Hong Kong

For culturally inclined travellers, Hong Kong provides plenty of opportunities to delve into the history and seek space in a unique cultural blend of old and new. So, don’t limit your Hong Kong itinerary to just sightseeing, shopping, and street food hopping. There’s certainly a lot more that it offers. From May 31-July 1, 2025, Hong Kong’s Intangible Cultural Heritage (ICH) Office will host the inaugural ‘Hong Kong ICH Month‘.

Hong Kong’s Intangible Cultural Heritage (ICH) Office will host the inaugural ‘Hong Kong ICH Month’

A month of carnivals, fun days, field trips, workshops, and seminar talks, which will be part of the ‘ICH Around Town‘. A time to immerse yourself in the city’s rich cultural heritage, one activity at a time. Over 80 performances and 60 interactive booths during the festival will enthral crowds. Be it a tour in six handpicked districts or the “Genesis and Spirit: Intangible Cultural Heritage Exhibition on Jiangxi’s Ganzhou Hakka Culture, there is so much to do and see.

In line with the Chinese Culture Promotion Series, the ICH promotes Chinese history through its many programmes giving tourists and the public the chance to learn about the intriguing Chinese culture. The buzzing city of Hong Kong beckons you to wear your dancing shoes, your most festive attire and be part of the city’s year-round vibrant festivities.

There are world-class events and even seasonal celebrations in the mix. So, there’s always something happening day in and day out in Hong Kong. Among the many unmissable events is the Sun Life Hong Kong International Dragon Boat Races happening from 7-8 June, 2025. Watch Victoria Harbour mystically transform into a space of cheer and celebrations as the adrenaline-fueled races return to the Tsim Sha Tsui East Promenade.

For carnival goers, the Brazil Meets Hong Kong, from June 20 to 29, 2025, held at AIA Vitality Park in Central, celebrates Brazilian culture with much pomp and glory. Expect a 10-day celebration of the South American nation featuring samba, reggae and other activities. The first-ever Brazilian carnival in Hong Kong may soon become the city’s annual event, blending the carnival fever with the city’s multicultural set-up.

Head over to Discover Hong Kongs calendar of cultural events, which you must bookmark to find so many options. But you shouldn’t miss: Canton Modern: Art and Visual Culture, 1900s-1970s, from 28 June-5 Oct, 2025, a 200-works exhibition depicting the Cantonese art and visual culture; Happy Wednesday- Music Festival, from 4 June-16 July, 2025, where you can groove to the best beats from across the globe along with global bites; Dance x Drama ‘Dance-to-know MULAN’, from May 16-July 27, 2025, a dance drama of Chinese ethnic performances across dynasties.

Hong Kong basks in its multicultural identity. It prides itself on being a destination where modern city life is embraced with the same fervour as ancient traditions are respected. The city offers a cultural landscape that is a melting pot of Cantonese customs, British colonial influences, and mainland Chinese elements.

With the iconic dragon boat race, Intangible Cultural Heritage (ICH), the Brazilian Carnival and a slew of art exhibitions and dance dramas, Hong Kong is a cultural haven that welcomes tourists from all over the world. The events highlight the culture of the land through the glocal lens. These are unmissable and there is truly something for every traveller. Make your travel plans now!

About Curly Tales

Curly Tales is India’s leading food, travel and lifestyle platform founded by Kamiya Jani in 2016 after her decade-long experience as a finance, sports and lifestyle journalist and TV anchor. Curly Tales is a platform that offers content to inspire and inform viewers with a focus on celebrating food, travel and unique experiences across India and the globe.

When planning for long-term goals, compounding plays a key role in helping your money grow. It works by generating returns not just on your initial investment but also on the returns already earned over time. While the idea is simple, the actual impact of compounding can be better understood with the help of numbers. That’s where a mutual fund compounding calculator comes in. It allows you to see how your investment could grow over the years and shows why starting early and staying invested can make a difference.

Let’s explore how this calculator works and how it can help you make more informed investing decisions.

Benefits of using a compounding calculator

What is a mutual fund compounding calculator

A mutual fund compounding calculator is an online tool that estimates the future value of a mutual fund investment based on three key inputs: the amount invested, the expected rate of return, and the investment duration. It uses the principle of compounding to project how your money could grow over time.

For example, if you invest Rs. 1 lakh in a mutual fund that gives an average annual return of 12%, over 10 years, the calculator shows how your investment can grow significantly, thanks to compounding. It also lets you compare different scenarios, like investing for 5 years vs. 15 years, to better understand the long-term potential of your money.

Why compounding matters in mutual fund investing

Compounding allows your investment to generate earnings, which are then reinvested to generate their own earnings. Over time, this snowball effect can lead to exponential growth. The longer your money stays invested, the greater the benefit of compounding.

A mutual fund compounding calculator helps you appreciate this growth visually. For example, investing Rs. 2 lakhs for 5 years at 10% returns may grow to about Rs. 3.2 lakhs. But keep that same investment for 15 years, and it can grow to over Rs. 8 lakhs. That’s the power of staying invested and compounding working in your favour.

How to use the calculator effectively

Using a mutual fund compounding calculator is simple and requires just three inputs:

1. Initial investment: This is your lump sum investment in the mutual fund.

2. Expected rate of return: You can use historical averages or conservative estimates for this.

3. Investment tenure: The number of years you plan to stay invested.

Once you enter these details, the calculator will show you the future value of your investment and how much of it comes from compounding. It’s a great way to set realistic expectations and plan your financial goals accordingly.

Benefits of using a compounding calculator

There are several advantages to using a mutual fund compounding calculator:

• Goal clarity: It helps you align your investment amount and duration with your financial goals.

• Informed decisions: By changing the input values, you can see how different choices affect your returns.

• Motivation to stay invested: Visualising long-term growth can encourage disciplined investing.

• Better financial planning: It acts as a starting point for building a solid investment strategy.

Whether youre investing for a child’s education, a home, or retirement, the calculator can show how small decisions made today can have a large impact tomorrow.

The role of consistency in compounding

Though this article focuses on lump sum investing, it’s worth noting that regular investing also benefits greatly from compounding. Consistent contributions amplify the compounding effect over time. Towards the end of your planning journey, tools such as a mutual fund SIP plan can help you stay on track and build a disciplined investment habit.

Conclusion

Compounding is one of the effective tools for growing your wealth over the long term, and a mutual fund compounding calculator makes it easier to see its impact. It’s a quick, visual way to understand how your money could grow over time and why time in the market matters more than timing the market.

Start early, stay invested in a Mutual fund SIP plan and use tools like this calculator to take control of your financial journey.

Mutual Fund investments are subject to market risks, read all scheme related documents carefully. 

What would you do for 8 perfectly crispy, golden fried chicken pieces at just INR369 If your answer is “Kuch Bhi Karenge,” then Wow! Chicken’s Wow! Wednesday is calling your name!

Wow! Chicken Launches ‘Wow Wednesday’ Nationwide to Boost Midweek Consumer Delight

Every Wednesday, Wow! Chicken dishes out an irresistible deal – 8 pieces of their signature fried chicken for only Rs 369. It’s a crunchy, juicy, and flavorful escape from the midweek slump – and honestly, a deal that’s hard to beat.

Whether you’re feeding your squad, sharing with family, or indulging solo, this weekday wonder is designed to delight your tastebuds without breaking your wallet. With its DVC tagline “Kuch Bhi Karenge,” the brand captures the lengths fried chicken fans are ready to go for this unbeatable offer – skipping chores, dodging meetings, or braving traffic – just to grab their midweek fix.

“Wow! Wednesday is our signature weekday celebration. It’s all about bringing excitement and incredible value right in the middle of the week,” said Murali Krishnan , CMO & Co-Founder, Wow! Momo Foods Pvt. Ltd. . “With our ‘Kuch Bhi Karenge’ campaign, we’ve tapped into the fun, crazy love people have for our fried chicken – and this offer reflects that energy perfectly.”

No codes. No coupons. Just pure fried chicken joy every Wednesday at all Wow! Chicken outlets nationwide.

Instagram Link : www.instagram.com/reel/DJ0xXi6TPav/igsh=NnF3aTRyZGFpeHY3.

So this week, skip the boring meals and bring home a bucket full of flavour. Because when the offer’s this good, youd be like “Kuch Bhi Karenge” for it! Available across all Wow! Chicken and Eats outlets and major delivery platforms like Zomato, Swiggy, and Wow! Eats,

Download the WOW! EATS App: 2wm.in/qv.

About Wow! Chicken
Wow! Chicken by Wow! Momo is India’s own homegrown fried chicken brand, crafted to suit local tastes with bold seasonings, crunch-loaded textures, and generous portions. Focused on quality, value, and delight, Wow! Chicken is redefining the fried chicken experience – one bite at a time.

AI-augmented Chandigarh University the state-capital-region of Lucknow is poised to redefine the educational landscape of Uttar Pradesh and neighbouring regions through its multidisciplinary education that combines personalised learning pathways, data-driven insights, immersive virtual reality, and real-world simulations.

An aerial view of Chandigarh University Lucknow Uttar Pradesh Campus; India’s First AI Augmented Multi -Disciplinary Campus

India’s next-gen futuristic university, Chandigarh University Uttar Pradesh – has incorporated a unique academic learning model in which the learning of AI has been immersed across the curriculum of all the programs that University is offering.

These new-age academic programs, consisting of 37 undergraduate and 13 postgraduate courses, have been designed to inspire, challenge, and empowers students to excel globally-not only in science and innovation, but also across diverse fields including engineering, management, sciences, liberal arts and humanities with engaging and interactive learning.

Industry-Aligned CSE Programs

Chandigarh University Uttar Pradesh has integrated AI into its engineering curriculum which will help students gain hands-on, real-world experience that deepens understanding and sharpens problem-solving skills through AI-powered simulations and virtual environments.

Giving priority to involve industry as a stakeholder to enhance student employability with industry collaborative programs in the futuristic and emerging fields, Chandigarh University Lucknow is offering five Computer Science Engineering (CSE) programs in collaboration with industry giants including Google, Microsoft, SAS and Quick Heal.

With this, Chandigarh University Lucknow has become the first university in the region to offer B Tech in Cloud Computing & Data Science in collaboration with tech-giant Google. Chandigarh University Lucknow is offering B Tech (CSE) AI &ML with world’s 2nd largest IT firm Microsoft. The university is also offering M Tech – CSE with AI and ML in collaboration with SAS – a global leader in AI and Machine Learning. In addition, in collaboration with top cyber security firm Quick Heal, Chandigarh University Lucknow is offering B Tech in Cyber Security. The university is also offering B Tech in CSE and B Tech in Information Technology.

AI-Integrated Engineering Programs

As AI is already being used extensively in most engineering fields, Chandigarh University Lucknow’s engineering programs stand out for their industry relevance and career prospects.

While the Civil Engineering (B Tech -CE) program focuses on infrastructure development and prepares graduates for roles in leading firms, specialised M Tech courses in Construction Technology and Management and Structural Engineering will equip students for leadership and advanced technical roles in the booming infrastructure sector.

The Mechanical Engineering (B Tech – Mechanical) program addresses core industries like automotive, aerospace, and manufacturing. Electronics and Communication Engineering (B Tech – ECE) prepares students for rapidly evolving fields such as telecommunications, IoT, and semiconductors. The Electrical Engineering (B Tech – EE) program covers power generation, renewable energy, automation, and smart grid technologies, with rising demand in electric vehicles and green energy sectors.

Biotechnology (B Tech – Biotech) is another fast-growing discipline offered at the Lucknow campus, catering to healthcare, pharmaceuticals, agriculture, and environmental science sectors.

AI-Enhanced Management Programs

AI is transforming business management education by delivering personalized, efficient, and immersive learning. AI-driven simulations and virtual reality offer hands-on experience in real-world scenarios, sharpening critical thinking and decision-making skills for management students.

To enhance the quality and industry relevance of its BBA and MBA programs, Chandigarh University Lucknow has signed strategic Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) with some of the world’s leading technology and consulting firms including IBM, KPMG, PwC, NSE, and Grant Thornton to bridge the gap between academic learning and practical application to help students excel in today’s competitive business environment.

As part of these collaborations, AI augmented Chandigarh University Lucknow currently offers 13 comprehensive undergraduate and postgraduate programs in Business Management. At the undergraduate level, the university is offering BBA(H)-Business Analytics and MBA-Global Business Management in collaboration KPMG, BBA Fintech + ACCA (International Accounting & Finance) in collaboration with Grant Thornton, MBA- Applied Finance in collaboration with PwC, MBA Fintech in collaboration with NSE Academy, MBA-Data Science & Al in collaboration with SAS and MBA Business Analytics in collaboration with IBM.

Apart from these collaborative programs, Chandigarh University Lucknow is also offering six management courses including BBA (Hons), BBA-DM (Hons), BBA – Branding & Advertising (Hons), MBA, MBA in Strategic Human Resources and MBA in Digital Marketing.

AI Immersed Programs in Computer Applications

In Computing, Chandigarh University Lucknow is offering Bachelor of Computer Applications (BCA) Hons in Data Science in collaboration with SAS. The University is also offering Master of Computer Applications (MCA) – AI & ML in collaboration with SAS.

Apart from the collaborative programs, Chandigarh University Lucknow is also offering BCA Hons, MCA and B.Sc. (Hons) in Animation, VFX & Gaming for creative tech enthusiasts.

Applied Sciences Programs for AI Era

AI is significantly advancing education in Applied Sciences by delivering personalized learning experiences tailored to individual student needs and learning styles. Chandigarh University Lucknow’s Applied Sciences courses have been designed to meet the demands of rapidly evolving industries in the AI driven world.

The B.Sc. (Hons.) in Data Science trains students in analytics, machine learning, and programming, opening doors to careers in finance, healthcare, and IT. The M.Sc. in Data Science advances these skills for senior roles in AI and big data.

The B.Sc. (Hons.) in Biotechnology prepares graduates for careers in pharmaceuticals, healthcare, and environmental sectors with research opportunities in cutting-edge fields like genetic engineering.

The B.Sc. (Hons.) in Forensic Science equips students to tackle crime scene analysis, digital forensics, and toxicology, addressing the growing need for forensic experts amid rising technological crimes.

AI-Driven Basic Sciences Programs

AI has the potential to revolutionize science education by enhancing teaching and learning processes across a wide range of disciplines. Chandigarh University Lucknow is offering foundational programs such as B.Sc. (Hons with Research) in Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics, as well as advanced postgraduate courses like M.Sc. in Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics.

In these programs, AI offers personalised instruction, real-time feedback, and interactive learning tools which help in deeper conceptual understanding and equip students with the skills needed for a technology-driven future.

AI-Powered Law Programs

As integration of AI into the legal profession is reshaping both the teaching and practice of law, Chandigarh University Lucknow has incorporated it into the curriculum for law programs in order to helps law graduates develop the technical literacy and critical thinking skills necessary for a data-driven legal marketplace.

Designed to meet the evolving demands of the legal profession, Chandigarh University Lucknow’s three-year LLB program provides foundational knowledge in constitutional, criminal, contract, and civil law.

The five-year integrated B.A. LL.B. (Hons) combines social sciences with professional law education, ideal for students starting immediately after Class 12. This program broadens understanding of law in its societal context, opening career paths in litigation, legal research, public policy, and legal journalism.

The five-year BBA LL.B. (Hons) merges business and legal studies, focusing on corporate law, governance, taxation, and commercial law.

Commerce and Pharmacy Programs

As commerce and financial management evolve with globalization and AI, Chandigarh University Lucknow offers a B Com with ACCA in collaboration with Grant Thornton, a global leader in financial advisory. The Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA) qualification, recognized worldwide, equips students with expertise in audit, taxation, and corporate finance. This integrated program combines ACCA credentials with Grant Thornton, giving graduates a competitive edge and global career opportunities in finance.

As AI-driven innovations are transforming drug discovery, patient care, and medication management, Chandigarh University Lucknow has integrated AI into pharmacy curricula to equip future professionals with knowledge and skills needed to thrive in an increasingly digital healthcare landscape.

Chandigarh University is offering B Pharma course designed to meet the rising demand for healthcare professionals in pharmaceuticals, clinical research, and healthcare services.

Liberal Arts & Psychology Programs

Chandigarh University Lucknow’s interdisciplinary B.A. (Hons) in Liberal Arts offers students a broad academic foundation across subjects like literature, philosophy, sociology, political science, and psychology.

The BA (Hons) in Psychology delves into human behaviour, mental health, and cognitive processes, covering branches like clinical, counselling, social, and organizational psychology.

AI augmented Mass Communication

Chandigarh University Lucknow’s Bachelor of Arts in Journalism and Mass Communication (BA-JMC) offers a comprehensive curriculum covering journalism, public relations, advertising and digital media to equip students for diverse roles such as journalists, news anchors, content creators, PR executives and digital strategists.

About Chandigarh University Uttar Pradesh (Lucknow)

Envisioned to foster a culture of sustainability and empower future global leaders, Chandigarh University, Uttar Pradesh, immerses 21st-century learners in a personalised and experiential learning experience, integrating an AI-powered academic model and a multidimensional, futuristic perspective on education. Our Uttar Pradesh campus carries forward the venerable legacy of more than a decade of Chandigarh University, Punjab, which has established itself as Indias No. 1 Private University and a torchbearer of groundbreaking pedagogy and research-driven innovation. The AI-augmented new campus offers a broad spectrum of industry-driven futuristic academic programs encompassing data-driven insights, virtual reality experiences, real-world simulations, corporate mentorship, international perspective, interdisciplinary research, cultivation of entrepreneurial spirit, and professional competencies. www.culko.in.

Hummel and Revenant esports are launching the first-ever sneaker collab in the Indian esports’ community. This sneaker design is a reflection of the gaming mindset. The flowing linework across the sneaker reflects the energy that travels from mind to body, the kind of spark every player feels before the game. The limited-edition sneaker will go live on Hummel.net.in on 06.06.2025 at 21:00 Hours IST.

Hummel | RNTX Launches Indias First-Ever Esports Sneaker Collab

“We are proud to partner with Revenant to bring the first ever esports sneaker collab in India, both teams worked with lot of passion to craft a shoe that is unique and captures the spirit of the game. We have many more exciting projects in pipeline across team sports & retail in India & SEA“, remarked Mr. Henrik Svenning, Group CCO, Hummel.

“This collaboration marks a historic moment for Indian esports and streetwear culture. Partnering with hummel-a brand known for its forward-thinking approach and deep-rooted legacy in sports-has been an incredibly rewarding experience. Their unwavering support and shared vision have helped us bring this one-of-a-kind sneaker to life, and we’re proud to set a new benchmark for what’s possible when esports and global sportwear truly unite,” said Mr Rohit Jagasia, CEO, Revenant Esports.

Hummel Corporate

Established in 1923, Danish sports brand hummel has a long history within the international sportswear industry. Headquartered in Aarhus, Denmark the hummel mission is to CHANGE THE WORLD THROUGH SPORT based on a unique Company Karma philosophy that strives to balance running a profitable business, while maintaining a high degree of social responsibility. hummel designs, produces and markets high quality clothes and sports equipment, as well as fashion and leisure sportswear for both adults and children. hummel is privately owned and part of the Thornico Group.

Chandigarh University, Uttar Pradesh, continues to break new ground in AI-augmented multidisciplinary education with a major milestone-its School of Pharmacy has received formal approval from the Pharmacy Council of India (PCI) for its Bachelor of Pharmacy (B. Pharma) programme. This development marks a significant step in establishing Uttar Pradesh as a forward-looking destination for pharmacy education.

Chandigarh University Uttar Pradesh Officials After Receiving the Approval Letter from Pharmacy Council of India for Kick Starting Programs in Pharmacy at CU UP Campus

The School of Pharmacy at CU Uttar Pradesh has been conceptualized with a future-ready educational model aligned with industry demands and driven by cutting-edge technology. The curriculum is designed to balance theoretical foundations with hands-on training, ensuring that students graduate as competent and industry-ready healthcare professionals. The Pharmacy Council of India has granted formal approval to Chandigarh University, Lucknow Campus to begin offering 60 seats in the Pharmacy course from the academic session 2025.

State-of-the-Art Infrastructure for Research-Driven Learning

The School of Pharmacy offers an infrastructure tailored for advanced research. Students actively participate in projects related to pharmacokinetics, clinical pharmacy, medicinal chemistry, and toxicology. The curriculum has been crafted in collaboration with international industry experts and academicians, enabling students to grasp both traditional and emerging subjects with clarity while sharpening their skills in line with global standards.

The availability of AI-powered tools and modern laboratories encourages experiential learning. Students also engage in internships, research assignments, and community-driven projects, making education at CU not only theoretical but deeply practical and immersive.

A Booming Sector with Expanding Opportunities

With the global pharmaceutical industry projected to grow at an estimated rate of 4.7% from 2024 to 2029-reaching a market size of approximately USD 1,454 billion-career prospects in pharmacy remain robust. Recognizing this trend, Chandigarh University has developed an ecosystem equipped with high-tech labs, experienced industry professionals, and collaborative learning environments to prepare a skilled and adaptable workforce.

Industry-Collaborated Education for Future-Ready Professionals

Students at the School of Pharmacy can pursue careers in diverse fields such as Clinical Research, Intellectual Property Management, Regulatory Affairs, Quality Control, and Medical Writing. The university also imparts regulatory training in Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP), Good Laboratory Practices (GLP), and Good Clinical Practices (GCP), ensuring graduates are prepared to work in highly regulated environments.

Chandigarh University, Uttar Pradesh, stands as a model of integrated education where learning, technology, and industry interface seamlessly. Students not only receive rigorous academic instruction but also benefit from industry training, internships, and research exposure, preparing them for a balanced and successful career.

The universitys AI-supported, modern campus in Unnao-backed by industry-aligned curriculum, advanced labs, and seasoned faculty-provides a solid academic foundation. Strategic partnerships with leading companies and government bodies further enhance student opportunities by offering essential skill training and diverse career pathways.

Academic Leadership at the Helm

The school is led by Prof. (Dr.) Amit Verma. Prof. Verma is accompanied by rich international, industry, and academic experience. Having more than 20 years of pharmaceutical education, research, and industrial experience, Prof. Verma has made notable contributions towards international collaborations, drug development plans, regulatory documentation, and innovation in pharmaceutical sciences. He has collaborated with Indias and the worlds premier institutions and pharmaceutical industries, providing his services in drug discovery, formulation science, regulatory affairs, clinical research and academic leadership. His passion for pharmacy education is evident in his strong desire for interactive learning, digital integration, research mentorship, and international academic collaborations.

Being the Indias first AI-enabled campus Chandigarh University Uttar Pradesh is committed to revolutionize education through modern technology. This smart campus offers AI-powered learning platforms, real-time simulation, virtual labs, that foster an environment of incubation, innovation and critical thinking. The university believe in quality professional education where the eminent faculty on roll are equipped with advanced pedagogy to produce pharmacy professionals to not only adept in their field but also competent in leveraging technology to enhance patient care and drug development. This initiative and commitment ensure our dedication to shape future-ready pharmacy leaders to meet healthcare industry requirement.

Backed with the legacy of Chandigarh University Mohali, students will get an opportunity for the international exposure through the collaborations with over 150 foreign universities, enriching their academic and cultural perspectives. Chandigarh University Uttar Pradesh is committed to nurturing competent and compassionate pharmacy professionals who can contribute meaningfully to the global healthcare ecosystem”.

About Chandigarh University Uttar Pradesh (Lucknow)

Envisioned to foster a culture of sustainability and empower future global leaders, Chandigarh University, Uttar Pradesh, immerses 21st-century learners in a personalised and experiential learning experience, integrating an AI-powered academic model and a multidimensional, futuristic perspective on education. Our Uttar Pradesh campus carries forward the venerable legacy of more than a decade of Chandigarh University, Punjab, which has established itself as Indias No. 1 Private University and a torchbearer of groundbreaking pedagogy and research-driven innovation. The AI-augmented new campus offers a broad spectrum of industry-driven futuristic academic programs encompassing data-driven insights, virtual reality experiences, real-world simulations, corporate mentorship, international perspective, interdisciplinary research, cultivation of entrepreneurial spirit, and professional competencies.

Website: www.culko.in.

DuDigital Global Limited (NSE: DUGLOBAL), India’s leading provider of visa and consular outsourcing services, is proud to announce the official inauguration of the Indian Consular Application Centre (ICAC) in Seoul, South Korea. The centre, launched in partnership with the Embassy of India in the Republic of Korea, will streamline the delivery of visa, passport, and consular services for Indian nationals and foreign applicants residing in South Korea.

H.E. Mr. Amit Kumar inaugurates ICAC Seoul with Mr. Shivaz Rai & Mr. Manoj Dharmani of DuDigital Global – advancing India-Korea consular and diplomatic ties

The opening ceremony was graced by H.E. Mr. Amit Kumar, Ambassador of India to the Republic of Korea, underscoring the growing strategic and people-to-people cooperation between the two nations.

Centre Details:
Address: 4th Floor, Namhan Building, 76-42, Hannam-Dong, Yongsan-Gu, Seoul, 04401, South Korea
Email: icac.seoul@dudigitalglobal.com
Helpline: +82-2202-35847
Website: duicac.dudigitalglobal.com/sk

Key Services Offered

• Indian Visa Application Services

• Passport Renewal and Related Services

• Consular Support for Indian Citizens
  ​

Operated and fully managed by DuDigital Global, the new ICAC offers a secure, technology-driven, and applicant-friendly experience-reinforcing India’s commitment to citizen services abroad.

Mr. Manoj Dharmani, Group CEO, DuDigital Global Limited, stated, “The launch of our new ICAC in Seoul is a proud moment for us. South Korea is a strategically important region, and we are committed to offering efficient, secure, and applicant-centric services that simplify travel and consular processes. This move aligns with our vision to empower global mobility and deliver excellence through innovation and reliability.”

Mr. Shivaz Rai, Director, DuDigital Global Limited, added, “Our partnership with the Indian Embassy in Seoul underscores DuDigital’s growing role as a trusted facilitator of global mobility. We are confident that this centre will bring convenience and professionalism to thousands of applicants while reinforcing people-to-people connections between India and South Korea.”

About DuDigital Global Limited

Founded in 2015, DuDigital Global Limited (NSE: DUGLOBAL) is a premier provider of visa, eVisa, and consular process management for governments and diplomatic missions across the globe.

• A team of 200+ professionals delivering user-centric services

• Official partner for Indian visa and consular services in South Korea, UAE, Bangladesh, and Thailand

• Partner agency for the Embassy of South Korea and the Korea Tourism Organization in India

• Developer of DuVerify, a digital document authentication system used by the Embassies of Georgia and South Korea in India

• A growing footprint across Asia and the Middle East

Move over dim sum and skyline selfies-Hong Kong’s hottest new attraction is furry, adorable, and already a national treasure. The city is riding a wave of “panda-mania” with the grand public debut of its first-ever giant panda twins, making headlines and capturing hearts around the world. As tourism rebounds post-pandemic, the debut of these cubs is powering a high-profile government-backed campaign dubbed “Pandastic Hong Kong,” a bold, city-wide strategy to revive and reimagine Hong Kong’s global tourism appeal.

Hong Kong is riding a wave of “panda-mania” with the grand public debut of its first-ever giant panda twins, making headlines and capturing hearts around the world

The panda twins, born last August to resident panda Ying Ying, made their first public appearance on Sunday, 16 February at Ocean Park, marking a major milestone for conservation, tourism, and public excitement. The cubs’ mother, Ying Ying, made history herself as the oldest first-time panda mother at nearly 19 years old, further fueling international attention.

While the pandas were temporarily known as “Elder Sister” and “Younger Brother,” a public naming contest was held, with the final names revealed in the first half of the year. The cubs are doing more than winning hearts-they’re reviving an entire economy.

Since the announcement of their debut, Ocean Park bookings have soared by 20%, with international visitors accounting for a staggering 75% of new reservations, according to Trip.com. With interest booming, Ocean Park now has premium panda-viewing sessions and tailor-made visitor experiences, transforming the park into a focal point of Hong Kong’s travel resurgence.

Ms Kamiya Jani, Editor-in-Chief of India’s leading food and travel platform Curly Tales, managed to get a glimpse of Hong Kong’s “panda-mania” when she visited Ocean Park with her daughter Ziana in March. The duo caught the adorable twin cubs, swinging on trees, munching bamboo, and nonchalantly going about their day. Unable to “bear” the cuteness overload at the park, the mother-daughter duo sportingly posed for selfies with AI pandas and took home panda souvenirs.

“It was absolutely magical to see pandas up close and personal – a whole family swinging, munching, and having the time of their lives. While daddy panda chilled in his own bachelor pad, the rest were a riot of cuteness! Watching them with Ziana made it even more special – her eyes lit up brighter than ever. A day we’ll always remember,” shares Ms Kamiya.

But the pandas aren’t just staying in the park, they’re taking over the city.

From panda-themed trains and metro stations to 3D-printed panda mailboxes, Hong Kong has launched an all-encompassing panda campaign. In collaboration with Hong Kong Post, 49 panda-themed mailboxes will roll out across districts, starting with Causeway Bay and the Southern District. Each 3D-printed design features landmarks and cultural motifs, encouraging visitors to explore the city through a panda-inspired lens.

A whimsical sculpture exhibition featuring 2,500 pandas has also been popping up around the city, while panda mascots are showing up at high-traffic zones including Hong Kong International Airport, Star Ferry Pier, and MTR stations, ensuring no visitor escapes the cuddly craze.

And there’s more to come.

In the lead-up to the 2025 Sun Life Hong Kong International Dragon Boat Races, the panda twins and their family will don traditional Tuen Ng costumes and make surprise appearances at the Avenue of Stars, offering a culturally rich, photogenic treat from 31 May to 8 June.

The year’s biggest celebration is slated for August, when the twins celebrate their first birthday as part of the city’s “Summer Viva” campaign. Expect exclusive Ocean Park events, global livestreams, birthday merchandise, and even a VIP “Panda Chauffeur” service. Tailor-made bundles-featuring hotels, park tickets, and F&B-will be on offer to enhance the tourist experience.

To keep panda fans engaged globally, the DiscoverHongKong.com portal has launched a dedicated “Panda Extravaganza” section with curated itineraries, allowing visitors to plan their very own “panda pilgrimage.”

With six giant pandas, one of the largest populations outside mainland China, Hong Kong is positioning itself not just as a travel destination, but as a “panda capital” in its own right. As the world’s eyes turn to these charming ambassadors, Hong Kong is proving that a little black-and-white magic can go a long way in driving tourism, boosting local pride, and making headlines across continents.

It’s official: Hong Kong is having a Pandastic year.

About Curly Tales
Curly Tales is India’s leading food, travel and lifestyle platform founded by Kamiya Jani in 2016 after her decade-long experience as a finance, sports and lifestyle journalist and TV anchor. Curly Tales is a platform that offers content to inspire and inform viewers with a focus on celebrating food, travel and unique experiences across India and the globe.

CoreStack, the global leader in AI-powered NextGen Cloud Governance, today announced the official launch of FinOps+, a transformational financial governance platform designed to redefine how enterprises and partners manage, optimize, and monetize their cloud investments. By combining intelligent automation, financial transparency, and strategic control, FinOps+ turns cloud complexity into competitive advantage.

CoreStack FinOps+ Capabilities – Fully embracing the FinOps Foundation Framework

As cloud investments surge-projected to exceed $1 trillion globally by 2030-organizations face a pivotal challenge: achieving financial accountability without sacrificing innovation. FinOps+ addresses this challenge head-on, equipping CIOs, CFOs, and cloud leaders with AI-native tools to govern cloud spend dynamically, drive operational efficiency, and align IT investments to strategic business outcomes.

“With FinOps+, were not just managing cloud costs-were transforming cloud finance into a strategic force multiplier.This platform empowers CIOs and CFOs to govern with precision, innovate without waste, and link every dollar of cloud spend directly to business value,” Ezhilarasan Natarajan, CEO, CoreStack.

Comprehensive Intelligence Across the FinOps Lifecycle

Built on the FinOps Foundation framework and aligned with FOCUS standards, CoreStack FinOps+ delivers full-lifecycle financial governance across all FinOps lifecycle phases, domains and capabilities:

• INFORM – Business-aware dashboards, real-time unit-level views, and AI-powered anomaly detection turn raw data into actionable intelligence.

• OPTIMIZE – AI identifies waste, enables rightsizing, and produces seasonality-aware forecasts, ensuring agility without budget surprises.

• OPERATE – Automated chargeback/showback, policy-integrated workflows, and multi-tier governance models empower scale with precision.
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Tailored for Enterprise Resilience and Partner Growth

FinOps+ is purpose-built and future-ready for tomorrows AI infused multi-cloud world:

• Enterprises gain unified cost visibility across AWS, Azure, GCP, OCI, and SaaS-plus insight into emerging AI workloads including OpenAI, Bedrock, and Azure AI-to govern innovation spend with confidence.

• Partners benefit from multi-tenant management, margin optimization, automated rerating, and FinOps-as-a-Service enablement-allowing them to scale revenue without expanding overhead.

“CoreStack FinOps+ gave us powerful visibility and cost control across our cloud landscape. Weve reduced onboarding time by 70%, eliminated waste, and created entirely new revenue opportunities through FinOps-as-a-Service,”Anthony Bonetti, Cloud Program Manager, ConRes.

Discover the Future of Financial Cloud Governance

Explore how CoreStack FinOps+ can transform your cloud financial operations at: corestack.io/finops.

The digital world depends upon data centers and the data centers and server rooms need continuous supply of power to function efficiently. This is where the Power Distribution Unit (PDU) comes into picture serving as the backbone of reliable power management. PDUs ensure that servers, networking devices, and other vital equipment receive uninterrupted and safe power supply.

Netracks Power Distribution Units: The Backbone of Reliable Power Management in Data Centers

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