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Naam Ki Nahi, Kaam Ki Medicine: How Truemeds is Revolutionizing Affordable Healthcare in India

In todays world, the power of choice is often seen as a given. We have numerous options for groceries, clothing, and homes-the essentials we call “roti, kapda, makaan.” But when it comes to something as crucial as healthcare, particularly choosing the right medicine, the options become limited, especially when the focus is on affordability and brand name.

Truemeds, Founders, Mr. Akshat Nayyar & Dr. Kunal Wani

While we have access to various apps for purchasing medicines and health essentials, very few offer the combination of high-quality alternatives at affordable prices. Enter Truemeds, a platform that is reshaping the way we approach healthcare and offering real, practical solutions for those struggling with the financial burden of chronic illness.

Truemeds: Changing the Game in Healthcare Access
Truemeds, co-founded by Akshat Nayyar and Kunal Wani, aims to empower patients by providing affordable, high-quality substitute medicines. With over 1.1 crore active app users and 2.2 crore website visitors annually, Truemeds has become a trusted name in India’s healthcare ecosystem. The platform leverages an advanced algorithm to scan over 1.8 lakh pharmaceutical products, recommending the best-value alternatives and helping users save up to 51% on their medications without compromising on quality as these medicines are sourced from top 1% of pharmaceutical manufacturers in the country.

The Financial Strain of Chronic Illness
Living with a chronic illness is not just a physical and emotional challenge-it’s also a financial one. In India, where health insurance rarely covers the full cost of medicines, the financial burden can be overwhelming. For individuals with conditions like diabetes, hypertension, asthma, and arthritis, up to 30% of their income is often spent on medical expenses, making the question of affordability critical.

The reality is stark: about 80% of India’s population relies on their direct income to pay for healthcare, leaving many vulnerable to financial strain. While government measures like tax law amendments for senior citizens provide some relief, they still fall short in addressing the larger gap in accessible healthcare. Programs like Ayushman Bharat, which aim to provide financial protection through health insurance to economically weaker sections, have made significant strides in improving access to healthcare. However, the sheer scale of India’s population and the gaps in implementation mean that a considerable portion of the population remains underserved.

Affordable Substitute Medicines: The Solution
In the face of these challenges, affordable substitute medicines offer a vital lifeline. These alternatives, often overshadowed by branded drugs, provide the same therapeutic benefits at a fraction of the cost. Just like choosing a high-quality affordable product that performs on par with the branded version, substitute medicines offer identical efficacy without the hefty price tag.

However, misconceptions persist. Many people equate lower costs with lower quality, and pharmacies often make accessing substitutes difficult due to pricing structures and limited availability. Its a bit like choosing a less popular food item-you may hesitate to opt for it, fearing it wont be of a good quality as well, even when it has exactly the same contents.

Truemeds: Empowering Informed Decisions
This is where Truemeds makes a difference. By offering high-quality, affordable substitute medicines that are sourced from the top 1% pharmaceutical manufacturers in the country, the platform gives users the tools they need to make informed decisions. With over 30 lakh free doctor consultations and a proprietary algorithm that scans a vast range of medicines, Truemeds ensures that users can confidently choose the best alternatives for their health needs.

Building Trust Through Accessibility and Convenience
Truemeds isn’t just about savings-it’s about reliability and convenience. The platform has built a robust delivery infrastructure, including 9 warehouses and a central procurement hub, guaranteeing timely and accurate delivery. With plans to open 15 new fulfillment centers in 2025, Truemeds is ensuring that its growing user base across India can access healthcare with ease.

Making a Real Impact
In FY 2023-2024, Truemeds users saved ₹132 crore by switching to substitute medicines, and an additional ₹83 crore through exclusive coupons and offers. This is not just about saving money-its about enabling people to reinvest those savings into better health and a higher quality of life.recurring savings .

Truemeds: A Partner in Healthcare Accessibility
Much like the Government of India’s “Jan Aushadhi” initiative, Truemeds is playing a vital role in making healthcare more affordable and accessible. By emphasizing quality over brand names, the platform is helping millions of people make better healthcare choices without the financial burden.

With its tagline, “Naam ki Nahi, Kaam ki Medicine,” Truemeds is encouraging a shift in mindset. Just as we prioritize value over brand names in other aspects of our lives, Truemeds is empowering people to do the same with their healthcare choices.

As Truemeds continues to innovate and expand, it remains a trusted partner for millions, helping them navigate the complex world of healthcare with confidence, affordability, and peace of mind, changing the way India buys medicines.

Axis Max Life Unveils Smart Term Plan Plus, Offering upto 2x Return of Premium

  • Women-Centric Features: Tailored benefits such as a Lifeline Plus, Special Premium discount and Maternity cover

  • Double Your Premium Back: Get 2x of your total premiums paid as Special Exit Value

Axis Max Life Insurance (“Axis Max Life“/ “Company“) has announced the launch of the Axis Max Life Smart Term Plan Plus (UIN: 104N127V01), a non-linked, non-participating, individual pure-risk life insurance plan designed to address diverse needs and life stages, with coverage tailored for customers’ needs. It offers a benefit to receive up to 200% of the total premium, paid-back as a special exit value with no additional premium to be paid to avail this benefit.

The plan also offers women-centric features tailored to the unique requirements of this customer segment. It includes a maternity cover benefit that safeguards against pregnancy complications and also covers the new-born for congenital anomalies for upto 3 years of birth. It offers Lifeline Plus benefit that allows the female Life Insured to increase the coverage in case of her spouses death for upto 50% of Base Sum Assured, or Rs. 50 lakhs (whichever is lower). Most significantly, the plan offers a 15% discount on premiums for female policyholders compared to male policyholders. Moreover, salaried females are eligible for an additional 15% discount on the first year premium which can be up to total discount of 27.75% on first year premium.

Prashant Tripathy, Managing Director and CEO, Axis Max Life, comments, “While awareness of term insurance is increasing, its penetration in India remains significantly low, leaving a substantial protection gap for many families. The Axis Max Life Smart Term Plan Plus is designed to address this critical need by offering affordable and accessible protection to a wider segment of the population. With its flexible options and competitive pricing, the plan is an attractive and budget-friendly choice, particularly for young customers. I am confident that by making term insurance more accessible and affordable with this plan, we can play a crucial role in bridging the protection gap and building a more financially secure India.”

Key Features of the Axis Max Life Smart Term Plan Plus (subject to policy terms and conditions):

  • Rebalancing cover: One of the variant (rebalancing cover) of the plan offers auto rebalance of Life cover Sum Assured and Accidental Death Benefit (ADB) cover Sum Assured.

  • Multiple Plan Options: The policy includes unique variants, such as “Return of Premium,” “Early ROP Plus,” “Smart Cover,” and “Whole Life Cover,” each designed to address specific customer needs.

  • Special Exit Value: Policyholders can receive up to 200% of the Total Premiums Paid back (excluding GST) from the 30th policy year onwards, ensuring higher value at the point of exit.

  • Smart Cover: Designed for families with young children, this feature provides 1.5X coverage for the first 15 years, helping ensure more robust protection during the early years of financial responsibility.

  • Whole Life Cover: Offers coverage until the age of 100 years, providing policyholders with long-term financial security, regardless of when the claim occurs.

  • Income Protection Cover: Option to receive monthly income payouts in the event of death, available as either level income payout or inflation-proof payout.

  • 15% Discount for Salaried Individuals: The plan offers a 15% discount on the first-year premium for all salaried professionals, making it more accessible for a wider range of customers.

  • Inbuilt Cover Continuance Benefit: Flexibility to defer the due premium for a period of up to 12 months from the due date of first unpaid premium, while maintaining the full risk cover under the base plan and attached riders (if any).

The Axis Max Life Smart Term Plan Plus, which has 7 variants, meets the rising demand for adaptable financial security in India. Despite growing awareness, only 31% of urban Indians have term insurance (Axis Max Life IPQ 6.0 Survey) revealing a protection gap. This plan, with its flexible options, empowers individuals to create a safety net for their families, aligning with Axis Max Lifes commitment to financial empowerment.

About Axis Max Life Insurance Limited

Axis Max Life Insurance Limited, formerly known as Max Life Insurance Company Ltd., is a Joint Venture between Max Financial Services Limited (“MFSL“) and Axis Bank Limited. Axis Max Life Insurance offers comprehensive protection and long-term savings life insurance solutions through its multi-channel distribution, including agency and third-party distribution partners. It has built its operations over two decades through a need-based sales process, a customer-centric approach to engagement and service delivery and trained human capital. As per the annual audited financials for FY2023-24, Axis Max Life Insurance has achieved a gross written premium of INR 29,529 Cr.

About India Protection Quotient
The India Protection Quotient (IPQ) is a financial study conducted by Axis Max Life Insurance Ltd in association with KANTAR. It measures the financial preparedness in urban India against an unforeseen future. Since the last 6 years, Axis Max Life has chartered Indias protection journey and captured the financial sentiments of the nation. An increase in IPQ scores signal our countrys increasing preparedness.

For more information, please visit the company website at www.maxlifeinsurance.com

Immerso and Everdome Partner to Drive Innovation in the Metaverse Through AI-Powered Experiences

Immerso, an Eros Innovation company- home to Eros Media and Eros Now, and a global leader in AI innovation and intellectual property (IP), has joined forces with Everdome, pioneers in creating interactive metaverse experiences, to revolutionize digital entertainment.

https://www.newsvoir.com/images/article/image1/31013_Immerso_image.PNG

Immerso and Everdome Partner to Drive Innovation in the Metaverse Through AI-Powered Experiences

The partnership combines Immerso’s exceptional IP portfolio, featuring an extensive library of over 12,000 film titles, with Everdome’s immersive technology. Together, they aim to transform how audiences engage with entertainment in the digital era.

Backed by Eros Innovation, Immerso brings unparalleled resources to the table. Eros Media World boasts a 30% market share in the Indian film industry, selling 2.7 billion tickets annually and reaching a global audience in the billions. This partnership unlocks the potential to become the world’s largest film market for metaverse engagement.

Jeremy Lopez, CEO of Everdome, commented, “This partnership propels Everdome’s vision to merge the metaverse with AI tools and intellectual property, setting the stage for the creation of interactive, metaverse-native IP experiences for brands on a global scale. With nearly 50 years of Bollywood history under their belt and a strong commitment to the metaverse and immersive computing, Immerso is the perfect partner as Everdome steps into its next chapter.”

Swaneet Singh, CEO of Immerso added, “We firmly believe in the transformative potential of virtual experiences and Web3 in reshaping the way users connect. By combining immersive experiences with AI-powered hybrid content and user-generated creation, we’re opening up new possibilities – and we are thrilled to be at the forefront of this innovation alongside Everdome.”

Immerso is uniquely positioned to lead large-scale innovation in AI, entertainment, and the metaverse. As one of the first AI Intellectual Property (AIIP) companies, Immerso owns over a trillion AI tokens and has trained models across all LLM platforms. This foundation, coupled with initiatives such as establishing India’s first AI Park and a billion-dollar investment in a Malaysian AI park and film studio, showcases Immersos commitment to pushing the boundaries of digital experiences.

Everdome, recognized for its expertise in creating immersive and accessible digital experiences, is dedicated to bringing real use cases and larger audiences to the metaverse. With a proven track record of collaborations with global brands like the Alpine Web3, and Binance Fan Token Everdome is well-versed in bringing established IPs to life in new and engaging ways.

With an initial focus on integrating Indian cinemas vast library of films, stars, directors, and influencers into immersive virtual worlds, together, Immerso and Everdome will offer audiences entirely new ways to connect with entertainment.

This collaboration marks a significant step toward a future where AI, IP, and immersive technology converge to transform how the world interacts with storytelling and creativity. It sets a new standard for connectivity and engagement in the metaverse and establishes a framework for a thriving creator economy. Immerso and Everdome will offer audiences entirely new ways to connect with entertainment.

The future of the metaverse is driven by collaboration, and this partnership unlocks the potential to become one of the world’s largest film markets for metaverse engagement, revolutionizing how users view, engage with, and interact with traditional media in an immersive digital world.

#ImagineTheMetaverseDifferently

About Immerso AIIP Limited
Immerso AIIP Limited is a global leader in the media and entertainment industry. With a rich history dating back to 1977, the company has consistently pushed the boundaries of innovation and creativity.

Immerso AIIP owns a vast library of over 12,000 film titles, commanding a 30% market share over the past two decades. This extensive catalogue forms the foundation for Eros Now, the companys streaming platform with an impressive 250 million registered users.

Recognizing the transformative power of artificial intelligence, Immerso is focused on pioneering the development of AI-driven content creation tools. Immerso has amassed over a trillion AI tokens, used to train sophisticated language models (SLM and LLM) that empower creators to build the next generation of immersive experiences.

Immerso AIIP is committed to fostering a thriving creator economy on Web 3, leveraging its vast IP library and AI capabilities to unlock new possibilities for content creation and distribution.

About Everdome
Everdome builds future themed metaverse experiences to provide creators, brands, individuals and businesses with immersive, interactive spaces to collaborate on the creation and enjoyment of shared digital experiences.

Launched in 2022, Everdome uses blockchain, advanced real-time 3D creation tools such as UE5, spatial computing and cryptocurrency to build, run and fuel their project, creating a platform to combine metaverse-on-demand tooling with engaging features and high quality environments.

Kaivalyadhama Hosts Successful National Conference on Sattvic Ahaar in Mumbai

Kaivalyadhama, a renowned institution for Yoga and holistic health, successfully hosted a national conference on Sattvic Ahaar in Mumbai on February 1, 2025. The conference brought together leading experts in holistic health, Yoga, Naturopathy, Ayurveda, and modern nutrition to discuss the transformative power of Sattvic food principles. The conference was inaugurated by Padma Shri Awardee Chef Sanjeev Kapoor and BMC Commissioner Shri Bhushan Gagrani, IAS.

Mr Subodh Tiwari, CEO, Kaivalyadhama felicitates BMC Comissioner Shri Bhushan Gagrani, IAS and Chef Sanjeev Kapoor at the inauguration of National Conference: Sattvic Ahaar

Chef Sanjeev Kapoor emphasized on the importance of home cooked meals, urging delegates to eat local, seasonal and fresh food in moderation. BMC Commissioner, Shri Gagrani highlighted the fact that we are what we eat and how food can be our medicine.

The conference delved into the science behind Sattvic nutrition, exploring its profound impact on mental and emotional well-being. Derived from ancient teachings of Yoga, Naturopathy, and Ayurveda, a Sattvic diet emphasises natural, wholesome, and plant-based foods that promote purity and calmness in the mind and body.

The conference featured keynote speeches and panel discussions on topics such as “Sattvic Ahaar in Modern Times” and “Sattvic Ahaar and Mental Health” by experts like Dr. Kushan Shah, Dr. Harish Shetty, Mr. Tejinder Singh Sabarwal, Ms. Deepali Mehta, Ms. Dimple Jangda, Dr. Santosh Pandey and Dr. Gayatri Gohil.

A unique feature of the conference was “Yogi Chef” – a sattvic cooking contest which saw enthusiastic participation with innovative healthy recipes judged by Chef Kaviraj. The afternoon was energized by a laughter riot by Dr. Mukesh Gautam, a renowned Kavi and stand up artist.

“We are thrilled to have hosted this successful conference, which brought together like-minded individuals to explore the transformative power of Sattvic Ahaar,” said Shri Subodh Tiwari, CEO, Kaivalyadhama. “We hope that the insights and knowledge shared during the conference will inspire individuals to adopt a more balanced and holistic approach to health and wellness.”

The conference was attended by over 500 delegates, who engaged with the speakers and networked with like-minded individuals. The key takeaway was to adopt a mindful approach to nutrition: Eat local, seasonal, and balanced food, stay hydrated, exercise regularly, and listen to your bodys needs to nourish and heal it.

About Kaivalyadhama

Founded in 1924 by the visionary Swami Kuvalayananda ji, Kaivalyadhama is one of the world’s oldest yoga institutes, seamlessly blending ancient wisdom with modern scientific research. Our commitment to Patanjali’s Ashtanga Yoga principles allows us to showcase yogas multifaceted benefits for holistic well-being, making our institute a beacon of knowledge and practice in the realm of yoga.

Rangsons Aerospace and Oversat to Sign Strategic Partnership at Aero India 2025

Rangsons Aerospace (RAPL) and Oversat are set to formalize their collaboration at Aero India 2025, marking a significant step in advancing satellite communication (Satcom) technology. This partnership focuses on developing Luneberg lens-based multibeam antennas-cutting-edge solutions designed to track multiple Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellites simultaneously, addressing critical connectivity gaps in Maritime, Land Mobile, and Aero applications.

With the rapid deployment of LEO satellite constellations by global players such as OneWeb, SpaceX, Telesat, Rivada, and Amazon, the demand for next-generation ground-based infrastructure has surged. While LEO satellites offer cost-effectiveness, lower latency, and higher data capacity compared to traditional Geosynchronous Earth Orbit (GEO) satellites, existing ground-based antenna systems remain outdated and inefficient. Most rely on bulky, single-satellite-tracking parabolic designs, creating a bottleneck in Satcom adoption.

Recognizing this challenge, Rangsons Aerospace and Oversat are pioneering a solution with advanced multibeam antenna technology, enabling seamless connectivity across multiple satellites in real-time. This initiative is expected to revolutionize Satcom capabilities for diverse sectors, including defense, aviation, and commercial enterprises.

Mr. Pavan Ranga, CEO, Rangsons Aerospace

“As the satellite communication landscape evolves rapidly, the need for advanced, scalable ground infrastructure has never been greater. Our partnership with Oversat is a step toward bridging this critical gap by enabling seamless, high-speed connectivity across industries. With innovations like multi-beam antenna technology, we are not just addressing current limitations but shaping the future of SATCOM-one that is more resilient, efficient, and accessible for diverse applications across land, sea, and air. At Aero India 2025, we look forward to showcasing how Rangsons Aerospace is driving this transformation.” says Pavan Ranga, Managing Director, Rangsons Aerospace.

Alongside the signing of this landmark partnership, Rangsons Aerospace will showcase its state-of-the-art capabilities in Avionics, Electronic Warfare (EW) PODS, and Airborne Thermal Management. The company will also present its High-Speed Point-to-Point and Point-to-Multipoint High-Capacity Networked Data Links, along with Ku and Ka-band SATCOM-on-the-move (SOTM) solutions tailored for defense and commercial applications.

Visitors to Aero India 2025 can explore these innovations at Hall H, where Rangsons Aerospace will exhibit its latest advancements, reinforcing its commitment to shaping the future of aerospace and defense technology.

About Rangsons

Rangsons is a diversified business conglomerate based in Mysuru, India, and a part of the NR Group, which was founded in 1948. The group operates across multiple sectors, including Defence and Aerospace, Education, Infrastructure, Agriculture, and Healthcare. Rangsons serves a wide range of clients, both domestically and internationally, collaborating with prestigious organizations such as ISRO, Boeing, and various branches of the Indian Defence and Aerospace sector. The group is dedicated to leveraging technology to develop innovative solutions that address the critical challenges of a developing economy. Its flagship company, N. Ranga Rao & Sons, is a dominant player in the Indian incense industry, best known for its iconic brand, Cycle Pure Agarbathi.

HRH Prince Edward, Duke of Edinburgh, Visits The British School New Delhi

The British School New Delhi welcomed The Duke of Edinburgh, HRH Prince Edward, on Monday, 3 February 2025. His Royal Highness visited the school as patron of The International Award for Young People (IAYP), part of The Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award Foundation. Instituted in 1956, the awards aim to help young people develop key life skills and achieve their full growth potential. HRH Prince Edward has played a leadership role in the award’s development for four decades.

The school Director, Vanita Uppal OBE, presents HRH Prince Edward with a special memento of his late father HRH Prince Philip’s visit to The British School in 1983

Students from schools across India were invited to The British School New Delhi to present their IAYP projects to His Royal Highness. The Duke enjoyed interacting with students and seeing firsthand the positive impact they have made on the wider community through their IAYP work. HRH also enjoyed the music and dance performances by students of The British School New Delhi.

Vanita Uppal OBE, Director of The British School, commented, ”It is my honour and privilege to welcome His Royal Highness, Prince Edward, Duke of Edinburgh, to The British School to celebrate the programme he has championed for four decades. The British School adopted the awards in 2007 and over the years I have watched countless students undertake projects that combine service, learning and leadership as part of the programme. Having His Royal Highness hear directly from students their stories, their journey and the impact they have made was very special indeed.”

According to Kapil Bhalla, National Director of the International Award for Young People, India, ”We are honoured to have His Royal Highness The Duke of Edinburgh, witness firsthand the transformative power of the Award in India at The British School in Delhi. The Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award inspires young people to challenge themselves, serve their communities, and develop skills that last a lifetime. Hearing young people share their experiences with His Royal Highness highlights the profound impact of The Award Programme, and we remain committed to ensuring more young people across India have access to this life-changing opportunity. The Award is open to all young people, and we encourage them to take the challenge, develop new skills, and become #WorldReady.”

IAYP has been active in India since 1962, empowering thousands of young individuals to gain invaluable experiences beyond the classroom. Delivered in more than 100 centres across the country, young people in India join more than a million of their peers across 130 countries taking on the challenge of the award each year.

About The British School New Delhi

The British School New Delhi is an inclusive, not-for-profit international school located in the heart of the diplomatic area of New Delhi. Founded in 1963 by the then British High Commissioner and his wife, the award winning school offers high quality education to British, expatriate and local families by drawing on the best facets of a rich and culturally diverse community. In 2018, the school was awarded the Top British International School of the Year and more recently, has been rated as one of the Top 3 Private Schools in India and the Top 150 Private Schools worldwide for the second consecutive year.

Bollywood Stars Blazed the Track at Dubai Autodrome for ‘DSBK Middle East Championship’

Dubai hosted an electrifying fusion of speed and stardom as the ‘DSBK Middle East Championship‘ took center stage at the iconic Dubai Autodrome Racing Circuit on February 2nd, 2025. For the first time ever, some of Bollywood’s biggest celebrities swapped the red carpet for racing helmets, delivering an adrenaline-pumping showdown like never before.

DSBK – Middle East Championship 24-25 Dubai Autodrome

Special guests of honour from UAE included Rizwan Sajan, Yaqoob Al Ali, Dr. Bu Abdullah, Sanjay Bector, and Yousuf Mohammed.

Bollywood favorites such as Arbaaz Khan, Sohail Khan, Vivek Oberoi, Gauahar Khan and Zaid Darbar among others, participated in this high-octane motorsport extravaganza to showcase their racing skills. The event quickly gained traction in the country, igniting interest for its unique blend of Bollywood glamour and the thrill of superbike racing.

DSBK – Middle East Championship 24-25 Dubai Autodrome

As the UAEs premier superbike championship, DSBK Racing had carved a niche for itself in the region’s motorsport scene. The event offered a chance to experience edge-of-the-seat racing action, family-friendly activities, and a seamless experience with free entry and parking, ensuring inclusivity for all visitors. Teams participating in the event included BNW, owned by Vivek Oberoi and Ankur Agrawal; Dugasta, owned by Tauseef Khan; VME, owned by Yusuf Mohammed; Speed Merchant, owned by Ameer Merchant; Petro Solutions, owned by Matin Ahmed; and IFCM, owned by Abdu Rozik.

Beyond the high-speed action, the event boasted a variety of entertainment options, including live DJ performances, a dedicated children’s play zone, a diverse range of food trucks, an interactive fan zone, and exclusive meet-and-greet opportunities with racers, influencers, and celebrities.

DSBK Racing’s Founder and celebrated racer Nasir Syed, along with Co-founder Abdul Samee shared their vision for the championship and said, “The DSBK Middle East Championship was more than just a race; it was a movement to promote responsible riding and nurture motorsport culture in the region. Our aim was to establish DSBK Racing as a marquee event on the Middle East’s motorsport calendar.“

In a major announcement, DSBK Racing also unveiled two groundbreaking initiatives. The DSBK Racing Academy, UAE’s first-ever superbike training academy, was established to cultivate the next generation of racing talent through structured training programs for aspiring riders. Additionally, DSBK Racing committed to fostering a passionate community of riders, families, and motorsport enthusiasts, offering an experience that extended beyond races to include education and entertainment. The next two race dates are set for 5th April 2025 and 19th April 2025.

About DSBK Racing
DSBK Racing is the leading superbike racing organization in the United Arab Emirates, established to bridge the gap in the region’s motorsport landscape. With a commitment to delivering world-class racing experiences, DSBK Racing provides a platform for riders of all skill levels to showcase their talent and passion for the sport. The organization is dedicated to reigniting the thrill of superbike racing in the UAE, fostering a vibrant community of enthusiasts, and setting new benchmarks in motorsport entertainment.

Website: www.dsbk.ae

Aqaba to Host the World’s Biggest B2B Congress for Destination Weddings in October 2025

The Aqaba Special Economic Zone Authority (ASEZA) and the Jordan Tourism Board (JTB) announced that Aqaba, Jordan has been chosen as the next destination to host the prestigious 11th Annual Destination Wedding Planners (DWP) Congress. The announcement was made during a press conference that took place in Aqaba, Jordan today, in the presence of local, regional and international media representatives.

Officials from The Aqaba Special Economic Zone Authority (ASEZA), the Jordan Tourism Board (JTB) and QnA announcing the 2025 DWP Congress

The DWP Congress, organized by QNA International, recognized as the world’s largest B2B platform for the destination wedding industry, will take place from October 7th to 9th, 2025 and is expected see the participation of over 500 attendees from more than 70 countries.

His Excellency Eng. Hamza Haj Hasan, Deputy Chief Commissioner, Commissioner for Economic Development and Tourism of ASEZA, and Mr. Sidh NC, Managing Director, QnA International, signed the partnership agreement alongside His Excellency Dr. Abdul Razzaq Arabiyat, Managing Director of the Jordan Tourism Board. Also in presence at the press conference were the Official Venue, Ayla Oasis, and the Official Hotel, Hyatt Regency Aqaba Ayla who are coming together to organise this prestigious event in Aqaba.

The Congress, previously hosted in some of the worlds most coveted destinations such as Athens, Mauritius, Florence, Phuket, Los Cabos, Dubai, Bali, Rhodes, Doha, and Victoria Falls, is poised to showcase Aqaba as a prime wedding destination. It promises exceptional hospitality, rich cultural heritage, exquisite cuisine, stunning landscapes, and unparalleled, unforgettable, and intriguing experiences.

Commenting on this momentous occasion, His Excellency Mr. Hamzah Haj Hasan, said, “We are very happy that Aqaba has been chosen as host city for this prestigious congress, competing for many months with prominent international destinations. Working with our stakeholders from both the public and private sector, we were able to tip the balance towards Aqaba. Holding this congress in Aqaba is a testament of the city’s growing status as a global destination, aligning perfectly with the newly launched 2024-2028 Strategic Plan to enhance tourism, attract investment, and promote sustainable growth. Hosting the Destination Wedding Planners Congress showcases our commitment to positioning Jordan in general, and Aqaba in specific, as a premier hub for high-value events, and we are grateful for the collaboration with our partners in making this vision a reality. Aqaba is blessed with the unparalleled natural beauty of sun, sea, and sand, setting the stage for making every wedding an unforgettable experience.“

Managing Director of Jordan Tourism Board, Dr. Abdulrazzaq Arabiyat, stated that, “Wedding tourism is one of the key sectors supporting the tourism industry and the national economy, thanks to Jordan’s unique offerings, with locations such as the Dead Sea, Petra, and Wadi Rum, along with advanced hotels and infrastructure, Jordan is an ideal destination for luxurious weddings on local, regional, and global levels. These attractions provide a remarkable experience for couples and their guests.”

“The tourism board is working to promote wedding tourism through innovative approaches that focus on providing a comprehensive experience for visitors, blending various types of tourism. This strategy enhances the length and value of tourists stays. This tourism segment highlights Jordan as a unique destination for celebrations, thanks to the professional services that meet international standards. The tourism board is preparing to launch promotional campaigns as part of the National Tourism Strategy for 2025, aiming to spotlight Jordan as a prime destination for wedding tourism, support the local tourism sector, and create job opportunities for young Jordanians,” he added.

Managing Director of QNA International, the event organizers, Sidh NC, said, “We are thrilled to present the global wedding community the hidden allure of Aqaba in our 11th Annual. Since the past decade, we have a track record of successfully positioning the proposed wedding destinations on the global wedding canvas, and we are confident that the upcoming annual will offer our attendees yet another unique wedding destination that they have been looking for. Through this platform, we have built valuable business relationships, celebrated achievements within the wedding industry and we are committed to delivering an unforgettable experience with a destination like Aqaba as our gracious host. The Congress will allow global wedding professionals to experience the grandeur and elegance of Jordanian weddings and the warmth of their unparalleled hospitality.“

According to Research and Markets, The Wedding Services Market grew from USD 267.08 billion in 2023 to USD 284.87 billion in 2024. It is expected to continue growing at a CAGR of 7.02%, reaching USD 429.56 billion by 2030. Looking forward, the global destination weddings market is expected to reach USD 320.3 billion by 2033, exhibiting a growth rate (CAGR) of 25.11% during 2025-2033. This growth reflects the increasing popularity of destination weddings and highlights the potential for Jordan to capture a significant portion of this lucrative market.

Weddings in Jordan are a hallmark of grandeur, opulence and sheer elegance. As the year 2025 marks the 11th year for the DWP Congress, this year’s congress is set to host the world’s finest luxury wedding planners, biggest celebrity wedding planners, royalty specialists & destination wedding experts, alongside an extensive spread of creative partners and wedding suppliers – from extravagant venues to exquisite hotels, exclusive destinations, couture designers, photography partners, jewellery partners, cake designers, and much more from 70+ countries coming to Jordan for the upcoming event.

For more information, please visit destinationweddingcongress.com.

Opulent Art Gallery Triumphs with a Successful Exhibition at the Prestigious Travancore House

Opulent Art Gallery announces the resounding success of “Between Yesterday and Tomorrow” an exclusive exhibition of art and artefacts. The event took place between the 18th and the 27th of January at the luxurious Travancore House of India’s capital city. The showcase featured works from art maestros of the yesteryears who are celebrated even today, as well as contemporary artists who hope to find their names etched in the annals of art history. The event welcomed an enthusiastic crowd of art lovers, collectors and industry experts, who engaged with the diverse range of pieces on display.

L to R Bharadwaj Mathukumilli and Hormazd Firdosh Sholapurwala Bharat Series a remarkable 12-foot-long single canvas work by M.F Husain

It featured an extraordinary selection of works from several talented artists culminating in a special interest of eight masterpieces- these include Maqbool Fida Husain’s triptych from the Krishna series a captivating three-part canvas painting depicting Lord Krishna life; another is his Bharath series, a remarkable 12-foot-long single canvas work, which is the zenith apogee of various motifs of that time period. Another rare and interesting piece displayed at the exhibition was the ‘Urdu Series’ which depicts seven steeds (Husain’s inimitable motif) painted in fluorescent colours. This commissioned work by the Sholapurwala family, also has inscriptions and couplets that M.F Husain himself painted on the canvas. It was conceptualised and brought to life in his Dubai studio. The fourth Husian piece displayed was from that of the Mother Teresa Series. It is a unique canvas as it demonstrates Mother Teresa joyfully playing with children; a marked difference from the melancholic theme that India’s beacon of hope was usually portrayed as. Lastly, a Krishna Leela series from M.F Husain garnered interest because it depicts a rural dance recital. Each motif is shown in a state of euphoria, represented by the artist’s expression of featureless characters only showing the inner eye and holding various musical instruments. The inner eye represents enlightenment.

The other three masters’ work on display were that of Akbar Padamsee’s metascape series that began in the 1970s till the early 2000’s. His prolonged engagement with the genre of landscapes drew his concern to the mythical and archetypal quality of landscapes. They are characterized by the use of timeless elements, such as the sun, the moon and the earth. The other is from the great visual metaphorist artist Ram Kumar with his unique representation of a village landscape. His work predominantly comprises abstract renditions of landscapes with jagged topographic contours, supplemented with a sense of ambient despair. Responding to different interpretations of landscape as a concept, Kumar uses a variety of textures to map out its architecture through abstract strokes. Lastly, one of the most exquisite works at the exhibition is that of Indian Modernist artist Sayed Haider Raza. He has been widely appreciated for his use of bold colors and profound symbolism, especially the ‘Bindu’, that is deeply rooted in Indian culture.

According to Hormazd Firdosh Sholapurwala, co-curator of this exhibition, art connoisseur, third-generation art collector and serial entrepreneur, “We are thrilled by the resounding success of the exhibition. Over the years my family and I have collected some extraordinary pieces of art including M.F Husains, Akbar Padamsees, Ram Kumars and S.H Razas amongst other masters’ works that we own, only a handful of which were displayed during this event. Hosting an exhibition at the prestigious Travancore House requires proper documentation and proof of provenance. Our main objective in co-curating this exhibition is to showcase how contemporary artists have been inspired by the artists of yesteryears. We at Opulent Art Gallery are also excited about our next big exhibition in India’s cultural capital, Mumbai in the coming months. Following which we will host events in Bengaluru, Chennai, and Hyderabad as well.”

Bharadwaj Mathukumilli, educationalist, philanthropist and third generation art collector whose visionary approach has left an indelible mark on the Indian art landscape states, “Alongside the art exhibition in Mumbai, we at Opulent Art Gallery are planning to open a permanent space to display art and artifacts from the various masters and from talented contemporary artists where they can showcase their works on a more regular basis.”

Pravin.V. Patil, Director of Opulent Art Gallery posits, “This exhibition has been very successful in terms of interests expressed by various buyers and collectors.”

Vandita Mishra, Director of Aem Contemporary & lead curator of this event says, “The motive behind doing these exhibitions is to start a dialogue and eventually establish a longstanding relationship between the contemporary artists and the collectors.”

As the exhibition concludes successfully in Delhi, art lovers, collectors, connoisseurs and the community can look forward to the future showcase in Mumbai in a couple of months.

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