Jashan-meaning celebration-had made its grand debut at Legacy North in Dallas, marking a milestone occasion that brings the richness of Indian cuisine to a global stage. True to its name, Jashan brings together the royal culinary legacies of India, from the Mughal grandeur to delicate flavours of the Nawabs of Awadh and the opulence of the Nizams of Hyderabad, to and the timeless traditions of the Cholas of the South. Each dish is a tribute to India’s diverse heritage, reimagined with modern finesse, allowing Dallas to experience an authentic celebration of India’s culinary soul.

Facade – Jashan, Dalas

Founded by entrepreneur Prasanna Singaraju, Jashan is more than just a restaurant; it’s a cultural journey that showcases the time-honoured recipes from India’s royal kitchens, brought to life using traditional techniques and thoughtfully sourced ingredients. Chef Ashish Bhasin, one of India’s prominent regional cuisine specialists, joins founder Prasanna Singaraju for this venture, alongside Chef Ramesh Thangaraj, the team ensures each recipe reflects its roots.

At Jashan, the menu brings alive the timeless cooking traditions that define India’s rich culinary heritage, offering dishes from the history laden chowks of Lucknow, the Mughal durbars of Old Delhi, the Nizami Dastarkhwans of Hyderabad, and the coastal traditions of the “southern V” of India.

From Lucknow, diners can look forward to galouti and kakori kebabs, sheermal, slow-cooked nihari, and chaats layered with yoghurt and tangy chutneys that echo the Nazaaqath. Hyderabad offers haleem, dum biryani, pathar ka gosht, and mirchi ka salan and Qormas highlighting the region’s love for spice and slow-simmered dishes. The coastal heritage appears through Chettinad and Tanjore style curries, meen moilee, Prawn and Lobster Rassa, nethili fry, with delightful pairings that include idiyappam, appam, and Neer Dosa.

The dessert selection at Jashan complete the experience with nimish and shahi tukda from Lucknow, daulat ki chaat and rabri from Delhi, qubani ka meetha and double ka meetha from Hyderabad, and elaneer payasam and adhirasam from Chennai. Dishes at Jashan will be prepared using traditional methods such as dum cooking to seal in aromas, dhungar smoking for a charcoal kiss, slow braising to achieve depth, bhunao for searing spices, baghar tempering for layered flavours, tandoor roasting for charred tenderness, and stone-searing for select meats. Saffron sourced from Pampore, carefully selected meats for texture, and locally grown microgreens will add freshness and authenticity to each plate. For those seeking a complete experience, an omakase-style tasting will offer a curated progression of these flavours, letting guests discover the stories of these cities in one visit.

Inside, warm lighting and design elements inspired by Indian craftsmanship will create a welcoming environment for families, intimate dinners, and small gatherings. Subtle architectural touches, handcrafted decor, and earthy textures will reflect the regions Jashan represents, adding depth and character to the ambience. A chef’s table and private dining spaces will provide choices for those marking special events or seeking a dedicated meal.

“Home was where meals brought us together, creating moments that formed who we are. Building Jashan comes from the desire to extend these moments while keeping the essence of where I come from alive. Bringing this to Dallas is both an honour and a responsibility I carry with commitment. Each dish speaks of tradition, each service reflects care, and each visit is built to leave a lasting connection. I believe in working with people who see the purpose behind every detail, and Jashan is guided by this belief, bringing India’s kitchens to a place where guests can find a piece of that familiarity and memory on the table” says Mr. Prasanna Singaraju, Founder, Jashan.

Chef Bhasin and Chef Thangaraj note that Jashan will present Dallas with a culinary chapter showcasing India’s rich food origins while creating an offering that will stand apart in the city’s restaurant landscape, promising something truly special for those who walk through its doors.

Bisleri International Pvt. Ltd., India’s leading packaged drinking water company, has partnered with Manorama Hortus, the literature festival by Malayala Manorama in Kochi, under its ‘Bisleri Bottles for Change’ initiative. Under this partnership, Bisleri is the exclusive Hydration and Sustainability Partner. The association highlights Bisleri’s continued commitment to promoting responsible plastic use, recycling, and sustainability-driven public engagement.

Bisleri joins hands with Manorama Hortus in Kochi

As part of the on-ground experience, Bisleri has set up Bottles for Change (BFC) and Bisleri stalls at the festival, along with benches made from recycled plastic, strategically placed recycling bins, and a specially designed bookshelf constructed entirely from recycled plastic. These installations not only enhance the visitor experience but also demonstrate practical and creative ways to repurpose used plastic, reinforcing the message of circularity.

Speaking on the association, Angelo George, CEO, Bisleri International said, “This partnership with Manorama Hortus is a natural extension of our ‘Bottles for Change’ mission – bringing sustainability into the heart of community life. By turning recycled plastic into thoughtful installations, we’re not just reducing waste — we’re sparking conversations, inspiring creativity, and helping people see how small actions can have a big impact. The possibilities of recycling are immense, and our ‘Bench of Dreams,’ made from recycled plastic, is a simple reminder of that. Together with Malayala Manorama, we are helping people realise that recycling can be both beautiful and impactful, inspiring more individuals to join us in shaping a greener future.”

This partnership reinforces Bisleri’s mission to drive behavioural change through meaningful collaborations and immersive initiatives that inspire communities to adopt greener, more responsible lifestyles. Through its ‘Bottles for Change’ initiative, Bisleri continues to educate and empower citizens to segregate and recycle plastic responsibly. By embedding plastic waste management into ecologically significant areas, the campaign advances conservation and encourages responsible recycling within local communities.

About Bisleri International Pvt. Ltd

With a legacy of over 50 years, Bisleri International Pvt. Ltd has grown to become one of the largest premium beverage businesses in India. Being the makers of the country’s largest-selling packaged drinking water, Bisleri follows a stringent process of 114 quality tests and a 10-stage purification. It remains true to its core value of providing consumers with pure, safe and healthy water.

Bisleri International has a strong presence with 128 operational plants and a robust distribution network of over 6,000 Distributors and 7,500 Distribution Trucks across India and UAE market. It offers a range of beverages that are produced for all occasions. Whether it is the promise of goodness, trust, and purity with Bisleri packaged drinking water, or a daily dose of health offered through Vedica Himalayan Spring Water. Besides, Bisleri International has ventured into fun-filled refreshments with a diverse range of carbonated drinks available in multiple flavours, such as Bisleri Limonata, Bisleri Rev, Bisleri Spyci Jeera, Bisleri Pop and Bisleri Soda. These Bisleri products are also available on the e-commerce platform – Bisleri@Doorstep. This D2C platform reassures customers that they will receive a safe and uninterrupted supply of their most trusted brand at their doorstep.

The core values of Bisleri International lie in yielding growth and embedding sustainability by being responsible in all aspects of the business. The organization has unveiled Sustainability 2.0 with Bisleri Greener Promise that focuses on creating greener future for all through implementing initiatives under the program of recycling, water conservation and sustainability.

For more information on Bisleri International, our people, brands, and OSR initiatives, visit www.bisleri.com.

As a founding member of the Indian Green Building Council (IGBC), Nippon Paint India continues to drive sustainability in the construction ecosystem with solutions rooted in environmental responsibility and performance excellence.

Mr. Mark Titus, President – Decorative Business, Nippon Paint India, announces the launch of the brand’s new ‘Beyond Paint’ sustainable surface engineering portfolio at IGBC Mumbai 2025

At IGBC Mumbai 2025, Nippon Paint India unveiled its latest Sustainable Surface Engineering Solutions, marking a powerful step toward enabling climate-positive and future-ready buildings across the country. The launch demonstrated how advanced coatings can go Beyond Paint to deliver measurable impact in the urban landscape.

Unveiled during the event by Mr. Mark Titus, President – Decorative Business, Nippon Paint India, along with Mr. Shekar Reddy C., National Vice Chairman – CII IGBC, the portfolio reflects the company’s commitment to elevating building efficiency while supporting green certification frameworks.

Key Offerings Showcased:

• Cool Tec Solution: Innovative heat-reflective coating system that helps lower surface and indoor temperatures

• Jiki Art: Designer-inspired finishes that combine artistic expression with durable surface protection

• N-Shield Protective Films: Smart architectural film solutions enabling long-lasting protection and easier refurbishments

These technologies empower architects, consultants, and developers to reduce energy consumption, improve occupant comfort, and extend building life cycles – all while meeting sustainable building criteria such as IGBC, LEED, and GRIHA.

Talking about the launch, Mr. Mark Titus, President – Decorative Business, Nippon Paint India (Decorative Business) commented, “At Nippon Paint, sustainability has always guided our innovation. This new portfolio showcases how surface engineering can improve efficiency, comfort, and longevity while reducing environmental impact. IGBC Mumbai offers the perfect platform to reinforce our commitment to creating greener, cooler, and smarter buildings for India.”

About Nippon Paint India

Nippon Paint India is part of NIPSEA Group – Asia’s No.1 and the world’s 4th largest paint and coatings manufacturer. With strong innovation leadership backed by GreenCo and GreenPro recognitions, the company offers solutions across decorative coatings, waterproofing, construction chemicals, and protective technologies that help build a more sustainable future.

Artificial Limbs Manufacturing Corporation of India (ALIMCO), a Miniratna PSU under the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment, marked a historic milestone today, celebrating its 53rd Foundation Day with a brand overhaul and the launch of high-tech mobility solutions.

Hon’ble Union Minister Dr Virender Kumar, Hon’ble Minister of State Shri B L Verma, Additional Secretary (DEPwD) Smt Manmeet Kaur Nanda and ALIMCO CMD Shri Praveen Kumar 

Union Minister for Social Justice & Empowerment, Dr. Virendra Kumar as the Chief Guest witnessed the unveiling of ALIMCO’s new corporate identity designed by NID Ahmedabad, alongside two cutting-edge products: a 3-Wheeler EV Scooter and a Clip-On Motorised Wheelchair Device.

New Era of Tech-Driven Inclusion The newly launched 3-Wheeler EV Scooter offers a safe, eco-friendly, and rugged mobility solution designed specifically for the Indian terrain, while the Clip-On Motorised Device is a game-changer that converts a standard manual wheelchair into a motorised vehicle within seconds, offering affordable independence to users.

Speaking at the event, Dr. Virendra Kumar reflected on ALIMCO’s transformative journey, stating that in its 53 years of service, the organisation has grown from a manufacturing unit into a national institution that symbolises innovation with empathy. He noted that under the leadership of Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, more than 32 lakh Divyang beneficiaries have been supported through various government initiatives, and ALIMCO continues to play a pivotal role in ensuring that high-quality assistive devices reach every deserving individual across the country.

Shri B. L. Verma, Minister of State for Social Justice & Empowerment, described the occasion as more than a milestone, calling it a celebration of compassion and collective purpose. He observed that the newly launched devices are not merely products of engineering but powerful enablers of independence, dignity and mobility, reflecting India’s growing leadership in inclusive and accessible technology.

At the heart of the occasion was the deeply moving address delivered by Smt Manmeet Kaur Nanda, Additional Secretary, Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities, who highlighted that ALIMCO must be viewed not just as a production organisation, but as a living institution that carries forward India’s vision of self-reliance, inclusion and social justice.

She described the day as one of profound significance, with the unveiling of the new logo and the launch of the two mobility innovations marking a new chapter in ALIMCO’s journey. She spoke of how the organisation’s work is ultimately defined not by machines, but by the lives it touches.

Recalling the stories showcased in the film presented during the programme, she referred to Ms. Sarita Trivedi, a triple amputee and an inspiration to the nation in the field of art, and a BSF officer who, despite the loss of his limbs and medical advice to withdraw from active life, went on to defeat the World No. 1 para-badminton player from Indonesia.

Sharing the officer’s words with the audience, she said, “Limbs are optional, but courage is compulsory.”

She further highlighted ALIMCO’s forward-looking vision, including collaboration with over 80 start-ups, technology transfer agreements, expansion into AI-assisted and smart digital assistive technologies, and the development of advanced, affordable and high-quality aids and appliances for persons with disabilities across the country.

Introducing the new corporate identity, Shri Praveen Kumar, Chairman and Managing Director, ALIMCO, said the new purple logo symbolises dignity, inclusion and engineering brilliance, reflecting the organisation’s renewed focus on modern solutions, faster delivery and enhanced impact.

He added that with the integration of EV mobility, advanced prosthetics and next-generation assistive devices, ALIMCO is better positioned than ever to respond to emerging needs with quality, sensitivity and speed.

The celebration concluded with a showcase of ALIMCO’s modernization drive and a cultural performance by internationally acclaimed autistic artist Master Devansh, reinforcing the spirit of “Sashakt Bharat.”

• Robot-assisted surgery will be offered across oncology, gastrointestinal, urology, thoracic, gynaecology and complex general surgery specialties

• The hospital will use the advanced SSi Mantra system, featuring modular robotic arms and high-definition 3D imaging for enhanced surgical precision

Billroth Hospitals, one of the city’s leading multispeciality centres and a pioneer in advanced laparoscopic and laser procedures, has launched its Institute of Robotic Surgery, marking a major expansion of its minimally invasive surgical capabilities. The facility will use the SSi Mantra 3, an India-made next-generation surgical robot designed by SS Innovations, to perform a wide range of procedures with greater precision and improved patient outcomes.

Billroth Hospitals Launches Institute of Robotic Surgery to Deliver High-Precision, Cost-Effective Care

The robotic platform will be deployed across oncology, gastrointestinal surgery, urology, thoracic surgery, gynaecology and complex general surgery. The SSi Mantra 3 will also support intricate operations involving the esophagus, stomach, liver, pancreas, biliary system, intestines, rectum, anal canal and urological organs such as the kidney, ureter, bladder and prostate. It will further aid minimally invasive interventions for reproductive tract conditions, retroperitoneal tumours and tumours of the chest.

The hospital said that the system will enhance its capabilities in performing complex hernia repairs, bile duct exploration, diaphragmatic repair, hiatus hernia fundoplication, metabolic and bariatric surgery, hysterectomy and tubal reimplantation. High-end procedures such as liver transplantation and cardiac bypass are also expected to benefit from the dexterity and stability offered by the robotic arms.

The SSi Mantra 3 features 3 to 5 fully modular robotic arms and supports more than 40 robotic endo-surgical instruments, enabling surgeons to tailor the setup to each operation. Its open-face console includes a 32-inch 3D 4K display, ergonomic controls and head-tracking safety, offering enhanced visual clarity and steadier control during long or complex surgeries.

In his comments, Dr. Rajesh Jeganathan, Chairman, Billroth Hospitals said, “We are pleased to launch a centre of excellence for robot-assisted surgery. Our goal is to democratise minimally invasive care by making it accessible and affordable for our patients. Those who require laparoscopic procedures should consider robotic surgery, as both follow the same minimally invasive principles. With a robot-assisted approach, even complex operations can be performed more safely, with faster recovery and shorter hospital stays – ultimately reducing overall treatment costs. This is especially beneficial for cancer patients who need intricate resections or long surgical hours. The minimally invasive technique also enables patients to get out of bed the very next day, significantly supporting quicker recovery.”

He further added that robotic technology significantly enhances surgical precision. Unlike conventional open surgery, robotic systems provide a highly magnified, 10x enlarged 4K 3D view that offers exceptional clarity while preserving the depth perception of open procedures. The stable robotic platform minimises unintended hand movements, enabling greater accuracy and reducing blood loss. With a range of motion that exceeds natural human limits, the robotic arms can bend and rotate to access difficult-to-reach areas with ease. Importantly, surgeons operate from an ergonomically designed console, which reduces fatigue and allows for steadier control during long or complex surgeries.

For more details, please visit: www.billrothhospitals.com.

About Billroth Hospital

Billroth Hospital was founded by the late Dr. V. Jeganathan on November 30, 1990, beginning as a modest 30-bed facility. Within six years, it expanded with an additional 70 beds, eventually growing into a 650-bed multi-specialty hospital. Guided by Dr. Jeganathan’s vision, the hospital remains committed to delivering quality, affordable healthcare to people from all walks of life. This mission is upheld by a dedicated team of skilled doctors, advanced medical technology and well-trained paramedical staff, all working together to ensure comprehensive care and support for every patient.

Digital travel platform Agoda has published its 2026 Travel Outlook Report, spotlighting five key trends and insights that will define the next year of travel across Asia. Agoda’s findings reveal that Asian travelers are increasingly drawn to local adventures and hidden gems at home, while food is rapidly emerging as a major motivator for travel across Asia.
 

Agoda’s 2026 Travel Trends Reveal India’s New Era of ‘Inward Wanderlust’
 

Derived from a survey of Asian travelers as part of Agoda’s 2026 Travel Outlook Report, the data also reveals that travelers are keen on maximizing value, ensuring every travel dollar is well spent. Travel habits are shifting towards shorter, frequent trips with family, alongside the rise of new trends like micro travel. Against this backdrop, AI has also emerged as a new digital travel companion to help with inspiration and planning.
 

In India, Agoda’s report spotlights a powerful shift toward “inward wanderlust,” as more Indian travelers turn their attention to hidden gems, cultural richness, and meaningful experiences within their own borders.
 

“While frictionless travel continues to fuel outbound ambitions, it’s clear that domestic exploration remains firmly on the minds of Indian travelers. Every corner of the country has something novel and exciting to offer, and this renewed curiosity is shaping a more meaningful and more intentional era of travel. This shift is supported by the rise of AI tools that make planning easier and more personalized than ever. India’s travelers are not just exploring more but they are exploring with deeper intention,” said Gaurav Malik, Country Director for the Indian Subcontinent and Indian Ocean Islands at Agoda.
 

Agoda’s top five trends defining travel in India in 2026

1. Home is where the adventure begins – Domestic exploration accelerates

If 2026 has a travel anthem for India, it is the renewed call to explore the cultural richness within one’s own country. The popularity of domestic travel continues to rise, with more than a third of Indian travelers (35%) planning to explore more within the country than internationally, an increase from 25% last year.
 

While Indians still enjoy balancing both domestic and international adventures, with 51% planning to do so equally, the growing allure of India’s lesser-known destinations is unmistakable. Unique cultural experiences, lower costs, and fewer crowds rank as the top three reasons Indians prefer secondary destinations over traditional hotspots.
 

2. Indian travelers follow their passions – Relaxation, Adventure, and Culture lead the way

Indians are embracing bolder, more meaningful ways to travel. Their top three motivations for taking a trip in 2026 are relaxation (67%), outdoor adventure and activities (28%), and cultural exploration (26%). Notably, Indian travelers are also the most likely across Asia to embark on spiritual or religious journeys, highlighting a growing desire for reflection, connection, and purpose-driven travel experiences.
 

3. Smart spending and planning shapes travel choices

Value remains a key priority for Indian travelers in 2026. Nearly half (47%) plan to spend INR 5000 or less per night on accommodation, underscoring a strong preference for budget-smart stays. Additionally, if visa restrictions were not a factor when planning travel, Indians’ global ambitions would rise even further, with 84% saying they would travel more often and 91% saying they would be open to exploring new destinations, the highest among their Asian peers.
 

4. Shorter, meaningful getaways with loved ones

For most Indian travelers, 2026 will bring trips that balance convenience with connection. The average trip is expected to last between 4-7 days, ideally spent with family (40%) or with a spouse or partner (34%). These shorter breaks allow travelers to enjoy fulfilling experiences without lengthy time away from work or routine responsibilities, reinforcing the trend toward frequent but compact getaways.
 

5. AI emerges as India’s trusted travel co-pilot

Indians are among Asia’s most enthusiastic adopters of AI in travel. 68% say they are likely to use AI to plan their next trip. 53% say they trust AI-generated information, compared to just 12% who express distrust. Indian travelers are looking to AI for help at every stage of their journey from crafting personalized itineraries to discovering local attractions and enabling seamless translations, cementing AI’s role as a dependable digital travel companion.
 

Those making travel plans for 2026 can enjoy Agoda’s offerings of over 6 million holiday properties, more than 130,000 flight routes, and over 300,000 activities, all easily combined in a single booking. Discover the best deals on Agoda’s mobile app and visit Agoda.com for more information.
 

About the Data

Agoda surveyed 3,353 respondents from nine markets in Asia (India, Indonesia, Japan, Malaysia, Philippines, South Korea, Taiwan, Thailand, Vietnam). The survey was conducted in October 2025.

About Agoda

Agoda, a digital travel platform, helps anyone see the world for less with its great value deals on a global network of 6 million hotels and holiday properties worldwide, plus flights, activities, and more. Agoda.com and the Agoda mobile app are available in 39 languages and supported by 24/7 customer support.

Headquartered in Singapore, Agoda is part of Booking Holdings (Nasdaq: BKNG) and employs more than 7,000 staff in 27 markets, dedicated to leveraging best-in-class technology to make travel even easier.

For more information, visit www.agoda.com.

Galgotias University commences ‘Galgotias University Model United Nations’ (TGUMUN), marking a significant milestone in its mission to nurture globally aware, articulate, and solution-oriented youth leaders. The two-day conference brought together more than 200 delegates from schools, colleges, and departments across India, transforming the campus into a hub of debate, negotiation, and collaborative policy simulation.
 

Delegates and dignitaries at the inaugural ceremony of TGUMUN, marking the start of a two-day platform for youth diplomacy and global policy discussions
 

The event opened with a ceremonious welcome for the Chief Guest, Maj Gen Dr. Rajan Kochhar, who was received by the NCC Guard of Honour, setting an inspiring tone of discipline and pride. Ms. Geeta Karunakaran, Head of MUN at Galgotias University, addressed the delegates, sharing the vision behind TGUMUN and underscoring the importance of experiential learning platforms that challenge students to think critically and engage with real-world issues.

Maj Gen Dr. Kochhar said, “I extend my heartfelt congratulations to Galgotias University and the organising committee for hosting an event of such academic and leadership value. MUN conferences play a vital role in shaping responsible youth by encouraging them to think critically, communicate effectively, and lead with empathy. TGUMUN reflects the University’s dedication to offering experiential learning that truly prepares students for global citizenship.”

The Secretary-General, Ms. Kashish Wadhawan, formally declared the conference open, paving the way for intense rounds of debate and stimulating discussions across multiple committees.

TGUMUN featured committees including UNGA, UNHRC, UNEP, UNODC, UNCSW, AIPPM, and International Press, where delegates engaged with real-world geopolitical, environmental, gender, and national policy challenges. Deliberations ranged from human rights issues and interstate security concerns to gender equality reforms and social media regulation. The International Press captured the conference through detailed reports, photographs, and creative illustrations, reflecting the energy and vibrancy of the sessions.

Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Dhruv Galgotia, CEO of Galgotias University, congratulated the delegates and emphasized the importance of such platforms in shaping future leaders. “Initiatives like TGUMUN encourage students to embrace diplomacy, critical thinking, and global citizenship. It is inspiring to see young minds engage so meaningfully in dialogue and decision-making processes that mirror real-world governance. Their passion and clarity of thought reaffirm our commitment to nurturing talent that stands out on national and global stages,” he said.

By the conclusion of Day 1, delegates wrapped up their initial rounds debate, setting the stage for deeper negotiations for Day 2. Committees will reconvene tomorrow to continue discussions and work towards draft resolutions.

Galgotias University continues to reinforce its position as one of India’s leading institutions for quality and future-ready education. The University’s emphasis on experiential learning, through initiatives like TGUMUN, innovation labs, global collaborations, and interdisciplinary projects, ensures holistic student development. Galgotias University remains committed to nurturing capable, confident, and socially responsible leaders equipped to excel in a rapidly evolving world.

About Galgotias University 

Galgotias University Among the World’s Leading Universities in QS and THE Rankings.

Galgotias University proudly ascends in the QS World University Rankings 2026 by Quacquarelli Symonds, securing a coveted position in the 1201–1400 global band. Ranked 15th among top private universities and 43rd among all Indian universities – public and private combined – this achievement marks a powerful endorsement of Galgotias’ unwavering commitment to academic excellence, global relevance, and innovation in higher education.

Anant National University announces the launch of Mooo Fest, an international moving image festival designed exclusively for students and creative academics. The five-day academic event marks a significant milestone in Anant’s commitment to expanding students’ creative horizons and equipping them with a global, future-oriented understanding of cinema and moving image practices.

Anant National University Launches Mooo Fest, a Global Platform Shaping the Future of Film Education and Creative Exchange

Through live-action filmmaking, animation, sound design, text-based storytelling and emerging media technologies, Mooo Fest 1.0 offers an immersive and transformative learning experience for students, encouraging them to view cinema as an evolving language that blends creative expression with technology.

Sharing the university’s vision for the festival, Prof Sekhar Mukherjee, Professor and Programme Lead, Moving Image, School of Design, Anant National University, said, “Mooo Fest is a celebration of creativity, curiosity and collaboration. It deepens our students’ understanding of moving image and prepares them for the rapidly evolving cinematic and media industries. By bringing global perspectives to our campus, the festival enriches our students’ worldviews while keeping their practice rooted in context.”

The inaugural edition welcomes leading artists, educators, animators and practitioners from India and around the world, including Gailė Cijūnaitytė, an interdisciplinary artist from VilAA, Lithuania; Prof Gintarė Valevičiūtė Brazauskienė, artist and Associate Professor at Vilnius Academy of the Arts, Lithuania; Prof Isabel Herguera, animation director and educator, KHM, Germany; Prof Hans Koch, Sound Design, KHM, Germany; Silas Hickey, Founder of Custom Nuts Studio, Tokyo, Japan; award-winning animator Vaibhav Kumaresh; visual artist and educator Francoise Chalet from HSLU, Switzerland; Prateek Sethi, Board of Studies Member and Founder Director of Trip Creative Service in Mumbai and master students from KHM Germany, among others. Their participation transforms Mooo Fest into a vibrant global exchange of ideas, methods and artistic approaches, enriching both dialogue and practice.

Strengthening Anant’s existing relationships with its international academic partners, the festival becomes a platform for deepening collaboration and reimagining how filmmaking is taught and learnt. Through workshops conducted by global practitioners, panel discussions on contemporary and emerging practices, screenings of films from around the world and informal interactions between students, faculty, filmmakers and media artists, Mooo creates a continuous loop of observation, engagement, critique and creation.

Mooo also brings an intellectual depth to its programming. It acknowledges that visuals and sound have shaped human experience since the earliest civilisations. In today’s digital era, arguably the most recorded and documented period in human history, the moving image plays a profound role in shaping communication, culture and collective memory. By placing student learning within this broader historical and societal context, the festival positions moving image as both an artistic expression and a vital contemporary language.

The fest reflects Anant’s commitment to creating a holistic learning environment that is grounded in the local context while remaining globally relevant. True to Anant’s mission of preparing solutionaries equipped for the challenges and opportunities of the future, the festival brings together industry leaders, academicians, researchers, students and the wider Anant community on a single platform to celebrate the moving image, share knowledge and advance creative inquiry.

With this inaugural edition, Anant reaffirms its role as a forward-looking, innovation-driven university, one that nurtures creativity, encourages experimentation and empowers students to engage meaningfully with the rapidly evolving cinematic and media landscapes.

About Anant National University

Anant National University, India’s premier design university, is dedicated to training students to devise solutions for global problems. Anant follows the DesignX pedagogy, where ‘X’ is the symbol drawn from mathematics, representing enhancement. This new learning approach multiplies traditional design pedagogy with liberal arts disciplines, emerging technologies and knowledge drawn from hands-on community experiences to help understand our world better and to devise impactful solutions.

Our multidisciplinary undergraduate, postgraduate and doctoral programmes in design, architecture, climate action and visual arts harness knowledge from various disciplines and traditional practices to integrate it with cutting-edge technology to address diverse challenges. We train our designers to become solutionaries — revolutionary thinkers with a solution-oriented mindset.

Anant National University has been recognised as the Centre of Excellence by the Government of Gujarat, highlighting our efforts to provide our students with world-class education, innovative pedagogy, high employability and enhanced entrepreneurial and research opportunities. Anant has also received the prestigious ‘5-Star Rating’ in the category of Architecture and a ‘4-Star Rating’ in the University category in the Gujarat State Institutional Rating Framework (GSIRF) 2023-24. These recognitions reinforce our commitment to creating a world-class institution of great eminence and excellence.

India’s digital marketing environment is undergoing rapid change. Algorithmic shifts, rising media costs, and evolving audience behaviour are prompting brands to reconsider traditional approaches. In a landscape where authentic, straightforward communication often performs better than heavily produced content, adaptability has become essential.

Vipluv Rana and Neha Rana Co-founders 28 DigiTech

Operating within this shift is 28 DigiTech, a young agency established six months ago by Neha Rana and Vipluv Rana, professionals with nearly 15 years of experience in digital strategy and communication. The agency was formed with the intention of responding to the changing expectations of digital audiences and the increasing need for agile content and campaign design.

In a short period, 28 DigiTech has worked with a number of institutions in India’s higher education sector, a category that places significant emphasis on credibility and targeted communication. Its growing client list includes:

KIIT University, IIT Bombay Educational Outreach, Somaiya Vidyavihar University, Krea University, SPJIMR, ISBR, Jindal Global University, Panipat Institute of Engineering & Technology (PIET), Kalinga Institute of Social Sciences (KISS), Maxme, Q&I Today (from the promoters of India Today Group) to name a few.

The agency has also crossed a turnover of ₹1 crore within six months, reflecting steady demand for strategic digital solutions rooted in audience understanding.

Commenting on today’s digital environment, Co-founder Neha Rana states, “The old digital formula doesn’t work anymore. You can’t outspend your way to attention. You have to out-think it. The audience is smarter, faster, and more instinctive than ever so our content has to be, too.”

Adding to this, Co-founder Vipluv Rana explains, “We come from the same world our audience lives in. We know what makes them scroll, skip, and stop because we’re part of that tribe. Our goal is to make an impact and deliver measurable results to our clients.”

The founders further state the approach that defines 28 DigiTech:

Raw Over Refined:
 A focus on communication that prioritises authenticity and real-world relevance.

Agile, Not Aged:
A structure designed for rapid decision-making, enabling campaigns to adapt quickly to changing platform and audience dynamics.

Data-Led Creativity:
 Creative development grounded in insights, performance tracking, and measurable results

Education at the Core:
 A strong and growing presence in the higher education sector, driving measurable outcomes.

Results, Not Rhetoric:
 Campaigns built around effectiveness, relevance, and sustained impact delivering desired reach and ROI

As India’s digital ecosystem expands, organisations are increasingly looking for partners who combine strategic clarity with an understanding of evolving user behaviour. Agencies that can respond quickly to shifts in the digital environment are becoming more relevant to brands seeking sustained visibility and engagement.

Through its early work, 28 DigiTech echoes the industry’s gradual shift toward more adaptive, insight-driven digital communication.The agency’s trajectory highlights the growing importance of responsiveness and audience understanding in shaping contemporary marketing outcomes.