Tag: allycaral

Music

BTS Confirms March 20, 2026 Comeback, Ending Nearly Four-Year Hiatus

Tanisha Cardozo

Written by Tanisha Cardozo || Team Allycaral

Global K-pop sensation BTS has officially announced its long-awaited group comeback, confirming March 20, 2026, as the release date and bringing an end to nearly four years of hiatus. The announcement was shared by BigHit Music on social media, instantly igniting excitement among fans worldwide.

The comeback follows the completion of South Korea’s mandatory military service by all seven members — RM, Jin, Suga, Jimin, V, Jung Kook and j-hope. Rapper Suga was the final member to conclude his service in June 2025, having served as a social service agent due to a previous shoulder injury. The remaining six members fulfilled their duties in the army, with enlistments carefully staggered to allow individual members to focus on solo music and creative projects during the group’s break.

In earlier statements, BTS had already hinted at a major return, revealing plans for a world tour and confirming that a new album would arrive in the spring of 2026. The group began working on the album in July 2025, emphasizing that the project would reflect the thoughts, experiences and artistic growth of all seven members.

“This will be a group album, and it will carry each member’s ideas and emotions,” the group shared previously. “We’re approaching it with the same mindset we had when we first started.”

The upcoming release will mark BTS’ first group album since 2022’s anthology Proof, following their last studio album Be released in 2020. It also comes after their Japanese compilation BTS, the Best in 2021. As anticipation builds, the March 2026 comeback is expected to be one of the biggest music events of the year, reaffirming BTS’ enduring influence on the global music stage and their deep connection with ARMY worldwide.

Special Occasion

National Science Fiction Day: Celebrating Worlds Beyond Imagination

Tanisha Cardozo

Written by Tanisha Cardozo || Team Allycaral

National Science Fiction Day is a celebration of imagination, curiosity, and the bold ideas that push beyond the boundaries of reality. Observed on January 2, the day coincides with the birth anniversary of legendary science fiction writer Isaac Asimov, whose visionary work helped define modern science fiction and inspired generations of readers, scientists, and storytellers.

Although not an official public holiday, National Science Fiction Day has steadily grown in popularity across the world. Recognised by organisations such as the Hallmark Channel and Scholastic Corporation, the day has become a meaningful occasion for fans to celebrate science fiction through books, films, cosplay, conventions, and creative expression. What was once a niche interest has now evolved into a global cultural movement that spans literature, cinema, technology, and pop culture.

Isaac Asimov’s influence on science fiction is unmatched. A trained biochemist, he authored or edited over 500 books and introduced concepts that remain relevant today. He coined terms such as “robotics” and developed ideas like “psychohistory,” a fictional science that combined history, sociology, and mathematics to predict the future behaviour of societies. His commitment to scientific accuracy and rational thinking set a benchmark for hard science fiction.

The spirit of National Science Fiction Day also celebrates other iconic voices who shaped the genre. Writers such as Jules Verne, H.G. Wells, Ray Bradbury, and Kurt Vonnegut imagined futures that questioned humanity, technology, time, and morality. Their stories continue to resonate through modern literature, film adaptations, and cultural references.

For many, the day is marked by reading classic science fiction novels, revisiting landmark films, or hosting movie marathons featuring titles like 2001: A Space Odyssey, Blade Runner, Alien, and The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy. Music from iconic sci-fi soundtracks, themed gatherings, and creative costume parties further add to the celebration.

At its core, National Science Fiction Day is about appreciating the power of storytelling to imagine futures, challenge assumptions, and inspire innovation. Whether through books, cinema, music, or art, science fiction reminds us that today’s imagination often becomes tomorrow’s reality.

Travel

Goa Crowned ‘Best Romantic Destination’ at Travel + Leisure India’s Best Awards 2025

Tanisha Cardozo

Written by Tanisha Cardozo || Team Allycaral Travel Desk

Goa has been conferred with the Winner – Best Romantic Destination at the prestigious Travel + Leisure India’s Best Awards 2025, further reaffirming its position as one of India’s most admired and loved travel destinations. The award was presented at a distinguished ceremony held at Nandiya Gardens, ITC Maurya, New Delhi, on December 16, 2025. The honour on behalf of the Department of Tourism, Government of Goa, was received by Ms. Swati Prabhu Shastri, currently serving at Goa Sadan on deputation from the Education Department.

This recognition highlights Goa’s timeless appeal, from its scenic coastline and intimate hospitality experiences to its vibrant cultural fabric and seamless balance of luxury with laid-back charm. Over the years, Goa has evolved beyond its beach identity, offering meaningful experiences rooted in heritage, wellness, hinterland exploration, and responsible tourism, making it a preferred destination for couples and travellers alike.

Reacting to the recognition, Hon’ble Minister for Tourism Shri Rohan A. Khaunte described the award as a proud moment for the state, noting that Goa offers far more than picturesque landscapes. He emphasised that the essence of romance in Goa lies in its culture, warmth, authenticity, and strong sense of place, while reiterating the government’s commitment to regenerative tourism that benefits both visitors and local communities.

Director of Tourism Shri Kedar Naik also welcomed the honour, stating that the recognition reflects the consistent efforts of the Department of Tourism, industry stakeholders, and local communities. He highlighted how curated experiences such as heritage stays, wellness retreats, immersive cultural encounters, and responsible tourism initiatives continue to strengthen Goa’s identity while keeping pace with evolving traveller expectations.

Now in its 14th year, the Travel + Leisure India’s Best Awards is a marquee celebration recognising excellence across the travel, tourism, and hospitality sectors. This accolade reinforces Goa’s positioning as a destination that effortlessly blends celebration with serenity, luxury with simplicity, and romance with sustainability. The Department of Tourism expressed its gratitude to Travel + Leisure India, industry partners, and travellers for their continued trust and support, viewing the award as a strong endorsement of Goa’s vision for experience-led, responsible, and regenerative tourism.

Entertainment

Sara Arjun Pens Heartfelt Tribute to Dhurandhar Director Aditya Dhar: “The Real Dhurandhar”

allycaralgoa

Sara Arjun, who recently made her highly anticipated Bollywood debut with Dhurandhar, has written a deeply emotional and heartfelt note dedicated to the film’s director, Aditya Dhar. Taking to Instagram, the young actor shared a warm picture with Dhar and called him “the real Dhurandhar,” expressing immense gratitude for the support, trust, and guidance he offered her throughout the filmmaking process.

“A Golden Heart and the Courage to Trust”

In her tribute, Sara described Dhar as someone with “a golden heart” — a leader who combines brilliance with humility. She spoke about how his compassion and quiet strength shaped not only her performance but also her personal growth. According to her, Dhar stood out for being “brilliant, yet grounded; accomplished, yet a pure soul.”

Calm Leadership That Held the Team Together

Recalling her time on set, Sara praised Dhar’s calm, collected leadership style. She shared that he was the steady force keeping the entire team centred, even during challenging moments.
“You were the strength that held us all together,” she wrote, adding that he never raised his voice. In one particularly impactful line, she described him as “not the silence before the storm, but the silence that caused it.”

A Mentor Who Made Her Feel Safe, Capable & Seen

Sara spoke openly about how Dhar never made her feel like a newcomer, instead creating a safe, nurturing space that allowed her to explore, learn, and evolve.
“You made me feel capable,” she wrote, highlighting how his confidence in her talent encouraged her to dream fearlessly.

A Vision That Inspired Focus and Determination

Referencing Dhar’s mantra on set — “Arjun ki nazar sirf aankh par thi” — she explained how this clarity of vision inspired her to stay committed and focused, both as an artist and as a person.

“One of the Greatest Gifts of Dhurandhar”

Sara concluded her note by calling Aditya Dhar not just her mentor but one of the greatest gifts she received from Dhurandhar. She thanked him for the rare, safe environment he created — a space that allowed her to aspire boldly and step into her debut with joy and confidence.
To her, he remains “the real DhuranDHAR.”

#faith

Goan Young Singers Bring Geet Ramayan Alive at Partagali Math’s 550-Year Celebrations

allycaralgoa

Partagali, Goa: The 550-year celebrations of Shree Saunsthan Gokarn Partagali Jivottam Math witnessed a heartwarming display of Goan talent as young and gifted singers took center stage for a special rendition of Geet Ramayan, enchanting devotees and guests with their melodious voices.

The lineup featured some of Goa’s most promising young artists — Hrishikesh Dhavalikar, Pritha Kunkolkar, Yuga Sambari, Soham Kamat, Ditya Shirvaikar, Ayan Bhat, Rama Shenvi, Atiksha Shenoi, Om Dangui, and Vaishnavi Pai Cacode. Their soulful and expressive performances added a vibrant cultural touch to the grand celebration, drawing applause and admiration from a captivated audience.

Geet Ramayan, a poetic retelling of the Ramayana through 56 lyrical compositions by G.D. Madgulkar and music by Sudhir Phadke, remains one of the most iconic creations in Marathi literature and performing arts. The young singers’ heartfelt interpretations breathed new life into this timeless masterpiece, making it a memorable evening for attendees.

The event formed part of the larger Sardha Panchashatamahotsava, which has brought together devotees, cultural performers, and spiritual leaders to honour the Math’s rich heritage and longstanding contributions to society.