Tag: #india

Human Interest

Virat Kohli Ranks 6th Among World’s Most Influential People on Instagram in 2025

Tanisha Cardozo

Virat Kohli, one of the most celebrated cricketers of all time, has achieved yet another milestone — this time beyond the cricket field. In 2025, he has been ranked as the 6th most influential person in the world on Instagram, according to global influencer rankings and industry reports. This recognition places Kohli among an elite list of global figures from entertainment, sports, and fashion, reaffirming his unparalleled global influence.

Known for his passion, performance, and leadership on the field, Kohli has seamlessly translated his sporting excellence into digital impact. His Instagram following, spanning hundreds of millions, reflects not only his athletic achievements but also his authentic personality, disciplined lifestyle, and powerful brand presence. His posts — whether celebrating a victory, sharing glimpses of fitness routines, or moments with family — consistently generate some of the highest engagement rates among athletes worldwide.

Over the past decade, Kohli has emerged as one of the world’s most recognized and respected athletes. From captaining India to historic wins to becoming the face of a new generation of fitness-conscious sports fans, his influence extends far beyond cricket. His online persona mirrors his professional ethos — confident, focused, and inspirational — resonating with fans from every corner of the world.

Industry experts credit Kohli’s global appeal to his ability to balance authenticity with ambition. While he remains rooted in Indian values, his voice and personality connect across cultures, making him one of the few athletes whose fame transcends sport. His Instagram presence also serves as a platform for advocacy — from fitness and mental wellness to sustainability and animal welfare — further amplifying his impact as a responsible global citizen.

Brands have long recognized the power of Kohli’s digital influence. His collaborations and campaigns are known for record engagement and reach, making him one of the most valuable brand ambassadors in sports marketing today. This recognition as the 6th most influential person globally cements his status not only as a cricketing legend but also as a global cultural force.

For millions of fans, Virat Kohli represents the spirit of dedication, resilience, and excellence. His journey from a young Delhi cricketer to a world leader in both sport and social influence is a testament to the transformative power of authenticity and hard work. Whether on the field or online, Kohli continues to inspire, lead, and redefine what it means to be a modern global icon.

Fit & Fabulous

Anita Dongre Opens Flagship Store in Beverly Hills, Taking Indian Craftsmanship to the Heart of Global Luxury

Tanisha Cardozo

Indian fashion designer Anita Dongre, celebrated globally for championing Indian craftsmanship and sustainable luxury, has opened her newest flagship store in Beverly Hills. Located at Gardenhouse, this marks the brand’s 13th store worldwide and its most significant U.S. expansion since the opening of her New York City flagship in 2018. Following her historic debuts in New York and Dubai, Dongre becomes the first Indian designer to unveil a flagship in Beverly Hills — a milestone that furthers her mission of taking India to the world.

The new space brings Dongre’s distinctive design language to one of the world’s most iconic luxury destinations. Here, contemporary silhouettes meet traditional artistry, offering an immersive experience of handcrafted couture and ready-to-wear designed for global connoisseurs. “The West Coast represents a very global way of living — open, creative, and deeply connected to nature and culture,” said Dongre. “Los Angeles understands slow luxury, craftsmanship, and conscious living. This moment belongs not just to me, but to every artisan whose hands shape our garments.”

The store’s interiors reflect Dongre’s modern interpretation of Rajasthan — imagined as a sanctuary of serenity. A delicate fragrance greets guests into an oasis of calm, where Indian crafts merge with contemporary design. Hand-painted Pichhwai walls, depicting flora and fauna, were meticulously crafted by artisans in Rajasthan. Each cushion, wallpaper, and piece of furniture has been hand-embroidered or designed in India, embodying Dongre’s philosophy of mindful luxury. Every detail — from flooring to lampshades — narrates a story of nature, craft, and quiet opulence.

Anchoring the space is a striking elephant matriarch and calf sculpture from “The Great Elephant Migration,” a global art movement featuring works created by indigenous Indian communities using invasive Lantana weeds. The installation symbolizes Dongre’s enduring commitment to sustainability and biodiversity under her guiding philosophy of “Fashion For Good.”

Over the years, Dongre has dressed global icons including Priyanka Chopra, Kate Middleton, Kim Kardashian, and Dakota Johnson, earning acclaim for her fusion of ethical craftsmanship and modern design. Her recent collaboration with Mattel — where she became the first Indian designer to create a Diwali Barbie — sold out within days, spotlighting South Asian representation and the beauty of Indian artisanship on the world stage. “Every piece we create is touched by women artisans whose skills have been passed down through generations. Bringing their craft to Beverly Hills gives their art the global stage it deserves,” she shared.

The opening event, hosted by Mindy Kaling and Poorna Jagannathan, brought together a vibrant mix of celebrities and tastemakers, including Anjula Acharia, Jay Shetty, Jeannie Mai Jenkins, Deepica Mutyala, Anjali Bhimani, Francia Raisa, Richa Moorjani, Saagar Shaikh, Yvonne Orji, and Anita Chatterjee. The evening celebrated culture, community, and couture — uniting Hollywood and Bollywood under one creative roof.

For Dongre, this new Beverly Hills home is more than just a store. It is a bridge between two storytelling cultures — Hollywood and Bollywood — both of which celebrate identity, beauty, and emotion. “Fashion becomes a bridge when it carries cultural heritage with pride,” she said. “With a space in LA, we can deepen our connection with stylists and artists, and create a haven where creativity and craftsmanship coexist.”

Rooted in Rajasthan, Dongre has long supported India’s artisan communities through initiatives that preserve and contemporize weaving, embroidery, and block printing, providing sustainable livelihoods to thousands of craftspeople. As she continues to expand globally, her commitment to conscious luxury, cultural authenticity, and women’s empowerment remains unwavering — a reminder that true luxury lies in purpose, not excess.

Business

Goa and Madhya Pradesh Explore Collaborative Opportunities to Boost Heritage and Cultural Tourism

Tanisha Cardozo

The Department of Tourism, Government of Goa, recently engaged in a significant meeting with senior officials from the Government of Madhya Pradesh to explore collaborative opportunities in tourism, focusing on heritage, wildlife, and cultural experiences. The discussions centered on creating synergy between the two States to promote two-way tourism, encouraging visitors from Madhya Pradesh to explore Goa’s diverse tourism offerings and facilitating travel from Goa to Madhya Pradesh to experience its rich heritage and wildlife destinations.

The meeting saw participation from key tourism officials including Shri Kedar Naik, Director of Tourism, Shri Gavin Dias, General Manager (Hotels & Marketing), GTDC, and Shri Jack Sukhija, President of TTAG, alongside Shri Sheo Shekhar Shukla, IAS, Principal Secretary, Culture, Tourism & Public Relations, Government of Madhya Pradesh.

Hon’ble Minister for Tourism, Shri Rohan A. Khaunte, emphasized the importance of this partnership, stating that it strengthens efforts to promote tourism beyond beaches, offering travellers deeper access to heritage and cultural narratives. He noted that Goa and Madhya Pradesh share complementary tourism profiles that can benefit both regions through collaborative circuits, knowledge sharing, and enhanced visitor experiences, aiming for tourism that is meaningful, responsible, and driven by community participation.

Shri Kedar Naik highlighted that the exchange of ideas with Madhya Pradesh opened avenues for joint product development in heritage and cultural tourism. The States are exploring curated experiences that encourage visitors to immerse themselves in the cultural richness of both regions. Madhya Pradesh has extended an invitation to the Director of Tourism, Government of Goa, along with tourism trade stakeholders, to visit the State in the coming quarter for further discussions and planning.

In return, Goa is preparing to host tourism trade representatives from Madhya Pradesh to strengthen heritage and cultural tourism initiatives. Both Governments are focused on improving visitor experiences, expanding tourism circuits, and fostering cultural appreciation. The collaboration is expected to generate mutually beneficial tourism growth, promote sustainable practices, and support local communities while enhancing domestic travel networks.

This partnership reflects a shared vision to celebrate cultural roots, develop meaningful tourism products, and create travel experiences that connect people with the heritage, wildlife, and culture of Goa and Madhya Pradesh alike.

Sports

Deepti Sharma: The Calm in India’s Storm and the Heart of a Historic World Cup Win

Tanisha Cardozo

In the storm of high-pressure moments, Deepti Sharma is India’s calm — steady, composed, and unshakeably resilient. Not just a cricketing star, she is also a proud Deputy Superintendent of Police in Uttar Pradesh, carrying both the India jersey and the police star with equal honour and pride.

Yesterday, as India created history by lifting their first-ever ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup, Deepti stood right at the heart of that glory — named Player of the Tournament for her exceptional all-round performance. Her consistent contributions with both bat and ball turned tight moments into triumphs and inspired millions watching around the world.

As celebrations erupted across the nation, emotions overflowed in her home in Agra. Her mother, Sushila Sharma, holding back tears of joy, said, “Deepti has fulfilled the dream of the entire nation… She has made India proud.” It was a moment that captured the spirit of not just victory, but of perseverance, sacrifice, and love.

Born on 24 August 1997, Deepti’s journey began with one fateful throw at the age of eight that caught the attention of former India cricketer Hemlata Kala — an instant that changed her life forever. Her brother, Sumit Sharma, became her first coach and guiding force. Leaving behind the comfort of a stable job, he dedicated himself fully to Deepti’s cricketing dream. Against all odds and in the face of constant societal skepticism, the Sharma family stood tall — proving that belief can silence doubt and courage can conquer convention.

From her selection in the Uttar Pradesh state team at just 12 to making her international debut at 17, Deepti’s rise has been marked by relentless discipline and quiet determination. Over the years, she has become India’s crisis warrior — the one who steps in when pressure peaks and delivers when it matters most.

Her heroics in the 2025 World Cup, both with the bat and ball, have now etched her name permanently in India’s cricketing history. Beyond the numbers, Deepti Sharma’s story is a celebration of patience, perseverance, and purpose — a reminder that true champions are not born in comfort, but forged in courage.

Today, as both a World Cup champion and a DSP, Deepti stands as a symbol of discipline, service, and strength. She represents the new India — one where women break boundaries, wear multiple hats with pride, and lead by example. Her story continues to inspire a generation to dream beyond limits and to rise, every time, with unwavering belief.

Events in Goa

Candlelight Makes History: India’s First-Ever Fort Concert Series Debuts at Goa’s 17th-Century Aguada Complex

Tanisha Cardozo

The Candlelight Concert Series by Live Your City is about to redefine India’s live music landscape with a historic debut at Goa’s legendary Aguada Port & Jail Complex. For the first time, this 17th-century Portuguese fortress—standing sentinel over the Arabian Sea for more than four centuries—will transform into a luminous stage for an extraordinary musical experience. On November 8, 2025, the ancient bastions of Fort Aguada will glow under thousands of candles, merging history and harmony in an atmosphere that promises to be nothing short of magical.

As twilight descends over the Goan coastline, audiences will be welcomed into the fortress for two back-to-back performances. The evening opens with Candlelight Goa: Queen vs. ABBA at 6:30 p.m., where the anthemic energy of rock legends Queen meets the timeless pop perfection of ABBA. This will be followed by Candlelight Goa: A Tribute to A.R. Rahman at 8:30 p.m., celebrating India’s most beloved musical genius whose compositions have become the heartbeat of a generation. Each performance lasts 60 minutes and is designed to immerse audiences in sound, light, and emotion against the awe-inspiring backdrop of one of India’s most storied fortresses.

The Fort Aguada complex, with its weathered laterite walls, ocean-facing bastions, and historic jail chambers, provides an acoustic and visual setting unlike any concert venue in the country. The natural resonance of its chambers enhances the music’s intimacy, while the flicker of candlelight creates a mesmerizing dialogue between history and artistry. Seating is limited to ensure every attendee experiences the grandeur up close and personal, making it one of the most exclusive live events ever hosted in Goa.

This debut marks a milestone not only for Candlelight but also for Goa’s cultural and tourism landscape. It positions the state as a destination for immersive heritage-based experiences that blend the old and the new. The event exemplifies how music can transcend time and architecture, turning historical spaces into living, breathing stages of artistic expression.

With tickets starting from ₹1,399, the Candlelight Goa Fort Concert Series is more than an evening of music—it’s an invitation to witness history illuminated.