Tag: #photography

Films

Female-Driven Crime Noir ‘Project Y’ Wins Best Film at 10th London East Asia Film Festival

Tanisha Cardozo

Director Lee Hwan’s crime noir ‘Project Y,’ featuring Han So-hee and Jeon Jong-seo, has won the Best Film award at the 10th London East Asia Film Festival (LEAFF) held on November 2, 2025, in London. Celebrated for its gripping narrative and innovative female-centric storytelling, the film impressed the jury with a fresh take on noir, centering women’s experiences in a story of ambition, betrayal, and survival.

Set against the contrasting backdrop of Seoul’s glamorous yet gritty Gangnam nightlife, ‘Project Y’ follows childhood friends Mi-sun (Han So-hee) and Do-kyung (Jeon Jong-seo), both in their early thirties. Facing the harsh realities of poverty, the duo plans a high-stakes heist to steal hidden cash and gold bars worth 8 billion KRW, seeking one last chance at freedom. What unfolds is a suspenseful chain of events filled with tension, moral ambiguity, and shifting loyalties.

The jury praised the film for subverting traditional noir tropes, putting female agency and perspective at the forefront. By exploring ambition, survival, and ethical complexity through strong female leads, ‘Project Y’ opens new possibilities for storytelling in Asian cinema.

Supporting performances by Kim Shin-rok as the senior figure Ga-young and Kim Sung-cheol as the antagonist “Boss To” heighten the stakes, while Lee Hwan’s signature realistic and intense directorial style elevates the film’s impact.

LEAFF also honored Kang Yoon-sung’s ‘Run to The’ with the Future of Asia Cinema Award, and closed with the sold-out screening of ‘Kokuho’ by Korean-Japanese director Lee Sang-il. Executive Director Jeon Hye-jung highlighted the festival’s growth into a key platform for Asian cinema in the UK, applauding the daring experimentation and anticipating continued innovation in the years ahead.

With its bold narrative, powerful female leads, and stylish execution, ‘Project Y’ marks a milestone in Asian crime cinema, establishing a new benchmark for the genre on the international stage.

Business

Cycle Pure Agarbathi Expands in Goa, Celebrating 77 Years of Fragrance, Heritage, and Purpose

Tanisha Cardozo

Goa, India – Cycle Pure Agarbathi, India’s leading agarbathi manufacturer, celebrates 77 years of fragrance, faith, and purpose as it expands its footprint across Goa. With a legacy that has enriched over six billion prayers worldwide, the brand continues to carry forward the spirit of Indian craftsmanship and devotion, blending tradition with innovation to create timeless experiences.

Founded in Mysuru, Cycle Pure Agarbathi has grown from a humble family enterprise into a global brand exporting to more than 75 countries. Its diverse range includes traditional agarbathies and contemporary wellness offerings under the IRIS Home Fragrances brand, now available across Goa through leading retail and quick commerce platforms. This expansion ensures that every home can experience the essence of purity, peace, and prayer with just a click.

Marking a milestone in its journey, Cycle Pure Agarbathi created history at the International Purple Fest Goa 2025 by unveiling and lighting a 125-feet agarbathi—the longest and most inclusive creation in its legacy. The event, graced by Dr. Pramod Sawant, Hon’ble Chief Minister of Goa, and other dignitaries, represented a beautiful convergence of tradition, inclusion, and innovation. The ceremonial lighting symbolized unity and celebration of diverse abilities at one of the world’s most inclusive cultural events.

Continuing its deep connection with art and culture, Cycle Pure Agarbathi recently collaborated with Kantara: Chapter 1, a PAN-Indian mythological action drama, as the official prayer partner. To commemorate this partnership, the brand launched the Three in One Parampara Agarbathi, a special edition inspired by Karnataka’s rich cultural heritage. Each stick in this collection is a blend of divine fragrance and devotion, offering an experience that embodies spiritual resonance and artistic tradition.

Speaking on the expansion, Mr. Arjun Ranga, Managing Director of Cycle Pure Agarbathi, said, “At Cycle Pure Agarbathi, we believe fragrance is a bridge between tradition and modern living. Our presence across all leading quick commerce platforms ensures that this sacred experience is just a click away—bringing purity, emotion, and heritage to homes instantly.”

Echoing the sentiment, Mr. Amarnath Datta, Chief Sales & Marketing Officer, added, “Goa represents a vibrant confluence of culture, spirituality, and modern living—values that deeply resonate with our brand. Through our Cycle and IRIS product lines and creative collaborations like Kantara, we’re not just offering fragrance; we’re creating immersive experiences that connect with hearts and homes.”

Sustainability remains at the heart of Cycle Pure’s philosophy. With zero carbon emissions across its production facilities, plastic-free packaging, and natural ingredient sourcing, the brand has built an environmentally responsible model that blends spirituality with stewardship. The company also continues to empower communities through its Gadchiroli Agarbatti Project (GAP)—a rural livelihood initiative launched in 2014 that has uplifted over 1,200 tribal women, tripling their average household income.

Cycle Pure Agarbathi invites Goans to explore its complete range—from traditional incense to modern wellness products—crafted to transform ordinary moments into soulful rituals. As the brand enters its 78th year, it continues to uphold its vision of purity, empowerment, and sustainability, carrying forward a legacy of fragrance that touches lives, connects cultures, and inspires generations.

International

Capt. Venzy Viegas Inspires Goans Abroad at World Goa Day 2025 in Kuwait

Tanisha Cardozo

The vibrant Goan community in Kuwait came together in a spirit of unity and pride to celebrate World Goa Day 2025, hosted by the Goan Cultural Centre–Kuwait. The event showcased Goa’s timeless traditions, music, and cultural diversity, while bringing together Goans from across the region under one banner of shared identity.

Among the special guests was AAP MLA Capt. Venzy Viegas, whose presence added significance to the occasion. During his visit, Capt. Viegas, along with Mr. Carmo Santos, President of the Goan Cultural Centre–Kuwait, paid a courtesy visit to Mr. Sanjay Muluka, Charge d’ Affairs and Officiating Ambassador at the Embassy of India in Kuwait. The discussion highlighted the invaluable role of the Goan diaspora in preserving Goa’s heritage, promoting its culture, and contributing to the state’s development from abroad.

Addressing a large gathering of Goans, Capt. Venzy Viegas expressed heartfelt admiration for their unwavering connection to their homeland. He said, “It was an absolute pleasure to meet Goans abroad. I request all Goans in Kuwait and across the world — let’s together preserve Goa’s Asmutai and build a Goa of our dreams for our Fudle Pilge Khatir (future generations).”

He lauded the Goan Cultural Centre–Kuwait for its efforts in keeping the spirit of Goa alive among the diaspora and for uniting Goans on one platform. The event reflected the powerful sense of belonging and pride that binds Goans across borders — a testament to their enduring love for Goa and its cultural essence.

Capt. Viegas also thanked the Goan community in Kuwait for their warmth, hospitality, and dedication to nurturing Goan culture, despite being miles away from their homeland. His message of “One Goa, One People” resonated deeply with the audience, reinforcing the collective spirit that defines Goans worldwide.

World Goa Day 2025 in Kuwait not only celebrated the state’s rich cultural heritage but also strengthened the bonds of community and identity that make Goa truly special — wherever Goans may be.

Music

DJ Snake Reveals Tracklist and Collaborations for Upcoming Album ‘Nomad’

Tanisha Cardozo

DJ Snake has officially revealed the full tracklist for his upcoming studio album Nomad, confirming an impressive roster of global collaborators and a bold new creative direction.

The French DJ and producer shared the details on Monday (October 27), teasing a mix of international sounds and high-profile partnerships. The album, which drops on November 7, includes features from Stray Kids, Travis Scott, J Balvin, Don Toliver, Future, Bipolar Sunshine, Amadou & Mariam, Bantu, and Space Laces, making it one of the most anticipated electronic releases of the year.

Among the confirmed tracks is Noventa featuring J Balvin, which has already been released as a single — marking the duo’s second collaboration after their 2019 hit Loco Contigo. Alongside the full tracklist, DJ Snake also unveiled the album artwork, reflecting the cross-cultural and nomadic spirit of the record.

Nomad will be released through DJ Snake’s newly established label, designed to highlight emerging artists and diversify the global electronic music landscape. The album was first announced during his record-breaking solo concert at Paris’ Stade de France in May, where he performed for a sold-out audience of 80,000 fans. Originally slated for September 5, the album was delayed, sparking online speculation after DJ Snake jokingly told fans via Discord that “NOMAD = NO DATE.”

The official Nomad tracklist includes:

  1. Noventa (feat. J Balvin)
  2. Company (feat. Bantu)
  3. Paradise (feat. Bipolar Sunshine)
  4. In The Dark (feat. Stray Kids)
  5. Something Wrong (feat. Don Toliver)
  6. Tsunami (feat. Future & Travis Scott)
  7. Patience (feat. Amadou & Mariam)
  8. Reloaded (feat. Space Laces)

This marks DJ Snake’s third studio album, following his 2019 release Carte Blanche, which produced global hits like Taki Taki, Loco Contigo, and Let Me Love You. With Nomad, DJ Snake continues his evolution as a boundary-pushing artist who thrives on collaboration and innovation, bringing together diverse musical cultures into a cohesive, dance-driven experience.

Nomad will be available on all major streaming platforms starting November 7, 2025.

International

Indian Expat Anilkumar Bolla Wins Record Dh100 Million UAE Lottery Jackpot

Tanisha Cardozo

The mystery winner of the UAE Lottery’s record-breaking Dh100 million jackpot has finally been revealed. The lucky winner is Anilkumar Bolla, a 29-year-old Indian expat and long-time Abu Dhabi resident, who has now become the UAE’s newest multimillionaire.

Anilkumar struck gold in the 23rd Lucky Day Draw #251018 held on October 18, according to the Khaleej Times. The jackpot was not shared, meaning Anilkumar will take home the entire Dh100 million — making it one of the biggest individual lottery wins in the UAE’s history. He matched all seven winning numbers, defying odds of 1 in 8.8 million.

Speaking to the media, Anilkumar shared his disbelief and joy upon receiving the life-changing call from the UAE Lottery team. “I was at home, relaxing, when they called. I was completely shocked and overjoyed. This win is beyond my wildest dreams. I kept asking them to repeat the message — it took time to sink in,” he said.

When asked about his plans for the massive prize, the Abu Dhabi resident said he intends to make wise investments and fulfil the dreams of his family. “I was just thinking about how to invest this amount in the right way. After winning, I felt like I have money — now I need to work on my thoughts in the right way. I want to do something big,” he said, adding that he hopes to buy a supercar and celebrate with his family at a luxury resort. “My mom and dad had very small dreams. I want to fulfil whatever dreams they have.”

Anilkumar’s win was part of a landmark night for the UAE Lottery, which also saw 10 other participants win Dh100,000 each. Since its launch, the UAE Lottery has created over 200 winners of Dh100,000 and distributed more than Dh147 million in total prizes to over one lakh players.

Scott Burton, Commercial Gaming Director of the UAE Lottery, congratulated Anilkumar on his historic win. “The Dh100,000,000 prize will not only change his life but also signify a remarkable milestone for The UAE Lottery, reinforcing our mission to uplift people’s lives while delivering exciting and responsible lottery experiences,” Burton said.

One of the most striking aspects of this win is that Anilkumar will receive the entire amount tax-free. The UAE does not impose income tax on lottery winnings. In contrast, if someone were to win ₹240 crore in India, the prize would be taxed at a flat 30%, plus a 15% surcharge and 4% Health and Education Cess — leaving the winner with roughly ₹154 crore after deductions.

For Anilkumar, however, the dream remains untaxed and unfiltered — a once-in-a-lifetime moment that turned a quiet day at home into a story the world is talking about.