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By Manu Vardhan Kannan
Published on August 20, 2025
Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International Airport (IGIA) has achieved a historic milestone by joining the elite ‘100-million-plus’ club of global airports, with an annual passenger-handling capacity of 109 million. This puts IGIA among only six airports worldwide with such capacity, and apart from Tokyo Haneda, it is the only one in Asia to hold this distinction. Operated by Delhi International Airport Limited (DIAL), the airport reached this milestone in May 2023 following the full operationalisation of Terminal 1, and closed 2024 with the increased capacity.
To further enhance its capabilities, plans are underway to modernise and rebuild Terminal 2. This expansion marks another chapter in India’s rapidly growing aviation sector, which has seen significant transformation in the past decade under national initiatives like PM GatiShakti, the National Logistics Policy, Bharatmala, Sagarmala, and UDAN.
According to an official report, India now has 162 operational airports, including heliports and water aerodromes, compared to just 74 in 2014. The aviation industry handled 412 million passengers in 2024-2025, with 335 million domestic and 77 million international travellers, showing a 9 per cent rise from the previous year.
The UDAN scheme, launched in 2016, has been a key driver in regional connectivity and affordable air travel. So far, 637 RCS routes have been operationalised, including 15 heliports and two water aerodromes, linking 92 underserved and unserved airports. These budget-friendly flights have carried more than 1.51 crore passengers.
Highlighting the sector’s rapid growth, Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu stated at the Northern Region Ministers' Conference that India has seen 88 new airports in just a decade, equivalent to nearly one new airport every 40 days. Additionally, air connectivity has expanded with 60 new flights every hour. The minister affirmed that air travel in India is now more accessible, affordable, and widespread, ensuring inclusive aviation growth through state-specific strategies.
With IGIA’s inclusion in the global 100-million-plus club, India has further cemented its place on the world aviation map, showcasing a vibrant and fast-growing sector that continues to strengthen connectivity across the nation and beyond.
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By Hariharan U
Published on May 16, 2026
Alia Bhatt made a striking appearance at the 79th edition of the Cannes Film Festival, wearing bespoke sapphire and diamond jewellery from Malabar Gold and Diamonds, blending refined craftsmanship with contemporary elegance on one of the world’s most celebrated red carpets.
Styled in a custom ensemble by Rhea Kapoor, Alia paired her Cannes look with a curated selection of high jewellery pieces featuring Ceylon sapphires and diamonds from the jewellery brand’s premium collection.
The jewellery edit showcased statement earrings, sapphire rings, and a diamond pendant crafted with contemporary detailing and precision artistry. Together, the pieces reflected a balance of sophistication, gemstone craftsmanship, and understated luxury.
Among the standout creations were the White Quartz Briolette Earrings, featuring 3-carat pear-shaped earrings designed with fluid white quartz briolettes that moved elegantly with light and motion.
Adding depth to the overall styling were statement rings including the Ceylon Sapphire Oval Ring, centred around an 8-carat oval Ceylon sapphire surrounded by brilliant round diamonds, enhancing the gemstone’s rich ocean-blue tones and brilliance.
The look also featured the Pear-Shaped Ceylon Sapphire Ring, showcasing 8.8 carats of Ceylon sapphire designed to resemble a falling raindrop, highlighting remarkable clarity and depth.
Completing the ensemble was the Pear-Shaped Diamond Pendant, featuring a 4-carat pear-shaped diamond suspended in a minimal and refined setting, creating a graceful stream of reflected light.
The Cannes appearance further highlighted Malabar Gold & Diamonds’ continued focus on fine craftsmanship, gemstone quality, and modern design interpretation, while also reinforcing the growing global presence of Indian jewellery artistry across international fashion and cultural platforms.
Commenting on the collaboration, M. P. Ahammad said, “Cannes Film Festival represents a global platform where fashion, artistry, and craftsmanship come together. Through this collaboration with Alia Bhatt, we wanted to present jewellery that reflects timeless elegance while showcasing the finesse and design excellence associated with Malabar Gold & Diamonds.”
Founded in 1993, Malabar Gold & Diamonds is the flagship company of the Malabar Group and currently operates over 445 showrooms across 14 countries. The brand continues to expand its global footprint through a strong focus on luxury craftsmanship, international design sensibilities, and socially responsible business practices.
Alia Bhatt’s Cannes 2026 appearance marks another milestone for the brand as Indian luxury and jewellery craftsmanship continue gaining visibility on global fashion platforms.
Adani Airport Holdings Limited (AAHL) and IHG Hotels & Resorts have entered into a major partnership to develop five hotels across important airport-linked and fast-growing urban destinations in India. The agreement will add close to 1,500 rooms and marks a significant step in strengthening hospitality infrastructure around India’s expanding aviation network.
One of the biggest highlights of the partnership is the India debut of Kimpton Hotels & Restaurants, which will open its first property in Jaipur. Alongside this, additional properties under Holiday Inn and Holiday Inn Express brands will be introduced as part of mixed-use developments connected to Adani Airport cities.
The planned projects will be spread across Jaipur, Navi Mumbai, Mangaluru, and Thiruvananthapuram. The collaboration reflects the increasing demand for hospitality services around airport-led developments and growing urban centres. Reports also suggest that AAHL and IHG are in advanced discussions to further expand their partnership.
Kimpton’s entry into India brings a globally recognised lifestyle hospitality brand known for its boutique experiences and design-led approach. Its launch signals the rising demand for premium hospitality experiences, especially around airports and urban developments.
The expansion also comes at a time when India’s aviation and tourism sectors continue to witness strong growth. Increasing passenger traffic and business travel are driving the need for integrated airport ecosystems that go beyond transport and include hospitality, retail, and commercial spaces.
Speaking on the development, Pranav Adani, Director, Adani Enterprises Limited, said: “As the Adani Group expands its presence across hospitality and airport-led urban infrastructure, our vision is to create world-class destinations that seamlessly integrate travel, stay and urban experiences around India’s rapidly growing aviation ecosystem. We are building this platform in partnership with leading international hotel brands that bring global standards, operational excellence and scale. Our collaboration with IHG Hotels & Resorts, and the development of five hotels across key gateway destinations, marks an important step in strengthening high-quality hospitality infrastructure aligned with India’s long-term travel and economic growth.”
AAHL continues to build airport city developments that combine aviation, hospitality, retail, and commercial infrastructure. Its airport city projects currently span around 663 acres across multiple locations with a focus on long-term urban growth and passenger experience.
Commenting on the partnership, Sudeep Jain, Managing Director, South West Asia, IHG Hotels & Resorts, said: “The partnership with Adani Airport Holdings reflects the scale of opportunity we continue to see in India’s hospitality sector, particularly across gateway cities and airport-led developments that are witnessing strong demand from business, leisure and transit travellers alike. With a mix of luxury, premium and essentials brands, this portfolio allows us to meaningfully strengthen our presence across high-growth markets across the country. This agreement also marks an important milestone for us with the introduction of Kimpton Hotels & Restaurants to India.”
IHG Hotels & Resorts currently operates 52 hotels across six brands in India and has a pipeline of 98 more properties expected to open over the next three to five years.
With busy schedules and fast-moving city life becoming a daily reality, many couples are now looking for meaningful breaks that help them slow down and spend quality time together. Quiet surroundings, privacy, and experiences that encourage genuine connection are becoming more valuable than long-distance travel plans.
Keeping this growing travel trend in mind, The Serai Resorts has introduced a curated collection of romantic drive-to getaways designed especially for couples. Located within comfortable driving distance from Bengaluru and Mysuru, the boutique luxury properties in Kabini, Bandipur, and Chikmagalur offer private and immersive experiences for those looking for a refreshing escape.
A key highlight of the offering is the specially designed Forever in Love package. Starting at ₹56,000 plus taxes and available for both two-night and three-night stays, the package has been created to bring together luxury and intimate experiences. Couples can enjoy a romantic dining setup within the privacy of their room, sparkling wine, handcrafted chocolates, candle-lit turndown décor, and a celebratory cake. Guests also receive a 10% savings benefit on spa and bar services.
At The Serai Kabini, couples can relax beside the peaceful Kabini backwaters while enjoying experiences that combine nature and comfort. Activities include nature walks, coracle rides, kayaking, and boat and land safaris. The experience is further enhanced with private BBQ dining arrangements and 30-minute spa therapies at the doorstep, offering moments of privacy and relaxation.
For travellers who prefer cooler weather and scenic landscapes, The Serai Chikmagalur presents a serene retreat set amid lush coffee plantations. Recognised as India’s Best Staycation at the India’s Best Awards 2025 by Travel + Leisure, the property features spacious villas with private pools designed for uninterrupted relaxation. Guests can explore guided plantation walks, cycling trails, and peaceful outdoor experiences or simply spend quiet moments together within their private villa. Personalised BBQ experiences and doorstep spa treatments add to the overall experience.
At The Serai Bandipur, couples can enjoy a stay close to nature on the edge of Bandipur National Park. Surrounded by forest landscapes and wildlife, the resort offers opportunities to spot deer near private log huts and experience guided safaris and outdoor adventures. The stay also includes private BBQ dining and spa therapies, blending nature, adventure, and comfort.
From the calm backwaters of Kabini and the misty hills of Chikmagalur to the wilderness of Bandipur, The Serai Resorts offers couples a chance to enjoy intimate and memorable experiences without travelling too far from the city.
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