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By Manu Vardhan Kannan
Published on June 28, 2025
Indian cinema legend Kamal Haasan has been extended an invitation to join the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, the prestigious body that votes for the annual Oscar Awards. With this, Kamal Haasan becomes only the second Indian actor ever to receive such an honor, following Suriya, who was invited in 2022.
This significant recognition highlights Haasan’s immense contribution to the world of filmmaking and global cinema. The Academy’s invite to Haasan comes as part of its 2025 class of 534 global members, drawn from various disciplines such as acting, directing, cinematography, and costume design.
Kamal Haasan has been invited under the “Actors” category, with his critically acclaimed works like Nayakan and Vikram cited as part of his artistic legacy. Known for his versatility and deep impact on Indian cinema over several decades, this honor further cements his place on the global stage.
Among the new Indian names invited this year is Bollywood actor Ayushmann Khurrana, best known for his roles in films like Andhadhun. His inclusion as a co-voter is seen as a nod to his unique film choices and growing global recognition.
This year’s list reflects growing Indian representation, with other invitees including:
Payal Kapadia – Filmmaker
Smriti Mundra – Documentary Filmmaker
Maxima Basu – Costume Designer
Ranabir Das – Cinematographer
Nandini Shrikent – Casting Director
Their inclusion showcases the rising visibility of Indian talent across multiple disciplines in global cinema.
According to the Academy, the membership process is by invitation only. Individuals are typically nominated by two current members from their professional category. However, Oscar nominees are automatically considered for membership in the year of their nomination. The selection emphasizes diversity, inclusion, and global representation.
The 2025 class includes:
41% women
45% from underrepresented groups
55% from 60 countries outside the U.S.
91 Oscar nominees, including 26 winners
The Academy’s invitee list also features several global celebrities such as Ariana Grande, Sebastian Stan, Gillian Anderson, Jason Momoa, and Jeremy Strong, reflecting its inclusive and diverse outlook.
The 2026 Oscars will be held on March 15, hosted by comedian Conan O’Brien. Final nominations voting will take place between January 12–16, and the official nominations will be announced on January 22.
Recently, Kamal Haasan starred in Thug Life, a gangster drama directed by Mani Ratnam. While their previous collaboration Nayakan is considered a cinematic classic, Thug Life received a lukewarm response at the box office.
With this prestigious recognition, Kamal Haasan once again proves that his influence transcends borders, bringing Indian cinema closer to the global spotlight.
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Published on December 9, 2025
HollyBelly has forayed into the retail space through a new partnership with DLF Hospitality and Max Estates, marking a major step forward for the brand. Known for its handcrafted foods and thoughtful culinary creations, HollyBelly now aims to bring its signature flavours closer to everyday consumers. The new retail space will showcase an elegant selection of products, including small-batch sauces, condiments, freshly baked items, and globally inspired delicacies.
Over the years, HollyBelly has grown into a Pan-India and global food and beverage brand offering a complete set of culinary solutions. From gourmet catering and curated gifting to B2B meal services, consulting, and modern event spaces, the brand has built a strong reputation for blending emotion, elegance, and expertise. Its philosophy is deeply rooted in the “Food by Mood” concept, where menus are crafted to reflect moments and experiences.
Drawing from French, British, and regional Indian techniques, HollyBelly brings both authenticity and adaptability to its offerings. The brand goes beyond the typical idea of a catering service, providing specialised B2B food solutions tailored for businesses across industries. This includes corporate food services, café and restaurant supply, artisanal bread and viennoiserie production, bulk meal preparation, custom menu development, and retail-ready product creation and packaging.
With convenient pick-up points and a menu inspired by Indian traditions, HollyBelly offers handcrafted bowls, sandwiches, smoothies, and coffee designed for consumers who seek quality without compromising convenience. The brand positions itself where tradition meets speed while maintaining freshness and flavour.
The company is led by founders with strong global influence. Founder Janeya Mehta, an alumnus of the London School of Economics and a trained classical dancer, brings a deep focus on sustainability and ethical sourcing. Her leadership has shaped HollyBelly’s vision, earning her recognition including a Forbes 40 Under 40 honour. Co-Founder and Executive Chef Rishikant Bharadwaj, trained at Le Cordon Bleu London, brings modern French and British culinary techniques to the brand. His experience spans leading kitchens in Australia and well-known Indian establishments such as Le Bistro du Parc and ATM.
With a growing presence across India and international collaborations, HollyBelly has become a trusted partner for some of the world’s leading brands. Its client list includes Facebook, Adidas, Sephora, Ritu Kumar, Coach, BMW, Jimmy Choo, Pernia’s Pop-Up, and others. Sustainability remains a key pillar, reflected in their commitment to eco-friendly menus, waste reduction, and sourcing local ingredients.
Through its entry into retail, HollyBelly continues to expand its vision of offering complete, end-to-end culinary experiences while staying rooted in thoughtful food, innovative techniques, and modern consumer needs.
The Golden Tusk, an experiential and family-friendly nature resort on the southern boundary of Jim Corbett National Park, has announced its festive holiday line-up for the year-end season. The resort will host its Christmas Weekend Celebration from 23 to 26 December and the signature New Year Nature Carnival from 30 December to 1 January, offering one of the region’s most engaging nature-meets-luxury holiday experiences.
The three-day Christmas program has been curated to bring a nostalgic and warm festive feel. Guests can start their day with mindful village walks and yoga sessions, while children can enjoy a range of creative workshops such as pebble painting, origami, craft activities using waste materials and Christmas-themed art sessions. Evenings carry a cosy, celebratory atmosphere with bonfires, live flautists, duo bands and elaborate buffet spreads at The Golden Forest restaurant. Christmas Eve brings special moments with Santa’s arrival, carols, plum cake distribution and a lively round of Tambola, creating a beautiful community-style celebration.
Anirudh Lakhotia, Director, Ivory Destinations, said “This year, we wanted to deliver more than a holiday, we wanted to create moments that feel grounding, joyful and truly memorable. Every element of our Christmas and New Year programs is designed to bring families closer to nature and closer to each other. From sunrise walks and plantation drives to gala dinners and musical nights; these retreats offer a refreshing blend of relaxation and celebration.”
The New Year Nature Carnival brings a more vibrant and energetic itinerary. Guests can enjoy unplugged live band performances, intimate guitarist evenings, magic shows for children, mocktail-making sessions and a traditional Folk Dance performance on 1 January. The highlight remains the Family Fun Carnival on the main lawn, followed by a Gala Dinner and Musical Night at The Hive. The New Year countdown and the annual raffle, where one guest wins a complimentary holiday package for 2026, add to the festive excitement.
Accommodation options include Garden Suites, Nature View Suites, Luxury Tents, Pool View Suites, Corbett Suites, Private Pool Villas and the spacious Tiger Suite for larger groups. Christmas packages and New Year packages are offered across categories, including premium options such as the Jungle Spring Villa with a private jacuzzi and the Waterhole Villa with a private pool.
Staying true to its nature-first philosophy, The Golden Tusk has woven eco-learning and mindful bonding into its festive programs. Children can participate in plantation drives, craft sessions and guided games, while adults can relax among landscaped greens, bonfires and warm hospitality, elements that have made the resort a preferred choice for many returning guests.
Located close to the Jhirna and Dhela safari zones, the resort continues to promote holidays that combine the calmness of nature with modern comforts. With rising demand for the 2025 festive season, The Golden Tusk is positioning its holiday retreats as an ideal year-end escape for families and leisure travellers seeking meaningful experiences.
Each New Year package includes eight premium-brand alcoholic drink coupons, unlimited soft beverages, chef’s-choice snacks during evening programs, complimentary carnival coupons and complete entertainment over the two nights. All stays include breakfast, lunch and dinner buffets featuring regional and multi-cuisine menus. The child policy remains family-friendly, with complimentary stays for children up to five years, while ages 6–11 are charged at 25% and ages 12+ at 35% of the package.
By Hariharan U
The Institute of Bakery & Culinary Arts (IBCA), a leading centre for bakery and culinary education in India, has announced scholarships worth ₹1,00,000 for students enrolling in its programs for 2026. The initiative aims to support over 400 aspiring chefs from across the country, helping them pursue diploma and certification courses in the culinary field.
The scholarship amount ranges from ₹25,000 to ₹1,00,000, depending on the course and eligibility criteria. Through this programme, IBCA aims to make professional culinary education more accessible to passionate learners.
IBCA offers a wide selection of industry-aligned programs that meet global standards. The courses include an 18-month Advanced Diploma in Culinary Arts (Level 3), 18-month Advanced Diploma in Pastry (Level 3), 12-month Diploma in Culinary Arts (Level 2), 12-month Diploma in Pastry Arts (Level 2), a four-month Certificate Course in Pastry (Level 1), along with specialised hobby programs in both culinary and pastry arts. Each course follows an international curriculum and focuses on strong practical exposure.
The institute is affiliated with globally recognised organisations, including City & Guilds (UK), the Confederation of Tourism & Hospitality (London), the Tourism and Hospitality Skill Council (India) and the National Skills Development Corporation (NSDC). With these partnerships, students gain access to structured training, certification and placement opportunities with leading hotels and restaurants. Final placements are offered after rigorous trials and interviews.
Through this scholarship initiative, IBCA further strengthens its commitment to building future culinary talent and ensuring that deserving candidates can access world-class training.
Last Date to Apply: 25th December 2025
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