World Travel Market Africa 2024 Elevates Cape Town as Epicenter of Global Travel

By Nithyakala Neelakandan

Published on April 14, 2024

World Travel Market Africa 2024 commenced with grandeur in Cape Town, South Africa, heralding a pivotal moment for the global travel and tourism industry. This prestigious event, held from Wednesday to Friday at the Cape Town International Conference Center, convened renowned figures and stakeholders to delve into cutting-edge discussions and seize lucrative business opportunities within the tourism sector.

Celebrating its 10th edition, WTM Africa showcased the region's diverse tourism offerings through an array of shows, conferences, and awards ceremonies. With over 9,500 pre-scheduled meetings and 7,000 delegates from 100 countries, the event emerged as a dynamic platform for tourism professionals, including exhibitors, buyers, and media, to engage in three days of fruitful trade, networking, and deal-making.

Megan De Jager, portfolio director for travel, tourism, and marketing at RX Africa, emphasized WTM Africa's role as a catalyst for generating sales leads, launching new products, and enhancing brand visibility. "WTM Africa serves as a crucial platform for B2B tourism companies to conduct market research, forge new relationships, and maintain existing ones," said De Jager.

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Since its inception in 2014, WTM Africa has played a pivotal role in driving economic growth, creating over 17,000 jobs and attracting more than 18,000 exhibitors, according to the City of Cape Town. Alderman JP Smith, mayoral committee member for safety and security, reiterated the city's commitment to supporting Africa Travel Week until 2025, citing the event's significant contribution to Cape Town's economy and global prominence.

WTM Africa 2024 captivated attendees with its vibrant atmosphere, thought-provoking discussions, and high-profile participants, establishing itself as a premier platform for B2B networking and collaboration across Africa and beyond. 

Innovations in travel technology took center stage, with companies showcasing the latest booking systems, virtual reality tours, and customer relationship management tools. 

Sustainability and inclusivity emerged as key themes, with sessions dedicated to promoting environmentally friendly practices and ensuring accessibility for all travelers. Discussions centered on minimizing environmental impact, preserving cultural heritage, and fostering economic empowerment within local communities.

As WTM Africa 2024 drew to a close, attendees reflected on the event's transformative impact on the travel and tourism industry. The knowledge exchanged, partnerships forged, and innovations showcased have set a new standard for industry events, propelling the sector into a new era of growth and exploration.


Coolberg’s ‘No Rules, Just Cool’ Campaign Speaks Gen Z’s Language

By Nishang Narayan

Published on April 18, 2025

Coolberg, India’s leading non-alcoholic beer brand, has just dropped a campaign that’s as fearless and refreshing as its drinks. Titled “No Rules, Just Cool,” the campaign celebrates individuality, quirk, and the spirit of doing your own thing—just the way Gen Z likes it.

In a world shaped by social filters and rulebooks, Coolberg throws the script out the window. The campaign is more than just a marketing push—it’s a mindset. From bold relationship advice to powerful messaging around authenticity, it encourages people to be unapologetically themselves. Because for Coolberg, cool isn’t about fitting in—it’s about standing out.

Rolling out across platforms like Snapchat, Spotify, Meta, and top OTT channels, the campaign connects with young audiences where they are. And the message is clear: “The best rebounds aren’t people. They’re mindset shifts.”

“Coolberg is the ultimate drink for Gen Z as it's fun, inclusive and unique,” says Shubham Shukla, Head – Marketing at Ghodawat Consumer Limited. “With No Rules, Just Cool, we aim to align with Gen Z’s mindset—a generation that thrives on authenticity, individuality, and freedom of expression. We’re not just selling a beverage; we’re building a culture.”

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Coolberg’s journey has been nothing short of dynamic. Acquired in 2022 by Ghodawat Consumer Limited (GCL), a key player in India’s FMCG space, Coolberg quickly scaled up. Today, it's available in over 50,000 retail outlets across 150 cities and exported to 15+ countries. The brand is also served at major fast food chains like KFC, Barbeque Nation, and WoW Momos, and is listed on Blinkit, Zepto, Swiggy Instamart, Flipkart Minutes, and Amazon.

About Ghodawat Consumer Limited (GCL)

GCL, the FMCG arm of Sanjay Ghodawat Group, has been redefining everyday consumption with its wide range of products under the ‘Star’ brand—covering everything from cooking oils and atta to snacks and beverages. Its premium portfolio includes TBH (a real veggie snack brand) and Coolberg.

About Sanjay Ghodawat Group (SGG)

Founded in 1993, SGG is a diversified conglomerate with interests in aviation, education, retail, energy, and more. With over 10,000 employees and 21,000+ students across institutions, SGG continues to impact lives with its innovation-driven approach and commitment to excellence.


PM Modi Inaugurates India’s First Vertical Lift Sea Bridge in Rameswaram

By Nishang Narayan

Published on April 7, 2025

Prime Minister Narendra Modi marked a historic moment on the occasion of Ram Navami by inaugurating India’s first vertical lift sea bridge—the new Pamban Bridge—in Rameswaram, Tamil Nadu. The event was accompanied by the launch of the Rameswaram–Tambaram Express, a new train service enhancing connectivity between the temple town and Chennai.

Built at a cost of over ₹550 crore, the 2.08-kilometre-long bridge connects Rameswaram Island to mainland India and features a 72.5-metre vertical lift span that can rise up to 17 metres, allowing ships to pass smoothly without disrupting train movement. Designed by Rail Vikas Nigam Limited (RVNL), this modern engineering marvel replaces the iconic British-era Pamban Bridge, which served pilgrims and traders for over a century since 1914.

The new structure incorporates advanced materials like stainless steel reinforcements, high-grade protective coatings, and fully welded joints, making it highly durable and corrosion-resistant. Capable of handling speeds up to 80 kmph, the bridge is designed for a 100-year lifespan and supports dual rail tracks for future traffic needs.

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PM Modi also flagged off a Coast Guard ship that sailed beneath the elevated span during the event, showcasing the bridge's sea-lift functionality. Visuals of the first train crossing the newly inaugurated bridge added to the symbolic significance of the day, as the event coincided with the “Surya Tilak” celebration in Ayodhya—an alignment the Prime Minister referred to as a “divine coincidence.”

Notable dignitaries present at the ceremony included Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw, Tamil Nadu Governor RN Ravi, and state Finance Minister Thangam Thennarasu. The absence of Chief Minister MK Stalin was noted. PM Modi had just returned from a three-day visit to Sri Lanka and received a warm welcome from local leaders, including Union Minister L Murugan and BJP Tamil Nadu chief K Annamalai.

With improved connectivity and a future-ready design, the new Pamban Bridge is poised to become a key gateway to South India's spiritual tourism circuit, while also strengthening regional infrastructure.


Kadak Surve – Chai Bhari: Society Tea Unveils Power-Packed Ad Film Featuring Riteish Deshmukh

By Nishang Narayan

Published on February 26, 2025

Society Tea, a brand deeply rooted in Maharashtra’s tea culture, has launched its latest ad campaign, ‘Kadak Surve – Chai Bhari’, starring Bollywood actor Riteish Deshmukh. The film pays homage to the bold and full-bodied essence of kadak chai, a favorite across the state.

The campaign introduces Riteish Deshmukh as Kadak Surve, a fearless cop who embodies the spirit of kadakness. Shot in Marathi and Hindi, the ad film reflects the deep-rooted love for strong, dust tea in Maharashtra, with high-energy storytelling, dynamic visuals, and a compelling narrative.

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A Tribute to Maharashtra’s Love for Chai

"Kadak chai is more than just a beverage—it's an emotion," said Karan Shah, Director, Society Tea. "With ‘Kadak Surve – Chai Bhari,’ we wanted to encapsulate the strength and energy that a cup of our dust tea delivers. Riteish Deshmukh brings this vision to life with his dynamic presence, making this campaign truly bhari!"

The power-packed ad film is now live across Meta and YouTube, inviting chai lovers to experience the boldness of Society Tea’s dust tea.

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