Nature’s Basket Opens Bangalore’s Largest Artisan Pantry Store; Its First And Fourth Nationwide, With Bollywood Star Karisma Kapoor

Nature’s Basket, India’s leading premium grocery retailer and part of the RPSG Group, proudly unveiled its first flagship Artisan Pantry store in Bangalore today. Inaugurated by Bollywood icon Karisma Kapoor, the new 10,500 sq. ft. gourmet destination stands as a testament to the brand’s commitment to bringing curated culinary experiences to life. This marks the ninth store in Bangalore and the 35th nationwide. Nature's Basket continues to strengthen its presence as a pioneer in luxury grocery retail across the country.

The Bangalore flagship store sets a new benchmark in luxury retail, offering an immersive and unparalleled shopping experience that combines global sophistication with local artistry. Unique to this store are several first-in-class features designed to captivate every shopper’s interest, including a Live Kombucha Bar with refreshing kombucha on tap, a Vegan Patisserie offering decadent plant-based desserts, a Live Cookie Corner with warm cookies baked fresh, Live Kunafa & Baklava showcasing authentic Middle Eastern treats, a Millet Café serving wholesome millet creations, and an Organic Snacking Counter with tasty, premium snacks. The indulgence continues with a luxurious Soft-serve corner and the Gelato Atelier, offering international flavors that redefine dessert cravings.

Enhancing its gourmet offerings, the store boasts the widest range of cheese in the country, featuring rare and exotic cheeses from over 50 countries, delivered in an unimaginable time gap for a truly global and flavorful experience. An exotic fruits and vegetables section brings global freshness to Bangalore, including items making their debut in India. The truffle bar celebration showcases luxurious culinary creations for true connoisseurs. Adding to the elegance, the store also features fresh flowers, potted herbs

To elevate the experience, the store offers an exclusive selection of premium cigars and a meticulously curated range of bar accessories, designed to satisfy the refined tastes of our distinguished guests. Additionally, an expansive collection of premium wines and liquors is available, carefully crafted for the discerning aficionado.

Shashwat Goenka, Chairman of Spencer’s Retail and Nature’s Basket, commented, “The opening of our first flagship Artisan Pantry store in Bangalore represents a significant strategic milestone for Nature’s Basket. This flagship store responds directly to Bangalore’s growing appetite for premium, curated culinary experiences. By blending the best of global gourmet offerings with local preferences, we are confident that this flagship will not only elevate Bangalore’s retail landscape but also set new benchmarks in the premium grocery sector. Our commitment to expanding Nature’s Basket’s footprint with such innovative concepts is part of our larger vision to redefine luxury retail in India.”

Returning for another launch, Karisma Kapoor expresses her excitement “I love how it brings together the finest ingredients from around the world. It’s an honor to inaugurate this beautiful flagship store in Bangalore and share this incredible experience with the city’s passionate food lovers.”

The store’s focus sections include the Spice Souk, Salt Bar, and Honey Bar, alongside experiential zones such as The Good Food Café, Chef’s Table, and Nibb’s Chocolate Factory, which features custom chocolate creations. From gourmet connoisseurs to health-conscious shoppers, the flagship store offers something extraordinary for everyone, creating an environment where food lovers can truly “taste the world.”

Nature’s Basket’s expansion into Bangalore with its first flagship store reflects its commitment to creating exceptional culinary experiences, pushing boundaries, and offering its patrons the very best in gourmet retail.

Masters of Marriott Bonvoy And Culinary Culture Present ‘The Power Play’ - A Celebration Of Culinary Excellence With India’s Leading Chefs

 

* In collaboration with top culinary connoisseurs, these exclusive, limited-seating dinners will take place at The Ritz-Carlton hotels in Pune and Bengaluru.

Masters of Marriott Bonvoy, and Culinary Culture, are set to announce ‘The Power Play’; an experiential dining showcase that elevates multi-cultural cuisines in collaboration with India’s leading chefs. The limited-seating five-course degustation menu, combining authentic regional flavours will take place at The Ritz Carlton, Pune on 30th November followed by The Ritz-Carlton, Bengaluru on 7th December, 2024.

These exclusive dinners promise a symphony of flavours, with each chef crafting a single course that embodies their distinctive cuisine and signature culinary artistry. Guests will be treated to an extraordinary lineup, featuring the culinary brilliance of six maestros. Here’s a glimpse into the visionaries behind this gastronomic journey:

Chef Doma Wang, The Blue Poppy, Kolkata- Celebrated for her mastery of Tibetan cuisine, brings the heart and soul of the Himalayas to your plate.

Chef Mythrayie Iyer, Farmlore, Bengaluru - Takes diners on a culinary journey across India, championing its vast and diverse palette with her creative flair and farm to table approach.

Chef Vanshika Bhatia, Omo Café, Gurgaon - Infuses her dishes with the elegance and finesse of European flavors, blending tradition with innovation.

Chef Pooja Dhingra, Founder of Le 15 - Elevates the art of pastry with her signature creations that are as indulgent as they are unforgettable.

Adding a unique twist, Chef Seefah Ketchaiyo, Seefah, Mumbai- Will infuse the Pune event with the vibrant and authentic essence of Thai cuisine. Meanwhile, Chef Nooresha Kably, Izumi, Mumbai- Will delight guests in Bengaluru with her inventive take on Japanese dishes, bringing a modern twist to classic flavours.

As a prelude to the dinners, Masters of Marriott Bonvoy and Culinary Culture will host exclusive fireside chats with the Chefs in both cities. In the company of culinary experts, connoisseurs and influential guests, the discussion will engage the culinary maestros in conversations around the diversity and rising culinary talent in the industry, and the growing appetite for multi-cultural cuisine among Indians. This will be followed by exclusive dinners at The Ritz-Carlton Pune on 30th November, and The Ritz-Carlton Bangalore on 7th December. Guests can join the waitlist for these exclusive experiences using the links

In anticipation of these exquisite dining experiences, Khushnooma Kapadia – Vice President of Marketing, South Asia, Marriott International- "India’s rich culinary heritage reflects its vibrant cultural diversity, and as a nation, we are constantly redefining our food preferences. Through Masters of Marriott Bonvoy, we strive to bring innovative dining experiences to life by collaborating with trailblazers in the culinary world. This initiative, in collaboration with Culinary Culture, celebrates the extraordinary talent of six master chefs from India, offering Marriott Bonvoy members an exclusive opportunity to indulge in a unique blend of traditional and contemporary flavours. By spotlighting these immensely talented chefs, we hope to inspire the next generation of women in hospitality while setting a new benchmark for culinary excellence."

Raaj Sanghvi, CEO, Culinary Culture adds, “It’s an incredible honour to unite the talent and creativity of some of India’s most exceptional chefs, each flying in from across the country to collaborate for this unique 10 hand experience. Over the years, in partnership with Masters of Marriott Bonvoy, we’ve had the privilege of bringing some of the world’s finest chefs to India. However, this event, celebrating the brilliance of our own top culinary maestros, holds an especially meaningful place and we hope to take it around the country going forward.”

About Marriott Bonvoy®

Marriott Bonvoy, Marriott International’s award-winning travel program and marketplace, gives members access to transformative, eye-opening experiences around the corner and across the globe. Marriott Bonvoy’s portfolio of more than 30 extraordinary hotel brands offers renowned hospitality in the most memorable destinations in the world. Members can earn points for stays at hotels and resorts, including all-inclusive resorts and premium home rentals, as well as through everyday purchases with co-branded credit cards. Members can redeem their points for experiences including future stays, Marriott Bonvoy Moments™, or through partners for luxurious products from Marriott Bonvoy Boutiques®. With the Marriott Bonvoy app, members enjoy a level of personalization and contactless experience that allows them to travel with peace of mind. To enroll for free or for more information about Marriott Bonvoy, visit marriottbonvoy.com. To download the Marriott Bonvoy app, go here. Travelers can also connect with Marriott Bonvoy on Facebook, X, Instagram and TikTok.

About Culinary Culture

Culinary Culture stands out as the leading authority on food in India. Founded by Vir Sanghvi and Sameer Sain, and guided by CEO Raaj Sanghvi, it represents a comprehensive movement that covers every aspect of the culinary scene in the country. As the nation's sole authoritative and independent rating organization, Culinary Culture introduced The Ultimate Restaurant Ratings, awarding Ultimate Stars to India's top restaurants. Through its popular IPs, It also celebrates the outstanding chefs of India and pays homage to the vibrant street food vendors across the country. Culinary Culture is renowned for its global Culinary Exchanges, inviting world-renowned chefs to showcase their skills in India while sending talented Indian chefs to cook at some of the world's best restaurants. Past events have featured culinary icons such as Massimo Bottura, Mauro Colagreco, Daniel Humm, Virgilio Martinez, Alain Ducasse and Dani Garcia, among others.

Instagram: @CulinaryCultureCo | Website: www.CulinaryCulture.co

Manipal Institute of Virology Recognized As ICMR Collaborating Center of Excellence: A Achievement In Biomedical Research And Public Health

In a groundbreaking achievement for India’s scientific and healthcare communities, the Manipal Institute of Virology (MIV) has been recognized as an ICMR Collaborating Center of Excellence (ICMR-CCoE) by the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR). This prestigious designation underscores MIV’s leadership in virology research, its advanced diagnostic capabilities, and its pivotal role in fostering interdisciplinary collaborations at both national and international levels. The recognition cements MIV’s status as a critical contributor to strengthening India’s biomedical research ecosystem and addressing the nation’s pressing public health challenges.

The recognition as an ICMR-CCoE is a testament to MIV’s outstanding contributions to the field of virology, particularly in the study of emerging infectious diseases, viral diagnostics, and vaccine development. Under the visionary leadership of Dr. Chiranjay Mukhopadhyay, Professor and Director of MIV, the Institute has achieved remarkable milestones in research, diagnostics, and collaboration. Lt Gen (Dr) M D Venkatesh, VSM (Retd), Vice Chancellor, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal "Manipal Institute of Virology's recognition as an ICMR Collaborating Center of Excellence is a momentous achievement that underscores our commitment to advancing biomedical research and public health. This distinction reflects the hard work, dedication, and innovation of our team, and reinforces Manipal Academy of Higher Education's leadership in shaping the future of medical research and healthcare solutions. We are proud to contribute to global health advancements and look forward to fostering collaborations that will have a lasting impact on society”

"Being recognized as an ICMR Collaborating Center of Excellence is a significant milestone for the Manipal Institute of Virology. This honor reflects our unwavering commitment to advancing virology research, strengthening diagnostic capabilities, and addressing public health challenges through collaboration and innovation. As we step into this new role, we aim to contribute even more effectively to India’s health research ecosystem, foster global partnerships, and train the next generation of scientists to tackle emerging infectious diseases and other critical health issues. Together, we can build a healthier, more resilient future”, said Dr. Chiranjay Mukhopadhyay.

One of the key advantages of being designated an ICMR-CCoE is the opportunity for expanded collaborations. MIV has a long history of partnering with leading research institutions, healthcare organizations, and universities across India and abroad. These partnerships have driven its research agenda and ensured that its findings are both scientifically rigorous and aligned with public health needs.

Through its expertise in virology, MIV will play a critical role in disease surveillance, outbreak management, and vaccine development, particularly for diseases like influenza, hepatitis, and other viral infections that pose significant threats to public health. By providing evidence-based research, the Institute will support the development of national health policies and strategies tailored to India’s unique epidemiological landscape.

With the ICMR-CCoE recognition, the Manipal Institute of Virology is positioned to play a pivotal role in advancing India’s status as a global leader in biomedical research. This milestone highlights India’s growing prominence in the global health landscape and reaffirms the country’s commitment to addressing both national and international health challenges.

As MIV continues its work in virology research, public health, and scientific collaboration, the Institute is set to make lasting contributions to the global fight against infectious diseases, ensuring a healthier future for all.

Teeling Whiskey Launches Small Batch Classic Exclusively In India

* A bespoke Irish whiskey expression crafted exclusively for Indian whisky consumers

Teeling Whiskey, the pioneering, award-winning Irish whiskey producer renowned for its innovation and craftsmanship, is proud to announce the launch of Teeling Small Batch Classic, a bespoke Irish whiskey expression crafted exclusively for the Indian market.

Small Batch Classic is part of Teeling’s award-winning collection of Irish whiskeys and represents a unique and modern twist on traditional Irish whiskey making.  It is the latest string in the bow for the “World’s Most Awarded Irish Whiskey” brand.

Made in small batches from hand-selected casks of grain and malt whiskey, Small Batch Classic is aged in first-fill bourbon barrels.  Each component is hand selected for its stand-out character to provide a rounded, full-bodied flavour experience.  The whiskey is carefully crafted to provide a delicate balance of creamy vanilla and spicy fruit notes designed especially for the Indian palette.  It is bottled at 46% ABV with no-chill filtration to retain its true natural character.

Jack Teeling, Founder and Managing Director of Teeling Whiskey, commented: “We are thrilled to introduce Teeling Whiskey Small Batch Classic to India, a country that shares our deep appreciation for craftsmanship and innovation. We have created this unique, premium Irish Whiskey in small batches to suit the Indian palette, ensuring a balance of sweetness and bold, natural character.  It is a very exciting time for us to introduce the best of Dublin and Irish whiskey craftsmanship to Indian whiskey connoisseurs in one of the world’s fastest-growing Irish whiskey markets."

Vinay Golikeri, Managing Director, Bacardi India commented: “We are excited to launch Teeling Small Batch Classic, crafted exclusively for the Indian consumer. This special edition has been thoughtfully curated to align with the discerning tastes of Indian whiskey enthusiasts, offering a smooth yet complex profile that perfectly complements local preferences. We believe Teeling whiskey is best enjoyed in moments of connection—whether it’s celebrating life’s special occasions or elevating everyday gatherings with friends. We’re proud to bring this unique experience, blending Irish craftsmanship with a spirit of celebration, to a market that truly appreciates quality and authenticity.”

Beyond its resonant taste and heritage, Teeling Small Batch Classic is crafted with a deep commitment to sustainability that makes it stand out as the spirit of choice for India’s modern consumers. With sustainable practices embedded in its production—from responsibly sourced raw materials and recycled packaging to rainwater harvesting and solar-powered distilleries — Teeling offers a premium whiskey experience that aligns with the values of India’s increasingly environmentally aware audiences.

The exclusive Teeling Small Batch Classic is now available for purchase in Delhi, Gurugram, Amritsar, Ludhiana, Chandigarh - giving whiskey aficionados in North India the opportunity to acquire this bespoke craft Irish whiskey before being rolled out to the rest of India in 2025. Available in 70cl bottles at 46% ABV and priced at INR 3500.

ABOUT TEELING WHISKEY

The Teeling Whiskey Company was founded in 2012 to revive the old Teeling family trademark of Irish whiskey and bring craft distilling back to the City of Dublin. The Teeling Whiskey Company has quickly become the most progressive Irish whiskey company, driving category choice and innovation through a selection of unique handcrafted small batch Irish whiskeys. The Teeling Whiskey Distillery started operation in 2015 as the first new distillery in Dublin for over 125 years and has taken in over 800,000 visitors since opening in June of that year. Teeling Whiskey is now exported to over 80 different markets and has won over 600 international awards for its quality.[SI2]

Teeling Small Batch Classic Tasting notes

A truly unique Single Malt with unique depth of flavour from the use of innovative mash bill and maturation casks.

·       Nose: Golden grains and light orchard fruits, bursts of vanilla and toasted oak. 

·       Taste: Creamy vanilla sweetness, with a touch of spice and fruit.

·       Finish: Long, warming finish with lingering sweetness and spicy oak notes.

Toyota Kirloskar Motor Celebrates The Remarkable Milestone Of 1,00,000 Innova HyCross Units Sold In India

* 1 lakh unit sales achieved on the Second Anniversary

* Growth fuels by sustained demand from across the country including tier 2/3 markets

Toyota Kirloskar Motor (TKM) today celebrated a significant milestone of 1,00,000 wholesale units of the Innova HyCross in India. On the second anniversary of its launch, this milestone reinforces the trust of customers on brand Toyota whilst marks the growing popularity of the Innova HyCross much loved for its advanced technology, unmatched comfort, and exceptional performance.

Launched in November 2022 as another step in the direction towards TKM’s commitment towards offering sustainable mobility by adopting a multi-pathway, the Innova HyCross represents a seamless blend of Toyota’s globally renowned Quality, Durability, and Reliability (QDR) with cutting-edge technology and innovative design.

Built on Toyota’s advanced Global Architecture (TNGA), the Innova HyCross is powered by a 5th Generation Self-Charging Strong Hybrid Electric System. Equipped with a 2.0-litre 4-cylinder gasoline engine and an e-drive sequential shift, it delivers an impressive power output of 137 kW (186 PS) while offering best-in-segment fuel efficiency. The hybrid system enables the vehicle to operate 60% of the time in electric (EV) mode, providing a seamless combination of power, efficiency, and environmental consciousness.

Additionally, the model offers a 2.0-litre gasoline engine paired with a direct shift CVT in select variants, delivering a robust output of 129 kW (174 PS), giving customers diverse choices to suit their driving needs.

Commenting on the new milestone, Mr. Sabari Manohar – Vice President, Sales-Service-Used Car Business, Toyota Kirloskar Motor said, ““We are thrilled to share that the Innova HyCross has achieved milestone of 1,00,000 units. Heartfelt thanks to our customers for their trust and support as we continue to drive unparalleled mobility experiences.

The hybrid technology option in the Innova HyCross continues to impress customers with its exceptional performance and remarkable mileage. Beyond efficiency, the HyCross strikes an ideal balance of space and luxury, making it a practical choice tailored to a family’s diverse needs. Its superior handling, unparalleled comfort, and top-notch safety features further amplify its appeal. Combined with Toyota’s trusted service standards, the Innova HyCross delivers a holistic ownership experience that resonates deeply with its growing base of satisfied customers.

We remain confident that the Innova HyCross will continue to captivate hearts and set new benchmarks in mobility, delivering unmatched performance and innovation for years to come.”

The Innova HyCross has garnered immense popularity for its versatility and premium features that cater to a variety of customer preferences. Its class-leading features include powered Ottoman second-row seats, ventilated front seats, dual-zone air conditioning, Toyota Safety Sense, 65+ Connected Features and a power back door, making it a vehicle for every occasion. The model not only exemplifies superior comfort but also underscores Toyota’s commitment to safety, innovation, and style.

The success of the product is further complemented with Toyota’s exceptional and industry-leading service benefits to the customers.  TKM provides a comprehensive range of services under the umbrella “T CARE” that demonstrates the company’s dedication to enriching customer delight and fostering long-term relationships. Covering everything from presales to aftersales and repurchases, T CARE integrates these offerings under one unified brand that includes a wide array of offerings such as T DELIVER, T GLOSS, T ASSIST, T SAATH, T SECURE, T CHOICE, T INSPECT, T SMILE and more.

The Innova HyCross has also won various awards and accolades as a testament to its market acceptance and segment leadership.

HDFC Life Launches ‘The Missing Beat - Second Chance’

After the success of the first phase of ‘The Missing Beat’, a campaign aimed at increasing public awareness on Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR), HDFC Life has launched the next phase of the campaign, titled ‘Second Chance’.

The first digital film of ‘The Missing Beat’ campaign generated effective results, reaching over 25.4 million views and 46 million impressions, and over 124,000 visits, highlighting the extent of audience engagement for a critical topic – CPR. With ‘Second Chance’, HDFC Life takes a step further, using storytelling to raise CPR awareness in a relatable way.

In ‘Second Chance’, viewers follow the story of a corporate employee who experiences a sudden cardiac arrest at an office event. The film captures his journey as he envisions key moments in his life – dreams he has yet to fulfil, milestones he wishes to achieve, and promises that he made to his family.

‘Second Chance’ seeks to deepen the public conversation about CPR and emphasises the need for an individual to be prepared in every way. It gives an important message that being equipped to save a life and protecting loved ones financially, are dual responsibilities everyone should consider.

Vishal Subharwal – Group Head Strategy & CMO, HDFC Life, said, “The first phase of our campaign received a phenomenal response, motivating us to go a step further by exploring the personal impact on an individual whose dreams could remain unfulfilled without CPR intervention. In this phase, we see the protagonist in an ethereal realm during a cardiac arrest, getting a glimpse of the future he had planned – his aspirations, milestones, and promises made to loved ones.

Every individual has dreams and to pursue them, one must be prepared in every way – to save a life in a critical moment and to protect loved ones financially. Our hope is that this campaign inspires people to take CPR training seriously and to contribute to the noble cause of saving lives.”

Manesh Swamy, Director & Chief Creative Officer – LS Creative at LS Digital, added, “This campaign goes beyond the statistics, bringing to life the emotional reality of a cardiac emergency. We aim to connect with audiences on a personal level, underscoring the value of CPR and the peace of mind life insurance provides.  Through this story, we are committed to making India CPR-ready and financially secure.”

Cardiac arrest is a growing crisis in India. Around 500,000 to 600,000 lives are lost each year due to cardiac arrest. The awareness of CPR remains extremely low, with fewer than 2% of the population trained in this vital skill. 

In the fiscal year 2024, HDFC Life provided coverage to 6.6 crore lives and achieved a 99.5% claim settlement ratio for individual claims, reflecting its dedication to policyholders and their families.

About HDFC Life

Founded in 2000, HDFC Life Insurance Company Limited (‘HDFC Life’ or the ‘Company’) is a leading provider of long-term life insurance solutions in India. It offers a broad range of individual and group plans across the Protection, Pension, Savings, Investment, Annuity, and Health categories, with a portfolio of products and optional riders designed to meet the diverse needs of its customers.

HDFC Life is a subsidiary of HDFC Bank Limited, one of India’s leading private banks. The Company has a nationwide presence, operating through its own branches and a network of over 300 distribution partners, including banks, NBFCs, MFIs, SFBs, brokers, and emerging ecosystem partners. HDFC Life also maintains a strong base of financial consultants.

Recognised as a great place to work, HDFC Life is deeply committed to governance and sustainability, ensuring responsible business practices that align with its long-term objectives.

For more information, visit www.hdfclife.com or follow us on Facebook, X (formerly Twitter), YouTube, and LinkedIn.

Madhya Pradesh Is The Best Film-Friendly State In The Country - Principal Secretary Shri Sheo Shekhar Shukla

* MP Tourism Board organized a knowledge session at the ongoing 55th IFFI (International Film Festival of India) in Goa.

* Hints about multiple sequels of ‘Stree’ ahead in MP - Amar Kaushik

* Principal Secretary Shri Shukla said that Film Tourism Policy 2.0 will be released soon.

Madhya Pradesh Tourism Board participated in the 55th IFFI (International Film Festival of India) in Goa from 20th - 25th November 2024, promoting the state’s film shooting facilities and the Film Tourism Policy. A knowledge series was also organised on 21st November 2024 by Madhya Pradesh Tourism Board featuring discussions on boosting film production in state.

The series on ‘Lights, Camera, Collaboration: Government and Industry partnership for filming in Madhya Pradesh’ included insights from Principal Secretary Tourism and Culture Department & Managing Director, Madhya Pradesh Tourism Board Mr. Sheo Shekhar Shukla, Film Director Mr. Amar Kaushik, CEO Aamir Khan Productions Ms Aparna Purohit, Actor Mr Abhishek Banarjee, Actor Ms. Nitanshi Goel, Actor Mr. Sparsh Shrivastava & Actor and Producer Ms Vani Tikoo Tripathi. Principal Secretary Mr. Shukla informed about the various aspects of the MP Film Tourism Policy with the aim of promoting film shooting in the state, how government initiatives can help streamline processes and foster collaboration between various stakeholders in the industry and establishing the state as a major film-making destination. Filmmakers appreciated the Madhya Pradesh Film Tourism Policy showed interest in future projects in the state.

Mr. Sheo Shekhar Shukla said “Madhya Pradesh is proudly two times national award winner of most film friendly state 2017 & 2020. The state is undoubtedly a must-visit state for film shooting. The state government has created the Film Facilitation Cell to promote filmmaking and shooting within the state. Madhya Pradesh is undeniably a naturally stunning offbeat multispecialty destination and paradise for filmmakers seeking picturesque locations. The state's diverse locations from rich cultural heritage, vibrant wildlife and sacred spiritual destinations provide a visually stunning film set making it a perennial favourite among filmmakers. Madhya Pradesh boasts excellent connectivity by road and air. Recognizing the industry's needs and the state's stunning locales, the government has implemented a film policy offering lucrative incentives to filmmakers. All these factors have solidified Madhya Pradesh's position as a premier film shooting destination.”

Hints about multiple sequels of ‘Stree’ ahead in MP - Amar Kaushik 

Director Amar Kaushik has confirmed that the popular horror-comedy franchise ‘Stree’ is set to continue with multiple sequels. The announcement was made during a Knowledge Series seminar at the International Film Festival of India (IFFI) in Goa.

Kaushik revealed that the upcoming sequels will be filmed primarily in Madhya Pradesh, a state that has become a popular filming destination due to its diverse landscapes and generous incentives. Interestingly, the original Stree was initially planned to be set in Goa but was eventually shifted to Chanderi in Madhya Pradesh. Kaushik explained that he wanted to avoid horror clichés and opted for a city setting rather than a traditional haunted house or beach location.

The Stree franchise, which includes the 2018 hit and its recent sequel, Stree 2, has been a massive commercial success. The films, starring Rajkummar Rao, Shraddha Kapoor, and Pankaj Tripathi, have garnered critical acclaim for their blend of humour, horror, and social commentary.

Film Tourism Policy 2.0 Soon - Principal Secretary Shri Shukla

Principal Secretary Shri Shukla said during the sessions that based on the suggestions received from filmmakers across the country, experts associated with the film industry, and stakeholders, changes are being made to the Madhya Pradesh Film Tourism Policy. Film Tourism Policy 2.0 will be released soon. This is a new and comprehensive policy designed to further promote film shooting in the state. Its objective is to provide additional facilities and incentives to filmmakers so that Madhya Pradesh can be made the top film-making destination in India. Changes are being made to the policy to attract international filmmakers, promote the state's unexplored tourist destinations, and create employment opportunities for the local community and youth.

Cine Tourism & Film Production in Madhya Pradesh 

Film Facilitation Cell to promote Film Shooting

The state government has established a Film Facilitation Cell to encourage the film industry and film shooting. This cell will coordinate with film production companies and producers, understand their needs, and suggest necessary changes in the policy. The Film Facilitation Cell will be overseen by a committee composed of the Managing Director of the MP Tourism Board, the Advisor for Archaeology, the Deputy Director of Finance, a film industry expert, and heads of relevant government departments. This cell will review all applications for film production and grant necessary approvals. It will also evaluate grant proposals submitted by producers. Madhya Pradesh is the first state in India to integrate film shooting into its Public Service Guarantee Act (PSGA). This innovative approach ensures that film shooting permissions are granted within 15 working days, streamlining the process for filmmakers.

Single Window System

A streamlined one-stop-shop system is in place for filmmakers wishing to shoot in the state. All necessary permits are issued through this centralized system. The state government is boosting its economy by supporting the entertainment industry through the Film Tourism Fund. The goal is to create more opportunities for those involved in filmmaking. There are also plans to conduct tours for prominent Indian filmmakers. 

Financial Incentives for Film Production in Madhya Pradesh

The state's film production incentive policy offers financial incentives to filmmakers who shoot in Madhya Pradesh. The amount of the grant depends on the film's budget and the percentage of shooting days spent in the state.

For the first film:

• Up to 1 crore budget: 25% of the production cost, up to a maximum of 1 crore, if at least 50% of the shooting is done in Madhya Pradesh.

• 1-1.5 crore budget: 25% of the production cost, up to a maximum of 1.5 crore, if at least 75% of the shooting is done in Madhya Pradesh.

For the second film:

• Up to 1.25 crore budget: 25% of the production cost, up to a maximum of 1.25 crore, if at least 50% of the shooting is done in Madhya Pradesh.

• 1.25-1.75 crore budget: 25% of the production cost, up to a maximum of 1.75 crore, if at least 75% of the shooting is done in Madhya Pradesh.

For the third and subsequent films:

• Up to 1.5 crore budget: 25% of the production cost, up to a maximum of 1.5 crore, if at least 50% of the shooting is done in Madhya Pradesh.

• 1.5-2 crore budget: 25% of the production cost, up to a maximum of 2 crore, if at least 75% of the shooting is done in Madhya Pradesh.