In a surprising turn of events, the much-awaited grand opening of City of Dreams Sri Lanka has undergone a sudden change at the top. Originally expected to be graced by Bollywood’s King Khan, Shah Rukh Khan, the spotlight will now fall on India’s charismatic dance icon—Hrithik Roshan.
Shah Rukh’s sudden withdrawal due to scheduling conflicts sent ripples across South Asia’s entertainment community. But like a true cinematic twist, the organizers pulled off the perfect comeback: Hrithik Roshan, known for his electrifying presence and global fan following, will now headline the gala event on August 2, 2025, as the exclusive guest of honour.
SUPERSTAR HRITHIK ROSHAN TO GRACE THE GRAND OPENING OF CITY OF DREAMS SRI LANKA AS SPECIAL GUEST
The Celebration Begins
Marking the official launch of the “Let’s Go, Let Go” campaign, this event isn’t just a party—it’s a movement. It calls on dreamers, travellers, and luxury seekers to leave behind the ordinary and embrace indulgence, joy, and reinvention. As South Asia’s first integrated resort, City of Dreams Sri Lanka is poised to elevate Colombo into the ranks of top-tier global destinations.
Andre Timmins, Co-Founder and Director at Wizcraft Entertainment, expressed his thrill about the event, stating,
“It’s an exhilarating moment for Wizcraft to be part of the grand unveiling of City of Dreams Sri Lanka—a game-changing destination that reshapes the landscape of luxury and entertainment in South Asia. Having the legendary Hrithik Roshan as our celebrated guest adds a layer of glamour and emotion to this monumental event. His presence embodies the joy, vibrance, and magnificence of this historic launch. This isn’t just a celebration—it’s a spectacle that promises to etch itself in memory.”
Much more than just an upscale resort, City of Dreams Sri Lanka stands as an engineering and design masterpiece poised to position Colombo at the forefront of elite tourism and business retreats. As South Asia scripts its next chapter, this opening marks the dawn of a dazzling legacy. City of Dreams Sri Lankais more than a luxurious escape—it’s a symbol of ambition, architectural excellence, and South Asia’s rising global appeal. From curated experiences to breathtaking designs, the resort sets a new benchmark in leisure and business travel. As countdown begins, the stage is set, the lights are warming up, and the star has arrived. This isn’t just an opening—it’s cinematic history in the making.
In a pioneering move, Jharkhand has launched India’s first mining tourism project. The state government has signed a five-year Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Central Coalfields Limited (CCL) to develop and promote this unique form of tourism. The initiative aims to showcase Jharkhand’s rich mineral legacy while boosting tourism and creating local employment opportunities.
Background
Jharkhand accounts for nearly 40% of India’s mineral reserves and has long been a major mining hub. The concept of mining tourism was inspired by the Chief Minister’s visit to the Gava Museum of Mines in Barcelona, which exhibits ancient mining relics and techniques. Motivated by this experience, the government envisioned opening up mining sites to the public in a safe and educational manner.
Objectives of the Initiative
The project aims to diversify Jharkhand’s tourism offerings by introducing an alternative to traditional hill stations and cultural destinations. A major focus is on educational outreach, allowing students and researchers to gain insights into mining technologies and environmental safeguards. The initiative also seeks to reinforce the state’s cultural identity and foster job creation.
Key Features of the Project
The pilot phase of the mining tourism project will centre on the North Urimari open-cast mine in Ramgarh district. Tours will be conducted in small groups of 10–20 people, offering visitors a chance to witness live mining operations from a safe distance. CCL will oversee logistics, safety measures, and educational programming.
The initiative includes two main circuits – the Rajrappa Route and the Patratu Route – which blend industrial visits with natural and cultural sites such as the Chinnamastika Temple and Patratu Valley. Tours will be priced between ₹2,500 and ₹2,800 (plus GST) and will operate twice a week.
Significance and Future Plans
This project marks India’s first eco-industrial tourism initiative in the mining sector, offering a rare blend of industry, ecology, and culture. It is expected to boost tourist footfall in less-explored regions of the state, stimulate local economies, and generate employment in ancillary services. Additionally, the initiative aims to raise public awareness about mining history and environmental sustainability.
Future expansions include the addition of more mines through collaborations with Bharat Coking Coal Limited (BCCL) and other entities, further extending the tourism circuit.
Sustainable Tourism and Environmental Education
Beyond mining sites, the circuit also highlights natural attractions such as Palani Falls, Patratu Valley, and Tiru Falls, providing a well-rounded experience that merges nature with industry. The project emphasizes sustainable tourism, educating visitors on the environmental protocols followed by mining companies. It aspires to set a model for responsible tourism development in industrial regions.
For nature lovers who cherish the beauty of lush valleys and serene landscapes, Madhya Pradesh’s one and only heritage train is making a grand comeback after a four-month pause. According to Indian Railways, the Patalpani–Kalakund Heritage Train will resume operations from July 26, running every Saturday and Sunday. The Western Railway’s Ratlam division has issued an official circular confirming the revival. However, travelers must reach Patalpani station by road, as there’s no direct rail connectivity to the starting point.
The Journey: A Monsoon Marvel This scenic train ride begins at Patalpani Railway Station, nestled in the heart of Mhow tehsil, and winds its way to Kalakund, covering a distance of 10 km in about 2 hours. Along the way, passengers are treated to:
Dense forests and rolling hills
Gushing waterfalls and misty tunnels
Chirping birds and the aroma of roasted corn, spicy bhajiyas, and steaming Maggi
The train itself is a charming throwback, with five coaches—two AC Chair Cars and three Non-AC Chair Cars. Tickets are modestly priced: ₹265 for AC and just ₹20 for Non-AC.
Train Timings
Departure from Patalpani: 11:05 AM
Arrival at Kalakund: 1:05 PM
Return from Kalakund: 3:34 PM
Arrival back at Patalpani: 4:30 PM
Tickets are available online via IRCTC, Paytm, or MakeMyTrip. And yes, you’ll need separate bookings for the onward and return journeys.
Banana Chat 9.0, hosted at AKFD Studio, Jaipur, brought together members of the design and creative community for a thought-provoking conversation centered around collaboration in design practice.
This edition featured Asha Sairam, Principal at Studio Lotus—one of India’s most respected architecture and design firms—in conversation with designer and AKFD founder Ayush Kasliwal. Titled “The Creation of Collaboration: A Trust-Fall Exercise,” Asha’s talk delved into the nuanced and often vulnerable nature of collaborative work. She spoke candidly about the importance of trust, empathy, and creative friction, offering insights drawn from Studio Lotus’s acclaimed design ethos.
“Genius really is an act of the collective—and we can get there each time with our collaborators,” she shared.
The session attracted a vibrant mix of architects, designers, students, and cultural thinkers, all engaging in an informal yet deeply resonant dialogue. Among the notable attendees were: Ar. Shamini Shanker, Ar. Sangeeta Maithel, Prof. N.S. Rathore, Archana Rathore, Ar. Rekha Nemani, Ar. Ritu Khandelwal, Sonal Chitranshi, Neelum Narang, and Chinar Farooqui.
As with previous editions, Banana Chat 9.0 stayed true to its spirit—creating space for reflection, inquiry, and genuine connection within the creative community.
“Banana Chat was envisioned as a space where like-minded creatives could come together to interact, exchange ideas, and inspire one another,” said Geetanjali Kasliwal.
Now an evolving forum, Banana Chat continues to nurture honest, insightful dialogue and foster a culture of collaboration across the design ecosystem
When the sky is wrapped in clouds, the scent of wet earth fills the air, and every corner gleams with lush greenery—you know India’s monsoon is calling. It’s not just a season, it’s a feeling… a time when nature paints the world anew and invites every traveler into its embrace. If you’re seeking the perfect vacation while keeping an eye on your budget, now is the moment to set your sights on some of India’s hidden yet heartwarming destinations. Places where serenity meets beauty, and where every moment becomes a cherished memory. This time, promise yourself a walk alongside the raindrops… and get ready for a monsoon journey you’ll never forget!
Let me now take you to those breathtaking destinations where nature awaits your arrival…
Munnar, Kerala Nestled in the Western Ghats, Munnar’s emerald tea plantations and misty valleys shine in the rains. Waterfalls like Attukal and Lakkam roar with monsoon flow, while Eravikulam National Park offers treks to spot the endangered Nilgiri Tahr amid foggy hills. Visit a tea factory, sip fresh brews, and shop for cardamom and spices at local markets. Monsoon’s off-season means fewer crowds and budget-friendly homestays.
Coorg (Kodagu), Karnataka
Dubbed the “Scotland of India,” Coorg’s coffee estates, dense forests, and rolling hills turn vibrant green. Abbey Falls and Iruppu Falls thunder spectacularly, while guided plantation tours reveal the aroma of wet coffee beans. Spot elephants at Nagarhole National Park (if open). Relish spicy Kodava cuisine like pandi curry and unwind with filter coffee at cozy homestays overlooking misty valleys.
Kodaikanal, Tamil Nadu
This Palani Hills gem exudes colonial charm with cloud-kissed lakes and wildflower-laden trails. Stroll Coaker’s Walk for misty vistas, boat on Kodaikanal Lake, or hike to Pillar Rocks for dramatic cliff views. Silver Cascade Falls gushes fiercely, and local markets brim with homemade chocolates and eucalyptus oil. Monsoon’s cool air makes café-hopping for hot snacks a delight.
Goa (Konkan Coast)
Beyond its beaches, Goa’s monsoon charm lies in its lush hinterlands and quiet shores. Dudhsagar Falls cascades in full glory (check access), while spice plantations in Ponda offer aromatic tours. Old Goa’s churches gleam post-rain, and the Sao Joao festival (late June) brings lively well-jumping celebrations. Savor seafood at shacks and enjoy uncrowded beaches under dramatic rainclouds.
Lonavala & Khandala, Maharashtra
These twin hill stations near Mumbai explode with neon-green hills and waterfalls. Bhushi Dam’s overflow creates splash pools, a local hit. Hike to Tiger’s Leap or Lion’s Point for cloud-filled valley views, and explore ancient Karla and Bhaja Caves, their entrances framed by seasonal falls. Grab Lonavala’s famous chikki and hot vada pav at roadside stalls.
Udaipur, Rajasthan
The City of Lakes sparkles as monsoon fills Lake Pichola and Fateh Sagar. Boat rides offer stunning views of the City Palace under overcast skies, while Sajjangarh Monsoon Palace perched in the Aravalli hills delivers epic sunsets. Stroll Saheliyon-ki-Bari’s glistening gardens and savor dal bati at rooftop cafés, watching rain ripple across the lakes.
Valley of Flowers, Uttarakhand
A UNESCO World Heritage Site in the Garhwal Himalayas, this alpine valley blooms with orchids, poppies, and rare Himalayan blue poppies from mid-July to August. Trek through misty meadows (carry a poncho for slippery trails) and extend to Hemkund Sahib’s sacred lake for waterfall-lined views. Open only during monsoon, it’s a nature lover’s paradise.
Cherrapunji, Meghalaya
One of the world’s wettest places, Cherrapunji (Sohra) stuns with cloud-draped cliffs and roaring waterfalls. Nohkalikai Falls, India’s tallest plunge, is mesmerizing in full flow. Trek to the Double Decker Living Root Bridge in Nongriat (steep but rewarding) and explore Mawsmai Cave’s limestone wonders. Sip local tea while soaking in the rain-soaked gorges’ ethereal beauty.
Darjeeling, West Bengal
At 2,000m in the Eastern Himalayas, Darjeeling’s tea estates and colonial charm glow in monsoon mist. Visit tea gardens for tastings, ride the nostalgic Toy Train (check for closures), or explore the Himalayan Zoological Park. On clear mornings, Tiger Hill offers Kanchenjunga views. Warm up with momos and thukpa at cozy cafés like Glenary’s amid drizzles.
Leh-Ladakh In the Himalayan rain-shadow, Ladakh’s arid deserts and monasteries thrive in monsoon’s clear skies. Explore Thiksey, Hemis, and Diskit monasteries, vibrant with summer festivals. Raft in the Zanskar River’s monsoon-fed rapids or marvel at Pangong Tso and Tso Moriri lakes reflecting moody skies. Bike or drive through rugged terrains for an adventurous escape.
The monsoon transforms India’s landscapes into a vibrant tapestry of greenery, mist, and cascading waterfalls, making it the perfect time to explore these 10 breathtaking destinations. From Munnar’s emerald tea gardens to Goa’s rain-washed beaches, each spot offers a unique blend of nature, adventure, and serenity. Pack your raincoat, embrace the drizzle, and discover the magical charm of India’s monsoon havens!
For centuries, whispers of unimaginable wealth buried beneath sacred soil or sealed behind ancient doors have captivated the minds of explorers, historians, and dreamers alike. These tales—part myth, part mystery—continue to fuel billion-dollar fantasies and global treasure hunts. From the steppes of Mongolia to the jungles of the Philippines and the sanctums of Indian temples, here are three of the most tantalizing treasure legends still unsolved.
Genghis Khan’s Tomb: A Trillion-Dollar Enigma
The final resting place of Genghis Khan, the 13th-century Mongol emperor who forged the largest contiguous empire in history, remains one of archaeology’s greatest mysteries. Despite centuries of speculation, his tomb has never been found.
Legend & Lore: It’s said that the funeral procession killed anyone who witnessed it, and the soldiers who buried him were executed to preserve secrecy.
Possible Location: Most theories point to Burkhan Khaldun mountain in Mongolia, a sacred site sealed off for centuries.
Treasure Estimate: Some believe the tomb could contain trillions in gold, weapons, and artifacts looted during his conquests.
Modern Expeditions: Satellite imagery, drone surveys, and non-invasive scans have identified dozens of potential sites, but none have yielded definitive proof.
Despite technological advances, the tomb remains elusive—guarded by legend, geography, and cultural reverence.
Vault B of Padmanabhaswamy Temple: India’s Sealed Chamber of Secrets
In 2011, five of six underground vaults in Kerala’s Padmanabhaswamy Temple were opened under Supreme Court orders, revealing over ₹1 lakh crore (approx. $20 billion) in gold, jewels, and ancient artifacts. But one vault—Vault B—remains sealed.
Contents of Opened Vaults:
Gold thrones, crowns, and ceremonial attire
800 kg of gold coins dating back to 200 B.C.
Solid gold idols and diamond-studded ornaments
Vault B Mystique:
Believed to house divine relics and even more treasure
Guarded by cobra carvings and layers of iron and wood
Rumored to be protected by a curse
Estimated Value: Some speculate Vault B alone could contain $1 trillion in treasure
Despite court petitions and public intrigue, Vault B remains untouched—its secrets locked away by tradition and fear.
Yamashita’s Gold: WWII’s Vanishing Fortune
Named after Japanese General Tomoyuki Yamashita, this legendary hoard is said to contain gold, jewels, and priceless artifacts looted across Southeast Asia during World War II and hidden in the Philippines.
Origin Story: Allegedly buried in tunnels and caves by Japanese forces before surrendering in 1945
Treasure Hunter Claims:
Filipino locksmith Rogelio Roxas claimed to have found a golden Buddha and crates of gold bars in 1971. He was later arrested and tortured, the treasure was allegedly seized by then-President Ferdinand Marcos
Legal Fallout: Roxas’ estate won a $22 billion judgment against the Marcos family in a Hawaii court
Estimated Value: Believed to be worth over $200 billion, though no official recovery has ever been confirmed The legend persists, inspiring documentaries, lawsuits, and countless expeditions—yet the gold remains hidden, if it exists at all
Why These Legends Endure
Whether real or imagined, these treasure tales endure because they tap into something primal: the allure of discovery, the thrill of mystery, and the hope of rewriting history. They remind us that beneath the surface of our modern world, ancient secrets may still lie waiting.
Nahargarh Fort is a prominent and expansive fort located in Jaipur, Rajasthan, and its breathtaking views are truly beyond description. The image depicts Jaipur’s famous Jal Mahal, situated alongside the city of Jaipur, which is located at the edge of the Aravalli mountains. The area is well-maintained, and during the journey there, I found that the trip was even more beautiful than the destination itself. The scenery along the road gave the impression that you were driving through a lush, green landscape, as if a narrow road was weaving through the edges of a forest. Just imagine! The museum is an incredible attraction that encompasses three distinct parts: the Hall of Icons, the Royal Darbar, and the Sheesh Mahal. Each section is beautifully curated, showcasing an array of gold, silver, and other precious artifacts that tell captivating stories of history and culture.
Hall of Icons
The Hall of Icons is a breathtaking experience, filled with majestic creations that truly transport you to the presence of iconic personalities from India’s rich history. This extraordinary hall features meticulously designed sculptures by the talented artist, Mr. Susanta Ray, who was personally selected by the museum’s director, Mr. Anup Shrivastava.
As you wander through the hall, you’ll encounter representations of revered freedom fighters, modern-day heroes, and celebrated Indian leaders. The carefully crafted installations feature striking depictions of landmarks, such as India Gate, and a lifelike spaceship honoring Kalpana Chawla, each designed to immerse you in the moment and evoke a sense of place. The layout of the hall is thoughtfully organized into separate sections, allowing visitors to feel they have stepped directly into specific historical contexts.
One standout experience is the Buddhist section, where the presence of the current Dalai Lama is so authentically rendered that the ambiance shifts around you, creating an almost spiritual connection. The scents, sounds, and visual elements work in harmony to create a sense of engaging in conversation with this revered figure.
Adding to the uniqueness of the Hall of Icons is an impressive ten-foot-long bullet bike named Giti Gamini, which draws considerable attention and admiration. This striking piece stands out not just as a marvel of engineering but also symbolizes the adventurous spirit of Indian youth.
Overall, the Hall of Icons is an awe-inspiring destination that leaves visitors with a profound sense of connection to India’s past and an appreciation for its rich narrative. Each visit feels like a journey through time, making this museum truly remarkable and unforgettable!
Royal Darbar
This section of the museum showcases the ruling history of Rajasthan. It provides insights into who built the forts, who the most knowledgeable leaders of Rajasthan were, and the famous stories of Jaipur.
What I appreciated most about this section was that each painting features colorful stones attached to it, highlighting how the royals of ancient times adorned themselves with gems to showcase their wealth and vibrancy. I also enjoyed observing the different types of stones on display, each with its own history and unique color. The pictures demonstrate how the kings used specific stones as symbols to represent their identity and significance.
Sheesh Mahal – The Identity of This Place
The Sheesh Mahal is a very unique part of this museum. As soon as you enter this area, the odor, the sounds, and many other elements will make you feel as if you are in the old times of Rajasthan, standing in front of the royals. The floor is handcrafted from pieces of glass that were specially hand-cut and arranged in an orderly manner. This glass floor has a fascinating backstory. When the owner of the museum, Mr. Anup Shrivastava, was searching for flooring for this section, he initially selected a type that was too costly to be used in the museum. However, he was very attracted to it. He then decided to try something unique that had not been used in any Sheesh Mahal around the world, and that idea was to use pieces of glass for the flooring, which created a distinctive effect. The result was so impressive that it outperformed traditional carpet flooring.
Additionally, this glass floor allows you to see what is above your head—a beautiful gold lantern mounted above. This museum is made up of more than 2.5 million glass pieces, all of which are hand-cut, arranged, and painted by hand. The Sheesh Mahal also features a different type of mirror called a Thikri mirror, which allows visitors to see everyone standing with them in that particular area.
Within this area, you can find a bride’s makeup room that has a rich red and old-world color vibe. Here, the queen used to dress up, and her jewelry, such as necklaces and rings, was kept in special boxes designed to attract attention. Gold is used in many of the paintings displayed here, and you can also see an area where silver was hand-cut and safely embedded in a wall. In some instances, Thikri mirrors were placed strategically so that you could see the entire Sheesh Mahal from just a small piece of mirror.
Kings also had a special meditation room and a storage room for their needs. Additionally, a duplicate model of the Kohinoor diamond is displayed here. This section of the museum is truly a soothing experience for your tired eyes.
Conclusion After the visit, the display outside this place was unique. There was a puppet show and a magic show, which attracted many audience members. After the visit, we talked to the head, Mr. Anup Shrivastava. Here are some highlights from our conversation:
He is a remarkable personality who is greatly inspired by Amitabh Bachchan. He mentioned that the first statue he made was of Amitabh Bachchan himself. He answered every question thoughtfully and interactively, and his words truly resonated with me. He began his journey with the help of the film industry and has never looked back since.
While creating this museum, he faced many challenges, including issues with workers, builders, and supplies. However, after overcoming these difficulties, he transformed a once-neglected place into a popular destination that everyone now wants to visit. In the end, I extend a heartfelt salute to this great individual who has dedicated himself to showcasing India’s rich diversity and history.
In an era when Bollywood seemed to have lost its lyrical touch, Saiyaara burst onto the silver screen like a ballad refusing to be ignored. Directed by the ever-emotive Mohit Suri, this romantic musical drama is not merely a movie—it’s a sensory experience. With poetic storytelling, powerhouse performances, and a soundtrack that speaks directly to the soul, Saiyaara has become the biggest surprise hit of 2025, rewriting box office history with every passing day. From its opening scene—a windswept concert stage where Ahaan Panday’s Krish strums heartbreak into the silence—to its final frame where Aneet Padda’s Vaani scribbles faded memories into an abandoned diary, Saiyaara is pure cinematic poetry. It brings together youth and pain, hope and nostalgia, music and emotion, into one unforgettable blend.
Mohit Suri’s Return to Form
Mohit Suri, once known for films like Aashiqui 2 and Ek Villain, returns with a film that feels like a matured version of his romantic obsessions. The screenplay plays with memory, music, and melancholy. Vaani’s diary, containing poems she no longer remembers writing, becomes Krish’s muse—a metaphorical and literal bridge between two souls. Suri’s direction frames every scene with lyrical intent, allowing silence and sound to co-exist meaningfully. It’s storytelling that lingers.
Worldwide Box Office
₹188 crore gross in just 5 days Surpassed lifetime earnings of Game Changer, Sikandar, and Good Bad Ugly Expected to cross ₹200 crore by second weekend
Global Footprint
Beyond domestic shores, Saiyaara has become India’s latest export of emotion. In just five days, the worldwide gross touched ₹188 crore. Overseas markets, including UAE, UK, and North America, responded with equal fervor. Screens in London reported sold-out shows for late-night screenings, while fans in Toronto chanted the title track at public gatherings. Trade analysts now project the film will comfortably cross the ₹200 crore milestone before its second weekend, possibly rivaling even Pathaan and Jawan in longevity.
In a groundbreaking stride for robotics, Chinese tech innovator UBTECH Robotics has unveiled its latest marvel—Walker S2, a humanoid robot capable of autonomously replacing its own battery. This advancement sets a new benchmark in robotic endurance and independence, eliminating the need for human intervention in its power cycles and enabling seamless operation 24/7 for up to seven consecutive days.
A Leap Toward Fully Autonomous Robots
Walker S2 isn’t just another bipedal robot—it represents a bold leap into next-generation autonomy. While most humanoid robots require charging stations or manual battery swaps, Walker S2 has been engineered to detect its own power levels and initiate a self-replacement process. This feature allows it to maintain uninterrupted functionality, especially in environments demanding constant operation such as smart factories, security surveillance, or even elder care.
Robots in Shenzhen, southern China, have mastered self-battery swap, achieving rapid, autonomous power replacement in 3 minutes for 24/7 non-stop operation. World’s first! pic.twitter.com/7NNtNYBiHy
Battery Self-Management: Automatically monitors and swaps batteries when needed
24/7 Operation: Capable of running continuously for up to 168 hours
Humanoid Dexterity: Advanced limb movement, facial recognition, and interaction abilities
AI-Driven Intelligence: Learns and adapts to different tasks and environments
Built for Intelligent Interaction
UBTECH Robotics designed Walker S2 to not just work, but engage. It’s equipped with high-level perception systems including voice recognition, emotion sensing, and obstacle navigation. These attributes make it ideal for roles where both technical precision and human-like interaction are crucial.
Shaping the Future of Robotics
The launch of Walker S2 signals the arrival of robots that can manage their own hardware lifecycles, minimizing downtime and maintenance costs. UBTECH’s achievement could influence how industries design autonomous systems and rethink dependency on human operators. In the long term, such innovation might pave the way toward self-sustaining robotic ecosystems where fleets of machines maintain and manage themselves—creating possibilities in space exploration, remote disaster recovery, and beyond.
Craft tourism, craft cities, craft economies—these terms took center stage during a recent roundtable discussion held at AnanTaya in Jaipur, where prominent designers, educators, and craft advocates came together to express growing concerns about cultural misappropriation and the erasure of Indian artisans’ identities. The discussion was sparked by recent controversies involving global fashion houses like Prada and Dior, which have showcased Indian-inspired designs without giving due credit to their sources.
AnanTaya co-founder Geetanjali Kasliwal voiced deep concern over the growing trend:
“Craft is a living tradition in India. Ours is a collective culture, and our crafts reflect that—often, entire families work together on a single piece. While international brands should be commended for promoting craftsmanship as luxury, misappropriating our culture without acknowledgment is unacceptable. If a Kolhapuri chappal brings prestige to a global brand, the artisan behind it must also benefit.”
Meenakshi Singh, founder faculty at the Indian Institute of Craft and Design (IICD)—Rajasthan’s only government-initiated design institute—and founder of Khatu Design, offered a critical but hopeful perspective:
“At least this conversation is happening now. If brands like Prada are highlighting Indian crafts, it’s a wake-up call. The government must recognize handicrafts as a vital industry, not a sunset sector. We need policy reforms that empower artisans to claim rightful credit. And let’s ask ourselves honestly—how many Indian designers credit their artisans?”
Pavna Mehta Joshi, co-founder of Threads of Identity, emphasised the imbalance in global appreciation:
“Foreign brands treat Indian crafts as exotic muses. They copy designs and sell them at premium prices. If you’re inspired by India, acknowledge the source. Give credit where it’s due—and support the artisan community behind it.”
Designer and educator Swati added a pointed cultural critique:
“I remember someone saying: ‘Everyone wants a piece of India, but no one wants the Indians.’ Crafts are taken out of their cultural context and stripped of their roots in FOREIGN NATIONS. If Prada’s team is truly inspired, they should have collaborated respectfully after proper research.”
Sonal Chitranshi, CEO of FORHEX and a designer working closely with grassroots artisan brands, summed up the sentiment:
“India has always been a giver. Our design philosophy is rooted in sharing. But that doesn’t mean others can take without giving back. True inspiration must lead to collaboration, not exploitation.”
The panel proposed an ambitious cultural initiative—establishing Craft Capitals across India, where each city is celebrated for its signature craft. This, they said, could boost craft tourism and reaffirm India’s identity as a global hub of heritage, creativity, and sustainable luxury.
The debate follows an uproar over Italian luxury house Prada showcasing India’s traditional Kolhapuri chappals in a global fashion show without proper attribution. Dior, too, has been criticized for allegedly replicating Indian crafts without acknowledging their origins.
As India’s craft economy continues to attract global attention, voices from the heart of its creative community are demanding not just admiration—but respect, recognition, and rightful credit.
