MUMBAI, India – January 23, 2025 – Today, Prime Video released ten first-look images for The Wheel of Time’s upcoming third season, which will debut globally on March 13, 2025. This release is part of #WOTWednesdays, a fan-favorite weekly reveal of series news and assets leading up to the season premiere. The Wheel of Time is co-produced by Sony Pictures Television and Amazon MGM Studios and is based on Robert Jordan’s best-selling epic fantasy book series of the same name.

In The Wheel of Time, a humble farm boy, Rand al’Thor, learns he is The Dragon Reborn—a dangerous figure from history destined to save the world … or break it. The Wheel of Time turns, and the Last Battle approaches.

After defeating Ishamael, one of the most powerful of the Forsaken, at the end of Season Two, Rand reunites with his friends in the city of Falme and is declared the Dragon Reborn. But in Season Three, the threats against the Light are multiplying: the White Tower stands divided, the Black Ajah runs free, old enemies return to the Two Rivers, and the remaining Forsaken are in hot pursuit of the Dragon… including Lanfear, whose relationship with Rand will mark a crucial choice between Light and Dark for them both. As the ties to his past begin to unravel, and his corrupted power grows stronger, Rand becomes increasingly unrecognizable to his closest allies, Moiraine and Egwene. These powerful women, who started the series as teachers and students, must now work together to prevent the Dragon from turning to the Dark…no matter the cost.

The Wheel of Time series on Prime Video has solidified its place as a monumental success for the platform. Based on Robert Jordan’s beloved and epic fantasy book series, the show weaves a tale of magic, destiny, and adventure that has captured the imagination of fans worldwide. In 2021, Season One launched as the biggest original series debut in Prime Video history at the time, excelling in both reach and subscriber acquisition. It continues to remain among the top three series debuts of all time on Prime Video behind The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power and Fallout. Overall, the show has generated more than 100 million viewers worldwide to date. Additionally, both Seasons One and Two are Certified Fresh on Rotten Tomatoes, further cementing the show’s critical acclaim. The Wheel of Time serves as a cornerstone of Amazon MGM Studios’ suite of successful, high-quality tentpole fantasy series, and together, these series underscore the studio’s leadership in delivering premium storytelling to a global audience.

The Wheel of Time stars Rosamund Pike (Saltburn, Gone Girl) as Moiraine Damodred, Daniel Henney (Criminal Minds) as al’Lan Mandragoran, Josha Stradowski (Gran Turismo) as Rand al’Thor, Zoë Robins (Power Rangers Ninja Steel) as Nynaeve al’Meara, Madeleine Madden (Dora and the Lost City of Gold) as Egwene al’Vere, Marcus Rutherford (Obey) as Perrin Aybara, Dónal Finn (Rogue Heroes) as Mat Cauthon, Ceara Coveney (Young Wallander) as Elayne Trakand, Kate Fleetwood (Harlots) as Leandrin Guirale, Natasha O’Keeffe (Peaky Blinders) as Lanfear, Ayoola Smart (Killing Eve) as Aviendha, Kae Alexander (Game of Thrones) as Min Farshaw, Sophie Okenedo (Hotel Rwanda, Slow Horses) as Siuan Sanche, and Shohreh Aghdashloo (House of Saddam, The Penguin) as Elaida do Avriny a’Roihan.

The Wheel of Time was adapted for television by executive producer and showrunner Rafe Judkins (Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D., Hemlock Grove). Rick Selvage and Larry Mondragon of two productions (Winter Dragon), Ted Field of Radar Pictures (Jumanji: The Next Level, Winter Dragon), Mike Weber (Jumanji: The Next Level, Beirut), Marigo Kehoe (Outlander, The Crown), Ciaran Donnelly (Kin), Justine Juel Gillmer (The Survivor, Halo), Dave Hill (Game of Thrones) and Rosamund Pike (Saltburn, Gone Girl) also serve as executive producers. The Wheel of Time is co-produced by Sony Pictures Television and Amazon MGM Studios.

23rd January 2025: Vrindavan Chandrodaya Mandir and the Hare Krishna Movement are currently participating in the Maha Kumbh Mela 2025, the World’s largest spiritual gathering, held in Prayagraj from January 13 to February 26, 2025. Millions of devotees, visitors, sadhus and saints of different sects will converge at the sacred confluence of the three rivers, the Ganga, Yamuna and Saraswati.

In this 45-day grand event, Vrindavan Chandrodaya Mandir aspires to enrich the spiritual and cultural experience of everyone visiting Kumbh Mela. Vrindavan Chandrodaya Mandir and Hare Krishna Movement are actively contributing to this once-in-12-year festival of faith and culture through various devotional, spiritual and social initiatives on the sacred land of Prayagraj.

Talking about the Maha Kumbh Mela, Sri Chanchalapathi Dasa, President – Vrindavan Chandrodaya Mandir and Vice Chairman & Co-Mentor- Hare Krishna Movement said, “Kumbh Mela this year is called Maha Kumbh Mela. Once in 12 years comes a Purna Kumbh Mela and 12 such cycles later, Kumbh Mela that comes is called Maha Kumbh Mela. So. this Maha Kumbh Mela is coming after 144 years. Hence, it is a very special Kumbh Mela.”

He added, ”In 1971, Srila Prabhupada (Founder – Acharya of the Worldwide Hare Krishna Movement) personally participated in the Kumbh Mela and invited devotees worldwide to join him. He considered it a wonderful opportunity in distributing Krishna consciousness. So, this year too, we are having Bhagavat Katha, Harinaam Sankirtan, Distribution of books like Bhagavad Gita and very importantly – Profuse Prasadam Distribution. You will be able to participate in all these festivities. Do come and join us.”

Key Initiatives and Services by Vrindavan Chandrodaya Mandir

1. Annadan Seva: One of the significant services, through Annadan Seva, we aim to provide over 20,000 nutritious and fresh meals daily to all the pilgrims and sadhus.
2. Blanket Distribution: Free blankets will be distributed to the pilgrims, saints and visitors to protect them from freezing cold weather.
3. Book Distribution: Distribution of Vedic literatures like Bhagavad Gita, Srimad Bhagavatam and others to spread the spiritual wisdom to all the visitors and pilgrims.
4. Pravachan / Spiritual Discourses: Daily discourses on the Bhagavad Gita and Srimad Bhagavatam will be conducted by the senior devotees on a daily basis to inspire and encourage the visitors towards spiritual enlightenment and knowledge.
5. Nagar Sankirtan and Shobha Yatra: Daily processions will be organised where the Deities will be taken around on a palanquin accompanied by sankirtan and devotional prayers.

Facilities at Mahakumbh Mela by Vrindavan Chandrodaya Mandir

1. Katha Hall: A spacious Katha hall where spiritual discourses are held will be facilitated, which can accommodate 1000 people at a time.
2. Temple Hall: A temple where Deities will be worshipped with Sankirtana, arati and other pujas.
3. Mega Kitchen: The well-equipped mega kitchen with trained staff, who will prepare and serve more than 20,000 meals everyday.
4. Food Distribution Hall: The Food Distribution or Feeding Hall is planned to accommodate 1,000 people per batch with clean water and sitting facility.

The Vrindavan Chandrodaya Mandir and Hare Krishna Movement Camp is located at Sector 6, Near Nag Vasuki Temple, Maha Kumbh Mela, Prayagraj.

Important Dates

13 January, 2025: Paush Poornima

14 January, 2025: Makar Sankranti

29 January, 2025: Mauni Amavasya

03 February, 2025: Basant Panchami

04 February, 2025: Achala Saptami

12 February, 2025: Maghi Purnima

26 February, 2025: Maha Shivratri

Noida: Wishing to represent the idea on the International Day of Education, the Director General, IMS Noida, Prof. Dr. Vikas Dhawan believes that this country needs absolute change in policies of education and it should be given prominence by the government in the upcoming Union Budget 2025.

Speaking of challenges and opportunities, Dr. Dhawan said that “education forms the cornerstone of a thriving nation” and it becomes imperative for India to align the policies with international standards while taking on the unique socio-economic fabric of the country. There is a potential in the union budget to overcome the lacuna in quality education, skill development, and inclusive access. For him, focus areas include –

1.  Budgetary Expenditure Adjustment: NEP 2020 should increase expenditure on education to at least 6% of the GDP, along with infrastructure, training, and so forth, in the same area.
2.  Learning by Skills: There should be policies that facilitate cooperation between industry and academia with such an intent that the emerging industries, be it AI or renewable energy, blockchain so, students learn the practicals, hands by skill.
3.  Digital Education: Establish wholesome high-speed internet in rural and semi-urban regions, affordable electronics, and wide e-learning modules.
4.  Teacher Empowerment: Upskilling teachers at the national level on innovative teaching methods and hybrid learning space transformation.
5.  Higher Education Support: Grants for research and innovation on topics of STEM, as well as international collaborations with Indian universities.

According to him, scholarships must also be more inclusive. “I will request the government to increase scholarship funding and underprivileged group programs, particularly girl child and other marginalized sections”, Dr. Dhawan added.

Dr. Dhawan concluded, “The International Day of Education reminds us that we, collectively, bear responsibility for shaping the future through learning. The Union Budget 2025 needs to reflect this vision of building up every single student, every single educator, and every single institution to their maximum potential.”.

IMS Noida has always been ahead of the curve with transformative initiatives that relate to its mission of excellence in education and preparing for the fast-changing demands of this dynamic world.

New Delhi, 23rd January 2025: BC Jindal Group, India’s leading conglomerate with over Rs. 18,000 crore turnover, has announced that its renewable energy arm, Jindal India Renewable Energy (JIRE), sets sight on expansion and is actively pursuing aggressive acquisitions of operational assets both domestically and abroad. This is in line with the company’s goal to expand its capacity to 5 GW within the next four years. These acquisitions are anticipated to be finalized in 1-2 years and will be funded through a mix of internal accruals and debt.

JIRE aims to generate 5 GW of power from solar, wind, hybrid, hydro, and FDRE modes. To achieve this JIREL is focused on the acquisition of an operational portfolio in the initial couple of years. In parallel JIRE is focused on establishing its presence in renewable energy-rich states by developing Renewable projects connected to the grid at CTU and STU to meet the energy demands of utilities as well as Industrial and Commercial (C&I) customers.

Commenting on the announcement, Mr. Amit Kumar Mittal, CEO, of Jindal India Renewable Energy, said, “In 2025-2026, we are looking to strategically expand our capacity portfolio by acquiring key operational assets within the country and across geographies. JIRE seeks to enhance its play in the RE segment which will increasingly throw up huge opportunities as India’s energy mix undergoes a fundamental transition. For JIRE, these acquisitions will be crucial in shaping the growth trajectory of the company in the coming years.”

With an existing portfolio of 1,200 MW thermal power generation in Angul, Odisha, BC Jindal Group had recently floated its dedicated entity, JIRE, to hold the renewable venture of the group. This company will oversee the renewable power generation, solar cells, and module manufacturing businesses.

Jindal India Renewable Energy operates under the BC Jindal Group, founded in 1952 by Shri B.C. Jindal. Originally a steel pipe and fittings manufacturer, the group has grown into one of India’s leading conglomerates with a significant presence in the power sector. JIRE’s initiative represents a forward-thinking approach to energy diversification. With a focus on environmental well-being at the core of its inception, BC Jindal Group’s commitment extends beyond compliance to a genuine dedication to preserving the environment for future generations.

Mumbai, India, 23rd January 2025: Paras Defence & Space Technologies Limited (Paras Defence), a leader in optics and optronic systems for defence and space, is set to invest Rs. 12000 crores to establish India’s first Optics Park in Maharashtra. In this regard, the defence company signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Government of Maharashtra (GoM). The announcement, made at the prestigious World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland, marks a historic milestone in India’s journey toward self-reliance in advanced optical technologies.

The monumental investment is set to create a state-of-the-art technology hub that will reshape India’s optics and optical systems sector and establish itself as a World Leader in Optical Technologies. It also reaffirms Paras Defence’s commitment to the ‘Make in India’ initiative while advancing India’s aspirations for technological independence in critical sectors. The project is poised to generate over 2,000 direct employment opportunities and catalyze technological advancements across key industries such as defence, space, automotive, industrial, and commercial applications.

Under the planned MoU, the Government of Maharashtra has pledged its comprehensive support to Paras Defence in securing land, various incentives and approvals to bring this ambitious project to fruition.

Speaking about the announcement, Munjal Sharad Shah, Managing Director, Paras Defence & Space Technologies Ltd, stated, “The Optics Park reflects our unwavering commitment to advancing India’s technological capabilities. This revolutionary project will not only boost the domestic manufacturing ecosystem but also solidify India’s position as a global innovation hub. Our Optics Park will bridge technological gaps and create opportunities for knowledge exchange, innovation, and growth across sectors. This initiative represents a monumental milestone for both Paras Defence and India’s technological aspirations.”

Commenting on the partnership, [Spokesperson from Government of Maharashtra] said, “We are proud to collaborate with Paras Defence to drive innovation and foster technological leadership in Maharashtra for Optical Technologies for Defence, Space, Automotive, Semiconductor and other applications. This project exemplifies our commitment to establishing the state as a hub for advanced industries and investments.”

The Optics Park, a greenfield project, is a cornerstone of Paras Defence’s vision to transform India into a self-reliant hub for optics and optical systems, eliminating dependence on foreign technologies. Paras Defence plans to leverage its robust network of mentor institutions, international partnerships, and it’s access to Capital Markets, FDI and domestic investors etc. to deliver on this ambitious project.

Hyderabad, January 23, 2025: Bringing together, 3500 athletes from 29 different sports, across all the 12 districts of Meghalaya, the 6th Edition of Meghalaya Games, 2025 was inaugurated at the Wahiajer Stadium, Jowai, by Hon’ble Chief Minister Shri Conrad K. Sangma. The biggest annual multi-sport event of the state showcases Meghalaya’s sporting prowess and its readiness to host national-level competitions, with the 2027 National Games on the horizon. The Meghalaya Games, 2025 will also host three traditional sports of the state, Mawpoin, Rah Moo Khrah and An’Ding Oka, reflecting the state’s commitment to preserve and promote indigenous sports.

Addressing a packed stadium, Hon’ble Chief Minister Shri Conrad K. Sangma stated that these games are not just sports but the Government’s investment in its youth. He said, “As a government, we have always mentioned to all of you that the youth are a very important part of our policy making; of the schemes that we implement; of the work that this government does. And this particular game and the four games that happened during the tenure of this government is a testament of this commitment to our youth. We ensure that these games are held on a rotation basis because we know that every region has its strengths. Every region and every district must be developed and allowed to host games like these. Today, with the hosting of this game, lot of infrastructure development has taken place in the Jowai area and West Jaintia hills as a whole. whether it is about road construction or its improvement of buildings or construction of massive stadium like this.”

Notably, for the first time, the Meghalaya games will feature seven para-athletes, four women, and three men, set to take part in the para-shooting event (pistol and rifles).

The state anthem filled the air, followed by a dynamic parade of athletes, symbolizing unity, and the indomitable spirit of Meghalaya’s youth. A special highlight of the evening was the singing of the Games’ theme song, “Niom Beit Naphang”. The official mascot, “U Kiang,” inspired by the clouded leopard and a tribute to the legendary freedom fighter U Kiang Nangbah, was a poignant reminder of Meghalaya’s rich cultural heritage and resilient spirit.

In his speech, Hon’ble Minister of Sports & Youth Affairs, Shri Shakliar Warjri, highlighted the transformative impact of sports in Meghalaya, thanking each and every one who has worked hard to make the Meghalaya Games, light of the day. He stated that beyond wins and losses, the games like this become a platform for people to visit various parts of the state, for the first time; just like the 6th edition of the games has made many people travel to Jaintia Hills for the first time. We aim to ensure that the athletes who have performed well in these games go on to represent and excel in global events like the Olympics.

The previous edition of the Meghalaya Games 2024, inaugurated by Hon’ble President of India, Smt Droupadi Murmu held at P A Sangma Stadium, Tura, left an indelible mark on Meghalaya’s sporting legacy. The games had over 3000 participants competing across 22 sporting disciplines which included two demonstration sports. This year thus marks an increase in not only the number of participants but also competitive and four demonstration sports, including traditional sports of Meghalaya.

The games are set to award over 1,600 medals across six days of intense competition. The Games are set to be conducted across multiple venues in Jowai and other locations in West Jaintia Hills, under the supervision of 500 technical officials.

Shri John K Kharshing, President of MSOA, expressed the huge participation across all the districts of Meghalaya, as a testament and the significance of Government’s commitment to sports. He credited the Meghalaya Sports Policy, 2019 and its implementation, awards & scholarships, and the robust leadership of the Hon’ble Chief Minister in making the 6th edition of Meghalaya Games, this successful.

The event witnessed the esteemed presence of Shri Conrad K. Sangma, Hon’ble Chief Minister of Meghalaya; Shri Prestone Tynsong, Hon’ble Deputy Chief Minister of Meghalaya; Shri Sniawbhalang Dhar, Hon’ble Deputy Chief Minister of Meghalaya; His excellency Mr Sardor Mirzayusupovich Rustambaev, Ambassador to India, Embassy of Republic of Uzbekistan, Shri Shakliar Warjri, Hon’ble Minister of Sports & Youth Affairs; Hon’ble Minister of Health and Family Welfare, Dr. Mazel Ampareen Lyngdoh; Hon’ble MLA of Jowai Shri Wailadmiki Shylla, Hon’ble Power Minister Shri A.T Mondal; Hon’ble Minister of Revenue, Excise and Disaster Management, Shri Kyrmen Shylla, Hon’ble Minister of Food, Civil Supplies & Consumer affairs Shri Comingone Ymbon, Shri John F. Kharshiing, MSOA, Working President, MLAs and Key officials of the Government of Meghalaya.

MAHLE is completing the next important step in its transformation. The automotive supplier is streamlining its group structure to become faster and more efficient in the implementation of its strategy MAHLE 2030+. The changes include the reorganization and merger of business units in order to strengthen the strategic areas of electrification and thermal management, both structurally and in production. In the course of these changes, MAHLE will acquire all the remaining minority interests, amounting to almost 25 percent, in the thermal management specialist MAHLE Behr GmbH & Co. KG. The Group Management Board will be downsized from seven members at present to four in the future. “MAHLE is doing its homework for the transformation,” said Arnd Franz, Chairman of the Group Management Board and CEO. “Through these far-reaching changes, we will make our business ready for the future. We are accelerating the implementation of our group strategy which will position us as an innovative and sustainably profitable shaper of future mobility.” “Through the reorganization and the resulting streamlining of the Management Board, we will significantly improve the integration of our group and be able to make more effective use of synergies,” said Prof. Dr. Heinz K. Junker, Chairman of the MAHLE Supervisory Board.

Merging of business units

Effective January 1, 2025, MAHLE will reduce the number of its business units from five to three. Four existing business units will be merged to form two new business units. In doing so, the group is following industrial logic by pooling business areas with related production technology. “The reorganization of our business units will not only significantly accelerate internal cooperation. It will also offer new prospects for locations closely connected with the internal combustion engine and peripheral components. They will be able to contribute their industrial know-how to these future-oriented areas,” the CEO emphasized. In addition, he said that it would now be possible to form a high-performance production network and further reduce costs.

In future, the former business units “Engine Systems and Components”, and “Electronics and Mechatronics” will operate under the name of “Powertrain and Charging”. This way, MAHLE will strengthen its strategy field of electrification by allowing the focus areas of efficient electric motors and intelligent charging to benefit from the group’s over 100 years of experience with engine systems and components. An example of interaction between mechanical, electrical and electronics is the development of the electrical compressor, one of the company’s most successful products.

The activities of the former business units “Filtration and Engine Peripherals” and “Thermal Management” will be merged in the new business unit “Thermal and Fluid Systems”. Here, thermal management will be able to access production competencies in filtration developed within the group over many years, enabling it to place competitive future-oriented technologies on the market. MAHLE is committed to thermal management and intends to continue growth in this area. This is confirmed by the company’s decision to fully take over the affiliated company MAHLE Behr GmbH & Co. KG. with effect from January 1, 2025. MAHLE had acquired its first shares in the thermal management specialist in 2010 and had gradually increased its stake to slightly more than 75 percent since then.

“Following several major acquisitions in the thermal management field, this step will successfully complete the integration of this business in the MAHLE Group,” said Franz.

The Aftermarket business unit with its established product range and additional competence in electrification and digitalization will be continued as a separate business unit under the name of “Lifecycle and Mobility”.

Downsizing of Group Management Board

With this new group structure, the MAHLE Management Board will consist of the following four members from January 1, 2025:

Arnd Franz will continue to be the Chairman of the Management Board and CEO. In future, Human Resources will no longer be a separate Management Board function. Arnd Franz will also assume the function of statutory Labor Director. It has been mutually agreed with Dr. Beate Bungartz, the previous Labor Director and Member of the Management Board, that her work for the company will end. She has resigned from her positions with effect from November 29, 2024.

Markus Kapaun remains a Member of the Group Management Board and CFO

Jumana Al-Sibai, responsible to date for the “Thermal Management” business unit, will remain a Member of the Group Management Board, responsible for “Thermal and Fluid Systems” in the future. It has been mutually agreed with the previous Management Board Member responsible for the merged business unit of “Filtration and Engine Peripherals”, Martin Weidlich, that his work for the company will end. He has resigned from his positions with effect from November 29, 2024.

Georg Dietz, responsible to date for the “Engine Systems and Components” business unit, will remain a Member of the Management Board, responsible for “Powertrain and Charging” in the future. Martin Wellhoeffer, responsible for the merged “Electronics and Mechatronics” business unit, will transfer to the “Thermal and Fluid Systems” business unit as Chief Operating Officer (COO).

Supervisory Board thanks leaving Board Members

Prof. Dr. Heinz K. Junker, Chairman of the MAHLE Supervisory Board, who developed the new group structure in close cooperation with CEO Arnd Franz, said: “On behalf of the MAHLE supervisory bodies, I would like to thank the Management Board Members Dr. Beate Bungartz and Martin Weidlich, who are now leaving the group, for their excellent and dedicated work. In his five years with MAHLE, Martin Weidlich has performed great services both for the “Filtration and Engine Peripherals” business unit and in his group responsibility for operational excellence, production and purchasing. Over the past two years, Dr. Beate Bungartz has successfully continued the development of our human resources organization and has initiated the transformation dialog with employee representatives in Germany. Dr. Beate Bungartz and Martin Weidlich have my best wishes for their personal lives and careers in the future.

Equally, the supervisory bodies and I would like to thank Martin Wellhoeffer for his considerable commitment as a Management Board member. Under his leadership for almost two years, the “Electronics and Mechatronics” business unit has significantly expanded the competences of MAHLE in the fields of efficient electric drive systems and intelligent charging. We are convinced that Martin Wellhoeffer will forge ahead with the operational excellence and transformation as COO of what is to be our largest business unit in the future.”

As the crisp air of winter sets in, The Westin Mumbai Garden City introduces the Winter Garden – a celebration of the season’s finest moments. This curated concept captures the essence of winter through a series of events and experiences that invite guests to indulge, connect, and create cherished memories in a warm and inviting ambience.

Embark on a culinary journey like no other as The Westin Mumbai Garden City proudly presents the Truffle Fest at Prego, the hotel’s signature Italian dining destination. From 24th to 31st January 2025, indulge in an exclusive menu celebrating the luxurious and earthy flavours of truffles, curated to perfection by our expert chefs.
This week-long gastronomic celebration will feature an array of exquisitely crafted dishes, each infused with the rich aroma and flavour of premium truffles. Highlights of the Truffle Fest menu include:

Hand-dived Scallops with Sunchoke and Truffle Puree: A harmonious blend of oceanic freshness and earthy richness.

• Pizza Tartufata: A classic Italian favourite elevated with truffle indulgence.
• Black Truffle Tagliatelle with Parmesan and Scamorza Cream: A creamy delight for pasta lovers.
• Truffle-Scented Baked Potato Gnocchi with Sage: Comfort food taken to new heights.
• Black Truffle and Pancetta Risotto: A rich and velvety dish that’s pure perfection.
• One-Pot Chicken with Truffle Pesto and Wild Mushroom: A hearty and flavorful creation.
• Textures of White Chocolate with Truffle Ice Cream: A decadent dessert that redefines indulgence.

Each dish has been designed to showcase the unparalleled allure of truffles, making the Truffle Fest a must-visit for food enthusiasts and connoisseurs.

Event Details:

Dates: 24th to 31st January 2025

Venue: Prego, The Westin Mumbai Garden City

New Delhi, 23rd January 2025: Sony is pleased to announce new features and operational improvements have been added to the upcoming BURANO Version 2.0 firmware update. Planned to be released in March 2025, BURANO Version 2.0 offers many new features and improvements requested by the user community, including new recording formats, new 1.8x de-squeeze, and monitoring improvements.

BURANO Version 2.0: New Recording Formats

As previously announced, Version 2.0 will include new recording formats, including a new 3.8K Full Frame crop that leverages nearly the entire sensor and can shoot up to 120 fps and a 1.9K mode that can shoot up to 240 fps. These new recording modes allow the filmmaker to prioritise faster sensor performance depending on the needs of their application. Other new recording formats include the addition of 24.00 fps to X-OCN 16:9 imager modes and the following:

Full Frame	3.8K 16:9 Mode	Up to 120 fps	XAVC and X-OCN
Super 35	4.3K 4:3 Mode (for Anamorphic)	Up to 60 fps	X-OCN only
Super 35	1.9K 16:9 Mode	Up to 240 fps[i]	XAVC only

BURANO Version 2.0 will also add a 1.8x de-squeeze setting as well as additional high frame rate (S & Q) modes, including up to 66, 72, 75, 88, 90, 96, and 110 fps. It will also add proxy recording for 24.00 fps recording formats.

BURANO Version 2.0: Monitoring, SDI, and Metadata Improvements

In addition to the new recording formats, Version 2.0 offers various monitoring and metadata improvements, including standardised SDI video output for monitoring across X-OCN and XAVC[ii]. It adds breathing compensation and image stabilisation metadata in X-OCN, time code and clip name metadata to SDI output.

Based on feedback from BURANO users, Version 2.0 will offer an improved on-screen display that places camera status information outside of the image and also includes View Finder Gamma Display Assist while using S-Log3 for monitoring.  Version 2.0 will add 24V output to the PL Mount Voltage menu. In addition, it adds compatibility with Focus/Iris/Zoom control for PL Mount lenses while using the BURANO’s optional GP-VR100 handgrip.

BURANO Version 2.0: Improved Image Output and Added Exposure Tools

BURANO Version 2.0 will also include several image output improvements, including enhanced image output when using the preset S-Log3 look or 3D User LUTs. Additionally, Version 2.0 will enhance Auto Focus performance when recording with the following frame rates: 23.98, 24, 25, and 29.97.

Version 2.0 also includes additional exposure tools (High/Low Key) derived from the flagship VENICE camera system. It will also expand white balance memory presets from 3 to 8 and support Active/High Image Stabilisation in Full-Frame crop 6K and Super 35 1.9K 16:9 imager modes.

In addition, BURANO Version 2.0 will improve ease of use functionality with the ability to format media from the status screen as well as set CAM ID and Reel Number, which is standard for documentary and reality TV applications.  Version 2.0 will also change the factory default frequency setting from 59.94 to 23.98p and will add a setting to “reset to factory defaults” setting.

Finally, BURANO Version 2.0 will add live event and multicam functionality, including variable ND control from RCPs, improved camera control from Camera Remote SDK, and tally control for devices connected via LAN.

By Mr Sunil Sisodiya, Founder, Geetanjali Homestate
Goa has been in the news for years as the ultimate holiday destination due to its beautiful beaches and cultural lifestyle. This paradise by the coast is fast turning out to be the hub for high-net-worth individuals who wish to invest in luxury real estate across India and worldwide.
Premium properties in Goa are in high demand, driven by a combination of factors. The pandemic has forced people to work from home, and affluent professionals have been looking for homes that can provide them with serenity and a better quality of life. Goa, with its serene environment and modern amenities, fits the bill perfectly. Industry reports indicate that luxury property transactions in the state increased by 30% year on year in 2024, and this trend does not seem to be slowing down anytime soon.

The influx of high-net-worth individuals (HNWIs) has led to the development of upscale residential projects, particularly in areas like Assagao, Anjuna, and Morjim in North Goa. These locations are gaining popularity for their boutique villas, gated communities, and sea-facing apartments. The average price per square foot in these prime areas has risen by approximately 20% over the past year, reflecting strong market confidence.

Government policies have also contributed significantly to the growth of Goa’s real estate industry. The ease of doing business and smooth property registration process have made it easier for investors to enter the market. Moreover, the infrastructure development projects undertaken by the state, such as the expansion of the Dabolim Airport and the upcoming Mopa International Airport, have improved connectivity to Goa, making it an even more attractive destination.

Another driving factor is the robust rental market in Goa. With its thriving tourism industry, luxury properties often double as lucrative vacation rentals, offering investors steady returns. Industry estimates suggest that high-end villas in prime locations can yield rental incomes of up to 8-10% annually, a significant draw for buyers seeking both lifestyle and financial benefits.

However, experts would caution that there is due diligence in the process from the part of the prospective buyer. Legal clearances, property titles, and other environmental regulations would have to be cleared before a smooth transaction.

As Goa continues to evolve as a luxury real estate hub, it remains a testament to the growing trend of lifestyle-driven investments. The state’s unique charm, coupled with promising economic indicators, positions it as a preferred choice for discerning homebuyers in 2025.