WAVES Cosplay Championship Wildcard Showdown in Mumbai a Massive Hit as Over 50 Cosplayers Set the Stage on Fire

 

30 Finalists Selected for Grand Finale at Jio World Centre

Mumbai, 19 April 2025:

The city of dreams turned into a galaxy of fandoms as Mumbai hosted the explosive WAVES Cosplay Championship Wildcard Showdown, presented by Creators Street, the Indian Comics Association (ICA), and the Media & Entertainment Association of India (MEAI), and powered by Epiko Con, India’s next big pop culture festival, at Thakur Collage of Science and Commerce today, April 19th, 2025.

Held as a spectacular prelude to the WAVES Cosplay Championship grand finale, this blockbuster pre-event saw over 50 top-tier cosplayers from across the region lighting up the stage with high-octane performances, screen-accurate costumes, and electrifying fandom energy.

Out of the cosplayers participated, the Jury comprising Mr Venkatesh, Founder and CEO of Wharf Street Studios, Ajay Krishna of Forbidden Verse, and Anadi Abhilash, Secretary, Indian Comics Association, selected 30 wild card entries who will now meet at the grand finale which will be held at WAVES at Jio World Centre, Mumbai during May 1st to 4th, 2025.

A majestic portrayal of Lord Narasimha, bringing to life the power and divinity of India’s rich cultural heritage and appearances from celebrity guests, creators, and influencers within India’s growing cosplay community were the highlights of the event. A fan-fueled celebration packed with photo ops, spontaneous performances, and viral social media moments also added colour to the event.

The high-energy meetup wasn’t just a qualifier—it was a cultural phenomenon. Every moment at the venue captured the sheer power of community, creativity, and youth expression in India’s rising cosplay revolution. The Wildcard Showdown was a breakout success, setting the tone for what is being called India’s biggest cosplay movement to date. From incredible craftsmanship to compelling performances, the Mumbai showdown was a reminder that cosplay in India is not just growing—it’s booming.

“This event just proves how powerful the cosplay movement is becoming in India,” said one jury member. “The energy, the effort, the love for characters—it’s all real, and it’s growing bigger every year,” he said.

The grand finale will feature top cosplayers from across India and the winners will be awarded with cash prizes and exclusive showcases. The jury will have members top studios in animation, film, and gaming. The highlight of the championship is the collaborations with ICA, Forbidden Verse, TVAGA, MEAI, Creator Street, and the powerhouse of pop culture - Epiko Con.

 

About WAVES

The first World Audio Visual & Entertainment Summit (WAVES), a milestone event for the Media & Entertainment (M&E) sector, will be hosted by the Government of India in Mumbai, Maharashtra, from May 1 to 4, 2025.

Whether you're an industry professional, investor, creator, or innovator, the Summit offers the ultimate global platform to connect, collaborate, innovate and contribute to the M&E landscape.

WAVES is set to magnify India’s creative strength, amplifying its position as a hub for content creation, intellectual property, and technological innovation. Industries and sectors in focus include Broadcasting, Print Media, Television, Radio, Films, Animation, Visual Effects, Gaming, Comics, Sound and Music, Advertising, Digital Media, Social Media Platforms, Generative AI, Augmented Reality (AR), Virtual Reality (VR), and Extended Reality (XR).

Have questions? Find answers here  

Stay updated with the latest announcements from PIB Team WAVES

Come, Sail with us! Register for WAVES now

Maharashtra CM Inaugurates One of the Largest Global GI Endoscopy Conclaves in Mumbai, Honours Emerging Leaders in Digestive Health

 Conceptualized by Padmashri Dr Amit Maydeo, this year’s theme, "From Fibreoptics to Robotics," pays homage to six decades of evolution in GI endoscopy

Mumbai, April 19, 2025 – The 22nd edition of the Mumbai LIVE Endoscopy Course, hosted by Sir HN Reliance Foundation Hospital, was inaugurated by the state’s CM Devendra Fadnavis, marking the beginning of three days of cutting-edge knowledge-sharing, innovation, and hands-on learning in the field of gastrointestinal (GI) endoscopy. A gathering of more than 1200 gastroenterologists from India and from 15 countries, this conference was conceived by leading GI Endoscopist, Dr Amit Maydeo, Chairman of Gastrosciences of the Sir HN Reliance Foundation Hospital, Mumbai. 

Speaking at the function, Dr Amit Maydeo said, “Diseases of the Digestive system are on the exponential rise in the world and with the new GI Endoscopic treatment modalities, many can now be cured without the need for surgery. Using advanced technology, even cancers can now be detected in the very early stage and many illnesses can be cured using minimally invasive techniques.”

The 22nd Mumbai LIVE Endoscopy Course 2025 will feature 14 hours of LIVE endoscopy demonstrations, 24 Endoscopy Update Lectures, 3 Mumbai LIVE Orations, and 8 focused Breakfast Sessions. Highlights also included the ‘Kaun Banega Endoscopist’ video contest and Chai Pe Charcha breakout sessions. The event began with a Pre-conference workshop on IEE, EMR, and ESD, and covered key topics like AI-assisted colonoscopy, endoscopic sleeve gastroplasty, endohepatology, and third-space endoscopy. 

Dr. Tarang Gianchandani, Group CEO, Sir HN Reliance Foundation and  Reliance Foundation HealthCare Initiatives,  said, “We are proud to support platforms like Mumbai LIVE Endoscopy that empower clinical excellence and medical education on a global stage. The hospital is at the forefront of advancing technologically driven and AI driven treatment protocols for patients from all sections of the society. Robotic technology and power of 5g will make that happen sooner than we know. Future is not far when with robotic technology , skilled experts like Dr. Amit Maydeo will be able to do endoscopy with power of 5G in the remotest part of the country from 5G enabled hospital Sir HN Reliance Foundation hospital .”

Hon Chief Minister, Shri Devendra Fadnavis presented awards to the next-generation GI Endoscopy leaders from India in the ‘Mumbai LIVE Emerald awards’ function.  These awardees were selected by a jury consisting senior GI Endoscopists of the country. 

“The 22nd Mumbai LIVE Endoscopy Course is a remarkable event, and I commend Sir HN Reliance Foundation Hospital for hosting this prestigious gathering. It is inspiring to witness the confluence of global expertise and technological innovation in Mumbai. This is a reflection of the progressive vision we hold for Maharashtra and our nation,” said Mr. Devendra Fadnavis, Chief Minister of Maharashtra, during his inaugural speech.

Dr Amit Maydeo, the brainchild and chairman of this unprecedented event concluded that GI Endoscopy had come a long way over the past 70 years and was happy that India has been the leader in this phenomenal path of progress.

NMIMS School of Business Management’s Executive MBA (MBA-NEx): A Transformative 2 year Program for Professionals to Unlock Their Full Potential

 

Secure your spot — admissions for working professionals are now open! From one of the Top MBA Institutes of India!

Mumbai, 18th April 2025 — For ambitious professionals looking to advance their careers without taking a break from work, the NMIMS Executive MBA (MBA-NEx) 2-year program, offered by the NMIMS School of Business Management, provides a unique opportunity to gain a world-class management education. NMIMS SBM is a globally recognized institution known for its robust learning ecosystem, academic excellence, leadership-focused pedagogy, and industry - aligned curriculum.

Admissions to the MBA-NEx program for the academic year 2025–2027 are now open and will remain so from 1st April 2025 to 30th April 2025. This dynamic “Two-Year” Hybrid program, is specifically designed for working executives who aspire to grow into leadership roles while continuing to work. With live online sessions and immersive on-campus modules, the program offers a rigorous curriculum designed to enhance managerial capabilities and broaden industry perspectives, ultimately driving career growth.

With a problem-solving approach, the program blends theoretical concepts with real-world applications to develop skilled managers who can thrive in today's dynamic business environment. The MBA-NEx is a 102-credit, trimester-based, 2 year  program that integrates core and elective courses to equip professionals with a multidisciplinary understanding of business. Key focus areas include Strategy, Data Analytics, Marketing and Sales, HR- Leadership Management, Organisational behaviour, Economics, Finance, Product Management, AI Impact on Management, International Business and more.

The curriculum is designed to provide strategic insights and analytical frameworks that help professionals navigate complex business challenges. Core and elective modules span all critical areas of business management, including Operations and Supply Chain Management, Corporate Strategy, Leadership and Organisational Behaviour, and Analytics and Decision Science. A mandatory 6-credit industry project or dissertation ensures the reinforcement of learning and the development of a deeper business perspective.

The MBA-NEx , 2 year Program stands out with its prestigious AACSB & EQUIS accreditation, positioning it among the top business programs globally. With its flexible hybrid learning model, professionals can seamlessly balance work commitments with academic advancement. The industry-focused curriculum allows executives to learn from real-world business scenarios and engage with top industry leaders. Participants will also benefit from access to world-class campus infrastructure, including the Bloomberg Lab and a fully equipped library. They can build digital mastery through modules on Machine Learning, Blockchain, IoT, and Artificial Intelligence. Case Method Pedagogy, mainly from Harvard Case studies.

Enrolling in the program also grants “Lifetime NMIMS Alumni” status, offering access to a powerful professional network and exclusive alumni privileges.

The program fee is ₹8 Lakhs for the full two-year duration (Rs. 4 lakh per annum). Final selection is based on academic qualifications, work experience, a written test, and a personal interview. To be eligible, candidates must have a minimum of five years of full-time work experience in an executive, supervisory, or managerial role in a medium or large organization.

This program is ideal for professionals who aspire to grow, lead change, enhance their career trajectory, and step into senior leadership roles

About School of Business Management:

Narsee Monjee Institute of Management Studies (NMIMS) was established in Mumbai in the year 1981 by a leading public charitable education trust, Shri Vile Parle Kelavani Mandal (SVKM). NMIMS was established with the initial intent to offer management programs at the Diploma and Masters’ (graduate) level. Since its commencement in 1981, NMIMS has been offering Mumbai University (University of Bombay) programs like Masters in Management Studies, Diploma in Management Studies, Masters’ Program in Marketing Management, Human Resources Management and Finance Management. In 1991, the Government of India set up the All India Council for Technical Education (AICTE), a regulatory body created for technical education.

Website- https://sbm.nmims.edu/

Instagram- https://www.instagram.com/nmims_india/ 

Facebook- https://www.facebook.com/NMIMS.India 

LinkedIn- https://www.linkedin.com/school/417042/admin/

Twitter- https://twitter.com/nmims_india

At the iconic NGMA, Dr Rati Godrej unveils Reeta Ramamurthy Gupta's book " Win The Battle of Your Mind, Scroll, Less Read More"

The Reading Coach launches book on benefits of reading and perils of scrolling 

It was a packed audience at NGMA, including eminent names like Dr Swati Popat Vats of President of Podar, Rajiv Mehta of the Ratna Nidhi Charitable Trust, Silicon Valley leadership mentor Ravi Gundlapalli, Prerana Langa, CEO Aga Khan Agency for Habitat India, business owners, students and avid readers.

Nidhi Choudhari, director NGMA presided over the book launch as the very learned Dr Rati Godrej offered insights about how reading offers benefits, as potent as augmenting the longevity of human life itself. Author Reeta Ramamurthy Gupta, lovingly known as 'The Reading Coach' steered an exciting discussion that traversed the journey of the human brain, the acquisition of language and our ability to read, and how reading transformed us as a species. As it was time to unveil the cover of the book, Publisher Sohin Lakhani of Embassy Books did the honours, along with Dheeraj Gupta, founder Jumboking.

“This is an extremely important and relevant book for every student , parent and professional given the daily demands of digital technology in our lives," said Dr Rati Godrej, who had received an advance copy in preparation of the book launch.

"A reader is a leader, reading can connect us to places and to people. Reading makes a full man, not full of ego but full of awareness, full of understanding and full of surroundings, so do read, " said Nidhi Choudhari, Director, National Gallery of Modern Arts (NGMA), while addressing the audience.  

"Loss of skills due to lack of reading and its long-term impact on humanity, bothers me. This is why I became a reading coach," said author Reeta Ramamurthy Gupta at the launch. The book launch was followed by an engaging Q&A by a very involved audience.

David Dhawan brings together a strong ensemble for Hai Jawani Toh Ishq Hona Hai; Varun Dhawan and team head to Scotland for final schedule

After delivering box office hits like Main Tera Hero and Judwaa 2, Varun Dhawan is reuniting with his father David Dhawan for another comedy entertainer titled Hai Jawani Toh Ishq Hona Hai. The film, which also stars Mrunal Thakur and Pooja Hegde, has already completed over half of its shoot. Now, the team is gearing up for a major 30-day international schedule in Scotland, starting April 22.

“Apart from the leading pair of Varun, Mrunal, and Pooja, Hai Jawani Toh Ishq Hona Hai features Maniesh Paul, Jimmy Shergill, Mouni Roy, Chunkey Panday, Rakesh Bedi, and Ali Asgar in key roles. A lot of combination scenes, leading to chaos on screen will be shot in Scotland. The conclusion of Scotland schedule will lead to a film wrap, not-with-standing a couple of songs and some patchwork sequences,” the source shared. 

Produced by Ramesh Taurani under the Tips banner, Hai Jawani Toh Ishq Hona Hai sees Varun Dhawan return to his signature comic flair. The actor will also showcase his dancing skills on some vibrant desi tracks that echo the iconic style of David Dhawan’s cinema.

Fans are really excited to see Varun back in his lover-boy era!

DHIRUBHAI AMBANI HONOURED POSTHUMOUSLY WITH “LIFETIME ACHIEVMENT AWARD

     MUMBAI, 16TH APRIL 2025

 AMRIT MAHOTSAV OF SHREE MARKET SILK MERCHANTS ASSOCIATION ENDED ON 14TH APRIL, 2025 WITH ALL ITS GRANDEUR

Grand 75th anniversary celebrations of Shree Market Silk Merchants Association ended on 14th April at Garware Club House, Mumbai. During the celebrations, Chief Guest Mangal Prabhat Lodha, Maharashtra Cabinet Minister presented “Lifetime Achievement Award” posthumously to Late Dhirubhai Ambani, Founder of The Reliance Group. He also unveiled a Textile Souvenir on this occasion.

. Mangal Prabhat Lodha stated That India has a rich heritage of textiles. 400 years ago, Dhaka's muslin saree used to pass through the ring. The second phase of development was spent by Dhirubhai Ambani and he created a huge production capacity of fiber, yarn, textiles. The third phase has been created by Prime Minister Narendra Modi with the slogan 'Make in India'.

 Padmabhushan Kundanbhai Vyas, who was the Guest of Honour at the function, said that today Surat and Ahmedabad have overtaken while Mumbai has lagged behind in the production and trade of textiles. Mumbai's textile business will flourish only if Bhiwandi's power loom industry and Dombivli's processing industry flourish.  Mumbai is no longer a manufacturing centre, but a distribution centre, as the 8 small and big textile markets in the C ward have become outdated. These textile markets should be redeveloped and modernized and connectivity should be improved there.

Neeraj Mehta, newly elected President of Shree Market Silk Merchants Association, stated, "We are now on the cusp of a new era, new opportunities have emerged from sustainable fashion, digital transformation, global trade and innovation. We now have to take the rich legacy of 75 years of textile trade beyond Maharashtra to India and globally.  Referring to the Shree Market Silk Merchants Association Education Fund, Neeraj Mehta informed that with the help of Reliance Foundation, educational assistance has been provided to 650 students in the last four years. We provide educational assistance to the children of staff, gumasta and mathadi workers.

. Narendra Mehta, former President of Shree Market Silk Merchants Association, informed that our second important task is that of arbitration. The award that our arbitrator gives is also recognised by the law. First of all, we try to find a solution through mutual settlement and dialogue between the two parties. Our legal advisor is Advocate Rakesh Jain.

 Pankaj Sheth (Orbit Exports Ltd.), Guest of Honour & Sponsor of the event commented that this is a history, a tradition and a family journey. We, the merchants are the bridge between weavers and consumers. The role of traders is similar to that of service industries.  

  Smt. Sushma Morthania, Founder and Director, India SME Forum informed that 75 industrial hubs are coming up in the country, which should be availed by the industry.

2

Jayantilal Jain, Honorary Secretary of the association gave the vote of thanks.

PHOTOLINE:

Maharashtra Cabinet Minister Mangal Prabhat Lodha is seen presenting  “Lifetime Achievement Award” posthumously to Late Dhirubhai Ambani, during the Amrit Mahotsav celebrations of Shree Market Silk Merchants Association  on 14th April at Mumbai.

Seen Left to Right, Devang Shah, Narendra Mehta, Jayantilal Jain, Niraj Mehta, Mangal Prabhat Lodha, Kundanbhai Vyas and Ashwin Malkan.

Dinesh Vijan, Maddock Films and Sony Music India drop the love song of the year - Koi Naa- from Rajkummar Rao and Wamiqa Gabbi starrer Bhool Chuk Maaf!

_Rajkummar Rao & Wamiqa Gabbi light up the screen with their chemistry in the latest song Koi Naa, a romantic track composed by Tanishk Bagchi and Gifty._

Following the buzz around its captivating trailer, the much-awaited romantic comedy, from the house of Dinesh Vijan and Maddock Films - Bhool Chuk Maaf is back in the spotlight with the launch of its first track, ‘Koi Naa’. The teaser has already stirred excitement among fans, giving a glimpse of what’s in store. Backed by the visionary Dinesh Vijan, Bhool Chuk Maaf continues Maddock Films’ streak of delivering heartfelt and refreshing stories. Directed by Karan Sharma, the film stars the ever-versatile Rajkummar Rao and the talented Wamiqa Gabbi in the lead roles of Ranjan Tiwari and Titli Mishra. The film is set for a global release on May 9, 2025.

‘Koi Naa’ beautifully captures the dreamy and romantic essence of Bhool Chuk Maaf, offering a glimpse into the charming world of Ranjan and Titli. A soft and dreamy love anthem, the track explores silent glances, fleeting moments, and the delicate beginnings of love. With its tender lyrics and moving vocals, the song highlights the emotional heartbeat of the film. Composed by the enigmatic Tanishk Bagchi and Gifty, with poignant lyrics by Irshad Kamil, and produced by Tanishk Bagchi & Ganesh Waghela, the song is beautifully sung by Harnoor and Shreya Ghoshal - a musical pairing that radiates chemistry and charm. The music video offers a visual treat, packed with playful, romantic scenes between Rajkummar and Wamiqa, giving fans a peek into their delightful on-screen chemistry. It sets the perfect mood for the emotional and entertaining journey the film promises.

Sharing his excitement, Rajkummar Rao said, “The response to the trailer has been truly overwhelming, it’s always incredibly fulfilling when audiences connect with your work. With Koi Naa, we’re now adding a whole new romantic layer to the story. The song captures the quiet, unspoken emotions of love in such a beautiful way, it brings depth and soul to Ranjan and Titli’s journey. The first time I heard the track; I was completely hooked. It’s been on loop ever since! A big shout out to the entire music team for crafting such a heartfelt and vibey track.”

Wamiqa Gabbi, who brings elegance and effortless charm to the screen, added, “Shooting for ‘Koi Naa’ with Rajkummar was a blast! It’s hands down one of my favourites from the Bhool Chuk Maaf album. It makes you want to dream, feel, and just lose yourself in its rhythm. We hope everyone feels the same magic we felt while filming it.”

The singer of Koi Naa, Shreya Ghoshal, shared, “Bringing this track to life has been such an exciting ride! From the very first note, ‘Koi Naa’ pulls you into the whimsical world of Bhool Chuk Maaf. It's got the energy of love, and a beat that makes you move. Can’t wait for everyone to vibe with it!”

Harnoor, the singer of the track added, “‘Koi Naa’ is about the beauty of falling in love and how it captures the most raw and vulnerable state of two individuals who are in love. For me Koi Naa is something very special as it not only beautifully captures the emotion of love but it also gave me a chance to collaborate with one of India’s most talented singers, Shreya Ghoshal. I am grateful to be a part of this multi-talented team. in unexpected ways. We wanted to bring an experience that mirrors the emotional journey of the movie, captures the essence of Ranjan and Titli's character. 

Music composer Tanishq Bagchi said, “With Koi Naa, we wanted to create a timeless, all-consuming love track- something that lingers with you. Thanks to Irshad’s evocative lyrics and the amazing voices of Shreya Ghoshal and Harnoor, and our full-hearted production, I think we’ve hit the right note.”

Irshad Kamil added Creating 'Koi Naa' for 'Bhool Chuk Maaf' was truly a magical journey from start to finish. Koi Naa is not just a song but a feeling brought beautifully to life on screen by Rajkummar and Wamiqa. I feel truly grateful to have been part of a track so close to my heart. I hope audiences give it as much love as we felt while making it."

Bhool Chuk Maaf is all set to tell the story of Ranjan and Titli’s love urging to uncover the reason behind the endless cycle to set things right and take audiences on a ride of emotions. With a perfect mix of humour, heart, and mystery, the film promises an unforgettable cinematic ride. Catch it in theatres worldwide on May 9, 2025.

Listen to ‘Koi Naa’ from Bhool Chuk Maaf here: bit.ly/KoiNaa

*About Sony Music:* 

Sony Music Entertainment is a global recorded music company that has on its roster a rich and storied history of iconic artists like Beyonce, Michael Jackson, Shakira, Mariah Carey and Britney Spears and today’s superstars like Harry Styles, Camila Cabello, Travis Scott and Khalid, pan-Indian superstar Raftaar, pop sensation AKASA, new age artists like OAFF-Savera, Mitraz, Talwiinder and South India’s biggest acts like Anirudh, A.R. Rahman, GV Prakash, Yuvan Shankar Raja, Devi Sri Prasad, Thaman S, Vivek-Mervin, Darbuka Siva and Ghibran including several decades-long relationships with Dharma Productions, Maddock Films, Red Chillies Entertainment, Vishesh Films, Madras Talkies, Raaj Kamal Films International. Seven Screen Studio, The Route, Mythri Movie Makers, Vyjayanthi Movies and SVCC among others. On offer is a vast catalogue that comprises some of the most important recordings in history spread across multiple genres, languages, and geographies.