Shivakumar gave this response to the media on Saturday at Majestic and Kengeri railway stations.

“Through the Golden Chariot, we aim to introduce Karnataka’s tourist spots to the public and create employment. We do not need a profit from this. However, there should be no loss. We must all ensure that no loss is incurred. Everyone’s support is needed for this,” he said.

Golden Chariot is the Pride of Karnataka
“The Tourism Department’s ‘Karnataka Darshana’ scheme had been halted in between. After our government came to power and Minister K.J. George took charge, he revamped it and restarted the prestigious ‘Golden Chariot’. New tourist routes have been set, and luxury amenities provided. Already, 75 passengers are traveling,” he stated.

“Those who have not seen Karnataka completely should be encouraged to travel. For that purpose, the state government built special railway coaches and restarted the project by utilizing the Railway Department’s routes. Not just this, with the aim of introducing South Indian destinations, we have formulated another tourist circuit called ‘Jewels of the South’. We have prepared a route connecting great tourist centers like Hampi, Mahabalipuram, Mysuru, Bengaluru, Cochin, Chettinad, and others. A four-day tour package named ‘Dreams of Karnataka’ is also ready. Information regarding this will be provided in the coming days,” he said.

“In the entire country, there are 4 such special trains for tourism. Among these, only Karnataka and Rajasthan have 2 trains equipped with luxury amenities. Recently, tourists and foreign ambassadors from India and abroad visited Mysuru Dasara. Keeping everything in mind, our government is formulating many special programs with the intention of revamping tourist destinations in our state,” he said.

Let Golden Chariot Travel Be Affordable to the Common Man

‘Luxury train travel should not be restricted only to the rich. Common tourists of the state should also get the opportunity to travel on the Golden Chariot train to enjoy Karnataka’s historical, cultural, and natural beauty. With this objective, the government is considering providing travel options at lower rates during the off-season,” he stated.

Luxury Experience; People Should Also Get the Opportunity

“The Golden Chariot train features two restaurants. There is seating for about 80 passengers, and nearly 60 staff members work to serve them. There are many facilities including a spa, gym, and vegetarian and non-vegetarian dining options. Excellent arrangements have also been made for a comfortable overnight stay. I was very pleased to see everything. I too am waiting for an opportunity to travel on this train,” he said.

“This train is a valuable asset to Karnataka’s tourism. Re-launching this train, which could not be utilized properly in the past, and making it run on routes that attract tourists will complement the growth of tourism,” he expressed confidence.

Not Just for Outsiders, Let It Be for Our People Too

“Since Golden Chariot is a luxury train, the travel cost is slightly high. However, tourists from Karnataka should not be deprived of its benefits. The government’s intention is to attract more people by providing opportunities to travel at lower rates. This train should not be restricted only to tourists from other states. People of our Karnataka should also take advantage of it in large numbers. Discussions have also been held with the Railway Department in this regard,” he said.

New Energy for Tourism

“The Golden Chariot train service is being developed in collaboration with the Karnataka Tourism Department, Indian Railways, and IRCTC. In addition to benefiting tourists, this arrangement will boost local economic activities, including the hotel industry at tourist spots,” he said.

Route Expansion Without Affecting Regular Train Traffic

When asked about expanding the Golden Chariot train route, he stated, “When extending the route, discussions must be held with Railway Department officials. This should not cause any disruption to the regular movement of normal trains. Officials from both departments will discuss and finalize a suitable route.”

May the Journey of Golden Chariot Tourists Be Pleasant
“Golden Chariot is the pride of Karnataka. My gratitude to the Railway officials who extended their support. Best wishes to all tourists traveling on this special train,” wished the CM.

When asked if Union Minister V. Somanna was not invited to this event, he said, “Invitations have been extended to everyone. Somanna will join via video conference.”

Saudi Arabia Crisis; Helpline for Kannadigas

When asked about tourists from Karnataka stranded in Mecca, Saudi Arabia, he said, “I have written a letter to the Central Government regarding this. I am also in contact with the Minister of External Affairs. I have requested flight arrangements/security if needed. There are technical issues with flight operations. I will not speak much on this. Our officials are in continuous touch.”

“A helpline has been set up for Kannadigas. No one needs to panic. Our government, along with the Minorities Department and the Central Government, is with you,” he said.

The festival, hosted by the Bengaluru Rajput Sabha in Vasanth Nagar, Bengaluru, took place from October 11 to October 21. On the final day, (Oct. 21), rituals including the Maha Vijayadashami Puja, Shammi Puja and Devata Udvasanam (the ceremonial concluding rite for the deities) were performed. All the rituals were conducted by Mallikarjuna Shastri.

Prasadam and food were served to all those who attended the Vijayadashami Puja. Subsequently, Goddess Durga Devi and other idols—were taken in a grand procession and immersed in the lake at Ulsoor.

The event was attended by office-bearers of the Bengaluru Rajput Sabha, including President Ajit Singh, Vice-President D.R. Balaji Singh, General Secretary Balaji Singh R., Joint Secretaries Dr. N. Saras Chandra Singh and B.N. Nagarathna Bai, Treasurer Dinesh Singh S and Executive Committee members Heera Singh Balram, D.S. Krishna Singh, Lakshman Singh S. (retired DCP), Pratap Singh (retired ACP) and Chandra Singh.

Also present were members of the Sabha’s women’s wing: Nagarathna, Shobha Singh, Sulekha M.G., Durga Bai, Shivarani Bai, Madhumati, Asha R. Chauhan, and Lakshmi R. Many others, including Singh, Shakuntala Ram Singh, Shakuntala R. Singh, Sheetal Singh, Komal Singh, Prerana Singh, Latha Bai G, Rekha Singh, Sunita Singh, Pooja Singh, Manjula Bai, Manju P. Singh, Padma, Parvati Singh, Mala Devi and Kamani were in attendance.

On Tuesday (Oct. 20), The Niruthyalaya Art of Dance Acadamy—led by Bengaluru-based Natya Sevagi Guru Subbulakshmi Sekar—hosted a grand celebration for Vijayadashami and ‘Gejje Pooje’ at the Bengaluru Tamil Sangam in Ulsoor.

The ‘Gejje Pooje’ commenced at 11 AM on the occasion of Vijayadashami and concluded at 12 Noon. The proceedings began with a ritual offering (pooja) to Lord Nataraja, followed by the ceremony of adorning the feet of new Bharatanatyam students with gejjes (anklets). Dance Guru Subbulakshmi Sekar applied turmeric to the feet of these new students before placing the anklets on them.

Following this, anklets were also placed on the feet of students who had already been undergoing training in Bharatanatyam. The students then performed dances set to jathis (rhythmic sequences), as well as various musical compositions and songs. The audience, including parents and members of the public, cheered and applauded the students for their impressive performances.

The dance event was held with great grandeur, featuring performances by students including Kumari Kushvitha, Varshini, Vernika Pradhan, Chaithanya, Nishitha, Jeshvitha, Vishnupriya Pachi, Nivasni, Rakshitha, Akshara, Tejaswari, Lenuska, Swethashree, Hashini, Vanshika, Ruthiksha, Vaishnavi, Nisha, Thithi, Sandra, Lahasya, Anushree, Neethu, Sharika, Jessica, ashana and Parol. At the conclusion of the event, Subbulakshmi Sekar expressed her gratitude to all the participants.

ಈ ಯೋಜನೆಯಡಿ, ಸಾರ್ವಜನಿಕರು ತಮ್ಮ ಹಳೆಯ ರೇಷ್ಮೆ ಸೀರೆಗಳನ್ನು (ಬೆಳ್ಳಿಯ ಜರಿ ಇರುವ ಸೀರೆಗಳು) ಅವುಗಳ ಮೌಲ್ಯಮಾಪನದ ಆಧಾರದ ಮೇಲೆ ಹೊಸ ರೇಷ್ಮೆ ಸೀರೆಗಳು ಅಥವಾ ಇತರ ಬಗೆಯ ವಸ್ತ್ರಗಳೊಂದಿಗೆ ಬದಲಾಯಿಸಿಕೊಳ್ಳಬಹುದು. ಇದರೊಂದಿಗೆ, ಶೇಕಡಾ 30 ರಷ್ಟು ವಿಶೇಷ ಹಬ್ಬದ ರಿಯಾಯಿತಿಯನ್ನೂ ನೀಡಲಾಗುತ್ತಿದೆ.

ದೀಪಾವಳಿ ಹಬ್ಬದ ನಿಮಿತ್ತ ಹೊಸ ಬಣ್ಣಗಳು ಮತ್ತು ವಿನ್ಯಾಸಗಳ ರೇಷ್ಮೆ ಸೀರೆಗಳನ್ನು ಇಲ್ಲಿ ಸಂಗ್ರಹಿಸಿಡಲಾಗಿದೆ. ಸಾರ್ವಜನಿಕರು ಈ ವಿಶೇಷ ಅವಕಾಶದ ಸದುಪಯೋಗ ಪಡೆದುಕೊಳ್ಳಬೇಕೆಂದು ಕೋ-ಆಪ್ಟೆಕ್ಸ್‌ನ ಪ್ರಾದೇಶಿಕ ವ್ಯವಸ್ಥಾಪಕ (ಬೆಂಗಳೂರು) ವಿ. ಬಾಲಸುಬ್ರಮಣಿಯನ್ ಮನವಿ ಮಾಡಿದ್ದಾರೆ.

ಈ ಶೋರೂಮ್ ಪ್ರತಿದಿನ ಬೆಳಿಗ್ಗೆ 10:00 ರಿಂದ ರಾತ್ರಿ 8:30 ರವರೆಗೆ ಕಾರ್ಯನಿರ್ವಹಿಸುತ್ತದೆ ಮತ್ತು ಭಾನುವಾರಗಳಂದು ಕೂಡ ತೆರೆದಿರುತ್ತದೆ.

ವಿಳಾಸ: ಕೋ-ಆಪ್ಟೆಕ್ಸ್, ನಂ. 109 ಮತ್ತು 110, ಗಾಂಧಿ ಬಜಾರ್, ಬಸವನಗುಡಿ, ಬೆಂಗಳೂರು – 560004.
ಸಂಪರ್ಕ ಸಂಖ್ಯೆ: 8124263646.

Addressing the gathering, the guest of honour, Mr. Srinidhi Bengaluru, writer, director and Kannada filmmaker known for his movies ‘Blink’, ‘Jerax’ and ‘Video’ enthused the aspiring young filmmakers stating, “A film may begin with a script, but the process of filmmaking gives the story, a life of it’s own.” Further emphasizing on the importance of participation in challenges like Cinemates 4.0, he expressed “The real achievement is not always winning; it is having the courage to participate and put your work out there. Whether it’s a 48-hour filmmaking challenge or a feature film, the process will test you, but creating a film remains the best job in the world.”

Dr. Shraddha Kanwar, Chief Academic Officer, JAIN (Deemed-to-be University), commended “The 48-hour short film making challenge is a celebration of human creativity, where imagination, emotion and storytelling come together under extraordinary constraints.” She further emphasised, “Technology may enable filmmaking, but human imagination remains the most powerful force behind cinema.”

Dr Bhargavi D Hemmige, HOD, Department of Journalism and Mass Communication, JAIN (Deemed-to-be University) applauded the participants and stated, “the participants battled corrupted memory cards, lost voices, unexpected background noise, and sleep deprivation and yet they did not quit. That grit is the true magic of cinema.” Further she added,

“Constraints don’t limit creativity; they spark it. Inspired by films like Swayamwara, which was shot in less than 24 hours and Vishwaguru, created under 51 hours, which holds a Guinness World Record for being produced as a full-fledged feature film. Exactly 48 hours ago, our participants began with a blank page, a few prompts, and a ticking clock. Today, they stand as young filmmakers, having created a short film in 48 hours, what often takes months or even years by experts.”

More than 25 teams across India participated in Cinemates 4.0, with 11 teams being shortlisted by the jury. The prelude for Cinemates 4.0 featured a Five-day workshop with sessions led by Aadarsh Eshwarappa, Director, Writer and Actor on 7th and 8th September, 2026 followed by sessions conducted by Chandra Keerthi, a Kannada theatre practitioner from 9th to 11th September, offering students’ practical insights into screenwriting, storytelling, theatre, and visual expression.

As part of National Cinema Day, Cinemates 4.0 brought together movie enthusiasts and aspiring filmmakers for an engaging celebration of cinema, creativity, culture, and ideas. The programme will also feature “Mise-en-Scène” an intra-collegiate exhibition exploring the creative diversity of Indian cinema through themes such as horror, sci-fi, comedy, romance, thriller, and biopic on 22nd September, 2026.

He has worked in Chennai, Salem, and Palakkad divisions of Southern Railway and Bangalore Division of South Western Railway. He has been associated with Electric Loco Maintenance and operations, as well as construction & maintenance of traction distribution. Prior to assuming charge, he was Executive Director in the Railway Board, in charge of Electric and Diesel locomotives and crew.

Organised by Golden Creeper Enterprises, the three-day exhibition will be held at Taj West End, Race Course Road, and will feature more than 50 leading jewellers and over 50,000 jewellery designs for visitors.

The exhibition will be inaugurated by actor Sonal Monteiro at 12.30 pm on August 29.

The show will feature a wide variety of gold and diamond jewellery in both traditional and contemporary designs, giving customers an opportunity to explore and choose from diverse collections at a single venue.

Special emphasis has also been placed on quality and certification, with BIS-hallmarked gold jewellery and GIA/IGI-certified diamond jewellery to be showcased. Customers will also have access to services including exchange of old jewellery.

“The objective of ‘The Jewellery Show’ is to bring some of the finest designs from different cities and jewellery markets to customers in Bengaluru on a single platform. Through quality, design and variety, we aim to provide visitors with a distinctive jewellery shopping experience,” the organisers said.

The three-day exhibition is open to visitors free of charge and will provide Bengaluru customers an opportunity to explore and purchase a wide variety of jewellery designs under one roof.

ಬೆಂಗಳೂರು ಇಂದು ಸುಮಾರು 67,000 ನೋಂದಾಯಿತ ಐಟಿ ಮತ್ತು ಟೆಕ್ ಕಂಪನಿಗಳ ತವರೂರಾಗಿದೆ. ನಗರದ ಐಟಿ ಮತ್ತು ತಂತ್ರಜ್ಞಾನ ವಲಯವು ನೇರ ಹಾಗೂ ಪರೋಕ್ಷವಾಗಿ ಸುಮಾರು 10 ಲಕ್ಷದಿಂದ 25 ಲಕ್ಷ ಜನರಿಗೆ ಉದ್ಯೋಗಾವಕಾಶಗಳನ್ನು ಒದಗಿಸುತ್ತಿದೆ. ಈ ಬಲವನ್ನು ರಾಜ್ಯದ ಕೌಶಲ್ಯಾಭಿವೃದ್ಧಿ ಮತ್ತು ಶಿಕ್ಷಣ ವ್ಯವಸ್ಥೆಯೊಂದಿಗೆ ಮತ್ತಷ್ಟು ಪರಿಣಾಮಕಾರಿಯಾಗಿ ಜೋಡಿಸುವ ಅಗತ್ಯವಿದೆ ಎಂದು ಹೇಳಿದರು.

ಕರ್ನಾಟಕದ ಶಿಕ್ಷಣ ಸಂಸ್ಥೆಗಳು ಕೇವಲ ಉದಯೋನ್ಮುಖ ತಂತ್ರಜ್ಞಾನಗಳನ್ನು ಬೋಧಿಸುವ ಕೇಂದ್ರಗಳಾಗಿರದೆ, ಅವುಗಳ ಪರೀಕ್ಷಾ ಶಿಬಿರಗಳಾಗಬೇಕು. ವಿದ್ಯಾರ್ಥಿಗಳು ಎಂಎಸ್‌ಎಂಇಗಳು, ರೈತರು, ಸಾರ್ವಜನಿಕ ಸೇವೆಗಳು ಮತ್ತು ಸ್ಥಳೀಯ ಸಮುದಾಯಗಳು ಎದುರಿಸುತ್ತಿರುವ ನೈಜ ಸಮಸ್ಯೆಗಳ ಪರಿಹಾರಕ್ಕಾಗಿ ತಂತ್ರಜ್ಞಾನವನ್ನು ಬಳಸುವಂತಾಗಬೇಕು ಎಂದುಆಶಯ ವ್ಯಕ್ತಪಡಿಸಿದರು.

ಕಾಲೇಜಿನ ಪ್ರಯೋಗಾಲಯದಲ್ಲಿ ಅಭಿವೃದ್ಧಿಪಡಿಸುವ ಪರಿಹಾರಗಳು ಅಲ್ಲಿಯೇ ಸೀಮಿತವಾಗದೆ, ಕಾರ್ಖಾನೆಗಳು, ಸ್ಟಾರ್ಟ್‌ಅಪ್‌ಗಳು ಹಾಗೂ ಸರ್ಕಾರಿ ಯೋಜನೆಗಳವರೆಗೆ ತಲುಪುವಂತಾಗಬೇಕು. ಅಂತಹ ಪರಿಹಾರಗಳೇ ಸಮಾಜಕ್ಕೆ ಪ್ರಯೋಜನವನ್ನು ತಂದುಕೊಡಬಲ್ಲವು ಎಂದು ತಿಳಿಸಿದರು.

ಇದೇ ವೇಳೆ, ಕೌಶಲ್ಯಾಭಿವೃದ್ಧಿ ಕ್ಷೇತ್ರದಲ್ಲಿ ನೀಡಲಾಗುತ್ತಿರುವ ಉತ್ಕೃಷ್ಟ ಪ್ರಶಸ್ತಿಗಳು ಕೇವಲ ಸಾಧನೆಗೆ ನೀಡುವ ಗೌರವವಾಗಿರದೆ, ಕೌಶಲ್ಯಾಭಿವೃದ್ಧಿಯನ್ನು ಅನುಸರಣೆಯ ಕರ್ತವ್ಯವಾಗಿ ನೋಡದೆ, ದೀರ್ಘಕಾಲೀನ ಬದ್ಧತೆಯಾಗಿ ಮುನ್ನಡೆಸುತ್ತಿರುವ ಕಾರ್ಪೊರೇಟ್ ಸಂಸ್ಥೆಗಳು, ಎಂಎಸ್‌ಎಂಇಗಳು, ಪಿಎಸ್‌ಯುಗಳು, ಸ್ಟಾರ್ಟ್‌ಅಪ್‌ಗಳು ಹಾಗೂ ಶಿಕ್ಷಣ ಸಂಸ್ಥೆಗಳನ್ನು ಗುರುತಿಸುವ ಮಹತ್ವದ ವೇದಿಕೆಯಾಗಿವೆ ಎಂದು ಹೇಳಿದರು.

ಪ್ರಶಸ್ತಿ ಸ್ವೀಕರಿಸಿದ ಸಂಸ್ಥೆಗಳು ತಮ್ಮ ಯಶಸ್ವಿ ಮಾದರಿಗಳನ್ನು ಇತರರೊಂದಿಗೆ ಹಂಚಿಕೊಳ್ಳಬೇಕು, ಮತ್ತೊಂದು ಸಂಸ್ಥೆಗೆ ಮಾರ್ಗದರ್ಶನ ನೀಡಬೇಕು ಹಾಗೂ ಯುವಜನರಿಗೆ ಹೊಸ ಅವಕಾಶಗಳ ಬಾಗಿಲು ತೆರೆಯಬೇಕು ಇತರ ಸಂಸ್ಥೆಗಳು ಅನುಸರಿಸಬಹುದಾದ ಬಲವಾದ ಮಾನದಂಡವನ್ನು ಸ್ಥಾಪಿಸುವುದು ಇಂತಹ ಪ್ರಶಸ್ತಿಗಳ ನಿಜವಾದ ಉದ್ದೇಶವಾಗಿದೆ ಎಂದು ಹೇಳಿದರು.

ಸಮಾವೇಶದ ಯಶಸ್ಸನ್ನು ಕೇವಲ ಹಾಜರಿದ್ದವರ ಸಂಖ್ಯೆಯಿಂದ ಅಳೆಯಲಾಗದು. ನಾಳೆಯ ಕರ್ನಾಟಕವನ್ನು ಕೇವಲ ತಂತ್ರಜ್ಞಾನದಿಂದ ನಿರ್ಮಿಸಲಾಗುವುದಿಲ್ಲ ತಂತ್ರಜ್ಞಾನವನ್ನು ನೈಪುಣ್ಯ, ಕಲ್ಪನೆ ಮತ್ತು ಉದ್ದೇಶದೊಂದಿಗೆ ಬಳಸಬಲ್ಲ ಜನರ ಮೂಲಕವೇ ನಿರ್ಮಿಸಬಹುದು ಎಂಬ ಆಶಯವನ್ನು ವ್ಯಕ್ತಪಡಿಸಿದರು.

ಸಮಾವೇಶವು ಕೌಶಲ್ಯವಂತರಾದ, ಸಮಾವೇಶಾತ್ಮಕ, ಹೊಸತನಕ್ಕೆ ತೆರೆದಿರುವ ಹಾಗೂ ಜಾಗತಿಕವಾಗಿ ಮುನ್ನಡೆಸಲು ಸಿದ್ಧವಾಗಿರುವ ಕರ್ನಾಟಕ ನಿರ್ಮಾಣಕ್ಕೆ ಎಲ್ಲರೂ ಒಟ್ಟಾಗಿ ಕೈಜೋಡಿಸೋಣ ಎಂದರು.

ಪ್ರಶಸ್ತಿ ಪ್ರದಾನ ಸಮಾರಂಭ ಕಾರ್ಯಕ್ರಮದಲ್ಲಿ ಶ್ರೀ ಎಫ್‌ ಆರ್‌ ಸಿಂಘ್ವಿ, ಜಂಟಿ ವ್ಯವಸ್ಥಾಪಕ ನಿರ್ದೇಶಕರು, ಸನಸೇರಾ ಇಂಜಿನಿಯರಿಂಗ್‌ ಪ್ರೈ ಲಿ., ಡಾ ಇ ವಿ ರಮಣ ರೆಡ್ಡಿ,, ಭಾ ಆ ಸೇ, (ನಿ), ಛೇರ್ಮನ್‌, ಕರ್ನಾಟಕ ಸ್ಕಿಲ್‌ ಡೆವಲಂಪ್ ಮೆಂಟ್‌ ಆಥಾರಿಟಿ,, ಶ್ರೀ, ಟಿ ಸಾಯಿರಾಂ ಪ್ರಸಾದ, ಚುನಾಯಿತ ಅ‍ಧ್ಯಕ್ಷ, ಶ್ರೀ ಬಿ ಪಿ ಶಶಿಧರ್‌, ಚುನಾಯಿತ ಹಿರಿಯ ಉಪಾಧ್ಯಕ್ಷ, ಕೌಶಲ್ಯಾಭಿವೃದ್ಧಿ ಸಮಿತಿ ಛೇರ್ಮನ್ ಶ್ರೀಮತಿ ತೇಜಶ್ರೀ, ಮಾಜಿ ಅಧ್ಯಕ್ಷರು ಹಾಗೂ ಕೌಶಲ್ಯಾಭಿವೃದ್ಧಿ ಸಮಿತಿ ಸಲಹೆಗಾರರಾದ ಡಾ ಜೆ ಕ್ರಾಸ್ಟಾ ಇತರ ಗಣ್ಯರು ಭಾಗವಹಿಸಿದ್ದರು.

South India’s diverse cultural heritage, festivals, weddings and various celebrations drive demand for gifting throughout the year. In addition, the region’s strong corporate ecosystem, comprising IT and technology companies, pharmaceutical firms, educational institutions, hospitality chains, manufacturing and export businesses, is driving demand for personalised, premium and corporate gifting solutions.

Against this backdrop, Gifts World Expo Bengaluru is bringing together wholesalers, retailers, corporate procurement professionals, e-commerce organisations, importers, distributors and gifting solution providers on a single platform. This will enable them to discover new products, build business connections and identify new sourcing opportunities.

Inauguration in the presence of prominent dignitaries

The exhibition’s inauguration ceremony was attended by distinguished guests and industry leaders:

Guest of Honour: Mr Raja Chandra G
Mr Anmol Goyal, Director, Powerplus
Mr Mahavir Mutha, Director, Mutha Impex
Mr Praveen Bafna, Managing Director, Saino Pens
Ms Raj Agarwal, Director – South Chapter, Corporate Gifts Association of India (CGAI)
Mr Deepesh Shah, Director, Darpan Enterprises
Mr Kunal Shah, Director, Fuzo
Mr Ashok Kumar, Secretary, The Tamil Nadu Pen Manufacturers and Dealers Association
Mr Ashok Poddar, Director, Adgifts India Pvt Ltd
Ms Himani Gulati, Director, MEX Exhibitions Pvt Ltd
Mr Gaurav Juneja, Director, MEX Exhibitions Pvt Ltd
Mr Winston Pereira, Executive Director, Messe Frankfurt India Pvt Ltd

Speaking on the occasion, Ms Himani Gulati, Director, MEX Exhibitions Pvt Ltd, said:
“This edition of Gifts World Expo Bengaluru is receiving a strong response from exhibitors and visitors. A diverse range of products is being introduced to quality buyers. The increasing participation every year reflects the relevance of the South Indian gifting market and the opportunities it offers. Our key objective is to create a platform that facilitates meaningful interactions, networking and business growth across the gifting sector.”

Speaking on the opening day, Mr Raj Manek, Executive Director and Board Member, Messe Frankfurt Asia Holdings Ltd, said:
“Gifts World Expo Bengaluru is an important platform for the gifting industry in South India. It brings together businesses, brands and buyers from various states across South India on a single platform. Bengaluru’s strong business ecosystem and excellent connectivity with key markets in the region have made it an ideal hub for building networks and exploring new sourcing opportunities. With a diverse range of products and participants, the exhibition is not only creating meaningful business interactions but also further strengthening connections within the South Indian gifting market.”

Bengaluru, a major commercial gateway to South India, provides exhibitors with an opportunity to reach the region’s extensive buyer base. The exhibition is showcasing gifting solutions across several categories, including apparel and accessories, homeware and kitchen appliances, handicrafts, home décor and home textiles, luxury and premium gifts, promotional products, wellness, beauty and grooming.

Key participating brands include Add Pens, Caslay, Havenuts, KGOC, ESC Plan, Jack & Jones, Power Plus, Swiss Military, Wonderchef, Xech and several others, introducing a diverse range of gifting products for buyers and industry professionals.

Startup and Innovation Hub a key attraction

One of the key attractions of this edition is the Startup & Innovation Hub. Dedicated to new brands and startups entering the gifting sector, this platform provides an opportunity to showcase new products and concepts, connect with buyers and explore business opportunities. Visitors will also have the opportunity to discover new and emerging brands.

For the first time this year, the Stationery Pavilion has been introduced, expanding sourcing opportunities for stationery and office supplies, including writing instruments, paper products, school supplies, office essentials and corporate stationery gifts. Through the Gift Talks programme, visitors will be informed about key industry trends and developments.

With the support of leading industry organisations including Pen & Stationery Association of India, Tamilnadu Pen Manufacturers and Dealers Association, National Jute Board (NJB), Corporate Gifts Association of India (CGAI) and Handloom Handicraft Exporters Welfare Association (HHEWA), Gifts World Expo Bengaluru is further strengthening its role as a key platform for sourcing, networking and business development in South India’s gifting industry. It is connecting the evolving gifting needs of South India with new brands, products and business opportunities across the industry.

The main temple houses what is believed to be the world’s largest Śrī Bagalamukhi Devi vigraha, (7 Feet 3 Inches Tall and 1.2 Tons) making this consecration a significant occasion for devotees and sādhakas of the Mahavidya tradition.

The sacred Kumbhabhiṣekam rituals will be performed by Sri Markandan, Mahant of the Vekkali Amman Mandir, Trichy, together with Acarya Sri Ramakrishna Ganapadigal of Kumbakonam.

Sri Bagalamukhi is one of the Dasa Mahavidyas – the Ten Great Wisdom Goddesses of the Sakta tradition. She embodies the Divine Sakti of stambhana – the power to still, restrain and bring under control disturbing forces. Her worship is traditionally associated with protection, overcoming adversity and negative influences, and developing clarity, courage and inner strength.

From the deeper Mahavidya perspective, her power is also directed inward — towards stilling uncontrolled speech, anger, fear and the restless mind.

The Maha Kumbhabhiṣekam marks the culmination of the sacred consecration process through Prana-pratisitha, mantra, homa, abhiseka and Astabandhana rites. In the Mahavidya tradition, this is not merely the inauguration of a temple, but the establishment of a sacred space for Devi darsana, worship, sādhana and spiritual transformation.

By the blessings of Sri Satgurudev, our Guru Paramparā and Sri Bagalamukhi Devi,we are privileged to establish this sacred temple.