Saturday, September 1, 2018

August 30, 2018, MUMBAI: The United States Agency for International Development (USAID), the Government of India, and the Government of Afghanistan announced the second annual “Passage to Prosperity: India-Afghanistan International Trade and Investment Show” today. The event will take place at the JW Marriott Mumbai Sahar Hotel from September 12-15, 2018. 

More than 600 representatives from Afghanistan, India and international businesses are expected to attend the trade show. During the event, Afghanistan’s finest textiles, carpets, gems, and jewelry will be on display for international buyers. The last day of the show, September 15, 2018, is open to the general public. On this day, Afghan vendors will sell their sample products directly to consumers.

In addition to product sales, the event provides an opportunity for businesses to develop partnerships, identify investment opportunities, and engage in business-to-business matchmaking in a range of sectors. There will be opportunities in sectors including agriculture, energy, healthcare, higher education, mining, and heavy industry, and others. In addition to helping connect businesses, Indian attendees will share information with Afghan stakeholders about innovative business models, including how to cultivate enterprises focused on women’s entrepreneurship. During the three-day event, attendees will also be able to attend panel discussions on a range of topics, including a panel on Doing Business in Afghanistan. These panels represent an occasion for Indian and international businesses already working in Afghanistan to share their knowledge with others.

During the first Passage to Prosperity event, in New Delhi in 2017, Indian buyers and Afghan vendors signed over $27 million in contracts for raw and processed agricultural products. In addition, a number of Indian buyers and Afghan vendors signed Memorandums of Understanding valued at nearly $214 million during the four-day event, and more than $10 million worth of carpets, gemstones, jewelry, marble, and food-related products were sold. This year’s event in Mumbai promises to build on the first show’s successes and expand its impact by reaching beyond India.

At the press launch for the Second Annual Passage to Prosperity event, U.S. Consul General Edgard Kagan remarked, “Kabul and New Delhi share trade ties that span generations. However, Mumbai is less familiar to Afghan businesses and vice versa. By bringing Passage to Prosperity to Mumbai this year, we hope to link Kabul to Mumbai and the rest of the world.”

Dr. Shaida Mohammad Abdali, the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan’s Ambassador to India, remarked, “With USAID support, Afghanistan has been able to re-establish trade and export systems. Air cargo for Afghan exports is a speedy and cost-effective method in comparison to the road transport. By 2020, bilateral trade is expected to reach more than $2 billion between India and Afghanistan. Passage to Prosperity will help develop economic ties between Afghanistan and international markets, and further advance trade integration.”

Ms. Ramona El Hamzaoui, USAID/India Deputy Director, explained, “By creating meaningful partnerships, economic ties will be strengthened and employment opportunities will increase.  The deals and connections that result from this trade show will have long-term impacts on both Afghanistan and India. USAID is proud to be able to play a small role in connecting the right people to make this a reality.”

Several business chambers based in Afghanistan and India helped organize the event, including the Afghan Exporters Club, the Afghanistan Chamber of Commerce and Industries, the IMC Chamber of Commerce and Industry, the Confederation of Indian Industry, and the American Chamber of Commerce in India.

For more information about the Passage to Prosperity: India-Afghanistan Trade and Investment Show and to register, please visit https://www.passage2prosperity.com.

About Passage to Prosperity
Passage to Prosperity is an international India-Afghanistan trade and investment event sponsored by the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), in cooperation with the Government of India and the Government of Afghanistan. This second annual event serves as a platform for Afghanistan to showcase its successful products, services, and businesses to international businesses and buyers. This event offers an exclusive opportunity for international businesses to connect with Afghanistan’s private sector and lays the foundation to promote stronger economies, generate employment opportunities, and build deeper economic bonds between participating countries.

About USAID
USAID is the world's premier international development agency and a catalytic actor driving development results. USAID's work advances U.S. national security and economic prosperity, demonstrates American generosity, and promotes a path to recipient self-reliance and resilience.




Zeenat accuses Zara for Nilofer's murder in front of media in Creative Eye serial Ishq Subhan Allah on ZEE TV.

Zeenat accuses Zara for Nilofer's Murder in front of the Media. However, no one knows the fact that its a conspiracy planned and executed by someone and Zara is being trapped in the case.The best part is that Kabeer, this time, is supporting Zara as he has faith in her that she will never ever commit such a heinous crime. And that she will never lie to him. But Shahbaaz is very disappointed with Kabeer as he wants Kabeer to divorce Zara as being with her at this point will spoil his career forever. However, it looks like Kabeer has already made up his mind and he is going to help Zara get out of this problem. Kabeer has threw a Feast on Bakra Eid and Everyone including Imam Hashim, Khalid and other guests have gathered. Imam points out indirectly to zara saying murderers are never spared. Kabeer doesn't like this and he asks Imam to leave immediately. Shahbaaz is very unhappy with Kabeer. 
Zee tv "Ishq Subhan Allah", telecast at 10 pm - Monday to Friday is produced by Dheeraj Kumar, Zuby Kochar, Sunil Gupta of  Creative Eye Ltd. 
































SOTC Travel introduces “Holiday Essentials” a retail portfolio for hassle free travel
Choosing the right travel gear for your trip can feel overwhelming. With the Indian traveller becoming open to newer experiences, SOTC has witnessed a rapid change in how a tourist now wants to experience his vacations.

To make these experiences easy to enjoy for the customer, SOTC has launched “Holiday Essentials” keeping in mind the type of vacation and destination requirement. The ‘Holiday Essentials’ range is an integral part of SOTC’s services and have been designed to make every vacation worry free by understanding the customer’s minute necessities.
SOTC Travel has witnessed the change in travel experiences over the years and has observed a growth in queries for the inclusion of various kinds of experiences which is about 30% to 35% as compared to the last year. Being a new age travel curator, SOTC strives to make holidays a priority for every Indian. To accommodate these new requirements of the present day traveller, SOTC has included a strong line up of their own Holiday Essentials range of travel merchandise along with a few other Indian and international brands on their website https://www.sotcholidayessentials.com/.

This merchandise website currently provides around 70 unique products across categories. Bringing together a range of accessories to help relieve discomfort and boredom are a fantastic way to beat the travelling blues! SOTC ‘Holiday Essentials’ line offers a wide array of products, from neck pillows to hand warmers, adaptors to backpacks. There are plenty of nifty gadgets too; such as compact portable luggage weighing scales, padlocks and waterproof pouches. It includes SOTC’s private label under the brand name of “Holiday Essentials” and mix of international brands like Osprey, Nrit, Trekmates and award winning Indian brands like Tag8. Customers can also place orders at their nearest SOTC store.
Holiday Essentials enables customers to have all of their travel merchandise needs under one roof along with a wide range of options to choose from. The prime objective is to provide complete solution and 360 degree approach to travelling, which makes vacationers feel safe, trendy and comfortable.

Speaking about the website’s offerings, Daniel D’souza- Head of Sales, India & NRI Markets & E-Commerce SOTC Travel said In our constant endeavor to enhance customer delight, SOTC Travel has introduced ‘Holiday Essentials’ a one-stop solution for all travel retail needs. Travel retail is an extremely dynamic channel that represents a huge untapped opportunity in the marketplace. We have observed huge potential to penetrate in this intrepid market by creating something new and exciting for travellers and that primarily includes making it easy for our customers to find a one-stop solution for all their travel needs. Whether travelling on business or for leisure, passengers will find their choice of travel accessories at SOTC Holiday Essentials.
This feature will open doors to something bigger and create a system of ease and comfort while a customer finds that we offer multi-category credentials to the industry with the promise of efficient functionality. While travelling, practicality leads the way. With this wide array of travel and lifestyle solutions, we aim to be a trustworthy companion on everyday’s adventures. Wherever the destination is, we aim that ‘Holiday Essentials’ will be an indispensable part of our discerning customer’s journey.”

About SOTC Travel Limited
SOTC Travel Limited (Formerly known as SOTC Travel Pvt. Ltd.) is a step-down subsidiary of Fairfax Financial Holdings Group; held through its Indian listed subsidiary, Thomas Cook (India) Limited (TCIL). SOTC India is a leading travel and tourism company active across various travel segments including Leisure Travel, Incentive Travel and Business Travel.
SOTC was established in 1949. Since then, it has escorted lakhs of travelers across the globe for more than 68 years to various destinations around the world. It is one of the leaders in segments, namely Escorted Group Tours, Customized Holidays, Holidays of India and Incentive Travel amongst others. A new age innovative holiday maker, SOTC strives to make holidays a priority for every Indian. ‘We are for holidays’ and we want Indians to prioritize their holidays.
Tujhse Hai Raabta

Of Bonds Thicker Than Blood
Zee TV puts the spotlight on undefined relationships that are special to us!
Premiering on 3rd September 2018, the show will air every Monday to Friday at 8:30 PM

Mumbai, 28th August 2018: Blood relations are considered the strongest in our society but are they the only human ties we value? There are some unexplained connections that barely find a definition, are not bound by law or blood but are special and unique, simply because you deeply value them.  Zee TV is set to launch a new fiction show, Tujhse Hai Raabta and bring its viewers an endearing story of a unique, bittersweet mother-daughter like relationship that begins to develop between two women, Anupriya and Kalyani who are not related by blood, practically strangers to each other, but tied together by an unconventional bond.
Set against a Maharashtrian backdrop, Tujhse Hai Raabta interestingly depicts the irony of life when every relationship isn’t truly what meets the eye. Kalyani was the apple of her parents’ eyes and had the picture- perfect family life. Until a massive setback turns her world upside down. Her mother dies in an accident for which her father is put behind bars. And Anupriya, who Kalyani wasn’t ever introduced to and strongly suspects to be her father’s mistress, is suddenly made her sole guardian. Needless to say, Kalyani is vehemently reluctant to move into Anupriya’s house. But is Kalyani’s new guardian actually her father’s mistress? Follow Kalyani’s journey of avenging the loss of her family and her volatile interactions with the one woman who she holds singularly responsible for their peril. Will Kalyani make life miserable for Anupriya and get her to rue the day she entered into a dalliance with her father? Or is she about to stumble upon a reality that changes her entire perception of her own family?  Tujhse Hai Raabta is produced by Full House Media and will go on-air starting 3rd September every Monday to Friday at 8.30 PM on Zee TV!

Zee TV Business Head Aparna Bhosle said, “There are a few relationships in our life that are unexplained and yet for reasons that we can’t put a finger on, we cherish them the most. Our next fiction offering Tujhse Hai Raabta will celebrate one such undefined, unconventional connection that goes beyond blood ties. It starts off on the wrong foot; From being complete strangers to being forced into each other’s lives overnight in a significant mother-daughter like equation, the show captures the ‘raabta’ that will gradually unfold between Kalyani and Anupriya - two strong, fiercely independent women. The show has intense drama and all the elements that are bound to hook audiences at the 8.30pm slot, further strengthening our fiction line-up. With the introduction of Tujhse Hai Raabta and Guddan Tujhse Na Ho Payega, we only intend to bolster our overall position.”

Producers Sonali and Amit Jaffar of Full House Media said, “Tujhse Hai Raabta explores a never-seen-before facet of a mother-daughter relationship that is anything but one; when two absolute strangers, who would ideally not want to see each other’s faces, are forced in to each other’s lives in an unpalatable manner because of a twist of destiny. From the initial revolt at both ends to realizing that all is not what it seems at first, the show will capture both these women coping with this change while trying to deal with their feelings towards each other. Each character is strongly author-backed and justified in their own actions for viewers to truly enjoy the tension between them. We have a stellar cast on board, each playing their part convincingly. We are happy to associate with Zee TV once again and looking forward to a great working partnership through this new fiction offering.”

Actor Poorva Gokhale said, “I am glad to be a part of a show like Tujhse Hai Raabta that highlights an unusual relationship between two strangers. Some relationships are carved out by destiny and we do not have any control over them while others come naturally to us. My character, Anupriya Deshmukh, goes through an emotional turmoil that changes her life forever. She is a very simple and gentle woman and her caring nature is her biggest strength. I strongly relate to Anupriya’s qualities and hope the viewers resonate with her too. The show is set against a Maharashtrian backdrop and culture which is very exciting for me as I am a Maharashtrian myself and have worked extensively in Marathi theatre and television. Moreover, I am returning to Hindi television after a brief hiatus and I am very elated about this new endeavour”

The show also includes a powerful ensemble cast including actors like Sehban Azim, Amrapali Gupta, Savita Prabhune, Shagun Pande, Pankaj Vishnu and others in pivotal roles.

To witness Kalyani and Anupriya’s unique ‘Raabta Bandhan’, tune in to Tujhse Hai Raabta starting 3rd September 2018 every Monday to Friday at 8:30 PM only on Zee TV!










Zee TV Presents, Guddan…Tumse Na Ho Paega
Make way for India’s youngest Saas
Zee TV is set to break myths surrounding capability and self-doubt through Guddan’s heartwarming story

Premiering on 3rd September, the show will air every Monday to Friday at 8 PM
Mumbai, 29th August: In life, we often encounter unsupportive people who put a wet blanket on our aspirations and make us question ourselves and our ability to do anything. ‘Tumse Na Ho Paega’ is their typical quip to hold us off from racing towards our dreams and achieving the impossible. Encouraging viewers to brush aside these naysayers and cultivate a “Yes I can do that!” attitude is Zee TV’s next fiction offering, Guddan…Tumse Na Ho Paega. Produced by Shoonya Square, the show tells the light-hearted story of a 20-year old girl, Guddan, who having bumbled and fumbled through most of her life and being told by her own family that she can barely get one thing right, finds herself becoming India’s youngest mother-in-law to three older daughters-in-law by a quirk of circumstances. For the first time on television, we will witness a role reversal to the typical saas-bahu relationship as three daughters-in-law set out in search of a suitable bride for their 40-year old father-in-law Akshat and each, for their own vested interests, get him married to 20-year old Guddan. Being a new saas in a household where the older bahus have ruled the roost for the longest time, Guddan is the quintessential inexperienced outsider faced with resistance, challenges and is time and again stripped powerless by the phrase- Tumse Na Ho Paega. Will Guddan tide over self-doubt and brave all the daily challenges thrown her way to shut down her critics and cynics once and for all by proving Guddan Se Ho Paega? The show is, will premiere on 3rd September and will air Monday to Friday at 8pm on Zee TV.

Zee TV Business Head Aparna Bhosle said, “Zee TV has been at the forefront of presenting stories that not only resonate with the great Indian middle class but also motivate them to believe in themselves, act on their strengths proactively in order to reach out to an extraordinary future. In keeping with our philosophy Aaj Likhenge Kal, our next show Guddan Tumse Na Ho Paega aims at addressing the myths surrounding self-doubt and capability. It prods viewers to not be bogged down by others’ estimations of what you can or cannot do, cast aside your insecurities, believe in your abilities and you might just surprise yourself by achieving more than what you ever imagined. It also carries the beautiful subtext that you needn’t be perfect in order to lead a perfect life. With its quirky narrative, this ‘dramedy’ will have audiences rooting for Guddan at the 8.30pm slot, further strengthening our fiction line-up. With the introduction of Guddan Tujhse Na Ho Payega and Tujhse Hai Raabta on the same day, we only intend to bolster our overall position.”

Producer Ved Raj from Shoonya Square said, “There are many in life who are quick to point out our weaknesses and curb our confidence by saying Tumse Na Ho Paega’. Guddan’s feel-good story will make you realize that you needn’t be all perfect in order to make things work … it’s okay to have your flaws, who doesn’t? And more importantly, you can move mountains if only you learn to ignore these kill-joys who try and dissuade you from achieving what you set your mind to. The story will follow the journey of a girl who has been doubted her entire life but hasn’t lost her optimism. Through her innocent, earnest attempts, she displays a never-say-die spirit that is truly endearing. The story is entertaining and motivating all at once. We are proud to partner with Zee TV, India’s leading broadcaster in bringing the show to our viewers. We have a stellar cast on board and hope to put a big smile on everyone’s faces with the show!”

Guddan…Tumse Na Ho Paega will feature actors Nishant Singh Malkani as Akshat, the immensely mature perfectionist sasur of three bahus and Kanika Mann as the flamboyant, carefree and ever-ready to take risks Guddan. As Guddan and Akshat’s contrasting worlds collide, it leads to a lot of drama, some lighter moments and the eternal quest for Guddan to prove that she can take on any challenge and nail it, no matter what her detractors say.  

Talking about her character, Kanika Mann said, “Guddan and I have a lot in common. I can closely relate to the various situations she faces on a daily basis. Be it school, college, workplace or any other social encounters, we meet people who are constantly finding ways to tear us down. But we must not let them affect us or lose our strength due to their judgements. Guddan’s determination to achieve the extraordinary is what makes her so unique and charming.  This is my first show as a lead and I could not have asked for anything better than a show like Guddan to kick-start my career with. I hope the audience love me in this new role and shower me with their blessings.”

Talking about his character, Nishant Singh Malkani said, “Akshat is a perfectionist and a responsible family man. As a head of the family, he makes sure that all the needs and wishes of his sons and daughters-in-law are met. But in doing so, he forgets to live his own life until his daughters-in-law get him remarried to Guddan and his life takes an interesting turn thereon. I decided to take up this role because it allows me to explore so many facets of my personality and pushes my limits as an actor. The show’s concept is very novel and will make you laugh on one hand while you will feel compelled to pause and reflect at the same time.  I’m really looking forward to this new journey and hope the audiences support me in this endeavour.”

Guddan Tumse Na Ho Paega will also see actors like Shweta Mahadik, Daljeet Soundh, Sehrish Ali, Mayank Verma, Rehan Roy and others in pivotal roles.

Guddan Tumse Na Ho Paega will premiere on 3rd September and air Monday to Friday at 8pm on Zee TV

About Zee TV
Zee TV, the flagship channel of Zee Entertainment Enterprises Ltd was launched in October 1992. With a reach of more than 173 countries and access to 1+ Billion viewers globally, Zee TV has created strong brand equity and is the largest media franchise serving the South Asian Diaspora. Realizing its strength in programming and the need for Indian entertainment in the overseas market, it launched Zee TV in the UK / Europe (1995), the USA (1998), Africa (1998) and is available across five continents. Nearly two decades since its launch, Zee TV has driven the growth of the satellite and cable industry in India. The popularity of Zee arises from its understanding of Indian culture and beliefs that are reflected in its programming. Zee TV’s content library delivers a variety of choices for the great Indian middle class ranging from non-fiction formats that celebrate the talent of India’s common man to fiction shows that deliver strong messages and drive positive change in society while entertaining viewers. Zee TV’s content resonates with its core ethos - ‘Aaj Likhenge Kal’ that aims to inspire viewers to take charge of their destinies giving wings to their dreams and aspirations.


Since its inception, Zee TV is a pioneer in the Indian television space – be it introducing singing talent based reality television with Sa Re Ga Ma in 1995, revolutionizing the way dance was perceived in the country with Dance India Dance in 2009 or encouraging children’s creativity, spontaneity and acting skills through India’s Best Dramebaaz in 2013. Zee TV introduced a wave of popular game shows like Just Ek Minute, Saanp Seedi, Antakshari and clutter-breaking fiction concepts that were way ahead of their time such as Tara, Banegi Apni Baat, Chattan, Hasratein, Rishtey, Sailaab, Zee Horror show, Amaanat, Ashirwaad, Basera, Koshish Ek Asha, Ghar ki Lakshmi Betiyann and Mehendi Tere Naam Ki. All these programmes proved to be major primetime successes and set benchmarks for television. As a socially responsible broadcaster, Zee TV has touched upon a number of diverse social issues through path-breaking shows like Agle Janam Mohe Bitiya Hi Kijo, Aapki Antara, Saat Phere, Punarvivaah, Afsar Bitya, Phir Subah Hogi and Doli Armaanon Ki. Some of the channel’s biggest primetime successes in recent times include Jhansi Ki Rani, Pavitra Rishta, Qubool Hai, Kumkum Bhagya, Kundali Bhagya, Jamai Raja, Brahmarakshas, Piyaa Albela, Zindagi Ki Mehek, and Woh …Apna Sa.












Do ideal sons also make for ideal husbands, questions &TV’s new fiction show ‘Perfect Pati’
Starring Jaya PradaSayali Sanjeev and Ayush Anand, the show will premiere on September 3rd, every Monday - Friday at 9:30 pm only on &TV ~ 

Mumbai, August 22nd, 2018: Can an ideal son also be an ideal husband? What happens when a newly married woman realises her husband is not the man she expected him to be? Answering these questions will be &TV’s brand-new fiction offering, Perfect Pati which premieres September 3rd everyMonday to Friday at 9:30 pm. Produced by Filmfarm India Pvt Ltd., Perfect Pati marks the television debut of veteran actress Jaya Prada who will be seen essaying the character of Rajyashree Rathod, a dynamic and modern mother-in-law. Television actor Ayush Anand essays the role of her son, the stylish and cunning Pushkar Rathod while Sayali Sanjeev will play the small-town girl Vidhita Rajawat.

Set against the backdrop of Rajasthan, Perfect Pati will take viewers through the life of Vidhita, who like many young girls dreams of an idealistic image of her prospective partner. Her approach towards life and situations is in complete contrast to that of Pushkar’s, a rich, attractive and aggressively over-protective man. As the story progresses, Vidhita is in for a rollercoaster ride when her marriage with Pushkar leads to a ‘not so perfect’ married life causing her to deal with various unexpected ups and downs. The narrative touches upon how Rajyashree successfully manages the roles of both being a mother and mother-in-law. Narrating the non–idealistic married life of Vidhita and Pushkar, the show attempts to question the thought that whether an ideal son is capable of being an ideal husband.  


Talking about the show Rupali Guha, Producer, Filmfarm India Pvt Ltd said, “The concept of Perfect Pati is quite fresh and contemporary with an extremely relatable narrative. The show highlights the emphasis that is put into finding the perfect bahu with set parameters of how an ideal daughter-in-law should be for the son of the house. But very little or no attention is given to whether that son deserves a perfect wife. The show aims to create a change in the way society looks at the entire process of marriage in India, I hope this show is accepted by the audience and furthermore broadens our perspectives.”
Speaking about her first stint on the small screen, the legendary Jaya Prada said, “The character of Rajyashree Rathod will redefine the way a mother-in-law is usually portrayed on Indian television. She is a confident and dynamic woman who will be seen juggling various responsibilities, be it her family business, social work or running a household. She shows her mettle when faced with the difficult decision of choosing between right and wrong. I’m glad that &TV offered me such a progressive character in Perfect Pati with which I begin a new chapter in my professional life.

Talking about essaying the character of Vidhita, actress Sayali Sanjeev said, “Vidhita, a charming and optimistic 20-year old is an educated, young and independent woman. She is deeply rooted in tradition, yet modern in her thoughts and approach towards life. As I set out on this new journey with Perfect Pati, I’m both nervous and excited to play Vidhita.”

Ayush Anand, who will be seen playing a dark and intense character said, “My character Pushkar has a menacing attitude and a rather daunting way of protecting his family. While he seems lovable and protective, his is a complicated personality, unpredictable in nature and has many shades of grey to him. Viewers though will be intrigued by his character and keen to know his next step as the story unfolds.”
Bringing forth a new outlook to a woman’s decision of choosing her life companion, &TV’s Perfect Patiwill answer the much-ignored question of whether an ideal son can also be an ideal husband. Tune into Vidhita’s journey of finding her Perfect Pati from September 3rd, every Monday to Friday at 9:30 PM only on &TV!

About &TV:
&TV is the flagship Hindi GEC amongst the ‘&’ bouquet of channels from Zee Entertainment Enterprises Limited (ZEEL), a global media and entertainment company. Staying true to the personification of the Ampersand, &TV signifies a conjunction of aspirations and rootedness which is synonymous with the spirit of New Age India. Through its content offering, the channel brings together people and ideologies thus fostering cohesive viewing within Indian households. &TV showcases a diverse and dynamic mix of relatable fiction, high voltage non-fiction, marquee events and blockbuster movies. The channel is available in SD and HD across all Cable and DTH platforms and enjoys a leading presence in international markets including Asia Pacific, Europe, the Middle East and Americas. The channel, viewed by premium audience is fast gaining popularity across territories.












‘Yaar Naraz Na Ho' - A Melody of Friendship and Connection crafted by Ramji Gulati which marks the debut of Manish Jain

  ‘Yaar Naraz Na Ho' - A Melody of Friendship and Connection crafted by Ramji Gulati which marks the debut of Manish Jain aka JJ Communi...