Latest news with #Goa-based
Time of India
3 days ago
- Entertainment
- Time of India
Tattoo designs get a personalised AI makeover
AI is the new tattoo idea generator for many who are finding it difficult to like the designs that are already available with the artists When Misbah Quadri wanted to visualise his thoughts about a meaningful tattoo design, the media professional turned to AI. "AI helped bridge the gap between concept and reality. I experimented with prompts, tweaking keywords until AI generated a design that resonated. The result was surprisingly close to what I had imagined. It even added subtle details I hadn't considered,' says Misbah. Lately, AI tools have been offering unique designs to people looking for something new in their tattoo designs. Picture coutersy: Misbah Quadri Vague ideas to workable designs You may have the perfect idea for a design, but there are some limitations even for tattoo artists when it comes to creating what you want. That is where AI comes into play. 'We often use AI apps to visualise the concepts that clients have in mind. This has become an extension of our artistic toolbox that helps explore new possibilities while retaining originality,' says Mukesh Tupkar, a Goa-based tattoo artist who uses AI tools to create base designs. Vague ideas and limited visual cues aren't a problem for AI tools. Sunny Bhanushali, a Mumbai-based tattoo artist and founder of Aliens Tattoo studios, says, 'It helps with instant visualisation along with a unique result. That said, at the end of the day, we believe that an artist's touch gives the tattoo a personal, creative and meaningful essence.' Picture courtesy: Toshiro Agarwal AI as an ideator? Not every tattoo artist is comfortable or even accepting of AI generated ideas. Some call it an insult to their craft, and some have even compared it to doing sports on steroids. But when an artist is open to exploring these possibilities, they see it as a visual representation of the client's emotions and story. For Rahul Chhabra, a Delhi-based communications manager who used an AI to design a tattoo, the design's accuracy was nearly perfect to what he had in mind. Recalling the tattoo artists' reaction to an AI generated design, he says, 'They were very open and curious. The design was neat, detailed, and easy to follow. They built a whole portfolio using my tattoo design for future clients. So, in a way, something I created with AI to be deeply personal is now also a source of inspiration for others.' AI definitely helped make my tattoo design feel more personal and refined. It gave structure to my thoughts and brought a clean, visual form to my emotions. -Rahul Chhabra, a Delhi-based communications manager We edit and refine the AI references to suit the client's preferences. AI has been helpful, but we prefer handling the creative process ourselves to ensure quality and uniqueness. -Mukesh Tupkar, a Goa-based tattoo artist Picture courtesy: Mukesh Tupkar Commonly used AI tools: Midjourney InkAI Canva Stable Diffusion DALL·E
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Business Standard
5 days ago
- Business
- Business Standard
Monsoon deals spark travel boom as tourists head back to Indian hotspots
Tourism sees strong revival as airlines, hotels and travel platforms roll out monsoon deals to tap into pent-up demand, with bookings rising sharply across key Indian destinations New Delhi After months of global unrest and domestic tensions in popular tourist spots like Kashmir, travel demand that was once held back is now bouncing back. Travel platforms, airlines, and hotels are rushing in with monsoon offers to make the most of this typically quiet travel season, according to a report by The Economic Times. Earlier this year, travel enthusiasts skipped their holiday plans due to safety concerns in destinations like Kashmir and broader geopolitical uncertainties. But now, that pent-up demand is spilling into the monsoon months, giving a much-needed push to off-season travel. 'Flight bookings have surged 25-30 per cent year-on-year for certain destinations,' said travel platform ixigo, as quoted by the report. Airlines, hotels roll out monsoon offers India's largest airline, IndiGo, launched a monsoon sale between June 24 and 29, with special fares on select domestic and international routes, depending on seat availability. The Indian Hotels Company Ltd (IHCL), owned by the Tata Group, also introduced monsoon deals for popular beach destinations like Goa and Kerala. The news report quoted Ranjit Phillipose, Senior Vice-President - Operations, IHC at Goa, said that his hotels in Goa are seeing 85 per cent occupancy through the end of this month, although the average daily rates are slightly lower than last year. Budget airlines join the rainy rush FLY91, a Goa-based budget airline, has also joined the trend. After the state government announced new steps to attract tourists during the off-season, the airline rolled out discounted fares. These cover routes connecting Goa with Hyderabad, Jalgaon, Agatti, Pune, Sindhudurg, and Solapur. Travel industry poised for massive growth A new report from the Boston Consulting Group (BCG) suggests the global leisure travel industry is on track for huge growth. The report estimates that the market will expand from $5 trillion currently to $15 trillion by 2040, Business Standard had reported. Interestingly, the next wave of travellers is expected to come not from the US or Europe, but from emerging markets like India, China, Vietnam, and Saudi Arabia, according to a survey of nearly 5,000 travellers across 11 countries. Andaman aims for more blue flag beaches As monsoon travel gains momentum with airlines and hotels offering special deals, the Andaman and Nicobar Islands are also stepping up efforts to draw travellers — this time by focusing on sustainability. To give a fresh push to beach tourism, the island administration is working to expand Blue Flag certifications beyond the already recognised Radhanagar Beach at Swaraj Dweep (Havelock Island), a senior official told news agency PTI. The Blue Flag tag is an international eco-label awarded to beaches that meet strict standards of cleanliness, safety, environmental management, and accessibility. In India, only 12 beaches currently hold this certification, which is granted by the Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE), a non-profit group based in Denmark.
Time of India
6 days ago
- Time of India
Gujarat police seize fourth container of ‘Goa liquor' worth 1.27cr in Bharuch
Surat: The noose tightened further around an inter-state liquor smuggling racket as Bharuch LCB police intercepted a container near Mandva toll plaza on Wednesday, seizing 56,640 bottles of illicit 'Goa liquor' worth Rs 1.27 crore. This marks the fourth consignment dispatched from a Goa-based distillery that reportedly operates on job work provided by Gujarat-based bootleggers. Acting on a tip-off, the Bharuch LCB team kept watch near Mandva police station, suspecting that a consignment of liquor was en route from Vadodara to Surat. Around 1:30pm, a container with a Karnataka number plate was stopped. Inside were thousands of liquor bottles with no official labels or batch numbers, pointing to unauthorized production. The driver, Jagdish Bishnoi, was arrested, while five others — including Ramesh and Vikas Khichad — were declared wanted. Authorities suspect the involvement of the Rajasthan-based Bishnoi Gang, a known player in the Gujarat liquor black market. "This was the fourth container that left Goa last week," said Bharuch DySP CK Patel. "The first was seized during a raid in Vadodara's Chhani area by SMC officials, worth Rs 2.44 crore. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Cervecería Nacional CFD: Calcula cuánto podrías ganar invirtiendo solo $100 Empieza a invertir Inscríbete ahora Undo Two more were caught by Navsari police, and the fourth — this one — was intercepted before it could be delivered." According to officials, the driver was instructed to lie low for two days due to increased police vigilance following earlier seizures. However, with no word from the intended receiver, he resumed movement — which led to his capture. "The seized liquor was unofficially manufactured in Goa, without batch numbers or documentation," said a Bharuch LCB official. "The entire supply chain — from distillery to delivery — is being run covertly, with orders allegedly routed through Gujarat-based syndicates."
Time of India
20-06-2025
- Automotive
- Time of India
In a 1st, European company to source aircraft parts from Goa firm
Panaji: In the first collaboration between a European aerospace supplier and a Goan company for commercial planes, Austrian aerospace firm FACC AG has signed a seven-year agreement with Goa-based Kineco Aerospace & Defence to source structural parts for passenger aircraft. The agreement was announced on the second day of the 2025 Paris Air Show, on Tuesday. The multi-million deal sets in motion a 10-month phase of technical and operational coordination between FACC and Kineco. If executed, this partnership will integrate Kineco into FACC's global supplier network. FACC's annual revenues hit 884.5 million in 2024, and it counts Airbus, Boeing, Bombardier, and Embraer among its customers. 'Kineco Group has been making strategic, forward-looking investments in state-of-the-art capabilities, global-scale capacity, and world-class manufacturing and governance practices,' said the founder and chairman of the Kineco Group, Shekhar Sardessai. 'We are aligning with the evolving needs of Tier-1 companies and global commercial aircraft original equipment manufacturers.' Air India and IndiGo placed orders for a total of 1,830 aircraft from Airbus and Boeing. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Thị trường có dấu hiệu suy thoái không? IC Markets Đăng ký Undo The parts manufactured at Pilerne are expected to find their way onto some of the aircraft that will be delivered to these two Indian carriers. While India's contribution to global commercial aviation is just around 2%, the country is actively working to increase its share in aerospace manufacturing. 'I take immense pride in this milestone — not just for Kineco, but for India's larger ambition to become a globally competitive aerospace manufacturing hub,' Sardessai said. 'It stands as a strong validation of India's rising stature in the global aerospace value chain.' FACC, which counts among the world's leading suppliers of lightweight aerospace systems and components, used to source these parts from China and Paris. The company indicated that its collaboration with Kineco is driven by a deliberate pivot to 'globally competitive partners' who meet stringent benchmarks in quality, cost, delivery, and innovation. Since the Covid-19 pandemic, there have been growing industry concerns over supply chain vulnerabilities and over-reliance on China. Kineco Aerospace & Defence, a division of Kineco Limited, is part of Goa's modest but steadily growing aerospace and composites manufacturing ecosystem. The firm worked on domestic defence and space programmes, including military contracts from BAE Systems and Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), as well as the Indian Space Research Organisation's satellite programme.
Mint
20-06-2025
- Mint
Next vacation plan? A textile trail to explore historical weaves
Next Story Sujata Assomull Curated craft trails, immersive weaving and dyeing workshops offer travellers a deeper understanding of culture, heritage and slow luxury A weaver at work Gift this article This is the time of year when people look forward to travelling for leisure. While I am always more invested in all things fashion, my focus lately has shifted to more immersive travel. This is the time of year when people look forward to travelling for leisure. While I am always more invested in all things fashion, my focus lately has shifted to more immersive travel. In India, though, you don't have to choose between the two. The country's rich textile heritage allows you to combine your love for fashion with a meaningful travel experience. India makes 95% of handwoven textiles in the world. In other words, our weaving traditions are woven into the fabric of the Indian culture, offering journeys that are as enriching as they are beautiful. In the past, I have visited pashmina ateliers in Srinagar, Ajrakh printing centres in Jaisalmer, chikankari centres in Lucknow and sari weaving clusters in Kanchipuram—but those were usually quick detours during work trips or stolen moments on a holiday. Now, I want to go deeper. And it is easier than you might think. Homegrown boutique travel companies are now offering textile trails as part of their itineraries. One of them is Breakaway, founded by Shilpa Sharma, in 2011. Her textile trails span the country, from Gujarat and Rajasthan to Madhya Pradesh, Telangana, Tamil Nadu and Nagaland. 'Each region offers something distinct—whether it's the vibrancy of Ajrakh and bandhej, or the intricacy of weaving traditions tucked away in village clusters across the country," says Sharma, the co-founder of the crafts-focused brand Jaypore, and of Goa-based restaurant Mustard. Over the past few years, Sharma has observed a steady rise in interest for textile-focused travel. 'I think there's a larger cultural shift. We've seen that travellers are increasingly craving 'meaning', not just monuments. India's textile heritage offers a rich and tangible way to connect with memory, identity and place." Their trips typically last four to 10 days, making them easy to plan as long weekend getaways or shorter immersive escapes that don't require significant time commitments. For some locations, planning is necessary—Kashmir and Ladakh are best visited between May and September, while other regions are ideal in the cooler months between October and March. It's also worth noting that dyeing and printing activities slow down during the monsoon season. So, do keep seasonality in mind when you are planning a textile trail. Textile revivalist and curator Lavina Baldota is no stranger to the idea of textile trails. 'For me, these are generally study trips—to understand, evaluate and document," she says. While Baldota believes the interest in textile/loom tourism is on the rise, she points out that mainstream media, even travel-specific publications, aren't doing enough to give such experiences the coverage they deserve. 'Craft and textile tourism hold a lot of potential. Every year, there are enthusiasts who come to India specifically to explore textiles," she explains. Baldota says if more attention was given to how textile and travel are a natural fit—both for Indian and international visitors—it could become a powerful way to understand India's culture and heritage. The government could organise and promote such trips, and so could the fashion industry, Baldota suggests. A similar belief led former journalist and Kochi-based sociopreneur Ramesh Menon to launch Save the Loom, a movement born after the 2018 Kerala floods, which severely affected the weaving clusters around Kochi. An indigo dyeing workshop organised by One Zero Eight by Save the Loom 'The once-famous weaving town had faded from public memory as a centre of craft heritage," says Menon, the founder of One Zero Eight by Save the Loom, a concept store that collaborates with over 40 designers. 'I wished people had celebrated and preserved their traditional crafts—taking pride in showcasing them to the world. Just after the floods, an elderly couple flew in from Manhattan, New York. The wife, a hobby weaver, had read about our story and offered to volunteer. That moment made us realise we had an avenue to tell better stories," Menon says. From there, Menon began hosting regular programmes around weaving, ranging from three-hour workshops in handloom weaving and natural dyeing to one-day deep dives showcasing the entire process of yarn processing, dyeing, winding, warping, weaving, and visits to home weavers and women-led cooperatives. These evolved into bespoke travel experiences, culminating in seven- to 21-day immersive tours across states. 'Though our primary focus is weaving, we also include other traditional craft experiences, museum visits, and 'look-and-learn' modules," Menon says. 'Even watching a Kathakali make-up session can be part of the itinerary." What stands out to him is the diversity of travellers who sign up. 'There's growing interest from young Indians who want to experience and learn. On the international side, it's often 'silver tourists'—older travellers with a passion for art, design and craftsmanship," he says. 'We've had couples gift each other weaving workshops for anniversaries, friends gifting trips for birthdays, and professionals from completely different fields who simply want to understand the intricacies of Indian weaving," he explains. Menon believes the next step forward is for textile-driven fashion brands and retail stores to begin curating these kinds of journeys for their consumers. 'The fashion and retail industry can play a huge role. The 'Handmade in India' story is our biggest asset. Positioning it within the realm of high-end luxury—through loom tourism and by opening up ateliers and production units—will showcase our craftsmanship and ways of making," he explains. It can also help bring more depth, credibility and capital to India's growing influence in global fashion. 'At a time when the world seeks transparency and sustainability, when brands are being held accountable, and when we want to elevate traditional artisans globally, curating experiences around textile traditions is the most authentic way to claim our space in the luxury conversation," says Menon. Perhaps it is time the fashion industry started thinking of clothing not just as product but as a journey. Pairing craft with travel may well be the most powerful way to keep India's story, and its profound influence on global material culture alive and thriving. Dress Sense is a monthly column on the clothes we wear every day. Sujata Assomull is a journalist, author and mindful fashion advocate. Also read: Why this is the season to stop shopping Topics You May Be Interested In Catch all the Business News, Market News, Breaking News Events and Latest News Updates on Live Mint. Download The Mint News App to get Daily Market Updates.
