Mumbai is glowing with Christmas lights as can be seen in the many by-lanes of Khotachiwadi, Bandra, Borivali, and even as far as Vasai. The brightly lit up stars and Christmas trees adorn houses big and small. While these neighbourhoods boast a strong presence of East Indian, Goan, Mangalorean and even Anglo-Indian communities, other localities in the city see people from parts of India who celebrate the festival in the city. Among the widely known celebrations of these communities, there lies the simmering faith of South India’s Christians -- these not only include those Kerala but also Tamil Nadu, apart from other states. It has been many years now that the former gets its due share of recognition, usually attributed to giving India a version of the mouthwatering plum cake, and specially curated menus by the likes of Kari Apla, Aiyo Patrao, NairOnFire, and even Just Kerala, among others, who shine the light on these culinary and cultural traditions. However, it may not be the same for the Tamil Christians, one of the state’s other neighbouring southern cousins, who also have their own way of celebrating; there are visibly only a handful, l including Tanjore Tiffin Room, who pay tribute to Tamil Christmas traditions. The limited options may sound like their celebrations are subdued, but within pockets like Powai, Vikhroli, Sion and even Mira Road, if not more, mid-day has found that they shine bright like the north star on Christmas Day. Fondest and favourite memories of Christmas It's visible in the preparations leading up to the festival that may not boast of month-long food preparations but tight-knit groups bringing people together through praise, worship, and song. It's these very religious and choral traditions that ring through the streets in more than one language, especially for Joy Manikumar, who shares, “My fondest memories of Christmas are going Carolling (Christmas Carol singing) to every church member's house and singing Tamil and English Christmas songs, it's always fun to be with friends till late at night.” It's a ritual the 22-year-old continues even today, amidst her busy academic schedule. It's no different for John Wesli Chelladurai, who adds that apart from the carol rounds, the traditions also include singing that proclaims the start of the Advent season, and the joy of visiting families and friends here and around native that make it even more special. “Being part of an elaborate Christmas nativity skit during my youth days in church, late-night carol singing to every member of the congregation without getting tired or sleepy and then a few sessions of prayer and thanksgiving in honour of this wonderful occasion are also among my fondest memories,” reminisces the Mira Road resident. Just like every other celebration, Sion-based Jenifer Madhi say the good times have also been in the Christmas Eve ritual. “I have fond memories of the midnight mass, something about getting ready, the fuss and the chaos, pretty much the textbook idea of celebration -- wearing new clothes, sharing food and plum cakes, makes it special.” Even as she loves the ritual, it will be a little less celebratory this year, due to a death in the family, because of which they haven’t gone big with the celebrations, as they are in mourning. Elsewhere in the city, Jerimson Edwin adds, “When I was younger, we would go out with parents. We were all so small, so going out was a big thing. Mummy making different sweets and then sharing it with our neighbours as well.” While his favourite part is telling people about Jesus Christ and Christmas, he says, it extends to a larger community. “We have a small get-together with family and friends, playing games together and sipping on Pepsi and eating cake from Iyengar Bakery too. These are all also my family rituals,” adds the 26-year-old from Powai. Christmas food traditions among Mumbai’s Tamils While these can only be considered as a glimpse of the celebrations, Jerimson says there is more. “The Christmas feast usually includes grilled chicken, tandoori, Mughlai food, and even different types of Handis. There is also mutton, especially the Nalli part, along with some paya soup. Parotta with some salna (a popular South Indian street-style curry eaten in Tamil Nadu) and fried chicken. Biryani is a must. Drinks would be the regular soft drinks,” the Mumbaikar lists out the menu showcasing the love for traditional delicacies in a feast, influenced by the melting pot of cultures that we call Mumbai. On the other hand, Joy says many different lesser-known food items form a part of the Christmas delicacies at her home. “We usually give Christmas snacks and sweets like achu murukku (commonly called achappam in Kerala, and rose cookies elsewhere in India), adirasam and plum cakes to our neighbours, and have biryani for lunch and dinner at home. However, it's Christmas breakfast, which is personally her favourite. “South Indian breakfast it is! We usually have breakfast together in church, so it must be mutton/chicken curry, which are symbolic meats for the celebration, paired with either idlis, dosas or appams.” Among the many highlights for Janifer is one treat. “Our family ritual was relishing plum cakes by sharing them since the beginning of Advent with everyone. Eating way too much ourselves. We never had them any other time of the year,” shares the 24-year-old professor, gleefully. But if you ask her beyond that, the Sion resident adds, “We also enjoy biryani and traditional South Indian breakfast the next day. As a hardcore Tamil breakfast fan, I enjoyed Idiyapam, puttu, Idli and chicken.” Changing times, changing celebrations Even as the trio highlight the food they love, Christmas is more for John because he says the feast usually includes chicken or mutton as per the traditional practice in their home but believes there is more to the celebration than food. “I've noticed that earlier, Christmas was celebrated more in spirit and reverence, with the focus on the message of Christ's birth and sharing this good news with others. However, over the years, it has transformed from a soulful celebration to a theme party with materialistic factors involving Santa, Christmas trees, red and green extravaganzas, which kind of misses the entire point of Christmas.” While food is important, he intends to continue staying true to his family’s tradition, as praise and worship form the centre of his celebrations this year. Jerimson notices a different kind of change. He explains, “Relatives used to come home, have good fellowship, Mom's sisters talking about their native place, Dad's talking about politics, and cousins talking about the latest trends. I used to get very happy during December because of the decorations and festive vibe. However, now we are all grown up, busy with office work, and parents are getting old.” Even Madhi feels the same. She shares, “It's become an annual celebration of social media wishes and stories. My memories have been shared with my cousins, but they are not around because they are all married and must cater to two families now. So now it's only a few people, who are mostly guests.” Even in such times, Joy finds hope. “We don't decorate our house anymore, but the Christmas spirit still feels very present,” she concludes. This story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed, agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, reliability and data of the text. Mid-day management/mid-day.com reserves the sole right to alter, delete or remove (without notice) the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever.
24 December,2025 05:07 PM IST | Mumbai | Nascimento PintoThis Christmas, readers share their most memorable (thoughtful to strangest) Secret Santa gifts. From a handwritten letter to tea-stained mugs, here is what they had to say about the art of anonymous gifting. The annual ritual of Secret Santa is far more than a simple holiday tradition; it's a high-stakes social litmus test. At its best, it is a heartwarming display of attentiveness—proving that a colleague or friend has truly been listening. At its worst, it is a frantic, last-minute dash that results in "questionable" smells and awkward handovers. Whether it’s a moka pot that fuels a morning or a rubber lizard that fuels a nightmare, the consensus is clear: the most memorable gifts are the ones that prove you were seen. The value of a gift rarely lies in its price tag, but rather in the "observational bridge" between the giver and the receiver. From sentimental letters that capture fading moments to "reality check" calendars that call out our worst habits, these stories from four professionals explore the delicate art of gifting—and the hilarity that ensues when it goes south. The curator of rituals "Secret Santa has a funny way of showing how well people really know you,” poses design and art manager Ifra Ali. For someone, whose career is built on aesthetic and intentionality, the "perfect" gift wasn't about the price tag, but the lifestyle it acknowledged. She fondly recalls, “The most thoughtful gift I’ve ever received was gourmet coffee paired with a moka pot, along with a handwritten note. Anyone who knows me knows how serious I am about my coffee and my caffeine. On its own, the gift wasn’t extravagant, but the note mentioned small things I had casually spoken about, like how coffee instantly improves my mood and how I enjoy slow, intentional mornings. That attention to detail made it feel incredibly personal.” However, Ali notes that without that observational bridge, gifting can feel dissonant. “Then there was the not-so-great gift. I once received a wind chime. While it may sound thoughtful in theory, it felt completely random for me. I don’t really enjoy constant background noise, so my immediate reaction was a confused smile and a quick mental calculation of where it would even go. That contrast is what makes Secret Santa interesting. When someone really thinks about you, even a simple gift can feel special. And when they don’t, it becomes a funny story you end up telling later." The seeker of sentiments In the fast-paced world of finance, banker Sneha Sharma finds value in the things that cannot be digitised. She emphasises that in an era of instant gratification, effort is the true currency, "At this stage of life, you understand how quickly conversations fade and messages disappear. That’s what makes a handwritten letter feel so rare. I once received one recalling one specific moment shared between two people, and it carried a quiet, lasting power. It doesn’t try to impress or perform, yet it feels deeply personal. Someone noticed that moment when it happened, remembered it, and chose to hold on to it.” But the banker's eye for detail can be a double-edged sword when a gift lacks sincerity. She describes a jarring experience, “On the other hand, I once received a gift that made me pause: a mug that was very clearly used. It wasn’t broken, but it had faint tea stains along the rim and a slightly faded design from repeated washes. The box looked new, which somehow made it worse, as if effort had gone into disguising its past life. There was no card, no explanation, just an awkward handover. Gifting is about thought and intention; this gift didn't have any, and that absence was impossible to ignore." The practical dreamer For Disha Sharma, a successful gift sits at the intersection of utility and nostalgia. As a PR professional, she understands the power of a good ‘hook,’ and her favourite gift had exactly that—a mix of high-function and high-sentiment. "The most thoughtful gift I ever opened was a travel pouch, a Cinderella-themed stationery set, and a handwritten note. At the time, I was about to travel, so the pouch felt perfectly timed. But what really stood out was the stationery. It wasn’t just about my love for the character; it felt like a gentle reminder that somewhere inside all of us, there’s still a small child who believes in a little magic,” she says. When asked about the strangest gift she received, she shares an instance her Secret Santa failed to deliver terribly, “However, I’ve also been on the receiving end of a 'panic buy.' I once received a black hoodie that practically announced itself as a last-minute roadside purchase. The fabric felt oddly worn, the fit was strange, and there was a very distinct, slightly questionable smell. I smiled, of course, but internally I was trying to guess its backstory. When something is a re-gift or a last-minute buy, it shows. Instantly." The good sport Dhairya Sharma views Secret Santa through the lens of relationship dynamics—sometimes it’s a tribute, and sometimes it’s a prank. "My most unforgettable Secret Santa happened with my cousins,” Sharma reveals. "I opened a box casually, and right on top was a very realistic rubber lizard. I’m extremely scared of lizards, so I panicked instantly—I screamed, dropped the box, and jumped back. My cousins were all recording and laughing; it was a prank because they knew about my fear. It was completely useless as a gift, but it turned into a hilarious, creepy memory,” he notes how an eerie prank can become a lifelong memory. Shifting from family chaos to corporate life, Sharma admits that Secret Santa can also serve as a mirror to our own flaws. "I also once received a gift that was a bit of a reality check. At a workplace exchange, I received a desk calendar with a note that said, 'Let’s actually meet this time.' I have a habit of cancelling plans at the last minute because after work, I often feel like I should just run straight home. The room went quiet, then everyone laughed because it was true. Now that the calendar sits on my desk and reminds me to show up more often." This story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed, agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, reliability and data of the text. Mid-day management/mid-day.com reserves the sole right to alter, delete or remove (without notice) the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever.
24 December,2025 02:44 PM IST | Mumbai | Maitrai AgarwalOn the occasion of Christmas, a massive influx of tourists thronged the world-famous tourist destination of Jaisalmer. Local businesses and shopkeepers in Jaisalmer are celebrating a record-breaking holiday season as tourists flood in for the Christmas break. From the Sonar Fort to the historic havelis, the town is experiencing a surge, with tourists now outnumbering residents on the streets. The world-famous tourist destination Jaisalmer has seen a rise in domestic and international tourists during the Christmas holidays. For the next 8 to 10 days, hotels in Jaisalmer are facing a "no room" situation. The tourism business in Jaisalmer had seen a significant jump. Amid high demand for Jaisalmer, private airlines operating here have significantly increased fares. Similarly, all trains are running housefull. This 12th-century city appears to be short on space relative to the volume of visitors. Currently, the tourism industry in the world-famous destination is at its peak during the Christmas holidays. Sonar Fort experiences a significant increase in visitors ahead of Christmas. A tourist says, "I came here for my birthday celebration. Jaisalmer is a desert city, and we have arrived at the fort today. I really liked it here." While air connectivity has boosted tourist arrivals, private airline fares have increased so substantially that they are becoming unaffordable for the average tourist. At the same time, trains running from New Delhi, Ahmedabad, Jaipur, and Jodhpur are showing long waiting lists. The city is experiencing an influx of visitors. With thousands of tourists arriving, the faces of tourism professionals have lit up with joy. In the mornings, there is hardly any space to step at popular tourist spots. A tourist, Anirudh Madoriya, says, "We are from Bangalore. We have arrived in Jaisalmer today, and the weather is also good. We are really enjoying tourism, which is booming in the city, and tourist arrivals have increased over the last 10 days; the season is now at its peak." Every morning, places like the Sonar Fort, fort parking, and the neighborhoods housing the city's famous havelis are completely packed. The crowd of tourists is so large that there are more visitors visible in Jaisalmer than local residents. Seeing the festive season, locals are enthusiastic, and tourists can be seen at every shop. This story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed, agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, reliability and data of the text. Mid-day management/mid-day.com reserves the sole right to alter, delete or remove (without notice) the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever
24 December,2025 11:17 AM IST | Jaisalmer | AgenciesChristian-majority Mizoram has fully soaked in the yuletide spirit, with Christmas carols and songs echoing in the streets, churches and almost every households, and people both old and young eagerly waiting to celebrate the festival. This time, Mizoram will witness the 155th year of the Christmas celebration. Preparations have begun in all churches, with the buildings and courtyards being decorated. Members of different churches, mostly youths, were seen singing Christmas songs and hymns, spreading the message of peace and joy. All streets in the state capital and other towns have been decked up to mark the festive season. Many NGOs, churches and groups have been gathering charity and reaching out to orphanages, jails, rehabilitation centres and hospitals with generous gifts. In the state capital Aizawl and some district headquarters, music concerts are being organised to collect donations to help the poor and the needy. "Giving presents is one of the true essences of Christmas as it symbolises the love of God," Reverend Lalhmingmawia, a pastor from Mizoram Presbyterian Church, said. People came out in large numbers for pre-Christmas shopping in the markets in the capital as well as district headquarters. The state government has imposed a 'no vehicle zone' in busy places in Aizawl and other district headquarters on December 23, 24 and 31 for the benefit of the public during pre-Christmas and New Year shopping. "Markets and malls are reporting higher footfalls than previous years," Lalhlimpuii, who runs a garment shop in Aizawl's Bara Bazaar, told PTI. The government has also organised a Christmas-related costume parade mass carol on Tuesday to convey the message of love, peace and joy on the occasion of Christ's birth. For Mizos, Christmas is also a time for family reunion as they give due importance to celebrating the event with their families. Many residents, including students, who worked and studied in towns or outside the state, returned to their villages to be reunited with their families. "I am happy to reunite with my family this Christmas for the first time since I have been away from home for more than 10 years," Lalthianghlimi, a 26-year-old youth from Saitual district who works in Goa, said. Historians recorded that the first Christmas was celebrated in Mizoram's soil in 1871, not by Mizos but by the invading colonial British troops near Tuivai River on the present Mizoram-Manipur border and the Mizo warriors attacked the soldiers during the celebrations. In Mizoram, three-day Christmas celebration starts from the evening of December 24, with 'urlawk zan' or pre-night celebration, and ends on December 26. While December 25 is usually sanctified for worship, during which church services, sermons and 'zaikhawm' (congregational singing service) are held to mark the celebration, December 26 is generally marked with traditional community feasts, an integral part of Christmas for the Mizos. While bigger denominations like Presbyterian Church and Baptist Church of Mizoram (BCM) will hold traditional community feasts on December 26, some indigenous churches will organise traditional feasts from December 25. The spirit of Christmas is fervently high in rural areas where the celebration sometimes lasts even a week. This story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed, agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, reliability and data of the text. Mid-day management/mid-day.com reserves the sole right to alter, delete or remove (without notice) the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever
24 December,2025 11:11 AM IST | Aizawl | AgenciesAs Christmas approaches, markets have been decked up with Christmas trees, bells and gifts ahead of the celebrations in Odisha's Bhubaneswar. It showcases the enthusiasm of residents around the holiday, as the shops have put up trees, bells, and stars for sale. The storefronts are decorated with Santa Claus's sleigh, bells, frills, decorative wreaths, glowing stars, Christmas trees, displaying items like Santa Claus costumes, Christmas-themed accessories, Christmas lights and toys ready for the seasonal purchase. The city is buzzing with a great sense of festive spirit and shared merriment as everybody prepares for the holidays ahead. Shops in Guwahati, Assam, are also buzzing with the festive spirit as the markets are decked up with Christmas decorations. Meanwhile, in Shimla, candlelight prayers were organised at the historic Christ Church, located at Ridge Maidan in Shimla, on Saturday evening. The iconic church, considered a major landmark of the hill town, witnessed participation from local residents as well as tourists. Speaking to ANI, Vinita Roy, Pastor In-Charge, Christ Church Shimla, said that Christmas celebrations at the church begin well in advance. "Our Christmas programmes start much earlier. From the season of Advent itself, our preparations begin. This year, Advent started on November 30, and since then, our Christmas programmes have been ongoing. In the first week of December, we went door-to-door for carolling, which is practised across the world. We visit each other's homes, exchange Christmas wishes, offer prayers and greet one another," she said. The pastor also informed that the church will remain open late into the night on December 24 to allow tourists and visitors to come and offer prayers and receive blessings. Christmas falls on December 25 every year, and is celebrated with joy, happiness, and compassion. It marks the birth of Jesus Christ and echoes the message of peace, love, and harmony. On this occasion, families gather to share meals, exchange gifts, sing Christmas carols, and spread warmth in the chilly season. Churches hold special prayers, creating an atmosphere of faith and hope. The festival is celebrated across the world with great enthusiasm and holds special significance for Christians. This story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed, agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, reliability and data of the text. Mid-day management/mid-day.com reserves the sole right to alter, delete or remove (without notice) the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever
24 December,2025 10:50 AM IST | Bhubaneswar | AgenciesEminent Chhattisgarh-based Hindi writer and Jnanpith Award recipient Vinod Kumar Shukla died on Tuesday evening due to age-related ailments at a government hospital here, his family members said. He was 89. Shukla was admitted to the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), Raipur, on December 2 after experiencing breathing difficulties. He breathed his last at 4.48 pm on Tuesday, his son, Shashwat Shukla told PTI. He is survived by his wife, son Shashwat and a daughter. According to the family, his mortal remains will first be taken to his residence here, and details regarding the last rites will be announced shortly. Shashwat Shukla said that after his father experienced breathing problems in October, he was admitted to a private hospital in Raipur. After his condition improved, he was discharged and continued treatment at home. However, his health deteriorated suddenly on December 2, after which he was taken to AIIMS Raipur for further treatment, he added. A celebrated literary figure, Vinod Kumar Shukla was the author of acclaimed novels such as 'Naukar Ki Kameez', 'Khilega To Dekhenge', 'Deewar Mein Ek Khidki Rehti Thi', and 'Ek Chuppi Jagah'. He was widely regarded as one of the most distinctive voices in Hindi literature, known for his unique, simple, and deeply evocative writing style. For his unparalleled contribution to Hindi literature, creative excellence, and distinctive literary expression, Shukla was awarded the 59th Jnanpith Award, India's highest literary honour. The award was presented to him on November 21 this year at a ceremony held at his residence in Raipur. He was the first author from Chhattisgarh to receive the prestigious award. During his visit to Chhattisgarh on November 1, Prime Minister Narendra Modi had spoken to the family members of Shukla, and enquired about his health and well-being. Shukla's novel 'Naukar Ki Kameez' was adapted into a film of the same name by filmmaker Mani Kaul. This story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed, agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, reliability and data of the text. Mid-day management/mid-day.com reserves the sole right to alter, delete or remove (without notice) the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever.
23 December,2025 08:42 PM IST | Raipur | PTIAdding a unique charm to Christmas celebrations, a giant Christmas tree made entirely of organic flowering plants has been set up at Chungathara in Malappuram district of Kerala. The 30-foot-tall tree, with a circumference of around eight feet, has been erected in front of a coconut company at Kuttimunda, drawing widespread public attention. The Christmas tree has been beautifully crafted using around 2,800 organic flowering plants, making it a rare and eco-friendly attraction. Unlike conventional artificial decorations, the tree has been created by planting and nurturing organic saplings, blending festive spirit with a strong message of environmental responsibility. Company owner Pappachan Munduvayal said the massive structure was the result of the collective effort of nearly 15 people. He noted that the idea of creating a green and organic Christmas tree had been a long-cherished dream shared by both the management and employees, which has now turned into reality. The towering tree has become a major attraction for locals, families and passersby, with many stopping to capture photographs and selfies. The initiative has also gained traction on social media for its innovative and sustainable approach to Christmas celebrations. Christmas falls on December 25th every year, and is celebrated with joy, happiness, and compassion. It marks the birth of Jesus Christ and echoes the message of peace, love, and harmony. On this occasion, families gather to share meals, exchange gifts, sing Christmas carols, and spread warmth in the chilly season. Churches hold special prayers, creating an atmosphere of faith and hope. The festival is celebrated across the world with great enthusiasm and holds special significance for Christians. This story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed, agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, reliability and data of the text. Mid-day management/mid-day.com reserves the sole right to alter, delete or remove (without notice) the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever.
23 December,2025 12:20 PM IST | Malappuram (Kerala) | ANIVince Zampella, one of the creators behind such best-selling video games as 'Call of Duty', has died. He was 55. Video game company Electronic Arts said Zampella died on Sunday, December 21. The company did not disclose the cause of death. In 2010, Zampella founded Respawn Entertainment, a subsidiary of EA, and he was also the former chief executive of video game developer Infinity Ward, the studio behind the successful 'Call of Duty' franchise. A spokesperson for Electronic Arts said in a statement on Monday that Zampella's influence on the video game industry was ¿profound and far-reaching." "A friend, colleague, leader and visionary creator, his work helped shape modern interactive entertainment and inspired millions of players and developers around the world. His legacy will continue to shape how games are made and how players connect for generations to come," a company spokesperson wrote. One of Zampella's crowning achievements was the creation of the Call of Duty franchise, which has sold more than half a billion games worldwide. The first-person shooter game debuted in 2003 as a World War II simulation and has sold over 500 million copies globally. Subsequent versions have delved into modern warfare and there is a live-action movie based on the game in production with Paramount Pictures. In recent years, Zampella has been at the helm of the creation of the action-adventure video games Star Wars Jedi: Fallen Order and Star Wars Jedi: Survivor. This story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed, agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, reliability and data of the text. Mid-day management/mid-day.com reserves the sole right to alter, delete or remove (without notice) the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever.
23 December,2025 11:19 AM IST | Washington | APItalian DJs and music producers Matteo and Amedeo Giovannelli, popularly known as Mathame are in Mumbai for Sunburn 2025. It's not like they have been here before. They have. Only this time, they are playing in a different setting. It's not a club but a music festival. With music that is literally an explosion of sounds, the duo carry their roots with them. Even if they roam the world, they remember their home in Sicily, at the base of Mt Etna, one of the most popular active volcanoes in the world. Growing up around these sounds has inspired their music in more than one way, and even if they travel the world, it will always carry a piece of Mount Etna. Ahead of their performance at the iconic music festival, Amedeo dives into their music, the role of Artificial Intelligence in music, but not without the role of visual storytelling in modern music. Here are excerpts from the interview: Firstly, how excited are you to perform in India at Sunburn 2025 and is it your first time here? No, it's not our first time. We have been several times to India, actually like at least four or five times to Mumbai, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Delhi and Goa. We love the crowd because you all like to party, that's what we like, the crowd is warm. We will play a little bit different than a club show; it will be a more energetic set. The cities in India are different - Goa is a small multi-ethnic place, people from different places of the world, but mainly Mumbai, Bengaluru and Hyderabad are very similar. I find it hard to play in Delhi because it has a very strong vibe. How have you seen electronic music evolve since the time you started out? Electronic music follows technology. There's no electronic music without technology. In the last 12 years to 15 years, there has literally been a very fast revolution in technology, and the music follows. I think the AI breakthrough of these last three, four years changed the cards a lot. First of all, the velocity of the quality of the music you can produce is insanely higher because we have AI like a brainstorming tool that helps you to find a good idea and it's very important. So that's why you see every week there are new, huge releases. I mean, 10 years ago was different because you had to wait months for a good release, and even a year or two. Today, it is very fast. The scenario changed and the genre collapsed. I don't think there are any genres anymore. You can do dubstep, you can do dance, you can do everything. The most difficult thing now is to build a brand and manage your identity. Before it was easier to manage the identity because there was the genre that defined the identity. Now without the genre, you need to have a clear vision of your identity. So the most difficult thing is to understand who you are. Do you think AI enhances the whole music-making experience? Definitely. I have no regrets and no shame to say that AI is going to raise the bar of the quality because it's an answer, as you say, for human capabilities. It's like having a brilliant companion in studio. And the most important thing that I think is under-evaluated is that it's breaking the barrier of the access. I mean, there's no cost; and for less cost, we have huge technology and results. So it's, in a way, democratising whole creativity. The chance to create now is for everyone. It's not just for who has money to do. And that's why we are embracing AI, because I think it is a tool for the people. Now, let people be creative and bring their own ideas to life. The greatest revolution of AI is that access is for everyone, a few dollars, to think that was unimaginable before. Imagine doing a video clip in the traditional way. It's like a hundred thousand dollars. Nobody can afford a musical project, unless you are not a major label or you have big money. This will lead to a new, completely new scenario, completely new music. It's exciting, actually. That's why we are embracing AI. In the years since you have been active, how has your music evolved with both of your expertise in violin and filmmaking respectively? It's like having a blueprint, where you base your project, when we do like a track, we always start from that point, you know, the cinematic scene, the classical approach of composition -- so harmonies, chords and orchestration is always like the starting point for everything we do. Now we are focussing a lot on the visual side. Our experience is like the first starting point. Visual storytelling is way more important because, as I say, there is it helps to build the identity. The most difficult thing today is to have original identity, original voice, original tone. So the visual part, because we live in a society that is more visual, with social media and everything, we are immersed in visual storytelling all the time. So visual storytelling from a photo to video is much more important than before and how you use that defines your identity. It's like language. So that's why it is important because it gives everyone the chance to do quality stuff but if you want to do quality stuff, you need to know the language. I mean, not everybody that can prompt instructions for an AI model can do something cool. AI doesn't mean automatic. Growing up at the base of Mount Etna, how has the active volcano inspired you to create music? We started from the geography, definitely but I mean, it's obvious that the place where you are defines the identity. For us, the beginning when we were on the Etna, on the volcano, helped us to shape our sound because we get inspiration from the volcano activity. We often use the sounds that remind us of the explosion or the rumble of the ground and powerful volcano. It gives us the blueprint of identity. When you are touring, you are inspired by the place where you visit. I find Japan and the US very inspiring but the blueprint is always on the volcano, it’s 's like you build above that. We also love sci-fi and I'm a huge fan of sci-fi literature, movies and animation. The good sci-fi has poetic meaning that is like a metaphor of our contemporary living to help us understand the present because projecting in the future and paradox of our world helps you to understand the contradiction of the world you live in. To me, it's more effective because it activates the brain. I think it's also paradoxical and also in a way, like you said, it probably opens a side that you probably had in your subconscious, but haven't really brought it out or put it on paper.
20 December,2025 01:49 PM IST | Mumbai | Nascimento PintoSunburn has come to Mumbai after 18 years, and while World's No 1 Hard DJ Sara Landry is the headliner for the first day, Grammy-Award winning artist and the World’s No 1 DJ David Guetta will be performing on the second day. Guetta's influence shows up in the way the global dance music ecosystem functions today and it isn’t just earned through hits but through the way he has consistently influenced how the world listens, feels and experiences electronic music. For years, the dance music industry has moved through waves, genres rising, subcultures forming, new trends emerging every season. Yet through all this, Guetta, a global festival favourite has remained the constant. When producers talk about him, there’s a mix of respect, admiration and a quiet acknowledgement that he set a standard many still aim for. What makes Guetta an “idol of idols” isn’t just the influence of his sound, but the intention behind it. His music has always carried a sense of accessibility, something that makes people feel instantly connected, no matter where they come from or what kind of music they usually listen to. Upcoming artists don’t just look at his achievements; they look at the clarity of his musical language. It’s a balance that many try to find but few truly master. Guetta did it consistently, making him a point of reference for artists trying to make their mark. In the broader pop culture space, his influence is even more visible. Entire festival moments, viral social media trends, workout playlists and nostalgia edits, somewhere in that mix, there’s always a Guetta track playing. Not because people are consciously choosing him every time, but because his music naturally fits into moments. This is exactly why the industry often refers to him as an artist’s artist. Long before cross-genre partnerships became a formula, Guetta was already bringing global pop, hip-hop and EDM together in ways that felt intuitive, not forced. The impact of that is enormous. He opened pathways for DJs to work with mainstream artists without compromising their credibility. He helped position producers as front-facing artists rather than behind-the-scenes contributors. That shift changed how labels invested in dance music, how festivals curated lineups and how the general public perceived the genre. David Guetta's latest chapter, the Monolith Tour, is a perfect example of this evolution. It shows how he can take the core of what people love about his music and scale it with new technology, new energy and a fresh global vision, without losing the originality that made him iconic in the first place. And now, that same cultural force is heading to India. For fans, artists and the entire dance music community here, it’s a massive moment. David Guetta is coming to Sunburn Festival 2025 in Mumbai and it’s not just a performance, it's a celebration of everything he has contributed to the dance music world and everything he continues to inspire.
19 December,2025 04:27 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentThe city transforms on big concert weekends, the pace quickens, the excitement builds, and every corner feels charged with anticipation. With Sunburn music festival making its Mumbai debut at Infinity Bay in Sewri from December 19 to 21, a little planning can go a long way in ensuring you arrive stress-free and ready to soak it all in. Whether you’re heading in from across the city or travelling from another state, here’s everything you need to know before you attend the music festival in Mumbai this weekend. 1. Take the train: Fast, reliable and festival-friendlyTaking the train is one of the simplest and most reliable ways to get to Sunburn Festival 2025. Mumbai’s local network remains the city’s heartbeat and the Harbour Line, in particular, becomes your quickest gateway to the festival. Sewri Station is the closest railway station and from there, it’s a short, comfortable walk to Infinity Bay. With direct connectivity to Chatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus (CSMT), Wadala, Kurla and Navi Mumbai, travelling by train offers a predictable and time-efficient route that gets you to the venue without the guesswork. 2. Shuttle it straight to Sewri Enjoy a smooth and hassle-free commute to Sunburn Festival 2025 through a dedicated shuttle service operating from Dadar and CSMT railway stations, for attendees. With shuttles departing every 15 minutes, you get convenient, reliable and comfortable travel to the festival grounds. Book your tickets exclusively on BookMyShow. 3. Travelling by road - smooth connectivity from across MumbaiIf you prefer road travel, Sewri is connected through major Mumbai arteries that make reaching the venue smooth from every direction. Whether you're coming from South Mumbai, Central areas, the suburbs or Navi Mumbai, cab and ride-share services offer a direct and convenient journey all the way up to the vicinity of the venue. The road network around Sewri is designed for clear, straightforward movement, giving you a seamless ride as you build up the excitement on your way in. 4. Flying In? Here’s your route from the airportFor those flying in for music festival, getting to Infinity Bay, the venue is roughly 18 kilometres from Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport (CSMIA) and a cab or ride-share trip takes you directly to Sewri. The route is well-marked, simple to follow and ideal for travellers who want to slip into festival mode the moment they land in Mumbai. 5. Buses is always a great option for those staying nearbyThe bus network is another dependable option as buses to Sewri Naka and surrounding pockets offer a relaxed and easy journey to the festival zone and if you’re travelling from cities like Pune, Nashik, Kolhapur, Nagpur, Ahmedabad or Surat, planning your travel with friends can turn the commute into the start of the celebration itself. 6. Groove to the music with Cityflo Sunburn Festival has partnered with Cityflo to provide buses from Goregaon, Thane and Navi Mumbai, through the Cityflo app, ensuring you can get to the venue stress-free. Get to Infiniti Bay with comfort and convenience, and fellow fans partying along the way! Sunburn festival party kitA few essentials can help make your festival experience even better. Keep your festival band handy so your entry is quick and comfortable. Carry a clear water bottle and a fully charged power bank to stay hydrated and connected throughout the day. Downloading offline maps of the venue and your travel route can help you move around easily at any time. Dress in comfortable clothes and footwear that let you enjoy the festival grounds freely. Top up in advance, keep your digital payment apps updated, carry a little cash if needed and secure your personal belongings before you step inside. See you at Infinity BayWith these tips in mind, getting to Sunburn Festival 2025 becomes part of the experience itself. The stages are set, the city is buzzing, and Mumbai is ready to welcome fans to three unforgettable days of music, energy and year-end celebration at Infinity Bay, Sewri.
19 December,2025 03:16 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentADVERTISEMENT
