The Republic Day holiday, falling on a Monday, acted as a catalyst for travel, compared to last year when the January 26 holiday fell on a Sunday. The spike starts on January 23 (Friday) and peaks on January 24 (Saturday), as travellers start their trips early to make the most of the extended weekend

TOP 5 DOMESTIC LEISURE DESTINATIONS

Domestic leisure travel trends for the Republic Day long weekend showed both continuity and shifts year-on-year. In 2025, Goa led the list of top destinations, followed by Udaipur, Jaipur, Manali, and Munnar. In 2026, Goa retained its top position, while Jaipur and Udaipur swapped ranks to take the second and third spots, respectively. Manali continued to feature among the top four destinations, and Pondicherry entered the top five in 2026

SPIRITUAL TRAVEL IS SEEING STRONG DEMAND

In terms of spiritual travel, destinations such as Puri, Varanasi, Amritsar, Ayodhya, Ujjain, Dwarka, Udupi, and Tirupati are seeing strong demand.

TOP 5 INTERNATIONAL DESTINATIONS

In 2025, the UAE emerged as the most preferred international destination, followed by Thailand, Singapore, Malaysia, and Saudi Arabia. In 2026, Thailand moved to the top spot, with the UAE close behind in second place. Vietnam stood out this year, rising sharply from 10th position in 2025 to become the third most booked international destination for the long weekend. Malaysia retained its fourth position, while Singapore featured fifth among the top international choices.

TOP 5 INTERNATIONAL DESTINATIONS FROM KEY METRO CITIES

• Delhi travellers showed a preference for Dubai, followed by Bangkok, Phuket, Kuala Lumpur, and Bali.
• From Mumbai, Dubai emerged as the top destination, with Bangkok, Phuket, Singapore, and Colombo also featuring among the top five.
• Bengaluru travellers favoured Bangkok most, followed by Dubai, Phuket, Colombo, and Singapore.
• Chennai saw Bangkok lead outbound travel choices, followed by Dubai, Singapore, Kuala Lumpur, and Colombo.
• From Kolkata, Bangkok ranked highest, with Kuala Lumpur, Phuket, Dubai, and Singapore completing the list of top international destinations

TOP 5 DOMESTIC DESTINATIONS FROM KEY METRO CITIES

• Travellers from Delhi preferred Goa the most, followed by Jaipur, Rishikesh, Mussoori, and Udaipur.
• From Mumbai, Goa led domestic choices, with Lonavala, Alibag, Mahabaleshwar, and Karjat rounding off the top five.
• Bengaluru travellers showed a strong preference for Goa, followed by Mysore, Coorg, Pondicherry, and Wayanad.
• Chennai’s top domestic destinations included Goa, Auroville, Yelagiri, Yercaud, and Ooty.
• From Kolkata, Mandarmani emerged as the most preferred destination, followed by Digha, Darjeeling, Go,a and Shantiniketan

TOP 5 DOMESTIC HOLIDAY PACKAGE DESTINATIONS

1. Kerala
2. Andaman
3. Goa
4. Rajasthan
5. Tamil Nadu

TOP 5 INTERNATIONAL HOLIDAY PACKAGE DESTINATIONS

1. Thailand
2. Vietnam & Cambodia
3. UAE
4. Maldives
5. Indonesia

“The appetite for weekend travel remains strong, with the extended Republic Day weekend presenting an opportunity for travel. There is a preference for nearby destinations, evident in the top travel choices from each metro. That said, Goa remains the favourite leisure destination within India. Internationally, the skew towards easy-visa destinations continues to gain traction. Countries with direct connectivity to multiple cities are leading demand, with Thailand at the forefront and Vietnam also performing strongly.” – Rajesh Magow, Co-founder & Group CEO, MakeMyTrip

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The inaugural moments of the event unfolded in the timeless Indian tradition, symbolizing the illumination of knowledge and wisdom through the ceremonial lighting of the lamp. Standing as custodians of this symbolic act were luminaries of FIA: Founder and Chairman Sunil Shah, President Vinita Gulabani, President Pratibha Jairath, and esteemed past presidents, each contributing to the collective radiance. In keeping with FIA’s commitment to inclusivity, the stage beckoned all Advisory Board members, Directors, and Members, to partake in this auspicious initiation.

The grandeur of the main event was ushered in by the dynamic presence of FIA’s General Secretary, Nilabh Dubey, seizing the stage to a resounding applause that echoed through the venue. Nilabh Dubey set the tone by introducing the evening’s main MCs with his eloquent articulation that offered a glimpse into the diverse talents that define FIA, specifically, that highlighting the professional achievements of the evening’s MCs. The spotlight of the evening shifted seamlessly to the captivating presence of the main MCs, Anu Malhotra and Suchitra Kukreja, who effortlessly took command of the stage, igniting the atmosphere with great excitement.

Inviting Founder Chairman Sunil Shah to share his insights, Sunil Shah, in his smooth style, painted a vivid picture of FIA’s pivotal role in uniting the diaspora in and around Chicago land over the past several years, including expanding into neighboring states. Sunil Shah eloquently articulated the organization’s vision and mission, setting the stage for a night of celebration and reflection.

Past President Vinita Gulabani, gracing the stage, highlighted the remarkable achievements of 2023, emphasizing the phenomenal growth from 58 to over 160 members—a testament to a staggering 300 percent increase in funding, event sizes, and the number of events hosted. Current President Pratibha Jairath, invited to the stage by Anu Malhotra, expressed gratitude to the Executive members and outlined her ambitious plan for 2024. In a groundbreaking move, she introduced an additional event focusing on Animal Medical Welfare and Care, reiterating FIA’s commitment to diverse and impactful community engagement.

The stage then welcomed the esteemed Chief Guest for the evening, Consulate General Somnath Ghosh, who spoke passionately about the relevance of India’s Republic Day to the Indian Diaspora, conveying key messages from the President of India to the captivated audience.

In a poignant moment, FIA’s Advisory Board members, instrumental in the organization’s decade-long growth, took center stage. Syed Hussaini, Manish Gandhi, Asha Oroskar, Pinky Thakkar, Lakhvir Sahota, Dr. Anuja Gupta, Dr. Bhupinder Beri, Dr. Suresh Reddy, Nimish Jani, Shrujal Patel, Sushma Bhanot, Shital Daftari, and Jasbir Suga shared their perspectives on FIA’s contributions to the community, underscoring the collective impact made month after month.

The culmination of this segment gave way to an exhilarating and patriotic performance, as children from the Atharv Dance Academy, unleashed a foot-stomping patriotic dance that echoed the spirit of the evening.

The festivities included the bestowal of awards and honors upon exceptional individuals who have left an indelible mark on the community across diverse fields. Founder Chairman Sunil Shah, President Vinita Gulabani, President Pratibha Jairath, and Consulate General Somnath Ghosh, graced the occasion to present these accolades. The luminaries acknowledged for their unwavering generosity in both time and funding, breathing vitality into numerous remarkable FIA and community initiatives, were Sudhir and Archana Agarwal, Pinky & Dinesh Thakkar, Chintan & Digna Patel, Chirag Patel, Sunny Patel, Arjun Patel, Manish & Shailja Gandhi, Suketu Amin, Kunal Sarangi (ex-MLA), Naresh Shah, Dr. Bhupinder Beri, and Jayanti Oza. The dynamic duo MCs, Anu Malhotra and Suchitra Kukreja brought their collective expertise to the forefront, turning the award ceremony into a flawless celebration of community service and contribution.

Jaspreet Kharbanda, the CFO of Dabur USA, took us on a heartfelt journey to India, not just through geography but through the senses, creating an immersive experience. In a gesture that transcended the ordinary, he generously treated all attendees to the rich flavors of Badshah masala chai/tea and the delightful burst of aromatic richness of Pani Puri. Truly Jaspreet’s thoughtful gesture reinforced the simple act of breaking bread together.

In a commitment to fostering community development, the FIA proudly extends its support through a commendable scholarship program presented annually on India’s Republic Day. This initiative, grounded in both financial need and academic excellence, attracted an impressive pool of more than 35 applications this year. The rigorous evaluation led to the shortlisting of 17 exceptional candidates, and we are thrilled to announce that, on this occasion, 6 remarkable individuals were honored with scholarships. The entire process was led by Vinita Gulabani and Kamlesh Kapoor from FIA. Consulate General Somnath Ghosh, Swapnil Shah, Sahaj Shah, Asha Oroskar, Lakhvir Sahota, and Kamlesh Kapoor, graciously presided over the awards ceremony. Vice President of FIA and pro-MC Richa Chand, with an eloquent and inspirational delivery, announced the recipients of the scholarships, highlighting their remarkable achievements. Richa Chand infused the moment with a sense of pride and uplifting experience for the exceptional accomplishments of the scholarship winners. These scholarships, a testament to the collaborative spirit of various businesses and the visionary leadership within the FIA, symbolize our unwavering dedication to nurturing talent and empowering the aspirations of deserving students in Chicago land.

Chandini Duvvuri, Vice President of FIA, eloquently conveyed the Vote of Thanks, embodying gratitude and appreciation on behalf of the entire organization. In her heartfelt expression of thanks, Chandini extended sincere appreciation to Founder Chairman Sunil Shah, acknowledging the enduring legacy he has crafted and commending current and past presidents for consistently elevating the standards of FIA events to unprecedented heights. She expressed deep gratitude to Consulate General Somnath Ghosh, Linda Davenport, Court Judge, and other esteemed dignitaries whose presence added prestige to the occasion. Chandini offered a profound thank you to the altruistic individuals whose generous contributions made the event and scholarships possible. Recognizing the dedication and unwavering commitment of FIA Advisory Board members and Directors, she emphasized their pivotal role in shaping the organization’s collaborative spirit and serving as a continual source of inspiration.

President Vinita Gulabani set the stage ablaze, ushering in the main cultural show with a magnetic presence that commanded attention. Her introduction of renowned artists from India and across the globe heightened anticipation, reaching a crescendo when the iconic Shaid Rafi was warmly welcomed on stage, earning a resounding standing ovation. Shahid Rafi, with grace and nostalgia, guided the audience through the corridors of memory, offering poignant insights into Mohammad Rafi’s personal life and his role as a father.

The cultural extravaganza unfolded with a cascade of melodies that transported the audience through a time capsule of Bollywood’s golden era. Classics such as “Aajkal Tere Mera Pyar Kay Charche,” “Chaahe Koi Mujhe Junglee Kahe,” “Yeh Chand Sa Roshan Chehra,” “Gulabi Aankhen,” and “Parda Hai Parda” echoed through the venue, setting the stage on fire.

During the electrifying rendition of ‘An Evening in Paris,’ Sunil Shah’s signature dance moves ignited the crowd, prompting an impromptu dance floor and stage invasion by the audience. The infectious energy made it a delightful challenge for our ace photographers—Suresh Bodiwala, Vivek Joshi, Nilabh Dubey, Ramesh Punetar, Jayanti Oza, and Matt Chennoor—to capture the essence of the unbridled celebration.

The crowd, carried away by the euphoria, chanted “Once more, once more” after each super-hit performance by Neelajan Ray, Priyanka Mittra, Sammy M., Gautami Roy, Prakhar Ghosh, and Mohammad Salamat. Even the Q&A session between Rizwan and Shahid Rafi added a touch of humor, leaving the audience clamoring for more on a night that seamlessly blended patriotism, nostalgia, entertainment, and sheer joy.

As the resonant notes of Mohammad Rafi’s songs, sung by Shahid Rafi, patriotic melodies filled the air, a poignant scene unfolded among some of the senior citizens who had witnessed the trials and triumphs of India’s freedom struggle. The evocative strains of timeless classics like “Mera Rang De Basanti Chola,” “Karo Zindagi Ko Watan Ke Hawaale,” and “Nafrat Ki Laathi Todo” stirred deep emotions, bringing tears to the eyes of those who had personally lived through the historic era. In those heartfelt moments, the power of Rafi’s voice became a bridge, connecting the present to the indomitable spirit of the past. Songs such as “Naujawaanon Bharat Ki Taqdeer,” “Sarfaroshi Ki Tamanna,” and “Yeh Desh Hai Veer Jawaanon Ka” acted as an emotional time machine, transporting these seniors back to a time of sacrifice, unity, and an unyielding love for their motherland. The tears that welled up in their eyes were not just a response to music; they were a poignant tribute to the enduring legacy of India’s struggle for independence. The yearning for more was felt through the audience, an audible echo of their profound connection to the mesmerizing performance, many requests were made to Founder Chairman Sunil Shah to continue the program for some more time. Yet, as the clock struck midnight, signaling the culmination of a spectacular show, a collective sigh of both satisfaction and reluctance filled the air. The lingering applause and non-stop dancing, though a token of appreciation, was also a wistful plea for the FIA’s Republic Day magic to continue.

As the Consulate General of India, Sonath Ghosh, truly remarked “This FIA, Chicago event was not merely a reflection, but a vivid manifestation of our love for India and profound pride in being part of the world’s largest democracy, India.  The celebration left an indelible impression, cultivating a heightened sense of patriotism and national pride among the Non-Resident Indians (NRIs) connected to their roots and heritage”.

FIA Chicago’s Republic Day festivities were not just a commemoration; they were a powerful testament to the enduring spirit of India and its diaspora.

The post The Federation Of Indian Associations Chicago (FIA) Hosts USA’s Largest Republic Day Celebrations appeared first on NRI News.

PUNE: As the country proceeds to observe its 75^th Republic Day this year, Centuary Mattress, a trusted name in the sleep solutions industry in India for more than 35 years, announces an exclusive offer on its Hybrid Collection, emphasizing the essence of the #RightToSleep. Under the offer, customers across Hyderabad and the Telangana region can purchase any variant from the brand’s most premium mattress collection by paying only 75% of the MRP. They can also opt for easy EMI options offered by Bajaj Finserv.

The latest Hybrid Collection by Centuary Mattress incorporates innovative materials such as Micro Springs, Latex Foam, CNC Contour Foam, and Copper-gel Memory Foam, ensuring a perfect blend of comfort and innovation. The collection showcases four state-of-the-art mattresses: Centuary Infinity-Luxury Pocketed Spring Mattress, Natura Latex and Coir Mattress, Centuary Enigma-Contour Latex Foam Mattress, and Centuary Pixel-Copper Gel Memory Foam Mattress.

Uttam Malani, Executive Director of Centuary Mattress, expressed, “This Republic Day, we want everyone to celebrate the spirit of patriotism and festivities with a good night’s sleep. As India’s sleep specialist for more than three decades now, we aim to meet the evolving needs of consumers, and make luxury and comfort accessible to everyone.”

Customers eager to make the most of the Republic Day offer on the Hybrid Collection can visit Centuary’s stores or explore the selection on the official website https://www.centuaryindia.com/. This limited-period offer is valid until 31st January 2024.

With a legacy spanning over 3 decades, Centuary Mattress, popularly known as India’s Sleep Specialist, is India’s fastest-growing mattress brand and the veritable pioneer of the comfort & bedding industry in India. With its roots in Hyderabad; the Centuary brand has constantly innovated and established itself as a front-runner in the mattress space while exponentially expanding its product range and geographical footprint. Today, the brand offers a comprehensive range of sleep solutions such as spring mattresses, foam mattresses, coir mattresses, memory foam mattresses, and orthopedic mattresses. Centuary has a separate product range for online customers under the brand name ‘Sleepables by Centuary’.

Apart from this, understanding that the needs of a growing baby’s body are different from adults, Centuary launched a special baby mattress collection under the brand name Beddy By Centuary. Centuary Mattresses is the first ISO-certified mattress brand in India. Centuary Mattress has secured the CertiPUR-US certification for developing high-quality products and complying with the global agency CertiPUR-US’s quality standards and environmental norms.

The company has become one of the few Indian brands to get the CertiPUR-US certification. Shree Malani Foams, (part of the Centuary group) is also one of the largest exporters of Mattresses and is recognized as a Star Export House by the Ministry of Commerce and Industry. The company has pioneered many innovative technologies in the country such as Copper Gel; Micro Springs; and more recently Centuary Protect – an Antimicrobial shield on all its mattresses (which is recommended by the National Health Academy). 

 Centuary Mattresses has established a strong presence in the country across 18 states with 4500+ dealers and 450+ exclusive brand stores. It has manufacturing plants located in Hyderabad and Bhubaneswar, company-operated sales depots in Pune, Bangalore, Warangal, Vizag, Vijayawada, Kurnool, Sambalpur, and sales offices across South, East, and West India.

The post Centuary Mattress unveils exclusive Republic Day offer on its Hybrid Collection to celebrate the #RightToSleep appeared first on NRI News.

Through the countdown to the on-ground event, this unique challenge encourages individuals to share their planking videos with the #PlankForAces, creating a collective gesture of gratitude for ISRO’s stellar contributions to space exploration.

Chandramohan Mehra, Chief Marketing Officer, Bajaj Allianz Life, said, “A highly engaging fitness drive at the core, the plank initiative in its 4th edition, continues to be anchored on platforms that strike a chord with a larger cohort. The new edition of the Plank campaign celebrates ISRO’s accomplishments which also align with India’s unmatched rise in tech, economic, and geopolitical power. We are confident that #PlankForAces will generate massive participation as it has always done“.

The Bajaj Allianz Life Plankton has gone beyond individual health and fitness benefits to contribute to larger societal causes since 2018. The first edition, #36SecPlankChallenge, was linked to curing heart disorders amongst economically disadvantaged kids in collaboration with Hrudaya Foundation. The second edition, #PlankForIndia, supported the young Indian Olympians in association with OGQ. The third edition #PlankToThank aimed to express gratitude towards the Indian Armed Forces mark India’s 75th Independence Day in style and provide for livelihood for retired jawans.

Join the fourth edition, #PlankForACES 2024, and commit to championing the cause of fitness, and salute the real ACES of ISRO.

To participate:

• Record your 10 seconds plank video
• Upload on https://lnkd.in/dYQay2bM

The post Bajaj Allianz Life’s plank-led fitness initiative celebrates ISRO’s grand feats, this 75th Republic Day appeared first on NRI News.

Event Details:

Date: 25th Jan 2024

Theme: Tri-color Extravaganza

Highlights:

• Decorations: Immerse yourself in patriotic fervor as Dextrus adorns all the centers with vibrant tri-color decorations, creating a festive ambiance.
• Traditional Attire: Join the team in celebrating the rich cultural tapestry of our nation by wearing something traditional. Let’s paint the day with the colors of diversity!
• Photo Booth: Capture the memories in the specially set up photo booth at the cafe. Whether solo or with your team, strike a pose and make this Republic Day unforgettable.
• Quick Games: Get ready for some one-minute games that promise laughter and joy. It’s a perfect way to add a dash of fun to the festivities!
• Creatives: We’ve attached a sneak peek of the creative designs for your reference.

Let’s come together to make this Republic Day celebration a memorable one.

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