A unique conversational show that brings the top leaders across all industries, sharing their insights on different agendas, right at the centre of WION's headquarters. Watch MakeMyTrip's Chief Marketing Officer, Parikshit Choudhury exclusive interview with Jasper Reid.

MakeMyTrip, Chief Marketing Officer, Parikshit Mehta in an exclusive interview

A unique conversational show that brings the top leaders across all industries, sharing their insights on different agendas, right at the centre of WION's headquarters. Watch Vega's Chief Marketing Officer, Eiti Singhal's exclusive interview with Jasper Reid.

Vega's Chief Marketing Officer, Eiti Singhal in an exclusive interview with WION

In a patriarchal society, a woman's worth has long been attached to her vagina and its "purity". This obsession has, for years, given way to harmful methods to maintain so-called purity. Here's the latest one.

Fake female genital remedies: Big tech profits, but is patriarchy the real culprit?

In an exclusive interview with WION, External Affairs Minister, Dr. S Jaishankar, expressed his thoughts on India hosting the mega G20 summit, and how did Prime Minister gave direction to the entire presidency and more more.

EAM Jaishankar Exclusive Interview: PM Modi is ready, is capable, is willing to do much more

In an exclusive interview with WION, External Affairs Minister, Dr S Jaishankar, expressed his thoughts on India hosting the mega G20 summit, and how India was able to bring the voice of the global south to the table.

EAM Jaishankar Exclusive Interview: 'We consciously decided to invite the global south'

In an exclusive interview with WION, External Affairs Minister, Dr S Jaishankar, expressed his thoughts on India hosting the mega G20 summit, listing out key areas in which India took the lead, including the inclusion of the African Union in the grouping. India hosted the summit on 9-10 September in Delhi which saw a gathering of over 20 top global leaders.

EAM Jaishankar Exclusive Interview: 'Our commitments to Africa have increased'

Talking about motherhood, actor Neha Dhupia shares about her pregnancy and raising kids in this selfie interview with WION's Abira Dhar. Watch the full interview here.

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Women who applied for positions at Bill Gates's private office, Gates Ventures, seeking jobs claim that they were asked sexually explicit questions during the interviews, Some of the female job seekers were asked about extramarital affairs, STD, if they had any nude photographs of themselves on their mobile phones or 'danced for dollar'. Molly Gambhir tells you more.

Gravitas: Women interviewing for Gates Ventures asked explicit questions

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Nepal's FM NP Saud: Will welcome projects in grants from neighbours

India's relationship with the UK is a long-standing friendship that has spanned decades. On a diplomatic visit to India, the UK minister of State for South Asia spoke to WION. His lordship delves into the potential around India-UK Free Trade Agreement and UK's response to the recent vandalism in the country.

UK MoS Lord Tariq Ahmad on 3-city tour

Indian film Agra will have its world premiere at the prestigious Cannes Film Festival 2023 in the Directors’ Fortnight section on May 24. Competing as the only Indian film in the category, written and directed by Kanu Behl, the film explores a family’s interpersonal dynamics in context with its understanding of sexual relationships and more. Agra explores the challenges faced by young Indians who are experimental in their choices but are bound by traditional values. Anything but simple, the makers promise the film to be complex as it takes on love&nbsp;and relationships in contemporary India. The film stars Rahul Roy, Priyanka Bose, Mohit Agarwal, Ruhani Sharma, Vibha Chibber, Sonal Jha, and Aanchal Goswami.&nbsp;

Set for its world premiere at Cannes 2023 on May 24, WION got in touch with Agra’s film producer Siddharth Anand Kumar, who got talking about the Cannes exposure for his film, betting on award-winning director Kanu Behl and Agra’s India release plans.

Read the excerpts of the exclusive conversation with Agra’s producer here:

WION: Congratulations are in order since your film Agra is getting its world premiere at Cannes. How does it feel?&nbsp;

Siddharth: It is a moment of great pride and joy for our team because Cannes is one of the most prestigious film festivals. What an incredible honour that Agra has been chosen to be discovered by some of the finest filmmakers of our time and a global audience. This is not a regular, commercial film and is a fearless exploration of a very complex theme. We believed in Kanu Behl's brilliance as a writer and a director and this honour has vindicated our faith in him.&nbsp;

<img alt="Agra" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="4f0be880-382e-4ab2-85bd-5308b25f8ba1" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/HORIZONS%20-%202023-05-23T172542.369.jpg" />

WION: Did you ever anticipate that you would get to take your special project to Cannes?&nbsp;

Siddharth: Everyone makes a film with the hope that it will reach the largest audience possible and we hoped that the film would be appreciated at festivals like Cannes. To have this level of exposure, I would say, is a combination of right decision-making and luck.

<h2>AGRA at Cannes: Indian films getting world recognition</h2>

WION: In general, many of our films are winning awards, getting screened at world festivals, and bagging box office success worldwide. How do you feel about this exposure and our films going to world film festivals?

Siddharth: We have a very large film market where escapist cinema with larger-than-life characters, music, and dance is still the primary purveyor of entertainment. These kinds of films generally do not go to film festivals as festival juries are largely looking for stories with a unique creative voice and a very interesting and localised perspective on what could be a universal issue. However, significant films have also emerged from the parallel cinema movement which began in India in the 40s with films like Neecha Nagar, which then grew in the 50s with Satyajit Ray's Pather Panchali and in the 60s with Ritwik Ghatak's Meghe Dhaka Tara and Mrinal Sen's Bhuvan Shome.&nbsp;

Post the establishment of NFDC in 1975, we saw the emergence of makers like Shyam Benegal, Govind Nihalani, and many more whose cinema was also celebrated in global film festivals. The cinema of Malayalam stalwarts like Ramu Kariat, Shaji Karun, and G Aravindan too has a strong international following. &nbsp;

As for Agra, it is very unique for us as a film production house/studio whose primary job is to make commercial films, to make a film such as this which addresses the human condition and has been selected to premiere at Cannes for its universality. Its biggest strength is that it is led by the vision of the writer, director Kanu Behl who has very specific things to say.

<h2>AGRA at Cannes: How does a film get to premiere at Cannes and the process to submit?</h2>

WION: How does a film qualify and get to premiere at Cannes? What is the selection process like?

Siddharth: You need to apply, send a print of your film and a selection committee watches the film and accepts or rejects it. Cannes is a very ethical organisation and has transparent processes. To be chosen for a section called 'Director’s Fortnight' is a great honour for a film that was made with a lot of passion, conviction, and love.

WION: What is the cost involved in sending a film to Cannes? Will you be visiting Cannes for the world premiere of Agra?&nbsp;

Siddharth: Yes, we will be attending the world premiere on May 24 I will be representing our production house with two of our actors and Kanu Behl. We paid a nominal application fee like everyone who submits their films but the fee does not impact the decision of the jury. As I said before, the selection process is very transparent and anyone can check it on the Cannes website. IN PICS:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/day-1-at-cannes-2023-all-indian-celebrities-at-the-red-carpet-hits-and-misses-593296">Day 1 at Cannes:&nbsp;All Indian celebrities at the red carpet, hits and misses</a>

<img alt="Agra" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="0094a7db-4140-415e-afcb-684aabe20ef8" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/HORIZONS%20-%202023-05-23T173001.595.jpg" />

WION: Could you comment on the casting of the film? Who were the brains behind that?

Siddharth: Definitely Kanu. We also have an in-house casting team that has worked with Kanu to ensure that his vision was realised but in a film like this, the primary credit has to go to the writer, director.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/family-says-shocked-as-popular-actor-nitesh-pandey-dies-of-reported-cardiac-arrest-595848">Family says 'shocked' as popular actor Nitesh Pandey dies reportedly due to cardiac arrest</a>

<h2>AGRA at Cannes: When and where it will release in India</h2>

WION: When will it be released in India? Will it be a theatrical release or OTT?&nbsp;

Siddharth: It is too early to tell. Once the film goes to the Cannes Film Festival, it is obligated to play at certain theatres in France and we will also go to many other world film festivals. Once we finish with that, we will formulate a release plan because as makers, we do want the film to reach a wide audience. We would like it to go to theatres first with a limited release in urban centres and then go to OTT platforms.

Agra along with three other films namely, Kennedy, Ishanou, and Nehemich, will premiere this year at the Cannes Film Festival 2023 from India. Written and directed by Kanu Behl, the Hindi film is produced by Saregama India Ltd, UFO Production, and O28 Films.

Cannes 2023 will be held from May 16 to May 27, 2023. This year has been extra special with more films from India screening at the film festival along with actresses walking the red carpet as part of the Indian delegation, brand deals, and film premieres. This year, Aishwarya Rai Bachchan, Mrunal Thakur, Esha Gupta, Sara Alia Khan, Urvashi Rautela, Manushi Chhillar, and Diana Penty have walked the red carpet so far. Anushka Sharma is also expected at Cannes this year.&nbsp;

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Indian film Agra will have its world premiere at the prestigious Cannes Film Festival 2023 in the Directors’ Fortnight section on May 24. Competing as the only Indian film in the category, written and directed by Kanu Behl, the film explores a family’s interpersonal dynamics in context with its understanding of sexual relationships and more.

Indian film Agra will have its world premiere at the prestigious Cannes Film Festival 2023 in the Directors’ Fortnight section on May 24. Competing as the only Indian film in the category, written and directed by Kanu Behl, the film explores a family’s interpersonal dynamics in context with its understanding of sexual relationships and more. Agra explores the challenges faced by young Indians who are experimental in their choices but are bound by traditional values. Anything but simple, the makers promise the film to be complex as it takes on love and relationships in contemporary India. The film stars Rahul Roy, Priyanka Bose, Mohit Agarwal, Ruhani Sharma, Vibha Chibber, Sonal Jha, and Aanchal Goswami. Set for its world premiere at Cannes 2023 on May 24, WION got in touch with Agra’s film producer Siddharth Anand Kumar, who got talking about the Cannes exposure for his film, betting on award-winning director Kanu Behl and Agra’s India release plans. Read the excerpts of the exclusive conversation with Agra’s producer here: WION: Congratulations are in order since your film Agra is getting its world premiere at Cannes. How does it feel? Siddharth: It is a moment of great pride and joy for our team because Cannes is one of the most prestigious film festivals. What an incredible honour that Agra has been chosen to be discovered by some of the finest filmmakers of our time and a global audience. This is not a regular, commercial film and is a fearless exploration of a very complex theme. We believed in Kanu Behl's brilliance as a writer and a director and this honour has vindicated our faith in him. WION: Did you ever anticipate that you would get to take your special project to Cannes? Siddharth: Everyone makes a film with the hope that it will reach the largest audience possible and we hoped that the film would be appreciated at festivals like Cannes. To have this level of exposure, I would say, is a combination of right decision-making and luck. AGRA at Cannes: Indian films getting world recognition WION: In general, many of our films are winning awards, getting screened at world festivals, and bagging box office success worldwide. How do you feel about this exposure and our films going to world film festivals? Siddharth: We have a very large film market where escapist cinema with larger-than-life characters, music, and dance is still the primary purveyor of entertainment. These kinds of films generally do not go to film festivals as festival juries are largely looking for stories with a unique creative voice and a very interesting and localised perspective on what could be a universal issue. However, significant films have also emerged from the parallel cinema movement which began in India in the 40s with films like Neecha Nagar, which then grew in the 50s with Satyajit Ray's Pather Panchali and in the 60s with Ritwik Ghatak's Meghe Dhaka Tara and Mrinal Sen's Bhuvan Shome. Post the establishment of NFDC in 1975, we saw the emergence of makers like Shyam Benegal, Govind Nihalani, and many more whose cinema was also celebrated in global film festivals. The cinema of Malayalam stalwarts like Ramu Kariat, Shaji Karun, and G Aravindan too has a strong international following. As for Agra, it is very unique for us as a film production house/studio whose primary job is to make commercial films, to make a film such as this which addresses the human condition and has been selected to premiere at Cannes for its universality. Its biggest strength is that it is led by the vision of the writer, director Kanu Behl who has very specific things to say. AGRA at Cannes: How does a film get to premiere at Cannes and the process to submit? WION: How does a film qualify and get to premiere at Cannes? What is the selection process like? Siddharth: You need to apply, send a print of your film and a selection committee watches the film and accepts or rejects it. Cannes is a very ethical organisation and has transparent processes. To be chosen for a section called 'Director’s Fortnight' is a great honour for a film that was made with a lot of passion, conviction, and love. WION: What is the cost involved in sending a film to Cannes? Will you be visiting Cannes for the world premiere of Agra? Siddharth: Yes, we will be attending the world premiere on May 24 I will be representing our production house with two of our actors and Kanu Behl. We paid a nominal application fee like everyone who submits their films but the fee does not impact the decision of the jury. As I said before, the selection process is very transparent and anyone can check it on the Cannes website. IN PICS: Day 1 at Cannes: All Indian celebrities at the red carpet, hits and misses WION: Could you comment on the casting of the film? Who were the brains behind that? Siddharth: Definitely Kanu. We also have an in-house casting team that has worked with Kanu to ensure that his vision was realised but in a film like this, the primary credit has to go to the writer, director. Also read: Family says 'shocked' as popular actor Nitesh Pandey dies reportedly due to cardiac arrest AGRA at Cannes: When and where it will release in India WION: When will it be released in India? Will it be a theatrical release or OTT? Siddharth: It is too early to tell. Once the film goes to the Cannes Film Festival, it is obligated to play at certain theatres in France and we will also go to many other world film festivals. Once we finish with that, we will formulate a release plan because as makers, we do want the film to reach a wide audience. We would like it to go to theatres first with a limited release in urban centres and then go to OTT platforms. Agra along with three other films namely, Kennedy, Ishanou, and Nehemich, will premiere this year at the Cannes Film Festival 2023 from India. Written and directed by Kanu Behl, the Hindi film is produced by Saregama India Ltd, UFO Production, and O28 Films. Cannes 2023 will be held from May 16 to May 27, 2023. This year has been extra special with more films from India screening at the film festival along with actresses walking the red carpet as part of the Indian delegation, brand deals, and film premieres. This year, Aishwarya Rai Bachchan, Mrunal Thakur, Esha Gupta, Sara Alia Khan, Urvashi Rautela, Manushi Chhillar, and Diana Penty have walked the red carpet so far. Anushka Sharma is also expected at Cannes this year. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Cannes Exclusive: Indian film Agra producer reflects on film's journey to Cannes 2023

Buolo Ren, a leading distributor of foreign films in China and the current Vice General of the entertainment company, Mobius Entertainment spoke to WION about the effect of the pandemic on cinema and filmmaking in general. With an unending passion for films and understanding the economics involved with them, Buolo reflects on how different kinds of stories from all over the world can help cinemas in different parts of the world to thrive and become economically viable. As theatres feel the heat amid a sharp rise in demand for OTT content and success in terms of ROI of the total budget and gross collections, Buolo suggests makers experiment with new-age marketing styles, audiences be exposed to a wider quality of&nbsp;content (sans any geographical limitations) and a general overhaul of cinema everywhere.&nbsp;

Here are the excerpts of our exclusive conversation as Buolo Ren attended FICCI Frames 2023 in&nbsp;India:

WION: India and China have a similar cultural heritage. Both countries love their homegrown films and are passionate about watching them too, churning out an exaggerated number of films annually. What kind of changes have you witnessed in our industries in the post-pandemic world?&nbsp;

Buolo Ren: The film industries of both India and China have undergone significant changes post-pandemic. With the closure of theatres and restrictions on shooting, the focus shifted toward the digital platform. Both industries have witnessed a surge in the production of web series, short films, and documentaries, with many of them released&nbsp;on OTT platforms like Netflix, Amazon Prime, and Hotstar in India and similarly iQiyi, Tencent, Youku Tudou, Mango TV in China. Additionally, the pandemic has led to a change in the content of the movies and shows produced in these countries, with many of them focusing on socially relevant topics.

The pandemic has led to a significant shift in our viewing habits. OTT platforms have seen a significant increase in their user base, and people have started preferring to watch movies and shows from the comfort of their homes.

WION: What does that mean for cinema?&nbsp;

Buolo Ren: OTT platforms have significantly changed the way people view cinema. With the availability of a vast library of movies and shows, people now have the option to choose from a variety of content. The traditional theatrical release of movies is no longer the only way to reach audiences, and many movies and shows are now released directly on OTT platforms. Cinema is no longer just a theatrical experience.

WION: What about changes in filmmaking techniques?&nbsp;

Buolo Ren: The closure of theatres and restrictions on shooting led to a halt in the production of movies and shows. Filmmakers have had to adapt to the changing scenario and come up with innovative ways to reach their audiences. Many filmmakers have started exploring the potential of virtual production techniques to shoot their movies and shows. Additionally, the pandemic has led to a change in the way movies and shows are promoted, with digital marketing becoming the primary mode of promotion.

WION: Will theatres survive this shift? &nbsp;

Buolo Ren: Surely there is a decrease in the number of people going to theatres but to tackle this change, many theatre chains are now partnering with OTT platforms to provide their users with an enhanced viewing experience. Some theatre chains have started providing their customers with the option to watch movies and shows directly on their websites. Additionally, some theatre chains have started offering personalised viewing experiences to their customers, such as private screenings for small groups of people. The industry is also exploring the potential of virtual cinema to provide its customers with an immersive viewing experience.&nbsp;

Overall, the industry is adapting to the changing scenario and coming up with innovative ways to provide its customers with the best viewing experience possible.

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here.</a>

 
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Buolo Ren, a leading distributor of foreign films in China and the current Vice General of the entertainment company, Mobius Entertainment spoke to WION about the effect of the pandemic on cinema and filmmaking in general.

Buolo Ren, a leading distributor of foreign films in China and the current Vice General of the entertainment company, Mobius Entertainment spoke to WION about the effect of the pandemic on cinema and filmmaking in general. With an unending passion for films and understanding the economics involved with them, Buolo reflects on how different kinds of stories from all over the world can help cinemas in different parts of the world to thrive and become economically viable. As theatres feel the heat amid a sharp rise in demand for OTT content and success in terms of ROI of the total budget and gross collections, Buolo suggests makers experiment with new-age marketing styles, audiences be exposed to a wider quality of content (sans any geographical limitations) and a general overhaul of cinema everywhere. Here are the excerpts of our exclusive conversation as Buolo Ren attended FICCI Frames 2023 in India: WION: India and China have a similar cultural heritage. Both countries love their homegrown films and are passionate about watching them too, churning out an exaggerated number of films annually. What kind of changes have you witnessed in our industries in the post-pandemic world? Buolo Ren: The film industries of both India and China have undergone significant changes post-pandemic. With the closure of theatres and restrictions on shooting, the focus shifted toward the digital platform. Both industries have witnessed a surge in the production of web series, short films, and documentaries, with many of them released on OTT platforms like Netflix, Amazon Prime, and Hotstar in India and similarly iQiyi, Tencent, Youku Tudou, Mango TV in China. Additionally, the pandemic has led to a change in the content of the movies and shows produced in these countries, with many of them focusing on socially relevant topics. The pandemic has led to a significant shift in our viewing habits. OTT platforms have seen a significant increase in their user base, and people have started preferring to watch movies and shows from the comfort of their homes. WION: What does that mean for cinema? Buolo Ren: OTT platforms have significantly changed the way people view cinema. With the availability of a vast library of movies and shows, people now have the option to choose from a variety of content. The traditional theatrical release of movies is no longer the only way to reach audiences, and many movies and shows are now released directly on OTT platforms. Cinema is no longer just a theatrical experience. WION: What about changes in filmmaking techniques? Buolo Ren: The closure of theatres and restrictions on shooting led to a halt in the production of movies and shows. Filmmakers have had to adapt to the changing scenario and come up with innovative ways to reach their audiences. Many filmmakers have started exploring the potential of virtual production techniques to shoot their movies and shows. Additionally, the pandemic has led to a change in the way movies and shows are promoted, with digital marketing becoming the primary mode of promotion. WION: Will theatres survive this shift? Buolo Ren: Surely there is a decrease in the number of people going to theatres but to tackle this change, many theatre chains are now partnering with OTT platforms to provide their users with an enhanced viewing experience. Some theatre chains have started providing their customers with the option to watch movies and shows directly on their websites. Additionally, some theatre chains have started offering personalised viewing experiences to their customers, such as private screenings for small groups of people. The industry is also exploring the potential of virtual cinema to provide its customers with an immersive viewing experience. Overall, the industry is adapting to the changing scenario and coming up with innovative ways to provide its customers with the best viewing experience possible. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Interview | Leading film distributor in China on how cinema has changed post pandemic

India women's hockey team is set to face Australia in a three-match series, in Adelaide, which kicks off on May 18. The Savita Punia-led Women in Blue will take on the Aussies in three games, on May 18, 20, and 21 followed by two against&nbsp;Australia 'A' on May 25 and May 27. Mate Stadium in Adelaide will host all the games, which will be crucial to India's preparations for the&nbsp;Hangzhou Asian Games 2023.

After their historic fourth-place finish in the Tokyo Olympics, the Indian women's team could not do anything significant in last year's Hockey World Cup. In the mega event, held in the Netherlands, India finished in the ninth spot with a solitary win, three draws and two defeats. Ahead of their tour Down Under, Indian striker Vandana Katariya --&nbsp;who has more than 250 International Caps -- will spearhead India's forward line in Australia. Ahead of the tour opener, Wion's Aditya Sahay spoke exclusively with Vandana on Team India's preparations, how to deal with pressure, learnings from the World Cup campaign and more.

How are the girls preparing for the Australia tour to tackle the different conditions and an experienced Aussie side?

We are preparing really well. Our&nbsp;sessions -- hard, red and green -- have been well planned.&nbsp;We are treating them as competition days. The tour of Australia is really important ahead of this year's Asian Games. We are practising with regard to exactly what we plan to do in Australia.

Learning from WC campaign and how to deal with big-stage pressure?

We ended ninth in the Women's World Cup last year. We ended with a lot of drawn encounters. There is always pressure but we have to ensure we do not get bogged down by it. There will always be pressure at the highest level. We have to use it in a good way. We need to be positive. We also need to learn from our experiences and mistakes, take some time when the going gets tough, and try to be in a calm state&nbsp;to perform better. Whatever mistakes we made in the World Cup, we need to rectify them during the Australian tour.&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wtc-final-wouldve-selected-yashasvi-jaiswal-as-rahuls-replacement-michael-vaughans-big-remark-591661">WTC Final: ‘Would’ve selected Yashasvi Jaiswal as Rahul’s replacement’ - Michael Vaughan's big remark</a>

Vandana has always excelled at the big stage. She was among the goal-scorers&nbsp;in last year's WC. In addition, she became India's first woman with an Olympic hat-trick during Tokyo 2020. Thus, she surely knows how to deliver in mega-events.

How important is it to understand when to defend, and when to attack?

We need to always be on the move. We need to have more control of the ball and maintain lead in most times. We have improved on double transfer, counter control, etc. Every player is eager to improve in all aspects. We have a lot of speed and agility in our team so we need to make the most of our squad going forward. Whether we defend or attack, we do it collectively and need to keep repeating the same basics we need to tick.&nbsp;

Any message for youngsters and aspiring players?

I just want to say that first, we need to be comfortable with the team, be it a youngster or a senior. We need to gel first and build confidence as a side. If we are on the attack, we should not waste it and ensure we convert it into a goal. These are some aspects we have improved upon and we can continue to reap benefits out of it.

Indian Team for Australia tour:&nbsp;Savita (C), Bichu Devi Kharibam, Deep Grace Ekka (VC), Nikki Pradhan, Ishika Chaudhary, Udita, Gurjit Kaur, Nisha, Navjot Kaur, Monika, Salima Tete, Neha, Navneet Kaur, Sonika, Jyoti, Baljeet Kaur, Lalremsiami, Vandana Katariya, Sangita Kumari, Sharmila Devi.

India women's hockey team is set to face Australia in a three-match series, in Adelaide, which kicks off on May 18. The Savita Punia-led Women in Blue will take on the Aussies in three games, on May 18, 20, and 21 followed by two against Australia 'A' on May 25 and May 27.

India women's hockey team is set to face Australia in a three-match series, in Adelaide, which kicks off on May 18. The Savita Punia-led Women in Blue will take on the Aussies in three games, on May 18, 20, and 21 followed by two against Australia 'A' on May 25 and May 27. Mate Stadium in Adelaide will host all the games, which will be crucial to India's preparations for the Hangzhou Asian Games 2023. After their historic fourth-place finish in the Tokyo Olympics, the Indian women's team could not do anything significant in last year's Hockey World Cup. In the mega event, held in the Netherlands, India finished in the ninth spot with a solitary win, three draws and two defeats. Ahead of their tour Down Under, Indian striker Vandana Katariya -- who has more than 250 International Caps -- will spearhead India's forward line in Australia. Ahead of the tour opener, Wion's Aditya Sahay spoke exclusively with Vandana on Team India's preparations, how to deal with pressure, learnings from the World Cup campaign and more. How are the girls preparing for the Australia tour to tackle the different conditions and an experienced Aussie side? We are preparing really well. Our sessions -- hard, red and green -- have been well planned. We are treating them as competition days. The tour of Australia is really important ahead of this year's Asian Games. We are practising with regard to exactly what we plan to do in Australia. Learning from WC campaign and how to deal with big-stage pressure? We ended ninth in the Women's World Cup last year. We ended with a lot of drawn encounters. There is always pressure but we have to ensure we do not get bogged down by it. There will always be pressure at the highest level. We have to use it in a good way. We need to be positive. We also need to learn from our experiences and mistakes, take some time when the going gets tough, and try to be in a calm state to perform better. Whatever mistakes we made in the World Cup, we need to rectify them during the Australian tour. Also Read: WTC Final: ‘Would’ve selected Yashasvi Jaiswal as Rahul’s replacement’ - Michael Vaughan's big remark Vandana has always excelled at the big stage. She was among the goal-scorers in last year's WC. In addition, she became India's first woman with an Olympic hat-trick during Tokyo 2020. Thus, she surely knows how to deliver in mega-events. How important is it to understand when to defend, and when to attack? We need to always be on the move. We need to have more control of the ball and maintain lead in most times. We have improved on double transfer, counter control, etc. Every player is eager to improve in all aspects. We have a lot of speed and agility in our team so we need to make the most of our squad going forward. Whether we defend or attack, we do it collectively and need to keep repeating the same basics we need to tick. Any message for youngsters and aspiring players? I just want to say that first, we need to be comfortable with the team, be it a youngster or a senior. We need to gel first and build confidence as a side. If we are on the attack, we should not waste it and ensure we convert it into a goal. These are some aspects we have improved upon and we can continue to reap benefits out of it. Indian Team for Australia tour: Savita (C), Bichu Devi Kharibam, Deep Grace Ekka (VC), Nikki Pradhan, Ishika Chaudhary, Udita, Gurjit Kaur, Nisha, Navjot Kaur, Monika, Salima Tete, Neha, Navneet Kaur, Sonika, Jyoti, Baljeet Kaur, Lalremsiami, Vandana Katariya, Sangita Kumari, Sharmila Devi.

Exclusive: Australia tour will be beneficial ahead of Asian Games 2023, says India's striker Vandana Katariya

In an exclusive interview with WION's Sidhant Sibal, the Lithuanian Ambassador to India Diana Mickeviciene has termed China's ambassador to France's comments on the sovereignty of Baltic states as "unacceptable." She also added that China should not repeat the narrative of an aggressive nation.

Lithuania Ambassador to India Speaks Out: China Should Avoid Aggressive Narrative

Deepika Padukone's pictures with fans in Bhutan have gone viral on social media. Recently, the Bollywood actress took a break from her busy schedule in India and flew to Bhutan.

Deepika Padukone's pictures with fans in Bhutan have gone viral on social media. Recently, the Bollywood actress took a break from her busy schedule in India and flew to Bhutan. However, it's not clear whether her trip's objective is work or vacation. Deepika Padukone's fan pages on social media platforms have posted her selfie with a fan. She is dressed in black and has her hair tied in a messy bun. Another image posted across such fan pages has her in a classy brown co-ord set with a grey overcoat and black sunglasses. Deepika's pictures with a cafe's staff also surfaced on the internet. She might have visited the place in Bhutan, wearing a white turtleneck t-shirt. However, she has only clicked solo pictures with her fans, showing that neither her husband, Ranveer Singh, nor any other family member has not accompanied her during the trip. DP's fans are always excited about her new projects. Her pictures from Bhutan intrigued people on Instagram and Twitter. In the comment section, a fan asked, "What's cooking in Bhutan?" Her fans wonder whether she is shooting for a new movie in the Buddhist kingdom. Another fan addressed her love for turtlenecks. Ranveer's absence had fans thinking that she might not be on vacation. ALSO READ | Real-life hero! Arjun Kapoor promises to sponsor 11-year-old girl cricketer's entire equipment cost Where was Deepika Padukone last spotted? Before Deepika Padukone flew to Bhutan, she attended the Nita Mukesh Ambani Cultural Centre (NMACC)'s grand opening ceremony in Mumbai with Ranveer Singh. She spoke to Anusha Dandekar and praised the musical stage show at the cultural centre. She said, "It was truly world-class. It is something we never experienced before. There were so many moments we teared up and many moments when we had goosebumps. We just had our minds blown." Recently, a video from an old roundtable interview with Anupama Chopra is going viral. In the video, Deepika Padukone jokingly tells Kangana Ranaut, "Maybe you're not that funny." WATCH | Indian Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman STRONGLY CONDEMS the western perception of India Deepika Padukone's upcoming projects Deepika stole the limelight as she presented at the 95th Academy Awards in Los Angeles. She stole everyone's hearts with her off-shoulder Louis Vitton black gown styled with diamond jewels. Padukone's first performance of the year, in the blockbuster movie Pathaan, was met with praise and love. The actress is also busy with her self-care brand, 82°E, which she launched in November 2022. Her upcoming projects include Siddharth Anand's Fighter starring Hrithik Roshan. She will also be seen in Project K alongside Prabhas. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Deepika Padukone spotted taking selfies with people in Bhutan; Fans ask 'What's cooking?'

Sri Lanka's foreign minister Ali Sabry has lauded Indian support amid the economic crisis his country went through. Speaking to our diplomatic correspondent Siddhant Sibbal, he said, "India took the lead.." calling the country a "friend". During the extensive interview, he also spoke about the impact of Russia Ukraine conflict on his country, ties with China, US and Japan.

Sri Lanka Foreign Minister Ali Sabry in a conversation with WION on India ties, Economic situation

Jan Lipavský, foreign minister of Czech Republic has highlighted his country's readiness to cooperate with India, particularly in the areas of research, innovation, and the automotive industry. He also emphasized the need for direct flights between Prague and India, given the significant reduction in Indian tourists visiting the Czech Republic due to the pandemic.

Czech foreign minister Jan Lipavský speaks to WION on Russia-Ukraine conflict, aggressive China

Following similar moves by the United states and EU, Canada has banned TikTok from government-issued devices and mobile phones. Seth Schachner, Managing Director of Strat Americas joins us to discuss the practical implications of this.

Is the clock ticking on TikTok?

Even after an year, the canvas of the Russia- Ukraine war is expanding dangerously. European Unions Ambassador to India Ugo Astuto and Ukranian Envoy Ivan Konovalov speaks to WION over Russia-Ukraine War.

EU Ambassador & Ukraine top diplomat speak to Wion on 1-year of Russia-Ukraine conflict

Months after being stabbed repeatedly as he prepared to give a lecture, Salman Rushdie is blind in his right eye, struggles to write and, at times, has “frightening” nightmares.

Salman Rushdie's first interview since 2022 stabbing

India is gearing up for the Union Budget. Indian Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman has tabled the annual economic survey which is a report card for the centre to review how the economy has fared in the past year. Watch anchor Vikram Chandra in a conversation with Anshuman Magazine as they talk more about the Union Budget 2023-24.

Anshuman Magazine, Chairman & CEO -India, South East Asia, Middle East & Africa, CBRE speaks to WION

India is gearing up for the Union Budget. Indian Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman has tabled the annual economic survey which is a report card for the centre to review how the economy has fared in the past year. Watch anchor Vikram Chandra in a conversation with Dr. Jessica Seddon as they talk more about the Union Budget 2023-24.

Union Budget 2023: Dr. Jessica Seddon, Senior Fellow, Air Quality, at WRI speaks to WION

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