Mumbai. On August 17, 2026, the LITTLE SHORT FILMS FESTIVAL 2026 was held at IMPPA, Andheri West, Mumbai. Artists and technical talent from short films, web series, music albums, television, and cinema were honored in various categories at the festival.
The festival was organized under the guidance of MOVIE CREATORS (Krishan K. Sharma), Co-Founder of ATPATI FILMS (Dharam Deo Ray), and Director (M. R. Khan). The event aimed to provide a platform to new artists and filmmakers and honor their talent.
The festival featured a special mention of “Sab Kuch Paaya… Kuch Haath Na Aaya,” and the team behind the web series “Sab Kuch Paaya… Kuch Haath Na Aaya – Kaagzon Me Maut” was a special attraction.
MR Khan – Best Director
MK Rajput – Best Producer
MK Films & Television Production – Best Production House.
In addition, (Aayra) (Sana Khan) (Aliya Khan) (Shalu Singh) (Anshu) & (Mahi Khan) were jointly honored with Best Actress awards, and (Kunal Singh Rajput) (Param Sharma) (Manavvar Mansuri) & (Parag) were honored with Best Actor awards.
Hardev Singh – Best Writer, Akeel & Deepak – Best DOP, Sameer Khan – Best Makeup, Ajay Kumar and Sandeep – Best Character Actor, Savita – Best Negative Actor, and Nand Lal – Best Controller.
The story and presentation of “Sab Kuch Paya… Kuch Haath Na Aaya” forced the audience to reflect on why, despite achieving so much in life, people sometimes end up empty-handed.
Special Appreciation for Director M R Khan
Director M R Khan’s direction was also particularly highlighted at the festival. In “Sab Kuch Paya… Kuch Haath Na Aaya – Kagzon Mein Maut,” he effectively integrated the story, cast, and technical team to create an effective project.
His directorial style displayed a good balance of suspense, emotion, and entertainment.
The Best Director award was a special recognition of his direction, hard work, and creative thinking.
Many talents honored by Raza Murad, Krishan K Sharma and Dharam Deo Ray:
The festival honored numerous artists, directors, and producers, including Raza Murad, A. J. Sunil, Aliya Khan, Rashmi Gurbani, Mahi Khan, Shalu Singh, Anshu Shaikh, Aanhansh Kumar, Pallabi Debnath, Rajni Mehta, Atul Rajkule (Best Director), Shirin Farid, Sanjay Patil, Shagufta Ali, Ishwar Chitte (Best Artist), Sumona Ghosh, Sahil Shaikh, Manavvar Mansuri, Parag, Suraj Shetty, Dan Singh Rajput (Best Director), Julee Jasmin, Roshan Raj Pasha (Best Director), Raju S. Goyal (Best Director), and Ishwar M. Parmar.
Many other talents received awards in the technical field, including Anil Gupta for Best Editor and Faishal for Best Music Director.
The LITTLE SHORT FILMS FESTIVAL 2026 sent the message that cinematic talent isn’t limited to the big screen. Artists from short films, web series, music videos, and independent cinema can also reach new heights if they receive the right platform and recognition.
This evening of the festival was dedicated to artists, filmmakers, and technical talent.
LITTLE SHORT FILMS FESTIVAL 2026 – A Grand Celebration Of Cinematic Talents
A mobile-first storytelling platform set to bring Indian folklore, mythology, regional legends and contemporary drama together for a new generation of viewers.
New Delhi, India: In an era where audiences are increasingly discovering entertainment through their mobile screens, THE DRAMA LOK is preparing to enter the digital entertainment space with a distinctive vision: to build a modern storytelling universe inspired by the cultural soul of India.
Conceived as a mobile-first, short-form entertainment platform, THE DRAMA LOK aims to bring together Indian folklore, mythology, regional legends, folk mysteries, romance, historical narratives and contemporary drama in an engaging, cinematic and episodic format designed for today’s digital audience.
At the heart of the platform is a simple belief:
“India has never lacked stories—it needs new ways to tell them.”
The platform’s original content vision will also extend beyond adaptations. THE DRAMA LOK plans to develop a slate of original IP inspired by India’s folk imagination, including supernatural thrillers, folk-horror mysteries, romantic legends and fantasy adventures.
Original concepts currently being developed for the storytelling universe include the flagship fantasy concept, “The Last Folklore Keeper,” a story built around a world where forgotten Indian folk tales begin to come alive.
Every region of India has stories that have travelled through generations—through songs, theatre, oral traditions, families and communities. THE DRAMA LOK is our attempt to bring that incredible storytelling heritage into a contemporary entertainment format without losing its soul,” said the team behind THE DRAMA LOK.
The platform will explore a broad range of content categories, including:
LOK KATHA
Traditional folklore and legends
LOK RAHASYA
Folk horror, supernatural mysteries and thrillers
LOK PREM
Timeless romances and emotional stories
LOK VEER
Folk heroes, warriors and legends of courage
LOK DEV
Mythology, mysticism and spiritual narratives
LOK AAJ
Contemporary stories inspired by the emotions and conflicts of modern India
With an initial focus on short episodic and mobile-native storytelling, THE DRAMA LOK intends to create stories structured around strong characters, emotional hooks and high-engagement cliffhangers. The content strategy is designed to appeal to a digital-first audience while also drawing on the multi-generational familiarity and emotional connection associated with India’s cultural storytelling traditions.
THE DRAMA LOK also envisions a strong regional storytelling strategy, gradually exploring folklore and original stories from different parts of the country, including Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, Punjab, Haryana, Rajasthan, Bengal, Maharashtra, Gujarat, South India and the Northeast.
Rather than positioning these stories simply by language, the platform aims to build distinct regional storytelling worlds rooted in local culture, music, landscapes, characters and oral traditions.
The larger ambition is to build an Indian Story IP ecosystem, where successful properties can potentially evolve across multiple formats—from mobile-first drama and long-form series to audio storytelling, music, publishing, licensing and other entertainment extensions.
“We don’t see ourselves as simply creating a content library. Our focus is on creating stories, characters and worlds that audiences can connect with and return to,” the team added. “Our long-term vision is to build a storytelling universe where India’s cultural memory and contemporary creativity can exist together.”
THE DRAMA LOK’s brand identity reflects this philosophy through a visual language inspired by theatre, heritage, mystery and emotion, combining dark cinematic tones with antique gold, deep red and symbolic Indian design elements.
With the tagline:
炬楷勘均砍 楷浚 诀坎骏 炬砍
THE DRAMA LOK represents a new approach to Indian digital entertainment—one where forgotten legends can find new audiences, regional stories can travel beyond geographical boundaries and contemporary stories can coexist with the timeless narratives that have shaped generations.
THE DRAMA LOK
炬楷勘均砍 楷浚 诀坎骏 炬砍
Stories from the soul of India.
THE DRAMA COMPANY ने भारत की कहानियों, लोककथाओं और आधुनिक ड्रामा के लिए एक नए डिजिटल मंच का विज़न प्रस्तुत किया
एक मोबाइल-फर्स्ट स्टोरीटेलिंग प्लेटफॉर्म, जो भारतीय लोककथाओं, पौराणिक कथाओं, क्षेत्रीय किंवदंतियों और समकालीन ड्रामा को नई पीढ़ी के दर्शकों तक पहुंचाने का लक्ष्य रखता है।
नई दिल्ली, भारत: ऐसे दौर में, जब दर्शक तेजी से अपने मोबाइल स्क्रीन पर मनोरंजन की दुनिया तलाश रहे हैं, THE DRAMA LOK एक विशिष्ट सोच और बड़े विज़न के साथ डिजिटल एंटरटेनमेंट की दुनिया में प्रवेश की तैयारी कर रहा है—एक ऐसा आधुनिक स्टोरीटेलिंग यूनिवर्स, जिसकी प्रेरणा भारत की सांस्कृतिक आत्मा से ली गई है।
मोबाइल-फर्स्ट और शॉर्ट-फॉर्म एंटरटेनमेंट प्लेटफॉर्म के रूप में तैयार किया जा रहा THE DRAMA LOK, भारतीय लोककथाओं, पौराणिक कथाओं, क्षेत्रीय किंवदंतियों, लोक रहस्यों, प्रेम कहानियों, ऐतिहासिक कथाओं और समकालीन ड्रामा को एक साथ लाने का लक्ष्य रखता है। इन कहानियों को आज के डिजिटल दर्शकों के लिए आकर्षक, सिनेमाई और एपिसोडिक फॉर्मेट में प्रस्तुत किया जाएगा।
प्लेटफॉर्म के पीछे एक सरल लेकिन मजबूत विश्वास है:
“भारत में कहानियों की कभी कमी नहीं रही—ज़रूरत सिर्फ उन्हें नए अंदाज़ में सुनाने की है।”
प्लेटफॉर्म की ओरिजिनल कंटेंट रणनीति केवल मौजूदा कहानियों के रूपांतरण तक सीमित नहीं होगी। THE DRAMA LOK भारत की समृद्ध लोक-कल्पना से प्रेरित ओरिजिनल आईपी विकसित करने की भी योजना बना रहा है, जिसमें सुपरनैचुरल थ्रिलर, फोक-हॉरर मिस्ट्री, रोमांटिक लीजेंड्स और फैंटेसी एडवेंचर्स शामिल होंगे।
इस स्टोरीटेलिंग यूनिवर्स के लिए वर्तमान में विकसित किए जा रहे ओरिजिनल कॉन्सेप्ट्स में प्रमुख फैंटेसी प्रोजेक्ट “The Last Folklore Keeper” भी शामिल है। यह एक ऐसी दुनिया की कहानी है, जहाँ भारत की भूली-बिसरी लोककथाएँ अचानक जीवित होने लगती हैं।
THE DRAMA COMPANY की टीम ने कहा, “भारत के हर क्षेत्र में ऐसी कहानियाँ हैं, जो पीढ़ियों से गीतों, रंगमंच, मौखिक परंपराओं, परिवारों और समुदायों के माध्यम से आगे बढ़ती रही हैं। THE DRAMA LOK के माध्यम से हमारा प्रयास है कि हम इस अद्भुत कहानी विरासत को उसकी आत्मा को बनाए रखते हुए एक आधुनिक मनोरंजन फॉर्मेट में नई पीढ़ी तक पहुंचाएं।”
प्लेटफॉर्म विभिन्न प्रकार की कंटेंट कैटेगरी को एक्सप्लोर करेगा, जिनमें शामिल हैं:
LOK KATHA — पारंपरिक लोककथाएँ और किंवदंतियाँ
LOK RAHASYA — लोक-हॉरर, अलौकिक रहस्य और थ्रिलर
LOK PREM — कालातीत प्रेम कहानियाँ और भावनात्मक कथाएँ
LOK VEER — लोक नायक, योद्धा और साहस की गाथाएँ
LOK DEV — पौराणिक कथाएँ, रहस्यवाद और आध्यात्मिक कहानियाँ
LOK AAJ — आधुनिक भारत की भावनाओं और संघर्षों से प्रेरित समकालीन कहानियाँ
शुरुआती चरण में THE DRAMA LOK का मुख्य फोकस शॉर्ट एपिसोडिक और मोबाइल-नेटिव स्टोरीटेलिंग पर होगा। कहानियों को मजबूत किरदारों, गहरे भावनात्मक जुड़ाव, प्रभावशाली हुक्स और हाई-एंगेजमेंट क्लिफहैंगर्स के साथ तैयार किया जाएगा।
इस कंटेंट रणनीति का उद्देश्य डिजिटल-फर्स्ट दर्शकों को आकर्षित करना है, साथ ही भारत की सांस्कृतिक कहानी परंपराओं से जुड़े बहु-पीढ़ीगत भावनात्मक जुड़ाव को भी नई पहचान देना है।
THE DRAMA LOK एक मजबूत रीजनल स्टोरीटेलिंग रणनीति की भी कल्पना करता है। आने वाले समय में प्लेटफॉर्म भारत के विभिन्न हिस्सों की लोककथाओं और ओरिजिनल कहानियों को एक्सप्लोर करेगा, जिनमें बिहार, उत्तर प्रदेश, पंजाब, हरियाणा, राजस्थान, बंगाल, महाराष्ट्र, गुजरात, दक्षिण भारत और पूर्वोत्तर भारत शामिल हैं।
इन कहानियों को केवल भाषा के आधार पर प्रस्तुत करने के बजाय, प्लेटफॉर्म का उद्देश्य स्थानीय संस्कृति, संगीत, भूगोल, किरदारों और मौखिक परंपराओं से प्रेरित अलग-अलग रीजनल स्टोरीटेलिंग वर्ल्ड्स तैयार करना है।
THE DRAMA LOK का बड़ा उद्देश्य एक मजबूत भारतीय स्टोरी आईपी इकोसिस्टम विकसित करना है, जहाँ सफल कहानियाँ और किरदार भविष्य में कई मनोरंजन फॉर्मेट्स में विस्तार पा सकें—जैसे मोबाइल-फर्स्ट ड्रामा, लॉन्ग-फॉर्म सीरीज़, ऑडियो स्टोरीटेलिंग, संगीत, पब्लिशिंग, लाइसेंसिंग और अन्य एंटरटेनमेंट एक्सटेंशंस।
टीम ने आगे कहा, “हम खुद को सिर्फ एक कंटेंट लाइब्रेरी बनाने वाली संस्था के रूप में नहीं देखते। हमारा फोकस ऐसी कहानियाँ, किरदार और दुनिया बनाने पर है, जिनसे दर्शक जुड़ सकें और जिनके पास वे बार-बार लौटना चाहें। हमारा दीर्घकालिक विज़न एक ऐसा स्टोरीटेलिंग यूनिवर्स बनाना है, जहाँ भारत की सांस्कृतिक स्मृति और आधुनिक रचनात्मकता एक साथ मौजूद हो सकें।”
THE DRAMA LOK की ब्रांड पहचान भी इसी सोच को दर्शाती है। इसकी विज़ुअल लैंग्वेज थिएटर, विरासत, रहस्य और भावनाओं से प्रेरित है, जिसमें डार्क सिनेमैटिक टोन, एंटीक गोल्ड, डीप रेड और भारतीय प्रतीकात्मक डिज़ाइन एलिमेंट्स का समावेश होगा।
टैगलाइन:
“कहानी हर दिल की”
THE DRAMA LOK भारतीय डिजिटल एंटरटेनमेंट के लिए एक नई सोच का प्रतिनिधित्व करता है—जहाँ भूली हुई किंवदंतियाँ नए दर्शकों तक पहुंच सकती हैं, क्षेत्रीय कहानियाँ भौगोलिक सीमाओं से आगे बढ़ सकती हैं और आधुनिक कहानियाँ उन कालातीत कथाओं के साथ मौजूद रह सकती हैं, जिन्होंने पीढ़ियों को प्रभावित किया है।
Is the film’s Naxal-affected backdrop overshadowing what is essentially a love story?
Mumbai: Shantanu Maheshwari and Rinku Rajguru starrer Sahiya, directed by Sanjay Sharma, continues to await its CBFC certificate even after its preview. The film, set against the backdrop of the forests of Jharkhand and a Naxal-affected region, has now sparked curiosity over whether its sensitive setting is playing a role in the prolonged certification process.
However, there is no official confirmation that the film has been denied certification or that any objection has been raised specifically over its Naxal-related backdrop. The film is currently awaiting certification, leaving its makers and the team looking forward to clarity on its release journey.
Interestingly, the makers insist that Sahiya should not be viewed merely as a film about Naxalism. At its core, the film is presented as a love story about two individuals whose relationship develops amid a difficult and conflict-affected environment.
A Love Story Set In The Jungle
Directed by Sanjay Sharma, Sahiya uses the forests and remote landscape of Jharkhand as an important part of its storytelling. The presence of police, conflict and a Naxal-affected environment forms the backdrop of the narrative, but the emotional centre of the film remains its characters and their relationship.
The film explores how love and human emotions survive when circumstances are far from ordinary.
Is The ‘Naxal Film’ Tag Becoming A Problem?
The certification wait has also raised a larger question within film circles — whether films set against sensitive political or conflict-related backgrounds are sometimes viewed primarily through their subject matter rather than their larger narrative.
In the case of Sahiya, the makers believe that looking at the film only through the prism of Naxalism could potentially overlook its emotional core.
The jungle, according to the film’s premise, is not merely a space associated with conflict. It is also the setting where the protagonists meet, understand each other and develop a relationship.
Real Jharkhand Locations
The film was shot in and around Netarhat and other real locations in Jharkhand, giving the story an authentic visual setting. Rather than recreating the environment, the team chose real landscapes to bring the world of the characters closer to reality.
For first-time feature director Sanjay Sharma, the challenge has been to tell a personal and emotional story within a complex social environment.
Certification Wait Adds To Anticipation
With Sahiya still awaiting its CBFC certificate after the preview, the film’s certification journey has become a talking point ahead of its eventual release.
For now, it would be premature to conclude that the film has faced censorship specifically because of its Naxal-affected setting. The official certification process is still underway.
What remains interesting, however, is whether Sahiya will ultimately be discussed as a film about Naxalism — or recognised for what its makers say lies at its heart: a love story born in the middle of a troubled landscape.
As the film waits for certification, the question surrounding Sahiya is increasingly becoming one of perspective — is it a Naxal story with a love angle, or a love story set against a Naxal-affected backdrop?
Shantanu Maheshwari–Rinku Rajguru Starrer ‘Sahiya’ Still Awaits CBFC Certificate After Preview
Mr. Hitesh Nihalani, Partner at Crown Construction Company and N K Builders & Developers, celebrates more than two decades of leadership in Mumbai’s construction and real estate sector.
With over 20 years of hands-on experience, Mr. Hitesh Nihalani has played a pivotal role in shaping residential developments across the city. Under his stewardship, both Crown Construction Company and N K Builders & Developers have built a reputation for quality construction, on-time delivery, and transparent business practices.
“Real estate is about more than buildings. It’s about trust,” is his belief. “For 20 years, our focus has been on creating durable, well-designed spaces and maintaining long-term relationships with our clients, partners, and communities.”
Known for combining traditional construction values with modern design and compliance standards, Mr. Hitesh Nihalani has guided his companies through multiple market cycles while adapting to new materials, technologies, and buyer expectations. His projects are recognized for efficient space planning, structural integrity, and customer-centric execution.
As Mumbai continues to grow, Crown Construction Company and N K Builders & Developers remain committed to delivering projects that balance quality, affordability, and sustainability. Mr. Nihalani continues to lead the firms with a vision to build not just structures, but communities people are proud to be part of.
About Crown Construction Company & N K Builders & Developers
Crown Construction Company and N K Builders & Developers are Mumbai-based real estate and construction firms specializing in residential and commercial development.
With a legacy of 35+ years, the companies focus on quality, timely delivery, and ethical business practices.
Mr. Hitesh Nihalani Marks 20+ Years With Crown Construction And N K Builders & Developers
Five Contemporary Renowned artists – Ajey Dalvi, Kavita Salunke, Deepak Thopate, Dr. Tanaji Awaghade, & Surendra Kudapane.
VENUE:
Jehangir Art Gallery
Auditorium Hall
M.G. Road, Kala Ghoda,
Mumbai 400001
Timing: 11am to 7pm
Contact: +91 98 81 23 24 25
THE SIXTH SENSE
A Group Exhibition of Paintings & Sculpture
The Sixth Sense brings together five distinctive artistic journeys—Ajey Dalvi, Kavita Salunke, Deepak Thopate, Dr. Tanaji Awaghade, and Surendra Kudapane. The exhibition explores the intuitive connection between art, emotion, perception, and inner vision.
Through colour, form, texture, geometry, sculpture, and landscape, each artist presents a unique perspective of the world. From Dalvi’s expressive colours and emotions, Awaghade’s spiritual geometric compositions, Thopate’s expressive sculptures, Kudapane’s layered abstraction, to Salunke’s evocative landscapes shaped by memory and place, every work reflects an individual artistic voice. The Sixth Sense celebrates creativity beyond words and invites viewers to experience art through intuition and feeling.
AJEY DALVI
Ajey Dalvi is a Kolhapur-based painter whose artistic practice explores change, transformation and innovation through colour. His work emerges from an interplay between the conscious and subconscious mind, where emotions find their unique language through vibrant and layered compositions. Dalvi considers colour the “God particle”, a fundamental element capable of evoking and releasing moments of happiness. His paintings bring together transparent and opaque layers of colour, creating depth, movement and emotional resonance. Through this dynamic approach, colour becomes more than a visual element—it becomes a medium of emotion, inner experience and transformation, inviting viewers to connect with their own intuitive and emotional responses.
KAVITA SALUNKE
Pune-based artist Kavita Salunke explores landscape, memory, atmosphere and emotion through expressive paintings and evocative abstractions. Her work draws inspiration from coastal settlements, urban spaces, architecture, textures and open landscapes, transforming everyday observations into deeply personal visual experiences. Through layered textures, nuanced colour palettes and dynamic compositions, she captures not only the physical character of a place but also its mood, memories and emotional resonance. Themes of movement, transition and belonging remain central to her practice. Her paintings move beyond representation, creating a space where observation meets imagination and emotion, inviting viewers to discover beauty and stories within the familiar.
DEEPAK THOPATE
Sculptor Deepak Dinkar Thopate is a leading contemporary sculptor from Maharashtra, known for his realistic approach, technical precision and exceptional craftsmanship. A Sculpture graduate of Sir J. J. School of Art, Mumbai, his practice reflects a deep understanding of form, proportion, anatomy and aesthetics. He has created public monuments, sculptures of eminent personalities and diverse sculptural compositions, combining creative expression with technical mastery. His works have been exhibited at Jehangir Art Gallery, Mumbai, and several state and national exhibitions. A recipient of the Maharashtra State Award, Thopate’s sculptures reveal expressive character, refined sensitivity and artistic excellence, establishing a distinctive identity in contemporary Indian sculpture.
TANAJI AWAGHADE
Dr. Tanaji Awaghade’s artistic practice is deeply rooted in spirituality, symbolism and sacred geometry. For over 25 years, he has explored the Shri Yantra on canvas, using geometric forms and intricate patterns to express the harmonious connection between all existence. His paintings engage with concepts of chakras, meditation, positive energy and the relationship between the subtle and the macrocosm. Inspired by the sacred geometry of temples and his belief in a divine universal force, Awaghade transforms geometry into a language of spiritual experience. His works invite viewers to look beyond the fragmented material world and connect with inner light, consciousness and universal harmony.
Surendra Kudapane
Surendra Kudapane is a distinguished contemporary Indian painter and sculptor whose work explores the relationship between nature, human emotions and the subconscious. His distinctive visual language blends realism and abstraction, using balanced colour harmonies, transparent layers, expressive textures and geometric structures to create a sense of serenity, harmony and introspection. A Gold Medalist with academic training from Abhinav Kala Mahavidyalaya, Pune, Sir J. J. School of Art, Mumbai, and S.B. University of Fine Arts, Karnataka, he has received several State and National honours. With 20+ solo and 125+ group exhibitions, his works are held in public, corporate and private collections in India and abroad.
This show was inaugurated on 18th August 2026 by Hon. Guests – Mr.Shankar Jadhav, Ex. MD – BSE Investments, Nidhi Chaudhari IAS & Director of NGMA, Mr.Rohit Pawar Member of Legislative Assembly, Dr. Kishor Ingle, Director, Directorate of Art, Maharashtra,, Advocate Chitra Mete, Arts & Culture among others.
“The Sixth Sense” Paintings & Sculpture Exhibition By 5 Contemporary Renowned Artists In Jehangir Art Gallery
~Top 10 organised burger chains grow from 1,481 outlets in 2023 to 2,018 in 2026, reflecting a 10.9% CAGR~
India’s organised burger Quick Service Restaurant (QSR) segment is entering its next phase of expansion, with leading brands increasingly moving beyond established metropolitan markets and deepening their presence across Tier II and Tier III India, according to QSR Watch – Edition II, the latest report released by Kennis Ventures Private Limited.
The report, which tracks the physical retail footprint of India’s top 10 organised burger chains, finds that their combined store network has increased from 1,481 outlets in 2023 to 2,018 outlets as of March 2026, representing a 10.9% compound annual growth rate (CAGR) over the period. According to industry estimates referenced in the study, India’s QSR industry is valued at approximately USD 30 billion in 2026, with the organised burger segment estimated at over USD 5 billion, reflecting a category that is growing both in scale and competitive intensity.
Of the top 10 chains covered in the study, McDonald’s and Burger King are the only two global brands and together account for 1,246 outlets, or 61.7% of the total footprint. McDonald’s remains the largest burger chain in India by outlet count, with 676 stores across 136 cities, while Burger King has the widest geographic presence, with 570 stores across 159 cities. At the same time, home-grown players are building meaningful scale, with the eight Indian-founded brands collectively operating 772 outlets, representing 38.3% of the top 10 network. Jumboking ranks third nationally with 172 outlets, followed by Burger Singh with 161, Biggies Burger with 113 and The Burger Company with 100 outlets.
Commenting on the findings, Saurabh Agarwal, Managing Director, Kennis Ventures Private Limited, said, “India’s burger QSR market is moving from being predominantly a metro-led category to becoming a much more geographically distributed consumer opportunity. While global players continue to command significant scale, the emergence of multiple Indian brands with meaningful regional and national footprints points to a deeper evolution of the category. The next phase of growth is likely to be shaped as much by expansion into underserved cities as by competition within established urban markets.”
The geographical spread of the category also points to a broader shift in growth momentum. North India remains the largest market with 837 stores, followed by West India with 624, South India with 438 and East India with 119. However, newer growth markets are expanding faster: between 2023 and 2026, South India grew 80.2% from 243 to 438 stores, while East India more than doubled from 59 to 119 stores, albeit from a smaller base. North and West India also continued to expand, growing 48.4% and 39.6%, respectively. Despite its rapid growth, East India remains the least penetrated region, highlighting significant headroom for further expansion.
A similar trend is visible across major cities. Delhi NCR remains the country’s largest urban hub with 364 stores, followed by Mumbai Metropolitan Region (MMR) with 288, Bengaluru with 181, Pune with 100 and Hyderabad with 74. While Delhi NCR and MMR retain the largest store bases, Bengaluru and Pune are growing significantly faster, recording 53.4% and 56.3% growth respectively since 2023, while Hyderabad expanded by 32.1%.
Tier II and Tier III India Emerge as the Next Growth Frontier
Beyond the major metros, the report highlights an increasing push by organised burger chains into smaller and previously underserved markets. Burger King has expanded into cities such as Itanagar, Dimapur and Shillong, Burger Singh has established a presence in Ayodhya and Jhansi, while The Burger Company has penetrated markets such as Azamgarh, Hathras, Mau and Banda.
This widening geographic footprint signals a structural shift in the category as organised burger consumption becomes increasingly distributed beyond India’s traditional QSR hubs.
“The expansion story is no longer simply about adding more stores in Delhi, Mumbai or Bengaluru. Increasingly, the opportunity lies in identifying cities where rising purchasing power, younger consumer demographics and greater acceptance of organised QSR formats can support the next generation of outlets. For brands as well as investors, understanding these emerging geographic clusters will therefore become increasingly important,” added Agarwal.
India’s Top 10 Burger Chains Expand Footprint To Over 2,000 Outlets; Tier II & III Cities Emerge As Next Growth Frontier: Kennis Ventures
New Delhi: From corporate fraud and matrimonial disputes to missing-person cases and cybercrime, Snooop founder and investigation expert Deepak Kumar shared key insights into the world of private investigation on Bharat Podcast. In a special conversation with Bharat Podcast host Deepak Saraswat, he discussed corporate fraud, digital footprints, asset tracing and cyber investigations.
Responding to Deepak Saraswat’s questions about corporate fraud, Deepak Kumar claimed that nearly 59% of Indian companies have faced some form of corporate fraud. He cited a Greater Noida case in which an employee earning around Rs 15,000 per month allegedly embezzled nearly Rs 60 lakh within 18 months. According to him, financial transactions, documents and digital records can play a crucial role in investigating such cases.
Deepak Kumar also claimed that his team once traced the sister of a Delhi-based real estate developer within nearly 35 hours. He explained that investigators may use publicly available information, digital footprints and other lawful investigative techniques to connect potential leads, while respecting applicable laws and privacy rights.
Deepak Saraswat also questioned him about the role of private investigators in divorce and matrimonial disputes. Kumar explained that asset tracing may be used to gather information about assets and financial circumstances through lawful and publicly available records. According to him, some services at his company start at around Rs 25,000, while complex investigations may cost several lakh rupees.
Discussing cybercrime and UPI fraud, Deepak Kumar stressed that quick reporting is crucial after a digital fraud incident. He advised people to avoid suspicious applications, be careful while sharing personal information and keep their devices and security features updated. Victims of cyber fraud should immediately contact their bank and the official cybercrime reporting authorities.
The conversation between Bharat Podcast host Deepak Saraswat and investigation expert Deepak Kumar highlighted several lesser-known aspects of modern private investigation. Kumar said technology has significantly transformed investigative methods, but compliance with the law, privacy protections and proper legal procedures remains essential.
Investigation Expert Deepak Kumar Reveals How Private Investigations Work On Bharat Podcast
Pune: Astrology expert Saurabh Sinha shared several interesting insights on astrology, numerology, palmistry and Vastu during a special conversation on Bharat Podcast. Speaking with Bharat Podcast host Deepak Saraswat, Sinha discussed marriage, horoscope matching, career choices, Vastu and various challenges people face in life.
During the podcast, Deepak Saraswat questioned Saurabh Sinha about the credibility of astrology, predictions, horoscope matching in marriage, Mangal Dosha, children’s careers and Vastu. Responding to these questions, Sinha said astrology should be viewed as a tool for guidance rather than a system that guarantees every future event. According to him, astrology may indicate possible circumstances, but it cannot guarantee that a particular event will happen.
Matching 36 Gunas Alone Is Not Enough
Speaking about marriage and horoscope matching, Saurabh Sinha said that the success of a marriage cannot be determined solely on the basis of 36 Gunas. According to him, other factors such as Gana, Bhakoot, Nadi and planetary positions should also be considered. He also discussed traditional remedies associated with Mangal Dosha and advised people to properly understand any astrological remedy before following it.
Sinha also cautioned people against those who use astrology to create fear or guarantee specific future events. He said the role of a responsible astrologer should be to help people understand situations and make better decisions rather than frighten them.
Vastu, Children’s Future and Career Discussed
During the conversation, Deepak Saraswat also raised questions about Vastu and its alleged influence on people’s lives. Saurabh Sinha explained several traditional Vastu beliefs related to the direction and structure of different areas of a house. However, such claims about the effects of Vastu have not been established by scientific evidence and are generally regarded as traditional beliefs.
On children’s future and career choices, Sinha said that birth details and naming are considered important in astrological traditions. However, he emphasized that career decisions should primarily be based on a child’s interests, abilities and education. He also stressed the importance of focusing on education and personality development during the early years.
Traditional Remedies for Debt and Life Problems
Responding to questions about financial difficulties and debt, Saurabh Sinha mentioned traditional practices such as serving and caring for animals. He also referred to practices involving salt that are traditionally believed to help during periods of persistent difficulties. Such remedies are based on religious and traditional beliefs, and there is no established scientific evidence proving their effectiveness.
Sinha also spoke about the importance of karma, saying that the results of good deeds may not always be immediately visible, but a person’s actions and behaviour continue to play an important role in life.
Astrology Should Guide, Not Create Fear
Saurabh Sinha also highlighted the responsibility of people working in the field of astrology. He said clients’ personal problems and information should remain confidential and that astrology should not be used merely as a means of earning money or exploiting people’s emotions and fears.
The special conversation between Bharat Podcast host Deepak Saraswat and astrology expert Saurabh Sinha covered a wide range of topics, including marriage, horoscope matching, predictions, Vastu, career and karma. According to Sinha, the purpose of astrology should not be to guarantee the future, but to offer guidance that may help people understand their circumstances and make better decisions.
Saurabh Sinha Reveals Insights On Astrology, Marriage, Career And Vastu On Bharat Podcast
Rajasthan: Aghori Gopal shared several intriguing insights into the mysterious world of Tantra, the Aghor tradition and Vashikaran during a special conversation on Bharat Podcast. Speaking with Bharat Podcast host Deepak Saraswat, he discussed beliefs and personal experiences related to Aghor practices, cremation-ground rituals, Karna Pishachini, mantra practices and Vashikaran.
During the podcast, host Deepak Saraswat questioned Aghori Gopal about the mysterious lifestyle of Aghoris, rituals performed at cremation grounds, the significance of applying sacred ash, Vashikaran and alleged supernatural powers. Responding to these questions, Gopal said that he grew up in an environment influenced by the Aghor tradition and had the guidance of an Aghori guru from an early age.
According to Aghori Gopal, entering the Aghor tradition is not easy. A practitioner is expected to rise above worldly attachments and fears and devote himself to spiritual practice and the worship of Lord Shiva. He described cremation grounds as an important place for certain practices within the Aghor tradition.
Speaking about Karna Pishachini Sadhana, Gopal described it as an extremely difficult and rare spiritual practice that, according to traditional beliefs, may take several years to master. He claimed that practitioners can gain knowledge about the past, present and future through this practice. However, there is no established scientific evidence supporting such supernatural claims.
The conversation also explored Vashikaran and Mohini Sadhana. Responding to questions from Deepak Saraswat, Aghori Gopal claimed that various forms of Vashikaran are described in tantric traditions. He also referred to some personal cases brought to him and claimed that he attempted to help people through the worship of Lord Shiva and tantric practices. Claims that Vashikaran can control or influence another person’s mind or behaviour have not been scientifically established.
Aghori Gopal also spoke about the tradition of applying ash, beliefs surrounding spirits and spiritual practices associated with cremation grounds. According to him, devotion to Lord Shiva lies at the heart of the Aghor tradition. He also emphasized the principle of karma and encouraged people to focus on good deeds and spiritual devotion.
The special conversation between Bharat Podcast host Deepak Saraswat and Aghori Gopal explored several lesser-known aspects of Tantra and the Aghor tradition. However, claims involving Vashikaran, communication with spirits, prediction of the future or other supernatural abilities are not supported by established scientific evidence and should therefore be approached with caution and critical judgment.
Aghori Gopal Reveals The Mysteries Of Tantra And Vashikaran On Bharat Podcast
