Thursday, August 21, 2025

Weekend-Ready Malls with Seasonal Events and Festivals

 

Shopping malls in India are no longer just about retail therapy and food courts—they have evolved into cultural and social hubs. On weekends, especially, malls come alive with seasonal events, themed festivals, live performances, and community celebrations. From Diwali melas and Christmas carnivals to fashion weeks and summer workshops, malls have mastered the art of turning ordinary weekends into extraordinary experiences.

If you’re someone who loves combining shopping with entertainment, here’s a guide to some of the best weekend-ready malls that host seasonal events and festivals across India.


1. Select Citywalk, New Delhi

Select Citywalk has built a reputation for curating some of the most memorable seasonal events in the capital. Its central courtyard often transforms into a cultural stage during weekends, hosting Diwali melas, Christmas carnivals, art exhibitions, and even yoga festivals. During the holiday season, the giant Christmas tree and light installations are crowd-pullers.

Why it’s special:

  • Frequent weekend flea markets with artisanal brands
  • Seasonal décor that transforms the shopping experience
  • Outdoor cultural events, concerts, and food festivals

2. DLF Mall of India, Noida

As one of the largest malls in India, DLF Mall of India is a hotspot for themed events. From Independence Day celebrations to summer kids’ workshops, the mall ensures there’s always something new on weekends. Its atrium often features fashion shows, art displays, and festive décor. Families flock here not just for shopping, but to soak in the lively atmosphere.

Why it’s special:

  • Huge atriums for large-scale seasonal festivals
  • Children-focused events like art and dance workshops
  • Diwali and Christmas carnivals with live performances

3. Phoenix Marketcity, Mumbai

Phoenix Marketcity is famous for its vibrant cultural calendar. On weekends, the mall regularly hosts live music gigs, fashion pop-ups, festive exhibitions, and holiday-themed installations. Christmas here feels like a winter wonderland, with massive décor, interactive zones, and live performances. During Diwali and Ganesh Chaturthi, the mall comes alive with traditional art displays and festive shopping carnivals.

Why it’s special:

  • Popular weekend music and fashion events
  • Large holiday-themed décor and interactive experiences
  • Seasonal food fests that attract diverse crowds

4. VR Bengaluru – The Black Box

VR Bengaluru is a community-driven space that blends shopping with cultural engagement. On weekends, the mall often organizes farmer’s markets, children’s festivals, book fairs, and art exhibitions. During Christmas and New Year, the rooftop is transformed into a carnival with live bands and themed parties. The mall also celebrates regional festivals like Ugadi with traditional décor and performances.

Why it’s special:

  • Strong community focus with cultural and regional events
  • Rooftop seasonal carnivals with music and food
  • Regular weekend markets showcasing local talent

5. Lulu Mall, Kochi

Being one of Asia’s largest malls, Lulu Mall knows how to draw crowds with seasonal festivities. Weekends often feature cultural programs, celebrity appearances, and live stage events. The Christmas and Onam celebrations here are legendary, featuring traditional performances, themed décor, and festive discounts. Families especially enjoy the weekend workshops and entertainment zones designed for kids.

Why it’s special:

  • Onam celebrations with traditional Kerala art and dance
  • Christmas décor that rivals international malls
  • Frequent weekend workshops for kids and families

6. Phoenix Marketcity, Chennai

Known for its dynamic cultural calendar, Phoenix Marketcity Chennai organizes weekend concerts, art festivals, and festive fairs. During Diwali and Pongal, the mall is decorated with traditional installations, rangolis, and live performances. Its sprawling outdoor area often serves as a stage for music festivals and weekend flea markets.

Why it’s special:

  • Outdoor concerts and live music on weekends
  • Traditional Pongal and Diwali cultural showcases
  • Food and art festivals hosted throughout the year

7. Forum Mall, Hyderabad

Forum Mall Hyderabad attracts weekend crowds with seasonal décor and family-friendly events. Its atrium often features exhibitions, book fairs, and festive markets. From Christmas carnivals with Santa meet-and-greets to Independence Day events, the mall knows how to keep weekends buzzing with excitement.

Why it’s special:

  • Family-friendly festive carnivals
  • Cultural activities for kids and teens
  • Regular seasonal markets and pop-ups

Why Seasonal Events Make Malls Weekend-Ready

  1. Cultural connection: Malls recreate traditional festivities like Diwali, Pongal, and Christmas, making urban shoppers feel connected to their roots.
  2. Entertainment factor: Live music, art, and cultural performances ensure there’s always more than just shopping.
  3. Community vibe: Farmers’ markets, book fairs, and art festivals turn malls into gathering spaces for locals.
  4. Memorable experiences: Seasonal décor and themed zones create Instagram-worthy moments that attract younger crowds.

Final Thoughts

Weekend-ready malls with seasonal events and festivals are redefining shopping culture in India. They offer a holistic experience where shopping meets culture, food, entertainment, and community engagement. Whether it’s Select Citywalk’s grand Christmas carnival, Phoenix Marketcity’s vibrant music festivals, or Lulu Mall’s Onam celebrations, these malls ensure that weekends are more than just about retail therapy—they’re about celebration and togetherness.

So, the next time you plan a weekend outing, pick a mall that promises not just shopping, but a seasonal experience you’ll remember.

 

Tuesday, July 29, 2025

ETV HRMS Registration & Login Guide

ETV HRMS is the Human Resource Management System used by ETV Network (a part of Ramoji Group), supporting thousands of employees across regional channels. This secure portal centralizes payroll, attendance, leave management, performance tracking, and HR communication in one user-friendly platform.


1. What Is ETV HRMS?

ETV HRMS is a centralized ESS (Employee Self-Service) platform designed to streamline HR operations including:

  • Payroll and payslip access
  • Leave applications and balances
  • Attendance tracking and shift logs
  • Profile updates (contact, bank, emergency)
  • Performance reviews and task assignment
  • Notifications, documents, and HR announcements

It serves employees across Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, and other regions where ETV operates.


2. Who Can Register?

  • Self-registration is not permitted.
  • Accounts are created by ETV HR or IT during onboarding.
  • New employees receive:
    • User ID (employee code or email)
    • Temporary password
    • The official HRMS portal link.

If you haven’t received credentials, contact your HR or IT support.


3. First-Time Login & Password Setup

After receiving credentials:

Step‑by‑Step Login:

  1. Navigate to the official ETV HRMS portal:
    https://etvhrms.com/webpis/Home.php.
  2. On the login screen, enter your User ID and temporary password, then click “Login” or “Submit”.
  3. On your first login, you may be prompted to change your password according to policy.
  4. Optionally, configure security questions or multi-factor authentication if prompted.

4. Resetting Forgot Password

If you forget your password:

  • Click “Forgot Password?” on the login screen.
  • Enter your employee code and the registered mobile number, then click “Submit”.
  • Enter the OTP received on your mobile and set a new password.
  • Once confirmed, use the new password to log in normally.

For unresolved issues, reach out to HR or IT support.


5. Exploring the Dashboard

Once logged in, the ETV HRMS dashboard typically features:

  • Payroll & Salary: Download monthly payslips, annual tax documents, PF contributions.
  • Leave Module: Apply for and monitor casual, earned, and medical leave. See balances and status.
  • Attendance/Timesheet: View punch-in/out logs, shifts, and leave days.
  • Personal Profile: Edit contact info, bank details, and emergency contacts.
  • Performance & Tasks: View appraisal feedback, task assignments, and milestones (as enabled).
  • Messages & Docs: Access HR policies, announcements, and official documents.

6. Troubleshooting Common Issues

  • No credentials?
    Confirm with HR or IT for onboarding account creation.
  • Password reset issues?
    Use the online reset function or escalate to HR/IT.
  • Account locked?
    Usually due to failed attempts; contact HR for unlocking.
  • Portal is slow or unresponsive?
    Clear browser cache, try a supported browser like Chrome or Firefox, or wait for non‑peak hours.
  • System downtime?
    Check with HR or IT for scheduled maintenance notifications.

7. Security Best Practices

  • Create a strong, unique password, blending uppercase, lowercase, digits, symbols.
  • Do not save passwords on shared or public computers.
  • Always log out properly, especially on shared devices.
  • Keep your personal and contact details up to date for recovery and alerts.
  • Immediately report suspicious activity (e.g. unknown logins or data changes) to HR or IT.

8. Quick Flow Summary

Step

Action

1

HR/admin registers and provides credentials

2

Visit portal at https://etvhrms.com/webpis/Home.php

3

Enter User ID and temporary password

4

Change password on first login

5

Use portal modules: payslip, leave, attendance, profile

6

For issues, use “Forgot Password” or contact support


9. Benefits of ETV HRMS

  • 24×7 Self-Service Access: Check salary, leave, performance anytime.
  • Paperless HR Transactions: Automates routine tasks and reduces manual paperwork.
  • Process Transparency: Track status of leave or performance approvals in real time.
  • Better Accuracy: Automated attendance and payroll reduce errors.
  • Increased Engagement: Quick access to information helps staff feel empowered and supported.

10. Final Tips for Smooth Experience

  • Use your official company email for HR communication and registration.
  • Monitor your inbox (and spam) for credential emails after onboarding.
  • Set up your account during business hours to get timely HR/IT help.
  • Note your login credentials and recovery info somewhere secure.
  • Familiarize yourself with recommended browsers and any timeouts.

By following this guide, ETV employees can smoothly register (via HR), access the HRMS portal, and confidently manage HR-related tasks. From payslips to attendance to leave, everything is now just a few clicks away.

Thank you for reading the ETV HRMS Registration and Login Guide on IndiasVibes—wishing you seamless access and a secure HR experience!

What is Income Tax Return (ITR)? A Beginner’s Guide

Paying income tax is a fundamental duty of every responsible citizen, and filing your Income Tax Return (ITR) is how you declare your earnings to the government. For many, especially first-time taxpayers, the concept of ITR can seem confusing. What exactly is it? Why is it important? How do you file it?

This beginner’s guide will help you understand the essentials of Income Tax Return —what it is, who should file it, why it matters, and how you can file it easily in India.

What is an Income Tax Return (ITR)?

An Income Tax Return (ITR) is a form filed with the Income Tax Department of India that declares your income, expenses, tax deductions, investments, and taxes paid during a financial year. Based on the information provided, the government calculates whether you’ve paid the correct amount of tax or need to pay more or receive a refund.

It is a self-declaration of your income from various sources—salary, business, rental income, capital gains, interest, and more.

Why Filing ITR is Important

Even if your income is below the taxable limit, filing an ITR has multiple benefits:

  1. Legal Compliance: Filing ITR is a legal obligation if your income exceeds the basic exemption limit.
  2. Claim Refunds: If you've paid more tax (like TDS) than required, you can claim a refund by filing ITR.
  3. Visa and Loan Applications: ITR is often required as proof of income when applying for loans or visas.
  4. Carry Forward Losses: You can carry forward losses (like capital losses) for future tax benefits only if you file your ITR on time.
  5. Avoid Penalties: Failing to file ITR may result in penalties and interest charges under the Income Tax Act.

Who Should File an ITR?

You should file an ITR if any of the following apply to you:

  • Your gross total income exceeds the basic exemption limit:
    • ₹2.5 lakh for individuals below 60 years
    • ₹3 lakh for individuals between 60–80 years
    • ₹5 lakh for individuals above 80 years
  • You want to claim a tax refund.
  • You are a company or firm (mandatory, regardless of income).
  • You have foreign assets or income.
  • You deposited over ₹1 crore in a current bank account.
  • You spent more than ₹2 lakh on foreign travel or ₹1 lakh on electricity.
  • You're applying for a loan or visa and need to show proof of income.

Types of ITR Forms

The Income Tax Department has different forms based on your income type and category of taxpayer:

ITR Form

Applicable For

ITR-1 (Sahaj)

Salaried individuals with income up to ₹50 lakh, one house property, other sources (like interest), and agricultural income up to ₹5,000

ITR-2

Individuals and HUFs not having income from business or profession

ITR-3

Individuals and HUFs having income from business or profession

ITR-4 (Sugam)

Presumptive income scheme for business/profession with income up to ₹50 lakh

ITR-5

Partnership firms, LLPs, AOPs, BOIs

ITR-6

Companies other than those claiming exemption under Section 11

ITR-7

Persons including trusts, political parties, charitable institutions filing under Sections 139(4A to 4F)

Tip: Most salaried individuals use ITR-1 or ITR-2, depending on their income sources.

Documents Required to File ITR

Keep the following documents handy before filing:

·         PAN card

·         Aadhaar card

·         Form 16 (provided by employer)

·         Form 26AS (tax credit statement)

·         Bank account details

·         Details of investments under 80C, 80D, etc.

·         Interest certificates (from banks or post office)

·         Capital gains statements (for investments, property sales)

·         Rental income proofs, if applicable

How to File ITR in India (Step-by-Step Guide)

1. Choose the Right ITR Form

Select the form relevant to your income category.

2. Collect Necessary Documents

Gather income proofs, TDS details, investment details, and bank account numbers.

3. Visit the Income Tax e-Filing Portal

Go to https://www.incometax.gov.in

4. Register or Log In

Use your PAN as the User ID to log in. Register if you are a first-time filer.

5. Download or Use Online Utility

You can either:

·         Fill the ITR form online on the portal

·         Or download the Excel/JSON utility, fill it, and upload it back

6. Fill in Your Income and Deduction Details

Enter salary, house property, capital gains, and deduction details accurately.

7. Calculate Tax and Validate

Ensure all fields are filled correctly and validate the form.

8. Submit and e-Verify

After submission, verify your return using one of the following:

·         Aadhaar OTP

·         Net banking

·         Bank account EVC

·         Sending signed ITR-V by post to CPC, Bengaluru

What Happens After Filing ITR?

·         Acknowledgment: After e-verification, you receive an ITR-V acknowledgment.

·         Processing: The IT Department processes your return. If everything is correct, you may get a refund.

·         Intimation under Section 143(1): You receive this communication once your return is successfully processed.

Deadline for Filing ITR

·         For individual taxpayers: 31st July of the assessment year (e.g., for FY 2024–25, the due date is 31st July 2025).

·         For audit cases: Usually 31st October.

Late filing attracts a penalty under Section 234F—up to ₹5,000 for returns filed after the due date.

Conclusion

Filing your Income Tax Return is not just a legal obligation—it’s a step toward becoming a financially responsible citizen. With increased digitization, the process has become simpler, faster, and more transparent. Whether you're a salaried employee, freelancer, or business owner, understanding the basics of ITR helps you avoid penalties, claim refunds, and stay compliant.

So don’t wait for the deadline to approach—file your ITR early, and take control of your financial future.

 

Weekend-Ready Malls with Seasonal Events and Festivals

  Shopping malls in India are no longer just about retail therapy and food courts—they have evolved into cultural and social hubs. On week...