Events
Weekly Pop Culture Recap: Microsoft to discontinue Skype by May, Best Highlights from the Milan Fashion Week
From unexpected farewells to groundbreaking achievements, this weekly pop culture recap covers big moments across tech, fashion, film, and television.
Pop culture never stands still, and this week was no exception. From major industry shifts to historic achievements, the past few days brought big wins, emotional farewells, and game-changing moments across tech, fashion, and entertainment. Catch up on it all with this weekly pop culture recap.
Screen Actors Guild (SAG) Awards 2025

The 31st Annual SAG Awards, held on February 23, 2025, were a big night for both film and TV. In film, Conclave took home the Best Ensemble Cast award, while Timothée Chalamet won Best Actor for his role as Bob Dylan in A Complete Unknown. Demi Moore was named Best Actress for The Substance, and Kieran Culkin and Zoe Saldaña got the nod for their supporting roles in A Real Pain and Emilia Pérez.
On the TV side, Shōgun swept the Drama Series category, with Hiroyuki Sanada and Anna Sawai winning Best Actor and Actress in a Drama Series. In Comedy Series, Only Murders in the Building won Best Ensemble, and Martin Short and Jean Smart picked up Best Actor and Actress for their roles in Only Murders and Hacks. The night also celebrated Jane Fonda with the SAG Life Achievement Award, where she gave an inspiring speech about the importance of empathy and unity in the industry.
Milan Fashion Week 2025

Milan Fashion Week 2025 has officially come to an end, and while the entire week was packed with stunning moments, a few standout collections dominated conversations. Prada redefined mid-century fashion with voluminous skirts, structured suits, and minimalist coats inspired by the 1950s and 1960s, celebrating movement and elegance. Fendi’s 100th-anniversary show was one of the most anticipated, paying tribute to its legacy with luxurious fabrics, intricate detailing, and archival designs that reflected its century-long influence. Diesel brought a bold, rebellious energy to the runway, reviving 1990s fashion with ultra-low-rise jeans, sheer dresses, and daring cuts that pushed boundaries. Max Mara channeled Gothic romance with dramatic coats, tailored suits, and deep, moody hues, while Marni’s collaboration with Nigerian artists injected the week with a explosion of colors and sculptural silhouettes. Jil Sander closed an era with Luke and Lucie Meier’s final collection, blending their signature minimalism with unexpected punk influences.
Beyond these highlights, there was plenty more to talk about—Gucci’s experimental take on streetwear and tailoring started discussions, Bottega Veneta’s use of innovative textures and craftsmanship stood out, and emerging designers made an impression with fresh perspectives. The fusion of heritage and innovation was a recurring theme, proving that Milan remains at the forefront of global fashion.
Microsoft to discontinue Skype, the pioneering internet calling service, by May 2025.

Just over 20 years after its launch, the pioneering internet calling platform will shut down in May 2025. Microsoft announced the decision on Friday, February 28, via X, encouraging users to switch to Microsoft Teams to stay connected with their chats and contacts.
Ne Zha 2’ Becomes Highest-Grossing Animated Movie Ever

The Chinese animated film Ne Zha 2 has become a record-breaking phenomenon, amassing $1.9 billion from nearly 80,000 screens in just four weeks—without relying on the world’s largest theatrical market. It now holds the title of the highest-grossing film in a single territory, surpassing Star Wars: The Force Awakens (2015), which earned $936.7 million in North America. Remarkably, Ne Zha 2 achieved this milestone in just 11 days, compared to The Force Awakens, which took 165 days. The achievements don’t end there. Ne Zha 2 has also become the highest-grossing animated film in history, overtaking 2024’s Inside Out 2 ($1.66 billion). With its momentum, it’s on track to become the first animated movie to surpass the $2 billion mark.
Michelle Trachtenberg, known for her role in Gossip Girl, has passed away at the age of 39.

Michelle Trachtenberg, best known for her roles in Buffy the Vampire Slayer and Gossip Girl, has passed away at the age of 39, as confirmed by the New York Police Department. According to police sources speaking to ABC News, Trachtenberg was found deceased in her New York City apartment by her mother on the morning of February 26th, around 8 a.m. local time. While the exact cause of death is still under investigation, authorities have ruled out foul play. Trachtenberg rose to fame as a child star in The Adventures of Pete & Pete and later appeared in Harriet the Spy (1996). She became widely recognized for portraying Dawn Summers in Buffy the Vampire Slayer and Georgina Sparks in Gossip Girl.
Also Read: Meta Phases Out Fact-Checking and Adopts a Community-Driven Approach similar to X
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Entertainment
Uttarakhand Wedding Awards 2025: Celebrating the State’s Journey Towards Becoming a Premier Global Wedding Destination
Uttarakhand Wedding Awards
Dehradun, 14th September 2025 – The Uttarakhand Wedding Awards 2025 lit up the evening skies at Hyatt Centric, Dehradun, with a dazzling celebration of excellence, creativity, and vision in the wedding industry.
Organized by Himalayan Buzz Admedia LLP, in association with The Big Daddy Events Co., the event brought together leaders from the wedding, hospitality, and tourism sectors to recognize excellence and lay the foundation for Uttarakhand’s emergence as a world-class wedding destination.
The glittering evening featured an exclusive guest list of wedding planners, hoteliers, tourism officials, and government representatives, all working collectively towards transforming Uttarakhand into a premier hub for wedding tourism.
Dignitaries Grace the Occasion
The awards night witnessed the presence of eminent dignitaries who have been instrumental in shaping the state’s cultural and tourism landscape. The event was graced by Maharani of Tehri Garhwal and Member of Parliament, Mala Rajya Laxmi Shah, attending as the Chief Guest. Her presence added a touch of regal elegance and highlighted the importance of preserving Uttarakhand’s rich heritage while promoting it as a global wedding destination.
Accompanying her were other distinguished Guests of Honor, including Mrs. Tripti Juyal Semwal, Vice President of Maya Devi University, Mrs. Poonam Chand, Additional Director at Uttarakhand Tourism, and Shri Saurabh Thapliyal, Mayor of Dehradun. Their combined presence underscored the collaborative effort between government bodies, academia, and industry leaders to elevate Uttarakhand’s wedding tourism ecosystem.
Strategic Industry Dialogue – Vision & Mission 2030
One of the evening’s most significant highlights was a panel discussion on “Uttarakhand Wedding Vision & Mission 2030 – Building a Sustainable, Spiritual, and World-Class ‘Wed in India’ Destination.”
The panel featured some of the most prominent voices from the wedding and hospitality sectors. Esteemed panelists included Ravi Goel, Co-founder of The Big Daddy Events; Gaurav Chanana, Whistling Teel; Rishabh Panchhi, Panchhi Events; Ayu Tripathi, Director, Aahana Resort, Jim Corbett; Ajit Singh Gandhi, General Manager, Hyatt Centric Rajpur Dehradun; and Malabika Das, Director of Celebrations, Hyatt Regency Dehradun Resort and Spa.
The session was moderated by Avinash Mishra, Founder of Badmash Kebabi, ensuring a seamless exchange of ideas and perspectives.
Recognizing Excellence – Winners of Uttarakhand Wedding Awards 2025
The evening culminated in honoring outstanding individuals and organizations whose work has set new benchmarks for quality, creativity, and service in the wedding industry. From luxury resorts and planners to designers and service providers, each winner demonstrated exceptional innovation and dedication to building world-class wedding experiences in Uttarakhand.
Uttarakhand Wedding Awards 2025 – Winners
- Best Wedding Venue – Luxury Hotel – Taj Mussoorie Foothills, Dehradun
- Best Wedding Venue – 5 Star Hotel – Hyatt Regency Dehradun Resort and Spa
- Best Wedding Venue – Luxury Resort – Aahana Resort, Jim Corbett
- Best Wedding Venue – Resort – Saraca Resort & Spa, Corbett
- Best Wedding Venue – Ganges Beach – Summit by the Ganges, Rishikesh
- Best Wedding Venue – Heritage Hotel – Hotel Chevron Fairhavens, Nainital
- Best Wedding Venue – Bespoke – Hyatt Regency Dehradun Resort and Spa
- Best Wedding Venue – Mid Size – Regenta, Dehradun
- Best Wedding Venue – City – Hyatt Centric, Rajpur Road, Dehradun
- Best Wedding Venue – Midscale Destination Wedding – Pride Premier Solitaire, Dehradun
- Best Wedding Venue – Lakefront – The Lake Resort, Naukuchiatal
- Best Wedding Venue – Lawn – Qupid by Saffron Leaf
- Best Wedding Venue – Pre-Wedding Ceremonies – The Fern Brentwood Resort, Mussoorie
- Best MICE Venue – Hyatt Centric, Rajpur Road, Dehradun
- Upcoming Luxury Wedding Venue – Paatlidun Safari Lodge
- Best Wedding Venue – Riverside – Maldevta Farms, Dehradun
- Best Wedding Venue – Boutique Resort – AAR Resorts & Spa
- Best Bakery – Wedding Cakes – Ellora’s Melting Moments
- Best Wedding Photographer – Intenselovestory by Kuldeep Semwal
These winners are not only redefining the wedding landscape of Uttarakhand but also helping the state gain recognition as a leading destination for grand celebrations and luxury weddings.
Leadership Speaks
Sharing her thoughts on the event, Namrata Bhandari, Editor-in-Chief, Himalayan Buzz Magazine, stated:
“Uttarakhand is blessed with a rare combination of breathtaking landscapes and world-class hospitality. Through these awards, our aim is to spotlight the talented individuals and organizations working tirelessly to make the state a top choice for weddings and celebrations.”
Adding to this, Gauraveshwar Singh, Co-founder, Himalayan Buzz, remarked:
“The Uttarakhand Wedding Awards are not just about recognition but about building a collaborative platform that unites the wedding industry. This initiative is a step forward in positioning Uttarakhand as a global wedding hub while fostering sustainable growth and innovation.”
About Uttarakhand Wedding Awards
The Uttarakhand Wedding Awards is a flagship initiative by Himalayan Buzz Admedia LLP. The awards celebrate individuals and organizations driving growth in the wedding and events industry while promoting Uttarakhand as one of India’s most desirable wedding destinations.
With Himalayan Buzz at the forefront, the initiative focuses on fostering excellence, sustainability, and innovation, ensuring that Uttarakhand’s wedding tourism sector thrives and competes on a global stage.
Media Contact:
Himalayan Buzz Admedia LLP
📧 Email: info@himalayanbuzz.com
📞 Phone: +91-70373 99960
#UttarakhandWeddingAwards #WedInUttarakhand #UWA25
Also Read: National Food Awards 2025: A Celebration of Legacy, Labour, and Local Wisdom in Indian Food
Events
National Food Awards 2025: A Celebration of Legacy, Labour, and Local Wisdom in Indian Food
Discultured’s National Food Awards 2025 is set to take place this November in Delhi, bringing together the voices, stories, and talent shaping India’s food culture today.
Food in India has never been just about sustenance. It’s a reflection of who we are, where we come from, and how we live, with every meal carrying the weight of memory, geography, and tradition in a way that few other cultural markers do. Street food served hot at roadside stalls, thalis packed with local seasonal produce, intricately plated dishes at fine-dining restaurants reimagining familiar flavours, home kitchens keeping traditional recipes alive, and cafes experimenting with global influences come together to form a food culture that continues to evolve while staying firmly rooted in regional identity and generational knowledge.

When we hosted the first edition of the National Food Awards, our intention was to draw attention to the people who are making a real impact in this space, not just those with visibility, but also those whose work often goes unnoticed despite playing a crucial role in influencing how we think about food in India today. We celebrated chefs holding on to legacy recipes, restaurants offering thoughtful experiences, and food entrepreneurs bringing in new ways of thinking, and through all of it, what became clear was that Indian food culture is being carried forward by people who are invested in its legacy, its present realities, and the possibilities it holds for change.
This year, as we return with the 2025 edition, the intent remains the same, which is to celebrate the minds, hands, and ideas that continue to influence the way India thinks about food. What makes this platform unique is that it doesn’t only look at the obvious or the already celebrated. It goes deeper, recognising those who work behind the scenes, often without a spotlight, but whose impact is far-reaching.

As the food industry continues to go through its own changes, driven by the trends of sustainability, accessibility, digital influence, and a return to local wisdom, we believe it’s important to create space for dialogue, recognition, and representation. The National Food Awards is our small contribution to that larger conversation.
This November in Delhi, we look forward to meeting the people who are changing the food map of the country with their own unique contributions and to telling their stories the way they deserve to be told.
If you’re a chef, restaurant, food entrepreneur, or someone building meaningful work in the food space, this is your moment. Check out the categories and register now to be considered for the National Food Awards 2025.
Also Read: The Biggest Moments for Indian Cinema at Cannes 2025 That Had Everyone Talking
Register Here : National Food Awards
Events
The Biggest Moments for Indian Cinema at Cannes 2025 That Had Everyone Talking
The Cannes Film Festival has always been a celebration of global cinema, glamour, and groundbreaking storytelling and this year was no different. Cannes 2025 stood out for its powerful mix of legacy and new voices, and Indian cinema found itself right at the heart of it all. Here’s a look at all the incredible moments that made this year’s festival really unforgettable for Indian cinema and had everyone talking.
Neeraj Ghaywan’s Homebound Earns Global Applause and a Nine-Minute Ovation

When Neeraj Ghaywan’s film Homebound was screened in the Un Certain Regard section at the festival, it received a powerful nine-minute standing ovation, becoming a proud and emotional moment for Indian cinema. Starring Ishaan Khatter, Janhvi Kapoor, and Vishal Jethwa, the film tells a touching story of friendship, dignity, and pain, set in the heart of rural North India. Legendary filmmaker Martin Scorsese, who supported the film as executive producer, praised it as an important work that adds great value to Indian cinema. Director Neeraj Ghaywan was clearly emotional, moved by the strong and warm response from the audience.
Restored Classic Aranyer Din Ratri Celebrated Satyajit Ray’s Timeless Legacy

The Cannes Classics section took audiences on a nostalgic journey with the screening of Satyajit Ray’s Aranyer Din Ratri (1970), now beautifully restored. The film received a warm standing ovation, with legendary actors Sharmila Tagore and Simi Garewal present at the screening. The restoration was made possible by The Film Foundation’s World Cinema Project, with support from the Golden Globe Foundation. Filmmaker Wes Anderson, a longtime admirer of Ray’s work, introduced the film and described it as a timeless exploration of self-discovery and the desire to escape city life. The screening served as a heartfelt tribute to Ray’s enduring legacy in world cinema.
Payal Kapadia Joined the Competition Jury

After gaining attention last year with her Palme d’Or-winning film, Payal Kapadia returned to Cannes in a new role as a member of the main competition jury. Her selection was an important moment for Indian representation at one of the world’s most respected film festivals.
The jury was led by French actress Juliette Binoche and included members like Halle Berry, Leila Slimani, Carlos Reygadas, Alba Rohrwacher, Jeremy Strong, Dieudo Hamadi, and Hong Sangsoo. Payal Kapadia’s participation added to India’s growing presence in international cinema.
Guneet Monga Launches New Scholarship to Support Women Filmmakers

Award-winning producer Guneet Monga introduced a new initiative at Cannes through Women in Film India (WIF India), the Indian branch of the global Women in Film network.
The recently launched Cannes Producers’ Scholarship by Marché du Film is designed to connect mid-career female producers with international business leaders. To support the cause of increasing visibility, mentorship, and opportunities for Indian women in the film industry, producers Rucha Pathak, Rabia Chopra, Tillotama Shome, and Dimpy Agrawal joined Monga during the announcement.
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