“He who wonders discovers that this in itself is wonder”, (M.C Escher).

Different people have different recreational pursuits and these can be varied, depending on their interests, availability of time and financial resources. The idea of spending good time with your family and friends has always been filled with entertainment and leisure. When you want a suitable holiday filled with gleaming-city buildings and sensation overload, then we head to the spectacular places once a year. What if you could enjoy the same feeling and entertainment on regular weekends? Not needing to plan things, just react to your instincts and hop to the destinations every weekend. These are such destinations Franchise Today has proliferates; these are the “5 Wonders of Retail Entertainment in India”. All these places are in the state of wonderments and more of all it is famous for its magnetizing and charming uniqueness. It endless mass pull factor are magnificently dotted by the swaying pride to its state, with the accountability of being related to the retail scenario. East and west And North and South come together in these places, where all the wonders have long served as a magnet for hedonists. The best you could find in a modern fast paced life we live in today. These 5 wonders are a jewel in the crown for Modern India of today and years to come.

What, How and for whom the presence of retail entertainment sector in India has been in limelight for the last few years that significance has been undoubted big in terms of growth. Policymakers are quite optimistic that the evolution and steady maturation of organized retailing entertainment will take the economy to new highs. Besides, it will also help strengthen the linkages between the different sectors so as to break the vicious circle of unemployment and ensure a bright future for the next generation. Indian entertainment industry is on the threshold substantial growth going forward because of the per capita income growth, changing demographics, composition and discretionary spending patterns. And to amalgamate entertainment with retail, it is said that The India Retail Industry is the largest among all the industries, accounting for over 10 per cent of the country’s GDP and around 8 per cent of the employment. The Retail Industry in India has come forth as one of the most dynamic and fast paced industries with several players entering the market.

The total concept and idea of entertainment has undergone an attention drawing change in terms of format and consumer buying behavior, ushering in a revolution in entertainment in India. Modern retailing has entered into the Retail market in India as is observed in the form of bustling shopping centers, multi-storied malls and the huge complexes that offer shopping, entertainment and food all under one roof. The Retail Entertainment Industry in India has come forth as one of the most dynamic and fast paced industries with several players entering the market. So with the big shot entering the market, Franchise Today has decided to head all of them together as WONDERS. Come on the joy ride and witness the best 5 wonders of Retail Entertainment of India!

KINGDOM OF DREAMS

The Kingdom of Dreams is a pleasure destination concerned with the entertainment world. Located at the golden triangle of Jaipur, Agra and Delhi,the whole area is spread on large acres of land. The carnival of Kingdom of Dreams takes you to new heights and gives an overwhelming excitement. Here, both technology and art comes together with a delightful journey to the dream land. Culture, heritage, art, craft, cuisine and performing art of India are showcased in several ways in this joyful destination. Its various attractions are Nautanki Mahal, Culture Gully, Showshaa Theatre and Iifa Buzz. Moreover, kingdom of dreams makes you feel of living your imagination more than you could ever think of.

Kingdom of Dreams, the mammoth project is one-of-a-kind initiative of the Great Indian Nautanki Company to promote Indian culture and tourism. The promoters of this phenomenon are Wizcraft International Entertainment, India’s leading entertainment and Communication Company and Apra Group of Companies. The company’s vision is to create theme-based entertainment experiences of exceptional standards and promote Indian culture and performing arts across the globe.

Mr. Sharukh Khan, Global Ambassador, Kingdom of Dreams says, “Kingdom of Dreams is reflective of India, its rich culture and seamless heritage and I am proud to promote my country, my India, through this platform, as it gives the feeling “yeh nahi dekha toh kuch nahi dekha!” It brings together the grandeur of architectural diversity integrated perfectly with traditional Indian performing arts, entertainment and India’s rich cultural heritage. Kingdom of dreams is a world class experience and I am ecstatic to be a part of an India brand that has set the stage for entertainment at its best.”

A phenomenal blend of architectural extravaganza with cutting edge technology, Kingdom of Dreams is designed and conceptualized to offer international and domestic tourists a breath-taking, magical Indian experience with a brilliant showcase of modern and traditional India. The cinematic and theatrical musicals are performed in Nautanki Mahal. A mixture of bollywood style and Indian culture in the form of theatrical act, on stage drama and stories will give you once in a lifetime experience. This extravaganza package is filled with glitz and glamour in combination with entertainment by ZANGOORA, The gypsy Princes- world’s biggest Bollywood musical stage show. Opulent and stunning in its colourful panorama, Zangoora creates glorious, magical irrationality with sprightly characters who enact the tale against surreal sets and incredible backdrops. The charming story of The Gypsy Prince’s antics and travails is strung together with wonderful and lilting melodies. Songs are delightful, situations full of drama are balanced with the comical; music is divine and the story evokes laughter as well as tears – which is the appeal of Bollywood. The gypsy prince Zangoora wins hearts with his charisma, Lachchi the fiery gypsy girl smoulders and the ethereal princess Sonali weaves magic with her charming ways. Featuring the talented Hussain Kuwajarewala, Gauahar Khan and Kashmira Irani the entire cast and crew have continued to mesmerize audiences each evening with their breathtaking acts and the stellar performances setting stage on fire.

With a fantastic script, composition and production, it will surely be a world class entertainment for you. In Showshaa Theatre, plays on Indian mythology such as Ram Lila and Krishna Lila are performed. Stories from the Indian epics are showcased with beautiful costumes and fabulous choreography. You can take part in the mock wedding shows by being the bridal couple or wedding guest. This will definitely be a memorable experience as you will be wed with Indian tradition with jewellery, costumes, dance and music. You can click some of the beautiful moments in your camera to cherish afterwards. Talented and magnificent performances are also performed in a circus show organized in Showshaa Theatre.

Replete with the flourish of two welcoming elephants, Culture Gully distinctive endeavor brings to life the magic and timeless mystique of India in a unique blend which will leave the spectators spell bound. The fusion of art, culture, heritage, crafts, impressive architecture, cuisine and performing arts are beautifully synchronized with spectacular technological wizardry. Culture Gully, one of the core attractions of Kingdom of Dreams, is an elaborate boulevard under India’s first ever skydRome. Spread over 100,000 square feet, this magical avenue offers an exciting experience of a busy Indian street showcasing India as a delightful destination to savour the best of local cuisines, sample many of India’s renowned handicrafts and enjoy live performances by traditional artists. The Culture Gully presents a magnificent Indian carnival showcasing 14 states of India in its entire splendor on a single street enveloped under a breathtaking skydRome.

Six restaurants, six show kitchens, three street bars and seven retail stores, representing 14 states of India will engage and entertain visitors at Culture Gully. Interesting architectural and cultural facets of Sikkim, West Bengal, Assam, Kerala, Delhi, Punjab, Madhya Pradesh, Chennai, Goa, Mumbai, Lucknow, Kashmir and Rajasthan, are presented at Culture Gully. Visitors have a surfeit of options from enjoying a leisurely cup of South Indian filter coffee at the unusual Madras Cafe, to a massage on the beaches of Goa; from trendy shopping on Mumbai’s fashion street to enlightening spiritualism at the Mystic Centre. Assam Tea House welcomes all visitors with India’s famed variety of teas, while enjoying performances and wares of local artisans, street performers and folk dancers from across the country. The sheer artistry extends to the splendor of the architectural details at Culture Gully. It places a visitor in the midst of a huge set of an epic serial or period movie with its imposing facade designed. The innovative multilayered and complex architectural style and ingenious designs, have given Kingdom of Dreams and Culture Gully a unique dimension

Taking off from the hugely popular brand IIFA, IIFA Buzz Cafe, one of the core attractions of Kingdom of Dreams presents an elaborate and complete Bollywood experience. The IIFA Buzz is a themed cafe which gives a blend of glamour and music. Posters, records, music and props of Indian cinema add special colors to this mesmerizing experience. The decor gives the sense of Indian cinema royalty memorabilia met with snapshots of the magic that once captured our imaginations, leaving us in awe. A peek inside brings to life the last decade of IIFA through a world map, depicting locations that IIFA has traveled to, costumes worn by the stars on the IIFA carpets and a film strip of IIFA’s iconic moments running through the cafe.

In the words of Viraf Sarkari, Director, Wizcraft International Entertainment, “Kingdom of Dreams is a distinctive, live entertainment destination that is sure to capture the heart of its spectators and make every Indian very proud. Incredible in scale and scope, it has been conceptualized to offer a magical Indian experience like none other. Culture Gully, one of the core attractions of Kingdom of Dreams is a kaleidoscope of India’s unique cultural diversity.”

Kingdom of Dreams in Gurgaon is bound to be become one of the greatest tourist destinations not only in India but also in world. With its grand and royal facade it is ready to provide world class entertainment to visitors from all over the world. Here you can watch live grand Bollywood style musicals and live performances with latest in special effects. Also a unique concept of Culture gully meaning culture street brings you the complete panorama of India under one roof, where you can enjoy dishes from all over India, shop for handicrafts, enjoy life performances, sip the delicious tea from Assam… all under one roof. Kingdom of Dreams is an architectural masterpiece. A Magical, Mystical & Memorable experience of India!!

ADVENTURE ISLAND

The business of fun is getting bigger. Get ready to soak in some fun, bathe in sunlight & enjoy a day of complete relaxation in Delhi’s Adventure Island . As you enter the 62- acre island, you will find corkscrew slides, waterfalls, a giant wave pool, rambling river, and many such attractions that create a laid-back atmosphere for the perfect family outing.. The project encompasses a shopping mall – Metrowalk and Adventure Island, a world class amusement park and a water park. It is the result of 50% partnership between Unitech and International Amusement Ltd., the promoters of Appu Ghar. Adventure Island envisage a more participatory and interactive form of entertainment with no spectators, for all are actors in the exhilarating play world.

The Adventure Island Park has a fairy tale look with bright yellow walls, brightly painted clock towers, bridges, imposing gateways, fantasy theme lands, seascape, jungle, mountains and gardens. It also features the lazy river, fountains, a wave pool and water slides. Its great place too be in. The rides are fast and are not meant for the mellower and the cozy hearts. Z Force, Sidewinder and Cyclone Rider are the famous rides. But then the safety measures are also stringent – and the staff smart. The most thrilling and exiting rides in the park allure both the kids and the adults alike. Marvelously planted blooming and other decorative plants give the place an enchanting as well as a stunning look.

Middle of the property, is a bridge resembling the San Francisco’s Golden Gate – separating the island from a plush mall. Considered to be India’s most beautiful amalgamation of retail and entertainment, Adventure Island gives the chance of perfect glimpses. The Metro Walk – that is what this two tier shopping complex is called – is an array place to fill your bags with all the goody stuff. This retail development has a fun / amusement / impulse driven retail mix as well as convenience shopping options for an extended catchments area. It overlooks a large lake which acts as the separator between the mall building and the park. Addition to the rides there is a whole range of world class coffee house and shopping houses like Costa Coffee and Benetton. KFC, Punjabi by Nature, Fast Trax, Spoon the Food Court, Pizza Hut, Yo China, Nirula’s, Pind Balluchi, Flaming Wok, Gola Sizzler, Baskin Robins, Ruby Tuesday, Barista, Costa Coffee, McDonald’s, Cafe Coffee Day – all have found place for themselves in this mall.

Mrs Benu Saigal, Vice President Operations says “Adventure Island is a phenomenon that has made an indelible mark on travel and tourism and changed the very notion of what it means to take a vacation and be entertained. It can be a wonderful source of pleasure and a great way to gather with friends and family for treasured, shared moments”. She also stated that, the vital aim of Adventure Island is “Once you park your car, your weekends are taken care off”. Setting the best example of being perfect amalgamation of retail and entertainment; Adventure Island gives you all.

Adventure Island, the versatile, multi Entertainment Park at sunset point offers a unique way to experience the exotic grandeur of Delhi in its integrals. It comes up with a wholesome family entertainment saga of rapturous experiences, which leaves you at a point of nonstop excitement in a thrilling and bewitching shopping area. Great fun styles equaling international standards keep you on the ecstatic brink of frenzy.

“To all who come to this happy place, ADVENTURE ISLAND is your land. Here age relives fond memories of the past, and here youth may savor the challenge and promise of the future. Adventure Island is dedicated to the ideas, dreams and the hard facts that have created India, with the hope that it will be a source of joy and inspiration”

ICE QUBE

If the scorching sun and the sweltering heat of an Indian summer drive you to the depths of the Himalayas or compel you to seek solace in chilled beers and lip-smacking ices, there’s a best place. Hardly a wonder then that all around there’s just ice – ice seating, ice curtains, ice pillars, ice artefacts and yes, a full-fledged ice bar. Let the mercury soar to 47degree Celsius or more while you are pleasantly shivering at the coolest chill zone of Mumbai. Welcome to the Ice Lounge, ICE QUBE popularly known as 21 Fahrenheit, right in the heart of Mumbai, an enchanting world of pure ice bathed in a rainbow of psychedelic lights. 21 Fahrenheit is India’s first permanent lounge made of ice kept at a temperature of minus six degrees Celsius all year round.

On your arrival at 21 FAHREINHEIT an employee fits you with a blue parka, gives you knitted gloves and then you slip into the moon boots, all ready to step into Ice Bar. The lounge is the first in the world to serve delicious, steaming hot cuisines in freezing temperatures and on plates made of ice. The tasty fare comes accompanied bydistinctive cocktails and mocktails. The parent company Kei 7 Lifestyle brings a new chilling out experience, when the directors realized that India didn’t have an ice-bar/lounge, a prominent feature in London, Canada, Las Vegas and other places, they thought, ‘Why not be the pioneers?’ And so they joined forces to create “Ice Qube”, an 820 sq. ft. bar-lounge in Andheri, Mumbai. Ensconced in the thermal-wear, you step into the icy confines of 21 Fahrenheit and a blast of cold air welcomes you. Nothing you have heard prepares you for the real thing. Everything – from the seats to the walls to the curtains to the chandeliers to the crockery – is made of ice! “Except the flooring (tiled to keep people from slipping), everything is made of ice.

The differentiating factor of 21 Fahrenheit is that it’s the first ice lounge in the world to serve hot starters like Murgh angara kebab, Mutton kebab, Spicy Wasabi prawn tempura, Mushroom jalapeno poppers and more. The DJ plays popular music, hip hop, bollywood and Punjabi numbers. The restaurant upstairs serves Thai, Chinese,Japanese and Awadhi cuisine and boasts of a live kitchen.

Speaking about the concept Mr. Aalok Purohit,Director, said, “Ice Qube is just one of the many first’s we have planned for India. Our company, Kei 7 Lifestyle, was formed with the objective of introducing concept driven properties to India. Ice Bars can sometimes be seen as a gimmick and remain open for only three to four months. But we plan to keep 21 Fahrenheit open all year round, whilst continually introducing new and exciting features – everything from the drinks to the interiors will be changed every six months. The whole beauty of ice is that you can do what you want with it.” He also stated that it’s that one place- where you party and you don’t sweat

It’s a known fact – when you visit hill stations and it’s very cold, you want to get that bottle of aerated water outside and have a few sips to make you feel all warm. But, this new place re-defines everything. Instead of being a regular lounge, it is worth a visit for its interesting twin concept of a night club plus Pan Asian restaurant. The icy chill and the dimmed blue-and-red lighting quickly set the mood for all sorts of fun.

HIJACKK

So when was the last time you jumped onto a double-decker bus?And when was the last time you had dinner on a double-decker bus?If you think we’re joking, read on.”When was the last time you did something for the first time?” A perfect tagline which describe in best way about Hijackk. Unbelievable yet true..it’s here! First time to hit the Indian roads- HIJACKK: The state of the art Double Decker mobile bus restaurant. A venture of Moistclay Entertainment & Media Pvt Ltd Hijack was visualized with the concept of bringing to the people a unique dining and entertainment experience. HIJACKK- ing people for fun, food and entertainment; and of course giving the people of Ahmedabad a one of its kind experience is our ultimate aim.

“Big Red Bus” is a creative procreation of bistro decorated amidst a red double-decker bus and seems like a Restaurant on Wheels. It is the most exotic elegance to dinning in India that apart from a delicious culinary journey, gives an entrancing opportunity to enjoy the city tour. The culinary excursion is an unlimited fun ride to embark for enamoring memories. Hijackk is immensely popular with leisure vacationers and is a must for all vacationers to explore the city.

If you regularly eat out and are feeling a little jaded about the whole thing, here is a novel concept to shake you out of your boredom. Hijackk, a double decker bus, offers on-the-move al fresco dining, says Mr Anirvan Dam, director of Hijackk. He also stated that “We wanted to do something new. The country already had a revolving restaurant and we thought what next? This concept was first introduced in Ahmedabad and Surat and it was a huge success. We are starting our foray into other parts of India.”

The restaurant is open for dinner and serves buffets only. It makes two trips of 90 minutes each, covering 30-35 kilometers along the scenic route. With a seating capacity of 40 people, the bus can also be booked for special occasions. The lower deck consists of air-conditioned seating with neon lighting and AV station where one can place music requests. The upper deck of the bus is perfect to take in the panoramic view of the beautiful city and popular sightseeing locations, along with the live bands performing on deck. The drive will take you across the enchanting landscape, classic charm of monuments of bygone epoch, refreshing breeze, jovial city life, and delectable cuisines call for an unforgettable dinning outing.

The bus moves only at snails pace, so you don’t need to worry about spilling / dropping. The accent here is not on food, but on the novel experience. The set menu is palatable but not exceptional. There’s a soup, followed by paneer tikka, daal, paratha, pulaoand veggies. Remember to tuck into the gulab jamun before you disembark! Food is your first love.. Exotic panache is your preference.. HIJACKK is our answer!

Ever since Bollywood started dishing out kimchi quesadillas and hipster attitude on the streets of India, the Twittering food truck trend has only gotten hotter. But now, a new breed of restaurant is emerging and taking mobile dining to a whole other level — literally. The bustaurant phenomenon of HIJACKK is just beginning to gain momentum. It is fresh, it is new and it is all for you

So, BON VOYAGE!!

H2O

Entertainment is the one of the largest industries in the world and change has always been rapid. The present generations’ attraction towards adventure and physical fitness is very apparent. Water has always given solace to the human mind due to the abundance of space that it provides. This ensures that there is no fatigue level in this sport. Water Sports is the only activity, which provides entertainment, adventure, exercise as well as relaxation. Seeing a total vacuum and an opportunity, H2O was conceived. H2O Water Sports Complex is situated at Marine Drive in Mumbai, Maharashtra. This complex is managed by Drishtii Adventure Sports Private Limited (DASPL) and is operated by Maharashtra Tourism Development Corporation’s (MTDC) Water Sports Center.

Established in 2001, this complex offers water sports and joy rides. Parasailing, water skiing, canoeing, kayaking, jet boats, wind surfing and rowing are some the major activities here. The joy rides for the tourists are the bay cruise, dolphin cruise, pontoon boat, heritage cruise, sunset cruise and the moonlight cruise. The center also conducts summer camps and special schemes for school children and college students. It also has well-trained lifeguards. The 430 ft long floating jetty with a walkway is a major attraction. The foundation stone to explore the vastness of opportunities in water related adventure and leisure activities was done under Drishtii Adventure Sports Private Limited (DASPL), a company incorporated in July 2000 is a special purpose company formed inter-alia to develop and operate Maharashtra Tourism Development Corporations (MTDC) Water Sports Center at the prestigious Girgaum Chowpatty.

In a span of 5 years due to the immense possibilities it was considered appropriate to route all investments in water and land adventure and leisure activities through a holding company. Being the flagship and first company of the group has recorded numerous milestones like, Technical partner for formula one power boat grand prix Mumbai 2004, Consultancy to state tourism department and Chosen to train the Mumbai fire brigade search and rescue team in water rescue techniques. H20 was fortunate to be chosen by the Indian Navy to be a part of the International Fleet Review held in February 2001. Drishti Adventure (Holdings) Pvt Ltd holds strategic shareholding in many group companies which carry out specific activities in Goa and other places.

India possesses a six thousand – kilometre coastline, which is amongst the largest in the world. We are also the world’s second most populous nation. In a world, which is two-thirds water, we did not possess a single professionally managed Water Sports Centre till 2001. This led to the incorporation of Drishti Adventure (Holdings) Pvt Ltd. And today we are the only one in this arena by which we are growing big day by day, says Ankit Somani, Vice President, H2O.

Mumbai has a vast beach line and it is put to good use by the Drishti Adventures (H2O). So, shed that fear and avail services like parasailing, water skiing, canoeing, kayaking, jet boats, wind surfing and rowing, among others. The centre also have well-trained lifeguards for your safety. At the H2O complex, the tourist can indulge in diverse activities on the beach. Apart from enhancing tourism value, this also provides a family ambience for the visitors. Joy rides include cruises, such as the bay cruise, sunset cruise and the moonlight cruise.