logo
MMTC-PAMP Launches Laddoo Gopal Silver Bar

MMTC-PAMP Launches Laddoo Gopal Silver Bar

MMTC-PAMP, India's premier LBMA-accredited gold and silver refiner, has launched the Laddoo Gopal 50 gm Silver Bar, a meticulously crafted 99.99%+ purity offering that beautifully celebrates the divine essence of Lord Krishna's child form.
This exclusive collectible showcases a vivid, 3D-colored depiction of Laddoo Gopal, adorned with traditional ornaments and seated in serene joy. Revered for his innocence, charm, and playfulness, Laddoo Gopal holds a special place in Indian homes, where he is cared for like family and offered sweets, especially laddoos.
The back side of the bar is engraved with a sacred Sanskrit shloka, 'ॐ कृष्णाय वासुदेवाय हरये परमात्मने। प्रणतः क्लेशनाशाय गोविंदाय नमो नमः॥. This verse is a prayer to Lord Krishna, praising him as Vasudeva, Hari, and Govinda, the Supreme being, who removes all troubles and protects us always.
Mr. Samit Guha, Chief Financial and Technology Officer at MMTC-PAMP, shared, 'This launch represents our commitment to blending India's deep-rooted spiritual legacy with world-class purity and craftsmanship. The Laddoo Gopal silver bar is not just a product—it's a token of devotion and divine blessing.'
True to MMTC-PAMP standards, the silver bar is created with Swiss precision, undergoes advanced refining, and is Assayer Certified for its 999.9+ purity. It comes with a unique identification number and tamper-proof packaging, assuring authenticity and exceptional value with every purchase.
The Laddoo Gopal Silver Bar is now available through MMTC-PAMP's website, Amazon, Flipkart, and its network of exclusive stores and partner jewellers.
Orange background

Try Our AI Features

Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:

Comments

No comments yet...

Related Articles

Tech Diplomacy: Reshaping Global Power Dynamics?
Tech Diplomacy: Reshaping Global Power Dynamics?

EVN Report

time29-07-2025

  • EVN Report

Tech Diplomacy: Reshaping Global Power Dynamics?

When Denmark appointed Casper Klynge as the first tech ambassador to Silicon Valley, it wasn't just a novel diplomatic move, it helped launch the concept of 'tech diplomacy', a new frontier in international relations. But is this the beginning of a transformative shift in global power dynamics, or a symbolic gesture in an increasingly digital world? Evolution of 'Tech Diplomacy' Foreign policy is undergoing profound transformation, making active engagement with technology crucial for states to remain effective global players. The Fourth Industrial Revolution, driven by technological advancements, is advancing rapidly. Tech giants like Google, Amazon, Meta and Microsoft now influence international norms and regulatory landscapes with a reach that rivals, and in some cases surpasses, that of traditional state actors. In this fluid era, a new arms race centered on technological advancement is emerging between nations, reshaping their international relationships. Traditional diplomatic attachés struggle to keep pace with rapid technological change. In response, governments are appointing tech, digital and cyber diplomats to assert influence in the digital realm. Though these roles have distinct definitions, they are commonly grouped under the single umbrella term of 'tech diplomacy.' Techplomacy, Denmark's term for 'tech diplomacy', reflects the country's goal to establish a presence and gain access to major tech corporations, ensuring it has influence in shaping global technological trends. Based in Silicon Valley, the Danish tech ambassador focuses on regulatory matters, cybersecurity, and expanding Denmark's soft power in developing countries. The role also provides early insight into emerging technologies, enabling it to assess risks and collaborate with the private sector on national defense priorities including cybersecurity, data protection, and digital infrastructure. A key objective is to engage directly with companies responsible in these domains, such as Microsoft for tech ethics, OpenAI for AI governance, and Cisco Systems for digital infrastructure. Alongside these bilateral efforts, multilateral and community-based tech diplomacy approaches are also gaining momentum. The Tech Diplomacy Network and NASA's Artemis Accords exemplify this trend. These platforms bring together governments, civil society, academia, and the tech industry to collaborate in both technological and geopolitical spheres. They promote international cooperation in space by establishing standards for transparency, sustainable space exploration, and shared regulatory frameworks. These initiatives demonstrate how tech diplomacy is evolving beyond bilateral engagements into broader, more inclusive models that address shared global challenges and ambitions. 'To put it bluntly,' Casper Klynge stated , referring to the vital alliance between technology and diplomacy, 'there is a need to stick together because any alternative is quite frightening.' Others Soon Followed: UK, China, UAE Joe White, the UK's former tech envoy to Silicon Valley, described his role as a clear signal that Britain was reasserting itself on the global stage. The UK sees tech envoys as a way to deepen ties with the tech industry, attract investment, influence regulatory frameworks, and support national defense strategies. Building on this approach, the government later appointed James Cleverly as tech envoy to the Indo-Pacific to strengthen partnerships with India and South Asia, broadening the UK's global tech presence. China offers another illustration, with tech envoys deployed to nearly 50 countries under its Ministry of Science and Technology (MOST). These envoys carry out 'standard' responsibilities: monitoring technological advancements, identifying investment opportunities, and promoting collaborations beneficial to China. Additionally, Jin Zhuanglong was appointed as a special tech envoy to President Xi Jinping, participating in various tech related events, highlighting the important role of technological influence in China's foreign policy. Not all tech diplomacy is formal, however. In the Gulf, the UAE has bypassed official tech envoys in favor of strategic investments. Sheikh Tahnoon bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the UAE National Security Adviser and Deputy Ruler of Abu Dhabi, chairs G42 , an AI and cloud computing company in Abu Dhabi, and MGX , an AI and advanced technology investor, and directs major investments in AI infrastructure and development, including partnerships with global tech giants like Microsoft, which has contributed $1.5 billion. The initiatives range from Arabic-language AI systems and climate technology solutions with NVIDIA (a global leader in AI and GPU technologies), to the establishment of data centers. Through these efforts, the UAE extends its influence and positions itself as a key player in the emerging global AI order. Armenia's 'Quiet' Strategy Diplomacy isn't always about official titles. Sometimes, a nation's influence is shaped by the quiet power of expertise and global networks. In the early 17th century, when Shah Abbas I of Persia relocated thousands of Armenians from Julfa to a newly established district in Isfaha, called New Julfa. This wasn't simply displacement––it was a calculated political strategy. The Armenians possessed valuable skills the Safavid Empire desperately needed: expertise in long-distance trade, silk cultivation, and textile production. Through their extensive commercial networks, they became essential in strengthening Persia's global economic position. In exchange, they were granted autonomy, religious freedom, and exclusive trade privileges. This episode shows how a small, skilled community—armed with knowledge rather than military might—can rise to diplomatic prominence. It's a legacy that continues in new forms today. Armenia is working to gain recognition as a regional tech hub. Organizations like the Union of Advanced Technology Enterprises ( UATE ) lead this effort, aiming to transform Armenia into a 'high-tech powerhouse.' Through initiatives in business development, education, and international expansion, Armenia's approach relies heavily on collaboration. UATE strengthens Armenia's global tech presence indirectly through Armenia-founded companies and international partners. By aligning with tech diplomacy, Armenia leverages diaspora and international partnerships as multipliers of influence, ensuring a seat at the table without having to build it alone. With significant diaspora communities in Los Angeles and San Francisco, Armenia benefits from influential diaspora-led companies––a form of 'diaspora diplomacy.' Startups like ServiceTitan , Picsart , and Krisp AI serve as informal tech ambassadors, connecting Armenia to international markets, investments, resources, and recognition. Even without official tech diplomats, this strategy allows Armenia to leverage its voice through global corporations. A prime example is the recent partnership between NVIDIA, Firebird (a tech company driving innovation in Armenia), and the Armenian government. This collaboration includes a $500 million investment to establish AI factories in the country. Beyond creating a regional supercomputing AI hub and data processing center, this initiative showcases Armenia's active participation in global AI advancement and confirms its position as a regional center for innovation and technology. The Armenian Virtual Bridge , launched in 2020 by the Ministry of High-Tech Industry and AGBU Silicon Valley, was an early attempt to formalize connections between tech communities in Armenia and Silicon Valley. The program aimed to connect Armenian tech startups with international ecosystems through incubation, acceleration, and mentorship opportunities. Despite its early promise, supporting 15 startups and partnering with Draper University, the initiative failed to develop into a sustained platform. This case serves as a warning that without sustainability, the full potential of diaspora and global tech collaboration remains unrealized. Yet, relying solely on diaspora ties may not be enough in a competitive global landscape where major tech firms prioritize large markets. The key challenge is balancing informal networks with the need for an official presence and a clear strategic direction. The Diplomatic School of Armenia, operating under the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Armenia, increasingly focuses on equipping diplomats with technological knowledge. This ensures representation in global tech policy discussions and advocacy for national interests. Armenia's recent joining of the 'Artemis Accords' demonstrates the country's growing engagement in tech diplomacy—a strategic priority area. Additionally, public-private initiatives like the nationwide flagship edtech program Armath and the Center for Creative Technologies TUMO are gaining international recognition. These programs have already become tools of Armenia's soft power in the global tech and education landscape, projecting the country's influence and values worldwide. 'The Game Is Changing, Whether We're Ready or Not' Emerging technologies are becoming as influential as politics. In contemporary society, citizens need a basic understanding of technology, much like they need a foundational awareness of political systems. Diplomats, whether serving as ambassadors to Silicon Valley or as tech envoys abroad, benefit from a strong understanding of technological developments. The future of tech diplomacy likely belongs to those with hybrid profiles: engineers who possess management experience and diplomatic skills. New programs like the Krach Institute for Tech Diplomacy and the increasing focus on technology in state diplomatic schools reflect this emerging standard. Small countries can strengthen their foreign policy by training all diplomats in technological literacy. This doesn't mean learning programming, but rather developing a deep understanding of the strategic importance of digital assets like data centers and local cloud infrastructure. The goal is to equip diplomats with the knowledge needed to identify and engage with key institutions that can support their states' technological development. 'The game is changing,' and we'd better be ready for it.

World Chocolate Day 2025: Which are some of the world's most expensive chocolates?
World Chocolate Day 2025: Which are some of the world's most expensive chocolates?

Tatler Asia

time06-07-2025

  • Tatler Asia

World Chocolate Day 2025: Which are some of the world's most expensive chocolates?

House of Knipschildt Above La Madeline au Truffe from House of Knipschildt (Photo: courtesy of House of Knipschildt) Founded in 1999 by Fritz Knipschildt in the United States, Knipschildt Chocolatier is widely recognised by chocolate enthusiasts as one of the most extravagant chocolate producers in the world. Among its luxurious offerings, La Madeline au Truffe stands out as the most expensive chocolate in its collection. This indulgent creation begins with a decadent ganache made from 70 per cent Valrhona dark chocolate, heavy cream, sugar, truffle oil and vanilla. Encased within this rich ganache is a rare French Perigord truffle, a prized mushroom known for its exquisite flavour. With just one bite, the harmonious blend of chocolate and truffle melts in your mouth. La Madeline au Truffe, one truffle of around 35 grams for US$250 (around HK$1,962) DeLafée Above DeLafée's Swiss edible gold chocolate box with Swiss Collectible Gold Coin (Photo: courtesy of DeLafée) Above DeLafée's gold chocolate (Photo: Instagram / @delafee_of_switzerland) Founded in 2004 and based in Switzerland, DeLafée has established itself as a premier luxury chocolate brand, renowned for its handcrafted creations adorned with 24-karat gold leaf. Among its distinguished offerings is the Celebration 24-karat Gold Chocolate Box with an Antique Swiss Gold Coin. This exquisite box features eight luxurious Swiss chocolates, each made from a Grand Cru chocolate from Ecuador, embellished with edible 24-karat gold. Housed within this opulent gift box is a Swiss Vreneli Francs 10 gold coin, dating from between 1011 and 1922, sourced directly from the Swiss central bank, as noted on DeLafée's official website. Celebration 24-karat Gold Chocolate Box, one box for CHF$470 (around HK$4,584) Le Chocolate Maxime Frédéric at Louis Vuitton Above Vivienne Box chocolate from Le Chocolate Maxime Frédéric at Louis Vuitton (Photo: Instagram / Maxime Frédéric, celebrated as the Pastry Chef of the Year by the Gault & Millau 2022 Guide and the pastry chef at Cheval Blanc Paris, extended his esteemed culinary talent to Louis Vuitton by launching Le Chocolate Maxime Frédéric at Louis Vuitton in 2022. One of his exquisite collections is the Vivienne Box, which features the Louis Vuitton mascot, Vivienne, elegantly depicted on a travel trunk made of both dark and milk chocolate. This bold creation seamlessly blends expert craftsmanship with refined details, showcasing the iconic Louis Vuitton logo perfectly engraved on each piece of boutique chocolate. Unlike any chocolate sculpture you've seen before, Vivienne comes to life with a graceful dance after you turn its milk-chocolate key. The movement is made possible by an intricate internal system of 20 gears, inspired by Louis Vuitton's craftsmanship. Vivienne Box Red, one piece of 1,150 grams for EU$250 (around HK$2,277) Compartés Above Luxury Grandmaster Chocolate Chess Pieces Set from Compartés (Photo: courtesy of Compartés) Compartés, a chocolate brand founded in 1950, has become renowned for creating fun and visually striking chocolate, thanks to the innovative leadership of chocolatier Jonathan Grahm. One of its standout creations is the Luxury Grandmaster Chocolate Chess Pieces Set, where each piece is meticulously crafted from chocolate, accompanied by a beautiful chessboard box. This lavish set transforms the classic game of chess into an extravagant, edible experience, all packed in a keepsake briefcase. The full chess set in chocolate offers a unique blend of luxury and playful interaction, making it a perfect gift. Luxury Grandmaster Chocolate Chess Pieces Set, one box for US$299.95 (around HK$2,354) Amedei Toscana Above Viaggio from Amedei Toscana (Photo: courtesy of Amedei Toscana) Above Amedei's Viaggio offers 12 pieces of chocolate in different flavours (Photo: courtesy of Amedei Toscana) Founded in 1990 in Tuscany, known as the heart of the Chocolate Valley, Amedei has set its sights on creating exceptional luxury Italian chocolates. This dedication to excellence has earned its products the prestigious Tavoletta d'Oro award, a recognition bestowed by the Compagnia del Cioccolato for outstanding craftsmanship. One of Amedei's distinguished collections is the Viaggio, which comes in a limited and numbered edition, presented in a precious beech wood box. This collection offers a tasting journey of cocoa sourced from Africa and Central America. It includes 12 small pieces in various flavours, such as Toscano Latte milk chocolate and Toscano Bianco white chocolate. Viaggio, one box of 12 pieces for EU$180 (around HK$1,639) Pierre Marcolini Above Pierre Marcolini's Création Cube (Photo: courtesy of Pierre Marcolini) Founded 30 years ago in Kraainem, Belgium, Pierre Marcolini is widely recognised by chocolate lovers as one of the luxury chocolate brands worldwide, thanks to its founder with the same name, who has won nearly 40 patisserie prizes. For those eager to explore a variety of luxurious chocolate tablets, Pierre Marcolini offers the Création Cube. This exquisite selection features eight different chocolate creations, beautifully presented in a box that is perfect for chocolate lovers seeking both discovery and the pleasure of tasting premium chocolates. The collection includes flavours such as salted caramel, casse-noisette, white chocolate, five o'clock pleasure, pecan nut praliné, pistachio praliné and milk chocolate. Création Cube, eight tablets for UK$72 (around HK$774)

From royal silk dresses to digital fashion: the evolution of fashion through the ages
From royal silk dresses to digital fashion: the evolution of fashion through the ages

Tatler Asia

time06-07-2025

  • Tatler Asia

From royal silk dresses to digital fashion: the evolution of fashion through the ages

Dubbed 'The Father of French Haute Couture,' Charles Frederick Worth was a household name among 19th-century elites. Originally from England, he relocated to France in 1845, beginning modestly with a shop selling accessories. His ascent coincided with the rise of the Second French Empire in 1852, a period that brought renewed prosperity and intellectual vibrancy to Paris. By 1858, Worth had founded an exclusive women's tailoring , ouse. Thanks to Austrian Princess Pauline von Metternich, he gained the favour of Empress Eugénie, consort to Napoleon III. From that moment on, his name became synonymous with luxury at the highest echelons of society. Read more: What are luxury brands doing in the face of trade tariffs? Above Princess Metternich, wife of the Austrian ambassador, wore a dress by the couturier Worth Worth introduced the pleated silhouette and brought the billowing gown into fashion, a look that defined women's wear through the 1870s and 1880s. His custom creations were so masterfully made they would later become coveted by collectors and museums, a legacy that endures into the 21st century. Industrial Revolution By the close of the 19th century, fashion began to reach beyond the upper class. While haute couture remained the domain of the elite, more affordable options emerged for the growing middle class. Department stores such as Harrods, Galeries Lafayette, Lord & Taylor and Woodward & Lothrop redefined the shopping experience, transforming it into a physical and social activity. 'Department stores were traditionally women's shopping destinations,' notes Professor Elaine Abelson, author of When Ladies Go A-Thieving: Middle-Class Shoplifters in the Victorian Department Store (1989). 'Most of the items sold there were clothes, hats, and haberdashery. Men's clothing was also sold, but it was not the main item. The men's section usually had a separate entrance from the women's section.' Above Hand-tailored design by Charles Frederick Worth circa 1870 Above An elaborate floral embroidered dress by Charles Frederick Worth, circa 1883 At this turning point, fashion was no longer the preserve of the elite. Shoppers with a shared interest in style could now try on the latest trends in bustling department stores. The demand for ever-changing fashion quickly surpassed the capabilities of manual tailoring, which required time, labour, and significant cost. Designers were under pressure to keep pace. In response, the sewing machine emerged, revolutionising production by shortening stitching time and creating neater, more consistent garments. Wearing designer clothes doesn't always guarantee a beautiful look, but the right outfit, one that reflects your personality, speaks volumes about who you are - Tatler Vietnam - It is unclear who actually invented the first sewing machine. But the earliest design, dated 1790, is credited to Thomas Saint. His patented machine featured a hand crank but existed only in drawings. In 1830, Barthélemy Thimonnier introduced a functioning machine that enabled him to open the world's first dressmaking workshop, producing uniforms for the French army. In 1846, Elias Howe developed what would become the first sewing machine in the United States, significantly improving the design by using a lock stitch, which offered greater durability than the chain stitch seen in earlier models. Above In 1830, Barthélemy Thimonnier invented the sewing machine, which helped him open the world's first clothing factory Mirror of the times Designer Gabrielle Chanel once offered a thought that still lingers: 'The most beautiful colour in the world is the colour that suits you.' Her words can be interpreted in more than one way. It may refer to hues that flatter one's skin tone or suit a particular occasion. But it also speaks to something deeper: the colour of one's personality. Wearing designer fashion may not ensure beauty, but when clothing resonates with one's character, it tells the world who you are. Challenging convention in the pursuit of individuality became the prevailing spirit of fashion in the early 20th century. The growing influence of feminism left its mark on design. Dresses grew less voluminous, corsets were discarded, and sleeves were shortened or removed altogether. One landmark example is the little black dress, introduced by Chanel in 1926—a minimalist, knee-length silhouette that redefined the meaning of black, imbuing it with power and quiet confidence. Above Gabrielle Chanel broke the norm to create transformations in the fashion field in the early 20th century The post-war period ushered in yet another shift in how fashion was imagined. In the late 1940s, material shortages inspired a move towards romanticism, celebrating femininity through delicate, structured detailing. In 1947, Christian Dior, later dubbed the 'designer of dreams,' unveiled his New Look collection, a dramatic departure from the restrained silhouettes of wartime. The Bar jacket, with its sculpted waist and billowing pleated skirt, captured the longing for prosperity and emotional restoration after years of austerity. Above The waist-cinching silhouette is the main highlight of Christian Dior's 'New Look' collection Measured in human terms, fashion in the 1960s and '70s represented adolescence, bold, rebellious, and intent on rewriting the rules. The term 'Youthquake' perfectly captures the cultural energy of the time, where music, art and fashion became tools of expression and liberation. Many designers rejected convention altogether. The movement known as anti-fashion, though a rebellion against aesthetic norms, was still deeply rooted in fashion. By tossing aside traditional proportions and structure, designers made room for radical self-expression. Trends may fade, but style remains timeless - Yves Saint Laurent - In this spirit of defiance, designers of the era embraced fashion as a language of freedom. Mary Quant emerged as a leading figure of the Mod aesthetic. While she never claimed to have invented the miniskirt, she certainly cemented its status as an emblem of youthful irreverence. At the height of the trend, she famously described the ideal hemline as 'about four inches from the buttocks.' In a 1995 interview, she reflected with delight: 'Look at me! They say I have a wonderful life.' Above Mary Quant brought to the fashion world an item that expressed youthful and rebellious personality throughout the 60s Above Mary Quant brought to the fashion world an item that expressed youthful and rebellious personality throughout the 60s The intersection of technology and creative intelligence The influence of technology has deeply transformed how designers engage with their craft. Today, ideas can be brought to life in virtual environments, with artificial intelligence and 3D printing techniques giving rise to trompe l'oeil effects of astonishing realism. A number of designers have distinguished themselves by merging technical innovation with traditional artistry. One such figure is Dutch designer Iris van Herpen, who has pioneered the use of 3D printing in haute couture, a realm that celebrates painstaking craftsmanship and time-honoured skills. In 2010, she unveiled the 'Crystallisation' dress, among the first couture garments to incorporate 3D elements. In collaboration with TU Delft University of Technology, she developed a technique known as Foliage, enabling intricate designs to be printed directly onto delicate, translucent fabrics. Above Iris van Herpen, the Dutch designer who pioneered the integration of 3D printing into haute couture There are now fashion houses operating entirely in the digital realm. One such example is The Fabricant, the world's first digital-only label, which made headlines in 2019 by auctioning a fully virtual dress for US$9,500 just a year after its founding. Created in collaboration with artist Johanna Jaskowska, the surreal garment marked a bold entry into an emerging couture era shaped by technology and imagination. The increasing application of tech in high fashion also highlights another pressing concern: the environment. According to the United Nations Environment Programme, the fashion industry ranks as the second-largest consumer of water and contributes roughly 10 per cent of global carbon emissions, more than all international flights and maritime shipping combined. In response, designers and brands alike are seeking innovative solutions to lighten fashion's environmental footprint. Above Stella McCartney, the high-end fashion designer who uses cutting-edge technology in her fashion, has spent her career proving that ethical choices don't have to come at the expense of luxury When it comes to embracing advanced technology with a conscience, Stella McCartney's name is impossible to overlook. The British designer has long championed sustainability, not as a fleeting trend but as a lasting mission. Her approach blends ethical innovation with elevated design, setting an example for the wider fashion industry. As the creator of the first vegan It Bag—the Falabella, a slouchy faux-leather tote edged in signature silver chain—McCartney has worked to prove that conscious fashion needn't sacrifice style or luxury. But her efforts are far from symbolic. The Stella McCartney brand has outlined concrete goals, including achieving net-zero emissions by 2040. To reach this, it aims to cut greenhouse gas emissions by 75 per cent by 2030, a bold undertaking rooted in a long-term vision for both the planet and the generations to come. Above Technology plays an important role in fashion design practice Fashion design speaks in a language that transcends words. It holds within it the stories of its creators, while simultaneously capturing the aesthetic mood and cultural outlook of its time. To engage with fashion is not merely to admire silhouettes and textures; it is to understand the spirit of an era through the interplay of cut, shape and material. NOW READ Where fabric meets fantasy: The savoir-faire behind Chanel's 2024/25 Métiers d'art collection Indie-sleaze revival: When 'laziness' dominates the fashion playground Protein chic: When a toned body becomes the new aesthetic icon

DOWNLOAD THE APP

Get Started Now: Download the App

Ready to dive into a world of global content with local flavor? Download Daily8 app today from your preferred app store and start exploring.
app-storeplay-store