Latest news with #Morni
Time of India
20-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Time of India
Experience The New Hindi Music Video Morni By Darshan Raval
Get ready to be swept away by the latest hindi song Morni beautifully sung by Darshan Raval. This captivating track feature mesmerizing music is also given by Darshan Raval and beautiful lyrics penned by Siddharth Amit Bhavsar & Darshan Raval . Don't miss the chance to witness Darshan Raval's performance in the captivating hindi video song Morni . Dive into a world of musical excellence by exploring more hindi songs in the music videos section of hindi ETimes. Discover the incredible vocal talents of Darshan Raval. Indulge in the latest hindi video songs of 2025, groove to the soulful compositions by Darshan Raval, immerse in the hindi music video Songs.
News18
13-07-2025
- Entertainment
- News18
Preity Mukundhan: 'I Don't Shy Away From Uncomfortable Growth'
Last Updated: Preity Mukundhan shot to fame with the song Aasa Kooda and has quickly become one of the much-sought-after faces in the South. In three films, actress Preity Mukundhan has already shared screen space with some big names like Prabhas and Akshay Kumar. Two of her three video songs–Aasa Kood and Morni–became chartbusters upon release. Aasa Kooda took the world by storm and Preity became a popular face instantly, and all of this has happened in a matter of few years for the 22-year-old actress from Trichy aka Trichirapalli, who has no roots in the competitive film industry. In this interview, we trace her journey from being a student of NIT to becoming the lead actress in the Pan-Indian project Kannappa. Excerpts from the interview: A girl from Trichy managing to be in a mammoth project in a role that's pretty much present throughout the runtime… how did you get there in a short span? Yes, I am a girl from Trichy who has managed to be in a mammoth project, and I don't know how I got here so soon. I can't credit myself for all of it, some things just find you. But I've always challenged myself and I am always open to growth. Even though I am a person with a lot of inhibitions, I kept putting myself out there. Even if it's uncomfortable growth I don't shy away from it. I keep trying, keep auditioning—I don't think I'll ever stop wanting to learn and grow. Aasa Kooda, Star, Kannappa… you are consistently part of high-impact projects. What's the secret? To put it simply, my secret is that I pour my heart and soul into everything I do, with complete and utter honesty. Please share your journey from an NIT student to becoming a model and now an actor. I was passionate about studies in school and fascinated by maths and physics, which led me to perform well in JEE and that got me into NIT Trichy. But I always had a pull towards the performing arts. I told myself during school that I'd explore every opportunity in arts in college, and modeling was one such pursuit. That experiment led me to discover acting. I had a pull towards it as a craft and I thought 'Why not explore it?' I started auditioning and pitching myself for roles and eventually, I got my first acting opportunity. How do you manage to look at ease among superstars? I might look at ease, but I'm definitely starstruck and in awe of working with such veterans. I kno these people are celebrated and of course, it is all running in my head. But I think I work well under pressure. I try to make that pressure a healthy thing, it helps me focus better and perform better. I end up doing well when there is pressure on me. This mentality of mine really helped me. When your work for a film is demanding or even excruciating, how do you manage to perform? When my work gets really demanding physically and you know, there are times when you really feel like you can't push anymore but I think I remind myself of all the reasons why I want to keep pushing, keep pushing myself. Also, when I observe the set, I realize that all these people are gathered here and I have a responsibility towards my work, and that definitely pushes me to not give up. I take it one day at a time. I tell myself that if I get through today, things will get better. I put in a lot of practice. If I know if some important scenes were being shot, I would just memorise my lines, checking pronunciation with 10 people on set. I really go into a zone and prepare really hard. Nobody can talk to me at that time. Even if they do I will not be able to hear them out. What has been the most challenging physically? I think the weather conditions in which I have shot were the most challenging. Even during action scenes, you tend to hurt and bruise. I actually fractured a finger while shooting an action scene. And the cold was unbearable; I was wearing really skimpy clothes. It was a mental struggle. I had to tell myself that it was okay. I had to breathe and calm myself. So based on the terrain and the nature of the scene, there were a lot of physical challenges. How is Prabhas as a co-star? He has this powerful aura, even in silence, and that's very evident on screen. Every dialogue he said was so intense, and in real life, he is sweet and kind—very gentle, not loud, keeps to himself, but makes everyone around him feel at ease. We all know he is one of the biggest stars in the country, but he doesn't make you feel small. He is just a genuine person who respects everyone with kindness. Tell us about Idhayam Murali. Idhayam Murali is a fun, light-hearted rom-com centered around the connections we form in our school and college years. It's about friendship, love, heartbreaks—a mixed bag of everything. It'll be a beautiful trip down memory lane for many. They will relive those memories watching the film. Tell us about your other projects. I'm currently working on four movies: three in Tamil and one in Malayalam. All of them are set to be released this year. One Tamil movie is with Harish Kalyan, another with Ashok Selvan, and the third is Ithayam Murali with Atharvaa. The Malayalam one is titled Maine Pyaar Kiya. It's a very interesting dark comedy, also starring Hridhu Haroon of All We Imagine As Light fame. It is scheduled for release on August 29. I play the role of a Tamil girl in it, so it's also very much for the Tamil audience. There are two more movies in the pipeline, one of which is a Malayalam project titled Sarvam Maya, with Nivin Pauly in the lead role. Will you now only look for big projects? No, I don't think I'll only look for big projects. My criteria is simple: if I feel the story has heart, and if my role impacts how it plays out–if I can feel the pulse of the story and resonate with it, then that's what I'll go for. view comments First Published: July 13, 2025, 09:26 IST Disclaimer: Comments reflect users' views, not News18's. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.
Arab News
28-06-2025
- Business
- Arab News
MENA firms surge with fresh funding, bold pivots
RIYADH: Startups across the Middle East and North Africa are attracting fresh capital, forging strategic partnerships, and expanding into new verticals as regional innovation gains momentum. Saudi Arabia-based automotive services platform Morni has received new investment from STV via its recently launched $100 million NICE fund. The funding amount remains undisclosed but is expected to support Morni's expansion beyond roadside assistance into a broader automotive services ecosystem. The company now operates in auctions, insurance third-party administration, garages, and parts recycling. Founded in 2015 by Salman Al-Suhaibaney, Morni positions itself as a technology-driven mobility platform at the center of Saudi Arabia's automotive digital transformation. Valu lists on Egyptian Exchange Valu, a buy now, pay later fintech platform founded in 2017 and operating under EFG Hermes Holding, has officially listed its shares on the Egyptian Exchange. The listing was achieved via a non-public, in-kind dividend distribution of 20.49 percent of Valu's share capital by EFG Holding to its shareholders. Amazon has acquired a 3.95 percent stake in Valu at 6.041 Egyptian pounds per share, while EFG Finance Holding retains a 67 percent ownership post-listing. Valu now operates in both Egypt and Saudi Arabia and claims to have captured a 25 percent share of Egypt's consumer finance market. In 2024, Valu reported a 66.5 percent growth in issuances, significantly outpacing the broader market's 31.2 percent growth rate. AppliedAI raises $55m in series A round UK-founded and UAE-based AppliedAI has raised $55 million in an oversubscribed series A round led by G42, Bessemer Venture Partners, and strategic partner e&. Middle East Venture Partners also participated in the round, which will support the company's global expansion and deepen its reach across the MENA region. AppliedAI, founded in 2021 by Arya Bolurfrushan and relocated to the UAE in 2022, uses artificial intelligence to automate the processing of medical billing records and insurance claims — an area typically reliant on slower, manual outsourcing methods. The new capital injection follows a $42 million raise in 2022 from G42 and the Al Maktoum family. The company now plans to strengthen its product offerings and increase partnerships within the UAE's emerging AI ecosystem. Nowlun raises $600k to embed AI in logistics Egyptian logistics startup Nowlun has secured a $600,000 seed round extension led by Ingressive Capital, raising its total funding to $2.3 million. The Cairo-based company provides an online freight forwarding platform that lets users compare and book shipping services tailored to their needs. Founded in 2021 by Moataz Khamis, Mahmoud Khaled, and Ahmed Emara, Nowlun plans to use the funds to scale its AI-powered Smart Logistics Assistant, expand operations across Egypt and Saudi Arabia, and improve decision-making in the region's fragmented shipping industry. 'This is more than just funding; it's a strategic push to embed AI at the core of logistics,' said CEO Moataz Khamis. 'We're building your smart Logistics Assistant — a tool that puts decades of industry expertise in the palm of your hand, helping you make faster, smarter shipping decisions every day.' raises pre-seed funding Egyptian startup has closed a pre-seed funding round led by Qora71, Hub71's angel syndicate, with participation from other regional angel investors. Founded in 2024 by Ahmed Mandour and Yasser Al-Sarrag, provides AI-powered room and flatmate matching services for furnished rentals on flexible leases. The new capital will be used to scale operations in Egypt, enhance the platform's technical capabilities, and expand into new urban centers across the MENA region. The company aims to establish a leading regional co-living brand focused on convenience and compatibility. Related secures $8m in new funding UAE-based loyalty and rewards company Related has raised $8 million in new funding from Saudi investment firm Equivator. Founded in 2014 by Rabih Farhat, Related offers loyalty programs and a digital rewards infrastructure across sectors including telecom, banking, retail, utilities, and entertainment. The investment will be used to roll out AI- and blockchain-based solutions, improve gamification tools, and support expansion into the Saudi market and other territories. Additionally, Related will launch the 'Related Loyalty & Fintech Authority,' a regional forum aimed at advancing policy and knowledge in the loyalty sector. 'We are thrilled to welcome Equivator as a strategic partner on our journey to redefine loyalty and engagement in the region,' said Farhat, CEO of Related, adding: 'This partnership is more than a transaction; it's a transformation, a joint mission to reshape the future of fintech-powered loyalty solutions in line with the Kingdom's innovation agenda.' Netaj launches Iraq-focused venture studio Nawat Iraq-based innovation platform Netaj has launched Nawat, a venture capital studio providing a structured six-month program for 40 early-stage startups. Nawat includes three tracks — ideation, minimum viable product, and early-stage — accompanied by bootcamps, mentorship, and access to capital. The studio offers hybrid investments combining in-kind support of $10,000–$25,000 and direct capital of $25,000–$250,000 via convertible notes or equity. Nawat expects to back five to 10 high-potential companies with the aim of building scalable, investor-ready businesses capable of regional growth. Aria Ventures commits $1m to early-stage deep tech Cairo-based venture studio Aria Ventures has launched a $1 million investment initiative to support early-stage deep tech startups in Egypt over 2025–2026, with plans to increase this to $4 million over four years. The studio focuses on startups in AI, robotics, biotechnology, and other science-intensive sectors. Aria Ventures' approach involves end-to-end company building — offering support from ideation to product development, infrastructure, legal, and commercialization. This is complemented by strategic capital deployment aimed at turning pioneering research into scalable, investor-ready businesses. The studio recently introduced the DeepTecher competition to identify high-potential innovations that can be developed into viable companies. Winners will receive investment and access to Aria's venture-building resources. Talenteo raises undisclosed investment to expand in Francophone Africa Algerian human resources tech startup Talenteo has secured an undisclosed six-figure investment from Tunisia-based 216 Capital. Founded in 2022 by Tarik Metnani and Louai Djaffer, Talenteo provides HR and payroll management software tailored to African SMEs and mid-sized companies. The new funding will be used to support Talenteo's entry into Tunisia, accelerate product development, and facilitate expansion across Francophone Africa. The company aims to offer comprehensive HR solutions for a region often underserved by enterprise-grade platforms.
Time of India
26-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Time of India
In a world full of performances, authenticity has become rare currency: Raftaar gets real about betrayal on 'The Traitors'
One of the most popular rappers in the Indian hip-hop scene, Raftaar, is also going to be starring in the new and upcoming variety show 'The Traitor'. Hailing from Trivandrum, Kerala, the actor is well known for his multifaceted projects. From working as a music producer, lyricist, singer, rapper, and even a dancer as well as an actor! Some of his most popular songs include but are not limited to 'Morni', 'Dhaakad', 'Legacy', 'Ghana Kasoota', and 'Baby Marvaake Manegi'. He's known for his fierce verses, high-octane stage energy, and unapologetic authenticity . From underground hip-hop battles to chart-topping anthems, Raftaar has long been a name synonymous with hustle, evolution, and self-made stardom. But recently, the rapper-singer explored a very different stage—one filled with alliances, suspicion, and strategy—as a contestant on the gripping reality show ' The Traitors ' on Prime Video. In an exclusive chat with ETimes, Raftaar opens up about his time on the show, the emotional undercurrents of betrayal , and the real-life parallels he couldn't ignore. His words are candid, reflective, and—like his music—hit hard. Participating in the gripping psychological game show 'The Traitors', Raftaar found himself surrounded by suspicion, strategy, and the sting of betrayal. Though his stint on the show was brief, it left a deep impact—and he's now ready to talk about it. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like เทรด CFDs ด้วยเทคโนโลยีเทรดสุดล้ำ และ รวดเร็วกว่า IC Markets สมัคร Undo 'The experience, though short, was truly enriching,' he says. 'It pushed me out of my comfort zone and gave me a chance to engage with people in a completely new environment. Sometimes, the shortest chapters in our lives end up teaching us the most powerful lessons.' One of the most striking elements of 'The Traitors' is the real-time betrayal that forms the show's core. While Raftaar was aware of this going in, living through it was something else entirely. 'Even though betrayal is a known part of the format, feeling it in real time still hits hard,' he admits. 'I've always valued transparency and loyalty, and when that gets tested, it stays with you. But I get it—everyone's just trying to survive in the game in their own way. In a world full of performances, authenticity has become rare currency.' This theme of betrayal, he reveals, isn't confined to the screen. It's something he has dealt with off-screen too, especially during his formative years in the music industry. 'There were moments when I was trying to figure things out, trusting people, building something from scratch—and some of those bonds didn't last,' he reflects. 'It hurt. But over time, I've learned that not every bond is meant to last. And that's okay. Not every closed door is a betrayal—some are actually redirections.' During the show, Raftaar also shared space with filmmaker Karan Johar , who served as the host. Despite their different creative paths, Raftaar holds Karan in high regard. 'My rapport with Karan Sir has always been warm and respectful. He belongs to a different creative universe, but he's built an empire through vision and hard work. Whenever we've interacted, it's been rooted in mutual appreciation.' Would he consider going back to the show as a wild card? The answer is a confident yes—but not for reasons one might expect. 'I'd definitely be open to it. The goal is not to impress anyone, but to approach the game with a new perspective. Once you've lived through it, your understanding evolves. And when the mind knows better, the strategy naturally shifts.' When asked about the biggest lesson he took away from the show, Raftaar doesn't hesitate. 'To never doubt my instincts. In that house, everything is heightened—emotions, energy, suspicion. It becomes very easy to question your own judgment. But your gut rarely lies. I've learned that silence is often louder than words, especially in rooms full of whispers.' And if he were to imagine Bollywood actors in 'The Traitors' universe? 'I wouldn't divide them into heroes and traitors,' he says thoughtfully. 'I'd look for those with depth—people who carry both calm and chaos within them. The game isn't about black and white. It's about layers. That's where the real magic lies.' From decoding people to decoding beats, Raftaar continues to evolve—unapologetically and on his own terms. Whether on stage, in a reality show, or just in life, he proves that instincts, integrity, and individuality will always be his core rhythm.
Wamda
23-06-2025
- Automotive
- Wamda
STV backs Morni via its newly launched NICE fund
Saudi Arabia-based automotive services platform Morni has raised an investment from STV, via its newly launched $100 million NICE fund. Founded in 2015 by Salman Alsuhaibaney, Morni is a tech-first mobility platform transforming automotive services in Saudi Arabia. The undisclosed investment will support Morni's evolution from a roadside assistance provider to an integrated ecosystem spanning auctions, insurance TPA, garages, and parts recycling. In 2020, Morni closed a Series B round at $9.1 million. press release: STV, MENA's largest independent technology venture capital fund, has invested in Morni, a Saudi tech-enabled automotive services platform, from its newly launched $100 million NICE fund. The undisclosed backing reflects STV's confidence in Morni's vision as the company expands beyond its roots in roadside assistance to an integrated platform – now spanning roadside assistance, vehicle auctions, insurance third-party administration, and a nationwide network of garages and spare parts dismantling facilities. Anchored by proprietary technology and a dedicated technology hub, Morni is building Saudi Arabia's most comprehensive automotive services ecosystem. The company is focused on delivering seamless, end-to-end solutions that serve drivers, insurers, and partners across the entire vehicle ownership lifecycle. Recent milestones include: ● UAE market launch ● Expansion of its digitally connected garage network to 75 facilities across the Kingdom ● Strategic leadership hires and a doubling of workforce to support regional growth Salman Alsuhaibaney, Chairman and CEO of Morni, commented, "This partnership with STV comes at a defining moment as we transition to scaled execution. Our tech-enabled solutions are already delivering measurable impacts – as demonstrated by a 5-minute first notification of loss (FNOL) response time. With STV's support through a swiftly executed NICE structure that enables efficient scaling while preserving strategic flexibility, we will accelerate Saudi Arabia's mobility transformation and directly contribute to Vision 2030's road safety and quality of life goals.' Abdulrahman Alageel at STV added, "Morni is not only addressing the current needs of drivers and insurers but is building the infrastructure for an end-to-end integrated and tech-enabled automotive value chain, with the core mission of a better car ownership journey for consumers. We believe in Morni's potential to drive sector-wide transformation in a sector that has traditionally struggled with inefficiencies."
