Latest news with #TomaTerra
New Indian Express
15-05-2025
- Entertainment
- New Indian Express
Toma Terra turns Hyderabad crimson
A crimson cloud hung briefly in the summer air before cascading in splashes across smiling faces, sun-drenched clothes, and camera-ready laughter. Recently, Hyderabad traded its concrete bustle for a burst of red as it hosted 'Toma Terra', a tomato-themed celebration inspired by Spain's iconic 'La Tomatina'. Organised by Odeum By Prism in collaboration with Experium Eco Park, the one-day festival blended music, mayhem, and a deeper message of sustainability and social responsibility. Set against the lush, curated wildness of Experium Eco Park — a 150-acre green sanctuary housing over 25,000 plant species — the event attracted thousands. The venue itself was a natural marvel, with tree-lined trails, thatched huts, and open-air amphitheatres alive with music and colour. By mid-morning, tomatoes squelched under the feet of a vibrant crowd that ranged from exuberant teens to middle-aged software professionals, and even spirited seniors, all revelling in the moment. But the organisers had envisioned Toma Terra as more than a playful spectacle. 'This isn't just about fun,' said Ramadugu Ramdev, CEO of Experium Eco Park, adding, 'We're supporting farmers and reviving ecological awareness.'
Hans India
11-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Hans India
A Guide to Explore about Tomma Terra Festival
Hyderabad is always famous for its culture, food and festivities but this time it is hosting a lively and eco-friendly celebration that will bring a slice of Spain to Toma Terra Festival is encouraged by Spain's famous La Tomatina festival. It is scheduled on May 11, 2025, at Experium Eco Park. This event not only emphasizes sustainability and local cultural integration but is also filled with music, dance, and the exhilarating experience of a tomato-throwing battle. What Does Toma Terra Mean? The name "Toma Terra" is taken from the Spanish phrase ' La Tomatina'. It is a creative adaptation and drawing inspiration from Spanish culture and associated with the tomato-throwing festival. This festival triggers the spirit of communal celebration and playful festivity. The event also aims to capture the essence of joy and togetherness, much like how it is celebrated in Spain.. History Behind the Toma Terra Festival The interest of tomato-throwing festivals gained popularity among Indian audiences after the Bollywood film release of Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara in 2011 where the La Tomatina festival was showcased. We also had attempts to organize similar events in the past but faced criticism over concerns of food wastage, leading to cancellations. However, Toma Terra distinguishes itself by addressing these concerns through sustainable practices, ensuring that the festival is both enjoyable and environmentally responsible. Significance of the Festival Toma Terra represents the fusion of global cultural experiences with location traditions, not just a fun-filled day. By adapting this international festival to the Indian context, fosters cultural exchange and offers a unique platform for community engagement. It also promotes the significance of sustainability, with all tomato waste being converted into organic manure to enrich the grounds of Experium Eco Park, demonstrating a commitment to environmental consciousness. Things to do at Tommo Terra Festival The purpose of the Tomma Terra festival is to provide an engaging experience to the attendees. The event will have following highlights: Tomato-Throwing Battle: Thousands of ripe tomatoes will be used by participants in a lively tomato fight under a controlled and safe environment. Thousands of ripe tomatoes will be used by participants in a lively tomato fight under a controlled and safe environment. Live Music and Dance: To create a vibrant and energetic atmosphere, the organisers will host live DJ sets and dance performances. To create a vibrant and energetic atmosphere, the organisers will host live DJ sets and dance performances. Food and Flea Market: Food is always a main attraction of any festival. A variety of food stalls and a flea market will offer culinary delights and shopping opportunities, adding to the festive ambiance. Food is always a main attraction of any festival. A variety of food stalls and a flea market will offer culinary delights and shopping opportunities, adding to the festive ambiance. Fun Zones- Attendees can also participate in interactive games and activities designed for all age groups. Attendees can also participate in interactive games and activities designed for all age groups. Engaging Photo Booths - Don't forget to capture the madness of Tomma Terra! Attendees will get multiple photo booths with themed backdrops and props for memorable pictures. Don't forget to capture the madness of Tomma Terra! Attendees will get multiple photo booths with themed backdrops and props for memorable pictures. Toddy Bar - Let's understand first what is Toddy? It is a traditional alcohol prepared from fermented sap of palm trees,usually consumed by south indians. The festival will host a toddy bar for attendees who can sample different toddy varieties and learn about the beverage's history and the significance of the South India culture. - Let's understand first what is Toddy? It is a traditional alcohol prepared from fermented sap of palm trees,usually consumed by south indians. The festival will host a toddy bar for attendees who can sample different toddy varieties and learn about the beverage's history and the significance of the South India culture. Sustainability Initiatives: All tomato waste generated during the event will be collected and processed into organic manure, aligning with the festival's eco-friendly objectives. Tommo Terra tickets Organisers have really thought about the attendees pocket and the tickets for the event are priced between ₹499 and ₹3,499, making it accessible to a wide audience. By combining entertainment with environmental responsibility, Toma Terra sets a precedent for how cultural festivals can be both enjoyable and conscientious. Conclusion The Toma Terra Festival in Hyderabad offers a unique opportunity to engage in a global tradition transformed for the Indian context. It celebrates joy, community, and sustainability, promising an unforgettable experience for all who attend.
Hindustan Times
08-05-2025
- Hindustan Times
UK woman shares what it's like to be the only visitor at Taj Mahal: 'Most magical thing I've ever seen'
The Taj Mahal, one of the Seven Wonders of the World, is one of India's most visited landmarks, often bustling with large crowds and long entry lines. But imagine being the first person to step inside and experience its beauty in complete solitude. Travel influencer Krista Jarman, who is originally from UK, recently had that rare experience. She was the very first visitor to step inside the Taj Mahal early in the morning and took to Instagram to share her magical, crowd-free tour with her followers. (Also read: India's first-ever tomato festival 'Toma Terra' draws criticism, internet says 'insensitive to all starving people' ) In her May 7 post, Krista shared the video from her visit along with the caption, "When dreams really do come true. This has to be one of the most magical experiences of my life… running around the Taj Mahal at 5 am like a princess," Krista described the moment as nothing short of surreal. "Just the sound of the birds waking to the rising sun… the Taj Mahal grounds completely empty of tourists… not a soul in sight… it was like a dream," she added. A post shared by Krista Jarman (@kristaslittleadventure) She recalled walking through the East Gate at 4:45 am, being the first in line. Accompanied by her guide Don, she was led through the grand archways and empty marble corridors just as the sky began to lighten. "It was so spectacular to walk through those opening gates… the tall archways leading to the mausoleum shrouded in darkness. As we entered, grand minarets towered high, surrounding an awe-inspiring marble tomb. Truly, truly spectacular," she wrote. Krista shared that she entered through the East Gate at 4:45 am and was the first in line. There, she met a guide named Don who ensured she had the grounds all to herself. "He took us to all of the best photo spots and captured the most incredible pictures for us … honestly, I cried when I realised how beautiful the images were—all taken on my iPhone, no fancy camera." In the video, she can be seen entering the Taj Mahal before sunrise, accompanied by the soft chirping of birds. Her voice echoes with emotion as she says, "This is the most magical thing I've ever seen in my life." She also shared stunning, crowd-free pictures of herself at the iconic monument. For those planning a visit, Krista offered a helpful tip: "Arrive at the East Gate by 4:45 am — the Taj Mahal gates open at 5:00 am."
Hindustan Times
08-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Hindustan Times
India's first-ever tomato festival ‘Toma Terra' draws criticism, internet says ‘insensitive to all starving people'
India is set to host its first-ever tomato festival, 'Toma Terra,' inspired by Spain's famous La Tomatina festival. The event is set to take place at Hyderabad's Experium Eco Park on May 11. While the idea of bringing tomato fight to India seems exciting to some, many on the internet aren't exactly thrilled. People have expressed their disappointment, with many questioning the relevance of hosting such an event in India. Let's take a look at what people have to say about the event. (Also read: Doctor ranks 10 most popular weight loss methods: Ozempic scores 7/10, while this one tops the list ) Toma Terra festival faces backlash online over food waste amid starvation concerns. (File photo) The Instagram post about Toma Terra shared by the page Unstumbed sparked a flurry of critical comments. One user wrote, 'Doesn't sound like a good idea for India. Do we have an excess of tomatoes? We could use them to feed the many people in desperate need of food instead.' Another added, "Why bring a wasteful practice here? We should be championing sustainability instead. People don't have enough water, there are farmer suicides, and you want to waste perfectly good food just so that some people can have fun?" Another commented, "Meanwhile, children and people are starving in different parts of India." Another pointed out, "In a country where more than half the population of billions are starving…" Other users raised hygiene and resource-related issues. "It's a waste of food and resources... and it will be the most unhygienic thing to do in India," one person wrote. Another added, "This seems really terrible and insensitive to all the starving people of India!" About Hyderabad's Toma Terra festival Toma Terra is set to take place on May 11, 2025, at Experium Eco Park in Hyderabad. The event will run from 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM, featuring live music, a large-scale tomato fight, interactive games and food stalls. According to BookMyShow, tickets start at ₹ 499, with premium packages available up to ₹ 3,499. Children under 10 years of age can enter for free when accompanied by a parent or guardian.
Hans India
06-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Hans India
Toma Terra: Hyderabad's Tomato Festival Inspired by ZNMD's Iconic Scene
Get ready to relive Bollywood magic and Spanish traditions as Hyderabad prepares to host its own tomato-throwing fiesta—Toma Terra. Inspired by the globally celebrated La Tomatina in Spain and popularized in India by the film 'Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara' (ZNMD), this lively event is set to take place on May 11 at Experium Park, hosted by Prism Outdoors. Experience the Chaos, Colour, and Culture Toma Terra is more than just tomatoes—it's a full-blown celebration of fun, music, and community. The event promises a day packed with: • Tomato-throwing battles reminiscent of ZNMD • Live performances from top DJs • Flea markets and quirky food stalls • A wild and wacky fun zone for all ages Whether you come for the nostalgia or the novelty, Toma Terra offers a unique way to let loose and make memories. Sustainability at Its Core Addressing past criticisms of food wastage—like the canceled 2013 Patna event—organizers of Toma Terra have ensured an eco-conscious approach. All used tomatoes will be converted into organic compost for the venue's gardens, ensuring that the festival leaves a positive environmental footprint. A Festival for the Future Hyderabad's embrace of global culture through such vibrant events signals its rise as a cultural hub. How attendees respond to this edition could determine whether Toma Terra becomes an annual tradition. So, whether you're in it for the nostalgia, the music, or the mess, get your tickets now—and prepare to paint the town red, the tomato way!
