Skip to content Skip to footer
10K80 September 14, 2021
1View 0Comments

‘Things We Lost in the Fire’ reflects Armani White’s personal loss and growth

The peaks and valleys of life are a familiar friend. It is through trials and tribulations that we become the greatest version of ourselves. Philadelphia-based rapper, Armani White can attest to this. His latest EP, Things We Lost In the Fire, is a testament to his personal experience with loss and growth.

This project draws on a range of emotions. From guilt to depression, from agony to gratitude. Armani explores a range of emotions to cope, and eventually learn from painful moments burned in his memories.

Things We Lost In the Fire provides listeners with a spark of light to overcome the endless night. Armani shares his story, in his own words, of perseverance, acceptance, and abundance.

The story behind ‘Things We Lost In The Fire’

At my lowest points, I will never forget my mother’s words…

The Lord is either gonna walk us through the fire or around it. But either way, we will get through it.

Things We Lost In the Fire is a tribute to the events that have forever changed the course of our lives, including my own, in tragic ways that can only be described by the phoenix that came from them.

In 2006, I lost 4 close family members in a house fire that forever changed my life. My one cousin survived and was rescued on the roof crying for help.

In 2020, 14 years later, I found myself on a roof fighting my own house fire and consoling my family.

Several weeks later, my frequent collaborator, Kelly Portis, passed away from a fire at his studio.

Throughout the remainder of 2020, we spent time in jail and fighting wrongfully accused criminal arson charges until the case was withdrawn this past June. Broken down by the Stages of Grief and our circumstances, I leaned heavily on one of my favorite quotes,

When you’re going through hell, Keep going!

With the memories of our loved ones, the fire represents the energy that never dies. The clay pieces of ourselves were hardened by the process. We light this candle to commemorate the Things We Lost In the Fire.

The Music

If there’s one thing that Armani White consistently delivers with each of his projects, it’s storytelling. With Things We Lost In the Fire, Armani seamlessly translates the gravity of his personal loss into passionate lyrics and mellow instrumentals. The combination of poetic speech, vibrant visuals, and soulful beats is a style that Armani has tenuously crafted throughout his career. Check out his latest masterpiece below.

Too Many Angels
Watch Your Self
Danny Mac
Grateful
Melinda

The Mission

The Things We Lost In the Fire EP is more than music. It’s a mission rooted in music. Armani’s rollout for this project coincides with Mental Health Awareness. His experience with depression and overcoming it through gratitude has led him to create two distinct campaigns. Peep both of his creative projects addressing mental health below.

TWLIF Candle Campaign

Things We Lost in The Fire is about everyone’s personal losses and growth. Armani and his team sent cards out to their music partners, friends, and selected influencers. They’ll light the candle and write an intention (something they’ve given up to grow or someone they lost during a troubling time in their life) and burn the card in an IG post (Playing their favorite song from the EP). Extra cards were sent out to selected fans for them to do the same.

Support for Mental Health

Backline and the Black Mental Health Alliance have partnered with Armani White to support a raw and recorded Therapy session between him and a trusted black therapist in their network. The content will cover the aftermath of these fires and support the growth of mental health, with the mission being to encourage black people to understand therapy is okay.

Destruction and Creation.

Fire can do both.

The choice is yours.

Peep the full Things We Lost In the Fire EP on all streaming platforms.

10K80 May 27, 2021
2Views 0Comments

Smart Eye Technology CEO tells us the importance of cybersecurity

Cyber Security is a critical industry that is experiencing tremendous growth. With the rise of digital art, NFTs, and cryptocurrency there is an ever-looming threat of cyber theft. Entrepreneur Dexter Caffey is leading Smart Eye Technology through the robust landscape of cybersecurity.

Smart Eye Technology is a cybersecurity company focused on biometrically authenticated document viewing and access. In the creative world, it is of the utmost importance to protect one’s work from theft of intellectual property, unauthorized duplication, and other malicious acts.

dexter caffey
Dexter Caffey on the left. (Credit: Smart Eye Technology)

Kulture Hub had the pleasure of interviewing Founder and CEO Dexter Caffey on how his company can support the creatives of today for tomorrow. Check out the Q&A interview below.

Beginnings

Kulture Hub: How did you become interested in Cyber Security?

Dexter Caffey: While on a business trip to Israel in the fall of 2017, I attended a cybersecurity conference. As I chatted with another conference attendee who was a cybersecurity expert, I happened to glance at the man’s laptop screen and saw open word documents and PDF files. I wondered:

Why should I be able to see any document on this guy’s laptop? It’s none of my business. What if I could create an app that prevented anyone else from seeing what’s on my screen? An app that would look at their face and say, ‘Nope, I only recognize Dexter’s face. We’re blocking you out.’

Dexter Caffey
dexter caffey
Dexter Caffey attends CyberTech Global Conference and Exhibition (Credit: Smart Eye Technology)

More on Smart Eye Technology

KH: The squad. The gang. The team. However you want to call it.  Who are they and how have they supported you on your entrepreneurial journey with Smart Eye Technology this past year?

DC: We have a business team in Atlanta that brings all of the aspects of the business together. I couldn’t possibly do it by myself. They handle marketing, customer experience, sales, strategy, and more. We have a development team in Israel that supports us with R&D. 

smart eye technology
Dexter Caffey and the Smart Eye Technology Team (Credit: Smart Eye Technology)

KH: What sector of the economy do you envision Smart Eye Tech to be most useful in? Who does your product cater to (the ideal customer)?

DC: Smart Eye Technology would be useful for HR departments, or any organizations sending out confidential information like bonuses, pay increases, and payments. Instead of emailing this information, they could send it through Smart Eye, so the only person who can see it is the person it is being sent to.

Other industries like the real estate industry could utilize Smart Eye Technology when they are sending wiring instructions. This way wiring instructions cannot be intercepted by hackers via email. Sending it through Smart Eye, only the person receiving the instructions can see it. 

Cyber security amidst the rise of NFTs and other digital assets

KH: With the rise of digital art, NFTs, and cryptocurrency, how is Smart Eye Tech positioned to protect such assets from theft or “fake digitals?”

DC: We have a new functionality coming in the next 3 months, the Smart Eye Password Vault, that allows passwords for digital art and cryptocurrency to be protected inside of Smart Eye. So, if you have cryptocurrency it can be protected by your biometrics such as your face, voice, and fingerprint. The file that is uploaded on Smart Eye is protected inside of our cloud environment with AES 256 encryption. 

smart eye technology

Protecting creatives from harm

DC: This is very important because people are worried about music being stolen, leaked, or copied. When people are sharing music files through Smart Eye, the only people who have access are the people you sent it to. You can control who can download or share the file. If you don’t want someone to be able to download or share the file, you can give them access to just the music or movie file for them to view or listen to. 

KH: Can you describe in detail any instances where Smart Eye Technology has been a solution or acted as a safety solution?

DC: We have a company using Smart Eye Technology that was a victim of email phishing fraud. 

A hacker pretended to be the person who was receiving a wire from them. The emails were intercepted and the hacker added their own wiring instructions. Around $20,000 was intercepted. Now, they send wiring instructions through the Smart Eye Technology platform and can feel safe knowing that their information and money are safe. 

The future of Smart Eye Technology

KH: The Post-Covid world is a mystery based on our history, what plans do you have for Smart Eye Technology’s growth? How will it evolve? What’re you looking forward to as an entrepreneur?

DC: In early June, Samsung will be bringing Smart Eye Technology to their Samsung AppStack Marketplace which will help small and medium-sized businesses combat security threats. We have plans for new features like group capabilities where specific teams like marketing can send documents confidentially amongst each other. Other large publicly traded companies will be using our technology to secure their files and decrease security risks. 

I am looking forward to people on airplanes or in coffee shops feeling extremely confident knowing they are the only ones that can physically see the documents on their screen. There have been many times I have been at coffee shops and have seen sensitive data on people’s laptops. If they have Smart Eye Technology on their desktop, they can pick up their coffee and walk away knowing the screen will be blocked and that data won’t be leaked. 

kid giving the thumbs up

Surviving as an entrepreneur

KH: What’s one thing you need as an entrepreneur to survive?

DC: Relationships with small to medium businesses are crucial for our survival.  

smart eye technology
The Smart Eye Tech Team visiting Ben-Gurion University of the Negev (Credit: Smart Eye Technology)

KH: What do you think the Post-COVID world will look like for creatives (specifically in the digital realm)? What opportunities can creatives of color capitalize on moving forward within the digital space?

DC: Post-covid there will be many new innovative ways to have a hybrid work environment. There will be work-from-home solutions as well as office solutions. We will be seeing more remote technologies emerging as we shift the norms of work environments. 

Creatives of color should focus on things that they know and understand. There must be passion and drive behind their decisions.

smart eye technology
Dexter Caffey enthusiastically showcasing Smart Eye Technology to Atlanta Tech Park. (Credit: Smart Eye Technology)

KH: General thoughts, shoutouts, or anything else you want to put out there?

DC: You can get Smart Eye Technology at a discounted rate through Samsung AppStackon June 1st. Smart Eye Technology desktop app versions are available for Windows and macOS in the Samsung AppStack Marketplace. Visit our site to learn more: https://smarteyetechnology.com/.

Belarus May 21, 2021
3Views 0Comments

Ruined palaces make a comeback in Budget Direct’s newest project

The lavish lifestyles of royal families are symbolized through the palaces they called home. Across the globe, palaces have been built to establish the ruling party’s influence over a region, though many are ruined today.

Two famous examples of ruling party’s lavish palaces are the Palace of Versailles in France and Buckingham Palace in England. The palaces have maintained their grandeur through centuries of maintenance, rehabilitation, and security.

But what about the palaces that were not as fortunate?

What about the ruined palaces that were just as majestic?

Budget Direct’s project to restore 7 ruined palaces

Budget Direct has once again partnered with Kulture Hub to reconstruct 7 ruined palaces from across the world. Similar to the reconstruction of the 6 lost Asian castles feature, Budget Direct has commissioned a team of architects and graphic designers for this project.

Exploring history’s most opulent residences is a luxurious trip back in time. Think Airbnb meets a time machine meets MTV Cribs. So tap in below for 7 ruined palaces digitally reconstructed from around the world.

Ruzhany Palace, Belarus

Location: Ruzhany, Belarus
Year: 1770s
ruined palace
Ruzhany Palace digital restoration (via Budget Direct)

The Sapieha family built Ruzhany Palace in the 1770s over the site of their earlier castle. The noble family was power-brokers of the Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth.

Aleksander Michal Sapieha, the nobleman of the family, employed architect Jan Samuel Beckor of Saxony (German state). Sapieha and Beckor then worked together to establish Ruzhany’s famed theatre that employed 100 performers. The palace also possessed a famous library and picture collection.

In 1831, the Pines family leased the palace as a textile factory, bringing wealth to the local Jewish community. Ruzhany’s palace, the Jewish community, and political independence all came to a violent end during World War II.

Today, the region is controlled by Belarus which has begun restoring Ruzhany to its former glory.

https://youtu.be/DJG835FnHIM

Dungur Palace / “Palace of the Queen of Sheba,” Ethiopia

Location: Aksum, Ethiopia
Year: 6th century
budget direct
Dungur Palace digital restoration (via Budget Direct)

Dungur Palace, also known as Queens of Sheba’s Palace, is located Ethiopian village of Aksum. The former bustling capital of an African empire (the Kingdom of Aksum) spanned from southern Egypt to Yemen.

The 6th-century palace houses over a 50 room layout that includes a bathing area, kitchen, and even also a possible throne room. Little is known about the history of the building itself though.

During an excavation, a discovery revealed carvings of a “beautiful woman”. This has fueled hope that the remains of the queen’s real residence may hide beneath Dungur.

Knossos Palace, Greece

Location: Knossos, Crete
Year: Circa 1700 BC
ruined palace
Knossos Palace is digitally restored in all its grandeur (via Budget Direct)

Constructed circa 1700 BC, Knossos is the oldest palace on this list by over three millennia. Knossos Palace sits on what is considered to be the oldest city in Europe, Crete. The palace served as a center for politics, economics, and also religion for the mysterious Minoan civilization.

The courtyard was located in the center of the palace and provided access to luxurious amenities. This included the throne room, a central palace sanctuary, and also a residential quarter.

Knossos survived invasions, fires, and earthquakes before being destroyed circa 1375 BC. Modern-day scholars have confirmed that the group who occupied Knossos after the Minoans were called the Mycenaeans.

Sans Souci, Haiti

Location: Near Milot, Haiti
Year: 1811
ruined palace
Sans Souci Palace is once again an awe-inspiring sight thanks to digital restoration (via Budget Direct)

The principal royal residence of King Henry I is a “carefree” place amid the luscious mountains of northern Haiti. Better known as the Revolutionary general, Henry Christophe, led the Haitian Revolution that won independence from France. He then promptly declared himself king over northern Haiti in 1811.

The palace housed the king, the queen (Queen Marie-Louise), their family, advisors, and also royal staff. San Souci thus serves as an icon of Haiti’s independence and national identity. The grandeur of this palace is so majestic that it is called the ‘Versailles of the Caribbean.’

Unfortunately, a powerful earthquake in 1842 destroyed the majority of the palace and then was never rebuilt.

Qal’eh Dokhtar, Iran

Location: Fizurabad, Iran
Year: Before 224 AD
budget direct
History reveals itself as Qal’eh Dokhtar is digitally reconstructed (via Budget Direct).

Ardašīr I and his cohort built this “barrier fortress” during his 3rd century founding of the Sasanian Empire in Iran. The fortress sits on a mountain slope near Firouzabad-Kavar road in Fars Province – also known as the southwest of Iran.

This third-century fortress housed his royal residence on the third floor but was eventually replaced by a greater palace he built nearby (Palace of Ardashir). Qal’eh Dokhtar fortification technically classifies it as a castle, not a palace. However, with architectural elements that project such grandeur, who cares what it’s classified as?

Qal’eh Dokhtar boasts perhaps the earliest example of an Iranian chartaq—a square of four arches supporting a dome.

This nearly 1,800-year-old castle has thus endured the test of time. Experts suggest that if urgent maintenance measures must be enforced or the castle may soon crumble.

Husuni Kubwa, Tanzania

Location: Kilwa Tanzania
Year: 14th Century
ruined palace
East Africa’s Husuni Kubwa Palace is brought back to life (via Budget Direct).

This palace is a ruined structure on the island of Kilwa Kisiwana in Tanzania. The Palace of Husuni Kubwa is also known as the “Great Fort”.

Kilwa Kisiwani was one of the most important sultanates in the “Swahili Coast’ trade network. It linked East Africa to the Arabic world. Gold and ivory passed out of its ports, while Chinese silk and porcelain flowed in for over 300 years. Sultan al-Hasan ibn Sulaiman commissioned the palace to be built on this crucial crossroad.

Husuni Kubwa was built from coral stone that overlooked the Indian Ocean. There were three major sections of the palace: a commerce court in the south, a residential complex that housed over 100 rooms, and then a grand stairway leading to a mosque on the beach.

Husuni Kubwa was occupied for a short time before being abandoned.

Clarendon Palace, UK

Location: Wiltshire, UK
Year: 12th century
Digital restoration of Clarendon Palace in Salibury, England (via Budget Direct).

This palace was a royal residence for kings Henry II and Henry III respectively. During the Middle Ages, this palace was the site for Assize of Clarendon.

This was the 1164 act of King Henry II that put into motion trials by jury, a common law that is the foundation for countries worldwide. This act also produced a set of legislative guidelines known as the Constitutions of Clarendon.

Henry III also expanded the palace, commissioning a carved fireplace and stained glass chapel. By the 1400s, Clarendon was then an expansive royal complex. It remained a favorite retreat of monarchs until the Tudor era, when the high cost of upkeep resulted in its rapid decline. Today, only a single wall remains above ground.

The importance of Budget Direct’s reconstruction of ruined palaces

Digital creativity is truly a mesmerizing trait. A digital link to the past via GIFs is also a medium for historical architectural experiences today. What could it possibly look like in the future?

Perhaps an AR/VR tour of historical wonders is also in the works somewhere out there.

As the world opens up slowly, but surely, those fortunate to travel now have royal options for their adventures.

alamut castle April 19, 2021
3Views 0Comments

Why we’re here for architects restoring 6 Asian castles

Experiencing history is akin to taking a trip back in time. Time travel if you will. There are a variety of ways to do so. One could open up a history book, watch a documentary, or visit a museum. Another way could be experiencing a collaboration of graphics designers and architects reconstruct ruined Asian castles.

Budget Direct has commissioned a team of graphic designers and architects to reconstruct six lost Asian castles. Spanning from Iran all the way to Japan, this restoration team used the existing ruins and then produced an accurate depiction of these Asian castles.

Kulture Hub was fortunate enough to team up with Budget Direct on this project to shed some light on the history and beauty of these lost Asian Castles. So tap in below for some of history’s finest Asian castle architecture.

Citadel of Ghazni, Ghazni, Afghanistan

Citadel of Ghazni
Citadel of Ghazni digital restoration (via Budget Direct)

This 13th-century medieval fortress is located in east-central Afghanistan.

The citadel surrounded the town of Ghazni to form a walled city. Its 147-foot walls and towers dominate the Ghazni skyline.

Over the centuries, the citadel experienced many battles, political instability, and natural deterioration. One major battle that nearly destroyed the citadel was the battle of Ghazni during the first Anglo-Afghan war in 1839.

Today, the citadel is at risk for a total collapse. In June 2019, one of the large towers completely collapsed due to heavy rains, the proximity of a major road, and a fierce battle with Taliban militants.

Yuanming Yuan (The Old Summer Palace), Beijing, China

Yuanming Yuan (The Old Summer Palace)
Yuanming Yuan is digitally restored in all its grandeur (via Budget Direct).

Originally called the Imperial Gardens, Yuanming Yuan was more than a castle. It was a 3.5 square kilometer complex that featured palaces and gardens.

The complex was founded in 1709 by then Emperor Kangxi and was gifted to his fourth son, Emperor Yongzheng. It was an opulent symbol of China.

The palace had the grandest splendor of its day. Marbled palaces, stately temples, pools, extensive gardens, fountains, swans, and also peacocks accentuated the grandeur of this palace. The palace was summed up as such:

“…the thousand and one dreams of the thousand and one nights’ built by ‘architects who are poets.'”

China Highlights

The palace complex was destroyed by British and French forces during the Second Opium War. The Boxer Rebellion and Cultural Revolution also contributed to transforming the palace of grandeur into a pit of ruin.

Raigad Fort, Raigad, Maharashtra, India

Asian castle Raigad Fort
Maratha Empire’s Raigad Fort digital restoration (via Budget Direct).

This hill fort is known as the strongest fortress in the Deccan Plateau.

Raigad Fort (King’s Fort) is located in Mahad, the Raigad district of Maharashtra, a region in western India. The fort is also situated 823 meters above sea level (a climb of 1737 steps), lying above the Sahyadri mountain range.

It was seized in 1656 by Shivaji Bhonsale I, an Indian ruler and a member of the Bhonsle Maratha clan.

Shivaji then commissioned chief architect and engineer Hiroji Indulkar to renovate and expand the fort to include a palace and other royal amenities. This seizure and renovation thus marked the beginning of the Maratha Empire that would remain in power through the early 19th century.

Then, in 1765, the British East India Company launched an armed campaign to capture and destroy Raigad Fort.

This campaign lasted until 1818 when the fort was bombarded by nearby British canons. A treaty was signed in which the Maratha Empire relinquished control of the fort to the British East India Company. The British looted and destroyed the fort.

Today, Raigad fort is a major tourist attraction. Visitors can forgo the 1737 steps to reach the fort by using an aerial tramway. Two of the three watchtowers survived the bombardment and are also available for tourists to enjoy.

Alamut Castle, Alamut Valley, Iran

alamut asian castle
Origin of Assassins. Alamut Castle digital restoration (via Budget Direct).

This mountain fortress is located south of the Caspian Sea in the Alamut region of northern Iran.

Alamut Castle was originally built in the ninth century by the Wahsūdān ibn Marzubān, the Justanid ruler of Daylam at the time.

The site was chosen for its tactical location sitting on an elevated rock formation. The word ‘Alamut’ roughly translates to “eagle’s nest” or also “Nest of Punishment” in Persian.

In 1090, Hassan-i Sabbah conquered the impenetrable fortress. His followers were known to carry out attacks against enemy factions and were also known as “Hashashin,” which is the origin of the word “Assassin.”

Fans of the Assassin’s Creed franchise will recognize this castle as the real-life version of Alamut Temple.

This fortress was home to institutions of higher knowledge. Specifically, Alamut housed an extensive library full of literature, astronomy, math, philosophy, and alchemy. The castle was destroyed by Mongolian invaders in the 13th century.

Hagi Castle, Hagi, Japan

Hagi Asian Castle
Digital restoration of Hagi Castle in Northern Japan (via Budget Direct).

Mori Terumoto constructed the Hagi Castle in 1604.

The defeat of the Mori clan at the Battle of Sekigahara in 1600 forced the Mori clan to shift their main castle to Hagi. The strategic location on the coast of the Sea of Japan and Mount Shizuki would serve as the backdrop for the Hagi Castle.

The Hagi Castle was then brought down in 1874 under the Castle Abolition Law. The legislation sought to limit the power of feudal lords and centralize the power into the hands of the ruling Meiji elite.

Today, the walls, moats, and foundation are what’s left of the castle. The ruins still lay in the pleasant Shizuki Park in the northwest section of Hagi.

Takeda Castle, Asago, Hyōgo, Japan

Takeda Castle
Takeda Castle floating in the sky (via Budget Direct).

Takeda-jo-seki (Takeda Castle Ruins) is located in Asago City, Hyogo prefecture, a region in western Japan.

Takeda Castle is known as the “castle floating in the sky.” In some circles, it is also referred to as the Machu Picchu of Japan.

The castle was originally built in the mid-15th century and conquered by the “Great Unifier” of Japan, Toyotomi Hideyoshi. His unification of Japan occurred during one of the darkest centuries of Japan’s history, the Sengoku period.

During the Battle of Sekigahara, the castle’s forces battled the Tokugawa clan. Then, the clan’s leader, Tokugawa Ieyasu, and his forces managed to conquer the castle.

This victory initiated the Tokugawa shogunate rule over Japan for more than two and a half centuries. Takeda castle was abandoned and left without maintenance measures. It thus crumbled down to its stone foundations.

Today, Takeda-jo-seki sits 353 meters above sea level. The stone foundation was repaired in the late 20th century and is also even open for tourism. During some mornings, the seasonal fog fills the valley where the castle stands. This thus makes for a majestic scenery of a “castle in the sky.”

History is yesterday’s story and also the basis for tomorrow’s mystery.

By indulging in the past, one can also find the keys to the future. Both of those aspects then come together to create one’s own story.

The story behind each of these Asian castles is a tale of creation, destruction, and now, resurrection.

Creatives that use their talent for sharing historical information are thus invaluable. The team behind these six Asian Castle restorations are classified as such.

armani blanco March 19, 2021
3Views 0Comments

‘Grateful’ is Armani White’s tribute to a tumultuous past

Armani White’s evolution as an artist is duly noted in his new single, ‘Grateful’. The West Philly rapper pulls back the curtain to reveal a little more about his life experiences. “Grateful” also stays true to his storytelling style of music.

https://twitter.com/armaniblanco/status/1371101517923631108?s=20

The momentous success from Armani’s previous single, “Danny Mac“, carries over into this new single. “Grateful” is rooted in tragedy turned into growth.

Throughout the record, Armani takes time to reflect on his losses and how he then transformed them into lessons. These lessons inevitably turned into triumphant celebrations. He describes his experience with gratitude,

My entire life has felt like a series of blessings and curses no one could’ve prepared for. I spent so much time blaming myself for things that went wrong, I forgot to blame myself for all the things that went right. There were so many blessings sent as reminders that I’m on the right path, I can only be grateful that I’m still here and able to receive all of it. 

Armani White

The inspiration behind ‘Grateful’

‘Grateful’ is a soulful reminder that for every bad thing that happens in life, something good will follow. The harmonious choir and soothing background vocals perfectly balance the vulnerable undertone of this track.

The song’s dialogue is also drawn from a painful life experience. Armani touches on a fatal house fire from his childhood where he lost four family members and explores how it’s molded him through the years. He thus defines “Grateful” as:

The song focused so much on the things that have kept me grounded throughout the years, it felt important to me that the music expressed those same roots.

Armani White

The past year has produced many grateful moments for Armani White. For starters, Armani brought in the 2021 New Year by performing at the Virtual NYE Times Square Concert. He double dipped his NYC opportunity by featuring himself on a Times Square billboard.

armani white
Armani White gearing up for the 2021 Virtual NYE concert. Courtesy of Jamestown

Armani White is on the rise

The gratitude tour continued during the days leading up to the Super Bowl. 2019 Super Bowl Champion and MVP Patrick Mahomes featured Armani’s song “2maro” as his featured track for his pump-up before Super Bowl LV.

Another opportunity also presented itself to Armani when he became the voice-over actor for GoDaddy’s “Make a Different Future” viral ad campaign.

https://youtu.be/dM0fRkEAvKI

His most recent blessing then came as recently as today.

The NBA announced a partnership with Armani White that pairs the release of ‘Grateful’ with the NBA’s “Earned Jersey” campaign.

This collab features earned edition jerseys for teams who earned a spot in the 2020 playoffs. The jerseys also celebrate each franchise’s colors, logos, heritage, and more.

“Grateful” is an ode to the triple-loop, double-corkscrew roller coaster known as life. The good and the bad are part of the experience. Armani White also expresses gratitude like no other artist in today’s industry.

Peep Armani White’s latest hit single, “Grateful”, below.

Keep up with Armani White on his social media 

Twitter

Instagram

YouTube

Kanye West
jay z March 3, 2021
9Views 0Comments

Why does Kanye love architecture so much? We investigate his obsession

Kanye West is a creative icon, and architecture is just another one of his creative obsessions.

His imagination has elevated the music and fashion industry through his ventures: G.O.O.D. Music and Yeezy brand. His obsession has also enabled him to become an industry leader. Now, Kanye seems to have found himself a new obsession: architecture.

It was only natural for Ye to walk down this path. He has a sixth sense for transforming the five senses into art. Everything he has done can be translated into a transcendental experience through harmonious compositions.

Sight and feel were fused to create a new age of fashion. Now, Yeezy Homes is the latest project to accentuate the senses.

https://twitter.com/kanyewest/status/1323643421601378306?s=20

For the past few years, Ye has taken inspiration from some of the world’s most renowned architects and interior designers. Thus, Kulture Hub takes a look into who and what inspired Ye’s newfound obsession.

Rem Koolhaas

The famed Dutch architect is the founder of OMA, one of the world’s top architecture firms. He is also known to be one of the most significant architectural thinkers of his generation.

His peers believe so as well by awarding him the Pritzker Prize, the most esteemed architectural recognition in the world.

Ye’s architectural influence still simply comes from the best. His first collaboration with Koolhaas came during the 2012 Cannes Film Festival. The 7 Screen Pavilion housed Kanye’s debut short film, Cruel Summer.

7 Screen Pavilion during the 2012 Cannes Film Festival. Photo Courtesy of OMA
kanye obsessions
The screening of Cruel Summer in side 7 Screen Pavilion. Photo Courtesy of OMA.

He explains his perspective on what it means to be a visual artist and how architecture aids in his ability to do so.

Willo Perron

The Canadian designer has worked with the pinnacle of the art and entertainment world. His work with interiors, graphics, video production, and also performance art has allowed him to collaborate with the likes of Jay-Z, Travis Scott, Rihanna, and Tame Impala.

And further, his collaboration with Kanye has spanned over musical performances, fashion shows, and Yeezy studio design.

kanye obsessions
Yeezy Season 4 Fashion Show. Photo courtesy of Perron-Roettinger Studio
kanye architecture
Yeezy Studio. Photo courtesy of Perron-Roettinger Studio

Kanye’s architecture arm: Yeezy Home

In 2018, Kanye established the architectural arm of his creative empire, Yeezy Homes. The thoughtfully-designed affordable housing project has been in the making for many years.

Then, its latest concepts were brought to life in the summer of 2019.

https://twitter.com/kanyewest/status/993221454740185088?s=20

First inspired by Luke Skywalker’s childhood home, Kanye has then taken his experience with architecture and design with his latest Yeezy Home project.

The Tatooine homes from Star Wars were influenced by these homes in Chott el Jerid in Southwest Tunisia. Kanye’s Star Wars fandom has influenced his Yeezy Home design. (Image courtesy of mosaicnorthafrica.com)

The first iteration of Yeezy Homes has been constructed on a 300-acre plot of land in Calabasas. Kanye purchased the land a few years back and is now turning it into his first real estate development.

https://twitter.com/kanyewest/status/1279795012402688000?s=20
A glimpse into the Yeezy Home prototype. Photo courtesy of Highsnobiety.

Kanye’s obsession with architecture is an extension of his artistry. Even more, it is an expression of himself.

His music speaks. His apparel shifts culture. And now, his homes will redefine living.

It will all make sense soon enough.

18 screens February 16, 2021
4Views 0Comments

South Asian architecture has a new wave of designs

Architecture is the boldest art form that has the ability to delight, inspire, and transform. South Asian architecture is a perfect example of harmonizing design with function.

Each corner of the globe has adopted distinct forms of architecture based on a variety of factors. Culture, environment, climate, and traditions are amongst a myriad of factors for architectural design.

Living off the land is a philosophy prevalent in South Asian architecture. Natural ventilation, insulated heating materials, and open space daylighting are functions that have been translated into design elements found in many South Asian structures.

The function of the land combined with the region’s reverence for culture fuses together for eye-opening designs that are one of a kind. A plethora of religions and traditions have shaped the lifestyle of the population, which in turn has then shaped the architecture of the region.

Combining such traditions and functionality with modern practice has resulted in a new age of South Asian architecture. Thus, Kulture Hub takes an in-depth look at some of South Asia’s latest architectural accomplishments.

ID Origins – Studio Symbiosis – Mumbai, India

south asian architecture photography
The heart of Mumbai Central will soon be fitted with a new jewel, the ID Origins building. Photo Courtesy of Studio Symbiosis

This landmark property was originally a 6-floor office structure, housing Ibrahim Dudhwala Real Estate Group. This redesign also includes a thirteen-story expansion set to add to Mumbai’s skyline.

The design makes use of parallel strokes that unify the structure and highlight the verticality of the tower. The heart of Mumbai Central just became a bit gaudier.

Furthermore, see ArchDaily’s in-depth analysis of ID Origins here.

18 SCREENS – Sanjay Puri Architects – Lucknow, India

south asian architecture photography
18 Screens is a combination of cubism and traditional South Asian architecture. Photo Courtesy of Sanjay Puri Architects

This residential home is an ode to the rich building heritage of Lucknow. The house’s main feature is a traditional Indian courtyard that responds to the climate of the region. The temperatures in the long summer months can reach upwards of 95 degrees Fahrenheit or 35 degrees Celcius.

The patterned screens compliment the courtyard to provide natural ventilation throughout the house. Filtered traffic noise is another function of the patterned screens. And this photograph of the stunning South Asian architecture is also as stunning as they come.

Click here to see more details.

Vrindavan Chandrodaya Mandir – InGenious Studio – Haryana, India

south asian designs
This is truly the grandest religious structure to be conceived in South Asia. Photo Courtesy of InGenious Studios

The world’s tallest religious building will reach heights of 700 feet (213 meters). The Vrindavan Chandrodaya Mandir is a Hindu Temple located in the northern-most state of India, Uttar Pradesh. The temple will be surrounded by social and residential facilities set on a 30-acre forest.

Additional facilities include a theme park, a cultural center, and even laser light shows. This is truly a gem in the making for South Asian architecture. Peep the video below for a stunning visual walkthrough.

Kapadia Residence – Coalesce Design Studio – Karachi, Pakistan

south asian architecture
Coalesce Design Studio’s modern take on classical South Asian Architecture. Photo courtesy of Coalesce Design Studio.

The goal of this South Asian design was to create a perception of what “the architecture of the moment” is. Coalesce Design Studio’s team then translated that goal by unifying the house through the transparent built form, open spaces, and visual experiences.

Every line, shape, and indent of this house responds to the other in a composed, simple fashion. The result is a beach house-like structure that has an abundance of natural light, a constant flow of fresh air, and a calming white exterior.

Additional photos of the this house can be seen here.

south asian designs
The open-space concept for homes is a design found through South Asian architecture. Photo Courtesy of Coalesce Studio

Dolmen City – Arshad Shahid Abdulla – Karachi, Pakistan

south asian architecture photography
The Karachi skyline now has a ship-like structure along the sandy shores of Clifton beach. Photo Courtesy of Arshad Shahid Abdulla.

One of Karachi’s best developments sits on the sandy shores of Clifton Beach.

A nautical theme is present throughout the entertainment and also retail spaces of this development. All public interior spaces contain design elements that evoke a sea-faring feeling. These elements include ship decks, seascapes, draw bridges, and marine life.

The Harbour Front is the architectural showpiece. The huge white sail of the office building dominates the Clifton Beach skyline.

south asian designs
The interior of Dolmen City is accentuated with elements of the sea. Photo Courtesy of Arshad Shahid Abdulla.

The Statesman – Studio Morphogenesis – Dhaka, Bangladesh

south asian architecture photography
Studio Morphogenesis plays with introvert and extrovert elements in The Statesman design. Photo courtesy of studio Morphogenesis.

The Statesman is a modern residential building situated in the heart of Dhaka. The building operates with introvert and also extrovert personalities.

On the north side, the glass façade opens the interior to natural light and open views of the neighborhood. Then, the south side has a screened-box façade that holds for a private zone for residents.

Also, check out ArchDaily’s in-depth review of the studio Morphogenesis’ latest masterpiece.

Photo courtesy of studio Morphogenesis.

Teach For Bangladesh Head Office – Studio Dhaka – Dhaka, Bangladesh

“Weaving the nature” was the design concept for Teach for Bangladesh’s HQ. Photo Courtesy of Studio Dhaka.

This collaborative open-plan workspace has been designed as if the spaces are “weaving the nature.”

Teach for Bangladesh’s headquarters has made the most of its limited budget. The designs of this building also resonate with Bangladeshi design aesthetics. Naturally lit and ventilated rooms combined with modern furnishings pair seamlessly.

Making the most of the land has enabled the architects of Studio Dhaka to produce a low energy-consuming structure. See the video below for a pleasant tour of the Teach For Bangladesh Headquarter.

Tree Top Cabins – KWA Architects – Norton Bridge, Sri Lanka

Escape amongst the tree lines in KWA Architects Tree Top Cabins. Photo Courtesy of KWA Architects.

This stunning treetop cabin development is located near the Seven Virgins mountain range in Sri Lanka.

The open glass facades truly accentuate the experience of taking in the sites and sounds. Visitors have the privilege of taking the sights of the mountain range and also the two waterfalls on both sides of the site.

KWA architects give “becoming one with nature” a whole new meaning.

Azure 10 Villas – A-Designstudio – Ussangoda, Sri Lanka

The simple cubism design of Azure 10 Villas. Photo Courtesy of a-DesignStudio

This is beach living at its finest.

This collection of 10 luxury villas provides wrap-around views of the Laccadive Sea. The ground-floor bedroom seamlessly opens up to a sparkling blue pool. Also, the hues used for this site are mutually inclusive of the beach surroundings. It includes sand tines, white beige, and also mud red.

The combination of tropical plants, the ocean breeze, and the open beach provides for the truest sensation of tranquility. See the video below for a glimpse into this tropical lifestyle.

A stunning new age for South Asian architecture

This new age of South Asian architecture is only in its infancy. Younger architects are now entering the scene with vivacious visions, inspiring ideas, and bolder builds.

The future of South Asian architecture is in artistic hands.

bong joon ho February 1, 2021
3Views 0Comments

South Korean film industry amplifies a new pop culture wave

The South Korean film industry is one of the hottest markets in entertainment right now. Hallyu, as it is known, is being promoted everytime a blockbuster Korean film or series is released.

Since the release of Bong Joon-ho’s Academy award-winning film, ‘Parasite,’ South Korean film has been center stage for content consumption. The movie has shown audiences that Korean pop-culture has more to offer than K-Pop and soap operas.

south korean film industry
Bong Joon-ho and the Parasite team posing for their award-winning photo
(Photo credit: ERIC MCCANDLESSGETTY IMAGES)

Hallyu

A more accurate term for this Korean wave of pop culture has been coined as Hallyu. The turn of the 21st century has seen South Korea as a major exporter of pop culture and tourism. It is accurate to say that the South Korean film industry has increased the amplitude of Hallyu.

Hallyu is a Chinese term which, when literally defined, translates to “Korean wave.”

The steady rise in production and investment in the South Korean film industry is comparable to other international film markets. India, Spain, Turkey, and Latin America have had a similar rise in international film investments to South Korea.

The South Korean film industry’s international rise is following a similar path to the Indian film industry

India’s 2008 international blockbuster, Slumdog Millionaire, had a similar effect as Parasite. Over the same timespan, Netflix, Viacom, Amazon, and other companies have poured investments into the Indian film industry.

The result has been a catalog of Indian TV series and movies. The most successful titles from these investments include Delhi Crime (2019), Mirzapur (2018), Sacred Games (2018), Inside Edge (2017), and most recently, the Priyanka Chopra-produced film on Netflix, The White Tiger.

Over the past decade, South Korean film has produced several international award-winning films and blockbusters. Parasite (2019), Snowpiercer (2013), and Train to Busan (2016) have opened the floodgates for further investment in the South Korean film industry.

It seems like South Korean film is following suit to Indian films from the last decade.

hallyu
Train to Busan movie poster (Photo courtesy of Next Entertainment World)

The South Korean film industry’s momentum has been aided by the support of international platforms such as Netflix. Between 2015 and 2020, Netflix spent $700 million on South Korean films and TV series.

This investment has resulted in the opening of a new production base in South Korea that will include six stages at YCDSMC – Studio 139 in Yeoncheon County (which happens to be along a railroad line connecting to Seoul), and an additional three stages at Samsung Studio in Paju.

Netflix South Korea studio
New Netflix Studios in South Korea (Photo courtesy of Netflix)

It seems like an international blockbuster is the film industry’s version of going viral. With an influx of capital and experience, South Korean film is on track for producing some of the best content.

Here are a few titles to specifically look out for in 2021:

Kingdom: Ashin of the North (Series)

This Netflix special is a side sequel to the critically acclaimed series of the same name, Kingdom.

The South Korean zombie film will surely keep viewers in suspense with danger at any corner.

What Happened to Mr. Cha? (Film)

This comedy drama is about once popular Korean actor Cha In-Pyo who struggles to regain his fame.

He undergoes a series of unfortunate events on his back to the top. This light-hearted film will surely deliver some laughs.

Space Sweepers (Film)

This space opera film follows the crew of space junk collectors who stumble upon a deal of a lifetime.

Space Sweepers will keep the viewer’s eyes glued to the TV as this film is jam-packed with action.

The South Korean film industry is poised to continue booming

The South Korean film industry is certainly blossoming right now, and there’s no telling if it has even reached its apex.

Regardless, the talented workers in South Korea are earning international acclaim, and that should make us all happy.

We live in an increasingly globalized world, where other cultures can be ingested in an instant. The growing usage of Hallyu is just another example of this.

We live in an increasingly globalized world, where other cultures can be ingested in an instant. The growing usage of Hallyu is just another example of this.

If you want to see more of it on Netflix, you may already know that it’s not possible if you do not live in South Korea. It’s because Netflix has regional restrictions. Luckily, it is possible to bypass that. You can watch Korean Netflix in other countries  – you just need to get a VPN.

And we still can’t wait to see what the South Korean film industry churns out next.

arantha sirimanne January 18, 2021
3Views 0Comments

10 South Asian photographers sharing their perspectives with the world

The lens of South Asian photographers captures stories thousands of years in the making. Stories of tradition and progression, happiness and pain, and also life and death are all portrayed in a single frame. These photographers hail from Pakistan, India, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, and additional places.

Telling the tales of a land filled with a complex history is also an admirable task. The lush greenery of Bangladesh, the tropical breezes of Sri Lanka, then the sacred waterways of India. Of course also the majestic terrain of Pakistan.

All these entities come together to give South Asian photographers a near-perfect backdrop.

These 10 South Asian photographers bet on themselves and then let their passions guide them. It is with this internal drive that they’ve thus constructed a window for the world to gaze at South Asia’s beauty.

With immense pride, here are Kulture Hub’s South Asian photographers to look out for:

Luv Israni – Mumbai, India

indian photography
Luv Israni in action

Hailing from the Bollywood capital of the world, Luv has made Mumbai his playground to click, capture, fail, and then learn again. This Indian photographer’s work covers a range of industries including Bollywood, fashion, weddings, and also music.

When asked about who his biggest competition is, Luv simply says, “My Last Shot.” A lesson all photographers, not just ones hailing from South Asia, should keep in mind.

Parthavi Yadav – Pune, India

Pune photographer, Parthavi Yadav skillfully uses light to create a warm atmosphere.

A lover of natural light, Parthavi has set up shop in Pune, still known as the educational hub of India. She is a portrait, interior spaces, and also lifestyle photographer that brings out the warmth and comfort of her subjects.

This Indian photographer is changing the way we look at photography in the South Asian context.

Samyukta Lakshmi – Bangalore, India

Samyukta Lakshmi is is a graduate of the Documentary and Photojournalism program at the International Center of Photography, New York.

Lakshmi is a photographer as well as a photojournalist based out of India’s tech hub of Bangalore. She is also an Indian photographer changing the game.

Her work in vulnerable communities, covering social inequality, the human spirit, resilience, and climate change can still be seen in publications across the world.

Namely, this includes The New York Times, Der Spiegel, BBC, Bloomberg News, Quartz, Business Insider USA, MIT Technology Review Magazine, Refinery29, Caravan, Nrc.nl, Grazia, Yahoo Finance, and furthermore, the Deccan Herald.

Deepti Asthana – Mumbai, India

Deepthi documents the contribution of indigenous women in nature and conservation.

Based in Mumbai, Deepti is an independent photographer, storyteller, and also National Geographic Explorer. Her work focuses on women in traditional societies of rural India, and therefore, is some of the most important work done by South Asian photographers.

She, like Yadav and Lakshmi, is an Indian photographer at the top of her game.

Deepti’s skills are used to share untold regional stories that are both tender and strong. She delicately balances tradition and progression with each project.

Her work has been featured in National Geographic Magazine, BBC News, Al Jazeera English, Der Spiegel, Daily Post, Huffington Post, First Post, The Diplomat, Feature Shoot, Hindu Business Line, and The Hindu.

Saiyna Bashir – Islamabad, Pakistan

Saiyna’s photojournalism subjects include acid attack victims, flood victims, and unity amongst Muslims in Wisconsin.

Bashir is a Pakistani photojournalist whose international assignments have been published in the New York Times, The Washington Post, Reuters, The Telegraph, Wall Street Journal, NPR, Der Spiegel, Al-Jazeera English, and still others.

Her work focuses on women empowerment, societal issues and solutions in South Asia, and also environmental injustices.

Ata Adnan – Chittagong, Bangladesh

bangladesh photographer
Adnan is a fan of SPNY photography products.

Adnan bet on himself during his third year of medical school by picking up a camera for the first time.

Since then, this Bangladeshi-bred photographer has only become a name stay amongst South Asian photographers. He also tells stories about the socio-economic relationships within his community.

Adnan’s camera, additionally, is an extension of his lifestyle and his surroundings. His work has been featured in BBC, CNN, Huffington Post, The Guardian, and also a host of local Bangladeshi newspapers. This Bangladeshi photographer is therefore a shining example amongst South Asian photographers.

Khaula Jamil – Karachi, Pakistan

pakistani photographer
Khaula has produced a number of societal documentaries in her native Pakistan.

Jamil is an independent freelance documentary photographer, photojournalist, and also filmmaker from Karachi.

The Pakistani photographer additionally covers a range of subjects including climate change, health, agriculture, and human rights. She is still best known for her emotional and visually impacting series “Humans of Karachi.” Khaula provides a youthful exuberance amongst South Asian photographers.

Arantha Sirimanne – Colombo, Sri Lanka

sri lanka photographer
Arantha has great skill in creating color-popping fashion photos.

Sirimanne hails from the tropical island of Sri Lanka. He is also recognized as one of South Asia’s most coveted fashion photographers. The art of lighting captivated Arantha from a young age.

This then took him on a journey that led to many international gigs which includes becoming the exclusive photographer for Miss Sri Lanka, Miss World, and an official tourism photographer for Sri Lanka International. He is thus a key contributor to South Asian photographers.

Rohit Gupta – Mumbai, India

Indian photographer
Rohit has snapped some of South Asia’s most famous artists. None bigger than A. R. Rahman (below).

Gupta’s work depicts a sense of fortitude and defiance. Based out of Mumbai, he is a fashion and also advertising photographer that has collaborated with many high-end brands.

Some of this talented Indian photographer’s best work can still be seen in Rolling Stone and GQ magazines.

Fabeha Monir – Dhaka, Bangladesh

bangladeshi photographer
Check out Fabeha’s “The Cost of Your Clothes” Story on her website.

Fabeha is a Bangladeshi-based humanist photographer who uses images, text, and video to provide storytelling for her clients.

This Bangladeshi photographer’s people-focused stories also explore social development, migration, gender violence, and forced exile in marginalized communities.

She has been commissioned by renowned institutions that include: World Health Organization (WHO), World Food Program (WFP), Norad, Traidcraft, Nobel Women Initiative, Water Aid, Christian Aid, H&M Foundation, Human Appeal UK, United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, and even more.

Look out for Monir, the transcendent Bangladeshi photographer giving us a view into Bangladesh’s photography scene.

South Asian photographers are changing the way we view photography

These ten South Asian photographers are but a blip on the entire map of South Asian photography. Still, they are reminders of the blossoming nature of the industry, capturing longstanding traditional cultures but in the modern age.

Whether their work focuses on commercial photography, follows a more journalistic style, or advocacy like that for women, these South Asian photographers all excel in their crafts.

From talented Indian photographers to dedicated Pakistani photojournalists, to Bangladeshi photographers and more, these South Asian photographers all set the bar high for how to capture images in an authentic state.

Look out for them, and if you’re searching for how to stay focused in your photography efforts, look no further than here:

bollywood January 8, 2021
3Views 0Comments

A look into 5 Bollywood films dropping big racks on production in 2021

The Bollywood film industry is one of the largest cinema hubs in the world. It is renowned for glamour, vibrancy, and culturally enriched drama. From historical adaptations to heart-plucking romances to eyebrow-raising thrillers, Indian cinema has something for everyone.

The Bollywood film industry ranks first in terms of annual film output as it produces roughly 1800 films per year. Nigeria, Hollywood, and China all follow after.

Most common thinking labels Bollywood as the face of the Indian film industry. However, Bollywood only makes up less than half of the total cinema output.

In simple terms, Bollywood is the Hindi language film industry. And there are over 30 industries based on regional languages. Tamil, Telugu, Malayalam, Kannada, and Tulu are among the top languages that make up Indian film.

An audience comprising of the world’s second-largest population consumes nearly 1800 films annually. That’s a boat-load of customers. And a boat-sized bag.

The chart below depicts past revenue generated and forecasts of the Indian film industry.

Bollywood Film industry

The Indian film generated roughly $2.5 billion in revenue in 2020 (slightly lower due to COVID-19 lockdowns).

With that given context, a question arose: what are the budgets for Indian films in 2021?

We took a look at the top -5 most expensive Bollywood film budgets in the works for 2021:

1. Ponniyin Selvan – Lyca Productions – ₹500 crore (US$70 million) (Tamil)

Bollywood Film industry

This upcoming Tamil-language film is a historical drama adaptation of the novel of the same name. Written five decades ago by Indian writer Kalki Krishnamurthy, the film revolves around the main hero Vandiyathevan.

He is a charming young man who sets out to the Chola land to deliver a message to the King and the Princess from the Crown Prince Aditya Karikalan. The story flickers between Vandiyathevan’s travels in Chola country and the young Prince Arulmozhivarman’s travels in Sri Lanka.

It has a star-studded cast that includes: Vikram, Karthi, Jayam Ravi, Amitabh Bachchan, Jayaram, Aishwarya Rai Bachchan, Trisha, Vikram Prabhu, Aishwarya Lekshmi, Sobhita Dhulipala

2. RRR – DVV Entertainment – ₹350–400 crore (US$49–56 million) (Telugu)

This Telugu period action drama film is set during the British Raj (1858 to 1947). The story is about two of India’s freedom fighters, Alluri Sitarama Raju and Komaram Bheem, who each take on the British Raj and Nizam of Hyderabad.

Like most big-budget films, the cast is filled with top talent including N. T. Rama Rao Jr., Ram Charan, Alia Bhatt, Olivia Morris, Ray Stevenson, Alison Doody, Samuthirakani, Chatrapathi Sekhar, Ajay Devgn, and Shriya Saran.

3. Indian 2 – Lyca Productions – ₹200 crore (US$28 million) (Tamil)

Bollywood Film industry

Filmed almost 25 years after its original release, Indian 2 will follow up on its predecessor’s success by following a similar storyline that takes place in the present.

Using modern age tactics, the protagonists of this film will battle against bureaucratic corruption. The movie’s plot has been kept under wraps for now. More updates are expected as the filming progresses.

The cast for this Tamil-language action film includes legends and today’s hottest stars: Kamal Haasan, Kajal Aggarwal, Siddharth, Rakul Preet Singh, Priya Bhavani Shankar, and Bobby Simha

4. KGF Chapter 2 – Hombale Films – ₹100 crore (US$14 million) (Kannada)

Officially the most expensive movie budgets in the history of the Kannada film industry, KGF Chapter 2 is a sequel to K.G.F.: Chapter 1. The plot centers around Rocky, a power player in the gold mafia.

His pursuit of greatness will take him from the gold mines to the urban jungle in this sequel. He’ll face challenges from the law and order of the government and opposition from other power players in the mafia.

The KGF Chapter 2 cast includes Indian film heavy-hitters Yash, Sanjay Dutt, Srinidhi Shetty, Raveena Tandon, and Prakash Raj amongst others

5. Marakkar: Lion of the Arabian Sea – Aashirvad Cinemas – ₹100 crore (US$14 million) (Malayalam)

Set in the age of exploration and imperialism, this film depicts the 16th-century battles of the naval admiral of the Samoothiri, Kunjali Marakkar IV.

The film follows Marakkar as he organizes the first-ever naval defense of the Indian coast from Portuguese invaders.

Priyadarshan directs this Malayam-historical war film and casts Mohanlal in the lead role. Supporting roles include Arjun Sarja, Suniel Shetty, Prabhu, Manju Warrier, Keerthy Suresh, Mukesh, Siddique, and Nedumudi Venu.