BOMBAY TIMES (March 16, 2020)

In Fiji, ‘Bula’ is more than just a greeting. It’s a wish for happiness, good health and the energy of life. This archipelago of more than 300 islands in the South Pacific Ocean is known as one of the friendliest places on Earth. And what’s more, it is welcoming Indian tourists with open arms. The country treats India as a visa-exempt nation, having simplified their immigration process, which means Indian tourists can apply for visa on arrival for a stay of four months or less.

Fiji has provided cinematic backdrops to famous Hollywood hits like Cast Away, The Blue Lagoon and the recently released sci-fi feature film Fantasy Island, which was produced by Blumhouse Productions. It has also provided a canvas to Bollywood creations like Table No 21, Warning, 3G and Santa Banta Pvt Ltd. After the recently launched film incentive, Indian filmmakers are being wooed by Fiji with an enticing 75 per cent film rebate on the overall expenditure at Fiji — a free 14-day working visa upon arrival, experienced crew and extras, picture-perfect locations, and most importantly, a comprehensive Hindi-speaking population.

If you thought there was nothing much to Fiji beyond picturesque beaches, think again! This is one country that you shouldn’t rush through. Not only does Fiji lure travellers to relax and unwind, but it is also a place known for adventure. The endless stretches of colourful reefs around Fiji are home to more than 1,500 species of fish and fascinating sea creatures, making it one of the most popular spots in the world for diving. Fiji also has thrills in store for hikers, birdwatchers, forest lovers and nightlife enthusiasts in the folds of its many islands.

With its picturesque locales — be it rugged landscapes, sensational palm-lined beaches, thriving coral reefs with clear lagoons and the famous Fijian hospitality — the country invites you to experience its exotic locations and rich multi-cultural heritage that makes it a filmmaker’s paradise.

As Bharat earns praise in overseas markets, Salman Khan takes Dabangg tour to new territories
Upala KBR (MID-DAY; June 13, 2019)

Banking on the success of his last Da-Bangg The Tour Reloaded, and the subsequent acclaim that recent release Bharat continues to earn, Salman Khan is set to embark on a longer tour this year. With Ali Abbas Zafar's directorial venture performing well in East Africa, Indonesia, Fiji Islands and Malaysia, Khan will apparently enthral his new fan-base at these venues.

A source tells mid-day, "His fans in Africa and Fiji have been requesting that his shows be conducted there and Salman is keen to oblige them. The success of his previous gigs in the US, Canada and New Zealand implies more performances will be conducted. Apart from Salman, frequent collaborators Sonakshi Sinha, Jacqueline Fernandez, Katrina Kaif, Prabhudheva, Maniesh Paul, Daisy Shah and Guru Randhawa are expected to join him this year as well. There may be some new faces too."

Tour managers Sohail Khan Official Entertainment and JA Events are considering places like Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Dubai, South Africa, Singapore, Nepal and Malaysia. "The team is also working on a Europe tour. Dates are being chalked around the shoot of Bigg Boss 13, which is hosted by Salman. The tours are expected to begin in August."

Lakshmi V (BOMBAY TIMES; July 21, 2017)