Digitisation Of The Indian Events Landscape
In a world increasingly driven by technology, the events industry in India is also undergoing this transformation. Today, events are evolving into immersive digital experiences that transcend geographical boundaries. From virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) to live streaming and interactive engagement tools, event organisers are harnessing the power of technology to create memorable experiences that captivate attendees and leave a lasting impression. This shift towards digitisation is not only reshaping how events are planned and executed but also redefining the very essence of what it means to attend an event in the modern era.
“One of the key aspects of this transformation is the use of event management software and online platforms, which have streamlined the planning process and enhanced communication between vendors, clients and guests. From creating digital invitations to managing guest lists and seating arrangements, technology has made it easier than ever to stay organised and ensure every detail is taken care of,” emphasises Rituraj Khanna, CEO, Q Events.
Multiple Realities
Virtual reality (VR) allows attendees to immerse themselves in fully interactive virtual environments from the comfort of their own homes using VR headsets. Augmented reality (AR) overlays digital content onto the real world, AR enhances attendees' perceptions of their surroundings, providing them with interactive and informative experiences. From interactive exhibits and virtual tours to gamified activities and informational overlays, AR adds a new dimension to events, making them more engaging, interactive and memorable.
Khanna highlights that the integration of virtual reality and augmented reality technologies has opened up new avenues for creativity and personalisation in wedding design. Couples can visualise their wedding venue, decor and even their outfits in immersive 3D environments, allowing them to make more informed decisions and bring their vision to life in ways that were previously unimaginable.
Rajesh Varma, Founder, CRI Events mentions, “In India's vibrant event landscape, technology is the new guest of honour. From virtual reality tours of historic sites to AI-powered personalised itineraries, tech is transforming how we celebrate, ensuring every attendee has a uniquely memorable experience. At CRI Events, we have incorporated technology into our events in various ways including RFID registration, AI-powered photo booths, personalised itineraries and more.”
Live Streaming and Interactive Engagement
Live streaming has also emerged as a powerful tool for extending the reach of events beyond physical boundaries. With the rise of platforms like Facebook Live, YouTube Live and Twitch, event organisers can broadcast their events to a global audience in real time, allowing attendees from around the world to participate and engage with the event from their devices.
Interactive engagement tools are playing a key role in enhancing attendee experiences at events. From audience polling and question/answer sessions to virtual networking and gamification, these tools enable attendees to actively participate in events and connect with other participants.
Ruchin Kohli, Director, Occasion Xperts asserts, “Technology is reshaping modern events into immersive experiences. It's not just about flashy gadgets; it's about crafting events that are interactive, personalised and memorable for attendees. Events are evolving from one-time experiences to lasting engagements that people can connect with long after they've ended. At Occasion Xperts, we involve a lot of polling and interactive acts in our hybrid events. We are using cool stuff like virtual reality and AI to make events more than just a one-off thing.”
The integration of technology into the Indian events landscape doesn’t merely change how events are experienced but also opens up new possibilities for event organisers. By embracing digital technologies, organisers can create immersive and engaging experiences that captivate audiences, drive attendance and leave a lasting impression leading to good recall value.
