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Bruno Aveillan Creates Film Series to Mark Soneva’s 25th Anniversary

Celebrating 25 years - Cinema Paradiso at Soneva Jani by Sandro Bruecklmeier
Bruno Aveillan has created a new series of films that focus on the driving force behind Soneva’s success; its people.

Bruno Aveillan has created a new series of films that focus on the driving force behind Soneva’s success; its people. The films take an in-depth look at some of the fascinating individuals who represent every facet of the Soneva brand.

An acclaimed filmmaker, photographer, and artist, Aveillan is considered one of the most in-demand directors on the planet. He works with world-renowned brands that including; Louis Vuitton, Cartier, Chanel, and Time Warner. Aveillan is also a recipient of more than 200 awards. This includes multiple Gold Lions at Cannes, Gold Clio Awards, and Grand Prix Stratégie. Moreover, Aveillan’s name has become a by-word for modern cinematographic excellence.

The director’s latest film series focuses on Soneva Fushi in the Baa Atoll. Likewise, Soneva Fushi was the first Soneva resort to open its doors back in 1995. Soneva set a new standard in sustainable luxury and transforming the hospitality sector in the Maldives archipelago and beyond. The series features one four-minute-long brand film and ten shorter videos. Furthermore, the series’ shot against the backdrop of Soneva Fushi’s idyllic natural beauty.

Also read: Soneva Marks 25 Years of Rare Guest Experiences and a Peerless Sustainable Ethos

“By directing this new opus for this enchanting place, I had the great opportunity to meet what perhaps constitutes the absolute treasure of this pure jewel on earth: its human beings. Day by day, these people make the dream happen, shaping the soul and creating the legend of Soneva. Happy birthday, dearest Soneva!

Bruno Aveillan said.

The films star some of Soneva Fushi’s best-loved Hosts. Many of the hosts have been with the resort since the very beginning. Aveillan was also behind the lens for Soneva’s 2018/19 Festival of Colour campaign. The campaign brought to life the diverse array of unique guest experiences, visiting experts and also activities taking place throughout the year, inspired by the vibrant palette of hues at Soneva Fushi, Soneva Jani, and Soneva Kiri.

With a plethora of awards, including several Gold Cannes Lions, London International Awards and New York Clios, we were very lucky that acclaimed filmmaker and photographer Bruno Aveillan agreed to direct it. A Soneva enthusiast himself, Bruno has created several short films for us over the years, such as ‘The Boy with the Coconut’, and, more recently, our ‘Festival of Colours’ film series. We are delighted with the final cut and cannot wait to share the series with the world so that people can get to know some of the of the remarkable individuals who have played a role in our success.

Sonu Shivdasani, Founder and CEO of Soneva said.

Soneva’s award-winning properties in the Maldives and Thailand is celebrating its landmark 25th anniversary with a 12-month campaign starting from this month. To view Soneva’s full 25th-anniversary campaign including the curated collection of videos by Bruno Aveillan, and Soneva’s gallery of old photos since 1995, visit: www.soneva.com/25-years-of-soneva

Feature image by Soneva
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Kuda Villingili Resort Welcomes India’s Aqua Fitness Expert Rajni Maker for Global Wellness Day 2025

Aqua Fitness Expert

From June 14 to 18, 2025, the luxury resort in the Maldives, Kuda Villingili will host an exclusive wellness program celebrating Global Wellness Day, inviting guests to reconnect with themselves, nature, and community through the transformative power of water. Rajni Maker, a trailblazer in India’s aqua fitness scene known for her innovative and inclusive water-based workouts, will lead the five-day event.

Aqua fitness expert Rajni Maker brings over 16 years of experience in Pilates, mindful movement, and water-based training to the Maldives, where she will lead guests through a fun and energizing mix of low-impact exercises suited for all fitness levels. Her signature programs, including Aqua Tabata, Kickboxing, Circuits, Pilates, Aerobics, and Zumba, blend science with flow to deliver joyful, joint-friendly workouts that boost overall vitality. Recognized by NATCOM and ATNI for her contributions to the field, Rajni also holds an Aqua Specialisation from the Federation of International Sports Aerobics and Fitness in Singapore.

She shared her excitement about the upcoming program

“I am thrilled to bring my expertise to Kuda Villingili. The resort’s serene setting and expansive aquatic spaces offer the ideal canvas for meaningful, water-based wellness experiences. My goal is to help every participant reconnect with their body and mind, while also leaving them with simple, sustainable practices they can continue at home—whether they are just beginning their wellness journey or are seasoned fitness enthusiasts.”

Wellness Experiences Set in Paradise

Kuda Villingili Resort already welcomes wellness lovers with a variety of experiences that promote balance, vitality, and inner peace. Its private island spa features eight treatment villas specializing in holistic therapies with organic, island-inspired ingredients. On top of that, guests who prefer active pursuits will find the Maldives’ largest pool, a cutting-edge gym overlooking the ocean, and a jungle yoga pavilion perfectly positioned for sunrise and sunset practice.

Now, with Global Wellness Day approaching, the resort has pulled together an experience that goes beyond the usual. Throughout the five days, guests can enjoy a thoughtfully curated lineup of activities designed to nourish both body and soul:

  • Start with a guided nature walk through the island’s lush landscape, ending with a mindful beachside body scrub using traditional Maldivian ingredients.
  • Then, wake up your core with sunrise Pilates sessions using the Magic Circle, focusing on strength and flexibility.
  • After that, join Rajni for high-intensity aqua kickboxing classes—a joint-friendly but seriously energizing cardio workout.
  • Families can also get moving together during fun and active beach HIIT sessions.
  • For something playful, join a friendly padel tennis match and compete for wellness-themed prizes.
  • Later, tap into your creative side with a nature-inspired painting session.
  • And finally, take time for yourself with a one-on-one wellness consultation with one of the resort’s expert practitioners.

As the schedule flows from movement to mindfulness, the entire program ties beautifully into this year’s Global Wellness Day theme, #ReconnectMagenta. It’s all about slowing down, recharging, and reconnecting, whether that means bonding with loved ones, finding inner calm, or just being present in nature.

About Rajni Maker and Flow & Fit

Rajni Maker is more than just an aqua fitness expert, she’s reshaped the way people in India experience movement in water. Her Flow & Fit program brings her vision of fitness to life: fluid, empowering, and deeply restorative. Not to mention, she blends elements of yoga, functional training, and rehab into every session, creating something that feels both powerful and healing.

With certifications from respected institutions like ACSM, the Pilates Institute of America, and the Evidence-Based Fitness Academy, Rajni backs her passion with real knowledge. What makes her stand out, though, is how she turns fitness into something fun, approachable, and doable—whether you’re brand new or a long-time wellness enthusiast.

You can check out the brochure here

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