KUDTHAI 2026

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Presented in collaboration with the Tourism Authority of Thailand, the initiative reflects a growing effort to spotlight Thailand's cultural identity through contemporary retail and experiential tourism.

"KUDTHAI" — derived from the Thai word "Kud," meaning "to carefully select" — brings together a refined selection of Thai brands, artisans, and culinary talents, highlighting craftsmanship, local wisdom, and modern design for both local and international audiences.

The inaugural "Song Wat KUDTHAI 2026," taking place from April 9–12 at Lost in Songwat, marks the first time The Mall Group extends its retail experience beyond its flagship developments into one of Bangkok's most talked-about neighborhoods. Once a historic trading hub along the Chao Phraya River, Songwat is now re-emerging as a vibrant cultural enclave attracting a new generation of creatives and global travelers.

Extending this experience into the city's premier retail destinations, "KUDTHAI 2026" will also be held from April 8–19, 2026 across the EM District — Emporium, EmQuartier, and Emsphere — creating a connected journey between Bangkok's emerging cultural quarters and its established lifestyle hubs.

This multi-location approach reflects a broader shift in how visitors experience Bangkok — moving fluidly between heritage neighborhoods and contemporary retail environments.

While Songkran remains one of Thailand's most globally recognized celebrations, "KUDTHAI 2026" offers an alternative lens — focusing on curated cultural discovery through design, gastronomy, and local creativity.

At the EM District, the "EM District Thai Hansa Maha Songkran: A Summer of Thai Celebration" from April 10–15, 2026 further enhances the experience with immersive installations, signature water attractions, and themed markets including THAI-POP MARKET at Emporium, THAI LOCAL MARKET at EmQuartier, and THAI-TAINMENT MARKET at Emsphere.

A highlight includes "Little Song Wat," bringing culinary names from the historic Songwat community into the heart of the city, reinforcing the connection between Bangkok's evolving cultural districts and its modern retail landscape.

Together, these activations position Bangkok as more than a festive destination during Songkran — but also as a city redefining how tradition is experienced through innovation, culture, and commerce.

For more information, please visit www.emdistrict.com

Asian Paints Where The Heart Is S9 - Gautam Gambhir

Known for his steely resolve in public life, Gautam speaks of home as the place where that armour can finally be set aside. “On the field, I’m Gambhir. At home, I’m Gautam,” he says—a distinction that quietly explains the home’s restraint, softness, and absence of excess. Situated in a calm, tree-lined neighbourhood, the two-storey home offers a gentle counterpoint to the demands of a high-pressure life; a sanctuary designed for balance, peace, and the simple luxury of feeling at ease.

Having left home at a young age to pursue cricket, Gautam carries with him a deep awareness of what home represents, not just as a place, but as reassurance. That understanding quietly informs the way the house feels today. Here, returning home is not an event, but a feeling. “When you come back home, this is your space; a place that makes you feel secure and stable,” he reflects.

At the heart of the home is a soaring atrium, crowned with a domed ceiling where sunlight moves softly through the day, casting changing patterns of light and shadow. The walls, finished in Lankan Jasmine from Asian Paints’ Nilaya Arc Matt range, lend a breathable, tactile warmth to the interiors. The restrained palette is intentional, “My favourite colours are white and ivory,” Gautam shares, allowing architecture, light, and natural textures to take centre stage.

While Gautam’s preference for clean, neutral tones lays the foundation, Natasha brings warmth and personality to the space. Classic furniture, carved wood accents, polished marble, and subtle metallic highlights coexist in quiet balance. Soft curtains, delicate pelmets, and layered textures make the home feel lived-in rather than styled. As Gautam puts it, “Home design is about making the right choice. There are so many options and colours, but what matters most is what you like.”

Season 9 also introduces a first for Where The Heart Is with the launch of the Asian Paints Where The Heart Is Lookbook, designed as a thoughtful companion to the stories unfolding in each home. Drawing from Gautam and Natasha’s space, the Lookbook gently decodes the calm palette of whites, ivories, and soft textures that define their home, translating its understated elegance into curated colour stories and design cues. It allows viewers to move beyond admiration and into understanding—showing how the quiet harmony of light, colour, and material seen in this home can be thoughtfully recreated in their own spaces.

Every corner carries meaning. A carefully curated trophy lounge traces Gautam’s cricketing journey, with awards displayed with quiet restraint, alongside family photographs and books. Yet, even here, achievements take a back seat to emotion. “This room has been created with a lot of love and affection, which, for me, matters far more than all the achievements,” he says. The trophy lounge is not a display of success, but a gentle reminder of the journey — the perseverance, setbacks, and growth that matter far more than what is won.

The episode moves into the daughters’ rooms, which carry a softer, more intimate energy shaped around comfort, security, and everyday joy. Designed to feel light and airy, the spaces use calm whites and gentle neutrals, allowing natural light to take centre stage. Smart storage, uncluttered corners, and flexible layouts create room for play, rest, and growing independence.

At home, wins and losses fade away. As Gautam shares, his children don’t measure success in trophies or scorecards; they simply know when he is home. That constancy, more than achievement, forms the emotional heart of the space. After years of pressure and public life, the house offers something rare and deeply personal: stillness. “When you come back home, this is your space, a place that makes you feel secure and stable,” Gautam says. In the end, the home reflects a simple truth, home is peace.

Watch Gautam Gambhir's serene and timeless aesthetic in Asian Paints Where The Heart Is Season 9 in the link below:

Asian Paints Where The Heart Is S9 E4 | Featuring Gautam Gambhir’s Pristine Delhi Bungalow

Link to the episode: www.youtube.com/watch?v=uaySQYkV2tA&t=2s

Where the Heart Is Lookbook: www.beautifulhomes.asianpaints.com/magazine/where-the-heart-is.html

About ‘Asian Paints Where The Heart Is’ Season 09

Asian Paints Where The Heart Is is Asian Paints’ flagship home and lifestyle series that explores the deeply personal relationship people share with their homes. Now in its ninth season, the series goes beyond décor to capture how Indian homes are being shaped by emotion, identity, relationships, and everyday living.

Season 9 features Archana Puran Singh, Keerthy Suresh & Antony Thattil, Sonakshi Sinha & Zaheer Iqbal, Gautam Gambhir and Aman & Priya Gupta each opening the doors to homes that reflect who they are beyond their public personas. Through thoughtful storytelling, the series highlights how colour, texture, light, and spatial design quietly influence how people live, feel, and connect.

As a first this season, Asian Paints introduces a curated Where The Heart Is Lookbook, allowing viewers to recreate elements of homes in their own spaces. Featuring décor cues, colour inspirations, and design tips drawn from the episode, the vision board is seamlessly integrated into the viewing experience, guiding audiences to BeautifulHomes.com.

Asian Paints Where The Heart Is Season 9 is available across Asian Paints’ digital platforms and OTT platform, JioHotstar.

About Asian Paints Limited

Since its founding in 1942, Asian Paints has become India’s leading and Asia’s second-largest paint company, with a consolidated turnover of Rs. 33,797 crores (Rs. 338 billion). It continues to uplift spaces, transcend the boundaries of colour and design, creating a positive impact in the lives of customers. The organization operates in 14 countries and has 26 paint manufacturing facilities globally, servicing consumers in over 60 countries.

Asian Paints has always been a leader in the paint industry, innovating and introducing new concepts in India like Colour Ideas, Beautiful Homes Painting Service, Colour Next, and Asian Paints Beautiful Homes Stores. Asian Paints manufactures a wide range of paints and coatings for Decorative and Industrial use and also offers specialized painting and interior decor solutions. The decorative business portfolio also includes the SmartCare range for waterproofing, WoodTech products for wood finishes, and the Adhesives range for all surfaces.

Asian Paints also offers a wide range of Home Décor products and is one of the leading players in the integrated decor space in India, offering Modular Kitchens and wardrobes, Bath Fittings and Sanitaryware, Decorative Lightings, uPVC windows and doors, Wall coverings, Furnitures, Furnishings, Rugs, etc.

For our email disclaimer please visit www.asianpaints.com/disclaimer.html#email

Kosala, the social enterprise of Hindalco Industries Limited, has opened its flagship retail store in Greater Kailash (N Block), New Delhi, marking a key expansion milestone in its Kosa silk value-chain initiative in Chhattisgarh.

L–R: Satish Pai, MD, Hindalco Industries Ltd; actor Yami Gautam Dhar; Rajashree Birla, Chairperson, Aditya Birla Centre for Community Initiatives & Rural Development;  Saurabh Khedekar, CEO Alumina Business, Hindalco Industries Ltd & Director, Kosala Foundation, and  Neeta Shah - CEO Kosala at inauguration of Kosala Boutique in Delhi

Kosala was launched in 2021 to restore and expand the indigenous Kosa silk craft of the Dewangan community. Today, Kosala reached a key milestone with the launch of its first flagship store. The boutique was inaugurated by Mrs. Rajashree Birla, Chairperson of the Aditya Birla Centre for Community Initiatives and Rural Development, in the presence of Mr. Satish Pai, Managing Director of Hindalco Industries Limited, Mr. Saurabh Khedekar, CEO, Alumina Business, Hindalco Industries Limited and Director, Kosala Foundation with actor Ms. Yami Gautam Dhar marking the occasion.

Speaking at the launch, Mrs. Rajashree Birla- Chairperson of the Aditya Birla Centre for Community Initiatives and Rural Development said, “Kosala reflects our deep commitment to trusteeship, nurturing communities while preserving India’s rich cultural heritage. By revitalising the art of Kosa silk, we are empowering artisan families, especially women, with sustainable livelihoods and renewed pride in their craft. This store serves as a bridge between rural skill and global appreciation.”

Kosala’s impact at the grassroots level has been measurable and transformative. In FY25, 31 weaver families secured full-time engagement, while 130 artisans were employed across pre-loom and post-loom processes, strengthening integration across the value chain. Full-time weavers now benefit from assured year-round engagement, resulting in a 63% increase in income, significantly enriching their livelihoods. During the year, 379 artisans were engaged and 100 were newly skilled, reinforcing household stability and enabling the Dewangan community to move forward with renewed confidence and dignity. Since its inception, Kosala has empowered over 700 artisans, strengthening sustainable livelihoods while preserving the indigenous craft of Kosa silk.

Mr. Saurabh Khedekar, CEO, Alumina Business, Hindalco Industries Limited and Director, Kosala Foundation, said, “Kosala is anchored in two core beliefs, reviving the indigenous legacy of Kosa silk and restoring economic dignity, recognition, and continuous skill advancement to its original custodians, the Dewangan community. This store is not merely a retail milestone; it reaffirms our long-term commitment to strengthening the artisan ecosystem and enabling weaver families to thrive with pride and purpose.

We continue to prioritise the well-being of artisans and their families by extending individual life insurance coverage, expanding structured training to bring more weavers into the fold, and reimagining Kosa through a thoughtful blend of time-honoured techniques and consciously designed collections for the modern consumer.”

Capacity-building initiatives include training 25 rural youth in professional natural colour dyeing; providing sewing and embroidery skills to 100 women in partnership with the International Labour Organization and the Foundation for MSME Clusters; certifying 50 Dewangan women in Kosa reeling; and offering advanced weaving training to 25 artisans through the Weavers’ Service Centre, Raigarh. In 2024, Kosala introduced the Kosala Artisan Shilp Unnati Yojana, instituting annual recognition and incentive structures for master weavers.

Kosala was instituted as part of Hindalco’s sustainable mining initiatives in Chhattisgarh. Over the years we have built a scalable rural enterprise model that integrates market access, skill development and infrastructure investment positioning heritage textiles within a sustainable luxury framework while delivering measurable economic outcomes at the grassroots level.

About Hindalco Industries Limited

Hindalco Industries Limited is the metals flagship company of the Aditya Birla Group. A $28 billion metals powerhouse, Hindalco is the world’s largest aluminium company by revenues, and the world’s second largest Copper rods manufacturer (outside China). Hindalco operates across the value chain, from bauxite mining, alumina refining, coal mining, captive power plants and aluminium smelting to downstream rolling, extrusions, and foils. Along with its subsidiary Novelis, Hindalco is the global leader in flat rolled products and the world’s largest recycler of aluminium.

Hindalco is India’s largest copper producer, serving more than half the country’s copper requirements. Its copper facility in Gujarat, India, comprises a world-class copper smelter and refinery complex, downstream facilities, and a captive jetty. Hindalco’s global footprint spans 48 manufacturing units across 10 countries. Hindalco has been ranked the world’s most sustainable aluminium company in the Dow Jones Sustainability Indices (DJSI) for six consecutive years– 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023, 2024 and 2025.

About Kosala

Kosala is a social enterprise initiative by Hindalco Industries Limited, the metals flagship of the Aditya Birla Group, launched to revive and advance the ancient Kosa silk craft of the Dewangan community in Chhattisgarh. Conceptualised in association with Xynteo Vikaasa, a multi-stakeholder coalition working to build sustainable growth models, Kosala blends heritage with innovation to preserve a 5,000-year-old art form while strengthening the economic resilience of artisan communities. Kosala, which supports craftsmen in weaving, reeling, and dyeing, prioritizes the development of sustainable livelihoods, women's empowerment, skill enhancement, and access to international markets. Since its inception, Kosala has empowered over 700 artisans across Chhattisgarh, strengthening sustainable livelihoods while preserving the indigenous craft of Kosa silk.

Gifts World Expo Mumbai & Paperworld Mumbai will be held from 26-28 February 2026, at Bombay Exhibition Center, Mumbai, Maharashtra
 

As consumer preferences shift towards customised, design-led, utility driven and occasion-specific products, both gifting & stationery categories are witnessing a steady transformation. Products that were once largely functional or seasonal segments are now becoming experience-led premium and innovation-driven, opening new opportunities across retail, corporate and institutional channels.
 

Gifts World Expo Mumbai will represent a diverse range of thoughtful as well as contemporary gifting solutions catering to corporate, institutional, festive, wedding and premium gifting needs. The showcase will span across categories like perfumes, electronics, lifestyle accessories, home and kitchen products, wellness kits, gourmet foods and beverages, handicrafts, decor, sustainable products, customised merchandise, bags and more. The growing emphasis on employee engagement, brand recall, personalization and sustainability has positioned gifting as a year-round business opportunity rather than a purely seasonal one. Gifts World Expo Mumbai will spotlight pioneers such as ​Arvind Mills, Flipkart, IGP, MaxFresh, Nasher Miles, Power Plus, Signoraware, Swiss Military, Unix and more.
 

Running in parallel, Paperworld Mumbai will spotlight innovations across paper, stationery, office and school supplies, writing instruments, arts and crafts hobby materials, educational toys and creative learning tools. With rising demand from students, parents, educators, working professionals and hobbyists, the category continues to move beyond basic consumption into design-led, experience-driven and value-added products, supported by trends such as sustainable materials, digital stationery, smart products and custom formats. Key exhibitors from Paperworld Mumbai include leading stationery innovators like Casio, Elkos Pens, Indeutsch Industries, KGOC Global (Kangaro), Kores India, Linc, Luxor Writing Instrument, Saino Pen, Submarine Pens and more.

Visitors will discover product innovations and trends such as eco-friendly stationery, personalised notebooks, planners, creative hobby kits, safe children’s products, premium writing instruments, innovative packaging and gift-wrapping solutions, along with private labelling and bulk customisation capabilities.

“Gifts World Expo stands at the forefront of India’s gifting industry, constantly adapting to meet the evolving needs of businesses. Our goal is to offer a comprehensive platform where industry leaders can drive innovation, foster strategic partnerships, find one-stop sourcing solutions and explore new business opportunities. With a robust lineup of exhibitors and high-level industry conferences, we are shaping the trajectory of the gifting sector in India," said Ms Himani Gulati, Director, MEX Exhibitions Pvt. Ltd.

Mr Raj Manek, Executive Director & Board Member, Messe Frankfurt Asia Holdings Ltd., stated, “Paperworld Mumbai and Gifts World Expo Mumbai together reflect the changing dynamics of India’s stationery and gifting industries. Today’s buyers are looking at relevance, creative and meaningful concepts and differentiation, whether it is school and office supplies, creative products or gifting solutions. India has a strong base of homegrown brands responding to these shifts and these platforms together offer a vast product universe, business connections, while also driving industry trends that support long-term business growth.”

A key highlight of the 2026 editions of the shows will be the curated knowledge programmes designed to address the real-world business challenges and emerging opportunities across different business segments. The sessions and activities will be organised under two focused tracks: Gift Talks and Paper Talks. A session by Times NIE - Balancing Brains and Bots: A Wellbeing-First Approach to AI in Education engaging representatives Principals and Head Co-ordinators from several schools. The Grand Brush Off will see the artists turn blank canvas with their spontaneous creativity.

Apart from this, across three days, various panel discussions will shed light upon topics around wedding gifting, gifting from India to the world highlighting the diversity and richness of the country, employee gifting, university merchandise & souvenirs, importance of packaging in gifting, youth and hobby markets, stationery designing, why adults still love stationery and the psychology behind it, workshop on packaging and more. Besides, this show will also feature a start-up zone, innovation zone, sustainability will be a core background theme, live-demo of paper making by artisans, art and craft engagement activity, new product launches, products for Gen-Z and lots more.

India’s gifting and stationery markets continue to demonstrate strong long-term growth fundamentals. According to IMARC Group, the Indian school stationery supplies market, valued at USD 2,629.5 million in 2025, is projected to reach USD 4,001 million by 2034, growing at a CAGR of 4.77%. The gifting market, expected to reach USD 1.05 billion by 2033, is being driven by rising disposable incomes, corporate gifting demand, digital platforms and increasing preferences for personalised and sustainable products.

The events are jointly organised by MEX Exhibitions Pvt. Ltd. & Messe Frankfurt Trade Fairs India. Gifts World Expo Mumbai 2026 co-located with Paperworld Mumbai promises to be a definitive platform for India’s gifting, paper and stationery industries.

For information about the show and photographic material, please visit
giftsworldexpo.com/mum/

paperworldmumbai.in.messefrankfurt.com/mumbai/en.html
 

About Paperworld Mumbai 
Paperworld Mumbai is the ultimate hub for connecting with the global names and leading brands in top-quality stationery, office products, art and craft products, writing instruments, teaching and learning aids, paper & paper products, green stationery, back-to-school supplies and lots more. Entering the 6th edition the expo brings together leading Indian and international manufacturers, suppliers and brands showcasing the latest product range to drive business.
 

Gifts World Expo: India's Largest Exhibition for Gifts Sourcing

Gifts World Expo, recognized as India's largest exhibition for gifts sourcing, is an annual hallmark event that sets the stage for unparalleled business opportunities in the gifting industry. Organized by MEX Exhibitions Pvt. Ltd., the Expo has become a pivotal platform for industry professionals, fostering innovation, creativity, and strategic partnerships across diverse sectors.

Dr. Sanjay Gupta, Chair of ZEITGEIST 2026 and Vice-Chancellor of the World University of Design
 

Held on 12^th and 13^th February at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi, the international conference on Cultural, Spatial and Sensory Futures of Art, Design and Architecture was organised by the World University of Design. Over two days, scholars, practitioners, artists, and students engaged in conversations that moved well beyond aesthetics, into territory that was technological, political, ecological and deeply human.
 

The word Zeitgeist means the spirit of the times. But at this conference, it became more than a theme. It became a challenge. How do we design when authorship is shared with algorithms? How do we build when climate accountability is non-negotiable? How do we preserve heritage while imagining speculative futures?
 

The conference featured a powerful line-up of keynote speakers who set the intellectual tempo of the event. Dr. Sachchidanand Joshi, Member Secretary of the Indira Gandhi National Centre for the Arts, reflected on cultural continuity in a rapidly shifting world. Mr. Sanjoy Roy, Managing Director of Teamwork Arts, spoke on the role of creative ecosystems in shaping public imagination. Prof. Nic Clear of the University of Huddersfield explored speculative architecture and the impact of digital futures on design thinking. Dr. Ashok B. Lall, eminent architect and educationist, offered critical insight into sustainability and contextual practice. Artist Samar Jodha brought a transdisciplinary perspective that blurred boundaries between art, politics and lived experience.
 

“We are not simply designing objects anymore. We are designing systems, experiences, and cultural narratives,” said Dr. Sanjay Gupta, Chair of ZEITGEIST 2026 and Vice-Chancellor of the World University of Design. “This conference reflects a growing recognition that architecture and design are no longer peripheral to global change. They are central to it,” he added.
 

Across keynote lectures, research presentations, panels and workshops, participants debated themes ranging from immersive and hybrid environments to heritage-led innovation, sensory urbanism, regenerative design, and speculative futures. The dialogue was rigorous. It was sometimes provocative. It was deliberately interdisciplinary.
 

Dr. Shaleen Sharma, Co-Chair of ZEITGEIST 2026 and Dean of the School of Planning & Architecture at WUD, noted, “When technologists, conservationists, designers and cultural theorists from 45+ top institutions across the world sit at the same table, the conversation becomes richer and more responsible. That intellectual friction is necessary if we are to respond meaningfully to our times.”
 

“Architecture today operates in a field where physical space, digital environments, and speculative imagination intersect. The challenge is not simply to adopt new technologies, but to develop critical frameworks that allow us to design responsibly within them,” Prof Nic Clear from University of Huddersfield added.
 

The conference also highlighted the growing role of India within the global creative economy. With rapid growth in digital industries, immersive media, and design-led entrepreneurship, India’s cultural and spatial imagination is increasingly shaping global discourse. ZEITGEIST 2026 positioned these conversations within both international and local contexts.
 

More than a conventional academic gathering, ZEITGEIST functioned as a laboratory of ideas. It brought emerging researchers into dialogue with established practitioners. It connected technological experimentation with cultural memory. It asked participants not only to interpret the present but to influence the trajectory of what comes next.
 

As the sessions concluded, one idea resonated strongly across the forum: every era leaves evidence of its thinking in the spaces it builds. ZEITGEIST 2026 was not merely about describing the spirit of our times. It was about defining it.

Maha Sivratri 2026 - Leadership Of Consciousness

Mahasivratri is the night of Turiya, the field of stillness beyond time, where awareness deepens, perception clarifies, and the mind gently yields to higher intelligence. It is a sacred opportunity to transcend inner limitations and rediscover the natural state of centered presence. Not merely a ritual observance, Mahasivratri is a vigil of heightened awareness where stillness intensifies, distractions lose their hold, and consciousness becomes more accessible. In this sacred space, leadership is refined at its true source — inner clarity.

Event Schedule and Participation Details:

• MAHASIVRATRI GRAND NIGHT: The Great Vigil of Leadership

• 15 February: 8:00 PM – 6:00 AM (Next Day) PST

• 16 February: 9:30 AM – 7:30 PM IST

Register : MAHASIVRATRI: GRAND NIGHT OF LORD SIVA- FIVE EVENTS WITH NANDHIJI

Complementing this journey, the 108 Kshetras of Lord Siva, traditionally associated with pilgrimage, are contemplated as inner landscapes of awareness. Within subtle traditions of insight, they symbolise dimensions of transformation, discipline, transcendence, and awakened spiritual power.

Participants will have access to unique resources, including:

• 108 One minute wisdom videos: Siddha Wisdom Blessings

• Master Class with Nandhiji: Power of the Root Chakra, Pranayama, Mantra Deeksha, and Siddha Wisdom

• Kalangi Kundalini Yoga DVD: For vitality, clarity, and spiritual power

• Additional: Video recordings of Mahasivratri 2026

Across time zones and traditions, we gather in a shared vigil of awareness, honouring Siddha wisdom while deepening clarity, responsibility, and conscious leadership. May this sacred night awaken stillness, strength, and luminous perception within us all.

For more information and to register for these events, please visit www.worldyogiday.org.

Sanjay Chandra and the other dignitaries with the Jury Members of Kala Literature Awards 2026

Organised by Kala – Krazy About Literature And Arts, an initiative by Sanjay Chandra, the festival was co-curated by Neena Chandra, a leader in sustainability and education for the underprivileged; Payal Chandra, an eminent lawyer; and Atri Pandey, a senior finance professional.

The festival was supported by a strong network of partners including Let’s Talk (co-founded by Pooja Chandra and Vivek Pathak), CSOI New Delhi, CSC WICCI, PR Professionals, The Alcove, Readomania, IP Infra, and Indie Authors Group.

Day 1: Literature, Reflection and Cultural Expression

The festival opened with Shri Manoj Kumar Dwivedi, IAS, in the presence of noted painter-poets Vishnu Nagar, Ashok Bhowmik, and Hemraj.

In his inaugural address, Shri Dwivedi underscored the role of literature and the arts in nurturing empathy, enriching public discourse, and creating reflective spaces within institutions. He noted that engagement with literature allows professionals to connect more deeply with society beyond the demands of their formal roles.

Founder Sanjay Chandra spoke about Kala’s journey and its growing initiatives, reiterating the platform’s commitment to building inclusive, people-centric spaces where literature and art are anchored in conversation and community.

Curators Neena Chandra and Atri Pandey reflected on the intersection of literature, sustainability, and inclusion. “Literature cultivates empathy, and empathy is the foundation of social responsibility and sustainable change. When we understand stories beyond our own experiences, we begin to build more inclusive systems,” they shared.

Co-curator Payal Chandra highlighted the deep connection between law and literature.“Both are rooted in interpretation, ethics, and the human condition. Law may work through statutes and precedent, but at its core it is about people and their stories. Literature sharpens our sensitivity to nuance, justice, and moral reasoning.”

Day 1 featured engaging panel discussions, interactive workshops, and book launches, followed by a lively Kavi Sammelan and a captivating Odissi dance performance, bringing together word, rhythm, and movement.

Day 2: Ideas, Enterprise and the Power of Story

Day 2 was inaugurated by Ashok Lavasa, Retd. IAS, alongside industrialists Sushil Kumar Sayal and HKL Magu.

Ashok Lavasa reflected on literature’s enduring role in shaping informed societies and sustaining democratic values, emphasizing the importance of thoughtful dialogue in strengthening institutions.

Sushil Kumar Sayal spoke about the need for economic progress to evolve alongside cultural depth, while HKL Magu called for deeper collaboration between the business world and the creative community.

A key highlight of the day was the launch of two books commissioned by Kala:

• Light of Spring, an anthology of short stories by emerging writers

• Echoes of Dharma by Dr. Sarath, a Japan-based Indian author

These publications reflected Kala’s commitment not only to curating conversations, but also to actively nurturing and publishing meaningful literary work. The day also featured the theatrical storytelling presentation “Re Kabiraa” by The Kahaani Wala, which drew strong audience engagement.

The Showcase: Kala Literature Awards

The Kala Literature Awards, presented on merit, formed the emotional and celebratory highlight of the festival. The awards recognised literary excellence across multiple categories and were keenly anticipated by authors and participants.

The awards were presented by journalist Gyaneshwar Dayal, food and travel blogger Pawan Soni, sustainability consultant Sanjay Sethi, and CSC WICCI President Sonali Dutta.

The evening concluded with the powerful dance drama “Tawayafnama” by The Performing Arts Tribe, bringing the festival to an evocative artistic crescendo.

Literature and Meaningful Conversations

A distinctive dimension of this year’s festival was its collaboration with Let’s Talk, a peer-powered wellness platform that brings people together to exchange perspectives, problem-solve, and support one another through dialogue.

Reflecting on the collaboration, Pooja Chandra and Vivek Pathak, co-founders of Let’s Talk, shared that while literature ignites thought, conversation gives those thoughts momentum. Together, they create spaces where stories deepen understanding, perspectives shift, and shared meaning quietly takes root.

A Vision for the Future

Concluding the festival, Sanjay Chandra shared Kala’s vision of evolving into a sustained cultural platform, one that nurtures emerging voices alongside established ones, and builds a vibrant community rooted in dialogue, creativity, and shared cultural responsibility.

As the curtains came down, Kala Literature Festival 2026 reaffirmed its commitment to celebrating literature not merely as performance, but as participation, a living and evolving conversation.

Ehsaan Noorani Inaugurates Co-Curricular Spaces at EuroSchool HSR

Designed to nurture creativity, emotional well-being, physical fitness, and artistic excellence, the newly launched facilities include a Yoga Room, Multipurpose Hall, Art Room, and dedicated Music Studios for Guitar, Keyboard, and Drums, and a Dance Studio. These purpose-built spaces reflect EuroSchool HSR’s belief that co-curricular education is not an add-on, but a core pillar embedded within the school’s learning framework and pedagogy.

The new learning environment supports skill-based learning across disciplines, mindfulness and wellness yoga, structured music, movement, and visual arts. They enable students to build curiosity, confidence, discipline and emotional intelligence to discover themselves.

Speaking about the initiative, Ms Kavitha Neelayath, Principal, EuroSchool HSR, said, “At EuroSchool HSR, we strongly believe that education must go beyond academics to truly prepare children for life. Our newly inaugurated co-curricular spaces are designed with a clear intent to help students discover their passions early, nurture their talents meaningfully, and grow with confidence. By embedding co-curricular programs within school hours and offering expert-led, structured learning pathways, we ensure that every child receives a balanced and enriching educational experience.”

Mr Noorani’s presence at the inauguration further reflects EuroSchool’s commitment to offering students real-world inspiration through cultural and industry role models, helping them understand the relevance of creative pursuits in today’s evolving world.

About EuroSchool

EuroSchool is one of India’s leading K–12 school networks, with campuses across Mumbai, Pune, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, and Surat.

30,000+ students | 1,800+ educators | 1000+Digital Classes | 480+ GPS Buses | 111,000+ Library Books

Guided by the philosophy of “Discover Yourself”, EuroSchool empowers children to explore their potential and discover their dreams and talents. From Nursery to Grade 12, EuroSchool is dedicated to nurturing curiosity, building confidence, and preparing every child for a rapidly evolving world.

Its Balanced Schooling approach — anchored in the proprietary Learn–Reinforce–Practice–Apply–Experience (LRPAX) methodology — seamlessly blends academic excellence with co-curricular and extracurricular learning. It offers an extensive range of opportunities to develop life skills, creativity and leadership. With a strong focus on child safety - being India’s first school network to earn the global ‘Safe School’ certification, EuroSchool provides secure spaces where children can truly flourish.

All EuroSchool campuses are affiliated with either the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) or the Council for the Indian School Certificate Examinations (CISCE), ensuring globally benchmarked academic standards with the flexibility and care that today’s learners need.

For more information, visit: www.euroschoolindia.com

About Lighthouse Learning Group

Lighthouse Learning Group, formerly known as EuroKids International, is India's leading Early Childhood & K-12 Education group, backed by global investment firm KKR. Driven by its purpose to unlock human potential by igniting the love for learning through its institutions, which includes leading brands like EuroKids Preschool, Kangaroo Kids Preschool, Mother’s Pet Kindergarten, EuroSchool, Billabong High International, Centre Point School, Heritage International Xperiential School, Heritage Xperiential Learning School, Finland International School Maldives and Phoenix Greens School of Learning. Nurturing over 200,000 students every day, Lighthouse Learning emphasizes a 'Child First' philosophy, innovative pedagogy, and child safety. With 2,000 Preschools and 60 K-12 Schools, it empowers 1,850 women entrepreneurs and employs a direct and indirect workforce of over 25,000 people.

The Swami Kuvalayananda Vyakhyan Mala is a distinguished lecture series organized by Kaivalyadhama, honoring the legacy of its visionary founder Swami Kuvalayananda. The series brings together eminent scholars, spiritual leaders, and thought leaders to share insights on yoga, wellness, and holistic living.
 

Subodh Tiwari presenting the Kaivalyadhama coffee table book to Gurudev Sri Sri Ravi Shankar

 

Gurudev arrived on campus, took a brief tour, and addressed an eager gathering who had been waiting with anticipation. He described Kaivalyadhama as a siddha sthana (sacred space) that has been maintained for so many years - a true blessing for the whole world.
 

Yoga as the Art of Being Here and Now

Speaking on yoga as the art of being here and now, Gurudev emphasized the profound significance of Kaivalyadhama's name itself. "Kaivalyadhama represents the final chapter of yoga - Kaivalya Pada," he said. "You are all very fortunate to have reached this height of yoga."
 

Recognizing Pioneers in the Yoga Movement

Gurudev paid tribute to O. P. Tiwari ji, calling him "an unparalleled example of what it is to have a scientific vision and connect with the ancient wisdom of yoga and vedanta."
 

He also recognized Shri Subodh Tiwari ji, Hon. Secretary & CEO of Kaivalyadhama, for his transformative leadership. Gurudev noted that since Subodh ji took charge of the Indian Yoga Association, the organization has reached new heights, benefiting the entire yoga community.
 

A warm welcome - Gurudev Sri Sri Ravi Shankar arrives at Kaivalyadhama, accompanied by Shri Subodh Tiwari
 

A Message of Healing

In one of the most touching moments of the address, Gurudev spoke about Kaivalyadhama as a sanctuary for healing. "If you or someone you know is carrying a heavy mind or a broken heart, bring them here," he said, describing the campus as a place where stillness, science, and healing converge.
 

He emphasized that knowledge (jnana) is essential for truly alleviating suffering. "Without knowledge, no one can remove another's sorrow," he said, encouraging people to bring those struggling with mental health challenges to such sacred spaces where they can find support and perspective.
 

Gurudev engaged in a meaningful question-and-answer session with students and attendees, addressing queries ranging from devotion and spiritual practice to dealing with criticism, maintaining work-life balance, and understanding education in the modern context.
 

As Gurudev concluded his visit, the energy on campus was palpable. "The whole world is lucky to have this precious knowledge of how to live life," he said, acknowledging Kaivalyadhama's crucial role in preserving and sharing yogic wisdom through scientific inquiry and therapeutic application.
 

About Kaivalyadhama
Founded in 1924, Kaivalyadhama is dedicated to the scientific research, education, and therapeutic application of yoga. Under the visionary leadership of its founder Swami Kuvalayananda, the institution has consistently worked to bridge ancient yogic wisdom with modern scientific understanding.

From L to R Mr. Noel D'souza, Mr. Rajhans Tapke, Mr. Samrat Mukherji, Mr Bhagwan Bhanji, Ms. Maria Goretti, Mr. Sunhil Sippy & Mr. Cyrus Mody

More than a geographical chronicle, the book captures Versova as a living cultural ecosystem shaped by its fishing communities, heritage homes, artists, filmmakers, cuisines and everyday rhythms that have defined the area for generations.

Conceptualised as an act of cultural documentation rather than a brand exercise, the book brings together photographers, filmmakers, writers and long-time residents to preserve stories that often remain undocumented, even as the city around them rapidly transforms.

Speaking about the intent behind the book, Cyrus Mody, Founder and Chief Executive Officer, Viceroy Properties, said, “As a real estate developer, Viceroy’s role is not just that of building structures. Our ambition is to become a part of each neighbourhood we operate in and that means understanding and respecting what came before us.

Versova is more than a micro-market. It is a living, breathing cultural ecosystem shaped by generations of artists, filmmakers, fishing communities and families with stories that often go undocumented. Before adding a new silhouette to Versova’s skyline, we felt it was important to understand and honour these chapters. This book is dedicated to them.

For us, this is not about marketing a project. It is about being a responsible, respectful participant in the fabric of the city. By documenting Versova’s storytellers and spaces, we hope to contribute something meaningful to this unique community.”

The visual language of the book is anchored by renowned photographer Sunhil Sippy, whose images capture Versova beyond the postcard view. “Versova reveals itself in moments. The early mornings at the Koliwada, the quiet lanes behind the beach, the homes that carry decades of memories. This book allowed us to slow down and observe Versova as it truly exists, intimate, layered and deeply human.”

TV presenter, Chef and Author Maria Goretti, who has long shared a personal connection with Versova, reflected on the emotional resonance of the project. “Versova has always had a soul that quietly draws people in. Being part of this book felt like revisiting memories and sharing stories that deserve to be remembered. It is a love letter to a neighbourhood that has given so much to the city’s creative and cultural life.”

Filmmaker and owner of Filmalaya, Samrat Mukherji, added, “Versova has played a silent yet significant role in shaping Mumbai’s independent cinema and artistic communities. Collaborating with Viceroy Properties to document its stories is important because places like this influence creative thought in ways that are not always visible. This book captures that influence beautifully.”

Singer and member of India’s first boy band, Sherrin Varghese highlighted the importance of preserving lived narratives. “While I am a resident of Madh, few people realise the deep historical relationship it shares with Versova, from shared communities and coastal traditions to even the same pin code. The book brings this overlooked connection to the forefront, offering a fuller understanding of Versova beyond its familiar image. Documenting these layered relationships was important, and it is what made this initiative by Viceroy meaningful enough for me to be a part of.”

The book was unveiled at an intimate gathering at Kino’s Cottage, Versova, a space deeply embedded in the neighbourhood’s cultural and cinematic history. The event brought together contributors, members of the local community, artists and creative voices who have shaped Versova over the years. Set against the backdrop of Versova beach, the evening served as a meaningful culmination of the collaborative journey behind the book, celebrating shared memories, conversations and the spirit of the neighbourhood that inspired it.

The unveiling also marked one of the initiatives under The Good Neighbour, Viceroy Properties’ ongoing commitment to engaging thoughtfully with the communities and cultural ecosystems of the neighbourhoods it operates in, beyond the act of building alone.

Versova, Once Upon A Shoreline stands as a cultural archive and a tribute to a neighbourhood at the intersection of memory and modernity. Through stories and visuals, the book seeks to preserve Versova’s identity at a time when urban change often outpaces remembrance.

About Viceroy Properties

Viceroy Properties was founded in 2017 to redefine Luxury Real Estate Development in the Mumbai Metropolitan Region. With a strong focus on Meticulous Planning, Aesthetic Design and Impeccable Craftsmanship, the firm's first two projects have won 13 International Awards across Design, Construction and Sustainability. As of mid-2024, Viceroy Properties has delivered over 1.2 mm sq. ft. in Thakur Village, Kandivali (E) with another 3.3 mm sq. ft. under various stages of planning/development.

About ‘The Good Neighbour’ – An Initiative by Viceroy Properties

The Good Neighbour is a long-term initiative by Viceroy Properties that seeks to engage meaningfully with the neighbourhoods it operates in, beyond the act of development. Rooted in the belief that responsible building begins with understanding place, people and history, the initiative focuses on celebrating local culture, preserving lived narratives and fostering community participation. Its first initiative was a curated heritage walk through Versova, designed to highlight the area’s lesser-known histories, cultural intersections and everyday stories that have shaped the neighbourhood over generations. Through projects such as the heritage walk and the coffee table book Versova, Once Upon A Shoreline, The Good Neighbour reflects Viceroy’s commitment to being a thoughtful, respectful presence within the urban fabric of the city.

Students of Ranga Rao Memorial School for Differently Abled perform a classical dance during the 37th Annual Day celebrations in Mysuru

The event was inaugurated by Sri Nataraj S., Joint Director, Directorate for the Empowerment of Differently Abled and Senior Citizens, who also presided over the prize distribution ceremony. He was joined by Sri Raghavendra K.S., DDWO, Department of Empowerment of Differently Abled & Senior Citizens, Mysuru, and Sri R. Guru, Chairman, RMSD.

Dr. Ashoka D.R, K.A.S, Director, Directorate for the Empowerment of Differently Abled and Senior Citizens, Bangalore, connected online to address the students and parents, as he was unable to attend in person due to work commitments.

Speaking at the Annual Day Celebration Sri Nataraj S., Joint Director, Directorate for the Empowerment of Differently Abled and Senior Citizens said, "Ranga Rao Memorial School stands as a model of compassionate education. The students here are not just learning they are leading us toward a society that values dignity, accessibility, and equal opportunity.  I deeply appreciate RMSD’s commitment to nurturing independence and dignity among visually impaired girls. The school continues to be a beacon of hope, offering holistic education, vocational training, and emotional support to its students.”

On the occasion Mr. R. Guru, Chairman, NR Foundation said, "Each Annual Day reminds us why this school exists to empower, to uplift, and to celebrate the limitless potential of our girls. Their courage and creativity inspire us to build a more inclusive tomorrow, where every child is seen, heard, and celebrated."

The evening featured a spirited cultural programme by the students, showcasing their talent and confidence through classical dance, folk performances, martial arts demonstrations, skits, and multilingual medleys. Among these, the technology-enabled skit performed by differently abled students emerged as the main attraction, drawing admiration for its innovative use of assistive tools and creative storytelling. The theme of the evening celebrated resilience, inclusion, and the transformative power of education.

The Annual Day reaffirmed RMSD’s legacy of empowerment, drawing heartfelt applause from attendees and reinforcing the importance of inclusive education in building a compassionate society.

Shri. N.V.Nagasubramaniam, Chairman, Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan, Coimbatore Kendra is presenting awards to Smt. Meena Subramanian (3rd from left) & Dr. Soumya (4th from left)

Srimathi Meena Subramanian was honoured and recognised for her exceptional contribution to Carnatic music along with Dr.Soumya at the inauguration of “29th Pongal Music Festival” in Coimbatore. The award recognizes her outstanding contribution to Carnatic music through her mellifluous renditions, imparting Carnatic music to a large student community to preserve Carnatic music for the future, producing special features like Tirupavai, Tiruvambavai, music workshops, lecture-demonstrations, scholarly work, and collaborations with legendary musicians. Meena Subramanian was renowned in Coimbatore and Kongunadu as one of the senior disciples of her Guru Sangeetha Kalanidhi M L Vasanthakumari and bringing the ‘MLV bani’ to Coimbatore. 

Smt. Meena Subramanian

The award was presented by Sri. N. V. Nagasubramaniam, Chairman of Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan, Coimbatore Kendra. He said in the past 50 years Smt. Meena Subramanian’s contribution to Carnatic music has been phenomenal. Her unique and incredible voice and her clear diction, knowledge of Tamil and Sanskrit are her assets and she has carved a niche for herself from a very young age. He emphasised this award and also recognised her effort in perpetuating Carnatic music in Kongunadu through her music and building a strong student community to preserve Carnatic music for the future.

She has several awards to her credit.

About Meena Subramanian:
Smt. Meena Subramanian is a highly regarded Carnatic Musician from Coimbatore. With an initial training in vocal music from Sri Ramakrishnan, and later with the popular Kannan brothers of Coimbatore, she honed her expertise further under the tutelage of Sangita Kalanidhi Dr. M.L.Vasanthakumari, and remained her senior disciple, performing several concerts across the globe with her Guru as well as on her own.

She is an ‘A’- grade artiste of the All India Radio. Her melodious voice, imaginative alapanas, and exemplary command over laya helped her carve a special place in the field of Carnatic music. She has performed in all major sabhas like the Music Academy, Madras, Krishna Ganga Sabha, Mylapore fine Arts, Shanmugananda Sabha, all over the world including in USA, Europe, Singapore, Sri Lanka and Australia. She has accompanied Dr.MLV in her concerts in London at the Royal Albert Hall.

Meena Subramanian graduated from Queen Mary's College, Chennai, and holds a postgraduate degree in Carnatic Music from Mother Teresa University. She served as a staff artiste of the All India Radio, Coimbatore, from 1985 to 2001. She is a recipient of several awards and honours. She is a well-known Guru who has stewarded many budding musicians.

Pongal fete gets all its rustic charm at Dr. MGR-Janaki College for Women

Over 4000 students wearing traditional Half Sari / Silk Sari added perfect color to the celebrations. Kummiyattam, Garagattam, Oyilaatam, Kaavadiyaattam, Silambaattam and Folk Dances performed by students made onlookers tap their feet to the beat. Special children also performed a Gramiya Nadanam in the occasion.

There were shops entirely set up and managed by students. They played vendors and sold Bangles & Balloons, Sugarcane Juice, Butter Milk, Tender Coconuts and Cotton Candy and more. Scenes of Mehendi Artists, Parrot fortune-telling, porridge vending, Bhajji and Sundal stalls brought alive the beauty of village sandhai.

Students’ harmonic chorus of ‘Pongalo… Pongal’ ripped the air when the Pongal came to a boil, the main dish offered to god as thanksgiving for good crop and harvest. With this the festivity came to a close.  

“In this fast-changing world, it is important for us to preserve our tradition and values. Celebrations like this will help younger generation realize the richness of our culture and pass on it to the next generation. Towards this effect, our college is regularly organizing culturally rich events,” said Dr. Kumar Rajendran, Chairman, Dr. MGR-Janaki College for Women.

For more details, please visit: www.mgrjanaki.ac.in

13th Sargaalaya International Arts & Crafts Festival (SIACF) begins from December 23, 2025, to January 11, 2026

Recognised as South India’s premier crafts festival, SIACF 2025 is expected to welcome over two lakh visitors, making it not just an exhibition, but a cultural phenomenon. Organised by Sargaalaya Kerala Arts & Crafts Village and managed by the legendary Uralungal Labour Contract Co-operative Society (ULCCS Ltd.), the festival continues to set benchmarks in responsible tourism and cultural excellence.

Where the World’s Crafts Come Together

What makes SIACF truly extraordinary is its global soul rooted in Indian tradition. The 2025 edition brings together nearly 200 master artisans from 18+ Indian states, alongside celebrated craft practitioners from Belarus, Egypt, Iran, Israel, Jordan, Kazakhstan, Nepal, Russia, Sri Lanka, Syria, Tajikistan, Thailand, Uganda, Uzbekistan, and Taiwan.

Walking through SIACF feels like travelling across continents—each stall revealing a story, a heritage, and a human touch that no machine can replicate. For anyone who values authenticity, craftsmanship, and cultural depth, this is an experience that simply cannot be missed.

An Immersive Festival, Not Just an Exhibition

SIACF 2025 is thoughtfully curated to offer far more than shopping. Visitors are invited to explore beautifully designed Handloom and Craft Theme Arenas, with special emphasis on Geographical Indication (GI)–tagged products, making it a rare opportunity to witness India’s protected craft legacies under one roof.

With over 100 exhibition and trade stalls, including works by National and State Award–winning artisans, the festival offers an unparalleled chance to engage directly with creators and take home pieces of living heritage.

Adding depth to the experience are the Tourism Expo and Tourism Talk Shows, where ideas, innovation, and the future of creative tourism come together—making SIACF equally compelling for professionals, students, and cultural thinkers.

Fashion, Flowers, Food & Festivity

From elegance on the ramp to colour in full bloom, SIACF 2025 celebrates lifestyle in its most artistic form. Handloom Fashion Shows and Children’s Fashion Shows bring textiles to life, while the Flower Show adds a visual spectacle that delights all ages.

No visit to SIACF is complete without indulging in the much-loved Kerala Food Festival—a culinary journey through authentic local delicacies, enriched with regional flavours from states like Rajasthan. Daily live cultural performances by renowned artists ensure that every evening at Sargaalaya feels festive, soulful, and memorable.

For those who enjoy leisure amidst nature, pedal and motor boating along the serene Moorad River offers a refreshing pause—making the festival a perfect blend of culture, relaxation, and adventure.

A Festival That Makes a Difference

Beyond its beauty and scale, SIACF stands out for its purpose. As a flagship rural tourism initiative, the festival plays a crucial role in empowering artisans, sustaining endangered crafts, and contributing meaningfully to the local economy.

This vision is strengthened by the support of the Department of Tourism, Government of Kerala, NABARD, the Ministry of Textiles (through the Development Commissioners of Handicrafts and Handlooms), and the Indian Institute of Handloom Technology, Kannur—ensuring that every visit directly supports livelihoods and cultural continuity.

The Perfect Family & Travel Recommendation

Whether you are a culture enthusiast, a conscious shopper, a family looking for a meaningful holiday outing, or a traveller seeking authentic Kerala experiences, SIACF 2025 is an unmissable recommendation. It is rare to find a destination that seamlessly brings together craft, cuisine, learning, entertainment, and nature—yet Sargaalaya does so effortlessly.

“Sargaalaya is not just a craft village; it is a celebration of human creativity and shared heritage,” says Team Sargaalaya. “Every visit helps preserve living traditions while empowering rural communities through responsible tourism.”

About Sargaalaya Kerala Arts & Crafts Village

Set across 20 acres in Iringal, Kozhikode, Sargaalaya Kerala Arts & Crafts Village is a flagship initiative of the Department of Tourism, Government of Kerala, established in 2011. Developed on a Responsible Tourism model, it provides a permanent creative home for over 100 master artisans and features 27+ eco-friendly cottages, live craft demonstrations, and cultural spaces.

Recipient of the National Tourism Award for Best Rural Tourism Project, Sargaalaya is widely regarded as one of Kerala’s most enriching cultural destinations.

Sargaalaya Arts and Crafts Village: Towards a Global Cultural and Experiential Destination

Sargaalaya Kerala Arts and Crafts Village at Iringal, near Vatakara in Kozhikode district, is envisioned to be developed as a globally benchmarked cultural, experiential, and interpretative destination for Malabar. The proposed development reimagines Sargaalaya not merely as a craft village, but as an integrated cultural institution that interprets regional heritage, nurtures creativity, produces knowledge, and anchors a wider tourism ecosystem across North Kerala. The focus is on creating a living cultural landscape where heritage, contemporary practice, tourism, and community livelihoods intersect.

The development places strong emphasis on immersive visitor engagement through interactive craft zones, daily demonstrations, curated workshops, and guided interpretation. Craft spaces will be reconfigured to allow larger visitor participation, supported by a central craft emporium and dedicated workshops that enable skill development, innovation, residencies, and fair market access for artisans. These interventions ensure that crafts remain dynamic, living practices rather than static displays.

At the heart of the project is the Cultural Experience and Interpretation Centre, conceived as the primary narrative anchor for Malabar. Through curated exhibitions, multimedia installations, immersive digital environments, and interactive archives, the centre will present Malabar’s maritime history, social reform movements, resistance traditions, ecological knowledge, and cultural pluralism, offering visitors a coherent entry point into the region’s layered cultural landscapes.

A series of thematic developments will structure the expanded Sargaalaya ecosystem. The Literature City will position Malabar as a living literary landscape through writers’ retreats, multilingual libraries, translation and publishing labs, literary residencies, and immersive experiences linking literature with place, memory, and social history. The Kalari Village, rooted in the martial traditions of Kadathanad, will integrate training, performance, research, wellness, and interpretation through traditional arenas, therapy centres, and an interactive martial arts museum.

The project places strong emphasis on the documentation and preservation of performing arts, supported by digital archives, performance-capture studios, and immersive experience centres for art forms such as Theyyam, Kathakali, Kalaripayattu, and Mappila songs. A Living Heritage Programme will support artists through apprenticeships, fellowships, residencies, and contemporary collaborations, ensuring continuity alongside creative evolution.

Sargaalaya is envisioned as a year-round cultural destination with robust performance infrastructure, including open-air amphitheatres, indoor auditoriums, flexible venues, and artist residency facilities. Regular performances, curated weekend programmes, and four large-scale annual cultural productions will ensure sustained activation. A flagship attraction, Malabar Symphony, is proposed as a large-scale light-and-sound hybrid immersive storytelling experience narrating Malabar’s maritime history, resistance movements, ecological consciousness, and cultural evolution. Conceived as a thirty-five-minute production staged twice daily, Malabar Symphony is proposed to be developed in collaboration with leading national and international artists, with concept and direction by Revathy, screenplay and narrative by Shankar Ramakrishnan, music composition by A.R. Rahman, sound design by Resul Pookkutty, technical direction by Alphons, theatre direction by Royston Abel, animation and visual effects by Aravind, and voice performances by distinguished artists including Mammootty, Manju Warrier, Parvathy Thiruvothu, Anoop Menon, Sayonara Philip, and Prithviraj Sukumaran.

A dedicated Children’s Cultural and Experiential Zone will offer play-based learning rooted in Malabar’s cultural narratives and ecological contexts, integrating creative activity spaces, nature-linked exploration, and water-based learning experiences. Complementing this are structured workshops and creative learning programmes across crafts, music, theatre, movement, painting, and visual arts, catering to students, artists, tourists, and cultural professionals.

The development adopts a hub-and-spoke tourism model, positioning Sargaalaya as the central orientation and interpretation hub for integrated cultural, riverine, coastal, literary, martial, and culinary circuits across Malabar. River-based journeys and water experiences will function as experiential corridors, foregrounding ecology, heritage, and local livelihoods.

The ecosystem further includes curated food tourism and culinary experiences, including festivals and a floating restaurant rooted in Malabar cuisine; a handloom, design, and retail zone supporting innovation and contemporary applications of traditional textiles; a vibrant flea market strengthening the informal cultural economy; and facilities for social, cultural, and community events, conferences, exhibitions, destination weddings, and themed cultural ceremonies.

To enable deeper immersion, the project proposes on-site accommodation and stay facilities designed in harmony with the landscape and local architectural traditions, supporting multi-day cultural tourism, artist residencies, research stays, and family travel. Through this integrated approach, the upcoming phase of Sargaalaya positions culture as core infrastructure for development, envisioning a globally relevant model for experiential, responsible, and knowledge-driven cultural tourism that interprets Malabar for contemporary and international audiences.

Website: www.sargaalaya.in
Instagram: Sargaalaya – Kerala Arts & Crafts Village Iringal

About ULCCS Ltd.

Founded in 1925 by social reformer Vagbhatananda Guru, the Uralungal Labour Contract Co-operative Society Ltd. (ULCCS) is among India’s most respected worker cooperatives. With 18,000+ employees, 7,500+ completed projects, and global recognition—including a World No. 2 ranking in the Industry & Utilities sector by the World Cooperative Monitor for 3 years—ULCCS stands as a UN-recognised model for ethical, inclusive, and quality-driven development.

If you are looking for one unforgettable cultural recommendation this season, SIACF 2025 at Sargaalaya is it.

Prakash Desai

Among the photographers who embody this philosophy is Prakash Desai, an Indian-origin wildlife photographer based in the United States, whose work reflects decades of dedication to documenting nature as it truly exists. Desai firmly believes that wildlife photography cannot be rushed or recreated through software, and that real images are the result of observation, discipline and time spent in the wilderness.

Over the last several decades, Desai has travelled extensively across forests, deserts, coastal regions and national parks in the United States, Canada, New Zealand and India to capture wildlife and natural landscapes. His commitment to the craft is evident in his journeys of over 5,000 kilometres one way, undertaken five times from the U.S. to Canada, along with deep expeditions into remote habitats. In August 2015, he also undertook a dedicated photography expedition to New Zealand, further expanding his global body of work.

Speaking about the essence of wildlife photography, Prakash Desai said, “Wildlife Photography teaches you humility. Nature works on its own terms, and the photographer must learn to wait, observe and respect the moment. The most powerful images are the ones that remain untouched and truthful.”

Born in Santrampur, Panchmahal, and originally from Bhadeli, Bulsar in Gujarat, Desai completed his schooling in Bilimora before pursuing science at Bombay University. He moved to the United States in 1966 and went on to earn a Bachelor’s degree in Petroleum Engineering from Texas in 1970, followed by graduate studies in Business Administration from the University of Chicago. In 1980, he married Dr. Geeta Desai (Ph.D.), and the couple began working in the Texas oil industry in 1981. Today, he manages his oil-field service business under the name Ohm Tech Inc.

Despite a successful professional career in engineering and business, Desai’s passion for photography continued to grow. What began as a hobby gradually transformed into a lifelong pursuit, with wildlife photography becoming his primary focus. During repeated visits to Ranthambore National Park in Rajasthan, he spent 18 years patiently returning to the forest before capturing a rare photograph of a tigress, a moment that remains one of the most meaningful milestones of his journey.

Desai has participated in workshops and seminars conducted by internationally acclaimed photographers such as Galen Rowell, John Shaw, Willard Clay and George Lepp. His photographs have earned him multiple awards and have been showcased in exhibitions,including a recent major exhibition in India, with another exhibition scheduled to open soon in Vadodara.

Every year, Desai spends nearly six months in Vadodara, travelling across regions such as Leh-Ladakh, Sikkim, Nainital-Kausani, Kerala, the Northeast, Himachal Pradesh, Sasan Gir, Velavadar and the Rann of Kutch. Often accompanied by his wife Geeta, he continues to explore India’s diverse ecosystems, living within national parks from dawn to dusk to document wildlife in its most natural state.

Now 80 years old, Prakash Desai continues to reject image-editing software, relying insteadon evolving camera technology, refined skill and unwavering patience. His journey reflectsthe enduring spirit of wildlife photography, proving that authenticity, dedication and respect for nature remain timeless, regardless of age or profession.

#prakashdesai

Set against the iconic Birla Auditorium, SHIFT 2025 is a melange of arts, craft, culture, media, entertainment and design
 

SHIFT 2025 opens up with an exclusive ticketed preview on 19 December, featuring the celebrated stand-up comedian Anubhav Singh Bassi and independent singer-songwriter Justh, who became a national talking point with his 2023 release 'Chor'. This edition highlights the crafts of Rajasthan and India at large through hands-on experiences such as hand-block printing, pottery, embroidery workshops, and more.
 

The star of the show is often the annual folk-dance circle, headlined by master Kalbeliya artists, which attracts 500+ visitors who dance to folk songs, vibe in unison, and sing along to long-lost songs of Rajasthan. Aaquib Wani, a self-taught experiential designer and founder & creative director - Aaquib Wani Design, who specialises in spaces, festivals, sets, interiors, and branding, will be hosting a session on design. SHIFT is also hosting an entrepreneurship fireside chat between Ajaita Shah, founder of Frontier Markets & Nitin Jain, CEO - Indigifts. There's also a dedicated kids' area at the festival featuring pop-up stalls and experiences curated especially for children. Actor Rytasha Rathore and indie filmmaker and cultural documentarian Suruchi Sharma will host a talk on the idea of rewriting female narrative on screen.
 

The vibrant cultural communities of Jaipur find a common ground at SHIFT as they indulge in 3 days of intriguing art experiences
 

Bachata, photography, sketch, digital media presence, poetry writing and other workshops are also an integral part of the festival lineup. The Infinity Open-Mic gives a stage to emerging artists from Jaipur who perform poems, songs, stories, and more.
 

The festival also stresses greatly on organising creative commerce and understanding the business of creativity. The programming also includes talks around sustainability, design, culture, and the arts ecosystem.

KL Rahul and Jatin Sapru crushing a workout together!

KL Rahul Opens the First Episode

In the pilot episode, KL Rahul gets candid about his life beyond cricket: love, discipline, family, and the quiet routines that keep him grounded.

On how Suniel Shetty Manifested Him:

“He always said he manifested a cricketer in his family — and it came true through a son-in-law.”

On why Suniel Shetty inspires him:

“His morning routine never changes. Even after a late-night shoot, he’s up by 5:30–6 AM, does yoga or meditation, then hits the gym. Before anyone wakes up, he’s done. By 7 AM his granddaughter wakes up, and he spends the morning with us before heading to work.”

On if cricket has ever made him cry:

“Many, many, many times. It's not that players don’t want to open up. We just don’t say it in front of the camera. Like every other Indian, we think that looking for help is a sign of weakness. It took me a lot to say that, okay, I will take therapy. It's helped me tremendously. I suggest it to a lot of players in the dressing room, as well.

But, there’s still a big section of people that still think it’s a sign of weakness - things like he’s lost the drive to play cricket or he’s become soft. I’ve heard the term “soft” so many times about me because I am soft spoken, don’t give headline interviews, and slip under the radar. It pisses me off the most.”

About Like an Athlete

Hosted by renowned sports presenter Jatin Sapru, Like an Athlete is Humans of Bombay’s newest IP — a raw, immersive series that follows top athletes through a day in their life. Jatin explores their training, diet, sleep, recovery, and the discipline that drives them.

A New Chapter for Humans of Bombay

With Like an Athlete, Humans of Bombay expands into sports storytelling, bringing audiences closer to the human beings behind the jerseys. The series highlights the values that define champions — resilience, focus, consistency, and humility.

Watch the full episode here: www.youtube.com/watch?v=6A9VuqEZrCw

Hope in Motion-Streaming on Jio Hotstar

For generations, women here have sown, weeded, and harvested. But they rarely decided what to grow, how to sell, or who owned the land. That domain belonged to men - until now.

Through Breakthrough’s long-term engagement in rural communities, these young women began questioning the status quo - and discovered that the power to lead, negotiate, and own was not a privilege, but a right.

The result was transformative: an all-women farmers’ collective, reclaiming spaces long dominated by men. Today, they take decisions on farming together, cultivate confidence alongside crops, and are redefining what leadership looks like in India’s fields.

“Their story proves that when women lead, equality grows stronger - and communities thrive,” says Vimala Rajkumari, Creator of Hope in Motion, a four-part documentary series streaming on JioHotstar. “The idea behind the series is to make these invisible stories visible - to take the language of impact out of boardrooms and policy papers, and into the mainstream.”

A new language for impact storytelling

Hope in Motion is not a campaign film. It’s a cultural moment - an experiment in what its creator calls impact entertainment. The series, supported by CSR and foundation partners such as Flipkart Foundation, United Breweries Limited, American India Foundation, and Breakthrough, captures what social transformation truly looks like on the ground - one life, one community, one ripple at a time.

The Seeds of Change episode - featuring Breakthrough’s work - digs deep into gender and social norms that shape rural India. In a country where women constitute 64.4% of the agricultural workforce, yet remain largely invisible in ownership and decision-making, the episode poses a quiet but radical question: Who gets to be called a farmer?

Beyond awareness: shifting narratives

For years, Breakthrough has worked to shift gender norms across India by fostering aspiration, agency, negotiation, and leadership in young people. The women of Seeds of Change embody that philosophy.

"Challenging gender norms takes courage and collective strength. These women farmers are proof that equality grows where women lead", says Pritha Chatterjee, Lead - Organisational Positioning, Breakthrough.

Their story isn’t framed in charity or empowerment tropes - it’s about agency and equality. And Hope in Motion ensures that such stories aren’t confined to NGO reports or academic panels. They’re now finding space on prime-time screens, reaching audiences who can influence perception and policy alike.

“We’ve always believed that social change needs a cultural shift,” says Vimala Rajkumari. “Storytelling is how you move people emotionally before you move them structurally. That’s why Hope in Motion exists - to build a bridge between awareness and action.”

From awareness to action

As India charts its path to the Sustainable Development Goals, such narratives remind us that gender equality isn’t an abstract goal - it’s growing, quite literally, in the fields of Uttar Pradesh.

And as Hope in Motion continues to spotlight real people driving real change, it quietly signals a larger shift - one where purpose and storytelling walk hand in hand.

Watch ‘Seeds of Change’ here. 
 

Produced by Vsual Brewery, in collaboration with Breakthrough.

Priyani Vani Panditt

The concept of Raageet beautifully bridges the world of classical ragas and Hindi film music, offering audiences not just a concert, but a musical education wrapped in emotion and nostalgia. The evening’s star performer, Priyani Vani Panditt, left the audience spellbound with her soulful renditions and engaging storytelling. Listeners not only hummed along but were deeply moved by her ability to weave history, knowledge, and melody into one seamless experience.

Priyani Vani Panditt getting felicitated

The live band elevated the Raageet experience with their exceptional artistry and seamless coordination. On Keyboard was Anay Gadgil, Sushant Sharma was on Guitar, Farooque Latif Khan on the Sarangi, Ashish Jha on Tabla, Harsh Nasery on Percussions and Raghav Sharma on Bass Guitar. While the harmonious voices of Anurag Patil, Anurag Puranik, Bandita Bharti and Vaishnevi Bhuyar in the chorus added a rich, layered dimension to the concert’s soundscape.

Audience

The show was directed by Geet Lavesh Vani. Creative mind behind the Raageet concept, Ashish Pandit, a noted lyricist in the Indian film industry, continues to bring together art, knowledge, and performance in a format that is both educational and entertaining.

Show Director - Geet Lavesh Vani

Talking about the show, Priyani Vani Panditt shares, “I am deeply grateful to the Mumbai audience for the overwhelming love and response to Raageet. It’s truly heartwarming to see people connect so passionately with our rich musical heritage. Every performance is a celebration of the timeless bond between ragas and Bollywood melodies, and I feel blessed to share that joy with my audience.”

Fresh from her month-long multi-city tour across the US and Canada, Priyani recently performed in Edmonton, Toronto, Calgary, Fort Lauderdale, Lubbock, and Milwaukee, where she also conducted a special workshop titled “Indian Melodies” for western music students at Texas Tech University’s School of Music.

Proudly managed by team Thinkerz, Priyani Vani Panditt has an exciting line-up of performances both in India and abroad. She will soon be performing in Akola, Agra, Jodhpur, Indore and Singapore, enchanting audiences with her soulful renditions. Set to end 2025 on a high note, Priyani already has several sold-out shows lined up for 2026. Continuing her mission to make Indian classical-based melodies more accessible and loved across the world, she remains a true ambassador of musical excellence. 

For more updates, follow Priyani Vani Panditt – www.instagram.com/priyanivanipanditt/?hl=en

Echoes of Becoming: Neena Singh Unveils Her New Series at Bikaner House

A Practice Rooted in Transformation

For more than two decades, Neena Singh has approached painting as an existential inquiry, a way of understanding what it means to live, feel, and become. Her new works build on this lifelong pursuit.  “There is a compelling need within me to create something out of nothing, to turn silence, emptiness, or even uncertainty into form and energy,” she says. Each canvas reflects this urge toward renewal: a gesture of resilience, a way of asserting presence, and a reminder that becoming is a continuous, unfolding process.

A Language of Colour, Breath, and Motion

Colour remains at the centre of Singh’s artistic vocabulary. It expands and contracts like breath, sometimes intense and overwhelming, sometimes whisper-soft and translucent. Her shifting hues recall the atmospheric power of Turner’s great works, where form dissolves into light and sensation. Yet Singh’s abstraction is distinctly contemporary: it resists conclusion, refuses to settle, and invites viewers to linger in the thresholds of experience.

As artist and critic Aditya Shirke notes, Singh’s canvases “hold the sensation of something in motion… a shifting field that refuses to be pinned down.” These are not representations but enactments, spaces of flux where time feels elastic, stretched between memory and emergence.

A Journey of Faith, Intuition, and Inner Necessity

Singh describes her practice as an “inner necessity”, a way of being that rises above reason. Her works echo the spontaneity of expressionism while remaining grounded in a deep intellectual richness shaped by her background in sociology, psychology, and decades of introspection.

According to art historian Dr. Pheroza J. Godrej, Singh’s paintings are “invitations to explore themes of rejuvenation and the unseen forces shaping our world.” The interplay of colour, light, and spontaneity creates emotional landscapes that feel both expansive and intimate, artworks that breathe, shift, and speak in their own voice.

Echoes of the Artist’s Inner and Outer Worlds

The exhibition also reflects Singh’s personal journey, growing up in small-town North India, navigating the constraints of patriarchy, and discovering art as a space of freedom and transcendence.

Her works are instinct-driven, stripped of cerebral weight, and rooted in a belief that art can reveal another world, even if only for a moment.

Rahul Kumar, former Editor (Arts), STIR, writes, “Her paintings are not simply objects; they are a sustained practice of life itself, always luminous, always in motion, reminding us that nothing is final. Everything is becoming.”

Delhi: A Homecoming

Presenting Echoes of Becoming in Delhi marks a symbolic return for the artist. Singh studied at Jawaharlal Nehru University, has deep family roots in the city, and holds enduring personal memories here. “Bringing my work to Delhi feels like coming home, to a place that has shaped me profoundly,” she says.

In many ways, this exhibition is both a continuation and a culmination, a circle completed and reopened.

About the Artist

Neena Singh is a self-taught artist with fourteen solo shows and numerous group exhibitions in India and abroad. She holds an MPhil and Doctorate from JNU, New Delhi, and previously served in the Indian Revenue Service for 34 years.  Her works have received international acclaim and feature in prestigious collections such as Lalit Kala Akademi and RPG Art Foundation.

In 2023, she received the Woman Art Award in Berlin, and in 2024, the Artistic Excellence Award by The Global Art Centre, Mumbai.

Exhibition Details

Title: Echoes of Becoming
Artist: Neena Singh
Dates: 8 – 17 November 2025
Venue: Main Art Gallery, Bikaner House, India Gate, New Delhi
Timings: 11 AM – 7 PM (Open to Public)

Visitors are invited to experience a collection of paintings that are not fixed statements, but living, breathing spaces, luminous, rhythmic, and always in motion.

National Sangeet Natak Akademi Awardee Pt. Rajendra Prasanna, Mr. Harvansh Chawla, Chairman and Chief Patron, Mr. Pradeep Jain, Padmashree Pt. Ashok Chakradhar, Padmashree Vidushi Nalini and Padmashree Vidushi Kama

Founded by Mr. Harvansh Chawla, a distinguished lawyer and passionate advocate for India’s cultural heritage, Rishal Music Trust aims at preserving and promoting the nation’s artistic traditions. Mr. Chawla envisions the Trust as a dynamic platform to nurture and elevate classical musicians, folk artists, and cultural art forms, providing them with recognition, mentorship, and opportunities to thrive in today’s world.

The press conference offered insights into the Trust’s vision ahead of its formal launch later this year in December. The initiative aims to create opportunities for artists, promote cultural mentorship, and celebrate India’s rich musical heritage.

The event began with a welcome address by Founder Trustee Ms. Monika Kapoor, who introduced the Trust’s mission and acknowledged the distinguished guests present. The gathering featured a musical performance by National Award-winning artists Rajesh Prasanna and Rishab Prasanna, showcasing the depth and beauty of India’s classical music traditions.

A key highlight of the evening was the collective launch of the book “Sufi Music: Through the Eye of Ustad Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan”, authored by Dr. Jagriti Luthra Prasanna and published by B.R. Rhythms. In a symbolic gesture, 24 dignitaries, including Padma Shri awardees and leading industrialists, jointly unveiled 24 ribboned copies of the book, marking the confluence of music, art, and mentorship that lies at the heart of Rishal Music Trust’s vision.

The Trust also announced the association of 12 Padma Shri awardees as patrons and mentors:

1. Padma Shri Vidushi Sumitra Guha, Indian Classical Vocalist

2. Padma Shri Vidushi Nalini, Renowned Kathak Dancer

3. Padma Shri Vidushi Kamalini, Renowned Kathak Dancer

4. Padma Shri Pt. Ronu Majumdar, Flute Maestro

5. Padma Shri Pt. Ritvik Sanyal, Renowned Dhrupad Vocalist

6. Padma Shri Pt. Shivnath Mishra, Sitar Maestro

7. Padma Shri Pt. Bharti Bhandhu, Indian Classical Vocalist

8. Padma Shri Pt. Umakant Gundecha, Renowned Dhrupad Vocalist

9. Padma Shri Ustad Moinuddin Khan, Sarangi Maestro

10. Padma Shri Pt. Shashidhar Acharya, Renowned Chhau Dancer

11. Padma Shri Ustad Ghulfam Ahmed, Sarod Maestro

12. Padma Shri Pt. Ashok Chakradhar, Renowned Poet

Speaking about the Trust’s vision, Mr. Harvansh Chawla said, “Rishal Music Trust is designed to be a platform where India’s classical and folk traditions are celebrated, supported, and sustained. Our goal is to provide artists with mentorship, resources, and opportunities to ensure that these invaluable art forms continue to inspire future generations.”

Ms. Monika Kapoor added, “The participation of our Padma Shri mentors and 24 dignitaries in the symbolic book launch reflects their dedication to preserving India’s cultural heritage. Our mission is to create meaningful connections between artists, patrons, and industry leaders, enabling India’s artistic legacy to flourish.”

The press conference concluded with a Q&A session, giving media representatives the chance to interact directly with the Trust’s founders and patrons, followed by dinner and networking. The session offered insights into the Trust’s vision, upcoming initiatives, and its commitment to promoting India’s classical music, folk traditions, and cultural art forms.

About Rishal Music Trust

Rishal Music Trust is a platform dedicated to supporting, preserving, and promoting India’s classical and folk music and cultural traditions. Through mentorship programs, curated initiatives, and collaborative opportunities, the Trust aims to elevate artists and cultural art forms, fostering a vibrant ecosystem for India’s artistic heritage.

MMTC-PAMP, India’s only London Bullion Market Association (LBMA) accredited Good Delivery gold & silver refiner, is proud to launch the Lord Shiva 50 grams 999.9+ purity Silver Bar, an exceptional collectible that celebrates the timeless devotion to Lord Shiva, a deity deeply revered in Hinduism.

MMTC-PAMP unveils the 50gm Lord Shiva Silver Bar - a timeless tribute to cosmic power and devotion

This silver bar is a spiritual masterpiece, a visual embodiment of Lord Shiva’s cosmic power, serenity, and divine guardianship. Crafted with the Finest Swiss Craftmanship blended with India’s rich artistic heritage, the front side of the bar showcases Lord Shiva seated in a meditative pose amid a celestial backdrop. His aura radiates calm strength as he cradles the planet Earth in his hand, symbolizing his role as the protector and creator of balance in the universe. Surrounding him are cosmic elements like galaxies, planets, sacred symbols such as the Trishul and Damru, and intricately designed motifs representing the boundless energy of Shiva.

The reverse side of the bar is engraved with the revered Shiva Yajur mantra. This sacred verse is a meditative chant invoking the peaceful yet transformative energy of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati, symbolizing their divine union of strength and compassion. The mantra is lined by motifs of Mount Kailash and the Trishul, symbols associated with the Mahadev, further enhancing the cultural and spiritual resonance of the bar.

Speaking on the launch, Mr. Samit Guha, Managing Director & CEO at MMTC-PAMP said, “We are delighted to announce the launch of Lord Shiva Silver Bar. The bar is a sacred convergence of spirituality, art, and precious metal. Crafted for this festive season, which is one of the most spiritually significant periods in our culture, this collectible serves as a reminder of devotion, peace, and transformation. We are proud to offer our customers a symbol that goes beyond investment, it is a spiritual heirloom.”

The Lord Shiva 50gm Silver Bar stands out for its spiritual resonance as a powerful symbol of divine protection, inner peace, and universal harmony. It is a true convergence of art and divinity, featuring premium craftsmanship and thoughtful design. Minted in 999.9+ pure silver, the bar carries timeless value, both in material and message. Each bar is securely sealed in MMTC-PAMP’s newly designed, Assayer-certified Certicard packaging, which not only guarantees authenticity and positive weight tolerance but also enhances its appeal as a collectible and a meaningful gift.

MMTC-PAMP’s Lord Shiva Silver Bar is a proud celebration of India’s rich spiritual heritage, brought to life through intricate design and positive weight tolerance. This bar is the latest addition to MMTC-PAMP’s growing portfolio of devotional and spiritual collectibles, which includes the Sone Ki Chidiya gold coin, Char Dham Silver Coin Series, Laddoo Gopal 50gm Silver Bar, Ram Lalla 50gm Silver Bar, Ram Lalla 10gm Gold Bar, the Ganesh Laxmi 10 gm Silver Coin, the Char Dham Coin Set and many more. Each of these offerings reflects MMTC-PAMP’s commitment to blending faith, culture, and precious metals into meaningful heirlooms for collectors and devotees alike.

Every product created by MMTC-PAMP goes through a rigorous purification process to ensure 999.9+ the purity of the metal. To validate the authenticity, every MMTC-PAMP product carries a unique number and comes packaged in Assayer Certified Minted Cards. Each gold and silver product bought from MMTC-PAMP offers positive weight tolerance, which guarantees that every coin or bar one buys weighs more than the listed weight, ensuring customers receive the highest value for their investment. MMTC-PAMP products are available at their exclusive stores, leading jeweller partners, online marketplaces such as Amazon and Flipkart, or directly from MMTC-PAMP’s official website, www.mmtcpamp.com/shop

About MMTC-PAMP

A joint venture between Switzerland-based bullion refinery, PAMP SA, and MMTC Ltd., a Miniratna and Government of India Undertaking. MMTC-PAMP is the only LBMA-accredited gold & silver good delivery refiner in India and is accepted across global commodity exchanges and central banks. The company seamlessly marries Swiss excellence with Indian insights. MMTC-PAMP India Pvt. Ltd. is internationally recognized as an industry leader in bringing global standards of excellence to the Indian precious metals industry.

MMTC-PAMP has received several awards since its inception from local and global industry bodies for Refining, Brand and Sustainability. Notably, MMTC-PAMP is India's First Precious Metals Company to have Science-based Emissions Reduction Targets Approved by SBTI. Recognized by the Asia and India Book of Records, MMTC-PAMP is acclaimed as the country’s only brand providing the purest gold and silver coins and bars with 999.9+ purity levels and positive weight tolerance to consumers. Adding to its laurels, MMTC-PAMP was honoured as India’s Most Trusted Brand of the Nation at The Brand Story- Indian Brand and Leadership Conclave & Awards, 2024. 

Asian Paints Sharad Shamman: Cholte Cholte Chollish - A Royale Tribute to Kolkata

The film is crafted as a stylised visual journey that blends nostalgia with innovation. Moving steadily through the years, it showcases the evolution of Pujo: from bamboo pandals and radio songs of the 1980s, to the rise of theme pandals in the 1990s, the introduction of social causes and global attention in the 2000s, and the digital celebrations of today with AR and VR.

At the heart of the storytelling lies Kolkata’s beloved yellow taxi, reimagined as a moving canvas and doubling up as the brand ambassador for the 40th year of Asian Paints Sharad Samman. As it comes to life it asks Gattu to come on a journey which takes the viewer through the 40 years of creative transformation that Durga Pujo has seen. With the turn of every decade the taxi surface changes to hand-painted motifs and designs brought to life with Royale Glitz, each capturing the creative excellence of that particular decade. The music and the words capture the different genres of music that have played during Pujo for each decade. The yellow taxi becomes a metaphor for Kolkata’s own journey, carrying forward the collective pride, artistry, and spirit of Pujo.

The campaign also introduces a fresh, youthful tonality designed to engage younger audiences and first-time Pujo celebrants. From its catchy, contemporary soundtrack to the playful, stylised visuals that take Gattu on a joy ride through the decades, every element is crafted to feel vibrant and immersive. This unique treatment ensures that while the film honours tradition, it also speaks the language of today’s generation - energetic, imaginative, and visually arresting.

Speaking about the film, Amit Syngle, MD & CEO, Asian Paints said, “Festivals are reflections of their times, showing how societies evolve and express themselves. With Choltey Choltey Chollish, we wanted to mirror Kolkata’s journey and the way creativity, community and imagination have shaped Pujo across generations. The reimagined 40 yellow taxis bring this transformation to life across 4 decades. For Asian Paints, completing 40 years with Sharad Shamman is a way of honouring that creative spirit and keeping it alive in a form that resonates with every era. This film celebrates tradition while showing how it continues to inspire new voices and new expressions.”

Speaking about the film, Sujoy Roy, Chief Creative Officer – Ogilvy North, said, “With this film, we wanted to create more than a tribute—we wanted to create an experience. The yellow taxi became our storyteller, carrying with it four decades of Pujo’s transformation. This film is a love letter to Kolkata, to its traditions and its imagination, and to the enduring legacy of Sharad Shamman.”

With its cinematic treatment and layered storytelling, Choltey Choltey Chollish is not simply a campaign film—it is a cultural celebration that pays tribute to the artisans, the pandals, and the people who have kept the spirit of Pujo alive for generations.

Through Choltey Choltey Chollish, Asian Paints reaffirms its role as a custodian of Kolkata’s Pujo, celebrating not just the passage of time but the timeless creativity that makes the city’s greatest festival a living, breathing work of art.

Asian Paints Sharad Shamman: Cholte Cholte Chollish - A Royale Tribute to Kolkata

You can view the campaign here: Asian Paints Sharad Shamman: Cholte Cholte Chollish – A Royale Tribute to Kolkata

About Asian Paints Limited

Since its founding in 1942, Asian Paints has become India’s leading and Asia’s second-largest paint company, with a consolidated turnover of ₹33,797 crores (Rs. 338 billion). It continues to uplift spaces, transcend the boundaries of colour and design, creating a positive impact in the lives of customers. The organization operates in 14 countries and has 26 paint manufacturing facilities globally, servicing consumers in over 60 countries. Asian Paints has always been a leader in the paint industry, innovating and introducing new concepts in India like Colour Ideas, Beautiful Homes Painting Service, Colour Next, and Asian Paints Beautiful Homes Stores. Asian Paints manufactures a wide range of paints and coatings for Decorative and Industrial use and also offers specialized painting and interior decor solutions. The decorative business portfolio also includes the SmartCare range for waterproofing, WoodTech products for wood finishes, and the Adhesives range for all surfaces. Asian Paints also offers a wide range of Home Décor products and is one of the leading players in the integrated decor space in India, offering Modular Kitchens and wardrobes, Bath Fittings and Sanitaryware, Decorative Lightings, uPVC windows and doors, Wall coverings, Furnitures, Furnishings, Rugs, etc.

For our email disclaimer please visit www.asianpaints.com/disclaimer.html#email

Over the course of two days, through this online auction, the auction house brings together extraordinary works— rare advertising ephemera that echo our social history, evocative travel and industrial posters, treasured antiquarian books, and iconic cinema publicity material. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or new to the world of art, this sale offers a heartfelt chance to acquire pieces rich in provenance and history, each with its own story to tell.

The live auction opens on 22nd and closes on 23rd  August, with lots closing sequentially between 6:00 pm and 8:15 pm IST on the final day. To truly connect with these treasures, private previews will be held in New Delhi from 18th-22nd August, between 10:00 am and 8:00 pm daily— by appointment, offering an intimate glimpse into these remarkable works.

The Fine Arts section (Lots 36-64) is anchored by celebrated names in Modern Indian art. Highlights include Ganesh Pyne’s Portrait of Rabindranath Tagore (c.1961), a rare and intimate mixed media work estimated at Rs. 4,000,000-6,000,000; M.F. Husain’s Untitled (c.1976–77) oil on canvas (Rs. 3,000,000-4,500,000); H.A. Gade’s Untitled (c.1958–59) (Rs. 1,800,000-2,700,000); and K.H. Ara’s Still Life with Bottle (late 1950s, Rs. 1,600,000-2,400,000). Also featured is Jamini Roy’s Flight into Egypt, designated a National Art Treasure (non-exportable) and estimated at Rs. 800,000-1,200,000.

The catalogue extends to early etchings and woodcuts by B.B. Mukherjee (1936–48), a lyrical F.N. Souza Landscape (1962), an intense Rabin Mondal oil on paper painting on the Death of the first Congo President Patrice Lumumba (1962), a wonderful wooden sculpture by Piraji Sagara, and works by Gopal Ghose, Ambadas, Sunil Das, G.R. Santosh, C. Douglas, Rekha Rodwittiya, Shibu Natesan, and Binod Sharma. Select lots (40, 41, 43, 44 & 94) are located in London and will be sold under the Merchanting Trade Auction protocol as per Clause 32 of the Terms & Conditions.

Lot6a | Hercules Cycles with the famous German Shepard mascot | Print on cardboard, early 1950s

Vintage Advertising & Posters: India in Print

The Vintage Advertisements and Posters section (Lots 1–35) charts a vivid visual history. Standout pieces include a late-19th-century Bradford Dyers’ Association trade poster (“Colour is the King of Cloth”), a rare Erasmic “Himalaya Bouquet” perfume panel (late 1920s–30s), and a 1932 Karachi religious calendar on Sanatan Dharma. The glamour of mid-20th-century cinema is captured in a set of 20 Lux Soap Filmfare advertisements featuring stars from Suraiya to Asha Parekh, while a set of four Agfa promotional half-sheet posters reflects the early popularisation of photography in India.

Politically charged and civic material includes the “Quit Goa!” poster (c.1961) and Government of India Five-Year Plan charts on Steel, Power, and Foodgrains (1961–62). Travel and tourism are represented by three Kashmir posters from the 1950s, Indian Railways designs for Puri and Ujjain, French colonial Africa posters, and a remarkable suite of 16 Air-India posters spanning regional “See India” themes and the celebrated 1967 “Shikar” design.

Rare Books & Cinema Publicity: Cultural Time Capsules

Completing the auction is a selection of Rare books & catalogues, focusing on personalities such as Robert Clive of Plassey, Toru Dutt, Sarojini Naidu, Nicholas Roerich, Rabindranath Tagore, M.F. Husain & F.N. Souza; and cinema publicity material posters, lobby cards, booklets, and stills, underscoring deRivaz & Ives’ standing as a market leader in Indian and world film memorabilia, with rare posters of Mahal (1949), Sangram (1951), Mughal-e-Azam (1960), Maya (1961), Neel Kamal (1968), Mera Naam Joker (1970), Sholay (1975) and a focus on the cinema of Raj Kapoor & Dharmendra as some of the Cinema Highlights.

Bidding, Previews & Buyer Information

• Absentee Bidding: Opens 19 August, 3:30 pm IST; closes 22 August, 9:00 am IST

• Live Online Auction: 22 August, 10:00 am IST start; closes 23 August in timed intervals between 6:00 pm and 8:15 pm IST

• Private Previews: 18–22 August, 10:00 am–8:00 pm in New Delhi & Mumbai (by appointment)

• Buyer’s Margin: 15% on winning bids

• All works sold on a “AS IS” condition basis; complimentary Condition Reports available on request

• Reserves: Set at or below the lower estimate

• Currency: For accounting, USD 1 = INR 86; GBP 1 = INR 116

Full catalogue, registration details, and Terms & Conditions are available at derivaz-ives.com. All registration details must be finalised prior to bidding; KYC and financial references may be required.

About deRivaz & Ives

deRivaz & Ives is one of India's premier auction houses, renowned for its carefully curated sales across Modern and Contemporary Indian Fine Arts, Antiquarian Books, Prints & Photographs, Vintage & Classic Automobiles, and both Indian and Hollywood Film Memorabilia including the Popular Arts, Photography, Crafts & Collectibles. The platform bridges scholarly cataloguing with digital accessibility, offering seasoned collectors and new audiences alike a seamless and immersive auction experience. 

Akshay Kumar walks the ramp for Falguni Shane Peacock presented by Pearl Academy
 

Known for dressing global icons and redefining couture with futuristic flair, Falguni Shane Peacock unveiled a collection that blurred the lines between fantasy and fashion. Inspired by the opulence of Indian maharajas and maharanis, the collection reimagined royal heritage with modern silhouettes, rich embroidery, and intricate detailing - exuding grandeur, drama, and theatrical finesse. Bollywood icon Akshay Kumar brought star power to the runway in an ivory bandhgala, paired with black sunglasses - a look that evoked princely elegance and effortless charisma.
 

In a rare and immersive opportunity, over fifty students from Pearl Academy, spanning disciplines such as fashion design, styling, communication, interiors, and business, worked behind the scenes with India’s leading couturiers, managing fittings, styling, sequencing, and backstage operations. They not only experienced the high-stakes energy of a live couture show but became part of its making. For many, it was a dream turned reality - a defining moment where classroom learning transformed into adrenaline-fuelled, hands-on experience that most design students can only imagine.
 

This wasn’t their first encounter with the world of couture. Just weeks earlier, Pearl Academy students had travelled to Paris for a Global Immersion Programme, where they participated in exclusive workshops and secured backstage access to the prestigious Paris Haute Couture Week - one of only two official couture weeks in the world, the other being India Couture Week. From the fashion capital of the world to India’s most celebrated couture showcase, Pearl students are consistently stepping into real-world roles at the most exclusive fashion events globally - a reflection of the institution’s deep commitment to preparing future-ready professionals.
 

“We have always led with creativity - not by following trends, but by setting them,” said Aditi Srivastava, President, Pearl Academy. “This collaboration reflects our deep commitment to experiential learning. Our students don’t just watch fashion happen - they help make it happen.”
 

“It was a pleasure to collaborate with Pearl Academy for our showcase at Hyundai India Couture Week. Partnerships like these are always energising and add a meaningful layer to the overall experience,” added Falguni Shane Peacock.
 

This partnership reflected a shared commitment to creativity without boundaries. On one side, Falguni Shane Peacock - synonymous with future-forward couture and a celebrity clientele spanning Beyoncé to Bollywood. On the other, Pearl Academy - a leader in creative education for over three decades. This powerful combination of cutting-edge fashion and academic excellence spotlighted Pearl Academy as the only educational institution at India Couture Week 2025, reinforcing its position as a changemaker in design education.
 

The show was a celebration of bold vision and technical precision - and for Pearl Academy students, it became a transformative experience. Their backstage involvement underscored the institution’s commitment to preparing industry-ready talent who don’t just learn design - they live it.
 

Backed by a pedagogy rooted in experiential learning, Pearl Academy continues to lead with future-focused initiatives - from launching India’s first Metaverse campus to global immersions in London, Paris, Milan, and New York, and social rehabilitation programmes like the Tihar Jail Fashion Laboratory. The institution consistently pushes boundaries in how design is taught, experienced, and applied.
 

As the only academic institution partnering with India Couture Week, Pearl Academy continues to lead from the front - transforming premier fashion platforms into powerful learning environments. For its students, this was not just an assignment. It was a front-row seat to their own future.
 

About Pearl Academy

Pearl Academy, a unit of the Creative Arts Education Society (CAES), is India’s leading creative education institution. Established in 1993, the institution offers a diverse range of Bachelor’s and Master’s degree programmes including B.Des/M.Des., BBA/MBA and short-term certificate courses across disciplines such as Fashion Design, Communication Design, Product Design, Interior Design, Textile Design, Fashion Communication, Fashion Styling, Fashion Business, and more.
 

With campuses in Delhi-South, Delhi-West, Mumbai, Bengaluru, and Jaipur, Pearl Academy provides world-class education backed by its affiliation with the Rajiv Gandhi National Institute of Youth Development (RGNIYD), a Government of India Institution of National Importance on par with prestigious institutions such as IITs, IIMs, NIDs, and AIIMS. This partnership ensures that effective 2024 intake, all students will receive accredited degrees recognised by the Government of India.
 

With a legacy of 32 years, Pearl Academy has evolved into a globally renowned institution of higher learning, placing a strong focus on global exposure, entrepreneurship, technological expertise, and life skills. The institution has been a catalyst for success for its students through its constructive tie-ups with industry bodies such as FDCI, Tech Mahindra, Reliance Brands Ltd., MAC, and international universities. With an impressive track record of consistently exceeding a 99% placement rate, Pearl Academy has over 700 top recruiters hiring its graduates annually. The institution boasts 15,000+ successful alumni and continues to be a driving force in the creative industries, both in India and globally.
 

For more information, please visit www.pearlacademy.com.

What is Razorpay POS Self-Healing Technology, and why does it matter?

Simply put, Razorpay POS Self-Healing is an AI-driven system integrated across all Razorpay POS devices that constantly monitors device performance to pre-emptively identify and fix issues that typically disrupt in-store payments. These include unstable network connections, memory-hogging apps, and degrading battery performance. Instead of reacting after a problem occurs, as most traditional POS devices do, Razorpay POS Self-Healing solves these issues automatically, without any merchant intervention.
 

Razorpay’s Self-Healing POS ensures uninterrupted operations even during peak business hours
 

In today’s fast-paced retail environment, such disruptions have become all too common. According to Razorpay's merchant insights, 65% of merchants across the industry face transaction failures due to unstable network during peak hours, 60% experience app slowdowns, and battery-related complaints consistently rank among the top 3 pain points.
 

As digital payments and footfall continue to grow in India’s offline retail sector, merchants are under increasing pressure to maintain smooth, uninterrupted operations at the checkout counter. Razorpay POS Self-Healing aims to redefine POS reliability by giving the device the ability to fix itself before merchants even notice an issue.
 

The system continuously monitors over 10 early warning signals to proactively detect and resolve issues without manual intervention. All these fixes happen silently in the background, with no intervention required from merchants. It is powered by three intelligent AI-driven engines that work behind the scenes to:

• Ensure stable connectivity by intelligently switching to the strongest available network with SignalHeal constantly monitoring network health to prevent disruptions during transactions.

• Maintain high app performance by clearing background resource drains during peak hours, as SpeedHeal boosts processing speed by up to 65% through real-time memory optimization.

• Extend device life and uptime by activating power-saving protocols and auto-flagging battery issues as PowerHeal detects irregular battery behavior and initiates timely replacement support.
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With Razorpay’s Self-Healing POS, businesses will experience up to 50% fewer failed transactions, 65% faster app performance, and 99% device uptime, ensuring uninterrupted operations even during peak business hours.
 

These outcomes are driven by intelligent capabilities like automatic network optimization and real-time protocol switching, which together reduce network-related issues by up to 25%. In addition, smart power management extends battery life by up to 5 extra hours per charge, while faster processing speed enables 30% quicker checkouts, minimizing customer wait times and significantly improving the in-store experience for both businesses and customers.
 

Commenting on the launch, Kunal Gothivarekar, Head of Razorpay POS said, "The future of retail lies in intelligent systems that don’t just support operations, but anticipate and adapt to them. With Razorpay POS Self-Healing, we’re moving beyond reactive support to a model where the device takes ownership of its performance. This launch is a reflection of our belief that the next leap in offline commerce will come from invisible, proactive infrastructure that lets businesses focus on what matters—serving customers and growing their business. As the scale and complexity of in-store payments grow, reliability can no longer be a luxury. It must be built into the system. Razorpay POS Self-Healing is our step toward making that vision a reality for every business in India."
 

By addressing everyday operational disruptions at their root, Razorpay’s Self-Healing POS marks a shift toward smarter, self-reliant retail infrastructure. As India’s offline payments ecosystem scales rapidly alongside rising consumer spending, reliability at the checkout counter becomes critical. This innovation offers merchants a way to keep pace, reducing friction, enhancing service quality, and helping businesses stay resilient in a high-growth, high-demand environment.
 

About Razorpay POS
Razorpay POS, the offline payments arm of Razorpay, is a comprehensive payment solution that empowers businesses to streamline their offline payment processes, enhance customer satisfaction, and enable businesses to give their customers a superior in-store checkout experience. With state-of-the-art devices like mPOS, Dynamic Soundbox, Android Smart POS, POS Mini, and Pin-on-Mobile, Razorpay POS helps businesses stay ahead of the curve. Through the acquisition of Ezetap (now Razorpay POS) in August 2022, Razorpay forayed into the world of offline payments. With this vertical, Razorpay has evolved into an omnichannel payment and banking platform for businesses that helps Indian businesses with comprehensive and innovative solutions built over robust technology to address the entire length and breadth of the payment and banking journey for any business.

What's in a title?

It started with Thorium—element 90. A silvery metal with nuclear potential along India's southern coast. Safer, cleaner, often forgotten. Then came the wild idea: what if an ancient Indian civilisation had already cracked nuclear power generation? What if they encoded it in Sanskrit as "Tula-Drona"—the balance of Dronacharya's advanced knowledge from the Mahabharata?

3,000-year-old ancient Indian tech meets modern conspiracy against the backdrop of Mumbai in this bestselling urban fantasy thriller

And the zero? While most techies would have slapped a 1.0 at the end and been satisfied, they got philosophical. India did not just give the world zero; it gave śūnyā. Not merely a numerical placeholder, but a cosmic void encompassing emptiness and infinite potential. Zero is just a number, whereas śūnyā encompasses emptiness and a state of non-being, often linked to spiritual concepts such as emptiness and the potential for all things to be.

The Story

Set in Mumbai, the novel follows teenager Ansh Chatterjee (Teen. Conspiracy nerd. Maggi addict) who accidentally uncovers a secret challenging historical narratives and pitting him against a 3,000-year-old destructive force.

Picture Thuldrun: cities humming with thorium cores, equations dancing in Sanskrit across holographic walls. A civilisation powered by science, not sorcery – peaceful, powerful, possibly interstellar. A rebellion against limiting ancient humans to just hunters and gatherers.

So, the next time you're in Dadar – pause – look down. Those pavement cracks? Perhaps not civic negligence but fractures in spacetime, remnants of something the universe tried to erase.

The Creators Speak

"The past doesn't need resurrection – it needed translation. We explore the intersection where India’s 'pracheen' wisdom meets modern technological possibility," says Samiran Ghosh.

Sheetal Choksi adds, "Podcasts are just books waiting to happen. We turned our mythology-versus-science debates into literary jazz."

Reader Praise

"The city isn't just a setting—it's a living, breathing character."

" You can picture the streets, the people, the energy of the city. It’s a fresh take with a gripping plot that doesn’t feel overdone or clichéd.”

“Thrilling mix of tech/sci-fi and mythology set in the heart of Mumbai, and so much more (including a chapter from a dog’s perspective)”

Is this the first of many? See that infinity symbol? That's your clue.

Get Your Copy

Available in hardcover and Kindle on Amazon.in and internationally via Amazon the US, Australia, Canada, France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, Poland, Spain, Sweden, and the UK. Grab whatever legal stimulant keeps your neurons firing and get comfortable. A reality-bending ride awaits.

Follow the book on Instagram @bookofthuldrun.

The Grand Prize-winning photograph by Mr. Steven Triet from Vietnam revealing the golden rice terraces of Lao Chai, Mu Cang Chai

Themed ‘Beautiful Wetlands’, the festival, which is now in its 16^th year, attracted 11,835 entries from 155 countries. The Grand Prize of USD $10,000 was awarded to Steven Triet from Vietnam. Hanifi Koç (Turkey), Aref Tahmasebi (UAE) and Pepe Manzanilla (Costa Rica) received Special Jury Mentions, each carrying a prize of USD $1,000.

Dr Muralee Thummarukudy, Director of the (G20 GLI) of the United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD) announced the Festival’s winners.

G20 Global Land Initiative sponsored the festival for the second year running. It is using photography to both shine a light on the loss of terrestrial ecosystems and inspire actions all over the world to keep wetlands healthy in a bid to reach its ambition of reducing degraded land by 50 percent by 2040.

Dr Musonda Mumba, Secretary General of the Convention on Wetlands, and Chief Guest at the event, said, “Wetlands are our planet’s natural infrastructure. They store carbon, clean water, protect us from floods and droughts, and sustain life in all its forms. But they are being degraded and destroyed faster than any other ecosystem.”

“The Global Wetland Outlook 2025 shows the consequences of this loss and the solutions already working around the world. COP15 in Victoria Falls next week is our moment to change course—through global commitment, national action and local innovation,” Dr Musonda Mumba added while speaking at the ceremony.

According to the 2025 Global Wetland Outlook, released last week, wetlands are disappearing at a faster rate than any other ecosystem. About one-fifth of the world’s remaining wetlands are expected to vanish by 2050 without urgent action. The loss is valued at USD 39 trillion in benefits that support people, economies, and nature.

Some of the winning photos will be on display from 23-30 July 2025 at the 15^th meeting of the Contracting Parties of the Convention on Wetlands taking place at Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe.

Nature conservation through an artistic lens

The winning pictures, from the lush paddy fields in Vietnam to flamingoes in a lagoon in Tunisia, offer a breathtaking glimpse into the beauty and ecological diversity of the world’s wetlands.

From serene water bodies reflecting vibrant skies to the quiet resilience of marshland life, each photograph tells a story of balance, survival and the urgent need for conservation.

The winners were selected through a two-tier jury process. The first-level jury included Alex Wides (Italy), Anilkumar (India), Dilek Yurdakul (Turkey), Jaclyn Bringuez (USA), Sahar Al-Zarei (UAE) and Thomas Onyango (Uganda).

The Global Jury curated the finalists and selected the winners. Renowned photographers Charlie Waite (UK), Latika Nath (India), and Nick Hall (USA) made up the Jury.

They observed that this year’s entries covered a remarkable spread of subjects and pushed the boundaries, offering a clever, unusual and deeply human way of seeing wetlands.

They stressed that in a world increasingly shaped by artificial images, photographs grounded in nature give us hope and reconnect us. What’s more, they remind us that even while we’re caught up in our routines, nature is still out there, shapeshifting under sun, wind and tide.

“For 16 years, the Greenstorm Festival has harnessed the power of visual storytelling to ignite a passion for nature conservation among young people worldwide. These evocative images not only showcase nature’s beauty but drive meaningful behaviour change, inspiring the next generation to protect and restore our planet’s vital ecosystems,” said Mr Dileep Narayanan, Founder and Managing Trustee of Greenstorm Foundation.

Narayanan started the festival 16 years ago to raise awareness about the earth’s fragile ecosystems. Greenstorm Foundation runs the annual global photography festival, and is based in Kochi, India.

About Greenstorm Foundation

Greenstorm Foundation is a global creative conservancy committed to inspiring an attitudinal shift among youth toward environmental conservation through the power of creativity. Its flagship initiative, the Greenstorm Photo Festival, has engaged over 12 million young minds across more than 150 countries.

Founded in 2009 in Kerala, India, as a CSR initiative of Organic BPS, a purpose-driven brand consultancy, the Greenstorm has grown into one of the world’s largest youth-led environmental photography movements.

In 2023, Greenstorm joined hands with the G20 Global Land Initiative of the United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD), further amplifying its global impact. A registered not-for-profit public trust in India, the Foundation is led by trustees Anil K Menon, Dileep Narayanan, and George Korah. Over the years, Greenstorm has earned numerous national and international accolades, including the prestigious IAA Olive Crown Award for excellence in green communication.

About UNCCD-G20 Global Land Initiative

The Initiative was set up by G20 Countries in 2020, during the Saudi Arabia Presidency. It supports member and non-member countries and organizations to avoid, reduce and reverse land degradation globally, in all ecosystems. The G20’s ambition is to reduce degraded land globally by 50 per cent by 2040. This includes supporting the international community to achieve its global commitments of restoring, by 2030, one billion hectares of degraded land, an area about the size of the United States.

Young Talent, Timeless Tunes: Armaan Khurana Mesmerizes with Jazz Saxophone at The Brewery

Armaan, a high school student whose fervent devotion to jazz eclipses his years, collaborated seamlessly with As It Is, a collective of young, accomplished musicians: Sidheshwar Malakar, Pranav Joshi, and Riddesh Acharya. His dexterous command over the piano captivated the audience, while his specially curated saxophone renditions offered glimpses of his versatility and deep artistic commitment.

Armaan Khurana Joins ‘As It Is’ on Keys for a Soulful Jazz Evening

Despite being the youngest artist on stage, Armaan exuded a serene confidence, his improvisations dancing gracefully through the chords, reflecting a sensitivity rare in performers of his age. Each note he played was imbued with intention, melding harmoniously into the band’s cohesive, spirited arrangements.

“Armaan is incredibly talented and truly gifted,” remarked drummer Riddesh Acharya, recounting how their paths intersected. Armaan had approached the band with an earnest request to perform alongside them, and after an impromptu audition, his artistry and sincerity left a lasting impression, earning him an invitation to join their live performance.

Throughout the evening, the band meandered through beloved jazz standards and contemporary interpretations, inviting the audience into an immersive sonic journey of tranquility and exhilaration. Every member of the ensemble found their moment to shine, with Armaan’s interplay adding layers of warmth and sophistication to the soundscape.

Reflecting on the evening, Armaan shared, “It was a great experience to play with them. I’m grateful for the chance and hope to do more in the future.”

As Vadodara steadily blossoms as a cultural hub, evenings like these serve as luminous reminders of the talent quietly nurtured within the city, waiting to find its voice. The performance by As It Is, elevated by Armaan’s presence, was not merely a concert but a heartfelt homage to the timeless spirit of jazz and a glimpse into its luminous future in the city.
 

Jaipuri Banno - Celebrating Craft, empowering women, creating timeless fashion

Founded by Neetu Mahajan, a homemaker and mother of two, Jaipuri Banno began not in a studio or fashion hub, but at a kitchen table. With no formal business background and no investors, Neetu followed her instinct and love for Indian textiles. She began working with block prints and pure cotton, creating garments that reflected both tradition and modern ease. What started as a personal pursuit quickly grew into a beloved brand, worn and adored by women across the country.

Jaipuri Banno is best known for its use of traditional hand block printing techniques combined with soft, breathable fabrics. Each garment is made with care by skilled artisans, many of whom come from families with generations of experience in this craft. The prints are thoughtful and earthy, the silhouettes are flattering yet relaxed, and the fabrics are chosen to suit the Indian climate and lifestyle. Whether it’s a kurta for daily wear or something more vibrant for a festive moment, every piece carries the brand’s signature of understated charm.

Among its many collections, two have stood out as favourites among customers and admirers alike — Raag and Patola.

The Raag collection is inspired by the emotional depth and graceful rhythm of Indian classical music. The garments in this line are soft, fluid, and rooted in a calm elegance. Raag uses earthy colour palettes, subtle prints, and flowing forms that feel meditative and timeless. Each piece is designed to be worn and re-worn — for quiet gatherings, moments of reflection, or simply when one wants to feel beautifully at ease. Much like a raag in music, the collection moves gently but leaves a lasting impression.

The Patola collection brings a vibrant and bold dimension to Jaipuri Banno’s offerings. Crafted in breathable cotton and adorned with striking block prints, Patola is tailored into modern silhouettes that are both festive and functional. With jewel-toned colours, geometric and floral motifs, and easy-to-wear cuts, the collection has become a favourite for women who like to stand out without sacrificing comfort. Whether worn to a family celebration, a day at work, or a casual brunch, Patola delivers confident style with a distinctly traditional soul.

At the heart of Jaipuri Banno, beyond the design and fabrics, is a deep commitment to women’s empowerment. As the brand gained recognition, Neetu remained rooted in her vision of using fashion as a tool for social change. With the support of the M3M Foundation, she began training young women from rural areas in garment construction, embroidery, and tailoring. This led to the formation of a collective proudly known as the Dream Weavers.

For many of these women, joining Jaipuri Banno marked a new beginning. Through their training and work, they gained financial independence, creative confidence, and a sense of identity. Today, they are not only the hands behind the clothes but also an integral part of the brand’s story. Their proudest moment came during Times Fashion Week 2024, where the Dream Weavers didn’t just work backstage — they walked the runway, side by side with professional models, presenting the very garments they had helped bring to life. It was a powerful moment of recognition, resilience, and celebration.

Jaipuri Banno’s journey proves that fashion rooted in purpose and authenticity can quietly but powerfully shape the industry. With no need for gimmicks or mass marketing, the brand has built a loyal following through consistency, care, and an honest connection with its audience. Customers often describe the experience of wearing Jaipuri Banno as comforting, graceful, and deeply personal.

Today, the brand’s collections are available on major platforms including Nykaa Fashion, Myntra, Ajio, and through its own official website. Despite its growing popularity, Jaipuri Banno remains focused on small-batch production, ethical practices, and a hands-on approach to quality. Each garment is still designed with the same attention to detail and emotional resonance as it was in Neetu’s early days.

In a market filled with mass-produced fashion, Jaipuri Banno offers something far more meaningful — clothes that carry a story, honour a craft, and support a community. Whether it’s a Raag kurta worn on a quiet evening or a Patola kurti that lights up a celebration, each piece is made to be remembered and re-worn.

Neetu Mahajan’s journey is a reminder that powerful change often begins in the smallest of spaces. From her kitchen table to fashion week, from block printing to building futures, she has woven together creativity, purpose, and resilience into every thread of Jaipuri Banno. And through her work, she continues to inspire women everywhere to wear their roots with pride.

Jaipuri Banno is not just a brand. It is a tribute — to handmade artistry, to cultural continuity, and to the courage of women who dare to dream and do.

Artful & deliberate balance, that’s Raskuan’s quiet power

Experience design is emerging as the new cultural currency: where storytelling, culture, and curation come together to create something deeply personal and fulfilling. These experiences move through customs, geographies, and emotions—woven with precision, purpose, and poetry.

A rising class of Indian explorers—culturally attuned and globally fluent—are quietly shifting how they signal status, identity, and taste. Less ostentation. More orchestration. No longer satisfied with the conventional script, they seek new fascinations, new rituals, and above all, new ways of being.

“We treat an experience the way a director approaches film, or a composer, a score,” says Yaruque Sadique, Co-founder and partner at Raskuan, a pioneering experience design house or shala, as he prefers to call it.

Raskuan doesn’t do one-off commissions or luxury planning. Instead, it creates small, complementary cohorts—never more than a few—brought together for experiences that unfold like theatre: in acts, arcs, and mood. Each is anchored in a global event, artistic movement, or regional tradition. From spirit trail through Hokkaido to solstice rites in Tasmania, no experience is ever repeated, and no detail is left unconsidered.

“It’s not escapism,” says a Raskuan participant, a Mumbai-based investor. “It’s deep presence—within yourself, your group, and the moment. It reorients you.”

Another guest described it this way:

“It’s like being handed a chapter from a book you didn’t know you needed and reading it with people who get it.”

This emerging mode of immaterial possession — connective, immersive, and reflective by nature—is especially resonant among second-generation wealth holders and global professionals, who increasingly value time, originality, and authorship over acquisition.

“They’re not interested in possessions,” says a Delhi-based cultural critic. “They’re interested in self-expression—through time well spent and stories well lived.”

What’s unfolding is more than a passing trend. It’s a cultural reorientation, where wealth is measured not by what one owns, but by how one engages. These experiences are crafted to provoke thought, awaken curiosity, and foster emotional resonance.

Because experience, it seems, is no longer the backdrop to a good life.

It is the art form itself.

And as India’s cultural vocabulary expands, experience design is becoming its most refined expression of taste.

Raskuan is India’s first experience design shala.
Their upcoming experience — A Summer Poured in Hokkaido — traces the island’s spirits, terroir, and seasonal pairings.

To be invited into this experience—or to speak with the team directly—call (080) 4749 4967.

Real Leather. Stay Different. (RLSD), the global campaign driving sustainable innovation in fashion, has just announced something huge: For the first time ever, the RLSD International Student Design Competition final is hitting Taipei - Asia’s buzzing epicentre of fashion, culture and cutting-edge creativity.

Meet the Judges RLSD 2025

Following fantastic events in the fashion capitals of London and Milan, RLSD has now set its sights eastward and will be landing in the heart of Taipei at the renowned AMBI SPACE ONE, Taiwan’s first intelligent, fully immersive venue located in the iconic Taipei 101 skyscraper.

And you could be there too. Imagine this: Four exceptional finalists - category winners from Apparel, Footwear, Accessories, the People’s Choice, plus the newly crowned RLSD Taiwan overall winner - will experience an all-expenses-paid trip to Taiwan. You'll present your designs live, to our influential judging panel that includes Kora Hsieh (Editor-in-Chief, Harper’s BAZAAR Taiwan), Yu Lee (Taiwanese fashion influencer), Christopher Koerber (Managing Director, Hugo Boss), Adrien Roberts (International fashion education consultant) and Mike Adler (International celebrity stylist).

The final and awards night will unfold over two unforgettable days (27–28 October 2025). Finalists will also get to explore Taipei’s Eastern District (Xinyi District), the heartbeat of street style and boundary-pushing individuality. This vibrant neighbourhood reflects the RLSD spirit - merging traditional Taiwanese craftsmanship with futuristic, catwalk-ready innovation that sets Taipei apart.

Mike Adler, Celebrity Stylist and RLSD judge, says, “Bringing RLSD to Taipei is incredibly exciting! This is a chance for young designers to shine in one of Asia's most vibrant fashion cities - well known for their unique street style of nonconformist, avant-guard looks. If you’re passionate about designing a sustainable future and ready to seize a life-changing opportunity, enter now. Taipei awaits you!”

Yu Lee, Taiwanese fashion influencer, added, “It’s exciting to see the RLSD international finals held in Taiwan for the first time. Year after year, local designers have brought thoughtful, boundary-pushing work to the competition. This is their moment to be seen on home ground, and it’s a powerful sign of the creative energy growing in this part of the world.”

Each finalist’s winning design will feature in the prestigious RLSD Capsule Collection, touring globally at major events. Finalists will also benefit from extensive publicity linked to the competition.

Enter today: The RLSD competition is open to current fashion students and graduates from 2023 or 2024. Designs must feature at least 50% cattle hide leather in Apparel, Footwear or Accessories categories.

Don’t miss your chance! Entries close at 11:59 pm (BST), 30 June 2025. Enter now at: rlsd.internationaldesigncomp.com/competition-event/international-2025

Notes to editor

About Real Leather. Stay Different.

Real Leather. Stay Different. is a global campaign that has reached some 750 million people and hundreds of thousands of students. It makes the case for leather (and other natural materials) and for making the best use of society’s waste, particularly the hides that are the by-products of the dairy and meat industries, before looking to the petrochemical industries for manmade materials. Flexible and durable, leather is the natural alternative to fast fashion.

About Arts Thread

Arts Thread is the world's leading digital platform for emerging artists & designers and a launchpad for the next generation of creative talent. Arts Thread has built relationships with over 950 creative institutions connecting to over 400,000 students in approximately 130 countries, partnering with leading brands, organisations, events, media to help launch the next generation of creative talent globally.

For further information please visit www.artsthread.com.

Meet the Judges 2025

Following celebrated events in London and Milan, the competition now sets its sights on Taipei, underscoring Asia's rising prominence as a global hub for innovation and fashion design.

The prestigious final will be hosted at AMBI SPACE ONE, Taiwan’s first intelligent, immersive venue, situated within Taipei’s iconic Taipei 101 skyscraper - which is also the world’s tallest green building. This exceptional location highlights the intersection of technology, creativity, and sustainability at the heart of RLSD’s mission.

Category winners in Apparel, Footwear, Accessories and People’s Choice, alongside the RLSD Taiwan 2025 overall winner, will travel on an all-expenses-paid trip to Taipei. Finalists will present their sustainable leather creations to a distinguished panel of industry experts, including Christopher Koerber (Managing Director, Hugo Boss), Mike Adler (international celebrity stylist), Kora Hsieh (Editor-in-Chief, Harper’s BAZAAR Taiwan), Adrien Roberts (International fashion education consultant) and acclaimed fashion influencer Yu Lee.

Christopher Koerber, Managing Director at Hugo Boss and a longstanding supporter of RLSD, commented, “Supporting the RLSD competition continues to be deeply rewarding. Bringing the 2025 final to Taipei is especially exciting as it provides an extraordinary platform for nurturing young talent and encouraging designers to embrace sustainable natural materials like leather. This initiative is critical, promoting innovation and environmentally responsible practices that are essential for the future of fashion.”

Kerry Brozyna, President of the Leather & Hide Council of America, stated, “In just five short years, RLSD has evolved into a globally recognised initiative, successfully advocating for leather as a sustainable alternative to synthetic materials. Hosting the international final in Taipei marks a new chapter, highlighting our ongoing commitment to industry leadership, innovation and the importance of empowering the next generation of designers. This is just the beginning of our vision - a world where sustainable natural materials are the first choice for designers everywhere.”

Finalists will also benefit from extensive media exposure and the opportunity to feature their designs in the prestigious RLSD Capsule Collection, showcased globally at prominent fashion and sustainability events throughout the year.

The competition remains open to current fashion students and graduates from 2023 or 2024. Designs must contain at least 50% cattle hide leather and fall into one of three categories: Apparel, Footwear, or Accessories.

Entries close at 11:59 pm (BST), 30 June 2025. Full details and entry submissions: rlsd.internationaldesigncomp.com.

About Real Leather. Stay Different.
Real Leather. Stay Different. is a global campaign that has reached some 750 million people and hundreds of thousands of students. It makes the case for leather (and other natural materials) and for making the best use of society’s waste, particularly the hides that are the by-products of the dairy and meat industries, before looking to the petrochemical industries for manmade materials. Flexible and durable, leather is the natural alternative to fast fashion.

About Arts Thread
Arts Thread is the world's leading digital platform for emerging artists & designers and a launchpad for the next generation of creative talent. Arts Thread has built relationships with over 950 creative institutions connecting to over 400,000 students in approximately 130 countries, partnering with leading brands, organisations, events, media to help launch the next generation of creative talent globally. For further information please visit www.artsthread.com.

Bharatanatyam Exponent Savitha Sastry in The Song For Eresha

Slated for a theatrical and OTT release across the United States, UK and Canada in August 2025 and later in India, A Song for ERESHA is a landmark production that seamlessly blends classical Indian dance with deeply resonant storytelling. The film follows the complex emotional journey of Eresha, the revered head of a prestigious arts institute, whose unexpected romantic entanglement leads to a dramatic unraveling of the institution she built and of her own inner world.

Crafted in the cinematic style reminiscent of masters like Satyajit Ray and Balu Mahendra, the film has been described as “poetry in motion.” It stars Savitha Sastry in the titular role, and features a predominantly female cast, including over a hundred classical dancers from across India. The film also marks the debut of Bengali actress Mayurakshi Sen, with compelling performances by Mekha Rajan and Arshya Lakshman in key roles.

Adding to the immersive experiences are evocative soundtracks composed by Abhay Nayampally, a Grammy nominee and protégé of the legendary Mandolin U. Srinivas. The musical score builds on Nayampally’s collaborative work with global artists like Tom Schuman of Spyro Gyra.

Directed and written by AK Srikanth- who received accolades for Slow Rivers (Florence Film Awards 2023) and Colors: White (New York International Film Awards 2021) - A Song for ERESHA is a cinematic tribute to the expressive power of Indian classical arts, both on stage and on screen.

Commenting on the essence of the film, Director AK Srikanth said, “A Song for Eresha isn’t about art or artists- it’s an intense exploration of what it means to be human. It captures the full spectrum of emotion: the joy of triumph, the sting of regret, and the delicate balance between light and darkness, logic and emotion. I envisioned it as visual poetry, brought to life by an extraordinary cast and crew, with the goal of bringing powerful storytelling back to the heart of cinema.”

Reflecting on her role, Savitha Sastry shared, “Portraying Eresha was one of the most exhilarating challenges of my career. The character’s journey through love, passion, and vulnerability pushed me to explore emotional depths I’ve rarely touched on screen.”

The preview screening was a resounding success, sparking engaging conversations among attendees about the film’s emotional depth, artistic execution, and cultural relevance. A Song for ERESHA not only reaffirms Savitha Sastry and AK Srikanth’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of Bharatanatyam but also marks a bold step in reimagining traditional Indian art forms for a global audience. As the film prepares for its international release, it promises to leave an indelible mark on both the classical arts and indie cinema landscapes.

"Where Legends Meet Across Time" – A Compelling Campaign by Push 360 Agency for the Malayala Manorama Hortus Art and Literature Festival

The captivating campaign was meticulously crafted for Hortus, the art and literature festival launched in 2024 by the prominent media house, Malayala Manorama. The artwork, crafted by Push 360's Chief Creative Director, Jayaprakash (JePi), imagines a surreal meeting of cultural legends - Vincent van Gogh and Vaikom Muhammad Basheer on the shores of Kozhikode, echoing the festival’s spirit of timeless creative dialogue.

Luerzer's Archive, a leading global authority on advertising creativity, praised the campaign for its artistic merit, communication impact, and conceptual innovation.

V. A. Shrikumar, CMD of Push 360, stated, “The most important thing in communication is to hear what isn’t being said. I’m truly happy about the recognition our work has received, it speaks volumes through its visual narrative. At Push 360, every campaign is born from a deep process of strategic thinking and creative ideation - crafted to elevate and transform brands with purpose and meaningful differentiation.”

Jayaprakash, Chief Creative Director, explained the campaign's concept, "The central idea was to create a visual metaphor for the Hortus event, as a unique intersection of brilliance, where legacies could symbolically interact. We wanted to pay homage to the rich heritage of the 'Hortus Malabaricus' while highlighting its enduring relevance and reinterpret that legacy through a modern creative lens aligned with the festival’s identity.”

About Push 360

Push 360 is a premier branding and public relations agency based in Palakkad, Kerala, India, leveraging a distinguished 33-year history of crafting impactful and memorable campaigns that effectively connect across diverse languages and cultures. The agency has built a strong reputation for its strategic branding, impactful advertising, cutting-edge digital solutions, and effective public relations strategies.

About Malayala Manorama - Hortus

Launched in 2024, Malayala Manorama Hortus is designed to foster intellectual exchange and artistic expression. Inspired by the 17th-century botanical treatise Hortus Malabaricus commissioned by Hendrik van Rheede, the festival celebrates creativity across disciplines like art, literature, and culture, while engaging a wide audience.

Dr. MGR Educational and Research University’s ‘Sketch Up Unparalleled’, a National Cultural Extravaganza on Art & Architecture

Hip Hop Thamizha Dr. Aadhi, graced the occasion as the Chief Guest and shared his inspiring journey from humble beginnings to stardom with the participants.

Reflecting on the Cultural Extravaganza’s success, Dr. MGR Educational and Research Institute University Honorable President. Er. A.C.S. Arun Kumar said, “The Faculty of Architecture, not only succeeded in hosting a nationwide architectural spectacle but also set a new standard for intercollege fests. The National Cultural Extravaganza brought together leading minds from the Indian architectural community to explore the future of architecture. The scholars and practitioners delivered engaging presentations and shared insights on various aspects of architecture, offering valuable perspectives on current trends, challenges and innovations in the field. The overwhelming response, the quality of competitions, and the seamless execution proved that "Sketch Up Unparalleled" was more than just an event—it was a celebration of innovation, culture, and architectural excellence."

Faculty of Architecture, the team behind the Cultural Extravaganza, made invaluable contributions to the event, playing an important role in shaping the Cultural Extravaganza’s agenda and ensuring its success as a platform for meaningful discourse on architecture.

The highlight of the event was the star-studded evening featuring:

• Bigg Boss fame Mr. Raanav and Ms. Soundharya Nanjundan, who engaged in an inspiring interactive session with students, sharing valuable insights about perseverance and chasing one's dreams in the entertainment industry.

• Actress Ar. Kaavya Arivumani, who graced the cultural performances with her presence.

• Hip-hop Tamizha Dr. Aadhi, whose electrifying performance had the entire audience on their feet, also delivered a motivational talk about his journey from humble beginnings to stardom. He emphasized how education and determination can transform lives. He mentioned that college life is a beautiful journey filled with learning, laughter, and friendship, and encouraged everyone to embrace every moment and enjoy the ride — a message that deeply resonated with the student audience.

For more details, please visit: www.drmgrarch.ac.in.

Ghazal singer, producer and composer Nisschal Zaveri

The concert opened with Zaveri’s original composition "Kabhi Kaha Na Kisi Se" in Raag Miyan Malhar. Through a mix of classics and new compositions, he brought a fresh voice to the works of poets like Ghalib and Faiz.

A standout moment was the qawwali "Kar Qubool", composed by Zaveri and performed for the first time. Its energy had the audience on their feet. The performance closed with a heartfelt version of Ghalib’s "Hazaron Khwahishein Aisi."

Speaking after the concert, Zaveri said, “Ghazals hold a kind of stillness that lets you reflect. I wanted the music to feel real, without chasing applause. It was about creating a space where people could connect with the words in their own way, at their own pace. That’s what I hope they felt.”

The evening was anchored by Dastangoi artist Syed Sahil Agha. Among the guests was Shazia Ilmi, National Spokesperson of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).

Zaveri was supported by Shamshir Ali on tabla, Arshad Khan on esraj, Rohan Kadam on keyboard, Abshar Ahmed on guitar, Eshwar Dayal on percussion, and Shashank Saha for sound engineering.

Andaaz brought music and poetry together in a way that stayed with the audience long after the concert ended. For many, it was a return to a genre that continues to resonate across generations, carried forward with Zaveri’s distinctive touch.

Instagram Link: www.instagram.com/nisschalzaveri/?hl=en

World University of Design to Host ANVESHANA 2025
 

The 2nd edition of ANVESHANA will be held on May 8-9 at Triveni Auditorium, Mandi House, New Delhi. The registration is now open for academics, performers, students, and cultural enthusiasts. The event comes at a crucial time when indigenous knowledge systems are gaining recognition worldwide for their sustainable approaches to education, wellness, and social harmony—areas where modern societies are seeking alternative paradigms.

"At a time when India is reasserting its intellectual and cultural leadership globally, this conference serves as a vital platform for articulating the sophisticated knowledge systems embedded in our artistic traditions," said Dr. Sanjay Gupta, Vice Chancellor of World University of Design. "By bringing together diverse voices—from traditional gurus to contemporary researchers—we're not just preserving heritage but actively demonstrating how these ancient principles can address modern global challenges in education, wellness, and sustainable development,” he added.

Since its inaugural edition, the conference has grown considerably, now examining how traditional practices such as the guru-shishya parampara (mentor-disciple tradition), rasa theory (aesthetic emotion), and embodied knowledge transmission can influence modern methods of education, mental health, and social cohesiveness.

Dr. Parul Vats, Dean of the School of Performing Arts, World University of Design, emphasized the transformative potential of India's traditional knowledge, "This conference represents our commitment to positioning Indian performing arts within the framework of knowledge systems rather than mere cultural expressions. We are creating a unique academic space where practice and theory converge, where ancient wisdom meets contemporary challenges, and where performers and scholars can engage in meaningful dialogue across disciplines."

The conference will explore how traditional Indian performing arts address contemporary issues through sessions on music therapy, dance as mindfulness, and the psychological impact of ragas. Topics include gender dynamics in classical forms like Bharatanatyam, the integration of acoustic science in temple architecture, and the role of arts in cognitive and emotional development. Emerging scholars will also highlight the growing significance of Indian performing arts as tools of soft power in global cultural diplomacy.

Twenty curated performances will complement the scholarly presentations, transforming theoretical concepts into lived experience. These demonstrations will showcase how traditional knowledge systems remain dynamic and relevant while addressing contemporary concerns.

The conference will bring together an impressive array of voices, including Dr. Sachidanand Joshi (MS, IGNCA), Shri Prabhat Singh (Theatre & Traditional Arts Connoisseur, Author & Journalist), Sri. Jyothidas Guruvayoor (Ashtapadi Exponent), established performers like Guru Smt. Malti Shyam (Senior Guru, Kathak Kendra, New Delhi) acclaimed dance therapist Shri Tribhuwan Maharaj (Co-founder & Director, KathakNatyam) to name a few, alongside emerging scholars, medical professionals, architects, and educators.

The conference aligns with national initiatives to revitalize India's indigenous knowledge systems and demonstrate their relevance in a rapidly changing world. Discussions emerging from the event are expected to influence cultural policy, educational curricula, and international cultural exchange programs.

With Sandip Soparrkar serving as sutradhar for the evening, and emcee Ratan Pratap introducing each act with warmth and grace, the event transcended traditional performance formats to place disabled artists at the very heart of India’s dance narrative.The showcase brought together dancers representing India’s full 17 recognised disability categories—including blindness, low vision, leprosy-cured status, hearing impairment, locomotor disability, dwarfism, intellectual disability, mental illness, autism spectrum disorder, cerebral palsy, muscular dystrophy, chronic neurological conditions, specific learning disabilities, speech and language disabilities, multiple disabilities, acid attack survivors, and Parkinson’s disease. Each performer brought a unique story to the stage, demonstrating that dance is not about symmetry or speed—but about presence, spirit, and truth.
 

Indrani Mukerjea and Sandip Soparrkar
 

Indrani Mukerjea, Founder of IME, addressed the audience, sharing, “True resilience is not about returning to where you were, but about moving forward differently—with wisdom, grace, and courage. Tonight’s performers didn’t just dance; they dismantled old ideas about who the stage belongs to." Sandip Soparrkar added, “Every movement tonight was a declaration. Dance doesn’t ask for perfection; it asks for heart—and every artist here answered that call.”
 

Following tradition, the evening began with a Saraswati Vandana—an invocation to the goddess of wisdom, learning, and the arts—setting a tone of reverence and inspiration before Soparrkar guided the audience through the tapestry of performances.
 

Among the dignitaries present were Mr. Haresh Mehta, President of the India Fine Arts Council, and Mr. Sampat Singh, Director of Veda Kunba, whose support underscored the event’s commitment to celebrating artistic integrity and social impact. 
 

Indrani Mukerjea and Sandip Soparrkar with performers
 

Dance Without Barriers - The program included vibrant classical routines in Indian Sign Language, breathtaking wheelchair performances, expressive group pieces by dancers with Down syndrome, and soulful solos by survivors of acid attacks and performers managing chronic neurological conditions. 
 

Every participant contributed not just their art but their humanity—shifting the spotlight from disability to ability. Reflecting on their performances, several artists shared moving thoughts, “Parkinson’s may try to control my hands, but today, my spirit choreographed its own rhythm,” said Shail Pandey, a dancer managing Parkinson’s disease. “On this stage, for the first time, my movements told my story—not my condition.” 
 

“Today, it didn’t feel like my wheelchair is a limitation—more like a partner in my performance,” said Surbhi Bansal, a dancer with cerebral palsy. “People often ask me how I dance without limbs. But dance begins long before the body moves. It begins with the will to express—and tonight, that was more than enough,” said Sumeet Jadhav, another performer at today’s event. In a particularly moving gesture, every individual—from performers to choreographers to the emcee and support staff—contributed their time and talent free of charge, standing together in solidarity with the cause.The post-performance press interaction emphasised action over applause, with IME and Soparrkar urging greater accessibility in arts education, more inclusive public venues, and continuous platforms for artists with disabilities.
 

About Indrani Mukerjea Enterprise

Indrani Mukerjea Enterprise (IME) is an umbrella platform for founder Indrani Mukerjea’s passion projects in dance, drama, and acting. More atelier than corporation, IME is dedicated to fostering creative ventures that champion resilience, inclusion, and transformative storytelling—earning the trust and goodwill of public audiences through every initiative. Indrani Mukerjea Enterprise (IME) is an umbrella platform for founder Indrani Mukerjea’s passion projects in dance, drama, and acting. More atelier than corporation, IME is dedicated to fostering creative ventures that champion resilience, inclusion, and transformative storytelling—earning the trust and goodwill of public audiences through every initiative.

Whistling Woods International Campus at Goregaon East, Mumbai

WWI is recognised as a Centre of Excellence by the Media and Entertainment Skills Council (MESC) and has also been awarded the Excellence in Creative & Performing Arts at the 6th FICCI Higher Education Excellence Awards in 2019. Additionally, WWI is globally acclaimed, having been listed among the 'Top Institutes of Influence' by Forbes India.

Applications are now open for all the programmes in Filmmaking, Animation & Game Design, Fashion & Costume Design, Visual Communication Design, Media Communication & Management, Acting, and Music. These courses combine hands-on learning with industry- aligned education to prepare students for thriving careers in their chosen fields.

Entrance Exam Dates

The entrance exams are scheduled for April 24, 25 & 26, 2025, with dates allocated to specific courses as follows:

• 24 April 2025 – BSc Filmmaking, MA Filmmaking, MA Screenwriting, Diploma in Screenwriting, BA Music Production C Composition

• 25 April 2025 – BDes Animation, BDes Game Design, BDes Fashion Design, BA Acting

• 26 April 2025 – BBA Media C Communication, MBA Media C Entertainment, BDes Visual Communication Design (VCD)

How to Apply
Students can register and submit their applications through www.whistlingwoods.co.in or contact +91 8828022630 for additional information.

Participants of the Prithibir Gaari Ta Thamao Project rehearsing in Mumbai

More than a stage show, this vibrant project is a journey through Salil Chowdhury’s life and legacy-told through storytelling, songs, poems, visuals, and rare video interviews with his family and associates from India and abroad. Over the past 10 weeks, more than 20 artists and musicians have been passionately preparing for this unique tribute under the banner of Jadavpur Alumni, Mumbai. While the narration will be in Bengali, the performances will feature a rich tapestry of Bengali, Hindi, and Malayalam songs, reflecting the multilingual brilliance of Chowdhury’s musical journey.

Salil Chowdhury's Bengali song "Prithibir Gaadi Ta Thamao" translates to "Stop the Train of the World" or, more poetically, "Halt the Journey of the Earth." At its core, the song is a poetic and poignant plea -an appeal to pause the relentless pace of the world and reflect on the suffering, injustice, and chaos that often go unnoticed in the rush of life. It captures Salil Chowdhury’s deep social consciousness and empathy for the marginalised and oppressed. The lyrics, filled with symbolic imagery, talk about a world moving too fast, indifferent to pain and inequality. Chowdhury believed there is an urgent need to stop, take stock, and notice the cries of the voiceless. Thus, this masterpiece critiques blind progress at the cost of humanity and compassion.

Salil Chowdhury (19 November 1925 – 5 September 1995) was renowned for blending Indian classical traditions with Western harmonies and folk elements. Chowdhury's work transcended linguistic and regional boundaries, leaving an indelible mark on music, cinema, and literature.

Commenting on the event, Dibyendu Chakraborty, Jadavpur University Mumbai Alumni and former Alumni Association President, said, “As we mark the 100th year of Salil Chowdhury, this project is much more than a tribute. It is a heartfelt journey through the life of a visionary whose music transcended language, region, and era. It serves as a poignant reminder that his melodies, rich with emotion and meaning, still have the power to connect people across time and space, resonating as deeply today as they did decades ago.”

Those interested in attending the event can register or find more details by visiting: www.juaam.com/event_detail/31.

The Jadavpur University Alumni Association Mumbai branch has been organising various cultural events over the years. In March 2010, it organised Heritage of Indian Classical Music at Rabindra Natya Mandir, Prabhadevi, Mumbai. Featuring the performance of doyen Hindustani classical music Late Ustad Rashid Khan, the program aimed to foster connections among the general public and alumni while promoting the rich legacy of Indian classical music. Evoking the nostalgia of Jadavpur University's annual cultural events, where music once filled the air into the early hours, the evening was a heartfelt attempt to revive those cherished memories within the vibrant yet stressful pace of Mumbai life.

The Mumbai Branch of the Alumni Association of N.C.E Bengal and Jadavpur University was established in 1956 to provide an umbrella for alumni to meet, interact, and socialise. In the years that followed, the objective was expanded to include knowledge sharing and charitable activities to benefit society as a whole. More than 350 active members in the Mumbai branch are connected to various core and knowledge-based industries, professional organisations, and Government agencies.

Jadavpur University, Kolkata, is one of India’s most prestigious public research institutions. It is renowned for its academic excellence, progressive ethos, and commitment to intellectual freedom. Established in 1955, the University traces its origins to the National Council of Education (NCE), which was founded in 1906 as part of India’s Swadeshi movement to promote indigenous education. Over the decades, it has evolved into a globally recognised centre for higher learning, research, and innovation, consistently ranking among the country’s top universities.

In 1921, former students of the university initiated a movement to establish the National Council of Education Alumni Association (NCE Alumni Association). When the university moved to its present campus in 1924, the NCE Alumni Association moved along. The Association celebrated its 100th anniversary in 2021, marking a significant milestone for its alumni around the globe.

SICAFA comprised performances across genres, including theatre, music, folk dance, talks, culinary festival, installations, featuring renowned artists, educators, and scholars

Rooted in the belief that a thriving cultural ecosystem is essential for intellectual and social progress, SICAFA connects tradition with contemporary expression, fostering dialogue between artists, scholars, and the wider community. By bringing together performers, creators, and audiences in an immersive cultural experience, Ahmedabad University aims to celebrate artistic excellence and lay the groundwork for a dedicated academic space that will shape the future of performing and visual arts education.

Held from March 11–18, 2025, in partnership with Neekoee Foundation and the Polish Institute New Delhi, the festival transformed Ahmedabad into a vibrant hub of artistic expression, featuring a dynamic mix of theatre, folk dance, music, puppetry, storytelling, and thought-provoking conversations with renowned artists.

The festival, curated by Deepan Sivaraman, Professor, School of Arts and Sciences, Ahmedabad University, and Neena Naishadh, Founder, Neekoee Foundation, opened with the spectacular Manganiyar Seduction, directed by Roysten Abel, where a grand ensemble of 40 Rajasthani musicians performed within a four-story illuminated structure, mesmerising an audience of over 2,000 attendees. The performance set the tone for a week of artistic excellence and cultural immersion.

SICAFA showcased a diverse array of performing arts traditions. Amitosh Nagpal’s Middle Class Dream of a Summer’s Night, a contemporary theatrical piece, brought a fresh and imaginative perspective to modern Indian storytelling. Jeevit ya Mrit, an adaptation of Rabindranath Tagore’s celebrated short story, was presented as an extended monologue powerfully performed by the National Film Award winning actress Seema Biswas and directed by Anuradha Kapur, former Director of National School of Drama.

Folk traditions were equally celebrated, with Purulia Chhau, a spectacular masked dance-drama from West Bengal’s indigenous communities, captivating audiences with its vibrant energy and intricate choreography. Theyyam, Kerala’s centuries-old ritualistic performance, added a spiritual and visually arresting dimension to the festival.

The festival also featured Patrick Sims’ Puppetry Show, transporting audiences, especially children, into a world of imaginative storytelling. Saumya Joshi’s Oh Womaniya, a high-energy performance by Jigna Vyas, delved into the deepest facets of a woman’s identity and experiences, while Girish Karnad’s Hayavadana, adapted by Padma Shri awardee Neelam Mansingh Chowdhry, challenged audiences to rethink human identity and transformation.

The Anirudh Varma Collective (AVC) delivered a powerful closing act, seamlessly blending Indian classical music with contemporary influences, demonstrating the evolving landscape of artistic expression.

SICAFA also curated a special culinary arts segment, featuring India’s rich food heritage and its deep cultural connections. Engaging discussions on contemporary arts and their role in shaping cultural consciousness added further depth, bringing together distinguished artists and scholars for thought-provoking conversations.

A Cultural Movement for Ahmedabad

Beyond a contemporary arts festival, SICAFA was a cultural movement reaffirming the role of the arts in fostering critical thinking, creativity, and interdisciplinary learning. As Ahmedabad University progresses toward launching the School of Performing and Visual Arts, SICAFA will continue as an annual event, deepening the University’s engagement with the arts and further cementing Ahmedabad as a global cultural destination.

About Ahmedabad University

Ahmedabad University is a leading private, non-profit research university offering students a liberal education focused on interdisciplinary learning, practice orientation, and research thinking.

The University has been

• Recognised by the Government of Gujarat as a Centre of Excellence. 

• Accredited with 'A' grade by the National Assessment and Accreditation Council (NAAC).

• Awarded a 5-star rating, the highest awarded in the Gujarat State Institutional Rating Framework (GSIRF) for 2021-22 and 2023-24, by the Knowledge Consortium of Gujarat (KCG), Department of Education, Government of Gujarat.

• Awarded the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) International Award for Excellence 2024 for our University Centre.

• Awarded a 'Platinum Rating' by the Indian Green Building Council for sustainability and green practices.

• Recognised by the UGC under Section 12(B) of the UGC Act, becoming one of the very few private research universities to have been awarded this recognition for select research universities.

• Recognised as a Highly Commended University for Teaching and Learning Strategy of the Year in the Times Higher Education (THE) Awards Asia 2023.

• Awarded the AACSB’s Innovations That Inspire Award 2023 for its Foundation Programme.

• Awarded Gold Rating by the Indian Green Building Council for achieving the Green Building Standards at our University Centre.

The University, established in 2009, is rooted in the vision of one of India’s finest educational foundations, the Ahmedabad Education Society, which was founded in 1935 by nationalist leaders. Programmes at the University range from bachelors to doctoral levels in humanities and social sciences, natural sciences, engineering, and management through its 13 Schools and Centres:

Amrut Mody School of Management | Bagchi School of Public Health | School of Arts and Sciences | School of Engineering and Applied Science | Ahmedabad Design Lab | Centre for Heritage Management | Centre for Inter-Asian Research | Centre for Learning Futures | Global Centre for Environment and Energy | International Centre for Space and Cosmology | Sahyog: Centre for Promoting Health | The Climate Institute | VentureStudio

An urban university, Ahmedabad promotes independent-mindedness and diversity across all dimensions of its activity and helps students mature into critical thinkers who are analytically equipped, practically oriented, and contextually aware global citizens. The University provides a contemporary educational framework that brings liberal arts, sciences, and the professions to engage together in creating new knowledge for addressing complex challenges of the society and in offering majors that merge the boundaries of disciplines to prepare students for the new economy.

Dr. Payal Kanodia shares the stage with the esteemed Guests of Honour, Mr. Javed Akhtar and Mrs. Shabana Azmi Ji, following the grand conclusion of the YFLO Delhi Young Women Achievers Awards

The evening was elevated by an immersive Jugalbandi performance by the legendary Amaan and Ayaan Ali Bangash, maestros who have seamlessly fused tradition with innovation, captivating audiences worldwide. Adding to the magic, Grammy-winning composer Ricky Kej delivered a mesmerizing act, blending world music with Indian classical melodies. His performance not only enthralled the audience but also served as a powerful reminder of the urgent need for environmental consciousness through the universal language of music.

Dr. Payal Kanodia shares the stage with the top awardee of the evening in the Public Service category, Ms. Bansuri Swaraj, in the esteemed presence of dignitaries Mr. Javed Akhtar and Mrs. Shabana Azmi Ji

Dr. Payal Kanodia, Chairperson of YFLO Delhi, reflected on the profound impact of the year, stating, "Unleash: Mind Body Soul has been more than just a theme—it has been a transformative journey. Through over 50 member integration events, community projects, and philanthropic initiatives spanning Education, Health & Wellness, Economic Empowerment, and Sustainable Development, we have touched 1.8 million lives across India, making a tangible difference in the lives of young children and women. This year has been an inspiring celebration of YFLO Delhi’s unwavering commitment as the women’s wing of FICCI, dedicated to empowerment while staying deeply rooted in India’s cultural heritage. Tonight’s event is a testament to the transformative power of women, showcasing how their strength and leadership shape society for a better future. This evening has ignited a spirit of self-discovery, growth, and resilience—laying the foundation for a legacy that will continue to inspire generations to come," she affirmed.

The YFLO Delhi Young Achievers Awards Ceremony celebrated 21 exceptional women who have demonstrated excellence in their respective fields.

Among the distinguished honorees, the most prestigious recognition in the category of Public Service was unanimously awarded to Ms. Bansuri Swaraj, Member of Parliament, New Delhi Lok Sabha Constituency. In her powerful address, she emphasized, “Unleashing Nari Shakti is the way forward for achieving Viksit Bharat as a vision. Just as the gods invoked Maa Durga to defeat the Asuras, FICCI YFLO has collaborated with the Ministry of Culture under the Government of India to empower women. This initiative is aptly titled, as it aims to unleash women’s highest potential, providing them with opportunities and leveraging their contribution to build a developed India.”

She further highlighted the transformative impact of PM Modi’s leadership in advancing women’s empowerment, citing initiatives such as Beti Bachao Beti Padhao, Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana, Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana, Pradhan Mantri Mudra Yojana, Lakhpati Didi Yojana, and the Namo Drone Didi Scheme. She affirmed, “The 18th Lok Sabha will be the last where women are underrepresented. From 2029, the Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam will ensure 33% reservation for women in state assemblies and parliament,” Ms. Swaraj expressed her deep gratitude to the Prime Minister for spearheading these ground-breaking social empowerment initiatives, reinforcing India's commitment to gender equality and inclusive development.

Dr. Sanjeev Kishor Goutam, Director General, NGMA, highlighted the significance of the collaboration, stating, "Empowering women through initiatives like ‘Unleash: Mind | Body | Soul’ paves the way for a stronger social, political, and economic landscape. NGMA is honoured to be part of this celebration of holistic development, where art and culture enrich lives and inspire growth. The presence of distinguished awardees from diverse fields is truly commendable, fostering cultural awareness and empowerment. I look forward to the meaningful conversations and collaborations this event will spark."

The event celebrated 21 distinguished awardees, with the top 10 honorees including Devita Saraf (Entrepreneurship), Princess Gauravi Kumari (Social Entrepreneurship), Harshdeep Kaur (Performing Arts - Singer), Flt. Ltr. Urvashi Tomar (Service to Nation), Mangala Bai Marawi (Art), Isha Talwar (Performing Arts - Film & Entertainment), Amruta Karvande (Service to Humanity), Priya Mishra (Art), Kulsum Shadab Wahab (Social Impact), and Taniyaa Bakshhi (Health & Wellness). The evening also paid tribute to India's legendary artists, Arpana Caur, Madhavi Parekh, and Anjoli Ela Menon, honoring their immense contributions to the world of art. Their timeless creations have not only enriched Indian artistry but also inspired generations, making their felicitation a truly special moment in the celebration.

‘Mind Body Soul Soul’ was a resounding success, reinforcing that women empowerment transcends social impact—shaping politics, economics, and health while paving the way for a more equitable future.

Committee members and dignitaries with President Jyoti Doshi at IMPACT 2025

In the picture, standing left to right, are Mr. Rajas Doshi, Ms. Amisha Himatsingka, Ms. Malini Agarwalla, Ms. Surbhi Ghatlia, Ms. Minal Bajaj, Ms. Kiran Rao, Ms. Jyoti Doshi, Ms. Shabana Azmi, Ms. Nita Dhruva, Ms. Tanvi Jindal Shete, Ms. Bharti Gandhi, Ms. Radhika Kaji, Ms. Bhawana Somaaya, Ms. Rajyalakshmi Rao, and Ms. Priya Tanna.

Ms. Shabana Azmi, legendary actor and social activist, graced the event as Chief Guest and engaged in a thought-provoking conversation with film journalist Ms. Bhawana Somaaya on her five-decade journey in films and the evolving role of women in society.

L-R: Ms. Surbhi Ghatlia, Chairperson, IMPACT 2025 Committee; Ms. Jyoti Doshi, President, IMC Ladies’ Wing; Ms. Malini Agarwalla, Co-Chairperson, IMPACT 2025 Committee

The event also honoured: Ms. Kiran Rao, acclaimed filmmaker, for her impactful storytelling and portrayal of nuanced female characters and Ms. Tanvi Jindal Shete, Founder of the Museum of Solutions, for her pioneering work in education and innovation.

A compelling panel discussion featuring Ms. Rao, Ms. Shete, and Ms. Priya Tanna, President of TRS Creative Consulting, explored their journeys and insights on leadership and resilience.

The evening concluded with a mesmerizing performance of “A Million Sitas” by renowned Bharatanatyam dancer Dr. Anita Ratnam, reimagining Sita as a timeless symbol of strength and empowerment.

Speaking at the event, IMC Ladies’ Wing President Jyoti Doshi remarked, “As we move forward, we must strive for a world that is safer, fairer, and truly equal. So that a hundred years from now, when Women's Day is celebrated, future generations will look back at us with pride, joy, and gratitude.”

IMPACT Chairperson Surbhi Ghatlia added, “Today’s woman knows her strength, and for that strength to create lasting impact, we must embrace change, evolve, and adapt to new ideas and perspectives."

The IMPACT 2025 committee was led by President Jyoti Doshi, Vice President Rajyalakshmi Rao, Chairperson Surbhi Ghatlia, and Co-Chairperson Malini Agarwalla, with advisories Bharti Gandhi and Minal Bajaj, and members Amisha Himatsingka, Nita Dhruva and Radhika Kaji.

IMPACT 2025 was a resounding success, leaving attendees inspired and empowered to drive change.

Gate Arch: A gate arch with horses crafted from Milton Steel bottles

As a brand committed to responsible living, Milton’s collaboration with Kala Ghoda Arts Festival was driven by a shared vision of sustainability. By seamlessly integrating art, travel, and culture, Milton encouraged festivalgoers to embrace eco-conscious choices while celebrating creativity.

Bottle Painting: Happy Festivalgoers from the bottle painting workshop

Gate Arch: An Ode to Sustainability
The entrance to the fest was an artistic rendition of two brilliant silver horses, made entirely of Milton steel caps and bottles, a marvelous showstopper that paid tribute to the spirit of sustainability while showcasing the beauty of upcycled art, at one of the nation’s biggest celebrations of art and culture.

Mirror of Change: A Call for Sustainable Action
Inside the festival, Milton unveiled ‘Mirror of Change’, an awe-inspiring installation. The life-sized horse sculpture, crafted from plastic waste, stood in stark contrast to its counterpart, a mirror reflection-a 3D steel horse made from Milton’s reusable bottles—symbolizing a shift towards sustainability. A strategically placed mirror invited visitors to reflect on the impact of plastic waste and the role of sustainable alternatives.

Bottle Painting Workshop: Travel Sustainably with Milton x The Yellow Brush Studio
Blending art and sustainability, Milton teamed up with The Yellow Brush Studio for a Bottle Painting Workshop, inspiring mindful travel habits. Participants personalized their Milton steel bottles with vibrant, hand-painted designs, choosing travel-themed motifs-backpacking, beach, mountains, or camping-based on their travel style. The message was clear: ditch single-use plastics and embrace artistic, reusable travel companions. Across two workshops, nearly 120 participants of all ages-school kids with parents, college students, working professionals, couples, and art and travel enthusiasts-came together to create, connect, and celebrate sustainable travel.

A Feast for the Senses: Fables & Flavours with Milton Procook
Food and culture intertwined at Fables & Flavours, an engaging session, with cookware partner Milton Procook, saw Dr. Tabinda Jalal Burney, author of Fabulous Feasts, Fables and Family, joined by historian and Master Chef Osama Jalali to take audiences on a nostalgic journey through Awadhi cuisine. Live recreations of traditional dishes brought the rich flavors of history to life, leaving attendees with a deeper appreciation for culinary heritage.

ProCook Contest: Celebrating Culinary Passion with a Fun Twist
Milton’s ProCook Contest added an element of excitement to the festival. Attendees participated by clicking a picture in the cutout standee, impersonating a chef tossing vegetables in the air effortlessly. The top three tagged entries won exclusive discounted merchandise and VIP passes to a special comedy show. This initiative showcased how Milton seamlessly became a part of the festival’s joyous spirit.

Manisha Vaghani, the Head of CSR at Hamilton Group said of the association, “At Milton, we believe that art and sustainability are powerful catalysts for change. Art has the ability to evoke emotions, challenge perspectives, and spark meaningful conversations-making it a vital tool in driving awareness and action for a better world. Our partnership with the Kala Ghoda Arts Festival reflects our commitment to fostering environmental consciousness through creative expression. By engaging the community in initiatives that highlight the importance of sustainable living, we aim to inspire a collective movement towards a greener future-where art not only beautifies spaces but also becomes a voice for the planet.”

Brinda Miller, Hon. Festival Director, KGAF & Hon. Chair, KGA added, “We have been collaborating with Milton since two editions of Kala Ghoda Arts Festival. Together we have forged a great synergy between arts, culture and sustainability, and Milton has been a great partner on ground. In this 25th edition, the Milton products have been attracting the festival audiences through their well-designed, eco-conscious range of household products and we were thrilled to have them on board to reinforce the message of climate consciousness amongst the youth.”

From creative workshops to heritage walks, Milton bottles were by the festivalgoers’ sides, keeping them refreshed while reinforcing the importance of sustainable hydration. Their innovative pop-up store inside the festival, sold special collection bottles, with customised artistic prints and hand painted designs, giving consumers a chance to own a stylish, bespoke bottle as a partner in their everyday adventures.

By integrating innovative experiences with an eco-conscious message, Milton made an indelible impact at KGAF 2025, proving that sustainability and art can go hand in hand. The company is currently also in the middle of an expansive Green Drive, with trees planted for every sale worth a certain amount happening through their D2C website. The initiative has resulted in 13,000 trees already planted, truly embodying Milton’s larger commitment to sustainability.

About Milton Homewares 
Founded in 1972, Milton has been a trusted name in Indian households for over five decades. With a robust network of retailers and strategically located manufacturing units nationwide, Milton is committed to delivering innovative and efficient houseware products that simplify daily living and enhance your everyday moments. Their diverse product range, including cookware, appliances, glassware, serveware, reflects their dedication to quality and customer satisfaction. The brand aims to be in each household, across categories. As a part of the Hamilton Group, Milton continues to evolve along with the ever changing consumer and their lifestyle, bringing positive change to households across India and in over 60 countries worldwide.

Trustee Sujay Jairaj with Amruta Fadnavis at Quintessence 3.0 hosted at the Jamnabai Narsee Campus, Mumbai

This year, the spirited participation of more than 1,900 students in over 200 sports and performing arts events that happened simultaneously, across two days was witnessed.

“Quintessence is a testament to the diverse capabilities of our students. The exhilarating celebration of both athletic prowess and artistic talent provides students a platform to showcase their skills and creativity,” says Trustee Mr. Sujay Jairaj.

The name Quintessence, representing the most perfect example of a quality or class, perfectly aligns with the festival's essence. Symbolized by the logo Joie de vivre, denoting the exuberant enjoyment of life, Quintessence was conceived to foster a celebration of students' talents, both on the field and in creative and performing arts.

Ms. Amruta Fadnavis, an Indian banker, Actor, Singer, and Social Activist who was present at the opening ceremony says, "Quintessence is more than just a festival - it’s a celebration of passion, talent, and teamwork. Seeing so many students come together at the Jamnabai Narsee Campus to express themselves through sports and the arts is truly inspiring. Platforms like these shape young minds, build confidence and create lasting memories."

“This festival sparks personal growth, fosters teamwork, and highlights the joy of collective success. It’s a stage for collaboration and a true reflection of the dynamic spirit that thrives across our schools,” says Trustee Ms. Minal Thacker.

Quintessence continues to cultivate a sense of belonging and pride among the school communities, creating an environment where excellence and joie de vivre converge and is celebrated by the students, teachers & families. It’s a powerful reminder of how both athletics and the arts shape character, inspire excellence and create unforgettable memories.

Discover the true spirit of Quintessence:
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L to R Bharadwaj Mathukumilli and Hormazd Firdosh Sholapurwala Bharat Series a remarkable 12-foot-long single canvas work by M.F Husain

It featured an extraordinary selection of works from several talented artists culminating in a special interest of eight masterpieces- these include Maqbool Fida Husain’s triptych from the Krishna series a captivating three-part canvas painting depicting Lord Krishna life; another is his Bharath series, a remarkable 12-foot-long single canvas work, which is the zenith apogee of various motifs of that time period. Another rare and interesting piece displayed at the exhibition was the ‘Urdu Series’ which depicts seven steeds (Husain’s inimitable motif) painted in fluorescent colours. This commissioned work by the Sholapurwala family, also has inscriptions and couplets that M.F Husain himself painted on the canvas. It was conceptualised and brought to life in his Dubai studio. The fourth Husian piece displayed was from that of the Mother Teresa Series. It is a unique canvas as it demonstrates Mother Teresa joyfully playing with children; a marked difference from the melancholic theme that India’s beacon of hope was usually portrayed as. Lastly, a Krishna Leela series from M.F Husain garnered interest because it depicts a rural dance recital. Each motif is shown in a state of euphoria, represented by the artist’s expression of featureless characters only showing the inner eye and holding various musical instruments. The inner eye represents enlightenment.

The other three masters’ work on display were that of Akbar Padamsee’s metascape series that began in the 1970's till the early 2000’s. His prolonged engagement with the genre of landscapes drew his concern to the mythical and archetypal quality of landscapes. They are characterized by the use of timeless elements, such as the sun, the moon and the earth. The other is from the great visual metaphorist artist Ram Kumar with his unique representation of a village landscape. His work predominantly comprises abstract renditions of landscapes with jagged topographic contours, supplemented with a sense of ambient despair. Responding to different interpretations of landscape as a concept, Kumar uses a variety of textures to map out its architecture through abstract strokes. Lastly, one of the most exquisite works at the exhibition is that of Indian Modernist artist Sayed Haider Raza. He has been widely appreciated for his use of bold colors and profound symbolism, especially the ‘Bindu’, that is deeply rooted in Indian culture.

According to Hormazd Firdosh Sholapurwala, co-curator of this exhibition, art connoisseur, third-generation art collector and serial entrepreneur, “We are thrilled by the resounding success of the exhibition. Over the years my family and I have collected some extraordinary pieces of art including M.F Husains, Akbar Padamsees, Ram Kumars and S.H Razas amongst other masters’ works that we own, only a handful of which were displayed during this event. Hosting an exhibition at the prestigious Travancore House requires proper documentation and proof of provenance. Our main objective in co-curating this exhibition is to showcase how contemporary artists have been inspired by the artists of yesteryears. We at Opulent Art Gallery are also excited about our next big exhibition in India’s cultural capital, Mumbai in the coming months. Following which we will host events in Bengaluru, Chennai, and Hyderabad as well.”

Bharadwaj Mathukumilli, educationalist, philanthropist and third generation art collector whose visionary approach has left an indelible mark on the Indian art landscape states, “Alongside the art exhibition in Mumbai, we at Opulent Art Gallery are planning to open a permanent space to display art and artifacts from the various masters and from talented contemporary artists where they can showcase their works on a more regular basis.”

Pravin.V. Patil, Director of Opulent Art Gallery posits, “This exhibition has been very successful in terms of interests expressed by various buyers and collectors.”

Vandita Mishra, Director of Aem Contemporary & lead curator of this event says, “The motive behind doing these exhibitions is to start a dialogue and eventually establish a longstanding relationship between the contemporary artists and the collectors.”

As the exhibition concludes successfully in Delhi, art lovers, collectors, connoisseurs and the community can look forward to the future showcase in Mumbai in a couple of months.

Invite for the exhibition
 

Akbar Padamsee’s meditative landscapes evoke a timeless stillness, inviting introspection into the passage of time and memory. M.F. Husain’s vibrant explorations of cultural narratives and human emotions interweave the personal and the universal, offering a bridge to collective heritage. Ram Kumar’s abstracted, melancholic landscapes speak to a quiet vulnerability and resilience, reflecting the inner and outer worlds in flux. S.H. Raza’s iconic Bindu and his explorations of form and color anchor the exhibition in a spiritual inquiry that transcends temporal boundaries.
 

K. R. Nariman’s sculptural explorations highlight the fragile symbiosis between humanity and the environment, reminding us of our shared responsibility to preserve ecological memory. Neeraj Singh Khandka’s meditative compositions capture the dynamic interplay of urban existence and environmental fragility, presenting layered narratives that oscillate between chaos and introspection. Rahul Mitra’s practice, steeped in textual and visual interplay, interrogates the temporal shifts in societal structures and global concerns, creating a bridge between past struggles and future possibilities. The collaborative works of Rohan & Roshan Anvekar offer a multidimensional dialogue that connects the personal with the universal, questioning the permanence of identity in an ever-changing world. Sonali Laha’s deeply introspective works explore the layered and transient nature of human existence, seamlessly blending traditional Indian aesthetics with contemporary sensibilities, encouraging viewers to reflect on their own narratives within the continuum of time.
 

As Susan Stewart writes in On Longing, “Objects mediate experience—they carry the weight of memory and emotion, connecting us to the past while urging us to consider the present.”, the self reflective, meditative and autobiographical works merge the internal world of thoughts, emotions and spirituality with the narratives presented. Further blurring the line between the artist and the observer. Looking forward, Between Yesterday and Tomorrow also talks about the future through sustenance, nurturing and preserving, be it nature, the cultural heritage or the human spirit.

Padamjeet Sehrawat's Inspiring Poetry Collection 'Udaan' Launched in Delhi

Kapil Dev, while launching the book, congratulated Sehrawat and praised his efforts in creating a thought-provoking and inspiring collection of poems. He encouraged the audience to adopt a positive outlook on life, drawing from his own experiences as a cricketer.

Padamjeet Sehrawat is a multifaceted personality. He is a cricket commentator, singer, writer, poet and motivational speaker. He has participated in many prestigious tournaments, such as Ranji Trophy and Deodhar Trophy, and has also done commentary for various international sports channels.

'Udaan' is a collection of some such poems, which guide the readers to move forward by taking inspiration from various situations of life. This collection gives readers a new perspective and positive outlook on living life. The poet believes that these poems will definitely be liked by the readers.

A wonderful amalgamation of music and motivation is the specialty of his personality. His singing style and inspirational thoughts give new energy and confidence to people in difficult times of life.

L-R Rohan Gurram & Gary (Bolo) Sargeant (Leaders, Ikonic India)

Rohan Gurram, CEO of Dhandeel overwhelmed by the response said, “I cannot express how happy I am to see such a resounding response we got from the Indian audience at the launch event. The creative talent in India is abundant and we are excited to promote these talents globally. With the launch of the Ikonic India partnership we will be able to bridge the gap between Indian talent and global opportunities. I am sure, the world audience will love the music, fashion, art, and creativity that will be created through this global platform.”

Ikonic India is poised to reach great heights as Dhandeel, with its prowess in data-driven insights and Ikonic Global match their synergies to bring out the best in creative talent and present it to the global audience. India is always known to be the seat of creative talents and now Ikonic India will help them with global exposure thereby changing the entertainment scene in times to come. The glittery launch event on a balmy January evening saw many leading industry names come together. Among the guests who attended the event included leading executives from Madverse Music and Warner Music India.

In days to come, Ikonic India will support creators across music, fashion, film, art, and digital media, unlocking new possibilities in markets such as the U.S., U.K., and the Middle East. This initiative marks a significant step in redefining the global impact of Indian creativity.