Tag: cultural

  • India’s agricultural exports record double-digit surge as farm sector bounces back

    India’s agricultural exports record double-digit surge as farm sector bounces backsocial media

    India’s exports of agricultural and processed food products have recorded a robust 13 per cent increase to $22.67 billion during April-February in the current financial year compared with the same period of the previous year, reflecting the strong performance of the farm sector.

    According to data compiled by the Directorate General of Commercial Intelligence and Statistics, rice exports, including basmati and non-basmati varieties, jumped by 21 per cent during the 11-month period to over $11 billion from $9.32 billion in the same period last year.

    The government started easing restrictions on rice exports in September 2024 on prospects of bumper crops, around a year after they were imposed to check food inflation in the domestic market fuelled by local shortages in a poor monsoon year. These restrictions have been removed. This had led to a decline in exports during 2023-24.

    Rice exports increased by 13.21 per cent to $1.19 billion in February this year from $1.05 billion in February last year, the latest figures show.

    Meanwhile, India’s tea exports touched a 10-year high at 255 million kg in 2024 despite the uncertainties in the global market triggered by geopolitical tensions, data compiled by the Tea Board of India shows.

    India’s agricultural exports record double-digit surge as farm sector bounces backIANS

    The country’s exports shot up by a robust 10 per cent during the year from the corresponding figure of 231.69 million kgs recorded in 2023, according to the figures.

    The average price of Indian tea in the export market also went up by 10 per cent, bringing welcome relief to the tea industry which had been hit by inclement weather in 2023.

    There was a sharp increase in shipments to Iraq, accounting for 20 per cent of tea exports, and merchants are expecting to send 40-50 million kg to the West Asian country this fiscal, he said.

    Indian exporters, who entered several markets of West Asia when the Sri Lankan crop was low, managed to retain the shipment volumes there, he said.

    India exports tea to more than 25 countries with UAE, Iraq, Iran, Russia, the US and the UK as the major markets.

    India is among the top five tea exporters in the world accounting for about 10 per cent of total world exports. India’s Assam, Darjeeling, and Nilgiri tea are considered one of the finest in the world. Most of the tea exported out of India is black tea which makes up about 96 per cent of total exports. The other varieties include regular tea, green tea, herbal tea, masala tea and lemon tea.

    (With inputs from IANS)

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  • Mahashivratri: The Divine Night Livestream on JioHotstar Attracts Over 3.9 Crore Views, Reinforcing the Future of Digital-First Cultural Experiences

    Mahashivratri: The Divine Night Livestream on JioHotstar Attracts Over 3.9 Crore Views, Reinforcing the Future of Digital-First Cultural Experiences

    The 15-hour live stream of Mahashivratri: The Divine Night attracted 3.9 crore views and clocked 21.8 crore minutes of watch time.

    mahashivratri 2025, kumbh mela, jiohtstar,

    March 3rd 2025; National: JioHotstar has reimagined the way India experiences tradition with Mahashivratri: The Divine Night, a groundbreaking 15-hour live stream that seamlessly integrated faith, spirituality, culture and technology at an unprecedented scale. With over 3.9 crore views and an astounding 21.8 crore minutes of watch time from the livestream, the digital journey heralded a landmark moment in the evolution of cultural storytelling. At its core was the deepest shared human emotion, devotion – which united millions in a collective celebration of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati, reinforcing JioHotstar’s role in elevating shared cultural moments through live experiences.

    Streaming the Sacred: A Multi-Dimensional Experience
    Bringing together the timeless and the cutting-edge, JioHotstar’s multi-stream format offered a seamless experience, immersing audiences in devotion like never before. Multiple LIVE feeds from the sacred Jyotirlingas transported audiences into the heart of 20+ divine aartis and grand processions while night-time meditations and stirring cultural tributes elevated the spectacle.

    Mahashivratri livestream

    More than just a stream, the live event on the platform constituted 10+ live, concurrent streams allowing users to effortlessly switch between different facets of devotion, spirituality, mythology, culture, rituals, and community engagement:

    • Sacred Rituals: 20+ Live aartis from revered Jyotirlingas allowed devotees to partake in sacred moments of worship from the comfort of their homes. 
    • Spirituality: Dedicated live feeds from the Isha Yoga Centre in Coimbatore and Art of Living International Centre were available as part of the Mahashivratri Livestream on JioHotstar.  Sadhguru delivered spiritual discourses in the presence of Mr Amit Shah, Honorable Minister for Home Affairs of India. Transformational meditations by Sri Sri Ravi Shankar lent a personal and intimate touch to the night-long festivities 
    • Musical Dedications: Soul-stirring performances by singer/composer Sona Mohapatra and rapper Narci resonated deeply with audiences, infusing the night with reverence and artistic expression. Cultural performances from events hosted by Isha Foundation and Art of Living Centre also added to the immersive nature of the night. 
    • Mythology: An exclusive three-hour curated stream of Devo Ke Dev…Mahadev brought to life the divine union of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati, underscoring the storytelling legacy of the platform.
    • Personal Devotion: Heartfelt stories of faith from Shiv Bhakts fostered an emotional connection, reiterating the universality of devotion. 

    Mahashivratri Digital Viewers

    Interactivity: From Passive Viewing to Active Participation
    Beyond the viewing experience, Mahashivratri: The Divine Night became a participatory cultural moment. Multi-feed switching allowed users to curate their own journey through devotion, choosing between live temple feeds, spiritual discourses, or musical performances. Real-time chants, virtual offerings, trivia, and live chats deepened engagement, while the Ask the Experts segment enabled users to have their Mahashivratri-related queries answered, making the experience more inclusive and interactive.

    Elaborating on the success, Sanjog Gupta, CEO-Sports at JioStar said “JioHotstar is redefining the paradigm of live-streaming by universalising access and scaling up shared moments of togetherness. The livestream of Mahashivratri: The Divine Night proved that technology can elevate our collective and deeply personal experience of faith by making it more immersive. We feel blessed that we could elevate this sacred occasion for millions and believe this is just the beginning. As we push the boundaries of live experiences across faith, culture, sports and entertainment, JioHotstar remains committed to ensuring audiences don’t just watch, but truly live moments of shared emotions.” 

    Infinite Possibilities for Brands in Live Experiences
    Brand partners like JK Super Cement, Country Delight, Nirma Advanced Detergent, and Hamilton Sciences (Brand: Denver) leveraged JioHotstar’s context-driven ad formats and immersive sponsorship integrations, demonstrating the potential of live-streamed cultural events as high-engagement, high-impact platforms for storytelling and brand connect.

    With Mahashivratri: The Divine Night, JioHotstar has unlocked a new dimension in live cultural entertainment, proving that when tradition meets technology, infinite possibilities emerge.

    ***

    About JioHotstar
    JioHotstar is one of India’s leading streaming platforms, formed through the coming together of JioCinema and Disney+ Hotstar. With an unparalleled content catalog, innovative technology, and a commitment to accessibility, JioHotstar aims to redefine entertainment for everyone across India.

  • Highlights from the Embassy’s Cultural Day in New Delhi

    NEW DELHI: The UAE Embassy in New Delhi, India, in collaboration with the UAE Ministry of Culture and the Dubai Cultural Authority, organized a UAE Cultural Day celebration, which was attended by senior government officials, diplomats, business leaders, media representatives, and members of various cultural organizations.

    Held as part of the UAE’s 53rd Eid Al Etihad celebrations, which saw the participation of the Indian Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Skill Development and Entrepreneurship and Minister of State for Education, Jayant Chaudhary, as the Chief Guest; the UAE Cultural Day featured a variety of cultural, heritage, and entertainment activities that showcased Emirati traditions and customs.

    The event included a dedicated corner for Emirati craftswomen, who showcased traditional crafts such as Al-Talli and Al-Sadu. A traditional food station offered guests an array of Emirati dishes, including luqaimat, raqaq bread, harees, and traditional Arabic coffee, and a henna design corner was set up for attendees to experience this traditional cultural art.

    UAE Cultural Day saw enthusiastic participation from guests, who commended the festive atmosphere and acknowledged the UAE’s remarkable journey of achievements and progress under the wise leadership of His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, UAE President.

    As well as celebrating the UAE’s history and culture, the event highlighted the country’s strong ties with India, which span cooperation across the cultural, social, economic, and diplomatic fields.

    Over the past year, the UAE-India relationship has strengthened, with bilateral trade between the two countries increasing to nearly USD 84 billion, with the UAE reinforcing its position as India’s second-largest export market, third-largest trading partner, and fourth-largest investor. Major milestones, such as the opening of the BAPS Hindu Mandir and the establishment of the Indian Institute of Technology Delhi campus in Abu Dhabi underline the strength of cultural ties and people-to-people connections between the UAE and India.

  • The Gaming Industry’s Projected Growth by 2028 and Its Impact on Economic and Cultural Development

    India’s online gaming industry is estimated to double to INR 66,000 crore by 2028, with the potential to create an additional 2 to 3 lakh jobs in the next few years

    Industry leaders advocate for clear regulations to promote responsible gaming and encourage innovation amid regulatory challenges

    Real-money gaming to grow at a reduced CAGR of 10% between 2024-28 due to GST impact

    The report identifies nine key challenges for the Indian gaming industry and offers strategies to address them

    NEW DELHI: PwC India launched a report titled “From Sunrise to Sunshine: The Contribution of Online Gaming to the Viksit Bharat Journey and India’s Cultural Power” at the Indian Gaming Convention in New Delhi.

    The report shares insights into the evolving global as well as Indian gaming market. It also discusses how gaming is helping India drive the Viksit Bharat journey and elaborates on the various challenges being encountered by gaming companies. The report recommends a set of actions to be executed collectively by gaming companies, gamers, platform providers, governments, and other stakeholders to build a vibrant and responsible gaming ecosystem. 

    Manpreet Singh Ahuja, TMT Sector Leader and Chief Digital Officer of PwC India commented, “The influx of capital is creating a significant economic impact on the gaming sector, driving growth and opening up new opportunities across multiple industries. India, with its skilled talent pool and large domestic market, is at a pivotal moment to solidify its position as a global gaming powerhouse. By focusing on skills development, and infrastructure, and fostering innovation and entrepreneurship, we can unlock the full potential of this industry. It’s essential to nurture a vibrant gaming ecosystem, promote e-sports at the grassroots level, and attract foreign investment. Building responsible gaming practices and robust player protection policies will be crucial to maintaining trust and ensuring the industry’s sustainable growth.”

    The Indian gaming landscape, despite facing several challenges, is experiencing a period of steady growth, with the potential to evolve into a dominant force in the global arena. It is fuelled by a potent combination of factors, including a burgeoning young population with high digital fluency, widespread access to affordable mobile data, and a thriving startup ecosystem.

    While the global gaming revenues grew from USD 219 billion in 2019 to USD 342 billion in 2023, and are estimated to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 8% to USD 503 billion by the end of 2028, the total size of the Indian online gaming market was INR 33,000 crore in 2023, estimated to reach INR 66,000 crore, growing at a CAGR of 14.5% between 2023–2028. The realization of this potential value will be heavily dependent on seizing the opportunities while addressing the challenges highlighted in the report.

    As per the report, the real money gaming (RMG) market – the largest sub-component of India’s online gaming market – is predicted to reach INR 26,500 crore by 2028. The gaming industry’s growth is also having a transformative impact on the Indian economy, generating an additional 2–3 lakh direct and indirect jobs in the next few years. Global investors see value in this sector and have invested a staggering USD 2.8 billion in investment over the past five years. The growth primarily hinges on the resolution of the taxation issues and regulatory clarity.

    The report identifies nine key challenges for the Indian gaming industry and offers strategies to address them. These include regulatory fragmentation, building sustainable business models due to the high GST impact, navigating ethical issues in monetization, and addressing the talent gap. Other challenges are balancing stakeholder interests, managing player engagement and mental health, creating culturally relevant games with global appeal, changing societal perceptions of gaming careers, and tackling illegal gambling and ads. Mitigating these challenges is crucial for the industry’s sustainable growth.

    To fully harness the immense potential of the Indian gaming industry, PwC recommends enacting a robust, national-level regulatory framework for online gaming. This framework should be accompanied by the formation of an interdepartmental committee to address concerns. The report also envisaged the need for a clarification on GST demands for the period between 2017-2023 to ensure a steady flow of investments and promote ease of doing business in the sector.

  • Maharashtra Cultural Centre Launches ‘Stage Is All Yours’

    Maharashtra Cultural Centre Launches ‘Stage Is All Yours’ Empowering the Next Generation of Experimental Theatre

    PUNE: Every artist dreams of showcasing their talent on a professional stage with all the necessary facilities, ensuring a rich experience for both the performer and the audience. However, experimental artists often face financial constraints, making it difficult to achieve this regularly. To address this challenge, Maharashtra Cultural Centre, in collaboration with Shriram Lagoo Rang Avakash, has introduced ‘Stage Is All Yours,’ a special initiative that will provide experimental artists with access to the Shriram Lagoo Rang Avakash at minimal charges. This initiative was announced by Maharashtra Cultural Center’s Secretary- Rajesh Deshmukh.

    Sharing more details about the initiative, Deshmukh said, “Many artistic groups from Pune and beyond aim to perform in professional spaces. Their requirements vary depending on the type of art form, whether it’s a musical performance, dance, recitation, or visual arts. Financial limitations often pose a hurdle. With ‘Stage Is All Yours,’ we aim to support and encourage experimental artists by offering them an affordable platform at Shriram Lagoo Rang Avakash, located at Tilak Road’s Hirabaug Chowk.”

    The initiative has already received a positive response from experimental artists. A few performances are scheduled to take place in the coming month including the Kathak Institute, Nadarup, which will present ‘Choreography Kaleidoscope’ on October 21.

    Alongside ‘Stage Is All Yours,’ Maharashtra Cultural Centre is also launching a literature-focused initiative called ‘Rasarth,’ which will feature discussions on literature, recitations, and artist interactions. It will be held on the third Friday of every month at Shriram Lagoo Rang Avakash and open to the public free of charge, with entry on a first-come, first-served basis.

  • Goethe-Institut Max Mueller Bhavan and SPPU Forge New Path in Teacher Training and Cultural Exchange


    Goethe-Institut Max Mueller Bhavan, Pune and SPPU sign MoU

    PUNE: Goethe -Institut Max Mueller Bhavan, Pune, and the Department of Foreign Languages (German Language) of Savitribai Phule Pune University (SPPU)signed a Memorandum of Understanding for teachers’ training, arts, culture and literature. The MoU was signed by Markus Biechele, Director Goethe-Institut Pune, Alicia Padros, Deputy director and head of language department Goethe-Institut Pune, Prof. Dr. Swati Acharya, Head, of the Department of Foreign Languages, Savitribai Phule Pune University and Prof. Jyoti Bhakre, Registrar Savitribai Phule Pune University.

    The MoU will include taking forward the collaboration for the teachers training program (DLL -Deutsch Lehren Lernen or ‘learning how to teach German’) conducted by Goethe-Institute and will benefit those studying MA German at SPPU’s foreign languages department and aspiring to become German language teachers.

    The MoU also extends to various activities related to arts, culture, and literature. The German section of the SPPU foreign languages department will participate in various activities by Goethe-Institut and will also help reach a wider audience.

    Markus Biechele, Director of Goethe-Institut Pune said that Pune has a rich legacy of German language learning and presents a lot of career opportunities for students and in turn boosts Indo-German friendship and collaboration. We are extremely happy to partner with SPPU, this marks a significant moment for us.

    Dr. Swati Acharya, Head, of the Department of Foreign Languages, Savitribai Phule Pune University said that the pilot program of DLL was started in 2021 and more than 100 students have benefited so far. This MoU is a logical next step in the long cooperation and very fruitful work that both institutions have been doing together is an extension of ongoing collaboration between the two and paves the path for a sustainable partnership and cooperation. We already have courses in didactics for our MA students. We will officially incorporate many aspects and components of ‘DLL’ in the MA program which is conducted for four semesters.  Apart from this selected number of students will be offered scholarships by Goethe Institute, Pune for select courses.

    Alicia Padros, Deputy director and head of language department Goethe-Institut Pune said that there is a growing demand for German teachers in Maharashtra. Also growing number of students who decide to study German want to become teachers. So, this is the right time to consolidate the program and formalize the collaboration. It is here in Pune where German as a foreign language began 110 years ago. It was the first place where German was taught. At Goethe- Institut we always look for partners and collaborate with those who want to learn German as a foreign language. All our activities are based on partnerships and mutuality.

    Markus Biechele, Director of Goethe-Institut Pune added “As the globally active cultural institution of the Federal Republic of Germany, we advocate for understanding between Germany, Europe, and the world.  151 Goethe-Institutes in 98 countries (in India: 6 institutes) together with numerous partner institutions form the basis of our global network. With a wide range of educational and information programs, we support in particular students and skilled workers from abroad on their route to Germany.”

  • Dwarika’s Hotel brings Nepal’s largest cultural festival, Indra Jatra

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    September 16th, 2024: Dwarika’s Hotel is proudly hosting the celebrations of Indra Jatra, Nepal’s largest and most vibrant cultural festival, paying homage to Lord Indra – the Hindu god of rain and marking the end of the monsoon season. This annual eight-day festival, which began on September 10 is culminating on September 17, showcases enthralling cultural performances, traditional rituals and a deep sense of community spirit that can be observed in the streets of historic Kathmandu.

    A key highlight of Indra Jatra is the pulling of a wooden chariot carrying the Living Goddess Kumari, who represents Goddess Taleju, through the crowded streets, as masked dancers move rhythmically to the hypnotic beats of drums. Hundreds of devotees participate in this grand procession, embodying the essence of devotion and Nepal’s rich heritage.
    In celebration of this sacred festival, Dwarika’s Hotel in Kathmandu and Dwarika’s Resort in Dhulikhel are recreating the captivating atmosphere of Indra Jatra on September 17 offering guests an immersive experience of Nepal’s rich cultural traditions. Upon arrival, guests will be greeted with a warm welcome and offered Aila, an iconic Newari drink symbolizing good fortune.

    The evening will commence with the Kumari Puja, honouring the Living Goddess and invoking her blessings for the celebrations. Throughout the night guests will be treated to an enchanting series of cultural performances that showcases Nepal’s heritage, including the Bhairav Dance, Devi Dance and Aarati Dance. Each performance tells a story of Nepalese deities and traditions passed down through generations, infusing the atmosphere with vitality and joy.

    A key spectacle of the event is the mesmerizing Lakhey Dance where the mythical Lakhey and Jhyalincha will engage in a thrilling face-off. With elaborate costumes and intricate movements, this performance will bring to life the age-old narratives that echo through Nepal’s history. Guests are also invited to actively participate in the festival by joining the chariot-pulling ceremony, allowing them to feel the reverence and collective energy that defines Indra Jatra.

    Complementing the cultural experience is an extraordinary culinary journey, with a lavish buffet of Newari delicacies crafted to honour traditional flavours. The grand centerpiece, Samaybaji, celebrates the rich Newari cuisine, while live barbeques and a free flow of traditional Newari drinks will add an authentic touch to the feast.

    Early evening at Dwarika's Hotel in Kathmandu, Nepal.
    Early evening at Dwarika’s Hotel in Kathmandu, Nepal.

    More about The Dwarika’s:

    The Dwarika’s Group of Hotels and Resorts is a collection of two distinctive hospitality concepts, The Dwarika’s Hotel in Kathmandu, popularly known as the ‘living museum’, and one-of-a-kind holistic well-being sanctuary The Dwarika’s Resort in Dhulikel.

    Deeply committed to the principles of conservation and preservation, all intent and of the brand and its properties are directed towards the restoration and revival of Nepal’s architectural, social, cultural, and natural heritage. This ethos is woven into all aspects of the guest experience as well as the brand’s cuisine and well-being offerings. Integral to The Dwarika’s Group, the Pancha Kosha Himalayan Spa draws from Ayurveda, Buddhist medicine, and ancient healing rituals, where thoughtfully curated treatments offer a deeply transformative and holistic journey.

    Born from Dwarika Das Shrestha’s vision to preserve Kathmandu Valley’s heritage, The Dwarika’s Hotel in Kathmandu city is a sanctuary for architectural grandeur and Newari civilization. Intricately carved wooden artifacts and structures, all originals with many dating back to a period of profound artistic creation, form the soul of the hotel and lends it the popular tag of ‘The Living Museum’. 80 well-appointed rooms and suites aesthetically merge traditional Nepali motifs and contemporary luxuries. Celebrating Nepalese cuisine is the property’s signature slow-dining restaurant, The Krishnarpan, while the Mako’s Japanese restaurant follows the vision of the Japanese chef Mako-San. The hotel also houses a bar and a multi-cuisine restaurant as well as all modern facilities along with the healing Pancha Kosha Himalayan Spa. An oasis amidst the city’s bustle, The Dwarika’s Hotel is situated just a stone’s throw away from the famous Pashupatinath Temple.

    Inspired by Vedic and Buddhist medicine, the brand’s holistic well-being offering, the exclusive Dwarika’s Resort is in the Dhulikel hills, a 45-minute drive from the Kathmandu Airport. Blending the wisdom and lifestyle of the Himalayan region with exquisite luxuries, the resort is dedicated to harmonizing the body, mind, and spirit, offering a transformative journey of self-discovery. Spread across 22 acres with panoramic views of the Himalayas, the resort’s key experiences include the Himalayan Rock Salt House, Himalayan Rock Crystal Chamber, meditation maze, Chakra Sound chamber, singing bowl therapy, yoga, pranayama, meditation, along with rejuvenating traditional Himalayan body treatments. Guests can also enjoy artistic pursuits like cooking, pottery, and painting and outdoor activities like cycling and hiking as well as the resort’s immersive dining experiences.


    Mansi Praharaj

  • Indian School of Hospitality (ISH)’s Rel-ISH-ED Culinary and Cultural Forum Inspires Future Culinary Leaders

    Gurugram, September 03rd, 2024: The Indian School of Hospitality (ISH)’s unique Culinary and Cultural forum, Rel-ISH-ED, offered a remarkable platform for chefs to ideate, innovate, and encourage the next generation of culinary students.

    This first-of-its-kind immersive culinary experience commenced on August 1, 2024, and spanned two weeks at the ISH École Ducasse campus in Gurgaon.

    Rel-ISH-ED aimed to bring together a diverse array of chefs and culinary experts from across the industry to inspire future culinary maestros at ISH. As a school of reference, ISH is dedicated to leading, inspiring, and passing the baton to those destined to shape the future.

    “The resounding success of Rel-ISH-ED highlights our commitment to fostering the next generation of culinary leaders by empowering them with unparalleled opportunities to learn from the best in the industry. We are delighted to host highly talented chefs and experts from diverse backgrounds to promote creativity, collaboration, and a deep appreciation for the culinary arts,” said Dr (Chef) Zubin D’souza Dean – Culinary Studies, Indian School of Hospitality

    With forums such as Rel-ISH-ED, the institution endeavours to share invaluable wisdom and support gained through years of experience with its young students.

    The impressive lineup of culinary experts at the forum included Chef Johnson Ebenezer of Farmlore, Chef Prateek Bhaktiani of Ether Chocolate, Chef Makhwana who heads Culinary at DLF and Padmashri Dr. Pushpesh Pant, the renowned food historian. Also present were Chef Anuraag Narsingani from JW Marriott and Jesudas, the founder of Urukk Blades which is the only manufacturer of hand-forged Japanese knives in India, along with young and talented chefs who took the Japanese classes at ISH.


    Mansi Praharaj

  • Mallhar Dance Academy Celebrated 15 Years of Cultural Excellence with a Grand Annual Program

    Kolkata, 18th August 2024: A one-of-a-kind dance academy, Mallhar Dance Academy proudly hosted its 15th Annual Cultural Program at the EZCC Auditorium in Saltlake. The event brought together a gathering of esteemed dignitaries, including Brahmachari Mural Bhai, General Secretary Cum Trustee of Dakshineswar Ramkrishna Sangha Adyapeath; Debashis Sen, Former IAS, CMD HIDCO & Founder Director & CEO of New Bengal Consulting; Kanchana Moitra, Renowned Actress; Lajbanti Roy, Renowned Singer; Anjan Bose, Managing Director, Aurora Film Corporation; Dr. Manoj Khanna, Renowned Hair Transplant Specialist; Ratan Jhawar, Entrepreneur and Sreetama Barik, Founder and Dance Teacher, Mallhar Dance Academy.

    Dr. Manoj Khanna, Renowned Hair Transplant Specialist; Anjan Bose, Managing Director, Aurora Film Corporation; Ratan Jhawar, Entrepreneur; Lajbanti Roy, Renowned Singer; Kanchana Moitra, Renowned Actress
    Dr. Manoj Khanna, Renowned Hair Transplant Specialist; Anjan Bose, Managing Director, Aurora Film Corporation; Ratan Jhawar, Entrepreneur; Lajbanti Roy, Renowned Singer; Kanchana Moitra, Renowned Actress

    The evening was a vibrant celebration of dance and culture, featuring performances that ranged from the classical to the contemporary. Highlights of the evening included “Sangachhadwam,” “Vande Mataram,” and “Naboshakti,” as well as unique segments like “Story of Dev Anand,” “Juto Abishkar,” and “Gram Bangla.” The prestigious Kurnish Awards honoured individuals for their outstanding contributions to the arts. Padma Shri, Purna Das Baul, the revered Baul Samrat, received a special award in recognition of his illustrious career. Additionally, Saanjhbaati, an initiative by Bidhannagar Police for elderly citizens, was part of the event, offering them a chance to come together, meet, and enjoy a sense of community and harmony. Since many children today do not have the opportunity to meet or stay with their grandparents, and vice-versa this initiative provides a platform for them to interact, engage, and experience a sense of connection. Founded in 2010 under the guidance of Guru Sreetama Barik, Mallhar Dance Academy began with just ten children. Over the years, the academy has expanded to include children and adults from diverse backgrounds, all united by their shared passion for dance. The academy also offers dance classes for homemakers, providing them with an opportunity to break free from daily routines and enjoy recreational activities.

    Sreetama Barik, Founder & Dance Teacher, Mallhar Dance Academy, expressed her gratitude, stating, “Our 15th Annual Cultural Program showcased the steadfast commitment to preserving and advancing our rich cultural heritage. The presence of such esteemed guests and the heartfelt performances by our students truly highlighted the significance of this milestone. I am deeply grateful for the continued support from the community over the years.”

  • A Cultural Afternoon at Aguad Port & Jail Complex


    Aguad Port & Jail Complex ,GOA

    GOA: Located in Candolim, Aguad Port & Jail Complex has experienced a spectacular metamorphosis into a vibrant historical and cultural center, emerging as a clear venue winner to spend a day at, especially during the monsoons.

    The premises play host to an array of art and culture exhibits, some housed within erstwhile jail cells, that comprehensively capture Goa’s history. Reached through a distinctive shoreline and pier, (weather permitting) Aguad is a fusion of modern and historical elements, such as a state-of-the-art digital museum, the Aguad Interactive Museum (AIM) that comprehensively captures stories of Goa – the land and the people. There are also three curated exhibitions on display at Aguad – ‘Indian Fashion, Timeless Elegance’ – which celebrates intricate craftsmanship, ‘Sahita Chitravali’, where the worlds of literature and art blend, and ‘Kamal’ – which connects visitors with India’s culturally versatile flower, the lotus.

    In what was once the Kaal Kothari of the jail complex now stands a plush documentary screening theatre, the immersive Aguad Cinema, that runs films on the forts of Goa and the freedom struggle daily. For those interested in a deep dive into history, there are heritage walks conducted daily (weather permitting) through the complex.

    There is no shortage of events either, at this versatile venue. From jazz festivals and fetes to art exhibitions and fashion shows, the picturesque setting of the iconic Port & Jail Complex has been abuzz with a plethora of events, especially in the months leading up to Christmas. Locals and tourists alike get a novel experience each time they visit Aguad. There are also varied workshops, from learning Warli and rock art to self-development ones, that are hosted at Aguad during the monsoons.

    Over and above the museum and exhibits, Aguad has several dining options to choose from, from coffee shops to bistros. All in all, the venue serves as a one-stop shop for all creative expressions, with their gates open daily from 10:00 AM up to 8:00 PM, allowing you to spend the better part of your day there while giving you a cultural experience unlike any other.