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Lollapalooza India 2026 kicks off in Mumbai with power-packed performances

Lollapalooza India 2026 roared to life at Mahalaxmi Racecourse today as Day 1 unfolded into a bold celebration of sound, community and culture, drawing tens of thousands of fans into a world where genres blurred and the energy never dipped. Hip-hop maverick Playboi Carti led the charge with his first major India appearance, joined by the Opium collective Destroy Lonely and Homixide Gang. Their set tore through ‘FE!N!’, ‘Pop Out’ ‘Timeless’ and the explosive ‘If Looks Could Kill’ as the crowd turned the main stage into a moving sea. British disruptor YUNGBLUD followed with a fearless performance built on ‘Zombie’ and ‘Hello Heaven’, while Japanese star Fujii Kaze delivered a poignant, piano-driven moment with ‘Shinunoga E-Wa’,  that became one of the day’s emotional peaks. Electronic powerhouse Knock2 unleashed festival edits of ‘Dashstar’, synth favourites The Midnight wrapped the evening in neon nostalgia with ‘Sunset’ and ‘Los Angeles’ and Canadian icons Mother Mother sparked mass singalongs to ‘Hayloft’. UK acts Hamdi and Hot Milk added punch with ‘Push’ and ‘Breathing underwater’ respectively. Indian artists owned the stages with Ankur Tewari & The Ghalat Family performing ‘Gehraiyaan’, MU540 firing up the dance arena with ‘USD, e USD’ and Gauley Bhai winning hearts with ‘Sanglanga Dooby’. Sets from Zoya, Pho, Still in Therapy, Nate08, Rounak Maiti, Sijya and Sunflower Tape Machine kept discovery at the centre of the experience. The Lolla Food Park steals the show, featuring over 70 food brands across stalls, carts and trucks. Fans flocked to specially curated Lolla India Dishes including Bheja Roll by Bademiya, Strawberries and Cream by Bachelors, Lolla Lava Noodles by Bang Bang Noodles and Pushpa Pizza by Bad Boy Pizza, turning meal breaks into headline moments of their own. The festival, co-produced and promtoed by BookMyShow Live for the festival’s Indian edition along with global producers, Perry Farrell and C3 Presents also showcased a design marvel. From the towering Lollapalooza Inflatable and Perry Farrell’s iconic Shaman to the kinetic Lolla Garden and Lolla Buddies photo stops, the venue transformed into an art playground. The Alternative Stage stood out as a creative landmark. The merchandise zone buzzed all day with fans picking up lineup tees, raglan fits, hoodies, jerseys, bucket hats and picnic mats inspired by the collection theme of aliens, freaks and dreamers. Sustainability and inclusivity shaped the day with waste management, EV vehicles for internal movement, PWD viewing decks, trained accessibility teams and Tag Your Kid safety support. Metro, train and Cityflo connectivity kept travel seamless. As night fell, the city carried one conversation, if this was the opening chapter, Day 2 would be historic with Linkin Park’s debut performance in Mumbai setting the bar.

25 January,2026 01:10 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondent
Image for representational purpose only. Photo Courtesy: File pic

Female representation in STEM highest in India, workforce participation lags

Even though India has outpaced many developed countries in terms of gender equality in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) education, the lesser participation of women in the workforce remains a concern, according to a report.  The report by EY India highlighted progressive policies and industry interventions that led to the advancement of women in STEM fields. However, it also highlighted systemic challenges that continue to affect higher numbers in the workforce, especially in leadership positions. It called for multifaceted efforts to bridge the gender gap. Citing education as the cornerstone for women’s rise in STEM education, the report mentioned the vital role of government initiatives such as Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao, Vigyan Jyoti, and the Pragati Scholarship in increasing female enrollment in STEM education. “India’s National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 has further emphasised skill-based learning and inclusivity, laying the groundwork for a more diverse and competitive workforce. Several corporates have also supported female enrollment in STEM courses through earmarked scholarships under their CSR programmes to encourage more women to pursue STEM courses,” Aashish Kasad, Partner and India Region Diversity and Inclusiveness Business Sponsor, EY India. “As a result, India now exceeds global averages in female STEM graduates. However, there remains a stark gap between education and employment, with many women not transitioning into STEM careers,” she added. Kasad attributed the STEM gap to “unconscious bias and workplace culture, where women in STEM face unequal pay and limited leadership opportunities; work-life balance pressures, lack of mentorship and networking, and restricted access to crucial career progression support”. The report cited the 2024 LinkedIn dataset, where women represented 41.2 per cent of the overall workforce, with sectors such as retail/e-commerce, healthcare, pharma, and IT, leading the way in hiring STEM-qualified women. It pointed to a positive momentum toward bridging gender disparities in these industries. The report noted that many corporate-led initiatives are now providing resources offering career support and mentorship programmes, helping women navigate challenges in STEM careers and achieve professional goals. “Addressing gender diversity in STEM can unlock immense potential for innovation and economic growth for the country,” said Kasad. She added that fostering an inclusive environment, encouraging mentorship, and challenging societal stereotypes can be crucial to boost the share of women in STEM careers in India. Kasad called for “continued efforts in policymaking, corporate leadership, and societal transformation” to help shape the future of STEM careers for women. This story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed, agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, reliability and data of the text. Mid-day management/mid-day.com reserves the sole right to alter, delete or remove (without notice) the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever.

25 January,2026 07:53 AM IST | New Delhi | IANS
The legendary American rock band made their India debut with an electrifying debut in Bengaluru that saw die-hard fans witness them for the very first time in the country. Here are some glimpses. File Pic

Linkin Park sets Bengaluru ablaze ahead of Lollapalooza India 2026

Bengaluru witnessed a historic high point for rock music in India as Linkin Park finally set foot in the country for their first-ever visit, delivering a standalone performance that fans had waited years to experience. For India’s rock community, the night marked more than a concert, it was a cultural milestone. Composed of Mike Shinoda, Dave “Phoenix” Farrell, Joe Hahn, Emily Armstrong and Colin Brittain, the band commanded the stage with a powerhouse set from the From Zero World Tour, turning the city into the epicentre of global rock for the evening. The show was produced and promoted by BookMyShow Live. The evening opened with a commanding set by homegrown metal powerhouse Bloodywood, whose fusion of heavy metal and Indian folk elements immediately ignited the crowd. Powering through tracks like ‘Bekauf’, ‘Danadan’, ‘Halla Bol’ the band’s raw intensity and unapologetic sound set a ferocious pace for the night. Their performance drew a tremendous response from the audience, firmly establishing the energy that would carry through Linkin Park’s arrival. From the moment Linkin Park stepped onto the stage, the atmosphere in Bengaluru shifted with palpable anticipation. Opening with commanding momentum, the band quickly asserted their presence, transforming the venue into a wave of movement and shared emotion. Their sound - sharp, controlled and powerful carried the authority of a group that has shaped the global rock landscape for over two decades. Every transition felt fluid, every crescendo met with a resounding response, as the city surrendered itself to the experience. True to their globally celebrated live reputation, Linkin Park delivered a performance rooted in intensity and connection. The band moved effortlessly between driving sections and reflective moments, holding the audience in constant engagement. Fans sang in unison, fists raised, voices rising above the music as thousands moved together, bound by collective memory and songs that have endured across generations. The setlist bridged past and present, blending new material from From Zero with the anthems that define Linkin Park’s legacy. New tracks such as ‘The Emptiness Machine’ and ‘Heavy Is the Crown’ sat seamlessly alongside iconic favourites like ‘In The End’ and ‘Numb’. The performance reaffirmed the band’s rare ability to evolve while remaining unmistakably true to their sound. Bengaluru erupted with energy as Mike Shinoda exclaimed, “We’ve waited so long to come to India,  Lollapalooza India now has a lot to live up to because Bengaluru, you raised the bar to new heights.”  Reflecting on the significance of the night, Naman Pugalia, chief Business Officer - Live Events, with the online ticket platform, said, “Linkin Park’s music has shaped generations of listeners globally and in India and seeing that legacy translate so powerfully on an Indian stage was truly special. The connection between the band and the audience - every lyric, every moment, reaffirmed their cultural relevance. For us, experiences like these underline India’s growing position as a key market for the world’s most influential touring artists.” As the final chords faded and the arena rose in a thunderous, unbroken ovation, it was undeniable that Bengaluru had just lived through a historic moment. Linkin Park’s standalone performance became more than a show, it marked the beginning of a long-awaited relationship with Indian audiences. With the city still humming from the night’s energy, the band now sets its sights on Mumbai, where they will headline Lollapalooza India 2026, taking their first-ever India visit to an even bigger, festival-defining stage.

24 January,2026 04:52 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondent
Calum Scott. File Pic

Calum Scott mesmerises Delhi ahead of Lollapalooza India 2026

Delhi was treated to a deeply moving musical evening as multi-platinum singer-songwriter Calum Scott returned to India, bringing his global The Avenoir Tour to the Road to Lolla stage.  From the moment he stepped into the spotlight, the atmosphere shifted into something profoundly intimate, with Scott’s unmistakable voice creating a space of shared stillness, emotion and connection. Each lyric landed with quiet power, turning the performance into a heartfelt exchange between artist and audience.  Crowd favourites such as You Are The Reason, Dancing On My Own, Biblical and Heaven were met with rapt attention, while newer material added fresh depth to the set, all carried by Scott’s sincerity and emotive storytelling.  Wrapped in the glow of a memorable night, Delhi witnessed a performance that was honest, immersive and deeply resonant as Calum Scott now continues his India journey, preparing to take the stage next at Lollapalooza India 2026 in Mumbai.

24 January,2026 04:41 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondent
Dutch EDM icon Tiesto during a fan meet-and-greet in India ahead of his three-city tour covering Mumbai, Delhi and Kolkata. FIle Pic

Tiesto returns to India after 13 years for electrifying three-city EDM tour

Tiesto is a legend in electronic music and the last three decades have proved why he is one of the biggest names when you talk about Electronic Dance Music (EDM).  Popularly known to be one of the greatest DJs of all time, and even 'Godfather of EDM music", he returns to perform in India after 13 years. Speaking to mid-day amid a buzzing fan meet-and-greet, the Dutch DJ and music producer said, "It feels amazing. It's always good to be back in India." In fact, the Dutchman also let us in on a little more, and said he was here two weeks ago, which we are sure is for leisure.  With palpable excitement, Tiesto is on a three city India tour, produced and promoted by EVA Live, to perform not only in Mumbai but also Delhi, and Kolkata, where he will end his tour.  Tiesto is one among several DJs who are performing in India this year, and also among many international artists making their way to the city and country this January.  This weekend will also see Lollapalooza India 2026 take place in Mumbai at the Mahalaxmi Racecourse on January 24 and 25, ahead of Republic Day in the country.

23 January,2026 09:55 PM IST | Mumbai | Nascimento Pinto
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Indonesian handprints in Sulawesi are the oldest cave art found yet: Researchers

Handprints on cave walls in a largely unexplored area of Indonesia may be the oldest rock art studied so far, dating back to at least 67,800 years ago. The tan-coloured prints analysed by Indonesian and Australian researchers on the island of Sulawesi were made by blowing pigment over hands placed against the cave walls, leaving an outline. Some of the fingertips were also tweaked to look more pointed. This prehistoric art form suggests the Indonesian island was home to a flourishing artistic culture. To figure out how old the paintings were, researchers dated mineral crusts that had formed on top of the art. Upon seeing the new study, independent paleoanthropologist Genevieve von Petzinger said she "let out a little squeal of joy." "It fits everything I'd been thinking," she said. Indonesia is known to host some of the world's earliest cave drawings, and scientists have analysed countless examples of ancient art across the globe - including simple marks on bones and stones that go back hundreds of thousands of years. Cross-hatched markings on a piece of rock in South Africa have been dated to about 73,000 years ago. The new art from southeastern Sulawesi is the oldest to be found on cave walls. The stencils also represent a more complex tradition of rock art that could have been a shared cultural practice, study author Maxime Aubert with Griffith University, who published the study Wednesday in the journal Nature, said. Scientists are eager to understand when early humans learned to make art, moving from dots and lines to more meaningful representations of themselves and the world around them. These cave drawings help firm up a timeline for the dawn of human creativity. It's not yet clear whose hands made the prints. They could be from an ancient human group called Denisovans who lived in the area and may have interacted with our Homo sapiens ancestors before eventually going extinct. Or they may belong to modern humans venturing away from Africa, who could have wandered through the Middle East and Australia around this time. Fine details on the cave art, including the intentionally modified fingertips, point to a human hand. Other drawings discovered in the same area of the island, including a human figure, a bird and horselike animals, were found to be created much more recently, some of them about 4,000 years ago. There's likely more art to be found on nearby islands that could be even older than the handprints. Future studies may help scientists understand how these artistic traditions spread across the globe and how they're woven into the fabric of humanity's early days. "For us, this discovery is not the end of the story," Aubert said in an email. "It is an invitation to keep looking." This story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed, agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, reliability and data of the text. Mid-day management/mid-day.com reserves the sole right to alter, delete or remove (without notice) the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever

23 January,2026 12:17 PM IST | New York | AP
Lollapalooza India will take over Mumbai’s iconic Mahalaxmi Racecourse on January 24 and 25, Photo Courtesy: Special Arrangement

Lollapalooza India 2026: 6 reasons why you should look forward to the music fest

With the countdown nearly over, Lollapalooza India returns for its fourth edition, transforming Mumbai into the epicentre of music, art and culture this weekend. More than a festival, it promises a carefully curated, immersive experience that brings together global sounds and the city’s unmistakable energy.  Every element of Lollapalooza India is designed to deepen the audience’s connection with music, culture and with each other and this year is no different. The spirit of Mumbai is woven into the fabric of the festival, creating moments that feel both global and distinctly local. Alongside unforgettable performances, fans can look forward to exclusive festival merchandise to remember the stellar weekend by and an experience rooted in sustainability, inclusivity and accessibility - a place for all. Lollapalooza India 2026 stands as the place to be this weekend - a defining cultural moment that extends well beyond the last set. The fourth edition of Lollapalooza India will take over Mumbai’s iconic Mahalaxmi Racecourse on January 24 and 25, bringing with it an electrifying lineup of legendary icons, global sensations and emerging talent poised to shape the future of music. Beyond the music, here’s what keeps fans coming back year after year, and what to expect from the Lollapalooza India experience in 2026. #LollaForChange: A festival with purpose Lollapalooza India has always about creating a lasting impact. This edition continues to build a festival experience that is responsible by design and inclusive. 1. Sustainability is intentionally embedded into the festival’s planning and operations, with end-to-end waste management, on-ground waste segregation, mindful material choices2. Inclusivity is approached with the same level of intent, with thoughtfully designed measures including gender-neutral washrooms, dedicated safe spaces, robust anti-harassment protocols, trained volunteer teams and clearly marked help points throughout the festival grounds3. Accessibility has been thoughtfully integrated to ensure every fan can fully participate in the experience. This includes Persons With Disabilities (PWD) viewing risers across all stages, wheelchair-friendly pathways, dedicated assistance desks and shuttle support for guests with mobility needs4. Ease of access on travelling to Mahalaxmi Racecourse further strengthens this commitment, with seamless travel options via the Aqua Line metro, local trains and Cityflo connectivity. Together, these measures make getting to Mahalaxmi Racecourse effortless and stress-free, while also supporting reduced carbon footprints Design at Lollapalooza: Transforming the venue into an immersive art playground Art pulses through the festival grounds as Lollapalooza India 2026 becomes an immersive world brought to life through larger-than-life installations, each designed to deliver visually striking, interactive experiences that reflect the festival’s spirit. From the return of the iconic Lolla Inflatable, a festival landmark to the nostalgic Shaman Inflatable inspired by Perry Farrell’s original artwork, creativity takes centre stage. Rising proudly at the heart of the venue, the Big Top, a shaded zone, a natural meeting point and a space to recharge. Add the playful Lolla Buddies photo-op, the bold Lolla  Artboard and the kinetic Lolla Garden where spinning flowers bloom in motion and the venue transforms into an art-forward playground packed with unforgettable, picture-perfect moments. With Kaali Peeli on the Go, the festival energy spills into the city itself as a Mumbai taxi is reimagined into a moving party zone, complete with dazzling lights and live broadcasts on a giant billboard. From beats to bites: Lolla food park’s ultimate food experience The unmissable Lolla Food Park at Lollapalooza India 2026 is a festival in itself, uniting over 70 food brands across stalls, carts and food trucks to create a vibrant culinary landscape. A consistent crowd favourite, it has delighted festival-goers year after year with its diverse and delectable offerings. This edition will introduce an exciting spread of special dishes crafted exclusively for the festival. Fan favourites such as Bad Boy Pizza, Bademiya, Bachelors, Bang Bang Noodles among others will serve up flavours that match the energy of the stages. Adding to the experience are specially curated Lollapalooza India certified dishes, including the iconic Bheja Roll from Bademiya, Strawberries and Cream from Bachelors, the fiery Lolla Lava Noodles from Bang Bang Noodles and the much-loved Pushpa Pizza from Bad Boy Pizza. Between sets, Lolla Food Park becomes the ultimate gathering ground where music lovers refuel, discover new tastes and keep the vibe alive.  Bring Lollapalooza India Home: Curated, collectible festival merch Lollapalooza India 2026 carries its magic beyond the music festival grounds with an exclusive merchandise collection that captures the event’s vibrant energy. The official Lollapalooza India 2026 range is rooted in a bold design language with a hyper-visual collection that feels playful, optimistic and unmistakably Lollapalooza India. Fans will be spoiled for choice ranging from T-shirts, tank tops, hoodies, basketball and collared jerseys, alongside lifestyle essentials like picnic mats, bandanas, dad caps and bucket hats. Every piece is crafted as a wearable memory of an unforgettable weekend. An eclectic lineup that signals the future of global sound in India This year’s lineup blends rock, pop, electronic, indie and hip-hop to deliver something for every kind of music lover. Headlined by the debut performances of Linkin Park and Playboi Carti, Lollapalooza India 2026 brings together an electrifying roster that also features Yungblud, Kehlani, Knock2 and more. From edgy alt-rock and smooth R&B to bass-heavy EDM, hip-hop, dream pop and J-pop, the genre-defying experience continues with standout acts like LANY, Sammy Virji, Fujii Kaze and Calum Scott ready to light up the stages. Spanning generations and sounds, the lineup makes the festival a true destination for music discovery, celebration and unforgettable moments. Built around the fan experience, from entry to encore Every detail at Lollapalooza India 2026 is crafted with the audience in mind. From a dedicated Concierge Desk for premium ticket holders to on-ground ticket upgrade facilities at the Info Desk (subject to availability), the focus remains on ease, comfort and clarity so fans spend less time navigating logistics and more time immersed in the music. Earmarked Help Desks and on-route assistance from the Science Centre Metro station (Aqua Line) to the venue will further streamline the journey. Thoughtful initiatives like Tag Your Kid, where children under 14 attending the festival with a guardian will receive a wristband at the entry gates, displaying their name and their guardian’s contact number; and a comprehensive Lost and Found support system will help create a safe, welcoming environment for festivalgoers of all ages. Adding to this, shuttle services for attendees with mobility challenges and a wheelchair-friendly layout ensure seamless navigation across the grounds, making Lollapalooza India a truly inclusive and fan-first experience.

22 January,2026 04:58 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondent
Kitchen

Eco Friendly Kitchen Remodeling Options in Mountain View

Eco‑friendly kitchen remodeling options in Mountain View focus on saving energy, cutting waste, and using safe materials while still giving you a kitchen that works well and looks good. By choosing smart layouts, low‑energy tools, and earth‑safe materials, homeowners can lower bills and help the local environment at the same time. This makes Mountain View kitchen remodeling a smart choice for families who care about both comfort and the planet. In Mountain View, many homes are older and ready for updates. A green kitchen remodel can fix poor lighting, worn cabinets, and old tools that waste power and water. Local rules also support eco‑safe building, which helps homeowners make better choices. Working with a skilled kitchen remodeler Mountain View homeowners trust can make the process clear and smooth. Why Eco‑Friendly Remodeling Matters in Mountain View? Mountain View has a strong focus on clean living and smart energy use. Many people here care about air quality, water use, and long‑term value. A green kitchen remodel helps meet these goals. It can lower power use, cut water waste, and reduce trash from building work. Homes in this area often face high energy costs. An eco‑friendly kitchen can help lower monthly bills. Over time, the savings can be large. Also, homes with green updates often sell faster and at better prices. Energy‑Saving Appliances One of the easiest steps in a green kitchen remodel service is replacing old tools. New stoves, fridges, and dishwashers use far less power and water than older models. Look for tools with high energy ratings. They work just as well while using less power. Induction cooktops are another good choice. They heat food fast and waste less heat. This keeps the kitchen cooler and saves energy. A trusted kitchen remodeler Mountain View homeowners rely on can help pick the right models for your space and budget. Water‑Saving Fixtures Water use is a big issue in California. Eco‑friendly kitchens use less water without losing function. Low‑flow faucets and smart spray heads cut water use while still giving strong flow. Some sinks also come with built‑in filters, which reduce the need for bottled water. Dishwashers with water‑save modes can also make a big difference. Over a year, these small changes can save many gallons of water. Green Cabinet and Counter Choices Cabinets take up a lot of space in a kitchen, so the materials matter. Eco‑friendly cabinets are often made from reused wood or fast‑growing plants like bamboo. These options reduce harm to forests. Low‑VOC finishes are also key. They release fewer harmful gases into the air. This helps keep indoor air clean and safe, which is important for kids and pets. For counters, consider recycled glass, reused stone, or solid surfaces made from safe blends. These choices last long and are easy to clean. Better Lighting Options Lighting plays a big role in how a kitchen feels and how much power it uses. LED lights use far less power than old bulbs and last much longer. They also come in many colors and styles. Adding more natural light can also help. Larger windows, skylights, or light tubes can cut the need for daytime lighting. A skilled Mountain View kitchen remodeling team can help plan lighting that fits your home layout. Smart Layout and Design An eco‑friendly kitchen is not just about tools and materials. The layout matters too. A smart design reduces wasted space and makes daily tasks easier. This can mean shorter walks between the sink, stove, and fridge.Long‑Term Benefits of a Green Kitchen An eco‑friendly kitchen offers long‑term value. Lower bills, better air, and durable materials make daily life easier. These kitchens also age well, which means fewer repairs later. For families in Mountain View, green remodeling fits local values and future needs. It supports clean living while adding comfort and value to the home. Final Thoughts Eco‑friendly kitchen remodeling options in Mountain View offer many ways to improve your home while caring for the environment. From energy‑saving tools and water‑smart fixtures to safe materials and smart design, each choice adds up. With the help of a trusted kitchen remodeler Mountain View homeowners can trust, you can build a kitchen that works well today and for many years to come.

22 January,2026 11:23 AM IST | Mumbai | IANS
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Is Assam's Bagurumba dance becoming popular around the world?

The traditional Bagurumba Dwhou dance of Assam reached record-breaking popularity worldwide on Tuesday. This folk dance, known for its "butterfly-like" movements, where performers spread their arms like wings to the rhythm of drums, has seen a massive surge in international interest recently. The data reveals that "Global Search Interest on Google for the Bagurumba dance is at its highest ever in the last two decades," with 200 million views on PM Modi's social media properties alone. Bagurumba is one of the folk dances of the Bodo community, deeply inspired by nature. The dance symbolises blooming flowers and reflects harmony between human life and the natural world. Traditionally performed by young Bodo women, with men accompanying as musicians, the dance features gentle, flowing movements that imitate butterflies, birds, leaves and flowers. Performances are usually organised in groups, forming circles or lines that enhance their visual elegance. Bagurumba dance holds deep cultural significance for the Bodo people. It represents peace, fertility, joy and collective harmony, and is closely associated with festivals such as Bwisagu, the Bodo New Year, and Domasi. Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday addressed the Bagurumba Dhwou 2026 at Sarusajai Stadium in Guwahati, describing the event as a vibrant celebration of the rich traditions and cultural identity of the Bodo community. Speaking on the occasion, the Prime Minister said, "Bagurumba Dwhou is not just a festival but a medium to honour the great traditions of the Bodo society and remember its eminent personalities." He paid tributes to Bodofa Upendra Nath Brahma, Gurudev Kalicharan Brahma and other prominent figures for their contributions to social reform, cultural renaissance and political awakening. The Prime Minister noted that talented Bodo youth are now emerging as cultural ambassadors of Assam, excelling in arts, sports and other fields with renewed confidence. He added that Assam's growing confidence, strength and progress are accelerating India's overall growth story. This story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed, agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, reliability and data of the text. Mid-day management/mid-day.com reserves the sole right to alter, delete or remove (without notice) the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever

22 January,2026 11:19 AM IST | Guwahati | ANI
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233-year-old Ramayana manuscript gifted to Ayodhya's Ram Katha museum

A rare 233-year-old Sanskrit manuscript of Valmiki's Ramayana has been gifted to the Ram Katha museum in Ayodhya, the Culture Ministry said on Tuesday, January 20.. In a landmark cultural handover, Shrinivasa Varakhedi, Vice Chancellor of the Central Sanskrit University, presented the manuscript of the Valmikiramayanam (with the Tattvadipikatika) to Nripendra Misra, Chairman of the Executive Council of Prime Ministers Museum and Library, it said. The manuscript, authored by Adi Kavi Valmiki with a classical commentary (tika) by Maheshvara Tirtha, is written in Sanskrit (in Devanagari script), the ministry said in a statement. "It is a historically significant work dating to Vikrama Samvat 1849 (1792 CE) and represents a rare preserved textual tradition of the Ramayana," it said. "The collection comprises five principal kanaas of the epic -- Balakanda, Aranyakanda, Kiskindhakanda, Sundarakanda, and Yuddhakanda -- reflecting the narrative and philosophical depth of the Itihasa," the statement said. The manuscript, previously loaned to Rashtrapati Bhavan, New Delhi, has now been permanently gifted to the Antarrashtriya Ram Katha Sangrahalaya (International Ram Katha Museum), Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh, it said. This significant gesture supports the museum's development as a global centre for Ramayana heritage, ensuring wider public access and preservation, the officials said. "This gift immortalises the profound wisdom of Valmiki Ramayana, making it accessible to scholars, devotees, and visitors worldwide in the sacred city of Ayodhya," Varakhedi said. Misra said, "Donation of this rare manuscript of Valmiki Ramayana to Ram Katha Sangrahalaya at Ayodhya is a landmark moment for the devotees of Ram and the temple complex at Ayodhya." This story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed, agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, reliability and data of the text. Mid-day management/mid-day.com reserves the sole right to alter, delete or remove (without notice) the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever

22 January,2026 10:49 AM IST | New Delhi | PTI
Kilson’s original work blends the funk, fusion and swing influences of his youth. Photo Courtesy: Special Arrangement

Grammy-nominated drummer Billy Kilson to perform in Mumbai this January

Four-time Grammy-nominated drummer Billy Kilson, celebrated for his improvisational flair, impeccable timing and electrifying stage presence, will perform in Mumbai this January.  Known for his vibrant original music that blends upbeat energy with equal parts swing and groove, Kilson brings a dynamic new sound to the stage. Kilson’s musical foundation was shaped early on at Berklee College of Music, where he trained under the legendary Alan Dawson. This experience set the course for his emergence as a drummer of exceptional range and authority. His early tours with artists such as Donald Byrd, Ahmad Jamal, and Dianne Reeves quickly placed him in the company of leading jazz voices. The drummer later became a defining force in the Dave Holland Quintet, where his rhythmic instincts and mastery of complex meters helped craft the group’s signature sound, earning him Grammy recognition and widespread critical praise. His versatility led him to collaborate with artists across genres—from Chris Botti and Sting to Yo-Yo Ma—yet his strongest creative pull has always been to shape his own music. Kilson’s original work blends the funk, fusion and swing influences of his youth, marked by a rhythm-forward energy and an unmistakable groove. For his performance at the NCPA, Kilson performs with the trio featured on his newest album. Grammy-winning pianist Geoffrey Keezer and acclaimed bassist Essiet Okon Essiet. Join us and witness three world-class musicians come together for an unforgettable night of music at the NCPA. Age Recommendation: 6 years and above; Late entry not permittedWhen: January 26Time: 6:30 pm; Duration: 2 HoursTickets (Plus GST)Members: Rs 450 onwardsNon-members: Rs 500 onwards

21 January,2026 06:46 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondent
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