In a vivid celebration of art and national unity, renowned sand artist Sudarsan Pattnaik crafted an impressive sculpture at Puri Beach, honouring Rashtriya Ekta Diwas (National Unity Day). This stunning artwork was unveiled on Wednesday, commemorates the occasion, which is celebrated annually on October 31 to mark the birth anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel.The sculpture, towering at six feet, honours the legacy of "Iron Man" of India, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel on his birth anniversary, which falls on the auspicious occasion of Diwali this year.Pattnaik's creation utilized around 1,000 mud Diyas and approximately five tons of sand, conveying a heartfelt message: "Tribute to Sardar Patel." #RashtriyaEktaDiwas Tribute to the #IronManofIndia #SardarVallabhbhaiPatel on his birth anniversary. My SandArt installation using 1000 Diya for this sculpture at puri beach in Odisha. pic.twitter.com/QueEOD4qnQ — Sudarsan Pattnaik (@sudarsansand) October 31, 2024 The project was a collaborative effort with students from his renowned sand art school located at Puri Beach in Odisha."This year, Sardar Vallabh Bhai Patel's birth anniversary coincides with Diwali, so we created this sculpture using mud Diyas," Pattnaik told ANI, highlighting the significance of intertwining these two pivotal events.In addition to the grand tribute, Pattnaik crafted another sand sculpture featuring a Diya adorned with a festive "Happy Diwali" message, further elevating the celebratory atmosphere. #HappyDiwali 🪔🙏 pic.twitter.com/HUNtFPqVZ5 — Sudarsan Pattnaik (@sudarsansand) October 31, 2024 A Padma Shri awardee, Sudarsan Pattnaik has represented India in over 65 international sand sculpture competitions, winning numerous accolades. His art often addresses vital social issues, including HIV/AIDS, COVID-19, global warming, and environmental conservation.Meanwhile, during the National Unity Day celebrations in Gujarat's Kevadia, Prime Minister Narendra Modi emphasized the spirit of unity and inspiration.He remarked that the last decade has seen "unprecedented achievements for the unity of India," and stressed upon that national unity is embedded in every initiative and mission of the government.Sardar Patel's birth anniversary celebrated as Rashtriya Ekta Diwas, served as a poignant reminder of the leader's monumental role in uniting India."Sardar Patel's powerful voice, this grand program near the Statue of Unity, and the wonderful performances here--these glimpses of mini India are inspiring," PM Modi stated.The Prime Minister further announced that India would celebrate Sardar Patel's 150th birth anniversary over the next two years, ensuring that government initiatives reflect the theme of national unity.He noted the importance of achieving 'One Nation, One Election', which aims to streamline the electoral process in India.He concluded his address by reaffirming the commitment to national unity, emphasizing that "today marks the beginning of Sardar Patel's 150th birth anniversary year, a tribute to his extraordinary contributions to India."Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel's birth anniversary is celebrated as National Unity Day or Rashtriya Ekta Diwas on October 31.Since 2014, this day has been marked by 'Run for Unity' events nationwide, with participation from people from all walks of life.Born on October 31, 1875, in Nadiad, Gujarat, Sardar Patel is credited with uniting all 562 princely states of pre-independent India, helping to establish the Republic of India.He served as the country's first Deputy Prime Minister and Home Minister from 1947 to 1950 and passed away on December 15, 1950. Also Read: Raksha Bandhan 2024: Sand artist Sudarsan Pattnaik carves 'Lord Shiva and rakhi' sculpture at Puri beach 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
31 October,2024 12:10 PM IST | Puri | ANIAmerican band Maroon 5 to perform in India for the first time on December 3 at the Mahalaxmi RacecourseIndia, get ready for an unforgettable musical experience to mark the end of 2024, as BookMyShow Live brings the iconic pop rock band, Maroon 5 for the first time ever to the country this December. American award-winning band Maroon 5 is all set to perform at the Mahalaxmi Racecourse, in the heart of Mumbai, on December 3rd, 2024. Led by their iconic frontman Adam Levine, the Los Angeles-based band will take the stage in India for their debut performance, giving their passionate Indian fan-base a live experience like none other. The heart of Mumbai will pulse with electrifying tunes, as one of the world’s most loved pop-rock bands finally touches down, bringing with them decades of hits that have soundtracked lives across generations. Tickets for Maroon 5's first-ever performance in India will be available soon, exclusively on BookMyShow, India’s leading entertainment destination. Exclusive Pre-Sale of tickets for Kotak Credit Card customers will begin on November 6th, 2024 at 12 PM IST (Noon) on BookMyShow, offering first access to tickets for this highly-anticipated show, with specially curated offers available for Kotak White and White Reserve Credit Card customers. General On-Sale of tickets will go live starting November 8th, 2024 at 2 PM IST on the platform. BookMyShow Live, the live entertainment experiential division of BookMyShow, is the producer and promoter for Maroon 5’s concert in India, in partnership with Live Nation, the global producers of the tour. Owen Roncon, Chief of Business - Live Events, BookMyShow, said, “At BookMyShow Live, our mission has always been to bring world-class entertainment experiences to Indian audiences and cement India’s place on the global entertainment map. Maroon 5 is one of the foremost and most loved bands globally, across generations and bringing them to India for the very first time marks a thrilling milestone for us. Their music has transcended boundaries and cultures and we’re ecstatic to give Indian fans the unforgettable experience of seeing them live on home soil." With a career spanning three decades, Maroon 5’s diverse discography has regularly topped global charts, earning them super stardom status. Their music—an infectious blend of pop, rock and funk, has not only dominated the charts but has also become the backdrop to countless memories for fans worldwide. Now, that same energy will reverberate through Mumbai as fans experience Maroon 5 live, delivering a career-spanning set that will include everything from timeless classics to recent chart-toppers. Coming off their current Las Vegas residency to Mumbai this December, the fans will experience an electrifying performance from one of the most enduring and successful bands of the 21st century, as Maroon 5 prepares to end the year on an unforgettable note. Maroon 5 has continued to captivate audiences world-over with their renowned high-energy performances and fans can expect nothing less in Mumbai. The concert will feature a setlist spanning their greatest hits and fan favourites, offering a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Including hits like ‘This Love’, ‘She Will Be Loved’, ‘Sugar’, ‘Girls Like You’ and more! The numbers behind their success speak for themselves: Maroon 5 has sold over 98 million albums and 750 million singles worldwide and they've charted 32 records on the Billboard Hot 100, with three reaching Diamond certification (10x Platinum) in the U.S. Additionally, they've achieved 23 U.S. Platinum-certified singles and have set records for the most #1 hits on both the Pop Airplay and Adult Pop Airplay charts. The band’s songs have accumulated over 22 billion streams on Spotify, with 10 of their tracks surpassing 1 Billion streams each, including their 4x Platinum hit ‘Memories’. With the release of the 2021 album JORDI, which was dedicated to their late manager, they continued to build on this momentum and began their seventh consecutive Top 10 debut on the Billboard Top 200. Founded in 1994 under the name Kara’s Flowers, the group evolved into the powerhouse we know today. From their debut album ‘Songs About Jane’, which earned them a GRAMMY® Award for Best New Artist in 2005, to more recent hits like ‘Memories’, Maroon 5 has amassed a legacy, few can match. Their line-up, consisting of frontman and rhythm guitarist Adam Levine, lead guitarist James Valentine, keyboardist Jesse Carmichael, bassist Sam Farrar and drummer Matt Flynn, has produced an unforgettable array of songs that have shaped modern pop-rock music. Maroon 5 achieved this success on their own terms with an instantly recognisable and singular style. A combination of airtight songwriting, straightforward lyricism, clever wit and adventurous creativity has earmarked their hypnotic hybrid of rock and pop from day one. By looking ahead and challenging themselves and popular culture at every turn, Maroon 5 continue to redefine the modern American band. Maroon 5’s India concert is presented by Kotak Mahindra Bank.
30 October,2024 12:55 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondent
Dhanteras, one of the most auspicious occasions to buy gold, sees people visiting jewellery stores in large numbers and making gold purchases. Gold’s enduring value and resilience during economic uncertainty make it a preferable choice for investors. “Gold is seen as a hedge against dollar weakness. Given recent trends, it is always a good idea to have a small allocation to this asset class,” says Kavitha Menon, a SEBI-registered investment advisor and founder of Probitus Wealth. While physical gold (jewellery, coins, etc.) was for long the only way to invest in this precious metal, many other financial instruments have now come up through which one can own gold assets to diversify their portfolio. Menon informs, “Traditionally, gold was always held in the form of jewellery by Indian families. The purpose was always to create a safety net to tide over any adversities. Now, families can achieve the same purpose by buying tax-efficient and cost-efficient gold via Sovereign Gold Bonds (SGBs) and funds.” “Advisors use paper gold to seamlessly achieve asset allocation goals of their clients. In fact, gold finds its way in multi-asset funds as well. These funds hold gold ETFs (Exchange Traded Funds) as part of their gold allocation,” she adds. Given the range of gold investment options available and a lack of awareness about the same among the larger population, mid-day.com speaks to Menon and Vishal Jain, CEO, Zerodha Fund House, who help break it down. What are various ways in which one can invest in gold? Menon: There are two broad categories: One can buy jewellery or gold coins and bars. These are traditional ways of owning gold. Investors can own gold in paper form by buying gold ETFs, gold funds or SGBs. What are SGBs? Menon: SGBs are government-issued fixed maturity bonds that have gold as the underlying asset. Here, the price of the bond tracks gold prices, while the government also offers interest at 2.5 per cent. Jain: SGBs are government-backed securities, measured in grams of gold and issued as an alternative to owning the metal directly. They offer a secure way to invest in gold while earning interest, eliminating the costs and risks associated with storing physical gold. What are Gold ETFs? Menon: Gold ETFs are market-listed mutual funds that own gold as an underlying asset. They can be purchased from the market like any other stock. One needs to have a demat and trading account to buy gold ETFs. For investors who don't have a demat account, gold funds of ETFs are a good alternative. This fund of funds (FOF) can be purchased like any other regular mutual fund. Gold ETFs offer a lot more liquidity as compared to SGBs and may be invested in by those who have an investment time frame of less than 5 years. Jain: As volumes are thin in the secondary market for SGBs, an alternative option is to invest in Gold ETFs which have been around for over 15 years now. Gold ETFs are regulated products that can be bought and sold real-time on the exchanges, are low-cost, transparent, liquid, and are available in small denominations of even 1 unit. One could look at the Indicative Net Asset Value published on stock exchanges or AMC websites for reference. On the other hand, Gold FoFs can be invested just like any other mutual fund unit without the necessity of a demat account, and one could easily do SIPs through gold FOFs. Thus, depending on individual use cases, one could look at which avenue is most suitable. What are the tax rules for these gold instruments? Menon: The most tax-efficient are SGBs, as the capital gains on gold are tax exempt after five years. The interest of 2.5 per cent is however taxable at slab rates. Gold ETFs and gold funds are taxed at slab in the short term and at 12.5 per cent in the long term. Physical gold is also taxed at 12.5 per cent for long term gains. Jain: From a taxation perspective, Gold ETFs, as they are listed, have a STCG (short term capital gain) period of 1 year, taxed at the investor's slab rate and beyond that as LTCG (long term capital gain) of 12.5 per cent. Physical gold, digital gold and gold FOFs have a STCG period of 2 years taxed at the investor’s tax slab while beyond that is LTCG of 12.5 per cent. Thus, Gold ETFs have better taxation as compared to other forms. In your professional experience, which mode of gold investment is preferred by investors? What benefits does it offer? Menon: Clearly, from overall tax benefit and costs, SGBs are a winner. Physical gold is the most expensive, both in terms of taxes as well as the transaction cost. In physical gold, the spread between buy and sell rates can be as high as 10 per cent. Compare this with a near zero in SGBs or a 0.2 per cent to 0.35per cent of annual expenses in gold ETFs and funds, and you know who the winner is. Disclaimer: This does not replace professional financial advice. Consult a financial expert for personalised guidance. Also Read: Diwali 2024: Will inflation affect gold buying during Dhanteras in Mumbai?
29 October,2024 09:54 AM IST | Mumbai | Raaina JainReturning for its 15th edition, Literature Live! The Mumbai LitFest 2024 is set to be held from November 15-17 at the NCPA in Nariman Point with over 125 writers, speakers, thinkers and performers from 13 countries. The three-day literary festival promises to once more regale audiences with lively and stimulating sessions across a wide variety of subjects ranging from poetry to business, history to conservation, society to travel, science fiction to entertainment, and beyond. This year’s stellar line up will include Arundhathi Subramaniam, Christopher Merrill, Farrukh Dhondy, Gautam Bhatia, Gulzar, Huma Qureshi, Hussain Zaidi, Ila Arun, Jane Goodall, Jane Ohlmeyer, L Subramaniam, Lavanya Lakshminarayan, Marcus du Sautoy, Mohinder Amarnath, Murzban Shroff, Pavan K Verma, Prajakta Koli, Pico Iyer, Ranjit Hoskote, Shahu Patole, Subhash Ghai, William Dalrymple. The festival highlights of The Great Debate, the prestigious Lifetime, Poet Laureate and Literary Awards, Book in Focus, book launches and daily dramatic performances will continue to feature. The Rotary Writing for Peace Award, the Sultan Padamsee Awards for Playwriting and the Binod Kanoria Awards for Children’s Literature will be announced. The keenly awaited book swap, daily workshops and campus outreaches for college students will also be held. Every year the Litfest mounts a new experience for its visitors. This year’s is a specially created Virtual Reality installation, that places the viewer right in the middle of Franz Kafka’s The Metamorphosis. The book is also this year’s Book in Focus at the Festival, to commemorate the author’s 100th death anniversary. The Little Festival, a special Litfest for children of ages 8 to 14 from city schools and NGOs, will be held simultaneously on Friday 15 and Saturday 16 November at the NCPA in collaboration with the H T Parekh Foundation, presenting children’s books by Indian and international writers. Unique features will be bilingual sessions, the moderation of discussions by children, a Literary Zone for storytelling, and nature walks. Celebrating this landmark year, festival co-director Amy Fernandes said, “The Literature Live! Mumbai Litfest was started by Anil Dharker, ably supported by Shashi Baliga. in 2010, both of whom tragically left us in 2021. Every year we bring to Mumbai a memorable cast of world class thinkers, writers, and speakers in almost every field of human thought and action. As we reach the milestone of 15 unbroken years, we are proud of having kept the Festival running even through the pandemic years by going online, then hybrid. We are grateful to our presenting sponsor Godrej Industries for their support in sustaining this vital cultural endeavour, and to NCPA, Kotak and all our partners who have steadfastly supported us on this journey”. Quasar Thakore Padamsee, festival co-director said, “I have been associated with Literature Live! The Mumbai Litfest since its inception and consider it a privilege to have participated in and witnessed its journey to the iconic status it has justifiably achieved. Over the years we have held a series of fantastic literary events, and most critically have built a vital platform of diversity, inclusivity, and innovation. In a convenient turn of numbers, this is a double celebration year as art management company QTP (of which I am a part), who produce the Festival, is celebrating its silver jubilee. I hope this most fitting and happy association continues well into the future.” Nadir Godrej, chairperson, Godrej Industries Group, said, “Godrej Industries Group is pleased to associate with Literature Live! The Mumbai LitFest as the presenting sponsor. Our commitment to supporting and nurturing the literary arts aligns with our belief in the power of conversations and culture to inspire and connect communities. We look forward to fostering creativity, dialogue, and a deeper appreciation for literature through this cherished partnership.” Some past participants are A C Grayling, Adil Jussawalla, Alexander McCall Smith, Anita Desai, Amitabh Bachchan, Amitav Ghosh, Amy Tan, Anthony Horowitz, Christophe Jaffrelot, David Baldacci, Geetanjali Shree, Germaine Greer, Gieve Patel, Irwin Allan Sealy, Indra Nooyi, Javed Akhtar, Jeffrey Archer, Mahesh Elkunchwar, Margaret Drabble, Mark Tully, Marlon James, Miriam Margolyes, Neena Gupta, Neil Gaiman, Nick Hornby, Raghuram Rajan, Ramachandra Guha, Roger Penrose, Ruskin Bond, Salman Rushdie, Shashi Tharoor, Siddhartha Mukherjee, Steven Pinker, Sudha Murty, T M Krishna, Thomas Friedman.
28 October,2024 01:49 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentPunjabi superstar Diljit Dosanjh set the stage on fire in Delhi during his Dil-Luminati India Tour 2024 at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium. On Sunday, the actor-singer took to his Instagram to share an array of pictures from the event. The first picture shows him holding the National Flag as he stood on stage. Diljit also gave a glimpse of the massive crowd inside the stadium. View this post on Instagram A post shared by DILJIT DOSANJH (@diljitdosanjh) He wrote in the caption, “History (pushpin emoji). Dosanjhanwala Naam DELHI Utey Likheya Khaasa Zor Lagg Ju Mitaun wastey (I wrote the name ‘Dosanjhwala’ all over Delhi. It’ll take a lot to erase it)". It’s a line from one of his songs. He further mentioned, “DIL-LUMINATI TOUR Year 24 (Lotus Emoji) Milde an Same Time Same Stadium (Let's meet at the same time same stadium) (Stadium Emoji) Day 2”. Earlier, Diljit performed overseas in North America, Europe, Australia, and New Zealand, and has now returned to India for a 10-city tour across Hyderabad, Ahmedabad, Lucknow, Pune, Kolkata, and more, before concluding with a grand finale in Guwahati on December 29. 2024 has been a great year for Diljit so far. The Punjabi superstar was earlier seen in the biopic ‘Amar Singh Chamkila’. The film, which was released on Netflix, garnered great response from all quarters, and was noted for its narrative style and a chartbuster OST by the Oscar and Grammy-winning composer A. R. Rahman. He was also seen in a cameo appearance in the female led film ‘Crew’. The film which starred Tabu, Kareena Kapoor Khan and Kriti Sanon in lead roles, received great response upon its theatrical release. Diljit also performed with the English singer-songwriter Ed Sheeran during his visit to India, and made him sing in Punjabi while performing on-stage at Mahalakshmi Race Course during Ed Sheeran’s +-=÷x 2024 India Tour. Also Read: Lights, sound, action! Tracing the dynamics of concert culture in India 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
27 October,2024 02:32 PM IST | New Delhi | IANSPreparations are complete in Ayodhya for the grand Deepotsav celebration with a target of lighting 2.5 million diyas and set a world record. Diyas have been delivered to all 55 ghats along the sacred 'Ram Ki Paidi', and volunteers have started arranging them in intricate designs. Each ghat will see rows of diyas set up in a 16x16 grid, amounting to 256 diyas per block. Over 30,000 volunteers from Awadh University and its 36 affiliated colleges, as well as from local non-profit organisations, are actively engaged in this effort. Within two days, 2.8 million diyas will be set up on Ram Ki Paidi, with a target of lighting at least 2.5 million of them to set a world record. This Deepavali marks the first celebration with Lord Ram seated in the newly consecrated Ram Temple. UP Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath aims to make this year’s Deepotsav a magnificent spectacle, reminiscent of his divine welcome in Treta Yuga. Harshit Kumar, a local Ayodhya resident, shared his excitement: “I’ve been participating in this diya lighting for three years now. This year, we’re responsible for decorating four ghats with around 60,000 diyas. I am grateful to CM Yogi for organising this event so beautifully, and it’s an honour to participate.” Another volunteer, Aditya, is a first-time participant among the students decorating the ghats. He said, “We arrived in the morning (Sunday), and it’s thrilling to be part of the Deepotsav. It’s a special experience lighting diyas here.” In addition to the diya lighting, a spectacular drone show is scheduled on the day of Diwali, adding another layer of grandeur to Ayodhya's Deepotsav, which has become a global symbol of celebration and devotion. Also Read: Diwali 2024: Eco-friendly and DIY ideas to elevate your home décor 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
27 October,2024 02:32 PM IST | Ayodhya | IANSIt is not perfect. Its beauty lies in its imperfection—its inability to foster an exact replication of its counterparts. This quality is what sets ‘Dhokra’ apart from innumerable mass-produced, machine-made goods that flood the Indian market. Preserving these handcrafted treasures serves as a living testament to the diverse cultural landscape that define India. Primarily practised by tribal artisans in Chhatisgarh and some belts of Jharkhand, Madhya Pradesh, West Bengal and Orissa, this bell metal craft uses the lost-wax casting technique, also called ‘cire perdue’. Its origins can be traced back to the Indus Valley Civilisation. A bronze sculpture of a dancing girl, which was excavated from Mohenjo Daro in 1926, is believed to be the earliest model of this technique. More than 4000-years old, the Dhokra art of non-ferrous metal casting is not only a representation of the rich legacy of Indian crafts but also an important part of the identity of several tribes in India, like the ‘Ghadwas’ in Bastar. ‘Ghadna’ essentially means ‘creating or giving shape to something’, a reflection of what these artisans do as a part of their culture as well as livelihoods. This art form is characterised by folk motifs and imaginative designs. Amidst rapid urbanisation and digitisation, we rarely pause to appreciate the rich heritage of indigenous crafts now facing the threat of extinction. As the pace of modernisation accelerates, these traditional art forms, once integral to India’s cultural identity, teeter on the brink of being lost forever. What exactly is Dhokra? How do the products take shape? What does a day in the life of a Dhokra artisan look like? Is this art form dying? These questions lead us to a small village, Kondagaon, approximately 80 km away from Jagdalpur, the administrative headquarters of Bastar district. As we make our way to the countryside, navigating through Sal tree-lined roads, the presence of the craft is fairly visible. Dogra elephants adorn the entrances of homes and shops selling these craft items can be seen. In the workshop, the artisans carry out their jobs without distraction, each skillfully completing their tasks in different stages of the production process. The Dhokra process Shabbir Nag, who runs the unit, takes us through the process that starts with black soil and ends with beautiful metal artefacts that range from animals, tribal figurines, Gods, objects of everyday use, Jhitku Mitki sculptures (important figures of Chhatisgarh and Jharkhand folklore), and more. Three types of soils are used in the making of Dhokra artefacts – dry black soil (khet ki mitti), soil from river banks (nadi kinaare ki mitti) and mud from mounds made by termites (deemak mitti). The black soil, mixed with rice husk, is used to build the base, which is then covered with another layer of soil. Once this is in place, natural wax is used to add the design and intricate details. Wax threads cover the base, after which it is evened out and finer detailing and intricate carvings in the design are done. The design and detailing is done using wax (Pics: Special Arrangement) The object is then covered with a thick layer of clay and heated at about 1300 degree Celsius so that the wax melts away. Molten metal (brass alloys) is then poured into the products. Molten metal is poured into the moulds The metal takes the shape of the mould, and the outer mud covering is broken, thus creating the final product. This whole method is called lost-wax casting. The outer mud mould is broken and the metal artefact appears Each product that lays in front of us has a unique design and finish. Some of these, we are informed, are being made for Jaypore, an artisanal lifestyle brand that collaborates with tribal artisans to take their craft to the larger population. Artistic skills passed through generations When we bring Dhokra products home or gift them to someone, seldom do we think of the work that goes into making them. Metal casting is a tedious process that requires skill, precision and experience. A few hours standing around the burning furnace and we couldn’t stop our eyes from watering and our throats from coughing. These artisans experience this on a daily basis from 8 AM to 4 PM, and having mastered both the skill and the challenges that come with working in the workshop, they are unbothered by it all. Nag was introduced to the craft as a child. However, his father had to leave the occupation due to several reasons. His elder brother then resumed the legacy, and Nag has been continuing it ever since. He informs, “I used to work at another unit and earn Rs. 5 per day. It gradually reached Rs. 28 per day. Over time, we saved some money and started this workshop.” Nag reveals that 30-40 artisans are associated with him currently, and Dhokra is what helps them and their families sustain. Depending on the work, an artisan generally earns Rs. 8000–10,000 a month. Shabbir Nag (top left) and a few people who work with him “I have been working here for 20 years now, and through this, I have been able to fund my daughter’s higher education. She’s studying to be a lawyer,” shares Asha ji, a 60-year-old artisan at the workshop. Nag stresses that women are integral contributors to the whole process. “From mixing mud, gobar, etc., to extracting wax strips to breaking the mud covering of the products, women are involved in various parts of the process,” he says. Also Read: Midday Special: How this Mumbai village survives on the community’s togetherness While Nag’s unit is able to sustain due to the scale of his operations and orders from urban brands, not all 200-250 tribal families that practise this craft in Kondagaon are thriving. Is Dhokra a dying art form? In August last year, this craft came into the spotlight when Prime Minister Narendra Modi gifted a Dhokra artefact to Greece officials on his visit to the country. This enchanting art form that tells stories of ancient tribal life attracts international attention and demand, but it finds itself in challenging waters on the ground level. While several government schemes are in place for the advancement of the craft, seldom do the benefits truly reach the intended beneficiaries. Additionally, changing lifestyles and lucrative professions is pushing it to the brink of extinction. A dwindling interest in the craft from locals, a market gap between traditional designs and urban preferences, logistical challenges, competition from machine-made goods, etc., are leading to limited reach and fewer takers for these artefacts. Younger generation, drawn to more stable careers, is also leaving in pursuit of better opportunities and remuneration. Dhokra is fighting for survival and yearning for revival. But all hope is not lost. Perhaps the fact that two design students from a nearby university are at the workshop to observe and study the craft presents a glimmer of hope, a sign that people are interested in knowing more about its history and culture. Perhaps the fact that these products are reaching households across the country through various brands serves as a starting point to tap into the potential of its growth. Reflecting on how this can help the craft prosper, Radhika Chhabra, Creative Head, Jaypore, says, “Our collaboration with the Ghadwa artisans has been a remarkable journey of mutual growth. We take pride in preserving and promoting traditional crafts, while also ensuring that the talented hands behind these creations receive the recognition and support they deserve.” However, a lot more needs to be done. Better access to raw materials, safe working conditions, greater support from the government and social sector, better promotional strategies, and the creation of more marketplaces for the products can save this art form from dying. Supporting ancient crafts is about preserving tradition but also creating a sustainable future for tribal artisans, who not only infuse their skills into these products but also their stories.
26 October,2024 07:06 PM IST | Mumbai | Raaina JainBritish singer-songwriter Jay Sean is very excited to perform in Mumbai this weekend. While he promises to play his classics like 'Ride It' and 'Down', he is also looking forward to showcasing his newer music like 'Piche Piche' and ‘Call You Mine’ among others. It is definitely going to be a journey of two decades that every Indian Millennial and even Gen-Z has been a part of, including this writer—all of whom grew up singing his tunes. Now in Mumbai, Jay is going to be performing at the Mahalaxmi Racecourse for fans at Nykaaland 2.0, the second edition, which has been produced by BookMyShow Live. While the three-day beauty and lifestyle festival will see other artists like OAFF & Savera, Kayan, GauriWho, Yung Raja and Anuv Jain to name a few. It will also see the singer, who is known for his smooth vocals and songwriting. He shares, “I am very excited to perform this weekend because Mumbai is one of my favourite cities in the world, and I've never performed at Nykaaland before, so this is going to be new for me. I'm going to be throwing a party (during my performance) because that's what I love to do. I love to make people dance and sing by providing all the classics to the new material all the way.” Understanding fans Starting out with The Rishi Rich Project in the early 2000s before launching his solo career, he has been active for two decades since ‘Me Against Myself’ (2004). With English music interspersed with Punjabi lyrics and beats, he became an instant hit with the Indian diaspora and in India, immediately cementing his relationship with his family’s country of origin. Born in a Punjabi Sikh family as Kamaljit Singh Jhooti, Jay Sean has been able to connect with his ancestral roots in more than one way over the years. Almost two decades later, every time he comes to India, fans can't help but tune into his music to live the 2000s again, but not without the latest releases. It won’t be any different this weekend, and that shows how he has evolved as an artist. Ask him what makes Indian fans connect with him so easily, and he shares, “I like to make music that is genuine and authentic. I am a songwriter and write my own music, and it is a blessing to be able to do that. Everything that I'm giving you is me, and it is genuine. It is a 100 per cent Jay Sean. I'm not trying to sound a little bit like this person because it is just me and what I like to give to the world.” It has also helped him know what his fans around the world want from him. “I know what they love, and that is a beautiful thing. It is the biggest dream for any artist to be able to touch the hearts of your fans, and knowing how to do that is just the biggest blessing,” he adds. This very realisation has also given him the liberty to be true to himself and his music, and that has helped him evolve, which he considers to be an important part of his success. He shares, “Evolution is important for survival in life. As you get older in life, you learn more about yourself, life, and the world—and that is important not just in music but also in life. It is a skill that allows you to go seamlessly through this life without longing for the past or being disingenuous. So, for me, I think it has a lot to do with self-awareness and knowing what my fans want musically.” Evolving and promoting South Asian artists Two decades and four albums later, including My Own Way (2008), All or Nothing (2009) and Neon (2013), he has not only paved the way for himself but also for other South Asian artistes. Personally, he has seen how it has all grown by leaps and bouts. He explains, “The sound of music will change. If we are talking technically about music the sound of certain instruments changes, and you may not use that music anymore or even use that instrument anymore.” Believing it is the same with some of the artists coming out, he highlights the change in India itself. “I know that hip hop has taken India by storm in the last few years, and the number of rappers coming out of India is the most mind-blowing thing to me. When I started off 20 years ago in India, rap wasn't even a thing, and that's why it is so cool to see all this happening.” This has inspired him to start his own record company, 3AM Entertainment, earlier this year to promote South Asian artists. “We have signed a rapper from ‘Dilli (Delhi) called Zefaan, who is from India but sings in English and also does his dialect a bit.” Over the years, he has collaborated with many artists in India, but most recently he released three of them. While the first one is ‘Heartless’ with Ikky, the second is 'Piche Piche' with Jai Dhir, and ‘Call You Mine’ only last weekend, ahead of his performance in Mumbai. The best part about them is that you can see the evolution in his music, but it is still the Jay Sean we know. Interestingly, there is more to the singer-songwriter than his music and Mumbai. Ever since Jay has been coming to India almost every year for the last 20 years, he has made a lot of friends in the city, and when he is not performing, the singer-songwriter is busy enjoying the city’s culture and food for one reason. “I gave up meat and have become a pescatarian, so there is a lot of seafood, and I enjoy that,” says Jay, who admits that most people don't know that Mumbai has a lot of good sushi restaurants, and undoubtedly, he enjoys savouring that here. While Jay Sean has released three singles from his upcoming album ‘Last Call’, they are still to decide on a release date, and fans are definitely hoping it will be soon.
26 October,2024 05:47 PM IST | Mumbai | Nascimento PintoCanadian rock icon Bryan Adams is set to perform in Goa with his 'So Happy It Hurts World Tour' on December 17 at the Bambolim Athletic Stadium. After an overwhelming response in Mumbai, fans now have the opportunity to visit the sunshine state to watch the performance. Interestingly, the early bird tickets are already sold out. Having almost sold-out his six-city tour comprising Kolkata, Shillong, Gurugram, Mumbai, Bengaluru and Hyderabad, this announcement marks the legendary singer-songwriter’s first-ever performance in the vibrant city of Goa. This additional stop in the tropical paradise of India promises to be an unforgettable night of evergreen hits that have become classic rock anthems and timeless ballads across generations. Presented by SG Live in collaboration with EVA Live and Twin Spin Sports, the concert aspires to reminisce the best of Adams' four-decade career, from classics such as 'Summer Of '69,' 'Everything I Do I Do It For You' to tracks from his Grammy-nominated album 'So Happy It Hurts’. Bryan Adams is thrilled to announce his return to India with a concert in Goa. The renowned singer-songwriter showcases his excitement for the performance and states, "I’m thrilled to be coming to perform in Goa, a place I’ve not been to before. looking forward to sharing a night of rocking music that resonates long after the final note." This announcement comes on the heels of overwhelming demand and excitement for Bryan Adams’ return to India after a five-year hiatus. The tour, already acclaimed as one of the highest-selling international tours in the country, will now reach an even wider audience with the addition of the Goa concert. Deepak Choudhary, Founder & Managing Director, EVA Live, expresses his enthusiasm about the Goa addition to the tour and says, "Having Bryan Adams perform in Goa feels like the perfect culmination of the India leg of his global tour. Goa's distinctive landscape combined with Adams' legendary music promises a night that will leave a lasting impression on everyone." Goa will be the epicentre of rock 'n' roll as Bryan Adams concludes his India World Tour. This exclusive concert offers fans a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to experience his legendary live performance amidst the vibrant landscape of sun, sea and sand. Music enthusiasts from across India are expected to converge in Goa to celebrate a night where music, timelessness and technology are set to converge. Adding on Manjeet Singh Grewal, Director Live Entertainment, Twin Spin Sports states “Get ready to experience a night of pure classics! We're thrilled to bring Bryan Adams to Goa for an unforgettable concert. His electrifying performance will be a musical joyride down memory lane and Goa is the perfect venue to hold such a magical concert. Limited tickets are available, so don't miss out on your opportunity to be a part of this not-to-be missed spectacle.” Fans can purchase tickets for the Goa concert exclusively on the Live tab of the Zomato app. Ticket prices start from Rs 2,499 and go up to Rs 16,999 with Lounge, Platinum, Gold and Silver as the various categories.
26 October,2024 11:52 AM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentVino di Bella Wines presents the first immersive theatrical play “A Vineyard Story,” centered on wine culture—an exciting fusion of art and beverage. It is a hilarious one-hour performance that roasts the nuances of wine connoisseurship in a delightful mix of Hinglish, making it relatable and entertaining for everyone. Indulge in a curated experience that pairs two glasses of premium wine with gourmet nibbles, perfectly designed to complement the unfolding narrative. Immerse yourself in the action with intimate theater seating that encourages interaction between the audience and performers, creating an unforgettable atmosphere. Experience vibrant dance and music performances woven into the storytelling, adding rhythm and excitement to the already engaging narrative.Delve into the social and cultural aspects of wine drinking, as the play captures the joy and love surrounding this elegant beverage. Explore a dedicated art and souvenir station inspired by wine culture, allowing you to take a piece of the experience home with you. Whether you’re a seasoned connoisseur or a curious newbie, this event offers a fun, educational experience that will elevate your appreciation for wine. Connect with fellow wine enthusiasts, theater lovers, and young professionals in a relaxed yet sophisticated setting, making it a perfect evening out. Tickets are priced at Rs 3000 (all-inclusive) and are available on BookMyShow. Event Details:What: A Vineyard Story: An Immersive Theatrical PlayWhen: October 26Time: 6 pm onwardsWhere: Mansion, Radisson Blu Mumbai International AirportTicket price: Rs 3,000 (includes play, 2 glasses of wine, gourmet nibbles)
26 October,2024 11:38 AM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondent
A creative force to be reckoned with, Sumukhi Suresh is a standup comedian, writer, and actor. Known for her sharp observations, relatable humour, and unapologetic honesty, Suresh has come a long way from her days of improv comedy in Bengaluru. Having captivated audiences in India with her sharp wit, she recently returned from a successful stint at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival. The festival's diverse and challenging atmosphere offered Suresh a unique opportunity to showcase her talent to a global audience. Beyond her comedic talents, Suresh is also credited with creating the critically acclaimed web series ‘Pushpavalli.’ She ticked off a personal to-do list when she wrote dialogues for filmmaker Vikramaditya Motwane’s latest thriller, ‘CTRL’ starring Ananya Pandey. In an exclusive chat with mid-day.com, she shares her experience of performing at the international festival, advice for budding comics, widening creative horizons and crafting her own path. Here are the edited excerpts: What is the biggest source of inspiration for your comedy? My life! I mean, if you would live my life, make the bad life choices I make, and act on impulse instead of sound thought process, comedy will come to you automatically. I am blessed with the worst luck, and that's the best thing to happen to my comedy career. How do you navigate the challenges of balancing your personal opinions with the expectations of a diverse audience?When on stage, I make sure I speak the most honest version of my opinion or take. I also keep things and jokes on me rather than people. This helps the audience to relate the way they want to. When I am writing a movie or a show, I try to layer in my opinions in the smartest way possible. No one likes on the nose preaching. Did your experience at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival influence your approach to comedy in any significant way, such as in terms of material or performance style?Doing shows continuously, hanging with other comics, and watching other performances made me remember the reason why I love what I do. Edinburgh is a celebration of performance, and it inspires you to try different things with your craft. I definitely came back with new ideas for my next stand-up solo. And I also thought about changing up the style of delivery, maybe!What was the most challenging aspect of performing at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival?I did half the run, and honestly, I had a blast. If I had done the whole run, maybe it would have got to me. But I hit the sweet spot with 12 shows.What were some of the most memorable or unexpected reactions you received from the Edinburgh audience?I don't stop myself from using Tamil or Hindi on my set just because the crowd won't get it. I am so glad the local audience enjoyed that! For my last show, I made the entire audience dance on ‘Kajra Re’, and personally, that was the highlight of my year. While there has been a notable increase in female comics in India, how do you perceive the overall state of diversity and representation in the Indian comedy scene?The increase in different female voices has been the best thing to happen to the scene. Gurleen (Pannu), Swati (Sachdeva), Sumaira (Shaikh) have such distinct and young approaches to it that it's made more audiences come out to watch female comics. We are yet to hear the voices of Tier 2 girls, and that is going to change the game when it happens. There is so much gap that still exists. I hope the more the audience opens up to watching more of us on stage. How did you transition from writing comedic material to crafting dialogues for a digital thriller like CTRL? What were the key differences in the creative process? I love writing dialogue. I realised that when I wrote for both seasons of Pushpavalli on Amazon Prime. I would've never thought I would be approached to write for a thriller, so I am very glad I was. I learnt a lot, and it helped increase my range of writing. I like to write dialogues that make you believe that it was almost improvised. That creative process remained the same. With non comedy genres you need to be very mindful of the emotional graph of the character and choose to move the plot ahead rather than concentrating on jokes.What was it like collaborating with the director and other members of the creative team to bring your dialogues to life on screen? Working with Vikramaditya Motwane has been on my to do list since Udaan. He is an icon. His writing and his direction is a master class in storytelling, and I am so glad I got to work with him. Avinash Sampath's writing and workstyle are so straight, simple, and clutter free. I relearnt the concept of keeping it simple to keep it fun. Jasmin, Motwane’s DA (director’s assistant), is the backbone of CTRL, and more than anything, I can't wait to work with her again. You've been involved in various projects, from stand-up specials to web series and films. Which medium do you find most fulfilling, and why? TOUGHEST QUESTION! Let's put it like this. Stand-up gives me validation. Writing gives me power, and acting gives me a sense of calm. I need a good mix of all of them to feel fulfilled. What would you say to someone who is just starting out in comedy? Do open mics. Be ready to bomb on stage. Try other aspects of comedy too to build your stand-up better.
26 October,2024 11:09 AM IST | Mumbai | Maitrai AgarwalADVERTISEMENT
