Hon Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, Hon Governor Bhagat Singh Koshyari, Deputy CM Devendra Phadnis, Tourism Minister Mangal Prabhat Lodha along with singer Madhushree performed Ganesh Aarti! Famous stars of the film world also performed Ganraj's aarti with political figures before immersion!

The Film fraternity and political figures gathered from the fair to bid farewell to Ganpati Bappa, yes, before the Ganpati Visarjan of Maharashtra  Tourism along
With Times of India, Hon. Chief Minister of Maharashtra Eknath Shinde ji, Hon. Governor Bhagat Singh Koshiyari, Deputy CM Devendra Phadnis, Maharashtra Tourism Minister, Mangal Prabhat Lodha, Dhananjay Sawalkar -- DoT Director arrived specially to perform Bappa's aarti and bow at his feet.  The aarti of Ganaraya was completed at the hands of the dignitaries,


Singer Madhushree also was present as special guest.  Madhushree along with Hon. Chief Minister Eknath Shinde ji, Hon Governor Bhagat Singh Koshyari, Deputy CM Devendra Fadnavis, Anuradha Paudwal also performed Bappa's aarti.  Apart from this, celebrities including  actor Dilip Tahil, Aditi Govitrikar, Dinesh Shah, Vinayak Prabhu, Dr. Anusha Srinivasan Iyer, Robbie Badal, Satish Vyas, Kuldeep Singh, Jaswinder Singh, Dr. Ramani attended the momentous event where the sea of humans were seen bidding farewell to Bappa.

Roopkumar Rathod, Leslee Lewis, Kavya Jones grace Sanjukta Arun's Into The Deep at Jehangir Art Gallery

"Forget not that the earth delights to feel your bare feet and the winds long to play with your hair," says Renowned artist Sanjukta Arun whose current exhibition 'Into The Deep' is being held at the  Jehangir Art Gallery, Kala Ghoda from Aug 30-Sept 5. The series on display brings to the fore the beauty and importance of Nature and the tearing need to attend to the wake up call, to save Mother Earth.

"Creating awareness about our environment is of extreme importance because it can help to minimise the damage caused due to destruction caused by industrialisation, pollution and modernisation leading to Global warming," et al reflects Sanjukta.

 "My current series focuses on the beauty of nature in its myriad hues. It is time we realise that our existence totally depends on how we take care of our planet."

Sanjukta Arun's exhibition was graced by Nafisa Khorakiwala, Dr Habil Khorakiwala, Roopkumar Rathod, Vijay Darda, Leslee Lewis, Kavya Jones, Dr Aneel Kashi Murarka, Prithvi Soni, Padmanabh Bendre, Rajendra Patil, Vinod Sharma, Ajoykant Ruia, Arun Arora, Vijay Lazarus, Nayana Kanodia, Vijay Kalantri, Rupa Naik, Papiya Das, Banamali Das, Suniti Kukarni, Renu Arya and many more.

The Music Video Project (MVP) by MCGM with Kala Ghoda Arts Festival brings to you a celebration of our diverse, creative and inclusive city of Mumbai, The Music Video Project (MVP) Kick Off, powered by 48 Hour Film Project kicked off with dignitaries on July 29, at 5pm at Rude Lounge, Powai with 12 musicians, 70 film teams.

An initiative of Mumbai --  City of  Film and UNESCO -- Member of The Creative Cities Network, the music curated by Wobble Creative and Content  Channel Partner -- Pocket Films, the event saw a bevy of dignitaries including
 Brinda Miller,  
 Vivek Bhimanwar, IAS, MD -- Maharashtra Film, Stage & Cultural Development Corporation Limited,  Satish Vasan representing CINTAA, Shashi Bala, Preeti  Gopalakrishnan, Yogi Chopra,  RJ Meera, among others.
All in all, an exciting beginning indeed...

*DJ Akbar Sami’s Tu Meri Senorita launched by Salim-Suleiman, Longinus Fernandes*

  

 

The pioneer of DJ music in India is back. DJ Akbar Sami, who more than turned tables and eyes with his remix albums, as well as originals such as Jalwa, Jalwa 2 and Jadoo and official breath-taking Bollywood remixes in movies such as Aashiq Banaya Aapne, Wanted, Partner, Bhool Bhulaiya, The Train, Fool n Final, Heyy Baby, Namaste London and hundreds more now brings to you his latest original musical offering, ‘Tu Meri Senorita’, composed by him and sung along with Grammy-winning singer Tanvi Shah of ‘Jai Ho’ fame.

The poster launch of Tu Meri Senorita by DJ Akbar Sami is at the hands of industry legends Salim-Sulaiman, DJ Akbar Sami And Bollywood Ace Choreographer Longinus Fernandes, at Salim-Sulaiman’s very own Blue Productions at Juhu.

DJ Akbar Sami, who has toured internationally at events like the Roar Tour – USA, The Emporium Beach Festival – Japan, with Salim-Sulaiman at Sufitronik and Sonu Nigam at The Melody Makers, with countless others, is elated.

More about the amazing music maker: DJ Akbar Sami is the winner of innumerable awards the world over including the INCA ‘DJ of the Decade Award’. He is also one of the judges for The Mirchi Music Awards for the last five years, besides many other musical events. DJ Akbar Sami, incidentally, is also the first of his kind to be on The Indian Idol on Sony to design the music for the participants and to perform live at the show. He has also been a Guest Performer on SaReGaMaPa on Zee creating history, as no Deejay has ever been a part of this musical event on television. He is recognized as one of the pioneer Indian DJs in the United States of America and has been awarded by the Mayor of San Francisco for the same.

Known for his chiseled looks as well as his mastery over music, DJ Akbar Sami has composed for the movie Risk and Fast Forward, was a sound designer For Aan (Men At Work) Phir Hera Pheri, Awaara Paagal Deewana and received rave reviews for the music. The official sound track Ertugrul -- Jahan Teri Yeh Nazar Hai -- Teri Meri Kahani with Ronu Mondal and Himesh Reshammiya is making waves as well.

The original song of Tu Meri Senorita is entirely composed and sung by Akbar Sami, along with additional vocals by Tanvi Shah, lyrics by Honey Pahwa and arranging/production by Pritom Dutta, guitars and recording at R&B Studios with Bhassker Saikiya with the video being directed by Adnan Ali, starring Akbar Sami and Ukrainian model Natalie Lazurenko, with production by Running Water Films in association with Charizma Entertainment and shot at Goa in Manderem Beach, Morjim Beach and Club Las Olas in Bagha Beach.

DJ Akbar Sami’s much-awaited single, Tu Meri Senorita will be released on T-Series on February 12.

CINTAA & CAWT Committees Express Gratitude For MCGM Support

The Executive Committee of Cine & TV Artistes Association (CINTAA) along with trustees of Cine Artistes’ Welfare Trust (CAWT) visited the MCGM HQ to express their  gratitude to MCGM Commissioner Iqbal Singh Chahal  for his support and guidance to help acquire the Occupancy Certificate (OC) for the CINTAA Tower, Andheri West.
Present at the meeting were SVP Manoj Joshi,  Treasurer Abhay Bhargav, Hetal Parmar and Tej Sapru of CINTAA along with Johnny Lever,  Ms. Priti Sapru and Secretary J D Tiwari of CAWT.

Dil De Diya from Radhe spells double win for Payal Dev with the superhit Salman Khan-Himesh Reshammiya combo

As Dil De Diya from Radhe Radhe, composed by  Himesh Reshamiya and picturised on Salman Khan and Jacqueline Fernandes,  releases today, Payal Dev's mellifluous voice once again creates history.
One of the most sought-after upcoming musicmakers today in the Hindi Film Industry, Payal Dev started her career as a singer, but a chance encounter escalated her journey from being just a singer to being a singer-composer.
Nevertheless, this bundle of talent is being sought after by all composers for her unique voice texture and the ability to sing across genres with effortless ease.
"Every song is unique and crafted with love by the composer and bedecked with jewels by the arranger. The singer is expected to deliver the crown jewel and each time I lend my voice to a melody, it is a life-changing experience," gushes Payal Dev.
Speaking of Dil De Diya, Payal feels that it is a double win for her with the superhit combination of Salman Khan and Himesh Reshammiya combined with her voice in a jumma song, releasing on a Friday.

Says she, "Himesh bhai knows the texture of my voice. His vision is clear as a composer. He knows what he wants. And it is very easy to sing for him as he directs you through the song effortlessly.
The essence of a song is in its vibe when you hear it for the first time. This song had the essence and mood of Jumme ki Raat. I had sung Genda Phool and Saasein hui Dhuan Dhuan in Race and this is my third song for Jacqueline & fourth song for Salman bhai
I followed Himesh bhai's thought and vision and he knew I could deliver. And that was most important. He loves my voice texture and explores a newer dimension of my voice, a different texture, a different feel, a different tone. This was a dance track and you need that mood when you dub. This is very important for me. As a singer, when you feel the essence of his creation and take it forward, the results are magical. Like in the case of Dil De Diya," she elaborates.
If you recall, Tum Hi Aana, Payal's first chartbuster opened floodgates of offers for her as a composer and since then, she has delivered hits one after the other whether the song has been for movies or for a digital release.
In a very short time, she has seen a mercurial rise in her career as a composer and singer due to all the love from the fraternity and fans alike.
Payal, who started her professional journey in Mumbai by singing for several brand ad-film jingles, documentaries, corporate songs for various music directors, is also the voice behind title song of Grand-Masti, a runaway hit.
Payal had lent her voice to songs in movies like Bajirao Mastani, Race 3, Dabanng 3, Student of the Year 2, to name a few, besides independent Songs - Genda Phool, KYON, Dil Chahtey Ho, Baarish, Bepanaah Pyaar among others.
Be it singing or composing Payal loves exploring new sounds and styles while delving with different genres like pop, western, jazz, ghazals, hip-hop, rock, and more.
She’s a true devotee of music and for her, each song is like a baby which she wants to nurture and grow to the full potential, so that her fans and music lovers are left mesmerised.
Dil De Diya is another feather in Payal Dev's overcrowned cap. And the Salman Khan-Himesh Reshammiya combination adds to that glitter as much.

 

Song link : https://youtu.be/e1Bj4tMGh64

 

Rajveer Deol – Avnish Barjatya Team Together For Their Debuts in Rajshri’s Next

Rajshri Productions (P) Ltd. is hailed as India’s premier film production house that has made its unique mark with wholesome family entertainment. The 74-year-old institution, helmed by the Barjatya family, is all set to take its legacy forward with its fourth generation. The next film will be directed by Avnish S. Barjatya. Avnish, the son of veteran director Sooraj R. Barjatya, will be making his directorial and writing debut with Rajshri’s 59th film production.

Playing the lead in Avnish’s maiden film is Rajveer Deol, the younger son of mega star Sunny Deol. After having studied theatre in the UK, Rajveer worked as an Assistant Director. He has been training under the guidance of the illustrious theatre and film director Feroz Abbas Khan and is now all set to make his debut in Rajshri’s next. “Rajveer speaks with his eyes. He has a silent charisma and is tremendously hard-working. The more time we spent talking about the project, the more I began to see Rajveer as the protagonist in my film,” says Avnish.

The film is a coming-of-age love story. Avnish and Rajveer are doing a film very close to their own lives and which deals with the concept of love and relationships in today’s world.

 

The hunt for the heroine opposite Rajveer is still on.

The film is expected to go on floors in July this year and is slated for a release in 2022.

This World NGO Day, CWATY Launches Out Of Home Adoption Movement– OOHA

Urges everyone to come together and support OOHA, a solution based animal welfare movement to co-exist with innocent animals

 

27th February 2021, Mumbai: Today on World NGO day, CWATY, the world’s first digital animal influencer, in association with Nargis Dutt Foundation, Sparsh Trust, Make Earth Green Again MEGA Foundation and Cowin launches the animal welfare movement – OOHA (Out Of Home Adoption) a solution based animal welfare movement for human beings and Indian street animals to coexist with love and care.

 

Pledging their support with CEP (Celebrating Excellence in Philanthropy), a not-for-profit event IP, where senior and upcoming philanthropists are honoured based on their contribution and dedication shown towards making a better tomorrow, the day marked the announcement of the second edition of the event CEP 2.0 as well.

 

Speaking on the occasion, Priya Dutt, a popular social activist and politician, who believes in the cause of humanity for all said “Animal welfare to me is coexistence and respect of all living beings on earth and the environment.” She is the daughter of Legendary actors Sunil and Nargis Dutt, and sister to actor Sanjay Dutt. “Earth is our habitat. In ours, I don't mean only humans. It is also for the animals, the birds and every being living and coexisting.” She is also the co-founder of Nargis Dutt Memorial Charitable Trust (NDMCT) which was started in memory of her mother, Nargis Dutt. “To all the people out there, welfare is not what you do for others in need, but for yourself! It makes you happy and gives you inner peace that you were able to make a difference. So make yourself happy by bringing that change around you,” she added.

 

According to CWATY, Coexistence and equality is the essence of life. “I believe in the concept of ‘Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam’ a philosophy that inculcates an understanding that the world is one family and we are all part of one life energy. We can do this by simply imbibing the practice of sharing and exchanging good energies in every aspect of our lives. For me, animal welfare is a way of life and I aim to raise donations and do good throughout my immortal life by becoming the biggest celebrity influencer for the cause. And to achieve this, I need your support to do the OOHA to coexist because, after all, it is a world for all.” CWATY has been brought to life by Jagrat Desai – a writer – philantropreneur who is also the founder of the CWAT app, a platform that donates 100 per cent of net profits to NGOs of the users’ choice.

 

Maharshi Dave, one of the founding members of Sparsh Trust commented, “I believe in any cause that helps spread Smiles and encourages sharing, be it animals, humans or environment!” He is a renowned activist who has done more than his bit for humanitarian and animal welfare! He adds, “For me, animal welfare is the purest form of sharing. My take on Co-Existence is the realization that we Humans are a creation of Mother Nature, just like millions of other creatures.” He cannot stress enough on the need to respect and realize that our own existence depends on healthy coexistence! “Or as they say, ‘To take less, to share more’!”

 

Philanthropist Anusha Srinivasan Iyer, and founder of Make Earth Green Again MEGA Foundation, an egalitarian Earth organisation that has been working towards leaving green footprints besides taking care of more than 200 rescue animals in their very own Pawsitive Farm Sanctuary as well at other  rescue homes, is excited. "The OOHA movement, the brainchild of Jagrat Desai, is a breath of fresh air needed for our street animals. Such initiatives do not just help animals. They help restore humanity, and that is the much-needed quality in such pandemic moments," she reasons, adding that CEP is again an amazingly empowering initiative.”

 

Alet Viegas is the founder of a Canadian Not-for-profit, Collective Win that delivers social impact projects through strong partnerships with NGOs across the globe. We firmly believe in the need for improved animal welfare & our communities to co-exist with them, especially since animals do not have a voice & typically ignored in our everyday life. Whether you are fighting inequality, eliminating poverty, or protecting our planet - your organization’s impact is vital. The Collective Win Initiative empowers community leaders, locally & globally to create the future they want. We believe creative problem-solving is best when it involves a diverse group of people. That's why we bring leaders together from all walks of life through our community hubs and partnerships. Today, our partnership with CWATY & participation in CEP 2.0 aims to bring attention & act on problems that can deliver impact through OOHA initiatives.

 

In a bid to inspire and urge people to help street animals in and around the neighbourhood, OOHA strives to change the mindset of the people to adopt animal welfare behaviour in their day to day life while CEP strives to bridge the gap between givers and doers.

Farooq Sheikh helped me pass my third year exams: Kavita Krishnamurti at KGAF 2021

Padmashri Legends Pankaj Udhas and Kavita Krishnamurti come together at the virtual edition of Kala Ghoda Arts Festival on Insider.in. The duo have a long association with Kala Ghoda as  they studied together in St. Xavier's College and used to squat at Elphinstone's canteen The Log Cabin, and then spend time at The Rhythm House to get an opportunity to listen to new records at the booths at the milestone location.

Jehangir Art Gallery's Samovar was another favourite hangout and they still remember the cuisine. "Our Kala Ghoda festival started in 1972," reasons Pankaj Udhas. Unfortunately Rhythm House and Samovar don’t exist any more. Kavita Krishnamurti speaks of her senior Pankaj Udhas and how they all looked up to him at college. "He has seen super stardom but it has never gone to his head. It is so difficult to become a star singing ghazals and it is an uphill task."

Pankaj Udhas talks of the big college gang that used to sit below the trees and eat food from the tin roof canteen. "I was No. 1 in terms of bunking. I was a Science student, required 24x7 in class. My Botany Department would overlook canteen. My HOD Mr. Bhole used to see me laughing and the peon used to be sent to call me up," he laughs.

Kavita Krishnamurti speaks, "Farooq Sheikh was part of our college. One day he saw me with a long face. I told him my attendance is less as I do a lot of jingles and programmes, and had to bunk, but only for music. He spoke to the Principal and helped me. In my third year, he took sessions for me and helped me tide through. It was so nice of him," she recalls.

Pankaj Udhas talks of how the dreamers who were part of Sangeet Mandal and Natya Mandal, used to dream together. "Right from Anuradha Paudwal nee Alka Nadkarni, Kavita Krishnamurti, Nitin Ghat, Priti Moti Sagar Ranu Mukherjee (Hemant Kumar's daughter), Natya Mandal had Farooq Sheikh, Smita Patil, Satish Shah who used to oscillate between Natya Mandal and Sangeet Mandal, Dalip Tahil, Shabana Azmi were senior to us, Anil Kapoor was junior to us... We all owe our encouragement to St. Xavier's," he recalls.

The duo also sang some amazing songs, keeping alive the joy of music that transported them in time. "St. Xavier's has positive vibes that helped us all tide us through," expresses Kavita Krishnamurti.

Digital Star Satish Ray's quirky new avatar in 'Pandeyji Zara Sambhalke!'

 

 

Today’s urban life is full of stress and strife. Hence the need for some comic moments. The latest of comic offerings, all set to make you laugh, is Pandeyji Zara Sambhalke... a fast-paced, Hindi, young urban quirky comic take on life that revolves around the life of Manoj Pandey, a young man (Satish Ray).

 

Pandey is in a live-in relationship with his long time girlfriend Deboshi (Dolly Chawla). He has always wanted to marry Deboshi, but finds himself attracted to her childhood friend Ishita (Kanika Khanna). Enter Naresh (Prakash Jais) who is keen on Ishita. This quadrangle leads to a comic turn of events, offering the audience side-splitting entertainment, thanks to Pandeyji's discomfort.

 

Satish Ray, whose characters like Imandaar Sharma, Alpha Pandey and Baban Bhola are sought-after, and his show Imandaar Interview with his unique dialogue delivery style in UP and Bihari accent is extremely popular among the Indian youth, will be seen in an interesting avatar in this series.

 

Produced by Ganu dada and Amol Bhosale of Maitree Films Production, directed by Vinay Sandilya, written by Nikhil Raibole, Bhupendrakumar Nandan, under the banner Cafe Studios, Pandeyji Zara Sambhalke will be aired on MX Player from Feb 17. The poster launch is timed to be released a day after Valentine’s Day when Pandeyji finds himself getting drawn to the friend of his Forever Valentine!

Leslee Lewis Teams up with The ATG - Omar Gooding, Heads For Hollywood!

Leslee Lewis joins hands with The ATG and Omar Gooding to make melody for Hollywood number Entourage. The film, titled Trap City, features this number and, recently, the original soundtrack for Trap City, was partly filmed at one of the best and the most happening night clubs of Mumbai!

Trap City, a Kyyba Film’s realistic musical, starring Brandon Jackson as a young rapper working for a drug kingpin in the face of fame as his song becomes viral! After an attempt on his life, he faces the choice of either going to prison and destroying his career, or testifying against a dangerous crime boss who might not fail the second time! What Brandon Jackson does, decides his future in Trap City! The film is expected to be a musical eye-opener on the abuse of power and how the common man is the real sufferer! 

The driving force behind Kyyba Films, and the producer of Christmas Coupon, Celebrity Crush, Devil’s Night: Dawn of The Nain Rouge and now Trap City, Tel Ganesan has brought together an eclectic blend of International Award-winning music personalities including the ATG, Leslee Lewis and rapper Omar Gooding for Entourage!  

Acclaimed Indian musician Leslee Lewis avers, “Collaborating with new age artists from Hollywood is another learning curve for me! Tel Ganesan is a creative producer in every sense! The ATG has got the groove just about right and the rap verses fill in perfectly! I am excited to be an integral part of Entourage!”

Hollywood based musical new age musical prodigy, The ATG, was seen reflecting on the mood of the track during the filming of the official music video! “Entourage is a contemporary hip-hop and pop fusion song! The song is quite an eclectic array of different musical influences across the globe, both vocally as well as production-wise. Despite the deceptive simplicity, the music production employs an array of interspersed track waves! While being a musically rich record, the music has been produced to be a club banger! Leslee, Omar and I wanted to ensure an unabashedly fun listening experience!

Tel Ganesan adds, “It is a wonderful blend of the Eastern and Western world of music. It is an amazing experience to be working with such talented artists! I remember flying to Mumbai, the heartland of Bollywood and signing Leslee on board for Entourage. It feels like yesterday, and now the song is in post-production! Kyyba Films is looking forward to dazzle you with the upcoming OST!”

Trap City, currently in post-production, is all set for an International release! Keep up with this space for more!

Can water kill Coronavirus?

It can de-grease a kitchen. It can clean windows. It kills athlete’s foot. And now, this elixir is brought to India to replace the toxic chemicals used to kill COVID. Electrolysed Oxidising Water, the patented technology brought to India by the country’s pioneering water technology platform, Amazing Ambrosia Pvt. Ltd. under the name Amazing Hygieia and HygieiaDent, is hailed as ‘El Liquido Milagroso,’ or the miraculous liquid, a substance that scientists aver is powerful enough to kill any lethal virus without harming people or the environment.

Used as a sanitizer for decades in Japan and Russia, Electrolysed Oxidising Water is safe, inexpensive, cuts costs and cuts employee injuries from chemicals. It is prepared by employees on-site and is ten times more effective at killing bacteria than bleach and is available in a convenient powder form in a 3.2 gram sachet that gives up to 10 litres of disinfectant.

Says veteran water technologist Dr. BK Sharma, “Amazing Hygieia is green, saves money and is the right thing to do. In Japan, people spray it on sushi to kill bacteria and replace chlorine with EO water in swimming pools. Doctors treat bedsores with EO water. In Russia, EO water is used to kill microbes in oil wells, while Europeans use it to treat burn victims and have developed treatments for chronic wounds with EO water. It is only a matter of time before our patented technology becomes mainstream in India.”

Entrepreneurs Sidharth Sharma and Rahul C. Mehta add: “When we founded Amazing Ambrosia guided by doyens Dr. BK Sharma and Mahendra N Patel, we wanted to identify India’s water and sanitation problems and solve them by adapting world-class technologies and innovating and manufacturing them locally. We brought in Amazing Hygieia and HygieiaDent for that purpose. The unforeseen pandemic struck then and the need for a new, innovative way to sanitize frequently touched surfaces and aerial disinfection of high footfall places with lowest toxicity and least bio burden became priority.”

Opines Mahendra N Patel: “The timing of the launch of our product was such that it was nothing short of miracle water. Globally, this technology has effectively demonstrated excellent cleaning ability in public places such as malls, metro stations, gyms, restaurants, movie theatres, airports and above that also in dairy, poultry and produce industries, making it ideal for general use in retail food establishments. Replacing conventional cleaners in mop buckets, sprayers, foggers and toxic cleaning chemicals with this electrolyzed oxidising water is a simple solution. In addition, Amazing Hygieia has no odour, nor does it produce foam, making it ideal for use in food production.”

Amazing Hygieia/ HygieiaDent is the only stable EO water available in pH of 5.5 to 6.5 with zero chlorine gasification. Electrolyzed oxidising water is approved and certified by the Ministry of Health, Japan as a food contact product as well as the only product safe for aerial disinfection permitted by INMAS DRDO, USA FDA, US CDC and US EPA. Both Amazing Hygieia and HygieiaDent are winners of the Economic Times Industry Leader Awards for Pathbreaking Technology resulting in Exemplary Contribution To Society. 

Czech Republic Consul General Rashmi Jolly-Gautam Patole's Live Art Fest marks newer beginnings amidst social distancing

Post COVID, Mumbai welcomes Art again, after a 9-month hiatus with Art Adda, a unique event at Jolly Board Towers, I-Think Campus E Wing, Kanjurmarg East, hosted by India's Consul General to Czech Republic Rashmi Jolly and master artist Gautam Patole of Art Desh Foundation, in association with Secular Art Movement. The Art Adda, a one-of-its-kind open air, live Art show, with live canvas paintings, workshops and demonstrations sees the participation of noted artists from different cities of India. Actors Preeti Jhangiani, Pooja Bedi and Angela Krislinzki graced the inaugural ceremony that also witnessed the presence of Rashmi Jolly, Gautam Patole, Dr.Agarwal, Bharat Patel, Anisha Jolly, Rupali Patole among various talented artists. People mingled with each other, shared ideas, interacted with visitors and created great works of Art. There were live demos, workshops, discussions etc while strictly adhering to social distancing norms.  

“These have been trying times for all of us and we do not know when this ordeal will get over. No exhibitions, no galleries and no events... Art Adda will be a welcome break,” says Rashmi Jolly who is also Executive Director and Vice Chairperson of Jolly Board Ltd. and an ardent art lover who has graciously offered a beautifully-landscaped office complex of Jolly Board Ltd. for art activities.  

Adds Gautam Patole, “Artistes like to breathe fresh air. Art Adda signifies that. Creativity cannot be stifled; circumstances cannot rule us. We must overcome the hurdles and move on."

The ambience of Art Adda inspires one to paint... With Art Adda providing canvas, drawing paper, colours, tea/coffee snacks and lunch, all the artists and sculptors bring their brushes and their spirit! 

About 15 artists participated in the inaugural event. Artists from Pune and Hyderabad showcased their skills on canvas. This was perhaps the first time that this kind of live painting work was conducted in the city for the public at large. There will also be workshops, demonstrations, classes et al, in the future. 

Says Gautam Patole, “There are many known artists and art professors who live around the campus. There is an organisation called Secular Movement that is doing commendable work for artists living in this area. Mr Bharat Shelke, working President of Secular Movement was thrilled to know that Jolly Art Adda is offering encouraging facilities to the artists.”

All in all, yours to experience, enjoy and be a part of the art celebrations till 24th December. And come home exhilarated this X-mas eve! 

Star-studded Mid-Day Showbiz Icon Awards at Grand Hyatt, Mumbai

The Mid- Day Showbiz Icon Awards saw veterans Dharmendra and Bappi Lahiri bag the awards for their contribution of 60 years and 50 years to the Indian film industry. While Vivek Oberoi bagged the Iconic Actor Award,

Ranvir Shorey won The Most Versatile Actor Award with presence across platforms and media, Shreyas Talpade was awarded for his Contribution to Theatre and Cinema, Nawazuddin Siddiqui bagged the Best Actor Award for Raat Akeli Hai, Kunal Khemu bagged the Best Actor in Negative Role for Malang, Dino Morea won Iconic Health & Fitness Ambassador 2020, Anupria Goenka won Best Breakthrough Female Performance of 2020  and Nandini Viswanathan of Naarad PR and Image Strategists bagged the Iconic Brand Custodian Award among many others. Director Anil Sharma,

Sunny Leone accompanied by actor- musician husband Daniel Weber bagged awards as well. The esteemed glitterati included besides the awardees,  Suneel Darshan, Leslee Lewis, Raju Singh, Rahul Shukla,  Kavya Jones, Writer Director Anusha Srinivasan Iyer, Preeti Soni, Sunny Waghchoure, Sachin Bhau Ahir among many others.

All in all a simple, sophisticated event with minimal guests, yet a star-studded one that made its mark.

Kamala Harris’s rise sends a message of hope to young girls of colour and every immigrant in the US: Tel K Ganesan

US State Senator, politician, lawyer and Vice-Presidential running mate Kamala Devi Harris has scripted history by being the first Indian-American or African-American woman to be appointed as the Vice-Presidential running mate. 

It is a known fact that Kamala Harris has a huge support base in the Indian-American community. Indian-born Hollywood producer, philanthropist and serial entrepreneur Tel K Ganesan is excited at the power push for the senator as it “sends a message of hope to young girls of colour, and any immigrant, for that matter.”

Ganesan, who met Harris at Detroit, Michigan during her political run for the primary race of the Democratic presidential ticket, avers that Harris is “high energy, positive, upbeat and a bubbly person.” Ganesan had an instant connect with her. “We shared wonderful, happy moments. She is very friendly. It is much like talking to a friendly neighbour.” Both Ganesan and Harris’s mother Shyamala Gopalan hail from Chennai. “We very briefly spoke in Tamil – vanakkam and nandri. We did talk about sambar,” he grins. 

Though Harris considers herself black, she has also spoken of her Indian roots. Harris has worked in international development around the world and return to live in villages throughout India in the mid-90s. Her matrilineal family of strong South Indian women has always been her inspiration. Her mother is a Tamilian from Chennai, and had moved to the US for higher studies. Her father is Donald Harris, of Jamaican descent. Ganesan is very proud of Harris’s achievement. “As an immigrant, it is a great inspiration. She already has a track record of breaking barriers. She started off as the first person of color in the office of the district attorney in San Francisco as a tough prosecutor and later as California Attorney General before winning the Senate seat four years ago. Harris is also the first person of Indian descent to ever get on the presidential ticket. Harris amassed more than $35 million over 11 months despite challenges that black women candidates face in raising money.  If the Biden-Harris ticket wins, Harris will be the highest-ranking female US official in the country’s 244-year history. And it is not just that, Biden who would be 78 if he wins, might only serve a single four-year term, instantly making Harris a leading 2024 Democratic Presidential contender. She serves on several high-profile committees in the Senate including the Intelligence Committee and the Judiciary Committee.”

Ganesan believes that such a historic move is only possible in a country like the United States. "Hope fuels life and hope fuels opportunities. This will address the bottom-line issue of under-representation of women and minorities on US public company boards and will match the changing demographics we are experiencing in the country today."

Statistics reveal that 42% of women in the US have faced gender discrimination at work. Even in the military, women represent 16% of the enlisted forces and 19% of the office corps. "Kamala Harris’s rise opens up the dream of women and minorities sharing the same power, privileges, rights and opportunities as the privileged and is a giant stride for women in politics. India and Pakistan have had women in political power, but for the US, this is a first. A person born of immigrant parents running for the second highest position in the land, shows us the impossible is possible. It reinforces that the American Dream is still alive and well.”

CINTAA STATEMENT

The Indian Film Industry  which has been in existence for more than a century is a land of opportunity to  thousands of people who have chosen to embark on this career path to take care of their livelihood and accomplish their missions in life.

The Media & the Entertainment Industry has always been a significant  contributor to the economy, and also the served the Nation's interests as its cultural ambassadors.

In times of national crisis and natural calamities, the Media Fraternity has solidly supported the endeavours of the Government, to help by their resources and public influence. 

Actors in particular are the face of the Industry who have enthralled the audiences everwhere with their talent; many are academically accomplished and have chosen this career to satisfy their creative passion. Many have trained themselves and dedicated their lives in pursuit of creative excellence.

Recently, Film Industry in general and actors in particular have been in the Eye of a Storm of invasive media scrutiny, not all of it justified, and in some sections of the Press, motivated for reasons other than fair news reporting. 

However, one feature that has emerged out of this has been the unfortunate reality of the spread of use of banned drugs, in society at large and Film Industry in particular. 

We, Cine & TV Artists association (CINTAA) take this issue very seriously. We simply say NO TO DRUGS.

As an association, we very strongly rebuke anyone involved in consumption of drugs , no matter the name and fame such an individual  enjoys in our fraternity and society. We acknowledge the power and influence many of our Industry have over the gullible minds of the young and we believe that their actions, whether in privacy of their own homes or otherwise, have a great bearing on society at large; they are Role Models for the youth and thus have more than reasonable responsibility  for exemplary conduct..

While we do advocate a strict punishment to those who are proved guilty, our endeavor is always to make the whole system free of drugs and its adverse repercussions and to have a clean working arena for existing and aspiring actors. We would support any individual or institution who furthers this cause. 

In conclusion:  SAY NO TO DRUGS AND YES TO LIFE.

 

Executive Committee

CINTAA 

 

NIO: Creating a Vision of Community Focus

 

We all are facing unprecedented times these days of COVID-19 pandemic. It is during these situations that we all get a glimpse of how people stand up to each other to help them and try to ease out the situation. Like doctors and paramedics who have been working tirelessly, selflessly for the past several months in fighting this pandemic, we also have seen our police force working endlessly, be it for law and order, or to prevent panic situations or sometimes enforcing safety measures for the public at large!

National Institute of Ophthalmology, one of Pune’s oldest eye institutes celebrated its 27th       Foundation Day on 5th of September.  An eye institute which is committed to serving the poor and needy, thought it befitting that these heroes of today’s times be recognized in some way or the other.

With Dr. Shreekant Kelkar, and Mrs. Aruna Kelkar at the helm, Dr. Aditya Kelkar and Dr. Jai Kelkar, and NIO family distributed Safety Gears consisting of Dust Free Goggles for Eye Protection, Three-layer Reusable Masks and Reflective Safety Jackets to the Pune Traffic Police and PMC Department Employees.  Team NIO covered Traffic Police stations in the vicinity of Chaturshrungi, Deccan gymkhana, Shivaji Nagar and Kothrud.

National Institute of Ophthalmology (NIO) is one of the first JCI Accredited (Joint Commission International) and NABH Accredited Eye Care Hospital in Pune.  NIO Super Specialty Eye Care is known for its ultra-modern facilities, subspecialty clinics, state of the art operation theatres equipped with the ARTEVO  3D surgery platform, FEMTOLASER assisted cataract surgery with the Catalyst system. IntraLase for glasses removal, well integrated diagnostics, imaging and laser systems, daycare recovery suites, educational and research activities with clinical expertise and sophistication of diagnostic and treatment procedures. From General Ophthalmology to super specialty clinics like Cataract Department, Cornea Department, Retina Department, Pediatric Ophthalmology Department, Glaucoma and Neuro Ophthalmology Department, Refractive Surgery Department and Oculoplasty, NIO caters to “Every Why in Your Eye”

National Institute of Ophthalmology (NIO) delivers high quality eye care services by annually screening more than 75,000 out-patients and performing more than 60,000 successful eye surgeries

NIO's CSR wing also runs a regular Charitable OPD in designated rural areas and economically backward patients are treated at concessional rate or even free of cost.

We hope to continue serving the society and on this 27th year of foundation, we thank all our patients and well-wishers for their patronage and pray almighty to keep everyone safe