The Unity Award Presented to The Rt. Hon. Dame Priti Patel DBE MP by His Excellency Vikram Doraiswami for her commitment to unity and support for Sardar Patel’s values.
The Sardar Patel Memorial Society UK, in collaboration with the High Commission of India, celebrated Rashtriya Ekta Diwas and the 150th Birth Anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel at the High Commission of India in London.
The gathering was a full house, drawing dignitaries and attendees together to honour Sardar Patel’s legacy as a founding father of a unified India.
Shadow Foreign Secretary Priti Patel DBE MP delivered the keynote speech highlighting Sardar Patel’s ideals of unity, integrity, and resilience. She highlighted the relevance of Sardar Patel’s vision in today’s world, encouraging everyone to embrace harmony and uphold the spirit of unity that he championed.
Lord Rami Ranger FRSA, Chairman of the Sardar Patel Memorial Society UK
Lord Rami Ranger FRSA, Chairman of the Sardar Patel Memorial Society UK, addressing the guests, emphasised the critical importance of unity and the lasting influence of Sardar Patel’s life and legacy. His speech reminded attendees of Sardar Patel’s role in shaping a united India and urged everyone to carry forward the message of unity and harmony.
The event was further enriched by the presence and remarks of Vikram Doraiswami, the High Commissioner of India to the UK. He highlighted Sardar Patel’s significance in India’s history and shared the High Commission’s commitment to celebrating the 150th Birth Anniversary of Sardar Patel throughout the year.
The Rt Hon Dame Priti Patel DBE MP, Shadow Foreign Secretary
The commemoration received messages from Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, and Home Minister Amit Shah, adding to the event’s prestige and underscoring the global reverence for Sardar Patel’s contributions to India and the world.
The celebration concluded with the presentation of the Unity Award to Dame Priti Patel by High Commissioner Doraiswami. This special recognition honoured Dame Priti Patel’s commitment to unity and support for Sardar Patel’s values.
His Excellency Vikram Doraiswami, High Commissioner of India
The Executive Committee members of the Sardar Patel Memorial Society UK – CB Patel, Jitu Bhai Patel, Sumant Rai Desai, Deepak Patel, Vin Vara and Hirdesh Gupta – put in tremendous effort to make this event a great success. Thanks to their dedication, we were able to gather a wonderful audience to celebrate the 150th anniversary of the Iron Man of India, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel.
Krishna Pujara, Secretary General of the Sardar Patel Memorial Society UK, expressed deep gratitude for the overwhelming support shown by attendees, dignitaries, and partners. “We are honoured to commemorate Sardar Patel’s legacy here in the UK and to witness such enthusiasm for his ideals. This celebration is a testament to the enduring impact of his vision for unity and progress.”
Krishna Pujara, Secretary General of the Sardar Patel Memorial Society UK
The event concluded with a renewed commitment to honouring Sardar Patel’s ideals, with plans to continue the 150th birth anniversary celebrations in the months to come.
The commemoration received messages from The Prime Minister of India, Shri Narendra Modi, and Home Minister, Shri Amit Shah.The commemoration received messages from The Prime Minister of India, Shri Narendra Modi, and Home Minister, Shri Amit Shah.
The event marks 52nd anniversary of the World Heritage Convention (Convention for the Protection of the World Cultural and Natural Heritage)…reports Asian Lite News
An entrancing event marking the World Heritage Week was organised by Sanskruti Centre for Cultural Excellence at the House of Lords recently. Hosted by Baroness Verma, the event titled Cultural Landscape and Understanding Diversity: SETU had Army Officers, poets, doctors, students, several members of the community, and Diplomats Minister-Counsellor Ruslan Karabulov and First Secretary (Trade) Ms. Yvone Zulu in attendance.
Baroness Verma rendering opening words at SETU
In her opening speech, Baroness Verma highlighted the importance on Cultural Diversity in building stronger societies and enhancing mutual understanding. She commended Sanskruti Centre for the consistent efforts in trying to preserve aspects of invaluable intangible heritage of India and South Asia.
Her Excellency High Commissioner of Zambia Ms Macenje Mazoka and Ambassador of Kazakhstan His Excellency Magzhan Ilyassov have eloquently spoken on cultural diversity in their countries, and appreciated Sustainable Goals and culture dimension.
H.E. High Commissioner of Zambia Ms Mazoka and Parliamentary Host Baroness Verma
Major Munish Chauhan from British Army spoke on Diversity, Enrichment and Leadership. Diverse art forms were presented on the occasion that offered visual delight, aiming to increase awareness about different cultures and traditions.
Young performers Adithi Mote, Ayati Yuvaraj, Kaavya Rapatwar and Swechaa Manikireddy presented the invocation. This was followed by a short historical account on Afro-Indian Siddi community, with the dance presented by Sree Lalitha Kotla. Kuchipudi by Sanvika Kommineni, Kummi by Lakshmi Aveen, Mohiniattam by Manju Sunil, Limba dance of Sierra Leone by Cecilia Greene and Bharatanatyam dance on flowers by Ragasudha Vinjamuri have all captivated the attendees. BK Jaimini Patel of Brahma Kumaris UK rendered a Peace message and led a short meditation round.
H.E. Ambassador Magzhan Ilyassov speaking at the House of Lords event
Vote of Thanks by Ragasudha Vinjamuri underscored the collective responsibility of parents in building a legion of next generation cultural ambassadors, fostering sense of pride and propagating art & heritage for posterity.
The event marks 52nd anniversary of the World Heritage Convention (Convention for the Protection of the World Cultural and Natural Heritage).
Invocation by young cultural ambassadors of SanskrutiClassical Dances of IndiaClassical Dance PresentationFolk Dances of IndiaMajor Munish Chauhan from British Army speaking on Cultural DiversityEvent on Cultural Landscape and Understanding Diversity- SETU
HFE Team and Spiritual Advisors with Ambassadors and Dignitaries at HFE Diwali at Antwerpen Townhall
Diwali, the vibrant festival was celebrated by Hindu Forum of Europe at the prestigious Antwerp City Hall Stadhuis, in the presence of Their Excellencies Ambassadors of India, Suriname and Sri Lanka, Vice Mayor of Antwerp Koen Kennis, Mayor of Wilrijk Kristof Bossuyt, Stijn De Rooster- Advisor to Mayor Bart De Wever, Honorary Consul General of India for the Flemish provinces Dirk Dielen, among other dignitaries.
Spiritual Advisors of HFE Swami Amarananda and Swami Rameshwarananda Giri have given their messages while Shantipath was rendered by Vaidyanathji. President of HFE Dr Lakshmi Vyas presented the welcome note.
His Excellency Gilbert van Lierop- Ambassador of Suriname, His Excellency Chandana Weerasena- Ambassador of Sri Lanka, His Excellency Saurabh Kumar- Ambassador of India to Belgium and European Union, Vice Mayor of Antwerp Koen Kennis have all spoken on the occasion.
Their Excellencies Ambassadors of India, Suriname and Sri Lanka to Belgium
A beautiful classical dance depicting the victory of good over evil was presented by Ragasudha Vinjamuri, song and Tabla rendition were presented by Mehikaa Golchha, Naisha Sanghvi and Sattar Khan, and a Diwali dance was presented by Araddhya Golchha. BK Jaimini Patel has presented peace message for Diwali followed by Vote of Thanks by the President, where contributions of the team members Manik Paul, Arun Jogani, Ragasudha Vinjamuri to the event were acknowledged, including volunteers who helped in organising the program.
Copies of Diwali Magazine of HFE were given out to all attendees, followed by delicious dinner. Attendees have come from different parts of Belgium, UK, and Europe.
Attendees at HFE Diwali at Antwerpen City Hall 2024
Hindu Forum of Europe with its members in Austria, Germany, Holland, Italy, Luxembourg, Portugal, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland and the UK works for peace & harmony and raising understanding of Sanatana Dharma and Hindus in Europe.
It lobbies and liaises with the European Parliament and European Commission, and participates in activities of ECRL- European Council of Religious Leaders, Religion for Peace and in Inter-Faith and Inter-Cultural dialogues.
President Lakshmi Vyas felicitationg the Vice MayorCultural Program at Diwali event at Antwerpen City HallTeam with Vice Mayor of Antwerpen_Diwali 2024 HFE
Ekata Muscat, has come a long way from its first journey started in the year 2018 with an ambitious plan of promoting rich tradition of Indian classical art forms, reports Vinod Raghavan
MUSCAT: It will be a fusion of Indian classical music – Carnatic and the Hindustani sangeet at the three-day festival of “Sangeethotsav 2024” from October 24 – 26 organised by Ekata Muscat, in the Sultanate of Oman.
On all the three days, renowned artistes ranging from the Carnatic sangeet to Hindustani sangeet gharana of India, will be mesmerizing the music lovers at the spacious auditorium of College of Banking and Financial Studies in Bousher, Muscat.
Detailing out the three day musical event, Girish Nair, Media Coordinator, said at the press meet, on the first day of the event, “Sangeethotsav 2024 “ would kick off with a live Vocal concert by Vasudha Ravi, an acclaimed Carnatic musician and a well-known playback singer in Chennai.
On the second day i.e 25th October, the Indian Ambassador Amit Narang will be the Chief guest witnessing “Laya Vinyasam” – a musical fusion with an exquisite combination of mridangam, violin, ghatam, mukharshangh, and ghanchira, creating a vibrant interplay of rhythm and melody.
On the third day, Hindustani concert will showcase the vocal talents of Yash Sanjay Devle, from the Gwalior Gharana of Madhya Pradesh from Central India. He will be accompanied by Zuber Shaikh on sitar, Dwijj Gandharva on tabla and Vineeth Pandit on harmonium, this would be an unforgettable evening of soulful music and rich cultural heritage, reveals Babita Shyam, Joint Coordinator of Ekata.
Since its inception, Ekata Muscat, has been honoring the prestigious “Sangeetha Sudha Nidhi” Award to prominent musicians residing in India and Oman, who have contributed throughout their career to the music world. This year the award would be presented to Thichur Surendran, who has been performing and teaching Panchavadyam for the last 30+ years in Oman, revealed Muralikrishnan Nair, General Secretary of Ekata.
Ekata Muscat started its journey in the year 2018 with an ambitious plan of promoting rich tradition of Indian classical art forms, and making all efforts to preserve the cultural heritage and identity and move it on to the next generation so that it can continue to flourish for many more generations, reminded Babita, who is also a music teacher in Muscat.
Since its debut performance, in October 2018, “Sangeethotsav” a Carnatic Musical Concert which is the Signature Programme of Ekata has been able to showcase and assimilate more than 250 artists and maestros from different regions of India, Oman, and other GCC countries, said Manoj M N, Joint Secretary.
Apart from Sangeethothsav held in the evenings, during the day time on October 24-25, “Sageetharchana”, from 9:30am – 4:00pm, of 25th and 26th we would be having the “Sangeetharchana 2024”, will showcase classical musical talents of Oman by providing a vibrant stage for hundreds of artists to perform, revealed Babita.
This grand celebration of music features a diverse array of performances, highlighting both established and emerging talents from the region. With its focus on fostering creativity and promoting cultural exchange, Sangeetharchana has become a significant event in the local artistic landscape, drawing audiences and participants alike. The festival not only celebrates the rich musical heritage of Oman but also encourages collaboration and community among musicians, making it a memorable experience for all involved, she said.
Totalee Halal Set to Launch Innovative Halal Food Delivery App at GPU Festival with renowned actor Imran Abbas
The Global Peace and Unity (GPU) Festival, attended by over 40,000 people, will serve as the stage for Totalee Halal’s highly anticipated innovative Halal Food Delivery App launch on October 19th at Excel, London. Renowned actor and model Imran Abbas will be making a special appearance to officially launch the app at 4 PM. Attendees are invited to join us at our stall no C14, where they can experience the convenience of Totalee Halal firsthand.
To make the experience even more special, Totalee Halal is offering 500 free tickets to GPU for both consumers and merchants. Additionally, five lucky winners will have the exclusive opportunity to meet and greet Imran Abbas in person.
“Empowering Women as Entrepreneurs in Local Communities,” will also be highlighted at the event. This initiative focuses on supporting women in starting their home-based food businesses, offering grants, marketing support, and a platform to sell their family recipes. Totalee Halal is proud to collaborate with Shahid Afridi Foundation, a UK charity, to further this mission.
Totalee Halal is an innovative Halal food delivery platform dedicated to providing consumers with Halal Food, Groceries and Fresh Meat at the click of a button. The app connects you to restaurants, supermarkets, butchers, bakeries, and more, assuring that all meals and groceries delivered through our platform are 100% halal, free from contamination, and delicious.
Totalee Halal, an innovative food delivery app that caters to our customers’ discerning halal tastes. From restaurants and supermarkets to butchers, bakeries, and ice cream parlours, we make good quality—and delectable—halal dishes available at the click of a button. Based in London, Totalee Halal traverses beyond food delivery to marry purity, satisfaction, and culture for our valued customers.
Totalee Halal guarantee that 100% of the food and groceries delivered through the platform are Halal, delicious, and free from contamination.
Tupperware of Ashes starring Meera Syal OBE has world premiered at the Dorfman theatre at National Theatre London this autumn. A Review by columnist Riccha Grrover for Asian Lite International
The production is a vivid and heart-breaking family drama about life, immigration and the Indian spiritual cycle of death and rebirth. It is a compelling play that delves into the intricate tapestry of family and cultural identity; a poignant exploration of grief, memory, and narrative that centres around a South Asian family navigating this, intertwining humor and sorrow to create a deeply resonant experience.
The characters are vividly portrayed, each representing different facets of the immigrant experience. The matriarch, grappling with her role and expectations, serves as a powerful anchor for the story. Her interactions with her children reveal the generational tensions between preserving heritage and embracing modernity. The siblings’ differing responses to their shared loss highlight the complexities of familial bonds, making the audience reflect on their own relationships.
An ambitious Michelin-Star chef, Queenie is used to having the last word. But when her children notice gaps in her memory and her grip on reality loosening, they are faced with an impossible choice. As Raj, Gopal and Kamala battle to reconcile their life-long duty to their mother, the ramifications of their decision take on a heartbreaking permanence.
The cast includes Raj Bajaj, Natalie Dew, Marc Elliott, Stephen Fewell, Shobna Gulati, Avita Jay, Meera Syal and Zubin Varla.
The creative team, led by director Pooja Ghai (Artistic Director of Tamasha Theatre Company) includes set and costume designer Rosa Maggiora, lighting designer Matt Haskins, composer Nitin Sawhney, sound designer Elena Peña, illusions director and designer John Bulleid, movement director Anjali Mehra, fight and intimacy directors Rachel Bown-Williams and Ruth Cooper-Brown of Rc-Annie Ltd, casting director Naomi Downham, music associate David Shrubsole, dialect coach Hazel Holder and staff director Layla Madanat.
Syal’s sharp, insightful dialogue balances poignant moments with wit, keeping the audience engaged. The use of everyday objects, like Tupperware, as symbols of both practicality and emotional baggage adds depth to the narrative, suggesting how we contain our memories and emotions.
The lighting, set design, sound effects and costumes are on point. The staging is effective, with a minimalistic set that allows the characters’ emotions to take center stage. The lighting and sound design enhance the atmosphere, subtly reflecting the characters’ internal struggles.
Zubin Varla (Ameet)
Overall, “Tupperware of Ashes” is a thought-provoking piece that invites reflection on how we honor those we’ve lost while navigating our identities. Its blend of humor and heart makes it a touching exploration of family, making it a standout work in contemporary theatre. This play serves as a reminder of the importance of connection and the complex legacies we inherit. It is a hard-hitting and mind-blowing production all at once, a heart wrenching and an immersive experience.
The actors deliver an incredible performance in this intense and moving play where all actors especially Meera Syal OBE is truly in top form! It is inspiring to see a South Asian cultural narrative take centre stage, raising the banner for diversity in theatre in London. This is a must-watch production! Highly Recommended. This play is on until 16 November 2024.
Meera Syal (Queenie)Meera Syal (Queenie)Meera Syal (Queenie)Meera Syal (Queenie)Zubin Varla (Ameet) and Meera Syal (Queenie)Raj Bajaj (Raj) and Meera Syal (Queenie)Meera Syal (Queenie) and Avita Jay (Jamila) Natalie Dew (Kamala) and Meera Syal Stephen Fewell (Pavel) and Meera Syal (Queenie) Meera Syal (Queenie) and Shobna Gulati (Indrani) Zubin Varla (Ameet), Meera Syal (Queenie) and Shobna Gulati (Indrani) Zubin Varla (Ameet), Meera Syal (Queenie) and Shobna Gulati (Indrani)
Celebrate the Hindu festival of lights in the exquisite setting of InterContinental London Park Lane at a spectacular one-night-only Diwali dinner. Join us on Thursday, 24th October, Executive Chef Lalit Kumar will collaborate with MasterChef: The Professionals semi-finalist Arbinder Singh Dugal to present an exquisite five-course Indian tasting menu, complete with optional wine pairings. A preview feature by FnB columnist Riccha Grrover for Asian lite International.
Experience a captivating blend of traditional Indian spices and modern culinary techniques with festival dishes like Masala dahi panna cotta paired with Bhalla dressed chutney and potato Idiyappam; Kashmiri chilli rump of lamb and lamb shoulder; or Malai Paneer Pie, all will be complemented by black garlic chutney, mint espuma, shiitake yakhni, and a morel and saffron pulao. For dessert, discerning diners will get to indulge in aamras and churan sorbet, elegantly coated with mukhwas dust. The evening will also include a special meet and greet with the esteemed chefs.
Join them for a memorable Diwali celebration at InterContinental London Park Lane, where luxury will meet tradition. You will get to Indulge in a vibrant evening filled with exquisite cuisine, inspiring connections, and the joyous spirit of the festival of lights. This is an opportunity to create lasting memories in an enchanting atmosphere that honors the essence of Diwali. Don’t miss this chance to celebrate with them and experience the warmth and richness of this cherished occasion of Diwali.
Dine in flavourful style this Diwali at InterContinental London Park Lane, taking place on 24th October, with bookings available now for tables between 6pm – 10pm. Enjoy the five-course dinner for £95 per person, or £125 with wines. Book your ticket now at https://www.eventbrite.com/e/diwali-tasting-menu-tickets- 1008525536027
About InterContinental London Park Lane
Situated at one of the capital’s most prestigious addresses, InterContinental London Park Lane presents modern luxury in the heart of Mayfair.
Taj 51 Buckingham Gate Suites and Residences and St. James’ Court, A Taj Hotel, warmly invite everyone to join in the celebration of Diwali, India’s most cherished festival. This year, from Thursday, 31st October, to Friday, 1st November, guests are welcome to partake in a celebration that represents the victory of light, goodness, and knowledge over darkness. With vibrant decorations, festive meals, and the lighting of oil lamps (diyas), Diwali fosters community spirit and joy, marking a time of prosperity and new beginnings. A feature by columnist Riccha Grrover for Asian Lite International.
Taj 51 Buckingham Gate Suites and Residences and St. James’ Court, A Taj Hotel, invite you to immerse yourself in the spirit of Diwali with their exclusive offerings. Enjoy exquisite culinary experiences, luxurious accommodations, and thoughtfully curated hampers designed to make your celebration truly unforgettable. Relax in beautifully decorated spaces adorned with radiant lights and join them in honoring this luminous occasion.
DIWALI DINING Experience – THALIS from different regions
At TH@51, a specially curated selection of authentic Indian regional thalis will be available, allowing diners to savour the diverse flavours of India in a traditional setting. From aromatic curries to delectable desserts, each thali represents a different region’s culinary heritage. North Indian Thali features classics like Murgh Tikka Makhanwala and Dal Makhani, paired with butter naan and cumin-scented rice. The West Indian Thali includes the rich flavours of Murgh Tariwala and Undhiyu, complemented by Methi Thepla and Kabuli Pulao; For a Southern twist, the South Indian Thali offers dishes such as Erachi Milagu Roast and Kozhi Kulambu, served with Tamarind rice and Malabari bread; a Satvik Bhojan Thali is also available and includes the selection Aloo Dum Benarasi, Tawa Roti, Dahi Bhalla, and more.
Each thali is accompanied by papad, pickles, and a selection of Indian desserts like Gulab Jamun and Kesari Bhath. These speciality Thalis are available every day from 14th October until 12th November 2024.
INDIA UNVEILED BRUNCH
Guests can also enjoy the India Unveiled Weekend Brunchfrom TH@51, a brand-new culinary experience where Indian flavours meet brunch classics. The menu consists of Kheema Per Eedu, a Persian-inspired dish with lamb mince and eggs, and Goan Chorizo Pulao, a spicy rice dish topped with a fried egg. Guests can choose to pair these dishes with bottomless beverages, including Cobra Beer, Bellini, and signature cocktails like Masala 51, an Indian-inspired cocktail for two. For dessert, enjoy innovative options like Gulab Jamun Cheesecake and Masala Chai Crème Brulé. Indian Unveiled Weekend Brunch is available Saturday and Sunday from 12:30 until 4pm each weekend from 12th October until 24thNovember.
RADIANT DIWALI COCKTAILS
Celebrate Diwali with their exclusive festive cocktails at TH@51 and Hamptons Bar, inspired by vibrant Indian flavours. Sip on the indulgent Rasa Royale, the rich East India Reserve, the refreshing Konkan Breeze, or the bold Delhi Heart. Raise a glass and make your Diwali celebration truly memorable.
INDIAN JASMINE AFTERNOON TEA
Delight in the Indian Jasmine Afternoon Tea, inspired by rich Indian traditions and offering an innovative twist on the classic British afternoon tea. Available Thursday – Sunday at Kona Restaurant.
EXCLUSIVE HAMPERS AND GIFTING OFFERINGS
Explore the tradition of Diwali gifting with their exclusive hampers. Each one captures the essence of the festival, featuring handmade diyas and gourmet delicacies such as indulgent cashews and homemade sweets.
RADIANT DIWALI STAYS
This Diwali, guests can stay and celebrate with 15% off on accommodation with complimentary breakfast. Additionally, enjoy 10% off at select restaurants, where you can dine their Diwali-themed Indian Thali at TH@51. On November 1st there will be a fireworks display in the courtyard to celebrate Diwali. Witness the breathtaking sparkles and become part of the festive excitement!
DIWALI ON THE SQUARE
Taj 51 Buckingham Gate Suites and Residences will be the hospitality partner for Diwali on the Square again this year. Celebrate Diwali on 27th October at Trafalgar Square for this special festival of lights.
At Taj 51 Buckingham Gate Suites and Residences and St. James’ Court, A Taj Hotel, Radiant Diwali offerings will be available 12th October until 14th November inclusive.
Taj 51 Buckingham Gate, Suites and Residences
Five-star heritage hotel perfectly positioned close to Buckingham Palace and Mayfair and just a stroll from London’s greatest landmarks. Taj 51 Buckingham Gate, Suites and Residences is unlike any other 5-star luxury hotel in London. For regular and occasional visitors to the Capital of capitals, the hotel offers a wider choice of suites and residences than any other in London, providing guests with more space and flexibility to accommodate families, state delegations or executives travelling on business.
St. James’ Court London, A Taj Hotel
St. James’ Court, A Taj Hotel, London is a discreet Victorian masterpiece, typifying the concealed charm of one of Britain’s finest luxury hotels. Crisp and elegant, with the signature Taj warmth, St. James’ Court strives to make each visit more pleasurable and memorable. Located in central London SW1, the hotel is footsteps from Buckingham Palace and St. James’ Park, perfectly positioned to explore London, for business or pleasure. With four restaurants, including Michelin-starred Quilon, the award-winning afternoon tea restaurant Kona, The Hamptons Bar and TH@51 restaurant, Bar and Courtyard as well as conference rooms and banqueting suites, St. James’ Court Hotel is sure to be your favourite London hotel.
The official makers took to their X account (formerly known as Twitter) and shared a series of pictures with ensemble cast and crew members….reports Asian Lite News
Thalapathy Vijay’s upcoming film, tentatively titled ‘Thalapathy 69’ commenced with a traditional puja ceremony on October 4, 2024.
The official makers took to their X account (formerly known as Twitter) and shared a series of pictures with ensemble cast and crew members.
The makers wrote a caption, “Pictures layum seri adha paathutu iruka unga face layum seri Happy Smiles irukunu we know #Thalapathy69Poojai stills SET 1 idhoo. Updates inum mudiyala.. SET 2 incoming”.
(I know that there are happy smiles by adding pictures and looking at your boss. Updates are still not complete… Set 2 Incoming”.)
The event brought together an impressive ensemble of cast and crew, including Thalapathy Vijay, Bollywood actor Bobby Deol, and Pooja Hegde. Following this auspicious start on the second day of Navratri, filming is set to begin tomorrow leads the next step for Thalapathy Vijay’s historic project.
In addition to the lead actors, the film boasts a stellar cast that includes renowned filmmaker-actor Gautham Vasudev Menon, National Award-winning actress Priyamani, veteran actor Prakash Raj, and ‘Premalu’ fame actor Mamitha Baiju.
The film is helmed by ‘Theeran Adhigaaram Ondru’ fame director H. Vinoth with his band of brothers that includes cinematographer Sathyan Sooryan, editor Pradeep E Ragav, action choreographer Anlarasu, art director Selva Kumar, and costume designer Pallavi Singh.
The film also marks the dynamic collaboration between the director and the music composer as it will be helmed by music sensation Anirudh Ravichander, best known for his power-packed work in films like, ‘Master’, ‘Kaththi’, ‘Jailer’, ‘Leo’ and others.
‘Thalapathy 69’ will be bankrolled by Venkat K. Narayana under the banner of KVN Productions. The film will be co-produced by Jagadish Palanisamy and Lohith N. K as well.
The ‘Mersal’ fame actor’s recently released ‘The Greatest of All Time’ is currently available for streaming on Netflix. The film helmed by Venkat Prabhu also features Sneha, Meenakshi Chaudhary, Prabhu Deva, Prashanth, Mohan, Ajmal Ameer, Yogi Babu and Premgi Amaren in pivotal roles.
The action-thriller was bankrolled by Kalapathi S. Aghoram, Kalapathi S. Ganesh and Kalapathi S. Suresh under the banner of AGS Entertainment.
Vivek Oberoi’s his first film “Company” in Hindi was with Mohanlal and after nearly two decades he debuted in a Malayalam film “Lucifer” with Lalettan, writesVinod Raghavan
MUSCAT : Bollywood actor Vivek Oberoi, was moved by the young dance performers of Delicious Academy for Dance and The Kings United, which took him back to the memory lanes of his younger days as a child dancer who performed way back in the 80s in Muscat.
The “Company” actor, who was in Muscat as Chief Guest for the closing ceremony of the first ever European Union Film Festival, organized by the French Embassy in Oman in collaboration with the IFFO, minutely watched the steps on Bollywood numbers, reminded him his earlier days as a child dancer who performed on stage in the capital city of Oman.
Remembering the bygone era, “Saathiya” fame actor recalled that he first performed in the capital city of Oman and revealed, that, “I used to practice a lot and work very hard on stage and also used to assist my seniors at the backstage for which we used to get TA, DA for our performance, which I saved and used to go to Ruwi and do shopping.”
“I used to stroll in Ruwi and do small shoppings of buying chocolates and fancy items, (those days foreign made goods were in great demand back home), reveals the “Krrish” actor.
In a Tete with Journalist Anirban Ray
“The Shootout at Lokhandwala”, actor had special words for Omani singer, Jihad Al Raisi, and added, that nowadays, the word Jihad is wrongly interpreted, but here is the singer Jihad from Oman, who spreads love and brotherhood. He loved Oman and said Omanis are peace loving people and known for their hospitality.
In his recent south Indian Malayalam film “Lucifer” he played a villain’s character, was all praise for the veteran Malayalam actor Mohanlal, addressing him as Lalettan (Big Brother), he said, “coincidentally my debut film “Company” in Hindi was with with the great actor and now my first Malayalam film “Lucifer” is also with Lalettan.
The ardent devotee of “Lord Ayappa” took questions from the audience and replied elegantly. He also had kind words for the host of the evening Piya Pawani, who is a model and also acted in a South Indian Tamil film and short films viz. “The Broken Nest”, “Art That Hurts” amongst them in Oman.
