Category: Events

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Asia News Events Lite Blogs

Light of Yee Peng Shines in San Patong

Visitors are encouraged to dress up in formal attire, preferably white to complement the solemnity of the festival…reports Asian Lite News

The Lantern Festival of Thailand, colloquially known as the Yi Peng Lantern Festival, is one of the most popular and eye-catching events in Southeast Asia. It is celebrated in November when the full moon of the twelfth month the Thai lunar year appears in full glory. The festival symbolises the release of negative vibrations and misfortunes of the preceding year and bids for a more prosperous time ahead. Additionally, it marks the end of monsoons and the arrival of the winter season.

On the day of festivity, tourists and locals gather in large numbers to witness a parade of luminous paper lanterns or Khom Loi floating skyward in an ethereal procession. The vision of lambent paper lanterns ascending against the backdrop of a calm night sky is truly a surreal experience and can be enjoyed in a few locations across Thailand.

Yi Peng Lantern Festival is celebrated in a grand fashion with dedicated viewing platforms, food stalls, souvenir shops, and even cultural exhibitions that demonstrate the history of Lanna tribes and the origin of the festival. Visitors are encouraged to dress up in formal attire, preferably white to complement the solemnity of the festival.

Here are some of the best lantern festival celebrations one can attend in Thailand this year:


Yee Peng Lanna International 2023

Venue: Lanna Dhutanga, located next to Mae Jo University, Sansai, Chiang Mai

Date: November 27, 2023

Ticket Tiers: Standard and Premium

Additional Perks: Food Stalls, Souvenir Shops and Cultural Exhibitions

Chiang Mai CAD Khom Loy Sky Lantern Festival (Eco-Friendly Sky Lanterns)

Venue: CAD Cultural Centre Lanna Ethnicity, A, Ban Sa Ha Khon Moo 1T, On Klang, Mae On, Chiang Mai

Date: November 27 & 28, 2023

Ticket Tiers: Standard, Premium, and VIP

Additional Perks: Food Stalls, Souvenir Shops and Numerous Festive Activities

Kom Raksa (Eco-Friendly Sky Lanterns)

Venue: 1317 Ban Sahakorn, Mae On, Chiang Mai

Date: November 27 & 28, 2023

Ticket Tiers: Standard, Premium and VIP

Additional Perks: Food Stalls, Cultural Arts and Concerts

Gateway of Light Lantern, Yi Peng Lantern Festival

Venue: Mae On Hot Spring Hill, Chiang Mai

Date: November 27 & 28, 2023

Ticket Tiers: Standard, Premium and VIP

Additional Perks: Food Stalls, Souvenir Shops and Cultural Arts

Lanna Festival 2023 The Light of Yee Peng

Venue: MungMaNa Farm, San Patong, Chiang Mai

Date: November 27 & 28, 2023

Ticket Tiers: Standard

Additional Perks: Food Stalls, Souvenir Shops, Cultural Arts and Entertainment

Yee Peng Lanna Festival 2023

Venue: Gassan Panorama Golf Club, Lamphun

Date: November 27 & 28, 2023

Ticket Tiers: Standard, Premium and VIP

Additional Perks: Food Stalls, Souvenir Shops and Cultural Arts

Chiang Mai Heritage Sky Lantern Festival 2023

Venue: I Love Banthi, Banthi, Lamphun

Date: November 27, 2023

Ticket Tiers: Standard

Additional Perks: Food Stalls, Souvenir Shops, Concerts and Cultural Arts.

ALSO READ-India Art Festival’s Cultural Oasis in Delhi

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Events Fashion Lite Blogs

Ananya Panday Radiates Elegance in Swarovski’s Diwali Ad

Mirroring the joyful extravagance of the festival, Ananya reveals the spellbinding shine of Swarovski’s captivating creations, each thoughtfully chosen to infuse celebrations with unparalleled opulence…reports Asian Lite News

Diwali symbolises the victory of good over evil, and of light over darkness. The festival’s flickering lanterns and fiery skies bring with them the promise of new triumphs as loved one’s exchange gifts, and good wishes, at celebratory feasts. Partnering with brand ambassador, actress Ananya Panday, Swarovski brings to light a radiant new Diwali campaign.

Mirroring the joyful extravagance of the festival, Ananya reveals the spellbinding shine of Swarovski’s captivating creations, each thoughtfully chosen to infuse celebrations with unparalleled opulence. “Diwali is a time for embracing tradition and celebrating new beginnings, and it is a festival that’s very close to my heart. Swarovski’s beautiful pieces not only reflect the magnificence of the festival, but also the optimism and joy that it represents.

The fusion of craftsmanship and contemporary glamour perfectly captures the mood of the Festival of Lights, and I am truly honored to be a part of this campaign,” comments Ananya. Giovanna Engelbert, Swarovski Global Creative Director says, “Epitomizing grace, beauty, and the spirit of modern India, Ananya embodies the essence of Swarovski’s Diwali 2023 campaign, which highlights our commitment to creating moments of brilliance.

As we join the celebrations, we are thrilled to unveil a campaign that seamlessly blends Swarovski’s mastery of light and crystal artistry with Ananya’s exuberant elegance.”

ALSO READ-Biibhu Mohapatra’s Love for India and Sustainable Fashion

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Events FEATURE London News

Unrivalled shopping and a wealth of festive inspiration – This year, Christmas starts at Spirit!

Festive inspiration from over 700 exciting independent brands at the Spirit of Christmas Fair, 30 October – 5 November at the iconic Olympia London. An exclusive preview feature by columnist Riccha Grrover for Asian Lite International.

Discover a diverse collection of carefully curated gifts from small independent brands and designer-makers each one picked for its originality and quality, brought together for this seven-day event. Discerning shoppers can expect a diverse collection of curated gifts to shop from to satisfy all their gifting needs including toys, fashion, homeware, and stylish décor as well as the finest food and drink from award winning artisans and producers.

New official restaurant partner this year is acclaimed Spanish chef, José Pizarro who has curated a special Tapas menu that showcases his signature dishes alongside exclusive creations designed for the show. Prepare yourself for a Spanish twist on a traditional afternoon tea that promises to be an unforgettable experience. These dishes are perfect for sharing with friends or family at the Fair in this new restaurant, ‘José Pizarro at Spirit of Christmas’.

2023 sees the return of the popular complimentary, creative Workshops offering inspiration to visitors who can enjoy a range of interactive sessions including Jemma Cotterrell, The Shoe Loving Stylist on ‘How to dress with positivity and confidence this festive season’, ‘Biscuit decorating’ from Honeywell Bakes, and ‘Spanish party food inspiration’, while in conversation with José Pizarro himself.

Fair Director, Mary Claire Boyd comments “The Fair is a guaranteed place where visitors know they can leave brimming with festive inspiration to help them start planning their festivities and this year is no exception. They can truly curate their own Christmas from exquisite tablescaping, joyful décor and stylish partywear to uncovering the most original gifts for all their family and friends. We have an exceptional line-up of workshops with top chefs including José Pizarro, florists including Paul Thomas Flowers and renowned chocolatiers; Prestat. We champion British craftsmanship from ethical and sustainable brands and our specialist team have been busy sourcing new businesses and uncovering emerging talent that visitors will relish amongst the treasure-trove!”

The gallery level Food Hall offers visitors the opportunity to buy foodie treats and discover new artisans from whom they can source the best for their guests this Christmas including Great Taste Award-winning produce. The Fair boasts four Louis Roederer Champagne bars providing a relaxing place for visitors to rejuvenate with a glass or two in-between shopping. Two adjoining Fairs can also be enjoyed whilst visiting; the Winter Art & Antiques Fair taking place on the Grand Hall gallery, and The Luxury Travel Fair, taking place 2-5 November on the National Hall gallery.

The Fair provides the perfect social occasion and festive ambiance to enjoy with friends and embrace the season of festivities and gifting. With creative workshops, demonstrations, live music, endless festive inspiration and an unforgettable atmosphere, this year, Christmas really does start at Spirit.

Highlights of the Spirit of Christmas Fair will include:

• 700 independent small businesses and designer-makers to shop from

• Brand new restaurant partner: acclaimed Spanish chef, José Pizarro

• Return of inspirational creative workshops hosted by experts including, The Shoe Loving Stylist, Prestat Chocolates, José Pizarro, Paul Thomas Flowers, Honeywell Bakes, Bettina’s Kitchen, Louis Roederer

• Visitors can enjoy a glass of the finest Champagne in the stylish Louis Roederer Champagne Bars  

• The Food Hall hosts an entirely delectable mix of leading artisans, independent producers, Royal Warrant holders and Great Taste award-winners

• Late night shopping Thursday 2 November 10am – 9pm

• Enjoy complimentary entry into the Winter Art & Antiques Fair from the 30 October – 5 November. Presenting a collection of the finest specialist dealers, offering a wide choice of high-quality, vetted art and antiques spanning centuries

• Condé Nast Traveller presents the Luxury Travel Fair also takes place alongside the Spirit of Christmas Fair from 2-5 November 2023. Offering a collection of the finest bespoke and immersive travel experiences


With this unmissable shopping experience spreading over two halls, shoppers may need to pace themselves. Those wanting to peruse the Fair more than once can upgrade their tickets and make the most of a Premium, Weekend or Unlimited Pass!

Opening Times

Monday 30 October 10am – 6pm ***OPENING DAY***

Tuesday 31 October 10am – 6pm

Wednesday 1 November 10am – 6pm

Thursday 2 November 10am – 9pm ***LATE NIGHT***

Friday 3 November 10am – 6pm

Saturday 4 November 10am – 6pm

Sunday 5 November 10am – 5pm

About The Spirit of Christmas Fair  

• The Spirit of Christmas Fair first launched in 2001 

• Visitor numbers were circa 45,000 in 2022

• Organised by Clarion Events and home to unrivalled shopping from small independent brands, inspirational workshops, and exceptional dining

About Clarion Events  

Clarion Events organises more than 200 events each year across the globe, ranging from exhibitions, conferences and seated events.  Well-known for identifying high-value, niche audiences in difficult-to-reach markets and building them into market-leading products, over 12,000 companies trust them with their custom each year, with more than 700,000 people attending their events.

ALSO READ: ‘Let’s Do London’ Nets £162 Million

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Events London News Theatre

Stellar Cast For ‘Passing’ World Premiere Announced

Following critically acclaimed productions at the Edinburgh Festival Fringe and Seven Dials Playhouse, Want the Moon Theatre will make its Park Theatre debut with their heartfelt and insightful family drama Passing. An exclusive preview by columnist Riccha Grrover for Asian lite International.

In celebration of Diwali, Passing is a tender one-room comedy exploring Indian family heritage and the ideologies around self-acceptance through learning. Following the story of Rachel, a young mixed-race woman who feels detached from her identity and upbringing, Passing will shine a light on the biracial experience of today.

Known for her roles as Carmen in CBBC’S Tracey Beaker Returns, and Mimi in BBC’s Our Girl, Amy-Leigh Hickman (You, Netflix; East is East, National Theatre) will play Rachel Singh, who plans a Diwali party for her Indian grandfather after he falls ill, in an attempt to reignite his family’s culture and heritage. 

Amy-Leigh Hickman (Credit: Faye Thomas)

Passing presents a uniquely Hindu story on stage, showcasing the Hindu experience in the UK, which is underrepresented on stage. This world premiere explores the notion that cultural heritage can be lost through the generations, and the urgency to keep that heritage alive.

Joining Hickman on stage are soap stars Bhasker Patel (Emmerdale, ITV; Silence, Donmar Warehouse) and Catherine Cusack (Finding Neverland, Mirimax; Spring Awakening, Almeida Theatre). Alongside them are Jack Flammiger (COPS, Southwark Playhouse; Jury Duty Live, Theatre Deli) and recent graduate from Guildhall School of Music and Drama, Kishore Walker (The Boys Are Kissing, Theatre 503; Doctors, BBC One). With music, food, and even board games, Passing promises to push the Singh family to the limits, challenging the politely restrained appearance they are desperate to maintain around others.

Produced by Want the Moon Theatre, founders of the company Dan Sareen and Ellen Harris strive to develop and diversify traditional theatre audiences with their work. Their debut production Other People’s Teeth was performed at Brighton Fringe, Edinburgh Festival Fringe, and Playmill 18 at the King’s Head Theatre in 2018 after the company was formed since all meeting and graduating from Leeds University.

Director, Imy Wyatt Corner comments, I’m so thrilled to be working on a show which explores the joyous complexities of a multi-generational mixed white and Asian family like my own. Seeing this represented on stage in the style of a traditional family comedy drama is still quite rare and Passing feels like an important reclamation of a traditional form. Passing deals with difficult familial issues with Ayckbourn-esque comedy and I hope this production will really pull through the profound heart and love at its core.

Wednesday 1st – Saturday 25th November 2023 2 hours and 30 minutes, including interval

Park Theatre (Park90), 13 Clifton Terrace, Finsbury Park, London N4 3JP

Dementia friendly performance on Thursday 16th November, 3:15pm

Park Theatre presents exceptional theatre in the heart of Finsbury Park, boasting two world- class performance spaces: Park200 for predominantly larger scale productions by established talent, and Park90, a flexible studio space, for emerging artists. In ten years, it has enjoyed eight West End transfers (including Rose starring Maureen Lipman, The Boys in the Band starring Mark Gatiss, Pressure starring David Haig and The Life I Lead starring Miles Jupp), two National Theatre transfers, 14 national tours, six Olivier Award nominations, has won multiple OffWestEnd Offie Awards and won a Theatre of the Year award from The Stage.

ALSO READ: Dorothy Circus Gallery London Proudly Presents Fatima Ronquillo ‘Amore: An Ode To Love’

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Events London News UK News

Interfaith Service at Manchester Cathedral Celebrates Diversity

Over 350 representatives from Afro-Caribbean, Christian, Hindu, Jain, Jewish, Muslim, and Sikh communities came together to offer prayers and reflections, highlighting the common threads of love and peace that unite humanity.

On the occasion of Mahatma Gandhi’s 154th Birth Anniversary, a heartfelt Interfaith Service was held at the historic Manchester Cathedral, bringing together people from diverse faiths and backgrounds to celebrate the universal values of love, peace, and unity. The Interfaith Service transcended religious boundaries with attendees from various faith-based organisations, government officials, community leaders and individuals from all walks of life. Over 350 representatives from Afro-Caribbean, Christian, Hindu, Jain, Jewish, Muslim, and Sikh communities came together to offer prayers and reflections, highlighting the common threads of love and peace that unite humanity. The Interfaith Service was sponsored by the Kamani Family in memory of their grandfather Bhanji Khanji Kamani (1888-1979).

Paying tribute to Gandhi’s enduring legacy, Aadit Virani, Chair of Executive Committee, Shrimad Rajchandra Mission Dharampur UK (SRMD UK) shared, “It is no coincidence that the 2nd of October is designated as the International Day of Non-Violence by the United Nations; a testament to Gandhi’s global impact. Gandhi’s approach to religion was marked by progressiveness and a profound willingness to learn from other faiths. This very attribute makes him an extraordinary role model for the multicultural and multi-ethnic community of Manchester.” Sharing her thoughts on how relevant Gandhi’s teachings are today, High Sheriff of Greater Manchester, Mary-Liz Walker JP DL said, “the times are different, but the social issues remain. We can however carry forward Gandhi’s legacy and the things that he did when he was alive. It is his ideals that continue appeal to the people of all generations.”

The event commenced with the laying of flowers at the statue of Mahatma Gandhi outside Manchester Cathedral followed by soul-stirring cultural performances, including a melodic performance by ShowCaseUs, harmonious rendition by the Greenbank Preparatory School Choir, a powerful dedication from Lucy Veighey and mesmerising violin and viola performance by Saanvi Reddy and Imani Soren-Fahy. An expressive dance dedication by Year 13 Girls from Cheadle Hulme School and a devotional kathak dance performance by Krishna Panchmatia, showcased the richness of diverse cultures while reinforcing the message of love and unity.

Attendees also had the opportunity to engage in open dialogues and discussions, promoting an exchange of ideas and experiences. Throughout the Service, speakers shared how the principles of peace, unity, non-violence, compassion, and hope continue to be relevant in our contemporary global context.

Recognising the importance of all communities in creating a better world, Cllr Yasmine Dar, Lord Mayor of Manchester said, “We all belong to the human race and together we must be the leaders of change and walk on the path of peace to bring communities together and end violence. We must work together in this beautiful diversity with the common vision of love and unity.” Echoing this sentiment, Honourable Rogers Govender MBE, Dean of Manchester Cathedral shared the importance of community cohesion, particular in the backdrop of the cost of living crisis, “peace can only be achieved if we connect to those different than us; we have to move out of our ethnic groupings and work with Justice to make sure hungry people are fed and reach out to the unemployed and homeless. It is our duty to protect the rights and dignity of all human beings and ensure they are cared for, respected and honoured as children made in the image of God. Through our good deeds we can then build an environment of peace, kindness and compassion”.

The Interfaith Service at Manchester Cathedral was a resounding success, leaving attendees inspired and motivated to continue working toward a world where love, peace, and unity prevail.

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Events India News

India’s Legendary Rock Festival Returns

In 2022, after almost a decade-long break, Mahindra I-Rock made a historic return to reclaim its cult status and rich legacy of sparking a roaring rock scene in the 80s and 90s. This time, the festival welcomed rock scenesters to its new home at Bayview Lawns by the Arabian Sea…reports Asian Lite News

It started with defiance. The birth of the modern Indian rock fan and the space and audiences for modern Indian rock musicians. It started with defiance in August 1986 against a college principal’s authoritarian diktat cancelling two rock gigs at Malhar, one of Mumbai’s most popular annual college festivals hosted by St Xavier’s College. A public outcry followed.

However, there was one individual unwilling to give up easily. Farhad Wadia of Mirage (one of the bands slated to perform on the college campus) eventually organised Independence Rock at Rang Bhavan for a night of complete rock shindig, not too far from St. Xavier’s College.

Soon, the festival earned the sobriquet – “Woodstock of India.” With 28 successful editions, it evolved into a legendary rock festival that left a deep impression on the Indian Gen X rockers. Today, in its 29th edition and rechristened as Mahindra Independence Rock, the festival is one of the oldest and largest music festivals in India.

Mapping its path from Rang Bhavan to Bayview Lawns

For long, I-Rock has been synonymous with Rang Bhavan in South Mumbai. The venue was iconic for music festivals and had a certain charm. The festival persevered here despite controversies over noise pollution, battling permission issues, and numerous threats to pull the plug. It even found a new home in Chitrakoot Grounds in Andheri until it halted entirely in 2013.

In 2022, after almost a decade-long break, Mahindra I-Rock made a historic return to reclaim its cult status and rich legacy of sparking a roaring rock scene in the 80s and 90s. This time, the festival welcomed rock scenesters to its new home at Bayview Lawns by the Arabian Sea.

The festival’s spirit of “independence” endures

The Independence Rock gets its name from being held annually on the weekend of India’s Independence Day on 15th August. True to its name, it was much more than a rock festival. I-Rock was a means of identity and belongingness to a community. It was an outlet, a channel to express freedom through rock for the youth in this country. It was the ultimate rite of passage for Gen X, and this kept the genre relevant.

This core spirit of freedom and independence has endured through its previous editions before its hiatus in 2013 and even in its 28th edition post-hiatus. The iconic festival continues reflecting on the social and cultural changes and democratises music.

From covers to original music

It began as largely a covers festival but increasingly saw original music. This also had to do with I-Rock’s eagerness to discover and give new talent a chance to take the stage at the festival.

The scenario was such before the talent content that preceded the festival – several unsolicited cassettes from underground bands or canteen bands would land up at the homes of organisers. Some lucky emerging acts found a chance to perform with popular bands like Pentagram (which gave Bollywood Vishal Dadlani), Parikrama, or Down Sterling (in which AR Rahman was a keyboardist), eventually rising to fame in the rock scene and coming back as part of line-up to perform at I-Rock. Some of these bands include Parikrama, Bhayanak Maut, and Zero.

Even today, Mahindra I-Rock continues to serve as a launchpad for raw, new talent via an online band hunt before the festival. The winner gets to be the opening act of the festival.

Going back to the roots with local flavour

Regional rock music has picked up not only in the city but also in the country. And the festival has taught its audience to embrace the idea of rock that needn’t be English-heavy. Through the editions, its stage has seen Indian musicians blend diverse sounds of the tabla, mridangam, flute, violin, and many other instruments for a raging, head-banging crowd.

In fact, from the northern Hindi-Punjabi chorus by Bloodywood to influences from the South like Thaikkudam Bridge and Avial, the 28th edition of the festival welcomed multiple languages and influences into its fold.

Not just a festival but an experience

Mahindra I-Rock is not just a music festival like in the 90s. With festival goers expecting a degree of care in terms of food and beverages to indulge in and production value thanks to their global exposure, the festival has evolved to give a holistic, larger-than-life rock experience to the attendees – which was not the norm two decades ago.

The two-day festival returns for its 29th edition to Mumbai’s Bayview Lawns on the 4th and 5th of November 2023. This year’s stellar line-up is bringing authentic sounds from diverse corners of the country and includes bands like Girish and the Chronicles, Mama Tips & The Mama’s Boys, Gutslit, Swarathma, T.ill APES, Tough on Tobacco, Agam, Parikrama, Bhayanak Maut and Kathmandu-based Underside.

ALSO READ-

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-Top News Events India News

Delhi Police Conducts G20 Summit Rehearsal

The Bomb Squad of the National Security Guard (NSG) on Saturday conducted an anti-sabotage sweep at different locations in the national capital ahead of the G20 Summit.

The Delhi Police conducted comprehensive dress rehearsals for the upcoming G20 Summit on Saturday.

They oversaw the procession of caravans from various parts of the national capital towards the New Delhi district.

The rehearsal session began at 8:30 a.m and continued till 12 p.m.
Further rehearsals were also scheduled for 4:30 p.m to 6 p.m, and 7 p.m to 11 p.m.

Commuters were strongly encouraged to utilize the metro services due to expected traffic disruptions.

Throughout the carcade rehearsals, traffic restrictions will be in place at several key locations, including Sardar Patel Marg-Panchsheel Marg, Sardar Patel Marg–Kautilya Marg, Gol Methi roundabout, Mansingh Road roundabout, C-Hexagon, Mathura Road, Zakir Hussain Marg-Subramaniam Bharti Marg, Bhairon Marg-Ring Road, Satya Marg/Shantipath roundabout,
Janpath–Kartavyapath, Barakhamba Road red light, Tolstoy Marg, and Vivekanand Marg, among others, according to officials.

The traffic police said that passengers going towards railway stations will be able to use their private vehicles, Auto-rickshaws, taxis for travelling to New Delhi railway station and Old Delhi railway station.

However, in case of road journeys they may face some congestion and consequent delays. Therefore, they are advised to keep sufficient time at hand. For easier and more convenient access to railway stations passengers are advised to make maximum use of Metro services,” they said.

The traffic advisory further advised that passengers going towards the airport are advised to make maximum use of Metro services, especially the Airport Express Line connecting New Delhi Station to Dwarka Sector 21 Station via IGI Airport T3.

“City Bus Services will not be affected at large. However, they may be diverted from certain road stretches in New Delhi District depending upon the real time traffic situation,” it said.

“Motorists are requested to have patience, observe traffic rules & road discipline and follow directions of Traffic Police personnel deployed at all intersections. People are also requested to plan their journey in advance with sufficient time at hand to avoid inconvenience,” it added.

BOMB SQUAD’S ANTI-SABOTAGE CHECKS

The Bomb Squad of the National Security Guard (NSG) on Saturday conducted an anti-sabotage sweep at different locations in the national capital ahead of the G20 Summit.

Earlier, on Saturday, Delhi Traffic Police conducted another full dress rehearsal as part of its preparations for the upcoming G20 Summit in the national capital on September 9 and 10.

The two-day summit will draw leaders and delegates from 40 countries, including the 20 member states.

The carcade rehearsals were carried out in the Pragati Maidan area of the national capital where the global event will be hosted next month, officials said.

Speaking to ANI on Saturday, Special Commissioner Of Delhi Traffic Police, SS Yadav said, “We have shared the travel guidelines with all the media houses. Newspapers have also published our releases and necessary information is also being shared on our social media handles. The focus is to ensure that the impact on the movement of traffic is kept at a minimum.”

The G20 Summit is set to be hosted at the state-of-the-art Bharat Mandapam Convention Centre at Pragati Maidan.

Earlier, on August 23, Delhi traffic police authorities carried out a full-dress rehearsal on selected routes.

Delhi Police, which started its preparations for the G20 Summit in earnest a few months ago, has been training personnel who are to be deployed at various locations ahead of and during the big-ticket summit.

The personnel are also being trained to deal with the fallout of possible hazards, including the use of chemical and biological weapons, and have been asked to focus on their soft skills. (ANI)

ALSO READ: Pakistani-Chinese Lobby Push Propaganda Ahead Of G20 Summit

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Events India News London News

Indian Diaspora in Manchester Celebrates Independence Day

The spectacular cultural celebration showcased rich heritage and diversity of the Indian community in Manchester.

The Indian Association Manchester marked the 77th Independence Day of India on August 19th with a spectacular cultural celebration that showcased the rich heritage and diversity of the Indian community in Manchester. The event took place at Gandhi Hall, Withington, Manchester, and was attended by numerous community members, dignitaries, and esteemed guests.

The program commenced with a warm welcome by Vice President Vijay Kumar Ji, setting the tone for an evening filled with cultural splendor. The event was hosted by the renowned professional compere/host “Jazzy J” who expertly guided the audience through the evening’s festivities.

The highlight of the evening was the mesmerizing cultural performance presented by local community artists, who skillfully presented a variety of traditional and contemporary dance forms, music, and theatrical acts. The vibrant colors, intricate costumes, and energetic performances captivated the audience, creating an immersive experience that celebrated India’s cultural vibrancy.

The event was graced by distinguished guests, including Mr. Pramod Kumar Yadav, the Assistant Consulate Officer from the Consulate General of India in Birmingham. Mr. Yadav’s presence highlighted the importance of the occasion and emphasized the strong ties between the Indian diaspora in Manchester and the motherland.

Adding to the honor, Mr. Nripjit Singh Bedi, the Ex-Commandant of the Border Security Force (BSF), brought his profound insights and experience to the event. His presence resonated with the dedication and sacrifice of those who serve the nation, a sentiment that echoed through the celebrations.

Councillor Vimal Chowksy MBE, representing Tameside Council, attended as a guest of honor, acknowledging the significant contributions of the Indian community to the local society and its cultural fabric. Likewise, Councillor Dr. Kaushik Chakraborthy from Trafford Council graced the event, symbolizing the unity and collaboration between different communities within Manchester.

The event was a testament to the spirit of unity and harmony that defines the Indian diaspora in Manchester. It showcased not only the vibrant cultural expressions of India but also highlighted the sense of belonging and pride that the community members feel towards their roots. The celebration underscored the cultural diversity that enriches the fabric of Manchester.

Reflecting on the event, Mr. Sathish Kumar, General Secretary of the Indian Association Manchester, expressed his gratitude to all those who contributed to making the celebration a resounding success. He emphasized that the event was a platform to promote cultural understanding and to strengthen the bonds between the Indian community and the wider Manchester community. The program concluded on a high note, leaving attendees with cherished memories of a night that celebrated the essence of India’s Independence Day and the unity of the Manchester community.

ALSO READ: India’s Soft Power And Modern Face To Echo At G20

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-Top News Events India News

Murmu approves 76 Gallantry awards  

The two pilots lost their lives in the crash despite having liberty to land in open area but this could have caused damage to ammunition point and civilians on ground…reports Asian Lite News

President Droupadi Murmu has approved 76 Gallantry awards to Armed Forces and Central Armed Police Forces personnel on the occasion of 77th Independence Day, an official release said.

These Gallantry awards include four Kirti Chakra (posthumous), 11 Shaurya Chakras, including five posthumous, two Bar to Sena Medals (Gallantry), 52 Sena Medals (Gallantry), three Nao Sena Medal (Gallantry) and four Vayu Sena Medals (Gallantry).

The President has also approved 30 Mention-in-Despatches to the Army, including to Army dog Madhu (Posthumous), and one to Air Force personnel for their significant contributions in different military operations.

The operations include Operation Rakshak, Operation Snow Leopard, Operation Casualty Evacuation, Operation Mount Chomo, Operation Pangsau Pass, Operation Meghdoot, Operation Orchid, Operation Kalisham Valley, Rescue Operation and Operation Evacuation.

The Kirti Chakra awardees who received it posthumously are Dilip Kumar Das, Raj Kumar Yadava, Bablu Rabha and Sambha Roy, all of the Central Reserve Police Force.

The Shaurya Chakra recipients include five personnel named for it posthumously, including Major Vikas Bhambhu and Major Mustafa Bohara of Army Aviation Squadron; Hav Vivek Singh Tomar of the Rajputana Rifles, Rifleman Kulbhushan Manta of the Rashtriya Rifles and Saifullah Qadri, SG constable, Jammu and Kashmir police.

Indian Army Majors Vikas Bhambhu and Mustafa Bohara awarded the Shaurya Chakra posthumously for flying away their crashing ALH Dhruv Rudra helicopter from a built up area and an ammunition point in Arunachal Pradesh in October, 2022 saving many precious lives.

The two pilots lost their lives in the crash despite having liberty to land in open area but this could have caused damage to ammunition point and civilians on ground.

Wing Commander ShreyTomar awarded Vayu Sena Medal Gallantry for safely landing his twin engine fighter aircraft safely on single engine due to fire and preventing both loss of life and property.

Havildar Vivek Singh Tomar awarded the Shaurya Chakra posthumously for saving the lives of fellow soldiers and preventing a major fire incident during deployment at the Siachen Glacier at an altitude of 18,300 feet. He observed a fire inside a snow tent in January this year and entered inside disregarding personal safety to contain the situation but laid down his life in the incident due to injuries. (ANI)

ALSO READ-World leaders extends wishes to India on I-Day

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Events Lifestyle Lite Blogs

Creative ideas to celebrate and educate on August 15th

The children must run with the national flags during this unique Independence Day relay race and pass them to the other team members who must carry them to the finish line…writes Olivia Sarkar

As we approach another Independence Day on August 15, it is a proud time for everyone. This day is observed annually and is a time to remember the courageous leaders and war heroes who fought for the freedom we now take for granted. Here are some fun ideas for celebrating Independence Day and activities to teach kids more about the significance of the holiday.

March Past

In your neighbourhood, you can organise a march past, often known as a parade or procession. The opportunity presented by this activity can be used to remind everyone of the sacrifices made by our independence warriors and the significance of this day for us as Indian citizens.

Show a Patriotic movie

In large school halls or auditoriums, it would be a wonderful idea to use projectors to broadcast a patriotic movie on the big screen. Select films that depict crucial events that contributed to freedom as well as the spirit of fraternity in attaining their objectives.

Independenc Day theme party

Setting up a theme party helps to capture the essence of the important day, just like any other event. Every arrangement for the day might draw colour inspiration from the flag of our country or other connected symbols. By integrating tricolored food products, the organisers can build the menu depending on themes.

Flag Relay

For children in elementary and intermediate schools, it can be a pleasant pastime. You are all familiar with the guidelines for the typical relay race. The children must run with the national flags during this unique Independence Day relay race and pass them to the other team members who must carry them to the finish line.

Organise play

This is a fun activity that could brighten the celebrations. Kids might use this chance to recreate any famous historical event that exhibits feelings of patriotism. This opportunity can be used by parents and educators to encourage children to take a closer look at historical events.

Cultural Dance

India is unique because of its diversity and unity. There are numerous cultures present in each of the 28 states of the union, many of which we are not even aware of. The finest time to learn about the various cultures in India is on Independence Day, and one way to achieve that is by planning an ethnic dance performance.

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