Category: Sharjah

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Sharjah Gears Up for Union Day

Numerous government entities will actively participate, making it a comprehensive and engaging activations for residents and visitors alike…reports Asian Lite News

In preparation for the 52nd UAE Union Day, a comprehensive program list has been unveiled by the Sharjah National Day Celebrations Committee. The national occasion is set to commemorate a diverse array of events taking place from November 22nd – December 3rd across the emirate’s most prominent tourism and cultural spots.
Also called the Union Day, this national event will cater to a diverse age group, bringing together citizens and residents to participate in the festivities that mark the nation’s remarkable journey and its significant accomplishments.

Khalid Jasim Al Midfa, Chairman of the Sharjah National Day Celebrations Committee, expressed gratitude to Sharjah’s Crown Prince and Deputy Ruler, Sheikh Sultan bin Mohammed bin Sultan Al Qasimi, for his patronage and support in preparing for the celebrations. He emphasized the Committee’s goal to reflect the nation’s achievements through these celebrations, drawing lessons from previous celebrations.
“As we celebrate Union Day, we reflect on the UAE’s essence, embodying global outlook while embracing our culture and traditions” said Al Midfa. “This unifying occasion symbolizes shared aspirations for a brighter future, and we invite everyone to join us and attend the events around The Emirate of Sharjah.”

The events will be hosted across various regions, including Sharjah National Park, Maliha Public Park, Al Hosn Island, Dibba Al Hisn, Khorfakkan Amphitheater, Souq Sharq, Wadi Al Helo, Kalba, Al Bataeh, Al Mudam, Al Dhaid Fort, and the Heritage Village in Al Hamriyah.

The events in Sharjah is set to run from November 22 to December 3, as they will feature a range of activities including national art exhibitions, traditional and cultural shows, recreational and educational workshops, and competitions. Numerous government entities will actively participate, making it a comprehensive and engaging activations for residents and visitors alike.

Main Event at Sharjah National Park

The main event and opening is set to be in Sharjah National Park on the 28th of November and will be running until the 3rd of December. The opening event will include multiple theatrical shows, educational shows and workshop, children interactive competitions and shows, while having other corners and participations by various government entities.
Among the events planned in Al Dhaid, a national march will comence from the Grand Mosque to Al Dhaid Fort. Other events will include folk dances, night markets, traditional food, and a military band performance. In line with the Year of Sustainability initiatives, an activity in Al Dhaid will involve planting seedlings in various areas under the title “A Green Land.”

Meanwhile the Al Bataeh region have planned various shows including traditional folk dances, horse shows and a classic car show on November 29, with aim to showcase the heritage of the city. Visitors can enjoy bus tours around the village areas of the region to distribute flags and Union Day gifts.

From the 29th of November to 1st of December, the Heritage Village will host a series of events including a national march, military band performances, poetry recitals, a national play, Yula performances and various competitions with prizes. The events will conclude with dinner and horse and camel shows. Kalba will witness day-long events on November 25, including a march, an operetta a classic car parade, a sports competition, and equestrian shows.

The Khorfakkan celebrations will be held on 24 – 25 November at the Khor Fakkan Amphitheater, witness the participation of folklore bands, food trucks, and national art workshops. Additionally, the program will include a documentary screening, a national operetta, magic shows and more.

Al Mudam region will feature morning segments with a military band, followed by the recognition of services to community institutions, orphanages, and humanitarian service entitles. Meanwhile, the evening segments start including poetry, children’s activities, workshops, competitions, and fireworks.

Visitors and residents participated in activities held at the Heritage Village on November 22. The festivities that included poetry recitals, traditional folk songs, a screening of cultural videos commemorating the 52nd National Day, followed by interactive workshops, and a sports competition.

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Arts & Culture Lite Blogs Sharjah

SILC Celebrates 10 Years of Knowledge Exchange

The closing day of the conference was marked by a series of eight engaging discussions led by global experts in the library industry…reports Asian Lite News

The 10th annual Sharjah International Library Conference (SILC), organised by the Sharjah Book Authority (SBA), in collaboration with the American Libraries Association (ALA), has offered key learning and networking opportunities to 250 participating librarians, academics, thought leaders, and other industry professionals from 14 countries who partook in the milestone decennial edition of the event.

From learning about current trends and beneficial emerging technologies to advance the library sector, to creating innovative spaces and services to engage readers more meaningfully, and exploring the positive impact of libraries in reversing climate change, the two-day conference took place at the 42nd Sharjah International Book Fair (SIBF).

Mansour Al Hassani, Director of Publisher Services at SBA, reflecting on the well attended 2-day conference said, “Throughout the ten years of this gathering of library professionals, the Sharjah International Libraries Conference has enriched the global discourse on libraries while serving as a catalyst for innovation, collaboration, and the continuous evolution of the library industry. The exchange of insights, the exploration of cutting-edge technologies, and the recognition of excellence within the field reaffirm our commitment to shaping a future where libraries are dynamic hubs of knowledge and inspiration. The success of this conference, and our valued partnership with the American Library Association, proves that great things can be achieved when we come together through a united vision to encourage passion for the realm of libraries and the written word.”

Commenting on the success of the conference and their connection with Sharjah, Michael Dowling, Director of Chapter and International Relations for ALA said, “Celebrating our 10th year here in Sharjah has been an important milestone and has proven the sustainability of the yearly gathering. Thanks to our partnership with SIBF, we’ve not only successfully established the conference, but also made it possible for librarians worldwide to actively participate in the Book Fair, expand their catalogues, and network with the wider publishing community, especially those within the region. As Sharjah is considered a cultural centre of the region, it has been an absolute pleasure to have been welcomed and supported by the emirate over these ten years. This year we had two major focuses, the emerging influence and utility of Artificial Intelligence within the library industry; and the growing concerns around climate change and sustainability, and how libraries can help to provide knowledge, create awareness and do their part to contribute towards the global cause. Other important topics were around professional development within our industry, reading in the school environment and improving global educational standards.”    

Equipping libraries with the tools to nurture young minds

The closing day of the conference was marked by a series of eight engaging discussions led by global experts in the library industry. The conference also shed light on the importance of school librarians in nurturing young minds, helping students cope with life’s challenges, and creating businesses, careers, and research centres within libraries.

One particularly illuminating session titled “Libraries Empowering Climate Action: Policy, advocacy, and practice,” explored how libraries, with the support of the International Federation of Library Associations and Institutions (IFLA), have been actively engaged in climate empowerment. Claire McGuire, a Policy Officer at IFLA, highlighted the organisation’s work in climate action, emphasising the importance of libraries, librarians, and library associations in advocating for climate solutions at various levels while implementing practical initiatives to address global problems.

Virtual reality (VR) technologies were also on the agenda, with unique perspectives shared on the implementation of VR in library settings. Additionally, the conference provided an excellent platform to discuss project-based learning, which aims to transform teaching and learning, foster critical thinking, and build resiliency.

The conference closed with a session dedicated to Library Associations, offering valuable information on the resources and opportunities available to those involved in the library field. Participants had the privilege of hearing from representatives of esteemed library associations, including the Arab Federation for Libraries and Information, the American Library Association, and the International Federation of Library Associations and Institutions.

To mark the conclusion of the event, a distribution of certificates recognised the contributions and achievements of the conference attendees, ensuring that the knowledge and experiences gained during the two-day event will continue to shape the future of libraries in the United Arab Emirates and around the world.

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Events Lite Blogs Sharjah

Kalimat Group’s Rewayat imprint encourages introspection & self-love at SIBF 2023

The latest Rewayat release explores the mirror as a companion teaching self-care before self-presentation. It calls for discovering inner calm and experiencing a life enriched by contemplation…reports Asian Lite News

Many book-inspired activities at the ongoing 42nd Sharjah International Book Fair (SIBF 2023) are taking visitors on unique journeys of learning and new discoveries. Amongst thousands of such offerings, one stands out – a silent parade organised by Rewayat imprint of the UAE-based publisher Kalimat Group.

The parade is inspired by their latest book release, titled Mirror Meditation: The Power of Neuroscience and Self-Reflection to Overcome Self-Criticism written by Dr. Tara Well, a psychology professor and self-awareness coach.

The latest Rewayat release explores the mirror as a companion teaching self-care before self-presentation. It calls for discovering inner calm and experiencing a life enriched by contemplation.

The silent parade led by talented artists offers a stark contrast to the bustle of the lively book fair demanding immediate attention. The parade glides across the book fair’s premises, with the artists holding mirrors and gazing into them contemplatively, symbolic of the need for self-reflection and introspection.

The artist’s painted faces make their introspective stance more prominent to the audiences, encouraging them to look inwards, and perhaps, turn to the book that inspired this unique artistic performance.

SIBF 2023’s theme, ‘We Speak Books,’ encapsulates most activities, including Rewayat’s parade introducing the book, where author Dr. Tara Well raises self-reflective questions about our image in the mirror. She proposes that we look at ourselves to gain a deeper understanding and wisdom about our identities.

Well believes that mirrors can elicit powerful feelings and offer unexpected self-insights. They are fundamental tools for addressing life’s challenges because they allow us to confront ourselves directly.

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Yasmin Karachiwala Shares Insights on Staying Fit and Healthy in Busy Lives

Buying The Perfect 10 gives the reader access to a QR code that will take them to her exercise videos. The energetic coach also got the audience to do some of her exercises without leaving their chairs…reports Asian Lite News

“Results are about how you feel –  are you waking up brighter, sleeping better, feeling less stressed or doing day-to-day tasks without groaning,” pointed out celebrity fitness coach Yasmin Karachiwala as she listed the benefits of keeping fit at the 42nd Sharjah International Book Fair.

Karachiwala, who has a fitness studio, was discussing her new book The Perfect 10: 10 minute workouts you can do anywhere with film journalist Manju Ramanan.

The Bombay-born, US-educated author and fitness expert whose first book Sculpt and Shape: The Pilates Way was well-received, noted that the new book was ideal for those who lacked time or motivation to work out. “I make money because people don’t move,” she stated.

Karachiwala categorised people into different groups based on their workout habits or lack of it — the overachievers who worked too hard, the steadfast who exercised regularly, the dreamers who only dreamt of a fit body, the dippers who worked for a short time and dropped out, the goalies who set goals, groupees who exercises in groups, the walkers, sports hobbyists, reluctants, and busy bees who had no time for it. She said her book was apt for the busy bees as it gave 25 stacks of 10-minute workouts.

Buying The Perfect 10 gives the reader access to a QR code that will take them to her exercise videos. The energetic coach also got the audience to do some of her exercises without leaving their chairs.

The fitness advocate also asked her audience to take intermittent fasting with caution. “If it is done with planning, it is okay. But if all you can think about is food during the fasting time, it is not for you,” she advised.

“Abs are made in the kitchen”, she pointed out, and advised against abusing one’s body with food. She does not take cheat days, only cheat meals like a biryani. She stressed the need to follow proper nutrition and hydration and build muscles.

One of the best fitness trainers in Bollywood, Yasmin’s clientele includes Kareena Kapoor, Katrina Kaif, Deepika Padukone, and Alia Bhatt. Interestingly, filmstars do not expect to be treated differently and are very disciplined about working out despite their long work hours, she disclosed. 

A winner of numerous awards including the Best Fitness Instructor award at Vogue Fashion Awards 2013, Karachiwala has a large fan following on instagram and YouTube. Her food recipes on social media are also popular with followers.

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SIBF 2023: Poetic Minds Unite Against AI’s Creative Limitations

Hoshang Osi, a prize-winning Syrian-Kurdish poet and novelist, likened AI to beauty laboratories in cosmetics, envisioning its potential sophistication in the future but avoiding predictions about its nature in 2050….reports Asian Lite News

In a thought-provoking discussion on “Verses in the Digital Age” at the 42nd Sharjah International Book Fair, poets Shelby Leigh from the USA and Hoshang Osi from Syria emphasized the irreplaceable role of human creativity and emotions, asserting that artificial intelligence (AI) and ChatGPT cannot replicate these essential elements.

Moderated by Emirati TV presenter Alya Al Mansoori, the session delved into the evolving trends of poetry on social media platforms and explored the increasing attraction of readers to connect with poets online.

Hoshang Osi, a Syrian-Kurdish poet and award-winning novelist, drew a parallel between AI and beauty laboratories in cosmetics, describing AI as potentially sophisticated in the future but refraining from making predictions about its nature in 2050. He likened poetry to a free-flowing river on social media, an open space that adapts to the poet’s situation or location, defying easy definition unlike prose and drama.

Reflecting on the language in his works, Osi noted that his literature mirrored the linguistic qualities of the language he wrote in, aiming for an easy and authentic connection with the reader.

Shelby Leigh, a poet and mental health advocate with over seven years of online writing experience, shared her journey of initially writing anonymously about mental health issues such as anxiety from her own experiences and emotions. Leigh, who now hosts a virtual poetic community and assists aspiring writers in getting their works published, emphasized that AI, while a supportive tool, cannot replace the depth of her emotions and creativity. She highlighted the joy of connecting with people on social media but emphasized the unique human element that AI lacks.

Both poets delighted poetry enthusiasts by reading excerpts from their poems during the engaging session.

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Eye-opening consequences of our clothing choices in the era of fast fashion

Khamisani was among the first wave of the pioneering ethical fashion movement in Europe in the mid-2000s, setting up the independent fashion brand Outsider in London in 2009…reports Asian Lite News

Visitors to the ongoing Sharjah International Book Fair (SIBF) had the opportunity to engage with designer and environmental advocate Noorin Khamisani as she addressed the profound impact of the fast fashion industry on the environment and its ethical implications.

In a one-on-one conversation with radio presenter Louis Denham, Khamisani provided an eye-opening journey into the often-overlooked consequences of our clothing choices.

“I think one of the most difficult things is that a lot of fast fashion, no matter what kind of garment it is, is made from polyester, which is basically plastic. And then if that ends up being thrown into a landfill, well, as far as we know, it’s never going to biodegrade,” warned Khamisani who currently works as the Programme Leader in Postgraduate Fashion at Istituto Marangoni London.

“I think one of our biggest challenges is to move away from being so dependent on polyester and synthetic fabrics in general”, she added.

When asked how she would differentiate a need from a want when it comes to fashion, Noorin noted: “I think you have to be honest with yourself. Most of us have about 70 percent of our wardrobes just hanging there, with clothes that never get worn. So it’s all about going into your wardrobe and looking through and sometimes rediscovering things”.

“And that’s where we come back to thinking of fashion as a verb, as something that we do. So how do we fashion ourselves? How do we interact with fashion rather than fashion always being about consumption,” she added, urging the audience to “share and swap” clothes with friends. 

“If they just don’t work for us anymore, chances are you might have a friend who might really love that piece, and they might get that lovely emotional bond of knowing that it belonged to you and that it’s being passed on to them. And I think this is where fashion becomes so much more meaningful”.

Talking about the “whole new realm” for fashion designers to create “digital garments” for people that “just want to have a new outfit on Instagram”, she said: “This is complicated. It’s not like a complete replacement, but it does help to get us thinking differently. Like if all you want is to wear it on Instagram, why do you need to physically own that?,” she asked.

Khamisani was among the first wave of the pioneering ethical fashion movement in Europe in the mid-2000s, setting up the independent fashion brand Outsider in London in 2009. She continues to exhibit and sell her work internationally as well as lecturing in fashion design after being part of the founding faculty at the Dubai Institute of Design and Innovation (DIDI) in 2019.

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Arab News Sharjah UAE News

Sharjah Named Guest of Honour at Thessaloniki Book Fair

The emirate will take center stage as the Guest of Honour during the upcoming edition of the fair, scheduled from May 16th to May 19th, 2024….reports Asian Lite News

Sharjah, a beacon of global cultural significance, is poised to showcase the rich culture and heritage of the UAE and the Arab world at the prestigious Thessaloniki International Book Fair in Greece.

The emirate will take center stage as the Guest of Honour during the upcoming edition of the fair, scheduled from May 16th to May 19th, 2024.

This momentous announcement was made during the ongoing Sharjah International Book Fair (SIBF 2023). The Sharjah Book Authority (SBA) and the Hellenic Foundation for Culture formalized the announcement through a signing ceremony, led by Nikos Koukis, President of the Hellenic Foundation for Culture, and Khoula Al Mujaini, Director of Events and Marketing, SBA.

The event witnessed the presence of key figures, including Ahmed bin Rakkad Al Ameri, CEO of SBA, and members of the Greek delegation attending the book fair.

HE Ahmed Al Ameri, CEO of SBA, expressed his gratitude for this esteemed title, stating, “Sharjah’s participation in the Thessaloniki International Book Fair represents a fresh opportunity for Emirati and Arab culture to engage in profound dialogue with Europe. This recognition stands as a testament to the vision of His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Member of the Supreme Council and Ruler of Sharjah.”

Al Ameri highlighted the enduring connections between Sharjah’s cultural institutions and their Greek counterparts, emphasizing the power of books as a universal language. He further outlined Sharjah’s journey as the Capital of Arab and Islamic Cultures, World Book Capital, and host of the world’s largest book fair since 2020.

Nikos Koukis, President of the Hellenic Foundation for Culture, expressed deep honor and confidence in celebrating Sharjah as the Guest of Honour. He noted the two-year collaboration in the making and anticipated that this partnership would strengthen cultural bonds between Greece, Sharjah, the UAE, and the Arab world.

Khoulah Al Majini, Director of Events and Marketing at SBA, emphasized Sharjah’s commitment to providing a vivid portrayal of Emirati and Arab culture at international book fairs. She highlighted the intention to convey the deep-rooted historical relations between Arab and Greek cultures through various mediums such as literature, music, and folk heritage.

The Thessaloniki International Book Fair, initiated in 2004, has evolved into a prominent platform for global literature. Organized by the Hellenic Foundation for Culture in collaboration with Greek publishers and supported by various entities, the fair showcases literary works from Greece, the Balkans, Western Europe, the Southeastern Mediterranean, and around the world. This collaboration underscores Sharjah’s dedication to promoting cultural exchange and dialogue on the international stage.

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Sharjah’s Cultural and Tourism Events Shine at WTM London

The Centre is part of an official delegation to the World Travel Market that includes a number of government and private sector entities from Sharjah…reports Asian Lite News

Expo Centre Sharjah (ECS) is currently participating in the 43rd edition of the World Travel Market, which is being held in London from 6th-8th November. During the event, ECS aims to promote the economic, cultural, and tourism events it organises and hosts throughout the year.

The Centre is part of an official delegation to the World Travel Market that includes a number of government and private sector entities from Sharjah, organised in cooperation with the Sharjah Commerce and Tourism Development Authority. The Emirate of Sharjah dispatched the delegation in the context of its efforts to review the current reality of tourism in Sharjah and the latest developments, actors, and projects in the field, while highlighting top Sharjah exhibitions.

Saif Mohammed Al Midfa, CEO of Expo Centre Sharjah, said, “Expo Centre Sharjah is pleased to participate in the World Travel Market in London in cooperation with the Sharjah Commerce and Tourism Development Authority. This major exhibition provides us with an opportunity to showcase the diverse economic, cultural, and tourism events we organise and host throughout the year, further enhancing Sharjah’s position on the global tourism map. Our participation in this event is part of our ongoing efforts to advance our international partnerships and offer investment opportunities in Sharjah.”

Al Midfa noted that, while participating in the World Travel Market, the Centre’s delegation is holding meetings with several major global entities and institutions, to strengthen cooperation and build new partnerships by ensuring the ECS offers the latest developments, amenities, and services for organising exhibitions and conferences.

Besides Expo Centre Sharjah, 18 government and private sector entities are participating in this year’s Sharjah Pavilion at the World Travel Market, in cooperation with the Sharjah Commerce and Tourism Development Authority.

The World Travel Market in London is a leading global event in the travel and tourism sector, allowing those interested in the tourism industry to learn about thousands of global destinations and brands. The event attracts top speakers, businessmen, and leaders from a diverse array of economic, tourism and cultural sectors.

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Sharjah Ruler’s Dh4.5M Grant to Enrich Libraries

The will help acquisition of publications presented by 2033 Arab and international publishers during the Sharjah International Book Fair….reports Asian Lite News

His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, has allocated AED 4.5 million for the acquisition of the latest publications presented by 2033 Arab and international publishers during the ongoing 42nd edition of the Sharjah International Book Fair. This initiative aims to furnish the public and government libraries in the Emirates with a diverse range of literary content.

This endeavour is deeply rooted in His Highness’s vision to bolster the publishing industry in the region and worldwide, thereby strengthening the prospects and success of publishers. Concurrently, it seeks to broaden the knowledge resources accessible to the communities of Sharjah and the UAE, encompassing readers, researchers, and students. Furthermore, it underscores the pivotal role of libraries in shaping a knowledge-based society and enhancing their contributions towards achieving a comprehensive and sustainable cultural renaissance.

Sheikha Bodour Al Qasimi, Chairperson of the Sharjah Book Authority, expressed, “The grant from His Highness is a continuation of Sharjah’s ongoing efforts to strengthen the publishing industry and enrich both public and government libraries. The support offered by the Sharjah Ruler each year enables publishers to continue to grow and expand. It also updates Sharjah’s libraries with new releases across genres of science, knowledge and literature, which enables them to better serve their members and visitors and continue fostering a knowledge-based society”.

She added, “SIBF has evolved into a holistic event that encompasses vital roles of book promotion, marketing as well as the enhancement of culture and knowledge-related activities. It has also emerged as a global platform that empowers publishers to overcome challenges through support, training, awards, and other resources. All these contributions have further solidified Sharjah’s appeal as a preferred destination for regional and international professionals in the book industry. Furthermore, the emirate’s libraries have become go-to destinations for students and researchers, owing to the wealth of knowledge and diverse range of books and publications they offer.”

The grant signifies a renewed commitment to support government and private libraries in the emirate, encompassing various scientific and literary disciplines in multiple languages. Each year, it enriches the libraries with thousands of new titles, further solidifying Sharjah’s reputation as one of the leading cities supporting initiatives for knowledge-based societies, actively contributing to the advancement of scientific research and the creation of substantial content.

SIBF Explores Ithra’s Global Impact

The ongoing Sharjah International Book Fair (SIBF 2023) recently hosted Saudi Arabia’s King Abdulaziz Centre for World Culture (Ithra) in an engaging session featuring esteemed members and past winners of its renowned reading competition.

Emphasising the centre’s dedication to its founding pillars of culture, creativity, community, art, and knowledge, the session exemplified Ithra’s mission to cultivate a vibrant literary community and encourage a deeper engagement with the word.

The esteemed panellists, comprising distinguished Ithra members, Tariq Khawaji, a cultural consultant at Ithra and supervisor of the Ithra Reading Program (iRead) and previous winners of the reading competition, Duaa Hassnin from Egypt and Sufyan al-Buraq, 2023 winner of Ithra competition from Morocco, offered insightful perspectives and personal anecdotes that underscored the transformative power of literature and the enduring impact of Ithra’s initiatives on their literary journeys.

Tariq Khawaji shared Ithra‘s journey since its establishment in 2018 to promote literacy and cultivate a dynamic cultural landscape. He stated that the Ithra reading competition began as a local literary event in the Al-Sharqiyyah region in eastern Saudi Arabia only to turn national in response to the high number of entries received in the first edition and, ultimately, into a regional competition for Arab readers and writers in the Arab world.

Sharing heartfelt accounts of their literary explorations and the impact of Ithra’s programmes on their academic aspirations, the panellists underscored the pivotal role of the reading competition in nurturing a lifelong love for reading and fostering a deep appreciation for diverse literary genres and narratives.

The session served as an inspiration for aspiring readers and literary enthusiasts attending the discussion at SIBF, which runs in Expo Centre Sharjah until 12th November, with the theme of “We Speak Books”.

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Neena Rocks Sharjah Book Fair

The two-time National Award-winning actor, filmmaker and producer fielded questions on the lack of a godfather in cinema, the casting couch phenomenon and her earlier life as a single unmarried mother…reports Asian Lite News

“I wouldn’t have written the book if I weren’t successful,” quipped veteran Indian actor Neena Gupta about her 2021 memoir Sach Kahun Toh: An Autobiography as she sent a houseful of fans into peals of laughter at the Sharjah International Book Fair happening at Expo Centre Sharjah.In a freewheeling conversation with journalist Manjusha Radhakrishnan, Neena Gupta regaled a rapt audience with a humorous,sardonic yet matter-of-fact take on her unconventional life and the Indian Hindi film industry.

Gupta, who was accompanied by her husband Vivek Mehra, refuted that it was a searing account of the ups and downs in her life “because it is dangerous to speak the truth”. “I haven’t revealed the most vulnerable part of my life though I have always been honest about the way I behave, dress, or eat. But because of my profession, the press made me look like someone else,” said the actor, who is best known for her 2018 movie Badhai Ho.

The two-time National Award-winning actor, filmmaker and producer fielded questions on the lack of a godfather in cinema, the casting couch phenomenon and her earlier life as a single unmarried mother. “Most of my life I worked for money because I had no money,” she opened up. National awards did not bring her many offers, and “if it weren’t for Badhai Ho, I would still be doing smaller roles”, she stated. Regarding her daughter Masaba, whose OTT release Masaba Masaba became a big hit, Gupta said she had dissuaded her from the field.

The actor said that she had chosen Covid to pen her witty and unapologetically funny memoir; the time was also right because some of her close kin had passed away and the revelations would no longer matter to them. She said she had “some good memories” about Masaba’s father cricketer Vivian Richards. Her advice to fans was to “move on in life whatever happens”.

Sach Kahun Toh (meaning To tell the Truth) chronicles Gupta’s extraordinary personal and professional journey – from her childhood days in Delhi, through her time at NSD, to moving to Bombay in the 1980s and dealing with the struggles to find work. It details the big milestones in her life, and a successful second innings in Bollywood. A candid, self-deprecating portrait of the person behind the persona, it talks about her life’s many choices, battling stereotypes, then and now.

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