Tag: FESTIVAL

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Kutle Khan to Enchant Kasauli Music Festival

Belonging to the 14th generation of musicians, Khan, who was also honoured as the ‘Best Folk Singer of the Year’ by the Indian Icon Film Awards in the year 2019, stresses that singing in Kasauli is always a treat…reports Asian Lite News

In his music, the tale is always continual. The narratives do not let go of the past but never shy away from embracing the sensibilities of the present. When he sings, multiple eras are recreated. The audience is forced to oscillate between the past and present, evoking both tradition and modernity.

Rajasthani folk musician Kutle Khan, who has mastered more than nine percussion instruments, and moves between genres with smoothness insists that it is important not to forget the past as it paves the way to the future. Perhaps that is the reason he is now exploring ancient Rajasthani songs and planning on presenting them in a format that is ‘accessible’ to the newer generation.

“Currently I am focusing on very old Rajasthani folk songs, and presenting them in a way that the young relate to them. I will be fusing them with newer instruments from both Indian and Western music to ensure that the young are acquainted with the richness of our culture. I want everyone to get touched by the wind of Rajasthani music,” he tells.

Khan, who will be at the Music Festival Kasauli — MKF 2024, curated by Naani Singh, that will be held on March 29 and 30 at Santa Roza, says, “People will get to listen to a lot of new sounds — from Rajasthani culture to my renditions of Ustad Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan’s best-known numbers.”

Khan, a singer and musician who plays dholak, khartal, bhapang, harmonium, sarangi, morchang, and also writes and composes his songs, moving with ease between different genres stresses, “Rajasthani folk is always the base in my work, no matter what. Of course, I also sing classical and Sufi, but the thrust is to introduce people to the enigmatic music of my state.”

Belonging to the 14th generation of musicians, Khan, who was also honoured as the ‘Best Folk Singer of the Year’ by the Indian Icon Film Awards in the year 2019, stresses that singing in Kasauli is always a treat.

“The ambience, the audience, the whisper of the winds from pine trees… everything becomes magical in this hill town that is unadulterated in the true sense. I always look forward to coming here.”

For someone who has performed in more than 80 countries, even in front of non-Indian audiences, it is the richness of folk that makes the audience ask for more.

“They are very open to new sounds and what they do to them. Of course, considering Western instruments are also incorporated, they do not feel completely alienated from what is happening on the stage. But their willingness to embrace what is not a part of their culture always touches me.”

Stressing that it is important for him to add contemporary elements to ancient Rajasthani folk, the musician says, “Look, I also want the young to acquaint themselves with our legacy. And what is wrong with including Western sounds? Frankly, I have never had a problem with purists as they also understand that certain elements need to be included to make folk ‘relevant’ to youngsters.”

However, in his much talked about ‘Sounds of Desert’, he sticks to pure Rajasthani folk.

“It is a musical production of 19 artists where the audiences get to listen to pure Rajasthani folk. There is no fusion. And it is always well received across age groups.”

Besides an active touring circuit, Khan, who also has TV shows like ‘Dewarists’, ‘MTV Unplugged’ and ‘Coke Studio India’ to his credit, feels multiple elements make Rajasthani folk enigmatic, thus ensuring full houses.

“We use multiple instruments, the tonal quality is unique and the pitch is high. Not to mention, our unique get-up. Precisely why you get to witness audience members stand up and start dancing.”

The artist, who has given his voice to movies like ‘Afwaah’ and several web series, besides Tollywood films and has five albums to his credit, is a firm believer in collaboration.

He has toured with Susheel Raman, Ranjit Barot, Amit Trivedi, Afsana Khan, Jonita Gandhi, Karsh Kale, Darhan Doshi Collective, and says, “Working with musicians across genres is always an enriching experience. You not only get acquainted with other schools but also begin to challenge yourself.”

Considering his popularity, the musician often gets calls from individuals to become their guru.

“Sadly, I am unable to do that. I have been travelling non-stop for the past 15 years, and it would be unfair to become a teacher if I am unable to give full attention to my students. However, I do guide them, telling them what to study, and looking up videos on streaming platforms.”

All set to perform in Maldives and London after Kasauli, he hopes, “I pray that youngsters acknowledge the richness of our own culture and what it has to offer.”

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Events Goa Lite Blogs

Goa’s Spring Festival Paints the Town with Tradition and Culture

Xenni Uzzo stands out as a thrilling fire ritual in South Goa. Annually, on the first full moon night following Shigmo, the village of Molcornem in Quepem, Goa, becomes the stage for a distinctive and age-old ceremony known as Xenni Uzzo…reports Asian Lite News

Every year, as the winter bids farewell and spring tiptoes in, the vibrant state of Goa in India bursts into a riot of colours and festivities. This traditional Hindu festival Shigmotsav, marks the arrival of spring and is celebrated with great fervour and enthusiasm. The festival which is set to be held from 26 March to 8 April in the entire state will come alive with cultural performances, float parades, music, and traditional dance during Shigmo.

As the colours of Shigmo paint the streets with exuberance, various other festivals prepare to showcase its diverse cultural heritage through a series of unique festivals. These festivals embody the essence of Goan traditions, each offering a distinct experience for travellers seeking to delve deeper into the soul of this coastal paradise. Witness a journey through five extraordinary festivals that add a splash of colour and a dash of excitement to the festivities alongside Shigmo in Goa.

Xenni Uzzo in Molcornem Sanguem, Embracing Goa’s Fiery Ritual: Xenni Uzzo stands out as a thrilling fire ritual in South Goa. Annually, on the first full moon night following Shigmo, the village of Molcornem in Quepem, Goa, becomes the stage for a distinctive and age-old ceremony known as Xenni Uzzo. This ritual serves dual purposes: it honours the village’s founding figures and beliefs while also commemorating the spring harvest festival.

Despite the rapid pace of modernization, the residents of Molcornem maintain a deep reverence for their traditional customs, particularly evident during Xenni Uzzo. Utilizing natural resources, such as dry cow dung cakes, locally termed “Xenni,” and leaves, they generate sparks, referred to as “Uzzo,” by striking these elements together. Encircling the resultant fire, villagers partake in spirited dances, while men transport areca nut tree trunks from carefully selected plantations near the Mallikarjun temple.

Ghode Modni in Thane, Sattari, a Spectacle of Horses and Warriors: Ghode Modni, meaning ‘horse dance,’ is a unique festival celebrated in the villages of Thane, Sattari and other places. This centuries-old tradition showcases a spectacular display of horsemanship and martial arts, with performers dressed as warriors riding decorated horses. The rhythmic sound of hooves and the colourful attire of the performers create a mesmerizing spectacle that captivates audiences. The Ghode Modni folk dance emerges as a significant highlight of the Shigmo festival celebrated during the harvest season in Goa. Etymologically, “Ghode” translates to “horse,” while “Modni” signifies “joyful,” encapsulating the essence of the performance.

Chorotsav in Zarme, Unveiling the Charms of Goan Villages: Chorotsav, also known as the ‘festival of thieves,’ is a quirky celebration held in the village of Zarme in Sattari Taluka. This offbeat festival pays homage to the folklore of Goan villages, with locals dressing up as mischievous thieves and engaging in playful antics. From mock robberies to comedic performances, Chorotsav offers a lighthearted glimpse into the humour and creativity of Goan culture.

At the festival, four participants are buried with only their heads protruding, while another four have their heads submerged in pits. This symbolic act represents a tragic incident from centuries past when thieves were mistakenly executed. The spectacle draws a crowd of both locals and intrigued spectators, who observe with a mixture of fascination and anticipation as the eight individuals are interred alive.

Fiery Rituals of Homkund Utsav in Charao, a Spectacle of Devotion and Tradition: In the quaint village of Charao, nestled amidst the lush greenery of Goa, the Homkund Utsav takes on a fiery intensity, offering a unique spectacle of devotion and tradition. Here, amidst the tranquil surroundings, locals gather to perform age-old rituals that pay homage to their ancestors and seek blessings for prosperity and well-being. 

The festival entails igniting a pyramidal stack of wood, typically measuring around five to six feet in height. Once the wood is reduced to smouldering ashes, local men and boys participate in a remarkable ritual, traversing barefoot across the scorching embers to the rhythmic accompaniment of traditional percussion instruments like the dhol, tasha, and cymbals. This spirited and mesmerizing event witnesses the participation of hundreds of individuals as they bravely tread upon the fiery path.

Shisha Ranni in Canacona: Where Devotion Cooks Blessings on Fire: Shisha Ranni is a traditional festival deeply rooted in Goan culture in Canacona. During this ritual, rice is cooked atop the heads of three Gades, which are humanoid representations of divinity on Earth. Interestingly, the term ‘Ranni’ directly translates to ‘stove,’ emphasizing the central element of this ceremony.

In a remarkable display of devotion, three villagers from Canacona taluka’s Gaondongorim voluntarily offer their heads as makeshift stoves for cooking rice over a wood fire. 

From the colourful extravaganza of Shigmo to the quaint charm of village festivals, Goa offers a diverse array of cultural experiences for visitors to explore. Whether you’re captivated by the pulsating beats of traditional music or tempted by the tantalizing flavours of Goan cuisine, these unique festivals promise to enchant and delight you at every turn. So pack your bags, immerse yourself in the festivities, and embark on a journey of discovery through the vibrant tapestry of Goa’s culture. Visit the Goa Tourism Website for more information https://goatourism.gov.in/ 

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Konkan Festival Celebrates a Decade of Promoting Konkan’s Development

Many innovative activities such as house boat tourism, white water rafting, nature tourism, salt and fresh water fish farming, bamboo cultivation, spice farming which are being implemented in the villages of Konkan thus providing youth with employment opportunities in the region…reports Asian Lite News

The Global Konkan Festival is organized every year to promote and spread the natural beauty, tourism places, industry, folk art, culture of Konkan. India is the centre of world economy and Mumbai is the centre of India’s economy and Konkan region is part of the growing metropolis of Mumbai, will stage the mega 10th Global Konkan Festival, which is dedicated to the development of Konkan.

Agriculture, tourism and fisheries are the three major industries of Konkan development. 60% to 70% of youth in Konkan get employment from these three industries. The mega event will host a series of panel discussions and seminars under “Kokan Vikas Conference” which is aimed to benefit the people and industries in the Konkan region. Global Konkan Festival will be organized for the first time in Thane district on a grand scale. The festival and grand exhibition is organized at Sant Savalaram Mhatre Maharaj Sports Complex Dombivli East from 25th to 30th January. Member of Parliament Dr. Shrikant Shinde is the Chairperson of this festival.

If Konkan is to be truly developed sustainably, Tourism, Agriculture and Fisheries should be given maximum attention. “Konkan Vikas Conference” has been organized on these topics and the series of conferences will hold discussion sessions on important topics on tourism, fisheries, sustainable agriculture and horticulture, infrastructure and industry, co-operatives and community projects in Konkan development. At the same time, Global Konkan Festival will have nearly 300 stalls and more than 1000 entrepreneurs from all over Konkan participating in this grand exhibition.

Sanjay Yadavrao, Chief Organizer, Global Konkan Festival said, “Agriculture, Tourism and Fisheries are the three main industries of Konkan development, besides mango, cashew, agriculture, fish industry, fruit processing, and food processing industry. This year, in these conferences, we will decide the next year’s road map and action plan for Konkan development. This Konkan Vision Document will be prepared with the help of farmers, entrepreneurs and experts who are actually working in Konkan and will hand it over to the government. The fisheries industry economy is around 15000 crores, Hapus mango, cashew nut, coconut, betel nuts and agriculture together are thousands of crores economy, tourism industry is almost 5000 crores economy. We envision a future where our youth thrive locally, instead of migrating to cities like Mumbai or Pune and can harness the potential of our evolving landscape with projects in agriculture, fisheries and tourism.”

Many innovative activities such as house boat tourism, white water rafting, nature tourism, salt and fresh water fish farming, bamboo cultivation, spice farming which are being implemented in the villages of Konkan thus providing youth with employment opportunities in the region. Information about the government schemes like of Industries Department, Fisheries Department, Rural Development Department, Tourism Department, Annasaheb Patil Corporation and other government departments to establish industries in the rural areas of Konkan will be shared.

Konkan is going to change rapidly in the next 15-20 years, with newly developed green field highways like Shivdi Nhava Sea Link, Panvel Airport, Alibag Virar Freeway, Uran to Vengurla Coastal Highway, Samriddhi Highway, Dighi Industrial Corridor, JNPT and Dighi most important ports in the country. Due to this, in the future the youth of Konkan will be able to stay in their village in Konkan and work in the third Mumbai in the newly developing Greater Mumbai. There will be extensive discussions in these conferences in terms of staying in Konkan while working in Mumbai, setting up tourism, agriculture and other industries, developing their lands in Konkan instead of selling them. In these conferences, information can be obtained from the major departments like MMRDA, CIDCO, MSRDC, Maharashtra Maritime Board, JNPT, Water Resources Department etc. about what changes are going to happen in Konkan in the next year.

This year’s Global Konkan has been organized on a grand scale under the guidance of Hon’ble Chief Minister of the state Eknathrao Shinde. On the occasion of Global Konkan, a constructive campaign will be kick started in the form of collecting the basic issues of Konkan and giving a definite plan to the government, and follow up consistently to solve some important issues. Shri. Prasad Lad(MLA) and Zilla Pramukh Gopal Landge are organaizers for this event.

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Events Lite Blogs

Festival of Hope Foundation Gears Up for a Night of Inspiration and Fundraising

The Festival of Hope Foundation has been promoting cancer awareness across Delhi NCR via health camps, events, etc. They also host an annual fundraiser that supports the treatment of a few children fighting cancer…reports Asian Lite News

To honour the strength and spirit of cancer warriors, the 16th season of the Festival of Hope is scheduled for February 4th, 2024, at The Grand Hyatt Gurgaon.

The Festival of Hope Foundation has been promoting cancer awareness across Delhi NCR via health camps, events, etc. They also host an annual fundraiser that supports the treatment of a few children fighting cancer.

The efforts of leaders of hope to instill wisdom and encouragement foster optimism and inspiration for a better future. Sonali Gupta, MBBS MD Dr. Anjali Hooda, Dr. Sameer Gupta, Dr. Sonia Lal Gupta, Celebrity Fitness Expert Kitty Kalra, TEDx Speaker and influencer Harpreet Suri, Executive Director of PVR INOX Ltd. Sanjeev Kumar Bijli, Managing Editor Chaiti Narula, and Influencer Kaniz Rabbi, and many others will support the cause.

“Extremely grateful to all who continuously support us. Especially our health partners this season, the Metro hospitals have graciously offered to treat a few patient’s pro bono,” says Shalini Vig, founder of the Festival of Hope Foundation.

“It’s such a beautiful cause to be associated with, and I’m honored to dress the Leaders of Hope this season,” commented the designer on board, Sahil Kochhar.

Dr Sameer Gupta (Director – Metro Group of Hospitals) mentioned, “As we come together to honor strength and resilience, let’s cherish the understanding that every little contribution matters. Our combined actions today sow the seeds of hope for a healthier tomorrow. Cancer, often discussed yet least understood, takes the spotlight on this occasion, emphasizing not only the significance of awareness but also how society, united, can support those deprived of treatment due to financial constraints or lack of awareness.”

“The Festival of Hope is a beacon of support, uniting us all in the fight against this formidable adversary. Metro Group of Hospitals shares the same ethos when it comes to treating cancer patients. We take pride in being part of this cause. Together, with Metro’s commitment to providing pro bono treatment, we aim to make a significant impact, inspiring resilience, and paving the way for a brighter future.” says Dr Sonia Lal Gupta (Director – Metro Group of Hospitals)

Many prominent people, including cancer warriors, doctors, and influencers, will promote the Festival.

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Food Lite Blogs

Festive Wisdom from Ayurveda

Consume sweets in the early part of the meal, followed by sour and salt items, backed up by foods with pungent, bitter, and astringent tastes…reports Asian Lite News

Every festival celebration involves a distinct selection of dishes and desserts. Consuming sweets may create a nice feeling and relieve weariness, but be cautious, take adequate precautions, and be conscious of one’s necessities.

Dr Subhash S. Markande, a consulting ayurveda physician, at CGH Earth, Swaswara shares some principles to boost overall well-being, and benefits and find ways to incorporate them.

Consume hot and fresh foods only, eat fried foods within three hours of preparation and plan your meals wisely.

Drinking hot /warm water with food is always the best option to resolve many digestive issues during festivals.

Consume boiled water as per individual requirements. Consuming water boiled with coriander seeds or cumin seeds will be useful to support digestion.

Consume sweets in the early part of the meal, followed by sour and salt items, backed up by foods with pungent, bitter, and astringent tastes.

If you feel heavy after meals, skip the next meal; support your digestion by not loading it again and giving it time to recover.

If you have a low appetite ensure that you have well-cooked and light foods on the onset of proper appetite.

Maintain the gap between the meals properly; do not consume any kind of food in between meals.

Consume buttermilk processed with ginger, cumin, and rock salt in the lunch which improves the gut health.

Avoid sweets, milk products, and fried food in the dinner. Go for light-cooked food or some soups.

Do not mix milk and milk products with vegetables or nonveg as they act antagonistic to each other.

Avoid non-veg as it is the festive season; let the animals be at peace in the festival.

Dry fruits are a rich source of multivitamins and minerals. Hence when processed with food  

Items in sweets preparations will be heavy for digestion. Use dry fruits like cashews, badam, figs, dates, raisins, lichies, wall nuts, dry grapes, etc in moderation. Limit the quantity of other food while consuming sweets.

All fried items are heavy for digestion and consuming them in the early part of the meal with the food is advisable (have a check on the quantity). 

Chew a small piece of ginger with rock salt or a pinch of jeera it helps to avoid acid reflux.

Overdoing anything is not good, so maintain a balance in food proportions, have heavy foods in less quantity and light foods in better quantity, and consume appetizers in between to balance.

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Food Lite Blogs

Festive Season Delights

Festival seasons are that time of year during which our health goals tend to take a back seat. Many times, given all the culinary temptations on offer everywhere, even getting back on track after the festival season seems not just difficult but impossible.

To stay on the right track we need to maintain at least a few healthy habits during this period which can be achieved by sticking with simple, healthy recipes. Here’s where RAW recipe options for traditional festival dishes are the perfect answer and replacement which will go a long way in ensuring that one does not feel deprived during the festive season! Here are some recipes curated by Chef Joy Mathew, Wellness Chef at Prakriti Shakti.

DATE SQUARE

Ingredients:

Date                                     

Orange juice                     

Pistachio             

Almond               

Cinnamon powder           

Orange zest

Method:

Soak the dates in orange juice and cinnamon powder for 2 hours.

Coarsely blend the nuts in a jar and mix the soaked dates and orange zest and pulse the two times and make in to thick dough.

Shape in to a square mould and serve.

ANJEER BURFI

Ingredients:

Dry fig sliced                                              

Soft dates chopped                               

Pistachio chopped                  

Cardamom powder                                

Honey                                                          

Method:

In blender, add sliced fig and pulse it two to three times.

Add chopped soft dates, cardamom powder and pulse the mixture again.

Take out the mix and knead well with hand.

Shape the mix into squares in a pan and glaze it with honey.

Cut and serve in desired size and garnish with pistachio slice.

APRICOT BITES

Ingredients

Dried apricots chopped                        

Dried grated coconut                            

Vanilla powder                                           

Raisins chopped                      

Method:

Add all ingredients in the food processor and blend till it forms “dough”.

Make gooseberry size balls and rolled it in dried grated coconut.

BROWNIE  BITE

Ingredients:

Cocoa nibs                 

Almond                       

Walnuts                      

Dates                                           

Vanilla                          

Salt

Method:

Powder the cocoa nibs in a blender.

Add walnut and vanilla salt and pulse again.

Add dates and blend well, don’t blend too much it will release the walnut oil.

Remove from blender in to bowl.

And make small dumplings and roll over little cocoa nibs and serve.

PUMPKIN ENERGY BITES

Ingredients

Pitted soft dates chopped          

Pumpkin grated                                               

Dried grated coconut                    

Walnut chopped                             

Vanilla bean powder                     

Cinnamon powder                         

Nutmeg powder                             

Salt                                                        

Method:

Reserve 20 gm grated dry coconut  

Blend the rest to obtain dough consistency

Form the dough to small balls

Coat the ball the reserved dry coconut and serve

RAW CHOCOLATE BROWNIE


Ingredients for Brownie

Soft dates chopped                               

Peanut powder                       

Walnut coarsely powder      

Almond powder                      

Cacao powder                                          

Vanilla bean powder                               

Salt                                                                

Ingredients for Glazing

Honey                                                          

Water                                          

Cacao powder                                          

Vanilla powder                         

Method:

Grind the all nuts separately in a coffee grinder (or food processor) until powder.  De-seed and chop the soft dates.

Blend all nut powder and walnut coarse in food processor add dates and mix well and make like dough and moulded in a tray.

Combine the glaze ingredients in a blender and make in to a smooth sauce that can be poured over the brownie.

Cut a square piece and garnished with tender coconut and cashew nuts sauce.

COCONUT WALNUT BAR

Ingredients:

Walnut                                        

Almond powder      

Raisins                                         

Dehydrated coconut             

Fresh grated coconut            

Cardamom powder                

Method:

Blend the raisins in blender in paste form.

Add walnut and blend again in to powder form.

Change to mixing bowl add rest of the ingredients and mix well.

Arrange on tray in to 1 cm height and cut in to diamond shape and serve.

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Arts & Culture Lite Blogs

India Art Festival’s Cultural Oasis in Delhi

The India Art Festival has been a nurturing ground for young and emerging artists who push the boundaries of imagination. This year, visitors can expect to be captivated by an array of mediums, subjects, and styles that reflect the unbridled form of artistic expression from all corners of India…reports Asian Lite News

Prepare for a breathtaking burst of colours and an exuberant celebration of boundless creativity as the India Art Festival makes a grand return to the heart of Delhi this November! With 400 talented artists presenting 3,500 exquisite artworks across 100 captivating booths at the Constitution Club of India on Rafi Marg, this year’s edition of the India Art Festival promises to deliver an immersive sensory experience like no other.

From November 2nd to 5th, 2023, the Constitution Club of India will be transformed into a cultural oasis, offering not only a visual feast but also a multitude of fusion shows, live music performances, mesmerizing live painting demonstrations, and captivating film screenings. A standout feature of the event is the enlightening film “The Eternal Canvas – 12,000 Years Journey through Indian Art,” a cinematic exploration of India’s rich artistic heritage spanning millennia. This cinematic journey provides a sweeping overview of the evolution of Indian art, from prehistoric times to contemporary expressions.

Founded in 2011, the India Art Festival has emerged as a premier contemporary art fair in India, especially for emerging, mid-career artists along with mid-level art galleries. While this marks the 8th edition of the India Art Festival in New Delhi, it’s a significant milestone as the 25th edition of this celebrated event, hosted across Delhi, Mumbai, and Bengaluru. With a strong presence in three major metropolitan cities, the India art festival has become a coveted platform for young and emerging artists, mid-level art galleries, art collectors, and art enthusiasts alike.

Rajendra Patil, the founder director of India Art Festival, who also serves as the President of the Bombay Art Society, one of the oldest Indian art institutions founded in 1888, and Editor & Publisher of the Indian Contemporary Art Journal, a quarterly art magazine, says, “The primary inspiration behind initiating the India Art Festival back in 2011 was to create a platform that showcases and promotes contemporary art in India, with a particular focus on young emerging artists and mid-level art galleries, as it is often challenging for them to access such platforms or enter the art fair circuit due to huge cost factor.”

This year’s India Art Festival in New Delhi will feature performances by renowned artists and musicians, including Padma Shri Pandit Satish Vyas (Santoor), Vasudeo Kamath (Visual Art), S Akash (Flute), Prakash Bal Joshi (Visual Art), Mehtab Ali Niazi (Sitar), Ranjit Sarkar(visual art), Kamal Devnath(visual art) and many others. Yashvant Vaishnav will accompany the celebrations with the tunes of Tabla.

A diverse array of art galleries will be exhibiting at the festival, including names like Artecious Gallery, Artifire, Aura Planet, Eminent Art Gallery, Healing Art Foundation, MagicSimSim, Rang Mirage Art Gallery, Speaking Art Foundation, Studio 55 Art Gallery, Sudha Art Creations and Uchaan (all Delhi-NCR) ArtSage, Artvista, Bouquet of Art Gallery, Kalastrot, Nitya Artists Centre, Rhythm Art, Studio Pankaj Bawdekar, Traditions Art Gallery, Kavetaartz (Dubai), Narendra Art (Udaipur), Visual Line Gallery (USA-New Delhi), and Arpitam Kala Mandir (Kolkata), SUVIDA(Uttarakhand). Each gallery promises to bring a unique perspective to the world of contemporary art.

This year’s festival brings together a rich tapestry of artistic styles and expressions. Notable artists and their captivating works are showcased in carefully curated booths, making the India Art Festival a must-visit event for art lovers.

From stylized figurative to abstract compositions, traditional Flavors, architectural grandiosity, landscapes, religious art, and wildlife art, the festival promises something for everyone. The works on display range from the delicate and the physical to abstract compositions and intricate details that beckon viewers to take a closer look.

Kalastrot Gallery stands out, showcasing a curated selection of exquisite artworks in various styles and mediums. The featured artists, including Arti Vora, Atish Mukherjee, Deepali Sarde, Dhiren Sasmal; not to forget Nalini Joshi who is presenting captivating pieces that pay homage to bygone eras, evoking the nostalgia of rotary dial telephones, vintage Vespa scooters, and the cherished simplicity of life.

Rang Mirage Art Gallery takes viewers on an intriguing journey with a carefully curated booth featuring the best of the best. Artists like Ajay Samir, Amit Bhar, Kishor Roy, Malvika Kapoor, Pulakesh Mandal, Ram Onkar, Ranjit Sarkar, Savya Jain, Shambhu Nath Goswami, Shyamal Mukherjee, Sukant Das, Uma Shankar Pathak, and many more are exhibiting works that promise to captivate, each with their unique background and style.

SUVIDA, the Society for Upliftment of Villagers and Development of Himalayan Areas, offers a unique experience by showcasing traditional art fusion, created by artists from the region. This fusion art draws inspiration from various Indian provincial schools, offering a rich tapestry of creativity.

Uchaan Gallery takes visitors on a journey through figurative and semi-abstract works. Here, you can explore the creations of artists like Ayush Agarwal, Marcel Wissing, Salony Garg, Sonal Johar, and a solo exhibition by the talented artist Smita Jain.

Studio 55 from New Delhi introduces a diverse range of artists working in different styles, including Anjali Mittal, Bhavna Sagar, Deepshikha Gupta, Monica Singh, and Shashi Lata, each presenting their unique artistic perspectives.

Rhythm Art presents a meticulously curated selection of artists, including Arvind Mahajan, Dnyaneshwar Mane, K Prakash, Manoj Das, Paras Parmar, Rajan Raghavan, and Suhas Vyavarkar, among others. The booth is a must-visit for art enthusiasts.

Bouquet of Art Gallery from Mumbai, the brainchild of Anjali Arora, offers an interesting mix of figurative, abstract, and traditional art. Visitors can expect to be captivated by the range of artistic expressions on display.

Narendra Arts from Udaipur takes pride in its traditional art, offering a glimpse into the rich heritage of Indian artistic traditions. The Speaking Art Foundation showcases artworks in various mediums, featuring artists like Neeraj Sharma, Ashoo Malik, Deeksha Bajaj Thapar, Mahua Sinha, Manomoy Das, Monika Dewangan, Priyanka Bardhan, Remi Poddar, Remya Brijesh, and Swati Deb from different parts of India, offering a diverse and eclectic range of artistic perspectives. Artvista from Mumbai is showcasing eclectic mix of artworks by artists like Kumar Gaikwad, Subrata Malakar, Mohit Bhardwaj, Vishwajeet Naik and others.

The India Art Festival has been a nurturing ground for young and emerging artists who push the boundaries of imagination. This year, visitors can expect to be captivated by an array of mediums, subjects, and styles that reflect the unbridled form of artistic expression from all corners of India.

The festival showcases a breathtaking landscape, featuring lush green grass, serene water bodies adorned with lotus flowers, and captivating landscape paintings. Artists such as Nisha Dial, Sriparna Sinha, Sanjiv Nath, Burmadevi Barkha, Anubha Kaw, Sachin Deep Singh, Sourabh Pramanik, Sunil Gupta, Kalaiarasi Abhilash, Yogesh Barve, and Rahul Naskar, offer an immersive experience into the beauty of the natural world.

Several booths at the festival are bound to leave a lasting impression. Shruthi Challani’s stylized still life, Seema Sethi’s traditional-inspired paintings, and Prateek Kushwaha’s exceptional wildlife art are some of the highlights. Artist Pooja Bansal’s exploration of vintage wooden doors, windows, and furniture, Shruti Kasana’s artworks capturing a diverse spectrum of human emotions, along with Amrish Malvankar’s distinctive perspectives, will make the viewer take a second look at them. Artists with diverse backgrounds, such as Kanishka Mehra, a dentist turned artist creating a fusion of the delicate and the physical, where interwoven strings find their anchor in pins, resulting in captivating, three-dimensional pieces. Anuja Aggarwal’s abstract compositions capture the essence of flowing alcoholic inks, while Gunjan Garg’s works beckon viewers to explore intricate details and captivating beauty.

Honey Gupta’s abstract art involves the convergence of ropes, jute, paper, and raw canvas, transcending boundaries and celebrating the unrefined beauty of life. Meanwhile, Manju Srivatsa’s watercolors tell enchanting tales through polychromatic flowers on paper. Neha Jhunjhunwala’s creations of Buddha and dreamy landscapes not only infuse colors but also imbue character into the spaces they adorn, providing a sensory experience that transcends the ordinary.

Among the exhibiting artists, Nisha Ballani shines through her remarkable ability to craft white-on-white abstract floral sculptures on canvas, while artist Reena Nasik’s stylized hyper-realistic oil paintings reflect her commitment to self-discipline and perfection. Simi Biswas and Varun Kumar are on a mission to revive the exquisite hand embroidery traditions of ancient India and fuse them with their lifelong love for mythology through their brand Magicsimsim. Dr. Simple Mohanty Pani’s enduring passion for capturing nature’s captivating beauty is evident in every brushstroke, whereas Dhanashree Wazalwar introduces her latest art series, ‘Energy of Stags and Antler,’ aiming to captivate the essence of strength, gentleness, innocence, and more through the enigmatic image of the stag displayed at the art fest. Kavita Sachdev explores the raw energy and beauty of horses through her stylized works, while Om Thadkar captures the beauty of black-on-black in his charcoal paintings. Pankaj Bawdekar’s religiously inebriated musicians in the dance procession and Alka Pandey’s mixed media creations delve into themes of faith, spirituality, and the intricate sociocultural tapestry, offering highly symbolic works. Antra Srivastav’s highly symbolic works are a visual poetry that requires multiple readings. As a known name in the world of art, Antra Srivastav has been a part of the India Art Festival for over a decade. Ratnesh Dubey, exhibiting at the art festival, specializes in woodcut prints, while Meenakshi Dubey showcases her wooden sculptures, adding unique elements to the art fest.

There are many other artists exhibiting in the artists’ pavilion at the India Art Festival, including legendary artist Prabhu Joshi, artist Nisha Sehjpal, Sapna Gupta, Nikita Tater, Srinidhi Dabriwal, Pawani Nagpal, Shruti Gupta, Atul Gendale, Anaya Jetha, Prashant Yampure, Paridhi Jain, Mousmi Sarkar, Neena Makhija, Vinayak Sarwankar, Nagesh Devkar, Pradip Ghadge, Subir Das, Naveen Dholkhediya, Ritu Kwatra, Lalit Patil, Katalin Steger, Kakali Nag Das, Manish Kumar, Supriya Kaluskar, Aanchal Garg, Sudha Adarsh, Pallavi Gangwal, Ghanshyam Gupta, Rupali Khanna, Cheena Madan, Shaleen Khandelwal, Gautam Das, Parmesh Pal, Om Rajput, Prakash Bal Joshi, Kevin Massey, Sangeeta Pamnani, Alka Seth, Navya Kwatra, Rupesh Pawar, Asmita Shah, Beenu Tandon, Neha Vadehra, Shashikant Patade, R K Bhatnagar, Suvvro Basu, Collins Osemeke, and many others.

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Annual wellness festival with exciting and exclusive experiences

The latest edition marries a steadfast commitment to self-care, wellness, and personal transformation with the participants’ specific passions and interests. As a result, the festival’s program hosts a wide range of activities… reports Asian Lite News

Travellers seeking to be healthier in mind, body and soul and embark on a more fulfilling and well-adjusted lifestyle journey can participate at the Wellness Festival Singapore (WFS) 2023. Running till July 9 2023, the one-of-a-kind annual wellness festival offers visitors highly diverse, creative and accessible experiences in the heart of the city.

The WFS follows the stellar success of its inaugural edition in 2022, which saw local and international visitors flock to the island city to experience holistic wellness sessions on offer. It will host several enriching activities across popular tourist hotspots, from the iconic Marina Bay Sands to the sunny beaches of Sentosa Island, and picturesque Jewel Changi Airport, with the world’s largest indoor waterfall and Shiseido Forest Valley. In keeping with its inclusive approach, the range of wellness activities offered at the festival will cater to different passion points, preferences, age groups and abilities.

Speaking on Festival, GB Srithar, Regional Director – India, Middle East, South Asia & Africa, Singapore Tourism Board (STB) said, “The Wellness Festival Singapore plays an important role in presenting Singapore as a premier Urban Wellness destination that offers holistic well-being experiences. Building upon last year’s success, the expanded programmes this year serve up a diverse, enriching range of wellness offerings set in scenic locations across the city. Travellers from India could take time out to join the local participants to enjoy and celebrate holistic wellbeing while on holiday or business trip.”

 Audrey Tong, Director, Physical Activity and Weight Management, Health Promotion Board said, “We are delighted to partner with the Singapore Tourism Board to curate the fitness programmes for Wellness Festival Singapore 2023, as it aligns with our end-goal to promote active living and enriching lifestyles. With our fitness partners offering close to 40 activities throughout the festival, we look forward to participants, whether individuals, peer groups, or families, enjoying a holistic range of workouts and exercises that cater to their specific fitness needs and levels.”

The latest edition marries a steadfast commitment to self-care, wellness, and personal transformation with the participants’ specific passions and interests. As a result, the festival’s program hosts a wide range of activities. For instance, those interested in nature-based experiencesmay go hiking and biking along the popular Coast-to-Coast Trail, explore the island’s rich wildlife and megafauna at the Bukit Batok Park, bird-watch at the expansive and open Bird Paradise, or do a little shirin-roku ‘forest bathing’. Art lovers can choose from a variety of art exhibitions, creative workshops, and therapy classes hosted by ArtScience Museum and Art For Good, amongst others, for mindfulness, creative expression, and cathartic healing.

Along with experiencing the invigorating activities and culinary delights, the Festival also offers an unparalleled opportunity to dive deep into the local culture .and landscape with activities such as market-to-table culinary experiences and horticulture cooking. These are complemented by physical fitness related activities such as kickboxing, high-intensity workouts, yoga, and meditation, as well as workshops such as “Where Mind and Body Connect”, which aim to nurture a sense of mindfulness and improve the connection between mind and body.

In the midst of this wellness haven, one could take in the pristine beauty of Sentosa, by hoping into the Zentosa LiveWELL Festival, featuring over 250 activities across five holistic pillars of wellness: physical wellness, mind and soul nurturing, relationship building, healthy eating, and mindful resting. For a regular jet-setter, the Jewel Changi Airport offers free fitness classes set against the backdrop of the HSBC Rain Vortex, the world’s largest indoor waterfall. This unique and grand setting provides attendees with a remarkable and memorable wellness experience.

Several exclusive and eclectic wellness experiences await participants at the Festival, like the Beats Performance Therapy, a fusion of fitness and music and Animal Yoga at the River Wonders, that encourages participants to embody the physical and spiritual qualities associated with different creatures. Other novel activities include ‘Cacao Ceremony + Sound Journey’, which combines the ancient healing practice of cacao with a soothing sound journey to uplift mood and alleviate stress.

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Lodhi festival celebrating the spirit of New Delhi

A street festival at Lodhi Art District in New Delhi.(photo:IANSLIFE)

The festival adds to its significance and emphasises the part that art can play in defining and reflecting our cultural identity by being organised as a part of the celebration of India’s G20 presidency…reports Asian Lite News

On March 18 and 19, 2023, Lodhi Art District, India’s first art district with more than 65 murals by Indian and foreign artists, will host a two-day arts festival with live murals, music, shows, curated walks, and community activities. The Lodhi event, is the Kiran Nadar Museum of Art’s (KNMA) first-ever street event, proudly presented in association with the St+art India Foundation.

The festival adds to its significance and emphasises the part that art can play in defining and reflecting our cultural identity by being organised as a part of the celebration of India’s G20 presidency.

Highlights of the festival include ongoing murals on the famous Lodhi Art District walls by two artists especially chosen for the festival, curated and commissioned by KNMA and St+art – Paolo Delfin of Mexico and Andha Ras from Malaysia, a shadow installation by urban artist Daku and a series of workshops offering a plethora of opportunities for visitors to explore art at the street. The festival will also feature a fantastic lineup of performers and musicians from all over India, showcasing a variety of styles and traditions – the performing art of Lavani from Maharashtra, the incredible virtuosity of Karsh Kale ft. the energy of Dharavi Reloaded, the physical acrobatic exploration of Omaggio, and the lure of the Manganiyar Seduction in a visually stunning set that has been performed worldwide, are the headlining acts of the festival.

A street festival at Lodhi Art District in New Delhi.(photo:IANSLIFE)

Kiran Nadar, Chairperson, Kiran Nadar Museum of Art commented, “We are thrilled to be bringing the Lodhi festival celebrating the spirit of New Delhi during India’s historic presidency of G20. Whilst we have a dedicated outreach programme within the museum, this initiative highlights our efforts to take art outside of the museum space making it accessible and offer the public another innovative way to engage with and celebrate India’s vibrant cultural and artistic heritage.”

Enhancing the already expansive range of events on offer at the museum, the Lodhi Festival is an extension of the museum’s vision of bridging the gap between art and public and encourage viewers to explore different aspects of art, at the crossroads of culture and performance and also engage with the local communities and creating meaningful experiences for visitors. By doing this, the museum aims to broaden its appeal, draw in new, diverse audiences, and advance its goal of fostering a culture of museum-going.

St+ Art India Foundation team, “Eight years in the making, the Lodhi Art District is St+art’s first art district, out of six ongoing ones across the country. We are pleased to be activating it once again, in collaboration with the Kiran Nadar Museum of Art and G20. Since 2014, with the support of Asian Paints, the foundation has enabled and cultivated a vision for democratised public spaces through interdisciplinary art interventions that are rooted in the social context. Similarly, at the Lodhi Art Festival, through murals, workshops, and performances, we hope to continue to engage the public imagination by connecting communities and providing a platform for diverse artists and cultural exchange.”

A street festival at Lodhi Art District in New Delhi.(photo:IANSLIFE)

Ongoing exhibitions at the museum:

At KNMA, Noida

Sitaare Zameen Par

Photographs of Bombay Cinestars from the Golden Era By JH Thakker

7 February 2023 – 30 April 2023

At KNMA, Saket

Pop South Asia: Artistic Explorations in the Popular

9 February 2023 – 30 April 2023

Free entry

10:30 A.M. – 6:30 P.M.

The museum is closed on Monday and all public holidays

The festival is free to attend, visit the link for a day-by-day schedule and workshop registration: https://insider.in/lodhi-festival-mar18-2023/event

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Stellar line-up for Jaipur Literature Festival

Jaipur Literature Festival announces a stellar line-up for its 2023 edition

The Festival will also feature some of the award-winning historians like Tom Holland, Alex von Tunzelmann, David Olusoga, Edward Chancellor, and Katy Hessel, amongst others…reports Asian Lite News

The legendary Jaipur Literature Festival, which honours the value of literature, is scheduled to take place from January 19 through January 23, 2023. For its 2023 edition, the literary extravaganza will celebrate the best in fiction, non-fiction, food, history, current affairs and politics, AI and technology, translations, poetry, adaptations and music, language, climate crisis, noir, identity, medicine and health, and cryptocurrency and economy at Hotel Clarks, Amer, Jaipur. The event will feature a prestigious host of speakers, authors, and humanitarians.

The final set of speakers, announced today, comprises some of the world’s best thinkers, writers, and speakers, including writer Akshaya Mukul; author Alka Saraogi; author Amia Srinivasan; publisher Ananda Devi; Pulitzer-Prize winning author Caroline Elkins; academic David Wengrow; 2022 Hasselblad Award recipientDayanita Singh; member of Lok Sabha Feroze Varun Gandhi; Indian Monk and the winner of the prestigious Dadasaheb Phalke International Film Festival Award, Gaur Gopal Das; flute maestro Pandit Hariprasad Chaurasia; scriptwriter, lyricist and poet Javed Akhtar; author Jonathan Freedland; award-winning correspondent for The Guardian Luke Harding; academic and author Maryam Aslany; author Merlin Sheldrake; CEO of cult.fit Mukesh Bansal and Co-Founder and Chairman of Infosys Technologies Limited Nandan Nilekani.

Why you can’t miss the Jaipur Literature Festival 2022.(photo:IANSLIFE)

The much-anticipated list goes on to mention filmmaker Onir; historian and writer Orlando Figes; 2007 Ramon Magsaysay Award for Journalism Literature and Creative Communications Arts P Sainath; Sahitya Akademi Golden Jubilee Award and the JLF Mahakavi Kanhaiya Lal Sethia Awardee Ranjit Hoskote; historian and academic Ruth Harris; economist and writer Sanjeev Sanyal; author and practising senior advocate Saurabh Kirpal; author and politician Shashi Tharoor; Pulitzer Prize for General Non-Fiction,Siddhartha Mukherjee; internationally bestselling author Simon Sebag-Montefiore; writer and rapper Sumit Samos; author Toby Walsh; Director of the V&A, the world’s leading museum of art, design and performance Tristam Hunt; renowned pop singer Usha Uthup; writer Vidya Krishnan; political scientist Yascha Mounk; and translator of the winning novel of JCB prize for Literature 2022, Baran Farooqi.

The Festival will also feature some of the award-winning historians like Tom Holland, Alex von Tunzelmann, David Olusoga, Edward Chancellor, and Katy Hessel, amongst others.

The previously announced list of speakers includes eminent journalist, writer and translator Arunava Sinha; Sahitya Akademi Award winner Aruna Chakravarti; award-winning writer Ana Filomena Amaral; leading bi-lingual editor, writer and translator Manisha Chaudhry; Padmabhushan awardee Mridul Kirti; and former diplomat Navdeep Suri.

The 2023 edition of the Jaipur Literature Festival will offer an immersive experience of literature, discourse, musical performances, art installations, merchandise, local cuisine and more to all art, literature and culture enthusiasts gathered to bask in the glory of the ‘greatest literary show on Earth’. Celebrating the uniting power of language, the Festival will provide an inclusive platform to all Indian and multiple foreign languages with sessions spread across 5 venues with over 250 speakers.

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