Tag: FESTIVAL

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Festivals, Fireworks to Mark National Day

Festivals, Fireworks to Mark National Day

As well as incredible performances in the sky, the celebrations will also see equally spectacular performances on the ground, with a whole host of live concerts set to thrill audiences…reports Asian Lite Newsdesk

A spectacular line-up of events to celebrate National Day has been unveiled by the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi), with residents and visitors set to enjoy a whole host of family and community events from 1 to 3 December – and beyond.

A fantastic programme of thrilling events all over the emirate will invite everyone to share in the success of the nation, celebrate the last 50 years and look forward to the next five decades. The schedule of more than 20 immersive events will celebrate the UAE’s culture, diversity, and people through heritage-focused festivals, spectacular music and dance performances, thrilling sporting activities and breathtaking fireworks displays.

UAE FLAG

As a highlight of National Day weekend, on 2 December, Abu Dhabi’s night skies will be illuminated by the popular National Day Fireworks display. Dazzling spectacles of colour will light up the city skylines on Abu Dhabi’s Corniche, in Al Ain and in Al Dhafra. Fireworks will also paint the skies above Al Maryah Island on 2 and 3 December. Each exhilarating show will start at 9pm. There will also be an additional National Day Fireworks Show at Bawabat Al Sharq Mall on 2 December at 8pm.

As well as incredible performances in the sky, the celebrations will also see equally spectacular performances on the ground, with a whole host of live concerts set to thrill audiences – with the fun set to begin even before National Day weekend, with popular Emirati singer Eidha Al Menhali performing at Qasr Al Hosn on 26 November.

This will be followed by concerts across National Day weekend, led by Iraqi artist Majed Al Mohandis and Iraqi singer-songwriter Aseel Hameem, who will take to the stage at Emirates Palace on 1 December. Emirati singer Hamad Al Ameri will perform at Qasr Al Hosn on 2 December, with Emirati singer Ahlam closing the weekend at Louvre Abu Dhabi on 3 December.

Performances of another type will be on offer at the Abu Dhabi Sports Aviation Club on 2 December, with a one-of-a-kind Skydive Show and Formation Jump, featuring 16 skydivers carrying the UAE flag and creating a ‘50’ formation above the city. Additionally, in cooperation with Jazira Club, there will be a fly-over featuring approximately 50 airplanes and local pilots, Paramotor and Parasailing Shows with the UAE flag, and for spectators watching on the big screen, gift giveaways of skydiving, parasailing and aviation vouchers. 

Also on 2 December, Bawabat Al Sharq Mall will host a National Day Flash Mob along with their fireworks show, from 6pm to 8pm. The mall will also host the Sheikh Zayed Hologram interactive experience and screenings of Majlis the Story of the 50th, a film which uses archival footage to recount the UAE’s successful journey over the last 50 years. Both attractions will be open from 10am to 10pm until 4 December. There will also be a film screening at Qasr Al Hosn , where there will be a special ‘50 Year’ film screening with the first 50 guests on 2 December also treated to a private experience of the attraction.

The Golden Jubilee celebrations continue with Marsana at Hudayriyat Island’s special Year of the 50th activations from 1 – 3 December, as well as celebrations at Sheikha Fatima Park and Qasr Al Muwaiji. Cultural Foundation will see performances of Sailing the Silk Road by the renowned Caracalla Dance Theatre, the interactive exhibition Al Mujamma, plus art installations and screenings of films by Emirati filmmakers. Meanwhile, Manarat Al Saadiyat will host immersive art installations and workshops over the weekend.

Bait Mohammed bin Khalifa and Al Jahili Fort will also be participating in National Day celebrations with exhibitions of historical artefacts from life in Abu Dhabi over the last 50 years on show, and activations which embrace Emirati culture through art, music and gastronomy. In addition, over on Yas Island, the Island’s many entertainment, hospitality and dining attractions will be celebrating the UAE’s Golden Jubilee with 50 days of exclusive offers and competitions.

Festivals, Fireworks to Mark National Day

There will also be two fantastic ‘Seasons’ that coincide with the National Day celebrations. Firstly, Abu Dhabi Culinary Season will continue until 9 December, celebrating the UAE’s gastronomic landscape from the last 50 years, with outlets taking guests on a food journey through a special culinary activation: the Trademark Story campaign. Taking part in the campaign are 17 malls and over 100 restaurants offering trademark dishes for a special price of AED 50.

There will also be the start of the Abu Dhabi Winter Shopping Season – which starts on 2 December and run until 31 January 2022 – offering exclusive deals and discounts, with plenty of shop-and-win promotions, across popular brands at the emirate’s malls.

ALSO READ: Sharjah to mark UAE’S 50th year with series of festivities and family entertainment

Enhancing the National Day experience for everyone across the weekend, Abu Dhabi residents and visitors will also be mesmerised by the National Day Golden Jubilee light decorations, which are lining the city’s roads, leading to the attractions and events. The vibrant lights, adorning streetlamps and rails, show modern abstract shapes, the UAE flag intertwined with a ‘50’ and the UAE emblem.

In celebration of the nation’s momentous milestone, DCT Abu Dhabi has launched the Jubilee Cultural Pass, granting free or discounted access to a diverse range of cultural sites and museums across the emirate

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Abu Dhabi Events UAE News

Abu Dhabi Festival presents Uncle Naji

In its 18th edition under the slogan The Future Starts Now, Abu Dhabi Festival presents Uncle Naji, premiering in UAE and GCC cinemas on October 28…reports Asian Lite News

In its 18th edition under the slogan The Future Starts Now, Abu Dhabi Festival presents Uncle Naji, premiering in UAE and GCC cinemas on October 28. Co-produced by Abu Dhabi Festival, 3ks media production and producer and director Ahmad Zain Al Hashmi, the film is part of Abu Dhabi Festival’s strategy to support young filmmakers and promote the growth of cinema in the UAE.

Abu Dhabi Festival presents Uncle Naji

Written by Al Hashmi, Uncle Naji stars Ibrahim Al Meresi, social media influencer Mohammed Al-Kindi, Ahmed Seif, Omar Hassan, Ali Al Shehhi, Tariq Al Hosani, Ali Al Hajouri, Ayman Jbara, Nayef Al Shaer, Adel Homr, and a cast of young Emirati actors, along with the assistant director Mohammad Al Abadi.

H.E. HUDA EBRAHIM ALKHAMIS, FOUNDER, ABU DHABI MUSIC & ARTS FOUNDATION (ADMAF), ARTISTIC DIRECTOR, ABU DHABI: “We are proud to continue supporting talented film director Ahmed Zain Al Hashmi in his latest film project, Uncle Naji. This is a vital part of Abu Dhabi Festival’s ongoing efforts to advance Emirati screenwriters and filmmakers. In line with our nation’s vision to develop a thriving film industry, the Festival continues to serve as an active incubator for Emirati talent. Now in its 19th year, Abu Dhabi Festival’s support continues to grow for Emirati creatives who are laying the foundations of sustainable development in the UAE’s culture and creative industries. I would like to thank the filmmakers, actors and screenwriters for their wonderful work and all of our partners who joined us for the premiere to support Emirati cinema.”

The movie traces the life of Uncle Naji, who owns a restaurant and believes it to be haunted by jinn. A series of comedic events unfold in his pursuit to sell the undesired restaurant with the help and support of his Emirati friends. Uncle Naji becomes burdened with debts and forced to seek help from his grandfather, who brings inherited Yemeni artifacts to sell in the UAE. The grandfather helps Naji establish a food truck business, which after a short initial success, faces many hilarious challenges related to Naji’s friends.

Commenting on the movie, director Ahmad Zain AL Hashmi said: “Witnessing the success of Uncle Naji in UAE three years ago, we created this movie featuring an entirely new story while maintaining the lead character Uncle Naji, accompanied by former and new actors. Additionally, the movie is loaded with the usual unique mix of entertainment, comedy and many new songs.”

With great appreciation, AL Hashmi praised the Abu Dhabi Music & Art Foundation’s tireless support for young Emirati filmmakers, driven by its strong belief in the significance of filmmaking to the nation’s sustainable development and future generations. He also emphasised how, through Abu Dhabi Festival, talents are provided with opportunities to realise their creative potential in cinema.

ALSO READ: Abu Dhabi Gearing Up For Desert Challenge

“Uncle Naji” is sponsored by Ajman Media City Free Zone, and the Department of Tourism Development in Ajman.

The 18th edition of Abu Dhabi Festival is supported by its lead partner Mubadala Investment Company (Mubadala) and energy partner GS Energy.

The year-long programme for the 18th edition combines a unique hybrid programme of virtual and in-person performances, exhibitions and events by over 500 artists from more than 50 countries. The festival will provide audiences with 16 exciting world premieres, 12 festival productions, eight global co-productions and four exclusive commissions, with 1 global music tour.

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Top officials, lawmakers celebrate Diwali at Capitol Hill

Congresswoman Carolyn Maloney during Diwali celebration at Capitol Hill

The program included the traditional Diwali ‘Diya’ lighting and remarks from several elected and appointed leaders in federal government and lawmakers …reports Reena Bhardwaj

Top official of the White House and influential US lawmakers together with members of the Indian diaspora gathered for the Diwali celebration on Capitol Hill.

The annual reception was hosted by Indiaspora that also honoured some of the top Indian Americans in the Biden administration including Vice Admiral Surgeon General Vivek Murthy and Neera Tanden, Senior Advisor and Staff Secretary to President Joe Biden.

“Diwali is about light overcoming darkness, and there has been a lot of darkness in the last year and a half. To be able to celebrate Diwali, to talk about the meaning, to talk about the light in oneself and the light in others in these tough times, means a lot and I’m grateful to be here,” the Surgeon General told ANI.

“But one of the things that concerns me most about the last few years is another type of pandemic, the invisible pandemic that we are in the midst of. That’s a pandemic of polarisation where it feels increasingly people have turned against each other, where they have demonised one another, called each other evil and treated each other as so. That’s a particular kind of darkness,” he said.

The program included the traditional Diwali ‘Diya’ lighting and remarks from several elected and appointed leaders in federal government and lawmakers. Congressman Ami Bera, Pramila Jayapal, Congressman Ro Khanna and Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi also addressed the gathering and greeted the community.

“As an Indian American to see the Diwali celebrations getting bigger at the Hill, is not just about Indian Americans but also members of the Congress both Republicans and Democrats. Diwali is about coming together and enlightenment, that’s something to remember, ” Congressman Bera told ANI.

The event also witnessed an interfaith prayer service that was attended by members of the Congress. Congressman James Clyburn, Steve Chabot, Congresswoman Judy Chu and Congresswoman Carolyn Maloney praised the contribution of Indian Americans in the development of the US and stressed the significance of Diwali in a post-Covid-19 world.

“The Congressmen at the gathering are not just Indian Americans, we have African American, Chinese American mainstream American Congressman. It’s historic that such a diverse group of congressmen are supporting us, ” M.R. Rangaswami founder Indiaspora told ANI.

“We are honoured to celebrate Diwali on Capitol Hill and share our traditions with the leaders who have dedicated themselves to serving the public. The Indian diaspora has had a profound impact on American society, and their diverse contributions continue to strengthen our nation,” said Sanjeev Joshipura, Executive Director of Indiaspora.

American actress and singer Mary Millben was also present to celebrate Diwali at Capitol Hill. The singer performed the ‘Om Jai Jagdish Hare’ rendition for the diaspora and community members too crooned the hymn with the singer.

“To see folks come all over the country to celebrate Diwali is so beautiful and meaningful to me. I have a strong relationship with the people of India. It’s a very full-circle moment for me to be with people whom I love and a culture that I love, I am delighted to be here,” Mary told ANI. (ANI)

ALSO READ: Diwali on Trafalgar Square returns differently in 2021

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-Top News Dubai UAE News

Iconic Dubai Shopping Festival Begins on Dec 15

Dubai Shopping Festival further reinforces the city’s position as a multi-faceted must-visit destination…reports Asian Lite News

The iconic Dubai Shopping Festival is all set to return for its 27th edition from 15 December 2021 to 29 January 2022, offering residents and visitors a diverse line-up of innovative events, world-class entertainment, mega raffles and array of promotions.

Coinciding with EXPO 2020 and the UAE’s Golden Jubilee celebrations, the event further reinforces the city’s position as a multi-faceted must-visit destination and adds to the growing momentum of activity across its leisure, retail and entertainment sectors.

Organised by the Dubai Festivals and Retail Establishment (DFRE), the latest edition of Dubai’s flagship festival will highlight to the world the vibrancy that has returned to the city.

Featuring an array of innovative events, lively concerts, incredible drone shows, fireworks displays, global brand collaborations, life-changing mega raffles, promotions and offers across a range of homegrown and global brands, the Festival will give residents and visitors the opportunity to enjoy exceptional experiences throughout the 46-day extravaganza.

“Inspired by the visionary leadership of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, UAE Vice President and Prime Minister, and Ruler of Dubai, the city has always exceeded expectations when organising festivals and events,” said Ahmed Al Khaja, CEO of Dubai Festivals and Retail Establishment (DFRE).

“With Dubai open to all travellers and visitors from across the globe, we will roll out an extraordinary Dubai Shopping Festival during this landmark year in which the city is hosting EXPO 2020 and celebrating the nation’s Golden Jubilee.”

ALSO READ: Global Village Opens With Unique Experiences

“As the longest running and most successful shopping festival of its kind, we extend our deepest gratitude to our retailers and partners for their continued support to DSF, as we work even more closely with them this year to ensure that the festival will once again provide one of the best shopping experiences and create many memorable Dubai moments for residents belonging to over 200 nationalities, and global travellers,” he added.

DSF visitors can expect a packed programme of events, including theatrical performances, community markets and exclusive exhibitions, folklore and heritage shows, fun fairs, and many other activities for families and children, in addition to exciting events at the EXPO 2020 site and gastronomy delights awaiting foodies in every corner of the city.

The return of the popular alternative retail concept, Market OTB at Burj Park and the DSF Market at Al Seef will also add to the DSF excitement and further enrich the festival experience. With more events giving visitors a broad spectrum of choices, the upcoming edition of DSF will transform the city into a place abuzz with excitement, full of enthusiasm and adventure, making DSF the best time to shop and enjoy the best of everything in Dubai.

Dubai Shopping Festival is supported by key sponsors RAKBANK MasterCard and Jumbo Electronics and strategic partners which include: Al Futtaim Group (Dubai Festival City Mall & Festival Plaza), Al Zarooni Group (Mercato Shopping Mall), AW Rostamani Group, Dubai International Financial Centre, Emaar, Emirates Airline, Enoc, Etisalat, Majid Al Futtaim (Mall of the Emirates, City Centre Mirdif, City Centre Deira), Nakheel Malls (Ibn Battuta Mall, The Pointe, Nakheel Mall, Dragon Mart 2), Al Seef, Bluewaters, Boxpark, The Outlet Village, La Mer, Citywalk and The Beach.

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-Top News Dubai UAE News

Global Village Opens With Unique Experiences

Global Village has significantly improved guest flow adding 2,500 sq metres of new streets, plenty of seating, spectacular new street food areas and new landmarks and photo ops…reports Asian Lite Newsdesk

Global Village, the region’s leading multicultural family destination for culture, shopping, attractions, and entertainment, is now open for Season 26, offering new attractions, 15 brand new stage shows, exceptional food concepts and unique shopping experiences.

“We are excited to open the doors for our new season. Every season we take guest and partner feedback very seriously, using advanced data analytics to improve infrastructure and raise the bar for guest experience,” said Bader Anwahi, Chief Executive Officer, Global Village.

Global Village Opens With Unique Experiences

“Whether it is enhancements in guest flow or improvements to behind-the-scenes IoT and AI technology, every season we build on our robust foundations to set new standards and grow our reputation across the world.”

“Working closely with our partners from around the globe, we have taken major steps to enrich our retail, dining and entertainment experiences. In partnership with major international brands, we will be introducing the first Peter Rabbit Adventure Zone attraction in the world and have added a 4D moving theatre to the Ripley’s ‘Believe It Or Not!’ experience.”

“This season will be a significant one as we introduce strong new original content and concepts that will be key for future growth. Global Village is a home-grown brand and I am proud that we are able to play a part in making Dubai a global destination for entertainment and tourism in this very special year for our nation, Year of the 50th,” Anwahi added.

ALSO READ: Expo Records Nearly 1.5 Million Visits in 24 Days

Global Village has significantly improved guest flow adding 2,500 sq metres of new streets, plenty of seating, spectacular new street food areas and new landmarks and photo ops. It has introduced no less than 15 new stage shows created by the in-house entertainment team which has also put together the region’s first water stunt show, Harbour Force.

Global Village will be welcoming partners and exhibitors from no less than 80 different cultures this season. The 26 pavilions all have incredible new facades and will once again be alive with cultural performances, including the brand-new Iraq pavilion. Guests will be able to explore a treasure trove of unique products across more than 3,500 boutiques and stalls.

Global Village Opens With Unique Experiences

Back with a colourful new look, the hugely popular Carnival is home to more than 170 rides, games and attractions for the entire family. From exhilarating thrill rides to the much-loved kids’ zone, Carnaval brings “all the fun of the fair” to new levels. The massive new inflatable kids experience, Arabian Nights Bounce Palace is the perfect way to unleash the energy of younger guests.

Season 26 of Global Village offers the finest and rarest flavours and dishes from every continent. Guests are spoilt for choice with more than 200 restaurants, cafes and the most culturally diverse street food offering in the region. Alongside Global Village favourites, Fiesta and Happiness Streets, the newly named Firework Avenue is now home to a fountain feature, lots of seating and great street food options.

Inspired by Thailand’s world-famous ‘Umbrella Market’, the new Railway Market is a dessert lover’s paradise. The 14 train carriages will host more than 30 vendors of sweets, ice-cream, pastries, beverages and confectionary from across Asia and around the world.

With more space and the stunning new Dragon Lake backdrop, the Floating Market now overlooks an extravagant new fire fountain show featuring a 20-metre long fire-breathing dragon. Here guests can enjoy authentic recipes of Thailand, captivating tastes from Korea, Spicy Far East-Asian grills, Asian seafood, flavours from Myanmar, delicacies from the Philippines and Indonesian treats.

Global Village Opens With Unique Experiences

The Global Village entertainment team has created a unique line up of unforgettable shows, with over 200 shows every day featuring more than 400 artists from around the world.

Global Village has announced a new pricing as part of its digital transformation strategy. The ticket price will remain AED15 online and will be AED20 at the gate to encourage guests to purchase park tickets on its award-winning mobile application and user-friendly website. Buying tickets from the mobile app and website is quick, easy and environmentally friendly.

For Season 26, Global Village is welcoming guests daily from Saturday to Wednesday from 4:00PM until 12:00AM. On Thursday, Friday, and all public holidays, opening hours are 4:00PM until 1:00AM. Entry gates are closed half an hour before Global Village’s closing time. Mondays are exclusively reserved for ladies and families except on public holidays.

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-Top News Dubai UAE News

Dubai Culture plans remarkable version of theatre festival

Dubai Culture plans remarkable version of theatre festival

This edition of the Festival has an unprecedented participation from 14 National theatre groups across the UAE…reports Asian Lite News

Dubai Culture and Arts Authority (Dubai Culture) is preparing to launch an exceptional version of this year’s Dubai Festival for Youth Theatre (DFYT). The festival to be held from 19 – 25 November 2021 has witnessed an unprecedented participation of National theatre groups from across the UAE.

Dubai Culture plans remarkable version of theatre festival

Dubai Culture has formed a committee to review the theatrical performances by various theatre groups, in order to evaluate the work of the participants. The committee will ensure the appropriateness of the content, in terms of theatrical elements, in line with set criteria for a transparent and fair evaluation of the work of the participating teams.

The Festival’s organising committee has set 15 criteria for selecting the participating performances, which include: ensuring that the general form of the theatrical script is homogeneous and coherent; the performance is clear and understandable; it embodies the basic youth issues; it is original and creative in terms of content, direction, and music; and that all the other elements of theatrical work are in line with the UAE’s customs and traditions.

Dubai Culture plans remarkable version of theatre festival

This edition of the Festival has an unprecedented participation from 14 National theatre groups across the UAE, including: Yas Theatre – Abu Dhabi, Ras Al Khaimah National Theatre, Sharjah National Theatre, Sharjah Public Art & Modern Theater, Khorfakkan Theatre, Dibba Al Hisn Theatre, Kalba Theatre, Fujairah Theatre, Ajman Theatre, Dubai National Theatre, Dibba Al Fujairah Theatre, Shamal Society for Arts, Folk Heritage, and Theatre – Ras Al Khaimah, Dubai Al Ahli Theatre, and Al Ain Theatre.

It is notable that Dubai Culture has been keen to pave the way for the participation of theatrical talents of all nationalities residing in the country in order to provide a platform for creative ideas and experiences.

ALSO READ: The Gambia celebrates its National Day at Expo 2020

Fatma Al Jallaf, Acting Director of the Performing Arts Department at Dubai Culture, said: “Our preparations for DFYT 2021 are going well, and the reviewing committee is working to complete the evaluation of the performances this month. We look forward to ensuring the happiness of the Festival’s audience, who are passionate about theatre and are eager for the return of in-person performances. DFYT will be accompanied by a set of distinguished and diverse musical activities that will enrich the Festival with a classical music-inspired elegance. At the end of the Festival, we will announce the winners of more than 16 prizes awarded to the brightest young competitors and celebrate the leading and influential figures of the year in the performing arts sector.”

Al Jallaf stressed upon the importance of this Festival and its ability to achieve the Authority’s aspirations to create a sustainable creative environment for theatrical arts, and the advancement of Emirati theatre in a way that it empowers the creative economy, and strengthens Dubai’s position as a global centre for culture, an incubator for creativity, and a thriving hub for talent.

Dubai Culture plans remarkable version of theatre festival

In an effort to prepare for a distinguished version of the Festival in the light of the current circumstances due to the pandemic, the Authority held a virtual forum last August that brought together members of the boards of directors of National theatres across the country and a group of young national theatrical talents to exchange visions and ideas. This meeting sought to ensure that this edition of the Festival lives up to the emirate’s ambitions and its theatrical talents.

DFYT, organised annually by Dubai Culture, aims to shed light on the creativity of theatrical groups in the UAE, providing a platform to introduce the talents and capabilities of those working in this sector. The festival also provides a stage for the budding actors, directors, authors, interior designers, producers, make-up experts, sound engineers, as well as specialists in visual and lighting shows and fashion designers to showcase their skills to a wider audience.

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Dubai Events UAE News

Wafi City hosting an eight-week festival of fun

Wafi City

Dubai-based shopping, entertainment, hospitality, and leisure destination Wafi City is hosting an eight-week festival of fun and engaging interactive exhibits and games that will run from 1 September to 31 October 2021…reports Asian Lite News

Dubai-based shopping, entertainment, hospitality, and leisure destination Wafi City is hosting an eight-week festival of fun and engaging interactive exhibits and games that will run from 1 September to 31 October 2021.

Dubbed Wonderlab, the event features an exciting mix of science, art and technology exhibits that promises to make Wafi City the go-to destination for the entire family this autumn.

To add even more excitement to the activation, there will be competitions with winners receiving special gifts and a big prize courtesy of Wafi City and its retail partners.

ALSO READ: Expo 2020 reflects endeavour to a prosperous future: UAE envoy to US

Spread across six zones throughout the site, Wonderlab combines both educational and fun challenges where visitors can test their skills and knowledge of science and technology concepts, or simply enjoy the games. “The event is an expanded concept of WAFI’s Science Factory which was held in 2019 and overwhelmingly received by our loyal patrons and new customers, so we decided to bring it back; only this time, it’s bigger and better,” Stephanie-Alexandra Chartier, Head of Central Marketing at Wafi Property.

Want to have invisibilty powers_Try this cool exhibit at Wafi City’s Wonderlab

Chartier says Wafi City’s Wonderlab is an event aimed at giving its visitors an entertaining and educational experience through the activations that were developed in cooperation with scientists and technology experts as well as gaming enthusiasts. “We are adding to our visitors’ shopping experience with a variety of innovative and exciting activities that will cater to people of all ages and backgrounds,” she added.

Wonderlab will take visitors through various concepts in science, maths, physics, astronomy, biology, music, the environment, arts, culture and more for a thrilling adventure filled with discovery and excitement.

Wafi City

Visitors get to experience gravity with the Moon Jump or do some physical exercise like riding a bike while generating energy. They can learn how sound is created and play with musical pipes or discover how their favourite cartoons are made with the Animation activation.  These are just some of the exhibits guests will enjoy when they visit Wafi City’s Wonderlab.

Wonderlab will also be part of Wafi City’s 30th anniversary offering and will mark the occasion with a special celebration.

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Bollywood Lite Blogs UK News

UK Asian Film Festival 2021: ‘Not Today’ Wins Honour

“Not Today” is slated to release in India later this year…reports Asian Lite News.

Getting honoured is truly a treasure for artists. Indie filmmaker Aditya Kripalani’s film “Not Today” has been honoured at the recent UK Asian Film Festival. The film talking about suicide prevention has been awarded the Ray Of Hope Igniting Flame Commendation 2021.

The film starring Harsh Chhaya and Rucha Inamdar has also been officially selected for the Indian Film Festival of Stuttgart 2021.



“It feels great to win the festival directors award because the UK along with India, has very high rates of suicide. Also akin to India, in the UK also 60 per cent of suicides are by men. So, I’m glad the festival recognised the film and wrote to us saying they felt very strongly for it,” Kripalani said.

“The UK Asian Film Festival is special because your film stands on a platform with films from Sri Lanka, India, Pakistan and the UK itself along with many more countries. They also hold screenings across the UK and not just in London. So, we get a cross sections of audiences for the film,” the filmmaker added.

“Not Today talks about somehow overcoming that strong urge to kill oneself, in that one moment. It talks about loneliness and about how sometimes all one needs is someone to listen at the right time,” he added.

“Not Today” is slated to release in India later this year.

Aditya Loves Film Making

Filmmaker Aditya Kripalani says that he loves making films that explore stories around people engaging with their and other genders.

“I normally like to make films about human beings engaging with their own and other genders, and about humans engaging with society. Also (I like making) films about ‘what ifs’,” he told.

Kripalani is known for his indie film and “Tikli And Laxmi Bomb”, and his most recent film “The Goddess And The Hero” (“Devi Aur Hero”) was premiered at The Projector — Singapore. The filmmaker says that film festivals are a great way to understand how a film would be accepted globally.

“Films playing at festivals tell you how your idea and emotions are translating across borders to someone from a very different circumstance and background,” he says.

Aditya says that he wants to keep making films regularly.

“Future plans are to keep making one film a year as soon as I’m able to, with Covid around. I want to make films that in some way engage with society around us. A human being’s attempt at finding dignity and belonging in the world. Things we all deal with universally forever,” he says.

Meanwhile, he adds that he doesn’t want his career as a filmmaker to become a burden for him.

“I’m more aware of commercial viability now, but not too much. The other thing I hope to not have to do, is to lose my freedom of living life because I want to make movies. I don’t want filmmaking to ever become a chain. I still want to be able to pursue anything else I feel like along with having a career in film,” he says.

ALSO READ-‘Global Taj Int’l Film Festival’ Starts from Nov 6

READ MORE-UK Asian Film Festival to begin with ‘Raahgir’

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Asia News COVID-19 Sri Lanka

Temple officials held in Lanka for holding festival

A huge crowd attended the festival at the Sri Kamakshi Amman Kovil temple in Tamil-dominated Jaffna without maintaining social distance or wearing face masks…reports Asian Lite News

Sri Lankan officials have arrested the top officials of a Hindu temple for allegedly holding a festival despite a ban on large gatherings amid a spike in Covid-19 infections, according to the Colombo Gazette newspaper.

A huge crowd attended the festival at the Sri Kamakshi Amman Kovil temple in Tamil-dominated Jaffna without maintaining social distance or wearing face masks, the newspaper reported.

The Chairman and Secretary of the Board of Trustees of the temple have been arrested for holding the event despite a ban. Such large events have been banned by the Government until May 31, it was reported.

Last week, the government announced that tuition classes, parties and public gatherings have been banned until May 31st after Sri Lanka was placed on Alert Level 3 following the Sinhala and Tamil New Year.

According to new health guidelines, casinos, night clubs and beach parties have also been temporarily banned. Government and private offices have been told to operate with minimum staff while others work from home.

Also read:Highly infectious Covid-19 strain detected in Sri Lanka

Last week, Sri Lanka marked the second anniversary of the Easter Sunday bombings with religious ceremonies, as Catholics called for investigations into the attacks to be expedited.

The bombings carried out by extremist groups targeted three churches during Easter Sunday services in 2019. Three luxury hotels were also hit in simultaneous attacks on April 21, DPA reported.

Catholic churches conducted prayer services after two minutes of silence in remembrance of the 271 people killed in the multiple explosions. Other religious groups held similar events.

A multi-religious remembrance service attended by Buddhist, Hindu and Muslim clergy and diplomats was held at the St Anthony’s Catholic shrine in the capital Colombo – one of the targets of the suicide bombings.

Heavy security was placed outside churches in Colombo and surrounding areas where the main services were conducted.

Silent protests were held outside churches in some locations demanding speedy investigations into the attacks.

Also read:Ex-Sri Lanka minister, brother to be detained for 90 days

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Lite Blogs UAE News

Korea-UAE Festival fascinates Millions

The most popular Korean K-POP groups including MAMAMOO, B.I.G, ASTRO, NCT DREAM, THE BOYZ, and aespa and Emirati Opera singer Fatima Al Hashmi performed at the virtual event…reports Asian Lite News.

Festivals in 2021 really calling back the past power packed celebrations before Covid era. The Korea-UAE Festival, which was organised by the Korean Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism, in partnership with the Korean Creative Content Agency (KCCA) and the Korea Foundation for International Culture Exchange (KOFICE), attracted 2.73 million viewers.

The festival celebrated the cultural dialogue between the UAE and South Korea in 2020 and 2021 through various activities, most notably the “Korean Content Festival,” which presented Korean content to the Middle East, as well as K-Pop events that featured six K-Pop stars and Emirati opera singer Fatima Al Hashemi.

Noura bint Mohammed Al Kaabi, Minister of Culture and Youth, stated that the festival highlighted the profound friendship between the two countries, which dates back to over 40 years.

“We are looking forward to a new era of dialogue in the upcoming period, which we aim to reinforce through several initiatives taking place this year that will celebrate our mutual values, such as tolerance, coexistence and openness,” she said.

Hwang Hee, Minister of Culture, Sports and Tourism of South Korea, said, “There is an Arab proverb stating that those spending time with people for 40 days will become one of them, and now that the friendship between our countries has lasted for over 40 years, we can say that we have become close and loyal friends.”

“We are delighted to gather the peoples of our countries today in a K-Pop performance, in celebration of the cultural exchange year. Music is a common human language that exceeds linguistic and ethnic differences,” he added.

During the Korean Content Festival, virtual seminars were held via video conferencing featuring 24 speakers and suppliers from the Middle East, as well as 28 Korean companies. Some 43 business consultations also took place among the participants.

The most popular Korean K-POP groups including MAMAMOO, B.I.G, ASTRO, NCT DREAM, THE BOYZ, and aespa and Emirati Opera singer Fatima Al Hashmi performed at the virtual event. In particular, a collaboration between the Korean K-POP group and the local singer made the KOREA-UAE K-POP FESTIVAL more spectacular.

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