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India News London News UK News

EVENT: IIMK CONCLAVE IN LONDON

: Lord Meghnad Desai, Professor Debashis Chatterjee (Director, IIM Kozhikode), Swami Sarvasthananda (Minister-in-Charge, Ramakrishna Vedanta Centre) and Professor Pawan Budhwar (Associate Deputy Vice Chancellor International, Aston University, Birmingham) lighting the lamp at the start of the event

Professor Debashis Chatterjee, Director of IIM Kozhikode, Kerala, India, shares his experience of hosting the institute’s first-ever international conclave on ‘Globalizing Indian Thought’ in London. “We aim to be remembered as a pioneering business school that takes Indian management principles to the world,” writes Prof. Chatterjee

The next few decades belong to India and its economic and human capital prowess. At the Indian Institute of Management Kozhikode (IIMK), one of India’s premier business schools, we are making a significant international foray to explore why and how this global change is happening. As Director of the school, I’m proud to be coming to London for our first ever international conclave on ‘Globalizing Indian Thought’.

The aim of our conclave revolves around India’s soft power outreach, with discussions exploring ancient Indian wisdom and its relevance in today’s globalised world. We aim to highlight how India’s management principles, deeply rooted in philosophy, leadership, and governance, can offer valuable lessons for global business and policymaking.

One of the Labour party’s newest Members of Parliament, Kanishka Narayan MP, joined us, alongside Lord Meghnad Desai, Baroness Sandy Verma, Director of the Oxford Centre for Hindu Studies Shaunaka Rishi Das, outgoing Director of the National Institute of Economic and Social Research Jagjit Chadha and others.

Shaunaka Rishi Das, Director, Oxford Centre for Hindu Studies, giving the Opening Address

We hope that the conference is the start of a conversation in London. Our initiative is based on the hallmark of IIM Kozhikode’s intellectual contributions, which are grounded in a belief that Indian management philosophies – derived from the teachings of ancient texts such as the Bhagavad Gita and Arthashastra – have much to offer in terms of leadership, ethics, and innovation.

We are uniquely placed to initiate this conversation in London, home to the world’s oldest democracy.

IIMK has always set the benchmark for other management programmes in the country – in terms of gender diversity, diversity of management programmes. We hope to be able to showcase this prowess during the event, particularly as we have more than a hundred alumni living and working in London now in senior positions, despite being such a new business school.

Professor Debashis Chatterjee handing over a memento of appreciation to Shaunaka Rishi Das

As early as 2013, our flagship management program was 54 per cent female. That was a defining time for other business schools, with the trend in India for women to make up a mere eight to ten per cent, before our initiative. IIMK should not be remembered just for being a highly ranked business school, but instead as a pioneering one.

Too often, society mismeasures student aspirations: we think students are in higher education only to get a job. That will certainly be a ‘want’ in many cases, but not an aspiration. We don’t operate an employment exchange, but cater to the deeper aspects of student aspirations by providing them a portfolio of options for their future life once they leave our campus. Our Liberal Studies in Management is a way to get a chef or a national cricketer to come to join the campus. So we have stiff entry barriers but provide multiple exit options. 

Panel discussion on “The Future of Higher Education and its Role in Addressing Global Challenges” with Prof. Kamran Razmdoost (Dean, ESCP Business School London), Prof. Kirstie Simpson (Dean, Chester Business School, University of Chester) and Prof. Catherine Robinson (Dean, School of Business and law, University of Brighton)

The IIM journey, as we see it, is defined by intellectual capital multiplied by social capital, which gives a graduate his or her reputation capital. Our institution is one of the most credible voices to be talking such perspectives. In the Financial Times Masters in Management ranking in 2024, we leapt nine spots to be recognised as the 68th best in the world. As one of the fastest growing IIM’s in India we’re ranked third in the National Institutional Ranking Framework,. Despite being a comparatively new institution, we are able to bring new management and innovation thinking from India to the world.

As global challenges become more complex, time-tested Indian ideas that provide unique perspectives on balancing material progress with human and ecological well-being, as well as our approach to diversity and building tomorrow’s leaders, has been on display during our Globalizing India Thought conference in London.

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-Top News London News UK News

Tackling misogyny vital, says London mayor

Sadiq Khan has written to every primary school in London urging them to counter the online misogyny of influencers…reports Asian Lite News

Combating the “pernicious influence” of misogynists such as Andrew Tate in primary schools is a vital part of teaching children about equality and respect, the mayor of London has told teachers.

Sadiq Khan has written to every primary school in London urging them to counter the online misogyny of influencers such as Tate through new classes and workshops that are being set up across the capital as part of plans to tackle violence against women and girls.

“It’s never too early to start educating young Londoners about the need to treat one another fairly and kindly,” Khan said. “There has never been a more important time to counter the pernicious influence of those who preach misogyny online. We must ensure that young people are clear what healthy and respectful relationships are about before they start seeing content from individuals like Andrew Tate online.”

The mayor’s office has launched a £1m toolkit to help teachers counter dangerous messages from influencers after research revealed that one in three young males have a positive view of Tate, a self-proclaimed misogynist, and one in 10 children have watched pornography by the time they are nine.

The toolkit, developed by the healthy relationships charity Tender, trains teachers how to run workshops, drama and interactive classroom sessions to teach nine- to 11-year-olds how to recognise and call out inequality and sexism.

Children will be taught to identify positive aspects of friendships and also look at potential red flags such as controlling behaviour, the misuse of pressure and power in relationships. Pupils will be taught what their rights are and where they can seek support.

A spokesperson for the mayor’s office said the content would be “age-appropriate” for primary-age children and would not cover sex or pornography.

Sex and relationships education has been compulsory in English schools since 2019. By May this year the previous government was looking to roll it back and had put forward new draft guidance to limit what children could be taught.

Experts argue that if the Labour government is to achieve its aim of halving violence against women and girls in a decade, investing in high-quality education is vital.

Susie McDonald, the chief executive of Tender, acknowledged that discussing gender inequality and healthy relationships could be difficult, but said primary school was a critical time for children to learn about communication, empathy and respect.

“It’s imperative that children learn about healthy relationships and are supported to build positive attitudes and behaviours,” she said. “By challenging potentially problematic attitudes at their root, we can prevent a culture of abuse against women and girls.”

The full launch comes after a trial in which 230 teachers received training. According to research from Tender, 80% of teachers “reported increased confidence to support children and young people about healthy relationships” after using the tool.

Khan said City Hall was committed to a public health approach to combating violence against women and girls, pointing to £2m of funding for the mayor’s violence reduction unit, and the #HaveAWord campaign and allyship training in secondary schools.

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-Top News London News UK News

Diwali @ Square on Oct. 27

Mayor Sadiq Khan Announces Capital’s Annual Diwali on the Square Celebrations…reports Asian Lite News

The Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan, has announced that the capital’s annual Diwali on the Square celebrations will return to Trafalgar Square on Sunday, 27 October.

The free, family-friendly event will bring together Londoners and visitors in the heart of the city to enjoy a vibrant program of dance, music, activities, and food from 1-7 pm.

Organized in partnership with the volunteer-led Diwali in London committee, and supported by headline sponsor Remitly, the celebration will showcase the rich culture of London’s Hindu, Sikh, and Jain communities.

The festivities will begin with a burst of color and music as 200 traditionally dressed dancers perform at the center of Trafalgar Square. There will be a variety of market stalls and free activities, including dance workshops, yoga and meditation sessions, comedy from Soho Theatre, sari and turban tying, and a Glimpse of Goddesses stall where visitors can learn about Hindu goddesses. This year also introduces a Bhajan singing space with groups performing throughout the day.

Food lovers can indulge in a selection of South Asian cuisine, featuring both traditional and fusion vegan and vegetarian dishes from a range of caterers.

Mayor Sadiq Khan said:

“Diwali on the Square is a fantastic family celebration of light and color. It brings together Londoners and visitors of all backgrounds to mark the symbolic victory of light over darkness, good over evil, and knowledge over ignorance with a packed program of entertainment. As global tensions continue to affect us all, Diwali’s central messages of peace and hope are more pertinent than ever. By uniting to celebrate our diversity, we are showing why our capital is the greatest city in the world, as we continue to build a better London for everyone.”

Parul Jani, Chair of the Diwali in London Committee 2024, and member of the Brahmin Society North London, added:

“On our 23rd year of Diwali on Trafalgar Square, always supported by the Mayor of London, wishing everyone a very Happy Diwali right from the heart. Jai Siya Ram.”

Supporting Partners:

  • Dr. Nature Chakki Atta
  • Goldbank
  • Haldirams
  • Jaimin
  • Lidl
  • Parle
  • Star Tours
  • State Bank of India
  • Watchdog Locksmith

Friend: Soho Theatre Comedy
Media Partner: India Today / Aaj Tak
Hospitality Partner: Taj 51 Buckingham Gate

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Events London News Theatre

Echoes of the Past: A Review of ‘A Tupperware of Ashes’

Tupperware of Ashes starring Meera Syal OBE has world premiered at the Dorfman theatre at National Theatre London this autumn. A Review by columnist Riccha Grrover for Asian Lite International

The production is a vivid and heart-breaking family drama about life, immigration and the Indian spiritual cycle of death and rebirth. It is a compelling play that delves into the intricate tapestry of family and cultural identity; a poignant exploration of grief, memory, and narrative that centres around a South Asian family navigating this, intertwining humor and sorrow to create a deeply resonant experience.

The characters are vividly portrayed, each representing different facets of the immigrant experience. The matriarch, grappling with her role and expectations, serves as a powerful anchor for the story. Her interactions with her children reveal the generational tensions between preserving heritage and embracing modernity. The siblings’ differing responses to their shared loss highlight the complexities of familial bonds, making the audience reflect on their own relationships.

An ambitious Michelin-Star chef, Queenie is used to having the last word. But when her children notice gaps in her memory and her grip on reality loosening, they are faced with an impossible choice. As Raj, Gopal and Kamala battle to reconcile their life-long duty to their mother, the ramifications of their decision take on a heartbreaking permanence.

The cast includes Raj Bajaj, Natalie Dew, Marc Elliott, Stephen Fewell, Shobna Gulati, Avita Jay, Meera Syal and Zubin Varla.

The creative team, led by director Pooja Ghai (Artistic Director of Tamasha Theatre Company) includes set and costume designer Rosa Maggiora, lighting designer Matt Haskins, composer Nitin Sawhney, sound designer Elena Peña, illusions director and designer John Bulleid, movement director Anjali Mehra, fight and intimacy directors Rachel Bown-Williams and Ruth Cooper-Brown of Rc-Annie Ltd, casting director Naomi Downham, music associate David Shrubsole, dialect coach Hazel Holder and staff director Layla Madanat.

Syal’s sharp, insightful dialogue balances poignant moments with wit, keeping the audience engaged. The use of everyday objects, like Tupperware, as symbols of both practicality and emotional baggage adds depth to the narrative, suggesting how we contain our memories and emotions.

The lighting, set design, sound effects and costumes are on point. The staging is effective, with a minimalistic set that allows the characters’ emotions to take center stage. The lighting and sound design enhance the atmosphere, subtly reflecting the characters’ internal struggles.

Zubin Varla (Ameet)

Overall, “Tupperware of Ashes” is a thought-provoking piece that invites reflection on how we honor those we’ve lost while navigating our identities. Its blend of humor and heart makes it a touching exploration of family, making it a standout work in contemporary theatre. This play serves as a reminder of the importance of connection and the complex legacies we inherit. It is a hard-hitting and mind-blowing production all at once, a heart wrenching and an immersive experience.

The actors deliver an incredible performance in this intense and moving play where all actors especially Meera Syal OBE is truly in top form! It is inspiring to see a South Asian cultural narrative take centre stage, raising the banner for diversity in theatre in London. This is a must-watch production! Highly Recommended. This play is on until 16 November 2024.

Meera Syal (Queenie)
Meera Syal (Queenie)
Meera Syal (Queenie)
Meera Syal (Queenie)
Zubin Varla (Ameet) and Meera Syal (Queenie)
Raj Bajaj (Raj) and Meera Syal (Queenie)
Meera Syal (Queenie) and Avita Jay (Jamila)
Natalie Dew (Kamala) and Meera Syal
Stephen Fewell (Pavel) and Meera Syal (Queenie)
Meera Syal (Queenie) and Shobna Gulati (Indrani)
Zubin Varla (Ameet), Meera Syal (Queenie) and Shobna Gulati (Indrani)
Zubin Varla (Ameet), Meera Syal (Queenie) and Shobna Gulati (Indrani)
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Events Food Restaurant Reviews

Illuminate Your Diwali: Celebrate Festival of Lights at Taj 51 and St. James’ Court, London

Taj 51 Buckingham Gate Suites and Residences and St. James’ Court, A Taj Hotel, warmly invite everyone to join in the celebration of Diwali, India’s most cherished festival. This year, from Thursday, 31st October, to Friday, 1st November, guests are welcome to partake in a celebration that represents the victory of light, goodness, and knowledge over darkness. With vibrant decorations, festive meals, and the lighting of oil lamps (diyas), Diwali fosters community spirit and joy, marking a time of prosperity and new beginnings. A feature by columnist Riccha Grrover for Asian Lite International.

Taj 51 Buckingham Gate Suites and Residences and St. James’ Court, A Taj Hotel, invite you to immerse yourself in the spirit of Diwali with their exclusive offerings. Enjoy exquisite culinary experiences, luxurious accommodations, and thoughtfully curated hampers designed to make your celebration truly unforgettable. Relax in beautifully decorated spaces adorned with radiant lights and join them in honoring this luminous occasion.

DIWALI DINING Experience – THALIS from different regions

At TH@51, a specially curated selection of authentic Indian regional thalis will be available, allowing diners to savour the diverse flavours of India in a traditional setting. From aromatic curries to delectable desserts, each thali represents a different region’s culinary heritage. North Indian Thali features classics like Murgh Tikka Makhanwala and Dal Makhani, paired with butter naan and cumin-scented rice. The West Indian Thali includes the rich flavours of Murgh Tariwala and Undhiyu, complemented by Methi Thepla and Kabuli Pulao; For a Southern twist, the South Indian Thali offers dishes such as Erachi Milagu Roast and Kozhi Kulambu, served with Tamarind rice and Malabari bread; a Satvik Bhojan Thali is also available and includes the selection Aloo Dum Benarasi, Tawa Roti, Dahi Bhalla, and more.

Each thali is accompanied by papad, pickles, and a selection of Indian desserts like Gulab Jamun and Kesari Bhath. These speciality Thalis are available every day from 14th October until 12th November 2024.

INDIA UNVEILED BRUNCH

Guests can also enjoy the India Unveiled Weekend Brunchfrom TH@51, a brand-new culinary experience where Indian flavours meet brunch classics. The menu consists of Kheema Per Eedu, a Persian-inspired dish with lamb mince and eggs, and Goan Chorizo Pulao, a spicy rice dish topped with a fried egg. Guests can choose to pair these dishes with bottomless beverages, including Cobra Beer, Bellini, and signature cocktails like Masala 51, an Indian-inspired cocktail for two. For dessert, enjoy innovative options like Gulab Jamun Cheesecake and Masala Chai Crème Brulé. Indian Unveiled Weekend Brunch is available Saturday and Sunday from 12:30 until 4pm each weekend from 12th October until 24thNovember.

RADIANT DIWALI COCKTAILS

Celebrate Diwali with their exclusive festive cocktails at TH@51 and Hamptons Bar, inspired by vibrant Indian flavours. Sip on the indulgent Rasa Royale, the rich East India Reserve, the refreshing Konkan Breeze, or the bold Delhi Heart. Raise a glass and make your Diwali celebration truly memorable.

INDIAN JASMINE AFTERNOON TEA

Delight in the Indian Jasmine Afternoon Tea, inspired by rich Indian traditions and offering an innovative twist on the classic British afternoon tea. Available Thursday – Sunday at Kona Restaurant.

EXCLUSIVE HAMPERS AND GIFTING OFFERINGS

Explore the tradition of Diwali gifting with their exclusive hampers. Each one captures the essence of the festival, featuring handmade diyas and gourmet delicacies such as indulgent cashews and homemade sweets.

RADIANT DIWALI STAYS

This Diwali, guests can stay and celebrate with 15% off on accommodation with complimentary breakfast. Additionally, enjoy 10% off at select restaurants, where you can dine their Diwali-themed Indian Thali at TH@51. On November 1st there will be a fireworks display in the courtyard to celebrate Diwali. Witness the breathtaking sparkles and become part of the festive excitement!

DIWALI ON THE SQUARE

Taj 51 Buckingham Gate Suites and Residences will be the hospitality partner for Diwali on the Square again this year. Celebrate Diwali on 27th October at Trafalgar Square for this special festival of lights.

At Taj 51 Buckingham Gate Suites and Residences and St. James’ Court, A Taj Hotel, Radiant Diwali offerings will be available 12th October until 14th November inclusive.

Taj 51 Buckingham Gate, Suites and Residences

Five-star heritage hotel perfectly positioned close to Buckingham Palace and Mayfair and just a stroll from London’s greatest landmarks. Taj 51 Buckingham Gate, Suites and Residences is unlike any other 5-star luxury hotel in London. For regular and occasional visitors to the Capital of capitals, the hotel offers a wider choice of suites and residences than any other in London, providing guests with more space and flexibility to accommodate families, state delegations or executives travelling on business.

St. James’ Court London, A Taj Hotel

St. James’ Court, A Taj Hotel, London is a discreet Victorian masterpiece, typifying the concealed charm of one of Britain’s finest luxury hotels. Crisp and elegant, with the signature Taj warmth, St. James’ Court strives to make each visit more pleasurable and memorable. Located in central London SW1, the hotel is footsteps from Buckingham Palace and St. James’ Park, perfectly positioned to explore London, for business or pleasure. With four restaurants, including Michelin-starred Quilon, the award-winning afternoon tea restaurant Kona, The Hamptons Bar and TH@51 restaurant, Bar and Courtyard as well as conference rooms and banqueting suites, St. James’ Court Hotel is sure to be your favourite London hotel.

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-Top News Health UK News

No extra NHS funding without reform, says Starmer

PM Sir Keir Starmer said the new plan, expected to be published in the spring, would be “the biggest reimagining of the NHS” since it was formed, reports Asian Lite News

There will be no extra NHS funding without reform, Sir Keir Starmer says, as he promised to draw up a new 10-year plan for the health service. The pledge came after a damning report warned the NHS in England was in a “critical condition”.

The prime minister said the new plan, expected to be published in the spring, would be the “the biggest reimagining of the NHS” since it was formed. However, the Conservatives said the government needed to turn “rhetoric to action” after scrapping its plans to reform social care and build new hospitals.

Starmer set out three key areas for reform – the transition to a digital NHS, moving more care from hospitals to communities, and focusing efforts on prevention over sickness. The report was the result of a nine-week review by the independent peer and NHS surgeon Lord Darzi.

He was asked by Labour, shortly after the election, to identify the failings in the health service, but his remit did not stretch to coming up with solutions. His findings present a stark picture of a service which he says is in “serious trouble” with declining productivity, “ballooning” waits and “awful” emergency services that put patients at risk.

Responding to the report during a speech in London, Starmer said the problems would not be solved by just more money. “We can’t duck long-term change. This isn’t just going to be solved by more money, it’s solved by reform.”

Starmer said it would be “so different” from everything that has gone before as he talked about changing it into a “neighbourhood health service”. This would mean “more tests, scans and healthcare offered on high streets and towns centres” alongside bringing back the family doctor and offering digital consultations to those who want them.

“Hear me when I say this – no more money without reform.”

Speaking in the House of Commons, Health Secretary Wes Streeting pledged to be “tough on ill-health” and its causes as he evoked the spirit of New Labour.

He gave a nod to Tony Blair’s “tough on crime” mantra as he outlined a “national mission” to improve health opportunities across the country. Streeting said he wants to be “honest about the problems” facing the NHS and be “serious about fixing them”, as he updated MPs about the “raw, honest and breath-taking” Darzi report commissioned by the new Government.

The report from Lord Darzi, who served as health minister in the last Labour government, said the NHS was still struggling with the aftershocks of the pandemic and falling well short of its key targets for cancer, Accident & Emergency (A&E) and hospital treatment.

It said this was contributing to poor survival rates in cancer and heart disease, and falling rates of satisfaction with the service.

The report said the NHS had been left chronically weakened by the policy of austerity of the 2010s and, in particular, a lack of investment in buildings and technology.

The NHS has crumbling hospitals, fewer scanners than many other developed nations and is years behind the private sector in terms of digital innovation, it says.

This has contributed to falling levels of productivity in hospitals, with rises in staff outstripped by increasing numbers of patients needing care.

It has meant hospitals have been sucking up an ever-increasing amount of the budget, when more care should be shifted into the community.

Lord Darzi was also critical of the “disastrous” 2012 reforms introduced by the coalition government, which led to a shake-up of management structure in the NHS and acted as a distraction for the rest of the decade.

It said all this contributed to the NHS entering the pandemic in a depleted state, leading to the cancellation of more hospital treatments than any comparable country and the “ballooning” waiting list, which currently stands at 7.6 million.

Meanwhile, a surge in patients suffering several long-term illnesses, such as diabetes, high blood pressure and respiratory illness, is threatening to overwhelm the NHS, alongside soaring levels of mental health problems among young people.

Lord Darzi said: “Although I have worked in the NHS for more than 30 years, I have been shocked by what I have found during this investigation – not just in the health service, but in the state of the nation’s health.”

Shadow health secretary Victoria Atkins said the government had yet to come up with meaningful plans for reform.

“The Labour government will be judged on its actions. It has stopped new hospitals from being built, scrapped our social care reforms and taken money from pensioners to fund unsustainable pay rises with no gains in productivity.”

She also defended the Conservative government’s record, saying the NHS budget had been increased during the last Parliament. But Lib Dem leader Ed Davey said the Tories had driven health services “into the ground”. “Fixing the NHS is this country’s greatest challenge and the new government must make it their top priority.”

Rachel Power, of the Patients Association, said the findings were “deeply concerning” but “sadly not surprising”. “This diagnosis report provides a stark and necessary assessment of the challenges facing our NHS. We now must stop normalising the abnormal.”

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-Top News London News UK News

Council Bus Helps Rough Sleepers

Wandsworth Council’s the Driving for Change bus has made great progress making tangible change to the lives of some of its most vulnerable residents thanks to a new service targeted specifically at rough sleepers…reports Asian Lite News

Wandsworth Council’s Driving for Change bus has been making significant strides in supporting rough sleepers by providing essential services and fostering connections with those who may have previously been hesitant to engage. This innovative service, which offers a mobile dentist, testing and vaccinations, access to various advisors, and practical products such as toothpaste and soap, has been renewed for an additional six months following a successful trial period.

Since its launch, the Driving for Change bus has seen one of the highest uptakes in London, with an average of eight guests per day and nearly 100 dental visits recorded so far. The bus also provides services like mobile phone charging and haircuts, ensuring that guests can attend to immediate needs in a welcoming and supportive environment.

To celebrate the bus’s achievements, a recent event was held, attended by Mayor Sana Jafri and Councillor Aydin Dikerdem, Cabinet Member for Housing. Councillor Dikerdem highlighted the importance of the bus, stating: “Engaging with rough sleepers can be a challenging process for a number of reasons. The Driving for Change bus is offering essential services that enables us to create a relationship with people that may not have wanted to engage with us before. This is a vital piece of work that helps us to create a fairer and more compassionate borough for all.”

One notable success story from the Driving for Change initiative involves a service user named ‘Steve’ (not his real name). Steve approached the bus with a skin rash and dental issues but, being homeless without access to a GP, had been unable to get the treatment he needed. Having been street homeless for over nine months after an eviction and struggling with addiction, Steve was connected with a drug support worker on the bus and received a referral to SPEAR, an organization that helps individuals experiencing homelessness.

Steve also consulted with a dental nurse and was introduced to a barista training program, which provided him with an opportunity to explore new skills. Thanks to the support he received, Steve was able to move out of London to be closer to his family and focus on his recovery.

Mayor Jafri praised the collaborative approach of the initiative, saying: “This bus brings together a range of services and is a real testament to the strong partnerships we have. We are working closely with the NHS, SPEAR, and Mungos to ensure that people presenting as homeless can access all the services they need, as well as advice, in a safe, supportive environment.”

Keith Higham, Head of Impact at Change Please Foundation, which leads the Driving for Change initiative, reflected on the impact of the project: “The Driving for Change initiative at Change Please has been a beacon of hope for the homeless community in London over the past two years. Our commitment to driving positive change knows no bounds as we continue to uplift and empower individuals in the homeless community.”

As the Driving for Change bus continues to operate, it remains a critical lifeline for those in need, offering not just immediate assistance but also pathways to long-term support and recovery. The renewed contract ensures that this vital service will continue to make a positive impact on the lives of Wandsworth’s most vulnerable residents.

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-Top News London News UK News

London Tube Map Goes Circle Way

The Circle to Search design adopts a minimalist and subdued approach, with a softer, more muted colour palette. This new design prioritises a sleek, modern aesthetic, but at the expense of some of the functional clarity that defines the old map, writes Ricci Dean.

The comparison between the new Circle to Search design and the classic London Underground map is debatable. Both maps aim to simplify complex information, but they approach this challenge in distinctly different ways, particularly in terms of colour usage and overall clarity.

The traditional London Underground map is a triumph of practical design, especially in its use of colour. Each line is identified by bold, distinct colours that aren’t just visually appealing but essential for quick, effortless navigation. The high-contrast palette ensures that, even in crowded or stressful situations, users can immediately locate the line they need. This approach has stood the test of time because it’s both functional and intuitive, making one of the world’s most complex transport systems remarkably easy to navigate.

In contrast, the Circle to Search design adopts a minimalist and subdued approach, featuring a softer, more muted colour palette. This new design prioritises a sleek, modern aesthetic but at the expense of some of the functional clarity that defines the old map. The colours are less distinct, with an emphasis on creating a cohesive look rather than making each line instantly recognisable. While this might appeal to a contemporary audience accustomed to digital interfaces, it risks reducing the map’s effectiveness, particularly for those who rely on strong visual cues to navigate the Underground’s intricate network.

Change in design can bring fresh perspectives and modern solutions, but practicality should never be sacrificed in the process. The shift from bold, contrasting colours to a more uniform palette raises concerns from a usability standpoint. While the new design might seem elegant, it sacrifices the immediate legibility that made the original map so successful. The strong colour differentiation in the traditional map is not just a stylistic choice; it’s a critical element of its functionality. The new design, with its softer tones, may blur these distinctions, making it harder for users to quickly identify different lines and understand the network.

Moreover, the way these maps present information is telling. The old map offers a complete view of the system, allowing users to see the entire network. This holistic perspective is crucial for understanding not just individual routes but how they connect across the city. The Circle to Search design, with its focus on specific areas, can obscure this broader context. Combined with its muted colours, this approach may leave users with a less clear understanding of their position within the larger network.

While the Circle to Search design offers a fresh and modern take, it falls short of the clarity and functionality that the classic London Underground map provides. With over 25 years of experience in graphic design, I recognise the importance of change but also the necessity of practicality. The old map’s bold use of colour and clear, user-friendly design remain unmatched, serving as an enduring model of effective information design.

(Ricci Dean is a London-based media professional with extensive experience in graphics and animation.)

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-Top News India News UK News

INS Tabar Captain moved by grand diaspora welcome at London

Though the India-UK bilateral Konkan exercise could not take place during this visit, the ship has been holding a series of professional engagements, including a visit by Armed Forces Minister Luke Pollard to underline the strength of the defence partnership…reports Asian Lite News

The Captain of INS Tabar has expressed his sheer joy at the sight of the hundreds who lined the banks of the river Thames to greet the Indian naval warship with chants of ‘Bharat Mata Ki Jai’ as it glided under the iconic Tower Bridge for its London stay.

Captain M R Harish and his crew of the stealth frigate have been hosting members of the Indian community since it docked beside HMS Belfast on Wednesday, with its Naval Band set to entertain with some classic Bollywood melodies over the weekend.

Though the India-UK bilateral Konkan exercise could not take place during this visit, the ship has been holding a series of professional engagements, including a visit by Armed Forces Minister Luke Pollard to underline the strength of the defence partnership.

“It was a surreal experience as the London Tower Bridge opened for us and as the thousands of people gathered to greet us came into sight; in fact, it was so patriotic that for a moment I almost forgot my primary task of navigating and began waving back,” Captain Harish told PTI aboard INS Tabar.

During a reception co-hosted with the High Commission of India in London, High Commissioner Vikram Doraiswami and the Captain greeted officials from the Royal Navy, armed forces dignitaries, diplomats and their families.

“We are looking more at collaborating our maritime efforts. British ships have been operating in the Indian Ocean region. So, it naturally translates that we come over here, operate with them, exchange ideas, build up better understanding of each other’s capabilities, so that when we are at sea tackling common issues, we are better prepared to deal with them,” said Captain Harish.

Besides a friendly cricket match between the Indian and UK armed forces teams, the crew have been visiting a veteran’s hospital and hosting guided tours for the diaspora during the four-day stay.

The stealth frigate, which is on ongoing Operational Deployment to European nations, will continue its tour of the Nordics from the UK. It sets sail for Gothenburg in Sweden next, where it will celebrate Independence Day with a unique run as a nod to 77 years of independence – with 77 members running 7.7km, with some Swedish armed forces runners also joining in solidarity.

The visit of the warship to the UK, part of the Western Fleet of the Indian Navy, forms part of a regular exchange between Indian and British navies. INS Tabar is equipped with a versatile range of weapons and sensors and is among the earliest stealth frigates of the Indian Navy, which is based in Mumbai under the Western Naval Command.

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The Changing Media Landscape of London

London’s media landscape is undergoing significant transformation. With the rapid evolution of digital platforms, traditional media outlets are adapting to new consumption habits. The rise of social media, streaming services, and online news has reshaped how Londoners access information and entertainment … writes Sanjay Shabi

The Evening Standard, an iconic London newspaper, has made a strategic decision to cease publication on Mondays and Fridays as a precursor to eventually going weekly. This move is underpinned by both commercial and social factors, reflecting the changing landscape of media consumption and the economic pressures faced by print journalism.

Commercially, the shift in consumer behaviour towards digital platforms has had a profound impact on the newspaper industry. With the rise of smartphones and high-speed internet, readers increasingly prefer to access news online, leading to a decline in print circulation and, consequently, in advertising revenue which has traditionally been the lifeblood of newspapers. By reducing the print run, the Evening Standard aims to cut costs associated with printing and distribution, which are substantial for a free publication that relies on high circulation to attract advertisers.

The reduction in publication days also aligns with the changing patterns of commuting in London. The pandemic has accelerated the trend towards remote working, resulting in fewer daily commuters which in themselves are less predictable across the day and a reduced footfall in central London where the Evening Standard’s distributors are primarily located. With fewer potential readers on the streets on Mondays and Fridays, days which have become synonymous with working from home, the cost-effectiveness of distributing a print edition on these days diminishes.

Furthermore, the advertising market, which is crucial for the financial health of a free newspaper, has shifted. Advertisers are increasingly directing their budgets towards digital platforms that offer targeted advertising and measurable engagement. Anecdotal observations, subject to corroboration from more forensic data analysis, suggests this is further reflected by average issue pagination for the Evening Standard dropping about four-fold over the years from its peak. In contrast, by focusing on its digital offering, the Evening Standard can provide more attractive options for advertisers, leveraging data analytics to offer targeted and interactive ad campaigns that are not possible in print.

From a social perspective, the Evening Standard’s decision reflects a broader commitment to sustainability. The production and distribution of print newspapers have a significant environmental footprint, from the use of paper to the emissions associated with physical distribution. By reducing the number of print issues, the newspaper is decreasing its environmental impact, which resonates with the growing public and corporate emphasis on sustainability.

The move also acknowledges the changing rhythms of city life. With Londoners’ habits evolving, particularly in the wake of the pandemic, the Evening Standard is adapting to serve its readers when and where they are most likely to engage with the content. By concentrating its print presence on days with higher commuter traffic, the newspaper can maintain its relevance and connection with its audience. Many of whom may still prefer the physical attributes of reading printed material and the personal, one to one connection this affords especially when compared to other media channels.

The Evening Standard’s decision on this basis is a response to the dual pressures of economic sustainability and social change. It reflects a strategic pivot to align with the digital transformation of the media landscape, changing commuter patterns, and a commitment to environmental responsibility. This decision underscores the need for traditional print media to dynamically adapt to survive in an increasingly digital world with changing consumer behaviours.

(Mr Sanjay Shabi is Board Director, UK & Worldwide of Essence Mediacom)

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