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

In this solo show Fatima Ronquillo unveiled new works. It was the return of the immensely talented and coveted artist, Fatima Ronquillo, with her latest masterpiece: “Amore: An Ode to Love”. An exclusive feature by columnist Riccha Grrover for Asian Lite International.

In this eagerly awaited showcase, Ronquillo unveiled a stunning collection of five brand-new works, each a testament to her mastery of classical inspiration, enchanting pictorial imagery, and the fusion of rich cultural traditions.

Her extraordinary paintings executed with her sublime technique, transport us to a realm of serenity and charm, where mysteries unfold, personages come to life, and pastoral landscapes provide a backdrop for the drama and playfulness that lie beneath the surface. 

At the heart of this collection is the theme of love—its pleasures and its pain. Drawing inspiration from timeless poetry by the likes of Shakespeare, Spenser, Hafez, and Oscar Wilde, Ronquillo delves deep into the complex tapestry of human emotion.

This new series of masterpieces takes us on a journey through the intricacies of love, offering a visual feast that resonates with the echoes of art history, nostalgia, and characters drawn from literature, theater, and opera.

Shakespeare’s Sonnet 40: “Take all my loves, my love, yea take them all” serves as a muse, weaving a narrative of love’s all-encompassing nature, where every facet of the heart is laid bare. Ronquillo’s brushwork captures the depth and complexity of love, from its sweetest moments to its most profound sorrows.

Edmund Spenser’s “Amoretti: My love is like to ice, and I to fire” ignites the canvas with passion and intensity. Through Ronquillo’s expert technique, we witness the juxtaposition of two opposing forces—the coldness of ice and the fervent blaze of love—as they dance together in a mesmerizing visual ballet.

“The Nightingale and the Rose” by Hafez and Oscar Wilde resonates with Ronquillo’s exploration of love’s sacrifices and the pursuit of its elusive beauty. Her paintings pay homage to these poetic narratives, infusing them with her unique magical realism and a touch of colonial Latin American traditions.

In Ronquillo’s hands, the canvas becomes a portal to a world where love transcends time and culture, where emotions are both universal and deeply personal. Her works beckon us to contemplate the eternal themes of love, longing, and desire, inviting us to connect with the characters and stories she brings to life.

“Amore: An Ode to Love” is a testament to the artist’s unerring commitment to the art of meaning and sentiments, her ability to conjure beauty from the depths of her soul, and her unique gift for melding classical European influences with the most contemporary feelings. 

This exhibition is an unforgettable journey through the complexities of the heart, a symphony of color and emotion that leaves the audience profoundly moved and inspired.

About Fatima Ronquillo:

Born in San Fernando, Philippines in 1976, Fatima Ronquillo emigrated as a child to the United States in 1987 where her family settled in San Antonio, Texas. She currently resides and maintains a studio in Santa Fe, New Mexico. Her work is included in prestigious private collections throughout North America and Europe.

Fatima Ronquillo is a self-taught painter whose classically inspired imagery evokes a world of serenity and charm. Her paintings of mysterious personages, often set against pastoral and idyllic landscapes, are accented with an underlying sense of drama and playfulness. These intimate works are painted in the style of European old masters coupled with a magical realism rooted in folk and colonial Latin American traditions.

In her paintings, we find numerous references and a strong connection with European paintings from the 16th and 17th centuries. The poses of the depicted characters, their gazes, the natural ele- ments and landscapes, as well as the colors: all these elements transport us back centuries. The poses of the depicted characters, their gazes, the natural elements and landscapes, as well as the colors: all these elements transport us back centuries. 

Infused with romanticism, Ronquillo’s paintings encapsulate a mysterious story told through symbols and metaphors. The beauty, as well as the fragility of both man and nature, are painted with great mastery and lyrical grace, just as much as love, which in Ronquillo’s portrayal is not a perfect love: it is romantic, yet also nostalgic, and can be a source of sadness and suffering. His is a true, real love, composed of both light and shadow. 

Through the lens of magical realism, the artist illuminates an “other reality” that is a synthesis between the everyday of the real world and the magical dimension of dreams and visionary minds. Hers is an authentic voice that echoes from an inner world where art history meets with nostalgia and imagined characters from literature, theater, and opera.

About Dorothy Circus Gallery:

Dorothy Circus Gallery is a space dedicated to the figurative avant-gardes in contemporary art. The gallery brings together international established and up and coming artists from the worlds of Painting, Sculpture, Photography and Street Art, selected for their compelling visual languages and intriguing correlation to Pop iconography, New Surrealism and Magic Realism.

ALSO READ: India’s Legendary Rock Festival Returns

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Lite Blogs London News Woman

UP Girls Celebrate Teej in London

The UP Girls have proven that while you can take a girl out of India, you certainly can’t take India out of the girl, and created a wonderful communal experience whilst doing so…reports Asian Lite News

Festivities filled the Blue Room, an events venue in Harrow, on 17th September 2023. The theme of the celebration was the Hindu festival Teej, specifically Hartalika Teej. Hartalika Teej commemorates the marriage of the goddess Parvati and the god Shiva, and is an especially important festival for married women. On Teej, women gather to celebrate, and pray for the well-being of their family. They also traditionally observe a fast on this day. However, as the celebration was a day before the actual advent of Hartalika Teej, all present – including men, women, and children – were free to partake in the delicious food provided.

Aside from the food, the event itself was incredibly lively. UP (Uttar Pradesh) Girls, the all-female hosts of this event, did a commendable job in creating an enjoyable afternoon. From witty hosting in a beautifully decorated venue, to various singing and dance performances by adults and children alike, and a multi-generational fashion show, there was not a single dull moment during the four-hour long function. The UP Girls have proven that while you can take a girl out of India, you certainly can’t take India out of the girl, and created a wonderful communal experience whilst doing so.

It was a great platform for all the talented ladies to express themselves. The event had stalls as well as a photo booth and was a complete package of entertainment with fashion show, dancing, singing, and several kids performances. Each participant was given a certificate and prize.

UP Girls in the UK was first started by Richa Sharma 7 years ago but it is for the first time they have organized Teej on a large scale. The entire programme was conceptualized and executed under the guidance of Sunita Chaubey. Others who contributed to the execution of the entire event were Shalini Jaiswal , Abha Sharma , Vijay Lakshmi Shukla , Parul Tandon ,Bakul Bansal , Shipra Singh , Hemlata Pandey , Savita Singh , Kavita Gulati , Priya Sinha, Mamta Sunil Chavan, Priyanka Verma, Anuradha Baranwal , Deepti Agarwal, Juhi Srivastava, Ekta Mishra, Bandana Choubey, Dr Vinita Srivastava, Vijaylakshmi Dubey , Rashmi Chaubey , Parul Pandey

The event was supported by IIW Inspiring Indian Women.

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-Top News London News UK News

‘Let’s Do London’ Nets £162 Million

The Mayor said “I’m delighted that our Let’s Do London campaign has been an enormous success and it’s amazing to see tourists flocking back to the city to enjoy all there is to offer…reports Asian Lite News

London’s economy has roared back from the impact of the pandemic, with more than 300,000 additional tourists visiting the city and spending £162m so far in 20231.  

The Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan has also today revealed that over the last three years, his ‘Let’s Do London’ campaign – which encouraged tourists to visit the capital following the pandemic – has attracted over 850,000 additional visitors, who in turn contributed £360m to London’s economy.

Around 16 million people visit London every year2.

This summer has been hugely successful for London, with a massive return of visitors enjoying the capital’s offering of attractions, gigs, events and fashion with the recent reopening of the National Portrait Gallery, the complete rehang of Tate Britain, and the opening of the new Young V&A children’s museum in East London which has doubled in attendance since reopening and renaming.

In one week in July a plethora of musical talent – from the British Summer Time Festival in Hyde Park and Greenwich Summer Sounds to performances by Lana Del Rey, the Weeknd, and Blur– performed in London, bringing in more than £320million to the capital in ticket sales and secondary spend.3

This included sold-out arena gigs and smaller grassroots venues all across the capital.

Last month, the fashion industry – which employs nearly 900,000 people in the UK and contributes around £21 billion to the UK economy –was boosted by London Fashion Week enjoying its largest schedule since the pandemic and the star-studded Vogue World: London event raising £2m for London-based arts organisations.

This month the capital is expected to host even more visitors as the BFI London Film Festival, the 20th anniversary of Frieze London, the 30th anniversary of the EFG London Jazz Festival, the London Literature Festival and the first major UK exhibition mapping the design evolution of the skateboard all take place.  

The Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan hailed this success as he joined leaders from across London and the UK’s visitor attractions at the 20th anniversary of the UK Visitor Attractions Conference.

Earlier this year, the Mayor joined more than 300 brands in signing a letter to the chancellor saying the UK is “losing out” due to the decision to remove VAT-free tourist shopping, with the impact already hitting some London brands.

The Mayor said “I’m delighted that our Let’s Do London campaign has been an enormous success and it’s amazing to see tourists flocking back to the city to enjoy all there is to offer.

“We’ve had a brilliant summer and welcomed millions of tourists to our great city to enjoy a wide array of performances, events, and exhibitions but we could be welcoming so many more shoppers if the Government would support us.

“Once again, I am urging ministers to reverse their decision to scrap VAT free shopping for international visitors. By doing so they could remove a major competitive disadvantage for the London and the UK and help make us even more appealing to tourists.”

Dee Corsi, Chief Executive, New West End Company said:  “Businesses have made clear that the absence of tax-free shopping is a barrier to growth which is creating an unnecessary drag on the U.K. economy. Nine in ten businesses in the West End say that the ‘tourist tax’ has been more damaging to them than the cost-of-living crisis or inflation.

“As a result, nearly half are reviewing staffing requirements – a potential blow to British jobs in an already challenging macro-economic climate. While it’s reassuring that our capital city hasn’t lost its appeal when it comes to attracting overseas visitors, these admissions from businesses should set alarm bells ringing in Westminster.

“We welcome the support of the Mayor today, as he underlines the need to reinstate tax-free shopping without delay in order to safeguard London’s future growth.”

Laura Citron, CEO of London & Partners, said: “We’re delighted by the continued success of Let’s Do London in driving additional visitors to London and helping support and spotlight our amazing tourism sector.

“After a buzzing summer season, London has once again been ranked as the best city in the world4, thanks to its leading cultural scene and fantastic attractions and experiences and there’s more to come as we enter autumn with unmissable exhibitions, immersive art and new openings including London’s newest cultural quarter, East Bank.” 

Bernard Donoghue, CEO of ALVA and the Mayor’s cultural ambassador said: “These figures show just how successful and vital the Let’s Do London domestic and international tourism campaign has been. It’s been a brilliant collaboration between London’s tourism sector and London’s Mayor to kickstart the recovery of our visitor economy in order to repair balance sheets, protect and grow jobs and save businesses.”

ALSO READ-London mayor says death threats left him with PTSD

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India News London News UK News

Hindi Diwas celebrations at the Nehru Centre

Dignitaries at Hindi Yuva Sangam

A program titled Hindi Yuva Sangam was hosted at the Nehru Centre marking Hindi Diwas recently. Youth between 16 to 22 years have participated in this event organised by Sangam, supported by Katha UK and International Kavi Sangam.

Virendra Sharma MP, Coordination Minister Deepak Choudhary, Attache- Hindi Dr Nandita Sahu at the High Commission of India, India’s renowned Ram Katha reciter Shri Rajan Maharaj, media personality Ravi Sharma were among the dignitaries present. Writer Ashish Mishra has conducted the interesting event.

Presentation at Hindi Yuva Sangam

Twelve Participants Abhiraj Singh, Ishika Pandey, Devansh Jha, Jahnavi Sharma, Krishnam Aachari, Mehak Chandel, Rahul Sethiya, Roma Kakran, Saira Khan, Sapna Thakur, Sattviki Pandey and Sneha Chaubey have recited their Hindi poems and articles on chosen topics.

General Secretary of Katha UK and senior literateur Tejendra Sharma MBE joined by a few of the dignitaries made independent evaluations of the presentations. Krishnam Aachari got first place, followed by Sneha Chaubey in second and Rahul Sethiya in third place.

All participants were given citations, trophies, and awards. Gyan Sharma of Sangam spoke of the six teams named after rivers of India – Brahmaputra, Ganga, Godavari, Kaveri, Narmada, and Yamuna. 

The program was also supported by members of IDUK, Bihari Connect, Gurukul UK, UPCAUK, FOMPUK, Phoenix, Jalaram Caterer, City Sweet, and MATV, among others.

Audience at Hindi Yuva Sangam
Hindi Yuva Sangam
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Food Goa London News

Goan drink ‘Feni’ to hit UK shores soon; London-based Goan to enter beverage trade

It’s been a culmination of months of getting the product into the UK and soon will be available in Europe, reports Rahul Laud

Gianna’s Cashew Apple Feni is due to be launched in the UK by the end of October’23 and should be available across via retail distribution channels or online stores in the United Kingdom. It’s been a culmination of months of getting the product into the UK and soon will be available in Europe. This famous tipple from Goa, India will now be available in its classic version of 750 ml with an alcoholic strength ABV – 42.8% informed London based Karl Da Costa – BSSG UK Ltd responsible for getting the Indian product in the UK market.

Feni comes from the Sanskrit word ‘Fen’ which means froth, a very distinctive character of Gianna’s Cashew Apple Feni.  Brian Marchon from Pickval Traders (Goa, India), the manufacturer, has been modifying the final product to meet international standards while maintaining that local distilled flavor.

Brian Marchon states “We have never been so proud and honored to finally showcase India’s only GI spirit (Feni) into the  European market. Currently, we are in negotiations to supply in Canada and Australia, but I think we will be in New Zealand sooner.”

Karl Da Costa, BSSG UK Ltd. echoed “We are truly excited as in the next coming days we will finally have Gianna’s Feni in the UK. I take this opportunity to thank Brian and his team at Pickval, for entrusting us with Gianna’s Feni and working with us  along the way.”

Karl highlighted that although there are a few challenges – the cost of living crisis, non-duty products, and distribution; they are optimistic and excited, as it’s the only Feni product officially available currently with a few more products in the pipeline like Feni infused liqueurs. 

Established in 1974 by Cajetan Marchon, Pickval Traders Started business by being appointed the Sole distributor in Goa for leading brands like Aristocrat Premium Whisky, and Bonnie’s Scotch Whisky, By the year 2000  Pickval Traders had grown its distribution network across Goa & was appointed the sole distributors for  Sula wines which is today considered the number 1 premium wine in India.

In 2008, Pickval Traders expanded its distribution Portfolio and was appointed the sole distributor in Goa for  Brown Forman Worldwide LLC, including Jack Daniel family collections, Gentleman Jack, Jack Daniel Single  Barrel Select, Woodford Reserve recently launched Jack Daniel Fire, and Jack Daniel Honey. Also leading Tequila from Mexico i.e. El Charro Tequila Silver; Gold which is leading in the Goa market is appointed distributor in another state too. Pickval Traders also handles the duty-free business of Remy Cointreau,  VSOP’s Remy Brands in Goa. Pickval Traders are sole distributors for Brindco Sales Pvt Ltd offers  International wines from Chile, Spain, Argentina, New – Zealand, South Africa, Australia, and Italy. Recently taken up distribution for Smoke Classic Vodka Aniseed Vodka of N V Distilleries Pvt Ltd Patiala Punjab; imported Beer from Bhutan known as “Konigs”, Montblanc Label Lager Beer 325 ml amber pint which was known as “Kings” black label earlier.

Cajetan Marchon was joined by his son Brian Marchon in 2011 who has since taken over the business;  and expanded it further by diversifying into distribution of the world’s most famous sparkling Carbonated water  “Perrier” the leading premium franchise right of Haagen Daz ice cream for Goa imported from France.

In 2017 Pickval Traders started Manufacturing, and exporting their family labels i.e. “Gianna’s” and currently offer Gianna’s de premium Port wine & Gianna’s classic Cashew Feni. These are currently being distributed & retailed across Goa state & also available in most of the leading five-star hotels, fine dining, clubs, etc. 

Pickval Traders has already launched in Dubai which is now available at Barracuda in Dubai (UAE)  and recently made available at retail stores at African, Eastern in Ras Al Khaimah, Fujairah (UAE).

ALSO READ: Goan Association North West Hosts World Goa Day Celebration in Manchester

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-Top News EU News London News

Thousands march in London to demand UK rejoin EU

The UK voted to leave the European Union in a referendum in June 2016, called by then-prime minister David Cameron…reports Asian Lite News

Protesters against the UK’s exit from the European Union have labelled the move “a huge mistake” as they campaigned to re-join the bloc. A large crowd of pro-EU protestors gathered outside the Hilton hotel on Park Lane in west London for the National Rejoin March (NRM) on Saturday.

Hundreds of people dressed in blue clothing and carrying EU flags filled the pavement ahead of the march through the city’s streets, which was due to culminate with a rally at Parliament Square.

Clusters of Metropolitan Police officers were at the scene as protesters handed out flyers and passing cars beeped their horns in support.

The UK voted to leave the European Union in a referendum in June 2016, called by then-prime minister David Cameron. Peter Corr, leader and co-founder of NRM, said he decided to organise the march as it “felt like everyone had given up” on the cause.

Corr, a lorry driver from Derby, told the PA news agency: “Brexit was a huge mistake, we’re all – especially working class and poorer people – paying for it and we need to do something about it.”

He said 60% of the country, and 80% of people aged under 25, consistently say they would re-join the EU in polls, adding: “I hate racism and xenophobia and that’s just what a big part of that ‘Vote Leave’ campaign really felt like to me.”

Ceira Sergeant, 21, from Walton in Liverpool, one of speakers at the rally, said: “I was only 14 when the referendum happened, so there was a huge amount of my peers who never got the chance to have their voices heard.”

Protestors held up placards before the march expressing their discontent with leaving the EU, including “The road to re-join the EU starts here”, and “Re-join, Rejoice”.

Another sign read: “Tories out, migrants welcome – Rejoin the EU”.

Individual groups from across the country, including Devon, Cornwall and Stratford, were present with personalised placards. Protestors from other European countries also attended the event with many wearing EU-styled berets.

Representatives of the Green Party also displayed a banner in solidarity of the protests. Terry Reintke, member of European Parliament from Germany and co-chairwoman of the Green Group in the parliament, said Europeans see events like the march with “a lot of sympathy” and that the UK is viewed as an “absolutely integral partner”.

She said: “The UK has managed to build one of the biggest pro-European movements across Europe, and we can still feel there are so many millions of people in the UK who want to rejoin the EU.” Asked whether there had been discussions in European Parliament about the UK’s possible return, Reintke said: “If there was a willingness to re-join, our door would be open.”

Lisa Burton, 53, from Rhonda Valley in Wales, now lives in Lanzarote, Spain and is vice chairwoman of campaigning group Bremain in Spain. She said: “It’s just becoming evident of the damages of Brexit – every sector is suffering.

“We’re British immigrants living in the EU who took advantage of the freedom of movement, and I feel British people have a very warped image of what that is – they think it’s only inward. We think that sticking plasters over Brexit is never going to be enough,” Burton added.

The opposition Labour Party leader Keir Starmer on Friday was forced to deny he wanted to rejoin the EU after recent comments led the ruling Conservatives to accuse him of wanting to “unpick Brexit”.

Starmer insisted there was no case for returning to the EU, its customs union or the single market. The leader of the Liberal Democrats, the fourth largest party in parliament, has also said voters are no longer “talking about Europe” on the doorstep.

The Lib Dems had previously pledged to “stop Brexit”. “We want Britain to be back at the heart of Europe but we’re also realistic that’s going to take some time,” Ed Davey said ahead of his party’s annual conference on Saturday.

On the march reaching Parliament Square, dancers waved EU flags while preparations were made for the speeches. German MEP Terry Reintke told those watching: “When I see thousands of Europeans in the streets it makes me so hopeful that we will be back together again.

“The EU is far from perfect we know this. We live in a cost of living crisis, we see war in Ukraine where geopolitical situation is really hard. Europeans are struggling. It’s even more important for EU to stand together.

“People are clear we want the UK to be part of that we want the UK to rejoin the European Union. We are still with you, we love you and we want you back.”

ALSO READ-Labour will re-write Brexit deal, says Starmer  

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Food London News Restaurant Reviews

Knightsbridge Culinary Icon, Sumosan Twiga, To Reopen In September 2023

One of London’s most loved dining spots, Sumosan Twiga, has announced a dramatic interior renovation and refresh to all entertainment, ushering in a new era for the Knightsbridge venue from September 2023. After being established by entrepreneur and F1 legend, Flavio Briatore in 1998, the Twiga brand landed in Knightsbridge in 2016 as an iconic partnership between two renowned restaurants, Sumosan and Twiga, bringing exceptional Japanese and Italian cuisine together under one roof. An exclusive feature by FnB columnist Riccha Grrover for Asian Lite International.

The famed restaurant has something for everyone, as the space transforms from an intimate dinner spot into a buzzing venue as the evening goes on, from after-work aperitivo, to dinner dates, to late- night dancing with friends.

The three-storey venue has been renovated from top to bottom, including the second-floor bar, the first-floor restaurant and the downstairs club. 

The new interiors reflect Briatore’s love of Africa, which originally inspired the Twiga concept as he sought to translate his fascination with the coastal landscape of Malindi, Kenya, into a welcoming yet glamorous gathering spot. Sumosan’s style is also present, with Japanese artwork hanging on the walls, a new cocktails list with signature Japanese flavours, and a new open kitchen counter in the restaurant, where guests can watch the chefs as they create exquisite sushi selections and other Japanese dishes.

Throughout the venue, a savannah-inspired colour palette and motifs takes prominence, including plush velvet and leather furnishings in clay, gold and amber tones and a bold zebra-stripe carpet along the three-storey staircase.

The restaurant

For sophisticated dining, the first-floor restaurant has been completely revamped including a striking, geometric black and white tiled floor made from Italian marble. The monochromatic theme continues with checked dogtooth curtains, an impressive black marble fireplace and black picture frames highlighting the curated African and Asian objets d’art. The restaurant is ideal for sophisticated dinners, with à la carte Japanese and Italian menus, and a weekly programme of entertainment including live bands and DJs.

The bar

Just upstairs, on the second floor, the bar promises a vibrant and high-energy evening for guests visiting for drinks, nibbles and great music. Whilst resident DJs play live sets, guests can dine from the snack menu or the full à la carte, as well as a new cocktail menu inspired by Japanese tastes and traditions. By early evening, the space transforms as the music is turned up and guests get on their feet to dance and socialise.

Sumosan Twiga will unveil its new look in September 2023 alongside a revitalised programme of guest DJs, live music and special events.

About Sumosan Twiga

Sumosan Twiga opened in November 2016 on Sloane Street in Knightsbridge, a unique partnership between the Sumosan and Twiga brands, offering side-by-side Japanese and Italian dining. The hotspot is renowned for its sophisticated social scene and regular appearances from guest DJs and live entertainment. Sumosan Twiga will undergo a dramatic transformation this summer, unveiling its new look interiors in September 2023.

About Sumosan

Sumosan is a restaurant group founded by Alexander Wolkow and his daughter, Janina, who opened their first sushi bar in Moscow in 1997. Having popularised Japanese cuisine in the region, Sumosan has since opened restaurants all over the world, including Courchevel, Berlin, Crete, Dubai, Doha and Riyadh.

About Twiga

Twiga was founded by Italian entrepreneur and F1 legend Flavio Briatore, who channelled his love for Africa into creating a new hospitality concept that reflected the charm of the Kenyan city of Malindi. The first Twiga opened in Forte dei Marmi, Italy, in 1998, and the group now operates four venues, in Forte dei Marmi, Monte Carlo, London and Doha. Twiga is part of Majestas, which includes Billionaire, Crazy Pizza, Cova Montecarlo and Cipriani Montecarlo.

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-Top News India News London News

Indian Mission in London Launches New Initiative For Fresher Students

Students can visit special kiosks at the India House (High Commission building) at Aldwych from Sept 26-Oct 9 on weekdays to avail of services like documentation help, consular assistance, opening local bank accounts, and registering with the High Commission for future needs, reports Asian Lite News

Aiming to help the Indian students arriving in the United Kingdom for the September 2023 intake for higher studies, the Indian High Commission in London has launched the ‘Home Away from Home’ initiative to assist fresh Indian students arriving in the UK, said a release from Indian High Commission in London.

Under the initiative, Students can visit special kiosks at the India House (High Commission building) at Aldwych from Sept 26-Oct 9 on weekdays to avail of services like documentation help, consular assistance, opening local bank accounts, and registering with the High Commission for future needs.

The release added that the Complimentary lunch will also be provided as a welcome gesture to students who come for registration. In a post on X the Indian High Commission shared details of its consular assistance.

Apart from this, a welcome event on October 10, hosted by the Indian High Commissioner Vikram Doraiswami will also be organised at the Indian High Commission premises in London, and will also be live-streamed.

The event will allow networking between senior and new students and shall orient new Indian students in the UK and provide helpful information to the newcomers, added the official press release. (ANI)

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Lite Blogs Music UK News

The Man who really introduced Indian Classical Music to the UK

One of Viram’s central missions in life was to create awareness in the UK for one of the most sophisticated music systems in the world…reports Asian Lite News

Viram Jasani, a distinguished figure in the introduction and development of Indian classical music to the UK, is proud to announce the release of his memoir, titled “Independence to Freedom.” This captivating book chronicles the remarkable journey of migration, cultural fusion, and personal transformation that has shaped his extraordinary life.

Born in Kenya in 1945, Viram Jasani’s family embarked on a poignant migration from rural Gujarat to Nairobi, Kenya, amidst the backdrop of the struggles for independence from British rule. The book vividly illustrates the impact of these historic events on a traditional Hindu Gujarati family, and how they eventually found themselves in the bustling city of London in 1949.

Growing up in London, Viram grappled with the challenges of living between two distinct cultures. However, he discovered solace and resolution through his deep passion for Indian classical music and Vedantic philosophy. This powerful combination of influences allowed him to maintain and imbibe the best of both worlds.

Viram’s parents played a significant role in shaping his worldview. His mother, Hemkunver, lived a life devoted to bhakti, or spiritual devotion, while his father, Manilal, engaged with the world while remaining spiritually grounded in his love for Indian classical music and philosophy. These profound characteristics were passed down to Viram, who fell in love with Indian classical music from a very young age.

Viram’s musical abilities and interests were diverse. During his student days, he fearlessly explored collaborations, including playing his sitar with jazz musicians and even sharing the stage with legendary guitarist Jimmy Page of Led Zeppelin. Despite these exciting ventures, his unwavering passion for traditional Indian classical music remained at the core of his artistic pursuits.

Viram Jasani

One of Viram’s central missions in life was to create awareness in the UK for one of the most sophisticated music systems in the world. He dedicated himself to becoming an authority as a performer, advocate, and producer of Indian music throughout the UK and Europe. Over the course of three decades, he orchestrated approximately one hundred iconic musical events each year, contributing significantly to the enrichment of cultural diversity in these regions.

Viram Jasani’s path to success was not without its challenges. He faced racism and prejudice, both from the British arts elite and fellow Indians. However, these obstacles only fuelled his determination to overcome them. He embarked on a profound journey into Vedantic philosophy, which ultimately led him to find his own path to freedom, embracing his cultural heritage and artistic pursuits with unwavering passion.

Viram Jasani’s memoir, “Independence to Freedom,” is a poignant and inspirational tale of resilience, cultural fusion, and the pursuit of artistic excellence. Through his captivating storytelling, readers will gain insight into the transformative power of music, philosophy, and the human spirit.

Viram Jasani graduated from St. Andrews University in 1967 and the School of Oriental and African Studies in London in 1969. He was elected a Fellow of the Royal Society for the Arts (FRSA) in 1993 and received an Honorary doctorate from the University of York in 2005.

For further information, images or interviews, please call Pedro on 07831 556 951

Or e mail fnik@btconnect.com

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Fashion Lite Blogs London News

The Bank: Multi-Brand Luxury Boutique

Visit ‘The Bank’: A New Multi-Brand Boutique Clothes Shop in St John’s Wood, London, with exceptionally curated designer pieces. An exclusive feature by lifestyle and fashion columnist Riccha Grrover for Asian Lite International.

A new multi-brand boutique, ‘The Bank’, has recently opened its doors to fashion enthusiasts offering specially curated pieces from luxury designers. Located on St John’s Wood High Street, ’The Bank’ carries a hand-picked selection of clothing, accessories, and lifestyle pieces.

Elaine and Paul Davies, husband-and-wife-duo are the visionaries behind ‘The Bank,’; Elaine has been in the business for over 40 years, starting her career with style guru Joseph Ettedgui and going on to partner with him, before breaking away to launch her own venture. Elaine is a connoisseur of fashion and trusted in the community to put together the wardrobes of many high profile women, with her keen eye for style and an understanding for her clients needs.

Walking into the store you discover a world of contemporary and classic designer heaven, in a beautiful and relaxing setting. The space was designed by Eva Jirichna, a Czech born architect and interior designer, who is best known for her work for Boodles Jewellers, V&A Museum as well as Selfridges and Harrods. It gives shoppers the opportunity to try their ready-to-wear pieces, accessories and shoes, from designers they carry such as Cult Gaia, Max Mara, Saloni, Galvan and Zimmerman.

The Bank has now opened its doors offering their unique collection of carefully selected pieces. You can find the boutique at 102 St John’s Wood High Street.