Month: May 2023

London, May 20, 2023 – Prominet educationist  Sandeep Marwah has reasons to rejoice. The ground-breaking publication titled “8 years of Modi Sarkar: A Compilation of Achievements” which has taken the Indian diaspora by storm was unveiled by Lord Rami Ranger in the prestigious House of Lords at the British Parliament in London. Authored and brilliantly compiled by Sandeep Marwah, President of International Chamber of Media and Entertainment Industry (ICMEI), this monumental work sheds light on the remarkable accomplishments of the Indian government spanning eight years so far.

The release of this book marks a significant milestone as it represents the first-ever book on Prime Minister Narendra Modi to be presented within the esteemed halls of the House of Lords. The credit for this commendable feat goes to the dynamic Marwah, whose unwavering dedication and painstaking efforts have encapsulated the comprehensive range of India’s achievements between two hard covers.

Addressing the distinguished guests comprising London’s elite, Lord Ranger expressed his astonishment at the depth and breadth of the accomplishments chronicled within a single book. He acknowledged that prior to its publication, the true extent of India’s progress remained largely unknown, making this book an invaluable resource and reference for individuals seeking to familiarise themselves with the government’s multifaceted endeavours and achievements in various fronts.

Marwah, speaking at the momentous occasion, emphasised the meticulousness employed in compiling the book’s contents. It features a lucid and concise writing style, presented in a point-wise, department-wise format to ensure accessibility and understanding for a diverse readership. Marwah further reiterated his desire for an international release of the book aiming to rectify the misinformation that has often permeated global perceptions of India’s accomplishments.

It may be noted that the first copy of the book was presented to the esteemed former President of India, Shri Ram Nath Kovind, before being officially launched in London. The release of this seminal work is poised to illuminate the immense progress and development witnessed in India over the past eight years, dispelling misconceptions and fostering a deeper appreciation for the nation’s remarkable achievements.

“8 years of Modi Sarkar: A Compilation of Achievements” is set to serve as an authoritative reference for individuals, scholars and policymakers, providing a comprehensive understanding of India’s transformative journey under the able leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

A book of outstanding value and accomplishment! Happy reading..

Icmei’s Landmark Book On Modi Govt Unveiled In House Of Lords

In a grand event held in Mumbai, the Gem and Jewellery Export Promotion Council of India (GJEPC) unveiled the winners of the highly anticipated 6th edition of Artisan Awards 2023, the country’s esteemed jewellery design competition. This prestigious event, organized by GJEPC, showcased the exceptional talent and creativity of jewellery designers from across the nation and around the world. Artisan Awards is an endeavour that aims to provide a platform for creative jewellery designers and industry professionals to maximise their individualistic and creative ideas in jewellery design. 

Artisan Awards 2023 is powered by GIA – Gemological Institute of America, The World’s Foremost Authority in Gemology.The winners received their trophies from Guest of Honour, Ms. Mira Kapoor, Content Creator & Jewellery Connoisseur along with Mr. Nikhil Mehra of Shantnu & Nikhil; Mr. Vipul Shah, Chairman of GJEPC, Mr. Milan Chokshi, Convener of Promotions and Marketing, GJEPC, and Mr. Sabyasachi Ray, Executive Director, GJEPC.

Since its inception, the Artisan Awards has received a total of 4,200 submissions from artists spanning various genres and styles. These submissions were meticulously reviewed and evaluated, culminating in the selection of 178 outstanding finalists. Among the finalists, 55 remarkable individuals emerged as winners, gaining well-deserved recognition for their exceptional artistic prowess. For the current year, Artisan Awards witnessed over 600 entries pouring in from 26 cities across India, as well as from regions abroad, including the Middle East, North America, and Europe. The Artisan continues to attract a diverse range of artists from around the world.

The Theme of The Artisan Awards 2023 was indiamoderne – the world of art meets modern jewellery. The theme was further divided into three distinct categories with each focusing on different genre, namely, Art of Abstraction, Art of Sculpture, and Art of Print. Vipul Shah, Chairman, GJEPC, commented, “While India’s global leadership in the gem & jewellery business is an established fact, we need to shape the future where India is revered for its aesthetic artistry, design innovation and commitment to exquisite craftsmanship. To cater to the evolving demands of the global market, we need a fresh wave of young and talented designers who eulogise the preferences of the millennial and Generation Z consumers.

Their innovative approaches and creative sensibilities will shape the industry’s future trajectory.”Shah further added, “The Artisan Awards is one of the initiatives that nurtures talent, fuels inspiration, and encourages the next generation of jewellery designers to push the boundaries of their imagination. In a rapidly evolving gem and jewellery industry where innovation and fresh perspectives reign supreme, the Artisan Awards serves as a launching pad for emerging designers to make their mark.”The judging process of the Artisan Awards involved three phases, ensuring a comprehensive assessment of the jewellery pieces.

In the first round, the entries underwent a meticulous technical evaluation, focusing on their craftsmanship and technical excellence. This was followed by a second jury meet, where a panel of esteemed experts deliberated and shortlisted 28 final sketches that showcased exceptional creativity and innovation. In the final phase, the judging panel meticulously examined the 28 shortlisted designs, selecting the top 9 winning pieces that truly stood out in terms of their originality, aesthetic appeal, and ability to push the boundaries of jewellery design.

The esteemed jury members for the Artisan Awards 2023 were Mira Kapoor, Content Creator & Jewellery Connoisseur; Aparajita Jain, Director and Co-owner, Nature Morte Gallery; Priyanka Khanna, Author; Nikhil Mehra, Fashion Designer, Shantnu & Nikhil; Sajil Shah, Jewellery Artist & Founder, Sajjante; Pernia Qureshi, Co-Founder, Saritoria; and Sriram Natarajan, Managing Director, GIA India. Their profound expertise and discerning eye have played a pivotal role in recognizing the exceptional talents among our participants.

Milan Chokshi, Convener of the Promotion, Marketing & Business Development Sub-committee, GJEPC, added, “Every year, we strive to exceed expectations and inspire participants to unleash their creativity and showcase their individuality through The Artisan Awards. By pushing the boundaries of conventional jewellery-making, we seek to create designs that captivate both the domestic and global markets. GJEPC takes great pride in providing a platform for jewellery designers to express themselves and push their creative limits through this prestigious competition.

May the passion, dedication, and creativity of our talented designers ignite a flame within us all, propelling us to pursue excellence and redefine the boundaries of artistic expression.” Mira Kapoor, Content Creator & Jewellery Connoisseur commented, “Jewellery has always been integral to our culture, and we’ve seen it evolve over time. But if you want it to stay relevant, you require new minds with creative genius and a new vision. The Artisan Awards is actually spearheading this initiative, and lending support to jewellery designers to think out of the box, and not be limited by money or by what sells in the market, but just think freely when it comes to creativity. That’s when the magic happens. I’ve seen some truly unique pieces, which I’ve never seen before and I’m really happy to part of the jury. It’s great that GJEPC is giving this kind of platform to upcoming jewellery designers.”Mira further added, “As a jewellery aficionado, I am intrigued to see the kind of jewellery pieces coming out of our country.

Artisan Awards is the first step to creating a design sense or a design house or the one star jewellery designer that could be recognized from India, celebrating Indian craftmanship and the story that we have to tell as India on the canvas of jewellery.”Nikhil Mehra of Shantnu & Nikhil noted, “I think fashion and jewellery go really well together. In fact, post the making of our collections, there’s always a conversation on what kind of jewellery will go with the product. So, there’s a lot of synergy between the two streams. A lot of times, we also get inspired by jewellery. We have been hugely inspired by men’s jewellery and we started making brooches and buttons in 2015 and militarised them to glorify India through these accessories.

We may want to extend the journey in the future, and go into the precious jewellery space with matte gold. There is a huge opportunity in the men’s jewellery segment. The Artisan is an important platform of applauding great talent.”Pernia Qureshi was impressed by the entries in the first category, she shared her views about the Artisan Awards in general. “The abstractionism segment was very colourful, it was fun. Most of the pieces were well finished and wearable. Designers play a big role in translating ideas into actual pieces. It’s important to upskill and pay the designers well as they are the future of the jewellery industry.”Speaking like a true-blue gallerist, Aparijita Jain commented that “Art transcends or translates into many kinds of expression, jewellery being one of them.

It is interesting for designers to be inspired by different art forms. I am amazed at the transformation of pieces from the sketch to actual jewellery pieces. I think the finishing was brilliant.”Sriram Natarajan, Managing Director, GIA India said, “GIA India is pleased to support Artisan Awards – a platform created by the Gem and Jewellery Export Promotion Council (GJEPC) to unearth hidden talent and to unleash the potential of discovered talent. It’s interesting that the participation was in the form of 600 entries from 26 cities across four countries – a marker of the ever-increasing outreach of GJEPC for including the rapidly expanding Indian gem and jewellery industry’s members into all its initiatives.

During The Artisan Awards 2023, Millennials & Gen-Z designers have taken inspiration from some of the most cherished artworks in the world, across three categories: Abstract Paintings, Sculptures, and Prints. They have given their imagination a free rein and used visual references provided as a starting point to explore the rich world of innovative jewellery design. Literal recreations of the artworks, though welcome, are not a requirement.

Think form, think space, think shape, or think colour is the motto and the possibilities are endless.Here are the Winners & finalists of The Artisan Awards 2023:

——–Ramakant Munde Mumbai Representative

Celebrating Excellence GJEPC Unveils Artisan Awards 2023 Winners

Chief Minister Thakur Sukhwinder Singh Sukhu released the video album ‘Jogiya’ produced by Jagat Gautam sharma Entertainment at Hotel Marina Shimla. On this occasion, the Chief Minister extended best wishes for the success of the album and appreciated the increasing popularity of Himachali artists at the national and international level. He said that all the artists who contributed to the album are from Himachal and through this album they have displayed their unique talent.

Thakur Sukhwinder Singh Sukhu, emphasizing on promoting the traditions and values of the state in Himachali music, said that through such efforts, where the young generation gets an opportunity to get acquainted with the cultural heritage of the land of God, the culture of Himachal is being promoted in the country and abroad. It will also help in making me popular. He also emphasized on the importance of hard work in achieving success in life. He inspired the youth to move ahead facing the challenges of life.

Earlier, the Chief Managing Director of the company Jagat Gautam welcomed the Chief Minister. Rural Development and Panchayati Raj Minister Anirudh Singh, Chief Parliamentary Secretary Sanjay Awasthi, former Union Minister of State Deepa Das Munshi, MLA Kewal Singh Pathania, OSD to Chief Minister Gopal Sharma, Congress leader Vivek Sharma, Additional Deputy Commissioner Shimla Shivam Pratap Singh and others were present on the occasion. The owner of Dhamaka Records,Mumbai Mr. Paras Mehta was also present at this moment.

Chief Minister Of Himachal Pradesh Sukhwinder Singh Sukhu Launch JOGIYA By Jagat Gautam Sharma

London, May 20, 2023 – A ground-breaking publication titled “8 years of Modi Sarkar: A Compilation of Achievements” has taken the Indian diaspora by storm as it was unveiled by Lord Rami Ranger in the prestigious House of Lords at the British Parliament in London. Authored by Sandeep Marwah, President of the International Chamber of Media and Entertainment Industry (ICMEI), this monumental work sheds light on the remarkable accomplishments of the Indian government over the past eight years.

The release of this book marks a significant milestone as it represents the first-ever book on Prime Minister Narendra Modi to be presented within the esteemed halls of the House of Lords. The credit for this commendable feat goes to Sandeep Marwah, whose unwavering dedication and painstaking efforts have encapsulated the comprehensive range of India’s achievements between two hard covers.

Addressing the distinguished guests comprising London’s elite, Lord Rami Ranger expressed his astonishment at the depth and breadth of the accomplishments chronicled within the book. He acknowledged that prior to its publication, the true extent of India’s progress remained largely unknown, making this book an invaluable resource for individuals seeking to familiarize themselves with the government’s multifaceted endeavours.

Sandeep Marwah, speaking at the momentous occasion, emphasized the meticulousness employed in compiling the book’s contents. It features a lucid and concise writing style, presented in a point-wise, department-wise format to ensure accessibility and understanding for a diverse readership. Marwah further emphasized his desire for an international release, aiming to rectify the misinformation that has often permeated global perceptions of India’s accomplishments.

The first copy of the book was presented to the esteemed former President of India, Shri Ram Nath Kovind, before being officially launched in London. The release of this seminal work is poised to illuminate the immense progress and development witnessed in India over the past eight years, dispelling misconceptions and fostering a deeper appreciation for the nation’s remarkable achievements.

“8 years of Modi Sarkar: A Compilation of Achievements” is set to serve as an authoritative reference for individuals, scholars, and policymakers, providing a comprehensive understanding of India’s transformative journey under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

8 Years Of Modi Sarkar Book Released In British Parliament

KALASHRI DR LATA SURENDRA (CURATOR- ARDHANG )

 ‘Art from the heart with Diksha ‘then to now ‘ by eminent practitioners of the art transformed the conference room of Mysore Association, Mumbai to a pulsating cosmos .

The speakers were Dr Uma Rele (Principal Nalanda Nritya Kala Mahavidyalaya, Juhu, Mumbai . Padmashri Sunayana Hazarilal ( Kathak), Kalaratna Guru Smt A.B. Balakondala Rao-Balakka ( Kuchipudi) Dr Jayashree Rajagopalan( Bharata Natyam), Smt Rajashree Shirke ( Kathak) , Guru Lata Raman( BharataNatyam), Dr Aruna Bhikshu( Kuchipudi) Prateesha Suresh ( Sattriya) Jigar Soni( Folk-Garbha).

Eminent Speakers at conference

The timeless journey when Diksha was an absolute communion unto their eminent Gurus was so intensely absorbing for some that time stood still for them . In fact their journey down memory lane awakened all young teachers and disciples to the defining threads that was embraced in the meaningful bond between Guru and Shishya .One should have more Art to heart chats in the city to raise common platforms where artistic ‘gupshups’ could happen to resolve many a storm in artistic tea-cups !

The evening performances highlighted ARDHANG – ‘ in every half is the other’, that Curator Kalashri Dr Lata Surendra urged artists to explore .

Guru Smt Jhelum Paranjape

The prelude was set with the sound and silence defined through an intricate Alarippu in Sankeernajathi Triputa Thalam ( 13 ahsharams) by Lata’s dedicated Senior disciple Kum Ananya Mohan Iyer . The live orchestra with Lata herself deftly wielding the Nattuvangam , melodious Keerthana Krishnan Vocal Shri Chandran – Mridangam and Violin by Shri Balasubramaniam highlighted the Guru-shishya connect beautifully!The crossrhythms , the potent silence and sound interludes and the dialogue between thalam,percussion and Visual kinesthetics of BharataNatyam caught everyone ‘s attention . The interesting aspect was the weaving of Surdas ‘s composition into the traditional Dhanyasi Varnam by Papanasam Shivam that followed , to have the cosmopolitan crowd connect to the colour that is a Varnam, highlighting the universality of emotions in man be it any terrain.

In keeping with the theme of ARDHANG , was the exploring by one who is known for her imaginative draping of themes through Odissi – Guru Jhelum Paranjape who highlighted that lyrics and words, ,,the instrument and chords , the dance and the dancer the Lord and the devotee are never mutually exclusive of each other . ARDHANGA it was at its best!

Aditya Anukula & Kum Varsha Pachhava

(Disciples of Kala Ratna Guru A.B . Balakondala Rao)

With the child comes to life the Mother!. A bond that ,was evocatively explored by Mother and daughter – Dr Uma Rele & Dr Vaidehi Rele .With sensitivity they highlighted the choreography by the legendary Padmabhushan Dr Kanak Rele .Mitali Varadkar & Shreya Sabharwal the committed sishyas of Guru Shubhada Varadkar brought out the connect of Jeeva with Atma through Adi Shankaracharya’s Nirvanashatakam . One witnessed a lot of Kuchipudi this time with legends who had not been seen much in the Mumbai art scene! Aditya Anukula the accomplished Kuchipudi Exponent & Nattuvanar , Son of Kalaratna Guru Smt A.B. Balakondala Rao ( Balakka) and her very dedicated Senior Disciple Kum Varsha Pachhava draped the complimenting halves etching nonduality through a breath- taking choreography that coloured the pulsating oneness of Shiva and Parvati , through the composition by Pulyur/,Pallavi Doraiswami Iyer , Adenamma in Paras. It was Kuchipudi with the signature style of Balakka enhancing ARDHANG to glorious heights.

Guru Dr Uma Rele & Guru Vaidehi Rele – Lal

Bhang – Abhang the enlightening of Cupid by the Enlightened one – Budha was an interesting exploration through the folds of Kathak by Guru Smt Ranjana Phadke with her disciples. Normally one associates Manmatha with Shiva whose wrath reduced cupid to ashes but when the same arrows were directed on Budha ..Cupid got enlightenment ! Parvathy Menon the seasoned Kuchipudi Exponent and disciple of Guru Smt Bala Kondala Rao and Kalamandalam Guru Smt Mohana Thulasi brought out the dualistic aspect of Mother Nature as the Merciless and all- merciful .Rohini and Ashwini Vij paid a tribute unto their Guru Manisha Jeet with the balancing equanimity gathered through the introspective mind aligning conflicting thought processes Accomplished Mohiniattam Exponent Sujatha Nair- daughter and disciple of Guru Jayashree Nair brought to life the romance between the Wave and the shore through Khalil Gibran’s poem – Song of the wave.

A gracefully executed defining by Kathak Exponent & Teacher Smriti Raj communicated a strong message throughChapthilak by Amīr Khusrau- the Indian Sufi singer, ” i am in YOU and you in me..Tomorrow let it not be said that,YOU are someone and i am Someone else’ Committed Kathak Exponent, choreographer and Mentor Chetan Saraiya explorred Sambhog Sringara love in union through Radha and Krishna and Viyog Sringar through Meera . Drought and Rain a thought provoking choreography, etching Rain as nurturing hope and drought as the negation of it was presented by disciples of Imaginative Guru Geetha Venkateshwar.

The other side to everything in this world through the Character of Sage Dronacharya was what the Kathak Exponent & Mentor Anu Harshal with Disciples presented through various episodes in theSage’s life .Aham Nrityam … I am the dance gathered the poetic synergy of two styles by two very accomplished practitioners , Bharatanatyam by Sujatha Swaminathan and Kathak by Pallavi Raisurana.

Guru Dr Aruna Bhikshu & Kum Mahati Bhikshu

Tandava and Lasya signifying the duality of energies. was explored through an absorbing presentation of Taal Dhamaar – A 14 beats Rhythmic cycle by the very innovative Kathak Exponent,Teacher Isha Kathavate and equally complimenting disciples . It was amazing how the theme opened outto such diversely enlightening pathways .‘Manas Samvaada, a conversation between Manas and the emotions explored the intertwined relationship between Hope and Fear . Draped in Kuchipudi it was an absorbing Choreography by Noted exponent Mentor Choreographer,Filmmaker & researcher Dr Aruna Bhikshu & her daughter Mahata Bhikshu Ameya .K. Nambiar disciple of renowned Guru Kalamandalam Mohanathulasi. depicted Prakruti and Purusha through the Ardhanareeswara Stotra composed by His holiness Sri Adi Shankaracharya.

One also gives credit to Saritha Nidheesh for the chaste Angashudham the beautiful young dancer from Kochi-Kerala displayed in her execution.The very imaginative Kathak Exponent Teacher and Choreographer Guru Manisha Jeet defined Ardhang through the antonyms – Stillness and movement !Space and time gives birth to stillness and movement that causes Lethargy and Energy.

Very skillfully she related it to the Vilambit and Drut laya.highlighted the nondual essence ensuing in their togetherness. One among the City’s own Kuchipudi Guru Kalamandalam Vijayshree Pillai reached out with an interesting choreography invoking Goddess Saraswati as the epitome of wisdom nullifying ignorance Her dedicated disciples complimented the theme in all oneness.

Guru Ranjana Phadke & Disciples

Harihara – the different aspects of the same Ultimate Reality Brahman was very evocatively explored by the talented disciples of Guru Padmini Radhakrishnan. Dusk and Dawn endorsing diverse canvases mirroring new beginnings and the conclusive end that rounds all life was highlighted by BharataNatyam exponent. Dr Chandrika Sundaresan . Kathak exponent and teacher Aditi Yadav with her disciples highlighted Diksha as the complete bonding carrying transitions in the journey from mime to a spontaneous dilineation . Visual Story teller Debabrata Pal depicted the Amrut -manthan & kurma vatar , painted by his feet with the symbolic churning depicted through dance.

Kalashree Dr Lata Surendra’s disciples explored light and shade through – dancing shadows a visually arresting choreography with skilllful usage of a veil and stage-craft by Shri Suresh Pednekar. The Lavani by researcher Charushila Golam and the infectious folk by Shri Mukesh Darbar from Nepanagar embraced oneness through rhythms. ARDHANG – in every half is the other and its visual exploring moved every heart leaving the auditorium , endorsing the timeless connect between Arts and the Rasikas – a bond highlighting that each necessarily needed the other to lift life from the level of the mundane to the sublime !

Disciple Parvati Menon with Guru Kalamandalam Mohanathulasi & Guru Bala Kondala Rao

As curator Kalashri Dr Lata Surendra put it ‘There is so much seeking to be explored , re-discovered within us andwaitiing to be shraed A conference and converging through performances like this provides all artistes a space to reach out with their viewpoint and for the students and rasikas, it accords an idea of what actually goes into the creative process . It is important to converge as a fraternity, to ensure the perpetuation of the Art in this world of breaking news . The sustaining of the Artist and the Art through the spoken and delineated WORD should awaken all to Dance , as a bridging metaphor linking worlds ‘ SPONSOR: MAHINDRA FiNANCE Lights – Shri Pednekar Sound – Shri Nandlal Rele Pic Credits- Shri Girish Nambiar Poster Credits: Shri Madhusudan Menon.

Celebrating World Dance Day Curated By KALASHRI Dr Lata Surendra With Conference And Performances Defining ARDHANG