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Sunday, March 3, 2024

Journey Through Bengal's Artistic Heart: Art Fair Unveils Treasures"




Discover the captivating world of art at the Saltlake Affordable Art Fair, held on 2nd and 3rd March at Aikyatan SaltLake. Showcasing the vibrant creativity of artists from across Bengal, this event promises to be a feast for the senses. From stunning paintings to intricate sculptures.




The fair was inaugurated by chief guest Mr Qin Yong acting Consul General of the People's Republic of China and Mallika Chanda, the curator of the event and Founder of Daughtor Art Gallery.




Yong's perspective highlights the importance of events that bridge the gap between artists and society, emphasizing the cultural richness of West Bengal in India. Open fairs like the one described provide platforms for artists to connect with audiences and foster a deeper appreciation for art and culture.




The spectacular event truly lived up to its promises, delivering a celebration of art accessible to all who attended. With over 100 talented artists showcasing their creativity, and displaying more than 2000 captivating artworks ranging from paintings to sculptures, photography to mixed media, there was something to captivate every art enthusiast's imagination. The live pottery sessions added an interactive dimension, providing attendees with hands-on experience and further enriching the artistic atmosphere. It was a memorable occasion that highlighted the diverse talents and mediums within the art community, leaving attendees inspired and enriched by the experience.



Thursday, February 29, 2024

Masa Awards 2024: Shining a Light on Excellence in MSMEs and Startups




Kolkata glittered with entrepreneurial spirit on January 28th, 2024, as the Masa Awards 2024 unfolded at the esteemed ICCR. Organized by the Mantras Foundation and Ideacade Digital Solutions, the event celebrated the remarkable achievements of individuals and businesses within the MSME (Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises) and startup ecosystem.

Gracing the occasion were distinguished guests, including Padma Shri awardee Janab Kazi Masum Akhtar and Mr. TVs Shenoy, Director of Idearcade Pratayay Sur, Chief Commercial Officer of the Tata Group,  cyber guru Rajarshi Rai Choudhury . Their presence underscored the importance of recognizing and nurturing talent within the entrepreneurial community.


The night belonged to the awardees, a diverse group who have made their mark in various industries:

  • Startups: Drivers4Me, Aqua Doctor Solutions, and Ashdhir Creations LLP were lauded for their innovative contributions, exemplifying the power of entrepreneurial spirit.

  • Individuals: Special recognition was given to individuals like Ashtamee, Sarmistha Mondal, and CA Vivek Agarwal, whose talent and dedication shone through. NGOs like Helping Hands also received well-deserved recognition for their impactful work.

  • MSMEs: Object D Art, Pushpita Handicraft Products, and Tufwud Doors and Accessories Pvt Ltd were celebrated for their exceptional craftsmanship and contributions to their respective sectors.




Beyond the awards, the evening was filled with inspiring words:

The Masa Awards 2024 resonated with inspiring words from esteemed guests, each adding their unique perspective to the evening's spirit of celebration.





Mentor of Masa Award ViborTandan addressed the gathering, emphasizing the significance of recognition: "If you are doing something impactful and that gets recognized, that is the most important thing in life: Recognition of Excellence. And as Masa Awards demonstrate, there are no boundaries in celebrating excellence. From urban to rural to metropolitan areas, there's scope for everyone doing something impactful."


Chief Guest Kazi Masum Aktar commended the Masa Awards for their role in empowering individuals: "Masa is doing a great job by igniting the way for enthusiastic individuals to go the extra mile. They provide recognition to professionals and inspire the youth to join the entrepreneurial journey, ultimately contributing to bringing back India's glory in the business arena."


Commander V K Jaitly lauded the initiative's impact on Bengal: "The Masa Awards are doing a great initiative by recognizing the talents of Bengal, motivating them to reclaim the glory of Kolkata and West Bengal, and transform Bengal back into the 'Sonar Bangla' it once was. He also extended a message to startups: "If your ideas are impactful, unique, and you possess the spark and determination to succeed, recognition will surely follow."


These inspiring words resonated throughout the evening, leaving the audience motivated and empowered to pursue their own entrepreneurial journeys and contribute to a brighter future.


More than just an awards ceremony, the Masa


Awards provided a platform for:

  • Networking: Industry leaders, entrepreneurs, and professionals connected and formed valuable partnerships.

  • Collaboration: The event fostered a collaborative spirit, propelling collective growth and progress within the MSME and startup ecosystem.


The Masa Awards 2024
 stood as a testament to the power of recognizing and celebrating excellence. By showcasing success stories and fostering collaboration, the awards aim to nurture a thriving ecosystem where innovation and entrepreneurship flourish. This spirit of celebration lays the foundation for a brighter tomorrow, where individuals and businesses can collaborate to create positive change.

Sunday, February 25, 2024

Sada ronger prithibi: A Promising Cast Struggles with Clichés and Melodramap



O
nce upon a time, Vrindavan and Benares were like safe havens for Bengali widows who had nowhere else to turn. Whether they were young, old, or somewhere in between, these women found themselves drawn to these sacred cities as if by fate. But now, in the twenty-first century, one might wonder: has the once bleak landscape of widowhood blossomed into a colorful tapestry of possibilities? Or does the shadow of despair still linger behind the facade of serenity?


Director Rajarshi Dey's latest offering, "Sada Ranger Prithivi," delves into a dark and unsettling narrative, depicting the plight of Bengali widows trapped in a nightmarish existence. Dey skillfully crafts a tale set against the backdrop of a liberation building that serves as anything but a sanctuary, rather a harrowing portrayal of hell on earth. At its center is the duplicitous figure of Karunananda, a hypocrite masquerading as a saint while exploiting vulnerable women within his dishonest factory.


The film weaves a tangled web of deceit and depravity, spotlighting characters like the twin sisters  Shivani and Bhavani, portrayed with depth by Srabanti as the twin sisters engaged in the despicable trade of trafficking young widows. Amidst this darkness, a beacon of hope emerges in the form of a disguised police officer and journalist, determined to dismantle the nefarious operations of the gang.


However, despite the film's compelling premise and ensemble cast, it succumbs to predictability in its plot and melodrama in its execution. While Ritabrata Mukhopadhyay's portrayal of Sunil shines with authenticity and skill, some female characters are reduced to mere caricatures, with Srabanti's role overshadowed by gratuitous sexual innuendo.


Few glimpses from the premier of the film



Srabonti and Arindam Sil deliver seasoned performances in their respective roles, adding depth and authenticity to the characters they portray. However, while Sauraseni Maitra as Lokhhi and Sneha Chatterjee as Kajol exhibit commendable effort, their performances fall slightly short of leaving a lasting impression. The detailing of the characters is notable, yet there are instances where more attention to costume and makeup could have enhanced the portrayal of the impoverished widows, bringing forth a more immersive experience for the audience.


One of the undeniable highlights of the film is the captivating musical score by Ashu Chakraborty. His compositions effectively carve out emotional spaces within the minds of the audience, enhancing key moments throughout the narrative. While the film may not reach the pinnacle of perfection, it manages to weave together a compelling story with moments of genuine resonance, making it a worthwhile watch for those seeking a nuanced exploration of human experiences.


Saturday, February 17, 2024

Star-Studded Extravaganza: Reliving 15 Years of Majestic Pride's Spectacular Journey"




Capturing Moments of Glitz and Glamour: A Glimpse into 15 Years of Majestic Pride, Goa!


In January, the majestic aura of Majestic Pride illuminated the Goan skies as it celebrated a remarkable milestone of 15 years. Each week, the stage shimmered with the presence of luminaries from diverse fields, infusing the atmosphere with unparalleled charm. From the enchanting Mouni Roy setting the tone with her mesmerizing presence to the dynamic performances of Malaika Arora, Neha Kakkar, and Shikhar Dhawan, every moment was a testament to the vibrancy of the occasion.





The fourth week dazzled with a star-studded lineup featuring Neil Nitin Mukesh, Badshah, Anasuya Bharadwaj, and Mangli, leaving the audience enthralled with their magnetic performances. Alongside, Gaurav Gupta and Sahil Horane brought laughter to the forefront with their rib-tickling comedy acts.


Beyond the glitz, the celebration embraced all with delightful food festivals, captivating aerial acts, and engaging activities for every age group. These glimpses capture the essence of a month-long extravaganza that will linger in memories for years to come.
















Wednesday, December 27, 2023

Safe Sets, Bold Stories: Nandini Sengupta Leads the Way in Tollywood's Intimacy Coordination Evolution"



Bollywood has long been a trendsetter, and the inclusion of intimacy coordinators exemplifies its commitment to fostering a safe and respectful working environment. This practice sets a noteworthy standard for the film industry as a whole. In a groundbreaking move for the Indian film industry, especially in Bengal, the role of an intimacy coordinator takes center stage for the first time. Bengal's Tollywood embraces change with the introduction of Nandini Sengupta, the first-ever intimacy coordinator in the industry who shares her experience with Sreeja Ghosh.





That's fascinating! Could you share your initial thoughts when you were offered the role of an intimacy coordinator for "Raja Rani Romeo"?


Nandini: Absolutely, it was an unexpected but exciting opportunity. I feel honoured that Joydip da trusted me with such a crucial role in the movie.


What is the role of an intimacy coordinator in the film industry, and how do they contribute to the overall production process?


Nandini: Certainly! An intimacy coordinator is a professional hired on film and television sets to ensure that intimate scenes are handled respectfully, safely, and professionally. Their role includes facilitating communication between actors, directors, and crew, establishing boundaries, and choreographing intimate scenes to make the actors feel comfortable and secure. Intimacy coordinators contribute to a positive and respectful work environment, help prevent misconduct, and prioritize the well-being of the performers involved in such scenes.



As an intimacy coordinator, what do you believe is the most crucial aspect of choreographing intimate scenes in a film?


Nandini : The key is to create a safe and comfortable environment for the actors. Communication and trust play a significant role in ensuring that the scenes are tastefully choreographed and respectful.


Given that this is a first for Bengal cinema, do you think this trend will continue, and why is it important?


Nandini: I believe it's a positive step forward for the industry. With increased awareness about the importance of consent and professionalism, having an intimacy coordinator can become a standard practice, ensuring a respectful and supportive work environment for everyone involved.


Could you elaborate on your research process regarding intimacy coordinators?


Nandini: At the start, there was some nervousness stepping into the intimacy coordinator role for 'Raja Rani Romeo.' Thankfully, director Joydeep Banerjee's continuous sharing of articles eased my apprehension. Taking cues from Bollywood's 'Gehraiyaan' and Hollywood's common practices, I've adapted my approach to ensure a smooth process.


Are there challenges in implementing this role, especially with senior actors, or do most actors in Bengal co-operate well with the concept?


Nandini : I've come across the role of an intimacy coordinator, which seems quite prevalent in Hollywood. Interestingly, here in Bengal, not everyone is well-informed about this position. Even when people are aware, there's often concern about how fellow actors may perceive it. Some seniors might not readily agree. However, on our sets, the actors are incredibly cooperative, fostering a positive and collaborative environment.

In my role, I had the responsibility of choosing and coordinating the outfits for the actors. Additionally, I focused on choreographing scenes in a way that aligned with the director's vision, conducting a week of research to ensure aesthetic appeal. It was crucial to communicate and help the actors understand the desired look and atmosphere for each set.


Why has there been a recent surge in the demand for intimacy directors in Bengali movies, despite previous instances of intimate scenes?


Nandini : See we strongly prefer intimate scenes that maintain a sense of elegance and avoid any vulgarity in their portrayal. In my work, I prioritize portraying intimate scenes as a delicate, mutual exchange, focusing on the aesthetics of love-making to offer viewers a profound and sensuous experience. In my opinion, while we've experienced aesthetic sensuous scenes, especially in Rituparno Ghosh's films, there's a need for someone to approach it with a distinct touch, adding a unique perspective to take charge of such moments.


Do you think there will be opportunities  to pursue a career as an intimacy coordinator in upcoming Bengali films?


Nandini : I'm optimistic that people will gradually embrace these updates, and I believe this evolution could lead to a promising career path.


Director Joydip Banerjee of 'Raja Rani Romeo' (which is soon going to release on OTT platform on 29th December) while talking about this said that while working we understand that Barati help is needed. Especially in the case of female actresses, sometimes there is some barrier. Sometimes there is a problem in communication. I have seen these problems in past work. When I came to know about intimacy coordinators in Bollywood and Hollywood, I thought why not here too. And it is much more professional.


At The Trailer launch of Raja Rani Romeo

Incidentally, Arpan Ghoshal played the lead role in this Raja Rani Romeo series.Swikriti Majumdar, Jayjit Banerjee, Ratashree Dutta, Kaushani Mukherjee, Jeet Das etc. 'Raja Rani Romeo 'is a love story as well as a story of betrayal and revenge.Here all the characters are gray.



























 

Thursday, December 7, 2023

Pandemic-stricken villagers revive bamboo art with NGO help in Madhya Pradesh



Khandwa, Madhya Pradesh: Living in the remote forest village of Gulaimal in Khandwa district of Madhya Pradesh, Prakash Barole (41) crafts decorative items from bamboo to earn a living. He acquired this relatively new skill after making up his mind to stop working as a migrant sugarcane cutter and find employment in his own village.




Prakash and his wife Sangeeta Barole (34) used to migrate to Beed district of Maharashtra for four months annually to work as farm labourers. Despite working for over 18 hours a day, they could barely make ends meet. During the COVID-19 outbreak and the subsequent lockdown of 2020, they found themselves stranded in Maharashtra with their employer denying them full wages. They were forced to return to Khandwa on foot — a journey of over 100 km — along with 10 others from their village. They had no money, not even to buy food.


“We both used to get Rs 10,000 per month, but we did not even have a day off. Most of what we earned was spent on lodging and food,” he recalls. “Just 10 days into the lockdown, our employer told us that he could not pay us anymore.”



Prakash then decided to fend for himself in his own village, even if it meant learning a new skill in his late 30s. His determination paid off as both earn around the same amount every month by making bamboo items for Gulaimal-based non-government organisation (NGO) Manmohan Kala Samiti (MKS). “We work for eight hours daily and get a good price for our work,” says Prakash, who saves a large part of his income and manages to send his children to school.


Seeds of change

The NGO was established under the National Rural Livelihood Mission (NRLM) and operates under SFURTI (Scheme of Fund for Regeneration of Traditional Industries) of the Ministry of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises, which assists traditional industries such as khadi, coir, handloom and handicrafts by providing grants of up to Rs 5 crore. The NGO set up operations in the district in 2020 under the nodal agency Council for Handicrafts Development Corporations. A Bamboo Craft Centre was established, with a 90% Central grant under SFURTI and the remaining investment from MKS.


Of the 150 families employed by the NGO in Gulaimal, about 60 work directly at the bamboo centre. The rest make the products at their homes. Most of them are Korku tribals. The centre purchases the bamboo planted by village farmers at a price equal to the minimum support price. Until the establishment of the centre, around 40% (1,100 people) of the village population used to migrate for work.

Pradeep Awase (27), a resident managing the bamboo art work under MKS, used to go to Pune. “I worked at a local furniture firm. Most of what I earned was spent there and despite having worked with the employer for a long time, I was deserted when the pandemic struck. I was forced to walk back home. The employer did not even bother to arrange a transport facility for me,” he says.  

Pradeep joined MKS and honed his management skills in the last three years. He now imparts training to new artisans and organises local craft exhibitions with the help of MKS.

According to a survey conducted by the NGO, migration has reduced by half since its inception, as the locals earn a monthly salary of Rs 6,000 to 8,000 at the centre. However, not all villagers are into bamboo crafts. Due to the surge in bamboo-related work, other trades and businesses have  increased in the village, thereby providing a source of employment to many .


To increase their income further, locals have started planting native bamboo varieties such as Katanga (Bambusa Arundinacea) and Deshi (Dendrocalamus Strictus) on the margins of their fields under the guidance of MKS. This will reduce the need to get bamboo from other villages. When needed, the MKS also provides them with bamboo seedlings.


Furniture, toys, home decor, reception, office and coffee house items are produced at the centre and sent to NRLM sales centres. They are also exported. MKS director Mohan Rokade tells 101Reporters that the NGO expanded to accommodate more artisans in 2021 and that its annual income has soared to above Rs 50 lakh.


“Bamboo craft has been a part of the village culture for generations. But people were making only specific items such as mats and baskets that were useful to the village community. When the availability of bamboo reduced, people migrated in search of employment. After the NGO formation, we distributed bamboo seedlings to the locals at a minimal cost, leading to a surge in bamboo production,” Rokade says.


Earlier, farmers sold their bamboo to the forest department or in the market. Raju Vaskale, a farmer from Dhimaria, located four km from Gulaimal, says he now gets money immediately after selling bamboo unlike in the case of the forest department. "We do not have to bear transportation costs as the centre collects bamboo from our fields. Katanga bamboo is priced at Rs 80 in the market, Deshi at Rs 100 and Assamese bamboo at Rs 220. We get the same price from the centre," he says.


Prakash has also planted bamboo saplings on his two-and-a-half acre plot. He plans to sell it to MKS. Apart from Gulaimal, bamboo clusters are functional under SFURTI at Hoshangabad, Betul, Chhindwara, Balaghat, Seoni, Ratlam and Burhanpur. Last year, Harda district was included in the cluster.




Life gets better

When she migrated to Beed, Sangeeta used to leave her five children in the custody of their grandmother Lalitabai. This affected their studies as the older children would often be occupied with taking care of their younger siblings and miss out on school.


“I at least had my mother-in-law to help out, but the mothers with newborns and those with children under five years of age had to take them along when they migrated. Life as a farm labourer is difficult. Sometimes, we have to survive on just one meal. So, even the babies could not be fed since the lactating mothers barely ate,” highlights Sangeeta.


New mothers who were forced to quit work due to these challenges are now joining the NGO as it has a secure campus for children with proper facilities and caretakers. The centre is spread over five acres of land, where a factory has been built on an acre.


“Since new and expectant mothers can stay in the village and make bamboo crafts, they have also registered at local anganwadis, thus bringing them under the government's nutritional programmes. They get fortified milk powder and nutrition-rich food from anganwadis,” she adds.  

Young women who used to be either married off right after school or were forced to join their parents as farm labourers are now enrolling in colleges to find well-paying jobs. “Working on the field with my parents was tiresome. We did not even have enough to fulfil our basic needs, so college was a distant dream. But now I work with the NGO, while pursuing my post graduation in commerce from an open university,” says Usha Barole.

Madhuri Awase and Aarti Barme earn Rs 7,000 each and are able to keep some money aside for their children’s education. Even specially-abled people have got a chance to earn through the NGO.

The products such as table lamps, clocks and showpieces produced by the company were showcased in the Parliament House, New Delhi, and exhibited at the Dubai Expo alongside products from 190 countries last year. Artisans add that they were not skilled at anything and were looked down upon, but they enjoy a newfound respect in their communities and feel proud of the work they do when their handcrafted products are admired at both local markets and international exhibitions.


"Once awareness about the sustainability of bamboo products versus plastic pollution increases, and the new electricity grid comes into operation, I think we will be able to expand operations and hire more people," says Rokade.


(Mohammad Asif Siddiqui is a Madhya Pradesh-based freelance journalist and a member of 101Reporters, a pan-India network of grassroots reporters.)


Article Source : 101Reporters



Tuesday, November 28, 2023

Narrative Magic Unleashed: Sen Sharma's 'Chase' Dominates Discussions at Kolkata Film Fest

 


Kolkata, a city steeped in history and culture, has found its essence artfully woven into the narratives of filmmaker Debasish Sen Sharma. His latest creation, "Chase," showcased at an International Short Film Festival in the heart of the city, has emerged as a captivating puzzle, enthralling audiences and sparking discussions.


The festival, spanning three days, provided a platform for both local and foreign filmmakers to showcase their creations. Among the diverse array of films, "Chase" stood out, with its exceptional storytelling leaving viewers glued to their seats. 


As the Director said "I unveil the essence of Kolkata—the tale of a city where magic still exists. Kolkata, where people continue to extend a helping hand, creating a narrative of unity and kindness." Sen Sharma's narrative prowess, skillfully intertwining tales of Kolkata and its inhabitants, contributed to a rich tapestry of both the city and its people.


Mir Asraf Ali and Sayan Ghosh deliver impeccable performances in the film, elevating it to new heights with their outstanding acting skills. Their on-screen chemistry and dedication contribute significantly to the overall success of the movie.


He added "We made a movie during the tough times of the coronavirus. It was hard to manage time and deal with restrictions. The film was shot in the USA and Kolkata. I was in charge of shooting in the USA part as well"





Sen Sharma, reflecting on the success of the festival, emphasized the challenges faced in the realm of short films—struggles for funding and a constant uphill battle. Despite these obstacles, the event witnessed an impressive turnout, attracting not only film enthusiasts but also filmmakers, prominent personalities, and students. It transformed into a vibrant hub for those passionate about the art of short filmmaking.


In a poignant gesture, the festival paid tribute to the legendary filmmaker Mrinal Sen, underscoring the importance of recognising and honouring the pioneers in the field. Sen Sharma, optimistic about the future, expressed a collective sentiment: the need for collaboration to propel the world of short films forward.


The overall resonance of the festival underscore the potential and significance of short films. Sen Sharma's call to action, urging collaboration and an expansion of the scope for short films, resonates as a rallying cry for a community dedicated to navigating the intricate landscape of storytelling in its most concise form.

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