Kolkata's Love for Football Echoes in Maidaan Movie's Homage to Legends

Actor Rudranil Ghosh, director Amit Sharma, and producer Boney Kapoor at a press conference for upcoming film ‘Maidan’ in kolkata

In a heartwarming ode to the indomitable spirit of Coach Syed Abdul Rahim and the illustrious football legends he nurtured, the Maidaan team recently descended upon Kolkata, stirring up a frenzy of excitement and nostalgia. As the countdown to the film's release intensifies, the city's fervor for football reaches new heights, echoing the resounding legacy of Rahim Saab.

Led by director Amit Sharma and producers Boney Kapoor and Arunava Joy Sengupta, alongside the charismatic presence of Bengali actor Rudranil, the Maidaan ensemble unveiled exclusive behind-the-scenes footage, captivating audiences with glimpses into the extraordinary journey of Rahim Saab and his proteges. From the bustling streets to the hallowed grounds, Kolkata reverberates with the echoes of Rahim Saab's vision, igniting a wave of anticipation for the cinematic masterpiece.

Rahim Saab's storied legacy, rooted in the vibrant tapestry of Kolkata's football culture, serves as the beating heart of Maidaan's narrative. It was here, amidst the fervent energy of the city, that Rahim Saab unearthed gems like PK Banerjee, Chuni Goswami, and Pradyut Barman, laying the cornerstone for India's football revolution. With each step taken on Kolkata's sacred soil, the Maidaan team pays homage not only to Rahim Saab's enduring impact but also to the city's integral role in shaping football history.

The tribute extended beyond cinematic realms, as the makers arranged a special screening for revered football stalwarts like Arun Ghosh, D.M.K Afzal, and the esteemed family members of Chuni Goswami, PK Banerjee, and more. Seeking their blessings before the film's much-anticipated release, the gesture exemplified the deep reverence and gratitude towards those who paved the path for Indian football's ascent.

The dynamic portrayal of Coach Syed Abdul Rahim by Ajay Devgn, Maidaan promises to be a poignant celebration of resilience, passion, and the triumph of the human spirit. With a stellar ensemble cast including Priyamani, Gajraj Rao, and Rudranil Ghosh, the stage is set for an unforgettable cinematic experience.

Screenplay and dialogues penned by Saiwyn Quadras and Ritesh Shah respectively, Maidaan's soul-stirring soundtrack, composed by AR Rahman and featuring lyrics by Manoj Muntashir Shukla, adds an extra layer of depth to the narrative.

As the film gears up for a worldwide theatrical release this Eid on April 10, 2024, audiences can brace themselves for a cinematic spectacle that transcends boundaries and captures the essence of football's timeless allure.

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.

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.

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

Once 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.

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.