Anticipation mounts as collectors and bidders gear up for the third edition of Todywalla Auctions, offering ancient relics and artefacts dating back to as old as 11th century AD. Founded in 1964, the House of Todywallas is a numismatic avant-garde-emerging as India’s first Archaeological Survey of India (ASI)-licensed auction house, helming the trade of rare Indian coins. Foraying into classical Indian paintings, sculptures and silver works -- the auctioneers have curated a diverse collection spanning the Deccani, British and Mughal eras along with chased, gilded and engraved relics in Indian silver. Additionally, they have sourced sculptures in stone, metal and wood from across the globe. Some of the exotic items up for bidding are the face-off between Krishna and Rukma, A ‘sati’ scene, silver paan daan, Sita in Ravana’s palace garden, two Jain illuminated folios, the interiors of the Taj Mahal, bronze sculptures of Druga and Vishnu, a five-piece silver tea set and more. Floor bidding opens todayYoung collector Supriya Lahoti is set to bid telephonically as the floor opens today at Rendezvous, Taj Mahal Palace in Colaba. “With a display of over 160 lots, I'm particularly curious to know the top bid for the Mughal era painting named ‘Ladies on a palace terrace celebrate Diwali’ which is valued between 15 to 25 lakh,” Lahoti tells Midday. The imperial artwork is a noteworthy highlight showcasing Diwali being celebrated by a woman and her attendants against the backdrop of fireworks, informs Malcolm Todywalla -- a pioneer in the field of Indian Numismatics. It is attributed to the Mughal painter Muhammad Afzal about whom little is known to date. Adding to the excitement, a counterpart of this painting resides in the Freer Gallery of Art at The Smithsonian's National Museum of Asian Art in Washington DC.The next item that piques the bidder’s interest is the 11th-century sculpture of Pala Vishnu Stele which exists in immaculate condition -- beholding conch shells and discs in his lower hands, mace and lotus flowers in his upper hands. “A masterpiece of this calibre may invite an obscene sum. We're starting the bidding at 30 lakh, but with the right bidder, it could soar well beyond that, possibly reaching the million mark," opines Anil Keshav who has curated artworks for the upcoming auction. Chetan Shah (name anonymised at request), a Mumbai-based collector is eyeing the silver work of 'mukhwas' container crafted by Oomersi Mawji from Bhuj in Kutch (circa 1880). Designed like a qual with wings stretched out -- the exotic piece contains openings on the bird's back along with four more openings on the base meant to keep ‘trinkets’ , informs Keshav. Shah is also drawn to the three oval miniature portraits of courtly ladies and musicians which are priced in the range of 2.5 - 3.5 lakh. In the 18th and 19th centuries, Mughal miniature portraits were common, especially the ones depicting Mughal Emperor's profiles and their consorts like Jodha and Akbar, informs Malcolm. It was a Darbar scene that caught this writer’s attention. Within a vast palace complex above a pool of crystal-clear water -- 3 noblemen sit for a discussion. They are accompanied by two retainers with one waving a ceremonial morchal, all dressed in pure white cotton. What makes it special is the bird’s eye of the entire kingdom. The range of this painting is estimated between 8-12 lakh. Also Read: AI skills are a must for better career opportunities; here's why The art of collectingSpeaking about her experience with collectibles, she shares that while bidding, there are items you truly desire and others you bid on hoping for luck. “For the ones you're deeply interested in, there's a sense of anxiety about whether you'll surpass your preset limit or secure it within your budget -- which makes the session incredibly suspenseful and intense.” Lahoti recalls that she has been bidding at the Todywalla Auctions since their first edition. “My first collection was actually from Toddywalla's. It was a painting, a Dhanvantri, from their inaugural auction. I found something very appealing about that particular painting, and I was determined to acquire it.” Working as a consultant with the Indian Ministry of Culture, she has been collecting relics for the past four years. Growing up in a family deeply rooted in Indian arts, Lahoti has been surrounded by art from a very young age. Her parents are the founders of the Kalakriti Art Gallery in Hyderabad and have their own collection of relics, paintings and ancient Indian artworks. On the other hand, for an extensive period, Shah and his wife have journeyed across the globe, encountering relics reminiscent of those found in India. They've observed that each country possesses its unique heritage, culture and antique treasures. Their interest extends beyond Indian antiquities as they also avidly collect artefacts from other regions, including Southeast Asia. Shah adds that while visiting Southeast Asia, one learns that Buddhism holds significant cultural prominence. Consequently, the region boasts a plethora of stone and bronze sculptures akin to those found in Todywalla's collection of Indian statues and sculptures. Also Read: Books, games and costumes: Why this book club in BKC is a hotspot for Mumbai’s executives and Gen-Z Authenticating relicsMalcolm shares that while curating artworks for the auction, his team keeps in mind three factors:A. it has to be genuineB. it has to be of standard quality C. it must be in good condition To ensure authenticity, Malcolm and his team have assembled a panel of experts, each with specialised knowledge in various areas such as coins, paintings and calligraphy. These experts include academics, collectors and material researchers, all of whom possess extensive experience spanning several decades in the study of Indian antiques and relics. “Once the authenticity of an object is established, we begin our research and collate information for the same. This involves photographing the item, compiling a catalogue, seeking details of the makers and then returning it to the dealer. Before finalising the catalogue, we analyse the items as per standards set by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI).” This process is time-consuming and requires significant effort as the team meticulously researches each object based on its authenticity, quality, condition and other relevant factors, adds Malcolm. Lahoti concludes by sharing why auctions are an ideal starting point for collectors:1. There's transparency, as auction prices are public and open to all bidders, reducing the risk of being misled. 2. Unlike buying from a dealer, where the price estimate could be subjective, auction prices are determined by multiple bidders, providing a more reliable valuation. 3. Additionally, auction houses conduct due diligence, offering further assurance, particularly beneficial for inexperienced buyers like myself.Also Read: Mumbai housing dilemma: To buy or rent? Expert advice inside
16 April,2024 10:27 AM IST | Mumbai | Ainie Rizvi
Be it to draft emails or generate images, the advent of Artificial Intelligence or AI has undoubtedly simplified most of our daily tasks. Today, one can make a presentation using AI, edit pictures using AI-enabled applications, or even create music with the help of AI tools. Although the fear of job losses due to AI is still ripe, experts suggest joining hands with the technology to improve work efficiency and productivity. Most companies today encourage employees to develop AI skills and use them to their best potential. This has made it necessary for employees – freshers and experienced, to understand AI and equip themselves with relevant AI skills. “Companies across sectors are adopting AI rapidly. Further, AI is transforming industries at a fast pace. It is only natural for employers to expect employees to understand, collaborate with, and benefit from AI tools,” says Sonia Kutty, senior vice president of people and Culture at Quest Global, an engineering services firm. Adding to this, Ajay Yadav, co-founder of Simplified, an AI content creation startup, says, “Familiarity with AI is a big consideration for us in today’s day and age. AI is on the path of being an integral part of our lives. We are already starting to live in an AI-driven world. When hiring new employees, I do expect applicants to possess AI skills. It shows if they are ready to accept the new technology.” Also Read: Artificial intelligence can assist, not replace us in treating cardiovascular diseases: Cardiologists “As per the November 2023 report by the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology, only 26 per cent of organisations in India are fully prepared for AI, and 95 per cent of organisations have a well-defined AI strategy. The report is a positive sign for the young generation of the country. With the Indian government and national and international private organisations investing money into the development and upkeep of the AI infrastructure, India is on the path of becoming one of the world leaders in the area,” shares Vinay Kumar, associate professor at Thapar School of Liberal Arts and Sciences, Thapar Institute of Engineering and Technology. To understand the relevance of AI skills in one’s career and how employees and freshers can develop these skills, Mid-day.com conversed with industry experts and educators who share tips on how to stay relevant in the AI-driven world. What are the top skills employers look for in applicants? Saras Malik, chief people officer, Artemis Hospital, Gurugram states, ‘When considering job applicants, the top five skills, including AI and technological proficiency, that are prioritised are adaptability, critical thinking, communication, technical expertise, and creativity.” Adaptability is necessary in the ever-evolving landscape of technology. Critical thinking ensures problem-solving abilities, necessary for innovation. Effective communication fosters collaboration and clarity in conveying complex ideas. Technical expertise, especially in AI and relevant technologies, is essential in many industries today. Lastly, creativity drives innovation and the ability to think innovatively, tackling new challenges and staying ahead in competitive markets. These skills together allow people to thrive in dynamic work environments and contribute meaningfully to their teams and organisations. Commenting on the relevance of AI skills, Malik stresses, “Possessing AI skills is increasingly important for job applicants due to the growing integration of AI technologies across various industries. AI skills enable individuals to leverage data-driven insights, automate processes, enhance decision-making, and develop innovative solutions. As AI continues to shape the future of work, job roles are evolving to require proficiency in AI tools, algorithms, and techniques. Whether in software development, marketing, finance, healthcare, or other fields, understanding AI fundamentals allows applicants to remain competitive, adapt to industry trends, and contribute effectively to their organisation's success in the digital age.” Also Read: How women in artificial intelligence are breaking stereotypes Will AI lead to loss of jobs? Kumar states, “Since AI systems can perform routine and mundane jobs with high accuracy and efficiency, they can pose a threat to the jobs. However, if employees keep up with their skills and learn new technological avenues, it will be easier to be relevant and employable in the challenging future.” Kutty further elaborates, “While some jobs will be automated, new opportunities will emerge. The key is to prepare for this change by developing adaptability, and critical thinking skills, and working effectively with AI technologies. New job roles focusing on developing, maintaining, and managing AI systems have already emerged. This includes data scientists, AI ethicists, and specialists in human-AI collaboration. AI can accelerate innovation across various industries, leading to the creation of new products, services, and entire industries, fostering new job markets.” Sharing his thoughts, Yadav states, “The only thing AI will put at risk is anything that isn’t ready to compete with the advancements. We are moving away from ‘who does the job’ to ‘getting the job done’. If someone possesses a range of AI skills, that person may replace a person lacking AI skills. So no, I don’t believe that AI will replace jobs, but rather those unwilling to view this as an opportunity.” How to develop AI skills? The thought of developing or learning AI skills can be overwhelming. Kutty recommends doing the following: 1. Start with the basics. Explore specific areas of interest, and continuously practice and learn. 2. Make use of online courses, listen to podcasts and webinars and stay up-to-date by reading industry publications. 3. Participate in competitions like hackathons and ideathons. 4. Make use of platforms like GitHub to contribute to open-source AI projects. This allows you to learn from experienced developers and build your portfolio. 5. You can create personal AI projects to enhance your understanding and showcase your skills to potential employers. 6. Connect with people working in the AI field through online communities, meetups, or conferences. 7. The field of AI is constantly evolving. Stay updated with the latest advancements and keep learning new skills to remain competitive in the job market. How can employees apply AI skills in their daily tasks?According to Malik, employees can maximise the benefits of AI to improve their work efficiency by integrating AI-powered tools and techniques into their workflow. This involves automating repetitive tasks to free up time for more strategic work, leveraging AI algorithms for data analysis to extract valuable insights, and utilising personalised recommendation systems to access relevant resources efficiently. Furthermore, he adds, “AI-driven natural language processing tools can enhance communication and understanding, while predictive analytics allow proactive decision-making based on future trends. Virtual assistants and chatbots powered by AI streamline communication and customer service, further enhancing productivity.” “Additionally, continuous learning through AI-powered platforms allows employees to update their skills and stay updated on emerging technologies and industry trends, fostering professional growth and adaptability. By leveraging the power of AI in these ways, employees can optimise their performance, increase productivity, and contribute more effectively to the success of their organisations.” Also Read: AI in Healthcare: How Indian apps and platforms aim to transform healthcare using technology How does this help improve career trajectory? According to Malik, “Developing AI skills can significantly elevate a person's career path by enhancing their competitiveness, versatility, and value in the job market.” AI skills are in high demand across various industries, making people proficient in AI technologies highly sought after by employers. Possessing AI skills allows employees to contribute to cutting-edge projects, drive innovation, and solve complex problems, readying them for advancement opportunities and leadership roles within their organisations. Additionally, AI skills empower employees to stay relevant in a rapidly evolving job market. As automation and AI continue to reshape industries, people with AI proficiency are better equipped to adapt to changing job requirements and emerging trends. AI skills facilitate cross-disciplinary collaboration and interdisciplinary problem-solving, allowing employees to work effectively with colleagues from diverse backgrounds and contribute to multidisciplinary projects. This enhances their professional network and opens up new opportunities for career advancement and professional growth. By developing AI skills, employees can upskill, expand their career prospects, and position themselves as valuable assets in the dynamic workforce. What factors must you keep in mind when using AI at work? One common mistake that employees working with AI make, is having a generic approach towards the AI tool. Yadav says, “One must not be generic when interacting with AI models. You need to give the AI tools specific and detailed prompts to get the best results.” Further, Kutty shares, “When using AI tools, you must also ensure the tool you use adheres to data privacy regulations and handles sensitive data securely.” What are the limitations of AI? Like any technology, AI has its limitations. Yadav points out, “The biggest limitation of AI is that it cannot do everything by itself. We’re not there yet and maybe someday we will be, but people need to work with AI and view it as a symbiotic relationship where technology and humans partner up to make the output better.” Lastly, Kumar states, “AI models work on existing data. Although cutting-edge generative AI models are capable of generating text, images, audio and videos which are non-existent, these resources do not have the capability of thinking innovatively. A second major limitation is the non-availability of data in regional languages or art forms that hampers the capabilities of these AI models. However, with the fast-paced progress in the field, researchers will create solutions in these areas too.”
16 April,2024 09:34 AM IST | Mumbai | Aakanksha AhireAhead of Coachella rumors swirled over a potential Taylor Swift appearance, she's collaborated on music with Lana Del Rey, Jack Antonoff and Ice Spice, and the Swifties thought perhaps one of those acts would invite her onstage. She didn't perform but she did show, watching rock band Bleachers - her longtime producer Jack Antonoff is the frontman from the corner of backstage and Bronx rapper Ice Spice from the VIP section. Swift and beau Travis Kelce, the NFL tight end who recently won the Super Bowl, twirled, swayed and kissed as they enjoyed the spectacle, for once, as fans. Kelce's blocking skills came in handy as the 6'5" (1.96 meters) NFL tight end did well to obscure his wildly famous girlfriend from view, as the couple enjoyed the show from stage right. The much-hyped lovebirds were seen twirling and singing along during the performance of Antonoff, who's co-written and produced a number of Swift's albums. Fan videos quickly started circulating online. Swift's appearance comes less than a week before her forthcoming album, "The Tortured Poets Department," drops April 19. The 34-year-old billionaire is currently on break from her blockbuster Eras tour and was spotted on a date night in Los Angeles Friday. Antonoff founded and has fronted Bleachers since 2014, meanwhile becoming one of the most sought-after producers in pop who has worked with superstars including Swift, Lana Del Rey and Lorde. Billie Eilish -- who joined Del Rey onstage Friday -- was spotted at Tyler, The Creator's headlining set the next day, also doing her own unscheduled performance at the festival's Do Lab, debuting three new tracks from her forthcoming album "Hit Me Hard And Soft." Olivia Rodrigo dropped in for No Doubt, with other cameos including Ke$ha and Katy Perry. Denim, big-buckle belts, airy white tops and dresses embroidered with lace rounded out the Americana theme that comes as much of pop leans country, led by none other than Beyonce whose countrifed album has caused searches for cowboy-inspired fashion to spike. 1990s-style punk and skater fashion including leather, plaid and goth-lite lace was also all the rage, in line with the alt-rock nostalgia evident onstage. Also Read: Diljit Dosanjh celebrates Guru Gobind Singh's greatness in Baisakhi song
15 April,2024 05:14 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentCoachella's first weekend boasted buzzy guest appearances, a diverse slate of Latino acts and an indie rock revival, along with the premier desert festival's barely there fashion with a heavy dose of Americana. Here's a rundown of the weekend's takeaways: Latino prideShakira, Peso Pluma, J Balvin: this year's edition of Coachella 2024 was decidedly dominated by Latin American acts hailing from a wide variety of countries and a diverse spectrum of genres. Latin representation has grown significantly in recent years at Coachella, and yet another strong showing in 2024 indicated that such bookings are becoming less an anomaly and more so the standard as Latin music continues to dominate global charts. Last year's Coachella made history as Bad Bunny became the first-ever Spanish-language headliner. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Coachella (@coachella) And this year Argentina's star producer Bizarrap surprised fans by bringing out collaborator Shakira for a rager of a performance, as Peso Pluma took the main stage with his unique blend of regional Mexican ballads mixed with Latin rap and reggaeton. Puerto Rico's Young Miko, Cuba's Cimafunk, Ecuador's Hermanos Gutierrez, and a smattering of artists from Mexico including Son Rompe Pera, Carin Leon and Girl Ultra were among the lengthy list of Latino performers representing at the festival. And Balvin brought out Will Smith, who wore dark glasses and a suit to perform the "Men In Black" theme. Taylor Swift spotted Ahead of Coachella rumors swirled over a potential Taylor Swift appearance, she's collaborated on music with Lana Del Rey, Jack Antonoff and Ice Spice, and the Swifties thought perhaps one of those acts would invite her onstage. She didn't perform but she did show, watching rock band Bleachers - her longtime producer Jack Antonoff is the frontman from the corner of backstage and Bronx rapper Ice Spice from the VIP section. Swift and beau Travis Kelce, the NFL tight end who recently won the Super Bowl, twirled, swayed and kissed as they enjoyed the spectacle, for once, as fans. Next weekend she could always hop onstage to promote her album that drops on April 19, when Coachella will repeat more or less the same line-up. And while she was the most-discussed, Swift was far from the only celeb sighting at Coachella, a playground for the rich and famous. Billie Eilish -- who joined Del Rey onstage Friday -- was spotted at Tyler, The Creator's headlining set the next day, also doing her own unscheduled performance at the festival's Do Lab, debuting three new tracks from her forthcoming album "Hit Me Hard And Soft." Olivia Rodrigo dropped in for No Doubt, with other cameos including Ke$ha and Katy Perry. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Coachella (@coachella) 88rising showcase The music and media company 88rising, which gained prominence as a platform and label geared primarily at promoting Asian American artists, held a special showcase for the second time, featuring performances from J-pop groups Yoasobi, ATARASHII GAKKO! and Number_i, Japanese hip-hop artist Awich, Korean-American rapper Tiger JK, Chinese pop star Xin Lu, and Korean rapper Yoonmirae. ATARASHII GAKKO! and Yoasobi also played their own sets. This year another history-maker took the stage, albeit virtually: screaming fans turned out for Japan's famed singer Hatsune Miku - a vocaloid software voicebank whose personification is a teen with turquoise pigtails. Indie rock returns Alien memory neutraliser Smith was the keystone of the return to the 1990s, after Coachella's Saturday lineup offered a blast from the past in the form of alt-rock, recalling the roots it came from. No Doubt the group fronted by Gwen Stefani played together for the first time in 15 years, playing a lengthy show including 1990s hits including "Just a Girl" and "Don't Speak." Blur also took the stage as did Sublime, the stoner reggae rock group now fronted by Jakob Nowell, son of the band's late frontman Brad. Vampire Weekend whose hits include "Cape Cod Kwassa Kwassa" — also returned to the desert for a surprise performance, bringing none other than Paris Hilton onstage during a 15-minute honky tonk mash-up. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Coachella (@coachella) Assless chaps, rimless glasses Hilton wasn't the only one at Coachella going cowboycore: western hats and boots were all the rage along with fringe, studs, vests and even the occasional assless chaps. Denim, big-buckle belts, airy white tops and dresses embroidered with lace rounded out the Americana theme that comes as much of pop leans country, led by none other than Beyonce whose countrifed album has caused searches for cowboy-inspired fashion to spike. 1990s-style punk and skater fashion including leather, plaid and goth-lite lace was also all the rage, in line with the alt rock nostalgia evident onstage. Of course, much of the desert fashion at Coachella involved wearing as little as possible -- sheer sheaths over bikinis and mesh over nipple covers were common, as were string thongs peeking out from low-rise jeans in a vision straight out of Y2K. The throwback to the early 2000s also applied to eyewear: Coachella attendees watched the world through rose-colored glasses of the wrap-around, rectangular and rimless varieties. Also Read: Met Gala 2024: What to expect from fashion's biggest night
15 April,2024 04:39 PM IST | Mumbai | AFPPunjabi superstar Diljit Dosanjh celebrated Baisakhi by releasing a devotional song, 'Baaj Te Ghoda', recalling the consecration of the Khalsa Panth by Guru Gobind Singhji on this day in 1699. The song references the popular image of the Tenth Guru riding a white stallion with a hawk on his right hand. The actor-singer took to his Instagram on Saturday to share a video of himself paying a visit to the Gurudwara. In the video, the superstar can be seen dressed in a white kurta and pajamas, with a ceremonial yellow turban to complete the look. The video conveys the spiritual ambiance of the Gurudwara with many people offering their prayers, and singers singing to the tune of the harmonium. Diljit sat in silence with his eyes closed. In the caption, Diljit shares the refrain of the song penned by the celebrated young Punjabi poet, Harmanjeet Singh. It reads: "That is the time when the real Baisakhi happens when the Dhur (Servant of the Lord) arises from within. To attain the sight of the hawk and the horse millions of rishi-munis would be prepared to sacrifice their lives." Diljit signed off with: "Millions of congratulations to all the friends on the occasion of Baisakhi." The popular actor-singer has been riding high on success. Not long ago, he surprised his fans with his performance alongside the pop star Ed Sheeran at the latter’s Mumbai concert, and now his recent streaming movie 'Amar Singh Chamkila' has been getting rave reviews from the audience and critics alike. In the film, Diljit essays the titular role of the highest-selling Punjabi artiste of all time, who was murdered along with his wife Amarjot Kaur by assailants for singing allegedly vulgar songs. 'Amar Singh Chamkila' has been directed by Imtiaz Ali and also stars Parineeti Chopra opposite Diljit. Also Read: Beer bottle chaas to Piyush: Try these 9 refreshing summer drinks in Mumbai This story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed, agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, reliability and data of the text. Mid-day management/mid-day.com reserves the sole right to alter, delete or remove (without notice) the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever
13 April,2024 05:04 PM IST | Mumbai | IANSGrammy-nominated Aussie DJ and platinum recording producer FISHER (real name Paul Fisher), enthralled a legion of Indian fans at his first-ever standalone performance produced by Sunburn on Friday. The Australian DJ's electrifying showcase at Dome NSCI SVP Stadium in Mumbai last night was a resounding success, leaving a captivated over 9,000 strong attendees wanting more. The tech house star delivered a night of pure energy and artistic brilliance, solidifying his position as a force to be reckoned with and his growing relevance within the Indian electronic dance market. The crowd went crazy as he entered saying, “Mumbai”. The venue buzzed with excitement as Fisher took the stage, belting out his powerful anthem hits such as ‘Losing It’, ‘Take It Off’, ‘Stop It’, ‘Crowd Control’ and ‘Freaks’ spanning across two-hour after-hours set with support from local gems such as Candice Redding, REALMM, AXL Stace, Art Storm, Afterall and Almost Human. Fisher's musical prowess and creative vision shone through, leaving the audience happy. FISHER states, “India! Thank you for being absolutely amazing and I look forward to seeing my Indian fans soon. I enjoyed my time in Mumbai. I watched the cricket match in the stadium, explored the shopping streets of Colaba, relished some masala chai and vada pav at Marine Drive, and caught the sunset at Gateway Of India’’ Karan Singh, CEO, Sunburn states, “The event was a super success and we managed to pull off a one-of-its-kind showcase with a hotly anticipated house and techno global music act, setting a new precedent within the live event dance music industry of India.” Known for his wild sense of humour and energetic DJing style, the Australian has become quite popular over the years. Sending him into the spotlight, his breakout track ‘Losing It’ earned him his first Grammy nomination. The track has now amassed well over half a billion streams. In 2024, he continues to captivate audiences, bringing his signature parties, groundbreaking shows and contagious energy to the world. In 2023, FISHER released multiple hit records including ‘Yeah The Girls’ and ‘Take It Off’; the latter being the mega dance hit with AATIG which achieved placement on BBC Radio 1 ‘B List’ Playlist and over 50 million streams on Spotify. FISHER’s following single ‘Atmosphere’ ft. Kita Alexander was one of the dance anthems of the summer after its explosion on TikTok - After his show stealing performance at Coachella, alongside Chris Lake, the record, combining soaring synths and irresistibly catchy lead vocals over a pulsating uptempo groove, ‘Atmosphere’ amassed 3 million Spotify streams in its first week alone. FISHER is already on a roll in 2024 with a weekly Hi Ibiza residency, a TAO Vegas residency and major headline appearances set for Cardiff, London, New York, San Francisco and Mumbai to name a few. He is also set to debut his iconic Under Construction Show with Chris Lake at Ultra Miami, and Parklife Manchester. FISHER's second installment of his curated festival TRIIP in Malta will take place in June, with a huge lineup featuring, Paco Osuna, Solardo and many more. The Australian DJ is also set to bring his very own OUT 2 LUNCH Festival to his hometown of Gold Coast, Australia selling out 30,000 tickets in the first day. When it comes to FISHER there are no limits.
13 April,2024 04:38 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentSinger Shakira gave a surprise performance as she joined Bizarrap at Coachella and also announced her tour for late 2024. Shakira joined Bizarrap about half an hour into his set, suddenly appearing behind him, wearing a fiery red-orange dress and giant aviator sunglasses, on an elevated platform behind him, reports variety.com. The music paused for a moment as she spoke with the audience in Spanish and English, announcing their forthcoming tour and revealing the meaning behind the message she had teased earlier in the day, "La loba se viene" (the wolf is coming). The message appeared on the screen behind the stage, and as she announced the tour, it was revealed as the "Las Mujeres Ya No Lloran World Tour," reflecting the name of her new album. "Finally, we’re going on tour - starting here, in November!” she said. “Starting here, this November, in this city! Can’t wait!” Coachella will continue through Friday night with a final performance from headlining artist Lana Del Rey. The weekend will continue with Saturday headliner Tyler, the Creator, and a final closing set with Doja Cat on Sunday. Also Read: Beer bottle chaas to Piyush: Try these 9 refreshing summer drinks in Mumbai This story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed, agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, reliability and data of the text. Mid-day management/mid-day.com reserves the sole right to alter, delete or remove (without notice) the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever
13 April,2024 12:01 PM IST | Mumbai | IANS
If you were at the Mahindra Blues Festival 2024 in February, then you definitely witnessed livewire American singer and saxophonist Vanessa Collier showcasing her best on the Soulstrat Saloon stage on the first day. Belting out her songs like ‘Bloodhound’ and ‘Two Parts Sugar, One Part Lime’ among others, it was nothing short of a party for 90 minutes. Collier, who loves to bring high-energy and passionate performances full of her saxophone and fluid songwriting and storytelling mesmerised the audience as she owned every minute on the stage. It was visible as they grooved to her music, some being introduced to it earlier, others listening to it for the first time, yet high on her energy and music. Having previously performed in the US, South America and Europe, it was the first time she was coming to India, but it felt like she connected with the audience almost immediately. In the process, she has now made a fanbase in India forever with her powerful vocals and music. Incidentally, it also happened to be the first-time that the festival had an all-women lineup, as more and more festivals try to adopt the move, this one showcased blues music in India like never before. In the past, the festival has seen the likes of Buddy Guy and Taj Mahal among others who have taken to the stage. However, this year had a star-studded lineup including India’s very own Tipriti Kharbangar and Chicago Hall of Fame singer Sheryl Youngblood, among others. Collier, who loved every part of being on the stage, shared a natural camaraderie with the other women powerhouses on and off the stage. Finding blues music with a saxophoneSo, how does it feel to be a part of an all-women lineup? “I have been performing on my own since 2014 and this is a remarkable thing because it doesn’t even happen in the US and hasn’t happened since the Lilith Fair. At most festivals, it is just one woman. It is really amazing to come and this whole lineup being women is such a powerful statement for the scene moving forward,” shares Collier, who speaks to this writer a day before the festival in Mumbai for an exclusive chat. At the festival, she was joined by Laura Chavez on guitar, Scot Sutherland on bass, Byron Cage on drums and vocal. While the American has been performing on her own only since the last decade, she has been a saxophonist for longer and close to two decades. Over time, she has seen a lot of change in Blues music and has been instrumental in at least one aspect if not more. She shares, “It is expanding to include more things. There are traditional Blues people who want to keep it the same way it is. I think it is a beautiful thing to protect the lineage and heritage, but the Blues sparked so many other different things. So, I think you have to include all the other people that want to be expanding it a little bit more. I usually play saxophone music, which is not traditionally what you expect in Blues music because it is all about guitar.” Maybe it was meant to be for Collier, who is an absolute ball of energy on stage because she was attracted to the wind instrument after she heard someone play it on a TV show and begged her mother to get her one. “I literally begged my mom for six months,” shares Collier, laughing while narrating, “before she finally said, ‘fine, we’ll rent one’. I had quit(learning) the piano very quickly and she could have been like, ‘yeah, she’ll toss it away’ but I am very grateful that she gave it a shot and I love playing the instrument.” It paid off because over the years, she has now been nominated for several Blues Music Awards, given by the Blues Foundation, a not-for-profit organisation set up to foster the heritage of blues music; she has won 'Instrumental - Horn' in 2019 and 2020 too. It is only a few of the many accolades that she has won over the years, others include those for her songwriting. Being a woman in blues music may change thisNow that she has mastered the art and continues to play, beyond having a music festival with an all-women lineup, even the number of women playing and singing blues music has been on the rise, but Collier believes that has been happening since some time now. She traces, “The community has been growing since the likes of Sister Rosetta Tharpe, Bonnie Raitt and that lineage and is being passed down. I think more women are willing to be up here with the guys. I do think it is predominantly a male genre but there are definitely more women in it than before.” Sharing the stage with some of the best women in the scene, the American is probably the youngest but believes the stage is equal. “I think everybody can learn from everybody. I am always eager to learn things from whoever I can around me. People who have been on stage for 20-30 years have a certain kind of refinement and it is always great to learn. And us all being women, we have a different but also similar experience of going through the music industry, which can be very sexist,” shares Collier, who was seen busy enjoying some laughs with the other performers. Together they looked like a bunch of friends not only celebrating their sisterhood but also music.However, she highlights that sexism prevails in more ways than one not only in other sub-cultures of music but also the blues. Taking the positive out of it, she says it only motivates female singers and musicians to bring out their best in every show. She shares, “There is this double standard in the music industry that being a woman you have to be twice as good and cannot have an off day, you can’t look a mess, you are just given a shorter leash. It pushes us to bring out everything to every show.” This, she says, often leads to women being the stand outs on festival lineups. “There are also great things happening to women, and it is kind of time for us to take charge,” she adds. Leading from the front among the younger musicians not only in the music but to talk about sexism in the industry, Collier has had the opportunity to travel the world with some great musicians and perform with them, and India was only the latest pitstop. “I have had many great opportunities. I came out of my last year of college, and I had the opportunity to tour with Joe Lewis Walker and he took me to Turkey for a month and that was one of my first experiences out of the country. I then had the opportunity to go to Europe and nowIndia because I never knew I would get here.” Just like learning from musicians around her, the American powerhouse says she likes to soak up the culture of the place she is performing in. She shares, “I realise how many languages I want to learn every time I travel.”Collier has released several albums over the years including Heart Soul & Saxophone (2014), Meeting My Shadow (2017), Honey Up (2018) and Heart on the Line (2020). Even as she tours the world, Collier is currently busy working on songs for a new record. “I am hopefully planning to release it in September. I am still writing it and trying to formulate how it is going to be. People can always accept a lot of storytelling from me and a lot of it is from my personal life and stories of how I grew up and true to the tradition and that is what I am aiming for every time,” she concludes.
13 April,2024 10:30 AM IST | Mumbai | Nascimento PintoA light summer breeze blows past on a hot April morning, as this writer enters the gates of St Xavier's High School in Fort, a stone’s throw away from Metro Cinema and Furtado’s Music shop. It's as if the breeze prods Mumbaikars along towards the gates of the school to get to know the history within its walls. The stories are hard to ignore; especially that of the 1944 Bombay Dock explosion that rocked the city. A reminder of which is seen with the now-rusted red-hot piece of a propeller lodged on the left side of the school entrance that flew into the campus from Victoria docks. A plaque bearing the exact details of its presence takes you back to the explosion of April 14, 1944, that occurred not too far away and subsequently led to all kinds of objects flying in different directions, two of which landed in the school. While one is a piece of the propeller, the other is a larger part of a silver-coloured propeller that found its home at the school, which is the stuff for history books about the city. One is placed at the entrance, the other is hung high up on the left side of first floor, at the end of the corridor. It is only one of the many things the winding corridors boast of including an endless museum, that has been curated by Brother Antonio Navarro S.J., who was with the institution, and visibly loved nature. Also Read: 1944 Bombay Explosion: All about one of the largest explosions ever recorded The second piece of the propeller is situated in the corridor of the St Xavier's High School. Photo Courtesy: Nascimento Pinto for Mid-day This year marks 79 years since the explosion occurred in the maximum city at the Victoria docks. Popularly called the 1944 Bombay Explosion, 1994 Bombay Docks Explosion or the Victoria Docks Explosion, it is one of the biggest explosions the city has witnessed and regarded as one of the city’s worst disasters. It not only killed 1,300 people but also left 80,000 people homeless. According to historians who have spoken to mid-day in the past, the blast occurred when the freight steamer SS Fort Stikine caught fire and was left completely destroyed in two big blasts. It took three days to get the fire under control. The explosion left five lakh tonnes of debris as everything around it sunk or caught fire and sent debris flying in areas close to it and some of which landed at the school. Coincidentally, it was Ms Renee Carvalho’s father who witnessed it because he was studying in the school at that time. Carvalho, the present alumni coordinator, who has been an ex-teacher and vice-principal of the school of St Xavier's High School, tells of the event that she believes more people should know about. The St Xavier's High School was established by the Jesuits in 1869. Photo Courtesy: Nascimento Pinto for Mid-day A resident of Dhobi Talao, Carvalho says that she was not present, but her father who was an ex-Xavierite, had recollected it. While senior Carvalho was only a child at the time, very little of the story was passed on, but having spent over three decades at the school, the alumni coordinator feels proud and deeply connected with the piece of history not only at the personal level but also for the school, which boasts of some of the biggest names in the country as its alumni. The fact that she is a history buff may be the other reason.Also Watch: 1944 Bombay Explosion: Propeller at St Xavier's School in Fort Walking through such rich heritage daily must definitely give goosebumps to anybody who knows about it, like it did for us. It is also why she believes more people need to know about the piece of propeller in the school, and the story behind it. She says, “I hope students at the school take interest and know more about it as much as other Mumbaikars should know about the piece of history in this school.” Interestingly for Carvalho, it is not limited to current students because she wishes that more visits are arranged even for ex-students to come and see the institution to know about the rich heritage and legacy. While it is easier for in-house students to pay a visit, the Mumbaikar undoubtedly believes it should be open to the public too but as supervised visits so that school is never disturbed, as the teacher in her springs up, for it feels like the school is her second home as she tells us tales of its beautiful history. “The rich heritage of Mumbai must be made known to the younger generation,” she reiterates, “I don’t think enough people know about the explosion, and there needs to be an emphasis on it so that more people know about the rich heritage and culture.” “If they don’t know about the explosion, how will they know?” she asks. Also Read: How to elevate your house with cottagecore aesthetic
13 April,2024 10:18 AM IST | Mumbai | Nascimento PintoWhile the world grapples with multiple life-threatening diseases – many of which are diagnosed at a young age, this individual celebrated his 124th birthday. If proven true, the world will not only have its oldest human alive but also the only human to have surpassed the age of the oldest independently verified human ever recorded. The Peruvian government has claimed that Marcelino Abad, a local resident from the central Peruvian region of Huanuco is 124 years old, born in 1900. Currently, the Peruvian government officials are helping Abad apply to the Guinness World Records for independent verification. In a statement released by the government, it said, "Among the tranquillity of the flora and fauna of Huanuco, Marcelino Abad developed a healthy way of life and inner peace, reflected in his good health and friendly personality. This allowed him, with resilience and skill, to overcome 12 decades of life and on April 5 he just blew out 124 candles.” According to a statement issued by the pension programme that Abad is part of, his secrets to longevity include a diet rich in fruits, lamb meat, and chewing coca leaves. Further, Guinness World Records told Reuters, “We receive many applications from individuals who claim to be the oldest living person. Verifying the claim would involve official documents and other evidence being scrutinised by an expert team to prove their achievement beyond doubt." Reuters also informed that The Guinness World Records currently lists the oldest living man as a 111-year-old Briton who got the title this month after the death of a Venezuelan man who was 114. The oldest living woman is 117, while the oldest person ever verified reached 122. The centenarian who recently celebrated his 124th birthday on April 5 was born in the small town of Chaglla. According to media reports, he was living off the radar until the Peruvian government identified him in 2019, securing him a government ID and pension. Abad now resides in a home for senior citizens. For his birthday, Abad had a special birthday celebration complete with a birthday cake with a figurine in his likeness. (With inputs from agencies) Also Read: Why Mumbai pianists love playing in public spaces like hotels and malls
12 April,2024 03:13 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentMusic company DESI TRILL has unveiled ‘Mumbai Magic’ featuring Indian female singers Natania, Subhi & Shalmali, as it is a captivating tribute to the magic of India as a whole, in a mesmerising musical creation through the heart of Mumbai — its vivacity, chaos and beauty. ‘Mumbai Magic’ serves as a heartfelt homage to Mumbai's bustling metropolis, capturing the essence of the city’s pulsating energy, breathtaking beauty and kaleidoscope of experiences. The track comes alongside a visual experience - a love letter to the city of dreams through an immersive music video. The vibrant visuals paint a vivid picture of Mumbai's dynamic spirit. From the energetic hustle and bustle of the colourful streets, the city’s multifaceted charm, seamlessly blending traditional and contemporary sounds. In tandem with the release of ‘Mumbai Magic’, the company announced their inaugural project, ‘DESI TRILL presents… Brown Is Everywhere,’ scheduled for release this May and available for pre-save. The track’s stellar lineup features three Indian-born female musicians. Mumbai’s very own musical force Natania has been a genre-defying songwriter with a vast career; on the record she shows her ability to step into the limelight as an artist in her own right. Natania is joined by Subhi, whose musical journey began with melodies of Punjabi folk and classical compositions. From Mumbai to New York to LA, her artistic prowess showcases a fusion of influences that resonate globally but always return to the love for her motherland. The final artist on the line up, Shalmali Kholgade is a versatile artist and playback singer with notable hits impacting both the independent and Bollywood music scene. The singer remains a captivating and dynamic force in the industry and serves as the perfect icing on the cake to a song dedicated to her city. Natania reacts, “Mumbai Magic is a song about the adrenaline rush that Mumbai gives you and the home you always find in it. It’s about the one-of-a-kind city filled with dream chasers, traffic, passion and all heart. Growing up in Mumbai shaped me into the person I am today and I can’t wait to share that with the rest of the world." “Mumbai is for dreamers and I am one such dreamer. It’s the ‘khwaabo ka shehar’. I have seen people come to Mumbai from all walks of life trying to find themselves. The city helped me discover who I am and find my true potential. Mumbai ka magic is real!,"Subhi adds. “Mumbai Magic hits the Mumbai nerve like no other. The lyrics of the song is a true reflection of the finer details of the city - the rickshaws, the chaiwallahs, the traffic, the chaos," Shalmali concludes.
12 April,2024 01:26 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentADVERTISEMENT
