Music maestro AR Rahman is all set to enthral the audience of Malaysia with his concert. He will perform at the iconic National Stadium Bukit Jalil on July 27, 2024, read a statement from BookMyShow. The concert is being organised by Star Planet, Malaysia's premier entertainment company. Meanwhile, Rahman recently attended the 77th edition of Cannes Film Festival, where he launched the first look and teaser of his latest venture, a feature documentary titled 'Headhunting to Beatboxing'. 'Headhunting to Beatboxing', directed by Rohit Gupta and produced by AR Rahman, delves into the intriguing journey of rhythm and sound, charting music's growth throughout countries, tribes, and generations. While talking about the feature documentary, Rahman said, "Music has this transformative power to change society and to connect and bring relevance to existence. 'Headhunting to Beatboxing' is a celebration of this universal rhythm that unites humanity in its diverse expressions. We look forward to the start of its film festival journey and what better than Cannes which celebrates cinema to make the first announcement on the film" said AR Rahman, expressing his enthusiasm. From the ancient traditions of headhunting tribes to the musical renaissance in the state, the documentary promises to take audiences on an immersive and enlightening musical anthropological odyssey. Present at the launch at the Bharat Pavilion in Cannes were Academy Award winner and Padma Bhushan recipient AR Rahman, director Rohit Gupta, Executive Producer Abu Metha (Advisor to the Chief Minister, Government of Nagaland) and Executive Producer Theja Meru (Chairman TaFMA, Government of Nagaland) in addition to the other guests and dignitaries present. Abu Metha, Advisor to the Chief Minister, Government of Nagaland, shared, "The germ of the idea came up when AR Rahman visited Nagaland to be part of the legendary Hornbill Festival. We knew we had to be part of it. The film is a collaboration of many creative minds, especially the TaFMA and masterfully captured by director Rohit Gupta. The real heroes are the musicians of Nagaland, who tell stories that go back to times immemorial and their music exemplifies the ambition of our youth." "5 years in the making, the journey of this film has been a sort of metamorphosis for me. The rich and vibrant music today, transcending the scars of the past is something that truly blew me away during the making. I am excited to see audiences witness our hard work and the magic that exists in the music of Nagaland" added director Rohit Gupta. The film marks Rahman's second major foray into the realm of filmmaking as a producer, with his earlier production being 99 Songs. Its executive producers include Abu Metha, Adam J. Greig, Theja Meru, Rohit Gupta, Sheila Houlahan and Rohhit Daas. Also Read: Sikkim's 'Tara, the Lost Star' wows the audience at Cannes 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
21 May,2024 01:52 PM IST | Mumbai | IANSThe 77th Cannes International Film Festival witnessed a cinematic marvel hailing from the serene landscapes of Sikkim as the much-awaited film, 'Tara, the Lost Star', debuted at the prestigious event on May 20. This marks a historic moment for Sikkim, as its first-ever entry into the Cannes arena captivated audiences with its Himalayan charm and storytelling finesse. Directed by Samten Bhutia and co-produced by Sabitri Chettri, 'Tara, the Lost Star' epitomizes the creative synergy and cultural richness of the region. Shot against the breathtaking backdrop of Gnathang-Memenchu near Changu Lake, the film encapsulates the essence of Sikkim's natural beauty and cultural heritage. Representing the state and the film with pride and grace is actor-producer Shyama Shree Sherpa, who brought this cinematic gem to the global forefront. "I am glad to announce that it's a historic moment for all the Sikkimese and Nepali," Sherpa shared expressing her excitement as for the first time, a Sikkimese Nepali film screened on May 20th on the global stage. 'Tara, the Lost Star' boasts a talented ensemble cast including Shyama Shree Sherpa, Sushmita Bhujel, Nityam Bhattarai from Sikkim, and Kiran Dahal, Loonibha Tuladhar from Nepal. The film also features Darjeeling actor Deoraj Sherpa. Adding to its brilliance, Sikkim's own Prasant Rasaily and Pramod Karki have lent their expertise in background score and cinematography, respectively. The excitement surrounding the film's Cannes debut also reached the highest echelons of Sikkim's leadership, with Chief Minister Prem Singh Golay extending his heartfelt congratulations to the 'Tara' team. He hailed the film as "a remarkable achievement for Sikkim as it makes its debut at the prestigious Cannes International Film Festival 2024." further solidifying the state's burgeoning presence in the global cinematic landscape. The 77th edition of the Cannes Film Festival will come to a close on May 25. Also Read: Desi divas take over Cannes 2024! Meet Anasuya Sengupta & Omara Shetty of 'The Shameless' 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
21 May,2024 01:15 PM IST | Mumbai | ANIMumbai-based indie artist Vipin Mishra is known for his love for music but always having been a lover of off-roading, he decided to embark on one or probably his most challenging expeditions through the Zanskar Valley in Ladakh. While the territory is familiar, the nature of this trip brought together the best of both worlds for Mishra – music and biking. He shares, “I first got introduced to Ladakh in 1991. After that, I've been there multiple times in all sorts of ways from road trips to climbs to treks. My first experience with the Zanskar Valley was when we actually rafted down the valley. It was an expedition we had done in 2012.” After that he did go to Shingo La Pass but not any further and came back but the itch to explore the valley has always been there. So in 2022, Mishra along with his friends including actor Satyadeep Misra (fondly called Sattu) decided to ride through and capture the beauty of the region but more importantly its immersive music. The result, you ask? A magnificent documentary ‘Folkroad’, which premiered at the Red Lorry Film Festival, produced and promoted by BookMyShow, in April 2024 in Mumbai. The eight-part series is not your regular documentary style but one that explores the video log, or vlog style. This makes it extremely honest and raw, yet showcases the Zanskar Valley and the music of a region in a way that you have never seen before through the biker’s view. It not only includes the days from the planning of the trip but also those when they didn’t get anything, as it was done without contacting any musically inclined person and instead on-the-go to discover music. Imagine crashing a wedding and finding some of the most unique music and rhythms there or going to a monastery and not finding the monks to record the chants - it was completely unscripted but with the help of their local guide Dorja. Also Read: Diving into Mumbaikars’ affection for doodle art and its fusion with city pride Valley full of music With such myriad experiences, it only intrigues us to ask Mishra how his musical background helped him navigate the process beyond the equipment? “The obvious thing in which it helped was to produce the music because I knew that the music that I record at source, however beautiful, different and endearing it is, I also wanted to produce the music in a way that it becomes palatable to a whole lot of people not just in our country but across the world. In that aspect, it was all about the background and having to know how to compose and produce – was pretty much critical – and without which this documentary wouldn’t have been possible,” shares the National Award-winning composer, who has worked on films and series such as Powder (2011) and Aurangzeb (2013) to name a few. While one may wonder about the loss of originality to the music, Mishra’s approach is honest to his craft and that is visible when he plays a recording of the original recorded music to the one that he has produced, at the festival. It is simply refined - making listeners appreciate the music more. Interestingly, Mishra says being a composer helped in more than one way when he was making the documentary beyond making the sound palatable. “When you are writing the narrative and when you are editing you already know, you can hear what the score is going to be in your head. Sometimes when you write the score, you can already see what the end is going to be. So, I think that combination is absolutely great,” he adds. The documentary, Mishra believes is a beautiful way for people to discover places as these are ones that most people cannot physically go to. These are beautiful ways to get a peek into them. “Some may even want to travel from South America to Zanskar Valley to discover the place,” he shares. “For the country, it shows a very non-mainstream side. We all know what comes up on the Internet in images of India – Holi, Taj Mahal, Rajasthani folk singer and even Indian wedding. This is what gives people an opportunity to go beyond the stereotypical side. Why must you go towards it? Because it exists.” Also Read: From Thane’s Central Park to Virar’s dolphins: How standup comic Siddhartha Shetty celebrates middle-class Mumbaikars If there is one aspect of the documentary that makes it even better is that there is a very informal narration and engaging – one that is almost as if Mishra is talking to his friend, and that is what makes it easy on the ear. While the Mumbaikar has purposefully kept it like that because it comes easy with his natural voice, there is more thought behind it, he reveals. “I was very sure that I didn't want to make this documentary in the regular sense that as documentaries are perceived – they get too detailed – while I am not saying it is good or bad – that is not what I set out to do,” explains Mishra. Without making it too detailed or data oriented as that is already available on Google, the Mumbai indie artist says he wanted to make it experiential. “I wanted it to be like – What if my friend was near me and I was narrating it to him?’” It comes across when there are suddenly jokes that Mishra cracks in the middle of nowhere that make it a light-hearted watch for anybody who loves nature, music, culture and bikes too. Going off the beaten path Interestingly for the composer, whose musical entity goes by the name – Vipin Mishra Project, biking became the choice of transport because it simply maximises the fun for him. “The simple visual of the person riding through instead of going in their car and comfy cabin – makes a world of difference – and it was a motivating factor. Secondly, I love doing this and would have spent a day in the valley anyway. Maybe I would have spent an extra day at the wedding and taken pictures, but never made a documentary out of it – this gave a purpose.” A lover of bikes and particularly off-roading, which is obvious by now when one watches the documentary, Mishra says a large part of his friends’s circle is because of the biking community. He shares, “I am part of the music community and the motorcycle community. If you put out something and it is genuine, the motorcycle community comes together. When we showcased the teaser at India Bike Week 2023 in Goa, there were so many motorcyclists who knew me or didn’t, came up to me and said it was wonderful.” While it may seem like everything was sunshine in the valley, Mishra and his crew, who spent eight days on this project in the valley, had many different challenges. The batteries in the cameras dying out was the least of them, as most camerapersons have faced it more than once in their life. However, there was more. “I didn’t expect the drone to crash. You think there is a drone pilot and drone, the last thing you expect is its crashing. So for the drone to crash on the first day was quite demoralising because without aerial visuals the documentary is very myopic visually; the subject matter is still the same but the breathing time that the viewer gets is very necessary.” Luckily for them, they found good Samaritans in some other bikers on the road travelling the same route. They not only helped them by connecting their drones but even gave them the footage to complete their documentary. The monastery was where we wanted to recorded chants but when we reached there, there were only two small boys, who said the monks had gone on their leave just the previous day and coming back after 10 days. However, these can still be managed. “The biggest challenge is always the terrain and the altitude. There is nothing that challenges you more than spending days at 13,000 ft – 14,000 ft while having something to do,” he points out. Also Read: Meet this 15-year-old Mumbai sailor who is making India proud around the world The Zanskar Valley and its tribes are a whole different world compared to the city life but in the larger scheme of things, it begs to ask the question about whether the government is doing enough to give them the importance they deserve, especially with India boasting of so many tribes in different parts of the country. Mishra believes it is a question about policy. “From a music standpoint, I believe that government, corporates, CSR that should step in because I believe that the next generation of the tribes won’t be doing this. The reason why I did it is also to archive. There is no reason for the next generation to start learning the dhamang and the surna because there is no market or future for it and there will be no teachers.” While this is only the music culture, he reminds that there will be a textile, house, agrarian and water conservation culture. “They are sitting on a wealth of knowledge. It is critical to start archiving, protecting and making what they are doing sustainable. Celebrating tribal music With such a unique experience, there are definitely memorable experiences, and it was no different for Mishra, who says when they couldn’t record the chants at the monastery, it was sad. However, there was more coming. “We were close to a town called Padung and we could have made an exit onto a better road but we said no, there is an 800 year old monastery close by, the place where the Dalai Lama stayed when he was in India. We didn’t find any place to camp so we were staying at a house, and the man of the house, who happened to be a monk, came home in the evening, and we told him we wanted to record chants, as we are two days after from going to Leh.” The rest is history as they were not only able to record the chants but also experience its peacefulness. Mishra shares, “The music in the Zanskar Valley is free flowing and sporadic but at the same time, it is a beautiful set of notes, and they have some gorgeous melodies. I learnt that they phrase it differently, what notes to sustain and what gaps to give after the second hook comes back, how they count their bars and beats, and the time signatures are different.” Even as the show is about travel, biking and music, India has produced similar shows over the years that fall into this category. So, what makes Folkroad different? “I personally have seen a lot of music shows, few of them are great and most of them are set up and Folkroad is hugely different that way. Folkroad’s principle aspect was ‘you go there and have that adventure and accept the uncertainties or you may come back with stuff that is unusable’. There are motorcycles, region, format and authenticity, and the music is something I haven’t heard before. I have kept it very 80s synth wave, synth pop – fused with their music.” With Folkroad self-funded, Mishra says with some external funding, he hopes to go to Arunachal Pradesh next and spend time there with different bikes, terrain, food and music.
21 May,2024 12:53 PM IST | Mumbai | Nascimento PintoHollywood actor Scarlett Johananson has said she was "shocked", "angered," and "in disbelief" after Microsoft-backed startup OpenAI launched an Artificial Intelligence personal assistant voice that was "eerily similar" to her own voice. Johansson's statement was released hours after Sam Altman-founded tech company said it was taking down the voice it had dubbed as 'Sky.' OpenAI had last week unveiled a new version of its flagship ChatGPT chatbot, which can read text aloud to users and can receive and respond to voice commands, images and videos. Several people compared the similarities between the chatbot's tone with that of Johansson's in the 2013 film 'Her'. Directed by Spike Jonze, the movie is about a man who develops a close relationship with an advanced piece of software. The Operating System takes the persona of a female and calls herself Samantha. In the film, the Academy award nominated Scarlett Johansson is the voice of Samantha. Artificial intelligence company, OpenAI, in a blog post on Monday wrote the process in which it had chosen the voices used by the ChatGPT, stating that worked with award-winning casting and directing professionals to narrow down over 400 submissions before selecting five voices. Apart from Sky the other voices debuted by OpenAI are dubbed - Breeze, Cove, Ember and Juniper. According to US media outlet NPR, Johansson's legal team has sent OpenAI two letters asking the company how it had developed the "Sky" voice. Johansson said that nine months ago Altman had approached her proposing that she allow her voice to be licensed for the new ChatGPT voice assistant as he thought it would "comforting to people" who are uneasy with AI technology. "After much consideration and for personal reasons, I declined the offer," Johansson said in her statement shared with NPR. The actor said that just two days before the new ChatGPT was unveiled, Altman again reached out to Johansson's team, urging her to reconsider but before she and Altman could connect, the company publicly announced its new product, with a voice that she says appears to have copied her likeness. "I was shocked, angered and in disbelief that Mr. Altman would pursue a voice that sounded so eerily similar to mine that my closest friends and news outlets could not tell the difference," Johansson said. Following this, OpenAI in a statement on the company's blog said, "We believe that AI voices should not deliberately mimic a celebrity's distinctive voice". "Sky's voice is not an imitation of Scarlett Johansson but belongs to a different professional actress using her own natural speaking voice," the tech company said. The tech company founder Altman further said that it has "paused" using Sky's voice. In a statement to US media outlet NPR, Altman wrote, "We cast the voice actor behind Sky's voice before any outreach to Ms. Johansson. Out of respect for Ms. Johansson, we have paused using Sky's voice in our products. We are sorry to Ms. Johansson that we didn't communicate better," Meanwhile, OpenAI, according to a report in the Washington Post, is facing a wave of lawsuits by authors including Game of Thrones writer George RR Martin, and news organizations including the New York Times and the Chicago Tribune, which allege the company violated copyright law by using their content to train its AI models. 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.
21 May,2024 12:53 PM IST | San Francisco | ANIOnline music streaming app Spotify released a first-of-its-kind research, ‘Audio: Where Creators Come To Pause,' earlier today. The report puts the spotlight on the daily lives and challenges of India’s content creator community, and how they deal with emotions. The study, conducted with musicians, podcasters and social media content creators in New Delhi, Mumbai and Bengaluru, presents a comprehensive understanding of creators’ mental well-being. Nearly 80 percent of the respondents experience excessive stress or pressure in their work at least once every week, reveals the study. Content creator Dolly Singh remarks, "Nowadays, it’s important for creators to realise that we need time to distance ourselves from the screens, from social media and think about how much toll it’s taking on our mental health.” Key findings from the research: There are five main types of challenges that content creators deal with: Intellectual: The constant need to keep up with changing algorithms and posting frequencies builds high pressure to post content regularly.Emotional: Negative feedback and comments significantly affect creators’ self-esteem, with nearly 40 percent facing ‘fear of the future’.Physical: Almost 40 percent of creators spend more than 3 hours a day to make content, leading to exhaustion and an adverse impact on health.Social: Creators face loneliness and isolation within their circles, with nearly 65 percent of them feeling inadequately supported by the creator community.Financial: Content creation is not always financially rewarding, especially during the early stages. Creators also shared coping mechanisms and practices, including the pivotal role of consuming audio, to navigate their content creation journey. The research reveals that audio plays a key role in coping with these challenges with 50 percent of the respondents using music as a coping mechanism. Additionally, 7 out of 10 creators agree that music, podcasts audiobooks and guided meditations help them deal with stress. For actor and comedian Mallika Dua, “One of my greatest joys in life is music, it’s a big part of self-care and my way to gain inner peace. Music is like a person who is always with me in my room, making sure I never feel alone”. Indie Ingenuity: How DIY music creators thrive beyond record labels Women creators are feeling overwhelmed Female content creators are more likely to feel stressed (33 percent) than their male counterparts (20 percent). In lines with the findings of the research, celebrity chat show host and producer Sneha Menon Desai concedes, “If my reel doesn’t hit the 10,000 mark then there is a bit of anxiety in me.” A similar pattern is also seen in the creators from the age group of 30-45 years (35 percent) compared to 18-29-year-olds (24 percent). Nearly 45 percent of the respondents feel that their current coping mechanisms are ineffective and are facing a range of need gaps, including inclusive and accessible support tools like therapy and counselling, and a safe space where creators can have open conversations while being vulnerable and protecting their privacy. Vasundhara Mudgil, Head of Communications, Spotify India, said, “Content creators are part of an industry where the entry barriers are low, burnout is always just around the corner, and constant comparison with other creators is common. The Spotify study highlights some of the most relevant issues that the creator community in India faces, and the role that audio plays in supporting their overall well-being. Through this initiative, and on-ground sessions with mental health experts, we want to encourage the creator community to see audio, and Spotify, as a place where they can come to pause”. Also Read: What women in Indian hip-hop owe to rap music
20 May,2024 08:15 PM IST | Mumbai | Ainie RizviRoyal Opera House will host actor, motivational speaker, vlogger and comedian Ashish Vidyarthi as he performs ‘Sit Down Ashish’ on May 25 this weekend. Building on the success of the grand opening in April with comedian Anuvab Pal, the standup gig is a part of their new comedy series in association with Avid Learning and The Entertainment Factory. 'Sit Down Ashish' is Ashish Vidyarthi’s first ever 50+ stand-up comedy special. It is a tongue-in-cheek take on his life, from Delhi to the ‘City of Dreams’ - Mumbai, a journey which over the last 30 years has taken him across the country, doing more than 300 films across 11 languages. This show celebrates his victories andcollapses with equal candor. In a world where we take life too seriously, he loves to live the way he does, with his weight, gait, and burps...and when people say, "Sit Down Ashish," he says that's a great idea, and takes it on as the title of the show. Comedy enthusiasts will be treated to an evening of anecdotes from films, life, and dreams to a place with no age bar. The Royal Opera House Comedy Series kicked off last month with a bang, featuring the critically acclaimed Anuvab Pal with his hilarious show ‘The Nation Wants to Know.’ This series is a monthly showcase of India's top comedic talent and leading stand-up artists. Starting with English, the humour extravaganza aims to diversify by presenting performances in regional languages, adding a multilingual flavour to the comedy scene.Being India’s only surviving opera house, they recognise the importance of leveraging the stage to showcase the talents and skills of performing artists from all over while also exposing the audiences to multidisciplinary cross-genre fusions and collaborations. Interestingly, The Royal Opera House Mumbai is not new to the world of stand-up comedy. In the past, the popular Mumbai entertainment venue has hosted some of India's comedy heavyweights including Rohan Joshi, Kenny Sebastian, Aditi Mittal, Kanan Gill and Amit Tandon, just to name a few. They have also had a Marathi Standup with BhaDiPa opening their doors to regional comic audiences When: Saturday, May 25 at 7:30 pmWhere: Royal Opera House Mumbai, Charni RoadTickets: Bookmyshow.com
20 May,2024 07:58 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentMuseum of Solutions, the unique children’s museum in Mumbai, is excited to announce the second edition of the interactive 'Food and Beverage Investigator' Programme. This unique initiative aims to create awareness among children about junk food and food marketing lies. The programme takes children through an experiential learning journey to make them ‘food aware.’ Children get the opportunity to learn and practice four rules that will make them conscious of the food they eat and empower them to make better choices. The second edition will be organised on May 26, 2024, from 10:00 am to 1:00 pm at the Museum of Solutions in Lower Parel, Mumbai. The inaugural programme was attended by an enthusiastic bunch of children from schools like Dhirubai Ambani International, Ascend International, and Vibgyor. The second edition will aim to further spread the message of identifying food that is good for one's health. This initiative will be hosted by Shashank Mehta, Founder of The Whole Truth Foods, and is open to children in the age group of seven to 12 years. Also Read: NaMo to RaGa: Best dressed Indian politicians and tips to recreate their looks Abhik Bhattacherji, director of marketing, Museum of Solutions expressed his enthusiasm for the upcoming programme, and said, "We are delighted to collaborate with The Whole Truth Foods for the second edition of the 'Food and Beverage Investigator’ programme.' By combining hands-on interactive experiences with valuable nutritional insights, we aim to foster a healthier generation through education and practical engagement." Shashank Mehta, founder and CEO, The Whole Truth Foods, shared his excitement about the partnership, stating, "We think children will change the world of food for the better. And we want them to have all the knowledge they need. So we intend to teach 1000 kids, the rules of choosing clean food and telling marketing lies, over the next year. This will equip kids to be the influencers in their own homes and schools-- everyone will eat clean, and this will be led by children." Central to the Food and Beverage Investigator Programme’s curriculum is the concept of clean eating – a philosophy championed by The Whole Truth Foods that emphasises the importance of consuming whole, minimally processed foods free from artificial additives and preservatives. Children will learn how to decipher ingredient labels, identify chemicals in packaged foods, and will be given the responsibility to investigate the packaged food. Children will come out of this programme having passed the four levels and graduating as ‘Food and Beverage Investigators.’ Also Read: Love to travel? Here is a friendly guide to packing like a pro Through a combination of interactive activities, engaging discussions, and hands-on demonstrations, the Food and Beverage Investigator Programme promises to be an enlightening and enjoyable experience for children and parents alike. Only 25 seats are available for the program, so interested individuals are encouraged to register early to secure their place through the Museum’s digital platform. Tickets are priced at Rs 1,199 for one child and one parent.
18 May,2024 03:10 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentEarlier this week, King Charles III unveiled the first portrait of the monarch completed since he assumed the throne, a vivid image that depicts him in the bright red uniform of the Welsh Guards against a background of similar hues. My first reaction was “wtf”But honestly, I’m digging King Charles’ portrait. The facial expression Yeo captured is incredible. It’s weird. I love weird. pic.twitter.com/CxGWsK3yD4 — Meredith (@Mere_Constant) May 16, 2024 The larger-than-life painting by artist Jonathan Yeo captures the king with his hands clasped atop the hilt of his sword and a butterfly flitting above his right shoulder. Charles got his first look at the canvas Tuesday at Buckingham Palace. Yeo began the portrait more than a year before Charles became king, with a sitting at the then-Prince of Wales' Highgrove estate in June 2021. The last sitting took place in November 2023 at Clarence House, one of the king's residences in London. KING CHARLES: You idiot! I said make me look 'well-read'! pic.twitter.com/PTq4pOKegy — Mike Reiss (@MikeReissWriter) May 15, 2024 "When I started this project, His Majesty The King was still His Royal Highness The Prince of Wales, and much like the butterfly I've painted hovering over his shoulder, this portrait has evolved as the subject's role in our public life has transformed,' Yeo said. The portrait, which is approximately 8 1/2 by 6 1/2 feet, will be on display at the Philip Mould Gallery in London from May 16 to June 14. From the end of August, it will be displayed at Drapers' Hall across town. The portrait was commissioned to celebrate Charles' 50 years as a member of the Drapers' Company, which was set up more than 600 years ago as a trade association for wool merchants. Philanthropy came to be part of their mission and the company is now a grant-giving body. View this post on Instagram A post shared by The Royal Family (@theroyalfamily) 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.
17 May,2024 02:55 PM IST | London | AP
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 May,2024 06:00 PM IST | Mumbai | Aakanksha AhireMumbai's Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport (CSMIA) has been currently transformed into a vibrant hub of excitement and luxury as it welcomes travellers to indulge in an extraordinary experience with the Summer Carnival from April 22. Embracing the theme of ‘Oceanic Escape’, this grand 70-day-long extravaganza extends until July 10, promising an unforgettable journey filled with delightful activities. Exclusive offers and irresistible discounts await across 125 retail and 127 F&B outlets at the airport. The Summer Carnival at CSMIA features delightful activities across both Terminal 1 and Terminal 2, promising something for everyone. From brand offers and cashbacks to exclusive gifts and limited-time deals, passengers can enjoy personalised offers, gaming areas, and premium products, catering to every age group. One of the key highlights of the carnival is the special Mango Festival, where travellers can buy high-quality, rich-flavoured Alphonso mangoes, freshly handpicked from Ratnagiri and Devgad. Additionally, passengers stand a chance to win assured gift coupons with transactions above a specific amount. These coupons offer exclusive discounts and offers on flight bookings, train tickets, hotel bookings, and shopping. Adding to the fun is CSMIA’s very own Mr. Mango, a delightful mango mascot designed specifically to interact with children, offering them a memorable and cherished experience. Passengers can indulge in a Shopper's Paradise at CSMIA's Summer Carnival. From fashionable apparel and accessories to sweet confectioneries and gifts & souvenirs from Carlton London, Da Milano, Steve Madden, Hidesign, Parcos and many more. With so many options available at unbelievable prices, travellers can return home with a bag full of goodies and memories to last a lifetime. With the Summer carnival, passengers can look forward to celebrating the golden summer bliss with range of delectable food combos and browsing through top-notch retail outlets to get their hands on some of the most desirable summer essentials. From cooling beverages to mouth-watering delicacies from Baskin Robbins, Shree Datta Snacks, New York Burritos, Moti Mahal, Foody’s and many more, offering unbelievable deals and more. With so many irresistible offers available, travellers can be rest assured that their journey through CSMIA will be filled with delightful experiences at every turn. Embark on the ultimate summer adventure as you journey through CSMIA during the Summer Shopping Carnival. With a dedication to providing passengers with an unforgettable experience, CSMIA invites you to savour delicious cuisine, explore an array of shopping options, and create lasting memories.
15 May,2024 06:37 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentBeneath intermittent rainy skies, the Cannes Film Festival opened on Tuesday with the presentation of an honorary Palme d'Or for Meryl Streep and the unveiling of Greta Gerwig's jury, as the French Riviera spectacular kicked off a potentially volatile 77th edition. A 10-day stream of stars began flowing down the Cannes' red carpet with the opening night film: "The Second Act," a French comedy starring Lea Seydoux, Vincent Lindon, Louis Garrel and Raphael Quenard. They play squabbling actors filming a movie directed by an artificial intelligence. The festival's first lengthy standing ovation, though, went to Streep, who was awarded an honorary Palme d'Or during Tuesday's opening ceremony. After Juliette Binoche introduced her, Streep alternatively shook her head, fanned herself and danced while the crowd thunderously cheered. "I'm just so grateful that you haven't gotten sick of my face and you haven't gotten off of the train," said Streep, who thereafter declared Cannes officially open with Binoche. "My mother, who is usually right about everything, said to me: 'Meryl, my darling, you'll see. It all goes so fast. So fast," added Streep. "And it has, and it does. Except for my speech, which is too long." The reception was nearly as rapturous for Gerwig, the first American female filmmaker to serve as president of the Cannes jury that will decide the festival's top award, the Palme d'Or. Thierry Fremaux, Cannes' artistic director, on Monday, praised her as 'the ideal director' for Cannes, given her work across arthouse and studio film and her interest in cinema history. And, Fremaux said, "We very much liked Barbie." In the days to come, Cannes Film Festival 2024 will premiere George Miller's "Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga," Francis Ford Coppola's self-financed "Megalopolis" and anticipated new movies from Paolo Sorrentino, Yorgos Lanthimos, Andrea Arnold and Kevin Costner. Also Read: Cannes Rewind: 11 most sizzling red carpet looks But much of the drama surrounding this year's Cannes has been off-screen. After French actor Judith Godreche earlier this year accused two film directors of rape and sexual abuse when she was a teenager, the French film industry has been dealing with arguably its defining #MeToo moment. On Wednesday, Godreche will premiere her short "Moi Aussi." Asked about #MeToo expanding in France, Gerwig told reporters in Cannes on Tuesday that it's progress. "I think people in the community of movies telling us stories and trying to change things for the better is only good," Gerwig said. "I have seen substantive change in the American film community, and I think it's important that we continue to expand that conversation. So I think it's only moving everything in the correct direction. Keep those lines of communication open." Gerwig is joined on the jury by Lily Gladstone, star of "Killers of the Flower Moon," French actor Eva Green, Spanish filmmaker J.A. Bayona, French actor Omar Sy, Lebanese actor and director Nadine Labaki, Japanese filmmaker Hirokazu Kore-eda, Turkish screenwriter Ebru Ceylan and Italian actor Pierfrancesco Favino. "I thought I just got over my imposter syndrome last year," said the Oscar-nominated Gladstone. "But I'll start all over again." The jurors were asked how the many real-world concerns outside the festival might affect their deliberations. One film in competition, Ali Abbasi's "The Apprentice" stars Sebastian Stan as a young Donald Trump. Labaki was questioned on the war in Gaza. "I truly believe that one of the tools to really change something in the situation we all live in right now, which is a situation I think is not that great, is really through art and through cinema," said Labaki. "It may propose a more tolerant way of seeing things and seeing each other as human beings." Filmmakers, Favino said, play the important role of reminding the world of where it can find beauty. "This is why I decided that I could be here without feeling guilty as a human being," said Favino. "Because if we look for beauty, then we might look for peace." Other concerns are also swirling around Cannes Film Festival 2024. Festival workers, fed up with short-term contracts that leave them unqualified for unemployment benefits in between festivals, have threatened to strike. During Tuesday's opening ceremony, two small bands of festival workers protested, including one group that unfurled a banner from the roof of the Palais. On Monday, the Iranian filmmaker Mohammed Rasoulof, whose film "The Seed of the Sacred Fig" is premiering next week in competition in Cannes, said he had fled Iran after being sentenced to eight years in prison and flogging. The film is said to be a critical depiction of the Iranian government. As Cannes continues, though, many will be focused on the stars parading the festival's famous red carpet. They'll include Emma Stone, Anya Taylor-Joy, Demi Moore, Selena Gomez, Nicolas Cage and Barry Keoghan. At the closing ceremony on May 25, George Lucas is to receive an honorary Palme d'Or.Regardless, the 77th Cannes will have a lot to live up to. Last year's festival, widely celebrated for its robust line-up, produced three Oscar best picture nominees: "Anatomy of a Fall," "The Zone of Interest" and "Killers of the Flower Moon." To help rekindle the spirit of last year's festival, Messi, the canine star of "Anatomy of a Fall," was the first star to hit the red carpet on Tuesday. The border collie, enlisted to film daily snippets for French TV, frolicked up and down the carpet while tuxedo-clad photographers hollered "Messi! Messi!" Jake Coyle (AP) Cannes 2024: 'Barbie' director Greta Gerwig addresses #MeToo movement as jury president
15 May,2024 06:27 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentADVERTISEMENT
