Imagination is boundless in the world of fiction. And yet, writers in the genre will tell you otherwise. For filmmakers Ritu Sarin and Tenzing Sonam, this limit is drawn by reality. Tomorrow, the duo will host a special screening of their 2018 narrative feature film The Sweet Requiem, at a Versova venue, which will be followed by a discussion on how documentary evidence can shape fictional filmmaking. “The film tells the story of Dolkar, a 26-year-old Tibetan exile, who lives in Delhi. She had escaped from Tibet with her father 18 years ago, making a perilous trek across the Himalayas that ended in tragedy. Dolkar has suppressed all recollection of that traumatic incident, but when she unexpectedly encounters Gompo, the guide who abandoned them during their journey, memories of her escape are reignited and she is propelled on an obsessive search for retribution and closure,” Sonam, who was born in Darjeeling to Tibetan refugee parents, shares. This movie, he adds, was inspired by a friend and an acclaimed Swiss photographer Manuel Bauer’s photo essays, Escape From Tibet. “Manuel is documenting various aspects of the exile Tibetan community, including a wonderful book on the Dalai Lama. In 1995, at a time when thousands of young Tibetan children were being sent by their parents from Tibet to India, to gain a Tibetan education in the schools set up by the Tibetan government-in-exile, Manuel made an incredibly risky journey. He accompanied a father and his young daughter as they escaped from Lhasa over the Himalayas to reach India. It was one of the first visual records of the harrowing journey that thousands of Tibetans were making, simply for an opportunity to meet the Dalai Lama and provide a Tibetan education for their children. His photographs were an inspiration during the making of our film,” Sonam reveals. The screening, the duo explains, aims at shedding light on reality plays a huge part in creating fiction. They will share with the participants how they used fiction as a way of expanding on their documentary practice. Ritu Sarin and Tenzing Sonam “The main focus of the workshop is to show how documentary evidence has shaped our fictional filmmaking. We will use the example of Manuel Bauer’s audio-visual presentation of his photographs documenting a real-life escape from Tibet, in tandem with our fictional feature film that covers similar ground. It is also important for marginalised communities like the Tibetan exiles, who are under-represented in cinema, to be able to see their own stories,” shares Sarin. The workshop, which is being supported by the Embassy of Switzerland in India and Bhutan under their initiative SwitzerlandIndia, will also shed light on the challenges of making such films. For Sarin and Sonam, the biggest challenge was casting. “There are very few Tibetans in the exile community who have any acting experience, and we ended up working with a mostly non-professional cast. The locations were also extremely tough to navigate, from shooting at around 15,000 ft in late winter, to the full summer heat of Delhi in May. This was more difficult given that ours was a low-budget film. However, the cast and crew were magnificent, and we have many fond memories of the shoot,” she signs off. On April 30; 7.30 pm At Harkat Studios, Aaram Nagar Part 2, Versova, Andheri West.Log on to insider.inFree
29 April,2024 09:10 AM IST | Mumbai | Devanshi DoshiThe Welfare of Stray Dogs will make your child’s summer vacations paw-some! Their summer camp brings out the creative juices of the little munchkins. This subscription includes free kisses and cuddles by the dogs and cats under their care. Children can participate in activities like designing cat and dog-shaped cupcakes, pet photography, arts and craft, and even a creative writing Doggo Tails workshop. Age group 7 to 12 years From April 30 to May 4 (different time slots)At The Welfare of Stray Dogs, Anchor House, TJ Road, Sewri West. Email wsdeduprogram@gmail.com (to register)Cost Rs 250
29 April,2024 09:06 AM IST | Mumbai | The Guide TeamKilimanoor-born Raja Ravi Varma is known to be one of the leading figures in the history of modern art in India. His depictions of the Hindu gods and goddesses went on to influence their portrayal in art and cinema for years. He was celebrated for inventing the first oleograph press, which he set up in Ghatkopar in Mumbai. This gave rise to a massive production of prints of oil paintings, that resembled the original pieces closely. To commemorate his birth anniversary, today, we share what our readers can read, listen to, and watch to get to know the artist better. Raja Ravi Varma READPrince with a Paintbrush: The Story of Raja Ravi Varma by Shobha Tharoor Srinivasan Srinivasan’s book, illustrated by Rayika Sen, offers a great introduction into the life of Raja Ravi Varma. It tells the story of the seven-year-old Varma, who was often found colouring on the walls, and later, went on to paint for the princes in the royal courts. It has been narrated by a young protagonist, who sits down with her mother one day, and looks up the painter on the Internet. What she finds, fascinates her as she, too, dreams to be a painter. Readers learn about the European realist techniques Varma used and how prints of his paintings made it to middle-class homes through the first lithographic press. Sen’s illustrations alongside some of his paintings also make the book interactive for young readers. Available at all leading e-bookstores Shantanu and Matsyagandha LISTENAudiogyan’s Conversations on design and art (featuring author Manu Pillai) In this podcast episode, Manu Pillai, author of False Allies: India’s Maharajahs in the age of Ravi Varma, speaks about the painter by tracing his journey through five princely states in India in the late 19th century. There are several myths built around the painter as well as the Indian princes; Pillai lists down some, and uncovers the larger picture of what their roles truly were in shaping the political scenario of the nation. We see the painter through a nuanced lens: Raja Ravi Varma, not only as a talented painter, but also as a ‘hustler’, an entrepreneur who didn’t want to remain a mere aristocrat. LOG ON TO Spotify Podcasts Rupika Chawla describes a Raja Ravi Varma artwork in a moment from the documentary. Pic Courtesy/YouTube WATCHRestoring a Master’s Glory, directed by Dr Anandana Kapur While the book and the podcast episode cast light on his life and paintings, this documentary shows how these paintings have been preserved today. What is the understanding one needs in the work of preservation and care of art that was created more than a century ago? Rupika Chawla, art historian and conservator as well as author of Ravi Varma’s biography, takes us through key factors and ethics that one needs to observe to restore such work. In the process, she guides us into the subtleties which Varma worked into the portraits of the people and the fineries he painted. We also get a small glimpse into his initial thoughts while working on some of these, for instance, figurines that were painted over, but that later emerged lightly when the oil paint dried up. LOG ON TO Raja Ravi Varma Heritage Foundation YouTube
29 April,2024 08:04 AM IST | Mumbai | Nandini VarmaIndia is currently in the middle of its largest ever general elections. Over 900 million citizens are expected to participate. Of these, 20 million citizens will be first-time voters from Generation Z. Despite throwaway claims, the generation continues to be vocal about political values. A recent survey by the dating app, Tinder, highlighted that over 60 percent of Gen Z daters preferred dating someone who votes. One out of three respondents shared that a potential match is attractive only if they take elections seriously. This is necessary today, explain many GenZ-ers. Reflection of an individual Aime F, a Bandra resident, believes compatibility in political values is important among partners. “While I don’t limit myself in terms of caste, class or religion, I do screen my dates through the filter of some values that I hold close,” the 27-year-old clarifies. Many first-time voters believe strongly in individual freedoms. Representation pics These political beliefs reflect individual values. Ketaki Joshi, a first-time voter from Bandra Kurla Complex in this general election, remarks, “The political ideas stand for your core beliefs. Your opinions show what you care about.” Both agree that having an opinion makes a difference. Joshi notes, “I am fine if you have a strong opinion. If you simply don’t care about issues, it is hard for me to respect you.” Radhika Mohta, relationship coach and founder, Elevate-Dating Accelerator, remarks, “Political values are an extension of your views on life, and core beliefs, and personality. Over the years, the core of a person’s value system tends to remain the same; unless it is shifted by a drastic event.” Enables compatibility Coming from the minority community, Aime reflects, “Over the course of my experience, I have realised that it is frustrating for me to date someone on the extreme end of my views. The political leanings are not simply a matter of views, but also reflect their opinions on independence or personal freedoms.” Differing views Voicing the male perspective, Mayank Sharma, 22, says, “It would be favourable to have a common view, but it is not a huge disconnect.” Sharma believes that as long as the partner is willing to have a conversation, even on contentious subjects, he is willing to proceed. Ketaki Joshi, Mayank Sharma and Aaron Fernandes Vikhroli-resident Aaron Fernandes agrees. “We need to allow people the freedom to have their own ideas.” Fernandes adds that while he can accept a lack of political awareness, it is important that the person must be willing and open to learn about his views. This sharp difference in perspective from women is reflective of the current age. Mohta remarks, “The choice of a life partner, while it affects both the people, affects the woman much more. Her personal and professional life trajectory is often defined by these individual choices.” Set a clear stance Joshi admits many in her friend circle do make these opinions clear on their dating bios or profiles. “It helps them to clear the air beforehand. While I understand, personally I would prefer my potential date to see me beyond my political or social views. It is negotiable in that sense,” she says. For Gen Z daters, inability to discuss differing views is a red flag The reason for allowing this space, she reveals, is that it enables a conversation. Restricting it also narrows the dating pool considerably. For Aime, that is acceptable collateral damage. She states emphatically, “As a loud feminist, it is hard for me. I would date someone apolitical; it is a privileged view, and can change over time. But views that deny feminist rights cannot be accepted, and I make it clear from the start.” The men are more willing to allow such opinions to build over conversation. “Politics is not a daily routine, so I wouldn’t open with it. I would allow the conversation to build and arrive at the discussion naturally,” says Sharma. Fernandes adds, “I am unaware of a lot of things, and they would be the same. We need to allow time for a dialogue.” Joshi notes, “It is also interesting to have a conversation with someone who holds differing views, rather than always seeking out someone with whom we have everything in common.” Despite that, Joshi concludes, “For me, feminism remains a non-negotiable. It might sound cliché, but that is worth the stand. Others are fairly negotiable.” The politics of dating Dos 1 Use photographs to communicate your interests; the causes you support.2 Point out issues close to your heart in the bio.3 Mention your deal breakers on your dating profile loud and clear.4 Their ability to take a joke on key issues will reveal more about them . Don’ts 1 Do not be afraid to speak out about your passions or ideals.2 Do not choose a person who lacks a diverse friend group or only listens to an echo chamber.3 Avoid people who are argumentative and refuse to see your perspective on things. Inputs by Radhika Mohta , relationship coach
29 April,2024 07:58 AM IST | Mumbai | Shriram IyengarTomorrow (April 28) is World Art Deco Day. It came into existence to commemorate the date in 1925 when the International Exhibition of Modern Decorative and Industrial Arts opened its doors to the public in Paris. It was this event that inspired the term ‘Art Deco’ to describe this age’s Jazz-inspired design style and inspiration. To ring in the day, we suggest you check out Art Deco Trust Mumbai’s recently launched hand rendered watercolour postcards that highlight some of the marquee buildings from Mumbai’s UNESCO World Heritage Site-winning ensemble. From Soona Mahal and Dhanraj Mahal to Eros, Liberty and Regal cinemas, these postcards are a collectors’ delight, whether you’re a heritage nerd, appreciate watercolour art, or simply can’t have enough souvenirs dedicated to the Maximum City. LOG ON TO artdecomumbaitrust.myinstamojo.com/
27 April,2024 09:30 AM IST | Mumbai | The Guide TeamAsk anyone who has travelled in Mumbai’s local trains for long enough and they’ll tell you about the unhealthy number of times they have daydreamed about taking the loco pilot’s seat and zooming past to their destination. After all, how tough can it possibly be? RG Train Tech, a new train simulator developed by Sion-based engineer Inbasagar Nadar brings our wishful thinking to life. We dive into the mobile-based simulator to navigate the railroads in our new ride and hopefully find the answer along the way. The game opens to the main menu that offers two modes of play — Duties and Sandbox. The Duties section requires one to complete three tasks that include running a local train on time, delivering petrol wagons using a diesel locomotive, and navigating a goods train to the yard. The Sandbox, on the other hand, allows players to freely explore maps with no restrictions on movement or access. The Bombardier EMU model halts at Thakurli during a task We opt for the first task, and the game teleports us to a platform inside Dombivli railway station where a Bombardier EMU (the standard Mumbai local train model) awaits us. From the structure of the coaches and the decals on its exteriors, to the textures on the metal surfaces and the interiors in each of the compartments, the model is a replica of the real-life powerhouses. Nadar reveals that the models were made using technical drawings from academic textbooks and various sources online. He adds that they were later assembled and painted using Blender, a 3D workstation. We navigate to the loco-pilot’s cabin using the on-screen controls; and the mission begins. The task flashes on the screen — Dombivli to Kalyan in 10 minutes. We must orchestrate complex controls like the P/N/R gear shift, the dynamic brake, and the throttle to complete the task. The controls, in the absence of a pre-game tutorial, can be an ordeal initially for players with limited knowledge of simulators. “They might be difficult, but the aim was to make the experience feel real. The control layout is a result of inputs from various loco-pilots from a community of rail fans that I am a part of,” Nadar reveals. The view from a local train in the Sandbox mode Over the short trip to Kalyan, we notice that a panel on our screen allows us to change camera modes. With the throttle value set to the right amount, we choose the one that offers the widest view and sit back to enjoy the view. “The buildings, walls, and landscapes are all inspired by real life structures in the area. I made several field visits to the locations to get it right,” the developer shares. Nadar’s extensive field visits also lend the game a distinct novelty in terms of sound design. The 24-year-old shares that he recorded live sounds like horns, clicks and other ambient sounds from the site to be used in-game. While the quality of the sounds isn’t great, they add a fun, immersive layer to the experience. As we move to the other two tasks, this time in WDS-6 model locomotives, the controls start feeling familiar as we go about delivering coal and petroleum to the suburb of Thakurli. “I chose these suburbs on the Central Railway line as they offer a diverse experience within a small radius,” he shares, promising us that an upcoming update will expand the map westward to Mulund and Diva, and witness an upgrade in audio quality. Inbasagar Nadar Over subsequent updates, Nadar plans to introduce passengers and ticket checking squads. “I am being mindful about the additions because adding too many elements makes the game difficult to run on lower-end devices,” he shares. Before we sign off, we nudge the developer to include the Western Railway in the game soon. “After requests to launch the game for Apple devices, this is the second most common query I receive. I am focusing on fixing bugs and expanding what we already have. The update for Western line might face a delay,” he concludes. Thankfully, it’s nothing that Mumbai’s hardcore commuters aren’t already used to. AVAILABLE ON Play Store EMAIL radangamedevelopers@gmail.com (to submit suggestions)
27 April,2024 09:25 AM IST | Mumbai | Devashish KambleMove over refrigerator magnets, keychains and straw hats — there’s a new kind of travel souvenir in town and, unlike most others that simply gather dust in your storage after a few weeks, this piece of memorabilia can stay with you for your entire lifetime. We’re referring to vacation tattoos, a rising trend among hip, experimental globe-trotters. Take, for instance, newly-weds Ira Khan and Nupur Shikhare who decided to get inked together during their honeymoon in Bali. While the happy couple chose matching turtles, tattoo artists in the city say that the trend is gaining more steam than ever before. “As holidays and tattoos become more accessible to younger generations of travellers, it is but a natural next step to combine the two. While this isn’t a completely new phenomenon — we’ve all heard of those infamous ‘Goa’ tattoos — we’ve had many people travelling to or transiting through Mumbai, who stop by for a quick tattoo to remind them of their blissful holiday,” says Ronit Raut, lead tattoo artist and owner of Black Dot Ink Tattoo Studio in Andheri. Ujjwal Judge; Ronit Raut and J’son D’souza Inking memories Raut recommends small, minimal motifs that relate to the most memorable aspects of your holiday. If you’re starved for ideas, he suggests sticking to aeroplanes, waves or even a compass. “I believe that tattoos become cooler once they have a special meaning attached to them. For example, if you’re taking a trip to the mountains, you can describe the elements that comprise your journey in your tattoo — the mountains, the scenic beauty of nature and yourself as a small character can be incorporated into a neat design. Stick to minimal tattoos that don’t require too many sittings to not interfere with the rest of your travel itinerary,” suggests Ujjwal Judge, a tattoo artist and founder of Portal Tattoo, Bhayandar. Although it may seem exciting to get yourself inked in a foreign language or with exotic religious symbols, the artists advise against it. “Unless you’ve done your research about the culture and language, and are very sure about what your tattoo means and represents, steer clear of these designs. The biggest reason why travel tattoos are often the ones that we receive cover-up requests for is because they often don’t mean or portray what the clients think they do and, even worse, are culturally offensive or insensitive,” says Raut. The flip side “I would advise against travel tattoos,” cautions J’son D’souza, owner of Tatau Tattoo & Piercing Studio, Malad. He adds that since tattoos are a lifelong commitment and require careful aftercare; they shouldn’t be undertaken on a whim. “It’s very important to do your research about the tattoo studio and artist to make sure their style and standards meet your expectations. Tattoos also require a lot of careful aftercare, which is nearly impossible to do while on vacation,” he elaborates. Raut adds, “In India, people love to get inked in Goa because of the low costs and, often, because they’re acting on an alcohol-fuelled impulse [remember what happened to Ed Helms’ character Stu in The Hangover Part II?]. The tattoos don’t heal properly as they neglect the aftercare and also because of the poor standards of the studios. If you don’t have the time to research your options, it’s best to skip the tattoo and enjoy the rest of your vacation instead,” he advises. Plan right Dos. Avoid direct exposure to sunlight and excessive sweat. Don’t swim until the tattoo has healed. Hydrate before and during the session. Ensure you’ve eaten before, so you have enough energy to sit through the session. Make sure your artist understands your idea to create the ideal design Don’ts. Drunk tattoos don’t heal well and can be a cause of instant regret. Research the artist’s work and check hygiene standards at the studio - Ronit Raut, Ujjwal Judge
27 April,2024 09:20 AM IST | Mumbai | Anindita PaulSustained by love WE started the Pune Jazz and Blues Club back in the early 2000s, and I took over in 2010. The objective was to make people aware of jazz through listening sessions, recordings and musical concerts. It was never to charge money. We still have free entry for listening sessions. We have Mehdi Niroomand of Shisha Café in Pune who loves and wants to promote jazz music. Most jazz clubs are sustained by the love for the genre. They are not money spinners, not even in the USA. Despite its growth, it remains a niche genre. But it is growing and has a steady following here. We started out with listening sessions, but slowly added video content, and sessions on jazz history to complement live performances. Ashwin Panemangalore, co-founder, Pune Jazz and Blues Club Casual and fun Mehrotra’s artwork for the cover Jazz Yatra 1988 While I was in Dubai in the ’70s, I would often buy records. My mother was trained in Hindustani classical, and I grew up around music. One of the first albums that switched me to jazz was The Weather Report. It was a game-changer. Later, I was part of the team with Jazz Yatra started by Niranjan Zaveri. We were lucky to hear Dizzy Gillespie perform. So, when I was approached to create the covers for the album, I was more than happy. The challenge was that you could not pick a theme because the performers were so diverse. So, I would focus on a single instrument or performer, and paint in my style. I still attend jazz concerts in Mumbai. The only thing I miss is that it has become clinical. Jazz should be casual and fun. At most shows these days, you are seated. It does not have the same feel. Jaideep Mehrotra, artist and jazz lover, Mumbai The artist with his collection of records. Pics Courtesy/Jaideep Mehrotra.com For the passionate listener Records from Sujit Sinha’s collection I started collecting [music] in 1987 when I was in my teens. It started with pop and classical rock, but I realised many of them had jazz influences. The first album was Miles Davis’ Kind Of Blue. That was different and very interesting. One of my particular interests has been the sub-genre of British Jazz. The trigger for me was the music of Amancio D’Silva. He was a guitarist from Goa, who moved to England and created a record with the Caribbean-origin saxophonist Joe Harriott. The album was called Hum Dono. That caught my attention. Slowly, I discovered other names in the genre. British jazz is very distinct, and is a melting pot of influences from India, the Caribbean, and the subcontinent. Bengaluru has a rich heritage of jazz culture. Recently, Windmills Craftworks in Whitefield hosted several jazz musicians. But the genre is still one for passionate listeners. Despite the growing interest of youngsters in records and collections, it is not a popular genre among listeners. Sujit K Sinha, records collector, Bengaluru Sujit K Sinha Shifting interests My love for jazz dates back to school. I was always fascinated by the improvisational aspect of the genre. It also helped that I was trained in both Western and Hindustani classical music. Hindustani classical, in fact, has more in common with jazz and helped to sharpen my instincts further. While I have only been travelling as a performer recently, I can tell that Mumbai has a more aware jazz listener. They are exposed to diverse music. Delhi is growing that culture, especially with The Piano Man Jazz Club. But I can tell you that there is a definite audience, though niche. The marker for me is the wedding season. I was surprised when friends told me about a growing request for commercial jazz at Indian weddings. Now, even if they are asking for Michael Bublé or Frank Sinatra at an Indian wedding, I would take it as a win. It shows a shift in pattern. Meera Desai, bassist and vocalist, Mumbai Gigs to catch . Quadrophonic: Catch the quartet of Sanjay Divecha, Prayaag Baruah, Rhythm Shaw and Srinjay Banerjee team up with Louiz Banks for a rare performance. ON April 28; 11 amAT Prithvi Theatre, Juhu Church Road, Juhu.LOG ON TO prithvitheatre.orgCOST Rs 500 . Jazz and cocktails: Schubert Vaz, Anand Vaity, William Fernandes and Steve Francis put up a special celebration of jazz with this concert by The Bombay Jazz Club. ON April 30; 6 pm onwardsAT The Irish House, Phoenix Mall, Senapati Bapat Marg Lower Parel.LOG ON TO in.bookmyshow.comCOST Rs 499 . Celebrate on the big stage: The 13th edition of the International Jazz Day takes stage with Louiz Banks bringing together a range of artistes from Adrian D’Souza and Gary Lawyer, to Emmanuel Simon and Omkar Dhumal. ON April 30; 7 pmAT Tata Theatre, NCPA, Nariman Point.LOG ON TO in.bookmyshow.comCOST Rs 944 onwards . Guitar on live: Rhythm Shaw will showcase his virtuoso guitar skills in a special jazz session at this Bandra venue. ON April 30; 10 pmAT Bonobo, Kenilworth Plaza, off Linking Road, Bandra West. FREE
27 April,2024 09:15 AM IST | Mumbai | Shriram IyengarShinobis of Mumbai, here’s your chance to prove who the OG Hokage is. This Saturday, a cafe in Versova will be hosting a Naruto Trivia and Cosplay night. The guests of honour will be cats, who apart from giving their purr of encouragement from time to time, will also be up for adoption. The evening will include three rounds (more if there is a need for tie-breakers). While the first round will be a question-and-answer session, the second will up the game by asking participants who said a particular dialogue in the anime. The one that follows will require them to give wrong answers only; this stage will test both the participant’s creativity and knowledge about the show. Members of the Team 7 “We host similar trivia nights at least once a month. The idea is to bring feline-lovers of a particular fandom together, build a community and make them see how cats can be some of the best companions of humans,” shared executive director of Cat Cafe Studio, Lamya Kapadia. Winners in the trivia and cosplay segment stand a chance to win original merchandise from the anime verse by The Sensei Store. On April 27, 6 pm onwards. At Cat Cafe Studio, Aaram Nagar Part 1, Versova, Andheri West.Log on to insider.inCost Rs 300 Secrets of the shinobi Tsunade >>Naruto's name was inspired by Japanese surimi (fish paste) narutomaki. This topping for ramen has a pink or red spiral design in the middle.>>Narutomaki’s spiral-shaped patterns, as also seen on Naruto’s costume, are believed to represent the whirlpools found in the Naruto Strait.>>The protagonist’s Hokage moniker, Orange Hokage, is a tribute to his parents (red hair) and Minato (yellow hair). When red combines with yellow, it creates orange.>>The character, name and plot for Sasuke was inspired by Sanpei Shirato’s 1961-published manga, Sasuke.>>Naruto’s blood type is B. The Japanese believe that people of this blood type are easy-going and bubbly. Game on! Let's see how well two Naruto fans fare in our warm-up quiz before the big night. Questions:1. Who is the new member of Team 7?2. How many gates did Might Guy open while fighting Kisame?3. Who took the cursed mark off Sasuke?4. What is Zabuza’s sword called?5. Who was the legendary Sannin who became the fifth Hokage?6. How much time does a Leaf Village ninja take to reach the Sand Village? Rahil Parkar, 24, founder of Castu, Nerul4/6>> Sai>> Was it 7 or 8? >> Itachi>> I cannot recall>> Tsunade>> 3 days Dakshata Pawar, 23, founder of Mage Coven, Santacruz3.5/6>> Sai>> Eight>> The red head girl>> Kubikiri something>> Tsunade>> 3 days Correct answers: 1. Sai 2. Six 3. Itachi 4. Kubikiribocho 5. Tsunade 6. Three days
26 April,2024 07:58 AM IST | Mumbai | Devanshi DoshiHere’s an art exhibition with a difference. Tomorrow, attend End of Year Exhibition 4.0 organised by Saturday Art Class, a women-led non-profit organisation started by Manasi Mehan and Chhavi Khandelwal in 2017. The platform is dedicated to nurturing creativity and holistic development in children from lesser privileged communities through visual arts and social-emotional learning. The event offers visitors all kinds of opportunities including immersive art experiences, interactive installations and workshops (Surreal Art Collage Workshop and Celebrating our City and Mumbai in Madhubani Art style). On April 27, 10 am to 6 pmAt Pioneer Hall, St John the Baptist Road, Bandra West. Log on to urbanaut.app/partner/saturdayartclass (to register) Craving a rave? Kitchen Rave, a convergence of culinary arts and house music, is making its public debut at its new IP, Kitchen Rave Station. Witness chef Rafael Garcia cook up a Latin American feast while DJs Sim Sim and Zokhuma bring in the heat with their tunes. On Today; 11 pm at Los Cavos, 24th Road, off Linking Road, Bandra West. Log on to @kitchenrave.in (to register) Cost Revealed on request
26 April,2024 07:55 AM IST | Mumbai | The Guide TeamThis month, as part of Sarmaya Talks’ immersive sessions themed on culture and heritage, Vidya Shah and Madhur Gupta will showcase their projects that aim to shine a light on the rich legacy of musicians and dancers respectively in India. Carnatic musician Shah has been working, for almost a decade, on building an archive of women who made music in the gramophone era of the early 20th century. Although some of her work is recorded in her book Jalsa: Indian Women and their Journeys from Salon to the Studio, it did not end there. “There were several of these women, who were called Baijis, who became an integral part of the clan,” she says, “This is a subject that has the potential to keep growing. We’re only at the tip [of the iceberg].” Vidya Shah Shah spent time reading books at the British Library and its South Asian archives and libraries in India which contained accounts in Hindi and Bengali. She was most excited by personal stories preserved in the homes of the families who were associated with these musicians. Travelling and collecting these stories was important. “For instance, a lot of zamindars in Kolkata would do soirees or mehfils with the Baijis. Their families continue to live there. Then, there are some baadis [Bengali: houses] with walls full of portraits of musicians. They are frozen in time… It’s like you almost touch that world.” Odissi dancer Madhur Gupta’s work on courtesans of India in his book, Courting Hindustan, is in a similar vein. He digs deeper into the socio-economic and political conditions under which the courtesans had been creating music across centuries and the role they played in shaping the cultural history of the country. Looking at original archives, especially audio and video recordings, and research papers helped him in the process. “The real challenge was to research about courtesans of ancient India because there is no real evidence to go back to, other than the Sanskrit texts and manuscripts,” he reveals. His talk will explore the political dynamics that these women held in their time, and the effect of questions of morality, most dominantly seen in the colonial era, on them. He will portray some of their emotions through a live performance as well. ON April 26; 6 pm onwardsAT Joss, 2nd Floor, Rampart Row, 30, K Dubash Marg, Kala Ghoda, Fort.LOG ON TO @sarmaya_india (to register)
26 April,2024 07:47 AM IST | Mumbai | Nandini VarmaADVERTISEMENT
