The 11th International Puppet Festival in Chandigarh
The Union Territory of Chandigarh became a melting pot of cultural heritage and artistic innovation as it hosted the 11th International Puppet Festival at Tagore Theatre. The event, inaugurated by Punjab Governor and Administrator of Union Territory Chandigarh, Banwarilal Purohit, alongside Adviser to the Administrator Rajeev Verma and other dignitaries, marked a significant celebration of puppetry's rich legacy and its enduring appeal across ages.
The festival commenced with a spellbinding performance by the Novosibirsk Regional Puppet Theatre from Russia, captivating the audience with the renowned puppet show "Petrushka." This opening act set the tone for the festival, showcasing the global appeal and artistic depth of puppetry.
In a bid to make the festival accessible to a broader audience, the Department organized special morning shows exclusively for school students, while evening shows were open to the general public. This thoughtful scheduling ensured that enthusiasts of all ages had the opportunity to experience the magic of puppetry firsthand.
This exhibition offered visitors a unique opportunity to explore the art of puppet-making through live demonstrations. Artisans and puppeteers shared their skills and insights, providing a behind-the-scenes look at the intricate craftsmanship that goes into creating these enchanting figures.
Feb 20, 2024
Aadi Mahotsav - National Tribal Festival Concludes
The annual 'Aadi Mahotsav – National Tribal Festival', inaugurated by President Droupadi Murmu concluded. The 9 day festival was organised in the heart of the capital city at Major Dhyan Chand National Stadium, New Delhi, from February 10 to February 18 by TRIFED showcasing its commitment to empowering tribal communities through celebration of the spirit of tribal entrepreneurship, crafts, culture, cuisine, and commerce.
The highlights of this year (2024) included launching of the Venture Capital Fund for Scheduled Tribes aiming to nurture start-up culture and economic innovation among tribal entrepreneurs.
Approximately 1100 tribal artisans, artists, healers, chefs, and cultural troupes from 27 States and Union Territories showcased their work.
From handicrafts and handloom textiles to paintings and jewellery, each masterpiece showcased exceptional craftsmanship and untold stories woven into tribal culture.
Feb 19, 2024
Hyderabad's 36th National Book Fair
The NTR Stadium in Hyderabad hosted the 36th edition of the National Book Fair.
The event was organised by the Hyderabad Book Fair Society.
Drawing bibliophiles (People who love and collect books) from all corners of the city, the fair was a highly anticipated annual event.
This year's (2024) fair showcased a vast array of literature across 365 stalls, with 115 exclusively featuring Telugu works.
Prime Minister Modi Virtually Unveils Mahabharata-Inspired Jyotisar Anubhav Kendra
Prime Minister Narendra Modi virtually inaugurated the Jyotisar Anubhav Kendra, a museum and interpretation centre inspired by the epic Mahabharata, from Rewari. While the project is still under completion, the opening of two out of its five planned galleries marked a promising start. This initiative, with an investment of approximately Rs. 240 crore, is set to enhance the cultural and spiritual tourism landscape of Kurukshetra, Haryana.
The Jyotisar Anubhav Kendra is located in Jyotisar, the revered site where, according to Hindu mythology, Lord Krishna imparted the Bhagavad Gita's teachings to Arjuna, igniting the inception of the Mahabharata war. This centre aims to offer visitors a profound understanding and experience of this pivotal moment in Indian mythology through state-of-the-art galleries and exhibits.
Feb 13, 2024
PM Modi Inaugurates First Hindu Temple in Abu Dhabi
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the first Hindu temple 'Bochasanwasi Akshar Purushottam Swaminarayan Sanstha' (BAPS) in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates.
Spiritual leader Mahant Swami Maharaj, oversaw the temple's inauguration.
Chief Secretary Dulloo Inaugurates 2nd Edition of the SARAS Aajeevika Mela
Chief Secretary Atal Dulloo inaugurated the 2nd edition of the SARAS Aajeevika Mela, organised by the Jammu & Kashmir Rural Livelihoods Mission (JKRLM). Accompanied by dignitaries including Dr. Shahid Iqbal Choudhary and Indu Kanwal Chib, Dulloo emphasised the event's role in showcasing the resilience and creativity of rural women entrepreneurs.
Featuring over 220 rural women from 15 states, the Mela offered a platform for self-help group artisans to exhibit their craftsmanship. With 60 stalls, including 40 from outside Jammu and Kashmir, the event boasts a diverse array of handloom and handicraft products.
The primary objective of SARAS Aajeevika Mela was to empower rural women by providing a direct market for their products, enhancing their marketing skills, and fostering cultural exchange. Through exhibitions, sales, and cultural programs, the Mela aimed to promote economic empowerment and preserve cultural heritage.
Feb 11, 2024
New Delhi Book Fair 2024
The New Delhi Book Fair, organised by the National Book Trust in collaboration with the India Trade Promotion Organization (ITPO), is being held at Pragati Maidan from February 10 to 18, 2024. This year's (2024) theme, 'Multilingual India: A Living Tradition', promises a celebration of linguistic diversity and cultural exchange.
Saudi Arabia took centre stage as the Guest of Honour, showcasing its rich literary heritage. With 25 delegates from the Kingdom participating, the fair becomes a platform for strengthening bilateral ties between India and Saudi Arabia.
President Droupadi Murmu Inaugurates Four-day Cultural Extravaganza 'Vividhta Ka Amrit Mahotsav'
President Droupadi Murmu inaugurated the four-day cultural extravaganza 'Vividhta ka Amrit Mahotsav: A cultural odyssey' unveiling the richness of Northeast India at Amrit Udyan, Rashtrapati Bhavan in New Delhi. On the occasion, the President said that the diverse culture of our country is our strength and soft power.
The Mahotsav is being held as a part of Udyan Utsav, 2024 organised by the Ministry of DoNER in partnership with the Culture Ministry. The festival aims to foster exchanges in traditional handicrafts, handlooms, and agro products, becoming a catalyst for the region's growth and development.