Kolkata International Film Festival Announces France as Focus Country
The 30th edition of the Kolkata International Film Festival (KIFF) slated to be held from December 4 to 11 will celebrate the rich tapestry of international cinema, with a special focus on French cinema. The festival will showcase a diverse range of 175 films from 41 countries.
A special segment is dedicated to contemporary French women filmmakers. Renowned directors like Caroline Vignal, Celine Rouzet, and Elise Otzenberger are expected to present their latest works. The festival will also screen classic French films.
The KIFF 2024 logo and theme song were unveiled by State Minister Aroop Biswas, Minister and Co-Chief Advisor Indranil Sen, and the festival Chairman, Goutam Ghosh.
Nov 25, 2024
Pankaj Tripathi is Festival Ambassador for Arunachal Rang Mahotsav 2024
In a recognition of his contribution to Indian cinema and the performing arts, acclaimed actor Pankaj Tripathi was appointed as the festival ambassador for the Arunachal Rang Mahotsav 2024, a prestigious international theatre festival. This marks a significant moment for both the actor and the festival, as Pankaj Tripathi's appointment underscores the growing cultural recognition of Arunachal Pradesh and its thriving arts scene.
The Arunachal Rang Mahotsav, the largest of its kind in Northeast India, is set to run from November 29, 2024, to December 5, 2024, in Arunachal Pradesh.
World's Oldest Alphabet Writings Discovered in Syria, Archaeologists Claim
US researchers discovered what appears to be the oldest known alphabetic writing in the world, after finding finger-length clay cylinders from a tomb in Syria with the etched details. Using carbon-14 dating techniques, the researchers at John Hopkins University determined that the cylinders were made around 2400 B.C.E., which makes them around 500 years older than any other known alphabetic scripts. Alongside the writings, the researchers discovered early Bronze Age tombs, including a well-preserved grave with six burials inside.
Nov 23, 2024
Om Birla Inaugurates India's First Constitution Museum
India's first Constitution Museum, inaugurated by Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla at O.P. Jindal Global University (JGU) in Sonipat, Haryana, aims to enhance public understanding of the Constitution. This initiative, launched alongside the National Convention on the Constitution of India, is a tribute to the architects of the Indian Constitution and a celebration of its 75-year journey since adoption.
The museum, supported by advanced technology, features interactive displays, installations, and AI-driven experiences. It is designed to educate visitors on the Constitution's journey, its evolution, and the significant role it plays in shaping India's democracy. Sections of the museum explore different parts of the Constitution, offering an immersive, multi-format experience. The museum is a part of JGU's efforts to democratise access to constitutional knowledge, making it accessible to all citizens, not just legal professionals.
Nov 22, 2024
Japan Joins Hornbill Festival 2024 as Partner
Japan was announced as the country partner for the upcoming Hornbill Festival in Nagaland, alongside Wales, which was previously confirmed as a partner country. This decision was made after Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio and other senior officials met with representatives from the Japanese Embassy in India, including Takashi Ariyoshi and Mayumi Tsubakimoto.
The Hornbill Festival, also known as the "Festival of Festivals," is an annual celebration that showcases the rich cultural heritage of Nagaland. This year's (2024) festival, scheduled to take place from December 1 to 10 at Kisama near Kohima, promises to be an exciting event with Japan's participation in various sectors, including cultural performances, capacity building, and workshops on handicrafts and bamboo products.
Nov 16, 2024
PM Modi Inaugurates First Bodoland Mahotsov in Delhi
Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the first-ever Bodoland Mohotsov at the SAI Indira Gandhi Sports Complex in New Delhi. The two-day festival, celebrated the rich culture and heritage of the Bodoland region. The Prime Minister also addressed the gathering during the inauguration.
Organised by the All-Bodo Students' Union (ABSU), Bodo Sahitya Sabha (BSS), Dularai Bodo Harimu Afad, and Gandhi Hindustani Sahitya Sabha (GHSS), the event featured traditional Bodo dance performances like "Bagurumba" and "Rwnswndri." The PM Modi also paid tribute to Bodofa Upendra Nath Brahma, a key figure in the Bodo movement, and launch the Bodoland Jaiklong souvenir.
The festival's theme, "Peace and Harmony for a Prosperous Bharat," highlighted the cultural richness of Bodoland and its role in India's national heritage.