January 5, 2024
Lamakaan, Hyderabad
This special celebration brings together some of the stalwarts of the Bazm e Sukhan. Joining us will be Janab Ram Pal Joshi Sahib from Chandigarh, Satish Kumar Sahib from Delhi, Mohtarma Shobhana T from Bangalore, Janab Satya Prabhakar from Chennai, Doctor Umair Ullah Khan from Edinburgh, and Dr Bharat Rayasam from Dallas.
The agenda will feature select recitals of the best of Urdu poetry by
Elahe Hiptoola
Ashhar Farhan
R P Joshi
Satish Kumar
Shobhana T
Zaheer
Umair Ullah Khan
Gul e Rana
Satya Prabhakar
The evening will also feature a release of Satya Prabhakar’s 2024 edition of the much acclaimed and successful Alfaf ki Mehfil
And Asrar Ahmed Khan’s Daman e Gulcheen
Dinner at Lamakaan follows
The event is a call for solidarity with the people of Palestine and a chance to learn more about the ongoing struggle. It is an opportunity to engage with like-minded individuals and to show support for the Palestinian cause. The event will provide a platform for people to share their thoughts and feelings on the issue, while the photo exhibition will showcase the reality of life in Palestine.
Join us in amplifying the rhythm of expression.
“the glass of martyrdom”
Multiple shows performed successfully in Mumbai, Bangalore, Mysore and Dharwad.
A theatrical adaptation of Saadat Hasan Manto’s story Shaheed – Saaz is a sharp satirical look at the post partition era when people were swayed with the idea of sacrifice and martyrdom even as they struggled to adapt to a new national identity. The immense loss of life and property resulted in poor migrants living at the mercy of charity. And yet few shrewd businessmen profited from this, painting their profiteering with the colors of supreme sacrifice and martyrdom. Set in 1948 the story is about the journey of one such Punjabi migrant from Kathiawad, Gujarat in India to Lahore in Pakistan. Belonging to the class of ‘Baniyas’ the man, who had a successful business of cocaine in Kathiawad, Gujarat, travels to Pakistan in search of setting up a new big business in his newly formed homeland. Working hard to build his empire and multiply his wealth, he is suddenly struck by a misplaced angst that he had neglected doing any charitable work since his arrival here. He starts searching for that one charitable act which will earn him his place in heaven. But nothing seems worthy of his benevolence as he travels through the length and breadth of the city and shares his experiences after interacting with people of all types and classes.
PERFORMERS – NARENDRA SACHAR
SANJEEV MEHTA
VOICE OVER - NAVED ASLAM
STORY BY – SAADAT HASAN MANTO
ADAPTATION – SANJEEV MEHTA & MAYA RAO
LIGHTS & SOUND - MAYA RAO
COSTUMES & PROPERTIES - SONIA MEHTA
PRODUCER – MAYA RAO
DIRECTOR NARENDRA SACHAR
Venue : LAMAKAAN , banjara hills.
Duration: 2 hours
Art Supplies: Will be provided by the Facilitator. All Age group participants are allowed.
Registration Fee: 399/-
Our painting workshop is meant to help to connect with one's creative self while also experiencing the therapeutic benefits of art. in this workshop we love to teach the beauty of the "Minimal Art” we 'Aahatha Art Studio' are motivated by a genuine love of art and exploring the tradition of Art forms. we are dedicated to creating a supportive, non-profit atmosphere that supports artistic experimentation.
calling all to join our exciting painting workshop. discover the magic of painting in a supportive space where imagination knows no limits. let's create. Explore, and have a blast together
SMS Description:
Its story time!! see you on 7th
“the glass of martyrdom”
Multiple shows performed successfully in Mumbai, Bangalore, Mysore and Dharwad.
A theatrical adaptation of Saadat Hasan Manto’s story Shaheed – Saaz is a sharp satirical look at the post partition era when people were swayed with the idea of sacrifice and martyrdom even as they struggled to adapt to a new national identity. The immense loss of life and property resulted in poor migrants living at the mercy of charity. And yet few shrewd businessmen profited from this, painting their profiteering with the colors of supreme sacrifice and martyrdom. Set in 1948 the story is about the journey of one such Punjabi migrant from Kathiawad, Gujarat in India to Lahore in Pakistan. Belonging to the class of ‘Baniyas’ the man, who had a successful business of cocaine in Kathiawad, Gujarat, travels to Pakistan in search of setting up a new big business in his newly formed homeland. Working hard to build his empire and multiply his wealth, he is suddenly struck by a misplaced angst that he had neglected doing any charitable work since his arrival here. He starts searching for that one charitable act which will earn him his place in heaven. But nothing seems worthy of his benevolence as he travels through the length and breadth of the city and shares his experiences after interacting with people of all types and classes.
PERFORMERS – NARENDRA SACHAR
SANJEEV MEHTA
VOICE OVER - NAVED ASLAM
STORY BY – SAADAT HASAN MANTO
ADAPTATION – SANJEEV MEHTA & MAYA RAO
LIGHTS & SOUND - MAYA RAO
COSTUMES & PROPERTIES - SONIA MEHTA
PRODUCER – MAYA RAO
DIRECTOR NARENDRA SACHAR
We at Lamakaan are kicking off a series “Untold Histories of Hyderabad''. There cannot be a greater social tragedy than people of a region having been denied their histories. We intend to provide a platform where these untold stories are shared and exchanged with authors, academicians, scholars, students independent researchers, etc, to produce an archive, an accurate knowledge system, that the current and future generations can access.
The first workshop session is intended to demystify the merger of Hyderabad State into the Indian Union in Sep 1948 under the military project “Operation Polo” popularly known as “Police Action”. In-person attendance will be Prof. Afsar Mohammed, University of Pennsylvania, and the author of the recently published book “Remaking History: 1948 Police Action and the Muslims of Hyderabad”.
ALL ARE WELCOME! ENTRY FREE!
While we celebrate the New Year with fervor and gaiety, let's celebrate the cinema of Hollywood's most elegant film director, Ernst Lubtisch's films.
Ernst Lubitsch (/ˈluːbɪtʃ/; January 29, 1892 – November 30, 1947) was a German-born film director, producer, writer, and actor. His urbane comedies of manners gave him the reputation of being Hollywood's most elegant and sophisticated director; as his prestige grew, his films were promoted as having "the Lubitsch touch". Among his best known works are Trouble in Paradise (1932), Design for Living (1933), Ninotchka (1939), The Shop Around the Corner (1940), To Be or Not to Be (1942) and Heaven Can Wait (1943).
He was nominated for the Academy Award for Best Director three times for The Patriot (1928), The Love Parade (1929), and Heaven Can Wait (1943). In 1946, he received an Honorary Academy Award for his distinguished contributions to the art of the motion picture.
Film Title: THE SHOP AROUND THE CORNER | 1940 | 99 Mins | US | English Language with English Subtitles
About the film: The Shop Around the Corner is a 1940 American romantic comedy film produced and directed by Ernst Lubitsch and starring Margaret Sullavan, James Stewart and Frank Morgan. The screenplay was written by Samson Raphaelson based on the 1937 Hungarian play Parfumerie by Miklós László. Eschewing regional politics in the years leading up to World War II, the film is about two employees at a leathergoods shop in Budapest who can barely stand each other, not realizing they are falling in love as anonymous correspondents through their letters
SCREENING FOLLOWED BY DISCUSSION! ALL ARE WELCOME!!! ENTRY IS FREE & OPEN TO ALL!!!
Prof. Subendu Ghosh takes us on a musical journey through India’s secular traditions of Amir Khusro, Kabir, Tansen, Bulle Shah, Lalan Faqeer, Nazeer Akbarabadi, Tagore, Faiz, Ramprasad Bismil and others. Composed and sung by Subendu, this is a performance of sheer breadth of traditions covered in an evening.
This is a presentation to remind ourselves as we pass through a difficult period of communal tensions and violence, about India’s secular commitment. The people of India have lived in peace and harmony over the ages. Despite differences in religions, they have all contributed to build a very rich and composite culture, and this is beautifully reflected in our literature and music. This programme is a musical journey through India’s traditions of secular poetry, in a historical order beginning from the 13th century to the present day. Most of the music is composed and sung by Dr. Subhendu Ghosh and is based on Hindustani ragas or other musical forms including the traditional folk songs. The narrative includes a number of historical personalities like Hazrat Amir Khusro, Kabir, Mian Taan Sen, Bulle Shah, Lalan Faqir, Nazeer Akbarabadi, Ramprasad Bismil, Faiz Ahmed Faiz and Rabindranath Tagore. This is a small effort to highlight the poetic genius of our Indian poets and pay our tribute to those who dedicated their lives to a Secular India.
ALL ARE WELCOME! ENTRY FREE!
Mohammed Shoeb Saqib Ibrahim is trained classical and ghazal singer. He was also awarded Begum Akhtar award as best ghazal singer. His melodious voice will turn the normal evening into a magical evening.
This ghazal night is organized by Raffu Chakkar Entertainers as part of celebrations as we step into the 12th year anniversary in the field of performance arts. Ticket Rs 150/-
Artist Kota Prasanna Jyothi , a practicing visual artist and painting teacher from Hyderabad .
Basic Materials will be provided
presents
A double bill of Madabhushi Divakar Babu`s Telugu plays
PUTUKKU ZARA ZARA DUBUUKU MEY
&
KUNDETI KOMMU
Directed by Rathna Shekar
Bookings at in.bookmyshow.com.
"PUTUKKU ZARA ZARA DUBUKKU MEY"
Putukku Zara Zara Dubukku Mey is a hilarious comedy that revolves around Janaki (who borrows every little thing from the neighbourhood) and her husband Prasadam, a simple middle-class guy vexed with Janaki. As Janaki decides to attend a function, the couple encounter a turn of events and get into trouble after borrowing a necklace from the house owner Ramanatham. What happens to the couple when Kaasipathi and Venkubabu interfere in this mess? Is Prasadam’s frustration with everyone around him ever going to end? Let`s watch the play and find out.
KUNDETI KOMMU
Kundeti Kommu revolves around a conflict between two villages Pedduru and Chinnuru which were once one. Owing to differences, two brothers Pedda Dora and Chinna Dora separate, which not only creates the division of this village but also plants seeds of vengeance in the hearts of these people. While a wanderer conversing with an educated urbanite, suddenly collapses exactly on the boundary line of the two villages. This triggers a conflict between the two villages on who shall take up the responsibility to perform the last rites of the dead person.
Last date of registration: 11th Jan, 2024
Registration link: https://forms.gle/9HuJKdd7XSFi3KyW9
Contact for more details: 9956007659 (whatsApp)
presents
A double bill of Telugu classics
Thotapalli Madhu’s
PELLI SANDADI
&
Tanikella Bharani's
"GARDABHANDAM"
Directed by Rathna Shekar
Bookings at in.bookmyshow.com
"Pelli Sandadi" is a laugh-a-minute comedy play that takes the phrase 'wedding bells' to a whole new level of hilarity! Meet Ramakrishna, the master of fibs, who spins a tale about being married to appease his suspicious boss. But when the boss decides he's due for a surprise lunch at the 'happy couple's' place, chaos erupts!
Cue Ramakrishna's trusty sidekick, Ranga, who jumps into action with all the subtlety of a bull in a china shop. And just when you think things can't get crazier, enter Natraj, the over-enthusiastic theater actor, ready to steal the spotlight at any moment!
With Ramakrishna's sisters thrown into the mix, this comedy of errors is a recipe for non-stop laughter. Will Ramakrishna, the accidental bridegroom, pull off the performance of a lifetime?
GARDABHANDAM
Written by eminent playwright, actor, director Shri Tanikella Bharani garu, Gardabhandam ( Donkey’s egg) is a rib tickling play that talks about inherited political power. The play is mix of fictional mythology and contemporary social issues. Come grab your seats and enjoy the funtastic satire.
Cover up talks about Women's bodies and external oppressive forces like Patriarchy, capitalism and casteism controlling those bodies.
While we celebrate the New Year with fervor and gaiety, let's celebrate the cinema of Hollywood's most elegant film director, Ernst Lubtisch's films.
Ernst Lubitsch (/ˈluːbɪtʃ/; January 29, 1892 – November 30, 1947) was a German-born film director, producer, writer, and actor. His urbane comedies of manners gave him the reputation of being Hollywood's most elegant and sophisticated director; as his prestige grew, his films were promoted as having "the Lubitsch touch". Among his best known works are Trouble in Paradise (1932), Design for Living (1933), Ninotchka (1939), The Shop Around the Corner (1940), To Be or Not to Be (1942) and Heaven Can Wait (1943).
He was nominated for the Academy Award for Best Director three times for The Patriot (1928), The Love Parade (1929), and Heaven Can Wait (1943). In 1946, he received an Honorary Academy Award for his distinguished contributions to the art of the motion picture.
Film Title: TO BE OR NOT TO BE | 1942 | 99 Mins | US | English Language with English Subtitles
About the film: To Be or Not to Be is a 1942 American comedy film directed by Ernst Lubitsch, starring Carole Lombard and Jack Benny, and featuring Robert Stack, Felix Bressart, Lionel Atwill, Stanley Ridges, and Sig Ruman. The plot concerns a troupe of actors in Nazi-occupied Warsaw who use their abilities to disguise and act to fool the occupying troops. It was adapted by Lubitsch (uncredited) and Edwin Justus Mayer from the story by Melchior Lengyel. The film was released one month after actress Carole Lombard was killed in an airplane crash. In 1996, it was selected for preservation in the United States National Film Registry by the Library of Congress as being "culturally, historically, or aesthetically significant."
SCREENING FOLLOWED BY DISCUSSION! ALL ARE WELCOME!!! ENTRY IS FREE & OPEN TO ALL!!!
Join us for a special gathering where parents of incredible children with autism come together to share stories, challenges, and triumphs. This safe and supportive space is designed to foster a sense of community, understanding, and empowerment.
👥 Who Should Attend: Parents, caregivers, and families of children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) are invited to join this unique meetup. Whether you're navigating the early stages of diagnosis or have years of experience, this event is for you.
🌈 What to Expect:
Sharing Stories: Connect with others who understand the journey you're on. Share your experiences, joys, and challenges in a compassionate and non-judgmental environment.
Expert Insights: We'll have experienced parents, including experienced professionals in the field of autism, to provide valuable insights and answer your questions.
Supportive Discussions: Engage in open discussions where you can seek advice, offer support, and exchange strategies with fellow parents who have faced similar situations.
Networking: Build a network of support by connecting with parents who share common experiences. You never know the impact your story might have on someone else.
Interactive Activities: Participate in activities designed to promote relaxation, mindfulness, and a sense of community. Let's celebrate the uniqueness and strengths of our children together.
🎭 Born and raised amidst the rich culture of Hyderabad, our director now calls Kansas,United states home but always dreamt of showcasing his crime comedy masterpiece at Lamakhan. This is a dream fulfilled, a momentous occasion to share the laughter, thrill, and uniqueness of his creation with the world.
🌐 "The Gentlemen's Club" is a hybrid genre of film where suspense meets fiction. The director has woven a tale that transcends borders, bringing together a team of individuals from varied races, all contributing to the brilliance on screen.
🤝 Join us in this celebration of creativity and unity. Step into a world where crime meets comedy, and art knows no boundaries. Mark your calendars for a promising movie trailer at Lamakhan.
You can find more about our film at our official film instagram handle : https://www.instagram.com/thegentlemensclub2023?igsh=anE4cHoxbTd1NmVz
KissaGo presents
*Banerjee Babu*
What do you yearn the most in life? A good car? A big house? A big fat salary? Or just the small things in life which are so simple yet so extraordinary...things that take up the most room in our hearts.. like a simple talk with your best friend.. a nap in your mother’s lap.. something..?
How far would you go to get the simple things you love in life? Like a smile, a handshake, a hug.
Banerjee Babu tries his best for the same and in a simple turn of events, he takes us on a ride so emotional that you would think twice before taking those simple things for granted.
Experience joy, lies, betrayal, faith, empathy and love with us.
*Written by* - Avinash Matta
*Directed by*- Jay Jha
*Actors* -
Sreehari Ajith, Snigdha Bawa
*Music* -
Anoop Mohandas
Allies to the Queer community are encouraged to join us at the event.
This event is Organized by Queer Nilayam, Visit us at our Instagram: @queernilayam
Queer Nilayam emerged in 2021 as a support collective in Hyderabad, India, dedicated to the LGBTQIA+ and Queer community. It provides an inclusive space where members actively contribute to fostering social connections and a sense of belonging for queer individuals. Our core mission is to advocate for an egalitarian society, free from inequality and discrimination.
Over time, Queer Nilayam has evolved into an independent organization offering diverse forms of assistance to the LGBTQIA+ community in Hyderabad. Despite lacking funding, we provide support in areas such as general health, mental well-being, accommodations, employment opportunities, events, and support gatherings.
As a distinguished Professor at the University of Delaware and holder of a PhD in International Relations and Islamic Philosophy from Georgetown University, Dr. Khan, the inaugural Director of the Islamic Studies program at the University of Delaware, brings profound expertise.
Join us on Sunday, January 21, 2024, at Lamakaan, Hyderabad, starting at 4 PM. Don't miss this opportunity to gain profound insights into contemporary global dynamics and West Asian affairs. Save the date for this intellectually enriching event.
Master the art of blouse making in a day"
Entry Free
Contact 6281412889
For registrations
While we celebrate the New Year with fervor and gaiety, let's celebrate the cinema of Hollywood's most elegant film director, Ernst Lubtisch's films.
Ernst Lubitsch (/ˈluːbɪtʃ/; January 29, 1892 – November 30, 1947) was a German-born film director, producer, writer, and actor. His urbane comedies of manners gave him the reputation of being Hollywood's most elegant and sophisticated director; as his prestige grew, his films were promoted as having "the Lubitsch touch". Among his best known works are Trouble in Paradise (1932), Design for Living (1933), Ninotchka (1939), The Shop Around the Corner (1940), To Be or Not to Be (1942) and Heaven Can Wait (1943).
He was nominated for the Academy Award for Best Director three times for The Patriot (1928), The Love Parade (1929), and Heaven Can Wait (1943). In 1946, he received an Honorary Academy Award for his distinguished contributions to the art of the motion picture.
Film Title: HEAVEN CAN WAIT | 1943 | 112 Mins | US | English Language with English Subtitles
About the film: Heaven Can Wait is a 1943 Technicolor American supernatural comedy film produced and directed by Ernst Lubitsch. The screenplay was by Samson Raphaelson based on the play Birthday by Ladislaus Bus-Fekete. The music score was by Alfred Newman and the cinematography by Edward Cronjager.
The film tells the story of a man who has to prove he belongs in Hell by telling his life story. It stars Gene Tierney, Don Ameche, and Charles Coburn.
SCREENING FOLLOWED BY DISCUSSION! ALL ARE WELCOME!!! ENTRY IS FREE & OPEN TO ALL!!!
ख्याति प्राप्त साहित्यकार डॉ. जयन्ती प्रसाद नौटियाल के साथ
**********************************************
विश्व के सर्वाधिक बहुमुखी प्रतिभा सम्पन्न व्यक्ति, जिनका बायोडाटा (Resume) विश्व में सबसे वृहद एवं अद्वितीय है। जो 7 खण्डों में, 4200 से अधिक पृष्ठों में प्रकाशित है। जिसमें उनकी 5030 उपलब्धियां दर्ज हैं।
जिन्होंने एम ए (हिन्दी), एम ए (अँग्रेजी) पी एच डी, डी.लिट, एम बी ए, एल एल बी सहित 81 डिग्री/डिप्लोमा और सर्टिफिकेट कोर्स किए हैं। जिन्होंने 81 पुस्तकों के लेखन में योगदान दिया है, जिनकी अधिकांश पुस्तकें विश्वविद्यालयों में पाठ्य पुस्तक व संदर्भ पुस्तकों के रूप में चल रही हैं। जिन्होंने हिंदी साहित्य को 1800 से अधिक प्रकाशित रचनाओं से समृद्ध किया है। जिन्हें हिंदी भाषा और साहित्य के लिए 112 अवॉर्ड, सम्मान और पुरस्कार मिल चुके हैं। जिनके सेवा कार्यों और शोध के लिए 225 प्रशंसा पत्र प्राप्त हुए हैं। राष्ट्र की 140 शीर्ष समितियों में जिन्होंने प्रतिनिधित्व किया है। शोध के क्षेत्र में भी जिनका उल्लेखनीय योगदान है, जिन्होंने 165 शोध कार्यों को संपन्न किया है। जिन्होंने राष्ट्रीय एवं अन्तर्राष्ट्रीय सम्मेलनों में 686 व्याख्यान दिए हैं। जिन्होंने 150 प्रकार के बौद्धिक कार्यों में योगदान दिया है। जिन्हें 73 प्रकार के व्यवसायों/पदों पर कार्य करने का अनुभव है। जिनके विवरण 911 से अधिक वेबसाइटों पर उपलब्ध हैं। प्रिंट मीडिया और इलेक्ट्रॉनिक मीडिया में भी जिन्हें स्थान मिला है।
हिंदी विकिपीडिया,अंग्रेजी विकिटिया जैसे अन्य पोर्टलों पर जिनके विवरण उपलब्ध हैं। ऐसे बहुआयामी व्यक्तित्व के धनी, विनम्र और मिलनसार विद्वान साहित्यकार डॉ. जयन्ती प्रसाद नौटियाल जी के सम्मान में यह विशेष परिसंवाद कार्यक्रम आयोजित किया जा रहा है।
इसके साक्षी बनने हेतु आप सभी साहित्य प्रेमी मित्र और सदस्य गण सादर आमंत्रित हैं।
निवेदक,
सरिता सुराणा एवं समस्त सूत्रधार साहित्यिक परिवार
हैदराबाद
Join us for the "Hyderabad Climate Justice Accord," a crucial event hosted by the 'Justice Movement of India' and 'Climate Front Hyderabad.' This collaborative initiative aims to address and solve urgent environmental challenges in our city.
The event will kick off with a thorough discussion on Hyderabad's most pressing environmental issues, followed by proposing holistic solutions in three key areas:
1. Personal Solutions: Actionable steps for individuals to integrate into their daily lives for environmental sustainability.
2. Organizational/Industrial Solutions: Tailored measures for industries to align their operations with environmental conservation.
3. Governmental Solutions: Recommendations for authorities to implement policies addressing root causes and promoting long-term sustainability.
Our goal is not only to identify challenges but to collectively develop a roadmap for a sustainable and climate-resilient future for Hyderabad. The event fosters collaboration across personal, industrial, and governmental levels, striving to be a catalyst for positive change and a model for effective environmental stewardship.
Presentation/dialogue will be in English and Telugu.
Visit our website: https://justicemovementofindia.org/
Best regards,
Akarsh Sriramoju - Educational Psychologist,
National Organizer,
Justice Movement of India
Ruchith Asha Kamal- Climate Activist
Deputy Director
Climate Front India
A support circle to have a conversation about the intersectionality and erasure of caste and neurodivergence in today's context
28th January 2024 from 4.00 pm to 6.00 pm
The Situation
Unprecedented violence between communities in Manipur for nine months with no sign of resolution
The Plan
Provide a Platform for Citizens from across India to understand the scale of violence and undertake Campaigns to demand resolution of the festering problem.
Proposed Actions during the 2 Hour Programs on Sunday 28th January 2024
Decentralised Events: In as many cities/ towns / villages as possible
Proposed Activities
Multi Faith Prayers for Peace
Meditation / Reflection
Poetry / Singing
Sign Online / Off Line Petitions
Light a Lamp for Manipur:
Placards
To share Ground Realities- Demand Action from Authorities- Appeals for Peace.
Any other activities decided by the organisers barring speeches
Events Planned
Hyderabad: Lamakaan- Off Road No. 1, Opp. GVK Mall, Banjara Hills, Hyderabad- T.S.
Anchor Organisation: COVA- 81473 57062, Email: covanetwork@gmail.com
Appeal to Organise Events in your City / Town / Village
Request all Institutions and Groups across India to organise Events in solidarity with Manipur
For Details please contact: covanetwork@gmail.com or call: 81473 57062
ALL ARE WELCOME
Kissago presents 2 short plays.
1. Honeymoon Hungama - A Telugu short play
Synopsis:
Newlyweds Manu and Krishna embark on their dream honeymoon, booking a supposedly luxurious hotel. However, their romantic escapade takes an unexpected turn when every attempt to get close is hilariously thwarted by a parade of eccentric hotel staff and peculiar guests.
2. Hawalat
"Hawalalat" Written By Sarveshwar Dayal Saxena, revolves around the story of three youth who have no place since nobody was ready to offer them the shelter and they thought it proper to have the same in a police lock-up. For this they approached a police cop as criminals. In the beginning the cop is not ready to believe in them and asks them to establish their credentials by demonstrating their expertise and past accomplishments in the word of crime.
H-Pop: The Secretive World of Hindutva Pop Stars by Kunal Purohit.
Can a song trigger a murder?
Can a poem spark a riot?
Can a book divide people?
Away from the gaze of mainstream urban media, across India's dusty, sleepy towns, a brand of popular culture is quietly seizing the imagination of millions on the internet and off it. From catchy
songs with acerbic lyrics to poetry recited in kavi sammelans to social media influencers shaping opinions with their brand of ‘breaking news’ to books rescripting historical events, ‘Hindutva Pop’ or H-Pop is steadily creating societal acceptability for Hindutva’s core beliefs. By cleverly inserting Hindutva into popular culture, H-Pop normalizes Islamophobia, demonizes minorities, and vilifies its critics each day without ever making headlines.
What makes H-pop so popular? Who are its stars and its audience? Who is pouring in the money, the effort and the resources to produce and broadcast it? What is its impact on the BJP and Prime
Minister Modi’s popularity? And what kind of an India is it trying to create?
These are some questions that award-winning independent journalist Kunal Purohit explores in this riveting investigative book as he travels through India, profiling some of H-Pop’s most prolific
and popular creators—its stars and celebrities. He interrogates whether the creators are driven by ideology or commerce and what motivates the audience to consume their daily dose of bigotry. In
doing so, Purohit uncovers the frightening face of a New India that is united by hate and divided by art.
—————————————————————————————————
About the Author:
Kunal Purohit is an award-winning independent journalist, documentary filmmaker and podcast creator. Over the past two decades, Kunal has written on issues of development, politics, and inequality while focussing more recently on hate crimes and the rise of Hindu nationalism. He is the recipient of the Ramnath Goenka Award for Excellence in Civic Journalism (2012), the Statesman Award for Rural Reporting (2014) and the UNFPA-Laadli Media Award for Gender Sensitive Reporting (2014 and 2019). Kunal has an MSc in Development Studies from the School of Oriental and African Studies (SOAS) University of London as a Felix Scholar and a Bachelor’s in Mass Media from Mumbai University. His notable works include ‘Vanished: Inside India’s Bermuda Triangle’ (2022), an Audible Original nonfiction podcast, and ‘The Children of Nowhere’ (2023), a documentary film. He has written for Al Jazeera, ProPublica, The Times of India, Foreign Policy, Hindustan Times, South China Morning Post, Deutsche Welle and The Wire, among others.
About the Discussant:
Yunus Lasania is currently an independent journalist and podcast creator. Yunus started his career with The New Indian Express and The Hindu in Hyderabad. He became Telangana and Andhra Correspondent for the Hindustan Times-owned publication Mint. He also served as the City Editor of Siasat.com, the online English edition of the popular Urdu daily. Recently, he was associated with The News Minute as their Telangana and Andhra Pradesh Bureau Chief. Also one of the city’s foremost heritage connoisseurs and personalities, he showcases the city’s history and landmarks for locals and non-locals alike through heritage walks.
ALL ARE WELCOME!
While we celebrate the New Year with fervor and gaiety, let's celebrate the cinema of Hollywood's most elegant film director, Ernst Lubtisch's films.
Ernst Lubitsch (/ˈluːbɪtʃ/; January 29, 1892 – November 30, 1947) was a German-born film director, producer, writer, and actor. His urbane comedies of manners gave him the reputation of being Hollywood's most elegant and sophisticated director; as his prestige grew, his films were promoted as having "the Lubitsch touch". Among his best known works are Trouble in Paradise (1932), Design for Living (1933), Ninotchka (1939), The Shop Around the Corner (1940), To Be or Not to Be (1942) and Heaven Can Wait (1943).
He was nominated for the Academy Award for Best Director three times for The Patriot (1928), The Love Parade (1929), and Heaven Can Wait (1943). In 1946, he received an Honorary Academy Award for his distinguished contributions to the art of the motion picture.
Film Title: NINOTCHKA | 1939 | 90 Mins | US | English Language with English Subtitles
About the film: Ninotchka is a 1939 American romantic comedy movie directed by Ernst Lubitsch and starring Greta Garbo, Melvyn Douglas, Ina Claire, Felix Bressart, Bela Lugosi, and Gregory Gaye. Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer distributed it, and was nominated for 4 Academy Awards in 1940. It was remade as Silk Stockings in 1957.
SCREENING FOLLOWED BY DISCUSSION! ALL ARE WELCOME!!! ENTRY IS FREE & OPEN TO ALL!!!
The first part will be screened on 1st Feb 2024 and Part 2 will be screened on 15th Feb 2024 at 7 pm.
ALL ARE WELCOME!