Created in collaboration with artisan designer Mubin Khatri and his team in Dhamadka, Kutch, the collection brings together heritage craftsmanship and modern design sensibilities across 19 garments. Developed over eight months, the line reinterprets traditional Ajrakh through experimental print placements, contemporary silhouettes, and innovative techniques.

Crafted in breathable cotton and cotton twill, the collection incorporates natural dyes and techniques such as pothai, where fabric is hand-painted using natural colours. Moving beyond conventional block-printing methods, the collection experiments with outlines and filler blocks independently to create fresher, more versatile patterns. It also introduces Ajrakh on twill cotton denim, offering a modern take on the traditional craft.

Speaking about the launch, Manorath Dhillon, who has worked extensively with Indian Crafts and is currently heading Okhai, said, “Ajrakh is a craft deeply rooted in history and community. Through this collection, we wanted to explore how it can evolve for contemporary wardrobes while preserving its authenticity.”

Rooted in sustainability, the collection uses natural fabrics and dyes, while thoughtfully reworking existing blocks to minimise waste. Through Ajrakh, Okhai continues its commitment to preserving Indian crafts while making them relevant for today’s consumers.

The collection is now available pan-India exclusively on Okhai’s website: www.okhai.org.

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The award will be conferred upon Gunshekar at a special ceremony to be held on Sunday, November 16th at 7:00 pm at Shreeram Lagoo Rang-Avkash, Hirabaugh Chowk, Tilak Road. The award will be presented by Dr. Abhilash Pillai, who will also deliver the keynote address on the topic “Reimagining the Ring: The Indian Circus Between Tradition, Theatre, and the Future.” This information was shared by Maharashtra Cultural Centre Secretary Rajesh Deshmukh.

Now in its 18th year, the Tanveer Natyadharmi Award is presented annually to young theatre artistes who have made outstanding contributions to the field. The award was instituted in 2004 by Dr. Shreeram Lagoo and Deepa Lagoo in memory of their son Tanveer.

About Dushyanth Gunshekar

With a background in forensic auditing, Dushyanth Gunshekar founded his own theatre company at the age of 23, driven by a passion for the art form that began in school under the guidance of theatre professionals from Koothu-P-Pattarai and Magic Lantern. Inspired by his teachers and mentors, he established Crea-Shakthi in 2012 to take theatre to more young people and create sustainable livelihoods for theatre artistes.

Over the past 13 years, Crea-Shakthi has evolved into a dynamic repertory company that performs original plays in both Tamil and English, often addressing social issues through the lens of the younger generation. The group has collaborated with noted theatre personalities, including Mahesh Dattani, Zarin Shihab, and Abishek Kumar.

Crea-Shakthi has promoted more than 800 artistes, supported their creative work, and staged over 90 plays and 1,700 performances across India and abroad, with a strong presence in Tamil Nadu.

To engage younger audiences and sustain its artistes, the group has developed and implemented a Theatre-in-Education curriculum across both private and public schools in Tamil Nadu. This program helps students develop essential life skills such as communication, collaboration, and critical thinking.

All Crea-Shakthi trainers are full-time theatre professionals who receive salaries with Provident Fund (PF) and medical benefits made possible by an innovative financial model created by the company’s founders. From working with one school in 2012, Crea-Shakthi now partners with over 140 schools and reaches more than 100,000 students in 2025.

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The session is part of the Foundation Project implemented by IFA under its Archives and Museums programme with Zapurza Museum of Art and Culture, coordinated by Kohinoor Darda, cognitive neuroscientist, neuro-aesthetician, performing artist, and founder of ARISA Foundation. The project examines Pune’s artistic legacy through exhibitions, research, and public programmes.

Highlights from the discussion

“Artists often work in pockets, but to bring them together and create synergy, we need spaces like this museum,” observed Shilpa Joglekar, highlighting the importance of community in Pune’s art world. The discussion also situated women’s work within the broader legacy of the city — while Pune has long been celebrated for its contributions to literary arts and theatre, the voices and practices of visual artists have remained underrepresented. This panel sought to redress that imbalance by foregrounding women’s contributions.

The panel also debated the role of social media in shaping art viewership. While acknowledging its reach, the artists cautioned against its superficiality.

 “Social media allows you to put your process out there, but it can also trivialise the artwork. Looking at art requires time, attention, and presence,” said Gayatri Tambe Deshpande.
 “Many viewers today see exhibitions as colourful backdrops for Instagram reels, without really engaging with the work,” added Vaishali Oak.

The conversation expanded to accessibility in the arts, underlining the need to take art beyond galleries.
 “The white cube can feel alienating. Bringing art into public spaces makes it accessible to everyone, creating a new visual culture,” noted Shilpa Joglekar.

The panel concluded with reflections on technology and tradition. The artists agreed that while tools like AI can support artistic processes, they cannot replace the role of the artist.
 “AI is just another medium. It can save time and offer possibilities, but art still comes from lived experience and human connection,” said Gayatri Tambe Deshpande.

The discussion took place alongside the exhibition Pune’s Artistic Legacy Part 3: Women Artists of Pune, on view at Zapurza Museum of Art and Culture until 10 September 2025. The exhibition features ceramics, textiles, paintings, illustrations, and more — led by themes of memory, nature, material, and movement — and invites audiences to read the city’s art history through women’s practices.

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PUNE: The Arya Sangeet Prasarak Mandal has announced the lineup of artists for the 70th Sawai Gandharva Bhimsen Mahotsav to be held at the Maharashtra Mandal Krida Sankul, Mukund Nagar, Pune, from Wednesday 18th December to Sunday, 22nd December 2024. This milestone year of the Mahotsav, a cherished tradition in Indian classical music, promises an enriching experience of musical heritage. The announcement was made by the Executive President of Arya Sangeet Prasarak Mandal, Shrinivas Joshi, during a press conference held in the city today. Joining Shrinivas Joshi at the press conference were Mukund Sangoram- Secretary, Arya Sangeet Prasarak Mandal, and Shilpa Joshi- Trustee, Arya Sangeet Prasarak Mandal, Shubhada Mulgund, Anand Bhate, Dr. Prabhakar Deshpande and Milind Deshpande. 

Sharing insights about the Mahotsav, Shrinivas Joshi said, “The Mahotsav, initiated by my father, Bharat Ratna Pt. Bhimsen Joshi in honor of his guru Sawai Gandharva, has provided a platform for countless stalwarts to showcase their art. The overwhelming love of connoisseurs and audiences has made it a benchmark for Indian classical music. As the Mahotsav enters its 70th year, we continue our tradition of promoting promising young talent alongside eminent artists. This balance ensures the rich legacy of Indian classical music thrives for future generations.”

The Artist Lineup for the 70th Sawai Gandharva Bhimsen Mahotsav is as follows-

Day 1 (Wednesday, 18th December – 3 pm to 10 pm)

The Mahotsav opens with a soulful shehnai recital by Dr. S. Ballesh, a disciple of Bharat Ratna Ustad Bismillah Khan, accompanied by his son Dr. Krishna Ballesh. This will be followed by a vocal performance by Shashwati Chavan-Zurunge, a disciple of Ustad Mubarak Ali Khan and Sudhakar Chavan. Ram Deshpande, an eminent vocalist from the Agra-Jaipur gharana, will present the next session. Dr. L. Subramaniam, a violin maestro in the Carnatic tradition, will enchant the audience with his artistry. The day concludes with a vocal recital by Pt. Ajay Chakrabarty, an acclaimed exponent of the Patiala gharana.

Day 2 (Thursday 19th December- 4 pm to 10 pm)

Krishna Bongane and Nagesh Adgaonkar, disciples of Ustad Rashid Khan, will present a duet to start the second day. Sangeeta Katti-Kulkarni, a prominent vocalist trained by Basavaraj Rajguru, will perform next. Post this, renowned sitarist Anupama Bhagwat, a disciple of Bimalendu Mukherjee, will take the stage. The evening will conclude with a performance by acclaimed vocalist Pt. Venkatesh Kumar.

Day 3 (Friday 20th December – 4 pm to 10 pm)

The third day will open with the Mohini Music Ensemble, featuring Sahana Banerjee (Sitar), Ruchira Kedar (Vocals), Savani Talwalkar (Tabla), Anuja Borude-Shinde (Pakhavaj), and Aditi Garade (Harmonium). Viraj Joshi, grandson of Bharat Ratna Pt. Bhimsen Joshi will present a vocal recital. The mother-son duo of Kaushiki Chakrabarty, exponents of the Patiala Gharana, and Rishit Desikan will perform next. Purbayan Chatterjee, a celebrated sitar virtuoso, will conclude the evening.

Day 4 (Saturday 21st December- 4 pm to Midnight)

The day begins with a vocal recital by Saurabh Kadgaonkar, a disciple of Raghunandan Panshikar. This will be followed by a sarod jugalbandi by Ayaan Ali Bangash and Amaan Ali Bangash, the seventh-generation torchbearers of the Bangash Gharana. Anand Bhate, a disciple of Pt. Bhimsen Joshi will present a vocal performance. Rakesh Chaurasia, a bansuri maestro trained by Pt. Hariprasad Chaurasia, will enthrall the audience. The evening will feature a vocal performance by Arati Ankalikar-Tikekar and conclude with a recital by Pt. Ulhas Kashalkar.

Day 5 (Sunday 22nd December -Noon to 10 pm)

The final day opens with a vocal recital by Sanjeev Abhyankar, an eminent artist from the Mewati gharana. A Carnatic duet by Shashank Subramanyam (Flute) and R. Kumaresh (Violin) will follow. Milind Chittal, a disciple of Pt. Firoz Dastur will present a vocal performance. Renowned artist-composer Adnan Sami will display his classical piano collection. Acclaimed Bharatanatyam dancer and actor Shobana will present a captivating dance performance. The Mahotsav will conclude with a tribute to the Swaryogini Padma Vibhushan Dr. Prabha Atre through a group performance by her disciples: Arati Thakur Kundalkar, Atindra Sarvadikar, Chetana Pathak, and Ashwini Modak.

First-time performers at the Mahotsav are Shashwati Chavan- Zurunge, Krishna Bongane, Nagesh Adgaonkar, Anupama Bhagwat, Sahana Banerjee, Savani Talwalkar, Anuja Borude-Shinde, Aditi Garade, Rishit Desikan, Saurabh Kadgaonkar, Adnan Sami, Arati Thakur Kundalkar, Atindra Sarvadikar, Chetana Pathak, and Ashwini Modak.

The 70th Sawai Gandharva Bhimsen Festival is supported by esteemed sponsors such as Kalyani Group, Kirloskar, Nanded City, P. N. Gadgil & Sons, Kele Realtors, Ranjekar Realty, Lokmanya Multipurpose Co-operative Society, Suhana, and Asha Publicity.

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The inaugural edition will have the Classical Sarod Recital of Sarang Kulkarni, who is the recipient of the Ustaad Bismillah Khan Yuva Puraskar from the Sangeet Natak Academy. Followed by the performance of Sanika Kulkarni (Vocal). Sarang Kulkarni’s felicitation would be done at the hands of Taalyogi Pandit Suresh Talwalkar on the occasion.

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DAKAR, SENEGAL: The Basketball Africa League (BAL) (BAL.NBA.com) today announced the lineup of artists and entertainers who will headline the entertainment acts at the Dakar Arena when the BAL Sahara Conference group phase tips off on May 4 in Dakar, Senegal. The list of entertainers includes Daara J Family, Mia Guissé, VJ, DJ Beenouch, and DJ Dollar among others.

Fan Zone

The Fan Zone, situated at the Dakar Arena parking lot, will be open to fans on game days from 2:00 p.m. to 9.30 p.m. and during weekends from 12:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. GMT.  The Fan Zone will offer a range of activities for both the young and adults, including 3-on-3 basketball games, food trucks, a photo booth, and musical performances by Afroelektra.

In-Arena Entertainment

The Sahara Conference fan in-arena experience will feature pre-game and halftime performances by music artists, dancers, drummers, and dunk teams. Fans can expect the biggest Senegalese artists on stage and curated music experience from DJs such as DJ Dollar, DJ Beenouch, and DJ Chanel. Starting May 4, every game will showcase diverse performers catering to all age groups; Daara J Family, VJ, New Generation crew, l’Equipe Sacrée, and DJ Dollar will perform during the opening weekend.  Dip Doundou Guiss and Jeeba will close the conference with halftime performances during the closing weekend of May 11-12, 2024.

Tickets are now on sale at BAL.NBA.com and Teewtickets (https://apo-opa.co/4a1S08T). Single-game tickets start at 2500 XOF.  Fans can save up to 35% off single-game ticket prices for group packages by emailing BalTickets@thebal.com, and up to 20% off tournament pass tickets during the Sahara conference group phase by selecting two, four, or all games.  Fans who purchase tickets will also have free access to the BAL Fan Zone at the arena in each market. 

ENTERTAINMENT SCHEDULE:

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PUNE: Cycle Pure Agarbathi, India’s largest agarbathi manufacturer, added a touch of brilliance to the skies by unveiling a colossal 111-feet agarbathi, as a tribute to the rich tradition of local craftsmanship. This awe-inspiring event unfolded simultaneously across three culturally vibrant places – Mysuru, Maharashtra, and Goa, marking a heartfelt commitment to support and celebrate diverse artisanal heritage.

Ms. Saraswathi, the mother of renowned sculptor Arun Yogiraj, lit the agarbatti in the presence of esteemed dignitaries Sri. Pratap Simha, MP, Mysore-Kodagu, and Sri. T. S. Srivatsa, MLA, Krishnaraja.  The Ranga family, including Mr. Guru, Mr. Kiran Ranga, Mr. Vishnu Ranga, Mr. Anirudh Ranga, and Mr. Nikhil Ranga, graced the occasion to showcase the brand’s commitment to preserving our heritage and traditional art form. In Maharashtra, Honourable Chief Minister Sri. Eknath Sambhaji Shinde, celebrated the state’s rich craftsmanship, while in Goa, Honourable Chief Minister Sri. Pramod Sawant emphasized preserving and promoting the region’s unique artistic expressions.

Cycle Pure Agarbathi’s 111-foot-tall masterpiece is a testament to modern technology that meets traditional art forms; it is a profound homage to the rich cultural heritage of Mysuru’s artisans. This massive agarbathi was crafted over 23 days with a dedicated team of 18 skilled individuals, using materials such as specially handpicked auspicious Dashanga: Honey, Konneri Gedde, Ghee, Sandal Wood Powder, Guggula, Agaru, Sambrani, Devadaru, Loban and White Mustard ( bili Sasive) along with Charcoal, Jigat and Jaggery.  The manufacturing process incorporates a unique technology devised by the NRRS specialist team.

Expressing her gratitude, Saraswathi said, “Generations of our family have been dedicated to the arts, and it’s truly heartening to see Cycle Pure Agarbathi taking a proactive role in supporting and acknowledging our work. This recognition goes beyond a simple honor; it signifies a deep commitment that holds immense value, not only for our family but for the entire artistic community. This support is particularly meaningful for artists in Mysuru, where our cultural contributions thrive, making it an invaluable gesture towards the broader creative landscape.“

During the event, Guru, Chairman of NR Group said, “As a brand rooted in spirituality, our ongoing commitment is to support the artist’s community. We aim to be a source of hope in people’s lives, and this 111-feet agarbatti serves as a symbol of that commitment, spreading happiness through its fragrance to the world of craftsmanship.”

Speaking on this occasion, Sri Pratap Simha, MP, Mysore-Kodagu said, “Being part of this special occasion, honoring the talented artisans shaping our artistic landscape, is indeed an honor. These individuals are the custodians of our cultural identity. Supporting them, especially hailing from Mysuru, is both a privilege and a responsibility. It’s gratifying to contribute to the preservation of our cultural heritage by recognizing and uplifting the dedicated artisans who play a crucial role in shaping our cultural narrative.”

Known as Akhand Jyothi, with a unique fragrance called PARAMPARA crafted by the esteemed Mr. Ranga Rao and his family, the agarbatti adds a touch of tradition and nostalgia, making it the most cherished fragrance. This endeavor symbolizes Cycle Pure Agarbathi’s commitment to preserving and showcasing the essence of cultural legacy.

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The exhibition, which is being held at the Mini Bavaria Motors Showroom in Pune on December 10, 2023, between 6 pm and 8 pm, aims to support artists and projects in the area of health, education, and community development. Proceeds from the event will go towards these causes, making it a unique platform that combines art and social responsibility.

Ravi Pittie, Director of Agni Solar Systems Pvt Ltd, praised the artists for their creativity and imagination in turning a difficult medium into a work of art. He believes that these art pieces would be perfect for corporate offices and industries as a reminder to use green energy for sustainable growth.

Secure Giving, the event-creation wing of Concern India Foundation, has organized a special viewing of the exhibition. Hyacinth D’Costa, Branch Manager of Secure Giving Pune, said that the organization has a wealth of experience in organizing high-quality, high-end events that serve as fundraising platforms for charities. She added that Secure Giving leverages its expertise and network to create, curate, and execute events for organizations based on their specific requirements and business goals.

Agni Solar Systems Pvt Ltd is a pioneering solar company that has been in the industry since 1993. The company’s vision is to develop the use of solar technologies to positively impact the lives of all sections of society and play its part in a greener future. The company is profit-driven but not at the cost of sustainable development.

Solar Canvas is a unique art exhibition that showcases creativity and sustainability. It is a platform that promotes social responsibility and supports artists and projects in health, education, and community development. The exhibition is a must-see for anyone interested in art, sustainability, and social responsibility.

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The festival’s line-up features diverse dance forms, from a solo performance that takes a contemporary stance on the ancient classic of Sophocles’ Antigone to a duet between Bharatanatyam and Kuchipudi. Day 1 will feature “Antigone, Interrupted” by Joan Cleville, reimagining Sophocles’ Antigone in a mesmerizing solo performance that explores the strength and vulnerability of the body as a tool for resistance and civil disobedience.

Day 1: “Antigone, Interrupted” by Joan Cleville, reimagines Sophocles’ Antigone in a mesmerizing solo performance that explores the strength and vulnerability of the body as a tool for resistance and civil disobedience.

Day 2: will showcase “Manodarpan” by Odissi exponent Sharmila Biswas and troupe, which showcases captivating stories portraying all the human weaknesses and strengths, each expressing a certain emotion and its intricacies. This will be followed by the duet “Converse,” seamlessly blending Kuchipudi and Bharatanatyam with Amrita Lahiri and Pavitra Bhat respectively.

Day 3: will feature a performance by danseuse Mahati Kannan, the grand-niece of noted Bharatanatyam exponent Padma Subrahmanyam. Born into a family of musicians and dancers, Kannan is an excellent artist in her own right. We will also witness Bharatanatyam duo Parvathy Menon and Shijith Nambiar in “Dhi- Our Thoughts,” a performance that explores the inner psyche as -“Dhi is a manifestation of our thoughts. Every thought born in one’s mind starts to slowly begin its journey to create a magical world.”

The Pravaha dance festival promises an exclusive look at select traditional and contemporary dance choreographies. The festival will take place at the Experimental Theatre and Tata Theatre at NCPA, Mumbai, with tickets priced at Rs. 450 for members and Rs. 500 for non-members on December 6, Rs. 450, 270, and 180 for members and Rs. 500, 300, and 200 for non-members on December 7, and Rs. 360 and 270 for members and Rs. 400 and 300 for non-members on December 8.

When: December 6^th – December 8^th

Venue: Experimental Theatre and Tata Theatre at NCPA, Mumbai

Price: Members

Rs 450 (6^th Dec), Rs 450, 270 & 180 (7^th Dec) and Rs. 360 & 270 (8^th Dec)

Price: Non-Member Price

Rs. 500 (6^th Dec), Rs. 500, 300 & 200 (7^th Dec) and Rs. 400 & 300 (8^th Dec)

Time: 7 p.m. on December 6^th and 6:30 pm on December 7^th and 8^th

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The festival’s first day will commence with renowned music composer Niladri Kumar’s performance accompanied by Satyajeet Talwalkar on Tabla. The second session will include Vidushi Ashwini Bhide-Deshpande’s soulful performance, accompanied by Bharat Kamat on Tabla and Suyog Kundalkar on Harmonium.

The second day of the Mitra Mahotsav will see Pandit Shivkumar Sharma’s disciple; Shantanu Gokhale’s performance on Santoor accompanied by Satyajeet Talwalkar on Tabla. The festival will conclude with a well-known vocalist; Pandit Venkatesh Kumar’s renditions accompanied by Bharat Kamat on Tabla and Suyog Kundalkar on Harmonium.

Mitra Foundation felicitates the Gurus for their noteworthy contributions in music. Like every year, this honor will be bestowed upon veteran Tabla player; Pt. Suresh Samant. Additionally, 10 students who have been fully engaging themselves in learning classical music will be given a scholarship. The award ceremony will take place on the second of the festival, informed Dhananjay Gokhale, President of Mitra Foundation.

This is a ticketed event and the ticket price is just Rs.100/- including performances on both days.

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