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In a path breaking move the Madhya Pradesh has entered into collaboration with BTA (British Association of Physicians of Indian Origin) Training Academy, the UK’s reputed, education training body that offers excellence in educational innovation. The BTA, it is learnt, will draft the academic curriculum and the knowledge will be imparted to the MP government medical staff through its partner hospitals Link Hospital and Sri Aurobindo Institute of Medical Sciences in Gwalior and Indore respectively. This MoU is designed to upskill medical staff in the MP state who will receive top-class education based on the cumulative rich experience of England’s 75-year-old National Health Service (NHS) experience. The NHS is globally recognized as one of the best in the world in the primary, Emergency, and definitive care sectors. Doctors at the BTA who are trained and who have worked in the NHS for several decades will be instrumental in ensuring the best educational model will be created for Indian conditions and appropriate curriculum will be shared with its partner hospitals. In 2005, the World Health Organization published recommendations for actions regarding emergency medical systems in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). In LMICs, it is gauged that by improving pre-hospital and Emergency care, deaths may be reduced by half. According to the World Bank, India is home to just 10% of the world’s registered vehicles yet accounts for 22% of traffic deaths. Indicating an immediate need to strengthen post-crash care.
Will UK’s newly elected Labour MP David Lammy who has assumed office as Foreign Secretary visit India by the end July? Addressing the India Global Conclave in June, Lammy had announced that he shall be in India by July end leaving the audience to read between the lines. Lammy’s indirectly winning prediction has come true. His affinity to India is well known and he does not hesitate to use slogans of Vasudev Kutumbakam in his speeches when he addresses the Indian diaspora. Lammy has fully recognized the power of India, and the strength of the Indian diaspora in the UK thus he makes a special effort to announce his Indian origin. Lammy’s great-grandmother was of Indian origin before the family moved to the Caribbean Islands. An MP since 2000, Lammy held various junior ministerial positions under Tony Blair and Gordon Brown between 2002 and 2010. He believes India is a superpower with a huge integrated market and acknowledges its strengths in various sectors. Lammy is confident that his government will bring the Free Trade Talks to the front burner and hopefully get it signed soon. Even Dr Vikram Doraiswami, High Commissioner of India feels likewise and says that the FTA between India and the UK is among the top items on the list to be completed within 100 days of the new government headed by Modi.
Celebrated author-writer-filmmaker Amish Tripathi, Bollywood star Nawazuddin Siddiqui and actor-producer-author Vani Tripathi Tikoo are meeting in London to participate at the Manoj Ladwa-led Indian Global Forum’s Pathways To A Limitless Future to be held between 24-28 June. The 3rd Culture & Creativity Forum at IGF London will draw leading voices from film & TV, fashion, literature, sports, economy and more. What new pathways for growth can creative innovation unlock? How can culture help organizations diversify their reach? How can we revitalize the global creative economy are some of the topics the brightest minds converging in London will debate, discuss and deliberate. It is learnt that Amish Tripathi while in London will use this opportunity to announce his creative tie-up with Lord Jeffrey Archer, a successful novelist who has written scores of best-sellers like Kane And Abel, Only Time Will Tell, The Prodigal Daughter to name a few. Kane and Abel remains one of the best-selling books in the world, with an estimated 34 million copies sold worldwide. All his novels put together have sold more than 320 million copies worldwide. Tripathi’s best kept secret project with Lord Archer will be unveiled on June 24.
The Pune-based Chitale Bandhu Mithaiwale has chalked up ambitious expansion plans involving an outlay of Rs 260 crore. The third generation Chitale Bandhu is known for making namkeen (especially bhakarwadi) and sweets that Maharashtrians world over swear by. The new thinking among the management is to focus more on sweets and savoury business even if it means competing with the group’s flagship dairy business which has a turnover of Rs 1200 crore. Indraneel Chitale, managing partner, who is spearheading the expansion drive is extremely confident of his gameplan. His confidence stems from the success of the recently launched BingeBar. Here, the strategy was to make quality Chitale products affordable and available to those at the bottom of the pyramid. For instance, average Chitale products are priced around Rs 100 while Bingebar is priced at Rs 10; it will also be available at the groceries and corner shops. This is on-the-go namkeens with the convenience of no spillage or container requirements. Having tested the market, and to feed this rising demand the company is expanding its Ranje plant spread over 17-acre located close to Pune. The current output of the plant which is 30 bars/minute will be raised to 1,000 bars/minute. Besides, Chitale’s are geared up to launch Ready-To-Eat Meals by the end 2024.
This fourth-generation entrepreneur is just 23 years old but is already a global trotter promoting his company’s brand Suhana Masala in over 65 countries. Vishwa Chordia, it is learnt, has chalked up aggressive expansion plans to consolidate his company’s overseas presence. The Pune-based Suhana masala which makes a range of homemade masalas, papads, and pickles among others is investing in a new plant to meet the rising global demand from the Indian diaspora. The company already has five plants. The new plant is fast coming up near Bholi, Satara Road in Maharashtra and is expected to go on stream by end 2025. The 3-lakh square feet plant — part of the 17-acres — is designed to meet international standards. This 3000 MT plant will cater to both domestic and global markets.
The Labour Party leadership is leaving no stone unturned to understand the global connections and faith commitments felt by many among the almost 1.8 million people of Indian heritage in Britain. With general elections likely to be held this year, the party is making all attempts to woo the Indian voters back to its folds and build a pro-India narrative fiercely. The Labour party governed the UK from 1964 to 1970, and 1974 to 1979. In the 1990s, Tony Blair took Labour to the centre as part of his New Labour project which governed under Blair and then Gordon Brown from 1997 to 2010. To re-establish its India connection that was lost to Conservatives in recent times a top Labour party delegation from the UK visited India to strengthen community, political and business ties. The delegation included shadow deputy prime minister Angela Rayner, Navendu Mishra MP and the Indian-origin Vimal Choksi of Tameside Council. The trio met Vice President of India, Jagdeep Dhankhar, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar and Minister of Women Development Smriti Irani. The visit was organised by the Labour Convention of Indian Organisations. They also met social community, religious and business leaders.
Mithun Kamath, founder of the Bengaluru-based Tantalum Academy and Dr Sanjay Gupta, Vice Chancellor of the Gurugram-based World University of Design have joined hands to provide Soft Skill Curriculum for the students of the World University of Design. Perhaps, a first of its kind initiative in the country, this comprehensive curriculum aims to equip students with a diverse set of skills crucial for success in the professional landscape. Soft skills such as effective communication, teamwork, adaptability, and problem-solving will be integrated into the academic framework, ensuring that graduates from the World University of Design are not only technically proficient but also possess the interpersonal and communication skills demanded by today’s employers. Industry experts view this collaboration as a significant step towards holistic education. Nurturing soft skills is integral to preparing students for the challenges of a rapidly evolving world. Tantalum Academy’s expertise in this area is expected to enrich the educational offerings at World University of Design. Both the institutions are confident that this initiative will have a positive impact on the students when they step onto the real world. Tantalum’s Gamified Learning Programs are recognised globally as a Path Breaking Approach to Competency Development. Programmes for the Higher Education Institutes throw light on various skills development, particularly employability and entrepreneurship.
Multi-talented Saleel Tambe seems to be on a roll. This tabla maestro, wildlife photographer, IT professional must be feeling elated to see his posters all over Croydon in England for a project conceptualised by London Mozart Players as the Face Of Croydon. Saleel’s portrait was created by specialist photographer Kaupo Kikkas from Estonia who was specially commissioned for this piece of work. For the London-based Tambe who works with Deloitte as senior manager, the year 2024 began on a positive note. He won the First Prize, out of 40,000 entries, in the prestigious International Wildlife annual photo contests conducted by the National Wildlife Federation, USA. Saleel’s two images were awarded in the World Monochrome Photography Contest. Besides photography, he will be on a concert tour over the next 3-4 months travelling across Scandinavia with a Flautist in May, then with a Santoor player for the SAJDA Festival and a series of concerts in Spain with a Sitar player. On his recent visit to India, he did a full house presentation on wildlife to the Army Officers in MCTE, Mhow (Indore) in Madhya Pradesh.
The healthcare and IT employers in the UK and EU are facing critical staff shortages and to address their problems, the UK-based TERN Group, a recruitment platform provides a full-stack solution for sourcing, upskilling, and placing top-tier medical and IT talent from India. Founding members Avinav Nigam and Dr. Anjali Nigam have chalked out plans to tap this huge UK market by hiring doctors from India. In this journey, they have tied up with BAPIO Training Academy, a prominent educational UK headquartered academy with innovative learning modules. TERN and BTA Partnership plans to bring 1,000 senior Indian doctors to the UK by the end of 2025. As part of this partnership, the BTA will offer an exclusive fast-track training programme for Consultant and Registrar level doctors to meet UK requirements and be eligible to work in the UK. TERN’s partnership with BTA and the Indian government’s National Skills Development Council will allow the National Health Services, UK to access thousands of fully trained doctors from India that the UK so desperately needs. Dr Prof Parag Singhal, Chief Executive at the BTA stated that the partnership aims to promote healthcare excellence, foster collaborations, and implement initiatives across both nations. This alliance will open big opportunities for Indian healthcare providers but ironically, even India faces acute shortages of doctors, nurses, and health workers.
While pursuing her master’s degree in law, this Manchester-based young mother of a four-year old boy did the unthinkable. Rup Ghosh Roy decided court battles were not her cup of tea but cinema is. And she took the plunge as writer-director with a documentary feature titled The Monalisa Smile? Why a question mark? This bold, brave, and hard-hitting film explores the lives of 12 South Asian women living and working in the UK. The film shot in a documentary format throws light on the problems they face daily. Rup, who received an overwhelming response from 48 women with real life stories managed finally to capture 12 unique storytellers, from a beauty queen to an online chef, to a doctor who is also an animal rights activist. The film also explores serious issues such as bullying, racism, etc. The aim of making this documentary is to create awareness, make the film relatable to women and young girls in the UK, and eventually send a message that they are not alone in their battles. Self-funded Rup uploaded her film on filmfreeway.com and entered national and international film festivals like LIFT-OFF GLOBAL, and won the Audience Choice Award and First Time Filmmaker 2023. Her first documentary has created enough waves and she is being noticed and talked about.
Braving all odds, chilled weather, cold and snow Indian performing artists especially those from Maharashtra are flocking to the UK. Usually, the influx begins after spring sets in, and Indian performing arts events are showcased till summer ends. But this year the month of January witnessed vocalists, and dramatists performing in the UK. Also, most of them are coming directly from India. Disciple of late Ustad Rashid Khan, eminent vocalist Koyel Bhattacharya from Kolkata, accompanied by her husband Kuntal Das, a tabla player disciple of the late Shubhankar Banerjee arrived here in London to perform at the Royal Albert Hall on January 15 for the prestigious Saudha Arts. The husband-wife duo will present their repertoire of ghazals, thumris, dadras and classical songs for SAJDA – Festival Of South Asian Performing Arts. Close on their heels the renowned 54-year-old Marathi vocalist Pt Anand Bhate from the Kirana gharana will perform in March in the cities of Leicester, London, and Edinburgh. Bhate will enthral audiences with his mixed bag of classical, light vocal and devotional songs. The UK audience will also enjoy the comedy Marathi drama Niyam Va Ati Laagoo presented by the young poet, writer, singer, and dramatist Sankarshan Karhade who will be accompanied by the comedian-actor Prasad Barwe and Amruta Deshmukh who was seen on Marathi Big Boss 4. Powered By: IDFC FIRST BANK
London-based filmmaker Vaishalli Paatil is moving in the fast lane. Vaishalli, founder of Photo Stories, is promoting Marathi cinema in the UK in a big way. This former dentist and associate producer of London Misal has roped in AR Rahman’s daughter Khatija Rahman to sing and score music for Lioness, the first official Indo-U.K. co-production being made under the 2008 bilateral treaty. Directed by Kajri Babbar Lioness is the story of two women who lived a century apart. The first story revolves around the suffragette Princess Sophia Duleep Singh, the granddaughter of Maharaja Ranjit Singh and the god-daughter of Queen Victoria, The second story introduces a fictional character, Simranjeet Kaur, living in London’s Southall Asian suburb in the early 1990s. Lioness is backed by India’s National Film Development Corporation and the British Film Institute. Over the last six years, Vaishalli has been involved in 10 films either as an associate, executive producer or producer. Her odyssey in Marathi movies began as production head for 36 Gunn. Later worked as an assistant director in movies like Bandh Nylon Che, Manjha, Ti and Ti, and Well Done Baby. Her initiative to promote Marathi cinema in the UK is seeing Marathi filmmakers based in Maharashtra reaching out to her. She fills the gap for those who have budget constraints, and also, finding Marathi speaking talent with a skill set in London. According to her, Marathi producers from India prefer to shoot in the UK. POWERED BY : IDFC FIRST BANK
Putting to rest rumours about getting an extension, Dr Shashank Vikram, Consul General (CG) of India, Birmingham has gone back to New Delhi. The New Year will see him take over as CG of Bali Island. In Birmingham, Venkat Murugan replaces Dr Vikram. The Head of Chancery, Aman Bansal at the CGI Birmingham is now the acting CG. Dr Vikram who held the reins for nearly three years was appointed when Covid-19 pandemic was at its peak. His earlier postings in Lisbon and Durban were challenging. At Durban, it was a trying moment when his house, and family were attacked by a mob. But, he chose to soldier on. At Birmingham, he had to face the pro-Khalistani lobby who did not spare a single opportunity to protest at the CG office. In his three-year tenure in Birmingham he managed to make significant changes that found favours with the Indian diaspora. A case in point is the exponential rise in visa applications — from 5000 to 40000. Dr Vikram may find his new posting in Bali probably less challenging as the larger section of the population is predominantly Hindu and Indonesia as a nation is a strong partner in the ASEAN with India and holds strong cultural, spiritual economic bonds.
This Mumbaikar with his boyish charm is enthralling the world with music prowess. Sarangi player Harsh Narayan, a third-generation musician, strongly represents the Ram Narayan Gharana performed in England recently. Unlike several other artists who visit the UK and are keen to perform one too many concerts, Harsh is choosy and does only a few concerts abroad. Grandson of the maestro Pt Ram Narayan, son of sarod maestro Pt Brij Narayan and nephew of now Tornto-based Vidushi Aruna Narayan Kalle, Harsh probably has instrumental music in his genes and sarangi flowing through his veins. Harsh, while regaling the audience ensures he promotes the wisdom, knowledge, skill, purity and sanctity of Sarangi and also tries his best to uphold the tradition and legacy of his grandfather. Towards his mission, he delivered lectures and performed at the University of Warwick and a concert in Manchester. He has grown experiencing and witnessing at very close quarters the love and respect the Europeans have had towards Pt Ram Narayan’s bowing technique while playing the instrument. Pt Ram Narayan was largely responsible for nailing Sarangi on the international map like Pt Ravi Shankar did to Sitar. Sarangi has won a rightful place as a solo-playing instrument — and not as an accompanying one by the Narayan family.
These four people must be one of the most talented families in the country. Pune-based Daithankar family were spotted in London recently enjoying their holidays after their shows in the UK and USA. Nupur Daithankar-Bag is Bharata Natyam exponent, teacher, TV star. Her father, the internationally acclaimed Dr Dhananjay Daithankar, is tabla/santoor artist and a music composer. Her mother Swati is a well-recognised Bharata Natyam artiste. And her brother Ninad is an engineer turned santoor player. In their concert tour, the Daithankars mesmerised the audiences in Chicago, San Jose, and Dallas with their concept of Nupur-Naad, a combined concert of Bharata Natyam and Santoor recital. The family were accompanied on tabla by the London-based wildlife photographer Saleel Tambe. NupurNaad presented an incredible amalgamation of the Indian ragas on Santoor with the dance form brilliantly curated to explore the nine ‘rasas’ and different emotions through storytelling in dance with compatible melody on the santoor. Nupur is a popular Marathi actress who acted in TV serial Baghi on Zee and done a movie Subhedar currently on Amazon. Ninad is an ardent foodie and traveller; Goa is one of his favourite destinations.
India’s reputed and respected vocalist Dr Pt Nagaraj Havaldar and his son Kedarnath, a well-known accomplished tabla player known for his command over layakari were in the UK to promote Indian classical music. By meeting their fans, students, performing concerts the duo wanted to re-establish their thought that Indian classical music is an “artistic science and a scientific art.’’ The father-son duo have performed across various cities in England. Their lec-dems at different Universities in the UK have engaged both Indians and students from different nationalities. Lec-dem, according to Bala Shankar’s article in The Hindu, an addendum to the concert circuit is useful for a number of people – aspiring musicians, rasikas who want to build their intellectual understanding, writers and commentators on music and even fellow musicians. Dr Pt Havaldar, gold medallist in history & archaeology, is a visiting professor at the Chicago Elmhurst College, USA. He has had extensive training in the tradition of Kirana Gharana from Pandit Madhava Gudi, the disciple of the Kirana scion Pt Bhimsen Joshi and he also learnt in the tradition of Jaipur-Atrauli Gharana from Pandit Panchakshari Swami Mattigatti, a senior disciple of Pandit Mallikarjun Mansur. He used his recent visit to launch his magnum opus semi-biographical Bharat Ratna Pt. Bhimsen Joshi – The Voice of the People. This is an English version of his Kannada work.
Maharashtrians swear by it. Bakarwadi, a quintessential Maharashtrian item, is loved not just all across India but the world over thanks to the Pune headquartered Chitale Bandhu Mithaiwale making it available across India via their franchisee Chitale Express. The second generation Chitale brothers are keen to register their brand’s presence globally. So this 83-year old savoury chain has roped in Bollywood stars to endorse their products — namkeen, sweets and dairy products. Chitales have taken the fullest advantage of the opening up of the USA markets and has made huge penetration in institutional sales by tying up with retail chains like Costco. In the UK, they have discontinued their prime distributor Pandit and Co. and replaced them with three new distributors to cover the entire UK. Recently, Chitale brothers who were in London as part of the Export Promotion Council, took time off to explore the UK market. Like the other big daddies in the dairy business in India, Chitales are hopeful that the new Free Trade Agreement may include easy access to Indian dairy products. Sixty percent of Chitales’ portfolio constitutes dairy products so they are keen that their dairy and dairy-based products are exported to the UK. After Brexit it’s observed that the UK which has huge consumption cannot procure enough to suffice its needs from other European countries thus India is one of the best options that has given hope to the Chitales and their ilk.
Sandeep Marwah wears one too many hats. He is a filmmaker, educationist, media champion and entrepreneur. Sixty-three year old Marwah, founder-owner of Noida-based Marwah Studios, has produced a number of short films. Interestingly, he is married into a family which thinks, breathes, and lives films – Kapoors. He is married to Reena, sister of Boney, Anil and Sanjay Kapoor. Marwah, founder-president of the Asian Academy of Film & Television and Noida Film City, invited one of the youngest councillors of Indian origin Tushar Kumar from London to address the graduating students. Twenty year old Kumar is a Labour Party politician, pursuing a BSc in politics from King’s College London. Tushar was elected to Elstree and Borehamwood Town Council in Hertfordshire. His mother Parveen Rani was also elected as councillor during the same time. His speech at the convocation ceremony focussed on the power of youth in shaping a better future and the importance of perseverance and dedication in whatever field one pursues. At Noida he found time to meet with Rishabh Sinha, known for playing the role of Ayaan in Qubool Hai, participating in MTV Splitsvilla, Bigg Boss 9 and the likes of Shikha Malhotra who has worked in movies like Fan, Running Shaadi and Majbooriand Arzad Naaz, a web series.
They are new power couples who quit their high profile jobs to start their own venture. Deven Parulekar, former partner at EY and Tejas Parulekar chief manager at ICICI Bank started SaffronStays that offers unique holiday experiences by offering beautiful, private bungalows situated in exotic locations across India. What started by Tejas in 2016 as a one-employee operation of offering aggregator services of homestays has now grown into a 115-employee operator of homestays. Their USP of offering unique holiday experiences has indeed found lots of takers. Recently, SaffronStays won awards from Make My Trip and Times of India for providing a unique homestay experience. Besides, it finds mention in the Luxebook 100, a listing of India’s top 100 brands. SaffronStays has steadily built an attractive repertoire of over 250 rooms in Pan India. Inspired by Ruskin Bond, their asset at Landour, the abode of a former CEO of 7-star property in the hills of Mukteshwar, and a Tony Stark-styled glasshouse are some of their exciting assets. In the last eight years, SaffronStays has carved a niche for itself. With domestic tourism seeing good traction the Parulekars are confident of touching the Rs 100 crore turnover mark. They are planning to list their company and are also not averse to the idea of selling the brand, in future, if needed. Powered By : ICICI LOMBARD
The Indian banking circles in the UK are witnessing dramatic changes at the top level. Pratap Singh, the No 2 in ICICI Bank quit the bank after a 15-year stint to join SBI UK as the Head of Retail & Digital Transformation two months ago. Now, the latest news is that Singh has quit SBI UK. Eyebrows are being raised about his sudden departure. Was it the public sector bank’s work culture, (read rules and regulations) that made it tough for the private sector banker? Going back to ICICI Bank is ruled out as Gaurav Arora has replaced him. Meanwhile the management of ICICI Bank has asked Lok Mishra, MD & CEO, to hold the fort as his replacement Raghav Singhal is yet to get the green signal from the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA). This delay has seen ICICI Bank quietly withdrawing Singhal’s application from FCA. In another development, Ghanshyam Nabar who was working for West Midlands India Partnership has turned an entrepreneur. He has set up UI Connect offering strategic consultancy between India and the UK and Europe. Shehla Hasan has quit Manchester India Partnership to head CII‘s UK and Europe operations as its Executive Director. MIP and WMIP were set up as a strong “living bridge” between the two nations, but its current defunct states are an ironic reflection of the growing India-UK relations and FTA around the corner.
Two leading Bengaluru-based hospital chains Manipal Hospital and Cloudnine Hospital have signed a MoU with the UK-based BAPIO Training Academy to develop a global training programme for post-MBBS doctors to strengthen training and advance medical education in obstetrics, paediatrics, IVF, gynaecology and foetal medicines. This MoU implemented across 29 hospitals in 12 cities enables doctors for the first time in India to take up the Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health (RCPCH) and Royal College of Obstetrics and Gynaecology exams in India. BAPIO, The British Association of Physicians of Indian Origin is a voluntary organisation for doctors of Indian sub-continental origin, established in 1996 and based in the United Kingdom. BAPIO UK team led by Dr Prof Parag Singhal signed the MoU with the heads of Cloudnine Hospitals and Manipal Hospitals — Dr R Kishore Kumar, Dr Sudarshan Ballal — signed the MoU in the presence of the British Deputy High Commissioner Bengaluru and Deputy Trade Commissioner for Investment, South Asia Chandru Iyer. The idea behind imparting training programmes is to empower the next generation of medical professionals and make a lasting impact on the future of healthcare in India.
Just before this year ends, three music maestros from India, Zakir Hussain (tabla), Niladri Kumar (sitar) and Rakesh Chaurasia (flute) will be in the UK to enthral their fans. The trio, who from time to time collaborate with The Symphony Orchestra of India (SOI) which is India’s first and only professional orchestra promoted by the NCPA has regaled audiences the world over. The trio will perform at Cadogan Hall (London), Symphony Hall (Birmingham), Usher Hall (Edinburgh) between November 30 and December 3. The 2023 UK tour has been meticulously curated and planned by the NCPA chairman KN Suntook. SOI is designed to showcase the best of the music world from India for the UK audience. Zakir Hussain, the master of fusion craft, Niladri Kumar with his powerful strumming on the sitar and Rakesh Chaurasia with his soft soothing phrases on the bansuri will undoubtedly give the audience a rich musical experience. The NCPA had commissioned Zakir Hussain to compose a Triple Concerto for tabla, sitar, bansuri and the symphony was premiered at the September 2023 Season of the SOI in Mumbai to an applauding audience. The three concerts, part of an 8-concert tour of the UK, will be the global premiere of the Triple Concerto. To top it all, these three concerts will be conducted by the Indian-born award winning British conductor, Alpesh Chauhan OBE. Alpesh is currently Principal Guest Conductor of the Düsseldorfer Symphoniker. Powered by: IDFC First Bank
For somebody who was heading the Retail, SME & Private Banking divisions for the UK and Europe of ICICI Bank to call it quits at the peak of his career and start his own venture requires both conviction and guts. Ashesh Jani seems to have both. In 2021, 50-year old Ashesh co-founded Ribbon PLC, a digital financial services ‘super-app’, intended to offer hyper-personalized multi-currency wallets to NRIs as well as residents of India. Further, the super app also aims to assist Indians who are keen to invest in the global markets. The target clearly is the Indian diaspora. With that in mind, Jani and company have bagged the official sponsor rights for the Gibraltar Cricket team that will play matches in the European League. In his over two decades’ stint overseas that includes both Canada and the UK, he was exposed to all the challenges of financial markets and that’s what made him launch Ribbon. His notable achievements during his time at ICICI UK Plc was becoming a certified staff for the FCA Register. Ashesh’s expertise lies in the multiple top management roles he played in different countries. While in India he worked briefly with Vodafone and Tata Internet Services helping them build their sales and distribution channels. Beyond his professional pursuit, Ashesh is an advocate for sustainability and a promoter of financial literacy among the youth. Powered by: IDFC First Bank
His is a hard won success story. Odisha-born Jitendra Mishra started his career as a production manager but within two years smitten by a business bug set up his own production house Cinema4good India in 2002. And within a span of two decades has become an internationally acclaimed filmmaker. This is no mean achievement. His latest directorial venture in Odia Baghuni (Dance like a Tiger) has been selected for 2023 NFDC Film Bazaar. Interestingly, Mishra teamed up with another accomplished Odia businessman, the London based Partha Sarathi Panda whose company Glocal Films UK produced Baghuni. The movie has been officially selected among 20 feature film projects from 11 countries for the 17th edition of the Film Bazaar, the co-production market event to be held on the side-lines of the 54th International Film Festival of India IFFI Goa at Marriott Resort in Goa from November 20-24. This award winning director made his debut as a director I Am Kalam. His production The Last Colour, written and directed by Michelin Star Chef Vikas Khanna, premiered at the 30th Palm Springs International Film Festival. Mishra wears one too many hats. He is currently president of CIFEJ, Festival Director of SIFFCY, Member of Cannes Producers Network and Professional Jury in more than 40 international film festivals and forums so far. Mishra has more than 100 films in different categories.
His performance last year in the UK was a big hit. All shows were housefull. Now he visits the UK once again by popular demand. Meet Indian classical vocalist and recipient of the National Film Award Rahul Deshpande. Forty-four year old Rahul an internationally acclaimed classical vocalist and composer has captivated audiences world over. Last year, he had three successful shows in the UK — Southampton, Harrow Leicester. Pune born Deshpande accompanied by a five-member band will perform at Kent, Harrow, Leeds and Manchester between November 25 and December 3, 2023. Deshpande will embark on a transcendent musical journey. Rahul’s famous Vasantotsav Collective will weave a tapestry of melodies. Deshpande’s enchanting tribute will become a bridge between eras, connecting the golden age of Indian music to the contemporary global stage. Deshpande has been performing from a very young age. He is known for his energetic and captivating performances and his ability to bring together diverse musical styles and genres. Over the years, he has performed in over 1000 concerts worldwide, from the United States to the United Kingdom, Canada to the Middle East. Grandson of renowned Hindustani classical vocalist Vasantrao Deshpande, he studied under the renowned tabla player and vocalist Pandit Suresh Talwalkar and Ustad Zakir Hussain. Deshpande’s performance style is a unique fusion of Indian classical music, folk music, jazz, and contemporary music.
Celebrated author-former diplomat Amish Tripathi has returned to India for good. He was probably the first non-IAS and non-IFS officer who served in the Indian High Commission’s office UK as director at Nehru Centre for nearly four years (2019-23). Undoubtedly he brought the Nehru Centre to life by organizing on an average over 20 events a month — online during Covid, then hybrid, and recently several in-person events. For his outstanding performance he was promoted as Minister for Education & Culture from his earlier rank as First Secretary Culture. Amish is back in Mumbai to promote his new book Idols: Unearthing The Power Of Murti Puja co-authored with his sister Bhavna Roy, wife of Mumbai top cop, the late Himanshu Roy. This brother-sister duo earlier wrote Dharma: Decoding The Epics For A Meaningful Life and the new book is a companion to Dharma. The authors ask, why do people worship idols? The book is an insightful and thought-provoking exploration of the philosophy and practice of murti puja. Forty nine year old Amish along with his wife Shivani Bhandari is back to Mumbai, the city that saw him emerge as a writing and publishing phenomenon with his The Shiva Trilogy and Ram Chandra series. Amish has several projects up his sleeve including becoming producer. One of his documentaries is based on the Ram temple in Ayodhya.
External Affairs Minister of India Dr S Jaishankar has opened his innings in London with soft power diplomacy presenting a signed bat by Virat Kohli to the UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak. Jaishankar and his wife met the Sunak couple on the occasion of Diwali. Is Jaishankar playing with a straight bat? Or carrying some firecrackers under his sleeve? There are several issues that need to be sorted out. Issues like attacks by the Khalistanis on the Indian High Commissioner and the High Commission office in London, pending status of the Free Trade Agreement, visa issue especially one offered to senior citizens (parents living in India) and setting up a consulate in the North of England among others. It is learnt that The High Commission of India has partnered with Wilton Park to organise conversation with Jaishankar at the Royal Over-Seas League. The conversation themed, “How a billion people see the world” will be moderated by eminent journalist and acclaimed commentator Lionel Barber. The underlying objective is to get India’s perspective on the current geopolitical landscape and how and why an enhanced engagement with the world is consequential to India’s national aspirations. Clearly, Jaishankar’s visit meets more than the eye. One dimension that seems evident is Jaishankar is trying to build a strong pro-government narrative in the run-up to 2024 General Elections.
Air India to start direct flight between Manchester and Mumbai. Service to commence operations at the end of November or by December this year. To start there will be three flights per week. Earlier, Jet Airways used to operate this route before it closed down operations in 2019 March. North England has a catchment of over 200,000 people of Indian origin who will benefit with this direct flight as Mumbai is further connected to various destinations and passengers avail their 2-check-in bags allowance. Officials say service can start right away as it has got all approvals. What’s delaying is the lack of fleet to be pressed into this sector. The 787 are old and Air India is keen to launch its service with new aircraft. With Tatas taking over Air India, the management has taken bold decisions to offer direct flights to Goa, Ahmedabad, Cochin and Amritsar from Gatwick, and reserved its slots at Heathrow for Mumbai and New Delhi. Competition at Heathrow to these sectors is fierce as Middle Eastern airlines managed to grab a larger slice of the cake. British Airways has a monopoly at Heathrow thus non-availability of slots compel other service providers to move out to other London Airports.
The youngest chief minister of Uttarakhand, Pushkar Singh Dhami with his army of key bureaucrats visited the United Kingdom to woo investors for the state’s Global Investors Summit scheduled in December 2023 in partnership with CII. Dhami met captains of industry at two major roadshows in London and Birmingham. Dhami during his three-day visit chose to address himself as Pratham Sewak of the state a la PM Modi who calls himself Pradhan Sewak. This resonated well with the UK audience. Dhami supplemented his state’s Director General of Industries, Rohit Meena’s detailed presentation with his views and became emotional sometimes. Uttarakhand’s state secretary Dr Meenakshi Sundaram, secretary of industries Vinay Pandey, and Meena gave an elaborate presentation that highlighted how the state which attracts over 65 million tourists annually has achieved double-digit growth, and how under Dhami the state had revised 27 policies in three months to ensure ease of doing business. Surely, investors were impressed as Dhami signed a Letter of Intent worth Rs 3,000 crore with Usha Breco and Proma. Dhami’s has set up an ambitious target of Rs 2.5 lakh crore as MoU’s target. The feedback from Dhami’s team indicates that the education and services sectors from the UK are keen to invest. Besides, there are plans of building skiing resorts in the state, and with the existing airport at Pantnagar being improvised and new international airports planned there and at Dehradun, things can only look up.
She is an actor-lyricist-poet-producer who has deliberately kept a low profile for over two decades now. Meet Pushpa Verma who has contributed immensely to Hindi, Bhojpuri films and TV shows. And finally, the recognition of her outstanding talent did come. The Evaluation Board of the South Western American University has conferred on her with the Doctorate in Fine Arts (non-academic) degree for her creative contributions. It was not an easy rise in Bollywood; it was a hard won struggle. Often fighting against well-known lyricists and music directors as she refused to become a “ghost writer.” She shot into fame for her lyrics Tik tok tik tok darwaaza khulla chod aayi she wrote for Najayaz and the title track for multi-starrer Dharamsankat in which she played a cameo role too. She has played various character roles like mother, mother-in-law, and sister in movies starring Amitabh Bachchan, Nana Patekar, Govinda to name a few. Pushpa who has acted in over a 100 feature films, played the role of Sulochana in the most popular TV serial Ramayana. A regular at the Hindi Kavi Sammelans her poem collections- Khwabon ke Arzoo and Tumahare Liye have won her many accolades from discerning poets. Pushpa who hails from academically strong IPS and IAS family is media shy and prefers her work to speak for her. And it has.
Three successful Sarawat businessmen — Ullas K Kamath, former jt managing director of Jyothy Labs (Ujjala) now venture capitalist, Pradeep Pai, managing director, Hangyo Ice Cream and Siddharth Sinkar founder director Global Chamber of Saraswat Entrepreneurs — have joined hands with UK & Co, World Konkani Centre and Global Chamber of Saraswat Entrepreneurs to encourage business ideas from their community. The trio have organized a two-day business conclave at Wonderla Amusement Park & Resort on the outskirts of Bengaluru to meet one-on-one aspiring businessmen from the Saraswat community. The first-of-its-kind Conclave promises to provide instant funds to start-ups. Kamath promises that every bright start-up idea will get a minimum cheque of Rs 5 lakh and the deserving one will get seed capital. The star attraction of the conclave will be the presence of Nandan Nilekani and Mohandas Pai from the Saraswat community to guide, mentor, and fund startups and SMEs. The objective is to promote and encourage young entrepreneurs from the community who will be provoked to become entrepreneurs by choice rather than by default. Well, all attendees will be treated to Hangyo ice cream. The Saraswat Chamber held its first conclave last year in Goa.
Three times BJP MP from Bihar Dr Sanjay Jaiswal has been for quite some time convincing his party colleague Mansukh L Mandaviya, minister for health and family welfare to forge a strong Indo-UK health alliance. That’s yielding results. Now, it is learnt that a high-powered delegation from the UK’s Health sector comprising Prof Sir Stephen Powis, National Medical Director of NHS England, Prof Simon Gregory medical leader for healthcare education across the Midlands and East of England for HEE among others will be visiting India on August 4 to meet with their Indian counterparts from the health ministry. Health minister Mandaviya, Dr Jaiswal, a few MPs, and senior bureaucrats will meet at the residence of Alex Ellis, British High Commissioner in New Delhi to officially announce the Indo-UK HealthCare Alliance. According to London-based Dr Prof Parag Singhal, “The chief objective of the India UK Healthcare Alliance is to promote excellence in the Healthcare sector, and provide a platform for the healthcare institutions in two countries to create synergistic partnerships aimed at improving health outcomes.” The visiting delegation will also highlight the new interventions that are being designed by the BAPIO Training Academy UK.
Have you ever seen Indian women wearing a saree, bindi, and a Derby Hat at the Mahalaxmi Race Course? But in the UK last year several Indian women displayed the saree with swag and were seen at the reputed Ascot Racecourse in large numbers. Following this saree swag, a first-ever Saree Walkathon led by the British Women in Sarees Group will be held in London on August 6, 2023, to raise awareness about the handlooms of India. Women in London will walk a day before the ‘National Handloom Day’ in India on 7th August to voice solidarity with India’s Swadeshi movement. Around 500 women representing different states of India and draping different handloom weaves from their states are expected to walk past the iconic and historical London monuments, beginning from Trafalgar Square to the historic Parliament Square in Westminster, London via 10 Downing Street. The event is hosted by British Women In Sarees – a group under Dr Dipti Jain’s leadership with several Indian women’s organisations. The Kerala team is coordinated by Dr Deepa Hegde, Dr Hema Santhosh and Shirley Gibson with around 30 members. The Kerala team will be showcasing handloom settu mundu and sarees from Kuthumpully handloom, Chendamangalam kaithari, Balaramapuram kaithari, Kuthampully kaithari, Karimpuzha kaithari. They will also do a traditional Kerala dance at Parliament Square before finishing with a tribute to Mahatma Gandhi.
EaseMyTrip, a leading online platform that offers “end to end” travel solutions is expanding its operations in the UK and Europe markets. Confirming this move is its young co-founder Rikant Pittie. Thirty-four year old Pittie is gearing up to serve the travel needs of high-street customers. EaseMyTrip.com is strategically planning to extend its presence beyond the UK market. It is learnt that this online platform is eyeing the entire European markets. Pittie has also put in place a team to focus on this market, and make necessary preparations and forging partnerships to ensure a successful launch and operation in these new regions. Rikant’s primary objective is to offer highly competitive prices on flights, hotels, and package holidays for his customers in the UK. Additionally, he is also exploring opportunities to expand its offerings and include exclusive non-air products for his customers. The company will soon introduce distinctive products that meet their various requirements and preferences of its customers.
Looks like the United Kingdom’s desi Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has set the trend and many are following his footsteps into the political world. Two people of Indian origin making waves in the UK are the mother-son duo Parveen Rani and her 20-year old son Tushar Kumar. Both created history after winning the recent Council elections as Labour Party members breaking the traditional Conservative’s stronghold. Tushar has become the youngest Indian-origin councillor in the UK. Tushar’s victory in the local elections marks a significant shift in the political landscape of the UK. It reflects the changing demographics of the nation and highlights the importance of younger voices in politics. Tushar’s win, widely celebrated by the Indian diaspora, is viewed as a symbol of the growing influence and recognition of the Indians in the UK’s political arena. Tushar who moved to London at the age of 10 was passionate about politics and community work from a young age. A student of politics at the prestigious King’s College London, he teaches Hindi pro bono at the Hindi Shiksha Parishad UK.
In recognition of his role towards strengthening ties between the UK and India, celebrated author, diplomat Amish Tripathi was given a special award at the 5th UK India Award 2023. The work of Amish as a Director at the Nehru Centre, and Minister of Education & Culture at the High Commission of India’s office in London has greatly impacted the Indian diaspora. During the pandemic and post Covid, Amish and his team have kept the Centre busy by hosting on an average 28 events a month. On the writing front he has co-authored Moorti Puja with his elder sister Bhavana which will be launched soon. In addition, Amish and his newly wedded wife Shivani have begun exploring the possibility of bringing the varied spiritual works in the form of comic format for lighter reading to attract students and kids globally. In the UK during the promotion of his latest book War of Lanka, he met several children who are avid readers and his fans. Youth has been his biggest audience and now he desires to penetrate further among school children. Amish is also taking a shot at being producer-director for documentary films. His work Shiva Trilogy has been captured by Shekhar Kapur for the web series.
Fifty-five year old accomplished singer-composer Shankar Mahadevan has been awarded a honorary doctorate by Birmingham City University (BCU) in recognition of his outstanding services to music and the arts at a special ceremony held at the University’s Royal Birmingham Conservatoire. He was also presented with a bespoke medal made by students at the University’s renowned School of Jewellery. A student ensemble who performed at the ceremony led by Dr Radhika Balakrishnan, a Carnatic classical vocalist and BCU’s first-ever Indian Council for Cultural Relations Chair in Indian Studies who is also a teacher at the Shankar Mahadevan Academy has helped Mahadevan to strengthen his ties with the University. Mahadevan has expressed a keen desire to join hands with BCU and form a tie-up between his Academy and the University. To support Mahadevan’s vision and mission none other than Ustad Zakir Hussain, renowned tabla player, composer, and percussionist, and John McLaughlin, legendary guitarist and a pioneer of jazz fusion joined him on stage and also participated in an impromptu jamming session with the University students to the delight of the audience. Professor Philip Plowden, Vice Chancellor at BCU said: “Shankar is also an educational innovator who believes in making the best tuition available to talented aspiring musicians. We are honored to have the opportunity to formally bring Shankar into our University community.”
Harjinder Kang, UK’s Chief Negotiator for the UK-India Free Trade Agreement has moved to Mumbai as His Majesty’s Trade Commissioner to South Asia and as Deputy High Commissioner for Western India. Kang will be succeeded in this role by Kate Thornley, previously Deputy Chief Negotiator for the FTA negotiations. Kang joins a team of nine His Majesty Trade Commissioners encouraging UK trade and investment and promoting Global Britain across the world. With an economy worth over £3.2 trillion, South Asia offers huge potential for UK businesses. Kang succeeds Alan Gemmell OBE. Before joining the Department for Business and Trade, Kang spent nearly 30 years at pharma giant AstraZeneca. He is also a member of the Council of the University of Birmingham. Kang will play a pivotal role in supporting the implementation of the UK-India Free Trade Agreement, which could bring huge opportunities for UK businesses. Kang said: “I am excited about the opportunities ahead as we strengthen our economic ties and forge new partnerships in the region to create jobs, promote innovation and drive economic growth at home and abroad.”
The 170-year old The Royal Photographic Society of Great Britain has bestowed on the Indian born British citizen Saleel Tambe, a renowned wildlife photographer, the prestigious Associate of Royal Photographic Society (ARPS) title. This is one of the most coveted international distinctions, recognized as the “Michelin star of photography”. The RPS Distinctions are one of the most widely recognized and respected photography titles throughout the world. The qualifications support people to undertake structured assessments through a tailored and friendly education programme with a high standard of care and support for everyone. Saleel’s presentation was titled “WINGS” in the Natural History genre and a panel comprising seven eminent jury members assessed his body of work. This distinction grants a golden lapel with a gold emblem certificate and the ARPS title is now officially added to Saleel’s name. He has also authored several books on birds and wildlife. Saleel has gathered all these priceless images wandering relentlessly in various sanctuaries and national parks across the globe. Fifty year old Saleel, an IT professional, was born in Indore and graduated from Jabalpur Engineering College and in 2003 moved to the UK. Besides photography he is also an accomplished tabla player.
The latest news is that Pradeep Bhardwaj, Senior Strategy Director & Head of Industry Standards, Syniverse has been appointed by His Majesty the King as the High Sheriff in the historic rural county of Wiltshire in England. Bhardwaj is the first person of Indian origin, and the first Hindu to be appointed to this high office. Pradeep brings in a huge honour not just for himself but for the entire diaspora from the Indian sub-continent. With the presence of Hindu Chaplain from Leeds Krishnakant Atre at the ceremony Bhardwaj wrote history. The High Sheriff is the Sovereign’s representative in the county for matters of law and order. It is a direct appointment of the Sovereign by Royal Warrant and is the oldest secular Office in the United Kingdom after the Crown, dating back to the Saxon times in the 10th century, more than 1,000 years ago. High Sheriffs play an active role in upholding the principal parts of the Constitution i.e. members of the Royal family when visiting the County. Pradeep is recognised to have brought many firsts to India — first public email service, first public internet service, first Electronic Data Interchange service and setting up mobile and international telecom services in the island nation of Seychelles. Pradeep works very closely with the competitive telecom giants in India.
India’s renowned vocalist and national award winner Mahesh Kale is a globally respected artiste. But, there is more to him. Recently, the singer flew into the UK three days before his concerts leaving his organisers, fans and followers guessing. No, it was not to do a dry run but to travel the local tube in London, walk over 15000 steps in Central London, and explore the “vibe of the city.” Kale believes that weather is part of human life as nature has an inseparable bond with mankind. Kale is a tree hugger and also chooses to sit on a park bench and write a poem. He ensured that his disciples from Edinburgh accompanied him at both his concerts in the UK. Local travel in the city of performance helps him to understand a little more of the culture of that land, their liking for music. At his show in Manchester, a 6-month old baby Swananadi Kulkarni, overwhelmed by the audience and gathering, started crying. Kale walked up to her and whispered a song into her ears, and soon she stopped crying and started smiling. Kale is an avid traveler. This year he will be performing in the U.S., Germany and Switzerland. Kale is married and lives in the Bay area.
Indian classical music aficionados are in for a treat in the UK. The recent opening of the South Asian Gallery – one of its kind in the UK — at the Manchester Museum has loaned an original pair of tabla of Ustad Allah Rakha from the British Museum. Allah Rakha’s tabla gathers a lot of interest and attention as one can hear the original clip of his playing on earphones. More. Come March, Mahesh Kale India’s renowned vocalist and national award winner will enthrall his fans in the UK’s two UK cities. Kale’s “Sur Niragas Ho – UK Tour” will be Live in Harrow (Mar 11) followed by the city of Manchester (Mar 12) at the iconic Royal Northern College of Music. Disciple of the late Pandit Jitendra Abhisheki, Kale came to prominence after he won the 63rd National Film Award as the Best Playback Singer, for a classical piece in the Marathi film Katyar Kaljat Ghusli. A fortnight after Kale’s performance the UK audience will be regaled by another classical music artiste Kaushiki Chakraborty from Patiala gharana. Her popularity can be gauged from the fact that tickets for her concert have already been sold out.
Uttar Pradesh government’s top level bureaucrats led by the state’s Finance Minister & Minister for Parliamentary Affairs, Suresh Kumar Khanna are visiting the United Kingdom to woo global investors. On January 28 Jan, Dr Shashank Vikram, IFS who is the Consul General of India in Birmingham will be hosting “a high profile” gathering of investors to meet the minister and top officials. Birmingham which coincidentally is recognised as the “Engine” of UK economy inspired by James Watt will play host to strengthen ties between the UK and Uttar Pradesh. UP minister Khanna’s visit is primarily to woo investors for the UP’s Global Investors Summit to be held shortly in his state. It is learnt that Khanna and his core team along with Dr Vikram have identified a roadmap and strategies to be followed to enhance trade and economic ties between the UK and UP. Khanna is ambitious with his plans as UP’s vision is to become a $1 trillion economy. Towards this objective the state government has provided a single window clearance for 25 sectors it has opened up for the global investors. With the BJP government elected for the second time in UP, there is political stability. But, the moot point will these roadshows in the UK following the USA earlier, encourage global entrepreneurs to UP?
Odisha-based Sri Sri University is the first University in India to sign MoU as a Knowledge Partner with W20, under the aegis of G20 Presidency of India. Prof Rajita Kulkarni, President at Sri Sri University says “We look forward to working with the W20 team this year across important priority areas like women entrepreneurship, climate change, education and skill development.” W20 is the official G20 engagement group focused on gender equality. Its primary objective is to ensure that gender considerations are mainstreamed into G20 discussions and translated into the G20 Leaders’ Declaration as policies and commitments that foster gender equality and women’s economic empowerment. Envisioned by Gurudev Sri Sri Ravi Shankar ji, Sri Sri University which became operational in 2012 blends the best of the East and the West, enabling the holistic development of its students. In a span of 10 years the university is offering different courses in areas of management, architecture, humanities, agriculture, health and wellness, science, literature, osteopathy and performing & fine arts. In 2021 Sri Sri University was ranked 1st in State & Zone, and 8th in India (quantum jump from 26th Rank in 2020) under the category of Best Private Universities and 27th in the category of Top 50 University of Eminence (Deemed & Pvt) by Indian Institutional Ranking Framework.
The Rs 1000-crore Kolkata based Luxmi Group owned by the Chatterjees has been producing some of the world’s most coveted teas for over 100 years now. The group which owns Darjeeling’s prestigious and elite Makaibari tea estates are intensely focusing on the global markets for tea, and other lines of businesses. Neelabha Chatterjee, younger son of Dipankar and grandson of PC Chatterjee has decided to settle in the UK. He went as a student at Cranfield and chose not to return family’s tea estates. He has set up LUK Hospitalities which owns two branded hotels in Birmingham. Besides, he is all set to launch American style burgers, wings and shakes in the West Midlands region called ‘Brrgrrr’. The Kolkata-based Chatterjees have diversified into carpets, furniture in India and now hospitality in the UK. The third generation is strengthening the group’s presence in different sectors. In India, Neelabha’s brother Rudra who is handling the family’s traditional tea business is eyeing the global tea retail markets. To start with, it will be the USA. Besides, he plans to expand hand-woven carpets brand Obeetee and furniture brand Manor and Mews with its atelier in London and manufacturing units in Europe and Jaipur. The Chatterjees came into limelight when Prime Minister Narendra Modi presented a packet of Silver Imperial brand from Makaibari to the late Queen Elizabeth when he visited the UK in 2015.
The City of London and the UK has lured all. The King of Puri is no exception. Dibyasingha Deb, known as Gajapati Maharaja Dibyasingha Deb IV, will be travelling to the UK in May 2023. He is the current titular Gajapati Maharaja and Chairman of the Shree Jagannatha Temple, Odisha and the current Adhyasevaka (known as the first and foremost servitor) of Lord Jagannatha and according to customs also considered to be the living reflection of the Lord. Huge preparations are on to welcome the King of Puri to the UK. The King, the current head of the house of Bhoj Dynasty, will be accompanied by his wife Maharani Leelavati Patamahadei. The 70-year old King’s travel in the UK is organised by the Shree Jagannatha Society of UK. Reportedly, Odia’s population in the UK is over 5000. “Pleased with support and growth here the King of Puri is on a mission to spread the Jagannath Sanskruti in the UK and across the globe,” admits Siba Ranjan Biswal, one of the leaders of the Odia community in the UK. The King’s itinerary includes visits to the Jagannatha Temples in London, Manchester, Edinburgh and Bath. The King is expected to visit the City of Greater Manchester which has hosted the 43rd Annual Convention of the Odia community in August 2022.
Well known Odia star Anubhav Mohanty and youngest BJD MP is focusing on his first love — movies. It may be recalled that the Odia actor and his actress wife Varsha Priyadarshini made headlines when their marital discord became ugly. This popular star and sitting MP from Kendrapara, made a big splash two decades ago on the silver screen with his film “I Love You “. It was a super hit and made him a star overnight. Recently, the Odia star was seen in London shooting for his film Love In London. Film’s Director Tapas Sargharia who is also a well-known screenwriter and actor is thrilled that he was able to sign Anubhav for this project. “A large chunk of the film is shot at the iconic places – London Eye, London Bridge and Thames River”, said Sargharia. “It’s a love story with a difference,” he assures. Poulomi Das is the heroine. Anubhav revealed that the film’s climax is “unusual and the audience will have Goosebumps.” This love story is deep-rooted in the social values, culture and tradition of Odisha. Film will hit the big screen in 2023. “It’s a huge balancing act between the Parliament and dates to shoot,” says Anubhav. “But I never lose a single day in the Parliament”, he says. That’s work-life balance for him.
Michellin Star Chef Vikas Khanna is on a roll as far as directing social impact films are concerned. His film Last Colour produced by Jitendra Mishra on Amazon Prime has had good reviews. Not one to rest on his laurels, he managed to get the world renowned speaker-author Deepak Chopra and Oscar nominated social impact filmmaker Doug Roland as Executive Producer and Producer for his latest documentary Barefoot Empress co-produced by Mishra . The short documentary follows the journey of 96-year-old Karthyayani Amma as she joins a first grade class, to realize her lifelong dream of receiving an education. The film is inspired by Khanna’s grandmother who was not given an opportunity at an education. Khanna who has partnered with non-profit Leap to Shine, said, he will “use the film to raise funds in service of providing high quality education for girls in underserved communities in India.” Barefoot Empress has helped rehabilitate 11 classrooms in India. According to Dr Deepak Chopra, “Barefoot Empress carries a universal message of hope and perseverance that has the power to move viewers, and the momentum to impact the lives of thousands of girls in India.” Barefoot Empress has qualified for the Oscar shortlist, won at the Short Shorts Film Festival & Asia, where it picked up the Biogen Award and the Best Short Documentary at the Big Apple Award.
There is an estimated shortfall of 12,000 doctors and 50,000 nurses in the UK. To meet this shortfall the country is exploring various avenues. Thus, between September and November 2022 two MoUs were signed between the British Association of Physicians of Indian Origin (BAPIO) and BAPIO Training Academy (BTA) UK and Bengaluru-based hospitals – Gleneagles and Vydehi Superspeciality (formerly Mallya hospital). This tie-up demonstrates the fact that the vast Indian medical community that serves the National Health Service (NHS) in the UK has been an active and conscientious supporter of the NHS system. The tie-ups are with the aim of developing and providing world-class training and exchange programs for doctors and nurses in India to meet the growing demands of effective and safe delivery of emergencies. BAPIO with its Education Academy in the UK has actively geared up its resources to mitigate the current crisis faced by the NHS system. Chandru Iyer, Deputy High Commissioner UK in Bengaluru says, “Such tie ups will enhance collaborative training avenues for Indian medical students and professionals in the UK.” According to Prof Parag Singhal, Executive Director- BTA and National Secretary, BAPIO this training initiative is designed specially to help International doctors gain experience at core and higher levels in UK hospitals. The BTA Indo-UK Training Programme has been developed in partnership with University of South Wales and Kingsway Hospitals.
India is emerging as a popular tourist and business destination against the backdrop of the Free Trade Agreement between India and UK to be signed soon. The MICE industry is flourishing with several business delegations travelling to India not just to Tier 1 but to Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities. West Midlands Mayor Andy Street who led the West Midlands, UK delegation to India, did not confine his visit to New Delhi but travelled to Mumbai, Hyderabad, and Bengaluru. He played Kabbadi and has promised to host the World Kabbadi tournament in Birmingham in 2024. Global Tech Advocates hosted their global meet with the Tech India Advocates led by British citizens Ani Kaprekar, Af Malhotra and Nilesh Gopali. The 40-plus delegates visited Bengaluru, Hubballi (Hubli), and Deshpande’s Tech Foundation. The global organisation TiE will host their annual summit in Telangana. About 3000 entrepreneurs are expected to attend. Bill Gates, N R Narayana Murthy, Gautam Adani, Telangana Minister K T Rama Rao are expected to take part in the summit. At the recently held World Travel Market in London, Arvind Singh, Secretary, Ministry of Tourism, Govt of India and Rakesh Kumar Verma, Additional Secretary, Ministry of Tourism stated that “India is gearing up for the G20 Presidency to start from December 1, 2022. India is expected to host over 200 meetings across 55 cities in the country.”
To a cheering audience at the recently held 3rd Annual Conclave of Global Chamber of Saraswats Entrepreneurs and Professionals(GCSE) in Goa, Chairman of Saraswat Bank Gautam Thakur announced a lucrative and special loan scheme to support young Saraswat entrepreneurs. Honouring his commitment, Saraswat Bank’s top brass signed a Memorandum of Understanding with GCSE on November 17. Saraswat Bank has initiated an exclusive scheme Loan For Entrepreneurs And Professionals (LEAP) that would provide loans/ OD facility for first generation entrepreneurs from the Saraswat Community at a concessional rate of interest. Founder Director of GCSE Siddharth Sinkar, said, “Not only will LEAP boost the morale of the existing young first generation entrepreneurs for scaling up their businesses. This will also promote the entrepreneurial drive amongst the Saraswat minds.” This facility will be offered only to members of Saraswat Chamber. While GCSE would do the basic due diligence of applications routed through them, the final decision to grant loan will rest with the bank.
TRENDS & VIEWS
Editor’s Note: Big Punch In Small Pack
It is the Third Anniversary of Short Post and as a news media startup launched during the Covid-19 pandemic it certainly feels better than good to find ourselves where we are today. Here, I must cite the unstinted support of our seasoned contributors, all senior editors in the country, who brought a great degree of maturity and sagacity to the Short Post newsroom. But for them, our tagline “Authentic Gossip”, an Oxymoron, would not have matured viably. Our user numbers may be small but our stories have created the desired impact among people who matter — decision makers and influencers. We offer a big punch in a small pack and Short Post with its 225-word stories has been punching above its weight category. Having posted close to 3,000 stories in the last 36 months, Short Post, I feel, is an idea whose time has come.
And this is vindicated by our two marquee advertisers – IDFC FIRST Bank and ICICI Lombard. Both believed in our story and have supported us from Day one. A big thank you to both.
If you look at the media landscape – print, TV and digital — it is a mixed bag. There are job losses as some outfits have closed down while a lucky few were bailed out by large corporate houses. Yes, there is a lot of action in the digital space. However, the entry of corporate houses has raised the question of independence of news media outfits. Sadly, there are just a handful of independent media outfits in the country that are highly respected for their neutrality. At Short Post, our credo is not to take sides, prejudge issues or be biased but, informing readers of behind-the-scenes happenings. In essence, Short Post strives to be a neutral editorial platform — neither anti-establishment nor pro-establishment.
As I said last year, disruptions in the media world are moving at a fast and furious pace. Technology is playing a very big role in how content is generated and consumed. But, we are neither alarmed nor perturbed as it is all a part of the evolution process. What gives us comfort is that AI is unable to create original gossipy content. And that is the news arena where we have achieved a distinction.