Category Archives: News

Second Edition of the Scripts and Calligraphy Exhibition launched by Saudi Ministry of Culture

18th August 2023, Riyadh – Saudi Ministry of Culture launched the second edition of the Scripts and Calligraphy exhibition at the Irqah Hospital in Riyadh, in a ceremony attended by distinguished figures from the art and culture world. This year’s edition, held under the theme ‘Paths to the Soul,’ explores the spiritual dimension of calligraphy and its contribution to the Arab and Islamic world, through a captivating collection of historical, classical, and contemporary artworks.

For the second edition of the exhibition, the Saudi Ministry of Culture is featuring numerous commissioned works from local, regional, and international master calligraphers, as well as artists and designers, to create a unique collection of artworks curated thematically. The curation of the artworks was undertaken with guidance from a Steering Committee comprising leading experts from around the world in the fields of calligraphy, Islamic art, poetry, and design.

In a space designed by acclaimed architects and scenographers, Jean-Paul Boulanger, Margo Renisio and Tang Tu, the exhibition features works from thirty-four calligraphers and contemporary artists from twelve countries, including sixteen from Saudi Arabia.

Alongside calligraphic artworks, the exhibition will showcase a range of Islamic art and treasured manuscripts, as well as unique pieces lent from the Museum of the Institut du Monde Arabe in Paris, the National Heritage Institute in Tunis, and various other works from private collectors across the region.

The exhibition is divided into four complementary subthemes: “Light, Letter, Space, and Poetry”. These subthemes shed light on the spirituality that infuses both the reflection and techniques of the calligrapher, artist, and designer, as well as the emotion that Arabic calligraphy arouses in those who read and contemplate it. The notions of light, letter, space, and poetry aim to embody universal and spiritual values that frame the works on display, grouping them together to spark an instructive dialogue. Throughout the exhibition, Arabic script and calligraphy play a central role as the binding agent of disparate objects, from different time periods and of diverse nature.

The first three days of the exhibition are accompanied by a symposium, open to the public, that explores the different dimensions of Arabic calligraphy with a line-up of acclaimed artists and experts. Panel discussions will explore the development of the Arabic script, the spiritual dimension of calligraphy, the relationship between aesthetics and calligraphy in Arab Islamic civilisation, and the use of calligraphy in architectural design.

The Saudi Ministry of Culture is committed to preserving Arabic calligraphy as a treasured aspect of the Kingdom’s identity and cultural heritage, and as a unique artistic practice. In recognition of this distinctive tradition, the Ministry of Culture has launched several programs and initiatives to celebrate its significance, including the designation of the year 2020 as the Year of Arabic Calligraphy. In addition, Saudi Arabia led a successful collaboration with fifteen Arab countries to inscribe Arabic calligraphy on UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage list, consolidating its status as a global symbol of Arab culture.

The exhibition will be held in Riyadh from 11 June to 2 September 2023 at the Irqah Hospital and will then move to Medina from 15 October to 23 December 2023 at the Madina Arts Center.

The exhibition is open to all visitors. For more information on opening hours and ticket booking, please visit: https://www.ticketmx.com/sa/d/3550/scripts-calligraphy-paths-to-the-soul-exhibition

Lokarpan of NTPC’s Barh Super Thermal Power Project Unit II

Mumbai, 18th August 2023: The Lokarpan of 660 MW Unit#2 (Stage-I) of NTPC’s Barh Super Thermal Power Project (STTP) in Bihar shall be done by Shri R K Singh, Hon’ble Union Minister of Power, New and Renewable Energy on 18th August, 2023.

NTPC is committed to provide reliable and affordable power to the Nation. The commissioning of Unit-II of the Barh STPP is a major milestone in this endeavour.

AVA Law Group Investigating Potential Claims in Devastating Maui Wildfire

San Diego, CA, August 16, 2023 — AVA Law Group, a leading nationwide litigation firm, announced on Tuesday that it is in the process of investigating the potential causes and parties responsible for the horrific wildfire that recently swept through areas of Maui.

The wildfire, which erupted on August 8, resulted in widespread destruction, impacting homes, businesses, and natural landscapes. The historic town of Lāhainā bore a significant brunt of the wildfire’s fury – with many residents and business owners facing substantial losses. As of Tuesday, the official death toll stood at 99, with hundreds still missing.

And Hawai‘i’s statewide outdoor warning siren system, used to notify residents ahead of natural disasters such as wildfires and tsunamis, was inexplicably silent the day of the tragedy – sirens that would have warned the entire population of the approaching flames.

“What happened in Lāhainā is unacceptable,” said Andrew Van Arsdale, AVA Law Group’s Founder and Managing Attorney. “Yes, acts of nature occur that can cause injury or death, but our preliminary investigation shows that more could have been done to save lives and property.”

A report issued in 2020 tied fires to winds from a passing hurricane – similar to the ones that fanned the Lāhainā blaze.

While the official death toll stands at nearly 100, over 1,000 individuals remain missing. The financial toll is staggering, with an estimated 2,200 structures – mostly residences – being annihilated.

“At AVA Law Group, we represent the people against the powerful – and the people of Maui are in dire need of our help,” said Van Arsdale. “Our hearts go out to all families in Lāhainā and we will not rest until those responsible for these tragic events are held accountable.”

AVA Law Group encourages individuals who have suffered property damage, economic losses, or personal injuries due to the wildfire to reach out for a free consultation. The firm’s legal team is dedicated to evaluating each case on an individual basis and guiding clients through the legal process with compassion and expertise.

Launching of DBT in National Apprenticeship Promotion Scheme – Quote by Mr Dhriti Prasanna Mahanta, Vice President, TeamLease Degree Apprenticeship

“The Government of India’s Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) scheme is a game-changer move that will change the way apprenticeship works in India. It will also help in improving the efficiency amongst all stakeholders. By directly transferring Government subsidies to apprentices, DBT removes the need for middlemen and ensures transparency. This will make apprenticeships more attractive to young people, and it will help to grow the apprenticeship market. Further this will be a more affordable and attractive option for employers, and it can help them to build a more skilled and productive workforce. The DBT scheme is expected to help in the apprenticeship program grow by 50% in the next five years which will benefit a wide range of industries, including BFSI, IT, retail, electronics, automotive and healthcare. The scheme will also help to create jobs for young people and to improve the skills of the workforce. According to a study by the National Skill Development Corporation, the DBT scheme could create over 10 million jobs in India by 2025. The study also found that the scheme could help to improve the skills of the workforce by up to 20%.

We are thankful to Hon’ble Finance Minister, Smt. Nirmala Sitharaman, for the initiative of extending financial support to 4.7 million youths in three-year

span under the pan-India National Apprenticeship scheme during the Budget session.

It is a welcome progress by the Government of India and I see a huge potential here for an overall growth.”

Asha Bhosle sings ‘Chura Liya Hai Tumne’ for the Honorable President of India, Droupadi Murmu

New Delhi: Honourable President of India Droupadi Murmu felicitated veteran singer Asha Bhonsle at News18’s She Shakti conclave. It was followed by a request from the President to the legendary singer to sing a few lines from one of her songs. Asha Bhosle sang some of her popular songs and created a musical moment on the stage.

#Watch | Asha Bhosle sings 'Madhuban mein jo Kanhaiya kisi Gopi se mile' on President Droupadi Murmu's request#AshaBhosle #SheShakti #News18RisingIndia #DroupadiMurmu @Quess_Corp pic.twitter.com/6jYqAN9jUC

— CNBC-TV18 (@CNBCTV18News) August 11, 2023

News18’s She Shakti conclave honours accomplishments of women from diverse backgrounds and serves as a platform to showcase their achievements, share stories, and inspire a new generation of leaders.

ABP Network breaks the internet, zooms past 100 million subscribers on YouTube

New Delhi, August 12, 2023: ABP Network, a trailblazing presence in the realm of news broadcasting, has achieved a significant accomplishment by surpassing the impressive milestone of 100 million subscribers on YouTube. This remarkable achievement stands as a testament to the Network’s exceptional digital capabilities and emphasizes its resolute dedication to providing trustworthy news and captivating content to diverse language audiences.

The collective subscriber count encompasses a wide spectrum of YouTube channels under the ABP Network umbrella, including those associated with ABP News, ABP Ananda, ABP Majha, and ABP Asmita, as well as digital channels such as ABP LIVE, ABP Ganga, ABP Sanjha, ABP Nadu, ABP Desam, and ABP Bihar. Additionally, Video Hub Channels like Ent LIVE, Dharma LIVE, Sports Live, Auto Live, Paisa Live, and Health Hub, along with Uncut and ABP LIVE Podcasts, have contributed to this monumental achievement.

Speaking about this success, Avinash Pandey, CEO of ABP Network, said, “Reaching the remarkable milestone of 100 million YouTube subscribers is the pinnacle of immense pride and honour for us. This achievement not only showcases the widespread appeal of our content but also underscores the trust and loyalty of our esteemed viewers. It stands as a testament to our steadfast commitment to providing top-notch news. I extend my heartfelt gratitude to our incredible team who have worked tirelessly over the years to make this possible and also our audiences for their constant support. We eagerly anticipate scaling to even greater heights in the dynamic digital universe.”

The channels within ABP Network’s ambit have not only amassed impressive numbers but have also established themselves as leaders in specific language markets. ABP Majha, with its 10 million subscribers, has become the leading Marathi news channel on YouTube; while ABP Ananda, with 9 million subscribers, holds the top spot for Bengali-speaking audiences. The resounding success of ABP Sanjha and ABP Asmita in the Punjabi and Gujarati markets attests to their prominence.

Adding dynamism to this remarkable feat is the rapid growth of ABP Nadu and ABP Desam in the Tamil and Telugu markets, respectively. These channels have captivated viewers with their insightful content and engaging presentations.

Over the course of its 14-year journey, ABP Network has earned the trust and loyalty of over 100 million subscribers, solidifying its reputation as a leading source of news coverage. With a remarkable expansion into eight Indian languages and a remarkable portfolio of 21 YouTube channels, the Network has emerged as a prime destination for news consumption in languages such as Hindi, Marathi, Bengali, Gujarati, Punjabi, Tamil, and Telugu.

ABP Network’s unparalleled appeal extends to the modern audience, embracing new-age millennials and consumers seeking snackable content through formats like YouTube Shorts. The Network’s coverage spans diverse areas, including Entertainment, Sports, Lifestyle, GenZ, Health, Travel, and Spirituality, ensuring a comprehensive and engaging experience for its viewers.

Remarkably, ABP Network has ascended to become one of the world’s largest news publishers to achieve the distinction of 100 million YouTube subscribers. With an unprecedented presence across eight languages, the network stands as a global leader in the realm of news publication. Its journey has been propelled by a steadfast commitment to delivering credible and impactful news while embracing the dynamic shifts in the media landscape.

The Family Man, Surya Zinda Hai to Bard of Blood: 5 Series Infused with Indian Patriotism, Perfect for Independence Day

As Independence Day approaches, it’s more than just a date on the calendar. It’s a time to reflect, rejoice, and relish the freedom that we hold dear. And what better way to celebrate this spirit than by diving into captivating series that remind us of the strength of unity, sacrifice, and the journey towards self-discovery? From tales of heroism that shaped nations to stories of personal triumphs, these binge-worthy shows not only entertain but also ignite the flame of patriotism within. So, grab your popcorn, settle in, and let these series transport you to a world where the essence of freedom and the pursuit of dreams are vividly portrayed.

The Family Man

‘The Family Man’, starring Manoj Bajpayee as Shrikant Tiwari is a must-watch this Independence Day. He’s a middle-class man with a secret: he’s a senior officer in the Threat Analysis and Surveillance Cell (TASK), going all out to protect his country. Season 1 has him tackling ISI agents aiming to release deadly gas in Delhi. In Season 2, he squares off against Samantha Ruth Prabhu, playing a Sri Lankan Tamil Eelam fighter seeking revenge. Both seasons pack suspense, drama, and comedy just right. Sharib Hashmi shines as capable sidekick JK, sparking a dynamic chemistry with Manoj Bajpayee. Don’t miss this engaging series on Amazon Prime.

Bard of Blood

A web series centered around Emraan Hashmi’s portrayal of a former IIW agent, this Indian spy thriller derives from Bilal Siddiqi’s 2015 espionage novel. The show features Kirti Kulhari, Vineet Kumar Singh, Jaideep Ahlawat, and Sobhita Dhulipala. With its foundation in the gripping source material, the series delves into the covert world of espionage. Viewers can enjoy the thrilling narrative on the popular streaming platform, Netflix.

Surya Zinda Hai

Dive headfirst into the raw and intense universe of ‘Surya Zinda Hai,’ an audio series that peels back the layers of a town plagued by corruption. Step into the shoes of Ex-Major Surya Shukla, an unyielding powerhouse with a mission to shatter the intricate web of falsehoods. As he takes on India’s formidable power players, Surya makes a solemn promise to wage an unrelenting battle, a battle where he’s willing to wager it all – even his very life – in the name of justice. Immerse yourself in the adrenaline-pumping saga, an auditory thrillride exclusively awaiting you on Pocket FM.

Special Ops

Special Ops is a gripping spy drama based on real terror attacks in India, like the Mumbai 26/11 incidents, over 19 years. The show, on Disney+ Hotstar, stars Kay Kay Menon, Divya Dutta, and others. It’s directed by Neeraj Pandey and Shivam Nair.In Season 1, Kay Kay Menon plays Himmat Singh, a RAW agent investigating the 2001 Parliament attack suspects. Vinay Pathak is a helpful cop aiding Himmat. The series is full of action and Pathak’s character narrates the investigation details. Watch it for thrilling moments on Disney+ Hotstar.

Avrodh: The Siege Within

Starring Amit Sadh and Neeraj Kabi, the show is an adaptation of a chapter from ‘India’s Most Fearless’ by Rahul Singh and Shiv Aroor, focusing on the September 2016 Uri surgical strike. Directed by Raj Acharya, the series is available for streaming on SonyLiv. Centered around Major Videep Singh, leader of Para SF, it offers a fictionalized retelling of the Uri incident and the subsequent surgical strikes. Based on the chapter “We Don’t Really Know Fear,” the series features Amit Sadh in Season 1 and Abir Chatterjee in Season 2. Witness the intense drama and action on SonyLiv’s platform.

Shanti Veer

Set forth on an enthralling adventure alongside Shanti Veer, an audio series tracing the daring global peacekeeping mission of Indian army officer Ranveer Singh Negi. Amidst unconventional adversaries and hurdles, Ranveer battles to safeguard borders and lives. Yet, his unwavering determination encounters its most challenging trial. Can he overcome intricate obstacles, establishing tranquility and crafting a safer world? The world watches, captivated by Ranveer’s heroic journey. Immerse yourself in this epic tale, available exclusively on Pocket FM.

Jeet Ki Zid

Drawing inspiration from the true-life account, the latest web series chronicles the journey of Major Deependra Singh Sengar, a former Indian Army special forces officer incapacitated from the waist down in the Kargil conflict. Undeterred, his unwavering spirit becomes his driving force for recovery. Under the direction of Vishal Mangalorkar, Amit Sadh brilliantly portrays the role of Major Deependra. The series is accessible for viewing on the ZEE5 platform.

Poker Magnet Marks India’s 76th Independence Day with Revolutionary Subscription Model and Exclusive Bonus Code

[Gurugram, 12th August 2023] – As India celebrates its 76th Independence Day, Poker Magnet, a new-age digital gaming company in the online poker industry, unveils a launch that aligns with the spirit of freedom and innovation. Introducing, India’s first-ever Subscription Model for poker players along with an exclusive Bonus Code FREEDOM76.

With an unwavering commitment of Poker Magnet’s team to enhance the poker experience for its players, the Subscription Model introduces an array of thrilling features that redefine the dynamics of the game in the country. The subscription model comes packed with a host of innovative features, including:

1. HUD (Heads-Up Display): A central highlight of the subscription model is the groundbreaking HUD feature, which sets Poker Magnet apart from other platforms by offering players an unparalleled level of insight and strategy. The feature empowers players with access to essential data points, such as VPIP (Voluntarily Put Money in Pot), enabling them to analyze their gameplay like never before. This information also equips players with the knowledge to make strategic decisions and enhance their skills.

2. Expressive Emojis: Poker goes beyond cards; it’s a realm of emotions and camaraderie. The Subscription Model introduces an expressive array of emoji’s that players can use to convey emotions, strategies, and camaraderie in real-time. From celebrating a victory to showing empathy, these emoji’s foster connections among players, enhancing the social aspect of poker.

3. Rabbit Hunt Adventure: The Rabbit Hunt feature adds an exhilarating layer to every hand, allowing players to peek at unrevealed cards after a hand concludes. This captivating addition adds suspense and excitement, transforming each hand into a journey of possibilities and revelations.

4. Free Time Bank: In poker, time is a crucial element for strategic choices. The Subscription Model offers players a valuable Free Time Bank, allowing them to strategize, analyze, and execute their moves without the pressure of time constraints. This feature encourages analytical thinking and empowers players to make precise and calculated decisions.

5. Disconnection Time Safety Net: Acknowledging the unpredictability of online connectivity, the Disconnection Time feature safeguards players from unexpected disruptions. This assurance ensures seamless reconnection and uninterrupted gameplay, enabling players to focus on their strategies without concerns of technical interruptions.

“Mr. Rahul Bhatia, Founder Poker Magnet said, “With the unveiling of our Subscription Model, we embark on a journey that redefines poker entertainment. We’ve carefully crafted this model and our decision to price the subscription is rooted in the understanding that when something is earned, it holds a deeper significance. We recognize that in a culture where value is cherished, providing a premium experience requires a commitment from both sides. Through this launch, we intend to not only elevate the gameplay but also celebrate the inherent value of engagement.”

The Gold and Platinum Membership tiers are available now for ₹250 & ₹500 per week respectively. Players can sign up for the subscription model on the Poker Magnet app. Also,

With a deposit of ₹1508, players unlock a ₹760 as RCB (Real Cash Bonus) and ₹748 as UCB (Unreal Cash Bonus), creating a gaming experience that resonates with joy and celebration.

Players can enter the Bonus Code FREEDOM76 while making a deposit, and the bonuses will be credited to their respective accounts, instantly.

To partake in this launch and explore the Subscription Model and bonus code, players can download the official Poker Magnet app from https://pokermagnet.com/ and embark on a poker adventure like never before.

About Poker Magnet:

Established in 2016, Poker Magnet is a new-age digital gaming company that aims to transform the online poker industry in India. As a team of passionate poker enthusiasts, we are dedicated to bringing the thrilling world of poker to players everywhere. Our mission is to create an exceptional poker app that encompasses cutting-edge technology, immersive gameplay, and a vibrant poker community.
At Poker Magnet, we uphold the values of integrity, fairness, and innovation. We prioritize maintaining the highest standards of security and player protection, ensuring that your gaming experience is both exhilarating and safe. Our platform is designed with a seamless and user-friendly interface, making it accessible for players of all skill levels to enjoy the game.
Beyond the gameplay, we take immense pride in fostering a vibrant and inclusive poker community. We firmly believe that poker is more than just a game of cards; it’s a social experience that brings people together. Join our community today, and immerse yourself in the camaraderie and excitement that poker offers.

The Traveller Exhibition Solo Art Show by Alka Bhrushundi

New Delhi, 12h August 2023 – An exceptional solo exhibition of paintings, यात्रिक – The Traveller, by the renowned artist Alka Bhrushundi, opened its doors with a grand inauguration ceremony on Wednesday, 9th August 2023, at 6 PM. The event took place at the prestigious Open Palm Court, India Habitat Centre, Lodhi Road, New Delhi-110003.

The esteemed occasion was graced by luminaries and dignitaries of the art and cultural world. The inauguration was led by the honorable Chief Guest, Dr. Vinay Sahasrabuddhe, President of the Indian Council for Cultural Relations. The Guests of Honour included the distinguished Indian Sculptor, Padma Bhushan Awardee Ram Vanji Sutar, and Mr. K. Narayana Rao, Deputy Managing Director of GMR Group.

Alka Bhrushundi’s collection of exquisite paintings is an embodiment of profound human emotions and thoughts. Each stroke on canvas portrays a journey of self-discovery, guided by the artist’s deep understanding of Yoga, Ayurveda, and Reiki. Her artworks resonate with spirituality and divinity, creating an ethereal experience for viewers.

The exhibition offers an immersive voyage through vibrant hues, evocative emotions, and boundless imagination. It beckons art enthusiasts and connoisseurs to witness the evocative power of visual storytelling.

Prominent personalities from various domains graced the event, including Sushma Behl, C Mumim from the Taiwan Embassy, designer Anuradha Ramam, renowned dancer Geeta Chandran, Rajeev Chandran, Sunit Tandon, Jiten Hazarika, and others, adding to the charm and vibrancy of the evening.

The artistic journey of यात्रिक – The Traveller will continue to enchant visitors from 9th August to 15th August, between 11 AM to 7 PM. We invite art enthusiasts, media, and the public to immerse themselves in this captivating exhibition and experience the beauty of Alka Bhrushundi’s artistic exploration.–

55-day-long recitation of the Mahashivpuran begins at the grand Shiv Darbar

Chhatarpur, New Delhi, August 11 2023: In the divine presence of Shri Krishnagiri Parshva Padmavati Shaktipeethadhipati, the National Saint, Sarvadharma Divakar Dr. Shri Vasanta Vijay Ji Maharaj Saheb, preparations have been completed. It is likely to start from August 11th to October 5th, 2023, for a 55-day long celebration consisting of the Shiv Mahapuran recitation, Yagna (Ritual Offering), and the grand Rudrabhishek Mahotsav. During this 55-day-long festival, the installation and worship of 1.11 Crore earthly Shiva Lingams will also take place. As part of the grand Mahotsav held at the Markandeya Hall Chhatarpur Temple, arrangements have been made for a massive Bhandara for thousands of devotees every day.

During the 55-day-long Shiv Maha Anushthan (Ritual Observance), a special and auspicious devotional worship will take place from 9.00 AM to 12.00 PM. From 3.00 PM to 5.00 PM, there will be a blissful recitation of the Shiv Purana. In the evening, from 5.00 PM to 8.00 PM, a benevolent Mahayagna accompanied by divine chants will be conducted, and the Bhajan Sandhya (devotional song evening) will commence at 8.00 PM with a continuous flow of melodious hymns. The divine Shiv Darbar (Court of Lord Shiva) adorned at Chhatarpur Markandeya Hall will resound with the devotion of ardent Shiva devotees under the guidance of Sant Shri Vasanta Vijay Maharaj Ji. Listening to this spiritual gathering will enrich your life. Such a historically divine opportunity to witness and hear won’t come again in your lifetime.