Category Archives: News

Kala Ghoda Arts Festival Returns for 26th Edition Celebrating “Ahead of the Curve”

The iconic Kala Ghoda Arts Festival (KGAF) returns for its 26th edition, transforming Mumbai’s historic Kala Ghoda precinct into a vibrant celebration of arts, culture, and community. Scheduled from Saturday, January 31 to Sunday, February 8, 2026, from 10 am to 10 pm. Asia’s largest multidisciplinary street arts festival invites audiences to experience a dynamic blend of tradition and innovation under this year’s theme: “Ahead of the Curve.”

Symbolising foresight, creativity, and leadership in the arts, the theme reflects KGAF’s enduring commitment to staying at the forefront of cultural expression. Like a winning steed leading the pack, KGAF continues to set the pace for artistic excellence and inclusive engagement.

Organised by the Kala Ghoda Association, the festival has grown from a local initiative in 1999 into one of India’s most beloved cultural events, drawing hundreds of thousands of visitors annually. With 400+ programmes, 100+ art installations across 15 verticals, the 2026 edition will span over 25 exclusive indoor and outdoor venues, including K. Dubash Marg, CSMVS Museum, Cross Maidan, David Sassoon Library, and Horniman Circle Garden.

All events are free to register and attend, continuing KGAF’s mission to make the arts accessible to all, by all, and for all. The festival also champions sustainability, diversity, and pedestrian-friendly urban design, contributing to the transformation of Kala Ghoda into Mumbai’s premier cultural & tourist district.

Brinda Miller, Chairperson of the Kala Ghoda Association & Festival Director, shares: 

“As we embark on the milestone 26th edition of the Kala Ghoda Arts Festival, we are thrilled to continue our journey of celebrating art, culture, and community in the heart of Mumbai. This year’s theme, ‘Ahead of the Curve’, holds special significance as we aim to surpass last year’s Silver Jubilee celebrations. With the unwavering support of the BMC and collaborators such as EXIM Bank, Milton, MTDC, and the Department of Tourism, Maharashtra, we are confident this edition will be a memorable celebration for enthusiasts of varied art forms.”

Join us in celebrating over a quarter-century of creativity, community, and cultural legacy.

JIMS Rohini Hosts “Meet the Editors” Workshop on Biodiversity and Finance Risk

JIMS Rohini Hosts Prestigious “Meet the Editors” Workshop Under Biodiversity & Finance Risk Forum

New Delhi, Jan 30: Jagan Institute of Management Studies (JIMS) Rohini, in collaboration with Guru Gobind Singh Indraprastha University (GGSIPU), is set to host the distinguished “Meet the Editors” Workshop at its Rohini campus. The workshop is being organized as part of the larger Biodiversity and Finance Risk Forum, an academic initiative aimed at exploring the intersection of sustainability, biodiversity, and financial risk.

The event will bring together globally acclaimed journal editors, offering researchers and scholars a rare opportunity to engage directly with leaders in academic publishing. The panel of eminent editors includes, Prof. Brian Lucey, Editor-in-Chief, Journal of Economic Surveys, Prof. Andrew Urquhart, Editor, International Review of Economics and Finance, Prof. Sabri Boubaker, Editor-in-Chief, Journal of International Financial Management & Accounting, Prof. Laszlo Vasa, Editor-in-Chief, Journal of Central Asian Studies

The workshop will focus on best practices in academic publishing, evolving global research standards, and emerging themes in biodiversity-linked financial risk and sustainable finance. Participants will gain insights into publishing expectations, research positioning, and pathways to enhancing the global visibility of their scholarly work.

Speaking ahead of the workshop, Dr. Pooja Jain, Director JIMS Rohini said,

“Global collaboration in research is essential to addressing complex, interconnected challenges like biodiversity loss and financial risk. Platforms such as the ‘Meet the Editors’ Workshop help bridge the gap between researchers and leading academic journals, enabling high-quality work to gain the global visibility it deserves. At JIMS, we believe that strong academic publishing standards are key to shaping evidence-based solutions for a more sustainable and financially resilient future.”

This initiative reflects JIMS Rohini’s commitment to advancing high-quality research and fostering meaningful engagement between academia and international publishing platforms. By connecting Indian researchers with globally recognized editors, the institute aims to strengthen research excellence and encourage impactful contributions in areas critical to sustainable development and financial resilience.

The “Meet the Editors” Workshop will also serve as a precursor to the main symposium and paper presentation sessions scheduled to be held at GGSIP University on 31 January 2026, further amplifying dialogue on sustainable finance, biodiversity risk, and evidence-based policymaking.

Punjab’s Rajya Sabha MP Rajinder Gupta Advocates Employment Rights for Senior Citizens

New Delhi, Jan 30: Rajya Sabha MP Rajinder Gupta today raised a critical national concern during Zero Hour in the Upper House, highlighting the need for comprehensive employment rights for senior citizens in India.

Addressing the Chair, Gupta emphasized that India is undergoing a rapid demographic transition, with the population aged 60 years and above exceeding 140 million—a figure projected to reach nearly 350 million by 2036. With life expectancy approaching 70 years, the nation possesses a vast pool of healthy, skilled, and experienced senior citizens capable of contributing productively beyond conventional retirement age.

Gupta expressed concern over the absence of a comprehensive legal framework to address age-based discrimination in employment or to formally recognize the right to work post-retirement based on ability rather than age. While Articles 14 and 16 of the Constitution guarantee equality and equal opportunity, age-based exclusion remains prevalent, particularly in the private sector and across formal and informal employment, with limited legal protections or recognition.

Highlighting global practices, Gupta noted that developed nations such as the United States, United Kingdom, European Union, Australia, Canada, and Japan have implemented progressive legislation to promote active ageing. In Japan, where nearly 29% of the population is above 65 years, age-based employment discrimination has been removed, enabling continued workforce participation of older citizens.

Urging timely policy intervention, Gupta appealed to the Government to introduce a comprehensive legal framework to:

• Prevent age-based discrimination in employment

• Enable the right to work beyond retirement for willing and capable senior citizens

• Create flexible, dignified, and safeguarded employment opportunities

He emphasized that such reforms would not only uphold constitutional values but also unlock the economic, social, and intellectual potential of India’s ageing population.

Indrani Dutt Unveiled “Punarjanmo” at the 49th International Kolkata Book Fair

Kolkata, Jan 30: Renowned poet, writer, and lyricist Indrani Dutt launched her book “Punarjanma” , a select collection of her upcoming poems, at the 49th International Kolkata Book Fair, marking a moment of deep literary reflection and renewal. The launch was graced by Shree Tridib Kumar Chatterjee, Author, Editor, General Secretary of the Publishers & Booksellers Guild & Shree Saikat Mukhopadhyay, Author along with Indrani Dutt, Renowned poet, writer, and lyricist , who came together to celebrate poetry as a powerful voice of conscience, resistance, and rebirth.

“Punarjanmo” which translates to Rebirth, resonated deeply with readers through its evocative themes of struggle, inner strength, and the triumph of hope over despair. Rooted in vivid imagery and emotional depth, the poems reflected a shared memory of pain, protest, and steadfast resolve, ultimately arriving at the promise of light after darkness. The verses flowed from anguish and helplessness to courage, renewal, and a deep rooted belief in justice and freedom.

Speaking on the occasion, Indrani Dutt said,

“Punarjanma is not just a collection of poems; it is a reflection of our collective wounds and our collective courage. It speaks of despair, but more importantly, it speaks of hope, of rising afresh with faith, truth, and justice. This book is my humble attempt to capture that eternal cycle of pain, resistance, and rebirth that defines humanity.”

IICT to Host Global Game Jam 2026 Mumbai, Joining the World’s Largest Game Creation Movement

The Indian Institute of Creative Technologies (IICT) will serve as the official Mumbai jam site for Global Game Jam 2026, the world’s largest game creation event, scheduled from 30 January to 1 February 2026.

Global Game Jam is a globally celebrated initiative that takes place simultaneously across hundreds of locations worldwide, bringing together game developers, designers, artists, programmers, musicians, and storytellers for an intense 48-hour creative sprint. It is facilitated by Underdogs Studio. Participants collaborate across disciplines to conceptualise and build playable games from scratch, driven by innovation, experimentation, and creative problem-solving.

For decades, India has been recognised globally as one of the world’s largest and most passionate gaming markets. With Global Game Jam 2026, that narrative takes a decisive turn. India is no longer positioned solely as a consumer of global gaming content, but as an active creator, building original games, intellectual property, and interactive experiences for the world.

As an official jam site, IICT Mumbai will host participants for an immersive, hands-on experience, providing a collaborative ecosystem where ideas rapidly transform into functional games. The initiative reinforces IICT’s vision of experiential learning, community-led innovation, and skill development within the rapidly growing AVGC-XR sector.

Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Vishwas Deoskar, CEO, Indian Institute of Creative Technologies (IICT), said:

“Global Game Jam represents the true spirit of collaboration and creative freedom that defines the gaming and interactive media industry. By hosting Global Game Jam Mumbai at IICT, we are creating a platform where young creators and professionals can learn by doing, experiment fearlessly, and engage with global creative practices. This initiative strongly aligns with IICT’s mission to nurture future-ready talent and position Mumbai as a key hub in the global game development ecosystem.”

Shweta Mahadik to Host Clay Bird Workshop at Kala Ghoda Arts Festival

Mumbai, Jan 29: Actor and celebrated DIY creator Shweta Mahadik will host a Clay Bird Making Workshop at the YWCA International Centre, Kala Ghoda, on Sunday, 1st February 2026, from 4:00 pm to 5:30 pm, as part of Asia’s largest street art festival, the Kala Ghoda Arts Festival.

The 90-minute hands-on workshop invites participants to reconnect with the joy of working with their hands. Guided step by step, attendees will shape clay into charming birds that can later be transformed into paperweights, wind chimes, or decorative table centrepieces. Designed for an intimate group of 25–30 participants, the session includes all materials and is open to beginners as well as craft enthusiasts.

More than a craft activity, the workshop celebrates mindful making, sustainability, and the beauty of imperfection, values that resonate with the spirit of Kala Ghoda.

Speaking about the initiative, Brinda Miller, Chairperson of the Kala Ghoda Arts Festival, said:

“Kala Ghoda has always been a space where art becomes something you can experience, not just observe. Workshops like this bring people closer to the creative process and remind us that art can be simple, tactile, and deeply personal.”

Shweta Mahadik first gained national attention during the COVID-19 lockdown with her imaginative DIY recreations blending fashion, sustainability, and accessibility. Her recreation inspired by the Sabyasachi Mukherjee x H&M collaboration went viral in the Indian fashion community. She later received international recognition when handpicked by American Eagle for a sustainability-focused campaign, with one of her upcycled garments showcased at an exhibition in London.

Reflecting on the workshop, Shweta Mahadik said:

“Working with clay feels grounding in a way that very few things do. These little birds are symbols of freedom and imagination, and I love the idea of people taking home something they created with their own hands. Art doesn’t have to be complicated; sometimes it just begins with touching the earth.”

Set within the vibrant Kala Ghoda precinct, the workshop promises to be more than an activity—it offers a shared moment of creativity, calm, and community amidst the city’s bustling rhythm.

For media enquiries, interviews, or further information, Shweta Mahadik is available for conversations and feature stories.

Life n Colors x Shabnam Gupta Reveal the ‘Neelvana’ Collection: A World of Monochromatic Forest Lore

New Delhi, India, Jan 29:  Somewhere in the soft haze between memory and imagination lies a forest that is at once quiet, layered, and deeply immersive. This is the world of Neelvana, the latest panoramic wallpapers collection by Life n Colors, India’s premier design house, co-created with the acclaimed interior designer, Shabnam Gupta.

Neelvana is born from a long-standing creative kinship between the two, across numerous high-profile residential and commercial projects, which reflects a shared approach towards ‘intentionally styled’ living. As its name suggests, Neelvana is a journey through an imaginary forest with illustrated landscapes and rich flora that breathe a sculptural depth into modern interiors. Through graceful arches and glimpses of architectural facades, the collection draws attention to the peace found within natural landscapes. It is a soulful reminder of the world’s vanishing greenery and a tribute to the quiet beauty we must never take for granted.

Speaking about the collaboration, Apourva, co-founder, Life n Colors, says,

“The idea of Neelvan felt natural, not as a theme, but as a state of mind. The palette in this collection mirrors the shifting soul of the forest throughout the day: the fresh Moss Green of morning, the warm Sepia of high noon, the ethereal Blue of dusk, and a Charcoal Grey that captures the mystery of the deep woods. Neelvana does not merely decorate a wall; it allows a room to breathe through the four distinct temperaments of a single day.”

Speaking on the design approach, Shabnam Gupta shares,

“The intention was to reinterpret the forest as a surface system; introducing a fresh sense of shade, scale, and layering without visual excess. These deep forests exist as an abstracted sanctuary rather than a direct reference. Working with Life n Colors brought this vision to life through their profound understanding of surfaces, scale, and the way high-end design lives within a home.”

Central to the collection are designs like Monochrome Ascents, which capture vertical vitality through stylised tree forms. In contrast, Monsoon Arches pairs the structure of architectural silhouettes with softened foliage – perfectly reflecting the signature balance of order and natural ease that defines the aesthetics of Life n Colors. Across the collection, surfaces are treated with intent: murals anchor the room’s narrative, while intricate borders provide architectural framing. Ceilings offer an unexpected depth to the room, and when extended to wardrobes and panels, the visual language integrates seamlessly into the rhythm of everyday life.

Parallel to its design narrative, Neelvana carries a quiet acknowledgment of the Aravali forests, which are slowly losing their density. This sensitivity extends into Life n Colors’ approach to making, where creation is guided by care and restraint, alongside conscious efforts to offset environmental impact. Over the past year, the brand has offset approximately 95,000 kg of CO₂ emissions.

This collection is now available through both Peacock Life & Life n Colors experience centre in Gurgaon, Mumbai, and their official website. It invites homeowners and designers alike to step out of the mundane and into a forest of their own making. An invitation to bring this soulful greenery into a space, the collection starts at INR 12,000 per 30 sqm.

WOTR & Hindustan Unilever Foundation Launch Rural Water, Farming & Livelihood Initiative in Gadchiroli

“Gadchiroli is rich in natural resources, yet communities here face increasing challenges from climate change, declining forest cover, and erratic rainfall. With over 32 years of experience across Maharashtra, WOTR considers Gadchiroli a key focus area. Our collaboration with the Hindustan Unilever Foundation will drive meaningful change and foster sustainable development in the region.”

“Empowering communities in Gadchiroli is more than a programme, it is a transformational commitment to inclusive growth, resilience, and dignity. By combining sustainable water solutions with diversified livelihood opportunities, we aim to nurture a future where every drop counts and villages thrive.”

Don Bosco Alumni Liluah Hosts REUNION 2026, Celebrating a Century of Salesian Legacy and Women Achievers

Kolkata, Jan 29: Don Bosco Alumni Liluah (DBL) organized REUNION 2026 – Back to School, a grand homecoming event at the Don Bosco School, Liluah campus, bringing together alumni from the batch of 1970 to the present. The event celebrated nostalgia, fellowship, and the enduring values of the Salesian mission.

Addressing the gathering, the President of DBL highlighted that Reunion 2026 was dedicated to 100 years of Salesian presence in Kolkata. On 11 November 1925, three Salesian priests arrived at Howrah Station, carrying Don Bosco’s vision—a mission that has since transformed thousands of lives through education and social service.

The sprawling Liluah campus warmly welcomed alumni, many of whom travelled from across India and abroad, rekindling memories with former classmates and teachers.

Empowering Women 2026 and DBL Achievers’ Awards

As part of the celebrations and continuing the Adult Literacy Project initiated in 1961, a panel discussion on “Empowering Women 2026” was conducted. Mentored by alumnus and film producer Mr Amit Agarwal, the session featured eminent personalities including Mr Ashoke Vishwanathan (Moderator), Dr Shyamal Samanta, IPS, Ms Smita Roy Chowdhury, Ms Manoshi Roy Chowdhury, Ms Ekavalli Khanna, Ms Mamta Binani, Ms Kanak Lata Datta, and Ms Richa Sharma.

The event also marked the launch of the first-ever DBL Achievers’ Awards 2026, recognizing distinguished alumni—particularly women—who have excelled in their fields. Women awardees included:

• Manoshi Roy Chowdhury (Education)

• Smita Roy Chowdhury (Media)

• Mamta Binani (Corporate)

• Dola Banerji (Sports)

• Kanak Lata Datta (Fashion & Lifestyle)

• Ekavalli Khanna (Film & Entertainment)

• Dr Rupali Basu (Healthcare)

• Tarrunum Malik Jain (Music)

• Richa Sharma (Fashion & Lifestyle)

• Sangeeta Maheshwari (Social Service)

Men achievers included Dr Shyamal Samanta (Public Service), Ashoke Vishwanathan, and Amit Agarwal (Film & Entertainment). Amit Agarwal became the first alumnus to receive the DBL Achievers’ Award in its inaugural edition.

Additionally, past pupil doctors and chartered accountants were felicitated for their professional contributions under the “Recognising Alumni 2026” session.

Speaking on the occasion, Mr Biswanath Trivedi expressed gratitude to Amit Agarwal (Batch of 1993) for his support in organising the reunion. “When we approached Amit to recognise his achievements, he suggested we also honour women achievers. This idea was embraced by the committee and has now become one of the most impactful elements in the history of DBL reunions,” said Biswanath. He also announced the formation of profession-based alumni groups to foster collaboration, business opportunities, and employment support.

Alumni shared heartfelt reflections: Avinash Agarwal (1995 ISC Batch), who travelled from Birmingham, UK, said, “I feel rejuvenated returning to my alma mater after 30 years. I’ll take back memories and motivation, and hope to return every year.”

Amit Agarwal, emotional on receiving the DBL Achievers’ Award, recalled his school days and shared, “This recognition motivates me to continue performing at my best. My favourite spots remain the auditorium stairs and the church, where I spent countless hours with friends.”

Fr Sanjay Manohar Kujur, Rector Principal, welcomed the guests and reaffirmed the Salesian commitment to uplifting women and youth from marginalized communities. Rev Fr Joseph Pauria, Provincial of the Kolkata Province of the Salesians of Don Bosco, lauded the alumni’s sustained social initiatives, particularly Free Medical Camps and the Adult Literacy Project.

The evening concluded with a live orchestra and a sumptuous dinner, as alumni departed with the promise of returning “Back to School” next year.

Rebounce App Attracts 20K Users in First Month of Launch

India’s first-of-its-kind matchmaking and matrimony app for second chances, Rebounce, specially built for divorced, separated, and widowed individuals, was launched in September, 2025. The app crossed 20k users in little over a month of its launch, reflecting a shift in how Indians are approaching love, remarriage, and second chances.

Rebounce’s Founder and CEO, Ravi Mittal, said,

“Seeking love after divorce or considering remarriage after loss is slowly moving away from being a taboo to a conscious and hopeful next step. The early traction of our app clearly shows that Indians are no longer stuck in the failed marriage narrative. The new generation believes in continuing to live a full and happy life, and giving love a second chance is a huge part of it.”

Casual swipes are out, high intent is in

Rebounce’s user data shows that over 53% men and 64.6% of women on the app are actively looking for marriage, not merely exploring or seeking casual dates. The data clearly indicates that second chances are pursued with more intent and purpose.

The typical age of the app’s users is early 30s, and they are noted to be more emotionally mature, seeking long-term stability, and most of them are presently navigating or dealing with the aftermath of a serious life event, such as divorce or loss of a loved one. On average, women seeking second chances are around 35 and men 31, debunking the myth that remarriage is a later-life decision and is only pursued for companionship, not romance. Data from the app also show that 8 out of 10 users are specifically looking for love, not just a marriage of convenience or company for old age.

Single parents looking for commitment

Rebounce’s consumer data provides a telling insight into the mindset of single parents. 55% of single fathers and 68% of single mothers are looking for marriage-led relationships on the app. It especially emphasizes Rebounce’s family-aware and emotionally responsible matchmaking.

Compatibility, not stigma

The data shows an interesting trend: users are not rigid about their match’s marital history, signalling a notable shift toward compatibility-first relationships and remarriages, where emotional alignment, values, and clarity matter more than labels. Even something as simple as travel compatibility is prioritized over the past experience of a match, with the numbers showing over 57% of men considering travel compatibility an important factor, and only less than 9% taking marital history into consideration while looking for the right match. The numbers also prove that users are serious about a future together.

More than success, it’s a change in mindset

Rebounce’s early success is not about the numbers; it reflects a positive shift in people’s mindset. Divorce is no longer the end, and the steady 20k signups are proof. The app shared that users look at divorce or separation as a mere pause before a better beginning.

When it comes to users seeking long-term relationships, the finding is intriguing. Men with 22.2% are more interested in an exclusive, long-term relationship than women with 16.1%. Users, men and women alike, are noted to be displaying relationship and partner-seeking patterns that stem from more clarity, lived experience, and courage to restart.