Ruh Baba and Manjulika Step into Kolkata as Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3 Nears Release!

Sreeja Ghosh

Kolkata recently welcomed Bollywood stars Kartik Aaryan and Vidya Balan, who made an appearance in the city ahead of the much-anticipated release of Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3. Vidya Balan turned heads in a sparkling black Anarkali suit, while Kartik Aaryan looked dapper in a black jacket, shirt, and trousers. Amidst a gathering of eager  press, Vidya was asked the first question in Bengali: “You took a tumble while dancing with Madhuri Dixit, didn't you?”

With a smile, Vidya responded in Bengali, “Yes, I did fall! But dancing on-screen  with Madhuri Dixit was an incredible experience.” Vidya admitted that she felt scared when asked about how she felt upon learning that she would be sharing the screen with Madhuri Dixit. She added, "There is dance in every gesture of Madhuri (unke har ek ada mein dance hain). But she is very sweet."

Photo : Soumyadeep Mukherjee 

Kartik Aaryan humorously shared his time on Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3, working with two “Manjulikas.” Asked who gave him the tightest neck hold, he playfully named Vidya Balan. Kartik reminisced about his work with Tabu in Bhool Bhulaiyaa 2 and expressed his joy at collaborating with Vidya Balan and Madhuri Dixit for this new installment. Describing it as an unforgettable experience, he summed it up by saying these actresses are legends in their own right.

Photo : Soumyadeep Mukherjee 

Kartik joked that having three Manjulika's played by Vidya Balan, Madhuri Dixit, and Tabu would not only be dangerous but “Maha dangerous.”

The palpable excitement surrounding Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3 hints at a strong box office opening, as fans eagerly await the next thrilling installment in this beloved franchise.

India Sets Global Precedent with Complete Animal Species Inventory

Reported by

Sreeja Ghosh 

In a groundbreaking move, India is set to become the first country in the world to publish a comprehensive checklist of its fauna, detailing the number of animal species found across the nation. The Zoological Survey of India (ZSI) will unveil this monumental document on June 30. ZSI Director Dhrithi Banerjee heralds this achievement as a significant milestone, underscoring India's commitment to biodiversity and wildlife conservation. Stay tuned for an in-depth look at this historic development and its global implications.

The Zoological Survey of India (ZSI) is set to celebrate its 109th foundation day on June 30, 2024. Marking this significant milestone, the ZSI has organised the Animal Taxonomic Summit 2024, which will take place from July 1 to July 3. This summit aims to bring together eminent taxonomists, researchers, and scholars from around the globe to discuss and advance the field of animal taxonomy. The celebration not only honours ZSI's long-standing contributions to zoological research but also emphasises the importance of taxonomy in understanding and preserving biodiversity.

Union Minister of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, Government of India, Sri Bhupender Yadav, will be the Special Guest at a significant event where he will launch the Fauna of India Checklist Portal. This pioneering portal, the first of its kind, will provide a comprehensive database covering all faunal species reported from India. The launch marks a major milestone in the country's efforts to catalogue and conserve its rich biodiversity.

Recently in a press conference at Kolkata Press Club ZSI Director Dhrithi Banerjee mentioned that despite advancements in biological research, no country in the world has yet dared to publish a comprehensive checklist of its entire fauna. This ambitious endeavour, which would span from microscopic amoebas to majestic elephants, remains an unfulfilled task. Each has a separate list, such as how many insects there are, how many fish there are, or how many mammals there are. But this complete checklist is published by the first Zoological survey of India in the world and will be updated every year.

Basudev Tripathy, scientist ZSI added that so far 1 lakh 4 thousand animals have been classified by the Zoological Survey of India. However, there are many other animals that we don't know about. What We know is the tip of the iceberg

Premiere Triumph: 'Nerve' by Sayan Basu Choudhury Captivates Audience"

The premiere of Sayan Basu Choudhury's "Nerve" at South City Inox was nothing short of spectacular. The film's stars, Rupsha, Akshay Arun, and Ananya, arrived in style, greeted by a sea of fans and flashing cameras. The event was a perfect blend of glitz and anticipation, as attendees eagerly awaited the unveiling of this new Bengali thriller. "Nerve" has been lauded for its riveting storyline . 

The event was graced by the film's stellar cast, including Rupsha, Akshay Arun, and Ananya, who captivated the audience with their charm. The red carpet was a bustling scene of excitement and glamour, as fans and media gathered to catch a glimpse of their favorite stars. The film, a gripping tale of suspense and drama, promises to be a game-changer in Bengali cinema.

Now let's talk about the movie. Mental Illness, which still has a stigma in our society or we still think twice to talk about it,  director Sayan Basu Choudhury. brings out that very aspect through thriller, suspense.

Well-crafted" is the best way to describe this movie. The director masterfully keeps the audience engaged for hours, showcasing strong storytelling and captivating visuals. However, there's room for improvement in the comedy timing, which occasionally feels off. 

Now coming to the performance Ananya Guha shines in the role of Ritika, delivering a compelling performance that adds depth to the film. Rupsa's character has different shades which she has done justice to. She has combined the transformation of the character's shades very beautifully. But newcomer Akshay Arun has to play a bit more. More care should be taken towards dialogue delivery

Music has been properly implemented in this movie. Everyone will like to hear "Herechhi Dil" as a romantic song

 

From Pixels to Paintings: The AI Art Revolution in Kolkata "

AI's influence spans across various domains, from self-driven cars to robotic surgeries, indicating its growing presence in tasks traditionally performed by humans. Notably, the art world has also embraced AI since around 2014, exploring AI-generated art as a novel creative avenue. This intersection of technology and art showcases the evolving role of AI in shaping cultural expression and creative processes, ushering in new possibilities and debates within the artistic community.

Kolkata's creative landscape is experiencing a captivating fusion of art and technology with the inaugural art exhibition on artificial intelligence, hosted by the Bridging Culture and Arts Foundation (B-CAF). This groundbreaking event has sparked a vibrant dialogue surrounding the intersection of AI and creativity, offering artists and enthusiasts alike a unique platform to explore the innovative possibilities within this burgeoning field. Located at the prestigious Academy of Fine Arts, the exhibition showcases a diverse array of artworks created through an open call, highlighting the multifaceted ways in which AI is reshaping the artistic landscape. From mesmerizing digital compositions to thought-provoking installations, each piece offers a glimpse into the limitless potential of AI as a tool for expression and exploration. With the exhibition running until May 5, attendees have the opportunity to immerse themselves in this cutting-edge fusion of art and technology, igniting new perspectives and inspiring future collaborations in the evolving realm of creative innovation.

We envision Bengal and Kolkata as the epicenter of AI innovation, harnessing the expertise of our IT professionals from Sec V, Newtown, and beyond. Let's pioneer AI in art and propel our region to the forefront of technological advancement. AI art is there everywhere, over the internet. But it has never been exhibited  alongside actual real painters and artists. We want to display AI art alongside art created by real painters and artists to see how people react. As stated by Debasish Sen (Founder Dir. & CEO of New Bengal Consulting, Former IAS officer).

The inauguration program was adorned by Chandra Shekhar Ghosh, the Founder, MD & CEO of Bandhan Bank, Dr. Andrew Fleming, the British Deputy High Commissioner, Richa Sharma (Mrs. India Universe/Actor), and numerous other distinguished guests.

Kolkata's Love for Football Echoes in Maidaan Movie's Homage to Legends

Actor Rudranil Ghosh, director Amit Sharma, and producer Boney Kapoor at a press conference for upcoming film ‘Maidan’ in kolkata

In a heartwarming ode to the indomitable spirit of Coach Syed Abdul Rahim and the illustrious football legends he nurtured, the Maidaan team recently descended upon Kolkata, stirring up a frenzy of excitement and nostalgia. As the countdown to the film's release intensifies, the city's fervor for football reaches new heights, echoing the resounding legacy of Rahim Saab.

Led by director Amit Sharma and producers Boney Kapoor and Arunava Joy Sengupta, alongside the charismatic presence of Bengali actor Rudranil, the Maidaan ensemble unveiled exclusive behind-the-scenes footage, captivating audiences with glimpses into the extraordinary journey of Rahim Saab and his proteges. From the bustling streets to the hallowed grounds, Kolkata reverberates with the echoes of Rahim Saab's vision, igniting a wave of anticipation for the cinematic masterpiece.

Rahim Saab's storied legacy, rooted in the vibrant tapestry of Kolkata's football culture, serves as the beating heart of Maidaan's narrative. It was here, amidst the fervent energy of the city, that Rahim Saab unearthed gems like PK Banerjee, Chuni Goswami, and Pradyut Barman, laying the cornerstone for India's football revolution. With each step taken on Kolkata's sacred soil, the Maidaan team pays homage not only to Rahim Saab's enduring impact but also to the city's integral role in shaping football history.

The tribute extended beyond cinematic realms, as the makers arranged a special screening for revered football stalwarts like Arun Ghosh, D.M.K Afzal, and the esteemed family members of Chuni Goswami, PK Banerjee, and more. Seeking their blessings before the film's much-anticipated release, the gesture exemplified the deep reverence and gratitude towards those who paved the path for Indian football's ascent.

The dynamic portrayal of Coach Syed Abdul Rahim by Ajay Devgn, Maidaan promises to be a poignant celebration of resilience, passion, and the triumph of the human spirit. With a stellar ensemble cast including Priyamani, Gajraj Rao, and Rudranil Ghosh, the stage is set for an unforgettable cinematic experience.

Screenplay and dialogues penned by Saiwyn Quadras and Ritesh Shah respectively, Maidaan's soul-stirring soundtrack, composed by AR Rahman and featuring lyrics by Manoj Muntashir Shukla, adds an extra layer of depth to the narrative.

As the film gears up for a worldwide theatrical release this Eid on April 10, 2024, audiences can brace themselves for a cinematic spectacle that transcends boundaries and captures the essence of football's timeless allure.

Journey Through Bengal's Artistic Heart: Art Fair Unveils Treasures"

Discover the captivating world of art at the Saltlake Affordable Art Fair, held on 2nd and 3rd March at Aikyatan SaltLake. Showcasing the vibrant creativity of artists from across Bengal, this event promises to be a feast for the senses. From stunning paintings to intricate sculptures.

The fair was inaugurated by chief guest Mr Qin Yong acting Consul General of the People's Republic of China and Mallika Chanda, the curator of the event and Founder of Daughtor Art Gallery.

Yong's perspective highlights the importance of events that bridge the gap between artists and society, emphasizing the cultural richness of West Bengal in India. Open fairs like the one described provide platforms for artists to connect with audiences and foster a deeper appreciation for art and culture.

The spectacular event truly lived up to its promises, delivering a celebration of art accessible to all who attended. With over 100 talented artists showcasing their creativity, and displaying more than 2000 captivating artworks ranging from paintings to sculptures, photography to mixed media, there was something to captivate every art enthusiast's imagination. The live pottery sessions added an interactive dimension, providing attendees with hands-on experience and further enriching the artistic atmosphere. It was a memorable occasion that highlighted the diverse talents and mediums within the art community, leaving attendees inspired and enriched by the experience.

Masa Awards 2024: Shining a Light on Excellence in MSMEs and Startups

Kolkata glittered with entrepreneurial spirit on January 28th, 2024, as the Masa Awards 2024 unfolded at the esteemed ICCR. Organized by the Mantras Foundation and Ideacade Digital Solutions, the event celebrated the remarkable achievements of individuals and businesses within the MSME (Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises) and startup ecosystem.

Gracing the occasion were distinguished guests, including Padma Shri awardee Janab Kazi Masum Akhtar and Mr. TVs Shenoy, Director of Idearcade Pratayay Sur, Chief Commercial Officer of the Tata Group,  cyber guru Rajarshi Rai Choudhury . Their presence underscored the importance of recognizing and nurturing talent within the entrepreneurial community.

The night belonged to the awardees, a diverse group who have made their mark in various industries:

• Startups: Drivers4Me, Aqua Doctor Solutions, and Ashdhir Creations LLP were lauded for their innovative contributions, exemplifying the power of entrepreneurial spirit.

• Individuals: Special recognition was given to individuals like Ashtamee, Sarmistha Mondal, and CA Vivek Agarwal, whose talent and dedication shone through. NGOs like Helping Hands also received well-deserved recognition for their impactful work.

• MSMEs: Object D Art, Pushpita Handicraft Products, and Tufwud Doors and Accessories Pvt Ltd were celebrated for their exceptional craftsmanship and contributions to their respective sectors.

Beyond the awards, the evening was filled with inspiring words:

The Masa Awards 2024 resonated with inspiring words from esteemed guests, each adding their unique perspective to the evening's spirit of celebration.

Mentor of Masa Award ViborTandan addressed the gathering, emphasizing the significance of recognition: "If you are doing something impactful and that gets recognized, that is the most important thing in life: Recognition of Excellence. And as Masa Awards demonstrate, there are no boundaries in celebrating excellence. From urban to rural to metropolitan areas, there's scope for everyone doing something impactful."

Chief Guest Kazi Masum Aktar commended the Masa Awards for their role in empowering individuals: "Masa is doing a great job by igniting the way for enthusiastic individuals to go the extra mile. They provide recognition to professionals and inspire the youth to join the entrepreneurial journey, ultimately contributing to bringing back India's glory in the business arena."

Commander V K Jaitly lauded the initiative's impact on Bengal: "The Masa Awards are doing a great initiative by recognizing the talents of Bengal, motivating them to reclaim the glory of Kolkata and West Bengal, and transform Bengal back into the 'Sonar Bangla' it once was. He also extended a message to startups: "If your ideas are impactful, unique, and you possess the spark and determination to succeed, recognition will surely follow."

These inspiring words resonated throughout the evening, leaving the audience motivated and empowered to pursue their own entrepreneurial journeys and contribute to a brighter future.

More than just an awards ceremony, the Masa

Awards provided a platform for:

• Networking: Industry leaders, entrepreneurs, and professionals connected and formed valuable partnerships.

• Collaboration: The event fostered a collaborative spirit, propelling collective growth and progress within the MSME and startup ecosystem.

The Masa Awards 2024 stood as a testament to the power of recognizing and celebrating excellence. By showcasing success stories and fostering collaboration, the awards aim to nurture a thriving ecosystem where innovation and entrepreneurship flourish. This spirit of celebration lays the foundation for a brighter tomorrow, where individuals and businesses can collaborate to create positive change.

Sada ronger prithibi: A Promising Cast Struggles with Clichés and Melodramap

Once upon a time, Vrindavan and Benares were like safe havens for Bengali widows who had nowhere else to turn. Whether they were young, old, or somewhere in between, these women found themselves drawn to these sacred cities as if by fate. But now, in the twenty-first century, one might wonder: has the once bleak landscape of widowhood blossomed into a colorful tapestry of possibilities? Or does the shadow of despair still linger behind the facade of serenity?

Director Rajarshi Dey's latest offering, "Sada Ranger Prithivi," delves into a dark and unsettling narrative, depicting the plight of Bengali widows trapped in a nightmarish existence. Dey skillfully crafts a tale set against the backdrop of a liberation building that serves as anything but a sanctuary, rather a harrowing portrayal of hell on earth. At its center is the duplicitous figure of Karunananda, a hypocrite masquerading as a saint while exploiting vulnerable women within his dishonest factory.

The film weaves a tangled web of deceit and depravity, spotlighting characters like the twin sisters  Shivani and Bhavani, portrayed with depth by Srabanti as the twin sisters engaged in the despicable trade of trafficking young widows. Amidst this darkness, a beacon of hope emerges in the form of a disguised police officer and journalist, determined to dismantle the nefarious operations of the gang.

However, despite the film's compelling premise and ensemble cast, it succumbs to predictability in its plot and melodrama in its execution. While Ritabrata Mukhopadhyay's portrayal of Sunil shines with authenticity and skill, some female characters are reduced to mere caricatures, with Srabanti's role overshadowed by gratuitous sexual innuendo.

Few glimpses from the premier of the film

Srabonti and Arindam Sil deliver seasoned performances in their respective roles, adding depth and authenticity to the characters they portray. However, while Sauraseni Maitra as Lokhhi and Sneha Chatterjee as Kajol exhibit commendable effort, their performances fall slightly short of leaving a lasting impression. The detailing of the characters is notable, yet there are instances where more attention to costume and makeup could have enhanced the portrayal of the impoverished widows, bringing forth a more immersive experience for the audience.

One of the undeniable highlights of the film is the captivating musical score by Ashu Chakraborty. His compositions effectively carve out emotional spaces within the minds of the audience, enhancing key moments throughout the narrative. While the film may not reach the pinnacle of perfection, it manages to weave together a compelling story with moments of genuine resonance, making it a worthwhile watch for those seeking a nuanced exploration of human experiences.

Star-Studded Extravaganza: Reliving 15 Years of Majestic Pride's Spectacular Journey"

Capturing Moments of Glitz and Glamour: A Glimpse into 15 Years of Majestic Pride, Goa!

In January, the majestic aura of Majestic Pride illuminated the Goan skies as it celebrated a remarkable milestone of 15 years. Each week, the stage shimmered with the presence of luminaries from diverse fields, infusing the atmosphere with unparalleled charm. From the enchanting Mouni Roy setting the tone with her mesmerizing presence to the dynamic performances of Malaika Arora, Neha Kakkar, and Shikhar Dhawan, every moment was a testament to the vibrancy of the occasion.

The fourth week dazzled with a star-studded lineup featuring Neil Nitin Mukesh, Badshah, Anasuya Bharadwaj, and Mangli, leaving the audience enthralled with their magnetic performances. Alongside, Gaurav Gupta and Sahil Horane brought laughter to the forefront with their rib-tickling comedy acts.

Beyond the glitz, the celebration embraced all with delightful food festivals, captivating aerial acts, and engaging activities for every age group. These glimpses capture the essence of a month-long extravaganza that will linger in memories for years to come.

Safe Sets, Bold Stories: Nandini Sengupta Leads the Way in Tollywood's Intimacy Coordination Evolution"

Bollywood has long been a trendsetter, and the inclusion of intimacy coordinators exemplifies its commitment to fostering a safe and respectful working environment. This practice sets a noteworthy standard for the film industry as a whole. In a groundbreaking move for the Indian film industry, especially in Bengal, the role of an intimacy coordinator takes center stage for the first time. Bengal's Tollywood embraces change with the introduction of Nandini Sengupta, the first-ever intimacy coordinator in the industry who shares her experience with Sreeja Ghosh.

That's fascinating! Could you share your initial thoughts when you were offered the role of an intimacy coordinator for "Raja Rani Romeo"?

Nandini: Absolutely, it was an unexpected but exciting opportunity. I feel honoured that Joydip da trusted me with such a crucial role in the movie.

What is the role of an intimacy coordinator in the film industry, and how do they contribute to the overall production process?

Nandini: Certainly! An intimacy coordinator is a professional hired on film and television sets to ensure that intimate scenes are handled respectfully, safely, and professionally. Their role includes facilitating communication between actors, directors, and crew, establishing boundaries, and choreographing intimate scenes to make the actors feel comfortable and secure. Intimacy coordinators contribute to a positive and respectful work environment, help prevent misconduct, and prioritize the well-being of the performers involved in such scenes.

As an intimacy coordinator, what do you believe is the most crucial aspect of choreographing intimate scenes in a film?

Nandini : The key is to create a safe and comfortable environment for the actors. Communication and trust play a significant role in ensuring that the scenes are tastefully choreographed and respectful.

Given that this is a first for Bengal cinema, do you think this trend will continue, and why is it important?

Nandini: I believe it's a positive step forward for the industry. With increased awareness about the importance of consent and professionalism, having an intimacy coordinator can become a standard practice, ensuring a respectful and supportive work environment for everyone involved.

Could you elaborate on your research process regarding intimacy coordinators?

Nandini: At the start, there was some nervousness stepping into the intimacy coordinator role for 'Raja Rani Romeo.' Thankfully, director Joydeep Banerjee's continuous sharing of articles eased my apprehension. Taking cues from Bollywood's 'Gehraiyaan' and Hollywood's common practices, I've adapted my approach to ensure a smooth process.

Are there challenges in implementing this role, especially with senior actors, or do most actors in Bengal co-operate well with the concept?

Nandini : I've come across the role of an intimacy coordinator, which seems quite prevalent in Hollywood. Interestingly, here in Bengal, not everyone is well-informed about this position. Even when people are aware, there's often concern about how fellow actors may perceive it. Some seniors might not readily agree. However, on our sets, the actors are incredibly cooperative, fostering a positive and collaborative environment.

In my role, I had the responsibility of choosing and coordinating the outfits for the actors. Additionally, I focused on choreographing scenes in a way that aligned with the director's vision, conducting a week of research to ensure aesthetic appeal. It was crucial to communicate and help the actors understand the desired look and atmosphere for each set.

Why has there been a recent surge in the demand for intimacy directors in Bengali movies, despite previous instances of intimate scenes?

Nandini : See we strongly prefer intimate scenes that maintain a sense of elegance and avoid any vulgarity in their portrayal. In my work, I prioritize portraying intimate scenes as a delicate, mutual exchange, focusing on the aesthetics of love-making to offer viewers a profound and sensuous experience. In my opinion, while we've experienced aesthetic sensuous scenes, especially in Rituparno Ghosh's films, there's a need for someone to approach it with a distinct touch, adding a unique perspective to take charge of such moments.

Do you think there will be opportunities  to pursue a career as an intimacy coordinator in upcoming Bengali films?

Nandini : I'm optimistic that people will gradually embrace these updates, and I believe this evolution could lead to a promising career path.

Director Joydip Banerjee of 'Raja Rani Romeo' (which is soon going to release on OTT platform on 29th December) while talking about this said that while working we understand that Barati help is needed. Especially in the case of female actresses, sometimes there is some barrier. Sometimes there is a problem in communication. I have seen these problems in past work. When I came to know about intimacy coordinators in Bollywood and Hollywood, I thought why not here too. And it is much more professional.

At The Trailer launch of Raja Rani Romeo

Incidentally, Arpan Ghoshal played the lead role in this Raja Rani Romeo series.Swikriti Majumdar, Jayjit Banerjee, Ratashree Dutta, Kaushani Mukherjee, Jeet Das etc. 'Raja Rani Romeo 'is a love story as well as a story of betrayal and revenge.Here all the characters are gray.