Shri G Kishan Reddy, Union Minister for Culture, Tourism and Development of North-eastern Region, inaugurated an exhibition of paintings by eminent artist, Akbar Saheb today at National Gallery of Modern Art, New Delhi. The art of Akbar Saheb is unique as all fifty-five artworks are wholly inspired by the Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi and his incredible journey and vision. The exhibition, curated by the well-known Rajeev Menon is open to the public from 28th October to 3rd November 2022.
On the occasion, the Union Minister said that Akbar Saheb has shown the journey of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi including from Gujarat to becoming the world leader. He added that the paintings show major policy decisions such as GST and depict demonetisation and surgical strike in a clear manner. Shri G.K also said the paintings show the challenges faced by Shri Narendra Modi and his achievements as Prime Minister. The paintings are also important as they show the impact of Shri Narendra Modi around the world.
The themes presented promise to resonate with every Indian across the country. Each work is deeply rooted in the initiatives taken by the Union government and is directly linked to the aspirations of the common man and the progress of the nation. With his exceptional paintings, Akbar Saheb’s sole intention is to simply encourage and inspire Indians to follow their dream. Of particular interest is the painting titled ‘Dare to Dream’ which documents the courageous journey of a young boy, selling tea in a small town in Gujarat to realise his destiny as Prime Minister of the world’s largest democracy.
The paintings also highlight Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi’s success stories as well as the many challenges faced with various projects such as Vibrant Gujarat, Shining Bright (based on Asia’s largest solar park in Gujarat), Statue of Unity, Truth Prevails, Sadhbhavana Yatra and so on. Some paintings of note are ‘Lasting Impact’ which depicts his formidable power of resilience and endurance. ‘Bharat Mata’ is another evocative work where the Hon’ble Prime Minister’s mother is personified as Bharat Mata.
Interestingly more than forty artworks are fine expressions based on the popular series of talks, Mann ki Baat. Works like Sankalp Se Siddhi, Say NO to Black Money, Beware of Drugs, Save our Farmers, Water is a Blessing and Helping Hands are masterful compositions that are not only aesthetically pleasing but also send out a powerful message of humanity and compassion. A painting titled ‘Two Great Leaders’ illustrates some special moments shared with President Barack Obama of the United States. There are also the artist’s masterstrokes on the challenges of demonetization, Indus water treaty and the heroic sacrifices of the Indian army.
Akbar Saheb’s paintings present a narrative of mass mobilization and the positive impact of programmes like Swachh Bharat, Digital India, Mudra Yojana, Yoga as part of Life, electrification of villages and LPG connections for the poor. They also illustrate the revitalisation of the economy with the ambitious Make in India project and the growth of tourism as a showcase for the cultural heritage of the country.
Union Education and Skill Development & Entrepreneurship Minister Shri Dharmendra Pradhan along with MoS, I&B and Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying Shri L. Murugan today announced the “KASHI TAMIL SANGAMAM” to be held from 16th Nov to 19th Dec 2022. Shri Dharmendra Pradhan also launched the website for registering for “KASHI TAMIL SANGAMAM”.
Bharatiya Bhasha Samiti (BBS) has come up with a proposal to rediscover, reaffirm and celebrate the age-old links between the Tamil culture and Kashi that has existed since centuries. A month long “Kashi Tamil Sangamam” is to be organized in Varanasi (Kashi) from 16th November to 19th December,2022 during which academic exchanges – seminars, discussions etc will be held between experts/ scholars on various facets of the two ancient manifestations of Indian Culture, with focus on bringing out the links and shared values between the two. The broader objective is to bring the two Knowledge and Cultural traditions closer, create and understanding of our shared heritage and deepen the people-to-people bond between the regions.
While addressing the press conference, Shri Dharmendra Pradhan said that India is a symbol of civilizational connectivity. The Kashi-Tamil Sangamam shall be an ideal platform to understand the unity in India’s civilizational assets through two historic centres of knowledge & culture. The Sangamam to be organised under the overall framework and spirit of “Ek Bharat, Shrestha Bharat” will create a bridge between ancient India and contemporary generation. Kashi Sangamam will rediscover the link between these two ancient centres of knowledge, culture and heritage, he further added.
Shri Pradhan informed thatKashi-Tamil Sangamam will be centred around a series of themes that cover various facets of knowledge – literature, ancient texts, philosophy, spirituality, music, dance, drama, yoga, Ayurveda, handlooms, handicrafts as well as the modern innovations, trade exchanges, edutech and other gen next technology etc. Seminars, discussions, lectures, lec-dems etc will be held on these themes, for which subject experts will be invited. This shall be unique learning experience for students, scholars, academics, practising professionals, etc. on various facets of Indian Knowledge Systems, Education & Training Practices, Arts & Culture, Language, Literature, etc, he added.
To ensure that the benefit of these discussions reaches the actual practitioners of these knowledge streams, it is proposed that in addition to experts, common practitioners from various groups from different parts of Tamil Nadu, can be brought for an 8-day visit of Varanasi and its neighbouring areas. Tentatively, 12 such groups have been identified including students, teachers, literary (authors, poets, publishers), cultural experts, professionals (practicing arts, music, dance, drama, folk art, yoga, Ayurveda), entrepreneurs, (SMEs, start-ups) business people, (community business groups, hoteliers,) artisans, heritage related experts (archaeologists, tour guides, bloggers etc) spiritual, rural, sampradaya organizations. These people will participate in the academic programs, interact with people of Varanasi associated with the same field, and visit places of interest in and around Varanasi.
It is proposed that around 210 people from different parts of Tamil Nadu can be taken in one group for a period of 8 days. 12 such groups, comprising around 2500 people can visit over a month.
At the end of the Sangamam event, people of Tamil Nadu shall get an immersive experience of Kashi and the people of Kashi shall also get to know the cultural richness of Tamil Nadu through a healthy exchange of knowledge sharing experiences - events, visits, conversations, etc.
The Red Fort, which is also known as the Lal Qila, was constructed by one of the most famous Mughal emperors, Shah Jahan. Built on the banks of river Yamuna, the fortress-palace was designed by architect Ustad Ahmad Lahauri. It took 8 years and 10 months to build the magnificent fort. The fort served as the royal residence of the Mughal emperors from 1648 to 1857. It took over the honor of royal residence from the famous Agra Fort when Shah Jahan decided to shift his capital from Agra to Delhi.
The Red Fort derives its name from the red-sandstone walls, which make the fort almost impregnable. The fort, which is located at Old Delhi, is one of the massive and prominent structures of India and is a fine example of Mughal architecture. It is often considered as the pinnacle of Mughal creativity. In modern times, the fort is of importance to the people of India as the Indian Prime Minister delivers his Independence Day speech from the fort, every year on August 15. In 2007, it was declared as UNESCO World Heritage Site.
History Shah Jahan, the then Mughal emperor decided to build the Red Fort as the citadel of Shahjahanabad, his new capital at Delhi. The fort, which was completely constructed in the year 1648, remained the residence of the Mughal emperors until 1857. Post the reign of Aurangzeb, the Mughal dynasty grew weaker in every aspect and that started taking a toll on the fort. When Farrukhsiyar, the ninth Mughal emperor, took over the reign from Jahandar Shah after murdering him, the fort began to lose its luster, quite literally. During his reign, the silver ceiling of the fort was replaced with copper in order to raise money. This was probably the beginning of the plunder that would go on for years to come. In 1739, Nadir Shah, the Persian emperor defeated the Mughals and took with him some of the valuables belonging to the fort, including the famous peacock throne, which had served as the royal throne of the Mughals. The weakened Mughals had no other option but to sign a treaty with the Marathas, who had promised to protect them and the fort. In 1760, when Ahmed Shah Durrani of the Durrani dynasty threatened to capture Delhi, the Marathas dug out the silver ceiling of Diwan-i-Khas to strengthen their army. However, Ahmed Shah Durrani defeated the Marathas in the third battle of Panipat and took over the fort. The Marathas reconquered the fort in 1771 and stalled Shah Alam II as the 16th Mughal emperor. In 1788, the Marathas occupied the fort and ruled over Delhi for the next 20 years before the British defeated them during the Second Anglo-Maratha War in 1803. The fort now was occupied by the British, who even built a residence of their own within the fort. During the Indian rebellion of 1857, Bahadur Shah II, was arrested by the British and later exiled to Rangoon. With Bahadur Shah II, the Mughal Empire came to an end and this opened a window of opportunity for the British to loot valuables from the fort. Almost all furniture were either destroyed or shipped to England. Many edifices and landmarks within the fort were destroyed and barracks of stone replaced them. Many priceless possessions like the Koh-i-Noor diamond, the crown of Bahadur Shah and the wine cup of Shah Jahan were sent to the British government. After independence, the Indian Army occupied a major part of the fort before handing it over to the Archaeological Survey of India (ASA) for restoration purposes. The Red Fort is the largest historical structure in Delhi. Every year, the Prime Minister of India hoists the tricolor flag on every Independence Day. Security around the fort during the Independence Day celebrations is tightened as the place was attacked by terrorists on 22 December in the year 2000. The fort also serves as a major tourist attraction and witnesses thousands of visitors throughout the year. Though many buildings are not in great shape, some are still in good condition and efforts are being taken to conserve what is left of the fort. Three museums namely the museum of blood paintings, war-memorial museum and archaeological museum have been set up inside the fort.In the newly released currency note of rupees 500, the fort appears on the back of the note, implying its importance even in the post-independence era.
Brihadeeshwara Temple is originally known as Peruvudaiyar Kovil locally known as Thanjai Periya Kovil. It is located in Thanjavur. It is one of the largest Hindu temples and an exemplary example of a fully realized Tamil architecture.
It was built by Raja Raja Chola I in 1010 AD, Brihadeshwara Temple is an ancient temple . The deity of the temple is Lord Shiva,in his dancing pose who is called the Nataraj. The temple is also known as Rajeswara Temple, Rajarajeswaram and Periya Kovil. The temple was built, like a fortress on the shores of a river, by the king to grace the Chola Empire. This thousand-year-old temple is now part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site adding to its exceptional historical and cultural value. The truth is that the secret of the construction of the great temple is still unknown. The large temple construction system is designed in the form of light bonding. During the construction of this temple, when each stone was bound, a threaded gap was left behind. The reason is the way the temple was built and the pure granite stones used for it. While everyone thinks that granite was introduced in the 20th century, it is surprising that over 130,000 tons of granite was used in this temple about 1000 years ago. The temple is a magnificent architectural construct that will never stop surprising anyone visiting the temple. The major attraction of the temple is the 216-feet-tall tower that is built above the Sanctum of the temple. This flamboyant tower can be seen by anyone entering the city from afar. Another breathtaking thing that will sure stupefy the visitor is the magnificent Nandi statue built at the temple; it is about two meters in height, six meters in length and two-and-half meters in width, and weighs around a whopping 20 tons for a statue built from a single stone. Various postures of the famous classical dance, Bharathanatyam, are sculpted finely on the exterior walls of the upper storey of the temple. The temple is a myriad of surprises , by its architectural features. The topmost structure of the temple, called Vimana, weighs around 80 tons, and it is a mystery how the builders got it up there. There are several musical pillars, which make different sounds when taped, at the temple. The architecture of the temple is done so cleverly that the temple casts no shadow on the ground when the sun is at its peak. This is a phenomenon that attracts thousands of tourists and architectural enthusiasts from across the world to unravel the architectural mystery of the temple. Brihadeshwara Temple is also the first all-granite temple in the world, and the fact that granites are not available within the 100-mile radius of the temple only makes it all the more astonishing. Granite is as heavy a stone to carry as it is to carve, but none of that seemed to have shied the king from realizing the temple the way he envisaged.
It took only 7 years to built the temple. The Thanjavur Great Temple is a majestic work of art built over a thousand years ago in a time when science was not developed and there were no technical tools.Foreign researchers researching the Great Temple, with the help of today’s state-of-the-art techniques and science, are still scratching their heads over the mystery of its construction, despite standing upside down and researching the anchor. Yet they themselves come to an assumption and come to the conclusion that they would have built like this, or built like that.The majesty of the temple carries it's pride to many centuries.
India is uniquely characterized by its unity and diversity. A grand synthesis of cultures, religions and languages of the people belonging to different castes and communities has upheld its unity and cohesiveness despite multiple foreign invasions. National unity and integrity have been maintained even through sharp economic and social inequalities have obstructed the emergence of egalitarian social relations. It is this synthesis which has made India a unique mosque of cultures. Thus, India present seemingly multicultural situation within in the framework of a single integrated cultural whole. The term ‘diversity’ emphasizes differences rather than inequalities. It means collective differences, that is, differences which mark off one group of people from another. These differences may be of any sort: biological, religious, linguistic etc. Thus, diversity means variety of races, of religions, of languages, of castes and of cultures. Unity means integration. It is a social psychological condition. It connotes a sense of one- ness, a sense of we-ness. It stands for the bonds, which hold the members of a society together. Unity in diversity essentially means “unity without uniformity” and “diversity without fragmentation”. It is based on the notion that diversity enriches human interaction. When we say that India is a nation of great cultural diversity, we mean that there are many different types of social groups and communities living here. These are communities defined by cultural markers such as language, religion, sect, race or caste.
India is a land of diversity each state in the country is home to several communities who live in harmony with each other while preserving and upholding their own distinct culture and traditions. From Delhi, the capital of India, to Tamil Nadu, the southernmost state of India, the land, is blessed with amazing scenic beauty. The country is also home to several historical monuments which add to the varied heritage of India. India is also classified by the Dravidian and the Nagara architectural styles as the focal focus of Hindu architecture. In the empires, in the South of India, the Dravidian style prospered, whilst in the North of India, the Nagara style predominately appeared. India’s history, culture and religion are ingrained in its architecture. India have cultural domains all over the nation.Few are listed below:
The inheritance of diversity of languages: The relationship between language and culture is perfectly embedded. In fact they are entangled. Peoples Linguistic Survey of India identified 780 languages of which 50 got extinct in past five decades. Officially there are 122 languages but 22 languages in the Eighth Schedule of the constitution give cultural pockets like Assamese, Gujarati, Konkani, Maithili, Manipuri, Oriya, Tamil, Telugu etc. Religious diversity: According to the data on Population by Religious Communities of Census 2011, Hindu 96.63 crores (79.8%); Muslim 17.22 crores (14.2%); Christian 2.78 crores (2.3%); Sikh 2.08 crores (1.7%); Buddhist 0.84 crores (0.7%); Jain 0.45 crores (0.4%) are dispersed all over the nation forming cultural pockets. Racial diversity: Most contemporary anthropologists categorize Indians as belonging to racial admixture. Mongoloids are largely confined to the North-eastern region whereas Negritos are found on the Andaman Islands. Ethnic diversity: As per the 1901 census, the eight different ethnic groups found in India are: 1. Pre-Dravidian 2. Dravidian 3. Indo-Aryan 4.Turko-Iranian 5.Scytho-Dravidian 6. Arya- Dravidian 7. Mongoloid 8.Mongoloid-Dravidian. Because of this, India has been termed as an ethnological museum. A particular ethnic group shared a common culture, common language or dialect, a common religion, a common norm, practices, customs and history. Such multiple groups appeared as cultural pockets.
Advantages of diversity: • It helps in strengthening love and tolerance promoting amity and unity and openness to other diverging views • It is the identity that India had asserted for long in three international foras • Diversity of culture translates into diversity of ideas and innovations • The rich heritage and culture resultant of this diversity has enormous potential for tourism capable of creating large scale employment • Geographical diversity creates rich reserve of flora and fauna benefiting the environment, tourism, pharmaceutical etc. Disadvantages: • The social tension and conflicts arising from this diversity leading to growth of divisive tendencies like communalism, regionalism, linguism etc. present a major that to the social fabric, economic development and survival of democracy
Threats: Disputes are inevitable in any diverse society and when not managed properly they can turn into conflict, threatening the very survival of society as was the case in Balkan Peninsula. Similarly Indian society faces following challenges which endanger its ‘unity in diversity’. • Communalism: the rising majoritarian tendencies such as call for a ‘Hindu rashtra’, cow vigilantism, love jihad claims against inter-religion marriages threaten the secular fabric of Indian society • Regionalism: the demands of new states and even secession based on language (gorkhaland, Dravidnaad), religion (khalistan), ethnicity (nagalim) continue to mar the unity and integrity of nation • Linguism: perceived threats to the local language and recent attempts the Fife Hindu on non-willing sections have in the past led to movements like Dravidian movement and can be seen in recent times as well such as Gokhaland and Bodoland movements • Casteism: caste oppression had continued for long time with scant attempts to challenge it until recently. With the opportunities provided by increasing literacy rate and economic reforms and excessive politicisation, caste identities are becoming more pronounced than before. While some use it to challenge the oppression they have faced (Bhima-koregaon), others use it to claim benefits of reservation (Jat, Patidar, Maratha) • Racism: discrimination against people of North-east, people of south in northern states and vice versa threatens a whole section of the society, dissipating discrimination into division • Separatist movements: The ongoing separatist movements in J&K and North-East along with Naxalism have for long and continue to pose significant risks to India’s unity.
Ensure this unity: A society based on justice, liberty, equality and fraternity only can stay united for long, especially society as diverse as India. As the Sachar committee report has pointed out, minorities continue to fare poorly in socio-economic indicators as compared to majority. Similar is the case with tribals and Dalits where high GDP growth has not translated into development and improvement in quality of life.
It is therefore necessary that principles espoused in directive principles are realised in spirit. Investments in the social sector including health and education, electoral reforms to keep out the divisive tendencies, providing for development needs of deprived sections such as tribals and Dalits, inclusive and equitable urbanization and curbing the majoritarian tendencies through appropriate legal measures is the only way forward to ensure a united and integrated India.
Arth Ganga is an initiative added recently to the Namami Ganga Program launched by the Government in 2014. It was decided in the meeting of National Ganga Council (NGC) held on 14th December 2019 to launch a new concept as the name Arth Ganga, which is a sustainable and viable economic development model to strengthen the river-people connect through an economic bridge. Accordingly, it was decided that the Namami Gange mission should lead the concept of Arth Ganga with the involvement of different ministries/departments and other stakeholders, institution & community organization. So it was added as a vertical of Namami Ganga Program, in addition to the 4 verticals – Nirmal Ganga, Aviral Ganga, Jan Ganga and Gyan Ganga, existing till then.
Six pillars of Arth-Ganga identified are: Promotion of Natural Framing on 5 kms band either side of River Ganga; Monetisation and reuse of Treated water and sludge from the STPs; Improvement of Livelihood opportunities, particularly for women; Promotion of Tourism and Cultural heritage; People’s Participation and Building of capacities and institutions. Implementation of these initiatives is aimed to develop sustainable development model with focus on economic activities related to river Ganga. Several activities under Arth Ganga have been taken up by National Mission for Clean Ganga in coordination with various ministries/departments and other stakeholders, to achieve the goal.
While no specific short-term goals have been set, however, the long-term objective of Arth Ganga is to link people and Ganga through the economic bridge in line with river rejuvenation, by garnering people’s participation for Ganga conservation and promoting sustainable development.
This information was given by the Minister of State for Jal Shakti, ShriBishweswar Tudu in a written reply inRajyaSabhatoday.
Union Minister for Education and Skill Development & Entrepreneurship, Shri Dharmendra Pradhan, interacted with the participants from Kerala of Yuva Sangam Phase 3, currently touring Odisha, in Bhubaneswar today. Minister of State for External Affairs & Parliamentary Affairs, V Muraleedharan; Director, Indian Institute of Management (IIM) Sambalpur, Prof. Mahadeo Jaiswal and other dignitaries were also present at the event. The team has been hosted by IIM Sambalpur in Odisha. NIT Calicut is the nodal agency in Kerala.
Shri Pradhan interacted with the team, comprising 42 participants, to learn about their experience of witnessing Odisha’s rich culture, cuisine and artistic heritage. He said that he was happy to note that these young participants were proud of their vibrant culture and knowledge traditions and are eager to rediscover the common threads that bind us together.
Shri Pradhan expressed his gratitude to Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi for envisioning Yuva Sangam, which is strengthening the spirit of Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat.
As part of the ongoing phase of Yuva Sangam, exposure tours are being conducted throughout November and December 2023 wherein youth comprising mainly of students studying in Higher Educational institutions (HEIs) and also off-campus youngsters in the age group 18-30 years from across the nation will be travelling to their paired states. During their visits, delegates will receive multi-dimensional exposure to five broad areas: Paryatan (Tourism), Parampara (Traditions), Pragati (Development), Prodyogik (Technology) and Paraspar Sampark (People-to-people connect) in the host states.
Yuva Sangam Phase-III will have participation from 22 States and UTs with the following Higher Education Institutions paired to conduct the exposure tours: Central Tribal University of Andhra Pradesh-IIT Delhi; IIT Dharwad-IIT Ropar; SPPU Pune-IIT Guwahati; IIT Hyderabad-BHU Varanasi; IIM Trichy-IIIT Kota; IIM Sambalpur-NIT Calicut; IIITDM Jabalpur-IIT Kharagpur; IIIT Ranchi-NIT Kurukshetra; NIT Goa-IIT Bhilai; and IIM Bodhgaya-IIIT Surat.
Given the overwhelming response received in the first two phases of Yuva Sangam, which saw more than 2000 youth participating, Phase 3 is also expected to witness immense vigour and enthusiasm. This phase will take forth the idea behind this unique initiative under the aegis of Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat by the Government of India which intends to not just expand the intellectual horizons of young agents of change but to also sensitise them to diversity across India so as to channelize their knowledge for a more connected, empathetic and technologically robust India of the future.
Coloured in the grandeur of creativity, cinematic brilliance and art of storytelling through motion pictures, the 54thInternational Film Festival of India (IFFI), one of Asia's most prestigious film festivals, has officially commenced its mesmerizing cinematic journey in the scenic coastal paradise of Goa with a grand opening ceremony. Embracing diversity and creativity, this edition of the festival offers a spectacular and immersive lineup of films, showcasing the richness of cultures, perspectives, and narratives from across the globe. The nine day film festival has commenced with the international premiere ofCatching Dust,by award-winning British filmmaker, Stuart Gatt.
In a glorious tribute to the legendary Bollywood actress, Madhuri Dixit, was honoured with 'Special Recognition for Contribution to Bharatiya Cinema' Award by Union Minister for Information & Broadcasting and Youth Affairs & Sports Shri Anurag Singh Thakur along with MoS Information & Broadcasting, Dr. L. Murugan, and Goa Chief Minister Pramod Sawant during the inaugural function.
In Photo: Bollywood actress Madhuri Dixit awarded with ‘Special Recognition for Contribution to Bhartiya Cinema’
Govt. committed to make India the most sought-after destination for film shoots, IFFI rooted in the idea of Vasudeva Kutumbakam: Anurag Thakur
Union Minister for Information and Broadcasting Shri Anurag Thakur, in his address at the inauguration ceremony said that the power of cinema is incredible and throughout its history, Cinema has captured and chiseled ideas, imagination and innovation such that it forms the driving force for peace, progress and prosperity in a world which is increasingly distressed with division.
Highlighting several significant initiatives taken by the Government of India to augment the Media & Entertainment Sector in the country, the Minister said that the Hon'ble Prime Minister wants to make India the most sought-after destination for film-shooting and post production backed by the talent of our youth and children and the innovation of our industry leaders. The Minister added that the Cinematograph (Amendment) Bill, 2023, received approval from both the Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha. ‘‘This legislation not only broadens the legal framework, shifting its focus beyond censorship to encompass copyright protection but also introduces rigorous measures against piracy with focus on anti-piracy measures to ensure that the hard work and dedication of filmmakers does not go to waste’’, the Minister said.
Referring to the recently concluded G20 summit, the Union Minister said that the world witnessed India’s multifaceted and multi-layered development model based on development, diversity and democracy. He further said, akin to India’s approach during the G20 presidency, the main concept and theme of the 54th International Film Festival of India is rooted in the idea of “Vasudeva Kutumbakam,” which embodies the essence of peaceful coexistence where the world is one family.’
Incentive for Foreign Film production announced
Making a major announcement, the Union Minister announced an increase in the incentive for foreign film production in India from 30% to 40% of the expenditure incurred, with a raised limit from Rs 2.5 Crore to Rs 30 Crore, exceeding 3.5 million US Dollars, and an additional 5% percent bonus for Significant Indian Content (SIC). The Minister said, ‘given India’s size and vast potential there was a need for a higher incentive to attract medium and big-budget international projects’ and added ‘this paradigm shift in incentivizing film production serves as a testament to India’s commitment and support for artistic expression and reinforces our position as a preferred destination for cinematic endeavors.’
75 Creative Minds of Tomorrow
The Union Minister announced that, for the first time ever, a recruitment drive will be held under 75 Creative Minds of Tomorrow programme, opening up doors to limitless opportunities for their blossoming talents and career trajectories. Started in 2021 and now in its 3rd edition, 75 young filmmakers have been selected from 19 states, including remote areas like Bishnupur, Jagatsinghpur, and Sadarpur out of nearly 600 entries across 10 categories.
New Award in the Best Web Series (OTT) category instituted
Announcing many ‘firsts’ in the 54th edition of the festival, Shri Anurag Thakur said that for the first time and from here on, IFFI will bestow an award titled, “Best Web Series (OTT) Award” which will acknowledge and honour the transformative role of original content creators in India, celebrating their contributions to employment and innovation. A total of 32 entries have been received in 10 languages from 15 OTT platforms for Best Web Series (OTT) Award.
Film Bazaar and VFX & Tech Pavilion
The Minister announced that for the first time, IFFI has augmented the scope of Film Bazaar by introducing a well-curated “VFX & Tech Pavilion” to showcase the latest innovations from the cinema world, and a documentary section to its coproduction market to support non-fiction storytelling.
Cine-Mela
This year, for the first time, Cine-Mela will be held, showcasing an extravagant celebration of India’s rich diversity through regional films, food, music, culture and more.
Restored Classics Section
A Restored Classics Section featuring 7 world premieres of the meticulously restored masterpieces by NFDC/NFAI under the National Film Heritage Mission (NFHM) from the damaged celluloid reels of the Indian Classics has also been introduced.
Inclusivity & Entertainment for all
The Minister said thatinclusivity remains a guiding principle for 54th IFFI, as all venues for this year's festival will be equipped with facilities catering to the specially-abled. Four special screenings for our Divyangjan delegates with embedded audio descriptions and sign language provisions, adding another dimension to Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision' Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas —'Sabka Manoranjan' i.e ‘Entertainment for all.’
The Minister also announced the prestigious Satyajit Ray Lifetime Achievement Award for 2023 - Hollywood actor-producer from the United States Michael Douglas. The award will be conferred on him during the Closing Ceremony. With over 50 years in the film and television industry, Michael Douglas has received 2 Oscars, 5 Golden Globe Awards, a Primetime Emmy Award, and countless other honours.
Union Ministers of State for Information & Broadcasting Shri L. Murugan and Union Minister of State for Ports, Shipping and Waterways, Tourism Shri Shripad Yesso Naik were also present at the inaugural function.
In Image: Satyajit Ray Lifetime Achievement Award for 2023 to be conferred on Hollywood actor-producer Michael Douglas
IFFI will play a key role in promoting Goa as a film friendly destination: Goa Chief Minister
Addressing the audience at the inaugural function, Pramod Sawant, Chief Minister of Goa said that IFFI will play a key role in promoting Goa as a film friendly destination. “In recent years, the film industry of Goa has also grown by leaps and bounds and Konkani cinema has carved a place for itself at IFFI’’, he said. He said that for IFFI this year, out of 20 entries received under Goa section, the jury has selected seven films. The Chief Minister further added that Entertainment Society of Goa has floated expression of interest for setting up a film city in the state for the expansion of film making industry.
In Image: Chief Minister of Goa Shri Pramod Sawant addressing the inaugural function
During the inaugural function, the jury members were also felicitated by the Union I&B Minister Anurag Thakur in presence of MoS Dr. L. Murugan and Goa Chief Minister Pramod Sawant.
In Image: International Jury members being felicitated on the stage
For the next 8 days, Goa will be coloured in the grandeur of one of Asia’s largest film festivals. From gripping dramas to thought-provoking documentaries and avant-garde experimental films, IFFI 2023 is all set to captivate cinephiles and industry professionals alike. Renowned filmmakers, talented actors, and visionaries in the world of cinema will grace the festival, fostering discussions, collaborations, and a shared passion for storytelling.
The star-studded opening ceremony has witnessed the performance of Bollywood superstars Madhuri Dixit and Shahid Kapoor. Other Bollywood stars such as Shriya Saran, Nushratt Bharucha, Pankaj Tripathi, Shantanu Moitra, Shreya Ghoshal and Sukhwinder Singh also performed and enthralled the audiences with their scintillating performances in the opening ceremony.
Embracing diversity and creativity, the International Film Festival of India’s 54th edition promises a spectacular and immersive cinematic experience with a brilliant lineup of films, showcasing the richness of cultures, perspectives, and narratives from across the globe.
Chhath Puja is a significant Hindu festival primarily observed in the Indian states of Bihar, Jharkhand, Uttar Pradesh, and certain regions of Nepal. This ancient festival is dedicated to worshipping the Sun God, Surya, and Chhathi Maiya (known as Usha, the wife of Surya), expressing gratitude and seeking blessings for well-being, prosperity, and longevity.
Key Elements of Chhath Puja:
Celebration Duration: Chhath Puja is observed over four days, typically in the months of October or November, according to the Hindu lunar calendar.
Day 1 - Nahay Khay: The first day involves ritual bathing (Nahay) in rivers, ponds, or water bodies. Devotees clean themselves and their surroundings, and a special meal called 'Kharna' is prepared, consumed, and then observed as a fast throughout the day.
Day 2 - Kharna: Devotees observe a strict fast without water for the entire day. In the evening, after offering prayers to the Sun, they prepare kheer (sweet rice pudding) and fruits to break their fast after sunset, known as Kharna.
Day 3 - Sandhya Arghya (Evening Offering): Devotees visit a water body, usually a river or a pond, during the evening to offer 'Arghya' (offerings) to the setting sun. The offerings consist of fruits, sugarcane, and homemade sweets. They stand in the water while offering prayers to the setting sun.
Day 4 - Usha Arghya (Morning Offering): On the final day, devotees gather at the riverbank before sunrise to offer 'Arghya' to the rising sun. This is considered the most important aspect of the Chhath Puja, and the rising sun is worshipped for its life-giving properties.
Rituals and Observances:
Fasting and Purity: Devotees maintain purity during the Chhath Puja rituals, often observing fasts, cleanliness, and following specific dietary restrictions.
Chhath Songs and Mantras: Traditional Chhath Puja songs and mantras dedicated to the Sun God are sung during the rituals, reflecting devotion and gratitude.
Cultural Celebrations: The festival is characterized by a rich cultural heritage, including traditional attire, folk dances, and vibrant gatherings along riverbanks during the sunrise and sunset rituals.
Significance:
Chhath Puja is considered a way to express gratitude to the Sun God, who sustains life on earth, and seek blessings for the well-being, prosperity, and happiness of family members.
It is believed to cleanse the mind, body, and soul and is considered highly auspicious and spiritually uplifting.
Chhath Puja is not just a religious festival but also a celebration of nature, culture, and community bonding, embodying reverence for the Sun and its life-sustaining energy.
“The International Film Festival of India (IFFI) is one of the world’s 14 biggest and most prestigious ‘International Competition Feature Film Festivals’ that is accredited by the International Federation of Film Producers’ Association (FIAPF), the international body governing film festivals globally. International Film Festivals such as Cannes, Berlin & Venice are such other reputed festivals, accredited by FIAPF under this category. The annual cinematic extravaganza has been home to the best of world and Indian Cinema for years with stalwarts from the film industry of India as well as from those around the globe gracing it as delegates, guests and speakers said Shri. Prithul Kumar, MD NFDC and Joint Secretary Films, Ministry of Information and Broadcasting. He was speaking at the Curtain Raiser Press Conference for the 54thInternational Film Festival of India here in Panaji today. Also present at the Press Conference were Mrs. Delilah M. Lobo, Vice Chairman, ESG, Ms. Ankita Mishra, CEO, ESG, Ms. Monideepa Mukerjee Director General, PIB, West Zone and Dr. Pragya Paliwal Gaur, Director General PIB.
Elaborating on this year’s edition of the festival, Shri Prithul Kumar said, “One of the highlights of IFFI is the Satyajit Ray Lifetime Achievement Award (SRLTA) presented for Excellence in World Cinema. Michael Douglas, a Hollywood Actor & Producer, who is presently one of the greatest international figure in world cinema, will be there in IFFI, to accept this prestigious award, along with his wife & acclaimed actress, Catherine Zeta-Jones.”
More than 270 films will be showcased during the festival at 4 venues – INOX Panjim, Maquinez Palace, INOX Porvorim, Z Square Samrat Ashok. The ‘International section’ of the 54th IFFI will have 198 films, even 18 more than the 53rd IFFI. It will have 13 World Premiers, 18 International Premiers, 62 Asia Premiers and 89 India Premiers. This year IFFI received a record number of 2926 entries from 105 countries, which is 3 times more international submissions than last year. ‘Indian Panorama’ section will showcase 25 feature films and 20 non-feature films from India. The Opening Film in the feature section is a Malyalam film “ Aattam”, and in the non-feature section is” Andro Dreams” from Manipur.
Speaking about the novel initiatives for this 54th edition of IFFI, Shri Prithul Kumar said, that the Best Web Series (OTT) Award has been introduced this year. Aimed at acknowledging, encouraging and honouring, the flourishing content and its creators of OTT platforms. 32 entries have been received in 10 languages from 15 OTT platforms. Certificates and a cash prize of 10 Lakhs will be given as prize money to the winning series, which will be announced in the closing ceremony.
A Docu-Montage section featuring a mosaic of compelling documentaries from around the world has also been introduced this year to mark India’s Oscar entry in the field and also to highlight the growing importance of documentaries in film making today.
Apart from this also introduced is a Restored Classics section featuring 7 world premieres of the world class restorations done by NFDC-NFAI under the National Film Heritage Mission (NFHM) from the damaged celluloid reels of the Indian Classics. Further, there will be 3 international restored films also showcased in this section.
With over 20 ‘Masterclasses’ and ‘In Conversation’ sessions with eminent filmmakers, cinematographers, and actors, IFFI this year promises to be an exciting week. The sessions will be held at the renovated & refurbished Kala Academy at Festival Mile, Panjim, Goa. Michael Douglas, Brendan Galvin, Brillante Mendoza, Sunny Deol, Rani Mukerjee, Vidya Balan, John Goldwater, Vijay Sethupathi, Sara Ali Khan, Pankaj Tripathi, Nawazuddin Siddhiqui, Kaykay Menon, Karan Johar, Madhur Bhandarkar, Manoj Bajpayee, Kartiki Gonsalves, Boney Kapoor, Allu Aravind, Theodore Gluck, Gulshan Grover and others will be participating in the sessions this year
Started last year, the Gala Premiers initiative is being expanded this year with 12 gala premiers and 2 exclusive web series premiers. These film premiers at IFFI would have their actors and talent walk the red carpet of IFFI to promote their films.
The 217th Edition of the NFDC Film Bazaar” will have expanded scope of its verticals with a VFX & Tech Pavilion, introduction of Documentary & Non-Feature Projects/Films, the “Knowledge Series” and ‘Book to Box Office’. All in all, there will be more than 300 international film projects curated and showcased this year in the 17th edition of the Film Bazaar for production, distribution or sales.
In the 54th edition of IFFI this year the 75 Creative Minds of Tomorrow (CMOT) candidates will also have professional classes especially curated by the masters of cinema and a “Talent Camp” for recruitment will be organised with more than 20 leading companies.
There will also be facilities at the festival to ensure that specially-abled festival delegates can access all the screening and other venues. Making festival an inclusive and accessible avenue for everyone is a step taken towards inclusivity.
IFFI is not just a showcase of cinematic excellence but also a celebration of cultural diversity. IFFI Cine-mela initiative will be a spectacular addition to the cinematic festivities, where IFFI attendees & even others such as locals & tourists not registered for IFFI, can also enjoy exciting activities while celebrating the magic of cinema, arts, culture, crafts and food. An exhibition has been set up by the Central Bureau of Communication, Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, Government of India which will allow cine enthusiasts to learn about films through interactive displays. Entry is free for all. Open Air Screenings will also be held for the public at three locations along with initiatives such as Caravans, Shigmotsav, Goa Carnival, Selfie points, IFFI Merchandise and others to enhance the IFFI as one of the biggest cultural extravaganza of India for the world.
Ms. Ankita Mishra, CEO, ESG, briefed those present regarding the various logistical arrangements made for the delegates as well as local persons for smooth functioning of the 54th edition of IFFI. This includes facilities for parking for the opening ceremony, free transportation between festival venues and procedures for booking of various screenings and sessions.
Ms. Monideepa Mukerjee, Director General, PIB West Zone briefed the media regarding various facilities available for them. She also spoke about the novel initiatives taken by PIB for this edition of IFFI. This inclused organisation of a film appreciation workshop for media and introduction of Konkani translation for all PIB IFFI releases.
Ms. Delilah M. Lobo, Vice Chairman, ESG concluded the conference by stating that best films from around the world will be showcased at IFFI and encouraged Goans to make most of the opportunity at their doorstep.
Union Minister for Education and Skill Development & Entrepreneurship Shri Dharmendra Pradhan laid foundation stone of the Academic Administrative building and Girls and Boys hostel building, quarters, and sports facilities at the Central Sanskrit University, Shree Sadashiva Campus, Puri, Odisha. He also inaugurated a three-day International Seminar titled ‘Lakshmi Puran of Balaram Das: A New Discourse on Equity, Empowerment & Emancipation’ at the Campus. Vice Chancellor, Central Sanskrit University, New Delhi, Prof. Shrinivasa Varakhedi; Director, Central Sanskrit University, Shree Sadashiva Campus, Puri, Prof. Atul Kumar Nanda; Former Vice Chancellor, National Sanskrit University, Tirupati, Prof. Harekrushna Satapathy; other academicians, dignitaries, scholars, and students were also present at the function. Sanskrit translation of the Lakshmi Puran was also released during the event.
While delivering the keynote address as the Chancellor of the CSU, Shri Pradhan mentioned how the Central Sanskrit University, Puri, has created its own identity in promoting Sanskrit language. He also expressed his gratitude to Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi for starting a new practice by giving priority and national language status to all Indian languages along with Sanskrit. Shri Pradhan informed that the projects worth Rs 100 crore, being launched today, will be utilised to connect Indian languages and Vedas with the modern education system.
Shri Pradhan stated that India is a country of many rich languages along with ancient languages like Sanskrit and Tamil. He also emphasized that in contemporary times, the relevance of the eternal Indian knowledge tradition and Vedic literature is even greater.
While speaking on the importance of Lakshmi Puran, Shri Pradhan highlighted how by assimilating the knowledge, values and message of Vedas, we can move towards social justice, women empowerment and women-led development. He hoped that the Central Sanskrit University would work to connect new generations with Indian languages, literature and heritage including Sanskrit.
Shri Sadashiv Campus, Puri, is one of the largest and premier campuses of the Central Sanskrit University, spread over 15.28 acres, accommodating an Academic and Residential Complex. For the development of Sanskrit, Rs.100 crore has been sanctioned by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi.
Laxmi Puran, a devotional lyrical poetry composed by the great saint poet, Balaram Das, appeared in the 15th Century A.D. in Puri, Odisha. Balaram Das is known as the “Balmiki” of Odisha because of his “magnum opus” “Ramayan” in the Odiya language. He belongs to the “Panchasakha” era of Odiya literature known for the promotion of devotion and Brahma Jnana. The major contemporary themes deliberated in the panel discussion sessions of the Seminar were women empowerment; women-led development; new social order eliminating caste discrimination; impact of Lakshmi Puran on Odiya culture and literature; Jagannath Culture defined by Lakshmi Puran; duty and devotion to the Lord and nation; power of Supreme nature: God’s surrender; and revisiting Indian epics in today’s context.
The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) reaffirmed its dedication to food safety and innovation by organizing an interactive session on June 7th, 2023 (Wednesday) at Vigyan Bhavan, in honor of World Food Safety Day. The event witnessed the participation of Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya, the Union Minister for Health and Family Welfare. The event was also attended by the Minister of State for Health and Family Welfare Prof S.P. Singh Baghel.
At the event, Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya unveiled the 5th State Food Safety Index (SFSI), which evaluates the performance of states and union territories across six different aspects of food safety. The release of this index coincided with the interactive session. Launched in 2018-19, the SFSI aims to foster healthy competition and catalyze positive change in the food safety ecosystem throughout the country, ultimately ensuring the provision of safe and wholesome food to all residents.
Recognizing the achievements of various states and union territories, Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya felicitated the winners based on their rankings for the year 2022-23. Among the larger states, Kerala secured the top ranking, followed by Punjab and Tamil Nadu Among the smaller states, Goa emerged as the leader, followed Manipur and Sikkim Additionally, Jammu and Kashmir, Delhi and Chandigarh secured the first, second, and third ranks respectively among the union territories. Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya also commended states that demonstrated significant improvement in their State Food Safety Index scores.
Furthermore, the Union Health Minister honored the winners of the Eat Right Challenge for Districts - Phase II. These districts showcased outstanding efforts in implementing plans to improve the food environment and raise awareness about food safety. Remarkably, most of the districts with exceptional results were located in Tamil Nadu, Madhya Pradesh, West Bengal, Uttar Pradesh, and Maharashtra. Out of the 260 participating districts, 31 successfully achieved a score of 75% or higher.
To commemorate the 75th anniversary of India's Independence, as well as the International Year of Millets, the FSSAI envisioned organizing Eat Right Millets Melas across the country. These melas serve as platforms to showcase the diversity of cuisines, as well as millet recipes, in the country. In recognition of the outstanding efforts made by states and union territories, certificates of appreciation were presented to those states who have successfully conducted or Eat Right Millets Melas in their districts.
Dr Mansukh Mandaviya announced that 25 lakh food business operators will be trained by FSSAI in the next 3 years to ensure that food quality standards are met across the country. He also announced the setting up of 100 Food Streets across the country which meet the quality benchmark for food safety, hygiene, and nutrition. “Food quality is a part of wellness”, Dr Mandaviya remarked.
Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya conveyed his heartfelt appreciation for the invaluable contributions made by the members of the Scientific Committee and Scientific Panels. He emphasized their pivotal role in shaping evidence-based policies and regulations concerning food safety. In this regard he said, “The expertise and recommendations of these esteemed professionals have been instrumental in formulating effective strategies to address emerging challenges and ensure the highest standards of food safety across the nation. This gathering provides a platform for scientific experts to engage in thoughtful discussions and deliberations regarding food safety regulations, as well as the standards-setting process.” In setting food safety standards for the country, the Minister said that we should look at our own traditions, and heritage in terms of diet, lifestyle, seasonality of food products, so we can set our own food standards in the world.
Dr. Mandaviya also unveiled several innovative initiatives by FSSAI, including the Rapid Food Testing Kit (RAFT) portal. This portal aims to streamline the operations of the RAFT Scheme, ensuring transparency and accountability. Applicants can now conveniently apply for approval online, and all steps, from application processing to certificate issuance and renewal, can be carried out electronically. This digitalization promotes a paperless operation of the RAFT scheme, which was launched in 2019 to encourage the adoption of advanced technologies for food testing, screening, and surveillance purposes.
As part of the event, the Union Health Minister released three manuals designed to enhance food safety practices nationwide. These manuals include the Manual of Methods of Analysis of Foods - Fish & Fish Products, Manual of Methods of Analysis of Foods - Cereal and Cereal Products - 2nd edition, and Manual of Methods of Analysis of Foods - Beverages: Tea, Coffee & Chicory.
These manuals are tailored to align with the latest technological advancements in food analysis, ensuring the safety and quality of food products. Stakeholders in the food industry, including food businesses, regulatory officials, and consumers, will benefit from the valuable guidance provided in these manuals.
Prof. SP Singh Baghel while congratulating the winners said, “Awards not just limited to certificates, but it has a larger impact. It also places greater responsibility on you as you go forward to do something even bigger.” On the importance of food safety, he said, “No matter how remote a place is, it boasts of fast food stalls, hence guaranteeing food safety standards becomes even more important in ensuring the health of our citizens.”
The event was attended by distinguished guests, including Aradhana Patnaik, Joint Secretary, Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Shri G. Kamala Vardhana Rao, CEO FSSAI, Dr. Harinder Singh Oberoi, Advisor (Science & Standards, CODEX), FSSAI, prominent members of the Scientific Committee and Scientific Panels of FSSAI, senior officials from the State Food Safety Departments and Municipal Corporations/Smart City Offices, professionals in food and nutrition, development agencies, food businesses, and other senior officials of FSSAI.
The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) has 3696 monuments under protection, which are spread, throughout the country. These monuments not only exhibit the rich cultural heritage of India but also play a significant role in fostering the economical growth. In order to sustain the rich cultural legacy, the heritage sites require time to time enhancement of the amenities. To this end and to further enhance the experience of visitors, ASI launched “Adopt a Heritage 2.0” programme on 4th September 2023 at Samvet Auditorium, IGNCA, New Delhi. Union Minister of Culture, Tourism and DoNER Shri G Kishan Reddy, who attended the launch programme virtually, urged all entities to come forward and help in better upkeep and rejuvenation of India's rich cultural heritage, in line with the vision of 'Virasat Bhi, Vikas Bhi’.
He further said that 'Adopt a Heritage 2.0' programme seeks to foster collaboration with corporate stakeholders through which they can contribute to preservation of these monuments for the next generations.
Under this programme, ASI invites corporate stakeholders to enhance the amenities at the monuments by utilizing their CSR funds. The programme is a revamped version of the earlier scheme launched in 2017 and clearly defines the amenities sought for different monuments as per AMASR Act 1958. The stakeholders can apply for adopting a monument or specific amenities at a monument through a dedicated web portal with URL www.indianheritage.gov.in, which contains details of monuments sought for adoption along with gap analysis and financial estimation of amenities. Union Minister of State for Culture Meenakashi Lekhi, Union Culture Secretary Govind Mohan and Director General of ASI, K. K. Basa, were present on the occasion.
Minister of state for Culture, Smt. Meenakashi Lekhi, elaborates the importance of cultural heritage in shaping the identity. She said that G20 Presidency is an opportunity to showcase the Cultural heritage of our country. She said that he process for selection will be carried out after due diligence and discussions with various stakeholders and assessing the economic and developmental opportunities at each monument.
The ‘Adopt a Heritage 2.0’ programme seeks to foster collaboration with corporate stakeholders through which they can contribute in preserving these monuments for our upcoming generations”, said the minister. The process for selection will be carried out after due-diligence and discussions with various stakeholders and assessing the economic and developmental opportunities at each monument.
The selected stakeholders will develop, provide and maintain amenities in hygiene, accessibility, safety and knowledge categories. In doing so, they will get an opportunity to be recognized as a responsible and heritage-friendly entity. The term of the appointment will be for a period of five years initially, which may be further extended up to five years.
Further, a user-friendly mobile app, named ‘Indian Heritage’ also launched on the same day, which will showcase the heritage monuments of India. The app will feature state-wise details of monuments along with photographs, list of public amenities available, geo-tagged location and feedback mechanism for citizens. The launch will be in a phased manner, with the ticketed monuments launched in Phase I, followed by the remaining monuments. An e-permission portal, with URL www.asipermissionportal.gov.in for obtaining permission for photography, filming and developmental projects on monuments was also launched. The portal will fast-track the process for obtaining various permissions and solve operational and logistical bottlenecks involved.
India is a land of rich heritage, culture, history, and geography. Indian culture is a heritage of social norms, ethical values, traditional customs and belief systems, artifacts, political systems, and technologies that originated in the Indian subcontinent. India is a part of Asia and forms a peninsula which means it is surrounded by 3 water bodies that are ‘The Arabian Sea’, ‘ bay of Bengal’, and ‘Indian Ocean ’. Over the years, numerous styles of art, architecture, painting, music, dance, festivals and customs have developed in India and this wide variety has made the Indian culture unparalleled to which the entire world still looks up to. The cultural heritage of India still flourishes maintaining its original features together along with changes ,a key indicator of its strength.
Salient Aspects of Indian art forms, literature, and architecture from ancient to modern times
There are 3 types of Indian Arts. ‘Performing Arts’ include different types of classical dances that are ‘kathak’, ‘Bharatnatyam’, ‘Manipuri’, etc., music, theatre, and puppets. ‘Visual arts’ include ‘historical architecture’, ‘sculpture’, and ‘paintings’. Literary Arts have a mission to engage readers, support writers, and inspire the next generation with great literature.
In ancient times, art was produced to promote religious activity. From the 2nd century BC, the Ajanta caves in the Aurangabad district of Maharashtra are the ancient and magnificent caves where we can find the arts of Buddha and other gods and goddesses. Mughal paintings and Rajputana paintings and arts from the 14-16th century are the most beautiful works done by Indian artists.
Literature engages people with writings in different languages of India like Tamil, Sanskrit, Hindi, etc., expressing shared tradition, cultural experiences, and Indian heritage.
Indian architecture is the greatest artistic glory. Indus valley civilization is the oldest Indian architectural civilization.
AJANTA CAVESINDUS VALLEY CIVILIZATIONMUGHALRAJPUTANA
Modern Indian history from about the middle of the eighteenth century until the present
After the death of the most popular Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb in 1707, the Mughal authority weakened. They were unable to rule India as other emperors ruled. The last emperor of the Mughal Empire, Bahadur Shah Zafar (Emperor from 1837-57) was known to be the weakest. He was the son of Akbar shah II.
The history of modern India begins in the middle of the eighteenth century with the beginning of the freedom struggle, which finally concluded in the form of an independent India.
BAHADUR SHAH ZAFAR [1837-1847]
REVOLT OF 1857
The revolt of 1857 was the conscious beginning of the Independence struggle against the colonial tyranny of the British. There are various names for the revolt of 1857 – India’s First War of Independence, Sepoy Mutiny, etc. The revolt began on May 10, 1857, at Meerut as a sepoy mutiny. It was initiated by sepoys in the Bengal Presidency against the British officers. This war of Independence marked the end of rule by the British East India company. Post this, India was directly ruled by the British government through representatives known as Governor-General. Rani Lakshmi Bai of Jhansi, Sepoy Mangal Pandey and many other fighters fought for the India's first freedom movement.
Formation of Indian National Congress 'Indian National Congress', byname 'Congress Party', broadly based political party of India. Formed in 1885, the Indian National Congress dominated the Indian movement for independence from Great Britain.
Formation of Indian National Army 'Indian National Army' was formed by Netaji Subhash Bose in 1942.
INA TRIALSINC
The Freedom Struggle — its various stages and important contributors/contributions from different parts of the country.
PARTITION OF BENGAL [1905]
Indian nationalism was gaining in strength and Bengal was the nerve centre of Indian nationalism in the early 1900s. Lord Curzon, the Viceroy (1899-1905), attempted to ‘dethrone Calcutta’ from its position as the centre from which the Congress Party manipulated throughout Bengal, and indeed, the whole of India. The decision to partition Bengal into two was in the air from December 1903.
Congress party – from 1903 to mid-1905 – tried moderate techniques of petitions, memoranda, speeches, public meetings and press campaigns. The objective was to turn to public opinion in India and England against the partition.
However, Viceroy Curzon 1905 formally announced the British Government’s decision for the partition of Bengal on 19 July 1905. The partition took effect on 16 October 1905.
THE SWADESHI MOVEMENT [1905-1908]
The movement popularised the use and consumption of indigenous products. Indians started ditching British goods for Indian products.
Women, students, and a large section of the urban and rural population of Bengal and other parts of India became actively involved in politics for the first time with Swadeshi Movement.
The message of Swadeshi and the boycott of foreign goods soon spread to the rest of the country.
The militant nationalists led by Bal Gangadhar Tilak, Bipin Chandra Pal, Lajpat Rai and Aurobindo Ghosh were in favour of extending the movement to the rest of India and carrying it beyond the programme of just Swadeshi and boycott to a full-fledged political mass struggle. For them, the aim was Swaraj.
In 1906, the Indian National Congress at its Calcutta Session presided over by Dadabhai Naoroji, declared that the goal of the Indian National Congress was ‘self-government or Swaraj like that of the United Kingdom or the Colonies.
There were differences in the ideologies with the congressmen who were popularly known by the names Moderates and the Extremists. They had differences of opinion regarding the pace of the movement and the techniques of struggle to be adopted. This came to a head in the 1907 Surat session of the Congress where the party split (the two factions re-joined later).
This period also saw a breakthrough in Indian art, literature, music, science and industry.
It was, perhaps, in the cultural sphere that the impact of the Swadeshi Movement was most marked. The songs composed at that time by Rabindranath Tagore, Rajani Kanta Sen etc became the moving spirit for nationalists of all hues.
In art, this was the period when Abanindranath Tagore broke the domination of Victorian naturalism over Indian art and sought inspiration from the rich indigenous traditions of Mughal, Rajput and Ajanta paintings.
In science, Jagdish Chandra Bose, Prafulla Chandra Ray, and others pioneered original research that was praised the world over.
The Swadeshi period also saw the creative use of traditional popular festivals and melas as a means of reaching out to the masses. The Ganapati and Shivaji festivals, popularized by Tilak, became a medium for Swadeshi propaganda not only in Western India but also in Bengal.
Another important aspect of the Swadeshi Movement was the great emphasis given to self-reliance or ‘Atmasakti’in various fields meant the re-asserting of national dignity, honour and confidence.
Self-reliance also meant an effort to set up Swadeshi or indigenous enterprises. The period saw a mushrooming of Swadeshi textile mills, soap and match factories etc.
One of the major features of the programme of self-reliance was Swadeshi or National Education. In 1906, the National Council of Education was established. The vernacular medium was given stress from primary to university level.
Corps of volunteers (or samitis as they were called) were another major form of mass mobilization widely used by the Swadeshi Movement. The Swadesh Bandhab Samiti set up by Ashwini Kumar Dutt was the most well-known volunteer organization of them all.
SPLIT IN CONGRESS [1907]
The main public leaders of the two wings, Tilak (of the Extremists) and Gokhale (of the Moderates) were aware of the dangers of disunity in the nationalist ranks.
A split was avoided in 1906 by choosing Dadabhai Naoroji as presidentship of INC in the Calcutta session. Also, four compromise resolutions on the Swadeshi, Boycott, National Education, and Self-Government demands were passed. However, the hope of a united Congress was short-lived.
The Extremists wanted to extend the Swadeshi and the Boycott Movement from Bengal to the rest of the country but Moderators opposed.
The Extremists were fumed by the rumours that the Moderates wanted to scuttle the four Calcutta resolutions. This created friction among them which led to the split at the Congress session was held on 26 December 1907 at Surat, on the banks of the river Tapti. The Indian National Congress split in December 1907. By 1907, the Moderate nationalists had exhausted their historical role. They failed to meet the demands of the new stage of the national movement, even failed to attract the younger generation.
Post-independence consolidation and reorganization within the country.
When the British decided to quit India, the Indian National Congress (INC) and the Muslim League did not come to any conclusion and was unable to make a united front for independence.
For creating a consensus, Britain sent the Cabinet Mission to India. Muslim League did not agree on the proposals of Cabinet Mission, and Jinnah proclaimed “Direct Action Day” on 16th August 1946.
Violence erupted on both sides of the borders. To stop the violence and to avoid a civil war situation, Congress accepted the partition plan. On 14th August 1947, India got divided into the dominions of India and Pakistan. Later, the Islamic Republic of Pakistan was further divided, and a new dominion of the People’s Republic of Bangladesh was created in 1975.
The Indian Independence Act 1947 made the necessary provision for the independence of India and Pakistan. India chose to become a secular country, whereas Pakistan decided to become an Islamic County. The actual geographic demarcation of the areas between India and Pakistan was entrusted upon by Sir Cyril Radcliffe.
POST-PARTITION OF INDIA AFTER 1947
After independence, the world saw one of the most abrupt and haphazard transfers of people in human history. There were brutal killings, rapes, atrocities in the name of religion on both sides of the border.
In an estimate, about 80 lakh people were forced to migrate across the border to a new place. Also, around 10 lakh people were killed during Partition in religious violence.
India created a department of rehabilitation for the resettlement of refugee in various refugee camps.
PRINCELY STATES ISSUE
The Sardar Patel assumed additional charge of the newly created states department in Jun 1947 with V.P. Menon as its Secretary.
In its first step, Patel appealed to the princes whose territories fell inside India to join the Indian Union in at least three subjects which can affect the common interests of the country, namely, defence, foreign affairs and communications.
There were 565 princely states at that time. Integration of the princely states of Hyderabad, Junagadh, Jammu & Kashmir and Manipur proved more difficult than the rest.
History of the world
INDUSTRIAL REVOLUTION
The Industrial Revolution was a period of major industrialization and innovation during the late 1700s and early 1800s. The Industrial Revolution began in Great Britain and quickly spread throughout the world.
The era saw new changes in chemical manufacturing, iron production, textile production, as well as across many other industries. The rapid development of steam power and water power were two of the core driving factors of the industrial revolution. It was a turning point in human history, changing how products were produced and the overall standard of living for a vast majority of the population.
WORLD WAR I AND II
World war I started in 1914 and ended in 1919. World war II started in 1939 and ended in 1945. Both wars became the major attack for humanity.
The world war II was the most deadliest war of all time. In 1945, US dropped Atom bombs on the two trading centers i.e. Hiroshima and Nagasaki of Japan. This led to the loss of lakhs of civilians and soldiers.
COLONIZATION AND DECOLONIZATION
Colonialism is a political-economic fact whereby different nations discovered, conquered, settled, and exploited large zones of the world. Decolonization is about “cultural, psychological, and economic freedom” for Indigenous people with the goal of achieving Indigenous sovereignty — the right and ability of Indigenous people to practice self-determination over their land, cultures, and political and economic systems.
Capitalism, Socialism and Communism
'Capitalism' is defined as a system of governance where the government has to play various roles including administrative functionalities, and the facilitator of capitalism and the private players own and control the assets for private gain based on the laws of the country. It treats labors as human capital that is free to work for income and may further invest his money to generate more capital.
Effects of capitalism on society: 1. Capitalism ensures economic growth as it empowers both manufacturers and consumers and keeps money in rotation. 2. It ensures the accessibility of goods and services on a competitive price and helps to improve the standard of living in the country. 3. Capitalism paved the wave for LPG reforms in the world and provided opportunities for the labour force to opt for global employment opportunities, which have further shrunk the global boundaries.
'Socialism' is a politico-economic ideology which beliefs in the public ownership of means of production and distribution based on a plan formulated by a central authority. Effects of socialism in society 1. Helps in creating a welfare society where all the basic needs of people (food, clothes and shelter) are fulfilled by the State on very affordable prices. 2. Providing employment is the State’s responsibility. Thus, everyone gets a job based on his/her capabilities, education and skills. 3. Establishes the supremacy of the State, thus, making them arbitrary. 4. Lack of check and balance on the bureaucracy leads to increased corruption in society.
'Communism' can be defined as the ideology which leads to a classless society based on the equal rights for everyone, irrespective of the class they belong to (the labour or the bourgeoisie), on the means of production. Effects of communism in society 1. The ideology of communism supports a society without rulers, but until it is achieved all the power will lie with the dictator government so formed, which will further lead to their oppression. For example, the Rule of Hitler and the event of the holocaust. 2. In communist nations, the difference between the official claims and societal realities is vast. The dictator government controls the flow of information and every sort of communication channel which cut-offs the society with the outer world.
Salient features of Indian Society, Diversity of India
Indian society is a pluralistic society with a complex social order characterized by a multitude of ethnic, linguistic, religious, and caste divisions. National unity and integrity have been maintained even through sharp economic and social inequalities have obstructed the emergence of egalitarian social relations. It is this synthesis which has made India a unique mosque of cultures. Thus, India present seemingly multicultural situation within in the framework of a single integrated cultural whole.
The following are the features: 1. The multi-ethnic Indian society A society with the co-existence of a wide variety of racial groups is a Multi-ethnic society. India is home to almost multiple racial profiles like Nordic, Dinaric, Proto-Australoid, Mongolian, etc. 2. Multilingualism- salient feature of Indian society India is home to many native languages, and it is also common that people to speak and understand more than one language or dialect, which can entail the use of different scripts as well. India’s 2011 census documents that 121 languages are spoken as mother tongues, which is defined as the first language a person learns and uses. 3. Multi-religious society India is a cradle of world religions whose ancestors have preached and practiced almost all major religions of the world giving rise to worldly beliefs, practices, rites, rituals, ceremonies, and institutions. In India, hindus, muslims, sikhs and christians live. 4. Caste system in Indian society The social division of society in India is peculiar. Unlike many other civilizations in the world where the society was divided into race, ethnicity, or clans, Indian society is broadly divided into a hierarchy of caste.
Salient features of Diversity in India
India as a nation is a classic example of it as despite having multiple geographical, religious, linguistic, cultural, and racial diversities, India has always stood up as an integrated nation.
Role of women and women’s organization, population and associated issues, poverty and developmental issues, urbanization, their problems and their remedies.
Women in India have played a major role in various spheres of life over the past many centuries, but their acceptance in these spheres has been a crucial issue. Thus, the involvement of women in social, political and economic scenarios has brought in a major change in the terms of equality.
Gender Equality: With equal opportunities for all genders, multiple women have been an inspiration for young girls to dream and aspire to become big. Women in political spheres: Several women leaders have actively participated in the Indian freedom struggle, occupied important positions in the Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha, state legislatures; women also have acquired the position of the Prime Minister and President of the country. Indira Gandhi was the first women prime minister of India. Economic roles: The neglect of women’s economic roles results in the exploitation of women workers, unequal wages, higher employment, etc., though are a cause of concern. Social Issues: A National Commission for women (NCW) has been set up with an intention to establish an equal and just livelihood for women by making legal and constitutional amendments for women in India
Population
The current population of India is 1,342,528,871 (1.34 billion) people and it is the second most populous country in the world, while China is on the top with over 1,415,489,506 (1.41 billion) people. Out of the world's 7 billion people, India represents almost 17.85% of the world's population.
Poverty and development issues
Development deals with the alleviation (or the eradication) of poverty. Poverty is inter-related to other problems of underdevelopment. Types of poverty 1. Absolute poverty 2. Relative poverty 3. Situational Poverty 4. Generational poverty 5. Rural Poverty 6. Urban Poverty Remedies of poverty in India 1. Population control 2. Increase in employment 3. Equal distribution of income 4. Regional poverty 5. Problem of distribution 6. Fulfillment of minimum needs of poor 7. Development of Agriculture
Urbanization
The population residing in urban areas in India, according to the 1901 census, was 11.4%, increasing to 28.53% by the 2001 census, and is now currently 34% in 2017 according to The World Bank. According to a survey by UN, in 2030 40.76% of country's population is expected to reside in urban areas. Remedies of urbanization
Rapid Mass Transport (RMT) for better transportation system.
Reform of the urban water sector.
Efficient use of urban land – Scientific town planning & Sustainable development of urban planning needed.
Long term strategic urban planning with the overall regional planning perspective.
The environmental sustainability of urban development.
Investment in new urban infrastructure assets and maintenance of assets.
Need to strengthen urban governance
To strengthen the ‘soft infrastructure’
Improvements of urban utilities such as water and sewerage NUHM (National Urban Health Mission) for better urban public health.
Need to fulfill the basic needs of the urban poor.
Migration needs to be regulated
Smart city concept if implemented effectively
Provision of Urban Amenities to Rural Areas (PURA)
Population control
Innovation needed to control pollution and waste handling
Rurbanization: Provide like urban facilities in rural areas or make rural areas smart is called rurbanization.
Effects of globalization on Indian society.
Globalization is a process of increasing interdependence, interconnectedness and integration of economies and societies to such an extent that an event in one part of the globe affects people in other parts of the world.
Impact of Globalization on Indian Culture a. Homogenization versus Glocalization of culture b. Revival of culture
Impact of Globalization on Women in India a. Positive impact of Globalization on women b. Negative impact of Globalization on women
Social empowerment, communalism, regionalism & secularism.
Social empowerment is understood as the process of developing a sense of autonomy and self-confidence. It also involves acting individually and collectively to change social relationships and the institutions and discourses that exclude poor people and leads to an increase in poverty.
Communalism is a philosophical notion and causes competition, ferocity, and tension among different communities. It manifests as an expression of the superiority of one’s community combined with intolerance of different communities.
Regionalism is a psychic phenomenon. It is built around an expression of group identity, as well as loyalty to the region. It presupposes the concept of development of one’s region without taking into consideration the interest of other regions. It prohibits people from other regions to be benefitted from a particular region.
Salient features of world’s physical geography.
Geomorphology (the study of the earth’s surface features)
Glaciology (the study of glaciers)
Coastal Geography (the study of the coastal regions)
Climatology (the study of climates and climate change)
Biogeography (the study of the geographic patterns of species distribution)
Distribution of key natural resources across the world; factors responsible for the location of primary, secondary, and tertiary sector industries in various parts of the world (including India).
Natural resources are material and constituent formed within environment or any matter or energy that are resulting from environment, used by living things that humans use for food, fuel, clothing, and shelter.
Factors responsible for the location of primary, secondary, and tertiary sector industries
Raw material: Availability of natural resource that can be used as raw material.
Technology: To turn the resource into an asset with value.
Power: To utilize the technology.
Labour: Human resource in the area who can function as labor to run the processes.
Transport : Road/rail connectivity.
Storage and warehousing.
Marketing feasibility.
Characteristics of land and soil.
Climate.
Precipitation and water resources.
Vulnerability to natural resources.
Important Geophysical phenomena
In our natural environment, various forms of disasters occur in severe intensity. All disasters threaten the humans or societies and had their impact from one decade to another.
Disasters can be categorized as
1.Natural Disasters such as Volcano, Tsunami, Earthquake; landslides 2.Human Made Disasters 3.Human Induced Disaster 4.Natural Disasters
Earthquake Earthquake is a vicious tremor, rolling or hasty shock on surface of earth's crust, sending out a sequence of shock waves in all directions from its place of source which is known as epicenter.
Tsunami
Tsunami is devastating natural disaster and immensely affects the economic and living conditions of region where it hits.
Volcano
A volcano is type of vent or smokestack which transmits molten rocks called as Magma from depth to earth surface.
Cyclones
A Cyclone is described as geophysical phenomenon on the surface of planet and atmospheric system of low barometric pressure accompanied by strong winds that revolve counter-clockwise in northern hemisphere and clockwise direction in southern hemisphere.
