Monday, 3 April 2023

After PM Lotay Tshering’s China faux pas, Bhutanese King on three-day India visit

New Delhi: Bhutanese King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck began his three-day visit to India on Monday. He was received by India’s External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar at the airport in New Delhi.

The King will hold talks with President of India Droupadi Murmu and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday.

Jaishankar in a post on Twitter said that the visit of the Bhutanese king will “further strengthen the close and unique India-Bhutan partnership”

Wangchuck is accompanied by Bhutan's foreign minister Tandi Dorji and other senior officials.

Wangchuck's meeting with PM Modi is being keenly watched as it would be the first such high-level meeting between the two leaders since Bhutan-China boundary talks made rapid progress.

The Bhutanese King met the Indian PM last in September 2022, when he stopped over in Delhi on his way to attend UK Queen Elizabeth II's funeral.

Bhutan King's crucial India visit

The visit of Wangchuck comes in the wake of Bhutanese Prime Minister Lotay Tshering's comments that China has equal say in finding a resolution to the border dispute in Doklam which India believed has been illegally occupied by China.

"It is not up to Bhutan alone to solve the problem," said Bhutanese PM last month in an interview with the Belgian Daily La Libre.

Tshering's statement was contradictory with his 2019 remarks to national daily The Hindu, where he said no side should unilaterally act near the existing tri-junction point.

The plateau lies at the tri-junction of India, China and Bhutan and has been a source of tension between the three countries since the 2017 Doklam standoff.

The Doklam plateau is considered an important area for India's strategic interest.

In 2017, Indian and Chinese troops were involved in a tense standoff in Doklam tri-junction that lasted for 73 days.

The face-off began after China tried to extend road towards Mount Gipmochi and the adjoining Jhampheri ridge. Bhutan claimed that the area of Doklam plateau where China was constructing the road was part of its territory.

The Indian soldiers entered the Doklam plateau to restrict China from illegally constructing the road, saying it would impact its overall security interests.

The Indian Army asserts that letting the Chinese troops to reach Jhampheri would give them a clear line of sight to the Siliguri corridor.

In October 2021, Bhutan and China signed an agreement on a "three-step roadmap" to expedite negotiations to resolve their festering boundary dispute.

Bhutan shares over 400-km-long border with China and the two countries have held over 24 rounds of boundary talks in a bid to resolve the dispute.

India-Bhutan relations

India and Bhutan have special friendship and cooperation which is defined by mutual trust and understanding. The visit of the Bhutanese King will give both the countries a chance to evaluate whole range of bilateral cooperation.

During the Covid pandemic, India was the first country to respond Bhutan’s medical needs and had sent 13 consignments of medical supplies to the nation.

Also, New Delhi was the first to provide Indian-made Covishield vaccines to Bhutan.

India has persistently been Bhutan's top trading partner and is also the leading source of investments for the country.

India had earmarked $282 million for Bhutan’s development during 2022-23.

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Sunday, 2 April 2023

NMACC launch: Deepika, Ranveer laud the 'world-class' initiative

Mumbai: The grand opening of the Nita Mukesh Ambani Cultural Centre (NMACC) in Mumbai witnessed an array of personalities from different walks of life in attendance. Also present was Bollywood’s power couple Deepika Padukone and Ranveer Singh, who hailed the “world-class” event while speaking to Anusha Dandekar, who was hosting the red carpet.

“(It was) truly world-class. This is something we never experienced before. There were so many moments we teared up and so many moments when we had goosebumps. We just had our minds blown,” Deepika said.

Sharing his experience, Ranveer said, “The acoustic quality of this theatre is unprecedented. I have never experienced this in any theatre in the world. I could feel every drumbeat. It was a sensory experience… It made me feel so proud to be an Indian.”

Besides them, several other Bollywood and Hollywood celebrities like Priyanka Chopra, Nick Jonas, Gigi Hadid, Kiara Advani, Sidharth Malhotra, Kareena Kapoor, Saif Ali Khan, Karan Johar, Zendaya, Tom Holland, and many others were in attendance at the grand event.

Mr Perfectionist of Bollywood, Aamir Khan also arrived in style at the grand event and said, “I’m most excited you know since Nita and Mukesh told us about this very special theater that they have been making. Since then I’ve really been wanting to come and see it and today’s the first day, it’s the opening night and we’re also looking forward to the play that they have produced and which Froze (Abbas Khan) has directed. So it promises to be a real spectacle.”

Priyanka Chopra also showered praises on the cultural centre and said, “It can help the cultural community tremendously, especially in a city like Mumbai. I have lived in Mumbai for a very long time and it’s a stat city, we live above each other. It’s really hard to find that space when you have to put up a show. The fact that they have taken time to build something so beautiful and international looking, I can’t wait to go and see it.”

The NMAAC

Strategically located in the city’s central precinct of Bandra Kurla Complex, the Nita Mukesh Ambani Cultural Centre (NMACC) is a first-of-its-kind, multi-disciplinary
space in the sphere of art, conceived to spark artistic curiosity within the community.

It presents the rare alchemy of craft and culture which is drawn from centuries of tradition.

NMACC is Nita Ambani’s vision of a better international destination for Indian artists, performers, and creators than what is currently offered in the US or Europe. Three theatres and 16,000 square feet of custom exhibition space will be found inside the four-story NMACC. The largest of them will have a 2,000-seat Grand Theatre and a stunning chandelier with 8,400 Swarovski crystals in the shape of a lotus.

(With inputs from agencies)

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'Celebrating India’s diverse cultural traditions': Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani inaugurates Art House at NMACC, Mumbai

Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani inaugurated the Art House at the Nita Mukesh Ambani Cultural Centre in Mumbai on Sunday.

The Art House is a dedicated visual art space that opened with Sangam/Confluence, a unique exhibition celebrating India’s diverse cultural impulses and traditions.

Earlier in the day, Nita Ambani unveiled the ‘India in Fashion: The Impact of Indian Dress and Textiles on the Fashionable Imagination’ exhibition at the cultural centre.

She also launched a book called India in Fashion, edited by renowned fashion journalist Hamish Bowles and published by Rizolli Books.

More about the Art House

The four-storey dedicated art space, situated right next to the fountain of joy at the
Jio World Centre has been designed to showcase treasures of global and Indian art
to the audience in India through a shifting array of installations and exhibits. In a
nutshell, it enables India to see the world through a wider cultural lens.

The Cultural Centre’s facade – a larger-than-life cuff bracelet design – is a reflection of India’s rich heritage.

It comprises 16,000 sq. ft. of versatile space, built as per global museum specifications. The modular façade makes for easy installation. Not just art, the space lends itself well to tech programmes, workshops and educational events as well.

The NMAAC

Strategically located in the city’s central precinct of Bandra Kurla Complex, the Nita
Mukesh Ambani Cultural Centre (NMACC) is a first-of-its-kind, multi-disciplinary
space in the sphere of art, conceived to spark artistic curiosity within the community.

It presents the rare alchemy of craft and culture which is drawn from centuries of
tradition.

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Nita Ambani launches 'India in Fashion' at Day 3 of NMACC opening in Mumbai

Mumbai: After two days of celebrations, it is the final day of a weekend-long grand launch of the Nita Mukesh Ambani Cultural Centre in Mumbai.

Nita Ambani on Sunday launched the ‘India in Fashion: The Impact of Indian Dress and Textiles on the Fashionable Imagination’ exhibition at the cultural centre.

The event saw the attendance of a number of fashion dignitaries from across the country. Nita Ambani also launched a book called India in Fashion, edited by coveted fashion journalist Hamish Bowels and published by Rizolli Books.

Isha Ambani, daughter of Nita and Mukesh Ambani, shared her insight at the event. She said, “When my mother and I along with Hamish were conceptualising this exhibition, we were clear in our vision that it had to encompass and showcase the wide-reaching influence of Indian fashion. It had to be an exhibition that touched upon the historical influence of India.”

Watch the launch:

About India in Fashion

‘India in Fashion’ explores the layered impact that traditional Indian dress, textiles and craft have had on international fashion sensibility since the 18th century. The first exhibition of its kind in India, the show will also trace the birth and development of the contemporary Indian fashion community.

The exhibition will feature works of pioneering Indian designers like Abu Jani Sandeep Khosla, Anamika Khanna, Anita Dongre, Anuradha Vakil, Manish Arora, Manish Malhotra, Rahul Mishra, Ritu Kumar, Sabyasachi Mukherjee, Sanjay Garg, and Tarun Tahiliani. These will be complemented by the works of their global counterparts like Christian Dior, Cristóbal Balenciaga, Elsa Schiaparelli, Gabrielle ‘Coco’ Chanel, Jean-Philippe Worth, Mainbocher, and Yves Saint Laurent.

Tickets for NMACC events can be booked at NMACC’s official website – https://nmacc.com/ or www.bookmyshow.com

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Saturday, 1 April 2023

'A tribute to my mother's lifelong devition to arts': Isha Ambani welcomes audience to grand launch of NMACC

Mumbai: Isha Ambani, daughter of Nita and Mukesh Ambani, delivered a speech at the Nita Mukesh Ambani Cultural Centre in Mumbai.

Taking the centre stage, Isha Ambani talked about her mother’s vision to create a platform for performers and visitors, for dreamers and creators, for one and all.

“Bringing this centre to life has been an absolute labour of love and joy. It’s named after my mother, the NMACC is a tribute to her lifelong devotion to the arts,” she said.

Also read: WATCH: Nita Ambani delivers speech at NMACC Mumbai

She added, “As a trained classical dancer, this stage has always been my mother’s temple. But her love for the arts has transcended beyond medium or form. Over the years I have seen her dedicate herself to reviving, preserving and promoting traditional Indian arts and crafts.”

She said that NMACC is the embodiment of Nita Ambani’s vision.

Defining how the first-of-its-kind cultural centre would cater to artists and audiences, she said, “The NMACC is not only the fulfilment of a lifelong dream, it is also the beginning of a journey. A journey to rejuvenate and reimagine creative experiences and expressions. A journey to encourage and nurture talent.”

Also read: Nita Mukesh Ambani Cultural Centre opens doors to public with a packed calendar; here’s what to expect

Concluding her speech, she opened the stage for The Great Indian Musical: Civilisation to Nation.

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WATCH: Nita Ambani delivers speech at NMACC Mumbai

Mumbai: Nita Ambani on Saturday made a speech at the inauguration of the Nita Mukesh Ambani Cultural Centre in Mumbai.

After a night of the star-studded grand opening, it was time to open the doors of NMACC. Nita Ambani performed gracefully at the centre’s Grand Theatre.

“On behalf of our Cultural Centre, and the entire team of Civilization to Nation, a heartfelt thank you for being our first and most spectacular audience! It has been a huge pleasure and an honour to present this musical chronicle of India. As they say, India is where it all started,” she said.

Don’t miss: ‘Showcasing best of India to world’: Nita Mukesh Ambani Cultural Centre opens in Mumbai

She added, “Our culture has not just survived, but thrived, over thousands of years. We are one of the oldest living civilizations of the world. Also, the most diverse. And at the same time, we have one of the world’s youngest populations. Today, we are in the Amrit Kaal of Modern India.”

Describing the motto of NMACC, Nita Ambani said, “Culture weaves the threads of mutual understanding, tolerance and respect that knit communities and countries together. Culture brings hope and happiness to humanity. Therefore, as an artist, I hope this centre becomes a
space that celebrates the arts, the artists, and the audience. A space where our people can feel proud of their heritage.”

“We envision this centre to become home not only to the finest talent from Indian cities, but also from our small towns and remotest villages. I truly hope this space continues to inspire and empower our future generations,” she added.

Also read: Nita Mukesh Ambani Cultural Centre opens doors to public with a packed calendar; here’s what to expect

Talking about her performance at the NMACC Grand Theatre, Nita Ambani said she felt the same excitement as a six-year-old Nita.

“As I performed on stage in this Grand Theatre today, I couldn’t help but feel the same excitement of the Nita, when she was six years old! Even after all these decades of being on stage, I still feel the same energy and gratitude I felt at that young age. Be it for my Bharatnatyam performances, or the college plays that I worked on. I still remember my first play in college was with a young talented actor called Feroz. And as they say, life comes a full circle… I’m delighted to have my friend Feroz right here with me today, as the director of the first theatrical presented by the NMACC!” she said.

“Before I end, I want to thank my family for their faith and trust in me. I especially wish to remember my father-in-law, Shri Dhirubhai Ambani, who believed in women’s empowerment and encouraged me to think big and pursue my dreams. I was deeply moved while performing on the bhajan Raghupati Raghav, a favourite of my father Shri Ravindrabhai, whose gentleness and compassion continue to guide me,” she said in conclusion.

“And now, with immense pride and joy, I declare the Nita Mukesh Ambani Cultural Centre open.”

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WATCH: Nita Ambani’s graceful performance at NMACC Mumbai

Mumbai: After last night’s star-studded grand opening ceremony of the Nita Mukesh Ambani Cultural Centre left everyone awestruck, a video of Nita Ambani’s graceful performance at the centre’s Grand Theatre has gone viral on social media.

In the post shared by NMACC’s Twitter handle, Nita Ambani can be seen dancing to ‘Raghu Pati Raghav Raja Ram’ for the premiere of ‘The Great Indian Musical: Civilization to Nation.’

Watch the video:

The Grand Theatre

Meticulously designed for immersive experiences, every performance at The Grand
Theatre is magical, thanks to the combination of a world-class integrated Dolby Atmos surround sound system and virtual acoustic system, ingenious seating arrangement, and a programmable lighting system, which, enhanced by 8,400+ Swarovski crystals creates a unique, multi-dimensional experience.

Staying true to the founder’s vision of ‘Bringing the best of India and the World’, the
size of the theatre’s stage is designed to host major travelling productions and touring houses from anywhere across the globe.

Don’t miss: ‘Showcasing best of India to world’: Nita Mukesh Ambani Cultural Centre opens in Mumbai

The most technologically advanced theatre in India, the Grand Theatre has 2,000 seats across three levels. While every viewing experience is designed to be unparalleled, the 18 Diamond Boxes add an extra layer of exclusivity, with a spectacular complimentary lounge and dedicated food and beverage services.

The Great Indian Musical: Civilization to Nation

The opening act is a performance titled ‘The Great Indian Musical: Civilization to Nation’, by Feroz Abbas Khan.

Conceived and directed by the creator of ‘Mughal-e-Azam’, this marquee production captures the spirit of India, expressed as a nation, through its rich repository of arts.

Also read: Nita Mukesh Ambani Cultural Centre opens doors to public with a packed calendar; here’s what to expect

It will feature more than 350 artists including a 55-piece live orchestra led by the Budapest Scoring Orchestra. This production brings together exceptional Indian talent such as Ajay-Atul (music), Vaibhavi Merchant (guest choreographer), Mayuri Upadhya (lead choreographer), Samir & Arsh Tanna (choreographers), Manish Malhotra (costume design) and internationally celebrated, multiple award-winners such as Donald Holder (lighting design), Neil Patel (scenic design), Gareth Owen (sound design) and John Narun (projection design).

This performance will take place at The Grand Theatre, which has a seating capacity of 2,000 people and is the largest of the three theatres at the newly built centre.

Tickets for NMACC events can be booked at NMACC’s official webside – https://nmacc.com/ or www.bookmyshow.com

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