North Bombay Sarbojanin Durga Puja Samiti Unveils the Grandeur of Durga Puja 2023 in their 76th year with Protima sthapna with the traditional folk lift

North Bombay Sarbojanin Durga Puja Samiti Unveils the Grandeur of Durga Puja 2023 in their 76th year with Protima sthapna with the traditional folk lift

North Bombay Sarbojanin Durga Puja Samiti, one of the oldest and most prestigious Durga Puja celebrations in the city, is set to astound devotees and visitors alike with its 76th-year celebrations. This year's event promises to be an unparalleled spectacle, celebrating the rich culture, art, and spirituality of the Thai Temples.

The highlight of this year's festivities is undoubtedly the awe-inspiring 20-feet high Protima of Goddess Durga, complete with an intricately crafted Mukut. Without the Mukut, the idol stands tall at an impressive 17 feet which is 30 feet long in breadth. What's more, this magnificent sculpture weighs over 3 tons, necessitating the use of forklifts and cranes during the immersion process. The Protima takes seven rounds before the immersion.

The theme of "Thai Temples" for this year's Durga Puja has been masterfully curated, drawing inspiration from the rich and ornate designs found in the temples of Thailand. The Art Director, Kiran, has painstakingly incorporated Thai aesthetics into the Pandal, ensuring a captivating Thai ambiance for all visitors.

North Bombay Sarbojanin Durga Puja Samiti takes immense pride in offering a holistic experience to its devotees and visitors. The USP of this celebration lies in every facet of their hospitality and organization. From the best entertainment programs featuring renowned celebrities performing at the Pandal to an authentic Bhog experience that replicates the warmth of a Baraat, Samiti's commitment to excellence is unwavering.

Visitors at this year's event will be treated to a one-of-a-kind service where they are made to feel like cherished guests. While waiting in the queue, free water is provided, and the air-conditioned waiting area ensures comfort throughout the experience. The Pandal itself is centrally air-conditioned, wheel-chair friendly, and offers valet parking for convenience.

Hygiene and cleanliness are of utmost importance, with dedicated housekeeping ensuring the toilets remain spotless and dry. Renowned artists and singers grace the stage, offering performances that are truly priceless. What sets this Puja apart is that North Bombay Sarbojanin Durga Puja Samiti believes in making these performances accessible to all by not selling tickets. This means that even an ordinary person can enjoy a live performances by artists like Sonu Nigam, Shaan, Mika, and more.

With an incredible footfall of over a lakh of people, this Durga Puja celebration is nothing short of a grand extravaganza. The spirit of unity, devotion, and celebration that defines North Bombay Sarbojanin Durga Puja Samiti's 76-year legacy continues to shine brighter with each passing year.

North Bombay Sarbojanin Durga Puja Samiti was established in 1948. The founder members were Shri Sasadhar Mukerji, Ashok Kumar, Kishore Kumar, Bimal Roy, Hemant Kumar, S D. Burman, Joy Mukerji, Pradeep Kumar, Ram Mukerji, and many other celebrities. The Puja was started with Maa Durga's blessing & it is still going strong because of the good workers like Supratim Sarkar, Navnit Narayan, Sanjoy Mukerji, Prasun Sikdar Shivdutt,, Souvik, Samrat Mukerji.

This year's Durga Puja celebration at North Bombay Sarbojanin Durga Puja Samiti is truly a star-studded extravaganza. Bollywood and music industry celebrities are set to grace the occasion with their presence, making it an event of unparalleled glamour and entertainment.

Debu Mukerji of North Bombay Sarbojanin Durga Puja Samiti quoted saying “We welcome all to our puja to seek maa’s blessings. Celebrations at North Bombay Sarbojanin Durga Puja Samiti will be bigger, better & grander this year"

Durga Puja is celebrated from Shasti to Bijoya Dashami

MAHASHASHTI: On this day,  Maa is welcomed with much fanfare. In the evening, the Kulo is decorated with Paan, Sindur, Alta, Sheela (stone), Dhaan, etc..and amidst the beats of Dhaak and sound of Shaankh, Maa is welcomed…  This is called Amontron and Adhivas -Maa’s Bodhon… Maa is being welcomed

MAHASAPTAMI: On this day the   Kalash (Earthen Pot) is placed with green Coconut and  Mango  Leaves.  This is surrounded on all sides by a red thread and tied. This is called KALASH STHAPAN. The Kalash is an earthen Pot because Maa’s Murti is made of Ganga clay and Maa’s PRAAN (or life) is concentrated in the Pot. So the Pot is the symbol of Maa.  The  Puja starts with praying to  Ganapati,  followed by prayers to  Maa.  Another name of Maa Durga is NABA PATRIKA, which means nine trees i.e.Banana tree, Kochu tree, Haldi tree, Jayanti tree, Branch of Bel tree, Dalim tree ( pomegranate) are tied together. The double Bel fruit is tied to the Banana tree. This is then taken to a river bank or sea and given a bath. When it is brought back it is draped in a white and red sari with sindur and it now looks like a married lady with her head covered. This is called KOLA BAHU. Many have a misconception that KOLA BAHU is the wife of Ganapati but actually, she is MaaDurga or Naba Patrika... Ganapati’s mother

MAHA SNAN: On this day Maa Durga is given a bath. First, a vessel is placed in front of the Murti; a mirror is kept in the vessel so that the reflection of Maa is seen in the mirror. The   Priest applies Haldi and Mustard oil on the mirror, as though they are applying it on Maa before the bath. In earlier times when there was no soap, haldi and mustard oil were used for baths. The Pujari puts different kinds of water, i.e. Coconut water, Chandan, Ganga jal, Sugar cane juice, and water from the seven holy seas to give her a bath. During this time, mud from every region, as well as mud from the Prostitute’s door is essential. After the bath the Pujari puts dhaan- durbar and a new sari with Maa’s name written on  the mirror which is then placed on the Bedi (the place of worship)

PRAN PRATISTHA: This means bringing life into the mirror.  The Pujari takes Kusha and flowers in the right hand and touches Maa from head to foot, and with Mantra Path life is brought into the Murti, Mirror, and Kalash.

MAHA AGAMAN: Every year Maa comes either on a Palki or an Elephant or a Boat a Dola (Swing), or a Horse, etc.  In this Bengali year 1423, Goddess Durga’s arrival on a horse signifies, indicates the “bad horse”- The most destructive mood, hence all her path is trampled. The Goddess arrives & leaves the earth on the same vehicle, indicating natural calamities, social unrest, and political upheavals. Maa Durga’s agaman- is on the horse & gaman – on a horse.

Welcome: The puja to welcome Maa is done with 16 items- Ashan  Swagatam [ Welcome ], Paddyo [ Water  To  Wash The  Feet ], Argho, Achmoniyom, Madhu Parkam, Purnar Achmaniyam, Abharan [ Shringar], Sindoor, Gandha [ Scent ], Pushpa[ Flower],  Pushpa Mallya [ Garland], Billo Patra [Bel Leaf], Billopatra Mala[ Garland Of Bel Leaf], Dhoop, Deep, Kajal, Naibiddo, Bhog And Mishti [Sweet], Paan, Supari.

PUSHPANJALI [PRAYER OFFERING]: Puspanjali means offering prayers at Maa’s feet to give everyone a long life, fame, good luck, health, wealth, and happiness. The devotees request Maa to protect them from all evil, sadness, greed & temptations.

MAHA ASHTAMI PUJA: Maa is now Maha Gauri- The Puja starts with Mahasnan & Maha gauri puja. The Puja is done to give Maa the strength of the 64 Yoginis. This is a Puja of 9 pots. Then the weapons of Maa are worshiped.

SHANDHI PUJA: This is the puja when Ashtami Puja ends and Navami Puja begins, so the name Shandhi Puja. This is considered to be the most vital time, meeting (shandhi)of Ashtami and Navami puja. The duration of this Puja is 45 minutes. At this moment  Maa is CHAMUNDA.  Pushpanjali: Prayer offering. Bhog is offered which consists of fruits and sweets is offered to Maa, followed by  “NEET  BHOG”, consisting of  Rice, Ghee, Dal, Fried Vegetables, Chutney, and Payesh.  This prasad is later distributed amongst the devotees which is called KANGALI BHOJAN.

At this time 108 diyas are lit and 108 lotus are offered to Maa. There is a famous story that Lord Ram prayed to Maa Durga offering 108 lotus at her feet in order to defeat Ravan. But to his surprise he found one lotus missing, to replace it, he wanted to sacrifice his eye and pray to Maa..at that moment Maa appeared in front of him and stopped him..returning the missing lotus to him.  She then blessed him for his ” VICTORY”.

MAHA NAVAMI PUJA: On this day, Maa is SIDDHI DHATRI. This Puja starts with  Ganapati Puja and then puja of all the other DEV and DEVIS are performed.. followed by Maha Snan of Maa.

BIJOYA DASHAMI:- On this day Maa had defeated and killed Mahishashur.

DEVI PUJA:- Bhog with curd, honey, and milk is offered to Maa.. this is called CHARANAMRIT. The pujari sitting on the Asan takes a flower near the sacred pot and keeps it in the Northern direction because Maa is from KAILASH.

Then the pujari takes the sacred mirror that was on the vessel and performs the ritual of Visharjan. This is the same mirror that was used to welcome Maa because her reflection is in the mirror.

SINDUR  UTSAV: The married ladies apply sindur on Maa’s forehead and offer sweets after which all the other ladies apply sindur on each other’s forehead. This is followed by  KANAK ANJALI when Maa is departing back to her husband’s abode.

VISHARJAN:- During the Visharjan of the Murti, all the devotees either go to a river bank or sea and immerse the Murti in the water.

SHANTI JAL: – The sacred pot is brought back from the river/sea filled with the water where the Murti is immersed. Then the pujari chants the Mantra and sprinkles water with the help of mango leaves on the head of all the devotees for peace and happiness.

DASSERA: This is the day of rejoicement, where youngsters touch the feet of their elders seeking their blessings, and sweets are distributed.

BUSINESSWOMAN-PHILANTHROPIST SUDHA REDDY CHAMPIONS INDIAN JEWELLERY ON THE GLOBAL STAGE

BUSINESSWOMAN-PHILANTHROPIST SUDHA REDDY CHAMPIONS INDIAN JEWELLERY ON THE GLOBAL STAGE

Sudha Reddy, Hyderabad’s eminent business personality and ardent philanthropist, played host to the magnificent Shiv Narayan Jewellery exhibit on the 12th of October in the vibrant city of London at The Wallace Collection. 

Sudha Reddy played the perfect host at an exclusive London soirée that witnessed the coming together of celebrated personalities from the realms of fashion, jewellery, media, and high society for a preview of Shiv Narayan’s exquisite and regal piece.

Seen in attendance were Joseph Muscat - Former Prime Minister of Malta, Deputy Mayor Councillor Schmetterliqng, Princess Katarina de Silva, and Princess Corinna Sayn Wittgenstein, among other dignitaries and celebrities. 

This bespoke event championed the spirit of cross-border collaborations as the immaculately dressed industrialist and British Fashion Council patron Reddy, a visionary with a mission to bridge the divide between the splendour of Indian heritage and its global accessibility, expressed great pride and passion in celebrating Indian artistry and craftsmanship.

The evening commenced with a lavish champagne reception, fostering an ambience of camaraderie among the distinguished guests, affording them a unique opportunity to briefly connect with the brilliant minds behind the brand.

Commenting on her association with the brand, Mrs Reddy said "I am filled with pride today, as I move closer to my goal of spearheading cross-cultural appreciation of Indian culture and craftsmanship on a global scale. As a proud patron of the British Fashion Council and an impassioned connoisseur of art and fashion, my vision is to create a platform that leverages my resources to close the divide between India's exquisite and intricate artistry and make it more accessible worldwide. At the same time, I seek to honour and celebrate the rich traditions, craftsmanship, and innovative spirit of both nations. I firmly believe that beauty should be shared, and India's art and culture deserve global recognition and appreciation. So let's embark on this exhilarating journey and try to champion Indian culture to even greater heights!"

The brand's London debut showcased a tribute to the resplendent world of Indian jewellery. The exceptional pieces were filled with green emerald creations and the otherworldly charm of aurum wonders. 

At the centre of the exhibition, a blend of intricate artistry and ethereal craftsmanship captivated everyone present. Among the treasures showcased, the iconic Ganesha pendant stood tall, among the other pieces proudly holding ten Guinness World Records.

Reddy, a distinguished business tycoon and philanthropist, renowned for her commitment to charitable causes and an ardent lover of the arts and fashion, is no newcomer to the glamorous world of fashion, having left an indelible mark on illustrious red carpets such as the Met Gala, Paris Haute Couture, and the Doha Jewellery & Watches Exhibition with her inimitable presence. As a patron of the British Fashion Council, her global impact extends far beyond the realm of fashion, solidifying her status as an iconic figure who seamlessly melds philanthropy with the elegance of haute couture. 

 

Varun Tej and Manushi Chhillar Unveil Stunning New Poster

Varun Tej and Manushi Chhillar Unveil Stunning New Poster for 'Operation Valentine’!

An Air Force action thriller, inspired by true events – now, isn't that thrilling? To add to the excitement, Varun Tej and Manushi Chhillar took to their social media platforms and shared an enticing poster of their film on the eve of the India vs. Pakistan match. 

‘Operation Valentine’ has been shot in both Hindi and Telugu, marking Varun Tej's debut in Hindi films.

‘Operation Valentine’ is a patriotic, edge-of-the-seat entertainer and will showcase the indomitable spirits of our Air Force heroes on the frontlines and the challenges they faced as they fought one of the biggest, fiercest aerial attacks that India has ever seen. 

 ‘Operation Valentine’ is produced by Sony Pictures International Productions, Sandeep Mudda’s Renaissance Pictures, and co-produced by God Bless Entertainment (Vakil Khan) and Nandakumar Abbineni. Shakti Pratap Singh Hada, a seasoned ad-film maker and VFX aficionado will be marking his directorial debut with this film. Written by Shakti Pratap Singh Hada, Aamir Khan, and Siddharth Raj Kumar, the film will be released in Telugu and Hindi on December 8, 2023.

‘Atal’ coming soon only on &TV!

 &TV to present ‘Atal’

~A show narrating the untold stories of Atal Bihari Vajpayee’s childhood~

In the annals of Indian history, several Prime Ministers have emerged as transformative leaders, steering their nation through pivotal moments with great vision and resolve. Their tenures were marked by a series of monumental decisions that shaped the country’s destiny and propelled it to the forefront of global influence. Through strategic vision and decisive actions, these leaders etched their names in history, leaving an indelible legacy that defined an era of unprecedented success and progress. One such prominent leader was the late Atal Bihari Vajpayee.

Atal Bihari Vajpayee was an influential statesman and Indians hold his legacy in high regard. &TV is set to explore the untold aspects of his childhood through its new show, ‘Atal’. Produced by Euphoria Productions, the show will deep dive into the formative years of a leader who played a pivotal role in shaping India's destiny. Set against the backdrop of British colonial rule in India, the show will delve into the intricacies of Atal Bihari Vajpayee’s childhood, shedding light on the incidents, beliefs, and challenges that molded him into the leader that he was.

 

The storyline will highlight his relationship with his mother, who deeply influenced his beliefs, values, and thinking. On one hand, India was facing slavery under British rule, and on the other, it was facing internal strife and division of wealth, caste, and discrimination. A dream envisioned by Atal's mother of a united India was a dream he deeply cherished. This storyline unfolds the inspiring story of Atal Bihari Vajpayee, a boy from humble beginnings who became one of India's most prominent leaders.

  

‘Atal’ coming soon only on &TV!

Abhishek Agarwal's Vision: Tiger Nageswara Rao to Break Barriers with Simultaneous Sign Language Release

Abhishek Agarwal's Vision: Tiger Nageswara Rao to Break Barriers with Simultaneous Sign Language Release

The film will be released in sign language on 65+ screens in India and abroad

Acclaimed producer Abhishek Agarwal, who has previously delivered successes like The Kashmir Files and Karthikeya 2, is now all set to make a big impact on the silver screen with Mass Maharaja Ravi Teja's

Tiger Nageswara Rao. With the trailer garnering immense love, audiences are eagerly waiting to witness Ravi Teja as India's biggest thief. 

What came as a surprise was the simultaneous release of the film in sign language as well. This positive initiative is spearheaded by none other than producer Abhishek Agarwal, whose idea is to make this film available to everyone worldwide. Tiger Nageswara Rao will be released in sign language across 65+ screens in India and overseas.

The film is based on true rumors and stars Ravi Teja, along with Anupam Kher, Renu Desai, Jisshu Sengupta, Murali Sharma, and the leading ladies, Gayatri Bhardwaj and Nupur Sanon, in prominent roles.

Directed by Vamsee, 'Tiger Nageswara Rao' is produced by Abhishek Agarwal under the banner of Abhishek Agarwal Arts. It is co-produced by Mayank Singhaniya and Archana Agarwal. This Pan-Indian film starring Ravi Teja is set to hit theaters on October 20, 2023, as a Reliance Entertainment release in North India.

Experience the Magic of 'Garbo' this Navratri

Experience the Magic of 'Garbo' this Navratri: Lyrics by Honourable Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, Produced by Jackky Bhagnani!

The dynamic music label Jjust Music spearheaded by Jackky Bhagnani, is setting the spirit for the auspicious festival of Navratri. Taking inspiration from the Honourable Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi’s poetry to make a celebratory garba track, Just Music has created a majestic song titled ‘Garbo’ for everyone to enjoy. Just Music takes immense pride in having the privilege of associating with this exceptional project and presenting it to the world.

The beautiful lyrics penned by the Honourable Prime Minister speak about the festival of Navratri that unites people across states, embracing cultures and traditions. 'Garbo' promises to be a melodious tribute to the joy and spirit of Navratri. The song is beautifully sung by the talented Dhvani Bhanushali with the music of Tanishk Bagchi.

Jackky Bhagnani's immense talent in music production is sure to bring Honourable Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi's vision to life, making it an unforgettable addition to Navratri celebrations.

Jackky shares, "Being a part of this remarkable musical project with Honourable Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi is a moment of immense pride and joy for me and Just Music. 'Garbo' is a tribute to our cultural heritage and the essence of Navratri, and it's a testimony to the binding strength of the music. It is an exceptional and humbling experience for me, and I am confident that 'Garbo' will become an integral part of Navratri celebrations for many years to come.."

India is ready to dance to the 'Garbo' tunes this Navratri season, thanks to this tribute by Honourable Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi.

WWF-India’s Earth Series reiterates the importance of education and involvement of individuals in environmental and wildlife conservation

WWF-India’s Earth Series reiterates the importance of education and involvement of individuals in environmental and wildlife conservation

·       The unique series witnessed a fascinating talk by Dr. Divyabhanusinh Chavda, a renowned wildlife conservationist and author.

·       Dignitaries from WWF-India, Telangana State Government officials, Bureaucrats, environmentalists & and conservationists, nature lovers, and students joined the event.

WWF-India, a leading nature conservation organization, conducted its second talk of the “Earth Series: Conservation Matters”, an initiative that centers around critical environmental issues and wildlife conservation. As part of the event, Dr. Divyabhanusinh Chavda, a renowned wildlife conservationist and an author, delivered his lecture titled “A Tale of Two Cats”. Through his talk, Dr. Chavda enthralled the audience by mainly focusing on lions and the need for their conservation, as the Asiatic Lion is now only restricted to India. The talk also revolved around cheetahs, the fastest animals on Earth. The lecture also realized the cultural ties and importance the cheetah holds in Indian society.

The WWF-India Hyderabad office organized the Earth Series talk show that serves as a platform to address pressing environmental challenges, exchange innovative solutions, and foster collaboration among like-minded individuals and organizations committed to conserving the planet's biodiversity. By bringing experts and enthusiasts from diverse backgrounds together, the series aims to build a powerful network of change-makers striving for a sustainable future for generations to come.

 Mr. Anil Kumar Epur, Trustee, WWF-India, and, Chairman, of WWF-India Hyderabad Office Advisory Board, said that “WWF-India has been at the forefront of environment protection and nature conservation. The Earth Series: Conservation Matters is a pioneering initiative that draws people with a shared cause together. This will expand the horizons of knowledge and further the cause.  People, including students, are participating due to their commitment to environmental protection. Through this series of events, we aim to not only celebrate the current conservation measures but also inspire others to adopt similar practices. Today just being aware is not enough, we need to put the knowledge gained into action.”

 

Mr Jayant Tagore, President, of Hyderabad Golf Association has committed support to the Earth Series and mentioned that the Hyderabad Golf course is not only a heritage golf course but of the only one in the world to use grey water for maintaining the course.

“WWF-India has always been the pioneer in creating awareness of nature and wildlife conservation.  The Earth Series: Conservation Matters is another noteworthy pioneering event from WWF-India, and I am happy that this initiative originates from Hyderabad. The Telangana Government has always been at the forefront of nature conservation and has taken up many first-of-its-kind initiatives for environment protection”, expressed Mr. Jayesh Ranjan.

 

"I am honored to have been invited to deliver the second lecture of the WWF-India Earth Series: Conservation Matters. Having come to Hyderabad after a very long time, I am extremely delighted to see many people from all walks of life attend this talk. This demonstrates the preparedness of the Hyderabad citizens and their belongingness to nature,” expressed Dr. Divyabhanusinh Chavda.

 

The second lecture of the pioneering series, held at the Hyderabad Golf Association, witnessed an impressive gathering of individuals, distinguished ornithologists, & committed conservationists, nature enthusiasts, government officials, bureaucrats, and students, united in their dedication to environmental and wildlife safeguarding. The event's success reflects the growing global concern for the environment and wildlife conservation. WWF's Earth Series has emerged as a beacon of hope, inspiring individuals, and communities to act for a greener and more sustainable planet.