Gayathri Pariti - Business News Week

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EPIC Group forays into Indian market; appoints Colliers India to set up its first manufacturing unit in Bhubaneswar, Odisha, valued at INR 220 crore

Mar 28, 2024 by Gayathri Pariti 0 Comments #EPIC Group, #Indian market, #Indranil Basu, #Ranjan Mahtani

Bhubaneswar, 28th March 2024 – Global diversified professional services and investment management company Colliers (NASDAQ, TSX: CIGI) in India, has won an INR 220 crore Design & Build Turnkey assignment from EPIC Designers which is to set up its first manufacturing unit in the country. The Hong Kong-based sustainable fashion company has acquired 40 acres of land at the IDCO Industrial Estate in Bhubaneswar, Odisha and is looking to build a state-of-the art facility that will enable efficient business operations and align with the firm’s future business objectives.

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EPIC Group has been known to adopt modern technology and global practices to curate sustainable solutions in the apparel industry. True to its mission, the new unit will be completely Net Positive in energy and water and the landscaping will include several green spaces and zen gardens. Focused on sourcing sustainable materials, minimizing waste, and curbing its carbon footprint, this garment factory will be the first of its kind and a gamechanger for the apparel industry in India. The company intends to employ over 6000 people to run the facility.

“The facility, managed by EPIC Group’s subsidiary, Trimetro Garments India, is benchmarked against global standards and the cutting-edge facilities the company boasts across the world. We are definitely well-equipped to deliver an exceptional project that meets quality and design standards envisioned by the client, backed by years of experience and distinguished technical and strategic capabilities. The first phase spanning 338,000 sq. ft. is expected to be completed by May 2025 and the future expansion scope spans 381,236 sq. ft. We are excited to commence this noteworthy assignment and look forward to building a lasting partnership with EPIC Group.”, says Indranil Basu, Managing Director, Project Management, Colliers India.

“We are thrilled to announce plans for our first manufacturing facility in India. As a leader in sustainable fashion, expanding our operations to India was a natural next step given the country’s talented workforce and expertise in textile production. With Colliers as our partners, I am confident we will develop a world-class facility that sets a new standard for socially and environmentally responsible apparel manufacturing. Odisha’s pro-business environment and strategic location also make it the ideal destination for this significant investment. We look forward to working with Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik’s administration and tapping into the state’s abundance of qualified workers as we ramp up operations over the coming years. This new factory exemplifies our commitment to people and planet as we grow our global footprint.”, says Ranjan Mahtani, Executive Chairman of Epic Group.

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Consortium for Technical Education (CTE) and Department of Technical Education (DTE), Government of Uttar Pradesh sign MoU

Mar 28, 2024 by Gayathri Pariti 0 Comments #CTE, #DTE, #Shri. K. A. Alagarsamy, #Shri. M. Devaraj

The Consortium for Technical Education (CTE) and the Department of Technical Education (DTE), Government of Uttar Pradesh, have entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to promote awareness, enhance employability skills and stimulate innovation in Information Technology and Cybersecurity.

MoU Signing Image CTE UP GOV

The MoU outlines the framework for both parties to collaborate in instrumenting the socio-economic development of Uttar Pradesh via IT education and digital skill training programs. CTE will undertake various activities including setting up and operating a “Centre of Excellence” in IT and Cybersecurity, designing courses and curriculum by industry subject experts accompanied with interactive video-based courses, virtual labs and hands-on workshops, deploying industrial experienced instructors at CoE, providing joint certification, arranging optional industry certification, conducting faculty development programs, and offering internship opportunities.

Shri. M. Devaraj, IAS, Principal Secretary, Government of Uttar Pradesh, expressed optimism about the collaboration: “This partnership between DTE and CTE enhances skills in emerging technologies in IT and Cybersecurity. By leveraging the expertise of both parties, we aim to create a dynamic workforce and foster innovation in Uttar Pradesh.”

Shri. K. A. Alagarsamy, Director of CTE, highlighted the organization’s commitment to skill development: “We are delighted to collaborate with DTE to steer the digital awareness strategies and cultivate research and innovations in Information Technology and Cybersecurity arena. Our joint efforts will empower participants with industry-relevant skills and contribute towards the competitiveness and economic growth of the nation.”

Shri Sairaman Srinivasan, Chief Strategy Officer at CTE, emphasized the importance of the collaboration: “This MoU underscores our shared commitment to driving socio-economic development through education and innovation. By working together, we can make a meaningful impact on the lives of individuals and contribute to the growth of the IT and Cybersecurity sectors in our Country.”

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TUS, Ireland and NID Announce Strategic Collaboration to Transform Global Design Education

Mar 28, 2024 by Gayathri Pariti 0 Comments #Ireland’s, #IT Integrated, #Limerick School of Art and Design, #TUS

India, 28th March 2024 – Ireland’s Technological University of the Shannon (TUS) has announced a collaboration with India’s National Institute of Design (NID), Ahmedabad, facilitated by Education in Ireland, the national brand representing Irish Higher Education Institutions globally. The TUS and NID alliance will allow both institutions to develop joint research, projects, publications, as well as student and faculty exchanges. The collaboration was officially unveiled in the presence of Mr. Simon Coveney, Minister for Enterprise, Trade, and Employment of Ireland, who is currently leading a multi-city visit to India accompanied by a delegation of Irish academics and corporate representatives.

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Limerick School of Art and Design (LSAD) a faculty of TUS, for 170 years has been educating, inspiring and empowering people seeking a creative future. TUS is now a QS 5 Star university, having achieved the highest possible number of stars in all categories assessed. As part of the assessment process TUS is the first Irish university to achieve a QS 5 Star Arts and Culture rating as QS recognises TUS’s excellence in promoting and contributing to the arts and national culture led by LSAD.

NID is internationally acclaimed as one of the finest educational and research institutions for Industrial, Communication, Textile and IT Integrated (Experiential) Design. It is an autonomous Institution of National Importance under the aegis of the Department Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade, Ministry of Commerce and Industry, Government of India.

Minister Coveney expressed his support for the collaboration and said: “This partnership marks a significant step towards fostering greater association and academic collaboration between Ireland and India. Our two countries share an existing bond in the area of education, and this partnership will nurture the next generation of global design leaders who will drive innovation and creativity across industries.”

Mr. Donnacha McNamara, Vice President International at Technological University of the Shannon (TUS) quoted “Our partnership with India’s National Institute of Design (NID) represents a significant milestone in our commitment to fostering global collaboration and enriching the educational experiences of students and staff. Through this alliance, we aim to cultivate a diverse community of design innovators who will drive positive change and innovation on a global scale.”

Adding to this sentiment, Praveen Nahar, Director, National Institute of Design (NID), Ahmedabad said “NID, Ahmedabad, we are thrilled to forge this partnership with the Limerick School of Art and Design (LSAD) and its parent institution, Technological University of the Shannon (TUS), Ireland. Acknowledging our shared commitment to design education and research, we anticipate productive collaborations that will enhance both institutions, particularly in Communication Design, Industrial Design, Digital Design, and Design Education at undergraduate, masters, and PhD levels. We eagerly anticipate joint research endeavours, projects, publications, as well as student and faculty exchanges to propel the field of design forward.”

“LSAD has a proud legacy as one of Europe’s leading fine art, design and creative media schools and is reflected in our recent QS 5 Star rating in Arts and Culture. We are delighted to partner with NID such a prestigious University in India and global leader in design. This partnership allows us to develop both high impact and high-profile projects and student/staff exchanges. Our shared commitment to excellence and innovation in design education promises to shape the future landscape of global design leadership” added Mike Fitzpatrick, Dean of Limerick School of Art & Design (LSAD) and Director of Cultural Engagement, TUS

Both TUS and NID anticipate that this partnership will continue to strengthen over time, fostering deeper collaboration and facilitating greater exchange between the two institutions. This collaboration stands as a testament to the power of international cooperation in advancing education and driving positive change on a global scale.

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Konica Minolta Proves Excellence as a Strategic Business Partner with PowerHouse Exhibition Series

Mar 28, 2024 by Gayathri Pariti 0 Comments #Konica Minolta, #Mr Katsuhisa Asari, #PowerHouse Exhibition Series, #Unified Communication

Hyderabad, 28th March 2024: Konica Minolta, a leader in creating connected business solutions, recently organised their second “PowerHouse” exhibition in Hyderabad. The event “Igniting Innovations, Powering Possibilities,” harnessed the full breadth of Konica Minolta’s product portfolio. Konica Minolta recognized that many businesses are facing challenges with integrating different workflow systems. The PowerHouse exhibition offered solutions to address these potential roadblocks. The series of solutions aim to create a unified platform that streamlines workflows, improves communication, and promotes sustainable practices throughout organizations.

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The PowerHouse exhibition, held at Novotel in Hyderabad, featured interactive zones showcasing Konica Minolta’s wide range of solutions. These zones covered various product areas like Smart Workplace Solutions, Optimized Print Services, and Production Printers. The interactive design allowed visitors to experience Konica Minolta’s offerings firsthand.

Building on the success of the inaugural event held at Conrad, Pune, with Konica Minolta’s leadership team in attendance, including Mr. Priyangshu Das, Head of Enterprise Sales Division, Mr. Manish Gupta, Head of Product Lifecycle Management and Planning Division (Production & Industrial Business), Mr. Sanjay Monga, Head of Marketing Operation Division & Mr. S. Parameswaran Iyer, Head of Product Lifecycle Management and Planning Division (Office Business). The Hyderabad exhibition attracted a mix of valued customers and potential new clients, exceeding expectations with over 500+ attendees.

Commenting on the success of the exhibition, Mr Katsuhisa Asari, Managing Director at Konica Minolta Business Solutions India, said, “Konica Minolta understands that businesses thrive by prioritizing their core competencies. That’s why we offer intelligent business solutions that act as your trusted technology partner. We manage your IT infrastructure, data environments, and automation, freeing you to focus on what you do best. Our PowerHouse exhibition series showcases this vision. By experiencing our connected solutions firsthand, business leaders see how innovation empowers them. Each Konica Minolta solution is powerful on its own, but together they create a comprehensive and scalable ecosystem for your business success.”

The Smart Office Solutions Zone showcased a powerful combination: industry-leading printing devices, Unified Communication (UC) Solutions, and Optimized Print Services. This synergy offered a glimpse into a future of streamlined workflows and boosted employee productivity.

Unified Communication platforms streamline workflows by merging communication tools (calls, messages, meetings) into a single platform. This not only simplifies daily work for employees but also provides valuable data on communication patterns. While some specialized tools may still be needed, a unified platform offers significant benefits for most knowledge workers. These platforms are increasingly cloud-based, offering more features and easier disaster recovery compared to traditional on-premises solutions. Businesses can now attract and retain top talent regardless of location, as employees can work from wherever they’re most productive.

MOBOTIX surveillance cameras are intelligent video systems that are essentially computers with a lens. Their robust design ensures reliability outdoors, while indoor options offer exceptional value. MOBOTIX thermal cameras add another layer of safety, using change in temperature to identify potential hazards. This integrated ecosystem enhances situational awareness and operational efficiency which are the key benefits for modern businesses.

Additionally, the Smart Office Solutions Zone presented next-generation Smart MFP devices that offered cloud-integration as well as robust security. With its seamless marriage of speed, reliability, the product arsenal was a glimpse into the future, where Intelligent Information Management becomes the backbone of a thriving organisation.

The Business Application Zone brought Konica Minolta’s complete production printing workflow to life. Visitors witnessed the process unfold, starting with high-volume printers and progressing through post-press applications like UV spotting and embellishments. The zone culminated in a demonstration of precise roll-to-roll (R2R) labelling, highlighting the power of on-demand label printing. Seeing real-time label creation showcased the potential for significantly reduced lead times and minimized inventory. This streamlined workflow empowers businesses to react swiftly to changing market demands. Overall, the PowerHouse event provided a platform for customers to experience how partnering with Konica Minolta can elevate their business through efficient and responsive printing solution.

In a world increasingly defined by data and efficiency, Konica Minolta isn’t just a vendor, we are a strategic partner. Positioned as the blueprint for the future of intelligent business. Konica Minolta Business Solutions demonstrated the “Power of One” philosophy, for preparing organisations to navigate the complexities of the world of work, where digital transformation becomes knowledge, and knowledge becomes power.

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eClerx appoints Karolina Kocalevski as its new Global Chief Marketing Officer

Mar 28, 2024 by Gayathri Pariti 0 Comments #eClerx, #eClerx Services Ltd, #Global, #Kapil Jain, #Karolina

MUMBAI, NY, March 28, 2024: eClerx Services Ltd (ECLX:IN) “eClerx” has announced the appointment of Karolina Kocalevski as its new Global Chief Marketing Officer. In her role, Karolina will serve as the chief brand ambassador for the company and will be responsible for the overall development and execution of the global brand, marketing, and PR strategy. Her role will be instrumental in elevating the company’s brand positioning and accelerating growth initiatives. She will be based in New York City.

Karolina has spent over 20 years in the global B2B marketing sphere, including seven years on leadership teams in the US. She has demonstrated experience in building brand equity and successfully driving growth through account-based-marketing (ABM) and demand generation initiatives.

Karolina brings a wealth of experience from large global enterprises such as PwC, Thomson Reuters, McGraw-Hill and Deloitte, along with mid-sized private equity backed companies. She most recently served on the leadership team of Orion Innovation as VP, Global Head of Marketing and Communications, overhauling the company’s corporate brand and marketing function. Karolina holds an MBA from the Johnson School at Cornell University and a Bachelor of Business (Accounting, International Marketing) from the University of Technology, Sydney. Her diverse background and track record of success make her a valuable addition to the eClerx leadership team.

Speaking on the appointment, Kapil Jain, Group CEO for eClerx said, “We are pleased to welcome Karolina to eClerx. Her ability to drive innovation and deliver results makes her the ideal candidate to lead our global marketing efforts. Her leadership and expertise will be instrumental in shaping the company’s marketing strategy and driving continued success.”

“I am delighted to be joining eClerx in this new role and exciting chapter of innovation and growth at the company,” said Karolina. “I look forward to working with the talented team at eClerx and advancing the marketing efforts to boost global brand recognition and organic revenue growth.”

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Thums Up launches TOOFAN: Flies cricket fans on an exclusive chartered plane & Toofani tour of the ICC T20 Men’s World Cup

Mar 28, 2024 by Gayathri Pariti 0 Comments #ICC T20 Men’s World Cup, #Thums Up, #Tish Condeno, #TOOFAN

National, 28th March 2024: Thums Up, India’s homegrown beverage brand from The Coca-Cola Company, is thrilled to launch Toofan: the Thums up branded exclusive chartered plane as part of its latest campaign, ’World Cup ka Toofani Tour’ to the ICC T20 World Cup. As the official beverage partner of ICC T20 World Cup, Thums Up continues to redefine fan engagement, setting new benchmarks for fan experiences in the realm of sports.

WC Ka Toofani Tour

This year, Thums Up is taking cricket enthusiasts on a once in a lifetime adventure to West Indies on an exclusive Thums Up plane, promising an electrifying experience like never before. The campaign features India’s loved Cricket-duo: Yuvraj Singh and Virender Sehwag, encouraging consumers to scan a Thums up pack and get a chance to win a seat on Toofan. From 01st March to 30th April . Available behind select Thums Up packs that earn miles, consumers can win a chance to enter a 2 month long daily lucky draw, with one seat being given away every day.

In pursuit to further build on its long-standing association with sporting events like Olympics, Paralympics, ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup, the tour represents the brand’s dedication to championing the spirit of cricket.

Alongside the Toofani tour, Thums Up will engage fans cheering for Team India at home by giving away Indian jerseys every hour, plus other exciting prizes. The campaign will be featured prominently on all packs sized 500 ml and above, offering meticulously curated experiences beyond live cricket action.

Talking about the campaign, Tish Condeno, Senior Category Director, Sparkling Flavors, Coca-Cola India and South-West Asia said, “We are thrilled to unveil the ‘World Cup ka Toofani Tour’ campaign, to elevate fan experiences at the upcoming ICC T20 World Cup in West Indies. With the launch of the exclusive Thums Up branded plane, we’re furthering our endeavour to redefine sports excitement and engagement, crafting unparalleled memories for cricket lovers.”

Commenting on the campaign Virender Sehwag said, “I am delighted to extend my partnership with Thums Up. With each passing year, Thums Up is setting a new benchmark in fan engagement, demonstrating its unwavering commitment to fueling the fervor of cricket enthusiasts. The ‘World Cup ka Toofani Tour’ offers fans an unparalleled experience to the West Indies, in a Thums Up Chartered plane, to immerse themselves in the excitement of the ICC T20 World Cup all the way to West Indies.”

Commenting the campaign, Yuvraj Singh said, “I am thrilled to continue my association with Thums Up, the brand which has a longstanding commitment to sports. This year, the ‘World Cup ka Toofani Tour’, offers an electrifying experience for fans, with a chance to fly to the West Indies on an exclusive Thums Up Chartered plane. I’m excited to witness the excitement and energy, this journey will bring to cricket fans around the world, for the ICC T20 World Cup.”

The campaign celebrates India’s passion for cricket, fostering connection, empowerment, and collective joy throughout the tournament. With a legacy of memorable, innovative campaigns like Thums Fan Pusle and Stump Cam, Thums Up is poised to elevate the ICC experience to new heights, ensuring an enduring impact on cricket enthusiasts worldwide.

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Yash Birla shares Essential Summer Nutrition Tips for Fitness Success

Mar 28, 2024 by Gayathri Pariti 0 Comments #Electrolyte Balance, #fitness goals, #Fitness Success, #Summer Nutrition Tips, #Yash Birla

As the temperatures rise and the sun shines brighter, it’s essential to adjust your nutrition and hydration strategies to support your summer fitness goals. Yash Birla, a renowned fitness enthusiast and entrepreneur, emphasizes the importance of fueling your body with the right foods and staying hydrated during the summer months. In this article, we’ll discuss the best foods and hydration practices recommended by Yash Birla to optimize your fitness performance and overall well-being during summer.

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Hydration Is Key:

Yash Birla emphasizes the critical role of hydration in maintaining optimal performance and health, especially during hot summer days. Proper hydration helps regulate body temperature, supports nutrient transportation, and aids in muscle function. To stay hydrated:

– Drink plenty of water throughout the day, aiming for at least 8-10 glasses.
– Incorporate hydrating foods such as watermelon, cucumber, oranges, and strawberries into your diet.
– Avoid excessive consumption of caffeinated and alcoholic beverages, as they can contribute to dehydration.
Electrolyte Balance:

During intense summer workouts, electrolytes such as sodium, potassium, and magnesium are lost through sweat. Yash Birla recommends replenishing electrolytes to prevent dehydration and maintain proper muscle function. You can:

– Consume electrolyte-rich foods like bananas, coconut water, leafy greens, and nuts.
– Consider incorporating electrolyte supplements or sports drinks during prolonged exercise sessions, particularly in high heat and humidity.
Fresh Fruits and Vegetables:

Summer brings an abundance of fresh fruits and vegetables rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, which are essential for overall health and performance. Yash Birla advises:

– Including a variety of colourful fruits and vegetables in your meals to provide essential nutrients and support recovery.
– Opting for seasonal produce such as berries, mangoes, tomatoes, spinach, and bell peppers to maximize flavour and nutritional value.
– Experimenting with refreshing salads, smoothies, and fruit bowls to stay cool and hydrated while enjoying the benefits of whole foods.
Lean Protein Sources:

Protein is crucial for muscle repair, growth, and recovery, especially for individuals with fitness goals. Yash Birla suggests:

– Incorporating lean protein sources such as tofu, oats, sprouts, quinoa, and legumes into your summer meals.
– Choosing lighter protein options and incorporating them into salads, wraps, and grilled dishes for a satisfying and nutritious meal.
– Prioritizing post-workout protein intake to support muscle recovery and adaptation, whether through whole foods or protein supplements.
Healthy Fats:

While it’s important to stay hydrated and fuel your workouts with carbohydrates and protein, don’t overlook the role of healthy fats in your summer nutrition plan. Yash Birla advises:

Including sources of healthy fats such as avocados, nuts, seeds, and olive oil in your diet to support joint health, hormone production, and nutrient absorption.
Incorporating omega-3 fatty acids from fatty fish like salmon, mackerel, and sardines to reduce inflammation and promote cardiovascular health.
Avoiding excessive consumption of fried and processed foods high in unhealthy fats, which can sabotage your fitness goals and overall well-being.
Mindful Eating:

In addition to choosing nutrient-dense foods, Yash Birla emphasizes the importance of mindful eating practices to support your summer fitness goals:

– Paying attention to hunger and satiety cues to avoid overeating or undereating.
– Eating slowly and savouring each bite to enhance digestion and enjoyment of meals.
– Practising portion control and balancing macronutrients to meet your energy needs while maintaining a healthy weight.
– Being mindful of emotional eating triggers and finding alternative ways to cope with stress or boredom.
As you strive to achieve your fitness goals during the summer months, prioritize proper nutrition and hydration with guidance from Yash Birla. Focus on staying hydrated, replenishing electrolytes, consuming fresh fruits and vegetables, incorporating lean protein sources, including healthy fats, and practising mindful eating habits. By fueling your body with the right foods and staying hydrated, you can optimize your performance, support recovery, and enjoy a healthy and active summer season.

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Antica Ceramica Unveils Bathroom Wall & Floor Tiles Collection

Mar 28, 2024 by Gayathri Pariti 0 Comments #Antica Ceramica, #Bathroom Wall, #Floor Tiles Collection, #Mr. Rahul Bhugra

Antica Ceramica, a pioneer in tile design, proudly unveils its latest Bathroom Wall & Floor Tiles Collection, marking a significant evolution in bathroom design. With a keen understanding of consumer preferences, this collection caters to the diverse tastes and functional needs of modern homeowners.

Antica Bathroom Tiles Collection6

Featuring an array of styles ranging from classic to avant-garde, the collection encompasses subway patterns, tropical themes, intricate designs, and designer tiles. Each tile in the collection is meticulously crafted to marry artistry with functionality. From the timeless elegance of subway patterns to the exotic allure of tropical themes, every design reflects a commitment to both aesthetic appeal and practicality.

The wall tiles in this collection are sized at 600 x 1200 mm with a thickness of 10 mm, ensuring easy installation and compatibility with a variety of spaces. Moreover, special attention has been given to safety, with non-slip textures incorporated into the tiles, particularly vital for areas prone to moisture. Despite this emphasis on safety, the collection maintains its overall elegance and design integrity.

Mr. Rahul Bhugra, Director of Antica Ceramica, expressed his enthusiasm for the new collection, emphasizing the departure from traditional, monotonous bathroom tiles. He highlighted the emerging trends in bathroom design, noting a shift towards bold patterns, vibrant colors, and rich hues. Subway patterns, Geometric shapes, intricate mosaics, and floral motifs are increasingly favored by homeowners seeking to make a statement with their tile choices.

Another noteworthy trend embraced by this collection is the use of large format tiles. These oversized tiles not only minimize grout lines, creating a sleek and seamless aesthetic, but also visually enlarge the space, imbuing it with a sense of luxury and sophistication. Furthermore, the collection introduces texture-rich tiles, offering an opportunity to add depth and visual interest to bathroom surfaces. These tiles enhance both the aesthetic appeal and tactile experience of the bathroom, elevating everyday routines into indulgent rituals.

Antica Ceramica’s Bathroom Wall & Floor Tiles Collection represents a fusion of innovative design, functionality, and contemporary trends, providing homeowners with a comprehensive solution to elevate their bathroom spaces into exquisite retreats.

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The second edition of the Mahindra Percussion Festival transforms Bengaluru into a percussion haven resonating through the ages

Mar 28, 2024 by Gayathri Pariti 0 Comments #India-wide release, #Mahindra Percussion Festival, #Rhythms of India, #Surya, #Two Summ

India-wide release, 28th March 2024: This year, the celebration of Holi began early in Bengaluru as legendary percussionists from across the country rendered heartwarming and soul-stirring performances at the Prestige Srihari Khoday Centre for Performing Arts. In a one-of-a-kind setting, the second edition of Mahindra Percussion Festival celebrated the arrival of spring on a rhythmic note with percussive beats. The two-day festival witnessed its attendees join an exciting line-up of 80 homegrown artists in a journey through centuries-old percussion culture, subcultures and traditions of local Indian streets.

MPF'24- Swarathma

This edition of the Mahindra Percussion Festival steadfastly held onto the origins of percussion while bringing new collaborations and new energy to the audiences with a line-up of established and upcoming maestros’ voices. In their unique styles, the artists renewed focus on percussion instruments and their roots to do it full justice while exploring diverse genres and art forms. A major pull of the festival was its melting pot of traditional Carnatic compositions, Indian classical rhythms, contemporary sounds of jazz, and electronic, as well as multiple art forms like poetry, rap, Kuchipudi and Bharatanatyam dances amongst more.

The audiences were in for a treat with Charu Hariharan’s landmark performance with the Kozhikode and the Kattunaykkar (Jenukuruba) communities that brought to fore the enduring percussion traditions of the Kerala and Karnataka folk and tribes. Anantha R Krishnan and mridangam maestro Viveik Rajagopalan’s ‘Two Summ’ act brought ancient Carnatic tihais and korvais layered with electro-acoustic sounds. Joining Swarathma onstage to move the audiences with an hour-long percussive extravaganza were Karthik Mani, Thavil Raja, Madhu & Sreekanta. Alongside them were The Beat Gurus with their djembes, darkubas, didgeridoos and the Carnatic flute, while live dholak players added visceral energy to the experience.

This spectacular evening culminated with Vikku Vinayakram’s Ghatam Symphony. The ensemble featured three generations of his family – his sons V Selvaganesh and V Umashankar and his grandson Swaminathan Selvaganesh – alongside Ms Sukanya Ramgopal – making it an extraordinary celebration of percussion heritage. What followed was a medley of the kanjira, morsing and the vocal konnakol complementing the distinctive metallic sound of the earthenware pot that paid homage to Vedic traditions, transcending conventional boundaries of South Indian music.

The second day featured artists from ‘Rhythms of India’– BC Manjunath, Darshan Doshi, Varijashree Venugopal and keyboardist and vocalist Praveen Rao represented the interplay of diverse classical and contemporary musical streams of India, taking attendees on a unique auditory journey. The audiences were brought together in their collective experience of universal human emotions like love, longing, joy and sorrow through the timeless storytelling of ‘Ashtanayika – Kal Aur Aaj’ that featured Shivangini Yeashu, Krantinaari, Pratika, Vivieck Rajagopalan, Vaibhav Wavikar, Bharath Kumar, Aishwarya Meenakshi, Swarangi Savdekar & Yamini Khamkar. The immersive act created a dialogue between the past and the present to delve into the emotional spectrum of the eight archetypal heroines that resonates amongst audiences even today, across time and space.

Closing the curtain on this year’s festival was Taufiq Qureshi’s ‘Surya,’ featuring Sarang Kulkarni, Abhay Nayampally, Kaushiki Jogalekar & Shikhar Naad, which redefined the tight boundaries of genres and tradition by marrying the rich heritage of Indian Classical music with jazz, folk, Afro, Latin and contemporary sounds. This fluid act had a life of its own, evolving with spontaneous improvisation and truly drawing audiences in with live dialogue – making them very much an intrinsic part of the act.

Inspired by the artists’ presence, the attendees added their personal touch to the festival’s soundscape at the experiential zone curated by The Hindu, where they tried their hand at creating their rhythms on various percussion instruments like Drums, Tabla, Congas, Mridangam, and Darbukka. Not only that, but they were also able to treat their taste buds to a mouth-watering curation of food and beverage options at the Cowboy Cafe, 30 Square, Pocket Chillers by 30 Square, Biggies Burger and Araku Coffee.

Building upon its preceding debut edition, this year’s edition of the Mahindra Percussion Festival sought to further bring the new generation of audiences closer to the art and enduring legacy of percussion music, giving it a new lease of life.

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