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The two-day extravaganza on the heritage instrument ‘Mohanveena’ of Radhika Mohan Maitra ended with a bang

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The Satyajit Ray Film and Television Institute (SRFTI), an academic institute under the Ministry of Information & Broadcasting, Government of India, organized a two-day festival on Mohanveena – now a heritage instrument of India which was created by the legendary musician the late Pt. Radhika Mohan Maitra in 1948, on 25th and 26th of July. The festival started with the screening of the documentary made by Prasar Bharati, Government of India during the late 1990s entitled “Mohanveena – a Genesis”. The screening was attended by several cinema buffs of the city and the students, staffs of SRFTI at the main auditorium. The hall was almost houseful for the 90-minute documentary and ended with a great applause. This documentary was telecasted in the National Television several times till 2010.

The next day was much more exciting. There was performance on Mohanveena by Joydeep Mukherjee, a dynamic and iconic musician of Gen X, and a grand disciple of Pt. Radhika Mohan Maitra followed by demonstrations and a short recital by Somjit Dasgupta, a disciple of Pt. Maitra. Mukherjee started his recital with Raag Megh and there was pin-drop silence in the hall. This technically sound and aesthetically brilliant performer started with alaap, jor, & jhala followed by two compositions – one in 12 bit Chowtaal demonstrating the ‘been-baaj’ and next was in 16 bit Teentaal demonstrating the sarod style playing. Raag Megh ended with a super jet speed jhala which received standing ovations. Mukherjee then played a couple of very popular tunes composed by Satyajit Ray in Mohanveena – “Ese Hirok Deshe, Dekhe Hirer Chomok” and “Feluda theme music” which the audience enjoyed to the fullest.

Next item was of Somjit Dasgupta where he first explained the history of Mohanveena. He said, “In the year 1943 when my Guruji Pt. Radhika Mohan Maitra played a jugalbandi in Sursingar with Ustad Sadik Ali Khan in Veena, he conceptualized a special instrument which should have the tonal quality of the Veena, resonance of a Sursingar and the ability to execute high speed taans like the Sarod. In 1948 he finalized a new instrument which had all the above qualities and on the same year Thakur Jaidev Singh, the then Chief producer of All India Radio named this instrument as “Mohanveena” after the middle name of Pt. Maitra. After that he performed some 22 National programs and countless recordings with this Mohanveena which are the assets of the Akashvani archives now. Today this 76-year-old ‘parampara’ of Mohanveena is still running among his disciples, grand disciples and great disciples,” He then played a melodious alaap in Raag Chhayanut followed by a composition in Raag Khamaj. Shree Mrinal Bhattacharya accompanied both the artists very sensitively in the tabla. His work on the left hand drum was quite admirable.

The next part of the festival was the most interesting one. The open house – direct interaction with the audience and the artists, moderated by Prof. Prajna Dutta – a nascent ex faculty of the SRFTI. Prof. Dutta gave a very contextual introduction to start the conversation and asked both the artists about the idea of musical instruments in cinema. Somjit Dasgupta told, “As per my Guruji cinema is analogous to Maa Durga with 10 hands and family members with their riders – implicating lots of characters, props, music, production crews, directors, producers etc. The same is there for music too where we have several raags, taals, tempos and playing styles.” Asking the same question to Joydeep Mukherjee he told, “Presenting a raag is just like making a cinema. Here the musician has to establish the raag note by note, just like several shots create a scene. Then continuity in music is much more important same like that of the cinema. A musician slowly builds the raag and goes to the climax at the end, just like I approached to the high speed jhala from the slow alaap -without letting a single audience any continuity jerk. The same is applicable for the director, editor & post production crews in the cinema.”

There were musicians like Bhabani Shankar Dasgupta, son & disciple of Padma Bhusan Late Buddhadeb Dasgupta, Subir De, a disciple of Pt. Maitra and distinguished persons like Prof. Sukanta Majumdar, HoD of the department of sound, SRFTI, Prof. Dr. Nabinanda Sen, Dipankar Dasgupta, head of cultural wing at USA Consulate, Dipankar Dasgupta, a former journalist among the audience as distinguished guests.

While both the musicians (Mukherjee & Dasgupta) avoided gently on the controversy regarding another namesake instrument Mohanveena created atleast four decades after Pt. Maitra, Bhabani Shankar Dasgupta clearly explained in the open house, “Any instrument except this Sursingar-Sarod blend is just a misnomer. Please don’t get confused. Do remember a patent is on the design and process and not on the name. For name there is trademark which has already been objected and the patent is challenged at the Honourable court. The namesake instrument is a matter of sub judice and no one can’t talk about that publicly. At the same time Radhika Mohan Maitra’s Mohanveena is a traditional instrument and can be freely discussed upon.”

It was a hyper packed house as several audience sat on the floor and stairs to listen to the program.

This program is an ongoing series organized by the Department of Sound Recording and Design under “Voices: Lecture Series”, under the leadership of Prof. Sukanta Majundar.

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Sahil Chak Honored with Best Acting Award by Bhagyashree

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Rising talent Sahil Chak has been awarded the Best Acting Award by the celebrated actress Bhagyashree for his exceptional work in theatre. This prestigious recognition highlights Sahil’s dedication and remarkable journey as he carves a niche for himself in the world of acting.

Sahil’s achievement is a testament to his relentless hard work and passion for the craft. Without any shortcuts or privileges, Sahil has steadily worked his way to this milestone, earning praise from critics and audiences alike. His performance was deeply appreciated for its authenticity, emotional depth, and sheer brilliance, setting him apart as a promising star in the performing arts.

Receiving the award from Bhagyashree, a revered figure in the Indian entertainment industry, was a defining moment for Sahil. Expressing his gratitude, Sahil said, “This award is not just a recognition of my work but also a reminder of the importance of persistence and passion. Being honored by Bhagyashree, someone I have admired for years, is a dream come true.”

Sahil’s journey into acting was driven by his deep love for storytelling and a desire to connect with audiences through his performances. From a young age, he immersed himself in the craft, attending workshops, participating in theatre productions, and constantly refining his skills. Known for his determination, Sahil is not one to shy away from challenges, often going the extra mile to deliver memorable performances.

His recent accolade is more than just an award; it is a stepping stone toward his dream of achieving greater milestones in the acting world. While many view awards as the culmination of success, for Sahil, it serves as motivation to aim higher and work harder.

Sahil’s focus remains steadfast on building a career that not only earns him accolades but also allows him to inspire others. “Acting is not just my profession; it’s my passion and purpose. I want to create stories that leave a lasting impact and resonate with people from all walks of life,” he said.

This recognition has also brought attention to the importance of theatre as an art form. Often considered the foundation of acting, theatre plays a crucial role in shaping performers, and Sahil’s achievement shines a spotlight on its value in the broader entertainment industry.

The journey ahead for Sahil Chak is filled with immense potential. With his unwavering determination, he aims to secure more opportunities, challenge himself with diverse roles, and leave an indelible mark on the world of acting.

As Sahil continues his journey, his story serves as an inspiration for aspiring actors and dreamers, proving that hard work, passion, and perseverance can turn ambitions into reality. This milestone is just the beginning of what promises to be a bright and illustrious career.

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Meenakshi Seshadri Returns to the Spotlight on Kabir Vani Podcast: A Conversation That’s Winning Hearts Everywhere

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Following the tremendous buzz surrounding Kabirr Vani, the latest episode featuring Bollywood legend Meenakshi Seshadri has taken the internet by storm. Known for her iconic performances in films like Damini, Hero, and Ghayal, Meenakshi joined Kabirr Zariwala on his podcast for an intimate discussion that offered audiences an unparalleled look into her life and career.

This episode arrives at a pivotal moment for Kabirr Vani, which has quickly established itself as a unique platform blending meaningful conversations with entertainment. Meenakshi’s appearance adds a new layer to the podcast’s growing reputation, cementing its position as a go-to space for candid and inspiring discussions.

In the episode, Meenakshi shared fond memories of her Bollywood journey, particularly her groundbreaking role in Damini. Her reflections on the film’s lasting impact and the sense of responsibility it brought to her as an actor resonated deeply with audiences. She spoke with grace and humility about how portraying Damini was not just about acting—it was about giving voice to a cause, a sentiment that continues to inspire generations of fans.

The conversation also touched on Meenakshi’s return to India after years of living in the United States. With heartfelt emotion, she described how “India called me back,” elaborating on her love for the country and how its culture and spirit have always been a guiding force in her life. Her observations on India’s growth and evolution, combined with her pride in its resilience, brought a wave of nostalgia for fans and reminded them of her unshakable connection to her roots.

One of the most striking parts of the episode was the discussion around spirituality and personal growth, themes that align closely with Kabirr Zariwala’s vision for Kabirr Vani. Meenakshi candidly spoke about the role meditation and mindfulness have played in her journey, offering insights into how she maintains inner peace and balance. Kabirr, who is deeply connected to these topics through his own life experiences, shared his perspective, creating a profound and relatable dialogue that left audiences inspired.

The episode has become a digital sensation, with clips and highlights trending across social media. Fans have taken to platforms like Instagram and Twitter, flooding comment sections with praise for Meenakshi’s timeless charm and Kabirr Zariwala’s ability to bring out her candid side. This episode has gained lot of attraction across various social media, reflecting the overwhelming response to this unforgettable conversation.

His ability to connect with his guests and explore topics that resonate universally has made Kabir Vani a standout podcast in the ever-growing digital media landscape. The episode not only celebrates Meenakshi Seshadri’s legacy but also showcases Kabirr Zariwala’s unique ability to craft conversations that are both entertaining and meaningful. With each episode, Kabir Vani continues to grow as a platform that bridges the gap between storytelling, spirituality, and personal growth.

The full episode with Meenakshi Seshadri is now streaming on YouTube. Don’t miss this captivating exchange that has left audiences inspired and nostalgic. Watch it today and join the conversation!

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Pooja Misra to Replace Sonakshi Sinha in Heeramandi 2

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In a dramatic turn of events, Pooja Misra, the international viral sensation, is set to replace Sonakshi Sinha in Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s much-anticipated Heeramandi 2. This announcement has ignited conversations in the entertainment industry, particularly regarding the controversies surrounding Pooja’s three-decade-long struggle against nepotism.

Pooja Misra has publicly spoken about the injustices she claims to have endured over the years, allegedly orchestrated to keep Sonakshi Sinha ahead in the industry. According to Pooja, she was even forced into rehabilitation under questionable circumstances, a move she believes was designed to ensure that Sonakshi could dominate the limelight during the release of Heeramandi.

The controversy deepened as Pooja accused Sonakshi of copying her glamorous looks from earlier photoshoots. The resemblance between Pooja’s iconic item number “Tilismi” and Sonakshi’s song “Tilismi Bahein” in Heeramandi has further fueled these claims. Pooja asserts that her original work continues to inspire, with evidence presented in the form of photographs shared alongside the announcement.

As 2025 begins, Pooja’s supporters are celebrating her casting in Heeramandi 2 as a long-overdue recognition of her talent. Many see this as a step toward addressing the nepotism that Pooja claims has sidelined her career for decades.

Pooja Misra’s original item number “Tilismi,” which remains a benchmark in the genre, has not only inspired audiences but also celebrated filmmakers like Sanjay Leela Bhansali. With this new opportunity, Pooja is set to reclaim her rightful place in the spotlight, reminding the world of her enduring charisma and talent.

The release of Heeramandi 2 is now eagerly awaited, promising a fresh start for Pooja Misra and a renewed discussion about fairness in the entertainment industry.

Link- https://youtu.be/0vSUmdooxHQ?si=swULTF0nQxNoAsP9

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