Past EventsKolkata

Ladies Study Group proudly hosted Rajdeep Sardesai, a senior journalist, an Indian news anchor, and author. Sardesai is currently a consulting editor at the India Today group, and hosts Headlines Today. In conversation with Mr. Sardesai was Mr. Suhel Seth, a managing partner of consultancy firm Counselage India. Seth is also an author, columnist, actor, and TV pundit.

Sardesai spoke candidly in his opening statement, "Nationalists don't need to wear the Nationalist flag." Black or white journalism is not conceivable and his utmost duty as a journalist was to "show the mirror to society." Being quizzed by Seth if political polarizing was entering journalism, Sardesai candidly stated, "today journalists are to not merely report what they perceive; they need to have an opinion and there is no space for moderate opinion." Suhel pointed that the media should shift their focus from being negative to showing development in India. Sardesai cryptically responded, "We Journalists are ideological and lazy with a tendency to see the glass half-full."

Happy to settle down to a 'perfect banter', the conversation gets synchronised. The conversation transcended time settling onto something on another planar level. It was agreed by both that any democracy needs a good opposition especially in a vibrant and paradoxical country like India. Sardesai was outspoken and blunt by saying, "We are living in an intolerant world where the younger politicians do not want to face criticism."

Sardesai unabashedly claimed that the media was obsessed with Delhi and some parts of India were slipping off the map. He went on to say, "Digital Media is the future and today is the age for Infotainment."

Seth stated, "The world has moved to Identity Politics," to which Sardesai responded, "The greatness of this country is in its diversity."

There was a reasonable amount of consensus between the guests while answering the questions from the audience about myriad subjects. The forum witnessed a brainteaser magical event, which had them in splits at their witty repartee!

When selfie perambulation concluded, the guests enjoyed the sumptuous lay out of delicacies by the ITC.

Ms. Abhilasha Sethia, President LSG, wrapped up her tenure with this event by further raising the glass ceiling and setting a precedent for the future!

The 50th Annual General Meeting

On 23rd March 2017 Ladies Study Group had its AGM with Mrs Mitalee Chatterjee conducting the proceedings.

Outgoing president Mrs Abhilasha Sethia in her speech spoke of joining the group 20 years back & being exposed to extraordinary women who have lead & set example. She said it was a beautiful journey & it was her privilege to be the president for the 50th year of Ladies Study Group. She personally thanked each member of the governing body & acknowledged the hard work of the committee. She thanked the support of Mr Rajeev Singh & ICC & her family.

She welcomed the incoming president Mrs Namrata Surekha & Vice President Madhulika Kanoria. After the formalities Namrata in her speech said that her motto for the year would be Dare to Care. To look beyond , to be a catalyst , to extend a helping hand.

She asked for everyone to go the extra mile & give voice in silence & hope in desperation. The 50th AGM of Ladies Study Group was a memorable event.

LSG under the newly elect President, Ms. Namrata Sureka , hosted a scintillating event which gave the forum an enlightening perspective on the magic and mystery of midlife.

Rahul Bose, an Indian film actor, moderator of the event, stated he was in "female heaven," with a glint in his eye.

Ms. Aparna Sen, an Indian filmmaker, screenwriter and actress who is known for her work in Bengali cinema, said she made the movie "Sonata," with no commercial angle. It was a sheer idea of women past a certain stage bonding, chatting, and re-evaluating friendships. Sen felt that with age the inner beauty surfaces. Sen further stated, "Woman who is obsessed with her looks is an unhappy woman."

Ms. Rakhi Sarkar, owner of city-based CIMA art gallery stated, "midlife is not a crisis, it is a period of transition, self-critique, asking hard questions, and the period when reinvention can turn into rejuvenation." Sarkar said that midlife gives a tremendous boost. She further stated Picasso came out with his best work in his last decade.

Ms. Lilette Dubey, an Indian actress who has worked in theatre, television and Bollywood films, opined, "it is the same old you in an old body." She confessed her bucket list is increasing as her years are decreasing. At 40+ she feels wonderful and liberated. "When you transit, you have to reflect," she cryptically stated.

Ms. Shabana Azmi, an Indian filmmaker, screenwriter and actress who is known for her work in Bengali cinema, said she currently was in the phase of freedom. She stated, "for the sake of vanity, embrace your age. It is only then one can extend their age as an actor." Azmi candidly said, "I love women!" She felt the support system of women is very strong and there is no role-playing.

Kolkata sets the standard for creativity and creative excellence, so evident in the clipping of Ms. Aparna Sen's movie, 'Sonata' which was screened for the packed audience. As a Women's Organisation that looks for every opportunity to showcase women's empowerment, this event brought to the table a record of value creation.

Ladies Study Group proudly hosted eminent Indian political leader Mr. P. Chidambaram, MP Rajya Sabha, Former Union Minister of Finance. Sharing the dais was Mr. Pavan K. Varma, National General Secretary, and National Spokesperson of Janata Dal. Ms. Jyoti Malhotra, Senior Journalist, NDTV moderated the event.

Chidambaram being so candid, transparent and most importantly, engaging with the audience stated we should no longer tolerate an intolerance which undermines democracy and allows a culture of impunity and tormentors. “I am glad that Bengal is withstanding the onslaught of the saffron brigade. I applaud the leader of the Trinamul for standing up to the authoritarian, illiberal regime,” said Chidambaram. He further went on to say that he found it worrying that the spectre of “Hindu-Hindi hegemony” loomed large on the citizens of India. He was brutally honest in stating that the Congress Party did not portray as a strong opposition, emphasizing the need for a structured organisation starting from the grass root level.

Varma stated Indian politics is in the sea of fear: Both right wing and ‘secular’ parties have unleashed a vicious cycle of extremism. If India is to survive as a nation, the time has come for such insanity to stop. Indian politics badly needs a return to balance and statesmanship. Inclusion not exclusion, and hope not fear needs to guide our political class. If politicians do not understand this, the only hope is that, ultimately, the people of India will.

The speakers agreed ordinary Indians want good governance, jobs and economic development, an end to endemic social instability, and peace and security in their lives. If given a chance they will, beyond the machinations of clever politicians, vote in the long run for someone who promises these ends, and not for those who only use them as cannon fodder to win elections. Secularism will then not be the ‘slippery slope’ but a firm foundation for a mature and truly democratic republic.

Chidambaram said seven million persons of Kashmir valley felt alienated by the oppressive methods of the Indian government, which was a “terrible” mistake. The statement of Chief of Army Staff that anyone who interfered with defense operations would be treated as anti-national was the last straw.

Varma voiced a multi-pronged initiative, meticulously planned and uncompromisingly implemented, is the crying need of the hour for the issue of Kashmir.

India is culturally diverse & pluralistic society! There's unity in diversity.

Ladies Study Group hosted Ms. Twinkle Khanna, Indian interior designer, newspaper columnist, film producer, author, and former film actress. Ms. Barkha Dutt, author and prominent Indian television journalist led Khanna's interview.

The author of Mrs. Funnybones unabashedly wooed the audience with her witty anecdotes, which she uses to put her point across. She believes in the "power of humor.” The actress turned writer talked about cinema, her childhood, her writing, her upcoming movie production, her marriage and how women have to fight to find their space in everything they do.

"Life is about chance in a game of choice,” she quips with candour. “My name is Twinkle, how much worse can it get,” says with a glint in her eye.

Dutt and Khanna developed a natural camaraderie right from the beginning and made the audience laugh at their wit.

Khanna talked candidly about her love for Math, her childhood dream to be a CA, her passion for reading, and most importantly maintaining her identity. She emphasized the “need to prepare the children for failure.” She expressed her gratitude to her family, who never took their success seriously, therefore making it easier to cut her losses in the field of acting and move on to her passion, writing. “As you age, you get comfortable in your skin,” quipped Khanna. Dutt summarized it by saying, “Books over Botox,” which had the audience in splits. “You're a Feminist, as long as you believe in women having equal opportunities as men,” said Mrs. Funny Bones.

The event was followed by interaction of guests over a sumptuous layout of tea by the ITC.

LSG initiated wellness Circle with 3 expert panellists Ms Vandana Luthra, founder of VLCC, a Padmasree awardee, Dr. Mickey Mehta, holistic health Guru and Ms. Nayanika Chatterjee, a Grooming consultant and former Super model, moderated by Ms Nilanjana Chakraborty, noted media personality.

Entrepreneur Vandana Luthra revolutionised the concept of beauty and wellness in India with VLCC. It was started as a wellness centre in in 1989 and now has evolved into an empire. She didn't have enough money but her zeal and faith in herself overshadowed everything else. She took a small loan and started operating from a salon and there was no looking back. She advocated scientific method for health and wellness treatment. She advises DNA test for weight management, consulting nutritionist for healthy diet, and skin test before applying any beauty products for best results. She says wellness is a larger domain and requires collaboration of beauty, health and fitness experts that is a cosmetologist, a nutritionist and a doctor.

Her VLCC family, her clients and the love of her family keeps her motivated, she says.

Dr. Mickey Mehta mesmerised the audience with his inspiring talk on wellness.. He says 95% of our genes are indeterministic, while only 5% are deterministic, so since 95% are indeterministic they can be changed with conscious intervention and intelligent ways of life. You can change the ways genes will be expressed. He highlights the importance of Deep breathing. His message is to get naturalised, get energised, get optimised, get maximised - get mickymized.

Noyonika spoke about the vowel mantra that she lives by and tries to impart to her students who are mostly aspiring models.She spoke about each vowel and what it meant to her--A for awareness and acceptance,E for energy and enthusiasm, I for selfdiscovery--learning to identify one's own strengths and weaknesses, O for learning to reach out and empathise with others and U for developing one's powers of understanding.She said she always advised those who came to her, against aping other supermodels, but to try to forge their own path, because each one of them is an individual and not a clone of any famous person.She also spoke of some of the misconceptions about drugs and alcohol being a part of a professional model's life. She felt there was more of this in other professions, especially among the younger generation. She said a model knew that her face and figure were the tools of her trade and she had to follow a healthy lifestyle, have disciplined hours, eat right to maintain and bring out the best as far as looks went. As it is,a model's career was a shortlived one,fraught with uncertainty and intense competition. She was asked if she had faced racism, given that she was 'dusky' unlike most 'fair and lovely'professional models. She admitted that she had,even as a child,but her parents were always very proud and supportive and that gave her the confidence to ignore unkind remarks from outsiders .Her father called her 'black gold'--a very rare and expensive form of gold. She also said that she learned,quite early to develop her talents,like painting,making others laugh and things like that so that outsiders,who met her,would focus on those,rather than her dark complexion.She said she said gardening helped her to destress.

A summer morning in Mumbai, opens its doors to the "Women Entrepreneurs" Summit & ICC Women Achievers Awards. Mrs. Namrata Sureka (President LSG) addresses the crowd by quoting Swami Vivekananda's words that compares a society flying with one wing unless the condition of the women is not improved. Ms. Naina Lal Kidwai ( Chairman of Max Financial) requotes these same words later on inspiring us all with her experiences & fortitude of being a woman entrepreneur in a man's world.

Accolades were handed out to women achievers like Ms. Kidwai, Ms. Uma Sistla (GM of SBI) Ms.Yami Gautam ( Actor) Ms. Revathy Roy (Founder Hey DeeDee) and many others. Our own ex president Mrs Mukul Agarwal moderated the session between the women speakers; all well established in their field of expertise. "Can women have it all? " still stands to be one of the most asked & permeable questions. The unanimous answer is that we all have these 3 precious crystal balls, that needs juggling all the time. Family, Career and Myself. These women entrepreneurs urge us to concsiously pick up other women from their working dynamics, give them a chance and even mentor them. There is no shortcuts to success, hard work has to be punched in. One essential that we as women forget is to network. Men network all the time, whereas after work we give priority to family to pacify our guilt. The biggest take away for us all was that "Ambition" is not a bad word. Vice President MrsMadhulika Kanoria gave the vote of thanks leaving the podium open for the next session for the women entrepreneurs & investors & new age technologies.

Ladies Study Group proudly hosted a culturally rich event, "Legacy in Rhythm" with Sarod maestro Ustad Amjad Ali Khan, Amaan Ali Bangash and Ayaan Ali Bangash in a classic jugalbandi with Ms. Sagarika Ghose to an enthralling audience.

Ustad Amjad Ali Khan, the living legend belongs to a lineage, unbroken ...musical tradition of seven generations. His forefathers had modified the Sarod, which in his opinion, is closest to the human voice. On being called a genius by Ms. Sagarika Ghose, he humbly quipped, "Genius is 99% perspiration and 1% inspiration." He further stated the huge responsibility to keep the legacy alive, he had to forsake his freedom of childhood under the strict disciplinary eye of his father cum Guru. Khan Saab had the audience in raptures when he disclosed, "My father was uncomfortable if the Malawi was not in tune while reciting the Azaan."

Amaan Ali Bangash candidly confessed to being in a complexed relationship with his father, sometimes not knowing when to be a son or a disciple! He did feel the pressure as a child but in retrospect was only too glad to inherit this family wealth of music. He stated, "At the tender age of 12 years, it dawned upon me - It's beautiful if I could make their dream into destiny." Khan Saab interrupted by saying that he would play 'Jingle Bells' and other nursery rhymes on the Sarod to lure the children into his world of music.

Ayaan Ali Bangash thanked the LSG committee for adorning the 'Mekhla' sarees, which would have pleased his mother, of Assamese origin. He candidly confessed that he spent his initial years striving for approval by his father and henceforth music became a way of life! He added that to keep the tradition and the old world charm alive, it is imperative to be progressive. In his opinion, different genres of music get famous at different times. Amaan quipped, "Classical music is like sushi, and not butter chicken," which had the audience in splits.

Khan Saab educated the audience by saying that classical music is not and cannot be written; but has to be passed down generations. It has more slides and glides than any other music. "Music is the name of quality and not quantity, "he said. He poignantly stated, "The seven notes of the musical scale in classical music are there in every form of rhythm and music. It is only language that creates barriers. Each one of us is born with rhythm comparing it to our.... heartbeats." The audience burst into peals of laughter when Khan Saab commented, "Fusion music is very common. Some fusion is appealing and some fusion is total con-fusion." The trio was on the same platform professing music connected them to a supreme divine power, cosmic element and it was the utmost form of prayer.

The trio swayed the audience by humming different melodies and so did our very own kolkatan, Ms. Usha Uthup. Books written by Ustad Amjad Ali Khan and by Ms. Sagarika Ghose were on sale and the authors magnanimously agreed to sign the copies. It indeed was an intellectually and culturally stimulating event!

Ladies Study Group proudly hosted an ace Indian fashion designer, Tarun Tahiliani, who gave the forum an insightful and an invigorating session in the world of fashion and style.

Tarun Tahiliani is a noted Indian fashion designer, best known for his ability to infuse Indian craftsmanship and textile heritage with European tailored silhouette. Over the years, his name has become almost synonymous to bridal wear!

The forum witnessed a brainteaser magical event, which unfolded with fusion singer, Isheeta Ganguly singing “Vande Mataram” and Tarun Tahiliani reciting Rabindranath Tagore’s famous lyrics, “where the mind is without fear and the head is held high…” to an anxious audience. Tarun talked about his life journey, opening of his store ‘Ensemble’, which then became a catalyst for more stores to open nationwide. Tarun stated, “Women were done with boredom of socialism” and what followed was the rebirth of embroidery on beautiful textiles!

The models swayed down the ramp in his ingenious styles; in an iconic, cinematic style reminiscent of the golden age of both Bollywood & Hollywood. Tarun displayed his “Ready to wear”, “Evening wear” and lastly the feather light, “Bridal wear” which had the audience mesmerized.

Tarun showcased on screen, his collection from “India Couture Week 2017”, “Chikankari collection”, “Kumbh collection”, and his newly launched carpets with chikankari and paisley weaves. He poignantly mentioned, “It’s a tremendous journey for fashion. The focus is how we designers take India and interpret in an Indian way.” Tarun suggested investing in timeless pieces, which never go out of fashion. He educated the audience by showcasing various drapes with dhoti, pants or by itself. He stated, “Wear it and individualize it.” He strongly believes that fashion has to evolve to free people. Tarun, the acclaimed designer, gave a tip to the women of LSG, “Look at yourself and be yourself.”

Tarun developed a natural camaraderie right from the beginning with the dismayed audience who marveled at his creations and his interpretation on the sensibilities of his designs. Tarun proved to the impressed forum that he indeed is the epitome of modern ace fashion designer!!

We started our trip with the Charming city of Venice ,with the Excitement and buzz of the 'Biennale, and the film festival'. It began on a wellness note with a talk on 'Mio balance' by Dr. Giovanni. This culinary trip began with the art of learning to make the best 'bellinis' at Hotel 'Ciprianni' and organic salads at the 'Carlton' hotel on the grand canal.A group of us visited the Rialto food market to see, smell and savour the local flavours whilst the others went on a cultural and historical walk through Venice. Our next destination was the gastro heart of Tuscany, where we stayed at the hillside village 'll Borro'now a 'Relais n chateaux' property owned by the ferragamo family, truly magical where time seemed to stand still. Our next agenda being 'Truffle hunting' with the dogs was surely an unforgettable experience ! The well renowned silver designer 'Giovanni Raspini' took us through his factory giving us a first hand experience of his stunning creations . We were proudly invited by The 'Mayor of Arrezzo' on a official visit to the 'Town Hall'. Dinner was laid out under the stars at the most enticing 'Cappana de Sole'. Our final day was spent amongst Cypress trees,vineyards and olive groves at the 'll falconiere' in the pretty town of Cortona. Here we mastered the art of pasta-making with Michelin chef 'Silvia barrachi'. Our last and final evening was hosted at the 'Osteria terrace' by Ferragamo's granddaughter, Ms 'Vittoria ferragamo'at 'Il borro'. Truly a week of unforgettable and unbelievable experiences!

LSG organised an exclusive members afternoon on Wednesday,25th October at the Taj Bengal. The theme for the event was “Igniting the Devi Shakti Within” - a celebration of the Goddess, and the Members looked resplendent in their Red Attire which symbolised the “Devi Shakti”. The stage set the mood for the afternoon with a magnificent Durga installation by Narayan Sinha and the audience was resplendent in various shades of red adding vibrant and festive hues to the occasion.

The event kickstarted with a powerful rendition of the Devi Vandana by the leading danseuse and choreographer Tanushree Shankar and her dance troupe. Grace and fluidity captivated the entire audience who were enraptured by the dance performance.

The talented craftsman Narayan Sinha then took over the stage and was in conversation with the vivacious Mrs. Gouri Basu who steered the interaction to cover Narayan’s moving story of his simple upbringing to the success, he has achieved today in the global art world . Narayan shared how it was Women who had always empowered him rather than the other way around and made a special mention of his sensitive relationship with his mother . He received a huge round of applause when he highlighted how important it was for each and every woman to love and respect herself first and celebrate her own life and then focus on others around her.

The members were divided into 16 groups (with 10 members each) based on the names of the different Indian goddesses . An exciting quiz followed which was thoroughly enjoyed by all . A creative competition wherein each group was provided with a basket of items and had to create their own innovative version of the Devi, was the next attraction. The outcome surpassed all expectations with each group at its ingenous best making it challenging for the judges to choose a winner . The thought, the imagination and the crystallising of it into stunning installations had to be seen, to be believed!

The traditional Indian lunch and the decorative flowers all over the banquet hall further complimented the venue and the constant ringing of laughter and smiling faces of our members bore testimony to the memorable afternoon that was shared by the LSG ladies ..or rather ..the Devis ...in red!!

Words seem inadequate to describe the visit by the members of the Ladies Study Group to the Children's Wing of the Thakurpukur Cancer Hospital on Tuesday, 7th November 2017. A group of 45 members visited the premises but were totally unprepared for the gamut of emotions that each one experienced through the course of the morning.

The event began with us being seated in the hospital auditorium along with the children and their parents . We were told about the inspiring story behind how the hospital was set up many years ago by the dynamic late Dr Saroj Gupta . His younger son shared details of the hospital foundation and how it had started as a 22 bed hospital and evolved into a state of the art hospital with over 300 patient beds today with fifty percent of their medical care being completely free for the underprivileged.The commitment and dedication of the Gupta family and their tireless dedication to fight this dreaded disease and make care available for one and all was truly remarkable .We then witnessed a beautiful poetry rendition from a young girl who was currently undergoing cancer treatment .There was not a dry eye in the audience as we watched her incredible spirit and positivity which shone through the sparkle in her eyes . This was followed by an excellent magic show where the magician was none other than the hospital radiologist himself . The sounds of laughter and glee that reverberated through the audience especially of the young children was heartening and brought a smile to all our faces . We also visited the children's cancer ward and again spread some cheer by distributing gifts amongst the children which they opened up immediately to enjoy while the parents looked on indulgently.

However the reality of the visit was inescapable...the pain and anguish in the parents eyes as they watch their kids struggle to fight this dreaded disease was starkly evident . And while the hospital authorities are making a valiant attempt to help one and all ,the paucity of funds was visibly a huge drawback . Major medical machinery was lying unused because it needed repair and maintenance which was not possible as there were no funds . We all left the hospital resolute with the decision that we each have to do our bit to help this hospital forge on ahead with their exemplary work.

LSG has always supported the Thakurpukur Hospital and will continue to do so and we would urge all our members to come forward and join hands with us to do this . Let's give back to our city and it's people in any way possible,big or small as in the words of Dr Gupta every drop of water contributes to creating the ocean . This is our city and these are our people and we all need to action our feelings in what ever way possible.