Past EventsKolkata

The Ladies Study Group hosted an exclusive premiere show of the new film, 'Tumhari Sulu' followed by a candid conversation with actress, Vidya Balan, writer-director, Suresh Triveni, and producer, Atul Kasbekar, moderated by Tollywood actor, Arjun Chakraborty on "Women- The Grit and Grace of Society".

Vidya Balan wins us over with a charming film, which deals with real conflicts and dares to push boundaries hard. Vidya Balan plays Sulu, and she is superb in the part. She is a character filled with an indefatigable can-do spirit -- her refrain in the film is a constant 'Main kar sakti hai'. Her 1000-watt smile never wavering, her quicksilver expressions never failing to light up each frame...

Here, the homemaker is the hero who will surely have you at "Hello"!

Vidya was candid in admitting as she hailed from a middle class family, therefore she related to the film instantly. "Wohi pagal pan mujhe Sulu me dikha,"professed Vidya. She said, "I always wanted to work in the Land of Ray." Vidya revealed the atmosphere in the set was conducive for all to give their best. Forty-two days of shooting was an effortless and a unique experience where positive energies came together and everyone on the set had a sense of ownership in the film. Vidya stated her take away from the film was "Main kar sakti hai - if anybody can, a woman can."

Writer-director, Suresh Triveni unabashedly claimed being a fan of the maverick actress, Vidya Balan, and having the desire to work with her. He touched the Bengali sentiment by stating his work was influenced by great Hrishikesh Mukherjee and the legendary Gulzar sahib. On being quizzed by Arjun Chakraborty regarding the ending of the film, Triveni responded with equanimity, "I could not see Sullu giving up her Sulluness. Sulluness is all about optimism."

Producer of award winning film Neerja, Atul Kasbekar said he looks for projects with its novelty and spaces that have not been occupied. 'Tumhari Sullu' is relatable and reinforces the magic of Hrishikesh Mukherjee films.

The mesmerized audience witnessed a surreal and a magical experience celebrating womanhood in all its many-hued glory followed by a selfie perambulation!

Ladies Study Group unveiled the ‘Gripping Tales of Lives in Jail’ and peek into the prison lives of celebrities in a rare and engrossing session with a commendable panel, highly reputed in their respected fields. The experienced Dr. Kunal Sarkar-- with his sardonic humor, easy sharp wit, and candour prompted the panelists to respond with alacrity, to come up with some exciting revelations-- moderated the event. “Journalism to law enforcement, Indian women have carved a niche”, stated LSG President, Namrata Sureka in her introductory speech. Sunetra Choudhury, journalist and anchor with the Indian news channel NDTV 24x7, author of Behind Bars: Prison Tales Of India’s Most Famous revealed how she emotionally travelled the spectrum in writing this book. “I met someone who came out of jail and started telling me wild things that they did inside,” said Choudhury. “I couldn’t believe it and then my curiosity led me to do some more digging.” The book is not only about life behind bars, but also about the profiles of these VIPs, details of their alleged crimes, of her conversations with them. Choudhury also spoke to jail officials to verify stories. The objective was never to determine if someone was guilty or innocent. It was always to tell the story of what happens when an unlikely person ends up incarcerated, she said. “In fact, the prisoners carry all their social privileges as well as their vulnerabilities and discriminations into jail,” she stated. “I guess it can be called an exposé.” Ms. Vrinda Grover, lawyer, researcher, and human rights and women’s rights activist professed that justice must reach everyone — not just privileged Indians on the top rungs but those in insurgency-torn areas, those unjustly tortured, jailed or executed, and those who slip through the many cracks in the system. Her determination to force an often recalcitrant political and legal system to change in the ‘colonial model institution’ was evident. She stated, “Is the jail a great leveler as invariably economic disparity is carried inside the four walls of prison?” She cited the inhuman treatment meted out to prisoners and the inadequate diet was a hindrance to the mindset in order to bring about transformation. In her opinion, the government or think tanks look at prisons only from a managerial perspective. She voiced, “Torture is not a crime in India. In fact, India is the only democracy where there is no law on torture!” Roopa Moudgil, the deputy inspector general (prisons) of Karnataka, recently transferred, made it to the national news for exposing the special treatment given to AIADMK interim general secretary, V K Sasikala, who is lodged in Bengaluru’s central prison. There is no doubt that DIG Moudgil honored her commitment to the public by throwing light on corruption in the jail system. She confirmed what has been widely known for a long time, in fact— the rich and powerful are of course given VIP treatment even behind bars, such as in the case of mafia don-turned politician Mohammad Shahabuddin, or even Sahara chief Subrata Roy. She cited, “It is a reality that India’s prisons are a living hell for a majority of the inmates, while the rich and the powerful manage to carve out a privileged existence for themselves even within the system by using their money and clout.” Alokananda Roy, actor, dancer has been using the arts, especially traditional dance and music, to change lives of convicts at the Presidency Correctional Home in Kolkata. Her work involving reforms for jail inmates, especially for convicts under-trials through her art and love-therapy has provided new life to hardened criminals. She stated, “I believe in love therapy as a human touch.” The dancer-social worker told the LSG forum that she never asks any personal questions; she only wants to share the joy of music and rhythm with the inmates. There was a general consensus amongst the distinguished panelists that ‘our social silence’ is largely the problem at hand. The forum witnessed a superb expose’ event, with moderator Dr. Kunal Sarkar who had the LSG members in splits with his witty repartee.

Ladies Study Group felicitated Sunil Gavaskar, a former cricketer who played during the 1970s and 1980s for India. Widely regarded as one of the greatest opening batsman in cricket history, Gavaskar set world records during his career for the most Test runs and most Test centuries scored by any batsman. He held the record of 34 Test centuries for almost two decades.

Gaurav Kapur, a live wire, Indian actor and television presenter known for being the host of the pre-match Indian Premier League show, Extraaa Innings T20, moderated the event brilliantly and put Gavaskar at much ease. Happy to settle down to a 'perfect banter', the conversation gets synchronized, the conversation transcended onto another planar level i.e. behind the scenes...episodes from the changing rooms...to bicker bantering on the field and much more.

Gavaskar on being complimented on his youthful demeanor, quoted-"50's is the youth of old age" which had 'female skewed audience' in splits. He reminisced as to how he never adorned a metal skullcap rather than a helmet, which would have been devastating if he encountered a hit as, explained by a neurosurgeon years late.

He categorically mentioned in spite of technology not being advanced, not having the risk of being heard, there was hardly any sledging on the field in his time. There was only banter and nothing personal. He shared close proximity with his opponents as oppose to today, whereby, being friendly with the opponent is considered a hindrance in the player's performance and bringing down the intensity of the game.

Gavaskar shared stories of the 'Sunday Club', which was formed to break barriers between juniors and seniors. Winning the "World Cup" was the most joyful and exhilarating experience of his cricket life!

It was difficult to encapsulate Gavaskar's whole cricket career, nevertheless, Kapur did an incredible job. Their subtle nuances of cricket, fun and life left all of us enthralled. It was an incomparable evening.

Ladies Study Group proudly hosted globally renowned spiritual motivator and mentor, Sister Brahmakumari Shivani, who has touched the lives of millions to achieve spiritual transformation, at the serene lawns of Hyatt Regency. Sister BK Shivani, in an exclusive conversation with the members of LSG, being so candid, transparent and most importantly engaging with the audience, delivered a nuanced talk.

Sister Shivani laid emphasis on strengthening the bond of relationships by careful introspection and a sustained intellectual engagement and what better way to do that than to let go of the ‘Ego’. In order to let go of ‘Ego’, we must be devoid of comparison, heal the mind and thereby healing our inner self. Competition and comparison are egoistic behaviour, stressing on the ‘I’. Comparisons it is said are odious. And yet this is the criterion we use to judge every aspect of our lives. We keep in mind a frame of reference for everything-happiness, success, peace, pleasure, pain, accolades and yes, even love. The mind had an inbuilt calculator. Our comparative canvas increases manifold with social media. She stressed to inculcate the sanskar of acceptance and appreciation. “To heal any relationship, we must clean our minds, release the past and perfect our perception,” she stated.

Sister Shivani professed there should be unconditional love for family in order to radiate positive vibration, called ‘blessings’. Positive vibrations i.e. blessings can help family members bypass difficult times. She suggested that cooking for family members is the best way to connect with them, thereby emitting positive vibration. She preached that relationship with ‘you’ is the only criterion, in order to enhance the soul, which has a forward journey. It is a self-choice that every thought one creates is pure and devoid of jealousy and criticism. Sister Shivani asked the packed audience to give a gift to themselves by cleaning their minds, releasing the past and thereby developing positive healthy relationships.

“The best relationship is one in which yesterday’s fight doesn’t stop today’s communication”, said Sister Shivani.

Sister Shivani left the audience mesmerized not only by her divine radiating presence but also by her talk, as one knows that she's not coming from a space of pretense or artifice. If she hankers for anything, it's peace of mind, healthy relationships & that's what floats her boat!

The Ladies Study Group as a Women's Organisation that looks for every opportunity to showcase women's empowerment proudly presented 'An International Conclave', hosting prominent women guest-speakers from India and the five neighbouring countries celebrating 'Shakti Beyond Borders'!! The ladies study group Celebrated 'Shakti Beyond Borders 'with a unique presentation of Sand Art by artist Baadal Barai created live, showcased on the screen to the mesmerised audience. "You empower a woman, you empower a nation" said LSG President, Namrata Sureka in her opening speech. She introduced the illustrious panel as 'dynamic torchbearers' for women empowerment. India representative, Ms. Ruchira Gupta, Emmy-winning filmmaker and activist moderated the event. Ruchira Gupta is an Indian sex trafficking abolitionist, journalist and activist. Gupta is the Founder and President of Apne Aap Women Worldwide – a grassroots organization in India working to end sex trafficking. Ms. Gupta stated that the Indian sub-continent was truly empowered, although lagging in socio-economic growth. Male dominance, dowry deaths, abandonment of widows, lack of education for women were few of the many problems at hand. As a moderator, she questioned the distinguished panel the challenges they faced, advised steps in the progressive direction, their dreams for their daughters and managing motherhood. Indian delegate said Kamala Chatopaday, who challenged Mahayana Gandhi during the 'Salt March' was her icon. Sri Lanka representative, Ms. Otara Gunewardene, entrepreneur, philanthropist and fashion icon founded Sri Lankan fashion and lifestyle store, Odel. Gunewardene was the first female entrepreneur to take a company public in Sri Lanka. Ms. Gunewardene confessed of starting her business to raise funds to save the animals, protect the environment thereby saving the world. She was proud of her country where literacy rate is 92% , equal to men and women. In her opinion, poverty was the main hindrance for a better life. "I never thought of myself as a woman pushing my dreams; I feel that was my strength," stated Sri Lankan delegate. "The sole purpose of life is to be who you truly are," said Sri Lankan delegate. Regarding children, she quipped, "Let them be!" As a Buddhist, adapting detachment made her sell her profitable company in order to save the planet for future generations and thereby creating awareness. Sri Lankan delegate's mother, running a school of 3500+ special children inspired her as her role model in addition to Mother Teresa. Pakistan representative, Ms. Ameena Saiyid, is the managing director of Oxford University Press (OUP) in Pakistan. She became the head of OUP Pakistan in 1988, becoming the first woman to ever head a multinational company in Pakistan. Ms. Saiyid stated, "Perseverance is what matters for women." She narrated the challenges faced as a working women in her primitive society, not being granted maternity leave, the bets within the company on her survival as the MD and their sole purpose was to instigate her to throw in the towel. "Struggle needs to be sustainable," stated Pakistani delegate. She felt inflation was the main ingredient in pushing more women folk in the work force. In her opinion education is the main tool and will be instrumental in giving opportunity to the huge pool of talent which is untapped in Pakistan. Nepal representative, Ms. Charu Chadha is the consultant for the FNCCI Excellence Awards. She is the editor of MEDIA 9, which produces Business 360 and World of Women (WOW) magazines. A strong proponent of free markets and liberty, Charu has over two decades of experience in journalism, marketing, communications and events. Ms. Chadha professed, "Career chose me, I didn't choose the career." She said she felt segregated in a country where 10 year old 'kumari' is the goddess. She questioned the inequality between genders, wanted to share stories and search for answers primarily for herself. "We need to redefine success," said Nepal delegate. She believed the genders complimented each other and we should be careful in not crossing the fine line of feminism. Her personal anecdote for transformation was a fight to perform the last rights for her father. Nepal delegate quoted, "I am a strong woman because I was raised by one." She advised to turn tears into strength and to be economically empowered. Myanmar reprentative, Ms. Kyi Pyar is the MP, NLD Kyauktada Township, Yangon Regional Parliament, ACYPL: 2014 Spring Legislative Process + Governance Fellows Program (LFP) She is an eminent Activist in Yangon, Founder of 'Better Life Charity Organization' and works for Children from Orphanages in Ayeyarwaddy and Bago Regions. Ms. Kyi candidly confessed the military rule till 2010 in her country was detrimental in the growth of the economy. She got involved in politics, against her family's wishes to bring about change in every sector. She happily stated the significant increase in women participation from 4% in 2010 to 14% in 2014 general election in Myanmar. High child rape in her region was a big concern and it is her aspiration to see more women in powerful positions in the world. Myanmar delegate blamed the political situation of her country in her wedlock decision. She feared being jailed as a politician and therefore did not want the responsibility of a child. Poor education and poor economic system kindled a fire in her to join politics, in anticipation to bring about a positive change in society. Bangladesh representative, Ms. Farzana Chowdhury is the Managing Director and CEO of Green Delta Insurance Company Limited, and Mohammad Adnan Imam FCCA, Managing Director of Genex Infosys. Having spent over two decades in the insurance industry, she is now providing commercial insurance schemes directly aimed at improving economic security for women. Ms. Chowdhury candidly stated all women across borders face challenges. She was advised while working for a NGO to leave decision making to the men, which antagonised her to come out of her comfort zone, break barriers and thereby providing women with 'One service platform-insurance' in her launch pad. Personal anecdote for transformation for the Bangladesh delegate was the moment she was being refused to intern in an Islamic Bank. Bangladesh delegate was inspired by her mother to live her dream, face challenges and to be a leader to love people. The distinguished panel was unanimous in their belief that in order to build communities, we need to work together across borders rather than work in isolation. The gathering in full strength witnessed a powerful interactive engagement by powerful women of the sub-continent as never seen before in LSG. 'The forum witnessed an inclusive celebration of womanhood ... celebrating the oneness of womanhood'.

The Ladies Study Group Charitable Trust Awards began with LSG executive secretary, Ms. Mitalee Chatterjee, welcoming all assembled guests. President, Namrata Sureka in her welcome address expressed gratitude to the Governing Body, Committee Members, and LSG members for their support and participation throughout the year. She quoted, "Individually, we are one drop but together, we are an ocean." A short video depicting the events of the year was shown. Ms. Madhulika Kanoria was inducted as new LSG President and Ms. Iti Dasgupta was inducted as Vice- President for 2018-19. The resolution was proposed and approved. Ms. Mitalee Chatterjee announced the committee for 2018. The AGM was terminated. Award ceremony began with an opening performance-melodious rendition of 'Mile Sur Mera Tumhara' by musician duo Sourendro and Soumyojit, saluting the participants on stage from the Indian Institute of Cerebral Palsy, The Calcutta Deaf and Dumb School, and girls from the NGO 'Ektara', for their bravery, courage and determination against all adversities. The annual award 2017 themed "Saahas" of LSG Charitable Trust was given away by Hon. Gov. of West Bengal, Sri Keshari Nath Tripathy to courageous women who have shown exemplary courage against all odds. Mallika Dey, the first recipient of Saahas award, who by her grit and determination overcame challenges. She began her journey with selling 'batashas', and now she is the only woman gas cylinder distributor in West Bengal. Sadhana Mandal, the 2nd recipient of LSG Saahas award lost her arm in an accident. However, given her passion for stitching, is now team leader of 200 workers, guiding and motivating them in 'Kantha' embroidery. Shanti Devi Khaitan Award instituted last year was awarded to Ms. Naheda Ali for her meritorious achievement in H. S, now pursuing B. Com (Hons) at Shree Shikshayatan College. The Ladies Study Group collected and donated a sum of Rs. 40 lakhs to Thakurpukur cancer hospital for construction of mechanised kitchen for catering hygienic cooked meal to cancer patients. Gov. handed over the cheque to Mr. Anjan Gupta and Dr. Arnab Gupta. Hon. Gov. in his speech applauded the commendable work of LSG. He interpreted 'Saahas' as the spirit to face any adversity and firm determination to rise against all odds. He cited examples of Rani Laxmibai, Mallala who had inherent quality of Saahas in them and they had the ability to endure. He enthralled the audience by reciting a self-composed poem. Thereafter, an engaging interactive session was followed with Ms. Kavita Krishnamurthy, Padmashree awardee and playback singer and Ms. Nafisa Ali, actor and social activist. Mr. Manoj Mohanka moderated the session. Kavita Krishnamurthy's journey of success began in Bengal and was helped by Bollywood Bengali playback singers like Hemanta Mukherjee, Manna De amongst others, which helped to earn her a footing at Mumbai film industry. She is true believer in destiny. Nafisa reiterated her heritage and Bengali roots. As an activist, she always believed in truthfulness and having an impact on society. Kavita Krishnamurthy tuned a few lines from her famous hits; our very own Usha Uthup also pitched in. The audience was mesmerised by the performance. The event was followed by interaction of guests over a sumptuous layout of lunch by the Taj.