Past EventsKolkata

It was indeed a privilege to have had Anik Dutta, the creator of the highly successful and critically acclaimed Bengali film Aparajito (2022), talk about his work, vision and views.

In conversation with filmmaker and actor, Rajesh Shinde, and script writer and creative producer, Pallavi Biswas, the film director pointed out that in his view film making is no different from handling any other project. He said that he involves himself in every detail of his project and stressed that there is no alternative to hard work in this field.

The film maker-producer duo of Rajesh and Pallavi who know how he operates, pointed out his eye for detail, his thoroughness in preparation and his very relatable dialogues.

The grandson of the founder of the United Bank of India, Shri Narendra Dutta, Anik Dutta, started his career with advertising films and is self taught.This he says has helped him at the populist (read commercial) level and even got recognition at the National level. He confessed that he doesn't believe that he is a good writer and writes only under compulsion.

Starting with his block buster success of Bhooter Bhobishot - which even got a Hindi remake - Anik Dutta has been moving forward with great conviction.

“The old adage that there is no substitute for hard work remains true, regardless of your diligence, intelligence or talent.” - Anik Dutta

A Fistful of Films - a short filmmaking workshop

Although the workshop started on a note of competitive zeal amongst the participating groups, it soon turned out to be an engaging, insightful, interactive and fun-filled learning experience. The process of film making was discussed during the well coordinated workshop conducted by Rajesh Shinde, filmmaker and Assistant Professor, The Heritage Academy and Pallavi Biswas, creative producer.

The trainers helped the participants explore the basics of camera, light, script, direction and editing during the four weekend-sessions of this workshop. Rajesh and Pallavi did a commendable job of trying to introduce such a vast subject to total novices.

Members gathered many valuable tips and felt confident and inspired to try their hands at this newly acquired skill.

Former Deputy Governor, Reserve Bank of India, Ms Usha Thorat and Dr Anup Sinha, Chairman, Bandhan Bank and former Dean of IIM Calcutta, spoke at great length on the advantages and disadvantages of using or investing in digital currencies and on the ongoing debate of whether it should be regulated or banned.

Ms Thorat said, "The challenges of regulating cryptocurrency is equally daunting as it is for banning it." She pointed out the volatility of the currency as it has no governmental backing, is mined using complicated algorithms and its value is defined by the acceptance of its users.

She also believes that the anonymity of its users is seen as a serious threat to cash flow and existing financial systems, as there would be no control over any irregularities or defaults that might occur. We also learnt that RBI is planning on launching its own digital currency soon.

Dr Anup Sinha spoke about the pros and cons of digital currencies from an investor's perspective. He believes it might throw up some short-term financial gains but the currencies as they exist now, are neither reliable nor strong enough for long- term investment, as any government or other intervention, regulation or even banning some or all of these currencies would adversely affect their value. According to him, "We are now looking at a situation that is a dilemma to policy makers and regulators across the world (about whether) to ban it or regulate cryptocurrency. You can't ignore it."

The invigorating session shed immense light on a topic that has created a serious buzz in the financial markets, world over, and cleared many of our doubts and misconceptions.

Durga Pujo, in the tradition of community celebrations, was started by the Shobabazar Rajbari in 1757 and has evolved over the generations.

Eminent contemporary artist, Shuvaprasanna and scenographer, designer and installation artist, Sumant Jayakrishnan were in conversation with contemporary artist, Jayasri Burman, about how the spiritual, aesthetic and gender sensibilities are celebrated during this festive season.

Shuvaprasanna said that Durga Puja, apart from being a religious festival for the Hindus, it is also an occasion for reunion and rejuvenation, and a celebration of traditional culture, customs and sensitivity. He said in the past, the Puja was an occasion where the British socialised with the elite Indians. Durga had a big influence on his personal creative journey too.

Sumant Jaykrishnan spoke about contemporary style and about his presentation. He believes, that the simple act of adorning ornaments is a celebration of womanhood. Sumant said that he is strongly influenced by the power, feminine energy and the victory of good over evil that Durga represents.

The evening has left all of us at LSG completely enthralled by the knowledge and simplicity of the panelists. It was an enriching experience!

"Music happens in life! My biggest inspirations for my songs are people's stories -they are my palette, my sur and my taal," said Shantanu Moitra.

Shantanu Moitra, National Award winning music composer, traveller and storyteller, shared his life realisations and travel adventures, in conversation with President LSG, Sumita Roy.

The celebrated creator of some of the most memorable music for films like Parineeta, Hazaaron Khwaishein Aisi, Munnabhai, 3 Idiots, Pink, October and Gulabo Sitabo, travelled in search for an album, pertaining to women's dreams and aspirations, where he encountered a renowned Rajasthani folk singer, Rukma Bai. Shantanu hummed a song penned by Prasoon Joshi, as a tribute to Rukma Bai, whose grit and determination was a life changing experience for him.

The composer who measures life in travel and music shared another experience with the ace wildlife photographer, Dhritiman, in Arunachal Pradesh, where he met a strong willed woman named Nani, who rescues children from abusive parents and gives them shelter. He was impressed by her positivity, faith and vibrancy even in the face of severe adversaries. He sang the famous song – 'Sareey Umr Hum...' which the children at the shelter home had sung for him.

Shantanu announced to the LSG members that as a tribute to the people who lost their lives in the pandemic, he would cycle along the course of Ganga, Gangotri to the Bay of Bengal.

"Art will cease to exist if it doesn't change its form and shape", said Shantanu. LSG President concluded saying, "Change is the only constant and LSG's theme for the year is ingenuity, adaptability and agility."

Mr Sanjoy Roy, entrepreneur, litterateur, curator of the Jaipur Literary Fest and managing Director of Teamwork Films, spoke about the need to explore the immense potential of India's economic, social and cultural heritage. The conversation highlighted his foray into the knowledge space of arts and of his abiding love for theatre that helped conceive the Mahindra Excellence in Theatre Awards, a platform that serves to make India's diverse theatre accessible to many, garnering over a million viewers for its online production in 2021.

Mr Roy also reflected on the economic potential of Durga Puja and the importance of tapping into the State's sharp sense of design. He spoke of the political importance of representing artistic traditions internationally. But most importantly, he spoke with passion about a right he has been facilitating through his long association with the Salaam Balak trust - the right to dream.

Mr Sanjoy Roy, a self-proclaimed Bengali 'bhodrolok' has proven that 'art can create wealth' and is a viable economic proposition.

Weaving Across Borders - An interaction between Laila Tyabji, the co-founder and Chairperson of DastKar from India, Bibi Russel, the iconic haute couture gamcha designer from Bangladesh and Sonali Dharmawardena, the batik artist from Sri Lanka, was exquisitely embroidered by the moderator Malavika Banerjee, Director, Kolkata Lit Fest. Their narratives travelled from a barsati in Defence Colony, Delhi, to the conservative batik designs in Sri Lankan heritage homes to the weavers of Bangladesh.

The three voices joined in unison in support of the folk craft artisans and their struggle to excel beyond pandemic times. When the international markets for slow fashion shrunk, the domestic markets came to their rescue. The creation of commune type of creative space by the crafts persons, often the breadwinner, created a winning formula. The uniform disappointment in each of their voices against the Governments who still refuse to accept handloom as a major industry but treat it more as a cultural platform, rang a bell as the folk craft space remains the second largest employer.

The marriage of slow fashion with super trends as in the case of Sabyasachi and H&M drew varied responses. Where Laila Tyabji saw this as a short cut to consumerism resting on traditional art forms, Bibi Russel highlighted the opportunities and the need to educate and familiarise the younger generations to slow fashion through this marriage. Sonali however relied on the need of uniqueness in designs using traditional forms to create contemporary fashion statements for them.

Through these international designers, the magical weaves have stayed alive on the pillars of fashion, sustainability and survival. The session closed with a video presentation on the participants at work.

It was a true celebration of women's power and the tenacity and valour of Air Marshal (veteran) Padma Bandopadhyay, Flt. Lt. Avani Chaturvedi, Flt. Lt. Bhawna Kanth and the larger Air Force. Air Marshal Padma Bandopadhyay was warm and graceful throughout the conversation and helped shine light on the journey of Flt. Lt. Avani Chaturvedi and Flt. Lt. Bhawna Kanth. Hearing about the meticulous and rigorous training they underwent to fly solo was motivating and enriching. Flt. Lt. Avani Chaturvedi and Flt. Lt. Bhawna Kanth shared their personal stories, their early aspiration to fly and journey to realise their dream and join the combat forces. We all enjoyed the training anecdotes shared by Air Marshal Padma Bandopadhyay. The Air Force has evolved and fierce and fearless women like Flt. Lt. Avani Chaturvedi and Flt. Lt. Bhawna Kanth are shaping history and paving the path for more girls to follow.

We were privileged to listen to a talk between two self made, highly successful businessmen, icons in their own sectors, throwing light on all aspects of the business culture and ethics.

Invited by Mr Neotia, to share his views on the role women, Mr Murthy began by pointed out that women in the work force were highly disadvantaged - especially working mothers. He stressed on the importance of providing incentives and skills upgradation to retain their women workers. Especially in times when two income families are a necessity.

The millennials, according to Mr Murthy, are highly confident and very competent with technology. Their only drawback he feels is their need for instant gratification.

He very clearly explained that AI, robotics and technology are the need of the hour and by proper training the problem of redundancy could be addressed.

Asked about his opinion on the present 'work from home' practice used in many sectors, Mr Murthy emphatically pointed out that people should be allowed to return to their work stations while statutory COVID safety regulations are strictly followed.

In these troubled times, the wise insights into how we can develop a better India and thereby a better world, were very valuable and reassuring.

The Ladies Study Group began a fresh new year under the most capable, proficient and graceful leadership of Mrs Sumita Roy with a Fireside Chat with the illustrious former diplomat and Founder of The South Asian Symphonic Orchestra (SASO), Mrs Nirupama Rao.

A video clip from the Hope and Harmony Ensemble by SASO set the tone of the evening's session. The audience learnt about the philosophy and mission behind the setting up of the Foundation and about the performers who have joined from diverse backgrounds and cultures. Nirupama Rao spoke about her efforts towards building bridges of peace and integration through the harmony of music.

Corporate relations icon, Mrs Rita Bhimani, very admirably guided the conversation as we journeyed to various parts of the world and glimpsed through four decades of Mrs Rao's career as a diplomat. Ambassador Nirupama Rao served in Sri Lanka, China and the USA. We heard about her experiences on the ground zero of Indian international diplomatic endeavours in the midst of an ethnic strife and later the Tsunami strike in Sri Lanka, and her narrow escape from a hostage situation in the Japanese Embassy in Peru. Her excellence in cultural diplomacy embraced unification and integration. She established the Indian Cultural Centres at Beijing and Washington. She spoke about the changing hues of South Asian geopolitics which she tried to capture in her book on the India-China relationship from 1949 to 1962.

The symphony lingered well beyond the one-hour interaction, thanks to Mrs Nirupama Rao and Mrs Rita Bhimani, compere par excellence.

The 54th Annual General Meeting of Ladies Study Group was held on a virtual platform, on Saturday, 12 June, 2021, at 5 pm.

Chairperson, Mrs Sumangala Birla, both on behalf of the Governing Body and herself, expressed joy and pride in the way outgoing President, Mrs Diya Jaiswal had navigated such difficult and unprecedented times, with utmost confidence and success. She thanked Diya for the wide range of programmes with eminent speakers on varied topics on the digital platform, as well as a few very well organised outdoor events.

She also took the opportunity to inform members that the Ladies Study Group Charitable Trust, has donated almost Rs 40 lakh to help the victims of the pandemic and super cyclone Amphan. We have recently helped vaccinate 500 NGO and other front line workers and made a sizable donation to an oxygen langar.

After screening a video on the year gone by, Diya described how she, along with her team moved from a state of total uncertainty and looming chaos to explore new horizons and opportunities and embraced the new normal. She thanked all members for the support and warmth she received through the year.

The names of the Committee members nominated for the year 2021 were announced by Executive Secretary, Ms Mitalee Chatterjee. Mrs Birla welcomed President, Mrs Sumita Roy and Vice President, Mrs Sucheta Merh. Mrs Sumita Roy promised to carry forward the legacy of the Ladies Study Group and unveiled her theme for the year – Adaptibility with Agility and Ingenuity.

The AGM was closed with a request to members for their continued support and encouragement.