Latest news with #Indrani
Time of India
05-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Time of India
Indrani Mukerjea shines as Chitrangada in IME's bold retelling of Tagore's Warrior Princess
On a night that will linger in Mumbai's cultural memory, Indrani Mukerjea stepped onto the stage of the Royal Opera House and delivered a performance that was nothing short of transformative. Chitrangada – Ek Sashakt Naari , produced by Indrani Mukerjea Enterprise (IME), reimagined Gurudev Rabindranath Tagore's timeless heroine for a new era — and did so with a ferocity and vulnerability that belonged wholly to Mukerjea. In the dual roles of Kurupa and Surupa, Indrani embodied every nuance of Chitrangada's journey: the fierce warrior moulded by her father to rule, the woman torn between love and self-worth, and the human being who refuses to choose between strength and tenderness. Her portrayal resonated beyond the footlights, drawing audiences into Chitrangada's inner world with a depth that was both raw and regal. The night belonged as much to Indrani as it did to her company. With Chitrangada – Ek Sashakt Naari , it showcased an unwavering commitment to powerful, women-centred storytelling. It was a production that blended classical Indian aesthetics with a modern heartbeat — a delicate balancing act that required both courage and clarity of purpose. The result was a visually striking and emotionally resonant spectacle, featuring original music, hybrid choreography, and a stage design that mirrored Chitrangada's transformation from Kurupa to Surupa. The production's ambition announced IME as a formidable force in India's performing arts landscape, unafraid to take creative risks and tell stories that challenge, inspire, and heal. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Khám phá nhà tiền chế giá rẻ tại Đường Ubnd Phường An Khánh Nomad's Notebook Nhấp vào đây Undo Much of the evening's magic sprang from the creative mind of director and composer Madhumita Chakraborty. She approached Tagore's 1892 one-act masterpiece with a clear mission: to strip it of inaccessible grandeur and find its human core. The result was a score and choreography that felt urgent and timeless. Director Tony Chakraborty's ability to translate Chitrangada's internal struggles into visual metaphors elevated every moment. Subtle shifts in lighting reflected her shifting identity, while bold set changes mirrored her inner turmoil. His staging was often poetic, sometimes startling, but always deeply connected to the character's journey. His work gave the play a fluidity that carried audiences seamlessly from moments of introspection to the thunderous crescendos of battle and self-realisation. If there was one surprise of the night, it was how dancer Sandip Soparrkar's usual stage presence seemed almost dwarfed by Indrani's incandescent performance. As Arjun, Soparrkar brought his characteristic precision and grace, but even his carefully measured movements and emotional restraint could not pull focus from the magnetic centre that was Mukerjea's Chitrangada. The audience's response was immediate and thunderous. As the final lights dimmed, Chitrangada – Ek Sashakt Naari was met with a standing ovation that felt as much a tribute to Mukerjea's extraordinary performance as it was to the production's bold artistic vision. By the end of the evening, it was clear that both Indrani and her company had not only brought Tagore's Chitrangada to life but redefined what it means to tell a woman's story on an Indian stage. And in a world where women's voices are too often muted, Chitrangada – Ek Sashakt Naari thundered with truth, beauty, and a warrior's heart.
The Star
27-06-2025
- Business
- The Star
Fomca: Financial access at risk
PETALING JAYA: Ahead of the implementation of service tax on financial services on July 1, groups have voiced concerns, saying that this is likely to drive up costs for businesses and the regular people. Federation of Malaysian Consumers Associations (Fomca) vice-president Datuk Indrani Thuraisingham said ordinary Malaysians would be the most impacted by the 8% service tax on fee-based financial services. Indrani said the small charges may seem as a trivial amount but it is a huge sum when multiplied by the millions of transactions. 'When Malaysian banks are riding on massive profits and control trillions in assets, why should struggling consumers be asked to chip in more. 'This is taxing basic financial access, not luxury,' said Indrani. Indrani called on Bank Negara Malaysia and the Finance Ministry to immediately review this new ruling. 'The principle of consumer fairness must be upheld,' said Indrani, adding that banks should absorb part of this tax, especially on low value and high-volume services. Indrani also said consumer groups should be given the space to scrutinise every fee schedule so that banks should be held accountable and thereby prevent opportunistic fee hikes disguised as tax adjustments. CLICK TO ENLARGE 'If this goes ahead unchecked, the government can expect deeper financial exclusion, rising household debt and widening inequality,' she said. Fomca secretary-general Saravanan Thambirajah said the announcement by Putrajaya raises concerns for everyday consumers on how this would affect their financial service experience. 'In real terms, this tax means that consumers will see higher charges for many common services offered by banks. 'Even services used by small businesses and self-employed individuals such as overdraft facilities, bank guarantees and remittance services are likely to be affected,' said Saravanan. Saravanan also said there is a concern that this move would set a precedent for banks to gradually increase fees under the guise of tax compliance. 'Once consumers grow accustomed to higher charges, more subtle fee revisions should be introduced over time,' said Saravanan. SME Association of Malaysia national president Chin Chee Seong said as the 8% service tax rate predominantly affects commission-based financial services, SMEs are likely to see an increase in cost of doing business. Chin said businesses are already bracing for the SST on commercial rental and leasing services, barring which rental costs have already increased by 20%-30% from a year ago. 'On top of that, they will also be dealing with the mandatory 2% Employees Provident Fund contribution for foreign workers and the restructuring of electricity tariff. 'The cost of doing business is getting higher and higher. It will definitely affect our cashflow. It doesn't look good for the industry and the economy,' Chin said. 'If all of these are coming together, how are we going to plan our next few months especially as we have passed the mid-term. It is going to be tougher for us to do business,' Chin added. Chin said there has to be more clarity on certain aspects of the tax system for instance on the RM500,000 threshold on taxable financial services. 'Items such as luxurious items, (imported) fruits, I think that is clear cut and they can go ahead. But when it comes to financial services such as leasing and rental, I think that should be deferred first,' he said. 'The government should understand that we are not against their policies but these policies must be more considerate of the difficulties of doing business. The cost of doing business is high while consumer spending is low,' Chin said.
Time of India
18-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Time of India
‘It's silicon, but feels as if our loved ones are still with us'
Subimal Das working on a commissioned hyper-realistic silicon statue. Pic: Surja Mondal In world where digital twins are striving to preserve the essence of a person who is no more, Kolkata has found a way to hold on to memories in the analogue world. Life-like silicon figures are comforting those grieving for their loved ones. Crafted with startling realism, they provide an emotional and tactile anchor to the bereaved. CT spoke to the man behind the art, Subimal Das, and the families embracing this unique way of preserving memory. When love outlives loss After his wife Indrani passed away in 2021, Tapas Kumar Sandilya honoured her wish with a life-like statue. 'She used to say, if I die first, do one like this for me,' he recalled. 'For me, it's like she is still here.' Samit Dutta, an advocate, lost his father in 2022 and found comfort in his statue. 'It looks just like my father,' he said. He later ordered one of his mother too. Gita Bhattacharjee from Tollygunge, whose son has been missing for 12 years, said, 'I don't know if he's dead or alive. This helps me feel he's still here.' Samit's New Year ride for his Maa and Baba Gita Bhattacharjee has placed her son's statue in his bedroom How memory takes shape Silicon sculptor Subimal Das began working with the material in 2013, drawn to its ability to capture both form and emotion. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like One of the Most Successful Investors of All Time, Warren Buffett, Recommends: 5 Books for Turning... Blinkist: Warren Buffett's Reading List Click Here Undo A trained artist, he started out in 2007 with museum installations before shifting focus. He ventured into preserving memories of loved ones from 2022, when Tapas Kumar Sandilya commissioned a statue of his late wife, Indrani. The work drew attention and opened the door to more such requests. Since then, Subimal has completed 20+ statues. 'Each project is deeply personal. I study everything, from photos to how they smiled.' 'Art can hold emotion – this proves it' The intricate craft of life-like silicon statues is gaining popularity. 'It takes about two to two-and-a-half months to complete each statue,' says Subimal. Despite the cost, families find comfort in these creations. 'Kolkata was skeptical at first, but now more people are showing love and respect for the art,' he said, adding 'Orders are pouring in from across Bengal and abroad.' An yesteryear actress with a famous surname has ordered one for her family, he says. Quotes: When people trust me with this, it's not just work anymore. It becomes personal for me too – Subimal Das, silicon statue artist I took the statues of Maa and Baba for a ride to Victoria Memorial after New Year's this year. When I look at them, it feels like they are still with us– Samit Dutta
Time of India
19-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Time of India
Supriya Shukla on essaying Indrani in Ufff… Yeh Love Hai Mushkil: I wake up excited to shoot every day
Everyone's favourite TV mom , Supriya Shukla , is all set to return to the small screen — but this time, with a delightful twist! In the upcoming family rom-com Ufff… Yeh Love Hai Mushkil , Supriya steps into the role of Indrani, Yug's spirited and layered mother. Far from your typical saas-bahu drama, this character gives her the chance to explore something refreshingly different. Talking about her excitement about being a part of the show, Supriya shares, "Indrani is a very interesting character — she's full of emotions, layers, and surprises. With every scene, I'm discovering new aspects of Indrani. There's strength and softness both wrapped in one, and I'm slowly settling into her world with more confidence and understanding. Also, working with Shabir again is awesome! We've worked together in the past and there's a deep sense of comfort and trust between us. The script is wonderful, the dialogues are strong, and a magnificent team. The journey has just begun, and it already feels beautiful. I wake up excited to shoot every day, and in just a few more days, we'll be on your screens — ready to make you smile, laugh, and maybe even cry a little!" With her trademark warmth and screen presence, Supriya Shukla is all set to become the emotional anchor of Ufff… Yeh Love Hai Mushkil. Whether it's a sharp one-liner, a heartfelt monologue, or that classic 'mom glare' — when Supriya's on screen, expect emotion, depth, and a whole lot of heart. Keep reading this space for more updates.
News18
12-05-2025
- General
- News18
Mango Magic: 4 Refreshing Recipes to Sweeten Your Summer
Curated By : Swati Chaturvedi Last Updated: May 12, 2025, 07:58 IST Dive into these easy-to-follow recipes and let the magic of mangoes unfold in every bite. Celebrate the vibrant flavours of summer with this refreshing collection of mango-inspired recipes. Whether you're craving something light and creamy, tangy and spicy, or chilled and bold, these dishes highlight the versatility of mango in both its ripe and raw forms. From the airy Mango Coconut Mousse to the zesty Raw Mango & Smoked Corn Chaat, and the cooling Mango Chilli Cold Soup to the indulgent Mango Vol-au-Vent, each recipe offers a unique twist to elevate your seasonal menu. Perfect for entertaining or simply treating yourself, these summer delights capture the essence of sunshine on a plate. Mango Coconut Mousse By Chef Indrani, Angsana Oasis Resort and Spa, Bengaluru A tropical dessert made with Alphonso mangoes and rich coconut cream, delicately set for a light, refreshing finish. This fresh-tasting dessert is perfect for entertaining guests or treating yourself to something special! Prep Time: 20 minutes Chill Time: 3 hours (or overnight) Serves: 6 Ingredients: For the Mousse: 1½ cups Alphonso mango purée (about 2 large mangoes) 1 cup coconut cream (chilled overnight; use only the thick layer on top) 1 cup whipping cream 3 tbsp powdered sugar (adjust to taste) 1 tsp vanilla extract 1½ tsp gelatin (or 1 tsp agar-agar powder for a vegetarian option) 3 tbsp cold water (for gelatin) For Garnish: Fresh mint leaves Toasted coconut flakes Optional: Mango cubes or pistachio crumbs Method: For Gelatin: Bloom the gelatin in cold water for 5 minutes. Heat gently until fully dissolved. For Agar-Agar: Mix agar-agar with ¼ cup water and heat gently until dissolved. Cool slightly before using. To Assemble: Combine the mango purée with coconut cream. Add the prepared gelatin or agar-agar mixture and mix well. Gently fold in the whipped cream to maintain a light and airy texture. Pour into serving glasses and refrigerate until set. To Garnish: Top with toasted coconut flakes and mint leaves before serving. Raw Mango & Smoked Corn Chaat by Chef Shivanna, Angsana Oasis Resort and Spa, Bengaluru A tangy, smoky chaat that balances the tartness of raw mango with sweet, fire-kissed corn. A fun and flavorful snack! Prep Time: 15 minutes Cook Time: 5 minutes Serves: 4 Ingredients: 1 cup raw mango (finely diced) 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or smoked) ¼ cup red onion (finely chopped) ¼ cup tomato (deseeded, finely diced) 2 tbsp fresh coriander leaves 1 green chilli (finely chopped) 1 tsp chaat masala 1 tbsp lemon juice ¼ tsp black salt Salt to taste For Serving: 1 cup papdi or puffed rice Sweet chutney (optional) Sev (optional) Method: In a bowl, combine corn with raw mango, onion, tomato, and green chilli. Add chaat masala, lemon juice, black salt, and salt. Toss gently to mix. To Serve: Serve over puffed rice or papdi. Top with sweet chutney and sev, if desired. Mango Chilli Cold Soup By Chef Prem, Angsana Oasis Resort and Spa, Bengaluru A cool and seasonal soup made with ripe mangoes, a hint of chilli, and citrus. This chilled soup is a bold symphony of flavours, perfect for summer menus. Prep Time: 10 minutes Chill Time: 1 hour (or until serving) Serves: 4 Ingredients: 2 large ripe Alphonso mangoes (peeled, pitted, diced) ½ cup fresh orange juice (strained) 1 small red chilli 1 tbsp lime juice 1 tsp honey (optional; adjust to taste) ½ tsp salt (or to taste) ½ cup cold water Ice cubes (optional, for quick chilling) For Garnish: Fresh mint leaves Drizzle of chilli oil Method: Blend mangoes, orange juice, red chilli, lime juice, honey, salt, and cold water until smooth. To Assemble: Refrigerate before serving. For immediate serving, blend in 2–3 ice cubes. To Serve: Drizzle with chilli oil and garnish with chopped mint leaves. Enjoy chilled! Mango Vol-Au-Vent By The Orchid Hotel, Pune Ingredients For the Stuffing: 200 gm ripe Alphonso mango (diced) 5 gm crushed black pepper 5 gm black salt 2 basil or parsley leaves (chopped) 5 gm grated Parmesan cheese 20 gm feta cheese 2 vol-au-vent pastry cases (store-bought puff cases) Instructions: Dice the mango and finely chop the basil. Mix with crushed black pepper, black salt, and Parmesan cheese. Prepare the vol-au-vent by removing the top layer and hollowing out the center. Fill with the mango-cheese mixture and top with crumbled feta cheese. Swipe Left For Next Video View all Garnish with a mango stick, parsley, or edible flower. Serve at room temperature. The News18 Lifestyle section brings you the latest on health, fashion, travel, food, and culture — with wellness tips, celebrity style, travel inspiration, and recipes. Also Download the News18 App to stay updated!
