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India Gazette
17 hours ago
- Politics
- India Gazette
Shimla: Indian Army hosts seminar on Indo-Tibetan heritage; emphasises strategic, cultural, spiritual linkages
Shimla (Himachal Pradesh) [India], June 28 (ANI): The Surya Command of the Indian Army on Saturday organised a day-long seminar titled 'Interwoven Roots: Shared Indo-Tibetan Heritage' at the headquarters of the Army Training Command in Shimla. The event brought together a wide spectrum of participants, including the Army and Indo-Tibetan Border Police personnel, civil administration officials, Buddhist monks, scholars, students, and civilians to reflect on the enduring civilisational, spiritual, and strategic ties between India and Tibet. Delivering the keynote address, Lt Gen Anindya Sengupta, General Officer Commanding-in-Chief (GOC-in-C), Central Command, highlighted the deeply rooted Indo-Tibetan linkages and stressed the seminar's role in understanding their significance in today's geopolitical context. 'This seminar is a platform to explore the profound historical, cultural, spiritual, and strategic ties that bind India and Tibet. These are two ancient civilisations with interwoven roots that continue to shape a shared identity,' said Lt Gen Sengupta. 'This is not a shared past we're discussing; this is about engaging in meaningful dialogue that will guide our future in light of evolving geopolitical challenges,' he noted. Drawing parallels with a similar seminar held earlier at Nalanda University, the Army commander stated that the Himalayan belt has never been a barrier, as once believed by colonial administrators, but a corridor of civilisation where goods, philosophies, and ideas flowed freely along ancient trade routes like the Silk Route. 'From the diplomatic missions between Nalanda and the Tibetan plateau to the spiritual journeys of Indian masters like Guru Padmasambhava, the Indo-Tibetan exchange has been vibrant and transformational. Even today, the monastic institutions of Himachal Pradesh continue to serve as living repositories of this dialogue,' he said. Speaking on the strategic dimension, he underscored that India's northern borders remain sensitive and require constant vigilance. 'From the 1962 war to the Nathu La clashes, we've seen that the terrain demands not just readiness, but surveillance, technological connectivity, and a nuanced strategy. Our heritage is not just spiritual, but strategic,' Lt Gen Sengupta added. Renowned French scholar and expert on Tibetan affairs Claude Arpi, who also addressed the gathering, delivered a wide-ranging historical and political overview of Indo-Tibetan relations, tracing them from the early Buddhist period to contemporary challenges. He emphasised the importance of Tibetan spiritual traditions and touched upon the sensitive issue of the reincarnation of the 14th Dalai Lama, which he said has global implications. 'Whether the Dalai Lama chooses reincarnation or emanation, that decision lies with him... What we do know is that the Panchen Lama, recognised by Tibetans, disappeared in 1995, and the child named by China was reportedly told to follow a political script. This issue remains unresolved,' he said. 'I've always been wary of politicising reincarnation. China's attempt to decide religious succession, a deeply spiritual matter, undermines the entire system... His Holiness has already said clearly that he will not be reborn in China. He has indicated in his writings that he may reincarnate in a free country, likely India,' Arpi noted. 'From the ancient kingdom of Zhang Zhung and figures like Rinchen Zangpo to the Zorawar Singh expedition in 1841, we must study these as part of our shared political archaeology... The importance of the Kailash Yatra, the role of trade along the Silk Route, and monasteries as centres of diplomacy all speak to our intertwined legacies,' he further added. Arpi also flagged concern over the steady decline in the Tibetan population in India, noting that nearly 40 per cent of Tibetans have left India, and called for stronger efforts to rebuild cultural and strategic links, especially across border regions like Ngari and Western Tibet. A message from the organisers welcomed participants with the aim to 'deepen understanding of the contemporary dimensions of Indo-Tibetan relations, encompassing historical, cultural, and economic linkages.' It stated that the seminar aims to illuminate the shared past, inform the present, and guide the future of these interconnected regions. The seminar concluded with a call to strengthen border area development, promote archaeological research, facilitate archival access, and revive cultural exchanges, including opening new routes for Kailash Yatra, improving local radio broadcasts beyond borders, and preserving endangered Himalayan languages. Both speakers, Lt Gen Anindya Sengupta and Claude Arpi, underlined the need to protect the civilisational ethos that India and Tibet have jointly nurtured and emphasised that this heritage must continue to inform both security policy and cultural diplomacy in a changing global order. (ANI)
Al Bawaba
3 days ago
- Business
- Al Bawaba
Shaza Hotels Eyes New Opportunities with Strategic Growth Plans
Amid rising demand for regionally inspired hospitality experiences, Shaza Hotels is emerging as a leading regional brand poised for strategic expansion across the Middle East and key Muslim-friendly markets. With an ethos rooted in Eastern traditions and a progressive vision for the future, Shaza is one of the few brands successfully bridging the gap between regional identity and global Abu Salih, Vice President, Business Development and Growth, Shaza Hotels and Mysk by Shaza, stated, 'Today, investors and travellers alike are placing greater value on culturally immersive brands that speak to local narratives. The beauty of regional brands like Shaza is our ability to be agile, authentic, and closely aligned with community values. This builds loyalty not only among guests but also among our partners.'Shaza's focus on responsible growth, backed by strong distribution networks, digital transformation, and loyalty programmes tailored for regional travellers, is allowing it to scale sustainably while maintaining its distinct global markets look to diversify offerings, the success of regional players like Shaza signals a shift in investor and guest confidence - from legacy luxury to meaningful, modern brands. Shaza's growth journey continues on the Silk Route, fuelled by purpose and guided by heritage. © 2000 - 2025 Al Bawaba ( Signal PressWire is the world's largest independent Middle East PR distribution service.
Time of India
21-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Time of India
‘Bollywood and independent music can co-exist on the same playlist'
Independent music was huge in the 90s and early 2000s with artists like Lucky Ali, Shaan, Alisha Chinai and bands like Silk Route , Indian Ocean, Euphoria giving the genre a centerstage. Then came a period when artistes rushed to playback sing for Bollywood. But the last couple of years have seen that shift once again in favour of indie music. On World Music Day today, artistes weigh on the pros and cons of going independent once again and how Bollywood playback and independent music can now co-exist. Zaeden : If you have a loyal audience, indie music is creatively fulfilling I think people are just craving authenticity right now. Indie music feels more raw, more human. And with music streaming platforms, the audience has access to music that feels theirs, not just something pushed through a movie. As an indie artiste, you're building your own world. The recognition might take longer, but it's yours. And financially, if you have a loyal audience, live shows, brand collabs, deals — it can actually be more sustainable and creatively fulfilling. Kanishk Seth : In indie music, there is no gatekeeping, but Bollywood gives you a bigger reach When digital streaming platforms came in, there was a shift in the way listeners chose songs. Lot of musicians and singers didn't feel the need to get a Bollywood breakthrough, they could release music very easily through these platforms. There is no gatekeeping here. Having said that, songs in Bollywood right now are reaching a massive audience because a lot of money is being put into promoting them. With this, the artiste reaches more people. But while doing independent music, most of them don't have that kind of a budget. OAFF : With independent songs, listeners get to explore variety India always had a huge indie scene. It has come to a point where a Bollywood song and an indie song can co-exist on a playlist. This is because we have democratised music and music platforms give listeners a lot more access to explore sounds. We are also seeing a lot of collab between indie musicians and Bollywood, like I was an independent artiste before I composed music for Gehraiyaan. It's not anymore about indie music or Bollywood music but just about music. Savera: Making music, whether independent or for Bollywood, gives us fulfillment Most musicians make music because it makes them happy. And I don't think indie music or Bollywood music has anything to do with that. Think about it, why would someone spend years of their life relentlessly practising their art? The only answer that makes sense to me is that it gives us a fulfilment that is only felt and can't be described. However, social media is an integral part of indie music. Akanksha Bhandari: Indie music gives you great freedom Lot of artistes from India are collaborating with global artistes and experimenting with different sounds. Today, artistes are happy doing Bollywood, but they are happier releasing independent songs. The satisfaction you get seeing your independent songs get good numbers is amazing. While singing for Bollywood, there are limitations in terms of emotions and sounds since it is for a specific scene. Prakriti Kakar : Playback gives you recognition, indie music gives you identity When I work on an indie track, I get to shape it from the ground up — the melody, the lyrics, the vibe — it's me. It feels like a conversation with our audience, not just a performance. With Bollywood, as much as it's exciting to be part of big films and reach a massive audience, you're essentially stepping into a brief, a character, a situation, someone else's vision. Sukriti Kakar: Gen Z listeners are more drawn to vibes Listeners are more drawn to storytelling by indie artistes and are building a community because of the relatability of these songs. Also, indie artistes aren't tied to commercial formulas and it's easier to build a niche and specially Gen Z listeners are more drawn to moods and vibes than commercial virality. Social media platforms play a big role in the popularity of indie music in India.
NDTV
10-06-2025
- Entertainment
- NDTV
Bhumi Pednekar Looks Summer Chic In A Plaid Strapless Top And Matching Pants
Bhumi Pednekar's closet has recently been a mix of vibrant numbers, sheer silhouettes and ultra-glam styles. From walking the ramp like an absolute pro to making every public appearance a fashion moment, the actress has always scored high on our style meter. Recently, Bhumi stunned in a plaid top and pants co-ord set from Rahul Mishra's Fall-Winter 2025 collection, Silk Route. The top came with an off-shoulder design and a voluminous, ruffled-puffed detail on the chest. The statement piece was broad and layered, drawing attention to Bhumi's sculpted physique. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Bhumi Pednekar (@bhumipednekar) Styled by Meagan Concessio, Bhumi paired the top with matching high-waisted pants. Fitted around the waist and hips, the pants accentuated the figure and flared length added panache to the fit. The overall cut and fit of the pants gave a vintage-inspired yet contemporary vibe, perfect for a statement fashion moment. The entire outfit's pattern featured shades of deep red, dark blue, and hints of black, with the classic plaid pattern that added texture to it. Bhumi completed the look with pointed purple pumps. Her minimal but elegant accessories included long earrings and rings that complemented the bold outfit without overpowering it. For makeup, Bhumi Pednekar opted for an earthy eyeshadow and thin eyeliner along the upper lash line. A touch of blush on her cheeks and lips topped with a warm, reddish-brown lipstick sealed her beauty deal. A slicked-back updo, with no visible loose strands, completed her fashion look.
CTV News
02-06-2025
- Business
- CTV News
Halifax businesses worry about uncertain future with Canada Post
Shop owners in Halifax are frustrated by uncertainties surrounding the dispute between Canada Post and The Canadian Union of Postal Workers. A family-owned Japanese-themed shop in Halifax relies heavily on Canada post's services. Most of their inventory is shipped from Japan. The strike last year had a big impact and they worry about another one. 'When Canada Post stopped services last year it was a hard time for us because we couldn't get anything and we had to switch to private couriers and that was more expensive,' says Ferdinand Ballesteros, the Ikebana Shop owner. Ballesteros said he and his wife took the hit to their company's bottom line thinking it was only temporary. They said they are ahead of things if there's another strike. 'We have tried to manage the schedule such that we don't ask our suppliers to ship out right now and not do anything for them to be caught in limbo,' says Ballesteros. Cailean Jan, owner of the Silk Route in Halifax said she's trying to figure out options to reach her customers that are more reliable than Canada Post. Ikebana Shop The storefront of Halifax's Ikebana Shop is pictured. (Emma Convey/CTV Atlantic) 'People do like to shop online and I don't want to have people being discouraged to shop because they are not sure if or when they are going to get their items.' Canada Post has rejected a request from the CUPW to send their ongoing labour dispute to binding arbitration. 'CUPW has put forward an option to go to binding arbitration, that would add another 12 to 18 months of uncertainty because it's a long lengthy process with the lawyers battling it out,' says Jon Hamilton, Vice President of Communications at Canada Post. Hamilton said it would mean their employees wouldn't have a contract for a long time and it would sideline their right to vote on another agreement because it's binding. CUPW made the request in a statement Saturday, saying it was inviting Canada Post to a fair, final and binding arbitration process to resolve negotiations. Silk Route The sign for the Silk Route in Halifax, N.S., is pictured. 'This all comes down to the government,' says Dwayne Corner, CUPW president. 'When they ordered us back to work, they did not send us to binding arbitration like they did the other parties like the rail workers and the port workers.' Corner said this would have been settled had it gone to arbitration the first time. The Crown corporation dismissed the proposal in a response on Sunday, saying it wants to 'restore stability' to the postal service and arguing the union's request for binding arbitration would do the opposite. 'We are probably further apart now than we were last year, so after 18 months we have put forward an offer and we believe employees should have a chance to voice their opinion and vote,' says Hamilton. CUPW has been in a legal strike position since May 23 and has opted to ban their members from working overtime. 'We hope that the minister will support us and deny the corporation's request to take the vote to the members. we want them to continue bargaining with us,' says Corner. For more Nova Scotia news, visit our dedicated provincial page
