The Indian Panorama

Tag: Miscellany

  • AR RAHMAN AND RAMAYANA

    AR RAHMAN AND RAMAYANA

    By Mike Ghouse

    Sri Ram is a figure revered by people of all faiths; he is our cultural icon, and we are all influenced by the Maryada Purushottam, as he is often called. As a Muslim, I view him as an integral part of our legacy and hold him in high regard among humanity’s great personalities. I grew up listening to Kathas (stories) in my hometown of Yelahanka, near Bangalore, and while in Dallas, I had the opportunity to hear Morari Bapuji at the Ekta Mandir. He highlighted all the virtues of Sri Ram.

    Some narrow-minded individuals try to confine Sri Ram as if he were their personal property. However, no one truly owns Ram; instead, he belongs to all of us. Each of us can learn from the values he embodied and strive to follow them.

    Sri Ram, also known as Rama, is one of the most revered figures in Hinduism. He is celebrated as the embodiment of moral virtue, righteousness (dharma), duty, compassion, courage, and ideal leadership. Often referred to as Maryada Purushottama, meaning “the supreme man,” he upholds the highest standards of conduct and honor. His life and adventures are central to the ancient Hindu epic, the Ramayana, which is attributed to the sage Valmiki. This epic is one of the two major epics of Hinduism, the other being the Mahabharata. The story symbolizes the triumph of good over evil, emphasizes the importance of fulfilling one’s duty even in times of adversity, and highlights the power of devotion and loyalty.

    Music maestro A.R. Rahman recently discussed his work on the album for Nitesh Tiwari’s upcoming film, “Ramayana,” emphasizing that his faith did not hinder his connection to the project. He also shared insights about collaborating with Hans Zimmer on the film starring Ranbir Kapoor and Yash. We need to embrace a Muslim artist like Rahman as musical director for the epic “Ramayana,” as it highlights the universality of Sri Ram’s character. Rather than diminishing Ram, we should celebrate his significance.

    In an interview with BBC Asian’s YouTube channel, Rahman was asked whether his religious beliefs influenced his composition process. Responding to this, he said, “I studied in a Brahmin school, and every year we had Ramayana and Mahabharata, so I know the story. The story is about how virtuous a person is, higher ideals, and all that stuff. People may argue, but I value all those good things — any good things that you can learn from. The prophet has said that knowledge is something invaluable, no matter where you get it from — a king, a beggar, a good act, or a bad one. You can’t shy away from things.”

    He further reflected on the larger message of unity and growth, adding, “I think we need to elevate from small-mindedness and selfishness. Because when we elevate, and we become radiant, we become a radiant of that, and that’s very important. I am proud of the whole project because it’s from India to the whole world, with such love. Hans Zimmer is Jewish, I am Muslim, and the Ramayana is Hindu.”

    (Dr. Ghouse is the President and founder of the Center for Pluralism and director of the World Muslim Congress. He is an Interfaith Wedding Officiant for InterfaithMarriages.org and a Muslim Wedding Officiant. He is a Muslim, a Pluralist, an activist, a speaker, an author, and a social scientist. More on Google.)

  • Andrew Pappachen Receives 2025 Good Samaritan Award for Decades of Service

    Andrew Pappachen Receives 2025 Good Samaritan Award for Decades of Service

    Celebrated Indian American Leader Recognized by Global Malayalee Christian Forum and CMS College Alumni

    • Ajay Ghosh

    KOTTAYAM (TIP): Andrew Pappachen, a distinguished Indian American community leader, was honored with the 2025 Good Samaritan Award by the Global Malayalee Christian Forum in a solemn ceremony at the Kochi Ramada Inn on January 17, 2026. This prestigious award celebrates his unwavering commitment to the Indian diaspora, acknowledging over 30 years of dedicated service and leadership.

    In a separate event marked by warmth and nostalgia, Pappachen was felicitated by his classmates and professors from CMS College in Kottayam. The gathering, held on a recent Saturday, highlighted his significant contributions to the global Malayalee community and brought together friends, mentors, and supporters from his formative years.

    Renowned writer Prof. S. Sivadas, classmate Rev. Dr. K.M. George, and professors including Dr. George Cherian, Dr. Joseph Cherian, Dr. Mary Kuruvilla, Prof. Parvathy, Thomas Job, and Prof. John presented Andrew with a ceremonial shawl, signifying their respect and admiration.

    Expressing his gratitude, Pappachen described the recognition as the greatest honor of his life, emphasizing the humility and pride he felt in receiving such accolades from both his professional community and alma mater.

    Andrew is honored.

    Andrew Pappachen’s journey began in Kerala, India, where he earned a master’s degree in chemistry from Kerala University. After migrating to the United States in 1973, he continued his academic pursuits, obtaining a master’s degree in environmental engineering from Stevens Institute of Technology, New Jersey. Furthering his expertise, he completed a doctoral program and earned specialized Mini master’s degrees in water Pollution and Air Pollution, as well as a degree in Public Administration from Rutgers University.

    With a career spanning 47 years in government service, Pappachen worked for the City of Newark, New Jersey, from 1974 to 2018. He held key positions such as Chief Engineer, Director of Operations for Newark Watershed Conservation and Development Corporation, and Director of Public Works. Between 2012 and 2019, he served as Environmental Commissioner in Montville Township, where he continues to reside. Currently, he works as an Environmental Consultant and is a New Jersey State certified water distribution system and water treatment operator. Since 2000, he has also served as an Adjunct Professor, teaching courses on water pollution, water and wastewater treatment, and environmental regulations.

    Andrew is awarded a plaque.

    Pappachen is an accomplished author, with several books published in both English and Malayalam. His English titles include Love With The Ghost, A Journey Alone, Rays of Light From The Darkness of A Prison Cell, Zero to Infinity, and Story of Achu, each offering unique perspectives and narratives. His Malayalam works, published by Prabath Book House in Trivandrum, comprise Thalamurakalethedi, Theerdhadanathintte Kadha, Eruttil Ninnu Velichathilaekku, and Sophi.

    Beyond literature and academia, Andrew Pappachen has played a pivotal role in numerous organizations. He is the founder, former Global President, and chairman of the World Malayalee Council, and has held leadership posts at the Kerala Center New York, Asian American Heritage Council, Asia Society, and Festival of People in New Jersey. His community service has been recognized by various associations, including the Asian American Political Coalition, Federation of Indian Associations, Kerala Center New York, Staten Island Malayalee Association, Kerala Cultural Association, and YMCA.

    Driven by a vision to unite Malayalees worldwide, Pappachen founded the World Malayalee Voice and has worked tirelessly to foster communication and preserve Malayalee identity across generations. He is the son of Korah and Lucy Andrews from Kollad, Kerala. His wife, Somini, hails from Vadavathoor, Kottayam. Their daughter, Simmy, is an executive in healthcare management, while their son, Kevin, manages fraud investigations at a New Jersey bank. Kevin’s wife, Grace, and their daughter, Anna, complete the family.

    Andrew Pappachen’s life and career stand as a testament to dedicated service, visionary leadership, and the enduring power of community.

    (Press release issued by Ajay Ghosh, Media Coordinator, AAPI)

  • Story of a 13-year-old First generation Indian American

    Story of a 13-year-old First generation Indian American

    At only thirteen years old, Ava Walia has already accomplished what many spend a lifetime striving toward. Born and raised in Nassau County, New York, Ava, who celebrated her thirteenth birthday this July, is the newly crowned National All American Miss Preteen for the National American Miss (NAM) Organization. She holds a historic distinction: the very first generation Indian American from Nassau County to ever earn this national title. Her journey to the crown is impressive, but her story extends far beyond the stage. Ava’s accomplishments reflect leadership, compassion, advocacy, and maturity well beyond her years.

    Ava’s 2025 NAM journey began long before the national spotlight. Earlier that year, she was recognized as Miss Nassau County by National American Miss, a moment that inspired her to set an even higher goal, becoming the National All American Miss Preteen. Her passion for pageantry began not on a big stage, but in 2022 at a small, local community pageant exclusively for Indian girls. That first pageant, deeply rooted in her culture, became a memory she treasures. It was the beginning of a path she never imagined would lead to national recognition.

    Fast forward to Thanksgiving week of 2025 in Orlando, Florida, her 2nd year competing at NAM Nationals. Ava returned home not just with the national crown, but with a remarkable list of achievements in optional competitions. Out of more than one hundred contestants, she was awarded Brand Ambassador, recognizing her as a role model who reflects the values of NAM through leadership, confidence, and her strong social media presence. Ava loves using her platform to empower young girls, share her appearances, and demonstrate what it means to be a “NAM Girl.”

    One of her proudest accomplishments from the national pageant was earning a Top 5 placement in the prestigious Face of Ashley Rene’s modeling campaign. This optional competition, featuring over 300 contestants ages 4 to 13, selects only a handful of girls who embody style, confidence, and the essence of Ashley Rene’s brand. Ava was the only first generation Indian American contestant to make the Top 5 this year.

    Her success didn’t stop there. Ava won National Casual Wear, a style and modeling optional that highlights personality through fashion. She was also awarded Heart of Service for completing more than 6,000 volunteer hours in just three years, along with Golden Achievement in Service for her outstanding dedication to her platform. Among her many placements, Ava ranked Top 5 in Runway, Actress, Spokesmodel, Photogenic, Top Model, and Dream Model. She also earned 1st Runner Up for Miss Congeniality, a title voted on by fellow contestants and one that Ava holds especially close to her heart. But behind every sash, crown, and sparkling moment, there is a mission that guides her, and that mission began with love, heartbreak, and a promise.

    A major reason Ava competes in pageants is to amplify her voice. Her platform, Save A Kidney, began as a personal story and transformed into a statewide movement. For Ava, advocacy did not start after she lost her grandfather, it began even before. She knew the power of the sash and chose to use it as a microphone for something deeply meaningful. Ava comes from a proud Indian family and lives in a joint household of ten, a strong cultural tradition symbolizing unity and togetherness. It used to be eleven before she lost her grandfather, Harjeet, in 2022. He was her best friend, her hero, and the person who inspired her life’s purpose.
    In 2020, half of Ava’s family uprooted their lives and temporarily moved from New York to Indiana so her grandfather could receive a lifesaving liver transplant. Although the transplant was successful, his kidneys failed the following year. He now needed a second transplant, this time for a different organ. But New York has one of the lowest numbers of registered organ donors in the country, and help didn’t come in time. Ava’s grandfather never received the kidney transplant he needed. That heartbreak became Ava’s calling. She transformed her grief into action and created Save A Kidney, originally focusing on kidney disease awareness. But through years of advocacy and meeting other young activists, Ava realized that while kidneys were vital, all organs are important, and all deserve awareness. She expanded her mission to champion organ donation as a whole, speaking for families like hers who didn’t get their miracle.

    In 2024, Ava became the first Junior Ambassador for Donate Life New York State. That same year, she served at the organization’s largest annual fundraising event, An Evening for Good, where she helped raise over $100,000 alongside committee members. Her ability to inspire donors and rally communities is one of her strongest gifts. But Ava wasn’t done. She wanted to create something lasting, something that would educate children, spark empathy, and keep her grandfather’s story alive for generations. That dream came to life when she became a published child author. Her book, Ava and Grandpa Harjeet’s Journey, recounts her grandfather’s battle with kidney disease and her perspective as a granddaughter who refuses to let other families experience preventable loss. All profits from the book benefit Donate Life New York State. Throughout the year, Ava hosts “Meet the Author” events at libraries, schools, Girl Scout troops, Boys & Girls Clubs, and more, sharing her message with the next generation.

    Ava’s advocacy quickly earned recognition beyond her local community. Political leaders throughout Nassau County, Long Island, and New York State took notice of her passion and activism. In 2024, she partnered with Assemblyman Jake Blumencranz, becoming the first child, and the first first generation Indian American child, to draft and propose legislation related to organ donation. Their bill, the New York Saves Lives Act, aimed to add the Donate Life registry option to all State University of New York (SUNY) and City University of New York (CUNY) admission applications. Although the bill did not pass, Ava’s role in drafting and advocating for it made history. Her efforts continued into 2025, where Ava proudly supported the passage of the HEART Act, legislation that allows multi listing for New Yorkers waiting for organ transplants. Advocacy at this level is rare for adults, yet Ava, at just thirteen, has already contributed to meaningful change in state policy.

    Her hard work has earned her more than ten major governmental recognitions, including county citations, town and state citations, senator proclamations, assembly citations, the Office of the Executive citation, and the President’s Volunteer Service Gold Award. These acknowledgments have fueled her dream of one day becoming the first female President of the United States, a goal she embraces with confidence and excitement.

    Yet despite her extraordinary accomplishments, at her core, Ava is still a normal preteen with a big heart and even bigger dreams. She is a straight A student who takes school very seriously, something her family values immensely. Education always comes first in the Walia household, and Ava knows she must maintain academic excellence to continue competing in pageants. Her favorite subject is social studies, especially American history.

    Outside school and advocacy, Ava loves Bollywood dance and Girl Scouts, two activities she has been involved in since age five. Bollywood dance allows her to stay connected to her Indian heritage, and she has performed at hundreds of community events, including one for the current Prime Minister of India. Girl Scouts sparked her passion for service, and in 2025, she recently partnered with the Girl Scouts of Nassau County to help create a brand-new Organ Donation Awareness Badge for all six scouting levels. This badge will educate Girl Scouts across the county and inspire them to help save lives, something Ava is incredibly proud of!

    Ava Walia is a shining example of resilience, leadership, and the American dream. At just thirteen, she has transformed personal tragedy into passionate advocacy, used her crown to impact thousands, and carved a path of service that will inspire generations to come. Her journey is only beginning, yet her legacy is already taking shape.

  • Cultural Diplomacy and Creative Exchange: My Reflections on the Study Visit to Poland

    Cultural Diplomacy and Creative Exchange: My Reflections on the Study Visit to Poland

    • By Murtaza Ali Khan

    As a cultural journalist and critic, I have often believed that true diplomacy happens not only in embassies or conference halls but also in museums, art galleries, and over dinner tables where ideas flow freely. My recent visit to Warsaw, Poland from October 20 to 22, 2025, as part of a study program organized by the Polish Ministry of Foreign Affairs and supported by the Polish Institute New Delhi reaffirmed this belief.

    I arrived in Warsaw on a bright autumn afternoon, greeted warmly at Chopin Airport by our coordinator and interpreter, whose effortless professionalism set the tone for the days ahead. After checking into my hotel, I headed to my first meeting—with the Director of the Department of Foreign Cooperation at the Ministry of Culture and National Heritage. The Director of Polish Institute New Delhi also joined us on the occasion, adding a powerful Indo-Polish focus to the conversation.

    The discussion largely touched on the growing cultural ties between India and Poland, emphasizing the need to facilitate not only governmental partnerships but also exchanges among artists, filmmakers, and cultural scholars. The ministry representative spoke passionately about her ministry’s commitment to strengthening Poland’s cultural presence in South Asia and exploring new avenues for cooperation in cinema, heritage conservation, and the performing arts.

    Later that afternoon, I visited the POLIN Museum of the History of Polish Jews, one of Warsaw’s most profound spaces of remembrance. Walking through its immersive exhibits, I was deeply moved by how Poland confronts its layered history with both honesty and empathy. For a country that has endured so much, the POLIN Museum stands as a symbol of reconciliation through education and art.

    At the Gallery of Modern Art.

    The evening concluded with dinner at Pod Gigantami, a historic restaurant known for its Old Warsaw charm, where over plates of exquisite Polish cuisine, conversations with fellow participants and Polish hosts revolved around cross-cultural storytelling and the shared power of cinema to build empathy.

    The second day began with a meeting at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, where I interacted with the Deputy Director of the Department of Cultural Diplomacy. The Deputy Director outlined Poland’s vision for cultural outreach, focusing on collaborations with media professionals and cultural commentators from Asia. I was particularly intrigued by her emphasis on soft power and the role of cultural narratives in shaping contemporary diplomacy—a theme that resonates deeply with my own work as a critic.

    From there, I proceeded to the Museum of Modern Art, where the Museum Director Joanna Mytkowska shared insights into Poland’s evolving contemporary art scene. The museum’s emphasis on social engagement and public dialogue reminded me of similar movements in India’s independent art spaces.

    Zacheta National Gallery.

    Later, at the Zachęta National Gallery of Art, I got to interact with Museum Director Agnieszka Pindera. At the gallery, I witnessed how modern Polish artists reinterpret national identity in the face of globalization. The discussions with curators and art historians underscored how both India and Poland grapple with questions of memory, modernity, and identity through creative expression.

    In the evening, I visited the National Institute of Architecture and Urban Planning (NIAiU), where I learnt about he institute’s initiatives in documenting and preserving architectural heritage. Our conversation drifted toward sustainable design, urban regeneration, and the shared challenges of preserving history while embracing modernization.

    Dinner that night capped an intellectually stimulating day with laughter, warmth, and cultural camaraderie thanks to the luminary presence of various stalwarts specialising in Indology.

    My final day in Warsaw began with a visit to the National Museum, an architectural gem housing centuries of Polish artistic achievement. From Renaissance masters to avant-garde innovators, the collection offered a sweeping panorama of Poland’s aesthetic evolution. I was particularly struck by the museum’s commitment to accessibility and its efforts to engage younger audiences—a model worth emulating in India’s museum culture.

    Visiting the Polish Institute of International Affairs (PISM), proved to be a masterclass in Public Diplomacy as he provided some key insights into his research methodology.

    Before departing for Kraków, I reflected on the immense value of such cross-cultural study visits. Beyond formal meetings and museum tours, what stood out was the Polish hospitality, intellectual openness, and genuine curiosity about India’s creative landscape. As someone who has spent years chronicling the intersections of cinema, culture, and identity, I found this journey deeply enriching. It reminded me that cultural diplomacy thrives when built upon shared values, artistic respect, and the courage to engage with history.

    Warsaw, buzzing with Chopin’s music, resilient spirit and vibrant cultural energy, left an indelible impression on me. I now head to Krakow for the 2025 Conrad Festival with renewed inspiration and a conviction that art and dialogue still remain our most powerful bridges.

    The author

    Murtaza Ali Khan is an award-winning journalist who has been covering art, culture, music, and entertainment for a decade and a half. Khan regularly appears on radio and TV as a media historian and cultural commentator. Khan has also curated various cultural initiatives for various Embassies and Cultural Centers. He has also served on the jury of prestigious National Film Awards for 2023 and 2024. He has translated the bestselling book ‘Hindujas and Bollywood,’ launched in London by Bollywood Superstar Akshay Kumar, about the global journey of over 1200 Hindi films from 1950s to 1980s, into English. His education spans science & technology, mass communication, and management.

    Murtaza Ali Khan

    Critic | Curator | Journalist | Historian

    Google | Wikipedia

    Twitter | Facebook | Muck Rack | LinkedIn

    Selected Articles

    The Sunday Guardian | Firstpost

    The Hindu | The Daily Guardian

    The New Indian Express | The Patriot

    The Quint | Newslaundry | Huff Post India/ The Indian Panorama

    (Murtaza can be reached at  murtaza.jmi@gmail.com / Phone: +91 9717554334)

  • Carrying the Torch: How Raell Padamsee is Taking Alyque Padamsee’s Legacy Forward

    Carrying the Torch: How Raell Padamsee is Taking Alyque Padamsee’s Legacy Forward

    By Murtaza Ali Khan

    When Raell Padamsee speaks about theatre, there is a spark in her voice that carries both pride and responsibility. As the daughter of legendary theatre director Alyque Padamsee and actress Pearl Padamsee, Raell grew up immersed in the magic of the stage. Today, she is not only preserving that legacy but also reshaping it for a new generation—balancing reverence for tradition with the courage to innovate.

    Her latest endeavour, taking Broken Images—directed by Alyque himself and starring the incomparable Shabana Azmi—to the US, starting with New York this October, feels particularly personal. “Broken Images is very close to my heart because it reflects both the artistry and vision of my father, Alyque Padamsee,” she says. “He directed it with such brilliance—merging theatre and technology in a way that was ahead of its time. Bringing it to the US, and especially to New York, feels like completing a circle—taking Indian theatre of international quality to the world stage, just as Alyque always believed it should be.”

    For Raell, staging this production is far more than another theatre tour. It is an act of homage. “This performance is not just about staging a play; it’s about sharing his legacy with global audiences and proving, once again, that Indian theatre can be world-class, bold, and relevant. It’s an honour to both Girish Karnad and Dad,” she reflects. 

    Courage as Legacy

    Ask Raell what she considers her father’s greatest gift, and the answer is immediate: courage. “My father’s legacy is one of courage—courage to experiment, to challenge norms, and to tell stories that matter. He taught me that theatre must be larger than entertainment; it should provoke thought, stir emotion, and reflect the society we live in,” she says.

    This philosophy lies at the heart of her work with the CREATE Foundation, which she founded in 2002. Through productions like Rediscover the Epic, Mahatma, and The Sound of Music, she has brought together children from mainstream schools and marginalized NGOs—including differently abled children—on one stage. “Integration has been at the heart of all our work… giving them equal space to shine on stage,” she explains.

    That mission continues with her upcoming play Alice in Paradise, which reimagines the classic tale while uniting children across diverse backgrounds. “Our whole life ethos, thanks to both Alyque and my mother Pearl, was using theatre not just to entertain, but to give back,” she adds. 

    Theatre as Social Catalyst

    Raell’s projects frequently extend beyond art, entering the realm of activism. In 2024, she collaborated with theatre veteran Lushin Dubey for the Rise Up for Equality!! festival, showcasing women-centric plays while working with the Mumbai Police’s Nirbhaya Squad to promote the women’s helpline “103.” “This was more than theatre—it was a mission to make Maharashtra the safest state in the world. By amplifying the helpline, we aimed to create awareness, galvanise action, and push for institutional change,” she recalls.

    In this way, Raell carries forward not just her father’s artistic courage but also her mother’s compassion. “For me, this is how I continue the legacy of both Alyque and Pearl Padamsee—by ensuring theatre remains a catalyst for transformation, empowerment, and lasting social change.” 

    The Shabana Azmi Connection

    Broken Images also represents a creative convergence between Alyque and one of his most admired collaborators, Shabana Azmi. “Shabana and my father shared a bond rooted in artistry, mutual respect, and a relentless pursuit of truth on stage. He always admired her ability to embody complexity with honesty and depth. Casting her in Broken Images was his way of ensuring the role had both intellectual weight and emotional authenticity,” Raell says.

    She fondly recalls a memory from their Singapore staging of the play: “The response was so overwhelming that the auditorium filled to capacity, and Dad and I actually had to sit outside because there were no seats left for us. For me, that moment captured exactly what he envisioned: theatre that moved people so deeply that it transcended borders, languages, and even our own access to it!”

    Poster – Broken Images

    Looking Ahead

    Raell is determined that Alyque’s contributions to theatre and advertising should not be relegated to nostalgia. Along with new productions—Unfaithfully Yours starring Mona Singh and Rohit Roy, Untitled and Aruna’s Story with Lushin Dubey—she is working on a Virtual Alyque Padamsee Museum. The immersive platform will allow audiences to rediscover his iconic plays, ad campaigns, and creative philosophy.

    She has also overseen the release of Alyque’s final book, Let Me Hijack Your Mind, co-authored with Vandana Saxena Poria and published by Penguin India. “True to his style, the book is bold and provocative—it challenges deep-rooted societal beliefs and invites readers to rethink love, marriage, money, gender, leadership, and faith. It is truly Dad’s legacy for the future—it teaches people to question their innermost thoughts and follow only those that lead to a flourishing life,” she says. 

    The Guiding Voice

    To Raell, her father’s influence is not confined to memory; it remains a daily compass. “Alyque Padamsee was a visionary. He redefined what theatre could be in India—grand in scale, uncompromising in quality, and deeply human in storytelling. He was exacting, yes, but his precision was born out of love for the craft. For him, theatre was sacred—it demanded rigor, passion, and honesty. To me, he was not just a father, but a mentor whose voice still guides me every time I step into rehearsal,” she reflects.

    She adds, with humility, “If I can achieve even a fraction of the impact he made on stage, I will feel I have done justice to his legacy.”

    The tickets are available on Sulekha.Com 

    (Murtaza Ali Khan is an award-winning cultural writer and critic with more than a decade and a half experience. He can be reached at murtaza.jmi@gmail.com).

  • Suozzi Makes History as First U.S. Congressman to Visit Kartarpur Corridor

    Suozzi Makes History as First U.S. Congressman to Visit Kartarpur Corridor

    Commends India and Pakistan for Peaceful Cooperation: “A powerful symbol of unity and reconciliation”

    Tom Suozzi in the Gurdwara Sahib Diwan Hall

    WASHINGTON, D.C. (TIP): Congressman Tom Suozzi (D-NY), a member of the Congressional India Caucus and a champion of interfaith understanding, made history during a recent bipartisan Congressional delegation trip to Pakistan by becoming the first sitting Member of the United States Congress to visit the sacred Kartarpur Sahib via the Kartarpur Corridor.
    The Kartarpur Corridor, a historic initiative jointly undertaken by India and Pakistan, allows Sikh pilgrims from India visa-free access to the final resting place of Guru Nanak Dev Ji, the founder of Sikhism.
    “Kartarpur Sahib is a powerful symbol of peace, unity, and reconciliation. In a world too often divided by conflict and mistrust, this sacred site reminds us of our shared humanity,” said Suozzi. “It’s nothing short of miraculous that two countries, often at odds, came together in mutual respect and reverence for Guru Nanak Dev Ji to open this corridor.”

    Tom Suozzi in conversation with a Sikh gentleman

    Suozzi’s visit to Kartarpur came during a congressional delegation to Pakistan, where he met with civil society leaders and government officials. While in Punjab, Suozzi stood at the border between India and Pakistan, reflecting on the power of connection that flows through the border divides. The corridor, opened in 2019, has become a deeply symbolic site for reconciliation and reunion.
    “To see Indian and Pakistani citizens embrace across a border that for decades separated families was one of the most emotional experiences of my life,” Suozzi said. “I commend both governments for creating this humanitarian bridge.”
    Kartarpur Sahib holds deep historical significance as the place where Guru Nanak Dev Ji spent the final years of his life preaching the values of compassion, equality, and unity. His message continues to inspire Sikhs and non-Sikhs alike across South Asia and around the world.
    In a spur of the moment event, Suozzi met several of his own constituents from Hicksville, Syosset, and Bellerose who had traveled to Kartarpur to pay their respects.
    “Whether on Long Island or in Kartarpur, our shared values transcend borders,” said Suozzi. “I will continue working to strengthen U.S. partnerships with both India and Pakistan, promote religious freedom, and support the vibrant South Asian communities that enrich New York’s 3rd Congressional District.

    Tom Suozzi with a mixed crowd of Indians and Pakistanis at the Gurdwara Sahib
  • Noted Indian Film Critic and Journalist Murtaza Ali Khan Honored with RIFF 2025Award for Excellence in Cinema/TV/Media

    Noted Indian Film Critic and Journalist Murtaza Ali Khan Honored with RIFF 2025Award for Excellence in Cinema/TV/Media

    JAIPUR (TIP): Noted Indian film critic and journalist Murtaza Ali Khan has been bestowed with the RIFF 2025 – Award for Excellence for Contribution in Cinema/TV/Media by His Highness Maharaja Shri Gaj Singh II of Jodhpur and the Rajasthan International Film Festival (RIFF). The prestigious honor recognizes Khan’s exceptional contributions to cinema and media, celebrating his extensive work across print, digital, radio, and television platforms.
    Expressing his gratitude, Murtaza Ali Khan stated, “Rajasthan International Film Festival enjoys a great legacy of blending the regional with the international. The Festival Directors Somendra Harsh and Anshu Harsh have been instrumental in putting Rajasthan on the world cinema map. I am personally grateful to His Highness Maharaja Gaj Singh ji and the festival for bestowing me with such an honor.”
    With a career spanning over 15 years, Khan has been at the forefront of film criticism and media, writing for leading national and international publications. He has also served on the jury of the National Film Awards as well as various prestigious film festivals in India and abroad. His expertise extends beyond journalism, as he actively curates film festivals and retrospectives for Embassies and Cultural Institutions. His contributions to international cinema include curating and presenting retrospectives of cinematic legends such as Federico Fellini, Luis Buñuel, Pier Paolo Pasolini, Carlos Saura, and João Moreira Salles. Additionally, he has organized numerous thematic film festivals, including Japanese Samurai Classics, Spanish Icons, Ibero-American Cinema, City of Berlin, Italian Fare Cinema, Austrian Short Films, and Kinoteka Polish Film Festival.
    Khan’s impact in media is equally profound. He has conducted interviews with leading national and international figures from cinema, entertainment, art, and culture. A regular presence on television, he appears as a film expert and media critic on prominent news channels. Additionally, he has translated the bestselling book on Indian cinema, ‘Hindujas and Bollywood,’ into English. With a diverse academic background encompassing science and technology, management, and digital media and arts, Murtaza Ali Khan continues to shape film discourse and cultural appreciation both in India and globally.
    The 2025 Rajasthan International Film Festival proudly presented a special screening of Chitraanjali, a film that highlights the extraordinary journey of Polish artist Stefan Norblin in India, on the final day of the festival. This unique presentation forms a vital part of the festival’s ongoing commitment to celebrating the confluence of diverse cultural narratives and artistic legacies.
    Malgorzata Wejsis-Gołębiak, Director of the Polish Institute, shared her enthusiasm for the event, stating: “We are honored to participate in this prestigious festival and to present Chitraanjali, a film that sheds light on the remarkable journey of Polish artist Stefan Norblin in India. His work, deeply embedded in the artistic heritage of Jodhpur, Morvi, and Ramgarh, is a testament to the enduring cultural ties between Poland and India. This screening is not just a tribute to Norblin’s legacy but also a celebration of the shared artistic and historical connections between our two nations.”
    Following the screening, a dynamic discussion took place featuring Malgorzata Wejsis-Gołębiak alongside Khan. The dialogue was further enriched by the participation of Sunil Laghate, Centre Director of the Mehrangarh Art Conservation Centre (MACC), and Rajat Jangid, conservator-restorer at Mehrangarh Art Conservation Centre, who contributed valuable insights on art conservation and cultural heritage.
    This special event at the festival not only celebrated the artistic endeavors of Stefan Norblin but also underscored the importance of preserving and promoting the cultural bonds that unite India and Poland. The festival continues to serve as a platform for fostering international dialogue, cross-cultural exchange, and creative collaboration in the world of cinema and the arts.
    Speaking about Poland’s participation, Somendra Harsh, Festival Director, Rajasthan International Film Festival said, “We are thrilled to have Poland as a participating country at the 2025 Rajasthan International Film Festival and to host Ms. Malgorzata Wejsis-Gołębiak, Director of the Polish Institute. Polish cinema has a rich legacy, with visionary filmmakers like Andrzej Wajda, Krzysztof Kieślowski, and Agnieszka Holland leaving an indelible mark on world cinema. We look forward to continuing this collaboration, fostering deeper cultural exchange through the power of storytelling.”
    At the closing ceremony, the Polish filmmaker Rafael Stemplewski was bestowed with the RIFF 2025 Award for ‘Excellence for Contribution to International Cinema’ by His Highness Maharaja Shri Gaj Singh II of Jodhpur. Malgorzata Wejsis-Gołębiak, Director, Polish Institute, was also recognized for her lifelong commitment towards boosting the cultural ties between India and Poland.

  • Anita Anand and Melanie Joly say they are not in the federal Liberal leadership race

    Anita Anand and Melanie Joly say they are not in the federal Liberal leadership race

    By Prabhjot Singh

    Transport Minister Anita Anand – have opted out of the federal Liberal leadership race, the election process of which was formally made public last week. Of the four senior women members of the Liberal caucus, only two—former Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister Chrystia Freeland and leader of the House Karina Gould—initially tipped as strong contenders are still considered in the running after both Anita Anand and Melanie Joly clarified that they are not in contention for the Prime Ministerial post. Another woman candidate in the running is the former Premier of British Columbia, Christie Clark. After Justin Trudeau announced his decision to step down as leader of the ruling Liberal Party, the Liberal Party has now set in motion the process to choose a replacement for him. The new leader would be named on March 9.

    Chandra Arya, MP from Nepean, was the first to declare his candidature for the top political post even before the details of the election process were made public.

    The new election procedure shows many changes from the process when the last election process to name the party leader was held in 2013. After a frenzy of formal and informal meetings last week, the Liberal Party’s national council decided to complete the process by March 9, ahead of March 24, the date on which the House of Commons, now prorogued, would resume its sitting.

    In the election programme announced, the party has increased the entry fee for potential candidates from $ 75,000 it had set in 2013 to $350,000 — a significant jump. Candidates will have to declare their intention to run and pay the entry fee by January 23. Party followers can register to vote in the leadership race until January 27.

    The party has also formalized the eligibility criteria for who can vote in the leadership contest. Canadian citizens and permanent residents, above the age of 14 shall be eligible to vote, contrary to the eligibility criteria for the general elections where the voting age is 18. In Canada, parties can set their age restrictions. The Conservatives allowed people 16 years or older to vote during their last leadership contest in 2022.

    Previously, non-Canadian residents were allowed to vote in Liberal Party riding nomination and leadership contests. This was called a “gateway” for foreign interference, an issue that dominated the proceedings of the current session that was adjourned for holiday break on January 18. A growing number of Liberal MPs have urged the party executives to heed those warnings.

    A number of cabinet insiders — including Innovation Minister François-Philippe Champagne, Natural Resources Minister Jonathan Wilkinson and Employment Minister Steven MacKinnon — have said they are considering running for the top job, but said they want to see the rules first.

    Former central banker Mark Carney has also said he is interested. Former finance minister Chrystia Freeland, former B.C. premier Christy Clark and House Leader Karina Gould are said to be gathering supporters, too.

    Besides Chandra Arya, a former Montreal MP, Frank Baylis, is also in the running.

    Whoever is chosen to take over for Trudeau, will have a tight timeline before the House of Commons returns. The possibility of the new Prime Minister running into a no-confidence motion immediately after the House resumes its sitting looks imminent as two of the main parties, including the official Opposition party, the Conservatives and the New Democrats, who had been bailing out the Trudeau government throughout, have declared the intent to bring down the government at the first possible opportunity.

  • MTA Announces Winter Weekend Discounts for LIRR and Metro-North Monthly Ticketholders

    MTA Announces Winter Weekend Discounts for LIRR and Metro-North Monthly Ticketholders

    • Monthly Ticket Holders’ Family and Friends Ride For $1
    • Discounts on Saturdays and Sundays
    • Discounts Start Saturday, Jan. 4

    NEW YORK CITY (TIP) : The Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) today announced the Long Island Rail Road (LIRR) and Metro-North Railroad “Winter Weekend” discount program. This program expands on the popular “Summer Saturday” discount program that enables monthly ticketholders to travel anywhere the railroads go and bring friends of family for just $1 each.

    Beginning on Saturday, Jan. 4, both railroads will honor all monthly tickets for travel to and from all stations within the LIRR or Metro-North territories regardless of which stations are printed on the ticket. Monthly ticket holders traveling on Saturdays and Sundays will be able to bring up to two additional travelers for only $1 per person each way. Promotional $1 tickets can be purchased via the Train Time app under Family Fares or on board without incurring an extra charge.

    The program begins as the Authority implements the Congestion Relief Zone on Sunday, Jan. 5, and is one of the many ways the MTA is encouraging customers to take public transit. On Tuesday, Dec. 17, Governor Hochul announced the MTA will enhance service on 24 bus routes across New York City. This follows systemwide service increases on 11 subway lines that took effect between July 2023 and July 2024.

    “Taking the train is the fastest and most convenient way to get to the city this winter and with record-levels of on-time performance and more service than ever before, you can count on the LIRR to get you where you need to go, said Long Island Rail Road President Rob Free. “Skip winter traffic and enjoy the trip at great prices.”

    “Monthly Metro-North riders know that the railroad is the most reliable, fastest and safest way to travel,” said Metro-North President Catherine Rinaldi. “Whether it’s a winter excursion upstate or a trip into the iconic Grand Central, we’ve made your experience even more affordable with steep discounts for family and friends.”

    In 2024, the LIRR achieved a higher year-to-date on-time performance of 95.7%, compared to the same time period in 2019, and recorded the best November in the railroad’s history with an on-time performance of 96.2%, all while running 40% more service. Metro-North continues to deliver on-time performance levels of 98% and is breaking weekend ridership records, surpassing pre-COVID ridership on multiple occasions this fall.

    There will be no cross-honoring of these discounted tickets between the railroads, meaning LIRR customers cannot use their monthly tickets to travel on Metro-North, and vice versa. The program is expected to run through the end of March.

  • Art: Ipsitaa, India’s first “triple threat” talent

    By Prabhjot Singh

    She is all rolled into one. A multi-talented artist, an academic scholar, a kathak dancer, a trained singer, an actress, and a coach make Ipsitaa, a globe-trotter Chandigarh girl, cynosure of all eyes. Her journey to stardom commenced with her debut song, ‘First Kiss,’ in collaboration with the celebrated artist Yo Yo Honey Singh. That sensational track amassed 238 million views on YouTube and received 34 million streams on Spotify.

    She belongs to rare category multi-talented artists, who also achieved academic excellence at institutions like London School of Economics, Yale, Princeton, Columbia, Cornell as well as Stanford. With her unique blend of talent, Ipsitaa is poised to become India’s first ‘triple threat’ talent, following in the footsteps of her idols in the West who have proven through their determination that girls, can indeed, do it all.

    Ipsitaa’s musical prowess continued to flourish with the release of four independent songs, each a testament to her talent and artistry. Notably, her single – ‘Solo Laila’ – garnered widespread acclaim for its empowering message to women, boasting 20 million views on YouTube and 1.4 million streams on Spotify. Next, she was seen in her soul-stirring Punjabi ballad, ‘Nikaah,’ which resonated deeply with women around the world.

    Her diverse portfolio also includes ‘Dilbara,’ and a captivating independent Christmas Album, ‘Songs of Christmas’ showcase her versatility. Born in Chandigarh and raised in various cities around North India (due to her parents’ background in civil service), Ipsitaa showed an early inclination towards singing, acting, and dancing. She began cultivating her skills in pop and opera singing at the age of 12. A testament to her prodigy is the distinction she achieved in the Grade 8 Voice Exam in the category of Vocals: Rock & Pop conducted by Trinity College, London, where she emerged as the topper in North India.

    Her early successes extended to her role as the youngest member of the international choir, the Capital City Minstrels, and a position as the lead singer and soloist in her school, where she garnered numerous awards at the inter-school, state, and national levels. She also attained a senior diploma in Kathak at the age of 14. Notably, the performing arts were not her only pursuit.

    Her academic brilliance afforded her acceptance offers from Ivy League colleges including Yale, Princeton, Columbia,
    and Cornell, as well as Stanford. She chose to pursue her dream of attending Yale, where she double majored in Economics and Psychology, while also participating in 14 productions, ranging from operas and musicals to postgraduate-level plays at the Yale School of Drama
    (for which she was selected via competitive auditions as one of the only undergraduate performers).

    She founded Yale’s first Indian Classical dance group and took the role of the lead Kathak dancer. Ipsitaa’s academic passion for Behavioural Economics led her to pursue higher education. She received an MSc in Behavioural Science from the London School of Economics, where her thesis titled ‘Does Engaging in Arts Improve Life Satisfaction?’ demonstrated her commitment to both academics and the arts. But it was only after her fortuitous discovery by Yo Yo Honey Singh’s team, through her covers and mashups online, that Ipsitaa realised her true calling in music.

    Ipsitaa’s artistic endeavours are not solely a reflection of her remarkable talent but also a manifestation of her commitment to addressing significant societal issues.

    Her body of work beautifully articulates the struggles and aspirations of women, exploring themes such as the sacrifices imposed by culture and religion, the importance of nurturing dreams without constraints, and the imperative nature of questioning societal expectations. Ipsitaa’s powerful voice serves as an instrument for change, and her passion for addressing women’s issues has garnered her a dedicated following. She aspires to blend her Western music training with her Indian heritage to craft songs that resonate deeply with the modern Indian woman.

    As she embarks on her journey as a professional artist, she envisions a future filled with music that empowers, inspires, and brings forth the voices of countless women who have remained voiceless in their aspirations and desires.

    “Kadar Na Jaane” was a new age pop song by Ipsitaa that speaks directly to girls, encouraging them to focus on themselves and their own well-being instead of investing in relationships with boys who fail to appreciate their worth. The lyrics vividly depict the common scenario of a girl being wooed by someone who may not have sincere intentions, highlighting the importance of recognising one’s value and not settling for less. The song paints a picture of a girl being pursued by someone who may not truly care for her. Despite the promises and declarations of
    love, the girl is urged to see through the facade and realise her own worth.

    The song also serves as a powerful anthem for self-love and empowerment. It encourages girls and women to prioritise honesty, self-respect, and integrity in relationships, and to walk away from those who do not value them. It is more than just a song; it’s a powerful reminder for girls to
    focus on themselves, embrace their worth, and not settle for anything less than genuine love and respect. It is a full out performance music video using colourful sets, new age, K-Pop inspired visuals and dance choreography. It is a video that no other Indian artist has done before to set a new benchmark for Indian pop music.

    (Prabhjot Singh, is a Toronto-based award-winning independent journalist, He was celebrated by AIPS, the international body of sports journalists, for covering ten Olympics at its centennial celebrations held at UNESCO Centre in Paris during the 2024 Olympic Games. Besides, he has written extensively about business and the financial markets, the health industry, the public and private sectors, and aviation. He has worked as a political reporter besides covering Sikh and Punjab politics. He is particularly interested in Indian Diaspora and Sikh Diaspora in particular. His work has also appeared in various international and national newspapers, magazines and journals)

  • IFFI Goa Yacht Pavilion is a game-changer for our producers and filmmakers: Yusuf Shaikh

    IFFI Goa Yacht Pavilion is a game-changer for our producers and filmmakers: Yusuf Shaikh

    By Murtaza Ali Khan

    The Indian Motion Picture Producers’ Association (IMPPA), the oldest and one of the most prestigious film bodies in India, is set to make waves at the 55th International Film Festival of India (IFFI), Goa. In a historic initiative led by IMPPA President Shri Abhay Sinha and his dedicated team, the association has secured a luxurious three-storey yacht as its exclusive pavilion for the event.
    This state-of-the-art floating venue, parked opposite the Marriott in Goa, offers a 200-seat LED-screen-equipped banquet space, a dedicated press conference area, trailer launch facilities, and even a party hall with a dance floor and swimming pool. The yacht will serve as a vibrant hub for celeb-studded events, press interactions, muhurats, masterclasses, and networking opportunities for the film fraternity.

    The IMPPA pavilion at the 55th IFFI will offer masterclasses by top industry experts, including the FIAPF head, on legal rights, IPR, copyright, and screenwriting. It will also serve as a platform for trailer launches, muhurats, and networking opportunities, fostering global collaborations and showcasing Indian cinema to international audiences.

    Speaking on this initiative, Yusuf Shaikh, Senior IMPPA representative and International Film Festival Committee head, remarked, “IFFI Goa Yacht Pavilion is a game-changer for our producers and filmmakers. It provides them a glamorous yet professional platform to present their work, engage with audiences, and connect with key players from around the world. We aim to empower our members by offering them innovative opportunities to grow and thrive in the global film industry.”

    IMPPA extends its gratitude to the NFDC, ESG, and IFFI for their invaluable support in making this ambitious vision a reality.Yusuf Shaikh is a veteran producer and distributor with over  years of experience in the Indian film industry, having worked on more than 100 films. He began his career with blockbuster hits like Mohra, Main Khiladi Tu Anari, and Suhaag before joining Percept Pictures as its head, where he distributed numerous National Award-winning films, including Page 3, Traffic Signal, Dor, Phir Milenge, and Kanchivaram.

    IFFI Goa Yacht Pavilion poster.

    As an adviser to studios like Drishyam Films, Yusuf has marketed and distributed acclaimed films such as Newton (India’s 2017 Oscars entry), Kadvi Hawa, Halka, and Hotel Salvation (Mukti Bhawan). He also collaborated on projects by Ram Gopal Varma and Bharat Shah Films. As a writer, he penned the story for Nagesh Kukunoor’s Dhanak, which won the National Award for Best Children’s Film.

    Yusuf is an active member of key industry bodies, including the Indian Motion Pictures Producers Association (IMPPA) and the Film Federation of India (FFI), the apex organization of Indian film producers.

    (Murtaza Ali Khan is an award-winning film critic who has served on the jury of the 69th and the 70th National Awards. He has been covering cinema, arts, and culture for the last decade and a half. He can be reached at murtaza.jmi@gmail.com)

  • Renowned Bollywood Journalist Geeta Sharma Ventures into Mexico’s Destination Wedding Market

    Renowned Bollywood Journalist Geeta Sharma Ventures into Mexico’s Destination Wedding Market

    LOS CABOS, MEXICO (TIP): Noted Bollywood journalist Geeta Sharma, known for her extensive experience in entertainment journalism, is making a significant move into the booming destination wedding industry in Mexico. Having started her career with Zee News in 2000, Geeta’s journey has been marked by international travel, yoga instruction, and volunteer work with prominent figures like Sadhvi Ritambhara and Sri Sri Ravi Shankar ji. Now, she is poised to bring her unique expertise to the vibrant and culturally rich setting of Mexican weddings.

    After returning to India in 2011 and resuming her role at Zee News, Geeta has continued to make waves in the entertainment industry. However, her latest venture represents a bold shift in focus. Geeta has identified Mexico as a prime location for Indian destination weddings, particularly in stunning locales like Los Cabos and Cancun, which boast crystal-clear blue waters and white sandy beaches.

    “Indian weddings in Mexico are an untapped market with immense potential,” Geeta Sharma observes. “While the trend of destination weddings in Mexico has been ongoing, there is a significant opportunity to cater specifically to Indian-origin couples, including North Indian, Sikh, Gujarati, and South Indian communities.”

    Geeta has noted that Indian weddings in Mexico are often organized by Spanish-speaking coordinators, but she sees a unique niche in offering services that are tailored to the cultural and emotional needs of Indian couples. She emphasizes the similarities between Indian and Mexican cultures, particularly in their shared values of family, emotional connections, and the belief in living for the moment.

    Geeta’s move is greatly bolstered by her collaboration with Pradeep Agarwal, a cultural mogul who has spent the last 27 years tirelessly promoting Indian art and lifestyle in Mexico. From Indian art and artists to Ayurveda, Indian food, spices, and technology, Agarwal’s influence has been profound.

    “You can take a man out of India but you cannot take India out of a man. Regardless of wherever I live, I have always taken great pride in promoting Indian culture,” rejoices Agarwal. “The country’s cultural similarities with India, such as a deep respect for family values and emotional connections, make it an ideal location.”

    Geeta’s entry into the wedding industry follows her time in Mexico between 2008 and 2009, where she witnessed the rise of Indian weddings in the region. With her strong grasp of Indian culture and global entertainment, she is set to make a significant impact by offering unique wedding experiences that merge the best of both worlds. As more Indian couples seek picturesque locations for their big day, her entry into the Mexico destination wedding market is perfectly timed.

  • Indian-origin techie drowns in Glacier National Park

    Indian-origin techie drowns in Glacier National Park

    WASHINGTON D. C. (TIP): Indian techie Siddhant Vitthal Patil, who is presumed dead after drowning in the Glacier National Park in the United States, had texted his mother from the park hours before the tragedy, his family said on Friday, July 12.
    “Last Friday, Siddhant called up his mother Priti from the Park and told her that he had been in the Park for three days with six other Indian friends and is enjoying the trip,” his maternal uncle Pritesh Chaudhari told media.
    Chaudhari, who is based in Pune, said Siddhant (26) also texted his mother two hours before the tragic incident, telling her that he would be returning to San Jose, where he worked with Cadence Design Systems, in another three days.
    His friends got his iPhone IMEI numbers from the phone box in his room and gave it to the Park rangers in Montana and other authorities to help in the search work, Chaudhari said. This hasn’t yielded results yet, he added.
    Both Priti and Siddhant’s father Vitthal, who retired from Maharashtra government’s irrigation department in May, are in shock and not in a position to speak, Chaudhari said.
    “Suresh Sharma from the Indian consulate in Seattle called me after the incident as he had given my number as a contact to the US authorities,” Chaudhari said.
    “I have been in touch with the consulate since Monday,” he said.
    Leaders from Maharashtra, including Sharad Pawar and Devendra Fadnavis, have written to the government seeking its help, he said. Union minister Murlidhar Mohol, who hails from Pune, is in touch with External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar for updates on the search operation, he added.
    “Siddhant went to the US in 2020 to do his MS from the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA). He joined Cadence in 2023,” Chaudhari said.
    Siddhant’s body is yet to be located despite helicopters conducting aerial searches, but officials suspected that the body was being held down by submerged obstacles like fallen trees and rocks. He is presumed dead by authorities.
    Rangers are continuously monitoring the area and are starting to recover personal items that have washed downstream. Rangers flew a drone to try and determine the location of the body, but the effort was unsuccessful.
    (Source: PTI)

  • Couple in Brazil Planted More Than 2M Trees in 20 Years To Recreate Forest

    Couple in Brazil Planted More Than 2M Trees in 20 Years To Recreate Forest

    In 1998, photographer Sebastião Salgado and his wife Lélia embarked on a remarkable journey to revive the ecosystem in a part of Brazil.

    By Nikki Dobrin

    In 1998, award-winning photographer and photojournalist Sebastião Salgado and his wife, Lélia Deluiz Wanick Salgado, founded Instituto Terra, a federally recognized nature preserve and nonprofit organization, thus embarking on a remarkable journey to revive the ecosystem.

    The roots of this endeavor trace back to the mid-1990, shortly after Salgado’s return from a photo assignment covering the genocide in Rwanda, and the couple’s acquisition of the cattle ranch reportedly purchased by Sebastião Salgado’s father in the 1940s.

    “The land was as sick as I was – everything was destroyed,” Salgado said at a Paris climate change meeting in 2015, according to The Guardian. “Only about 0.5% of the land was covered in trees. Then my wife had a fabulous idea to replant this forest. And when we began to do that, then all the insects and birds and fish returned and, thanks to this increase of the trees I, too, was reborn – this was the most important moment.”

    According to Smithsonian Magazine, replanting the farm with trees was Lélia’s idea. “There was no hidden agenda,” she told the outlet in 2015. “It was so natural, instinctive. The land was so degraded, so horrible. What a bad gift! Why not plant?”

    Over two decades, the Salgados transformed barren landscapes into thriving forests by planting millions of seedlings, starting with an initial donation of 100,000 seedlings from a local mining company. This monumental effort aimed not only to restore the ecosystem but also to produce plants and trees that would be a natural habitat for native fauna including birds and insects.

    The former farmland is now known as Instituto Terra, serving as a hub for environmental education, seedling cultivation and ecological research. Located in the state of Minas Gerais, Brazil, this 1,750-acre expanse sits about 100 miles inland from the Atlantic coast, nestled within the valley of the Rio Doce. The biodiverse Atlantic Forest was integral to the Rio Doce Valley’s ecosystem, covering both the family cattle farm and surrounding areas.

    The transformative impact of the Salgados’ efforts is documented in various sources. Earth Observatory, a NASA initiative dedicated to sharing images and stories about the environment, Earth systems and climate research, highlighted the couple’s role in reforesting and the restoration of degraded ecosystems.

    Numerous sources corroborate the remarkable achievements of the couple, with their story garnering attention from media outlets worldwide, including the Daily Mail and DeMilked, which chronicled the couple’s two-decade journey to transform the barren ranch into a thriving habitat for wildlife and biodiversity conservation.

    Visual evidence of the couple’s achievements can be found in a YouTube video showcasing the lush greenery that now blankets the once-devastated landscapes, showcasing the couple’s transformative impact on the landscape.

    The pioneering efforts of the Salgados’ initiative in reclaiming lost forests and combating deforestation not only contribute to environmental conservation but also serve as a source of inspiration for individuals and organizations worldwide to take action. Snopes has previously reported on environmental issues in Brazil, including a Swedish multimillionaire purchasing around 400,000 acres of Amazonian rainforest, and claims that a logger cut down the world’s oldest tree.

    (Nikki Dobrin is a Los Angeles-based reporter/editor of Kiwi descent from Sydney, Australia. She has written and edited for People, USA Today, The Hill, and many other outlets in the U.S., United Kingdom and Australia. Prior to joining Snopes, Nikki worked for The Walt Disney Company in unscripted, live and alternative content, partnering on such shows and features as the “Academy Awards,” “The Kardashians,” the “American Music Awards,” “Choir” and “Drag Me to Dinner.” Nikki loves animals, working out, attending metal shows, and has figuratively itchy feet, so in her spare time she loves collecting passport stamps and frequent flier points)

  • 3 Indian nationals among crew detained on Singapore-flagged ship carrying drugs to Brisbane

    3 Indian nationals among crew detained on Singapore-flagged ship carrying drugs to Brisbane

    Acting on a tip-off, the Indonesian authorities intercepted the cargo vessel in the Pongkar waters of the Karimun district

    SINGAPORE (TIP): Three Indian nationals are among the crew who have been detained by Indonesian authorities on a Singapore-flagged ship for carrying drugs to Brisbane, according to a media report.

    Acting on a tip-off, the Indonesian authorities intercepted the cargo vessel, called Legend Aquarius, in the Pongkar waters of the Karimun district, about one hour from Singapore by ferry. It was manned by 10 Indonesian crew members, including the captain. Three Singapore Permanent Residents of Indian nationalities were also on board. They are allegedly the owners of the drugs and had commissioned the trip, police commissioner-general Marthinus Hukom, head of the Indonesian National Narcotic Agency (BNN), told reporters at a press conference in Batam.

    The Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore said that on Wednesday, it was alerted to the detention of a Singapore-flagged vessel, Legend Aquarius, by the Indonesian authorities, according to the Singapore Daily.

    “MPA is in contact with the vessel owner to ascertain the facts and has advised the company to cooperate with the Indonesian authorities on the investigations,” the broadsheet quoted MPA as saying.

    At the press conference, Inspector-General Wayan Sugiri, BNN deputy for eradication, said the vessel left Singapore on July 9 for a private port in Johor Bahru.

    While at the private port on July 12, the three Indian-origin Singapore PRs – whose initials police disclosed as RM, SD and GV – loaded the illicit drugs onto the vessel and placed them in the engine room.

    The boat captain and nine crew members had earlier been told to leave the vessel and have a break on shore.

    The three PRs have lived in Singapore for periods of between six and eight years, and each of them has academic credentials in vessel engineering, said the authorities.

    “Based on our interrogations of the three foreigners, they had planned to head to Surabaya, Dili, Papua, then Brisbane, Australia. But we will double-check this, in case they didn’t state the truth,” the Singapore newspaper quoted Inspector-General Wayan.

    He also said the authorities had received a tip-off about the illegal shipment from members of the public whom he declined to identify. He added that the vessel crew were not implicated in the crime.

    The maximum penalty for a conviction over charges related to the trading of illegal drugs is a death sentence, according to the 2009 anti-narcotics law.

    The crackdown on trafficking by Indonesia comes amid soaring consumption of illicit narcotics in the region.

    On February 23, BNN and the Central Narcotics Bureau of Singapore agreed to form a strategic partnership to fight illicit drugs in Southeast Asia, as there had been a rise in such crimes as well as an increasing complexity in curbing them. BNN head Marthinus said that Indonesia will work with its Singapore counterparts to exchange information and data, as well as collaborate on enforcement and joint operations, Indonesian state news agency Antara reported on February 23.
    (Source: PTI)

  • Atlanta Council Honors Indian American Leader Dr Nazeera Dawood for Women’s History Month

    Atlanta Council Honors Indian American Leader Dr Nazeera Dawood for Women’s History Month

    ATLANTA, GA (TIP): The Atlanta City Council has bestowed a prestigious honor upon Dr Nazeera Dawood, the esteemed founder and CEO of Vendorship, Inc., recognizing her exceptional contributions and service to the Greater Atlanta community. This recognition comes as a significant highlight during Women’s History Month, celebrating the achievements and resilience of women across the globe. A special ceremony, held on March 7th, saw the Atlanta City Council officially declare March 7th as Dr. Nazeera Dawood Day, followed by a reception at Atlanta City Hall to commemorate Dr Dawood’s remarkable accomplishments.

    Andrea L. Boone, Member of the Atlanta City Council, expressed, “Dr Nazeera Dawood encapsulates the spirit of Women’s History Month with her unwavering commitment to public health and economic empowerment. Her path from earning a medical degree to establishing Vendorship showcases her vision and resilience. Dr Nazeera’s leadership not only uplifts women and minority-owned businesses but also cultivates a spirit of community and collaboration across Atlanta.”

    Viren Mayani, recognized as a global thought leader, extended his greetings during the ceremony. Darryl Ricardo Matthews Sr., Director of Business Development at Vendorship, introduced the honoree, followed by the Proclamation Presentation by Councilmember Andrea L Boone. Additional speakers at the event included Monidipa Das, Madhu Pareek, Veni Nanjundiah, and Richard Johnson. Burleigh Singleton delivered the closing remarks.

    Expressing her gratitude, Dr Nazeera remarked, “As we strive to make diversity and inclusion less of an ideal and more of a common practice, companies like Vendorship can serve as an example of how to bring equitable access and opportunities to all businesses.”

    Dr Nazeera hails from Dindigul, Tamil Nadu. Her professional journey is marked by two decades of unwavering dedication and service across various sectors, encompassing impactful roles in both public and private domains, including significant contributions to non-profit organizations. Originating from a successful medical career in India, she expanded her expertise by earning a Master’s Degree in Public Health from the University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill.

    During her tenure as a research project manager at Emory University, Dr Nazeera Dawood was honored as a ‘We are Emory, 100 Community Builders.’ Additionally, she served as an adjunct professor at Morehouse School of Medicine and assumed the role of President for the South Asian Public Health Association (SAPHA). A graduate of Leadership Johns Creek and the Johns Creek Community Police Academy, she has continually demonstrated her commitment to community engagement and leadership.

    Recognized for her outstanding public service, Dr Nazeera Dawood has received accolades from the American Tamil Medical Association and has actively contributed to the community as a monthly columnist for the Forsyth County News. Fluent in multiple languages including Tamil, Hindi, Kannada, and Telugu, she has leveraged her linguistic skills to foster inclusivity and engagement within diverse communities.

    Dr Nazeera Dawood’s advocacy for diversity and inclusion was further highlighted when the Georgia House of Representatives adopted House Resolution 591 designating January 19, 2022, as Dr Nazeera Dawood Reaffirmation of Diversity in Patriotism Day. This commendation, sponsored by State Rep. Angelika Kausche and cosponsored by State Reps. Todd Jones and Josh McLaurin, underscored her commitment to promoting unity and inclusiveness.

    Previously, Dr Nazeera Dawood was honored with a proclamation from Fulton County, recognizing October 1 as Dr. Nazeera Dawood Appreciation Day, further emphasizing her profound impact on the local community.

    Drawing upon her extensive experience in public service, including roles such as Director of the Fulton County Health Department Division of Health Promotion and Chief of Staff of the Chairman’s Office of Board of Commissioners, Dr Nazeera Dawood gained invaluable insights into the intricacies of government procurement processes. This wealth of experience laid the foundation for the establishment of Vendorship, a pioneering endeavor aimed at revolutionizing government contracting and fostering equitable opportunities for businesses.

    Established in 2018 and headquartered in Alpharetta, Georgia, USA, Vendorship Inc is at the forefront of transforming government contracting. By providing inclusive access to revenue-generating contracts, the company aids businesses in securing a share of the $3 trillion available in local, state, and federal contracts. Vendorship simplifies the proposal process, guiding clients through complexities and matching them with optimal bid requests for consistently successful submissions. Additionally, through coaching and interaction, Vendorship empowers clients to present new technologies to government agencies seeking innovative solutions.

    Expanding its reach, Vendorship India was founded in January 2024 with its office location in Bengaluru, and is currently in the phase of growth within the Indian market.

    For more information, please visit Vendorship’s website at vendorship.net, contact them via email at info@vendorship.net or connect with them on social media platforms including Facebook, LinkedIn or by phone at (404) 982-4070.

    (India PR Distribution)

  • Indian American businessman Narender Reddy announces run for State House District 50

    Indian American businessman Narender Reddy announces run for State House District 50

    ATLANTA, GA (TIP) : Johns Creek businessman Narender Reddy has qualified to run for the Georgia House of Representatives in District 50, which covers most of Johns Creek and a portion of Alpharetta.  Since no other Republican qualified for this seat, Reddy will not be having any Primary opponent. The seat is currently occupied by Democrat Michelle Au. “It is important that we hold our elected officials accountable, which is why I have chosen to challenge Representative Au,” Reddy remarked. “Her record shows that she does not reflect the views of the voters of this district, and I intend to give voters an alternative who better understands the pressing issues facing our district, our state, and our country.”
    Citing out-of-control inflation as a major concern to voters, Reddy promised to endorse fiscally responsible measures that would give relief to taxpayers.
    “Prices have skyrocketed on basic necessities and our working families are struggling,” Reddy said. “We need to help people to keep more of their money to combat this crisis. That means cutting our state income tax, tamping down rising property taxes, and reducing wasteful government spending.”
    Reddy also noted rising illegal immigration as an issue that voters have demanded answers on.
    “As an immigrant myself, I applaud people for legally immigrating to this country in search of better opportunity,” Reddy said. “However, the current situation with people entering illegally at the southern border is unsustainable. It’s highly unsafe to allow thousands of unvetted, untracked migrants to enter our country. My pledge is to work in the State House to find ways to insulate Georgia from the federal government’s inaction and to continually call for more to be done to alleviate this problem.”
    On that note, Reddy emphasized the need for robust public safety in District 50.
    “We need to do what is necessary to ensure that this area remains a safe place for our families,” Reddy said. “As your State Representative, I will be a reliable friend to law enforcement and will fight for them to have the resources and support they need to keep our communities safe.”
    A Georgia resident for nearly four decades, Narender Reddy has been an invested member of the Johns Creek community. He was appointed to board of the Georgia Regional Transportation Authority by Governor Sonny Perdue and reappointed to two additional terms by Governor Nathan Deal and Governor Brian Kemp and has been serving on the Board for the past 20 years.
    Also, he was the co-founder of the Quantum National Bank, the first Indian American owned bank.  Reddy is the founder and president of Sterling Realty Services, a commercial real estate firm. He holds a master’s degree in business from the University of Evansville in Indiana. Narender is the proud father of two adult children.

  • Mahua Moitra Expelled From Parliament Over Cash-For-Query Row

    Mahua Moitra Expelled From Parliament Over Cash-For-Query Row

    • Mamata Banerjee accused the BJP of having “planned” the expulsion of Ms Moitra

    NEW DELHI (TIP): Trinamool Congress leader Mahua Moitra has been expelled from the Lok Sabha following an Ethics Committee report into the ‘cash for query’ charges against her. Ms Moitra, 49, was accused of taking bribes, including ₹ 2 crore in cash and “luxury gift items”, from businessman Darshan Hiranandani, in exchange for asking questions critical of the Narendra Modi government in Parliament.
    Ms Moitra was also accused of surrendering log-in credentials to a confidential account on the parliamentary website so Mr Hiranandani could post questions directly. A fiery critic of the Modi government, Ms Moitra had denied the bribery charges but admitted to sharing the log-in details. After a tempestuous discussion and voice vote, Mr Birla said, “This House accepts the conclusions of the Committee – that MP Mahua Moitra’s conduct was immoral and indecent. So, it is not appropriate for her to continue as an MP…”

    Hours earlier the Ethics Committee presented its report – a nearly 500-page tome – in the House, triggering a furious row between the ruling BJP and the opposition, including Ms Moitra’s party.

    In the brief discussion that followed, apoplectic opposition MPs from the Congress and Trinamool demanded more time to study the material, and fought for Ms Moitra to be allowed to speak.

    However, Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla refused permission, citing the 2005 expulsion of 10 MPs, including six from the BJP, who were caught in a similar controversy. Then Speaker, Somnath Chatterjee, said the MPs had lost the right to speak in the House after the report was tabled.

    The report against Ms Moitra noted “allegations of accepting illegal gratification (are) clearly established and are undeniable”, and that “taking gifts from (a) businessman to whom she handed over log-in (details) amounts to a quid pro quo… unbecoming of an MP and is unethical conduct”.

    On the point Ms Moitra accepted cash as part of the bribes, the report called for the government to “criminally investigate and unearth the ‘money trail’”, for which it said it “does not have expertise”.

    The Ethics Committee’s final recommendation was that “…Smt Mahua Moitra, MP, may be expelled from the membership of the Seventeenth Lok Sabha”. It also called for “a legal institutional inquiry by the Government… in view of unethical, heinous, and criminal conduct of Smt Mahua Moitra…”

    This morning, as she walked into Parliament, a typically fierce Ms Moitra paused only to tell reporters, “Maa Durga aa gayi hai, ab dekhenge…Jab naash manuj par chhata hai, pehle vivek mar jaata hai (Maa Durga has come! Now we will see.. when destruction comes, conscience dies first).”

    Trinamool boss and Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee accused the BJP of having “planned” the expulsion of Ms Moitra – who is one of the ruling party’s fiercest and most vocal critics. “… but this will help her before the election,” Ms Banerjee said. The 2024 Lok Sabha election is just months away.

  • Mom to daughter rules

    Mom to daughter rules

    By Rishi Singh

    RULES TO TEACH YOUR DAUGHTER

    1. Make your bed every day, even if it’s right before you get in it.

    2. Don’t wear holey underwear…in case you’re in an accident and they cut your clothes off.

    3. Travel light through life. Keep only what you need.

    4. It’s okay to cry when you’re hurt. It’s also okay to smash (some) things; but, wash your face, clean your mess, and get up off the floor when you’re done. You don’t belong down there.

    5. If you’re going to curse, be clever. If you’re going to curse in public, know your audience.

    6. Seek out the people and places that resonate with your soul.

    7. Just because you can, doesn’t mean you should.

    8. 5-second rule. Only if it’s just dirt. There are worse things in a fast-food cheeseburger.

    9. Happiness is not a permanent state. Wholeness is. Don’t confuse these.

    10. If you’re staying more than one night, unpack your bag.

    11. Never walk through an alley alone.

    12. Be less sugar, more spice, and only as nice as you’re able to without compromising yourself.

    13. Can’t is a cop-out.

    14. Hold your heroes to a high standard. Be your own hero.

    15. If you can’t smile with your eyes, don’t smile. Insincerity is nothing to aspire to.

    16. Never lie to yourself.

    17. Your body, your rules.

    18. If you have an opinion, you better know why.

    19. Practice your passions.

    20. Ask for what you want. The worst thing they can say is ‘no’ badly.

    21. Wish on stars and dandelions, then get to work to make them happen.

    22. Stay as sweet as you are.

    23. Fall in love often. Particularly with ideas, art, music, literature, food and far-off places.

    24. Fall hard and forever in love with nothing but yourself.

    25. Say Please, Thank You, and Pardon Me, whenever the situation warrants it.

    26. Reserve “I’m sorry” for when you truly are.

    27. Naps are for grown-ups, too.

    28. Question everything, except your own intuition.

    29. You have enough. You are enough.

    30. You are amazing! Don’t let anyone ever make you feel you are not. If someone does….walk away. You deserve better.

    31. No matter where you are, you can always come home.

    32. Be happy and remember your roots, family is EVERYTHING.

    33. Say what you mean and mean what you say.

    34. No one will ever love you more than I do. That’s what good moms do.

    35. Be kind; treat others how you would like them to treat you.

    36. If in doubt, remember whose daughter you are and straighten your crown👑

    (Rishi Singh is a retired Air India official)

  • Supply Chain Resilience: Lessons Learned from the Post-Pandemic Era

    By Mandeep Singh

    The COVID-19 pandemic brought unprecedented challenges to global supply chains and logistics operations. However, amidst the chaos, there were valuable lessons learned that have reshaped the industry’s approach to resilience and adaptability. This article presents a case study on Mandeep, a supply chain and logistics Director, examines how Mandeep effectively managed the post-pandemic landscape by incorporating key lessons learned.

    Lesson 1: Agility and Flexibility

    Mandeep recognized the importance of agility and flexibility in navigating disruptions caused by the pandemic. By diversifying sourcing options to India and USA and establishing relationships with multiple suppliers, Mandeep ensured a steady flow of critical goods. This allowed for quick adjustments in production and minimized the impact of supply chain disruptions. He also proactively modified transportation routes and utilized alternative modes of transport to avoid bottlenecks and ensure timely deliveries.

    Lesson 2: Enhanced Visibility and Collaboration

    Understanding the significance of supply chain visibility, Mandeep leveraged advanced technologies to enhance transparency. By implementing real-time tracking systems and data analytics tools, Mandeep gained comprehensive visibility into inventory levels, shipping statuses, and potential bottlenecks. This enabled informed decision-making and proactive response to disruptions. Additionally, Mandeep fostered collaborative relationships with suppliers, customers, and logistics partners, sharing critical information and jointly planning strategies to mitigate risks.

    Lesson 3: Resilient Inventory Management

    Mandeep recognized the vulnerability of just-in-time inventory management systems exposed during the pandemic. To address this, Mandeep implemented resilient inventory management practices. By maintaining buffer stocks and safety reserves, Mandeep ensured a sufficient supply of essential items even during unexpected disruptions. Mandeep also employed data-driven demand forecasting techniques to optimize inventory levels, preventing stockouts and minimizing excess inventory.

    Lesson 4: Embracing Technology and Automation

    To cope with the challenges posed by the pandemic, Mandeep embraced technology and automation. Mandeep leveraged advanced systems predictive analytics, advanced reorder points system and demand planning strategies. By automating manual tasks and optimizing operations, Mandeep reduced reliance on human labor and enhanced efficiency. Furthermore, digital platforms and cloud-based solutions were implemented to streamline communication, facilitate remote collaboration, and ensure seamless information flow across the supply chain.

    Lesson 5: Risk Management and Business Continuity:

    The pandemic underscored the importance of robust risk management strategies and business continuity plans. Companies are now investing in comprehensive risk assessments and scenario planning to identify potential vulnerabilities and develop proactive mitigation strategies. The same way Mandeep implemented these strategies and worked on alternative sourcing options, redundant transportation routes, and disaster recovery protocols. By proactively addressing risks and establishing resilient supply chain networks, businesses can better withstand future disruptions.

    To sum up, the post-pandemic era has necessitated a reevaluation of supply chain and logistics strategies. By embracing agility, enhancing visibility, fostering collaboration, implementing resilient inventory management, leveraging technology, and prioritizing risk management, the writer  successfully navigated the challenging post-pandemic landscape. These lessons can serve as a blueprint for supply chain and logistics professionals seeking to build resilient, adaptable, and efficient operations in the face of future disruptions.

  • Meet the Visionary Social Activist and Real Estate Entrepreneur Nidarshana Gowani

    Meet the Visionary Social Activist and Real Estate Entrepreneur Nidarshana Gowani

    The Kamala Ankibai Ghamandiram Gowani Trust, founded in 1969, is a beacon of hope for social causes under the visionary leadership of Nidarshana Gowani, the Managing Director of Kamala Group of Industries and Trustee of the organization. The Trust is devoted to a myriad of noble causes, including promoting diversity, inclusion, education, and healthcare. Over the years, the Trust has become a symbol of excellence in taking up unique initiatives that have transformed lives.

    One of the most remarkable initiatives of the Trust is the establishment of Green Plant Energy Pvt Ltd. in Punjab, which aims to make the region a hub for biomass and agro waste by focusing on decentralized energy production. The result is the creation of modular biomass power plants that generate zero waste, with all the heat generated from biogas engines used to power a VAM cold storage, aiding in the processing and preservation of food. Such initiatives are critical in today’s world as we strive towards achieving a net-zero and combatting climate change.

    Nidarshana Gowani is a true champion of diversity and inclusion, with initiatives focused on promoting gender equality and creating awareness through humanity walks. Her efforts to welcome transgender individuals have made them feel included and appreciated. The Trust’s events for the fire and acid attack survivors have brought tears of joy to many, and her efforts have been widely recognized by various print and digital publications.

    During the pandemic, the Trust worked tirelessly for the welfare of migrant workers, frontline warriors, and others struggling for food and shelter. The Trust distributed groceries, masks, and sanitizers when there was a shortage. In addition, the Trust organized helmet distribution drives for police officers and food distribution drives to thank public servants for their service.

    The Trust’s significant contributions to education and healthcare are also worth mentioning. Nidarshana Gowani’s belief in education for all has led to the establishment of schools, colleges, temples, and dharamshalas, ensuring that everyone has access to education and religious ease. Health camps organized by the Trust have saved countless lives and ensured that people do not lose precious years due to negligence or the unavailability of adequate facilities.

    The Trust also recognizes and supports women achievers and young talents through Kamala Power Women Awards and Kamala Rising Star Awards, respectively. These initiatives offer much-needed aid and recognition to individuals from small towns and villages, shattering societal barriers and making a positive impact on the world. Other felicitation initiatives are also ideated and executed on a regular basis.

    Kamala Ankibai Ghamandiram Gowani Trust has evolved as a powerful force for transforming lives and communities through its unique and impactful initiatives.

  • Indian-origin wins big in Korean survival drama Squid Game at Singapore company dinner-dance

    Indian-origin wins big in Korean survival drama Squid Game at Singapore company dinner-dance

    SINGAPORE (TIP): An Indian-origin has won SGD18,888 in cash at the company’s dinner-and-dance event in the hit South Korean survival drama Squid Game, where players compete to win life-altering rewards, but minus the deadly stakes. The prize money is equivalent to one and half years’ worth of his salary at the heavy vehicle leasing firm Pollisum Engineering which hosted the event last Saturday, reported by media.
    Selvam Arumugam, 42, had not heard of the show before.
    Selvam works as a rigger and signalman, inspecting and maintaining crane and lifting equipment to ensure the safety of lifting operations at construction sites for Pollisum Engineering which gave out a total of SGD100,000 in prize money during the event.
    Selvam, who studied up to Secondary 1 in India and joined the company in 2015, supports 15 family members back home. His parents and two brothers have died, leaving behind their wives and a total of seven children. He also provides for his in-laws.
    Selvam said he will use the prize money to build a family home in India – the family currently lives in a rental flat – and help his brothers’ children pay for their studies.
    “When I found out that I had won, I couldn’t believe it… I called my entire family to tell them about this good news,” he said in Tamil.
    “My wife thought it was a joke at first until (my friend) spoke to her. All of them were celebrating and crying at the same time. This will be a moment that we will never forget for our entire lives,” Selvam added.
    In the Netflix series, hundreds of cash-strapped contestants compete in children’s games for a huge cash prize while risking their lives in the process.
    Players at the dinner and dance sported red tracksuit jackets with number tags, while game masters wore red hooded jumpsuits, like characters in the drama series.
    A giant inflatable ball filled with money hung from the ceiling in full view of the players, similar to the show’s piggy bank.
    Despite not understanding the rules of the games, he tried his best, said Selvam, who has a wife and three teenage children. He first came to Singapore to work in 2007 from Tamil Nadu.
    He copied what players in front of him were doing and ran as fast as he could during the Red Light, Green Light game and managed to escape elimination.
    In a TikTok video of the event, Selvam is seen falling to his knees and covering his face with his hands in disbelief when he learnt he had won the top prize. He won SGD18,888 (more than Rs 11.5 lakh) in cash.
    The company’s annual dinner and dance was attended by 210 employees, including mechanics, drivers and sales staff.
    Executive director Chris Ang said the company wanted to reward its workers as it has been doing well and expanding in the past two years.