Entertainment

Confident that comfort of friendship, strength of India-France partnership will illuminate path forward: President Murmu

Published

9 months ago

January 27, 2024

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New Delhi [India], January 26 (ANI): President Droupadi Murmu expressed confidence that the comfort of friendship and strength of partnership between India and France will illuminate the path forward.

President Murmu made the remarks as she hosted a banquet in honour of the French President Emmanuel Macron at Rashtrapati Bhavan. Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Chief Justice of India DY Chandrachud and other dignitaries were present.

In her address, President Murmu said India and France are on a shared journey to the future and added that the two nations are building a future that matters to the people of both nations, especially the youth. She said that the two nations are building a “strong and successful France” and a “secure and developed India.”President Murmu said, “From handicrafts and space, India and France are on a shared journey to the future. Together we are building a future that matters to our people, especially our youth. A future of hope, of equal opportunities, of quality education, of research and innovation, and of a clean environment, we are building a strong and successful France, a secure and developed India, and a world at peace”.

“President Macron, along with our Prime Minister, you have outlined an ambitious vision of our partnership for India’s Amrit Kaal 2047. Your presence with us today has strengthened our resolve to realize this vision. Today we stand together before the world two great nations, each with a distinct contribution to human progress, independent in our thought, responsible in our actions and sensitive to the needs of the world. I am confident that the comfort of our friendship and the strength of our partnership will illuminate the path forward,” she added.

She noted that both nations have influenced each other with specialities. She called the French language a “popular choice” for students in India. She recalled her visit to Puducherry in August and spoke about the union territory’s unique confluence of diverse cultural streams. Calling Puducherry a “living bridge” between India and France, President Murmu noted that the architecture and lifestyle of people in the union territory showcase French influence.

President Murmu said, “In matters of food and drink too, we have influenced each other with our specialities. Just as there are impressive scholars of ancient Indian languages and Vedic studies in France, the French language is a popular choice for students in India. If we look towards cinema, we again find ourselves connected, be it the influence of the French New Wave on our most eminent directors or the increasing presence of Indian films and film stars on the Cannes Red Carpet.””Last year in August, I had the opportunity to visit Puducherry, where I witnessed a unique confluence of diverse cultural streams. The architecture, festivals and lifestyle of the people of Puducherry are part of a vibrant heritage which also reflects the French influence. The people also have a close linkage to the Indian diaspora community of France. While I was there, I felt that indeed, Puducherry is a living bridge between France and India,” she added.

Highlighting the ties between India and France, President Murmu said, “This is a historic and memorable moment in many ways. It would rarely have happened that the leaders of two countries have been the guests of honours in each other’s successive national day parade and celebrations. There can be no better symbol of the depth of our friendship and the strength of our partnership than 14 July 2023 and 26 January.”She said the two nations have enriched each other through philosophy, literature, art, scriptures, languages, jewellery and textile art. She called Paris a “beloved destination” for Indian tourists.

She stated, “If our troops marching on Champs-Elysees and Kartvaya Path are symbols of our solidarity, the International Day of Yoga at Eiffel Tower or a Dior Fashion show at Gateway of India equally reflect our deep connections. Paris is a beloved destination for Indian tourists. France, in turn, is among the top contributors to tourism earnings in India from abroad. Last year, four major Paris museums hosted Indian exhibitions.”Speaking about the importance of India’s Republic Day, She said, “Today is the 75th Republic Day of India. On this very day, India got into force the longest-written constitution of the world, just over two years after gaining independence, making India a Republic. For us Indians, this was not a new system of governance as we had known this concept since millennia ago.”She stressed that the Constitution has shaped India’s journey as an independent nation. She stressed that the Constitution has been a guiding beacon of India’s social and economic progress.

“This constitution has shaped our journey as an independent nation. It has united the world’s largest and most diverse societies. It has knitted together the world’s largest democracy and most diverse society. It has been a guiding beacon of our social and economic progress. Liberty, equality, fraternity, justice are at its very foundation.

In a post on X, Rashtrapati Bhavan stated, “President Droupadi Murmu hosted a banquet in honour of His Excellency Mr Emmanuel Macron, President of the French Republic at Rashtrapati Bhavan. President Murmu expressed satisfaction that both sides have outlined an ambitious vision of our partnership for India’s Amrit Kaal and added that this visit has strengthened our resolve to realise this vision.”Earlier in the day, French President Macron participated as the Chief Guest in the 75th Republic Day parade. President Droupadi Murmu and PM Narendra Modi warmly greeted him. French contingents marched alongside Indian forces on the Kartavya Path. (ANI)

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Staff Reporter

Entertainment

Dubai is ready to dazzle with Diwali 2024 celebrations

Published

18 hours ago

October 17, 2024

Lekha Menon

Dubai is known for its multicultural spirit and vibrant festivities. Especially for the Indian community, it’s truly a home away from home as there are so many elements that bring the flavour and essence of India in Dubai. The celebrations of Diwali definitely top the list with the government going all out to ensure the city lights up with fun and festivities during this period!

This year, the Festival of Lights, a celebration organised by Dubai Festivals and Retail Establishment (DFRE), a part of Dubai Economy and Tourism, in collaboration with the Consulate General of India, promises a spectacular celebration with a plethora of events for residents and tourists alike.

Here’s What You Can Look Forward To:

1. Spectacular Fireworks Displays

Diwali wouldn’t be complete without fireworks, and this year, Dubai is set to outdo itself. The sky will light up at:

• Al Seef on October 25 at 9:00 PM

• Global Village on October 25-26 and November 1-2

These mesmerising displays will mark the beginning of the festivities and offer families and friends the perfect excuse to come together under the night sky.

2. Noor – Festival of Lights at Al Seef

This one is not to be missed. Noor – Festival of Lights, taking place at Al Seef from October 25-27 is a cultural extravaganza, produced by TeamWork Arts and it will feature:

• Artistic expressions and stunning light displays

• Theatre shows, poetry recitations, and puppet processions

• Live musical performances and stand-up comedy acts

• Indian delicacies and vibrant outdoor markets

Visitors can wander through Al Seef’s traditional souk and 1.8-kilometre promenade, beautifully decorated for the season.

3. Romesh Ranganathan’s Stand-Up Show

Comedy fans are in for a treat with the return of UK comedian Romesh Ranganathan to Dubai. Known for his witty observational humour, Romesh will perform a brand-new show at the Coca-Cola Arena on October 25, offering a night of laughter and entertainment.

4. The Unforgettables – A Tribute to Jagjit Singh

Music lovers can indulge in a soulful experience with The Unforgettables, a tribute to the late Indian music legend Jagjit Singh. Hosted at the Sheikh Rashid Auditorium on October 26, the concert features Tauseef Akhtar, a disciple of Singh, who will perform some of the maestro’s greatest hits.

5. Deepavali Utsav 2024

Scheduled for October 26 at the Etisalat Academy, this event offers an evening filled with traditional Indian games, folk dances from across India, and a lively funfair. Visitors can also savour a wide array of Indian delicacies from various food stalls, creating a rich festive atmosphere for families.

6. Meera: Echoes of Love

Combining dance, theatre, and music, this captivating performance on October 26 at Dubai British School, Jumeirah Park, will celebrate the strength of women and the timeless theme of love and devotion. Featuring 70 local artists, Meera: Echoes of Love promises to be an emotional and visually stunning event.

7. Shopping Extravaganza and Gold Offers

Diwali is synonymous with shopping, and Dubai’s retail scene is pulling out all the stops. From glittering gold offers to incredible retail promotions, shoppers are in for a treat with:

• Up to 50% off on jewellery and free gold coins with purchases at select stores like Damas

• The chance to win AED 150,000 in gift vouchers with Dubai Jewellery Group

• Lulu Hypermarket offering discounts on Diwali essentials, ethnic wear, and home décor items, along with a special Diwali Mela featuring Tamil film stars and festive events from October 24 to November 2

Major malls, including City Centre Deira and BurJuman Mall, will also be running special promotions where shoppers can win prizes such as half a kilo of gold and glittering home makeovers.

8. Diwali Markets at Global Village

From October 28 to November 3, Global Village will host a vibrant Diwali market at the Indian Pavilion, featuring traditional Rangoli art, live performances, and plenty of shopping opportunities. The market will also spotlight India’s finest street food, making it a foodie’s paradise.

9. Foodie Delights

Diwali in Dubai wouldn’t be complete without indulging in authentic Indian flavours. Restaurants across the city will be serving up exclusive Diwali menus, including:

• Punjab Grill, a Michelin Guide Select restaurant, offering a festive menu from October 25 to November 7

• Chutney’s at Movenpick Hotel, Bur Dubai, hosting a Diwali set menu from October 31 to November 3, complete with a rangoli competition and live entertainment

• iZ at Grand Hyatt Dubai, serving a three-course Diwali set menu from October 31 to November 2

A Festival for Everyone

With its diverse programming, Dubai’s Diwali 2024 aims to cater to all ages and interests, making it a festival for everyone. Whether it’s the thrill of fireworks, the joy of discovering hidden gems at a Diwali market, or the sheer pleasure of indulging in traditional delicacies, Diwali in Dubai promises to be an unforgettable experience.

Announcements

Yas Waterworld unveils UAE’s tallest waterslide and 18 New attractions

Published

6 days ago

October 11, 2024

Staff Reporter

Prepare for an epic splash! Yas Waterworld in Abu Dhabi is in the processing of upgrading their water park thrills with the addition of the UAE’s highest waterslide and 18 brand-new rides. Adventure seekers and families alike can look forward to an enhanced experience as the park undergoes a massive 16,900-square-meter expansion. The new section, expected to open in 2025, will feature 18 exhilarating attractions, bringing the total number of rides and experiences at Yas Waterworld to over 70.

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More than 55% of the construction is already complete, and one of the most anticipated highlights is the all-new waterslide complex. Designed to accommodate 20 riders simultaneously, the complex boasts:

-The UAE’s highest slide-

-A pioneering water-based amusement ride

-A heart-pounding 15-meter drop

In addition to these high-adrenaline rides, Yas Waterworld will introduce “The Legend of the Lost Village,” an exciting continuation of its famed “Legend of the Lost Pearl,” a story steeped in the UAE’s rich pearl-diving heritage. The expansion will also feature 8 new pools and a variety of food and beverage outlets, perfect for a day of aquatic adventure and relaxation. For younger thrill-seekers, the new additions include mini versions of fan-favorite rides like Dawwama Junior and Sebag, allowing kids to join in on the fun with safe, scaled-down versions of iconic attractions.

Entertainment

Animenia ready to take over Abu Dhabi

Published

3 weeks ago

September 28, 2024

Staff Reporter

The groundbreaking anime festival like no other is coming to Abu Dhabi, October 23rd to 27th, 2024, at the prestigious Manarat AI Saadiyat. Animenia, an anime festival that redefines anime expos, missing this festival is not an option.

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This festival will bring anime to life for you in a memorable way. You won’t just be watching anime—you’ll be living it. Fans will have the chance to fully dive into the enchanting realms of beloved anime, featuring popular titles like Jujutsu Kaisen, Attack on Titan, Naruto, Sanrio, and beyond. Animenia will host the largest cosplay competition ever held in the region, featuring an extraordinary prize pool that surpasses AED 400,000. From experienced cosplayers to those just starting their journey, to display their imaginative creations, this is an incredible opportunity for both. Participants will also get the privilege of presenting their work in front of esteemed international cosplay stars such as Yuegene Fay, Rian CYD, and SabCosplay, who will be judging the event. It’s an incredible opportunity to gain recognition and win amazing prizes. Fans can expect some of the most revered figures in the anime industry. Highlights of the guest list include the legendary Yutaka Abe, celebrated for his work on Detective Conan, and Ryo Horikawa, the iconic voice of Vegeta from Dragon Ball because Animenia promises to be a celebration of talent and creativity followed by jaw-dropping concerts with anime music icons like Rasha Rizk, Yoko Takahashi and many more. You’ll also uncover an exhilarating array of regional and global brands, offering must-have anime gear, exciting collectibles, and stylish anime streetwear. Animenia offers something for everyone.

This incredible festival unfolds over five days, starting October 23rd. Time is running out! Celebrate one of the biggest anime events by securing your tickets for this once-in-a-lifetime anime adventure before they’re gone.

Check out animeniaabudhabi.com or ticketmaster.ae to grab your festival day pass for just Dh65. For the hardcore fans, limited 5-Day festival passes are available for Dh425.