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Chandigarh University hosts International Music & Dance festival; dedicates it to PM Modi’s vision to connect youth with cultural heritage
Extraordinary cultural extravaganza at Chandigarh University; cultural troupes of over 40 countries participate
CHANDIGARH, India, Oct. 23, 2023 /PRNewswire/ — An unforgettable cultural extravaganza was witnessed at Chandigarh, as the cultural troupes of around 40 countries participated in the international cultural exchange event held at the varsity – featuring talent and creativity from around the globe.
Meenakshi Lekhi, Union Minister of State (MoS) for external affairs and culture, who was the chief guest on the occasion, said that Indian culture is the culture of science. “Although, Science has become a significant part of our lives today, it is important to know that Science is not separate from our culture. Today, more than 65% of all the medicines are phytochemicals, which are derived from plants just as Ayurveda does,” she said.
In the cultural event at CU – named International Dance and Music Festival on the theme ‘One World, Many Cultures’ – the students of around 40 countries attended and participated. On Sunday, the cultural troupes of Malaysia, Iraq, Kyrgyz Republic, Nepal, Bhutan, Kazakhstan, Lesotho, Romania and Bangladesh dressed in their colourful traditional attires showcased the beauty of indigenous music and dance cultures of their respective countries. The event was held in collaboration with the Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR), Ministry of External Affairs, Government of India.
Amit Sahai Mathur, program director, Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR) attended the event as guest of honour. CU Chancellor Satnam Singh Sandhu; Prof Himani Sood, vice president, Chandigarh University were present on the occasion along with other dignitaries and varsity officials.
This event aimed to promote international culture and celebrate diversity and inclusivity. It was held to build a more compassionate and harmonious society by bringing the people of the world together in celebration. All the cultural troupes also took part in the procession on the CU campus – celebrating the diverse cultures and unity of diversity.
While addressing the participants and students during the event, Union Minister of State (MoS) for external affairs and culture, Meenakshi Lekhi said that India shares deep-rooted cultural and historical relations with Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS) countries such as Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan, dating back to the ancient silk route era.
“In the cultural sphere, we have so many similarities in practices, music, language including Sanskrit. However, post-independence in 1947, these countries grew distant from India due to the superficiality of borders but the cultural connect has remained. Because, the superficiality of differences does not take away the unity, which is something that Indians seek in everything. Unity is not about similarities and differences between the nations and cultures, but it is an attitude of looking at the things,” she said.
While highlighting that Indian culture is the culture of science, she further said, “All the sciences and art practiced across the world today, is a part of Indian cultural heritage which is a part of the world history that is thousands of years old. Given its number of health benefits, we can see that Yoga has now become a global practice,” she said, adding that Indians are the products of Sindhu Saraswati civilization which itself exemplifies the culture of continuity and unity.
She added, “With the more exposure one gets at this age and the more cultures he or she gets to see and learn from, comes the realization about being a part of the culture and culture being a part of oneself. It is the best way to celebrate ‘Vasudhaiv Kutumbhkam’ – the world is one big family – because if we focus on the similarities, then we will find that there is unity in diversity.”
Meanwhile, CU Chancellor, Satnam Singh Sandhu, said that the event was held to bring the world together as one global family. “The mega event reflected both the world’s unity and incredible diversity. It is also important that we promote dignity for world culture and make our youth part of this culture so that we all collectively can foster cultural ties and create a better world. Such events sow the seeds of peace and compassion among the youth,” he said.
Sandhu also said, “India is moving ahead with the mantra of ‘Virasat Bhi, Vikas Bhi’ given by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, which means that heritage is a vital asset for economic growth, diversification, and progress of the country. Cultural heritage defines the history and identity of a nation and PM Modi has remained committed to preserve and protect the rich heritage of the country. Modi government has taken several initiatives during the last 9 years. The Modi government launched the schemes like PRASAD and HRIDAY which shows in its unwavering commitment to safeguarding India’s ancient civilizational heritage.”
“The number of India’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites has risen to 42, which includes 34 in cultural category. Presently, India has the sixth largest number of UNESCO World Heritage Sites in the World. It is pertinent to highlight here that India has added 12 new World Heritage Sites since 2014, which exemplifies PM Modi’s firm dedication towards Indian culture and its heritage,” he said.
Performances by international cultural troupes during international festival
The cultural troupe from Kazakhstan gave dance and music performances. The ‘Akkerbez National Dance Ensemble’ from Zhambyl Region of Kazakhstan performed on the occasion with several dance performances like Kara Zhogra, Gakku, Shattyk and Akku.
Sailau Araylim Abayovna from Kazakhstan shared, “Today’s international dance and music festival gave us the opportunity to reflect centuries-old cultural history of our country and introduce it to people from different countries of the world. It was a privilege to perform in India and learn about diverse cultures across the world.” She also shared that a 12-member troupe from Kazakhstan performed Akkerbez, a traditional dance of the Zhambyl region named after K. Azirbayev. This was followed by folk dance and music performances by young artists from the country.
The ‘Sharya Folk Art’ troupe from Kurdistan Region of Iraq presented Kurdish folk dance during the festival. Similarly, the visiting troupe from Kyrgyz Republic, the ‘Ak-Niet’ dance ensemble presented Kyrgyz folk dances. They presented dance forms like Symbat (Kyrgyz national dance), Snowflake (classical dance), Ai-Selki (national kyrgyz dance), Tenderness (classical dance) and Kyrgyz dance.
While speaking on the occasion, Omorova Zhamila MS from Kyrgyz Republic expressed gratitude to have been a part of today’s celebration of world unity and diversity. She further shared that Kyrgyz troupe performed Symbat (national folk dance), Snowflake and Tenderness (classical dance), Ai-Selki (national Kyrgyz dance), and Kyrgyz dance, through which the artists showcased the beautiful culture of central Asian country. “In addition, today’s event gave us the opportunity to connect with diverse cultures of the world and learn more about them.”
The troupe from Bhutan performed the ‘Joenpa Legso’. The welcome dance, Joenpa Legso is known to bless the audience and the entire ceremony with luck and charm. It sets the mood right for the rest of the ceremony to take place. Men and women carry traditional attire while performing this dance in Bhutan. Men wear ‘gho’ and their shoes are called ‘tsholham’. Women wear ‘kira’, ‘tego’ and ‘wonju’.
The team from Nepal performed Dishka Dance (performed at weddings) and Jhijhiya Dance (folk dance) which popular in the western and central Terai among Maithili community.
The team from Lesotho performed Mokhibo dance whereby women dance knelt down emphasizing shoulders and hips in celebration of femininity. It is performed by women during celebrations.
From Malaysia, the Sugam Karnatica group, founded by Sisters Sujitra, Sumitra and Subatra Jayaseelan specialises in combining pop elements into their predominant Carnatic music background, resulting in a fresh genre of music.
Subatra Jayaseelan, a member of Sugam Karnatica from Malaysia, said that such cultural events are a wonderful opportunity to contribute to the preservation and promotion of the cultural individuality of the country formed over the years. During the event, Sugam Karnatica presented a traditional Malaysian music performance combining pop elements into their predominant Carnatic music background, resulting in a fresh genre of music.
From Romania, ‘SUFLET – Soundscapes from the Carpathians and the Himalayas’ also performed. Through the confluence of traditional wind instruments panflute and bansuri, with the accompaniment of Tabla and modern instruments, the artists presented reinterpretations of Romanian folklore masterpieces alongside a colourful repertoire inspired by Indian seasons and festivals.
Narcisa Baleanu, a Romanian who is a part of SUFLET (Soundscapes from the Carpathians and the Himalayas) with traditional wind instruments such as bansuri and panflute, which is inspired by the Indian seasons and festivals. She said, “India and Romani have rich cultural heritage, and today’s festival is a celebration of the friendship between the two countries. The event also gave different countries a platform to come together and share their fascinating culture across the world.”
A cultural troupe from Bangladesh presented their folk dances. During the international cultural event Bhangra was also performed by the local troupe members. it is a fusion of music and dance which originates from the Punjab region of India.
Sharanjit Singh, part of the Bhangra troupe performed by the CU students as they represented India during the international dance and music festival, expressed pride and privilege to host this global-level event and showcase the cultural heritage of the country. He said, “Such cultural festivals must be organized often as they enable the youth to understand and connect with the world.”
About Chandigarh University
Chandigarh University is a NAAC A+ Grade University and QS World Ranked University. This autonomous educational institution is approved by UGC and is located near Chandigarh in the state of Punjab. It is the youngest university in India and the only private university in Punjab to be honoured with A+ Grade by NAAC (National Assessment and Accreditation Council). CU offers more than 109 UG and PG programs in the field of engineering, management, pharmacy, law, architecture, journalism, animation, hotel management, commerce, and others. It has been awarded as The University with Best Placements by WCRC.
Website address: https://www.cuchd.in/
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teamLab Phenomena Abu Dhabi opens its doors to the public in Saadiyat Cultural District
- The innovative multi-sensory art experience redefines the boundaries of immersive art
- Purpose-built 17,000 sqm venue features transformative artworks unique to Abu Dhabi
- Opening music composed and performed by renowned Italian pianist Ludovico Einaudi
- teamLab Phenomena Abu Dhabi takes guests on a sensory-rich journey that transcends the ordinary and ignites curiosity for all
ABU DHABI, UAE, April 18, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — teamLab Phenomena Abu Dhabi officially opened its transformative multi-sensory art experience within Saadiyat Cultural District, an enriching addition to Abu Dhabi’s dynamic cultural and artistic landscape.
To view the Multimedia News Release, please click: https://www.multivu.com/teamlab_phenomena/9331451-en-gb-teamlab-phenomena-abu-dhabi-opens-saadiyat-cultural-district
On 17 April, the grand opening celebration welcomed distinguished guests and cultural leaders, featuring a specially composed performance by renowned Italian pianist and composer Ludovico Einaudi. Set against the venue’s unique architecture, the score was paired with a dramatic display of 6,000 synchronised drones and pyrotechnics, curated to celebrate the new milestone for Saadiyat Cultural District, and reflect the connection between art, technology and imagination.
H.E. Mohamed Khalifa Al Mubarak, Chairman of the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi, said: “teamLab Phenomena Abu Dhabi is a groundbreaking cultural landmark that redefines immersive art experiences on a global scale. It embodies a bold vision that pushes the boundaries of creativity, technology, and human perception, offering visitors an experience unlike any other. Together with our partner, teamLab, we take great pride in bringing this pioneering concept to life, reinforcing our commitment to shaping world-class experiences that inspire, engage, and contribute to Abu Dhabi’s cultural legacy. Saadiyat Cultural District is a cultural landmark of global significance, bringing together the world’s greatest minds and institutions to foster dialogue, inspire creativity, and shape a more connected future.”
Following the opening ceremony, guests were immersed within newly unveiled teamLab Phenomena Abu Dhabi exhibits, meandering between its inspiring artistic installations, interacting with the dynamic artworks, and experiencing the connection between art, technology and natural phenomena.
Toshiyuki Inoko, Founder of teamLab, said: “The artworks in teamLab Phenomena do not exist independently but are created by the environment which produces the various phenomena that creates the artworks. Objects such as stones and man-made creations maintain a stable structure independently. A stone, for instance, will remain unchanged even if placed in a sealed box, isolated from the outside world. In contrast, a vortex in the ocean will vanish in an instant if removed from its environment. Unlike a stone, a vortex does not sustain itself; it evolves with the surrounding currents, formed by water flowing continuously from the outside to the inside and from the inside to the outside of the vortex, changing along with the flow. Moreover, the boundaries of its existence are ambiguous, and there is no material distinction between the vortex and its surroundings.
“The unique environment produces the phenomena, and the environment maintains the existence of the structure. Let us call that existence Environmental Phenomena. The artwork is inseparable from the environment and changes along with the environment. This concept transcends the various conventional notions of existence by physical forms. Even if people immerse themselves physically into the artwork, the artwork will remain intact, capable of naturally restoring itself even if disrupted. However, when the environment is not sustained, the artwork will disappear. The boundaries of the artwork are ambiguous and continuous with the environment. Perhaps, people’s consciousness will expand from the artwork itself to the environment beyond.”
Spanning 17,000 square metres, teamLab Phenomena Abu Dhabi has been developed by the internationally acclaimed art collective teamLab, in collaboration with the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi). The multi-sensory art experience reflects the emirate’s unwavering commitment to fostering creativity and cultural innovation on a global scale, and it presents massive transformative artworks that each blend art, science and technology in groundbreaking ways.
teamLab Phenomena Abu Dhabi is designed to explore and transcend the limits of every guest’s imagination. Each artwork within the unique, purpose-built venue will evolve over time through the interplay of light, sound and movement. Unlike artworks at traditional galleries, visitors will discover exhibits that are fluid, existing in a dynamic relationship with their environment. Each artwork responds to guests’ actions and natural changes in the environment, creating a living, breathing art experience, unlike any other.
Comprising two distinct Wet and Dry areas, guests will be immersed in a series of mesmerising visuals, vibrant landscapes and interactive installations that dissolve the boundaries between art and audience. Every moment offers a new philosophical experience, ensuring that each visitor experience is unique.
In the Dry area, visitors will encounter a variety of artworks that encourage interaction, responding to their movements and actions to create a unique connection between guests and the installations. As they move into the Wet area, guests will follow a dedicated walkway leading them into an exciting realm filled with fluid, hands-on experiences that further deepen their connection with the art.
teamLab Phenomena Abu Dhabi is a key addition to Saadiyat Cultural District, which upon completion will be the largest concentration of world-leading cultural and educational institutions. The District is home to an unparalleled lineup of museums and cultural landmarks, including Louvre Abu Dhabi; the upcoming Zayed National Museum, the national museum of the UAE; Guggenheim Abu Dhabi, featuring a global collection of modern and contemporary art that reflects the diversity of cultures and trends from around the world; and Natural History Museum Abu Dhabi, telling the story of life on earth and the origins of our universe.
The addition of teamLab Phenomena reinforces Abu Dhabi’s position as a global cultural epicentre, offering visitors a unique and transformative experience while showcasing its commitment to creativity, innovation and cultural collaboration on a global scale.
For more information and to purchase tickets: www.teamlababudhabi.com
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Tyger Capital and Credgenics join hands to redefine collections management with innovative tech solutions
- Leverage Machine Learning insights backed communications approach
- Facilitate digital enablement of field team and offer integrated payments
NEW DELHI, April 18, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Tyger Capital, India’s leading non-banking financial company (NBFC), has joined hands with Credgenics, the leading provider of SaaS-based collections and debt resolution technology solutions worldwide. This technology collaboration marks a significant stride towards reshaping the debt collections landscape, leveraging Credgenics’ comprehensive suite of solutions to streamline and optimize Tyger Capital’s loan collections management process.
At Tyger Capital, Credgenics’ AI powered SaaS based platform will help adopt a data-insights backed personalized approach for communications with borrowers across multiple digital channels including WhatsApp, SMS, and emails. With Credgenics CG Collect, the mobile app for field collection teams, the last mile operations will be digitized to unlock higher productivity and operational efficiency.
Commenting on the partnership, Rajaram Manian B, Chief Risk Officer of Tyger Capital, said, “We are excited to leverage Credgenics technology solutions in collections as we are committed to deliver unparalleled financial services powered by cutting-edge technologies and customer-centric approaches. This collaboration aligns with our mantra ‘Customer first’ and our focus on providing exceptional service to our customers while optimizing our operations through innovation and digital transformation.”
Credgenics technology platform will optimize field team operations, enable seamless collection transaction reconciliations, provide digitized customer visit management, and provide real-time tracking capabilities. Credgenics Billzy payments platform will facilitate borrowers to make digital loan payments swiftly, securely, and conveniently. Adoption of cutting-edge solutions from Credgenics promises higher response rates, accelerated debt resolutions, and reduced operational costs, positioning Tyger Capital at the forefront of customer service excellence.
Rishabh Goel, Co-Founder and CEO of Credgenics, said, “Our engagement with Tyger Capital is an extremely valuable addition to our customer base from the NBFC segment. We are confident that Credgenics’ comprehensive solutions will tremendously enhance the collection management process at Tyger Capital. With our focus on continual innovation, enhanced customer experience and strict adherence to regulatory compliance, we aim to deliver significant business value at Tyger Capital.”
The collaboration between Credgenics and Tyger Capital is set to drive a transformative shift in collection management and debt resolution by leveraging cutting-edge technologies. This strategic partnership will enable both companies to deliver enhanced value to their customers while driving sustainable growth and profitability.
About Credgenics
Credgenics is the leading provider of Loan Collections and Debt Resolution technology platforms to Banks, Non-banking finance companies, FinTechs, and ARCs worldwide. The AI-powered SaaS-based platform has been recognized as the #1 Best Selling Loan Collections Platform in India by IBS Intelligence in their Annual Sales League Table for three years consecutively. Credgenics caters to the end-to-end collection lifecycle for retail and SME / MSME debt and works with over 150 customers. It handled more than 98 million retail loan accounts worth over USD 250 Billion in FY24 for collections and has sent over 1.7 billion omni-channel communications. With Credgenics, lenders have increased resolution rates by 20%, improved collections by 25%, reduced collections costs by 40%, reduced collections time by 30%, and improved legal process efficiencies by 60%. https://www.credgenics.com/
About Tyger Capital
Tyger Capital Private Limited is a Non-Banking Financial Company (NBFC) headquartered in Mumbai, Maharashtra, India. Established in 2016, the company commenced lending operations in April 2017 with a mission to support entrepreneurship by providing financial solutions tailored for Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) and rural development. Tyger Capital is dedicated to be the most “economical” and “convenient” lender – Instant disbursement to underserved communities and small businesses. The company’s vision is to be a trusted financial partner that educates, guides, and supports customers, fostering active participation in the financial ecosystem. Tyger Capital has a robust presence with a network of 250 branches across nine states: Andhra Pradesh, Gujarat, Karnataka, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Rajasthan, Tamil Nadu, Telangana, and Uttar Pradesh. This extensive reach enables the company to effectively serve a diverse clientele. Tyger Capital is committed to empowering entrepreneurs and fostering economic growth through its comprehensive financial solutions and customer-centric approach. https://tygercapital.in/
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Herbalife India Launches New Podcast Series – Live Your Best Life, Unscripted
The debut episode explores holistic wellness, mental resilience, and performance strategies with renowned sports scientist and high-performance coach Shayamal Vallabhjee.
BENGALURU, India, April 17, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — In a world where wellness conversations are often reduced to diet fads and fitness trends, Herbalife India, a premier health and wellness company, community and platform is bringing a refreshing change with the launch of its brand-new podcast series — ‘Live Your Best Life, Unscripted’.
Designed as an honest, inspiring, and insightful platform, the podcast brings together experts, athletes, and thought leaders to share their journeys, insights, and lessons on holistic well-being — not just physical fitness, but also mental resilience and emotional balance.
The series is hosted by Ajay Khanna, Managing Director of Herbalife India, who leads engaging conversations with personalities known for their contributions to health, wellness, and performance.
Kicking off the series is an insightful episode featuring Shayamal Vallabhjee — a celebrated sports scientist, high-performance coach, and author. With over two decades of experience working with elite athletes and teams worldwide, Shayamal offers a fresh perspective on what it really means to live a balanced life.
From his experiences growing up in South Africa to living as a monk, Shayamal shares how discipline, mental strength, and spirituality shape both performance and overall well-being. The conversation also explores the role of technology, the importance of gut health, mindful eating, and perhaps most importantly — self-compassion.
Speaking on the launch of the podcast, Ajay Khanna, Managing Director, Herbalife India, said:
“At Herbalife, we believe wellness is a lifelong journey—one that goes beyond counting calories or tracking fitness goals. Live Your Best Life, Unscripted is our way of fostering real, thought-provoking conversations that inspire people to embrace a more holistic approach to health. Through this podcast, we hope to empower listeners with insights from experts and changemakers, encouraging them to prioritize not just physical well-being, but also mental resilience and emotional balance.”
The podcast is available in both video and audio formats — making it easy for viewers to tune in from anywhere.
Watch the Full Episode on Herbalife’s YouTube Channel
Prefer Audio? Listen to the Podcast here: Apple Podcast:
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/live-your-best-life-unscripted/id1808386057
Spotify Podcast: https://open.spotify.com/episode/5dn8QAS0Ods24TVLxyeYsS?si=oeD3ZkONQFqzzs4aeU1w6A
Amazon Music:
This is just the beginning. New episodes of Live Your Best Life, Unscripted will continue to feature inspiring voices from the world of sports, nutrition, and wellness.
Herbalife
(NYSE: HLF) is a premier health and wellness company, community and platform that has been changing people’s lives with great nutrition products and a business opportunity for its independent distributors since 1980. The Company offers science-backed food products to consumers in more than 90 markets through entrepreneurial distributors who provide one-on-one coaching and a supportive community that inspires their customers to embrace a healthier, more active lifestyle to live their best life.
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teamLab Phenomena Abu Dhabi opens its doors to the public in Saadiyat Cultural District
Tyger Capital and Credgenics join hands to redefine collections management with innovative tech solutions
Herbalife India Launches New Podcast Series – Live Your Best Life, Unscripted
Disha Patani emerges as the ultimate fashionista of Bollywood; rocks every outfit she wears
BIGG BOSS SPECIAL: RASHAMI DESAI SURPASSES HER EX BEAU SIDDHARTH SHUKLA TO LEAD THE BIGG BOSS 13 SCORE TRENDS CHART
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