Apex Hospitals Launches Free Gynecology Checkups for Women This Valentine’s

Apex Group of Hospitals Offers Free Gynecology & Obstetrics Consultation This Valentine’s — Prioritizing Women’s Health Across Mumbai

Mumbai, Feb 10: Apex Group of Hospitals, a leading healthcare provider in Mumbai, is proud to announce a special Free Gynecology & Obstetrics Consultation from 15th February to 15th March 2026. With over 350 beds and modern facilities across Borivali, Kandivali, and Mulund, the hospital group is celebrating Valentine’s Day by encouraging women and their loved ones to place health at the heart of every relationship.

Women’s health remains a critical concern in India, with conditions such as menstrual disorders, PCOS (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome), cervical infections, fibroids, and reproductive health issues often going undiagnosed due to lack of awareness or delayed medical attention. Regular consultations with a qualified gynecologist can aid early detection of conditions like cervical cancer, hormonal imbalances, and reproductive complications, leading to better long-term health outcomes.

Dr. Tanvi Shah, Assistant Director, Apex Group of Hospitals, said,

“At Apex Group of Hospitals, we strongly believe that preventive care is essential. Regular gynecological consultations empower women with a better understanding of their bodies, reproductive health, and overall well-being. Early detection and timely treatment can truly transform lives and help women build stronger, healthier futures.”

This Valentine’s initiative aims to remove barriers to women’s healthcare by offering complimentary expert consultations for a limited period. Appointments are available by prior reservation only, and slots are limited. Healthcare experts recommend that adult women undergo a gynecological examination at least once a year, or more frequently if symptoms such as irregular periods, pelvic pain, unusual discharge, or reproductive concerns arise.

9th IDF Symposium on Non-Bovine Milk Kicks Off at NDDB, Anand

Anand, Feb 10: The 9th IDF Symposium on Sheep, Goat, Camel, and other Non-Bovine Milk, organized by the Indian National Committee of the International Dairy Federation (INC-IDF), commenced at the National Dairy Development Board (NDDB), Anand on 9 February 2026 and will continue until 11 February 2026. The inaugural session was graced by Mr. Gilles Froment, President, IDF; Dr. Meenesh Shah, Chairman NDDB and Secretary, INC-IDF; Dr. Naveena B. Maheswarappa, Animal Husbandry Commissioner, Government of India; Mr. Takayuki Hagiwara, FAO Representative in India; Ms. Laurence Rycken, Director General, IDF; along with IDF Board Members, academics, industry leaders, policymakers, and professionals from across the dairy sector.

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Over 90 international and national delegates are participating in the symposium, which features seven technical sessions covering topics such as emerging markets, consumer trends, smallholder empowerment, farm management strategies, processing technologies, quality and innovation in non-bovine milk, biosecurity, disease management, and global standards. Posters and exhibits showcase innovations, technologies, and services related to non-bovine milk.

Mr. Gilles Froment highlighted the sustainable potential of goat, sheep, and camel milk in regions with harsh climates, emphasizing priorities such as environment, animal welfare, nutrition, food safety, health, and inclusivity. He stressed the importance of expanding non-bovine dairy through innovation, robust nutrition data, and adherence to global standards.

Dr. Meenesh Shah underlined India’s dairy journey from scarcity to self-sufficiency through Operation Flood and emphasized the growing significance of non-bovine milk for climate resilience, nutrition, and women’s empowerment. He highlighted NDDB initiatives including disease control programs, advanced breeding technologies, goat artificial insemination, and camel milk marketing through Amul’s Sarhad Dairy, calling for scale-up of such models.

Dr. Naveena B. Maheswarappa emphasized non-bovine milk’s nutrient-rich, climate-friendly production systems and advocated for science-led, cluster-based approaches with traceability to create resilient value chains.

Mr. Takayuki Hagiwara praised India’s efforts in promoting camel, goat, and sheep milk and highlighted successful models in Rajasthan and Kutch, encouraging further research and stronger value chains to unlock the sector’s potential.

Ms. Laurence Rycken acknowledged India’s leadership in inclusive, science-driven dairy development and underscored the role of non-bovine milk in supporting livelihoods, addressing climate change, and meeting shifting consumer expectations. She called for data-driven strategies to strengthen sustainability and connect global expertise.

The symposium serves as a platform for knowledge exchange, collaboration, and innovation, reinforcing India’s pivotal role in advancing non-bovine milk production and establishing resilient, sustainable, and inclusive dairy value chains globally.

Dr Bruce Levine to receive the Genome Valley Excellence Award at Bio Asia 2026

New Delhi: Feb 10:  Bio Asia, Asia’s largest annual global biotechnology and life sciences forum organized by the Government of Telangana, is proud to announce that the prestigious Genome Valley Excellence Award will be conferred upon Dr Bruce Levine, Barbara and Edward Netter Professor in Cancer Gene Therapy at the University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, for his outstanding contributions to cell and gene therapy, engineered T cells, and cancer immunotherapy.

Dr Bruce Levine

Dr Bruce Levine’s research has redefined the frontiers of cell and gene therapy, translating bold scientific ideas into lifesaving clinical realities. His pioneering work has enabled the safe and effective genetic modification of human cells, laying the scientific foundation for a new generation of personalised, living medicines.

Through seminal discoveries and first-of-their-kind clinical studies, he has played a pivotal role in advancing engineered T-cell and CAR T-cell therapies, contributing directly to the emergence of the first FDA-approved gene therapies for cancer. These breakthroughs have not only changed treatment paradigms for previously incurable malignancies but have also established new standards for translational biomedical research.

Beyond individual discoveries, Dr Levine’s work exemplifies research excellence with a global impact, spanning fundamental science, clinical translation, scalable manufacturing, and real-world implementation. His prolific scientific output, influential patents, and role in creating successful biotechnology enterprises reflect a rare ability to bridge laboratory innovation with societal benefit.

Equally significant is his commitment to scientific leadership and mentorship, shaping generations of researchers and clinicians while advancing equitable access to cutting-edge therapies worldwide. His body of work stands as a testament to how rigorous, curiosity-driven research can deliver profound and lasting benefits to humanity.

According to Mr D. Sridhar Babu, Minister for Industries, IT and Legislative Affairs, said,

“We are proud to present the Genome Valley Excellence Award 2026 to Dr Bruce Levine, whose pioneering work in CAR T-cell therapy and gene editing has significantly advanced global cancer care. His innovations set new benchmarks in immunotherapy, and Telangana remains committed to recognising such contributions, shaping the future of medicine.”

Speaking on the announcement, Mr Sanjay Kumar, Special Chief Secretary, Department of Industries & Commerce, Government of Telangana, said,

“We are pleased to confer the prestigious Genome Valley Excellence Award 2026 on Dr Bruce Levine for his remarkable advancements in cell and gene therapy. Bio Asia continues to bring together the brightest minds in life sciences, and this award testifies to the global impact of his research.”

Mr Shakthi M. Nagappan, Director, Life Sciences and Pharma, Government of Telangana, added,

“The Genome Valley Excellence Award celebrates distinguished leaders in life sciences. Dr Levine’s work exemplifies innovation in cancer gene therapy, pushing biomedical boundaries on a global scale.”

BJP MP Manoj Tiwari Inspires Students at GAV International School’s Grand Annual Function in Gurugram

Gurugram, Feb 10: GAV International School, Gurugram, hosted its grand Annual Function with BJP Member of Parliament Shri Manoj Tiwari gracing the occasion as Chief Guest. The event, organized around the theme “Sarve Bhavantu Sukhinah”, celebrated universal harmony, well-being, and collective progress.

GAV International School’s Grand Annual Function in Gurugram

The function was further honoured by the presence of Retired IAS Officer Shri K.K. Khandelwal as Special Guest, who appreciated the school’s commitment to holistic education through culture, values, and creativity.

Students showcased a series of vibrant performances reflecting patriotism, social unity, cultural heritage, and moral values, leaving the audience impressed with their confidence, talent, and stage presence.

Addressing the gathering, MP Manoj Tiwari emphasized that children are the nation’s future and commended the school for providing a platform to nurture leadership and creativity among students.

Shri K.K. Khandelwal highlighted that true education extends beyond textbooks, and cultural activities play a critical role in shaping well-rounded individuals.

Mr. Pradeep Kaushik, Chairman of GAV International School, stated, “Our mission is to empower students by giving them opportunities to perform, build confidence, and realize their potential.”

Mrs. Manisha Kaushik, Managing Director, reaffirmed the school’s commitment to academic excellence, values, culture, and social responsibility.

The event concluded with the National Anthem, drawing thunderous applause for the students’ remarkable performances.

B. Prabhakaran Applauds Visionary Leadership of Devendra Fadnavis and Nitin Gadkari for Transforming Gadchiroli

Mumbai, Feb 10: Gadchiroli and the wider Vidarbha region have long been recognised for their vast mineral wealth and human potential. For decades, however, this promise remained largely untapped. Today, that narrative is decisively changing—driven by focused governance, policy clarity, and a long-term commitment to inclusive and sustainable development.

Encouraging words from Chief Minister of Maharashtra, Shri Devendra Fadnavis ji, and Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways, Shri Nitin Gadkari ji, have deeply resonated with stakeholders working on the ground in the region. Their leadership reflects a development approach where industrialisation is not pursued in isolation, but as a catalyst for employment generation, infrastructure creation, and regional integration.

The sustained push by CM Shri Devendra Fadnavis ji to unlock Gadchiroli’s industrial potential while ensuring balanced regional growth has brought renewed confidence to Vidarbha. His focus on enabling large-scale investments, strengthening governance frameworks, and ensuring that development reaches local communities has been central to the region’s transformation.

Complementing this, Union Minister Shri Nitin Gadkari ji’s long-standing emphasis on infrastructure-led growth and decentralised industrial development has provided critical momentum. His consistent advocacy for Vidarbha has helped position the region on the national economic map, encouraging industry participation and long-term capacity building.

A powerful symbol of this transformation is the Lloyds Fellowship programme, under which 12 additional students from tribal and underprivileged backgrounds in Gadchiroli have been selected to pursue higher education at Curtin University, Perth, Australia. These students have undergone rigorous academic and language training and will now access world-class education—marking a significant shift from local constraints to global opportunities for the region’s youth.

The emergence of a robust steel ecosystem across Gadchiroli, Chandrapur, Wardha, Nagpur, and Bhandara further underscores this inflection point. The vision of developing a Green Steel Hub reflects a forward-looking industrial strategy anchored in sustainability, efficiency, and global competitiveness positioning Vidarbha as a key manufacturing and industrial hub for India.

Commenting on the transformation, Mr. B. Prabhakaran, Managing Director, Lloyds Metals and Energy Limited, said:

“The leadership of Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis ji has been instrumental in bringing focus, speed, and confidence to Gadchiroli’s development journey. His commitment to ensuring that industrial growth translates into real opportunities for local communities is clearly visible on the ground.”

He added,

“The encouragement and vision of Union Minister Shri Nitin Gadkari ji have further strengthened this momentum. His emphasis on infrastructure, sustainability, and regional equity has helped create an enabling ecosystem for long-term industrial growth in Vidarbha.”

Mr. Prabhakaran further noted,

“The selection of 12 additional students under the Lloyds Fellowship programme reflects our shared belief that true development lies in empowering local youth with global exposure and education. These initiatives ensure that the next generation from Gadchiroli becomes an active participant in India’s growth story.”

The growing national and international focus on Vidarbha—further reinforced by platforms such as Advantage Vidarbha 2026, which brings together global investors, industry leaders, and policymakers signals the region’s readiness for its next phase of growth. With strong political leadership and collaborative intent, such efforts are expected to accelerate investments, deepen industrial ecosystems, and ensure development remains people-centric and future-ready.

Delhi CM Inaugurates 100 Advanced ICT Labs in Government Schools to Boost Digital Learning

New Delhi, Feb 10: In a significant step toward strengthening digital education in government schools, Chief Minister of Delhi, Smt. Rekha Gupta, inaugurated 100 advanced ICT labs across Delhi government schools today. The labs were set up under the Digital Equalizer Program by the American India Foundation (AIF) in partnership with Ladli Foundation Trust. The inauguration took place at Sarvodaya Vidyalaya, Mansarovar Garden.

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The ceremony was attended by Education Minister Shri Ashish Sood, Director of Education Ms. Veditha Reddy, AIF CEO Mr. Nishant Pandey, Ladli Foundation Founder Devendra Kr. Gupta, along with senior education officials, school principals, teachers, and students.

Each of the 100 schools has been equipped with a state-of-the-art ICT lab, featuring 20 computers and one Interactive Flat Panel Display (IFPD). To ensure effective usage, a trained resource person will be available in each school to assist teachers and students in digital learning.

Key Highlights of the Initiative:

  • 100 advanced ICT labs across Delhi government schools

  • 20 computers and 1 IFPD per school

  • Dedicated on-ground resource person support

  • Focus on digital inclusion and practical hands-on learning

CM Smt. Rekha Gupta said,

“Before completing one year of our government, we have delivered a century of computer labs for Delhi’s marginalised students. We thank the American India Foundation and Ladli Foundation for partnering with us in this important mission.”

Education Minister Shri Ashish Sood added,

“This initiative strengthens digital education and equips students with essential computer skills for higher education and future careers.”

Mr. Nishant Pandey, CEO of AIF, commented,

“Through the Digital Equalizer Program, we aim to reduce learning inequities by expanding access to technology and building digital confidence among students. These labs will open new learning and career pathways for thousands of young learners.”

Mr. Devendra Kumar, Founder of Ladli Foundation, said,

“This initiative bridges the digital divide for marginalised students, ensuring they can compete equally in a rapidly digitising world.”

The launch marks a major milestone in promoting digital inclusion and practical learning, enabling government school students to gain hands-on experience with technology and preparing them for the demands of the 21st century.

From ideas to authorship: TEDxMahindraUniversity 2026 explores ‘unwritten futures’

Hyderabad/ New Delhi, Feb 10: TEDxMahindraUniversity successfully concluded its latest edition, bringing together students for a day of ideas, reflection and collective imagination. Designed as a platform to share and engage with original thinking emerging from their own community, the event reinforced the role of young voices in shaping the future.

Pic- TEDxMahindraUniversity 2026

This edition unveiled the theme for 2026, ‘Unwritten Futures: Imagining tomorrow, together’, positioning the future not as a predetermined outcome, but as a blank page open to authorship. The theme challenged students, speakers and the audience to move beyond passive observation and step into active participation, emphasising that meaningful change begins with the courage to imagine beyond existing systems and constraints.

Dr Yajulu Medury, Vice Chancellor, Mahindra University, emphasized,

 The theme of this year reflects our belief that education is not just about understanding the world as it is, but about equipping our students to define what comes next. At Mahindra University, we strive to inspire young thinkers to imagine boldly, act with purpose and build futures that are inclusive, compassionate and impactful.”

Through a series of talks and conversations, speakers explored how true transformation requires more than incremental progress. The ideas presented encouraged a fundamental rethinking of how success is defined, shifting the lens from competition and output towards contribution, compassion and long-term impact. Central to this dialogue was the dismantling of outdated paradigms and the emergence of new frameworks for living, learning and leading in a rapidly evolving world.

The event featured a lineup of inspiring speakers, including Mr. Aaboo Varghese, Founder and Executive Director, Purnata, Dr Bhulakshmi V, Founder, GapSkills Learning Solutions Pvt. Ltd., Dr G Madhavi Latha, Professor, IISc and Chair of Centre for Sustainable Technologies, Dr Sarita Subramaniam, Director and Co-found Earth Brigade Foundation (NGO), Sqn Ldr. Neeraj Sharma (retd.), Cybersecurity Leader, Mr Shrinivas, C S Educator, EduVision TLS, Ms. Sharanbir Kaur, Client Partner – Financial Services, Real Estate and Travel, Meta and Mr. Vivek Sundaram, Technologist Exploring Purpose Presence and Human Potential.

A recurring insight across sessions was that outward innovation must be anchored in inner alignment. Speakers underscored the importance of personal rewriting, recognising that shaping an unwritten future requires internal transformation as much as external action. Discussions highlighted the need for holistic growth that integrates emotional resilience, intellectual courage and purposeful intent, while building the emotional infrastructure necessary to navigate continuous change.

The event examined how collaboration, empathy and cooperation must become foundational principles as societies adapt to shifting global realities. Speakers challenged inherited norms around interaction and resource-sharing, offering perspectives on how shared authorship of the future can lead to models of progress that unite rather than divide.

Tarun Khanna to Play Mahadev in &TV’s Hey Bhagwaan

Tarun Khanna to Portray Mahadev in &TV’s Upcoming Divine Dramedy Hey Bhagwaan  Kitna Badal Gaya Insaan!

&TV is all set to deepen its promise of delivering light-hearted, relatable, and feel-good entertainment with its upcoming divine dramedy Hey Bhagwaan – Kitna Badal Gaya Insaan!. Set against the spiritual backdrop of Ujjain, the show blends slice-of-life humour, emotional storytelling, and a gentle mythological twist. Adding charm to this unique narrative is known for portraying mythological characters with depth and dignity is veteran actor Tarun Khanna, who steps into the powerful and revered role of Mahadev, bringing divinity closer to everyday human life in a humorous way.

Expressing his excitement about stepping into this divine yet refreshingly human role, Tarun Khanna shares,

“Portraying Mahadev has been an immensely exciting and creatively fulfilling experience for me. This interpretation of Shiva is ruggedly charming, warm, and quietly observant, often amused, and at times gently baffled, by the absurdities of human behaviour. What truly distinguishes him is the way he communicates; through riddles, wit, and references that resonate with today’s generation, making him relatable and approachable in a way audiences haven’t witnessed before. Exploring this lighter, more playful dimension of divinity has been a joy, where Mahadev walks among humans, subtly guiding them, and even brings celestial allies in human form, known only to Mahesh.”

He further adds,

“In real life, I deeply resonate with Shivji’s philosophy. He is called Bholenath, yet his innocence is often misunderstood. He is compassionate and accessible, but also profoundly wise and worldly. Striking that balance is what I strive to bring to the character. In this show, when God himself descends to Earth and begins living like a human, especially in a city like Ujjain, it naturally gives rise to moments that are entertaining, emotional, and deeply thought-provoking. We have seen Mahadev on Mount Kailash, but Mahadev in Ujjain is an experience audiences have never had before. I sincerely hope viewers embark on this journey with us and find it as beautiful as we have while creating it.”

Watch Tarun Khanna as Mahadev in Hey Bhagwaan – Kitna Badal Gaya Insaan!, premiering soon on &TV and streaming exclusively on Hindi Z5.

Gulf Oil Reports Strong Q3 Performance, Strengthens EV and Industrial Growth

New Delhi, Feb 10: Gulf Oil Lubricants India Limited, a Hinduja Group Company, has announced its unaudited financial results for the quarter and nine months ended December 31, 2025. The company reported robust revenue and volume growth across key segments, reflecting strong operational performance and market demand.

For Q3 FY’26, on a standalone basis, revenue from operations rose to Rs. 997.92 Crores, up 10.28% year-on-year, with EBITDA increasing by 6.60% to Rs. 130.27 Crores. Consolidated revenue reached Rs. 1,017.55 Crores, a 10.56% growth, while EBITDA stood at Rs. 132.46 Crores, up 7.80% YoY. The nine-month period saw revenue growth of over 11% and EBITDA growth close to 10% on a consolidated basis.

Commenting on the results, Mr. Ravi Chawla, Managing Director & CEO, Gulf Oil Lubricants India Ltd, said:

“Q3 has been a strong quarter for us, with record volumes, revenue, and EBITDA. Demand surged post-monsoon and festive seasons, with broad-based growth across B2C and B2B segments. Key drivers included double-digit growth in Passenger Car Motor Oil (PCMO) and Agri, as well as OEM Franchise Workshops (FWS) performance. Our EV subsidiary Tirex is progressing well, adding marquee clients and contributing to a strong top-line growth of 83% for the quarter.”

Mr. Manish Gangwal, Whole-Time Director & CFO, added:

“Our execution capabilities are reflected in healthy double-digit topline growth and highest-ever quarterly EBITDA. Despite challenges such as INR depreciation and new labour code provisions, we maintained sequential margin improvement. The Board has declared an interim dividend of Rs. 21 per equity share, highlighting our focus on shareholder returns.”

Key Business Highlights:

  • Strong B2C and B2B growth across PCMO, Agri, Industrial, and OEM segments.

  • Strategic marketing and partnerships, including CII Excon 2025 participation and India Bike Week sponsorship.

  • EV segment advancement through Tirex, including partnerships with Mahindra & Mahindra and VinFast.

  • Sustainability initiatives: 100% rooftop solar capacity at Chennai and Silvassa plants, contributing 28% of total power consumption.

  • CSR and skill development: Training hundreds of mechanics through Kushal Mechanic Training Program.

Gulf Oil continues to focus on sustainable, profitable growth while driving innovation in mobility, EV infrastructure, industrial solutions, and customer engagement, reinforcing its position as a market leader.

Kalidas ka Kathalok Festival Concludes at Purana Qila, Delhi

Kalidas ka Kathalok, a two-day cultural festival curated by Samay Yaan in collaboration with IGNCA, concludes at Purana Qila, New Delhi

New Delhi, Feb 10: Delhi witnessed a rare cultural immersion into India’s ancient civilisational consciousness as Kalidas ka Katha Lok, a two-day cultural festival curated by Samay Yaan in collaboration with the Indira Gandhi National Centre for the Arts (IGNCA), concluded successfully at Purana Qila on 7–8 February 2026.

Image Kalidas Ka Kathalok

Rooted in the theme “Kalidas and His India,” the festival invited audiences to experience the world of Mahakavi Kalidas not as distant history, but as a living, breathing continuum of ideas, aesthetics, and social thought. Over two days, thousands of visitors, students, scholars, artists, and families engaged with India’s classical heritage through theatre, music, storytelling, workshops, installations, and scholarly dialogue.

The festival was inaugurated by Shri Kapil Mishra, Hon’ble Minister of State for Language, Culture and Tourism, along with Dr. Sachchidanand Joshi, Member Secretary, IGNCA; Justice (Retd.) S. N. Dhingra, Founder of Samay Yaan; Dr. Sandhya Purecha, Chairperson, Sangeet Natak Akademi; and Shri Chittaranjan Tripathi, Director, National School of Drama.

Held within the historic landscape of Purana Qila, the festival transformed the venue into a symbolic passage into the India of nearly 2,000 years ago. Visitors were welcomed with immersive entry experiences, thematic décor, poetic installations, and curated experiential zones that evoked everyday life, trade, art, and learning from Kalidas’s era.

The festival was graced by several dignitaries including Dr. Sachchidanand Joshi – Member Secretary, IGNCA; Dr. Sandhya Purecha – Chairperson, Sangeet Natak Akademi; Prof. Ranjana Aggarwal – Founder Director of CSIR-NIScPR; Shri Sudhanshu Trivedi – Member of Parliament; Prof. Kapil Kumar – historian and author; Capt. Praveen Chaturvedi – CEO of Prachyam Studios; and Sushri Bharti Dixit, storyteller.

Speaking at the event, Justice (Retd.) S.N. Dhingra, Chairman, Samay Yaan, said,

“Kalidas ka Kathaalok is our attempt to bring ancient India out of textbooks and make it a live experience. We are not recreating history as a spectacle, but opening a space where stories, ideas, and emotions from 2000 years ago can be felt again. By combining performance, craft, music, and conversation, the festival allows people, especially young audiences, to engage with Kalidas and his world and feel the vibrant Bharat of his era.”

Ms. Bharti Dhingra, Project Head – Katha Lok, said,

“This festival is built around listening to stories, to places, and to the questions ancient India was curious about: love, power, nature, and society. Kalidas ka Kathaalok does not tell audiences what to think about the past. Instead, it creates the atmosphere that allows reflection and dialogue.”

Shri Chittaranjan Tripathy, Director, National School of Drama, said,

“At the National School of Drama, we believe theatre is one of the most powerful ways to understand society and history. Through Kalidas ka Kathaalok, we are engaging with young performers and storytellers to explore life in ancient India, not as mythology, but as a living reality. This festival gave opportunity and chance to express and reinterpret classical themes through contemporary performance, ensuring that Indian dramatic traditions continue to grow, evolve, and speak to new generations.”

Shri Sachchidanand Joshi, Member Secretary, IGNCA, said,

“To envision a literary festival devoted to Mahakavi Kalidasa is an inspired endeavour. Kalidasa enriched literary traditions through the vast reach of his genius. Our youth readily know Shakespeare, yet remain largely unaware of Kalidasa. This moment calls for reintroducing Kalidasa to the new generation, so they may engage with and take pride in our rich literary heritage.”

Pandit Abhay Sopori, Santoor Maestro & Music Composer, said,

“Indian classical arts have always carried history not as memory alone, but as lived experience. Kalidas ka Kathaalok created a rare space where poetry, music, and thought come together to awaken that continuity. Just as a raga unfolds emotion beyond words, this festival allows ancient ideas to resonate with contemporary sensibilities. It reminds us that our cultural inheritance is not something to be preserved in silence, but to be listened to, felt, and rediscovered by every generation.”

One of the festival’s key highlights was its experiential haat, where audiences explored ancient Indian practices, from attar-making and traditional board games to Brahmi script calligraphy, dhoti-tying, and forgotten culinary and craft traditions. These hands-on spaces enabled visitors to engage with civilisation through touch, scent, sound, and movement, rather than observation alone.

The intellectual core of Kalidas ka Katha Lok was anchored by curated conversations and storytelling sessions featuring eminent thinkers, historians, authors, and cultural practitioners. Discussions explored themes such as ancient Indian trade routes, governance systems, science, philosophy, aesthetics, and the enduring relevance of Kalidas’s literary imagination in contemporary times.

The performing arts formed a powerful narrative arc across both evenings. A specially curated National School of Drama production on the life and works of Mahakavi Kalidas brought classical literature alive through contemporary theatrical expression.

The much-anticipated Taal Yudh witnessed master percussionists engage in a rhythmic dialogue across traditions, reviving India’s ancient language of rhythm and conversation.

Musical reinterpretations of Kalidas’s works found expression through The Kalidas Bands, an inter-college competition that blended classical and folk traditions with modern musical sensibilities.

The festival concluded with Sur Samay Yaan, a grand musical journey mapping India’s sonic evolution, from the earliest philosophical conception of sound to classical and folk traditions, performed by a large ensemble of renowned musicians and vocalists including Pandit Abhay Sopori, Smt. Ragini Rainu, Dr. Avinash Kumar, Dr. Rindana Rahasya, Pt. Dr. Samit Mallick, and Shri Nitin Sharma.