Archives October 2025

Oct. 1, 2025: Dastan-e-Guru Dutt is a musical tribute to the cinematic legend not through film reels, but through the centuries-old tradition of oral storytelling, in the form of dastangoi to mark his birth centenary.

It is a tribute that commemorates his enduring legacy in a form he would have appreciated—artistic, experimental, and deeply human. Instead of a conventional homage, Dastan-e-Guru Dutt allows audiences to experience his world as though he were present – through the cadences of poetry, the resonance of music, and the intimacy of storytelling where his life and art breathe again in words and in songs.

The Dastan will be rendered by India’s First Woman Dastango, Ms. Fouzia Dastango, renowned for her many captivating performances , particularly her renditions on Meena Kumari, Madhubala, Krishna, and Ram. She brings her own unique style of storytelling, seamlessly blending narrative with songs, either composed by the artist herself or drawn from the films.

“Guru Dutt is not just a name, he is an emotion—an eternal soul who captured the deepest human feelings through his cinema. With Dastan-e-Gurudutt, I wish to bring his life and art to today’s generation, so that his light continues to shine forever.” Says Fouzia Dastango

“I feel deeply grateful to the universe for making me a part of the story of Guru Dutt. To be associated with a show that celebrates a stalwart like him, whose artistry still shines even as we mark his centenary, is an honour beyond words. When I sing his songs on stage, I feel as though I am carrying his stories forward, under his direction. It is both an opportunity and a responsibility. I am inspired to strive for the same—to create art that leaves an everlasting impact, just as Guru Dutt and Geeta Dutt did.” Says Singer Latika Jain

“Programs focusing on music, dance, art, and theatre play a vital role in promoting cultural awareness. They celebrate diverse traditions, foster mutual respect, and help people understand different cultural identities. These creative expressions build bridges between communities and encourage appreciation of global heritage. This is our small initiative in that direction. “ says Vikas Jalan

· The songs will be sung by Singer Latika Jain from Mumbai.

· The research for Dastan-e-Guru Dutt has been done by Ms. Asha Batra, Founder of Cinemaazi, a private digital archive and research centre on Indian Cinema.

· The script is penned by Mr. Abbas Qamar.

· Presented & Produced by Roopali and Vikaas Jalan

Event Details:

Title of the show: Dastan -E- Guru Dutt -A musical tribute to the cinematic genius

Date: 11th October, 2025

Time: 06 PM – 08 PM

Venue: Kamani Auditorium, New Delhi

New Delhi, 01st October, 2025: The celebrated storytelling series Dreamers, conceptualized and narrated by storyteller-filmmaker Sudhanshu Rai, has unveiled a powerful new episode that captures the inspiring life journey of India’s boxing icon Mandeep Jangra. The episode is now streaming across Sudhanshu Rai’s official platforms.

Through his evocative narration, Sudhanshu Rai brings alive Jangra’s remarkable transformation from a small-town boy in Haryana to an internationally acclaimed boxing champion. The story traces his premature birth and his upbringing by his grandmother, whose modest savings funded his very first boxing kit, a humble beginning that sparked an extraordinary journey.

The episode dives into the raw, untold struggles of Jangra’s early years, training relentlessly on nothing but biscuits and milk, stepping into the ring even with a fractured hand, and battling against the odds without access to proper diet or facilities. Yet, his unwavering determination carried him to historic achievements: a silver medal at the 2014 Commonwealth Games, the distinction of being the only Indian boxer to clinch a World Boxing Federation World Title, and the prestigious Arjuna Award for his contribution to Indian sport.

Recalling the sacrifices made by his family, Mandeep’s story highlighted, “There was a time when his father gave him the money meant for his medicines so he could continue hisboxing. That day he wrote his father’s sacrifice in his dairy”.

Even today, Mandeep’s boxing journey continues as he competes and trains with the same determination that defined his rise. Beyond the ring, he runs a trust in his villagededicated to supporting underprivileged children who dream of boxing but cannot afford training or equipment, a heartfelt effort to ensure that no dream is lost to circumstance.

“Dreamers is not just about victories; it is about the fight behind the fight. Mandeep Jangra’s journey is a testament to resilience, sacrifice, and belief. His story will inspire anyone who has ever dared to dream against the odds,” said Sudhanshu Rai, creator of Dreamers.

More than a chronicle of medals and accolades, the episode is a heartfelt tribute to a dream born in adversity, carried forward with grit, and fulfilled with glory. With this powerful narrative, Dreamers continues its mission to celebrate real-life heroes whose journeys ignite courage and determination across generations.

The latest episode featuring Mandeep Jangra is now live on Sudhanshu Rai’s official YouTube & Spotify Channels.