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$2 Million Grant to Boost Smallholder Farmers’ Incomes and Resilience: Walmart Foundation supports Grameen Foundation’s Launch of MANDI-II in Eastern UP and West Bengal

[Varanasi, 20th September, 2023] – Grameen Foundation today announced it will deepen its commitment to smallholder farmers by launching the second phase of the Market Access eNabled by Digital Innovation in India (MANDI) project, made possible by a $2 million grant from the Walmart Foundation. MANDI-II will aim to address challenges faced by smallholder farmers, especially women, in Eastern Uttar Pradesh and West Bengal by building the capacities of Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs).

During the first phase of the MANDI project, also supported by the Walmart Foundation, Grameen Foundation helped build the capacity of 40 FPOs in Eastern Uttar Pradesh by facilitating  market linkages, providing access to finance, data and technology and notably increasing women shareholder participation. The achievements of MANDI Phase I as reported by Grameen include:

·        Gender Mainstreaming: Over 8,300 women were added as new members to FPOs;18 out of 40 FPOs now have at least 40% women membership compared to the 12.5% at baseline. A total of 142 self-help groups (SHGs) have been linked with 25 FPOs, resulting in the establishment of various gender-inclusive value chains, such as moringa, chili, medicinal plants such as aloe vera, and dairy as well as production chains such as sweets from the vegetable bottle gourd, and vermicompost as an alternative, organic fertilizer.

·        Uptake of Agriculture Technologies: Approximately 9,600 farmers benefited from 14 agricultural technologies adopted by FPOs. These technologies include digital, climate-smart, and women-friendly solutions such as RWCM, Rice Doctor, Rice Expert, Wonder Pipes, Dibblers, Cono Weeder, Fasal Amrit for soil moisture retention, Bio Soilz for micro-nutrient activation, and Nano urea for nitrogen balance. Additionally, 1,200 farmers from 27 FPOs adopted biofortified zinc wheat and beta (β) carotene-rich carrot through diversification and climate-smart agriculture practices.

·        Market Linkages: Total sales turnover of all 40 FPOs increased from ~INR 46 million (~USD 580,000) in the pre-intervention period to ~INR 153 million (~USD 1.9 million) indicating that the FPOs established critical market linkages (both agri produce and agri-input) with institutional and local buyers. FPOs transitioned from staple crops to cash crops, added value to selected value chains, and made data-based business decisions. To support FPOs in meeting regulatory requirements, Grameen facilitated 22 FPOs with APMC licences and 26 FPOs with export licences.

·        FPO Financial Resilience: FPOs experienced a 112% increase in paid-up capital, indicating their ability to generate working capital internally. Additionally, 29 FPOs were linked with either the public or private financing schemes, enabling them to access financial resources and establish additional business activities.

Building on these achievements, the second phase of the MANDI project will focus on further enhancing the sustainability and resilience of FPOs in Eastern Uttar Pradesh and West Bengal. The 24-month intervention will engage 50 FPOs through a hub and spoke model, targeting at least 40% women farmers and aiming to reach 35,000 farmers. Key objectives include increasing farmer incomes, strengthening FPOs’ governance and operations, and promoting market-led production for business viability.

The second phase of MANDI will also adopt a comprehensive “one-farm” approach to diversify production, integrate livelihoods, and improve farmer incomes. It will also promote sustainable agricultural practices by facilitating access to organized market setups, strengthening supply and value chains, and promoting climate-resilient practices.

“We are excited to collaborate with Grameen Foundation for the next phase of MANDI. We believe in the transformative potential of smallholder farmers in advancing India’s agricultural sector,” said Julie Gehrki, Vice President, Chief Operating Officer, Walmart Foundation. “Through this project, we aim to provide farmers with the necessary tools, resources, and market access to improve their livelihoods and build sustainable futures for their communities.”

Commenting on the project, Ms. Bharati Joshi, Chief Program Officer of Grameen Foundation India, stated, “The second phase of MANDI builds upon the successes of the first phase and represents a significant step towards increasing the incomes and building the resilience of smallholder farmers, especially women. By leveraging technology, market linkages, and gender mainstreaming, the project aims to generate impact across the agricultural landscape in Uttar Pradesh and West Bengal.”

The MANDI II project will play a crucial role in addressing challenges faced by small and marginal farmers in eastern Uttar Pradesh and West Bengal. By rescaling and empowering FPOs, this initiative will enhance farmer incomes, improve livelihoods, and foster sustainable agricultural practices.

Established in 1976 by world-renowned dancing couple Padma Bhushan’s Drs. Raja Radha Reddy and Kaushalya Reddy, Natya Tarangini is a performing arts center par excellence in the capital city of New Delhi. Under the guidance of the Reddy’s, it has been working tirelessly to preserve, propagate and promote the Indian Dance and Music in our country.

Natya Tarangini started the ‘Parampara Series’ National and International Festival of Dance and Music as a movement to preserve and enrich the cultural mosaic of our everyday life and today takes pride in the fact that it has largely succeeded in its endeavors. Natya Tarangini is conducting its 27th Edition this year with full dedication towards preserving our art & culture. As part of the Parampara Series “Natya Tarangini” will be celebrating the festival by presenting nationally and internationally reputed artists for 3 days.

Today Natya Tarangini’s name has become synonymous with this overwhelmingly successful festival series, which showcases artistes drawn from across the world. The Moscow Classical Ballet, the Paul Taylor Dance Company, flamenco dancer Jose Porcel and whirling dervishes are among the groups that have performed at the festival along with stalwarts such as Pt. Hari Prasad Chaurasia, Kishori Amonkar, Ustad Amjad Ali Khan, Dr. M. Balamurali Krishna, Begum Parveen Sultana, Vyjayanthimala Bali, Kelucharan Mohapatra, Hariharan, Alarmel Valli, Pt. Birju Maharaj, Astad Deboo amongst others, celebrating the embodiment of the best of Indian heritage with the cosmopolitan world view.

Natya Tarangini’s festivals have always been inaugurated by high dignitaries such as Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam, former President of India and Shri L K Advani, former deputy Prime Minister of India to name a few.

Name of the event: 27th Edition Parampara Series- The National Festival of Dance & Music

Dates: 06th to 08th October 2023

Time: 7pm – 9pm

Venue: Raja Radha Rangmanch, Natya Tarangini Performing Art Centre, Plot No. 49 & 52, Sec-6, Pushp Vihar, Saket, New Delhi 17

Performances Details

6th October 2023

Shubha Mudgal – Hindustani Vocal, the queen of Khayal and Thumri will be giving her second performance at the Parampara series
Raja Radha Reddy Repertory will be presenting an amalgamation of 4 Indian Classical Dance styles in their production titled ‘ Hampi Vaibhavam’.

7th October 2023

Fareed Hasan Khan & Mehboob Hussain Khan – Hindustani Vocalists of the Bandish Bandits fame who are carrying on the legacy of the Delhi Gharana
Santosh Nair one of the foremost contemporary dance artists of the country will be presenting his group Sadhya in a production ‘Game of Dance’.

8th October 2023

Bickram Ghosh is back with his renowned percussion ensemble (Rhythm Scape)
Vaibhav Arekar – Bharatanatyam artist known for his immersive theatrical presentation style will be coming with a rare production

Over the last 26 years Natya Tarangini has been conducting the Parampara series without break, bringing authentic innovative concerts year after year. 2020 brought upon the performing artists in India tough times, this festival is our attempt to bring back the arts sector on its feet. By bringing visibility to the artists and the festival, let us spread hope as we move ahead.

18th September 2023: Torque Pharmaceuticals, a prominent player in the pharmaceutical sector, has revealed a heartwarming cinematic creation in honor of World Pharmacist’s Day on September 25, 2023. This film artfully portrays the compassion and dedication demonstrated by pharmacists, showcasing their willingness to go the extra mile in caring for their customers. Aligned with the company’s fundamental values of backing pharmacists, this initiative seeks to pay tribute to and celebrate these healthcare heroes—our pharmacists.

Pharmacists form a strong pivot in the medical ecosystem, as they help customers manage their healthcare regimen in more ways than one. From delivering medicines in the hour of need to helping customers understand when and how to have them, pharmacists are always there to help create a healthier and tension-free world.

Commenting on the digital film launch, Mr. Abhay Iqbal Singh Bedi, Director Torque Pharmacueticals said, “On World Pharmacist Day, we pay tribute to the compassionate unsung champions of healing. This film beautifully encapsulates the profound connection of empathy and gratitude shared between a pharmacist and a customer. Through this cinematic endeavor, we aspire to raise awareness and champion the pivotal role of pharmacists in enhancing global healthcare, aligning with this year’s theme: ‘Pharmacists fortifying the foundations of health systems.’

Created and conceptualized by Torque Pharma, this campaign kickstarted today with a digital film. Post the digital film, the campaign will further aim to share examples of empathy and going the extra mile for customers. Through this film, Torque Pharmaceuticals celebrates every pharmacist who play an active role in bettering people’s lives in times of sickness and placing customers’ interest above theirs.

Mumbai, 18th September 2023: On World Patient Safety Day 2023, a global initiative observed on September 17th, the Consortium of Accredited Healthcare Organizations (CAHO) and the Patient for Patient Safety Foundation (PFPSF) are joining forces to emphasize the critical importance of patient engagement in healthcare through the establishment of Patient Advisory Councils (PACs) and the promotion of Patient Reported Experience Measures (PREMs). This year’s World Patient Safety Day theme, “Engaging patients for patient safety,” perfectly aligns with their mission.

Dr. Alexander Thomas, Founder President, and Patron of CAHO, emphasized the vital role of trust and communication in the patient-provider relationship. He noted that instances of medical errors can erode this trust, not only impacting the patient’s confidence in their care but also undermining the broader healthcare system.

Dr. Nagendra Swamy S C, Patron of CAHO, stressed the importance of recognizing patients as active collaborators in their healthcare journey. Research has shown that when patients are engaged, there is a significant improvement in safety, patient satisfaction, and overall health outcomes.

Engaging patients in their healthcare is a crucial step toward addressing the issue of medical errors. Patient Advisory Councils are central to this effort, serving as platforms for patients to voice their concerns and influence decision-making processes. CAHO passionately advocates for the establishment of PACs to ensure that patients’ voices are heard, integrated, and valued within the healthcare system.

Dr. Vijay Agarwal, President of CAHO, expressed enthusiasm for the overwhelming response received from healthcare providers across India. He described the initiative as a significant moment in the country’s healthcare delivery history and added “To support the establishment of these councils, CAHO is releasing a comprehensive “Step-by-Step Guide to Establishing a PAC.”

Dr. Lallu Joseph, Secretary General of CAHO, highlighted another critical initiative aimed at sensitizing healthcare organizations to “Patient Reported Experience Measures” (PREMs). PREMs are self-reporting instruments that gauge patients’ perceptions of their care experiences and help assess whether healthcare providers are meeting patients’ needs.

Mr. Kris Gopalakrishna, Co-Founder and Former Vice Chairman of Infosys, will unveil the Patient Advisory Councils (PACs) on World Patient Safety Day, September 17th, 2023, at Ramaiah Medical College. Esteemed healthcare industry opinion leaders and stalwarts will come together at this momentous event to not only inaugurate PACs but also to establish comprehensive guidelines and chart the path forward for its seamless integration within hospitals. Additionally, the event will underscore the significance of encouraging hospitals to actively participate in the Patient-Reported Experience Measures (PREM) initiative.

CAHO takes pride in its role in creating PFPSF, an organization dedicated to educating and raising awareness about patient safety. PFPSF aims to prevent avoidable harm by empowering patients, healthcare providers, patient support groups, corporations, and caregivers to proactively engage in their healthcare journeys.

Mr. Som Mittal, Chairman of PFPSF, emphasized the significance of providing a neutral forum for the patient community to “Elevate their Voice” and share valuable insights with their caregivers. He urged patients to leverage this opportunity to engage in their own care and work towards reducing avoidable harm.

On World Patient Safety Day 2023, CAHO and PFPSF reiterate their commitment to enhancing patient safety through patient engagement and advocate for the widespread adoption of Patient Advisory Councils and Patient Reported Experience Measures as integral components of safe healthcare practices.

On the occasion of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi’s birthday, News18 India, India’s No. 1 Hindi news channel, is coming up with extensive programming including an exclusive documentary that offers a comprehensive and unbiased look into his remarkable journey. This documentary, titled Vishwa Mitra is scheduled for a special broadcast on the 17th of September 2023.

As India’s No. 1 Hindi news channel, News18 India has always been committed to delivering credible and insightful content to its viewers. In line with this commitment, Vishwa Mitra promises to provide a unique perspective on the life and leadership of Prime Minister Modi.

This documentary will delve into many pivotal aspects of Prime Minister Modi’s journey showcasing his unwavering dedication to the welfare of the common people, his fearless approach to leadership, and his significant global impact. It pays tribute to one of India’s most iconic leaders and highlights his visionary leadership.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has undoubtedly made an indelible mark on India’s political landscape. His influence extends beyond national boundaries, making him a global figure of significance. Vishwa Mitra serves as a fitting tribute to his contributions to the nation and the world.

Tune in to the through-the-day coverage on Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s birthday and special documentary Vishwa Mitra on News18 India on 17th September 2023.

This Ganesh Chaturthi brings festivities at home. It’s time to welcome the holy deity with faith, rituals, smiles and devotion. Bring cheer and blessings of Lord Ganesha to your home while you prepare for your Ganesh Pooja. From clothes to home décor items, Shopclues has you covered to shop all your pooja essentials and get ready to welcome the Lord and your loved ones to your place for Ganpati pooja. Below are some products from Shopclues which will ease your shopping experience for Ganesh Chaturthi celebrations at home. https://www.shopclues.com/

Vringra  Sandalwood Agarbatti Sticks

Immerse your surroundings in the soothing fragrance of Vringra Sandalwood agarbatti. Crafted from aromatic roots, spices, honey, herbs, and natural oils, this incense is a pure blend of nature’s finest. Plus, it’s 100% chemical and charcoal-free, ensuring a safe and tranquil atmosphere for your rituals or relaxation.

Sketchfab Mantra OM Ganesh Ji Wall Hanging Decorative Item for Home

Elevate your home decor with the Sketchfab Mantra OM Ganesh Ji Wall Hanging. This 5-piece set is a stunning addition to any space. Crafted from lightweight pine wood, it’s easy to hang and perfect for your living room, bedroom, kitchen, office, or even as a gift for housewarmings and festivals. With premium digital printing, it adds a touch of elegance to your surroundings, creating a positive and charming ambiance.

 Ganesh Ji Wooden Candle Holder

Illuminate your home with the divine glow of this Ganesh Ji Wooden Candle Holder. Crafted with precision, this candle holder not only adds a spiritual touch but also serves as an elegant decor piece. Place your favorite candles on it, and let the warm, flickering light create a serene atmosphere that soothes the soul.

Modern Ganesha 5 Hook Key Holder

Stay organized and stylish with the Modern Ganesha 5 Hook Key Holder. This functional and artistic piece not only keeps your keys in check but also showcases a modern Ganesha design. Hang it in your entryway, and you’ll never misplace your keys again while adding a touch of spirituality to your home.

SVB Saree Yellow Colour Cotton Silk Saree

Embrace elegance with the SVB Saree in a stunning yellow color. Made from a blend of cotton and silk, this saree combines comfort with traditional charm. Whether you’re attending a special occasion or simply want to grace everyday life with grace, this saree is a versatile choice that radiates timeless beauty.

Hey Cross Men’s Cotton Blend Kurta And Salwar SetsH

Elevate your ethnic wardrobe with the Hey Cross Men’s Cotton Blend Kurta and Salwar Set. This set combines style and comfort effortlessly. Crafted from a comfortable cotton blend, it’s perfect for various occasions, from casual gatherings to festive celebrations. Embrace the blend of tradition and fashion with this classic outfit that adds a touch of sophistication to your look.

https://www.shopclues.com/hey-cross-mens-cotton-blend-kurta-and-salwar-sets-153276121.html

Mumbai, 14th September 2023 ASICS, the renowned Japanese sports performance brand, has proudly announced its latest partnership with India’s top Men’s Singles Tennis player, Sumit Nagal. The official announcement took place at a special event hosted at the Official ASICS Store in Lucknow, underlining ASICS’ unwavering commitment to nurturing and empowering India’s top tennis talents.

Sumit Nagal currently holds the esteemed title of India’s Rank 1 in Men’s Singles Tennis. His collaboration with ASICS aims to set new benchmarks on his promising journey, poised to propel his performance where we will see Nagal wear ASICS apparel and footwear during training and competitions. His exceptional prowess, unwavering dedication, and profound commitment to the sport align seamlessly with ASICS’ core values, making him an organic addition to the brand.

In a significant stride toward championing tennis talent, ASICS’ partnership with Sumit Nagal marks an outstanding addition to the illustrious roster, already featuring tennis stalwarts Rohan Bopanna and Karman Kaur Thandi. These three exceptional athletes collectively embody the strength, resilience, and dedication that are synonymous with ASICS.

Talking about the announcement Mr. Rajat Khurana, Managing Director, ASICS India and South Asia commented “We are thrilled to partner with Sumit Nagal, a true champion of the sport. Sumit’s dedication and passion for tennis are unmatched, and we are confident that he will continue to achieve great things. We are proud to support Sumit on his journey to the top, and we look forward to seeing him succeed.”

“ASICS is committed to supporting tennis talent in India, and we are proud to add Sumit to our growing roster of athletes. We believe that Sumit is a role model for aspiring tennis players in India, and we are excited to see what he accomplishes in the years to come.” He added

Expressing his thoughts on this collaboration, Sumit Nagal commented, “I am humbled and honored to join forces with ASICS, a brand that shares my passion for excellence and unwavering commitment to the sport. I am excited to embark on this journey together, marked by relentless dedication and a shared goal of reaching new heights in the world of tennis. I am confident that this partnership will help me unleash my full potential on the court.”

To commemorate this exciting development, ASICS orchestrated a media event at the ASICS store in Lucknow, offering fans, media, and sports enthusiasts an exclusive opportunity to engage with Sumit Nagal, Rohan Bopanna, and Karman Kaur Thandi.

Mumbai’s leading food, entertainment and shopping destination, Infiniti Mall recently concluded vibrant Krishna Janmashtami celebrations at both the outlets of the mall i.e. Andheri and Malad. The celebrations invited customers from all walks of life to experience an enthralling time and witness the grand scale celebrations through a range of vivacious cultural events.

Girls groups rise high, spreading the joy of the festivities while breaking the Handi, which was a one-of-its-kind highlight from the day. It showcases the mall’s effort to highlight women’s power.

The spectacular weekend of performances lined up for customers for pottery workshops to instrumental fusion musical events organized by the mall, uplifting the festive spirit. The mythological Radha-Kirshna play seized the pulse of the festival and created the utmost engagement and delight for customers.

NEW DELHI, 11th September 2023: Superstar Sunny Deol appeared exuberant in Rajat Sharma’s show ‘Aap Ki Adalat’ after the recent success of his movie ‘Gadar 2’ which has garnered Rs 511 crore at the box office till now.

To a question whether he would think of doing ‘Gadar 3’ in the future, Sunny Deol replied: “Gadar 2 lane ke liye main dar raha tha, Gadar 3 ke liye main taiyar hoon” (I was afraid when I was doing Gadar 2, but now I’m ready to do Gadar 3)

When Rajat Sharma asked whether he had got offers to do sequels like Border 2, Ghayal 2, Arjun 2, Sunny Deol replied: “I think the characters in these movies have made their place in the hearts of people. They want extensions of those characters….. There was a time when Border 2 was being planned, but it could not happen. Now that this film (Gadar 2) has clicked, everybody is energetic, I think some day or other they will be made.

Rajat Sharma: I’ve heard Sunny has also gained some ‘josh’, and that you’ve been demanding Rs 50 crore for a film?

Sunny Deol: Look, it’s the producer who will decide how much to pay depending on how much he earns.

Rajat Sharma: If a movie earns Rs 500 crore, one can demand Rs 50 crore?

Sunny Deol: He will decide how much he can pay. I will not say, I’ll do or not do. I do not work like this. I like to be in projects where I am not a burden.

Rajat Sharma: Did you ever expect Gadar 2 to become a superhit?

Sunny Deol: I had no such expectations…when the first Gadar movie was made, it’s the people who made it a big hit. There was no digital world in those days. But we had that gut feeling that it would click. In those days, we did not use to go out for promotions. ..This time, before doing Gadar 2, we, particularly our director, did a brainstorming. It was delayed and Covid pandemic began. When he told me about the idea, I liked it and from then onwards, work began. I had this confidence that the people who liked Gadar, will like this sequel too. I knew, either the movie will not click, or if it clicked, it will give the movie its due honour (izzat). This movie has kept its ‘izzat’ as a sequel.”

On Salman Khan praising Gadar 2 with his tweet “Dhai kilo ka haath equals chalis cr ki opening. Sunny paaji is killing it. Congrats to the entire team of Gadar 2”, Sunny Deol replied: “Salman and I have a different equation. Obviously I’m senior to him. When I used to work, he used to come on the set. ..Hamesha.. He had a good bond with Papa (Dharmendra)..And so that give and take, which is with very few people, was there. Obviously, it is not that they are my colleagues. I have my bonds with everyone. I am what I am, you may like it or may not like it.”

Rajat Sharma: Even Shahrukh Khan has praised Gadar 2?

Sunny Deol: Definitely, definitely. Woh zaman (those days) when it happened, that was a different time. I say, people forget what happened in those days. One understands such things should not have happened. It was ‘bachpana’ (childish), definitely. After that, Shahrukh and I met several times and spoke to each other about many things. We also talked about some movies. This time, he was watching my film with his entire family. And he called me up. Toh sab cheezen bahut badhiya hai. Sab kuch bahut badhiya (everything is fine now).

Sunny Deol was obliquely referring to the incident with Shahrukh Khan during the shooting of 1993 blockbuster Darr, when he ripped the pockets of his jeans in anger and swore to never work with Yash Chopra again.

Rajat Sharma: Even Karan Johar has praised you this time?

Sunny Deol: “Chaliye, isliye main maafi maangta hoon” (Okay, I tender apology for this)

When Rajat Sharma asked why he did not mix up much with his fraternity in the film industry and avoided parties, Sunny Deol replied: ” I don’t say going to parties is not good, but one has to consume liquor, which I don’t. I am an early riser. I go to bed early. Earlier when I used to attend parties, senior actors, who consumed too much liquor, used to hold me back and then engaged me in a loop and spoke continuously. So one or two or three persons used to hold me back, and mujhko bhi chadh jaati thi (I used to get on a high). After drinks, you can’t talk sensibly, but it was a different period then.

Rajat Sharma: I was reading Dharam Ji’s interview, where he said, he tried to teach Sunny and asked you to sing the song ‘Mausam Yoon Barasta Hai, Dar Kyun Mujhko Lagta hai’. He said he even told Sunny to hug Amrita Singh, but he refused?

Sunny Deol: It’s not that it didn’t happen. Basically, I’m a shy guy. I used to be shy since childhood. I say, every person has his own personality

Rajat Sharma: Do you give jhappi (hug) now?

Sunny Deol: No, I mean, it’s not good to give jhappi without any reason. I have changed a lot. I am changing with the times. I am now 65. If I don’t change, then when?

POLITICS

Sunny Deol said, he was going to quit politics and will not contest next year’s Lok Sabha elections from Gurdaspur, Punjab. “I am not fit for politics….I will not like to contest election anymore. It will be good if I continue to work only as an actor.”

Rajat Sharma: What if Modi ji insisted?

Sunny Deol: I think Modi Ji understands that this boy Sunny is doing good service for the country as an actor, and he should continue to do so. Even people want I should give them good cinema in which I have expertise. I want to make good films for our youth so that they become motivated, be positive. I think we should always be positive and we are proud of what we are.”

Sunny Deol said: “My attendance record in Parliament is very poor. I didn’t ask a single question in the House.”

Rajat Sharma read out his attendance record, which says, Sunny Deol went to Parliament only 19 times in the last three and a half years, and asked only one question. He skipped 2021 and 2022 winter session and this year’s monsoon session.

Sunny Deol said, “I don’t say it’s a good thing to have a low attendance. When I joined politics, I started to realize, it is not my world. But I did all the work that I had to do in my constituency. I will continue to do so, whether I attend the House or not. There is security, and I face problems. As an actor when I go there, crowds surround me. This is our shortcoming. I have a long list of work that I did for my constituency. In politics as a profession, I am a misfit…. I am only able as an actor. Earlier I became a director, a producer. I left everything because I am good at being an actor.”

PAKISTAN

On some Pakistanis on social media challenging him for a duel, Sunny Deol replied: “Such statements will come. I am an actor. I play characters. It will be better if we do not take what is shown in movies as personal. Of course, if somebody wants a ‘panga’ (duel) with me, let him come.”

On another Pakistani saying that their army will reply if ever Sunny visits their country, the actor replied: “In reality, I am not a soldier. I am an actor. I always say, I am doing the role of a character. As a soldier, why should anybody go to another country? No soldier wants to fight the other. A soldier has to work for his country. Nobody wants to take the other’s life….Let me tell you, people from Pakistan shower their love, whenever I go abroad. There are political issues which create problems. People from both sides (of the border) are the same.

People have gone from here. Hum sab isi mitti ke hain, aur sab ek hi hain, aur yeh jo ladhai vagairah hoti hain, yeh honi nahin chahiye. Har aadmi jo ladh raha hai, woh kisi ka beta hai, husband hai, uski behenen hain, poora pariva uska hai aur yeh koi nahin chahta ki woh usey kho den. Na idhar ka chahta hai, na udhar ka chahta hai. Main toh hamesha yahi kahoonga ki yeh sulah ho jaye charon taraf. Kyunki zindabi jab humen mil hi gayi hai, woh jeena ke liye hai, Ladhne ke liye nahin.” (We all belong to the same soil. We are all one. These wars should not have happened. Everybody who is fighting is somebody’s son, husband, he has sisters, aur his whole family. Nobody wants to lose them. Neither from this side, nor from that side. I will always say that there must be conciliation all over. The life we have got is meant for living, not for fighting)

11th September 2023 New Delhi: The Ministry of Media, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is hosting a three-day event in conjunction with the G20 Leader’s Summit. The exhibit, called Media Oasis, is being organized from the 9th to 11th September in New Delhi. The event aims to provide an immersive and interactive experience of Saudi Arabia’s leading projects in the sectors of tourism, entertainment, technology, culture, and sports. The overarching theme of the exhibit is Vision 2030, an initiative by the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia aimed at the diversification of the country economically, socially, and culturally.

Organised by the Saudi Ministry of Media, the event showcases the initiatives being taken by the Saudi Ministry of Culture, Invest Saudi, Saudi Ministry of Sports, Saudi Ministry of Energy, Red Sea Global, SDAIA, FII Institute, Royal Institute of Traditional Arts Konoz, CGC.

Media Oasis is expected to be attended by a host of ministers and senior Saudi officials. The exhibition is taking place at the Oberoi Hotel, New Delhi.

The event is being held in parallel to the HRH Crown Prince Mohammad bin Salman’s visit to New Delhi, India for the G20 Leaders’ Summit.