The British pop-rock band Coldplay is in the city, ready to mesmerise fans this weekend i.e. on January 18 and 19, and on Tuesday, January 21, at D.Y. Patil Sports Stadium, Navi Mumbai. Apart from the high anticipation and popular demand, the band’s ‘Music of the Spheres World Tour’ has been in the limelight for another reason – environment-friendly practices. Since the beginning of the tour, they have been striving to promote sustainability, employing several measures to achieve the goal. Some of these measures include: Reducing carbon footprint Powering stage production with renewable, super-low emission energy Minimising air travel Promoting recycling Donating money for environmental and social causes Supporting nature projects In June 2024, Coldplay released a report stating that the direct CO2e emissions from the first two years of this tour were 59 per cent less than their previous stadium tour (2016-17). While there's a long way to go in achieving sustainability in music events, this initiative is a step in the right direction. Sustainable measures for Coldplay Mumbai concert Now that the band is about to perform in Mumbai, several measures have been employed to ensure sustainability. The organisers have also collaborated with Indian railways for an exclusive train, and with Cityflo for buses, to enable seamless and eco-friendly commute for the audience. Also Read: Coldplay Mumbai performance: BookMyShow collaborates with Indian Railways, Cityflo for exclusive train, private buses; check details BookMyShow has released guidelines for following sustainable practices at the venue. These include: Opt for public transportation in order to reduce carbon footprint. Return your LED wristbands, which are 100 per cent biodegradable. The venue has free hydration stations for refilling water, to avoid single-use plastic. Segregate waste according to signages above each bin. Seek help from green volunteers at the venue whenever required. About Coldplay Mumbai concert The gates for the show will open at 3:00 PM and close at 7:45 PM. Artists Shone, Elyanna and Jasleen Royal will perform and entertain the crowd before Coldplay takes the stage on all three days. In addition to performing several hits from their album ‘Music of the Spheres’ and singles like ‘We Pray’ and ‘Feels Like Falling in Love’ from their latest album Moon Music, fans can expect other loved songs from the band’s incredible discography, including ‘Yellow’, ‘The Scientist’, ‘Hymn for the Weekend’, ‘Fix You’, ‘Viva La Vida’, ‘Paradise’, ‘A Sky Full of Stars’ and ‘Adventure of a Lifetime’. All attendees must carry a copy of their valid government photo ID along with the soft copy of the valid government photo ID of the primary transactor. Also Read: Coldplay in Mumbai: From timings to essential guidelines, all you need to know before attending the concert
18 January,2025 11:15 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentFollowing the anticipation and excitement spanning four months since the announcement was made in September 2024, British rock band Coldplay will finally perform in Mumbai this weekend. As fans wait for the city to transform into a ‘Paradise’ with the band’s popular songs echoing through the area, here are some essential details and tips every attendee should know. Coldplay Mumbai concert date, time and venue The Grammy-award winning band is coming to India as part of their ‘Music of the Spheres World Tour’. They are set to perform in Mumbai on January 18 (Saturday), 19 (Sunday) and 21 (Tuesday). All three shows are set to take place at D.Y. Patil Stadium, Navi Mumbai. According to information shared by BookMyShow on Instagram, the gates will open at 3:00 PM and close at 7:45 PM. Coldplay is expected to take the stage post 7:45 PM. How to reach the venue The nearest local train station to the venue is Nerul on the Harbour Line, approximately 2.5 km away (exit from the East side). Additionally, one can also take a bus or auto/cab to the venue. Parking is not available, hence public transport is recommended.Also Read: Coldplay Mumbai performance: BookMyShow collaborates with Indian Railways, Cityflo for exclusive train, private buses; check details Coldplay Mumbai concert tickets The tickets for all three shows were sold out as soon as they went live in November. BookMyShow released additional limited tickets for the shows last week, but they were also sold out quickly. For all valid ticket-holders, the wristband will be their ticket to the concert, according to BookMyShow. No tickets will be sold at the venue. Coldplay Mumbai concert performances and setlist Artists Shone, Elyanna and Jasleen Royal will perform and entertain the crowd before Coldplay takes the stage on all three days. In addition to performing several hits from their album ‘Music of the Spheres’ and singles like ‘We Pray’ and ‘Feels Like Falling in Love’ from their latest album Moon Music, fans can expect other loved songs from the band’s incredible discography, including ‘Yellow’, ‘The Scientist’, ‘Hymn for the Weekend’, ‘Fix You’, ‘Viva La Vida’, ‘Paradise’, ‘A Sky Full of Stars’ and ‘Adventure of a Lifetime’. Coldplay Mumbai concert security guidelines BookMyShow has also released several security guidelines to be followed at the venue. All attendees must carry a copy of their valid government photo ID along with the soft copy of the valid government photo ID of the primary transactor. Additionally, several security checks will be implemented to spot counterfeit wristbands and black marketers. This comes after multiple controversies regarding the black marketing of Coldplay concert tickets. Coldplay Mumbai concert essential tips While the three shows are expected to be grand spectacles with fans immersed in music and fun, here are some tips that can make the experience more convenient for you. Wear comfortable footwear: You might have to stand in lines before entering the venue and for some tickets, even throughout the concert, So, it is recommended to wear comfortable shoes. Eat well before reaching: While food and beverages will be available at the venue, it is always safe to eat something before reaching the venue so as to have enough energy and prevent any health issues. Be mindful of traffic: Since the concert will draw huge crowds, traffic congestions are expected near the area. So, make your schedule accordingly so that you don’t miss the fun! Bring a fully-charged phone: How else will you take 100 pictures and videos at the concert? Network considerations: In crowded spaces and events like concerts, festivals, etc., people usually experience slow internet speed or network delays due to congestion. Be prepared for the same. If you are in a group, make sure you stay together throughout the concert or fix a spot to meet, in case someone gets lost and calls don’t go through. Return commute: Booking cab or auto rides on the spot may not be the smartest choice! Arrange for your return commute in advance to ensure a hassle-free experience. Go through guidelines: Before going for the concert, do read detailed guidelines issued by the organisers and traffic advisories to avoid any inconvenience. Have fun: As LED wristbands light up the stadium and Coldplay delivers mesmerising tunes, sing along and have fun! After Mumbai, Coldplay will perform in Ahmedabad on January 25 and 26. Also Read: Here’s why Coldplay Ahmedabad concert is expected to be a grand spectacle
18 January,2025 03:36 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentOscar-winning musician A.R. Rahman performed in Mumbai on Friday, mesmerising the crowd with his soulful melodies. The third edition of the event ‘Haazri’, which was dedicated to the enduring legacy of the late Padma Vibhushan Ustad Ghulam Mustafa Khan, took place at Jio World Garden in Bandra Kurla Complex. Rahman paid homage to his guru with a selection of Sufi classics, including ‘Khwaja Mere Khwaja,’ ‘Kun Faya Kun,’ ‘Maula’ and ‘Izzu Mantasha’ among others. Veteran vocalist Hariharan also elevated the atmosphere with his mellifluous voice, while Ustad ji’s sons, Murtuza Mustafa Khan, Qadir Mustafa Khan, Rabbani Mustafa Khan and Hasan Mustafa Khan, along with his grandsons Faiz Mustafa Khan and Zain Mustafa Khan, enchanted the audience with their renditions of ‘Aao Balma’, ‘Piya Haji Ali’, ‘Noor-Un-Ala’, among other songs, keeping the maestro’s legacy alive. The event also witnessed the legendary actress Hema Malini being honoured with the third Padma Vibhushan Ustad Ghulam Mustafa Khan Award. Presented by Ashish Shelar, Cabinet Minister of IT and Cultural Affairs, Maharashtra, in presence of distinguished musicians and Ustad ji’s family, the award recognised her unparalleled contributions to Indian art and culture. The event was also graced by Anjali Tendulkar, Sara Tendulkar, director Hansal Mehta, actors Sharad Kelkar, Kirti Kelkar, Aahana Kumra, Taha Shah and Danish Pandor, as well as singers Akriti Kakkar and Benny Dayal, among other celebrities. Ustad Ghulam Mustafa Khan, a towering figure in Indian classical music and a torchbearer of the Rampur Sahaswan Gharana, was a mentor and inspirational figure for many of India’s greatest singers. He was awarded the Padma Shri in 1991, Padma Bhushan in 2006 and Padma Vibhushan in 2018. He was also the recipient of the Sangeet Natak Akademi Award in 2003. The legendary Indian classical musician passed away in January 2021. Against the backdrop of starry skies and heartfelt melodies, Haazri 2025, organised by NR Talent and Event Management, was a fitting tribute to the music icon’s legacy.
18 January,2025 02:54 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondent“I've been writing all my life,” came the immediate reply when we asked Prajakta Koli what prompted her to write a book. Koli, who has traversed mediums to entertain audiences, has now donned the hat of an author with her debut novel ‘Too Good To Be True’ – a romantic tale involving, well, “too good to be true” characters and moments that weave a heartfelt story. Journey of the book “It started with journaling every day, which expanded to writing blog posts and scripts for YouTube videos,” she tells us, reflecting on how the seed of storytelling was planted. “During lockdown, I wanted to explore long-form content, essentially screenwriting ideas that I could pitch to producers and OTT platforms as shows. Because there was so much time, I started working on some ideas. We also put forth writers’ rooms for a few of them. But I found this one idea to be so exciting that I wanted to see what I could do with it. I started telling the story. Initially, I visualised it as a dual-POV series, so I started writing voice-overs from that perspective. Eight excerpts in, my team told me that these seem like full-fledged chapters. Writing a book was never the plan, but that’s how it was born,” Koli reveals. She saw it through after announcing it officially in July 2023. Ask her if the recent trend of content creators and influencers writing books played a role in her journey as an author, and she is quick to say, “I have so much respect for everyone who writes non-fiction. I think it’s extremely daring. Lilly Singh, Masoom Minawala, Harshita Gupta have all written amazing books. But I don't think I have it in me to do that right now. Because it is fiction, I could at least attempt to write it.” Prajakta Koli launched her debut novel 'Too Good To Be True' on January 13 at an event in Mumbai Writing a novel can be a daunting journey. For Koli, making peace with the lack of consistent outcomes each day was the biggest challenge. “I once read a quote that said writing is not tough, but sitting down to write is. The toughest part was the uncertainty of how productive I could be each day. There were days when I would sit for hours and write one mediocre paragraph, and rewrite it over and over. Then there were days I would write three chapters in an hour. This constant imbalance in planning threw me off,” she says. On the other hand, she reminisces, “The most rewarding experience was just the realisation that I have ended up writing a book. Whether it's good or bad is secondary, but the fact that I got through this and showed up for the book each day was extremely self-affirming,” ‘Too Good To Be True’ narrates the story of Avani, who loves romance novels, and Aman, who seems to have come straight out of the pages of those books. Did Koli take any inspiration from her love life in shaping these characters? “I know Aman has brown eyes and a dimple, and my fiancée Vrishank has brown eyes and a dimple, but that’s it! There are no similarities and the story is purely fictional,” she quips. Voice of the book Pushing the envelope of storytelling, Koli and her team also released an original soundtrack and music video for the book before its launch. The song ‘Saanvare’ has been written, composed and produced by Outsky with additional vocals by the author herself. Taking us through the journey of the song, Koli says, “A huge chunk of my audience may not be regular readers, but everyone loves music and romance. The idea was to weave this romance with visuals.” “Secondly, as a reader, every time I read a romance book, I wish there was a face or visual or landscape to relate it to. I wanted this soundtrack to make that happen. We shot the music video in Landour, Mussorie, and the first snow of the season also occurred then. So, everything fell into place beautifully,” she adds. Beyond public eye Koli has often been called ‘relatable’, having honest conversations through her YouTube videos. Her fans have also seen her in different roles on screen, but who is Prajakta Koli beyond the public eye? “Not very different,” she is quick to respond. “I find a lot of value in the relationships I have – whether it's of me as a creator with my audience, as an author with my readers, as a daughter with my parents, as a partner with my fiancée, as a friend, a sister, and more. My inner circle has been my biggest strength always,” she states. “But when I am alone, I am probably napping,” Koli remarks. Quick questions with Prajakta Koli What does love mean to you? PK: Love is just finding beauty in ordinary things. I don't want to chase quirks or things you do differently. I want to chase things you and I have in common, really small ordinary things. Which is your favourite romance novel? PK: Twisted Games by Ana Huang Which is your favourite romance movie/show? PK: There are many – Kal Ho Naa Ho, Kaho Naa… Pyaar Hai, among others. My favourite romance show is the recently released ‘Nobody Wants This’, and ‘Mismatched’, of course. Would you ever write an autobiography? If yes, what would the title be? PK: I have no clue. I think you have to take yourself really seriously to write an autobiography. Maybe eventually, sometime. What do you like more being recognised as – a creator, actor or writer? PK: A creator
18 January,2025 02:46 PM IST | Mumbai | Raaina JainBritish band Coldplay have arrived in Mumbai for their 'Music of the Spheres' India tour in Mumbai and Ahmedabad. With the first of their concert happening this weekend at the DY Patil Stadium in Navi Mumbai's Nerul on January 18 and 19, followed by January 21, there is a lot of excitement from Mumbaikars and fans of the band. However, there is also sadness that hangs in the air among fans, who were really eager but aren't able to attend the concert because they never got tickets. The feeling in the pit of their stomach is even worse now as they can see several fans share stories of watching them in Abu Dhabi, and now getting ready for the Mumbai concerts. Here are some of the reactions ahead of the concert: Fouzia Bukhari I’m a big fan of Coldplay and really wanted to experience their concert now that they’re coming to India. However, the traffic management by BMS was extremely poor, people who joined the queue later were surprisingly way ahead of me in the queue while I joined much earlier and was put behind. And the fact that the tickets were being sold at triple the price later is ridiculous. I also saw stories of multiple brands giving away the concert tickets as a way to increase their followers and engagement on social media, it made me wonder how many tickets were even open for general public to purchase in the first place. Overall, it was a very disheartening experience. Radhika Mathur When they came for the Global Citizen concert, I had just started working in Delhi. So, I couldn't afford it. I even went super antagonistic about the colleagues who had. This time, I "got in" to the queue but it was still sold out by the end of it. I was properly heartbroken. Shweta Mehrotra It was literally a Cold-play with my heart and many other hearts who couldn’t score a ticket. I along with six of my friends sat on multiple phones and laptops but bad luck. I would have found love had I been so persistent on dating apps. Anyway, now I’m busy muting people showing off their Abu Dhabi experience on Instagram and I’m hopeful to block some more soon after January 18.
18 January,2025 12:57 PM IST | Mumbai | Nascimento PintoAfter the successful completion of the first Amrit Snan at the Mahakumbh on January 14, the administration is now ramping up its preparations for the second Amrit Snan, scheduled for January 29. This highly anticipated ritual coincides with Mauni Amavasya, or Maghi Amavasya, a day of immense spiritual significance when millions of devotees gather at the Triveni Sangam for a holy dip. The first Amrit Snan, held on Makar Sankranti, saw an overwhelming turnout of devotees, with official estimates reporting around 3.5 crore people taking a dip in the Sangam by evening. The event marked a successful start to the Mahakumbh, which is being held once every 12 years and will continue until February 26. The administration, recognising the large influx of pilgrims, is expecting an even greater crowd for the upcoming Amrit Snan on January 29. Vivek Chaturvedi, Mela Officer, visited Nirmohi Akhara to meet with saints and address their concerns regarding cleanliness at the Kumbh site. Chaturvedi assured them that the administration is prioritising cleanliness and will not tolerate any dirt. "We are continuously working on cleanliness and ensuring that proper instructions are given. The success of the first Amrit Snan shows our preparation is on track, and we are making sure all issues faced previously are resolved," Chaturvedi said. He also emphasised that the administration is focusing on keeping the river and ghats clean, alongside making comprehensive preparations to ensure a smooth experience for pilgrims. “We are visiting Akharas and making sure all necessary facilities are in place for the upcoming Amrit Snan,” he added. The second Amrit Snan, which will take place on Mauni Amavasya, holds deep religious importance as it is believed that on this day, nectar (amrit) rains from the sky, making the water spiritually potent. Bathing on this day is said to offer immense spiritual benefits, and it marks one of the most significant rituals of the entire Kumbh Mela. The Maha Kumbh, which began on January 14, is drawing millions of devotees who seek blessings and purification through a holy dip. The event is expected to be one of the largest religious gatherings in the world, with continued efforts by the administration to ensure the safety, cleanliness, and well-being of all attendees. This story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed, agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, reliability and data of the text. Mid-day management/mid-day.com reserves the sole right to alter, delete or remove (without notice) the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever
18 January,2025 09:57 AM IST | Prayagraj | IANSIndian poet and actor, Shailesh Lodha, steps onto the stage for his grand theatre debut in 'Dad's Girlfriend' on January 19 for an evening of laughter, love and rediscovery. Directed by the visionary Atul Satya Koushik, this eagerly awaited production will premiere at Shri Ram Centre in Delhi. Known for his unmatched wit and charismatic screen presence, Shailesh Lodha's transition to theatre promises an experience unlike any other. 'Dad's Girlfriend' weaves humor and emotion into an intricate tale of family, love, and second chances, striking a chord with audiences across generations. At the heart of the story is Animesh, a renowned author, professor, and speaker, whose professional success masks the complexities of his personal life. His return to India to reconnect with his estranged daughter Diya and her husband Kanav sets the stage for an irresistible blend of sharp comedy and touching family moments. Kanav, a theatre enthusiast, finds himself hilariously navigating his larger-than-life father-in-law’s visit, resulting in comedic chaos. The play takes an exciting turn with the entry of Avni – a devoted fan of Animesh who brings admiration, flirtation, and a dash of surprise into the household. Her frequent visits add fuel to Diya’s simmering jealousy, as Animesh juggles his role as a father, mentor, and unexpected object of affection. Seasoned actors Anumeha Jain, Megha Mathur and Aman Bajpai are joining Shailesh Lodha on stage and this team of four is going to give one of the most enriching theatrical experiences to the audience. "Dad's Girlfriend" is more than just a comedy. It offers a touching commentary on relationships in a fast-paced, digitally dominated world. Director Atul Satya Koushik shares, “This play highlights the delicate nuances of family bonds, the humorous conflicts that arise from generational gaps, and how love and laughter can mend even the most fractured relationships.” Reflecting on his theatrical debut, Shailesh Lodha adds, “Stepping into theatre has been a long-time aspiration and the next creative challenge I want to give to myself. I am thrilled to start this new chapter with a play that not only entertains but also resonates emotionally with audiences. I am sure they will leave the theatre with joy and warmth in their hearts.” Mark your calendars! Don’t miss the chance to witness Shailesh Lodha live on stage in “Dad's Girlfriend,” a production that promises laughter, love, and life lessons wrapped in an unforgettable evening of entertainment. Date: January 19, Time: 4 pm and 7 pmVenue: Shri Ram Centre, New Delhi
17 January,2025 06:50 PM IST | New Delhi | mid-day online correspondentQuick commerce platform Blinkit on Friday announced a temporary store at the grand Mahakumbh mela in Prayagraj that will provide all pooja needs and daily essentials in 10 minutes. “Today we've opened a temporary Blinkit store in Mahakumbh Mela, Prayagraj to serve pilgrims and tourists,” said Albinder Dhindsa, CEO, Blinkit, in a post on social media platform X. One can buy milk or fruits and vegetables for offering, as well as essential items like chargers, power banks, towels, and even blankets from the store. Dhindsa said the 100 sq ft store will be delivering essentials in Arail Tent City, Dome City, ITDC Luxury Camp, Devrakh, and other key areas of the Mahakumbh mela. “Our teams are ready to deliver specially curated assortment like pooja needs, milk, curd, fruits & vegetables (for self-consumption as well as for daan), chargers, power banks, towels, blankets, bedsheets and more. We’ve also got Triveni Sangam Jal bottles in stock,” he added. Mahakumbh 2025 is being held after 12 years and is a spiritual event drawing over 450 million devotees from around the world. The mega event will continue till February 26. The event will see crores of devotees descending the holy town of Prayagraj over the next two months to take a dip of faith and to ‘wash away their sins’. On Makar Sankranti alone, around 1.60 crore devotees are estimated to have taken a holy dip at the Sangam by noon, marking a grand start to the Mahakumbh 2025 celebrations. On Thursday, a 21-member foreign delegation from 10 countries also took a holy dip at the Sangam. According to industry estimates, brands are projected to invest Rs 1,800-Rs 2,000 crore in advertising campaigns across platforms, utilising artificial intelligence (AI)-driven themes, LED outdoor screens, virtual assistants, and mobile apps at the mega event. As per the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) estimates, the event is expected to generate a revenue of Rs 1.2 lakh crore for Uttar Pradesh. According to the government estimates, Mahakumbh may generate Rs 2 lakh crore in trade if each of 40 crore visitors spends an average of Rs 5,000. Companies from India as well as abroad are jostling for space to showcase their presence during the 45-day event. Also Read: Google celebrates Mahakumbh 2025 with rose petal shower on search screen This story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed, agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, reliability and data of the text. Mid-day management/mid-day.com reserves the sole right to alter, delete or remove (without notice) the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever
17 January,2025 04:43 PM IST | Prayagraj | IANSThe banks of the Ganga will resonate with music until the conclusion of the 'Sanskriti ka Sangam' program organised by the Department of Culture at Maha Kumbh Mela. On Thursday evening, singer Shankar Mahadevan presented his soulful renditions which regaled the devotees. Singers Kailash Kher, Kavita Krishnamurthy, Hariharan and others are also set to perform at this musical extravaganza in the upcoming days. Shankar Mahadevan sang 'Chalo Kumbh Chalein'. The program was inaugurated by deputy chief minister Keshav Prasad Maurya, who lit the ceremonial lamp to mark the beginning of the event. This was followed by a powerful rendition of Ganesh Vandana, which resonated throughout the Ganga Pandal on Thursday evening. The event was conducted in the presence of Mayor Ganesh Shankar Kesariwani, MLA Pooja Pal, along with other public representatives and officials. The 'Breathless' singer expressed his gratitude for being a part of such a sacred event and called it an honour to perform at Mahakumbh. He extended his thanks to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath for their vision and efforts in organizing the grand celebration. Singer Kailash Kher will also be performing at the 'Sanskriti Ka Sangam' program at Mahakumb. He also participated in the last Mahakumbh which was held in 2013. He is set to perform the closing ceremony of this music and cultural event. Ahead of his performance, the singer spoke to ANI and explained the importance of the festival and how its origins are rooted in Hindu mythology. "Mahakumbh is a historic festival. It represents the essence of Sanatan culture. I am extremely honoured to perform for devotees at the Sangam soon. Mahakumbh shows the real cultural and spiritual strength of India," said Kailash Kher. Kailash Kher will also take a holy dip at the Sangam. Urging people to attend Mahakumbh, Kher added, "Everyone should visit Mahakumbh. They will get to learn so many things there about Hindu culture." Similarly, singers Hariharan & Kavita Krishnamurthy are also set to perform at the upcoming programs at 'Sanskriti Ka Sangam.' As a majestic platform for Indian art, culture, and spirituality, Mahakumbh brings together diverse expressions of devotion through folk music, classical dance, and theatrical performances, offering an unparalleled spiritual experience to attendees. Mahakumbh, which began on January 13, will continue until February 26. The next key bathing dates include January 29 (Mauni Amavasya - Second Shahi Snan), February 3 (Basant Panchami - Third Shahi Snan), February 12 (Maghi Purnima), and February 26 (Maha Shivaratri). This story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed, agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, reliability and data of the text. Mid-day management/mid-day.com reserves the sole right to alter, delete or remove (without notice) the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever.
17 January,2025 03:15 PM IST | Prayagraj (Uttar Pradesh) | ANIMichelle Obama celebrates her 61st birthday today on January 17. Obama's legacy is synonymous with words like transformation, resilience and the power of being a changemaker. As an advocate for empowerment and social justice, she has dedicated her life to driving meaningful change and amplifying the voices of marginalised communities. Through her work, she has used her voice and platform to inspire generations of women to rise, lead, and make a difference. In celebration of her 61st birthday, we’ve curated a list of her most impactful audiobooks and films that continue to inspire and empower audiences globally. This list honours her enduring contribution to culture, activism, and the art of storytelling, offering invaluable insights that challenge us to reflect, grow, and live with purpose. Becoming'Becoming' is a powerful and intimate memoir by Michelle Obama, the first African American First Lady of the United States. Winner of numerous accolades, including the British Book Awards’ ‘Audiobook of the Year’ and a Grammy for ‘Best Spoken Word Album’, this deeply personal reflection chronicles Michelle's journey from her childhood on the South Side of Chicago to her time in the White House. With honesty, wit, and warmth, she shares the triumphs and challenges of balancing motherhood, work, and public life, all while advocating for women, girls, and healthier families. Becoming is a captivating story of resilience and defying expectations. Tune in for inspiration to embrace one’s journey with purpose and strength! Listen on: Audible The Light We CarryThis is the powerful, inspiring follow-up to the critically acclaimed, multi-million #1 bestselling memoir Becoming. 'In The Light We Carry', former First Lady Michelle Obama shares practical wisdom and personal reflections on staying hopeful and balanced in an uncertain world. She explores key questions many of us face—how to build lasting relationships, find strength in our differences, and navigate life's challenges. Drawing from her experiences as a mother, daughter, wife, friend, and First Lady, Obama offers tools for resilience, emphasising the power of lighting the way for others and discovering new pathways for growth. With candour and compassion, she tackles complex issues of race, gender, and visibility, encouraging readers to confront fear, embrace community, and live boldly. Fire up your device and get ready to be moved and inspired to reflect, find joy, and connect meaningfully in a turbulent world. Listen on: Audible The Light Podcast'Michelle Obama: The Light Podcast' goes beyond the book, offering exclusive personal stories and insights from her and her friends, as a part of the tour for her book, The Light We Carry. In this series, together they explore themes from The Light We Carry, including building meaningful relationships, navigating race and gender, overcoming obstacles, and lighting the way for others to unlock potential. With her trademark humour, openness and empathy, Michelle shares tools for thriving in today’s world alongside luminaries like Gayle King, Hoda Kotb, and David Letterman. Tune in for an uplifting and inspiring Audible Original. Listen on: Audible American Factory: A Conversation With The Obamas'American Factory: A Conversation with the Obamas' offers an insightful and thought-provoking discussion between former President Barack Obama, former First Lady Michelle Obama, and the filmmakers of American Factory, an Oscar-winning documentary. The conversation delves into the themes explored in the film, including the complexities of globalization, the changing dynamics of American manufacturing, and the challenges of bridging cultural and economic divides. With their unique perspectives, the Obamas provide valuable reflections on the film’s exploration of the American workforce and the broader implications of economic and social change. Watch on: Netflix Leave The World Behind 'Leave the World Behind', produced by Barack and Michelle Obama, is a gripping and thought-provoking thriller that explores themes of technology, survival, and the fragility of modern society. Based on the bestselling novel by Rumaan Alam, the story follows a family’s vacation gone awry when a mysterious crisis disrupts their world, forcing them to confront their deepest fears and uncertainties. With its timely exploration of social and environmental collapse, Leave the World Behind invites audiences to reflect on the delicate balance of our interconnected world, offering a tense and immersive experience that’s both compelling and unsettling. Watch on: Netflix Crip Camp'Crip Camp: A Disability Revolution', another production by Higher Ground, Barack and Michelle Obama’s production company, tells the inspiring and transformative story of a group of teenagers with disabilities who attended a groundbreaking summer camp in the 1970s. The documentary chronicles their journey from the camp to the heart of the disability rights movement, highlighting the activism and resilience that led to significant social and legislative change. With its powerful blend of personal stories and historical context, Crip Camp shines a light on the fight for accessibility, inclusion, and equality. Tune in for a compelling look at how a group of young people changed the course of history! Watch on: Netflix
17 January,2025 02:02 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentKangana Ranaut's highly anticipated film ‘Emergency’ has released in theatres today. The film explores a tumultuous period of Indira Gandhi's rule. This biographical political drama film directed and co-produced by the actress delves into the chaotic period of the Indian Emergency. With this exciting film hitting theatres, now is the perfect time to dive deeper into this pivotal era in Indian history. This listicle offers a curated selection of audiobooks and films that provide diverse perspectives on the Emergency, from scholarly analyses to gripping cinematic narratives. Whether you prefer the insightful commentary of historians or the dramatic portrayals of cinematic masterpieces, this collection will transport you back to a time of political upheaval and social unrest, offering valuable insights into the complexities of Indian democracy. Emergency ChroniclesGyan Prakash's 'Emergency Chronicles' offers a profound re-examination of India's 1975-77 Emergency, moving beyond the popular simplistic narratives. Prakash reveals a deeper story of a democracy grappling with its own contradictions. He argues that the Emergency was not a sudden aberration but a culmination of unresolved tensions between state power and popular aspirations. The unfulfilled promise of democratic transformation created a fertile ground for authoritarianism, as the regime resorted to extreme measures to maintain control, ultimately suspending fundamental rights and undermining the foundations of Indian democracy. Tune in to deep dive into the inner workings behind this turbulent time of Indian history. Listen on: Audible The Dramatic Decade'The Dramatic Decade' delves into the era that witnessed the nation grapple with the true essence of democracy. This period dramatically curtailed freedoms during the 1975-77 Emergency. The 1977 general elections marked a significant turning point, ushering in the era of coalition politics with the Janata Party, a diverse alliance of opposition forces, assuming power. This decade was formative for Pranab Mukherjee, who actively participated in these tumultuous events. Drawing upon his unique perspective as a key player and keen observer, Mukherjee offers invaluable insights into this complex era. He challenges conventional narratives, particularly regarding the calls for Indira Gandhi's resignation during the Emergency. Fire up your device and tune in as the former President raises crucial questions. Listen on: Audible How Prime Ministers DecideNeerja Chowdhury's "How Prime Ministers Decide" offers a compelling look into the inner workings of Indian political leadership. This audiobook, written by an award-winning journalist with decades of experience covering Indian politics, delves beyond the headlines to examine how pivotal decisions shaping the nation's destiny were made. Chowdhury analyzes the decision-making styles of six Indian Prime Ministers through the lens of six landmark events, including Indira Gandhi's return to power after her defeat after the Emergency in 1977. Drawing upon extensive research, including hundreds of interviews with Prime Ministers, key political figures, bureaucrats, and insiders, Chowdhury provides a unique and revealing perspective on the complexities of governance in India. "How Prime Ministers Decide" is a must-read for anyone seeking a deeper understanding of modern Indian politics and the factors that shape the nation's trajectory - the Emergency being a crucial one! Listen on: Audible While there are audiobooks, there are also films that have been made in the past about it and focus entirely on the period: Indu Sarkar 'Indu Sarkar' is a 2017 Indian Hindi-language political thriller directed by Madhur Bhandarkar. Set against the backdrop of India's 1975-77 Emergency, the film explores the moral dilemmas faced by Indu, a woman navigating the turbulent political climate. While her husband seeks to capitalize on the Emergency to advance his career, Indu adheres to her moral compass, leading her down a different and potentially dangerous path. The film features a stellar cast, including Kirti Kulhari, Neil Nitin Mukesh, and Anupam Kher. Tune in to get a sneak peek into the impact this pivotal moment in history had on the common man. Listen: Amazon Prime BaadshahoPlatform: Disney+ Hotstar'Baadshaho' is a 2017 Indian Hindi-language action-adventure film directed by Milan Luthria. Set during the turbulent Emergency period of 1975-77, the film features an ensemble cast including Ajay Devgn, Emraan Hashmi, Ileana D'Cruz, Vidyut Jammwal, Esha Gupta, and Sanjay Mishra. "Baadshaho" follows the story of Maharani Gitanjali who struggles to maintain control of her wealth as a group of individuals plot against her amidst the backdrop of political unrest from the Emergency. Tune in for an exciting thriller with the Emergency shaping the story’s narrative.
17 January,2025 11:55 AM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentADVERTISEMENT
