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SCREENING THE ‘PLAY.’

Drama explores different genres and stays loyal to a stage, but CinePlay is a new platform. FWD gets into a conversation with the founders of CinePlay, Subodh Maskara and Nandita Das.

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Photos: CinePlay

Though it might not be grammatically correct, it would be inevitably true to say that “naatak” is an “akam” of a particular place. Naatakam in actuality is the story of the land. They are stories of small people and land, put in front of a larger world. Plays or naataks in India have gone through dynamic changes in the past few years. From street plays (nukkad naatak) to plays on stage for a larger audience to professional stage plays, the mannerism of plays has gone through a metamorphosis.

Between the Lines

The word metamorphosis is a very subjective term. The change could be like a germinal growth in people or the change brought by thin lines between people dancing in ecstasy. It is this line between Shekhar (Subodh Maskara) and Maya (Nandita Das) that changes in the drama, Between the Lines. Directed by Nandita Das, Between The Lines is a contemporary play set in urban India, where well-educated and affluent couples find themselves caught between modernity and tradition. Maya and Shekhar are lawyers who also happen to be married to each other for ten years. Shekhar is a high-profile criminal lawyer while Maya balances work and life, drafting routine contracts for a law firm. As destiny would have it, they end up arguing on opposite sides of a crimi-nal trial. That results in unexpected consequences in their personal and professional lives. There were other plays too which were brilliant in their ways like Mohan Rakesh’s, Adhe Adhure, Mahesh Dattani’s Dance Like a Man, Siddharth Kumar’s The Interview and Vikram Papadia’s Bombay Talkies. I sat on my couch with my legs and hands gripped as I watched theses exceptionally scripted and executed dramas streaming online on my system.

Nandita Das and Subodh Maskara

Nandita Das and Subodh Maskara

 

Cine Play

All these plays are part of CinePlay, which is a ‘new genre’ of entertainment, based in Mumbai. It is a cinematic experience inspired by theatrical performances. No more economical, geographical and lingual issues. CinePlay is a brain child of the dynamic entrepreneur Subodh Maskara, and much acclaimed and talented actress, Nandita Das. It is a noble attempt to archive iconic plays, so that the future generations would get to experience the stories and performances.In a conversation with Mr. Subodh Maskara and Mrs. Nandita Das, they talk about how CinePlay. When asked about CinePlay took its birth, Mr. Subodh Maskara answers, “Nandita offered me an opportunity to work in a play, and I said ‘yes’. We did the play, Between The Lines, which was very successful. We did the play in most of the countries, but we couldn’t do it in many places. That was when the idea of CinePlay was born. We have seven production plays that have been doing pretty good abroad. Our library is growing and so is our audience.” It is true to say that there are many issues related to theatrical performances like costs, logistics, economics, etc.When asked to talk about his corporate experience being a help to CinePlay, Mr. Maskara remarked, “Every concept is a mix of creative and business idea. While, there is a lot of creative funds that we have, there is a hardcore business in the back end which works to support creativity. Working in the corporate world allowed me to build a team and understand the hard work that goes behind keeping a company.”

Nandita Das

Nandita Das

Politics Behind plays

“We like to select plays across genres, making sure there is something for everybody. From classics and comedy to contemporary. Plays that have stood the test of time or captured an important moment in history or speaks about relevant issues. Plays that entertain us, makes us laugh or cry, plays that engage us. The play should have a strong script and strong text, in which the actors have created a magical performance. CinePlay is creating a new revenue stream for theatre groups that often complain that the medium is a dying art, no longer commercially viable. After deducting the cost of production, the CinePlay’s share of the profit is shared with the theatre group,” commented Ms. Nandita when asked about the politics that goes behind choosing plays.

The Indian Theatre

It is observed that Indian theatre has a poor track record of engrossing the audience. To which Mr. Subodh commented, “There is a bad economics in the theatre, people do not spend much time in making good productions. I am hoping CinePlay will create a wider audience that can give a better economics to the theatre. I hope it helps people invest more and time and quality in the theatre.” The best part about Indian drama is that even today it is very overwhelmingly raw. With dramas being played from ‘stage’ to ‘screen’, the chances of it losing its charm is pretty high. Ms. Nandita added, “As all the plays have already been performed and have a particular style that works for theatre, it is very challenging to adapt it and yet not take away the original work of art. While acting on the stage, actors tend to use the entire body to enhance their performances. Most of the times, while acting for the camera, actors have to tone down as their performances start to speak from within. It is a very intimate experience and cannot be or rather should not be compared to any other form.”With Subodh Maskara and Nandita Das; of the plays that were streaming online too. With five productions completed and few other works in the pipeline, the CinePlay aims to bring strong stories from the theatre to the world in a cinematic form.

 

 

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Young Initiative

What is the Vantara Project ?

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Reliance Industries and the Reliance Foundation introduced the “Vantara” programme (also known as the “Star of the Forest” programme) on February 26, 2024. Its main focus will be on the treatment, care, rescue, and rehabilitation of hurt, abused, threatened, or vulnerable animals in India and beyond. Anant Ambani, a director on the boards of both the Reliance Foundation and RIL, is the creator of the programme. 

Vantara (Star of the Forest) was founded on a deep philosophy that blends the accuracy of contemporary science and technology with the ancient Indian attitude of compassion, or “seva.” It is an expression of the moral duty to protect all living things, motivated by deeply ingrained Hindu traditions that maintain that serving animals is equivalent to serving the divine.

Vantara has demonstrated its dedication by organizing the rescue and rehabilitation of more than 200 elephants and numerous other animals from dangerous situations, offering these animals a safe habitat. The initiative extends beyond the act of rescue. It also includes putting key species like crocodiles, leopards, and rhinos through rehabilitation programmes to ensure their survival and well-being.

Vantara’s cutting-edge veterinary hospital, a marvel of contemporary medical technology, is the beating heart of the company’s medical endeavors. With its six specialist surgical centers, endoscopic robotic surgery technologies, and MRI and CT scan machines, the hospital is the best place for animal healthcare. The clinic, which fits damaged animals with prosthesis and helps them recover their health, is at the vanguard of medical innovation.

“The zoological park will be opened to the public soon, allowing people to witness our efforts in wildlife conservation and the sophisticated care we provide,” Anant Ambani said in a statement regarding the hospital’s capabilities and Vantara’s future ambitions.

However, Vantara’s vision goes beyond its confines. Ambani unveiled a bold proposal to transform animal welfare in India. “With training, capacity building, and the improvement of animal care infrastructure, Vantara aims to partner with the Zoo Authority of India and other relevant government organizations to improve the quality of all the 150+ zoos in India,” he said. This project, which emphasizes the value of comprehensive care and animal welfare, is poised to establish a new benchmark for zoos across the country.

In addition to being a haven for wildlife, vantara symbolizes optimism in the struggle against environmental deterioration and our responsibility to protect the planet’s rare biodiversity. Vantara asks us all to participate in a story that celebrates life in all its forms as it gets ready to open to the public.

 

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Cover Story

Insta – Glam : Best Fashion from Aparna Thomas

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Instagram has developed into a busy runway in the fast-paced world of fashion, where influencers like Aparna Thomas showcase their own looks, creating trends and motivating millions of others. Aparna Thomas has enthralled audiences with her varied and imaginative ensembles thanks to her outstanding taste and passion for fashion. Let’s delve into some of her best fashion looks that have left a lasting impression on fashion enthusiasts around the globe.

Effortless Glamour

Aparna Thomas looks sophisticated and alluring in this beautiful rainbow saree by Fitting Room Couture, styled by talented Sabarinath. Her look as completed by jewels from Pure Allure

Shimmer Glam

How to add a touch of glamour to any occasion without sacrificing comfort or style, just add some Shimmer. Aparna looks gorgeous  in the stunning golden sequined flared dress by D’Roz for Christmas theme shoot.

Chic Style

Aparna looks casual chic with urban sophistication with her street style look in this green dress by Urbanic

Regal Beauty

Aparna is a natural at stealing the show; she looks magnificent in her exquisite blue saree that Sabarinath styled. The saree comes from Luxurion World. 

Mythical Magic

Aparna looks stunning in an embellished saree by T & M Signature thanks to her excellent sense of style. The blouse features soft and elegant hues with delicate foliate motifs and elaborate crisscross patterns. The MOD Signature jewels completed the entire look. 

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Cover Story

Explore the Hidden Gems: Must-Visit Places on Lakshadweep

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Lakshadweep, meaning “a hundred thousand islands” in Sanskrit, is a mesmerizing archipelago nestled in the Arabian Sea. With its pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant marine life, Lakshadweep is a paradise for travelers seeking serenity and natural beauty. Lakshadweep offers activities for all types of visitors, including nature lovers, water sports enthusiasts, and beach bums. These are the top  activities to do in Lakshadweep when visiting.

The only ways to get to Lakshadweep are by air or boat. There are frequent flights from Kochi and Bangalore to the single airport, which is located on Agatti Island. Another option is to travel by ferry from Kochi, which takes between 18 to 20 hours. To enter Lakshadweep, visitors must get a special permit, which can be obtained online or through the tourism department of Lakshadweep. When the weather is nice and sunny, from October to March is the ideal time to visit Lakshadweep. Since there aren’t many resorts or guesthouses in Lakshadweep, it’s crucial to reserve your lodging well in advance.

Agatti Island:

Agatti, the gateway to Lakshadweep, welcomes you with its breathtaking beauty. The island boasts stunning coral reefs, making it a haven for snorkelers and divers. Take a stroll along the shimmering white sands or indulge in water sports like kayaking and windsurfing. Don’t miss the opportunity to witness the spectacular sunset painting the sky in hues of orange and pink.

Minicoy Island:

Experience the rich cultural heritage of Lakshadweep on Minicoy Island. The island is renowned for its traditional Maldivian-influenced culture, evident in its architecture, cuisine, and customs. Explore the charming villages adorned with colorful houses and visit the iconic Lighthouse built by the British. Don’t miss the chance to savor authentic Maldivian cuisine and witness captivating cultural performances.

Kadmat Island:

For those craving solitude and tranquility, Kadmat Island is the perfect escape. This serene island is renowned for its untouched beaches fringed with swaying palms. Dive into the azure waters to explore the vibrant marine life teeming with colorful fish and coral formations. Relax under the shade of coconut trees and savor fresh seafood delicacies served by local vendors.

Amini Beach:

If you’re searching for quiet tourist destinations in Lakshadweep, Amini Beach is a great choice. This beach is well-known on Amini Island because of its coral sandstone surface. Adventure sports like as snorkelling, scuba diving, reef walking, and kayaking are available for you to try. Amini Beach is a great place to unwind and spend the day drinking cocktails and soaking up the sun.

Bangaram Island:

Dubbed as the jewel of Lakshadweep, Bangaram Island is a postcard-perfect destination. With its powdery white sands and emerald lagoons, it’s a paradise for beach lovers. Spend your days basking in the sun, snorkeling amidst the coral gardens, or simply unwinding in a hammock under the shade of a palm tree. Indulge in a romantic beach picnic as you watch the stars illuminate the night sky.

Lakshadweep beckons travelers with its pristine beauty, diverse marine life, and warm hospitality. Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or cultural immersion, the islands offer a myriad of experiences to cherish. Explore these must-visit places on Lakshadweep and create memories that will last a lifetime.

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