The Himalayan Writing Retreat makes UAE debut with The Shekhar Kapur Masterclass in Abu Dhabi
The prestigious Himalayan Writing Retreat (HWR), known for nurturing storytellers and writers across India, is all set to make its much-anticipated debut in the UAE. Launching its first-ever course in the region, HWR proudly presents 'The Shekhar Kapur Masterclass on Stories and Storytelling', to be held at the luxurious Al Wathba Desert Resort in Abu Dhabi from March 23 to 25, 2025.
Following immense success and growing interest from the Middle East, the Himalayan Writing Retreat is expanding its footprint beyond India. "We are delighted to make our first foray into the Middle East with Shekhar Kapur. Over the years, we've witnessed significant interest in creative writing from this region, and it felt like the perfect time to bring our courses to the UAE," said Chetan Mahajan, co-founder of the Himalayan Writing Retreat. "Starting 2025, we plan to offer more on-ground courses here and invite many celebrated names from the literary world. We are also open to partnerships with like-minded organisations in the Gulf."
The highlight of this debut event is none other than Shekhar Kapur—acclaimed filmmaker, storyteller, and recipient of numerous accolades including the BAFTA award, a Golden Globe nomination, and the prestigious Padma Bhushan. Sharing his experience of working with HWR, Kapur commented, "Working with the Himalayan Writing Retreat was a truly fulfilling experience. It is where teaching becomes learning, where storytelling becomes story-sharing. I'm excited to be part of their first workshop in the UAE and look forward to meaningful exchanges with participants."
The Shekhar Kapur Masterclass is a transformative experience that transcends conventional formats. It is designed for anyone looking to develop a story—whether for business, fiction, personal growth, or media. Dr Vandita Dubey, co-founder of HWR, emphasised, "Shekhar is unique in how he listens, reflects, and guides. From Masoom to Mr. India to Bandit Queen and Elizabeth, he has navigated genres and broken stereotypes. Yet, in the Masterclass, he focuses entirely on the participants' stories, helping them elevate their narratives."
Participants from past sessions echo the same sentiment. Ameen Haque, founder of Storywallahs, who attended the Masterclass in 2024, shared, "Shekhar did not use a single slide or show clips from his films. Yet, he took us deep into storytelling, making us reflect on life and our own narratives—all with remarkable ease."
The Masterclass in Abu Dhabi is limited to just 12 participants, ensuring a highly personalised and immersive experience.
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Broadcast Pro
07-05-2025
- Broadcast Pro
MPTS 2025 reveals line-up of speakers, AI focus and new features
This year includes an enlarged AI Media Zone within a new gallery area, showcasing a growing number of AI-focused exhibitors and providing enriched networking opportunities for a more immersive visitor experience. The Media Production and Technology Show (MPTS) 2025 is set to return to Olympia's Grand Hall in London on May 14–15 with a line-up of keynote speakers, masterclasses, expert-led sessions and an expanded AI focus designed to meet growing industry demand. Positioned as the UK's premier event for the media and entertainment industry, MPTS 2025 builds on the momentum of its 2024 edition with an even broader offering, including a newly introduced, ticketed AI Training programme developed in collaboration with Future Media Concepts (FMC). The programme includes exclusive conversations with actor and documentary filmmaker Ross Kemp, who will reflect on his career and the challenges of filming in high-risk zones. Oscar and BAFTA-nominated editor Eddie Hamilton will give audiences insight into his editorial process ahead of the release of Mission: Impossible – The Final Reckoning. Other notable names set to take the stage include former NFL player and broadcaster Jason Bell, as well as key creatives from Strictly Come Dancing who will share behind-the-scenes stories on producing the hit show. Industry-focused sessions will anchor the event's schedule with 'State of the Nation' panels dissecting developments across production, post-production, audio, broadcast technology, virtual production and AI. Independent TV executives will assess the evolving production landscape, while leading commissioners from BBC, MTV Entertainment and UKTV will guide attendees on pitching factual entertainment content. For those focused on sustainable production, BAFTA's Albert initiative will provide actionable steps on reducing carbon footprints in screen projects. Broadcast and post-production sessions will tackle pressing technical and creative trends, from cloud infrastructure and AI integration to the future of 5G and immersive media. VFX experts from studios like Bluebolt and Union VFX will offer exclusive masterclasses on crafting visual effects for high-profile titles such as Nosferatu and The Tattooist of Auschwitz. Meanwhile, the audio programme will explore innovations in immersive sound design and the application of AI in scoring and post-sound, with panels featuring the composers behind Miss Austen, The Tourist and Black Doves. AI plays a central role in this year's event. Responding to surging interest in artificial intelligence, MPTS has expanded its gallery-level exhibition space to include a significantly larger AI Media Zone. Here, attendees can explore interactive demonstrations, attend debates on copyright and ethics, and learn how AI is being used to reimagine content creation. A highlight of the AI discussions includes a BBC- and ITN-led keynote examining how broadcasters are incorporating AI into their creative processes. An exclusive case study on the podcast Virtually Parkinson will showcase how the late Sir Michael Parkinson was recreated using AI, sparking debate around the ethical dimensions of synthetic media. The virtual production track will explore how this rapidly maturing sector is reshaping film, television and sports broadcasting. Experts will address the implications for workforce development, production workflows, and sustainability, with a dedicated BAFTA case study highlighting innovation in live sports. MPTS 2025 will also host the second edition of the Media Technology Conference, presented in partnership with SMPTE. Open to all attendees, the conference will provide a deep dive into pivotal technologies, including 3D, ST2110, and the future of digital terrestrial and OTT broadcasting. Beyond seminars and panel discussions, the show offers hands-on learning through a host of technical demonstrations. The Blackmagic Design Seminar Theatre will feature sessions on camera technology, post-production, and live broadcast innovations. Attendees can also engage with a dedicated AI Training Programme, covering everything from automation in editing to the use of AI in VFX and storytelling—while addressing the ethical questions these technologies raise. Event director Charlotte Wheeler said: 'We are thrilled to unveil this incredible seminar programme for MPTS 2025, an event that continues to be the leading platform for innovation, discussion, and collaboration in the media production and technology sector. This year's programme has been carefully curated to address the most pressing challenges and exciting opportunities facing our industry, featuring an exceptional lineup of speakers, thought leaders, and industry pioneers. Whether you are an established professional or a new voice in the industry, our sessions are designed to inspire, inform, and spark meaningful conversations.' MPTS 2025 has an expanded presence on the gallery level where visitors will find the new AI Media Zone, an additional café and networking area, the Blackmagic Design Seminar Theatre, and the brand new AI Training series organised in partnership with Future Media Concepts (FMC). Wheeler added: 'MPTS 2025's expanded gallery level is a testament to the show's commitment to innovation, education, and industry growth. With these exciting new additions, the event promises to be an unmissable experience for professionals looking to stay ahead in the evolving media landscape. 'We look forward to welcoming attendees from across the sector to engage with expert panels, hands-on demonstrations, and exclusive keynote talks. The conversations we foster here will help shape the next chapter of media production and technology. We can't wait to see you at MPTS 2025.'
Gulf News
20-04-2025
- Gulf News
‘Unique experience': UAE Christians celebrate Easter with prayers, feast
Dubai: Christians in the UAE celebrated Easter with heartfelt prayers, gatherings, sumptuous feasts, outings, and activities like Easter egg hunts. Celebrating the resurrection of Jesus Christ, thousands of community members joined prayer services held at churches on Easter Sunday. Making the celebration more joyful, Dubai's RTA offered free bus services over the Easter weekend. For Elissa Serrano and her husband Nervin, the day provided a moment to reflect on the meaning of Easter. 'This Easter has been so special for me and my family. We started the day with a cozy breakfast – everyone gathered around the table, laughing, chatting, and just enjoying each other's company. After that, we went to church, which really helped us reflect on the meaning of Easter and feel connected in a deeper way.' Later, Elissa and Nervin arranged an Easter egg hunt for their children, Evanca, Nola, and Najeelah. 'We had an Easter egg hunt for the kids, which was so much fun to watch. They were running around with huge smiles on their faces. Later, we baked some treats together, filling the house with the smell of cookies and warmth. Honestly, it's been such a beautiful day – simple, joyful, and full of love,' she said. 'Global gathering of faith' Elizabeth Thomas and her friend Meryl G, tourists from India, were swept up in Dubai's vibrant festive atmosphere. 'It has been one of the most unique holiday experiences we've ever had,' Elizabeth noted. The duo spent their days exploring the city, enchanted by the themed decorations, twinkling lights, and larger-than-life installations across malls and public spaces. 'What stood out was the multicultural mix of people in the church. It truly felt like a global gathering of faith,' said Meryl. This Easter, they underlined, will always be special for the memories they have created in a city that so seamlessly brings people and cultures together. 'After observing Lent, we broke our fast with a delicious meal at a well-known restaurant – another tick off our Dubai bucket list,' said Meryl, as they ended the day with a visit to the majestic Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque. 'It felt like the perfect ending to a week filled with culture, food, faith, and friendship,' Elizabeth underscored. Easter joy, expecting hope Amid joyful celebrations with friends and relatives in Abu Dhabi, Serin Kuruvila and his wife, Mamatha Joseph, who is four months pregnant, are looking forward to next year's Easter, which holds special meaning for their growing family. 'God willing, we'll be celebrating next year with our newborn. Also, next year's Easter falls on April 5, which is my birthday,' said Serin, who was born on April 5, 1996, a Good Friday. 'Sometimes, my birthday even lands on Maundy Thursday,' he said.
Broadcast Pro
16-04-2025
- Broadcast Pro
Reality show ‘Million Dollar Listing: UAE' set to return for season two
Image Nation Abu Dhabi and StarzPlay kick off production this month on the hit real estate reality series. Following the success of its debut season, Million Dollar Listing: UAE is making a return with a second season, promising more glitz, drama and multimillion-dollar deals. The reality series, co-produced by Image Nation Abu Dhabi and StarzPlay, has officially begun filming, with new episodes set to premiere later this year. This StarzPlay Original, exclusively licensed from NBCUniversal Formats, will expand to a 12-episode run, diving deeper into the high-stakes world of luxury real estate in the UAE. Set against the backdrops of Abu Dhabi and Dubai, Season Two will once again spotlight the country's booming property market and the elite brokers who drive it. Veteran realtor and Executive Producer Ben Bandari returns to lead the cast alongside Riad Gohar and Rami Wahood. Joining them are newcomers Sarah Serhan and Mai Khaled, whose arrival is expected to stir up fresh rivalries and bold negotiations. The upcoming season also features partnerships with leading developers Aldar and DAMAC, reinforcing the show's close ties to the region's luxury real estate landscape. Ben Ross, CEO of Image Nation Abu Dhabi, said: 'At Image Nation Abu Dhabi, we are committed to producing high-quality, locally relevant content that resonates with audiences across the region. The success of Million Dollar Listing: UAE demonstrates the growing appetite for premium, homegrown reality formats and we are proud to bring a second season to viewers. By showcasing the UAE's dynamic real estate market and diverse talent, this series continues to reinforce the country's position as a global media and entertainment hub.' Maaz Sheikh, CEO of StarzPlay, added: 'The success of the first season of Million Dollar Listing: UAE, highlights StarzPlay's commitment to delivering premium, locally relevant content. As the UAE's only homegrown entertainment platform of its kind, we're excited to bring our audience a second season with even higher stakes, bigger deals, and more compelling personalities. Million Dollar Listing: UAE, a StarzPlay Original, not only entertains but also showcases the dynamism and ambition of the UAE to viewers around the world.' Season one not only broke viewership records on StarzPlay but also gained international traction after being picked up by global streaming platforms Hayu and Roku. Its rise up the global streaming charts has heightened anticipation for Season Two. Produced by Navigation Films, the show also features Emmy-nominated and BAFTA-winning producer Marc Lorber as Executive Producer. With the cameras rolling and expectations high, fans can expect an even more immersive look into the UAE's elite property market, from jaw-dropping homes to behind-the-scenes power plays.
