Latest news with #Cultural
The Wire
4 days ago
- Entertainment
- The Wire
'Harmony in Diversity: Promoting Cultural Exchange Through Music'
Music serves as a universal language that transcends borders, fostering cultural exchange by connecting people through shared rhythms, melodies, and emotions. It acts as a bridge, allowing individuals from diverse backgrounds to explore and appreciate each other's traditions, values, and histories. Festivals, concerts, and collaborative performances bring artists and audiences together, creating spaces for dialogue and mutual understanding. For instance, genres like jazz, reggae, or classical music have evolved through cross-cultural influences, blending distinct styles to create something new and unifying. By sharing music, communities celebrate their unique identities while embracing the richness of global diversity, promoting empathy and harmony in an increasingly interconnected world. The initiative "Harmony in Diversity: Promoting Cultural Exchange Through Music" has earned global acclaim for its innovative approach to uniting diverse musical traditions, particularly between India and Norway. Praised by outlets like The Guardian and BBC Culture as a "powerful symbol of cross-cultural dialogue," it has been lauded by UNESCO and the Norwegian Culture Centre for fostering artistic collaboration and mutual respect. Audiences on X have celebrated the emotional resonance of performances blending Indian ragas with Norwegian orchestral elements, calling them 'a celebration of humanity's shared spirit.' Musicians and cultural leaders alike commend the initiative, led by figures like Shahroz Ali Khan, for creating a groundbreaking platform that transcends borders and sets a model for global cultural unity through upcoming concerts in Delhi and Norway Elizaveta Agrafenina: The Norwegian Soprano Building Bridges Between Cultures Through Music In a vibrant celebration of musical diplomacy, the distinguished Norwegian soprano is emerging as a beacon of cultural harmony, seamlessly uniting East and West through her artistry. Her voice, often praised as 'enchanting, resonant, and profoundly moving,' captivates global audiences, weaving together centuries-old traditions with a timeless grace that transcends borders. Born in Yaroslavl, Russia, and nurtured in Norway, her musical journey began with early choral and solo performances, followed by a youthful exploration of rock and metal before embracing her true passion for classical music. Her refined skills, honed at prestigious institutions like the Sibelius Academy in Finland, the University of Agder in Norway, and the Conservatory of Amsterdam under esteemed mentors such as Sasja Hunnego, Pierre Mak, and Jan-Paul Grijpink, have solidified her reputation as a luminous talent fostering cross-cultural unity. Since her operatic debut in 2010 as Belinda in Dido and Aeneas, the soprano has portrayed iconic roles such as Susanna in Le Nozze di Figaro, Despina in Così fan tutte, Fenena in Nabucco, and the dual role of Sandmännchen/Taumann in Hansel und Gretel. Her performances with the Young Artist Program at Bergen National Opera, alongside the Bergen Philharmonic Orchestra and Edvard Grieg Vocal Ensemble, have established her as a leading voice of her generation. Beyond opera, the soprano shines in chamber music and Lied, interpreting works by composers like Grieg, Shostakovich, Schoenberg, and Weinberg. Her performances have graced prestigious venues such as Muziekgebouw (Netherlands), Grieghallen (Norway), and the Helsinki Music Centre, under conductors like Masaaki Suzuki, Frédéric Chaslin, Ed Spanjaard, and Matthew Rowe. A New Cultural Chapter: India Meets Norway Through Music In a recent milestone for cross-cultural collaboration, Mr. Shahroz Ali Khan, in partnership with the Norwegian Culture Centre and cultural advisors Jon Vikan and Olga Vikan, organized a visit to the soprano's performance in Norway. The delegation, including Indian celebrities and media personalities, was warmly welcomed, and the performance left a profound impact. This event marks a significant moment, as it reflects growing Indian interest in Norwegian classical music and European musical traditions. 'It's heartening to see Indian culture embracing and enjoying European classical music so naturally,' said Shahroz Ali Khan. 'This is a strong symbol of cultural exchange and just the beginning.' Mr. Khan announced an upcoming collaborative concert featuring Indian and Norwegian artists, set to take place in Delhi later this year, with a reciprocal performance in Norway the following month. These events aim to harmonize diverse musical traditions, fostering deeper artistic partnerships between the two nations. 'This initiative is not just about music—it's about unity, mutual respect, and building cultural bridges,' he added. Through her artistry, the soprano continues to inspire, weaving a global tapestry of collaboration, creativity, and shared human experience. A Melodic Ambassador of Cultural Harmony: Elizaveta Agrafenina Elizaveta Agrafenina, the Norwegian soprano, is a shining example of music's power to transcend borders and unite cultures. With her enchanting voice and captivating stage presence, she has been building bridges between East and West, fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation of diverse musical traditions. Elizaveta's commitment to fostering cultural harmony is truly inspiring. She is a role model for aspiring musicians and a testament to the power of music to bring people together. Her performances are a reminder that, despite our differences, we can come together and appreciate the beauty of our shared human experience. Elizaveta Agrafenina is a luminous talent, shining bright in the world of opera. Her music is a gift to audiences worldwide, and her dedication to cultural exchange is a beacon of hope for a more harmonious world. We look forward to seeing her continue to inspire and unite people through her extraordinary talent. (Disclaimer: The above press release comes to you under an arrangement with NRDPL and PTI takes no editorial responsibility for the same.). PTI PWR
News18
4 days ago
- Entertainment
- News18
Harmony in Diversity: Promoting Cultural Exchange Through Music
Music serves as a universal language that transcends borders, fostering cultural exchange by connecting people through shared rhythms, melodies, and emotions. It acts as a bridge, allowing individuals from diverse backgrounds to explore and appreciate each other's traditions, values, and histories. Festivals, concerts, and collaborative performances bring artists and audiences together, creating spaces for dialogue and mutual understanding. For instance, genres like jazz, reggae, or classical music have evolved through cross-cultural influences, blending distinct styles to create something new and unifying. By sharing music, communities celebrate their unique identities while embracing the richness of global diversity, promoting empathy and harmony in an increasingly interconnected world. The initiative 'Harmony in Diversity: Promoting Cultural Exchange Through Music" has earned global acclaim for its innovative approach to uniting diverse musical traditions, particularly between India and Norway. Praised by outlets like The Guardian and BBC Culture as a 'powerful symbol of cross-cultural dialogue," it has been lauded by UNESCO and the Norwegian Culture Centre for fostering artistic collaboration and mutual respect. Audiences on X have celebrated the emotional resonance of performances blending Indian ragas with Norwegian orchestral elements, calling them 'a celebration of humanity's shared spirit." Musicians and cultural leaders alike commend the initiative, led by figures like Shahroz Ali Khan, for creating a groundbreaking platform that transcends borders and sets a model for global cultural unity through upcoming concerts in Delhi and Norway Elizaveta Agrafenina: The Norwegian Soprano Building Bridges Between Cultures Through Music In a vibrant celebration of musical diplomacy, the distinguished Norwegian soprano is emerging as a beacon of cultural harmony, seamlessly uniting East and West through her artistry. Her voice, often praised as 'enchanting, resonant, and profoundly moving," captivates global audiences, weaving together centuries-old traditions with a timeless grace that transcends borders. Born in Yaroslavl, Russia, and nurtured in Norway, her musical journey began with early choral and solo performances, followed by a youthful exploration of rock and metal before embracing her true passion for classical music. Her refined skills, honed at prestigious institutions like the Sibelius Academy in Finland, the University of Agder in Norway, and the Conservatory of Amsterdam under esteemed mentors such as Sasja Hunnego, Pierre Mak, and Jan-Paul Grijpink, have solidified her reputation as a luminous talent fostering cross-cultural unity.
The Hindu
16-07-2025
- Entertainment
- The Hindu
Culture Minister launches logo for Kerala film policy conclave
The proposed policy for the Malayalam film industry, to be presented at the Kerala film policy conclave in August, will address all the long-time demands and pertinent issues, including women's safety, implementation of labour laws and the formal recognition as an industry, Minister for Cultural Affairs Saji Cherian has said. Addressing a press conference here on Wednesday to announce the conclave and launch its logo, he said that the film policy will be formulated based on the discussions at the conclave. Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan will inaugurate the two-day conclave at a function to be held at the Sankaranarayanan Thampi Hall inside the Legislative Assembly complex in Thiruvananthapuram on August 2. The conclave, which will comprehensively discuss various aspects of cinema, will be attended by representatives of the 17 States that have formulated the film policy, representatives of the National Film Development Corporation, Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, Union Ministry of Culture and Tourism, personalities from the Indian film industry as well as international experts, various film organisations and experts in the fields of labour and law. Mr. Cherian said that comprehensive discussions will be held on various issues related to the film sector. The conclave will have nine sessions over two days. After the inaugural session on the first day, five sessions will be conducted. All these sessions will be held simultaneously at five different venues. There will be a plenary session in the afternoon in which moderators from each discussion will present reports based on their discussions. This will be followed by an open forum at 4.30 p.m., in which representatives can raise questions related to the reports. Ideas emerging from the discussions will be codified and incorporated into the film policy. Wide-ranging process 'Such a wide-ranging, democratic process to formulate a policy for a film industry is unprecedented. The policy will be a comprehensive one in which every department of cinema will be considered and the concerns of every person will be addressed,' said Mr. Cherian. Cultural Affairs department Additional Chief Secretary Rajan N. Khobragade, Cultural Affairs department Director Divya S. Iyer, Kerala State Chalachitra Academy chairperson Premkumar, Kerala State Cultural Activists Welfare Fund Board chairperson K. Madhupal, Kerala State Film Development Corporation managing director P.S. Priyadarshan and Kerala State Chalachitra Academy secretary C. Ajoy were present.
Time of India
14-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Time of India
City To Host First-Ever Khanjiri Bhajan Contest From July 15-18
Nagpur: The city is set to witness a unique musical milestone as it hosts the first-ever competitive Khanjiri Bhajan Contest this week, bringing to the stage the vibrant devotional art form closely associated with Vidarbha's spiritual and cultural ethos. Tired of too many ads? go ad free now Organised under the banner of Khasdar Cultural Festival Committee, Vidarbha-level Khanjiri Bhajan competition will be held on July 16 and 17 at Santaji Sabhagruh in Sakkardara, starting each day from 8am. The grand finale is scheduled for July 18, culminating in a prize distribution ceremony to be presided over by Union minister Nitin Gadkari. The contest seeks to revive and celebrate the tradition of Khanjiri Bhajan — devotional singing accompanied by the small, handheld percussion instrument called khanjiri. This folk art form gained prominence through the legacy of Rashtra Sant Tukdoji Maharaj, whose stirring bhajans were not only expressions of faith but also vehicles for social reform and national awakening. His performances with the khanjiri inspired countless followers, embedding this art deeply into Vidarbha's cultural fabric. Addressing a press conference on Monday, Prof Anil Sole, president of the Khasdar Cultural Festival Committee, said the event will not only showcase musical talent but also echo the social reform messages of Tukdoji Maharaj's compositions. "Participating groups are required to perform two bhajans — based on traditional tunes and themes of social awakening and patriotism — within a time limit of 12 minutes," said Sole. The event's inaugural session will be graced by officials and dignitaries from various cultural and religious organisations, including representatives from Gurukunj Mozari's Akhil Bharatiya Gurudev Seva Mandal, Achyut Maharaj Seva Sansthan, and Nagpur University scholars. Tired of too many ads? go ad free now BOX What is Khanjiri Bhajan? Khanjiri Bhajan is a vibrant form of devotional singing performed with the khanjiri — a small, handheld frame drum that produces a rhythmic, sharp sound. This art form blends soulful lyrics, folk melodies, and dynamic percussion, creating a lively atmosphere of devotion and social awareness. In Vidarbha, Khanjiri Bhajan rose to prominence through the legendary Rashtra Sant Tukdoji Maharaj, who used it as a powerful medium to spread messages of social reform, patriotism, and spiritual awakening among the masses. Khanjiri goes for the competition 283: Total Bhajan groups 59 from Nagpur 124 from other parts of Vidarbha Rs 1 lakh: First prize Rs 71,000: Second prize Rs 51,000: Third prize ₹5,000 each to 10 groups as consolation prizes
Hans India
13-07-2025
- Hans India
North Korea's Mount Kumgang listed as UNESCO World Heritage site
Paris: North Korea's Mount Kumgang, a scenic mountain known for its beauty that changes with the seasons, has been named a United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO) World Heritage site. UNESCO added Mount Kumgang to its World Heritage list following the 47th session of the UNESCO World Heritage Committee in Paris on Sunday. The official name of the place entering the list is "Mt. Kumgang - Diamond Mountain from the Sea." In May this year, the International Council on Monuments and Sites and the International Union for Conservation of Nature, which serve as advisory bodies to the World Heritage Committee, had recommended the inclusion of Mount Kumgang on the UNESCO World Heritage list, reported Yonhap news agency. UNESCO's website describes Mount Kumgang as "a strikingly beautiful mountain with numerous peaks and curious rocks amounting to some 1,2000, waterfalls and pools formed by crystal-like clear waters flowing from hundreds of gorges, as well as with the seascape stretched along the coastline." "Mt. Kumgang is permeated with numerous legends and cultural relics handed down through generations," the website says. North Korea submitted its application for World Heritage inscription in 2021, but the site's review was delayed due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The evaluation resumed this year. Mount Kumgang is North Korea's third World Cultural Heritage site, joining the Complex of Koguryo Tombs, inscribed in 2004 and the Historic Monuments and Sites in Kaesong in 2013. In 2014, North Korea also had "Arirang, a lyrical folk song in the Democratic People's Republic of Korea" inscribed as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. On July 12, a set of prehistoric rock carvings in southeastern South Korea was added to UNESCO's World Heritage list, the country's cultural agency announced. The decision was made during the 47th session of the UNESCO World Heritage Committee held in Paris, where the "Petroglyphs along the Bangucheon Stream" were formally recognised for their outstanding cultural value.
