Latest news with #CultureandArts
Euronews
04-08-2025
- Entertainment
- Euronews
In Pictures: Sacred masks and dancing fill Benin's capital
Sacred spirits met swirling colour in Porto-Novo this weekend, as performers in elaborate wooden masks and flowing fabrics danced through the streets during Benin's annual traditional mask festival – seen here through the lens of photographer Sunday Alamba. The lively event brought together sacred and secular mask traditions from across Benin and the surrounding region, aiming to both honour ancient customs and position Porto-Novo as a rising star on the West African cultural tourism map. Closely tied to the Yoruba, Somba, and Betammaribe communities, many of the masks – like Egungun and Zangbeto – represent ancestral spirits that guard communities and connect the living with the spiritual world. As drummers filled the air with rhythm, costumed performers acted out stories passed down through generations. While rooted in Vodun heritage, the festival also offers a broader cultural experience. Visitors explored a bustling festival village featuring local crafts and regional cuisine, and enjoyed concerts and parades. Organised with backing from Benin's Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Arts, the event is part of a growing effort to boost the country's visibility on the international cultural stage. With attendees from neighbouring countries, Europe, and beyond, the festival is fast becoming a highlight on Benin's cultural calendar.
The South African
27-07-2025
- Entertainment
- The South African
Ciara honoured with Beninese citizenship in historic ceremony
West African nation Benin officially awarded American singer and dancer Ciara Wilson citizenship on Saturday, 26 July. The Grammy-winning star, known simply as Ciara, traced her roots to Benin, a country rich with history and culture. The citizenship ceremony marked a heartfelt homecoming for Ciara and attracted attention across Africa, including South Africa. Ciara arrived in Benin earlier that week and immediately began exploring the nation's cultural and historical landmarks, according to Kaya 959 She visited Ouidah, a city deeply linked to the transatlantic slave trade. There, she walked the Slave Route and stood at the Gate of No Return. The moment was powerful. Speaking about the experience, Ciara said, 'Standing at the Gate of No Return was deeply moving. It reminded me of my ancestors' strength. I felt grounded, connected, and honoured.' The citizenship ceremony itself took place in a vibrant event attended by top government officials. Among them were Minister of Justice and Legislation Babalola Jean-Michel H. Abimbola, Minister of Tourism, Culture and Arts Olushegun Adjadi Bakari, and the Minister of Foreign Affairs. Each official expressed pride in welcoming Ciara as a new citizen. Minister Abimbola remarked, 'Ciara represents the living link between Africa and the diaspora. Granting her citizenship celebrates our shared history and inspires the next generation.' Minister Bakari added, 'Culture and identity matter. Ciara's visit brings awareness to Benin's heritage and strengthens our global connections.' On social media, Ciara shared videos and photos from the event. One clip showed her chanting in a local Beninese language, a touching gesture symbolising her embrace of the culture. The ceremony highlighted not only Ciara's journey but also the broader story of African identity and reclaiming roots for people of the diaspora. CIARA AND AFRICA'S RICH HISTORY South African audiences have taken a special interest in Ciara's citizenship. Many see it as part of a growing movement of the African diaspora reconnecting with the continent. South Africa, with its diverse population and rich cultural history, can relate to this sense of rediscovery and celebration of heritage. Ciara's journey emphasises the importance of acknowledging African history and culture. Her willingness to publicly honour her ancestry encourages others across the globe. As the world grows more interconnected, such acts build bridges and deepen understanding. In terms of value, the ceremony symbolises more than a legal status. It marks a historic moment, creating shared pride and hope. The symbolic weight of this event resonates far beyond Benin's borders. For African fans and global followers alike, Ciara's citizenship represents progress and unity. Ciara Wilson's citizenship grant from Benin is a milestone worth celebrating. It brings history to life and honours the past while shaping future connections. It reminds Africans, including South Africans, that the continent's heritage is alive and open to all who choose to embrace it. Let us know by leaving a comment below, or send a WhatsApp to 060 011 021 1. Subscribe to The South African website's newsletters and follow us on WhatsApp, Facebook, X and Bluesky for the latest news.
The Sun
15-06-2025
- Business
- The Sun
Labuan attracts South Korean travel agencies eyeing niche tourism market
LABUAN: Labuan is positioning itself as a niche destination for South Korean travellers following a four-day familiarisation trip by senior executives from seven major travel agencies in South Korea. Held from June 12 to 15, the visit aimed to showcase Labuan's unique tourism offerings, including golf, diving and island escapes, to develop tailored tour packages for the Korean market. The initiative was jointly organised by Tourism Malaysia's Seoul and Sabah offices, the Labuan Tourism Information Centre, the Department of Tourism, Culture and Arts under Labuan Corporation (LC), As well as the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture (MOTAC), with support from local operators and hoteliers. During the visit, the delegation explored key attractions such as renowned shipwreck and coral reef dive sites, the 18-hole Labuan International Golf Club and island destinations like Pulau Rusukan Besar. They also toured leading accommodations including Tiara Labuan Hotel, Palm Beach Resort and Spa, AZ Hotel and Serviced Apartment, Beta Serviced Apartment and eco-tourism site Desa Tunas Hijau. The Labuan Tourism Information Centre said the visit marked a strategic effort to tap into the growing demand among South Korean tourists for nature-based and experiential travel, with Labuan offering a peaceful, less-discovered alternative. 'What we offer is tranquillity, nature and niche experiences, from world-class diving and golf to quiet, pristine islands, which appeal to Korean travellers seeking destinations beyond the mainstream,' it said. It added that connectivity via Kota Kinabalu and potential regional partnerships could help position Labuan as a preferred tropical getaway in the Borneo region. South Korean travel representatives were optimistic about Labuan's potential, citing a growing interest in tropical destinations that combine relaxation and adventure. The visit is expected to lead to new promotional content, tour packages and digital campaigns targeting the Korean market, boosting Labuan's visibility in Northeast Asia.
The Sun
15-06-2025
- Business
- The Sun
Labuan Courts Korean Tourists with Nature and Niche Travel
LABUAN: Labuan is positioning itself as a niche destination for South Korean travellers following a four-day familiarisation trip by senior executives from seven major travel agencies in South Korea. Held from June 12 to 15, the visit aimed to showcase Labuan's unique tourism offerings, including golf, diving and island escapes, to develop tailored tour packages for the Korean market. The initiative was jointly organised by Tourism Malaysia's Seoul and Sabah offices, the Labuan Tourism Information Centre, the Department of Tourism, Culture and Arts under Labuan Corporation (LC), As well as the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture (MOTAC), with support from local operators and hoteliers. During the visit, the delegation explored key attractions such as renowned shipwreck and coral reef dive sites, the 18-hole Labuan International Golf Club and island destinations like Pulau Rusukan Besar. They also toured leading accommodations including Tiara Labuan Hotel, Palm Beach Resort and Spa, AZ Hotel and Serviced Apartment, Beta Serviced Apartment and eco-tourism site Desa Tunas Hijau. The Labuan Tourism Information Centre said the visit marked a strategic effort to tap into the growing demand among South Korean tourists for nature-based and experiential travel, with Labuan offering a peaceful, less-discovered alternative. 'What we offer is tranquillity, nature and niche experiences, from world-class diving and golf to quiet, pristine islands, which appeal to Korean travellers seeking destinations beyond the mainstream,' it said. It added that connectivity via Kota Kinabalu and potential regional partnerships could help position Labuan as a preferred tropical getaway in the Borneo region. South Korean travel representatives were optimistic about Labuan's potential, citing a growing interest in tropical destinations that combine relaxation and adventure. The visit is expected to lead to new promotional content, tour packages and digital campaigns targeting the Korean market, boosting Labuan's visibility in Northeast Asia.
News18
12-05-2025
- Entertainment
- News18
Pathaan 2: Shah Rukh Khan's Spy Sequel To Be Shot In Chile, Confirms Report
Last Updated: Shah Rukh Khan's Pathaan 2 is officially in motion and will be shot in Chile next year, as part of YRF's expanding Spy Universe. After smashing box office records and reigniting the action genre in Bollywood, Shah Rukh Khan's Pathaan is officially getting a sequel—and it's heading to Chile for a major chunk of its shoot. According to a Mid-Day report, Pathaan 2, the highly anticipated next chapter in YRF's Spy Universe, will go on floors next year with breathtaking Chilean landscapes as its backdrop. The development gained traction during the recent visit of Chilean President Gabriel Boric Font to India. The President, along with Chile's Minister of Culture and Arts, Carolina Arredondo, met with key Indian creatives to explore cinematic collaborations that showcase Chile's natural beauty. Filmmaker-actor Anshuman Jha, who met the Chilean delegates in Mumbai, revealed, 'There are concrete conversations of Pathaan 2 by Yash Raj Films and Lakadbaggha 3 being shot in Chile next year. I hope we help His Excellency's vision of bringing the beauty of Chile to the world through our cinema." While the Spy Universe continues to expand, Pathaan 2 is reportedly slated to arrive before the much-hyped crossover event Tiger vs Pathaan. As previously reported by Pinkvilla, the sequel will serve as a narrative bridge, setting the stage for a cinematic clash between two titans—SRK's Pathaan and Salman Khan's Tiger. 'Soon after the blockbuster release in January 2023, Aditya Chopra and Shah Rukh Khan began discussing a dedicated franchise for Pathaan," said a source close to the development. 'Adi began working on the sequel as a crucial pivot in the Spy Universe timeline." In another exciting twist, Anil Kapoor has signed a multi-film deal with YRF to appear as a recurring character across the Spy Universe films. The veteran actor will first make an appearance in War 2—starring Hrithik Roshan, Jr NTR, and Kiara Advani—followed by a role in Alpha, headlined by Alia Bhatt and Sharvari, and eventually feature in Pathaan 2. With its globe-trotting scale, returning powerhouse leads like Shah Rukh Khan and Deepika Padukone, and strategic setup for Tiger vs Pathaan, the sequel promises high-octane thrills, dazzling visuals, and a narrative arc that will redefine cinematic universes in Indian cinema. First Published: May 12, 2025, 14:26 IST
