Latest news with #Mahanta
India Gazette
28-05-2025
- Entertainment
- India Gazette
Assamese short film 'Ansuni Chinkhe' receives warm reception at Cannes Marche du Film screening
Guwahati (Assam) [India], May 28 (ANI): 'Ansuni Chinkhe' (Unheard Whispers), a socially charged Assamese short film directed by Partha Sarathi Mahanta, Commissioner of Police, Guwahati, has made a significant mark on the global stage following its recent online screening at the prestigious Marche du Film, the business counterpart of the Cannes Film Festival. A deeply thought-provoking film with a powerful message, 'Ansuni Chinkhe' was showcased to an international audience of film professionals, critics, and distributors during the Marche du Film's online screening segment. Viewers and professionals praised the film for its artistic execution and the depth with which it handled socially pressing issues, particularly those affecting women and marginalised voices. Narrated by National Award-winning actress Seema Biswas, the film portrays the challenging yet powerful story of a young girl in India, shedding light on the obstacles she faces from birth through adulthood. The short film explores the inherent contradictions in Indian society, where women are revered as goddesses on one hand, yet subjected to brutal discrimination and violence on the other. Mahanta said the story begins even before birth, spotlighting the grim reality of female feticide. 'If a girl child survives and is born, she is often pushed into child marriage, her agency stripped away before she even reaches adolescence. Once married, her identity is dissolved into that of her husband's, whom she is expected to worship as her supreme deity. The physical, emotional, and psychological trauma that follows is heartbreakingly common, yet rarely acknowledged. However, Ansuni Chinkhe is not merely a narrative of suffering. The film not only depicts adversity but also aims to inspire change, serving as a cinematic expression of resistance and empowerment,' Mahanta said. He further said that the woman in the story reclaims her identity as Shakti--the divine embodiment of feminine power--and declares that silence is no longer an option. 'Her unheard whispers rise into a roar as she breaks the chains of oppression and asserts her rightful place in society,' he said. Ansuni Chinkhe's powerful message is magnified by the unique lens of Mahanta- a visionary storyteller who serves as the Chief of Assam Police's Special Task Force. As a law enforcement official with a deep understanding of the societal structures that perpetuate gender injustice, Mahanta brings a rare combination of empathy, authenticity, and insight to the film. Mahanta, who has previously been known for his contributions to public safety and policy reform, ventured into filmmaking as an extension of his commitment to social justice. With Ansuni Chinkhe, he channels his experiences on the front lines of crime and society into an evocative cinematic narrative that bridges art and activism. 'The film is a tribute to the countless women whose voices have been stifled for generations,' Mahanta said. Through 'Ansuni Chinkhe,' the makers aim to spark conversations, break silences, and contribute to a movement in which every woman reclaims her rightful place in society. Prior to its Cannes debut, Ansuni Chinkhe had already garnered critical acclaim on the national festival circuit. The film was honoured at the 17th Jaipur International Film Festival (JIFF) 2025, where it won - Best Director: Dr. Partha Sarathi Mahanta, Best Actress: Seema Biswas. These awards were earned in a highly competitive edition of the festival, which received around 2,408 film entries from 88 countries, reinforcing the film's creative excellence and international relevance. The film's inclusion in the Marche du Film represents a noteworthy achievement for the team behind it and contributes to the growing global presence of Assamese-language cinema. At a time when regional Indian films are steadily gaining global attention, Ansuni Chinkhe stands out as a beacon of how storytelling rooted in local culture and language can have a universal impact. Mina Mahanta and Indrani Baruah, both passionate advocates for social storytelling, produced the film. Their collaboration with Mahanta has resulted in a cinematic piece that is as aesthetically rich as it is socially significant. In a world grappling with gender inequality and systemic violence against women, 'Ansuni Chinkhe' serves as both a mirror and a megaphone. It reflects the lived experiences of millions of women and amplifies the urgent need for cultural and legislative change. Through art, it dares to provoke, educate, and inspire. Following its screening at Cannes, the filmmakers are in discussions for wider digital distribution to ensure that 'Ansuni Chinkhe' reaches broader audiences both in India and abroad. The film team also plans to screen it in academic institutions, gender forums, and film societies to continue the important conversations it sparks. (ANI)
Hans India
20-05-2025
- Politics
- Hans India
JGU Dean first Indian academic appointed to Cambridge SHEAC
Sonipat: In an unprecedented educational honour for Indian academics, Prof (Dr) Upasana Mahanta, Dean of Admissions and Outreach at O.P. Jindal Global University (JGU), has been appointed as the First Indian to the Strategic Higher Education Advisory Council (SHEAC) formed by Cambridge International. This is the first time India is being represented at this global platform. SHEAC brings together senior leaders in admissions and student recruitment from some of the world's most distinguished academic institutions -- including the University of Oxford, MIT, University of Cambridge, University of Toronto, and Monash University. The Council plays a vital role in shaping the recognition, relevance, and future direction of Cambridge qualifications globally, ensuring they remain responsive to the changing dynamics of higher education worldwide. Prof Mahanta's appointment is a significant recognition of the growing leadership of India in global academic forums. An Indian voice at SHEAC brings much-needed representation and perspective from the Global South to critical conversations impacting higher education. Her experience and leadership will make India's role even more influential on international platforms like Cambridge. This appointment, a first for an Indian academic, will help in getting global recognition for the country's achievements in the field of education. Reflecting on her appointment, Prof Mahanta shared: 'It's an incredible honour to join this global group of educators and policy leaders. I see this as an opportunity to represent not just JGU but also the aspirations of students and educators across India and the Global South. The world of education is transforming, and it's vital that this transformation is guided by voices that are diverse, grounded, and globally minded.' Commenting on the news, Prof (Dr) C. Raj Kumar, Founding Vice Chancellor of JGU, said, 'This is a proud moment for JGU and for India. Prof Upasana Mahanta's appointment shows that the work we are doing here -- our values, our vision, our commitment to inclusive education -- resonates globally. As a university from the Global South, we believe in building bridges, not walls. We are honoured that our voice will now help shape the future of education at an international level.'
India Gazette
19-05-2025
- General
- India Gazette
JGU Dean is First Indian Academic Appointed to Cambridge International's Strategic Higher Education Advisory Council
OP Jindal University Sonipat (Haryana) [India], May 19: In an unprecedented educational honour for Indian academics, Prof. (Dr.) Upasana Mahanta, Dean of Admissions and Outreach at O.P. Jindal Global University (JGU), has been appointed as the First Indian to the Strategic Higher Education Advisory Council (SHEAC) formed by Cambridge International. This is the first time India is being represented at this global platform. SHEAC brings together senior leaders in admissions and student recruitment from some of the world's most distinguished academic institutions--including the University of Oxford, MIT, University of Cambridge, University of Toronto, and Monash University. The Council plays a vital role in shaping the recognition, relevance, and future direction of Cambridge qualifications globally, ensuring they remain responsive to the changing dynamics of higher education worldwide. Prof. Mahanta's appointment is a significant recognition of the growing leadership of India in global academic forums. An Indian voice at SHEAC brings much-needed representation and perspective from the Global South to critical conversations impacting higher education. Her experience and leadership will make India's role even more influential on international platforms like Cambridge. This appointment, a first for an Indian academic, will help in getting global recognition for the country's achievements in the field of education. Reflecting on her appointment, Prof. Mahanta shared: 'It's an incredible honour to join this global group of educators and policy leaders. I see this as an opportunity to represent not just JGU, but also the aspirations of students and educators across India and the Global South. The world of education is transforming, and it's vital that this transformation is guided by voices that are diverse, grounded, and globally minded.' Commenting on the news, Prof. (Dr.) C. Raj Kumar, Founding Vice Chancellor of JGU, said, 'This is a proud moment for JGU and for India. Prof. Upasana Mahanta's appointment shows that the work we are doing here -- our values, our vision, our commitment to inclusive education --resonates globally. As a university from the Global South, we believe in building bridges, not walls. We are honoured that our voice will now help shape the future of education at an international level.' In a time of rapid change--when higher education is being reshaped by technology, global migration, climate challenges, and shifting ideas of what learning should look like--representation matters more than ever. This appointment is a reminder that some of the most important ideas, innovations, and leadership in education are coming from places like India. Dr Mahanta's selection to the SHEAC Council is a big step for India as it will increase the country's ability to raise a strong voice globally in the education sector. O.P. Jindal Global University has been playing a pioneering role in India in making admission processes more accessible, inclusive, and student-focused. Founded in 2009, JGU has grown into one of India's top private universities, with a strong international outlook. Recognised as an Institution of Eminence by the Government of India, JGU is home to twelve schools, over 500 academic partnerships worldwide, and a stellar reputation for excellence in law, liberal arts, international affairs, and the social sciences. (ADVERTORIAL DISCLAIMER: The above press release has been provided by OP Jindal University. ANI will not be responsible in any way for the content of the same)
Canada Standard
15-05-2025
- Politics
- Canada Standard
Assam: Prof Upasana Mahanta joins Cambridge International's advisory council as first Indian member
Guwahati (Assam) [India], May 15 (ANI): Professor Upasana Mahanta, Dean of Admissions and Outreach at O.P. Jindal Global University, was appointed to the Strategic Higher Education Advisory Council (SHEAC) constituted by Cambridge International on Thursday, according to an official statement. Prof. Mahanta is the first Indian member to join this globally distinguished body. SHEAC brings together senior admissions and enrollment leaders from leading institutions such as the University of Oxford, Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), the University of Cambridge, the University of Toronto, and Monash University. The Council plays a vital role in shaping how Cambridge qualifications are recognised and supported worldwide, ensuring alignment with the evolving landscape of higher education. Prof. Mahanta's inclusion is a testament to her leadership in higher education and recognition of India's growing voice in shaping international education pathways. Prof. Mahanta is the daughter of late Professor Sarat Mahanta and Mina Mahanta from the Sivasagar district of Assam. She studied at Joysagar Nimna Buniyadi Abhyison Vidyalaya, Rongpur Girls' School, Phuleswari School, Sankar Academy, Miranda House, Hindu College, Jawaharlal Nehru University (Delhi), and the University of British Columbia (Canada). She was a faculty member at the Tata Institute of Social Sciences, Mumbai, and has delivered lectures at top universities worldwide. In addition, Prof. Mahanta is a lecturer at the Jindal Global Law School, where she instructs classes in research methodologies, gender and conflict, international relations, and political science. According to the statement, she has a political science and international relations background with a focus on women's and gender studies. She focuses on women in emerging political institutions, gendered understandings of conflict, and women's resistance in insecure circumstances. She has a wealth of higher education, research, and administration expertise. Her scholarly works include numerous peer-reviewed journal papers, book chapters, novels, and opinion pieces. Dr. Mahanta taught at the Tata Institute of Social Sciences' Centre for Women's Studies in Mumbai before joining OPJGU. She has also held several leadership positions at OPJGU, including Senior Additional Registrar and Director of the Office of Student Life and Cultural Engagement. (ANI)
India Gazette
15-05-2025
- Politics
- India Gazette
Assam: Prof Upasana Mahanta joins Cambridge International's advisory council as first Indian member
Guwahati (Assam) [India], May 15 (ANI): Professor Upasana Mahanta, Dean of Admissions and Outreach at O.P. Jindal Global University, was appointed to the Strategic Higher Education Advisory Council (SHEAC) constituted by Cambridge International on Thursday, according to an official statement. Prof. Mahanta is the first Indian member to join this globally distinguished body. SHEAC brings together senior admissions and enrollment leaders from leading institutions such as the University of Oxford, Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), the University of Cambridge, the University of Toronto, and Monash University. The Council plays a vital role in shaping how Cambridge qualifications are recognised and supported worldwide, ensuring alignment with the evolving landscape of higher education. Prof. Mahanta's inclusion is a testament to her leadership in higher education and recognition of India's growing voice in shaping international education pathways. Prof. Mahanta is the daughter of late Professor Sarat Mahanta and Mina Mahanta from the Sivasagar district of Assam. She studied at Joysagar Nimna Buniyadi Abhyison Vidyalaya, Rongpur Girls' School, Phuleswari School, Sankar Academy, Miranda House, Hindu College, Jawaharlal Nehru University (Delhi), and the University of British Columbia (Canada). She was a faculty member at the Tata Institute of Social Sciences, Mumbai, and has delivered lectures at top universities worldwide. In addition, Prof. Mahanta is a lecturer at the Jindal Global Law School, where she instructs classes in research methodologies, gender and conflict, international relations, and political science. According to the statement, she has a political science and international relations background with a focus on women's and gender studies. She focuses on women in emerging political institutions, gendered understandings of conflict, and women's resistance in insecure circumstances. She has a wealth of higher education, research, and administration expertise. Her scholarly works include numerous peer-reviewed journal papers, book chapters, novels, and opinion pieces. Dr. Mahanta taught at the Tata Institute of Social Sciences' Centre for Women's Studies in Mumbai before joining OPJGU. She has also held several leadership positions at OPJGU, including Senior Additional Registrar and Director of the Office of Student Life and Cultural Engagement. (ANI)
