Latest news with #Pillai
The Hindu
4 hours ago
- Entertainment
- The Hindu
ITFoK 2026 to be held from January 25 to February 1
The 16th edition of the International Theatre Festival of Kerala (ITFoK) will take place from January 25 to February 1, 2026. The announcement was made by Cultural Affairs Minister Saji Cherian during the Kerala Sangeetha Nataka Akademi awards ceremony recently. Renowned theatre director and educator Abhilash Pillai has been appointed as the Festival Director for ITFoK 2026. This marks his fourth term in the role, having previously led the festival in 2009, 2010, and 2017. A distinguished figure in Indian theatre, Mr. Pillai has held leadership roles in several festivals both in India and abroad. A graduate of the School of Drama, Thrissur, he pursued his post-graduation from the National School of Drama, Delhi, and advanced theatre studies at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Arts (RADA), London. He also received specialised training from leading directors at London's prestigious Orange Tree Theatre. He currently serves as the Director of the School of Drama and Fine Arts, Thrissur. He is also a recipient of the Kerala Sangeetha Nataka Akademi Award and several other accolades. Joining Mr. Pillai in the festival directorate are Anamika Haksar (Acclaimed director and theatre activist); Ruwanthie de Chickera (Sri Lankan theatre director); Sreejith Ramanan and M.G. Jyotish (notable Malayalam theatre practitioners and educators). To further elevate the artistic and curatorial standards of the festival, a high-profile advisory committee has been constituted with senior theatre persons Ratan Thiyam, M.K. Raina, Anuradha Kapur and Prof. B. Ananthakrishnan. Akademi secretary Karivellur Murali said that preparations for the 2026 edition are already under way, guided by the vision and expertise of this newly formed team.
New Indian Express
13 hours ago
- Business
- New Indian Express
VS' stand against Dubai company proved crucial in SmartCity growth
KOCHI: Former Chief Minister V S Achuthanandan's stand— particularly his opposition to giving incentives to Dubai-based TECOM Investments — played a crucial role in the conceptual stages of the SmartCity Kochi project, then worth Rs 1,500 crore. Eventually, TECOM went on to hold 84% stake in the venture. As the leader of Opposition in 2005, VS built a strong campaign against the then Chief Minister Oommen Chandy's proposal to set up a multi-crore IT park on nearly 250 acres at Kakkanad, highlighting several clauses detrimental to the state's interests. A major point of contention was TECOM's demand for freehold rights over 12% of the land meant for the project. When the LDF government headed by VS came to power in 2006, it was determined to protect public assets and held hard bargains with TECOM. 'The hard line adopted by VS, first as leader of Opposition and then as chief minister, has played a crucial role in retaining the IT field in the public sector and paving the way for its substantial growth, thus proving it a successful model,' K Chandran Pillai, former MP and national secretary of CITU, told TNIE. 'Back then, VS had to bear much criticism for taking an anti-development stand.' In 2006, VS negotiated with the same company and changed the initial terms. 'VS said we will give land on lease but TECOM wanted it as a freeholding,' said Joseph C Mathew, who then served as the IT advisor to the CM. 'The reason was that TECOM, in the case of a lease, would only be able to sublease the land. They claimed it would turn away big names like Microsoft and Google. So, the state government said the land parcels earmarked will be given on freehold rights but will be converted into an SEZ later. That meant TECOM won't have alienable rights. In the last year of the VS government, all misunderstandings were cleared.' Pillai pointed out that VS put forward a new set of conditions acceptable to TECOM as well. 'We could foresee the huge potential of Kochi in the development of IT sector. We were confident of leveraging the IT sector even if the agreement reached by Oommen Chandy was discarded. Kochi has now turned into one of the best IT hubs after the implementation of Phase 1 and Phase 2,' he said. Citing the proposal to develop Kochi as a mega AI hub, with the state government ordering the acquisition of nearly 300 acres for Phase 3 development, Pillai said: 'All these have become possible because of VS' long-term vision and his hard stand against the wrong set of initial agreements 20 years ago.'
Indian Express
13-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Indian Express
Labubu dolls may be the rage, but this Delhi cartoonist's doll collection continues to win hearts
The woman exudes elegance in a striking red dress adorned with layers of delicate, cream-colored lace ruffles that cascade to the floor. She is poised — with one hand on her hip and the other gracefully holding an open fan. On the other side, her partner strikes a commanding pose with one arm raised and the other elegantly curved behind him. He is dressed in high-waisted trousers, a tailored black jacket with red accents, and a traditional flat-brimmed hat. They are Flamenco dancers from Spain, frozen in motion inside a glass case — two among the many dolls that fill every corner of a unique museum in Delhi. Labubu plushie dolls, created by Hong Kong-born artist Kasing Lung based on Nordic folklore, may be the internet's latest obsession — while smashing price records. But in the Capital, long before the fanfare, it was one cartoonist's international doll collection that quietly captured hearts. This is Shankar's International Doll Museum. Founded by political cartoonist K Shankar Pillai, the museum has one of the world's largest collections of costume dolls. Inaugurated in 1965, it sits on the first floor of the Children's Book Trust on Bahadur Shah Zafar Marg. The story of the museum began in the early 1950s when Pillai was part of a delegation accompanying then Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru on a trip abroad. He was gifted a Hungarian doll by the country's ambassador — and was instantly captivated. Thus began his journey of collecting a costume doll from each country he visited. Today, the museum is home to over 7,000 dolls from 85 countries. It is divided into two main sections, with seven sub-sections. One section showcases wooden and wax dolls from European countries, the UK, USA, Australia, New Zealand, and the Commonwealth of Independent States. The other features dolls from Asian countries, the Middle East, Africa, and India. Each section includes display glass cases etched with maps of the respective countries, offering a visual cue to the dolls' cultural roots. As visitors explore, children press their small hands and noses against the glass, eyes wide with wonder. 'Come here, see! These are such pretty dolls,' a small girl calls to her friend, standing on her toes to get a better look at the French dolls. These dolls reflect a journey through the evolution of culture and clothing. 'Barbies' with silky grey hair are placed on pedestals — some dressed in short skirts, loose socks, and boots, while others wear modern jumpsuits. In contrast, figures of elderly women are positioned at the base, wearing vintage gowns and carrying baskets of lavender, as noted in a label: 'grown in the upper regions of France.' One display features the first ever doll from Pillai's collection — a young peasant woman seated on a three-tiered pedestal, fondly gazing at the corn in her hand. Beside her are other dolls of women, both young and old, engaged in crochet work. The British display features a doll dressed as a royal queen in a regal gown and crown, flanked by guards in traditional red coats and bearskin hats — evoking the quintessential image of British pageantry. A mother of two, who did not wish to be named, says she used to visit the museum regularly with her dad. 'I used to come here with my papa (father) and have been fascinated since then. I've now brought my children to learn about the different countries… I think my daughter is enjoying it a lot here,' she adds. Another section of the museum houses dolls from across India. There are dolls from Kerala dressed like Kathakali dancers, dancing at the forefront of a grand procession of elephants, each carrying people on their backs. There are also women dressed in traditional white sarees with golden borders (kasavu saris) with gajras (flower garlands) neatly tucked into their hair buns. Chhattisgarh is represented through vibrant folk dances, Punjab through its energetic bhangra and colourful attire. Jammu and Kashmir is depicted through scenes of Shikara boat rides and intricate carpet weaving. A Delhi family — a woman, her daughter and granddaughter — is also among the visitors. The grandmother is excited to show her granddaughter the cultural tapestry of her home state, Assam. 'This is 'Mekhela Chador,' a two-piece garment worn by women on special occasions. This is made by special silk found in Assam,' she says, pointing to a large doll across the glass. 'I'm happy to see my state being represented in such a warm spirit,' she adds. Meanwhile, her granddaughter tugs at her mother's hand. 'See, Maa, it moves!' she exclaims. She's pointing at the thalaiyatti bommai, or bobble-head doll, from Thanjavur, Tamil Nadu. Made of terracotta, the dolls are in various sizes, with a heavy, rounded base and a detachable, lighter head that wobbles gently. Hand-painted in bright colors, they feature wide eyes, golden crowns, and intricate ornaments. Aarti, who has come here with her two-year-old son from Gurgaon, is happy that such places exist. 'I'm learning new things about Indian culture… These dolls show the diversity of clothing, traditions, and art forms — not only from India but from around the world.' Navin Menon, the in-charge of the doll museum, says the collection continues to grow. 'When ambassadors of the embassies in India come here and notice that a new doll needs to be added, or an existing one from their country needs to be replaced, they get the doll made in their country and then gift it to us,' she says. Asked whether a Labubu might be added, she smiles. 'It would be great — but a Labubu is a character doll. Our collection focuses on costume dolls.' She also mentions that doll repair workshops are occasionally held by the museum to restore and maintain the collection. As visitors head toward the exit, two dolls are available for purchase — one a bride from Maharashtra, the other a dancer performing the Manipuri Ras. Both are displayed in a glass cabin — waiting to be taken home. Timings: 10 am to 6 pm. Open all days, except Mondays, national holidays, and festivals Entry fee: Rs 25 for adults, Rs 10 for children, plus service tax
Hans India
13-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Hans India
A tapestry of art and history unfolds in Hyderabad
When art travels, it carries more than colour and canvas — it carries memory. Gallery G's travelling exhibition 'On the Go', now gracing the elegant halls of Taj Krishna in Hyderabad, opened not just with masterworks from across India but with words that gave them soul. The exhibition itself is a vivid mosaic of India's visual legacy — from the lyrical minimalism of Gaitonde and the firebrand modernism of M.F. Husain to the intricate brilliance of Tanjore panelsand silver filigree furniture. Yet it was the voice of Pillai that gave this tapestry its historical heartbeat, inviting viewers to look not just at art, but through it. In a luminous talk titled 'Art as History', historian and author Manu S. Pillai cast a spell over a rapt audience, weaving stories of forgotten queens, colonial encounters, and cultural awakenings. 'Art,' he said, 'is more than an object of beauty — it is an archive of longing, identity, and time.' With his characteristic wit and erudition, Pillai illuminated how brushstrokes can echo dynastic pride, rebellion, and even whispered defiance. Sangeeta Abhay's work draws deeply from Indic spiritual traditions, and presents the lotus not simply as a botanical form but as a cosmic bloom—an axis of creation. Ganapati Hegde's trademark humour takes centre stage in the artwork titled ' In a Meeting'. A green frog lounges nonchalantly on a red sofa, mobile phone in hand, surrounded by dense tropical flora- a playful critique of modern life's intrusion into the natural world. Reghunatha Naidu brings to his canvases a sense of devotion, balance, and reverence, which reflects in his'Kodanda Rama'. A rare painting by S.M. Pandit, 'The Descent of Ganga' stands out in the show. Inspired by the legend of King Bhagiratha, who performed years of penance to bring Ganga to Earth and grant salvation to his ancestors, S.M. Pandit masterfully narrates this mythological episode through his art. 'These artists may have remained under-celebrated in the shadow of more prominent names, but they are masters in their own right,' says Gitanjali Maini, Founder and Managing Director of Gallery G. 'We've been able to source key works by Reddappa Naidu and Srinivasan through our long-standing network of collectors, and we're proud to bring them into the spotlight.'As Hyderabad plays host till July 13, 'On the Go' becomes more than an exhibition. It is a living dialogue between image and idea, pigment and past — and thanks to Pillai's eloquence, a reminder that our histories are not silent. They speak — in line, form, and in 2003 in Bangalore, Gallery G has built a legacy of museum-grade exhibitions, rigorous research, and inclusive curation. Ms. Gitanjali says, 'With 'On the Go', the gallery reaffirms its commitment to take art beyond traditional walls — to where its audiences live, engage, and celebrate Indian art. This journey is not just about showcasing great art — it's about making it accessible, meaningful, and inspiring for all.' Hyderabad certainly enjoys and looks forward to such insightful art shows and engaging talks. When is the next one coming up?
&w=3840&q=100)
Business Standard
08-07-2025
- Health
- Business Standard
What rising blood pressure means for your health, and what to do about it
What is blood pressure and why does it matter? High blood pressure, also known as hypertension, is often called a silent killer. It causes over 12.8 per cent of all deaths globally, according to WHO. You may feel perfectly fine, yet your blood vessels could be under constant strain, increasing the risk of heart disease, stroke, and other serious complications. How is blood pressure measured? Blood pressure is the force of your blood pushing against the walls of your arteries. It's measured using two numbers: A normal reading is typically around 120/80 mmHg. What causes high blood pressure? Dr Ajith Pillai, Chief Cardiologist at Kauvery Hospital, Chennai, explains that hypertension may develop over time due to: Obesity and poor diet (especially high salt intake) Stress and lack of physical activity Smoking and alcohol use Chronic diseases like diabetes and kidney conditions Hormonal issues or sleep apnoea Family history of hypertension Primary hypertension has no identifiable cause, while secondary hypertension stems from other conditions. Why is hypertension awareness so important? A 2023 Indian Journal of Public Health study shows: 24–30% of urban Indians and 12–14% of rural population have hypertension Hypertension causes 54% of strokes and 47% of heart disease cases globally By 2030, it may lead to 12.5 million deaths annually Dr Pillai noted: 'Only 1 in 3 people are diagnosed, and less than 1 in 5 are treated effectively. Resistant hypertension needs urgent attention.' What symptoms should you watch out for? Often, hypertension is symptomless. But some people may experience: Headaches or dizziness Nosebleeds and blurry vision Abnormal heart rhythms Shortness of breath or buzzing in ears Resistant hypertension, when BP remains high despite three or more medications, requires specialised care. Can you prevent high blood pressure? WHO recommends: A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains Lower salt and sugar intake At least 30 minutes of physical activity most days Quitting smoking and limiting alcohol Managing stress with meditation or therapy What are the treatment options for high BP? Management may include: Lifestyle changes Regular BP monitoring Medication such as ACE inhibitors, beta blockers, ARBs, calcium channel blockers, and diuretics Monthly medication costs: ₹100–₹1,000 depending on the brand. For resistant hypertension, newer options like renal denervation (RDN) offer hope. What about low blood pressure? Low blood pressure (hypotension) is defined as readings below 90/60 mmHg. While some live with it without symptoms, others may face: Dizziness, fainting, or nausea Blurred vision Cold, clammy skin Fatigue What causes hypotension? Dehydration or prolonged bed rest Certain medications Heart or hormonal disorders Pregnancy or low blood volume Managing low BP includes: Staying hydrated Eating smaller meals more frequently Increasing salt (under doctor's advice) Wearing compression stockings Adjusting medication Monthly management cost: ₹50–₹300, possibly more with hospitalisation.
