Djibouti appoints logistics magnate Vishal Mehta as honorary Consul General

The Republic of Djibouti recently introduced the CEO of Rushabh Sealink, logistics magnate Vishal P Mehta as its Honorary Consul General and celebrated the grand inauguration of its first-ever office in Mumbai at the prestigious ITC Grand Maratha Sheraton.Djibouti, Africa's third smallest country by landmass, plays a crucial role in international peacekeeping, hosting eight military bases from nations such as the USA, China, Japan, France, Germany, Spain, Italy, and the United Kingdom. This event marked a historic milestone, symbolising Djibouti's strategic presence on the global stage.
Distinguished guests present at the ceremony included Vishal P Mehta, the Honorary Consul of the Republic of Djibouti, His Excellency Isse Abdillahi Assoweh, the Ambassador of The Republic of Djibouti, Indian Minister of Shipping, Sarbananda Sonowal, Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, V Muraleedharan, Vinod Tawde, General Secretary of BJP and Ashish Chauhan, Managing Director and CEO of the National Stock Exchange among many others.
On the occasion Vishal P Mehta said, "as the world's largest trans-shipment port, Djibouti facilitates 30 per cent of the world's shipping vessels passing through to the Swiss Canal. Its significance as a refueling station and trans-shipment port highlights Djibouti's importance in the global shipping industry."Hailing from the financial capital of India, Vishal P Mehta emphasised the synergies between Mumbai's port-centric environment and Djibouti's focus on shipping and transport. The ceremony, graced by the Shipping Minister as the Chief Guest, signified the opportune collaboration to promote both countries' business, trade, and culture."The ceremony not only marks the inauguration of the Mumbai office but also underscores the growing diplomatic ties between Djibouti and India, fostering collaboration and goodwill on a global scale,"Mehta said.
His Excellency Isse Abdillahi Assoweh, the Ambassador of Djibouti, expressed his happiness on seeing Vishal P Mehta as the official extension of the Consul in India as another step in reinforcing the relations between the two countries.“It is a matter of immense pride on the appointment of Vishal Mehta as the Consul General of Djibouti. This will go a long way in fostering stronger relationship between our nations, expanding beyond geographical boundaries,” said Sarbananda Sonowal. V Muraleedharan, MoS gor Foreign Affairs said , "the appointment of Vishal Mehta will add to the cordial ties between India and Djibouti. India's partnership with Djibouti is based on a genuine desire to work together for each other's welfare and interest. More than 1000 Indian nationals are working in Djibouti... India always strives for the voice of Africa to be heard... This partnership has been an essential part of our relationship.
The appointment of Vishal Mehta opens up new avenues of collaboration between India and Djibouti. Medical tourism, Healthcare Pharma, IT, Digital Infrastructure and Renewable Energy are all potential areas where India can contribute immensely to the growth and development of Djibouti. I congratulate Vishal Mehta for taking up this new responsibility and wish him and his team all the very best.”

Added Vinod Tawde, National General Secretary -- BJP, "I am here as Vishal Mehta's friend. Vishal Mehta's working inspired me to request Sarbanandaji and Muraleedharanji to attend this event. He has saved an immense number of lives during Corona... That speaks of his Individual Social Responsibility at a time when we otherwise speak of CSR... I wish him all the very best."
Ashish Chauhan, Managing Director & CEO of NSE averred, “Vishal Mehta is a philanthropist as much as an astute businessman. His appointment will go a long way in forging the relationship between the two countries.” “Vishal Mehta is the synonym for hope, progress and happiness. By appointing him, Djibouti unearthed a diamond from India,” said politician and President of Maharashtra State Minority Commission Haji Arfat Shaikh.Nikunj Turakhia, President of Steel Users Federation of India said “I am very happy with the appointment of Vishal Mehta. He is very grounded. It is a win-win for both our countries.” "Economic development in Djibouti is all about Logistics / Healthcare / Construction / Trading / Renewable energy / My attempt will be to ensure Indian business houses get complete access to investment in Djibouti that will soon be the Dubai of Africa," sums up Vishal P Mehta.

32nd edition of Indian Heritage Society’s Mumbai Sanskriti Festival to begin on Jan 13

The 32nd edition of the prestigious Mumbai Sanskriti Festival, presented by the Indian Heritage Society (IHS), is all set to enthral audiences on 13th and 14th January 2024 at the iconic Town Hall (Asiatic Library) in Fort, Mumbai. Featuring a stellar lineup, the festival opens on 13th January (Saturday) with ace flautist Rakesh Chaurasia's (Flute maestro Pandit Hariprasad Chaurasia’s nephew) ‘Confluence - Music for Peace and Harmony’. The following day i.e. 14th January (Sunday) sees Vidushi Ashwini Bhide Deshpande (an acclaimed exponent of Hindustani Classical Music belonging to the Jaipur-Atrauli Gharana) and Pandit Sanjeev Abhyankar's (a Hindustani Classical Music vocalist of the Mewati Gharana) ‘Bhakti Sangam’. Presented by IHS, supported by Maharashtra Tourism, sponsored by Tata Consultancy Services and HSBC, ‘Mumbai Sanskriti’ is curated by Northern Lights.
‘Mumbai Sanskriti’ traces its roots way back to 1992. Born out of a sign-a-petition by Anita Garware, Chairperson – Indian Heritage Society, in 1991 to save the now historic precinct - the Banganga Tank, the Banganga Festival was started in 1992. “While all Mumbai citizens had heard about the Banganga Tank, very few were acquainted with its location, history, and importance, and we felt live music was the best way to raise awareness,” informs Anita Garware. What began as the Banganga Festival by the Indian Heritage Society, has evolved into the widely recognised Mumbai Sanskriti Festival, weaving together architectural and cultural heritage.
“IHS plays a pivotal role in rejuvenating heritage landmark structures in the city. Committed to fostering a continual understanding of Mumbai's history and culture through the medium of music, IHS strives to raise awareness about our rich heritage—what we have inherited—and actively works towards its conservation, restoration, and transmission to future generations,” says Anita Garware. Rooted in the mission of 'Live Music to Save our Heritage,' this year's Mumbai Sanskriti Festival revolves around Universal Peace. The diverse array of instruments, including Flute, Tabla, Mridangam, Percussion, Sitar, Harmonium, Pakhawaj, Guitar, and more, harmonize to create a cultural tapestry.
Heritage must adapt with the changing times,” believes Anita Garware, and that “heritage is held in trust by the present generation to carry forward to the next.” Acknowledging the challenges of classical music appreciation in today's fast-paced world, the IHS team actively engages in expanding the audience base. Efforts include reaching out to colleges, music schools, and educational institutions, leveraging social media, and ensuring a more inclusive cultural experience by keeping entry to the Mumbai Sanskriti Festival free of cost.
For Free passes, please contact:Chetana Book Centre, Kala Ghoda (Tel: 22851243) and Dadar Matunga Cultural Centre (Tel: 24304150).Register on Book My Show for free digital passes.

Manndakini Bora, unveils spiritual anthem "Jai Siya Ram- Shabari Episode

Manndakini Bora, Unveils Spiritual Anthem "Jai Siya Ram- Shabari Episode” to Usher in the New Year with Positivity* *the song was unveiled by Dr. Indresh Kumar Ji- Sanrakshak - RSS as the Cheif Guest and  Manoj Tiwari Ji- MR BJP/ Actor was present as the Guest of Honour.

*Manndakini Bora expresses her inspiration behind the song, stating* _"*Manndakini Bora expresses her inspiration behind the song, stating* _"The truest inspiration of conceptualizing 'Jai Siya Ram' series of project comes from my grandfather (Late) Sh Girindra Nath Bora who is the ONLY devotee to translate entire 'Ram Charit Manas by Shri Tulsidas ji, in Assamese language. And the reason behind starting series with "Shabari Milan" episode is that this is the only event in entire story, wherein in Prabhu Ram has explained to Shabari ji the path of association with God through 'Navadha Bhakti'. Just like Lord Krishna had explained to Arjun in Mahabharat and Bhakt Prahlad to Hiranyakashyap. Shabari Milan is actually the essence of incarnation of Lord Vishnu as Lord Ram in Treta Yug. I aimed to create a musical journey that not only captivates the soul but also serves as a source of positivity and tranquility. As we embark on a new year, may this spiritual offering bring joy and peace to all who listen”.

Producer Prateek Sharma: Rabb Se Hai Dua is not going off air and gearing up for six months leap

Producer Prateek Sharma who got married last month with Ruchika Mishra in Indore is back to Mumbai and is very much focused on his three shows. There is again buzz resurfaced about Rabb Se Hai Dua going off air. Producer Prateek Sharma says, "Rabb Se Hai Dua is doing fine. Audiences are loving the storyline and it has a lot of scope for the story. Unnecessary someone is spreading rumours. I want to clarify it is not going off air and we are working on the new twist and turns. The show is gearing up for six months leap".
The show premiered in November 2022 and centres around the lives of Haider, who is married to Dua, but remarries. It focuses on the relationship between him, Dua and his second wife Ghazal. The show premiered last year and won hearts right since its inception for its unique storyline and amazing performances. The lead cast includes Karanvir Sharma, Aditi Sharma and Richa Rathore. Prateek Sharma has three shows on air namely Pyar Ka Pehla Adhyay Shiv Shakti, Pyar Ka Pehla Naam :Radha Mohan and Rabb Se Hai Dua and all are being loved by audiences. Prateek further adds, " New Year 2024 has just started. I wish peace and happiness to all. The TV industry has evolved in terms of content and in the coming months we surely want to come up with more content and diversify".

Explore the celebrities' favourite locations with Hello Bollywood

Mumbai, 5th January 2024: The Bollywood madness is now back with the Box Office seeing hits like Tiger 3, Gadar 2 and Jawan amongst many others. Stars are enticing the viewers and as this craze takes over the country, Zee Café, known to bring the best shows from across the world, is now all set to telecast Hello Bollywood. To take the audiences on a voyage across all Bollywood’s favourite destinations, the show will run every Saturday and Sunday at 7:00 PM started 6th January.
Hello Bollywood, an iconic travel show, but with a difference. Since the inception of Television, audiences have seen multiple travel-related shows, but this property is unique in itself as it explores places that are dear to Bollywood. Locations of iconic scenes to favourite destinations of celebrities, all will be explored during December weekends. The series has 13 episodes, capturing 17 cities where Bollywood has predominantly shot films till now. So, Bollywood Buffs, do not miss out!