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Sawan Da Mela: A Vibrant Celebration of Punjab’s Rich Heritage (in Mumbai) – INDIAN NEWS & TIMES

Organized by Savy Kaur- Chairperson of Punjabi Cultural Group (Mumbai Ladies), Ravleen K Sabharwal- President of Punjabi Cultural Group (Mumbai Ladies), and Manjeet Kahai- Vice President and Event Coordinator of Punjabi Cultural Group (Mumbai Ladies)
As part of the Sawan Da Mela event, attendees had the opportunity to witness a live performance by the very popular artist Poonam Bhatia. The celebration also saw the presence of actors like Bhagyashree P, Upasna Singh, Sheeba Akashdeep Sabir, Kiran Bawa, Gurpreet Kaur Chadha, Pawanpreet Kaur and many more
26th August 2023 in Mumbai- The Punjabi Cultural Group (Mumbai Ladies) proudly presents “Sawan Da Mela,” an event that epitomizes the essence of Punjab’s cultural richness, unity, and diversity in Mumbai. The event, organized by the dedicated community organization Punjabi Cultural Group (Mumba Ladies) aims to showcase the heartwarming traditions of Punjab through captivating activities.
PCG (Mumbai Ladies) is committed to preserving and promoting the vibrant cultural heritage of Punjab. Through a diverse range of engaging activities, PCG (Mumbai Ladies) strives to educate, entertain, and foster unity among people from all backgrounds. By celebrating traditional arts, music, dance, and cuisines, PCG (Mumbai Ladies) bridges generational gaps and ensures that the spirit of Punjab continues to flourish in Mumbai.
PCG (Mumbai Ladies) warmly welcomes individuals from all walks of life to participate in fostering an atmosphere of unity and mutual understanding. The organization encourages embracing the past while celebrating the present, creating a brighter future that values cultural diversity and shared heritage.
“Savy Kaur, Chairperson of Punjabi Cultural Group (Mumbai Ladies), expresses“Sawan Da Mela is more than an event; it’s a heartfelt celebration that captures the very essence of Punjab’s cultural opulence, unity, and the beautiful tapestry of diversity that defines us. Through this event, we aim to weave together traditions, stories, and joy, fostering a sense of belonging and shared heritage”
Ravleen K Sabharwal, President of Punjabi Cultural Group (Mumbai Ladies), enthusiastically states “Sawan Da Mela stands as a testament to Punjab’s cultural opulence, unity, and the vibrant mosaic of diversity within our community. This event radiates the spirit of togetherness and reflects our commitment to cherishing and sharing the treasures of our heritage”
Manjeet Kahai, Vice President/ event coordinator of Punjabi Cultural Group (Mumbai Ladies) affirms “Sawan Da Mela resonates with the very soul of Punjab’s cultural splendor, weaving together threads of unity and celebrating the beautiful medley of our diverse traditions. This event encapsulates our collective journey of embracing our roots while embracing one another”
Celebrate Karthigai Maha Deepam Virtually with Sri Mandir’s LIVE Darshan Experience

Celebrating the eternal triumph of light over darkness, the sacred festival of Karthigai Maha Deepam holds profound spiritual significance for millions of devotees. Sri Mandir, India’s largest devotional platform, proudly announces a special initiative for devotees to partake in the Karthigai Maha Deepam LIVE Darshan Special on Friday, December 13, 2024. This sacred event, timed with the auspicious Karthigai Maha Deepam Tithi, allows devotees to virtually witness the Arunachala Teerth Shiva Parvati Kalyanam, Maha Rudra Homa, and the LIVE Darshan of the Arunachaleshwara Deepam from the holy town of Tiruvannamalai, Tamil Nadu.
Karthigai Maha Deepam, a festival symbolizing divine light, is celebrated across South India with unmatched fervor. The event culminates at the Arunachaleswarar Temple, where the grand lighting of the Maha Deepam atop the sacred Arunachalam hill draws millions of devotees each year. Rooted in the legend of Lord Shiva’s manifestation as a Jyotirlinga (fire pillar), the festival embodies the triumph of light over darkness and offers a pathway to inner illumination and liberation from the karmic cycle.
Sri Mandir’s initiative bridges tradition and technology, enabling devotees worldwide to join this spiritual journey. The live Darshan Special includes the performance of the Maha Rudra Homa, believed to dispel negativity and attract prosperity, and the Arunachala Teerth Shiva Parvati Kalyanam, a sacred ritual that invokes divine blessings for peace and wisdom. Participants can meditate, chant mantras, or recite stotras alongside the rituals, fostering a deeper connection with Lord Shiva.
“Spirituality becomes meaningful when it is accessible to everyone. The Karthigai Maha Deepam LIVE Darshan Special allows devotees to experience this sacred festival from anywhere, bringing faith and connection closer to their lives. This initiative reflects our commitment to making spiritual experiences available to all, no matter where they are.” Prashant Sachan, Founder & CEO of Sri Mandir said
Sri Mandir invites devotees to embrace the transformative energy of Karthigai Maha Deepam and witness the divine light of the Arunachaleshwara Deepam through its platform. The LIVE Darshan will be accessible via the Sri Mandir app, ensuring a seamless and immersive spiritual experience. Join this sacred celebration and let the eternal light of Lord Shiva guide you toward peace, prosperity, and liberation.
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Bollywood Divas Nailing the Sleek Pulled-Back Hairstyle

In the realm of Bollywood fashion, hairstyles play a significant role in completing a star’s glamorous look. One style that has been making waves recently is the sleek pulled-back hairstyle. Several leading ladies of Bollywood have been spotted donning this chic and sophisticated look, effortlessly elevating their ensemble and exuding elegance on and off the red carpet.
Kiara Advani:
Kiara Advani graced an event in a stunning red evening gown, perfectly complemented by her sleek bun. The simplicity of the hairstyle accentuated her features and allowed her outfit to take center stage. It’s a testament to how a sleek bun can add a touch of refinement to any ensemble.
Alia Bhatt:
Alia Bhatt opted for a pulled-back ponytail adorned with a cute hair clip, pairing it with a knee-length black dress. This understated yet stylish look showcased her playful side while maintaining an air of sophistication. The simplicity of the hairstyle allowed her natural beauty to shine through, making a statement without overpowering her overall look
Deepika Padukone:
Deepika Padukone looked utterly stunning in her sleek bun paired with a classic black and white saree. The simplicity of the hairstyle allowed her natural beauty to shine through, while the addition of winged eyeliner added a touch of drama to her look. It’s a timeless and elegant hairstyle that complements any traditional attire effortlessly.
National Cinema Day Returns With Movies For Just ₹99

Mark your calendars for Friday, September 20th, as The Multiplex Association of India (MAI) and Cinemas all over India unite once again to bring you National Cinema Day. This exciting day promises an unforgettable movie marathon for all movie enthusiasts for just Rs 99/- per admission.
Building on the resounding success of the previous two editions, which saw a record number of over 6 million admissions, National Cinema Day this year will unfold across more than 4000 participating screens, including renowned cinemas like PVR INOX, CINEPOLIS, MIRAJ, CITYPRIDE, ASIAN, MUKTA A2, MOVIE TIME, WAVE, MOVIEMAX, M2K, DELITE, and many others.
This special occasion brings audiences of all ages together for a day of cinematic bliss, celebrating the incredible success of multiple films at the box office this year. It’s a heartfelt “thank you” to all the moviegoers who contributed to this success and an open invitation to those who haven’t yet returned to their local cinema.
National Cinema Day 2024 promises an exciting lineup of films for every movie lover. With a mix of blockbusters, anticipated sequels, and timeless classics, the day will showcase movies like Transformers One, Never Let Go, Yudhra, Stree 2, Tumbbad, Veer Zaara, Kahan Shuru Kahan Khatam, and The Buckingham Murders. Regional films like Navra Maza Navsacha – 2, Sucha Soorma and Ardaas Sarbat De Bhale Di add to the diverse offering. Whether you’re in the mood for action, romance, or drama, this year’s National Cinema Day has something for everyone to enjoy on the big screen!
Stay tuned for additional details around exciting offers or exclusions (if any), which will be revealed at the participating cinemas, on their websites, and via their social media channels. Be sure to follow #NationalCinemaDay for the latest announcements and updates.
Get ready to immerse yourself in the world of cinema on National Cinema Day – an unforgettable day at the movies awaits!
ICAI elects New Torchbearers for the year 2025-26

The 26th Council of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of India (ICAI) today elected its new President & Vice-President for the term 2025-26.
CA. Charanjot Singh Nanda has been elected as the President, ICAI and CA. Prasanna Kumar D has been elected as the Vice-President, ICAI w.e.f. February 12, 2025.
The oath of office was administered by Shri Arjun Ram Meghwal, Hon’ble Minister of State (I/C) for Law & Justice and Parliamentary Affairs. On the occasion, the Hon’ble Minister congratulated the newly elected President and Vice-President, ICAI and said, “I am confident that under your able leadership, India will move closer to realizing the vision of Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi Ji to become the world’s third-largest economy.”
Brief profile & photograph of CA. Charanjot Singh Nanda, President, ICAI & CA. Prasanna Kumar D, Vice- President, ICAI are attached.
Celebrate Onam the Authentic Way at ‘Backyard All Day Diner

This Saturday, 30th August | 12:00 PM – 4:00 PM, join us for a traditional Onam Sadhya – a grand vegetarian feast served the classic way on a banana leaf, with over a dozen soulful dishes that bring the true flavors of Kerala to your plate.

ALL ABOUT Backyard All Day Diner
An upbeat place with good music and exquisitely delicious food, a vibe in itself.
The wait is almost over… Onam is here, and so is the feast of the year!
Imagine sitting with your loved ones, a banana leaf in front of you, and over 20+ traditional delicacies being served one by one – flavors that celebrate culture, tradition, and togetherness.

This 30th August, Saturday | 12 PM – 4 PM, join us at Backyard All Day Diner for an unforgettable Onam Sadhya – festive décor, authentic flavors, and memories you’ll cherish.
IN THE PAST : In the lush, green landscape of Kerala, the festival of Onam is celebrated with unparalleled joy.

Its heart beats in the legend of the benevolent King Mahabali, who was banished to the netherworld but was granted permission to visit his people once a year.
To welcome their beloved king, the people of Kerala lay out a magnificent feast: the Onam Sadhya. More than just a meal, the sadhya is a grand, vegetarian banquet that symbolizes the abundance and prosperity of Mahabali’s golden era.

Onam Sadhya at the BACKYARD – ALL DAY DINER
The preparation for the sadhya is a communal affair that begins well in advance. In the days leading up to Thiruvonam, the most auspicious day of the 10-day festival, families come together.

The kitchen becomes a lively hub of activity, with ingredients like fresh coconut, jaggery, yams, and a variety of lentils being meticulously prepared.
For the children, the anticipation builds with each passing day, as the aromas of ginger, tamarind, and coconut oil fill the air.
The grand feast is served on a fresh banana leaf, which is placed on the floor, tapering end to the left of the guest.

On Thiruvonam day, everyone gathers, dressed in traditional attire, and sits on mats or the floor, ready to partake in the culinary extravaganza.
This act of eating together on the floor reflects the humility and equality that characterized King Mahabali’s reign.

The placement of each dish on the leaf is a precise art, passed down through generations.
The magnificent spread of the Onam Sadhya
A traditional sadhya features between 26 and 28 dishes, a testament to Kerala’s rich culinary diversity.

Each dish offers a unique flavor profile, and together they create a perfectly balanced symphony of tastes—from sweet and salty to sour and spicy.
Accompaniments and pickles
The meal begins with an array of crunchy and tangy delights placed along the top of the banana leaf.

Kaaya Varuthathu: Classic, thin banana chips, fried until crispy in coconut oil.
Sharkara Varatti: A sweeter, thicker version of banana chips, coated in a dark, flavorful jaggery syrup.
Inji Curry: A pungent and spicy ginger pickle made with a blend of ginger, tamarind, and jaggery.

Achaar: The spread typically includes both a mango pickle (Manga Curry) and a sour lime pickle (Naranga Curry).
Pappadam: Crispy, round lentil crackers that are a staple of the sadhya.
Salt: A small pinch of salt is placed on the leaf to start, a symbolic beginning.

Curries and main dishes
The main course is a collection of gravies, stir-fries, and stews, each with its own distinctive taste and texture.
Parippu Curry: A simple yet comforting dish made from yellow moong lentils, seasoned and topped with a generous spoonful of ghee.

Sambar: A tangy and aromatic vegetable stew made with lentils, tamarind, and a variety of vegetables like drumsticks and pumpkin.
Avial: A dense mixture of assorted vegetables (including yam, carrot, and raw banana), cooked with coconut, green chilies, and curd, and drizzled with coconut oil.
Olan: A mild, light curry of white gourd and black-eyed peas, simmered gently in coconut milk.

Kalan: A thick, sour curry made with yogurt and a single vegetable like yam or raw plantain.
Pulissery: A thinner, tangy curry, often made with buttermilk and a sour fruit or vegetable, like mango or cucumber.
Erissery: A thick, flavorful curry made with pumpkin, black-eyed peas, and a generous amount of grated coconut.

Kootu Curry: A thick, dry curry made from black chickpeas, yam, and raw banana, finished with roasted coconut.
Thoran: A dry stir-fry of finely chopped vegetables such as cabbage, carrots, or beans, sautéed with grated coconut and spices.

Mezhukkupuratti: A simple preparation of stir-fried vegetables, like beans or raw banana, with spices.
Choru: Steamed Kerala red rice, the centerpiece of the meal, around which all the other dishes are arranged.

Digestives and desserts
After the main course, the feast continues with a final, refreshing round of items to aid digestion.
Typically, more than one type is served. Some popular varieties include:

Rasam: A spicy, watery soup made with tamarind, tomatoes, and spices, served at the end of the meal to help with digestion.Moru: A spiced buttermilk served to cool the palate.Payasam: The grand finale. Palada Pradhaman: A creamy, sweet dessert made with rice flakes and milk.Ada Pradhaman: Rice flakes cooked in jaggery and coconut milk.Pazham Pradhaman: A dessert made with ripe bananas, jaggery, and coconut milk.Poovan Pazham: A small, ripe banana is served to be eaten with the payasam, or mashed with it for an extra burst of flavor.
The ritual of serving and eating

The intricate order of serving and the precise placement of each dish add to the sadhya’s ritualistic charm.
The crisps and pickles are served first, followed by the main curries, and finally the rice.
When the diners are seated, the servers make their rounds with large containers, adding spoonfuls of each delicacy to the leaves.

The communal and ceremonial nature of the meal enhances the experience, turning it into a truly unforgettable celebration of togetherness.
After the meal, the banana leaf is folded inward, a gesture that signifies satisfaction and appreciation for the feast.The Onam Sadhya is a time-honored tradition that captures the essence of Kerala’s culture and the spirit of King Mahabali’s bountiful and harmonious rule.
The Legacy of Sai Sannidhi to Backyard All Day Diner

In 1969, Mr. Krishna Puthran and Smt. Sita Puthran laid the foundation of Sai Sannidhi, a humble lunch home at Dahisar Check Naka. Back then, Dahisar was a bustling check post for octroi collection and an emerging industrial hub.
Sai Sannidhi became a comforting stop for truck drivers, daily wage workers, and locals, serving hearty, home-style Mangalorean meals at affordable prices.
In 1992, their son Santosh Puthran took charge and transformed the simple eatery into a restaurant and bar, keeping the soul of traditional food alive while adapting to the changing times.
The story took a fresh turn in 2020, when Suchitra Puthran joined in and reinvented a portion of the space. She envisioned a warm, stylish, and family-friendly dining section—thus was born Backyard All Day Diner.
Today, the diner has become a vibrant hangout spot for Gen Z and millennials, offering crafted beer, Mangalorean & Goan delicacies, Continental, and Oriental cuisine.
What began as a modest lunch home for laborers and truckers has now blossomed into a modern food destination—carrying forward the Puthran family’s legacy of hospitality across generations.

Courtesy : In Conversation with the ‘Restaurateur duo ‘Suchitra & Santosh Puthran at the ‘Backyard All Day Diner at Dahisar, Mumbai, India.
Škoda Auto India ensures complete ‘Peace of Mind’ along with all-new value proposition

There is no resting at Škoda Auto India. Fresh after the introduction of the Kylaq sub-4m SUV and partnering with actor Ranveer Singh as its first-ever Brand Superstar, the company with India’s fully-tested 5-star fleet is not taking its foot off the throttle. With 2025 marking the brand’s 130-years globally and 25 in India, Škoda Auto India has unleashed an array of high value propositions both in terms of its ownership and product for its Kylaq, Kushaq and Slavia range. The upgrades further embody the company’s New Era in India.
Speaking on the new development, Petr Janeba, Brand Director, Škoda Auto India said, “This is the New Era in action here at Škoda Auto India. In our milestone year where we are celebrating 25 years in India and 130 in the world, our drive continues to be towards our customers, and towards enhancing their experience with driving and owning Škoda cars. While we are tremendously excited with the Kylaq and in welcoming Ranveer Singh as our first-ever Brand Superstar, we continue to focus on getting closer and listening to our customers. These updates focus on providing our customers and fans immense value and features with a seamless and unmatched ownership and maintenance proposition.”
The Kushaq ups the value ante
The company’s first-ever product on the bespoke for India MQB-A0-IN platform, the Kushaq now starts at ₹ 10,99,000 with several key additions in its entry and mid variants. With staying connected being very nearly the equivalent of oxygen today, every single iteration of the Kushaq gets connectivity as standard right from the base Classic trim. As you take one step above into the Kushaq with the Onyx, customers will see the addition of R16 alloys to its list of features.
Moreover, features like the Electric Sunroof, Alloy Wheels (R17), auto-dimming IRVM, Rain Sensing Wipers and Rear fog lamps that were earlier only available in the top-of-the-line Prestige variant and Monte Carlo editions are now available in the mid-level Signature trim. With this, Škoda Auto India severely increases the value proposition for the Kushaq. The value assault continues with the Kushaq getting armed with a 5-year/125 000 km standard warranty, whichever earlier.
The Slavia keeps pace with value
The sporty Slavia sedan sees its engines revving to stay on the path of enhanced value with several upgrades across its range. This sedan now sees prices start at ₹ 10,34,000. And keeping the always-on world in mind, Škoda Auto India has equipped every trim of the Slavia with Connectivity as standard. Also, standard is a 3-year/100 000 km, whichever earlier, warranty in line with the all-new Kylaq.
Taking customer feedback into account, Škoda Auto India has incorporated key conveniences like the Electric Sunroof, LED headlamps with DRLs, Rain Sensing Wipers and auto-dimming IRVM in the mid-trim Signature version itself. With this, the brand treads on its New Era of enhancing value for its customers and its fans.
Supercare — compliments Škoda Auto India
In addition to these features and enhanced value, all customers who purchase the Kylaq, Kushaq or Slavia will receive the Supercare package at zero cost. Added to the updated list of features, value and warranties, the complimentary Supercare package provides a massive boost in savings for customers when it comes to scheduled service. Customers and fans can avail of this complimentary package for one year.
While these are significant product and ownership upgrades in the Kylaq, Kushaq and Slavia, all Škoda cars continue to offer six airbags as standard across all variants and boast a full 5-stars for both adults and children in safety tests. The Slavia and Kushaq have a full 5-stars for adults and children in the Global NCAP safety tests, while the Kylaq scores the highest in its segment in the latest Bharat NCAP safety tests for both adults and children, continuing the Škoda Auto India legacy of a fully 5-star safe car fleet.
Unlock Irresistible Offers with Mia by Tanishq’s ‘Never Before Sale’

Mia by Tanishq, one of India’s leading fine jewellery brands, is thrilled to announce its ‘Never Before Sale’. This exclusive offer provides customers with up to 110% off on making charges*, presenting a unique opportunity to own stylish jewellery at sweet selling price-points. With a wide array of stunning designs to choose from, this sale is set to delight jewellery enthusiasts like never before.
Get your hands on this one-of-a-kind offer – on the purchase of 1 piece of jewellery, get 50% off on making charges, buy 2 pieces and get 100% off on making charges, and buy 4 pieces to get the lowest priced piece for free. Exchange your old Tanishq or Mia product and get an additional 10% off on the above offers. The sale, set to go live on 18th July, underscores Mia by Tanishq’s dedication to providing value to its customers. Shop in-store to make the best of this sale and a rewarding shopping experience.
With this special offer, indulge in stunning designs encompassing a variety of assortments like studs, finger rings, bracelets, earrings, ear cuffs, necklaces, and pendants. The range showcases elegant pieces with sparkling diamonds set in dazzling gold jewellery. From parties to anniversaries, cocktail evenings, and birthdays, make every moment special with Mia by Tanishq.
As the season sets the tone for celebration and love, explore the cosmic-inspired ‘Starburst’ collection in 14-karat gold with over 200 designs or Mia’s ‘Nature’s Finest’ collection inspired by the beauty of vertical gardens, city parks, and urban forests or own your unique style with diamond Zodiac pendants. This is the perfect moment to stock up on unique and stylish jewelry for all your cherished moments – from Rakhi gifts, wedding presents, and bridal favors to festive occasions like Vara Mahalakshmi and Onam. Whether you prefer minimalistic designs or bold pieces, Mia offers something that resonates with your style and your loved ones.
This season, let your gifts be accompanied by smiles, warm hugs, and an abundance of love, all wrapped up in Mia by Tanishq’s elegant jewellery pieces. Don’t miss Mia’s ‘Never Before Sale’! Hurry, as this exclusive offer is only valid till July 30th, 2024.
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