No Beggars this Commonwealth

Posted In: Anoobhuti Panda . By Journalism student

The Delhi government is trying its best to showcase the case of the city before the Commonwealth Games and the Anti Begging Drive seems to be another effort in the campaign.
Begging is a crime according to the Prevention of Begging Act 1959 and the government wants to get rid of the official 60,000 offenders before the Games begin. According to Chief Secretary Rakesh Mehta, the drive aims to rehabilitate the beggars in the city. Certain areas have been declared ‘zero-tolerance zones’ and the campaign is supposed to be implemented in areas such as Dhaula Kuan, Rajghat and AIIMS. The citizens are happy with this campaingn of the Government.This does not come as a surprise as begging still seems to be rampant in the city and the beggars completely unaware of any such drive.However, the Chief Secretary clarifies saying that the drive is being worked out in phases and the campaign is yet to become totally effective.

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Art Exposed

Posted In: Ankita Khare . By Journalism student

by Ankita Khare
54 galleries - 17 international ones, over Rs 40 million worth of art work. Almost 5000 footfalls each day. And huge sales...India Art Summit--the name still echoes in the art industry even after a week since it ended. The main attraction was the global appeal that the event had. Art pieces from around the world were available all under one roof.

The event was supported by Sotheby's in collaboration with organisations in support of the fine arts including Asia Art Archive, Asia Society, Lalit Kala Academy, The Devi Foundation, and The British Council. A well organised affair, India Art Summit was undoubtedly an event worth visiting. Check out the audio clip below to experience this grand fair. Know what was there what wasn't......

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Music in Jail

Posted In: Ankita Khare . By Journalism student

By Ankita Khare
Tihar jail---what comes to your mind when you hear this word. Violent prisoners? Harsh police officers? Fights? Injuries? Iron bars? Concrete?
Tihar’s Association Barrack (where under trials are kept) will break your belief. Lush green trees; a small library; carom board; TT Table and a silent ambience defines this ward.
What’s more now…. this place has Music too.
The jail authorities have brought in music therapy to reduce depression and criminal instincts among first time offenders.
Furthermore, the music also helps in keeping under trials away from the negative influences of other inmates held back for serious crimes.
To know more about music in jail, listen to the audio clip below.

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THE 62nd YEAR

Posted In: Kriti Gupta . By Journalism student

A kite market in celebration of independence day...

by Kriti Gupta

The great Indian democracy turned 62 this year. And the country celebrated this occasion with the same vigour as it does every year.

Prior to 15th August, several bazaars were organised with Independence day as the theme. These showcased all things Indian such as - chudis, mehndi, Indian street food and so on. There was a special kite gallery and even a space for Bollywood at some places.

Indian flags, kites and Bollywood...

On the day, the flag hoisting ceremony was held with Red Fort as a backdrop. The Prime Minister's speech focused on an integrated India that rejected sectarian politics. For most people though, it was a time to sit and home, laze around and enjoy the holiday (or take a vacation because of the long weekend).

Kite flying around this time predictably increased. However, on 15th August, the rain god played villain and dampened the spirits of kite flying enthusiasts in the morning. Later in the day, the weather cleared providing ample breeze for the sport and several competitions were held across the city of Delhi in celebration of Independence.

Independence has given us space to grow and freedom to breathe. Celebrations of this kind are only an ideal given the importance of this day in our history.

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Impressions of India at 62

Posted In: Niha Masih . By Journalism student

August 15th 1947 - India kept its tryst with destiny and it has been 62 long, eventful years since then. The significance of this day goes beyond a public holiday or playing patriotic songs on the radio.

India is a country of great paradoxes and all that exists in between. Perhaps herein lies its uniqueness, permit me to move over the brouhaha about being a multicultural, multiethnic, secular country. At 62, India is young, very young and herein lies our hope. The Great Indian Dream. Let us on this Independence Day, neither celebrate or berate, just look within. There is reason to cheer and many more reasons to reflect.