Tag: Art

Business

Mrs Sangita Jindal Conferred France’s Prestigious Knight of the Order of Arts and Letters

Tanisha Cardozo

In a moment of pride for India’s arts and heritage community, Mrs Sangita Jindal, Chairperson of the JSW Foundation, has been awarded the prestigious Chevalier de l’Ordre des Arts et des Lettres (Knight of the Order of Arts and Letters) by the French government. The honour was presented by the Ambassador of France to India, H.E. Mr Thierry Mathou, at a private ceremony at Mrs Jindal’s residence in Mumbai on September 25, 2025.

This recognition acknowledges Mrs Jindal’s exceptional contribution to the preservation and promotion of art, culture, and heritage in India, as well as her dedication to building meaningful Indo-French cultural collaborations. As the head of the JSW Foundation, she has integrated cultural engagement into the very fabric of the Foundation’s mission, transforming heritage conservation and the cultural landscape of India with deep vision and commitment.

Mrs Jindal has notably fostered artistic exchanges between India and France through initiatives like the artist residencies at Hampi Art Labs. In 2024, she collaborated with France during the Paris Olympic Games to highlight the intersection of art and sport, and later this year, she will participate in the exhibition “Textile Matters” at the Mobilier National in Paris.

Presenting the honour, Ambassador Thierry Mathou said, “Through her passion, vision and generosity, Mrs Jindal has profoundly enriched the cultural landscape of India and brought our two countries closer together. This decoration reflects France’s deep gratitude and admiration for her achievements and her commitment to building cultural bridges.”

Mrs Jindal accepted the award with humility, stating, “I am deeply honoured to receive this recognition from France. It reaffirms my commitment to safeguarding India’s heritage while fostering meaningful cultural bridges between our two nations. Heritage is a living resource that connects generations, and I remain dedicated to ensuring it continues to inspire the future.”

Beyond this accolade, Mrs Jindal’s work speaks for itself. Her leadership has guided the restoration of iconic sites like the UNESCO World Heritage site of Hampi, the Keneseth Eliyahoo synagogue, and the Sassoon Library in Mumbai. She has been instrumental in launching cultural platforms such as Art India magazine and the Kala Ghoda Arts Festival, and in creating spaces for dialogue through exhibitions like “Woven Narratives” during India’s G20 Presidency. She is also supporting the establishment of a museum in Assam dedicated to regional crafts.

The Ordre des Arts et des Lettres is one of the highest French honours in the realm of arts and literature, awarded to individuals who have made significant contributions to the arts, or to the promotion of culture in France and around the world. Previous Indian recipients of this honour include Aishwarya Rai Bachchan, Shah Rukh Khan, Pt. Hariprasad Chaurasia, and Bharti Kher.

With this recognition, Mrs Sangita Jindal joins an illustrious list of global cultural leaders. Her vision continues to inspire a new generation of changemakers who see culture not as legacy alone, but as a living force that shapes the future.

EduConnect

NIO Goa to Host Open Day on 26th September, Students Invited to Marine Resources Exhibition

Tanisha Cardozo

The Council of Scientific and Industrial Research-National Institute of Oceanography (CSIR-NIO), Goa, is gearing up to celebrate its 84th Foundation Day with a special Open Day event on the 26th of September. The event will take place at the NIO campus in Dona Paula, from 9:30 am to 3:00 pm, and promises to be an engaging experience for students and the wider community interested in the fascinating field of oceanography.

As part of the celebrations, the institute has extended a warm invitation to students from across the state to take part in an exhibition dedicated to marine resources and scientific instruments. This exhibition will highlight the latest scientific endeavors in ocean research, showcasing the tools and techniques used by scientists to study and preserve the ocean environment.

In addition to the exhibition, students will have the opportunity to watch a series of films related to ocean sciences, providing an immersive and educational insight into marine ecosystems, oceanography, and the importance of sustainable marine resource management.

A key highlight of the day will be a talk titled ‘Careers in Oceanography,’ designed to inspire and inform young minds about the various career paths available in this dynamic and critical field. The talk aims to encourage students to consider oceanography as a viable and exciting career option, emphasizing the role of scientific research in addressing global challenges such as climate change, marine biodiversity loss, and sustainable development.

The CSIR’s mission to enhance the quality of life in India through innovative, competitive, and sustainable scientific solutions is deeply embedded in the institute’s work. By promoting awareness and education through events like the Open Day, CSIR-NIO continues to support the vision of Atmanirbhar Bharat, fostering self-reliance through scientific and technological advancements.

This Open Day presents a unique opportunity for students and the public to connect with leading oceanographers, explore cutting-edge research, and understand the critical role oceans play in sustaining life on Earth. The event underlines CSIR-NIO’s commitment to nurturing scientific curiosity and empowering the next generation of ocean scientists and researchers.

All students, educators, and marine science enthusiasts are encouraged to participate in this free event to celebrate science, innovation, and the vast mysteries of the ocean.

Human Interest

Selena Gomez and Benny Blanco Set to Wed in Santa Barbara on September 27

Tanisha Cardozo

Selena Gomez and Benny Blanco are reportedly preparing to tie the knot on September 27 at a private estate in Santa Barbara, California. According to sources cited by The Sun, the ceremony will be a tightly managed affair, with guests being transported to a secret venue without knowing the exact destination beforehand. Excitement around the event continues to build despite the mystery, as insiders describe the atmosphere among invitees as “buzzing with anticipation.”

The luxurious El Encanto hotel, where guests are expected to stay, is already fully booked for the final weekend of September. With rooms reportedly costing around $3,500 per night, the hotel offers a secluded and upscale setting that matches the tone of the private ceremony. The actual wedding site, however, remains undisclosed to maintain privacy.

Though Gomez and Blanco’s teams have yet to confirm the reported plans, signs of an impending wedding have been surfacing in recent weeks. Earlier this month, Selena Gomez was spotted in Cabo San Lucas, Mexico, celebrating her bachelorette party alongside close friends Racquelle Stevens, Ashley Cook, and Courtney Lopez. Shared photos captured the singer dressed in various white outfits, including a mini dress, white bikini, and cover-up, during a yacht celebration.

Meanwhile, Benny Blanco reportedly held his bachelor party in Las Vegas, renting a villa for $25,000 a night, according to TMZ. Both celebrations have added fuel to the wedding speculation, with fans closely watching social media and press coverage for updates.

The couple, who announced their engagement in December 2024 after more than a year of dating, have largely kept details of their relationship private. At the time of the proposal, Gomez posted images of her diamond engagement ring with the caption “forever begins now.” Friends, including Taylor Swift, publicly celebrated the news, with Swift jokingly offering to be the flower girl — a moment that drew widespread attention from fans.

While Swift’s presence at the wedding has not been confirmed, she is expected to attend, given her close friendship with Gomez. For now, the venue remains secret, the guest list unconfirmed, and the anticipation sky-high.

Fit & Fabulous

The 61 Most Iconic Emmy Awards Red Carpet Looks of the Past 15 Years

Tanisha Cardozo

With the 77th Primetime Emmy Awards just around the corner, hosted by comedian Nate Bargatze, all eyes are turning to the red carpet once again. Over the past 15 years, the Emmys have delivered some of the most unforgettable fashion moments in award show history, with bold, glamorous, and sometimes daring choices that continue to resonate far beyond a single evening.

Back in 2009, Blake Lively, despite not being a nominee, stole the spotlight in a sultry Versace gown featuring a plunging neckline and a dramatic high slit. Around the same time, Heidi Klum evoked Old Hollywood in a striking John Galliano for Christian Dior Couture dress that oozed Rita Hayworth-inspired elegance. Sarah Jessica Parker and Jennifer Aniston both embraced soft, romantic aesthetics in Chanel, perfectly complemented by tousled beachy waves.

Sequins and sparkle have never gone out of fashion at the Emmys. Mischa Barton, Keri Russell, and Kerry Washington all dazzled in full-sequined gowns, while stars like Julianne Moore in Christian Dior Couture and Claire Danes in Lanvin embraced vivid colors with confidence. Allison Williams’ Oscar de la Renta moment and Katie Holmes in minimalist Calvin Klein also proved that bold hues can be incredibly sophisticated.

Kiernan Shipka made a fashion-forward splash in 2013 with an architectural Delpozo dress that felt modern yet youthful. Gwen Stefani’s metallic Atelier Versace gown in 2014 brought edgy detailing to the fore, just as Lady Gaga later redefined elegance in a Brandon Maxwell black gown with an asymmetric neckline that flattered her petite frame and signature drama.

Color took center stage in 2018, particularly in the form of voluminous gowns. Tracee Ellis Ross made a powerful statement in pink Valentino Haute Couture, while Thandiwe Newton opted for a sleek, sculptural look by Brandon Maxwell. In 2021, Elizabeth Olsen wore a minimalist cape dress by The Row—designed by her sisters Mary-Kate and Ashley—while Emma Corrin broke the mold in Miu Miu, complete with a bonnet and dramatic manicure.

In more recent years, standout looks have continued to roll in. Ayo Edebiri’s 2024 Bottega Veneta leather gown was fresh, fearless, and bold, while Saoirse Ronan brought classic glamour in navy Louis Vuitton. Jessica Chastain shimmered in Gucci, Jenna Ortega stunned in Dior Couture, and Zendaya continued her reign as a red carpet queen in custom Valentino and later in Armani Privé.

These 61 red carpet looks from the Emmys aren’t just stylish—they represent the evolving language of fashion, femininity, and individuality on one of the industry’s most watched stages. With fashion playing an increasingly vital role in how stars present themselves, this year’s Emmys are sure to deliver more bold statements, high drama, and unforgettable moments.

Spotlight

Sharmila Coutinho: An Artist’s Journey Beyond Borders

Tanisha Cardozo

Written by Tanisha Cardozo

“Make art when no one cares. Make it raw, make it real.
That’s where your true voice takes shape—not through perfection, but through consistent, honest expression.” – Sharmila Coutinho

Sharmila Coutinho’s journey as an artist is one that beautifully blends resilience, creativity, and a deep sense of purpose. She recalls how drawing came naturally to her, never forced or taught, but simply present as her happy place—a space where the world made sense. At just seven years old, a simple Santa gift of a 24-shade colour set opened a world of endless hues and possibilities. That magic box was the first spark that set her on a path she would later choose to embrace fully.

Blooming Where She Was Planted

Encouraged by her mother, Sharmila joined Bal Bhavan, where her creativity was nurtured in countless ways, from the art studio to the music room, from clay modeling to the library where she first discovered Vincent van Gogh’s letters. These experiences shaped her perspective, revealing not only the struggles of an artist but also the beauty of persistence and self-expression. Although she initially chose the conventional path of science and computer studies, her heart was always drawn back to colour and canvas. Dropping out to pursue Fine Arts was one of the most defining choices of her life, one that came with struggles but also profound fulfillment.

Her path as an artist was far from smooth. She faced doubts—both her own and those of others—but chose to bloom where she was planted. She worked hard, supported herself, and learned the ways of the art market through experience and even through setbacks. Her studio in Goa became the place where her work reached people across the world—Spain, the UK, and beyond—all without her chasing opportunities. Instead, her art spoke for itself. Among her many milestones, two stand out: conceptualizing and designing the Lusofonia Games torch, a seashell-inspired piece that symbolized unity among coastal nations, and creating the official IFFI poster when the festival first came to Goa.

Today, Sharmila continues her creative journey as Deputy Infographic Editor at The Times of India, where she works with visionary editors and design professionals who recognize her talent. She sees art not as confined by borders but as an evolving practice of growth and expression. For her, creativity begins in silence, in stillness, and in the ability to declutter both the mind and surroundings. Travel, music, psychology, and deep conversations fuel her inspiration, while minimalism helps her maintain the clarity to create.

Creating for Meaning, Not Metrics

She acknowledges the challenges—self-doubt, external pressures, fleeting digital attention spans—but believes true growth lies in creating for meaning, not metrics. For aspiring artists, her advice is simple yet powerful: create when no one is watching, create without applause, and create because it fulfills you. Recognition may come, but fulfillment lies in the process itself.

Looking ahead, Sharmila hopes to reconnect with the tactile side of art after years of working in the digital realm. She dreams of returning to hands-on creation—painting, experimenting, and building with materials directly.

Her journey is ongoing, her canvas still open, and through it all, one truth remains: stay true, don’t lose yourself in the noise, and let your creativity continue to bloom without borders.