Tag: Washington

Films

Goan Documentary “Bhaangar: Kalakusar Karigiri” Nominated at NanoCon Film Fest 2025

Tanisha Cardozo

A Goan short documentary celebrating the artistry of traditional goldsmiths has earned international recognition. “Bhaangar: Kalakusar Karigiri” has received a nomination at the prestigious NanoCon International Film Festival (NIFF) 2025, held in the state of Washington, USA.

Now in its 7th edition, NIFF is an independent film celebration hosted by the Lower Columbia Rotaract Club. This year’s edition received a staggering 2,964 short film entries from 194 countries — and only 100 films were selected as finalists. Among these, “Bhaangar: Kalakusar Karigiri” represents a proud moment for Goan storytelling and Indian student cinema.

Directed, narrated, and shot by Prachi Shirodkar, the documentary was edited by Mario Pimenta and created as part of a college project at Don Bosco College, Panjim, under the mentorship of Agnelo Raymond D’Souza.

The documentary provides a sensitive, in-depth look into the experiences and techniques of Goan artisans working in the gold industry. Featuring candid interviews with goldsmiths Virendra Rivankar, Rashila Shirodkar, and Pranay Shirodkar, the film explores the nuances of craftsmanship, generational knowledge, and the passion that keeps these ancient skills alive.

The nomination at NIFF marks the film’s first international selection and offers a spotlight on Goa’s lesser-told artisanal heritage. With strong storytelling, visual empathy, and cultural relevance, “Bhaangar: Kalakusar Karigiri” joins a distinguished lineup of films from around the world that celebrate identity, tradition, and innovation through independent cinema.

For a film that started as a college project, this achievement is a testament to the power of local stories told with authenticity and heart.

#AllycaralFeature 👒

Ambanis Meet President-Elect Trump: A New Era of India-US Relations

allycaralgoa

In a significant gesture of goodwill and cooperation, Indian business leaders Mukesh Ambani and his wife Nita Ambani attended a private reception in Washington, where they extended their warmest congratulations to President-Elect Donald Trump ahead of his inauguration.

The Ambanis, who are prominent figures in Indian business and philanthropy, expressed their shared optimism with President-Elect Trump for deeper India-US relations, wishing him a transformative term of leadership that would pave the way for unprecedented progress and collaboration between the two nations.

This meeting assumes great significance, given the importance of India-US relations in promoting regional stability, security, and economic growth. The Trump administration has identified India as a crucial partner in the region, and this encounter highlights the growing convergence of interests between the two nations.

A New Era of Cooperation

The Ambanis’ presence at the reception underscores the growing economic ties between India and the US. Bilateral trade between the two nations has been on the rise, with the US emerging as one of India’s largest trading partners. Indian companies, including those led by the Ambanis, have made significant investments in the US, creating jobs and driving economic growth.

As President-Elect Trump prepares to take office, this meeting sends a positive signal about the future of India-US relations. With their vast business experience and philanthropic efforts, the Ambanis are well-positioned to play a key role in promoting cooperation and understanding between the two nations.

A Shared Vision for Progress

The Ambanis’ conversation with President-Elect Trump reflects their shared vision for progress and cooperation between India and the US. As the world’s largest democracy and the world’s oldest democracy, respectively, India and the US have a unique opportunity to work together on issues of mutual concern, from terrorism and climate change to trade and economic development.

As the Trump administration begins its term, this meeting marks an important step forward in India-US relations. With their commitment to cooperation and progress, the Ambanis and President-Elect Trump have set the stage for a new era of collaboration and achievement between the two nations.