Pravasi Uttarakhand Sammelan 2024: Strengthening Bonds with the Uttarakhandi Diaspora for Cultural and Economic Development

Hillywood, Political |

The Pravasi Uttarakhand Sammelan was organized on November 7, 2024, in Dehradun, and was a key event designed to strengthen connections between the Uttarakhand government and members of the Uttarakhandi diaspora. Led by Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami, this conference brought together migrant Uttarakhandis from across India and various countries. The event aimed to involve the diaspora in the state’s development and enhance their engagement with Uttarakhand’s heritage, economy, and cultural initiatives.The recent Pravasi Uttarakhandi Sammelan was held at Doon University in Dehradun as part of Uttarakhand’s Foundation Day celebrations. Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami welcomed the state’s diaspora, recognizing their achievements across fields like education, industry, and defense. He highlighted prominent Uttarakhandis, such as National Security Advisor Ajit Doval and Chief of Defence Staff General Anil Chauhan, as examples of the community’s influence. The event aimed to strengthen connections between Uttarakhandi migrants and their roots, fostering their involvement in local development and preserving the state’s cultural heritage. Dhami also discussed ongoing developmental projects in Uttarakhand, including improvements in infrastructure and job creation, aligned with India’s broader growth vision for 2047. Initiatives such as the Rishikesh-Karnprayag rail project and the Uniform Civil Code were also highlighted to ensure growth and security in the state . To facilitate ongoing engagement, the state launched a dedicated website for the Pravasi Uttarakhand Cell, where information on state policies, programs, and ways to contribute is provided. This platform also offers links to relevant government programs to support migrant Uttarakhandis abroad, such as those from the Ministry of External Affairs. The state government is focused on using this network to recognize Uttarakhandis who have achieved distinction globally and to explore avenues for collaboration . The event reflects Uttarakhand’s commitment to fostering a supportive and collaborative relationship with its diaspora, emphasizing both cultural bonds and development opportunities. The Pravasi Uttarakhand Sammelan in Dehradun was attended by several key figures from the Uttarakhand government. Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami led the event, accompanied by Chief Secretary Radha Raturi and Secretary R. Meenakshi Sundaram. Other notable attendees included Dr. B.V.R.C. Purushottam, Director General of Information Banshidhar Tiwari, and Director of ITDA, Nitika Khandelwal. Members of the Pravasi Uttarakhand Cell, including Sudhir Chandra Nautiyal, were also present, alongside various officials from the Uttarakhand administration.

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Paresh Rawal Calls on CM Dhami: Talks on Tourism, Cinema, and Uttarakhand’s Growth

Bollywood, Hillywood |

Paresh Rawal recently visited Dehradun and met with Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami. The two discussed various issues, including the development of the Uttarakhand film industry, tourism promotion, and Rawal’s contributions to Indian cinema. Rawal, known for his acting and involvement in social issues, is often seen engaging with political leaders to support regional development initiatives. Their meeting highlights the growing importance of Uttarakhand as a hub for film shooting and cultural activities. During their meeting, Rawal praised the state’s new film-friendly policies, which aim to boost Uttarakhand as a prime destination for movie production. The actor has been actively involved in film shoots in the region and acknowledged the government’s efforts to simplify the process for acquiring shooting permits through a single-window system. He also mentioned the completion of two of his film projects in the state, which are now in post-production. The state’s film policy is designed to promote local tourism by encouraging filmmakers to use lesser-known locations, creating employment opportunities and fostering the local economy .

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Big News: Shakti Kapoor Inaugurates the Grand Ramleela by Lighting the LampDay 6 – Suparnakha Leela, Sita Haran Dehradun

Bollywood, Hillywood |

Bollywood star Shakti Kapoor inaugurated the sixth day of the grand Ramleela by lighting the ceremonial lamp. The performance was elevated by an incredible laser wall showcasing the “Lakshman Rekha” and digital sparks, creating a majestic ambiance. The historic Ramleela organized by the “Shri Ramkrishna Leela Samiti Tehri 1952, Dehradun (registered)” saw Shakti Kapoor as the chief guest, who was warmly welcomed on stage through a laser cave. On popular demand, he entertained the audience by delivering dialogues from his superhit films, and the crowd erupted in applause. The sixth day of the Ramleela featured the “Suparnakha Leela” and “Sita Haran” (the abduction of Sita). For the first time in Uttarakhand, the portrayal of the “Lakshman Rekha” with laser technology and digital sparks during Ravana’s crossing of the boundary mesmerized the audience. The scene depicting Sita’s abduction in a digital forest, complete with a hut, was extraordinary. Suparnakha’s dance also left the audience enthralled. The entire crowd was captivated by the innovative and technically advanced presentation. The performances of Ram, Lakshman, Ravana, Sita, and Suparnakha, combined with traditional songs and couplets, further enriched the experience. The Ramleela, first held in 1952 in Tehri, used to take place in the “Azad Maidan” until the town was submerged in 2002. After a gap of 21 years, the Ramleela was revived in Dehradun in 2023, with a special focus on laser shows and digital live telecasts, which reached a record audience of 1 million people. This effort has allowed Garhwal’s rich history to be brought back to life and provides an entertaining way for future generations to connect with their cultural heritage and Sanatan Dharma traditions. This year, the Ramleela will be broadcast via a digital live telecast system, with an expected viewership of over 5 million people, marking another milestone in Uttarakhand’s history. Key participants in the event included chief guest Shakti Kapoor, MLA Vinod Kandari, Ramleela committee president Abhinav Thapar, secretary Amit Pant, and other dignitaries such as Girish Chandra Pandey, Naresh Kumar, Durga Bhatt, Shashi Panyuli, and Guddi Thapliyal.

Big News: Shakti Kapoor Inaugurates the Grand Ramleela by Lighting the LampDay 6 – Suparnakha Leela, Sita Haran Dehradun Read More »

Actor Shahid Kapoor Reaches the Scenic Valleys of Uttarakhand, Fans Take Selfies Enthusiastically

Bollywood, Hillywood |

Famous Bollywood actor Shahid Kapoor, along with his wife Mira, arrived in Mussoorie on a private trip. Fans took many photos with him. Uttarakhand is renowned worldwide for its beauty, attracting visitors from around the globe. In addition to foreign tourists, many Bollywood celebrities also visit the region for private trips. Recently, famous Bollywood actor Shahid Kapoor and his wife Mira visited the scenic landscapes of Mussoorie in Dehradun district. During their visit, they toured the Woodstock School and posed for pictures with fans, which Mira later shared on her social media account. Recently, Bollywood actor Shahid Kapoor and his wife Mira were spotted in Mussoorie during a private visit. The couple toured the famous Woodstock School, where Shahid explored facilities such as the student hostel, classrooms, and the admissions office. Their visit sparked excitement among fans, leading to several photo sessions There is speculation that Shahid and Mira might be considering enrolling their children, Misha and Zain, at Woodstock School, one of Asia’s oldest international boarding schools, established in 1854. The school is known for its high fees and prestigious alumni, including notable figures like actor Tom Alter and author Nayantara Sahgal. Woodstock offers a rich academic and extracurricular environment, making it a top choice for international education in India. Shahid and Mira’s visit was brief, and after spending some time at the school, they returned to Jolly Grant Airport to conclude their trip. Mira also shared some scenic pictures from their visit on social media, further adding to the buzz.

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Negi Da and Pandavaas Mesmerize Audience at UPL Closing Ceremony; Stadium Erupts in Celebration

Hillywood, Music, Sports |

Negi Da, Pandavaas Mesmerize Audience at UPL Closing Ceremony; Stadium Erupts in Celebration The Uttarakhand Premier League concluded today at the Rajiv Gandhi Cricket Stadium in Dehradun. The closing ceremony featured electrifying performances by folk icon Narendra Singh Negi and the Pandavaj band, captivating the audience and prompting the entire stadium to dance and cheer. The crowd turnout was significantly higher than usual, as fans gathered to witness Negi Da and Pandavaas live. Before the league’s final match, a vibrant closing ceremony was organized, where folk singer Narendra Singh Negi delivered a powerful performance. The Pandavaas band also added their unique charm to the event. The entire stadium was immersed in the spirit of Uttarakhand’s culture. Negi Da’s performances of songs like “Ja Badri Kedarnath,” “Himwant Desh Hola Trijuginarayan,” and “Twi Chai Twi Chai Meri Saunjadya Laik” highlighted the region’s religious significance while energizing the youth in the crowd. Pandavaas band further enthralled the audience with numbers such as “Ne Meri Gajna,” “Hath Ma Ganjeli Radha,” and “Jagar,” keeping the crowd dancing for a long time. The large audience fully enjoyed the lively closing ceremony. The Uttarakhand Premier League, which began on September 15 at Rajiv Gandhi International Cricket Stadium, saw Bollywood stars at the opening ceremony, drawing criticism from locals. However, the closing ceremony featured local artists, a decision that resonated well with the crowd.

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Controversy and Redemption: Uttarakhand Premier League Embraces Local Artists for Closing Ceremony After Initial Backlash

Hillywood, Music, Sports |

The Cricket Association of Uttarakhand (CAU) is organizing the state-level T-20 league, Uttarakhand Premier League, for the first time. However, the CAU has already faced several controversies in this inaugural event. Bollywood figures like B Praak and Manoj Tiwari were invited to the league’s opening ceremony, but local artists from the state were overlooked, which did not sit well with the people of Uttarakhand. This led to protests against the CAU. Eventually, the CAU learned its lesson and dedicated the closing ceremony to local artists. The closing program will feature performances by Narendra Singh Negi, the Pandavaaz Band, and other local artists. It should be noted that the Uttarakhand Premier League has been taking place at the Rajiv Gandhi International Cricket Stadium in Raipur since September 15. Five teams are competing in the men’s division, while three teams are competing in the women’s division. At the opening ceremony, the organizers invited Bollywood singer B Praak, actor Sonu Sood, and Bhojpuri star Manoj Tiwari, but these artists failed to attract a large crowd. The organizers ignored local artists at the opening ceremony, which angered the local people. The “Mool Nivas Bho Kanoon Sangharsh Samiti” strongly objected to this and surrounded the CAU office. The committee warned that if local artists were not invited for the final event, they would stage a protest on the field, disrupting the league. Following this warning from the “Mool Nivas Bho Kanoon Samanvay Sangharsh Samiti,” the Cricket Association of Uttarakhand took action. The CAU has now given prominence to local artists for the closing ceremony on September 22. Cultural flag-bearers of Uttarakhand, Narendra Singh Negi and the Pandavaaz group, have been invited to perform. The Uttarakhand Premier League officially shared this information on their social media handles. The invitation of local artists has brought happiness among the public. It is expected that the stadium will be packed with people eager to hear Negi Da and Pandavaaz during the closing ceremony, helping the CAU forget the lackluster opening ceremony.

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“Food Tour to Spotlight Uttarakhand’s Traditional Cuisine and Culture – Satpal Maharaj”

Hillywood, Lifestyle |

“Food Tour Will Give Global Recognition to Uttarakhand’s Traditional Cuisine and Flavors – Satpal Maharaj” Uttarakhand’s Tourism Minister, Mr. Satpal Maharaj, flagged off the food tour of India’s famous food blogger, Gaurav Wasan. This food tour is organized in collaboration with Uttarakhand’s famous Ellora Bakery, Melting Moments, and was inaugurated today by Tourism Minister Satpal Maharaj from Ellora Bakery Melting Moments located on Rajpur Road, Dehradun. While speaking to the media, Tourism Minister Satpal Maharaj stated that during this journey, Gaurav Wasan will bring various traditional cuisines and flavors of the country to the people. On this journey, Gaurav Wasan, with the collaboration of Melting Moments, will cover a distance of 11,000 kilometers. During this journey, Gaurav Wasan will also showcase Uttarakhand’s traditional cuisine and culture in various parts of the country. Speaking to the media, Gaurav Wasan said that he will visit all the states of the country and cover around 50 major cities and rural areas, bringing the local cuisine and customs to people from all sections of society. He mentioned that Uttarakhand’s traditional food is very popular, and people from other states of India should also know about it. A lot of work is being done on millets and coarse grains in Uttarakhand, and the government is also actively promoting it. During this journey, my effort will be to highlight the work being done on millets in Uttarakhand and how it is emerging as a popular nutritious food. The efforts of the Uttarakhand government need to reach all states, and other states should also promote millets and coarse grains as a nutritious diet among people. Gaurav Wasan also mentioned that Tourism Minister Satpal Maharaj advised him to conclude this journey at the Ganga Ghats of Haridwar so that the nation and the world can see how successful this journey has been. The event was attended by Surendra Gulati, Virendra Gulati, Mudit Gulati, Dron Gulati, Akash, Utkarsh Singh, and members of the Rajpur Road Business Committee.

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Bollywood Film “Hisaab” Shooting in Dehradun: Vipul Shah Praises Uttarakhand’s Film-Friendly Policy

Bollywood, Hillywood |

The shooting of the upcoming Bollywood film “Hisaab” is currently taking place in Dehradun. The main actors of this film are Shefali Shah and Jaideep Ahlawat. The film’s producer-director, Vipul Amrutlal Shah, along with his wife and actress Shefali Shah, met with Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami at his residence today. Vipul Amrutlal Shah is not only a film producer but also a renowned director, with major films like “Aankhen,” “Singh Is Kinng,” “Namaste London,” “Namaste England,” “The Kerala Story,” and “Bastar” to his credit. Shefali Shah has recently been in the limelight for her lead role in the web series “Delhi Crime.” She has played significant roles in many Hindi films. Vipul Shah Praises Uttarakhand Vipul Shah praised the new film policy of Uttarakhand, introduced in 2024, describing it as extremely film-friendly and expressed gratitude to Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami for this policy. He mentioned that the new film policy of Uttarakhand will further encourage film shooting in the state. During the meeting, he appreciated the single-window system for easy shooting permits implemented by the Uttarakhand Film Development Council (UFDC). During his stay in Uttarakhand for the shoot, Mr. Shah described the state as a completely film-friendly destination for filmmakers. He noted that shooting films here is much easier compared to other states and praised the assistance provided by the local people. According to him, this new film policy has created an atmosphere of enthusiasm among film producers. Highlights of the Film Vipul Shah shared that his new film stars Shefali Shah and actor Jaideep Ahlawat in the lead roles. The film is a comedy suspense thriller. In the three days of shooting, over 60% of the support crew was hired locally. Chief Minister Dhami extended his best wishes to Vipul Shah and Shefali Shah for the film’s success and stated that the government is committed to developing every aspect of film production. He mentioned that film production will boost new employment activities in the state and strengthen tourism. He also highlighted that new shooting destinations have been identified with the help of the tourism department, and efforts are underway to promote them for shooting, which will also help in promoting lesser-known tourist spots in Uttarakhand through films. What Did the Director General of Information Say? During the meeting, Director General of Information Banshidhar Tiwari, who was present, mentioned that the new film policy passed by the state government includes a higher grant amount for films. Films released on OTT platforms and web series have also been included for grants. The meeting at the Chief Minister’s residence was also attended by the CEO of the Film Development Council and Director General of Information Banshidhar Tiwari, Joint CEO of the Film Development Council, and Joint Director of Information Dr. Nitin Upadhyay. Film Shootings in Uttarakhand It is notable that there has been a surge in film and web series shootings in the state recently. Recently, the shoot for the film “Tanvi the Great” under Anupam Kher’s banner “Anupam Kher Studio” was also completed in Lansdowne, which took 36 days to shoot. The shooting of the film “Viky Vidya Ka Wo Wala Video,” directed by Raaj Shaandilyaa, was also completed in March. The film stars Rajkummar Rao and Tripti Dimri in lead roles and is a comedy. Earlier, the shooting of “Do Patti,” starring Kajol and Kriti Sanon, was completed in December, and its teaser has already been released on Netflix. These Films Have Also Been Shot The web series “11 11” (Gyarah Gyarah), shot in Uttarakhand, can be watched on Zee5, featuring Uttarakhand’s Raghav Juyal in a prominent role. The film “Rautu Ka Raj” on Zee5, starring Nawazuddin Siddiqui, is also available to watch. The web series “Life Hil Gayi” can be seen on Disney+ Hotstar, which features many artists from Uttarakhand. A film starring Amit Sial titled “Tikdam” was released on JioCinema Premium on August 23 this month.

Bollywood Film “Hisaab” Shooting in Dehradun: Vipul Shah Praises Uttarakhand’s Film-Friendly Policy Read More »

Aurra Bhatnagar Badoni: A Rising Star in Indian Television

Bollywood, Hillywood |

Introduction Aurra Bhatnagar Badoni, a young talent hailing from Dehradun, Uttarakhand, has made a significant mark in the Indian television industry at a very young age. Known for her impressive acting skills and on-screen presence, she has quickly become a beloved figure among viewers. Early Life and Career Beginnings Aurra was born and raised in Dehradun, where she began showing an interest in acting from a young age. Encouraged by her family, she took her first steps into the world of television with auditions and local performances. Her big break came when she was cast as the lead in the Colors TV show Barrister Babu. Breakthrough Role in Barrister Babu In Barrister Babu, Aurra portrayed the character of Bondita, a young girl in pre-independent India who challenges societal norms to pursue education and justice. Her performance was widely praised for its depth and maturity, especially given her age. The role of Bondita not only showcased her acting prowess but also highlighted important social issues, making the show a critical and commercial success. Transition to Anupamaa Following her success in Barrister Babu, Aurra Bhatnagar is working on a new challenge in the popular Star Plus series Anupamaa. She is portraying the role of Choti Anu after a significant five-year leap in the storyline. This role is expected to add new dimensions to the character, now portrayed as a teenager, bringing fresh energy and dynamics to the show. Her entry into Anupamaa has been highly anticipated by fans and marks a new chapter in her burgeoning career. Personal Life and Interests Despite her growing fame, Aurra remains grounded and focused on her education and family. She balances her school work with her acting career, often citing her parents as her biggest supporters and inspirations. When not on set, Aurra enjoys reading, dancing, and spending time with her friends and family. Conclusion Aurra Bhatnagar Badoni’s journey from Dehradun to becoming a rising star on Indian television is a testament to her talent, hard work, and determination. As she takes on more challenging roles, there is no doubt that Aurra’s career will continue to flourish, and she will remain a beloved figure in the hearts of her fans. Her transition into Anupamaa is appreciated by all viewers and always excited to see how she brings her unique flair to the show. Aurra’s story is an inspiring example of how dedication and passion can pave the way for success, even at a young age. With her bright future ahead, Aurra Bhatnagar Badoni is truly a star in the making.

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“Vipul Shah, Shefali Shah Meet Uttarakhand CM, Praise New Film Policy”

Hillywood |

Renowned Hindi film producer-director Vipul Amrutlal Shah and his wife, actress Shefali Shah, met with Chief Minister Mr. Pushkar Singh Dhami at his residence. Producer-director Vipul Amrutlal Shah, who is currently shooting his upcoming Bollywood film “Hisaab” (starring Shefali Shah and Jaideep Ahlawat) in Dehradun, met today with Chief Minister Mr. Pushkar Singh Dhami at his residence, accompanied by his wife and actress Shefali Shah. Vipul Amrutlal Shah is a film producer and a well-known director whose notable films include Aankhen, Singh Is Kinng, Namastey London, Namaste England, The Kerala Story, and Bastar. Shefali Shah has recently been in the spotlight for her lead role in the web series Delhi Crime and has played significant roles in many Hindi films. Vipul Shah described the new Film Policy 2024 introduced by the Uttarakhand government as extremely film-friendly and expressed his gratitude to Chief Minister Mr. Pushkar Singh Dhami for this policy. He stated that the new Uttarakhand Film Policy will further promote film shootings in Uttarakhand. During the meeting, Mr. Shah appreciated the streamlined process of obtaining shooting permits under the single window system of the Uttarakhand Film Development Council (UFDC). He described Uttarakhand as a completely film-friendly destination for filmmakers during his stay for shooting in the state. He mentioned that filming here is much easier compared to other states and also praised the assistance provided by the local people. According to him, this new film policy has created an atmosphere of enthusiasm among filmmakers. Mr. Shah stated that the main actors in his new film are Shefali Shah and actor Jaideep Ahlawat. This film is a comedy suspense film. Over 60% of the support crew for the three-day shoot of this film were hired locally. Chief Minister Mr. Dhami extended his best wishes to Vipul Shah and Shefali Shah for the success of their film and stated that the government is committed to the development of every aspect related to film production. Film production will promote new activities of direct employment in the state and strengthen the state’s tourism. He also mentioned that the process of identifying new shooting destinations with the cooperation of the tourism department has started, which will promote lesser-known tourist spots in Uttarakhand through films. During the meeting, the Director General of Information, Mr. Banshidhar Tiwari, stated that the new film policy passed by the state government has increased the subsidy amount for films. Films released on OTT platforms and web series have also been included for subsidies. Also present at this meeting at the Chief Minister’s residence were the CEO of the Film Development Council, Director General of Information Mr. Banshidhar Tiwari, Joint CEO of the Film Development Council, and Joint Director of Information Dr. Nitin Upadhyay. It is noteworthy that there has been an increase in film and web series shootings in the state recently. Just recently, the film Tanvi The Great by Anupam Kher’s banner “Anupam Kher Studio” was completed in Lansdowne. The shooting lasted for 36 days. The film Viky Vidya Ka Wo Wala Video, directed by Raj Shaandilyaa and featuring Rajkummar Rao and Tripti Dimri in lead roles, completed shooting in March. This is a comedy film. Prior to this, the shooting of Do Patti featuring Kajol and Kriti Sanon was completed in December, and its teaser has already been released on Netflix.

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