Indian Splendor - the week long extravaganza that was held in Los Angeles to celebrate the Indian Independence Day - was not just an event that presented Indian art, culture and spirituality to NRI and American audiences. “There are many young and talented Indians who are a part of the cultural fraternity in Hollywood.

We also wanted to make Indian Splendor an event to showcase their talent to mainstream audiences in the US,” B.K. Modi, chairman of Mcorp Global said. Mglobal Trust along with UCLA School of Theatre, Film and TV, International Creative Management and ArtWallah, had organised the event. “ArtWallah is a non-profit organisation that was formed by many Indian artists in Hollywood. And through it, I hope to support global Indian talent,” Mr Modi said.

M Corp Global has made a donation of $1 million to ArtWallah that will be earmarked for art education at Los Angeles public schools. “As an alumni of the University of Southern California, I strongly feel that Los Angeles is the centre of innovation, communications and entertainment in the world.

It was distressing to hear that art education budgets have been cut in LA public schools and so I donated the funds to create programmes for children in the Greater LA area,” said Mr Modi who himself lives in the premium Beverly Hills area.

Indian Splendor that is set to become an annual event in the US, also featured Indian film stars such as Aishwarya and Abhishek Bachchan, Bipasha Basu and Katrina Kaif as well as directors such as Mani Ratnam and Vidhu Vinod Chopra. “The prominent people of Indian origin in LA including veteran Hollywood producer Ashok Amritraj also supported us. Mr Amritraj was, in fact, the cultural ambassador of the event,” Mr Modi added.

Indian spirituality was highlighted with the presence of spiritual guru Sri Sri Ravi Shankar. “Hollywood is now looking for multicultural themes from around the world. We feel that events such as ours will help the Indian film industry to create a buzz in the global arena. It will create a platform every year for Indian talent in the field of art, cinema, design, music and TV to be showcased globally, ” Mr Modi said.

http://economictimes.indiatimes.com

LOS ANGELES: "I was traveling in a taxi in Westwood, yesterday," said Rishi Kapoor, "when the cabbie suddenly asked- India?" I said, "Yes." He smiled and said immediately, "Ah! Raj Kapoor?" I said, "I am Raj Kapoor's son." Rishi continues, "The cab driver was stunned.

He was from Armenia, idolized Raj Kapoor and here he was in a cab in Los Angeles with the son of his screen idol." Only in Los Angeles I thought as I clapped delightedly at the story, sitting in the Billy Wilder Theatre, Hammer Museum along with a hundred other film aficionados listening to movie star Rishi Kapoor recounting the life and times of his father Raj Kapoor.

The audience had just seen a 13 minute documentary part of a two hour film Kehta Hai Joker directed by Bobby Bedi. I was fifteen years old, decades ago when I fell deeply and hopelessly in love.

I had seen my first Hindi film Awara and I was smitten by the romantic, Raj Kapoor. The deep feelings lingered on with me through the teen years as I saw Barsaat, Jagte Raho, Shri 420, Aah, Jis Desh Mein Ganga Behti Hai, Mera Naam Joker, Boot Polish, and Sangam.

Of course I fell in love again, this time with my husband but the connection with Raj Kapoor still exists. Over the years I have watched his movies many times, as a reviewer, a columnist, an analyst, a different individual experience.

A wisp of a song, a mention of any Kapoor name, a passing comment on any of his leading ladies, Nargis, Nimmi, Zeenat, Vyjayantimala drenched me with emotion. Of a man who honored love, challenged injustice, created a blend of narrative, song and smoldering intensity manifesting it into a demarcated film experience.

Now as part of the film festival, India Splendor hosted in Los Angeles by McGlobal Trust (Dr Modi) we went back in time to enter the world that Raj Kapoor created. Dr M introduced Raj Kapoor as-'the first global artist'.

Dean Rosen defined Raj Kapoor as an actor/film maker who represented the best of Indian cinema. It was a wonderful and touching homecoming as Raj Kapoor had prior to his death had visited the US for a retrospective of his films in University of California, Los Angeles.

The fascinating documentary showed a montage of excerpts from many of his films as he portrayed the actor, director, producer and studio chief of almost four decades. Prior to his death due to complications of asthma at the age of 63, Raj Kapoor said, "When I die take me to the studio so I might get up, spring forward and say, Action."

Brother Shammi Kapoor when interviewed remembered, "Raj smoked, drank and slept with films." Later, son Rishi Kapoor reaffirmed the statement when he told us, "My family, his wife, mother, children…nothing was important to him. Only the making of a film. We did not exist when he was involved with a film. It was a passion, an obsession.

His family was a world apart." Film directors paid tribute as they remembered him as the Indian Charlie Chaplin giving a shape and character to the Chaplinesque brilliance he so admired. The second of the Great Showman's sons, Rishi Kapoor accompanied by wife Neetu and son Ranbir, came on stage with Mira Advani Honeycutt, film curator and author for an informal discussion with the audience.

Rishi who first starred in Mera Naam Joker has been India's heartthrob for 25 years. He made his debut as a teenager and became a top star with leading lady Dimple Kapadia in Bobby which became a rage overnight. "Raj Kapoor started young. He made Barsaat when he was 21 years old. I was always in awe of him.

When I worked on a film with him, I never called him Dad, only Raj Saab," recalled Rishi Kapoor. Asked if the Kapoor family believed in the tradition of not letting their wives to work in films, Neetu responded immediately, "I chose not to work after marriage as I was busy with the children. Maybe now if there is an opportunity I might be cast as a mother."

"My father loved Archie comics," Rishi told us and "he wanted to make a film about teenage romance, the kind of crushes one comes across in Archies." Articulate, intelligent and ready with a repartee, Rishi wittily and honestly captured the spirit of his father as he related anecdote after anecdote with astonishing zest.

Unique emotions coursed through the audience as one person recalled a violin lesson with the young Raj, another shared with fond remembrance a particular film that evoked a deep recollection, some spoke of scenes that resonated with the spirit of the times, and all acknowledged with sadness, the absence of the Master of cinema Raj Kapoor.

Raj was aggressively adventurous, yet totally accessible to the common man. There was no label or category to the man. The diversity of the roles was enriching. Ranbir Kapoor, son of Rishi Kapoor, is being launched this year in a film Saavariya by Sanjay Leela Bhansali - Director of Devdas, and Black.

A winsome, handsome and savvy young man, he spoke of his years in New York studying visual arts and in the Lee Strasberg school of acting and his dreams of following in the steps of his father Rishi and grandfather Raj Kapoor. "And what was the relationship between your father and you, Rishi?" was the final question from the audience.

To which Rishi Kapoor replied, "I was the biological son of my father. Raj Kapoor belongs to the world and to you…"

Prem Kishore

http://indiapost.com

LOS ANGELES: Bollywood ratcheted to a new level of excitement in Los Angeles, for a six day Film Festival - India Splendor, hosted by the eclectic utopian spirit of Doctor M (Bhupendra Kumar Modi) chairman of M Global Trust, the philanthropic branch of India based telecommunications IT giant MCorpGlobal. Doctor M's mission was to "salute the sensitivity, passion and brilliance of the film producers… true visionaries of peace, who have transformed a vibrant art form into a powerful medium to spread the message of oneness, for the sake of all humanity".

The US House of Representatives has already issued a Proclamation of Appreciation to Doctor M in recognition of his efforts to promote deeper understanding between the two countries and congratulated him on his inspirational innovations and humanitarian efforts worldwide. Modi has been called a Global Citizen, Billionaire Entrepreneur, Futurist and Educationist, Philanthropist and Peacemaker, Author and Film Producer. He has offices in London, Dubai, Shenzhen, Singapore, New Delhi and Mumbai and is the first Indian businessman to set up operations in Beverly Hills, Los Angeles.

In 1987, he set up MGLOBAL TRUST, a not for profit organization that plays an active role in promoting Education, Healthcare, Holistic Living Global Peace & Understanding. Modi donated one million dollars towards the India Splendor which went towards a packaged showing of art workshops, movie tributes, a book launch, (Anupam Chopra) film screenings, luminaries, spirituality, ( a meeting with spiritual leader Sri Sri Ravi Shankar) panel discussions and a fashion show (Suneet Verma). For the closing gala awards were given to top giants in technology, humanitarian services and the movie industry.

The two celebrity capitals of the world, Mumbai and Los Angeles came together and events were designed with panache. Tickets were free and available on first come, first served basis while Wipro, ICM and Sify and private donations made the festival possible. The Cultural Ambassador Ashok Amritraj, Program Committee Chairman Krishan Lal Chugh and Artwallah were handpicked by Dr Modi to present the multicultural events, organized by the UCLA School of Theater, Film and Television.

Bollywood was the buzzword and as India celebrates its 60th anniversary of independence, this very ambitious festival was aimed to "build bridges to one of the world's oldest cultures, and newest economic powers." said Robert Rosen, Dean UCLA School of Theater, Film and Television. Indeed, Sony Pictures is doing a joint production with Sanjay Leela Bhansali's production house SLB Films starring Ranbir Kapoor, son of Rishi Kapoor, grandson of Raj Kapoor and great grandson of Privithraj Kapoor.

Films were screened at prestigious theatres. Chak de India, Eklavya, Guru, Gandhi, Life in a Metro represented vivid physiologically portraits, urban landscapes, community, ravishing, sumptuous color cinematography, haunting music, innovation and onscreen magic. Opening at the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences in Beverly Hills with a screening of Chak de India, starring Shahrukh Khan, the week epitomized India's rich film heritage while showcasing the bold and innovative new cinema of India as in Life in the Metro.

The festival defined the enormous significance of India's place in global cinema. It was an exhilarating lineup of prominent directors, producers and actors. Apart from films, there was a high octane fashion show by Suneet Verma, one of India's top fashion designers; a talk on the The World is One Family by Sri Sri Ravi Shankar, a book release by Anupama Chopra, the author of King of Bollywood and the Seductive World of Indian Cinema.

Art workshops and auctions were presented by Indian painters Bose Krishnamachari, C Jagdish, Shanshad Hussain and Harshavardhana at Melnitz Hall Lobby, University of California Los Angeles 9UCLA).

A tribute to the legend Raj Kapoor highlighted the diversity and hypnotic compelling lure of Indian cinema. "India Splendor" said Dr M "will bring out the understanding of a vibrant New India. It will showcase the global impact of India's extraordinary Heritage, Holistic outlook and Hi-tech contribution to the world.

It will be the benchmark for a new series of collaborative endeavors between global creative communities and the beginning of a dynamic new relationship between the world's two largest democracies, two largest entertainment industries and two most culturally diverse countries." Dr M's dream was realized.

http://indiapost.com

LOS ANGELES: The sharply observed, addictively readable and serious content book by Anupama Chopra has a provocative title, 'King of Bollywood Shahrukh Khan and The Seductive World of Indian Cinema.' Published by Warner Books, the 222 page hardbound book was launched at India Splendor (the six day event celebrating films, the heritage and culture of India) in Los Angeles and New York and is the first book on Hindi film to get an international release.

It spotlights the international phenomenon, the box office gold, Shahrukh Khan who generates Beatles/Presley hysteria across the world. It is a giddy explosion of anecdotes, cinema varities and remembrances, tartly affectionate and focuses the world's attention on the power of the cinema idol. In this case Shahrukh Khan in the exploding $1.5 billion Bollywood industry is the face of a glittering, incredible India. This is the man who has launched films that are celebrated in Greece, Indonesia, Peru, Ethiopia, Hamburg, UK, US and Switzerland.

The book traces the life and times of a middle class Muslim boy from Delhi who later became a rage in the second most populated country. But it is not only a biography but a pitch perfect narrative of the turbulent history of the Partition, the mohalla in Peshawar where Khan's father was born, the euphoria of Indian independence, Mumbai the mecca of producers, actors, musicians, writers and poets, the disillusionment of the 1960s and the entrepreneur in a Silicon valley environment. The book took four years to complete as Chopra followed Khan everywhere, emailing and SMSed him all over the world.

The book begins with an anecdote. If a thirty three year old, portly Bhavesh Sheth of small town Dalton, Georgia, a father of a toddler could dream of dancing with Shahrukh Khan onstage and have his dream come true, the reader can easily accept the fact that weekly 7,000 people in South Korea gather at a club to watch Bollywood films, subtitle them in Korean, and run Bollywood dance classes. Back in India, when Shahrukh flicks cigarette butts, people pick them up as souvenirs.

Crafting each film and he has made fifty of them, Shahrukh Khan has established himself as a legend and plays each role in his distinctive style putting his indelible stamp on every performance. Anupama Chopra ignites the charisma of the screen idol by making him an accessible figure- a dynamic original, a synthesis of ebullient cultures(he married a Hindu) deeply emotional but a down to earth image of a man filled with potent talent and fusing the world of fantasy and make believe with raw experience. The combination is irresistible.

Chopra tells us of SRK's dreams of becoming an army officer, his agonizing courting of Gouri who later became his wife, his ambitions of becoming a talk-show host like Oprah Winfrey and how death made him a star. The stories tumble one after another on the pages, his cocky confidence, his conversations with the powerful dons, his fascination with books, the intrigues and conspiracies in the hierarchy of Bollywood, the big budget spectacles, the chamchas, the scalpers, they are all there. Anupama Chopra also writes in an exhilarating articulate manner of the 20 million Indians in the world, who have discovered Hindi films to be more than entertainment.

"They were a way to bind the community," she writes, "to maintain an emotional chord with the distant motherland, and buy inexpensively a dose of Indian culture for second generation children who were growing up as hyphenated hybrids."

The narrative crackles with dialogue, quotes, gossip, revelations, heartbreak, romance drama and the marketing of Shahrukh Khan. As Anupama Chopra writes, it was Aditya Chopra, Yash Chopra's son who told Shahrukh Khan that though he was a star, he could never become a superstar unless he became every girl's fantasy lover, every sister's brother, and every mother's son. "And of course Shahrukh became the superstar.

They are all great stories, enthralling, funny, moving and like Shahrukh Khan's movies the book too should be a sold out event anywhere in the world. Anupama Chopra comes from a literary/ cinema family. An gifted film critic and journalist she has written about the Indian film industry since 1993 and for publications as the New York Times, Los Angeles Times, Variety and India Today. She received an MA in journalism from the Medill School of Journalism in Northwestern University and has a BA in Literature from Bombay University.

She has authored 'Sholay- the making of a Classic', which won a National Award in India as best book on cinema. This was followed by an analysis of Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge published by the British Film Institute. She presently reviews films weekly on NDTV. Her husband is the famed Vidhu Vinod Chopra of Munnabhai and Eklavya fame while brother Vikram Chandra is the well known author of Sacred Games.

Sister Tanuja Chandra (Sur, Zindaggi Rocks) is one of the few women directors in Bollywood. I met Anupama Chopra at a panel discussion/book reading in Los Angeles at the 6 day event India Splendor, hosted by MC Global Trust in association with UCLA School of Theatre, Film, and Television, Artwallah, and ICM. I asked her how in the world of petty jealousies, arguments, extortion, murder, corruption, jail sentences, Shahukh Khan reigns. She replied simply, "He is compelling, the Bollywood dream. He is deified and at the same time grounded even while he is venerated and serenaded around the world."

When I asked if it was not too early to write a book about him Anupama Chopra merely smiled and said, "This is a good time when India is the buzzword and world attention is on everything pertaining to India. He is an international icon."

http://indiapost.com

'Guru' screens in L.A.

As part of UCLA’s India Splendor film fest, stars Abhishek Bachchan and Aishwarya Rai (the couple are often called the “Brangelina of India”) were on hand for Tuesday’s Hammer Museum screening of "Guru."

"Ugly Betty" DVD launches

"Ugly Betty's" America Ferrerra and Christopher Gorham celebrated the shows's DVD launch during a party at Skybar in Los Angeles on Monday.

Pressly gets tied up at auction

Jaime Pressly got tied up during an auction benefiting the AIDS Healthcare Foundation at the Hot in Hollywood event on Saturday.

Nobu Australia opens; De Niro turns 64

Chef Nobu Matsuhia, Robert De Niro and James Packer toasted Nobu's restaurant opening and De Niro's 64th birthday in Australia Thursday.

"Sopranos" get tough at benefit

Tony Sirico got tough with fellow "Sopranos" thesp Dominic Chianese at a benefit for United Cerebral Palsy in New Jersey on Monday.

"The Good Night" screens in Gotham

Christy Turlington and Ed Burns were onhand at the Cinema Society/Wall Street Journal screening of "The Good Night," helmed by Jake Paltrow.

http://www.variety.com

India Splendor Week in Los Angeles was a grand affair that entertainment show planners in India cannot imagine. Here’s a quick recap of the events...

The Kapoors’ Reunion

The screening of Bobby Bedi's documentary Kehta Hai Joker, a tribute to Raj Kapoor and RK films, was the highlight of the week. Rishi Kapoor, Neetu Kapoor and Ranbir Kapoor were present at the screening and answered audience questions regarding Raj Kapoor. Rishi Kapoor also took the opportunity to introduce his son, Ranbir Kapoor the much-awaited star of Sony Pictures first venture into Hollywood, Saawariya.

When asked about Raj Kapoor's early films, Rishi Kapoor said: " Raj Kapoor had a connection with the masses and made films for them with the sole objective of entertainment. When he commissioned RK films in 1948 the Indian youth still hadn't discovered its identity. Raj Kapoor was the spirit and played a part in shaping India's personality." Rishi Kapoor, Neetu Kapoor and a shy Ranbir Kapoor exchanged funny anecdotes about their experiences with Raj Kapoor; his influence and his effect on their lives.

About the film Bobby, Rishi said: "When I was young, I used to love reading Archie Comics that my father used to borrow from me. Archie Comics were the inspiration for Bobby, which is why Raj Kapoor came out with a film that revolved around teenage romance!"

Introducing Ranbir, Rishi Kapoor said: "This is my son Ranbir Kapoor, who I hope will carry on the 'Kapoor legacy' and will be given the opportunity to entertain you, your children and your grandchildren."

THE Suneet Verma collection

The six-day extravaganza saw the unveiling of Suneet Verma's latest collection ~ Enchanted Body. The designer said: "The idea behind Enchanted Body is that the woman who wears it should feel enchanted, the clothes are meant to make the person feel and look beautiful. The main inspiration for the collection really is the contemporary Indian woman, who at once is modern and forward thinking, and also keeps the tradition of dressing up alive. The collection makes an attempt to revive the age old techniques of embellishment, the traditional fabrics and combines them with the young Indian mindset to create sexy, yet demure clothes."

Models Nethra Raghuraman, Fleur Xavier and Neha from Mumbai along with American models sashayed down the ramp wearing beautiful saris presenting the best of Indian embroidery and warm Indian colours. Saris with halter blouses and the traditional ghaghra cholis were given a new twist through a fusion collection that merged the best of Indian fabrics and embroideries with western cuts.

But the highlight of the festival was the appearance of Abhishek Bachchan and Aishwarya Rai.

http://www.thestatesman.net

Mumbai, Aug 17: 'India Splendor', the six day long extravaganza to celebrate India's 60th year of independence in Los Angeles paid a tribute to global Indians like Infosys Chief Narayana Murthy, music conductor Zubin Mehta and Bollywood film maker Vidhu Vinod Chopra at the 'Global India Splendor Awards'.

The award function organized yesterday by M Global Trust, UCLA, ICM and ArtWallah was hosted by Kabir Bedi.

M Global Trust Chairman Dr B K Modi said ''The 'Global India Splendor Awards' are meant to celebrate and felicitate Indians, who epitomise the three facets that make India splendorous --heritage, holistic and hi-tech.'' ''We are honored to have our esteemed awardees who have carved a niche for themselves by placing India on a global platform in fields as diverse as cinema, technology, music, art and spirituality to name a few,'' Dr Modi added.

Bollywood stars who performed live on the occasion were Bipasha Basu dancing on her super-hit song 'Beedi'. A soulful performance by sitar player Nishat Khan that garnered a standing ovation from the crowd and Sonu Nigam's sensational performance showcasing the best of his vocals.

Eminent Indians like Gulshan Grover, Pooja Batra, Ashok Amritraj and Adam Bedi were present at the award ceremony to show their support for their colleagues.

Other awardees of the night were Rajendra Pawar --in the field of hi-tech, NIIT Chairman for his work with developing human resource potential and Silicon Valley entrepreneur Raju Vegesna.

Hollywood actress Maggie Grace, known for her performance in the acclaimed series 'Lost' awarded writer Vikram Chandra, whose books 'Red Earth' and 'Pouring Rain' have won him critical acclaim.

Other personalities who were awarded on the occasion were Eros International Chairman Kishore Lulla, actress Aishwarya Rai and film maker Mani Rathnam.

People awarded in the field of business included Enam Consultants Founder and Chairman Vallabh Bhansali, Dabur Chairman Vivek C Burman, and Sobha Group Chairman P N C Menon for their work in financial services, FMCG and construction respectively.

Mark Girfford, son of Human Rights activist and first non-white woman Liberal Councilor Zerbanoo Girfford was present to receive the award on behalf of his mother.

--- UNI

http://www.newkerala.com

Los Angeles: The six-day India Splendor celebrations in Los Angeles to showcase the finest in contemporary Indian cinema, arts, fashion, and spirituality, saw some high profile guests on the red carpet on Tuesday night.

Abhishek Bachchan and Aishwarya Rai (now Bachchan) were present for the screening of their film Guru along with filmmaker Mani Ratnam. The film, which is Abhishek and Aishwarya’s first onscreen hit, holds a special place for the couple.

"We were always friends and now we're married so the film is very special,” said Aishwarya.

India Splendor attempts to showcase some of the best of contemporary Hindi cinema. And Aishwarya was thrilled to be among the chosen few.

"It’s very humbling. You people credit me with too much I'm a proud Indian and blessed with opportunity,” said Aishwarya.

While Aishwarya was quite humble about representing India at this international platform Abhishek seemed more smug about it.

"It's about time the world stood up and noticed us – the largest industry, largest ticket collection,” said Abhishek.

Meanwhile all filmmaker Mani Ratnam had his thoughts on more serious matters - like changing the term Bollywood.

"If it happens I wish the name will change. People stop calling it Bollywood,” said Mani Ratnam.

http://www.ibnlive.com

BEVERLY HILLS, Calif.-The red carpeted U.S. premiere of Shimit Amin's "Chak De India" at the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Science here Aug. 10 set the tone for Dr. Bhupendra Kumar Modi's ambitious six day-long "India Splendor" event that coincides with India's 60th anniversary of its independence.

Hosted by Modi's MGlobal Trust in association with the UCLA School of Theatre, Film and Television, International Creative Management and ArtWallah, the event showcased the finest in contemporary Indian cinema, arts, fashion, dance, music and spirituality.

"Our vision has been to bring all the facets of Indian culture, including our booming film industry, to the U.S. in jointly celebrating this momentous mark in history," Modi, chairman of MCorp Global, stated in a press release to India-West.

He also noted that the event will be "the first in a series of collaborative endeavors between global creative communities and the beginning of a dynamic Indo-U.S. relationship at the holistic level."

"Chak De India," directed by Shimit Amin, stars Shah Rukh Khan as a former captain of India's field hockey team who finds himself denounced for being in collusion with the Pakistanis when he misses the crucial scoring point in a championship game between the two countries.

Seven years later, he resurfaces, eager to redeem himself as the coach of a girls hockey team. The players are talented, but their game is hampered by raging egos and regional differences. With a stern hand, he melds them into a cohesive team that goes on to compete in the World Cup.

Ashutosh Gowariker's "Lagaan," an Academy Award nominee for Best Foreign Film in 2002, introduced Western audiences to the fundamentals of cricket, which lay at the heart of its story. Yet, until now, no Bollywood film has ever used field hockey as a dramatic device, despite the fact that India has an Olympic class team that is accorded international respect.

"It's one of those things where hockey is now the secondary sport in India and it has slipped in its popularity," Amin pointed out to India-West. "One of the reasons everyone has been afraid of (making a film about field hockey) is because they never thought they could drawn an audience."

Although field hockey is the national sport of India and has a rich history, "in recent times it has fallen out of favor with the public in general. So it was a gamble for us, since it's a sport that's an underdog itself, especially when women are playing it," he added.

"This film is different that way, because we took a chance on something that maybe people didn't want to watch or a sport they weren't so interested in."

An additional challenge was shooting what is essentially a fast moving game. "Following that small ball around the field is very tricky," Amin admitted. "It was very tricky to design the film in a certain way and make it exciting for the screen. We didn't have any visual references of hockey that looked very interesting or exciting, so we had to reinvent everything for this film."

Just as American television uses Canadian cameramen when televising ice hockey, because they know where the puck is at any given moment, Amin brought in an Australian crew to assist cinematographer Sudeepn Chatterjee. "We knew exactly what we wanted, so we were very lucky to get it all the time," Amin said.

Speaking to an audience that filled every seat in the Samuel Goldwyn Theater, Modi outlined the reason for the film festival prior to the screening of the film. "Today, we are moving into a global society...and we hope that this small effort by creating India Splendor will be a move towards that," he said.

Robert Rosen, dean of the UCLA School of Theatre, Film and Television, reminded the attendees that night that since the 1960s, India has "flickered in and out of the American consciousness...but with the changes in participation in a global culture and a global economy, India is now definitely and permanently on the agenda."

Westerns "have to recognize in the 21st century that (India) is a player with whom we will continue to interact...and what better window on a culture do you have than in film," he noted.

When it came his turn to speak, ICM chairman Jeff Berg earned applause when he argued that "if people with Dr. Modi's sensibilities and expression of goodwill did this for other countries, other regions of the world where there is this kind of cultural exchange, there would be a lot less of the exportation of aggression that we live in."

Events in the mold of Modi's India Splendor film festival "are trying to bring global awareness for Indian cinema, and I think it is really, really important that people understand the reach of cinema," noted Bollywood actress Katrina Kaif.

In addition to a special tribute to Indian film legend Raj Kapoor and the book launch of "King of Bollywood," the festival also featured Richard Attenborough's Academy Award winning "Gandhi," as well as Vidhu Vinod Chopra's "Eklavya," Anurag Basu's "Life in a...Metro" and Mani Ratnam's "Guru." (See separate stories next issue.)

Other highlights included a spiritual discourse by Sri Sri Ravi Shankar, founder of the Art of Living, and a fashion show by acclaimed Indian designer Suneet Verma. The festival was to culiminate with the presentation of "India Splendor Awards" to prominent Indians who have carved a name for themselves in their respective fields.

:by indiawest

http://www.indiawest.com

LOS ANGELES: An India Splendor night gala was held on August 10 followed by a tribute to the legendary actor Raj Kapoor on August 11 here. The two-day function was attended by Katrina Kaif, Rishi Kapoor, Neetu Kapoor and Ranbir Kapoor as special guests.

The gala night commenced with the screening of the latest Yashraj production- Chak De India, starring Shahrukh Khan. Katrina Kaif was present at the gala as Brand Ambassador of MCorpGlobal.

After these events, a Question-Answer round with Director Shimit Amin and writer Jaideep Sahni was staged. Dean Robert Rosen moderated the discourse. The second day was organized as a Tribute to Raj Kapoor and a special 30-minute documentary, directed by Bobby Bedi called "Kehta Hai Joker" was shown.

The Kapoor family participated enthusiastically in the Question-Answer round, moderated by Mira Advani Honeycutt. The documentary was well-appreciated and it also touched the hearts of Rishi and Neetu Kapoor.

India Post News Service

http://indiapost.com

NR Narayana Murthy, chairman and chief mentor of Infosys, is one of the 15 Indians, along with Sri Sri Ravishankar and Aishwarya Rai, who were awarded the Global India Splendor awards by the UCLA School of Theatre, Film and Television on August 14 in Los Angeles. Mr Murthy, who was on board a flight from the US to Singapore on Independence Day, discussed India’s achievements since 1947, the contributions made by the corporate sector to its growth and what he thinks are the ideal qualities for a politician. Excerpts:

The Karnataka High Court has quashed proceedings against you over the National Anthem controversy. Are you happy to hear that?
I would not like to comment on that matter; I have not yet read the judgment myself. I have been on the road so far. I gave an interview to a journalist and it was misrepresented, so I do not want to say anything till I have the complete details.

Looking back on 60 years of Independence, are you satisfied with how things have shaped up in India?
There are lots of good things that India has achieved; we have produced world-class scientists, doctors and engineers. We have reduced poverty and increased literacy; we have sent rockets to space. However, the job is not fully done, we still have the largest mass of illiterates in the world and the malnutrition levels are really high. There are 150 million Indians who do not have access to drinking water and 750 million do not have decent sanitation. But today, I would like to focus on what we have achieved rather than what still remains to be done.

In your opinion, how can these gaps be filled?
India has had some of the most important revolutions of this century, be it the Green Revolution of MS Swaminathan, the White Revolution of Varghese Kurien, Sam Pitroda’s telecom revolution or Professor Yashpal’s satellite revolution. All this only go to show that when well-meaning bureaucrats work with some of these visionaries and provide them support, then India can go on to achieve so much.

Do you think you have contributed similarly to the software revolution in this country?
How can I say that myself, you should ask others. However, I will give credit to Infosys for creating the largest corporate governance programme and a very democratic distribution of wealth. My driver has a million dollars of wealth today.

What role has the corporate sector played in India’s progress?
You must remember that respect for India today is only because of its corporate sector. In the last 10-12 years, the corporate sector has created some of the best global Indian companies in the world. The focus on exports means that India today has excess foreign reserves and Indians have much higher levels of confidence. We need good bureaucrats and politicians who can work together with corporates and put the interest of the country first.

Can corporates solve some of the problems like gaps in education and good governance?
This is the time the government needs to think about liberalising education. Just like it liberalised the industry in 1991 and unleashed the economic revolution, it needs to do that with education. Today, we are reaping the benefits of the work done by people like Jawaharlal Nehru in the 1950s when they created world-class institutions like the IITs and IIMs. Today, India has tremendous respect in the world because of these institutes. We have to continue that work.

Do you have a model in mind for that?
Yes, the US has a very vibrant educational system and institutes have full autonomy. I sit on the board of several universities like Cornell, Yale, Stanford and Insead. Unlike the IITs and IIMs here, the Board of Trustees appoints the Director for Cornell and is free to fix their tenure and salary. In Cornell, if we want to raise the fee or raise funds from alumni, we do not need the government’s permission. There is no joint secretary or bureaucrat hovering around our heads telling us what to do.

Do you feel that the IT industry’s growth has been equitable? The top three companies account for a third of the revenues today while the smaller firms are struggling for growth?
If they are small, it is not our fault. We have not formed a cartel; we do not operate in the domestic market and are not stopping them from getting a licence. They are competing in the same markets as us. Smaller companies need to be innovative, faster and more nimble. In many ways, they are better than when I started Infosys. They don’t have to wait for three years to get a telephone connection or wait at RBI for 12 days for travelling abroad. When I started Infosys, 90% of my time went in getting permissions from the government. Ultimately, it is the market which decides who does well.

Is entrepreneurship the answer to solving some of India’s problems?
Entrepreneurial activity can have a tremendous impact on a country’s development; it’s the only way to create jobs and wealth today. The government has to make it simple for small entrepreneurs to start companies in India. My friends who run small companies tell me that there is so much frustration today, from the excise inspector, small state governments, the sales tax commissioner and so on. We have to reduce friction for businesses by the government. We need to provide better access to venture capital and mentoring opportunities.

Have you thought of doing something about this? Give funds or mentor startups...
Certainly, who knows what the future has in store, but it is a nice thought and you are right, I must pay more attention to doing something like this.

What kind of politicians do we need in this country?
We need modern, honest leaders who can benchmark with the best. We need young and energetic politicians, not people who are close to dying. We need leaders like Rajiv Gandhi who are 40-50 years of age, full of energy and great dreams. Leaders of this country must vacate the chair when still in good health. Nandan and I gave up the CEO’s post at 52. It requires a bit of personal sacrifice to give it up, it needs courage, but corporations and countries need younger leaders.

http://economictimes.indiatimes.com

Aishwarya and husband Abhishek Bachchan continue to make international news again and again whether at Cannes or at Madame Tussauds this couple refuses to move away from the limelight.

This time they were yet again caught on camera for the special screening of the Mani Ratnam film Guru in Los Angeles on the eve of India's 60th Independence anniversary.

The leading Bollywood couple were at the India Splendor film festival that features an exhibition of several Bollywood movies.

Next on the schedule for Ash is a trip to New York on Wednesday where her wax statue will be unveiled in New York on loan from Madame Tussauds in London for approximately six weeks.

Then the busy actress will star in The Pink Panther sequel with actor Steve Martin.

http://www.ndtvmovies.com

Film, fashion show being organised, while chefs from India, Pak get together

NEW YORK, AUGUST 12: From a film, fashion and spirituality festival in California to chefs from India and Pakistan getting together in New York to unveiling of Aishwarya Rai’s wax statue at Madame Tussauds at Times Square, there is a new twist to India’s Independence Day celebrations in the United States this year.

The Independence Day celebrations—India Splendor—began in Los Angeles on August 10. The festival opened with the screening of the film Chak De India.

Organised by MGlobal Trust, in association with the UCLA School of Theatre, Film and Television, International Creative Management and ArtWallah, India Splendor has been called a “major celebration of the 60th anniversary of India’s independence in the United States”.

The six-day festival, culminating with a live performance finale on August 15, intends to showcase the finest in contemporary Indian cinema, arts, fashion, dance, music and spirituality.

“Our vision has been to bring all facets of Indian culture—including our booming film industry—to the US,” said Chairman of MCorp Global Bhupendra Kumar Modi.

Former tennis star and veteran Hollywood film producer Ashok Amritraj is the cultural ambassador for India Splendor. The festival’s highlights include a special tribute to Indian film legend Raj Kapoor, a spiritual discourse by Sri Sri Ravi Shankar and a fashion show by designer Suneet Verma.

On August 15, prominent Indians, who have carved a name for themselves in their respective fields, will receive the India Splendor Awards in the midst of a dance and music extravaganza.

In Manhattan, chefs from India and Pakistan will feature in an evening of food, music and dance. A huge buffet meal comprising more than 20 dishes will be prepared by chefs from local South Asian restaurants.

Bollywood actor Aishwarya Rai, whose wax figure will be unveiled at Madame Tussauds at Times Square on August 15, will perform with a troupe.

http://www.indianexpress.com

Los Angeles: Celebrations of India's 60th year of Independence is taking place across the globe. First United Kingdom unveiled a month-long ‘India Now’ festival in London and now Los Angeles drew the curtains over ‘India Splendor’ which is a six-day festival of Indian arts and culture in Beverly Hills.

Supported by corporates and the UCLA School of Theatre, Film and Television, the event opened on Friday night with the screening of Shah Rukh Khan starrer Chak De India.

“It’s fantastic, I couldn’t have asked for a better venue. It’s always thrilling to come here to watch movies and then to have your film screened here is great,” director of Chak De India Shimit Amin said.

Many Bollywood stars including Abhishek Bachchan, Aishwarya Rai and Bipasha Basu are scheduled hit the red carpet in LA in the next couple of days. Meanwhile, it was Katrina Kaif who made an appearance on Day One.

“At the end of the day a lot of people may not be aware or concerned with the actual reach of Indian cinema. So, it’s a huge platform here. It’s all about going beyond the Asian market,” actor Katrina Kaif said.

Featuring the best of Indian art, fashion and business, ‘India Splendor’ is an attempt to bring Indian culture on the world map.

http://in.movies.yahoo.com

I had a blast Saturday at India Splendor's tribute to the late great Raj Kapoor, who spawned a dynasty of Bollywood talent, including the delightful star Rishi Kapoor. Variety's Shalini Dore reports:

India Splendor, five days of pageantry dedicated to Indian film, fashion and fine art, opened Friday with a thoroughly non-Bollywood film, Chak de India. The sports drama, a rarity in Indian films, unspooled at the Academy, preceded by two trailers for other Yash Raj Films, a first surely for that august theater.

After the screening of the Shah Rukh Khan starrer, the film’s writer and director participated in a Q&A with the UCLA film school’s dean Robert Rosen. Jaideep Sahni, the writer, said the idea for the movie came to him after seeing a tiny write-up in the sports section about the Indian girls’ hockey team. “First of all athletes are underdogs in India,” he said. “And women are double underdogs and when the sport is (field) hockey it’s a triple underdog.”

Fortunately for Sahni, director Shimit Amin didn’t mangle his vision. The pic used non-pros for team members. “We picked women who could play,” Amin said. Khan came on board and although there was one nightmarish day when the pair thought they couldn’t get Bollywood’s “King Khan” by the time the women were trained to play hockey, he had the dates available to shoot with them.

On Saturday, India Splendor paid tribute to Bollywood showman Raj Kapoor with a screening of some 30 minutes of Bobby Bedi’s documentary Kehta hai Joker (The Clown Speaks). The footage ended with Kapoor’s filmology to Jis desh mein Ganga behti hai (The Land Through Which the Ganges Flows) when his long partnership (on and off screen) with Nargis ended and Padmini entered the scene.

Afterward, his son Rishi with wife Neetu and son Ranbir spoke with journo Mira Advani Honeycutt about Raj, his songs and relationships. Maybe it was because of the passage of time, but Rishi actually spoke about Nargis — a relationship that was likened to Spencer Tracy and Katharine Hepburn.

During the Q&A that followed Rishi recalled that his father started as a clapboy, but really wanted to be in front of the cameras. So he would always turn to the camera and announce the take. One day the actor’s beard got caught in the clapboard, which he didn’t notice as he was turned away. Kedar Sharma, the director, “gave him a tight slap,” Rishi recounted his eyes gleaming with fun at the thought.

Filled with toe-tapping music, the documentary would be a treat to Kapoor fans, but documaker Bedi said it was not yet available for home theater fans. Something for Sony Entertainment TV to think about?

Later this week, we are all looking forward to meeting Bollywood's Golden couple, Abhishek Bachchan and Aishwarya Rai. She's a Bachchan now.

http://weblogs.variety.com

Ranbir Kapoor, extreme left, took a break from shooting Sanjay Leela Bhansali's Saanwariya and the hot Mumbai film studios, to accompany his parents Rishi Kapoor and Neetu Singh to California.

Thursday evening saw them partying with Indian billionaire B K Modi (the gent with the hat) at his mansion in Beverly Hills.

Among the other guests were Sri Sri Ravi Shankar, Navin and Pratima Doshi, Rajendra Vora and Rekha Bajaria.

Mody's MGlobal Trust, in association with the University of California Los Angeles School of Theatre, Film and Television, International Creative Management and Art Wallah, is hosting the India Splendor event to celebrate the 60th anniversary of India's independence in the United States.

India Splendor will unfold over the next six days in Los Angeles, starting today, August 10. It will culminate with a live performance finale on August 15.

The festival will feature Indian filmmakers and will include a tribute to the legendary Raj Kapoor.

Other highlights include a spiritual discourse by Sri Sri Ravi Shankar, founder of the Art of Living movement. A fashion show by designer Suneet Verma will follow.

On August 15, prominent Indians who have carved a name for themselves in their respective fields will receive the India Splendor Awards.

http://www.rediff.com

The 60th anniversary of India's independence is being celebrated with a splash, as Aishwarya Rai and Abhishek Bachchan, Rishi Kapoor, Katrina Kaif, Bipasha Basu, Mani Ratnam, Vidhu Vinod Chopra, Oscar winner Ben Kingsley, spiritual leader Sri Sri Ravi Shankar and many other top artists and personalities from India will descend on Los Angeles from Aug. 10 for "India Splendor," a colorful, star-studded event designed to present the best of India's arts, culture and spirituality to American audiences.

"India Splendor" is hosted by MGlobal Trust in association with the leading Hollywood talent agency ICM and the UCLA School of Theater, Film and Television. Hollywood producer Ashok Amritraj has been named cultural ambassador for "India Splendor."

Remarkably, every event, including each film screening, the closing night concert and each panel discussion, will be free to the public, but reservations will be required for every event and can be made online at www.IndiaSplendor.com from Aug. 1 onwards.

The six-day extravaganza kicks off Aug. 10 with the premiere of "Chak De India!", the highly anticipated Shah Rukh Khan film. Director Shimit Amin and screenwriter Jaideep Sahni will be in attendance at the Samuel Goldwyn Theater to answer audience questions after the screening.

Top Bollywood playback singer Sunidhi Chauhan, temptress Bipasha Basu and sitar maestro Nishat Khan, supported by the Shiamak Davar dance troupe, will headline a concert and awards ceremony at UCLA's Royce Hall Aug. 15, emceed by comedienne Archana Puran Singh; while an exhaustive lineup of panel discussions, celebrity Q&As and fashion and arts events will round out the series, which will be held at some of the most elegant entertainment venues in West Los Angeles.

Sri Sri Ravi Shankar, founder of the Art of Living Foundation, will present a spiritual discourse Aug. 12 at the Billy Wilder Theater; while a tribute to filmmaker Raj Kapoor - featuring appearances by Rishi Kapoor and hot newcomer Ranbir Kapoor - will take place at the Hammer Museum Aug. 11, followed by a fashion show showcasing the designs of Suneet Varma.

Mani Ratnam will participate in a Q&A following a screening of "Guru" Aug. 14, moderated by Variety scribe Patrick Frater; and Vidhu Vinod Chopra will be on hand for a discussion after a screening of "Eklavya" with Screen International's Mike Goodridge Aug. 12.

Author Anupama Chopra will launch her new book, "The King of Bollywood: Shah Rukh Khan and the Seductive World of Indian Cinema," at the Billy Wilder Theater earlier in the day on Aug. 12.

"Life ... In a Metro" will screen at the Billy Wilder Theater Aug. 13, followed by a panel discussion on Indians in Hollywood, featuring Sheetal Sheth, Gulshan Grover, Amrapali Ambegaonkar, Noel D'Souza and Namrata Singh Gujral.

A nod to India's history - both political and artistic - will take place Aug. 11 at the Billy Wilder Theater, when UCLA honors the late film legend Raj Kapoor. "Kehta Hai Joker," a new documentary on Kapoor, will be screened, followed by a Q&A with acclaimed veteran actor Rishi Kapoor (Raj's son), Neetu Kapoor (Raj's daughter-in-law) and Ranbir Kapoor (Raj's grandson and an upcoming actor set to appear in Sanjay Leela Bhansali's "Saawariya").

The Q&A will be moderated by Los Angeles-based journalist and Kapoor family friend, Mira Advani Honeycutt.

Later that evening, actor Ben Kingsley will be on hand for a 25th anniversary screening of the Academy Award-winning film "Gandhi." A culinary event called "Kitchens of India" and a fashion show with Suneet Verma will take place at the Hammer Museum the same evening.

Each afternoon over the six-day event, an art workshop at UCLA's Melnitz Hall will take place as well.

India Splendor, several years in the making, is the brainchild of Bhuvan Lall, an Indian film executive who divides his time between Los Angeles and New Delhi.

"India Splendor is more than just a film festival or a Bollywood event," Lall told India-West by phone July 31. "It's bringing together food, fashion, the arts and business leaders, as a cultural exchange with the United States.

"Our target audience is Americans. We want to show them what India has achieved over the last 60 years of independence." Members of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences are expected to attend, as well as influential decision makers from ICM and students and faculty from UCLA's film school.

Movies will play a large part in the appeal of India Splendor. Dr. Bhupendra Kumar Modi, chairman of MCorp Global, said in a statement: "With this industry showcase, we look to catalyze long-term creative and business connections between our two international capitals of cinema, which together produce more popular entertainment than the rest of the world combined."

Added Jeffrey Berg, chairman and CEO of ICM, "Indian cinema is an important force, and we are pleased to help lead an exchange of ideas and artistic expression between filmmakers from Mumbai to Los Angeles."

Robert Rosen, dean of UCLA's School of Theater, Film and Television, said, "UCLA is proud to collaborate on India Splendor, and we look forward to hosting many of its events on our campus."

India Splendor is supported by several nonprofits such as ArtWallah, Habiart Foundation, Sahara Foundation, TiE Southern California, Maybach Family Foundation and the Art of Living Foundation.

Festival affiliates include Yashraj Films, the National Film Development Corporation of India, Sony Pictures Entertainment, Eros Entertainment, Vidhu Vinod Chopra Productions, UTV, Madras Talkies, Kaleidoscope and WizCraft. Event sponsors include Spice Telecom, Wipro and Zeti India.

To reserve your free tickets online, visit www.indiasplendor.com.

http://indiawest.com

India Splendor will unfold over six days in Los Angeles, starting on August 10, 2007 and culminating with a live performance finale on August 15, 2007. It will showcase the finest in contemporary Indian cinema, arts, fashion, dance, music and spirituality.

The 60th anniversary of India's independence is being celebrated with a dazzling splash, as Aishwarya Rai and Abhishek Bachchan, Rishi Kapoor, Katrina Kaif, Bipasha Basu, Mani Ratnam, Vidhu Vinod Chopra, Oscar winner Ben Kingsley, spiritual leader Sri Sri Ravi Shankar and many other top artists and personalities from India will descend on Los Angeles from Aug. 10 for "India Splendor," a colorful, star-studded event designed to present the best of India's arts, culture and spirituality to American audiences.

MGLOBAL TRUST, in association with UCLA School of Theatre, Film and Television, International Creative Management and ArtWallah, is hosting the India Splendor event. India-born tennis star and veteran Hollywood film producer Ashok Amritraj is the cultural ambassador for India Splendor.

India Splendor will unfold over six days in Los Angeles, starting on August 10, 2007 and culminating with a live performance finale on August 15, 2007. It will showcase the finest in contemporary Indian cinema, arts, fashion, dance, music and spirituality.

Says Dr. Modi, “India Splendor will bring out the understanding of a vibrant new India. It will be the first in a series of collaborative endeavors between global creative communities and the beginning of a dynamic Indo-US relationship at the holistic level.”

India Splendor will be the first consequential effort of its kind, undertaken by two foremost Indian and American institutions working in partnership, to bring together film industry leaders and key decision-makers from Mumbai and Los Angeles. Our objective is to catalyze longer-term creative and business connections between these two international capitals of cinema that together produce more popular entertainment than the rest of the world combined.”

As part of his commitment to encourage and promote culture, Dr. B.K Modi announced that his company, MCORP Global has donated US$1mn to the art non-profit, ArtWallah, which will be earmarked for art education at Los Angeles public schools.

“As a USC alum, I strongly feel that Los Angeles is the center of innovation, communication and entertainment. Art is the best medium to achieve world peace. I was distressed to learn about Art Education budget cuts at Los Angeles public schools. For this reason, and on the occasion of India Splendor and the 60th Anniversary of Indian Independence, I am donating to create art programming for children at the elementary school level in public schools in the Greater Los Angeles Area. My Los Angeles based foundation, ArtWallah, will administer the programs”

"Our vision has been to bring all the facets of Indian culture, including our booming film industry, to the U.S. in jointly celebrating this momentous mark in history," adds Bhupendra Kumar Modi, chairman of Indian conglomerate MCorp Global.

India Splendor will feature Indian filmmakers like Mani Ratnam, Vidhu Vinod Chopra presenting the latest Indian feature films. There will also be a special tribute to Indian film legend, Raj Kapoor.

India Splendor does not only concentrate on film but also offers highlights which include a Spiritual Discourse by H H Sri Sri Ravi Shankar, Founder of the Art of Living, who has a global following of more than 20 mn. There will also be a fashion show extravaganza by acclaimed Indian Designer, Suneet Verma.

On 15th August at the gala celebration of India¹s 60th Anniversary of Independence, prominent Indians who have carved a name for themselves in their respective fields, will be the recipients of the ‘India Splendor Awards' in the midst of a high voltage art, dance, music and performance extravaganza being produced by WizCraft. .

India Splendor will also have a special invitee guest list of the Hollywood community, drawing a hearty crowd of industry professionals including Hollywood celebrities, top studio executives, talent agency heads, exhibitors, distributors, film financiers and die-hard movie buffs for whom the Art and Cinema of the Indian Subcontinent has long exuded a particular emotion.

India Splendor is supported by several nonprofits such as ArtWallah, Habiart Foundation, Sahara Foundation, TiE Southern California, Maybach Family Foundation and the Art of Living Foundation.

Festival affiliates include Yashraj Films, the National Film Development Corporation of India, Sony Pictures Entertainment, Eros Entertainment, Vidhu Vinod Chopra Productions, UTV, Madras Talkies, Kaleidoscope and WizCraft. Event sponsors include Spice Telecom, Wipro and Zeti India.

http://www.indiainfoline.com

The 60th anniversary of India's independence is being celebrated with a dazzling splash, as Aishwarya Rai and Abhishek Bachchan, Rishi Kapoor, Katrina Kaif, Bipasha Basu, Mani Ratnam, Vidhu Vinod Chopra, Oscar winner Ben Kingsley, spiritual leader Sri Sri Ravi Shankar and many other top artists and personalities from India will descend on Los Angeles from Aug. 10 for "India Splendor," a colorful, star-studded event designed to present the best of India's arts, culture and spirituality to American audiences.

MGLOBAL TRUST, in association with UCLA School of Theatre, Film and Television, International Creative Management and ArtWallah, is hosting the India Splendor event. India-born tennis star and veteran Hollywood film producer Ashok Amritraj is the cultural ambassador for India Splendor.

India Splendor will unfold over six days in Los Angeles, starting on August 10, 2007 and culminating with a live performance finale on August 15, 2007. It will showcase the finest in contemporary Indian cinema, arts, fashion, dance, music and spirituality.

Says Dr. Modi, “India Splendor will bring out the understanding of a vibrant new India. It will be the first in a series of collaborative endeavors between global creative communities and the beginning of a dynamic Indo-US relationship at the holistic level.”

India Splendor will be the first consequential effort of its kind, undertaken by two foremost Indian and American institutions working in partnership, to bring together film industry leaders and key decision-makers from Mumbai and Los Angeles. Our objective is to catalyze longer-term creative and business connections between these two international capitals of cinema that together produce more popular entertainment than the rest of the world combined.”

As part of his commitment to encourage and promote culture, Dr. B.K Modi announced that his company, MCORP Global has donated one million dollars to the art non-profit, ArtWallah, which will be earmarked for art education at Los Angeles public schools.

“As a USC alum, I strongly feel that Los Angeles is the center of innovation, communication and entertainment. Art is the best medium to achieve world peace. I was distressed to learn about Art Education budget cuts at Los Angeles public schools. For this reason, and on the occasion of India Splendor and the 60th Anniversary of Indian Independence, I am donating to create art programming for children at the elementary school level in public schools in the Greater Los Angeles Area. My Los Angeles based foundation, ArtWallah, will administer the programs”

"Our vision has been to bring all the facets of Indian culture, including our booming film industry, to the U.S. in jointly celebrating this momentous mark in history," adds Bhupendra Kumar Modi, chairman of Indian conglomerate MCorp Global.

India Splendor will feature Indian filmmakers like Mani Ratnam, Vidhu Vinod Chopra presenting the latest Indian feature films. There will also be a special tribute to Indian film legend, Raj Kapoor.

India Splendor does not only concentrate on film but also offers highlights which include a Spiritual Discourse by H H Sri Sri Ravi Shankar, Founder of the Art of Living, who has a global following of more than 20 million. There will also be a fashion show extravaganza by acclaimed Indian Designer, Suneet Verma.

On 15th August at the gala celebration of India¹s 60th Anniversary of Independence, prominent Indians who have carved a name for themselves in their respective fields, will be the recipients of the ‘India Splendor Awards' in the midst of a high voltage art, dance, music and performance extravaganza being produced by WizCraft. .

India Splendor will also have a special invitee guest list of the Hollywood community, drawing a hearty crowd of industry professionals including Hollywood celebrities, top studio executives, talent agency heads, exhibitors, distributors, film financiers and die-hard movie buffs for whom the Art and Cinema of the Indian Subcontinent has long exuded a particular emotion.

India Splendor is supported by several nonprofits such as ArtWallah, Habiart Foundation, Sahara Foundation, TiE Southern California, Maybach Family Foundation and the Art of Living Foundation.

Festival affiliates include Yashraj Films, the National Film Development Corporation of India, Sony Pictures Entertainment, Eros Entertainment, Vidhu Vinod Chopra Productions, UTV, Madras Talkies, Kaleidoscope and WizCraft. Event sponsors include Spice Telecom, Wipro and Zeti India.

http://www.agencyfaqs.com

Mumbai, Aug 7 (UNI) Yash Raj Film's 'Chak De India’, celebrating India's national game Hockey, will have its gala world premieres in London and Los Angeles.

''Both the premieres are centrepieces of mega festivals that celebrate India and Indian culture in the UK and USA'', a Yash Raj Films spokesperson said.

The film releases worldwide on August ten.

The London premiere will take place on August nine as the centrepiece event of 'India Now', a three-month season celebrating London’s strengthening relationship with India and exploring its culture and its contribution to the life of London.

''India Now was inaugurated on July 17 and encompasses events and festivities across practically every part of the city of London. The world premiere of ‘Chak De India’ will be held at Somerset House, London’s most outstanding 18th century building, situated on the banks of the river Thames. Superstar Shah Rukh Khan, who plays the coach who tries to take a motley group of girls to the pinnacle of world hockey, will be present on the occasion.

Ken Livingstone, Mayor of London, has been quoted as saying, '‘We have many events throughout the three-month duration. However, the world premiere of 'Chak de India' will undoubtedly bring existing events. It is a great honour for London to host this launch event for a film which, like so many other Bollywood blockbusters, will touch the hearts and minds of millions across the world.'' The Los Angeles premiere, to be held on August 10, is part of a shorter but no less prestigious event of a nature similar to India Now. Called ‘India Splendor’, the festival runs from August 10-15 and is a mega showcase of India’s arts, business, technology, food, dance, spirituality on the occasion of the country's 60th anniversary of Independence. ‘Chak De India’ will be the opening night film of 'India Splendor'.

http://www.uniindia.com

The world premiere of Chak De India will be held at Somerset House, Londons most outstanding 18th century building, situated on the banks of the river Thames. Superstar Shah Rukh Khan, who plays the coach who tries to take a motley group of girls to the pinnacle of world hockey, will be present on the occasion.

Yash Raj Film’s ‘Chak De India’, celebrating India’s national game Hockey, will have its gala world premieres in

London and Los Angeles. ‘’Both the premieres are centrepieces of mega festivals that celebrate India and Indian culture in the UK and USA’’, a Yash Raj Films spokesperson said.

The film releases worldwide on August 10.

The London premiere will take place on August 9 as the centrepiece event of ‘India Now’, a three-month season celebrating London’s strengthening relationship with India and exploring its culture and its contribution to the life of London.

‘’India Now was inaugurated on July 17 and encompasses events and festivities across practically every part of the city of London. The world premiere of ‘Chak De India’ will be held at Somerset House, London’s most outstanding 18th century building, situated on the banks of the river Thames. Superstar Shah Rukh Khan, who plays the coach who tries to take a motley group of girls to the pinnacle of world hockey, will be present on the occasion.

Ken Livingstone, Mayor of London, has been quoted as saying, ‘‘We have many events throughout the three-month duration. However, the world premiere of ‘Chak de India’ will undoubtedly bring existing events. It is a great honour for London to host this launch event for a film which, like so many other Bollywood blockbusters, will

touch the hearts and minds of millions across the world.’’

The Los Angeles premiere, to be held on August 10, is part of a shorter but no less prestigious event of a nature similar to India Now. Called ‘India Splendor’, the festival runs from August 10-15 and is a mega showcase of India’s arts, business, technology, food, dance, spirituality on the occasion of the country’s 60th anniversary of Independence. ‘Chak De India’ will be the opening night film of ‘India Splendor’.

http://www.deccanherald.com

MUMBAI: Yash Raj Films’ Shah Rukh Khan starrer Chak De! India will be premiered in London and Los Angeles.

These launch events are centre pieces of festivals that celebrate India and Indian culture in the UK and USA.

The London premiere to be held on 9 August at Somerset House is amidst the event called India Now – a three-month season celebrating the London-India affinity.

Mayor of London Ken Livingstone said, "We have many events throughout the three month duration of India Now, however the world premiere of Chak De! India will undoubtedly one of the biggest and most exciting. It is a great honour for London to host this premiere of a film which, like so many Bollywood blockbusters, will touch the hearts and minds of millions across the world.”

The Los Angeles premiere, to be held on 10 August, is a part of 'India Splendor', the festival which runs from 10 - 15 August and is a showcase of India's arts, business, technology, food, dance, spirituality on the occasion of India's 60th anniversary of independence.

Chak De! India will be the opening night film of India Splendor. Present on the occasion will be the director Shimit Amin and the screenwriter Jaideep Sahni.

http://www.businessofcinema.com

Washington, July 25 (ANI): India is all set to showcase its exciting developments in independent cinema, arts, technology, business and spirituality to Hollywood.

India Splendor, a unique festival running from August 10-15, will convey thrilling progresses the country has made in these fields to the Hollywood beat.

The festival's theme is "Heritage, Holistic and Hi Tech", and will launch an exclusive portal for distributing modern Indian cinema, and provide meaningful dialogue with spiritual and business leaders.

The festival has listed a plethora of high-flying Indian nationals including film producers, directors and performers as well as politicians and spiritual gurus, to participate.

Overlapping with the 60th anniversary of the nation's independence, "India Splendor" is organized by MGlobal Trust in cooperation with ICM and the UCLA School of Theater, Film and Television.

"Our vision has been to bring all the facets of Indian culture, including our booming film industry, to the U.S. in jointly celebrating this momentous mark in history," Variety quoted Bhupendra Kumar Modi, chairman of Indian conglom MCorp Global, as saying.

The whole idea behind the event, according to the organizers, is to make Indian culture more reachable to U.S. audiences.

"Indian cinema is an important force, and we are pleased to help lead an exchange of ideas and artistic expression between filmmakers from Mumbai to Los Angeles," added ICM chairman-chief exec Jeffrey Berg.

Among the festival highlights are the premiere of Bollywood superstar Shah Rukh Khan's latest film, Chak de India, a tribute to veteran Bollywood actor/director Raj Kapoor, film screening of Gandhi, with actor Ben Kingsley, a fashion show by top Indian designer, Suneet Verma and dialogue with India-born Hollywood producer Ashok Amritraj, who will also preside over as the event's cultural ambassador. (ANI)

http://in.movies.yahoo.com

India is finally getting its day in the L.A. sun courtesy of a mega-showcase of that country's arts, business, technology and spirituality.

There's even a chance to chow down on Indian delicacies and a closing-night dance extravaganza.

Marketed as "India Splendor," the event runs Aug. 10-15 and will focus on Indian cinema. It has lined up a plethora of prominent Indian nationals -- film producers, directors and performers as well as politicos and spiritual gurus -- to participate.

Coinciding with the 60th anniversary of the nation's independence, "India Splendor" is spearheaded by MGlobal Trust in association with ICM and the UCLA School of Theater, Film and Television.

"Our vision has been to bring all the facets of Indian culture, including our booming film industry, to the U.S. in jointly celebrating this momentous mark in history," said Bhupendra Kumar Modi, chairman of Indian conglom MCorp Global.

Idea behind the event is to make Indian culture more accessible to U.S. audiences.

"Indian cinema is an important force, and we are pleased to help lead an exchange of ideas and artistic expression between filmmakers from Mumbai to Los Angeles," added ICM chairman-chief exec Jeffrey Berg.

Veteran India-born Hollywood producer Ashok Amritraj is the event's cultural ambassador. Opening-night film is "Chak de India" (Come on India), which centers on Indian sports-themed pics and is the first Hindi feature to debut day-and-date in India and America. Movie stars Shah Rukh Khan and is directed by Shimit Amin, who will participate after the screening in a Q&A with the film's writer, Jaideep Sahni. There's also a tribute to late Indian film legend Raj Kapoor and a 25th anni screening of "Gandhi."

http://www.varietyasiaonline.com