After four seasons and 60 shows, stage musical Mughal-e-Azam is in town to wow Delhiites. SHALINI SAKSENA of The Pioneer unfolds the bigness of this magnum opus

For all those who don’t know anything about this classic, here is some information. It was the play Anarkali, written by Imtiaz Ali Taj way back in 1923 and staged hundreds of times before it was released as a Bollywood film by K Asif, starring Prithviraj Kapoor, Dilip Kumar

On August 5, 1960. Though historians questioned its historical accuracy, the film became the highest-grossing Bollywood film (Rs 55 million), a distinction it held for 15 years.

In 2004, the movie was re-released, in colour. The opulence was such that even today, most remember the mirrors, Madhubala and the iconic number Pyar Kiya Toh Darna Kya… To recreate the movie on any other medium would be a disaster, director Feroz Abbas Khan was told. “The day I had decided to stage Mughal-e-Azam as a stage musical, people looked at me with scepticism. They felt it would be a decisive mistake. Mughal-e-Azam is a legacy of memories. And memories are fragile so one needs to tread carefully. If you disturb these, the reaction would be strong. I have done this with great respect to K Asif. If I had made a film, the comparison would have been direct. But since I am doing it in a different medium, I have unburdened the idea of who is acting in the play. The actors sing and perform live, it is not a recording. All I have done is keep the memories alive and add a few more,” Khan tells you.

In the process, he has created a completely new theatre experience. “Even in theatre, it had to match the scale, grandeur and quality of the film. The Shapoorji Pallonji Group (owners of the movie) and the National Centre for the Performing Arts (NCPA) wanted that it should have the same scale and imagination as of the movie,” Khan says.

It was an uphill task even for Khan who is known for works like Tumhari Amrita and Mahatma vs Gandhi. The challenge here was to get so many live performers together and put out a show in just two-and-a-half months. “I was constrained by time. But I had an extraordinary team and collaborators to bring it all together,” Khan says. This team includes choreographer Mayuri

 Upadhya and designer Manish Malhotra who has designed the around 600 costumes used in the show.

Upadhya, a Bharatnatyam dancer and director of Bengaluru-based Nritarutya Dance Collective, feels that the challenges are innate to the title. “The biggest one was to create a team. I didn’t want to use my own team as I wanted to go with pure Kathak and maintain the authenticity. To audition 200-250 dancers from all over the country, choose from them and ensure that they are in sync with each other was a challenge,” Mayuri says. Pyar Kiya toh..., the sheesh mahal and the dance steps were retained. But it was only after listening to MS Subbalaxmi that the inspiration came to her for choreographing Pyar Kiya...

“One can cheat through the camera in a movie. On stage, it is always about truth. But risks need to be taken. In the song Pyar Kiya.... the magic is in Madhubala’s eyes and her ada, not steps. But on stage, the challenge is that the actor has to sing and dance and move with a lot of energy. There was need to keep the audience glued in,” Mayuri tells you.

Then there were discussions on costumes with Manish, especially for Pyar Kiya... The song is the defining moment of this musical. Mayuri hopes that through musicals like this, people get an experience — whether it is watching a movie or a dance recital that changes their lives forever. “Musicals are entertaining and have artistic value and flavour. Musical dramas should be just a trend but something that stays with you forever. I am glad we have finally woken up to this,” Mayuri says.

When went to seek Shapoorji Pallonji Group director Deepesh Salgia’s go-ahead, his only demand was that the musical should be as grand or grander than the film. “When Feroz narrated the concept, I told him it had to be 10 times the scale of what he had then envisaged. That would be mandatory if my Group will become a part of this musical. The response thus far has been in our favour, a work of art watched by thousands last year,” Salgia adds. “People want entertainment. As long as the show is great, it will be loved. The skill lies in storytelling and not the format,” Salgia adds.

Khushroo Suntook, NCPA chairman, says he came aboard when Feroz was looking for a venue and told them he also needed a partner. “We agreed because we had not done anything on such a large scale. The show has the best artists from India and global technological props,” he adds.

But to bring this musical to Delhi was not easy for lack of a venue to stage such a grand show. Even for Jawaharlal Nehru Indoor Stadium, the entire setup had to be done from scratch which incurred crores. “It’s not about profit for this artistic venture,” Suntook says. Perfection is such that for every lead artiste, there is a back-up. Also, as the show-makers are doing more than one show a day, there is could be need for another person to take over.

For Anarkali, Priyanka Barve and Neha Sargam have been roped in and for both it is a lifetime opportunity. “It is a nerve racking but exciting and unforgettable experience for a singer, artiste,” says Sargam, a singer, dancer and actor with singing being her first love. Hailing from Bihar, she comes from a musical family. Acting never entered her mind till one of the producers approached her for a TV show Chand Chhupa Badal Mein on Star Plus. After TV, came theatre.

Barve has a similar journey. “When I was offered this role, I did not want to give so much time to the show. But after six months, Feroz sir wanted to discuss it again. I had seen Phantom Of The Opera when I was 21 and was blown away by its grandeur. When I realised that this show too would be at that large a scale I decided not join,” Barve says.

The costumes designed by Manish Malhotra are heavy and rich, sometimes difficult to lift. “But now that we have done four seasons and I am used to it,” Barve says. Her favourite parts are Pyar Kiya... and Khuda Nigehbaan Ho Tumhara. The first is something she waits for as an act. “There is this energy and transformation that takes place in Anarkali. She is scared of Akbar but here, in this song she has a devil may care attitude and expresses her love for Salim. The second song is touching,” Barve tells you.

Director Khan is happy with Non-Bollywood leads and feels having stars from films “would have been a disaster,” Khan opines. “A theatre actor can go into cinema but for a film actor to get into theatre is next to impossible. I had a girl from TV who was excited about the show. But the first day she came half-hour late and that was her last day.

The discipline of theatre, the integrity with which you have to work since it is live, is crucial. In theatre, you work with humility,” he says. But viewers will not be disappointed, whether it is Pyar Kiya... with the mirrors sequence or any other aspect of the show. “It is a visually stunning musical,” Khan says.

Stunning and dramatic scenery and landscape is found throughout Norway. The west coast of southern Norway and the coast of northern Norway present some of the most visually impressive coastal sceneries in the world. National Geographic has listed the Norwegian fjords as the world’s top tourist attraction. The country is also home to the natural phenomena of the Midnight sun (during summer) as well as the Aurora borealis know also as the Northern lights.

The 2014 Environmental Performance Index put Norway in tenth place, based on the environmental performance of the country’s policies. Peace and My first impression of Norway’s beautiful capital was rather accurate. Oslo is a charming, laid-back city. There’s plenty to see and do, but out and out tourist spots are few. Instead, enjoying Oslo is about taking in all those truly ‘Norwegian’ experiences. Adventures on a fjord:

If you’re in Oslo on a bright summer day, you will notice that the city’s waterfronts are buzzing with activity. Aker Bryggae is Oslo’s hip waterfront located on the Oslo Fjord, home to an eclectic bunch of eateries and watering holes. At one end of Aker Bryggae stands Akershus Festning, a medieval stone castle and fortress dating back to the 13th century. Don’t miss the fjord cruise around the Oslo Fjord. It offers a stunning experience, being enveloped by the vastness of nature.

Ships in museums: I’m not really a fan of museums, but enjoyed my time in Oslo’s museums. Maybe it’s because Norwegians seem to love putting giant ships into museums each of the three museums we visited boasted of a life sized ship exhibit!

A silver mine and a ski jump: I’m always looking for unlikely experiences on my travels. So when I heard about the opportunity to visit The King’s Mine (located 500 meters below the ground) near Kongsberg, Oslo, I was sold. The King’s Mine was closed in 1958 and has been preserved since. Holmenkollen is home to an eponymous ski jumping hill which has been hosting competitions for over a century. Inside the ski jump is the Holmenkollen Ski Museum, the oldest of its kind in the world. The observation deck on top of the jump tower offers panoramic views of Oslo.

visit the Christmas House: The quaint town of Drobak is located just 40 kilometers from Oslo a perfect day trip! Drobak is straight out of a fairytale with charming wooden houses painted in bright colors lined up against the picturesque coast. Vintage cars were parked by the sidewalks and every house had a perfectly manicured rose garden. Dozens of sailboats bobbed in the shallow port (it seems that everyone here owns a boat!) Drobak is packed with scores of tiny eateries, cafes, bakeries, galleries and shops run by the locals. The town’s Christmas House (Julehuset) piled high with festive souvenirs. In here, it feels like Christmas all through the year. There is an adorable traditional-style bakery on the center square called Handverksbakeriet. We had some delicious apple and plum cake, with dessert wine for the Christmas feels!

walk atop the opera House: Oslo’s fabulous opera House was special simply because it let visitors like us simply walk onto the roof of the building and enjoy the view! We saw dozens of locals sunbathing on the roof, while others jumped off the roof into the adjoining water body.

Hiking and more: What is a Norwegian’s favorite weekend activity? Without a doubt, it is hiking and tenting in the great outdoors! Norway’s ‘Right of Access’ law means that everyone can freely camp anywhere in the open country side. This translates into Norwegians literally pitching a tent anywhere that catches their fancy! For a true taste of the land, go out tenting in the Norwegian countryside around Oslo.

The most tourist area of the Oslo and the core of the city, with the main street Karl Johan in the middle, have a wide variety of different pubs, bars and nightclubs that attract all kinds of people. The west side of the city center, Majorstuen, Vika and Frogner, is characterized by its fashionable, flashy and beautiful guests that want to see and be seen. In the Grünerlokka district the atmosphere is more relaxed and low- maintained; the guests are still trendy, but more laid-back and carefree. Boat parties are hugely popular in Oslo (why not, given how gorgeous the fjords are). Explore the sunniest capital of Scan dinavia with this 24-hour ticket aboard a City Sightseeing open-top double Decker bus. See all the main sights of Oslo as you hop on and hop off at 17 conveniently located stops around the city.

With great views from the top of the bus, strategically placed stops and an interesting commentary, this truly is the best way to see the main sights of Oslo. You can hop on and off as many  times as you like aboard this City Sight seeing open top, double Decker bus. There are 17 stops, and the entire route takes approximately 90 minutes. The bus departs every 30 minutes from each stop. Tickets are valid for 24 hours only.

Oslo, the oldest and sunniest of the Scandinavian capitals, was founded by Harald Hadrade in the 11th century and is surrounded by mountains at the head of a 70 mile (100 kilometer) fjord. You can visit Akershus Fortress, or feel like a real Viking at the Viking Ship Museum.

A single trip to Norway during life time is highly recommended to Indian globe trotter to broaden experience of realizing how beautiful the world is constructed by super natural power. A lot of credit must go to the native people of Norway for adhering to strict environment policy resulting in impeccable clean country.

 – Mithila Mehta

Glamour girl Piya Sharma is a rock star of showbiz in India Piya Sharma is a very charming and confident anchor, actress and model and human being. The emcee star was born in Patna, Bihar but is a true blue Punjabi from her roots and larger-than-life spirit, attitude and persona. Piya bravely fought all odds and pursued the path of modeling and anchoring, a field of work that may look all easy and glamorous from the face of it, on the outside, but requires tons of hard work. With dedication and commitment exerted by her in 8+ years of her event hosting and modeling career, she is one inspiring self-made woman.

Ms. Super Sharma has done all kinds of print advertisement assignments and marketing campaigns being the face of various product lines and generously endorsing brands. This stunning lady, who loves to add her magic to any event with her alluring presence and work; has walked the ramp and hosted mainstream events like product launches, fashion shows, dealer meets, business meets, conferences and seminars etc for reputed brands like Vodafone, MTS, RBS, Accenture, Max Life, Apolo Munich only to name a few.

She has been a successful ambassador for top-notch companies creating brand value and positioning, playing a significant role in several corporate films and brand shoots. You may be surprised and well impressed to know that she has graciously done more than 1000 PR, business and Social events as a lead anchor, model and performer for noted firms including Valvoline, HT Media Ltd., Johnson Tiles, Kargil India etc.

Piya was first getting hands on job experience before realizing that she is meant for something bigger and more impactful. She was the marketing head in an event management company and then one thing led to another, making her one of the most sought after name in the media industry, nationally and internationally. Yes, she has given smashing performances as a host not only on the Indian Soil for Indian and expat companies, but also been an elegant and attractive anchor and overall element for events and productions overseas.

Sharma was a part of acclaimed 2017 Silver Screen drama – ‘Zindagi ki mahek‘ on the popular TV Channel Zee TV. Apart from shows, promotional print projects and shoots, she has been an integral part of a Music video called ‘ladki selfie queen’ with singer-rapper Abhinniks.

When a lavish gathering like grand birthday parties or big fat Indian weddings comes in mind, you need a confident, mature and beautiful energy to take over and get the show going; and Sharma has been a favorite among known event organizing brands like Katalyst, Akshara Communications, Moksh AEPL Plan my shaadi, Creative Star events, Musical Dream Events, Saiworx Entertainment, JR Events and many more.

With her Glitz and Charisma she has also handled a versatile range of events like Press meets, exhibitions, seminar etc. She has also taken in the lead in corporate HR activities like employee day, family day celebrations and large-scale team building gatherings, off sites trips, R & D events etc. organized by who’s who of the market. In the Pipeline, she has 2 music videos, a few Punjabi and Bollywood movies, along with current media, brand product shoot and social assignment commitments.

Inputs from Mumbai Bureau & fashion desk of OECEL.

Language, in fact, is an amazing tool of unhampered eloquence in ‘Firaaq’. The characters in the riot-torn city speak in three languages Hindi, English and Gujarati. They do so without design or self-conscious purpose. The outstanding words do not stand outside the characters’ ambit of everyday [removed]some- times colloquial, otherwise poetic).

Even when the narrative pauses to debate the polemics of communal politics among the characters, we the audience are one with the pause. This is excellence without the silent sound of applause. The spoken words are not designed for the camera. They are said be- cause they have to be expressed.’Firaaq’ first and foremost deserves the highest praise for the remarkably even-pitched writing by Nandita Das and Shuchi Kothari. No character jumps out of the screen in trying to make its presence felt.

The people who live in Nandita’s film are the?people we know in one way or another. And yet?they are here, special in a very unobtrusive?way. The narrative episodes, written with finesse and passion, are constructed to accentuate the post- communal friction among people who till the other day were neighbors.

There is a mixed-married Hindu-Muslim couple. Before the day is done the husband (played with silent sincerity by Sanjay Suri) has made peace with his environment and the fact that his name is Sameer Sheikh, not Sameer Desai. Sameer in the context of the film’s volatile communal statement becomes a metaphor for the Hindu-Muslim divide which is now a looming reality in middle class lives.?The tact and grace with which ‘Firaaq’ weaves through the communal tensions of un- related characters all joined by their collective fear of a communal backlash are signs of a time when cinema and society at large need to do a serious rethink on their responsibilities. ‘Firaaq’ throws forward an assortment of unrelated characters zigzagging across a do- main of doomed conscientiousness. Nandita Das’s narrative doesn’t attempt to unravel the enigma of a disaster-borne civilization. It looks at the people, even the lowest and scummiest of them (including Paresh Rawal who bravely plays a middle class businessman who happily looted a Muslim shop and shared in his brother’s participative glee in a gang rape) with a kind of reined-in empathy that makes even the seeming perpetrators look like victims. The villains, if any, are the administrative personnel shown to be running around abetting the violence. If this is a simplification in story- telling then it can’t be helped.

Celluloid depictions of troubled times have to somewhere find tangible figures to blame for the in- justice. Otherwise we would come away from a certifiable masterpiece like ‘Firaaq’ wondering if there’s any sense of justice left in this chaotic world of self-serving brutality.

Das’ narrative is propelled forward by powerful characters played by actors who not only know their job but?also know how to make their jobs look like anything but professional hazard. It would be criminal to pick performances.  Deepti Naval (looking like a ravaged guilt-ridden?avatar of the nurturing foster-mom Sharmila Tagore in Shakti Samanta’s ‘Amar Prem’), Paresh Rawal (as a trashy unscrupulous bourgeois broker) and of course the redoubtable Naseeruddin Shah (as an aged classical singer caught in a sub-?lime time-warp) deliver performances that glisten with glory and sensitivity. But there are dozens of other known and unknown ac- tors furnishing Das’ gripping drama with an inner voice that screams in protest without overstatement. The interactive drama bringing together people during crises never lapses into hysteria and homilies. The beauty of the drama of the disinherited is never diluted by clinging on to the inherent drama of any given situation.

Like life, Nandita Das’ narrative moves on with confident steps creating for itself a kind of compelling circumstance when crises are a giv?en, compromise a compulsion and surrender to fate the only means of survival. Haunting and powerful in its depiction of a time when humanity is frozen in anguish and terror, ‘Firaaq’ draws its tremendous strength from the screenplay and characters which seem to observe life’s keenest and meanest blows without flinching. Here’s a film that must be seen not be- cause it tells a story that touches every life. But because it touches our lives with such persuasiveness without resorting to Overstatement.

– OE News Bureau

Mannara Chopra is an Indian film actress and model who predominantly works in Hindi and Telugu films. She is the cousin of famous actress Priyanka Chopra. She made her Bollywood debut with the film Zid in 2014. After completing her education, Mannara moved to Mumbai, where she started her career in modeling and moved into advertising. She made 30-35 commercials, three of them alongside her cousin Priyanka Chopra, including one for Dabur Amla Hair Oil, which she said won her “instant recognition” and landed her an offer in Telugu films. She had also appeared in Amit Trivedi’s song ‘”Bas bajna chahiye”, the theme song for Gaana.com. Besides, she has worked as a fashion designer and as an assistant choreographer, being trained in dance forms like hip hop and belly dancing. She has done four more films post ZID. In a candid discussion with Nithya Ramesh, Mannara speaks about her personal and professional life.

Shifting from modelling to acting was a conscious decision?

Modelling to acting was a very interesting journey. It was exciting to play some completely other character than my own unlike modeling which is all about being yourself, showcasing your own attitude.

You were always inclined towards creative field?

I was attracted towards creative arts from a very early age, I majorly owe this inclination to my sister who I saw playing various roles. Off course family plays a major part of our life and career choices.

You have trait of showbiz?

Fashion designing or choreography is all about creativity. Both need an intricate eye for something unique and different, it’s all about aesthetics.

What is special in acting professional?

I being able to be in the skin of a completely different person is the most enthralling experience in acting. It makes you be in another person’s shoes, even if for a short time but it personally is a very enriching experience.

Being part of the established family in showbiz is an advantage?

Being a superstar’s cousin comes with a lot of advantages as well as responsibilities. It’s challenging to be able to live up to expectations but yes it definitely helps to make wiser choices and be in the right circle of people.

You are a solo or team person?

For me it’s always about team work. I’m a people’s person,I enjoy being around people. It’s always a pleasure to meet new teams of such hardworking and talented people. It’s always a pleasure.

Your first experience of facing live camera?

At first, facing the camera is overwhelming. But for me my affair with camera is always overwhelming. I love it!

Share your chemistry of working with super stars in Bollywood?

I have worked with Salman khan for a Suzuki commercial, so would love to work with him .have worked with director Imtaz Ali for a Parle Marie Tvc so he is my favorite. In south I wanted to work with Puri Jagan who launched faces like Kangana, Ileana in south also known for his Hindi film Buddha hoga tera baap. I consider myself to be very lucky to be working with him in his upcoming film ROGUE.

Update on your future projects?

Two of my films just got released last year in Telugu Jakkana and Thikka. Now this year had a New film (A grand release Puri Jaggarnath film )-ROUGE. It’s a bilingual film while will mark my debut in Kannada industry too other than releasing in Telegu.

Your preference is family or work?

For me I prefer to choose a balanced lifestyle. Work while I work but I need my time out with family and friends too. I like it fast when it’s fast but I can’t do without my own personal space, it recharges me. Home is where the heart is. For me it needs to be colorful and happy. I love minimalist decor; colors make homes bright and positive.

 – Interview conducted by Ms Nithya Ramesh for Opinion Express

Deana Uppal, former Miss India UK, will run the London marathon on July 9 this year to raise money for the “Charity Help Smile Trust”. This charity goes out to third world countries and provides plastic reconstructive surgery to people in the developing world who would otherwise have no access to it. Uppal has already raised more than £1000 for this noble cause. Indian British model and actress who will be seen as a Punjabi village girl in the film “Hard Kaur” gathered headlines when she participated in Big Brother 13 (UK) in 2012 and in the Indian reality show “Fear Factor: Khatron Ke Khiladi” in 2014. The feature film is being directed by Ajit Rampal.

Uppal is playing the role of Sirat, a simple village girl, who braves the harassment by the male-dominated society. Apart from “Hard Kaur”, she will also be seen as a British girl in “Yeh Hai India” releasing on Aug 4,2017. Uppal added a new talent to her long list of achievements, by releasing her first ever music video as a director ‘Main Kosa Rabb Nu’ by Shamshad With a successful business enterprise DKU World, which is a model and talent specialist agency based in Mumbai and London under her wing, she will be herself producing and directing a Punjabi film in the coming year. Deana Uppal has proved that there is nothing she cannot do.

No doubt, British Asian beauty Deana Uppal has a knack for artistic creativity as well as an aptitude for entrepreneurship. And, as an Indian woman, her efforts are inspirational to others. By showing that there is nothing holding you back except yourself.

(Inputs from Kapil Dudakia, United Kingdom Bureau)

The person instrumental in shaping India Montenegro ties is Dr Janice Darbari, a Delhi- based author has been selected for the position of Honorary Consul General for Republic of Montenegro in New Delhi. Darbari, who also contested the LokSabha polls in 1999 and 2004 from South Delhi, was appointed as the Special Representative  Emissary of the Republic of Macedonia to India in 1993. She also played key role in establishing formal diplomatic relationship with Former Yugoslavia Republic of Macedonia (FYRO) in 1995. The Republic of Montenegro honored her with the designation of Honorary Consul General Head of Mission for the Republic of Montenegro in India in 2007. After that the Indian government on its part recognized Darbari as the Honorary Consul General of the Republic of Montenegro in New Delhi with immediate effect from January 1, 2008

Q.Montenegro is a gateway to Europe; surely it can sell its strategic location to the world looking for political, business and cultural integration with European union. How Montenegro government plans to market this advantage?

A: National Geographic Traveler features Montenegro among the “50 Places of a Lifetime”, and Montenegrin seaside Sveti Stefan was used as the cover for the magazine. The coast region of Montenegro is considered one of the great new “discoveries” among world tourists. In January 2010, The New York Times ranked the Ulcinj South Coast region of Montenegro, including Velika Plaza, Ada Bojana, and the Hotel Mediteran of Ulcinj, as among the “Top 31 Places to Go in 2010” as part of a worldwide ranking of tourism destinations.Montenegro was also listed in “10 Top Hot Spots of 2009” to visit by yahoo Travel, describing it as “Currently ranked as the second fastest growing tour-ism market in the world (falling just behind China)”. It is listed every year by prestigious tourism guides like Lonely Planet as top touristic destination along with Greece, Spain and other world touristic places.

Q. with a total of 1.6 million visitors, the nation is the 36th (out of 47 countries) most visited country in Europe. Surely, the country must address the opportunity to tap global tourist potential to be the top ten destinations in Europe to enhance the revenue, your take?

A. The Government of Montenegro has set the development of Montenegro as an elite tourist destination a top priority. It is a national strategy to make tourism a major contributor to the Montenegrin economy. A number of steps were taken to attract foreign investors.

Q. Apart from the tourism, kindly indicate the core sectors wherein global business community can focus on to invest in Montenegro?

A. Information Technology, Higher Education, BPO/KPO, Banking, Insurance are the sectors wherein international investors can tap entire European market while setting up base in Montenegro.

Q. Montenegro has a multi religious society, though the recent threat from rouge ideology emanating from middle east Montenegro has any danger to tackle with the ominous problem?

A. Montenegro has been historically at the crossroads of multiculturalism and over centuries this has shaped its unique form of co-existence between Muslim and Christian population. Montenegrin have been, historically, members of the Serbian Orthodox Church (governed by the Metropolitanate of Montenegro and the Littoral), and Serbian Orthodox Christianity is the most popular religion today in Montenegro. The Montenegrin Orthodox Church was recently founded and is followed by a small minority of Montenegrin’s although it is not in communion with any other Christian Orthodox Church as it has not been officially recognized.

During the intensified tensions between religious groups during the Bosnian War, Montenegro has remained fairly stable, mainly due its population having a historic perspective on religious tolerance and faith diversity. Religious institutions from Montenegro all have guaranteed rights and are separate from the state. The second largest religious denomination religion is Islam, which amounts to 19% of the total population of the country. The Islamic religious life in Montenegro is organized by the Islamic Community of Montenegro. [citation needed] One third of Albanians are Catholics (8,126 in the 2004 census) while the two other thirds (22,267) are mainly Sunni Muslims ; in 2012 a protocol passed that recognizes Islam as an official religion in Montenegro, ensures that halal foods will be served at military facilities, hospitals, dormitories and all social facilities; and that Muslim women will be permitted to wear head- scarves in schools and at public institutions, as well as ensuring that Muslims have the right to take Fridays off work for the Jumu’ah (Friday)-prayer. There is also a small Roman Catholic population, mostly Albanians with some Croats, divided between the Archdiocese of Antivari headed by the Primate of Serbia and the Diocese of Kotor that is a part of the Church of Croatia.

Q. what is the road map planned to consolidate bilateral ties between India and Montenegro?

A. Our priority is to set up direct flight between India and Montenegro. It will fast track the people to people relations leading to greater business activities.

Q. Montenegro is part of NATO; however the relevance of NATO is diminishing in the new world order. How your country is bracing itself from the new reality?

A. NATO is relevant in the present world and Montenegro will remain committed to the objective of the NATO.

Q. there is a massive competition between the various emerging countries to model themselves as the knowledge economy, how your government is bracing to the new reality of the world? 

A. Montenegro leadership is aware of the importance of knowledge economy and our government is building up the necessary infrastructure to address the issue. We are fortunate to have a solid physical and digital infrastructure in the country and the focus is there to improve the technical education for capacity building. We have a strong economy and steadily, our government is promoting knowledge industry by inviting global experts and investors. Surely, Montenegro strategic location being the gateway to Europe adds to the entire push of the government.

Article & Interview conducted by Prashant Tewari

The tiny country of the south eastern Europe is an emerging destination for tourists world over

Montenegro, one of the most beautiful and emerging new destinations of the world, is a sovereign state in South Eastern Europe. It has a coast on the Adriatic Sea to the south-west and is bordered by Croatia to the west, Bosnia and Herzegovina to the north- west, Serbia to the northeast, Kosovo to the east, and Albania in the south east.

It was founded on 03 Jun 2006 and has a population of 6,22,400 (2015) with a GDP of $4.250 billion USD (2016). Montenegro Capital city is Podgorica and Cetinje is designated as the Old Royal Capital. The country is having area of 13,810 km?2; (5,333 sq miles) with a density of 45/km2 (116.5/sq mi). The country’s present president is Filip Vujanovi? and prime minister Duško Markovi?. Its legislature is called Skupština.

After the breakup of yugoslavia in 1992, the republics of Serbia and Montenegro together established a federation as the Federal Republic of yugoslavia, although its status as the legal successor to yugoslavia was opposed by other former republics and denied by the United Nations; in 2003, it renamed itself Serbia and Montenegro. On the basis of an independence referendum held in 21 May 2006, Montenegro declared independence on 3 June.

Classified by the World Bank as an upper middle-income country, Montenegro is a member of the UN, the World Trade Organization, the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe, the Council of Europe, the Central European Free Trade Agreement and a founding member of the Union for the Mediterranean. Montenegro is also a candidate negotiating to join the European Union and NATO.

On 2 December, 2015, Montenegro received an official invitation to join NATO, hereby it would be the 29th member country.

The status of the union between Montenegro and Serbia was decided by a referendum on Montenegrin independence on 21 May 2006. A total of 419,240 votes were cast, representing 86.5% of the total electorate; 230,661 votes (55.5%) were for independence and 185,002 votes (44.5%) were against. This narrowly surpassed the 55% threshold needed to validate the referendum under the rules set by the European Union. According to the electoral commission, the 55% threshold was passed by only 2,300 votes. Serbia, the member-states of the European Union, and the permanent members of the United Nations Security Council all recognised Montenegro’s independence.

On 3 June 2006, the Montenegrin Parliament declared the independence of Montenegro, formally confirming the result of the referendum. Serbia did not object to the declaration. On 12 July 2011, the Parliament of Montenegro passed the Law on the Status of the Descendants of the Petrovi? Njegoš Dynasty that rehabilitated the Royal House of Montenegro and recognized limited symbolic roles within the constitutional framework of the republic.

In 2015, the investigative journalists’ network OCCRP has named Montenegro’s long time President and Prime Minister Milo ?ukanovi? ‘Person of the year in Organized Crime’. The extent of ?ukanovi?’s corruption led to street demonstrations and calls for his removal. In October 2016, a coup was attempted by 20 people, including some Serbian and Russian nationalists; the coup was thwarted.

foreign relations of Montenegro

After the promulgation of the Declaration of Independence in the Parliament of the Republic of Montenegro on 3 June 2006, following the independence referendum held on 21 May, the Government of the Republic of Monte- negro assumed the competences of defining and conducting the foreign policy of Montenegro as a subject of international law and a sovereign state. The implementation of this constitutional responsibility was vested in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, which was given the task of defining the foreign policy priorities and activities needed for their implementation. These activities are pursued in close cooperation with other state administration authorities, the President, the Speaker of the Parliament, and other relevant stakeholders.

Integration into the European Union is Montenegro’s strategic goal. This process will remain in the focus of Montenegrin foreign policy in the short term. The second strategic and equally important goal, but one attainable in a shorter time span, is joining NATO, which would guarantee stability and security for pursuing other strategic goals. Montenegro believes NATO integration would speed up EU integration.

Military of Montenegro

The military of Montenegro is a fully professional standing army under the Ministry of Defence and is composed of the Montenegrin Ground Army, the Montenegrin Navy, and the Montenegrin Air Force, along with Special Forces. Conscription was abolished in 2006. The military currently maintains a force of 1,920 active duty members. The bulk of its equipment and forces were inherited from the armed forces of the State Union of Serbia and Montenegro; as Montenegro contained the entire coastline of the former union, it retained practically the entire naval force.

Montenegro is a member of NATO’s Partnership for Peace program and is an official candidate for full membership in the alliance. Montenegro applied for a Membership Action Plan on November 5, 2008, which was granted in December 2009. Montenegro is also a member of Adriatic Charter.

Montenegro was invited to join NATO on December 2, 2015 and is expected to be NATO’s 29th member in 2017. On May 19, 2016, NATO and Montenegro conducted a signing ceremony at NATO headquarters in Brussels for Montenegro’s member- ship invitation, despite Russia’s objections. The government plans to have the army participate in peacekeeping missions through the UN and NATO such as the International Security Assistance Force.

Economy of Montenegro

Montenegro uses the Euro as its national currency. The economy of Montenegro is mostly service-based and is in late transition to a market economy. According to the International Monetary Fund, the nominal GDP of Montenegro was $4.114 billion in 2009. The GDP PPP for 2009 was $6.590 billion, or $10,527 per capita. According to eurostat data, the Montenegrin GDP per capita stood at 41% of the eU average in 2010. The Central Bank of Montenegro is not part of the euro system but the country is euroized using the euro unilaterally as its currency.

GDP grew at 10.7% in 2007 and 7.5% in 2008. The country entered a recession in 2008 as a part of the global recession, with GDP contracting by 4%. However, Montenegro remained a target for foreign investment, the only country in the Balkans to increase its amount of direct foreign investment. The country is expected to exit the recession in mid-2010, with GDP growth predicted at around 0.5%. However, the significant dependence of the Montenegrin economy on foreign direct investment leaves it susceptible to external shocks and a high export/import trade deficit.

Economy – overview

Montenegro’s economy is transitioning to a market system. From the beginning of the privatization process in 1999 through 2015, around 85% of Montenegrin state-owned companies have been privatized, including 100% of banking, telecommunications, and oil distribution. Tourism brings in twice as many visitors as Montenegro’s total population every year. Several new luxury tourism complexes are in various stages of development along the coast, and a number are being offered in connection with nearby boating and yachting facilities.

Montenegro uses the euro as its domestic currency, though it is not an official member of the euro zone. In January 2007, Montenegro joined the World Bank and IMF, and in December 2011, the WTO. Montenegro began negotiations to join the eC in June, 2012, having met the conditions set down by the European Council, which called on Montenegro to take steps to fight corruption and organized crime.

The government recognizes the need to remove impediments in order to remain competitive and open the economy to foreign investors. The biggest foreign investors in Montenegro are Italy, Norway, Austria, Russia, Hungary and the UK. Net foreign direct investment in 2014 reached $483 million and investment per capita is one of the highest in Europe.

Montenegro is currently planning major overhauls of its road and rail networks, and possible expansions of its air transportation system. In 2014, the Government of Montenegro selected two Chinese companies to construct a 41 km-long section of the country’s highway system. Construction will cost around $1.1 billion. Montenegro first instituted a value added tax (VAT) in April 2003, and introduced differentiated VAT rates of 17% and 7% (for tour- ism) in January 2006.

In May 2013, the Montenegrin Government raised the higher level VAT rate to 19%. Podgorica Airport.

In 2007, the service sector made up for 72.4% of GDP, with industry and agriculture making up the rest at 17.6% and 10%, respectively. There are 50,000 farming households in Montenegro that rely on agriculture to fill the family budget.

Montenegro Airlines was founded on 24th October 1994. The company is licensed to operate scheduled domestic and international passenger transport and charter operations, as well as for carriage of cargo and mail. Over the years, as the company, its fleet and the number of employees has grown, Montenegro Airlines has developed into a modern institution, operating in accordance with modern global standards. This assertion is backed up by our satisfied loyal passengers and numerous certificates and awards of merit.

Today, Montenegro Airlines operates scheduled flights to Zurich, Frankfurt, Dusseldorf, Rome, Paris, Ljubljana, Vienna, Belgrade, Moscow, Lyon, Copenhagen, London and Saint Petersburg successfully establishing an air bridge between Montenegro and Europe.

In addition to scheduled flights, we also operate charters to many destinations, including: Helsinki, Tel Aviv, Bratislava, Graz, Nantes, Teheran, Bari, Naples and others. The Montenegro Airlines fleet consists of 5 modern aircrafts; of which three of them type Embraer 195 and two other are Fokker 100. Future development plans for Montenegro Airlines include further modernization and enlargement of our fleet with more Embraer 195s. The company is committed to conquering new markets, opening new routes, increasing flights to current destinations and increasing the number of passengers served.

Infrastructure

The Montenegrin road infrastructure is not yet at Western European standards. Despite an extensive road network, no roads are built to full motorway standards. Construction of new motorways is considered a national priority, as they are important for uniform regional economic development and the development of Montenegro as an attractive tourist destination.

The backbone of the Montenegrin rail network is the Belgrade – Bar railway. This railway intersects with Nikši? Tirana (Albania) at Podgorica; however, it is not used for passenger service. Montenegro has two international airports, Podgorica Airport and Tivat Airport. The two airports served 1.1 million passengers in 2008. Montenegro Air- lines is the flag carrier of Montenegro.

The Port of Bar is Montenegro’s main seaport. Initially built in 1906, the port was almost completely destroyed during World War II, with reconstruction beginning in 1950. Today, it is equipped to handle over 5 million tons of cargo annually, though the breakup of the former yugoslavia and the size of the Montenegrin industrial sector have resulted in the port operating at a loss and well below capacity for several years. The reconstruction of the Belgrade-Bar railway and the proposed Belgrade-Bar motorway are expected to bring the port back up to capacity.

Tourism

Montenegro has both a picturesque coast and a mountainous northern region. The country was a well-known tourist spot in the 1980s. yet, the yugoslav wars that were fought in neighbouring countries during the 1990s crippled the tourist industry and damaged the image of Montenegro for years. With a total of 1.6 million visitors, the nation is the 36th (out of 47 countries) most visited country in Europe.

The Montenegrin Adriatic coast is 295 km (183 mi) long, with 72 km (45 mi) of beaches, and with many well preserved ancient old towns. National Geographic Traveller (edited once in decade) features Montenegro among the "50 Places of a Lifetime", and Montenegrin seaside Sveti Stefan was used as the cover for the magazine. The coast region of Montenegro is considered one of the great new "discoveries" among world tourists. In January 2010, The New york Times ranked the Ulcinj South Coast region of Montenegro, including Velika Plaza, Ada Bojana, and the Hotel Mediteran of Ulcinj, as among the "Top 31 Places to Go in 2010" as part of a worldwide ranking of tourism destinations.

Montenegro was also listed in ‘10 Top Hot Spots of 2009’; to visit by yahoo Travel, describing it as ‘Currently ranked as the second fastest growing tourism market in the world (falling just behind China)’. It is listed every year by prestigious tourism guides like Lonely Planet as top tourist destination along with Greece, Spain and other world touristic places.

It was not until the 2000s that the tourism industry began to recover, and the country has since experienced a high rate of growth in the number of visits and overnight stays. The Government of Montenegro has set the development of Montenegro as an elite tourist destination a top priority. It is a national strategy to make tourism a major contributor to the Montenegrin economy. A number of steps were taken to attract foreign investors. Some large projects are already under way, such as Porto Montenegro, while other locations, like Jaz Beach, Buljarica, Velika Plaža and Ada Bojana, have perhaps the greatest potential to attract future investments and become premium tourist spots on the Adriatic.

Education in Montenegro

Education in Montenegro is regulated by the Montenegrin Ministry of Education and Science. Education starts in either pre schools or elementary schools. Children enroll in elementary schools (Montenegrin: Osnovna škola) at the age of 6; it lasts 9 years. The students may continue their secondary education (Montenegrin: Sred- nja škola), which lasts 4 years (3 years for trade schools) and ends with graduation (Matura). Higher education lasts with a certain first degree after 3 to 6 years. There is one public University (University of Montenegro) and two private (Mediterranean University and University of Donja Gorica).

Elementary education in Montenegro is free and compulsory for all the children between the ages of 6 and 14. Secondary schools are divided in three types, and children attend one depending on choice and primary school grades: Gymnasium (Gimnazija / ???????j?), lasts for four years and offers a general, broad education. It is a preparatory school for university, and hence the most academic and prestigious.

Professional schools (Stru?na škola / ??????? ?????) last for three or four years and specialize students in certain fields which may result in their attending college; professional schools offer a relatively broad education. Vocational schools (Zanatska škola / ???????? ?????) last for three years and focus on vocational education (e.g., joinery, plumbing, and mechanics) without an option of continuing education after three years.

Tertiary level institutions are divided into ‘Higher education’; (Više obrazovanje) and ‘High education’ (Visoko obrazovanje) level faculties. Colleges (Fakultet) and art academies (akademija umjetnosti) last between 4 and 6 years (one year is two semesters long) and award diplomas equivalent to a Bachelor of Arts or a Bachelor of Science degree.

Post-graduate education (post diplomske studije) is offered after tertiary level and offers Masters’ degrees, PhD and specialization education.

Montenegrin cuisine

Montenegrin cuisine is a result of Montenegro’s long history. It is a variation of Mediterranean and Oriental. The most influence is from Italy, Turkey, Byzantine empire Greece, and as well from Hungary. Montenegrin cuisine also varies geographically; the cuisine in the coastal area differs from the one in the northern highland region. The coastal area is traditionally a representative of Mediterranean cuisine, with seafood being a common dish, while the northern represents more the Oriental.

Media of Montenegro

The media of Montenegro refers to mass media outlets based in Montenegro. Television, magazines, and newspapers are all operated by both state-owned and for-profit corporations which depend on advertising, subscription, and other sales-related revenues. The Constitution of Montenegro guarantees freedom of speech. As a country in transition, Montenegro’s media system is under transformation.

Broadcast media

State-funded national radio-TV broadcaster operates 2 terrestrial TV networks, 1 satellite TV channel, and 2 radio networks; 4 public TV stations and some 20 private TV stations; 14 lo- cal public radio stations and more than 40 private radio stations (2007)

The person instrumental in shaping India Montenegro ties is Dr Janice Darbari, a Delhi-based author has been selected for the position of Honorary Consul General for Republic of Montenegro in New Delhi.

Darbari, who also contested the Lok Sabha polls in 1999 and 2004 from South Delhi, was appointed as the Special Representative – Emissary of the Republic of Macedonia to India in 1993. She also played key role in establishing formal diplomatic relationship with Former yugoslavia Republic of Macedonia (FyRO) in 1995.

The Republic of Montenegro hon- oured her with the designation of Honorary Consul General  Head of Mission for the Republic of Montenegro in India in 2007. After that the Indian government on its part recognized Darbari as the Honorary Consul General of the Republic of Montenegro in New Delhi with immediate effect from January 1, 2008.

-BY OPINION EXPRESS

She is a role model for Indian women who knows how to balance between work and home. Model Ruhani Sharma says that while modelling is an extremely challenging profession, she knows how to prioritize and look after her daughter. Now, a resident of Hong Kong, Ruhani won the Mrs India Queen 2013. “Modelling is an extremely hectic profession but it is important to maintain a balance and give time to the family,” she says.

She has loads of international experience in big shows across PAN-Asia, Europe and USA and her celebrity status in Asia adds an X-factor. Her achievements have been captured the imagination of New York and the very prestigious magazine of NY “Prime time” interviewed her and the same was published in their February edition 2015.

She has been associated with Asian Film Awards (Oscars of Asia) for last three years, walking the red carpet with Bollywood and Asian film celebrities regularly.

Besides, recently she walked at marquee events like Los Angeles Fashion Week (October 2016), London Fashion Week House of Ikons (Sep 2016), Dubai Fashion Week London (Jan 2016), Mercedes Benz Fashion Week Doha (Dec 2015), Africa Fashion Week London (Aug 2015), London Fashion Week House of Ikons (Sep 2015), New York Fashion Week (Sep 2015) Ruhani has been walking for top designers at various London Fashion Weeks for last couple of years. She was highly complemented by the designers for her amazing presence on the ramp, her personality and the way she showcased their clothes on the ramp.

From an engineer to assisting a cult director like Ram Gopal Verma, it has been brisk journey for Nithya. She is a 23-year-old qualified Industrial engineer from RV College of Engineering with 2 years of experience in the IT world worked for Cognizant (Bangalore). She was born in Kerala and after she turned four, her family moved to Bangalore. She is currently working as an assistant director with Ram Gopal Varma for Sarkar 3.

Since childhood, her dream was to become an actress and she has been getting a lot of offers from Tamil, Telugu, Kannada and Malayalam industry but she is waiting for the right script to target the audience who always believe in the right story and cast.

“While working with Cognizant, I got connected with Director Puri Jagannadh who introduced me to RGV who I always admired since a kid for his breathtaking movies like Shiva, Rangeela, Bhoot, Phoonk, Sarkar and Raktha Charitra,” says Nithya. “After talking to me for a few hours about my Horror scripts which I had written since my engineering days RGV was impressed with scripts and my passion for films and advised me to first learn the art of film making which would help me understand the technical and casting aspects of film making and offered me the role of an assistant director for Sarkar 3 and I moved to Mumbai,” she adds.

“I have always consider RGV, Puri Jagannadh and Thriekoti Peta as my mentors since the day one of me entering the film world. They always supported me to go ahead with my passion. Not to forget I always had my dad and mom who supported my passion for films and always wanted to see me succeed in films, My dad would sit with me during the weekends to discuss my script and also helped me with new ideas to add to my script, Recently I had lost my father in a road accident after which I had a lot of hurdles in my life and I am slowly trying to overcome them with my confidence to be a successful director in future and someday want to make my dad proud,” Nithya avers.

Puri Jagannadh recently launched the first look of “Never Invite” which is a horror flick. Along with scripting and directing, Nithya also plays the lead role. “Never Invite” will be released in April and jointly produced by USA based production house Earth Kraft Films. The film is being released in four languages Tamil, Telugu, Kannada & Malayalam. Apart from the short film, she is working on a feature film with a horror script which is a multilingual to be made in all regional languages with a complete new set of talented technicians and casting for feature film and the story is based on true incident that happened in Rajasthan. “For now, I can just say that the story is all about a doll and some ugly incidents that took place in Rajasthan. I have recently tied up with a Hollywood production house in USA for a feature film and will be travelling to California to get involved with the Horror script and will be working with Kathy smith on the casting part, We plan to cast few familiar faces from Hollywood and plan to shoot the film in Spain and London.

Right now I signed up a International album for Bollywood as a the main lead and music is by the famous music director Sunny Viswanath from Kerala and the song is sung by a well known and eminent singer from Bollywood,” she says. Apart from direction, she will be producing three short films in all regional languages.

This is basically to give life to all the upcoming directors, actors and other technicians. The selection process will be run through a lot of famous names from the film industry and the best script will be chosen and given a chance for direction and acting.

(Opinion Express Entertainment Desk – Inputs from Diwakar Shetty)

MODEL & ACTOR

Location: United States

Height: 5’7”

Languages: Gujrati, French, Spanish, Hindi

Degrees: Tufts University, BS, Medford, MA Biology and Philosophy Columbia University, MA, NY, NY Media and Technology in Education Universidad Complutense, Academic Scholarship, Madrid, Spain Studied Spanish Language and Culture

SHEETAL SHAH has been a filmmaker and an educator for the past 10 years and an actor and performance poet for the past 8 years. Right now she is the NY representative to the UN for the human rights NGO Nord-Sud XXI with whom she has been doing work on climate change at the UN and various global climate hang conferences including closely working with Bolivia frothier conference in Cochabamba. She is the best actress recipient for the 2005 SAMA and has performed in TV, film and theatre including at Lincoln Center, VH1 and The Daily Show. As a performance poet she has been part of the group poetic people power (www.poeticpeoplepower.com) for the past four years performing at venues throughput NYC. Her most recent gigs were a commercial on ZeeTV and host for the WHCC World of Colors concert.

PERFORMER SKILLS

Performance Skills: Dancing, Voiceover, Host, Medical Equipment, Improvisation

Athletic Skills: Aerobics, Swimming, Tennis, Soccer, Track & Field, Track & Field

Accents: New York (Brooklyn), Middle Eastern, West Indian, British, Spanish, Indian/South Asian, Southern, French, Jamaican, New York (Bronx)

Spoken Languages: Gujrati, French, Spanish, Hindi Musical Instruments: Tabla, Djembe

Dance: Club/Freestyle, Hip Hop, Robot, Capoeira, Salsa, Belly, Modern

TRAINING

Maggie Flanigan Studios, NY, NY, Acting, Movement, Shakespeare, Voice and Speech, Maggie Flanigan, April Yvette Thompson, Scott Hudson, Susan Schuld, Nate Flowers, Danielle Liccardo, 2006 Two-year Acting Conservatory Program. LAByrinth Theatre Master Class, NY, NY, Acting, Movement, Stage Combat, 2008 Kristin Linklater, NY, NY, Voice and Speech, Kristin Linklater Basic to Intermediate Voice and Speech workshops Brooke Thomas and Mary Egan, NY, NY, On Camera Commercial Training, Casting Directors Brooke Thomas and Mary Egan “On Camera Commercial Intensive” course.

AWARDS

South Asian Media Awards, Best Actress, 2005