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Showing posts with label Culture. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Culture. Show all posts

Lalbaug cha Raja - From the Pages of History | Ganeshotsav 2025

Priya Adivarekar
Think of Lalbaugcha Raja and what's the first thing that comes to your mind? Grandeur? Celebrities? Crowd? Wish Fulfilling? Well, Mumbai's very own beloved 'Raja' had humble beginnings. Ever wondered what the initial idols looked like? Or how the mandal was formed? Read on to know all about one of Mumbai's renowned pandals - Lalbaugcha Raja.



The Mandal - which was then known as the Sarvajanik Ganeshotsav Mandal (Lalbaug) was set up in 1934 in a simple locality, which was then known as Peru Chawl. The chawl and nearby market was forced to shut in 1932 and the locals - mostly fishermen and vendors, vowed to get a Ganpati if their wish was fulfilled. As their vow was fulfilled, the locals formed a committee and in 1934, the first ever idol was welcomed! The ganpati became famous as the 'Market cha Raja' or 'Market cha Ganpati'. As more and more devotees began queueing up to make a wish or fulfil their vows, Navsacha Ganpati and Lalbaugcha Raja became popular names.


The Ganpati idol of Lalbaugcha Raja has been created and designed by the Kambli family of Mumbai since 1935. Earlier, the idol would change every year as per theme and backdrop. Every year, the Mandal would pick a unique theme, ranging from independence struggle to mythological stories & social issues. According to locals, the mandal played a key role during the freedom struggle. In 1949, they have even had a Mahatma Gandhi inspired idol. 


All Archive Images - Credit: Lalbaugcha Raja Sarvajanik Ganeshotsav Mandal

However, post 1990, things changed. The overall set up became much simpler, with just a basic backdrop. The idol was seated on a king style throne. But, the idol features and pose would change every year (till 2007). Some felt it matched the name given by locals, which is - Lalbaug cha Raja (King of Lalbaug). As crowds began to swell, the space required for themes & decorations, also became a major problem (as the pandal lane is narrow, with very little space in and around). Hence, sticking to a standard idol was seen as a good option. Since 2007 (till now), all idols have had the same features and pose. However, since 2015, the latest addition has been a unique throne (prabhaval). Some of the recent ones include Owl in 2016 (Goddess Laxmi's Vahan), and a Kurma Avatar (Turtle) in 2017. During the pandemic, the mandal organised a blood donation drive instead of the usual grand celebration in 2020. The following year, a smaller version of the idol was worshipped by the mandal trustees and members (large scale celebrations were cancelled across the country due to the pandemic, hence devotees were not allowed inside the pandal and other premises).


Adding a divine layer of symbolism and grandeur, this year’s Lalbaug cha Raja is a visual homage to Tirupati Balaji, both in spirit and design. Sculpted by the masterful Santosh Ratnakar Kambli of Murtikar Shree Kambli Arts, the idol dons a regal rani-pink velvet dhoti and an angavastram bearing the sacred SriVari namam — the iconic mark of Lord Venkateswara. His poised stance, with a chakra in one hand and a conch shell in the other, echoes themes of protection, power, and spiritual calm. Framed by golden pillars topped with elephant sculptures and his loyal vaahan, the mushak, the setup resembles a divine palace radiating opulence. The intricate decor, envisioned by art designer Yogesh Popat’s team, beautifully bridges South Indian temple aesthetics with Mumbai’s festive spirit, making this year's celebration both visually captivating and spiritually resonant.

 Did you know? In 2011, the Kambli family became the first idol sculptors to patent the Lalbaug cha Raja idol design. As the demand for replicas went up and several other sculptors began copying the idol's style and features, Ratnakar Kambli (who currently heads Kambli arts) applied for a patent, making this the first ever case of patent application for an idol. 


Over the years, while themes and idols have changed, one thing remains the same. The mandal, including locals, have always taken a step ahead when it comes to spreading awareness on social issues. Today, while the mandal does not have backdrops based on social activities, they organise events that help several major causes. Some of the prominent causes includes a dialysis centre, regular blood donation drives, plasma donation camp during the covid-19 crisis, computer training institutes with nominal fees, free IAS coaching among others.

No wonder they say - The King's empire is filled with love and support for everyone.

Join the conversation on


Love,
The Dancebee

Lalbaug cha Raja 2025 | Darshan, Aarti Timings, Travel and Other Details

Priya Adivarekar

 Ganesh Utsav is just a few days away, and devotees across the city are awaiting the first glimpse of Bappa with utmost patience and heartfelt excitement. Mumbaikars are all set to celebrate the much-awaited festival, and if you're out and about in the city, you will already spot various events marking the ‘Aagman Sohala’ (the ceremonial welcome of Lord Ganesha).


One of the most iconic and beloved pandals in Mumbai, Lalbaug cha Raja, is once again in the spotlight. Known for its spiritual significance and magnificent setups every year, the mandal is gearing up to welcome lakhs of devotees. The first look of Lalbaug cha Raja was unveiled on August 24, and Bappa’s divine presence left everyone in awe.


A Royal Tribute to Tirupati Balaji

This year’s 10-day celebration is nothing short of grand. Lalbaug cha Raja has been sculpted by the renowned Santosh Ratnakar Kambli of Murtikar Shree Kambli Arts, and the idol itself is a breathtaking tribute to Tirupati Balaji. Dressed in a regal rani-pink velvet dhoti and an angavastram adorned with the sacred SriVari namam, the divine mark of Lord Venkateswara; Bappa’s look this year blends traditional elegance with deep symbolism. In one hand, he holds a chakra, and in the other, a conch shell. Both powerful symbols of divinity, strength, and protection. His serene expression radiates calm and blessings. The idol is flanked by golden pillars, topped with intricately crafted elephants and his trusted vaahan, the mushak, creating the aura of a royal golden palace. The decor, designed by Yogesh Popat’s team, draws inspiration from South Indian temple architecture while maintaining the spirit of Mumbai’s vibrant celebration.



Darshan Details for Devotees

Like every year, devotees have two Darshan options. The first is the Mukh Darshan queue, which allows visitors to have Bappa’s Darshan from a short distance. This queue is relatively quick, usually taking around 30-45 minutes.

The second option is the Navsachi Rang, a special line for devotees who have made vows and wish to seek blessings through charan sparsh  (touching the feet of the idol on the main podium). This queue involves a much longer wait, typically 10 to 11 hours, and can extend to 18 hours on especially crowded days, such as weekends.

Both queues will begin with a morning aarti at 4:00 AM on August 27, 2025. Darshan will remain open round-the-clock until Visarjan Day, which falls on September 6, 2025.



Travel Information for Devotees

If you are planning to visit, here’s how you can reach the pandal:

By train, those on the Central line can get down at either Chinchpokli or Byculla station. If you’re traveling via the Western line, the nearest stop is Lower Parel. From there, it’s about a 7 to 10-minute walk. The Mukh Darshan queue can be accessed from B.R. Ambedkar Road. A useful landmark to look out for is the Lalbaug Market.

By road, several BEST buses operate from all parts of the city. However, keep in mind that a portion of the road near Ganesh Gully is usually closed during the 10-day festival. You can get off at Bharatmata Cinema bus stop and walk toward Lalbaug Market. On your way, you can also visit other prominent mandals such as Mumbai cha Raja and Tejukaya Mansion.

While public transport is highly recommended due to traffic and limited space, if you're planning to drive, there are a few pay-and-park facilities available in the area, including locations near S.S. Rao Road (Parel), G.D. Ambedkar Road (Kalachowky), Cottongreen (near the railway station), and Dr. B.A. Road near Byculla (East). From most of these parking spots, expect to walk around 10 to 15 minutes to reach the main pandal area.



Bappa is coming! Are you ready?

The excitement is building up, and Lalbaug cha Raja is once again ready to bless millions of devotees with his divine presence. Whether you’re visiting to seek blessings, witness the intricate artistry, or simply be part of the vibrant energy; there’s something special waiting for everyone.

Will you be visiting Lalbaug cha Raja or exploring other mandals across the city? We’d love to know! Share your experiences, photos, and moments with us.

Join the conversation:
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With love,
The Dancebee

Phullwanti Title Track | Lavani Choreography | Navratri Dance Series 2024

Priya Adivarekar

Here's one from the 4th edition of our 'Nritya ke Navrang' series. Sharing my performance on the popular  Phullwanti title track! This vibrant Lavani choreography, infused with Kathak, brings the energetic pulse of Maharashtra's folk dance to life. Originally performed by Prajakta Mali (seen essaying the title role in the Marathi film), this song (sung by Arya Ambekar) beautifully blends tradition with modern flair, and the choreography highlights the elegance and intensity of Lavani through expressions, footwork and graceful body movements.




Lavani is all about storytelling through rhythm, and my performance is designed to capture the spirit of the song—full of passion, power, and femininity. I wanted the energy of music, vibe of expressions and the entire choreography to come together and create a truly dynamic experience.


Check out the video to see the magic unfold! 🎶💃

Ganesh Utsav Tour | Top Pandals To Visit In Mumbai

Priya Adivarekar
It's that time of the year again, when streets of Mumbai are filled with lights, sounds of dhol-taasha and enthusiasm. The whiff of freshly made modaks and puranpolis is hard to miss, while markets are packed with people bargaining for the best deal on fresh flowers. Everybody's favourite, the adorable 'Lord Ganesha', makes his away into homes and pandals for a period of 11 blissful days. Ganesh Utsav, as the festival is popularly known as, starts on the fourth day of the Bhadrapad month in Hindu calendar, and ends on Anant Chaturdashi [fourteenth day] with Lord Ganesha's immersion procession. Mumbai glimmers and shines during these eleven wonderful days, with fairy lights and sounds of peaceful bhajans all around. During this period, several people visit their friends, families, and explore various sarvajanik [public] pandals. 



While Ganesh Chaturthi has been widely celebrated at homes even before the seventeenth century and was further celebrated on a large scale during the Shivaji Maharaj and Peshwa rule, it was only in 1893 that freedom fighter Lokmanya Tilak popularised Sarvajanik Ganesh Utsav. This was done as the means to unite people from all castes and thus, creating a sense of nationalism among citizens to oppose the British colonial rule. Since then, several mandals took to celebrating Sarvajanik Ganesh Utsav on a large scale, year after year. Over the years, certain mandals have carved their own niche and have become extremely popular. Some are 'wish-fulfilling', while the others are well known for their celebrity attendance, unique decorations, idols and some serious grandeur. In this post, we give you a round up of some of the most popular Ganesh Pandals in Mumbai, that witness a massive footfall every year.

Lalbaug Sarvajanik Ganesh Utsav Mandal [Mumbaicha Raja]
Popularly known as the Mumbai cha Raja or Ganesh Galli ganpati, the Lalbaug Sarvajanik Ganesh Utsav Mandal will enter it's 95th year in 2022. Every year, the mandal plans a special theme for the decor and has also won several awards for the same. This year, one can witness a replica of Varanasi's famous Kashi Vishwanath temple. The 22+ ft Mumbai cha Raja idol will be seen in a Vishwakarma avatar. The mandal is involved in a variety of charitable causes as well. Every year, a highlight is the special tribute paid to public service heroes and frontline warriors, who are invited as special guests for the Aarti by the mandal. The beautiful pandal witnesses massive footfall every day during the festival, with the crowd swelling during the last three days.

Mumbai cha Raja at Ganesh Galli, 2014 | © Diary of a Dancebee

Lalbaugcha Raja Sarvajanik Ganesh Utsav Mandal
Widely known as 'Navsacha Raja' or 'Wish fulfilling' Ganesha globally, the Lalbaugcha Raja Sarvajanik Ganesh Utsav Mandal is one of the most popular pandals in Mumbai - with the highest footfalls every year. Founded in 1934 (because of a vow fulfilled for the creation of the Lalbaug Market); Lalbaug Cha Raja Mandal has now entered the 89th year. Lakhs of devotees visit the pandal for a glimpse of the 'Raja' everyday. Devotees whose wish has been fulfilled the previous year opt for the 'Navas' queue, which lasts for close to 24 hours or even more. The pandal is open for darshan 24x7, with celebrities and locals coming in for the special evening aarti everyday. The idol has been sculpted by the Kambli family for the past eight decades. According to Balasaheb Kamble (President - Lalbaug Cha Raja Sarvajanik Ganeshotsav Mandal), "The theme this year would be based on the 'Ayodhya Ram Temple' - which is being designed by art director Nitin Chandrakant Desai. The designs shall reflect elements from the Ram Mandir, including a replica of the dome." He further added that a temple with Lord Rama's idol shall be placed at the entrance as well. Everybody's favourite 'Raja' will be back on his popular regal throne (while the celebrations were skipped in 2020, a smaller idol in Lord Vishnu avatar was created in 2021).
   
Lalbaug cha Raja - 2016

GSB Sarvajanik Ganesh Utsav (King's Circle)
The GSB Sarvajanik Ganesh Utsav Mandal at King's Circle celebrates the festival for a period of five days. This is one of the first mandals to introduce a 'skywalk' darshan facility, for those who need a quick glimpse of the lord. Various pujas are conducted all day long, starting from 6 am onwards and going right up to 11 pm. The special attraction here is the fact that this huge idol is made entirely of clay and is adorned with pure gold, silver jewellery every year. Devotees can also participate in pujas, tulabhar [weighing scale] seva or enjoy the entertainment programmes conducted by folk artists. Do not miss the special bhog prasad [food] which is served to all the devotees post aarti, twice a day. This year, devotees can book Pujas on their app and present the QR code to collect the Prasad.

GSB Mandal, King's Circle 2015 | © Diary of a Dancebee

Azad Nagar Sarvajanik Ganesh Utsav Mandal [Andhericha Raja]
Popularly known as 'Andheri cha Raja' - the mandal is well known for its unique temple inspired themes every year. However, this year the mandal has decided to skip a temple themed decor, and have opted to replicate the popular 'Laxmi Vilas Palace' (situated in Vadodara - Gujarat). Founded in 1966 by blue collared workers of Lalbaug, who had then moved to Andheri; Andheri cha Raja keep their idol for fifteen days and are among the few mandals that immerse the lord on Sankashti Chaturthi i.e four days after Anant Chaturdashi. This year, the mandal is expected to witnesses major footfall (especially now that the covid-19 restrictions are lifted). In the past, the mandal has won several awards for their marvellous decor.

Andheri Cha Raja 2015 | © Diary of a Dancebee

Tejukaya Sarvajanik Ganeshotsav Trust
Situated within the Tejukaya chawl premises, the Tejukaya Sarvajanik Ganesh Utsav Mandal has created its own niche in the past 56 years, thus becoming one of the popular mandals in the area and city.  In 2019, the mandal become the first to create a grand 22 feet idol using various recyclable materials. Founded by the residents of Tejukaya Chawl in 1966; a wonderful USP of this mandal is their majestic idol, which is presented in a different avatar every year, with the exact same facial features (especially the sharp, stunning eyes - that are hard to miss). One can also see a special dome, massive gate and carved elephant structures that shall be placed on both sides of the entry lane. It is truly a blessing to witness this beautiful idol in all his glory!

Raja Tejukaya Cha 2015 | © Diary of a Dancebee

GSB Sarvajanik Ganesh Utsav [Ram Mandir, Wadala]
Popularly known as the 'Gold Ganesha', the GSB Sarvajanik Ganesh Utsav Mandal at Wadala celebrates Ganesh Utsav for eleven days, with pujas and special aartis conducted every hour. It is also widely known as one of the first mandals to ensure their idol and all the gold ornaments, which are both created by the trust and donated by devotees. The mandal organises special folk entertainment, with plays, bhajans and dance performances going on all day. The 'Ratri Pooja' or 'Night aarti' should not be missed, as the sounds of traditional instruments and rituals will give you goosebumps [in a good way]. 

GSB Wadala 2015 | © Diary of a Dancebee


Some other popular mandals in Mumbai include:
Keshavji Naik Chawl (Girgaum) - Mumbai's first ganesh mandal

Fort Vibhag Sarvajanik Ganesh Utsav Mandal (Fort) - Known as Icchapurti Ganesh, among the first ones to have a dedicated song of their mandal

Sahyadri Krida Mandal (Chembur) - One of the most popular and award winning mandal in South Central Mumbai, best known for it's grand decor and larger than life themes

Girgaum cha Maharaj (Girgaum) - One of the tallest and oldest clay idols in Mumbai

Lal Maidan Icchapurti Ganpati [Parel] - Witnesses major footfall for their grand decorations

Parel cha Raja [Parel] - Well known for supporting various charitable and social causes. Also known for spreading messages supporting the environment

So, which pandal will you be visiting this year? Team Dancebee will be visiting most of these pandals in 2022. Follow our live updates on Instagram and Snapchat at @priyaadivarekar

Love,
The Dancebee

5 Books to Look Out for in 2021 (January to June)

Priya Adivarekar

 Here's wishing all our lovely readers and followers from across the globe a very happy and blessed new year. I hope and pray that 2021 brings in positivity, new opportunities, and happiness in your life. For my first post in a brand new year, I wanted to share a list of books that I am looking forward to reading in 2021, or should I rather say - the most anticipated titles that I am waiting to get my hands on in the year ahead. All of us can do with a good read, or two (maybe lots more for bibliophiles like some of us). 

So, get your wish-list ready and take notes:





Unfinished - A memoir 

Author: Priyanka Chopra Jonas

Launch Date: February 9, 2021



Of course, this one's for all the fans of our very own desi girl! While some bibliophiles might think otherwise, I - for one, strongly believe that a lot of entertainment aficionados are looking forward to this memoir, which promises to highlight some key aspects from the international icon's life. From her dual-continent twenty-year-long career as an actor and producer to her work as a UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador, from losing her beloved father to cancer to marrying Nick Jonas; Chopra-Jonas' wants to inspire her fans and the younger generations with her personal story and experiences, with an aim to gather their courage, embrace their ambition and to work hard towards their dream.


Klara and the Sun

Author: Kazuo Ishiguro

Launch Date: March 2, 2021 



Acclaimed author Kazuo Ishiguro's first novel since the winning the Nobel Prize in 2017 - Klara and the Sun promises to introduce the readers to a technologically advanced world. A future packed with dystopian elements, and an insight into our rapidly changing world, through the eyes of an interesting narrator. The story focuses on Klara, an 'Artificial Friend' with outstanding observational qualities. Fans of Ishiguro are excited to experience his 'sci-fi' return, and have been patiently waiting for the launch.



First Person Singular Stories

Author: Haruki Murakami

Launch Date: April 6, 2021



A much anticipated collection of eight first-person short stories by best selling Japanese author Haruki Murakami. The stories span across various themes and experiences - from memories of youth, ardent love of baseball, to dreamlike scenarios and invented jazz albums; all with the signature Murakami twist. The collection aims to challenge the boundaries between our minds and the exterior world. However, it promises to pose an integral question. - Is it a memoir or fiction? Well, apparently - this is something the reader gets to decide.


Whereabouts

Author: Jhumpa Lahiri

Launch Date: April 27, 2021



Close to a decade post the release of acclaimed author Jhumpa Lahiri’s last novel The Lowland - we’ve got a brand new novel. Whereabouts focuses on a woman, who navigates the complexities of work, love and life. Shuffling between the need to belong and the refusal to form lasting ties, until one day, a day at the sea changes her perspective forever. It makes the reader ponder as to what ‘Transformation’ truly means. Brimming with the impulse to cross barriers; this would be Lahiri’s first novel to be written in Italian, and translated into English. We are quite excited already!


Great Circle

Author: Maggie Shipstead

Launch Date: May 4, 2021



Set during the Prohibition-era Montana, and spanning across the Pacific Northwest, Alaska, New Zealand, wartime London, and modern-day Los Angeles - author Maggie Shipstead’s Great Circle moves across decades, with daredevil female protagonists (living in different times) at the centre. The women, both ambitious and destined to determine their own futures, are determined to chart their own course in life, at any cost. This would be Shipstead’s third novel, which took about two years to write, as it took a lot of research and traveling for the author to put together the novel.


So, which book are you excited to read? Any titles outside of this list that are you looking forward to reading this year?


Join the conversation on

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Love,

The Dancebee

Bappa Morya Re Series | Part I - Lalbaugcha Raja

Priya Adivarekar
With less than 24 hours to go for one of the year's biggest festivals, the countdown to Ganesh Utsav has officially begun. In fact, it kickstarted almost a fortnight ago, with multiple 'aagman' events  and first look photo sessions. But, the city was waiting with bated breath to catch a glimpse of the king, none other than the renowned - Lalbaugcha Raja (also locally known as the Marketcha Raja). The first look was revealed earlier this week and needless to say, the charming idol left everyone mesmerised.


In it's 84th year, the folks at Lalbaugcha Raja Sarvajanik Ganeshotsav Mandal have created a stunning gold Raj Mahal as the backdrop. It has been designed by art director Nitin Desai, whose impeccable work this year looks royal and attractive. Devotees who were eager to get a sneak peek at the idol's throne (ganesh prabhaval) this year were in for a pleasant surprise, as the King was seen seated on a gorgeous turtle throne. The overall look of the idol (inclusive of throne), created by Santosh Kambli, has been designed on the lines of Lord Vishnu's second avatar - Kurma, who according to the puranas, appeared at the time of crisis in the cosmic equilibrium.  

This year, the mandal was also in the news for getting an insurance cover of Rs 51 crore, which includes not just the idol and ornaments, but also their volunteers, mandap and third-party liabilities among others. For DTH and live coverage on mobile, the mandal has joined hands with Shemaroo, continuing their 6-7 year association.

For our those of you who aren't aware Lalbaug cha Raja has been well known as the 'Navsacha raja'.  Especially among those who make a vow and come back the following year to fulfil their 'Navas'. These devotees join the 'Navsachi Rang' (queue for devotees with a vow). Every year, lakhs of devotees stand for more than 20 hours (the number goes up to almost 30 hours during the last 2-3 days) and are the only ones (apart from VVIP dignitaries) who get the golden opportunity to rest their head on the Raja's paduka and take his blessings. I have personally had the fortune of being a part of this 'Navas' queue several years back and honestly, was super impressed with the arrangements. For those who can't stand for long hours, there is a 'Mukh Darshan' queue in and around the old Digvijay Mills compound. According to the mandal, they are expected to see a footfall of over 1 - 2 million devotees during the 11 day festival this year. And just like most of you, we can't wait to witness the grandeur of Lalbaugcha Raja. Stay tuned for more updates!


Mandal: Lalbaugcha Raja
Year: 84th
Area: Lalbaug (Mumbai)
How to get there: Nearest Station - Chinchpokli / Currey Road (Central), Lower Parel (Western) 
By Road - Stay on Babasaheb Ambedkar Road and take the exit before Lalbaug flyover (do not take the flyover). Drive straight towards Lalbaug market.

Are you planning to visit Lalbaugcha Raja this year? Or have you taken a darshan before? Share your experience below or Join the conversation on


Love,
The Dancebee

Exclusive | Countdown to Shri Saibaba Samadhi Centenary Year Celebrations

Priya Adivarekar
The countdown to this year's much awaited celebration has officially begun. 2017 - 2018 marks the centenary year of Shri Saibaba's Mahasamadhi, and needless to say, devotees are all set to witness a series of spectacular events and activities in Shirdi. Saibaba of Shirdi took Mahasamadhi on the auspicious occasion of Dussera (according to Hindu calendar) in the year 1918. With the year long Shatabdi Punyatithi Utsav set to kickstart on October 1, Shri Saibaba Santhan Trust (shirdi) has begun preparations for the various activities and events that have been planned throughout the year.


The festivities are expected to kickstart with a special ceremony on October 1, 2017. This would be right after the three day Punyatithi utsav, scheduled from September 28 to 30. The ceremony will be attended by special dignitaries, guests and various devotees from across the globe. The trust has planned a host of grand events, including performances, bhajans, parayan among others. The Sai International Marathon is also scheduled to take place on October 15 (which also coincides with Saibaba's Mahasamadhi date according to Gregorian calendar). This, apart from a host of different activities, that will go on till October 2018.

In an exclusive chat with our editor, Smt Rubal Agarwal, CEO - SSST (Shirdi), discussed some of the key activities planned by the trust. Watch the video to know more:


During an exclusive interaction with us in Mumbai, Smt Rubal Agarwal, CEO - SSST (Shirdi) stated that a Paduka Yatra will be organised, wherein Shri Saibaba's original padukas will be taken to various cities across the country. Around the same time, a pair of silver padukas will be taken on an international yatra, which will greatly benefit devotees across the globe. In addition, Shri Suresh Haware - Chairman - SSST (Shirdi) expressed his pleasure on welcoming national and international marathoners and various other participants during the Sai International Marathon. Mr Haware stated that the celebrations would be one of the biggest Sai movements in the world. The trust has also invited top artists from across the country to perform during the year long celebrations. These performances would be offered as part of 'Sai Seva' by the artists.

Well, needless to say, we can't wait to witness the grand celebrations. Stay tuned for more updates!

For more information, follow us and join the conversation on

Love,
The Dancebee

7 Must Read Books For Every Girl Boss

Priya Adivarekar
First of all, sorry for being MIA. I was traveling all of last week with little or no network (with the exception of hotel wi-fi, which was mainly used for regular social media updates). However, it's good to be back with many more new stories. And what better than talking about books, eh? Bibliophiles are often heard saying, "So many books, so little time." That's true, because the number of books that topped my list since the beginning of this year is nowhere close to the actual number I have finished reading (I am still trying, alright). There is so much to learn from every book out there. Titles from various genres can teach you anything, from understanding relationships to food and even nature.



However, off late, I am veering towards a lot of biographies and business books. The market is filled with way too many books by successful business personalities. Be it a tale of rag to riches or simply a basic understanding of their business model, it's tough to choose. Luckily, I came across some titles that were packed with the right blend of knowledge, relatable experiences, anecdotes and examples that helped me in my everyday hustle. I was hooked on, and now, I am hoping some of you bibliophiles out there, who have been looking for similar books, get addicted too.

Lean In: Women, Work and the Will to Lead


Sheryl Sandberg joined Facebook as the Chief Operating Officer in 2008. A Harvard Business School graduate, Sandberg has been ranked as one of the Top 50 most powerful women in business by Fortune magazine. Her book - Lean In, brilliantly discusses business, development, equality for women at work among others, with personal anecdotes and great details. The book serves as an excellent read for those who want to work hard and achieve their professional goals.

Price: Rs 419



Leave Your Mark: Land your dream job. Kill it in your career. Rock social media


From building a personal brand to starting out in an industry where you have no experience; if you are looking for insights or tips on any of these or more, look no further! Aliza Licht's Leave Your Mark is the perfect buy for anyone who needs a mentor (and some inspiration). Licht, a fashion industry veteran (remember the DKNY PR Girl?), also discusses career steps and insights from her own professional life in this interesting book.

Price: Rs 339

Girl Code


This book is your special code to empowerment, as it wonderfully encourages women to work together, and not against one another. It's a simple book, packed with powerful words of wisdom and advice. Author Cara Alwill Leyba discusses ideas that are backed by her own personal experiences. Girl Code also includes some wonderful experiences of several other successful women (in the form of interviews).

Price: Rs 374

Werk 101


The perfect 'werkbook' that not just discusses ambitions, but also focuses on the importance of good health, fitness and wealth management. While working hard and chasing dreams, we often neglect the basic necessities that keep us going. Through this book, Koereyelle also encourages women to work for what they want, by first working on themselves. This guide pushes you to get your life together and hustle! A must have, for sure.

Price: $25

She Walks, She Leads

There is no better idol in life than women of worth, who broke barriers and worked hard to be where they are today. Their stories of success serve as the perfect tool for motivation. In this book, author Gunjan Jain presents an inspiring account of 24 women achievers, documenting their struggles and rise to the top. From fighting patriarchal values to losing jobs and loan refusals due to one's gender; these are real stories, where women fought against all odds to make their dream a reality.

Price: Rs 414

Miss Jessie's: Creating a Successful Business from Scratch 


It takes a lot of guts to build a business from scratch, especially without any resources or contacts. It is certainly not for those who like being in a comfort zone and find solace in seeing a fixed amount of salary being transferred in their account every month (Ask me. I have been through this 'big shift'!) Miss Jessie's... is a brilliant blend of a memoir and business book, with apt advice and interesting anecdotes in every chapter. For anyone who aspires to be an entrepreneur, this one's for you.

Price: Rs 506

How to be a Bawse


Superwoman aka Lilly Singh's journey has inspired thousands of millennials across the globe. From humble beginnings on her own YouTube channel to becoming an internet sensation, doing a world tour, bagging a role in HBO's adaptation of Fahrenheit 451 and finally, writing a book; there is no stopping this girl. Singh talks about conquering life and taking charge for good. Like she says - "You are never too good to stop investing in yourself." Love how the book doesn't try to be super preachy. It serves motivation topped with humour, which Singh is well known for. It's an easy, inspiring read for anyone who needs a 'push' to get their act together ASAP.

Price: Rs 503


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A Timeless Tale Retold | Mughal-e-Azam Review

Priya Adivarekar

Recreating a timeless classic can be a daunting task, especially when the film in question is K.Asif's extraordinary tale of love, Mughal-e-Azam. However, director Feroz Abbas Khan took up this challenge and the result was a breathtakingly beautiful retelling of the film. Mughal-e-Azam The Play premiered late last year at the NCPA amidst sold out shows, applause and accolades. The makers were back with a second season earlier this month, and once again, their flawless work met with the same incredible response.


Dramatic dialogues, melodious songs, extravagant sets, magnificent costumes and beautiful choreography; this is a grand broadway musical that is bound to leave you speechless. The modern day stage adaption of Mughal-e-Azam takes you back in time and wonderfully recreates the popular love saga of Salim - Anarkali. Right from the excellent casting by Mukesh Chhabra to gorgeous costumes by ace designer Manish Malhotra and Mayuri Upadhya's captivating choreography,  each element has been carefully picked and woven together to create the perfect tribute to K.Asif's legendary film. No wonder, the second season too saw sold out shows and a standing ovation from the audience after every performance.

Chhabra gets together the perfect cast, who effortlessly perform their respective characters. They act, sing and dance their way into your hearts. A special mention of Priyanka Barve as Anarkali and Nissar Khan as Akbar, whose impeccable performances left us spellbound. Barve enthralled the audience with her sweet voice, while Khan's personality and strong dialogue delivery was perfect for the role. Other cast members, including Aashima Mahajan, Sunil Kumar Paliwal among others, also perform very well. The dialogues are powerful. For those who can't get the Urdu dialogues right, there are prominent LEDs on both sides of the auditorium that display English subtitles, which was a great idea. The overall production is extravagant and majestic. We like how even the most minute details have been taken care of. A special mention of the fabulous light effects and background score. Malhotra's stunning costumes will transport you back to the Mughal era. We particularly loved the famous 'Pyaar kiya toh darna kya' costume on Anarkali.

As the curtains came to a draw and the audience began to disperse, what stayed with us were the memories. One walks out of the auditorium with a big smile, especially after watching the mesmerising 'Pyaar kiya toh darna kya' or 'Aye Mohabbat Zindabad' on stage. We are delighted to have the musical era back, and we couldn't have asked for a better recreation of Mughal-e-Azam. While the second season came to a close today, we are looking forward to the third season already. Make sure you get your tickets, before they are gone. 

 Play: Mughal-e-Azam
Directed by: Feroz Abbas Khan
Cast: Nissar Khan, Priyanka Barva / Neha Sargam, Aashima Mahajan, Sunil Kumar Paliwal / Dhanveer Singh and others
Language: Urdu

 Verdict: Highly recommended! A must watch for it's flawless production and splendid performances.

Line Producers - Namrata Ahmed and Suparna Chakravarti of Rapid Waters
Conceptualization
Mughal-e-Azam was conceptualised by Feroz Abbas Khan. He approached us to line produce it for  NCPA and Shapoorji Pallonji in April last year. We were delighted and instantly accepted the offer. Honestly, this has been the best decision of 2016 for us. The creation process has been very challenging and rewarding at the same time.

Challenges
I think one of our biggest challenge was to do justice to the adaptation. We wanted to give our audience the same joy they felt while watching the film.

Round up of Season II
The popularity has only grown in season two, leaving people completely spellbound. We have had instances where women have come out teary eyed and feeling completely overwhelmed. It is extremely heart warming to see people react like this.

The Mughal-e-Azam effect
We would like to believe the play has definitely set the bar higher, especially when it comes to reviving cultural plays. I think its wonderful that a whole new market of entertainment is opening up.


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Priya Adivarekar

Priya Adivarekar - Founder and Creative Director at Diary of a Dancebee. She is also a renowned Voice Actress and award winning artiste, with serious passion for dance. When not working round the clock, she can be seen reading, enjoying a movie-binge or listening to music.
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