The 10th annual Emirates Tamil Theatre Festival, titled ‘Ameeraga Kurunadaga Vizha,’ took place on November 2, 2025, in Dubai, showcasing the power of storytelling through 12-minute Tamil plays. Inspired by the globally renowned Short+Sweet Theatre Sydney, the festival brought together non-professional talents from across the UAE to present poignant narratives that reflect real-life social issues. Among the standout performances was the prize-winning play ‘Magallir Kaaval Nilayam’ (Women’s Police Station), which tackled the sensitive topic of child abuse and emotional neglect, leaving the audience in deep contemplation. The festival, founded by banker Anand Subramanian and event organiser Lion Rama Malar, has grown into a significant cultural event, celebrating themes ranging from domestic struggles to technological challenges. Despite its non-commercial nature and funding challenges, the festival thrives on the passion and dedication of its participants, including working professionals and students. The 2025 edition saw siblings Mukundhan, 12, and Mirudhala, 10, win the second prize for best script with their humorous portrayal of adult world anomalies in ‘Kannadi Kuzhandhaigal’ (Mirror Children). The event’s authenticity stems from its real-life-inspired narratives, performed by individuals who have experienced or closely observed the issues depicted. The festival’s success lies in its ability to personify life’s complexities on stage, offering a platform for artistic expression and community engagement in a world often dominated by commercial interests.
分类： entertainment
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Bend It Like Beckham director has a sequel – and a spin on a Christmas classic
Renowned filmmaker Gurinder Chadha, celebrated for her 2002 hit ‘Bend It Like Beckham,’ has ventured into the festive genre with her latest creation, ‘Christmas Karma.’ This musical film, which premieres on November 14, offers a Bollywood-inspired adaptation of Charles Dickens’ timeless tale, ‘A Christmas Carol.’ Featuring a star-studded cast including Kunal Nayyar, Hugh Bonneville, Pixie Lott, Boy George, Danny Dyer, Charithra Chandran, and Eva Longoria, the film blends British and Indian cultural elements to deliver a heartwarming holiday narrative. Chadha, who also penned the script, aims to capture the essence of joy and celebration inherent in Bollywood cinema, making it a fitting tribute to the festive season. The story follows Mr. Sood, a modern-day Scrooge portrayed by Nayyar, who embarks on a transformative journey guided by three spirits. The film not only revisits Dickens’ themes of redemption and empathy but also delves into contemporary issues such as migration and racial dynamics in modern Britain. Chadha’s inspiration for the character of Mr. Sood stems from her own family experiences and observations of political rhetoric during the pandemic. The film also features a Bhangra Christmas song and a tribute to George Michael, performed by Bollywood icon Priyanka Chopra Jonas. With its blend of humor, emotion, and cultural richness, ‘Christmas Karma’ promises to be a festive treat for audiences worldwide.
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How an Indian comic book legacy was lost in a fire
For generations of Indians, Amar Chitra Katha has been a cherished portal into the realms of religion, mythology, and history through its iconic comic books. Launched in 1967 by Anant Pai, the series, whose name translates to ‘immortal illustrated stories,’ has captivated readers with its engaging visuals and accessible language. However, a tragic fire on October 1 at its Bhiwandi warehouse near Mumbai has left a significant portion of this legacy in ashes. The blaze, reportedly caused by a short circuit, took four days to control and destroyed nearly 600,000 books, including special editions, merchandise, and over 200 original hand-drawn illustrations from the 1960s and 1970s. Archival materials, such as original positives on transparent film, were also lost. While most published titles have been digitized and remain accessible through apps, the irreplaceable original artworks are gone forever. The emotional toll on comic book enthusiasts is profound, as Amar Chitra Katha has long been a cornerstone of Indian cultural education. The 1970 issue on the Hindu deity Krishna, illustrated by Ram Waeerkar, marked a turning point for the series, paving the way for stories on Indian mythological and historical figures. Despite the loss, the publication remains resilient, with plans to innovate digitally and rebuild its legacy. Yet, for art lovers, the absence of these originals is a heartbreaking reminder of what has been lost.
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Make November one to remember with Big Ticket’s race and luxury yacht experience
As November unfolds, Big Ticket is set to make this month unforgettable with its exclusive Race and Luxury Yacht Experience. This unique promotion offers 30 lucky winners and their guests an all-expenses-paid weekend in Abu Dhabi, featuring a stay at a 5-star hotel, access to the Yas Marina race weekend, and a luxury yacht experience. The winners, selected through an E-draw for tickets purchased between November 1 and 21, will also receive Dh10,000 in cash. Additionally, during the yacht event, participants have the chance to win a special Dh250,000 cash prize. The winners’ names will be announced on December 1, and they will also be entered into the December 3 live draw for the Dh25 million grand prize. For those purchasing tickets between November 1 and 30, the excitement continues with the chance to win Dh100,000 each in consolation prizes. Big Ticket’s Dream Car Series also returns, offering a Maserati Grecale in December and a BMW 430i in January. Special ticket bundle promotions, including buy 2 and get 2 free offers, add even more opportunities to win. Whether it’s the thrill of the race, the luxury of a yacht, or the dream of winning millions, Big Ticket ensures November is a month to remember. Tickets are available online at www.bigticket.ae or at counters in Zayed International Airport and Al Ain Airport.
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Rare replica of 1,000-year-old Quran calligraphy unveiled at Sharjah book fair
A meticulously crafted replica of a 1,000-year-old Quran manuscript, originally penned by the renowned calligrapher Ibn al-Bawwab, has been unveiled at the 44th Sharjah International Book Fair (SIBF). The facsimile, displayed at the Safir Ardehal kiosk from Tehran, offers visitors a glimpse into the exquisite artistry of early Arabic calligraphy. The original manuscript, dating back to 391 AH (around 1000 CE), is housed at the Chester Beatty Library in Dublin, Ireland. Ibn al-Bawwab, celebrated for transforming Arabic writing into an art form, perfected the naskh script, characterized by its fluidity and balance. Each page of the Quran features 16 lines of text, with meticulously spaced letters and harmonious strokes. The calligrapher’s mastery extended beyond writing; he also designed the gold decorations and floral borders, showcasing his perfectionism. The replica, crafted using traditional materials like natural ink and vellum paper, highlights the enduring legacy of Islamic art. Hamed Deshdashti of Safir Ardehal emphasized the manuscript’s historical significance, noting its role in inspiring modern Arabic calligraphy. The exhibition not only celebrates Ibn al-Bawwab’s craftsmanship but also underscores the cultural richness of Islamic civilization.
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Violinist recounts journey to bring China’s artistry to world stage
Renowned violinist Siqing Lu is set to grace the stage at Carnegie Hall in New York City on November 23, performing alongside acclaimed pianist Li Jian and principal cellist of the Philadelphia Orchestra, Hai-Ye Ni. Lu, whose virtuosity has captivated audiences worldwide, aims to transcend cultural boundaries through his music, fostering unity and understanding. In an exclusive interview with China Daily, Lu shared his philosophy on music, emphasizing its power to communicate emotions and connect people on a profound level. Born in Qingdao, China, Lu began his musical journey at the age of four, eventually becoming the youngest student at the Central Conservatory of Music in Beijing. His international education, including studies at the Yehudi Menuhin School in the UK and The Juilliard School in New York, shaped him into a well-rounded artist. Lu’s groundbreaking achievements include being the first Asian violinist to win the gold medal at the Paganini International Violin Competition in 1987. With over two dozen albums to his name, Lu’s renditions of the Butterfly Lovers Violin Concerto have garnered global acclaim. Beyond his performances, Lu is dedicated to nurturing the next generation of musicians, founding the Siqing Lu Shenzhen Futian International Strings Festival in 2016. He views his role as a cultural ambassador as both an honor and a responsibility, striving to showcase Chinese artistry on the world stage. Lu’s upcoming performance at Carnegie Hall is a testament to his enduring commitment to bridging cultures through the universal language of music.
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Disney, YouTube TV remain in talks to restore ABC and ESPN
Disney and YouTube TV are still engaged in discussions to reinstate ABC and ESPN on the platform after the networks were removed due to a failed licensing agreement. The negotiations, which began earlier this year, have been marked by disputes over terms and concessions. Disney has proposed a deal that would cost less than the previous agreement, potentially allowing YouTube TV to pass savings on to its customers. However, YouTube TV has been reluctant to accept terms it deems below market value. The removal of Disney’s networks, including ABC and ESPN, has left millions of YouTube TV subscribers without access to key programming, particularly during significant events like Election Day coverage. Both companies have issued separate statements acknowledging the ongoing talks but have yet to reach a resolution. The outcome of these negotiations could have significant implications for the future of pay-TV services and content distribution.
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Ukrainians would like to watch comedies – but for now their culture is defined by war
In the heart of Kyiv, the arts are making a powerful comeback, deeply intertwined with the ongoing war. The Kyiv Opera’s latest production, ‘Patriots,’ is a rock opera that resonates with the spirit of Ukrainian independence, featuring popular anthems that stir the soul. Meanwhile, the documentary ‘2000 Metres to Andriivka’ by Mstyslav Chernov offers a raw, unfiltered look at the frontlines, immersing viewers in the harrowing experiences of soldiers. This film, selected as Ukraine’s entry for the Best International Feature Film at the 98th Academy Awards, has left audiences in stunned silence, a testament to its gripping intensity.
Since Russia’s full-scale invasion in 2022, Ukraine’s cultural landscape has been irrevocably altered. Venues were repurposed or destroyed, and artists became refugees or soldiers. Yet, nearly four years later, the arts have re-emerged, permeated by the war’s influence. The city’s walls are adorned with posters promoting fundraisers for the frontline and war-themed films, plays, and exhibitions. The Ukrainian House, once the Lenin Museum, now hosts a retrospective by documentary photographer Oleksandr Glyadelov, capturing Ukraine’s 35-year struggle for independence.
The impact of these artistic expressions is profound. While some Ukrainians shy away from the relentless reminders of war, others are drawn to them, finding solace and solidarity in shared experiences. The rock opera ‘Patriots’ and the documentary ‘Kuba and Alyaska’ are just two examples of how the arts are addressing the war’s realities. These works serve as both a tribute to those who have sacrificed and a call to action for continued support.
Director Petro Kachanov, who refused to give ‘Patriots’ a happy ending, emphasizes the importance of honesty in art. ‘This play is a tribute to those who died in this war,’ he stated. ‘We cannot think about our own comfort when the best sons of Ukraine are dying.’ This ethos drives the current surge in documentaries, which aim to reveal the truth and honor the sacrifices made. As one filmgoer, Natalia, remarked, ‘Of course I don’t want to watch these movies, but I have to, like everyone else. Because it’s our history and it’s our present day.’
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Fragrance World unveils Street Origins, a new collection redefining modern perfumery
Fragrance World has unveiled its latest innovation, ‘Street Origins,’ a groundbreaking fragrance collection that redefines modern perfumery. Inspired by the vibrancy of urban culture and the essence of individuality, the collection blends artistry, authenticity, and innovation to create a new standard in contemporary fragrance design. Developed under the leadership of Safeer Moidu, Joint CEO of Fragrance World, Street Origins introduces a range of long-lasting, gender-neutral scents that emphasize originality, performance, and accessibility. The collection aims to challenge a market often saturated with imitations, offering a fresh perspective on authenticity. Street Origins draws inspiration from the dynamic energy of global cities, translating the rhythm of urban life into bold colors, graphic artwork, and collectible bottle designs. The collection is divided into two tiers: the ‘Origins Range,’ featuring 26 everyday scents inspired by city moods, and the ‘Icon Range,’ comprising 14 limited-edition releases with statement finishes and exclusive sleeves. Safeer Moidu describes the collection as a ‘creative rebellion,’ a return to originality in an industry that has grown complacent with imitation. Beyond its olfactory appeal, Street Origins serves as a creative platform, fostering collaborations across art, music, and design. Through its innovation arm, French Avenue, Fragrance World has partnered with renowned international perfumers, including Jordi Fernández, Shinichiro Oba, Pascal Gaurin, and Jean-Christophe Hérault. The launch of Street Origins further solidifies Fragrance World’s influence in shaping the narrative of Middle Eastern perfumery, characterized by artistry, experimentation, and storytelling. The collection is now available for purchase at www.shopfragranceworld.com.
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Beauty queens walkout, host weeps: What went down at Miss Universe 2025
The Miss Universe 2025 pageant in Thailand, one of the world’s most prestigious beauty competitions, has been overshadowed by a series of dramatic events, including a walkout by contestants, allegations of disrespect, and a tearful apology from the host. Over 120 contestants from around the globe gathered to compete, but the event quickly descended into chaos. The controversy began when Mexican delegate Fatima Bosch walked out of a meeting after being insulted by host Nawat Itsaragrisil, who allegedly called her a ‘dumbhead’ during a dispute over social media promotions. Bosch, supported by Miss Iraq, left the venue in protest, declaring, ‘The world needs to see this because we are empowered women and this is a platform for our voice.’ Her actions drew praise from Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum, who commended Bosch for speaking out against aggression. Nawat, meanwhile, faced public condemnation from the Miss Universe Organisation, which accused him of violating the values of respect and dignity. In a tearful press conference, Nawat apologized, claiming he had been ‘betrayed’ and overwhelmed by pressure. This incident is not the first time Nawat, also the president of Miss Grand International, has been embroiled in controversy. Last year, MGI contestants were outraged after being served peanuts on plastic chairs instead of a luxury river cruise. Adding to the drama, Thai media reported that police investigated contestants for allegedly promoting an online casino, violating the country’s gambling laws. Despite the turmoil, the pageant final is scheduled for November 21 in Nonthaburi province.