This year, the 57th Shankar Shad Mushaira carries an added sense of anticipation. A “sea of Urdu poetry lovers” is expected to attend, drawn by a line-up that includes names like Javed Akhtar, Waseem Barelvi, Sheen Kaaf Nizam, Iqbal Ashhar and Shakeel Azmi—poets whose words have shaped contemporary Urdu expression. Their presence ensures that the evening will move fluidly between the classic and the contemporary, between nostalgia and sharp observation.

What makes the 57th Shankar Shad Mushaira endure, however, is not just its line-up but its legacy. First held in 1954, the mushaira has remained a constant in Delhi’s cultural life, organised in memory of Shankar Lal and Lala Murli Dhar, patrons of Urdu poetry whose vision continues to shape the event today. Over decades, it has evolved into a platform that reflects a truly pan-India poetic voice, with participants travelling from cities across the country to be part of the evening.

And yet, despite its scale and stature, the 57th Shankar Shad Mushaira retains the intimacy that defines a true mushaira. The format remains unchanged: poets recite, the audience responds, and somewhere in that exchange, poetry becomes a shared experience. A well-crafted sher does not simply end—it lingers, repeated on request, carried forward by the collective voice of the room.

In many ways, the 57th Shankar Shad Mushaira is a reminder of something increasingly rare: the joy of listening. Not scrolling, not skimming—but sitting with words as they unfold. And in that space, between a poet’s pause and an audience’s “wah wah,” Delhi rediscovers one of its most enduring cultural rhythms.

56th Shankar Shad Mushaira

The previous edition of the Shankar Shad Mushaira unfolded much like the tradition promises—unhurried, immersive, and deeply engaging. The hall was filled with an audience that knew exactly what it had come for: an evening of poetry that could move between humour, heartbreak, and sharp social observation without missing a beat. Established poets held the room with their command, while newer voices brought a refreshing immediacy, making the line-up feel both rooted and current.

What stayed with many from the event 56th Shankar Shad Mushaira was the energy in the room. Listeners didn’t just sit through the recitations—they leaned in, reacted, and often anticipated the punch of a sher before it fully landed. Familiar calls of “wah wah” rose organically, sometimes stopping a poet mid-flow as the audience asked for a couplet to be repeated. It was this easy, unspoken exchange between stage and seats that turned the evening into something more than a programme—it felt shared, almost collaborative.

You can watch the event live on their YouTube Channel here

The post Shankar Shad Mushaira: A timeless evening of Urdu poetry in Delhi appeared first on Delhi Messenger.

Read This: Langas and Manganiars of Rajasthan – It’s their story

Emotional Journey Through Sound

“Yaara” takes listeners on an emotional ride, combining Nishant’s heartfelt lyrics with a pulsating beat crafted by producer Neosky. This unique fusion evokes feelings of longing while energizing the audience. Nishant reflects, “Heartbreak is universal. For me, ‘Yaara’ is not just a song; it encapsulates my emotions and experiences.”

A Rising Star in Music

From Jaipur, Rajasthan, Nishant has made a name for himself in the industry, focusing on romantic and melancholic themes. His collaboration with Hoopr marks an exciting chapter, allowing him to explore new sounds without losing his emotional essence.

Exciting Collaborations Ahead

Producer Neosky adds a distinctive touch to “Yaara,” pushing the boundaries of sad romantic music. Nishant is also working on two upcoming projects with Hoopr: a lively Diwali song and a heartfelt wedding track, showcasing his versatility.

Industry Praise

Gaurav Dagaonkar, Co-founder and CEO of Hoopr, stated, “We’re thrilled to introduce ‘Yaara.’ Nishant has crafted a track that is both emotionally impactful and musically inventive.” Bhumika Shukla, GM-Music at Hoopr, added, “With ‘Yaara,’ Nishant and Neosky have created something exceptional—a modern twist on heartbreak.”

Stream Now

“Yaara” is available for streaming on Hoopr and YouTube, offering a fresh perspective on love and heartbreak for listeners everywhere.

The post Yaara: A Fresh Take on Heartbreak by Nishant Kamal Vyas appeared first on Delhi Messenger.

Renowned for its lightweight and luxurious texture, Chanderi silk has long been a symbol of grace and tradition. iTokri’s handloom Chanderi silk sarees, intricately woven by skilled artisans using age-old techniques, pay homage to this rich legacy. Each saree is a work of art, showcasing the vibrant colors and delicate motifs that have made Chanderi silk a timeless choice for festive wear.

Read This: These 5 looks of Aditi Rao Hydari Gave Us a Heart Quake!

A Collection That Celebrates Tradition and Individuality

The new collection features a wide array of designs, offering something for every taste. From traditional motifs that reflect the deep cultural heritage of India to modern interpretations with a contemporary twist, iTokri’s collection ensures that every woman can find a saree that resonates with her unique style. Whether it’s the understated elegance of a classic design or the bold vibrancy of a contemporary piece, these sarees promise to make a statement during the festive season.

Speaking about the collection, Nitin Pamnani, Co-Founder of iTokri, said, “Durga Puja is not just a festival; it’s a vibrant celebration of culture, strength, and unity. Our new collection of handloom Chanderi silk sarees is designed to reflect the rich tapestry of Indian heritage while empowering women to express their individuality.”

The intricate craftsmanship of each saree is evident in the meticulous weaving and the use of traditional motifs that tell a story through every thread. These sarees are not just garments; they are expressions of the artisans’ dedication to preserving the age-old craft of Chanderi weaving, a tradition that continues to thrive in the hands of skilled craftsmen.

Supporting Artisans and Celebrating Craftsmanship

At the heart of iTokri’s mission is the commitment to supporting local artisans. By offering these handcrafted sarees, the platform helps preserve traditional techniques and provides a sustainable livelihood for weavers. “At iTokri, we believe in supporting local artisans and celebrating their craftsmanship, ensuring that each saree tells a story that resonates with the spirit of the season. As we embrace the joy of Durga Puja, we invite everyone to explore our collection and experience the beauty of tradition woven into every thread,” added Pamnani.

Durga Puja, known for its grandeur and cultural significance, is the perfect occasion to don a saree that embodies both tradition and modernity. iTokri’s handloom Chanderi silk sarees, with their vibrant hues and intricate detailing, reflect the energy and spirit of the festival, making them ideal for the celebrations.

Complete the Festive Look with Accessories

To complement its stunning sarees, iTokri has also introduced a selection of matching accessories, including blouses and jewellery, making it easy for customers to complete their festive look with minimal effort. The curated selection of accessories is designed to enhance the beauty of the sarees, offering a seamless way to create a polished, festive ensemble.

Available Now: Shop the Collection

iTokri’s exclusive handloom Chanderi silk saree collection is now available for purchase on their website. With Durga Puja around the corner, this collection offers the perfect opportunity to celebrate in style, embracing the spirit of the festival with a saree that reflects the beauty of tradition and the joy of craftsmanship.

This festive season, explore iTokri’s handloom Chanderi silk sarees and accessories to make your Durga Puja truly unforgettable.

The post iTokri Launches Exclusive Handloom Chanderi Silk Saree Collection for Durga Puja appeared first on Delhi Messenger.

The 2024 edition of the Crossword Book Awards, a literary event that brings together authors, publishers, readers, and the literary community, is poised to leave a significant impact. The award, known for blending both critical recognition and popular appeal, aims to celebrate Indian authors writing in English, offering a platform for both established and emerging voices.

Read This: Delhi by Khushwant Singh: A journey through the city’s grandeur, brutality, and resilience

Reopening the Stage for Indian Literature

This year, submissions for the Crossword Book Awards opened on March 18, inviting entries from books published in English between March 1, 2023, and March 1, 2024. With hundreds of books submitted across the categories, the competition is fiercer than ever, reflecting the richness and diversity of contemporary Indian writing. The prize for the Jury Award winners, in each category, is Rs 50,000, with a cash prize of Rs 25,000 for translators (in the Translations category) and illustrators (in the Children’s category).

The return of the Crossword Book Awards is being welcomed by the literary community, with Aakash Gupta, CEO of Crossword Bookstores, remarking, “As we bring back the Crossword Book Awards, we aim to celebrate the rich tapestry of Indian literature and honor the voices that shape our literary landscape. This event is not just about recognizing excellence; it’s also about inspiring future generations to explore the power of storytelling and the joy of reading.”

2024 Longlists Announced

The longlists of the Crossword Book Awards, revealed earlier this year, represent a wide spectrum of voices and themes, from groundbreaking works of fiction to thought-provoking non-fiction, captivating children’s books, insightful translations, and cutting-edge business literature. Each category is judged by a distinguished three-member panel comprising some of the most acclaimed names in Indian literature and journalism.

Fiction (Longlist)

• History’s Angel by Anjum Hasan
• Never, Never Land by Namita Gokhale
• The Memoirs of Valmiki Rao by Lindsay Pereira
• The East Indian by Brinda Charry
• The Gallery by Manju Kapur
• Quarterlife by Devika Rege
• Can’t by Shinie Antony
• Chronicle of an Hour and a Half by Saharu Nusaiba Kannanari
• Tall Tales By a Small Dog by Omair Ahmad
• Shakchunni by Arnab Ray

Non-fiction (Longlist)

• From Phansi Yard by Sudha Bhardwaj
• The Day I Became a Runner by Sohini Chattopadhyay
• City on Fire by Zeyad Masroor Khan
• Swadeshi Steam by A. R. Venkatachalapathy
• A Part Apart by Ashok Gopal
• Mother Cow Mother India by Yamini Narayanan
• Anger Management by Ajay Bisaria
• Being Hindu Being Indian by Vanya Vaidehi Bhargav
• Marginlands by Arati Kumar-Rao
• Fire on the Ganges by Radhika Iyengar

Translations (Longlist)

• Beneath the Simolu Tree by Sarmishtha Pritam, tr. from Assamese by Ranjita Biswas
• Boy, Unloved by Damodar Mauzo, tr. from Konkani by Jerry Pinto
• I Named My Sister Silence by Manoj Rupda, tr. from Hindi by Hansda Sowvendra Shekhar
• Dudiya – In Your Burning Land by Vishwas Patil, tr. from Marathi by Nadeem Khan
• Mithun Number Two by Jayant Kaikini, tr. from Kannada by Tejaswini Niranjana
• Fire Bird by Perumal Murugan, tr. from Tamil by Janani Kannan
• Sakina’s Kiss by Vivek Shanbhag, tr. from Kannada by Srinath Perur
• A Woman Burnt by Imayam, tr. from Tamil by GJV Prasad
• Maria Just Maria by Sandhya Mary, tr. from Malayalam by Jayasree Kalathil
• Fruits of the Barren Tree by Lekhnath Chhetri, tr. from Nepali by Anurag Basnet

Children’s (Longlist)

• Zen by Shabnam Minwalla
• The Henna Start-Up by Andaleeb Wajid
• Bipathu and a Very Big Dream by Anita Nair
• The Case of the Vanishing Gods by Mallika Ravikumar
• A Children’s History of India in 100 Objects by Devika Cariapa
• Mommies by Richa Jha and Priya Sebastian
• From Makaras to Manticores by C.G. Salamander and Sheena Deviah
• Are There Bun Shops in the Jungles of India? by Nandini Nayar
• The Dog with Two Names: Stories that Celebrate Diversity by Nandita Da Cunha
• The Misadventures of a Diamond Thief by Lubaina Bandukwala

Business and Management (Longlist)

• Accelerating India’s Development: A State-led Roadmap For Effective Governance by Karthik Muralidharan
• Al Rising: India’s Artificial Intelligence Growth Story by Leslie D’Monte and Jayanth N. Kolla
• Exprovement: Exponential Improvements Through Converging Parallels by Hersh Haladker and Raghunath Anant Mashelkar
• Farmer Sutra by Kalpana Manivannan
• Inside the Boardroom: How Behaviour Trumps Rationality by R. Gopalakrishnan and Tulsi Jayakumar
• Lilliput Land: How Small Is Driving India’s Mega Consumption Story by Rama Bijapurkar
• Mastering the Data Paradox by Nitin Seth
• The Eight Per Cent Solution: A Strategy for India’s Growth by Nikhil Gupta
• Unfiltered: The CEO and the Coach by Ana Lueneburger and Saurabh Mukherjea
• When the Chips Are Down by Pranay Kotasthane and Abhiram Manchi

What’s Next for the Crossword Book Awards?

The final shortlist of nominees will be announced on November 11, and voting for the Popular Choice Awards will soon open to readers. The winners will be celebrated during a grand awards ceremony in Mumbai on December 12, where India’s literary giants, creative minds, and influential industry leaders will gather to honour the best of Indian writing.

In addition to the Jury Awards, where a distinguished panel of judges selects the best works, the Popular Choice Awards allow readers across the country to have their say in choosing their favourite books. This unique format ensures that the voices of the audience and the literary elite converge, making the Crossword Book Awards truly reflective of the best of Indian literature.

The return of the Crossword Book Awards mark a pivotal moment for the Indian literary scene, with 2024 shaping up to be an exciting year for readers and writers alike.

The post Return Of Crossword Book Awards 2024 – See Longlist appeared first on Delhi Messenger.

No lockdown during the G20 Summit

Despite speculations, Delhi Police has clarified that there will be no lockdown in Delhi during the G20 summit. Essential services like grocery and medical stores, and vegetable, fruit, and milk shops will remain open. However, there will be restrictions on movement in certain parts of the city. Some metro station gates will be closed temporarily from September 8-10. You can stay updated on the traffic situation through Delhi Police’s virtual help desk.

Roads to avoid during the G20 Summit

Delhi Police has advised commuters to avoid areas falling within the following Regulated and Controlled Zones:

• New Delhi district will be considered “Controlled Zone-I” from 5 am on September 8 to 11:59 pm on September 10. Only authorized vehicles, emergency vehicles, and bonafide residents will be allowed to travel.
• The area inside Ring Road (Mahatma Gandhi Marg) will be a “Regulated Zone” during the same period. Access will be limited to authorized vehicles, bonafide residents, emergency vehicles, and those traveling to the airport or railway stations.
• Certain roads and junctions will be “Controlled Zone-II” from midnight to 2 pm on September 10. This includes Vikas Marg, Bahadur Shah Zafar Marg, Delhi Gate, Jawaharlal Nehru Marg, and Mahatma Gandhi Marg, among others.

Traveling to Delhi airport during the G20 Summit

Expect longer travel times to the airport from September 8-10. Delhi Police recommends using the Delhi Metro Airport Express Line (Orange Line) connecting New Delhi Station to Dwarka Sector 21 Station via IGI Airport T3. For road travel to the airport, recommended routes are provided for various areas.

Closures in Delhi from September 8-10

During the G20 Summit, the following will be closed:

• Government departments, offices, organizations, and educational institutions
• Private offices and educational institutions
• Commercial banks, financial institutions, shops, and businesses within New Delhi Police District
• Three-seater auto-rickshaws and taxis will not be allowed in New Delhi District from 5 am on September 9 to 11:59 pm on September 10, except for bonafide residents and tourists with hotel bookings in the district.
• Cloud kitchens, food deliveries, and commercial deliveries like Amazon will not be allowed from September 8-10.

Metro stations operational

The earlier request to close the entry and exit gates of 39 metro stations during the G20 Summit has been withdrawn. Metro services will operate as usual at all stations, except the Supreme Court station, where operations may be affected. Tourist Smart Cards for unlimited metro rides can be purchased at dedicated counters in select metro stations from September 4-13.

Outstation trains and flights

Approximately 300 trains will be impacted by the G20 Summit, with cancellations, terminations, route changes, and diversions. Check your train status and routes if you plan to travel during this period. Flight operations at Delhi International Airport may see cancellations and delays, so allow extra time for security and check-in procedures.

Hotels hosting delegates

Delegates attending the G20 Summit will stay at hotels like Taj Palace New Delhi, ITC Maurya, The Imperial New Delhi, and Shangri-La Eros New Delhi. Limited availability is expected at these hotels, and city center hotels are likely to be fully booked due to spill-over bookings for media teams and support functions.

Plan your travel and stay accordingly to navigate Delhi during the G20 Summit smoothly.

The post Delhi gears up for G20 Summit: All you need to know about travel, restrictions, and more appeared first on Delhi Messenger.

The inauguration ceremony and mascot unveiling

During the opening ceremony, Prime Minister Modi will unveil the expo’s mascot, an image of the prehistoric dancing girl found in Mohenjo-Daro. The mascot will be stylised in the form of Channapatna toys. Additionally, several items will be inaugurated, including a graphic novel on museums, a directory of Indian museums, a pocket map of Kartavya Path, and a deck of 75 cards showcasing various museums across India.

Virtual walkthrough of the upcoming National Museum

As part of the inauguration, Prime Minister Modi will also launch a virtual walkthrough offering a glimpse into the upcoming National Museum located at North Block and South Block. The museum, named Yuge Yugeen Bharat National Museum, will exhibit India’s rich civilisational culture spanning over 5,000 years.

Exhibitions and cultural activities

The International Museum Expo will host three exhibitions. The first exhibition will feature 75 “star objects,” artifacts drawn from renowned collections of over 25 museums and institutions across India. The second exhibition will showcase covers of books and publications, including those from the pre-Independence era. The third exhibition will present the Ragamala Series.

Launch of ‘Indian Museum Tycoon’ video game

On the day of the inauguration, a 12-level app-based video game called ‘Indian Museum Tycoon’ will be launched. The game will be available on both Android and iOS platforms, offering an interactive and educational experience.

Participation and collaboration

The International Museum Expo is expected to witness significant participation, with approximately 1,200 museums from across India joining various segments of the event. Participating countries include the UK, the US, France, and Russia. Culture and tourism ministers from different regions of India will also be present.

‘Museum on Wheels’ and cultural spaces

As part of the event, the Ministry of Culture, in collaboration with the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya in Mumbai, has created a ‘museum on wheels.’ This mobile museum will tour the National Capital Region, making museums more accessible to the public. Additionally, memorandums of understanding (MoUs) will be signed with nodal departments in New Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Varanasi, and Ahmedabad, marking the establishment of five cultural spaces.

Also Read: Five best museums to visit in Delhi

The International Museum Expo aims to celebrate India’s cultural heritage and commemorate International Museum Day. With a wide range of activities, exhibitions, and collaborations, the event will showcase the diversity and richness of India’s museums. Visitors can look forward to an immersive experience that promotes cultural appreciation and understanding.

The post International Museum Expo 2023 in Delhi: All you need to know appeared first on Delhi Messenger.

The ancient marvel

Dating back several centuries, Agrasen ki Baoli is a unique architectural marvel that showcases the architectural prowess of ancient India. This stepwell consists of intricately carved steps leading down to a water reservoir, reflecting the ingenious engineering skills of its creators. Despite the passage of time, the Baoli’s structure remains intact, standing as a remarkable testament to its enduring legacy.

Historical significance

Agrasen ki Baoli holds immense historical significance, believed to have been constructed during the Mahabharata era. Although its exact origins are shrouded in mystery, historical evidence suggests that it was rebuilt by the legendary king Agrasen, of the Agrawal community, in the 14th century. It served as a vital source of water and a meeting place for the locals, offering respite from the scorching Delhi heat.

Architectural marvel

Baoli’s architectural design is a testament to the brilliance of ancient Indian architecture. The symmetrical arrangement of steps, adorned with delicate carvings, showcases the intricate craftsmanship of the artisans of that era. Its underground chambers and arched alcoves add an air of mystery, inviting visitors to explore its depths and unravel its secrets.

Urban legends and folklore

Agrasen ki Baoli is steeped in captivating urban legends and folklore, which add to its mystique. Legend has it that the Baoli was once inhabited by malevolent spirits, echoing with eerie whispers and ghostly apparitions. The enchanting ambience of the Baoli has inspired numerous tales of haunted encounters, making it a magnet for thrill-seekers and avid ghost hunters.

Relevance in modern times

Beyond its historical and architectural significance, Agrasen ki Baoli continues to hold relevance in the contemporary era. Today, it serves as a serene oasis amidst the chaotic urban landscape, attracting visitors seeking solace and tranquility. Its mesmerizing ambiance has also made it a popular shooting location for movies, blending the old-world charm with the glitz of the silver screen.

Also Read: Did you know Delhi is called the ‘City of Djinns’?

Conservation efforts

Preserving this historical treasure has been a priority for the authorities and conservationists. Efforts have been made to restore and maintain the Baoli, ensuring its longevity for future generations. The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) has taken steps to safeguard its architectural integrity and prevent encroachments, allowing visitors to experience its grandeur firsthand.

Overall, Agrasen ki Baoli stands as a living testament to Delhi’s rich historical past, with its timeless architecture and intriguing urban legends. This hidden gem offers a glimpse into the engineering brilliance and cultural heritage of ancient India. As visitors descend its steps, they embark on a journey that transcends time, immersing themselves in the mystique and allure of this extraordinary architectural marvel. Agrasen ki Baoli is not merely a historical landmark; it is a window into Delhi’s glorious past and a reminder of its enduring legacy.

The post Agrasen ki Baoli: Unravelling the mystique of Delhi’s ancient stepwell appeared first on Delhi Messenger.

The name Majnu Ka Tilla is derived from a Sufi saint named Majnu who used to meditate in the area, and ‘Tilla’ which means hill in Hindi. The neighborhood is located on a hill overlooking the Yamuna River, and its winding streets and alleys give it a unique character.

As soon as you step into the area, you are transported to a different world. The narrow alleys are lined with colorful prayer flags, and the sound of Buddhist chants can be heard in the air. The streets are bustling with activity, and the shops and markets are filled with Tibetan handicrafts, jewelry, and clothing.

Bustling markets of Majnu Ka Tilla

One of the most famous markets in Majnu Ka Tilla is the Tibetan Colony Market. Here, you can find everything from traditional Tibetan carpets and handicrafts to contemporary clothing and accessories. The market is a popular destination for both locals and tourists, and the vendors are always ready to strike up a conversation and share stories about their wares.

Apart from the markets, the area is also known for its food. The neighborhood is home to some of the best Tibetan restaurants and cafes in the city. The restaurants serve authentic Tibetan cuisine, including momos, thukpa, and butter tea. The cafes, on the other hand, serve a range of teas, coffees, and snacks, making them the perfect spot to relax after a busy day of shopping.

One of my favorite cafes in Majnu Ka Tilla is Dolma House. The cafe has a cozy, homely feel to it, and the staff is always welcoming. The menu features a range of teas, from classic chai to exotic herbal blends. The food is delicious too, with a wide range of momos, thukpa, and other Tibetan delicacies on offer.

Also Read – Fatehpur Sikri: A unique blend of Islamic and Hindu culture

A blend of cultures

But what truly sets Majnu Ka Tilla apart is its culture. The neighborhood has a unique mix of Tibetan and Indian cultures, and this is reflected in everything from the architecture to the music. The area is also home to several Buddhist monasteries and temples, which are open to visitors and offer a glimpse into the spiritual side of Tibetan culture.

Majnu Ka Tilla is also home to several annual festivals, such as Losar (Tibetan New Year) and the Tibetan food festival. During these festivals, the streets come alive with music, dance, and food, and visitors can experience the vibrancy of Tibetan culture firsthand.

In recent years, it has become a popular destination for backpackers and travelers looking for an authentic cultural experience. The neighborhood has several budget guesthouses and hostels, which offer a comfortable and affordable stay for those looking to explore the area.

Overall, Majnu Ka Tilla is a hidden gem in Delhi that offers a unique blend of Tibetan and Indian cultures. Its vibrant markets, delicious food, and rich culture make it a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience something different. So, next time you’re in Delhi, be sure to make a stop at Majnu Ka Tilla and immerse yourself in the magic of this charming neighborhood.

The post Majnu Ka Tilla: A charming blend of Tibetan and Indian cultures appeared first on Delhi Messenger.