Friday, February 9, 2024 | Vol. 43, No. 6
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February 9, 2024
Indo American News
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Published weekly from Houston, TX
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Masala Radio’s Houston Holi on March 2 – Biggest Holi in USA
The Houston Holi Festival of Colors brings together people from all walks of life to celebrate the triumph of good over evil, a cherished tradition rooted in Hindu culture.
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WEDDINGS, SPECIAL EVENTS, TENTED EVENTS, OUTDOOR COURTYARD
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Indo-American News • Friday, february 9, 2024• www.indoamerican-news.com
2 February 9, 2024 COMMUNITY Masala Radio’s Houston Holi on March 2 – Biggest Holi in USA
Houston: Prepare to immerse yourself in a riot of colors and culture at the much-anticipated Houston Holi Festival of Colors 2024! As one of the largest Holi celebrations in the USA, this event is a testament to Houston’s vibrant Indo-American community (second largest in the US and its commitment to fostering unity amidst diversity. Get ready for an unforgettable experience of joy, music, and togetherness under the Texas sun! The Houston Holi Festival of Colors brings together people from all walks of life to celebrate the triumph of good over evil, a cherished tradition rooted in Hindu culture. This year the headliner concert will be ARJUN from the UK, opened by Twi Sisters an amazing sister DJ DUO, along with 7 of the best in the country DJs for non-stop dancing. Mark your calendars for Saturday, March 2nd, from 12:00 PM to 5:00 PM, as we gather at the spacious BH Ranch located at 14149 Player St, Houston, TX 77045.
Nestled just 15 minutes from Sugar Land on Beltway 8 near W. Fuqua, this venue offers ample parking and green spaces perfect for our grand festivities. With over 12,000+ attendees each year, this event promises an exhilarating atmosphere filled with music, dance, and, of course, vibrant colors! Indulge in the mouthwatering flavors of Indian street food from our array of vegetarian food booths, serving up authentic delicacies to tantalize your taste buds. Parenting with Masala Radio, Gujarati Samaj of Houston will stock an exclusive organic color powder booth along with he International Hindi Association (IHA) sourcing a range of water guns allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the spirit of Holi. Revered umbrella organization Hindus of Greater Houston will be featuring interactive games from the team of the soon to open Texas Hindu Campsite. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to title sponsor Elite Mingle along with other esteemed spon-
sors including Amir Dodhiya, Ali Sheikhani, Ramji Law Group, Deep Foods, Tara Capital, Bob’s Lounge, Neptune Imports, Cell Pay, Artex Signs & Graphics, Jindal Saw, and George Willy, whose generous support makes this event possible. Don’t miss the opportunity to connect with Chirag Patel at the Elite Mingle booth, where you can learn more about the biggest singles convention coming to Houston at the Hilton Americas
Sat March 23rd. Whether you’re a seasoned Holi reveler or experiencing the magic for the first time, the Houston Holi Festival of Colors welcomes one and all. Remember to arrive early to avoid traffic and long lines, and don’t forget to take advantage of group ticket discounts using promo code “MASALA” on HoustonHoli.com or Eventbrite. As the excitement builds and the countdown to Holi begins, let’s
Indo-American News • Friday, february 9, 2024 • www.indoamerican-news
come together as a community to celebrate love, diversity, and togetherness. Join us at the Houston Holi Festival of Colors 2024 for an unforgettable experience that will leave your heart full and your spirit soaring. For more information on tickets, parking, booth rentals, sponsorship opportunities, and performance slots visit houstonholi.com and be a part of this vibrant celebration of unity and diversity!
COMMUNITY
February 9, 2024
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India Culture Center’s 75th Republic Day Celebration: “Tiranga in Space”
ence with pomp and show and was extremely liked by the audience. Several dignitaries, of Indian origin, from the Greater Houston Area also went up on the stage to congratulate Indo-Americans on the 75th Republic Day of India. The dignitaries present were Judge of Fort Bend County Hon, K.P. George, Ken Mathew, Mayor of Stafford, Robin Elackatt, Mayor of Missouri City, Judge Juli Mathew presiding judge of County Court-3, Fort Bend County, Alice Chen, Council Member of Stafford, Abhijeet Utturkar, Council Member of Fulshear, and Naushad Kermally, Council Member of Sugar Land. Hon. K.P. George congratulated the Indian diaspora on the occasion and thanked them for their contributions to USA. ICC President Mr. Malla Mekala introduced the chief guest for the event Consul Sandeep Chaudhury from the Consulate General of India, Houston. Consul Chaudhury gave a rousing speech on India, its people, and its democratic traditions on the occasion. Mr. Malla Mekala also introduced to the audience and also honored Karim Traore, a social and solidarity Economist and General Director of APEC from the country of Burkina Faso in Central Africa. The entire ICC Board of Directors led by the President Mr. Malla Mekala along with ICC’s board of trustees contributed to the outstanding success of the afternoon. The afternoon fair also include about 40 booths that included sale of Indian dresses and jewelry, health clinic by Ibn Sina Foundation and Medwin, several religious, political and cultural non-profit organizations from the Houston area. One of the booths, Hindus of Greater Houston, had poster exhibits showcasing “Ramayan Around the World”. It was a nice collection of pictures on Ramayan. Indo-American Newspaper congratulates all the volunteers of India Culture Center, including its Board of Directors, Board of Trustees for bringing such an event for free to the Indo-Americans of Greater Houston. Each of the ICC Board members sponsored the event. Other major sponsors were Bharat and Falguni Gandhi, Tasnim Vadva, Swapan Dhairyawan, Raj and Kanwal Bhalla, Mahesh Wadhwa, Tara Capital, Rajender Singh, Infodat, Hindus of Greater Houston, Ramesh Cherivirala, MD & Associates, WallisBank, Desi Brothers and Biryani Factory.
Houston India Culture Center Celebrated India’s 75th Republic Day on January 28th at the GSH Event Center. The event started at 1.00 PM. The theme of this years celebration was “Tiranga in Space” to celebrate the landing of Indian Space Vehicle Chandrayan-3 on the Moon on August 23. The decorations at the event were full of Indian tricolors deep saffron, white, and green and paintings and replicas of space crafts. It was a day full of songs, Indian dances, food, joy, and celebration. The event chair was Dr. Hina Azam, and the co-chair was Dr. Santosh Verma. Uma Mantravadi was the cultural chair. The emcees for the event were Naeem Vehvaria and Ashmita Singh. The cultural program started with the Aigiri Nandini Stotra melodiously recited by two young children Arni and Amvi Sahu. The rhythm, energy and the periodic swing of the words makes it truly outstanding. The sounds from this Stotra support the human body system in raising consciousness and energy. There were several dances that were performed to the tunes of popular Indian patriotic songs. Children from the following schools performed: Bharatha Darshana (Bharatanatyam), Nrityakalpana (Kathak), Khushboo Dance (Bollywood), Any1CanDance(Bollywood), Aditi Dance Sensation (Bollywood), Storytellers (Kathak), APARC Dazzling Stars (Kollattam), Bollywood Dancing Stars, Dhadak (Bharatanatyam), Kathak Beats(Kathak), Naatyavani (Indian Classical) and Indiawaale (Contemporary). It was a mesmerizing sight to see so many children of all ages perform on the stage. These performances were choreographed by very popular dance gurus and professional choreographers who have given their entire life in learning, teaching, and promoting famous classical, folk and contemporary dance forms from India. One of the highlights of the celebration was Dr. Kamlesh Lulla, a NASA Chief Scientist, who gave an excellent presentation on Chandrayyan-3 mission and the collaboration between ISRO and NASA over the years. He congratulated the men and women of India’s ISRO who contributed to the success of Chandrauaan-3. The current Mrs. Universe USA, Mrs. Rutvi Chauhan, also graced the occasion with her presence. She was introduced to the audi-
Indo-American News • Friday, february 9, 2024• www.indoamerican-news.com
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COMMUNITY
February 9, 2024
Houston Tech Leader Shines in Haut Monde Mrs. India Worldwide 2024
Houston: In an inspiring blend of beauty and intellect, Mrs. Devshree Golecha from Houston, Texas, has been announced as a finalist in the prestigious Haut Monde Mrs. India Worldwide 2024. This leading beauty pageant, known for its inclusive and diverse platform, celebrates women from all walks of life, empowering them to showcase their beauty and talents on a global stage. The event is spearheaded by Mr. Bharat Kumar Bhramar, a renowned figure in the fashion industry with over 26 years of experience in sectors ranging from education and travel to fashion magazines and beauty pageants, serving as the Chairman of the Haut Monde India Group. Mrs. Golecha, a distinguished figure in the field of data science and technology, has made her mark with significant contributions and achievements. Recognized as one of the “40 under 40” by the Houston Business Journal and CDO Magazine, her leadership and impact in data science have earned her numerous accolades, including being named one of the Leading Academic Data Leaders and listed among the Global Data Power Women by Chief Data Officer Magazine. Additionally, her commitment to technology and innovation has been acknowledged as she was celebrated as an Extraordinary Woman in Tech in Texas by Women in Tech Texas. Venturing into the beauty pageant world, Mrs. Golecha aims to pave the way for professional women and mothers, encouraging them to explore and embrace all facets of their identity, including health and beauty, alongside their careers. As the founder of Peach Beauti, an organic skincare line, she champions clean, plant-based skincare solutions. As she undergoes grooming sessions with industry experts provided by Haut Monde Mrs. India Worldwide, Mrs. Golecha expresses gratitude for the incredible opportunity to showcase her talents and personality, highlighting her multifaceted prowess and commitment to making a positive impact. Follow Devshree’s journey on Instagram at devshree. golecha.
Bharat Kumar Bhramar, Chairman of Haut Monde India Group. Indo-American News • Friday, february 9, 2024 • www.indoamerican-news
5 BAPS Hindu Mandir in Abu Dhabi Awaits Grand Inauguration
COMMUNITY
Abu Dhabi: Standing tall amidst the shimmering sands of Abu Dhabi, the BAPS Hindu Mandir awaits its grand inauguration on February 14, 2024, by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, His Holiness Mahant Swami Maharaj, dignitaries from UAE and well-wishers from across the world. This magnificent structure, located in the Abu Mureikhah district is set to be the first traditional Hindu stone temple in the United Arab Emirates. The Mandir embodies not just spiritual significance but also a powerful narrative of interfaith harmony and cultural exchange. Its journey, paved with the graciousness of the UAE government and the dedication of the BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha, reflects a shared vision for a world where diverse communities thrive together. The seeds of this dream were sown in April 1997, when HH Pramukh Swami Maharaj, the then spiritual leader of BAPS, envisioned a mandir in Abu Dhabi that would “bring countries, cultures, communities and religions closer together.” This vision found fertile ground in the UAE’s growing embrace of tolerance and religious freedom. A defining moment arrived in February 2018, when Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi, generously gifted a plot of land, demonstrating the UAE’s unwavering commitment to interfaith dialogue. This gesture, further strengthened by PM Modi’s launch of the project at the Dubai Opera that same
month, marked a historic chapter in interfaith relations. But the story goes beyond official pronouncements. It takes root in the vibrant history of the Hindu community in the UAE. Since the nation’s founding in 1971, Hindus have formed a significant part of its multicultural tapestry. Their presence, nurtured by the UAE’s welcoming environment, fueled the desire for a spiritual space that reflected their cultural heritage. For decades, Hindus in the UAE have nurtured their faith through weekly satsang assemblies, gatherings dedicated to prayer, spiritual discourses, and community building. These assemblies, fur-
February 9, 2024
ther strengthened by regular visits of spiritual leaders from India, provided a sense of belonging and shared purpose. It was within this fertile ground of devotion and community spirit that the dream of a mandir truly blossomed. The groundbreaking ceremony, the Shilanyas, held in April 2019, marked the beginning of a remarkable journey. Dignitaries from both India and the UAE gathered to celebrate the commencement of construction, signifying the shared commitment to realizing this historic project. The mandir, designed and built with meticulous attention to detail, incorporates sustainable practices and fea-
tures breathtaking architecture that seamlessly blends ancient Hindu temple designs with contemporary aesthetics, reflecting the harmonious marriage of tradition and modernity. His Holiness Mahant Swami Maharaj arrived in Abu Dhabi on February 5, 2024 as a state guest to preside over the historic inauguration of a Hindu temple. Upon arrival at the airport, His Holiness was warmly greeted by His Excellency Sheikh Nahayan Mabarak Al Nahyan, Minister of Tolerance for the UAE. His Excellency said to His Holiness, “Welcome to the UAE. Our nation is blessed with your presence. We are touched by
your kindness and we feel your prayers.” In response, Mahant Swami Maharaj warmly replied, “We are touched by your love and respect. The leaders of the UAE are great, good, and large-hearted.” The inauguration of the iconic Mandir will be celebrated through the ‘Festival of Harmony’ – a series of uplifting programs and community events focused on strengthening faith, mobilizing community service, and inspiring harmony among people of all generations and backgrounds. The ‘Festival of Harmony’ will include the grand inauguration ceremony of the Mandir on Wednesday, February 14, 2024 in the presence of esteemed dignitaries, including Prime Minister of India, Shri Narendra Modi. The inauguration will be a momentous occasion, as the BAPS Hindu Mandir stands as a beacon of hope, reminding us that cultural diversity can be a source of strength and progress, paving the way for a more peaceful and inclusive world. Brahmaviharidas Swami, who has been overseeing the Mandir project under the guidance of His Holiness Mahant Swami Maharaj, explained, “The BAPS Hindu Mandir in Abu Dhabi serves as a spiritual oasis for global harmony that celebrates the past and recalibrates the future. It is a timeless testament to the spirituality of His Holiness Pramukh Swami Maharaj and the generosity, sincerity, and friendship of the leaderships of the UAE, India, and BAPS.”
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COMMUNITY
February 9, 2024
76th Martyrdom Anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi Commemorated as Shraddhanjali
Eternal Gandhi Museum Houston, EGMH, commemorated 76th martyrdom anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi for truth and nonviolence as Shraddhanjali, at its brand new facilities by paying a tribute to Mahatma Gandhi on this past Saturday, February 3, 2024. It was a full house with standing room only. Mahatma Gandhi said “I shall conquer untruth by truth. And in resisting untruth, I shall put up with all suffering.” He was never afraid of death. Currently, the world is encountering several challenges including intolerance, impatience, and terrorism. It is essential to follow the ideas and principles of Mahatma Gandhi, especially truth and nonviolence, not only to achieve world peace and prosperity, but achieve the same within one’s own heart. Eternal Gandhi Museum Houston is a non-profit organization whose mission is to promote the universal values of truth, nonviolence, love, and service. It is the first of its kind museum in the Americas dedicated to Mahatma Gandhi to preserve and promote his ever-lasting legacy of nonviolent conflict resolution. The Shraddhanjali program started at 3:00 pm with the Universal Prayer and a gracious welcome by EGMH board of Trustee member, Manish Wani. Mrs. Tina Khatri was a brilliant emcee as she guided the audience through the auspicious program. Ms. Raji Krishnamurthy and her daughter Yamini started the program with a beautiful rendition of the bhajan “Vaishnav Jan to,” Mahatma Gandhi’s favorite bhajan,
Sreepadam Performing Arts and Cultural Education members Supriya Ramanatham, Tarini Kumar, and Sharanya Dutta performing at Shraddhanjali
The auditorium at EGMH was full to the capacity with standing room only.
spiritual song, written in the 15th century by Gujarati poet Narsinh Mehta. Next, on behalf of Congressman Al Green’s office, Globe Beavers presented a Certificate of Recog-
nition to the Trustees of EGMH. Fort Bend County Judge KP George, a supporter of the museum since inception, addressed the crowd and advised how the values and principles of Mahatma
Gandhi are more relevant today than ever. On behalf of Fort Bend Conty, Judge KP George presented a Proclamation to EGMH Cofounder, Mr. Atul Kothari. Ishaan Jha from Ann Sullivan Elementary School, the 2nd place winner of the annual Mahatma Gandhi Week speech contest in the 10 years and younger category, delighted the audience with his winning speech, “Do video games lead to violence.” On behalf of the Consul General of India’s office, Deputy Consul General Sandeep Choudhary addressed the audience with his thoughtful speech on the significance of the martyrdom day and of Gandhi’s values and principles. Representative Suleman Lalani, M.D., from House District 76 in Fort Bend County, Texas presented to EGMH the actual flag that was hoisted over the Texas Capitol on October 2, 2023, and spoke about Gandhi’s message of “Be the change you wish to see.” A person giving a presentation to a group of people Description automatically generated The talented T. Raja Banga, Director of the Tagore Society of Houston, and their musical band presented a beautiful rendition of Vedic Chant Sangachadhwam, and Amar Mukti. Partha Chatterjee, Founding Patron of Durgabari Houston presented Rabindranath Tagore’s poem “Where the mind is without fear” followed by “Ekla Chalo Re,” presented by the group. Debleena Banga presented a letter from Gandhi ji to Tagore. Keynote Speaker, Rev. Michael Gott, from Unity Houston, de-
Indo-American News • Friday, february 9, 2024 • www.indoamerican-news
lighted the audience with his inspiring speech regarding Gandhi’s relevance in today’s society and also displayed his amazing vocal talent. Next, talented students from Sreepadam Performing Arts and Cultural Education including Supriya Ramanatham, Tarini Kumar, and Sharanya Dutta, performed 2 beautiful Bharatanatyam dances titled “Hari Hari”, a bhajan in praise of Lord Vishnu and “Charishnu” which literally means the desire to move. Ramya Elangovan, winner in the 11 years and older category of Mahatma Gandhi Week speech contest, presented her compelling speech on the “Role of Social Media in promoting peace.” Dr. Manish Wani, Co-Founder and a member of Board of Trustees of EGMH, gave an informative update on the Eternal Gandhi Museum Houston which opened its doors to the public on August 15th, 2023. Since then, many community programs and events have been sponsored by the museum. He also announced the upcoming Wisdom of Gandhi classes, a 4-week free event discussing the book by Eknath Easwaran, “Gandhi the Man.” The program concluded with a vote of thanks by Board of Trustee member Mr. G.V. Krishnan. A short reception followed with tea and snacks and then docents led group tours of the galleries of the Eternal Gandhi Museum Houston. Please visit egmh.org for further information.
February 9, 2024
Indo-American News • Friday, february 9, 2024• www.indoamerican-news.com
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February 9, 2024
Indian Musicians Pick Up 6 Grammies
Shankar Mahadevan, Ganesh Rajagopalan, Zakir Hussain and V. Selvaganesh -- Shakti, winners of the “Global Music Album” award for “This Moment”
Los Angeles: Shakti have been awarded the Grammy for Global Music Album, receiving the prize for This Moment, their first studio release in 46 years. The jazz fusion band was formed in 1973 as a collaboration between Indian violinist L Shankar, percussionists Zakir Hussain and Vikku Vinayakram, as well as English guitarist John McLaughlin, famed for his collaborations with Miles Davis. The group was celebrated for their idiosyncratic blend of jazz and Indian music, namely Hindustani and Carnatic traditions. The band released the albums A Handful of Beauty and Natural Elements in 1976 and 1977. Shakti toured extensively in the mid1970s, and only made a handful of appearances afterwards, changing their line-up. In 1997, McLaughlin and Hussain formed a similar band under the name Remember Shakti. Released in June, This Moment
marks the band’s first studio album since 1977. The record features founding members McLaughlin and Hussain, as well as vocalist Shankar Mahadevan, violinist Ganesh Rajagopalan and percussionist Selvaganesh Vinayakram, son of Vikku. Hussain was one of the big winners at the 2024 Grammys, picking up three awards. The composer and tabla player won the Contemporary Instrumental Album category for As We Speak, work he created alongside Bela Fleck, Edgar Meyer and Rakesh Chaurasia. Their song Pashto also won the Best Global Music Performance Grammy. The wins are being celebrated online by notable Indian figures, including composer Ricky Kej who posted on X, formerly Twitter: “This is truly India’s year at the Grammys!!! Wowww … Rakesh Chaurasia, Shankar Mahadevan, Ganesh Rajagopalan, Selvaganesh Vinayakram and Ustad Zakir Hussain … India is truly shining!!
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Indo-American News • Friday, february 9, 2024 • www.indoamerican-news
COMMUNITY
February 9, 2024
JVB’s New Executive Committee Hosts Meditation Workshop
By Kuldeep Lunia Houston: Under the guidance of Samani Madhur Pragyaji and Samani Jigyasa Pragya ji, the Executive Committee (EC) of the JVB Preksha Meditation Center for the 2024-2025 term recently hosted its inaugural Preksha meditation workshop for 2024. This three-hour session commenced with “Kayotsarga,” a technique focusing on bodily relaxation and thought control. Samani Arjav Pragyaji, alongside other Samanijis (Jain nuns), elucidated various methods of achieving a meditative state and discussed the positive impacts of meditation. They emphasized that correct meditation practices can enhance confidence and alleviate negative thoughts and emotions. The workshop drew over 50 participants, reflecting significant interest in meditation within the community. The recently inaugurated Executive Committee, assuming office in January for the 2024-2025 term, eagerly unveiled its agenda to host a multitude of workshops and events throughout the year. We extend our heartfelt wishes to the incumbent executive committee under the leadership of the newly appointed President, Gaurav Jhaveri. Gaurav brings over two decades of dedicated service to JVB, having previously held
the position of vice president. His team comprises two vice presidents, Pradeep Jain & Kuldeep Lunia, Secretary Harshad Parakh, and Treasurer Amit Jain. The EC will receive steadfast support from a team of dedicated coordinators responsible for overseeing specific roles and programs. Monika Daga remains the Saminiji’s Gochari coordinator, overseeing food arrangements for the nuns. Anusha Jain and Suvarna Jain will continue as the Kids Gyanshala coordinators, managing the Sunday School program. Sarika Gandhi will oversee foodrelated matters, while Sudeep Gandhi will manage facilities. Priyanka Jain will serve as the Cultural coordinator. JVB Preksha Meditation Center envisions a blissful and peaceful society through Preksha Meditation, Yoga, and Education of Non-violence. It conducts weekly Meditation, Yoga and Swadhyay sessions and runs dedicated events and programs like Children Gyanshala & Meditation Camps. It is open to all, and every session or event is free of charge to its attendees. For further information, call Gaurav Jhaveri at 407-965-9618. Visit www. jvbhouston.org or send an email at info@jvbhouston.org for more information.
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Samanijis along with camp attendees
Attendees listening to Samanijis information discourse on Preksha Meditation
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Indo American News Founder: Dr. K.L. Sindwani Publisher: Jawahar Malhotra Editor: Pramod Kulkarni Correspondent: Sanchali Basu ®All rights reserved. No material herein or portions thereof may be published without the written consent of the publisher. Deadline for advertising and articles is 4 pm on Monday of each week. Please include self-addressed, stamped envelope for return of all unsolicited material. Published at 7457 Harwin Drive, Suite 212, Houston, Texas 77036.Tel:713-789-6397, email: indoamericannews@yahoo.com, website: www.indoamerican-news.com
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ENTERTAINMENT
February 9, 2024
‘Indian Police Force’: Predictable but Novel
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Vikram’s wife, and Sharad Kelkar makes a notable impact with his late entry into the series. The series features well-shot songs in Delhi’s historical monuments (Humayun’s Tomb, Purana Quila), adding to its visual appeal, although some may find these musical interludes slowing down the pacing. The background score by Amar Mohile blends well with the narrative. The cinematography (by Girish Kant and Raza Hussain Mehta) along with wide-angle shots of cities like Jaipur and Delhi, gives the series a Bollywoodstyle cinematic feel. Despite the predictability in the storyline, ‘Indian Police Force’ is recommended for its novelty in delivering a high-packed action series in the digital space. The half-hourly episode format enhances its appeal, making it a worthy watch for fans of the cop universe and those seeking engaging content in the web series realm.. -- Times of India
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Story: This seven-part series follows a Delhi police officer Kabir Malik (Sidharth Malhotra), who puts everything on the line to protect India’s national capital. Review: Rohit Shetty’s foray into the web series realm with ‘Indian Police Force’ brings the signature elements of his cop universe to the digital space. This seven-part series has attitude, style, showmanship, and star power as expected from any of Shetty’s offerings. The series kicks off with Shetty’s signature style—high-octane action sequences, gun fights, and car chases, keeping viewers engaged right from the beginning. The show opens with a rather chilling scene where several blasts occur in the city, causing destruction and wreaking havoc on the lives of many. Similar to Shetty’s films, even this cop action drama unfolds with a thrilling cat-andmouse chase between dedicated police officers Vikram Bakshi (Vivek Oberoi), Kabir and the perpetrators behind the attacks. They later join forces with ATS Chief Tara Shetty (Shilpa Shetty) in pursuit of a man connected to Gujarat blasts, leading them to Haider (Mayyank Taandon). The story unfolds with questions about Haider’s role as the mastermind and explores themes of radicalization and terrorism. While the storyline may follow a familiar pattern of revenge and Kaushika Shah the effects of radicalism, the series comLicensed Sales Agent pensates with fast832-282-3515, TTY 711 paced developments and revelations. The co-direction by Rohit Shetty and Sushwanth Prakash, along with the writing team (SanY0066_23SPRJ55188_C deep Saket, Anusha
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Nandkumar, Ayush Trivedi, Vidhi Ghodgaonkar, and Sanchit Bedre), sets up a promising narrative that keeps the audience hooked. However, the predictability of the storyline may disappoint some viewers who are looking for more surprises. But ‘Indian Police Force’ scores big time with a couple of decent performances. Siddharth Malhotra’s understated and restrained act in the title role is a definite winner. With the usage of a profusion of cuss words, one is exposed to another facet of Malhotra. The emotional nuances of Kabir’s character, including his relationship with his late wife Rashmi (Isha Talwar), are effectively captured, adding layers to the narrative. Vivek Oberoi’s promising portrayal of senior officer Vikram Bakshi and Shilpa Shetty’s kickass performance as ATS Chief Tara Shetty add depth to the ensemble cast. Shweta Tiwari shines in emotional sequences as
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By Archika Khurana
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Solution Next Week
12 February 9, 2024
EXPERIENCED . DEDICATED . COMMITTED
Indo-American News • Friday, february 9, 2024 • www.indoamerican-news