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India’s Forex Reserves Witness Significant Growth After Nine Weeks

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India’s foreign exchange reserves have shown a remarkable recovery, with an increase of $1.51 billion as of November 9, 2024. This uptick brings the reserves to $658.09 billion, marking the first rise in nine weeks after a period of decline that saw the reserves hit a five-month low.

Breaking Down the Rise in Forex Reserves

The growth in India’s forex reserves can be attributed primarily to an increase in foreign currency assets (FCA), a key component of the reserves. FCA surged by $2.06 billion, reaching $568.85 billion. Additionally, Special Drawing Rights (SDRs), an international reserve asset created by the International Monetary Fund (IMF), rose by $22 million, taking their total to $18.01 billion.

SDRs play a critical role in supplementing a country’s official reserves. They can be exchanged among IMF member countries, providing flexibility in global financial transactions and stability during times of economic uncertainty.

The Role of the Reserve Bank of India

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI), the central bank tasked with regulating the nation’s monetary policy, is instrumental in managing forex reserves. RBI Governor Shaktikanta Das has emphasized the importance of careful reserve management to mitigate market volatility and maintain confidence in India’s economic system.

The RBI uses these reserves strategically to stabilize the rupee, manage inflation, and provide a buffer against external economic shocks, ensuring financial stability and investor trust.

Why Forex Reserves Matter

Foreign exchange reserves are a cornerstone of a country’s economic health. They serve as a safeguard against economic crises, offering the government the ability to meet international payment obligations, stabilize currency fluctuations, and maintain market confidence.

For investors, strong forex reserves signal economic stability and resilience, attracting foreign investments and fostering economic growth.

Recent Trends and Optimism Ahead

This recent increase in India’s forex reserves reverses a downward trend that had persisted for nine weeks. Analysts view this recovery as a positive sign for the country’s foreign exchange scenario.

With the RBI’s meticulous approach to managing reserves, experts anticipate sustained levels of stability in the coming months. The focus remains on maintaining economic confidence, minimizing market disruptions, and ensuring the financial system’s robustness.

Summing Up

India’s foreign exchange reserves are a critical tool in safeguarding the nation’s financial health. The recent increase, driven by foreign currency assets and SDRs, highlights the effectiveness of the Reserve Bank of India’s strategic reserve management.

As global economic uncertainties persist, India’s strong forex reserves provide a much-needed buffer, reinforcing the country’s economic resilience and paving the way for sustained growth and stability.

What is Badri art? Know the history behind it…

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Khushi Sharma


Bidri or Bidriware is a metal handicraft from the city of Bidar in Karnataka, India. It was developed in the 14th century C.E. during the rule of the Bahmani Sultans.

The Bidri art form is a kind of damascene work known as “koftagiri” –  a system of ornamentation consisting of encrusting gold or silver on iron objects. In ‘Bidri’ or ‘Bidari’, the metals silver, gold or brass are overlaid or inlaid in the designs to decorate objects made out of an alloy of zinc and copper.

History
The art flourished during the Bahmani (1347-1527 A.D) and Baridi (1489-1619 A.D) Sultanate rule in the Deccan region. Bidar was part of these Sultanates at different times where the art flourished.
Bidriware techniques and styles are influenced by Persian art. In Persia during the Abbasid period (750-1258 A.D), copper-inlaid objects were used in the royal Sultans’ palaces and merchants’ homes.

Technique and design
The technique became very popular over time to include gold and silver inlay work and was practised in Central Islamic lands – mainly Herat, Mosul, Cairo and Aleppo. It is thus highly possible that craftsmen migrated to the Deccan areas under the Bahmanis and Baridis from Persia during their rule, because it is known that they encouraged art and learning; who invited talented people to come and settle in their kingdoms. The craftsmen took it forward to make it one of India’s iconic metalcrafts.

The Crafting Process
The basic material from which the objects are crafted are an alloy of zinc, copper and lead. The mixture of zinc and copper is in the ratio of 16:1. Copper is added to make zinc take the polish better. The process involved in the production of a Bidri item of art involves casting, polishing, engraving, inlaying and blackening the alloy.

What is Warli art? What is the significance of Warli art?

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Khushi Sharma

Warli art is a traditional folk art form that originated in Maharashtra, India, and is characterized by its geometric patterns and colorful images.

History
The name ‘Warli’ is inspired by the largest tribe found in the northern outskirts of Maharashtra’s capital Mumbai also the term ‘Warli’ is derived from ‘Waral’ which means a small piece of tilled land. It is dated back to the 10th century AD. The Warli Tribe is an indigenous tribe, found in Western India. Portions of mountainous as well as coastal regions of the Maharashtra-Gujarat border are inhabited by the Warli/Varli tribes
It is stated the Warli women used to paint their walls during the marriage to reflect on happiness and celebrations. Warli wall paintings are considered to be auspicious.

Who popularised Warli art?
Jivya Soma Mashe (1934 – 15 May 2018) was an artist of the Maharashtra state in India, who popularised the Warli tribal art form. Mashe was born in Dhamangaon village in Talasari taluka of Thane district of Maharashtra.

What does Warli art include ?
Warli art is based on three elementary shapes combined in various ways:
The triangle (reminiscent of the pointed form of the sacred mountains and human forms)
The circle (the sun and the moon) and the visual pattern of the narration
The square (which is the shape both of the sacred space and the piece of land) Dots and dashes represent geometrical designs

How Warli art is made?
The ritual paintings are usually created on the inside walls of village huts. The walls are made of a mixture of branches, earth and red brick that make a red ochre background for the paintings. The Warli only paint with a white pigment made from a mixture of rice flour and water, with gum as a binder in order to make it long lasting.

What is Tara Dhokra art? What is the significance of lost-wax technique?

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Khushi Sharma

Dhokra is a traditional Indian metal casting art form that uses the lost-wax technique. The art is named after the nomadic Dhokra Damar tribe and is practiced in the tribal belts of West Bengal, Odisha, Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, and Telangana.

Dhokra art is known for its folk motifs, simple yet powerful form, and intricate designs. Some common Dhokra art pieces include horses, elephants, peacocks, owls, religious images, lamp caskets, and measuring bowls.
The lost-wax technique has been used in India for over 4,000 years. The earliest known artifact made using this techniqu hue is the bronze Dancing Girl sculpture from Mohenjo-daro, which is believed to date back to 2300 BCE.

Popularity
The product of dhokra artisans are in great demand in domestic and foreign markets because of primitive simplicity, enchanting folk motifs and forceful form. Dhokra horses, elephants, peacocks, owls, religious images, measuring bowls, and lamp caskets etc., are highly appreciated.

The Process
There are two main processes of lost wax casting: solid casting and hollow casting.
Solid casting does not use a clay core but instead a solid piece of wax to create the mould; hollow casting is the more traditional method and uses the clay core.

Scientists have developed a Lickable VR Device and it would allow you to taste foods through your TV

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Imagine watching a cooking show and actually tasting the food being prepared on screen. Thanks to groundbreaking research by scientists at the City University of Hong Kong, this futuristic concept may soon become a reality. Researchers have developed a lickable VR device capable of simulating a range of tastes, creating an immersive sensory experience like never before.

The Innovation Behind the VR Lollipop

This “lollipop-shaped taste interfacing system” uses a unique gel-based mechanism to deliver up to nine distinct flavors. The flavors—ranging from sugar and salt to cherry, passion fruit, and green tea—are created using food-grade chemicals stored in agarose gel, a substance commonly derived from red algae.

The magic happens when a small electrical current is applied to the gel. This process, known as iontophoresis, brings the flavor chemicals to the surface, allowing them to mix with saliva on the user’s tongue. By adjusting the voltage, the device can simulate stronger or milder tastes, creating a highly customizable flavor experience.

At just 15 grams—about the weight of an AAA battery—the portable device is designed to be lightweight and user-friendly, making it an innovative tool for integrating taste into virtual and augmented reality (VR/AR).

A New Frontier for VR: Taste

While virtual reality has long captured the senses of sight, sound, and touch, taste has remained elusive. The development of this device bridges a critical gap in the VR experience. By pairing the taste system with a seven-channel smell simulator, which uses paraffin wax strips to generate corresponding scents, researchers are striving to recreate the full sensory experience of eating in a virtual environment.

Potential Applications of the VR Taste Device

The researchers have identified several promising applications for this groundbreaking technology:

  1. Enhanced Entertainment Experiences
    Cooking shows and food-centric programs could reach new heights of interactivity. Imagine tasting gourmet dishes while watching culinary competitions like The Great British Bake Off.
  2. Remote Shopping
    The device could revolutionize digital shopping by allowing users to “taste-test” food products from the comfort of their homes before making a purchase.
  3. Medical Applications
    It could be used for “medical gustation assessments,” essentially taste-equivalent tests for diagnosing taste-related health issues, much like an eye test assesses vision.
  4. Educational Tools
    For children and culinary enthusiasts, the VR lollipop could serve as an engaging way to explore different flavors, cultures, and cuisines.

Challenges and Future Prospects

Though revolutionary, the device does come with limitations. Each agarose gel pack can last for about an hour before needing replacement, and the current flavor range is relatively narrow. However, the researchers are optimistic about expanding the flavor options and improving the device’s longevity in future iterations.

In their quest to make the technology safe and effective, the team opted for a gel-based approach instead of using electrostimulation directly on the tongue. While the gel method requires regular refills, it minimizes risks and provides a more user-friendly experience.

The Road Ahead for Taste in VR

As VR technology continues to evolve, integrating all five senses will become increasingly possible. With this new lickable device, researchers are pushing the boundaries of what virtual reality can offer, paving the way for immersive experiences that engage taste and smell.

Whether you’re exploring exotic cuisines, enjoying immersive cooking shows, or even taking a virtual food tour, the future of VR is undeniably flavorful. The days of merely watching your favorite chef cook could soon be replaced with actually tasting their creations—all from the comfort of your own home.

In the coming years, this innovative device could redefine how we interact with food, entertainment, and technology, making virtual reality an even more sensory-rich experience.

Michelle Bachelet Honored with 2024 Indira Gandhi Prize for Peace, Disarmament, and Development

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Former President of Chile, Michelle Bachelet, has been awarded the prestigious 2024 Indira Gandhi Prize for Peace, Disarmament, and Development by the Indira Gandhi Memorial Trust. The award recognizes her lifelong dedication to promoting human rights, equality, and international collaboration.

The selection jury, chaired by former National Security Advisor Shivshankar Menon, praised Bachelet for her remarkable contributions to advancing global peace and development.

About the Indira Gandhi Prize

Instituted in 1986, the Indira Gandhi Prize honors individuals or organizations that embody the values of international peace, disarmament, and sustainable development. The prize includes a cash award of ₹25 lakh and a citation, underscoring the recipient’s commitment to transformative global impact.

Bachelet’s Illustrious Political Career

Michelle Bachelet has served two terms as President of Chile (2006–2010, 2014–2018), leaving a lasting legacy through her transformative reforms. Her presidency prioritized key areas such as education and taxation, aiming to bridge inequality gaps in Chilean society.

Notably, Bachelet was instrumental in strengthening India-Chile relations, playing a key role in negotiating a free trade agreement between the two nations.

A Champion for Human Rights

Beyond her presidency, Bachelet has been a formidable advocate for human rights worldwide. She served as the first Director of UN Women (2010–2013), championing women’s rights and gender equality on a global scale.

From 2018 to 2022, she held the position of UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, where her leadership addressed pressing issues such as LGBTQ rights, global inequality, and the defense of marginalized communities. Her unwavering commitment to justice and inclusivity has left an indelible mark on the international stage.

Strengthening India-Chile Ties

Bachelet’s efforts extended beyond Chile, fostering stronger diplomatic ties with India. Her initiatives encouraged bilateral collaboration in diverse areas such as trade, cultural exchange, and sustainable development, enriching the relationship between the two nations.

A Global Recognition of Leadership

The Indira Gandhi Prize for Peace, Disarmament, and Development celebrates individuals who have made enduring contributions to global peace and progress. Michelle Bachelet’s selection reaffirms the significance of her work in championing human rights, equality, and international cooperation.

Her recognition serves as a testament to the enduring power of visionary leadership in shaping a more just and inclusive world.

Deutsche Bank and The Akshaya Patra Foundation Break Ground on State-of-the-Art Kitchen in Pune

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Deutsche Bank and The Akshaya Patra Foundation have further strengthened their long-standing partnership to combat classroom hunger by initiating the construction of a state-of-the-art kitchen in Shivajinagar, Pune. The groundbreaking ceremony for this innovative facility marks a major milestone in their joint efforts to enhance the lives of underprivileged children through the Pradhan Mantri Poshan Shakti Nirman (PM POSHAN) scheme. The Akshaya Patra Foundation is the implementing partner of the PM POSHAN initiative and world’s largest NGO-Run school meal program.

Expected to be operational by early 2026, the multi-level kitchen will provide over 25,000 daily hot, nutritious meals to students in government and government-aided schools across Pune. This initiative is aimed at improving school attendance, academic performance, and the overall health and well-being of marginalized children. The facility will adhere to the highest standards of hygiene and safety and is designed to serve as Akshaya Patra’s central kitchen in Pune. Beyond addressing nutrition and education, the project is poised to create employment opportunities and support local agriculture, fostering economic development within the community.


The ceremony was attended by Mr. Kaushik Shaparia, CEO of Deutsche Bank Group, India, along with Shri Sampati Dasa, Regional President – Pune, The Akshaya Patra Foundation; Shri Shridhar Venkat, CEO, of The Akshaya Patra Foundation, Ms Ruchi Khemka, Head – CSR, Deutsche Bank Group, India, Praveen NR, IFS, Sri Prithviraj BP, IAS & other senior representatives from the Pune Government department & The Akshaya Patra Foundation and other dignitaries.


Mr. Kaushik Shaparia, CEO of Deutsche Bank Group, India, highlighting the significance of this initiative, said, “At Deutsche Bank, we believe collaboration is vital to creating lasting social impact. This new kitchen in Pune reflects our unwavering commitment to addressing hunger and education, empowering students to realize their full potential. With our strong presence in Pune, we also look forward to engaging our employees in advancing this meaningful cause and fostering sustainable change.”


Mr. Shridhar Venkat, CEO, from The Akshaya Patra Foundation, said, “Today’s groundbreaking ceremony marks a significant milestone in our ongoing journey with Deutsche Bank to eradicate classroom hunger and foster educational opportunities for children across Pune. Through this state-of-the-art kitchen facility, we are set to enhance our operational capabilities significantly, thereby ensuring that over 25,000 students receive nutritious meals every school day. This initiative not only supports academic excellence but also strengthens the fabric of our communities by promoting better health and creating economic opportunities locally. We are immensely grateful to Deutsche Bank’s for their support over the years. We also want to thank the Government of Maharashtra for providing us the opportunity to serve the children in the state. They have been instrumental in helping us make an impact and nurture the potential of every child we serve.”


Since 2014, Deutsche Bank has supported Akshaya Patra’s efforts to provide mid-day meals to students in Jaipur, Bengaluru, and Pune. Over the past decade, this partnership has facilitated the provision of over 8 crore meals to children, significantly enhancing educational opportunities for marginalized communities. In addition to the Pune kitchen, Deutsche Bank is extending its support to Akshaya Patra by funding meals for an additional 2,000 children in Gandhinagar, Ahmedabad.


The Pune kitchen is set to play a critical role in scaling Akshaya Patra’s Mid-Day Meal Programme in Maharashtra, furthering its mission of eliminating hunger and ensuring access to education for all.


For more details, please log on www.db.com/india /  www.akshayapatra.org.

Turning Aspirations into Reality: The Transformative Impact of The Art of Living Skill Training Centres

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Picture a future where aspirations meet the tools needed to bring them to life. The Art of Living Social Projects, inspired by the humanitarian vision of world-renowned spiritual leader Gurudev Sri Sri Ravi Shankar, is making this vision come alive. Guided by Gurudev’s profound belief that, “Youth are the backbone of our country, and they determine the country’s development. They have to be competent enough to face challenges in life,” The Art of Living’s Skill Training Centres are more than learning hubs – they are catalysts of transformation. These centers equip individuals with the tools to achieve sustainable livelihoods, economic independence, and a renewed sense of purpose.

Empowered by Skill and Resilience

This mission came to life in the story of Kamesh Maurya, a 19 year old determined dreamer from Baknauri village, Rampur, Uttar Pradesh. Despite being the youngest of six siblings, Kamesh carried his family’s hopes on his shoulders and embraced the challenge of offering a brighter future to them.
 

Kamesh’s journey took a transformative turn when he enrolled in The Art of Livings’ Mobile Repair Training Program, conducted in collaboration with Radico Khaitan. The three-month programme didn’t just teach technical skills; it provided the confidence and resilience needed to drive ambitions into action. Guided by dedicated trainers like Gaurav Kumar, Kamesh mastered key skills, including software installation and IC repairs. He was thrilled to have met Gurudev Sri Sri Ravi Shankar in Moradabad and credits Sudarshan Kriya for helping him stay calm and focused, enabling him to overcome challenges while pursuing his dreams.
 

Kamesh Turns His Vision into Reality

Immediately upon graduating, Kamesh proudly opened his own mobile repair shop in Baknauri on the 4th of December 2024 in his village of 18,000 households, where he sees vast potential. His optimism stretches beyond local earnings to the surrounding villages as well. For Kamesh, this isn’t just a business. It’s proof of what determination and the right guidance can achieve.

Turning Aspirations into Reality: The Transformative Impact of The Art of Living Skill Training Centres


 

“I want to expand my shop and make my career in mobile repairing,” Kamesh shares with determination. “I am deeply grateful to The Art of Living Social Projects and Radico Khaitan, whose support has made this possible.”
 

Building Futures with Skill Development

The Art of Living Social Projects tackles unemployment and underemployment through skill development and entrepreneurship programmes. By collaborating with governments, corporates, and community organisations, these initiatives empower youth to break socio-economic barriers and contribute to national progress.
 

Their approach goes beyond technical training. With a focus on industry-ready skills, leadership development, and soft skills like teamwork and problem-solving, participants are equipped for success. These programmes also provide a second chance for those excluded from traditional education, enabling them to start small businesses and contribute to local economies.
 

Transforming 4,20,000+ Lives

With 103 centres across India, The Art of Living Social Projects has impacted over 4,20,000 young people, including 3,10,000+ rural beneficiaries; offering training in 48 unique job roles. These initiatives provide more than just certificates; they build confidence and resilience, creating a ripple effect that strengthens families, communities, and nations. Additionally, 7,500+ villages have been positively influenced by over 300 dedicated trainers.
 

Kamesh’s story is a powerful reminder of how skill building programmes can change lives. With the right support and opportunities, young people like him can overcome obstacles and achieve their goals, proving that potential is everywhere – sometimes, all it takes is a little guidance.
 

About The Art of Living Social Projects
The Art of Living Social Projects has resolved to create positive societal impact through transformative initiatives. With a focus on holistic development, the organisation strives to contribute to the well-being of individuals and communities alike.

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PM Modi to Inaugurate Rising Rajasthan Global Investment Summit 2024 Today

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The stage is set for the Rising Rajasthan Global Investment Summit 2024, a landmark event poised to shape Rajasthan’s economic future. Taking place in Jaipur from December 9 to 11, the summit has already attracted investment proposals worth an impressive ₹25 lakh crore.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will inaugurate the event today, with prominent industrialists and central ministers in attendance. The opening session will feature discussions with business magnates such as Gautam Adani and Anand Mahindra, who are set to deliberate investment opportunities with Rajasthan Chief Minister Bhajanlal Sharma.

High-Profile Participation and Robust Security

Over 30 leading industrialists, along with central ministers and foreign dignitaries, will participate in the summit. International presence is notable, with countries such as Switzerland, Malaysia, Spain, Brazil, and Venezuela confirming their attendance. Thirteen ambassadors posted in India will also be among the 185 state guests, each assigned a protocol officer to ensure seamless coordination.

To maintain security and law and order, more than 4,000 police personnel, including 11 IPS officers, have been deployed across Jaipur.

Focus on Investment Across Key Sectors

The summit will feature 12 thematic sessions spotlighting Rajasthan’s investment potential across diverse sectors. A standout session on the tourism sector, titled “Embracing Diversity: Promoting Inclusive Tourism,” aims to showcase the state’s rich cultural heritage and opportunities for growth.

Other sessions will explore investments in MSMEs, exports, energy, minerals, and renewable energy, reflecting Rajasthan’s strategic focus on sustainability and industrial development.

Policy Push to Propel Growth

In a bid to attract investors, Chief Minister Bhajanlal Sharma has introduced nine new policies, targeting key growth areas such as MSMEs, exports, tourism, energy, and minerals. These initiatives aim to double the state’s economy, signaling the government’s proactive approach to economic development within the first year of Sharma’s tenure.

Challenges and the Road Ahead

While the summit exudes promise, the Sharma government faces the critical challenge of ensuring the execution of investment proposals. Similar events in the past, such as Investment Rajasthan under the Ashok Gehlot government and Resurgent Rajasthan during Vasundhara Raje’s tenure, witnessed limited success in implementing signed MOUs.

For Rajasthan, the Rising Rajasthan Global Investment Summit 2024 represents a pivotal opportunity to rewrite this narrative by converting commitments into tangible outcomes, bolstering the state’s economic growth and global standing.

‘Last Ashvamedha Yagya on Planet Earth was organised by Jaipur King’. Know more on Pink City via ‘Jaipur Ri Baat’

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Jaipur Foundation Day was celebrated with a special talk show titled Jaipur Ri Baat, held according to the traditional Hindu calendar. The event shed light on the rich history of the Pink City, including a notable historical highlight: the last Ashvamedha Yagya on Earth was performed by Jaipur’s king during the city’s establishment.

The event, organised by the Think Group You Think, took place at the Heritage Museum in Kishanpole Bazaar. The chief guests included renowned blue pottery craftsman Gopal Saini and historian Siya Sharan Lashkari. The programme began with a welcome address by You Think member Sharad Agarwal, followed by a ceremonial lamp lighting. The talk show was moderated by Vinish Agarwal.

Highlights of the Event

Blue Pottery and Jaipur’s Artistry


Gopal Saini discussed the evolution of pottery, tracing its roots back to the dawn of civilization. He highlighted Jaipur’s famed blue pottery, made from silica and influenced by Persian designs, which gained prominence under the patronage of Sawai Ram Singh II. The Maharaja systematically organised artisans into areas like Thatharon Ka Rasta, Meenakar Ka Rasta, and Maniyar Ka Rasta. This fostered a thriving culture of craftsmanship in Jaipur.

Historical Insights by Siya Sharan Lashkari

Jaipur was also a center of devotion, with Maharajas rescuing sacred idols from Mathura and Vrindavan during Mughal invasions and establishing temples in Jaipur. Lashkari noted Jaipur’s early leadership in education and civic planning, including the creation of ponds every few streets and strict laws to conserve water.

Talking about civic and administrative duties, he said that Dravyavati and the canal originating from it were the main sources of drinking water in Jaipur. Due to negligence, it turned into Amani Shah’s drain. In the old city, ponds were made for every two roads. There was a provision of strict punishment for wasting water in any way.

Architectural and Cultural Marvels
The gates of Jaipur’s ramparts hold many untold stories. For instance, Sanganeri Gate was originally named Shivpol. The Maharajas also diplomatically engaged with the Mughals to protect their culture and religion. Lashkari emphasized Jaipur’s transition into modern times, highlighting Johri Bazaar as the largest gemstone market, MI Road as a hub of commerce, and the city’s leadership in IT, handicrafts, and tourism. Jaipur is unique for hosting Lion, Tiger, and Leopard Safaris, along with India’s largest birding festival at Mansagar Lake.

Exhibition and Audience Interaction

The programme concluded with an interactive Q&A session, where the experts answered audience questions. An exhibition showcased rare artifacts preserved by Siya Sharan Lashkari, including vintage bags, textbooks, handmade memorabilia, and Jaipur royal family items.

Jaipur Ri Baat celebrated the city’s heritage, blending historical and modern narratives that continue to shape the vibrant legacy of the Pink City.