Bhawanipatna (Odisha) [India], April 21: Observing the World Art Day, India’s largest producer of aluminium – Vedanta – celebrated the rich artistic heritage of Odisha by organising a cultural event at Eklavya Model Residential School at Thuamul Rampur in tribal-dominated Kalahandi district.

Aimed at fostering creativity and encouraging traditional art among the school students, such an initiative was undertaken by Vedanta’s Sijimali Bauxite team.

The highlight of the event was a hands-on workshop on Saura art, one of the oldest tribal art forms of Odisha, conducted by the faculty members of Kalahandi College of Art and Research.

While the event served as a platform to nurture young talent as well as instill a sense of pride and awareness about local art forms, more than 120 participating students displayed their latent talents on the origin, symbolism and techniques of Saura art by deepening their understanding of the region’s indigenous culture and its relevance in today’s world.

The students showcased immense enthusiasm and creativity by bringing to life vibrant depictions of folklore and daily life through their art.

Appreciating the effort, Satya Prakash Satya, Headmaster, Eklavya Model Residential School expressed, “We are grateful to Vedanta Aluminium for organizing such a meaningful event that connects our students with their cultural roots. The Saura art workshop not only enriched their artistic skills, but also strengthened their appreciation for Odisha’s tribal heritage. This initiative will go a long way in nurturing creativity and cultural pride.”

Speaking about the initiative, Vedanta Bauxite Mines Chief Operating Officer (CEO) Nitin Tiwari said, “Our community development efforts are deeply rooted in preserving and promoting the cultural heritage of the regions we operate in. Through events like these, we aim to inspire the younger generation to embrace their roots while exploring their creative potential.”

“We’ll continue to work closely with the local communities to drive sustainable development through initiatives in education, health, livelihood, infrastructure development, sports and cultural preservation,” averred the CEO.

Notably, Vedanta’s social impact initiatives rooted in the ethos of care and partnership have touched the lives of 1.5 lakh people across 67 villages of Kalahandi district and 5 lakh people across Odisha.

Jaipur. “Khushiyon Ki Gaadi” launched by Abhyutthanam Welfare Foundation Jaipur was flagged off from SMS Stadium by Dr. Neeraj K Pawan I.A.S., Secretary, Sports and Youth Affairs Department, Government of Rajasthan and Mr. Vimal Jain, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) of AU Small Finance Bank.

Abhyutthanam Director Riddhi Chandrawat said that “Khushiyon Ki Gaadi” is being run in various areas of Jaipur city with the aim of taking art and sports to the children of economically weaker sections, along with raising awareness about the Right to Education Act and environmental protection among the general public through street plays. Under this campaign, art kits, sports material, medical health kits, sanitary napkins etc. are being distributed to children. This campaign will run till 3rd January and this chariot will come to an end at the Nanhe Kalakar Festival being organized by the organization on 4-5th January.

Today, on the first day, Khushiyon Ki Gaadi reached Kathputli Nagar. Where, children away from the mainstream were made aware about the right to education, cleanliness and art and culture of Rajasthan. This vehicle will pass through various areas of Jaipur. During this, Spot the Khushiyon Ki Gaadi competition is also being organized. One can participate in the said competition by scanning the QR code given on the vehicle.

During the said program, Aabhyuthanam’s President Advocate Pranjal Singh, Director Advocate Riddhi Chandrawat, Director Anuj Chandak, Piyush Jain, Aman Jhanwar, Aditi Jhanwar, Manish Dhillon, Anish Shekhar, Gaurav Sehgal, Uddhav Bansal, Dr. Ira, Khushi Maheshwari, Kushagra Singh, Advocate Avik Rajoria, Advocate Ishita, Saloni Jain, Yogita, Manoj, Pavitra, Advocate Raunak Verma, Mansi, Dimple, Tanya, Diksha, Daivik, Nitesh, Govind, Lakhan, Himanshi etc. were present.

Little Artist Festival:

Under the joint aegis of AU Foundation, Rajasthan Tourism Department, Rajasthan Youth Board, Jawahar Kala Kendra and Aabhyuthanam, the Little Artist Festival is being organized on 4-5 January at Shilp Gram, Jawahar Kala Kendra. Nanhe Kalakar is a unique initiative to connect children and youth with the art and culture of Rajasthan. Nanhe Kalakar is also a unique fund raising festival.

Main sponsors of Nanhe Kalakar Festival:

AU Foundation, Rajasthan Tourism, F.H.T.R., Jawahar Kala Kendra, 3S Securities, Bikaji, Wonder Cement, Rajasthan Royals and Rajasthan Royals Foundation, Lotus, Zeal, Syntex Banswara, Sachcha Sona, iBoostup, Purnima Group, Soft Touch, C.K. Birla Hospital, Surya Hospital etc.

Aim of Nanhe Kalakar Festival:

To promote and reach the art and culture of Rajasthan to the masses.

The amount collected from the Nanhe Kalakar Festival through entry fee, food, stage artists, festival bazaar will be used for forest plantation under the organization’s campaign Aranya Ropan.

Main attractions of Nanhe Kalakar Festival:

Theatre:

For the past one month, around twenty five young children of Manganiyar community are being trained in Rajasthani folk music under the joint aegis and guidance of Abhutthanam Welfare Foundation and famous folk artist and Khadtal player Shri Devu Khan Manganiyar, whose special performance will be seen in Nanhe Kalakar Festival.

To offer sacrifice in this Maha Yagya of Nanhe Kalakar Festival, four different types of music bands including Indian Ocean, Rahgir, Neeraj Arya Kabir Cafe and Yugam Band will perform.

More than fifty folk artists of Rajasthan will perform various types of folk dances in Nanhe Kalakar Festival.

The entire amount of ticket sales by all the artists will be donated to the jungle plantation campaign of Abhutthanam Sanstha, Aranya Ropan Abhiyan.

Chaupal:

Respected and eminent people of the society are organizing a talk show on various topics in which the main speakers will be youth representatives Mr. Ravindra Bhati (Member of Legislative Assembly, Rajasthan Legislative Assembly), Dr. Neeraj Kumar Pawan (IAS), Mr. Anoop Bartaria (CMD World Trade Park), Dr. Ajay Data (MD Data Group of Industries), Mrs. Raghushree Poddar (Chairman, FICCI FLO Mahila Jaipur), RJ Karthik, famous poet and singer Raahgir, famous content creator Kabira (Devashish Gaur), Dr. Nishant Ojha (Certified Child Counselor) etc.

Artwork:

A gathering and workshop of various art works of Rajasthan will be organized in which Mandana Art, Blue Pottery, Block Making and Printing, Lac Bangles, Thathera Art, Puppet Making, Coat Weaving, Toy Making, Lippan Art, Crochet Making, Mehendi etc. arts will be taught to children and adults.

Food:

Popular food brands of Rajasthan and the world like Domino’s Pizza, Burger Farm, Baskin Robbins, Motu Ram Prasadam, Lotaram by Chaisa, Srirangam, Grills and Grillers, Chapas, Garden Cafe, Waffle Bite, Baozi Momos, Kani Ram Sweets by RMB, NBC, Pizza Bay, English Rasoi, Caked by Devyani, Sri Raghu Ram Dhaba etc. will set up their stalls. All food brands will donate a significant portion of their sales to the jungle plantation campaign of Abhutthanam Sanstha, Aranya Rapan Abhiyaan.

Festival Bazaar:

Abhyutthanam and Labels Gone Wild will jointly provide a separate shopping area to around thirty different brands of different products. All the brands will donate a significant portion of their sales to the jungle plantation campaign of Abhyutthanam Sanstha, Aranya Ropan Abhiyaan.

Laughter and Fun:

Games and fun activities will also be organized for children and adults of all age groups at the Nanhe Kalakaar Festival.

Entry:

Children up to 12th standard will have free entry at the Nanhe Kalakaar Festival (ID card will be mandatory) and visitors of other age groups will get entry only after purchasing an entry ticket of Rs. 50 per day by visiting www.nanhekalakaar.com.

New Delhi [India] : In a transformative partnership set to redefine the pet care industry, Pets of Paradise (POP) and Waggy Zone have joined forces. This merger brings together two leading brands with a common goal: to improve pet parent education and provide top-quality pet food. By prioritizing empowerment through education and superior products, POP and Waggy Zone aim to strengthen the bond between pets and their families while decreasing abandonment rates.

Together, the merged entities plan to establish an integrated ecosystem where innovation meets pet wellness, delivering a more fulfilling experience for pet parents across India and beyond.

Building a Better World for Pets

Driven by a passion for animal welfare, both POP and Waggy Zone have long been dedicated to creating products that prioritize pet safety, health, and happiness. POP, a trusted leader in pet parenting and care, has earned a loyal customer base through its unwavering commitment to quality. Meanwhile, Waggy Zone, founded in 20fi9 by Darshankaur Khalsa, has made waves with its vegan, dairy-free pet ice creams, offering pet owners a fresh and innovative way to pamper their furry friends.

This merger is a natural progression of their shared mission to revolutionize pet care. By combining POP’s extensive range of wellness products with Waggy Zone’s trailblazing food innovations, the two brands will offer a comprehensive lineup that caters to the needs of modern pet parents.

Is there any benefit for Pet parents?

The recent collaboration between Pets of Paradise (POP) and Waggy Zone represents a major step in equipping pet parents with the tools and resources they need to build strong, lasting relationships with their pets. By providing expert advice, educational materials, and nutritious food options, this partnership seeks to create an informed and supportive community, ultimately reducing pet abandonment rates across India.

Key benefits for pet parents include:

1. Broader Product Selection: A wide array of offerings combining Waggy Zone’s expertise in nutrition with POP’s wellness solutions, addressing every aspect of pet care, from health to playtime.
2. Improved Accessibility: Expanded online and offline availability, making high-quality products accessible to pet owners in both urban and rural areas.
3. Enhanced Innovation: The introduction of advanced products, including interactive toys and innovative nutritional solutions, tailored to the changing needs of modern pet families.

This collaboration aims to establish a comprehensive ecosystem where education and wellness converge, ensuring every pet enjoys a healthier, happier life with their family.

Waggy Zone’s Unique Journey

Waggy Zone began with a simple yet powerful mission: to create safe and enjoyable treats for dogs. Known for its premixes for dairy-free, easy-to-make pet ice creams, the brand was inspired by founder Darshankaur Khalsa’s desire to provide healthier alternatives for her pets. Over time, this passion project grew into a recognized name in the pet food space, with a loyal following of pet parents who value innovative, cruelty-free treats.

Shared Vision and Values

At the heart of this partnership is a shared commitment to quality, safety, and sustainability. POP’s reputation for premium and affordable meals and Waggy Zone’s dedication to wholesome, ethical pet meals complement each other perfectly. Together, they aim to set new standards in ethical and innovative pet care and their aim to reduce pet abandonment.

Looking Ahead

The unified company intends to introduce initiatives focused on enhancing pet health and well-being. These efforts will include community programs and campaigns to educate pet parents on responsible and adequate pet care, as well as partnerships with veterinarians and pet care specialists. Additionally, significant investment in research and development will drive ongoing innovation and improvements in their product range.

A Bright Future for Pet Care

The merger of Pets of Paradise and Waggy Zone represents more than a business deal—it’s a step toward creating a brighter, healthier future for pets. By combining their strengths, the two brands are set to deliver unmatched value to pet parents while championing ethical practices in the pet care industry. Pet parents can look forward to a wealth of exciting, safe, and innovative products that celebrate the joy of having pets as family.

For more details, visit: https://www.petsofparadise.store/