October 2022

Empowering with Theatre

Theatre, an expression, an art form that has stirred revolutions, a confidence builder, it is an enabler of sorts for those who otherwise are quiet and introvert. I always knew the power of this art form but when I wrote a play on Fake News for children of a Municipal school in Dharavi, Mumbai it …

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The Purpose that Powers Women Television Correspondents

Women correspondents covering politics, conflicts and news events for television channels face daunting odds but are driven by the desire to make a difference. When stone-pelting began in north-east Delhi’s Maujpur area on February 23 this year, 26-year-old Sukirti Dwivedi was one of the first reporters – and the only woman – on location. As …

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A Few Good Women: The Glaring Gender Gap Among Indian Cinematographers

Only a fraction of cinematographers in Mumbai’s film industry are women – how does the skewed ratio play out in their career growth? One would think making films is a matter of skill, talent and aptitude, and not one’s gender. But when one’s gender dictates opportunity, it is perhaps no surprise that women are still …

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A Fact-Checker’s Life: Exposing Fake News and Communalism, Surviving Social Boycott Post author

As technology majors and media houses gear up to fight fake news, fact-checkers at the forefront face the social backlash and soul-crushing battle. By Shweta Bhandral In April 2018, Google News Initiative (GNI) held their first train-the-trainer fact-checking workshop in India with 35 journalists from across the country. Attending that four-day seminar at Google’s Delhi …

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“Hate Is a Subtle and Evil Virus, as Dangerous as Corona”: Author Annie Zaidi

Best-selling author Annie Zaidi on inspiration, personal choices, and her prescient novel about bigotry and radicalisation in today’s India By Shweta Bhandral A peaceful countenance, a crisp cotton sari and a pleasant smile as she greets friends and guests at her book-reading session. It wasn’t the first time I was meeting Annie Zaidi but the …

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“There Is Polarisation, Intolerance… It’s the Best Time for Humour” – Satirist Naomi Datta

Former broadcast journalist Naomi Datta used her snarky, irreverent online persona to launch her own brand of satire. By Shweta Bhandral Radiant smile, quick wit and her one-liners on everything from politics to Bollywood – these are what one remembers after meeting Naomi Datta, author of How to Be a Likeable Bigot – A Handy Guide …

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