Past EventsKolkata

The LSG session titled Awaken the Leader in You was held on Thursday, 5 February 2026, at Windsor Hall, Kenilworth Hotel. The programme featured Jaya Row, a distinguished scholar of Indian philosophy and Vedanta, and unfolded as a deeply reflective and intellectually engaging experience.

The session was preceded by an address by Richa Agarwal, who emphasised that leadership originated not in authority or position but within the inner realm of awareness, clarity and conscious choice. She highlighted that the morning was intended not as a forum for instruction, but as an opportunity for reflection and inward recognition of one’s own potential to lead with awareness and integrity.

Jaya Row’s discourse drew upon the principles of the Bhagavad Gita and Vedanta, weaving philosophical insights with contemporary examples and narrative illustrations. She spoke of perfection as an inherent human potential, accessible only when one moved beyond ego and narrow self-interest. Through references to cinema, literature and lived experience, she underscored that the true obstacle to excellence lay not in circumstance but in the mind’s own limitations. She observed that modern society suffered less from material deprivation and more from emotional isolation, and stressed the importance of cultivating connection beyond immediate circles of affection.

A recurring theme of the session was selflessness as the foundation of leadership. Jaya Row spoke against entitlement and emphasised the dignity of service, urging individuals to value effort at every level and to recognise the ethical bond between giving and receiving. Through narratives of figures such as Tribhuvandas Patel, Morarji Desai and Viktor Frankl, she illustrated that purpose arose not from personal gain but from commitment to higher values and collective well-being. She further cautioned against compromising moral responsibility, advocating instead for principled action, even where personal loss might be involved.

The discourse also addressed the necessity of knowledge, character and discipline in leadership. Jaya Row stressed that ignorance could never be a substitute for authority and that leadership demanded an unwavering commitment to truth, punctuality, self-regulation and ethical conduct. She spoke of swadharma as the recognition of one’s innate abilities and responsibilities, citing contemporary examples to demonstrate the courage required to pursue one’s authentic path. Emotions, she explained, required guidance by intellect, as unexamined desire, anger and greed distorted judgement and weakened relationships. Particular attention was drawn to the challenges of self-control in the present generation, especially in the context of digital excess and distraction.

The session concluded with reflections on selfless action as a path to inner fulfilment, where service was not merely social duty but spiritual discipline. She urged participants to free themselves from possessiveness and to act with a consciousness larger than personal ambition, linking leadership to compassion, environmental responsibility and devotion. The Vote of Thanks was delivered by Enu Bala, who expressed gratitude to the speaker and acknowledged the depth and resonance of the session.

The programme succeeded in offering a contemplative and morally grounded understanding of leadership, leaving participants with a renewed sense of purpose, introspection and responsibility towards both self and society.

The Ladies Study Group’s session I Believe unfolded as a powerful and deeply human conversation on belief systems, identity, and the quiet negotiations women make every day with society, family, and themselves.

In her opening address, President Richa Agarwal invited the audience to reflect on the weight of the phrase “I believe”—how beliefs shape choices, boundaries, and the lives we build when no one is watching. She welcomed National Award-winning actress Shefali Shah and moderator Rishika Das Roy, setting the tone for an afternoon of honest dialogue rather than performance.

Shefali Shah spoke about how belief systems are constantly reshaped through lived experience—an ongoing exchange between compromise and conditioning. She explored the human need for validation and how society hesitates to offer it freely, even though appreciation and acknowledgment are essential to emotional well-being. The pressure to be “right,” “good,” and “appropriate,” she noted, often distances women from their own desires and sense of self.

Touching upon gender roles, she reflected on how upbringing and socio-economic conditioning instil ideas of what one “deserves,” often limiting women’s expectations of life. Speaking about Delhi Crime, she described the role of Vartika Chaturvedi as deeply personal and emotionally consuming, acknowledging how certain projects leave lasting imprints on the actor. On women’s safety, she was uncompromising—calling it a cumulative socio-cultural failure that begins at home and is reinforced by weak legal deterrence. She spoke firmly against rape, marital rape, and systemic disrespect towards women, advocating stricter laws and morally accountable parenting.

On mental health, Shefali shared that while performing intense roles, she does not protect herself from vulnerability—she embraces it. She emphasised that seeking psychiatric help should be as normal as visiting any other doctor and that not all problems can be self-solved. Her reflections on motherhood revealed a constant tension between praise and guilt, highlighting how society invisibly comments on what mothers “didn’t do” even while celebrating what they did.

Through the segment *Two Minutes of Truth*, she responded candidly to statements on resilience, safety, identity, and storytelling, underlining that tolerance of injustice is not bravery and that the hardest story to tell is often one’s own. She spoke of choosing battles wisely, setting non-negotiable boundaries around personal freedom, and refusing to apologise for who she fundamentally is or for the actions of others.

Art, she noted, cannot single-handedly reform society and should not be burdened with moral policing. Her role in Laxmi reminded audiences that actors are vessels of stories, not embodiments of them, and that labelling and oversimplification harm meaningful discourse. Compassion, she stressed, should not be rationed by the magnitude of an issue.

As the session drew to a close, her final reflections felt like quiet declarations. She spoke about the urgency of women releasing themselves from self-blame, of engaging more honestly with what feminism truly means, and of stepping away from narratives that cast women only as victims. She left the audience with a simple but powerful truth: the bravest act is often to stand firmly in one’s own corner.

Witty, honest, and fiercely compassionate, Shefali Shah’s reflections transformed I Believe into more than a conversation—it became a mirror to society and a quiet call to reclaim one’s voice, freedom, and self-worth. The vote of thanks was delivered by Enu Bala, concluding an evening that left the audience with renewed courage to question their beliefs and hold their truths more boldly.

The Hampi Tour, held from 18th to 21st January, was a thoughtfully curated journey that brought together heritage, culture, industry, sport and community engagement in a seamless and enriching manner. Members travelled via Bengaluru and reached their destination by charter flight, with the Hyatt Hotel serving as the base for the duration of the programme.

The itinerary was designed to offer both depth and diversity. Visits to the Inspire Institute of Sport provided valuable insights into high-performance training, sports science, rehabilitation and the role of CSR in nurturing future athletes. At the Arts Lab, members explored indigo as a medium, tracing its historical, cultural and contemporary significance through interactive sessions and installations. An extensive visit to the JSW Vijayanagar Works offered a comprehensive understanding of steel production at India’s largest single-location plant, along with exposure to sustainability initiatives, innovation and the impactful work of the JSW Foundation, particularly in the areas of women’s empowerment and inclusive education.

Cultural explorations formed a central part of the experience, with guided visits to Hampi’s UNESCO World Heritage monuments including the Vittala Temple, Virupaksha Temple, Kishkindha, Chintamani Temple, the Royal Palace, Queen’s Bath and the Archaeological Museum. A traditional coracle ride on the Tungabhadra River allowed members to experience the landscape from a timeless perspective, while the performance of Hanumayana brought the epic narratives of the region vividly to life. A heritage-style lunch evoking the era of Krishnadevaraya added a distinctive experiential dimension to the programme.

Member feedback reflected overwhelming appreciation for the tour. Participants described the experience as inspiring, immersive and meticulously organised, praising the attention to detail, warmth and care with which every aspect was executed. Many noted that the itinerary enabled them to truly understand and feel Hampi within a short span, while also gaining meaningful exposure to contemporary excellence through JSW’s facilities and CSR initiatives. The coracle ride, heritage sites, curated meals and opportunities for learning were frequently cited as highlights. Several members also remarked on the friendships formed and the strong sense of community fostered during the journey.

Overall, the Hampi Tour stood out as a rare convergence of heritage and progress, nature and industry, learning and leisure. It left participants enriched by history, inspired by innovation and united by shared experiences, making it a truly memorable and fulfilling journey.

The Ladies Study Group continued its Lead the Change conversation series with an insightful and engaging session titled The Weight Loss Revolution on 12 January 2026, bringing together members and guests for an evening that prioritised clarity over noise and science over trends. Held at the Lawns of the Kenilworth Hotel in Kolkata, the session reflected LSG’s belief that meaningful change begins with informed dialogue, particularly in matters of health and wellbeing at the start of a new year.

Welcoming the gathering, Ms Richa Agarwal, President of the Ladies Study Group, spoke about the urgency of cutting through the clutter that surrounds discussions on weight and wellness—subjects that are among the most widely discussed yet persistently misunderstood today. She reflected on how headlines, social media advice and quick-fix promises often blur the distinction between what is credible, safe and sustainable, underscoring the importance of grounding health-related choices in scientific understanding rather than transient trends. She expressed her privilege in welcoming Padma Bhushan awardee Dr Ambrish Mithal, a leading endocrinologist and diabetologist who has spent decades shaping India’s understanding of metabolic health through clinical excellence, research and public health leadership. She also acknowledged Dr Chandra Shekhar Mukherji for steering the discussion with a sharp medical lens and a thoughtful, pragmatic approach, encouraging the audience to listen attentively, reflect deeply and engage with the questions they carried.

The session featured Dr Ambrish Mithal, author of The Weight Loss Revolution and one of India’s foremost voices on obesity, diabetes and metabolic health, in conversation with Dr Chandra Shekhar Mukherji. Together, they led a nuanced discussion that moved beyond diets and quick fixes to examine the complex relationship between metabolism, modern lifestyles and long-term wellbeing, with particular emphasis on women’s health across different stages of life.

Central to the conversation was the need to reframe prevailing perceptions of weight and obesity. Dr Mithal emphasised that obesity is not merely the outcome of lifestyle choices or lack of willpower, but a metabolic and brain-related condition that calls for empathy and evidence-based understanding rather than blame. He spoke at length about the evolving landscape of weight-loss treatments, including the growing public discourse around medications such as Ozempic and other GLP-1–based therapies. He explained that these drugs represent a significant medical advancement rather than a passing trend, helping to reduce what he described as “food noise”, regulate appetite and address obesity at a physiological level when used responsibly and under appropriate medical supervision.

The discussion also examined the relevance and impact of these developments for women, including menopausal and post-menopausal women, for whom metabolic and hormonal changes often make weight management more complex. Dr Mithal underscored the importance of individualised, evidence-based approaches that combine medical interventions with lifestyle measures such as nutrition, physical activity and behavioural awareness to ensure sustainable, long-term outcomes. In conversation with Dr Mukherji, he addressed common misconceptions surrounding weight loss, cautioning against unrealistic expectations, sensational narratives and the indiscriminate use of treatments without proper medical guidance.

Adding an important social dimension to the medical discussion, Dr Mithal also spoke about the politics of body shaming and the ways in which society judges and responds to individuals living with obesity. He highlighted the psychological and social toll of such attitudes and called for greater sensitivity, empathy and responsibility in how weight and health are discussed in the public domain.

The evening concluded with an interactive exchange between the speakers and the audience, with members and guests engaging actively through questions and reflections. Participants left with a renewed perspective and a deeper, more practical understanding of health that extended beyond conventional narratives. The session reaffirmed the Ladies Study Group’s vision of facilitating conversations that truly matter, grounded in science, lived experience and thoughtful engagement, and its continued commitment to empowering members to make informed, responsible choices that support wellbeing at every stage of life.

Ladies Study Group (LSG) hosted the LSG Charitable Trust Annual Award Ceremony 2025 on 15 December 2025 at The LaLiT Great Eastern, Kolkata, bringing together members, guests and changemakers for an evening of reflection, recognition and dialogue.

Ms Richa Agarwal, President (2025-26) LSG, spoke about the need to move beyond intent and create meaningful spaces for learning from voices working on the ground. This philosophy was embodied in the presentation of the LSG Charitable Trust Annual Award 2025 to Destiny Foundation, Kolkata, for its dedicated work with survivors of human trafficking through its Educate–Employ–Empower model.

Chief Guests Ms Sanghamitra Ghosh, Principal Secretary, Women & Child Development and Social Welfare, Government of West Bengal, and Dr Anuradha Lohia, Chairperson, Manovikas Kendra, in their addresses highlighted the complex realities of trafficking, the need for systemic vigilance and the moral courage required for sustained social engagement.

The Ceremony was followed by a talk titled Against All Odds: Redefining Inequality and Inclusivity by transgender activist and human rights advocate Ms Shreegauri Sawant. She shared deeply personal reflections on identity, exclusion and motherhood, challenging the audience to re-examine societal notions of equality, acceptance and compassion.

The evening concluded with a collective reaffirmation of LSG’s commitment to social equity, education and inclusive change.

The Ladies Study Group (LSG), under the leadership of President Richa Agarwal, hosted yet another compelling edition of its flagship initiative Lead the Change on 14 November 2025 at the Auditorium of IMI. The afternoon brought together members, guests, and thought leaders for an insightful conversation with Padma Shri Arundhati Bhattacharya, President & CEO, Salesforce South Asia, and the first woman Chairperson in the 200-year history of the State Bank of India (SBI). She was in conversation with Vivek Bajaj, noted entrepreneur and educator whose knowledge platforms have shaped financial learning for millions.

Opening Address

Richa Agarwal set the tone with a warm and thoughtful welcome, describing the audience as “a room full of curious minds, constantly looking to learn and grow.” In her address, she highlighted Mrs. Bhattacharya’s extraordinary journey across banking and technology — a journey defined by courage, reinvention, and the ability to stay relevant through changing times. She noted how Mrs. Bhattacharya has been at the centre of some of India’s most critical financial transitions—from digitisation to demonetisation—demonstrating leadership rooted equally in adaptability and grace.

Conversation Highlights

The conversation between Vivek Bajaj and Arundhati Bhattacharya unfolded as a rich tapestry of personal insight, lived experience, and pragmatic wisdom.

A recurring theme was change — not as an external force alone, but as something that must be embraced internally.

Mrs. Bhattacharya emphasised that change comes from within and that questioning, introspection, and willingness to evolve are central to creating impact. While the banking sector has often been weighed down by crisis, cleanup, and regulatory pressures, she reminded the audience that “on the other side, creation also happens”—notably the digitisation of banking, which reshaped customer experience and opened new possibilities.

She spoke candidly about the many new perspectives that emerged during SBI’s transformation. “One story ending and another beginning is what the market sees and rewards,” she observed, reflecting on the delicate interplay of transitions and opportunities.

On Policy, Governance, and Responsibility

When asked whether the government frequently consults SBI on policy, she responded with honesty and humour. She recalled how the crew on Delhi flights recognised her due to her frequent visits for consultations, affirming that the government not only seeks the bank’s input but also offers ample space for suggestions. “That’s how a country changes,” she remarked — through dialogue, collaboration, and informed decision-making.

One of the most memorable moments came when she spoke about what truly impresses her in people. She shared an anecdote from her years of receiving countless letters at the bank. Some employees would return them stamped “Not for Me,” which, she said, would upset her. “The customer has written to the bank. If you don’t know whose problem it is, find out and solve it.”

For her, taking responsibility is the hallmark of character — not shirking it.

On Technology and the Future

Speaking about AI, she urged the audience not to fear it. “Don’t be scared of AI; lean into it,” she advised. Use it wisely, harness its benefits, understand its limitations — but don’t resist progress.

Managing Life: A Philosophy of Balance

Mrs. Bhattacharya offered profound life lessons rooted in balance — trusting oneself yet seeking help when needed, being grateful for support received, and extending the same support to others. She noted that this balance is essential for navigating both home and career.

She also illustrated resilience through stories — from the software engineer who shifted paths to open a palliative care centre launching this December, to a former banker who now runs a thriving online business selling hand-crafted crochet products. “If someone says they don’t have opportunities,” she said sharply, “it is their lack of imagination, not the absence of opportunity.”

On a Changing World

Reflecting on global shifts, she spoke of evolving feminist narratives, thawing geopolitical relationships, and transformations across healthcare, life sciences, politics, and gender. Adaptation, risk-taking, and creative reinvention, she said, are essential as the world continues to change at unprecedented speed.

Vote of Thanks

The session concluded with a Vote of Thanks delivered by Enu Bala, who summarised the afternoon’s spirit — one of inspiration, introspection, and renewed determination to lead change with purpose.

The Ladies Study Group (LSG) hosted a deeply engaging and insightful session with celebrated journalist and media personality Palki Sharma Upadhyay, in conversation with Arpit Agarwal, Founder and Managing Director of Imprimis Media on 6th November 2025 at The Hyatt Centric. The event, held under the leadership of Richa Agarwal, President of LSG, offered an afternoon of reflection, intelligence, and calm conviction — exploring questions of identity, leadership, truth, and the evolving nature of media and womanhood.

The session began with a short and heartwarming video celebrating the six-month journey of LSG, which filled the room with nostalgia and pride. It was followed by Richa Agarwal’s opening address, a thoughtful and eloquent introduction that set the tone for the afternoon. She spoke about disruptors — people who challenge the accepted and redefine the norm — and introduced Palki Sharma as “a truth-teller in an age of noise,” a voice that commands attention through clarity rather than volume.

Richa Agarwal shared how she had first met Palki at CNN TV18’s She Shakti event in Delhi earlier this year, where their conversation on balancing ambition and purpose left a lasting impression. She reflected on Palki’s rare ability to combine depth with decisiveness and welcomed her as an inspiring force for women everywhere. She also introduced Arpit Agarwal, highlighting his three decades of experience in communications across India, Singapore, and Israel, and his sharp storytelling instincts as the author of R&AW Material.

A Dialogue of Depth and Clarity

The conversation that followed between Palki Sharma and Arpit Agarwal unfolded as an honest, intelligent, and at times deeply personal dialogue. Palki spoke about her life, identity, and self-awareness, sharing how she often ends her day in conversation with herself — reflecting on her choices, moments of difficulty, and areas for growth.

When asked about leadership and authority, she reflected on mentors who were strict yet just — individuals who guided her through firmness balanced with empathy. Drawing from her own experiences, she highlighted the transformative power of simple, caring gestures — how even concern for something as ordinary as one’s eating schedule can create lasting impact.

She also shared memories of her early years in Delhi, describing them as some of her most comforting and formative times, shaping her approach to work and relationships alike.

On Gen Z, Media, and the Question of Truth

When Arpit steered the conversation toward the Gen Z work ethic, Palki offered a nuanced and balanced perspective. She praised the generation for its spirit, curiosity, and courage to question. “They have the fire,” she remarked, “but it needs to be ignited by purpose — they must see meaning in the work they do.” She appreciated their willingness to challenge and be challenged, seeing this as a sign of evolving professional consciousness.

In discussing her television media experience, Palki delved into the challenges of balancing credibility with the pace of modern news. Responding to Arpit’s question about the accusation that “television chases speed over substance,” she reflected on the media’s dilemma between being first and being right. She emphasised how her own work seeks to uphold credibility, depth, and authentic storytelling despite the prevailing pressure for sensationalism.

Her critique of TRPs as an unreliable marker of quality was both sharp and thoughtful. She noted that the real issue lies not in the metric itself, but in viewers’ growing readiness to accept sensationalism over substance.

Palki also touched upon the global landscape of misinformation, offering examples from contemporary political events where headlines have amplified inaccuracies. She spoke about the moral and ethical boundaries journalists must draw, stating with characteristic wit that “one should never write a story they wouldn’t want to watch.”

Women, Power, and Authenticity

Palki’s reflections became particularly personal when she spoke about her mother and her child, acknowledging how these relationships keep her grounded and centred. She credited her mother as her greatest source of inspiration — a reminder of the strength that comes from rootedness and empathy.

In one of the most resonant moments of the afternoon, she spoke about the importance of women supporting women, and the urgent need for more women in leadership positions who understand the practical challenges women face in balancing professional and personal expectations. She underscored that true empowerment comes not from imitation, but from mutual understanding and solidarity.

Palki concluded with reflections on authenticity, accuracy, and personal ethics, exploring how professionals must decide whether to endorse or step away from stories that conflict with their values.

Closing Moments

The session drew to a close with a warm Vote of Thanks by Enu Bala, who acknowledged the depth, candour, and grace that defined the afternoon. Members of the audience resonated with Palki’s thoughtful approach, her ability to weave together global insight and personal truth, and her calm yet commanding presence that spoke directly to the essence of leadership and womanhood.

The event stood as a reminder of why LSG continues to remain a vital space for dialogue, reflection, and inspiration, where voices like Palki Sharma’s not only inform but also transform perspectives.

The Ladies Study Group hosted an inspiring and thought-provoking session titled Design Your Destiny: Manifesting Abundance and Success with internationally acclaimed Life Coach, Hypnotherapist, and Relationship Expert Kavyal Seddani. The event was graced by an enthusiastic gathering of members eager to explore the art of creating abundance, purpose, and self-belief.

In her opening remarks, Richa Agarwal, President of Ladies Study Group, welcomed the audience and introduced Kavyal Seddani as one of the torchbearers in the field of emotional and spiritual wellbeing. She highlighted Seddani’s vast experience of over 17 years, her international recognition, and her unique blend of therapeutic and spiritual practices that have transformed countless lives. Emphasising the theme of self-awareness and inner energy, Richa Agarwal invited everyone to embark on a journey of self-discovery and manifestation.

Kavyal Seddani began her talk by reflecting on her own journey - from a troubled teenager with humble beginnings to a globally recognised voice in life coaching. She shared candid anecdotes about her early struggles, including living for a year in a store room, which, she said, taught her the real value of money and resilience.

Drawing from her life experiences, Seddani spoke about the power of being a “jack of all trades”. She celebrated multitasking and multi-managing as powerful tools for achieving one’s dreams, especially for women who naturally juggle multiple roles. “If you are a jack of all, you’re already closer to your dream than if you were a master of one,” she asserted, encouraging women to take pride in their multifaceted lives.

Touching upon societal attitudes toward therapy, Seddani discussed how she confronted the stereotype that therapy merely profits from people’s problems. She invited the audience to reframe such perceptions and embrace mental health conversations with openness.

A recurring theme in her talk was the idea of ordinariness as a route to extraordinariness. “To be as ordinary as possible is to be extraordinary,” she said, reminding everyone that greatness often grows quietly from simplicity and perseverance.

She also spoke about the low expectations often placed on women and how that, paradoxically, could serve as a hidden advantage - a space that allows for mistakes, experimentation, and learning. “Overachievers aren’t allowed to fail,” she remarked, urging women to reclaim their right to imperfection.

In a deeply reflective exercise, Seddani invited the audience to write down their vision of an “extraordinary life.” She guided participants to define abundance as “the ability to do what you want, when and how you want to do it.” Using a vivid metaphor, she compared life to a car, cautioning against spending all one’s time collecting fuel (resources) without ever going for the drive (living fully).

She challenged everyone to question what they truly seek — money or freedom — and to manifest their desires with clarity and intention. “If something comes to you and you believe you don’t deserve it, it will not stay,” she reminded the group.

Seddani captivated the audience with a story about her long-cherished wish to meet Oprah Winfrey, illustrating the power of specific manifestation. Her persistence and faith eventually led her to attend Oprah’s show — a testament, she said, to how the universe listens when one asks with clarity and belief.

The session delved into identifying and unlearning internalised belief systems that often hold women back — from being accommodating in social settings to undervaluing themselves in personal and professional spaces. “Don’t measure your worth by how your insiders perceive you,” she said. “Measure it by how the world values you.”

She also introduced the concept of low and high vibrations, encouraging participants to stay in higher emotional frequencies through self-belief and purposeful engagement, rather than sinking into self-doubt or negativity.

The session concluded with a guided meditative and hypnotic visualisation, where participants were encouraged to envision living their dreams in the present moment. The powerful exercise was accompanied by the song “Aashayein” from the film Iqbal, creating a deeply emotional and transformative atmosphere.

The afternoon ended with a heartfelt Vote of Thanks by Enu Bala, followed by a warm and engaging high tea where members continued to reflect on the day’s insights.

Design Your Destiny was more than a motivational session - it was an immersive journey of introspection, energy alignment, and empowerment. Kavyal Seddani’s blend of candour, humour, and spiritual depth left the audience inspired to redefine success on their own terms and to manifest a life that truly reflects their dreams and inner worth.

On Tuesday, 16th September 2025, the Ladies Study Group (LSG) hosted Shakti at the Emami Siddhivinayak Temple, Kolkata — a magnificent celebration of divine strength and tradition. The evening featured a spellbinding presentation by Alokananda Roy and the Darpani Troupe, who took the audience on a choreographed journey through the five sacred days of Durga Puja. Each segment beautifully depicted the essence of the festival — blending music, dance, devotion, and rituals into an immersive experience that captured the heartbeat of Bengal’s greatest celebration.

The evening began with an inaugural address by Richa Agarwal, President of LSG (2025–26), who warmly welcomed members and guests. She reflected on her deep personal connect with the Emami Siddhivinayak Temple, and on Durga Puja as not just a festival, but a unifying force where devotion meets creativity and rituals meet festivity. She also invited members to actively participate in the Dhunuchi Naach and Sindoor Khela after the performance, accompanied by the vibrant rhythms of the Dhaak.

The temple itself was transformed into a breathtaking setting for the evening. Decorated in festive red and white, with intricate alpana designs, floral arrangements, and thematic lighting, the ambience radiated the sanctity and grandeur of Pujo. The audience, dressed in traditional attire, added to the visual spectacle, making the event a living tableau of Durga Puja’s spirit.

The programme concluded with a gracious vote of thanks by Enu Bala, who appreciated the infectious energy of the troupe and the enthusiastic participation of members. The celebration ended with high tea, as guests carried home not just memories of a performance but the collective spirit of Shakti — strength, tradition, and community.

The LSG session at CIMA Gallery on 5 September 2025 was a vibrant celebration of the theme Art in Life. The afternoon began with a warm address by Richa Agarwal, who welcomed the gathering with her reflections on how art is inseparable from life — giving it colour, rhythm, and depth — and acknowledged Mrs. Rakhi Sarkar for her vision in making this special session possible.

He spoke openly about his liberal take on sexuality as a queer man, emphasising the role of art in breaking conventions and embracing identity. Bobo also shared his sketchbook with the audience, narrating the stories behind each page and recalling the moments that had compelled him to capture them. He highlighted how he was taught to view the human body in its purest, objective form — citing the example of his first encounter with Titanic, which made him reflect on art’s ability to normalise nudity without sensationalism.

The conversation showcased Bobo’s unique approach where art, fashion, mythology, and queerness intersect, making his work a living dialogue on self-expression and freedom. His exchange with Moon Moon Sen brought out warmth, humour, and cultural depth, offering the audience an engaging glimpse into the artist’s journey.

The evening concluded on a delightful note with a High Tea organised by CIMA Gallery, giving members a chance to continue conversations in a relaxed and convivial setting.

The Ladies Study Group, under the leadership of President Richa Agarwal (2025–26), recently hosted The Grace of Ghoomar, a three-day workshop held from 19th to 21st August 2025 at EKYA, Queens Park. The workshop was facilitated by renowned choreographer Vishaka Saraf, who guided participants through the traditional beauty, elegance, and rhythm of Rajasthan’s iconic folk dance – Ghoomar.

The sessions were marked by an atmosphere of joy, laughter, and cultural immersion, as members enthusiastically learnt and celebrated the vibrant art form. Participants dressed in colourful festive Rajasthani attire, bringing alive the spirit of Rajasthan through dance, music, and shared camaraderie.

The culmination of the workshop took place on 22nd August 2025 at Advaita, the residence of Richa Agarwal, where participants presented a graceful Ghoomar performance. In her address, Richa Agarwal warmly thanked the participants for their enthusiasm and highlighted the therapeutic joy of dancing together. She expressed special gratitude to Vishaka Saraf. for her guidance and to all the members for embracing the experience wholeheartedly. The showcase was followed by a celebratory lunch, attended by members, families, and friends, making the afternoon truly festive and memorable.

The event concluded with a heartfelt Vote of Thanks delivered by Enu Bala, who acknowledged the collective efforts that made this celebration of culture and community a resounding success.

The Ladies Study Group, under the vibrant leadership of Richa Agarwal (2025–26), hosted an illuminating session titled Decoding Sanjay Garg: Unconventional Experiences Beyond Raw Mango at the Kolkata Centre for Creativity. Moderated by cultural entrepreneur Nandita Palchoudhuri, the conversation offered a deeply personal and engaging glimpse into the mind of one of India’s most celebrated and unconventional designers.

At the heart of the discussion lay questions of identity, authenticity, and creative responsibility. Sanjay Garg’s wit and candour made for a thought-provoking exchange as he challenged ideas of validation, the definition of ‘cool’, and the pressures of designing in a fragmented yet deeply interconnected India.

From anecdotes on the importance of knowing “where you are” before designing “for whom”, to the layered complexity of India’s fashion markets, Garg urged the audience to reflect on fashion not merely as consumption, but as anthropology. He questioned the hierarchies of beauty, cost, and taste — underlining that “what is expensive or ugly is subjective; what matters is whether I do justice to my craft.”

Nandita’s incisive questions steered the conversation to explore the intersection of design and accessibility, asking if the aspirational price points of Raw Mango hinder broader inclusivity. Sanjay acknowledged this tension, asserting that his primary responsibility is towards excellence in craft — a commitment that requires both integrity and rigour.

The dialogue extended beyond design into music, memory, and everyday culture. Sanjay shared how Raw Mango’s campaigns have consistently woven music into their narratives - from folk songs to Qawwalis - reinforcing the synergy between handloom and sound. His experimental celebration of the brand’s tenth anniversary through a unique music album featuring brass bowls, African beats, and elements like ‘churan’ delighted the audience.

Personal moments brought warmth to the exchange — from shared admiration for the film Abhimaan and actors like Jaya Bachchan and Tabu, to reflections on transplanting trees and making spice dips. Questions from the audience sparked further insights: from the naming of “Raw Mango” (inspired by the overlooked value of indigenous produce like Rajasthani capers) to his favourite mishti (Mishti Doi). He also affirmed that no weaving can happen without women — a nod to the unseen yet essential contribution of women in the weaving process.

In closing, Enu Bala extended heartfelt thanks to both Sanjay and Nandita for an inspiring dialogue, and acknowledged Kolkata Centre for Creativity for curating a space that celebrates the richness of handloom and conversation. Madhu Neotia felicitated the guest with a token of appreciation, marking a fitting end to an evening that was as insightful as it was unconventional.