July 2024, Goa: Located in Candolim, Aguad Port & Jail Complex has experienced a spectacular metamorphosis into a vibrant historical and culture centre, emerging as a clear venue winner to spend a day at, especially during the monsoons.

The premises play host to an array of art and culture exhibits, some housed within erstwhile jail cells, that comprehensively capture Goa’s history. Reached through a distinctive shoreline and pier, (weather permitting) Aguad is a fusion of modern and historical elements, such as a state-of-the-art digital museum, the Aguad Interactive Museum (AIM) that comprehensively captures stories of Goa – the land and the people. There are also three curated exhibitions on display at Aguad – ‘Indian Fashion, Timeless Elegance’ – which celebrates intricate craftsmanship, ‘Sahita Chitravali’, where the worlds of literature and art blend, and ‘Kamal’ – which connects visitors with India’s culturally versatile flower, the lotus.

In what was once the kaal kothri of the jail complex now stands a plush documentary screening theatre, the immersive Aguad Cinema, that runs films on the forts of Goa and the freedom struggle daily. For those interested in a deep-dive into history, there are heritage walks conducted daily (weather permitting) through the complex.

There is no shortage of events either, at this versatile venue. From jazz festivals and fetes, to art exhibitions and fashion shows, the picturesque setting of the iconic Port & Jail Complex has been abuzz with a plethora of events, especially in the months leading up to Christmas. Locals and tourists alike get a novel experience each time they visit Aguad. There are also varied workshops, from learning Warli and rock art, to self-development ones, that are hosted at Aguad during the monsoons.

Over and above the museum and exhibits, Aguad has several dining options to choose from, from coffee shops to bistros. All in all, the venue serves as a one-stop shop for all creative expressions, with their gates open daily from 10:00 AM up to 8:00 PM, allowing you to spend the better part of your day there while giving you a cultural experience unlike any other.

ABOUT AGUAD –

Located in Candolim, Goa is Aguad at the base of Sinquerim Hill, a 400-year-old Portuguese Jail Complex with a state-of-the-art museum, the Aguad Interactive Museum (AIM), a unique showcase of Goa’s rich cultural heritage. Aguad, a contemporary hub from time to time hosts historic and cultural exhibits. Aguad is home to a plethora of F&B joints to suit every palate and pocket. Restaurants like Black Sheep Bistro, Motley Brew, Namaste Chai and D-Sailor with expansive views of Mandovi Bay and the Arabian Sea have their doors opened to welcome folks to the refurbished contemporary hub.

Recently,Mahavir International “Launch of Golden Jubilee Celebration”took place in Delhi.
“Over the past 49 years, NGO has been dedicated to “प्राणिमात्र की सेवा” with a moto “सबको प्यार, सबकी सेवा. NGO has impacted the lives of millions of individuals, provided services in the field of Health, Education. Skill Development, Environment, Women hygiene and women empowerment and received appreciations from all corners. These successes are a testament to the collective efforts of of their team, partners, and supporters.”

Indeed, it is a great achievement for any democratic NGO to be in the service of humanity for 50 years.
As we look to the future,their vision is even more ambitious. To fulfil the same, we need to reorient this organization towards MISRI i.e. Mindfulness, Innovation, Sustainable, Replicable and Impactful.

The event was graced by the presence of Vir CA Anil Jain
(International President ), Vir Ashok Goyal( International Secretary ), Vir Shanti K Jain( IPP) Vira Sunita Jain(Zone Champion NZ-1)& Vir Sudhir Jain(GeneralInternational Treasurer).

President Anil Jain, Shared “ In future we have organised a discussion about how future of Social Sector will look like, this kind of discussion has never been organised before by any other organisation. “

A Celebration of Literature, Culture, and Art

Thimphu, Bhutan: — In the heart of the Himalayas lies Bhutan, a land celebrated for its breathtaking landscapes, rich culture, and flourishing literary and artistic heritage. Leading this cultural renaissance is Drukyul’s Literature and Arts Festival (DLAF), an annual celebration that attracts literary and art enthusiasts from around the globe. The 13th edition of the festival, under the patronage of Her Majestythe Queen Mother, Gyalyum Ashi Dorji Wangmo Wangchuck, is set to unfold from August 3rd to 5th, transforming Thimphu into a vibrant tapestry of storytelling and artistic expression.

Embracing the Theme of “Mindfulness”
Inspired by the profound vision of His Majesty the King of Bhutan, as articulated in the 116th National Day. Address in December 2023, DLAF 2024 embraces the transformative theme of “Mindfulness.” Steeped in Bhutanese values of compassion, harmony, and self-awareness, this heme serves as the guiding star for the festival’s rich array of programs. Participants will delve into the depths of the human experience,
uncovering pathways to inner peace, collective well-being, and profound personal transformation.
A Global Stage for Literary and Artistic Excellence DLAF proudly stands as the crowning jewel of Bhutan Echoes, a visionary initiative devoted to nurturing
literature, culture, and the arts within this serene kingdom. Through meticulously curated events, Bhutan
Echoes champions the preservation and celebration of Bhutan’s cultural heritage and artistic expression, ensuring that the spirit of creativity continues to thrive in this magical land.
Thought-Provoking Sessions with Celebrated Guests The festival masterfully weaves together the literary and artistic talents of Bhutan with esteemed voices from around the world. This year’s lineup features:
● Shashi Tharoor, esteemeed writer and politician
● Anton Hur, Korean author and translator shortlisted for the 2022 International Booker Prize.
● Ashwin Sanghi, writer and one of India’s best-selling English fiction authors

Attendees at DLAF 2024 will be immersed in thought-provoking panel discussions, immersive workshops, and captivating book readings, offering a feast of intellectual and artistic delights.
Previous Speakers The festival has welcomed distinguished speakers such as Ruskin Bond, Pico Iyer, Vikas Swarup, Markus Zusak, Padma Lakshmi, Vikram Seth, Kabir Bedi, Kunzang Choden, and Pawo Choyning Dorji. DLAF highlights Bhutanese culture and fosters dialogue that transcends boundaries, enriching the global literary and artistic community.
Invitation from the Royal Patron

In anticipation of the festival, Her Majesty the Queen Mother, Gyalyum Ashi Dorji Wangmo Wangchuck, the esteemed Royal Patron of Bhutan Echoes, shares her profound insight: “Embrace the beauty ofliterature and revel in the essence of life itself, for literature is the very soul that breathes life into our existence. Experience this profound connection as Bhutan Echoes captivates the hearts of readers and enthusiasts alike. Join us from August 3rd to 5th 2024 in Thimphu, where the magic of words will transport you to new realms of imagination.”
A Testament to Bhutan’s Commitment to Gross National Happiness Drukyul’s Literature and Arts Festival stands as a testament to Bhutan’s profound commitment to Gross
National Happiness (GNH), the nation’s holistic approach to development and well-being. This ethos permeates every facet of the festival, reflecting Bhutan’s unwavering dedication to the happiness and flourishing of its people. Join us to Celebrate a Tapestry of Art and Creativity!
Bhutan Echoes invites you to immerse yourself in the enchanting world of Drukyul’s Literature and Arts Festival. Experience the magic of storytelling amidst Bhutan’s breathtaking scenery, and witness firsthand how literature transcends borders, uniting hearts and minds. Whether you are a literary aficionado, an avid traveler, or simply curious to uncover Bhutan’s hidden gems, DLAF 2024 promises an unforgettable journey that will leave you inspired, enlightened, and yearning for more.
Festival Dates: 3rd – 5th August 2024
Festival Address

• Royal University of Bhutan, Convention Auditorium, Thimphu, Bhutan

About Bhutan Echoes:

Bhutan Echoes is a not-for-profit organization that coordinates and produces events to promote literature, culture, and art in Bhutan, culminating in Drukyul’s Literature and Arts Festival, an annual international literary festival held in Bhutan. Her Majesty the Queen Mother of Bhutan, Gyalyum Ashi Dorji Wangmo Wangchuck, is the Patron of Bhutan Echoes: Drukyul’s Literature and Arts Festival. The festival is an independently organized not-for-profit event that is free and open to all.
Festival Directors

Sonam Wangmo Drukpa-Jhalani
Sonam Wangmo Dukpa-Jhalani is a writer and supporter of literature and the arts. She has an
MFA in Creative Writing from Boston University and an MA in International Development from the University of Denver in Colorado. She is currently the editor-in-chief of Yeewong magazine.

1. Kelly Dorji
   Kelly Dorji (born Kalden Sonam Dorji) is an actor and artist from Bhutan. He is also the author
   and illustrator of ‘The Hidden Rainbow’, which is an adult coloring book published by Penguin in
   2019.
2. Tshering Tashi
   Tshering Tashi is a writer known for his works in the field of creative nonfiction. In the last two
   decades, he has authored numerous books on Bhutan and has made the country’s rich history
   and diverse culture interesting, accessible, and engaging for the youth.