Eastern Dance Contestants on Talents Day

Judged by: Mr. Kalyani Ganesh, Ms. Archana Balachandran and Ms. Supreet Ahluwalia.

Group 1

Japanese panache (Photo by: Kulsoom Ali)

Participants: Aishwarya, Aakanksha, Gloria, Poonam, Mita, Supriya, Kittu, Kate, Vidhi and Swetha.

Group 2

Ethnic afficionados (Photo by: Kulsoom Ali)

Participants: Sunny, Chintan, Lalit, Akshay, Prithish, Neha, Dimple, Mital, Pooja U. and Prachi.

Group 3

Devotees of the East (Photo by: Kulsoom Ali)

Participants: Anjali, Gurpreet, Krystal, Karthika, Sonam, Sneha, Nimi, Rishmeet, Farzana and Deepa.

Group 4

Feminine rhythms (Photo by: Kulsoom Ali)

Participants: Nilisha, Neelam, Himanshu, Astha, Surya and Vivina

Students collectively flaunt mind-blowing talent on Talents Day

~ Use what talents you possess; the woods would be very silent if no birds sang there except those that sang best. ~ HenryVan Dyke

Breathtaking performances by the students of Manipal University, Dubai, splendidly expressed the notion ‘Every human is born with an innate talent’ during the in-house annual event Talents Day, held on Saturday, 24th May 2008 at the Shaikh Rashid Auditorium, Dubai. Packed with stupefying enactments, the event witnessed a show of a wide array of talent radiating from the students.

A satirical skit presented by the foundation students. (Photo: Kulsoom Ali)

Setting off with performance by the Novocaine band and Margarita with Maria, a satirical skit by the foundation students, the audience was all set to revel in the hard-hitting competition during the show.

Ritesh, Roshini, Sneh and Mohit - The anchors who held the show together! (Photo: Kulsoom Ali)

The sprightly new look of Manipal University buses

The Manipal University - Dubai buses featuring Anil Kumble as part of the new look. (Pic by R. N. Shukul)

Wondering what the new look for the buses is all about? Why is Anil Kumble on it? Well look no further and read on, the Manipal University - Dubai Community Blog reveals the inside scoop.

Manipal University - Dubai in keeping with its strategy to offer quality education had Anil Kumble, brand ambassador of the Manipal Education Group announce in a highly publicized event the official launch of Engineering courses at the Manipal University - Dubai Campus.

Anil Kumble, Indian test cricket team captain and a qualified high ranking engineer was the perfect choice to promote the University's courses. The University’s vision is truly reflected with the cricketer’s academic and extra curricular activities which states ‘Learn from the leader today’.

One of the buses sporting the new look featuring Anil Kumble. (Pic By Joseph John Nalloor)

The Manipal University - Dubai Campus buses have begun featuring him on the bus exterior art work as seen in the pictures . We spoke to Ms. Javeria Pasha, Chair, Department of Fashion Technology, Manipal University, Dubai Campus, who introduced this new look for the buses. ‘Anil Kumble, apart from being our brand ambassador, is a national icon. Being a qualified professional himself, he is now promoting educational values among the youth with the new courses in Manipal University, Dubai.’

So are we going to see more of Mr Kumble around? ‘We are revising the look of the University’s website. Apart from the buses, Mr Kumble is being carried in the print advertisements for the University as well.’

Speaking to Mr Krishna Kumar, Manager, Facilities, Manipal University - Dubai, he was all praises for the new look concept and designing of the buses. ' So far, 10 buses are carrying the new look. Slowly, 20 more buses will be redecorated. The mileage so far - has been great. ' Howzzat!

(From Left to Right) Mr. Ahmed S.H., Mr. Ibrahim Khan, Mr. Krishna Kumar, Manager, Facilities, Manipal University - Dubai and Mr. Ravi, Transport Co-ordinator, Manipal University - Dubai with the 'new look' buses. (Pic by R. N. Shukul)

Manipal University Dubai Talents Day 2008

The Manipal University - Dubai Campus Talents day is happening tomorrow, Sat 24th May 2008.

Don't miss out on the power-packed performances!

Venue: Sheikh Rashid Auditorium - Indian High School, Dubai
Time: Show starts by 2.30pm

Friends and family are welcome.

Look Mommy, they can act!

SHOOFtv's hunt for a star drew to a close on 12th May, 2008. The talent hunt, held on 11th and 12th May, provided a platform for students to showcase their most creative side and many performers showed much promise. The auditions attracted a variety of talent from guitarists and singers to beat-boxers and dancers.

Students sign up for the SHOOFtv talent hunt. Photo: Karen Ann Monsy

The judges in discussion. From left: Belhul, Karen Monteiro, Supriya Dominica. Photo: Karen Ann Monsy

They were judged by Supriya Dominica, Karen Monteiro and Belhul. Each entrant was judged on the basis of talent, skill and confidence. The response to the talent hunt was quite positive. The first day saw around 18 participants while about 25 more registered on the second day.

One of the first SHOOFtv hopefuls performs for judges on Day one. Photo: Karen Ann Monsy

Speaking after the auditions, Supriya Dominica (one of the judges) said, "We saw a whole lot of talented people take part in these past two days. Some of them were really good and showed much potential to be a star. We found students who were great at singing, dancing, beat-boxing and even stand-up comedy!"

The talent hunt was started as an initiative by a group of SHOOF Troopers in the University, (namely, Karen M. John, Aakanksha Singh, Melissa Khan, Uzma Atcha and Ayesha Fahim) as part of a competition hosted by SHOOFtv. Posters were put up on every floor, prior to the dates, keeping all students informed. This event will be the last of a number of other initiatives undertaken by the team to win the intensive two-month competition - which incidentally, caters to students participating from other schools and universities as well. If nothing else, the turnout at the 'Look Mommy, they can act!" talent hunt alone proved that these guys sure have the talent for attracting talent!

Spectrum '08 ends in Spectacular Style

Spectrum '08, the media extravaganza organised by the Department of Media and Communications, saw a huge turnout on its second and final day - May 21st, 2008.

Day II of Spectrum consisted of a series of workshops on topics ranging from multimedia to radio presentation and branding to personality development.

Mr. Murtuza Zakir, Maya Academy of Advanced Cinematics, conducted the workshop on 'Multimedia, Animation and Special Effects'. The session gave students the opportunity to understand the reality behind the animation and special effects that are used in film and video content. Mr. Zakir ran through some popular designing softwares and compositing applications - Max and Combustion to name a few.

Mr. Zakir also demonstrated how to create a 3D object and techniques such as 'footstep animation' and 'motion capture', among other things. He also devoted a considerable amount of time to answering students' queries about job opportunities in the field of animation and graphic designing.

Mr. Murtuza Zakir shares his experience about animation and design softwares
- Photograph by Deepthi Unnikrishnan -

The workshop on 'Radio Presentation', by Mr. Sachin K., was devoted to the exploration of radio production and programming as well as a discussion on the various job opportunities that are available in the specialised field of radio. Radio production, programmme planning, radio events and music scheduling were some of the job avenues that were touched upon during this interactive session.

Advertisements, promos and scripting for radio were individually deliberated upon. News in radio and the multitude of jobs available in this sector were taken up as well. All in all, the 20-odd attendees at this workshop came out with a better idea about radio as a career choice.

Mr. Santosh Unnithan conducted a workshop dedicated entirely to 'Personality Development'. This interactive session gave the participants a better understanding of how best to carry themselves, build their confidence and enrich their personality.

The attendees engaged in the session wholeheartedly, in a bid to enhance their personalities and help them comunicate well with people.

The fourth workshop was conducted on 'Branding' by Mr. Sanjay Nair. Mr. Nair brought in various concepts like brand creation, brand presentation and the purpose behind branding, to the fore. These interactive sessions were both educative and interesting, providing the perfect platform for students to expose themselves to the reality of the media industry.

Said Melissa Khan, a 2nd year student of Media and Communications and a participant at the workshop on 'Multimedia, Animation and Special Effects', "I intend on taking up visual communication in my year of specialisation and thought this workshop would be extremely useful. The session was interactive and the clips shown were familiar to us, aiding us in understanding the concepts faster."

Most attendees at the workshops shared her sentiments. Almost everyone interviewed agreed that the workshops were interactive and conducted in a manner that was easy for a layperson to comprehend. Overall, they seemed extremely happy about the entire experience. These sessions were followed by lunch, after which the 'Year Book' was released by Mr. Santosh Unnithan and Dr. Firoz, Chair, Department of Media and Communications.

The much anticipated student year book is finally unveiled (from left to right): Mr. Sabir Haque, Dr. Firoz, Mr. Santosh Unnithan, Mr. Joseph John and Ms. H. S. Shubha

- Photograph by Deepthi Unnikrishnan -

In addition, there was an extremely vital session on 'Career Counselling'. Mr. Assis Cardos, Director - Creative Services; Mr. Murtuza Zakir, Maya Academy of Advanced Cinematics and Ms. Fokiya Akhtar, Adjunct Faculty, Television and Video Production, Manipal University - Dubai Campus, all came together to share some of their experiences and views on their respective fields - that is advertising, animation/graphics and television/film.

Mr. Assis Cardos explains the importance of a secure career to the balance of life

- Photograph by Deepthi Unnikrishnan -

Each of them gave tips on the best way to enter the industry. From writing resumes to interview preparation and personality to prior experience - each concept was discussed in great detail for the benefit of students wanting to get a break in this highly demanding industry. As proceedings for the day came to a close, the event was declared a grand success. Having thanked the sponsors and support team of the event, the organisers - students and faculty members from the Department of Media and Communications celebrated the success of an event handled solely by them.

Spectrum '08 truly reflected a myriad colours of talent and creativity
- Photograph by Deepthi Unnikrishnan -

Kudos to the entire Department of Media and Communications for putting up such a spectacular show!

Face of Asia - Steve McCurry's work on Display

Organized by George Eastman House, International Museum of Photography and Film, Face of Asia is an exhibition concentrating on Steve McCurry's extensive work from Asia held at the Sharjah Museum for Contemporary Arab Art from 7th May to 21st June, 2008.

Afghan Girl, Steve McCurry's most recognized photograph. (Photo Source: Sharjah Museum Website)

Steve McCurry is an American photojournalist best known for his photograph, 'Afghan Girl' (above) that originally appeared in National Geographic magazine, the extensive text of which will be displayed in the exhibition. The event will also showcase 100 of his photographs including images from India, Afghanistan, as well as recent work from Cambodia and Tibet.

For further details, please contact 06-5695050.
Also, visit http://www.sharjahmuseums.ae/Events.htm and http://www.sharjahmuseums.ae/ArtMuseum.htm.

Spectrum '08 gets off to a flying start!

After all the initial hype and anticipation, it was finally time for Spectrum '08 to hit the road. An event organised by the Department of Media and Communications, Spectrum is meant to act as a platform to showcase the work of students from the department as well as provide the students with an opportunity to interact with professionals from the media industry.

The event is being held over a period of two days, May 20th - May 21st 2008. It was thus inaugurated on May 20th, in a most special way, with a recitation from the Holy Quran by Mr. Ashfaq Ahmed.

This was followed by an official inauguration in the form of a welcome speech by Dr. Firoz, Chair, Department of Media and Communications. In his opening speech Dr. Firoz summed up the concept behind the event, saying, "Spectrum, apart from exhibiting the creative portfolio of the graduating class of 2008, provides a serious platform for student, academic and industry interaction."

With this idea in mind, the department has put up a brilliant display of their students' best works. Creative photographs, advertising campaigns, short video productions and written articles by the media students are all on view for visitors to enjoy. Spread across the ground and second floor of Manipal University's Dubai Campus, these stunning exhibits bear ample testimony to the abundant talent that prevails in the Department of Media and Communications.

Visitors enjoy an exhibit of photographs shot by media students

- Photograph by Mitalee Kurdekar -

Having looked at some of the exhibits, Mr. Vivek Joshi, Senior Lecturer, Department of Business Management, commented, "Spectrum '08 is a great event, especially because everybody has contibuted to it. It is a pleasure to be here." He was especially impressed with the posters on child abuse and racism, he added.

But that was not all. Day one of Spectrum was also marked by an interesting panel discussion on "Consumerism: A Trend in Contemporary Media". The distinguished set of panelists included Mr. Ron Kapadia, COO, City7; Mr. Syed Ahmad Hussaini, MD, Impact BBDO; Mr. Raju Nagrajan, Managing Editor, The World Magazine and Mr. Navin Kapoor, a Managament Consultant. Each panel member had five minutes to put forth his views on the subject, as a result of which a number of issues were brought to attention during the course of the dicusssion.

Mr. Hussaini raises a pertinent point

- Photograph by Deepthi Unnikrishnan -

These were then taken up at the time of cross-questioning of the panelists. The discussion had a moderator in Mr. R. N. Shukul, Senior Lecturer, Department of Media and Communications; while there were also two esteemed analysts in the form of Mr. Jacob John, Managing Director, SMTC Media Services and Dr. Firoz, Chair, Department of Media and Communications.

After deliberating over a considerable amount of fascinating perspectives on the subject, the panel then took questions from the audience members. By the end of the session, we ended up with more questions than answers on the subject - a rather conspicuous statement on the vastly intriguing nature of the topic of discussion.

This serious debate was then followed by lunch, after which there was an opportunity for students to learn about the finer nuances of television production. Mr. Rajeev Kheror, Head of Programming, ZEE TV, Middle East, conducted a seminar on 'Television Production: Planning and Programming'. Students looking to specialise in this fast-paced medium of communication had much to imbibe from this short, yet detailed session.

Mr. Kheror interacts with media students
- Photograph by Deepthi Unnikrishnan -

Mr. Kheror responded to queries about television that the audience members had posed, while at the same time offered tips on the best way to make a foray into the television industry.

The day ended on a high, with the promise of more to come on Day Two of Spectrum '08!

Programme Schedule for Spectrum '08

Spectrum '08 will be held from May 20th - May 21st 2008 at Manipal University's Dubai Campus.

The two-day media extravaganza is an initiative by the Department of Media and Communications to provide a platform for their students to interact with industry professionals as well as showcase their work to the world.

DAY I:

The inauguration for the event will take place at 9:30 am.

This will be followed by a panel discussion to kickstart the day's activities. The topic for the panel discussion will be "Consumerism: A Trend in Contemporary Media".

The panelists for this discussion include:

• Mr. Ron Kapadia, COO,CITY7


• Mr. Syed Ahmad Hussaini,MD, Impact BBDO


• Mr. Raju Nagrajan, Managing Editor, The World Magazine


• Mr. Navin Kapoor, Management Consultant

Analysts at the discussion will include:

• Mr. Jacob John, Managing Director, SMTC Media Services


• Dr. Md. Firoz, Chair, Department of Media and Communications, Manipal University, Dubai Campus
  

The second half of the day will be taken up by Seminars on:

• Television Production: Planning and Programming by Mr. Rajeev Kheror, Head of Programming, ZEE TV, Middle East


• Web and Multimedia Solutions by Mr. Prakash H, Director, Grass Media
  

DAY II:

There will be a series of Workshops held during the first half of the day:

• Personality Development by Mr. Santosh Unnithan


• Branding is not just a name by Mr. Sanjay Nair


• Multimedia, Animation and Special Effects by MAAC


• Radio Presentation by Mr. Sachin K., ARN/101.6
  

The second half of the day has been reserved for Career Counselling sessions by:

• Mr. Assis Cardos, Director, Creative Services


• Mr. Piyush Ghanatra, MBR, Dubai


• Mr. Puneet Agarwal, Maya Academy of Advanced Cinematics


• Ms. Fokiya Akhtar, Adjunct Faculty, Television and Video Production
  

Media Student's Big Break at Fashionova 2008

Among the cluster of Top Models at Fashionova 2008, we spotted a familiar face who, by her confidence and determination took the stage by storm blending into the modeling scene with the greatest ease.

Aishwarya Shivkumar ~ Photo: Afshan Ahmed

Meet Aishwarya Shivkumar; a 3rd year Media Student who until now could be seen only walking the corridors of MAHE but after this big break may be seen walking at renowned Fashion Shows as well. Pursuing a specialization in Visual Communication, Aishwarya is a lady of many talents. A complete go-getter she can sing, dance, paint, play the piano and is up for any challenge that comes her way. Modeling being a personal interest since childhood she graced many ads and corporate calendars as a child. A favorite on the local scene and college competitions, Fashionova 2008, a Fashion Show with some of the biggest models walking the ramp, happened by chance and just the night before.

A little about her experience at this grand event:

Afshan: A Fashion show where Top Models of the industry walk the ramp every year… how then did Fashionova 2008 happen to you?
Aishwarya: Two of the designers wanted to showcase an extra garment in their collection at Fashionova. Since all the models were flown down from India they needed someone to step in at the 11th hour. Thus I was approached and was more than willing to oblige.

A:You got to model with some of the biggest names in the Fashion Industry! Tell us about the experience?

Click here to read the rest of the interview