Oye! What's On
July 23-25 :: Definitive guide to Masala! Mehndi! Masti! 2010
Category: What's On Published on Monday, 19 July 2010 19:18 Written by Tapa Menon
Opening Night: Friday July 23, 2010
Food @ 6:00pm: Bandshell Park
Food Vendors:
Udupi Palace, Chandni Chowk, Pondicherry Caterers, Mampster, Elite Banquet Hall/Samosa & Sweet Factory, Konkan Delite, Haveli, Bollywood Unlimited, Mughal Mahal, Ontario Corn Roaster, Twisty Dairy
Bazaar @ 6:00pm: Better Living Centre
There’s no better place to go when you want your desi shopping fix. Visit the State Farm Meena Bazaar and shop till you drop! Vendors include AR International, ARM Fashion, Zoyas Boutique, Panaashe, Channi’s Creations, Fashion Trendz, Heena Enterprises, Arts & Crafts, Sidhnath Collection, Divya Khambhoj, Guru Krippa Clothing, Jessica Fashion Jewelery, Vintage Decor, Pink Jewelery, Omninous Group, Sankir Intl, Finishline Events, Hara Traders, Punit Delwari, B4U, Fusia Magazine, Desiwear and Mehndi artists Sveta, Trupti, Rose Saloon & Spa, Sanchi
Visual Arts @ 6:00pm: Better Living Centre
After his first trip to India, Andrew Adams decided to dedicate his creative talent to supporting the children in India and joined Asha Canada. This project focuses on making education possible for these children. The most significant aim of this creative project is public awareness for the economic impact upon the children, who are India’s future. www.kathaimages.com
Shawn Barry is an artist and musician with many years experience in the creative field. For his third M!M!M! art exhibit, Shawn has created 5 exciting pieces to be premiered, along with a series produced for Nuit Blanche in 2009. He is also honoured to play Tabla for the well-known Toronto Tabla Ensemble under the guidance of his Guruji, Ritesh Das, leader of the Ensemble and Artistic Director of M-DO Toronto Tabla Ensemble Center for World Music & Dance.
During Kuljit Chahal‘s recent trip to India, the everyday life in the city of Mumbai inspired a collection of images that became the starting point of a series of photographs highlighting the startling beauty in the everyday. Today, Kuljit enjoys working with clients making their ideas come to life in photographs. Contact: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
Javed J‘s work as a painter, graphic designer and muralist is dedicated to revealing the architectural spirit of letters and faces, inspired by the principles of Arabic calligraphy, Graffiti art, and portraiture. Currently, Javid is available for custom portraits and calligraphic paintings, on canvas or walls. www.acintya.ca/javid
Parveen Kaur is a visual artist, poet and a university graduate. She is a native of India who made Canada her home twenty-five years back. She got her initial training in art in India. Moving to Ontario in 1987, what fascinated her most was the fall season. She painted large landscapes of colorful forests and dew soaked sunsets. She has had many exhibitions at the Springbank Art Center, Mississauga Library, Living Arts Center and at the Robarts Library.
Vishal Misra is a Canadian artist of South Asian origin. He has exhibited his figurative works internationally and is proud to bring paintings from the ‘Ganesha’ series which have been exhibited extensively at various venues in Canada, US, Dubai India. He currently resides in Mississauga, Ontario, Canada
Shelly Sarkar has been in the Arts for most of her life and is a graduate of OCAD (Ontario College of Art and Design). After completing a children’s ebook at the age of 19, she became one of 70 visual presenters for the Toronto WonderWoman festival of the Arts. Her work has been displayed in Toronto. She is a member of SAVAC, and also Beaux-Arts Visual Arts Cooperative, a gallery in Brampton where she has displayed her work. Shelly has worked with clients and organizations producing artwork to help market events. She also has enjoyed playing piano for Credit Valley Hospital for their “Music of Healing and Hope” program.
A Mississauga-based artist, Ramita Singh, has been painting for almost two decades now. She works in several different mediums, including acrylic paintings, pencil sketches, glass paintings, wall murals created with building material, etc. She is greatly influenced by Indian folk art, primarily painting rural women and motifs which are prevalent in Indian architecture, textiles, and art.
Vicky Talwar is an Emerging Visual Fine Artist based in Toronto, Canada. She has exhibited in multiple art exhibitions in Toronto. Recently, she has exhibited her paintings in a juried exhibition at the Junction Arts Festival in Toronto. Her work explores ethnic textile designs, vibrant colours and textural surfaces on canvas. Painting has always been her lifelong passion. She paints with the intention of creating an escape from life’s pressures and bringing tranquility to her viewers.
Anu Vittal is a prolific painter and poet . Her vivid imagination combined with her passion for colors, brings to life artworks that aim to inspire creativity. She works with mixed media and uses varied materials from sarees, wood chips, glass, dried leaves and jewelery to add textures to her works. She also incoporates poetry into her paintings which brings a third dimension to the visual creations. She is the President of the Mississauga Art Society, oldest art group in Mississauga (est. 1955)
Vicky Vyas‘ East-West collection serves to introduce such issues between Canadian born Indians and their Indian born parents, but also common issues of identity, sexuality and conforming to society’s ideals which all individuals experience in their own ways. The new “When East Meets West” series looks at the strength of women, relationships and the challenges of single parenting. Vicky holds an honours Bachelor of Fine Arts Degree and a Masters degree. She has exhibited throughout Canada and New York City. www.vickyvyas.com
Music @ 7:00pm: Bandshell Stage
TalanaBLU Tassa Cru: Tassa drumming from the Caribbean
TalanaBLU is focused on becoming the trend setters for modern day musical fusion between the old and the new by amalgamating the tribal, ceremonial and cultural influences that Tassa music has had over centuries, with the influences of today’s pop culture and music. Through site walks and stage performances, interaction with the crowd is the key to their positive performances.
Dance @ 7:30pm: BLC Artist Café Stage
Sudeshna Maulik: Kathak dance co-presented by
A Kathak practitioner, Sudeshna Maulik is a spectacularly talented Indian Classical dancer. Based in Canada, she maintains an active performing career that spans North America, Europe, and India. Endowed with an electrifying presence and total involvement in dance, her performances always speak of a rare intensity and authority.
Dance @ 8:00pm: Bandshell Stage
GhuMMMo: the dance showcase featuring 7 Arts Dance Company, Sanskriti Arts, Melange Entertainment and DIYAS Arts & Entertainment
7 Arts Dance Company was established by the collaboration of 7 female artists who share a common passion for dance expression. Setting them apart, with over 100 years of collective dance experience, 7 Arts adds an element of flair to all of their creations. This year 7 Arts will be showcasing a piece which embodies western artistic movement fused with traditional and contemporary Indian dance.
Sanskriti Arts presents Bollywood Masala!¸a collage of diverse forms of Indian dances; the melodious expressions of mujra, energetic throttle of Bhangra, gracious formations of Rajasthani folklore and power-packed Bollywood tunes, all together on stage at MMM 2010! Sanskriti Arts teaches to spread the joy of dance at 8 locations in the GTA.
Mélange Entertainment: the dance company of this ‘eventertainment’ company provides a potpourri of top notch, exciting, unforgettable performances. ME strives to deliver holistic, unique entertainment with passion, ingenuity and distinction. Dance moves that are inspired by Bollywood and high energy performance is their hallmark.
DIYAS is an emerging creative arts company whose focus is to embrace the South Asian Entertainment sector. DIYAS is now offering “Bollywood at Your Doorstep!” to both the private and corporate function settings! This specialized program can be catered to meet your individual and/or group needs, either through team-building workshops or fitness-based workouts that are all designed to get your body moving!
MMMovies! Boman Irani Retrospective co-presented by
A 2006 blockbuster musical comedy film, and the second film in the popular Munna Bhai series. Boman Irani stars as Lucky Singh, an unscrupulous businessman who employs Munna Bhai (Sanjay Dutt), a Mumbai don, to conduct underworld activities for him. Munnabhai begins to practice what he calls Gandhigiri to help ordinary people solve their problems. See what influence he has on Lucky, in the brilliant film that had a massive cultural impact in India, popularising Gandhism under Munna Bhai’s notion of Gandhigiri. It is the recipient of a number of awards, including four National Film Awards. Lage Raho Munna Bhai is the first Hindi film to be shown at the United Nations.
Music @ 8:30: BLC Artist Cafe Stage
MMM Devis & Divas feauring Rebecca Nazz and Stephanie Braganza
No stranger to a stage, Rebecca Nazz, a local Toronto pop artist draws on her life experiences to create her music. Born in Kuwait, but raised in South India and Canada, this young singer/songwriter, writes and develops her own material, penning a poignant blend of poetic lyrics and thoughtful melodies. Growing up in Canada, she quickly became part of the local music scene offering acoustic and electric performances at city music festivals and hold venues at the Mitzi Sisters, Cèst What, The Reverb, Hugh`s Room and the Horseshoe Tavern. Rebecca was recently featured on Bollywood Boulevard in light of her much anticipated EP release for August, 2010.
Stephanie Braganza is powerhouse vocalist, most ably backed by musician/producer nonpareil Colin Stewart. Stephanie studied with such greats as Juno award winner Rik Emmett, Pat LaBarbera, and Trish Colter, and sang with funk/R&B band Blue Jackets Required. Invited to sing with rap artist Belly and Ginuwine at the Muchmusic Video Awards, and at clubs throughout Ontario, Stephanie Braganza is a sparkling singer whose star is on the rise.
Music @ 9:45pm: Bandshell Stage
Ayaan & Amaan Ali Khan featuring Vineet Vyas co-presented by
This brother duo is leaders of the next generation of classical Indian music. Sarod maestros who are taking the art form across boundaries in the classical and non-classical spheres. Sons of the legendary Ustad Amjad Ali Khan and Subhalakshmi Barua Khan, they are joined by Canada’s very own Tabla virtuoso Vineet Vyas.
Music @ 10:00pm: BLC Artist Café Stage
Sundar’s Indus-Trio: South Asian and Jazz inspired music
Led by Juno nominated Saxophonist/Vocalist/Flutist and Composer Sundar Viswanathan, Sundar’s Indus-Trio melts together the diverse influences of jazz, electronica and improvised world music often within the pervasive atmosphere of the Drone. The trio explores vocal and instrumental jazz melodies and underground grooves, simultaneously embodying soul and spirit. Sundar’s website: www.sundarmusic.com
Party @ 10:00pm: Maro (offsite)
M!M!M! 10 YEAR ANNIVERSARY RED CARPET VIP PARTY co-presented by [Déjà Vu], hosted by [Shanu & Karim] (Ticketed, Ladies 23+, Gentlemen 25+)
DEJA VU EVENTS – Punji and Jiten, invite you to a truly special event… Masala! Mehndi! Masti!’s
10 YEAR ANNIVERSARY RED CARPET VIP PARTY. Join us as we commemorate this momentous occasion as Canada’s largest South Asian festival celebrates its ten year anniversary!
Friday, July 23rd inside MARO (135 Liberty St., Toronto). Hosted by SHANU & KARIM. Doors open at 10PM, Gentlemen 25+, Ladies 23+. For Bottle Service or Guestlist please call 416.347.5213 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting 416.347.5213 end_of_the_skype_highlighting or 416.414.3033
Saturday July 24, 2010
Food @ 12:00pm: Bandshell Park
Food Vendors:
Udupi Palace, Chandni Chowk, Pondicherry Caterers, Mampster, Elite Banquet Hall/Samosa & Sweet Factory, Konkan Delite, Haveli, Bollywood Unlimited, Mughal Mahal, Ontario Corn Roaster, Twisty Dairy
Bazaar @ 12:00pm: Better Living Centre
Please see Friday, July 23rd at 6:00pm for detailed information.
Visual Arts @12:00pm: Better Living Centre
Please see Friday, July 23rd at 6:00pm for detailed information.
Visual Arts @ 12:00pm: QE Theatre
Crafts of South Asia presented by [Royal Ontario Museum]
Ornamenting the Ordinary: Crafts of South Asia
Discover the beauty of ornament…
Discover the beauty of ornament…
Learn about the artistic styles, craftsmanship and craft traditions of South Asia’s many culturally diverse regions. This traveling exhibit explores the interaction between South Asia and the rest of the world and has six sections. Ornamenting the Ordinary explores the ancient Indus Valley civilization, images of gods and goddesses, the architecture of the Taj Mahal, cotton-dyeing techniques and more. Visitors learn how to read visual symbols, understand Asian religions, and recognize traditional art forms that are still around in our everyday environments.
Music @ 12:15pm: BLC Artist Café Stage
M!M!M! Seniors’ Desi Idol Semi-Finals: The Senior Citizens’ music competition.
M!M!M! is proud to pay respect to those who have handed down to us our incomparable culture and heritage – our community Seniors. This year we give the stage back to them. ‘Give it up’ to our senior who are participating in the first ever MMM Seniors Desi Idol contest. 10 aMMMazing years of Masala! Mehndi! Masti!, but many aMMMazing decades of South Asian Arts and Culture – thanks to our Seniors!
Also performing: Shiamak Davar’s Indo Jazz Movement Seniors Group!
Let’s see which Mum or Dad, Aunt or Uncle, Dada or Dadi, Nana or Nani becomes the first MMM Seniors Desi Idol of 2010.
The contest has two age categories:
1) 55 to 64 years 2) 65+ years.
Winners will receive cash prize money.
This event is supported by the
This event is supported by the
and co produced by
and Raheel Raza.
MMMovies! Boman Irani Retrospective co-presented by
A Hindi comedy starring Boman Irani and Anupam Kher. A small budget film that did very well at the box office. It won the National Film Award for Best Feature Film in Hindi for 2006. A funny take on typical corrupt systems that plague the purchase of real estate in India. What happens when Khosla(Kher) can’t take posession of his property because it has been occupied and captured by Khurana (Irani). A realistic, yet hilarious reflection of Delhi’s real estate business!
Literary & Visual Arts @ 1:00pm: Better Living Centre
Art Gallery of Ontario celebrates the Maharaja Exhibition at MMM!
Join AGO community artists and create your very own Maharaja fan inspired by the Royal Courts of India while engaging in conversations about the Art Gallery of Ontario and the importance of art in your community.
Dance @ 1:15pm: Bandshell Stage
M!M!M! Baccha Party featuring various children’s dance showcases
M!M!M! hands over the stage to the next generation. Students from Swar Sadhana, It’s Bollywood and other dance schools bust a move and present performances that show they are well on their way to becoming future stars.
Literary Arts @ 1:15pm: Fountain Room
Janice Goveas: readings from original literary works
Janice Goveas works in fiction and playwriting. Her short fiction has been published in The New Quarterly, Pitkin in Progress and Icarus Ascending. A collection of her plays titled, Margaret in Search of Herself and Other Plays, was published in December 2008. At the festival, she will be reading from one of those plays, called “Dinner with Akbar”. She has an MFA in Creative Writing from Goddard College in Vermont.
Dance @ 2:00pm: BLC Artist Café Stage
Natya Tapasya: Bharatanatyam dance performance
Natya Tapasya Dance Academy is a Bharatanatyam School providing dance and yoga classes in Mississauga & Brampton. Founded by Sridevi Vishwanathan, the institute provides a thorough training in “Kalakshetra” style, along with theory knowledge & Yoga. The dancers of Natya Tapasya have performed extensively in Canada, US, Middle East and India.
Literary Arts @ 2:00pm: Fountain Room
In Conversation with Salman Ahmed: founder of rock band Junoon, UN Goodwill Ambassador, hosted by CBC Radio’s Aparita Bhandari. Book 7 CD launch: Rock & Roll Jehad. Co-presented by
Aparita Bhandari of CBC Radio guides us on a journey through Salman Ahmed’s incredible life. From Junoon to working with Melissa Etheridge, being a UN Goodwill ambassador to the release of his book and CD “Rock and Roll Jehad”. This once in a lifetime opportunity to be inspired by the inimitable Salman Ahmed in person cannot be missed.
Music @ 2:15pm: Bandshell Stage
Destiny Band: Soca, Chutney, R&B, Reggae & Bollywood Indo-Caribbean style!
Destiny aims to be a premier cross-over band with talented, versatile musicians and singers from all ethnic backgrounds. The band was founded at the home of Stephenson Nanan with other musicians from bands in Trinidad and Tobago. Under the influences of Curtis Bernard (Curtis-B), Glenroy John (Big-G) and Errol Ramlogan (Screel) “DESTINY” was born.The band plays a wide variety off music including genres such as Soca, Reggae, R&B, Hip-Hop, Indian and Chutney. www.destinyent-cei.com
Music @ 3:00pm: BLC Artist Café Stage
Aditya Verma: Canada’s own Sarod maestro co-presented by Raag Mala Society of Toronto
Aditya Verma is one of Canada’s premier forces on the Canadian and international world music scene. A charismatic sarod player based in Montreal, he has won the admiration of audiences across North America, Europe and India. Aditya’s creative collaborations with artists of diverse traditions from around the globe have been received with acclaim and enthusiasm, including a performance with the Washington Symphony Orchestra on Capital Hill for an audience of over 500,000 people.
MMMovies! Boman Irani Retrospective co-presented by
This highest grossing Indian film in history, garnered Boman Irani the 2010 Star Screen Award, Filmfare Award and IIFA Award for Best Villain. Boman’s performance as the the ruthless Dean of a college has won accolades and praise from all quarters. The film stars Aamir Khan, Kareena Kapoor and Madhavan.
Music/Dance @ 3:15pm: Bandshell Stage
Swar Sadhana Dandia-Raas: An audience participatory event.
Gujarat’s biggest cultural export to the world. An all-inclusive, participatory folk dance, where both men and women wear colorful traditional clothes and perform in a circular movement pattern. The modern form of Garba is heavily influenced by Raas wherein the dance is performed with sticks in rhythm and formation, making the most interesting form of dancing.
The live band is presented by Swar Sadhana: school of Indian Classical Music and Dance. Swar means basic note of music and Sadhana means meditation. The School promotes the development of traditional music and dance talent. www.swarsadhana.ca. In addition the Swar Sadhana Music Lovers Club (SSMLC) is a registered not-for-profit organization that aims to promote rich Indian cultural heritage and values, by creating opportunities to amateurs in the community to showcase their talent. www.swarsadhanamusicloversclub.com
Music @ 4:15pm: Bandshell Stage
TalanaBLU Tassa CRU
Join these fantastic percussionists as they work their way through the grounds entertaining you up close. Please view Friday, July 23rd at 7pm for more information on TalanaBLU Tassa CRU.
Literary Arts @ 4:15pm: Fountain Room
Fenulla Jiwani: readings from original literary works
Fenulla Jiwani, author of the recently published book, BALANCE: Living in Harmony with Peace, Joy & Love, shares her inspirational awakenings, authentic simplicities, and the invaluable insights that she has experienced throughout her life. Fenulla illuminates the truth, guiding you to heal your past, align to your soul’s purpose, and expand yourself into your true Divine essence.
Dance @ 4:30pm: BLC Artist Café Stage
“Derwaza: The Door”: Paromita Kar & Jasmyn Fyffe: collaborative dance showcasing Indian traditional and modern dance
Paromita Kar and Jasmyn Fyffe will perform a collaborative dance piece titled “Derwaza: The Door”, showcasing both Indian traditional and modern dance. From ornate doorways of buildings and monuments to the mystical entrances, the concept of the door recurs in every culture, perhaps reflecting a universal human concept of a transition signaling the end and/or a beginning.
MMMovies! Boman Irani Retrospective co-presented by
Honeymoon Travels is an off-beat drama weaving together the stories of 6 couples on their honeymoons on the same tourist bus. Old-timers Oscar(Boman Irani) and Nahid(Shabana Azmi) on their second marriages, reflective and forgiving of live. A Gujrati couple who are always scrapping, the super-compatible Parsi couple, the oddball NRI desi wife, the uptight Bengali who is so in love with his wife, and the ‘opposite ends’ Punjabi couple. Everything looks lovey-dovey in the beginning, but with familiarity and time, problems arise. How does each couple deal with their own specific problems? Watch to find out!
Seminar @ 5:00pm: Fountain Room
Music Seminar: a panel discussion with Vikas Kohli, DJ Jiten, Jazz Virk & Suzanne D’Mello
Music @ 5:45pm: Bandshell Stage
MMM Urban Grooves presents Deesha and Jay Deala
Following her 2007 Juno nomination for R&B Soul Recording of the Year for her debut album “Life Less Ordinary”, singer/songwriter/producer Deesha is finally ready to reveal her most intimate self in what can best be described as an emotional retro-electro pop journey through heartbreak, hope and love. From the Bollywood inspired ‘Got Me Sayin’ which features a classic sample Bollywood tune from “Apni To Jaise Taise”, to the painfully honest “Let Me Go”, Deesha’s sophomore release will be an unexpected surprise to many, but as far as Deesha is concerned, she has finally found her voice. You can catch her song “Let Your Freak Out” in the Oscar nominated movie “The Wrestler”. www.deesha.com.
The urban desi phenom known as Jay Deala is ready, set and poised to take his rightful place as the first mainstream hip-hop artist from the South Asian community in years. Inspired by mainstream pioneer artists such as Apache Indian and Punjabi MC, Jay Deala is aiming to take over the music industry and fill a void in urban desi hip-hop that has desperately been needed for quite sometime now. Get ready for something special. Look out for his debut album “SINCERELY, JAY DEALA” set to release soon. www.myspace.com/mwayent
Literary Arts @ 6:00pm: Fountain Room
Vivek Shraya: readings from original literary works
Vivek Shraya is a transplanted prairie boy living in Toronto. Active in the local queer community, he’s also a musician who has toured North America, showcased at NXNE and CMW , and appeared with Tegan and Sara, Dragonette, and Melissa Ferrick. Shraya has released five records, including 2009′s Keys & Machines, and was recently featured on ABC’s Private Practice. God Loves Hair is his first book.
Music @ 7:00pm: BLC Artist Café Stage
MMM Devis & Divas: Bageshree Vaze Canada’s own desi diva
The 2010 co-recipient of the K.M. Hunter Award in Dance, Bageshree Vaze is fast-emerging as a tour de force on the international dance and music scene. Named an MTV India ‘ubbharta sitara’ (rising star) in 2004, Bageshree is a renowned Kathak and Bharatha Natyam dancer and choreographer, as well as a singer with two CDs to her credit, and another one in the works. The video for her single ‘Deewana’ won the 2006 ReelWorld film festival award for Outstanding Canadian music video, and her songs are aired on CBC National Radio and the UK’s BBC Radio. She is currently working on a new project, ‘Avatar (9)’ which will be presented as part of Harbourfront Centre’s ‘NextSteps’ Series in May 2011.
In Conversation with Suzanne D’Mello: Bollywood playback singer of Slumdog Millionaire, Ghajini, Singh Is King fame, hosted by Vikas Kohli of Fatlabs
Canadian music producer Vikas Kohli leads a conversation with India’s rising singing superstar. With Slumdog Millionaire, Ghajini, Singh is King and many other film songs under her belt, find out what drives this artist, learn about her experiences and find out what it takes to make in the world’s biggest film industry!
Music/Dance @ 7:30pm: Bandshell Stage
Toronto Tabla Ensemble: MMM’s first ever headliners in 2001 return with Chhandam Dance Company
This critically acclaimed independent band from Toronto, Canada, is a total music experience. Under the leadership and direction of Ritesh Das, the TTE has developed its own powerful style using rhythms from India, while exploring contemporary musical landscapes with artists from other cultures. with dance companies Chhandam & Lavish and musical guests Ian de Souza & Evan Ritchie.
Film @ 7:45pm: QE Theatre
MMMovies! Boman Irani Retrospective: In Conversation with Boman Irani hosted by OMNI TV’s Mohit Rajhans
Take out a full hour to join Mohit Rajhans of OMNI TV’s Bollywood Boulevard and City TV, as he chats with Boman Irani, and delves in to his life achievements, experiences and more. A rare chance to get “Up Close and Personal” with this multiple award winning film and theatre Actor, Photographer and now, Singer.
Music @ 8:00pm: BLC Artist Café Stage
MMM Chillout featuring Mandippal, Rekha Patel, Richard Wilson (UAE), Hanif Shariff (Montreal), Husein Madhavji A diverse range of musical talent presented cabaret style
Coming from a family of well-respected musicians and writers, Mandippal has been gaining a steady following by focusing on his own blend of poetry and pop/rock. With nine years of song writing and performing under his belt, 150+ shows played a year, 1500+ EP’s sold in the last year, and a new album in production, Mandippal is at last getting recognized as a serious player. With the ability to capture an audience with his tone and humility, it is only a matter of time before he wins you over as well.
There is no doubt that Rekha Patel’s lyrics come from a very honest place, writing, for the most part, about love and relationships. Recently, she has co-written with writer/producer, Brent Bodrug (Alanis Morissette, Eva Avila), and former Sony writer/producer, Ashton Price (Kazzer, Lisa Swain) So watch out, world – and listen. With Rekha’s brand of folky-pop, this is one songstress who is sure to have the corners of your mouth curling upward in no time.
Based in Dubai, Richard Wilson, a singer and songwriter of Indian origin, is hugely influenced by soul artists, including Stevie Wonder, Brian McKnight, John Legend and Ne-Yo. His music combines strong vocals and simple melodies, integrating the various nuances of Funk, Neo-Soul and R&B. With a diverse musical background having performed all throughout his school life in musicals and theatre, Richard has held the lead in the musicals Oliver, Cats, Saturday Night Fever, and Rock You.
Quickly emerging on to Montreal’s vivacious music scene, Hanif Shariff offers a refreshing, unique, R&B- soul vibe, rooted in a deep passion for music. After formally studying both classical and jazz piano, he independently learned how to beatbox and play the guitar. Taking the stage at M!M!M! Chillout this year, Hanif along with guitarist Evan Dexter will let their acoustic groove flow, put a spin on some soulful classics and perform some originals for the first time!
Husein Madhavji a.k.a. “Huse” is best known as the former face of Star! Canada’s Entertainment Channel. The dynamic host/actor/producer is now focusing on performing on stage and on film. However, as a singer/songwriter, Huse is heavily influenced by The Beatles, Ben Harper, Ray LaMontagne and Bob Marley. He has a collection of tunes that he’s written since high school, all very personal, all very revealing and all stored in his precious red duo-tang!
Music @ 8:00pm: Fountain Room
Sheniz Janmohamed: ARISE – A Dynamic Spoken Word Performance
The denigration of the environment, the mistrust in corporations and the limitation of knowledge have created a sense of apathy in the younger generation. This is a call for action, to arise and ascend. A call for peace and unity in an age of destruction. ARISE is a dynamic spoken word performance accompanied by vocals and guitar.
Music @ 8:45pm: Bandshell Stage
Salman Ahmed (Junoon) in Concert (Pakistan/USA): Founder of South Asia’s legendary rock band, UN Goodwill Ambassador, author of “Rock and Roll Jehad” co-presented by
The incomparable rock star and founder of Asian rock legends “Junoon” presents a concert like no other, featuring the classics and tracks that are being launched via his new CD ‘Rock & Roll Jehad’, accompanied by guest artists from New York. This tireless UN Goodwill Ambassador will also conduct the Canadian release of his book of the same name “Rock and Roll Jehad” and will be featured in an interactive ‘In Conversation With’ session as well.
Film @ 9:00pm: QE Theatre
MMMovies! Boman Irani Retrospective co-presented by
Radhika (Maia Katrak) is pregnant but the baby is not her husband Nikhil’s (Boman Irani). How will he react if she told him? What will he do? Radhika’s imagination takes us on a journey to her husband’s possible reactions to this predicament as alternative reactions are presented through the film. Maia Katrak and Boman Irani provide riveting performances with a realism and truth unsurpassed in modern Indian cinema.
Theatre @ 9:00pm: Fountain Room
Meri Kahani: A powerful theatre piece by Umbereen Inayat
This innovative play addresses the challenges faced by South Asian survivors of abuse in a North American context. Using theatre, dance and music as a tool for change, each kahani, or story, is told through the varied perspectives of South Asian survivors of abuse and looks at issues of domestic violence, incest, gender, trauma and sexual assault to capture the diversity of experiences among South Asian women. This play has been featured on CBC Television, the Toronto Star and OMNI TV.
Suzanne D’Mello in Concert: Bollywood’s rising star with performances on the Slumdog Millionaire, Ghajini and Singh Is King soundtracks
With her international solo debut at the recent Luminato festival in Toronto, in the MMM co-produced Light on Your Feet “Bollywood Diva”, Suzanne will sweep festival revelers off their feet with her powerhouse voice and stunning range of Bollywood songs. Her career highlights thus far have been performing for the Slumdog Millionaire, Ghajini, Sing Is King and Kites soundtracks.
Party @ 10:00: Revival (offsite)
Luv To Bhang & Besharam: the M!M!M! 10th Anniversary Party
BHANGra meets Bollywood! Besharam, Desi Wear, Natchmusic Entertainment, Masala!Mehndi!Masti!
& Luv To Bhang Present:
The Official M!M!M! Afterparty: Besharam Luvs To Bhang! Saturday July 24th @ Revival, 783 College St W (in Lil’ Italy). Featuring Double AA & DJ Amita. On Drums – Paul “The Drummer” Nanuwa. On the Mic – MC JD. 25+ Only For All Males & Females, $20 before 11pm. It’s going to be One Funk’d Up Night!
Sunday July 25, 2010
Food @ 12:00pm: Bandshell Park
Food Vendors: Udupi Palace, Chandni Chowk, Pondicherry Caterers, Mampster, Elite Banquet Hall/Samosa & Sweet Factory, Konkan Delite, Haveli, Bollywood Unlimited, Mughal Mahal, Ontario Corn Roaster, Twisty Dairy
Bazaar @ 12:00pm: Better Living Centre
Please see Friday, July 23rd at 6:00pm for detailed information.
Visual Arts @12:00pm: Better Living Centre
Please view Friday, July 23rd at 6:00pm for detailed information.
Visual Arts @ 12:00pm: QE Theatre
Crafts of South Asia presented by [Royal Ontario Museum]
Please view Saturday, July 24 at 12:00pm for detailed information.
Literary & Visual Arts @ 1:00pm: Better Living Centre
[Art Gallery of Ontario] celebrates the Maharaja Exhibition at M!M!M!
Join AGO community artists and create your very own Maharaja fan inspired by the Royal Courts of India while engaging in conversations about the Art Gallery of Ontario and the importance of art in your community.
Music @ 1:00pm: Bandshell Stage
MMM Seniors Desi Idol Finals
M!M!M! is proud to pay respect to those who have handed down to us our incomparable culture and heritage – our community Seniors. This year we give the stage back to them. ‘Give it up’ to our senior who are participating in the first ever MMM Seniors Desi Idol contest. 10 aMMMazing years of Masala! Mehndi! Masti!, but many aMMMazing decades of South Asian Arts and Culture – thanks to our Seniors!
Let’s see which Mum or Dad, Aunt or Uncle, Dada or Dadi, Nana or Nani becomes the first MMM Seniors Desi Idol of 2010.
The contest has two age categories:
1) 55 to 64 years 2) 65+ years.
Winners will receive cash prize money.
This event is supported by the
This event is supported by the
and co produced by
and Raheel Raza.
Film @ 1:00pm: QE Theatre
MMMovies! Boman Irani Retrospective co-presented by
In this cheery, upbeat comedy drama, Armaan Ali returns to work after a mysterious three-month break. Asked by his irate boss to explain himself, Ali embarks on a colourful and fantastical tale that takes in his attempts to marry off his wayward daughter, the vexations caused by his irresponsible relatives, a mysterious tale of a stolen well and ultimately a farcical state of affairs that threatens to bring down the Government. Do we believe this hilarious, fantastic yarn, or is Armaan Ali spinning an elaborate lie?
Music/Dance @ 2:00pm: BLC Artist Café Stage
M!M!M! Bachcha Party
M!M!M! hands over the stage to the next generation. Students from Swar Sadhana, It’s Bollywood and other dance schools bust a move and present performances that show they are well on their way to becoming future stars.
Dance @ 2:00pm: Bandshell Stage
ICA @ York University show & Diyas Arts & Entertainment’s Mass Dance Class
Indian Cultural Association at York University is proud of many award winning performances. ICA has won The Multicultural Week dance competition at York for three consecutive years. They have also been invited to perform at various other cultural galas around the GTA. ICA’s performance will take you through a journey of various cities, while showcasing dance styles from those cities.
Seminar @ 2:45pm: Bandshell Park
Laughter Yoga with Paul O’Donnell
We don’t need to seek humour to have an ‘excuse’ to laugh as we can choose to ‘Laugh For No Reason’ – a book by Dr. Madan Katria that describes his model of self-initiated laughter. Paul O’Donnell leads laughing with a group of people, which provides an extra boost and helps us break down our internal and social inhibitions. The side effects include decreased levels of stress, and softened attitudes.
Music @ 3:00pm: Bandshell Stage
Mussarat Abbas (Pakistan): rising superstar who staked his claim to fame via a popular TV singing contest
A Pakistani singer and finalist on the TV show, Sa Re Ga Ma Pa Challenge in 2007, Mussarat Abbas has been singing since the age of 10. Although he never received professional training, he was inspired by Ghulam Ali to take up singing. By practicing at home, Mussarat improved his singing techniques and continued to win singing competitions in his hometown of Lahore. He experimented with various genres but proved his strength in the Sufi genre after performing various Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan songs.
Music @ 3:30pm: BLC Artist Café Stage
M!M!M! Devis & Divas: Jonita Gandhi Toronto based songstress presents film and other favourite music
Jonita Gandhi, a 20-year-old Indo-Canadian singer situated in the GTA, has been singing and dancing since she was just a little child, as well as organizing, singing, dancing, and choreographing for various stage performances across North America (over 100 in the past 4 years). More recently, she recorded a tribute to Michael Jackson called “This One’s for You” along with other singers including renowned Bollywood singer Sonu Niigaam.
Music @ 4:00pm: BLC Artist Café Stage
Umesh Patel: Gujarati popular and folk music
Umesh is a ‘born-singer’; a Sangeet Visharad with Bruhad Gujarat Sangeet Samiti. He is a government approved Artist, accredited by Gujarat Government. He has participated in many national and state level music competitions, winning many of them. He is a master of all types of classical music and has made a name for himself in North America by performing in community programs in Toronto, Ottawa, Montreal and Windsor and in many cities in USA.
Film @ 4:00pm: QE Theatre
MMMovies! Presents
South Asian Film Festival returns to MMM to present an hour of short films by South Asian film makers.
I Want to be a Desi 2 (Canada, 2009, 6 min, English, HD) Director: Allan Tong
After 2 years and over 10 festivals across North America, Winner of the ‘Best Documentary at the University of Toronto Film Fest. This film asks, What does a non-Desi have to do to become a Desi? And what does the word DESI mean to you? DESI: South Asian immigrants and descendants, carrying a subtext of inclusiveness and unity…
Anika’s Home (Canada, 2010, 8 min, English) Director: Saiful Wadud Helal
Anika Hossain is a political science student at Carlton University, Ottawa, Canada. She is also TV host. After 15 years of living in Canada, her parent sent her back to her native Bangladesh to find a husband for herself. Anika has lots of interesting things to say about political marriage and cultural marriage.
Sindoor (Canada, 2010, 8 min, English) Director: Mangla Bansal
A young Indo-Canadian woman’s search to find peace after losing the love of her life in a car accident. The music for the film is a new rendition of ‘Khoob teri pagri, meethe tere bhol’ a Sikh hymn.
Topi (USA, 2009, 6 min, Punjabi) Director: Arjun Rihan
Amidst the turbulent partition of India circa 1947, a young Hindu boy has a chance encounter with a stranger.
Abridged (USA, 2008, 3 Min) Director: Arjun Rihan
A romantic comedy set on the Golden Gate Bridge.
The Bee (Canada, 2010, 1 Min) Director: Vikram Das Gupta
The day in the life of a Bee.
The Party (Canada, 2010, 2 Min) Director: Vikram Das Gupta
Home cooking.
Walla (Canada, 2010, 5 Min) Director: Cyrus Sundar-Singh
Shot entirely in India, Walla is a visual reflection on those who still earn a daily wage on the bustling streets of India. Whether it be the sugarcane juice walla or the tobacco walla, this vibrant film takes the viewer on a four and a half minute ride through the crowded lanes of Mumbai with an exceptional soundtrack.
Pia (USA, 2010, 19 Minutes) Director: Tanuj Chopra
San Francisco. 2063. Much of human labor is replaced with service androids called PIAs. One night, a mysterious and malfunctioning PIA appears at Syama Raval’s front door. While interrogating the robot, Syama must challenge her assumptions about life and existence if she is to reconcile her past.
Music/Dance @ 4:45pm: Bandshell Stage
Jorge Miguel’s Flamenkathak (Spain/Canada): experience the mesmerizing merging of Spanish flamenco and South Asian Kathak music and dance. Created for MMM 2005.
Many music and dance scholars believe that the busy port of Cadiz in Spain had ships arrive from India with dancers who entertained travelers. These dancers became known as Gaditanas, as long ago Cadiz was known as Gades or Gadir. The similarity in the two dance forms Flamenco and Kathak, especially in the complex compound rhythms, makes it easy to believe that Kathak was a contributing factor in the birth and development of Flamenco.
Dance @ 5:00pm: BLC Artist Café Stage
Hemant and Vaishali Panwar: reknowned Kathak dance duo
With 16 years of performing and teaching experience, the Kathak duo Hemant and Vaishali Panwar, were trained at the National Institute of Kathak Dance, Delhi under the guidance of Guru Shri Rajendra Gangani in Jaipur Gharana style. Performing in India, Guyana, Germany, Switzerland, Japan, Italy, and Austria has established them as a dance icon of beautification and exhilaration. They are the artistic directors of Panwar Music and Dance Academy, which provides professional training in Kathak, singing , harmonium, tabla and the Hindi language.
Seminar @ 5:15pm: Bandshell Park
Laughter Yoga with Paul O’Donnell
We don’t need to seek humour to have an ‘excuse’ to laugh as we can choose to ‘Laugh For No Reason’ – a book by Dr. Madan Katria that describes his model of self-initiated laughter. Paul O’Donnell leads laughing with a group of people, which provides an extra boost and helps us break down our internal and social inhibitions. The side effects include decreased levels of stress, and softened attitudes.
Music @ 5:30pm: Bandshell Stage
Bhanging in the Park co-presented by
This branded bhangra blowout has become an M!M!M! trade mark event with partners Desiwear. A phenomenal festival finale and fitting way to mark the culmination of 10 years of MMM. Part traditional, part contemporary and part fusion Bhangra – 100% high energy MMMasti!
Double AA is recognized as one of the best South Asian Club DJ’s around the world. As his skills and creativity on the turntables is second to none, he held residencies Toronto’s biggest urban clubs, including being featured on FLOW 93.5 FM (Toronto) and 93.7 WBLK (Buffalo). He is cofounder of ‘Phunk’d’ (http://www.phunkd.com), ‘The 4MLA’ (http://www.the4mla.com), and of course ‘Luv To Bhang’ (http://www.luvtobhang.com). www.doubleaa.com
Paul ‘The Drummer’ Nanuwa is a JUNO nominated artist from Oakville, Ontario. Paul has been learning and performing drums/percussion for the past 24 years and has performed and mes- merized crowds with the likes of Alannah Myles, Chantal Kreviazuk, I Mother Earth, Jeremy Taggart (Our Lady Peace), Sam Roberts, Chuck-D (Public Enemy), Ginuwine, Jully Black, Aaron Solowoniuk (Billy Talent), Travis Barker (Blink 182), and many, many more. http://www.youtube.com/user/pnanny
With his powerful hard-hitting voice, Deep Jandu, has created a scene for himself in the Punjabi music market. This young Canadian born vocalist has concluded his debut album titled “Nach”, which is already hitting the TOP TEN charts in India! His energetic voice has led him to engage in many fields of music including boliyan, classical training, harmony pieces, and other recording projects.
Nachdi Jawani is a fabulous bhangra troupe whose aim is to portray the essence of Punjabi dances, music, poetry and art as it existed in a united (pre-1947) Punjab. In 2005, the group launched Punjabi Virsa Arts and Culture Academy (PVACA) with a goal to keep youth free from drugs and gang-violence in a friendly and safe environment by promoting and preserving cultural values. www.nachdijawani.com
Inspired by the chart topping successful UK Bhangra scene, GTA’s only South Asian fusion band, Avalla, meaning unique, has taken the Toronto music industry by storm. With vocals, keys, guitars, drums, dhol, and intoxicating African beats on the dholak, tabla and congo, these seven mind-blowing artists have come together to give an ultimate entertainment experience. www.avallaconnection.com
Founded by Sukha Bhamra, Dhol Circle is an innovative group that has revolutionized the Dhol through mixing traditional Bhangra rhythm with world beats. With over 20 percussionists and influence from African, Brazilian and Indian rhythms, Dhol Circle has integrated their original sound to create an explosive rhythmic experience. Come nourish your Mind, Body and Soul! www.dholcircle.com
Theatre @ 6:00pm: QE Theatre
M!M!M! presents the 9th Annual
(Tickets available at www.mybindi.com for $24, 19+) Doors Open at 5:30pm
MyBindi.com, North America’s premier online South Asian network, is thrilled to announce its 9th Annual MyBindi Comedy Night. Showcasing both Canadian and International talent, the impressive line-up, hosted by Mohit Rajhans of Omni Television, includes Hollywood Harv, Jazz Mann and features headliner Vidur Kapur, who is one of the original “Gurus of Comedy”, a show produced in 2003 along with Russell Peters. Vidur has starred in many festivals and on television from MTV’s “Outlaugh Festival” and “One Night Stand Up”, New York’s Comedy Festival, were he found himself as one of the Top 10 comics of “New York’s Funniest Stand-Up” competition, and was described by FOX as a “comedian to remember”.
Harv discusses everything from relationships to growing up as an Indo-Canadia through his “in-your-face” comedic style.
Jazz Mann’s edgy style and comedic style draws from his own experiences growing up as a South Asian in the multi-cultural city of Toronto. He is known for his high energy and an outgoing observational look on life.
Headliner Vidur Kapur culls a set of original and funny insights out of the contradictions which inform his experience as a gay man, an immigrant son of a conservative upper middle class family intent on arranged marriages, a corporate executive in blue chip international firms, and a person horrified at being mistaken for a terrorist in post 9/11 America.
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