17 Mar 2015, 06:52 am

This flagship annual program to celebrate International Women’s Day is an integral part of the American Center’s commitment to partnering with local organizations to empower women in all spheres of life.
This year, the focus was on women in film and highlighted the diversity and energy that they brought to the film industry and their audiences as they continued to entertain and educate.
Documentary films and mainstream cinema often act as catalysts for social change, prompting audiences to think beyond the images that they see. These dynamic women from different cultures have strived to change the world around them through their films.
In her introductory remarks, U.S. Consul General Helen LaFave said, “This is an opportunity to mobilize all people to do their part and be part of the world, where each women and girl can exercise her choices, such as participating in politics, receiving an education, having an income, and living in societies free from violence and discrimination.”
Special remarks were given by Freida Lee Mock, Academy award winning film maker, writer, director and producer, Melissa Silverstein, writer and founder-editor of Women and Hollywood, critically acclaimed local actor and director Churni Ganguly and noted documentary and tele film director Anindita Sarbadhichari.
The session explored some of the challenges they have faced, their success stories and the values that have shaped their careers and their lives.
Deboshruti Roychowdhury, Dean of students, Presidency University moderated the engaging discussion between the panelists and the audience.
Reestasri Ghosh, Director of Ananta Aspen Center noted, "Powerful voices, compelling stories. These women "through their lens” and work have certainly made a difference to the world around them. I am delighted that our partnership with the American Center continues with the fifth edition of this event, which truly touches a chord in each one of us in a special way. It also reflects the open forum dialogue and discussion that Ananta Aspen promotes."
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- Memory on a plate: I want to demystify Indian cooking, says Kolkata-born British chef Asma Khan
- Three Tables, One Journey – India’s Culinary Heritage Served in Dubai
- CONVERSATION: Indian firms are seeking French-proficient engineers, says Alliance Francaise du Bengale head Nicolas Facino
- Firpo’s: Remembering a slice of colonial Calcutta’s nightlife
- Sri Lanka: An offbeat itinerary in a destination for all seasons
- Planet Word museum: Washington DC's ode to power of language
- In crust you trust: Pizzeria Paradiso in Washington DC’s Georgetown is mood-lifter
- Of Paris, a chronic pain and a pivotal friendship: Frida Kahlo meets Mary Reynolds at the Art Institute of Chicago
- Taiwan: An island full of surprises beckons
Malaysia Airlines will expand its South India network by adding more flights on the Kuala Lumpur–Trivandrum route to meet rising demand, the airline said. From September 12, the carrier will operate five weekly services, with daily flights to start from December 1.
IndiGo has expanded its codeshare agreement with KLM, the Netherlands’ national airline, providing its passengers with enhanced access to destinations across Europe and the United Kingdom through KLM’s network, the airline said.
Etihad Airways and Azul Brazilian Airlines have signed a frequent flyer partnership, allowing members of Etihad Guest and Azul Fidelidade programme to earn and redeem loyalty points across both airlines.