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Cover Story
RK Dewan & Co at the
WIPF 2024 |
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RKD News
Dr Mohan Dewan at the
GIPC 2024 Post event recap: 2nd Annual Media & Entertainment Law Summit |
| 3 |
Spotlight
Leadership Legacy |
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Analysis
Media and Entertainment & IP |
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Thread Bare
IP Litigation Updates |
| 6 |
Snips and Specs
IPR Quiz Unsung Heroes & Heroines - Acharya Prafulla Chandra Ray: Father of Indian Chemistry Hidden Gems on India – Maravanthe |
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RK DEWAN & CO. AT
THE WIPF 2024: |
| This year's World Intellectual Property Forum was a showcase of global innovation, and R.K. Dewan & Co. was in the midst of it all. The awards ceremony was a highlight, recognizing individuals and firms making significant contributions to the IP landscape. Our Principal, Dr. Mohan Dewan was felicitated by the “Influential & Inspiring Leader of All Time” award for his contributions. |
| It was an enlightening experience, offering a platform for in-depth discussions on the latest trends, challenges, and advancements in the domain of intellectual property. The conference served as a confluence of ideas, where the brightest minds in IP law converged to exchange knowledge and carve out the future path of IP protection and litigation. |
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RKDecodes
Decoding Delicious
Delicacies - “Makke ki
Roti with Sarson ka
Saag” |
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Visit us at www.rkdewan.com | Write to us at niti_dewan@rkdewanmail.com | Follow Us on  |
NEWSNET
MONTHLY NEWSLETTER
DECEMBER 2023 |
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The forum provided an unparalleled opportunity to network with fellow IPprofessionals, thought leaders, and visionaries. Our associates engaged in stimulatingconversations, expanding our network, and furthering our mission to safeguardinnovations that drive our world forward.
The Firm was represented by
Prof. Dr. Amit Tiwari and
Dr. Rajinder Sapru who
attended the prestigious event in Bengaluru, bringing with them our firm's legacy.As we reflect on the enriching experiences of the World IP Forum, we are inspired tocontinue our pursuit of excellence in IP law.
We extend our heartiest congratulations to all award recipients and our deepestgratitude to the organizers for an impeccable conference. |
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NEWSNET
MONTHLY NEWSLETTER
DECEMBER 2023 |
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| RK DEWAN AND CO. AT THE GIPC 2024 |
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R K Dewan & Co. is delighted to sharethat, recently
Dr Mohan Dewan wasinvited as a
distinguished guest
todeliver the inaugural address at theGlobal IP Convention (GIPC) 2024 on 7thJanuary 2024.
In his address, Dr. Dewan enlightened several academicians, IP professionals, practitioners and other stakeholders on the topic of
“Conquering the AIRevolution.”
Dr. Dewan covered crucial aspects surrounding AI such as the challenges and concerns that the AI revolution brings with itself, collaboration and global cooperation to overcome these challenges and the road forward in cybersecurity and AI safety. |
Adv. Anju Agrawal (Senior Litigator),
Mr. Deepak Singh (Team Leader & Senior Patent Attorney),
Adv. Isha Gandhi (Senior Legal Associate) & Ms. Ashima Sobti (Patent Associate) represented our firm at the event.
The GIPC is Asia's leading conference for in-house IP counsels and innovators to interact with IP attorneys from around the world to discuss best practices and solutions to maximize the value of their innovation and IP. Since 2009, more than three thousand nine hundred delegates have participated from over fifty countries. |
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MONTHLY NEWSLETTER
DECEMBER 2023 |
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| We are thankful to the GIPC Team for organising this insightful conference and bringing together learned professionals under one roof. Our participation in GIPC has further strengthened our commitment to delivering exceptional IP solutions to our clients. |
| POST EVENT RECAP: 2ND ANNUAL MEDIA AND ENTERTAINMENT LAW SUMMIT |
| We are thrilled to share a recap of R K Dewan & Co's dynamic participation in the 2nd Annual Media and Entertainment Law Summit 2023 organized by Inventicon Business Intelligence Pvt. Ltd. Held on December 13th and 14th in Mumbai, the summit brought together legal minds and industry leaders to explore the latest in media and entertainment law. |
| Our team, including Prof. (Dr.) Amit Kumar Tiwari, Adv. Ruchika Punjabi, and Adv. Prashant Shetty, actively engaged in thought-provoking panel discussions and keynote sessions, covering emerging trends, legal challenges, and opportunities within the industry. |
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| The summit provided a platform for sharing our expertise and gaining insights from other legal professionals during networking sessions with industry experts, legal professionals, and peers, leading to exciting collaborations and partnerships on the horizon. |
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Our team contributed to the knowledge exchange through presentations, casestudies, and interactive Q&A sessions. With a focus on intellectual property in themedia and entertainment sector, our members explored innovative approaches,strategies, and best practices to address evolving challenges.
We are thankful to the Inventicon Business Intelligence Pvt. Ltd. for organizing asuccessful and enriching event. The summit provided a valuable platform forcollaboration and staying abreast of industry developments. Here's to the excitingventures that lie ahead! |
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| Leadership Legacy |
India scored a milestone as the Indian Patent Office granted a staggering 41,010 patents during the fiscal year 2023 to 2024. This milestone, as of November 15, 2023, represents the highest number of patents ever awarded in India.
Patents granted were 4,227 for FY 2013 to 2014, climbing to 28,385 for FY 2021 to 2022. It leapt further to 34,153 for FY 2022 to 2023.
India also played a key role in the increase of patent filings worldwide in 2022, from 3.40 million in 2021 to 3.46 million the year after.
According to the latest World Intellectual Property Indicators Report, India recorded an increase of 31.6 percent in the number of applications filed by residents from 2021 to 2022, contributing to the global rise in patent applications. |
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MONTHLY NEWSLETTER
DECEMBER 2023 |
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| A Case of alleged Misplaced Jurisdiction |
| -From the Desk of Dr. Mohan Dewan |
The recent Delhi High Court case involving Banyan Tree Holdings Ltd. (Banyan Tree) against Angsana Thai Spa (ATS) raises an interesting question regarding jurisdiction. While I agree with the Court’s decision wherein it granted a permanent injunction in favour of Banyan Tree against ATS for using the mark "ANGSANA", I have certain reservations concerning the aspect of the jurisdiction.
Brief Facts of the case:
Banyan Tree Holdings Limited the Plaintiff, (Banyan Tree) is a part of the Accor Group of Hotels. It is a Singapore based entity. Banyan Tree owns the registered trademark ‘ANGSANA’ in India since 2000. It is seen that Banyan Tree conducts its business in India through “Angsana Oasis Spa & Resort” located in Bengaluru; however, Banyan Tree does not have any spa or resort in Delhi. Therefore, it can be said that Banyan Tree is not doing any business under the mark “ANGSANA” within the jurisdiction of theDelhi High Court.
Banyan Tree was aggrieved by the fact that ATS was using the mark “ANGSANA”. Banyan Tree filed a suit in the Delhi High Court.
The term “ANGSANA” is native to Sanskrit language in which the word ‘Ang’ means body and ‘Aasana’ means a relaxed self-aware posture.
However, it is presumed that for legal convenience Banyan Tree filed a suit and sought injunction against ATS, in the Delhi High Court. Banyan Tree argued that the spa had an online presence and used the "ANGSANA" trademark on their website which was accessible in Delhi and therefore potentially caused confusion and harm to their reputation. |
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MONTHLY NEWSLETTER
DECEMBER 2023 |
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| The Delhi High Court, while accepting jurisdiction, considered the “accessibility of evidence and witnesses”, as a core reason. The Court, in its wisdom considered Delhi to be a convenient forum for both parties in spite of the fact that the Defendant was carrying on business only in Bengaluru and that the Plaintiff had only one outlet again in Bangalore. Therefore, the decision of the Delhi High Court to consider Delhi as a convenient forum is to say the least, surprising! On 23/12/2022 the Court was pleased togrant an an ex parte ad interim against the Defendants from using the mark ‘Angsana Thai Spa’, and ordered for locking, blocking, and suspending the domain nameangsanathaispabangalore.com. The records don’t show that the Plaintiff had produced any evidence which establishes that any person in Delhi had even enquired or availed of the Defendant’s services. The Defendants did not contest, however it appears that the listing for ATS continued on Just Dial, which is an organization onwhich a listing cannot be controlled. |
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| Thereafter, Banyan Tree filed an application under Order XIII-A CPC and sought for a summary judgement. The Court passed a decree of summary judgment and permanently restrained Defendants from using the mark ‘Angsana’. The Court also ordered for removal of Defendant’s listing on Just Dial and awarded Rs. 12,82,580 as actual costs to the Plaintiff and directed the domain name www.angsanathaispabangalore.com to be transferred to Banyan Tree |
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Critical Analysis:
The primary issue to be considered in this case is whether the Delhi High Court had jurisdiction to adjudicate upon a trademark infringement case filed by Banyan Tree against ATS, operating in Bengaluru. I have no issue with the Courts ultimate finding that the Defendant was violating the Plaintiff’s registered Trademark. However, some aspects need to be taken with a pinch of salt:
1. Limited Territorial Jurisdiction and Lack of Territorial Nexus: ATS is located and operates only in Bangalore, Karnataka. In my humble opinion merely having a website that is accessible in Delhi or advertising or posting on social media might not establisha strong enough presence to justify a lawsuit in the Delhi High Court. Section 134 of the Trade Marks Act, 1999 provides that a suit for trademark infringement or passing off can be brought before a Court having jurisdiction;
·where the plaintiff resides/carries on business or
·where the defendant resides/carries on business or
·where the cause of action arises
In the present case, none of these limbs of jurisdiction appear to be satisfied: The Plaintiff is a Singapore based entity, and has only one business activity in Bangalore in India; The Defendant resides and carries on business in Bangalore; it has not offered any services outside Bangalore. Therefore the cause of action arises solely in Bangalore.
2.
This is a classic case of forum Non Conveniens: Forum Non Conveniens is a legal term that refers to a Court’s power to decline jurisdiction over a case when another forum would be more convenient or appropriate for the resolution of the dispute. It is often used in cases where the parties involved are located in different jurisdictions, or where the subject matter of the case has little connection to the forum where the case was initially filed. Section 20 of the CPC allows courts to decline jurisdiction if it is an inconvenient forum. In the present case, the Plaintiff itself has a presence andoperates in Bengaluru without any tangible business activity in Delhi, and moreover Bengaluru is where, the alleged infringement has primarily occurred. Hence, the Bangalore District Court would be the most convenient forum for trying this case. Filing the lawsuit in Delhi might be seen as an attempt to forum-shop for a potentially more favourable outcome. |
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MONTHLY NEWSLETTER
DECEMBER 2023 |
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3.
Burden and Potential Prejudice to the Defendant: Forcing ATS to contest in Delhi may be seen as an unwarranted burden. Litigating in Delhi away from its home base and also surprisingly away from the home base of the Plaintiff could have put ATS “as well as” the Plaintiff at a disadvantage in terms of resource access and witness availability.
4.
Ignoring Supreme Court Precedents: The Delhi High Court's decision to accept jurisdiction seems to deviate from established Supreme Court precedents like "New Holland Tractors (India) Ltd. v. M.S. Agrotrac & Anr." (2013) and "S.L. Malhotra & Co. v. Maharaja Dharmendra Singhji & Anr." (2020) which have emphasized the importance of proper territorial jurisdiction in trademark infringement matters.
This judgment highlights the complexities of jurisdictional issues in trademark disputes and if upheld, could set a negative precedent for future trademark infringement cases, potentially encouraging forum shopping and unnecessary litigation burden on Defendants. A more nuanced analysis of Section 134 of the Trade Marks Act, 1999 and its interplay with Section 20 of the Code of Civil Procedure, 1908, along with an evaluation of the specific facts of the case, could have provided a more robust foundation for a proper jurisdictional decision. |
| Significance of Film Title Registration with Industry Authorities in order to claim ownership |
| In the case of SV Rajendra Singh Babu v The President, Karnataka Film Chambers of Commerce, the plaintiff, S Rajendra Singh Babu, a film producer and director with a portfolio encompassing approximately 45 movies in Kannada and other languages, alleged to have directed a Kannada film titled 'Bannada Gejje.' Within this film, he utilized a well-known song titled "Swathi Muttina Male Haniye." The plaintiff asserted that he initiated the production of a Kannada movie bearing the same title, "Swathi Muttina Male Haniye," which unfortunately remained unfinished due to the untimely demise of one of the lead actors, Ambareesh. |
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The plaintiff claimed to have completed seventy percent of the movie and emphasizes that he duly registered the title "Swathi Muttina Male Haniye" with the Karnataka Film Chamber of Commerce (KFCC). Additionally, he issued a legal notice to KFCC, urging them not to authorize the title for use by others.
Applebox Studios LLP, on the other hand, in their application sought impleadment and vacation of the stay, said that the production house had already completed making the movie and it would soon be released. It was also submitted that the rights to the movie were vested with Sri Jagadguru Movies and not Babu, and that the rights were lawfully transferred to them as well as duly registered with the KFCC. Meanwhile, producer BK Gangadhar had the title registered with the KFCC and expressed his willingness to transfer the rights to Ramya, who launched her maiden project with the same title. Following this, Babu averred that the film body had no right to allow the transfer of title which, in reality, is rightfully and legally his.
The primary issue before the City Civil and Sessions Court, Bengaluru pertained to whether an injunction should be granted to prevent the release of the Kannada film "Swathi Muttina Male Haniye," produced by Applebox Studios LLP. The Court was tasked with deciding whether to vacate the previously granted ex-parte temporary injunction in favor of the plaintiff, as it determined that he failed to establish a primafacie case. The plaintiff's inability to furnish concrete evidence of copyright ownership for a single line of a song title is a key factor. Moreover, the Court emphasized that the use of a song title as a movie title does not constitute copyright infringement. Additionally, the plaintiff could not verify the registration of the title with the appropriate authority.
The Court, in its assessment, found that the balance of convenience and comparative hardship favoured the defendants. The defendants had completed their movie and were on the verge of releasing it, while the plaintiff's movie remained incomplete. Allowing the release of the completed movie would not cause hardship to the plaintiff, and any potential damages could be addressed through compensation if the plaintiff succeeded in the suit. Further more, the Court noted that copyright protection is generally accorded to original works, and that the title of a song alone may not qualify as a complete work for copyright protection. Precedent also supports the notion that using a song title as a movie title does not amount to copyright infringement. |
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MONTHLY NEWSLETTER
DECEMBER 2023 |
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| Ultimately, the Court determined that the plaintiff failed to establish a prima facie case for copyright ownership of a song title. The failure to demonstrate the registration of the title and the inability to prove that the single line of the song title qualified as copyright material were pivotal factors. Moreover, it was observed that preventing the release of the defendants' completed movie would inflict greater loss and hardship on them than on the plaintiff. Consequently, the court ruled in favor of the defendants and vacated the injunction, permitting the release of the Kannada film "Swathi Muttina Male Haniye." |
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Dabur India Ltd. v. Advertising Standards Council of India and Anr (Delhi High Court)
An appeal was filed against the respondent’s order restraining the appellant from publishing its advertisement on the ground that the latter’s claim of its tooth paste being “world’s no. 1 ayurvedic toothpaste” is misleading. The courtheld that puffery in advertisements is allowed as long as the assertions made are reasonable. The court further held that the respondent should have given some credence to the evidence filed by the appellant before it, backing its above claim, and thus allowed the Plaintiff to advertise its product with the modification ‘world’s leading ayurvedic paste” instead of “No. 1ayurvedic paste”. |
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Societe Des Produits Nestles.A vs Mohd Zahid And Sons & Ors.
This lawsuit for counterfeit sale, initiated by Nestle Group in 2014, has now expanded to over 200 defendants. Under the 2014 order, over 212 defendants have been decreed against and paid Rs.6,000/- as damages. Given that over a decade has passed and the list of defendants kept on increasing, the order acquired status of a John Doe order. The court observed the ineffectiveness of the process so far and has permanently restrained all defendants from selling counterfeit Nescafe products. The court also kept the option of impleading more defendants open by directing the Plaintiff to file an affidavit before the joint registrar thereafter a local commission may be executed upon the satisfaction of the joint registrar. The matter is listed for May 2024 next to consider whether the suit needs to be continued or not. |
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DECEMBER 2023 |
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Bentley Systems Inc & Anr vs Engineers Diagnostic Centre Pvt. Ltd. (Delhi High Court)
This suit for copyright infringement by was filed by Bentley Systems Inc. and Bentley Systems India Pvt. Ltd against the defendants for use of pirated versions of structural engineering software, PLAXIS 2D and PLAXIS 3D. The Plaintiffs confirmed 36 pirated software versions being used through `phone home’ technology, a cyber-security mechanism that ensures compliance with End User License Agreement (‘EULA’) despite the defendants evading detection through VPN. The Plaintiffs have issued notices and reached out for mediation which failed, thus this suit for interim injunction. The court found prima facie case against the defendants passed injunction restraining use of said court observed the ineffectiveness of the process so far and has permanently restrained all defendants from selling counterfeit Nescafe products. |
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Scotch Whisky Association vs J. K. Enterprises on 18 December, 2023 (Madhya Pradesh High Court).
The Plaintiff, being the Registered Proprietor (RP) on the instance of whom the Geographical Indication (GI) of Scotchwhisky was granted, contended that the RP alone, withoutthe Authorised User (AU) being impleaded, could successfullyfile a suit. The court agreed, noting that the RP is anindependent entity under the GI Act and is not subordinate tothe AU. |
Calcutta High Court Notifies Proposed Intellectual Property Rights
In a much anticipated development, after Delhi and Madras High Courts, the Hon’ble CalcuttaHigh Court has also notified its proposed draft Rules for ‘INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY RIGHTSDIVISION RULES OF THE HIGH COURT AT CALCUTTA’ vide notification dated December 19,2023.
Vide the same notification, the Hon’ble Court has invited comments and suggestions from the members of the Bar and other stakeholders.
The proposed IP Rules are meant to govern pending cases before Calcutta’s Courts Intellectual Property Rights Division (hereinafter referred to as the IPRD) and Intellectual Property Rights Appellate Division (hereinafter referred to as the IPRAD).
The said draft rules are similar to the Delhi High Court Intellectual Property Rights Division Rules, 2022 and interestingly Rule 2(a) of the proposed rules also includes the Information Technology Act, 2000 besides other IP acts like Copyright Act, Designs Act, Trade Marks Act, etc.
As per Rule 4 & 5 of the proposed Rules, the Chief Justice of the Calcutta High Court will nominate judges who will preside over IPRD and IPRAD. The rules also mention that the judges that will be appointed for IPRD and IPRAD shall preferably have experience in dealing with IP matters |
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Further, the Calcutta High Court has also proposed establishing Intellectual Property Rights Division Department, which will be a special division to look after the administration and management of all proceedings under the IPRD and the IPRAD.
Chapter Three of the Rules provides detailed provisions for dealing with Intellectual Property Proceedings such as procedure when the matter is being transferred fromerst while IPAB, procedure when suit is filed in the High Court after the effective date and proceedings, etc. Chapter IV and V of the Rules, provides for General and Miscellaneous provisions for regulating proceedings under these Rules.
Further, Rules also have notified the following Schedules:
Schedule I: Nomenclatures for the matters to be governed by IPRD and IPRAD;
Schedule II: Forms for filing Applications, Petitions, Complaints, Appeal under these Rules;
Schedule III: Official Fees for filing Applications, Petitions, Complaints, Appeal underthese Rules which is varying from Rs. 5,000 to Rs. 10,000.
The proposed rules are aiming to address various aspects of intellectual property litigation, potentially impacting procedures, timelines, and the overall adjudicatory process, and it is expected that rules would improve the IP landscape before the Hon’ble Calcutta High Court. |
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| IPR Quiz |
A. Which of the following is not included in designs under the Designs Act?
1.
Color
2.
Shape
3.
Configuration
4.
Pattern |
B. What is the period in which provisional specifications have to be completed?
1. 10 moths
2. 12 months
3. 8 months
4. 6 months |
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C. Which Indian state is known for the geographical indication (GI)" Kancheepuram Silk Sari" ?
1. West Bengal
2. Karnataka
3. Tamil Nadu
4. Kerela |
D. Provisional specifications to include
1. Disadvantage of prior art
2. Description
3. Both
4. Neither |
| (Answers at the end of the Newsletter) |
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| Unsung Heroes & Heroines - Acharya Prafulla Chandra Ray: Father of Indian Chemistry |
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| Unsung heroes & heroines, often hidden in the shadows, are the individuals whose remarkable contributions and selfless actions shape the world. While the world celebrates prominent figures, it is the unsung heroes & heroines who quietly work behind the scenes, driving change, progress, and compassion. These unheralded champions emerge in various walks of life, from the local communities to global stages, leaving an indelible mark on society. Their stories inspire us to appreciate thepower of humility and the profound impact that individuals can have on the world, regardless of the recognition they receive. In this series of articles, we will be sharing stories of such unsung heroes & heroines of India. |
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Acharya Prafulla Chandra Ray, CIE, FNI, FRASB, FIAS, FCS, is one such unsung hero. He was a pioneering Indian chemist, educationist, industrialist, historian, and philanthropist whose unparalleled contributions forged a path for modern Indian science.
Born on August 2, 1861, in the village of Raruli-Katipara, Khulna, the then part of the Bengal Presidency in British India, now in present-day Bangladesh, Ray's early life was shaped by a family environment that valued education and progress. His father, Harish Chandra Raychowdhury, a landowner, received a modern education-a pivotal step inRay's lineage towards embracing modern education.
Harish Chandra's progressive beliefs led him to advocate for English-medium education and women's education in his village. These values deeply influenced Ray, who, after a brief illness, moved to Calcutta in 1876 to pursue his education further. His educational journey took him through institutions shaped by influential figures like Keshub Chandra Sen, Ishwar Chandra Vidyasagar, and Surendranath Banerjee, individuals whose ideals left an indelible mark on Ray's vision for India's rejuvenation and service.
Initially drawn to history and literature, Ray's path veered towards chemistry during his education at the Metropolitan Institution, which was later renamed Vidyasagar College. He attended physics and chemistry lectures as an external student at the Presidency College. It was there that he encountered Alexander Pedler, an inspiring lecturer, and experimentalist. Captivated by experimental science, Ray set his sights on chemistry as his career, recognizing the pivotal role scientific progress would play in India's future.
His academic journey led him to the University of Edinburgh in 1882, where he studied chemistry under eminent scholars such as Alexander Crum Brown and John Gibson. His doctoral studies delved into the realm of inorganic chemistry, focusingon structural affinities in double salts. His ground breaking work challenged existing scientific understanding, particularly in the domain of double sulfates, a contentious area in the scientific community at the time. He obtained B. Sc in 1986 and the D. Scin 1887, and was awarded the Hope Prize in the University. He was also elected as the Vice President of the Edinburg University Chemical Society in 1888. |
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In 1895, he discovered the stable compound of mercury, Mercurous nitrite. This discovery opened avenues for extensive research on nitrites and hyponitrites of various metals. His experiments and subsequent discoveries in the field of ammonium and alkylammonium nitrites added significant depth to the understanding of these compounds, earning him the nickname “Master of Nitrites”. Authored more than 150 original research articles, he is widely revered as the “Father of Indian Chemistry”.
His academic contribution made him awarded the imperial Title of CIE (Companion of Indian Empire), as well as a Knighthood back in 1919. A further recognition came in the following year 1920, when he was elected as the General President of the Indian Science Congress.
Ray's pursuit of knowledge was an exploration that intertwined with a passion for research and discovery. Ray's interests, however, weren't confined to chemistry or even academia alone; his voracious appetite for knowledge extended to history, political science, and literature. His critical essay "India before and after the Mutiny" drew widespread attention and commendation, showcasing his early concerns about the British Raj's reactionary attitudes.
Like many other visionaries of the then Bengal or even other parts of India, Ray’s mind was occupied by higher thoughts and ideas regarding the spiritual realm, which led him to write a book “ATMACHARIT”, i.e., “The Nature of the Soul”, available even today. Further, he wrote “The History of Hindu Chemistry” in 1902 to highlight the contribution of India to Chemistry, also traditionally known as “Rasayana Sashtra”.
Ray’s bowel condition made him survive on a very restrictive diet, predominantly comprised of puffed rice, a traditional produce of the Eastern region of India. Ray used to term this as “Indian Biscuit”, and talked about catering information regarding the same, which, however, didn’t materialize. It was painful for Ray to see the apathy of the Bengali youths towards business and overall entrepreneurship. Being an academician, his journey towards entrepreneurship officially started whenhe established the Bengal Chemicals & Pharmaceuticals Ltd. (BCPL) in the year 1901, which would become India’s first government-owned pharmaceutical manufacturing company, after taking over post-independence, after the sad demise of this great soul in 1944. Bengal Chemicals wasn’t established for earning profit or devoting to mere capital growth, rather, it was the vision of Ray to found an industry in Bengal to inspire the Bengali youth, who were otherwise unmotivated in entrepreneurship. |
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Renowned for his thoroughness and pioneering research, Ray's contribution extended beyond laboratories and companies. He founded the Indian School of Chemistry in 1924, leaving an indelible mark on chemical research in India. His commitment to academia and research continued even after his formal retirement, as evidenced by his altruistic gesture of donating his entire salary to further chemical research at Calcutta University. According to sources, he used to donate nine-tenths of his salary regularly.
However, Ray's legacy isn't merely confined to scientific and entrepreneurial accomplishments. A staunch nationalist and patriot, he sympathized with revolutionaries and indirectly supported their cause during India's struggle for independence. His commitment to the advancement of Indian science and society was recognized through various honors and orders, showcasing the impact of his multidimensional contributions. The Royal Society of Chemistry paid tribute to his life and achievements by awarding him the first Chemical Landmark Plaque outside Europe.
Acharya Prafulla Chandra Ray was more than a chemist—he was a visionary whose relentless pursuit of knowledge and progress not only elevated Indian science but also encapsulated the essence of an era defined by scholarly dedication, scientific curiosity, and unwavering patriotism. His pioneering spirit, unparalleled inquisitiveness, and dedication continue to inspire generations of scientists, leaving an enduring legacy that transcends boundaries and time. The Government named several roads in Kolkata after him and also issued a postage stamp after him in 1961, yet the indelible contribution of this visionary has somehow faded in history. |
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| Hidden Gems on India – Maravanthe |
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| Welcome to a journey of discovery and wonder as we embark on a series of blogs that unveil the enigmatic and uncharted realms of India. In a country as vast and diverse as India, the troves of hidden gems and lesser-known marvels remain scattered like secrets waiting to be unravelled. Beyond the renowned landmarks and bustling metropolises, lie the hidden places that encapsulate India's rich tapestry of culture, history, and natural beauty. Our series of blogs is your passport to a world where ancient temples, forgotten caves, serene lakes, and mystical forests come to life. Join us as we delve deep into the heart of this incredible nation, shedding light on the obscure, the mystical, and the rarely explored corners of India. Each blog will be aportal to these hidden treasures, offering insights, anecdotes, and practical tips for those intrepid travellers and culture enthusiasts who seek the extraordinary and the untraded paths that India has to offer. Prepare to be captivated, inspired, and enthralled as we unveil India's hidden wonders, one blog at a time. |
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Maravanthe, a small town nestled in the Udupi district of Karnataka, wears the look of a fairyland, with the picturesque Kodachadri Hills forming a backdrop to the Sauparnika River while the white sands of the beach take center stage.
Nestled between the Arabian Sea and the Souparnika River, Maravanthe is uniquely positioned in Coastal Karnataka offering a combination, that is one of its kind in India. The beach is frequently referred to as the “Virgin Beach” due to the long swath of miles-long white sand shore. It has drawn many an explorer and tourists owing to its unparalleled beauty.
This pristine beach is situated in the culturally rich district of Udupi. This district is renowned for its vibrant culture. Udupi boasts a cultural richness evident in various folk dances, dance dramas, religious festivities, and art forms showcased during city-wide celebrations. Renowned for its unique culinary offerings, Udupi cuisine distinguishes itself from traditional South Indian fare by adhering to the Satvik discipline and omitting ingredients like onion, garlic, meat, fish, eggs, and shellfish-anadherence embraced by many communities. Despite its predominantly vegetarian focus, Udupi also presents a delectable array of non-vegetarian dishes reminiscent of Mangalorean cuisine, including delights such as Kori Roti, Neer Dosa, Kori Pulimunchi, Chicken Sukka, Fish Curry, and Fish Fry.
A trip to Maravanthe Beach not only exposes one to the beauty of the confluence of the beach and the Souparnika River but also to the Kodachadri Hills which offer a great trekking experience for adventure enthusiasts, providing stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Maravanthe allows its visitors to experience the local culture of the Karnataka. Maravanthe Beach is not just a destination for a day trip but a perfect getaway for those looking to unwind by the sea.
While visiting this pristine beach, there are numerous activities to indulge in and experiences to savour. The National Highway 66 traverses through the mesmerizing landscape between the Arabian Sea and the Souparnika River, providing an unparalleled view. For beach enthusiasts, the beach offers a delightful space toengage in spirited activities along the shoreline. The charming shops lining the highway offer an opportunity to indulge in the local flavours and enjoy the fresh coconuts. In the evenings, one can witness the breath-taking spectacle of the sunsetover the Arabian Sea. For a cultural touch, one can visit the Maraswamy Temple, which is situated just across the road. Boating across the Souparnika River is also a wonderful way to relax and enjoy nature’s bounty resplendent in Karnataka. |
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NEWSNET
MONTHLY NEWSLETTER
DECEMBER 2023 |
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The Maravanthe beach is very well connected. It is approximately 420 km from the state capital Bengaluru and 105 km from Mangaluru, the nearest airport. The Kundapura railway station, 20 km away, is the closest rail connection. Travelers can also opt for taxis from Kundapura town to reach Maravanthe Beach. Excellent publicand private transportation options are available from any of the coastal Karnatakatowns to reach Maravan the Beach with the nearest airport being the Mangalore International Airport.
Maravan the Beach is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Karnataka. With its stunning natural beauty, water sports activities, and nearby attractions, the beach offers something for everyone. |
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| Decoding Delicious Delicacies - "Makke ki Roti with Sarson ka Saag" |
When it comes to food, the name of a dish holds meaning beyond just identification. The name of a dish can give insight into the history behind it, the ingredients used, or even the cultural significance it holds. In this series of blogs, we will explore the history behind famous Indian dishes.
In the heartland of Indo-gangetic plain, India, where agriculture thrives and traditions run deep, Makke ki Roti and Sarson ka Saag stand as a testament to the rich cultural delicacy that defines the region. Originating from the states of Punjab, Haryana, and parts of Himachal Pradesh, this iconic duo represents more than just a meal – it encapsulates the spirit of rural life, agricultural abundance, and the artistry of traditional cooking. |
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MONTHLY NEWSLETTER
DECEMBER 2023 |
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Makke di Roti
At the core of this gastronomic experience is Makke ki Roti, a flat bread made from maize flour (cornmeal). The use of maize in this dish not only reflects the agrarian roots of the dish but also adds a distinct nutty flavor to the roti.
In the beginning, cornmeal is mixed with water to form dough, and the challenge lies in achieving the right consistency – not too dry, not too sticky. Then one has to adeptly pat the dough into making round discs, which are then cooked on a hot griddle typically on a coal stove (chula). The rustic charm of Makke ki Roti lies in its imperfections, each roti is unique in shape and thickness, and a reflection of the hands that crafted it.
Sarson ka Saag
The term “Saag” originates from the Sanskrit word “Shaak (śāka)” meaning fresh leafy green vegetables. In the process of making Sarson ka Saag, Mustard leaves are meticulously cleaned, finely chopped, and cooked to perfection. The magic happens when these leaves are blended with other fresh green leafy vegetables such as spinach (palak), fenugreek (methi), pigweed (bathua), coriander (dhaniya) to mask the inherent bitterness of Sarson (mustard leaves). These leaves are boiled in hot water and then pounded for hours, usually with green chilies, ginger, or garlic. Subsequently, these leaves are ground on the stone to create a coarse paste,this enhances the traditional flavor and retains their fiber. This paste is sautéed in oil, turmeric, and ground red chili powder. A dollop of ghee is added towards the end. It should be eaten fresh within 2 hours of preparation and never refrigerated. The slow cooking process allows the greens to release their essence, resulting in a dish that is not just a mere accompaniment buta star in its own right. No less integral to this culinary saga is Sarson ka Saag, a dish made from mustard greens. It’s a celebration of winter greens when the fields are adorned with lush mustard plants, their leaves bursting with flavor. |
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NEWSNET
MONTHLY NEWSLETTER
DECEMBER 2023 |
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The Perfect Union
The pairing of Makke ki Roti and Sarson ka Saag is nothing short of a culinary marriage made in heaven. The duo is often served with a dollop of homemade butter or ghee, elevating the meal to a sensory experience that transcends taste.
Beyond its culinary allure, this traditional combination carries historical significance. It has been a staple in the diet of farmers, providing them with the necessary energy and nutrition to toil in the fields. Not only arethe roti and the saag a treat for the taste buds, but they also offer several healthbenefits. Mustard greens are packed with nutrients like Vitamin A, C, and K, as well as fiber and antioxidants. Cornmeal is a good source of dietary fibre and contains essentialminerals like iron and magnesium, apart from protein. In Punjab and Haryana thesedishes are not just about food; they are celebration of culture, tradition, and togetherness. They are particularly associated with the festival of Lohri, which is celebrated amid the winter solstice. During this Festival Families and friends gather around bonfires and enjoy the flavors and share stories, creating lasting memories
Evolution in Modern Kitchen
While rooted in tradition, Makke ki Roti andSarson ka Saag have not remaineduntouched by the winds of change. Inmodern kitchens, one might find variationsthat incorporate contemporary twistswithout compromising the essence of thedish.
Yet, even with these changes, its soulremains firmly tied to its rural origins. Theauthenticity of the dish lies in its simplicity,reminding us of the connection betweenthe land, the farmer, and the plate. |
Beyond Borders
In recent years, Makke ki Roti and Sarson ka Saag have transcended regional boundaries, finding a place on menus across the countryand even internationally. The unique combination of flavors and the wholesome, comforting nature of the dish have garnereda global fan base.
Indian restaurants around the world proudly feature this rustic delicacy, introducing food enthusiasts to the diverse and vibrant culinary landscape of India. The journey from the fields of Punjab to the global palate is at estament to the universal appeal of a meal that carries with it the warmth and authenticity of Indian hospitality.
A Culinary Legacy
Makki ki Roti and Sarso ka Saag, beyond being a delightful gastronomic experience, embody the essence of Indian culture -rooted, diverse, and evolving.
In the ever-changing landscape of culinary trends, Makki ki Roti and Sarso ka Saagst and tall as a reminder that some traditions are timeless. In each bite, there is a story of the fields, the hands that nurture the crops, and the joy of coming together over a mealthat speaks the language of the land. As we indulge in this culinary symphony, we become part of a legacy that transcends generations, celebrating the richness of rurallife and the flavors that define it.
So next time if you savor a plate of makki ki roti and sarson ka saag, remember that you are not just enjoying a delicious meal but also a piece of history and tradition. It’s adelightful way to connect with the roots of Punjab and experience the flavors that havestood the test of time. |
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NEWSNET
MONTHLY NEWSLETTER
DECEMBER 2023 |
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JANUARY 2024 |
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