Since Covid-19 mental health has become a buzzword. When you visit news sites, read news papers, watch television or scroll through social media messages published by celebrities and influencers. There will be topics related to mental health. Especially celebrities speak out much more often about their mental health struggles. Now, the question is what is mental health and how can we deal with mental health issues in these difficult times?
Indrani Datta is a specialist in Kalka Bindadin Gharana of Kathak which hails from Lucknow. It is led by legendary Pandit Birju Maharaj and his disciple Vidushi Saswati Sen at Kalashram in Delhi. She is also a legal professional within an in-house counsel team for an international law firm.
Anuja Chandramouli is a bestselling author and new age Indian classicist from India. Her debut novel, Arjuna: Saga of a Pandava Warrior-Prince, was named as one of the top 5 sellers In the Indian writing category for the year 2012 by Amazon India. She recently launched the Mahabharata with Anuja series on YouTube and released her latest book, Mohini: The Enchantress, my exploration of one of the most fascinating LGBTQ characters in Indian mythology.
Prewien Pandohi-Mishre is a vocalist, specialized in Indian classical and spiritual, Bhakti music. He is the founder of Rasique music school and teaches at SKVR in Rotterdam. Prewien is not only a great teacher and singer, but he also composes music for cultural organizations. Currently he is working on a devotional piece.
Jenny Bhatt is a writer, literary translator, book critic, and the host of the Desi Books podcast. In 2020, she had a critically acclaimed debut short story collection out titled Each of Us Killers. Jenny also had a well-received debut literary translation (from Gujarati to English), released titled Ratno Dholi: The Best Stories of Dhumketu.
Neelam Matadin was only 8 years old when her uncle discovered her talent for singing. When she was 12 she performed together with Baitak Gana legend Kries Ramkhelawan. And since five years she is part of a Surinamese music band named Freestyle, where she sings popular Bollywood cover songs. Neelam’s music is loved by millions and with her voice she stole hearts in several countries Guyana, Curacao, Indonesia, Netherlands and India.
Nandita Shankardass is a UK based performing dance artist, choreographer and teacher. She is currently creating her own work from home. The foundation of her art finds it’s roots in awareness, current affairs and issues, which we as a human race have ignored for far too long. Humankind has inspired Nandita this year to stand up and speak out through her dance.
Who doesn’t know DJ Insane aka Marcel in The Netherlands? He is not only the most respected Desi DJ, but also a producer and label manager and that for 20 years! Over the years he worked with international stars such as Apache Indian, Daler Mehndi, Jay Sean, Rishi Rich, Himesh Reshammiya, Kumar Sanu and Bally Sagoo. Recently he released a mixtape and is working on a Bhangra remix for a British record label. His hectic life and playing gigs in clubs and festivals ended once the government announced a lockdown.
The 515 Crew is the best Bollywood band in Europe. Since 2010 they have toured with well-known British Asian Artists such as Navin Kundra, Taz Stereo Nation and they are the live band for Indian Idol UK. They gave three unforgettable concerts for DesiYUP. UK based musical director, pianist and producer Hinal Pattani remembers the events of this decade and is very proud of the band’s achievements. Although this year has been strange and sad, it was also beautiful and a blessing in disguise all rolled into one big emotional ball for him.
