March 09 2016, 21.49 PM IST || Pocket News Alert
Mumbai, March 9, 2016: Kanakia Art Foundation’s Mumbai Meri Jaan initiated yet another unique concept this year by opening ‘Zillion Gallery’ to the common Mumbaikars. The photo contest received overwhelming response through exceptional photo entries showcasing Mumbaiwalas viz. Autowalas, Dabbawalas, Sabziwalas, Chaiwalas, Idliwalas, Doodhwala, Laundrywalas, etc., outstanding contribution to this vibrant city. 3 Lakh + people engaged with 27,427 entries from diverse individuals were received during Mumbai Meri Jaan event. The photographs of these Mumbaiwalas captured by our very own Mumbaikars were placed at Kanakia Zillion Gallery, a landmark of city’s unique and innovative Photo Gallery, located at Kanakia Zillion, BKC Annexe in Mumbai.
Commenting on the response Atul Kasbekar, an ace celebrity photographer who also judged photos said, “Promoting artistes for their exceptional talent in the field of poetry, photography, dramatics, dance etc. is amongst the core activities of Kanakia Art foundation. Mumbai Meri Jaan photo contest is yet another unique initiative conceptualised by the foundation, where a common Mumbaikar through photos has honoured the contribution of Mumbaiwalas for serving the city, day in and day out. India’s biggest photo gallery “Zillion Gallery”, spread across 700 Mts provides a platform to aspiring talent where they can showcase their work to the world”.
Radhika Shah, an S.Y.BCOM student, was excited to see her ‘Taxiwala’s’ picture at the Zillion Gallery. Commenting on the occasion she said, “I am very pleased that my picture is showcased at India’s biggest Photo Gallery. Photography is my passion and I am glad that my talent got noticed by visitors amongst thousands of pictures put up in the event. Like me, there are many who have explored opportunity of showcasing their talent through this platform and we thank the organisers for giving us the chance. Also through this unique initiative we were able to thank people who serve us in our day to day life”.
Delighted to see the response from the Mumbaikars for this unique initiative, Mr. Himanshu B. Kanakia, Managing Director, Kanakia Group said, “The ‘Mumbaiwalas’, not only strive hard to provide the best possible services to the citizens, but they also have a fair share in the growth, status and prosperity of Mumbai. These ‘Mumbaiwalas’ deserve appreciation and recognition for their seamless, timely services and for strengthening the economic and social fabric of the city. I am very glad that over lakhs of people have connected in our initiative and over 27,000 people showcased their talent in thanking the heroes for making our lives easy and we extend our gratitude for their support; by clicking fabulous pictures of these ‘Mumbaiwalas’ in action.”
The event provided a grand award function to felicitate the top pictures of the Mumbai Heroes (Walas) captured by the 27k + citizens. Visitors were welcomed by a huge replica of Mumbai’s modern icon ‘Bandra-Worli sea link’ on arrival. A 6ft Dabba (lunchbox) representing the Dabbawalas of Mumbai was installed, a life size Kettle representing the famous Chaiwala of Mumbai along with the Mumbai Auto Rickshaw and the infamous Doodhwala on a cycle. Mumbai’s past was represented by the famous ‘Victoria Baggi’ that moved around the arena providing visitors a unique experience. Dharavi Rocks the famous band from Dharavi was the highlight of the event. Their Live performance provided entertainment to the guests at the event.
