Upcoming Events

*Transparency vs. Privacy in the Digital Age: Understanding the implications of the DPDP Act*

ASEEM, The Democracy Dialogue and Lamakaan is hosting a discussion on On: *25th April 2025 (Friday)*
time: *5:00 PM*
at *Lamakaan, Banjara Hills*, Hyderabad to critically examine the impact of the DPDP Act on the right to Information act and increasing digitisation of public records, and conducting surveys and collection of personnel information, particularly in Telangana.

We invite you to join this important discussion by a dynamic panelists including
- *Anjali Bhardwaj*, Social activist and NCPRI,
- ⁠*Srinivas Kodali*, Independent researcher

The intersection of data privacy, government transparency, and public welfare is becoming increasingly crucial, especially as digital tools are widely used to manage welfare programs and services. It is essential that we critically examine the potential misuse or exploitation of personal information by government agencies under the guise of service delivery and make the state accountable for their actions.

Please join us for an evening of Hindustani Classical Music featuring solo harmonium performance by Shri Rahul Deshpande. He will be accompanied on Tabla by Shri Shrikant Bhatlavande. The event will be held at Lamakaan on Friday 25th April 7:30 pm. This is a free event and all are welcome.

About the Artists:
Rahul Deshpande is a Harmonium Player in the Hindustani Classical genre, performing as an Accompanist and a Solo Harmonium Player. He is a disciple of Late Smt. Ranjana Godse and Late Pt. Appasaheb Jalgaonkar, and has rendered solo performances across India and live on Social Media, and accompanied many stalwarts in India and Americas. He is also currently pursuing vocal music training under the tutelage of Pt. Vajendra Ashrit.

Shrikant Bhatlavande is an accomplished Tabla Player and performs as both Accompanist and Soloist. He is a disciple of his Father Late Pt. Nandakumar (senior disciple of Ustaad Sheik Dawood Saheb) and Late Pt. Suresh Bhai Gaitonde, Mumbai. He has accompanied many great musicians and given solo performances.

Chehre


Remember the song, "Kitaabein bohot si padhi hongi tumne..." from the superhit movie Baazigar? Am sure, you must have! Both this meetup as well as the title are inspired by this evergreen song - evergreen, especially for the 90s kids.

Join us for this immersive and transformative event - 'Chehre', where real people like you and I are treated as books, unknown yet feel a close association with, because end of the day, all our experiences are different, yet so similar! In this one-of-a-kind library, you `borrow` individuals for insightful tête-à-tête, in-depth engagement that uncovers the layers of their life narratives. This event is designed to promote understanding, challenge stereotypes, and celebrate the diversity of human experiences and celebrate the art of storytelling.

Are you ready to share those otherwise uncomfortable experiences, wondering whether to share or not, and bottling up, as a result.

Here, nobody knows the other - that way a safe space to just speak up your mind, let your thoughts flow, views and gain perspectives...Vent out, rant out...anything that makes you feel lighter!

Cheers!!

This is a paid event with a minimal entry fee of Rs. 199

Fluid art has been misunderstood for a long time, it's time to fix it. Like all art forms, Fluid art has techniques, fluid art has methods, fluid art has composition, and most importantly, it is an ART. Join this masterclass to burst some myths about fluid art and always getting amazing results.

When? 26th April, 3:30-5:30pm
Where? Lamakaan
Registration fee: Rs700 (all the materials will be provided)

Only 10 slots are available for this workshop, so hurry up and register.
WhatsApp: 6290176108
Instagram: minion.crafts

Prepare yourself for an evening filled with unending laughter as Team Natyaved presents Hasikaran, an energetic compilation of four uproarious short plays! Each play offers its unique blend of chaos, charm, and humor—ranging from uncomfortable first dates to surprising turns of events. Whether you appreciate clever humor, physical comedy, or sheer absurdity, there is something to amuse everyone. Settle in, unwind, and get ready to enjoy a delightful journey of comedic narratives that will have you laughing heartily!

Canvas and Convos is Hyderabad’s first ever student friendly art workshop at just ₹548. All the sip and paint workshops or art workshops charge around ₹999 per head limiting the experience to only well to do. Here we are dedicated towards letting everyone experience and learn the joy and skill of painting.

The content is about the ETERNAL PLATONIC LOVE STORY of two legends, Amrita Pritam, the poetess in Punjabi and the Janpith awardee and the famous painter and the poet Imroz.

This April, Lamakaan, will host a film festival dedicated to Majid Majidi's masterpieces every Wednesday.

Majid Majidi, a celebrated Iranian filmmaker, is renowned for his poignant storytelling and visually stunning films that explore themes of humanity, resilience, and cultural identity. His works, such as Children of Heaven and The Color of Paradise, have garnered international acclaim, including an Academy Award nomination.

It's a fantastic opportunity for cinephiles to immerse themselves in the artistry of one of Iran's most influential directors.

Film Title: THE SONG OF SPARROWS | 2008 | 96 Mins | Iran | Farsi with English Subtitles

About the film: The film follows Karim, an ostrich farmer who loses his job after one of the ostriches escapes. To support his family, he ventures into Tehran and starts working as a motorcycle taxi driver. However, the bustling city life begins to change his generous and honest nature, leading to conflicts within his family. The story beautifully explores themes of resilience, morality, and the impact of urbanization on traditional values.

Screening followed by Discussion. All are Welcome. Entry is Free & Open to all!

From the annexation of the princely state of Hyderabad in September 1948 to the formation of Andhra Pradesh in 1956 and the eventual creation of Telangana in 2014, these broad brushstrokes of Hyderabad’s history are well-documented. What has long been missing, however, is the perspective of the people, the different communities who lived through these upheavals—the communal violence of Independence and Partition, the push for a linguistic re-imagination of the state and its bifurcation, the long-drawn-out struggle for statehood—and those who were forced to adapt to a rapidly changing India.

For the first time, Daneesh Majid brings their stories to light. Drawing from generational interviews, oral histories, literature in Urdu and English and his personal experiences, he drafts a modern history of Hyderabad. A work of this scale and size has never been attempted before and “The Hyderabadis” promises to open new doors to the former kingdom’s past and future.

Join us at Lamakaan as Senior Journalist Syed Mohammed discusses a chronicling of Hyderabad, its past, present, and future through the eyes of its people with author Daneesh Majid.

Heritage stalwart and journalist Yunus Lasania writes, “Hyderabad has been written about more by outsiders who settled here than by its own people—it’s just an observation and isn’t born out of xenophobia. That’s why Daneesh’s book is important—its no only provides social-political context, but also throws light on how ordinary people have lived through the city’s ever-changing landscape post-Independence.”



The event will also feature some recitations of some traditional Deccani humour poetry by some of Hyderabad’s renowned humour poets—Lateefuddin Lateef, Moin Amar Bamboo and Fareed Sheer. Excerpts from the Harper Collins-published book will also be read!

Daneesh Majid Bio:
Daneesh Majid is a Hyderabad-based writer who concentrates on South Asian culture, security and Urdu literature. He has worked for “Siasat.com,” the online English edition of the prominent Urdu daily. His writing has been featured in numerous South Asian media outlets, such as “Mint Lounge,” “The Hindu Business Line,” “Express Tribune,” “The New Indian Express,” “The Wire,” “The News Minute,” “The Print,” “Madras Courier,” “DailyO,” “The Nation (Pakistan)” and “Dhaka Tribune.” He is an alumnus of Franklin and Marshall College, Pennsylvania, and the School of Oriental and African Studies (SOAS), University of London.


About Syed Mohammed: Syed Mohammed is a journalist with a national English daily. His focus is on the city of Hyderabad, communities and transport. He has a special interest in archives and telling relevant stories through archival material.

ALL ARE WELCOME!

This session is the perfect introduction to hand-building techniques, allowing you to develop your sculpting skills while enjoying the meditative joy of working with clay. Whether you're a complete beginner or have some experience, this workshop offers a fantastic opportunity to explore your creativity, create a unique masterpiece, and take home a personalized piece of art. This workshop could be your first step into the world of ceramics, setting the foundation for your future as a professional artist. Welcome and Embark on your journey to becoming a professional ceramic artist with our hands-on pottery workshop!

Get ready to laugh your heart out with this hilarious Qubool Hai
Join us for a heartwarming story of love, laughter, and cultural quirks as a Pakistani and Hindustani families navigate their traditions and differences with humor and charm.
Don't miss this side-splitting comedy that will leave you in stitches! Get your tickets now and be a part of this unforgettable experience.
Can't wait to see you there ❤️

Join us for a workshop where art and journaling meets together! In this workshop, we create our journaling elements from scratch. All the art and journaling supplies will be provided to the participants, just bring your creativity along!
It is open for all age group, because there is something to learn from each one of us.

Date: 4th May, 2025
Time: 4pm - 6pm
Registration fee: Rs500
Venue: Lamakaan

DM on WhatsApp 6290176108 to register
Or on Instagram @minion.crafts

Get ready to laugh out loud!

This is a hillarious comedy play, "Qubool Hai"!
Its a heartwarming story of love, laughter, and cultural quirks as a Pakistani and Hindustani families navigate their traditions and differences with humor and charm.
Don't miss this side-splitting comedy that will leave you in stitches! Get your tickets now and be a part of this unforgettable experience.
Can't wait to see you there ❤️

Hyderabad Cinephiles invites you to the screening and discussion of 'The Young Karl Marx' on Tuesday, May 6th

Haitian filmmaker Raoul Peck’s film ‘The Young Karl Marx’ traces the life of the great revolutionary and thinker Karl Marx in his 20s. These were the formative years of the development of Marx’s ideas, later came to be known as Marxism, which not just brought revolution in human consciousness, but more importantly contributed in fundamental transformation of many societies in different parts of the world. The film covers important developments in Marx’s revolutionary life between 1843 to 1848 such as his exile from Germany along with his wife Jenny, his meeting with Frederick Engels in Paris and the beginning of their life-long inspirational friendship, his polemic with Proudhon, Marx and Engels working towards establishing the hegemony of his ideas in the Communist League in London and finally their tireless effort to finalise the pathbreaking work “The Communist Manifesto”.

The screening will be followed by a discussion.

Entry is free.

Contact: 9971196111

Roberto Rossellini was a pioneering Italian filmmaker, best known for his contributions to Italian Neorealism, a movement that emphasized realism, non-professional actors, and on-location shooting. His films, such as Rome, Open City (1945), Paisan (1946), and Germany, Year Zero (1948), captured the raw emotions and struggles of post-war Italy. Rossellini constantly reinvented his craft, blending documentary and fiction, exploring historical narratives, and collaborating with actors like Ingrid Bergman in films such as Stromboli (1950) and Journey to Italy (1954). His work remains influential in world cinema, inspiring generations of filmmakers.

Lamakaan is hosting a festival dedicated to his films this May, It promises to be an enriching experience for cinephiles, offering a deep dive into his artistic evolution and storytelling mastery.

Film Title: ROME, OPEN CITY | 1945 | 105 Mins | Italy | Italian & German with English Subtitles

About the film: The film is set in Nazi-occupied Rome in 1944 and follows a group of resistance fighters struggling against oppression. The story revolves around Giorgio Manfredi, a communist leader on the run, and Don Pietro, a Catholic priest aiding the resistance. Featuring Anna Magnani and Aldo Fabrizi, the film is celebrated for its raw realism, emotional depth, and gripping narrative. It won the Palme d'Or at the 1946 Cannes Film Festival and was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Adapted Screenplay. Considered one of the most influential films in world cinema, it remains a powerful depiction of wartime struggles and human resilience.

Screening followed by Discussion. All are Welcome. Entry is Free & Open to all!

Power of Sound is a documentary film by Andrée Martin on the Gundecha Brothers and their lifelong exploration of Dhrupad music. Through this film, one catches glimpses into the lives of these maestros, and their intimate connection with sound as a medium of transcendence.

Batik printing, is a traditional textile technique originating from Indonesia and now practised across the States of Gujarat, West Bengal, Rajasthan, Andhra Pradesh, Maharashtra and Madhya Pradesh, each in its own style. In this batik printing workshop, attendees shall learn about the history and cultural significance of batik while gaining hands-on experience in the craft.

The participants will be introduced to the materials, including fabric, wax, and dyes. They will then be taught how to use block printing tools to apply wax patterns onto fabric, creating a resist design. After waxing, participants will dye and wash their fabrics, allowing them to witness the transformation as the wax is removed to reveal vibrant, intricate patterns. The attendees can leave the workshop with their unique batik pieces, hopefully having developed a deeper appreciation for this beautiful art form and its cultural roots.

BeVisioneers Hyderabad - Planet Positive Stories
Join us for an inspiring evening with the Hyderabad Local Hub of the BeVisioneers Fellowship—a global community of changemakers working on Planet Positive ideas! From climate action to accessible education, our fellows are creating real impact through grassroots innovations.

Come listen to their stories, share your thoughts, and connect with like-minded individuals who care about building a better, more sustainable world. Whether you’re an aspiring change agent, a student, or simply curious—this event is for you!

Play Announcement:

Taj Mahal Ka Tender
Written by: ayaj shukla
Directed by: Ali Ahmed
Date: 10th May 2025
Time: 8:00 PM
Venue: Lamakaan, Hyderabad

Synopsis:
Imagine if the construction of the magnificent Taj Mahal had to navigate the modern-day bureaucratic hurdles — from tender processes, corruption, red tape to political meddling! Taj Mahal Ka Tender is a sharp, witty satire that humorously explores what would happen if Shah Jahan had to build the Taj Mahal today. The play captures the absurdity of government offices, the delays, the contractors’ greed, and the complete system failure — all while maintaining a fast-paced, laugh-out-loud narrative.
A hilarious commentary on governance and inefficiency, the play makes you laugh, think, and perhaps shed a tear at the cost of lost dreams and grandeur in today's world.


Passes Available on book my show and at the Venue

Come witness history get hilariously stuck in paperwork!

Batik printing, is a traditional textile technique originating from Indonesia and now practised across the States of Gujarat, West Bengal, Rajasthan, Andhra Pradesh, Maharashtra and Madhya Pradesh, each in its own style. In this batik printing workshop, attendees shall learn about the history and cultural significance of batik while gaining hands-on experience in the craft. The participants will be introduced to the materials, including fabric, wax, and dyes. They will then be taught how to use block printing tools to apply wax patterns onto fabric, creating a resist design. After waxing, participants will dye and wash their fabrics, allowing them to witness the transformation as the wax is removed to reveal vibrant, intricate patterns. The attendees can leave the workshop with their unique batik pieces, hopefully having developed a deeper appreciation for this beautiful art form and its cultural roots. Workshop Details: Date: 11.05.25 Time: 11:00 - 1:30 PM Cost: Rs.1000/- for one person (inclusive of all materials and you will be able to take back your batik piece with you) Registration: Whatsapp/call this number to register - +919154399395

Koshish is a heartfelt short film about lost dreams and quiet resilience.

Rohit, once an aspiring filmmaker, now drifts through corporate life — until a chance encounter with a humble cab driver changes everything.
Through a simple yet profound conversation, Rohit is nudged back toward his true self.

With moving visuals and emotional moments, Koshish captures the silent battle between who we are and who we’re expected to be.

When drama meets Hyderabadi swag!
Presenting "Khatarnaak Khala" – a hilarious Hyderabadi comedy by Darpan Theatre that will leave you laughing and thinking at the same time!

Meet Khala – bold, bossy, and full of Hyderabadi tadka! She rules her house with her sharp tongue and bigger heart. Beneath all the drama and funny fights lies a touching story of loneliness, family bonds, and the yearning for love and attention in today’s fast-paced world.

From hilarious Hyderabadi one-liners to unforgettable characters like Khalu, the quirky maid Hajeera, and a very confused insurance agent – this play is a full entertainer with a lot of heart.
A perfect blend of slapstick humor, Hyderabadi culture, and emotional depth.

Come for the laughs. Stay for the story.
"Khatarnaak Khala" – a play that feels like home, with a lot more drama!

A Telugu book named SOPATHI GAALLU (సోపతిగాళ్లు ) which is a collection of short stories written by debutant author vishwaroop vemula.

Join us on Wednesday, 14th May 2025, at Lamakaan, Hyderabad, for an enriching evening "Yousufi Ki Tahreeron Mei Ghalib Ke Ashar"


The Centre for Development Policy and Practice, in collaboration with the Digital Empowerment Foundation & A CODE, is proud to present another captivating edition of Bazm-e-Sukhan.


Event Details:
📅 Date: Wednesday, 14th May 2025
🕡 Time: 6:00 PM
📍 Venue: Lamakaan, Hyderabad

Roberto Rossellini was a pioneering Italian filmmaker, best known for his contributions to Italian Neorealism, a movement that emphasized realism, non-professional actors, and on-location shooting. His films, such as Rome, Open City (1945), Paisan (1946), and Germany, Year Zero (1948), captured the raw emotions and struggles of post-war Italy. Rossellini constantly reinvented his craft, blending documentary and fiction, exploring historical narratives, and collaborating with actors like Ingrid Bergman in films such as Stromboli (1950) and Journey to Italy (1954). His work remains influential in world cinema, inspiring generations of filmmakers.

Lamakaan is hosting a festival dedicated to his films this May, It promises to be an enriching experience for cinephiles, offering a deep dive into his artistic evolution and storytelling mastery.

Film Title: GERMANY, YEAR ZERO | 1948 | 78 Mins | Italy | English, French & German with English Subtitles

About the film: Edmund, a young boy who lives in war-devastated Germany after the Second World War, must do all kinds of work to help his family get food and survive. One day, he meets one of his former teachers and hopes to get support from him, but this man's ideas don't lead Edmund into a clearer or safer way of living.

Screening followed by Discussion. All are Welcome. Entry is Free & Open to all!

GZ & Lamakaan invite you to the German Movie Night at Lamakaan.

Film: One in a Million
Director: Joya Thome
Year: 2022
Duration: 85 Minutes

Synopsis: The film One in a Million (2022), directed by Joya Thome, is a coming-of-age documentary that explores the lives of two teenage girls from different continents. Connected through social media and their shared passion for gymnastics, Whitney, a professional American gymnast and YouTuber, and Yara, a shy German high schooler, navigate the challenges of adolescence. The film delves into themes of loneliness, success, and self-discovery, portraying the complexities of youth in the digital age.

ALL ARE WELCOME!

India’s average life expectancy is 68 years, but for 40,00,000+ waste pickers, it’s just 39. Because we litter.

Every piece of waste carelessly thrown away isn’t just pollution, it’s a burden on those who clean it. But what if we saw waste through their eyes?

Meet Mannu, a little girl who watches her father, a waste picker, struggle under the weight of our waste. She sees his exhaustion, his failing health, and the silent sacrifice he makes every day. But instead of looking away, she chooses to act.

Through Mannu’s story, Mera Desh, Meri Zimmedari urges us to rethink waste. It shifts the narrative from "their job is to clean" to "our job is not to litter."

At Recykal, we are working towards a cleaner, more responsible India through technology, circularity, and awareness. But real change begins with you.

Would you watch and move on? Or will you take the first step, just like Mannu? A step towards a cleaner country, a better future, and a society that truly cares.

Discover the joy of working with clay in this beginner-friendly Clay Trinket Workshop! Learn basic techniques to handcraft your own unique trinket dishes, earrings, charms, and more. All materials provided. Come with creativity, leave with a handmade keepsake!

Read-a-Kitaab - Book Lovers Monthly Meetup

*Crochet Workshop for Beginners*

Discover the art of crocheting and bring your yarn creations to life! Join our workshop to learn the basics and watch your imagination unfold, one stitch at a time. From a simple knot to a unique masterpiece, explore the world of crochet and unleash your creativity!

Samahaara
presents

A double bill of hilarious Telugu comedies

Shri Tanikella Bharani`s
GARDABHANDAM
&
Shri Shankaramanchi Parthasarathi`s
DONGALA BANDI

Directed by Rathna Shekar

GARDABHANDAM
A masterfully crafted political satire, Gardabhandam (Donkey’s Egg) is an ingenious blend of myth and modernity, using humor as a lens to examine the enduring absurdities of inherited power. Written by the celebrated playwright Shri Tanikella Bharani, the play offers a sharp critique of dynastic politics, where leadership is often dictated by lineage rather than merit. With its biting wit and engaging narrative, Gardabhandam transforms a seemingly whimsical premise into a profound reflection on governance, authority, and the folly of blind allegiance.

DONGALA BANDI
In the heart of a bustling town, the lives of seemingly ordinary individuals intersect in a moment of tragic consequence. Gopal Rao, a man of modest means, finds himself plunged into a nightmare when a heated argument over a bribe takes a fatal turn, leaving a young man dead at his feet.

In a desperate bid to conceal the truth and evade the clutches of justice, Gopal turns to the only allies he can trust his own family and a shadowy local goon. Bound by a shared fear and a web of deceit, they embark on a harrowing journey to dispose of the incriminating evidence. Will they succeed?

Roberto Rossellini was a pioneering Italian filmmaker, best known for his contributions to Italian Neorealism, a movement that emphasized realism, non-professional actors, and on-location shooting. His films, such as Rome, Open City (1945), Paisan (1946), and Germany, Year Zero (1948), captured the raw emotions and struggles of post-war Italy. Rossellini constantly reinvented his craft, blending documentary and fiction, exploring historical narratives, and collaborating with actors like Ingrid Bergman in films such as Stromboli (1950) and Journey to Italy (1954). His work remains influential in world cinema, inspiring generations of filmmakers.

Lamakaan is hosting a festival dedicated to his films this May, It promises to be an enriching experience for cinephiles, offering a deep dive into his artistic evolution and storytelling mastery.

Film Title: STROMBOLI | 1950 | 78 Mins | Italy | English, French, Spanish, Italian & German with English Subtitles

About the film: In Italy in 1948, Karin marries Antonio and moves with him to his hometown of Stromboli. However, she soon tries to run away as her marriage has turned abusive, and the locals treat her with disgust.

Screening followed by Discussion. All are Welcome. Entry is Free & Open to all!

A seminar on counselling a batch of intermediate students on stream selection after their EAPCET. Seminar consists of a presentation, panel discussion, and one-on-one counseling.

RAW x Cut is a documentary filmmaking challenge designed to bring together cinematographers and editors in a dynamic, collaborative environment. This event serves as both a networking session and a team-building experience, where participants get to know one another, form creative partnerships, and gear up for the challenge ahead. It's an opportunity to connect, collaborate, and craft compelling stories through the lens of documentary filmmaking.

We are storytellers meetup, looking to organise a storytelling event, where participants will come share their stories of encounter with dogs

Manav Kaul's play park is alight hearted but thought provoking drama that explores the themes of land ownership & identity through the lens of a park setting.