Film Director "Zoya Akhtar" & NRI Chef "Asma Khan" Shine Bright at India-Uk Achievers Honours : Celebrating excellence in Film-making & Culinary Artistry

 

Los Angeles/ Mar 03, 2024
NRIpress.club/Ramesh/A.Gary Singh

Renowned filmmaker Zoya Akhtar and acclaimed British Indian chef Asma Khan were recently honored at the annual India-UK Achievers Honours in London. Hosted by the National Indian Students and Alumni Union (NISAU) UK, in collaboration with the British Council in India and the UK government's Department for Business and Trade, the event recognizes outstanding achievements of Indian students and alumni who have pursued international studies.

The initiative, launched last year, aims to strengthen bilateral educational ties and was marked by a day-long conference titled 'The Future of Education,' culminating in the accolades for the "Class of 2024" across various fields such as arts, sports, entrepreneurship, and medicine.

British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, expressing his pride in the UK-India partnership, lauded the Achievers Honours as a showcase of exceptional Indian talent nurtured in the UK. In his message, he emphasized the positive outcomes resulting from such collaborations.

Zoya Akhtar's Living Legend Award: A Global Cinematic Force

Zoya Akhtar, the creative force behind blockbuster films like 'Luck By Chance,' 'Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara,' and 'The Archies,' was honored with the Living Legend Award. Acknowledging her significant contribution to showcasing India on the global stage, Akhtar credited her background in literature and sociology for shaping her filmmaking journey.

Addressing a session on Creative Economies at the conference, the 51-year-old filmmaker discussed the impact of literature and sociology on her storytelling. She highlighted the evolving landscape of filmmaking, emphasizing the accessibility of tools, even on mobile devices.

Asma Khan: Culinary Trailblazer in Arts, Culture, and Entertainment

In the realm of Arts, Culture, and Entertainment, UK-based chef Asma Khan, known for her women-led Darjeeling Express restaurant in London, received recognition. The King's College London alumna, initially trained in law, transitioned to a remarkable career in the culinary world and authored bestselling recipe books on Indian cuisine.

Khan, who refers to herself as a cook rather than a chef, shared insights into her culinary journey, emphasizing the role of observation in her learning process. Recently awarded an honorary Doctor of Science degree, Khan continues to make her mark in the culinary space.

The India-UK Achievers were also celebrated at the UK Parliament complex, where finalists engaged with British Members of Parliament, policymakers, and education sector stakeholders. NISAU UK Chair Sanam Arora praised the achievers as embodiments of the transformative power of education and cross-cultural experiences.

Lord Karan Bilimoria, Co-Chair of the All-Party Parliamentary Group for International Students, and President of the UK Council of International Student Affairs, commended the remarkable progress and achievements of Indian students in the UK, highlighting their growing presence in British universities.