Surprise, surpriseSomeone, somewhere said ignorance is bliss. Most of us take this to heart and we progress through life till it teaches us otherwise. Take diseases, for example. We are blissfully unaware of most diseases and the reasons why they spread. We land up at the doctors and when they advise us a particular line of treatment, we follow like cattle. Doctors generally are not very forthcoming on providing information that is relevant to the patient. So, it did come as a surprise when Dr S.Z. Anwar of Koregaon Park issued an informative pamphlet with the morning newspapers on the Hepatitis B infection. The hand out gives information on what Hepatitis B is, how it spreads, what are the symptoms and what can be done to treat it. Doctors' are not bound to inform to all and sundry about illnesses, but being pro-active has never harmed anybody. Knowledge, especially one that concerns your health is always welcome.Making a pointIt is almost fashionable to be a feminist. So, an exclusive exhibition of paintings by women is like a great idea whose time has come. Female artists of Pune have got together and will be putting their talent on the window at Rabindra Kala Kunj from November 14 to 18, between 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. and 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. This programme organised by the Gangadevi Memorial Kala Mandir is not merely a promotion of art but offers women an avenue for expression and talent. It will be inaugurated by Pushpa Hegde, president, National Council for Women in India. If the idea is unique, can the paintings be far behind?Get colourfulAtur Foundation is organising a state-level painting competition and its first art exhibition from December 16 to 18, at Balgandharva Rangmandir.The competition is open for all amateurs, young aspirants and the students of the fine arts in the State in memory of Atur Sangatani.The programme organised by G S Thakur will be presided over by Lalit Sangatani. The five best adjudged paintings will be awarded. In the students category there are six awards of Rs 500 each. The paintings will be accepted between November 25 and 30 (between 10 a.m to noon and 4 p.m. to 6 p.m.) at Chitari Academy of Fine Arts, Nehru Memorial Hall, Ravindra Kala Kunj, Camp.
