Designers Should Become Catalysts for Change and adopt mixing of  the old with the new in the age of AI

Designers Should Become Catalysts for Change and adopt mixing of  the old with the new in the age of Artificial Intelligence (AI)  – Rajeev Sethi, Scenographer, Cultural activist and Chairman of the Asian Heritage Foundation 

 New Delhi, A  homespun recipe may occasionally require a dash of high-tech interventions to make it more accessible and, indeed, attractive by mixing the old with the new in this age of Artificial Intelligence  (AI).

 “My grandson handed over a speech to  me for today’s FICCI Ladies Organisation (FLO) Fest  made within minutes with help of Artificial Intelligence (AI) while I was fumbling with words for hours . Most of art works during our times were created or collected in pre Internet days when we in the crafts had just oral history to rely upon. Now a days one can get everything at a click of a button” said Rajeev Sethi, Scenographer, Cultural activist and Chairman of the Asian Heritage Foundation while inaugurating a Two-day FLO-FEST 2024 orgnaised by the FICCI Ladies Organisation (FLO) the apex body of business women in the country.

 “As both large industry and agriculture inevitably turn to automation, global knowledge economies continue to seek original content providers wherever they may be. The latent talent of our creative communities still lying anonymous is tragically short-sighted. Imagine the tactile edge when we introduce the intangible elements of performing arts, culinary practices, rituals of hospitality to this package. Cultural assets have to be understood as indivisible and mutually supportive to gain economic and social relevance.” Said Mr Sethi, a Padma Bhushan recipient .

 “Advocacy of a design showcase will never translate into empowerment of the skilled poor if markets are not brought to their doorsteps. It is also time for constantly sharing the real essence of creativity. The mothers and women creating the society  Make in India’ need not mean shoddiness or exploitation. We can remove this stigma by using designers and raising the quality of the merchandise.” Sethi said.

 “At FICCI FLO, we believe that creativity is the spark that ignites innovation, empowering our members to build businesses that are not only successful but also transformative. FLO Fest 2024 is a celebration of this creative spirit, where the fusion of art, culture, and entrepreneurship opens doors to new opportunities. Together, we are shaping a future where women lead with both style and substance, turning their creative visions into lasting impact.” Said Ms Joyshree Das Verma , National President, FLO .

 “FLO has always been a pioneering platform for women entrepreneurs and leaders, and this event symbolizes our commitment to embracing creativity as a fundamental pillar of leadership and business success. FLO Fest 2024 is a manifestation of our ethos—where creativity meets commerce, and where women come together to create, collaborate, and celebrate.FLO’s mission has always been to empower women to take charge of their lives as entrepreneurs, corporate leaders, or creators. “ said Ms Verma.

 Over the years, we have grown to become a national network of over 12,000 members across 20 chapters, impacting countless lives, supporting startups, fostering professional excellence, and creating opportunities for women to thrive.

 The highlights of the FLO FEST 2024 on the first day was :The Business of Creativity – Expert Panel Discussion The speakers included Roshni Vadhera, Sonam Kalra, Kalayani Soha, Karishma Monga, and Nainika Karan. A dance performance by members of the Kanpur chapter of FLO was another highlight of the event.

 This Two day  event is created by FLO Past President Malvika Rai and supported by the FLO Fest Team, including key members Ritu Vadehra, Rekha Lahoti, Neelam Seolekar, Poonam Mahajan, Dr. Aarti Gupta, and Radhika Dalmia. Dr S.Y Quraishi, former Election Commissioner of India was also present on the occasion.