The Toto Funds for The Arts (TFA), a not-for-profit public trust, was set up in memory of Angirus ‘Toto’ Vellani, who was intensely passionate about music, literature and films. The TFA has announced the annual Toto Awards.

These are three separate category awards, the first being Creative Writing. For this award, TFA is inviting entries from young Indian writers in English. Two cash awards of Rs 25,000 each will be given to the winners. Those above the age of 18 and below 30 (as of January 2008) are eligible to submit entries. Entries should reach TFA by October 20 at the latest. For details about the submission process, please write to totofundsthearts@yahoo.com.
The second category are the Music awards. These are for young musicians and bands. For the first time, TFA has tied up with Counter Culture Records to offer talented musicians a complete record deal. TFA is inviting entries for the music award from all genres of contemporary music from rock, jazz, heavy metal, trance, house, instrumental, folk or just about anything. The award is open to all musicians, bands or individuals, under the age of 30. Entries are invited in all languages. All submissions must be original and must reach Toto Funds the Arts or Counter Culture Records by October 15. Over the years, the TFA music award has grown significantly to become an event that all young musicians look out for. So far, the winners have been upcoming bands such as Myndsnare (2005), Demonic Resurrection (2006) and Lounge Piranha (2007). For eligibility and other details contact Neysa Mendes at neysa@oml.in or call: 98213 36963.

Last but not the least TFA in association with Tasveer is inviting entries for its first annual awards for young Indian photographers. Two cash awards of Rs 25,000 each are in store for the winners. For details about the submission process, please write to totofundsthearts@yahoo.com.
DHNS