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death defying sports TO TRY THIS WINTER

Rolling The Ball With Yuvraj & Hazel

NO CASH TO

SPEND? A chronic spender shows you the way

WHAT CAN

TYRION LANNISTER

TEACH YOU ABOUT

SEX? INDIA EDITION VOL 9 ISSUE 12A

FHMSTORE.COM

Dec ’16 - Jan ’17

CONTENTS

On The Cover On Yuvraj Iceman Jacket, Shirt and Tie: YWC Fashion; Shoes: Brune; Jeans: His own On Hazel Dress and Jacket: Ashish N Soni; Hat: Zara Shoes: Jimmy Choo; Earrings: Swarovski

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ROLLING THE BALL WITH YUVI AND HAZEL What happens when a Punjabi jatt and a lady from England decide to get hitched!

CONTENTS

26. MADHURIMA TULI

18. ACCESS GIRLS: NINA-MALIKA

34. SCOTT SERFAS

46. MAHESH BHATT

56. TOYOTA FORTUNER

50. RANT OF THE MONTH 8

Dec ’16 - Jan ’17

74. WINTER SPORTS

88. FHM GIRLFRIEND: STEF MINDI

Publisher & CEO Nitin Agarwal Associate Publisher Arpit Agarwal Chief Operating Officer Alok Katiyar Editor Hari Govind Nair EDITORIAL Features Writer Siddharth M Joshi Correspondent Sudhakar Jha Digital Content Editor Devika Ohri Fashion Stylist Harleen (Ruby) Bhatia ART Art Director Sachin Ruhil Senior Designer Prakash Shetty SALES & MARKETING President Raju Sarin Regional Head Tabriz Ahmed Manager Amit Tiwari Strategic Alliance Sujyoti Chakravorty PRODUCTION/CIRCULATION Manager Rajesh Bisht Executive Rakesh Pandey

EDITOR’S LETTER Another interesting month passes away and we are cruising towards a brand new year. The celebrations have started and demonetisation or not, life keeps going on and the party never stops. Talking of parties, I recently visited Miami and surprisingly there’s much more to that city than just getting sloshed and jiving to beats through the night. I won’t go into the details but would really like to share my ‘moment’ of that trip with you all.

So the thing is, I like animals but am not one of those human beings that go all mushy on seeing a ball of fur. My relationship with them is more on the lines of, I stay out of your way and you stay out of mine. But during this trip all that changed. I visited the Jungle Island in Miami and managed to befriend quite a few four- and more-legged creatures. Amongst them all, the one guy that I really wanted to get back to India was a nice and thick defanged python. Unlike our zoological parks where these creatures are condemned to a life behind bars, over there many animals get to roam around freely; the overall aesthetic of the place is similar to a wild sanctuary. So moving to the point, my guide got this whacked out idea that I should get up close to her slithering pal and have a nice little convo with him or her... seriously I was not in a frame of mind to enquire about the reptile’s gender. Though skeptical at first, I decided to give it a shot and within seconds the python, which was placed on my arm, decided to creep all the way to my neck and wrap itself cosily for a snooze.

Surprisingly, neither was it slimy nor did I scream my lungs out. It was way less intimidating than what I had imagined. So maybe, moving forward, before building imaginary castles of destruction and doom, we should actually go ahead and confront what scares us.

Now coming to our December edition, we decided to have the hot couple Yuvraj & Hazel on our cover. And since this edition coincides with their wedding, what better way to send in our best wishes than with a cover shoot...

Hari Govind Nair 10

Dec ’16 - Jan ’17

Information: info@tcg.media Subscriptions: subscribe@tcg.media Submissions: fhm@tcg.media Advertising: adsales@tcg.media Desk: editorial@tcg.media TCG MEDIA LIMITED

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JOKES PRANKS & QUIPS

April fool

Little April was not the best student in Sunday school. Usually she slept through the class. One day the teacher called on her while she was napping, “Tell me, April, who created the universe?” When April didn’t stir, little Johnny, a boy seated in the chair behind her, took a pin and jabbed her in the rear.

“GOD ALMIGHTY!” shouted April and the teacher said, “Very good” and April fell back asleep. A while later the teacher asked April, “Who is our Lord and Saviour,” But, April didn’t even stir from her slumber. Once again, Johnny came to the rescue and stuck her again. “JESUS CHRIST!” shouted April and the teacher said, “Very good,” and April fell back to sleep. Then the teacher asked April a third question. “What did Eve say to Adam after she had her twenty-third child?”

And again, Johnny jabbed her with the pin.

This time April jumped up and shouted, “IF YOU STICK THAT F*****G THING IN ME ONE MORE TIME, I’LL BREAK IT IN HALF AND STICK IT UP YOUR ASS!” The teacher fainted.

The secret letters

When each of her three daughters got married, their mother asked them to write to her with the truth about their newly married lives. To avoid embarrassing their respective husbands with intimate details of their sex lives, mother and daughters agreed to use newspaper advertisements as a secret code.

The first wrote back after a week of marriage with the simple message: “Maxwell House Coffee.” The mother checked the newspaper, found the Maxwell House advertisement, and was pleased to read that it said: “Good to the last drop.”

The second daughter sent a message after two weeks of marriage. It read: “Rothman’s mattresses.” So the mother looked at the Rothman’s mattresses advertisement, and it said: “Full size, king size.” The mother was happy.

Then the third sent her a letter after a month of marriage. It simply read: “British Airways.”

Mother looked for the British Airways ad,

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Dec ’16 - Jan ’17

but this time she fainted. The ad read: “Three times a day, seven days a week, both ways.”

Stupid, really?

Little Johnny is always being teased by the other neighbourhood boys for being stupid.

Their favourite joke is to offer Johnny his choice between a nickel and a dime, and Little Johnny always takes the nickel. One day, after Johnny takes the nickel, a neighbour takes him aside and says, “Johnny, those boys are making fun of you. Don’t you know that a dime is worth more than a nickel, even though the nickel’s bigger?”

Johnny grins and says, made $20!”

On their own time

A researcher carrying out a survey on marital sex phoned one of the participant to check on a discrepancy. He asked the husband, “In response to the question on frequency of intercourse, you answered ‘once a week,’ but your wife has answered ‘several times a night.”

“That’s correct!” said the husband.

“And that’s the way it’s going to be until the mortgage is paid off.”

Drink till she’s cute

A man stopped at his favourite watering hole after a hard day’s work. He noticed a man next to him ordered a shot and a beer. The man drank the shot, chased it with the beer and then looked into his shirt pocket. This continued several times before the man’s curiosity got the best of him. He leaned over to the guy and said, “Excuse me, I couldn’t help but notice your little ritual. Why do you look into your shirt pocket every time you drink your shot and beer?” The man replied, “There’s a picture of my wife in there, and when she starts lookin’ good, I’m headin’ home!”

Which colour?

A man bought a new range of Olympic condoms. “There are three colours,” he told his wife. “Gold, silver and bronze.” “What colour are you going to wear tonight?” she asked. “Gold, of course.” he replied. “Why don’t you wear silver?” she asked. “It would be nice if you came second for a change.”

SHARE GAGS, GET A GIFT Know any funny jokes? Every gag used earns you a surprise gift. Send them to fhm@tcg.media

THE TEAM

Siddharth dabbling with his Google Pixel... Was aiming for something artistic but alas...

WHAT FHMers WERE UP TO LAST MONTH

And Simrita’s got hitched. Hopefully she will have a lot of moments to drink on the next time we play the deadly game, Never Have I Ever!

Our in-house wheeler dealer planning to set shop down south...

Welcome to Idukki!

Hazel: Let’s go batshit crazy. Yuvi: No baby... that’s only for England.

We had to let our editor win... After all increments are just around the corner.

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Dec ’16 - Jan ’17

LETTERS

Get in touch!

12/16 - 01/17

fhm@tcg.media fhmindia @fhmindia

From Social Media Anita Parihar @fhmindia @arjunk26 self made man...fat to fabđ&#x;˜˜then a big star. luv u arjun muuhhh.

Kirti Kulhari Thank u @fhmindia @SudhakarJha_SJ and @RivaBubber @AmitAsharStudio for these gorgeous pics.

Adah Sharma Me....If you try to take a bite of my pizza For @fhm this month #commando2 #commandogirl

Letter of the Month

A pleasant surprise

sign that’s been introduced would make any difference to my horoscope. I was born a I am an avid traveller and always pick a book or two while on my tours. This time I bought Capri but now I’m supposed to be a Sagi.

Sushil Pandit, Meerut a few magazines in a jiffy and one of them happened to be FHM . I must say it’s a rather Pandit ji, a long prostrated pranam to you.

We are no experts in astrology to answer pleasant surprise to see stories on that, but next time we bump into our tarot adventure, travelling and sports inside reader we’ll put this querry through. something that I always thought was all about girls. I am in fact looking forward to the next issue. P.S. Leh is one of my favourite destinations. Great job with your shoot and the travel article.

Sunil Gahtori, Bengaluru Sunil, our dear boy, we are like an iceberg.

What the cover (or the ‘top’ in the extension of our metaphor) shows is only a sliver of what lies inside. We have some amazing plans that people like you will appreciate.

The 13th sign...

I like the concept of the occasional tarot pages you throw in sometimes, especially because it’s about what I really wanna know rather than the crap in newspaper columns. But I want to know if the new sun

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Dec ’16 - Jan ’17

Sex power, baby!

Have you guys tried the libido exercises on yourself? Do they work? I have been tricked into buying some Ayurvedic tablets that claim to increase sex power, but nothing has helped so far.

Gaurav Dutta, Kolkata Everytime we do a story on sex or exercises to improve stamina, we receive a question like this. Dude, are you doubting our credibility on something as serious as sex? Yes, we have tried them all and they work. But what you’re really looking for is a blue pill on prescrition.

IT’S GREAT TO BE A MAN

t

l a l n g i n gh i JD

with

KA

NI

NA- ALI M

With the looks that can break the hotness meter and music that can blow your mind, join us as we party till the morning with the DJ duo.

INTERVIEW BY - SUDHAKAR JHA

Hello girls. We’ve heard that you two performed 90 gigs in the past year. How insanely true is that?

It’s true indeed! As true as we being DJs (wink).

Tell us about your childhood days. How fun were they?

Our childhood was like the movie, The Sound of Music. We both have seven siblings each so the supply of entertainment and fun was never short.

You girls are childhood family friends and we are sure that you have a lot of interesting stories. Tell us the most embarrassing thing that you did together.

Nina: Oh, don’t even ask. It was really embarrassing! You know, a few years ago, we were engaged in some very personal girl talk during a flight. And when the flight landed and we stood up to get our luggage from the overhead rack, we saw a very close friend sitting right behind us. We froze right there with embarrassment. All we could hope was that he hadn’t heard anything. But there was no such luck! An hour later, Malika’s ex called and relayed our entered conversation. We just wanted to vanish from earth at that moment.

What’s the story behind Elektrovertz?

How did it start?

We both loved to party and wanted to learn how to DJ, just for fun. Our good friends, GMS and DJ Whosane taught us the basics of DJing.

After that, we went to music veteran, Brian Fernandes to learn music production. A few days later, he asked us if we wanted to play for a party in town. That was our first paid gig and from there on, it just spread like wild fire across the country.

When did you girls realise that music is your serious profession?

It happened gradually. We both wanted to learn how to DJ and then it kind of just snowballed into a career!

What kind of music interest you besides EDM? Nina: Hip hop.

Malika: Progressive trance.

Who would you consider your greatest influencer who inspired your style of music?

There’s not one person per say. We draw inspirations from different people. Sometimes certain DJs and producers inspire us with the way they experiment with music. Sometimes we get inspiration from different artists and motivational speakers who have really dared to be different and go against all odds!

Who are your music idols?

We simply adore Madonna, Elvis and Coldplay for their contribution in the music industry. We would like to replicate them some day.

What’s that one song you have always wanted to remix?

We would love to recreate Can’t Hurry Love of The Supremes. The song is just magical! And it will be our tribute to the group.

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Dec ’16 - Jan ’17

Tell us about the most awkward moment while you were playing?

Oh, it happened once that the music went off in the middle of the set. We were clueless about the whole incident!

We are sure that men hit on you while performing. Tell us an interesting story about it…

There is no interesting story as such because we usually have a lot of bouncers around, so men are allowed to get close enough, but we do get a lot of notes passed (chuckle).

Do girls too hit on you?

Yes, sometimes they do.

You girls travel a lot. What country has the most attractive men?

Australian guys are really attractive. They are very friendly. And there are a lot of Greek-ItalianLebanese mixes. You know the Zayn Malik lookalikes (winks).

What’s the weirdest pickup line used on you?

A guy came up to us and said, “Hey fancy faces.”

It was such a turn off that we started laughing in front of him. The guy was really embarrassed.

What are the five things in a man that attract you?

Humility, humour, confidence, generous spirit and of course, the famous tall-dark-handsome look always helps.

And what are your turn-offs?

Arrogance and under confidence in a guy’s personality piss us off big time.

What’s your idea of a fun date?

It doesn’t matter where you are or what you do when you have good company. You know, it’s all about the person you’re with!

What quirky habit do you have?

We can only sleep in a pitch dark room (wink).

We can’t sleep if there is any light in the room. It needs to be really dark. It’s weird but that’s how it has always been.

And what’s that one habit you’d like to get rid of?

We would really like to avoid using words like, ‘like’ and ‘basically’ as fillers in sentences.

If you could jump into a pool of something, what would it be?

Umm… Soaked chia seeds. The whole pool would feel like a bubbly jelly (haha).

If you had to choose between food and sex, what would you choose?

FOOOOOOOOD! On a parting note, what are your plans ahead? Where will we see you perform next in near future?

The plan is to keep making music we love and hope that people love it too. We are gonna be playing at the Soul Festival with Coldplay & Jay Z.

Dec ’16 - Jan ’17

21

22

Dec ’16 - Jan ’17

A GUY CAME UP TO US AND SAID, “HEY FANCY FACES.” IT WAS SUCH A TURN OFF THAT WE STARTED LAUGHING IN FRONT OF HIM. THE GUY WAS REALLY EMBARRASSED.

Dec ’16 - Jan ’17

23

R E N PLAN re ut and explo o t e G ! d rl o won’t let s ross the w s c o a b g r in u n o y e p espot of tuff hap ..

More cool s ver seen before. The d nd get lost. a b jo e r n u e o ’v y u e what yo leave? Leav you take a

1-4 De c, 201 6 A Miami rt Basel , Flori da, US A

017 -1 Jan, 2 6 1 0 2 , c de 26 De oo Para Junkan Bahamas , Nassau

31 D ec,’1 6-1 Rio d Reveil Jan,’17 lon e Jan eiro, Braz il

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Dec ’16 - Jan ’17

2016 21 Dec, Clock h t e Burning , England n Brighto

Kram 5 Dec, 20 pu 16 Klage snacht F es nfurt , Aus tival tria

10-17 Dec, 2016 Mevlana Whirling Dervishes Konya, Turkey

10 Mou -11 Dec nt , Fes ain Mu2016 Phe t sic Rat tchabu ival cha r i , sim N a, T akhon hail and

14-17 Dec, 2016 Maruti Suzuki Arunachal Rally , Itanagar to Dambuk a Indi

29 Dec, 2016-1 Jan, 2017 Rhythm & Vines Gisborne, New Zealand

Dec ’16 - Jan ’17

* Disclaimer: Map not to scale.

Big

25

MADHURIMA TULI The sweet-sour boss in the Airtel ad, Madhurima is the same in real life too. Some fun, some boring moments and lots of expectations make her the next door babe you always imagined...

Interview by SUDHAKAR JHA | PHOTOGRAPHY MUNNA SINGH | STYLING SURINA | HAIR & MAKEUP HARRY RAJPUT

W H O ’S SHE? Age: 28 From: Dehradun Vital stats: 34-28-36 Facebook: Madhurima Tuli Instagram: @madhurimatuli

FHM: Hey, Madhurima. What are you up to these days?

Madhurima: I am meeting new people, reading scripts and exploring myself.

Tell us more about it…

Well, it was long pending that I spend some time with myself. I feel that it is very important to realise where you have reached and where you have to go. So I am really loving this time. In between, I’m also looking for some interesting projects to work on.

How was it working in 24-Season 2?

Oh, it was an amazing experience to work in 24-Season 2. It is a path-breaking show on

Indian television and with Anil Kapoor being a part of it, it was really exciting to work. The character I played, that of Dr Devyani Bhowmik, helped me grow as an actor and person as well.

It helped me to maintain balance even at the lowest phase of my life. I just hope to incorporate it more in my real life because ups and downs are part of life.

Will you be returning for season 3?

Well, audience loved me in season 2 and all my friends too are asking if I will be reprising my role in season 3. I think it totally depends on Anil Kapoor. If he comes back with the third season of the series then I too will be a part of it.

From ads to TV series and movies. Which one is your favourite?

All of them! Because I get to do what I love... to be in front of the camera.

We don’t know much about you. Enrich us, please…

My dad used to work in Tata steel, so we have mostly travelled from one place to another instead of living at one. I can easily say that I’m from all over India. I was a state level athlete, but later chose acting as a career. I am moody and passionate; a dancer, a traveller and an ambitious girl!

Were you a naughty child? What’s the most embarrassing moment that you can recall from your childhood?

You know, I was actually a very quiet child. You could say that I was very shy and a big introvert. I have become naughty after growing up (winks).

Are you a shopaholic? Where’s your favourite shopping destination?

There are days when I don’t shop, but suddenly one day I just get up and go shopping and become a shopaholic (haha). Bangkok and Dubai have good stuff.

Any plans of going to your favourite holiday spot anytime soon? We would try not to follow you…

I was planning to go to Denver for Christmas, but had to cancel it for some work. But soon I will be going somewhere. And I will be waiting for you guys to follow me (winks).

Do you like the idea of drunk dialling? Who would be the person you’d call?

(Hahaha) Yeah, I did that once. It was fun because I was dating that guy. But now I need to be in love to drunk dial again.

Are you seeing someone?

No, I am very much single and gay!

So, what are the five qualities of a man that attract you?

Umm… Good personality, mannerism, cleanliness, sense of humour and to attract me the guy needs to smell good.

And what are the turn-offs?

Fake attitude, bad odour and bad hygiene just turn me off big time. I cannot stand those people.

Where would you want your date to begin?

Umm… With a good dinner somewhere in a nice environment.

And where should it end up?

First date should always end with just dinner (winks).

Do you like pickup lines?

Umm… Yes, if it’s used by the guy I have a crush on. But not very cheesy ones.

So, what’s the silliest pickup line a guy has used to get your attention?

‘You remind me of my grandmother!’ This is

I am carefree, moody and passionate; a dancer, a traveller and an ambitious girl!

Silliest pickup line?

‘You remind me of my grandmother!’

This is what Bollywood does to you.

what Bollywood does to you (haha).

What are the chances of a stranger successfully asking you out?

If I like him, he can definitely be successful.

Otherwise, NOPE! What’s the most scandalous thing you’ve ever done?

Once I was so pissed that I started abusing in Hindi to the staff, but later I felt really disgusted about it. I will abuse in English now (hehe)! Just kidding.

Where was the craziest place you ever made love at?

I’m still looking for that craziest me, craziest place and the craziest love.

If you had to be one half of a lesbian romance, and had to pick in a female co-star, who would you choose?

Wow! I think I will choose Priyanka Chopra. I have a girl crush on her (blushes).

What’s the most embarrassing moment you remember from your teenage?

In school I used to see girls colour their hair and look really cool. I also tried colouring my hair once at home, but it turned out to be a major mishap. I had to go to school the next day with the same hairstyle. Luckily, I only got a scolding from my mom and not the teachers because I was one of their favourite students.

What’s that one thing you did in the past that you wish you could undo?

I wish I had not done a film called, Cigarette Ki Tarah. But I have learnt from my mistakes and would definitely try not to repeat them.

What’s that one habit you’d like to get rid of?

Nail biting! Argh! I just hate myself for it.

If you could jump into a pool of something, what would it be?

A pool full of snow would be so good!

On a parting note, how soon will we get see you on the silver screen?

Well, I am doing a guest appearance in Naam Shabana and other than that, I have some things lined up. I will update you guys soon (wink).

Lesbian romance?

Wow! I think I will choose Priyanka Chopra. I have a girl crush on her.

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CAPTURING THE ACTION OF SPORTS!

A S N O WBO ARD SNAPPER AT H E ART, S C OTT S E RF AS NO W C O V E R S A LL S O RT S O F ACT IO N SP O RTS , F RO M S URF I NG TO M O UN TAI N BIK E S .

THE VANCO UV ER-BASED P H OTO G RAP H E R S P E AKS TE C H N I Q U E , EQ UIPM ENT, I N TE RAC TI O N AND F E AR.

First contact with photography?

I got into shooting friends on the weekend when we were in high school and went snowboarding.

We would all go ride and I would bring a camera to shoot. My friends started riding more and more and because they were some of the best riders in Canada at the time, it became easy for me to sell photos of them to magazines. I didn’t know anything about photography but snowboarding was very new, too.

As they were learning, so was I. Favourite sport to shoot?

Snowboarding. It is my favourite sport but at the same time, shooting different sports keeps it fresh. You learn a technique shooting one sport and use it in another sport. Skateboarding and snowboarding were the things I liked to do, but being from Vancouver where it would get cold and very wet, it was a lot easier to shoot snowboarding so it took over. Then I started surfing… it was a great excuse to go on trips! And lately I’ve been shooting a lot more sports like BMX – all stuff I really enjoy doing. Everything I shoot I have an interest in – it keeps it fun.

The photography category you see yourself in?

I think if I had to categorise myself I would say I’m an action sport photographer. I don’t like to call it extreme sports photography – I feel like the word extreme is used way too often.

Preferred photography technique?

I have no formal training with photography. Over the course of 20 years I have worked out what works and what doesn’t with trial and error and I just do it as it comes. Every time somebody says that’s a great shot I am like, ‘Oh cool, because I had no idea what I was doing!’ I know what I

“I WANT TO MAKE SURE WHAT THE ATHLETES ARE DOING IS REPRESENTED PROPERLY.” 36

Dec ’16 - Jan ’17

Any interaction with the athletes?

Every event is different. During a competition like Joyride, I don’t say anything to them – they just want to win, the last thing they are concerned about is getting a good photo. I’m just there to document what happens. But

“THERE ARE TIMES WHEN I AM LIKE SWEATING AND SHAKING TRYING TO CROSS THE SLOPES FROM ONE CORNER TO ANOTHER JUST TO GET TO MY ANGLE. I ALSO SPEND A LOT OF TIME IN THE HELICOPTER AND YOU ARE NEVER 100 PER CENT SURE IT WON’T CRASH.”

then for another event like Uncontainable, Drew and I spoke a lot about what angles were good and what kind of tricks he should think about doing. I’ll offer up some suggestions but leave it in the athletes’ hands to make the final call. We work together to create a great shot.

A risky job?

For sure. In snowboarding, for example, the chances of an avalanche are pretty high these days because the sport is going further and further in the backcountry. That’s also why I am shooting with long lenses. There are times when I am like sweating and shaking trying to cross the slopes from one corner to another just to get to my angle. I also spend a lot of time in the helicopter and you are never 100 per cent sure it won’t crash. And when I’m shooting surfing from in the water, a lot can go wrong.

There are a lot of rip currents out there, getting caught in one and sucked out to sea is very possible.

You need to be a great swimmer. I don’t know if I am getting smarter or older, or maybe it’s about having a family and kids… but I think about avalanches every day now. The other day I chose not to go back up because I didn’t feel comfortable about it. But I can’t let it stop me either.

Equipment owned?

I have twice as much as I need and half as much as I want.

Because really you don’t need a lot – it’s often easier to have one camera and one lens with you, and shoot. I usually take one camera body with me, four lenses plus a back-up camera like a 5D in case the other fails. That’s the bare minimum and it weighs something like 10 kilos with the backpack and everything. It doesn’t get in the way though, it’s just a part of it.

I do have a whole bunch of other cameras, a Leica M6 and M9 with a 35mm and 90mm lenses, a bunch of fixed local length lenses for the Canon bodies and profoto lighting equipment… It’s a lot of stuff but it comes down to only four or five pieces that I have to have and that should cover everything I need to shoot. I try to take as little as possible which is good because it forces me to take different shots. But sometimes I have these trips with the budget for it and I take the lighting kit and all my accessories.

And I end up shooting something different as well.

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Courtesy: Redbull

am doing now. I try and keep it realistic and authentic. I was never a pro snowboarder but I come from that background. I was a snowboarder before a photographer. I want to make sure what the athletes are doing is represented properly. I don’t ever want to compromise their talent to shoot a more creative photo. I try to put the athletes in a good spot in the frame, and shoot from an angle that represents what they are doing in a proper way and then make an interesting photo around that. I really try to emphasise what they are doing – I am not doing abstract art.

Something like Joyride, I just know what’s gonna shoot well – the way things are shaped, the lines around it, the features… it’s about putting these lines together.

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How I did it...

GIANLUCA ZAMBROTTA, 39, MANAGER OF DELHI DYNAMOS FOOTBALL CLUB Interview by SIDDHARTH M JOSHI When I was a kid my desire was to be a professional football player, so my first memory of any ambition is that of kicking a football for the first time. I studied till the age of 18. My first job was as a professional footballer for the Como Football Club, which is where I am from.

I grew up in Como city with my family, it’s a wonderful city in Italy. I always wanted to just play football, but my family of course gave a great deal of emphasis on my studies as well.

I decided to be a professional footballer. After having played in the Como football academy as a youngster, I got the opportunity to play in the Serie B (Italian Second division league) when I was 17 years old. I was very excited as that was my first opportunity to play as a pro.

I grew up with building a strong stamina, but it is important to build one’s stamina by good training, good nutrition, and by keeping your body clean. One should treat their body as the most important thing. If you respect your body, you can go a long way in any sport.

You can grow up to have good self-esteem, if you obtain a strong job. You should always aspire to grow stronger, work hard and always set targets for yourself. It is important to keep working hard at every stage in your life, and achieve your targets.

Being a coach and being a player are two absolutely different things. It is unfair to compare the two. Of course I was a player; I have learnt from my experience and by studying the style of coaches. I hope that my efforts help me manage my team as a coach in a good way.

In my opinion it is important to grow up in a balanced and calm family. Family teaches you about some very important attributes of life.

In life, always have one target. It is very important to do your best to obtain that target. I always focus to achieve all that I have set in my life and follow this philosophy very closely.

When I was a coach in Switzerland, it was one of the most fun times for me. At the match, I used to go outside the stadium and meet a few fans casually, to drink a beer and have a sandwich with them after the game.

In my life my family, my son, my parents and my wife are my priorities. Friends too are a very important part of my life.

At the moment I am very happy to have got this opportunity to coach Delhi Dynamos FC, to know and discover a new footballing hub, and the people of India. So far it has helped me grow as a person too. It’s a very different and nice experience.

Not many embarrassing things have happened to me on the field, to be honest. One of my team mates, a long time ago, had gastric problem, and he asked me to substitute him to go to the restroom (laughs).

Sometimes a lot of fans and supporters consider us as superheroes. They ask questions like why do you drive a simple car, or oh you go to the cinema to watch a movie? We are normal people, we do the exact same things as anybody else does.

A sport that I love after football is tennis. I enjoy watching Roger Federer and Djokovic play.

Whenever I have the opportunity I go to watch tennis live at different tournaments in Europe.

When I am free I like to spend time with my son. I like to take him to the park, and do interactive activities. I absolutely enjoy seeing him grow. For me my free time is about spending it with the family.

Catch the latest action from Indian Super League 2016 on Star Sports Network.

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Bring back the Dead A NAT URE R E S E R VE IN NORTH EAS T E R N SIBER IA IS A IM E D AT RECRE AT IN G TH E SU BA R CT IC ECO SYSTEM T HAT F LOU R ISHED D UR IN G T HE PLEISTOCEN E A G E .

IS DE-EX T IN CT IO N SOON GO ING TO BE A R E A L IT Y ?

Words by ANWITA MUKHERJEE

T

he 1993 magnum opus, Jurassic Park caused widespread hope and scare when it showed a team of cryptozoologists and genetic engineers breathe life into dinosaurs. It wasn’t real for sure and sceptics trashed the idea as a figment of fiction. Decades have gone by and de-extinction has come forward as a real phenomenon with prominent de-extinction scientist, Carl Zimmer emerging in the forefront. Literally speaking, it flatly means undoing the extinction that has taken place or bringing back extinct species back to life.

True, a well preserved dinosaur DNA strand is impossible to procure but that of a mammoth has been recovered from the icy vaults of the earth. Thus came around the concept for the Pleistocene Park, to restore the mammoth steppe ecosystem.

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WHAT IS IT? It is a one of a kind initiative on the lines of resurrection biology, where efforts are being made to bring back to life animals which existed years back in history. Before you drift off to thoughts of scary velociraptors or a friendly gentle giant Sauropod, be assured

that science has only been successful in attempts to resurrect those animals whose DNA strands were well preserved.

In the not-so-distant future, scientists are expecting to dish out a proper recipe for the revival of extinct species. The process of de-extinction involves collecting remains as a

genetic blueprint and ‘engineer’ the traits evolved due to natural selection over the years. Take the example of passenger pigeons. They are extinct now but because they were around till recent times, strands of their DNA can be found well-preserved and replication-ready. These DNA strands can be infused with those of present day pigeons to create a hybrid of an extinct species. A thriving one too.

REAL EXAMPLES OF DE-EXTINCTION The Pyrenean Ibex, commonly known as bucardo (in Spanish) have been extinct since 2000 (thanks to poaching, courtesy humans) and it was possible to clone the last bucardo, Celia, from its preserved cells. Sadly, it died in just seven minutes after coming to life due to the formation of a lump in its lungs. There are other ongoing projects aimed at reviving animals such as quagga (a type of zebra) and the auroch cattle from the Pleistocene age.

Araucaria mirabilis, a species of coniferous tree from Argentina is another such contender among the flora. They grew in the Jurassic period and are preserved in numbers at Patagonia (Argentina). This, in a way, gives us hope that the extinct ecosystem can be on the path of resurrection.

BRUSH WITH MORALITY Morality is an ambiguous term. While we are in a way morally bound to bring back the species whose extinction we have aided in, this might reach a phase where we resurrect animals extinct aeons back (let’s just assume) and arguably create a ruckus on the line of, if not as big as, the Jurassic Park . Animal rights are another aspect to ponder upon.

These are ‘dead’ animals, apparently lacking the capacity to adapt to this situation. How are their rights going to be dished out? Do extinct animals have any rights?

SHOULD WE BRING THEM BACK? We are in the midst of the sixth great extinction, and in a way we owe it to our ecosystem to replenish all that we have lost by actively aiding in. We really have no idea as to how the resurrected species will react to the changed ecosystem. Some anti-revival biologists have also claimed that aping an extinct ecosystem is a near impossible task and the resurrected animals might just come to life only to be extinct again. Celia is as much an example of successful de-extinction as it is of the perils of the same.

COMMERCIALISATION AND ITS SIDE EFFECTS Everyone is familiar with the turmoil that ensued and the ultimate destruction of the Jurassic Park of celluloid and we cannot disagree that excessive commercialisation is one of the reasons for the same. We hope

a a. The skull of a Columbian Mammoth (Mammuthus columbi) at a dig site in South Dakota, United States. b. Quagga, the subspecies of plains zebra that lived in South Africa until 19th century c. Spanish Ibex on the rocks.

b

c

that Pleistocene Park is a zoologist’s haven and not that of an investor’s. If animals are literally created in the lab, it can impact their behavioral patterns in an unprecedented manner. Also, with over-commercialisation would come rapid breeding of such mammals.

Not just for the animals, it might be a gory end for mankind if these magnificent animals are bred irresponsibly for the purpose of entertainment.

Genetic scientist, George Church of Harvard University successfully copied the DNA from well preserved frozen woolly mammoths and merged them into the genome of an Asian elephant. So, an elephant-mammoth hybrid might well be on its way. It is hailed as one of the major ‘attractions’ and one of the major reasons behind the creation of the Pleistocene Park.

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MOVIES Rogue One: A Star Wars Story Fantasy Set in the Star Wars universe sometime after the events of Star Wars: Episode III – Revenge of the Sith, the film centres around a group of rebel spies. The mutineers plan to steal the galactic empire’s new weapon, Death Star. Gotta see this!

Cast- Felicity Jones, Diego Luna, Ben Mendelsohn, Donnie Yen, Mads Mikkelsen, Alan Tudyk, Jiang Wen & Forest Whitaker Release date- 16th December, 2016

Befikre Drama Dangal Biopic The upcoming biographical sports drama is based on the life of wrestler Mahavir Singh Phogat. The film focuses on how he coaches his daughters, Geeta Phogat and Babita Kumari to become international wrestling champions. Going against all odds, Mahavir ignores people who make fun of him to prove that women can wrestle too.

Aditya Chopra is back on the director’s seat with the upcoming drama starring Ranveer Singh and Vaani Kapoor. Set in Paris, Dharam and Shyra are involved in a casual relationship with a promise to not get emotionally attached to each other. We’re waiting for this one.

Cast- Ranveer Singh, Vaani Kapoor Release date- 9th December, 2016

Cast- Aamir Khan, Sakshi Tanwar, Fatima Sana Shaikh & Sanya Malhotra Release date- 23rd December, 2016

Kahaani 2 Thriller

Assassin’s Creed Action The action adventure movie is based on the video game franchise of the same name. The film is set in the same universe as the games, where Callum Lynch discovers that his ancestor, Aguilar from 15th century Spain, was a member of a secret society, Assassins. Callum relives Aguilar`s memories to gain the knowledge and skills necessary to confront the Templars in the present day.

Cast- Michael Fassbender, Marion Cotillard & Jeremy Irons Release date- 23rd December, 2016

Vidya Balan is back as Vidya Bagchi/Durga Rani Singh in the sequel of the 2012 film Kahaani. This time around, the movie revolves around Vidya’s missing daughter and how she is framed with kidnapping and murder of her own child. But there is more to it than what meets the eye!

Cast- Vidya Balan, Arjun Rampal & Jugal Hansraj Release date- 2nd December, 2016

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Book: Eighteen Plus Duets Author: Apurv Nagpal & 18 women Publisher: Apurv Nagpal HUF Price: `250

The savour of taboo

18 women lift their proverbial veils and come out in the open with stories on sex and everything that’s remained in the hush-hush zone. We get chatty with one of the writers, Sukanya Duttaroy, MD Consumer Goods, Swarovski. Excerpts...

Interview by SIDDHARTH M JOSHI

All of you have collaborated with one man to write your stories. Eighteen women with a guy... that’s a thrilling concept in itself. How was the experience?

Buzzing... 18 diverse women challenging the typical stereotypes, discussing hereto taboo topics of sex, affairs, and sexual orientations. I must say I learnt a lot. There were so many moments of, ‘Oh! that’s also possible.’ And as the man says he attributes most of the silver strands on his head to us. As all of us were first time authors and had picked a genre which is

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usually more private than public, the support structure that our group of authors created was the bubble that allowed us to be bold, write our stories and bring it to completion.

How does it work when two people write together?

Like in all relationships, there needs to be a spark, a wavelength match to make the start… and then it is hard work and then more hard work. Expectations need to be aligned, strengths that each participant brings need to be leveraged, and most

importantly the whole needs to be made larger than the sum of individual parts.

With strong minded co-authors like most of us 18 women were, I am sure Apurv secretly upped his insurance cover for bodily harm, but barring a few nicks we all came out alive from the experience. My biggest learning in this process has been, how to have the delicate balance to listen to feedback and rework on the idea without losing the original spark, not to submerge yourself in either a stronger point of view or vice versa of overpowering a creative idea. Almost a

year of going back and forth and heated discussions on ideas, grammar has definitely made me more articulate – a big positive plus for my day job.

ONE NIGHT STANDS ARE THE TRUTH OF THE TIMES THAT WE LIVE IN AND I THINK THEY SERVE A PARTICULAR TYPE OF NEED. ARE THEY HEALTHY, AGAIN IS A VERY PERSONAL PERCEPTION AND DECISION.

How did the idea for the book sprout?

Did the 18 of you come together and decided to pan it out?

Over alcohol... Actually the idea was already brewing in Apurv’s head after he wrote his first book, Eighteen Plus, a solo book in the same genre. He really wanted to explore the second in the series as a collaboration with women. He was sure that taking the same genre and having women tell the story would bring in a perspective which would make for an interesting reading; like a guide to what a women thinks or wants.

The next battle was, of course, to find those 18 women who were willing to come out of the closet and talk about sex in public. In a nation, the birth place of Kama Sutra, which claims to have the youngest demographic profile, finding 18 women to commit to this book took over two years. Some signed on but backed off due to apprehensions of backlash in their job, children’s schools or just family members. On hindsight I think that the authors who went ahead used this time to immerse ourselves into this project, work our stories, enjoy the moment of actually penning down the words to create a story.

How comfortable are Indian women with talking about sex? Do you think things have changed for them while expressing themselves out in the open?

I know that I was not comfortable talking about sex, and I think that is the situation with most Indian women. We are raised to brush this topic under the carpet and bracket it as something you have to just deal with rather than invite into your life. I still think we have a long way to go to reach a state where we can discuss this topic as a natural part and parcel of humans. I also think that this is true for men too, once we leave the realm of salacious jokes.

Barring few all stories in the collection have a prominent women’s perspective. How has the book been accepted?

Very very positively, and I am actually quite breathless while saying this. After the release of the book support and appreciation has poured in from across diverse segments. I have had my son complimenting me as ‘that was cool mom’ which is huge for a 17 year old. Great support for women’s associations, fantastic turn around at each of the launch event and just the very positive and lack of judgemental interaction we continue to have at all public functions.

We are slated to hit quite a few Lit Fests soon and this gives us confidence on the success of the book!

Your story, ‘The Breakfast’ is probably one of the most sophisticated, yet funny pieces in the collection. Was it inspired from something real (wink)?

I have to resort to the first amendment... no comments, right? But as my co-author always says… all fiction is inspired by life.

Your story has a healthy, light take on extra marital affairs. What do you think about them personally?

I strongly believe in the doctrine of each to his or her own. We should not take on our self to judge without walking in the shoes of the person. I am a strong believer in the philosophy of loving your own self and sometimes there are things that we do which might look very wrong to the outside world but is essential to your happiness and peace. I was never a supporter of playing the victim and would rather support affirmative steps by people to make situations better.

Urban India is gradually moving away

from monogamy and arranged marriages, with options of hook-ups and one night stands emerging as alternatives. Do you think one night stands are healthy?

One night stands are the truth of the times that we live in and I think they serve a particular type of need. Are they healthy, again is a very personal perception and decision. Do I think they are healthy, unfortunately I think I was born in a generation which was built in with a self-destruct module for any such inclinations, may be if I were a generation younger I might have a different view of the same.

Men are accused of bearing sex in their minds all the time. How often do women think about sex?

After reading Eighteen Plus Duets, I think most people will realise the truth. Just as in all other things in life, women go for depth vs width in their minds too.

This is your first stint with writing. Do you have plans of writing in future?

I enjoyed the experience immensely, and for me the whole project was such a relief from my day job engulfed with numbers, P&L, negotiations, etc. In this exercise I could create a whole new parallel universe with its own characters and situations, and take off on a flight of fantasy. I think I would like to continue this, and somehow combine my other passions of travel and trekking into stories, especially from a woman’s point of view.

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To burn is to live”

WHAT’S THE ONE SUPERPOWER HE’D LIKE TO HAVE? WHAT IS IT ABOUT GENGHIS KHAN THAT INTRIGUES HIM? IS THERE ANYTHING ALIA CAN DO THAT WOULD SHOCK HIM? FILMMAKER MAHESH BHATT RESPONDS AND REMINDS US WHY HE’S STILL THE KING OF QUOTABLE QUOTES Interview by MALLICA SINGH

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If your house were on fire and you could save only three things, what would they be?

It’s such a joy to discover that there’s nothing that I’d like to hold on to if my house were on fire — absolutely nothing which would give me the feeling of being anchored in that space if there’s a danger to limb and life. I’d just walk out. Maybe that’s the kind of person I am. I’ve always moved on without turning back.

If you knew you had just one day to live, how would you choose to spend it?

Doing exactly what I’m doing. Giving a passionate interview, savouring a meal... There’s nothing that doesn’t consume me now. I’m engaged in the process of living not as an abstraction but as a physical fact. There’s nothing that I long to do that I’m not doing. Hunger exists in the gap between where you are and where you want to be. I don’t pine to be anywhere else, this is where I am, where I am is the destination. I’d spend my last day living passionately, as I am right now.

What do you think happens after one dies?

You become fuel for the continuity of life, depending on the nature of your death. If they cremate you, your body turns into ashes, becomes carbon, enriches the soil.

If you’re thrown into the ocean, the fish eat you. If you’re buried, subterranean insect life feeds off you. The body is immortal. It changes form since one is born and in death lends to the environment. It becomes a part of this ever-changing universe. On the other hand, the entity which is supposed to be here right now, with a memory which began in time, will end in time. So I’d say the process of death is a reshuffling of atoms. This is what I guess happens.

Photos: Tushar Madhav

What, according to you, is the meaning of life?

Any attempt to find out the purpose or meaning of life is to step out of the stream of life and write that blurb on the wall as if there can be anything apart from life. The meaning of life is life — not phrases, words, ideologies, attitudes, or platitudes. The raw process of living, the pulse of life, is found in every living creature.

All the meanings are given by us. We bring our meanings to our lives and fight to shape our existence according to that. But Mother Nature is not interested in that. Mother Nature’s agenda and your individual agenda may not necessarily coincide, which is why the inevitable conflict that is there in our lives.

What are your views on love and romance in the time of Facebook, WhatsApp, etc? How do you think technology and social media have changed the game?

You are living in the virtual world. The “touch-and-feel” age seems to be evaporating like dew drops. You are losing the capacity to be face to face with a living entity. But there’s no alternate to face-to-face contact, because it’s not the words but the silences between the words where the real communication takes place. I see that in this age of so-called communication

revolution, the loneliness that man tried to escape by creating these hi-tech tools, has only deepened. You may get a glimpse everyday of your beloved who’s sitting there in distant lands, but it’s taken the joy out of pining for that individual.

The deprivation of contact followed by a reunion was the stuff romance was made of. All classic movies had lovers running from two ends of the screen to get into this feverish embrace which said, “Aah! We’re finally together, after being torn apart by the forces of the world.” And then the music would soar, and they would freeze the image, leaving the audience with that heightened feeling of “and they lived happily ever after”. But for that, being wrenched away was essential.

So today you may have access but it’s like that line, “people talking without speaking, hearing without listening”. Just because you have too many words at your disposal doesn’t mean you’re saying much. Having meandering conversations are of more value than focussed, 140-character lines that are crafted to impress and dazzle. I want to be touched. I want to be moved.

Only that nourishes the deeper yearnings of one’s heart.

A superpower you wish you had…

The ability to create a just, fair, equal world where there is no strife for basic, elemental needs. Just like the sun shines equally on everyone — it doesn’t discriminate whether it’s shining on a dog, a king, a beggar, a sinner, or a saint. I’d use my power to ensure that the natural resources, which Mother Nature has given to all of us, are distributed equally — not controlled by a handful of people and nations. As the Dalai Lama once said to me, “He who wants enlightenment for everyone is really enlightened”. When you brag to yourself and pat yourself on the back about how glorious your growth has been, you don’t even look at those invisible people who live in abject poverty right under your nose. That’s called wilful blindness. I’d see to it that they’re also a part of the joyride which is called the progress of man.

Three things that really get your goat...

Those with the delusion that I’m God’s gift to mankind or I have some attribute that makes me superior to ordinary folks; penny pinchers; and people who don’t come on time — it shows disdain for somebody else’s. Life is made up of time. Showing up hours or minutes late reveals your disregard for it.

Is there anything that Alia can do that would shock you?

What shocks me, what stuns me, is her maturity at this age — I find the young generation very bright. There’s nothing that she can do that would shock me because I believe I’ve no business to prescribe to my children the morality which I myself have violated.

Who gives me the right to stand up on a platform and pontificate about value systems which I myself have violated on every count?

I’ve only told my kids that this is the way the world is. These are the traffic rules these guys have made — they all are a

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HARD CHOICES WOULD YOU RATHER...?

...live in North Korea or Antarctica for the rest of your life?

North Korea. Because there are millions of people living there. They live, they laugh, they’re happy, they’re sad, like anywhere else in the world. Just because you demonise that place for

whatever their political ideology is doesn’t mean it’s some kind of a hellhole — as if the place where you are is supposed to be paradise. I would be okay there. My only problem can be with the food — I’m a vegetarian. ...endlessly hoard or be compulsively clean?

Not a hoarder at all. ...be a hawk or a poodle?

A poodle. ...be in jail for 10 years or be in a coma for 20 years?

In jail for 10 years. ...live in outer space or under the sea?

Outer space. ...be stranded alone on an island or with someone you absolutely abhor?

With someone I absolutely

pretentious lot — and if they catch you at a signal they’ll create trouble. But just because these rules are there doesn’t mean they are universal laws like the law of gravity — they are man-made laws. So you’re free to do whatever you want provided you face the consequences. And I’m there for you in every season, all the time.

What are you like when you get angry?

Like a river in spate, like an animal unleashed. My anger rises up and immediately comes down. It’s like a wave that hits the rock and dissipates — it doesn’t leave a residue inside me. I refuse to make my body into a graveyard of unexpressed emotions.

Whatever emanates from me, dies.

You can flip a switch that will mute any celebrity of your choice. Who would you pick?

Myself. I’ve said enough. I’m tired of my own self. Silence heals you, nourishes you. As they say, you never learn anything by talking.

When you stop indulging in dramatics and have no need to constantly assert to the world that you are there, that’s when you really mature.

Any infamous person from history you’d have liked to meet?

Mao Zedong. Amazing guy. He left me with the feeling that the

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abhor. As Nizamuddin Auliya said, “love your enemy”. Perhaps I’ll be able to see that the enemy may be right. ...bitten by a venomous snake or gored by a bull?

Bitten by a venomous snake. ...have known Alexander the Great or Genghis Khan?

Genghis Khan. Because I’d like to see up close what made him into the brute that history has recorded him as. What was tormenting him? He was a tormented soul. Only a very tortured person inflicts torture on others. ...tell someone that you love them or that you don’t love them?

Tell them that I love them. ...share your office cabin with a nosy colleague or a

noisy one?

A nosy one. ...buried alive or stabbed to death?

Stabbed to death. ...be a vampire or a werewolf?

A vampire. ...be painted by Raja Ravi Varma or M F Hussain?

The sensualist — Raja Ravi Varma. ...have met Jesus or Muhammad?

Muhammad. Because of the region and the times that he lived in, and his attempt to consolidate such a fractured space with so many tribes. Also, to grasp firsthand the principle on which he built his idea of social justice. ...experience the beginning or the end of planet earth?

The beginning.

JUNG’S COUCH A GAME OF ASSOCIATION MY ANGER RISES UP AND IMMEDIATELY COMES DOWN. IT’S LIKE A WAVE THAT HITS THE ROCK AND DISSIPATES — IT DOESN’T LEAVE A RESIDUE INSIDE ME. I REFUSE TO MAKE MY BODY INTO A GRAVEYARD OF UNEXPRESSED EMOTIONS.”

Play A Streetcar Named Desire Slap My mummy’s angry face Red Blood Painful Life Smell The rain on parched earth Cold The human heart Sticky Family Bite Babies. My baby Pooja’s first bite on my hand Secrets An unnecessary burden Heavenly Memories of my friend, philospher, guide — U G Krishnamurti Proud Alia Bhatt makes me proud Sleep Not my problem, the body’s problem Crowd I love the crowd, I’m a part of it Mean Self-proclaimed intellectuals Silence Explosive

Madness The colour of life Love The perfume of life Death A resting place Yearning To have been with my friend U G Krishnamurti in his last moments Sweet The memory of my mother Ugly My own vanity Shame Of not being able to fulfil the expectations of my near and dear ones when they needed me the most

more brutal you are the more powerful you’ll be. Yet, he had such emotion. I would’ve liked to see what stuff he’s made of.

If you were to get a tattoo what kind of design would you choose?

I’d carve the words on my body which my friend, my philosopher, my guide, my god — U G Krishnamurti — whispered in my ear, “To live passionately and without purpose”. Like a candle. The raison d’etre of a candle is to burn, not to preserve itself. There’s no need to hold on to anything. Life is fire, it burns everything that is dead around you. To burn is to live.

This brings to mind a memory from a winter evening in London during Christmas time. The streets were filled with people doing their last-minute Christmas shopping. In order to avoid the crowds, I headed to Hyde Park.

And as I was walking through the park, I was stunned by the spectacle of tall trees shedding their leaves. They were so majestic, and behind was the din of human existence, where everybody with their bags was accumulating, accumulating... Man accumulates, and nature sheds. The trees looked so gorgeous as they just let go of the leaves which were a part of their being.

That image struck me. That’s what it is... to burn, to let go. How do you live? You inhale, and if you don’t let go of this breath, you’re going to die, so you exhale. You don’t require a complicated philosophical discourse to understand that. Only when you let go of the most precious thing that gave you life will the process of living continue. Then you just have faith that the next breath will come from somewhere. You can’t hold on to your breath, you can’t hold on to things.

Do you ever think about aliens? Do you believe they exist?

I love ET! I’d like to believe he exists. He’s such a beautiful creature... remarkable eyes. I find it tough to make myself believe that I exist. All my life I’ve been trying to figure out the alien who stared back at me from the mirror. So it didn’t give me enough bandwidth to think of aliens in outer space.

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PACKS ON THE POSTER, BLOCKS IN YOUR MIND!

Our guest writer this month, former model and actor, Tahaa Shah believes that the six-pack culture is ruining the real meaning of gyming in India. So where are we going wrong? Here is his explanation…

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Greek god-like photoshopped picture, ripped chest, 8 packs shining brighter than gold bars, biceps that put even Popeye to shame.

And now, in the recent past, hot female models with toned thighs and bulging glutes to get the fairer sex going, the business of fitness has transformed itself from the actual ideals of ‘being fit’ to befitting the ideal, unachievable and ‘dreamt of’ visually perfect physique as the benchmark of being healthy.

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I wonder what are we trying to sell? What are we trying to build as a perception? Why do we need to sell ‘being muscular is being fit’ as a visual dream to play on the common man’s psyche? I know that some major gym chains would go up in arms against this notion, but come to think of it.

When a new gym in town says ‘Introductory offer! Yearly membership at blah blah rupees and blah blah rupees discount if you get another member. Also blah blah package if you hire our

trainer!’ Leaving the smartly crafted copy aside, which I believe is the right of every business, think of the visuals.

Leaving a wee bit of them aside, have you ever seen a healthy, bulky, office going middle aged man with a slight belly, or a skinny teenager, or may be a mother of two in her late forties in gym wear on the poster of a mainstream advertorial? Am I right or am I right? What am I guaranteeing as a gym when I put out that offer? Am I saying

that I shall give you those six packs if thou shall join? Or am I saying, ‘sleep tonight, you six pack-less fool, with the thought of the photo shopped picture that I put out with my joining offer, get jealous because you can’t have that physique, think more about it.’ Because somewhere, deep down there, in the atom sized part of your cerebellum, I, the gym ad, have managed to psychologically convince the hell out of your brain that fitness means exactly that. The Greek gods and goddesses should be your benchmark, that for the shining, sweaty abs you saw on the poster, you don’t know how much as a gym I spent on the photo-shoot of that model who was on a heavy steroid cycle, just because I sold him a dream too. I told him, ‘you will be on the gym poster all around town.’ You want to be a fitness model, yeah? This will be the beginning of your career! And now, that I have spent so much on my marketing budget, it’s my business birthright to sell you, the common man and woman, a far-fetched, hot looking body of your own, for you to cherish, in your dreams! The moment you fill in that joining fee,

my poster’s job is all done, and now ladies and gentlemen, welcome to the world where not me, the gym, but you the commoner, has to do the lifting, has to do the spending, has to live with the notion all your life that you haven’t got the six packs you saw on the poster, because you haven’t worked hard enough. What do you do now? Damn you, this is a vicious and never ending cycle! Pay more for the next month, or get your ass outta here! No lunches, including that for your health, come for free.

Mind you, at no point of time am I saying that gyms are bad.

Hell no! The Encyclopedia of Modern Bodybuilding, by Mr. Arnold was the first book I grabbed at age 12 before joining a gym myself. Having discovered alternate means of fitness now, I might find the gym routines boring, but yeah, they are the meccas of inspiration. That’s where early notions and inspirations of fitness came in.

Inspiration in the garb of faux-impressions is a no-go though. An ideal common man, who would do a nine in the morning to god-knows-till-when

WHY DO WE NEED TO SELL ‘BEING MUSCULAR IS BEING FIT’ AS A VISUAL DREAM TO PLAY ON THE COMMON MAN’S PSYCHE? job, with a wife and two kids too look after, might hardly have any time to make those six packs.

Same is the case with a multitasking mother cum wife cum business director cum cook cum so many other things that she might be ( yeah, women are awesome and stronger and sharper than us men). I say, sell them the gym notion of being fit, yeah? Let goals be different for everyone? Like you sell cooking oil to a wife who is concerned while deep frying pakodas while her overweight man is panting in the garden while playing with the kids. Why can’t we have gym and fitness related marketing that defines the true essence of being fit, being healthy, being active?

Don’t make packs as a notion in people’s head. It’s perfectly normal to not have packs, it’s perfectly normal to have a slight belly. It’s perfectly normal for women to have curves, no curves on women is a turn off for me, anyway (wink)! One might stomp upon and ask me as to why I have all those packs as seen in the pictures. Why I choose to do those fitness model type of photoshoots and why all this rant about gyms?

That’s because I, as a common man, choose to go through bodyweight training, martial arts, calisthenics, gymnastics, massages, a followed diet pattern and enough rest! My profession as an actor demands me to be in shape all the time, but mind you, six packs for me is only a by-product of being fit. It’s never the goal. The goal is to be able to meet the physical excursion and continual sharp focus that my 12-hour shifts demand, with intricate equal measures, the look my character demands, and if tomorrow I have a role that wants me in a paunch and bulky looking face, I’ll be on a no holds barred burger and carbs fest. But again, I’ll be healthy with that much weight on me is something I can assure!

We, as actors, have a lot of people to take care of us. Like a bunch of them. So next time you see that poster, think of your goal. Ask yourself what do you want to be! Chase realistic stages, aim at being healthy and fit, and not be swooned away by photo shopped posters in swimwear. ‘Fit as a fiddle’ is as subjective as the number of humans around. Each of us is unique, beautiful, handsome and amazing in our own ways. Do get inspired, but take away from that inspiration to be the best you can be, the best you can carve out of your own self. Let packs on your torso take their own time, get rid of those blocks in your head for now!

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THE HE-MAN OF INDIA

On the occasion of the 88th birthday of Rustam-e-Hind Dara Singh, Seema Alimchand pays homage to the man with a biography.

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Book: Deedara aka Dara Singh!

Author: Seema Sonik Alimchand Publisher: Westland Price: `269 52

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his is the remarkable story of Rustam-e-Hind Dara Singh, a man who epitomised unbridled masculinity, super human strength and incredible grit. He was the first Indian wrestler to fight the toughest in the world — King Kong, Ray Golden, Lou Thesz and Ray Apollon — and emerge as the invincible world champion.

But this is also the story about a young Sikh boy called Deedara, who was pulled out of school to work in his father’s farm; who was coerced into a teenage marriage;

who did petty jobs in Singapore; and finally strode like a lion into wrestling arenas across the world.

As one of the first stars of Hindi stunt films, Dara Singh mesmerised his audiences with his rugged looks. And in 1986, while essaying the role of Hanuman in the iconic TV series Ramayan, he was deified by the entire nation. Deedara aka Dara Singh! is a fascinating account of an extraordinary man, who started his life in the most ordinary way, but became an icon for an entire generation.

All the pictures in this book are credited and sourced from the personal album of Virender Singh Randhawa (aka Vindu)

Excerpt Clouds thundered in the Punjab sky bringing the promise of relief from the scorching, summer heat. Clad in his loincloth, sweat forming tiny rivulets on his mud-streaked body, Dara Singh exercised, using his body weight for push-ups and squats, rounding off the session with the yogic suryanamaskars and shirshasana.

Dara had kept up his wrestling practice with a well-known wrestler of Punjab, Jassa Singh. They’d built an akhada on a deserted piece of land that lay between both their villages. Soon, other wrestlers had also begun exercising there, drawing many a kushti fans to the akhada. It became a common sight to see pehalwans climbing ropes, weight training with stone nals (circular weights) and fighting with heavy clubs.

One monsoon day, as usual, groups of villagers thronged around the pulsating akhada, marvelling at those powerful men. But all of a sudden, the buzz of chatter and the guttural grunts from the wrestlers came to a complete halt. A huge pehalwan had walked into the akhada.

‘JASSA!’ he bellowed, and all activity in the pit came to a standstill. Jassa and Dara both turned to look at the visitor and shouted in unison, ‘Tiger Joginder Singh!’

Tiger Joginder Singh, who’d once encouraged Dara to train under Harnam Singh in Singapore, was back in Punjab.

‘I am here for some time, so decided to look up your akhada,’ Tiger said.

‘It’s great to see you, Tiger,’ Jassa replied, and invited him to join in the work out.

After an hour of practicing, Tiger said, ‘Let’s do some masti! Let’s have some fun. Who’s up for a weight lifting challenge? Dara? You game?’ Joginder asked pointedly, twirling his moustache, unaware of Dara’s growth as a wrestler in the past year.

Dara accepted the challenge. A ripple of excitement cut through the akhada, forking its way into the minds of a frenzied audience. As the word spread, the crowds increased and hundreds of villagers congregated to watch the unfolding duel between a senior and junior wrestler.

Dara went first. Bent on one knee, he lifted the eighty-pound cylindrical weight in one go raising it overhead, with his right arm stretched up to its full capacity. With a thud, he flung it back on the ground, and turned to Tiger, saying, ‘Your turn!’

Tiger Joginder Singh too lifted his stone weight as easily, holding it overhead with pride. They were quits. At this stage, two nals weighing eighty-

pounds each were brought out. Dara rubbed mud onto his palms and closed his strong fingers over the stone shaft which was fixed at the centre of the nals. He straightened up, and lifted the heavier weights in a smooth, ‘clean and jerk’ motion. When his turn came, Tiger lifted the bars overhead with ease and equalled Dara.

For the third round, a 160-pound club was presented. But before Dara could begin, a guttural chant rose from the growing multitude of fans, ‘Ti-ger!

Ti-ger! Ti-ger!’

Beaming with pride, Tiger decided to go first this time. By now, the weight-lifting bout that had started out as pure fun, had taken a very serious turn. It was the final round. Iron chains were wrapped around the humongous clubs. Tiger went down on one knee and lifted the weight onto his shoulder.

Sweat trickled down his brow, blood rushed to his face and with an enormous effort, he straightened his knees and lifted the weight overhead.

Along with Jassa, the crowds counted, ‘One, two, three, four, five, s…’

Five seconds later, Tiger’s trembling legs gave way. He was forced to throw down the heavy weight. The crowd gasped, and someone from the crowd exclaimed, praising Tiger, ‘Shaabash Tiger!’

Next, it was Dara’s turn. He inhaled deep, thinking, If Tiger couldn’t go beyond five seconds, how can I? But he stepped forward. With his mind and body focussed on the deed, he bent low and hauled the club onto his shoulder first, and then like Tiger, carried it all the way up to the top. It was the most difficult attempt of his life. Within three seconds, his legs began to tremble, but then he felt a sudden, cool gust of wind that swept up towards him. It teased his virility even as his muscles bulged, his eyes widened, and his body firmed up into one large mountainous rock-like figure.

The crowd counted, ‘four…’ Dara trembled, breathing in the sensual, monsoon winds. ‘Five, six, seven…’

Thunder clapped. ‘Eight, nine…’

Lightning struck, stroking the fires of passion. ‘Ten!’ The swollen clouds climaxed and rained down, as Dara threw the club. The cold waters from the sky, washed over him. He felt blessed.

Tiger Joginder Singh was shocked at the transformation in Dara, and later asked him, ‘How did you become so strong so soon?’

‘It’s “Mehru’s Magic” at work,’ Dara laughed and added, ‘the shakti of contained sexuality.’

‘That’s it?’

‘Yes, but I’ve been working out too and then the matches, which I’ve been fighting in the past six months, after I returned from Singapore.’

Book: A book of light Edited by: Jerry Pinto Publisher: Speaking tiger Pages: 216 Price: `399

Book: Amir Khusrau: The Man in Riddles Authors: Ankit Chadha Publisher: Penguin Pages: 96 Price: `299

Book: Scattered Souls Authors: Shahnaz Bashir Publisher: Fourth Estate Pages: 192 Price: `399 Dec ’16 - Jan ’17

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WHAT CAN TYRION LANNISTER TEACH ME ABOUT SEX? As we wait for the planet’s bloodiest and steamiest show to come back, let’s see how much of Game Of Thrones should we bring into our bedrooms?

“You like fucking and drinking… but killing, killing’s the thing you love.” When it comes to summing up what fans of Game Of Thrones adore about their beloved medieval fantasy show, these delicate words from Sandor “The Hound” Clegane hit the nail right on the head. Blood, booze and bonking: it’s the holy trinity that has helped earn the HBO flagship series the title of ‘most downloaded show in history’.

But of the three, it’s the uncensored nookie that sets the series apart from the rest of the fantasy genre. A quick search for ‘Game Of Thrones Sex’ on the web will prove our point, throwing up a super-cut of every intimate scene in Westeros that’s so raunchy, you’d want to cleanse your internet history with dragon fire.

It was on the eleventh watch that FHM had a brainwave. These scenes must be the most watched sex scenes of any TV show, ever. There must be a few lessons in there that we can bring into the real world to better our bedroom activity, right? To find out, we asked a number of ladies from the Great British public to see what Game Of Thrones sex tips we can learn from, and which are definitely off limits…

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IS IT OK TO PAY FOR SEX? Petyr ‘Littlefinger’ Baelish’s brothel is more popular than a kebab shop on a Saturday night.

Dianne, 23, from London says: “In my opinion, most sort of pay for it already. Say someone uses Tinder and meets up for a date; they might expect to buy a girl drinks and pay for a meal before they have sex. It’s a form of it.”

Claire, 20, from London says: “It’s not acceptable. It’s not that difficult to get sex if you really want it. Just go to a bar.”

Oberyn Martell swears by swinging both ways, but the girls on the street seem pretty unbothered by the whole shebang.

Nadia, 24, from York: “Some think that orgies can enhance their sex life. Fair enough, I say.”

Gemma, 24, from Somerset: “Not my cup of tea, but each to their own.”

IS DOGGY-STYLE THE BEST POSITION OF THEM ALL? No matter which side of the wall you fall on, doing it from behind is the position of choice in Westeros.

Lori, 27 from Devon: “No. For guys it is, but I’m not sure if girls really benefit from it.”

Katie, 21 from London: “For me, it’s the best.”

Dianne, 23, London: “It’s good, but there’s definitely better positions.”

IS IT OK TO CUT OFF A MAN’S PENIS AS PUNISHMENT? It seems a fate worse than death, but would a man ever deserve taking a guillotine to his little fella?

Gemma, 24, from Somerset: “Hmm, it is acceptable if they’ve done something really bad, but I’d just mash it up with something blunt instead.”

Nadia, 24 from York: “Why would you cut off his main ‘thing’? There’s loads of other things you can do if you want to be the psycho ex.”

HOW MANY DRINKS IS IT ACCEPTABLE TO HAVE BEFORE SEX? “I am the god of tits and wine,” boasts Tyrion. But are these a perfect match in the real world?

Nadia, 24 from York: “You have got to be able to walk and stay conscious. Don’t pass out.”

Elizabeth, 20, from Australia: “Tipsy sex is good – you’re much more relaxed!”

DOES SIZE MATTER? He may be small in height, but whatever Tyrion Lannister is packing under his tabard has had a massive effect on the ladies…

Lori, 27 from Devon says: “No! It’s what you do with it that matters instead of size. Guys need to stop obsessing about it.”

Katie, 21, London says: “It does matter. It needs to reach all the right places.”

Claire, 20, from London says: “Nobody wants a teeny-tiny penis, but as long as it’s reasonable, then that’s fine.”

Dec ’16 - Jan ’17

PHOTOGRAPHY: MARCO VITTUR. MODEL: RHEA G MIM. HAIR AND MAKE-UP: LILLY BENSON. HELMET FROM HBOSHOPEU.COM

ARE MIXED-SEX ORGIES CONDUCIVE TO A STABLE RELATIONSHIP?

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Under A Civilised Garb...

You can make a brash Haryanvi jatt wear a tuxedo, don a pair of Guccis or even send him to the school of suave... But place him in the midst of a bare-knuckle brawl and his real fiesty character will still fire through. That’s what we feel is the case with the new Toyota Fortuner.

Words by HARI GOVIND NAIR

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Photograph by SACHIN RUHIL

and I am really hoping that over time I will start admiring its newfound suave’ness’ as well. Though on the outside there are many visible changes, it’s the interior that really impresses. The outgoing Fortuner’s interior has been a bit too rugged for my taste but Toyota has done a fabulous job with this second generation and it’s quite plush and geared up for a really long and comfortable journey. Moving on, now that we have crossed all the boring stretches of traffic and reach the tea estate let’s get to the Fortuner’s driving capabilities. Now the Fortuner I was driving was a 4x2 AT petrol model. I know... not really what one would want for hardcore stuff but then, this machine gives its driver so much confidence that one tends to forget the technicalities. Now maybe Toyota had selected the easiest stretch at the estate but the 4x2 model took on the 3.5 km track with such finesse that there was not even a single challenging moment.

We did veer off the course a bit and tried out some acrobatics and the results were not at all disappointing. Overall the new Fortuner is a capable SUV and will definitely prove to be a worthy successor. And to find out how much it can take we will certainly take it up north to the heart of the Himalayas and grill it further.

F O R T U N E R ENGINE

2,694CC

POWER

4 X 2 A T

TORQUE

245 Nm 122 KW @ 4 ,000 rpm @5,200 RPM

PRICE

` 2 7, 6 7, 0 0 0

Shot with NIKON D500

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bout eight years back, Toyota introduced a much-awaited SUV in the Indian market. It conquered hearts of politicians, land owners... and basically anyone who wished to project themselves as the bigger dog. In its initial days it was quite common to hear people waiting for months to get their vehicle delivered. Over the course of time, it’s demand increased but there was no decrease in the waiting period. The vehicle, Fortuner, captured and captivated market in such a manner that even its second-hand version sells for a premium! What’s more, even with the new model about to be launched, the outgoing one was still in high demand. And now that Toyota has launched the second generation Fortuner, we decided to take this beast (let’s see if we can still use this adjective) on a chassis-breaking ride across a highly challenging off-road course on a tea estate in Vagamon.

First up, we had to get to the tea estate from Cochin and thus began our ride through the winding roads of Kerala. By the time we reach the estate, let’s give you a lowdown on how the new Fortuner looks. This one has definitely shed its brutish looks and gone for a fluidic sort of approach.

Personally I have always admired its ‘don’t-mess-with-me’ appearance

Baba On Board

While the cute poster guy known to have earned just enough internet fame is an ideal ‘roomie-material’, he admits his desire to be an asshole. We caught hold of the ‘Nice Man’, Sumeet Vyas in his awfully tight schedule and asked him a few questions on the go.

Interview by DEVIKA OHRI

Starting with English Vinglish, what made you accept the role of a Pakistani cabbie, who wants to speak fluent English?

I was just happy that I was getting a fun part because around that time, I was doing a lot of serious, a typical decent, well-spoken guy kinda shit… So I literally pounced on this opportunity (chuckles). I have travelled to Lahore for my plays, and have made a few friends there so it was easy to pick up their mannerisms and accent. I thoroughly enjoy playing characters that are completely against my grain.

Permanent Roommates made you a household name and it is supposed to have kick started the trend of web series in India. What inspired you to take the role of Mikesh?

I had seen the kind of work that TVF was doing and I really wanted to work with them. About Mikesh, the character gave an outlet to all my stupidity and my goofiness. What was most inspiring was the attention to detail in the writing of this character by Biswapati Sarkar. I told myself, ‘I have to do it!’

Mikesh is arguably referred to as over-emotional and annoying at times. How do you personally perceive Mikesh?

Do you relate to him in real life too?

I perceive Mikesh as this person who is naive to the basic level of corruption that is required to survive in today’s time. He sees the world very differently. For him, life is a fairy tale and he’s living it.

We’re all as emotional and annoying as him; we just know how to hide it, and he doesn’t feel

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the need to do that. I relate to him on many levels, I’d like to be like him in life, but I guess, I’m too shrewd and corrupt to do that.

How do you adhere to the idea of ‘nice man’, as referred to by your onscreen permanent roommate, Tanya?

‘Nice man’ is the only actual super hero that exists in this world. My hero is my father. Not because he has special powers or he is incredibly successful or smart, but because he’s a nice man. He works hard, he’s compassionate and he loves his family and prioritises their needs before his own. Every super hero that you’ve read about is based on this one character called the nice man.

Now that the 2nd season of Permanent Roommates is over, can we look forward to the 3rd one? When is the next season coming?

Hopefully, in the second half of next year. I’m waiting for it as eagerly as you are. There’s only one man who can give you an exact answer to this question, Biswapati Sarkar!

You donned the writer’s hat for Bang Bajaa Baarat. What made you come up with such an interesting concept? What’s the update on the 2nd series?

I’ve always been fascinated with screwed up family dramas that are not preachy and where every character is little flawed. Bang Baja Baraat gave me the freedom to explore this. I wrote the dialogues and co-wrote the story.

I have to mention that writing the story with Anand Tiwari and Amrit Pal Bindra was super fun! We are a bunch of messed up people; not fit for this society. That’s why, most of the times I’m quiet around people and speak less (laughs). If they get to know what’s going on in my head, I’ll be screwed.

You essayed the role of Behari in Stories by Rabindranath Tagore in 2015? Would you like to share your experience?

How was it to work with Radhika Apte?

Chokher Bali has been one of the most satisfying shooting experiences I’ve had. And a huge credit for that goes to Mr. Anurag Basu. I think, the way he directs his actors is something that should be taught in film schools.

He does not merely instructs his actors, he liberates them. Having Radhika Apte as my co-actor was

NICE MAN IS THE ONLY ACTUAL SUPER HERO THAT EXISTS IN THIS WORLD. EVERY SUPER HERO THAT YOU’VE READ ABOUT IS BASED ON THIS ONE CHARACTER CALLED THE NICE MAN. BUT I’VE OVER DONE THE NICE MAN, SO I’M ITCHING TO PLAY AN ASSHOLE. a treat. She’s a natural! She’s so present in every scene, it’s inspiring to see her act. She looks stunning on screen. I had a major complex with her screen presence (chuckles).

On that note, have you read Chokher Bali? How did you prepare yourself for the character of Behari?

Yes, I’ve read a bit of Tagore... I have read Chokher Bali, Shihir Kobita, Kabuli wala, and Ek Ratri.

For this role though, there was no time to prepare. Anurag Basu doesn’t give you time to prepare and prefers spontaneity. He has

actually combined two stories of Tagore; Chokher Bali and Ek Raatri. When I was shooting, I had no clue where I was in the story because Dada (Anurag Basu) would just come and explain a scene to you. And it made perfect sense! He would tell you the pitch (sur) of your character and then start shooting. Having no clue where your scene will be placed in the story, you have to just surrender to his vision, and then he does his magic!

How did you conceive the idea of Tripling? Are the three prime characters inspired from your personal life? When’s the next season coming out?

I was asked by Arunabh Kumar to write a series based on a road trip. I love road trips, but I was sick of watching road trip series with friends. I mean, how many ‘Dil Chahta Hai’ and ‘Hangover’ sort of movies or shows can people watch! So yeah, while wrecking my brain over how I could make this different from the existing ones, one day, I just bounced the idea of a road trip with siblings and everyone loved it. We then, just took off from there. I roped in Akarsh Khurana. He is a friend and only hangs out with me when I work with him. A lot of things came from our personal experiences. Both, Akarsh and I have younger siblings and we have our respective issues with

them. So that helped (chuckles).

Next season would come in 2017. I think, February onwards we’ll start writing and researching on it and in a couple of months we should have a script.

You played a character with darker shades in Kajariya. Do you enjoy being ‘the nice man’ or do you prefer playing a baddie onscreen?

I enjoy both equally. Right now, as in this year, I’ve over done the nice man, so I’m itching to play an asshole (laughs). I’m dying to explore the black swan in me.

Kajariya is a very interesting film.

Personally, I only did his part because they wanted me to play a typical Delhi brat.

You are working with Kalki Koechlin for Ribbon. Have you started shooting for it? How has the experience been?

Yes, we have started shooting for Ribbon. It’s going very well. I love Rakhie’s approach. It’s very real and believable. Kalki is a very talented actor. She brings a lot to every scene, and I thoroughly enjoyed working with her. We’re all working very hard on this film.

Hopefully, it’ll all come together and people will love it.

Actor, writer, director. What other roles can we expect to see you in future?

Producer… Of, course!

Dec ’16 - Jan ’17

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#FHM

100 SEXIEST WO ME N IN THE WO RLD 2016 C ONTEST!

P rove t hat you ar e t h e i r b i g g e st fa n !

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FHMINDIA. COM

WHAT HAPPENS WHEN A PUNJABI JATT AND A LADY FROM ENGLAND DECIDE TO GET HITCHED! IT TURNS OUT TO BE THE MOST TALKED ABOUT WEDDING OF THE SEASON. BEFORE THEY TAKE THE VOWS, FHM GETS CANDID WITH THE BEAST AND THE BEAUTY!

Interview by SUDHAKAR JHA Art Direction SACHIN RUHIL Photography ANKUSH & KUNAL SHARMA Styling HARLEEN (RUBY) BHATIA Hair (Yuvraj) TRUEFITT & HILL/ APENI GEORGE Make-up (Yuvraj) APENI GEORGE Hair & Make-up (Hazel) JITIN RATHORE Fashion Assistant VISHAKHA SOMANI Location HYATT REGENCY GURGAON

Maverick Jacket, Sleeveless Tee & Joggers: YWC Fashion; Watch: Moto 360 2nd Gen; Shoes: Asics

COVER STORY

“Strength does not come from winning. Your struggles develop your strengths. When you go through hardships and decide not to surrender, that is strength.” These words from Arnold Schwarzenegger perfectly fit Yuvraj ‘the charmer’ Singh’s bill. The man of the moment is doing a lot of things in tandem; from scoring big hundreds in first class cricket to inspiring and helping patients recover from the trauma that is cancer; from introducing a new apparel brand to striving for another comeback in the national squad. And since his debut in 2000, he has never fallen short on energy and motivation to overcome the odds be it a tight match in the World Cup semifinals or a fight against cancer. Whatever he does, he does it with full vigour. So when the prince of Indian cricket has finally decided to knit another innings of his life, we too decide to become a part in the extravaganza, in our own way. As Yuvi and Hazel enter the location of the shoot an amazing chemistry is palpable under their customary smiles, which they soon shun to be replaced by genuine mirth and laughter. Thank heavens – we take a sigh of relief – they are not the mushy couple who end up making everyone uncomfortable with the outpouring of their love for each other. Instead, they play pranks, pull each other down, laugh at the others’ fumblings, and our presence in a generous number doesn’t stand in their way. Get to know the couple, as we talk to them about YouWeCan, marriage and love…

Hey Yuvi, congratulations on your impending marriage. Is the FHM team invited?

Hi. Thanks a lot! Yes, of course. We would love to have you guys over (haha).

What’s the first thing that caught your attention in Hazel?

I met her at a friend’s birthday party. Our first interaction carried a lot of positive vibes. I enjoyed talking to her. No matter how brief it was, it left me pretty inquisitive about her. She, of course, came across as someone very nice and genuine, and that left a pretty lasting impression on me.

What’s the most romantic line Hazel has used on you?

Casanova is a tag that the media gave me but I never liked it. I’m happy that the image has finally changed.

Umm… I don’t think she is really good with romantic lines. She is actually pretty bad (haha).

She goofs up really badly.

And what about you? How romantic are you?

Not much myself. I don’t understand romance. I try to be romantic sometimes by going out for a dinner date or just for a vacation. It’s really important to do that when you have to spend your life with your partner. You always have to make efforts in a relationship.

A match against Pakistan in World Cup or marriage. What’s more nerve-relaxing?

Umm… A match against Pakistan, of course. The pressure of marriage is always there, but the nervousness of a match against Pakistan is over as soon as the match gets over.

‘Man of the Series’ in World Cup or a successful proposal to Hazel. What was more satisfying?

Well, both are equally satisfying in their own ways.

Winning the ‘Man of the Series’ trophy in 2011 was the high point of my career. Right now, I’m tying the knot and that too is really satisfying. I’ve played cricket my whole life, but my personal life has to make some advancements too. I think I am finally going in that direction.

From being the famous Casanova of Indian cricket to finally settling down, you have come a long way. How’s the journey been?

Casanova is a tag that the media gave me but I never liked it. I’m happy that the image has finally changed. I think it’s a really special feeling for me that I’m getting married. It’s a big moment in someone’s life. I’m looking forward to it.

How does a regular day in the life of Yuvraj Singh look like?

A regular day depends on whether I’m playing or at home. If I’m on the field then I get up very early, do my regular exercises and try to give my best while playing. On other days I wake up relatively late, stroll around the house and eat a lot of home-cooked food. If it’s a training day then I hit the gym and move on to the swimming pool. I try to watch a movie in the night. Sometimes, I catch up with friends too.

The last few years have been very challenging and life-changing for you.

Have you ever wondered if your life would be any different had it not been threatened by cancer? (continued on page 70)

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I don’t think she is really good with romantic lines. She is actually pretty bad (haha).

COVER STORY

ello, Hazel. Congratulations! How excited are you about your marriage?

Hey, thank you! I am not very excited now. But I will be, when my family comes here for the wedding ceremony.

Let’s start from the beginning. Where and how did you meet Yuvi?

We bumped into each other at a common friend’s birthday party. Our first meeting was surreal. I actually didn’t know who he was. He just came up and said, ‘Hi, I’m Yuvraj Singh.’

And I said, ‘Yeah, I have heard your name somewhere.’

Was the decision to get married triggered by love at first sight or you guys spent some time understanding each other?

There was no love at first sight. We didn’t meet for three years after that party. There was no plan per se to marry each other. We met and things got along well and here we are now! He knew it before I did that we are gonna get married.

How did Yuvraj propose?

Oh, he took me to Bali and arranged for a very romantic dinner. And then he wrote it on a note. The moment was beautiful!

Is it going to be a fairytale wedding?

Umm… To be honest, it’s a mad state right now at home. There is nothing even close to fairytale. I never dreamt of a star-studded wedding, but Yuvi always wanted a big fat Indian marriage. For me, the excitement is that all my friends and family are gonna be in India for the first time for this wedding.

What are the things that caught your attention in Yuvi?

He is very kind. He is really giving in nature and has time for everybody. He is very patient as well. He waited for me for a long time to be ready to take our relationship to the next level.

he took me to Bali and arranged for a very romantic dinner. And then he wrote it on a note.

What’s the most romantic pickup line Yuvraj has ever used on you?

Pickup line? Never! He actually says that I walk like a man (haha). I think that’s our kind of romance and humour.

What’s the most memorable moment that you two have shared?

I think it was when I went to watch an IPL match last year! He scored a half century and blew a kiss towards me in front of everybody. I freaked out! We weren’t even dating back then and were just friends. Everyone got really excited about it and I couldn’t understand what was really going around. But I think that was really romantic of him to do.

Let’s talk about your childhood and growing up years. How fun was it growing

up in England?

It was pretty awesome! In England, you have amazing facilities for so many things. I and my sister used to go for swimming classes and dance activities. We would also go for singing in choir. You get to learn a lot of things as a part of your school curriculum. You know, it was great fun. We would also take trips to museums, and sometimes to abroad as well.

Tell us the craziest moment you remember from your childhood.

Umm… At 16, I wanted to go skydiving. But I had to wait for two years to do it. Finally on my 18th birthday, my friends took me to do it.

That moment was really crazy.

We got to know that you have a Bihari ancestry. Can you speak in Bihari?

Yeah, I do. But it’s a mixed thing. My family grew up in Mauritius, so they do speak Bhojpuri. I can’t.

How did you land up in Bollywood?

I was 11 years old when I got an opportunity to dance in a big Bollywood film in London.

That was my first step into Indian cinema.

Acting. Dancing. Singing. Modelling. Is there anything left for you to do?

Umm... I love anything which is creative. But I am not really good at sports. So maybe, I would like to play, but I am not really very competitive. I like to be involved in some sort of an activity. So, I would...

How will you be able to maintain the work-marriage balance?

I don’t really have to prioritise. It’s really great to be marrying someone who has no problem with me working even after marriage. Both Yuvi and his mom are very supportive in that way.

What’s your idea of a perfect date?

Take me to a picnic under the stars. That’s enough for me!

Yuvraj is a known prankster in the cricket circuit. Has he ever tried pulling a prank on you? Tell us an interesting story…

He has, actually. He pulls surprises more than pranks. He surprised me on my birthday this year. He was in Australia and arranged for gifts. He took me to a treasure hunt. And it was really sweet.

How soon are we going to see you again onscreen?

As and when I find something really interesting. I am someone who picks quality over quantity. I am more interested in the art than the money I’m making. Sometimes, I do things for fun too. I love item songs that have good beats. I did one that was called daanta saiyyan ne. It made me laugh a lot.

Jacket: Zara; Sports Bra: Adidas; Black Tights: YWC Fashion; Fitness band: Veryfit; Shoes: Asics

COVER STORY Umm… I don’t know actually. I never really thought about this situation. I think, had it not been for cancer, I would have still been playing for India and broken quite a few more records in the process. There are two ways to look at it now. May be I would have become a better player. But after all this, I have become a better person. It was a life changing experience for me. I got an opportunity to do better things in life, help people around me. YouWeCan is also a full time job for me and I feel that the whole journey has been really spectacular. There have been ups and downs, but I have definitely come out as a better person.

Tell us more about YouWeCan? Well, after fighting my way out of cancer, I wanted to help people who are suffering from it. I realised that the biggest problem was with the stigma behind the word ‘cancer.’ There is very less awareness in rural India about cancer and I wanted to help people who have been diagnosed with it. And the brand, YouWeCan was started.

The recently launched apparel brand is also an extension to what we’ve been trying to achieve. I always wanted to venture in apparel business. I think the products from YWC Fashion are, quality wise, really good. I hope it generates enough funds in near future, to help more and more people. As of now, we are helping about 25 kids with their education and growth. And the numbers should increase in the years to come.

When and how did the idea of a fashion brand strike?

I think it was about two years ago that I started working on a fashion apparel brand.

My CEO, Shazmeen and I came up with the idea of one and we worked day and night to get this started. We did full R&D on different brands and finally launched it this year. ‘Live and inspire’ is the mantra of the brand and we have inspired a lot of people through this.

What is fashion according to you?

Fashion is something which evolves every year. It is about being comfortable in one’s own self. For me, it is about ‘be what you are.’ To feel good is to look good and if the clothes look fine on you then you automatically feel confident about yourself.

On Yuvraj Leather Jacket: Voganow; Tshirt: YWC Fashion; Jeans: Diesel; Watch: Baume & Mercier, Ethos Watch Boutiques; Shoes: Brune On Hazel Dress: Deepankshi & Reena; Earrings & Watch: Swarovski

What brands fill your wardrobe?

Before YWC, I used to wear a lot of Diesel stuff. It’s a very cool brand.

What’s your role in YWC fashion? How involved are you in it?

Oh, my role is 24x7! For the last two years, I have been going to the factory and checking everything myself, from how the clothes are made to embroidery to how the printing is done. I have been seeing the hard work of people involved with me. Shazmeen and I have given it our all! We launched two collections last year and they have received a good response.

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Gown: Nachiket Barve; Heels: Koovs

COVER STORY

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On Yuvraj Suit: Zara; Shirt: Dhruv Vaish; Belt: Salvatore Ferragamo; Shoes: Brune; Watch: Hublot On Hazel Dress: Rohit Gandhi + Rahul Khanna; Shoes: Michael Kors; Earrings & Watch: Swarovski

COVER STORY Your life story is like a gripping script of a movie. Do you want a biopic to be made on you?

Well, I have been getting a lot of queries and offers for a biopic to be made on me, but I feel I still have cricket left in me. I want to give my 100 per cent till the 2019 World Cup. Hopefully when I’m done playing, I can sit on the script and decide!

Ranbir Kapoor has said that he would want to play you in the biopic. Who do you want to play you in the movie?

It’s really great that an actor of his calibre wants to act in a movie on me. It’s a big compliment. But honestly, I haven’t thought about it. As I said, I’ll make up my mind once I hang up my boots.

Talking of biopics, did you watch MS Dhoni – The Untold Story?

No, I haven’t got any time. I have heard some really good things about the movie though.

People told me that there is a junior Yuvraj Singh who looks like me. I plan to go and watch it soon.

Will we ever see another Yuvi-Dhoni partnership in the ground before one of you retires once and for all?

I don’t know. Only time will tell.

Do you like watches? What kind of collection do you have?

Yes, I love watches. I have a big collection actually. I have lost count on the number.

And what about bikes and cars? What does your garage look like?

I like cars more than bikes. I have a very small garage so there are about two or three of them.

Finally, do you see yourself playing for India again?

Hopefully, yes! As I said, I hope to play till the 2019 World Cup! I am working on my fitness.

I have scored about 800 odd runs in the Ranji this season and that should help me get back in the team.

On Yuvraj Iceman Jacket, Shirt & Tie: YWC Fashion; Shoes: Brune; Jeans: Diesel; Belt: Salvatore Ferragamo On Hazel Dress and Jacket: Ashish N Soni; Shoes: Jimmy Choo; Earrings & Watch: Swarovski

It’s really great that an actor (Ranbir Kapoor) of his calibre wants to act in a movie on me. It’s a big compliment.

BORED OF YOUR DAILY ROUTINE? GOT NOTHING SPECIAL TO DO THIS CHRISTMAS? WE’VE GOT SOME BADASS ACTIVITIES THAT’LL PROVIDE THE RUSH YOU ALWAYS NEEDED… P.S. WE DON’T CARE FOR OUR LIFE. BUT IF YOU LOSE YOURS, DON’T BLAME US! Words by SUDHAKAR JHA

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WINGSUIT FLYING What: Unlike skydiving where it’s a freefall, wingsuit flying uses the wingsuit to add to the surface area to the body that enables the body to glide in the air.

Where: Zephyrhills, Florida You need: Previous skydiving experience, a license, your logbook, and your own wingsuit.

How to do it: Florida is the home for skydive city, and the Z-Flock Wingsuit School provides personalised jumps.

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HELI-SKIING What: Jumping off a helicopter from 10,000 ft. could look cool on James Bond. But then, it’s for a movie. Do it yourself by taking a jump off the helicopter in Chugach, where 50 ft. of snow will welcome you. And if you are brave enough, you’ll make it past the course of rocks and tree-littered terrain.

Where: Chugach, Alaska You need: Ski or snowboard boots, sunscreen, sunglasses, and mountain-appropriate apparel.

How to do it: Book from those heli-skiing camps and get ready for an 80,000 ft. of vertical snow to ride. Take it to the next level by taking the ultimate package with a halfboat and half extreme skiing in the perilous slope.

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CROCODILE BUNGEE

What: Done enough of bungee jumping that you can boast of? Now is the time to take it to the pro level. Jumping off a dizzying height straight into the man-eating territory of crocodiles is the new spice of the sport.

Where: Zambezi River, Australia You need: Previous bungee jumping experience is a must.

Also, pray that the crocodiles have their tummies full!

How to do it: It’s more or less like regular bungee jumping.

Add some crocodiles to that, waiting to chew your head off.

Survive it and you’ll have a story to tell your grandchildren.

CAGE DIVING What: The adrenaline-pumper in you has probably seen enough of sharks on Discovery to try out cage diving. With just a few metal bars separating you from the 18 ft. long great white shark’s jaws under water, it is gonna be one of the most terrifying experiences of your life in this lifetime.

Where: Farallon Islands, California You need: Firstly, you don’t need a scuba diving certificate.

What you actually need is to go in the mating season of sharks from September to November.

Plan it accordingly, guys!

How to do it: Just get in the cage and pray for your survival.

There is not much you can do, anyway!

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5

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TRAIN SURFING What: Billed as an illegal sport, this one involves climbing or surfing on the roof of a moving train. A popular sport in the 80s, it has been revived recently.

Where: India, Indonesia and South Africa.

You need: All you need are enough balls to do it while avoiding death.

How to do it: Get on the roof of an overcrowded train and relax. If you need more thrill, stand on it and get the feel of the speed.

VOLCANO BOARDING What: Also known as ash boarding, it is performed on volcano slopes. Divided in two forms, one is to board down an active volcano where the immediate danger is the molten lava. Second is coming down of an inactive volcano which is quite similar to sand boarding.

Where: Cerro Negro Mountain, Nicaragua or Mt. Yasur in Tanna, Vanuatu.

You need: Balls to get down (one way or the other).

How to do it: Book at local trekker which provides equipment and a preliminary hike to the summit of the volcano for a dummy run down the mountain.

7

BLOWHOLE DIVING What: Blowhole is formed when the sea caves grow landwards into vertical shafts, resulting in water to blast its way out on top. It seems somewhere close to what happens with whales. How about diving your way out of that water!

Where: Hanauma Bay, off the island of Oahu.

You need: A diving certificate! Your guide might want to see you do a couple of extreme dives before taking you to the blowhole!

How to do it: Pick the right conditions: wait for a slack (incoming) tide and stay within 100 ft. of the shore. Also, keep your eyes peeled for marine life. It’s one of Hawaii’s most diverse dive sites, where you can spot green sea turtles, butterflyfish, and Spanish dancers.

WIN AT LIFE

OBJECT of desire

SPEEDX CYCLES The SpeedX Leopard and Leopard Pro are the future of cycling. Made with world’s finest carbon composites the cycles are strong, comfortable, aerodynamic and have a light frame!

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TECH CHECK

SPEEDX’S UNIQUE SMART CONTROL SYSTEM PROVIDES ALL THE CYCLING DATA YOU NEED: GPS TRAJECTORY, SPEED, DISTANCE, ALTITUDE, CALORIES AND WEATHER.

T

ogether with Fibertek, SpeedX develops proprietary methods and technologies to stack the bicycles with military-grade carbon fibre for increased stiffness and strength. With lifetime frame replacement guarantee and 30-day free exchange policy, the company boasts of confidence in its bicycles.

They are available in 7 different sizes.

A N O T I ROCK G N I R T S E O H S RILL D G N I S I T E N EMO D A R R U O O Y S H N I T A N T O N I M MA AN .

E U L O T Y E L F O T ’ T N U O O D KS .

HER C C A O H O T M R A G N M I S B E IB CREATE A CR ITH PANACHE WITH THES L I F E ST Y L E W Words by SIDDHARTH M JOSHI

The million dollar question is how seriously do you take your life? If this has got you even remotely into thinking the answer is, ‘very’. The more consequential your life, the more affected you will be with the ups and downs in its highways. There’s nothing wrong with being overwhelmed sometimes but if you start treating it like a light-hearted game, you may suck some fun out of the difficult times too.

So, your office is apparently going through a tough time and your bank account is as empty as the first-lady-ofAmerica’s head. You wait for one SMS from your bank, like

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Morgan Freeman in Shawshank Redemption waited for his freedom, in vain. Or your father’s cut you out from your birthright of pocket money, only because you grabbed a job at a zombie corporation and can’t even catch up on your recently deserted student lifestyle. Or worse, your Prime Minister announces an unprepared plan of amazement by recalling all cash denominations from the market. Whatever the situation, you’re broke and have no money to live like the wolf of wall street or even to rent it. It’s not the end of the world. Here’s how you can manage, in style.

Shop for some veggies If you’re a lazy bum and let your maid do the veggie shopping for you, it’s time to take that jute bag in your hands. She may not be robbing you of fives and tens necessarily, but is definitely not taking pains to get you a good deal from her favourite veggie thhela. Wake up early and go to the local wholesale farmers’ market to buy fresh vegetables. It’s cheap and you’ll be sorted for a week.

WHY TAKE THIS ADVICE?

a. You save a lot of money. The broccoli, the asparagus, the colourful bell peppers, the avocado and the lettuce seem fancy but are ultimately grown by our rural farmers. That’s where your supermarket sources it from and puts on display with a hefty price. b. If your fridge is stocked with all these you will be less tempted to order food from outside and lose that last money bill to some chicken of doubtful origin.

Regular pop-ups from installed apps are like Menkas and Urvashis of Indralok

Sabzi mandi offers veggies and fruits that are way fresher

Uninstall shopping apps Someone once taught you the phrase, ‘live life king size,’ and you’ve been wearing it on your chest like the best advise ever; ordering a Swarovski guitar only because your phone tempts you with a deal, or a negligee for a girlfriendin-the-making. But nope, not while you’re a hobo. Gift your mobile phone some extra space and uninstall all the shopping apps. Forget 70 per cent offs on Amazon, or the big billion days on Flipkart.

WHY TAKE THIS ADVICE?

These apps are amazing, but with the entire supermarket in your hands while you munch on something potato, they are likely to attract your attention to a lot of things you don’t actually want. As a temporary pauper, you must abstain.

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Get rid of credit cards

Do you know what is the most dangerous vision for a wanderer in the desert? A mirage. It gives him hope and disappoints him soon after. That’s a credit card’s unofficial tagline for you as a broke bloke. It may give you some respite, to spend the money that you don’t have, but when it’s time to repay, you will curse your decision a thousand times.

WHY TAKE THIS ADVICE?

a. There’s always at least one wise man who tells you about the spiral inferno you’re entering into as you apply for a credit card, but you don’t care. On every instance that you can’t pay back on time, your CIBIL rating gets affected and we’ve heard that’s a bad thing. b. With the many offers credit cards try to woo you, you tend to see watching movies and shopping as acts of obligation rather than necessity.

Cashback and earnback offers on credit cards are meant to lure you like game in a forest

Let your friends know They’ll crib, they’ll complain and they’ll threaten to disown you, but don’t give in

If you have a group of friends whom you go out with the most, they should know that you won’t be able to afford the gold class tickets for the next flick you watch. Especially, stay away from free radicals who have a tendency to tag along just for the sake of a free snack.

Make all the plans at home, maybe binge watch a season of Breaking Bad together to commemorate another season in the making.

WHY TAKE THIS ADVICE?

a. It’s always better to tell people the truth about an embarrassing situation than them finding it out themselves. Raising your shoulders in helplessness when it’s your turn to pay the share is not the best move. b. Maintaining your spending patterns at unfavourable times will land you in credit loaning situations.

You will have a lot to pay back for the next month or whenever your pauper-like status changes.

You’ve been planning to quit drinking like the drunken master without his kung fu skills for quite some time now. The last few girlfriends too quoted your drinking skills as their reason to part ways. This may be a good time and excuse to sober down and spend your evenings reading that new book rather than drunk dialling married exes to enquire after their sneezing kids’ health. Trust us, we know it’s hard with the winters coming, but sometimes you just have to pick your moments to make a (Br)exit.

Cut on booze It hurts to spend your weekends dry. But there are always cheaper options (wink)

HOW THE TEAM’S MANAGING ON A FORCED BUDGET CUT Maxing out on my credit card limit. I have to depend on my elders to spend on me (without of course, feeling great about it) and my savings.

Devika Ohri It’s been fine so far. Not really going out anymore. No going out means more time in bed.

More time in bed means more...

Hari Govind Nair

WHY TAKE THIS ADVICE?

a. If you’re a regular, you know drinking has costed you more than just relationships. There can be no better time to cut it down than this. Let this one be for happier kidneys and smaller eye bags.

‘Using plastic money is the best possible way’ is what they are saying (argh! why not!). Haven’t paid my domestic help yet. She’s serving her notice period already!

Sudhakar Jha

b. Going to a bar means much more than just ordering German crafts. They’ll loot you with just a plate of nachos because you know it’s just the start.

Make a plan for a rainy day Just remember, man was once a gatherer

Your dad has been telling you this, all your girlfriends have eaten your brains out with this, and random strangers still advise you on this on chronic promotional calls – investing your money to save up for situations like these. Now that you have no money to invest, this is the best time to read up on how to do it and make a plan.

Chances are if you develop the wisdom to save and invest, you may start spending a little wisely too. Imagine the things you can buy when you receive a cumulative amount at the end.

(We’re working on this one too.)

WHY TAKE THIS ADVICE?

a. It’s as true as every other word of acumen ever uttered. Hate it when these simple aphorisms come true!!! But they still do. b. It may even not be a rainy day, but saving means better resources for your next road trip to explore the world.

Thank God, especially lord Shiva! I already got my ‘stuff’ from the Himalayas last month and these guys only deal in hard cash. Now I’m up for anything. In a city like Delhi I barely deal in cash. So Chill Baba... In fact the new currency has more colours...

Sachin Ruhil I am a technology dud when it comes to paying through apps. So I miss my favourite street-side Chhole-Kulche lunch because of the cash crunch. But I am working on it.

Neena Haridas My debit card PIN is blocked, my credit card has long crossed its limit and sitting at a temple staircase for cash threatens of mosquito bites. So, I’ve taken on a more spiritual solution... torrents!

Siddharth M Joshi

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WHEN HERCULES HITS A HOMERUN

GOOGLE INTRODUCES A STUNNING PIXEL FROM ITS REPERTOIRE. THIS MAY BE THE START OF A GRIPPING NEW TALE. Words by SIDDHARTH M JOSHI

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here are two conditions that make a brand popular: an emotional connect with its punters or an impeccable product. Google, over the years, has successfully nailed it at both fronts. Not only is it a stripped down sine qua non of kinds for the human race on web but a trustworthy one too... something that has expanded its kernel like an underground rhizome, vertically, horizontally and if possible on the lateral sides too across market products.

Since 2010, when the giant debuted in the phone sector with Nexus, it has brewed quite a few flings with several mobile makers, from HTC to Samsung to LG to Motorola and more.

As the company finally launches the much ventilated Pixel – the first smartphone designed entirely by Google – with an audaciously minimalistic branding, great speculations and debates are doing rounds. It’s the price, the appearance, the performance and the impact of the phone on Android junkies’ favourite Nexus series that have taken the front desk. I’ve been using Pixel for the past one month now and it has delivered an extra biccy on every feature as promised. From the fingerprint sensor at the back, to a camera with the highest rating ever by DxOMark Mobile, critics have been filling up the e-space with everything you need to know about it. But it doesn’t matter how big a fan I have become of the new Pixel, or what the biggest prude on the web has to say about its stamina. It’s about who are the people willing to buy a Google product over an iPhone, its almost one point competitor in price and specifications. It will be interesting to see if Nexus loyalists will switch sides with a brand cousin or there’ll be more surprises too.

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This is my personal opinion, you are all welcome to rip it apart.

DEC ’16 - JAN ’17 / ` 125

NO

death defying sports TO TRY THIS WINTER

CASH TO SPEND? A chronic spender shows you the way

Rolling The Ball With Yuvraj & Hazel

WHAT CAN

TYRION LANNISTER

TEACH YOU ABOUT

SEX? INDIA EDITION VOL 9 ISSUE 12A

VOLUME 10, ISSUE 4 `90

OCT-NOV 2016

Robotics logistics in

[

]

A study on use of robotics in logistics and transportation

Volvo Trucks’ The Iron Knight

Mercedes Benz’s Vision Van

W H O ’S SHE? Age: 24 From: Canada Vital stats: 32-24-27 Instagram: @Stef.mindy

COOL ADVICE FROM

A HOT GIRL

STEF MINDI

HOW TO THROW A NAUGHTY CHRISTMAS PARTY Christmas is around the corner and we know that you need to throw the hottest party in town. Here is how to do it… Photography SUPHIL BRIDEAUX | Makeup BLUSHINGBELLES

HOW TO SEND NAUGHTY INVITES TO ALL THE FRIENDS? I WOULD SEND THE INVITES WITH THE TITLE, “NAUGHTY OR NICE!”

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WHAT SHOULD BE THE THEME (DRESS CODE) OF THE PARTY? I WOULD TELL THEM ALL TO WEAR UGLY SWEATERS AND BOOTY SHORTS! THEY ARE REALLY COOL AND NAUGHTY AT THE SAME TIME.

WHAT GAMES TO PLAY?

SANTA LIMBO! BECAUSE THIS IS ONE GAME WHERE EVERYONE REALLY DOES ENJOY BEING ‘IN LIMBO.’ AND PIN THE NOSE ON THE REINDEER.

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HOW TO GIVE THE PERFECT RETURN GIFT?

A KISS ON THE CHEEK WOULD BE A PERFECT GIFT. AND IF HE IS INTERESTED, THINGS COULD GO A LITTLE FURTHER (WINKS).

pandora’s box Theta series by Ricoh

Capture your complete surroundings with the simple press of the shutter button. Ricoh Theta will automatically adjust the image orientation so that you don’t have to worry about how you’re holding the camera. You can simply take pictures at the precise moment you choose. `39,995

TomTom Adventurer

Equipped with a 24X7 activity tracker, multi-sport mode, built-in heart rate monitor, music player, barometer, compass and automatic lift detection for snow sports, this GPS outdoor watch is built to elevate outdoor activities with dedicated sports modes. `25,999

Spectre by HP

Spectre is a mixture of design and technology taken to a whole new level. With a breathtaking composition that’s 10.4mm thin and comes with an Intel Core i7 processor, this luxurious laptop is completely irresistible. `1,39,990

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Beard lotion by Gangs of Beards

Be it long, short or just in the stubble phase, the lotion softens your scruff whilst also hydrating your skin. It also minimises skin irritation and combats brittle hair, leaving it soft and healthy. `399

Dual jacket by Spykar

This dual colour reversible sporty jacket flaunts laser perforations and a laid back vibe, when layered with a printed light wash indigo sweater. `3,999

Recycled tyre tube rugged bag

by Whitenife

To Be Rebel by Police

A strong and provocative concept for a fragrance that, in every detail, expresses uniqueness, personality, and transgression. It is inspired by the crested hair style, originally started by the English Punk movement. `3,187

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Whitenife presents a green new way to carry your belongings in style, with a whole new range of eco-friendly backpacks. It will be the centre of attention and durable keepers of your everyday essentials. `3,450