Feelings Feb - March

www.feelingmultimedia.com

celeb talk • lifestyle • Fashion • women • wellness • travel `50

FEB - Mar 2017

Vol. 10

TRAVEL

Postcard from China

VIEWPOINT Women on Top

HERITAGE

India’s Literary Gold Restored

WOMEN’S DAY SPECIAL Being Bold in Art

EXCLUSIVE:

Alia Unplugged

event report

Editor’s Note Dear Readers, International Women’s Day has come and gone but the flood of messages on my phone and otherwise left me a bit confused. On one hand there were messages exalting the woman and putting her on a pedestal. Others thanked her for her contributions in various fields.

There were rebellious messages too, calling out to women to break out of the shackles of a patriarchal society. Add to that the many invitations to Women’s Day celebrations. So why is Women’s Day really celebrated and is there a need for the hullabaloo?

Although the UN proclaimed March 8 as Women’s Day only in 1977, the first Women’s Day was observed as early as 1909 in February, in New York. It was to mark a strike by a Women’s Labour Union. A year later, inspired by the Americans, a German proposed celebrating an International Woman’s Day. Although a specific day wasn’t decided upon then, women across Europe used this day to demand equal rights at work and also a right to vote. Thankfully the latter is no longer an issue but equal rights/pay at work remains a contentious point even after more than 100 years. No doubt women have achieved a lot in every field but a majority have worked doubly hard and jumped over higher hurdles compared to men, to reach where they are. Men rarely realise this for they have never experienced it themselves. Which makes it one of the many reasons why celebrating Women’s Day is definitely a good idea!

Moving on, here is yet another issue full of entertaining and thought provoking stories, in equal measure. Read what Alia Bhatt thinks, explore a bit of China, know the views of women in top positions and much more...

Be curious, be happy, Till next time, Atul Shah Editor and Publisher

4 | Feelings

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Editor / Publisher

Director

Executive Director

Deputy Editor

Senior Associate Editor

Associate Editor

Vol. 10

Atul Shah Khyati Shah Deepti Dedhia Nandini Sanan Shankar Abid Mohammed Vijay Rohit

Columnists Ali Peter John, Sneha, Varun Shukla, Heeral Trivedi, Bejan Daruwala, Dr Anjali Chhabria (Guest)

Contributors

Aman Chhabra, Ashesh Pandia, Gita Vishvanath, Palak Shah, Neeti Chopra, Dr. Devashish Palkar, Nandita Derashri, Mehul Suthar, Kaustubh Athavale, Jigna Dutta, Darshan Vinayaka

Special Music Columnist

Creative Consultants

Photographer

Marketing Consultant

Legal Advisor

International Associates

Sujata Majumdar Guru Media Network Harshad Jhatakia / Jayendra Jhatakia / Chetan Mistry Arvind Purohit M. A. Modi USA | UK | Canada | Australia | Kenya | Oman | U.A.E | Malaysia

India Associates Delhi | Kolkatta | Chennai | Mumbai | Surat | Vadodara | Ahmedabad | Rajkot | Bhuj

Subscription Details

In India: ` 900/- (Including courier charges & special issues)

For abroad: 100 US $ (Air mail)

Cheque / Draft should be made in favour of “FEELINGS MULTIMEDIA LTD.”

Magazine Type

Monthly

Corporate Office: 102-3-104, Pacifi c Plaza, VIP Road, Karelibaug, Vadodara – 390 018. (Gujarat) India Phone: +91 (265) 2489477 Mobile: +91 97129 45133 / 98253 28488 Email: editorial@feelingsmultimedia.com, info@feelingsmultimedia.com Web: www.feelingsmultimedia.com Feelings Multimedia takes no responsibility for unsolicited photographs or material.

ALL PHOTOGRAPHS, UNLESS OTHERWISE INDICATED, ARE USED FOR ILLUSTRATIVE PURPOSES ONLY. Printed by Lippi Printing Press for and on behalf of Feelings Multimedia Limited.

Printer Address: Lippi House, Piramitar Road, Dandia Bazar, Vadodara - 390 001. Gujarat, India.

All rights reserved. Reproducing in any manner without prior written permission prohibited.

PUBLISHED FOR THE MONTH OF March 2017.

Contents

MARCH 2017

24 Cover

all set to soar Alia Bhatt opens up in a freewheeling chat with Sneha about her work, relationships and how the story takes precedence over everything else for her

70

FEATURES

INTERVIEWS

28 “ THE OSCAR CAME TO ME. I DID NOT GO TO IT” - JACKIE CHAN Abid Mohammed has a brush with the superstar and returns mesmerised by his charm and simplicity

69 G OING STRONG AT SIXTY P.K.Mahapatra, Sr. Divisional Manager (LIC), Ahmedabad talks to Jagdish Jhaveri about LIC’s accomplishments as it celebrates its Diamond Jubilee Year

38 T HE GRAND SOUTHERN SWEEP There has always been a rich exchange of talent between Bollywood and the film industry of the South says Ali Peter John

28

42 A WORTHY JOB RESERVATION Social Entrepreneur and Cosmic Artist Preeti Arora Thaker helps acid attack survivors get a new lease of life

36 “ INDIVIDUALITY IS IMPORTANT TO SUSTAIN HERE” Sneha meets the remarkable singer, Neha Kakkar, for a musical chitchat

42

70 T HE LATEST PUBLISHING PHENOMENON (TLPP) In a telephonic interview with Nandita Derashri, Savi Sharma, the latest literary sensation reveals bits of her own story

48 ‘ BEING BOLD FOR CHANGE’ Heeral Trivedi goes beyond the skindeep portrayal of women and talks about women artists who have been bold in their Art

MADE IN INDIA

54 L ITERARY JAMBOREES: BECAUSE THEY’RE WORTH IT! Palak Shah writes about the sudden spurt of Literary Festivals in the country and what makes them tick

57 A NCIENT FORMULAS IN A MODERN SETTING Kaustubh Athavale writes on his visit to Vasu Healthcare, a company with a vision for Ayurveda Chikitsa

60 W OMEN ON TOP What exactly does it take to survive on top? Aman Chhabra finds out…

MUSICAL NOTES

88 W EIRD, WACKY AND WONDERFUL STAYS Darshan Vinayaka comes up with the most novel hotels to be found around the world

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32 R EGIONAL POWERHOUSES: BREAKING THE SOUND BARRIERS Special music correspondent Sujata Majumdar talks about regional Indian singers who have made a significant mark in the music industry

facets of a woman, why healthy manwoman relationships are the need of the hour and the importance of Women’s Day

36

64 B ODY AND SOUL Dr. Devashish Palkar wonders at our labels of what is ‘normal’ and what it is not while conducting a medical camp for the differently abled 96 T ECH TALK Varun Shukla comes up with shocking repercussions of what would happen if GPS fails

FOOD

Essence of Seasoning by Masterchef Vikas Khanna 114 F ORTUNE TELLER Your horoscope for March 2017 by Bejan Daruwala

98

102 B OLD WORDS #thetweettalk

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80 C HEF INTERVIEW Michael Swamy tells Abid Mohammed about his latest experiments in the kitchen and wanting to become a vet, among other things

78 FASHION 74 M AJESTIC OPULENCE Pallavi Goyal presents her latest collection 78 T RENDSPOTTING Mehul Suthar shares a few sartorial tips on prints in the urban man’s closet and how he should wear them

IMMIGRANT DIARY 66 T HE KUMARS OF NORTH CAROLINA Gita Viswanath encapsulates the story of an immigrant family in US from a time when neighbourhoods there were still warm and welcomed foreigners!

HERITAGE 84 P RESERVING INDIA’S LITERARY GOLD Ashesh Pandia on his visit to the recently restored heritage structure, The Asiatic Library

COLUMN 46 G UEST COLUMN Renowned psychiatrist, Dr Anjali Chhabria writes about the common causes of depression, especially among Indian women

REGULARS 10 S HOPPING Shopping trends this season 14 A ROUND TOWN FEELINGS PRIDE OF INDIA AWARDS LAKME FASHION WEEK

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72 S TYLE FILE Jigna Dutta talks to Ishika Taneja, one of the most popular makeover experts in the country 91

RAVEL T Gita Viswanath gets lost in the past and then finds her way in quaint Zhouzhuang, the Venice of China

94 R ECIPES Michael Swamy shares some of his experimental recipes 98 BOOK REVIEW

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52 W OMEN’S DAY TALK Dr Niti Chopra touches upon the many

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letters to the editor

YOUR COVER STORY on “Vidya Balan” (Dec-Jan 17) reveals that in the world of measured quotes and figures, Vidya Balan continues to be refreshingly different. The roles that she agonizes over before finally selecting one, the hard work that she puts into each performance and then into the promotion, and the guts that she demonstrates in finding her own path, all come as a breath of fresh air.

There is no doubt that Vidya has created her own space in the highly FOLDS OF CLAY erratic film industry. She’s a very unique actor and we’re very lucky to have her.

Vinod C. Dixit, Ahmedabad THE ARTS

Heeral Trivedi writes on how Pottery evolved into a contemporary art form and of a few stalwarts who are making their mark in clay

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Feelings, I like the way you present your magazine. The covers are glamorous, yet subdued. Vidya Balan is one of the best actresses in the industry and it was interesting to read her interview. Waiting for the next issue.

Nitesh Ajmera, NY

Great work, Feelings!

Partha De, Kolkata I live in Mumbai and will definitely visit the Opera House after reading about its restoration in your Dec-Jan issue. As an amateur potter myself, it was an eyeopener for me to read about well-known Indian potters in your Arts section. The meaningful content of Feelings, makes it worth the wait!

Jaykaran Singh, Mumbai

WRITE TO US

T

alk of pottery in India and the first word that comes to mind is “kumhaar”, meaning the traditional village potter who can be traced back to centuries ago and whose lineage still continues to create vessels and toys in most Indian villages. In fact, it wouldn’t be wrong to say that there is a potter in every village of India, in every region, with his very own history. For example, Rajasthan is known for its famous blue pottery of Jaipur and the “murtikala” of the Molela village near Udaipur while villages of Tamil Nadu are famous for their terracotta figurines of gods and goddesses.

Traditional pottery flourished with trade and the need for creating functional products for transportation and storage. The clay that was and is still used, comes from the earth and goes back to it, surviving the test of time and dating back to the earliest civilizations of Egypt and the Indus Valley. Lamps, vases, bowls, teapots, toys and deities created by the kumhaar for domestic, religious and special occasions have very much been part of our lives as we grew up. These are replicas of the early containers that were pinched, squeezed or rolled and not glazed but well baked. Glazes were introduced in India through the influence of Arabs and Mughal art only around the 12th century.

Contemporary ceramic art, however, attempts to take pottery beyond mass production and has raised the humble clay to an aesthetic, unique and personalized art form. Ira Chaudhuri is a name that first comes to my mind as she is one of the pioneers of studio pottery. Still busily experimenting at 88 years of age, Ira has blazed a trail that has been followed by generations of potters in the last six decades. Through prolonged and bold experimentation, she mastered the art of precision in her decorations, using slip trailing, painting and the Italian technique of Sgrafitto. With undiminished enthusiasm even today, she works completely freehand on her pots and never runs out of ideas!

Her early years were spent at the Ceramic department of the well known Baroda Fine Arts. It was there in 1951 that she was first introduced to the wheel, only to get gradually addicted for life! With a long list of achievements and shows to her credit, Ira Chaudhuri says she’s a potter first and will always be one. She currently

DEC - JAN 2017

NATION SPEAK

HERE’S LOOKING AT TOMORROW As part of ushering in the New Year, Feelings spoke to a few prominent Indian personalities about the country’s future.

Here’s what they think...

Contributed by: Rutul Suthar, Nandita Derashri, Reena Brahmbhatt, Kaustubh Athavale

50 | FEELINGS

DEC - JAN 2017

I never knew that Kannauj is the perfume capital of the country!The subjects covered by your magazine are indeed well chosen. The ‘Made in India’ column makes me proud to be an Indian. Lata Mangeshkar’s interview was also a rare insight into the life of the living legend.

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Do write in and tell us what you think, at editorial@feelingsmultimedia.com Letters should include the writer’s full name, address and phone number. Letters may be edited for clarity and space

lives and works in New Delhi.

Another stalwart in the pottery sphere is Jyotsna Bhatt.

Known for her elegantly shaped animals, birds and pots with crisp lines and superb glazes, she is inspired by the minimalist and meditative quality of Japanese pottery. Her work often incorporates simple folk art designs borrowed from villages of Gujarat, giving them an earthy quality.

Describing her process, she very passionately refers to the medium as “maati” several times and how she finds endless possibilities as she stretches and pushes this natural plasticine. Interested in representing the medium

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shopping

BLING BLING

Jewellery to set your heart racing Peacock Collection by Navrathan Jewellers Timeless designs cast in pure gold with glamorous precious colored stones, make a statement and set new standards.

POR, Available at http://navrathan.com/

Classic Diamond Jewellery Collection Make an eternal statement with this collection.

Crafted to perfection in 18 K Gold and sprinkled with fine cut diamonds.

POR, Available at Anmol, Bandra (W), Mumbai

Multi - Pierced Earrings Multi-piercing earrings: Made with 18k gold these earrings have beautifully set diamonds and will complement any other earrings worn on the lobe.

Rs 5,434/-, Available at https://www.caratlane.com/jewellery/ multi+pierced.html

‘Saptapadi’ collection Award winning collection from Orra jewellery POR, Available at select Orra Stores

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wedding collection 22K gold necklace with cabochan ruby and polkis and a floral pendant in the centre with invisible pink ruby setting by Tanya Rastogi for Lala Jugal Kishore Jewellers.

POR, Available at all Lala Jugal Kishore Jeweller stores

Womens day collection from Orra jewellery POR, Available at all Orra Stores

Enamel collection Presenting a hue of colours in lightweight and statement jewellery.

POR, Available at www.AhilyaJewels.com

Bridal Jewellery collection Bridal Jewellery from WHP jewellers.

POR, Available at all WHP stores

Colonial Queen collection Radiating royalty, this collection is a lavish amalgamation of jewel treasures and conversation starters.

POR, Available at - Dwarkadas Chandumal Jewellers,Turner Road, Bandra West, Mumbai

Style By Ami Crafted in 18K gold, this collection features jewellery that’s elegant, lightweight and perfect for everyday wear.

Rs. 6,511/Available at www.CaratLane.com

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shopping

Shop TILL YOU DROP VitrA introduces its Juno Collection Offering a lavish bathroom interior ambience created with original Swarovski crystal joysticks and faucet rings enhanced with fine details.

POR Available at www.vitra-india.com/

Clutches and more!

Elletra offers a variety of stylish handbags for women of all ages.

POR Available at www.elettra.in/

WONDERCHEF UNVEILS ITS NEW COLLECTION! Caesar Casseroles- Finest, Classy and Regal pans for your new age kitchen!

Rs. 2699/Available at all leading stores

Laminate your floor Revamp your place with the finest flooring with easy maintenance and care.

POR, Available at www.pergo.co.in

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smoother, fresher skin The Body Shop British Rose Exfoliating Gel Body Scrub.

Rs. 1295/Available at all leading outlets

Wrangler’s Stars & Stripes Collection Designed with motifs inspired by the American flag, the Stars & Stripes top wear range has something for everyone. Rs,.2399/- for jeans and Rs,1199/- for top wear. Available across all Wrangler stores in India.

cool colours Duke combines the latest in fashion trends with classic charm in men’s shoes.

Rs 1999/Available at www.dukeindia.com

Maharani Collection

By Nargis This new range of heavily embroidered and embellished maharani collection is the hottest of the season.

POR Available at NARGIS, D-36, Central Market, Lajpat Nagar-II, New Delhi

cool colours VAPH- Icecream Sneakers Rs. 4,850/Available at www.vaph.in

Indian at heart Astitva presents timeless Indian ethnic ensembles and fine contemporary ethnic jewelry.

POR Available at www.facebook. com/astitvaindia

Reebok CLUB C The classic is back.

Rs. 5,850/Available at www.reebok.com

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FEELINGS PRIDE OF INDIA AWARDS, 2017

Images by : Harshad Studio, Chetan Mistry, Paresh Shah

Feelings English Edition was launched by Chief Guest Yuva Vaishanavacharya P.P. Shri Vrajrajkumarji with (from right to left) Shri Annu Kapoor, Shri Rahul Shukla (USA), Shri Dipak Shah (USA), Hon’ble Mr. Justice Pradeep Bhatt, Mr. Atul Shah (CMD-Editor, Feelings Multimedia Ltd.), Deepti Dedhia (Exe. Director, Feelings Multimedia Ltd.) Mrs. Sangita Shah, Khyati Shah (Director), Devanshi Shah, Shri C.B. Patel (Publisher-Editor, Gujarat Samachar & Asian Voice), at Feelings Pride of India Award-2017 held in Narayani Heights at Ahmedabad.

FEELINGS PRIDE OF INDIA AWARDS - 2017 W

inter is a very welcome season in Gujarat, for more than the obvious reasons. Also called the NRI season, it is when most Gujarati expats prefer to visit and also celebrate various festivals with their dear ones. Keeping these favourable conditions in mind, the Feelings Multimedia Group hosted its annual Pride of India Awards at Narayani Heights, Ahmedabad on the 7th of January, 2017. Juxtaposed with the Vibrant Gujarat Event and Uttarayan, the colourful Kite festival, this grand award function was held with the blessings of Yuva Vaishavacharya Goswami 108 Shri Vrajrajkumarji, who was the esteemed chief guest.

While the chairman and Managing Director of the FEELINGS group, Mr. Atul Shah greeted the guests and awardees, Neha Mehta of Tarak Mehta fame and Radio Mirchi RJ Dhwanit anchored the memorable event in their lively style. Hon’ble guests lit the lamp and declared the event open. This was followed by a mesmerising performance by EDM, the famous dance troupe from

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Mumbai and some soothing lines sung by Osman Mir from his forthcoming Sufi album. Touching speeches were made by many of the 32 distinguished awardees from India and abroad. The event was covered by ETV and Radio 1 FM. The Gujarati movie “Love Story ma Locho Padyo” produced by Ajit Gandhi of Promserve and Feelings was also promoted by Mr. Annu Kapoor in the course of the event and the “Narayani Holiday Club” of Narayani Heights was also launched.

Taarak Mehta fame Neha Mehta & Radio Mirchi (Ahmedabad) fame RJ Dhvanit Thaker anchoring the function.

As an ongoing tradition, Feelings has been honoring Indians who have excelled in their chosen fields for the past 10 years. Nearly 150 personalities have been awarded for their extraordinary work till date.

Feelings marked the event by releasing the latest edition of their International English magazine, which coincidentally was also the publication’s first anniversary.

And The Award goes to…

Mayuri Patalia chanting the Navkar Mantra in her melodious voice during the inaugural moments.

The “FEELINGS PRIDE OF INDIA AWARDS-2017” inaugurated with the “DEEP PRAGATYA” ceremony in presence of P.P. Vrajrajkumarji, Yuva Vaishnavacharya of Pushti Sampradaya.

Mr. Arvind Purohit & Mr. Atul Shah (CMD-EDITOR, Feelings Multimedia Ltd.) presented a momento to Yuva Vaishnavacharya P.P. Shri Vrajrajkumarji.

KOKILABEN DHIRUBHAI AMBANI HOSPITAL

In the Medical sector, The Feelings Pride of India Award-2017 was given by Mr Atul Shah, CMD, Feelings Group, to the Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital for providing state-of-the-art healthcare services in the country. Equipped with the latest medical technology, it has put India on the world map of quality healthcare providers, minimizing the gap between patients and the best available medical facilities.

Deepti Dedhia (Exe. Director, Feelings Multimedia Ltd.) welcoming Hon’ble Mr. Justice Pradeep Bhatt (High Court Gujarat)

Annu Kapoor, well known actor, anchor and singer was honored by P.P. VrajrajKumarji with the Feelings Pride of India Award. With him Mr. Gopiram Gupta, CMD-Narayani Heights.

A master-blaster performance by Abhilesh Goldie & his team.

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FEELINGS PRIDE OF INDIA AWARDS, 2017

The business couple category saw Cube Construction’s Mr. Sanjay Shah and Mrs. Bindiya Shah receiving the award from Gujarat High Court Judge, Mr. Pradeep Bhatt.

Vadodara’s famous bus depot which is the best in the country has been built by the Shahs.

Real Estate tycoon, Mr. Niranjan Hiranandani was awarded in the corporate sector. Here he shares his views on the Future of India. A leader in his field, he is responsible for India’s first 16 storied International Financial Services Centre at Gift City, Ahmedabad. Discussion being moderated by Mr. Vijay Rohit (Sub-Editor, Feelings) as Mr. Atul Shah looks on.

The Pride of India award in the field of education was given to Mr. Bhargav Patel.

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Sheth Brothers owner, Mr. Deven Sheth received the award in the Social service category. The company is famous for its Kayam churan.

The award for Social Service went to Mr. Raju Manwani, Chairman and Managing Director of the Castle Group of companies.

Cheteshwar Pujara was honored with the Feelings Pride of India award for excellence in Sports.

World renowned oncologist Dr. Jatin Shah who is based in New York, received the Pride of India award in Medicine. Dr. Shah specializes in Head and Neck Cancer.

Originally from Vadodara, he has been working at the Sloan Kettering Cancer Centre in NY for many years now.

Mr. Tulsi Tanti (Suzlon) was awarded with Feelings Pride of India Awards in the Corporate Category.

In Education category the award went to Mr. Hasmukh Shah. A writer in Pushti Bhakti Marg and Hinduism, he is also a motivational speaker. Originally from Mehsana, he now lives and works in USA.

Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE) CEO and MD Mr. Ashish Chauhan was honored in the Golden Achievement category. Mr. Chauhan has previously worked with the Reliance group and was also the CEO of Mumbai Indians, the IPL team.

The Feelings Pride of India Award for Travel went to Mr Jitendra Shah, Chairman of Heena Tours & Travels.

Gujarat Tourism was awarded for its excellent contribution in Tourism.

Mr. Osman Mir, whose ‘Mor Bani Thangat Kare’ (from Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s film Ramleela) is one of the most famous songs played during Navratri, was awarded for his contribution to Music.

Mrs. Krishna Pujara was awarded in the ‘Dynamic Women’ category. Based in England, Mrs. Pujara is Chief Executive of ‘Saheli’, a charity organisation for women. She earlier worked with The Princess Royal Trust, and is the recipient of many awards for community service.

Mr. Mahesh Savani receiving the Feelings Pride of India Award in Social Service Category. A businessman from Surat Mr. Savani has adopted 251 girls who are orphans and HIV positive, and given them a new lease of life – from educating them to getting them married. His name features in the Golden Book of World Records, Guinness Book of World Records and Limca Book of Records.

In the Corporate sector, Mr. Maulesh Ukani was awarded with Feelings Pride of India Award. Mr. Ukani is MD of Ban Labs Pvt. Ltd in Rajkot. The popluar oil ‘SESA’ and ‘RHUE’ were launched by him. He was awarded the ‘Rajkot Ratna Award’ in 2011, for his services to the industry and to the community through social work.

Mr. Narendra Raval from Kenya was awarded in the Corporate sector with Feelings Pride of India Award. Mr. Raval has built a multibillion iron business in Africa. Better known as ‘Guru’, he has been given the first class presidential award

by The Kenya Government for his phenomenal work. His name features in Africa’s Forbes list and in February 2016 he was the 46th richest person in Africa.

In the Social Service category, Mr. Narendra Thakrar received the Feelings Pride of India Award. A self-made entrepreneur Mr. Narendra Thakrar’s company Awnhill Ltd, was the only company in Asia licensed to distribute Olympic souvenirs in the 2012 Olympic games. He is also chairman of the Sanatan Mandir Trust in the UK and has received several other awards for his contribution to society.

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FEELINGS PRIDE OF INDIA AWARDS, 2017

Mr. Nilesh Mandlewala was awarded with Feelings Pride of India Award. Well known for his work in South Gujarat, Mr. Mandlewala procures organs from brain dead or deceased people and makes sure they reach those who are in need of them.

He has been appreciated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and also been felicitated with the ‘ Maharshi Dadhichi Sanman’ in 2009.

Entrepreneur Mr. Kanti Sudani was awarded with Feelings Pride of India Award. Mr. Sudani is CMD of Kantibhai Jhaveri Oil and Gas Pvt. Ltd. He has been actively engaging in social service for the past 30 years.

Entrepreneur Mr. Parimal Mehta (USA) was awarded with Feelings Pride of India Award.

Mr Mehta is CEO of Future Net Group (FNG) and Energy, and his work in the environmental, construction, technology and security sectors is well known.

Brothers Divyang and Bhavin Turakhia were awarded the Feelings Pride of India Award in the Young Achievers category. The Turakhia’s 100 million dollar deal with the Chinese when they sold Media.net, made history in the IT world.

Mrs. Sangita Choksi was honored with the Feelings Pride of India Award in the ‘Dynamic Women’ category. A civil engineer by qualification, Mrs. Choksi is a businesswoman and social activist based in Vadodara.

Mr. D. K. Surana received the Feelings Pride of India award in the Finance category.

Mr. Surana is the Founder and MD of Intensive Fiscal Services Pvt. Ltd.

Narayani Holiday Club was launched by Annu Kapoor and Hon’ble Minister Smt. Nirmala Wadhwani. Standing alongwith Mr. Atul Shah and Narayani Heights Pariwar.

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The Gujarati movie, Love Storyma Locho Padyo’s music was launched by Mr. Annu Kapoor in the presence of Mr. Ajit Gandhi of Promserve Advertising, Hon’ble Minister Smt. Nirmala Wadhwani (Women & Child Welfare), Ajay Umat & Mr. Atul Shah.

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Fashion

When stars shone

on the Ramp

The first and the biggest Indian fashion show of 2017 was quite spectacular says Abid Mohammed

A

bevy of Bollywood celebrities strutted down the runway, sporting varied designer creations at the recent Lakme Fashion Week Summer/Resort 2017.

Kareena Kapoor Khan, Tabu, Malaika Arora Khan,

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Nimrat Kaur, Aditi Rao Hydari, Sushmita Sen, Preity Zinta, Vaani Kapoor, Bipasha Basu, Diana Penty, Swara Bhaskar, Padma Lakshmi, Daisy Shah, Sophie Choudry, Swara Bhaskar and Ayesha Takia are only some of the big names that descended on the runway during the 5-day fashion extravaganza, where 90 celebrated

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Fashion

designers from across the nation gathered to show off their stunning couture collections.

Day one saw cropped bralettes and breezy floor-length skirts. Patterns and prints added a summertime easiness and the collection saw white cotton mixed with baby blues and pastel pink and coral. The opening show also invited Anjali Lama, Lakmé’s first ever transgender model to the stage.

Also showcasing was Eka which opted for breezy pastels and layering with capri pants, loose-fitting white shirts and baby blue neckerchiefs.

Day two had among others, Sayantan Sarkar’s collection ‘Beyond Boundaries’, which played with colourful gingham designs and plaid. Lipsa Hembram presented her label ‘Galang Gabaan’, filled with bright summer prints.

Day three saw Vaani Kapoor walk for Ritu Kumar’s ‘Maharaja Pop’ collection which was a fun and quirky take on classic royal designs. Vaani looked stunning in a floor-

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length lehenga with blue, red and gold floral motifs.

She teamed the ensemble with a sheer blouse and black velvet jacket, also covered in floral.

Bipasha Basu dazzled as the showstopper for Falguni and Shane Peacock in an elegant silver beaded gown with an attached mesh cape and silver embroidery.

Bollywood actress Nimrat Kaur became a breathtaking showstopper for Sonam and Paras Modi. Arpita Mehta took a Middle-Eastern spin on her ‘Island Life’ collection which featured Karishma Kapoor.

Day four saw Nupur Kanoi taking inspiration from traditional African tattoo and piercing rituals. She used tie-dye effects on ombre prints and grey functional pieces. Goan label, Savio Jon presented an eclectic collection of two outfits in one. The designer, Savio Jon Fernandes layered silhouettes from different decades into an array of unique ensembles. Tarun Tahiliani presented the runway with pastel-coloured Benarasi lehengas. Model Padma Lakshmi sashayed down the

catwalk in a salmon pink ensemble with gold borders and detailing.

The final day of Lakmé welcomed the likes of Malaika Arora Khan, Tabu and Sushmita Sen who strolled down the catwalk. Malaika walked for Divya Reddy in a chartreuse and red lehenga from the designer’s ‘Sahibzadi’ collection. Gaurang Shah celebrated muslin in his textile collection with Parsi Gara embroidery and Chikankari. This time, Tabu walked for the celebrity designer in an off-white and gold Indian ensemble.

Kareena Kapoor Khan returned to the limelight after giving birth to her newborn son Taimur Ali Khan at the end of 2016.

The actress and face of Lakmé Absolute glowed as the showstopper for Anita Dongre’s Grand Finale. The collection was inspired by Lakmé’s ‘Liquid Gold’ theme inspiring women to be independent and career-driven. ■

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exclusive interview

ALL SET to

SOAR

In the news for her soon to release film Badrinath Ki Dulhaniya, Alia Bhatt opens up in a freewheeling chat with Sneha about her work, relationships and how the story takes precedence over everything else for her

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lia Bhatt with her fresh face has this uncanny ability of making old stories seem like new.

The petite actress with elfin features has a childlike innocence about her which is deceptive for she already has an enviable repertoire of films to her name and a Filmfare award for the Best Actress (Udta Punjab) to boot. The talented young woman with a devil-may-care attitude, is riding high on the well-deserved success and fame she has achieved in the last few years. .

According to you how is Badrinath’s Dulhaniya different from Humpty Sharma?

If you remember in Humpty Sharma Ki Dulhaniya, Kavya was only a bride. But here Vaidehi is interested not just in getting married but has other aspirations too.

She wants to become an air hostess and travel the world.

She is an ambitious girl.

What kind of aspirations do you have when it comes to your marriage?

I don’t have any particular thoughts when it comes to the man. But I do aspire to have a certain kind of relationship. In our industry it is tough for a couple to spend much time with each other so one should understand that. Then one should understand my ambitions as an actress. I will never stop working because I am married and have children. The relationship should be strongly based on our friendship.

That is the most important factor.

Will you ever agree for an arranged marriage?

Not really. I am not in favour of arranged marriages at all. Neither do I think my parents will interfere in that matter. My preference will be most important when it comes to my marriage.

You have done films like Highway, Udta Punjab, Dear Zindagi and set your own bench mark in the industry. How was it working in Badrinath which is a romantic, light-hearted comedy?

I always say that no character is simple. As a matter of

fact the character which I am playing in Badrinath is tough because I know that I am not playing a character who is abused like in Udta. Here in Badrinath you need everything from good looks to comedy to romance and masala. So I find it very tough. For example, a film like Dilwale Dulhaniya Le Jayenge may seem like a simple love story but they actually make you believe in their love story. I agree though that it’s also a relief to do a film like this.

This is your third film with Varun Dhawan after Student Of The Year and Humpty Sharma. Is he a better friend or a better co star? How have you both grown as actors?

Firstly, Varun is a very good human being which makes him a very good friend of mine and also an excellent co star. We have both actually grown a lot since Student Of The Year. Now post Humpty Sharma we are back together again after doing many films separately. The first thing which is really commendable about Varun is the comfort level he is able to provide. I would say the same for myself as well. If he knows that I am nervous about any dance steps or he is anxious doing any emotional scene then we both sense what will make the other comfortable and try to give that.

At the same time we are very competitive in a healthy way, Varun always does that with me. Whenever we have some close ups, first he will get his taken. After that when I will do mine he almost always finds them better than his and will ask for his close ups to be taken again!

How do you select your roles?

First comes the story - that is very important. For me the story is king. I don’t mind working with a new director also if the story attracts me. I never select a role keeping in mind the hero I am working with or the production house. I take decisions from my heart and not from my head. For example, people always ask me why I did Shandaar. It did not work but how was I to know that when I signed it? So I have no regret doing it.

At that point of time I wanted to do it and I did.

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exclusive interview

“Varun is a very good human being which makes him a very good friend of mine and also an excellent co star.”

People around you talk a lot about your selection of certain roles. When I signed Dear Zindagi, no one was really sure about my choice, but then I never pay attention to what people say.

You have worked with many actors and directors. Who do you have in your wish list now?

As I said I never think of all this. The first concern is the story. I always wanted to work with Zoya Akhtar and that is happening now. I am also looking forward to work with Sanjay Leela Bhansali and Raj Kumar Hirani.

My character has to be strong enough to be the reason for my existence in the film.

When you work in a film do you focus only on your acting?

Never. I am someone who actually takes interest in every department of film making. Right from marketing to production.

You have achieved a lot at a young age,

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do you miss something in the midst of all that fame brings with it?

Ever since childhood I always wanted to become an actress. So there is nothing which I regret. Yes, people do ask me if I am missing doing anything. But I also do take holidays and go out with my friends. I get confused when I don’t work so I would say work is my passion. I matured early because I moved out from my home and have been living on my own now for quite some time.

You are working with Ranveer Singh and Ranbir Kapoor, two powerful actors in the industry. How does it feel?

I have never worked with Ranbir but I know how good he is as an actor. Imtiaz calls him a soldier on the set. He is in a very good space. I am very excited and nervous to share the screen with him.

Ranveer Singh is a man who has endless energy. I have worked with him on a series of commercials so I know how mad he can be. He is super energetic and it will be fun to do a full fledged film with him. n

feature

“THE OSCAR CAME TO ME. I DID NOT GO TO IT”

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Jackie Chan movies are always predictably wonderful, a rare combination of action and comedy which he delivers in his inimitable style. Abid Mohammed has a brush with the superstar and returns mesmerised by his charm and simplicity

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he legendary Jackie Chan was in Mumbai recently to promote his latest action-adventure movie Kung Fu Yoga which also stars Sonu Sood. Jackie attended to a host of questions with his characteristic boyish charm and ever-smiling demeanor. As a child Jackie was nicknamed Pao Pao, he revealed. Ask him why and he says, “Because I was born 12 pounds just like a cannon. A Mandarin cannon is called a Pao pao and that’s how I got my nickname!”

How is that he is always smiling when he fights? Pat comes the reply, “I don’t know how. When I am fighting I am so happy, so excited.”

The star is today idolised and loved in equal measure all over the world. But few know that the actor/director/ stuntman/comedian all rolled into one, had very humble beginnings. Chan was born in 1954 as Chan Kong-San to parents who were refugees from the Chinese civil war. In the early 60s, his family moved to Australia.

Young Chan wasn’t too academically inclined, so his father sent him back to Hong Kong where got enrolled in the China Drama Academy and excelled at acrobatics, singing and of course the martial arts. After minuscule roles as a child artiste in a few films, he got his first big break in The Chinese Connection aka Fist of Fury (1972) and then Enter the Dragon (1973), both of which featured martial arts superstar Bruce Lee. Due to a sudden lull in Hong Kong cinema, Chan then moved back to Canberra with his parents where he attended college and also worked at a construction site.

His love for cinema however motivated him to come back to Hong Kong after a few years and he appeared in a spate of low-budget martial art movies. His first major breakthrough came when he starred in Drunken Master (1978). Lee’s demise in 1973 had left a void in the martial arts genre and Chan was seen as the potential next legend. His comic timing, nifty moves and boynext-door-charm worked in his favour and he soon became a star.

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Feature

About film-making he says, “My philosophy is to do a movie that I can finally watch with my children. If I can show it to my children then I can show it to all the children in the world. When I create an action sequence I create a rhythm first. When you just do fight sequences that go boom, boom, boom, it gets very boring and violent. But not if you fight like you are dancing.” This has indeed worked for him as his fights sequences are a delight to watch and unlike any others anyone may have seen.

Does he practice yoga? He says, “Not yoga but Chinese martial art is quite like Yoga. I think when it’s slow it becomes Yoga and when it’s fast it’s martial arts, it’s Kung Fu.” Talking about his experiences he narrates how everyone automatically defines him by his on screen persona, “In one shot we had to go under water in freezing temperatures for a long time. As soon as the shot was over everyone came to help the actress but no one came to help me. I was drowning but they thought

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“I think we should make more movies together.

We have the largest human populations and we should get together for world peace.”

I am Jackie Chan, a superhero, who doesn’t need any help. But I am not a super hero, just a normal human being.”

Jackie is a trained singer who has sung in many of his films but how difficult was it dance on a Hindi song?

“For me the beginning was difficult. The most difficult part is that I cannot move my head like everybody else here. In India it’s natural for everyone but for me that

was the most difficult part. Later on I told the teacher to choreograph easy steps for me like ‘change the bulb’, ‘fly the kite’ or ‘hit the ground’ kind of moves because I thought that there would be so many people who will learn from me. And I was right. After our song went on online the whole of China is moving with this exercise dance like Zumba,” he says.

And how does he rate Sonu Sood action-wise? “Very tough! He learnt so quickly and then in a week he knew the rhythm and the timing,” he added.

The 62-year-old says his inspiration of still doing his famed action moves at this age is his fans all over the world. “I do get scared, sometimes I think probably this is my last shot. But every year, every day, every month I go to back to my office and I see all the letters from around the world. When I see my fans who I can’t meet one by one, then what else can I do for them? The only thing I can do is make more movies with comedy, action, and appear in different kind of roles. That’s the best present I can give to all my fans,” says the actor who has more than 250 movies under his ‘black belt’!

“I don’t know how many years I can continue to make films, but as long as I can move, I will do the best for you”, he adds.

When asked who his favourite Bollywood star is he admits it is a difficult question, “But I would say Amir Khan and Salman Khan.” Jackie Chan is also quite impressed with Bollywood’s dance style and thinks it has improved a lot. He says, “When I was 16, I watched Bollywood movies.

I didn’t understand the language and I went away after seeing the dance.

But for the last 15 years, I have watched more Bollywood movies.

Why? Because of the dancing, the movements are so good! I think probably the best in the world!”

Will he do more Bollywood movies?

“I want to do it. Ask some Bollywood director to hire me. No more action for me, I want to dance and do a love

story. I tried very hard to do it (Bollywood film) but the script did not work out. But after 11 years I am back here. It’s one of my dreams to do a Bollywood film.”

Comparing Bollywood to Chinese films he says, “Earlier like Bollywood, in Chinese films too the action and dancing were not up to the mark. We did not have budgets. But now we have the money and technology to train people. Currently, Bollywood produces some of the best films in Asia.”

“Ask some Bollywood director to hire me. No more action for me, I want to dance and do a love story. ” The 62-year-old action star was awarded an honorary Oscar at the Eighth Annual Governors Awards at the Hollywood and Highland Center in Los Angeles. It is something he had never thought about apparently, “When I made movies I never thought about any awards because my movies were cheap, comedy and action movies. I didn’t care as I made movies for the audience and not for awards. Irrespective of whether it does well at the box office, I risk my life for every movie. They probably saw that even after 56 years I did not change; I was doing the same thing, which is why they decided to give me the Oscar. I think one should continue to do their best always. No matter what the job you do, just do the best you can and the Oscar will come to you! Oscars came to me, I did not go to Oscars.”

Talking about Indo-China relations he says, “I think we should make more movies together.

We have the largest human populations and we should get together for world peace.”

Ending on a positive note, the lovable Chan said, “I come here for making movies, charities and film festivals. Now that I have made some friends, I will come more often.

I know Indian people love me and I love you all!” n

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musical notes

REGIONAL POWERHOUSES: BREAKING THE SOUND BARRIERS

Special music correspondent Sujata Majumdar talks about regional Indian singers

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usic has no language’, they say.

Undoubtedly, the melody comes first, not the words, and with it comes a musician’s inherent power to unite. If the music is special then it stays with you long after the film is over. Over the years, the Indian music industry has seen a number of talented music composers from the country’s many different states, all of whom have broken out of their regional constructs because of their innovative music. Some names that immediately come to mind are A R Rahman, Vidhyasagar, Illayaraja, Yuva Shankar Raja, Avdhoot Gupte, Gurdaas Maan, Jaidev Kumaar, Shantanu Moitra and Arvind Barot. There are more though who are making the industry dance to their tunes! These composers have been consistent in composing melodies with a universal appeal that have soothed the ears of their listeners. Sujata Majumdar brings us an insider’s view of what is special about these music makers:

Vijay Antony (Tamil): A well known name in the Tamil film and music industry, Vijay has composed, sung and even acted in many films. As a music director his best known films are Naan Avanillai , Ninnaithale Innikum, Kadhalil Vizhunthen and Salim. His song “Nakka Mukka” remains the landmark of his career. The main characteristic of Antony’s music is that he always composes keeping in mind the likes and interests of youth.

Devi Sri Prasad (Telugu): This young composer is best known for his works in Telugu Cinema. He has received several awards for the Best Music Director. His most acclaimed music is from films like Varsham, Nuvvostanante Nennoddantana, Bommarilu, Gabbar Singh, Attarintiki daredi and of course Srimanthudu which recently fetched him the IIFA Award South for Best Music Director (Telugu). Many of his popular soundtracks have been dubbed and remade in various other languages.

M Jayachandran: (Malayalam): One of the most sought after composers in Malalayam films, Jayachandran received the National award this year as Best Music Director for the film Ennu Ninte Moideen. A recipient of many more esteemed awards throughout his career for films like Celluloid, Pranayam, Karayilekku Oru Kodal Dooram, Madampi, Nivedyam, Nottam, Perumahakkalam, Gaurisankaram, etc, Jayachandran has carved a niche for himself in the music industry.

His music is an amalgamation of Indian and western classical. The orchestration of his songs is a delight to the ears. His composed songs “Pattil e Pattil” and

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musical notes

“Kathirunnu Kathirunnu” sung by Shreya Ghoshal are an absolute treat for the ears.

others. His background scores in Chander Pahar and Baishe srabon have also been much appreciated.

V Harikrishna (Kannada): A winner of 3 consecutive Filmfare awards (Best Music Director) for Gaalipata, Raaj- The Showman and Jackie, along with many other prominent awards, this inventive composer has made an exclusive place for himself in the Kannada film/music industry. Most of the films for which he composed music went on to become musical chartbusters. His songs from films Prince, Hudugaru, Vishnuvardhana, Saarathi, Paramathma, Jogayya, Topiwala, Bachchan, Bulbul, Kaddipudi,Gajakesari, Fair & Lovely and Ambareesha are worth listening to. Harikrishna has always kept pace with the current generation’s preferences and his songs are mostly groovy and melodious.

Samir Rawal (Gujarati): A popular name in Gujarati Music, the versatile Samir began his recording career by composing music for advertisement jingles, TV serial title songs and background scores. He eventually went into mainstream films and albums.

He composed, arranged and released the first ever Gujarati Rap Album “Diwani Diwani Diwani” which was a superhit. He has rendered music for many Gujarati movies among which the most acclaimed are Veer Hamirji (Nominated for an Oscar), Good Road (National Award), The Advocate, Teenager’s Gang, Samarpaan, Whiskey is Risky, Koine Keso Nahi, Bhad no Dikro, Dikro Maro Ladkvo, etc. Samir has always used an element of Gujarati folk in his creations.

Indradeep Dasgupta (Bengali): West Bengal is a hub of numerous talented composers. Among several such talents, Indradeep has built a distinctive place in the Bengali film and music industry. The secret of his success lies in the fact that he is equally capable of composing music for commercial cinema as well as parallel cinema. His work in films like Chaplin, Bor Ashbe Ekhuni, Kanamachi, Raajkahini, Charulata 2011, Baaishe Srabon, Le Chhakka, etc have bagged critical and public acclaim. Despite being a modern composer, Indradeep has always inserted traditional classical chunks in his music thus making it more interesting. His songs “Mon Bawre” and “Patton ka hai jismo jana” are the most hummable among

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Babbu Mann (Punjabi): Multi talented Babbu Man has composed, written and sung many songs and created a unique fan following for himself which is not only restricted within Punjab but is spread worldwide owing to his power packed music and singing style. A winner of four World Music Awards, this Punjab da munda is equally successful for his albums, singles and film songs. His music in films like Hawayein, Rabb Ne Banaiyan Jodiean, Hashar : A Love Story, Ekam – Son of Soil, Desi Romeos, Waagah, Dil Tainu Karda Hai Pyar, etc are fondly remembered. .

many more. The duo have played a significant role in bringing Bollywood’s attention to Assam by working with legends like Subhash Ghai, Lata Mangeshkar, Asha Bhosle and Kishore Kumar. These sincere composers have always composed original and fresh music, staying away from copies or replicas.

Dhananjay Mishra (Bhojpuri): With Bhojpuri cinema gaining popularity over the last few years, Bhojpuri music too has achieved a new place with several composers getting a permanent position in the industry. Dhananjay Mishra is one such composer who has received several awards for his music. His compositions are best in the films Pyar ke bandhan, Hum Bahubali, Ek duje ke liye, Bhoomi Putra, Srimaan Driver Babu, Aj ke karan Arjun, etc. His non filmy music albums i.e. Budhau Baba Maanagat Baade Dil, Pyar Ke rog Bhail, Fagua are superhits as well.

Jeetu Tapan (Assamese): Jeetu Tapan (Music Director Duo): They are famous for their music in Assamese movies like Manab Aru Danab, Adalat , Megh, Anutap, Nayanmoni, Manchghar, etc. They maintain their roots with Assam and their music is popular all over Assam through movies and albums like Tyaag, Deuta Diya Bidai, Bohagota Nahila and

Ajay Atul ( Marathi): They experiment with different forms of music and incorporate the same in their Marathi compositions.

This has helped them to rise above average right from the beginning of their career. Together they did an international non-film music album “Vishwavinayaka” which paved the way for their foray into the Marathi music industry. Their musical score shines through in many commercial jingles, ballets and advertisements as well. Memorable compositions include Man Udhān Vāryāche, Malhāravārī and Kombdī Paḷalī. They composed the songs and background score for Marathi film Naṭarang which was influenced by traditional Marathi folk music forms like Lāvaṇī, Phaṭakā and Tamāśā. And their music in the recent, highly acclaimed Marathi film Sairaath has created worldwide history. n

Sujata Majumdar is a wellknown playback singer and our special music columnist

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exclusive interview

“Individuality Is Important To Sustain Here�

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eha Kakkar has come a long way in the music industry and that too at a very young age – she is not even 30! No wonder though, for the successful playback singer started singing devotional songs at the tender age of four, when most of her contemporaries were probably still learning how to talk! Apart from hearing her popular renditions, you can also see Neha on Zee TV where she is currently a judge for the kids singing reality show Saregamapa Little Champs on Zee TV. Sneha meets the remarkable singer for a musical chitchat:

How will you define the current phase of Indian music?

Very positive and productive. It is positive because all kinds of songs are welcome now. People are also glued to recreated songs. I have personally been part of a few songs like that - Kala Chashma and Mahi Ve have been beautifully recreated and listeners have loved them. I do agree that there are times when the remakes have not been received as well but it entirely depends on the making.

do you miss something in the midst of all Any musical memories from your childhood?

I started singing when I was four. My elder sister, Sonu Kakkar and brother, Tony Kakkar are also singers and we all used to sing in Delhi at Mata Ki Chowki and in Jagarans too. While singing on stage during the chilly winter days I remember seeing other people wearing warm clothes and wondering why I couldn’t do that.

I also remember my first payment of hundred rupees for singing devotional songs in Mata Ki Chowki. Now the value of money has changed, but I still value those hundred rupees! I used to sing so that I could study. We struggled a lot and by the grace of God and blessings of my parents, I have reached here today.

What would you attribute the success of your songs to?

Our industry is full of talented singers but I personally believe the singer should have a unique voice so he or she can create an impact on the listeners. I always give my personal touch to the songs I sing, so that the listeners are able to identify that this is sung by Neha Kakkar. Individuality is important to sustain here.

Describe your journey in the music industry until now.

I participated in a music reality show and made it to the top eight but got eliminated after that. That was quite upsetting and I then thought that I have no future here, but destiny had a different plan. I survived because of my unique voice and ended up singing a long list of songs, all of which became hits from Manali Terence, Blue Hai Pani Pani, Mahi Ve to Kala Chashma. The journey has been fruitful so far and I am thankful to my fans also who have showered me so much love and affection.

Do you miss anything from your early days? How do you unwind?

Not really. As I have mentioned earlier, my family and I have struggled a lot to reach here. I have no regrets in life. I travel constantly for my shows and after the show is over I try to explore the place I am in. So that is how I unwind myself. I am fortunate that because of my shows I have seen so many places all over the world.

Who is your inspiration when it comes to music?

My inspiration in music starts with my sister Sonu Kakkar who I have been listening to ever since I can remember.

I consider her my idol. Of course, Lata Mangeshkar and Asha Bhonsle are all time inspirations and then I also adore Shreya Ghosal and Sunidhi Chauhan.

What kind of a judge are you on the show?

Well I am definitely strict when it comes to melody and sur. Judging kids is a tough job! I cried a lot during the auditions when I had to eliminate some kids. It was quite emotional for me as I too have gone through an exactly similar phase in a reality show.

You have sung for many leading ladies of Bollywood. Who is your favourite and why?

I really enjoyed singing Ladki Beautiful for the movie Kapoor & Sons. I have also sung the title song of Alia’s next film Badrinath Ki Dulhaniya. Alia once mentioned that she likes my voice a lot and that is a big compliment for me. Singing Kala Chashma for Katrina Kaif was fun as she has done the full justice to the song with her brilliant performance. n

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feature

THE GRAND SOUTHERN SWEEP There has always been a rich exchange of talent between Bollywood and the film industry of the South. Nothing explains this phenomena more than the several doe-eyed beauties who have conquered our hearts and imaginations, says Ali Peter John

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wonder if the Hindi film industry would be the same without strong support from the South. There have been big banners from the South who have made the most successful Hindi films. Some very successful southern films have inspired filmmakers to base their Hindi films on them. But the one field in which the South has enriched Hindi cinema the most is the actresses who have come from the region - they not just secured a place for themselves but went on to become stunning leading ladies, while their Hindi speaking counterparts looked in awe!

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There was Waheeda Rehman, a girl from the interiors of Hyderabad who was launched in a Telugu film which was a big success. It was at the celebratory party of the film that Guru Dutt who was on the lookout for talent

from the South took one look at the young Waheeda and invited her to try her luck in Hindi films in Bombay.

She did not think twice and Guru introduced her to his mentor, Dev Anand who put in a word for her to Raj Khosla who was directing a film for Navketan called ‘CID’. Waheeda made a striking impact in the film.

Guru Dutt then took a leap of faith, casting her as a cheap prostitute in his own film, ‘Pyaasa’, an all time classic. The rest as they say is history!

Next he cast her as the heroine in what he considered his most ambitious film, ‘Kaagaz Ke Phool’ with himself in the lead. Another classic, the film was ahead of its time. With a dark tragic story, it was a major disaster at the box-office. The film’s failure and rejection in love

by Waheeda led the talented Guru Dutt a step closer to self-destruction and he was found dead at just thirtynine. Whether it was suicide or not is still a matter of speculation.

Waheeda went on to become the favourite leading lady of Dev Anand and they starred in seven films which ended in a kind of finale with the grand success of ‘Guide’. She also worked with all the leading actors of the time including Dilip Kumar, Raj Kapoor, Raaj Kumar, Manoj Kumar and Dharmendra down to the superstar Rajesh Khanna. At 75, the still gorgeous Waheeda is busy, now acting as a mother figure in some notable films.

In the fifties, there was another girl who came from the South who had worked in Tamil films. She too was attracted to try her luck in Hindi films. Her name was Vyjaynthimala. She was not only a pretty face, but was also a very competent classical dancer. Like Waheeda, she rose to new heights of success. She was paired with all the big heroes and even the directors who Waheeda worked with and was at her very best when she worked with Bimal Roy and Raj Kapoor in films like “Devdas”, ‘Madhumati’ and ‘Sangam’. She finally gave up acting after Raj Kapoor’s ‘Sangam’ which led to a lot of controversies about the ‘affair’ between Raj and her.

In her autobiography she denied that there was anything more than a professional relationship between Raj and her, only to be taken by rude shock when Raj’s son, Rishi Kapoor openly came out with the story of his father‘s affair with her and how his family suffered

because of the relationship. Rishi’s statement in the press led to the crashing of the sales of her book.

Later, Yash Chopra offered her the role of Amitabh and Shashi’s mother in ‘Deewar’ which she declined. It then went to Nirupa Roy, giving her a new lease of life as she shot to fame with Shashi Kapoor’s line for her, “mere paas maa hai”. She became the most wanted ‘mother’ in Hindi films, till she died unknown. Vyjayanthimala later took to politics at the request of the late Rajiv Gandhi and won two elections to the Lok Sabha, losing the third very badly. She married a doctor, Dr. C.L Bali who was introduced to her by Raj Kapoor, and now runs her own dancing academy in Chennai.

At around the same time there was another actress called Padmini who also came in from Tamil films, but she could not make it as big as Vyjayanthimala. The only film she is really remembered for is Raj Kapoor’s mindblowing dacoit film ‘Jis Desh Mein Ganga Behti Hai’. The last time she was noticed was in Raj Kapoor’s magnum opus, ‘Mera Naam Joker’ which was also his most disastrous box-office failure. Padmini then married a doctor and settled down in America where she died some time ago.

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The late seventies and eighties saw two other girls from the South who came to Bombay, the first was none other than the ‘dream girl’ Hema Malini who was and still is one of the best known success stories among Indian actresses. She broke tradition when she married the already married Dharmendra and had two daughters with him, Esha and Ahaana. She is also a leading producer and director (she was the first to sign Shah Rukh Khan as a leading man in her first film as a director, “Dil Aashana Hai”). Hema continues to look beautiful at sixty-nine and is one of the most popular leaders of the BJP and a member of the Rajya Sabha.

The other actress who came in at the same time was Bhanurekha, the daughter of well-known Tamil romantic actor, Gemini Ganesan and Pushpavalli. She got her first break when she was just thirteen and was forced to do a kissing scene with Biswajit. She shot to fame with ‘Saawan Bhadon’, a golden jubilee hit which set her on the road to fame. Known as a ugly duckling in the beginning she underwent a radical transformation and took her acting to another level. She has always been in the limelight due to the many controversies connected with the men in her life, the most prominent being her so called unending affair with “him” (that is how she still refers to Amitabh Bachchan with whom she has done the maximum number of films. She claims he is the inspiration behind the metamorphosis in her life).

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The nineties saw the emergence of two other girls from the South who had already made a name for themselves - Sridevi and Jayaprada. Sridevi started when she was just fourteen in an arty film called ‘Solvaan Saawan’ with the ‘poor man’s Amitabh’, Amol Palekar.

She was not very successful, but some years later she came back with Jeetendra in a “hot and hit masala film” called ‘Himmatwala’. Branded “Miss Thunder Thighs” because of a scene of her in a swim suit, she played the typical singing and dancing roles in film after film and was in the running for the number one position.

However, there came about a grand transformation in her in films like ‘Chaalbaaz’, ‘Mr. India’, and ‘Roop Ki Rani Choron Ka Raja’. She was however at her very best in films like ‘Khuda Gawah’ and ‘Aakhree Raasta’, both with Amitabh and the films she did with Yash Chopra, ‘Chandni’ and ‘Lamhe’. She became the official number one with Madhuri Dixit running a very close second. It was at this best time of her career that circumstances brought her close to Boney Kapoor who she ultimately married and they had two daughters. She gave up her career for fourteen long years and not too long ago came back with ‘English-Vinglish’, proving

her mettle as an actress yet again. She is being very selective and of the several roles offered to her recently has agreed to do only one film, ‘Mom’. How this new phase in her life pans out will be interesting to see.

Jayaprada, her contemporary could have also been in a similar position when it came to acting but she seemed to have a wavering mind and lost out on some of the best roles.

She was successful for a while doing films with Amitabh, Jeetendra and Rajesh Khanna, but once that phase was over she was no more in demand the way Sridevi was. The two also acted in the same films but Sridevi always emerged the winner in spite of Jayaprada being much more beautiful and equally talented. She made some more mistakes when she got interested in politics and followed the wrong politicians. Today Jayaprada who Satyajit Ray said was “the most beautiful face I have seen” is lost in the crowd as no one in the industry is willing to take her seriously.

In between these years there have been other very fine actresses like Laxmi, Revathy, Bhanupriya, Jayasudha, Radhika, who have also come to Hindi films but have returned unsuccessful. Of late, we have girls like Assin, Shruti Hassan and her sister Akshara trying to make it in Hindi films. Of all of them it is only Assin and Shruti who have shown the potential of making it big. Whether they will depends on what they choose – a career in Hindi films or in the South.

This relationship with the South has worked the other way round too when girls from Mumbai who were unsuccessful in Hindi films were welcomed with open arms in the South with the best of offers and money they

could only dream of. Khushboo, the one- time child actress of Hindi films was one such. It was her ambitious mother who took her to the South and with just the first few films in Tamil, she was the “Amma” of the South, a most wanted and successful actress who even had a temple built in her honour.

Her fans worship her as a goddess.

Nagma who had started her career in Hindi with actors like Salman and Shah Rukh Khan also moved to the South and became the number one, highest paid actress in Telugu films. Tabu who had not even thought of acting as a career reluctantly agreed to do a film in Telugu and was soon offered the typical Hindi film heroine’s role in which she was not interested. She would probably have even given up if some good films like ‘Viraasat’, ‘Hindustani’, ‘Maachis’ , ‘Astitva’ and films made by Mira Nair would not have come her way.

The late Divya Bharati also started in a blockbuster Telugu film which paved her path to Hindi films.

Two new girls from Mumbai who are playing the same game are Kajal Aggrawal who has more than proved it with a couple of successful Hindi films including ‘Singham’, and Tamannah Bhatia who starred in the remake of Sridevi’s ‘Himmatwala’, which unfortunately flopped at the box office.

Lastly, how can I forget the one girl who came in quietly from Bangalore and debuted as Shah Rukh Khan’s heroine in “Om Shanti Om”. Undoubtedly among the top actresses in Hindi films, it is Deepika Padukone who is now carrying forward the bright torch of tradition as she covers new ground and wins over hearts as a Bollywood diva. n

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feature

A WORTHY

JOB RESERVATION Social Entrepreneur and Cosmic Artist Preeti Arora Thaker helps acid attack survivors get a new lease of life

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T

his September, a landmark judgement was passed by a Bombay court wherein 25 year old Ankur Pawar was sentenced to death for throwing acid on a 23 year old nurse, who had rejected his marriage proposal three years ago. The victim had succumbed to injuries and the stringent punishment imparted to the perpetrator was appreciated by many. One among them was Social Entrepreneur and Cosmic artist, Preeti Thaker Arora.

Touched by the incident, Preeti decided to provide help in the form of job opportunities to acid attack survivors. Arora is the co-founder of a call centre, SWOT Consultancy services where she subsequently reserved 20 vacancies for acid attack survivors and physically challenged people. “I have been reading in the newspapers about many such incidents where acid attack survivors are not given jobs or accepted positively by the society. Girls are very particular about their looks; even small pimple upsets many of us, imagine the plight of these girls who have a deformed face. We need to support and help them as they are no different from the rest of us,” she says.

Many acid attack survivors are abandoned by their families and some are rejected at job interviews for their appearance. Shaboo is one such acid attack survivor who was disowned by her family. She also lost her job because some of her colleagues found it difficult to accept her, in spite of her being well qualified. She is now working with SWOT Consultancy services who are waiting for more such survivors to approach the consultancy and fill the vacancies available.

This is not enough, however. The problem lies with how society looks at the victims. Many survivors do not want to step out of their houses fearing backlash or even worse. “Acid attack survivors don’t want to come out and work. That’s the basic difficulty.

Convincing them is quite tough.

We do make special arrangements such as not sending them for field work. Also we make sure that they

get day off for health check-ups or any doctor visit.

These are some liberties which we provide them with.”

Preeti elaborates when asked about the challenges faced by her.

Employees who are not victims of acid attacks haven’t really been told on how to behave with those who are.

“I have not briefed them till now. Luckily, employees at SWOT are very understanding, and I have never felt the need to check them. In fact people are quite cooperative.” says Preeti on being asked if she has briefed her employees beforehand on correct behaviour.

Shaboo meanwhile is very excited and happy about the job, “I like working over here, there is no discrimination by my colleagues. They chat with me, share their tiffin and some also invite me home to meet their families.

The job opportunity given by Preeti Arora has given me a new lease of life. Earlier I was very depressed and my roommate was looking after all my expenses. But this opportunity is a blessing for me,” she says.

A report collated by The Acid Survivors Foundation India (ASFI) indicates a clear growth in the number of acid attacks in the last few years, from 80 victims in 2010 to 122 incidents in 2013. The Stop Acid Attacks campaign claims there have been 386 cases in the period 2013 to 2014. “I wish to end the plight of acid attack survivors and empower them. With the increase in the number of acid attack incidents, it is essential to not just educate the society and give severe punishment to the accused but also ensure that the survivors continue to live with respect and dignity,” adds Arora who has been appealing to all through social networking sites to help pass on her message of job opportunities available for physically handicapped, especially acid attack survivors.

“We do not believe in capital punishment.

We do not ask for acid attacks in retaliation. All that we are asking for is a change in the mentality of people. It is our responsibility to rehabilitate acid attack survivors,” exhorts the good samaritan, who also uses 50% of the proceeds from her cosmic paintings towards the education of girls. n

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advertorial

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Feelings

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guest column

Dr Anjali Chhabria is the founder of Mindtemple and has been a practicing consultant and psychiatrist for the past 20 years. A visiting lecturer at many prestigious Mumbai institutes, her new book, ‘Death Is Not The Answer’ is an attempt to de-stigmatise suicide.

WHEN WOMEN BECOME ‘PACKAGE DEALS’ Renowned psychiatrist, Dr Anjali Chhabria writes about the common causes of depression, especially among Indian women and the worrying circumstances that make them more prone to the condition.

W

hen we talk about women, we immediately think of the various roles that a woman fits into and whether it’s the mother or the wife, daughter or sister, teacher or an actress, each one comes with its own responsibilities and a very complicated, tailor made profile that cannot be replaced by any man. For instance, notions such as a mother’s instincts, a wife’s strong support, a daughter’s pride and even the beauty of an actress are all derived from their huge contributions in that particular role. Lately the woman’s natural ability to multitask is also being much talked about, while little attention is paid to the great effort it actually takes to juggle several roles at the same time.

Being a woman means being a ‘package deal’, someone who delivers each time to the numerous demands in every aspect of her life. A busy CEO of a company must still be the nurturing mother at home and a wife who runs the house.

In addition to all these tasks that women are responsible for there are other expectations such as looking pretty and slim at all times, all thanks to our TV soaps in which women look their best 24/7, even at bedtime! Things which the world takes for granted - keeping one’s weight and figure

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in check, maintaining the painted nails, hair color and good skin, all require spending money. And for that too women are willing to pitch in, as more and more begin to take the financial responsibility of the house, contributing their share alongside the husband or the father. But the conventional role of the woman as a homemaker hasn’t changed yet. Most men and even women will agree that the smooth running of the house is the woman’s primary duty, while working is a choice that is secondary. It’s a vicious cycle that today’s women are caught up in, which further stretches their ability to juggle myriad responsibilities. With this foot in the mouth scenario it is inevitable that women these days are stressed and find themselves on the edge at all times.

We experience many stressors in our daily life which have varying effects on us. When a stressor persists over a long period of time, it may start wearing down the individual. This may cause the individual to feel sad and low. When such feelings of being low are constant, the person may start suffering from depression.

Women are twice as likely to get depressed as men. According to the World Health Organization,

India is one of the most depressed countries in the world with a whopping 36% of Indians likely to suffer from major depression at some point in their lives. This alarming rate is unsurprising, especially for women, because of the stereotypical societal boundaries that she is expected to adhere to. There are instances that we all are aware of where a woman cannot delegate her household duties to anyone, even if she is working. The duties have to be fulfilled by her regardless of the pressure that she has in her professional life. Moreover, there is a certain deadline in terms of age given by the society regarding her marriage, for her to have children and so on. So we can say that there is no major life decision that a woman can choose to take on her own. These additional stressors ultimately lead them to fall into depression. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), 350 million people worldwide suffer from depression.

Approximately one in ten women experience symptoms of depression in the weeks after having a baby.

Some experts believe that changes in hormone levels due to onset of menstrual cycle, pregnancy, menopause or miscarriage can cause depression in women. Postpartum depression can occur in the weeks before or after pregnancy which may be due to a combination of genetic, hormonal and environmental factors like lack of sleep, exhaustion after childbirth and adjustment to becoming a parent. Premenstrual dysphoric disorder or PMDD is a severe syndrome marked especially by depression, anxiety, and mood swings that occurs the week before menstruation and may interfere with normal functioning. Women juggling work with raising kids and women who are single parents suffer more stress that may trigger symptoms of depression. The family here plays an important role in terms of support and caregiving. Discord in the family or repetitive fights in relationships may cause depression.

Depression may cause crying, loss of interest in pleasurable activities, excessive sleep or insomnia and increase or decrease in appetite and weight.

Depression can significantly affect work where there may be a decline in productivity. In terms of family life, depression may cause the individual to withdraw from parents, spouse, children which will also affect those members. Severe depression may also lead to suicidal thoughts and the individual may eventually attempt suicide if not treated timely. When a mother suffers from postpartum depression, the child’s life is also at risk as the depressed mother may have trouble bonding with and enjoying her baby.

Depression can be treated through antidepressants and psychological counseling. Seasonal Affective Depression can be treated through light therapy.

Another method is Repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (rTMS) where the mood is regulated through magnetic pulses that stimulate certain brain areas. Exercise and good eating habits can also help combat depression.

In addition to this, women need to learn to be assertive, and to say “No” if they feel overburdened.

If there is something that is bothering them, they must be encouraged to speak about it and not become victims by suppressing it. Pet therapy which involves interacting and playing with pets has shown to help bring about positive changes in a person’s depressed mood. One of the most important methods to help a depressed individual is social support and allowing them to spend time doing things for themselves. Support from friends and family can significantly help the individual battle depression and bounce back to a positive and happy life. n

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The Arts

Pushpamala N

‘Being Bold For Change’

Women have always been favourite subjects for artists with their naturally aesthetic form.

Heeral Trivedi goes beyond the skin-deep portrayal of women and talks about women artists who have been bold in their Art 48 | Feelings

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Nilima Sheikh

S

ince ancient times women in India were and continue to be involved in the process of art making, whether they were the religious wall paintings of Rajasthan, or the beautifully composed Madhubani paintings of Bihar, or even the minutely crafted embroideries of Kutch. However, art was considered less of a vocation and more as a form of worship or storytelling and the artist mostly always remained anonymous.

Then there was a time when the women of India were glorified as homemakers, nurturers, a wives, mothers and at times lovers. Bowing to the dictates of a predominantly patriarchal community, art in India often mirrored this domestic domain of women in the paintings.

Whether on the walls of Ajanta or the temples of Khajuraho, feminine beauty has been accentuated

through broad hips and voluptuous curves, always stressing on the female fertility aspect. The woman was later depicted in her divine aspect by Raja Ravi Verma at the turn of the last century and we had pictures of goddesses of wisdom, learning and wealth.

The first woman artist from India’s pre-independence era who rose to fame was Amrita Sher-Gil. She became responsible for influencing an entire generation of painters. Born in Budapest in 1931, to a Punjabi-Sikh father and a Hungarian mother, her work was inspired by the European style of oil painting which she learnt during her education and residency in Paris.

While her early works primarily were self portraits depicted with the most intriguing intensity, it was on her return to India that her female subjectivity began to reflect the culture, despair and the socio-economic conditions of Indian villages. She now incorporated

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The Arts

Navjot Altaf

Navjot Altaf

traditional Indian styles in painting with vivid use of colours. She died at a tender age of 28. Her paintings soon gained wide recognition and she is undoubtedly known as the most famous Indian woman artist of the last century.

The emergence of women as fine artists in India only became prominent after independence. It is particularly after the 1970’s that many women artists began to formulate specifically feminist work with a commitment to radical social change regarding the way in which women’s experiences have been suppressed. It also reflected women’s political and social consciousness.

Feminist artists in many countries shared similar concerns, and feminism developed as an international movement with local economic and ideological factors that shaped its expression in different ways.

We have heard voices of women from all walks of life calling for social change but there are also those voices which are just seen, not heard. Many Indian women artists have expressed their concern from time to time on issues like female infanticide, sexual assaults, and gender equality in education through their work.

Some artists like Nalini Malani, Rekha Rodwittya, Navjot Altaf, Shakuntala Kulkarni etc. have been political, others have embraced philosophical or theoretical models like Nasreen Mohmmedi and still others have worked intuitively using indigenous

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Pushpamala N

traditions such as Nilima Sheikh, Madhvi Parekh.

A number of women artists have emerged at the onset of this century too, who address similar concerns but in a completely different language that is influenced by new media and mass communication like Sonia Khurana, Reena Saini Kallat to name a few.

We live in the post- modernist period in art which takes imagery from existing representations rather than inventing new styles, so mass media or popular culture becomes the main source to draw upon. And that inevitably draws attention to the ways that sexual and cultural differences are produced and reinforced in these images.

Painters have repeatedly portrayed the female body as a site for violence, deformation and a sensuous experience of love and desire. Above all the body has become the object of male “gaze” and a fertility symbol in the hands of artists (Gogi Saroj Pal, Anupam Sud). The motif of the “self” is often transferred on the imagery to offer a live subjectivity, which gathers energy in the very act of opening up its vulnerabilities to the viewer, and to the painter herself.

Several artists have also drawn on the tribal, folk and traditional arts, suggesting a significant relationship between their art and that of the unclaimed artisans.

When artists bring to attention the rural women’s craft

Amrita Sher-Gil

of embroidery and appliqué Aparna Caur , Arpita Singh), it is a plea to recognize this special talent of women and raise it to the status of art. There are also those who have worked with traditional mediums in a contemporary language, translating folk and traditional arts into a modern context.

was associated with the national movement in the picture of Bharat Mata, painted in this avatar by Rabindranath Tagore and later Amrita Sher-Gil. Recognized here as a fountain of strength, knowledge, peace, as well as that of religious spirituality, women’s status in art was thus revised once again.

‘Life imitates Art far more than Art imitates Life.’

Apart form that, women artists have embraced a wide range of media from photography, abreaction, collage and graphics to constructed sculptures, installations and public art. Collaboration with other artists and socially conscious systems provide a new public platform for a collective expression of like-minded people.

Contemporary art by these women artists compels us to think and to react to the evils of our society, subtly prompting us to correct our ethical principles, cultural practices and societal behaviour. Navjot Altaf has effectively expressed her thoughts in sculptural works like Pillani’s daughters, while Pushpamala N. has portrayed various roles and moods of women in photographs for which she has dramatically posed herself, dressed in different attires.

At the dawn of the modern era, we saw the Indian woman resurrected to a different position when she

As the emphasis moved towards the individuality of artistic expression, so did the changing image of the female figure reflect the social condition and the demands of modern life.

We just celebrated yet another International Women’s Day on 8th March. In fact a whole century has gone by celebrating this, yet we are still struggling to cope with basics like women’s safety, equality and education.

Oscar Wilde said, ‘Life imitates Art far more than Art imitates Life.’ If that be true then artists, especially women need to see their art not just for its own sake but also as a personal social responsibility. To quote the slogan for Women’s Day this year, there is need to be “Be bold for change!”

But are we ready to make that move with integrity and conviction? n

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Women’s Day Talk

Dr. Niti Chopra is Associate Professor, Faculty of Journalism and Communication, Maharaja Sayajirao University of Baroda, Vadodara, India

HER GENEROSITY

OF SPIRIT

Dr Niti Chopra touches upon the many facets of a woman, why healthy man-woman relationships are the need of the hour and the importance of Women’s Day

A

s a teacher of Communication who conducts foundation language courses, my favourite game to conduct in class is “Word Association”. I usually keep the proceeds confined to the context of media and its related jargon. As I write this piece though, I wonder what words or qualifying ideas, concepts, meanings and expressions would come up in response to the words “woman” or “womankind”! Love, warmth, care, nurture, nobility, nerve, patience, empowerment; but also hate, subjugation, violence, belittlement, abuse, atrocity, torture and disempowerment!

A woman embodies the essence of the highest of all human and cultural values, as empathy and compassion are deeply ingrained in her very being.

Given the continuum of challenges on every front, for her to keep these ideals intact is certainly not easy! More often than not, it is observed that the more sophistication and dignity she maintains in her response to a difficult or unfair situation, the more it is read as a flaw or weakness, and very unfortunately so. However, every woman is blessed

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with ingenuity and inventiveness. And it is these that help her navigate the trying times. Borrowing an idiom to define the contrast between her actual situation during such times and corresponding mental state, ‘A woman chooses to remain bathed in bright yellow sun-shine rather than get wrapped in dull grey moon-dust…’

Of course, this is not about women versus men.

A man and a woman charmingly complement each other. Besides, one should never undermine the complexities of the roles and responsibilities which men too, quietly and bravely share and shoulder in their life time. Both the sexes could have their limitations or strengths for that matter - of exposure, articulation, intellect, behaviour, and temperament. But it is in cases of brazen parochialism and unabashed sense of singular entitlement to ‘male’ privileges that remedial interventions are most needed. Having unreasonable expectations and demands, unrelenting condescension, and inflicting mental, emotional, and physical hurt also need therapeutic attention.

A woman chooses to remain bathed in bright yellow sunshine rather than get wrapped in dull grey moon-dust….

The reasons of abusive behaviour could range from frustration due to unresolved personal issues or unaddressed childhood or other trauma, a notion of legitimacy derived from compliant silence within the family leading to lack of accountability, of nurturing ideas of rigid gender roles owing to little or no introduction to a sharing of household and other responsibilities, feelings of jealousy and a compelling need to control, or even perhaps, a plain lack of self-esteem or an undiagnosed psychological disorder.

Men and women can both seek help in such cases.

Individually, together, or collectively as a family or group of confidantes or well-wishers. Professional psychiatrists, counsellors, Government and Nongovernment agencies, helplines, real and online support groups, and even legal experts are all there to help reestablish the mutual respect, active communication, and mature handling of emotions. Cultivating an attitude of nonviolence, acknowledging the woman’s contribution, respecting her, and making an honest attempt to

change and become a better person are things more easily talked about than actually done. Even so, it is better to keep the faith than lose hope.

Indeed, many dents need to be evened out, even in today’s seemingly progressive times.

There really ought to be no excuses any more for exploitation and fear in what should ideally be a most accommodating and beautiful relationship – that between man and woman.

Should Women’s Day be celebrated, I am sometimes asked, especially each year as the International Women’s Day on March 8, approaches. My reply would be a resounding and emphatic “Yes”! As a distinctive reinforcement to the persistent courage of countless women across the world who overcome daunting odds and engage meaningfully with their families, peers, colleagues, friends, communities and the society at large - a day to commemorate and celebrate every woman’s generosity of spirit, is indeed very necessary and well worth it! n

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Feature

Literary Jamborees: Because They’re Worth It! Palak Shah writes about the sudden spurt of Literary Festivals in the country (there are now 70 such) and what makes them tick

N

ot every day does one see thousands of local and international crowds swarming the tiny streets of pink city, Jaipur, even though it is a hot destination on the tourist circuit.

But the 5 days of the Jaipur Literature Festival are an exception. People from all walks of life having any noteworthy literary interest gather to celebrate all things

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cerebral. Bookworms actually get to see and hear authors who they otherwise only see on book jackets. With erudite discussions on whatever be the current trends, lively question and answer sessions and of course the prospect of meeting other book lovers, this ten year old festival has grown beyond imagination. Come January and the venue, the great Diggi palace in the city centre

transforms into a colorful façade with myriad creative elements, much like a great Indian ‘mela’. The festival began in 2006 with just 100 attendees. By 2010 the number had grown to 30,000 with the show becoming much bigger and more pompous. In the wake of all literary events, the Jaipur Literature Festival is now the largest free literary event in the world!

Following the growing popularity of this event, many other literary festivals came to life in the interim.

Apeejay Kolkata Literature Festival, Hyderabad Literary Festival, Tata Literature Live, Times Literary Carnival are just some which are making a mark in literary circles.

In fact, there is not one or two but a bunch of seventy literary events that now take place in India every year!

Does India really need so many events like this? Who benefits from them and what is the purpose of organizing them?

Acting as a Bridge From small hilly towns of the north to beach destinations of the south, you can find the trend catching up fast.

Now almost every state has their own literary festival which matches with their culture and heritage, and this in spite of the fact that India does not have a huge reading community. When Vivek Kaul, author of “Easy Money” said that “From books to kanda-batata (onion and potatoes), goods sales are moving online in India,” he brought home a valid point. Buying and even reading books has been digitized. So where do the lit fests fit in? But then these festivals are not for the trade and do not guarantee an upsurge in the sales of the books of any author addressing the event. What the author does get however is the chance to meet his audience and hear their feedback. The writers’ ‘breed’ is known to keep to themselves usually, so for the otherwise reserved lot, this is a simple, ideal route to grab eyeballs and engage with their market – an aspect that cannot be ignored anymore in any field!

On Common Ground Literature festivals are not only for the authors or the artists who share the dais; it is a win-win situation for the attendees too. Rekha Adhikari, who is an aspiring author, attended the famous literature festival held in Mumbai by the Times Group. “The world of writing is as difficult as it is easy. Events like these help one to understand the

industry and can make some valuable contacts”, says the newbie writer. Veteran journalist, Awanthi Vardaraj who is columnist with various national and international publications feels such festivals are a happy place, ‘’I like literary festivals because every inch there is filled with readers and writers. I mean they are my tribe, you know? “. The youngsters too feel the magnetic allure of these events which play host to likes of the Dalai Lama, Shashi Tharoor, Jeffery Archer, Jhumpa Lahiri and many others. Neha Garg, a second year art student from Mumbai says, “It is just wonderful to meet whoever wrote your favourite book and perhaps even changed your life”.

Come January and the venue, the great Diggi palace in the city centre transforms into a colorful façade with myriad creative elements, much like a great Indian ‘mela’. ” Small Is Big It is not that a big event is always successful or that events like these work only in big cities. Many small towns too are trying to bring in a slice of culture by organizing such events. With not many options to explore or experience Literature in India except visit bookshops, lit fests fill the gap in more ways than one. The latest to jump on the bandwagon is Vadodara, the banyan city of Gujarat. It recently concluded its own small literature festival spanning 3 days with the likes of Rishi Kapoor (who recently published his autobiography) and writerphilosopher, Devdutt Pattnaik as the main draws. Come

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Feature

April and Patna will witness the world’s first gender based literary festival. With so much hype how can regional literature be left behind? Two festivals that hope to encourage regional writers and delight its readers are being planned in Mumbai this year.

Adding to the list of festivals is a small but extremely popular heritage festival called the Casa De Moeda in Goa which has been running successfully for the past 5 years. The founder of this festival and wellknown freelance journalist, Chryselle D’Silva Dias tells the unique story of how the festival began, “Our house was the Royal Mint of Goa from 1834-1842. It has a fascinating history with records of it also being the Portuguese and British Telegraph Office and the Treasury, among other things. We have also had an illustrious list of people who have lived in the building, from my husband’s family, including the first Goan doctor to be designated as ‘General’ by the Portuguese government. In 2009 it was 175 years since the house was used as the Mint of Goa so we decided to celebrate it with a 3 day festival. It was such a hit with locals and visitors that we have had four more editions since. It is an unusual heritage festival because unlike other similar events, this one is held in a private home with the family still very much in residence during the festival. “ Unlike big lit fests this one prefers to remain small and niche. For others of the same ilk, it is sometimes the location which may prevent it from becoming a full fledged event, and of course the funding, which remains a perennial issue as it is hard to recover costs from such events.

The question still persists as to whether we require so many festivals in India. Well, as long as it serves the purpose of those who organize them and those who attend, they offer a welcome way of catching up with one’s literary and cultural interests in a charged atmosphere, as compared to mundane armchair reading.

As septuagenarian, Usha Chadha who is a regular at the Jaipur lit fest puts it, “The lit fest is always very stimulating. This year I attended a variety of sessions ranging from the Vedas, Puranas to travel and fiction.

There is so much that it is hard to choose. Despite the crowds which are difficult to handle, I find it worth the stress.” n

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made in india

ANCIENT FORMULAS IN A MODERN SETTING

Kaustubh Athavale writes on his visit to Vasu Healthcare, a company with a vision for Ayurveda Chikitsa

Y

oga is undoubtedly India’s best export to the world. A close second it seems is soon going to be the country’s ancient and effective healing system, Ayurveda. It may now be called an ‘alternative’ healing method but for long it used to be the only healing method in India.

After an overdose of the western system of medicine, there is a growing body of people around the world who are opting for more natural methods to prevent, cure and heal themselves of modern lifestyle diseases. Moreover, the side-effects of popping pills for short term relief

have given further credence to the long-term benefits of Indian Ayurveda which seeks to weed out the root cause of the problem. A guided factory visit to Vasu Healthcare recently opened our eyes to what exactly goes on inside a facilty that manufactures Ayurvedic products. We met Mr Vivek Dixit, the production manager at the large, 1.25 lakh sq. ft Vasu Healthcare premises at GIDC, Vadodara.

An energetic young personality he told us that there are many stories about the origin of Ayurveda but the most common is that of Dhanvantri, considered to be the physician of the Gods and the God of Ayurveda. He is said to have emerged during the churning of the ocean by

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made in india

Devtas and Asuras (Gods and Demons).

Before entering the production plant, my colleague Darshan Vinayaka and I were provided aprons, a cap and shoe covers to prevent any microbial contamination. The first sight that greeted us was a huge unit of steel vessels, or modern cauldrons with a capacity of 20-25,000 thousand litres! They were filled with coconut and sesame oils, the former’s container jacketed with a heavy layer of the metal to keep the coconut oil in liquid state during the cold winter months. When it’s too cold and this doesn’t work we have to turn on the heating plant to maintain the temperature,” elaborated Mr. Dixit On the way towards the oil filtration plant on another floor, we passed a boiler plant where a 1.5 tonne boiler supplies 1500 kg steam per hour to the production house to help make some specific products. Next we saw where all the final products with their batch numbers are carefully stored. A hi tech locking system was in place for quality control. In case of any problem all that has to be done is match the problem product with its batch number and figure out what went wrong. Vasu believes in being transparent with the customer and in ‘no excuses’ when it comes to maintaining quality standards.

A similarly rigorous procedure is followed to test the raw material before it reaches the manufacturing unit. An inhouse lab and the quality assurance team work together to certify the material being used before it finds its way into bottles and tubes.

We also noticed the raw oils getting processed in different tanks that had supply lines to the filling section of the facility. From the processing and filling to the sealing and packaging, the material is very rarely touched by hand (only when there may be a technical problem) and basically goes through a fully automated, state of the art system. The next stop for us was the manufacturing unit of various creams, shampoo and oils.

The most popular products of Vasu include Trichup Hair Solutions (oils, shampoos etc) and their medicine for prostate. The sans SLES shampoo of Vasu is exported to nearly 35 countries. “Vasu’s shampoo is one of the few in the market that is ALS based which makes it totally safe for the skin,” explained Mr Dixit.” “Though we are already exporting to many countries, especially in the MENA region, we are now aiming to strengthen our

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“Vasu’s shampoo is one of the few in the market that is ALS based which makes it totally safe for the skin ” place in the CIS countries, especially Russia,” he added about Vasu’s future goals.

Apart from these, there are personal care products that come under the VASU-UVA range. These include herbal face wash, cream, scrub and face pack.

The last segment of the unit is where the wholesale packing takes place. The cartons were being sealed with air-tight plastic covers so that they stay safe from environmental changes whilst in transit, especially on sea.

Vasu’s employees who are about 70 in number are better known as ‘Vasudhars’, a name that brings them all together in their endeavor to provide quality cosmetics and health products to their users.

approved after examination by qualified doctors who then go on to prescribe them to their patients.

“That doctors who have studied the western system of medicine are prescribing our products is a big revolution in itself in the healthcare sector,” says a proud Mr. Dixit.

The Health Research Centre validates our products officially and is surely a supporting factor for Vasu’s success,” he adds. n

The company with a capital value of 30-35 crores produces about 20,000 bottles of shampoo and 50,000 bottles of oil daily. Add to that 10,000 jars of cream and 110 tubes of ointment per minute, and one realizes how smoothly an operation of this magnitude is running.

Vasu Research Centre The Research Centre of Vasu works in closely with Government approved hospitals. Vasu products are

Mr. Hari B Patel, Founder of VASU HEALTHCARE

foreign territories.

VASU HEALTHCARE was founded in the 1980’s by Mr. Hari B Patel, who believed in the simple life and had a vision to serve the community at large. The venture began with a small start up on rented premises. Mr. Hari had completed his B.Sc. and a Diploma in Cosmetics and then worked as a representative in Ban Labs, his uncle Dr. Dahya Patel’s company. Armed with this experience and a strong will to establish his own set-up, he started first by manufacturing some capsules. Only gradually, with research on other products did Vasu diversify it portfolio.

The TRICHUP range

Speaking about Future of India, Mr. Hari Patel is positive that the present government’s progressive mindset is for the good, “ Most Indians remain orthodox in their views and that is why we are still struggling. At the same time our country has the benefit of a large population – skilled and unskilled.

China may have the production capacity but quality remains is a question for Chinese products.

Our country has the potential to control both the quality and the quantity of products,” he says with foresightedly.

The secret to success he says is threefold, “Patience, a risktaking ability and self-confidence can get you success in not only business but all aspects of life.”

hit the market in the 1990s and the amazing response prompted them to start exporting in 1995.

This was the first product which gave Vasu an identity in the Ayurveda market. Since that day, Vasu has expanded its reach to ASEAN countries, North Africa and European countries. In most of these places the concept of Ayurveda was totally new.

The idea that one can remove disease with herbal and mineral based products was unusual to say the least. But Mr Patel’s sharp business acumen and sheer determination helped Vasu get off the ground and find a foothold in these

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Viewpoint

WOMEN ON TOP With power comes responsibility and a lot more, especially if you’re a woman! What exactly does it take to survive on top?

Aman Chhabra finds out‌

Meenakshi Rao is the Editor of The Sunday Pioneer, New Delhi

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Rita Wittke is Principal, Little Kingdom School, Kanpur

March 2017

Kalpa Racch is an entrepreneur who has co-founded three consultancies based in Vadodara

Swati Bedekar is a Social entrepreneur and a Science Communicator

Shruti Chaturvedi is CEO of Chaipaani, a media sharing platform in Gurgaon

Love ‘em, hate ‘em, but ignore them you simply can’t.

Everyone has an opinion on theirs and why not. They dictate what we must do for the better part of our days.

Yes, we’re talking about your boss! On account of Women’s Day, five women at the helm took out time to provide us with some interesting insights from their vantage points.

call me sahib (sir), refusing to call me “ben”. They felt a ‘ben’ can’t be moving around in their world and calling the shots. We still remember it and have a good laugh.

Are there any specific challenges you face while managing your team, simply because you are a woman?

Meenakshi Rao: Women team members are more argumentative, sometimes even unreasonable perhaps because they are of the same gender as me. My male colleagues not just respect me but also do the work as per instructions. Perhaps because they do not want to be at the receiving end of a woman, after all it is still a male society!

Meenakshi Rao: Not at all. In fact they take me more seriously because I am one.

Rita Wittke: Trying to balance business and family, especially motherhood, I have learnt and experienced that it leads to some shortcomings on both ends, eg. a trip with my school children had to be forfeited for a school orientation of one of my kids. The heavens don’t fall though, and you learn to prioritise.

Yes I am treated a little differently being a woman but I have stopped worrying. The bottom line is if you are successful then no one cares whether you are a man or a woman.

I have learnt that I don’t have to think like a man.

Women have a different approach. BE YOURSELF! Kalpa Racch: When I started my career, more than two decades ago, the gender difference was more apparent. Men were a little hesitant to report to a woman, women probably were not happy to see another woman succeeding. I remember one of the men in my team taking frequent and long smoking breaks every hour. After repeated warnings, when I almost confronted him, he told me he could not stand a woman being his boss! Anyway, over time, things changed between us and he became one of my trusted and committed team members.

Swati Bedekar: Initially I did see some problems while leading a team that included men but gradually some maturity has set in. Many times we work in areas or have to deal with departments where men are predominant. I recall an incident where I was working in Kutch, a few years back. A woman in charge was such an uncommon sight in the village, that everyone used to

Do you feel that the male and female members of your team react differently to your decisions or orders?

Kalpa Racch: More often than not, men and women respond differently to situations. It is the outcome of age old social conditioning. Instead of trying to fight this reality, it is better to understand the social environment and accordingly adjust one’s communication. For instance, at an office gathering, I talk to the women team members about their families and kids. With men, I don’t ask such personal questions. I try to figure out their hobbies and then lead the conversation in that direction.

“I talk to the women team members about their families and kids. With men, I don’t ask such personal questions. ” Do you think that a female boss has certain advantages/disadvantages over a male one?

Meenakshi Rao: If you know your job, if you can command respect, if they can look up to you, there is never a problem. As for disadvantages, you always have to work that much harder to prove your professional worth to them, simply put, for them to take you seriously. I see no specific advantages.

Rita Wittke: A woman has both advantages and

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Viewpoint

disadvantages in a leadership position. Her advantages over a male counterpart are: Her ability to multitask.

She can prioritise issues and manage things at work with the same dedication as home, making things function as smooth as clockwork. Also women are generally more empathetic and better communicators as a result of which they build effective relationships with colleagues, subordinates and even top management.

On the other hand there are a number of challenges for a woman who leads: She has to work harder for recognition and may tend to overwork just for a ‘thumbs up’.

A woman at work invariably faces unfair associations between her appearance and work performance. She may constantly feel under scrutiny for things unrelated to her intelligence and work performance.

Kalpa Racch: There is a glass ceiling but more and more women have broken it, paving the way for future generations. In today’s environment, at least in the urban areas, I don’t feel there are any special advantages or disadvantages based on gender. It is all about developing a high emotional quotient and handling each issue in a mature way, rather than getting stressed and feeling overwhelmed. Things get a little difficult for women when they have to raise a family alongside their career.

But it depends on how they plan this phase. In fact in a country like India, one is more likely to get a good support system.

Swati Bedekar: I feel quite happy being a woman leader in man’s world. In my field, i.e. an NGO, being a female leader is advantageous as she is looked upon as a mother figure, an epitome of selfless love and care.

Shruti Chatuvedi: I don’t believe that a particular gender has an advantage over the other. Only a better skilled boss has an advantage over a lesser skilled boss.

What would you say about the scenario of women bosses/managers/leaders/CEOs in India?

Meenakshi Rao: Though women are reaching up there, there’s always that glass ceiling they need to breach. It’s the main hurdle for all women bosses and

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CEOs. Having said that, it is tough to stay on top unless you are exceptionally good. The number of women bosses has increased over the years and the upward trend continues. That’s why you have women in all sorts of unheard of posts. There’s a woman commando trainer for the Forces, another woman is handling the naxalite intensive Chhattisgarh region as an IPS officer, yet another one has long been heading a bank, a multinational company etc. So the horizons are clearing for women at the helm.

Rita Wittke: Women enjoy leadership positions under two distinct circumstances in India. The first is in the corporate sector where they face a thick glass ceiling and only a handful emerge on the other side. It is changing gradually though as more women are grabbing opportunities and challenging stereotypes. This is most evident in the banking sector as most of the top positions in the leading banks in our country are enjoyed by women. The second lot are women entrepreneurs who are cropping up in numbers across the country. With the advent of technology, even small businesses from home are being run successfully by women. Here they are their own bosses.

“I recall a study by Koshal that said that for every 100 men, there are only two women in administrative and managerial positions in India. ” Shruti Chatuvedi: I recall a study by Koshal that said that for every 100 men, there are only two women in administrative and managerial positions in India. CII’s recent report too indicated that while there are only 16% women in junior management and 4% in senior, only 1% make up organisational leaders. I stand completely against playing the ‘woman card’ and believe that more women should come forward to equip themselves at par with their male counterparts and break the so-called ‘glass ceiling’. n

BODY AND SOUL

Dr Devashish Palkar is currently training at Shree Krishna Hospital and Research centre, Karamsad, Gujarat. Passionate about writing and storytelling, he believes that, “Treating a patient is just a more professional and sophisticated form of storytelling!”

THE WORLD THROUGH

HIS EYES

Dr. Devashish Palkar wonders at our labels of what is ‘normal’ and what it is not while conducting a medical camp for the differently abled

T

he medical internship is at once the most exciting and yet the most frustrating experience in the life of a young doctor exciting because there is a positive feeling of already having become a doctor and frustrating because it is far from rewarding. But therein is the catch for it’s not a job, but an internship! There are days when just a simple dressing helps heal a patient’s wound and the intern feels satisfied.

And then there are testing times as well when one wants to do so much more but feels helpless since there are not many opportunities available to the junior most in the hierarchy of medical practitioners.

One of the most worthwhile experiences of the internship is the peripheral posting which provides an opportunity for field work and a means to be of service to the community. While the seniors are too busy in the hospitals, it’s the interns and the junior resident doctors who are entrusted the job of conducting camps and identifying patients in need of medical care in these far flung areas!

For my internship rotation in Ophthalmology, I was part of a health check up camp this October. A school was selected in one of the nearby villages

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and my job was to test the children for visual acuity or to assess if any child had any refractive errors and ask him/her to come to our hospital for a follow up if needed. We were provided with an English version of Snellen’s chart, the one most commonly used for testing vision. If you have ever been for an eye check up, you would know what I am talking of. The patient is asked to read out what is written on the chart which is usually placed at a distance of 6 metres. It consists of a sequence of letters, numbers or figures depending on the patient’s intellectual level and language preferences. The chart worked quite well for the first four days. But on the fifth day, something unexpected happened. To my utter surprise, the school which had been selected for the fifth day was a special school or a school for the differently abled.

An autistic kid came up and my friend and I had to assess his vision. Since we only had the letter based Snellen’s chart (that too an English one!), we couldn’t diagnose if he had any refractive errors. Numbers and letters didn’t make much sense to him.

I felt irritated since the management team delegated with the work of conducting such camps could have been more painstaking in their approach and could have at least informed us what sort of a school it was going to be, so that we could have been better prepared.

Unsure of what we should do, we decided to continue with the task at hand using a bit of ‘jugaad’. We devised a makeshift Snellen’s chart with circles of varying sizes instead of letters and asked them to count the number of circles.

Though it was a spur-of-the-moment devised technique, we were able to diagnose a few kids who had refractive errors with its help. For the majority though, even figures made no sense or rather their imaginations were all too powerful and they just laughed at our ‘jugaad’.

As we were returning, my mind went back to that autistic kid.

What use would it be to diagnose him with a refractive error just because he can’t read what

we, the ‘normal’ beings can? As a doctor, I can can improve his vision but not his imagination.

He doesn’t just see the numbers differently, he sees the world differently! And, guess what? It’s probably so much better than ours.

In his world, there is no discrimination whatsoever.

In his world, there are no soldiers and no terrorists.

In his world, India and Pakistan don’t exist, let alone fight.

In his world there is more happiness than sorrow, no worries for what is going to happen tomorrow.

Isn’t it how we are all supposed to live?

The world through his eyes is actually normal and beautiful and yet we have labeled him abnormal.

He sees the world differently and maybe that’s what we all need.

Looking through his eyes, maybe it’s we who suffer from refractive errors. Isn’t it high time we correct it? n

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The Immigrant Diary

THE KUMARS OF NORTH CAROLINA

A young couple from South India started on an adventure in 1973 that continues even today. Gita Viswanath encapsulates the story of an immigrant family in US from a time when neighbourhoods there were still warm and welcomed foreigners!

O

n the day India was celebrating its twenty fourth Republic Day, a young couple took a train from Bangalore to Bombay and from there an Air India flight to New York. Having completed his Ph.D. in biochemistry from Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore, Dr R Premakumar (Kumar) accepted a post-doctoral fellowship offer made to him

by Dr Rajagopalan at Duke University, Durham, North Carolina. Accompanying him was his wife Nirmala who was five months pregnant with their first child. The family insisted that Nirmala should accompany Kumar just so that on arrival he wouldn’t take a return flight to India!

Landing in New York on January 26, 1973 they were completely overwhelmed by the city. Luckily for them, they were received by friends who took them home for a dinner of rice and rasam! As Nirmala remembers to this day, ‘New York was like dreamland – with all the lights and traffic.’

With dreams in their eyes and a modest US $ 8000 per annum salary, Kumar and Nirmala began a new life in a small, friendly neighbourhood in Durham that was full of students and researchers from all over the world. They hired unfurnished accommodation for $115 a month in Poplar Apartments at 865, Louise Circle. While Kumar began work at the University,

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Nirmala was struggling with cooking in a place that didn’t even have ingredients in the stores for Indian cooking. A knock on the door from a friendly Indian neighbour, Veda, on the second day of their arrival was for Nirmala like manna from Heaven. Once a month a group of Indian women would prepare a list and order ingredients from either New York or Chicago till the time an Oriental store opened in close by Raleigh. While a pound of rice flour was priced at a dollar and ninety nine, the shipping cost was $5!

Their baby boy, Sanjay was born on June 2, 1973. By then the couple had even put together some money to buy Kumar’s mom a ticket to Durham to assist Nirmala with baby care. With the joy of a baby increasing

day by day, the bills were mounting too.

Fortuitously, Veda who was switching jobs suggested Nirmala take up hers. As leaving a baby at child care was an alien tradition for Indians, Kumar and Nirmala wondered how to overcome this predicament. In a casual chat with her neighbour, Volga, a dentist from Chile who could not work due to problems with certification and so on, Nirmala shared her confusion. The kindhearted Volga immediately offered to take care of Sanjay along with caring for her own son who was older than Sanjay by a few months. Nirmala insisted on paying the prevailing rate to Volga for this – a sum of 50 cents per hour.

With woefully inadequate public transport systems in the US, it became mandatory for both to learn driving and they bought their first car; a 64 Buick Special in 1974.

Nirmala began work in the Duke University Hospital after getting the requisite work permit from the International Department in the Department of Cardiology as EKG Technician. She held a post graduate degree in Geography from Madras University. The job being way different from her academic pursuits, she was trained to run the machines which were massive in those days and read the results which then were not printed instantly. Interestingly, she was also given special permission to wear a sari to work. In winters, she even managed to wear snow boots under the sari! So much for the versatility of those six yards! With woefully inadequate public transport systems in the US, it became mandatory for both to learn driving and they bought their first car; a 64 Buick Special in 1974. By 1980, they had climbed the ladder of financial success sufficiently to own two cars.

With the drying up of funds for the postdoc research,

Kumar had to move out of Duke. He managed to get a fellowship at McMaster University in Hamilton, Ontario. So the family moved to Canada in March 1977 where they stayed till January 1980. The family grew here with the birth of their second son Rajiv on August 9, 1977. Thanks to social medicine they spent all of $25 for the delivery while a whopping $3000 was spent on Sanjay in the US! History repeated itself in McMaster with regard to research funding and the Kumars returned to India in 1978. Attempts to get work at Central Food Technological Research Institute, Indian Institute of Science and some pharmaceutical companies did not bear fruit. After five months in India, the Kumars were back on a flight to Hamilton and then back in US in November 1979. Life seemed to have come full circle with Kumar back in Duke in Dr Rajagopalan’s research team and Nirmala once again in Duke University

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they lived for 21 years. A middle class neighbourhood, it was according to Nirmala ‘ideal for raising kids.’ Fond of gardening, the Kumars have always maintained a beautiful garden full of flowers and a vegetable patch as well where they even planted Gongura for their Gongura pachchadi! Even so, by now, the family had learned to enjoy different cuisines as well such as Mexican, Italian and Lebanese while remaining staunchly vegetarian. The children of course ate meat outside the home.

All along they maintained strong ties with family and friends back home with regular letter writing and occasional phone calls which were expensive. On Valentine’s Day, there was a free call facility to India and there would be long queues at the phone booths.

Children were introduced to the extended family through albums of photographs. So when they visited India Sanjay and Rajiv were already well-acquainted with large numbers of aunts, uncles and cousins.

“At 74 and 70, Kumar and Nirmala continue to be guardian angels to successive immigrants from the family.”

Hospital. Kumar got a permanent job in 1980 as a Federal employee at the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) where he also taught undergrad and graduate students. He also became an American citizen around this time. Nirmala acquired an associate degree in Computer Programming and went on to become a Data Technician in the Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics where she did follow up of cardiac patients.

She became a citizen in 1994.

From then on they were immersed in a world of childcare, juggling jobs in dual shifts so that husband and wife could use a single car, saving up for trips to India every three years and buying a home. They acquired their first home in Parkwood in 1980 where

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In mid 1990s, the boys were getting ready to fly the nest.

Sanjay went to Medical School at University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill and Rajiv went on to Law School at Emory University, Atlanta. Today, both boys are back in North Carolina for work. Rajiv says with a boyish thrill, ‘The home I bought has the same zipcode as the home I grew up in.’ Kumar retired in January 2002 and Nirmala in 2009. Sanjay is married to an American girl, Jodie Koviach and has two children, Vikram and Kira. Kumar and Nirmala now live with Sanjay’s family and revel in their role as grandparents. On being asked whether US is home or India, Kumar replies without an iota of doubt, ‘US is home because we are all here!’

Truly home is where the heart is as the cliché goes.

At 74 and 70, Kumar and Nirmala continue to be guardian angels to successive immigrants from the family. While they had to contend with a new world all by themselves way back in the 1970s, they ensure their nieces and nephews and their families are well taken care of on arrival. Thanksgiving is invariably an occasion when the entire family meets at the Kumars’ home where strong bonds are forged in their adopted homes, thousands of miles away from their country of birth. While there is no turkey on the Kumars’ table, it still has an enviable feast to offer. For turkey, the carnivores move to Sanjay’s! n

interview

GOING STRONG AT SIXTY P.K.Mahapatra, Sr. Divisional Manager (LIC), Ahmedabad talks to Jagdish Jhaveri about LIC’s accomplishments as the institution celebrates its Diamond Jubilee Year.

How was the business year 201617 for LIC? In this Diamond Jubilee Year (60 years), LIC has created history by achieving its annual Total Premium Budget in the month of February itself!

The business climate for LIC has been quite encouraging during the current year 2016-2017 and LIC has sold 1,48,78,660 policies and collected First Premium Income of Rs.31089 Crores, already which means a growth rate of 67%. At the same time, our Ahmedabad division also created history and completed its annual Total Premium Budget of 201617 on 15.12.2016 by collecting First Premium Income (FPI) of Rs.532 Crores and as on 27.02.2017, it has collected First Premium Income (FPI) of Rs.623 Crores and sold 169784 policies, showing growth a rate of 117% on the count of First Premium Income (FPI).

What are the new products introduced by LIC? Is there anything that targets the largely investment-oriented people of Gujarat?

Recently the Bima Diamond (Plan no. 841) has been introduced which is our Diamond Jubilee product. It provides risk, periodical returns and extended risk cover among other benefits to cater to the needs of our large scale investment customers.

We also have a very attractive product for those who desire regular and guaranteed life long payments i.e. our New Jeevan Akshay – VI Pension Plan. A product like Jeevan Labh provides the benefit of short term premium payment term and the period of coverage of risk is more than the premium paying term. Customers nowadays tend to choose such products.

How much has LIC collected in Single Premium Policies?

The Ahmedabad Division has collected Rs.487 Crores through sale of Single Premium Policies.

It procured Rs.398 Crores of First Premium Income (FPI) by sale of the popular Jeevan Akshay-VI in the current year.

The Life Insurance industry is now more competitive due to the entry of several national and international life insurance companies through joint ventures with Indian companies. What are your comments?

It is true that there is stiff competition prevailing in the Insurance Sector. However, LIC, through its brand image, has performed exceedingly well despite all adverse situations. LIC as a whole has a market share of 71% on the First Premium Count as on 31.01.2017, an improvement from last year.

To what extent has LIC simplified the claim settlement process?

LIC has always remained customer-friendly as far as the claim settlement process is concerned. We are the Number One Insurance Company in the world having settled more than 99% of the claims and having lowest outstanding claims ratio. We are always educating our customers through advertisements and personal contacts to update their bank details for credit of any of the pay outs with respect to their policies. During any mishaps, we also issue relaxations in settling the claims and waive many of the requirements.

What is the target of new business including the number of policies that must be sold?

The target of new business for the Current FN 2016-17 for Ahmedabad Division is 3,68,000 policies a Total First Premium Income (TFPI) of Rs.532 Crores. n

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exclusive interview

The Latest

Publishing Phenomenon (TLPP) Savi Sharma, the very young author of Everyone Has A Story (EHAS) and This Is Not Your Story (TINYS) took the country by storm as India’s first ever successful, self-published, female author. In a telephonic interview with Nandita Derashri, the girl from Surat reveals bits of her own story How and when did you start writing a book?

I was in my first year of college when I started writing a story which took almost 4 years to complete. However, I realized it wasn’t up to the mark and rejected it myself.

Then I started again with a new one which I completed in just 4-6 months and published. That became “Everyone Has A Story”.

give through my book. This ultimately is the basis of my theme, followed by the selection of characters which we can say are the backbone. To provide a suitable and exciting end to the story is of utmost importance and the most challenging task of all.

You have already written two books. How do you find your ideas?

It takes some time to decide what message I want to

Did you always aspire to be a writer?

When I was in school, I had this thought that may be one day I will have my column in a newspaper or a

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What or who inspired you to write a book?

Nothing but personal experiences.

magazine but becoming a successful author in the very first attempt was something beyond my thoughts.

Tell us something about your first book, Everyone Has A Story The book is about four different characters, namely Meera, Vivaan, Kabir and Nisha, all of whom have their own story. It’s about how they meet in a café, discuss their dreams and move towards achieving them. It’s their journey, basically.

How does it feel to be so successful in your first attempt?

I am very humble and happy. People are liking it and also getting inspired by it. It feels great to receive such an overwhelming response.

Could you describe your typical working day as a writer?

Sure. After the success of my book, days have become hectic. A typical day involves travelling, meeting and talking with readers and making them familiar with the second book, This Is Not Your Story, which is already out. Apart from this, my usual day starts with a cup of coffee, exploring and updating my blog called Life and People, followed by visiting cafes and sitting there for hours to get new ideas. Whatever I observe in the day, I finally pen down at night.

“If you actually feel what you write, then no one can stop you from creating an outstanding piece of writing.”

Who are your favorite authors?

I love reading Nicholas Spark, Paulo Coelho, Robin Sharma, Devdatta Pattanaik, Amish Tripathi, Ashwin Sanghi……it’s a long list.

You were all set to become a Chartered Accountant. Were there any challenges you faced while writing novels?

Many. Writing is complicated, it’s definitely not as easy as it may look. To express ideas effectively in words is the most challenging part. One has to be careful and maintain the element of excitement throughout the story in order to keep the reader engaged. However, I was sure that my idea would touch people.

Who is your role model?

A simple and eloquent style of writing is something that I admire and for that it has to be Paulo Coelho. He is an amazing writer.

Apart from writing, what are your other interests?

I like reading. I am a voracious reader which is what also motivates me to write well. Other than this, I like travelling, discovering new places and trying different cuisines. Last but not the least, I am a big time movie buff.

What is your message for aspiring authors?

I believe you should trust your potential and your story without getting afraid of the outcome. In addition, do not hesitate in taking initiative. If you actually feel what you write, then no one can stop you from creating an outstanding piece of writing. n

What are your future plans?

I would like to write more inspirational stories and would love to explore my potential in other genres like non-fiction, positivity, and spirituality.

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Style File

Ishika Taneja, one of the most popular make-over experts in the country talks to Jigna Dutta about what inspires her, her plan to build a beauty empire and when one should think of getting a make-over

“EVERYBODY IS BEAUTIFUL”

I

shika Taneja was recently crowned Miss India Tourism 2016-17. She is a Guinness World Record holder for the fastest 60 air brush make-ups on 60 models in 60 minutes! No two looked alike and Ishika dedicated this feat to ‘Nirbhaya’, the December 16 rape victim, whose parents were invited to receive the award. Trained by the world’s best in various makeup techniques and prosthetics, Ishika is also a trained rifle shooter.

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How did you choose this field? Do you enjoy what you do?

Ever since childhood I’ve seen my mother, the famous beauty expert, Bharti Taneja using her skills to beautify others. I saw that it not only gave people happiness once they realized how good they were looking but it also increased their confidence levels. I was quite inspired by these transformations happening in front of my eyes. My mother noticed my interest and gave me an opportunity

when I was just in class 4! I prepared the plan, including the services to be provided and the interiors of ALPS Kids parlour. I consider myself extremely lucky and blessed to have made a living out of something I love doing!

Which among the several make-up techniques do you like doing the most?

Although I enjoy doing all kinds of make-up, it’s the challenging ones that I look forward to the most. If I can make a burn victim look like a princess or a cancer patient feel beautiful then I feel like I have done something worthwhile. I like to be able to set fashion trends.

Did you plan your way in this profession? Where do you see yourself in the future?

To understand the beauty business better, I studied business at The London School of Economics. I then went to Hollywood and honed my skills by taking up the most challenging make-over tasks. Returning to India, I prepared for the Guinness record and was awarded the President’s honour after achieving what I had set out to do. Now I am in Mumbai city to build a beauty empire!

What do you think about Mumbai?

Mumbai is one of my favourite cities. There is competition here, which I thrive on. This city definitely gives lots of opportunity to those who want to move up in their careers.

When should one think of changing one’s appearance or getting a makeover?

After the age of 40, because the signs of ageing become more visible. With the skin losing its natural elasticity, the eyebrows tend to hang lower/become lighter and the eyes too start appearing smaller. To give a lift to such eyes, one should use an eye pencil to highlight the natural curve of the eyebrows and darken them if necessary. This will make the eyes look larger and younger. Instead of a liquid eyeliner, one should use a pencil one or an eyelash joiner. Just take care that the line should not be drooping but curved upwards. Using a white pencil on the waterline will also make your eyes

appear larger. Another way to feel and look younger is to use bright shades of lipstick.

Could you tell us a few simple rules about make up?

Everybody is beautiful in their own way – all that’s needed is a little analysis about what to highlight or conceal with make-up.

You donated a large amount for the welfare of rape victims. What are your views on philanthropy?

Helping those in need gives me the maximum happiness.

I visit the blind school often and spend time there.

But more than doing charity, I believe in providing opportunities. I would like to provide education to the lesser privileged so they can chart their own course in life. I would also like to do something for the senior citizens. It is our duty to hold their hands at this juncture of their lives, instead of leaving them alone.

“Everybody is beautiful in their own way – all that’s needed is a little analysis about what to highlight or conceal with make-up.”

Your favourite people in life?

Of course, my mom and dad! Seeing my mom work with so much honesty, dedication and passion has always inspired me. After I was born she was diagnosed with arthritis but that did not deter her from working as hard as before. Also, she never compromised on giving time to the family because of her work. She’s not just my mom, but also my friend and boss. From my dad I have learnt how to move to the next level in life, how to improve oneself and one’s skill set.

What is your message on Women’s Day? Recognize yourself for who you are and move ahead with that self-assurance. Everyone has something special in them and no one can take that away! n

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Fashion

An electric blue raw silk jacket style anarkali worn with a red silk lehenga, embroidered in zari with floral and bird motifs.

Fashion Designer & Stylist – Pallavi Goyal Model – Shreya Rajput Photographer –Sangeet Kaushik Make up & Hair- Abhay Sinha & Praveen Jewellery- Pallavi Goyal Location-Studio Swanling Price: 41,500

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MajesticOpulence Haute Couture for the Princess in you...

by Pooja Goyal

A hand embroidered Tussar jacket with a Du Pont silk skirt Fashion Designer & Stylist – Pallavi Goyal Model – Priyanka Karunakaran Photographer –S angeet Kaushik Make up & Hair - Khaliq & Saloni Jewellery - Pallavi Goyal Location -Studio Swanling Price: 26,000

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Fashion

LETS UP THE OOMPH FACTOR Pale Iris DuPont Silk bordello bodice and georgette floor length embroidered skirt with metal tubes and beads Price: 21,500 Fashion Designer & Stylist – Pallavi Goyal Model – Bhairavi Goswami Photographer – Sangeet Kaushik Make up & Hair - Rukhsar Jewellery - Pallavi Goyal Location - Studio Swanling

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Marsala silk jacket embroidered with zari and sequins teamed with crinkle satin palazzos Fashion Designer & Stylist – Pallavi Goyal Model – Bhairavi Goswami Photographer – Sangeet Kaushik Make up & Hair - Rukhsar Jewellery - Pallavi Goyal Location - Studio Swanling Price: 23,500

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Trendspotting

ADDING

SOME PUNCH An explosion of prints in the urban man’s closet means he should know how to wear them. Mehul Suthar shares a few sartorial tips

A

style statement is your personal statement defined by your ensemble and how you put it all together. For while fashion can be bought off the shelves, style must be cultivated gradually and thoughtfully.

As summer arrives and winter departs, men often subconsciously retreat to light monochromes from the dark ones they wore during the chilly days. This predictable trend though is slowly being chipped away over the last couple of years with colour seeping further and further into summer and winter collections. Prints are also establishing themselves as perennial options, whatever the season or the weather and whoever the man.

Notwithstanding tradition, prints in all shapes and sizes have wasted little time in cementing themselves in our closets and personal style. There was a time when that odd printed shirt in a man’s everyday stack of shirts was brought out only for a visit to the beach or the park but now they are a common high street rage. This explosion is in the world of menswear is unusual, as it often takes a season or two for a trend to trickle down from catwalk to sidewalk. Most men are somewhat intrigued by this burst of apparently ‘girly’ clothes in their section of the stores and they feel a bit funny about wearing them.

The solution to begin with is to wear the printed shirt

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under a blazer or jumper in winters and under a plain shirt in the summers, showing just a flash of the pattern.

Like with everything, less is more, and showing a bit of print throws in a lot of punch! Wearing them alone makes a bigger, braver statement but can look somewhat overwhelming, especially on a large physique.

Apart from trying out different shirt types, you can add style with t-shirts too which are comfortable and cool in the summer. The way your t-shirts fit says a lot about you. Sounds girly again? Read on before you make up your mind: The well fitting t-shirt can highlight the part(s) of your body you’re most proud of without drawing attention to the areas you’re conscious of.

Confused? Next time you try one on, look at your naked torso in the mirror and ask yourself what your best attribute is?

• Arms: Then you want the sleeves to be slightly shorter, or give them a couple of folds, to accentuate your biceps and triceps.

• Pecs/Shoulders: You want a slim fitting style that skims through this part of the body.

• Abs/Narrow Waist: Look for tapered cuts that don’t drape around your waistline.

If you’re not entirely confident of your body, a feeling that affects many of us, or you feel that nothing really stands out, opt for a classic fit in your normal size (don’t wear an oversize in an attempt to conceal) and focus on the colour, neck style and fabric.

On the other hand, if you feel everything about your upper half is worth flaunting, well then, make sure you control the urge to go shirtless!

Here are some rules that apply to all body types: • A classic t-shirt shouldn’t finish below the top of your hips.

• Short sleeves shouldn’t cover more than half of your upper arm.

• A good fitting t-shirt isn’t restrictive, allows you to move comfortably and should never be skin-tight (with the exception of performance attire).

Be stylish; be confident and leave a unforgettable impression! n

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interview

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THE ART AND CRAFT

OF FOOD Two time Gourmand Award winner and leading food stylist, Michael Swamy comes from a family of food lovers. The author of several cook books tells Abid Mohammed about his latest experiments in the kitchen and wanting to become a vet, among other things As a child, were you fussy about food?

Absolutely! I think every kid is fussy about food. Our taste buds evolve as we grow up. However, the fussiness reduced because at a certain point my parents stepped in and taught me to try new things and appreciate new flavours and textures in food. There came quite a shocking, frustrating stage during the early growing up years when suddenly Mum would say “If you don’t like what you’re eating, tough luck! This is what you’re getting.” It became easier later though, as both she and Dad would coax me into trying something new by telling me that it was the most delicious thing ever!

Is there any food item that you do not like?

I do have a very strong dislike for anything overly sweet, overly greasy or overly spicy – particularly dishes where the vegetable or protein is masked completely by spices. I like to be able to taste the vegetables or meat without it being hidden under a mountain of spice.

When did you decide to become a chef?

I think it was around the time school life was coming to a close and we started seriously thinking about what I was to do for a living. I grew up watching and hero worshipping Martin Yan (Yan Can Cook) and Keith

Floyd (The Floyd Series) and wanted to be a TV chef like them. So Mum insisted that in order to be a “TV” chef, I needed to become a real chef first and know food in and out - the best advice anybody ever gave me.

What was your family’s reaction to your wanting to be a chef?

As I said earlier, it was my Mum who insisted I become a chef, so there were no qualms about it. My family never followed the typical “doctor-lawyer-engineer” chain of thought. Plus, I think they were happy about me undertaking culinary training because they all love food and a chef in the family meant something new coming out of the kitchen all the time!

Was there anything you wanted to do before starting on this culinary journey?

I always wanted to be a vet. In fact, the only reason I did not become one was that in order to study medicine, one’s Math and Science scores were considered and my math was pathetic. So when I realised that I’ll have to brush up my Math, I decided to go with dream number 2, which was equally important – TV chef! But my love for animals and wildlife lingered too and so as a chef, I do my bit by conducting workshops where I fuse cooking with wildlife conservation.

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interview

Given a chance, which talent would you most like to possess?

Singing, and the ability to be able to tell people that I can read their eyes and know whether they are genuine or out to use me. I believe in helping people so I help them regardless of their intent towards me, but yes, it would be nice to let the other person know right at the onset that I’m no fool.

You are also an author and a photographer. Tell us more about it?

Books have always been an important source of knowledge, entertainment and solace – particularly cook books as the pictures within would make me hungrier!

But I always found many cook books to be complicated.

When I got the opportunity to do a book myself, I decided now was the chance to make cooking simple for people. This need to simplify food drove me to writing more books. That’s how the author in me grew. And photography, well… I have always been fascinated by the camera. Somehow things have always seemed more beautiful when seen through a good lens. I walk around noticing the various shades of light. I love capturing images. They record moments that tell a story and this then translates into words that get penned down. Writing for me, is also a medium of telling my stories to the world. Putting my food on a plate tells a short story. The words and images leave behind a legacy.

Do these skills help and overlap with your culinary work?

They do in many ways. As a chef-cum-photographer, I don’t have to rely on photographers and stylists, when creating my own books. It’s all done in-house. Not only have I photographed and styled food for my own books but also for many others – all of them award-winning.

In fact, I recently won a Gourmand Award for food photography of a cook book called “Rare Gems, a nonvegetarian gourmet collection from Maharashtra.” Most importantly, it helps me plate my food better. I’ve also recently launched my own restaurant, NUEVA and we are already receiving tons of great feedback about how much the people love how the food looks, apart from the taste, of course.

Where did you train as a chef?

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“This need to simplify food drove me to writing more books. That’s how the author in me grew. ” I learned my basic culinary skills at Sophia Polytechnic in Mumbai and then went on to do my advanced diploma at the Le Cordon Blue in London.

How would you describe your style of cooking?

It’s very much French, but adapted to local ingredients.

My cooking is based on a combination of technique, flavour and look rather than ingredients.

Do you have a signature dish or favourite dish you enjoy cooking?

I have many! I love cooking with alcohol and beer. They are already well-flavoured liquid mediums and add lots of flavour to the food. My most recent favourite is lamb cooked in beerwith a touch of mint. I’m still perfecting it, but it’s definitely my new comfort dish.

What trends are you seeing in food today, and which are you most excited by?

The current trend of pairing cocktails with food rather than a single wine or whisky excites me. Many Michelin restaurants are also following this trend of making

mocktails famous – alcohol is no longer the fashion statement in the beverage industry. The purpose is to encourage people to enjoy themselves without getting drunk. Another trend I like is of the fine dining space doing away with tiny portions. Again, I’ve applied this at NUEVA because I believe in giving great food and value for money to people in a way that they don’t have to go home and eat a second meal because they’re still hungry. But my most favourite is the farm-to-fork trend where people are growing microgreens and baby greens or vegetables in their homes and eating them literally farm fresh.

Are there any ingredients that have fallen out of fashion for you?

Caviar and Foie Gras. They harm animals and if you look at the larger picture, they are harming the environment too. The use of endangered species and genetically modified food is something I abhor. I don’t get enticed by vegetables or fruits that look huge and picture perfect (despite my being a stylist) because they lack flavour and nutrients. Not to mention that people get sick eating them.

Tell us about your projects that are currently underway.

My restaurant NUEVA is the newest project as of now and is keeping me super busy. It’s the first restaurant in the country serving South American cuisine – not just Peruvian, all of South American. It also has a take on my signature dishes. Plus there is one more book in the pipeline.

Who are the other chefs you admire?

There are many – celebrity and those who have not yet seen the limelight. However, if I were to list my favourites, I would say Marco Pierre White, Heston Bluementhal and Paul Bocuse because I have been able to learn a lot from them.

What should people ideally eat in summers?

I would say, cooling foods like salads, plenty of fruits and greens and some rice. I feel meats should be avoided not only because they take longer to digest but also because there is a certain risk factor – particularly in Indian summers.

What’s your favourite street food?

Corn on the cob. For one, I love having it during the monsoons. Two, over the years, my stomach seems to have grown old and quickly reacts to the stuff I loved as a teenager like frankies and kebabs. Corn on the cob smeared liberally with lime juice, rock salt and chilli is currently the safest street food I can have.

Which is your favourite city when it comes to food?

Every city I travel to has offered something unique.

However, the food scene in London and Miami is something I love. And I would love to go experience the Paris food scene first hand. Someday soon hopefully. n

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heritage

PRESERVING INDIA’S LITERARY GOLD

The Asiatic Library is an awe-inspiring heritage structure all the way, from its Greek and Roman architecture to the rare treasures that lie within its walls, discovers Ashesh Pandia on a visit to the recently restored structure

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H

istoric, iconic, monumental and 184 years old, it’s the jewel in the crown of literary India. We’re talking about the legendary and the internationally renowned Town Hall, which hosts the amazing and the gigantic Asiatic Library. Located at South Mumbai’s famous landmark, the Horniman Circle, the British era’s Town Hall is a most wonderful creation gracing the skyline of Mumbai.

Very recently, it underwent a makeover that restored its old glory, albeit with a contemporary touch. The Asiatic Library too got a fillip with its conservation lab getting a new wing.

This heritage Victorian era structure catches your eye and imagination with its majestic stone architecture on the outside that is heavily influenced by the Greek and Roman style of construction. Designed by Col. Thomas Cowper of Bombay Engineers, this 200 feet across and 100 feet high Town Hall has a portico of eight Doric columns perched atop a 30 step staircase; even today it remains unparalleled in Mumbai’s engineering and architecture history.

With time taking its toll over the years, this magnificent edifice had fallen prey to leakages, breakages, rust and rot. Being a Grade 1 heritage structure, the State government decided to restore its old glory, and towards this end released Rs. 8.5 crores in two phases. The Public Works Department, under the aegis of one of India’s leading conservation architect Abha Narain Lambah, carried out the repair and restoration work and after 12 months of painstaking restoration work, the renovated Asiatic Library was once again thrown open to public on Sunday, 26th February, 2017.

Describing how ANL went about executing this mammoth task, Kruti Garg, Director, Conservation, ANL, says “We didn’t have many historic pictures of the interiors, so all the references came from the designs and details available in various parts of the building.

One of the most difficult aspects was to ensure that the books were well taken care of. We shifted the reading hall to a temporary shed outside the premises. However it was not possible to move the books outside the hall.

Therefore, all the cupboards were packed with plastic, bubble wrap, locked and sealed and kept in the central hall itself.”

ANL paid special attention to the cost-effectiveness of the project. “Working on restoring the roof of the building, our team was extremely skilled in using maximum salvage material which was found on site, retrieved and reused, rather than disposing it and bringing in new material,” says Kruti Garg. “This involved flitching new sections of wood with the old sections, repairs to the structural cracks and the trusses without removing them from their location. The wooden floor is largely left untouched. It is only where the condition of the wooden boards was damaged that we carefully removed it partially and reinstated with new wooden boarding.”

In today’s digital age when the concept of reading rooms and libraries is fast fading into oblivion, the Asiatic Library is a ray of hope cutting across the darkness of ignorance and apathy which threatens to destroy India’s rich and multi-dimensional literary legacy. Within its tranquil and peaceful environs, the Asiatic Library stores a mammoth collection of books, periodicals, ancient manuscripts, painted folios, coins, artifacts, maps and prints.

One of Mumbai’s oldest free-for-all reading facility, it houses over 3,00,000 books. Priceless artefacts, ancient manuscripts in Persian, Sanskrit, Urdu and Prakrit languages, over 1000 maps some of which date back to 100 years, the Library is custodian to a plethora of such rare and bibliographical treasures.

There is also a museum which holds a collection of primordial coins including a gold coin of Kumaragupta 1, a gold Mohur of Akbar, the great Mughal emperor, and coins from Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj’s era.

A popular tourist hot-spot because of its colonial roots, imperial look and the vast and varied treasure that it holds, the Asiatic Library’s primary purpose is to inspire research and preserve the age-old literature, sciences and oriental arts that are now considered rare and antique.

As the guardian of the treasure chest of India’s archaic knowledge, the onus of maintaining and preserving its priceless possessions lies with the administration of Asiatic Library. Though 184 years old, it was only in 1991 that the Library got its first ever conservation and restoration lab, thanks to the initiative taken by Sir Dorabji Tata Trust. Asked why the Society took

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heritage

“The Government of India’s grant is not good enough even to pay the staff salaries. These are paid from the revenue of the Library. ”

so much time to start the Laboratory, Asiatic Library’s President and retired IAS officer Mr. S. G. Kale said, “Somebody has to give us the money. The Government of India’s grant is not good enough even to pay the staff salaries. These are paid from the revenue of the Library.

The preservation work is entirely carried out with the help of donations. People are ready to give us money for a project, for capital expenditure. Not for revenue expenditure.”

Currently the library survives on a small annual grant of Rs. 10 lakh from the Bombay Municipal Corporation (BMC). It had been raised to Rs. 25 lakh but now again it has been rolled back to the original amount. The Library has some corpus fund, the interest of which is used for staff, revenue activities, paying telephone bills, electricity bills. National Archives of India too has approved some grant to the Asiatic Library for microfilming the books.

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“In 2015, the Government of Maharashtra had given the Library 5 Crores for digitisation of books,” says Mr. Kale. “Under that grant we have digitised around 23000 books which are free from copyright. We have newspapers dating back to 1801. We are microfilming them and also digitising them. The idea is to put these up on a web portal where the world can access it.

Downloading is not possible for obvious reasons. The web portal is a work-in-progress and will be launched in the near future.” The portal will not be a free-for all. The life-members of the Society would be charged lesser than an outsider who will have to pay some registration charge to view the portal.

The conservation process of the Library is divided into three parts. All those books which very old and in dilapidated condition are sent for restoration to the laboratory. Once there, each page of the book is put through chemical and other processes and made

readable enough. They are then bound and given a fresh new look. The second step is digitisation. Those books which are free from copyright and in a condition good enough to be digitised are sent to the digitisation department. These books will eventually find their place in the upcoming portal. While about 200 books pass through the restoration process in a year, the library has so far digitised 23000 books. Microfilming is the third part. Microfilming is done for something as big as newspapers so that they can be stored in microfilm rolls.

These rolls require special storage such as fire-proof cupboards, which the library purchased a few years back.

The Rotary Club of Bombay has been of tremendous help to Asiatic Library. The Urban Renewal Heritage Committee of the Club donated Rs. 25 lakh towards setting up of a new wing of the conservation laboratory.

This new wing will enhance the restoration capacity of the laboratory from the present 100 books per year to 200 books per year. Besides this, the Club has donated funds to restore 100 books, to purchase map storage

cabinets, and put up chandeliers in the Central Library Hall.

The technology currently being used for conservation, restoration and preservation of books is the same as the one used in the Department of Archives, says Mr. Kale.

“Our laboratory follows an internationally approved procedure of conservation and restoration. We have got an expert in our committee who has certified that the procedure we are following is in accordance with the standard norms of International Federation of Libraries.

There is an internal as well as external quality control in place.”

To run a 184 year old institution and carry out restoration and conservation of books which are rare and age-old masterpieces on a daily basis is no less than a herculean task. Nevertheless, the staff of the Asiatic Library has been performing this difficult duty steadfastly and diligently for over 25 years now and hope to continue doing so in the years to come, with a promise to researchers and avid readers – of keeping India’s literary gold glittering for generations to come. n

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Feature

WEIRD, WACKY AND WONDERFUL STAYS Fancy sleeping in a lion’s cage or maybe on reindeer fur in a room cut out from ice or even in a functional crane? Darshan Vinayaka searches for and comes up with the most novel hotels to be found around the world 1. NO MAN’S FORT SOLENT, PORTSMOUTH, UK No Man’s Fort - A Victorian era naval fortress which was originally built between 1867 and1880 to protect Portsmouth from an attack from Napoleon III has been turned into a luxury hotel with the most dramatic seascapes. It includes 22 luxury bedrooms, a lighthouse suite, nightclub, hot tub and laser quest arena. One night in this middle of the sea resort will set you back by a whopping 50,990 INR.

2. ICEHOTEL, JUKKASJARVI, SWEDEN One of the wonders of Sweden, the Icehotel is rebuilt each year with snow and ice in the village of Jukkasjarvi in northern Sweden. It first opened in the year 1990 when some guests slept in an igloo for lack of any other accomodation. Everything including the furniture is constructed every year from snow and ice taken from the nearby Torne river. Artists are invited to create different rooms and decorations made from ice in this hotel that only exists for 4 months in a year.

Even the glasses in the bar are made of ice. There is also an ice chapel that is popular among marrying couples. The temperature of the hotel is below -5 degrees C and the beds are lined with reindeer fur.

One night here is a modest 6237 INR. A must visit to see the aurora borealis or the northern lights.

3.THE MANTA RESORT, PEMBA ISLAND, TANZANIA If you can’t wait for Poseidon to open then the Manta Resort in Tanzania has its very own fantastical

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underwater rooms where you can watch all kinds of fish to your heart’s content. The floating structure on East Africa’s finest island sanctuary has three levels, including a roof which is perfect for launching off into the sea. It is also one of the best diving sites in the world, surrounded by untouched coral reefs. The resort calls out to guests, not tourists, looking forward to being one with nature and spending time in good company. A night spent here will cost you anything between 12,818 to 27,772 INR. 4. CRANE HOTEL, HARLINGEN, THE NETHERLAND Guests will forgive this hotel’s less than glamorous, dockside location once they get inside the 150 feet high room. Meant just for two, this unique hotel is an actual working crane but with the comforts of the latest designer hotel room, maybe even better. You can rotate the room by 360 degrees to enjoy panoramic views of the Wadden sea. A night in this funky and very private hotel will lighten your wallet by 22,710 INR. 5. EL COSMICO, MARFA, TEXAS, USA El Cosmico in Marfa Texas describes itself as a nomadic hotel. Types of shelters include vintage trailers, safari, tents, teepees, yurts and tents campsites. This isn’t as slapstick as it sounds and good design is at the forefont of El Cosmico. It offers a perfect rustic getaway though not far from the modern amenities. Liz Lambert, the

owner also owns two boutique hotels in Austin and one in San Antonio. With fire-pits, catchy music and arty people to mingle with, the experience will cost you about 120,72 INR per night.

6. JUMBOSTAY STOCKHOLM ARLANDA AIRPORT , SWEDEN Like the name suggests, the hotel is inside a decommissioned 747-200 jetliner. The original aircraft was built for Singapore Airlines in 1976, registered 9V-SQE and later it was sold to Pan America. Converted to provide overnight accommodation, you can chose between a suite, twin room, luxury room or budget dormitory. The best room is undoubtedly the cockpit suite complete with a view that might even catch some planes landing at Stockholm Arlanda next door. The exhilarating experience is ideal for aviation enthusiasts and even children. A night spent in the jumbo jet is going to find you lighter by 10,037 INR. 7. COSTA VERDE, MANUEL ANTONIO NATIONAL PARK, COSTA RICA This one’s for the jungle lovers. The Costo Verde team have transported and refurbished a 1965

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Feature

vintage Boeing 727 airframe to create a fantastic, 2-bedroom tree-house suite. The structure is set out on a concrete plinth that just 50 feet into the jungle’s canopy. The furnishings are hand-carved teak with the rear bedroom equipped with a handcrafted deck top the wing. You could either observe your tree top neighbours – toucans, sloths and monkeys or turn your gaze towards the sea. A night here is every bit worth the 9,852 INR spent.

8. POSEIDON UNDERSEA RESORT, FIJI This underwater hotel on a private island in Fiji has taken 13 years to build and so far an estimated 150, 000 people have registered to stay at the Poseidon resort when it does finally open. Designed by the US Submarine company, the project was to be the world’s first permanent one-atmosphere seafloor structure.

The ‘luxury lodging for the adventurous kind’ will cost $ 1500 per night.

9. CAPSULEVALUE, KANDA, TOKYO, JAPAN Originating in Osaka, the capsule hotel is a popular concept in Japan. Stacked side by side and one on top of another to maximize space, you can expect to pay around 30 yen or 4,142 INR per night. You are provided with a towel, dressing gown and toothbrush. Not meant those seeking luxury, this hotel’s idea originated from the Europe-Helsinki airports which introduced their own sleeping pods.

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10. PROPELLER ISLAND, CITY LODGE, BERLIN, GERMANY German Artist Lars Stroschen designed this museum meets hotel, which has 30 radical rooms ranging from the tame to the extreme.

There’s a room lined with angled mirror, another with broken glasses, a padded cell, a crypt room (where the beds are coffins), a room with lion cages as beds, and a room which is upside down. Any of these weird but true rooms is 12,072 per night.

11. AMANGIRI, CANYON POINT, UTAH, USA Amangiri is a breathtaking hideaway in the canyons of Southwest America. Whether you’re looking for peace or for adventure, this most luxurious resort in Utah offers both.

With the most unusual surroundings, the hotel close to the border of Arizona blends into its dramatic landscape. It is within easy distance of the Grand Canyon and The National Monument, one of the world’s richest paleontology sites. A room is $ 2,683 per night. n

Travelogue

ZAPPED AT ZHOUZHUANG

Gita Viswanath gets lost in the past and then finds her way in quaint Zhouzhuang, the Venice of China

W

hen Arun, my niece’s husband put me on the 7 am bus to Zhouzhuang at the Shanghai Bus Centre, little did I realize that I was on a journey that would take me back by several centuries. The bus had just one more passenger, a young Chinese girl, besides the driver and the lady conductor. I thought there would be a delay with having to wait for more tourists but to my utter surprise, it left with the two of us on its hour and a half drive to Zhouzhuang.

We drove on the expansive expressways with beautiful landscaped dividers until the monotony of it put me to sleep. I was woken up by the conductor, who was laughing to find me asleep. She managed to communicate by showing on my watch that I should return at 2.30 pm.

On arrival, I was accosted by a man selling maps for 3 yuan. I bought one, despite my poor map reading skills. My traveling companion vanished in

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Travelogue

the meanwhile. Armed with the map, which luckily had markings in English, I set out trying to find my way through the narrow alleys with my knowledge of Mandarin restricted to “Nihaw” (Hello) and “Sisia” (Thank You). The next few hours were filled with wonder, a sense of abandon and some anxiety.

Especially when I went round in circles returning to the entry gate instead of the exit one with a frowning security guard refusing to let me exit!

Located between Shanghai and Suzhou, Zhouzhuang is an ancient town in the Jiangsu province of Southern China. It is dotted with Changhu and Nanhu lakes that form natural defenses for the town. It was Chen Yifei, a young US based artist who put Zhouzhuang on the world tourist map with his series of paintings called “Memories of Heaven.” The Twinbridge from this series was used on a first day cover issued by the UN in 1985. Since then, Zhouzhuang has become part of every tourist’s itinerary. The legendary beauty of the place is inscribed in proverbs such as: “The heavens have their paradise while the earth is proud of having Zhouzhuang” and folk songs which describe life in Zhouzhuang as better than that of the gods in heaven.

The town, like Venice, is part of a landscape of meandering rivers and placid lakes. The architecture and way of life is retained from time immemorial. All the houses are built along the streams with sidewalks and water lanes. The network of water lanes in Zhouzhunag even resembles one of the Chinese characters! Stone bridges and overhead towers facilitate free passage for the local people. The murmuring streams under small bridges and courtyards are each surrounded by dwelling quarters.

These stone bridges are very old, fourteen of which were built in the Yuan, Ming and Qing dynasties. The most representative of them are the twin bridges, Fu’an Bridge, Zhenfeng Bridge and Fuhong Bridge. The single arched Fu’an Bridge was built in 1355.

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The area is crisscrossed by the Yinzi and Nanbei rivers and the bridges are built in north-south and east-west directions acting as symbols of the continuities between the past and present which is

the uniqueness of this place. Each side of the bridges has carved beams and painted rafters. The people in the town continue to live the way their ancestors did centuries ago. Rowing boats, shooing off huge black ducks that keep jumping on and off the boats, fishing, making and selling goods, these people are like anachronisms lending the place a surreal quality.

Tea Houses are an integral part of the landscape of Zhouzhuang. Built by rich traders centuries ago, these houses are now open to tourists who can walk around and get an idea of life in a bygone era. Shen’s House is located in the southeast of Fu’an Bridge. It was built in 1742 during the Qing dynasty by Shen Benren, who was a wealthy man in Southern China in the late Yuan and early Ming dynasty. It consists of seven courtyards, five archways, about 70 rooms in 7 rows made of nanmu, which is a kind of wood, covering an area of 2000 sq. meters. It has three sections. The first includes the water gate and wharf for mooring boats and washing. The second consists of the tea hall and main hall for receiving guests and holding wedding and funereal ceremonies. The rear part is the living quarters. A 200 year old practice of gathering in the tea houses and talking and singing continues till date.

An important part of a trip to Zhouzhuang is the experimentation with food, which I being a vegetarian had to necessarily refrain from. The specialty of this place is Wansan Pig which is pig’s thigh roasted in soya sauce. Huge pieces kept in glass cases are a common sight here. The residents of the place make their living today by selling tea, the famed Chinese embroidery, paintings, pearls and curios. I saw a man painstakingly cleaning oyster shells which had 2 to 4 pearls embedded in each. He looked so grim that I was afraid of seeking his permission for a photograph.

The women are actively involved in the economy of the place through the use of their traditional skills like painting, embroidery and cooking. Shopping is a fascinating experience here. The “shop” is not a space demarcated from the “home.” Women sell their wares from their homes where they create the goods.

Truly a pre-modern way of living in which the division of public and private space was nebulous. Yet, the

women are savvy in their selling skills. Language or rather lack of it is no barrier while shopping.

In Shanghai, we bargained with the help of the calculator! In Zhouzhuang, we needed to be experts at gesticulating! With my niece’s warning about jacked up prices, I was cautious and asked for ridiculously large discounts and was quite stunned when they agreed. So, I ended up happily buying pearls, a painting and an embroidered purse.

Shopping and sightseeing are seamless activities here. Not in Zhouzhuang the sensory overload of the Shanghai malls cunningly designed to encourage impulse buying.

Here, when you pick up a piece of embroidery, you do so not because it was displayed attractively or it was available on sale; rather one would buy it out of a sense of respect for the woman bent over her piece of cloth doing her work so dexterously. The connection between the artist and the work of art is tangible and overwhelming. Just when all this makes you take a temporal leap into a forgotten past, you are accosted by a zealous photographer who takes your picture with a digital camera, prints it and frames it for you, for anything between 10 and 30 yuan (Rs 60 to 180) depending on your haggling skills. You come away amazed at the harmonious co-existence of two entirely different time capsules. n

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recipes

Pumpkin Tea Soup I love experimenting with different liquids when cooking and tea is one of my most favourite ingredients. Here, I have used flavoured tea to make this subtle soup.

Ingredients

method

4 cups diced pumpkin 1 small onion, roughly chopped 2 inch piece fresh ginger, peeled and sliced ½ teaspoon coriander seeds 6 cups water or mild vegetable stock 2 tablespoons rose-flavoured green tea tied in a bundle with cheesecloth salt to taste freshly ground black pepper to taste For garnish Edible flowers Heavy cream

 Combine the pumpkin with onion, ginger, coriander seeds and stock in a saucepan. Place the pan over medium high heat and bring to a boil.  Cover the pan and cook, stirring occasionally till pumpkin is cooked through.  When pumpkin is very tender and almost mashy, add tea bundle to the pan, reduce flame to low and simmer for 5 minutes.  Remove pan from flame and allow mixture to cool.  Remove and discard the tea bundle.  Transfer pumpkin mixture to a blender and blend to a smooth puree. Strain the puree into the same saucepan and add salt and pepper.  Heat the soup over medium low flame till hot.  Serve hot garnished with edible flower petals and a swirl of cream.

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Jalapeño Poppers This is a simple quick recipe from my most recent book Comfort Food which won the Gourmand Award at the national level for ease of its recipes. Try and see for yourself how simple this recipe really is.

ingredients 1 cup grated cottage cheese 3/4 cup grated cheddar cheese ½ cup grated mozzarella cheese 8 – 10 large jalapeño chillies, deseeded and minced salt to taste vegetable oil for deep frying 1 egg, beaten ¾ cup panko breadcrumbs

method  In a mixing bowl, combine cottage cheese with cheddar, mozzarella, minced jalapeños and salt and mix very well.  Divide into baby potato-sized portions and shape each portion into a bullet.  Heat oil in a kadhai or wok over medium heat.  Dip the prepared bullets (poppers) in egg and roll in breadcrumbs. Add to the hot oil and deep fry till golden and crisp. Remove and drain on absorbent paper.  Serve hot with any creamy dip of your choice.

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tech talk

A good listener and part time wordsmith, Varun Shukla prefers coffee over tea. Football and technology are his twin passions. Follow him on Twitter: @wengerarmy

Should You Care If GPS fails completely?

Not only would you not be able to hail an Uber, but all cell phone towers and financial trade houses could crash - and it looks like the code’s on the Net for everyone to use, warns Varun Shukla

A

wealthy business tycoon, having built a luxurious, state-of-the-art super yacht capable of navigating the high seas, hires an expert hacker to test out vulnerabilities in the vessel’s navigation system. The hacker deploys a GPS spoofing system that feeds false coordinates to the ship. It veers off course, and the hacker is able to steal millions of dollars’ worth of oil paintings in the process.

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That could well have been the plotline for the upcoming Oceans 14 movie, if it weren’t entirely true, except for the part about the hacker making off with the ship. The White Rose is a 65 meter, 80-milliondollar yacht that has marble and gold bathrooms and houses the aforementioned oil paintings. In 2012, the captain of The White Rose asks Todd Humphreys to perform a similar hack on his ship.

Director of the Radionavigation Lab at the University of Austin, Humphreys had already successfully brought down a military drone as a test earlier that year. The ship sets sail from Morocco to Greece with the spoofing equipment on board. On the second day, Humphreys’ equipment — a complicated combination of code and hardware that is capable of duplicating signals from satellites orbiting nearby, starts to replace the actual GPS signal with their own, which the ship latches on to.

The crew is convinced that they’re drifting 3 degrees to the left. By the time Humphreys calls off the hack, the ship is a kilometer off course. None of its systems had noticed anything wrong, and the ‘corrections’ were made by the crew themselves, believing the false signal to be authentic.

Along with positional information for navigation, GPS signals provide highly specific time readings.

Receivers around the world synchronize themselves with clocks on board GPS satellites; accurate to 100 billionths of a second, these atomic clocks allow many critical infrastructure systems to run efficiently.

Cell phone towers, for example, use GPS to keep all their base stations in sync, enabling the network to share the limited amount of radio spectrum better. Monitoring systems distributed over large geographical locations, such as the radars used by the US Federal Aviation Administration to report hazardous weather can guarantee accuracy largely because of GPS. Even the timestamps that ATM’s and financial firms use to record and trace transactions depend on the information supplied by GPS. It is surprising that the ‘civilian’ GPS which all these systems use is unencrypted. The appropriate signal codes are a matter of public record, for those willing to search for them. The signals that reach earth are almost imperceptible. G.P.S. experts often compare processing the signal to trying to read by the light of a

single bulb in a city thousands of miles away.

Someone like Todd Humphreys, then, would be able to disrupt communications networks and cause major markets to crash. That person would also be capable of large scale acts of terror — planes crashing in mid air, and ships with valuable cargo disappearing. While such capabilities may be out of reach for organized terror groups or most individuals, Humphreys’ himself says that “nearpeer nation states” could already possess spoofing technologies.

Iran had claimed as far back as 2011 to have developed a spoofer, when an American Sentinel drone was ‘brought down’ in the northeastern city of Kashmar. At the 2015 DEFCON security conference in Nevada, two Chinese researchers demonstrated a low-cost system that fooled another drone into entering airspace prohibited by its software. That same August, Humphreys learnt that a Japanese professor had uploaded the code for a GPS simulator to GitHub, a freely accessible online repository.

With GPS seemingly under threat, we might need to depend on a technology first used during World War 2: long range navigation through terrestrial signals.

Studies and field tests by the US Department of Defense proved the technology, dubbed eLoran, was ‘nearly unhackable’ and 1.3 million times stronger than a GPS signal. Strangely, while the US programme was killed in 2010 due to budgeting constraints, other countries such as Russia, the Netherlands, Britain and India are either planning to, or already have such systems in place.

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book review

A VISUAL DELIGHT Masterchef Vikas Khanna has written and published many books, most of them recipe books, but what sets Essence of Seasoning apart is its presentation.

This hard cover, 260 page book is visually stunning with each dish shot and presented beautifully. The book also has Khanna’s thoughts and life experiences, even a poem penned down by him!

The globe- trotting Chef has preserved his Indian sensibilities in this book, where he explores new combinations and techniques, bringing a fresh perspective to cooking with the same ingredients.

In one of the chapters Vikas reminisces about his struggle in New York and how he had to be patient to find the right home with the perfect view. Another chapter is dedicated to various Indian spices and herbs and goes into details about each spice and its history. However, I felt that an image of the spice along with its common Indian name would not have been out of place as those are the names we use everyday.

The book has almost 100 recipes, divided between starters, drinks, side dishes, main course and desserts.

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Delicacies like Mushrooms in baked Filo pastry pouches, Cauliflower with ginger and peanuts, Creamy beet salad vegetable olan and South Indian Tamarind pulao among others are quite easy to make. I have tried a few myself and been quite successful.

In most of his books, including Essence of Seasoning Vikas Khanna makes it a point to share thoughtful tips on handling spices and herbs, which I must confess comes in handy.

A lot of hard work, love and passion has gone into making this book and it shows. More than just a recipe book, Essence of Seasoning is a collector’s item. n Hardback Rs 810/Published by Bloomsbury Available online and at leading bookstores Review by Abid Mohammed

fortune teller

Bejan Daruwalla is a well- known Astrologer and Author

Monthly predictions March-2017 Know what the stars have in store for you from none other than Bejan Daruwalla, the most popular Indian astrologer who has also authored hundreds of books on the topic Aries (21st March to 20th April) Not much happens in the beginning of the month. Be careful in committed relations as well as financial matters. Unless it is unavoidable, refrain from taking any financial decisions. Re-ignite communication with people who matter. Health needs watching on 18th and 19th. If you are a parent, you shall feel happy with the growth and progress of your child. Go with the flow, but do not get carried away by emotions.

Taurus (21st April to 21st May) : Love is in the air, as the month begins.

Those trading in stock markets and mutual funds must remain careful. If you wish to get good returns on a past investment, wait out this period.

New love or marriage may induce

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you to spend indiscriminately.

Watch out! If you are a parent, you may remain concerned about your kid’s physical growth and intellectual progress. Month end will be a good time to enjoy with friends or family.

Gemini (22nd May to 21st June) : March looks set to be a usual month, in many ways. Focus on others for a change instead of yourself.

Be unconditional in your approach (at least, to some extent). If ground realities seem to be pulling you back, just go with the flow. On 13th, you make headway in monetary matters. Month-end signals busier times. You may not have enough motivation, but you will have to slog it out now. Those hoping to start a family may have to wait.

Cancer (22nd June to 22nd July):

Is something playing on your mind? If it’s your career, note that worrying will not help.

But, planets may not be helpful so it is best to keep reviewing, until mid-month. Your personal life may also be the cause of your confusion. Its effects may be spiraling negatively on your work front. Relax, as it is probably all in your mind. Don’t let anyone at your workplace get a scent of your plans. 30th brings fresh hope and cheer.

Leo (23rd July to 22nd August): Shun laziness and confusion. Meeting an influential person will make you optimistic about future success early in the month. 13th brings luck in matters related to communications, gadgets, health and more. You may be pulled

towards your past, in some way. Are you set to repeat a past mistake?

Don’t get misguided by flatterers.

Try to improve your image. Unless inevitable, refrain from making investments. Don’t vent out your frustration on someone innocent.

Virgo (23rd August to 22nd September): Stars are sending some creative flourish your way now, so take advantage. Try not to invest your money in a new scheme on 2nd and 3rd.

Resolve a personal issue amicably even if you are busy! A past issue may open up. Deal carefully. 20th brings a conflict, maybe a mental one. But, you shall manage to soar over obstacles. This is a conducive time for developing your personality. So, go ahead, join a class or a like minded group.

Libra (23rd September to 22nd October): Change may be on your mind, as the month begins. But, don’t let this take away your focus from the tasks at hand. Health remains fragile. Take care to not hurt the sentiments of people around you.

Despite the force and vigour, you may still not feel happy with your job. It would be better to go slow in matters of new relationships.

Some cheerful moments with kids or loved ones will rejuvenate you.

On 17th, you may be packing bags for a work related trip. Students

desiring to go abroad for higher studies receive support from the planets.

Scorpio (23rd October to 22nd November): There may be not much momentum, as the month begins. Rising expenses may cause tiff at the home front.

Lots is happening at work and thankfully you will have ample energy for it. Learning new skills gets a starry nod through the month end. However, you must be careful and guard your well being.

At work, you will manage to push your prospects. This is also a good time to adopt a new work strategy.

Sagittarius (23rd November to 21st December): You shall work towards attaining your immediate goals, as the month begins. Love stars shine brightly. Enjoy! Health needs care so don’t over indulge. Sort out marital troubles maturely. Visit an orphanage or a blind school.

You will feel grateful for what you have. Month end brings luck. Good time to make client presentations.

Meeting someone influential is likely. Ones looking to become parents too shall be supported by stars.

Capricorn (22nd December to 20th January): March begins on a slightly chaotic note.

Carry on unperturbed, instead of trying to settle everything down.

Remember, you can only balance your own life, not others. Let work take a back-seat for some time.

Traveling abroad is likely in the near future. Love may encourage you to take a supercharged step.

Married ones should not act possessively, though. Don’t forget your supplements and fitness routines, while having fun.

Aquarius (21st January to 18th February): Those in jobs may wish for a change. Keep trying, as planets seem to be supportive.

Short terms travel will bring good gains. There will be a lot happening on the personal and social front, post 5th. Watch out for mineral deficiencies. There is good indication for accruing monetary gains. However, don’t let your success get to your head.

Be careful of people you meet, especially when travelling.

Pisces (19th February to 20th March): A new job or business opportunity knocks at your doors, albeit briefly, on 1st or 2nd. Take quick action, but don’t promise anything. Don’t neglect your health. You need right sort of energy now, as there will be some fresh insights and interesting moments. Visualize what you want in future. You never know what may come true! 24th may bring a new career move or work responsibility.

Take up the challenge, but if you are not upto it, don’t hesitate to decline. n

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bold words

happy

Twitterati express their thoughts on Karan Johar’s twins

arjun rampal @ rampalarjun @karanjohar Congratulations Karan, this is the best news in years.

You will make an amazing parent. Love to the little ones. God bless.

PRIYANKA @priyankachopra Congratulations @karanjohar so happy for you. May Yash and Roohi always have a beautiful healthy life. Much love always

Divya Dutta @ divyadutta25 @karanjohar god bless you, Yash n roohi!!! Wishing u loads of happiness and a beautiful journey with ur little ones

Aishwaryaa.R.Dhanush @ ash_r_dhanush @karanjohar this is so sweet..congratulations welcome to the world of dark circles n load of diapers yet absolute meaning to life n bliss Preity zinta @ realpreityzinta Congrats @karanjohar Sooooo happy for you & Hiroo Aunty. I’m sure Yash & Roohi will bring light & happiness to ur lives lotza love

Ramesh Srivats @ rameshsrivats Congratulations #KaranJohar on becoming a father. In a few years, the kids can have Toffee With Karan.

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Pritish Nandy @ PritishNandy Congratulations, Karan. A very brave and wonderful decision.

march 2017

KAPIL @KapilSharmaK9 n congratulations for ur family.. happy for u .. god bless u n ur family.. lots of love n blessings for Yash n roohi :))

Alia Bhatt @aliaa08 Finally I can say I have a younger brother AND sister!!!!!! So so so happy soo much love to give uff bursting with joy!!!!!