BandraBuzz creating community connect since 2010
August 2020 | Volume 11 Issue 8 | Published Monthly | www.bandrabuzz.com | To Advertise: Call 9820783686 or 9920299787 | 16 pages | Price: Rs. 5/-
Mark Dharmai Spells Guts & Glory
In my esteem, he stands over 10 feet tall. Mark Dharmai, the para-athlete world champion level badminton player, proves his motto all right: from the impossible to the possible. Embracing every opportunity that life throws his way, Mark is the epitome of positivity. A meeting with him motivates you to strive for the best, as he has. It’s his determination that has taken him the world over, from Germany to Canada, to the Asian Games and other tournaments, fiercely wielding that badminton racket and coming up trumps. The accolades include a countless number of medals about which he says modestly, “I really don’t count them… But each medal reminds me of the training and the hard work that went into winning it.” What drives him is “the challenge of doing something. If there’s something I can do, I want to do it. I want to make people aware that we (dwarfs) exist and we can do it.” And the human motivating force behind him since childhood has been his mother who took a lot of care of him “and motivated me when I wanted to get into sports. From there on, I started pushing myself.” Mrs. Dharmai’s advice to her son was, “Just keep playing and do whatever your heart wants to. Don’t give up. You may fall the first, second and third time but the fourth time people will appreciate you.” Combined with the movie Rocky Balboa, which had a strong impact on him, he went forward. Like he says, “when I watched that movie I was really inspired. And the song ‘Eye of the Tiger’ drives me – I play it while working out.” Mark has also been blessed with a strong support system by the way of close friends from Chimbai, where he lives. “They are my childhood friends who have supported me in good and bad times. If not for a strong support system, it would have been very difficult.” But keeping the blessings all to himself is the last thing Mark wants! He’s constantly on the lookout for people to train and has put many para-athletes on the map, with his dedication. Like the three-feet tall Bina Gandhi who he’s training in shot put for the Dwarf Olympics in 2022, to be held in Germany… and the badminton players Ruhi Shingade and Suresh Sutar. Where does his professional inspiration come from? “It’s from my life coach Nawal Seth (a gem of a person), who’s very encouraging to dispel negativity and show us the way forward. I travel to Lucknow where my coach has a base camp for
Mark Dharmai, a resident of Chimbai, is hoping to represent India in the upcoming Dwarf Olympics 2022 in Germany with the help of sponsors para-athletes and at times, he sends us to Bangalore, where we play with able bodies. It’s very different playing with them – you learn from your mistakes and it’s more of a challenge. Being informed by our coach that we are on world level tournaments, they respect us and share a lot with us. Ever since I got a membership for Bandra Gym as well, a lot of the members have helped me improve my game. I also travel to camps in Haryana and Chandigarh.” His favourite badminton player is the now-retired Lin Dan, who he got to meet when he attended the Yonex organised Legend Vision meet. “In fact, I got to meet all the legends, which was my dream!” He is also strong about – country first – when it comes to representing India. “It
makes me very proud and gives me a lot of courage. You have to respect the country you come from.” He admits that he has received support at the state level too and now knows how the system works. “Considering the struggle I went through, I don’t want others to go through the same. I do as much as I can in my capacity to help someone else.” Does he have an eye on the Dwarf Olympics 2022 to be held in Germany? He enthuses, “Yes, I have to go! But only if I get sponsors…The government supports some tournaments but where Germany is concerned, we have to go on our own. My life coach, who I mentioned earlier, Mr. Nawal Seth, will explain how to go about things and Dr. Cheryl D’Souza the dentist is also
guiding me. The badminton player Disha Pandya also supports us.” But as always, Mark is thinking bigger and out of the box since he wants to take along at least 25 athletes! He’s not sure of generating the funds right now and admits, “I know this is very challenging but let’s see. I really want to make people aware that there are people like us… You do find life partners when you go there as well. Around 600-800 athletes attend these tournaments and you get to make good friends too.” He, of course, has many from Britain, the U.S., Canada, Beirut and even Egypt! Language, for him, is not a stumbling block on an international level. “Since I was born and brought up in Bandra, thankfully, English is no problem. A lot of people have difficulty speaking the language. When I went abroad for the first time there was this impression that I am from India so I can’t speak English. But they were surprised when I went up and had a conversation with people!” His ultimate goal is to have his own academy where others like him can play the sports they like and motivate others. “People are aware of able sports persons but they don’t know much about us.” So Mark tries to create awareness wherever he goes and reaches out to them. “There are schemes for them to get help – like my bike (it’s a modified three-wheeler) is from a government scheme. There are also other schemes like a quota for government jobs, bank schemes, senior citizen schemes.” Tough beginnings, like the bullying in school, etc., didn’t get him down for long. “But you can’t be negative. You have to get out of that space.” Again, it was his mother who pushed him with. “the world is not going to feed you, I am feeding you.” So he always remains positive despite the fact that, “You have to climb that ladder one step at a time and that is difficult.” But he did it and reiterates “I always have that support – be it from my family, godparents, friends or even the religious-like priests. It was a great challenge but I took it up and succeeded… My biggest support comes from God Almighty and prayers. I want people to know that if I could do it, they can too.” When you think of celebrating life, truly, Mark comes to mind! We hope he gets all the support he needs to champion the cause of para-athletes like him… Virginia Vacha Pic Credit: Jordana Quadros
02
NEWS
BANDRA BUZZ | AUGUST 2020
Executive Enclave opts for clean energy
Still Climbing Up the staircase?
Call NOW on
98219 36459 for an effortless climb
""
�
The solar panels installed over an area of 2,400 square feet at Executive Enclave generates approximately 120 units per day With rising awareness of the long-term benefit of renewable energy, the adoption of Solar Power has gained momentum. Being a resident of Bandra west, I was very excited to hear that a local hotel, “Executive Enclave” has successfully installed rooftop solar. With help from Bandra Buzz, I got in touch with the owner, Mr. Rohra. He was very quick to respond and invited me to have a look at his setup. So, in my characteristic way, I hopped on to my bicycle and embarked on a new adventure, to Executive Enclave! I was delighted and proud to see that the hotel has geared up to work and serve its guests during the Pandemic. They have installed systems to comply with the World Health Organization’s COVID-19 Check-In protocol. The hotel has also allowed part of its premises to be used as a drive-through testing centre. On my arrival, I met Mr. Rohra and he accompanied me to the terrace to have a look at the setup. He is a very friendly person, not only with me but also with his staff. He explained to me how he had approached Oorjan, a company based in Goregaon for this project. Oorjanwas the one-stop for the entire project. They carried out all necessary surveys and helped set up the panels. The company has also tied up with Adani Electricity, who provide solar panels and arrange for the generated electricity to be returned to the grid. From the generation figures, the equivalent amount in rupees is deducted from the monthly electricity bill of Executive Enclave. This integration and partnership have made the purchase, installation and maintenance of the panels much simpler.
With a mobile application on his phone, Mr. Rohra could view real-time updates of units that are generated in a day and other statistics. I was in awe of the facilities available to customers and the convenience with which such a project could be undertaken and successfully implemented. At Executive Enclave, the solar panels were installed over an area of 2,400 square feet which generated approximately 120 units per day. Besides, Mr. Rohra had opted for bifacial panels, which are more effective as they make use of direct as well as diffused sunlight. The total project cost was approximately 18 lakhs which includes the installation of solar panels and the erection of supporting steel trusses. Every month, the panels generate approximately Rs. 50,000 equivalents of energy, thus having a total payback period of 3 years. I headed home and was lucky to not get caught in the rain. Which reminds me, even on a cloudy day in August, the panels could generate 50-80 units in a day. The concept of solar power and the generation of electricity at your very own rooftop has revived my thoughts on sustainable homes. Homes/ buildings which generate their electricity, recycle and ruse water and grow their vegetables may be a dream of the future, but something I would like to be a part of. I want the suburb of Bandra to be pioneers for the generation of renewable energy and set an example for other suburbs. In Mumbai. If we work toward it, one day we can be truly self-sufficient, or as Modi ji says, Atmanirbhar. Sameer Hadker
®
STAIRCHAIR Adding mobility in life
BANDRA BUZZ | AUGUST 2020
NEWS
PLANT AGAINST POLLUTION In celebration of our 74th Independence Day, the ‘I Love Mumbai’ Foundation in collaboration with the BKS (Bandra-Khar-Santacruz) Citizens Group took up an initiative called ‘Plant Against Pollution’, which aimed to plant 1000 trees in the neighbourhood. The president of the NGO - ‘I love Mumbai’, Mr. Rahul Kanal is also a core member of the Yuva Sena and a close aide of our Environment Minister, Mr. Aaditya Thackeray. ‘I love Mumbai’ has been reaching out to various citizen groups across Mumbai to extend support to the underprivileged and spread awareness and education to the less fortunate. With the looming threat of environmental hazards, this initiative was born out of the need to increase our green cover and make more people aware about the long term benefits of planting more trees. Between the 12th and 16th of August, this year tree saplings of a wide variety like guava, amla, and tamarind saplings amongst others were distributed amongst
citizens of Bandra, Khar and Santa Cruz. Many citizens voluntarily participated in the drive and enthusiastically helped each other in planting the saplings. All the tree saplings were adopted by residents of these areas and planted in their neighbourhoods. The global pandemic has been challenging for all of us individually and as a community and this drive to plant against pollution was successful in helping citizens do something constructive for our environment by spreading awareness and encouraging each other to adopt a sapling and nurture it into a tree. This Independence Day Initiative spread over 4 days was successful in planting over 1000 trees by citizens and residents around Bandra, Khar and Santa Cruz. And we hope that by these baby steps we as a community are moving toward fostering strong social and mental health and adopting the right attitude to help save our environment. Francesca Mascarenhas Valladares
BandraBuzz CREATING COMMUNITY CONNECT
We are a local newspaper looking for experienced & interns journalists to join our team in a freelance capacity If you are a local journalist with a strong knowledge of Bandra & Khar, an interest in community news & lots of ideas for stories that you think will appeal to our readers, please drop us a line at news@bandrabuzz.com today!
03
04
NEWS
BANDRA BUZZ | AUGUST 2020
Workbay: Bandra’s Boutique Co-Working Haven Bandra’s boutique co-working space, ‘Workbay’ demonstrates the perfect amalgamation of modern design with a distinctive sense of earthy ergonomics. Unlike the frigid, concrete environment of mass co-working silos, Workbay gracefully mirrors Bandra’s unique architectural heritage. The outdoor garden space is delightful and makes for a grand entrance, or a relaxing break zone when rattled with work; while the gable roof gently nestles the entire structure in harmony with its surroundings. Spread across a total area of 2,500 sq feet, the two-tiered, that is the ground floor plus basement co-working space has been designed to cater to individual or bespoke requirements, and more importantly, the management takes proactive measures to make the experience seamless and comfortable while one is knee-deep in work. Offering a wide array of facilities such as the high-speed WiFi, a service that I utilised while in the premises. It transmitted with great efficiency and amply catered to the needs of the onsite patrons. Apart from the internet connectivity, one has access to the printer/scanner (number of cop-
ies are in proportion to the opted package, however, the management displays trust and an urge to build a bond with its customers by not maintaining a ledger for the same) a meeting/conference room (available on advance notice); service of beverages during work hours, an honorary mention must be given to Workbay’s speciality, their freshly brewed coffee that unapologetically outshines the drab, wafting vapours of the banally served instant coffee. Finally, the outdoor seating made for the perfect spot to sip on the brew and the in-house pantry area is equipped with the necessary appliances. Given the assortment of services rendered by the affable staff and management, Workbay definitely balances the costing with a degree of flexibility. They facilitate multiple needbased packages that starts from a Rs. 99/hour slot. One must acknowledge the gesture to include a beverage for even the most basic option seems generous and in a kindred spirit. The area floor plan is spacious and has multiple seating patterns, that range from a bay formation, where an entire team along with senior staffs’ cabin
Window Dedicated Desks
space is available, to a work station for a team of four or two, and individual work stations. For those who prefer to ride the tide alone, Workbay acts as the perfect buoy. Their onsite staff ensures you get a refreshing beverage, be it tea or coffee and supports you through business hours by providing assistance such as receiving or dispatching mail and so on. However, what is most engaging is the fact that the place has been accentuated and utilised to its maximum, while simultaneously balancing the element of warm bonhomie. The large windows provide a generous scale for light to filter through while the corners have been transformed into secluded standing booths in case one needs to address an urgent call. Equipped with a PowerPoint and an ancillary tabletop, spaces such as this truly validate the genuine drive and difference that the establishment has achieved. Taking the idiom seriously that ‘All work and no play makes Jack a dull boy’, Workbay also concerts on a weekly basis with keynote speakers and comedians alike to usher in a spirit of social creativity. These off-hour events also encourage social network-
Workbay is functioning at 50% strength as per Govt directives ing and bolsters one’s scope of opportunity to collaborate with like-minded professionals. However, at the present point in time, as per government directives, the co-working space is functioning at 50% strength while ensuring social distancing amongst the patrons. Given the current scenario, Workbay is constantly upgrading the furniture and fixtures to aggregate a safer workspace. With two branches, one based in Santacruz, launched in 2015
Solo Boss Cabins
followed with the Bandra site which was launched in 2018, Workbay has proven to be more than just a co-working space provider. Their bespoke approach combined with a determined infrastructure enables their patrons to maximise their potential and also facilitates their journey towards success, be it through direct services or by sharing a relevant reference contact on the nick of time. Sidhant Nayangara
Team Rooms
Meeting Room
WE ARE INTERESTED IN BUYING PHYSICAL, DEMAT, UNLISTED & DELISTED SHARES ALL OVER INDIA • Purchase of both Physical and Demat Shares • Process of Duplicate Shares which have been lost or misplaced • Transfer of Shares in Demat • IEPF A/C Share’s
• Any kind of shares which are freezed by the company for any reasons will also help in releasing those shares (Physical and Demat both) • (*New Service*) Single Deceased Shares • Probate and Succession Services
Ph.: 2805 4730, 2805 5719, 2865 5805 / 09, 2866 1092 | Mobile: +91-96193 15362 | Email: investmenth07@rediffmail.com InvestmentHouse App now on Play Store
BANDRA BUZZ | AUGUST 2020
NEWS
05
Poor & Marginalised Citizens are legally Entitled to Get Lawyers Free of Cost
Mumbai District and Suburban Legal Services Authority near Bandra Talao provides free legal aid to the poorer and weaker section of the society Do you all know our Constitution of India provide free legal aid to the poorer and weaker section of the society? The simple answer to this by most of the people is “NO”. Yes, many of the citizens are not aware of this right which is guaranteed under Article 39-A of the Constitution of India. It provides for free legal aid to the poor and weaker sections of the society, to promote justice on the basis of equal opportunity. Free legal aid is also a fundamental right under Article 21 of the Constitution of India. Ensuring legal aid to everyone is necessary for ensuring substantive equality. In pursuant to this in 1987, the ‘Act’ was enacted by Parliament. On 9th November 1995, the Act came into enforcement. It took almost 8 years for its enforcement and to establish a nationwide uniform network for providing free and competent legal services to the weaker sections of the society. Who is entitled to legal aid? According to Section 12 of the Legal Services Authorities Act, the following categories of people are entitled to free legal services: » A member of a Scheduled Caste or Scheduled Tribe; » A victim of trafficking in human beings or begar as referred to in Article 23 of the Constitution; » A woman or a child; » A mentally ill or otherwise disabled person; » A person under circumstances of undeserved want such as being a victim of a mass disaster, ethnic violence, caste atrocity, flood, drought, earthquake or industrial disaster; or » An industrial workman
» in custody, including protective custody; » Facing a charge which might result in imprisonment; » Unable to engage a lawyer and secure legal services on account of reasons such as poverty, indigence, and incommunicado situation; » In cases of great public importance; » Special cases considered » Deserving of legal services. Any citizen of India whose case is before a Court, other than the Supreme Court, and whose annual income from all sources does not exceed *Rs. 3,00,000/- shall be entitled to legal services. Free legal services include free legal aid in civil and criminal matters for those poor and marginalised people who cannot afford the services of a lawyer for the conduct of a case or a legal proceeding in any court, tribunal or before an authority. For women, child and under trials advocate is provided free of cost. Provision of free legal aid may include: » Representation by an advocate in legal proceedings. » Preparation of pleadings, memo of appeal, a paper book including printing and translation of documents in legal proceedings; » Drafting of legal documents, special leave petition etc.; » Rendering of any service in the conduct of any case or other legal proceeding before any court or other authority or tribunal and; » Giving advice on any legal matter. The person can refer https://nalsa.gov.in/ website or State Legal Services website i.e. https://legalservices.maharashtra.gov.in/ if he/she needs assistance for free legal aid and can make an application online. More-
over, do you all know that there is an office of Mumbai District and Suburban Legal Services Authority near Bandra Talao and behind LIC Office, High Peak Apartment, Old Bandra Court, S.V. Road, Bandra West, Mumbai - 400050. If any citizen has any legal issue can approach the authorities in the said office. Not only this, in fact, there is College who offer free legal aid which is a prominent College i.e. K. C. Law College, Dinshaw Vacha Road, Mumbai which is lo-
Fitness Trainer
cated at Churchgate and had also received Maharashtra Government grant for the purpose of legal aid. A common man can approach the institution any time for free legal aid services on any matter whether civil or criminal. At last, I would say utilise such facilities from the authorities which are really beneficial for society. Please do not hesitate because the motto of legal aid is Justice is meant for everyone. Megna Devkar
An initiative of Bandra Buzz newspaper
Nutritionist Cook Dancer
Singer
Hair Stylist
Comedian
Life Coach
Gardener
Do you feel like your talents are stuck in a rut amid COVID-19? Showcase your talents as we believe that every Bandraite has a talent which could inspire someone during this difficult time.
What do you need to do?
Record your talents at home in a 2 mins. video & WhatsApp it to 9820783686 or 9920299787. Videos will be reviewed and will then be published on our Website and Social Media Platforms.
06
NEWS
BANDRA BUZZ | AUGUST 2020
Sharon Menezes wipe away lockdown blues with her rendition of ‘Kaisi Paheli Zindagani’ Sharon Menezes, former Coordinator of BMM at Smt. MMK College of Commerce & Economics for nine years and a professional singer from Mumbai sang a beautiful rendition of “Kaisi Paheli Zindagani” to describe the current situation of the society. Series of pictures are used to show the sufferings of this pandemic. It is a satire video which will definitely put a smile on your face & at the same time makes you feel relatable every second. The video was uploaded on 2nd July 2020 on her YouTube channel & it was recorded on an iPhone with a backing track in the background.
Menezes has been singing professionally for a long time with various music bands & has done many live shows. According to her the lyrics of the ‘’Kaisi Paheli Zindagani’’ symbolizes the things changed due to lockdown & also shows how people’s lives have been affected. It portrays the struggle of the migrating labours & the downfall of the economy too. She has plans to make more videos like this & upload it on YouTube and Instagram. Menezes says, “The lockdown is helping me record more songs because I have more time in my hand.
This pandemic has given us a break to work on our talents and skills. We were really busy earlier in our day-to-day life and we didn’t have much time to reflect our talent” Menezes started doing live gigs around the town at a young age & soon became a recognized singer that the audience enjoys. She’s also a keyboardist & is inspired by singers like Ella Fitzgerald & Sara Watkins. She wants to convey to all the young singers,” Practice a lot, do experiment with your music, just have fun and stay safe”. Rahul Krishnan
The New Normal We all love a good hashtag, and this one has been doing the rounds ever since the announcement of the lifting of lockdown. The whole world is slowly changing - from online classes to social distancing - and we’re getting the hang of fitting into this new space. Being shut indoors without anything available beyond essentials has given most of us a new outlook on life. We’ve been forced to slow down, look around ourselves, and re-evaluate all that we thought we held dear. We’ve learned to look at situations differently, and this has made us reconsider everything from our closest relationships to our shopping habits. The ‘new normal’ comes with some great advantages - thanks to the forced slow down. Gone are the days when we woke up at seven am to head to work, returning home only after nine o’clock at night. We no longer need the expensive formal wear that costs us plenty in laundry and ironing and makes us feel stiff and uncomfortable. Our commuting costs are down, and we’re saving money by not having to buy canteen or cafeteria food. In fact, the way we eat has completely changed in the
last few months. We’ve gone from a heavy dependence on Swiggy, Zomato and eating out to making food from scratch. We make our pizzas, cook our biryani and bake our bread. We’ve taken a leaf out of the pages of our grandparents’ book, where every meal was home-cooked and restaurants were for special occasions like engagements and marriages. Working from home has given us the chance to talk, really talk, to the people in our lives. The hurried conversations at the end of an exhausting workday have been replaced with a long heart to heart talks. The expensive presents bought to compensate for the lack of time are no longer necessary. With this has come a re-evaluation of some of our relationships. It’s surprising how much incompatibility a lack of time can cover up! The friend who we actually don’t share the same values with; the spouse to whom we have nothing to say. A lot of people have come to the uncomfortable conclusion that they aren’t in sync with their partner at all. Others have realised that their relationships can withstand anything. Despite all this time with peo-
ple, we have been cut off socially in a number of ways. There are no more office chats with colleagues, no dinners with friends, no celebrations with extended family. In this masked up, keep your distance world, even the regular human contact we have is limited. For those of us who live alone, the silence can be unsettling & unnerving. No amount of Netflix & YouTube can disguise a lack of comfort with yourself. As our country opens up again, challenges face us from
all sides. The shaky economy was only waiting for something like Covid-19 to push it over the edge. Companies are closing. Bonuses are negligible. Heck, if you still have a job at the end of this year, you’ll be one of the lucky ones. From instant gratification & fast fashion, we have to make the move towards saving up even for the smaller things. We have to learn to use & repair our things & then use them some more. Chinese goods may be cheap, but that money you spend lines the pock-
ets of those who kill our brave soldiers on our country’s borders. Is that a cause you want to support? We must learn how to scale back in terms of our possessions, & consume a lot less. With each new sunrise, our world is being reshaped inexorably. Do we have it in us to face it & conquer, or will we refuse to adapt & be crushed? This hashtag will do the rounds of social media, only to vanish into oblivion. What about us? Maryanne Pereira
BANDRA BUZZ | AUGUST 2020
NEWS
07
The Man behind the Music...Presenting Carlton Braganza His online show, Jukebox Jammies, has been the ray of hope to many during the lockdown. With a successful run of over five months now, it has people glued to Facebook & YouTube, night after night. But all of this information is readily available… We decided to get to the heart of the man to know what he is all about! You’ve been settled in Bangalore for the longest time but how much of Bandra is still in you? I don’t think you can take Bandra out of anybody! I left home when I was about 18. But I always came back to Bandra, where my family is. I sailed for 7 years & then got married & we moved to Bangalore, which became home. So yes in terms of not physically being there it’s been many years but my heart & soul is still there. It’s a big part of who & what I am & what has influenced me. You can take the boy out of Bandra but you can’t take Bandra out of the boy. Everybody writes about your achievements but we want to know about the guy from Bandra! Yes, I understand… I started this show & it evolved as things that influenced me, meant something to me, things that I grew up with – the church, the zonals, school & friends. It has now become a production & has evolved into a show & probably there’s not too much focus on those elements. But very clearly, in those first 50-odd episodes, I did one on the choir, one on Little Flower, one on the Zonals… So those are things that are still very connected to me & what has influenced me, my music… Did you train formally in music? I never went for an outside class other than school & the zonals… Was Heather D’Souza a big influence on you & did you train with her? Trained in the sense to do with the children’s choir, school & the zonals – not classes in particular; but yes, Heather was the only influence on me at that time. It was pretty much Heather everywhere. What are some of your best memories of your school, St. Theresa’s? I was always running to school since I had to be there at 7.00 am! (Laughs) Two bells were rung & I always heard the first one on the way so I’d run to make it in time for the second! I remember most of my teachers & I have now also reconnected with a lot of the old boys. I still have some friends who
have remained a constant in my life so yes, good memories all round. What about college? I did Junior College at National College for two years, where I studied electronics & got into engineering. At the same time I got into St. Xavier’s where I did a year of maths, stats & eco. And then into the Merchant Navy – all simultaneously! I left on that first ship when I was 18, but I knew when I got there that it wasn’t my kind of thing… I did it because it was a good career, good money… It kind of set the path for me to get away & do what I wanted to do later. All this was so far removed from your actual passion – music! Yes, it really was far removed even from the kind of people I sailed with. I did have a couple of Philipino dudes who were musically inclined & they thought I was very cool… (Laughs) But when I was on leave I would come home & do a concert or two with the Stopgaps or Heather. Does it make you feel good that you could give so many music artistes a platform at Opus later? Actually, that is my thing. I love to do that & am doing that even now. A lot of people who’ve come on the show have blossomed into shows of their own; similar to what was done at Opus. You were a trailblazer with Opus & now with Jukebox Jammies. The lockdown show seems so different to your live shows You’re right in a sense. But in another sense, it is very similar to what we did back there. It’s just taking an on-ground property & propping it online – it’s the same platform, the same kind of people, the same kind of shows. It’s just that the mindset has changed to being an online platform. Yes, we don’t have the interaction of a live audience but we do have a buzzing chat section. You’re normally very reticent to speak about yourself as a person… Yes, I am… I believe that what you do should speak for who you are. And if you’re good at what you do you will anyway cut through the clutter. What keeps you grounded – from fame going to your head? I think I’ve seen a lot & it’s being true to yourself at the end of the day & not propping it too much. I’m a very different kind of guy. There’s a Jannis Joplin line that res-
onates a lot with me: ‘every night I make love to 25000 people & then I go home alone…’ – I find my hiding place. The world thinks I’m that kind of person which I’m really not. I love the interaction of a live audience or an online gig, the adulation but at the end of the day, I’m more of a recluse! People don’t see that side; I don’t let them see it but it’s there. I’m quite a multiple personality. (Laughs)
I have been talking with the St. Andrews people (who as you know have zonals which include all Bandra parishes) & suggested that since zonals are not happening on ground this year, let’s try & do something online. It doesn’t necessarily have to be restricted to Bandra but those who have been associated with Bandra for years. It could go national or even global… Let’s see what happens.
Do you make a conscious difference when you do a show for Canada, Australia or any other country? In terms of the people I know there I will definitely give them a shout out but in terms of curating a show for a particular region, no – I don’t do that. But when curating a show (even on ground) for a particular genre or occasion or brand, we’ve got Fireball which is different from Nirvana which is different from a charity gig or a St. Xavier’s alumni…Every event takes a different mind-set, programming or approach. A wedding sangeet will have Bollywood & you should be able to deliver on that front. Or you can have a cigar & malt evening or a jazz evening… What I like about what I do is that I’m not restricted to a genre. I’d like to think I can swing from swing to country to even new age music. That is something that excites me. It’s a double-edged sword actually – people don’t take you seriously in a particular genre. They would look at me & say ‘okay he sings classical music but I won’t get him because he also does party stuff’’. But it works for me because I wouldn’t want to be labelled as a one-trick homie.
What are your feelings when you come to the city & Bandra? To me Bandra is still Bandra…I still like to walk down Perry Road & look at some of the old houses. I know it’s jammed with traffic & people say you can’t live here anymore but for me, it’s still Bandra. When I am there it’s a great feeling – of family, food, friends, going to one’s gym for tongue roast or Janta for a beer. There are things which you just cannot get out of your system.
Your zonal show got to everyone in Bandra since it reconnected people. How did you feel while doing that show? Oh, I loved doing it. In fact, there’s talk of me doing some zonal showcasing online.
Your brother Royston & you are so diverse in terms of the fields you are in. What is your strongest connect/bonding point with him? I think we both understand where we are coming from. He doesn’t shove his thoughts & principles down my throat & nor do I. We may not necessarily approve of each other all the time but the motto is: if it works for you, it should be good. That’s the way I approach it & he does too. It’s more a question of it’s your life & you know what you need to do & if you need me I am there – and vice versa – he will be there for me. What would you say is the strongest value your mum, Jane Braganza, has imbibed in you? It’s loyalty for sure and selflessness for family. Virgina Vacha
08
NEWS
BANDRA BUZZ | AUGUST 2020
Here is how Bandra celebrated Ganesh Chaturthi amidst Lockdown 4.0
Saachi Ramchandani’s Quarantine & Chill Ganpati decoration theme Mumbai might have seen a subdued & low-key Ganesh Chaturthi but excitement amongst all of us has remained the same. This pandemic period has explored numerous unknown talents that were hidden within us for so many years. Some have also invaded knacks to decorate & sculpt Ganesh Idols in an extraordinary yet eco-friendly way. Meet Saachi Ramchandani & her family who have brought Lord Ganesha in their home from ever since she was born. Every year they figure out new & innovative ways to decorate Ganesh Idols & this year they celebrated with ‘Quarantine & Chill’ theme. Saachi says, ‘I was already attached to the whole concept & started giving a lot of thought & effort into it. It has been a very bad year for everyone, in terms of every-
Sunny Ramani terracotta Ganesh idol
thing happening, so instead of looking at the negative aspects, I did the decor with everything positive that each family experienced in some way. Because this year was about binging on Netflix, reconnecting with friends over video calls, baking banana bread & Lotus Biscoff, making Dalgona coffee, working out at home & spending quality time with family by doing household chores together; I gave a thought to this entire concept & illustrated the entire lockdown period in a small décor’. Here are a few tips for maintaining Chocolate Ganesh Idols: - Place the idol on Sandali & then place the Sandali in a plate of water to avoid insects, particularly ants. - Do not apply any tikka as the can be consumed by people.
Meet Sunny Ramani who sculpted terracotta Ganesh Idol along with his 3-yearold daughter. Many mastered news skills amid this pandemic & so did Sunny Ramani. Sunny learned idol sculpting techniques on YouTube during the lockdown & later transformed his art into reality. In a bid to secure the environment he used terracotta clay which dissolves in water easily. His 3-year-old daughter also helped him in this. The idol was immersed in a bucket & the water was later used for plants. Sunny says, ‘This year due to the pandemic I decided to make my own idol & also indulge my daughter in it as a learning process for her. This made me realize that this is way is much better than buying idols. This is the most unique thing as I have never done this before. It felt so good to give something to the environment with-
Kyeisha made an eco-friendly Ganpati out polluting it.’ Meet ten-year-old Kyeisha Almeida who made an eco-friendly Ganpati this year. Kyeisha says, “I made this model of Lord Ganesha with two types of clay mix that came in a box. I had to mix, knead & mould the clay till it became soft, I then formed & shaped the different parts of the Ganesha’s body with my hands & after that, I placed the different parts very carefully to make the shape of the idol of Ganpati. Dad helped me with the instructions & to adjust & place the parts properly. Then I kept the idol to dry for a few hours & when it was dry, I painted it. This was my first attempt & I am pleased with the finished model & with myself.” Shraddhaa Chimbaikar
Up to
SAVE TAX ELSS K SUN
INVESTMENTS
1.5 Lacs U/S 80C in
EQUITY LINKED SAVING SCHEME IN MUTUAL FUNDS
MUTUAL FUNDS
1.5 LACS INVESTED in 2002 FOR 15 YEARS TAX STATUS ON RETURN
RETURN OF 1.5 LACS
8.0%
Tax Free
4,75,800/-*
5 Years
8.0%
Taxable
4,75,800/-*
BANK FD
5 Years
7.0%
Taxable
4,13,800/-*
ELSS*
3 Years
22.54%
Redemption Redemptionafter after31years, year, the long-term capital gains (LTCG) up to to Rs Rs 11 are are tax tax free free (LTCG)up LTCG in excess of Rs 1 lakh is taxed @ 10%
INVESTMENT OPTION
LOCK-IN PPERIOD
PPF
15 Years
NSC
RETURN CAGR P.A.
31,63,500/-
* Returns as on 30th Nov., 2002 - 30the Nov., 2017. ** Average of 15 ELSS Funds
Shop No. 8-C, Hari Market, 3rd Rd, Near Khar Stn. Khar (W), Mumbai - 400052. Tel : 022 - 26000298/9819890761 Email : ksuninvestments@gmail.com Web: www.ksun.in
Mutual fund investment are subject to market risk. Please read scheme related documents carefully before investing.
PHAT Sweet Treats offers an assortment of Customised Cakes, Cupcakes, Twix Bar Pie and Seasonal Ice-Creams Call / WhatsApp: +91-9820091631 Facebook: PHAT Sweet Treats | Instagram: phat_sweet_treats
BANDRA BUZZ | AUGUST 2020
NEWS
09
Boys who Bake Keegan started his home-based He would watch her closely and bakery under challenging cir- try and help in whichever way he cumstances, the lockdown hadn’t could, soon it became more like been kind but that wasn’t going a hobby and stress buster rather to stop him. Taking baby steps he than being a chore. Every weekend you began ‘Keegan’s Konfections’ will find new items putting all his culinary on Keegan’s menu experience and everythat will keep you thing that he had going back for learnt into action. more. For him, customAnd it is this ised cakes with appreciation and intricate decor, happy customers traditional sweets that gives him the for Christmas & confidence to conEaster are what he tinue to diversify his specialised in. But menu and keep bakafter becoming a cerRicotta Spinach tified pastry chef in Corn Cheese Bagels ing. I love homemade 2019 he walked into a world of international desserts breads so his menu that boasts and various types of bread. So he of focaccia, brioche, bagels is althought now was his chance to let ready inviting. He also has a variety of quichpeople have a taste of a variety of sweet and savoury baked goodies es and sliders as well but since they are only available on the straight from his kitchen. His earliest inspiration he re- weekend you will have to keep a members fondly was his grand- lookout for his weekly menu. And of course, he hasn’t given mother who was always cooking and baking for him and his sister. up on his first love, confection-
Herb Foccacia is one of Keegan Hanif’s best seller
Riki and Karan Kapoor run a family business Riki’s Brothers Baking Crazy ary, where the name of his week- brother Karan is in Sales. Howevend pop up comes from. One bite er, this uneventful lockdown acinto a chocolate doughnut and I cidentally brought them together professionally. While already want to know what’s experimenting on next week’s in the kitchlist. The cinen they both namon rolls decided to sit tall and jump on cylindrical board toin shape gether & as opposed start RBBC to the flat with an aim buns we’re to create unforused to and are filled with flavour in Chicken & Cheese gettable moments together through food. every bite. Profiteroles They place great imBest Sellers: Ricotta Spinach Corn Cheese Bagels & portance on client relationships & offer personalised services Herb Foccacia Safety & Hygiene: He follows “You think it, we bake it!” Riki comes from over 30 years all protocols of sanitisation and of professional experience where safeguarding himself. he’s worked at various 5-star hotels in Mumbai, taught various RBBC: Here’s a crazy concoction for you food & pastry courses at reputed to try out, RBBC, “Riki’s Broth- colleges & also ran a successful ers Baking Crazy”, a family run bake shop in Dubai for 7 years. business that has been blessed He is now part-owner of his with 3 generations of catering own patisserie in Mum& baking experience. Recipes bai. Whereas Karan is handed down over generations & just beginning his an ingrained passion for baking, culinary jourthese brothers Riki & Karan seem ney & the 2 to have been born with flour on like-minded innovative their fingers. The 2 of them have full-time b r o t h who alternate careers (before the pan- ers demic); Riki has a successful pa- have always tisserie in Thane & his younger shared a passion
for good food have now started baking together. An exceptional range of high-quality savouries, cakes & confectionery with attention to detail & a passion for perfection is what they hope will set them apart. Who doesn’t love a good profiterole or two, but when you have one with a delicious filling of chicken & cheese then you’re in for a savoury surprise. Their menu is wide & in a sense limitless, from savoury treats of sandwiches & quiche to sweeter indulgences of cheesecake, mousse & traditional thali cake, you can literally ask them to bake anything off the menu as well. Best Sellers: Savoury profiteroles, Chocolate Cheesecake Safety & Hygiene: They follow all protocols of sanitisation & safeguarding themselves. Francesca Valladares Pic Credit: Jordana Quadros
Bandra Buzz is seeking honest community feedback for what our newspaper is doing well and in what areas we can improve. Email us your feedback on news@bandrabuzz.com
Belgian Chocolate Cake
10
NEWS
BANDRA BUZZ | AUGUST 2020
Lockdown Education Initiative by SJP
www.spearheadlive.com
RAIN POWER CUT
The lockdown forced upon us due to this global pandemic had turned everyone’s lives upside down and in April and May of this year many influential people tried their best to help the less fortunate by donating food etc. Savio John Pereira and their team decided the best way to give back would be to teach their community a new skill or upgrade their old ones. And so through a Lockdown Education Initiative Savio conducted a 6-week hairdressing course online where he personally taught and demonstrated various haircuts etc in June and July. The 2nd edition by The Savio John Pereira Online Academy brings together the Hair & Beauty Industries and will focus on Professional Makeup & Beauty by 5 celebrated Makeup Artists; Cherag Bambboat (Cherag’s Magical Makeovers), Natasha Dhody (Natasha Dhody Makeup Academy), Shraddha Inder Mehta, Amrita Kalynapur and Abhilasha Singh (based in USA) curated by Savio John Pereira.
These experts are known for their avant-garde work in the Beauty Industry and have carefully put together an ‘allyou-should-know’ course about professional makeup as well as Personal and Self Makeup application and techniques. The course will be held on an online platform via a private account and will run for 5 weeks with 30 specially designed videos, 30 Live QnA sessions and as a bonus to all, Savio and the SJP Artistic Team of professionals will also be conducting Hairstyling Masterclasses. This 5-week online course in Professional Makeup & Hairstyling is being offered to you at a registration fee of INR 1950/- only to be able to reach out to all those looking to start a new career, explore a new passion or upgrade their skills. The registration fee is minimal to encourage more people to enrol and benefit in some way from this course encouraging people to help each other grow. For enrolments please contact +91 9821919161. Francesca Valladares
Are you looking to study, work or get residence in New Zealand Do you need advise on a partnership or visitor visa. Are you looking to lodge and ESWV, W2R, SMC or business application. Any concerns raised on character or medicals? Need to make a section 61 request?
NO SPEED CUT
REGULAR INTERNET BREAKDOWNS?? WORLD’S FASTEST INTERNET TECHNOLOGY, GPON DOES NOT RELY ON ELECTRICALLY POWERED SWITCHES.
Get your visa done right the first time Cynthia has 16 years immigration experience having worked as: Immigration Officer - Immigration New Zealand Academic Tutor-Diploma in Immigration Advice Trustee - Auckland Regional Migrant Services Contact Cynthia Sengupta in New Zealand
All About Immigration Limited
12 Pioneer Street, Henderson, Auckland Tel: +64 9 8354274 Mobile & Whatsapp +64 210486721 Email: aailcynthia@gmail.com Website: www.allaboutimmigration.co.nz
GPON is an access method that provides fibre connectivity (currently the fastest fixed line medium) using point-to-multipoint technology. Its defining feature is that it uses passive splitters in the fibre network so that a single fibre line from the service provider can deliver connectivity to multiple premises. Whereas an active Ethernet network uses physical, electrically powered switches that open and close to send signals to different premises, GPON does not rely on electrically powered switches.
TRULY UNLIMITED PLANS
40 MBPS
@ JUST
999/-
10 MBPS
@ JUST
399/-
CALL +91-7506359444 FOR MORE PLANS IAA Licence No. 201600824
GOA I NASIK I AURANGABAD I MUMBAI
BANDRA BUZZ | AUGUST 2020
NEWS
11
Healthy Alternatives to Junk Food for Kids We need to start having a very holistic approach towards the health of our children. Now, it’s not just middle-aged people or elderly people who come to us, it’s children with juvenile diabetes, heart problems, obesity issues, young girls with PCOS, children with attention deficit disorders too. Yes, there are certain health conditions children are born with and many of them are genetic, but there are also innumerable children who have acquired it through a faulty lifestyle. We need to put the right food into our kid’s bodies. Processed and junk food is designed to get them addicted to it. Most of the food company spend billions and billions of dollars for that perfect recipe to get your brain addicted and generate cravings which you cannot fight and the junk food wins over your willpower. So, if that’s happening to us as adults, why not kids who have not yet completely developed all of their motor and sensory skills. They are going through an addiction process that we have created. The choices that we make for our children are responsible for everything that our children go through. Keeping that in mind and the change we as adults need to drive to the younger generation, here are some healthy, nutritious and delectable options for kids in place of junk and processed. Pizza Dough Ingredient: · 1 cup amaranth flour/jowar flour/ragi flour to add 2 tbsp of banana flour too · ¼ cup arrowroot powder optional · ¼ cup almond or cashew flour · ½-¾ cup warm non- dairy milk · ½ tsp salt, herbs, pepper · 1 tbsp ground flax Method: For Pizza Base 1. Mix everything to make a dough. Keep aside covered for half an hour. 2. Roll out the base of the pizza like the way you would roll out the roti/flatbread. 3. Prick it so it does not fluff while cooking. 4. Bake it for about 10 min at 180 deg C in the oven or roast lightly on tawa/pan. Cashew Cheese/Almond Milk Cheese (Makes 2 cups) Ingredients: · 2 litres Almond milk /cashew milk · 1/3 cup lemon juice (from 1 1/2 to 2 lemons) · 1 teaspoon salt, optional Method: 1. Warm the milk, the milk will get foamy and start to steam; remove it from heat if it starts to boil. 2. Add the lemon juice and salt.
3. Remove the milk from heat. 4. Pour in the lemon juice. 5. Let the milk sit for 10 minutes. 6. Let the pot of milk sit undisturbed for 10 minutes. 7. After this time, the milk should have separated into clumps of milky white curds and thin, watery, yellow-coloured whey — dip your slotted spoon into the mix to check. 8. If you still see a lot of un-separated milk, add another tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar and wait a few more minutes. 9. Strain the curds: Set a strainer over a bowl and line the strainer with a muslin cloth. 10. Scoop the big curds out of the pot with a slotted spoon and transfer them to the strainer. 11. Pour the remaining curds and the whey through the strainer. 12. Drain the curds for 10 to 60 minutes. 13. Let the ricotta drain for 10 to 60 minutes, depending on how wet or dry you prefer your ricotta. 14. If the ricotta becomes too dry, you can also stir some of the whey back in before using or storing it. 15. Use or store the ricotta. 16. Fresh ricotta can be used right away or refrigerated in an airtight container for up to a week.
and freeze for 4-6 hours. And your homemade dairy and sugar-free ice-cream is ready! 3. The wait is the hardest part.
· 1 tsp pure vanilla extract · 1/2 tsp sea salt · 2 -3 tbsp cacao powder · 2-3 tsp organic honey
Healthy Waffles Ingredients: · 3 tablespoons ground flax or chia seed + 6 tablespoons water or 1 egg · 3 cups Roasted groats oat flour or Wheat flour (add little rice flour too if using wheat) · 1-2 teaspoons cinnamon · 1 teaspoon salt · 1 and 1/2 cups A2 milk or Almond milk or water · 4 tablespoons organic honey · 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract · 1/4 cup coconut oil
Method: 1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees and add hazelnuts to a baking sheet in a single layer. 2. If raw, roast for a total of 12-15 minutes. If already roasted, roast for 8-10 minutes just to warm the natural oils and loosen the skin. This will make it easier to blend into butter. 3. Remove from oven and let cool slightly. Then transfer to a large kitchen towel and use your hands to roll the nuts around and remove most of the skins. 4. You want to get as much as possible off because it yields a creamier Nutella. But it doesn’t have to be perfect! 5. Leaving excess skin behind, add hazelnuts to a food processor or high-speed blender. Blend on low until a butter is formed – about 8-10 minutes total – scraping down sides as needed. 6. Once the hazelnut butter is creamy and smooth, add the cacao, vanilla and salt and blend well. 7. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed, adding more salt or vanilla if desired. 8. Transfer to a clean jar and store at room temperature for everyday use for 2-3 weeks or more.
Summer treat Dairy-free ice cream Ingredients: · 3 cups dairy-free milk (coconut, almond). · 1/3-1/2 cup Medjool dates (soaked in warm and pureed) · Flavouring to taste (pure vanilla extract, cinnamon, cacao powder) · Add-ins of choice (fruit cut into pieces, cacao nibs, nuts or seeds)
Method: 1. In a small bowl, add ground flaxseed and water. Stir combine then set aside to thicken. 2. In a large bowl, add oat flour or wheat flour cinnamon and salt. 3. Whisk to combine and set aside. 4. In a measuring cup, combine the milk/ water. 5. Add the organic honey and pure vanilla extract. 6. In a separate deep bowl or cup, add the coconut oil and a small amount of the milk mixture. 7. Whisk until smooth, adding more of the milk as needed. 8. To the bowl with the flour, add the flax mixture, the oil and remaining milk mixture. 9. Stir until evenly combined, assuring there aren’t any clumps of flour, then set aside while you warm the waffle maker. 10. The batter should rest for about 5 minutes before using. 11. This helps it thicken a bit; however, you don’t want it to sit too long or else the waffles will turn out denser. 12. Distribute about 1/4 cup for each waffle (this will vary depending on your waffle maker) and cook until golden and crispy. 13. Serve warm with organic honey and chopped fruits.
Method: 1. All you need is a good blender. 2. Blend all the ingredients until creamy, place it in a deep pan or ice-cream moulds
Home-made Nutella (Makes 2 cups, Stays fresh for 2 weeks) Ingredients: · 3 cups raw or roasted unsalted hazelnuts
FOR PIZZA SAUCE: Ingredients: · 2 tomatoes (blanches and skinned) · 1 small onion (finely chopped) · 4-5 garlic cloves (finely chopped) · 1 tsp oregano · ½ tsp jaggery powder · Pink salt to taste · Chilli flakes to taste · 2 tsp unrefined cold-pressed oil Method: 1. In a vessel heat oil, add onions and garlic and sauté till cooked well. 2. Add tomato puree and bring to boil. 3. Let it simmer till it thickens. 4. Once thickened add all the spices and herbs and mix well. 5. Sauce is ready.
NOTE: Just know the more liquid sweetener (honey) you add, the firmer/stiffer the Nutella will get, so add sparingly. Hash Brown Treats Ingredients: · 1 sweet potato mashed · 1 onion grated · 1 tsp fennel powder · 1 tsp chilli flakes · 2 tbsp rice flour · 1 tsp oregano · Salt to taste · Coconut oil Method: 1. In a pan add the ingredients and cook in slow flame. 2. Close gas. 3. Once cool make like discs using hands. 4. Again, cook in a pan in slow gas till golden brown in colour. Luke Coutinho
12
NEWS
BANDRA BUZZ | AUGUST 2020
Classic Bandra Fake News The bane of social media is perhaps the pandemic known as Fake News. Whether intentional or not, we see fake news spread faster than real news. And once it catches on, it is hard to set things right, as it tends to cross over and become truth. Interestingly enough, there are fake news items and photos related to Bandra’s history and heritage as well. A set of black and white historical images of Bandra have been doing the rounds of social media over the past few years. Almost everyone connected to Bandra (and even those not connected) have probably received these. However, two images in this set not only do not belong to Bandra, but they are from opposite ends of the planet! And there have been endless arguments on Facebook and WhatsApp about them. The first of these two fake pictures professing to be of “Bandstand Bandra” shows a sandy beach and a gazebo, with a boardwalk, trees and people enjoying the beach. The terrain has absolutely no semblance with the rocky coast of Bandra. Still, people insist that this is Bandstand in colonial times. The truth, however, is that this is a photograph of Alki Beach Park in Seattle, Washington State; in the United States. It dates back to 1924. While the original image lies at the Washington State Historical Society, in Tacoma, Washington; its spread
The first fake photo claiming to be “Bandstand Bandra” and linking with Bandra can be perhaps linked to the time when it was published as part of an article in the Seattle Times, in 2004. This image seems to have been cherry-picked from there, perhaps simply due to the word “Bandstand” and added to the repertoire of images of Bandra. And so, from the pacific northwest of the United States, it became an image of Bandra West! The gullible among us swear that this is where the Bandstand Promenade in Bandra is today. The second of these fake images, interestingly enough, also claims to be that of
The other fake photo claiming to be “Bandstand Bandra”
The real photograph is that of Alki Beach Park in Seattle, USA; circa 1924
“Bandstand Bandra”. It shows a crowded street, with a car and a horse, and several people, some wearing hats. Well, the photograph is of “a” Bandstand, but not of the one in Bandra. This time around, the fake image comes from quite literally the other end of the world, from the city of Brisbane, in Australia. It is of Wynnum Central Beach, in Brisbane; and more specifically, of Wynnum Central Beach Bandstand. The photograph can be traced back to circa 1929. And as in the case of the first one, it looks nothing like the area near Bandra’s band-
The real photograph that is of the Wynnum Central Beach Bandstand in Brisbane, Australia; circa 1929
Frequent Advertising reaches your customers regardless of their Reading Habits Frequency builds awareness. Awareness builds familiarity. And familiarity builds trust. Conventional wisdom says your audience needs to be exposed to your ad 3+ times for it to sink in & build awareness. Advertising gets the best results overtime. Each ad builds on prior brand recognition.
stand. Still, some of the staunchest Bandraites swear that it does. Both these photographs are historical images that are close to a century old and originated in two corners of the earth. Yet, they have become bound to an urban legend that claims that they show Bandra of yesteryears. Unfortunately, most of us do not question the authenticity of information or images that are transmitted through social media, but rather take them as gospel truth. In the context of historical documentation and record-keeping, this can have a far-reaching effect. Images such as these, unfortunately, distort local history. Almost regrettably, both these images are now well entrenched not only on social media but also on other websites (a certain major travel website hosts these images too) that claim them to be of Bandra. While it is easy to click on the “forward” or “share” button, we should be certain of what we are spreading. Common sense should be applied before hitting “send”. For the virus of misinformation can be as lethal as a biological one. And though these pictures look great, they are not of Bandra. In a world of fakes, let us hope that at least nostalgia for Bandra remains real. Debasish Chakraverty
BandraBuzz creating communit
y connect since
July 2020 | Volume 11 Issue 7 | Published Monthly
| www.bandrabuzz.com
| To Advertise: Call
9820783686 or 9920299787
Bandra’s First Covid -19 Drive-Through Tes ting Centre
| 16 pages | Price: Rs. 5/-
Bandra’s first of its kind drive-throug h COVID-19 testing centre is now functional. The much-neede d facility has been made possible through the collaboration of Suburban Diagnostics & Executive Enclave. While the medical aspect is Suburban Diagnostics’ purview, the hotel managemen t has come on board as a location partner. The means to book an appointmen t is completely online & the process on ground takes less than 5 minutes. Once the appointment has been confirmed, a time slot is allotted. The entry point is through the gate on Dr Ambedkar road & the exit from the rear end on the 21st road. Started on 28th June, the drive centre has successfully conducted more than 450 tests so far. Since the pandemic, there have been many accounts as to how a crisis can be turned to work in one’s favour, be it China’s aggression towards its neighbours or India’s recent streak of arresting students Bandra’s first of its & activists. However, kind drive-through the conception of COVID-19 testing centre this through (virtually drive-through testing is now functional at supervised) self-care. centre is a unique Executive Enclave case. Since the crisis A road towards week later they had recovery. After another in this scenario recuperated. Although ful- they assumed week Therefore, crumed to work in quarantine, they despite the fact that and had specific in favour of the were cleared and symptoms overcome commuhe was very had well aware, nity. Rahul & Monish pertaining to the the virus. this step would infection, they still Rohra, Managing further hamwantDirectors of Executive ed to be certain. per his business Getting back to the he decided to engage Enclave had a crisis turning the crisis on the personal on thereafter started and its head, once back After a considerable front. On the 20th the Rohra brothers the amount of research of May, and frantic 2020 the duo began de- financial motivation. centre keeping aside cided to share their calling, they finally showing symptoms learnings. Another booked an otal of appointmen pivthe virus. They had role Rahul shared his in t the conception and at a drive-throug been on-ground experience & stated h centre. of the execution “As much since However, the hotel premises drive-through testing to get the test done as the physical was made available harm, the psythey had to played facility was chological for travel all the BMC & Police Personnel by Dr Anjali Chabria. way to South Mumbai. or fear aspect on COVID-19 duty. of the virus is also A family friend This of Rahul & This level of exposure was ironical because very dangerous. Monish, she was Due diligence & proved to be inimBandra being Banindeed a pillar following ical & as soon as dra, and given of support and the directives are they realized the the amenities it motivated necessary, them while at the turn in es, we didn’t leverag- out their through- same events, they quickly time permitting recovery. As a matter have a single centre took the necessary unrealistic fear of fact, she overwhelm as such. also referred steps & decided to Furthermore, this to them to their existing one’s thinking is self – isolate in the method is considered also redunhotel. many experts diag- dant. The by nostic partner They were in contact most effective way as one of the safest when Rahul mentioned with doctors & family to be prepared as well. he wanted that is through through video communicat The test results to do something testing & therefore cleared all doubts, ion & recovered for the good of we decided but on the community. the brighter side, to go ahead with His personal experience they were indeed the drive-throug on the get a test h model to for Bandra.” done was not pleasant and easy. Sidhant Nayangara
BandraBuzz CREATING COMMUNIT
Y CONNECT
Call 9820783686 or 9920299787 to place your ad today!
We are a local newspap er looking for experien & interns journalis ced ts to join our team in a freelance capacity If you are a local journalis t with a strong knowled an interest in commun ge of Bandra & Khar, ity news & lots of ideas appeal to our readers, for stories that you think will please drop us a line at news@bandrabu zz.com today!
2010
BANDRA BUZZ | AUGUST 2020
NEWS
Schedule for Novena & Feast Octave 2020 Masses during the Novena & Feast Octave will be relayed live on YouTube & Cable TV. The masses will remain available on YouTube. Keeping in mind the COVID-19 pandemic restrictions & the safety of all the devotees, the Basilica & Oratory will remain closed. NOVENA 4th - 12th September - Mass in English at 8 am daily FEAST & OCTAVE 13th -- 20th 20thSeptember September- -Mass MassininEnglish Englishatat8 8am am daily 13th daily 13th September September--10 10am ammass massininKonkani Konkani 13th 14th 14th September - 10 am for the and&Aged September - 10mass am mass for Sick the Sick Aged 15th September September--10 10am ammass massininKonkani Konkani 15th 16thSeptember September- -10 10am ammass massininMarathi Marathi 16th 17th September - 10 mass in Tamil 17th September - 10 amam mass in Tamil 18th 18thSeptember September- -10 10am ammass massin in Malayalam Malayalam 19thSeptember September--10 10am ammass massininGujarati Gujarati 19th 20thSeptember September- -10 10am ammass massininMarathi Marathi 20th Kindly note that the relay will begin 10 mins before the mass to give the devotees some time for silent prayer & veneration.
Happy Bandra Feast to you & your family on behalf of the entire Bandra Buzz newspaper team!
13
BANDRA BUZZ | AUGUST 2020 BUSINESS OPPORTUNITY Looking for honest, hardworking dynamic individuals to join my team. Remarkable company, fantastic products & unbelievable income. Call Sushil Punyarthi 98210 79832 & 98217 29832. COME (BOOK) "COME" by Joan Mary Pereira. A journey to our heavenly home. A book to gift, for 15-60 years at Christmas, Confirmations and Birthdays. Available Rs. 300/- Amazon (India), Kindle Ebooks or Call 90290 98873. COMPUTER CLASSES Computer Training - Open Source Software √ Learn Microsoft Office Suite (Word/PowerPoint/Excel) for personal & professional use. √ Learn Graphics/3D for students & adults. Training offered at your home or through online media. Call 98215 25921 or email us computertraining.os@gmail.com for more details! COOKING & BAKING CLASSES Learn Mughlai, Biryanis, Starters (Veg. & Non-Veg.), Chinese, Italian, Mexican, Thai, Cakes, Chocolates, Brownies, Desserts, Sandwiches and Salads from an Experienced Homechef in Bandra West (on Perry Cross Road) for over 12 years. Special discount for a group of 5 or more. Call 98213 10728 / 99300 46523 CORNED TONGUE Available, Delicious Buffalo Corned Tongue & Meat Loaf - Home made with best ingredients. No Home Delivery - Call 98203 00751 DANCE CLASSES Dances like the Waltz/Rumba/Jive/Chacha with Alvito Cabral. Learn Social Dancing! Easy and fun for absolute beginners. Whether you’re 20 years or 60 years, doesn’t matter! YOU’LL LOVE IT! No partner needed; Age - 20years+. WhatsApp Alvito on 98201 19553. Experience our class dance videos on www.facebook.com/alssocialdance/ and on Instagram @alvitocabral EVENT MANAGEMENT For Christenings, Birthdays, First Holy Communions, Engagements, Weddings / Anniversaries, Baby Showers, Corporate Events & Picnics contact Queen the Entertainist Elizabeth Carvalho 98928 30169 and 98206 25901. EXPANDABLE SHOE RACKS Sturdy stainless steel 2 tier shoe stand. Lightweight, portable, expandable & stackable. Comes in 1 & 2 footers. Expandable to 2 & 4 footers. Suitable for homes, offices, clinics, hospitals, wherever neatness desired. Price Rs 650 for 1 footers holds 6 pairs. Rs 1200 for 2 footers holds 12 pairs. Free Delivery Bandra, Khar, Santa Cruz, Mahim with assembly if required. Call 98198 40314
CLASSIFIEDS FLATS FOR SALE For sale in Lonavla. 2 bedroom semi-attached bungalow, clean and well maintained is on sale with furniture and fridge TV etc. Owner in Mumbai 9920219038, 9820947130. Last 3 flats available for immediate sale. O.C. received and ready possession only for Catholics. Easy bank loan. Three storey building with 7 flats only. Mountain view flats facing the Church. Two way highway touch. Direct local train service from Bandra to Boisar station. Call Oberoi 97681 32932 for further enquiries. FLATS ON RENT - WANTED Rented Flat, near Mt. Carmel Church, Bandra West - Budget 40K pm - Brokers Excuse - Call 98698 42767, 92220 0841. HOMEMADE FOOD Chicken / Mutton Gravy, Roast Tongue, Cutlets, Fish, Chilly Fry, Pork Sorpotel and Pork Vindaloo, Pulao and Roast. For home cooked hygienic Veg and Non-Veg Tiffins contact Mrs Xaverina D'souza on +91 91672 27296. HOMEMADE HAIR OILS Love Thy Strands brings to you a range of homemade hair oils that stops hair fall, promotes hair growth, nourishes the scalp fights dandruff, dryness and much more. Also good for babies, kids and men. To order you can WhatsApp at 98199 36855 or follow us on Instagram @lovethystrands. Avail offer - one 100ml at Rs. 300/- or two 100mls at Rs. 500/-. JOB VACANCY Progressive housing society seeks manager for handling accounts and day-to-day running of affairs. Knowledge of local laws and handling of staff is required. Part-time / Full time. Kindly mail us your resume to juneblossomschsltd@gmail.com KICKBOXING CLASSES Amit Lalwani’s Kickboxing, Muaythai and self defence for teenagers & adults at St Peters on Hill Road in Bandra (W), Mumbai 400050. Monday, Thursday & Saturday at 7pm. Call 84540 01235 / 98690 36872. KEYBOARD WORKSHOP Golden Rhythm. Summer keyboard workshops. Learn accompaniment techniques, chords and sight reading. 12 sessions. Batch 1: 1st - 30th April. Batch 2: 2nd - 31st May. Monday, Wednesday, Friday or Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday. Maximum 10 students. Private classes also available, contact Joshua Michael 9819705387. Golda Michael - 9920517127 Cost Rs 3000/-. St Joseph's Convent, Bandra (Primary), Mumbai 400050. Please bring your keyboard, music sheets will be provided.
15
LEARN TO EARN Computer courses (MKCL authorised learning centre), admissions open round the year. Basic, MSCIT/Klic, laptop / iPad / printer, LCD repairing courses (repairing done), tailoring & beautician courses. (stitching of ladies & gents outfits). Contact: 26006258 LOST PHYSICAL SHARES & DIVIDENDS Get doorstep personal service for your lost physical shares/dividends. Duplicate procedure and FIR & notary all in-house. We also offer services in insurance of cars/buildings/ mediclaim and other financial consulting services. B/34 Elco Arcade, Bandra (West) with prior appointment. Call 98211 72450. NURSERY Let your child develop his observation, general knowledge, social skills, writing and singing. Monday to Friday 10 am to 12 noon at B-10 Mount Nirmala Colony, St John the Baptist Road, Bandra West. Call Jean-Ann 97697 22593 / 75066 09236. OFFICE FOR SALE Office for sale at Khira Nagar in Santa Cruz (West). Located on the ground floor the office has a carpet area of 363 sq. ft. and also boasts of 2 cabins and 2 toilets and also comes with a commercial license from BMC. Contact Mr Gupta (owner) on 93235 72448 REASONABLE COST HEALTHCARE Clinics (Open all through the week): - Ayurveda Clinic with Panchakarma Theatre - Dental Clinic with specialities of Implantologist, Orthodontist, Endontist, Oral Pathologist, Paediatric Dentistry, Physiotherapy, Eye Clinic, Foot Spa & Reflexology, Apple Diagnostics Collection Centre. Contact: 26006258 REPAIR SERVICES Kwality service repair of washing machine, microwave, oven, fridge, LED tv, other electronics. Call 9820174984 or 9769324984. Amrit Bldg., opp. Foodhall, SantaCruz West SPANISH CLASSES Hispanic Horizons is an institute for teaching Spanish language. We have weekday & weekend courses suitable for both college students & working professionals. We are an accredited examination center to conduct international Spanish exams like DELE, DIE & specialized Spanish exams for business, tourism & medicine. We have a placement cell as well through which we help our students to get Spanish related jobs. No age limit. Vas Chambers building, 1st floor, Hill road, Bandra West. Call: 022-26409039 / 8082647938 or www.hispanic-horizons.org TUITIONS Marathi and Hindi Lady Tutor, for one-to-one tuition from Std II to V for IGCSE / ICSE / SSC medium at Chapel Road, Bandra West - Call : 9224707192
To Advertise in Bandra Buzz Call / WhatsApp 9820783686 or 9920299787
16
NEWS
BANDRA BUZZ | AUGUST 2020
Subscribe to Bandra Buzz and get it delivered to your doorstep!
We are reopening subscriptions for Bandra residents until 30th September. For those who wish to receive the latest print or digital edition kindly reach out to our Subscription team. Contact us today to start receiving your copy of Bandra Buzz 9372601241 subscribe@bandrabuzz.com