November2016

Corporate

November 2016 • VOLUME 5 • ISSUE 11 • ` 50

Thanjavur

cultural capital of Tamil Nadu

Jaipur

Paris of the east Under the redwoods in

San Francisco November 2016 | Corporate Outbound 1

Contents

28 Other Stories

Managing Editor: Anurag Gupta Editorial: Garima Singhal Marketing: Don Jose Creative: Raj Toppo Printed, Published & Owned by Anurag Gupta @ 348, Amarjyoti Layout, Domlur Bangalore - 560 071 Ph: +91 80 41224331 Email: corporateoutbound@gmail.com Printed at Cosmos Printers & Publishers, Wilson Garden, Bangalore - 560 027

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Aviation News

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Hospitality News

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The Hill District Club- Wayanad

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Jaipur- Paris of the East

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Thanjavur, Cultural capital of Tamil Nadu

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Savour Corner

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08 Under the redwoods in San Francisco 2 Corporate Outbound | November 2016

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Buzz

Aviation

SriLankan Airlines spreads its wings throughout Asia & the Middle East

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riLankan Airlines is pleased to announce the launching of 11 new destinations focussing on the Asia-Middle East region, one of the fastest growing travel markets in the world. The launching of the new destinations reflects the airline’s further commitment in strengthening its presence in the region and beyond. The carrier will operate direct flights from Colombo to 11 new destinations namely Lahore, Pakistan, Jakarta, Indonesia, Dhaka, Bangladesh, Muscat, Oman, Kolkata, Madurai, Varanasi and Bodhgaya in India, Bahrain, Seychelles and Gan, Maldives. The addition of Kolkata, Madurai, Bodh Gaya and Varanasi will make SriLankan Airlines the foreign airline with the largest network in India, one of the world’s largest travel markets, covering 11 cities with 106 flights per week, increasing from its present 88 flights to seven cities. SriLankan, which has for many years been the largest airline operation to the Maldives through its flights to the capital, Male, will become the only airline operating to Gan island in the southern part of the island chain.

Bengaluru airport will remain partially closed for nearly three months next year

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he Kempegowda International Airport in Bengaluru will be partially closed for around two-and-a-half months early next year for upgradation work on the runway. Starting February 19 till April 30, the airport will be shut from 10.30 am to 5 pm every day. The runway will also be closed for rehearsals and during show timings for the annual Aero India show in early February.

Passengers will not be inconvenienced too much by the closure, airport authorities promised, saying they will improve the flight handling capacity in the hours preceding and following the closure. Airport officials have chalked out new flight schedules with the Air Traffic Control and airline companies. The Civil Aviation Ministry is also believed to have agreed to the plans, though there was no official confirmation on this. The authorities have also asked the airport taxi service operation and the Bengaluru Metropolitan Transport Corporation, which runs a shuttle service to and from the airport, to make arrangements to handle the increased footfall between 5 pm and 10.30 am.

As part of the upgradation project, the Bengaluru airport authorities will build two rapid exit taxiways to increase runway capacity. Currently, the runway handles 38 air traffic movements every hour. With the additional rapid exit taxiways, this is expected to increase to 48 per hour. This is the second time the runway will be shut down. It was closed from March 11 to April 3, 2012, for emergency repairs.

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New security measure to be introduced at Delhi's Indira Gandhi International Airport

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ndia will introduce full-body scanners at its airports for the first time and to be launched at New Delhi’s Indira Gandhi Airport. Full-body scanners had previously been resisted in India due to concerns over privacy, but the introduction was being taken for “security and counter-terror measures”.

It is reassured to public about the scanners, stressing that the devices do not produce images of exact body contours, but instead only undertake a “targeted search” for concealed prohibited items. One scanner will be made operational on trial basis from the end of November at Delhi airport’s domestic terminal 1D. It will initially be used on a voluntary basis.

Vistara announces strategic partnership with Booking.com

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istara announced its partnership with Booking.com which enables members of Club Vistara (CV) frequent flyer program – to earn 2 CV points on every INR 100 spent on making accommodation bookings on Booking.com via Vistara’s hotel booking website, hotels.airvistara. com. Customers will now be able to book hotels at their favourite destinations and choose from more than a million properties across the world, while earning Club Vistara points.Vistara’s will be able to provide its customers with a massive selection of accommodations, from apartments, 5-star hotels, B&B’s, villas, hostels and more, while helping them earn CV points.The recently relaunched Club Vistara offers the fastest earn and redemption of points of any Indian airline loyalty program, and also provides the most generous elite tier privileges regardless of class of travel or fare paid.

Jet Airways to launch more flights to India from Oman

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et Airways plan to add one more flight to Mumbai besides launching direct flights to Calicut and Bangalore from Muscat. The flights will be added over the next couple of years when Jet Airways receives more aircraft, which they have ordered. Currently, Jet Airways flies to Mumbai, Delhi, Kochi and Trivandrum from Muscat.

The airline will also launch an integrated marketing campaign highlighting its Indian hospitality. Comprising a mix of offline and online channels, the new campaign is being rolled out from next week across the airline’s key markets in the Gulf comprising Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates (UAE).Guests can take advantage of the airline’s robust network and experience its award-winning Indian hospitality, together with a warm and personalised family spirit, that has helped the airline create new benchmarks in service excellence.

Besides connecting the Gulf and India, the airlines’ gateways in Abu Dhabi, Amsterdam, Paris and London will also facilitate convenient connectivity to Europe, the United States and Canada.

Travel with Alpfly at competitive airfares

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lpfly, an independent travel company launched with its jaw dropping plans and offers for the avid flight travels. Alpfly brings six different lucrative plans and offerings providing effective and efficient travel services to the people across India.

Alpfly’s cheapest plan is the Star Plan, where one person gets 10 air tickets for a period of 12 months against a payment of INR 21,999. The cost works out to INR 2199 per ticket.

The Couple Plan offers tickets at INR 29,999 and offers you the opportunity to travel alone or both of you together.

Going on, the family plan is for INR 39,999 which includes a couple along with kids. Except than the Star Privilege Plan all the plans have a clause of booking tickets 21 days prior to travel. Also, Alpfly does not allow to book tickets for Gazetted Holidays/Festive Dates. However, tickets can be issued 2 days prior and 2 days after to any gazetted Holidays/Festive Dates. Alpfly services PAN India except Lakshadweep, Leh, Surat, Kullu, Bhopal, Jodhpur, Andaman & Nicobar and Aurangabad.

Air Carnival likely to start Hubballi-Bengaluru daily flights soon

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ir Carnival, a domestic air carrier, will start its operations from Hubballi airport soon and will connect to Bangalore. Hubballi is the only commercial hub in North Karnataka with many business activities like electronics, clothes, manufacturing and other businesses. The availability of air service would play a vital role in improving the economy of the city and bring more investors to Hubballi.

As there is huge demand for more flights from Hubballi to Bengaluru and other destinations, several private airlines are showing interest in starting operation from Hubballi. Now, Air Carnival wants to take off from Hubballi at the earliest.

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Buzz

Hospitality

Sarovar Hotels signs a new property in Dalhousie

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arovar Hotels has announced the signing of a new hotel deal in Dalhousie, marking the group’s strengthening presence in the leisure hotels segment. One of the fastest growing hotel chains in India with over 75 operating hotels across 50 destinations in India and Africa, the group has signed an agreement for a 60 room hotel, Presidium Sarovar Portico in this picturesque town in Himachal Pradesh.With a prime location, the hotel enjoys excellent access to all key tourist attractions and will be offering all modern facilities including an all-day dining restaurant, bar, gym, swimming pool, spa and banquet facilities. The hotel is expected to be operational by the end of 2018.This hotel equipped with all amenities required by a modern day traveller is set to be the finest in the region.”

Designed by Kaboompics / Freepik

Golden Tulip opens Royal Tulip Kufri in Shimla

JW Marriott opens in Kolkata

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olden Tulip Hospitality group announced its first luxury property in the Himalayas ,the opening of Royal Tulip Kufri- Shimla. Located at 8,600 ft above sea level in Kufri, Royal Tulip Kufri is a world class resort that captures the beauty of its immaculate wilderness. With views of the Himalayas spread over acres of Cedar forest range, Royal Tulip Kufri is a luxury resort that embodies the charm of a small hill station, overlooking the valley. Royal Tulip Kufri is a family holiday destination with various fun activities such as – billiards, games center etc. Royal Tulip offers banquet venues that can accommodate over 800 guests, ideal for destination weddings, events, corporate off sites and get togethers.

There is also a spa and an indoor pool area. Those who are more adventurous can enjoy several outdoor and indoor recreational activities such as trekking, golf at Naldhera and skiing during season

Best Western Hotels & Resorts ties up with rooms XML

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est Western Hotels & Resorts has tied up with rooms XML Solutions Ltd, a B2B accommodation wholesale distributor designed for travel companies. Best Western has seven brands that it currently sells and develops.

It has 220 hotels in the pipeline in North America and another 250 hotels in the pipeline internationally. Its main focus is on the Asian market, primarily because it is new development and an area that will see the most growth in the next 5-10 years.The brand look to have direct relationships with many key B2B business operators and they have tremendous opportunity to help us grow our customer base focusing on B2B

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W Marriott Hotels & Resorts opens its eighth hotel in India, JW Marriott Hotel Kolkata. The property towers over JBS Haldane Avenue and is located in the heart of the city, minutes from the old central business district. The hotel will feature an elevated guest experience with exceptional comforts and personalised service, housed within a warm environment designed to reflect the spirit of the Kolkata. Comprising 281 spacious rooms, the hotel boasts of the largest ballroom in the city. In a first for the city, the hotel features a unique bridal room, offering brides an exclusive, private space available for pre-wedding preparations. In addition to 38,370 square feet of indoor and outdoor event spaces measuring, the hotel offers five intimate studios for meetings, each one equipped with cutting-edge facilities.

Among the F&B offerings, JW Kitchen, is the all-day restaurant featuring residential-style kitchens, prepares made toorder dishes with four interactive cooking stations. Vintage Asia is a fine dining restaurant serving authentic Thai and Chinese dishes. The Roof Top Lounge on the 24th floor takes dining to new heights with views overlooking the surrounding lush greenery.

GHM announces first Chedi in India

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eneral Hotel Management (GHM) has joined hands with Rajesh LifeSpaces, one of Mumbai’s most trusted real estate companies, to bring The Chedi brand to the hospitality market in India’s wealthiest city. The Chedi Mumbai is situated in close proximity to the Powai region, an area where infrastructure developments, connectivity and social groundwork have laid the foundation for the growth of a diverse expatriate community. It is also an increasingly favoured residential precinct among the locals and the burgeoning district is becoming an enclave for the who’s who in society.The concept for The Chedi Mumbai is one that will metamorphosise the current landscape and create a new buzz for lifestyle and quality dining in general. Visitors to Mumbai can look forward to The Chedi Mumbai’s 316 guestrooms, five restaurants that will cater to the discerning palates of the well-heeled traveller, extensive meeting facilities with state-of-the-art equipment and technology, a holistic spa and wellness facility and overall, a brand new development that will provide a stunning backdrop to any noteworthy event in Mumbai.

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San Francisco, or San Fran as it is colloquially may only stretch for about 14 kms, but it is packed with an assortment of activities that are sure to please the outdoorsy types, foodies, and curious wanderers of all ages. Known for its cool summers, fog, steep rolling hills, eclectic mix of architecture and landmarks, this city is one of the most important economic and business hubs of the world as well as the epicenter for some of the most important biomedical and physics research happening at the moment. The headquarter for five major banking institutions, it has several nicknames, The city by the bay, Fog city, San Fran and Frisco, as well as some older names such as ‘The City that knows how’, Baghdad by the bay, the Paris of the west, or simply, the City. It is one of the highest ranked cities in the world on livability ratings and is a pleasure to live in or travel to.

Feat ure d

Under the redwoods in San Francisco

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Fisherman’s wharf is on the itinerary of almost all the visitors that come to this city. The famous fishing fleet makes for an amazing fish story, and the souvenir shops in the waterfront marketplace and historic ships add to the atmosphere. The cauldrons of steaming crab, family style street entertain and sourdough French bread bakeries about. The historic F-line Streetcar and two cable car lines terminate in the area and sightseeing boats and boat charters link to Alcatraz, the rock island prison, Angel Island and other points around the Bay of San Fran.

Pier 39 is where all the fun stuff at the fisherman’s wharf is. The view of the sea gulls and sea lions, chowder bread bowls and California wines await you. Located on the Beach street and the Embar cardero on the Fisherman’s wharf, this is the postcard perfect backdrop for the Golden gate bridge, and the famous SF skyline.

More family entertainment can be found in the heart of Fisherman’s Wharf along Jefferson Street at the Madame Tussauds. The SF dungeon is not to be missed, where history comes alive with live actor shows, special effects and story telling on the grisly, but authentic history of the Bay area. Or walk the opposite way to the Ghiradelli square and factory to sample and buy their world famous chocolate and candy and see what the fuss is all about.

The Alamo square’s famous ‘postcard row’ at Hayes and Steiner streets is a visual treat. A tight, escalating formation of Victorian houses, back dropped by the SF skyscraper littered skyline provides a stunning contrast. The square and the park itself are an ideal midday break and picnic spot.

Far into the skyline of this famous city is the Golden Gate Bridge that was once named as the one that couldn’t be built. And yet, today it stands, one of the seven wonders of the modern world.

The magnificent span, the most famous landmark of the bay area opened after relentless struggle against fog, wind and treacherous tides and is a tribute to the grit and determination of the people of San Francisco. Crossing the strait of the Golden Gate from San Francisco to the Marin headlands for over two and a half kilometers is the world-renowned Golden Gate Bridge, easily identified by its International Orange color. The single suspension bridge is achored by twin towers and cables. Pedestrials, wheelchair users and bicyclists can go on the sidewalks of the bridge during daylight hours.

The other thing that SF is known worldwide for, and about two and a half kilometers from the Fisherman’s wharf into the bay is the Alcatraz. The first lighthouse built on the Pacific coast, and then a federal prison and penitentiary for notorious convicts such as Al Capone and George ‘Machine Gun’ Kelly, this is a popular attraction. The tour of the cell house shows where the inmates lived, and the main prison block with its steel bars, 10 Corporate Outbound | November 2016

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claustrophobic cells, library and ‘dark holes’ are structurally intact and send a chill through the spine. The last of the prisoners wehere transferred off the island in 1963.

San Fran is a city where art, science and culture flourish.

World class aquariums, interactive science exhibits and some of the US’ most diverse art collections make SF museums a must for any visitor. There is critically acclaimed architecture and breathtaking vista. The Asia art Museum is home to some fo the most diverse collection of art and objects from across the Asian continent and spans over 6000 years of human history. The California academy of Sciences, home to aquariums, planetariums, natural history museum, research and educational programs makes for a great visit for adults and children alike. From the splashing penguins to the wildflowers on the roof, the building is bursting with life. A four storey rainforest and awe inspiring coral reef ecosystem delights visitors and immersive planetarium transports you through space and time. For families with children, the Children’s creativity museum in Yerba Buena Gardens is a must visit. Filled with interactive exhibits, this museum teaches children about animation, music, digital media and other creative pursuits. The contemporary jewish museum, the de Young museum, the museum of craft and design, museum for the African diaspora, the modern after museum, the Walt Disney family museum and the exploratorium are some other art and creativity pursuits to take up if one has time on hand.

San Francisco has been named the best food city by the Bon Appetit magazine, and rightly so, as it has some of the most exquisite fare, for all ranges, budgets and food limitations.

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The city is a heaven for sea food lovers. The Cioppino, an Italian fish stew with shellfish from Woodhouse Fish Co. or the Maccaronara Ragu with Ricotta at A16 for the lover of the Italian food. The oriental food enthusiast must try the hotpot at the Shabu house, the Mochi at Benkyodo, Sushi and Sashimi at the Swan Oyster Depot, or the dry fried wings at San Tung. Garlic noodles at Perilla and the Green garlic pierogi with fried spinach are a delight, for both the vegan and vegetarian, and meat lovers alike. The tea leaf salad at the Burma superstar is truly a superstar. Partake in some irish coffee at the Buena Vista café or the Ike’s place, or perhaps some chocolate with s’mores from Papua New Guinea at the Dandelion Chocolatiers? Custard more your thing, try the sweet pea custard or the lemon creat tart at Tartine and Lazy bear. And when everything else fails, there’s always weed truffles at Dolores Park.

Go beyond the bustling metropolis that is san Francisco. In a 80 sq km radius outside the city, there are things to do, that will delight the nature lover, history buff, foodie, music enthusiast and the beachcomber. The entire bay area is still an oyster, waiting to be explored. Hike through the Yosemite national park. Named a world heritage site, the pristine stretch of Sierra Nevada moutain range is home to angular granite cliffs, the El Capitan, water falls, the giant Sequoia redwood trees and a fifth of all of california plant species. Head along the Merced River canyon, see the half dome, tunnel view, and the piece de resistance, the El Capitan. Partake in a relaxing coffee or a warming toddy at the Ahwahnee hotel or bar.

Ahwahnee is the native American tribe after which, the park is thought to have been named. Go back in time in Mariposa, a charming Gold rush eara town and gateway to Yosemite.

Enjoy the winter wonderland that is the national park with snow, hikes, ice skating and many other winter and snow activities. Discover the Yosemite water falls, the tallest waterfall in north america and sixth tallest in the world. Check out the zipline and experience the thrill of zipping high above the 14 Corporate Outbound | November 2016

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Sierra forests.

When tired of the hiking, drink in the pinots and chardonnnays at the Salinas valley or the napa valley, for epic view of the wine country, picturesque wineries and countryside, tastings and meals. Then listen to some old fashioned, new era music at the Greek or the Mountain Winery in Saratoga and dance the night away at the uptown theatre at Napa or the Blank club at San Jose. San francisco will never disappoint you.

Express Info Getting There:

By Air: San Francisco is well connected to all our major cities in India by most common airlines, which run flights with return fares starting at Rs. 88,000. Most flights have at least one stop, in the Middle East, Europe or the American East coast.

Local: Getting around the city of San Francisco is very easy. The city municipality (MUNI) operates buses, trains, cable cars and the F-line heritage streetcar. The buses remain above ground, and the metro goes underground sometimes. The city’s famous cable cars, operated by the Muni are a more entertaining, albeit a slower way to see the city. They run on three lines, Powell-Hyde, Powell-Mason and California St. The F-line runs up and down market St. all the way to the fisherman’s wharf.

To connect from the SF international airport, one can use the bay area rapid transit commuter rail, or use a taxi service. If staying for more than one day, visitor passes; clipper card and city PASS are useful as these will get you unlimited rides on all the MUNI transportation.

Currency: 1 USD = ` 66.70 November 2016 | Corporate Outbound 15

THE HILL DISTRICT CLUB

your breath as the fish comes to inspect your hook bait!

As the hobby progresses, you can even cook your catch too.

STAYING AT THE HILL DISTRICT CLUB WAYANAD

Your stay at the THE HILL DISTRICT CLUB will be incomplete without a day out in the wild. One of the unique features of the club is the camping facility which takes you closer to the mother nature. You will love everything from fixing the tent, campfire, songs, gazing the stars, listening to the sounds of the wild and in the end, regret packing up.NIGHT IN THE TENT Sleeping in open air is a different experience altogether. THE HILL DISTRICT CLUB offers one of the safest overnight camps inside the club boundaries.

Listen to the distant cries of birds as you drift to sleep.

With no telephones, computers and alarm clocks, you will love sipping morning tea the next day.

THE CAMP

THE HILL DISTRICT CLUB WAYANAD is more than a holiday retreat. The club offers an excellent opportunity to rediscover the missing spirit in your life. With beautiful locations, best facilities, splendid cuisines and pleasing hospitality.

THE HILL DISTRICT CLUB showcases many facilities under one roof. In stark contrast with the greenery outside, THE HILL DISTRICT CLUB has 18 elegantly furnished deluxe rooms for the members as well as the guests. Each room is unique, well- lit and bears a contemporary look. Ebony furniture and delicate paintings decor the room in a rather classical way.

And not to mention the THE HILL DISTRICT CLUB staff, who are always at your beck and call

A BIRDS EYE VIEW Lush green mornings. Dabs of yellow sun rays. A cup of coffee. Nothing but the beetle’s cry interrupts the serene mood here. Catch a glimpse of birds perched on the canopy overlooking green coffee thickets. You can even spot a dozen of rare orchids. Watch the distant mountains seamlessly merge with blue sky above.

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THE SWIMMING POOL Plunge. Soak your mind and body in the electric blue water.

Swim, paddle and watch the time stretches lazily to eternity.

That’s the 20 yards of fresh water reservoir for you! Regularly cleaned and filtered water, an attached Open Shower and change rooms gives you an uber-class experience. And the kids are not left alone – a kiddies’ pool ensures they are entertained fully, under the watchful eyes of experts.

ANGLING ISLAND Ever lured a fish to your bait? Fishing is an ideal way to retreat from the stressful life. One of the main attractions of THDC is the Angling Island. The club provides you with the fishing kit and lures, all you need to do is to relax and hold

WELCOME TO THE FOODSCAPE Good food and great views not always come in combination. The mouth-watering Kerala cuisines at the club urges you to leave your culinary comfort zones. But we don’t stop with just Kerala recipes, anything from North Indian to continental dishes are available in our menu. Our chefs also cater your demands for any particular dish.

COMFORTS IN THE WOODS HEALTH & MIND 1. Jogging 300 meter jogging track Oxygen rich non polluted surroundings Ensures your privacy Burn your calories with pleasure 2. Gym and Fitness Center 3. Yoga 4. Games Shuttle courts Table tennis Cycling Indoor games for children Indoor and out door games AQUA LEISURE 1. Pool 300 meter jogging track Baby pool: Safe for kids below 4 yrs Daily tests to ensure the hygiene Open shower and change rooms 2. Aqua Leisure Area Safe water leisure area for kids 3. Angling Island Fishing Fishing and cook your catch Provides angling kit TRAINING PROGRAMMES Swimming Fitness and Yoga Cycling Table tennis Arts and music Special camps for kids COMMON FACILITIES Ample carparking area Party area Open stage for performances Round the clock security November 2016 | Corporate Outbound 17

Jaipur Fe at ure d

Paris of the east

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to study the movement of constellations and stars in the sky and the sun dials provide accurate time to this day. This is enroute to the Amer Fort, the old capital of the Kacchwahas, which stands atop a craggy hill in the Aravalis. The fort is remarkable as much for its majestic and royal grandeur, as it is for the surroundings, its sturdy battlements and beautiful palaces, and affords a fine blend of Hindu and Muslim architecture. Made of red sandstone and white marble, this fort is reflected in the lakes at the foothills, and is a sight to behold. Sheesh Mahal, or the chamber of mirrors, and the Diwan e-aam, the hall of public audience, with its beautifully proportioned hall open on three sides and stands on two rows of ornamented pillars. Sukhmandir with its sandalwood doors, inlaid with ivory is a sight to behold. Close by are the Jaigarh and Nahargarh forts. Both of these, standing atop hilltops in the Aravali overlook the palaces and city of Amer.

The world’s biggest cannon wheels, the Jai Ban is positioned at the Jaigarh fort. The Nahargarh fort is known for its walls that run along a hill ridge and the stunning view and architectural marvel that it is.

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lso known as the pink city, this is the capital city of the majestic state of Rajasthan. Jaipur, Rajasthan’s capital, is an enthralling historical city and the gateway to India’s most flamboyant and colorful state. The city’s colorful, chaotic streets ebb and flow with people and traffic, and the heady brew of the old tradition and modern living provide a beautiful contrast. Careering buses dodge dawdling camels and cows, leisurely cycle-rickshaws frustrate swarms of motorbikes, and buzzing everywhere are the auto rickshaws or tuktuks, looking for the easy prey customer. In the midst of this mayhem, the splendors of Jaipur’s majestic past are islands of calm, evoking a different pace and world, where it is easy to lose oneself.

Historical sights and sites At the heart of the city, the city palace and Sawai Man Singh II museum are a must visit. They occupy about a seventh of the old city area. The palace is a blend of Rajput and Mughal architecture. The seven storied Chandra Mahal offers a fine view of the gardens surrounding the palace, within the confines of the fort walls. This is where the Maharaja or the king of the olden days would hold the public audience and hear out the grievances. The hall of private audience or the Diwan e-khas has a marble pawed gallery. The Hawa Mahal, or the wind palace, built by Maharaja Sawai Pratap Singh is one of the most recognizable monument of Jaipur with the 5 storied windows facing the street. The stunning, semi-octagonal monument has over 152 windows with over hanging latticed balconies, this was designed for the royal ladies of the day, to observe the comings and goings of the city, when women stayed veiled and hidden.

Jantar Mantar, or the observatory is a huge, astronomical station, consisting of huge masonry instruments that were used 20 Corporate Outbound | November 2016

As one is driving to reach Amer fort, one crosses the Jal Mahal or the Lake palace, a relic of the royal times, a fort, one of a kind, situated on a manmade island in the midst of the Man Sagar lake, with beautiful hilly vista surrounding it. In these same valleys is also Kanak Vrindavan, a temple and garden, and a popular picnic spot for locals and tourists alike.

A town where Hinduism flourishes Owing to the multitudes of temples that are in this city, Jaipur is often referred to as the city of temples.

The Govindev Jee Temple is one of the oldest temples in Jaipur. Dedicated to Lord Krishna and visited by Millions daily, this exhibits superb royal architecture and sits at a place of honor in the city palace complex. According to popular legend, lord Krishna’s image in the temple looks exactly like Krishna’s form during his incarnation on earth.

The Lakshmi Narayan temple, situated just below the hill of Moti Doongri is known for the intricate marble carvings, and is popularly known as the Birla temple, as it was constructed by the Birla Industrialists. The residents of Jaipur hold the Moti Doongri Ganesh temple in the highest religious regard.

The first invitation from every family for every auspicious occasion goes to him. The temple adorns beautiful stone carvings and the figures of deities are engraved in shining white marble. The Ganesha idol is adorned in new clothes and ornaments everyday. Atop the hilltop of Moti Doongri is a shrine to the Lord Shiva, opened but once a year, and sight to behold.

Just 10 kms from the city of Jaipur is the temple of Galta, also known as the monkey temple, owning to the large number of monkeys present at the premises during daytime. Surrounded by the Aravalis, this temple is dedicated to the sun god, Shiva and Lord Hanuman. Made of pink sandstone, this appears more like an abandoned palace than a traditional temple building. It is situated inside a huge complex with pavilions, temples, natural springs and ponds, and holy water bodies.

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Celebrations and festivities The city of Jaipur celebrates not only the most common festivals and holidays with massive pomp and show, the city is known for several festivals, which happen during various times of the year. These encompass every aspect of living, from culture to academia. The Jaipur Literature festival is famous around the world, literary and otherwise. The fiveday festival sees the who’s who of the author world, writers, poets, playwrights, artists and journalists around the world, with back to back parallel sessions on various current issues.

Topped with great food and musical evenings, this has become a massive attraction for the Pink city.

Nearly three centuries since its inception, the pink city is pink no longer. The pink is where it was sometimes taking on an orange hue under the glare of the desert sun, though it has been slowly and steadily edged out by the sprawling modern city. But the gateway to Rajasthan, this city must be on the absolute top of your list, if you love palaces and want an insight on the lifestyles of the rulers on a bygone era. The flamboyant lifestyle of the past, even for a few days, will transport you to a lifetime experience.

The Teej festival, celebrated during the monsoon season, during the month of July and August, the women eagerly await Teej across Jaipur. Worshipping for the longevity of their husbands, or husband intended, the festival is marked by many preparations in advance, shopping, new clothes, henna, singing traditional songs and hymns, and swinging in gardens, traditional to this city, in anticipation of a heavy monsoon and relief from the summer heat. Gangaur, celebrated during between March and April, women seek blessings of Goddess Parvati and hope for a husband like Lord Shiva. The women pray for the eternal life and health of their husbands and there are huge processions across the streets dedicated to Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati.

The elephant festival is organized around this same time, during the festival of Holi, or the festival of Colors, in the month of March. Witness the most loved sport in most unique setup- elephant polo. Bedecked elephants, embellished with colors and garlands. Spotting female elephants, the ones wearing anklets, and folk dances are some of the highlights of this festival.

Food is life!

Jaipur, the pink city offers some of the most authentic Rajasthani cuisine. The local dishes that must be tried range from the most delicious Dal Baati churma to the spicy laal maas. Exquisite sweets like Ghewar to the piping hot pyaz kachori are absolute favorites with the locals, along with a piping hot cup of tea. Try the Daal Baati Churma at the choki dhaani on Tonk Road, or Santosh Bhojanalaya next to Sindhi camp. They will also serve kadhi and gatte ki sabzi along with the daal baati churma, which must be tried. Made with yogurt and chick pea flour and dumplings made of chickpea, these soupy curries are a delight for the foodies.

Freshly fried in ghee, Ghewar from the Laxmi Mishthan Bhandar in Johri Bazaar, who also are the proud inventors of this sweet meat, or try the Rawat sweets at sindhi camp.

They also serve a beautiful onion or pyaz kachori and mirchi vadas, made by dunking green chilies in chickpea flour and deep fried. Laal maas (red meat) and safed maas (white meat) is for those who think that Rajasthan is primarily vegetarian.Straight from the kitchens of the royals, the best ones can be found at Niros or Handi restaurant on MI road.

The old kebab shop on the roadside on MI road, next to the mosque is the original kebab shop. The famous lassi wala on MI road has the best buttermilk and lassi human kind has to offer.

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Express Info Getting there: Most commercial airlines run flights to Jaipur connecting it to most domestic and international cities. The Jaipur junction railway station serves as the headquarters of the Northwestern railway zone of the Indian railways and is connected to most major cities in India.

The interstate bus terminus is located at Sindhi camp and is also close to the railway station.

November 2016 | Corporate Outbound 23

Weekend Getaway

Thanjavur, cultural capital of Tamil Nadu

T

he cultural and academic capital of the state of Tamil

Nadu is located in the fertile Kaveri delta, and is popular for its temples, art and handicrafts and is known for its paintings and rich history. This is also a prominent centre for rice cultivation and is often also known as the rice bowl of Tamil Nadu. The town is famous for its Thanjavur painting, a classical south Indian painting style, which was inaugurated from this town, and spread across the adjoining and geographically contiguous Tamil Country. This art form draws its immediate resources and inspiration from the Nayaka period of Thanjavur who encouraged both classical dance and music, as well as this style of painting. Today, Tanjore paintings are highly sought after, and this art form as been both revived and combined with other styles of paintings and been recreated on different mediums.

The city is believed to have been named after an Asura, or a demon Tanjan, who was killed

by Vishnu. Another school of thought attributes the nomenclature to Than-sei-oor, which means a place surrounded by rivers and green paddy fields.

Eventually, it was Anglicized from Thanjavur to Tanjore.

In this city are the ochre foundation blocks of perhaps the

24 Corporate Outbound | November 2016

most remarkable civilization of Dravidian history, one of the few kingdoms to expand Hinduism beyond India, bedrock for aesthetic styles that spread from Madurai to the Mekong delta in China. A dizzying historical legacy was forged in this city during its heyday. The cultural, architectural and the scholarly pursuits of these rulers are reflected in the form of great monuments like the grand Anaicut, Serfoji Mahal Library and the grand temple of Brihadesshwara. Today, it is a mid sized, crowded Indian town, but the past is still very much present. The grand Brihadeeshwara temple, where thousands worship everyday, stands a testament to the legacy of the Cholas. The tower cut out from one rock, the 13 ft lingam or the deity, with a circumference of 54 ft and a monolith Nandi or the Shiva Bull are just some of the attractions in this city. The Thanjavur labyrinthine royal palace preserves memories of many other powerful dynasties of later centuries that ruled this city. The little fort and the big fort are the two forts in this town. The Thanjavur royal palace stands within the big fort. The palace complex houses the temple of Lord Chandra Mauleeshwara. It is a grand pile of fascinating buildings, huge

November 2016 | Corporate Outbound 25

Express Info Previous known as Tanjore, the headquarters of the Thanjavur district of Tamil Nadu is a town in the state of Tamil Nadu famous for its Chola culture and architecture.

Getting there Air: There are no regular flights from other major cities to Thanjavur. Nearest airport is in Tiruchirappalli in Tamil Nadu, which is 48 kms away and the Pondicherry airport in Puducherry which is 138 km away.

Rail: Thanjavur is well connected by trains to most major cities in the south of India and the rest of the country.

Bus: There is good road connectivity and regular buses from Chennai, Bangalore, Hyderabad, Pondicherry, Trichi, Coimbatore, Madurai and other major south Indian cities ply on the regular basis.

Boarding and lodging corridors and spacious halls. The Saraswati mahal library was established in the 16th century and exhibits unparalleled repository of cultural antiques and inexhaustible treasures. It houses some of the rarest collections of manuscripts, books, maps and paintings. There is a small museum in the library complex. The sangeetha mahal or the house of music is an acoustically perfect music hall, located within the premises of the library and is a striking example of the skills of the architects of the yesteryear. The Serforji Memorial hall, also located in the palace complex displays rare antiques possessed by the Maratha Royal family, manuscripts, weapons, royal robes and other handicrafts made out of ivory, jade, lacquer, glass, porcelain and wood, and are worth viewing.

In addition to the places of interest above, found within the town of Thanjavur, one must venture outside the small town as well, as there is much to be imbibed. The Punnai Nallur Mariamman is a Shakti (power), anointed by Lord Shiva to destroy the demon Tanjan. A temple dedicated to her is located about 10 kms outside of town. The Thirukandiyur, also located about 10 kms from the town of Thanjavur is dedicated to Lord Shiva, reincarnated as Brahma SiraKandeeswarar Temple.

and revered Carnatic vocalists. Thousands of ardent fans and devotees for this genre of music assemble here for this festival.

Centre for learning The town of Thanjavur is also a center for great learning.

The Tamil University was established in the year 1981 and is devoted to the cause of Tamil literature and language. It concentrates on advanced studies in Tamil literature, grammar, linguistics, religion, manuscripts, art and architecture.

In addition, the town boasts to the highest population of institutes and universities and is often called as the university town, because of the high population of the students who reside here.

The best months to visit Thanjavur range from autumn to spring, through winter. The summer is extreme and difficult to bear. There are hotels that cater to most budget ranges and are reasonably to very comfortable.

Food Local eateries serve Tamil style food, often served on Banana leaves, and is a must try. If one is looking for food one finds in the metropolis, there are several continental and multi-cuisine restaurants about town.

Carnatic music Thiruvalyaru, about 13 kms from town is a temple located on the banks of the river Kaveri, and this is associated with the music trinity, the saint Thyagaraj. The music saint has composed innumerable kritis, sung and researched Carnatic music and is revered by music devotees all over the world.

Elaborate annual festival called Thyagaraja Aradhanai, with his pancharathna kritis is organized and the pancharantha kritis rendered by all, including some of the most popular 26 Corporate Outbound | November 2016

November 2016 | Corporate Outbound 27

INGREDIENTS

• 200 gm Mutton • 2 Tbsp Ghee • 2 cinnamon sticks • 1/4 tsp cumin seeds • 4 cardamom • 4 Tbsp of onion paste • 2 tsp ginger garlic paste • 2 Tbsp almond-cashew nut paste • 2 tsp yoghurt • 2 Tbsp milk • 1 tsp cream • Salt to taste

Chef Vipul, a Professional in Industry with over 11 years of experience in India and Abroad, specializes in South East Asian and Modern Continental Cuisine. Currently, he is inspiring and nurturing young chefs as a Chef Trainer at IHM PUSA New Delhi.

Safed maas Jaisalmer nicknamed “The Golden city”, is a city in the Indian state of Rajasthan. The town stands on a ridge of yellowish sandstone, crowned by a fort, which contains the palace and several ornate Jain temples. This issue I am presenting a very authentic meat curry from jaisalmer –Safed maas where meat is boiled and cooked with masalas, almond-cashew paste and a generous helping of cream, milk and curd.

Method • Grind together onions to a fine paste. Add salt.

• Blanch almonds and cashew nuts. Grind them to make a smooth paste.

• Partially boil the meat and keep aside.

• Heat ghee in a pan. Add cinnamon, cumin seeds and cardamom.

• Cook till the cumin seeds start crackling.

• Then add onion paste, ginger garlic paste, salt, semi boiled meat, almond and cashew nut paste, curd, milk and cream.Mix well.

• Garnish with cream and coriander leaves.

• Serve hot with rice.

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November 2016 | Corporate Outbound 29

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