Stand - out momentS from the beSt ShowS from wIfw Volume 1. Issue 7. April 2013. Volume 1. Issue 7. April 2013. Rs Rs 50 50
DELHI & NCR
I N D U L G E
I
E X P L O R E
I
E X P E R I E N C E
SRIDEVI TALKS MOVIES AND FASHION
RITU DALMIA ON HER LIFE IN DELHI
IT IS SUMMER TIME • 4 IDEAS TO MAKE YOUR HOME AIRY AND LIGHT. • SUMMER CARE FOR YOUR PLANTS • COOL YOURSELF WITH THE BEST REFRIGERATORS, AIR CONDITIONERS AND FANS
PLUS
• DETOX, DIET CHART AND SALAD RECIPES
SEEKING ORIENTAL FURNITURE ON MG ROAD
• PLUNGE INTO LUXURY POOLS
REJUVENATE AT LEADING WELLNESS RETREATS
Delhi Shopping Guide
Cars & Bikes
Summer Styles
Jewellery
For the Bar
Skincare
Lounging Style
2|CityScan|APRIL 2013
& editor Navin Berry publisher
managing editor
Priyaanka Berry
editorial consultant
editor’s note…
Probir Dasgupta
features writers
Varalika Vij Anupriya Bishnoi business development
Vimal Talwar
advertising manager
Aditya Choudhary
creative consultant
Anirban Bora design
Ashok Saxena Neelam Aswani CityScan is printed and published by Navin Berry, on behalf of Cross Section Media Pvt. Ltd. Printed at Rakesh Press A-7, Naraina, Phase II, New Delhi. CityScan is published from IIIrd Floor, Rajendra Bhawan, 210, Deen Dayal Upadhyay Marg, New Delhi 110002. Tel: 91-11-43784444. Fax: 91-11-41001627, 41001628. E-mail: info@ crosssectionmedia. com This issue of CityScan contains 100 pages including cover
Dear Reader, Welcome to 40 degrees! With many dreading the onset of summers, we help you brace yourself to not only survive the dehydrating heat but also enjoy the best that summer time has to offer. In our article on cooling Indian sherbets, we show you how to make energising and refreshing pick-me-ups at home as well as our top picks when dining out. If the sugar content in the drinks has got you worried, read our column by Ishi Khosla, a well-known Delhi nutritionist, on the healthy way to detox and stay fit for the season, including a very effective 7-day diet plan. When it comes to your home, we guide you on how to turn your house around to make it the perfect summer residence by bringing in greens, opting for summery colours, and with lighter materials. We get Syama Balbir, Secretary of the Indian Bonsai Association to help you take correct care of your plants when temperatures are soaring. We follow that up with a catalogue on buying impressive and well-crafted planters to enhance the look of your home. Of course, many find the need to upgrade their cooling devices – browse through our catalogue on efficient fans and air conditioners and the best refrigerators. In fashion, we take you through a recap of the best shows at the recently held Wills India Fashion Week and bring you the trends to adopt in your wardrobe. For men, we talk to four Delhi based designers specialising in menswear – whether it is corporate chic, casual resort wear or standing tall in a classic Indian kurta. In our cover story, we meet Ritu Dalmia, chef extraordinaire who got many Delhiites to appreciate and even love traditional Italian food. With Diva café going strong and ranking among the most respected eateries for its quality and authenticity, we speak with her about her life in Delhi and of course, food. Lastly, we bring you leading health and wellness retreats from across India that offer holistic treatments with well-trained staff in a comfortable and sometimes even a luxurious environment. A perfect escape to take a breather from daily life and return home revitalised.
FOLLOW US /cityscanmagazine We are now available on iPhone/iPad/Android and Web. Search CityScan in your App or Play Store. Subscribe today!
Priyaanka Berry Managing Editor
APRIL 2013|CityScan|3
contents april
14
84
74 highlights…
14 THE WEEK THAT WAS
Stand-out moments of the best shows from WIFW
20 GEN NEXT DESIGNERS
IN MENSWEAR
Young brigade of creative masters: profiled
34 SEEKING ORIENTAL
FURNITURE ON MG ROAD
A guide to Oriental artefacts and Buddha sculptures
38 GET YOUR HOME
SUMMER READY
40 SUMMER CARE FOR
PLANTS
The essential duties of a good gardener
52 SUMMER ELECTRONICS
GUIDE
Cool yourself with the best refrigerators, air conditions and fans
74 A TETE-A-TETE WITH
RITU DALMIA
The super chef talks about her life in Delhi and good food
58 SPREADING THE URBAN
CATERER’S APRON
4 ideas to make your home 4 leading Delhi caterers on airy and light what is takes to be the best 4|CityScan|APRIL 2013
contents april
20 34 64
86
62 THE INTERNAL QUEST
FOR THE PERFECT SUMMER BODY
Detox, Diet Chart and Salad Recipes
Stand - out momentS from the beSt ShowS from wIfw Volume 1. Issue 7. April 2013. Rs 50
68 WINE’ING IN THE CITY
DELHI & NCR
On the wines available and how to savour them
I N D U L G E
CITYSCAN April 2013 Volume 1 | Issue 7
POOLS
Pick your hotel pool membership
12
84 CELEBRITY: IN TOWN
BALANCE
Health and wellness retreats in India
72 CRITICS CRUNCH 94 DELHI SPEAK 96 BOOK LAUNCH
I
E X P E R I E N C E
RITU DALMIA ON HER LIFE IN DELHI
IT IS SUMMER TIME • 4 IDEAS TO MAKE YOUR HOME AIRY AND LIGHT. • SUMMER CARE FOR YOUR PLANTS • COOL YOURSELF WITH THE BEST REFRIGERATORS, AIR CONDITIONERS AND FANS
Sridevi
86 RESTORE YOUR INNER
E X P L O R E
SRIDEVI TALKS MOVIES AND FASHION
80 PLUNGE INTO LUXURY
I
PLUS IN STORE
28 Women Accessories 24 Him & Her 44 Home Interiors
PLUS
• DETOX, DIET CHART AND SALAD RECIPES
SEEKING ORIENTAL FURNITURE ON MG ROAD
• PLUNGE INTO LUXURY POOLS
REJUVENATE AT LEADING WELLNESS RETREATS
Delhi Shopping Guide
Cars & Bikes
Summer Styles
Jewellery
For the Bar
Skincare
Lounging Style
On the Cover:
Ritu Dalmia
Cover Picture Courtesy: Ritu Dalmia
98 DON’T MISS APRIL 2013|CityScan|5
lifestyle buzz fashion
GET SET GO WITH HIDESIGN Inspired by the romance of travel, Hidesign sets the clock back in time to create travel bags that are modern in feel but has its roots in the thrill of exploration and discoveries. Hidesign’s Fleet Street collection provides a variety of options to choose from, ranging from despatch, hold-all and flight bags. An exclusive collection for the corporate traveller finds an expression in the range of Melrose place, the Ridgeway and Abbey Road comprising of duffel, suitcases and briefcases on wheels. Price: ` 5,495 onwards. Where: Hidesign, Select CITYWALK, Saket/ Khan Market, New Delhi/ Ansal Plaza, Vaishali, Ghaziabad
See the world the Nike way Nike Vision launches its newest 2013 NSW sunglasses collection, paying tribute to vintage styling and youthful urban lifestyle designs. The collection is revitalized with modern shapes and brilliant coloration. Each sunglass features Nike Vision’s highly advanced technology. These sunglasses are unisex and have a variety of colours making it look fashionable. Price: ` 6,000 onwards. Where: Nike exclusive outlets across Delhi/ NCR
Get black-heeled this season Trishuli goes all black this season in footwear which includes hand painted wedges to mother of pearl heels. This novel range is surely going to turn heads. This footwear can be easily matched with any coloured dress. You can wear them all year long without having to think whether they will suit your outfit or not. Price: ` 3000 onwards. Where: www.fabulloso.com and www.designemporia.in
Steve Madden lovers get more Good news for Steve Madden fans. Now you can shop online with their online portal in India, stevemadden.in. No matter which part of India you are, get your favourite designer boots, booties or pumps delivered right at your door step. Price: ` 3,999 onwards. Where: www.stevemadden.in 6|CityScan|APRIL 2013
lifestyle buzz fashion
CORNELIANI IS HERE WITH ITS DANDY COLLECTION With combined focus on elegance and style, Corneliani launches its accessories collection for this season. Elegant yet functional shapes alongside innovation and interesting materials define the iconic range of luxury accessories for men. Price: On request. Where: Corneliani, DLF Emporio, Vasant Kunj, New Delhi
Gucci gets handy For the nex t Spring/ Summer season, Gucci’s Creative Director Frida Giannini has designed the Aristographic clutch to complement the vibrant a llure of the women’s ready-to-wear collection. Innovation meets timeless chicness in this sma ll boxy-bag, characterized by a sharp, minimalist design, interpreted both in delicate fume and transparent tones and in the more vivid colors of citrus yellow, palm green and begonia pink. Price: On request. Where: Gucci, DLF Emporio, Vasant Kunj, New Delhi
Classic tradition comes back with modern hints The Chronomaster Open unites in a spectacular fashion the most rigorous watchmaking tradition with bold contemporary design. This model by Zenith uncovers the very essence of time and reveals, in the openings on its dial, the 36,000 vibrations of its movement: the legendary El Primero. The aperture invites interest as much by the magic it emanates as by the curiosity it inspires. Price: On request. Where: Johnson’s Watch Co, C – 16, Connaught Place/ A-12, South Extension Part 1, New Delhi
Another signature launch by Tumi Tumi is here with its new collection which sports a modern icon for the brand as it infuses the identifiable ‘T’ logo on Tumi’s signature ballistic nylon and leather material. The collection is made up of travel, business, day bags and small accessories. This new Ticon collection is comprised of best-selling styles from Tumi’s travel, business and lifestyle assortment, offered in classic black ballistic nylon and in black, brown and tan leather. Price: On request. Where: Tumi, DLF Emporio, Vasant Kunj, New Delhi
APRIL 2013|CityScan|7
lifestyle buzz gadgets
THE ALL NEW AND IMPROVED BLACKBERRY 10 The much awaited and anticipated Blackberry 10 launched with its first model Z10 this month. Blackberry loyalists would agree that this new operating system is light years ahead of what they have been using so far. The multitasking frames, the central hub, the more responsive HTML5 browser and the 8MP camera geared for multiple shots makes this new gadget a more efficient, quicker and sleek gadget to own. However if you are one of those who are used to a particular interface, and don’t like learning another, you should be prepared that the new blackberry will need you to relearn all you thought you knew about your preferred mobile. Barring the familiar Blackberry messenger, you may find it tough to come across other identifiable Blackberry pages. Some can argue that the changes are so drastic that to a certain extent the phone may have lost its identity amongst users. However, the significantly improved new operating system is sure to increase your productivity and leave you a satisfied customer. Along with the fully HD touchscreen comes an all-new touch keyboard that promises to learn and adapt to your writing style
and suggest words to type faster and more accurately. The Blackberry Hub provides a central point to keep everything at one place from emails, BBM updates to social media, fitted with the ability to “peek” into the Hub from anywhere, so you are always a swipe away from it. The camera has been upgraded with the Time Shift mode that captures milliseconds before and after your photo — so you can scroll back on the dial to open a friend’s eyes and then forward to catch your other friend smiling, before combining it all to create the perfect picture. The device is also equipped with BlackBerry Balance, which seamlessly separates and secures work applications and data from personal content on the phone. The web browser is updated to make your experience more comfortable with increased speed and simplicity. You can do more with your BBM with the new video chat mode and talk face to face with other OS 10 users. You can also use the new Screen Share feature to show photos, your browser, or review a business document together. You can even share the view from your camera. Price: ` 43,000.
Processor
Screen
Weight
Operating System
Internal Storage
Quoted Battery Life
Rear Camera
Front Camera
Dual Core 1.5 GHz
4.2” diagonal, 1280 x 768 resolution, 356 PPI
136g
BlackBerry 10 OS
16GB (expandable memory – upto 32GB)
Up to 11 hours talk time (3G)
8 megapixel auto-focus camera
2 megapixel fixed-focus camera
Here comes the age of premium smartphones – Sony Xperia Z Xperia Z’s razor sharp reality display, powered by Mobile BRAVIA Engine 2, brings Sony’s long-standing TV expertise to the smartphone and delivers an immersive viewing experience with super brightness and clarity. HDR technology gives clear images against strong backlight, so users can capture razor sharp pictures and videos even in extreme conditions. It also includes battery stamina mode that improves standby time by four times. This smartphone is highly durable with tempered glass and anti-shatter film on the front and back, as well as the highest levels of dust and water resistance. Price: ` 38,990. Where: Sony exclusive stores across Delhi/ NCR 8|CityScan|APRIL 2013
lifestyle buzz home
Go green with contemporary vases
CREATE YOUR PERFECT WORK SPACE AT HOME Now you can make your own office at home with Hulsta’s new range ‘Home office’. You can create an endless number of new configurations, such as single, team and group workplaces. The range also meets requirements of a wide range of different room sizes and shapes: it is possible to place the units
Eat healthy and fresh with Klick CAN’S Arttd’inox introduces a stylish range of containers with unique stainless steel lid that offers air tight locking to keep food fresh and healthy, Klick CAN’S. These air tight containers keep food fresh longer the best method to store eatables and save money. The lids are safely and firmly closed with just a simple click and glass gives effective food storage. The stainless steel lid is crafted with Indian motifs, inspired with architectural patterns to embellish the traditionalism in the CAN’s, with modernism.
centrally in the room as well as by a wall or in a corner. Some of the finishes that are available are white lacquer, structured beech, oak mocha etc. Price: On request. Where: Hulsta, A‐248, Mahipalpur Extension, National Highway ‐ 8, Delhi-Gurgaon Road, New Delhi
Address Home has introduced an array of beautiful vases and pretty blooms as part of its Spring Summer collection ’13. They have an extensive range of vases available; from the graceful and elegant to the unique and unconventional. It also presents an assortment of hand crafted exotic blooms in pristine colours. From tropical flowers to beautiful leaves and foliage, Address Home’s botanical collection for spring has a selection of exotic flowers for indoor and outdoor flower arrangements. Price: On request. Where: Address Home, N-3, Greater Kailash, Part-1 Market/ Ogaan, H-2, Hauz Khas Village, New Delhi
It’s time to make your home swankier Umbra, a brand that specializes in innovative home ware launches its new collection. This novel range consists of space saving shower caddies, juicy coloured bathroom accessories, effective striking bins and waste cans, a range of kitchen hygiene products that are much needed in today’s kitchens, to fabulous home accessories of wall art, photo frames, bookshelves and more. Price: ` 399 onwards. Where: houseproud.in
Price: ` 1,400 onwards. Where: Arttd’inox, Global Foyer, Golf course road, Sector 43, Gurgaon/ 77-B, Defence Colony, New Delhi
APRIL 2013|CityScan|9
lifestyle buzz food
LEONARDO OLIVE OIL LAUNCHES ITS FIRST OLIVE OIL BAR Try new recipes on the occasion of Songkran Food Festival On the occasion of the Thai New Years in April, Courtyard by Marriott, Gurgaon is hosting a Songkran Food Festival where you can taste different recipes made by the chef such as Som Tam, Phad Thai jee, Gaeng Garee Phak, Tab Tim Grob, Larb Kai, Satay Pla.
A leading brand of olive oil in India, Leonardo has launched its unique olive oil bar, which is first of its kind in India. Leonardo Olive Oil Bar presents a range of carefully selected, gourmet Italian extra virgin olive oils from different regions (Puglia, Tuscany, Sicily) dispensed on tap
and bottled on-the-spot plus a range of Italian chilli, garlic and lemon infused extra virgin olive oils. The opportunity to taste with tasting notes and a personal guide will also be available. Price: ` 225 onwards for oil. Where: Foodhall, DLF Promenade, Vasant Kunj, New Delhi
b-bar now opens for lunch After satiating your taste palates with accentuated flavours served through dinner, b-bar is now open during lunch hours. Enjoy a leisurely lunch with your friends, a family get-together or an important business meeting. The menu at Buddha Bar offers a fusion of Asian cuisines and b-bar follows in the same footsteps with its signature dishes accentuated with flavours of India. Price: Meal for two with drinks ` 5,000. Where: Level 4, Select CITYWALK, Saket, New Delhi
10|CityScan|APRIL 2013
Price: ` 2500 for two. Where: Courtyard by Marriott, Gurgaon
More choice of dishes at United Coffee House T he icon ic Un ite d Coffee House embarks upon a new journey with new additions in its world cuisine menu. The new additions to the menu are conceptualized to cater to the varied dining preferences. The comprehensive range goes over an exotic European, Western and Mediterranean menu, while regional Indian remains a great favourite. Some of their new additions are Napolitano, Aglio Olio, Pollo Marsala, Gateaux Florentino, Vietnamese Pho, Larb Kai, Murg Ki Khasiyat, Tangri Khushnuma; Makai Tamatar Palak and Paneer Methi Malai. For the sweet lovers, UCH has included some new entrants like Warm Chocolate Sin Cake, Tiramisu and a choice of Haagen -Dazs Ice-creams. Price: ` 1,500 for two + taxes. Where: United Coffee House, E-15, Inner Circle, Connaught Place, New Delhi
lifestyle buzz launch
A NEW VISAGE OF ETHNICITY Indian August is the new address for a unique journey into fashion, home accessories and art for the connoisseurs of elegance and lovers of all things Indian. The store promises to provide a canvas for more than 25 designers, artists, crafts enthusiasts and revivalists under one roof who desire to integrate the Indian handcrafted traditions. Where: Indian August, N-3, Sector-18, Noida
Treat yourself at the new luxury spa Luxury Spa and Salon, Aradya launches in India to provide exhilarating experiences to its guests. The inspiration behind this spa is nature’s manifold beauty, balance and energy which are the elements that constitute the human body. Aradya has both single and couple rooms, Thai room, pedicure and reflexology room, salon, Jacuzzi and steam bath. It also offers a varied choice of exotic treatments from purest skincare range with natural flowers, revitalizing and energizing massages for the muscles, healing treatments for muscle, re-energizing foot and head massages etc. You can also avail sweet romantic packages “King and Queen” for a truly royal experience. In addition to the treatments, the brand offers organic Spa cuisine. Price: ` 4,500 onwards. Where: The Gallery on MG, Gurgaon-Mehrauli Road, New Delhi
More style, less ink Drawing inspiration for the theme and design of his signature pen from his highly successful film, The Expendables, Mr. Stallone turned to classical art and worked with Montegrappa’s artisans to create the ‘Chaos’ pen. Sylvester Stallone’s ‘Chaos’ pen is fashioned from precious materials and produced in limited numbers. The body of the pen is made of black pearl celluloid with overlays in sterling silver or solid 18K gold. Price: ` 3, 26,995 onwards. Where: Kapoor Watch Co., DLF Emporio, Vasant Kunj/ Shangri-La, 19, Ashoka Road, Connaught Place, New Delhi
APRIL 2013|CityScan|11
lifestyle buzz cars & bikes
HOT WHEELS: NEW LAUNCHES IN THE WHEEL WORLD Jaguar XJ
T
This month we
he Jaguar XJ Ultimate bring you 4 new goes on sale in India entrants across giving Jaguar customers unprecedented levels of various price luxury that focus on innovation segments starting and technology. The XJ Ultiwith the enviable mate represents the pinnacle of the luxurious, innovative Jaguar, the much XJ experience with heightened awaited Mercedeslevels of opulence for rearBenz G-Class, the seat passengers. A full-length, leather-trimmed centre console 7 seater revamped separates the two individually Toyota Fortuner tailored rear seats which feature and Gurkha for your power adjustment, ventilation, massage and lumbar functions. extreme off-road TECHNICALITIES : The XJ Ultifantasies. mate is available with Jaguar’s existing 5.0-litre V8 supercharged petrol engine and its powerful and efficient 3.0-litre V6 turbocharged diesel, all driving the rear wheels via an eight-speed transmission. PRICE : V8 5.0 S/C Ultimate LWB priced at Rs.1,87,96,544. 3.0L Diesel Ultimate LWB priced at Rs. 17,824,481 WHERE : AMP Motors Pvt. Ltd, A-5 Mohan Co-op Industrial Estate, Mathura Road/ 22A, Janpath, New Delhi CITYSCAN SPEAK : The current flagship model of the Jaguar range is a tasteful mix of technology, power and class. While it has an aluminium body making it very light for a car of its class and very responsive in any engine variant, it has the interior quality that most of its German rivals have hard time matching. After the Indian takeover of JLR, all the models have shown exceptional design progress and the XJ is no exception.
12|CityScan|APRIL 2013
Mercedes-Benz G-Class
T
he longest serving vehicle in series production- the Mercedes-Benz G-Class, is now the youngest vehicle in its portfolio. It is equipped with even more luxurious interiors, discreet modifications in design and styling, enhanced safety features, new infotainment system and a powerful 5.5 litre engine. The vehicle is impressed by the illuminated AMG stainless steel door sill panels, seats in leather, leather-trimmed dashboards and multi-function steering wheel as well as door centre panels in ruffled leather. The standard-fit chrome package with designo trim in a choice of three versions further complement the dynamic impression created by the interior which can also be specified with carbon-fiber trim. TECHNICALITIES : With a rated output of 400 KW (544 hp), the G 63 AMG develops maximum torque of 760 Nm yet remains extremely efficient. There is an AMG exhaust system with twin chromed side tailpipes, AMG 5-twin-spoke light-alloy wheels in titanium grey with red painted brake calipers and 275/50 R20 tyres. PRICE : Rs. 1,45,77,000 WHERE : T & T Motors, Okhla Industrial Area, Phase 3/ Marina Arcade, Connaught Place/ 9, Shivaji Marg, Moti Nagar, New Delhi CITYSCAN SPEAK : Not many cars survive the test of time as the Mercedes G class has. Originally developed for the military, this go-anywhere vehicle has a fan following like no other. Currently one of the most powerful SUV in production in the world is the G63 AMG, although on the nearside of 3 tonnes, the car defies its bulk every time you step on the gas pedal. The G class offers a unique blend of power, toughness and style.
lifestyle buzz cars & bikes Gurkha
F
orce Motors launches Gurkha, the world’s first E.O.V (Extreme Off roader Vehicle) 4x4x4. The Gurkha has reinforced tubular chassis that can withstand torsional stresses which the vehicle gets subjected to in extreme off-road situations. The improved independent front suspension with a solid torsion bar has been further fine-tuned to enhance the riding comfort; essential for an enhanced off-road experience. This rugged looking off-roader provides all the new age comforts and conveniences like sporty and sturdy instrument cluster, dual toned interiors, ergonomically designed dashboard and front facing luxurious reclining seats. TECHNICALITIES : The Gurkha is powered by the 2.6 liter Mercedes OM 616 derived turbo charged intercooled engine. This proven engine produces 82 Ps @ 3200 rpm, has a torque of 230 Nm @ 1800-2000 rpm, and is mated to a 5 speed synchromesh transmission with Hi - Lo option on transfer case. This combined with the differential locks on both front and rear axles, makes it capable of extreme off-roading. PRICE : Gurkha 4X2 - Rs 6.25 lakhs, Gurkha 4x4 - Rs 8.35 lakhs, Gurkha 4x4 -Rs 8.50 lakhs WHERE : Force Motors dealers across Delhi/ NCR CITYSCAN SPEAK : Gurkha shares the foundation with the Mercedes G wagon, one of the oldest design production vehicles in the world primarily because of its bullet proof reliability and off-road ability. The Gurkha shares one vital component with the G wagon and that’s the full mechanical diff-locks which puts it ahead of any other car in its class, off-road this system ensures the power is not wasted in spinning the wheel with no traction. However a relatively small interior, boxy design and low power output means the competition has an edge there but almost none of them will match it off-road.
Fortuner TRD Sportivo
T
oyota Kirloskar Motor (TKM) introduced the Fortuner, with a 5 speed automatic transmission. The new transmission provides enhanced drive feel and comfort. Looking at the overwhelming demand and popularity of the Fortuner TRD Sportivo, the limited edition has now been introduced as a regular grade. Fortuner TRD Sportivo is aerodynamically designed by TRD. The Fortuner TRD Sportivo is for all those SUV enthusiasts looking out for a sporty look. The Fortuner TRD Sportivo comes with the features like - Aerodynamically designed front bumper spoiler, aerodynamically designed rear roof spoiler, stylishly designed TRD Sportivo emblem and rear bumper spoiler. TECHNICALITIES : Fortuner TRD Sportivo is 3.0-litre, turbo-charged diesel engine capable of 168bhp and 343Nm of torque and a fuel efficiency figure of 11.88kpl. PRICE : 4x2 AT (with 5 speed) – Rs. 22,33,000, 4x2 AT TRD Sportivo (with 5 speed) Rs. 22,93,000, 4x2 MT TRD Sportivo – Rs. 21,96,668 WHERE : Toyota dealers across Delhi/ NCR CITYSCAN SPEAK : The current favourite in the mid-size luxury SUV market now has a more user friendly version, given that most SUV users spend time on road and in cities, having an automatic transmission is a blessing especially considering the long throw and cumbersome shift of an SUV. Since the Fortuner is based on the Hilux platform which is currently one of the most reliable vehicles on road worldwide, Toyota has another winner in their line-up. APRIL 2013|CityScan|13
women fashion
THE WEEK THAT Ú MASABA GUPTA FOR SATYA PAUL THE DESIGNER The sprightly, young Mumbai-based designer, Masaba Gupta, has only a few seasons behind her but she brings her A-game to the table with her debut collection for the heritage label, Satya Paul, titled ‘Every Neon Counts’. THE SCENE Being the opening show of Wills India Fashion Week, there is a booming buzz amongst the assembles. THE EXPECTATION Satya Paul is renowned for its prints and Masaba for her playfulness and quirkiness. Hence, a younger, fresher take on age-old classics, like the printed silk sari were awaited. THE FOCUS FOR FALL A novel twist on the sari is advocated, worn either with suspenders or with unconventional blouses which sport crew necks and Peter Pan collars, along with fluorescent, urbanized prints, ranging from lipsticks to ink blots.
14|CityScan|APRIL 2013
THE POWER PICKS LIPSTICK JUNGLE DRESSES OR LIPSTICK SKY-SCRAPER PRINTED SARIS.
women fashion
AT WAS THE POWER PICKS THE LATTICE WEAVE SCARVES, THE BOXPLEATED LEHENGA SKIRT, AND THE ASYMMETRICAL SARI BLOUSE.
WE BRING YOU SOME OF THE STAND-OUT MOMENTS FROM THE BEST SHOWS AT WILLS INDIA FASHION WEEK FALL/WINTER 2013-2014 by CAROL SINGH
Ú ABRAHAM & THAKORE
THE DESIGNER The duo have long been considered industry stalwarts excelling in areas of traditional textiles and contemporary Indianwear. This season at the behest of the Ministry of Textiles, A&T are showing their first-ever bridal collection, called ‘Shaadi Redux’. THE SCENE A&T loyalists are many among the media and industry-insiders. Almost everyone has their own bet on how they will show their version of wedding ‘bling’. Conversations are feverishly hopeful. THE EXPECTATION The duo are known for their love of minimalism and their attention to detail and craftsmanship. A reinvention of some conventional Indian silhouettes is envisioned, much like the angrakha, dhoti and lungi that were seen in seasons past. An eye is also kept out for the accessories, namely the belts and shoes, since the measured knack of styling, usually taken care of by their third half, Kevin Nigli, is usually spot-on. THE FOCUS FOR FALL On subtle sheen, and zari woven textiles as the new order of the day, when it comes to celebratory attire. Colours ranging from jamun and sindoori red to chocolate and charcoal. APRIL 2013|CityScan|15
women fashion
Ú TARUN TAHILIANI THE DESIGNER Not many need an introduction to one of the most sought-after couturiers in our country, Tarun Tahiliani. He returns after skipping a season to showcase his RTW line, ‘Kumbhback’ inspired by the mystics of the Maha Kumbh Mela. THE SCENE Roaring anticipation turns into exasperation as the crowd waits on at least 45 minutes past the official time on the invite. However, there are murmurs of a liveperformance, a band called Sounds of Isha, lend their beats to the show. THE EXPECTATION Drapes and more drapes of the best kind. Since the inspiration is one which supplies Mr Tahiliani enough fodder to feed his inherent inclinations. A refreshed revisit of pre-stitched saris and moulded dresses are expected. THE FOCUS FOR FALL A dark, brooding sensuality is pronounced. Gone are the ecrus and creams that usually pervade his shows, spicy shades of cinnamon, turmeric and saffron usurp the runway. Languid silhouettes are lifted with only accents of embroidery to maintain the TT touch. 16|CityScan|APRIL 2013
THE POWER PICKS T H E D R A P E D WO O L DRESSES THAT HIT MIDCALF, THE OFF SHOULDER SARI BLOUSE, AND THE B L ACK M A S CU L I N E , DR M A RT EN - INSPIR ED SANDALS.
women fashion
Ú RAJESH PRATAP SINGH THE DESIGNER The undisputed king of Indian RTW, Rajesh Pratap Singh returns to the runway with a collection in collaboration with The Woolmark Company, simply christened “Those ****** North Indian Winters”. THE SCENE As the second last show of the third day, the energies are a bit drained, but everyone looks forward to a Pratap show no matter what. Shrivelled trees sprout on the catwalk with dried leaves strewn everywhere, if only we knew then that there would also be bits of fuzzy, spray snow at the end of it all. THE EXPECTATION Not many other Indian designers can cut a jacket like Pratap, so naturally the most anticipated area is outerwear in his preferred palette of inky blues and blacks with hints of scarlet. THE FOCUS FOR FALL On cocoon-cut coat dresses, and biker jackets in felted wool fabrics, satin, leather with hints of ikat and hounds-tooth. Zipper details and circular pockets were highlight details. THE POWER PICKS THE LEATHER BOMBER WITH A DOGTOOTH INSERTED BACK, SUPPLE WOOL JACKET DRESSES, AND CABLE KNIT JUMPERS. APRIL 2013|CityScan|17
women fashion
Ú SANCHITA THE DESIGNER The Bangalore-based designer is famous for her whimsical designs that incorporate easy silhouettes and chunky embellishments. Her fall collection, named ‘An Imaginary New World’ is inspired by the tales of the Panchatantra. THE SCENE Even though her show is the first of a packed Saturday schedule, the attendance held no witness of this. She is showing her line with fellow female designer, Rina Dhaka, so it is no surprise that the front row looks as covetable as the catwalk. THE EXPECTATION Colour, quirk, and adornments are Sanchita’s USP’s and she likes to stick to them. However, most people can’t contain themselves to see what she has in store for the accessories; will they be as zany and delightful as always? THE FOCUS FOR FALL There is a call to the wild with many a references to flora and fauna, be it monkey motifs, lush leafy fringes hanging off tops and hems of skirts or fiercely vivid florals that came sparkling and printed on dresses and separates alike. Jane of the Jungle will be proud.
18|CityScan|APRIL 2013
THE POWER PICKS THE ANIMAL MOTIF TEE’S, THE FOOTWEAR SPANGLED IN GLITTERY BUGS, AND THE SKIRTS WITH BEJEWELLED BLOSSOMS. (AND THE MENSWEAR, ALL OF IT, IF YOU ARE HUNTING OUT SOMETHING FOR YOUR BETTER HALF, OR EVEN IF YOU WANT TO ACQUIRE A FEW OVERSIZED PIECES FOR HITS OF ANDROGYNY!)
women fashion
Ú MANISH ARORA
THE DESIGNER The man needs no introduction. One of the only Indian designers to have garnered immense international acclaim, Manish Arora returns to India after years of shows in Paris, this time with a collection inspired by the Burning Man festival in Nevada, USA. THE SCENE The week is finally drawing to a close, but everyone’s energies are restored with a bar set-up outside the main show area, and there is a happy hustle going about. The ramp is luxuriously glossy and there is a psy-trance band down from France called Hilight Tribe, ready to roll out its tunes for the show-enthralling! THE EXPECTATION After years of showing Paris, Arora's return to the Indian scenario is much anticipated. Kaleidoscopic colour, out-there embellishments, and futuristic shapes are envisioned for a journey through fantasy-land, for Arora's shows almost always render an experience not easily forgotten. THE FOCUS FOR FALL There is an obvious reference to jewellery, owing to perhaps Arora's collaboration on precious gems with Amrapali earlier this year. The idea of adornment is taken forward with ensembles in dark navy and black, which are spangled in sequins and look as if they stumbled out of a treasure box. Digital prints and dyed furs, which are Arora's mainstays since the past few years make a stellar statement by themselves.
THE POWER PICK THE ZANY, MULTICOLOURED GOBS OF GOLD JEWELS ON OFFER (THOUGH THEY HAVE BEEN SELLING OUT LIKE HOT CAKES, YOU BETTER JET TO GET YOUR SET!) AND THE UBER-GRAPHIC DIGI-PRINT SEPARATES. APRIL 2013|CityScan|19
men fashion
SEW FAR SEW GOOD
Gen Next Designers in Menswear So sober and settled was the world of men’s fashion that it truly needed an upheaval. Spread collars, Hawaiian and floral shirts, flared trousers, and the loose, baggy silhouettes of the early 90’s giving way to slimmer suit profiles…we’ve seen them all. A young brigade of fashion designers has now emerged to bring to the new age gentleman a sartorial individuality that takes no heed of conventional style norms. We profile five creative masters in Delhi to know what the future of menswear holds.
ATSU by Atsu Sekhose
Hunt for the experimental
H Reach him by appointment only at A+M studio, Building No. 11, Dayal Bagh, Near Maharashtra Bank, Faridabad or pick up his pieces from www.perniaspopupshop.com and Ogaan stores. Favourite era in men’s fashion
1940’s Hollywood classic Best dressed celebrity man
David Beckham and Saif Ali Khan 20|CityScan|APRIL 2013
e was apprenticed with leading fashion designer Tarun Tahiliani and Spanish high street brand Zara for a good number of years before launching his eponymous labelAtsu in 2006. Hailing from Nagaland, he was always a fashion conscious kid. The NIFT graduate is known for his classic styles that are very wearable. “As a shopper, I also feel that India doesn’t have a huge market for men’s clothes that are off the edge. When I launched my line of stylised menswear in Spring/Summer 2012, my friends were ecstatic and gave me an excellent response. That collection was all in the shades of pastel, inspired by flowers and included digitally printed shirts.” Atsu’s major concern while designing a garment is the sizing pattern and the fit. “My best advice to men would be finding the right fit. For instance, so many men go wrong with the length of their trousers…and then overweight guys think baggy clothes would make them appear slimmer. They need a guide to teach them the art of right sizing.” The latest Spring Summer 2012 collection is eclectic with exceedingly individual designs. “Nothing is trend driven. I design for a man with his own sense of style. The product would be such that you would be able to team it up with your regular Zara trousers or Kenzo shirt,” says Atsu. According to him, Indian men just need to become more experimental.
men fashion
Geeta Chopra
Powering the individual personal statement
G Reach her at The Visaya, N 82, Panchshila Park, New Delhi Favourite era in men’s fashion
Now
Best dressed celebrity man
Sunil Sethi
eeta Chopra wanted to beautify everything around her. It all started with decorating homes to now decorating people. In the business of home furnishing and textiles for 15 years, Geeta developed a unique talent of surpassing dimension with fabrics by building layers, a controlled and sophisticated colour palate and an exalting adherence to quality. The designer took pleasure in designs that emphasised subtle and controlled craftsmanship and therefore felt that her design style would work well in menswear. And it did.“The man of this time is well travelled, confident of himself and is not afraid to wear his style on his sleeve. Today’s styling allows men the room to experiment with their own interpretations of fashion, and contemporary design is now more a fusion of east and west,” says the designer. “I believe that design is meant to enhance the positive aspects of our personality. It should infuse rhythm and confidence in the wearer and never overpower the individual personal statement. My designs are simple and the emphasis is primarily on fine lines and quality finishing.” Talking about the leap in men’s fashion, she says, “Men fashion is going to grow in importance as more and more men enjoy shopping for themselves. The leap has happened in the past two decades in sync with the quantum leap in technology.” Geeta avoids accessorizing her clients since she believes that it undermines the wearer’s personality. “Be sure not to overstate the spectacles, sunglasses, watch, bracelet, chain, cufflinks etc. It’s better to wear interesting socks and pocket squares instead.”
APRIL 2013|CityScan|21
men fashion
HUEMN by Shyma Shetty and Pranav Mishra
Wearing their attitude, quite literally
D
esigners Shyma Shetty, a Mangalorean from Bangalore and Pranav Mishra, a Brahmin from Lucknow are NIFT graduates who believe that “If clothes maketh the man, he would cease to exist when he undresses”. While comfort and detail in design are paramount for this duo, they tell us that “Fashion has made a visible shift from the previous seasons into softer and more rounded silhouettes and stark basic Reach them at their flagship store contrasts in print and colour. There is also the much – Shop No. 3&4, Lower Ground, needed introduction of romantic pastels and softer mas- 9A Hauz Khas Village, New Delhi culine silhouettes in richer fabrics.” HUEMN depicted this shift in aesthetics through its Spring/Summer 2013 Extra edge line that comprised elegant, easy-wear clothing with Though focused on a core focus on colour. Colour has always been at the garments, Shyma and Pranav enjoy styling heart of HUEMN’s work. Every collection starts with accessories. They have a very strong colour story that takes them months to previously made leather research and generate. bags, gloves, collar “For this season, instead of the separates and men’s shoes forecast’s stark black and white con- that seamlessly translate trasts, we have played with severe every season’s sensibilities. contrasts of washed-out tones of co- Unique fashion quotient Colour lours that will translate into similar aesthetics. We are excited to introduce the new season’s set of HUEMN colours that include shades of English greens and powder blues.” The prêt line is simply not for the men who want to create an identity and image with the looks that they choose, instead it is sophisticated, easy-wear clothing for the self assured. Like they say, “It is the garment that picks you because of what you are about, and not the other way around. We believe that at HUEMN, the clothes are free. It is the design that you pay for, when you buy our product. Our costumers invest in our thought process and not in the product.”
DRVV by Dhruv Kapur
Designing an individual, unbounded by social constructs
D
hruv Kapur seems to have brought the world of critical theory into his designs. Confirming an interest in fashion at an early age, a degree in Economics from the London School of Economics and Political Science did not stop him from working in fashion. His label primarily uses natural fabrics and fine craftsmanship. Discussing the need for men’s fashion, he says, “Men’s fashion has never been ignored. Even before Parisian couture houses became the mainstay of fashion, Seville Row tailors have been held in the highest regard by the most discerning men.” Dhruv believes that “the latest international trends point to an ever narrowing gap between what is considered men’s and women’s wear.” Dhruv’s
Reach him at his studio in Lado Sarai/write in to sales@drvv.in or call (91) 991 020 3788 (DRVV) for any enquiries Favourite era in men’s fashion
We’re living in it
Unique fashion quotient
Androgyny of my garments
22|CityScan|APRIL 2013
men fashion
House of Couture by Jivjeet Singh creations are therefore essentially unisex and androgynous – this translates into a strong modern signature, suitable for individuals of either sex. “My speciality is providing a luxurious, well tailored, yet minimal feel to the garment to make it an object of desire for all.” His latest collection is inspired by postmodernist philosophy, in particular Friedrich Nietzsche’s ‘Beyond Good and Evil’. Designs that transcend all gender associations, these androgynous pieces in geometric silhouettes incorporating triangles and rectangles are a reflection of modern architecture. With ensembles following a monochromatic tone, the collection reflects a fine interplay between textures and weights. Use of natural silks and cottons gives the garments a luxurious feel. Queried on what to wear, Dhruv comments casually, “The most important thing about deciding what to wear is that you ought to be comfortable wearing it. The clothes you wear become a projection of your identity for the world to see. I wouldn’t want to dictate what everyone should wear, but even if you don’t care for fashion or style, always avoid bad odours, keep clean trimmed hair and choose your footwear wisely.”
Dressing corporate India: one at a time
I
magine Barney Stinson being so horrified at the kind of suits men put on in New York that he decides to create one himself to save the dignified garment’s identity. This is precisely what happened with Jivjeet Singh, an erstwhile banker. “Suits are a part of everyday life and for most of my colleagues, the suit had lost its charm. It has become a uniform. A suit in itself is such a Reach him by appointment powerful tool at the disposal of men and the fact only. FF-106, Moulsary Arcade, that this is grossly ignored and overlooked really DLF Phase-3, Gurgaon, call gets on my nerves. There came a point when I 9818621624 knew that this was my calling,” explains Jivjeet. His ultimate aim is to inculcate in men the habit Favourite era in men’s fashion of dressing sharply in their professional and per- 1980’s Best dressed celebrity man sonal spaces. Jivjeet’s USP lies in the bespoke tailoring he Saif Ali Khan provides. Above all, he also partakes in the thought process that helps his client shed light on his individual style. “Things have changed today. From young guns to middle aged entrepreneurs, everyone wants to look spiffy. They may not know what’s good for them in terms of style but they are aware that it exists!” While his design philosophy remains keeping it simple, Jivjeet suggests bright coloured trousers in cotton or linen with contrasting colour socks teamed with loafers for summer 2013. For coming winters, he foresees big checks, herringbone and tweed jackets, double breasted suits and three piece suits. “Tuxedos will take a back seat,” he claims. “Men have only just begun to experiment with their looks and clothes. This year we will see the revival of retro-chic. So don’t be afraid to try a bright colour.” u by VARALIKA VIJ APRIL 2013|CityScan|23
him & her fashion
RELAXED AND COOL SUMMER SELECTIONS Keeping you au-courant WHITE TOM FORD LOAFERS PRICE: On request
MARKS & SPENCER AUTOGRAPH TOP WENDELL RODRICKS
SALVATORE FERRAGAMO
PRICE: ` 3,799
BES
A TV
LUE
SALVATORE FERRAGAMO IVORY LINEN AND COTTON BLEND SKIRT PRICE: On request
ALLEN SOLLY LACE DRESS
PRICE: ` 2,499
ALLEN SOLLY PURE WHITE SHIRT PRICE: ` 1,999
24|CityScan|APRIL 2013
MARKS & SPENCER BLUE HARBOUR LUXURY CHINO SHORTS
ZARA WHITE TOP WITH CONTRASTING PIPING
PRICE: ` 1,999
PRICE: ` 2,750
him & her fashion BLUE
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O ICK
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H ALLEN SOLLY BRIGHT HUED SHIRT PRICE: ` 1,999
MARKS & SPENCER INDIGO SKIRT
TOMMY HILFIGER
GUCCI
PRICE: ` 2,799
TOMMY HILFIGER SASHA SHORTS PRICE: ` 2,999
GIORGIO ARMANI LIGHT COTTON CARDIGAN PRICE: ` 79,000
ALLEN SOLLY SUMMER TOP AND LINEN JACKET PRICE: ` 1,999 and ` 4,999
WHERE Allen Solly: Select CITYWALK, Saket/ F-13, Connaught Place/ District Centre, Janakpuri, New Delhi Canali: DLF Emporio, Vasant Kunj, New Delhi Marks & Spencer: H Block, Connaught Place/ DLF Promenade, Vasant Kunj/ West Gate Mall, Rajouri Garden, New Delhi Pepe Jeans: 10-F, Connaught Place/ Select CITYWALK, Saket/ West Gate Mall, Rajouri Garden, New Delhi
PEPE JEANS DENIM FROCK WITH A BELT
PEPE JEANS DENIM SHIRT PRICE: ` 1,799
Tomford: DLF Emporio, Vasant Kunj, New Delhi Tommy Hilfiger: Select CITYWALK, Saket/ Ambience Mall, Vasant Kunj, New Delhi / Metropolitan Mall, GurgaonMehrauli Road, Gurgaon
PRICE: ` 2,799 APRIL 2013|CityScan|25
him & her fashion COTTON
MARKS & SPENCER AUTOGRAPH TOP
MARKS & SPENCER NORTH COAST SHIRT
PRICE: ` 3,799
FENDI
CANALI
PRICE: ` 2799
TOMMY HILFIGER ROCK SHORT PRICE: ` 3,999
PEPE JEANS FLORAL SHIRT
PEPE JEANS STRIPED COTTON SHIRT PRICE: ` 1,799
PRICE: ` 1,299
CANALI PURE COTTON NECKERCHIEF WITH MICRO POLKA DOT PATTERN PRICE: On request
ZARA SHIRT WITH TUCKS AT THE BACK PRICE: ` 2,790
KAZO VINTAGE STRIPE RAYON GATHERED SKIRT PRICE: ` 1,790 26|CityScan|APRIL 2013
him & her fashion LINEN
LUX
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MARKS & SPENCER LINEN TROUSERS
PRICE: On request
PRICE: ` 2,199
CANALI
LECOANET HEMANT
SALVATORE FERRAGAMO TURQUOISE LINEN BLAZER
MARKS & SPENCER AUTOGRAPH DRESS PRICE: ` 4,499
ALLEN SOLLY SEA GREEN LINEN SHIRT PRICE: ` 1,999
CANALI PURE LINEN SCARF PRICE: On request
PEPE JEANS SOOTHING GREY SHORTS
WRAP STUDIO REVERSIBLE JACKET PRICE: ` 7,895
ZARA STRIPED LINEN T-SHIRT PRICE: ` 2,790
PRICE: ` 1,999
WHERE Allen Solly: Select CITYWALK, Saket/ F-13, Connaught Place/ District Centre, Janakpuri, New Delhi Kazo: Select CITYWALK, Saket/ Pacific Mall, Tagore Garden/ West Gate Mall, Rajouri Garden, New Delhi Marks & Spencer: H Block, Connaught Place/ DLF Promenade, Vasant Kunj/ West Gate Mall, Rajouri Garden, New Delhi
Pepe Jeans: 10-F, Connaught Place/ Select CITYWALK, Saket/ West Gate Mall, Rajouri Garden, New Delhi Salvatore Ferragamo: DLF Emporio, Vasant Kunj, New Delhi Wrap Studio: 116, Shahpur Jat, New Delhi Zara: Select CITYWALK, Saket/ DLF Promenade, Vasant Kunj, New Delhi
APRIL 2013|CityScan|27
women accessories
INSPIRED BY THE UNIVERSE
NECKPIECE WITH MULTI STRINGS OF RUBY AND CORAL GEMSTONES PRICE: ` 4,75,000. WHERE: Kiwi by Musskan
Dr. Prem Kumar Sharma – astrologer, numerologist, palmist and vastu consultant, tells us about the precious stones that complement your zodiac sign and how they help us find peace and success ARIES AND SAGITTARIUS Yellow Sapphire
CANCERIANS AND PISCEANS Red Coral
CANCER Provides financial gains and self confidence. PISCES Provides lots of mental peace and monetary gains.
ARIES Enhances the luck for females and adds to the happiness of the spouse. SAGITTARIUS Helps improve one’s demeanor and magnetically brings confidence to one’s persona.
RING WITH ROUND AND SQUARE BAGUETTE SHAPED DIAMONDS
STONES AND CORAL EARRINGS
PRICE: ` 55,477. WHERE: Pure Gold Jewellers
PRICE: ` 4,700. WHERE: Voylla.com
RED CORAL DIAMOND RING PRICE: ` 175,000. WHERE: Kiwi by Musskan
GEMINI AND VIRGOS Emerald
MULTI HUED BRACELET PRICE: ` 1,55,477. WHERE: Amaris Jewels by Prerna Rajpal
YELLOW SAPPHIRE BRIOLETTE PRICE: ` 4,40,000. WHERE: Mirari
GEMINI Lucky for it gives them wisdom and enhances their communication skills, in turn giving good results on the work front. VIRGO Good health and professional gains.
RING HANDCRAFTED IN 18K GOLD WITH HEART SHAPE EMERALD PRICE: ` 8,18,000. WHERE: Mirari 28|CityScan|APRIL 2013
WHITE AND GOLD DIAMOND DROP EARRINGS WITH EMERALD PRICE: ` 6,05,000. WHERE: Annu Chadha
women accessories TAURANS AND CAPRICORNS
LIBRANS
DIAMONDS
Blue Sapphire and Emerald
TAURUS Works well for this sun sign and gives them happiness on the family and financial front. CAPRICORN Brings overall peace and happiness to this zodiac.
LIBRA A combination of blue sapphire and emerald prevents the Librans from making mistakes and ensures peace and luck.
FLORAL PATTERN CHANDELIERS PRICE: On request. WHERE: Entice Jewellery
DIAMOND AND SOUTH SEA PEARL DROP EARRINGS PRICE: On request. WHERE: Neety Singh
SAPPHIRE RING IN WHITE GOLD SUPPORTED BY 64 DIAMONDS MARQUEE AND ROUND DIAMOND BRACELET
PIC
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THE
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PRICE: ` 215,000. WHERE: Amaris
LEOS AND SCORPIONS
AQUARIANS
Rubies
White Sapphire AQUARIUS Brings thoughtfulness, financial gains and family happiness to Aquarians.
LEO Sure to bring good luck, prosperity and family peace. SCORPIO Brings happiness from children and professional gains for the Scorpions.
PRICE: ` 2,16,897. WHERE: Pure Gold Jewellers
SAPPHIRE RING IN WHITE GOLD PRICE: On request. WHERE: Pure Gold Jewellers
WHERE Amaris jewels by Prerna Rajpal: B-32, The Pinnacle, DLF Phase V, Gurgaon/C-36, Gulmohar Park, New Delhi Jewels by Annu Chadha: A-8, South Ex. Part-1,New Delhi Dolly Oberoi: B-47, Greater Kailash 1, New Delhi Entice Jewellery: M-39, M block market, GK 1, New Delhi Forevermark: All outlets of Khanna and Hazoorilal Jewellers across Delhi/NCR
DROP EARRINGS
Kiwi by Musskan: 253,Shahpur Jat, New Delhi
PRICE: On request. WHERE: Forever Mark
RUBY EARRINGS WITH BLACK AND WHITE DIAMONDS PRICE: Rs 165,000. WHERE: Amaris
RUBY AND DIAMOND RING SET IN 22 CARAT GOLD PRICE: On request. WHERE: Neety Singh
Mirari: M-1, M block market, Greater Kailash 1, New Delhi
ROUND DIAMOND RING WITH WHITE SAPPHIRE AS CENTER STONE PRICE: ` 145,000. WHERE: Kiwi by Musskan
Neety Singh: World Spa, Sector 30, Gurgaon, Haryana, by appointment only. (For appointments contact 9891376999) Pure Gold Jewellers: M-26, M block market, Greater Kailash 1, New Delhi
APRIL 2013|CityScan|29
women accessories
MAKE-UP FADS THIS FALL The Peach & the Nude
ORIFLAME POWER SHINE SATIN NUDE LUSTRE LIPSTICK PRICE: ` 398
COLORBAR VELVET MATT BARE LIP SHADE PRICE: ` 250
INGLOT NUDE LIPSTICK AND EYE LINER PRICE: ` 750 and ` 650
ORIFLAME GOLD BRONZING PEARLS PRICE: ` 990 each
LANCOME L’ABSOLU NU LIPSTICKS PRICE: ` 1,750
M
H UST
AV
E LAKME ENRICH LIP COLOUR AND EYE-QUARTETDESERT ROSE PRICE: ` 225 and ` 450
M.A.C PRESSED PIGMENT IN BLONDE STREAK AND STRENGTH NAIL LACQUER IN MUSCLE TONE PRICE: ` 1,450 and ` 950
WHERE
Colorbar: Colorbar retail outlets across Delhi/ NCR Inglot: Select CITYWALK, Saket/ DLF Promenade, Vasant Kunj and other exclusive stores across Delhi/NCR Lakme: Lakme retail stores across Delhi/NCR Lancome: Select CITYWALK, Saket, New Delhi M.A.C: Select CITYWALK, Saket and Ambience Mall, Vasant Kunj, New Delhi Oriflame: Contact your nearest Oriflame consultant or SMS Oriflame to 59994
30|CityScan|APRIL 2013
women accessories
Makeup trends by
Mickey Contractor
THE LATEST – SS2013 With the change in season, our wardrobe changes and so does the makeup kit. Have a look at the makeup rulebook for Spring/Summer 2013 R The skin should be dewey and wet looking. Pay special attention to moisturising and prepping. R Minimal foundation and matting down the T-zone only is recommended this season. R Bronzing the modern way is also a big trend for SS2013, which includes highlighting the cheeks with beiges and pale gold’s and contouring with tan or deep brown cheek colours. R We have also seen that deep peaches, pink and blues are also big favourites on eyes and in trend this summer for the adventurous. R Lips are mainly nude or just can be left conditioned. Other extreme is matte heavily pigmented mouths.
APRIL 2013|CityScan|31
him & her
TRICKING THE HEAT In your skin care kit this summer LUSH BREATH OF FRESH AIR SKIN TONER AND COAL FACE CLEANSER PRICE: ` 840 for 250 ml and ` 690 for 100 grams
FOREST ESSENTIALS FACIAL TONIC MIST PURE ROSE WATER PRICE: ` 550 for 100 ml
ST MU
KAYA SKIN CLINIC SKIN AWAKENING RINSE PRICE: ` 1,490 for 50 ml
ESTEE LAUDER DAY WEAR ADVANCED MULTIPROTECTION ANTI-OXIDANT CRÈME SPF 15 PRICE: ` 3,500
ORIFLAME NATURE SECRETS SHOWER GEL WITH MOISTURISING ALOE VERA & WATERMELON PRICE: ` 398 for 250 ml
L’OCCITANE ANGELICA UV SHIELD WITH SPF 40 AND IMMORTELLE PRECIOUS PROTECTION SPF 20 PRICE: ` 2,490 for 30 ml and ` 2,490 for 30 ml
SKEYNDOR REDNESS PREVENTING AFTER SHAVE CREAM FOR MEN AND THERMAL CLEANSING GEL FOR OIL PRONE SKIN PRICE: ` 1,140 for 100 ml and ` 1,340 for 250 ml 32|CityScan|APRIL 2013
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him & her
CLINIQUE SUPER CITY BLOCK OIL-FREE DAILY FACE PROTECTOR AND AFTER SUN RESCUE BALM
K PIC
OF
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PRICE: ` 1,050 and ` 1,600 for 150 ml
KIEHL’S FACIAL FUEL NO SHINE HYDRATOR AND ULTRA FACIAL OIL FREE CLEANSER FOR MEN
KAMA AYURVEDA HIMALAYAN DEODAR FACE CLEANSER FOR MEN
PRICE: ` 1,300 for 75 ml and ` 1,390 for 250 ml
PRICE: ` 540 for 100 ml.
WHERE Blossom Kochhar: Skin care stores across Delhi/NCR Clinique: Select CITYWALK, Saket, New Delhi Estee Lauder: Select CITYWALK, Saket, New Delhi Forest Essentials: Select CITYWALK/DLF Promenade/Khan Market/ Ambience Mall, Gurgaon Kama Ayurveda: Khan Market, New Delhi Kaya: Kaya Skin Clinics and Bars across Delhi/ NCR Kiehl’s: Khan Market/ Ambience Mall, Vasant Kunj, New Delhi
THE BODY SHOP POMEGRANATE FIRMING DAY LOTION SPF 15 FOR WOMEN AND ENERGETIC FACE PROTECTOR FOR MEN PRICE: ` 1,995 for 30 ml and ` 1,090 for 100 ml
NUETROGENA RAPID WRINKLE REPAIR MOISTURIZER WITH SPF 30
BLOSSOM KOCHHAR AROMA MAGIC SUNLIGHT SPRAY
PRICE: ` 700 for 29 ml
PRICE: ` 450 for 220 ml
L'Occitane: Select CITYWALK, Saket/ DLF Promenade, Vasant Kunj/ Khan Market, New Delhi Lush: Select CITYWALK, Vasant Kunj, New Delhi Neutrogena: Nuetrogena counters and large chemist outlets across Delhi/NCR Oriflame: Contact your nearest Oriflame consultant or SMS Oriflame to 599994 Skeyndor: Leading salons and dermatologists like Affinity, Dr. Ritu, Persona and Evada in Delhi/NCR The Body Shop: The Body Shop outlets across Delhi/NCR
APRIL 2013|CityScan|33
home interiors
SEEKING ORIENTAL FURNITURE ON MG ROAD by SARA DEWAN SURI
A guide to Oriental Artefacts and Buddha Sculptures
Wooden reclined chair in Oriental style and bronze Buddha statue (World Bazaar) 34|CityScan|APRIL 2013
Gold plated Buddha wall hanging (Asian Treasures)
home interiors
G
Beautifully crafted stone Buddha statue with gold leaf detailing (Asian Treasures)
hitorni, on the Mehrauli-Gurgaon (MG) Road is referred to as Delhi’s ‘Furniture Paradise’ and is where one can find home décor products in any shape, line, texture or colour. There are a total of about 150 shops on either side of the road selling cabinets, lights, dressers, wall hangings, sculptures, statues and even outdoor furniture. The stretch itself is no longer than two kilometres but its extensive variety of furniture and home décor shops places MG Road firmly in our must-visit check list. MG Road looks like a single main road bustling with people, all with plans to build new houses or renovate old ones. There are new and interesting furniture stores, displaying trends that mix transitional and informal looks with a broad assortment of colours alongside large branded outlets such as OMA, FurnitureWalla and Wicker World. And of course there are innumerable other smaller boutiques and shops squeezed next to each other. Furniture trends over the years have been changing with every new idea and design, resulting in the revamping of this market into a linear progression of similarly styled shops one after the other. On a Sunday morning visit, I anticipated spending a couple of hours to buy a house-warming gift but ended up staying the whole day, overwhelmed by options and unable to help picking up items for my own home as well. I was completely fascinated to see the sudden influx of South East Asian and Oriental furniture imported from Thailand, Burma and Indonesia which is now tending to dominate the market. Stores like
The World Bazaar have come up selling furniture and home décor items inspired by different parts of the world. If South East Asia is the theme you are looking at for your living room, then this outlet with its fabulous selection is exactly the place you must visit. Here, among other things, one can find a variety of Buddhist sculptures ranging from ` 15, 000 to ` 35, 000. House of Oriental Artifacts (Shop No. 842) has Oriental furniture from ` 1,500 to ` 1, 45, 000 and offers a great variety of styles in sculpture to wall hangings, with a price range for every pocket. The artifacts range from the naturally rustic to gold plated. There are a number of different elements to oriental design wherein a basic approach could be as simple as placing an Oriental rug under a dining room table and pairing it with a kimono belt (called an obi) as a table runner. Or the styling could be flamboyant with wall murals in bold painted designs often featuring reds, gold and black. Typically made of rosewood, Oriental furniture is heavily lacquered over skillfully painted scenes leaving no customer wanting to walk out empty handed from this two-storey showroom. As lunch hour came and I was no closer to being done exploring Ghitorni, I found a small restaurant called Kashmiri Kitchen tucked right into the middle of the market. I enjoyed a plate of Rista and Gushtaba and couldn’t be happier. Who knew that in midst of this array of oriental furniture I would be able to find authentic and mouthwatering Kashmiri food? Moving on, the item that I noticed in almost every second shop was the Buddha statue, the demand for which has multiplied over the APRIL 2013|CityScan|35
home interiors
Variety of South East Asian sculptures (World Bazaar)
past two years. Shops such as Singapore Styles and Asian Treasures cater to such client interests. Navin Handicrafts (Shop No. 348) has extremely artistic sculptures for much cheaper prices with the most expensive piece being priced ` 20, 000 and the cheapest ` 500. Navin Handicrafts has its products made in Rajasthan. Says Navin Jain, the owner, “The demand for the Buddha statues has increased over the past two years. We did not keep Buddha statues four years ago and the only religious statues that used to sell were those of Ganesh.” The Buddha statues can be found in various avatars and postures but a popular choice for altars is that of the Earth Witness in which the Buddha is seen with one hand reaching for the ground since the
earth was witness to his enlightenment. The Laughing Buddha is also one of the more popular symbols used by feng shui consultants for enhancing good luck and wealth, along with the Medicine Buddha a semi-legendary Buddha who represents the healing nature of the Buddha’s teachings. Statues of Tara, Sariputra, Moggallana, and Maya Devi are also popularly found in stone, brass or even wood. Singapore Imperial Touch (Shop No. 415) also offers customers a wide range of items. The most prominent colour used in their furniture is red, a sign of good luck in Chinese culture. Yellow is another commonly used colour for interiors, and blue and white are used most often for traditional accessories. Traditional Indonesian furniture featuring hand carved designs from bold, darkly stained woods such as teak and mahogany are also available. An important tip to keep in mind is that most middle range shops have similar sculptures imported from South East Asian countries and after a point, they tend to look repetitive especially if you are searching in the price range of ` 3,000 to ` 15,000. Without a bigger budget, anything unique would be hard to find. Casa Paradox by Raseel Gujral (The Gallery) is one store which is expensive but has more exclusive items ranging from soft furnishings to furniture and home décor items that are a class apart with their sophisticated, artistic and unique designs. With the growing influence of Buddhist art, the impact of globalisation and the increasing spread of South East Asian culture, this is a furniture market that can help make you feel as if you’re in Naypyidaw or Bangkok rather The Renard, a South East Asian traditional musical instrument (Asian Treasures) sipping tea in your living room in Delhi. u
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www.letternote.com
come see us at
tHe letternote store
16A, HAuz kHAs villAge, delHi & sf-65, dlf gAlleriA, gurgAon
Also available at www.letternote.com and select retail outlets across India. For corporate orders and inquiries, contact us at +91-9811349985 or info@letternote.com
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home interiors
Get your home ready for
SUMMER
Bring the outdoors in
Fill up some vases with your favourite cuttings. If real flowers are a chore to acquire, there are many natural looking artificial options in the market. FlowerForever is one of the recent brands that present natural looking silk flowers in the most realistic floral arrangements imaginable. Classical pedestals, planters, urns and columns are other
Bird of Paradise spray orange blooms by Address Home
After keeping covers on during the freezing months of Dilli ki sardi, summer invites us city dwellers to crack open the windows and invite the warm weather in. Whether you have the budget to do structural updates or just enough to make little modifications, check out these four simple summer decorating ideas to make your home airy and light. Lips white vases by Address Home
Butterfly beauty chair – Tigerly by Aparna 38|CityScan|APRIL 2013
options. These are antique-style reproductions of fibreglass in a wide variety of shapes and sizes and are perfect for displaying a statue, an arrangement or a vase of your favourite selections. Bubble Batra, Managing Director, One&Only - Legendary Furniture, suggests the installation of water bodies within homes to soften the effect of the heat. “A fountain can be very refreshing in enhancing the ambience of any place in summer time. There is a variety to choose from. If space allows, a floor fountain can be installed in any part of the house where it complements the décor. Wall fountains look very attractive and occupy very little space. A table fountain is a welcome alternative and its soft rippling sound Fuchsia print curtains by F&F can be very soothing to the ears.” “Another excellent way to feel cool and comfortable on hot summer days is to introduce indoor house plants. make you forget the heat but also be visually delightful. This bar Money plants, Areca palm, Jade and various species of Dracaena make could be floating above a summer garden with a seating area. A glass very good house plants for summers especially if they are planted folding door between the interior space and the terrace/garden adds in wooden planters,” he recommends. (Turn to next page to learn flexibility and openness to the overall design. how to care of the flora and fauna). Plant mindfully. Landscapes change so dramatically that what you plant today could look totally different in three years. It’s best to plant flowers to bring colour and life to your outdoor space. Creating a free and entertaining outdoor space can prove a blessing for you and your guests during summers. Pick weather-resistant materials for your open-air furniture and airy fabrics for other upholstery like If your house sports dark and heavy curtains, it’s time to bring in pillows and table mats. You could even hang a tropical hammock, fabrics like cotton, poplin, muslin, linen and voile. Nakul Khandelwal, and select a water feature. “One can keep some exotic pots in the Director, F&F, says, “Long curtains in plain or striped light cotton area. Pots could be in trendy colours such as yellow, parrot green, are a classic in summer. The colour should depend on the decor of turquoise, orange, etc.,” says Arjun Sodhi, Director at Sajavat Group. the room. Neon hues are very in and become a characteristic of Hardesh Chawla, Managing Director, Essentia Environments gives your room. Having plain voile behind your curtains can be another us a few tips on beautifying your surroundings this season: add-on. You draw the voile during the day while tying back the long Keep the surroundings natural and fill in bright colours similar curtains. Blinds in cotton work well too.” to the intense shades of garden leaves varying from green in summer Aparna, Owner, Tigerlily by Aparna, agrees, “Replace pleated, thick to yellow and red in autumn. velvet or silk drapes with simple and stylish roman blinds and/or Organise those barbeque summer evenings and buffet tables sheers in see-through materials to immediately lighten up the space.” on your terrace or garden, creating an entertainment bar zone, a gymnasium with an endless pool and a sauna which will not only If you are not ready for a big change like a change of wall paint, you Artificial flower arrangements by Flowers Forever can give your rooms a colour makeover by bringing in some accessories. Says Rajat Singhi, Creative Director, Address Home, “Introduce neutral spaces and furnishings with hints of yellow. Beat the heat by switching your heavy, warm winter bedding to light, airy, summer linens. Eco-friendly, organic cotton sheets with suzani prints will help create a summer time bedroom.” Arjun Sodhi adds, “Go for a light coloured rug. If your cushions are bright, go for pastel colour shades of rugs. This adds the dimension of texture to your setting. And add some bright abstract paintings to your living area.” A small change to your furniture can also help. As Aparna suggests, “A boring corner of any room can be given an instant makeover with a colourful and impactful statement chair. Use a nice chair, add a corner table with a vase of fresh cut flowers and the corner will get instantly transformed. Tigerlily by Aparna specializes in such statement pieces to transform drab spaces into real zingers.”u
Take the indoors out
Cheer up your windows
Colour makeover
APRIL 2013|CityScan|39
home interiors
SUMMER CARE OF PLANTS S by SYAMA BALBIR
The season of Spring / A new awakening Busy humanity on earth / As if it’s a new birth
pring, however is not forever! Summer is well on its way and nature seems extra alive. As summer starts to peak, plants start to feel the rigours of heat. For any gardener, this is a challenging time. The essential duties of a gardener to ensure that plants maintain their robust health are several: However summer care entails some special ones. The important duties in maintaining a good garden are A) Cleanliness B) Judicious watering C) Protection from heat D) Protection from diseases and pests These duties acquire a greater significance in summer.
A clean garden
A clean garden with a well kept lawn, free of weeds, well pruned shrubs and good hygiene leads to prevention of disease. Prevention is better than cure and well drained and well aerated soil is the first step. It is extremely important that the water in your garden drains off soon and there is no waterlogging in any part as summer is the ideal time for the growth of fungus and breeding of pests. In extreme cases waterlogging can even destroy large trees. Waterlogging not only helps proliferation of harmful micro-organisms but also causes physiological disorders. So proper drainage is of utmost importance even in summer. Weeds are a source of nutrition for unwanted harmful pests.
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ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Syama Balbir is a Post Graduate in Economics, and has taken to Horticulture in a big way. She is the Joint Secretary of All India Kitchen Garden, Secretary of the Chrysanthemum Society of India, Secretary of the Indian Bonsai Association, the Past President of the Delhi Chapter Ohara School of Ikebana and a Recording Secretary of Ikebana International. She is a professional in gardening, advices and trains, and imparts her innovative knowledge to use the resources in the most efficient way.
tobacco leaf sprays. They can be made by putting a handful of neem or tobacco leaves on boiled water and leaving it overnight. The infusion maybe strained and stored. One part of this infusion with four parts of water and a few drops of liquid soap maybe stirred well and sprayed. Use of chemical sprays must be avoided in summer. Haldi-water is a good fungicide.
Special care for indoor plants Therefore, de-weeding is an essential gardening operation. Keeping your implements clean and storing them well helps in preventing the spread of diseases.
Judicious watering
Watering is a skill and the health of your plant depends a great deal on proper watering. One needs to apply a great deal of judgment as more plants die in the hands of amateur gardeners due to overwatering. In summer one tends to overdo watering due to false notions. First rule of watering is to water well rather than dribble frequently. The correct technique is to water with a shower rather than with a naked hose to prevent soil erosion. In summer, water the plants in the evenings as evaporation is less and the plant can benefit comparatively. Spray water on the leaves to wash off the accumulated dust, which otherwise, would smother the plant, as the stomata through which the plant breathes, would get blocked. Water the paths or the grounds, to maintain a cool, moist atmosphere so loved by plants.
Protection from pests
To ensure pest free plants it is important to follow regular prophylactic measures of fungicide sprays as well as insecticide sprays. However, organic sprays are beneficial to the plants as well as to the environment. Some good sprays for insects are regular use of neem oil or
For the indoor plants, it is important to take them out after sunset and to water them thoroughly, spray their leaves and to leave them out overnight. Caution must be exercised to see that they are brought in before sunrise. This procedure maybe undertaken twice a week in summer. Indoor plants or those left in the verandah should be grouped together to maintain a level of humidity. To assist them further you may even moisten gunny bags and spread them under the pots to keep the roots cool. The feeder roots of large plants are not on the surface or near the trunk, so it is important to water 75cms away from the trunk. Watering near the stem would in fact lead to stem rot.
Special care for outdoor plants
Outdoor plants require special attention in summer. A green net maybe spread overhead to prevent scorching of leaves. This is of utmost importance for outdoor plants on terraces. It is also important to tie them to posts when the hot winds blow. To conserve water in summer, you may sink a suitable earthen pot with a minute hole, into the ground, near the plants, so that it keeps the soil moist. Mulching with dried leaves or growing sun hemp or dhaincha plants on the surface near the plants will not only conserve topsoil but will help to maintain moisture. Summer is long and harsh in North India, so a gardener can never rest in this period. It is of utmost importance to visit each section of your garden everyday. Any faults of omissions and commissions will be noticed and timely action would be taken. u APRIL 2013|CityScan|41
home interiors
PLANTER PUNCH
YUCCABE PLANTERS CUSTOMIZED STYLES, SIZES AND DESIGNS TO SUIT THE SPACE AND INTERIORS PRICE: Varies depending on the size, starting from ` 3,000
WORLD BAZAAR CAPI PLANTERS ARE ENTIRELY HANDMADE AND ARE IN DIFFERENT SHAPES AND STRUCTURES FROM MODERN TO CLASSIC PRICE: ` 3,000 onwards.
JABONG.COM GO FOR FUNKY COLOURS IN CERAMIC, IN SMALLER DESIGNS TO PLACE INDOORS PRICE: ` 600 onwards
WHERE Stone Art: 348 – MG Road, Sultanpur, New Delhi-110030. Call on 011-26802705 or 9718083611 or email stoneart@bbexports. com World Bazaar: 843/1, Mehrauli Gurgaon Road, Ghitorni, New Delhi. Contact on: +911 9811945621 Yuccabe Planters: Contact on 9958514555, 9213371506 or email yuccabeplanters@ gmail.com Jabong: www.jabong. com
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STONE ART A LARGE VARIETY OF PLANTERS AND TROUGHS IN DIFFERENT SIZES AND MATERIALS SUCH AS DHOLPUR PINK STONE AND GRANITE. PRICE: ` 9000 onwards, depending on the size and design detailing
APRIL 2013|CityScan|43
home interiors
DREAM BARS Buys for your Home
FENDI CASA HOLLYWOOD BAR CABINET WITH CRISTALLINO BAR STOOLS PORTSIDE CAFÉ FRAGILE BAR PRICE: Rs. 2,09,000. WHERE: Portside café, F 301, Lado Sarai, New Delhi
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PRICE: On request. WHERE: Terra Sans Home Couture, Paras Twin Towers, Sector-54, Golf Course Road, Gurgaon
home interiors
Expert SPEAK
VISIONNAIRE LARIX PIANO BAR PRICE: On request. WHERE: Visionnaire, The Gallery on MG, Gurgaon Mehrauli Road, New Delhi
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QUBOID DESIGN HOUSE FIESTA PRICE: On request. WHERE: Quboid Design House, 215, 2nd floor, South Point Mall, Golf Course Road, DLF Phase - 5, Gurgaon.
According to Dimple Kohli, owner, Quboid Design House, “A bar is a very beautiful feature inside your home. It is not the corner of your home where you have simply made the arrangement of a bit of furniture to just sit down and enjoy. It is a place where you spend quality time alone or with your friends. There are some points one must consider before setting up a bar in the home. First, you decide what size of bar you want according to the space available at your home. Second is to consider how many people you generally attend to entertain, so that seating is never a problem over the bar counter. Here it is also to be mentioned that standard width for a bar sitting, whether it is bar chair or bar stool is between 22” to 25”. Knowing the dimension is always better so that you could plan a bar beautifully with precision. As far as the standard width of the bar counter is concerned, it is 77”, but it depends entirely upon how wide you want your counter and space available in your home. Also, lobby, drawing room and lounge area are the best locations for setting up a bar. For stacking the bottle you can either have a bottle rack behind the bar counter or simply use the bar counter drawer deep enough to hold the bottles. You can put a wine chill, bar refrigerator, ice crusher, chopping board (as required) and use full accessories. A small sink with water tap should be within the bar and should not be avoided, but make this arrangement, less visible or hidden”.
ANSA INTERIORS INDIGO BAR PRICE: Rs. 10,00,000. WHERE: Ansa Interiors, 12, Community Center, 2nd Floor, Mayapuri Phase- 1, New Delhi
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home interiors
BAR STOOLS Requisites to complete your home bar
MAITLAND SMITH BAR STOOL IN DARK ANTIQUE LIDO FINISHED MAHOGANY
BOCONCEPT VIG BARSTOOL PRICE: ` 14,450
Price: ` 89,000
VISIONNAIRE MORGANA BARSTOOL PRICE: ` 2,45,000
ETHNIC KRAFT EMBROIDERED WOOD CHAIR PRICE: ` 18,000
DESIGNEMPORIA.IN DADA STOOL PRICE: ` 18,999
WHERE BoConcept: Global Foyer, Shop No. 15S, 2nd Floor, Golf Course Road, Sector-43, Gurgaon DesignEmporia: Designemporia.in Ethnic Kraft: M- 191, Greater Kailash, Part 2, New Delhi Maitland Smith: International Furniture Brands, Ground Floor, The Gallery on MG, 251-252 Mehrauli-Gurgaon Road, New Delhi Vissionaire: The Gallery on MG, Gurgaon-Mehrauli Road, New Delhi
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home interiors
KEEP THESE HANDY
ISHVATAM GLASS JAR, STEEL STIRRER AND CUP PRICE: ` 5,000 (jar), ` 1,770 (stirrer) and ` 1,850 (cup)
Dress up your bar with these accessories M
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FCML HOME AERATOR WITH BASE AND PRONTO DISPONIBLE CORKSCREW PRICE: ` 8,710 and ` 5,210
IK SILVER STERLING SILVER BAR ACCESSORIES SET PRICE: ` 7,600 onwards
@HOME MISCELLANEOUS BAR ACCESSORIES PRICE: ` 1,400 onwards
ARTTD’INOX COCKTAIL SHAKER WITH BAR ACCESSORIES PRICE: ` 1,550
WHERE @home: Sahibabad Link Road Highway, Next to Bikanerwala, Ghaziabad Althorp: International Furniture Brands, Ground Floor, The Gallery on MG, 251-252 Mehrauli-Gurgaon Road, New Delhi
EPISODE TOOTHPICK HOLDERS, BOTTLE STOPPERS AND COCKTAIL STIRRERS JAWS
Arttd’inox: Global Foyer, Golf course road, Sector 43, Gurgaon/ 77-B, Defence Colony, New Delhi
PRICE: ` 6,890 (tooth pick holders) ` 2,720 onwards (bottle stoppers) ` 2,280
Episode: N-10, Greater Kailash 1 Market/ Terminal 1D/ Terminal 3, IGI Airport/ 203, Galaxy Tower, Sector 15, Part 2, Gurgaon
onwards (Stirrers)
FCML: Sultanpur Chowk, MG Road, New Delhi IK Silver: 2, Karbala Lane, Jor Bagh, New Delhi
ALTHORP CAST BRASS BEAR WINE HOLDER
Ishvatam: 348 D, MG Road, Sultanpur/18B Khan Market, New Delhi
PRICE: ` 1,25,000 APRIL 2013|CityScan|47
home interiors
LUXURY SEATING
Chic and urbane sofas for your living room
CASA SHAMUZZI NOIR COLLECTION PRICE: On request
THE FURNITURE REPUBLIC BRADFORD PRICE: ` 1,39,500
@HOME VELVET TOUCH SOFA PRICE: ` 30,000 onwards
WORLD BAZAAR LUXURY OXFORD LEATHER SOFA PRICE:
` 1,75,000
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NATUZZI WAVE
K PIC
PRICE: On request
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IDUS GAMMA AND WIDE COMFY SOFA PRICE: On request
VISIONNAIRE WILBUR PRICE: On request
WHERE @home: Sahibabad Link road highway, Next to Bikanerwala, Ghaziabad Casa Shamuzzi, A-4, Sector-9, Noida Fendi Casa: Terra Sans Home Couture, Paras Twin Towers, Sector-54, Golf Course Road, Gurgaon Idus: Kirti Nagar, New Delhi Mobel Grace: D-5, Defence Colony, Ground Floor, New Delhi Natuzzi, 12/1 W.H.S Kirti Nagar, New Delhi The Furniture Republic: A-32, Sec. 63, Noida/ KST Building, Near Fortune Hotel, Ghitorni/ 290, Dhan Mill Compound, Chattarpur, New Delhi
MOBEL GRACE PURPLE IMPERIAL SOFA PRICE: ` 1,85,000
Visionnaire: The Gallery on MG, 251-252 Mehrauli-Gurgaon Road, New Delhi World Bazaar: 843/1, Mehrauli Gurgaon Road, Ghitorni, New Delhi
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home interiors
HACIENDA FOR SITA NANDA PSIKO SOFA PRICE: ` 1,50,000
MARINA HOMES WHITE LEATHER SECTIONAL SOFA AND SEMI-ROUND GREY LEATHERED SOFA PRICE: ` 6,25,000 and ` 3,75,500
FENDI CASA FF PREMIERE 4 SEATER SOFA AND COMPOSITION
WHERE Fendi Casa: Terra Sans Home Couture, Paras Twin Towers, Sector-54, Golf Course Road, Gurgaon Hacienda: CRC Building, M.G. Road, Sultanpur Chowk, MehrauliGurgaon Road, New Delhi Marina Homes: Marina Home Interiors Retail Network Pvt. Ltd., M.G. Road, Near Sultanpur Metro Station, New Delhi
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PRICE: On request
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electronics & gadgets
SUMMER
Fan-ning away the heat VA
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Usha Hunter Cabio Frio Antique Pewter
The hunter fans by Usha rotate both clockwise and anti-clockwise to move air efficiently in summer as well as winter, are engineered with precision-ground ball bearings, multiple capacitors for speed controls and patented sound dampeners for a noise free operation. Some of its other features include an in-built halogen light, wobble free operation, rich scratch resistant finish blades and powerful precision created motor to suit Indian conditions. PRICE: Available in nine models starting from ` 11599
Westinghouse Solana Fan
Brushed nickel fan finish with wengue blades and single light fixture with opal frosted glass. This ceiling delight has a diameter size of 48�/122 cms and includes remote control and reverse switch. PRICE: ` 29,990
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electronics & gadgets
ELECTRONIC SERIES Westinghouse Sydney Fan
Faro fan by Suryaveer Kohli Home
Faro’s 22 cm diameter cylinder is made up of transparent perpex, metal with epoxy painted finish. Blades are again made up of transparent perpex. PRICE: ` 36,500, available at K2 India
This ceiling fan comes with an oil-rubbed bronze fan finish and wengue/mahagony blades and an adaptable remote or wall control. It includes a pull chain and has a diameter size of 42”/105 cms. The reverse switch feature makes the fan blow the air down, when the switch is in the forward position, and when in reverse position, air is pushed towards the ceiling. While the forward position is used in the summer, the reverse is used in the winter. PRICE: ` 16,990
WHERE K2 India: F 213/D, 1st floor, Old MB Road, Lado Sarai, New Delhi Usha World: Shop Number 1/1314, Asaf Ali Road, Opposite Kamla Market, New Delhi Westinghouse: Ranco Electric Company, C-1, Gurudwara Road, Kotla, South Extension 1, New Delhi.
Blade by K2 India Everett by Westinghouse
With a espresso fan finish, espresso/applewood blades, single light fixture with scarvo glass bowl, reverse switch, intelligence of being wall control adaptable and a pull chain fan control, this one promises to five you the best performance and sophisticated looks.
This fan is exceptionally designed for excellent air flow at low speed. This comes with a remote control with three speed modes - High, Medium and Low. Blade comes in two colour finishes, Stain White and Brushed Silver. PRICE: ` 58,500
PRICE: ` 14,990
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electronics & gadgets
SUMMER Refrigerate in the Best Way LT MU
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Samsung Digital Inverter Frost Free Refrigerator
ActiveSmart combines guidance from a ‘smart technology’ microprocessor and interior temperature sensors, with independently controlled variable speed fans and multiple air ducts to maintain a stable and even temperature. So despite highs, lows and occasional gusty winds, when it comes to your fridge, ActiveSmart controls the weather to deliver optimum food care, and keeps your food fresher for longer. The interior of an ActiveSmart refrigerator is also full of features like uninterrupted wide-open spaces, humidity control system and slim-line water touch pad.
Samsung ’s new Digita l Inverter Series offers Digital Inverter Compressor, that utilizes a smart controller and five convenient RPM speeds. These refrigerators deliver up to 40 percent more energy efficiency while significantly reducing noise. Other clever builtin features include a Moist Fresh Zone that controls the air circulation to maintain optimal humidity; a Water Dispenser located at waist height for easier access to water; a Quick Cooling mode that reduces waiting time for cooling all with a touch of a button; and ergonomically designed front and side Recessed Handles for effortless opening. The range also offers a differentiated floral ‘Orcherry’ design in Peach Silver, Garnet Red and Pearl Black in addition to Real Stainless, Platinum Inox, Metal Graphite colour patterns.
PRICE: ` 1,75,000. WHERE: Experience it first hand at the Fisher & Paykel Experience Centre at SCO 310, Sector 29, Gurgaon, Haryana or Fisher&Paykel distributors across Delhi/NCR
PRICE: Available in 253L, 275L, 321L, 345L, 393 L and 415L capacities, priced between ` 20,500 to ` 49,500 WHERE: 15,Nathu Singh Market, Vasant Kunj/ Sri Aurobindo Marg, Green Park, New Delhi and other Samsung Plaza stores across Delhi/NCR
Fisher & Paykel’s ActiveSmart Refrigerator
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electronics & gadgets
ELECTRONIC SERIES Electrolux Built-in fridge
If you prefer to customize the look of your kitchen and wish to give it a contemporary look, then the Electrolux built-in fridge and freezer has been designed exclusively to suit your needs. Built in Refrigerator by Electrolux has a unique design with visual synergy, use R600a refrigerant, easy glide telescopic runners to ensure effortless access to your food, in-built ‘Fresh Logic’ deodorizer to enhance the air inside the fridge, absorbing strong odors, like seafood or cheese, adjustable spill safe glass shelves and smart slide-away shelf. PRICE: ` 1,18,700 WHERE: Grandeur Interiors Pvt. Ltd. C-158, Okhla Industrial Area, Phase-1/ Nestlinks Home Appliances Pvt. Ltd. No.B-83, First Floor, Bhisham Pitamah Marg, Defence Colony, New Delhi
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Hitachi Inverter Refrigerator
Hitachi Home & Life Solutions India Ltd. has introduced a spectacular range of refrigerators with Inverter Technology. Hitachi offers 3 variants i.e. Big French (4-Doors), Three door and Two door refrigerators, all best in their class. All new Big French Refrigerator offers spacious interior and attention grabbing exterior with glass finish look. It has centre divide doors incorporating the water dispenser and smart one touch operation digital control panel. The all-in-all features include Intelligent Inverter Compressor, Minus-zero cooling, Eco Thermo Sensor, Front Jet Freezing, Tempered Glass Shelves and Anti-bacterial Door Panel. PRICE: ` 1,10,000 for 638L. WHERE: Dealer stores across Delhi/NCR APRIL 2013|CityScan|55
electronics & gadgets
S U M M E R ELECTRONIC SERIES
Newest in Air Conditioners Hitachi i-Clean AC
Hitachi’s i-Clean AC range is equipped with i-Clean technology which automatically cleans the filter of the AC; therefore no blockage, no dust, only clean, healthy and powerful cooling forever with high energy efficiency. i-Clean cleans the filter automatically after every 5 hours and maintain the hygienic room environment. PRICE: Available in 1.2TR, 1.5TR and 2.0TR in the range of ` 42950, ` 48450 and ` 55950. WHERE: Dealer stores across Delhi/NCR
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LG Inverter V
LG’s new range of Inverter V air conditioners are designed to give energy saving up to 66% and provide airflow up to 30 feet. Apart from proving cooling comfort to its users, it also ensures that the user breathes pure and clean air for a healthy life through its advanced plasmaster ionizer and auto clean feature to provide 99.9% pure air. The ‘unique monsoon comfort’ feature and ‘3M brand micro protection filter’ with electrostatic technology which collects fine dust and allergy causing pollen are its other distinctive features. PRICE: Available in ‘Hot and Cold’ and ‘Cooling only’ series in 1.0TR, 1.5TR & 2.0TR in the range of ` 51,990 to ` 77, 990 and ` 39,990 to Rs. 68,990. WHERE: M Block, Vikaspuri, New Delhi and dealer stores across Delhi/NCR
Panasonic ECONAVI
The enhanced ECONAVI models by Panasonic come with features like ‘Inverter Strength Indicator’ that measure air conditioner’s performance. The revolutionary ‘Inverter Technology’ helps the air conditioning units reach the desired temperature faster and also operate much efficiently than other air conditioners. With its new ‘Temperature Wave feature’, the ECONAVI AC’s help in energy savings up to 38%. The enhanced nanoe-G air purification system comes with ‘In-Filter Deactivation’ feature to give you a healthy life.
Daikin FTKV50NRV16
Through the launch of its new residential split AC’s, Daikin, for the first time ever, commercializes the next gen refrigerant – HFC 32. In addition to having a lower global warming impact, HFC32 can help curtail greenhouse gas emissions originating from energy sources when equipment is in use by its better energy efficiency. Furthermore, it is also a refrigerant that reduces the amount of refrigerant needed per air conditioning unit, has the advantage of enabling components such as heat exchangers, to be made compact, and is suitable for refrigerant recycling. PRICE: ` 49,000. WHERE: 13, South Extension, Part 2, New Delhi/ I-92, Central Market, Lajpat Nagar - II and other Daikin Solution Plaza outlets across Delhi/NCR 56|CityScan|APRIL 2013
PRICE: Between ` 21,990 to ` 78,490. WHERE: Dealer stores across Delhi/NCR
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food zone
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T
here’s a reason why Indians are called a hospitable bunch. And that is because a lavish Indian bash will simply never leave you hungry for more. Of the hundred reasons why we all love attending family functions, the most important is still food. You grab your preferred hors d’oeuvres from trays passing by; sip a glut of flavours in the form of mocktails, wines and champagnes, and still regret being unable to taste everything even after your meal has run from appetisers to desserts. If you’re planning a wedding, a baby shower, a bachelorette/ bachelor’s party or any other significant affair, there are veteran caterers in town who will show you a thousand dishes to choose from (on an iPad!), rehearse meal sessions before the final day, are ready to fly-in ingredients from any part of the world, and might even provide you with a foot massage after all the hectic planning and managing! Delhi’s parties, functions and ceremonies have been revolutionised by the eye-opening hospitality that these catering concerns provide today.
Pic: Kwality Caterers
Pic: XO Catering by Design
Pic: Seasons Catering
Seldom does one realise that behind the gastronomic success of an elegantly conducted sangeet ceremony or even a fund raising event, there is a great catering team to thank. But while food still remains the star, today it is just one part of the catering world’s broader mission: the satisfaction of all the senses – sight, hearing, touch, smell and taste.
Pic: Seasons Catering
SPREADING THE URBAN CATERER’S APRON
food zone
Romantically themed dinner by Seasons Catering
THE SEASONS GROUP
Seasons Catering, a division of the Seasons Group, established in 1987, has been managing hotels, restaurants and providing highly progressive hospitality and catering services in India and abroad for the past three decades. They will enthrall you with options in local and world cuisines featuring Avadhi, Hyderabadi, Chettinad, Rajasthani, Punjabi, Gujarati, besides the North West Frontier and coastal India to Middle Eastern, Mediterranean, European, Pan Asian, Japanese, Teppanyaki, Mongolian and Mexican. Says Sanjay Khullar, Chairman, Seasons Group, “The authenticity of all our dishes is Plated shrimps dish by Kwality Caterers
Drink options by Seasons Catering
maintained by the respective master chefs for each cuisine by using only traditional cooking methods, and standardised and traditional recipes. Our chefs use the best and freshest imported and Indian ingredients for all food preparations.” Ongoing training, best practice trips to other countries and in-house development of new cuisines keeps the team well versed with the latest trends in the industry in food presentation, ingredients and the tastes of an increasingly discerning clientele. Some of The Seasons specialities include seafood Robatta Grill, Wagamama Noodle bar, American Steakhouse, wood fired pizzas and South African Periperi.
THE KWALITY GROUP
The Kwality Group, which immortalised the humble chana bhatura (a recipe enhanced by P.L Lamba, chairman of the group himself), handled their first function some 40 years back for the Russian consulate on New Year’s eve and have never looked back ever since. Says Ishaan Sarkar, COO, Kwality Group, “With 400 employees, 1000 plus catering events a year, a 35,000 square feet central kitchen in Noida and a hundred master chefs on duty, our work cannot go wrong. It’s been a wonderful experience and on busy days we have even done up to 13 functions in a single day. Having served grandfathers, fathers and then sons, that is three generations of families in the city, our catering business is definitely all about building relationships. Our strength lies in innovative cooking methods and arrangements that are extraordinary.” Table setup by Kwality Caterers
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food zone Beyond Catering
Wedding decoration by The Kitchen Art Company
THE KITCHEN ART COMPANY
Chef Puneet Sikand dreamt of introducing modern aesthetics of plating through fine contemporary catering and began The Kitchen Art Company in 1997. “Since inception, we have been the pioneers in introducing world cuisine in off premises catering. We’ve introduced new cuisines that are predominantly served in five star hotels or in specialty restaurants. From the flavours of pan Asian/European countries to a vast selection of regional Indian cuisines extending from the north to the south, we provide a wide array of dishes that would be apt for any occasion,” informs Puneet, Owner, The Kitchen Art Company.
From the outside, catering seems pretty clear-cut: just cook food and serve it right. But there’s a lot more. From the initial clientcaterer meetings to the big event, catering involves a lot of planning and preparation, teamwork, creativity and some pretty high tech equipment. The better catering companies have moved towards a full-service, event-planning model. These caterers will create the right atmosphere to appeal to all the senses of your guests in a way that makes the celebration memorable. Apart from beautifully created food, these men now want every piece of the puzzle in their hands – from décor to glassware, flatware to flowers, lighting to linen and tables to tunes. Everything will be fine-tuned by them to complement the food and create a unified overall experience. Ishaan of the Kwality Group tells us – “It’s all about convenience. People, especially NRIs want everything at their doorsteps. We are complete solution providers. Expect us to take care of your invitation cards, trousseau packing, venue, jewellery and the entire planning per se.” Talking about the presentation part, he says, “In a buffet, 80 Palak Patta Chaat by XO Catering by Design
XO CATERING BY DESIGN
XO Catering by Design will soon complete nine years of operation, and was named after their concept of “designing the food menu and service delivery according to the client requirements, and then designing an entire theme around the cuisine to be served”. Arjun Puri, Owner, XO Catering by Design, says, “We are very strong in European cuisines like Mediterranean, Spanish, Italian and Lebanese and we also get excellent feedback about our Indian regional cuisines such as Awadhi, Hyderabadi, Punjabi, Kashmiri, Rajasthani, Marwari, Coastal, Andhra and Chettinad. Street food is our forte.” Talking about catering in general, he says further, “Some of the caterers I know use fixed menus which they revise quarterly or so. They would like the client to make a choice from these fixed menus and thus impose their own choice of items. We are against imposing such limitations, be it for a buffet or a sit down.”
CityScan picked up these Fantastic Four of the Delhi catering scene and asked them about the minimum and maximum people they can cater to, their unique services, recollections of the celebrations they were a part of, and future plans...
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SANJAY KHULLAR , CHAIRMAN, SEASONS GROUP
“Seasons Group caters exclusive functions ranging from 50 guests to 5000 guests and more. My focus is on the quality of food, personalised service and team members committed to excellence of service and guest delight. The next thing on the agenda is introducing new cuisines and exclusive dishes for our guests for the coming season and exploring innovative ideas on presentation and the display of buffets by bringing the indoor experience of dining to the outdoors by means of interactive cooking to enhance the guest experience and delight them with live show kitchens, more chef and guest interaction, healthier menus which keep pace with changing lifestyles and trends.”
ARJUN PURI, OWNER, XO CATERING BY DESIGN “We have done catering for two people to 6000 people. Numbers have never been an issue, since we just love what we do. We will keep learning and imbibing new recipes and techniques to deliver them. My focus is to continue to build on these and to deliver a high level of customer satisfaction, employee satisfaction and financial performance".
food zone percent of the food is devoured by the eyes and so, presentation is very important – what we refer to as ‘food theatrics’ – along with a lot of drama. So if you want a salad, we would put that up on a the la with a bhaiya tossing fresh veggies, if you want cholle kulche, you will be having cyclewalas standing in the corners (like they do in towns); and for people with a sweet tooth, a thelawala would go around offering kulfi and more. Straightforward tables are absolutely passé.” There’s more. Kwality claims to be the first of these companies to provide menus on an iPad. Clients can watch pictures, see the presentation and make an exact budget. So if you choose 10, 20 or even 30 items, one knows exactly how much to pay. “During a wedding, the bride and the groom are actually the most stressed out and hardly ever enjoy themselves. If Kwality is the one you choose to handle your affairs, the couple would actually get an elaborate menu to pick from once they are seated and would not be at the mercy of a waiter. They would in fact even get them a back massage by two pleasant ladies to soothe their wedding blues! As for the baraatis, post the welcome drinks, they would be given foot massages if they so desire. ” Food presentation and staff of XO Catering by Design
SUNIL LAMBA , MD,
Seasons Catering works according to its own style. Each function, no matter how small or large, is supervised from start to finish by professional managers and staff trained in service etiquette, and dressed in designer uniforms exclusive to Seasons. “Staff at the Seasons Group is trained in best practices related to guest satisfaction and delight, personalisation and knowing and understanding the likes and dislikes of regular guests through on the job and classroom training throughout the year. For presentations and display of buffets, most items are cooked fresh in front of the guests via live interactive cooking stations on hot griddle plates / induction cooking / robatta grills / weber grills / live tandoor for breads and kebabs , char grills , live wok and teppanyaki stations, etc.,” says Sanjay. “All live counters are manned by trained chefs who are familiar with each cuisine and can also answer guest queries about food being served. Where possible, kitchens are erected to give the feel of a five star hotel show kitchen complete with hoods / props and glass windows. The presentation is also enhanced by means of props and theme décor for each cuisine. Fresh displays of food, fruit carvings, and the use of metal, wood, glass elevations with buffet tables with Korean marble tops, runners, colourful fabrics, canopies, flowers etc., all play a part depending on the theme of the function All this is achieved by working with designers, décor agencies and event planners to ensure that the display and presentation blends with the theme of the function.” Chef Puneet also agrees that “the ambience and theme are synonymous with food.” He tells us about his efforts – “We try to adopt latest techniques in service that are prevalent across the globe. Like a painter, The Kitchen Art Co. creates pieces of art with their delicacies on location and serves them with great panache. Every premise where we cater has its own challenges, constraints and of course also its own picturesque surroundings. To create a harmony between food and the surroundings is an art and we excel in this. To mention a few, we have created magic in the treacherous jungles of Uttarkhand with our indigenously made spits and cooked food wrapped in leaves placed on charcoal dug underground. We have also served guests in the mountains where each and every utensil and all food ingredients were transported on a pony!” u by VARALIKA VIJ
PUNEET SIKAND, CHEF AND
KWALITY GROUP
OWNER, THE KITCHEN ART COMPANY
“We don’t really have any minimum size for catering since we create relationships with our clients and cannot let them down. Each function we do is unique. I firmly believe that you are as good as your last catering, and so we don’t go by our past laurels. However, it feels good when a guest comes up and finds something unique (something like an African dish he had years back) and lauds us for it. We plan to introduce organic ingredients for the food conscious breed. We would also, as a part of our corporate social responsibility, try to make our events as ecofriendly as possible, even if it is with something as small as using recycled paper napkins".
“From services for a romantic couple with food served on a bed of red roses to a reception party of 6000 guests, we’re open to serving any size of party. Apart from catering, we provide consultancy services for menu and buffet display. Each contract has been a fond memory to me. I can’t pinpoint any one in particular. To hear my guests complimenting our food and services, even after 5-6 years is invigorating. In the future, we are opening a banquet/ private dining premises at the Triveni community centre in Sheikh Sarai called ‘TEN’ which will commence business from April 2013.
PRICE TAG Prices are difficult to pinpoint, since services vary depending on the menu and other add-ons one wishes for. However, all of them assure value for money. But for calculating a ball park figure, you could use any figure between ` 1,000 to ` 10,000 per plate.
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food zone
The Internal Quest for the Perfect Summer Body Ms. Ishi Khosla is a Clinical Nutritionist & Founder, theweightmonitor.com; WholeFoodsIndia and Founder President - Celiac Society For Delhi
W
ith the onset of summers, everyone is busy trying to shed the winter weight and get in shape to flaunt the enviable summer body or at least comfortably fit into their summer clothes. With the heat building up and the winter layers coming off, many of us are hit with an instant urge to detox or
explore quick resulting diets to shed a few kilos. We discuss the pros and cons and effects of these detox diets, very low calorie diet (VLCD) and also offer you a healthy diet plan that is sure to bring you desired sustainable results. Detoxing essentially refers to flushing out waste and toxins from the system and the cleansing the body. Often people go
into extremes by drinking copious amounts of fluids, surviving on salads and even resort to taking laxatives, to detox and get in shape. This creates an imbalance in the system that can result in health issues and water loss which can be misunderstood as weight loss. Also denying the body certain foods, eventually leads to a severe craving which can result in overeating and is therefore counterproductive. While short-cuts are not the answer for weight management on a long-term basis, following a very low calorie diet (VLCD) for a short spell under supervision to meet certain targets is not contraindicated. However, remember expectations must be realistic and the plan must be scientifically drawn-up. Combining it with a good exercise regimen can help you achieve your targets faster. However, you must remember that success of very low calorie
Take 5
☛ Diet should be nutritionally balanced and un-
dertaken under the supervision of a qualified professional. ☛ Do not over-restrict and binge. ☛ Include plenty of fluids. ☛ Regular exercise - 1 hour daily. ☛ Must follow-up with a maintenance plan and behavior modification.
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diets is short lived because water and protein are lost from the body, rather than excess body fat. Once normal eating is resumed, body fluids are quickly replaced and there is an immediate weight gain. Fasting with juices and water can also be a dangerous practice. It may lead to lowered blood pressure and heart failure. Even if fasting is conducted under medical supervision at spas etc., it is very rare for weight loss to be sustained once normal eating is resumed. Therefore, such diets should not be undertaken unsupervised on a regular basis or for too long as there can be several risks. These are contraindicated for people with established health problems like diabetes, kidney disease, heart problems. Some of the problems associated with rapid weight loss and crash diets include: loss of lean body mass, electrolyte imbalance, unstable blood glucose levels, skin & hair problems and increased risk towards food addiction and depression. Finally, there is no magic solution for weight loss and there are no short-cuts. A successful diet plan enables you to lose weight slowly and surely, and establishes a healthy eating and exercise pattern that will last a lifetime, so that weight loss is permanent. A good diet should emphasize whole, minimally processed foods with fruits and vegetables and supply adequate antioxidants. Thus, the key to healthy weight loss is to reduce calorie intake, eat less fat, control portion sizes, and be more physically active. u The author has recently launched ‘TheWeightMonitor.com’, a fully online weight management program based on scientific principles of nutrition and encourages principles of variety, moderation and balance. For further information, please email on info@theweightmonitor. com or call 1800 103 7002
food zone
Recommended Diet Plan Day 1
Day 2
Day 3
Day 4
Day 5
Day 6
Early Morning
Tea Almonds (7)
Tea Walnuts (3)
Tea Pistachios (7)
Tea Sunflower seeds (1 tbsp)
Tea Cashewnuts (5)
Tea Tea Pumpkin Almonds (7) seeds (1 tbsp)
Breakfast
Egg (1)
Tofu (50 g)
Cheela (1)
OR
Seasonal Fruit (1)
Moong dal Sprouts (1 k)
Milk (double toned / skimmed)
Yogurt (1/2 Cup) + 1 Walnut, crushed + Âź cup apple
Egg (1) OR Paneer (50 g) with Toast (1) Green tea
Paneer (50 g) with
Green tea
Buttermilk Green tea
Chaach Green tea
Seasonal Fruit (1)
Seasonal Fruit (1) Green tea Green tea
Day 7
Green tea
Mid Morning
Lemon water
Amla Water
Vegetable juice
Coconut water
Jamun Juice
Grapefruit Juice / Lassi
Coconut water
Lunch
Salad with Chana / dal / rajmah (1/3cup) + Seasonal Vegetables
Dahi / Raita + Seasonal Vegs.
Soup + Salad
Dahi / raita + Fruit (1)
Salad + Seasonal Vegetables
Dahi / Raita + Vegs.
Soup + Salad
Evening
Green tea + Roasted snacks (1/2 cup)
Green tea + Roasted snacks (1/2 cup)
Green tea + Roasted snacks (1/2 cup)
Green tea + Roasted snacks (1/2 cup)
Green tea +
Green tea +
Green tea +
{Chicken (150 gms) / fish (150 gms) / paneer (50 gms) / tofu (50 gms) / soy (1 k)}
{Chicken (150 gms) / fish (150 gms) / paneer (50 gms) / tofu (50 gms) / soy (1 k)}
{Chicken (150 gms) / fish (150 gms) / paneer (50 gms) / tofu (50 gms) / soy (1 k)}
Dinner
Soup / Milk (double toned / skimmed)+ Fibre supplement
Free foods: Tea / Coffee / Clear Soups / Green salad APRIL 2013|CityScan|63
food zone
Salad RECIPES Prawn Mushroom and Glass Noodle Salad By Master Chef Chow Man, Asia 7 SERVES 2 PEOPLE INGREDIENTS
• Glass noodles 100gms • Garlic China 10gms • Black mushroom 30gms • Button mushroom 30gms • Black fungus 30gms • Chili red fresh 3 • Kafir lime leaf 3 • Prawns 250gms • Salt 15gms • Chicken broth powder 20gms • Sugar 10gms • Lemon 60gm • Sweet chili sauce 50gm • White pepper powder 10gm • Fresh coriander leaves 10gm
Dylan Salad By Executive Chef Prashant Khurana, Amici Cafe SERVES A PORTION INGREDIENTS
• Washed crisp rocket lettuce 120 grams • Goat cheese (12% fat) 50 grams • Parmesan cheese (aged min 24 months) few flakes • Parma ham thinly sliced (air cured 18 months) 65 grams • Agrodolce dressing 25 ml • Pomegranate seeds (optional) • Garlic bread SUB RECIPE: Amici homemade Agrodolce Dressing • Extra virgin olive oil 250 ml • White wine vinegar 110 gm • Wild honey 110 gm • Sicilian Sea salt 10 gm • Crushed black pepper 1 gm METHOD
• Prepare rocket greens • Clean the rocket leaves and hand pick only tender green leaves • Wash twice thoroughly in ice chilled
water. • Dry the leaves in a salad spinner. Mixing / tossing / plating • Take a mixing bowl and add crisp rocket leaves • Add homemade agrodolce dressing, toss the leaves and place them in a serving platter • Sprinkle broken goat cheese • Arrange paper thin slices of Parma ham • Sprinkle 15gms of pomegranate seeds • Serve with freshly baked crostini/ garlic bread. Making homemade agrodolce dressing
• Take good Italian olive oil in a bowl • Whisk in to emulsify white wine vinegar • Add wild honey. • Add salt, crushed black pepper • Taste; for adjusting the seasoning to your palate.
“An Italian delicate summer salad piled up with handpicked bitter rocket greens, parmigiano reggiano, Compania’s goat cheese, 18 months air cured prosciutto di Parma and a homemade Agrodolce dressing to dress up the salad.” 64|CityScan|APRIL 2013
METHOD
• Add oil in a frying pan and sauté
garlic for 2 minutes. Add sliced mushrooms on high flame, season it with salt, white pepper powder and cook it for 5 minutes or until the mushroom turns golden brown
in colour. • Blanch the glass noodles in boiling water for 5 minutes. Season the water with salt, white pepper powder, sugar and chicken broth powder. • Keep aside all the ingredients to cool down before mixing. • Mix all the ingredients in a large mixing bowl, add shredded kaffir lime leaves and season it with salt, white pepper powder, lemon juice, sweet chilli sauce and toss it nicely. • Marinate ‘B’ Grade prawns in salt, white pepper powder, sugar and lemon juice, and cook it for 3 minutes. Tips for Cooking Seafood – always marinade seafood at the time of cooking to retain the freshness. • Add prawns to the tossed salad and serve it in a serving dish. Garnish it with fresh coriander leaves.
“It’s a great summer salad with fresh coriander leaves dressing, gives a zesty lemon flavour. The combination of prawns and mushrooms makes it a perfect summer lunch.”
food zone
Chipotle Yucatan Chicken Salad By General Manager and Culinary Council Head
Ashutosh Jha, TGIF SERVES 2 PEOPLE INGREDIENTS
Insalta Fantasia By Executive Chef Tejas Bhoita, Spaghetti Kitchen SERVES A PORTION INGREDIENTS
• Romaine Lettuce 40 gm • Rocket Lettuce 20 gm • Iceberg Lettuce 20 gm • Lolo rosso lettuce 20 gm • Palm Hearts 30 gm • Pears 20 gm • Sherry vinegar 15 gm • Honey 5 gm • Olive oil 15 gm • Salt 5 gm • Pepper crushed 5 gm • Dijon mustard 5 gm
METHOD
• Refresh all the greens in chilled water and dry with a napkin. • Add the palm hearts and drizzle the dressing. • Toss the salad and garnish with sliced pears. DRESSING
• In a mixing bowl, mix mustard, sherry vinegar and honey • Add seasonings • Slowly start adding the olive oil, while you keep whisking to create an emulsion.
“Its a chilled summer salad, with Palm Hearts and pears, perfect to beat the heat with a fine blend of sherry vinegar, olive oil and honey.”
• Cilantro; fresh; sprigs 60 ml • Lettuce leaf chopped 56gm • Salad mix syrup 30ml • Cabbage red shredded 35 gm • Onions red diced 3/8”(10mm)
2 Tbs.
• Cheese mixed 80 gm • Tortilla strips 42 gm • Tomatoes diced 3/8” (10 mm);
dressing 75 gm
• Cilantro lime vinaigrette 45 ml • Aioli Sriracha 1 tbs • Chicken Yucatan; roasted
pulled 84gm • Spice; Blackening Seasoning ½ tsp. • Avocado diced 1/2” (13 mm) 84gm • Lime; wedge 1/8 cut 1 each
METHOD
• On a green cutting board, rough
chop cilantro sprigs, including stems. • Place lettuce, salad mix, red cabbage, onion, mixed cheese, tortilla strips and cilantro in mixing bowl. Add lime cilantro dressing to it and toss well to combine. • Place salad mix in centre of service bowl with as much height as possible. • Evenly distribute diced tomatoes over salad. • Drizzle aioli in a zigzag pattern over salad. • Mound chicken in the centre of salad and sprinkle with blackening seasoning on chicken. • Evenly distribute diced avocado around edge of salad and place lime wedge on top of chicken in the centre of bowl.
“We have brought the fresh, distinctive flavours of Mexico to Friday’s. The salad uses the freshest ingredients, authentic rich Mexican spices to produce flavours unlike anything else.” APRIL 2013|CityScan|65
food zone
THE GLASS OF SUMMER 2013
D
e l h i has l ive d w ith it s contradictions for centuries. With one foot forever in the past and one firmly in the future, Delhi’s present is a turbulent melting pot of overlapping cultures, societies and traditions. Everyone and everything is different. Yet they all fit in. And so, despite the Capital’s new found pride as the most modern of India’s cities, Delhi sees nothing strange in its nostalgic reclamation of India’s long lost sherbet culture. The growing popularity of sherbets, lassi, and other natural traditional drinks not only evoke nostalgia but are seen as natural and as healthier than fizzy aerated drinks. No wonder people are going back to the drinks of their childhood and embracing desi coolers. Sherbets seem likely to improve their market share this year and in fact, may give bottled drink companies some food for thought. As yummy as any aerated drink, sweet without the guilt of sugar, water based, and with natural ingredients – traditional sherbets are healthier, work faster to quench thirst and, without any harmful additives and leave one truly refreshed. There was a time when bottled squashes were popular for the convenience of instantly mixed drinks, but now Delhi has started demanding more authentic flavoured drinks sourced from Purani Dilli’s glorious days. People relish fruit in their drinks with perhaps a mint leaf or slice of lemon. Almost every café across town has its own versions of various Indian drinks, ranging from juices and lassi to sherbets. A whole multitude of options are gradually re-entering the market as winter wears down, and fortunately the range of drinks for sale this season cater to every palate, and every summer need. If you are looking to build on the concept of fresh homemade beverages this summer, try some of the drinks that we loved for their nutritional power and appeal to the taste buds alike. 66|CityScan|APRIL 2013
food zone
Fresh homemade beverages Bel ka sherbet,
put together using bell fruit, cumin powder, black salt and sugar is known to work wonders by cooling the stomach.
S
Badam sherbet can
be made a little more filling by adding cream, but the rose water and almonds alone are enough to get the health conscious on board.
Custard apple sherbet
can be mixed using the pulp of custard apple, honey and plain yoghurt.
Mango sherbet
Zafrani sherbet has
is naturally relished in the summer. Adding a little rosewater and some spices makes it a slightly different serving.
ummer strolls along markets can be exhausting and nothing saves the day better than a tall glass of something delicious made especially for you. Living in the capital comes with a lot of advantages, one of them being the easy availability of everything under the sun with an additional exotic flavor. Savor the innovations Delhi cafes have been working on with some help from our recommendations! Latitude (Khan Market) is proud of its Rose Petal and Lemon Sherbet, made with rose flavored syrup and lemon juice (Rs 130). Their Raw Mango Sherbet has quite a following since it resembles the traditional aam panna and comes with a touch of mint, making it the right mix of sweet and sour to beat dehydration. Café Turtle serves Coconut Water (` 95) especially for those who are looking to fill up on vitamins without piling on needless calories. Fresh combinations of Apple &Beetroot (` 175) or Pineapple & Coconut (` 175) are rich in magnesium, calcium and potassium
Aam ka panna is a
classic Indian drink that most households make every year. It can be sweet or sharp, diluted to one’s liking.
the potential to be both sinful and healthy, as some variations of the recipe include ice cream while some stick to cardamom, saffron, almonds and pistachios.
Imli ka amlana
is one of the most exciting sherbets around, especially because of the zing contributed by tamarind, which works as a good change from sweeter drinks that are normally consumed for high energy.
levels, essential factors for good summer health. Kuzart Lane (Hauz Khas Village) is as creative with its menu as it is with the concept behind its inception. The Betel is a fun drink infused with litchi extracts, the Aam Admi includes distinct ginger touches along with the mango and the Curry Berry transports patrons to a world of berries and authentic Indian flavour that is hard to come by anywhere else. Another drink that caught our attention is The Green Thing, an amalgamation of orange and pineapple, best served with lots of ice. Elma’s (Hauz Khas Village) is looking forward to introducing a range of fun summer drinks this year but with a difference. The upcoming lemonades will include pulp, rind and essential oils. Watch out for the mango and melon based drinks that are being worked on! Elma’s is out to surprise the city with the additions to its menu and our interaction with the staff has pumped us up for peak summer like never before. There are different ways to enjoy one’s coolers and attract children and teenagers to the world of healthy sips. We are particularly enchanted by the idea of adding copious amounts of crushed ice to these concoctions. Pouring some sherbet into an ice-maker is one of the most effective ways of adding colour to the snack tray. Make this summer unpredictable by using khus, fruit or almonds at home, by giving online recipes a try, and then going out without a care in the world about the heat. The liberating impact of having more options than opportunities to use them, should see the city look forward to the coming Summer of 2013, especially so with the added benefit of a huge array of healthier thirst quenchers to choose from. u by SHIRIN RAI GUPTA APRIL 2013|CityScan|67
food zone
WINE’ ING IN THE CITY “Respect wine like you respect a friend. To make good wine requires time and effort. Try and learn to enjoy its fragrance before gulping it down. Further, enjoy the nice colour with your eyes and the smoothness in the palate. Indulge all your senses and it will become an utterly satisfying experience.”
68|CityScan|APRIL 2013
food zone Zonin, Prosecco Special Cuvee Brut
REGION : Veneto NATURE : Sparkling A R O M A : At t r a c t i v e l y
intense; very fruity and aromatic, with hints of wisteria flowers and rennet apples. B O D Y & T A S T E : We l l balanced and appealing, with extremely delicate almond note SUGGESTED FOOD PAIRING : Excellent aperitif. Ideal for starters like bruschetta, salads, light pasta and pizza. PRICE : ` 1,599
Two Oceans, Sauvignon Blanc
REGION : South Africa NATURE : Red AROMA : Citrus fruits with
herbal notes BODY & TASTE : An elegant yet crisp wine with wild gooseberry flavours, backed by tropical fruits and a hint of grassiness with a lingering aftertaste. SUGGESTED FOOD PAIRING : An ideal companion to fish, lightly flavoured poultry dishes. PRICE : ` 995
Zonin, Primo Amore, Sangiovese Merlot IGT, Sicilla REGION : Sicily NATURE : Red AROMA : Intense
and pleasantly vinous to the nose with outstanding fruitiness and an appealing spicy vein. BODY & TASTE : Dry on the palate with a sultry, mellow and spicy taste and a fine, harmonious blend. SUGGESTED FOOD PAIRING : Fine accompaniment for barbequed meats, spaghetti bolognese and cheese. PRICE : ` 1,491
Dialogue with a wine connoisseur Domaines Barons de Rothschild (Lafite), a family owned company since 1868, has had five generations of Rothschild family, that has over the centuries worked toward a high principle: discovering soils with strong potential, and then producing the finest product possible. The brand has now entered the Indian market and are hopeful to find quick acceptability among wine-lovers in India. We talked to Mr. Michel Negrier – Export Manager, DBR Lafite, who conducted a vivacious interaction with us on the trends and the rise of wine consumption in India How best can an amateur judge the quality of wine? For an amateur, the wine can be evaluated as fine, if the tastes and aromas are pleasant and he enjoys drinking it. In what ways can wine be paired successfully with Indian cuisine? This should not be an obstacle. However, it’s true that you cannot pair wines with any type of Indian food. If the food is very spicy, choose a wine with good balance between acidity and tannins (DBR wines have this profile). Other times, choose the wine because you enjoy it and it pairs at least with one or two dishes of the meal, because of its structure and balance. I would still advice to stick to beer or tea if the food is very spicy! What are the essentials you would like to share with our readers when it comes to appreciating a glass of good wine? Respect wine like you respect a friend. To make good wine requires time and effort. Try and learn to enjoy its fragrance before gulping it down. Further, enjoy the nice colour with your eyes and the smoothness in the palate. Indulge all your senses and it will become an utterly satisfying experience. Three points that make Domaines Barons de Rothschild Lafite one of the best winehouses... DBR is the owner of Château Lafite Rothshild, one of the best and most re-
spected wine in the world. DBR produces beautiful wines in different part of the world with the same attention to quality as Château Lafite Rothshild. Our extended portfolio with wines from first growths Bordeaux, Languedoc, Chili and Argentina is unique. There is a boom in the number of Indians drinking wine. How was the market grown, specifically in Delhi? More Indian consumers want to learn about wine and taste wine. New markets are opening outside the established cities, in the South or in the Eastern part of India, covered by our importer Aspri Spirits. So the trend for the future is promising. It is believed that good wine is often expensive wine. Your comments. Wine is expensive today in India because of high customs and excise duties. Many wines from DBR portfolio would have been more accessible if these taxes would be reduced. How do you feel Indian wines compare? Indian wines have their own style and are lovely. They help the wine segment grow and educate the consumers about the wine culture. Your personal pick… I like wines with balance and style, in a casual ambience. I would choose a Los Vascos Chilian Cabernet or a nice Château d’Aussieres from Corbieres. I enjoy to drink Bordeaux while having a formal dinner. APRIL 2013|CityScan|69
food zone Two Oceans, Pinotage
Carpene Malvolti, Prosecco Special Cuvee Brut DOC
REGION : South Africa NATURE : Red AROMA : Plum backed with
DBR Légende, Bordeaux Blanc
REGION : Yarra Valley NATURE : Red AROMA : Fragrant and
REGION : Veneto NATURE : Sparkling AROMA : Refreshing, intense
spicy vanillin. BODY & TA STE : The wine shows plum red colours tinged with cerise. Medium bodied on the palate with a distinctive berry fruit aftertaste. SUGGESTED FOOD PAIRING : Serve with pasta, pizza, or roast meat. PRICE : ` 995
classy with loads of dark fruits, spice, pepper, blackberry jam and violets. BODY & TASTE : Structured with precision and intensity. Lots of flavour and fruity with classic Shiraz Viognier characters. SUGGESTED FOOD PAIRING : Pepper steak cooked to perfection with crisp green beans and sour stuffed baked potatoes. PRICE : ` 2,100
and fruity bouquet with scents of acacia flowers, wild strawberries and ripe golden apple. BODY & TASTE : Dry, light bodied, clean and pronounced character with a lingering finish. SUGGESTED FOOD PAIRING : All foods, excellent aperitif and a festive drink. PRICE : ` 1,479
Cavalli Tenuta Degli Dei
Black Tower, Reh Kendermann, Rivaner
REGION : Tuscany NATURE : Red AROMA : Intense fruity
aromas, especially berries. B O DY & TA S T E : Good tannic structure, freshness to the acidity and light alcohol. Suggested food pairing: Red meats, roast lamb, park and aged cheese. PRICE : ` 6,540
is pleasant, with liquorices and exotic fruits. BODY & TASTE : A deliciously smooth wine full of fresh fruit flavours of pineapple and ripe mango. SUGGESTED FOOD PAIRING : Wonderfully easy to drink, it is equally enjoyable when served chilled, on its own, or with a variety of food. Works well with spicy chicken tacos, sweet pork and chilly stir fry. PRICE : ` 1,295
70|CityScan|APRIL 2013
Always try to even out the weight of the food with the weight of the wine. A creamier and heavy preparation needs a wine with a little more of body. For example, raita needs wine with little body; so a medium bodied one would do. Fiery dishes beg for a wine to balance the
NATURE : Sparkling Rose AROMA : Almost crystalline.
REGION : Germany NATURE : White AROMA : The nose
Spice and Wine Indian food is notorious for being too tricky to pair with wines. While blending food with wine, the purpose is to balance the flavours of both, such that neither the food nor the wine overpowers the other. Consider these points to find the best match for a cuisine that is a complex mix of spices and sauces.
Raventos I Blanc, De Nit/ Rose’ Cava
heat, not add to it. In order to balance out the heat, choose a wine with juicy, ripe fruit and/ or with residual sugar to mellow out the spice a bit. Stay away from high alcohol content – it will only exaggerate the spice. Apart from weight, the intensity of both the elements also needs to
Gradually citrus aroma subtly emerges with memories of fresh white fruit and a touch of cassis. BODY & TASTE : It has smooth volume and fruity texture, with pleasant freshness and fine bubbles. Good balance with lingering finish of fresh fruit. S U G G E S T E D F O O D PA I R ING : Makes a great bubble
drink and pairs best with steamed/ grilled/ sautéed seafood. Also goes well Spanish traditional tapas and Middle Eastern specialities and chocolate combinations. PRICE : ` 3,540 by VARALIKA VIJ
complement. Delicate flavoured wines and strong flavoured food. Since the Indian cuisine is essentially intense, choose robust flavours to accompany it. Never pair a dry wine with foods that have a degree of sweetness, for they will seem tart and acidic in taste. The sweeter the food, the
sweeter the wine needs to be. Dry wines go well with heavy meat dishes (like lamb) instead. The Processo, that is otherwise consumed to clean the palate, works really well with Papri Chaat, with a bit of residual sugar and taste to soothe the diverse flavours and spice.
APRIL 2013|CityScan|71
critics crunch
Cocktails & Dreams, Speakeasy AMBIENCE: TASTE: SERVICE: CUISINE: Speakeasy Bar MEAL FOR TWO: ` 2,100 approx. (including alcohol and taxes)
‘S
peakeasy’, as we would like to call it, is the typical neighbourhood bar serving interesting cocktails. Cocktails & Dreams, located in sector 15 of Gurgaon, is themed around the Prohibition Era of the United States. The ambience is fresh and is inspired by the American 1920’s and 1930’s, which also incorporates a stage for live band performances over the weekend. As this bar specializes in cocktails, one can find numerous ‘must try’s’ with special emphasis on the Blueberry Ramble (their version of a Cosmopolitan) and Foghorn (an interesting mix of Gin and Ginerale). One of the most pleasing things about this bar is that the bartenders are extremely knowledgeable about the drinks and 72|CityScan|APRIL 2013
offer variations with different bases. The food too is delicious, but the fare here definitely falls short as compared to the drinks. As the food menu aces in quality and not quantity, couple of the appetizers such as the Pig in the Blanket and the Flat Breads are heavenly. To complement the feel, they have different musicians performing on weekends, jazz and blues one thing that you would not want to miss at this bar. Speakeasy is as innovative as it can get and if you’re lucky, you might even run into a poetic narration session or a stand up show. Negative marks? We would say that if you are coming to this bar, not to try their cocktails and but only to enjoy a meal, then this is not the place for you. This bar specializes in its drinks and as prompt as they are with their alcohol, they are a bit relaxed on their food service. This bar lives up to its name of being a speakeasy cocktail bar and cannot be really categorized as a restaurant. Timings: 5 pm to 12am. Live Band: Weekend (Friday/Saturday/Sunday). Where: SCO-23, Sector 15, Part 2 (Behind Galaxy Hotel), Gurgaon.
Bora Bora
AMBIENCE: TASTE: SERVICE: CUISINE: Polynesian MEAL FOR TWO: ` 1,500 (without alcohol)
I
f you are looking for a change of scene outside the common Italian and Oriental fare, try the recently opened Hawaiian themed restaurant, Bora Bora, Delhi’s first Tiki Bar, located just behind Select CITYWALK. The interiors are similar to what you will find at the island of Bora Bora with a Polynesian touch to everything counting Aloha scenic on the wall, lamps with sea shells and interiors hewed out of bamboo, lahala, tapa cloth, fishnet etc. The attendees at Bora Bora are dressed in beach shirts and hats, and girls in beautiful flowery net dresses. Subsequent to the Hawaiian theme you will be greeted with an orchid garland if you happen to visit on a Sunday. One of the main attractions is the various drinks on offer. We tried Bora Bora special, a rum based cocktail. If you are looking for something with a non-alcoholic base, try their special frothy coconut water which will make way to your table in a monkey shell. Tamarind and Tofu Crispy Cup, in which tofu was deep fried with homemade tamarind sauce spiced with red chillies and ginger,
Harem Opiate AMBIENCE: TASTE: SERVICE: CUISINE: Pan Asian MEAL FOR TWO: ` 2,500 plus taxes (with alcohol)
I
f you are an aficionado for Asian cuisine with a fondness for Oriental ambience, here comes one more entrant
was a light starter, and Chicken Satay Ayam with Creamy Peanut Butter and Cucumber Relish was equally appetizing, so much so that one person can binge on the entire portion. The starters triggered our appetite and we ordered for Phad Thai Noodles with Tofu and Chicken Penang Curry with Jasmine Rice, which had chicken cooked with a velvety coconut crème. These were perfect fillers having the right proportion of ingredients with no flavour too overwhelming. Some other must-try dishes are Cantonese Pan Fried Noodles, Grilled Chicken Streak with Tomato Risotto & Mushroom sauce and Vegetable Ragout. The dessert menu comprises of Exotic Tropical Fruit Bowl, Green Tea Brulee, Lemon Sorbet, Fresh Mint Tea and Jasmine Tea. We opted for Churros with Hot Chocolate (as recommended), not heavy but sweet enough to make up for our glucose diet of the day. With that we made our move out until we are prepared to say ‘aloha’ again! Where: Behind Select CITYWALK, Saket, New Delhi
in the posh colony of Sunder Nagar – Harem Opiate. The dimly lit ambience with soothing music is contrary to the rock theme based restaurants in the town. Though the live cooking stations added to the feel and excitement of the restaurant, some may find the fumes overpowering. In this three-storeyed restaurant you can also dine at the open space of the roof top. The menu entails typical Asian cuisines and we chose Basa with sauteed red onion and poy choy lemon butter sauce which was among their most famous sea food options and was soft and egg like. Vegetarians can try Por Phia rolls, paper-thin crepe made from rice flour with stuffing served steamy hot with hoisin and chilli sauce. You can accompany your food with cocktails like minty scotch while beer would be an equally decent option. In the mains vegetarians can relish assorted grilled veggies with lemon butter soya sauce accompanied with Teppan special sticky fried rice; non-vegetarians can satiate their bellies with something exotic like Peking Roast Duck and Beggars Chicken. Though the dessert session was simple, their concoctions made it unusual. They have options like Grilled banana or Candied Ginger with Chocolate sauce and Coconut fruit crumble. We tucked away Opiate chocolate fondue, which came with marshmallows, kiwi, brownies and cherries. We went on to try Iced Kachang which was more of a chuski, dipped in cashew nuts. Visit once to have an experience yourself. Where: 4, Sunder Nagar Market, New Delhi u by TEAM CITYSCAN APRIL 2013|CityScan|73
city living
74|CityScan|APRIL 2013
city living
TETEA-TETE WITH RITU DALMIA by NEETA LAL
Super chef, cookbook author, TV presenter and restaurateur, Ritu Dalmia, 40, is a quintessential multifaceted persona. Co-owner of the popular Italian restaurant Diva in Delhi which she established in 2000, this versatile lady also straddles other eateries such as ‘Latitude 28’ and ‘Cafe Diva’. Not the one to be bogged down by just one vocation, Ritu has also forayed successfully into TV by hosting popular cookery shows like ‘Italian Khana’, before publishing her first cookbook by the same name in 2009. Her TV show ‘Traveling Diva’ is where she synergizes her love for food and travel. Here, she tells us what she loves and hates about the city…
On being a Delhiite Although I was born in Calcutta, I have been living in Delhi since I was seven years old, and every time I see my parents I want to kiss them and thank them for moving to Delhi, when they did. I don’t think I could live in any other city in India but Delhi.
Yeh hai Delhi meri jaan /What I like about this city Everything! OK, almost everything! I am in the food business, so for me this city is the ‘gastro capital’ of India, whether it is Dahi Chaat from Natraj or Bhatura Channa from Embassy, or Karims and Jawahar from Jama Masjid or Parathe Wali Gali from Purani Delhi. I think this city has some of the finest eateries in this country. I love the pockets of greenery and unexpected calm in the midst of the concrete jungle that is now Delhi, the large population that inhabits it and the millions of cars that pollute it. Thank God for beautiful gardens like Nehru Park, and Lodhi Gardens in Lutyen’s Delhi. Once in a while I like to go to old Delhi in the Metro, and it makes me feel very proud on seeing how amazingly clean and efficient that is. I travel a lot, and every time I land, and see this amazing city from an aerial perspective, I feel a nice fuzzy sense of warmth. Yes I do love this city!
APRIL 2013|CityScan|75
city living
Diva Café – Greater Kailash 1
Uff yeh Delhi / What I don't like
Special hotspots in Delhi
Delhi is a great city but our infrastructure is hanging by a thread. It needs a lot of improvement. During the monsoons, every time one gets stuck on the road due to water-clogging, it makes me absolutely mad! It’s not the government alone that's to blame as we citizens too have very little respect for public property and lack basic civic sense. Another thing I have never been able to understand about this city is its culture of showing off. A Delhiite has far more pretensions than someone from say Calcutta or Mumbai. Where you live, what you drive and what brand you are wearing is how you get judged in this city and it really amuses and annoys me. In fact Delhi truly represents the paradox of our country’s ostentatious wealth and heart-wrenching poverty.
THE BOOK SHOP, Jorbagh
Favourite eateries in Delhi
GOOD EARTH STORE, Khan Market
I love Royal China and go there mainly for the dim sums. It is one of the very few restaurants that has chueng fun on the menu, those steamed chinese rolls are pure heaven. MEGU at Leela Palace Chanakyapuri is another restaurant favourite. I don't even want to take a table here; I am just happy sitting at the sushi bar and eating the freshest sushi in town! When I am in the mood for junk food, then it has to be chaat in Bengali Market, kulfi at Roshan's, lassi in Dariba, and samosas at Tewari Brothers in Chandni Chowk. For South Indian, it has to Be Sarvana Bhawana, Connaught Place, I have been told by all my Tamilian friends that this is where sambhar tastes the way it should! But for me what does the trick are the Medhu Vadas – perfectly fried, light and fluffy and with this right tasting sambhar, very seldom can one go wrong with it! Sunday breakfast at L’Opera, Khan Market is always a treat, a steaming cup of café au lait, flakey croissant followed by an almond tart… it’s a great way to start a day. 76|CityScan|APRIL 2013
For me this is still the nicest bookshop in Delhi, and I’d rather buy my books here than order online.
HUMAYUN’S TOMB
When I have guests from overseas, I always recommend they go and see Humayun’s Tomb in the soft morning light, anywhere between 7.00 am and 8.00 am. It will touch your soul like no other monument can ever do. Lodhi Garden – yes it maybe clichéd, but I still am very happy when I go to Lodhi Gardens for a walk, especially when I need to gather my thoughts. You will always find a quiet spot just for yourself. I love this home store and I have to admit it is not very favourable for my wallet. There also is a restaurant on the top floor of the shop. I think it is the best Good Earth shop in the whole country.
Delhi’s famed culture Though Delhi has its unique iconic culture due to the myriad influences it has had over the centuries – from the Kayastha, Baniya, Muslim and Punjabi communities – I’ll say I’m the wrong person to comment on it as the only culture I know is agriculture! But jokes apart, Delhi is blessed with a plethora of historic monuments, and that adds so much character to the city. And there are also great venues for concerts, cultural events, theatre and so on. Every time I have seen a performance at the Purana Quila or at any other historic rampart, it has filled my heart with pride.
city living
Dimsums at Royal China
Delhi & my success When I opened my first restaurant in Delhi in 1993, it was a super failure, and I was very scared when I ventured again into business and re-opened Diva in Delhi in 2000. I think when I opened the earlier eatery, I was not patient enough – because in the last 13 years of Diva I have realised that Delhites love to eat and are loyal to the places where they eat. Unlike Mumbaikars, for whom the most important thing is an outing, and food is secondary, Delhi people take their food seriously and that's why chef driven-restaurants like ours have managed to succeed.
My mantra for success ???????????????
I have no mantra for success, I just believe in two things – to work hard, and to ensure no monotony comes into my work
A typical day in the life of Ritu Dalmia Breakfast at L’Opera
I wake up, sit on my deck to drink my coffee and listen to the birds in my garden. This is also the time when I answer my emails, and plan my day. I leave for work around 11.am. First stop is Diva at GK-II and then the whole day is spent between the various restaurants, food trials and new recipe development. Around 6.00 pm I either go to use the gym or go for a walk – either to Lodhi Gardens or the Safdarjung tomb. By 8.00 pm I’m back at Diva, and then in the restaurant till about midnight.
Hobbies and pastimes
Sushi at MEGU
I love music, and do a lot of research on new artists and alternative music. I like to make all the play lists for all our restaurants. If I was not a chef, I would have been a talent scout for sure! I also like to read – everything from erotica to crime thrillers to metaphysics. I have to read a few pages of a book every night before I hit the pillow. I am also addicted to TV dramas, and I am very happy when I have long distance flights because that's the time I catch up with all the episodes of Grey’s Anatomy, Mad Men and Downton Abbey Every Sunday I have to go for a movie in a cinema hall. There is nothing quite like watching a film on a big screen with popcorn and coke.
Delhi’s Celebrity Culture Mumbai may brag about its Bollywood crowd but it is Delhi celebrities who make this city rock! Artists, writers, power honchos…. I am quite a star-struck person, and every time a favourite author or an artist comes into my restaurant, I just get super excited. However if I were to pick one favourite celebrity, I would choose Arundhati Roy, the author of ‘God of Small Things’ – one of the few books that I have read twice. Although she is too shy to be termed a celebrity, I think she is one of the many who makes Delhi proud. I just love her open honest smile, and the fact she also eats at my restaurants gives her that extra brownie point! u APRIL 2013|CityScan|77
city living
W
ith temperatures soaring, outdoor activities for children can be rapidly tiring and dehydrating, not only for you but for your child as well. We discover interesting fun games for kids to try within the cool comfort of a mall. Of course there is that added benefit of using the time to quickly catch up on some shopping too. We explore a mall each in Noida, South Delhi and Gurgaon to help you find your closest kiddie world.
The Great India Place, Noida
The Great India Place offers its shoppers an unmatched shopping and entertainment environment with its gamut of retail stores and amusement options. On the top floor of the mall, you can walk into F123 (adjacent to the food court) and find various games such as bowling, air hockey, bike races and pool tables meant for both children and parents. Outside the mall, Worlds of Wonder is worth a visit. It is an
Stellar Museum (Ambience Mall)
amusement park with facilities such as a pool, rain dancing, and a variety of thrilling rides, with Disco being the most exhilarating. Some of the other rides are Shanghai Swinger, Chart Smashers, and Feed Back, all sure to get your kiddie’s pulse racing. At the Road Show section, where you can enjoy music and different rides. An
BEATING SUMMER BOREDOM FOR KIDS Entertainment options for children in cool and comfortable city malls
Blu-O (Ambience Mall) 78|CityScan|APRIL 2013
entry fee of ` 749 allows unlimited rides. Another favourite game here amongst kids is Paintball, which is a simulated mock fight with guns and dye capsules that act as bullets. It is a challenging and exciting sport for both adults and youth and is played by teams. The tickets start from ` 150.
Select CITYWALK, Saket
A chic premier shopping mall, Select Citywalk houses several Indian and international brands and popular Delhi eateries. Perhaps less known is their main offering for little ones – Hang Out, an amusement centre on the fourth floor, with many games and rides for people of all ages such as Typhoon Twin Seating Virtual Rider, Terminator Hunt Down, Soccer Mania, Virtual Bowling, Basketball Boards and Jungle Safari Shoot Out. Their main attraction is a 3D/4D motion ride theatre with bubbles, winds and blizzards. An interesting aspect is the ‘rainforest theme’ where Monku (Hang Out’s mascot) appears every hour with a whole lot of musical entertainment. This area also has a café and family restaurant, encouraging family dining and also giving parents a place to unwind over a cup of coffee and have a meal while the kids are having fun. To avail these facilities you have to buy a card starting at ` 500 minimum.
Hang Out (SELECT CITYWALK)
Hang Out (SELECT CITYWALK)
Ambience Mall, Gurgaon
Hang Out (SELECT CITYWALK)
With more than 300 premium retail shops, Ambience Mall offers its young patrons some of the most interesting entertainment services in town. Start with iSkate, India’s first natural ice skating rink which offers a unique experience of leisure and physical activity, is open for all age groups and is perhaps the most suited to cool off this summer. The ice skating complex has Penguin Buddies skating aids which don’t slip on ice and give a safe skating experience. You can now also relish Italian ice creams with sandwiches and fresh salads in between skating sessions. Blu-O has a separate bowling alley for children to ensure their safety. With 25 lanes, you are sure to be accommodated quickly. For your hunger pangs they serve nachos, loaded potato skins, Jalapeno peppers, Thai style spring rolls and more. Fun City is an entertainment hub with options like virtual games, video games, bumper cars and rides. A hot choice among kids is predictably Buddies Bungee, a kiosk with a mini bungee jumping facility that is located in the atrium of the mall. And last, but not least, is the more intellectual learning zone in the Stellar Children’s Museum that offers a welcoming, safe, imaginative, child-centred learning environment with over 50 interactive exhibits, a theatre, a café and a store. Stellar Children’s Museum also has a theatre space which will host multiple activities, like workshops on music, dramatics, and story-telling and ‘Mom & Me’ programmes for toddlers and parents. The Museum has a number of role-play and collaborative work exhibits that give the child valuable learning opportunities. Price: ` 600 per child. u by ANUPRIYA BISHNOI APRIL 2013|CityScan|79
city living
Plunge into luxury pools this summer Soaking in the swimming pool is something one loves and longs for in the extreme Delhi heat and doing this in plush pools of luxury hotels becomes all the way more exciting with every comfort at your disposal. CityScan brings you a look at pools worth considering this season. So whether you are a hotel resident or a non-resident, read on to know which hotel suits you the best and get ready with your swimming costumes.
Crowne Plaza, Okhla 80|CityScan|APRIL 2013
The Claridges, Surajkund
CROWNE PLAZA, Okhla
THE CLARIDGES, Surajkund
N
C
COST: Spa membership starts from ` 90,000 CONTACT: +91 129 4190 000
COST: ` 15,000 + taxes for 20 classes (duration 1hr) in a month. CONTACT: +911 4646 2000
estled in a forested neighbourhood, making it the perfect place for repose, The Claridges, Surajkund, Delhi, NCR, is set amid sylvan surroundings overlooking the 10th century heritage Surajkund Lake Complex. Claridges provides swimming classes to its hotel guests as well as to the non-residents but it is subject to availability. With the presence of lifeguard all the time, leave your safety worries to them. Spa members have the privilege of enjoying additional amenities which include the fitness centre, steam and sauna facilities. After the swimming session you can relax at O!pool lounge which serves light snacks and non-alcoholic beverages to hotel guests as well as spa members.
rowne Plaza, Okhla, the avant-garde business hotel fuses business with leisure; offering a multitude of award winning wine and dine options. Invigorate your body and mind and at their Spa for a rejuvenating experience or swim some laps at the outdoor pool to revitalize yourself. The swimming classes at Crowne Plaza will commence from 1st April which will last till October. The non-residents too can enjoy the pool privileges with a fee of Rs. 1,000 per day. The lifeguards at Crowne Plaza are YMCA certified and the presence of swimming coaches will just make your experience better. If you are a Priority Plus card member which is Crowne Plaza’s loyalty program, you will get a discount of 20% on pool and spa memberships.
APRIL 2013|CityScan|81
???????? ???????
Radisson Blu, Mahipalpur
RADISSON BLU, Mahipalpur
R
Hyatt Regency
HYATT REGENCY, Bhikaji Cama Place
L
ocated in the commercial hub of Bhikaji Cama Place, Hyatt Regency is close to embassies, consulates and corporate headquarters, making it one of the most preferred business hotels in the city. Within this New Delhi luxury hotel, guests can enjoy numerous facilities for leisure, including an outdoor swimming pool and the Club Olympus Fitness Centre and Spa or experience the best in shopping at the hotel’s multilevel retail complex. Since the pool at the hotel is open from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m., you can easily choose your convenient time to indulge in swimming session. The facili82|CityScan|APRIL 2013
ties of the pool can be enjoyed if you take the membership of Club Olympus which allows you to use the fitness centre, pool and certain facilities of the spa and Jacuzzi. You can pamper yourself at the spa or unwind those stressed muscles at the gym or at the pool. The pool bar at Hyatt Regency offers an extensive selection of beverages, snacks menu along with healthy menu that entails a list of healthy options like farm fresh fruit juices and smoothies along with a list of healthy snack options. PRICE: Club Olympus membership starts from
` 1,50,00 per person. CONTACT: +911 2679 1234
adisson Blu Plaza Delhi offers a feel-at-home business or leisure stay with easy access to shopping and business districts of both Delhi and Gurgaon. Guests can savour the critically acclaimed cuisine, enjoy topof-the-line service, relax at the Savannah bar, de-stress at the R- The spa and soak in the pool during summers. Though Radisson, Mahipalpur’s pool is not open for non-residents but residents having spa membership can enjoy pool facilities for free as it entitles the guests to use the pool complimentary. Its spa offers a complete wellness experience with a choice of messages and the right blend of Asian traditions and European therapies. In all detail – its self-contained opulent themed suites equipped with aqua bed with a floating experience, Vichy shower, hamam table and experience shower – the spa is designed to comfort, pamper, relax, replenish and rejuvenate. During leisure, unwind yourself at the swimming pool which has guard deported all the time. After a nice swim you can treat yourself at The Pastry Shop with some of the best pastries, cakes, savories, breads and chocolates. PRICE: If you are not a spa member, pool membership costs ` 40,000 for one person, ` 75,000 for couple and ` 1 lakh for family. (Taxes additional) CONTACT: +911 2677 9191 u
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celebrity in town
SRI DEVI
ELEGANT AND GRACIOUS
84|CityScan|APRIL 2013
celebrity in town After a long gap of 15 years you have made a successful come-back with English-Vinglish. What drove you to do this movie? English-Vinglish was one movie with which the fraternity of women across our entire nation could identify. India is a country where women in normal households don’t speak English. This movie comes with a message and many women around the world have actually started learning the English language after watching this movie. I am glad I was chosen to be a medium in helping women to keep themselves updated.
RAPID FIRE What is style to you? To me style is comfort and I am most comfortable in simple track pants. Who do you think is the style diva in the industry? I love the way Konkana Sen and Vidya Balan dress. The way they carry themselves is really commendable. Saris or gowns? Saris, definitely. Is your acting style spontaneous or do you follow method acting? It has to be spontaneous. I am excellent at my first shot, good at the second, average at the third and worst at the fourth. So acting is something which happens spontaneously with me, at the first go. What do you feel has been your most challenging role so far? I am not sure about that but yes, dancing for ‘’Najane kahan se aayi hai’’ from Chaalbaaz was quite a task for me. What are your upcoming projects? I will be a part of the Mr. India sequel. Do you like travelling? If yes, then what is your favourite destination? I love to travel but only with my family. Milan is my favourite travel hot-spot.
What do you think about Indian film industry – then and now? Things have definitely changed in the past
She started acting when she was just four years old, little knowing the great heights she would reach one day. During her legendary career she has bagged many awards including four prestigious Filmfare awards as well as the fourth highest civilian award in the country – Padma Shri. From Mr. India to English-Vinglish, Sridevi has consistently proved her acting mettle and still projects an aura of eternal elegance. On her recent visit to the Capital, she spoke with CityScan and reminisced about her career in the 80’s and about her life at present. She speaks fondly of the Capital and tells us that her favourite hangout in this city is Khan Market.
few years in the terms of acting as well as dancing. We have some really great actors coming up and in terms of dancing too I feel there have been huge changes. Earlier every song was accompanied by a dance but now most of the songs are without any dance and still you love them. This surely is a huge change in Indian film industry. What do you feel about the actors today? I think actors today are brilliant. They are talented. Apart from acting they dance too very well. I love the way Shah Rukh Khan dances. In fact actresses like Rani Mukherjee, Katrina Kaif, Deepika Padukone, Sonam Kapoor, Aishwarya Rai are all both brilliant actors as well as dancers. What is your criteria before approving any script? Well it’s simple. While the director is narrating me the story I should feel ‘’Waah! This is the story. I’ll do it’’. There are no concrete principles that I follow before approving a script or for that matter, while doing the role.
Any plans on joining the TV bandwagon? I don’t believe in planning and am not really sure if I will be seen on small screen but if anything comes up which is nice and I am comfortable doing, then why not? We have always seen you dressed so elegantly at award functions and events. What is your personal style sense? For me I have to be comfortable in what I am wearing, plus my attire should reflect who I am. So it should always be elegant and dignified. I never step out of my house without getting approvals from my husband and kids. I think I like taking their consent. You are into this industry since the age of four but we haven’t seen your kids in the limelight yet. Is this because of a conscious effort on your part? To begin with they are kids and all I want them to do is to finish their studies first sincerely and then pursue whatever they want to in their career. It will be their choice. u by ANUPRIYA BISHNOI APRIL 2013|CityScan|85
Ananda in the Himalayas
Restore Your Inner Balance
HEALTH AND WELLNESS RETREATS IN INDIAD
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If you are tired, exhausted, drained or looking for a detox for health reasons, we bring you the five leading holistic wellness retreats in India that promise to relax your tired mind and body and renew your energies in an oasis of calm and tranquillity
city getaways Ananda In The Himalayas UTTARANCHAL
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n the foothills of the Himalayas, Ananda is a luxury spa destination dedicated to restoring balance and harmonising energy through a holistic approach, incorporating the healing principles of the East and the West with a specific focus on Ayurveda and Aromatherapy. The resort features a restored Viceroy’s Palace, a world-class spa, 75 deluxe rooms and suites and three villas. There are 24 treatment rooms, two relaxation rooms and four consultation rooms. An amphitheatre, yoga pavilions in natural surroundings and landscaped gardens complete the palatial Ananda experience. The treatments are designed by the spa head, Colin Gary Hall to promote a way to wellness and a better quality of life for all clients. Ayurveda-Abhyanga massage liquefies toxins in the body readying them to be expelled. International treatments such as Aromatherapy use pure essential oils taken from plants which either invigorate, or detox the body and mind. Yoga and meditation places mind over matter with a marked effect on the wellbeing of a person. Apart from these, Ananda also offers wellness programmes such as the Ananda Renew, Detox, Yogic Detox, Stress Management, Weight Management and Ayurvedic Rejuvenation. Ananda offers several outdoor adventure options including trekking, white water rafting, nature walks, and also arranges visits for viewing the wild elephants of Rajaji National Park. CLIENTS AND ACCREDITATIONS : Celebrity clients include Anushka Sharma, Oprah Winfrey, Heidi Klum, Uma Thurman and Hillary Swank. In 2012, Ananda won the Best Spa from the Readers Choice Awards of Conde Nast Traveller, Russia, and Best Spa in the World in the “Spa Retreats” category from Conde Nast Travel, and Reader’s
Shreyas Yoga Retreat
Spa Awards (UK) and the Lifestyle Spa of the Year from NDTV. FACILITIES : Spread over 24,000 sq. feet, the spa also features luxurious hydrotherapy facilities, a beauty institute, an outdoor temperaturecontrolled swimming pool, sauna, steam rooms, and a fully equipped gymnasium. COST: Wellness packages start at ` 30,500 for double occupancy for five nights. This includes Ayurvedic Consultation (where required), Fitness Consultation, three Ananda Rejuvenation Spa Cuisine meals (breakfast/ lunch/ dinner) per night per person, the use of all facilities and scheduled wellness activities, workshops and excursions. CONTACT: The Palace Estate, Narendra Nagar, Dist. Tehri-Garhwal, Uttaranchal – 249175 India. Call 91 - 1378- 227500 or visit www. anandaspa.com
Shreyas Yoga Retreat BENGALURU
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hreyas Yoga Retreat, a member of Relais & Châteaux (a collection of unique luxury hotels worldwide), is an exclusive retreat which offers guests the experience of a spiritual way of life without sacrificing worldly comforts. It does this through the practice of yoga, and it provides a meditative place to retreat, reflect and rediscover yourself. The uniqueness of Shreyas lies in its absolute commitment to yoga and its integration into daily life. You will have an opportunity to learn and practice yoga postures for health and fitness along with breathing and meditation classes, and to enjoy rejuvenating massages, as well as chanting classes. The retreat offers an understanding of authentic yoga and meditation practices in a luxurious environment, suitable for all ages and levels of experience. In addition, this eco-friendly retreat caters to all dietary requirements such as vegan, wheat-free, lactose-free and provides opportunities for community services for guests to be able to interact with the locals and also for them to get their hands dirty working on the retreat’s organic farm. Shreyas promises a tranquil escape from the stresses of daily life to pamper the body, relax the mind and gently bring back balance into our overworked lives. CLIENTS AND ACCREDITATIONS : Shreyas has welcomed singers, sports persons and cine celebrities from India and overseas and has won various recognitions and awards over time. FACILITIES : These include an infinity pool, heated outdoor jacuzzi, gymnasium, library, jogging track, an in-house Ayurvedic doctor, and wellness consultations. The retreat is open through out the year. COST: They offer various packages starting from three nights onwards that can be customised to suit individual requirements. Rates start from ` 12,000 per night plus taxes, which include all meals, twice daily yoga sessions, a daily meditation session and use of all recreational facilities. APRIL 2013|CityScan|87
city getaways CONTACT: Shreyas Retreat, Santoshima Farm, Gollahalli Gate, Nelamangala, Bangalore 562123, India. Call 080 – 27737102 or visit http:// www.shreyasretreat.com.
Soukya International Holitistic Health Centre BENGALURU
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he name says it all : Soukya is derived from the Sanskrit word ‘soukhyam’ meaning well-being and a harmonious state of the mind, body and spirit. Their logo, designed by Suja Issac, co-founder, symbolises the unity of nature and human life in the quest for wholesome well-being. Soukya is a residential holistic health and integrative medical centre spread over 30 acres of organic farmland. This 25 room facility has been built in traditional Indian architectural style with South Indian inner courtyards and handcrafted roof and floor tiles. Soukya’s approach is to treat every individual holistically whether they come for medical treatment or simply for better health. It takes individual lifestyles into context as well as psychological, emotional, nutritional, sociological and spiritual aspects. Their purpose is to help restore one’s natural balance with the integration of different traditional
systems of medicine (including Ayurveda, Naturopathy, Homeopathy) and complementary therapies (including Yoga, Acupuncture, Hydrotherapy, Mud therapy, etc) from around the world not excluding Allopathy or western medicine. All wellness and medical programmes are individualised, need based and administered by doctors and trained therapists/practitioners.
Soukya aims to restore one’s natural balance with the integration of different traditional systems of medicine (including Ayurveda, Naturopathy, Homeopathy) and complementary therapies (including Yoga, Acupuncture, Hydrotherapy, Mud therapy, etc) from around the world not excluding Allopathy or western medicine.
Soukya International Holistic Health Centre 88|CityScan|APRIL 2013
CLIENTS AND ACCREDITATIONS : They have received several ratings and awards including ‘Best of India – Place for Nature Cure’ from India Today in 2006, ‘Best Wellness Centre’ award at the National Tourism Awards of 2008-2009, and ‘Best Ayurvedic Spa’ award at the 1st Vogue Beauty Awards hosted by Conde Nast India. FACILITIES : Soukya has 44 treatment rooms (separate for male and female) and use eco-friendly systems like solar heated water, and energy saving devices along with rain water harvesting. They grow over 200 plants in an Ayurvedic medicinal garden which supplies ingredients for distinct Ayurvedic therapies. They also serve organic and healthy food. Additionally, they have a 2 km walking track, a unique reflexology walk, a swimming pool, snooker table and an informal library. COST: $500 per night inclusive of all taxes. C O N TAC T : Soukya Foundation Charitable Trust, 202, Parvathi Plaza, 105 Richmond Circle, Bengaluru – 560 067, India. Call 0802214625 or visit www.soukyafoundation.org.
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The Beach House Wellness Centre
Kairali – The Ayurvedic Healing Village KERALA
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airali – The Ayurvedic Healing Village is dedicated to bringing the benefits of Ayurveda to its guests. It offers solutions based on the traditional Ayurvedic system of oil massages. The treatments are carried out by the well trained & experience Ayurvedic therapists under the supervision of experienced Ayurvedic physicians/ doctors. The unique programme at Kairali Healing Village combines Ayurveda, Yoga and Meditation theory with the chance to experience the exotic art and cultural forms of Kerala. The Ayurvedic Healing Village is aiming to offer its clients the finest Ayurvedic treatments in hygienic conditions surrounded by a lush green and invigorating landscape. Kairali specialises in providing treatments through Ayurvedic Panchakarma therapies for various ailments such as Arthritis, Spondylitis, Migraine, Obesity, Slipped Disc and others. Astrology & palmistry is available on request. An interesting Valambari conch is placed in each villa to give positive vibrations to the body. Red oxide is used on the floor of all villas for its natural cooling ability. The resort serves vegetarian food only. In addition, they offer complimentary workshops on yoga, cooking etc. CLIENTS AND ACCREDITATIONS : Kairali – The Ayurvedic Healing
Village has been nominated under “India’s Leading Resort” category in the World Travel Awards of 2009 & 2010, and it was selected as one of the best Wellness Meccas in the World among the top 10 in Asia and the top 50 in the world by National Geographic Traveller. It has also been awarded “Best Ayurvedic Health Resort” by India Travel Awards. FACILITIES : It has 30 villas, each in accordance with the principles of Vastu Shastra and ten treatment rooms. Additional facilities available are yoga, meditation, swimming pool, library and recreational facilities for children. COST: Packages start at ` 26,600 for three nights for double occupancy. This includes three meals, two daily Ayurvedic treatments per person, and daily yoga and meditation sessions.
Kairali – The Ayurvedic Healing Village CONTACT : Kairali Ayurvedic Health Resort, Olassery, Kodumbu, Palakkad Dist. - 678551, Kerala, India. Call on +91-11-65028307 or +91-9999231117 or visit www.kairali.com
The Beach House Wellness Centre GOA
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erched on the edge of picturesque Sernabatim beach and an ideal escape from the stresses of hectic daily life, The Beach House assures a perfect environment of peace and calm along with all ingredients for natural rejuvenation and relaxation. The centre follows the belief that the best results are achieved by ensuring that the three body systems – the physical, the physiological and the psychological are all maintained in a state of balance to allow your body’s powerful self-healing abilities to do their work. With a team of on-site professional consultants including Ayurvedic doctors, nutritionists, spa therapists, yoga instructors, fitness instructors and life-coaches, each all-inclusive program is tailored to the individual to assist guests in achieving their goals. They offer a range of packages from weight management, juice fasting detox, yoga, rejuvenation and total body rebalancing. CLIENT S AND ACCREDITATIONS : The Beach House has been popular with both Indian and internationally known clientele but do not disclose any such information out of respect for the guest’s privacy. FACILITIES : The property has nine modern beautifully designed rooms of which seven are in duplex villas. The main house also has an expansive reception, lounge and dining area opening out onto a stunning deck with fabulous 180 degree views of the sea. The spa treatment rooms are housed in quaint spa tents, clustered amidst coconut palms and flowering trees to offer privacy. C O S T : Prices range from ` 1,05,000 to ` 1,59,500 for all inclusive packages. Details are available on their website. CONTACT: The Beach House, Goa Sernabatim Beach, Goa 403709, India. Call 0832 – 6697733 or visit www.thebeachhousegoa.com u As told to PRIYAANKA BERRY APRIL 2013|CityScan|89
city events
Smeeta Chakrabarti, CEO, NDTV Lifestyle; Vikram Chandra, CEO, NDTV Group and Shilpa Shetty Kundra
Sabyasachi's fashion show
NDTV GOOD TIMES LIFESTYLE AWARDS
T Jacqueline Fernandes
Shilpa Shetty Kundra received the 'Wellness Icon of the Year' award 90|CityScan|APRIL 2013
Keith Sequira and Ambika Anand hosting the NDTV Good Times Lifestyle Awards
he recently held NDTV Good Times Lifestyle Awards honoured the best in Indian lifestyle. The winners were selected by a jury of eminent personalities. The awardees included Restaurant of the Year – Bukhara, ITC Maurya, New Delhi, NDTV Lifestyle Award of the year – Vidya Balan, Luxury Brand of the Year – HERMES and others. The occasion was graced by several socialites, fashion designers and other prominent members of society. Worth mentioning is an exclusive fashion show by fashion designer Sabyasachi Mukherjee.
(L to R) Ambika Anand, Sabyasachi Mukherjee and Milind Soman with a friend
city events
THE EQUISPORT INTERNATIONAL POLO DAY
A
good polo event is sure to bring out the best in Delhi’s glitterati. The Equisport International Polo Day hosted by Adhiraj Singh was no exception. Held at the Jaipur Polo Ground, this event witnessed, the who’s who in Delhi watch a world championship level of Polo as India and Australia battled it out. The Indian team turned out victorious against the visiting side, the scorecard reading 8 – 5 goals in favour of India. V.C. Burman and Mohit Burman
Sunanda Pushkar and Adhiraj Singh
Salman Khurshid and Malvika Singh
Raveena Raj Kohli, Gaurav Karan and Soni Aggarwal
Yashodhara Raje Scindia, Salman Khurshid and Chetan Seth
Nafisa Ali and Pia Sodhi APRIL 2013|CityScan|91
city events
“E
FOR THE LOVE OF ‘POETREE’
veryone is a poet,” says Amit Dahiyabadshah Founder of Delhi Poetree, a Delhi based poetry organisation. With the onset of Poetree organised events Dilli Kavita Kumbh and The Great Poetry Marathon, we meet with Mr. Dahiyabadshah to talk about his work and the events planned by him for the city. He is clearly on a mission to empower poets and poetry and to spread the joy and love of poetry to as many people as possible. The Delhi Poetree movement has discovered 576 poets in three years in pursuit of its established mission – to give Delhi 30 readings of poetry each month, to honour 100 contemporary poets as the Living Treasures of Delhi, and to enable at least 100 poets to earn a taxable income. A working poet, he makes his living from poetry and has done so successfully for the last 20 years. In 2010, NDTV used a poem written by Amit Dahiyabadshah – The Last Will of The Tiger – as a curtain raiser to their worldwide programme to raise ` 50 million to buy better equipment for wildlife wardens and forest staff involved with the government’s Project Tiger. In 2013 he has set himself two fairly formidable cha llenges . T he first event – Dilli K av ita Kumbh comprises 52 events featuring up to a thousand poets at 52 venues across the NCR where poetry has not been experienced before – like factory shop f loors, corporate offices, hospitals and police stations. Incorporated into this is another event called The Great Poetry Marathon in which the aim is to 92|CityScan|APRIL 2013
set a world record for the longest ever nonstop relay reading of poetry in the world. As a man who believes that India’s greatest strength is neither economic nor military, but the spiritual, cultural and creative aspects of our nature, Mr. Dahiyabadshah is quite confident of the marathon going viral and becoming a huge success. When quizzed about how poetry is going to help Delhi, Mr. Dahiyabadshah explains by comparing Delhi to a powerful car. He believes that “Big cities, especially fast growing and rapidly expanding cities like Delhi are like cars with huge high speed racing engines but no coolant.” Neither the government nor the police can adequately provide a coolant for a city of 1.5 crore people. Poetry is cheap, accessible, plentiful and universally appreciated across all levels of society. “So by taking poetry away from bookshops and the universities and straight to the community, we can help promote introspection, sympathy and proactive citizenship.” Poetry can positively help restore the collective fabric of the community in which kids are being raised. The next opportunity for Delhiites to experience poetry is on April 12 at the event Woman’s Word – Meri Awaaz Suno, to be held at the Sri Ram Centre at Mandi House, New Delhi. The event will highlight poetry on women issues, along with poems on a diverse selection of topics featuring the original works of 52 women poets and 52 senior poets of Delhi, “all wonderfully gifted and whose poetry will wake this city and rock it back on its heels in shock and awe! ”. The Wom-
Amit Dahiyabadshah shares a poem on Delhi… DELHI Where every twisting turning winding lane tells growing tales of mystery Where any piece of fallen stone could be a piece of broken history Where empires forged in blood and steel have stayed as saffron scent on kitchen air Where the paradox is everywhere of an imperial city with the flavours of a village Where a pavement dweller dares to tell you what life holds And his caged Parrot picks your chances Where a street urching steals only the tune from your car stereo and dances Where there is still shade enough for shadeful glances And where a true love still waits to be found With just four lines of good poetry…. Delhi! an’s Word selection will feature women from all walks of life, including housewives, scientists, defence personnel, diplomats, scientists, writers, students, actors, dancers, business women, along with men reading poetry presenting perspectives on women. The event’s curtain raiser features a dramatised synopsis of the state of our women and the challenge of existence and survival in a rapidly growing changing metro. u by TEAM CITYSCAN
city events Tiësto, a global EDM (electronic dance music) icon who has transcended musical genres and successfully created the global recognised ‘Tiësto’ brand is all set to rock the city with his performance. A Grammy nominee, winner of numerous MTV awards, Tiesto is the only DJ in the world to have a wax statue at Madame Tussauds and to have performed at the opening ceremony of the Olympic Games (Athens, 2004). Voted ‘The Greatest DJ of All Time’ by Mixmag in 2011 and ranked in the Top Three DJ’s since the year 2002, he is a universal phenomenon. He has had illustrious collaborations with superstars such as Kanye West, Coldplay, Katy Perry, Nelly Furtado, Yeah Yeah Yeahs, Goldfrapp and many more. Tiesto is here for a three city tour to India from March 29, 2013 with a performance in the Capital on March 31. He talks to CityScan about his music, deejaying and what made him choose a trip to India. How did your musical journey start? What inspired you to become a musician? I have always been a music fan. Back in Holland I grew up on rock music and then got into deejaying professionally. For as long as I can remember, music has been my passion and I knew my life will revolve around it. Tell us something about your musical trip to India. What motivated you to perform here? The world is such a huge and amazing place and India has a very special culture that I have always been fond of. Also people have a great sense and love for music and dance in India. It is always better to perform among people who have a sense of what you are doing. What differences do you see in the DJ industry between India and overseas? I travel a lot and every country has got its own style of music and deejaying. But over and above that, music is like a universal language. Despite regional and cultural differences, music from across the globe makes us all dance together and connect better. Understanding music itself can make people forget and move past differences and groove to music from any country.
You have been ranked No.1 for three consecutive years by DJ Magazine. What do you think could be the reason for your constant popularity and success? I have always been true to myself and when it comes to learning something new I always find new sources of inspiration which help my growth. For me, learning is a constant experience. How do you innovate and stay ahead of what your fans expect? I listen to music all day, every day. I am immersed in music all the time. I play lots of new tracks for my fans almost every day. The reaction from my fans at a show is the ultimate way to gauge new sounds and keep people on their toes. Lastly, have you got anything special that you will be specifically playing for your Indian fans? You’ll have to come to the show and find out. All I want to say is that I never upset my fans. u as told to ANUPRIYA BISHNOI
Tiësto
TO SET THE CAPITAL ABLAZE! APRIL 2013|CityScan|93
Delhi
Speak
Delhi is tough. Delhi is mesmerizing. Delhi is bizarre. Ask the expats and they will have so many things to share about the city. We gave them a chance to speak out their part of the experience in the Capital.
A NMOUNVIC AT IO N Z E AENRT IZ B L A, CO M CO & NT
M AR KE TI NG PE RT AT AC E DATA EX
Number of years that you have been staying in Delhi… 1.5 years Your hometown… Strumica, Republic of Macedonia Biggest cultural difference from your country… Shy women Biggest cultural similarity… Welcoming and talkative people Favourite place to hangout/unwind in Delhi… Select CITYWALK, Saket and ISKCON temple Favourite Indian dish… Onion Masala Dosa. I am also addicted to raita, no matter what the season is. Things you miss in Delhi, which were available at your home place… Marinated vegetables. I have forgotten what sour taste means! What has been your working experience in town? The last 8 months of work in Delhi have been very unique and memorable. Your say on Indian Cinema…favourite Hindi movie? Too much focused on boyfriend-girlfriend fairytales. Sorry to say but many times I find the direction a bit shallow and copycat. 3 Idiots and Barfi stood out of the crowd with its unique humor.
A IN R JO E S W BA N PL AN NE
AR CH IT EC T/UR
Number of years that you have been staying in Delhi… Almost 2 Your hometown… Seattle, Washington, USA Biggest cultural difference from your country… Traffic and driving culture. I would be scared to death to drive a car in Delhi because I still haven’t figured out the conventions. I do wish drivers were more respectful of cyclists on my commute. Biggest cultural similarity… Coca Cola, Lays potato chips, smart phones, Facebook, everything...India and the US are looking more similar every day. Favourite place to hangout/unwind in Delhi… G.K, Defense Colony Market. I also really like several restaurants in Nizamuddin for their mutton. Favourite Indian dish… Coconut Fish Curry from Kerala. Things you miss in Delhi, which were available at your home place… Drip coffee (brewed, not espresso). What has been your working experience in town? It’s been exciting, educational, and sometimes frustrating. Sometimes it’s hard to find what you need, but then you’ll meet someone on the street who knows someone who has exactly what you need! I love how that seems to happen constantly here. Your say on Indian Cinema…favourite Hindi movie? 3 Idiots. And anything with Rajnikanth!
HE AD
A K ER G O S IA P OMLAN AG
TI O NS PU BL IC RE LA Number of years that you have been staying in Delhi… 2 years Your hometown… Cracow, Poland Biggest cultural difference from your country… I could name lots of differences but I must say than one of the most common is lack of discipline. Also, in my society people are very independent and individualistic while India is a country of big families, where people take decisions collectively. Biggest cultural similarity… Youngsters wanting to have fun! Favourite place to hangout/unwind in Delhi… Hauz Khas Village and Deer park close to it. Favourite Indian dish… Karimeen Pollichathu - Kerala style dish in banana leaf served with lemon rice on the side. Things you miss in Delhi, which were available at your home place… Polish food specialties like Pierogi or Rye soup. Besides easily available supermarkets where you can buy everything (meat, fish and seafood) at one place. What has been your working experience in town? I have met wonderful people in Delhi but at the same time I must say that working as a foreigner professional woman in Delhi is sometimes challenging, especially because of contextual differences. Your say on Indian Cinema…favourite Hindi movie? I’m not a big fan of typical Bollywood cinema but I do appreciate screen presence of legendary stars like Shahrukh Khan. Some of my favourite Indian movies are 3 Idiots, Kahaani, Dhobi Ghat and Barfi.
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G U Y C L AHRAFKRI CA FI NA LI ST 2012)
RC HE F SO UT CH EF (M AS TE
Number of years that you have been staying in Delhi… Only a few weeks, but intending to be here for a few years at least Your hometown… Cape Town, South Africa Biggest cultural difference from your country… Would definitely be the traffic and driving culture here. It’s a maddening, yet organized chaos… but it seems to work. Biggest cultural similarity… The love for food. Cape Town is very life-size in their cuisine, as is India Favourite place to hangout/ unwind in Delhi… Hauz Khas, Lodi Gardens, Chez Nini restaurant Favourite Indian dish… Saag Chicken Curry Things you miss in Delhi, which were available at your home place… I would have to say my family and close friends. What has been your working experience in town? I cooked for an incredible top Indian businessman in South Africa, and he flew me out here to design his kitchen and be his continental head chef. It has been incredible. Your say on Indian Cinema…favourite Hindi movie? I have not seen a Hindi movie yet, but I’m very keen to.
R RA IC OERLATIEL’O R ENNO FF PÉ PIE R IC O TI RA
CH IE F O PE
Number of years that you have been staying in Delhi… Less than a year Your hometown… I was born in Zürich and grew up in Geneva, Switzerland Biggest cultural difference from your country… I was used to a very organized environment with direct communication and data driven decisions. I find here a much more human way of working. Biggest cultural similarity… Taste for fine food is huge in both places. I have been amazed to see how important a family dinner is and the care that is taken for it. Favourite place to hangout/unwind in Delhi… Hauz Khaz Village. When I feel homesick, I have a croissant and a coffee in one of our L’Opéra outlets. Favourite Indian dish… Without hesitation, paneer tikka with butter roti Things you miss in Delhi, which were available at your home place… It is now possible to find most of the goods in Delhi. However, when I have family visiting us from Europe, I always ask them to bring some cheese made out of fresh milk. What has been your working experience in town? I have spent all my time in Delhi working for our family business, L’Opéra. It is a huge gratification to work in the high end food segment, meeting all those people sensitive to the culinary art. Your say on Indian Cinema…favourite Hindi movie? I am a big Bollywood fan, but more keen on crime stories than love stories. My favourites are Zanjeer with Amitabh Bachchan and the new Race 2 with Anil Kapoor and Saif Ali Khan.
IS KAN D M D, N IK LO FASOSUFTHRAS IA
VP AN D HE ADRI FL AM E IN DI A O
Number of years that you have been staying in Delhi… For over a year now Your hometown… Koping, Sweden Biggest cultural difference from your country… The parking space limitations and the traffic. Biggest cultural similarity… Warmth in people and strong family bonds Favourite place to hangout/unwind in Delhi… Nehru Park for running, Lodi Garden for a walk with my son, La Piazza restaurant at Hyatt Regency and PVR Director’s Cut Cinema in Vasanj Kunj. Favourite Indian dish… Roti and Paneer in different styles. Things you miss in Delhi, which were available at your home place… My childhood friends, my summer house back in Sweden What has been your working experience in town? It has been great working in India as it is an important and upcoming market for Oriflame Your say on Indian Cinema…favourite Hindi movie? I love Bollywood. Nothing can really compete with the colour, drama and emotions of Indian Cinema. One movie that I really like is Iqbal.
ER A NMIV IS E TIHO NS LOU AG ER AN IC RE LA
PU BL
Number of years that you have been staying in Delhi… 5 and a half Your hometown… Dublin, Ireland Biggest cultural difference from your country… Indian traffic culture. It took some time getting used to it. Biggest cultural similarity… Family values and the importance of family Favourite place to hangout/ unwind in Delhi… To be honest, at the end of a long day, my favourite place to unwind is my home! Favourite Indian dish… Yellow Dal
– I can eat it everyday. Things you miss in Delhi, which were available at your home place… The ocean! Walking along the beach or down the pier is something I grew up with, so I really miss that. What has been your working experience in town? It’s been a very positive experience. I’ve always been blessed with great team members and seniors who have mentored me. It’s been an incredible learning curve. Your say on Indian Cinema…favourite Hindi movie? I love watching Bollywood movies, but wait for the DVD’s with English subtitles! The colours, dancing and drama cannot be beaten.
RO B L IN QU E N TSTIN UD EN T
Number of years that you have been staying in Delhi… Around 1 Your hometown… Paris, France Biggest cultural difference from your country… The hygiene culture. It’s not always so easy to find a toilet paper. Also, I guess many would say social inequalities in general and the importance of religion (and it’s linked so...). Biggest cultural similarity… Democracy and new technologies. Favourite place to hangout/ unwind in Delhi… Hauz Khas. Lodi Garden is quite peaceful too (and there are many cultural centers around). I visit Jawahar Lal Nehru University regularly. Favourite Indian dish… Chicken Tikka, Bhindi Masala. I should mention that the food at Gunpowder in Haus Khaz is great! Things you miss in Delhi, which were available at your home place… World art movies, good museums and more ladies in bars! What has been your working experience in town? I just completed an internship from the UN office in Qutab Institutional Area. It has been a nice experience. Your say on Indian Cinema…favourite Hindi movie? I personally prefer watching movies by the legendary Satyajit Ray. I even liked Gangs of Wasseypur. Otherwise, I dislike the excess of music in Indian movies.
APRIL 2013|CityScan|95
book launch
The famous literary force
JEFFREY ARCHER Please tell us a bit about the book Best Kept Secret is the third book in The Clifton Chronicles series, and picks up the story from the cliffhanger ending in The Sins of the Father. The two families face new challenges and adventures, and the action moves from London to Buenos Aires to New York with another cliffhanger ending. How was your experience of writing this book as opposed to the previous two? I’ve enjoyed writing Best Kept Secret just as much as books one and two, but of course the challenge is getting harder – having to pick up on all the characters and take them through the next twenty years, without losing the momentum and the tension in the story itself, and also making each book a novel in its own right.
After a long period of 30 years Jeffrey Archer was in India and was in the Capital for the launch of his book ‘Best Kept Secret’ – third book in the popular Clifton Chronicles series. The success of the first two volumes of the Clifton Chronicles confirms that Jeffrey’s books are as popular as ever. ‘Only Time Will Tell’ and ‘The Sins of the Father’ both topped the hardback fiction charts in the UK and were also a huge global success including India. 96|CityScan|APRIL 2013
What made you choose to launch this book in India, ahead of the global launch? My publishers always launch my books in India for a very practical reason. If we didn’t, then within 48 hours of the book’s publication in the UK, it would have been bought, pirated and be on sale on the streets of Mumbai, at a fraction of the price. Tell us about your experiences in India. Where all have you travelled and which place would
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
you like to revisit? I’ve travelled to India many times over the years, and have visited several cities – New Delhi, Chennai, Kolkata, Mumbai, Bangalore, Pune and Jaipur. I’ve never been to the coast, and have never even done the tourist spots – I would like to visit the Taj Mahal, maybe on my next trip. My visits have always been about work, visiting bookshops or speaking at inner city venues. Are you aware of Indian authors and their works? I am, and have a great deal of respect for the work of authors such as Vikram Seth and RK Narayan. What kind of books do you like to read? I love the great storytellers such as Charles Dickens and F Scott Fitzgerald. I read a lot of contemporary novels as well and indeed am in the middle of a book written by a new young Japanese author called Keigo Higashino. I also enjoy Indian writers, and consider RK Narayan’s stories wonderfully written. Would we find you reading a printed version of a book or a digital one? Both! I have a Kindle which is invaluable when I travel, but I also like to buy books and for me, this will never change. as told to ANUPRIYA BISHNOI
Jeffrey Archer firmly established himself way back in 1975 with the publication of his first novel, ‘Not A Penny More, Not A Penny Less’ which was an instant success. Today, Jeffrey continues to delight his fans with his thrilling literary masterpieces. His best-selling novels include ‘Paths of Glory’ and ‘A Prisoner of Birth’. He also wrote the three-volume memoir ‘Prison Diary’, with volumes fashioned after Dante's famous Divine Comedy.
BOOKS TOP 10 NON-FICTION…
FICTION…
On Hinduism
The Oath of the Vayuputras: Shiva Trilogy Book 3
Author: Wendy Doniger Publisher: Aleph Price: ` 995
Widely acknowledged as one of the most original scholars of Hinduism, the author, enlarges our understanding of an ancient and complex religion. Comprising a series of connected essays, On Hinduism examines crucial and contested issues in Hinduism, from the time of the Vedas to the present day.
Walking With Lions: Tales from a Diplomatic Past Author: Natwar Singh Publisher: Harper Collins Price: ` 299
Fifty episodes that entertain, inform and illuminate, featured here is Indira Gandhi as a statesman and friend, alongside other renowned figures. Recounted with empathy and humour, it is a reassuring reminder that the great too can be as fallible as the rest of us.
Samudra Manthan: Sino-Indian Rivalry in the Indo-Pacific Author: C. Raja Mohan Publisher: Oxford University Press Price: ` 895
Invoking a tale from Hindu mythology— ‘Samudra Manthan’— C. Raja Mohan tells the story of Sino Indian rivalry spilling over from the Great Himalayas into the Indian and Pacific Oceans.
Ash in the Belly
Author: Harsh Mander Publisher: Penguin Price: ` 399
A detailed examination of hunger in India based on case studies from 10 years of research in 9 states! Compelling and insightful, this book reminds us that the right to food with dignity is indeed the right to life.
Seeing Like A Feminist
Author: Nivedita Menon Publisher: Zubaan Price: ` 299
A bold and wide-ranging book that re-orders contemporary society. For Nivedita Menon, feminism is not about a moment of final triumph over patriarchy but about the gradual transformation of the social field so decisively that old markers shift forever.
Author: Amish, Publisher: Westland Price: ` 350
The Oath of the Vayuputras is the final book of the Shiva Trilogy. This book will have answers to ‘the Neelkanth’s questions about his fate, the choices he made previously and karma. This book too focuses on philosophy, religion and the never ending battle between good and evil.
Those Pricey Thakur Girls
Author: Anuja Chauhan Publisher: Harper Collins Price: ` 350
In a sprawling bungalow on New Delhi’s posh Hailey Road, Justice Laxmi Narayan Thakur and his wife spend their days watching anxiously over their five beautiful (but troublesome) daughters. Spot-on funny and toe-curlingly sexy, rom-com to read.
Best Kept Secret
Author: Jeffrey Archer Publisher: Pan Macmillan Price: ` 350
The third novel in Jeffrey Archer’s compelling saga, the Clifton Chronicles.
Until the End of Time
Author: Danielle Steel Publisher: Bantam Press Price: ` 599
If it is true that real love lasts forever and lovers cannot lose each other, then ‘Until the End of Time’ will not only comfort and fascinate, as destiny does her dance, but it will also give us hope. Love and fate are powerful, irresistible forces, in a book about courage, risk, hope and love that never dies.
The Accidental Apprentice
Author: Vikas Swarup Publisher: Simon & Schuster Price: ` 350
Little does Sapna know it but her life is about to change forever. She is approached by a CEO of one of India’s biggest companies. He tells her he is looking for a heir for his business empire. And that he has decided it should be her. Available at: BAHRISONS booksellers, New Delhi and www.toptenbooksoftheweek.com APRIL 2013|CityScan|97
don’t miss
11th Ishara International Puppet Festival Ishara has provided evocative and memorable entertainment and education for Indian audiences and attracts puppeteers and enthusiasts from all over the world. In 2013, the festival is delighted to celebrate its 11th anniversary with a wide and exciting range of performances from across the world. The festival has modern and traditional forms, ranging from rod, string and shadow puppets; to mixed performances with dance, theatre, music and more. Tickets are available at ` 350.
A theatrical act on social jibes
WHEN: 8th April – Amphitheatre IHC at 7:30 pm/ 10th April – Epicentre, Gurgaon at 7:30 pm. WHERE: Indian Habitat Centre, Lodhi Road, New Delhi
Luxury art goes on sale
Le Cigare Volant plays host to the deluded chatter of the titular ‘pricks’ in ‘Dinner for Pricks’, a satirical theatre production poking fun at the highstrung elite of the city. It’s first of its kind musical theatre production, where live entertainment is showcased through the medium of film and stage. The plays mirrors the casual jibes about loveless sex, debauchery, farcical relationships, and a mirage of pomposity that captures the clueless vapidity of today.
Interarts presents an exhibition and sale of the world’s finest objet d’art and dinnerware, a coordinated collection of luxurious classic and contemporary artefacts from Versace, Amanda Brisbane, Giuseppe Armani, Royal Dux, Wedgwood, Spode, Lladro, Franz, Rosenthal, Royal Doulton, Waterford, Shakespeare Glass, Moorcroft, Royal Albert, Falken Porzelain, Felix Bronze, Okra, Poole Pottery, Portmeirion, Royal Minton, Ian Mcdonald, Stuart Crystal, Helen Millard and more.
WHEN: 7th April 6 pm to 8 pm and 9 pm to 11 pm. WHERE: The Grand, Vasant Kunj, New Delhi
Your chance to dine at high-end restaurants at a fraction of the cost
25 well known and much loved restaurants are participating in the 6th edition of ‘Citibank Restaurant Week’ India from Delhi NCR. The format is pretty simple. The restaurants are offering a fixed three course menu for ` 1,000 for lunch and ` 1,200 for dinner per meal, excluding extras. Reservations can be made online exclusively through www.restaurantweekindia.com. WHEN: 1st to 10th April. WHERE: Few of the participating restaurants include Dakshin, Sheraton Hotel, Saket, Diva, Greater Kailash 2, Indian Accent, The Manor, Friends Colony, Kainoosh, DLF Promenade, Vasant Kunj, My Humble House, ITC Maurya, and Olive Bar & Kitchen, Mehrauli/Chanakya Puri.
98|CityScan|APRIL 2013
WHEN: 6th and 7th April. WHERE: Sheesh Mahal, Taj Palace Hotel, New Delhi
APRIL 2013|CityScan|99
24/03/2013 Date of Publication: 04/03/2013
RNI No. DELENG/2000/3645 Posting Dt. 4-9/03/2013 RNI No. DELENG/2012/47142. Posting Date 1-6/04/2013 Licence No. U(C)-299/2012-2014 W.P.P. at MCB-1 DL(C)-01/1356/2013-2015 Reg No. DL-(C)-01/1250/2012-14