City Scan October 2012

CityScan Volume 1. Issue 1. October 2012. Rs 50

delhi & NCR

burberry

The Iconic Trench raseel gujral Brighten Your Homes meherchand market The New Bazaar on the Block delhi art gallery A Masterclass in Art

INDULGE I EXPLORE I EXPERIENCE

Gauri & Nainika Timeless, Glamorous and Chic creations

PLUS Explore Cottage Emporium Pan-Asian Potpourri at Mamagoto Luxury Viewing at PVRs Director’s Cut Latest Gadgets in Town

Dear Reader, We are delighted to bring you the first issue of CityScan – your one stop pick to know where to indulge this month! The magazine covers all that is a part of your city lifestyle.

When we say the first issue, we mean ‘of a relaunched title’ that some years ago, did cover stories on the likes of Amitabh Bachchan and Rajiv Gandhi. Much has changed over the years; we too have a young team working on this magazine, and a generation down, or up, depending upon how you see it, has painstakingly drafted its contours.

There is an unmistaken buzz today in the capital that cannot be overlooked – new restaurants mushrooming in all corners serving up innovative foods; international fashion brands positioning themselves as major players; local boutique shops offering quality merchandise for you and your home; an increasing offer of luxury products such cars, spas and designer labels! & editor Navin Berry publisher

executive publisher

Priyaanka Berry

assistant editor

Varalika Vij Anupriya Bishnoi business development

Saurabh Jain

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 96 pages plus 4 pages cover

There could not have been a more opportune time to launch a magazine on this dynamically evolving lifestyle of the modern, well-educated and extensively travelled Delhiwalla, more open than ever before to indulge. Some of it you will see, in these pages, as we evolve and as we receive your feedback. Our endeavour is to make this magazine as inter-active as we can, and promise to engage with you on social media, and get to know each other better. After all, this is as much your magazine as ours!

In this issue, we bring you fashion trends for fall winter for men and women – accessories, make up and skin care products; news of latest gadgets in the market; interview with Raseel Gujral on colour trends and other home improvement and interior options; picks from Delhi Art Gallery and what is prominent for handicraft shopping at Cottage Emporium.

Focussing on shopping in Delhi NCR, each month we take you on a discovery of a mall/market in our section – discover market – see what it has to offer in terms of restaurants, clothing, jewellery, footwear, art galleries! We have surrendered ourselves to our small cocoons, and seldom venture out to beyond the known and the familiar. City life today cannot ignore eating out – wecover restaurants, new launches, new menus – desserts and drinks! In our cover story – wetalk with Delhi designers Gauri and Nainika Karan on completing 10 years in the fashion industry; take you through their iconic creations over the years and of course talk about their current collection.

We also feature a section on Delhi Speak – bringing you face-to-face with Delhites and get to know more about how they live their 24/7 experience which includes their shopping preferences, brands they patronize, restaurants they visit and more.

Life is not always a cheerful experience, we all have our pressures. Our effort in these pages is to focus on the more positive side of living it up, to remain ‘happy’ and ready to embrace the good life without having to feel guilty.

Navin S Berry

contents october

highlights‌ 6 Fresh Fall Fashion New Season’s Trends in Womenswear

12 Cover Story

Gauri and Nainika Karan - Sister Pair Styling Delhi

26 New Season Style Autumn Trends in Menswear

36

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Burberry

The Iconic Trench

44 Raseel Gujral

Brighten Up Your Homes

54 Delhi Art Gallery Masterclass in Art 60 Cottage Emporium Shopping for Handicrafts 72 Meherchand Market New Bazaar on the Block 78 Nida Mahmood Style Talk

contents october

PLUS Know Your Brand

80 82 84

Mamagoto

Pan Asian Potpourri L’Opera

The French Connection Delhi Belly

Guide to the Capital’s Gastronomic Landscape

94 PVR’s Director’s Cut Premium Viewing in a Premium Setting

34 TUMI 42 KIELHS 88 DUNKIN DONUTS in store

18 30 40 48 66 92

Women Accessories Men Accessories Him and Her Home & Kitchen Electronic Gadgets Children Trends

96 Duty Free Shopping 98 don't miss

Cover Picture courtesy

Gauri & Nainika Karan

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women apparel

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lack is a mainstay for fall. However, this time around the array of LBD’s come in a variety of novel twists. These include mostly the curve-clinging versions that hit just above or below the knee with divine details such as a peplums, daring necklines, and up-to-there slits. If you thought clean and classic was the way to go for this staple, think again! You will be spoilt for chic choice with Zara’s lace paneled, leather peplum-ed offering, which is a clever spin-off from Bottega Veneta’s womenswear collection this fall. You can also find a simpler, more sophisticated version available at Adolfo Dominguez or a sexy, rock-and-roll looking dress at Mango with a studded shoulder, full sleeves and a high hem, so it maintains a demure yet daring balance.

Wear this new crop of noir dresses with staple accessories. A pair of pointy pumps are the perfect party accompaniment, but you can make the look cool and more casual with a pair of oh-so-current flat cowboy boots. You can even add in a pair of sheer socks, look to Dolce & Gabbana’s last few collections for inspiration (do not engage in this trend if you have larger ankles or short legs, this trend works strictly for the longlegged). On the glamour ground, sleek gold jewellery will take the ensemble up a notch but you can also give the LBD an eclectic twist with some embellished hairbands.

The key is to maintain balance. Black is a classic colour, so go for a silhouette which makes a statement. If the dress is dazzling with sequins and shine then go easy on the jewels and add in just a clutch. The best thing about a little black party dress is that you can wear it in so many different ways. So use your instinct and imagination and own the look no matter which style route you take.

ETRO

ZARA

NOIR COCKTAIL DRESS

Get a lowdown on the new seaso

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he jumpsuit has probably seen the biggest resurgence in recent times. Perhaps its due to its fuss-free, all-in-one feature that makes it so easy to wear and attracts women of all ages. The silhouettes range from strapless, harem pant versions to sleek work wear looking shirts that seamlessly turn into palazzo pants. Its an easy solution to hours of confusion over which toppers to wear with what below.

And for all those who shy away from the dress, this is the piece to purchase!

This season, the all-in-ones are more streamlined and tailored and move away from hippie garb. Manish Arora’s second collection for Paco Rabanne showcased a few of these one-piece wonders, mostly clean white versions with enough room for movement (which is also the trick of the season, body-con jumpsuits no longer make the cut, invest in one which skims over the body without suffocating yourself!). Both Zara and Mango have served up chic alternatives, mostly in neutrals of black and white but for the risk-takers there also seem to be a few options in scarlet red out there.

For such a bold silhouette though, its best to go with ready neutrals and the only deviation should be towards subtle tones like a midnight blue or a dark burgundy.

Team this with a pair of high-heels to add length to those legs and add in a oversized envelope clutch for good measure. This is not the sort of outfit you should have a bauble overload in so make sure you go for only one striking trinket—chose between wonder-woman like cuffs, chandelier earrings or a cool metal collar.

The look screams on-the-go glamour so keep it effortless and easy and stay away from uber-dressy extras such as crystal-encrusted platforms. Also the fit is vital so look out for a perfectly sitting crotch, not too long nor too short. Now, go headlong into this all-in-one ensemble.

PAUL SMITH

PAUL SMITH

OVERALLS

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women apparel

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hink slick, think Matrix, think gothic. Leather this season gets a serious overhaul, it is no longer rock and roll, distressed and lived-in.

Instead it is austere, dark and shiny, the kind that you would associate with futurism. Be it bombers, skirts or pants, they all come in a look, which is thoroughly modern. Trousers go anywhere from tailored to skin-tight. Whereas skirts are no longer reminiscent of the 80’s, they are cut away from the body in A-line shapes or in a full circular flare. Bombers are served with a hint of metropolis, with quilting details and sharpened shoulders. The addition to this repertoire is the boxy leather blouse, which is most flatteringly worn with a cinched waist—Yves Saint Laurent showcased this style sensationally with blouses in deep maroon and bottle green.

Wear these new leather essentials with just about anything—knitwear, embellishments, lace, chainmail, or silk. The look is more noir, so keep the studs and rivets at bay and go in for a more refined and minimal approach. The shiny, patent surface also makes a cool comeback, but watch out, as it isn’t as easy to wear! Don’t go in for a patent finish if the silhouette is body-con. Instead pick a piece that is tailored, such as a trench coat.

Keep the accessories to a minimum, but a chain-link bag and mesh booties will add a cool touch, as will a smattering of tribal trinkets in gunmetal and oxidized silver. This look is all about being a predator, so invoke the vixen in you and take this trend by storm.

SISLEY

LEATHER

n's trends and how to wear them

SISLEY

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GRAPHIC PATTERNS

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whole host of geometric motifs ruled the roost this time around. Right from painterly checks to pixilated lego patterns, there was an explosion of printed matter.

Miuccia Prada put a plethora of pant suits out there with dizzying patterns in a span of vivid colours. The new way to wear the pattern is to take the old-school route and match the patterns from top-to-toe. The clash-andwear mixing of prints is now best left to toddlers, you must make sure your ensembles are matched to order. Everything from chevron to houndstooth has made a comeback, so take a cue from the grandpa and wear these with a stately touch. Patterned pyjamas are a great way to start, they have been doing the rounds for a few seasons now, and their fluidity and ease make them a favourite, comfort-wise. Pair these with a patterned blazer or a slouchy cardigan and you are good to go.

All you need are some colourful accompaniments, be it a vividly-hued tote or some loafers. Keep jewellery to a minimum, the clothes are enough of a shout so let them do the talking. If you cant find matching separates then wear prints with a similar colour story and add in some paisleys and forals to break the monotony of linear shapes. Stick to some structure in the silhouette for a more of-the-moment look and refrain from baggy, billowing shapes as they take the pattern into a more tribal space.

All you need is a burst of confidence and some patterns to push the boundaries of your fall closet.

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women apparel

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omen, quite literally wear the pants these days! Autumn brings with it a sincerely tailored style which seems at first to be borrowed off the boys, but ever since menswear tailoring made a foray into womenswear in the ‘80s, we have never looked back. For all those working women out there, try on a pant suit for some added power. And no, they are not just the usual boring greys and pin-stripes that are doing the rounds, there is a pack of them which are printed and the other half come in rich jewel hues.

Tuxedo jackets, cropped slacks, blazers, wide-leg trousers are all components of these new suits. You can pick a wide lapel if you love to add in a few gem-encrusted brooches or you could go in for the classic silk lapels which make the perfect window for a charming choker.

And if thought this was strictly an on-duty attire, you are wrong. There are lovely brocade and velvet versions which would befit any dinner party scenario with style. These tailored outfits give power-dressing a new meaning. For office, team it with some patent brogues and a glossy leather messenger bag but as the sun goes down, swap the brogues for gold platforms and the messenger for a dainty little minaudiere. Think Priyanka Gandhi by day and Bianca Jagger by night.

If you still feel the look is too stuffy and severe, ditch the shirt underneath for a lace camisole, a silk blouse or a worn-out t-shirt. For a finishing touch throw on some glitzy jewels, anything from dangling earrings, to a string of semi-precious stones. You can hardly ever go wrong with a pant suit, but watch out for the right accessories because you want to look like a diva not a dike.

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PAUL SMITH

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PANT SUITS

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enim is the ultimate, round-the-year fabric. It goes from summer into winter and season after season it gets a refresh with a host of treatments. Printed and dyed denim has been doing the rounds for a few seasons now, from leopard prints to polka dots, all have made their mark in pastel, and florescent hues. This affinity for colourwashed denim bleeds into fall as well. However, the shades this time around are more decadent than its predecessors.

Think blood red, burgundy, forest green, teal, and rust.

And in terms of prints, dark winter florals are making a comeback along with houndstooth patterns.

Everyone from Calvin Klein to 7 for all Mankind have options galore. But most of these come in skin-tight tapered cuts, which aren’t necessarily flattering in bold patterns and bright colours for everybody. So look out for a variation in fit, a straight leg or a boot-cut look great even in colour, whereas anti-fit, boyfriend style jeans can look great in a punchy pattern’. However, if you are going in for a floral or decorative pattern make sure you get a skinny-fit, nothing too baggy as it can make you appear bigger.

Cropped pants are a big hit this season, so try wearing these jeans rolled up or cuffed with simple court shoes or ballerina flats. Pair them with a fedora or a baseball cap if you are feeling bold. A loosely knit sweater is a great topper to team or you can go with a basic black body and add in some jewellery and a scarf and let the jeans do the talking. So move on from the blue jean babies and embrace an artist’s palette of pigment and print.

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SISLEY

COLOURED JEANS

women apparel

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aroque influences run deep this season. With a ton of gold thread, decorative patterns and rich fabrics, this fall’s specialty lies in the luxurious textiles it has on offer. So anything from brocade blazers to drainpipes and dresses should be welcomed back into your wardrobe.

This trend is definitely not for the faint-hearted but this luxurious looking fashion is worth running the risk. Maintain a balance between the plain and the gilded and don only one item of brocade at a time while keeping the accompaniments spare and simple—team a plain white shirt with a jacquard blazer and jeans or wear a brocade skirt with a jewel-toned chiffon blouse. Feel free to amp up the decadence and throw in some gold, either with the accessories or with the jewels. But make sure you keep the rest of your look as easy as possible, so no stuffy silhouettes and printed paraphernalia.

Even the international runways had a decidedly Oriental feel to the plush Shanghai-inspired silks and the patterns of dragons, sparrows, and cherry blossoms were spotted aplenty.

India’s heritage brocades from Benares hit the bulls-eye even better. Treat yourself to one of JJ Valaya’s signature ‘Alika’ jackets, which come in sumptuous silk brocades or make a beeline for Zara’s tailored trousers in ornate jacquard.

Autumn brings with it a celebratory mood so why not leave behind the laidback monsoon garb, and let the glamorous mood of months to come sweep over your style.

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BROCADE/ JACQUARD

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ast year's snakeskin took over leopard spots to become the most popular animal print for fall and this spring, fish scales was the ‘it’ skin to flaunt. Fauna-inspired prints are such a mainstay for women, in both apparel and accessories, so each time the designers offer a number of new options of the forever-beloved prints. This season, however, the references were not all that literal. There was a fistful of feather, crocodile patterned leather, and unexpected motifs of horses on sweaters and other toppers. Roberto Cavalli, as usual conjured up a plethora of animal prints—mostly entailing the stripey-chic coat of a tiger.

So if you want to take a walk on the wild side, as usual, there is a large variety of prints to chose from. Cheetah sports are a classic but the currently coveted are the black and white versions inspired from the snow leopard. Also look out for some equestrian motifs of horses, bold white tiger prints, and imitation croc skins.

Wear only one animalier print at a time, leave the top-to-toe looks for the likes of Rihanna and Gaga. Combine classic animal prints with a dash of red to add that vintage polish. But if you have a print with a mind of its own then team it with neutral solids and let the print be the hero. Beetle and butterfly inspired jewellery is all over the place, but do not be tempted to team these with wild patterns. Instead go for a more romantic feathered dress and then adorn with these bold, bug baubles.

Here are a few of the animal must haves—a leopard print cardigan, a tigerprint skirt, a mock-croc textured t-shirt, and a feathered cocktail dress. With this list you can’t fail from looking fiercely chic.

ZARA

WILD INSTINCT

October 2012|CityScan|9

women apparel

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pulence and indulgence is the underlying mood for the season, so keep that innate Indian penchant for all things maximal. Everything from plush pearl embroideries to baroque gold adornments is out there for the taking.

This trend holds no bar, you can go top-to-toe in a spangling of sparkle, or stick to just one standout piece, but the bolder the better. Zara’s autumn collection has a few interesting styles on the stands, such as Balmain inspired pearl embellished blouse and skirt in pale beige. Every brand from Forever 21 to Forever New has stellar options available, since the trend is one that fits seamlessly into the Indian aesthetic. The easiest item to wear is the embellished blouse. You can wear it to in the evening with a pair of skinny slacks, or in the day with denim shorts or primp it up for a party with a leather skirt. The embellished skirt is equally versatile, but dresses and pants are harder to carry-off.

An overtly embellished dress can only be a nocturnal companion so its best to invest in separates so you have room to experiment.

Its very tricky to accessorize an already adorned ensemble, you can either go for contrasts and mix in a bit of grunge, like a pair of fringed booties or a scarf to tone down the dressy feel. Else you can take the trend to town with beaded bibs and bags with decorative motifs to match, just ensure you don’t head for an overkill—show some skin for relief and add in an easy accessory like a sling bag.

Play around with texture to add interest. Try a more unconventional approach by mixing in a print with embellishments, or some knitwear.

Even if you team it with a solid colour, the mix of fabrics like corduroy, denim and tweed will add interest.

Recession or not, this trend will make you look like a million bucks.

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ZARA

es, this is a universal favourite amongst the girls, however fashion has evaded this colour for a long while now.

Finally, pink is back in the limelight and the great part it is neither sweet nor overtly feminine. So even if you are not the frou-frou, candy-loving girl you can dive into a pool of pink without feeling like a fish out of water. From a soft rose to a rich cerise, all these hues have been rendered in shapes which are minimal and tailored. There aren’t a host of frills and ruffles to greet you, instead the focus lies on the colour itself.

So leave the idea of colour-blocking behind, and wear this shade all by itself. As seen on the catwalk of Dior, there were blush pink circular skirts, and jackets and even suede sandals in the same tone. For the braver lot, there is an acid flamingo tone that Dior showed on a delectable dress with a silk-bodice and a full, tulle skirt, which looked as if it had descended from a futuristic fairyland.

Pick a tone according to your skin-type, a fair, pale skin tone can carry off bright shades, such as shocking pink, but if you have a more peachy skin-shade then go in for cloudy pastels such as lavender, lilac and coral. For the duskier lot, deep berry tones such as raspberry and carmine add a lovely glow.

Nude and brown extras set-off this hue brilliantly, and icy silver and pearl baubles make a perfect match. Just make sure you keep it looking modern and stay away from the too-girl vibe, which is so often associated with this saccharine shade. But you cant deny that pink is the colour of passion, so wear it with aplomb and authority. u

By Carol Singh

PINK

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CUE

EMBELLISHMENTS

October 2012|CityScan|11

Photo Courtesy: lakme fashion week

women iconic

Gauri & Nainika

12|CityScan|october 2012

women iconic

sister pair styling Delhi

Delhi-based designers, Gauri and Nainika Karan create collections which are chic and very European, a style Delhiites totally identify with. As the creative sisters complete a decade in the fashion industry, CityScan ropes them for an exclusive chat for its inaugural issue.

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n a Friday afternoon, we drive down to meet the designer sibling duo Gauri and Nainika Karan, at their studio in Saidulajab near Saket. A white pebbled entrance leads us to their designer haven. We are greeted by the charming Gauri, as she walks in, dressed casually in a pair of jeans and a flowery top.

Nainika walks in wearing a summery kurta and cool cotton pants, her hair tucked tightly behind. The designer sisters are young, vibrant, sans any starry airs, and this reflects in their collection. We settle on the cane chairs in the studio and our conversation inevitably begins about their collection of cocktail dresses, gowns and wedding gowns we are surrounded with.

October 2012|CityScan|13

women iconic Tell us about your label ‘Gauri & Nainika’.

We studied fashion designing at NIFT, Delhi and started our career in 2002. There weren’t too many Indian designers doing western wear at that time, and many people shopped abroad for western wear.

We could think of doing only western wear because we grew up in a culture surrounded by old Hollywood films of the ‘50's and Broadway. Our design sensibility is essentially western.

We started off designing for a Raymond sub brand, and retailed from Santushti Complex. Being designated with the task of creating a line for the brand, we could only use polyester, the outcome of which was not at all satisfying. The brand closed down eventually and fashion weeks were just beginning to make news at that point in Delhi. We realised Indian designer prêt wear can’t be affordable. Debuting with the Fashion Week in Delhi in 2004, our collections in pure fabrics like satin and silk, gained recognition. It increased the cost of the garment but the quality improved.

Photo Courtesy: yogen shah

What are your style sensibilities?

Our collections are very European. They are inspired

by Audrey Hepburn movies of the 50s. Our clothes are classy and timeless – buzzing with nostalgia and an old world feel, glamorous, stylish, very feminine and romantic.

The perception about dresses is changing, and the trend is catching on with people. Earlier, girls would wear a skirt and top to a party, now they wear dresses. Cocktail dresses can also be worn to sangeet and cocktails; you need not necessarily wear traditional Indian wear. A little known secret about dresses is that they make you look two sizes thinner, and of course make you feel glamorous.

Our dresses and gowns can be worn for formal occasions like dinners, parties and on the red carpet. At present, the 1950s style Christian Dior gowns and voluminous Cinderella gowns are very popular.

We also do wedding gowns, although there is a very niche market for it in India.

Where is the average Delhiites style sensibility going?

Delhiites follow trends and dress-up but they are stereotypical in their look – they don’t want to experiment. All girls have blow dried hair and hair highlights at page 3 parties, for instance.

Aishwarya Rai in black & white frill-wrap dress at a Longines event

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How would you differentiate the Mumbai fashion scene from the Delhi fashion scene?

Both the cities are similar in their

Venus colour block gown from the Kandinsky inspired collection

women iconic

Photo Courtesy: yogen shah

“Bipasha Basu, Deepika Padukone and Aishwarya Rai Bachchan have worn our gowns and love them.

We are also designing for Priyanka Chopra and Katrina Kaif.�

Priyanka Chopra in SIBIL one shoulder dress at L'oreal Paris Femina awards

Model in Santorini wrap print resort gown

Deepika Padukone in a full sleeve backless gown with tiered and textured trail at The Screen Awards

October 2012|CityScan|15

women iconic dressing sensibilities but Mumbai people are more bindaas and outgoing. They would step out in shorts and chappals. Their style is edgy and cool.

What are the style essentials in your wardrobe?

Gauri: I usually remain in casuals.

For evenings, I wear long dresses and gowns.

Nainika: I need to wear comfortable clothes. Since I work in the

workshop with the craftsmen during the day, I wear easy casuals. I like the retro look for evenings.

As a twosome, who does what? How do the duo instincts merge into one creation?

Gauri remarks that Nainika is very good at sketching. “Sometimes, I wonder about the detailing and how a dress would come through, but Nainika puts it together somehow.”

Nainika laughs and says that since she and Gauri grew up together influenced by the same forms of music, 50's Hollywood movies, their style sensibilities are the same. “We mostly agree upon the designs, and there are hardly any conflicts of opinion. We always work together on the collections.”

Which fabrics do you work with?

We work with silk, satin, taffeta, lace, net et al.

How is your collection priced?

Our cocktail dresses start at Rs 15,000 and go up to Rs 35,000. Our gowns start at Rs 35,000 and go up to Rs 1.5 lakh.

Gauri says sometimes people don’t want to pay so much for a cotton dress because they feel its cotton, but the quality escalates the cost. We do animal prints as well; somehow Indian women are not so much into animal prints.

As young designers, which Indian and international designers do you look up to?

We like Rohit Bal and Sabyasachi in Indian contemporary designers, and Christian Dior, Chanel and YSL from abroad.

Your best creations you would look back upon?

Our pencil drape dresses sold like crazy.

Also, our silk taffeta wraps were really popular till about eight years ago. Colour block gowns were another sold-out. It was a big moment for us when Aishwarya Rai Bachchan wore our black and white dress to

Woolen boatneck JO dress

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Oblique horse hair collar dress

“We mostly agree upon the designs, and there are hardly any conflicts of opinion. We always work together on the collections.”

women iconic

“Red, purple, plum and other deep colours are ‘in’ this season .”

the race games. The backless green gown that Deepika Padukone wore to the Filmfare Awards was appreciated by all.

Bollywood actresses wear your gowns all the time. Tell us about your Bollywood clientele.

Bipasha Basu, Deepika Padukone and Aishwarya Rai Bachchan have worn our gowns and loved them. We are also designing for Priyanka Chopra and Katrina Kaif. We met Lara Dutta recently and she appreciated our creations by showing an interest in wearing them. It’s all word of mouth...we get calls and get introduced to the celebrities. Once the actresses like our designs, they put us on to their stylists and we coordinate with them. We also give out our collections to the TV anchors.

Woolen off shoulder side cowl dress with overlapping hem

How would you reconcile emphasis on beauty and grandeur in a world where there is so much poverty especially in Delhi where inclusive growth is still elusive?

Gauri: It’s sad that some have so much and some so little. There is so much starvation but we can’t restrain our lifestyle or stop socialising.

Nainika: The biggest contribution we can make to society is to educate children to eradicate poverty.

What are the trends and colours for Autumn /Winter 2012?

We are working on woollen dresses for Autumn/Winter, and believe that they would be really popular. Red, purple, plum and other deep colours are ‘in’ this season .

Where are your boutiques located?

We have boutiques in India and the Middle East. Our dresses are very popular in India, and our gowns are hugely popular in the Middle East. Next on the agenda is opening boutiques in China and Russia too.

Any plans of diversifying into different areas?

We are soon launching our home furnishings range at our Delhi boutique. It will include everything from cushion covers to cutlery. At present, the range will be curated by us. But yes, we would like to design each piece ourselves in the future.

What are your other interests?

We like eating-out and travelling.

Your mom is a well-known cook – do either of you share her passion?

We like to cook when we have the time.

Since we have a hell of a cook, our mom, at home most of the time, we don’t feel the need to cook.

You two share a passion for music and also play the piano.

We grew up on opera and Broadway. Music was a part of our growing up. We enjoy singing and playing the piano (both the sisters are professional pionists).

Nude colour diagonal frill boat neck floret with peplum

Nainika is married, do we hear wedding bells for Gauri sometime soon?

“Nainika married her childhood sweetheart Amit Vadehra. She is happily married, and I am happily single,” says Gauri smiling.

What is the duo working on currently?

We are working on our collection for the upcoming Fashion Week in October. u

By Manisha Almadi Midha

October 2012|CityScan|17

women accessories

All that shines may not be gold but definitely is

plated!

gold

Experiment a new look with gold plated jewellery by Silverline. The collection embodies a range of necklaces, earrings, bracelets, bangles and rings varying from simple ethnic jewellery to magnanimous statement pieces.

Each piece spells rich heritage and skilled craftsmanship. Contemporary and classic neckpieces, casual and semi-precious stone studded bracelets, ear rings and the leaf shaped golden bracelet is best to team up with a day look. Add these to your collection of jewellery if you prefer a flamboyant and atypical look this season.

Price: From Rs. 3,000. Where: The Silver Line, Select CITYWALK and Khan Market, New Delhi

Dior

opulence gets redefined with sapphire crystals Timepiece with an

ethnic bling

Here is a bridal watch with traditional Indian jewelled jadau work and varied beautiful stones and pearls. The amalgamation of dull gold adds luster to this mesmerising piece of watch which makes it no less than a spectacular art of jewellery. This statement watch complements every variation of Indian fabric from beautiful bandhini to elegant chikankari. The Tarun Tahiliani timepiece is made of IP Champagne plating with sandblasted finish and the dial comprises of Mother of Pearl. This wristwatch is perfect for all those contemporary brides who are looking for a timeless chic look. The designer has certainly taken care of the ethnicity while maintaining the elegance. Now what else can our bride can ask for?

Price: Rs. 17995. Where: The Time Factory, 61, Priya Cinema Bldg, Community Centre, Basant Lok, Vasant Vihar, New Delhi

18|CityScan|october 2012

Crafted out of sapphire crystals which are almost as hard as diamonds, here comes the keystone in the time-keepers aesthetics, a genuinely ornamental feature. Since 2005, Dior Christal has been cutting and encrusting sapphire crystal by hand into bezels and straps in a marquetry fashion to create a theatre of lights which is a superb example of re-enchanting watch making. This year, Dior Christal watch has reinvented itself with an antireflective sapphire crystal glass on the case.

Practically no expression could describe the grandeur of the watch but we’ve tried enough!

Price: Rs 5,25,000. Where: Dior, DLF Emporio, Vasant Kunj, New Delhi / Johnson’s Watch Co, C – 16, Connaught Place, New Delhi.

October 2012|CityScan|19

women accessories

the

foot story

This fresh collection of footwear is here for those who adore shoes as well as their feet…

Moccasin the high heeled way Moccasins have resurged as the popular form of show wear for both men and women. This high heeled pump from OVS is what we call getting ‘high’ in fashion. Moccasins won’t tire your feet and thus will make it an ideal wear for all. Being a versatile kind of footwear you needn’t worry about pairing it with your clothes. Moccasins have definitely made their way into the mainstream fashion from just being the footwear of hunters, traders and European settlers.

Customise your ballerinas with collection ‘Massif’ Ladies – you can now customise your ballerinas with the Massif collection, an innovation by Madhuri Mamgain. Each one these ballerinas, personally designed by the brand founder Madhuri, has a unique story to tell.

For instance, there is a pair named which shows Indian women and their heritage, Neon, which features the craziest of colours for this season, and Cat, which depicts cat as a symbol of grace. If sun signs interest you, you can even get zodiac sign based prints painted on your belly.

Since it’s all about art and expression, the buyer can soar high in imagination and create a personal expression to her foot, for here it seems the sky is the limit!

Price: From Rs. 1,250.

Where: Madhuri Mamgain, 5M, Jungi House, Shahpur Jat, New Delhi

Price: Rs 2,799.

Where: OVS, Ambience Mall, Vasant Kunj, New Delhi.

Da Milano brings

Rosso Brunello to the Capital

Da Milano, the hub of exquisite Italian leather accessories brings the international high end footwear brand Rosso Brunello to India for all the fashionistas who aspire for style with utmost comfort. Playfulness and attitude lurk in every corner as this range of footwear comes in a kaleidoscopic range of colours. There are funky pairs of flip flops, chic ballerinas and sexy towering heels to provide you just the glamour that you need for this season.

Price: From Rs. 2,499.

Where: Da Milano, Ambience Mall, Vasant Kunj, New Delhi and select stores across Delhi/NCR.

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A shoe with no lieu

Some things cannot be substituted. Same applies to this Vanilla Moon pair of moccasin which is here to charm you and is going to put an end to all your qualms in fashion. Interesting hues set with fascinating design is going to paint your own fashion story. The brand aims at the sophisticated urban lady who understands quality.

Price: Rs 3990. Where: Vanilla Moon, DLF Emporio, Vasant Kunj, New Delhi

October 2012|CityScan|21

women accessories

an affair with

bags

Bags to women are what watches are to men. With the latest range of bags we are trying to make sure that your possessions are carried elegantly.

Bags catch the

diamond fever!

Now we all know why diamonds and crystals have always been women's favourite. No matter what, bling of crystals and diamonds have always put a smile on their faces. Now Ash Amaira has come up with its all new bling collection which will make all the women glee in shine. This scintillating bag is 100% handcrafted using silk satin and Austrian crystals. The bag is designed by Divya Bhatia who has taken care of all those women who never let their fashion quotient drop.

Price: Rs: 19,500. Where: Ash Amaira, N-2 Greater Kailash I, New Delhi

Bagging the

anaconda style

Style has got different faces and now it has come in the visage of an anaconda. Get friendly with this Gucci anaconda leather crafted bag which is dangerously classier. The precious skins are the result of traditional manual techniques, put into practice by Gucci’s master artisans to further enhance the plush textures. The new soft stirrup bag is a symbol of Gucci’s impeccable and timeless craftsmanship.

Price: On request. Where: Gucci, DLF Emporio, Vasant Kunj, New Delhi / The Oberoi, New Delhi

Petite now means ‘big’ Style gets a bloom boom!

Fashion seems to be at its full bloom with this Betsey Johnson pretty girl flower tote. Feminine rosettes adorn this spacious bag while a metallic chain adds a classic touch. Apart from the beauty of this bag, the other highlights of this flowery bag are the magnetic snap closure, one zip and two cell phone interior pockets. This is apparently an iconic bag by Betsey Johnson which has made the brand popular around the globe and is a haute-couture statement in fashion!

Price: Rs 6,999. Where: Steve Madden, Select CITYWALK, Saket, New Delhi 22|CityScan|october 2012

Now petite no longer means small. Not that we haven't challenged Thesaurus or tried to invert the established meanings, but when it comes to fashion even a small accessory does wonders, like this mini cow leather crafted clutch bag which is the new prettiest and petite thing in the town by Zara. Made out of golden studs, this little bag has got the elements of chic and style. Club this bag with the most beautiful dress in your wardrobe. Zara was once mentioned as a 'Spanish success story’ by CNN. We don’t know about Spain but all we can guarantee is that it can definitely add to your fashion success story!

Price: Rs 4,790.

Where: Zara, Select Citywalk, Saket/DLF Promenade, Vasant Kunj and other Zara stores across Delhi/ NCR

women accessories

Collar it up

The jacquard bib by Zara is crafted in diamante and sequins beautifully to complete your look which was curtailed since long due to scarcity of time. Now you just have to set this bib around your neck and you are all equipped to rock.

Zara has always catered to the myriad needs of its consumers and once again it is here to take care of the lot who doesn’t have time to get dressed up but still want to look their best.

Could fashion get any more convenient?

Price: Rs: 2,390.

Where: Zara exclusive outlets across Delhi/ NCR

Peafowl on your ears!

Who would have ever thought of the richness of Indian integrity meeting in a pair of jewellery.

Designer Isha Katoria with her creativity has come up with a royal piece of earrings, crafted out of pure silver. The earring is embedded with kundan on top, followed by a hand painted peacock encased in glass at the centre.

This contemporary earring oozes out ethnicity which will make it a perfect wear for those who want to remain rooted with the culture and also want to quench their thirst for style at the same time.

Price: Rs 6,060. Where: Rio Grande, M-39, Greater Kailash I, New Delhi.

Cheat the heat

Scarf spree by Esprit

The cotton block printed scarves are from the new Fall/Holiday collection by Esprit. The collection is reminiscent of the big city woman and her daily life, shopping on the 5th avenue or relaxing at a downtown Parisian cafĂŠ. Just try different styles with these scarves for a new look every day. Scarves have been a part of women accessory since millennia. Wear it as a head covering or shawl or simply wrap it around your neck. These scarves are definitely going to look ultra glamorous!

Price: Rs: 1,499 onwards. Where: Esprit stores across Delhi/NCR and at selected outlets of Lifestyle, Shoppers Stop and Westside.

coloured-blocked style

Strategic colour blocking highlights the gentle curvatures of modified, slightly rounded, cat-eye Fendi frames. This eyewear embodies the timeless and iconic style. These beautiful frame shapes are skillfully crafted from both custom zyl and polished metal. Available in the hues of havana and coral, havana and yellow, havana and green, havana and grey, and black and Havana, get ready to fight the sun and the fashion blues!

Price: Rs 21,000. Where: Fendi, DLF Emporio, Vasant Kunj, New Delhi October 2012|CityScan|23

women accessories

Eye shadow with an

antioxidant!

Experience more than beautiful eye shadow with the new Clinique Lid Smoothie Antioxidant 8-Hour eye colour. Infused with nourishing ingredients, these long-wearing cream shadows deliver rich, crease-resistant colour that stays on upto eight hours.

Using a unique cooling applicator, the skin care infused formula helps rejuvenate the delicate eye area while revolutionizing the application process. The versatile, lightweight formula blends effortlessly across the lid leaving a soft, powdery finish with a hint of shimmer. Lid Smoothie is great for layering and pairs beautifully with powder shadows for a velvety colour that lasts long. The innovative cream-to-powder formula smoothes eyelids with key, good-for-skin ingredients while the metallised applicator keeps its cool delivering a refreshing feel with each use.Now that perfect look for your eyes is just a squeeze away!

Price: Rs 1,500. Where: Clinique, Select CITYWALK, Saket/ Ambience Mall, Gurgaon.

Just Arrived

Colours For You

Colour yourself up with this novel range of make-up!

Paint your nails

with ease

Lancôme Paris reveals its new range in nail paints, Vernis in Love, which has reinvented nail paint application, making it simpler, faster and more stupefying. Now the application of nail paint is as easy as removing it. There is no need to turn towards the parlour every time you strike with the idea of getting your nails painted. It’s just the patented brush that has brought this revolution. The grooved stem allows nail paint to flow directly to the centre of the brush. An elongated and rounded base with extremely supple flat bristles allows the nail contour to be perfectly followed and a uniform coat of varnish to be applied in just a single stroke. 10 fingers, 10 strokes! The fluid texture of ‘Vernis in Love’ creates a smooth, streak-free, and flawless film of colour. This range of nail paint comes in 16 dazzling shades. Empowered with micro-mirrors which reflect light from every angle to create dazzling shine, every girl will shine with colour now!

Price: Rs 800. Where: Lancôme, Select CITYWALK, Saket/DLF Promenade, Vasant Kunj/Ambience Mall, Gurgaon and other exclusive stores across Delhi/NCR.

M.A.C’s

new celestial effect

Now experience the colours of the entire universal orbits with the M.A.C’s new range called 'Heavenly Creature'. The stunning extraterrestrial effects can now be seen on your face with its colours blending with your skin effortlessly. The warm tones are perfect for summers. The shimmer of the lip colour will not make your lips dry. This range of M.A.C comes in five pretty shades, creamy peach, sheer yellow pink with pearl, mid-tone peachy pink, beiged pink and red pink. Be a universal beauty with these irresistible lip shades and shine all day long with this revolutionary range of makeup.

Price: Rs 990. Where: M.A.C., Select CITYWALK, Saket/ Ambience Mall, Vasant Kunj and other exclusive outlets across Delhi/NCR. 24|CityScan|october 2012

October 2012|CityScan|25

men trends

New Season style

Everything you need to know this autumn on how to dress your best

1

M

ilitarian references have run wild this season, so it is only natural that the colour of choice is none other than khaki. Used in a myriad ways from utilitarian parkas and pea coats as seen at Burberry Prorsum to sleek twopiece suits shown at Dior Homme, this hue is not just meant for the battlefield.

In its deeper form it can pull off a sophisticated appeal with some crisply cut separates like stovepipe pants, and supple blazers.

A pair of olive pants or jeans should be on the top of your to-get list. Make sure they don’t look like something bought off an army surplus shop, so steer clear off multi-pocketed combat trousers and anything made in a cotton drill fabric. Instead look for slimfit trousers that you can pair with a double-breasted cardigan or denim shirt by day and a blazer for the evening. And if you want to retain the rugged look of a major, add on a baseball cap and a pair of chunky, hiking boots. But make sure you keep the silhouette of the clothes sharp and modern.

The other must-have is a Parka or a Puffa jacket. These should ideally look as authentic as an officer’s—best seen in a waterresistant material, with a hoodie and cool brass buttons. An all-purpose man-bag is a great extra as it adds a touch of utility to the look. Don’t go for anything too dandy, a tanned leather messenger bag or a canvas carryall with buckles are just the things.

Lastly, a slim fit shirt in a dark shade of spinach is all you need to add to those black suits to take them from boring to brilliant.

Sling on a matching silk tie and a gunmetal or titanium tie-bar and the look couldn’t be more dapper and current.

Go on and chart your territory, this colour has the promise of a victorious outcome.

A pair of olive pants or jeans should be on the top of your to-get list.

26|CityScan|october 2012

ETRO

OLIVE

men trends

You can choose from a variety of prints, a more graphic kind are seen in houndstooth and plaid whereas cursive paisleys, and other arabesque patterns are offered aplenty.

2

S

o this sea of discreet dark jeans and solid shirts is beginning to look bland.

Dial it up this season with a punch of print. From Hawaiin shirts, once advocated

by Mr Presley himself, to retro-paisley prints are all back to renew their claims on the man planet. For Indian men, paisleys, florals, Mughal motifs and other decorative patterns are not alien elements as they are often sported in ethnic wear. However, its time to embrace these fiesty patterns and incorporate them in our everyday wardrobe. You can choose from a variety of prints, a more graphic kind are seen in houndstooth and plaid whereas cursive paisleys, and other arabesque patterns are offered aplenty.

Invest in either the printed shirt or the patterned trouser, or both if you are feeling bold. Baroque Gianni Versaceinspired prints are all the rage, however if the vivid colours and bold designs are too loud for you, opt for a subtle palette as seen at Etro with its earthy, Africa-inspired patterns. Wear this out-there shirt with a pair of lived-in jeans or chino shorts, and for a formal twist team it with a pair of tailored slacks and a trench.

The top-class printed trousers are the ones in a range of damask prints as displayed by Canali or the ikat printed pants shown by Burberry Prorsum. Make sure the pants have a slim, tapered cut because a baggy shape will make the look appear too retro. Put on a knitted turtleneck and a blazer for smart casuals and team them with a simple white t-shirt for off-duty gear. Suede loafers are the ultimate accessory for this look, they have a relaxed yet rich quality to them. Stay away from gimmicky extras like scarves, fancy belts, or hats with this trend, as the printed separates make enough of a statement already.

The beauty of a print is that you can hit it as hard as you like, keep the print proportionate to your adventure quotient on the day. Rein it in on the day you want sobriety and the bolder you feel the further you go.

CANALI

ETRO

ETRO

PAUL SMITH

PRINTS

October 2012|CityScan|27

men trends

3

I

n the eighties we believe the best suits were the ones that emphasized the masculine form – broad shoulders, a nipped-in waist, and a slim leg. This is not to say, a skinny silhouette, but one that is well-defined and sleek. It is not the overall cut of the suit that really changes from time to time. It in fact are the details that really build upon this all-important attire.

If you are someone who carries off a little more with flair then go with a version that has peaked lapels, a larger breast pocket that can hold not just a square but a handkerchief. Tom Ford does these details best. But if you are someone who likes more restraint then go with regular notched lapels or the shawl collar with an average breast pocket that will hold just the pocket square, think Don Draper from Mad Men. However, the most-coveted style this season has to be the doublebreasted coat. Not the vintage version, which came with a boxy cut, the new nifty offerings give your physique a trim, V-shaped silhouette.

The most flattering of these is the ‘Kent’ cut which was popularized

by Prince George, the Duke of Kent.

In this cut, the lapel extends all the way to the buttons giving the illusion of length, and a slimmer waist.

And for those semi-casual Fridays, Giorgio Armani has just the answer with his relaxed sport-coat inspired shapes wherein the shoulder of the jacket is cut as softly as a cardigan and teamed with roomy, pleated pants—utterly chic and comfortable.

Lace-up shoes are a must with this look as slip-ons just hamper the suavity of a suit. A bunch of patterned, textured or striped ties, a tie-bar or two, a rich silk pocket square and you are good to go. If you must wear a belt, ensure it’s a skinny and unobtrusive style, as you don’t want it to cut you off at the waist.

Suit yourselves this season and see the success soar.

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canali

The mostcoveted style this season has to be the doublebreasted coat with a V-shaped silhouette.

canali

SUITS

men trends

The real revelation here is how the utilitarian sportswear was paired unexpectedly with sophisticated separates.

T

raditionally sportswear is associated with leisure and a casual approach to dressing. But this year there is a novel take on it with luxurious-looking sportswear whose appeal doesn’t limit itself just to the gymnasium. Various varsity jackets turned up along with a bunch of bombers with oversized collars. Even zippered pullovers, seen at Z Zegna, made a comeback with the always- treasured hoodies, shown at Calvin Klein, which had an astronaut-like quality to them due to the patent leather paneling. Paul Smith too displayed a string of looks with neon-detailing and wind-cheating fabric.

The real revelation here is how the utilitarian sportswear was paired unexpectedly with sophisticated separates. A wind-sheeter zipper worn with some inky corduroy trousers and a crisp shirt underneath with a tie, or the humble hoodie teamed with flat-front slacks and a pinstriped blazer.

Or even drawstring pants combined with a denim shirt and a grandpa, cable-knit cardigan! The possibilities are endless, the key is to keep a balance of contrasts—a healthy mix of formal and functional.

Some additions make all the difference, so no harm bringing on those baseball caps, golf berets, driving gloves, for these can add just the flourish you need. But assess your look and the occasion and use them only if they add some swagger, refrain from piling these on because they can end up making the look costume-y. However, a pair of suede skate-boarder high-tops or some surfer canvas slip-ons (Van’s does great versions) can be perfect for any ground. Bags are debatable, as most men find these cumbersome, but sometimes these carryalls really add up.

Invest in a quilted leather backpack, but if you are a hippie at heart then go for the ikat-printed cloth options available at Burberry Prorsum and Zara.

The Olympics might be over, but there’s no reason why you shouldn’t look like a gold-medalist, so go on and clench these sporty covetables. u

By Carol Singh

paul smith

paul smith

paul smith

paul smith

SPORTSWEAR

October 2012|CityScan|29

men accessories

Stylishly timed The brighter the better says

Salvatore Ferragamo!

Titanium brushed with black treatment and scratch-resistant ceramic top ring is the highlight for this Salvatore Ferragamo time piece which definitely will grab our eye balls. The dial is black and made with horizontal texture and also comprises of luminescent indexes and hands. This scratch resistant, sapphire and crystal studded watch refuses to go unnoticed!

Chic collaborates with craftsmanship

Burberry is renowned for its beautiful craft with real functionality.

This impactful watch piece by Burberry must have given you lot of reasons to sigh already.

The aesthetic appeal and exquisite craftsmanship has subsumed in a rounded octagonal shape dial with distinctive bolts which are inspired by modern British design and the iconic Burberry trench coat! The multi-faceted case constructed with innovative domed case reflects light through a blend of the brushed and polished steel surface. The black alligator leather strap brings out the luxuriance of the watch. Art has collaborated with modern technique to make it one of the most coveted timepiece today!

Price: Rs 1,14,990. Where: Burberry, DLF Emporio, Vasant Kunj, New Delhi and Helios stores across Delhi/NCR

Price: Rs 1,96000. Where: Salvatore Ferragamo, DLF Emporio, Vasant Kunj, New Delhi

Myriad personalities,

Get reminiscent with Armani!

Emporio Armani brings back the casual sophistication of the 70’s and 80’s with their ‘Retro’ collection of timepieces.

Inspired by the heritage of the Emporio Armani Orologi with a modern makeover, this watch will captivate you with its aesthetic appeal and exquisite craftsmanship. The watch is characterised by a polished gold-tone stainless steel case with a champagne dial. The dial comes with a beveled finish which provides an ultra-modern look to the watch. Now past would be cherished in a swankier way!

Price: Rs 22,495 onwards. Where: Lifestyle, Helios and Shopper’s Stop across Delhi/NCR. 30|CityScan|october 2012

one watch!

Subtly capturing macho elements, Donna Karan translates the elements of horology into sophisticated, urbane designs for the modern man who believes in effortless style. This time piece by DKNY features a croc embossed black leather strap, stainless steel case and bezel framing the black dial which features a date window, three sub dials and three hand chronograph movements. Complete your ensemble with this timeless timepiece which is especially designed for the 24-hour guy who jumps out of sleep and into life. It can be worn at work, play, night and weekends. Sure macho gets re-defined with this magnificent watch!

Price: Rs 11,995. Where: DKNY, DLF Emporio, Vasant Kunj/DLF Place, Saket, New Delhi

October 2012|CityScan|31

men accessories

Loaf around with loafers

Canali is here breaking all the doctrines and taking its cue from London’s eclecticism, reinterpreting the different style of elegance expressed by the dandy and new romantic movements from the contemporary, ironic point of view. Now if the inspiration is so classy we can expect its product to be much classier. English style permeates through these Canali loafers which are artistically designed with tassels on the top. Now let your feet walk the English way.

A multi-faceted carrier

Price: Rs 35,000 onwards.

Where: Canali, DLF Emporio, Vasant Kunj, New Delhi/The Oberoi, Gurgaon.

Zara presents to you a bag which has got no end to utility. This multipocketed bag is what every man would love to have. The bag cum carrier comes with a handle and a strap which gives you an option of carrying it whichever way you want to. You don’t have to worry about pairing it with your clad as it goes with every attire. Thus we can say that it is definitely a bag with so much of utility both in comfort and style.

Price: Rs 3,790. Where: Zara stores across Delhi/NCR

A feast for your feet from Vans

Get bag-licious

Lecoanet Hemant redefines fashion once again with its new multi-purpose bag which is handy and comfortable. Carry this bag either with formals or on the party that your friend is going to host, this bag is just going to be the perfect style statement. This brand is infused with energy and life since 1984 and has always presented us with what is latest in fashion.

Price: Rs 85,00. Where: Lecoanet Hemant, Claridges Hotel, Surajkund, Faridabad 32|CityScan|october 2012

It is believed that men are never at rest and are always at the go. For such continuous run and struggle you need to have perfect pair of shoes which make you feel comfortable all day long. The southern Californian action sports brand, Vans has come up with the new range of canvas shoes which will leave you carefree when it comes to your feet.

Vans stands for authenticity, creativity, individuality and self expression and we can see the amalgamation of it all in these pair of shoes. The design is simple yet effective with sturdy canvas uppers and signature waffle rubber soles. Always be on the run with these shoes on with no worries whatsoever!

Price: Rs 2,499.

Where: Vans, Ambience Mall, Vasant Kunj, New Delhi.

October 2012|CityScan|33

Continued focus on creative excellence, functional superiority, technical innovation, bestin-class quality and outstanding customer service DLF Emporio has found a new attractive guest this season in the form of Tumi. One of the leading international brand of luxury travel, business and lifestyle accessories, this is the third Tumi store in India after having found a prolific space at the Palladium, Mumbai and UB City, Bengaluru. This brand, sold and marketed in around 200 stores from New York to Paris to London and Tokyo, in addition to the world’s top department and speciality stores in more than 65 countries, has become the heritage of design excellence. Tumi’s success over the past three decades can be traced to its continual focus on its founding principles of creative excellence, functional superiority, technical innovation, best-in-class quality and outstanding customer service. Following the same standards, this new comer store in Delhi offers a complete assortment of Tumi’s travel, business and day bags, a variety including the alpha collection, Arrivé, Tegra-Lite, Dror for Tumi, Vapor, Beacon Hill and Women’s. To complete the lifestyle assortment, small accessories and eyewear will also be available.

Further, to celebrate this proud addition in Tumi’s family of stores, the brand is delighted to introduce a limited edition Taj Mahal luggage tag, exclusive to the India market. Keeping in mind this age-old structure that is most representative of

our country, Tumi decided to appreciate it in their own unique manner.

Tumi has recently developed a new interior philosophy which believes in a merger of classic and modern while paying due attention to design and quality. Inspired by the 1920’s and 1930’s, an era of glamorous travel, the 660 sq. feet store therefore rightly embodies this belief and wishes to create a warm, inviting and luxurious environment in a modest fashion.

Since its founding in 1975, Tumi’s commitment to design excellence, functional superiority and technical innovation has made it the brand of choice for the world’s most discerning and demanding travellers. During the 1980’s, the popularity of Tumi shot manifold with it’s innovative introduction of soft, ultra functional, black-on-black nylon travel bags. As the product innovators continued to fetch breakthrough merchandise throughout the 1990’s, the fan fare only increased. At present, Tumi holds more than 25 patents for its design.

The finest factor of the brand is that it continues to evolve its approach towards design and creativity. This relentless progress with a loyalty to preserving the brand’s heritage while moving forward with a modern, creative approach is what makes Tumi most sought-after. Tumi precisely is the ultimate travel companion, leading one through the ever-changing demands of day-today life with quality, function and a renewed sense of-modern fashion.

And now that it is in the capital, those hard to please shoppers have no reasons to complain! u Where: TUMI, Shop No 222-A, 1st Floor, DLF Emporio, Vasant Kunj, New Delhi, 011-40582318

34|CityScan|october 2012

October 2012|CityScan|35

him & her When Kate Middleton transformed into a global fashion icon and every garment she donned became a trend to follow, she brought back a wave of interest in the British way of dressing – conservative yet fashionable and trendy! In fact not only Britons but women around the world watched the Duchess of Cambridge choose her wardrobe and started scouring stores she patronized. Among the media hype that Middleton’s clothes created, her Burberry trench-coat was so highly celebrated that it made to the pages of every style glossy! Trench-coats started disappearing off the racks in Burberry stores across England and that fashion statement continues to hold court. The Trench is indeed a piece of garment that has stood the vagaries of time. It is a fashion classic that every stylist or designer worth his talent will endorse.

B

Photos Courtesy: burberry

urberry’s 156 years long history has made the brand one of the most admired as well as one of the most copied luxury products across the world. The understated sophistication that has marked the Burberry checks has made it a preferred choice for those that like the

36|CityScan|october 2012

The Iconic

Tre

him & her no-fuss simplistic edge the brand offers. In fact, the trench is synonymous with the brand in such an intrinsic way that no other brand apart from Aquascutum lays claim to producing the original trench.

First appearance

caught over the rest of Europe and even America, especially amongst officers serving in the army. Even after they left the services, most retained their trenches that were a hit with both men and women. Having evolved in many ways, the trench retains some original flavours, mostly available in colours such as beige and black among other features.

Trenches made their first appearance around the time of World War I and became a trend starting out as a functional piece of clothing during the monsoons around the time of World War II. It was the British serving officers that started using trenches as an optional garment and soon the trend

ench

And now, it has evolved as a fashion garment you can’t really go wrong with. So popular has been the Burberry trench movement that Burberry’s brand head Christopher Bailey recognized its potential and started the Art of the Trench.

Art of the Trench

“‘Art of the Trench came about because we receive so many souvenirs and photos from people wearing their trench coats and we decided to post them online. It’s a natural extension of everything we’re doing on the digital front and a way for our fans to interact with the culture of the brand and with the October 2012|CityScan|37

him & her all over the world can share those stories and images with each other and all the different attitudes and expressions of the Burberry trench coat and the people who wear it.”

In India the launch of the Artofthetrench coincided with the launch of the 7th Burberry store at the Oberoi, Gurgaon in the presence of 300 odd guests and celebrities like Jacqueline Fernandez, Neha Dhupia, Sushma Reddy, Dino Morea and Suneet Verma who showcased the classic trench.

Genderless and versatile

Today, the trench coat defines a ‘unique British sensibility’ in hi-fashion and is a universal garment that has been posed as ‘genderless’, making it a statement for both men and women as well as children.

emotional aspects of the trench coat,” explains Christopher Bailey, Burberry Chief Creative Officer.

Launched in 2009, Artofthetrench has been posed as a digital platform where Burberry patrons are able to put their portraits wearing trenches on the site which is linked to social networks. The idea was such a hit that since 2009, the Art of the Trench has had over 16.6 million page views from users over 200 countries.

Elaborates Bailey, “Artofthetrench.com celebrates our iconic trench coat, capturing the emotional connection behind our distinctive outerwear heritage. Everybody has a different story related to their coat or the first time they came into contact with one - I love the idea that people from 38|CityScan|october 2012

him & her “To me there are no limits - the Burberry trench coat is truly the most versatile and democratic piece of clothing that anybody can wear – it works for both men and women. There are so many different weights, lengths and colours - there truly is something for everyone and that’s part of what makes it so timeless,” explains Bailey.

Over the years the utility of the garment has been transformed and the trench has been designed for new seasons to projects different moods.

Adds Bailey, “‘The Burberry trench coat was designed

as a functional piece and throughout time has become iconic with its style. There are so many different elements to it and everything was designed for a reason, from the lapels, to different cuts, silhouettes, fabrics, colours, the belts, the d-ring details, the gun flaps.”

The trench has evolved in every sense of the word.

What Kate Middleton did by bringing it back as a wow garment has turned the spotlight on British design ethics. The classic trench needed no introduction but the British sensibilities have found a new iconic status in the luxury world, backed by the timeless appeal of its trench coats. u

By Sanghita Singh October 2012|CityScan|39

him & her

Be a couple that smells alike!

L’Occitane has created its very first collection of Eaux de Cologne. We singled out the Eau Universelle, a zesty scent that owes its name to its unisex nature. With its refreshing accord of bergamot and grapefruit, this sunny, invigorating fragrance is a beautifully timeless scent. Men and women of all ages will find it appealing. The bottle is designed with the French villages of Provence in mind and is boldly large-sized. The herringbone motif that adorns the front and back of the bottle is based on the stonework columns of Provencal fountains. Wear it to experience the aroma of two stimulating tones.

Price: Rs. 3990 for 300ml.

Where: L'Occitane, DLF Promenade, Vasant Kunj, New Delhi / Select CityWalk, Saket / Khan Market, New Delhi

Natural cleansing for

men

Kama Ayurveda has introduced its new range of face cleansers in Himalayan deodar, rose and jasmine. The Himalayan deodar face wash acts as a hydrant with smoothening and rejuvenating properties of aloe vera leaf juice, vetiver root and black cumin seeds which are anti-bacterial, lavender oil, an effective toner and patchouli oil, an anti-inflammatory lubricant which tones and tightens the skin. Filled with pure natural ingredients, it preps the skin for a comfortable shave.

The pure essential oil of rose has excellent emollient and hydrating properties keeping the skin soft, young and moisturized, while the jasmine face cleanser is an effective toner and helps reduce skin marks and scarring. Free from artificial preservatives, colorants, fragrances and petrochemicals, men now have a safe and herbal tonic for their much ignored skin.

Price: Rs. 540 for 100ml.

Where: Oberoi Hotel (New Delhi), Good Earth, The Shop, The box, Le Marche Retail, La Affaire Design, Religare Wellness, and Asian Root Spa outlets across New Delhi and NCR. 40|CityScan|october 2012

Natural recipe to tame your

mane

label.m has come up with an organic pair of shampoos in orange and lemongrass. Organic orange blossom shampoo is a lightweight formula which gently cleanses with a beautiful citrus blend of Tuscan mandarin fruit, organic Mediterranean bergamot and regal Maltese oranges. All of these three goodies are mashed in a base of Cypriot orange flower water, which deeply soothes, is nutritionally rich and ultra gentle for daily use. The lemongrass shampoo contains high levels of certified organic ingredients including quince, oats, rice milk powder and jojoba oil. Your hair would be hidrenched, naturally, without build-up.

Price: Rs. 1575. Where: Tony & Guy salons - GK, M Block (New Delhi), Studio 9, B Block Market, Sector 41 , (Noida), 2nd Floor, Cross Point Mall, DLF Phase 1V (Gurgaon)

him & her

Mask yourself with apricot

Montagne Jeunesse, a beauty-product brand from South Wales, UK, sold in 82 countries, has launched in India its apricot scrub skin exfoliating face mask. Bursting with sweet mango, this rich facial scrub deep cleanses and revitalises. Crushed apricot kernels removes dead skin cells whilst aloe vera softens and soothes, leaving skin super soft. Arguably the only 100 percent vegetarian, all natural, not tested on animals and PETA approved brand in India, try this face mask cum scrub to revamp your ‘back-from-office’ tired and dull looking skin.

Price: 150 for 16 gms.

Where: Dabur newU stores (Delhi/Noida/ Gurgaon), Le Marche stores (Delhi/ Gurgaon)

Not just any moisturiser for his skin!

Age related skin problems baffle men too and hence Neutrogena Men has come up with an age fighter skin daily moisturiser with SPF 15. Formulated with retinol, the purest form of Vitamin A, this daily moisturiser is clinically proven to give you smoother, younger and fitter looking skin.

This formula contains a boost of conditioning multi-vitamins and non-greasy moisturizers that immediately smoothes rough and dry skin. Broad Spectrum UVA/UVB SPF 15 sunscreen helps prevent future damage caused by the sun.

Price: Rs. 290 for 40 gms.

Where: All major pharmacies across Delhi/NCR

Solution to those age old blemishes

Ayurvedic way to a

firmer body shape

Forest Essentials has come up with a unique Ayurvedic formula – the Trishala Slimming range consisting of slimming oil and a body ubtan exclusively formulated for firming, toning and tightening of the skin. The range contains potent herbs and salts to target fatty deposits and cellulite. To use the firming toning oil, one is supposed to take a small amount of warm oil and massage it onto his/her body with firm strokes. After leaving for 30 minutes, a paste should be made of the ubtan with water. This further has to be applied to the body and left semi dry. Finally, rub off briskly and rinse well with warm water. Results are ought to show in a month of use. They caution the users to avoid calorie rich and fried foods.

Price: Rs. 875 for 200 ml. Where: Forest Essentials, Select CityWalk, DLF Promenade, Khan Market, GK N/M Block (New Delhi), Ambience Mall (Gurgaon)

Skeyndor, skincare brand of Spanish origin, has launched a spot eraser cream under the ‘Urban White Line’ range. This Urban White Spot Eraser Cream uses Skeyndor’s proprietary formula containing wide-spectrum de-pigmentation agents created to quickly lighten the tone of all types of skin spots or pigmentation. This cream promises to act as an ointment for old and mulish pigment spots. Available in over 45 countries, Skeyndor offers over 200 products to a variety of skin care needs. Apply their most recent tested solution for pigmentation spots management and a gleaming skin.

Price: Rs. 1500 for 15 ml.

Where: Leading salons across Delhi/NCR including Affinity, Persona, Evada, Dr. Ritu, Nayana Arora, Sundari and Fusion.

October 2012|CityScan|41

Dedicated to serving its customers’ quality skin and hair products formulated through advanced science and utilizing the company’s unique and extensive background Founded in 1851 as an old-world apothecary in New York’s East Village, Kiehl’s is dedicated to serving its customers’ quality skin and hair products formulated through the most advanced science and utilizing the company’s unique and extensive background in cosmetic, pharmaceutical, herbal and medicinal knowledge acquired and developed through the generations.

All products are formulated with sensitive skin in mind and minimal preservatives are used. Listening to the customer and generosity in sampling is a hallmark of the company’s service tradition.

Six core values that guide the Magic Elixir company’s fundamental philoso125 ml phies and product standards are: Rs. 1,900 Science, Education, Giving, Service, Respect, and Quality. Kiehl’s does not ever test products on animals.

Nearly 160 years later, Kiehl’s

can be found in over 39 countries, with 130 free standing stores and 760 points of sale. Kiehl’s products have appeared in a multitude of television series and films including Sex & The City, The Sopranos, Will & Grace, Entourage, Maid in Manhattan, American Sweetheart, Devil Wears Prada and others. Kiehl’s products have also been given away as the gift of choice at many prestigious events including The Academy Awards, affectionately known as the Oscars, the Winter Olympics, the Toronto Film Festival and the Sundance Film Festival.

Few of the all-time favourite products include Kiehl’s Ultra facial moisturizer, Kiehl’s dermatologist solution Powerful-Strength Line-Reducing Concentrate, Kiehl’s Crème de Corps Body Moisturizer, Kiehl’s Amino Acid Shampoo and Kiehl’s “Close-Shavers” Squadron Ultimate Brushless Shave Cream.

Kiehl’s Magic Elixir, globally launched in August is inspired from the hair oil traditions of India, Morocco and South East Asia. The product had been formulated with rosemary leaf, avocado oil, safflower seed oil and aloe. This lightweight elixir rebalances the scalp’s protective barrier to maintain a healthy equilibrium of moisture and nutrients. This new formula is the foundation of Kiehl’s new line of gentle, yet effective prescriptions for healthier, revitalized hair. u Where: Kiehls, Shop No 14, Ambience Mall, Vasant Kunj, New Delhi, 011-40870067 / 48B Khan Market, New Delhi, 011-41523695.

Original MUSK Eau De Toilette spray, 50 ml Rs. 2,600 42|CityScan|october 2012

Ultra Facial Cream, 50 ml Rs. 1,600

know your brand

Abyssine Serum+, 50 ml Rs. 2,600 Amino Acid Shampoo, 250 ml Rs. 1,290

Facial Fuel UV Guard with SPF for men, 30 ml, Rs. 2,400

Powerful-Strength LineReducing Concentrate, 50 ml, Rs. 3,800

Facial Fuel No-Shine Hydrator for men, 75 ml, Rs.1,590

SuperblyRestorative Dry Oil, 125 ml, Rs. 1,550

Creme de Corps Nurturing body washing cream, 200 ml, Rs. 1,000

Abyssine Cream+ SPF23, 50 ml, Rs. 2,350

Creme de Corps Original Rich Nourishing Cream, 125 ml, Rs. 1,200 October 2012|CityScan|43

“Mere colour, unspoiled by meaning, and unallied with definite form, can speak to the soul in a thousand different ways.”

– Oscar Wilde The wisdom of these words holds good in today’s modern apartments where space is restricted and it’s not possible to design your home the way you want it to be.

In such a case, colours can play an important role. Do you sit and sigh over the beautiful large homes featured in magazines?

If yes, then Raseel Gujral who is creative head of Casa Paradox and country’s leading interior designer has some advice on how your home could be just as elegant and beautiful!

Brighten up your home

Raseel Gujral talks about the latest colour trends in home decor this season 44|CityScan|october 2012

home interiors

October 2012|CityScan|45

home furnishings

In today’s scenario when space is a luxury, what is the role of colours? Do colours help in making small spaces larger?

Colours definitely play an integral role in enhancing a particular space. Light and bright colours will make your room look bigger and brighter since they maximize the effect created by natural light.

Using which colours can give depth to a room and can make it look larger?

Pastel shades like pink; mauve and blue don’t only create a cheerful atmosphere but also give the impression of a larger space. Mix hot neon’s with soft pastel for a perfect balance.

What are the colour trends for autumn-winter this season?

Pastel shades like baby pink, pista green, pale yellow and lavender are in vogue this autumn-winter season. These tones are also from our Indophile Spring Collection which we can take forward this year as the collection speaks of celebrating India with a modern twist inspired by the Mughal Era, the collection is fun, vibrant and extremely unique!

Can you throw some light on the colour spectrum and what do colours signify.

Colors signify your personality, affect your mood. If you’re in a bright and cheerful place, you’ll automatically feel more positive.

How can colours help create mood and ambience at home?

The mix of bright and subtle colours lets you have greater 46|CityScan|october 2012

home interiors

A dash of

Delhi 6 at your home

options and you can always play around with the two to suit your mood. Lighter, brighter colours give the impression of a large space whereas darker colours create a more intimate and cozy ambience.

Is there something called eco-friendly colours for home decor? What exactly are eco-friendly colours? Would you recommend them to your clients?

More than the colours, it’s the treatment which needs to be eco-friendly. Warm colours are very inviting and soothing to the eyes. Earthy colours like greens and browns can evoke thoughts of growth, fertility and harmony.

For people who believe in Vastu, what kinds of colours do you recommend to them.

Use happy colours like blues, greens and yellow.

They inspire happiness and optimism. Avoid dark tones like grey and black since they may cause despair.

What colours do you enjoy living with and which do you dislike?

I love an eclectic mélange of colours. To bring in the balancing element, I use softer hues and pastels which create the right mood. u As told to Vasujit Kalia

Chandni Chowk, built in the 17th century and flooded with culture and tradition, is still one of the busiest markets in India. Taking references from historic monuments, textures, colours and surfaces, the F&F Autumn/Winter collection celebrates the chaos and hustle bustle of this historic place, overflowing with profusion of life and culture, ancient and modern. A contemporary collection is inspired by an exciting blend of old and new, traditional and modern, simple and complex. This assortment of home furnishing retains the eternal charm and ambience of old Delhi not found anywhere else in India. Go ahead and bring a part of Chandni Chowk in your homes this season!

Price: Price on request.

Where: F&F, 2/12, WHS, Kirtinagar, New Delhi

European bridal couture for

your beds

The vintage collection – Eleganza

by Maspar attempts to bring alive the aura of the English bygone era.

This collection brings to you a blend of the classic, aesthetic designs of the past blended with energy of the present in a range of blue, gold and sage colors that will give your home a layered and elegant look.

The fabrics are fine, the colours soft and restful combined with antique motifs in the finest of fabrics. Spruce up your bedrooms with this chic collection if you fancy the European trousseau look of the 19th century.

Price: From Rs. 350 to Rs. 9995 Where: Maspar, DLF City Centre, Gurgaon/Select CityWalk, Saket, New Delhi / Spice World Mall, Noida/ South Extension II, New Delhi October 2012|CityScan|47

home interiors

Get cosy with

Address Home

This felt flower round cushioned pouffe from the house of Address Home is definitely a smart and fresh option to add liveliness and newness to the setting of your room. It is decorated with numerous roses which makes it a beautiful furnishing for your home. This pouffe is quirky, fresh and undoubtedly luxuriant.

Price: Rs: 12,000. Where: Address Home, N-3, Greater Kailash I, New Delhi.

Holy cow

– now a work of art!

Archies and Hallmark stores across the city just got perkier with the multihued Cow Parade figurines. Cow parade, one of the most successful public art events in recent times, after moo’ving around 32 countries across the world, has introduced 53 Cow Parade figurines in India.

These are all identical replicas of the temporary art gracing the streets of many cities around the globe. Used as a three dimensional art canvas, the handmade and hand painted fiberglass cows provides a form with wide surfaces and intriguing features. The three shapes (standing, grazing, reclining) provide artists with subtle, yet interesting angles and curves to create unique works of art. The pleasing and positive character of a cow makes it a charming gifting option. We at CityScan say, 'cow ahoy!'

Price: From Rs. 1999 to Rs. 8999. where: DLF Promenade, Vasant Kunj, New Delhi / Select CityWalk, Saket, New Delhi and other select Archies and Hallmark stores in Delhi/NCR

Convenient lounging experience with the latest waver

Vitra

The idea behind this waver by designer Konstantin Grcic was to deliberately depart from the conventional armchair typology. This waver by Vitra embodies a new aesthetic, incorporating materials and construction principles from outdoor sports and activity.

The technical construction being simple, this waver offers the very same comfortable seating generally associated with classic upholstered furniture. Available in the vibrant colours of lemon, papaya, hibiscus, desert and night ride, it shows off a sporty look and feel. Indulge in this luxuriant buy if you desire a sober lounge to sprawl and bask in glory!

Price: Rs. 1,58,800 where: Vitra, A-64, DDA shed, Ist Floor, Okhla Industrial Area, Phase 2, New Delhi.

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Spirit of dance in porcelain

You might just want to gaze at the pure and untouched look of this porcelain collectible. The Lladró sculptor has captured the spirit of Foxtrot, a smooth progressive dance characterized by long, continuous flowing movements across the dance floor. The fluidity of porcelain and the softness coincide wonderfully. This piece has captured a tricky step of the dance, with the legs of both dancers totally stretched out behind them. The foxtrot costumes are well depicted in this piece. The contrast between black and white apparel contributes to the expressivity of this piece. The exclusivity of this piece is such that Lladro has only launched a limited edition of 3000 pieces!

Price: Rs. 1, 01,600 where: Lladro, Select CityWalk, Saket, New Delhi/ Ambi Mall, Gurgaon

home interiors

Open-air comfort furnishing

Move your life outdoors with the new ‘Diamond line’ collection by Cane-Line combining lounge atmosphere and comfort. All furniture is UV resistant, colourfast and resistant to water and frost damage. The cushions allow rain water to pass through. Acquire it for your home gardens and open-air grounds as each CaneLine design is created with the Scandinavian summer days and nights in mind to bring a vibrant outdoor living experience. The fibre is a dyed, hard wearing polyethylene. Caution: The entire outdoor range is maintenance free, but ordinary cleaning will keep it looking sharp for years and prolong its lifetime. Besides, the furniture is recommended to be covered or placed indoors during winters. Want more? They even offer matching sun beds, parasols and pavilions!

Price: From Rs. 21,000 to Rs. 1, 10,000 where: Cane-Line, 82-83, New Manglapuri, Mehrauli – Gurgaon Road, New Delhi.

Silver tokens for a

memorable festive season

Known to enjoy a repertoire that responds to the season of every reason, Episode places a charming and eclectic offering for the upcoming Diwali season. From the to the , they have endeavoured to incorporate all that could meet your festive envision. Hiring young designers from institutions like the NID and NIFT, Episode boasts of a strong design team which creates the finest silver plated merchandise.

Besides being an interesting gifting option, these silver coated items also brings that saintly air to your abode. Buy it to craft a royal room you’ve been envisioning for this season.

Price: From Rs. 550 to Rs. 22,820. where: Episode, N-10, Greater Kailash 1 Market, New Delhi / Terminal 3, International Departure / Domestic Departure (Security Hold Area), IGI airport, New Delhi/ 203, Galaxy Tower, Sector 15, Part 2, Gurgaon

Exquisite silverware for newly weds Gifts form an integral part of the Indian wedding.

Cooke & Kelvey acknowledge this and brings to you the best wedding collection with intricate silver work gift sets in form of tea sets, bar sets and bowls.

Since silver has always symbolised nobility, this wedding range is an ultimate collection for newly weds. While the three-piece tea and breakfast sets are great for tables and chic gatherings, the bar sets including beer mugs, wine coolers and chippandle ice buckets presents superior quality and craftsmanship. We picked this bowl for its fine silver embossing and carving and its multi purpose utility, ideal for serving sweets and fruits.

Price: From Rs. 97,000 to Rs. 127,000 where: Cooke & Kelvey, 3, Scindia House, Janpath, New Delhi October 2012|CityScan|49

home interiors

Create food and memories with

Fisher&Paykel

Kitchen comfort just got a step further with the Fisher&Paykel kitchen solution, a ‘pop up’ installation concept, where food meets design. Fisher & Paykel appliances include built-in ovens, hobs, dish-washers, coffee makers, refrigerators, washing machines and dryers. Fisher&Paykel refrigerators use active-smart technology which combines guidance from a microprocessor and interior temperature sensors, with independently controlled variable speed fans and multiple air ducts to maintain a stable and even temperature. Fast cooking is the primary advantage of the built-in combination microwave oven. The feature of steam oven adds yet another dimension to oven based cooking. The built-in coffee machine is designed with adjustable coffee strength and temperatures, multiple coffee cup sizes and 15-bar pressure at the touch of a button.

The other products include rangehoods, electric cooktops, gas cooktops and induction cooktops.

Price: From Rs. 23,000 to 225,000. Where: Various Fisher&Paykel dealer stores across New Delhi/NCR

Kitchen of steel

Arttd’inox brings to the Indian markets modern modular kitchens in stainless steel. Tailor-made for Indian wet and oily cooking conditions, this kitchen is modern, linear and minimal, but attentive to traditional necessities. The rationality of design is complimented by particular attention to the finishing of the product. Why go steel? This timeless material increases the kitchen's life span and makes it pest free. Attractions for a purchaser include a single piece stainless steel table top with a seamless sink, an island chimney, choice of integrated gadgets, a generous working area and availability in any customised colour.

Price: From 10 lakh (extra charges depending on the appliance fittings and design). Where: Arttd'inox, Defence Colony, New Delhi

The new German-made cookhouse

The all new Emotion NOVA provides plenty of storage space and exactly the right setting for the changing demands of a contemporary kitchen. This new Germanmade modular kitchen launch by Hacker boasts of a fascinating combination of gently rounded curves and strict geometry. The new aesthetics of Emotion Nova opens up a completely new view of interior design where the designers identified with daily kitchen activities and made them uncomplicated and easy. You would like to build this kitchen at your homes for its effortless and minimalistic appearance and a painless life-long kitchen usage.

Price: Price on request. Where: Hacker, A-248, Mahipalpur Extn., NH-8, Delhi - Gurgaon Road, New Delhi

50|CityScan|october 2012

October 2012|CityScan|51

Delhi

Speak Akshita Zutshi

What inspires you to go the mall/ market? Going to the malls and markets relaxes and rejuvenates me especially after a hard day at work.

Also it’s the best way to spend time and bond with friends.

Favourite purchase last month. I got a dress from Zara.

Brands you visit at least once every month. Zara and Mango are the brands that I visit often.

Preferred cafes/restaurants. I like going to Big Chill Café for its desserts and Mamagoto for the food.

How many times in a month do you go shopping? I shop twice a week.

Average time you spend at a mall at each visit. On an average, I spend atleast an hour and a half at a mall.

Favourite mall activity (outside of shopping). I love doing window shopping.

Categories of items you buy the most. I buy clothes mostly.

What inspires you to go the mall/market?

Delhi is not much of an outdoor city, so the only form of entertainment is the mall and our daughter loves to go there.

Favourite purchase last month. I purchased clothes for my children.

Brands you visit at least once every month. I visit Mothercare, Benetton, The Body Shop, Forest Essentials, Zara, Marks and Spencer every month.

Preferred cafes/restaurants. I prefer going to Mamagoto, Italia and Kylin.

How many times in a month do you go shopping? I go once in every two weeks.

Average time you spend at a mall at each visit. I spend one and a half hours on an average.

Favourite mall activity (outside of shopping). I enjoy eating out.

Categories of items you buy the most. I buy clothes and footwear the most.

52|CityScan|october 2012

ni Amit Jaisingha What inspires you to go the mall/ market? I go to a mall whenever it is required.

Favourite purchase last month. A pair of Bally slippers would have to be my favourite purchase.

Brands you visit at least once every month: Zara Preferred cafes/restaurants: TK's at Hyatt and Kylin How many times in a month do you go shopping? I shop once in two weeks.

Average time you spend at a mall at each visit. I spend one and a half hours.

Favourite mall activity (outside of shopping). I love to watch movies.

Categories of items you buy the most. I buy clothes mostly.

Pooja Puri What inspires you to go the mall/market? From product point of view it's the branding and packaging and from service point of view it's the multiple options a mall provides like shopping and dining.

Favourite purchase last month.

A bag from Charles & Keith, eye shadow from limited collection of M.A.C named Sailor and some more cosmetic from Inglot are my recent buys.

Brands you visit at least once every month. Kiehl's, M.A.C, Zara, Inglot.

Preferred cafes/ restaurants. 1911, Yellow Brick Road, [V] Spot Cafe, Shalom are most preferred by me.

How many times in a month do you go shopping? I shop twice a week.

Average time you spend at a mall at each visit. I usually spend more than three hours.

Favourite mall activity (outside of shopping). I like doing window shopping and watching movies in a mall.

Categories of items you buy the most. Clothes, accessories and make up.

Samir Sood What inspires you to go the mall/ market? There is nothing else to do in Delhi except going to a mall with friends and to watch a movie or sit with them in a bar.

Favourite purchase last month. A cordless keyboard and mouse for computer is what I purchased recently.

Brands you visit at least once every month. Puma and Tissot are visited by me often.

Preferred cafes/restaurants. Toro in Khan Market and Keya at Promenade Mall are my favourite as they are the only two places with great food and music.

How many times in a month do you go shopping? Since I am not much of a shopaholic I shop once in a month.

Average time you spend at a mall at each visit. I spend more than three hours because either I am watching a movie or chilling with my friends.

Favourite mall activity (outside of shopping). Eating out and watching movies.

Categories of items you buy the most. Most often I buy electronics and footwear.

Ananya Berry

What inspires you to go the mall/market? Free weekdays, and movies drag me to the mall.

Favourite purchase last month.

My Senheiser headphones.

Brands you visit at least once every month. Zara, Forever New at least once every month.

Preferred cafes/restaurants: I prefer going to Amici, L'Opera, KFC. How many times in a month do you go shopping? I shop once in two weeks.

Average time you spend at a mall at each visit. On an average I spend 45 minutes chilling in a mall.

Favourite mall activity (outside of shopping). Watching a movie is what I will prefer to do.

Categories of items you buy the most. Whenever I shop I buy footwear mostly.

Gazzal Kachru khi Deepkaran Re What inspires you to go the mall/market? I go to malls for entertainment; to hang out with friends, catch movies, eat and of course shopping.

Favourite purchase last month. My Manchester United jersey from Nike.

Brands you visit at least once every month. Nike, Zara, Adidas and Planet M. Preferred cafes/restaurants.

Amicci, Czar, Boulevard are my any day favourite hang outs.

How many times in a month do you go shopping? Once in two weeks.

Average time you spend at a mall at each visit. I spend one and a half hours.

Favourite mall activity (outside of shopping). I would love to watch a movie.

Categories of items you buy the most. Electronics.

What inspires you to go the mall/market? Meeting with friends and buying utilities and other need stuff.

Favourite purchase last month. A stole from Fendi.

Brands you visit at least once every month. Clinique, M.A.C, La Marche are the brands that I can't resist.

Preferred cafes/restaurants. TGI Friday’s, Smoke House Deli and Auma.

How many times in a month do you go shopping? Twice a week.

Average time you spend at a mall at each visit. I spend around three hours.

Favourite mall activity (outside of shopping). Exploring food destinations.

Categories of items you buy the most. I buy groceries and apart from that I love to shop for cosmetics.

October 2012|CityScan|53

art artists

Masterclass in

Text by Kishore singh Photo courtesy: Delhi Art Gallery

As contemporary artists continue to make strides, collectors continue to be drawn to the masters and the moderns for their ability to retain their value in both historical as well as remunerative terms. New Delhi today has the largest number of art galleries of any Indian city, and the art market is just as strong in the Capital. Of these, the Delhi Art Gallery (at DLF Emporio and in Hauz Khas Village) has the largest inventory and collection of artworks that range from preindependence art to its major strength, the moderns. Its repertoire includes Western artists as well as those of the Bengal School, the Progressive Artists’ Group and associated moderns, and those from Cholamandalam, Baroda and, of course, Delhi. The handpicked selection here is representative of the nature of art and artists, the gallery deals in. More information is available on www.delhiartgallery.com

Francis Newton Souza Untitled (Nude with Striped Shirt) Acrylic, pen and ink on paper, 1965 9 x 7.2 in.

Rs 15,00,000 F N Souza studied at Sir J J School of Art, Bombay, from where he was expelled. He joined the Communist Party of India, and founded the Progressive Artists’ Group that has since become the most recognised face of Indian modernism.

Having shocked the art-lovers of Bombay, Souza shifted to live and work in London, where he was extremely successful.

His move to New York, thereafter, but failed to recreate the same magic, though he went on to find a hybrid medium of his own, called ‘chemical alterations’. One of India’s most significant artists, he continued to paint nudes alongside his landscapes and still-lifes till his death in 2002.

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art artists

Jyoti Bhatt Untitled Watercolour, pen and ink and gouache on paper, 1957 30 x 22 in.

Rs 5,00,000 Jyoti Bhatt created an interesting blend in his work of the folk and the modern. Educated in Baroda, he reinvented his own canvases on which he eliminated both depth and perspective as traditionally understood in Western art, replacing them with a more familiar Indian idiom. The arrangement in his paintings appears naïve, and he uses a clean outline.

In eliminating chiaroscuro, he also eliminates a source of light, so the rendition appears flat. In this figurative work, the white background is layered over a darker one to create a texture. The woman, dressed in native garments, holds a lantern in one hand towards which the viewer is directed by the gaze of her eyes.

Avinash Chandra Building on Stilts Oil on board, c. 1958 32 x 24 in.

Rs 15,00,000 An important artist in the United Kingdom – Avinash Chandra was based in London for the bulk of his career – but little-known in India. Avinash Chandra’s early work has echoes of F N Souza. His choice of bold colours and strong lines in his landscapes would soon be replaced by hallucinogenic colours in large mural-like works that were replete with erotic imagery and nudes. Chandra insisted that his work needed to be ‘read’ than merely viewed. Because of the multiple layering, it is possible to spot interesting images overlaid by the main work, which makes it a joy to discover the hidden or secret aspects of his art.

October 2012|CityScan|55

art artists

Gulam Rasool Santosh Shiva Shakti Series Oil and acrylic on canvas, 1970 50.5 x 40.2 in.

Rs 40,00,000 The tantric school of Indian modernism owes a huge debt to G R Santosh, a self-taught artist from Srinagar who painted landscapes for tourists before being sent to Baroda to study art under N S Bendre by S H Raza. For a brief while Santosh dabbled with cubist-inspired figurative works. A visit to Amarnath and a mystic experience opened the doors to tantric symbology, and Santosh went on to do a defining body of work on the subject. The use of primary colours and interpretation of tantric symbols in a modern idiom lent them distinctiveness. His work was collected by Chester Herwitz, and comes up frequently in auctions.

Prasanto Roy Light Awakening Watercolour wash on paper, c. 1950 10.7 x 8 in.

Rs 6,00,000 An exponent of the Bengal School, this work captures the delicacy and softness of the wash technique of painting that became popular in Calcutta and Santiniketan, and was taught to Abanindranath Tagore and his disciples by Japanese art teachers. Among those inspired by the medium were Nandalal Bose – who painted the Indian Constitution – and other Calcutta artists such as Surendranath Ganguly and Asit Haldar. The School found itself at the forefront of the nationalistic struggle and reclaimed the heritage of Indian mythology before it lost momentum to the more aggressive modernism of the Bombay artists.

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art artists

Syed Haider Raza Untitled Acrylic on canvas, 1979 12 x 12 in.

Rs 35,00,000 Considered India’s most expensive artist, S H Raza was a member of the Progressives. He moved to Paris to study further and made France his home for the next six decades.

Recently returned to India, he now lives and works in New Delhi. Since 1979, he has been painting the Bindu and the Mandala in particular, as part of the five elements, around which his geometrical abstraction is based. Raza had already started working on abstracts before this shift, but the critics award that he won in France, soon after making it his home, was representative of his earlier, more impressionistic body of work.

Maqbool Fida Husain Untitled Acrylic on canvas with artificial beads and stone pasted on it 40 x 32.2 in.

Rs 1,25,00,000 For several decades the face of Indian modern art, M F Husain was also a great believer and painter of India’s syncretic culture. His works on the Ramayana and the Mahabharata remain iconic, as do those on Mother Teresa and slightly irreverent ones on the Raj. For many, his most seminal work is Between the Spider and the Lamp, inspired by his visit to Egypt. Husain’s love of women featured prominently in his art, and he devoted himself to painting them both aesthetically as well as in all their strength. This would also be exemplified in the manner in which he went on to paint – and make films – with actresses Madhuri Dixit, Tabu and, finally, Amrita Rao.

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art artists

Haren Das Peaceful Life Lithograph on paper, 1962 10 x 15 in.

Rs 1,50,000 Printmaking has failed to capture popular imagination in India, with collectors unaware of the ‘original’ possibilities of various printmaking possibilities such as lithographs, chromolithographs, etchings, drypoint, engravings and so on. Despite this, Haren Das chose to restrict himself to this dynamic medium, creating an idyllic world in the bargain – of Bengal’s lyrical countryside, which he continued to depict in its peaceful, bucolic nature, rejecting all suggestions of violence occurring all around. Considered a master-printmaker, his works are great collectables alongside those of other printmakers such as Somnath Hore and Chittaprosad.

Chittaprosad Untitled Brush and ink on paper, 1947 8.2 x 14.2 in.

Rs 5,00,000 Chittaprosad is one of India’s more astonishing secrets, an artist all other artists looked up to, but whose work was rarely seen and even less exhibited in his lifetime because of his left-leaning ideology. Having started out as an artist who was sent out to report – though ‘draw’ would be the better description – the Bengal famine of 1943-44, his heartrending drawings appeared in the weekly People’s War, and in Hungry Bengal, an excoriating account of the horrors he witnessed. Copies of Hungry Bengal were seized and destroyed by the British. Chittaprosad’s later works were protest-driven, and railed against politics, though he imagined an idyllic children’s world and did exemplary illustrations for a children’s Ramayana that was never, alas, published.

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art artists

Sunil Das Horses Charcoal on paper 24.7 x 31.7 in.

Rs 3,00,000

Sunil Das, a long-term resident of Calcutta, has made several paintings on the darker erotic side of the slums of the Sonagachi red-light district. But his most playful works consist of his drawings and charcoal sketches of bulls and horses, captured in all their strength. Sunil Das was drawn to working with bulls following a visit to Spain, though his horses owe their existence to the racetrack and the police academy in Calcutta where the mounted police were trained to ride on horses. Despite their obvious sweat and sinews, Sunil Das’s horses also display a playful quality.

Himmat Shah Untitled Terracotta, 1982 11 x 6.7 in.

Rs 12,00,000 Himmat Shah was always drawn to the very earthy, inspired by the excavations and sense of the lost history of the Indus Valley Civilization at Lothal in Gujarat. His drawings and prints too tend to concentrate on layers that hide rather than reveal. A prominent sculptor, Himmat Shah likes to work in terracotta, and his Heads are often products of a long-ago past and the mysteries they contain. This head, though, is unusual in being atypical. The eyes gaze out in astonishment, and in making one larger than the other, the sculptor has been able to lend both a modern twist as well as a way of skewing the sculpture. The pursed lips add to the sculpted head’s viewing of something unique.

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handicrafts bazaar

Reliable

One Stop Shop CityScan rediscovers the legendary world of Cottage Emporium It is fascinating to comprehend how the Indian craft tradition has endured the passage of time and endless foreign incursions and still continues to flourish and be appreciated. The credit probably goes to the absorbent nature of Indian civilization and broadmindedness and liberalism of the handicraftsmen to accept and employ new ideas. While on a look-out for the best artisanic-handicrafts in the Capital, we went on a rediscovery of the Central Cottage Industries Emporium, popularly known as Cottage Emporium, and were swayed by its abundance.

Positioned opportunely at Janpath since the last 60 years (it was housed earlier in another location on Janpath itself), a hot-spot for travellers, buyers of antiques, handicrafts and garments, the Cottage Emporium is one of the most famous and important buildings of the area and engulfs an entirely new creative world within its generous 54,000 square feet structure! This world of art encompasses silver possessions, dress fabrics, home dÊcor and furnishings, decorative and gift items, tea and other herbal items, garments and accessories for men, women and children and handicrafts, an exclusive medley of all Indian states and elapsed art forms. The emporium sources these relics from national award winning artisans and weavers who create handicrafts and woven ethnics solely for them. To avoid going astray, we’ve zoomed in on a few sections of the Cottage to fetch the finest produce we witnessed.

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Sarees Unravelling the whole nine yards Name it and you have it – Lucknow chikankari, Banaras silk, Orissa vegetable dye, block-printed, patola, gadwal, cotton dabu printed, baluchari , chanderi, paithani, kanjivaram amongst a hundred other varieties of sarees. In this horde of dyes and needlework, what caught our attention were the handpainted Kalamkari sarees, Banarasi sarees and Ikkats.

Banarasi sarees, made in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, are deemed to be amongst the finest sarees in India and are distinguished for their gold and silver brocade embroidery on fine silk. Depending on To create this Ikkat saree, the weaver has the complexity of designs and patterns, a Banarasi avidly followed designs from the walls of The artist had planned to make this the temples of Orissa. Barely a few weaver into a customary Banarasi saree until saree can take 15 days to six months to complete. families are blessed with the flair of fabricating the Cottage Emporium directed him These heavy sarees with Mughal inspired designs such art work since this talent is not shared to give it the Maharastrian Paithani with an ordinary worker. Costing a deserving pallu, thus resulting into a piece of make an inevitable part of Indian bride’s trousseau.

2, 54,000, here’s hoping these weavers fusion. Priced at Rs. 38,000, this Kalamkari saree is a type of hand painted or block Rs. convincingly engage their progenies too to saree has an elegant blue ghicha with keep this tradition intact. zari work to avoid the gaudy look. printed fabric art done in the villages of Andhra Pradesh and is most associated What makes this Banarasi bit with Machilipatnam on the coast of the striking is the rich navy blue and state. The story goes that in the primeval magenta composition with orange Although a piece of traditional and golden borders. Such a credible fine ar t, this hand painted times, groups of musicians and painters, amalgamation of traditional pallu Kalamakari can be opportunely called chitrakattis, went around the villages and colours with zari cut work would draped and carried in a make one want to spend a fitting contemporary manner. A mixture to explain the great stories of Indian myRs. 8100, considering the work and of black and white with earthy thology.

Progressively, during the course inimitability of this saree. colours, this saree costs an approximately Rs. 12,000. of history, they exemplified their versions by means of large bolts of canvas painted on the spot with simple means of dyes extracted from plants. As a result, Kalamkari art had been born. A Kalamkari saree designer follows a laborious slow process of resist dying and hand painting and it only demands the discipline of a purist to complete this traditional process.

Ikkat saree tradition of Orissa is an intricate process of tie and die which can take from seven months to two years to complete. It involves knotting of yarn before dipping them in separate colours one at a time and finally entwining them to produce the most charming designs in threads of both silken and gold. It has been recognised that the tracing of Ikkat tradition is near to impossible since woven fabric hardly survives for more than a few centuries. It is said to have developed in several different locations parallely. Worn by the women of Orissa since time immemorial in blue, read, magenta and other deep colours, these eye catching Indian Ikkat sarees are made within the state mainly at Nuapatna, near Cuttack, or in the weaving inland centres around Sambalpur, Bargarh, Sonepur and Boudh districts.

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handicrafts bazaar

Paintings Incredible representations From the earliest rock paintings before 5500 BC to the postliberalist art, Indian paintings provide an aesthetic continuum.

Look through this art medley if you’re an art buyer or simply have a sensitivity to artistic beauty and refined taste.

Pattachitra The tradition of Pattachitra is closely linked with the worship of Lord Jagannath. The word patta means canvas and chitra means picture. This art form is defined by its rich use of colours, creative motifs and designs and its portrayal of simple themes which are based on the Hindu mythology. The chitrakars prepare vegetable and mineral colours. White colour, for instance, is made by powdering, boiling and filtering of conch-shells. The brushes that are used by these chitrakaras are also indigenous and are made of hair of domestic animals.

Describing the relationship of all life on earth in an evolutionary context, the tree of life painting is an intricate piece of art. With a Rs. 18,000 tag, this representation of a straight tree also signifies a strong warrior who survives it all- the cyclic movements of seasons and bending with the tough winds, unscathed.

This beautiful complex Kalamkari work shows Goddess Saraswati in a tranquil state. A painting like this is popularly used in the temple processions. Costing only Rs. 1000, these cloth paintings can either be framed or used otherwise inventively in a traditional home setting.

Tree of Life The tree of life is a sacred symbol in most cultures. With its branches spread delightfully and roots dug deep in the earth, it is said to dwell in all the three worlds – the heaven, earth and the underworld.

It has both feminine symbol, bearing nourishment and a masculine phallic symbol. The printed and painted Tree of Life was considered an auspicious cloth in the remote islands of the Indonesian archipelago. Earlier, in remote forested areas such as Toraja in Sulawesi, the bridegroom offered a tree to his bride as bride price, but the shortage of trees and of land eventually led to the offering of the painted Tree of Life, signifying an eternal relationship.

This Pattachitra shows Lord Krishna playing flute with Goddess Radha, amongst other dancing gopis. The scenery can be sited nearby the Yamuna river, under kadam trees. This countryside folklore painting is priced at Rs. 3000.

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Kalamkari These mythological paintings generally follow a colour code – female deities in yellow (derived from mango bark and pomegranate seeds), male deities in blue( from indigo flowers) and demons in red (from Indian madder root) or green(by painting yellow on blue). The brush used in Kalamkari is a sharpened bamboo stick with a ball of cotton wool tied to it. The wool ball retains the dye and as pressure is applied the dye flows through the fine point of pen. The tradition of Kalamkari paintings got a major boost under the patronage of the Muslim rulers of the Golconda region in the state of Andhra Pradesh. During the Mughal rule, Kalamkari paintings were sold to Persians and Egyptians.

This undersized brass cow and calf figures in Dhokra are tribal art pieces from Chattisgarh.

Nandi has been mythologically considered the vahan (vehicle) of Lord Shiva. A purchase for Rs. 5500 to 8000, these would make an environment authentic without taking much space.

These mini Ganeshas in pure white marble are embellished with pure gold leaf work. Availaible in several big and small sizes, these auspicious red, orange and yellow items vary between Rs. 850 to Rs. 1760.

Artefacts Gallery of sculptures The Indian artefacts are the conception of early people who were exposed to changing landscapes as they travelled across the valleys and highlands of India. Carrying with themselves the experiences and reminiscences of several places, the Indian art came to consist of potent patterns of life. This matrix of folk expressions created gave birth to the most sophisticated art forms.

Chola Bronzes Bronze casting in India is an ancient technique and dates back 5000 years to the lovely dancing girl of Harappan civilization.

Rulers of Chola dynasty(9th century) were amazing temple builders and the religion was propagated through mobile images of deities in bronze.

Each bronze is made by the traditional technique of lost wax, in which a wax mould of a sculpture is first created and the face is finally crafted by the master craftsman.

Dhokra What makes Dhokra art special is that no two pieces are alike and their unique surface texture makes one feel that bronze wires are wound around the basic form. Predominantly hollow cast, they use the method of lost wax casting, which has been known to the pre-Aryan tribals. Apart from the head and arms, they are hollow and built up on the core. The Dhokra figures are generally small, depicting major and minor local deities. This unique tradition is practiced particularly in the tribal belt that runs from West Bengal and Bihar though Orissa into Madhya Pradesh.

Gold leaf work on marble This art has its origin in the regal city of Jaipur in Rajasthan. These are handcrafted pieces of marble with pure gold-leaf work on it. Once the marble is crafted, designs are drawn on it by expert craftsmen. The subject of these designs varies from flower motifs to traditional miniature paintings and old traditional jewellery designs. These designs are imprinted with pure gold leaf with the help of an adhesive followed by embellishments with pure gold polish and colours.

This human art form in Chola bronze is an expressive slender was ted, broad shouldered sculpted idol. At Rs. 36,000, this form is both sacred and sensuous and is a celebration of human body, that is so dominant in Indian art and culture.

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handicrafts bazaar

Silver work Glitter of the golden era Jewellery art does not have an ardent following and a relatively small group of collectors and museums buy these to satisfy their artistic cravings. The Cottage Emporium has a special section of Bankura silver which encompasses handcrafted silver merchandise in a minimum 91.5 % purity.

Filigree art Filigree is a remarkable branch of delicate jewel work done with twisted metal threads, usually of gold and silver.

Fine flexible threads of metal are curled, warped and plaited. They are further united by their points of contact with each other, by means of gold or silver soldering and borax, by the help of a blowpipe to create the desired object. The most popular Filigree centres in India are Cuttack (Orissa), Karimnagar (Andhra Pradesh), SriThis silver enamelled Ambawari depicts a royal procession of the nagar (Kashmir), Tiruchirappally emperor. Perched majestically (Tamil Nadu), Agartala (Tripura), atop a bejewelled elephant, the emperor sits under a royal canopy.

Kota (Rajasthan) and Trivandrum A favourite amongst foreign (Kerala). Filigree work was combuyers, this piece costs Rs 2200 to Rs. 55,000 depending upon the monly done historically by the size and work.

Greeks and Etruscans.

The Indian Filigree workers are the only ones who have retained the same patterns as those of the ancient Greeks. Due to lack of patronage, Filigree is a dying art.

This peahen in Banaras Meenakari is available in four sixes. Starting from Rs. 3478 to Rs. 10,089, this piece of art signifies happiness and hope. Adorned with flower motifs and lot many dazzling colours, the customers were actively engaging in knowing about it.

Such fine articles of Filigree work have been known to beautify the palaces of kings and emperors.

Created by master silversmiths of Cuttack, Kolkatta and Karimnagar, this Balaji piece wor th Rs. 1,03,359 is delicate and stunning.

Banaras Meenakari The art of silver enamelling is more than 500 years old. This craft, practiced in Banaras or Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh has its roots in the Persian art of Meenakari, Meena being the Persian word for glass. The most exotic element of this art is the use of pink colour in various shades. The base is silver sheet fixed on a metallic base.

Meena or glass powder mixed with pomegranate seeds in water is fixed on various parts of the product with a flat metallic tool called qalam. The finished good is decorated with semi precious stones and pearls. The most popular produce of Banaras Meenakari is in the form of Indian elephants, peacocks, small boxes and jewellery pieces like bangles, necklaces and pendants.

Silver enamelled Ambawari This ancient art was developed and nurtured in the holy city of Banaras under the benefaction of the Mughal emperors. Enamelling is basically an art of colouring and adorning silver by using various mineral substances over it. This art requires a lot of persistence, imagination and a quick reflex at every step of its creation.

The purity of the silver used in this art is 95 percent.

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handicrafts bazaar

Copper bells for Rs. 190 each

quick picks Purse box locket with chain worth Rs. 95 to Rs. 124 each

Dolphin ash trays worth Rs. 250 each approximately Stone car ving produced in metal in the form of a shank. Rs. 4000

Ethnic spectacle covers worth Rs. 250 each

Miniature peacock shaped scissors and cutter worth Rs. 320 each

Lit tle colour ful diya containers and gift items ranging between Rs. 300 to 2000 each

fastfacts

• Cottage Emporium sells all its artisanry at government regulated prices i.e. no bargaining, a haven for buyers, especially vulnerable foreigners, since there is no chance of getting duped.

• The Cottage has its own website through which worldwide delivery of all its products is possible.

Do keep a copy of your identity proof, address and credit card at the time of delivery for verification • It has branches at all four metros and major cities like Bangalore, Jaipur etc, providing artists, artisans and craftsmen the most trustworthy and direct access to the markets and securing their future, which is otherwise likely to fade away.

By Varalika vij October 2012|CityScan|65

electronic gadgets

Notebook

check

Outdoor notebooking

Fujitsu Lifebook AH531 is a solid and reliable notebook with a high definition anti-glare 39.6 cm (15.6-inch) LCD, perfect for outdoor working. The outdoor functioning is possible due to the integrated WLAN, bluetooth and embedded 3G/UMTS which can work anytime and anywhere. Intel wireless display support, 1.3 megapixel webcam, and a digital microphone totals the finesse of this classy high-gloss wonder. It provides complete security by protecting the customer’s value data like confidential figures, pictures, videos and more.

Price: Rs. 45,000. where: Fujitsu, Contact on marketing-india@ts.fujitsu.com or toll free number 1800 102 3457 to know the nearest dealer

Next-gen gaming notebook

Asus G75VW, a 17.3 inch notebook equipped with full HD non-glare 3D panel, is the professed future of gaming notebooks. Based on the advanced Intel chief river platform, it has 3rd generation Intel ivy bridge processor with the latest nVidia GeForce GTX 670M dedicated graphics. It comes loaded with 16GB RAM, 1.3TB Hard Drive and Blu Ray Comb drive along with genuine Windows7 Home Premium operating system. Finicky about sound quality?

The G75VW features the ASUS proprietary SonicMaster sound technology which delivers a deep crystal-clear thud with the richness of bass sound playing. For better user experience of notebook input interface, ASUS has enlarged the touchpad and provided a smoother multi-gesture while scrolling

Price: Rs. 139,999. where: Asus, Ansal Tower, 38, Nehru Place, New Delhi / J-29, Sector 18 Noida

The lightest Apple MacBook Pro ever

Measuring a mere 0.71 inches and weighing only 4.46 pounds, the completely redesigned MacBook Pro sets a new standard in performance and portability for pro users. The new MacBook Pro retina display is the world’s highest resolution notebook display with over 5 million pixels, 3 million more than an HD television! At 220 pixels-per-inch, the retina display’s pixel density is so high the human eye cannot distinguish individual pixels from a normal viewing distance. The battery delivers up to 7 hours of wireless productivity, and uses advanced chemistry and adaptive charging technology to provide up to 1,000 recharges. The MacBook Pro also features a face time HD camera, glass multi-touch track pad, full-size backlit keyboard, dual microphones, enhanced speakers, 3-stream 802.11n Wi-Fi and a thinner mag safe 2 power port. Featuring a precision engineered aluminum unibody design and an all flash storage architecture, it is the lightest MacBook Pro ever.

Price: From 81,900 to Rs. 1, 52,900 depending on different sizes and memory space. where: iMagine, MGF Metropolitan Mall, Gurgaon / iWorld, DLF Promenade, Vasant Kunj, New Delhi / DLF Place, Saket and other dealer stores across Delhi/NCR

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electronic gadgets

Cameras hottest new launches

The ultimate pocket-sized camera

Sleekly crafted in aluminium for strength, lightness and luxurious looks, Sony DSC-RX100 is the world’s first 1.0-type Exmor CMOS sensor camera with a resolution of 20.2 effective megapixels.

Capturing far more light than small-sensor cameras, it’s the key to beautiful, detail packed images and full HD movie clips with very low noise. The larger sensor is partnered with an ultra-bright Carl Zeiss Vario-Sonnar T lens with 3.6x optical zoom range. Speedy burst shooting at up to 10 frames per second (full-resolution) lets you grab split-second photo opportunities, while high-speed autofocus locks onto your target in as little as 0.13 seconds. Just like a DSLR camera, there’s a choice of auto and manual focus modes for even greater control over your image. It will act as an accomplished partner for travel, portraits or street photography, with impressive picture quality and comfortable control options. It’s also ideal as a pocket-sized second camera while you’re on the move.

Price: Rs. 34,990. where: Select Sony centers and dealer stores across Delhi/NCR

Better deal for

EOS users

Canon launches the EOS 650D, its first DSLR camera with an intuitive 3 inch variangle capacitive touch LCD screen which can be used to focus as well as click pictures. It features a hybrid CMOS censor with vastly improved continuous autofocus, a newly developed 18MP, APS-C sensor, 9-point and all cross-type AF system. These features when combined with the new STM lenses, allows for unbeatable performance for video shooting. In addition to the EOS 650D, Canon is releasing two new EF lenses. Both these lenses feature Canon’s new STM (Stepped Motor), for faster, improved and virtually silent focusing – a huge boon for both still image and video shooters.

Price: Rs. 55,995 where: Canon Image Square retail outlets and dealers across Delhi/NCR

Not for ordinary shutterbugs With a never heard before 36.3 megapixel FX format CMOS sensor and a host of other exemplary features, the Nikon D800E is the current sought after camera. A 3.2 inch LCD monitor, eye level penta-prism view finder, expeed 3 image-processing engine, Nikon F mount lens and a thousand other features is what D800E boasts of. Even the command buttons can be customised and one can do a full RAW processing in the camera without the need of software.

Heavier and bigger than the normal DSLR cameras, this one needs a decent amount of photography proficiency as there are no full auto modes.

Price: Rs. 1, 74,950 where: Nikon dealer stores across Delhi/NCR October 2012|CityScan|67

electronic gadgets

Interact

with your TV

Samsung 2012 smart television range - LED ES8000, ES7500 and the Plasma E8000 series deliver an outstanding and complete experience that brings the future of home entertainment to users. Smart interaction allows users to interact with their TV in a new and more instinctive way using sophisticated voice and motion control as well as face recognition technology. With smart evolution, users can reinvent their television viewing with the latest in improved picture quality, faster speed, more contents and features. Smart content allows users to enjoy streamlined and updated Smart Hub access to a world of content, apps, web browsing and more, as well as diverse 3D content. Pick it for its sleek curved look with an innovative stand that completes this masterwork.

Price: From Rs. 37,700 to Rs. 273,000 Where: Samsung dealer shops across Delhi/NCR

Televisions

Best 3D offerings Put on your 3D glasses!

LG India introduces its latest offering in 3D – the Cinema 3D TV which gives its viewers refined and realistic 3D images and content. An add-on feature that distinguishes this television from other players in the market is ‘dual play’. In the dual play mode each player can use the full display. This magical effect is achieved with the same polarizing glasses technology that LG uses to display 3D programming. Another pleasant feature added is the media server with which one can stream video files directly to the TV by downloading free server software on a PC connected to the same network. To complete the Cinema 3D package, the TV also incorporates the expanded LG Smart TV online content package, which offers easy access to thousands of movies, customized apps, videos, web browsing as well as simple multimedia file sharing within a consumer’s home network. The 3D glasses weigh just 16 g and don’t need to be recharged at all.

Price: From Rs. 59,000 to Rs. 265,000 for screen sizes of 32, 42, 47 and 55 inches.

Where: LG dealer stores across Delhi/NCR 68|CityScan|october 2012

Social media now on your television!

Centered on the five pillars of quality-picture, networking, easy operation, design and eco-friendliness, the new range of Panasonic Smart Viera flat panel televisions aims at bringing new entertainment experiences for customers right into their living room. With select VIERA connect models, Panasonic also introduced a new range of smart applications which allow consumers to interact with their Smart Viera TVs. The ‘swipe and share’ app lets the consumers share private contents via Viera remote app, the ‘browse and share’ app enables the browser to support HTML5 pages, so that consumers can browse the internet much like a PC and the ‘watch and chat’ app enables you to stay in touch with your friends through Twitter or Facebook timeline which gets displayed on the side screen! Besides 3D content and internet connectivity, it has a built in WiFi, high efficiency LED backlight to reduce power consumption and bundle of other revolutionary features.

Price: From Rs. 13,990 to Rs. 3, 20,000 for screen sizes of 24 to 55 inches Where: Panasonic dealer stores across Delhi/NCR

October 2012|CityScan|69

electronic gadgets

Scan, seal and deliver in 3D Introducing to you the latest and coolest entrant in the HP’s portfolio – the HP TopShot LaserJet Pro M275. Now one can easily and quickly capture high-quality images of documents and 3-D objects for immediate use in presentations, marketing materials or directly web usage, all at the touch of a button.

Just place the object to be scanned on the surface and highquality optical lens and a high-resolution sensor in a unique elevated camera will capture the images for you. It’s for the jewelers and other shopkeepers who would want to quickly scan and send the image to their clients. A feature like scan to email gives them the option to scan and send it directly to the email addresses of their clients. With the burgeoning market of the ecommerce portals like Flipkart, Snapdeal etc, the product finds an absolute relevance for the buyers.

Price: Rs. 42,899 Where: HP dealer stores across Delhi/NCR

Harman International launches OnBeat Xtreme in India

The JBL OnBeat Xtreme is a stylized docking station that turns one’s iPad, iPhone or iPod Touch into a dynamic, room-filling stereo system. Whether connected via the rotating dock or across the room via bluetooth, this high-performance JBL system delivers high fidelity sound to movies, music, gaming and video calls. It can be used for hands-free calling through Apple’s Face Time or Skype and is perfect for video conference calls. An RF remote puts one in full control of system functions and music navigation from anywhere even in large rooms, and an AC power supply keeps your iOS devices charged when docked. With an optional composite video cable, the JBL OnBeat Xtreme can even send video content to your TV for the whole crowd to enjoy together. The JBL OnBeat Xtreme does it all while looking its best in an exclusive weave design to look dapper in any room.

Price: Rs. 24,990. Where: JBL lounges across Delhi/NCR

Wave system now more versatile and convenient

Bose has updated the iconic Bose Wave music system, combining the acclaimed audio performance and small size with more functionality and versatility. For radio listening, the Wave music system III now includes an improved FM/ AM tuner for clearer reception, and artist names and song titles provided by many broadcasters are now displayed on-screen. Convenience is improved with a new touch pad integrated on the top of each unit for simple on/off control or to snooze the alarm. With new dual alarms, owners can select separate wake-up times set to different sources and volumes. The system also offers a Bose link input for connection to optional accessories, the Wave Bluetooth adapter for streaming music wirelessly from a computer or bluetooth enabled device, the Wave connect kit for dock-and-play simplicity with an iPod or iPhone, and the Wave multi-CD changer for uninterrupted enjoyment.

Price: Rs. 34,763. Where: Bose, N-1 Connaught Place, New Delhi / Great India Place Mall, Noida / MGF Metropolitan Mall, Saket, New Delhi and other dealer stores across Delhi/ NCR

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October 2012|CityScan|71

discover market

New Bazaar on the block

meherchand market The lesser known Meherchand market is a star in the making, a place with a first impression so quaint, you might just overlook its budding vibe. Stop over for a while and you would get stumped by its candor. Dip in this latent luxe bazaar to find out what all it can offer you.

E

ver seen a market cum leisure hub in the making? If you want to witness the evolution firsthand, pay a visit to the one lane Meherchand market in Lodhi Colony.

An open market place with a lavish free parking space at both sides of the street, this uncanny bazaar which lies behind the Indian Habitat Centre has embraced proprietors of all sorts – from the ones who offer you raw and cold organic food to those who sell hand embroidered frame art. To make this on-paper ‘walk through the lane’ experience merrier, we take you to the places that are currently captivating the spotlight of this marketplace, such that it might just be the next Hauz Khas in the making, only a lot more laid back and composed!

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Carte du jour

It was a pleasant surprise to see that this market place, operating all seven days a week, literally has food to offer for every mood and time. Here’s a breakfast to dinner guide to make sure your stomach is never left unfilled while you’re on the go!

8:30 am Only a few would have known the delight of a bagel breakfast. Post a humble market onset with kinare wala stores, you would be invited by the Bagel’s Café, which found its place in the market this June itself.

A scrumptious enterprise of a Dutch blueberry and ham bagel and the Gouda cheese with egg Bagel’s Cafe the at e lady by the name of Lalita de Goerdon, thi oo sm ana ban this is her second outlet in the Capital and fourth in the country. Open as early as 8:30 in the morning, this is the best place to have a mouthful at the break of the day. The bagels on menu might be full of carbs, but then they give you the option of multigrain bagels anyway. Plus you can choose healthy spreads like the low fat cream cheese with herbs, although sometimes you just can’t help but go for syrupy jams and butter! On the menu is a lip smacking bagel fare of omelette and pizza bagels, sweet bagels, fish lovers’, meat lovers’ and veg lovers’ bagel sandwiches, bagel burgers, Dutch pancakes, homemade quiche pie, salads and a lot more. Don’t miss the most preferred breakfast omelette bagels with 11:30 am According to an article written the options of cheddar and Gouda way back in 1895 by a man named Guy Beringer, cheese, starting at a convenient price “By eliminating the need to get up early on Sunday, of Rs. 145. For the health conscious brunch would make life brighter for Saturday-night bagel lovers, the omelette bagels are carousers.”

Though a brilliant thought, one hardly gets available with four egg whites, all for the kind of food for brunch which doesn’t make you a diet price of Rs. 10 extra. Tongues feel heavy till lunch time.

This unique organic food in please! store – ‘Nourish Organics’ is one of those places where an extra bite following a lavish breakfast would not make you feel guilty. A recent entrant in the bazaar, it has interesting eating options including buckwheat pizzas with pumpkin and sunflower seeds for Rs. 175, detox broth for Rs. 100 and Tom kha soup for Rs. 175. Place in your basket delectable options like dates, hazelnuts, apricot, walnuts, figs, dehydrated apples, sesame, brown rice cookies, cranberry, muesli, oat, wheat, rice and barley flakes – all unrefined and organic! This concept of ready-to-eat raw and cold food is popular amongst foreigners and is fast catching up with the desi crowd too.

Seema Jindal Jajodia, Founder, Nourish Organics enjoys spending time at her store at Meherchand. According to her, the store is about “educating and guiding” customers in making healthy food choices. Describing the appeal of this destination, she stated, “It’s a quaint market, which takes you back to yester years where shop owners personally served and interacted with customers ensuring Organic food items on display at Nourish Organics. a personalised feel.”

October 2012|CityScan|73

discover market 2:30 pm The CMYK book shop, one of the first high-end stores of Meherchand, has come up with an urban theme restaurant in the market this January – Café at CMYK, serving Indian street food, continental and oriental cuisine. The interiors are vast and seating comfortable and distant, giving it an afternoon hangout feel. Through photographs and panoramas, the interiors offer fascinating trivia and facts about the architectural emergence of Delhi. The Mediterranean quinoa salad, reasonably priced at Rs 279 and the Malaysian bunkus fish for Rs. 379 is a must-eat. One can even carry back a pinch of the capital by means of appealing products and memorabilia kept on sale here, designed to commemorate 100 years of New Delhi as India’s capital.

An eye-catching event at the cafe is the cooking classes hosted on Saturdays where one can learn to cook continental, Thai and Burmese cuisine. They host occasional classes for kids too! Further on the list, is a pretty balcony with limited seating and the homemade jams and kumquat marmalades bottles you can take home.

5:30 pm – Fancy a dose of coffee in the evening, when a lot is bought and experienced and a bit still left? Spend time at Café Coffee Day, located at one end of the Meherchand track.

Located close to the same is another exotic eatery added this year itself – Kunafa. A self acclaimed concocted haven for middle-east sweets, Kunafa is like a sweet evening affair where one could go and try the Arabian delights prepared by their in-house Syrian and Jordanian chefs. These experts produce fifteen varieties of Backlava apart from other Mediterranean delicacies. Nikhil Anand, the director at Kunafa affirmed, “The food has caught up on the popularity list and hence we plan to launch Café Kunafa- a Lebanese bistro very soon.” Talking about the expansion of Meherchand, he says, “The market is picking up rapidly. We can observe a tremendous embassy crowd visiting. I won’t be surprised to see this place revamping into the next Khan Market within a year.”

The easy-going am bience of the CMYK bookstore and Cafe at CMYK

If you love cheese and are utterly hunting for a trusted place to shop, cure that shopping block and reach a sober looking shop - The Cheese Ball. You don’t get to see exclusive cheese shops that easily in other markets, and this store has delicious and distinctive cheeses to carry back home. Apart from the usual Indian favourite mozzarella, you can say cheese by trying the mouth watering cumin Gouda, red chilly Gouda, smoked scamorza, ricotta, cheese feta etc at this cheese gala.

9 pm A perfect snug dinner date requires a dim ambi-

ence with pretty lights and comfort food. Chez Nini, a French cuisine restaurant in Meherchand offers exactly the same ambience. With a token seating arrangement and a massive glowing tree, it promises to add a fresh flavour to your global Stuffed khir taste buds. If you’re having one di dates of those sullen days and want to be served food with care and affection, Nira Singh, the owner and chef of Chez Nini would act as your charming hostess. She has won many hearts by reaching out and being hospitable to all her guests individually, all Pistachio Mabroomeh at Kunafa in-between the food preparation!

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discover market

Desi shopping cart If you’ve started to think of Meherchand as a food destination, flip through further to acknowledge the shopping attractions which contribute to this market’s distinction.

For the ones who seek whimsical art in everyday life – If you

like the modern whacky and creative designer stuff for yourself and your homes, walk into this unconventional fashion art design store – Play Clan. Playing on the concept of ‘Indian memories in memorabilia’, their designers have produced all kinds of bits and pieces ranging from Rs. 85 (postcard) to Rs. 19,000 (hand embroidered frame art). They also offer quirky looking dresses, men clothing, lamps, crockery, cushion covers and resting chairs in outlandish designs. I was personally enthralled by their set of designer chairs costing Rs. 4995 each.

Another one of these arty outlets offering unusual Fun dress piece and designer chair inventive merchandise in Meherchand is ‘Crazy Daisy’. on display at Play Clan Their most popular buy are the wooden trays in all sizes, the large one priced at Rs 675. They the eateries, book-shop and arty boutiques to the home also sell plenty of ceramic items, paper mache and wooden painted products. furnishing and traditional women apparel stores I was Having personally observed a bargain about to visit next, Indian themes have been given their hunter being absolutely fascinated by their due prerogative. This place is therefore sprouting in the collection of mirrors, I suggest you not to most authentic of manner and focusing on touching a lose a chance of paying a visit yourself!

Delhiites spirit with its homely charm.

Subsequently, I was bemused to discover a kiddy boutique – Almirah. Stumped For the ones who favour the sober and ethnic look – While it simply to find that this children wear and bedding boutique alas had a novel Indian would be hasty to call it posh yet, niche indigenous fashion edge too! They sell the cutest possible garb, stores like Soma, Ruh, Ruchika Modi’s Katan Weaves, accessories and bedware for children. It came Suruchi Jaipur, Oomph Factory, Khadi Line and furnishupon me that most of what Meherchand has ing stores like Fab India Home, Cottons and Satins and n la C y la art at P in the offering works on a desi theme. From Hand embroidered frame Artisan Luxe are providing the market a pricey look.

Everything for kids at the Almirah store

Fabric work tray at Crazy Daisy October 2012|CityScan|75

Bedroom furnishing put up at the Soma Store

Suruchi Jaipur is a petite store offering hand block printed suit fabrics, quilts and sarees, while the Oomph Factory features prêt chic garb for men and women. Soma offers traditional clothing and accessories along with homeware section for your bedroom, kitchen and living room. They even sell miniature crafts.

Cottons and Satins again fabricates inimitable hand printed furnishing fabrics and interior products and Artisan Luxe reflects the best of Indian craftsmanship with pronounced fine detailing and quality. Opened this March, designer Ruchika Modi’s Katan Weaves can be termed as a silk saree viewing jaunt.

You would be won over by the prettiest sarees with strips of different shades woven together. Each saree has peculiar motifs and a background to tell. On being asked why Ruchika Modi, Director of Katan Weaves, chose Meherchand, she answered “This market has a very distinctive character.

Each store here has a different design philosophy. Since I wanted to be a part of this individualism, Meherchand was the best place to be!”

Home furnishing options at Artisan Luxe Heavy rugs in earthy colours at Artisan Luxe

The options for fabrics, colour schemes and designs across the stores appeared to be endless.

Interestingly, the crowd of lady customers gushing in did not seem to be the typical ‘pokerstraight hair and high heeled’ trend followers.

You would instead hit upon a relaxed crowd searching for distinctive fashion statements.

For the ones on a quest for mental nourishment

– The definite highlight on the lane rests post the Tantra tee store. In Meherchand since three years, the CMYK book shop is named in reference to the four inks used in color printing: cyan, magenta, yellow and key (black). Currently celebrating 100 years of Delhi (1911-2011), the USP of this bookstore is its collection of heavy coffee table books on interests ranging from art, design, photography, architecture, travel, lifestyle, food, cinema et al.

To market, to market!

The saree collection at Katan Weaves

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While on a look out, I appreciated the fact that this market, still in its adolescence, is not really competing with its chic neighbours Defence colony and Khan Market. It in fact is naively cultivating its own ethnicity at a balanced and brisk pace. The fervor and newness that this market oozes out definitely makes you want to come back.

The most exciting element about Meherchand is that it promises to have a little something new the next time I stopover. I would surely go back…

Shoppers at Meherchand There are several kinds of customers in a market – the loyalists, the discount seekers, the wanderers, impulsive buyers and more…

We legibly found a mix of people at Meherchand who were eating and chatting, searching and arguing, shopping leisurely or simply relaxing...

Devoted daytrippers

Spotted first was this relaxed couple, a thoughtful shopping companion cum husband Mrinal and a wellinformed and conversant wife Diksha.

Their Experiences: “I’ve been coming to this place since the last 4 years for this little electrical store, and always thought this location had great potential. And then suddenly so many fun stores spruced up! It’s a lesser known but a very homely market. Though you can see a lot of mending and repair work around, the experience of walking around here would sooner or later be better than at any mall,” says Diksha.

Says Mrinal, “We’ve been looking for small gifts and knick-knacks for our friends and that is why we have come here. There are many recent alternative stores we like, for instance Play Clan, Crazy Daisy and Suruchi Jaipur. We also love eating out at Chez Nini.

Tips and tip-offs: Mrinal speaks, “The best part is that you can visit it any-day any-time since it’s not crowded at all, as opposed to Khan Market which has a rush almost everyday and one has to drive around the parking space twice to find room.” Diksha adds, “I like Khan Market more for it cafes and I feel that Meherchand is one place that can work brilliantly on the concept of terrace cafes.”

The savvy client

Ever seen a suave sari-clad woman who treads her way effortlessly even on the most hectic day? We found a lady of the same kind, Geeta Uppal, at the Cottons & Satins furnishing outlet.

Her Experience: “I come to Meherchand at least once a month.

Apart from shopping, I come for business purposes. I think shopping can be an adventure here since the designer outlets here can be seen doing so much outof-the-box work.”

Tips and tip-offs: “If you want to buy stuff none of your friends would possibly have at their homes, Meherchand is the place. I’m here to buy some upholstery and have visited Cottons & Satins the second time. It suits my taste. Conversely, I wish there was some convenience to walk on the market passage. It’s definitely not a walker’s paradise!”

Quick bargain hunters

This adorable mother-son duo was picking up things at the CMYK book store when we approached them. On her way back from her son’s school, Sneha was on a quick look-out for things.

While the little lad Aditya tripped away shyly, Sneha, his charming mom spoke with us.

Their Experiences: “I don’t come to Meherchand that often. In fact I’ve visited this place after a very long time and realised much more has happened since my last visit which needs to be checked out. However, I enjoy hanging-out at the CMYK cafe. If I were not to take my son back home, I would have spent the entire evening strolling here.”

Tips and tip-offs: “It’s worth coming to CMYK for avid readers. The shop has very interesting art books and it’s got a nice vibe. Also, we just tried dumplings at Cafe at CMYK because my son likes them and they were quite nice.”

Mature explorers

It was fun having a dialogue with these gentlemen - General Vijay Kumar and Rahul Bedi, who were enjoying their share of bagels and a light afternoon chitchat at the Bagel's Cafe.

Their Experiences: “Meherchand is certainly a leisure late-afternoon jaunt because there’s not much traffic at this time and it’s very easy to reach here.

This is the first time we’re visiting this eatery and the experience has been satisfactory indeed,” says the witty and amusing Rahul Bedi. “I come to eat at a few restaurants here. Actually, some of the restaurants have closed and now there are new ones to discover.”

Tips and tip-offs: “Do come here for a lazy afternoon. Since this market has been seriously upgraded, it has become fairly trendy. Regulars at Khan Market, Defence Colony and South Extension have a nice close by option,” he suggests. u

By Varalika vij

October 2012|CityScan|77

style talk

There is something about her – the colours she plays with, the bohemian mannerisms, the melodramatic elements in her designs or maybe just her love for all things haphazard! Delhi, an ostensible slapdash of a city might seem disharmonious to an outsider, but only a true dilli-wala like Nida can understand the tranquil unification behind this very discord. Nida Mahmood suits the spirit of our foremost issue since her style meets street and street buzz is essentially what we cover! Browse further to know what this eccentric young designer has to share about the capital and more‌

nida Mahmood 78|CityScan|october 2012

style talk

Rapid Round Retail Therapy or Shopaholism: Retail therapy Comfort or style: Comfortable style One person you love to shop for: Myself!

Biggest shopaholic you’ve come across in your life:

A dear friend of mine who has to shop compulsively from each shop she visits.

I think that’s a bit too much!

Your latest buy: Some fantastic books on art and graphics for my work and another amazing book on the life and works of the legendary painter Salvador Dali.

What’s on your current shopping wish list? More shoes The next colour in vogue: Icy Tangerine Stuff which can never go out of fashion: A pair of plain zouave pants A must buy this season: For women-Peter Pan collared shirts and mullet shirts. For men – waist coats.

As children, we all have Most wanted shopping destination in Delhi: DLF Emporio, had shopping experiencVasant Kunj es with our families. Any

pleasant memories you have?

Shoe shopping was the most What makes Delhi the best shopping destination in the counenchanting time for me right try for you? from the time I was perhaps Delhi has an extensive variety of markets and malls for each kind as little as 2! I clearly reof buyer. There’s something for each taste and mood. member going gaga over my One market out here you love. What’s in that place that favourite pairs of shoes. All makes you want to go back?

I had to do is point at them I love the Hauz Khas Village and its vibe. The market is offbeat and they would be mine. and romantic with all the tiny lanes and fascinating shops. It Carrying oneself elegantly makes me feel like I’ve landed in an Enid Blyton village and over the day becomes the best part is that it is set against a beautiful monument. a task, especially in this Your comments on Delhi’s nightlife. Any place you prohectic metropolis. What pose? can one possibly do to look I’m not much of a night life person. However, I quite enjoy his/her finest throughout? the punk live music club – Blue Frog.

To begin with, one should Favourite eating hangouts in the city… always bear in mind the ocI am regular at the Olive Bar and Kitchen, Mehrauli, Punjab casion and time of the day to Grill and Mamagoto restaurant. dress for. Secondly, try to infuse We’d love to know about your latest collection… creativity in an outfit by mixing and matching and adding some interesting Named as ‘Psychedelic dreams of a butterfly generation’, elements. Accessorising is the key to make a simple looking outfit appear chic. this newest collection is inspired from dreams and reality You should particularly remember to never over dress. Further, working men interspersing on a hypnotic platform. and women usually don’t have time to dress up post work hours. So it works Akin to your work, any brand/designer you feel is well if one plans an outfit in such a manner that it can be taken from day to creating distinctive and rebellious merchandise?

I find Vivienne Westwood’s brand absolutely mind evening with a few minor changes like adding a clutch instead of that big office blowing. The patterns are to die for! bag or getting the makeup in place What’s next in your design palate?

What according to you makes an attire mundane?

Fashion clothes and accessories in acid shades of When an outfit lacks imagination, it becomes boring and mundane. For instance, tangerine, green, blue, yellow and fuchsia with a garment with very regular colours and combinations absolutely fails to evoke some neutral hues like beige, biscuit, clack and excitement. whites thrown in! u Upcoming trends in men/women fashion?

As told to Varalika vij 50’s fashion with a twist!

October 2012|CityScan|79

food menu

Pan-Asian potpourri

With its trademark anime décor, loose-collar ambience and spectacular takes on Thai and oriental cuisine, Mamagoto’s outlet in Select Citywalk delivers the restaurant’s brand of fun and fusion cuisine with aplomb.

I

t’s difficult to maintain complete objectivity while writing about a restaurant which you patronise regularly. Thankfully there is a distinction here: while this writer (along with a large number of regulars) frequents the Pan-Asian Mamagoto restaurant in the tony Khan Market practically every week, this write-up is about the eatery’s franchise at the Select Citywalk mall in Saket. With that out of the way right at the outset, and conscience-calmed (yet still unquestionably prejudiced) here’s my two-bit on why Mamagoto is the first name which pops up in my mind every time a dinner out in town is on the cards.

First Impressions

With hopes of not having to wait – we went without reservations, Mamagoto takes the last reservation at 8.20 pm. If you plan to get there later then you’ll just have to hope that you get a table. Our wishes were dashed by the evidence of milling crowds outside the restaurant. In fact it’s a double whammy because parking at the mall takes longer than it does at Khan Market. Nonetheless, a mall is not a bad place to wait, and after a short 20-minute whirl around the second floor of the mall (where the restaurant is located) we found ourselves ensconced in Mamagoto’s familiar wallpapered interiors. Why re-invent the wheel, the owners seem to have thought, and with good reason: the Japanese anime style décor and warm lighting, which work so well at the Khan Market outlet, create the same friendly, 80|CityScan|october 2012

food menu a table adjacent to ours. Just the sight of the juicy Canadian Pork ribs (Rs. 795) is enough to make any carnivore swoon. The New Zealand lamb chops (Rs. 995) were even better. But if you want to stick to what you know, then consider the Mamagoto Noreng – Mamagoto’s version of the classic Nasi Goreng. The humble Goreng – stir fried rice with sambal (traditional chilli sauce) embellished with chunks of fried egg and served with chicken satay skewers and peanut sauce makes an excellent meal for one person.

It’s in the bread and butter classics that the creativity of Mamagoto’s chefs is most apparent. For desserts, look no further than the homemade coconut ice cream (2 scoops for Rs. 135). It’s bursting with freshness and is the star of the dessert menu. Lastly, the quantities, while not quite what you get in a typical Indian restaurant, are adequate and do not leave you hungry for more.

Why Go? Mamagoto personified, is honest and layered – much like the food it serves. It’s got the basics covered – impeccable service standards, a place where your waitresses and hostesses are polite and helpful.

The gentleman at the door will offer you water as you wait (which you’ll inevitably have to if you don’t have a reservation). Fun, part of the name (Mamagoto means to play with food in Japanese), is reflected in the ambience, adding to the general bonhomie of the patrons. And most importantly, it’s a part of the food too – a rare example of a restaurant succeeding with its own renditions of

informal feel at Saket. Conversation, fun and food take centrestage at Mamagoto.

Starters, Mains & Dessert While best known for its Thai food, Mamagoto also serves Chinese, Indonesian, Japanese and Oriental. After much hand-wringing we decided to go with appetisers which we had not previously sampled – Rock Shrimp Tempura (Rs. 325), Water Chestnut spring rolls (Rs. 165) and spicy fried Calamari (Rs. 325) – for starters. Classic dishes all but came presented in ways that we had not seen before. The Calamari, in particular, was infused with flavours which are a bit fiery for the original dish but perfect for the Indian palate. These were washed down with the Passion Fruit and Orange cooler (Rs. 155) and the surprisingly refreshing cinnamon whisky story (Rs. 295) – an innovative blend of Jack Daniels’ cinnamon and sugar. We predict that the latter is going to be the cocktail to order with winter approaching.

The liquor selection is minimalistic – the emphasis is on the food here.

For vegans who aren’t afraid to experiment (or are calorie conscious) the Som Tam salad – a raw papaya salad with a tangy Thai dressing takes the cake – delicious and doesn’t weigh a stone once you’re finished. While pondering over the main course, we espied some items from the Robata Grill section making their way to

authentic cuisines – it’s fusion and it works. And to top it off, for the quality of the food served, the prices are downright reasonable.

Don’t take this reviewer’s word for it – check it out at Mamagoto, S-9, 2nd Floor, Select Citywalk Mall, Saket, New Delhi-110070.

Tel: +91-11-46545160. Reservations Required. u

by Meraj Shah October 2012|CityScan|81

food desserts

The French Connection

Through sheer word-of-mouth, L’ Opera has become the city’s most talked-about bakery. With a flagship store in the upscale Khan Market and smaller outlets in Select Citywalk and DLF Promenade Mall, this patisserie is the place to sample authentic French macaroons, breads, pastries, croissants and tarts.

T

he first time I heard about L’Opera, the discussion was about its prices – which are significantly higher than what you’re likely to encounter in any other bakery in town. It seemed, from a distant point of view, as one of those places which had opened up to cater to the growing community of expats in the city, and was dismissed with the typical “they don’t know better,” mindset.

Turns out, they do know better – at least their cakes, pastries and breads: and it takes only one visit to L’Opera’s outlet – whether you choose to go to the big patisserie in Khan Market, or either of the smaller ones in Select Citywalk or the DLF Promenade to know just how fine they are at their work. The miniscule L-shaped display across which sits a narrow counter with a few barstools at the bakery’s DLF Promenade counter is no more than a hole in the wall.

Yet its size belies the attention it gets: people crammed in the little outlet are, for lack of a better word, gawking. That’s how good the rows of macaroons (in pink, green, golden and brown), mile feuille, and the array of fruit tarts, lemon tarts, éclairs and mirabelle look.

This is about the time that the visual and olfactory senses domineer over any trepidation and common sense crumples up and dies: you want to taste everything (and pack and take home what you can’t!)

I started with a gorgeous salmon quiche (Rs. 245) and followed that up with a gushing cheese croissant (Rs. 195) before wolfing down a delectable Danish pastry (Rs. 85) and the beautiful lemon tart Rs. 195) for dessert. The desserts were spectacular simply because, unlike a lot of other bakeries, neither was greasy or saccharine sweet. Even the tea, which came from a humble tea bag, was as good as it’s possible for a tea-bag tea to be.

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food desserts L’Opera’s top-notch authenticity flows directly from its owner founder – Laurent Samandari – who first thought of opening a bakery when he came to India for an internship a few years back, and missed, as only the French do, pastries and breads from home.

Needless to say the bakery’s products are made strictly according to French techniques and there is no fusion or watering down of the recipes to suit the Indian palate. And go-

ing by the response, Indians don’t seem to mind that at all. In fact my companion on this trip, who has spent a year studying in France, remarked how similar L’Opera is to little cosy Parisian bakeries.

Besides the usual sweet treats L’Opéra also has savoury items on the menu (including the must-try tarts!) and a decadent selection of cakes. Home delivery is available (minimum order Rs. 2000) and the patisserie can also cater for functions.

The damages came in the vicinity of Rs. 1000 – admittedly much more than what you’d spend at your friendly neighbourhood baker. But the difference in fare is much more than the difference in what it costs. L’Opera’s goodies, including the fabulous breads, are in a different league from what is available at commercial bakeries.

The sheer indulgence is worth every penny. u

by Meraj Shah

L’Opera DLF Promenade (Second Floor), Vasant Kunj. Open every day from 10 am to 10 pm.

Select CityWalk, Saket (Shop G-47, by Entrance C). Open every day from 10 am to 11 pm.

Galleria Market, Gurgaon (Shop SG 022).

Open every day from 8 am to 8:30 pm.

Home Delivery Phone: +91 120 4066 888. Timings 9:30 am to 5:30 pm. Monday to Saturday E-mail: contact@frenchbakery.in (24 to 48 hours notice required in-advance)

October 2012|CityScan|83

delhi belly

The Capital has a penchant for cooking up good food. Here’s presenting an assortment of signature dishes from the city’s gastronomic landscape.

Ice-cream alert at Häagen-Dazs

The term ‘Death by Chocolate’ ought to have transpired from the sinful spread of Belgium ice cream available at Haagen Dazs. The upbeat, premium ice-cream place churns out unbelievable sorbets, cakes, scoops, specialty shakes, smoothies and sundaes. We sampled their signature lustrous spread of waffles soaked in abundant scoops of finest, hand-crafted Belgium ice-cream and drooled over it. The dark chocolate ice-cream is whipped with such finesse that when biting into it you silently offer a little thank you prayer to the person who decided to bring this American chain to India, or more precisely to Select Citywalk, New Delhi. Its premium quality comes with a price. The signature dish set us back by Rs 600. Indeed, a little steep for a plateful of ice-cream. But given how the place celebrates icecream and the spreads bliss – we are not complaining! › Terminal 3, Indira Gandhi International Airport › G-32 - 34, Select CITYWALK, Saket, New Delhi, 011 49535567/68

Flip over pizzas at Amici Café

In a mall full of many eateries, Amici manages to hold its own. Its cutting-edge look sets the café apart. The whiff of fresh coffee brewing alongside the rustic fiery scent of the wood fired oven is all very inviting. Even on weekdays, the place bustles with ladies exchanging pleasantries over an assortment of delicious quick bites. The friendly staff is quick to tell you how their Farmer’s Favourite Veggie Pizza, Rs 396, happens to be a unanimous choice for all Amici-lovers. And they are quite right. We devoured our wood-fired, thin crust pizza with absolute joy. The generous sprinkle of veggies coupled with the freshness of ingredients explains the constant buzz. Watch out for Amici Pronto on the ground floor at Select Citywalk for cookies, muffins and their frozen yoghurt – Froyo. › F-48A, Select CITYWALK , Saket, New Delhi, 011 41041468 › 47, Middle Lane, Khan Market, New Delhi, 011 43587191/93

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food zone

Some more dimsums at Chi Bar and Kitchen

Enter Chi Bar and Kitchen at Select CITYWALK, and the dim glow emanating from the lanterns above the table greets you. A fusion of different flavours, the place is known for Asian and oriental fare. We tried dimsums with wholesome chicken filling and thin flour coating, along with a crispy veg spread which is made for good munching. The sauces make for great accompaniments. Do sample their chilly garlic sauce, onion coriander dip and ginger dip. We were pleasantly surprised to know that Chi Bar and Kitchen offers pizzas as well. And they are named after cult films—Pulp Fiction, Good Fellas, The God’s Must Be Crazy and what not. Their signature dish: Chicken and Coriander Dimsums is priced at Rs 330. › C-1, Commercial Complex, Opposite IIT, SDA, New Delhi , 011 46508753 › G-70, Ground Floor, Select CITYWALK , Saket, New Delhi , 011 40566919

Ice gola at Snobiz

Think of the good old gola with an American twist. Snobiz at Select Citywalk, Saket is a wow addition to its foodie landscape. This place doles out unthinkable forms of ice smothered in yummy flavours. The quirky, little outlet has everything going right for its setting. The blue colour stands out; the miniature ice-cones catch all the attention. We tried the Blueberry Shave Ice and are definitely going back for more. They offer a range of ice wonders. Our Shave Ice was priced at Rs 78. › Select CITYWALK, Saket, New Delhi, 9818385838 October 2012|CityScan|85

Turf through Truffles Pistachio at Chokola

An entire place dedicated to the love of many lives: chocolate. Chokola at Ambience Mall, Gurgaon presents chocolates in myriad avatars. There are tiny pieces, large slabs, all sitting pretty in glass shelves. Good news for the health conscious—Chockola also offers pure dark chocolate of premium quality. Their signature dish Truffles Pistachio: a mound of delectable chocolate with that unmistakable zany touch is priced at Rs 60 a piece. These chocolate boutiques feature finely crafted, handmade artisan chocolates.

Chokola is known for its signature selection of confectionery and fresh bakery. Also watch out for customized, jaw-dropping cakes the place bakes on request. › 114A, DLF Promenade, Vasant Kunj, New Delhi , 011 41007523 › G-22B, Select CITYWALK , Saket, Delhi , 011 41042853 › 36, Khan Market, New Delhi, 011 41757571

Binge on Chicken Tikka Roll at Khan Chacha

Now this is one place where the glitterati as well as the not-so-famous gather to binge on good food. Khan Chacha at Khan Market has been revered for cooking up a storm with their delicious kebabs, rolls and tikkas.

Here, its the knowledge and experience that does the talking; the perfect masalas, the oozing flavours speak volumes about the art of fine cooking at Khan Chacha. The humble owners make no noise about having the famous devour their goodies. Their signature dish – chicken tikka roomali roll, priced at Rs 130 is delicious and a big hit with the crowd that rushes in everyday. › 50, Middle Lane, Khan Market, New Delhi, 011 24633242 › D-3, Inner Circle, Connaught Place, New Delhi 011 43036111 › G-3, Ground Floor, Select CITYWALK, Saket, New Delhi 91 9810804114 86|CityScan|october 2012

food zone

Relish Chicken Salantro at Cocoa by Belgique

After a long, hard day if you want to leave it to some music and a couple of drinks, Cocoa by Belgique is the place to be. The music rolls on nonstop and the lively mood takes on you almost instantly. Their signature dish, the staff insists is Chicken Salantro. Priced at Rs 300 the dish comes along with colourful veggies by the side of the chicken. Also, look out for pastas drenched in a number of sauces here. The fare is continental plus Italian and offers a number of cocktails as well. › G-37, Select CITYWALK , Saket, New Delhi, 011 42658279/81 › 7-8, Ground Floor, Pacific Mall, Tagore Garden, New Delhi , 011 45733056

Rolls smothered in cream at Cinnabon

Cinnabon, an American chain of baked delights, doles out an array of desserts with that special touch. Its absolute must-try is Cinnabon Classic: a warm, gooey roll soaked in layers of sinful cheese cream filling. Now, there’s nothing quite like this dessert on a rotten day. We assure you that within minutes of lapping up this divine roll, your mood will go back to its cheery self. And the taste just lingers on, all for a price of Rs 100. Also on offer are a range of sandwiches; the hummus salad and tuna are preferred choices. We visited the outlet at DLF Promenade Mall, Vasant Kunj and were happy to have been served so well. › Ground Floor, DLF Promenade, Vasant Kunj, New Delhi , 011 46105147 › F-62, Select CITYWALK , Saket, New Delhi, 011 41026684 › FF-24, Pacific Mall, Tagore Garden, New Delhi , 011 45390885 u

by Chesta Wadhwani Trehan October 2012|CityScan|87

The coffee is freshly ground, freshly brewed and freshly served. If it is not used within 18 minutes, the coffee is discarded and a new carafe is freshly brewed America's popular all-day, everyday stop for coffee and baked goods, Dunkin Donuts, comes to town!

A donut and coffee retailer founded in 1950 by William Rosenberg, it started focusing on donuts and other baked goods. However, today over half of its business comes from coffee sales making the famous Starbucks its competitor.

Dunkin’ Donuts is committed to providing guests with the best-tasting, high-quality food and beverages.

To meet that commitment, they have assembled a culinary dream team of acclaimed chefs to create new and innovative menu choices to meet the evolving needs of Dunkin’ Donuts‘ busy, on-the-go customers.

Today, it is a market leader in the regular/decaf coffee, iced coffee, hot flavoured coffee, donut, bagel and muffin categories. There are more than 10,000 Dunkin’ Donuts restaurants in 32 countries.

It serves over 5 million customers per day worldwide. More than 1.5 billion cups of hot and iced coffee sold globally every year. Ensuring only the best for their customers, Dunkin’ Donuts coffee is freshly ground, freshly brewed and freshly served. If it is not used within 18 minutes, the coffee is discarded and a new carafe is freshly brewed.

Launched in India by Jubilant Foodworks Ltd. (JKL), the brand name in India has the sign of “Dunkin’ Donuts & More” to signify a wide product range and the unique experiences that the restaurants offer. Dunkin’ Donuts occupies the sweet spot in between cafés and quick service restaurants, as it offers elements of both. A great all day menu of food and a wide range of beverages, along with a chilled out, modern and relaxed environment.

The menu features a range of donuts, Dunkin’ Donuts Original Blend drip coffee; espresso based beverages, as well as a delectable range of sandwiches made out of artisan breads such as focaccia, croissants, ciabatta, bagels. The beverage menu has also been expanded with fruit milkshakes, smoothies and tea catering to the Indian taste preferences. So pick your cup and your favourite donut and experience the finest menu coming straight from Massachusetts. where: N-6, Connaught Place, New Delhi, 011-41523636 / M-19, Greater Kailash Part 1, New Delhi, 91 9213027252 / 309, DLF Place, Saket, New Delhi, 011-4100 9215

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October 2012|CityScan|89

Beauty indulgences

children trends

Now even for the little ones!

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ringing with envy is all you can do when you see a fancy tot waddle by at an up-market place.

Gleaming with an effervescent juvenile zest, kiddies in this day and age are all glossy and mindful of their appearances. Innocence, we guess should adapt a modern definition! Taking note of this trend, Praneeta Kumar Shringi, proprietor of Fuzzyhare, formulated the concept of a colourful and bubbly salon to pamper little lasses and lads in com-

pany of their mommies and daddies. Having launched its first salon last September in Ambience Mall, Vasant Kunj with just haircuts, the concept has now grown to provide services like manicures, pedicures for those little hands and feet, hair plaiting, massages, make-up and even theme birthday parties!

The ambience of this kid parlour makes one feel animated.

The specially designed barber chairs in the shape of a car is deemed to excite a child’s sensibilities. Wearing cool capes, young brats can leisurely sit on one of these toy car chairs and catch up on their favourite animation on the LCD’s attached right in front of them!

And there’s no dearth of hair styles. While the girls can get a Rihanna flick, boys can acquire a Harry Potter hair-do. There are other hair services named adorably as mushroom, crew, buzz, bed head, easter egg for boys and Dora, Bobby, Jennifer, Miley, Spicey Posh, Gaga Bangs for girls. Since the fairer sex always wants more, regardless of age, your little angels also have 90|CityScan|october 2012

the options for colour and glitter hair spray besides plaiting in Rapunzel, Paris and heart styles.

Who could imagine customized nail art for kids! This salon can make your nails visible in the dark with their amusing glow-in-the-dark nail paints. It was fun to spot those divas-in-the-making

fastfacts Party Themes for Girls Princess, Diva or Angel Party Services include – Nail art and hair styling for all guests with braids and fancy accessories, Tiaras, wands and fairy wings for all girls, customised theme photograph amongst other vivacious surprises.

Package Deal: 800 per child.

Party Themes for Boys Moustache, Pirate and Devil Party Services include – Hair styling for all the guests, different shapes of moustaches, bandanas and moles for the little blokes, customised theme photograph and much more!

Package Deal: 600 per child.

They can craft and plan other theme parties like the Animal Farm party, Masquerade party, Hawaiian party, Rock star party etc.

Contact 011-40870030 for reservations. Open seven days a week.

getting cartoons drawn on their nails while being leisurely assembled on a wonderful piano shaped nail bar. Other services on the girl’s desired list are the feather nail extensions and hair sparkles stuck with the help of their freaky quick gem guns.

But while you develop understandable apprehensions regarding the safety of your infant’s vulnerable skin, Praneeta assures, “We use all kid friendly products. Following a child’s manicure, we use mud based alcohol-free nail paints. The soaps used in the process are all antibacterial. The equipments used are sanitized to perfection”. With children as little as two years of age jumping in, Praneeta like a true host is perpetually occupied mothering and tending to their needs.

Just like a kid’s world is made up of all things sugar and spicy, so is this kid salon. On one end of the salon, you would locate little chairs and tables’ along with drawing and activity books where children can bustle about. There are other things your little monsters can hop on like the huge Cinderella shoe sofa kept at the centre! Fuzzyhare boasts of a petite accessory shop too.

Praneeta emphasises, “I want each salon visit to become a terrific experience for both mums and their little ones. So while the kids make merry, mothers can pamper themselves with a wide range of skin care and other essential beauty services.”

Another feature added to this concept is theme birthday parties. It’ll be a dream-come-true for the kids as they all would get beauty treatments at the parlour while enjoying the bash.

Fuzzyhare gives you a card benefit on hosting a party at its premises after which the customer can avail a 10% discount on all the services for a lifetime. Ordinarily, the cost of their membership card is Rs. 1500.

Wish we were blessed with the same riches in our day and age! u by varalika vij

October 2012|CityScan|91

children trends

Doll in Dior

Dior has recently released a new charming doll with three exquisite Dior dresses and a luxurious little cardboard playhouse/dressing room. The sweet doll has curled hair, a friendly face and moveable limbs, and her bright blue eyes close when she lies down to take a nap. The dresses are made from cotton and silk with Dior plaques, and come with matching ribbons that can be tied around her waist as a belt or on her hair. The doll wears little white pants, ballerinas and socks. The magnanimous price is justified considering this doll that would surely need her designer clothes dry cleaned!

Price: Rs. 41,300. where: Les Petits, DLF Emporio, Vasant Kunj, New Delhi

Tailor your Barbie doll

Little girls can now explore their creativity with ‘Barbie Loves Glitter Glam Vaccum and Doll’ set that allows them to create custom glitter designs on outfits and accessories. Girls can also create matching glitter designs for their own clothes and even customize their own glitter colours and store them in an extra gem case.

This exciting pack includes your very own Barbie doll along with a glitter glam vaccum tool, 3 double-sided sticker sheets, 2 pouches of coloured glitter (pink & purple), extra fashion, gem glitter storage case, scoop tool, purse, shoes and necklace.

Is your baby

designer fed?

Don’t let designer luxury stop at your little one’s clothes! Fendi has given a designer makeover to the feeding times. Keep this handy sized bottle close and give your baby the most stylish start. This deluxe 250 ml plastic bottle comes in a stylish brown Zucca print holder with carry strap and has a rounded silicone cherry teat.

The bottle holder is lined with a thermal lining to keep milk cold or warm. What’s more, the bright yellow Fendi branded box makes it a perfect gift item.

Price: Rs. 10,900. where: Les Petits, DLF Emporio, Vasant Kunj, New Delhi

Price: Rs. 1199. where: Shoppers stop, Pantaloons and Lifestyle stores across Delhi/ NCR

Clown around with colours

Chalk and Chuckles launched the thrilling ‘Jack in the Box’ game in the 6th Toy Biz International, 2012. A colourful dice game, this gets players to roll the coloured dice and build the longest jack in the box. Each player starts with opting for a box.

The youngest player rolls the coloured dice. She/he matches the colour on the dice with a spring of the same colour and places it on his/her box. The next player does the same. The aim is to build the longest jack. This game encourages motor skills, colour matching and recognition, sequencing, vocabulary and socio-emotional skills.

Children can also make your own rules and have free play, promoting inventiveness and imagination!

Price: Rs. 249. where: Gift Palace (Khan Market), Spell and Bound (Saket, Safdarjung), Watermelon (DLF Saket) 92|CityScan|october 2012

October 2012|CityScan|93

time out movies

Premium viewing in a premium setting The PVR Director’s Cut is as much about luxury, as it is about discernment in cinema. And the premium multiplex tries to straddle both by showing blockbusters, as well as rare documentaries which you’d be hard pressed to find in a theatre.

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nless you’re looking for it, chances are that you’ll miss the PVR Director’s Cut multiplex tucked away in a corner of top floor at the Ambience Mall in Vasant Kunj. Dwarfed by the very popular food court, the premium multiplex is marked by a small entrance with a café spilling out on the main floor of the mall. Enter, though, and you’ll be surprised by the cavernous space which opens up to reveal a book shop (which also has film memorabilia and DVDs for sale), a fine dining restaurant and four 3D-enabled halls – with seating varying from 25 to 108 seats – comfortably. It’s what Ajay Bijli has referred to as the “fulllength experience” and it begins with the overall theme which is inspired, not surprisingly by some of the greatest directors in the history of cinema – autographed photographs of directors like Akira Kurosawa and Jean Luc Godard adorn the walls.

The Luxury Quotient No question about it. From the moment you enter any of the halls – it’s apparent that the Director’s Cut is in a different league from PVR’s regular fare – even the premium gold class in its regular cineplexes. In an ambience strikingly similar to business-class lounges at international airports, the biggest seats, nay recliners, that you’re ever likely to see inside a cinema hall, the fairly extensive (by cinema standards) full-scale menu (which includes drinks, main courses and desserts), and the attached fine dining restaurant where you can stop by for a meal to discuss the movie with other patrons – the Director’s Cut is unabashedly 94|CityScan|october 2012

time out movies Why Director’s Cut? On the whole, the Director’s Cut is definitely something every movie-buff ought to experience.

First off, there is nothing like being able to watch a film in the premium cineplex’s lazboys which gives the moviegoer unparalleled comfort. For the movie buff, the additional draws are the Director’s Rare screenings as well as the interesting film memorabilia at the lounge store which is surprisingly very affordably priced. For the gastronome, there is the fine dining experience hitherto not experienced in any cinema in the country. And lastly there’s the exclusivity and accompanying privacy: the Director’s Cut has none of the long lines, or the milling crowds which you’re used to seeing at cinemas, especially on weekends.

The tickets are more easily available, and you won’t have to book days in advance. Whether you choose to go back every Sunday depends on how much you’re enamoured with the trappings, and realistically on how much you’re willing to about giving patrons an unadulterated luxury experience. The restaurant splash out on a movie. Not a bad idea for a date is under renovation currently and slated to reopen shortly. either – except that the super-wide recliners mean Director’s Cut? you can’t really reach over comfortably to talk to The name, it has to be said, is a trite misleading. Literally speaking, each other. Or not, the Director’s Cut is probably ‘Director’s Cut,’ implies a rush of the also the best option if you just want to go catch a film which is untouched by censors movie all by yourself. and represents the director’s vision of

fastfacts

If you’re going to PVR Director’s Cut then you’ve got to be prepared to dish out much more than usual for your weekly movie outing. It would have been a good gesture to give a complimentary popcorn-coke combo but that’s not the case.

Here’s a snapshot of what a typical outing to the Director’s Cut will cost you ticketsA Rs 1050 (weekends); Rs 850 (weekdays) PopcornE Rs 120 (salted); Rs 215 (Caramel) sandwitches & puffsA Rs 150-200 SaladsE Rs 180-200 drinksE Rs 35-150 ( Cold Coffee Rs 120)

a film. That’s sadly not the case and you will see the same version of the film which is being screened elsewhere. What you do have the opportunity of seeing at Director’s Cut though – and this will be of special interest to cinema enthusiasts – are rare documentaries, vintage classics and other masterpieces under the ‘Director’s Rare’ label. One of the four halls is routinely delegated for these ‘Director’s Rare’ screenings which are held twice or thrice a week.

Premium Pricing The Director’s Cut is targeted at people who do not mind paying for exclusivity. There’s no question that it is exorbitant – almost thrice of what you’d pay for a ticket in regular multiplex cinemas.

Tickets cost Rs. 1050 on weekends and Rs. 850 on weekdays. If like this writer, you book online, then be prepared to pay an additional convenience charge. Two tickets on the weekend cost a grand total of Rs. 2212 – not a trifling sum for a weekend movie. A word of caution here, the PVR Director’s cut website can be a bit dodgy. Not a good idea to proceed with the booking if you find the site getting stuck on the payment pages. This writer had to book twice after the first time the tickets did not get booked inspite of the money being debited. The refund is still awaited.

The food and wine buffet is excellent and works out in the vicinity of about Rs. 1000 per head.

In fact one of the best parts of catching a movie at the Director’s Cut is that you walk back into the lounge after the movie is over (rather than some remote corner of the mall) and can stop by for meal and a discussion on the movie. The in-theatre menu is overpriced and best avoided – even the popcorn isn’t spectacular, which frankly you’d expect after paying top dollar. u

by Meraj Shah October 2012|CityScan|95

duty free

Single Malt Mall

The Delhi Duty Free offers speciality area - the Uisge Beatha, pronounced as ISHKA–BAHA that offers the best of malts from around the world including Scotland. First introduced at the ARI shops in Cyprus, Uisge Beatha is an award winning malt winning concept giving the travellers an opportunity to taste different malts and get highly specialist advice. The most expensive single malt available is The Balvenie 40YO in 70cl bottle priced at $4,100.00.

New Products Product description Chieftains Inchgower 29YO 70CL Chieftains Miltonduff 25YO 70CL Chieftains Blair Athol 25 YO 70CL Chieftains Bunnahabhain 26YO 70CL Chieftains Teaninch 30YO 70CL Monkey Shoulder 100CL 100CL Shui Jing Fang The Wellbay 52% 75CL Shui Jing Fang Scholars Edtn 100CL Shui Jing Fang Forest Green 50CL Royal Salute 21 YO Diamond Jub 70CL JW Odyssey 70CL

96|CityScan|october 2012

Category/Sub-category Malts Malts Malts Malts Malts Blended Whisky Premium White Spirits Premium White Spirits Premium White Spirits Blended Whisky Blended Whisky

Size 70cl 70cl 70cl 70cl 70cl 100cl 75cl 100cl 50cl 70cl 70cl

RSP (US$) 275 200 200 220 300 41 122 264 218 175 990

October 2012|CityScan|97

don’t miss

Formula 1 fury in Noida this October

While the memories of cricket legend Sachin Tendulkar waving the chequered flag to welcome Sebastial Vettel (first F1 Indian Grand Prix winner) are still afresh, the Buddh International Circuit (BIC) in Noida is ready yet again to host the second Formula 1 frenzy in India. The action-packed event (October 26, 27, 28, 2012) would offer a variety of entertainment programmes and shopping of BIC and F1 teams merchandise. These leisure events would happen at the F1 village, which will be arranged at the back of the main grand stand. Practice and qualifying sessions would take place on the first two days of the event, with the Grand Prix following on Sunday. The race distance would be 307.249 kms and the challenging laps would be 60 in number. The minimum damages one would incur for the threeday event would be Rs. 3000 for the picnic/natural stand. Further, the classic stand, star stand, premium stand (north/south) and the main grand stand are available at Rs. 7000, Rs. 7500, Rs. 10,000 and Rs. 21,000 respectively. Tickets and information on location of stands, ticket slabs, shuttle services, parking charges etc are obtainable at BookMyShow.com and jaypeesports.com. Any bets on who’s going to break the 1:27.249 lap record of Vettel?

Where: Buddh International Circuit (BIC), Greater Noida

Carnival for theatre buffs

If you’re one of those who are fascinated by the magic of the stage, be a part of the Old World Theatre Festival (OWTF) at the Indian Habitat Centre, New Delhi from 11–21 October, 2012. In its 11th year, the OWTF is fulfilling its commitment towards the audiences by presenting the best of the plays – opening with the premier of Mahesh Dattani’s new play – Where did I leave my Purdah? directed by the veteran Indian actress Lillette Dubey. Nandita Das would be making a directorial debut in theatre with ‘Between the Lines’. Other plays are- ‘The Bureaucrat- A Comedy’ by Anuvab Pal, directed by Rahul da Cunha; ‘Nothing Like Lear’, a devised performance based on Shakespeare’s King Lear, directed by Rajat Kapoor; ‘Chinese Coffee’ d i re c te d by Da n i sh Husain, and ‘Konark’ directed by Ramchandar Singh. There would be an on-stage treat with performances by Anu Menon, Soni Razdan, Na nd ita Da s, L i l le te Dubey and others. Tickets are available from Oct 1st on BookMyShow.com and at the IHC premises.

Where: Indian Habitat Centre, Lodhi Road, New Delhi 98|CityScan|october 2012

Display of art feats at the 6th Delhi International Arts Festival

The 6th edition of Delhi International Arts Festival (DIAF) is underway to bring an artistic resonance you would remember for a long time to come. A plethora of art forms – from classical, fusion, world to contemporary music and dance, both Indian and western; contemporary theatre, cinema festivals on artistes, literature and Delhi, visual arts, comedy, puppetry, the DIAF would surely be a hectic affair from October 26 to November 10. Happening at various places around Delhi, the list of performances include Sufi music (Indian, Pakistani, Iranian and Turkish) concert in Purana Qila, Jazz (Italian and India) concert at FICCI Auditorium, violin performance by Canadian, Belgium and Indian men at Stein auditorium, puppetry by a Czech expert and more! The DIAF basically aspires to bring to India an unsurpassed fusion of enthralling performances by Indian and International artists. Generating a fan list of millions in its very first year; the DIAF is a recommended activity for those who want to create a healthy global perspective on aesthetics and art in the city.

Where: Various locations around Delhi.

For more information visit www.diaf.in

October 2012|CityScan|99

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