Luxury Life & Style January 2018|Rs100
Luxe Cars 2018
Vroom Vroom to the hottest wheels this Year
Beyond Bali
Experience the royal life at Bvlgari, St. Regis and more
Narain Karthikeyan Racing Forward
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January 2018
EDITOR'S
NOTE
A
s we bring in the New Year, the word that comes to mind is resolutions. Most of us start the year with some new year resolution or the other.
We also find that after a couple of days into the year we lose focus and don't stick to the resolution. I'm here to tell you that is okay. It's okay to find a new discipline challenging. The important part is that we shouldn't give up. Successful resolutions are not one big step but lots of little steps and victories along the way. So start the new year with a plan, a goal, something to work towards. Set your heart, mind and very existence to work towards it. But, don't be disappointed if at times you lose your way. Love yourself enough to say that it's okay and find the way back towards your goal. Let 2018 be the year of magic and miracles for us all. Wishing my readers a Happy New Year.
Rohini Manian Editor-in-Chief rohini@globaladjustments.com
January 2018
3
INBOX I admire your decor stories and I wait to see what's in store each month. Last month's article on Scandinavian interiors was informative and
is online: www.culturamaliving.com www.issuu.com www.magzter.com
appealing to the eyes. I would never have thought that minimal and white interiors would look this great. Flavie Esper, Nantes I read your magazine online and I wanted to share a
To subscribe to this magazine, e-mail culturamaliving@globaladjustments.com
feedback. Though I enjoyed reading the November edition, I was a little disappointed that you failed to include Sula Vineyards in your Wine article. I would have enjoyed reading about it, especially since it's closer home. Leela Dutta, Hyderabad Congratulations on the successful launch party. I really loved the truffle story and would like to read more about unique travelogues, secret food ingredients and a story on Antarctic expedition or a trip to Greenland.
Luxury Life & Style January 2018|Rs100
Luxe Cars 2018
Vroom Vroom to the hottest wheels this Year
Beyond Bali
Experience the royal life at Bvlgari, St. Regis and more
NARAIN KARTHIKEYAN RACING FORWARD
Jennifer Kumar, Ontario Rohini Manian
Editor-in-Chief
DEEPA KALUKURI managing Editor Anupama arvinD vice president – business strategy Paneer selvam business head Prem Kumar Creative Head |
Ankita s Graphic designer
V Ramkumar vice president – Finance P DEVARAJ CIRCULATION dr. marshall goldsmith | DEEPTI AKKI | DEVANSHI MODy| | Antara kothari | Jane kataria | liliana silva | | Zainab khan | suraksha bhatla acharya | Contributors Chennai (Headquarters) 5, 3rd Main Road, R A Puram, Chennai – 600028 Telefax +91-44-24617902 E-mail culturamaliving@globaladjustments.com Bengaluru No 333/1, 1st Floor , 9th Main , 14th cross, 2nd stage, Indiranagar,
Published and owned by Rohini manian at #5, 3rd Main Road, Raja Annamalai Puram, Chennai – 600028, and printed by K Srinivasan of Srikals Graphics Pvt
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INSIDE
this issue 14
Racing to the Future
24
Pick, Click, Chic!
Narain Karthikeyan gets candid!
Luxury is a click away.
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Wheelin g Away
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to 2018
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Indonesia, Intimately Explore the most luxurious stays.
2018! Fashion, YoeruYo&u. New Welcome the
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'Kid'ding with Nature Encourage natural development in children.
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January 2018
Tarun Tahiliani
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Get to know the master of modern fashion.
January 2018
13
Small Talk
Racing
to the future He inherited speed and a passion for racing from his father. Narain Karthikeyan made us proud when he became the first Indian to have been a Formula One driver. From conquering the racetrack and receiving the honour of Padma Shri, Narain is now all set to venture into the business world. As he continues to charm us on the race track, he speaks to Rohini Manian about his future plans of making it as a successful businessman.
Photography: Kunal Daswani |
Styling: Ekta Nahar, Studio 9696 |
Location Courtesy: Park Hyatt, Chennai 14
January 2018
Make up & Hair: Sam, Page 3
January 2018
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Small Talk
O
n a sunny morning in Chennai, Narain gears up to shoot our cover and being in front of the camera comes naturally to him. Having had the privilege of knowing Narain Anna growing up, it's a proud
experience for me to interview him as he gets candid about his life and shares details which his fans never knew about him.
I was lucky enough to be born in a motorsport
How did racing happen to you? I was lucky enough to be born in a motorsport family, surrounded by people who were passionate about it and built Indian motorsport to what it is today. My dad is a multiple national rally champion, my late uncle S. Karivardhan designed and conceptualised India’s first single-seater – the FISSME powered by a 800cc Maruti engine.
family,
My cousin J. Anand is one of the fastest drivers I’ve known, and a
surrounded
edge Formula 2000 cars for MRF Challenge among other things. With
by people who were passionate about car
successful race car constructor as well – manufacturing the cuttingsuch an environment around me, it wasn’t hard to be inspired and drawn to the charm of motor racing. “You’re called the fastest Indian in the world”, what is the fastest speed you’ve driven at?” Surely in a Formula 1 car I would have done in excess of
racing and
360 kmph.
built Indian
How do your parents feel about your racing career?
motorsport to what it is today
They’re obviously proud about my achievements, but they had to sacrifice a lot to ensure I get to the top. I have been travelling all over the world ever since I was 16 – which can be nerve-wracking for any parent. What are the changes you’ve seen in racing as a sport from the beginning of your career until now? How has it evolved? I think the cars have obviously become more advanced and sophisticated with evolution in technology but I think the most advancement has happened in the area of safety. In recent times, you often see drivers walking away from a 300 kmph crash – which wasn’t the case not so long ago. FIA initiatives and manufacturers have done a lot towards safety and reducing fatality. Obviously it is still a dangerous sport, as Jules Bianchi’s sad demise in Japan a few years ago continues to remind us. If you weren’t a racer what would you want to be? Probably a fighter pilot. How do you spend your free time? I like travelling to Coonoor and relaxing.
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January 2018
Small Talk
I have been travelling all over the world ever since I was 16 – which Suit: His Studio, Chennai Shirt: Studio 9696
can be nervewracking for any parent. January 2018
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Small Talk
How did you meet your wife Pavarna? I met her in a elevator! How has fatherhood changed you? I value my leisure time more than ever, that’s for sure! Do your son Neel and wife Pavarna like cars? Neel does like going for drives and can identify all cars by their keys! He likes going fast as well and makes complementing sounds when I do. Pavarna on the contrary doesn’t like going fast and prefers a more relaxed, sedate pace during our drives. What's your fitness regime like? I spend at least a couple of hours in the gym, six days a week. Regime is a mix of endurance combined with weight training and active recovery. I have a personal trainer guided by QLP boss Ramji who helps me keep track of what I need to do on a daily basis as everything has to be monitored very closely. What is your one vice when it comes to food? Food is a vice that’s for sure! I love eating good food which means I need to work extra hard in the gym. It’s not something I mind because if you can’t eat what you like, what’s the point? I try cutting down on refined carbs and avoid sugar, but as a South Indian I love my rice and can’t give it up for anything! What is your favourite car? At the moment it is the Porsche GT3 RS – but I think in general Porsche makes some fantastic drivers’ cars – they’re bristling with performance and reward good drivers. 18
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How did you dive into the world of business? Motorsports and business have a lot in common. I have turned my passion of automobiles into a modern, digital e-comm market place in torquex.com and it was clear that once I achieved everything I wanted in motorsport, I would get into a business connected with the obvious; automobiles! What is one thing about you that your fans don’t know? My racing track is much safer than our Indian roads!! I don’t prefer driving on the road, here in Chennai! The traffic is insane and you just feel no joy in driving and it begins to feel like a chore. Just can’t do it!
January 2018
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Small Talk
Outfit: Tommy Hilfiger
What’s your favourite racetrack in the world? Brands Hatch, United Kingdom. What is the best piece of advice you’ve ever received? Better to be fast and ragged than be slow and smooth. [reference to track driving].
Rapid Fire
Who would be your role model? And why?
Racing
–
Flat-out
Neel
–
Light
Ayrton Senna – the one and only. Unbelievable work ethic, talent and achievements!
Pavarna –
Support
Cinema
Fantasy
–
TorqueX – Passion
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January 2018
Small Talk
January 2018
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Techiela
With the world moving its roots to the World Wide Web, it was only natural that fashion moved online too. From information on new designers, to fashion shows and
Pick,Click,
buying clothes, everything is
Chic!
Moda Operandi With options to buy luxury couture straight off the runway and blogs on how to get the best out of each show, Moda Operandi tops our list for its exclusivity in giving us the best of luxury fashion. Apart from the runway, Moda Operandi also showcases trunk shows giving us the liberty to preorder pieces before it hits the runways. It also acts as a platform for budding designers to attract followers and increase their brand value. From clothing to shoes; bags to bridal clothes, Moda Operandi is a 360-degree circle of happiness for a luxury freak.
found online. Team LIVING picks five online websites to fulfill your quest for luxury and helps you forget your geographical troubles with over a million designers and their clothes delivered at your doorstep.
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January 2018
Please Call + 91 9025 600 600
January 2018
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Techiela
Net-a-Porter Net-A-Porter is known for being the leading-edge of online fashion with its multi-branded online store and unrivaled customer support. Apart from a range of designer wear, it constantly communicates with its audience via its monthly-fashion magazine - 'The Edit' - keeping its users updated on all the trends of the fashion industry. This magazine gives the buyer the liberty to choose a style and buy it directly from the magazine via a link. We believe that the secret for their success is the stylish packaging that they offer in the form of a gift with a black box and a black ribbon.
Confidential Couture Wave good-bye to your budget woes and say hello to Confidential Couture! If you’re an impulsive buyer with a wardrobe full of unused or rarely used bags and accessories, CC is the place for you to earn a little extra cash to spend on a new piece. The price of a product is defined after an avid conditioning process to identify its purity and authenticity. With a wide range of second-hand luxury couture, CC caters to enhance its audiences’ wardrobe with luxury possessions for the best price to fulfill their fashion needs. What makes CC a success is its requisite to maintain the secrecy of its sellers while at the same time keeping the buyer informed about its condition.
Harrods Indulging in fashion just got easier with the most famous departmental store going online. Harrods offers an extensive collection of the world’s finest luxury couture. Not too many places offer an experience of upscale shopping like Harrods does. It is your stop for a life of luxury with a range paralleling from household articles to high fashion. Its blogs with style rules works as guidelines to a fashion magnet to avoid fashion faux pax. Without a doubt, Harrods is a pioneer in the field of luxury couture.
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January 2018
Luisa Via Roma Luisa Via Roma is fashion’s most thoroughly curated platform with an array of designers for men, women and children. With options ranging from choosing clothes based on the occasion, designer or product, Luisa Via Roma gives its users an all-round experience on Luxury Couture. Alternatively, it also contributes to fashion through its blog that focuses on all shows, designers, and exclusive interviews of fashionistas you need to follow. Indulge in high fashion and fill your wardrobe with luxury that is readily available at a click.
January 2018
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Couture
u o Y , n o i h s a &
2018
“It’s a new dawn, it's a new day, it's a new life for
me,” sang Nina Simone with style, confidence and élan! The woman of today believes in herself and wants a life filled with confidence and dreams. However, in recent years not only has women’s fashion continued to evolve, but men’s fashion has also taken the centre-stage. As we gear up to celebrate life this new year, we look at what’s in store for fashion lovers. Will this year’s trends suit your wardrobe? Deepa Kalukuri spoke to Lea Silvestri, a London-based stylist and fashion influencer who takes you through fashion diaries 28
January 2018
of 2018!
January 2018
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Bring in the Spring Here comes the month of sun beds, flip-
flops and bohemian numbers. Many fashion houses have taken the floral prints off Spring/ Summer wear and painted their Winter sketches with gardens. ERDEMxHM collection for Autumn/Winter 2017 will be a huge fashion look for this year’s Spring/ Summer season. The floral suits, flats and pleated skirts are the most affordable yet chicest looks for Spring/Summer 2018. If couture is what you love, then here are our picks for this year’s best trends.
Animal Prints Animal prints are back in fashion after taking a break last Winter. From Zebra to Tiger prints, many fashion houses have chosen to dress
Head-to-Toe Prints
their models in headto-toe animal print outfits. Though Versace chose head-to-toe animal print outfits for women, it kept it simple and strippy for men. Striped casual and formal blazers with shorts or trousers will be a classic yet, fresh fashion statement for men this year.
If you are confident about carrying 100% prints, then you are about to rock the Spring/Summer season. You can even get away by matching accessories with your printed outfits. Hermes, Maxmara, Balmain and Prada are just what you need to look for
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January 2018
Faux Feathers & Millennial Pink If you love faux feathers, then this year is looking great for your wardrobe. Make sure you check with the weatherman when you decide to wear one of these! Loewe added the feather look to our beloved tees and we love it. Pleated skirt lovers get ready to add these feathers to your Spring/Summer look and also keep them in your mind as Fall 2018 comes in. Add a sweater or a pullover to quickly change your Spring look to Winter. Men’s wear, however, seems to have taken the classic route as Millennial Pink is a hit this New Year. Dunhill and Berluti have presented
Awesome Ombre not only is the favourite of hairstylists’ this year but also a fashion lover’s go-to trend. Colour patches and ombre are back on the runway after many seasons. Chanel led the trend with its resort and swimwear with different shades of a common colour palette. If you want to give a touch of Indie fashion to this trend, then get a tie & dye maxi and team it up with boho slippers. The Salvatore Ferragamo tie & dye dress print looks a lot like the ones you’ll find on the streets of Rajasthan.
a pink collection for men this year and pink moves on from the women’s favourite only.
An Autumn/Winter Hangover To all of us who are lucky enough to enjoy some cold temperatures and flaunt our winter boots, make merry as the Autumn/ Winter look from 2017 is still a huge fashion statement for prespring months. Thigh high boots, trench coats and berets will continue to rule the street fashion until Spring/Summer 2018 kicks in. So unless you are frolicking in the beaches in tropical cities, reuse your winter wear. January 2018
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Couture
IT Bags for
Give a girl a bag and she’ll carry her world with her. Black is a 2018 favourite and it’s quite the task to pick just a few from the New Years collection. However, if you’re looking to add a new sac to your wardrobe, here are some of the chicest bags for the new you.
Chanel Classic Flap Bag in Glitter Chanel’s classic flap bag will always make it to every chic list there is. Karl Lagerfeld has added a touch of shine and glitter to this ultimate fashionista favourite. It’s available in yellow, pink, red and metallic shades. The price for this one will depend on the size; mini, small, medium and jumbo. The latest reported price for a jumbo was over $5000*.
Petite Boite Chapeau
Balmain B Box
As soon as Nicholas Ghesquiere
Olivier Rousteing
took over Louis Vuitton, he
confessed he’s
redefined classic bags to
obsessed with this
suit the modern tastes. The
black beauty. A golden
classic hat box luggage bag
chain and the celebrated Balmain emblem
has been redefined for a day
right at the centre make it a bag worthy of
and evening look. The Petite
your closet. The sling bag is strictly a party
Boite just like its name, is cute
favourite and price for this one is still
and easy to carry. This one will cost your pocket
under wraps.
around $4500*.
Cinderella’s closet A woman can never have enough pairs of shoes. Give a girl the right pair of shoes and she’ll change the world said Marilyn Monroe. So what’s a diva’s favourite for the coming year? Autumn/Winter hinted at the newest shoe revolution in 2017. Stilettos and a pair of printed socks. Yes, you heard that right. From Gucci to Miu Miu, this trend is ignoring all the signs of Summer heat and is all set to take over street fashion this SS 18. We couldn't pick one!
Deepa Kalukuri is the Managing Editor of LIVING and an alumna of Asian College of Journalism. She's a Mumbaikar and a Hyderabadi who loves the Nizami charm, Irani chai and a spicy Vada Pav at the Marine Drive. 32
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The Big Picture
As the New Year unveils, luxury car manufacturers are striving to get hearts racing with the most exuberant and lavish cars of 2018. What’s really making streets go vroom vroom this year? Liliana Silva gets behind the wheels and talks about some of the most expensive vehicles of 2018.
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January 2018
A
s the gears are set in motion for 2018, the automobile industry has joined the race to
bring out the best of the wheels on the tracks. Each year many powerful and luxurious cars hit the roads, however, only few manage to blow our minds. Similarly, this new year brings with it a range of breathtaking luxury on wheels. Which of these are fast and furiously powerful? Sit back, get seated and take this ride; don't blame us if you want to buy them all!
January 2018
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The Big Picture The New Audi A8 L The new Audi A8, expected to launch March 2018, made its debut at the Audi Summit in Barcelona. The sedan is the fourth generation of its kind and is getting an all new exterior design, matched with an equally superb interior. The new generation Audi A8 L is the first production automobile in the world to have been developed for highly automated driving. The model paves way for Audi to gradually take piloted driving functions such as parking pilot, garage pilot and traffic jam pilot into production in 2018. The brand is world renowned for its lightweight construction, sports appeal and quattro permanent all-wheel drive, which the new A8 boasts of and more. The luxury sedan comes armed with 340 horsepower in its gasoline form and goes from 0 to 100 kmph in 4.6 seconds. Starting Price: USD $94,000*
The BMW 7 Series Sedan 760Li xDrive Set to launch in the summer of 2018, the latest 7 Series made it to our list as it has impressed us with its quiet and comfortable cabin, excellent driving dynamics, potent acceleration and, of course, its extensive technology options. Promising to be redefining luxe driving and 'tomorrow’s luxury' with this beauty, the German car brand is bringing us unprecedented technologies, luxe driving, outstanding design and of course, in true German form, safety. The 2018 7 series is the sixth generation of its kind, features exceptional rear passenger space and you can choose from several engine options, including the plug-in hybrid the and turbo V12. It also comes with standard adaptive air suspension and no less than 600 horsepower and is capable of hitting 0 to 100 kmph in 3.7 seconds. Starting Price: USD $159,900*
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January 2018
The Big Picture The Lamborghini Urus Would you have ever thought that you would see the day when Lamborghini took on the mountains? The Urus has been hotly anticipated as the world’s first Super Sport Utility Vehicle and the first of its kind for Lamborghini. The automaker was true to its nature by keeping the suspense and flamboyism alive until its launch in its mother plant in Sant’Agata Bolognese, Italy. Urus’ unique silhouette with a dynamic flying coupé line demonstrates its super sports origins, while its outstanding proportions, convey robustness, solidity and safety. The automobile is powered by a twin-turbocharged 4.0-litre V8 engine, generating somewhere around 650 horsepower and goes from 0 to 100 kmph in 3.6 seconds, making it the fastest S.U.V. ever built. Starting Price: USD $240,000*
The Aston Martin Valkyrie When it was announced that Aston Martin, Red Bull Formula One were collaborating to create, we knew it would turn out to be something truly spectacular and nothing short of a car fan’s dream. While a lot remains identical to the AM-RB 001, the biggest changes from its prototype, are the openings in the body surface between the cockpit and front wheel arches, bringing considerable gains in front downforce. The Valkyrie’s engine will be a naturally aspirated V-12, mounted behind the teardrop passenger compartment and the car will be produced in both a roadlegal and a racing version and to top off the technical specifications is a F1 styled energy recovery system with batteries supplied by Rimac. Even though there are yet specific figures to be confirmed, the Valkyrie’s power-to-weight ratio, coupled with the
lightweight construction and innovative aerodynamics, should mean that it will deliver approximately a staggering 1,130 horsepower and go from 0 to 100 kmph in under 3 seconds, with a grand top speed of 402 kmph. Starting price: USD $3.2 million* January 2018
37
powertrain, The Aperta is set to be the fastest road-lawful supercar out of the Maranello house. Originally only a minimal 50 examples were going to be built, but since the model was
The LaFerrari Aperta Labelled by Ferrari as a “futuristic and absolutely extremist car”, the Aperta made its first official public appearance at The Paris Motor Show a couple of years ago and is set to be on the road late 2018. The LaFerrari Aperta will be launched to coincide with Ferrari's 70th anniversary since the foundation of the company and this supercar is set to rank as the most expensive model to be out for purchase in 2018. With it being the very first Ferrari to transport a hybrid
completely sold out minutes after it was unveiled, rumour has it that the automaker is set to produce at least 70 units of the model. It’ll complete the 0 to 100 kmph run in 2.9 seconds, the same as the hard top, and max out at 217 mph. It combines an 800 CV 6262cc V12 with a 120 kW (163 CV) electric motor, for a total output of over 960 horsepower but its hybrid engine should put an environmentalist’s mind at ease. Starting price: USD $5.9 million*
The Rolls Royce Sweptail Finally, we couldn’t pass up the opportunity to relive the dream that is the Rolls Royce Sweptail, which was presented to the media in March 2017, at the Concorso d’Eleganza at Villa d’Este, Italy, by the CEO of Rolls-Royce Motor Cars, Müller-Ötvös. Made to order by Rolls Royce, who laboured over this exquisite model for three years, this one of a kind beauty was dreamt up by an anonymous owner who wanted an automobile that featured the classic lines of the 1920 models, combined with the characteristic lines of the supersport yachts. So, true to the British automaker’s personality, the Sweptail exceeded all expectations with its regal, but modern design. Seen directly from behind, the rear taper contrasts strongly with the front of the motor car, shaping a completely new perception of a dramatic Rolls-Royce Coupé. The Sweptail features one of the largest panoramic glass roof ever produced for 38
January 2018
a car and one of the largest Rolls-Royce front grille made from aluminium and polished by hand to a mirror finish. Starting Price: USD $13 million*
January 2018
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Feature
A Pickle Tale From Farm to Tables
Authentic, rich and made from handpicked farm grown ingredients, Jyo’s Farm has it all covered. Engulf this gourmet sider with your meal without having to worry about preservatives, unsaturated oil or artificial colouring. In a conversation with Zainab Khan, Jyothsna and Sweta Garapati speak about this mouth-watering savoury and how they have made it a must have on our dinner tables. 40
January 2018
Pickle making has always been a family tradition at the Garapati house. Recipes and passion for pickle making were passed on through generations when finally Jyothsna and Sweta along with Sarojini Kamineni (Jyothsna's mother) decided to venture into business on it. Not limiting their customers to just next door neighbours, today Jyo’s Farm pickle can be found in stores of Chennai, Hyderabad and Bangalore. A business venture with social roots: Bringing back the old traditions, Jyothsna believed that she could create a distinct identity and livelihood for the women of Ayodhyapatnam, a small village in Andhra Pradesh. Jyo’s pickle is handmade at every stage by thirty women who are making a living through these tiny jars of pickle. It’s a beautiful sight to watch these women work. Best of both worlds: With the use of simple ingredients like mangoes, lime, coriander, Jyo’s Farm has massively changed the pickle game in the city. The idea behind the pickle was to make two distinctive lifestyles meet. The duo worked to create a perfect blend of modern lifestyle and traditional culture, without compromising on the quality. Only the best and the freshest of ingredients are used to bring out the burst of flavours in every spoon of the pickle. Here’s what sets them apart: They define their quality at every stage. “We are 40% higher priced than other pickles in the market, but that is only because of our ingredients and quality,” explains Jyothsna. Even the kind of chillies they use for making the pickle is different. They use three different types of chillies - one to get the colour and two for flavour. All that exclusiveness and quality is what adds up to the price. While ordinary pickles you find at your department stores use inexpensive oil, Joy’s pickles are made of cold-pressed
January 2018
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sesame oil. Jyothsna strongly believes that their pick of ingredients is their biggest asset and sets them apart from the array of other pickle brands out in the market.
Sarojini Kamineni
Girl Power: For Sweta studying in an all-girls school in the US helped develop a strong passion towards wanting to empower women. As Jyo’s Farm started off as being women-centric, it inspired her to join the business with her mother. Sweta loved the idea behind an all-women’s team leading an entire business venture. Also, twenty percent of their profits are spent on making literacy programs that educate rural women on how to create a bank account, make a budget and more. Taking it overseas: Jyo's Farm has been shipping out their jars of pickle to many parts of Europe. The jar has won the hearts of many foreigners who have now become regular customers. It won’t be long before their presence is felt internationally. Keeping this in mind the duo is trying to work out on new flavours that appeal a modern-day food palette.
Jyosthna Garapati
Sweta Garapati
Their biggest milestone: Behind every success story is a number of challenges overcome that are unspoken about. The biggest challenge for Jyo’s farm was training the village women. Though these women were inherently good at pickle making, it was difficult for them to adapt to a few modern day concepts, due to lack of exposure. Packing and labelling were done by these women who sometimes would let slip an error. “Labels would be upside down, packing incomplete and other such small things. Keeping a track of the process was tough,” explains Jyothsna. But over time they learned to work more efficiently. Making the pickle was never a problem as these women grew up making them. Another challenge they face is very low margins. Since the business is more about passion than money-making, Jyothsna had to shell out money from her pocket to keep the business going initially. Future plans: Jyo’s Farm is planning to extend their product line and not just limit themselves to pickles. The idea was always there and that’s why the enterprise was named ‘Farm’. They are also planning to launch their own website through which they will sell their products and extend their online presence. Also adhering to their ideology of being women-centric, the duo are working on finding a cooperative that is women-centric around the globe to source out their raw materials. Gongura pickle with pasta: While the combination sounds crazy it’s one of Jyo Pickle’s most favoured recipes. Also, the mango-ginger pickle is said to go very well with toasted garlic bread, wine and cheese or even crackers. Now that’s a perfect blend of western and Indian classics. With one little jar at a time, Jyo’s pickle is sure to make its way into every household’s dining cabinet.
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Tripster
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January 2018
indonesia intimately There’s more to Indonesia than the serene mountains, coral reefs and sandy beaches of Bali. Devanshi Mody sets out to go beyond the untouched islands of this breathtaking country and explores the most luxurious resorts.
January 2018
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Tripster
Bawah Island
I
t vexes. I’m in Indonesia and told the spankingnew, hugely-hyped and already award-winning Bawah is accessible only via Singapore, although this private island, in far-flung
exotica, is in Indonesia. So, after a tortuous and misadventurous circuit I reach Singapore on a sold-out weekend to be homeless until Capella rescues with Singapore’s poshest bed, from which I’m
announce instantly that I intend seeing a python. At
extracted at 5.30 am (having entered it at 1.30 am)
Indonesia’s most exclusive address fetching almost
to make a ferry to Batam, in Indonesia, to sea-plane
USD 2000/night it’s the least one may expect.
across Indonesia.
Reservations Manager John Petch protests, “We are
Vexation dissipates when Vio, in tremendous pink, high on heels, tossing back her slick bob-cut, receives at Batam beaming, “You made it!” How
a safe island!” Excellent thing to tell the timorous but not to a wild one like me. GM Tom Blanchère is French and dashing young
not to when the ultra-efficient Vio choreographed
Executive Chef Omar Bernardi is Italian. I decide
the show? Vio intimates that hitherto-uninhabited
Paradise is when you have a sanctuary of 6 islands,
Bawah, supposedly a “time-machine” that transports
3 lagoons, 13 beaches, a French GM and an Italian
you back to purer times. How delicious. Except,
Executive chef. And a Garden Villa to go that John
immediately, everyone who possesses watches
says isn’t the fanciest but he’s being modest for it’s
(I don’t) starts twisting them to Bawah time and
stylish in that modishly eco-elegant, unfussed way.
frantically scouring WiFi before the seaplane departs.
Whilst we prospect the villa with beds swaddled in
The seaplane lands on a picturesque island from
fairy-white curtains and bathrooms where massive
where a swish boat slices the blue, Bawah-bound. I
copper plates become your shower floor spa
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January 2018
Tripster therapists arrive to foot-massage. I subsequently attempt what one oughtn’t, which is connecting to WiFi, ghastly habit, especially when time never lets you ignore It. So I’m late at the Groupa Bar where Tom who doesn’t greet you at arrival and waive you away on departure but seriously hosts is hosting. Everyone is attired for supper, quaffing Mouton Cadet 2014, discussing imminent direct seaplanes from Changi to Bawah. We ascend to the Treetop restaurant which has romantic terrace tables but unless you’re dining with VS Naipaul it’s a good idea to join the communal table where Chef Bernardi, who has worked at Milan’s 2-Michelin-starred Sadler, likes fusing Indonesian and Italian and Tom and his chic young French wife, Spa Manageress Adeline, entertain you until you wish to be and this could be midnight. Don’t stay up too late and don’t drink too much if you intend uphill jungle treks next morning. Want adventure? Ask for the spunky Sholi who’ll circumambulate the isle with you- for the intrepid alone for you hike up the hill, down to Coconut Beach and then you’re wading through waters with coral shards that sting rays shimmer past, scouring mangroves to spot mud-skippers or scampering up rocks where grand monitor lizards scurry away. After the morning’s exertions drench yourself in Ytsara ablutions and breakfast, cosseted by Ino, Ricky and Bobby, on homemade breads and yoghurt, local honeys and spectacular prospectsdescry at least 3 of the sanctuary’s 6 islands from the Treetop restaurant. Then, Tom can take you snorkelling or diving but I take Tom instead on a boat safari, discovering lagoons and beaches, including a sexy James Bond nook on a mangrove-flanked, turquoise-and-emerald stretch nicknamed the “River” scintillating with coral and marine life Tom enlightens on. Post this adventure, book Theo for the best massages on Bawah. Departure after 4 nights dismays, unless bespoke
Alila Villas Uluwatu “Next time we’ll put a GPS on one and have it ready to track for you.” What could be more luxurious?
Alila Villas Uluwatu: It’s slick, it’s suave, it’s a sensation. It gets racier still when F1 drivers rock up. It’s amongst the most astonishingly beautiful resorts you’ll see. A phenomenal piece of architectural mastery sophisticating traditional motifs into elegant embellishments. As Alila’s iconic latticed Sunset Cabana lurches dizzyingly over piercing blue seas, you’re bewitched and beheld. Until the comely young Operations Manager Janine asks, “You must be hungry?” And you’re escorted through poolcontouring trim verandas to The Warung where plethoric Indonesian dishes unleash. Glut for this is the loveliest homestyle local cuisine you’ll have. Staggered up a hill, they’ve private pools before which a latticed cabana adores the ocean. The handsomest villas, stocked with black-clad Alila living amenities, given more to aesthetics than practicality, are clearly meant for romance for there are no blinds obstructing views of the outdoors shower and whoever is in it from anyone in the bathroom, seamless with the bedroom. But here you won’t say “two’s company, three is a crowd” for your private butler Mira makes for a charming
tour operator and aviation specialists Remote Lands
companion, especially if you’re travelling with Mum
(https://www.remotelands.com/ultraluxe) is flying
who might be ailing. Press “O” and Mira manifests so
you back privately, stylishly. Senior host Eko is
instantaneously that you rather suspect she must
admonished, “You didn’t show me a python.” He says,
be hiding in the manicured bushes outside your January 2018
47
Tripster creatures at the poolside Il Bar where you sip vistas of ocean and award-winning, pandan-infused signature Bvlgari cocktail Amaryllifolius, but not if you’re wining on at gastronomic restaurant Il RistoranteLuca Fantin which boasts Bali’s only selfrespecting wine list. Expect everything from Gaja to Planeta when others peddle New Zealand wines. Luca Fantin, honed at Rome’s 3-Michelin-starred La Pergola and voted “Best Italian Chef in the World” just brought Tokyo’s only Michelin-starred Italian restaurant to Bali where he effects contemporised 5 courses, ineffably fine, indelibly memorable (alright memory fails after that hazardously fab wine). What we love about the Bvlgari is that it can whisk Bvlgari Resort
you from the Milanese space of Il Ristorante to the rusticity of La Spiaggia, a spartan shack with Nature
villa. She can escort you on an “Alila Experience”
as sole adornment levitating high over searing blue
to the 11th Cent Uluwatu Temple and she can fetch
waters and the resort’s blinding-white private beach.
you out-of-season mangosteen. At Quila Spanish
Expend the afternoon at Bali’s best spa over just-
Executive Chef Marc Panades bends humbly at your
right massages and burnishing Espa facials but
feet only to catapult you to gastronomic heights with
don’t miss the sunset for even the imperious Bvlgari
a 10-course sensory odyssey enlivened by insanely
can’t hold the sunset. Melinda Taylor, the svelte
good mocktails. Be this more technical ingenuity and
young Sales Manager, hands-on-hips, pouts at Ricky,
culinary theatricality than palatability wake to gorge
“Couldn’t you do this much?” Of course not. At the
over sunrise on gorgeous homemade granola at Cire.
Bvlgari you’re expected to do little other than laze
And if you spot something out-blazing the sunrise it’s
about the pool, preferably wrapped in a bejewelled
probably Cameron Diaz’s hair.
Bvlgari necklace from the resort boutique.
Bvlgari Resort Bali: It’s Bali’s priciest resort. But
Hoshinoya Bali: Bali’s most-hyped launch of 2017,
enter the lobby, desolately hill-topped, stark, and
original, jungle-set and aloof from Ubud’s luxury
you’re consternated. There’s a thatch-roof with a
resort huddle. This arresting Japanese resort is
white sofa, maybe two, and a stand for a “reception.”
inspired from the island’s age-old UNESCO-stamped
Then, the buggy descends you from the lofty
water temple network. Around a maze of waterways
perch through lush tree-lined serpentine ways to a
30 superb villas in 3 varieties spout out of exuberant
lavish verdure-wreathed infinity pool where exalted
foliage. You haven’t a private pool. Instead, you have
specimens of humanity languish in white-curtained
uniqueness with a semi-private pool so you can slip
cabanas, some must be celebrated but who can tell,
out of your villa into the meandering waterways
concealed as they are behind those glittering Bvlgari
and swim around the resort. With base-level Villa
shades. Pooled Ocean View Villas in sable wood and
Bulan from USD 700/night newcomer Hoshinoya
bathrooms as big as the bedrooms endowed with
audaciously positions itself with the mightiest. We
Bvlgari toiletries extort about USD 1500/night. The
certainly love the jungle-facing premium Villa Jalak.
price excludes the “Chinese circus,” as PR Manager
Whilst the duplex Villa Soka entices honeymoners
Ricky Utomo calls the unseemly assailment at other
Jalak is more romantic by far- eminently Japanese, in
resorts. Instead, spot jacketed, gowned and groomed
light wood, with low beds and almost entirely glass-
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January 2018
Tripster
Hoshinoya encased. A pool-boy watches you do yoga on your private terrace edging the incestuous pool whilst glass-facaded villa are like televisions so you can watch the drama next-door. Yes, you’ve live theatre for USD 1200/night. Note the rigorous Japanesestyle room orientation and automatic Japanese toilets. If daylong rain traps you, Jalak is a villa you won’t despair in, especially as butlers come bearing dashing young Japanese Executive Chef Makoto Miyamaguchi’s Balinise food spruced with Japanese technique, including stupendously delicious noodle broth. Ironically, a Japanese chef makes the most potent Java coffee ice cream in all Bali but for this you must go to the river-girt restaurant because ice cream must be served at optimum temperature, with Japanese precision. Ironically, sushi manifests at other Balinese resorts but not at Hoshinoya because Chef bemoans the acceptability of Japanese ingredients in Bali. Hop onto an exciting outdoors elevator that submerges you in a jungle spa suite for a 3-hr holistic body treatment including scrub, massage and Shisheido facial. No spa music. Only birdsong.
St Regis Bali Resort: Bali’s glitziest resort is where the King of Saudi Arabia stays, taking up the whole resort to it leave half-empty, bestowing
St Regis staff, conveyed in private planes, at lesser resorts commensurate with their hierarchy. You will love the island’s most buxom Sunday brunches at Boneka that come with pre-brunch cocktails at the King Cole bar. Hit the bar again over sunset to watch the thunderous “Fire Dance.” Then amble to the swishest restaurant in town, Kayuputi, quite the place to see and be seen. Gourmets will prefer Dulang’s Indonesian cuisine, gourmands head to the Gourmand Deli. The greatest treat though is the Concierge.
Plataran Menjangan: In the remote ravishment of West Bali National Park, the only place on the isle with deer, two varieties, this must be the most enchanting of places. A 5-hr scenic drive past multiple UNESCO sites or through coffee and clove
January 2018
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Tripster
The Phoenix
Plataran plantations, takes you to about the only eco-luxury resort in a destination dismally unmindful of the environment. Into a jungle and you’re on a magical terrace over a beguiling seascape: Time on your mobile flip-flops between Bali-time and Java-time as you behold Java and Menjangan Island beyond
Rimba
and mangrove-frilled waters below you. GM Gusti Cayaningrat, forsook a glamorous resort that revealed he’d never be GM because only expats could at Bali’s luxury resorts. He’ll dispatch you on morning jungle treks and have you brought to a pristine setting- think immaculate blue waters, an
complicate selfie-taking, certainly when torrents hurtle onto your shoulders like the Himalayas crashing down upon you- as you watch the sun simmering into set on the horizon yonder.
enthralment of mangroves, an orchestra of birds and
The Phoenix Yogyakarta: Quaint. Heritage. Centurion.
a cornucopia for breakfast mounted like Nero’s feast.
Presiding over Indonesia’s culture capital Yogyakarta,
Rimba by Ayana: With 19 F&B options dotting a 90-hectare integrated resort and multinational chefs galore (French, Mexican, Greek, Chinese, Thai, Indonesian belting out the best Balinese buffet at in-house village Kampoeng Bali and even an Indian Executive Sous-Chef Ravinder Dalal who made Manmohan Singh aloo gobi). Rimba’s lobby is like a “midnight sale,” someone muses, swarming with Chinese tourists apparelled as if on the French Riviera. They take Balinese afternoon tea in satin nightwear amidst beauteous orchids at glasshouselike Orchid and at Bali’s most riveting bar, the seaset Rock Bar The aqua-tonic pool, an astounding discovery, for 60 jets pounding your anatomy
it’s from where to explore fabled UNESCO sites Borobudur and Prambanan. The welcome is an exquisite elixir whose composition is top secret (shhh) and home-made local sweetmeats borne delightfully on a three-tiered platter. The colonial mansion, a history-imbued live-in museum, exudes the genteelness of a bygone era. Contemporary flashes come in Chef Gatot Santoso’s “Chef’s Table”: 5-course traditional Yogyakarta cuisine where 5 chefs present 5 dishes, telling a story with each. It’s more agreeable dining in the restaurant incised with waterways. Although it would daunt chefs should you require that addictive Es Dawat Banyumas dessert over and over and over again.
After reading Physics, French and Philosophy at Oxford, Devanshi Mody gallivanted about the globe and stumbled into travel writing fortuitously. Vagabond urges notwithstanding, she's ever lured back to Chennai for masala dosas! 50
January 2018
January 2018
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Around the world in
E
xtravagance, elegance and new hopes! Each New Year global cities take part in bidding good bye with fireworks and over the top bling. Here are five of the most extravagant New
Year celebrations from across the world.
Sydney Opera House, Australia
Aussies are the first ones to welcome the New Year and they have made sure the rest of the world watches in awe. With views of the Sydney Harbour Bridge, the Opera House lights up with extravagant fireworks and millions waiting to bring in the New Year at the bridge. Also, the eight course meal served at the Opera kitchen will cost you a cool $1,000. The Broadway style show, The Merry Widow also adds the glamour to the festivities and hundreds flock the venue to watch the spectacle.
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January 2018
Burj Khalifa, Dubai The tallest building in the world has to have its charm and when in Dubai, missing the fireworks and lights atop Burj Khalifa on New Year’s eve should be a crime! Dubai is known for its larger than life architecture and night life. On New Years eve it’s no different. The Burj Khalifa ups the grandeur by showcasing some of the best fireworks in the world. Just drive by or book a table in a roof top restaurant with a view of the building. You’ll love how the Emiratis welcome the New Year.
Times Square, Manhattan No matter what season, month or occasion it is; Times Square is full of life and on New Years Eve it's one big celebration of lights, life and love. You’ll see couples, families and friends frolicking the busy street in Manhattan as they welcome the New Year with extravagance and lots of fireworks. Times Square is surrounded by numerous bars and restaurants which offer some of the best buffets for the evening. Book yourself a table in advance and welcome the New Year with hundreds and thousands of New Yorkers!
Hogmanay, Edinburgh Bagpipes, torchlight procession and a giant open-air Ceilidh; Hogmanay turns into a party paradise on December 31. The authorities erect stages across the city to accommodate live
Big Ben, London Don’t let the Big Ben repair stop you from visiting the London bridge and the spectacular array of lights. Standing proud and tall for over a century, this
bands. Ale, scotch and a huge display of pyrotechnic
clock has been through it all. Every
colour fill the air with celebration. As the Scots
New Years eve as the clock strikes 12, millions of
welcome the New Year, they hold hands and sing the
spectators stand by and watch in awe the amazing
traditional song, ‘Auld Lang Syne’.
fireworks over the river Thames. It’s one view you should not miss in this lifetime! January 2018
53
Health Wise
Fast, Frivolous and Fun
Functional Fitness With changing times and lifestyles, it’s time to change the way you choose to stay
F
itness is not always about having rippling muscles, the perfect abs or curves. In the fast paced life we live today it’s very
important to stay fit in a healthy way than
in an attractive manner. That’s exactly what Function
fit. Deepti Akki, Managing
Training is all about. A whole new workout routine
Director of F45 fitness studio
for the busy day ahead.
and the Founder of Alongo Pre & Post Natal Care, shares the secrets of functional training for a renewed look at fitness. 54
January 2018
that is fast, energetic and will keep your body ready Functional Training is generally a classification of exercise which involves training the body for the activities performed in daily life. The pooling number of gymnasiums opening up around the globe is letting people believe that gymming is all about flexing muscles, biceps and packs. Instagram fitness pages don’t help either with a spate of pictures of
Health Wise physical activity apart from our regular course makes us sweat out the water thus resulting in an illusion of weight loss which is basically a water draining from the system. This is the reason most tend to complain about gaining back those lost pounds when they decide to stop making their detours to the gym. Functional fitness is a permanent solution to these plights because it focuses on altering and streamlining your metabolism. Functional fitness in the context of bodybuilding involves weight-bearing activities targeted at core muscles of the abdomen and lower back. So let’s try understanding this with a small example of two different people with completely different but proactive lifestyle with a similar kind of physical workload. Let one be a successful heart surgeon operating at least three different patients a day and a bus conductor manning a local government transport on the busiest route for a twelve-hour shift. Both these professions involve having to spend 75-95% of a regular workday standing, walking or stooping. While their hands are busy operating patients or ripping tickets for fellow passengers. young men and women posting pictures of biceps and gluten free diet. Most of the so-called 'gyms' have become a place for bodybuilding or sculpting, while fitness is given the least of importance or focus. When was the last time you saw a huge hulk of a
Now getting back to our metaphor of holistic education, there is no weight training or bodybuilding gyms with machinery that prepare us for these specific "functional" movements. All these modern day workouts do is strengthen the muscle but the sudden kneel in the conductor's case or the sturdy
bodybuilder do some basic sports like swimming or
hand and precision in the surgeon's hands are not
running and post pictures of that? The most popular
based on the strength they have but on their
gym workout you see today is the bench press. This
motor skills.
routine expands your chest muscles. Now that’s hardly put to use while it comes to daily chores or physically challenging activities. Typical weight training workouts concentrate mostly on building an isolate or specific muscle in your body. On the other hand, when you do not want to build any of those mountainous muscles and looking to build a lean athletic physique all you’re asked to do in the gym are the basics. This would include twenty minutes on a treadmill and another twenty in the EFX. The same monotonous routine every single day. The human body has seventy per cent water content and any
Functional training is all about developing one’s lacking Gross Motor Skills (GMR) and strengthening the necessary functional muscles of our system. Gross Motor Skills are large muscle movements that are developed from childhood in a head to toe fashion. When we observe infants, they start moving their neck first, followed by wiggling their hands and then try to kick their legs. These represent basic core movements that require strengthening. The process of functional training automatically strengthens these core muscles as a result of repeated movement and flex of these muscles. January 2018
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Table for Two
Work-Eat-Out! T
he sound from an antique bell invites you as soon as you open the doors to Kimberly House. Located on Harrington road, with its antique furniture and homely interiors, the
cafe makes you feel at home. As the name suggests, Kimberly house was originally a home now turned into a cafÊ inviting guests from all over Chennai and beyond. Mr. Karthy Lakshmanan, not only is the co-owner of the cafe, but has also grown up in this house and speaks of the rich history behind it. His greatgrandfather is credited with having designed the road that leads to Tirupati from Tirumala. His grandfather was a prisoner of war captured by the Japanese army during World War II. The house being owned and built by his great-grandfather and grandfather holds a lot of emotional value. Together, with his business partner, Mr. Jayakrishna Madan, Kimberly House was launched. Kimberly House is named after the now Harrington road which was called Kimberly Gardens during the 1940’s. The name captures the historical essence the 65-year-old house holds within. 56
January 2018
Walk into Kimberly House for a culinary experience like no other. A vintage themed café at Chetpet that will transport you back to old Madras. Though the ambience takes you back on a nostalgic trip to the 1950’s, the menu has it all to satisfy contemporary tastes. Ankita. S pampers her taste buds with authentic SouthIndian food with a touch of western influence.
savored along with coconuts. We were also served the onion pakodas, but the twist that Kimberly House gives us is a mango dip which was hands down one of the best we’ve ever tasted. The French Toast and the Quiche that joined us later had just the right ingredients and perfect flavors to fill our taste-buds with awe-worthy food. The first floor of the house is turned into a The café is filled with antiques such as type-
co-working space with conference rooms and
writers, traditional board games and contemporary
individual desks as per the need of the user. The
art placed all around. What catches our attention the
air-conditioned space offers free wi-fi and cosy
most, is the garden with a stone path decorated with
chairs along with the privacy and comfort required to
pebbles on each side leading to the outdoor tables.
complete work on time. The café also offers special
The café serves it all from Paneer Soda to pulpy grape juice. The first item on the table is a chilled Nannari sharbat, made from the roots of the
meal packages to their co-working guests, but homecooked food is welcome too. All in all, Kimberly House offers everything that
Nannari herb, just the right drink to beat the heat of
one needs; to hang-out with friends or to finish their
Chennai. Following this is the ever-so-sweet Kavuni
work –
Arisi Puttu. The Kavuni Arisi Puttu is a sweet that’s
free wi-fi and the feeling of being at home.
Indoor and Outdoor Seating, delicious food,
Kimberly House, New no 6, Old no 12, 11th Avenue, Harrington Road, Chetpet, Chennai January 2018
57
Parenting
'Kid'ding with Nature How often do you see parents wanting their children to grow up at nature's pace? With
T
here is nothing more that I firmly believe in than things developing at their own pace. As humans, we are wired to push things to happen when they would have
happened anyway but maybe not at the expected
changing times and evolving
pace. Between managing multiple children, work,
technologies, parenting has
seems like a blur. The days seem too short and we
changed it facade. Antara
in the process, throw the development of events off
a hint of a social life, family and so on, every day try to hasten the pace with which we operate and
Kothari talks about the need
course. In many cases, the immediate result before
for natural development in
the long term it could be undesirable.
children and how we need to stop kidding, literally! 58
January 2018
the planned time may seem favourable, however in The need for our children to be the best at everything is an innate quality in all us mothers. Even before my elder son was born, I already had a mental
Parenting
image ingrained in my head of what milestones I expected him to achieve during the first year. All the ‘expected’ milestones which were concerned ‘age-appropriate’ as stated by most trusted source at the time (Google) and veteran mothers, flew out the window a few months later. Most of the time, no one ever tells you to let your child develop at his/ her own pace and that everything will happen in due time. From learning to stand with support and then taking their first steps, to which child is crying the most on the first day of school, there is always an inside voice in each mother comparing her child to another. Comparison is self-destructive and forces natural development to take a back-seat. It is one of life’s greatest pleasures to watch our children achieve milestones. More than the happiness it's the sigh of relief that the expected age-appropriate milestone has been achieved and in situations where this is not the case, panic and anxiety start to surface. Immediately negative thoughts like “is there something developmentally wrong with my child” come to the forefront. For many, the desire for their child to accomplish these milestones is so great that extreme measures are taken to guide them through the process of achieving them. Children develop at different paces and it is futile trying to make them ready for the next stage of life before natural development allows them to be ready. Very often, in may come across as dis-interest in performing an activity, when in fact it probably is just the lack of readiness. My elder son when given the choice between writing and colouring, immediately chose writing. One would think that colouring is an activity every child is programmed to do and that he must colour because that is the norm. Instead of forcing him, I encourage his writing skills, keeping in mind that his colouring skills will develop over time. I was advised by my mother-in-law who is a special educator and an avid
believer in natural development, to let developments take place naturally, advice which ultimately proved to be valuable. Developing confidence in children is key. Comparison with others and forcing children to develop ignoring their readiness to do so, often has detrimental effects resulting in low confidence levels. Children develop patience and contentment in their own bodies and so should we as their mothers. They possess the natural instincts to achieve their milestones at their own pace. It is a challenging task to ward off outside forces who tell us that milestone achievement is the be all and end all of child development; I believe that the opposite is true. With anything in life, disturbing the natural order of events is usually counterproductive and has longlasting effects. We often think pushing children to do things outside their comfort zone will get them to widen their world view and yes, that is the best way to go sometimes. But if that meets resistance, then we need to re-examine the situation at hand and focus on what they are ready for and not what we want them to be ready for. We need to know our children.
Antara is a mother of two and is the founder of Parenting blog, The Bubbly Blogcast. She writes about everyday challenges moms face and uses her blog as a platform for global discussion on parenting. January 2018
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Inside Out
60
January 2018
Sunny Skies, Skylines And Spectacular Dips There’s nothing more relaxing than taking a dip in a refreshing pool or basking on its deck as you relish
the holiday spirit. Why pay a hefty
price to enjoy a nice dip in heaven? Suraksha Acharya takes us through a relaxing read on how to use our personal home space and turn it into a stunning pool.
I
nstead of splurging a ton of cash on a ‘one-time’ trip, many are seeing the benefits of turning their small spaces into a relaxing retreat that allows them to have a great staycation all year long. Although it might
be considered as a luxury, swimming pools serve many purposes and are therefore often worth the splurge. These unique designs from resorts to private villas showcase a plethora of spectacular pools that draw you in with their opulence. From outdoor infinity pools that take your breath away to surreal living rooms that gives you the illusion of being underwater, these stunning swimming pools will tempt you to spend more time in water than on land! January 2018
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Inside Out
Tel Aviv Infinity Pools - While views of the sand and surf are appealing, a beautiful and vibrant city skyline is arguably an attractive sight. Contemporary homes are as much about the view they offer, as they are about their sleek and stylish interiors. A lovely view is a perfect way to start your day and presents a relaxing setting for you to unwind after a long hard day. This stylish home in Tel Aviv is all about that and more. The refreshing infinity pool on the terrace offers unabated views of the city. The second-floor swimming pool is surrounded by a ravishing deck space and a glass railing. The pool area is all about giving you the best views of the tranquil ocean. Source: Pitsou Kedem Architects. In a contemporary twist, you can add a dry seating area in the center of the infinity pool to add even more fun and style. For additional outdoor dĂŠcor, consider unique coloured underwater lighting and ambient floating candles. The infinity pool at Huvafen Fushi hotel have fiber optic lighting for a truly magical swimming experience. Source: Huvafen Fushi & Susan Huntar Architects
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January 2018
Hanging Gardens, Bali
Inside Out
Reflecting Pool
Santa Monica Villa Reflecting Pools - Reflecting pools are water features that not only exude a serene and peaceful charm, but also accentuate the best aspects of your home or the canopy surrounding it by acting as a giant mirror. Modern reflecting pools have come a long way beyond the expansive and excessively large pools that require hefty maintenance and constant attention. Bringing forth a sense of calmness and tranquility, it is the stillness of these features that makes them so attractive. This modern home showcases a reflecting pool that ushers in an ambiance that allows you to escape the rush of mundane life. With protruding and overlapping volumes that scream dynamism, the reflecting pool transforms the exterior into a personal and secluded retreat. Brilliant both as an architectural feature and a peaceful getaway, they combine the best of both the worlds with effortless ease! Source: Abramson Teiger Architects Double Decker Pools - Guests staying at the Hanging Gardens Bali hotel in the Balinese jungle can
January 2018
63
Shaw House
Inside Out
Inspired by the ripple effect generated by water droplets, known as the capillary wave, Parinee Ism is one of the most unique luxury high rises designed
Anderson Wise take in gorgeous sunsets and possibly spot a monkey in the trees as they take a dip. The free-form pool with lush green edge, overlooks a two-tiered infinity pool that seemingly hangs above the rainforest.This pool is not for those who have Acrophobia as it’s
by James Law for the uber-rich in Mumbai. This skyscraper boasts of many private infinity pools that its residents can enjoy while taking in the scenic views. Source: James Law Cybertecture Pool Roofs - Despite its small area, the Shaw
located pretty high up from the ground but offers you
House designed by Patku Architects is a great
a great view while you enjoy your swim.
masterpiece with its distinct lap pool. Believe it or
The Cantilevered Pools - Ever visited an aquarium and wonder what it would be like to be a fish (or a mermaid/merman) and live underwater? Well, you can get the fish bowl experience in Austin with this awe-inspiring cantilevered pool. Designed by architectural firm of Andersson-Wise, the suspended spectacle offers 180-degree views of Lake Austin within a prism of glass, concrete and steel Source : Anderson wise 64
January 2018
not, the pool is placed above the ground along the private areas of the house. The lap pool can be seen from inside the house which adds illumination and roominess to the interior. Because the house is so narrow, spatial expansion is possible only outward over the water and upward. West Coast, Vancouver is in an area of high seismic risk, but that wasn’t a hindrance for the design team that were able to come up with this lap pool that added beauty to the entire house. Daylight is reflected from the lap pool
Inside Out
swimming pool area that cost more than $2 million to build. The swimming pool area was deliberately designed to be an open one, where dwellers and guests can jump right into the pool from the veranda without any walls or glass hindering them from doing so. The 10-ft swimming pool has an infinity edge that looks out into the ocean. But its ultimate wow factor lies below in the basement: a U-shaped entertainment room wrapped in floor-to-ceiling acrylic windows—4 ½ inches in thickness—that are designed to hold back over half a million pounds of water! From this unique room, you can see people which is located into the central area of the plan.
swimming around and bubbles that provide a sense
It created a very serene and relaxing ambience for
of motion.
this home. Source : Benjamin Benschineider The Bauhaus Bedroom Pool will give you the
Source: Guz Architects If you want to spend your next vacation at home and enjoy a more relaxing and cost-effective ‘me
feeling of being under the ocean with its rooftop pool
time’ approach, a fabulous pool and deck are an
set up on top of the master bedroom. The magical
absolute must. The timeless charm and amazing
aqueous light is transmitted through the water and
serenity of a swimming pool bring along with them
glass bottom of the pool, illuminating the entire area
a host of advantages and transform your backyard
and giving it a serene feel.
landscape or home interior into a dreamy and
Room within a Pool - When you walk into this room, you can sense that you're actually underwater. This environmentally friendly seafront house in the resort island of Sentosa has a show-stopping
panoramic getaway that is always accessible. With contemporary homeowners and architects bringing the swimming pool indoors if necessary, you can now enjoy this delight all year long!
Suraksha Acharya is the founding principal of Midori Architects (www.midoriarchitects. com), Chennai -an award-winning firm, offering architecture, interior, landscape & masterplannning services. She is a cognitive member of the green architecture industry in India, championing the need to build better and more environment friendly structures. enquiry@midoriarchitects.com January 2018
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The Last Word
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January 2018
A tryst with elegance Tarun Tahiliani
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The Last Word
Born in the city of dreams, Mumbai, Tarun Tahiliani has grown to be a name synonymous with panache and modern fashion. He fused his love for Indian textiles with European designs and is now ruling India’s runways. As he proudly presents his latest collection in the city of temples, Chennai, Jane Kataria catches up on a candid chat with the master of threads. South India is wonderful because it is still very connected to its traditions and its roots and therefore there is a reason that fashion is not as developed as in North India or Mumbai which are more cosmopolitan. I travel, often enough to develop attachment, to have a circle of close friends and loyal customers. Fashion in Chennai is a little bit more traditional. If you are a 65 year old woman you are perfectly fashionable, but if you are 19 and
E
urging to wear mini skirts this isn’t the place yet. xperiencing lives of people vicariously is
And that is fine as everything happens at its own
probably the best part of interviewing. Being
pace. America, I find is a more homogeneous fashion
able to draw interviewees dreams in colour,
environment because of television, media and of
shape and form is indeed rewarding. As I
course, the Internet. I believe that such homogeneity
travel to meet Tarun Tahiliani, my thoughts dive into
will take hold in India in due course. For a fashion
the world of high fashion, beautiful divas donning
designer, homogeneity is like a speed breaker. But
stunning outfits running across curves and cleavages.
thankfully that’s not the case today in Chennai and
I smiled. Tarun arrived exactly on time. Discipline is
more generally in South India. In today’s world you
the foundation of couture, I thought.
dress for yourself and be who you want to be.
Welcome to Chennai. Do you travel often to
Like the YouTubers say – you do You!
Chennai? How fashionable is the city in your view?
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Exactly! That’s the most important thing. Dump the trend.
The Last Word So if a budding designer is looking to break the mould and find clientele in melting pots like Mumbai or Delhi, what should they keep in mind? Well, like I always say, budding designers should have a very strong stamp in what they design. They should incorporate an identity, which people will come and look for and hopefully develop a following for. There must be a strong connect between the product and the people who want to wear it and that’s how you should develop this business. That’s the first thing. Although its tough to relocate, its worth considering at the beginning. Clients should have a wonderful experience, which your presence as an upcoming designer can provide, so that they hopefully support you and your design. Another option could be to develop a retail network. Having said that, in today’s world with technology being where it is, a lot is possible without relocating. Anamika Khanna works out of Calcutta. She did not relocate. It probably did not even cross her mind. You can Facetime to connect with your customers. You might have to invest more time and you could be smart as well to have the press on your side. Time is the most precious thing that you have as a designer. Becoming a model is the dream of many young girls. What is a model for you? Is it true that hiring popular models is essential part of marketing for fashion labels? There was an age of supermodels. In the West, it was an era in which the likes of Cindy Crawford and Naomi Campbell made every new collection of a brand credible. Indian advertising environment replicated similar tendencies to some extent. However, the industry has evolved and so have its clients. People want many capable models to adorn the industry. Models who have the style and poses that capture beauty, elegance, grace and good taste have scope in the fashion industry. Naomi and Cindy had individuality. But then, there was a gentler aristocratic life forty years ago. The rich would take a Concorde flight from New
You might have to invest more time and you could be smart as well to have the press on your side. Time is the most precious thing that you have as a designer. Becoming a model is the dream of many young girls.
York to Paris for a bridal outfit. Today, many of the models are generic. In spite of these changes, of course, your model has to be beautiful. And while they say that beauty is in the eyes of the beholder, you look for a model who can be universally acclaimed to be beautiful. It’s a personal choice. So unless a girl is like a chameleon who can change personalities, and who embodies values of your brand, and who has a body language that conveys inner elegance, you are January 2018
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The Last Word thought that he was interested in the business and the people. But that has not worked out yet. And it’s perfectly fine for a young lad to look for a space of his own. I have seen that you have an extensively traditional themed line. But I have noticed that Bollywood stars wear mostly western designers on the red carpet. The sad thing is that the big stars have stopped wearing Indian designers and traditional fashion primarily due to magazines and media which are run by Western educated elitist individuals. We, in some way, are losing our identity. We are de-rooted. We speak a foreign language. We grew up colonised wanting to be white. A few years ago, Aishwarya better off doing more scouting for your models.
Rai created a sensation at the Cannes film festival
To me natural beauty sans make up looks more
wearing a saree, being so graceful and a true beauty!
appealing than with overdone makeup. Smooth and
Yet some people feel that it is not cool enough.
glossy skin is closer to my line. Make up is a mask behind which models hide. That’s my choice and my prerogative for my line. I like slightly more voluptuous women, so we generally have more standard sized models. Can you tell our readers how your start was, and what your initial experiences in the fashion industry were? My team consisted of just two tailors. I used to be a part time designer then because I had a day job. We used to work on the fourth floor in a little office in Opera House, Mumbai, and the tailors would sit on mattress' and do their work. We did not have mannequins back then and we actually used a very thin office boy to try on our creations. He was our model, our girl. That’s how people start. Poor thing. He would do all our trials. (smiles) We know your son has joined your business. How’s it going for him? He joined and then left the business two months ago. I am not sure whether he does not like fashion
I love sarees and I feel that women look incredibly stunning in sarees. Why is it less popular attire especially amongst the younger generation? At a recent dinner, my German and Korean friends were in sarees. Ironically, most Indian women wore Western outfits on that day… Becoming Western is a de facto code to display your success. Also, there is a lot of cheap fashion today which includes Western outfits that don’t really suit or fit. In addition to end of the era of supermodels, do you see an era of global fashion retailers entering India? Is mass fashion hurting or helping your brand? So many international mass fashion brands are available in big cities and also increasingly in smaller cities and towns in India. This is raising standards, designs, and ambitions of existing brands, and also fuelling ambition into young and talented fashion design graduates to start their own labels. But mass retailers do not cross paths with my line.
or his father. He was not interested in fashion but I
Jane Kataria is a model, Radio Jockey and a passionate writer. A Russian by birth and Indian by heart, she loves fashion, movies and music. 70
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