SEPTEMBER 2017 `�125
KARISMA KAPOOR on her home, family and life fantastic
NATURE-INSPIRED
VISIT GOOD
EARTH’S
LUSH WORKSPACE
The New
STYLEMAKERS
10 Hottest Names to Know
design O décor O food O beauty lifestyle O travel O wellness O fashion
Master Our Fave Dramatic
MAKEUP LOOKS
CHEF’S SPECIAL
Nuts About Coconuts Desserts We Can’t Get Enough Of!
contents
september 2017 | volume 11 | number 06
FRESH
24 ACCENTS Take inspiration for your home from the world’s fashion capitals.
30 DESIGNER Meet Akshay
Sharma, the man behind a funky aviation décor brand.
32 SHOPKEEPER Peek into Bent Chair’s first offline store.
34 ALL ABOUT COLOUR Play with aquatic hues in your home. 38 BY HAND Learn to make stunning paper peonies.
HOME
41 SPACES Take a tour of Good Earth’s ‘natural’ workspace. 56 TREND Explore the rising love for concrete in home décor. 60 PLANTINGS Learn to create
21
INSTANT IMPACT Infuse the
beauty of botanicals into your home.
58
a flourishing terrace garden.
64 NEW IN THE MARKET The
SOLUTIONS Four stylish ways
to stash your crockery.
latest on products and services.
COVER STORY
68 GOLDEN GIRL Actor Karisma Kapoor talks about living life on her own terms.
STYLEMAKERS
75 THE A-TEAM Know the 10
new names creating a buzz with their innovative brands.
on the
cover
Karisma Kapoor opens up about life away from the arc lights.—68 The story behind Good Earth’s forest-themed studio—41 Four bold makeup looks—85 Yummy coconut desserts—109 The new trailblazers—75
48
INSPIRATION Replete with tons of fresh ideas, this US blogger’s home is all things bohemian, colourful and delightfully eclectic. 8�
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September 2017
photograph by abhay singh creative direction by anuradha sen styled by mohit rai hair & makeup by subhash vagal shirt h&m skirt lola jacket lavish alice shoes intoto location: courtesy jw marriot mumbai juhu
contents BEAUTY
90 SKINCARE How to deal with cellulite. 92 KNOW YOUR BRAND Just B Au Natural’s tryst with sustainable beauty.
93 CARE The multitasking products you need right away.
94 WELLNESS Your detox plan before the festive season makes an appearance. 96 REVIEW We test treatments and products, exclusively for you. 98 KNOW HOW What the beauty shelves are offering this month.
LIVING
99 A SLICE OF LIFE The latest lowdown on lifestyle. 102 BOOKS Excerpts, new reads and recommendations.
62
FUNDAMENTALS Know all about caladiums and how to plant them.
85
MAKEUP Take notes to flaunt this season’s bold beauty looks.
104 PASSION How a 26-year-old left law to pursue her dream of acting. 105 TELEVISION Interior designer Ashiesh Shah on his all-new home décor TV show. 106 NUTRITION What you need to know about salt and its intake.
108 KNOW HOW Brush up on the latest health and wellness news.
FOOD
114 EVERYDAY SPECIAL Quick, healthy dishes to take you through the week.
119 DRINKS Ten things you need to
know about Peru’s favourite spirit, pisco.
120 BUILD A BETTER DISH Three new
ways to cook with carrots.
122 BETTER COOK Enjoy the goodness of fruits in the form of freezer jams. 124 GOOD TO BUY Statement-making teapots that you will love.
IN EVERY ISSUE
100
PARENTING Inculcate the meaning of real beauty in your kids.
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109
CELEBRATE Four desserts that explore the sweet side of coconut.
12 EDITOR’S LETTER 16 BETWEEN FRIENDS 18 SOCIAL MEDIA 20 BHG LOVES What’s tugging at our
heart strings this month. 126 RESOURCE 128 I DID IT An innovator turns a discarded tractor into a hip bar table for his house.
EDITOR’S LETTER
Of all the things I have read about style and being stylish, I love what Gore Vidal has to say on the subject: “Style is knowing who you are, what you want to say, and not giving a damn.” What I admire about this interpretation is that contrary to stereotypes, it doesn’t limit style to fashion. It elevates it into the sphere of living, of thinking, of breaking new ground. And it was exactly these things that Team BHG had in mind when putting together this ‘Stylemakers’ issue. We were looking beyond sartorial influencers, to applaud those whose work and ideas are creating different experiences. Individuals who are doing something new and setting trends. We scoured the genres of décor, design, food, lifestyle, wellness, travel, fashion, and beauty to find people like Ishrat Sahgal of Mishcat Co, who is repurposing old sarees to create beautiful
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So, if you’ve been rt looking for some sort of inspiration to shake you off that ennui, maybe you’ll find it in the next few pages…
Pre k Mathew Preetika h Editor instagram: @preetikamathew
PHOTOGRAPH: KARAN TAKULIA
SETTING THE BAR
carpets; Aditi Dugar and Prateek Sadhu of Masque restaurant in Mumbai, who are championing the farm-to-fork movement using only indigenous produce; Jessica Jayne of Pahadi Local, whose organic Himalayan products are setting a new standard in the Indian beauty industry; and Sahar Mansoor, founder of the brand Bare Necessities, who is actively involved in promoting a zero-waste lifestyle. The 10 trailblazers we shortlisted are all new names that need to be on your radar (page 75). It’s not just this feature—we have created an issue that is chock-full with people doing things differently. There is Simran Lal (of Good Earth) whose unconventional, seeped-in-nature workspace inspires the label’s beautiful designs (page 41); the new aviation home décor brand Woodfeather (page 30); and actor Shraddha Srinath who gave up a career in law and recently won the Best Actress (Kannada) Filmfare Award (page 104). And then there is our cover girl Karisma Kapoor. Entering the film industry at the age of 17, against the wishes of her family, to eventually leaving it and now enjoying time as a single parent raising her two kids, Karisma is truly living life on her own terms. That she is also incredibly well-dressed, boasting an easy chic style, adds to how she has evolved over the years. She spoke to us at length about her home, family and how she is enjoying life (page 68).
INDIA
PREETIKA MATHEW Editor Deputy Editor Senior Features Editor Art Director Senior Designer Deputy Manager (Digital) Senior Editorial Executive
NANDINI BANERJEE MEGHNA MENON ANURADHA SEN PRITAM SINGH PALLAVI PHUKAN SUDHALIKA VERMA
PRODUCTION Production Director RITESH ROY Deputy Manager MANOJ CHAWLA Prepress Executive DINESH MASIH ADVERTISING SALES Business Head (Gurugram) SONALI ROY (9810640362) Senior General Manager (Kolkata) SUJIT K. BOSE (9831751126) Regional Manager (Bengaluru) DEVEN SINGH (7026347081) Regional Manager (Mumbai) REKHA BILLAVA (9819002934) Manager (Delhi) ANKIT SAXENA (9717074422) Vice President International Sales
SANJIV BISARIA
MARKETING & ACTIVATION Senior Manager SNIGDHA SHARMA (9540085178) Executive NALINI PRASAD (8447297692)
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BETTER HOMES AND GARDENS Vol. 11, Issue 6
Copyright © 2014 Exposure Media Marketing Pvt. Ltd. Plot no. 378-379, Second Floor Udyog Vihar, Phase IV, Gurugram- 122015, Haryana. All rights reserved throughout the world. Reproduction in any manner is prohibited. Published by Xavier Collaco from Exposure Media Marketing Pvt. Ltd. Plot no. 378-379, Second Floor Udyog Vihar, Phase IV, Gurugram- 122015, Haryana. Printed at Kala Jyothi Process Pvt ltd, S.No.185, Kondapur village, Serilingampally municipality, Ranga Reddy district, Hyderabad-500 133. Editor: Preetika Mathew. Better Homes & Gardens does not take responsibility for returning unsolicited publication material. All disputes are subject to the exclusive jurisdiction of competent courts and forums in Delhi/New Delhi only. Opinions expressed in the articles are of the authors and do not necessarily reflect those of the editors or publishers. While the editors do their utmost to verify information published they do not accept responsibility for its absolute accuracy. Unsolicited material is sent at the owner’s risk and the publisher accepts no liability for loss or damage. Materials in this publication may not be reproduced, whether in part or in whole, without the consent of Exposure Media Marketing Pvt. Ltd.
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in your words PLUS: How to Make Companion Planting Work For You
AUGUST 2017 `�125
dia mirza Bright Spark
pinterestworthy
A Chennai Apartment Goes Scandinavian
THE ACTOR OPENS UP HER SUN-LIT HOME
THE POWER OF PINK
SEE, LEARN & GO PRO
GET PEONY HUES TO MAKE A STRONG DÉCOR STATEMENT
100
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I love your magazine so much. And before I got my hands on the August issue, I saw the cover on Instagram. Ever since, I had been so excited since there was an article on hand lettering in it and I love hand lettering. Kudos to your team! Shanti Javadekar, via Instagram
Hooked and booked
One of the things that I like in any magazine is the review of books, and I was delighted to see one in your June-July issue. The Lanka Princess, the review of which was in the latest August 2017 issue, has given a new dimension to the role of Surpanakha,
who all of us knew or read as infatuated with both Ram and Laxman. However, author Kavita Kane’s vision has created an altogether new Surpanakha, the woman who may be troubled but is definitely empowered. I know, it will be difficult to convince most people who know her from Valmiki’s Ramayana. A nice attempt, indeed. Venkat Rao, Mysore
Magazine for all
Please accept my wishes on your milestone 10th anniversary. While I stay in Chennai, I spend a lot of my time in a small, sleepy town in South India, where I don’t have access to your magazines. But when I returned to Chennai and got hold of all my pending copies, I could feel my heart beating excitedly. The March 2017 issue is a keeper. The story on Juhi Chawla was commendable. It focused not only on her glamorous film career but also on the woman who balances her work, marriage and kids in a mature and sensible manner. Needless to say, my favourite topics in your magazine are nutrition, garden trends and styles made simple. My head is buzzing with the new ideas that I want to try. So, thank you for welcoming me back to Chennai with the gorgeous issues. I particularly love the way you
cater to all sections of a woman’s life, unlike the flashy fashion magazines which have only gloss but no life. Bhuvana R., Chennai
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QUILTING DREAMS
One of the key trends this season, the quilt is giving an extra texture and drama to the handbags and shoes. The padding and stitching technique not only lends dimension, but also offers a sophisticated finish. Choose your look from Lavie’s collection.
Available at www.lavieworld.com. `2,099 onwards FOR THE LATEST LAUNCHES, VISIT LAVIE WORLD ON INSTAGRAM
on the web
We are social, we are round-the-clock and we are here to give you the freshest updates.
BEHIND THE SCENES
▲
FACEBOOK BEEN TRYING OUR BEAUTY DIYs? There’s more coming up, so that you can prep up for the festive season and look your best. Stay tuned.
INSTAGRAM M FROM SALADS AND DIPS, to curries, desserts and drinks, we’ve got a recipe a day (and, sometimes, more) for you. These are easy, quick and, of course, delicious. If you’re trying them out at home, put up pictures and tag us, so that we can share the love. You could even mail your experiments to us.
ALL WORK AND LOTS OF PLAY! Here’s a look at what goes on behind the scenes at our cover shoot. It really does take a lot of teamwork to put it all together.
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Executive Realness Power dressing is back—this time with the hint of the nineties. Structured and sleek COMPACT BAGS with SNAKESKIN TEXTURES are just what one needs to make an impact. Indulge in Lavie’s dark hued minimalistic bags that make them perfect for the office!
Available at www.lavieworld.com. `2,099 onwards FOR THE LATEST LAUNCHES, VISIT LAVIE WORLD ON INSTAGRAM
BHG LOVES Take this chair home for ` 38,000. For more info, visit alankaram.in.
WEAVES OF TIME
Alankaram design studio focuses on custom-made furniture that is characterised by dierent colours. One such product is their Puoli chair, made with two semi-circular halves and upholstered with a traditional and vibrant fabric. Just as perfect for the living area as it is for the lounge, this is the ideal bright accent to liven up any space.
ideas for living well
OBSESSED WITH
STYLING: JESSICA THOMAS
BOTANICALS
The late 18th century marked the peak of the golden age of botanical illustrations. Stylised reproductions of these historical motifs infuse a room with a touch of romanticism while pleasing the nature lover in you. text by eugenia santiesteban soto | photographs by jacob fox
fresh | instant impact
THE WISHING TREE
Scandinavian-style florals deliver the natural appeal of a garden (without all the hard work) while lending an outdoorsy feel to your home.
1 Lamp Borrowing cues from
picturesque French gardens is this delicate lamp. Price on request, Tresorie, at Tresorie outlets, Mumbai.
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2 Wall Art Enhance your room or office with this dainty, attractive framed art. ` 950, Whistling Yarns, at whistlingyarns.com
3 Cushion Cover In soothing
yellow hues and tassels in orange, this is a perfect accent piece. ` 1,145, Vajor, at vajor.com
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4 Wall Plate A clean design
and intricate pattern makes this a stand-alone item. ` 799, Cyahi, at cyahi.com
5 Trunk Boxes These busy, printed blooms are packed with English charm. ` 1,100, The Wishing Chair, at wishingchair.in
6 Folder This timeless, classic
design is a lovely way to store your papers. ` 650, The Papier Project, at thepapierproject.com
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7 Tea Cozy Bring cheer to your tea
soirées with this addition. ` 1,850 (part of set), Idam, at idamstore.com
8 Dohar Brighten your bedroom
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with this bright blanket. ` 3,300, Freedom Tree, freedomtree.in ■
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fresh | accents
style trek
We bring major fashion capitals—Milan, New York, London, Tokyo and Paris—to your home. Take inspiration and recreate their vibe in your space. photographs by irina usova styling by mahima shukla
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MODERN MILAN
Indulge in la dolce vita of this Italian city with rich, bold products. 1, 6 & 11. Brass top lamp, `�12,800; Leaning Tower of Pisa bookends, `�8,999; Lacquered study table, `�1,70,000, Apartment 9 2. Model sail boat, `�22,580, Ishatvam 3. Wooden platter, `�4,800, Crazy Daisy 4. Memorabilia camera clock, `�3,500, Navya 5. Wooden tapas plate, `�600, Pepperfry 7. Wooden cake stand, `�2,100, Fabindia 8. Golden candle stand, `�2,950, Kontempra 9. Leather hip flask, `�550, Gifts of Love 10. Magazine stand, `�2,700, Quirk-Style Story.
ASSISTED BY LIMATOLA LONGKUMER AND NIDHIE GUJRAL
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GATSBY’S NEW YORK
Opt for an ultra-glam, 20s-inspired art deco expression if you fancy the Big Apple.
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1, 4, 5, 7 & 14. Lamp, `�24,300; Leather
arm chair, `�1,10,000; Art deco table, `�28,700; Stag tongs, `�2,999; Art décor cupboard, `�3,30,000, Apartment 9 2. Goldembossed cushion, `�1,450, Nur 3. Gold candle stand, `�8,999, Bruzae 6. Black lacquered tray, `�2,990, Quirk-Style Story 8. Crystal decanter, `�6,500, Kontempra 9. Empire state building sculpture, `�8,999, Bent Chair 10. Brass pineapple, `�7,200, Nicobar 11. Martini glass `�5,249 (set of 2), Good Earth 12. Martini shaker, `�1,500, Address Home 13. Crystal candelabra, `�6,999, Pure Home + Living.
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QUICK TIP
Metal and leather make for a bold statement. But don’t go overboard with different metallic shades.
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� September 2017 |
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fresh | accents LONDON CALLING
Inspired by English afternoons, tea and royalty, this look embodies a modern-meets-classic style. 1, 3 & 11. Velvet chair, `�1,10,000; Assorted roses, `�2,610 (each stem); Trolley, `�1,30,000, Apartment 9 2 & 8. Floral cushion, `�2,400; Cake stand, `�4,500, Good Earth 4 & 10.
Woven basket, `�2,000; Vintage telephone, `�10,000, Nivasa 5. Ceramic pug, `�5,161, Bent Chair 6 & 9. Clock stool platter, `�8,900; Tea pot, `�2,215, Crazy Daisy 7. Floral tea cup, `�2,500, Home Loft 12. Horse head decanter, `�24,000, Ishatvam 13. Ceramic bus, `�1,700, Navya 14. Floral box, `1,270, Gifts of Love.
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LOVE IN TOKYO
Urban Japan is all about soft greys and minimalism, while still staying true to its oriental patterns and prints.
1. Navy silk cushion cover, `�830, Fabindia 2 & 13. Satin cushion covers, `�1,000 (for two), Pepperfry 3 & 12. Silk cushion cover, `�3,200 (for two), Shades of India 4, 6 & 7. Geisha cushion cover,
`�1,550; Sake pourer with glasses and tray, `�4,200; Chopsticks (with stand), `�800, Nicobar 5. Hand-painted tray, `�7,000, Crazy Daisy 8. Festival dohar, `�11,500, Safomasi 9. Cotton textured blanket, `�10,900, Nur 10. Silk stitched bedspread, `�14,400, INV Home 11. Foil-print cushion, `�2,870, Good Earth.
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fresh | accents
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AN EVENING IN PARIS
Embrace French chic with rich colours and statement-making vintage accents. 1, 9 & 10. Light fixture, `�38,500; Fringe
boudoir lamp, `�30,000; Velvet couch, `�92,000, Apartment 9 2. ‘The Zahir’, `�50,000, Nemozine 3, 14 & 15. Tapestry cushions, `�2,190 each, Home Artisan 4. Floral pots, `�3,000 (for 2), Quirk-Style Story 5. Wall hanging, `�5,100, Navya 6. Victorian vases, `�10,000 (for 2), Ishatvam 7. Eiffel Tower sculpture, `�5,529, Bent Chair 8. Cycle floral pot, `�1,050, Crazy Daisy 11. Embossed tray, `�4,500, INV Home 12. Carafe, `�11,600, Good Earth 13. Wine glasses, `�932 (for 2), Pepperfry. ■
QUICK TIP
Get the French look with one dramaticcoloured wall and a painted ceiling—blue, lavender and misty greys are your shades.
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LOCATION: COURTESY APARTMENT 9 |
September 2017
For more info, see Resources
fresh | designer
MA, AKSHAY SHAR DFEATHER OO W R, DE FOUN
EACH PIECE IS INSPIRED BY A THEME AND GIVEN A NAME. SO YOU CAN CHOOSE FROM THEIR READYMADE R DESIGNS OR D HAVE THEM H CUSTOMISED. C
wings of imagination
With his one-of-a-kind Indian aviation décor brand WoodFeather, Akshay Sharma is taking his passion for planes to newer heights. text by neha mehta
AN ENTHRALLING TAKE OFF
Akshay Sharma’s love for flying didn’t take a backseat even when he wasn’t able to pursue it professionally owing to his weak eyesight. In fact, he channeled his enthusiasm towards creating an unconventional aviation décor brand, which specialises exclusively in handcrafted airplane propellers for the home. “It was my relentless quest to get a propeller for my home, since the one I had ordered online from the US got lost in transit. Out of sheer frustration, I made one and put it up in my house. That piece was hugely appreciated and anyone who saw it wanted one as well. That’s how WoodFeather was born,” says Akshay, 38. For him, propellers go way beyond being just artefacts; they symbolise the soaring spirit of an individual. As a result, Akshay
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started experimenting with the designs two years ago and after scoping for the right materials and artisans, launched his first collection in March 2017.
artisans work on it. Customised propellers are an outcome of almost three-four weeks of labour,” he adds.
CRAFTMANSHIP AT ITS BEST
While aviation décor is a new category in the Indian market, propellers are accepted home décor items internationally. “But given that the industry here is witnessing a paradigm shift, quirky and unconventional styles are finding a significant place,” says Akshay.
WoodFeather’s propellers are handcrafted from logs of wood—they aren’t machine-cut or moulded. Themes range from rugged old-school designs and glossy polished finishes to comic book superhero props. Every piece features a high level of craftsmanship, and there is also the option to design keeping in mind customer preferences. “Right from the theme to shape to colour polishing and finishing, everything is immaculately done,” says Akshay. “The piece goes to a minimum of five different workshops in Mumbai’s suburbs, where skilled craftsmen and
PROMISING START
THE NEXT FLIGHT
Though still at a nascent stage, Akshay wants to focus primarily on custom-built propellers, which will include more personalised details and messages, making them beautiful mementos. “We are also going to collaborate with renowned folk artists and painters soon,” he says. ■
fresh | shopkeeper
bending the rules
After a successful online run, Bent Chair’s first store, in Gurgaon, brings to you innovative designs that have a global appeal. text by nandini banerjee
INSIDER GUIDE Bent Chair also provides bespoke services in terms of the choice of upholstery and wood finishes.
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GOING OFFLINE While functioning online had its benefits—limited real estate expense, geographic reach and easy inventory management—the brand was ready for brick-and-mortar retail.
September 2017
CUSTOMER SERVICE The store is a great way of ensuring that people understand what they are buying. It enables the customer to touch, feel and experience, before welcoming the product in their homes.
CRAFTSMANSHIP The brand’s motto is to retain Indian aesthetics, while producing eclectic designs that are not only preferred by the millennials but are also conversation starters.
It was their quirky designs, unusual silhouettes and affordable luxury furniture that first turned the spotlight on Bent Chair last year. Then available only online, such was the overwhelming response to their products that within a year, the brand opened its first store in Gurgaon, six months ago. Natasha Jain, the 28-year-old founder believes it was the vision of creating a go-to home décor and furnishing brand that was manufactured in India but with a global appeal, that has made all the difference. Bent Chair’s first physical store at Gurgaon’s busy MG Road is a breath of fresh air. From distinct wing chairs to unusually shaped accent mirrors and opulent bed sets, the space stocks all the products that are available online. The studio-store comprises a lounge, dining area, bedroom, pantry and conference room, all designed as a means to experience how Bent Chair pieces will look in everyday settings. Another USP of the brand is that all their pieces are limited edition; the conceptualisation and manufacturing is driven by Natasha’s father, Neeraj Jain, the only Indian to be awarded the Red-Dot Design Award thrice. “We have a state-of-the-art manufacturing unit in Ambala, Haryana, and five manufacturing facilities that house the latest woodworking machinery,” says Natasha proudly. ■
Experience Quality, Design and Innovation World’s first Liebherr ExperienceCenter in Mumbai Liebherr Appliances India Pvt. Ltd. Durolite House, New Link Road Andheri (West), Mumbai
Visit now! Customer Helpline: 1800 2333 444 customercare.lhi@liebherr.com
blog.liebherr.com/appliances/IN/ LiebherrAppliancesIndia
home.liebherr.com
fresh | all about colour
sea shades
This spectrum of aquatic hues, from seafoam to teal, has us looking to the coast for inspiration. Take a cue and pair these shades with seagrass and rattan accents. text by monika biegler eyers | photographs by kat teutsch styling by marcus hay
PRODUCED BY JESSICA THOMAS.
DECORATOR TIP Sea glass beads make lovely accents.
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PHOTOGRAPHS: AMY NEUNSINGER (ROOM); CHRIS BRANTLEY (PORTRAIT)
WALL BLADE OF GRASS 7566 ASIANPAINTS (SIMILAR TO WALLCOVERING COLOUR)
#BLUELOVES GREEN When it comes to pairing shades of blue and green, no one is more dedicated than US designer Mark D. Sikes, whose signature Instagram hashtag celebrates the palette. “When brought inside, it’s the most magical combination,” he says. Especially apt for decorating, these coastal tones “feel fresh, like you’re truly living indoor-outdoor.”
WATERY HUES
MISS GO-LIGHTLY Paired with shiny nickel hardware, this cheery shade livens up cabinets. Shoreline 19BG 61/207 Dulux
TEAL TONE For maximum effect,
paint both trim and walls in this saturated midtone. Sitka 2459 Nerolac
NEPHRITE Take a cue from decorator Miles Redd, and try this soft hue on the front door. Coral Reef 6201 Jotun
TEAL WE MEET AGAIN SEA TREASURE Add drama to Warm undertones woodwork, like built-in add a subtle bookshelves, with a glow to a brightly glossy sheen. Teal Blast lit room. Ocean Breeze 845 British Paints 10038 Nippon Paint
� September 2017 |
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fresh | all about colour
CARIBBEAN HIDEAWAY
In the jungle along Playa Grande Beach in the Dominican Republic, US designer Celerie Kemble played with blue-greens to emphasise the Victorian architecture of nine beachside bungalows. The pale seafoam ceiling draws eyes up and creates a sense of coolness, while teal frames Colonial-style shutters. A mix of vintage accessories continues the casual island vibe. ■
COOL HUNTING
HOLIDAY SERVING TRAY `430, Zufolo Designs, zufolodesigns.com TEALIGHT HOLDER `250, The Wishing Chair, wishingchair.in ANVAYA TALL CABINET `19,290, Furnspace, furnspace.com
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September 2017
AURO STUDY TABLE LAMP ` 5,219, Orange Tree, orangetree.co.in
COTTON SINGLE QUILT `6,500, TUNI, tuniinteriors.com
PHOTOGRAPHS: PATRICK CLINE (ROOM)
CUT WORK CAKE STAND `1,540, Freedom Tree, freedomtree.in
fresh | by hand
blooming tales
The art of making paper flowers may be long forgotten, but Uurmi Bhatia of Mi Ikigai seems convinced about shining the spotlight on it again. She gives BHG a step-by-step tutorial on making stunning peonies and styling a paper-flower bouquet. text by nandini banerjee | photographs by uurmimehul photography
DECORATOR TIP Since crepe paper soaks liquid, you can spritz your favourite perfume on these pretty owers, so that their fragrance is as good as real.
WHAT YOU WILL NEED: • Scissors
• Pliers (to cut the length of the stem)
• Fevicol or glue • Yellow crepe paper • Duplex crepe paper (peach and white used here)
• Pre-wrapped green wire (to be cut into stems)
1
[�MAKE YOUR OWN�]
PAPER PEONIES Gather all the tools and materials listed.
1. Cut the shapes as shown in the picture (1). While drawing the pattern on crepe paper, make sure that the grains of the paper are parallel to the arrows on the patterns, as the paper stretches only one way and you don’t want it to tear.
For Uurmi Bhatia, everything has to have a meaning and a story. She chose the name Mi Ikigai because it tells her story: “Ikigai is a Japanese word that means ‘the purpose of your being’, while Mi is what I often sign my name off as, instead of Uurmi,” she says.
2. Shape all the cut petals by gently stretching them in the centre of each petal in the manner shown in the picture (2a). Hold and gently stretch with your thumbs. Repeat for all the petals (2b). 2
a
b � September 2017 |
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fresh | by hand 3
3. For the centre of the flower, cut fringes out of the yellow paper (3a). Apply glue on the fringes and wrap the paper around the top of the stem (3b). Let dry completely. 4. Start sticking the petals around the centre with glue (4a). Stick three petals in the first round and four petals in the second, overlapping the first three slightly (4b). 5. Repeat the above steps with different patterns of flowers.
b
a 4
Things to remember ■ While
shaping the petals, use a stack of three petals at a time, since this paper is delicate. Using three at a time makes the paper sturdier. Nevertheless, try to be gentle.
■ If
you are familiar with a hot glue gun, use that to stick the petals.
b
a 5
■ You
can use handcrafted peonies to add warmth to your home décor (use simple vases or discarded crockery as a base), or stick them on wrapped gifts for a statement packaging. Remember, paper bouquets last longer than fresh ones, and are more sustainable.
CUSTOMISE THE CREPE PAPER WITH COLOURS OF YOUR CHOICE. USING THE DIP-DYE METHOD, YOU CAN CREATE SHADES OF A SINGLE PALETTE. UURMI BHATIA, MI IKIGAI
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FOLLOW AT INSTAGRAM.COM/MI_IKIGAI LOCATION COURTESY: DISHA DOSHI GANDHI STUDIOS
where life happens
Second Nature
Originally conceptualised as a forest home, Good Earth’s Delhibased office is an unusual space, featuring trees in the middle of a busy work area and a courtyard that doubles up as a design hub. text by nandini banerjee photographs by arun+anwita creative direction by anuradha sen
COMING SOON The cushions are from the new pre-festive Reva & Sandhya collection.
home | spaces
DON’T CLUTTER YOUR WORKSPACE. MAKE ONE AREA THE MAIN SPACE WHERE YOU SIT. LET A FEW PERSONAL OBJECTS STAND OUT—BE IT CUSHIONS, A SCULPTURE OR A CERAMIC CENTREPIECE FOR THE TABLE.
Good Earth CEO Simran Lal sits in her office, where a mulberry tree stands tall next to her work desk.
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N
estled amidst the greenery of Delhi’s Sultanpur area, a beautiful old haveli is where the heart of Good Earth resides. The ‘Garden Studio’, as its workspace is called, has been home to the brand and its creative processes since the inception of the design house 21 years ago. It is here that their design and product development departments, and front-end teams involved in the retail and marketing functions are based; those much-loved gorgeous patterns and motifs are thought of and brainstormed over copious cups of tea, while sitting under the shade of a gigantic peepul tree. “The farm has been with us for over 30 years now. My mother, Anita Lal, pursued her passion for pottery here in the late 1970s. She worked with local potters, and it was her first step in a creative journey that eventually set the foundation for Good Earth. Even today, you can spot an urn that she created in those days, in the courtyard. It is a beautiful reminder of how it all started,” says Simran Lal, CEO of Good Earth.
A VISION OF THE PAST
Resonating with the brand’s core design philosophy—‘Van Vaibhav’, meaning a world that is in harmony with nature— the workspace was built keeping in mind the tranquillity of a forest. So, as you walk through the main gate, leaving the cacophony of the city behind, you are welcomed into a sheltering canopy of langda mango trees, and fragrant roses, jasmines, sunflowers and water lilies. “It would have been difficult for us to tell the stories of enchanted India in our language of mindfulness, had we been sitting in a glass and chrome office, many feet above the ground. Here, amongst nature, with the birds chirping away happily, we turn our creative ideas into tactile form,” declares Simran. September 2017 |
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home | spaces
A FOREST RETREAT
However, it is in the way the workrooms have been designed that the beauty of the studio lies—a series of glass enclosures around the spacious courtyard, which integrate existing natural elements. No trees were chopped down to accommodate them—in fact, Simran’s workspace has a huge mulberry trunk bang in the middle. “As Good Earth and the team flourished, the space too organically evolved to become a selfsufficient unit. The only difference is that there aren’t any cubicles. One must walk through a tree-lined courtyard to meet with a team member. Everything is done in glass, so that there is an easy visual connection. Otherwise, you get stuck in isolation. We all step out to have tea or lunch together. We use the courtyard in a very cohesive manner,” explains Simran. The Good Earth core team comprises primarily of women, and the brand has ensured that the work place makes its employees feel at home. Each section of the studio is a collective reflection of all that inspires the team. So, there are references from personal travels, inspiring verses and words, shelves chock-full of books, mood and vision boards, and art all over.
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NATURAL HABITAT
Take a leaf out of Simran’s book to set up your office. KEEP IT PERSONAL Work environments come to life when you add your personality to them. The space should reflect your passions—your interests or travel souvenirs. These add character. CREATE AN ILLUSION OF SPACE The best way for that is to allow as much natural light in as possible. If you don’t have natural light, add a mirror that reflects something lovely. Keep the wall colours light—it doesn’t have to be white—like a soft taupe or grey. ADD FRESH FLOWERS This is all you need to infuse vibrant colour and a heady fragrance to a room. Just a few seasonal flowers in a narrow vase will make the space feel special. DON’ T JUS T PAINT YOUR WALL S Wallpapers go a long way in giving character to a room, and don’t need to be paired with much else. Big prints work in smaller rooms and wallpapers featuring tropical palms, vibrant frangipani flowers and exotic birds usher in the feeling of an oasis or paradise. ARTISTS AT WORK Deepshikha Khanna, opposite page, top, Head of Apparel Strategy and Product Development, in her ‘wardrobe’! Work in progress at the sampling unit, opposite page, below. Head designer Asha Madan, above, and artist Prabhash Adhikari, right, create those mesmerising designs.
September 2017 |
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home | spaces
HOME AWAY FROM HOME “We work in this beautiful space, where everyone has the creative freedom to pursue their ideas and the entire team works passionately and in collaboration towards projects. What truly energises and excites us is creating a business with a purpose greater than commerce alone. We want to sustain Indian traditions and livelihoods through innovation and fine quality that supports artisans, giving them dignity and pride in their own craft heritage, and elevating their work to a level of original luxury. For us, the genesis of a strong bottom-line is at the drawingboard and this thought trickles down to our work culture,” says Simran passionately. ■
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THE ANNUAL COLLECTION FOR 2017 IS A THROWBACK TO THE 21 YEARS OF GOOD EARTH, CALLED VAN VAIBHAV— OUR CORE INSPIRATION.
September 2017 |
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home | inspiration
PROVING GROUND Savvy decorating tricks turn a US blogger’s New Orleans ranch house into his dream home.
text by deb schwartz | photographs by paul costello styling by liz strong
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The home that Ryan Bennett and Dabito (opposite, with dogs Sterling and Luigi) revamped is filled with a collection of art and objects, unified by repeating colours and materials. The theme in the sunroom, this photo, is blues and yellows and natural wood finishes.
home | inspiration
DECORATING WITH PLANTS IS AN EASY,���� CUT MONSTERA LEAVES HAVE AN ESPECIALLY LONG VASE LIFE.
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�� AFFORDABLE WAY TO FILL UP EMPTY SPACES. DABITO
T
THE 1960s SOFA WAS AN ONLINE FIND.
he ability to recognise your dream home sometimes means accepting faults and focusing on potential: You know that what you’re looking at isn’t perfect, but you also know you can make it perfect for you. For Dabito, a designer, photographer, stylist and blogger who goes by one name, a 1960s ranch house in the Gentilly neighbourhood of New Orleans, US, was just right for him and his partner Ryan Bennett, despite its scraggly front yard and dilapidated back shed. “It’s not like it was an amazing, super-modern house or an old house filled with architectural details. But we knew we could make it a special place,” he says. By using the same type of low-effort, high-impact decorating tricks he showcases on his blog, Old Brand New, Dabito and Ryan gave the house a refresh without spending a lot of money or doing any indoor renovations. Using their can-do spirit, they covered walls with dramatic paint colours or wallpapers, mixed thrift store finds and global accents, and deployed colourful, exotic patterns. The result is a space so appealing that it has thousands of fans on social media. As Dabito says and his house bears out, “You can make any space unique by filling it with good vibes and things that give people a sense of who you are.”
Although the living room has white walls, it reads as colourful, thanks to layers of accessories, including ceramics glazed in blues, striped pillows and throws from Peru and art framed in yellow. � September 2017 |
� 51
home | inspiration
WALL PRUSSIAN BLUE 7341 ASIAN PAINTS
WALLPAPER FIND SIMILAR ONES ON DDECOR.COM.
Top: In the sunroom, the plush velvet sofa (by Justina Blakeney for Jonathan Louis) is a modern counterpoint to the vintage décor and a prime napping spot. ■ Above: Blankets from Peru, prints from the Philippines and a second-hand throw rug layer on colour in the bedroom. ■ Opposite: Dabito (with Sterling) built this sleek, retro-look desk using off-the-shelf materials. Brass-colour spray paint spiffs up the metal brackets; for shelves, he used particle board (or chip board) rather than staining plywood.
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LEARN HOW TO MAKE DABITO’S SHELVES WITH THE STEP-BY-STEP GUIDE AT OLDBRANDNEW.COM.
home | inspiration
MAKING A GREAT ESCAPE
1
�STAIN IT
BLACK
Dabito appreciates black for its modern, dramatic feel and wanted to use it on the patio shelter. But Ryan took persuading. After six months of combing through pictures on Pinterest, avid gardener Ryan came around when he realised that the dark background would make his plants stand out.
2
MIX YOUR MATERIALS
They painted the cement foundation white to contrast with the matte black wall and chose inexpensive corrugated aluminum for the ceiling. The ceiling beams were stained the same rich walnut as their new wood fence.
3
MAKE IT MULTILEVEL
For the complex feel of an indoor room, Ryan and Dabito used plants and lighting at varying heights. At ground level, floor lanterns and potted plants, including
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palms, monstera, schefflera and cactuses, anchor the space. Hanging ferns and pendant lamps draw eyes up.
4
TAME THE ELEMENTS
Although the city is famous for its heat and humidity, evenings tend to be pleasant, even in summer. An outdoor ceiling fan and citronella candles (hidden inside exotic brass lanterns) keep things comfortable.
5
KEEP IT SOCIAL
A playful hanging chair and a low-slung sofa provide ample comfortable seating and enhance the welcoming feel. Upholstered in outdoor fabric, the sofa is durable enough to withstand all kinds of party fouls. ■
THE PATIO IS OUR HAPPY PLACE, WHERE WE LOUNGE AND ENTERTAIN FRIENDS ALL THROUGH THE YEAR. DABITO
STAIN BLACKENED BLACK 9938 WOODSHIELD EXTERIOR STAIN JOTUN
home | trend GOMAAD’S stationary organisers, in a set of three, are a great way to keep your work desk clutter-free.
cementing a style
With concrete increasingly being used in home décor, this building material is seeing a huge image makeover. BHG explores how it’s making a statement in our homes. text by meghna menon
C
oncrete finally seems to be shrugging off its boring undertones. Always looked upon as a hard, cold material, and its usage restricted to construction of buildings, gardens and outdoor furniture (not to mention a limiting colour palette), the material had never been considered a right home décor fit in India. Today, however, thanks to a few visionary designers and creative brands, this raw material is at the forefront of new trends.
THE CHANGE One can trace the development to the exposure to and influence of Scandinavian designs on home accessories in India. The result: An aesthetic that is minimal and textured. Marked by simplicity and functionality, concrete products are a perfect match. “Concrete, as a material, was never challenged this much,” says Amitanshu Shrivastava, founder, Amitansh Thinking Studio, a design studio in Jaipur. “But growth of technology, possibilities of fusion with other materials and infusion of colours is leading to people realising Keep time with minimal table clocks, below, by Gomaads. Desk accessories by Amitansh Thinking Studio, right, include a pin standccum-paperweight, and pen holders, created with marble as h tthe aggregate.
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These grey planters, left, by Gomaads perfectly complement the green of the bamboo stalks. The dresser, below, and the slim chest of drawers, bottom, by Portside Café are handcrafted using materials other than concrete but render that impression.
Concrete is a mix of cement, water and stone aggregate. The cement acts as a binding agent, making a paste when mixed with water and enveloping the aggregate. its potential in home décor.” It’s a thought that Malavika Singh Gupta, co-founder, Gomaads, a Noida-based design studio sculpting lifestyle products in concrete, echoes. She feels that “with exposure to this style and sensibility, through travel and platforms like Pinterest and Instagram, people are realising that the unbranded appeal of concrete items is possible.”
THE POSSIBILITIES The stark, industrial design of concrete products is a chic option for those who love design and are willing to try something new. And contrary to popular perception, it helps make the interiors warmer by opening up a world of possibilities. For instance, concrete furniture is a perfect excuse to add soft furnishings in bright colours, or can be accessorised with metallic or sequinned touches. Natural wood ups the cool shade of concrete while the vibrancy of green fits in with its grey. “The fact that something as raw and basic as concrete can be converted into gorgeous and functional accessories is what attracts someone to it,” says Malavika, whose brand was the first in India to dive into the unchartered waters of concrete design in 2013. In fact, Gomaads has changed the notion that concrete is meant to look hard and bulky by fashioning pendant lampshades that look like cloth. The bottom line,
as Amitanshu puts it, is to ensure functionality while retaining their simplicity. Even those who don’t work extensively with concrete recognise its potential. Early this year, Delhi-based furniture studio, Portside Café, introduced the Cement Series, a collection of furniture and home accessories that are inspired by cement, floors and peeling plasters on walls. “We captured the beauty and textures of the material, had the look printed on leather, and even combined it with brass and wood, to create a collection based on basic architectural forms,” says Bobby Aggarwal, design director of the brand.
THE RESPONSE Slow at first, the trend is catching on, with designers wanting products customised. Malavika explains that lighting brands ask for the concrete bit to be designed while they provide technical expertise. The same goes for furniture designers, who design the wooden or leather portion of the product. It appeals to those who are looking at something fresh and minimal, who love the rawness of concrete products. Furthermore, the industry will soon see the inclusion of lightweight concrete, which further opens up possibilities. There is also translucent concrete—think a concrete lamp where the lampshade illuminates. Not available in India yet, Gomaads is looking to produce a collection soon. ■ � September 2017 |
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home | solutions
what a dish! Skip the mundane and instead put a new spin on traditional crockery storage to stash away in style.
1
3
2
1 window shopping
Achieve a rustic look by combining reclaimed-wood furniture pieces. Window frames can serve as doors.
2 dressed to impress
Transform an old armoire into a display hutch by removing the wardrobe door, painting the unit and dressing up the back surface with adhesive shelf liner.
3 built-in beauty
Save floor space with built-in storage that offers a combination of open shelves for display pieces and closed storage for bulkier items or stacks of linens.
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This kind of shelving is an attractive way to divide an open kitchen and a dining area. 4 modest display
Use a simple and inexpensive divided shelving unit as a modern china hutch. Insert cross dividers for DIY wine storage. â–
home | plantings
TERRACE GARDENING is a great way for you to get your produce without compromising on quality and cost.
raising the roof
I
f you ever go to the roof of your home or apartment and look around, the first thing you would probably notice is that the space is used as a storage for things that most likely belong in a landfill. So, what is
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stopping anyone from making that area beautiful? And if you’re nodding your heads to this, you’re the perfect person to read the basics of how to start your very own flourishing and gorgeous terrace garden.
Look into the basics first.
The time you’re willing to devote to your garden should be the foremost factor. Are you willing to spend a few minutes per day? The amount of space you have comes next, along with the amount of sunlight your rooftop or terrace is exposed to. One can grow leafy vegetables in a well-lit balcony but is it worth it? I would suggest that
PHOTOGRAPH: PETER KRUMHARDT
Delhi-based Karan Singh Parmar, the man behind Twelve Tomatoes, the popular flowers and terrace garden venture, not only specialises in exotic floral arrangements, but also has a lush, organic terrace garden he created from scratch. Here, Karan tells us how growing one’s own fresh, seasonal produce isn’t difficult. All it requires is patience and a whole lotta love.
you grow seasonal flowers and plants in your balcony, along with basic herbs like mint, tulsi and curry leaves—staples in every Indian kitchen. Also, be careful about the amount of weight you add to the terrace. I recommend looking at the architectural drawing of the building first. Add heavier pots around the periphery of your roof top or spread them around the beams, and definitely ensure that the weight is equally distributed.
Start small.
Especially if you’re a novice. See how it works for you. Get some sturdy plants and avoid buying exotic, expensive ones. You could start with money plants, asparagus fern, mother-in-law’s tongue and dracena. Most nurseries have seasonal flowers readily available, so you could add a few of those along with some saplings of seasonal vegetables. Try nurturing them for a few days and see how you (and the plants) fare. And don’t be disheartened if a few wilt and die. It’s bound to happen to someone starting out. So, take a chance.
Consider soil, sunlight and wind requirements.
Make your own soil mix with one part each of cocopeat, organic manure and soil. Cocopeat prevents water logging in your pots and mixing in organic manure ensures that your plants get their daily nutrients. Such a mix is also lightweight, as by adding cocopeat and manure to the soil, you can bring the weight down to almost 50%. One needs a fair amount of sunlight for plants to flourish. But if you have a rooftop with less sunlight, look at growing plants that do not require much sun—varieties of ferns, dracena, and umbrella pam. Areas that are prone to high velocity wind should avoid tall and linear plants on their balconies. Such plants always tip over with powerful gusts of winds since the roots are not planted in the ground. Avoid placing plants on the ledge for the same reason. You don’t want to be paying for your neighbour’s new car!
Karan’s own rooftop garden is a vibrant, flourishing space.
SEASONAL REWARDS Summer is a good time to plant tomatoes, gourds, cucumber, corn and beans around most part of the country. By the end of August, you can start with carrots, cauliflower, brussels sprouts, spinach, lettuce, etc. September is also the right time to start with your late winter blooms. Get organic fertilisers.
Spraying these from time to time is of utmost importance. For instance, neem oil, which is easily available at all seed shops and plant nurseries, is an easy and effective way to get rid of pests. Add organic compost from time to time, ideally before each planting season. There are also many organic plant growth boosters, available at nurseries and online, that provide them with the necessary nutrients.
Have your basic gardening tools in place.
What you require are pruning shears, a weeder, a small shovel, a water hose or a watering can and gloves to protect your hands. And you’re good to go!
Go ahead, create your own terrace garden.
Start with drawing a rough layout of your terrace or roof top, keeping in mind whether you’re going for an ornamental garden, a vegetable one or a mix of both. For instance, the garden
in our apartment building in divided into various sections. The central area is dedicated mostly to ornamental plants like ferns, bamboo, vines etc. On either side of it are some vegetables, while the corners of the roof are dedicated to seasonal flowers that demand crisp sunlight for most part of the day. We also have a herb section of about 20 pots. Drawing a layout will also help you in choosing the number of plants that you’d like to nurture. One can always ask the local nursery for suggestions. Depending on the size of your plants, you will need to buy suitable pots. Prepare the soil mix, as mentioned before, and add it to your pots. Make sure that you transfer the plants into new pots either in the morning or evening, and keep the repotted plants in shade for a day or two to avoid wilting. Remember, gardening is an affair that involves a fair amount of patience. Rewards for exercising such a virtue is always fruitful, in this case, literally. So, dig away! ■ � September 2017 |
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home | fundamentals
CALADIUMS
Brighten shady spots with the addition of caladiums—now available in newer colours, patterns and habits, thanks to the breakthroughs in modern breeding. text by marty ross | photographs by jacob fox The showy, heart-shape leaves of caladiums turn a garden’s sun-dappled spots into destinations. They’re made for shade, but some tolerate sun.
1
1
‘FLORIDA SWEETHEART’ A coquettish ribbon of green-edged ruffled pink leaves. 12–18" tall
2
2
‘RADIANCE’ Glowing red veins pump up these extra-large leaves. 18–24" tall
3
4
‘WHITE CHRISTMAS’ Bold graphic contrasts make this one of the most popular caladiums. 18–24" tall
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‘GINGERLAND’ With winsome pink freckles on a field of green and white. 12–18" tall
5
‘CHINOOK’ Elegant, wavy-edge leaves that have salmon pink centres. 18–24" tall
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6
‘POSEY PINK’ Morning sun brings out a rich pink blush. 12–18" tall
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7
‘FRECKLES’ Sun-tolerant with a pink heart and snazzy white spots. 12–18" tall
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CALADIUMS HAVE SHY FLOWERS. IT’S THEIR MAGNIFICENT LEAVES THAT STAR IN THE SHADE GARDEN.
PERFECT PARTNERS
Caladiums look great with these other shadeloving plants.
COLEUS White-splashed caladiums combine with any showy coleus for an annual display.
PHOTOGRAPHS: GREG SCHEIDEMANN (COLEUS); ROB CARDILLO (WAX BEGONIA AND HOSTA)
Each caladium tuber will produce 30 to 50 leaves. A pot of caladiums, right, is like an exuberant exclamation point in the garden.
Caladiums are splashy tropical and semitropical plants, native to Central and South America. Their spectacular leaves grow from knobby tubers—a little like shrivelled potatoes. Whether you buy tubers or plants growing in pots, wait until the air and soil temperatures have warmed up before planting: When you’re comfortable outside in short sleeves, it’s time. ■ GROWING CONDITIONS Caladiums are easy to grow in well-drained garden soil or potting soil in a spot that gets dappled light. They need moisture to produce an extravagant show, so choose a place where it will be easy for you to water and add a layer of mulch to preserve soil moisture.
■ HAPPY TOGETHER Plant in groups of three, five or seven tubers that are spaced 6 to 8 inches apart. Once they’re up and growing, they quickly form a mass of colourful foliage. ■ WHICH END IS UP? Look for the growth eyes, which resemble the eyes on potatoes. Plant the tubers with the eyes facing up, about 2 inches below the surface of the soil. ■ GIVE THEM A NUDGE A light application of slow-release fertiliser encourages plants to produce lots of leaves. Don’t overdo it though; too much will weaken the stems. ■ PROBLEMS Tubers rot if planted before the weather warms up. Too
much sun may burn the leaves; too little moisture eventually causes leaves to wither. ■ COMING BACK To save caladiums for the next year: Around March, dig up tubers, cut off the leaves, wash off the soil and let the tubers dry thoroughly. Store them in a paper bag or a box in a warm place through the hot summer. Or you could even treat them as annuals and buy some more the next year.
WAX BEGONIA Pairing pink wax begonias and pink-leaf caladiums makes a no-fail combination.
HOSTA Other large-leaf plants like hostas do especially well alongside caladiums.
■ WHAT’S NEW Hybridisers have been introducing vigorous caladiums featuring rich colours and sturdier stems. Look for ‘Puppy Love’, ‘White Cap’ and ‘Day Dreamer’. ■ � September 2017 |
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home | new in the market
Dark Power
Nagold by Häfele has launched the ‘J’ Series—a sophisticated range of second-generation, builtin kitchen and home appliances, integrated into a uniform design and aesthetic. The appliances exude power, elegance and technological expertise, and provide for a holistic cooking, cleaning and cooling experience in your homes. For more information, visit hafele.com.
LUXE LIFE
Maison du Luxe, a bespoke furniture studio by interior designer duo, Nilu and Gobind Kapur, recently introduced the House Proud collection, which marries function and utility with relaxed sophistication. From beds, sofas and wardrobes, to dining and accent chairs, tables and consoles, each design is tastefully crafted with a rich character. The collection has a classic, fusion and contemporary look, while being a play on contrasts and styles. To know more about the exquisite range, visit maisonduluxe.in.
TO SPAIN,
MY LOVE
Ananya Birla’s home décor venture, CuroCarte is a pioneer in curating and designing luxury products made by hand, which are a result of a seamless collaboration between their designers and craftsmen from all over the world. The brand launched its Spain Collection, titled ‘Bring Art to Life’, which features baked, beaten, blown and brushed homeware from various parts of Spain. For more details, visit curocarte.com.
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Be Seated
Your search for the perfect sofa ends at IOTA, where comfort and style come together to offer something unique. Upholstered in unusual colours and crafted with top grain leather, the new sofa collection boasts of dense foam or fibre seating and a padded frame, while back seats and soft pillow tops aid in providing the best kind of relaxation. Choose from high-leg or low-to-the-floor designs, in vibrant colours. Price on request.
home | new in the market COMFORT FIRST
BEAUTY SLEEP
Sleepwell’s new generation mattress, Nexa, with a Responsive Memory Foam, is the one to bag. The High Resilience Flexi PUF (Polyurethane Foam) and feather-soft layers enable easy body movements and good weight distribution. Also, its unique property of dissipating heat ensures a good night’s sleep. Priced at `�42,000. Go to sleepwellproducts.com to know more.
Nature’s Child
Rainforest Italy, a premium e-furniture store, recently launched a fresh and colourful Forest collection. Inspired by nature, the range features accent chairs, sofas, side tables, consoles and bookshelves that celebrate the flora and fauna in unusual colour palettes. Crisp shades and perfect finishing, cut and designs, make the brand’s furniture stand apart. For more information, visit rainforestitaly.com
KITCHEN SHOWSTOPPER
Extending its range of headroom hoods, Miele India recently launched the ‘Pearl’ model, which features a dimmable, atmospheric lighting. In fact, the design of this model is at its striking best when the atmospheric lighting is switched on. But what sets these hoods apart from the others is the pitch of the canopy, allowing even a tall person plenty of room to peer down into the pans. Priced at `�3,29,990.
Organic Matter
Experience the comfort of Amouve, a first-of-its-kind range of toxin-free, organic bed linen in India. Featuring bedsheet sets, quilts, comforters/duvets and cushion covers, the brand focuses on keeping your body and skin healthy, with the products getting softer with each wash. Founder Ami Sata experienced the softest sheets in Sweden, and when she couldn’t find the same quality in India, decided to launch a brand that would address this gap in the market. The e-commerce brand also eliminates middlemen mark-ups. Go to amouve.com to see the entire range.
BRAND CONNECT
Design & Décor Extravaganza This October, unleash the interiors enthusiast in you, at the HouseFull exhibition—an annual luxury home décor show hosted by Ramola Bachchan.
PHOTOGRAPHS: MAC BRUZAE (LEAD); THREE SIXTY (BOTTOM)
A
fter three successful runs, entrepreneur Ramola Bachchan is all set to host the fourth edition of HouseFull, a one-of-a-kind home décor exhibition, in October. Going on floors on October 6 and 7 at The Ashok Hotel, Delhi, the two-day luxury exhibition will see participation from wellknown brands like Bruzae, Hastens, Dueloy Leather, Rameshwaram Silver Furniture from Udaipur, Murano Glass, ThreeSixtyDegree, Perenne Design, Zufolo Design, White Domus Designs, Karigiri, Devika Diwan, More Inside, Auburn Scale, HIIH by Reshma, Divishi by Divya Sapra, Rohit Khurana Designs and Gallerie Splash by Jinoy & Sreejith. Featuring furniture, home accessories, soft furnishing, lighting, rugs, artworks, gifts and much more, HouseFull receives visitors from various fields, including architects, interior designers, bulk buyers and real estate companies. Visitors, in the past, have also included over 10,000 elite shoppers
who regularly attend fashion and lifestyle exhibitions. It is an ideal platform for brands and consumers to meet and understand each other’s requirements. Speaking about the exhibition, Ramola Bachchan says, “HouseFull is now in its fourth year and we have had a great response, so far. The whole idea is to bring fantastic brands from across India under one roof and showcase a complete home décor experience. HouseFull has had a strong response and continues to grow each year. We welcome new brands every year to join the show.” The USP, she adds, lies in it being a pre-Diwali show, specially curated and catering to price points across the entire home décor segment. It is not just limited to the capital, but will also have known brands coming in from Jaipur, Udaipur and other parts of North India. Well, building on the momentum over the last few years, it does look like HouseFull has all the ingredients in place for another super successful show. See you there.
Shirt: SR Stores; Pants: Lavish Alice; Jewellery: Gehna Jewellers; Shoes: Intoto.
golden girl text by meghna menon photographs by abhay singh creative direction by anuradha sen styling by mohit rai
AFTER TWO DECADES IN FILMS, KARISMA KAPOOR, THE ORIGINAL IT GIRL, IS NOW LIVING LIFE ON HER OWN TERMS, AND MAKING HEADS TURN WITH HER CHIC SARTORIAL CHOICES. BHG SPEAKS TO HER ABOUT HOME, FASHION AND BEING AWAY FROM THE ARC LIGHTS.
“I’VE SEEN THE INDUSTRY
change. There was a time when there were no makeup vans and we had to change behind the bushes. Then came vanity vans.”
“PICK PERSONAL STYLE over fashion, always. When
you dress for yourself, your inner personality shines through and you look graceful.”
R
Right off the bat, one thing strikes me as I speak with Karisma Kapoor: She knows her priorities well. Be it pursuing a career in movies (she entered Bollywood at 17, at a time when her family didn’t support women joining the industry) and eventually leaving it, or being a single parent (she is mother to Samaira, 12, and Kiaan, 7), Karisma has charged through life, setting her own rules and finding her niche. Now at 43, she feels all these experiences have only helped her become a stronger person. “I’ve always been a confident woman, holding my beliefs and value systems close to me. Today, I can hold my own as a career person, as a homemaker, as a mom, and it’s a nice space that I’m in,” says Karisma. This confidence has allowed Karisma to truly choose what she wants to do today. She says she would rather spend a lot of her time with her young kids and being there for them, taking up endorsements and events only when it pleases her. The Kapoors are, in any case, a close-knit family that bonds over food and banter. These warm vibes reflect in Karisma’s Khar West, Mumbai home as well. In fact, the focus in her house is a strikingly large dining table, which brings the family together. “We Kapoors are foodies. I wanted that every time my family comes visiting, I have a table large enough to accommodate everyone, while we talk twenty to the dozen over good food,” says Karisma. While the dining table unites the foodies, it is the family den where everybody loves to unwind, watch TV, chat and just spend time together. It’s not surprising then that this is Karisma’s favourite corner and one that she insisted on having. When putting her home together, Karisma was particular that this warm vibe be the signature of her space. “It doesn’t matter whether the house is big or small—what is important is that there is plenty of compassion and that your personality shines through,” she says. Her modern contemporary home has breezy tones through a lot of woodwork and is personalised with plenty of family pictures. Pieces of art, travel memorabilia and a gleaming golden national award for Dil To Pagal Hai hold prominence in this abode, retaining a simple and uncluttered look. The kids’ rooms are done up tastefully while a balcony with its vibrant greens is where Karisma enjoys the breeze and watches the rain. So, what turns a house into a home, I ask her. “Your home should feel peaceful and be pleasing to the eye. Keeping the clutter out and having a few key elements in each room is all that could change the look of your home around,” she answers.
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Family first
Ironically, while food brings the family together, Karishma herself isn’t a cook. “I love looking at recipes online and watching cooking shows, if that counts!” she laughs, adding that her daughter, Samaira, is the one to bake cupcakes and cook pasta. “That’s fun for me. But our family time, something I don’t compromise on, is all about the simple things in life really—hanging out, watching a movie, making popsicles at home and chatting.” She says that motherhood has been a life-changing experience. “You get your priorities right and learn to multitask accordingly. It makes you more patient, understanding and giving as well,” reflects Karisma.
Right foot forward
Motherhood isn’t the only change in her. The past few years have seen Karisma metamorphose into a trendsetter with chic sartorial choices that are keenly followed by the media and fans alike. Indifferent to the latest trends, her style is a far cry from her fashion experiments of the 90s and early 2000s. Her go-to look: Keeping it easy and refined, and dressing for herself alone. “I like to wear what I’m comfortable in and what I think I look good in. I was a baby back when I was in the movies and we wore whatever we were told to. My style has definitely evolved over the years and I don’t feel the pressure anymore to look a certain way for the shutterbugs,” she says, opting for classics with a twist, and well-tailored, structured pieces, which are tracked by her 2.3 million followers on Instagram. So, whether it’s her French Riviera pictures that make you want to slip
3 things you didn’t
know about KARISMA
1� 2� 3�
She has a huge sweet tooth and eats an ice cream every day. She is scared of watching horror movies. Sliders are her go-to choice of footwear these days—easy to slip into and comfortable.
Jumpsuit: Lola; Shoes: Intoto, Jewellery: Swarovski.
into trendy dresses, or her latest public appearances where she pulls off edgy pieces with ease, there’s always a style to applaud. “It’s a big compliment when celebrities are able to influence their fans. While it’s always been that way, I do agree that celebs are a lot more accessible now through social media.” Karisma counts both her grandmothers as style icons and would love to pick pieces from their closets.
A life less ordinary
Today, 26 years since her debut, Karishma may not be in the industry but is still connected to it. “It’s been a great journey and I’ve been fortunate to have had such a good career. I’ve had the chance to work with the best, be it filmmakers, co-stars or technicians, and I’ve had great roles offered to me,” she says, recollecting how she’s seen the industry change. But ultimately, according to her, what mattered then and what matters now is the same: “Sincerity, hard work and talent are only what can take upcoming stars to reach the pinnacle of success.”D
Rapid Fire A trend you like, but may not necessarily follow? Anti-fits. A night-out look? Bling and fun. If it’s a casual dinner, I keep it simple. If it’s a special occasion, I slip on a dress. Your fitness routine. A lot of yoga and walking. I’m not a gym person. What would you love from your grandmothers’ wardrobes? My paternal granny’s white sarees and my maternal grandmother’s chiffon saris and pearls. When it comes to your kids, you don’t compromise on... Their eating habits. ■ 72 �
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KARISMA LOVES THE FASHION-FORWARD
designs of Ralph Lauren, Armani and Chanel, but back home, it’s Manish Malhotra and Sabyasachi all the way.
Shirt: FancyPants; Skirt: Frou Frou by Archana Rao; Jewellery: Swarovski. Hair and Makeup by Subhash Vagal. LOCATION: COURTESY JW MARRIOT MUMBAI JUHU
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BHG stylemakers
The A-Team
They are innovators, pathbreakers, trailblazers. They are the new stylemakers who w are thinking and doing things differently. From sustainable beauty and zero-waste living F to upcycled dĂŠcor and curvy fashion, these are names that need to be on your radar. TURN THE PAGE TO STEP INSIDE THEIR WORLDS. T
BHG stylemakers special | design
Ishrat Sahgal
FOUNDER, MISHCAT CO (MISHCATCO.COM)
When Ishrat Sahgal returned to India in 2013 after majoring in interior architecture from the Rhode Island School of Design, she noticed a gap in the carpet industry. Designs were the de riguer neutral-coloured, too expensive or too similar, Kashmiri, traditional, and featuring wool or flat silk. A fine arts enthusiast, and wanting to treat carpets as a canvas, Ishrat, 28, set up Mishcat Co in Delhi the same year. Today, the brand is known for its stunning, upcycled carpets crafted from leftover sari silk yarn, and also offers interior consultancy. THE BESTSELLER: THE LUMINOU US U IKAT KHOYA CA ARPET.
DO YOU FEEL THAT YOU HAVE FILLED A GAP IN THE INDUSTRY? Yes, and that has been most exciting. For eons,
the carpet industry hadn’t had any innovation and what we saw were the same old things. Our idea is to change the way people look at carpets. YOUR INSPIRATIONS? I’m constantly inspired by the bodies of work and passion of a lot of artists and designers across disciplines—painters, sculptors, architects, among others. But, I believe that original inspiration comes from the source, and that one can find beauty in the most unexpected places.
STYLE TO YOU IS… …being comfortable in my own skin. It spans across mediums—your clothes, your home and your conversations. A truly stylish person is holistic in his or her style —it isn’t defined by the brands you wear or the colour of your lipstick. ADVICE TO ASPIRING STYLEMAKERS? Question the normal and find your way of doing things differently. People feed on passion and that reflects in whatever you have created. Also, dream big!
NO TWO CARPETS ARE THE SAME AME AT MISHCAT CO..
FAVOURITE DESIGNER: ITALIAN ARCHITECT CARLO SCARPA.
“In some ways, the brand is an extension of my personality. The voice it takes on is like an organic conversation that I would have with someone.” �
7
As told to Meghna Menon
PHOTOGRAPH: GREG SCHEIDEMANN [N] HAUS F OTO
WHAT SETS MISHCAT CO CARPETS APART? Our complementary design consultancy helps each space reach its fullest potential. Once you have a rug from Mishcat (a childhood nickname) on the floor, it acts as a focal point, and everything else can be subtle or eclectic, as per your aesthetics. Due to sari silk’s nature, every carpet is unique.
BHG stylemakers BHG special | décor
Rukmini Ray
FOUNDER, EDITOR AND STYLIST, TRUMATTER (TRUMATTER.IN)
Most bloggers love colours—muted or obvious—yet Mumbai-based Rukmini Ray, 31, blissfully blogs at Trumatter about embracing the negative space (everything white), from her, not surprisingly, all-white home. Having started the blog in 2010 as a way to document changes she was bringing about in her tiny rental, the award-winning blogger now has an ardent following of people who admire her sense of style and courage to be unique. She is soon set to launch her lines of fabric, tiles and wallpapers.
WHAT HAS THIS JOURNEY BEEN LIKE? I’ve learnt an immense lot, the most crucial being this: Content is still the king. The second is being consistent. Once these two are sorted, be a marketer and market your blog holistically. There has to be discipline in all the three areas or you won’t break the clutter. If you are true to your blog, you will shine.
PHOTOGRAPH: GR
YOUR INSPIRATIONS? The most mundane-est, everyday things. If you take a look at my home, nothing is designer or expensive or even very different for that matter. It’s every-day things treated differently— through colours, patterns and styling.
ONE OF RUKMINI’S FAVOURITE READS ON INTERIORS.
DO YOU FEEL THAT YOU HAVE FILLED A GAP IN THE INDUSTRY? I think so! As a blogger, I enjoy a very sweet spot. I know the designers and the audience just as well,
and that gives me the opportunity to bridge the gap easily and effectively. When a brand or a designer wants to collaborate, I insist that I style the product in my home, so that readers can see how it can look in a real-life scenario and the designers can see the reaction the product or design is getting. STYLE TO YOU IS… … something that reflects you rather than what’s in vogue. To me, it is comfortable elegance. I take cues from the word ‘casual comfort’ for my personal fashion as well as to decorate my space.
ALL PHOTOGRAPHS (EXCEPT BOOK): RUKMINI RAY
“I love designer Rachel Ashwell’s style as I’m a fan of shabby chic. But my latest muse is artist Justina Blakeney, even though our styles differ.”
STYLE FILES: SIMPLE TEXTURES AND A MINIMAL COLOUR PALETTE. E.
FAVOURITE V COLLABORATION: ATION AT STYLING CHU S UMBAK’S GOLD SERIE ES.
ADVICE TO UPCOMING BLOGGERS? Start out as a journalist, a writer, a designer or a cook and then blog about it. Have a strong hold on your subject. Starting a blog because everyone’s got one will lead to you losing interest. And don’t expect instant results. As told to Meghna Menon
�
BHG stylemakers special | food
Aditi Dugar & Prateek Sadhu
DIRECTOR & HEAD CHEF RESPECTIVELY, MASQUE (MASQUERESTAURANT.COM)
Prateek Sadhu, a sous chef at Le Cirque, Bengaluru, and Aditi Dugar, of the Mumbai-based catering firm, Sage and Saffron, met in 2014. On discovering that they both shared an ingredientdriven outlook towards food, the two travelled across India for the next 18 months, tying up with farmers and farming collectives. In September 2016, they opened Masque in Mumbai, a restaurant which introduced botanical bistronomy—a concept where regional produce is used to create a seasonal menu with global flair. Today, Masque has been ranked on Food Tank’s list of sustainable restaurant innovators, and received the Epicurean Guild Award for the most iconic restaurant of the year.
Focusing on Masque being ingredientdriven, Aditi, 34, and Prateek, 31, are trying to bring the focus back on India by letting the produce take centre stage. g INS SPIRATION: AN DA B RBER, BAR HO WH NEERED PION HE FARMTHE -FORK TOT OVEMENT. MO
�
p
r 2017
WHAT SETS MASQUE APART FROM OTHERS? PS: We work with around 30 different boutique farmers across India, and a lot of research goes into sourcing, be it Ladakh, Sikkim or Pondicherry, to see where the food is coming from and how it is grown. We believe in connecting with the farmers and being on the same page as them. That translates on the plate. DO YOU FEEL THAT YOU HAVE FILLED A GAP? AD: I think so but I’d leave that to diners to decide. PS: Between the seasonal ingredients and format of the restaurant, not many are doing what Masque is.
DOES MASQUE REFLECT YOUR PERSONALITY? PS: Definitely. The restaurant’s philosophy reflects what we believe in, and the execution has been a direct extension of that. Both, Aditi and I, are neurotic about details and that flows into our work. WHAT INSPIRES YOU? PS: India! There is a lot on offer in every corner, so long as you push hard enough to find it. THE JOURNEY SO FAR? AD: Every day is a new challenge, and I love it. We learn so much with each passing day and keep pushing the limits.
PS: We push to keep evolving every day as chefs, restaurateurs, creators. The restaurant’s format means that we are experimenting every day in the kitchen, so we’re constantly learning. WHAT’S NEXT? AD: We have exciting collaborations planned for the year, starting with a collaborative dinner on September 19 with Chef Garima Arora of the Bangkok-based, moderneclectic restaurant, Gaa. PS: To harness more ingredients from the region. I’m always excited to discover what’s next and play around with it. As told to Meghna Menon
PHOTOGRAPH: GREG SCHEIDEMANN [N] HAUS F OTO
ADITI AND PRATEEK HAVE A NEW W FAVOURITE EACH WEEK!
BHG stylemakers BHG| special beauty
Jessica Jayne
FOUNDER, PAHADI LOCAL (PAHADILOCAL.COM)
Mumbai girl Jessica Jayne founded the indigenous beauty brand, Pahadi Local, last year, and since then, her traditional Himayalan products, like the Gutti Ka Tel, Khal Apricot Meal Scrub, Markalak Clay, Multifloral Honey and Kangra Leaf Cut Tea, have garnered a loyal fan following. The brand’s philosophy, from source to bottle, focuses on 100% pure and natural skincare and wellness products, featuring stringent purity, quality and logistics checks. Simultaneously, Jessica also empowers local communities by promoting fair trade and sustainable luxury products.
PHOTOGRAPH: GR
“I feel we are part of a movement that is filling a gap for people choosing a conscious lifestyle. The credit doesn’t belong to me exclusively.” exclusively.
JESSICA’S FAVOURITE V IS MARKALAK, A MINERAL-RICH HIMALAYAN CLAY.
THE BIRTH OF AN IDEA. It all began when I discovered the miraculous Gutti ka Tel. My skin was peeling incessantly in the Shimla winter, and nothing was helping. It was then, after noticing how most locals had lovely, rose-tinted cheeks and glowing skin, that I discovered this oil, a common local product. In just a week of applying Gutti ka Tel, my skin healed and started looking better. I began gifting it to my family and friends, and the demands increased. In fact, at one time, I would be carrying 50 to 60 bottles in my luggage!
response was fantastic. I travelled the Himalayas for six months, built relationships with orchardists and village leaders, and came up with the name of the brand. In 2016, we launched two products—Gutti Ka Tel, Khal Apricot Meal Scrub —and, today, we have more than 16 products that include a range of honey and teas. We are also stocked at the Good Earth stores, which has been a big support.
HOW HAS THE JOURNEY BEEN SO FAR? Initially, I would send orchard fresh Apricot Kernel Oil from Shimla to my mother, who would package it in pretty glass bottles and my friend Kanika would market it. To my surprise, the
BRAND EXTENSIONS? I believe in experience. Pahadi Pure Experiences, set up in different venues in metropolitan cities, are fun pop-up events with high-tea and a foot spa. This enables potential customers to try, touch, taste and feel our products first hand.
PAHADI LOCAL’S LATEST LAUNCH: KANGRA LEAF F CUT TEA.
STYLE TO YOU MEANS… …imbibing the Pahadi Local philosophy— Luxury in Simplicity.
As told to Nandini Banerjee
EVERYDAY THINGS AND SIMPLE MPLE PEOPLE N E E INSPIRE JESSICA. A.
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BHG stylemakers special | lifestyle
Sahar Mansoor
FOUNDER, BARE NECESSITIES (BARENECESSITIES.IN)
It was in 2012 that Sahar Mansoor first learnt about the zero waste lifestyle, and two years later, decided to live a life more congruent with its values, especially since she called herself an environmentalist. So, in 2015, Bengaluru-based Sahar founded Bare Necessities, which uses organic, local ingredients to create non-toxic, non-GMO and cruelty-free personal and home care products with 100% recyclable packaging. Besides this, she also holds workshops on how to be a zero waster, a most recent one at the city’s Google office.
R BIGGEST INFLUENCER: BEA JOHNSON, FOUNDER OF THE ZERO WASTE LIFESTYLE MOVEMENT. WHAT HAS WORKING ON BARE NECESSITIES BEEN LIKE SO FAR? It’s been a fun ride. I was quite nervous at first to put myself and my lifestyle out there, but it’s been great busting myths about how difficult it is to lead a zero waste lifestyle. There is definitely an appetite for conscious ethical consumerism, as people are tired of plastic causing irreplaceable damage to our health
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and environment, and are looking for more sustainable brands that mirror their values. DO YOU FEEL YOU HAVE FILLED A GAP IN THE INDUSTRY? There is a giant gap in the industry, in our policies, in our economies. The ecosystem for zero waste (awareness around it and the right products, costs, places and policies) is underdeveloped. While I think Bare Necessities is
filling the gap in the personal and home care space, we hope to fill in the gaps in the entire ecosystem one day. The brand is more than just selling products—it is about making waste-free living easy, accessible and mainstream. YOUR ADVICE TO THOSE TAKING A RISK? If you are afraid, it’s a good sign. It means you are doing something outside your comfort
zone and that you are about to grow in ways you didn’t know were possible. Life is all abo ou o ut acquiring new learnin ngg n experiences and beingg happy—so go forth an nd set the world on fire! STYLE TO YOU IS… …being authentic to who you truly are. Likee Dr Seuss says, “You arre you. That is truer than n true. There is no one alive who is you-er than you.”
As told to Meghna Menon
SAHAR USES HER BRAND’S STEEL STRAW EVERY DAY.
O
“Zero waste living is not time-consuming, expensive or just for hippie— your granny was probably a zero waster.”
PHOTOGRAPH: NEEL BHUPATHI (SAHAR)
A FAVOURITE: LAVENDER BATH SALTS.
BHG stylemakers BHG | wellness special
Sarvesh Shashi
FOUNDER, ZORBA: A RENAISSANCE STUDIO (WEAREZORBA.COM)
PHOTOGRAPH: GREG SCHEIDEMANN [N] HAUS FOTO
At the age of 17, when most teens are working on their college applications, Sarvesh Shashi had an epiphany. A chance yoga session opened him up to the joy of the practice, and the idea of Zorba: A Renaissance Studio took root in his mind. In 2013, four years later, he turned away from his flourishing family business in Chennai, and founded Zorba. Today, it is India’s largest chain of yoga studios, with 52 centres across the country, promoting over 25 different forms of yoga—ranging from Athar Yoga to Paddle Boat Yoga— and fetching this 25-year-old the sobriquet of the ‘Modern Yogi’. HOW DID THE IDEA FOR ZORBA COME ABOUT? I was 17 when my father asked me to take up his yoga classes, which he couldn’t continue any more. That was the turning point. I was bowled over and had many questions by the end of the classes. On asking my Guruji about enlightenment, I learnt the biggest lesson of my life. He told me: “If you think I can enlighten you, you’re a fool and I am a bigger fool.” After that, I took a vow of silence for 40 days and stayed away from all forms of entertainment, alcohol, non-vegetarian food and other vices, to establish control over my senses. The impact of this abstinence made me determined to spread the joy to others. I wanted to touch the souls of 500 million people, below the age of 30, and to make yoga interesting and fun for them. WHAT WERE THE CHALLENGES THAT YOU FACED? Everything! Every city and every locality has different types of people
and we have had to adapt to them. Having said that, I have also learnt a great deal and have overcome each one of those issues with time. YOUR BIGGEST LEARNING AS AN ENTREPRENEUR? Nothing comes for free and there is no elevator to instant success. You always need to work hard to get there. Another thing that I have learned is that if you want to go fast, go alone, but if you want to go far, go with others. Team work is extremely important and if you take care of your employees, your employees will surely take care of you. STYLE FOR YOU IS… …a state of being healthy and positive in the mind as well as in the body. WHAT IS THE WAY FORWARD FOR YOU AND ZORBA? Zorba will go international (Dubai, the US and London) by the end of 2017. My vision is to connect with 7 million souls.
ZORBA HAS MORE THAN 3,500 REGISTERED ERED MEMBERS, PL LUS WALK-INS.
ZORBA GOES Z BEYOND B CONVENTIONAL C YOGA—THEY Y MAKE YOGA M UPBEAT, WHILE U RETAINING ITS R AUTHENTICITY A AND ESSENCE. A
Sarvesh also runs successful ventures like Take Off (a branding agency), Mad Over Madras (a food kiosk), Chrysal (a startup incubator), Dot (an interiors firm) and Stranger than Fiction (an online video forum). As told to Neha Mehta
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BHG stylemakers special | travel
Shilpa Sharma
FOUNDER, BREAKAWAY (BREAKAWAY.IN)
With Jaypore, an e-commere website that celebrates local design, founder Shilpa Sharma’s name became synonymous with Indian art and handicrafts. But her love for travel was equally strong. So, she launched a unique travel venture, Breakaway, which plans and executes bespoke experiential journeys in India—the itinerary is packed with workshops on art, crafts, textile, photography and local cuisine. Shilpa calls this going “beyond the brochure”. “We design tours for travel enthusiasts, also known as slow travel concepts. And we give them memories of a lifetime,” she says.
A TOUR SHOWCASING A KANTHA EMBROIDER AT NGO KATNA’S KANTHA IN KATNA, WEST BENGAL.
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FROM BREAKAWAY’S PUDUCHERRY ITINERARY: RAKU POTTERY AT AAVARTAN STUDIO POTTERY IN AUROVILLE. THE BIRTH OF AN IDEA. I felt that there was a growing desire among modern travellers for journeys beyond the map. I wanted to create an immersive experience incorporating not only the obvious tourist attractions, but also the often overlooked cultural nuances that embody the essence of that city or town. From Indian textiles and crafts to the interesting differences in lifestyles of locals around the country, I wanted to enable travellers to find a longer rooted association with the place. Also, Breakaway comes with an added assurance: A travel companion who helps you look rather
than see, listen rather than hear and who quietly sculpts your trip with unimaginablle dimensions. WHAT, ACCORDING TO YOU, IS THE USP OF THE BRAND? Our ability to curate interaction-based journeys around India. These are done with the help of communities and individuals, through relations forged during years of networking and my working in the crafts and textile sector for the last 20 years. Today, we organise 30 to 40 experiences yearly, from crafts and textiles trails,
art and heritage experiences, and solo travels for women, to plantation tours, social sector interactions and even customised experiences where the travellers can build a trail themselves, incorporating elements from all of the above. STYLE FOR YOU IS... …a manifestation of the person I am, and a direct reflection of my personality.
As told to Nandini Banerjee
PHOTOGRAPH: GREG (PORTRAIT) SCHEIDEMANN MEHAK SETHI [N] HAUS F OTO
“I feel that slow travel, as a concept, is still not popular enough, but is beginning to interest the mature urban mind-set. We have plugged a gap with our approach to craft and textile tours.”
BHG stylemakers BHG| fashion special
Tinka and Rixi Bhatia FOUNDERS, HALF FULL CURVE
Challenging the norm of unflattering outfits that limit the style quotient of women who don’t fall within conventional size ranges, plus size label Half Full Curve is all about wrap and colour blocked dresses, embroidered shirts and midis in vibrant, appealing hues. Sisters Tinka and Rixi Bhatia, cofounders of the label, zeroed in on the idea when Tinka’s search for chic, plus-size fashion ended in disappointment. Launched in July, their range is inspired by art (Rothko and Cubism) and, as a result, they employ surface ornamentation, sequins, thread work and appliqué in the designs.
THE SILHOUETTES ARE MADE FOR CURVY WOMEN, AND ARE COMFORTABLE YET CHIC.
PHOTOGRAPH: GREG SCHEIDEMANN [N] HAUS FOTO
—Tinka Bhatia, co-founder
ARTIST ROTHKO’S PAINTINGS HAVE INSPIRED THE DESIGN NS.
HOW DID THE IDEA COME ABOUT? “The concept emerged from the dire need of better plus-size clothing options for women in tune with the current fashion trends. Since most of the existing plus-size labels were restricted to anti-fit silhouettes, owing to the ssi ilh ilh ho lack la ck of understanding ut a curvy women’s aab bo ou u righ ri ght ht to be styled equally nyone else, the label as an as waas born to serve as a w onee---stop shop for them on tto o wear their curves cco on onfi nfifidently and stylishly,” sayyss Tinka. sa S LE TO YOU IS… STYL …b … b beeing e comfortable in on o nee’’s ’s skin. It’s not about
what size you wear, it’s about how you wear your size. One should have their individual style and a personality that exudes confidence and a free spirit. THE EXPERIENCE, THUS FAR? “We are keen to cater to the clothing needs of women across varied ages and style groups with our design collections that focus on everything from casual to formal apparels,” shares Rixi. “As there are varied body types, coming up with a size chart that could work for a larger audience was a tad difficult. But, we are glad
to see an overwhelming response wherein the customers are overjoyed to be able to try and buy clothes off the rack,” elaborates Rixi. WHAT’S NEXT ON YOUR RADAR? The launch of our online store—halffullstore.com —in September and hopefully foraying into international shipping soon. The label will also begin experimenting with small size options in the coming months. As told to Neha Mehta
� September 2017 |
PHOTOGRAPH: GETTYIMAGES (PAINTING)
“The collection has got immense appreciation from curvy women who can now buy stylish clothes, without the perils of customisation.”
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Kitchen & Bathrooms
THE BEST DESIGNS, SPACES AND PRODUCTS
SPECIAEL ISSU
ONSeptember STANDS 2017
PHOTOGRAPHS: SHUTTERSTOCK (ALL EXCEPT PRODUCTS)
l o ok g o od, f e e l g o od
BERRY BLAST
lum The pretty p k. a b shade is c ur yo Flaunt it on lips and eyes.
the big bold
THEORY This season, makeup is all about drama. We got beauty experts to decode the four most versatile trends that you can easily master. text by nandini banerjee
beauty | makeup
Glitter Lips Yes, you can flaunt them tastefully, even for work. Beauty expert Annanya Sabarwal of KIKO Milano India has a fool-proof execution. Step 1: Apply concealer on your lips to give them a colourless appearance, in order to enhance the final look. Step 2: Apply a lipstick of your choice. Dab a tissue to remove excess and then add another coat to seal the colour. Step 3: Use Vaseline or transparent gloss over your lips for the glitter to stick easily. Step 4: Dip your flat lip brush in a bit of glitter and tap it on your lips gently. Make sure you put only a hint of glitter in the centre of the lips. Wipe away any stray glitter, and your lips are ready. Step 5: For the day, complement your lips with nude eyes and bronzed cheeks. For the night, go all out with smokey black eyes.
KIKO MILANO 3D Hydra Lipgloss, `�900
NYX Gotcha Covered Concealer, `�550
COLORBAR Feel The Rain Twinkling Glitter, `�500
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L’OREAL PARIS Glam Bronze Duo, `�850
COLORBAR Glitterati Top Coat Retro Silver, `400
Silver Eyes and Nails KIKO MILANO h d w Water Eyeshadow l Grey, ` 1,050 1 0 Pearly
Twinning has made an appearance in makeup, too. What’s more? il er is back with a bang. Annanya gives us a lowdown on Silve king this look work. mak S p 1: For silver eyes, prep the eyelids with an eyeshadow primer. Step Then The apply a concealer so that the silver eyeshadow you brush on llaterr, doesn’t bleed. S p 2: To create the base, put a light grey or a nude eyeshadow Step overr the entire eyelid. Shade the outer corners of the eye with a jet blacck eyeshadow—this gives more definition. S p 3: Now, using a thin eyeshadow brush, apply a highlyStep i mented silver eyeshadow on your eyelids. Use a little at a time pigm d brush gently. and S p 4: Use a volumising mascara to finish the look. Step p 5: For the nails, make sure they are shaped short and square. Step ng nails spoil the look, so give those extensions a miss. Lon p 6: After the base coat, apply a grey nail paint on, except the Step ringg finger. On this, apply a silver glitter nail polish. Finish with a ttop coat and you are ready to party.
SM SMASHBOX 24 Hour Photo Finish Shadow Primer, `�1,850
CLINIQUE Chubby Stick Shadow Tint For Eyes Bountiful Beige, `�1,500
beauty | makeup THEBALM Put A Lid On It Eyelid Primer, `�1,299
L’ORÉAL PARIS Voluminous Million Lashes Mascara, `�895
MAYBELLINE The 24K Nudes Palette, `�925
ORIFLAME The One Eye Liner Stylo, `499
Exaggerated Eyelashes Extra-long eyelashes bring the focus back to the eyes. And, no, we are not talking about fake eyelashes. Makeup artist Aakriti Kochar of Oriflame India has a few tricks up her sleeve. Step 1: Apply a sheer eye concealer on the eyelids and blend well. Step 2: Next, apply a pearly white or a white gold eyeshadow in a frosty finish, in smooth strokes. Step 3: Outline the eyes with a black eyeliner (pen-tip liquid eyeliners are extremely easy to draw with and their liquid finish renders a dark and shiny look) and create a slight wing in the outer corner to accentuate the shape of the eyes. Step 4: Tight-line the upper lid, look down and fill the upper rim of the eyes completely with a dark kajal. This adds volume to the base of the eyelashes, making it look fuller. Now, curl the upper lashes using a curler. Step 5: Apply two coats of a volumising mascara from top to bottom to add volume, and then several coats from the bottom of the upper lash line. Wiggle your brush when combing the lashes upwards— this separates the lashes, while the application adds length. Move onto the lower lash line and add a hint of mascara to groom them—again wiggle the brush to separate the lashes.
Metallic Eyes Single or two-toned, make room for bold, shiny eyeshadows in your vanity. Aakriti gives the DIY. Step 1: Apply a sheer concealer on the eyelid and the under-eye area. Brush loose powder over the concealer to set it. Step 2: Sculpt the eyelid with a matte, soft brown eyeshadow. Add highlighter to the arch of the eyebrows and blend in softly. Step 3: Apply a layer of a creambased eyeshadow of your choice (we chose blue). You will now need a metallic eyeshadow palette in dark shades (preferably black and greys). Use the black eyeshadow on the corner of the eyelid to add a smokey effect. Step 4: Dab a little grey metallic eyeshadow on the centre of the eyelid using a flat brush and blend well. Add a hint of the same eyeshadow on the inner corner of the eyes, using a thin tip brush. Step 5: Fill the lower lash line with a dark kajal and smudge softly using a pencil brush to create a sensual effect. Curl your lashes and add a volumising mascara on the top and bottom lash line. ■
M.A.C Technakohl Liner, `�1,200
BOBBI BROWN Sparkle Eye Shadow Silver Moon, `�3,000
FACES Mineral Loose Powder, `�699
ESTÉE LAUDER Pure Color Envy Sculpting EyeShadow 5 Color Palette Infamous Sky, `�3,850 �S September b 2017 |
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beauty | skincare
B
e it models in glossy magazines or ‘real girls’ on social media, it seems that there’s no running away from peachy hips and smooth thighs. That said, a dimple-free thigh is actually something of a rarity. The reason: Cellulite, which affects about 90% of women, gets worse as we grow older, and can happen to anyone, fat or thin. No one is spared—Kim Kardashian, Halle Berry and Victoria’s Secret angel Alessandra Ambrosio included. So, should we even get worried about something that not even some of the fittest women in the world have been able to conquer? The truth is that once you have a better understanding of cellulite, the knowledge can help improve your overall health. And for those who want to get rid of it completely, there are some solutions to (almost) erase it.
THE INSIDE STORY
what lies beneath Forget complicated procedures and expensive therapies. We bring you the basics of cellulite and how you can (almost) get rid of it.
text by vasudha rai
BRUSHING your skin with a soft-bristled brush is said to give you a smoother appearance.
PHOTOGRAPH: GETTYIMAGES
The biggest misconception is that fat people are more prone to cellulite, though this couldn’t be farther from the truth. “Cellulite is basically the result of a bad lifestyle,” says Dr Jaishree Sharad, Mumbai-based dermatologist and author of the book Skin Talks. She explains that the orange peel effect happens when we don’t eat right or don’t exercise. The unreleased toxins he u
are stored in fat cells that become misshapen and get between the collagen and elastin fibres. Once it’s between these fibres, they can’t go back. The bumpy texture that you see is the fat coming out between the fibres that are right under the skin.
THE DIET
PHOTOGRAPHS: SHUTTERSTOCK
The first essential step to smooth skin (cellulite or otherwise) is to eat the right food. “Lots of alcohol and sugar are definitely a recipe for disaster,” says Dr Sharad. But that’s not all. Delhi-based nutritionist Dr Lovneet Batra, founder of the nutrition centre Arbhavya, suggests that even hormonal imbalances can lead to the wrong deposition of fats. “So empty calories, like processed food that contains high sugar and emulsifying agents, lead to an insulin spike, which makes hormones go out of whack,” she explains. This imbalance also makes cellulite look more apparent. The solution is to eat good fats such as nuts and seeds, and to use a combination of unrefined, unprocessed oils (mustard, coconut and ghee) in the kitchen. “In fact, good fats help mobilise cellulite by balancing the hormones—eventually, it’s all about the transportation of fat,” says Dr Batra. Delhi-based celebrity fitness trainer Sumaya Dalmia also suggests removing most grains and following a high protein diet to drain out excess fluid. The great thing about following these steps is that they aren’t just helpful for reducing the appearance of cellulite. Removing high sugar, empty calories and processed food, will also balance your hormones, reduce inflammation and increase muscle mass.
THE EXERCISE
The one thing that is most apparent about cellulite is that it occurs mostly on your hips and thighs. Long hours of sitting lead to this because there is really no blood circulation in these areas. “You can eat right, but without
THE TREATMENTS If you’re not satisfied with the effects of lifestyle changes, you can visit a dermatologist, who can decide the right combination for you. Dr Sharad suggests treatments such as cellulite injections (to melt the fat), mesotherapy (with a cocktail of ingredients to melt the bumpiness), radio frequency, and infra-red lasers (to remove the appearance, albeit temporarily)—however, these treatments are effective for only six months. So, perhaps, they are ideal before a wedding or a honeymoon. But before you invest in an expensive treatment, consider tweaking your diet and exercise. And throw in some lymphatic drainage too as the reduction of cellulite is just a small side effect of the big benefits that a lifestyle change will bring.
any form of exercise you cannot reduce cellulite,” says Dr Batra. Sumaya explains that with the right workout, you can improve the muscle tone and tightness of the skin, thereby making the cellulite look less apparent. She strongly recommends increasing muscle mass—again something that can be achieved with a high protein diet.
EXERCISING with a foam roller (with spiky extensions) under your thighs is great to break up those fat deposits.
GOOD FATS like nuts and seeds help mobilise cellulite by balancing the hormones.
“You find cellulite in the lower part of the body—so squats, lunges, kicks and deadlifts are all good.” She also suggests adding a bit of weight training to your routine and not just calisthenics. In addition, using a foam roller under your thighs (especially one with spiky extensions) is recommended to break up those fat deposits.
THE METHODS
Did you know that Indian women are more prone to cellulite than Caucasians? “This is because we have a higher percentage of fat in our bodies,” says Dr Batra. Therefore, it makes sense to not just eat healthy and exercise, but also drain the excess toxins, which cause fat cells to become misshapen. One way to do this would be through a lymphatic drainage massage. “With this sort of massage, the fat gets into the lymphatic system and is then drained out,” explains Dr Sharad. Massages also strengthen and firm the connective tissue and muscle, which also reduces the dimpled appearance. Another technique to stimulate lymphatic drainage is dry brushing. This involves running a brush made with natural, fine bristles, over your bare skin in gentle, circular motions. Just ensure that both your skin and the brush are dry, so, the best time to resort to this technique is before a shower. ■ � September 2017 |
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beauty | know your brand
the skin chef
Whipping up delicious and holistic skincare products, Just B Au Naturel focuses on pure, organic and water-free remedies. text by nandini banerjee
BEGINNING OF THE JOURNEY
Though her relationship with natural skincare products goes back about 25 years, Bubbles, who also formulates the products, launched the brand in 2014. “I started developing skin issues—intense pigmentation, made worse by stress and anxiety, that expensive products and medicines failed to cure. I’ve always been influenced by my father who was a homeopath, a yoga master and a believer in the holistic way of life. So, I turned to my grandmother’s secret recipes and Bach Flower Remedies (containing a minute amount of flower material in a 50:50 solution of brandy and water),” she explains. When the idea to create a skincare brand took root in her mind, Bubbles dedicated herself to extensive research and development, urging friends and family to try her formulations. This knowledge features in Just B Au Naturel’s products. In under three years, the brand’s repertoire has grown to 30 products online, each handcrafted by Bubbles.
T �My mother always used homemade deodorant. When my best friend got diagnosed with breast cancer and was banned from using a deodorant, I decided to formulate an all-natural version.�
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he world of beauty is changing. Just as we are becoming increasingly conscious of what we are putting into our bodies, beauty brands are taking cognisance of what they are putting into their products. Just B Au Naturel is one such sustainable beauty brand. “It is born out of the love and appreciation of nature, and established to create awareness that beauty and wellness go together,” says founder Bubbles Singh. With a vision to ‘Look Good, Do Good, Feel Good’, the brand’s range includes natural, ethical and holistic skincare products like Probiotic Deodorant, Rosehip Oil, Restorative Face Serum and Essential Elixir with Helichrysum. The ingredients are all farm-sourced, and the final product is handcrafted.
Created in small batches so that quality is not compromised, the products are packaged in apothecary bottles to protect them h from UV rays. These are formulated without parabens, artificial colours, aluminium and formaldehyde. But that’s not all. “We make anhydrous products and omit water from our skincare altogether. Preservatives prevent the growth of micro-organisms that flourish in the presence of water, so we take water out of the equation. Hence, the products are self-preserving and need only antioxidants to keep them fresh while benefitting the skin. The star ingredients in each product are highlyconcentrated, active botanicals that are, thus, used in small quantities. So, you get more benefit by using less,” she declares. Even though finding good, sustainably sourced, organically grown, raw and natural plant oils, herbs, butters and essential oils has been a challenge, the brand is everevolving. Soon, they will launch an entire Probiotic range of skincare products, after the success of their Probiotic Deodorant, which released in July this year. ■
PHOTOGRAPH: SHUTTERSTOCK (LEAD)
STAYING UNIQUE
beautyy | care
more for less
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They were never conceived as multitaskers, but these dark horses declutter your vanity case with their many talents. Take your pick. by nandini banerjee
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1. NYX Slide On Lip Pencils, `�800 ELIMINATES: Coloured eye pencil and matte lipstick
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2. Oriflame GG Mineral Foundation, `�1,399 ELIMINATES: Primer and concealer
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3. Moroccanoil Shimmering Body Oil, `�4,500 ELIMINATES: Body lotion and cream 4. ColorpHlex Homekit Leave-In Treatment, `�2,275 ELIMINATES: Conditioner and hair serum
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5. Avon Naturals Rose 3-in-1 Hydro Spritz, `�399 ELIMINATES: Face mist and hair mist
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6. The Body Shop Tea Tree AntiImperfection Night Mask, `�1,995 ELIMINATES: Night cream and face serum 7. Kiko Milano Hydra Pro Glow, `�2,200 ELIMINATES: Blusher and Illuminating lotion
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8. NELF USA Highlighting Blusher, `�900 ELIMINATES: Illuminating face lotion and shimmering eye shadow ■
For more info, see Resources � September 2017 |
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beauty | wellness
crash course Here’s how you can detox your body to look your best for the upcoming festive season. text by nandini banerjee
W
hile adopting a holistic and healthy, everyday lifestyle is the ultimate aim, it is often difficult to sustain habits that promote it. In those times, short-term detox diets and exercises can help you get results faster. However, as nutritionist Neelanjana Singh of Delhi-based Heinz Nutrilife Clinic, cautions, “Detox diets only work for a limited time as they tend to deprive the body of some nutrients and the food becomes unbalanced. These should, hence, be tried only once in while. ”
It’s all in the food
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CLEAN EATING
This one could well be the diet you adopt forever. Clean eating doesn’t deprive you of any food group. It is simply about eating whole foods that are minimally processed or refined— like wholewheat bread, oatmeal, wild brown rice and organic vegetables—and, therefore, closest to their true nature. There are many cosmetic benefits too: Glowing skin, shiny hair and strong nails, for instance.
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JUICE CLEANSE
This one is controversial but helps on days when you feel bloated or sluggish
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(dependency on junk food and caffeine is often the cause). Even sudden breakouts are an indication that something inside your body isn’t right. Juice diets eliminate toxins from the body and are not meant for the long run. But they can give you the push you need to shift from unhealthy habits.
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PALEO
This diet cuts out the extra carbs in your meals. Similar to Atkins (that cuts out carbs completely), the Paleo diet is based on foods that were believed to be available to humans who lived in the Paleolithic Age. The principles are simple: Only eat foods that can be picked or hunted, avoid those that cannot be
eaten raw and have meat from animals that have been fed their natural food. This diet claims to reduce body fat and increase muscle mass.
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VOLUMETRIC
You’ll love this diet—it lets you eat a lot and still lose weight. The focus is on feeling full by eating the right kinds of foods—ones which have a lot of water, like fruits and vegetables, since they fill the stomach with less calories.
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FLEXITARIAN
Vegetarian and flexible (because you can have grilled chicken or your favourite burger whenever you crave it) is how you can describe this diet. Many researchers
ILLUSTRATIONS: GETTYIMAGES
“When the liver and kidneys function normally, the body detoxes naturally. These organs flush out all the toxins and help cleanse the body so that it functions efficiently. But, sometimes, you need to speed up the process,” says Neelanjana. Out of the plethora of fad and crash diets available today, here are some of the popular, result-oriented ones:
have found out that vegetarians weigh less than meat eaters. This diet, therefore, focuses on foods such as tofu, beans, lentils and nuts, instead of meat—essentially, a shift from animal protein to plant protein.
Get fit fast
Most fitness experts and enthusiasts believe that if you’ve got 10 minutes, you’ve got the time for a workout. In fact, many researches have revealed that a short blast of intense exercise can boost metabolism for the entire day more effectively. So, even if you have a hectic schedule, just try to carve those 10 minutes out daily and try these simple workouts. Fitness expert Pankaj Arora of Technogym, Delhi, breaks these down for you.
your sides. Start jumping on the spot, while, at the same time, spreading your legs and raising your arms over your head. Keep your palms open during the first part of the movement. Then, bring your feet back to shoulder width, while quickly lowering both your arms back down to your sides to finish the first jumping jack. In case you experience any pain in your shoulders, either slow down the pace or do not raise your arms too high. 10 MINUTES CARDIO Running on a treadmill for barely 10 minutes is an excellent way to boost your energy levels. Your heart rate will sky-rocket, which has serious calorie- and fatburning benefits, and will challenge your cardiovascular system. SQUATS This age-old exercise tones
JUMPING JACK This is not just a warm-up exercise, but is a complete workout to enhance your stamina and burn unwanted calories. Stand up straight with your feet spread shoulderwide and let your arms hang down by
your hips and thighs easily. You can flow between different squatting positions, holding each one for at least 10 to 15 seconds or longer. Do this exercise for 10 minutes and try to seamlessly transition with no rest in between. ■
INSTANT RESULTS 10 minutes of stretching in the morning will give you an added energy boost.
Cleansing Act Neelanjana Singh lists out all the ‘good’ things you must include in your diet to lead a healthy life. Foods that are alkaline in nature, like most veggies and fruits. Avoid processed food and ones with added sugar.
Herbs are your best friends. They have antioxidant properties that are excellent for speeding up natural detoxing. Spices in your regular food, such as turmeric, coriander and fenugreek. Seasonal leafy vegetables are powerful agents to flush out toxins and take care of the free radicals in the body. All types of berries. The powerful antioxidant, Indian gooseberry, is available all year round. Add seeds, like watermelon seeds, to your meals. It is even better if you can sprout them before consuming. Include good bugs (bacteria for your gut) via probiotics and fermented products like dhokla, khandvi, idli and curd. Don’t overeat or eat till you are full. Remember to treat your stomach as if it has four chambers and you have to fill only three of them. Take stock of your breathing. Most of us shallow breathe. Take some time off to consciously breathe deeply and relax completely.
� September 2017 |
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beauty | tried and tested
FACE TO FACE
DRIFT AWAY
Floatation therapy, a popular wellness method globally, has recently arrived in India—Liquid Sanctuary at Delhi’s Meherchand market is now offering this one-ofits-kind rejuvenation. At its heart, floatation therapy focuses on providing relaxation through an environment engineered to desensitise all the senses in the body. This is done by immersing the body in Epsom salt water. After meeting founder Chirag Lilaramani, I was directed to their Gold suite, comprising of a dressing area, a rain shower and the floatation room that houses the float tank. A quick shower later, I entered the float tank filled with 12 inches of water, warmed to skin temperature, and mixed with 1,000 pounds of Epsom salts—these salts increase the density of the water. I lay down slowly and began to float almost immediately—this uncontrolled movement takes a little getting used to. The lights were then switched off, and I began to relax, my body perfectly balanced and drifting—I didn’t even realise when I slipped into deep sleep. I woke up an hour later to gentle music, and followed up the session with a long shower. My skin and hair felt super soft and I felt more relaxed than ever, as I sipped an invigorating green tea. A must try, indeed. Priced at `�5,000.
I discovered L’Oréal Paris’ Hydrafresh Anti-Ox Grape Seed Hydrating Aqua Balm when I was suffering from excessive breakouts. The soothing balm is perfect for sun-exposed and acne-prone skin, and I could see an improvement in just two days. The formula is enriched with French grape seeds, a powerful antioxidant containing small, light molecules that easily get absorbed into the skin. It also features alpha hydroxy acid, which has exfoliating properties and increases hydration. I have been using it both day and night, for seven days now, and my tan has lightened and the breakouts have subsided. Priced at `�750, the balm is available at all L’Oréal Paris stores.
HAPPY FEET
My bath regime includes daily exfoliation of my feet. So, I was excited to try Skintruth’s pedicure range, which includes a foot soak, scrub, lotion, masque and hygiene spray. The collection is packed with blends of essential oils, plant extracts and tea tree oil that help to soothe, cool and revitalise the feet, along with peppermint oil and aloe vera, which penetrate deep, condition and restore moisture. My favourite is the hygiene spray. It refreshes the feet immediately by cooling it and getting rid of odour. The foot scrub is mild and can be used every day. The best part? I don’t have to visit a salon for a pedicure. Available online at Amazon and Flipkart.
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All reviews by Nandini Banerjee
b
t know-how
t i p s a n d p ic k s f or l o ok kin ng y o u r b e s t
SCENT & SENSIBILITY
The latest release from the house of Boucheron, the iconic French jeweller, is a luxurious perfume that pays tribute to its most iconic design—the Quatre ring. Featuring top notes of bitter orange with a touch of red currant, the rosejasmine blend is accentuated with Pétalia, an ingredient that releases the scent of rose flower powder with a touch of lychee. The base note is wood, musk and cedar. Price on request.
LATEST CRUSH
FLAWLESS DREAM
The Korean brand Innisfree recently introduced its Whitening Pore Synergy Serum, featuring fresh Jeju organic tangerine peel essence, which gives the skin a double boost of whitening, while making it blemish-free. The serum contains six types of citrus flavonoids found in the fresh tangerine peel, and works towards brightening dull, uneven skin, smoothening pore texture, and diminishing dark spots by inhibiting melanin creation. Priced at `�2,500.
BOLD & BEAUTIFUL
BASE EFFECT
Experience the weightless texture of Nykaa SKINgenius Sculpting & Hydrating Foundation, with a long-wear formula that lasts all day long, thus, keeping your skin fresh and radiant. Enriched with Polylift technology and hyaluronic acid, this foundation sculpts your skin and hydrates it. The colour-adapting feature allows you to get a perfect match to your skin tone. Bonus: UV filters and a paraben-free formula. Priced at `�575.
With a mission to empower with beauty, Spanish label 3INA IN (pronounced Mee-Nah) recently made its entry to India. Its luxurious yet accessible makeup and skincare range is paraben- and cruelty-free. With showrooms in Mumbai and Noida, the stores are akin to candy shops, filled with hues of every colour imaginable (we tried their black lipstick and it looked great). The brand also has an innovative work-to-party collection that changes colour under UV light. For instance, the Fluoro Eyeliner Pencil is a severe black in the day and turns cobalt blue under UV light. For more info, visit 3ina.com.
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ANCIENT WISDOM
Joining the bandwagon of natural skincare, VLCC has launched its Ayurveda range with four facewashes—Skin Brightening Haldi and Chandan Face Wash, Natural Fairness Double Action Chandan and Kesar Face Wash, Deep Pore Cleansing and Brightening Haldi and Tulsi Face Wash and Skin Purifying Double Power Double Neem Face Wash. All four are available in 50 ml and 100 ml and priced at `�55 and `�99 respectively.
a bet ter life e v e r y day
PHOTOGRAPH: SHUTTERSTOCK
Did you know that millennials today are spending more money on coffee than on saving for the future? Turn the pages to know more.
A SLICE OF LIFE From nutrition
facts and parenting styles to what’s new in books, television and films, get the latest lowdown on lifestyle.
living | parenting
HELP YOUR CHILD learn that while it’s nice to look good, it’s really one’s personality that makes one shine.
not skin deep
In the time of selfies, airbrushing, botox and Gigi Hadid, it’s increasingly becoming difficult for young kids to wrap their heads around what beauty really means. Here’s what you need to tell them.
Make sure that you draw your child’s attention to his or her positive characteristics—hard work, ingenuity, intelligence and bravery.
I
t wasn’t long ago when a seven-yearold daughter of family friend told me that she had to watch what she ate, else she wouldn’t have a figure like actor Kareena Kapoor’s. I also see a 10-year-old every day, sweating it out on a bicycle (at the cost of playing with other children) in 40 degrees heat because her mother believes she needs to shed her “chubbiness”. At the same time, the lady grumbles that all
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the cycling has tanned her daughter’s skin, while the little girl flushes with embarrassment since this is discussed in the company of eight guests. What are we doing? Are we unconsciously sowing the seeds of irrelevant standards of beauty in our children because somewhere we’re embarrassed of our own unconscious shortcomings? Or are we pressured by technology and social media, which
mandates a selfie for every occasion, and, as a famous fairness cream ad professes, “All day click karo, post karo”? Here’s something else to ponder over: Are we setting these standards just for our girls, thus deepening the gender chasm? I have an eight-yearold son and I was stumped when he responded to a compliment by saying, “Don’t call me beautiful! I am not a girl!” If someone his age can pick
PHOTOGRAPH: GETTYIMAGES
text by prachi s. vaish
up that beauty is a popular standard for girls, then we are seriously doing something wrong. It would be unreasonable to wish that in this day and age, where our senses are constantly bombarded by beauty products and glamour, our children ignore looks completely. However, with the right and steady approach, they can learn that while it’s nice to look good, it’s with one’s personality that one can really shine. Here’s how you can start inculcating the idea of inner beauty, true beauty as well as complete beauty in your daughters and sons. INSTILLING EARLY SELFCONCEPT. Psychological studies have found that children as young as three, when asked to describe themselves, express it in terms of what they can do—I can wash my hair, I can go to the bathroom by myself—rather than what they look like. This is then the perfect age to start instilling a sense of initiative and efficiency, rather than a sense of outward appearance in our kids. As children grow, their understanding of concepts like friendliness, truthfulness and honesty grows too, and they need to be constantly patted on the backs for displaying these traits. It’s important to make them understand that these attributes make them unique, special and important.
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SETTING APPROPRIATE ROLE MODELS. Sociologists often describe the ‘self’ of a child as “a blend of what we want important people in our lives to think of us”. This ‘reflected self ’ is also known as the ‘generalised other’. No wonder your child beams at your slightest approval and frowns at the smallest kind of criticism. However, parents are not the only influences in a child’s life—there could be an actor, a sportsperson or even a fictional character. Make sure that you draw your child’s attention to his or her positive characteristics—hard
Be a good role model and show how it isn’t fair to comment on someone without knowing about their life. work, ingenuity, intelligence and bravery—making them understand that they “look so good” because it’s the confidence shining from within. Instead of looking at a girl dressed up at a Frozen themed birthday party and saying, “Oh, you look pretty just like Elsa!”, say how one day she’ll probably do something big for the people around her just like Elsa did. When Delhi-based entrepreneur and former human resources manager Pooja Seth’s 12-year-old “born from the heart” daughter, Diya, returned from school one day, upset, and asked why she was darker than and not as beautiful as her, Pooja explained how each human being was beautiful and different. After that incident, mother and daughter pored over magazines and newspaper articles to read about how respect for life was more important than looks. “Also, when she sees elderly people, she realises that beauty does not last for too long and people are remembered for their good deeds instead,” adds Pooja.
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BOOSTING SELF-ESTEEM. A child with a high self-esteem will be aware of and okay with her flaws and, if they are real obstacles, will have the initiative to overcome them, but she will generally be satisfied with the type of person she is. Children have an array of separate self-esteems for different aspects of their life, and as they move towards adulthood, these get consolidated into one general
impression. So, if your daughter seems preoccupied by her looks, pay close attention to how she feels about other aspects like academics, athletics and even social life. If you think she is fairly confident there, ensure that her concern about looks doesn’t seep into those areas. FOSTERING A NONJUDGEMENTAL OUTLOOK. As humans, we have a natural tendency to pass judgements about those around us—their looks, their dressing sense, their lifestyle choices. When we do this in the presence of our children, we convey the message that it’s okay to be critical of other people without knowing them in depth. On the other hand, if you model that it isn’t fair to comment on someone without knowing about their life, they will not only grow up to be more empathetic, but will also learn to place greater importance on factors other than outward appearance. STAYING REAL AND THOUGHTFUL. When your children tell you about a comment or remark that someone made about their complexion or appearance, ask them how it made them feel and then say something thoughtful like: “Hmm, maybe that is the only thing they could see at the moment; did you tell them about the time when you (insert an accomplishment)?” This is, in fact, a wonderful opportunity to drive home the point that looks and appearances change with time but skills and personality attributes are what make people truly love and admire someone. Priya Ramachandran, a business researcher and single parent from Pune recalls how her 17-year-old son once complimented a girl in his class for her intelligence and told her that he enjoyed pitching his wit against hers. The girl later messaged Priya to convey how nice that had felt. It’s a sort of experience that stays with one forever. ■
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living | books
fashion forward
Terry Newman’s new book, Legendary Authors and the Clothes They Wore, explores the signature sartorial styles of famous writers. We share our favourites.
Oscar Wilde © SPUTNIK / Alamy
Djuna Barnes © Pictorial Press Ltd / Alamy
James Joyce © Pictorial Press Ltd / Alamy
John Updike © Granger Historical Picture Archive / Alamy
Author, motivational speaker and entrepreneur Sanil Sachar is out with his third book, Rebound, a mystery about a schizophrenic. Here, he recommends five inspirational books he loves.
1. The Five People You Meet in Heaven, by Mitch Albom “While the world loves Tuesdays with Morrie, to be able to touch upon the subject of death so eloquently, makes this a favourite for me.” 2. Screw It, Let’s Do It, by Richard Branson “It’s about taking chances, `�199, Rupa Publication, at amazon.in
owning up to missed success and bouncing back stronger.” 3. Bottled For Business— The Less Gassy Guide to Entrepreneurship, by Karan Bilimoria with Steve Coomber “This book talks about success found in hardship, and narrates it in an extremely motivating manner.”
4. Bhim Sen Sachar—An Intimate Biography, by G.S. Bhargava “Reading about my great grandfather’s life is inspiring.” 5. The Prophet, by Kahlil Gibran “The depth in each page and the chord it strikes with me, makes it a new experience every time.” ■
COMPILED BY MEGHNA MENON
Insider Trading
These four authors are part of Terry Newman’s Legendary Authors and the Clothes They Wore, which chronicles the personal wardrobes of 50 iconic writers and how they influenced fashion. Featuring names like Maya Angelou, TS Eliot, Virginia Woolf and Ernest Hemingway, the coffee-table book showcases everything, from their style picks to key fashion moments. `�1,250, Harper Design, available at amazon.in
the pursuit of happiness From being raised in an orphanage, married at 16 and earning ` 5 per day as a labourer, Jyothi Reddy went on to build her own software empire, valued at ` 96 crore today. Her story is part of Penguin Random House’s latest book Millionaire Housewives. An excerpt…
PHOTOGRAPH: SHUTTERSTOCK (PAPER)
I
took a small room on a monthly rent of ` 60. I did not waste a single moment of the day in a bid to build a better life for my daughters. Besides continuing with my job, I started stitching petticoats for Re 1 per piece. I, however, knew that if I needed to improve my lot, I had to find a way to upgrade my skills. Around this time, I learnt of a typing class nearby and decided to enrol there. I can still recall how I entered the class on the first day and all the other students, assuming that I had come to clean the room, starting vacating their seats. I didn’t let the incident unduly affect me as I realized that you learn to get past these indignities in order to find your path in life. One day, I saw an advertisement by Ambedkar Open University for a bachelor’s degree. The one thing that worked in its favour was that the fee was `320, which I could afford. Additionally, classes were held only on Sundays, which meant I could use the rest of the days to add to my income. My husband, who would come to visit us in the town off and on, severely opposed this decision. However, by then I had reached a point where I was past caring. Not only did I complete my graduation, I also went on to do my post-graduation from that university. After I graduated, I got posted as a special teacher in Ameenpeta village and later was promoted as a mandal girl child development officer. It was around this time that fate smiled on me for the first time; I had a chance encounter with a cousin who had come down from the US on a vacation. One look at the way she carried herself and I knew this was the kind of life I wanted for my daughters. At that moment, I knew that the US could perhaps be my passport out of this cycle of poverty. On an impulse, I asked her if it was possible for a person like me to travel to the US and earn a living there. Her response is still etched in my memory. She gave me the assurance I so desperately needed when she told me that ‘an aggressive person like you can easily succeed in the US’. I so desperately wanted to change my fortune that I went ahead and enrolled in computer software classes based on just this assurance. It took a lot of effort as I had to make the long commute every day from Warangal to Hyderabad to attend the classes. By then, I was obsessed with the idea of going to the US, as I wanted to live life on my terms. Very much against my family’s wishes, I used up all the money I had saved so painstakingly and somehow got my passport and visa. It was most heart-wrenching when I had to leave my daughters behind in a hostel, with the belief that I would soon be able to offer them a better lifestyle.
Jyothi Reddy’s story in Penguin Random House’s Millionaire Housewives, is one amongst twelve on enterprising homemakers who defied stereotypes to build successful empires, despite not having prior experience in business. From Ambika Pillai walking out of her loveless marriage to set up a chain of popular salons, to Nita Mehta, who overcame ridicule and mockery to become a celebrated author, publisher, restaurateur and entrepreneur, the book traces the inspirations, passions and dreams of these trailblazers. ` 299, on amazon.in and flipkart.com.
living | passion
D
espite always having a penchant for acting and theatre, Shraddha Srinath did what was considered ‘more practical’—she pursued law, ultimately becoming a real estate lawyer. But many would never be able to tell. The actor, who played the role of a newspaper intern investigating a mysterious death on a flyover, in the acclaimed Kannada film U Turn, gave such a stellar performance, that she was awarded the Best Actress (Kannada) at the Filmfare Awards recently. Just eight films old, the accolades for her debut film have put her in the same league as established stars like R. Madhavan and Suriya, turning the spotlight on her acting prowess. Today, she is one of South Indian film industry’s most promising stars.
The rise of a star On days that she isn’t shooting or travelling for film promotions, Shraddha enjoys her time at home, indulging in baking and DIY-ing.
But she never thought things would pan out this way. As an army kid, she moved to many stations, finally settling in Bengaluru where she pursued higher studies and a career in law. “However, despite having a wonderful job, which involved travelling, I felt unfulfilled,” says Shraddha. So, she started looking to do theatre as a way to fulfil her love for acting. “While there was very little sleep, it was pure joy as my day started and ended with rehearsals,” beams Shraddha, whose major break was the critically acclaimed Eve Ensler play, The Vagina Monologues, in 2013. However, it was the powerful 2015 Facebook photo series, Coming Out, by LA-based photographer Arjun Kamath that brought her recognition. Depicting the agony same-sex lovers endure daily, the series went on to garner over 10,600 likes and more than 7,300 YouTube views. “Arjun captures emotions really well,” says the modest star. “He would throw instructions like ‘scream in anger, scream in pain’, which brought out the best in us,” she recalls. Advertisements followed and soon, out of the blue, she had a film offer for Malayalam film Kohinoor in her kitty.
Future as she sees it
the girl on fire
South Indian cinema’s current obsession, Shraddha Srinath bid adieu to law to chase her dreams of becoming an actor. text by meghna menon
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Shraddha is now set to charm audiences with her upcoming Telugu film. Apart from aspiring to work with legendary directors and actors, she aims to be a role model for others. With two of her films—Vikram Vedha, with R. Madhavan, and Operation Alamelamma having hit the theatres in July, Shraddha is in a happy place today, but still raring to go. ■
living | television
COMING HOME TO THE STARS Bollywood’s go-to interior designer, Ashiesh Shah is all set to give viewers an inside access into the homes of A-listers, in Fox Life’s new show, DESIGN HQ. We caught up with him to know more.
� I have learnt something from all my projects and clients, celebrities included.� What is DESIGN HQ all about?
It’s about decoding and getting the perfect interiors for your home. The show brings forth a creative facet of lifestyle for viewers—design and home décor. In addition to some great DIY tips, it also takes viewers into the homes of their favourite celebrities.
Who are the celebrities showcased in the series?
Hrithik Roshan, Aditya Roy Kapoor, Jacqueline Fernandes, Pernia Qureshi, Sussanne Khan, AD Singh and Sabina Singh, and Masaba Gupta, amongst others.
Everybody has a different home style. But which celebrity’s home did you admire the most and why? It’s hard to pick a favourite. Each space represents the personality of the home owner and I spent so much time on the projects that they all feel close to me. I love Hrithik’s study—we put in a lot of effort to customise it and create the aesthetic he wanted. In Jacqueline’s As told to Meghna Menon
�
home, I love the day bed and her bedroom; at Aditya’s, I love the main living area—it’s the perfect bachelor pad.
How adaptable, according to you, are the styles of celebrity homes for our readers?
I think they’re extremely adaptable and, like I mentioned earlier, there are a lot of tips and tricks, so that they can recreate the look.
What was the most exciting part about the show?
I’m looking forward to breaking down the design process for them. I want to show the celeb homes and, at the end of every episode, share interesting design hacks and tricks in a DIY segment, inspired from the celebrity home that I visit.
What is your own design aesthetic like?
My practice has evolved over the year and, with it, my philosophy on aesthetics. What has remained constant, however, is my
Ashiesh Shah speaks with entrepreneur Pernia Qureshi, left, and actor Hrithik Roshan, right.
belief in the aesthetic philosophy of Wabi Sabi. The Japanese concept is derived from Buddhist teachings, and is about accepting imperfection and embracing life as it is. Asymmetry and asperity play a major role in my practice. I appreciate spaces that incorporate natural objects and processes, and I try to maintain this principle in my own practice. Nothing is permanent, nothing is finished and nothing is perfect.
What inspires you?
There are actually a lot of different periods that I find inspiring and I often look at art, architecture, design and literature from those periods. My work doesn’t make direct references to any place, designer, architect or artist, but they become important elements in my creative process. I think some of Swiss-French architect Le Corbusier’s work is pure genius, with respect to both material as well as form. I’m also influenced by modern movements like the Bauhaus. ■ � September 2017 |
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living | nutrition
shake it off
A pinch here, a dash there—know what salt really means for your health and learn to keep tabs on how much you’re eating. text by alice oglethorpe | photograph by marty baldwin
MEASURE IT
THE TRUTH ABOUT SPECIALTY SALTS
Ideally you should keep your daily sodium intake to around 1,500 mg (about ⅔ teaspoon). The American Heart Association says most healthy people can have 2,300 mg daily, but some—especially if you’re older than 50—should stick to 1,500 mg. The main reason: Too much salt raises your risk for high blood pressure, which can increase your risk of stroke, heart disease and kidney problems.
SNEAKY SOURCES Most of the sodium we get—about 75%—comes from restaurant meals and packaged foods. Big culprits include soup, frozen meals, salad dressing, cold cuts, bread, cereal and cottage cheese. Check labels to keep tabs. If you’re eyeballing: 5% of the daily value (DV) (set at 2,400 mg by the FDA) or less sodium per serving (120 mg) is low in salt; 20% DV or more sodium per serving (over 480 mg) is high.
All types of salt have the same amount of sodium, but bigger granules (like those of sea salt and kosher salt) mean you get more flavour in one granule, so you can use less when sprinkling it on top of foods. And yes, specialty salts like Himalayan pink salts have minerals, but in such tiny amounts that you don’t really get any health benefits.
WHAT THE LOW-SALT CLAIMS MEAN
9 8
OF ADULTS EAT TOO MUCH SALT.
GOOD TO KNOW
SALT SWAP THE IODINE FACTOR One option if you’re trying to reduce sodium When buying table salt, get iodised. intake when you’re cooking at home: Your body needs iodine for thyroid health (the Low-sodium salt. It’s a mix of sodium chloride gland influences metabolism, growth and (typical salt) and potassium chloride. This body temp) and, if you’re pregnant, your alternative tastes a little less salty. baby’s brain development.
Many packaged foods market lower-salt versions. Here are the definitions of the terms according to the US Food and Drug Administration: Very low sodium: 35 mg of sodium or less per serving. Low sodium: 140 mg of sodium or less per serving. Reduced sodium: At least 25% less sodium than the regular product. Light in sodium or lightly salted: At least 50% less than the regular product.
DON’T FORGET THE KIDS Pay attention to their salt intake as well. More than 90% of children ages 4 to 18 get too much sodium. The upper limit is 2,300 mg for them, too. ■
EXPERTS Janet Brill, PhD, RDN, author of �Blood Pressure Down; Melinda Johnson, MS, RDN, clinical associate professor at Arizona State University, US
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BRAND CONNECT
living know-how t i p s a n d t r ic k s ffor or e v e r y d ay l i f e
A 2017 survey by
‘MONEY MATTERS’
observed the spending habits of 1,900 millennials, aged between 18 to 34, across countries, and came to the conclusion that about 41% of them have spent more of their hard-earned money on coffee than any form of retirement investing.
1. Eat well-distributed proteins throughout the day. This helps stabilise blood sugar levels, which further prevent cravings. 2. Supplement your diet with chromium and cinnamon. These also help regulate your blood sugar levels. 3. Avoid sugar in any form. Sugar is hidden everywhere. So, read your labels right. 4. Exercise at least six hours a week. This helps in enhancing insulin sensitivity and keeping the body in a fat loss mode. 5. Balance your meals with good liquids. Unsweetened lime water, buttermilk, vegetable juices and protein shakes are good choices.
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September 29
WORLD HEART DAY Ways to take care of your heart: Put down your cigarettes and quit smoking, cut salt by replacing packaged, processed foods with more fruits and vegetables, consume fewer sugarsweetened drinks, walk more and manage your stress levels.
Invest that money instead, and it’ll pay off: IN 10 YEARS You’ll be able to afford a foreign vacation. IN 20 YEARS Keep it up, and pay for one year of rent.
10 MINUTES
of low-intensity exercise, such as climbing the stairs, gives you more of a boost than 50 milligrams of caffeine—about the amount in an espresso.
TEXT : KARISHMA CHAWLA OF EAT RITE 24X7 (FOOD CRAVINGS); PHOTOGRAPHS: SHUTTERSTOCK.
ways you can curb and stop your cravings.
f r e s h f rom y o u r k i t c h e n Nutty, sweet and chewy, coconut adds just the right amount of texture and flavour to make anybody an instant convert.
n u o c t s o C
PHOTOGRAPH: GETTYIMAGES
We’re Going
…over these tempting desserts that pack a tropical punch. A break from the usual, we suggest you too give these a shot in your kitchen—everyone’s going to ask for more. compiled by meghna menon
food | celebrate
Mandaar Sukhtankar
the park hotel, hyderabad
Chocolate Coconut Tart INGREDIENTS
For the ganache: 30 gm butter 150 gm coconut milk 250 gm Belgian dark chocolate, chopped For the tart: 100 gm egg white 150 gm castor sugar 105 gm flour 175 gm dessicated coconut PREPARATION
With dessicated coconut making for a sturdy and delicious pie crust, these tarts are great for parties and celebrations, or even as an afterdinner sweet treat.
PHOTOGRAPH: GETTYIMAGES
1. For the ganache, heat butter and coconut milk together. Then, add chopped chocolate and stir to melt. Keep aside. 2. For the tart, cook egg white and castor sugar on a double boiler, stirring together till the sugar dissolves. Fold in the flour and dessicated coconut, and take the mix off the heat. 3. Line tart moulds and pour the tart mix in. Bake at 170°C for 12 minutes in a preheated oven. Once done, fill the baked tarts with chocolate ganache and allow to set in a cool place. Serve with whipped cream or as it is.
180 gm natural sugar, or palm sugar 2 eggs 2½ tbsp fresh lemon juice 30 ml milk, or 50 ml almond milk 1½ tsp lemon rind, grated
Rati Karwal
jim’s jungle retreat, corbett
PHOTOGRAPH: SHUTTERSTOCK
Gluten-Free Lemon Coconut Cake (with dairy-free substitutes) INGREDIENTS
150 gm butter (at room temperature), or 130 ml cold-pressed coconut oil 150 gm rice flour 1½ tsp baking powder 30 gm desiccated coconut
For icing: 100 gm icing sugar ½ tsp vanilla essence ½ tbsp hot water 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice ½ tsp lemon zest 3 tbsp fresh coconut flakes PREPARATION
1. Preheat the oven to 150°C. Prepare a small loaf tin by greasing with melted butter/ coconut oil and dusting it with rice flour and keep aside. Now, sieve baking powder and flour together. Mix in desiccated coconut and keep it aside. 2. In a separate bowl, beat together butter/ coconut oil and sugar till light and fluffy. Add lemon rind; mix well. Now, add one egg at a time while beating the mixture continuously.
Fold in the flour-coconut mix, alternating it with lemon juice and milk/almond milk, until just blended well. 3. Now, spoon the mixture into the prepared tin. Bake for 45 to 50 minutes, till the skewer comes out clean when inserted in the middle. Let the cake cool. 4. For the icing, mix icing sugar, hot water, lemon juice, lemon zest and vanilla in a bowl. Drizzle over the cake and sprinkle fresh coconut flakes on top. Enjoy it with a hot cup of coffee.
The unusual pairing of lemon and coconut is a perfect start to your affair with the tropical fruit. The sweet and tangy lemon icing is sure to make you lick your plate clean! � September 2017 |
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food | celebrate
Ajay Mathur
jaypee palace, agra
Cinnamon and Coconut Tapioca Cake INGREDIENTS
60 gm cream cheese 120 gm yogurt 3 eggs 150 ml coconut milk 50 gm coconut powder 5 gm cinnamon powder 100 gm sugar 100 gm tapioca starch 5 gm cinnamon stick, for garnish PREPARATION
This will easily be one of the best cakes you will ever make— perfect for when you have company. What’s more? You won’t get enough of the cinnamon in it. 112 �
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PHOTOGRAPH: GETTYIMAGES
1. Whip the cream cheese until smooth. Then add yogurt and mix well. Add eggs, coconut milk, cinnamon powder and fresh coconut powder. Mix sugar and tapioca starch separately, and add to the mixture. 2. Now, pour the mixture into greased cake moulds. Bake in a water bath at 180°C for 30 to 40 minutes. 3. Once done, remove from the oven and let the cake cool. Arrange in a bowl. Place a stick of cinnamon stick on top of the cake and dust with cinnamon powder.
Oh No Nanathi Coco Pina INGREDIENTS
Ansab Khan
burma burma, delhi
500 ml thick coconut milk 50 gm condensed milk (optional) 100 gm castor sugar + 2 tbsp 20 gm agar agar ½ tbsp butter 1 cup pineapple, chopped 500 ml pineapple juice 20 gm lecithin 2 tbsp butter scotch granules Edible flowers, as required PREPARATION
1. Mix coconut milk, sugar, condensed milk and soaked agar agar, and bring to a boil. Let cool and then set in moulds of desired shape. 2. Heat butter in a pan, add chopped pineapple
and sauté well. Now, add 2 tbsp castor sugar and continue to cook lightly. Do ensure that the pineapple pieces don’t get overcooked. 3. In a bowl, add lecithin to pineapple juice; mix with a hand blender till you get a stable foam. 4. On a serving platter, demould coconut custard and place cooked pineapple around. Crush butterscotch granules with a rolling pin and spread on the pineapple. Place 2 tablespoons of the foam on top and garnish with edible flowers. ■
Lecithin is often used in molecular cooking to create light and airy foams and mousses. It is available at specialised food stores. � September 2017 |
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food | everyday special
FAST & FRESH Easy, delicious recipes for a better dinner tonight. recipes by anna kovel photographs by blaine moats
GET OUTSIDE
COBB SALAD GRILLED CHICKEN
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TEXT: MAGGIE GLISAN; FOOD STYLING: GREG LUNA; PROP STYLING: SUE MITCHELL
Alfresco dining calls for no-fuss fare, like grilled chicken breasts paired with a Cobb-style salad, which can be made well ahead of time.
PILE IT ON
FRESH PEA & RICOTTA TARTINE
A tartine (a fancy French way of saying open-face sandwich) is simple cooking at its best. This one tops a generous spread of whipped ricotta with a medley of peas, but just about any vegetable works.
COBB SALAD GRILLED CHICKEN
These tricks make peeling hard-cooked eggs easier: Start with eggs that have been in the fridge for a week rather than super-fresh ones, and transfer eggs to a bowl of ice water immediately after cooking so they contract slightly in their shells. hands-on time 30 minutes total time 50 minutes INGREDIENTS 1 cup chopped red onion 3 tbsp red wine vinegar 1 tsp Dijon-style mustard 4 skinless, boneless chicken breast halves, pounded to ³�₄ inch thickness 3 tbsp olive oil 2 hard-cooked eggs, peeled and halved 1 ripe avocado, halved, pitted, peeled and sliced 60 gm blue cheese 1 head romaine lettuce, torn (8-10 cups) 6 slices bacon, crisp-cooked and coarsely crumbled PREPARATION
1. In a small bowl, stir together onion, vinegar, mustard and a pinch salt; let stand at least 30 minutes. 2. Meanwhile, season chicken on both sides with salt and black pepper; brush with 1 tbsp olive oil. Grill on rack of a covered grill directly over medium-high heat 8 to 10 minutes or until 80°C, turning once. 3. Divide chicken, egg halves, avocado, and blue cheese over romaine among four plates. Whisk remaining 2 tbsp olive oil into onion mixture; drizzle over salads. Sprinkle with bacon. Makes 4 servings. Each Serving 596 cal, 32 gm fat, 281 mg chol, 657 mg sodium, 11 gm carb, 5 gm fibre, 63 gm pro.
FRESH PEA & RICOTTA TARTINE
Whisking the ricotta smooths and fluffs the texture. For added richness, we prefer to use whole-milk ricotta rather than single-toned. hands-on time 25 minutes total time 35 minutes INGREDIENTS 500 gm carton whole-milk ricotta cheese 450 gm mixed fresh peas, such as sugar snap pea pods, snow pea pods, and/or shelled English peas 2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil ¹�₂ cup thinly sliced shallot 6 thick slices crusty bread, toasted or grilled 1¹�₂ cups pea shoots, pea sprouts, or baby lettuce leaves Champagne vinegar
PREPARATION
1. Whisk ricotta in a medium bowl for 30 seconds; season with salt and black pepper. Bring a large pot of salted water to boiling. Add peas. Cook 3 minutes or until bright green and crisp-tender. Drain in a colander; rinse with cold water. Drain well. 2. In a small skillet, heat oil over medium heat. Add shallot. Cook 7 minutes or until softened and just golden, stirring occasionally. Remove from heat. 3. Spread toasted bread slices generously with ricotta. Toss peas and pea shoots together; mound over ricotta. Spoon shallot mixture over all. Drizzle with vinegar. Sprinkle with flaky sea salt. Makes 6 servings. Each Serving 336 cal, 14 gm fat, 36 mg chol, 559 mg sodium, 37 gm carb, 5 gm fibre, 16 gm pro. � September 2017 |
� 115
food | everyday special
GREENS, EGGS & HAM FRITTATA
Spring onions look similar to green onions but have a larger bulb that varies from white to purple and tends to be milder and sweeter. The onions are interchangeable in recipes. hands-on time 20 minutes total time 50 minutes INGREDIENTS 10 large eggs 1¹�₂ cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese ¹�₂ cup finely grated Pecorino Romano or Parmesan cheese 4 to 6 thin slices smoked ham, torn into pieces 2 tbsp butter 2 tbsp olive oil 1 large spring onion or 4 green onions, sliced into thin rounds 300 gm mixed baby greens, such as chard, kale and/or spinach
THE ULTIMATE ONE-PAN MEAL
Made with whatever’s on hand, frittatas are good for dinner or breakfast, and leftovers make great to-go slices.
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PHOTOGRAPH: ANDY LYONS
PREPARATION
1. Preheat oven to 180°C. In a large bowl whisk together eggs, cheeses, ham, and ¹�₄ tsp black pepper. In a 10-inch skillet, heat 1 tbsp butter and 1 tbsp oil over medium heat until butter is melted. Add onion; cook and stir 2 minutes or until tender. Gradually add greens; cook and toss 2 minutes or until wilted. Transfer to a colander to drain, pressing out excess liquid. Stir greens into eggs. 2. In the same skillet, heat remaining butter and oil over medium heat until butter is melted. Pour in egg mixture. Bake 20 minutes or until slightly puffed and set. Remove; let cool 10 minutes before serving. Makes 6 servings. Each Serving 342 cal, 27 gm fat, 356 mg chol, 498 mg sodium, 3 gm carb, 1 gm fibre, 21 gm pro.
ROASTED TOMATO & ARTICHOKE PASTA
THE PAN THAT CAN Sheet-pan pasta sauce is our new favourite super-quick dish. Roast an antipastoinspired mix of cherry tomatoes, artichoke hearts, olives, and herbs and toss with pasta. It’s equally delicious hot or at room temperature.
� September 2017 |
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food | everyday special
FISH WITH CRISPY BREAD CRUMBS, SPINACH & ONIONS
EFFORTLESS UPGRADE
Elevate two of the easiest dinner components—sautéed fish and wilted spinach—with the addition of sweet onion, lemon slices, and crunchy tarragon-flecked bread crumbs.
ROASTED TOMATO & ARTICHOKE PASTA
When you drain the marinated artichoke hearts, don’t toss the liquid, which is often a flavourful mix of oil, vinegar, salt and spices. Use it for a quick vinaigrette, drizzle some over grilled vegetables or brush on baguette slices to toast in the oven. hands-on time 15 minutes total time 25 minutes INGREDIENTS 250 gm penne pasta ¹�₄ cup extra-virgin olive oil 200 gm jar quartered marinated artichoke hearts, drained 300 gm red and/or yellow cherry tomatoes ¹�₂ cup pitted Kalamata olives, drained 6 sprigs fresh thyme 6 sprigs fresh oregano ¹�₂ tsp crushed red pepper (optional) PREPARATION
1. Preheat the oven to 200°C. Cook pasta according to package directions. Drain; return to pot. Toss with 1 tbsp olive oil. 2. In a shallow baking pan toss artichoke hearts, tomatoes, and olives with remaining 3 tbsp oil, the herbs, and, if desired, crushed red pepper. 3. Roast 5 to 7 minutes or until tomatoes are sizzling and beginning to burst, stirring once. Transfer mixture to pot with pasta; toss to combine. Makes 4 servings. Each Serving 403 cal, 21 gm fat, 876 mg sodium, 47 gm carb, 3 gm fibre, 8 gm pro.
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FISH WITH CRISPY BREAD CRUMBS, SPINACH & ONIONS
Vidalia and Walla Walla onions are named for the cities in which they’re grown in Georgia and Washington, respectively, and prized for their sweet flavour. Both are available worldwide. total time 30 minutes INGREDIENTS 4 fresh or frozen skinless flounder, tilapia or cod fillets, ¹�₂ inch thick 2 lemons 1 cup coarse soft bread crumbs 1 tbsp chopped fresh tarragon ¹�₄ cup butter 1 tbsp olive oil 2 Vidalia or Walla Walla onions (500 gm total), halved and sliced (4 cups) 180 gm baby spinach PREPARATION
1. Thaw fish, if frozen. Pat dry with paper towels. Season with salt and pepper.
Slice one lemon; halve other lemon. In a medium bowl, toss bread crumbs with tarragon and a pinch salt. In a very large skillet, heat 1 tbsp butter over medium heat. Add crumb mixture. Cook and stir 4 to 5 minutes or until toasted. Remove from skillet. 2. In the same skillet, heat 2 tbsp butter and the olive oil over medium heat. Add onions and a pinch of salt. Cook and stir 10 minutes or until tender but not brown. Add lemon slices and spinach; toss until spinach is lightly wilted. Remove mixture from skillet. 3. Heat remaining 1 tbsp butter in the skillet over medium heat. Add fish. Cook 4 to 6 minutes or until fish flakes easily with a fork, turning once. Transfer to four plates; top with crumb mixture. Serve with spinach mixture. Squeeze lemon halves over each serving. Makes 4 servings. Each Serving 396 cal, 18 gm fat, 112 mg chol, 436 mg sodium, 25 gm carb, 5 gm fibre, 36 gm pro. ■
food | drinks
1 THE EXTREMELY LIGHT PISCO SOUR HAS A MOSTLY SWEET AFTERTASTE.
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PHOTOGRAPH: SHUTTERSTOCK
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things you need to know about pisco 9
What vodka is to Russia, pisco is to Peru. And with it now making waves in the food circles in India, we got mixologist Vineet Mishra to decode this brandy. as told to meghna menon
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It is a colourless brandy produced in Peru, by distilling fermented fresh grape musts, derived from specific grape varieties, in copper pot stills. Arequipa, Ica, Lima, Moquegua and Tacna are the only five recognised Pisco production zones in Peru. The popular Pisco Sour, Peru’s national cocktail, is made using pisco, lime juice, syrup, egg white and bitters. American bartender VV Morris invented it in the early 1920s when he tried to recreate his coveted whisky sour without the whisky. Other cocktails include Pisco Punch (using pineapple juice), Pisco Flip (egg yolks instead of whites) and Chilcano (with ginger ale). Peru celebrates National Pisco Day on the 3rd Sunday of July. On this day, one can drink unlimited pisco directly from water fountains in public areas. It means ‘bird’ in the pre-Hispanic Quechuan language. It also has its origin in the word ‘piskos’—clay pitchers made by an ancient Peruvian community of people. The drink has been around since the late 16th century. It is prohibited by law to add water, sugar or any other kind of additive in its making. Only a specific varietal of pisco grape musts (Quebranta, Mollar, Negra Criolla and Uvina as well as Italia, Moscatel, Torontel and Albilla) are used as the single ingredient. This is what sets it apart from other types of brandy. The hidden flavour profiles in it depend on the bees that helped in the pollination process. These flavours could, thus, be earthy, nutty, sweet, herbal or spicy. Cuatro Gallos, Barsol and Tabernero are the three most notable brands available in India. It is best enjoyed neat, much like a single malt whiskey. However, it’s versatility allows it to be used to prepare different types of cocktails. It can be used in cooking. Pisco Italia, with its citrus touches, can intensify the flavours of a lemon pie. Pisco Negra Criolla, which has hints of chocolate and coffee, is ideal for a tiramisu. It pairs wonderfully with seafood dishes. You can also braise your meat with Pisco to lend it a special flavour. ■ � September 2017 |
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food | build a better dish
new ways with
CARROTS
Yes, they are in our homes all year around, though in autumn and winter, carrots are at their best. To bring some freshness to those stale dishes, we present the humble carrot in a novel avatar. text by maggie glisan | photographs by andy lyons
RECIPES AND FOOD STYLING: GREG LUNA; PROP STYLING: SUE MITCHELL
COLOURFUL PERK: PURPLE CARROTS CONTAIN ANTHOCYANINS, WHICH CAN REDUCE THE RISK OF CANCER AND HEART DISEASES.
120 �
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INDIVIDUAL MASHED CARROT AND POTATO BAKES
In a pot, cook 450 gm carrots, cut into 2-inch chunks, and 450 gm potatoes, peeled and cut into 2-inch chunks, in lightly salted boiling water for 25 to 30 minutes or until very tender. Drain. Let stand 10 minutes to cool slightly. Transfer to a large bowl; coarsely mash. Stir in ¹�₂ cup heavy cream, 1 cup shredded white cheddar cheese, 1 lightly beaten egg, and ¹�₂ tsp salt. Divide mixture among four 8-10 ramekins. Bake at 220ºC for 25 minutes or until lightly browned. Serve with toasted rye bread. Makes 4 servings.
ROASTED CARROTS WITH CARROT-TOP PESTO
For pesto: Trim tops from 1 kg carrots; thoroughly rinse and dry. Strip basil leaves from stems; discard stems. Measure 2 cups loosely packed leaves of basil. Place in a food processor with basil, ¹�₃ cup grated Parmesan cheese, ¹�₄ cup toasted pine nuts, 4 halved garlic cloves and ¹�₄ tsp salt. With food processor running, puree while pouring in ¹�₃ cup olive oil in a stream, scraping sides as necessary; set aside. For carrots: Toss carrots with 2 tbsp olive oil, ¹�₂ tsp salt, and ¹�₂ tsp black pepper. Place in a baking pan; roast at 220ºC for 25 minutes or until tender. Serve with Carrot-Top Pesto. Makes 4 servings.
ROSEMARY & CARROT RIBBON PAPPARDELLE Using a vegetable peeler, cut 200 gm carrots into flat ribbons. Transfer to a large colander. Meanwhile, cook 200 gm dried pappardelle pasta in lightly salted boiling water according to package directions. Drain in same colander as carrots, reserving 1 cup cooking liquid. In a large skillet, heat ¹�₂ cup chopped toasted hazelnuts, 2 tbsp butter, 2 tbsp chopped fresh rosemary, and ¹�₂ tsp salt over medium heat until bubbling. Then add ¹�₂ cup reserved pasta water and 110 gm. goat cheese, whisking until combined. Add pasta and carrot mixture, tossing gently to coat. Add reserved cooking liquid to thin sauce as desired. Sprinkle with additional chopped toasted hazelnuts. Makes 4 servings. ■
� September 2017 |
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food | better cook
MAKING
FREEZER JAM
This ridiculously fast preserving method is the easiest way to enjoy the super-fresh taste of juicy fruits all year long. text by maggie glisan
FREEZER JAMS
require no special equipment or sterilising of jars, and thanks to new instant pectins (gelling agent), you don’t have to cook a thing. Just stir together chopped fruits, the pectin, sugar, and any flavourings, then freeze your jam.
PHOTOGRAPH: BLAINE MOATS (APRICOT-TANGERINE JAM)
APRICOTTANGERINE FREEZER JAM
122 �
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September 2017
BRANDIED STRAWBERRY FREEZER JAM
APRICOT-TANGERINE FREEZER JAM
PHOTOGRAPH: BLAINE MOATS (STRAWBERRY JAM); JASON DONNELLY (CHERRY-BERRY JAM)
hands-on time 25 minutes total time 55 minutes
BRANDIED STRAWBERRY FREEZER JAM hands-on time 25 minutes total time 55 minutes
CHERRY-BERRY FREEZER JAM
CHERRY-BERRY FREEZER JAM hands-on time 25 minutes total time 55 minutes
INGREDIENTS 1¹�₂ cups sugar 5 tbsp instant powdered pectin 8 apricots, pitted and finely chopped (3 ¹�₂ cups) 2 tbsp tangerine juice or orange juice
INGREDIENTS 8 cups hulled strawberries (1 kg) 1²�₃ cups sugar 5 tbsp instant powdered pectin 3 tbsp brandy ¹�₂ tsp lemon zest
INGREDIENTS 1²�₃ cups sugar 5 tbsp instant powdered pectin 2 cups finely chopped and pitted fresh or frozen tart red cherries 2 cups mashed blueberries ¹�₂ tsp lemon zest
PREPARATION
PREPARATION
PREPARATION
1. In a large bowl, stir together sugar and pectin. Add apricots and juice; stir well for about 3 minutes. 2. Ladle jam into clean, half-pint freezer-safe containers, leaving a ¹�₂-inch headspace. Seal and label. Let stand at room temperature for 30 minutes. Store in the freezer for up to 1 year or in the refrigerator up to 3 weeks. Makes 4 half-pints. Per Tbsp 27 cal, 10 mg sodium, 7 gm carb.
1. In a large bowl, crush 1 cup strawberries with a potato masher. Continue adding berries and crushing them until you have 4 cups of crushed berries. In a small bowl, stir together sugar and pectin. Add this to strawberries; stir in brandy and zest. Stir for 3 minutes. 2. Ladle jam into clean, half-pint freezer-safe containers, leaving a ¹�₂-inch headspace. Seal and label. Let stand at room temperature for 30 minutes. Store in the freezer for up to 1 year or in the refrigerator for 3 weeks. Makes 5 half-pints. Per Tbsp 26 cal, 8 mg sodium, 6 gm carb.
1. In a large bowl, stir together sugar and pectin. Add cherries, blueberries and zest. Stir for 3 minutes. 2. Ladle jam into clean, half-pint freezer-safe containers, leaving a ¹�₂-inch headspace. Seal and label. Let stand at room temperature for 30 minutes. Store in the freezer for up to 1 year or in the refrigerator for 3 weeks. Makes 4 half-pints. Per Tbsp 30 cal, 10 mg sodium, 7 gm carb. ■
INSTANT PECTIN Pectin, a soluble dietary fibre in fruits, thickens jams and jellies. Some fruits contain enough pectin to thicken jams on their own; others need a boost from commercial pectin, which can be found at most grocery stores and online (like amazon.in). For freezer jams, instant pectin is the best option. It not only turns jam making into a no-cook affair, but also requires the far less added sugar than regular pectin. � September 2017 |
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food | good to buy 1
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strong brews
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Telling unique stories of origin and design, these stylish and quirky teapots will make for great conversation starters the next time you have guests over. photograph by irina usova styling by mahima shukla
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1. Ceramic-glazed, `�899, Pepperfry 2. Vespashaped, `�2,999, Bent Chair 3. Yellow block, `�2,200, Nicobar 4. Rustic with sparrow lid, `�890, Fabindia 5. Piano keys, `�2,150, Crazy Daisy 6. Engraved stone, `�2,450, Nivasa 7. Floral print, `�6,980, Ishatvam. ■
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For more info, see Resources CHEESE BOARDS: COURTESY APARTMENT 9 LOCATION: COURTESY APARTMENT 9
ASSISTED BY NIDHIE GUJRAL AND LIMATOLA LONGKUMER.
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resources
SOME PRODUCTS SHOWN EDITORIALLY IN BETTER HOMES & GARDENS WERE SOURCED FROM THE FOLLOWING LOCAL VENDORS. FOR MORE INFORMATION OR DEALER LOCATIONS, CONTACT THE STORES BELOW.
ADDRESS HOME Mumbai: 14, Raghuvanshi Mills Compound, Senapati Bapat Marg, Lower Parel; 022/4004-0474. Delhi: N-3, Ground Floor, Part-1 Market, Greater Kailash I; 011/4171-9292; address-home.com APARTMENT 9 Delhi: N-9, Greater Kailash-I Market, 011/3243-8224; 12, Khan Market, 011/3266-8554. AVON nykaa.com BENT CHAIR bentchair.com BRUZAE A-14, Sector 80, Phase 2, Noida; 0120/4041-010.
HOME ARTISAN homesrtisan.in HOME LOFT homeloft.in INVHOME Delhi: 348, Sultanpur, M.G. Road; 011/2680-1811. N-1, Greater Kailash-I Market, Chandigarh: 230, 2nd Floor, Elante Mall; 0172/4028-114. ISHATVAM Delhi: 18-B, Khan Market, 011/4352-8381; 348-D, MG Road, Sultanpur, 011/2680-4344. KIKO MILANO amazon.in KONTEMPRA 12-A, Back Lane, Khan Market, Delhi.
COLORPHLEX amazon.in
MOROCCANOIL All leading salons
CRAZY DAISY Delhi: 17, Anand Niketan Market, 0/98181-21162. 24; Meher Chand Market, Lodhi Road, 011/2464-5087.
NAVYA 33, Meher Chand Market, Lodhi Road, Delhi; facebook. com/nayavimi.
FABINDIA N-14, Greater Kailash Part I, Delhi; 011/4669-3725. GIFTS OF LOVE Saket District Centre, Delhi; 011/4265-8155; giftsoflove.in GOOD EARTH Delhi: S-6, Select City Walk, A3, District Centre, Saket, 011/2956-5601. Mumbai: R154, Juhu Tara Road, 022/2611-2481; Raghuvanshi Mills, Lower Parel; 022/6451-2301; goodearthindia.com. 126 �
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September 2017
NELF USA nykaa.com NEMOZINE nemozine.com NICOBAR Bengaluru: Above Good Earth, No. 4 Walton Rd, Off Lavelle Road; 080/22112878. Delhi: Shop No. 79 & 80, Above Diva Spiced, Meher Chand Market, Fifth Avenue Rd, Lodhi Colony; 011/4905-7343. Mumbai: #IO Ropewalk Lane, Above Kala Ghoda Café; 022/2263-3877. 34, Guru Nanak Rd, Bandra West; 022/4971-3678; nicobar.com
NIVASA Delhi: 26, Meher Chand Market, Lodhi Road; 011/49050421. Gurgaon: 1, Ground floor, South Point Mall, Golf Course Road; 0124/498-5640. NUR Delhi: 71 A, Meher Chand Market, Lodhi Colony; 011/49050920. 23, Santushti Shopping Complex, 412 Air Force Station, Race Course Road; 011/2611-2971. nurhome.in NYX Available at Sephora. ORIFLAME Available through consultants; oriflame.co.in. PEPPERFRY pepperfry.com PURE HOME + LIVING A 2-B, 1st Floor, DLF Place, A4, District Centre, Saket, Delhi. QUIRK-STYLE STORY By appointment; 0/99100-88888. SAFOMASI safomasi.com SHADES OF INDIA 127, Meher Chand Market, Lodhi Road, Delhi; 011/4905-3333; shadesofindia.com THE BODY SHOP Delhi: 53A, Greater Kailash-I Market, 011/4173-5189. Mumbai: Inorbit Mall, Malad (West), 022/67102021. Kolkata: Avani Heights, Chowringhee Lane, 033/40060941; thebodyshop.in. ■
i did it!
This corporate professional-turnedfarmer repurposed an old tractor into a fun, funky bar table.
text by meghna menon photographs by karan takulia What others see as trash, Randeep Singh, 38, sees as an opportunity to innovate. How else does one explain the makeover he gave an unwanted tractor lying discarded on his farm in Hisar, Haryana? Today, its hood, an original Massey Ferguson, has been given a new lease of life as a repurposed bar in his house in Gurgaon. ■ THE MAKEOVER Randeep had access to a wide range of tools at his farmhouse since he was getting the area fenced. The welder, too, was a regular visitor and Randeep decided to use his spare afternoons (he works on the farm in the mornings and evenings) constructively, picking up skills. “I had seen the idea on the internet but the finished product is incorporated with my ideas and several permutations and combinations,” he says. He added the frames to the tractor hood (complete with restored original headlights and air filter), fixed a polished hard wood shelf to the bottom, repainted the body and added a 12 mm glass counter on the top to finish the piece. Two bar stools made using bicycle chains, sprockets and pedals as foot rests complete this quirky furniture. ■
Share your success story to get featured! Email photographs of you with your latest home project to bhandg@emmindia.com.