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AUGUST 2010 │the eclectic
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the eclectic │ AUGUST 2010
ONE LOVE, ONE NORTHEAST
August 2010 • Vol V • No. 2
CONTENTS
24 COVER STORY Meet the Mumbai-based dashing director Nissar Parvej and see why he’s dreaming big!
14 NE PERSONALITY Entrepreneur Asha Bora reveals her gutsy spirit to fight the odds
19 SPORTS Said to be the best of all grand slams, Wimbledon has a story to tell
43 SPOTLIGHT Bismillah Khan awardee, Sukracharjya Rabha on his passion for theatre
46 BEAUTY Another 5 tips to look beautiful the natural way
48 HOLIDAY 36 PALATE Raise a toast as you take a bite with champagne and tasty tidbits
Aditya Kiran Kakati looks back through his lens at Vaishno Devi
52 PHOTO FEATURE 40 LIFESTYLE Pamper your body in these beautiful
bathroom ideas
Drool over the magnificence of dawn and dusk!
54 RELATIONSHIPS Teen Dating Survey: A mustread for all parents!
August 2010 • Vol V • No. 2
CONTENTS
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NE TRAVEL
Why worry about passports and visas when you can visit the Switzerland of India, Manipur!
58 ESOTERICA The scariest place in India, welcome to Bhangarh fort. Be warned!
EMIXES
S
30. Bamboo can also be versatile, says, Rajib Goswami 38. Ten hot ways to keep romance alive despite the rain 44. Foot reflexologist Loni Agarwala on sole power
8 NE HAPPENINGS 22 CAREER 33 SHRINK YOUR HEAD 34 STANDPOINT 60 TAROT SCOPE 61 REVIEWS 64 MODEL OF THE MONTH 66 LAST WORD
the eclectic
EDITORIAL
magazine
CHAIRMAN
Parama Hazarika
EDITORIAL
HARMONY ON A SPOON
editor-in-chief Nibir Hazarika managing editor Tanushree Hazarika
L
executive editor Koushik Hazarika consulting editor Loya Agarwala business editor Rajat Agarwal contributing editor Nazneen Hussain
tanu@eclectic.co.in
et me take you back to your childhood for a moment: you are participating in a marble and spoon race at school. There you are, amongst all the other participants, with the spoon in your mouth waiting for the starting whistle. There’s a 100m gap between you and the finishing line and to be successful, you have to get to it before the others. When the whistle blows, you start running fast but you are careful to keep the spoon steady because you know there will be no point in finishing first without the marble still safely on it. Now let’s step out of the box: imagine that every 10 meters of that race represents a decade of your life and the finishing line represents a life-span of 100 years. Initially you start running really fast as you are young and carefree but as you get closer to the end, you become more and more careful about keeping the marble on the spoon because you don’t want to drop it after having come so far. And so it is with life, only that the marble represents the main components of success, such as health, relationships and mental peace, for without them, coming first in the race means nothing. It bears the crucial elements of harmony, which ultimately determine how motivated and successful we will be in the race of life. So it’s doubly important that, as we run along, we keep our marble firmly balanced on that spoon. In this issue, we bring you people who believe in the elements of harmony in achieving success. Young director Nissar Parvej says “I’ve been very fortunate to have the support of my family who really encouraged me to go ahead and live my dream.” Our NE Personality for this month, entrepreneur Asha Bora, believes, “If you really have the courage to stand up for what you believe in, success will be yours.” If following your passion brings you mental peace, then you too may reap a reward of accomplishment like theater personality Sukracharjya Rabha who has recently been awarded the Bismillah Khan Award by the Sangeet Natak Akademi or Rajib Goswami, whose dedication in making bamboo products on a commercial scale, has fetched him the North East Excellence Award, 2009. So you see, maybe it’s true that life’s success comes to those who reach the finishing line with the elements of harmony still safely on that spoon. Have you checked what’s on yours?
Happy Reading!
(Consulting Editor)
CREATIVES layout artist Madhusmita Das graphic designer Dipankar Saikia
BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT director – Bibha Hazarika
guwahati – +91 99575-62510 bangalore – D. Kant Venkat +91 98454-47778 ● ads.bangalore@eclectic.co.in delhi – Ad Space Mart +91 98108-02411 ● ads.delhi@eclectic.co.in hyderabad – Shankar +91 98493-87829 ● ads.hyderabad@eclectic.co.in jaipur – Pradeep Rathore +91 93514-89564 ● ads.jaipur@eclectic.co.in kanpur – Pankaj Saxena +91 99350-61124 ● ads.kanpur@eclectic.co.in kolkata – Abhijit Sahu +91 98310-61511 ● ads.kolkata@eclectic.co.in mumbai – Mousumi Moitra +91 98195-79758 ● mousumi.m@eclectic.co.in Ad Space Mart +91 98212-97747 ● ads.mumbai@eclectic.co.in pune – Ashutosh Mishra +91 93703-35548 ● ads.pune@eclectic.co.in
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administrative officer Prasanta Talukdar assistant administrative officer Monjari Mahanta CONTACT US
head office Eclectic House • 34, PB Road • Rehabari • Guwahati Assam • India • PIN 781008 landline +91-361-260 68 95, mobile +91-94355 44836 fax +91-361-260 28 40 emails info contact@eclectic.co.in editorial editorial@eclectic.co.in subscription subscribe@eclectic.co.in advertisement ads@eclectic.co.in website www.eclecticmag.com Edited, printed and published by Nibir Hazarika on behalf of Eclectic Media Enterprises Pvt. Ltd, Eclectic House; 34, PB Road, Rehabari, Guwahati - 781008. Printed at Swapna Printing Works Private Limited Doltala, Doharia, P.O.- Ganga Nagar, Dist- North 24 Paraganas, Kolkata- 700 132 Design © Eclectic Media Enterprises Pvt. Ltd Copyright © 2010. All rights reserved throughout the world. Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission is strictly prohibited. Every effort has been made to contact copyright holders. The publishers apologize for any omissions, which they will be pleased to rectify at the earliest opportunity. The views expressed in this magazine are those of the authors and do not necessarily represent the views of the editor.
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FAN MAIL T
hank you and congratulations for the July’10 issue of TE. The team spirit and dedication behind the good work is praiseworthy. We appreciate it. Anamika Chaliha, jd institute of fashion technology, Guwahati. Thank you for your appreciation, it’s like fuel to our motivation! - TE Team
I
am a regular reader of TE and I find it very interesting and educative, especially the article ‘Rainmaker’ (July issue). It’s good to see that you guys have focused on some superstitious beliefs of Assam that are still followed in our society. But, if we look at it otherwise, it also shows the fun and innocent side of the people of Assam. Gourav Saikia, Dibrugarh You are right, there is always a different perspective to everything, which we like to show too! Thanks a lot! - TE Team
I
have been a regular reader of TE and it has become a part of my life. The photo feature ‘Innocence’( June issue) has truly touched my heart and also made me feel nostalgic about my childhood days. Childhood is truly the most memorable and the most wonderful stage of a man’s life. Gitanjali Das, via email Childhood is truly memorable for all of us and we tried to bring out that ‘innocence’ with this photo feature. Glad you liked it - TE Team
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fter a long time I read a really good quality magazine from the Northeast. Thank you so much and please keep up the good work. Mizo Prova Borah, via SMS. Thank you so much, keep reading and feel free to give in your valuable feedback - TE Team
I
have been reading TE for the last one year and found the magazine very informative and interesting. You wouldn’t believe but TE has actually helped me to pass my 11th standard exams very well. Keep it up and all the best. Gwshad Basumatary, Kokrajhar , via SMS Wow, maybe we relaxed your mind! Thanks a lot, keep reading and keep passing your exams! - TE Team
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t’s a great pleasure to see such an innovative and stylish magazine like TE from the Northeast. I am sure it will soon capture the international readers also. Keep rocking, keep up the spirit, long live TE. I loved the photo feature ‘Innocence’ (June issue) and the cover story on Arunima Sharma. Pinky Poddar, Silchar We are overwhelmed, thank you very much! Readers like you are an integral part of our lives also - TE Team
July 2010
LETTER OF THE MONTH
I
am a regular reader of TE, and I really appreciate the hard work which goes into making it an outstanding magazine. It’s a very informative magazine with excellent graphics and presentation-truly the number#1 magazine from Northeast India! Keep it up. Abhijit Roy, via email We are truly honoured, it’s readers like you who make the magazine number# 1 – TE Team
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would like to thank TE for featuring the cover story on Arunima Sharma (June issue). She is a fine actor and we hope to see her back on the screen soon. I also liked the piece on Mauritius too. Keep up the good work! Kashvi Bachyas, Guwahati. Thank you so much, we will definitely convey your message to her - TE Team
Abhijit Roy’s letter is adjudged the Letter of the Month and he will receive a Free
1-year subscription of the eclectic and a gift hamper worth Rs. 1000/from GARNIER
WRITE TO US AT: TE MAILBOX, ECLECTIC HOUSE, 34 P.B. ROAD, REHABARI, GUWAHATI-781008 OR MAIL US AT: editorial@eclectic.co.in, OR SMS US AT: +91 94355-44836
NE HAPPENINGS
CONCEPT CARS T
he Toyota Kirloskar group ventured into compact cars - the Etios concept - which is said to be a world premiere product. Toyota launched this product in their two-day world exclusive Toyota Q auto show in Guwahati recently. Toyota, whose other cars like the Innova, Corolla and Fortuner have been extremely popular amongst the masses, now brings the Etios concept models, the Sedan and Hatchback. These cars were first unveiled at the Delhi Auto Expo, where the cars were well appreciated. Guwahati is the 8th city in the second phase of the Toyota Q world. Commenting on the occasion, Mr. Venkat Krishnan, DGM, Sales, Toyota Kirloskar Motor Pvt Ltd said, “ We would like to engage car enthusiasts and customers from across India and not limit this experience to just one city. This is an opportunity for us to get direct feedback from customers across the country, which will in turn help us to further improve our products and services and serve them better”.
FOR A SPEEDY RECOVERY M
embers of Progoti Silpi Sangha, Women’s Wing, recently visited the residence of Bhupen Hazarika at Nizarapar to wish him a speedy recovery. Bhupen Hazarika, who has been ailing recently, was actively involved with the club in his early days and his brother Jayanta Hazarika too was an important member of the association. The members composed and performed a special song dedicated to Hazarika. The President of the Club, Rita Bhuyan, along with the Secretary and Cultural Secretary felicitated Bhupen Hazarika with a citation, a traditional paat gamocha and a bunch of kopou flowers.
SUPER 10
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the eclectic │ AUGUST 2010
S
ohum Shoppe, one of the pioneers of regional chains in the Northeast, celebrated its tenth anniversary recently. To commemorate the occasion, a shopping carnival was organized from 30th June to 18th July, 2010. Over the years, Sohum Shoppe, has been one of the most popular shopping destinations for shoppers across the Northeast dealing in all leading brands, especially in the apparel and fashion accessory segment. The family mega store has also received the Best Fashion Retailer award of the Northeast with 16,000 members and 8,200 permanent customers as part of its data base. Director of Sohum Shoppe Limited, Mr. M.L Jalan, said, “Just as an infant, our first steps also trembled, but with due course of time, we not only stood firmly but walked ahead and made ourselves strong and capable. We are very thankful to all our customers, suppliers, media persons, employees and friends who have given us an opportunity to serve them, without whose contribution, we would not have reached where we are today.”
The First class Business hotel In North East India Kiranshree Portico, A centrally air conditioned has 61 well-appointed rooms, including Presidential Suite , Chairman Suite , Corporate Suites , Royale Club Rooms , Elegant Club Rooms. The Rooms are spacious and tastefully embellished. All the rooms include a tea/ coffee maker, a well stocked mini bar, data ports, L.C.D. T.V., electronic safe lockers and other modern amenities in all category rooms .For the culinary delight the White Pearl, our multi cuisine restaurant, The Mezz9, our Coffee Shop & the @mosphere the cozy bar The hotel has an efficient 24 hour room service as well as offers the best of Conference & Banqueting facilities 15 to 500 PAX at Crystal, Coral, Onyx, Topaz & sapphire. Thus ensuring Kiranshree Portico, Guwahati would be the perfect venue for your conferences, meetings, interviews, seminars, weddings and parties.
Paltan Bazar, G.S Road ,Guwahati-781008 Mob No:+91 9706098015 Ph No : +91 361-2735300-10 Fax : +91 361-2735311 Email ID : reservations@ kiranshreeportico.com Web Site: www.kiranshreeportico.com
Take a tour of the picturesque valley through the lens of Ritu Raj Konwar
Manipur estled among the blue-green hills and valleys, Manipur is regarded as the Switzerland of India, in an apt description by Lord Irwin. An exotic landscape with gently undulating hills, emerald green valleys, blue lakes and dense forests, Manipur is a land that appeals by its sheer beauty. There is a tranquility enveloping it, interrupted only by a soft breeze that sets it apart from the other Northeastern states, and makes it the ideal getaway. With a comfortable climate almost year through, Manipur literally meaning the ‘Land of Jewel’ - is a paradise on earth where Mother Nature has been extra generous with her beauty.
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ONE LOVE, ONE NORTHEAST
NE TRAVEL
The princely state of Manipur has always been a shinning outpost of the country in the eastern Himalayas. Imphal, the capital city, lies in a heart shaped valley 790 m above sea level. This is a melting pot of various tribes that constitute the populace of Manipur. Tourist attractions in Manipur are mostly located in and around the city.
A couple out fi shing in the Loktak Lake.
Imphal is well connected by road as well as by air. Regular bus services are available from Assam and Nagaland through NH-39 to Imphal. Apart from buses, Sumo services are also available from Imphal to Kohima and Dimapur. There are regular flights to Imphal from Guwahati and Delhi.
A view of Loktak Lake
People using canoes for transporting goods in and around Loktak lake.
Forty eight kms from Imphal, is the largest freshwater lake in the Northeast region, the Loktak lake, which is a veritable miniature inland sea. Its beauty has earned it the sobriquet ‘Jewel of Manipur’. The rich biodiversity and uniqueness of habitat resulted in its designation as a ‘wetland of international importance’ under the Ramsar Convention. Considering the economic value of the lake to the communities that depend on its resources, it is also called ‘the lifeline of Manipur valley’. The islands of Loktak are unique as they ‘float’ and comprise of marshes (grass and root) of solid earth.
Situated on the fringes of the Loktak Lake is the Keibul Lamjao National Park. It is the only floating national park in the world and is formed by run-off soil particles in the lake which get bound by the roots of AUGUST 2010 │the eclectic
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LEFT & TOP: Views of the Keibul Lamjao National Park.
A Brow Antlered ‘Sangai’ Deer is also called the ‘dancing deer’ because of its preference for the floating vegetation or phumdis.
various species of aquatic plants and grasses. The floating mats locally called phumdi remain afloat due to its low specific gravity. The Brow Antlered Deer of Manipur (also known as Sangai), which live in small herds and feed on marshy vegetables and grasses, is a Schedule One species and one of the most endangered deer in the world. Less than 100 of this species are found only in Keibul Lamjao National Park in Manipur.
The author is a senior news photographer for a leading daily. Photos: Ritu Raj Konwar
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ONE LOVE, ONE NORTHEAST
NE PERSONALITY
ALL ODDS Sheer determination and faith define entrepreneur Asha Bora’s journey through life, says Nazneen Hussain
the consequent responsibilities that it entails. When I was managing the pharmacy, I would often find young, unmarried girls asking for contraceptive or abortion pills. I felt concerned about the way they were just wasting their lives in a frivolous manner, which was also affecting their health, even though they didn’t realize it then. Besides, the sight
of the much-abused bodies of the drug addicts who would come to the pharmacy stirred something inside me. I would call them inside, talk to them, counsel them about life and how they were wasting it. I always had this feeling in me where, if I saw something going wrong, I’d look for an alternative or a solution.” With such an inherent need
i
f you were to drive up the beautiful path leading to the soothing green and clean environs of Greenwood Resort at Khanapara to meet the owner, you’d probably expect a very business-like person to crisply answer your questions. But, it is an all-pervading, quiet sense of humility that takes you by surprise and makes entrepreneur Asha Bora stand out in a crowd. Born of a Sri Lankan father and a Khasi mother, she became a lady entrepreneur twenty-two years ago by opening the first pharmacy in Guwahati that offered services 24x7. Initially, she had to put up with a lot of ridicule and threats for not speaking in Assamese but, years later, having seen some of the darker aspects of life, she wanted to do something different. “For me, entrepreneurship is not only about making money. I see it as an opportunity to promote a healthy society with a positive mindset,” explains Bora.“You see, I was deeply perturbed to witness the deteriorating values in society as the young boys and girls would end up indulging in all kinds of physical intimacy without realising
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ONE LOVE, ONE NORTHEAST
to help others, she converted the farmhouse at Khanapara, that her father-in-law had gifted her along with the land, into the resort. “So, in a way, you could say that Greenwood Resort was born out of a deep need to offer young people a place to meet and talk, to know themselves properly rather than meet in a clandestine manner and end up making a mess of their lives. I wanted to show them a positive way of life where they didn’t necessarily need to hide from their families. Besides, I would tell them that if they were serious, they should get financially independent and settle down. This sense of social responsibility to inculcate better values and build a healthy society is what drives me and all my actions and behaviour,” explains Bora. “I’m thankful that my husband married me because my success would not have been possible if my father-in-law had not gifted me the land but, everything else that has gone into the making of the resort was from my own hard work and money,” she reveals. There were times when she had to take supplies on credit, and it was the tremendous www.eclecticmag.com
goodwill that she enjoys with people from various fields that has helped her through crucial stages in the development of her business. The North Eastern Development Finance Corporation Ltd, (NEDFi) also helped her by providing financial assistance. Incidentally, it is not just the profit that matters and this is evident from the fact that she has also opened a weaving centre at the resort which employs women, giving them an opportunity to express their skills as well offer them some financial assistance; these women are earning a respectable living by weaving exquisitely beautiful sarees, mekhela chadors with intricate designs, gamochas and stoles. Her products wear the ‘Silk Mark’ tag which itself is a certification about their genuine quality. These command a good
demand from tourists, especially foreigners, who admire the products. As the conversation unfolds, I discover a very humane, God-fearing woman whose eyes well up at the recollection of many memories that undoubtedly have left indelible impressions on her mind and heart. It is the face of a woman who has stood her ground against all odds and emerged stronger, her belief in humanity unshaken by the vicissitudes of life. I realise that her every action is based on deeply embedded values and that there exists an undeniable spiritual link between her actions and business. In a world of purely materialistic gains, Bora’s life is exemplary in that she shows by her actions, rather than her words. By doing so, she gains not only the respect of her staff, but she
Awards: The Best Businesswoman of The State by North East Women Entrepreneurs’ Association for the year 2005-2006 AUGUST 2010 │the eclectic
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Elected as a delegate to go to South Africa from NSIC Elected as a delegate to visit Egypt by CII 16
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also indicates how a negative person can transform into a really positive one. She slips into her roles of a mother, a counsellor and an entrepreneur as and when the situation demands, with an effortless ease, born out of an inherent sense of judgement to see a positive side in everything. Slowly but surely, her work began to get recognition and today, she is on the board of a number of important and prestigious organisations. She is the founder of Matri Association, the founder-member of North East Women Entrepreneurs’ Association, All Assam Horticultural Society, and the SOS. She also helps children by supporting them for education. She has been recently selected as a delegate by CII (The Confederation of Indian Industry) to represent Assam, and will visit Spain and Portugal for the promotion of tourism and textile in Northeast India. In a thrust towards development, her plans include the opening of a mini stadium at the resort and also a multiplex. This would offer employment opportunities to at least a segment of the population, while providing entertainment to others. So, what is it that makes Asha Bora the success story that she is? “Well, I feel it is courage, confidence and belief in yourself that are really important. You may face immense hardships in your life, but if you really have the courage to stand up for what you believe in, success will be yours. But, success is not something that you simply equate with money. It is the sum total of the relationships that you share with the people around you, and the larger world. It is the goodwill that you enjoy, the blessings that you receive and a host of other things that can never be measured in terms of money. The profit will come only when you behave well with the people and set an example,” she says. Her message to readers? “Have selfconfidence, sincerity and love the work that you do. Be humble of what you are, because the symptom of downfall is pride. And be positive,” smiles Bora. Quietness has a certain depth and strength to it. If these qualities were to be given a human name, Asha Bora would fit the bill. Perfectly. Photos: S.H. Patgiri.
ONE LOVE, ONE NORTHEAST
eclectic MODEL HUNT All you beautiful girls out there, here’s some big news. the eclectic magazine is organising “ECLECTIC MODEL HUNT”, a mega event that will give you the most glamorous platform to prove your talent to the world. From dainty darlings to dazzling divas, if you want to turn into a star overnight, this is one place you’d do anything to be in. The winner has lots of surprises for her in store. Along with a lot of goodies, she also gets a portfolio shoot and will get to be the cover face of THE ECLECTIC MAGAZINE. So, what are you waiting for? Just fill up the form below and rush in your entries to: ECLECTIC MODEL HUNT 2010
Eclectic House, 34, P. B. Road, Rehabari, Guwahati - 781008 Call us at +91 94355-44836. Email us at modelhunt@eclectic.co.in. The last date for entries is 12th September, 2010. ELIGIBILITY: You must be single, between the age group of 18-24 years, and with a height of not less than 5’2”. Fill up the form provided below with all the details and also send at least 3 photographs of yours.
REGISTRATION FORM NAME ____________________________________________ DATE OF BIRTH (DD/MM/YY): _____ / ____________/ _____________ FATHER’S NAME _____________________________________________ NATIONALITY ________________________ OCCUPATION _________________________ QUALIFICATION ______________________________________________ ADDRESS ___________________________________________________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________ MOBILE: _____________________________E-MAIL: _____________________________________ HEIGHT (FT.): ____________ WEIGHT ___________ (Kgs):___________________AGE ___________________ VITAL-STATISTICS __________
__________ __________
HOBBIES: ___________________________________________________________________ WHERE & HOW DID YOU HEAR ABOUT US? _________________________________________________________________ WHY DO YOU WANT TO PARTICIPATE IN THE ECLECTIC MODEL HUNT 2010? (In not more than 20 Words) ______________________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________________ HAVE YOU EVER TAKEN PART IN ANY MODEL HUNT / BEAUTY PAGEANT BEFORE? [If your answer is yes, please state the competition you’ve participated in and the position won (if any).] Tick where appropriate. Yes: ________ No: ________ ___________________________________________________________________________________________________________ _____________________________________ I, ____________________________, declare that the information given above is true. The management reserves the right to disqualify me at any point of the competition if any information that I’ve provided is found incorrect.
DATE
The contest is open only to girls from the Northeast • Incomplete forms are not valid • The selected contestants should make themselves available for the specified days of the contest • All travel expenses to be borne by the contestant • All travel risks to the venue of the event will be borne by the contestant • Management reserves the right to use the photographs, interviews, and video footage of the contestants for sales promotion, advertising, and live / recording programming • Dates of the contest can change due to extraneous events beyond our control • Prizes or gifts are non-transferable and no substitutes will be given • Any legal dispute will be subject to the jurisdiction of the Courts of Guwahati only.
NAME & SIGNATURE
SPORTS
THE WIMBLEDON
EXPERIENCE
A first-hand account of the thrilling tennis tournament that holds the focus of the tennis world for two weeks every year
www.eclecticmag.com
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t is difficult to pinpoint exactly why the Wimbledon tennis championship is considered to be one of the most prestigious of all the grand slam events, but if you ask me, I would simply say that you’ve got to come to this quaint little London suburb during the tournament to experience why. The excitement starts as soon as you join the queue and, as you inch closer and closer to the infamous purple and green insignia nestled within the wall of ivy, your mind does a slow rewind of how the most iconic of tennis players had possibly walked along the very stretch you are standing on. If you look back into the annals of history, you’ll get an inkling of its uniqueness. For a start, it’s the oldest tennis tournament in the world, having been held at the All England Club since 1877 and, unlike all the other grand slams, remains loyal to the term ‘lawn tennis’ since all matches
AUGUST 2010 │the eclectic
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are still played on grass. And whether you marvel or smirk about it, it is perhaps the traditions of Wimbledon that bind this extraordinary place to the helm of the racketing world : the compulsory wearing of all-white garb by all participating players, the royal patronage, the eating of strawberries and cream or the drinking of Pimms (gin-based beverage), to name but a few. To get into the courts, many people still camp overnight and this is considered to be part of the Wimbledon experience; though not officially endorsed, the All England club even provides toilet and water facilities for people who do! Getting into the famed courts is primarily through pre-paid tickets but Wimbledon is the only grand slam where fans without tickets can still queue for seats for the three main courts, namely Centre Court, Court 1 and Court 2.
Andy Roddick
PAST PLAYERS • Ramnathan Krishnan was the first and only Indian male to reach the Wimbledon Singles Semis in 1959 and 1960 respectively. He lost to the eventual winner both times. • Though Sania Mirza is the highest ranked female tennis player ever from India, having been seeded in a Grand Slam tennis tournament, she is yet to make an impact in Wimbledon. • The fastest 1st serve was recorded by Andy Roddick at 248 km per hr. In the women's game, Venus Williams holds the record at 206 km per hr. • Sweden’s Bjorn Borg won five successive victories between 1976 and 1980 and, for three of those years, was the King of Clay (French Open) as well as grass (Wimbledon). • The youngest male Wimbledon singles champion was Germany's Boris Becker, who won the men's singles title in 1985, aged 17 years 227 days. 20
the eclectic │ AUGUST 2010
Serena Williams
• Martina Hingis of Switzerland, was 15-years, 282days old, when she won the women’s doubles with Helena Sukova of Czech Republic, in 1996. • American Pete Sampras won a record seven titles without the challenge round, from 1993 to 1995 and 1997 to 2000. • Martina Navrátilová captured the Ladies' Singles title 9 times during her career. • The 2008 final, between Spain’s Nadal and Switzerland’s Federer, lasted four hours and fortyeight minutes making it the longest match in Wimbledon's history. • John McEnroe is the only player to have been denied membership in 1981, because of his on-court behaviour during the championships. ONE LOVE, ONE NORTHEAST
Once you are in, you have entered what I can only call the ‘Wimbledon wonderland’. Tennis fanatics from all over the world may greet you in acknowledgement of simply being a fellow part of the privileged few who are ‘feeling’ the experience instead of ‘seeing’ it on a flat screen. Yes, you do feel lucky being physically part of the most esteemed tennis tournament in the world. Even luckier are those who may glimpse their favourite player in person, as they browse between courts or in action, on the courts. And believe me, no television camera can replicate the buzz you will get from seeing chalk dust fly, the trickle of sweat down a players face, the palpable excitement of a set point or simply the camaraderie and ambience of the crowd. Wimbledon is a total experience, an amalgamation of sensory overload, enough to reinforce that this tournament is not just a simple game of hitting a ball over a net by top players; it’s an entire package that can only be experienced to be understood.
DID YOU KNOW? • Due to the possibility of rain during Wimbledon, an £80 million retractable roof was installed prior to the 2009 Championship, but in this year’s tournament, critics called it an ‘expensive sunshade’ as it wasn’t required. • Fans can watch tennis from Henman Hill, a grassy area located at the far ends of the grounds, which broadcasts important matches from a giant television screen. • From 2006, the ball boys and ball girls were outfitted in new navy blue and cream-coloured uniforms made by American designer Ralph Lauren. • Though previously required to bow or curtsy to members of the Royal family seated in the Royal box, it is no longer mandatory for players to do so, unless the Queen or the Prince of Wales are present. • It was usual for tennis tournaments to award more prize money to the men's events than women's events; in 2007, Wimbledon changed this policy, giving the same money for both events. (Facts source : Wikipedia) Words: Loya Agarwala
Fashion Passion
CAREER
Keep yourself in the know with the latest happenings in the fashion world by becoming a fashion journalist, says Antara Buzarbaruah.
F
or those who have a keen eye on the latest fashion styles and trends, fashion journalism is definitely an interesting and sought-after career to pot for. Fashion journalism is an umbrella term used to describe all aspects of published media, especially fashion features in magazines, newspapers and books. Whenever there is a major fashion event, we often see fashion journalists commenting on the latest trends on the runway and on the red carpet. But with the entry of so many fashion magazines and television channels related to the fashion world, there is a dearth of fashion reviewers and journalists.
Since one gets paid to write or comment on the latest fashion trends, one can definitely work for a fashion magazine or can even freelance. Typical work includes writing or editing articles or helping to formulate and style a fashion shoot. Fashion journalists with training in news gathering and reporting may be asked to write about fashion trends, fashion shows and fashion collections or provide photo features of the particular area they cover. Working for magazine gives a lot of exposure to the various career pathways that a fashion journalist can choose from depending on their personal strengths and calibre. Some paths include : writer, staff writer, editor, columnist, author, press release writer and marketing copywriter.
To excel in this field, students should not only be up to date with international couture, trends and styles but also have creative writing skills with training in the techniques of news gathering, objectivity and layout. An eye for aesthetics and a thorough knowledge about the technical and the non technical aspects of fashion is also helpful. www.eclecticmag.com
A fashion journalist will generally spend a lot of time researching and conducting interviews and so it is necessary to have good contacts within the industry. Aspiring fashion journalists may even travel to fashion cities like Tokyo, Paris, Milan, New York to attend fashion shows and report on them. But in order to keep in the forefront of this fast moving industry, one should read up on editorial critique and commentary found in magazines, fashion websites, social networks and fashion blogs and even on television. These will definitely help to understand ‘how the job is done’.
For most people, fashion is synonymous with style and sophistication. It is all about what celebrities wear on the red carpets or on the glamorous page 3 parties. But Indian fashion journalism should address all aspects of the business of fashion and not just remain people-centric. Sadly, fashion in India till now has failed to focus on the serious and relevant issues of the industry and has restricted itself to the colourful and the glossy part only. Fashion journalism in addition needs to focus on reporting the news – like the state of domestic markets, export markets, technology, retailing global trends, situation analysis etc. So, if you have a zeal for the fashion industry you must remember that it is quite a glamorous and attractive career choice and anyone can get captivated very easily. Unless you have a flair for fashion, an interest in style and a passionate involvement in anything to do with fashion, it’s important to think carefully before jumping into the world of fashion. The author is a fashion journalist AUGUST 2010 │the eclectic
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Young director and guy with the boy-next-door look, Nissar Parvej unveils himself in a freewheeling conversation with Nazneen Hussain Photos: Gorky 24
the eclectic │ AUGUST 2010
S
oooooo sorry, girls! Bad news for you. This handsome young man is already committed. He has met his match, you see. Oooooh! I can almost hear your hearts breaking into a thousand pieces. But, at least you’ll have the comfort in knowing that he is very much from Guwahati, though settled in mayanagri Mumbai. He is the face behind a host of popular TV serials like Dil Mil Gaye, Mile Jab Hum Tum on Star Plus and Star One, the most recent being Geet, currently telecast on Star One. He has a bag full of serials on the top channels under his belt. So, welcome to a journey behind the small screen! To leave the comforts of home and seek your passion in an extremely competitive city where Bollywood dreams are made of, doesn’t seem to be the wisest of decisions to many. But, it is this madness, and the passion to step into direction that saw a straightout-of-college Nissar Parvej leave Assam and follow his heart to Mumbai. How did it all begin? “Well, I went to St. Anthony’s in Shillong to study Mass Communication since I was interested in direction and the entire process that goes into it. I chose direction because I was quite sure that this was what I wanted to do,” reveals Parvej. By the time his course was over around 2001, he knew that he had to go Mumbai to study further and learn more. “My father told me that since I was so interested,
it would be better to move base to Mumbai where I could at least find out the avenues, opportunities while also completing my post-graduation which I was subsequently doing in St. Xavier’s,” he explains. However, everything didn’t arrive on a silver platter. “While I was studying for my post-graduation, I started working for BPL phones in the marketing department. But I left it within a few days, as I realized that it wasn’t what I wanted to do. Then I
ONE LOVE, ONE NORTHEAST
COVER STORY
“By God’s grace and by the blessings of my parents, I’ve been able to do what I’ve always dreamt about. You can make your dreams come true if you really work hard and have the patience to face the obstacles in life.”
www.eclecticmag.com
AUGUST 2010 │the eclectic
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joined ORG-Marg which was better as it was an interactive job and I also learnt some skills,” smiles the soft-spoken Parvej. But there was a phase where I wanted to do something really practical, or get some hands-on experience with any filmmaking unit. I was so desperate that I wanted to do anything as long as I could be just involved in the unit. Around that time, a BBC crew came down and they were shooting a documentary. I worked as a runner-boy there, going around asking people if they would like to have their tea, you know. It was fun being part of the excitement and I loved it. My interest in the film must have been evident, although I didn’t realise it then. Somehow, by God’s grace, it seemed they were impressed with me and after making the necessary enquiries, they asked me if I would like to work as an assistant director with them. I agreed, and that was a small step towards building my confidence,” recollects Parvej. But it was towards the end of his studies that he got the first taste of what he actually wanted to do. A director called Gul Khan arrived at the college campus and asked if anyone was interested in working as an assistant director for a TV serial. “No one wanted to work with an unknown person, and moreover, the unit was moving to Bhopal the very next day for the shoot. But I agreed and went with them. This was really the initiation into practical direction of TV serials, something which I had set my heart on. I assisted Gul Khan, the director, in the serial Shaheen and that was my first big break in the world of TV serials. ” he adds. There has been no looking back, ever since. “I’m really grateful to Mrs. Gul Khan who has been to a huge extent, responsible for my success today. She helped me out in the initial
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RAPID FIRE If you were marooned on an island, who would you like to be with? My fiancee. Your favourite music? I like listening to any kind of good music, but it has to be soothing, something that can relax me. Favourite food? I love to eat and I like Chinese cuisine. But, the best food in the world is the one that my mom cooks, specially roast chicken, and of course, I also like MughlaiIndian cuisine. ONE LOVE, ONE NORTHEAST
CARRERGRAPH days, and is like my mentor. I treat her like an elder sister. Both she and her husband have helped me tremendously, they had faith in me, and I thank God that I had accepted that offer to go to Bhopal,” he tells me as he takes a walk down memory lane. Parvej’s first big break came when Suraj Rao asked him to direct Shaka Laka Boom Boom a couple of years back. “I enjoyed doing it. Even Shaheen, a story about a Muslim girl was also interesting. Ever since then, I’ve been directing youth-centric serials like Sanjeevani, Dil Mil Gaye, Mile Jab Hum Tum, and now Geet,” he adds. Celluloid heroes are often good-looking people, and since he is one, did he ever think of acting? “No, never! I’m not at all comfortable in front of the camera,” he admits sheepishly. “I was never bitten by the acting bug, and am happy behind the camera.” But surely he dreams of making the eventual transition to Bollywood? “Definitely! I’m just finishing up my work that I had committed earlier, and most probably, within a year or so, I hope to direct my own film. I’d written the script earlier, but under a lot of changed circumstances, a new script will have to be prepared,” reveals the young director. And what would be his kind of film? “Oh! I just love romantic stories,” he answers with a boyish charm. “Almost all my serials revolve round the young crowd, and specially in Dil Mil Gaye, we had this young team and we really gelled well together. While shooting, I often remembered my own days when I was in college when we kept doing the kind of things that these guys did. So it was so much fun translating those ideas into action,” he reminisces. So how does he relax, considering that Geet is taking up so much of his time, shooting for 20 hours or more at a stretch? “Yeah, I hardly get time when I’m working in some serials, but on non-working days, I prefer to go to a nearby multiplex and
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Shaheen Shaka Laka Boom Boom Lucky Hello Dollie Sanjeevani Shhh! Phir Koi Hai Dil Mil Gaye Mile Jab Hum Tum Love Ne Mila Di Jodi Geet
AUGUST 2010 │the eclectic
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watch movies with my fiancée. Sometimes, my sister joins us, and at times, my friends. I love watching love stories and sometimes, we end up watching three or four films at a stretch! The traffic snarls in Mumbai dissuade us from going anywhere on a day off, so I either stay at home or head to the nearest theatre.” No party hopping? “No, I’m not the partying kind, you see.” How would he describe Nissar Parvej? “Nissar Parvej is a very simple guy who loves simplicity, prefers a simple style of living, has patience and is calm,” he reveals. “You see, when you’re the captain of the ship, your personality is reflected in the team. So, if I’m calm, the team responds in a very enthusiastic and energetic way, each one giving their best. Yes, we do have days when things go wrong, when a shot isn’t perfect, and the creative director might say, “Yaar, yeh shot thik nahi tha”. But, that’s healthy criticism. At the end of the day, when we pack up, we leave all our verbal fights on the sets, we don’t carry them home and mull over them. So, I realise that my calmness or my behavior, even in the face of problems, has an effect on the team as a whole,” he elaborates. Life is what you choose to make of it. Parvej believes that dreams do come true. “By God’s grace and by the blessings of my parents, I’ve been able to do what I’ve always dreamt about. You can make your dreams come true if you really work hard and have the patience to face the obstacles in life.” He continues, “I’ve been very fortunate to have the support of my family who really encouraged me to go ahead and live my dream. They knew that without a godfather in the industry, it would be difficult, but they never dissuaded me from coming to Mumbai; and I’m really grateful for that.” And what does he have to say about the youth of Assam? “There is a lot of talent in Assam and the
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Northeast, you know. But I think people are more comfortable to stay at home and are a little laidback. I want to say that, come out, there’s a lot of opportunity for your talent to find expression. It could be any profession, and if you have the passion, you’ll surely make a mark. Nurture your talent and make Assam proud. They’re still living in the shell, and need to express themselves better,” says the young director. So, what was it about Parvej that saw him realize his dreams? “I had this madness, this passion for direction and I succeeded. I eat, live and breathe direction. You’ve got to have that madness to survive and live your
dreams. I cannot imagine life without the passion needed to do what I love to do.” In the world of glitz and glamour, it is easy to lose one’s feet, especially if one attains even the slightest degree of fame. So it is indeed refreshing to find someone, especially a young man in big, bad Mumbai, with his head planted firmly on his shoulders. Nissar Parvej exemplifies the fact that you need not lose your essence while making a mark in the entertainment industry. Yet another feather in the cap of the Northeast. As he prepares for his Bollywood debut, many would surely wish him the best, and who knows, maybe, even follow what he has so well illustrated: a simple guy with the simple dream of making it big. Dream on, Parvej!
“When you’re the captain of the ship, your personality is reflected in the team. So, if I’m calm, the team responds in a very enthusiastic and energetic way, each one giving their best.”
ONE LOVE, ONE NORTHEAST
IIT
Magazine Partner
Concern for the environment drove Rajib Goswami to opt for the ‘green alternative’. Read on to know more.
Bamboo rules
W
ould you have imagined that someone from northeast India, and specifically from Assam, could weave magic through his bamboo products so exquisitely as to captivate even the ingenious Chinese? That’s right. For entrepreneur Rajib Goswami, the Chinese requirement for a considerably large quantity of bamboo-made blinds is reason enough to feel quite upbeat about it. Indeed, his factory-cum-office Rhino Bamboo Industry, located on a sprawling complex at Amingaon, on the outskirts of Guwahati, bears testimony to the creativity of Goswami, in the blend of modern and mechanized skills at work that produce a variety of items. “The company is into manufacturing different bamboo and cane products that range from floor mats, place mats, bamboo blinds, carpets, sticks/ strips of different sizes and diameters. All the products that we manufacture are fungus and termite proof,” says Goswami. Within a short span of just about 5 years, the company has succeeded in making a mark in the national as well as international market. He has
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ONE LOVE, ONE NORTHEAST
ECLECTIC MIX exhibited the products in China and a few other places as well. What defines his products from others is the neat detailing, the processes that go into making them, and the complete attention to the overall quality of the finished products. So why did he opt for bamboo? “Well, you see, bamboo grows here abundantly. It doesn’t destroy the environment in the sense that the plant does not take much time to grow, unlike trees which are chopped down to make timber or wood-based products and take many years for another to grow in its place. Consequently, forests disappear, leading to a host of other changes, among which climatic imbalance is the most significant. We need to protect our forests, and the easiest
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way to do this is by harvesting bamboo,” explains Goswami. He further adds that if we can substitute wood with bamboo, we can save the forests in the long run. His concern for the environment is quite noticeable from the fact that of the 80 per cent waste generated from the treatment and cutting of bamboo in various stages, he converts it to beautiful handbags, mobile pouches, and other small but useful items. In doing so, he generates employment as well, especially to the local populace. As he explains, “If we do not utilise the waste generated, then the bamboo industry cannot survive, for it would mean exhausting the existing supplies of bamboo plantation, without utilizing the product to its full potential.” So how did the idea of launching into a bamboo-based industry take shape? “Initially, the idea was to make boards. In 2004-05, I started working by importing the machines from China. I arranged for trained personnel from China to come and show my workers how to operate the machines. By 2006, I started trading things on a trial basis, and some time later began operating on a commercial basis. I have also done
extensive research and development work regarding bamboo-based industries and I was quite sure that this was what I wanted to do,” reveals the soft-spoken Goswami. He had travelled to Thailand as part of a project to conduct research, and had also visited China as part of a delegation to understand the bamboo industry there. The wonder grass, which is also cultivated in China as part of an initiative to provide an alternative to wood-based industries, is done in a very planned and an extremely organized manner. Technically, their products are of very high quality. Yet, it was the fine quality and the aesthetic appeal of bamboo blinds produced by his company that caught the attention of the Chinese, prompting them to place a huge order. His desire and dedication to work with cane and bamboo has fetched him recognition from the ICC, namely the North East Excellence Award, 2009 and the MSME 2008. And the recent demand from the Chinese has put him one notch higher among the entrepreneurs in the state. Considering the fact that the Northeast has an amazing range of bamboo-based industries already flourishing, how are his products different from the others available in the market? “Our products carry a guarantee. The quality of our threads is extremely good, and we put a lot of emphasis on the boiling process. We are also offering after-sales service and we replace the goods or rectify them as far as possible,” he explains. Indeed, a tour of the factory reveals the dedication of the staff in ensuring that all the details in the production processes are looked into; the huge rolls of colourful blinds neatly stacked in a corner, the array of floor and place mats are quite impressive, both in terms of design and finish. As part of the company’s expansion plans regarding the products, Goswami reveals that he is also making bamboo concrete boards, which are lightweight, easy AUGUST 2010 │the eclectic
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to install and maintain for repeated use. Being the most environmentfriendly construction material available, its versatility and demand is slowly picking up globally. Besides, the bamboo concrete boards are overlaid with resin coated Kraft paper, which is very hard, scratch and moisture resistant. Consumers in the developed markets such as North America, Europe, Australia and Japan have become increasingly environment conscious and are opting for alternatives. This has become a strong marketing aspect for bamboo, specially because the bamboo concrete boards are very competitively priced with other high quality shuttering materials as wood, plywood, etc. Having been in this competitive industry for the past few years, what does he feel are the problems impeding the growth? “The bamboo industry in India is at its infantile stage. Every entrepreneur comes across various problems right from the initial stages of project planning till making it a viable business entity. There are problems with respect to selection and procurement of machines, sourcing of right types of bamboo, procurement of consumables, availability of skilled manpower and marketing of finished products.” Moreover, he has to compete with the Chinese manufacturers who are “decades ahead of us,” as he explains.
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In a bid to draw the government’s attention to the problems faced by the entrepreneurs, he, on behalf of the Federation of Bamboo Industries of Assam, recently submitted a memorandum to the Additional Secretary to the Government of India and In-charge of the National Bamboo Mission, New Delhi. Among the points highlighted was the import of bamboo products from China and other countries. These are being imported under the category of handicraft items, so that they will fall under low custom duty tariff. Besides, these are being billed at a very low rate, again to save on customs duty. Considering various other problems faced by Indian bamboo entrepreneurs, these cheap imports make their life more miserable. They have appealed to the governemnt for a Safeguard Duty to be levied on import of all bamboo products at least for the next 15 years. This period, Goswami feels, should be enough for Indian entrepreneurs to bring themselves at par with their counterpart in China. “The government should nurture the bamboo industry since it is something that grows abundantly and is such a viable alternative to wood-based industries that have already depleted forest cover” he opines. As he escorts us through his factory, we notice that all his employees are locals. “Yes, that’s another important factor, as bamboo
plays an important role in the lives of the common people here. Most of the household items are made of bamboo, and the rural populace are familiar with the way the items are produced. Women, in particular, can make the various items at their homes, ranging from the chopsticks (which again, are created from the waste generated), to mobile pouches, etc. We are committed to employing the local people as it helps generate income for these households. It also helps contain migration to the cities and towns, which are already bearing the brunt of overpopulation,” explains Goswami. Significantly, an impressive number of women are also employed at the factory, both at the weaving department as well as the section that makes seat covers for cars and handbags for ladies. At a time when most people look towards making easy money, Rajib Goswami’s efforts towards creating a sustainable industry through encouraging the use of eco-friendly and natural products are truly laudable. More so, because it uses the wonder grass that nature has so abundantly bestowed in Assam and the Northeast. Indeed, it is one small step towards creating a better environment for the people of the Northeast, and one big step for reducing the drastic effect of climatic change. In conversation with Nazneen Hussain Photos: Dhan ONE LOVE, ONE NORTHEAST
Shrink your head
I am in love with a guy whom I met through common friends. We hit it off instantly and found that we reciprocated each others feelings. Everything was fine between us till I recently discovered that he’s a gay. I am at my wit’s end now, please advise, what should I do? Sagnika Bhuyan, Guwahati Avilasha: Confronting him in the wrong way will only make you the recipient of the negative side of his already pent up emotions. So, you need to ask yourself first if you’re ok with him being gay as long as he’s honest with you. Of course, this doesn’t lessen the pain, but it will allow you both to move on with your lives. Understanding him and communicating in a positive manner doesn’t negate any wrongdoing or hurt feelings, but it does ensure that you can have a rational discussion as adults. TEQUACK : Give yourself a crew cut, stick on a moustache, dress up in his clothes and tell him your name is now Sagnik - maybe he’ll fall for you all over again!
years of a successful marriage,
I am a 45 year old man. After 20
I was told by my wife that our son is not mine but my friend’s with whom she had an affair. I have tried to come to terms with the situation, but my son does not acknowledge me as his father anymore and wants to sever all relations with me. I feel suicidal. What should I do? Amitabh Duara, Barpeta Avilasha: The pressure to develop love ‘instantly’ is a common stressor in such cases. Unrealistic expectations to fulfill the loss of the former ‘intact’ family
haunts and can damage chances for the new relationships to succeed. But love takes time to develop. Therefore your attachment must grow naturally and without undue pressure if you are to experience the affection for your step son that you desire. The good news is that you are honest with yourself and your desire to ‘love’ this child. TE QUACK : Put on your leathers, pick him up in a zippy mo-bike and keep saying “Yo man, that rocks!’ after every sentence. He’ll soon find you cool!
become so addicted to television that he’s not able to concentrate on My 6-year-old son has of late
his studies and is faring poorly in his class. When I try reasoning with the other members of the family, they tell me that I am pressurizing him too much. How do I make them understand the situation? Monalisa Kakoty, Tezpur Avilasha: Children and television go hand in hand. When the television is on, children will watch it, putting aside their toys and everything else. Therefore to stop him from watching TV all day, make him read, encourage him to play outside, gather the children together for a family game, or let him build creative projects without too many restrictions. Children also mimic others in the family. If the others are sitting on the couch all day, watching TV, so will their children. Therefore demonstrate to him that watching TV isn’t required in order to have a good time. TE QUACK : Pretend to have a mild heart attack whilst sitting on the couch and tell him it happened because you watched too much TV! That should stop him!
Avilasha Barooah, is a neuropsychologist, a learning disability specialist and an NLP Coach and consultant. She offers consultancy in Guwahati and is currently working in GNRC Hospitals Limited
leaving my son and me behind. My wife expired 10 years back
I brought him up almost single handedly and now he’s established and remains busy with his own life, but I have become very lonely. I was thinking of remarrying but I fear that my son might take it otherwise. Please advice. Surajit Das, Guwahati Avilasha: To be honest, most adults don’t have the maturity or the foresight to even consider what you are asking. Therefore I cannot give you specific advice; I can only speak in generalities. You’ll have to make the tough choice. But I certainly believe we should not stay single given the level of stress and adjustment necessary to live life alone. And more so, your son is now at an age where matters won’t get complicated if he truly understands your predicament. And I believe growing a healthy family FIND life for yourself is possible IN O ME RKU even now. But don’t be TOO T naïve. I would never tell someone not to marry. But if you do, make sure you go into it with both eyes open. TE QUACK: Tell your son that the doctor has prescribed a wife as a cure for loneliness: enter your new lady! Simple, eh?
For heartaches, heartburns, multiple personality disorders, insomnia, anorexia, seeing dead people, sleepwalking and all other weird problems that you might have, Avilasha Barooah will try to suggest the best solutions possible. For alternate solutions you can always try TE Quack’s pointers. DISCLAIMER: Follow the suggestions of the TE Quack entirely at your own peril. www.eclecticmag.com
AUGUST 2010 │the eclectic
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STANDPOINT
Believing that our actions are the cause of our country’s social evils, Arunima Sharma laments that we do not appreciate it enough
WE CAN DO BETTER!
i
ndia is wonderful country. I truly do love it. Where else do you find so many different kinds of food, language and culture? At one time in history, people fought to own and rule India. Even now, tourists come to this place and always experience something they never have. But why don’t we try and love it a little more? In the olden days, our country was far more beautiful and clean. Today people don’t think twice before throwing garbage on the road. They seem to think that if they throw dust out of their balcony, they have ‘cleaned’ the environment. Earlier people used to carry a thuk daan for paan spittings. Though we continue the culture of having paan, we have happily let go of the thuk daan and instead made the roads our thuk daan! At one time, we were quite content using cloth bags and newspaper wraps but then we got plastic and forgot everything else. While the rest of the world is busy trying to put a stop to its use now, we continue to do so.
With the sad and thriving business of begging, the uneducated may think “What is the point of education when we can earn more by begging?”
We have so many issues such as population, pollution and poverty but corruption is probably the biggest problem of them all. There seems to be no other way of getting any work done around here. It has kind of become part of our culture. The least we can do is not to encourage it, which is easier said than done, because we face this problem everywhere - from getting a passport to getting the telephone connection. Illiteracy is another evil of our society. A major portion of our population is uneducated. Many colleges and universities have social service programmes, where students go to underprivileged areas and try to educate them. But, with the sad and thriving business of begging, the uneducated may think “What is the point of education when we can earn more by begging?” So it is up to the educated few not to fall victim to their emotional game. Awareness on the importance of education therefore has many positive effects: an educated mother will take better care of her child and also educate him/her for a better future; an educated farmer will not be cheated of his land or money. Though the government needs to create awareness programmes, we can start with the maid who comes to work in our house and make her understand how important it is to educate her children. One of the things our country seriously needs is family planning and this is completely up to the citizens. It has been spoken about and
advertised for a long time. It is now the responsibility of every individual to really understand that the country is already staining under the burden of our huge population. If this is not taken care of, feeding and educating the children will be extremely difficult even for those who are economically sound, since the country might not have enough resources and the people living under the poverty line will keep increasing. Most of us dream of settling abroad and escaping the problems of this country. The countries that we dream about settling in are clean and beautiful because they have citizens who are extremely responsible and perhaps have better civic sense; so many of us do not take responsibility for our problems. We are always on a government bashing trip but is the government alone responsible for our problems? While I agree that the governing body has to deliver from its end, for example, in making better use of tax payer’s money, building more public urinals, placing more dust bins on the road, but as individuals, we should start making changes too. Whenever we speak about our country, we start with the rich heritage and history. While we should always be proud of our past, it is time to take care of our present so that our future is better and brighter. If every one of us becomes responsible for our own actions, we definitely can look forward to a far better country than it already is. The author is a television actor
If there’s anything happening around you that inspires you to speak up and let the world know, write to us at Eclectic House, 34 P. B. Road, Rehabari, Guwahati - 8 or email to editorial@eclectic.co.in ONE LOVE, ONE NORTHEAST
www.eclecticmag.com
AUGUST 2010 │the eclectic
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Twist
and
shout
When it comes to celebration, no drink in the world can rival Champagne. Try these fruity twists with that bubbly fizz along with the tidbits and enjoy! – Golden Reejsinghani
APPLE AMBROSIA
PEACHY FIZZ
Ingredients
Ingredients
2 parts chilled
3 tablespoons brandy 3 tablespoons apple juice 1 dash Curacao 2 tablespoons lemon juice 1 bottle of champagne ice cubes.
Method Shake together brandy, juices and Curacao. Pour over ice cubes in champagne glasses. Top with iced champagne.
champagne 1 part juice of peaches.
Method Fill a champagne glass one-third full with peach juice and top it with champagne.
IMPERIAL TANG Ingredients 1 part each of chilled Champagne, lemon, orange and
pineapple juices.
Method Shake together all the juices, pour over ice and fill with champagne.
ORANGE GLORY Ingredients 2 parts champagne. 1 part soda water Juice of half an orange
Method Pour champagne and orange juice in champagne glasses over ice. Add soda water and stir gently.
FRUIT PUNCH Ingredients
2 tablespoons sugar 3 bottles champagne 1 teaspoon Angostura bitters. 3 thinly sliced fresh oranges. 3 thinly sliced fresh lemons. A few fresh strawberries or raspberries. 1 bottle of soda ice cubes
Method Put sugar, bitters, oranges and lemons in punch bowl and stir the mixture thoroughly. Add the soda and a several cubes of ice and stir again. Before serving, pour in .the chilled champagne and float in some strawberries or raspberries.
PALATE
Almond Fish Fingers INGREDIENTS
METHOD
450 gms skinned and boneless ari fish fillet, cut in small strips 2 eggs 1 tbsp finely chopped fresh coriander 3 tbsp finely chopped almonds 2 tbsp breadcrumbs 2 tbsp finely grated parmesan cheese 1 tsp each of salt and freshly ground black pepper 1 tbsp butter 8 wedges of lemon for garnishing
Whisk the eggs lightly in a bowl with the coriander and, in another bowl, mix all the dry ingredients together. Dip the fish fingers in the beaten egg and then in the nut and breadcrumb mixture. Melt the butter in a pan and put in the fish fingers and fry till golden brown. Serve with a slice of lemon.
Honey Mustard Chicken INGREDIENTS 500 gms chicken breast (cut into 1 inch pieces) 2 tbsp honey 2 tbsp mustard 3 tbsp butter, melted 1 tsp salt 3 tbsp garlic bread crumbs
METHOD Mix together the honey, mustard, butter and salt and add the melted butter. Add chicken pieces to the mustard mixture, stirring to coat. Roll the chicken pieces in the garlic bread crumbs until fully coated. Bake in a medium hot pre-heated oven for 20 to 25 minutes until brown. Serve with a dip made of additional honey mustard mixed with fresh cream.
Cheese crackers INGREDIENTS 100 gm cream cheese 125 gm flour ¼ tbsp paprika 1 tbsp milk ½ tbsp salt
METHOD www.eclecticmag.com
Mix the flour and salt with the cream cheese to a smooth dough. Add milk if necessary to make the dough smoother. Roll out the dough till ¼ inch thick. Cut them into a small square pieces. Put them on a greased baking tin and prick all over with a fork. Bake in a pre-heated oven for about 7-8 minutes until lightly brown. Sprinkle with paprika and serve. AUGUST 2010 │the eclectic
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ECLECTIC MIX
Si zzle
Dri zzle Guys, don’t let the wet weather dampen romance! Here’s a little help from Xuruj on great ideas to keep the fire burning in the monsoon shower! 38
the eclectic │ AUGUST 2010
magine this: you set out on a date and then suddenly the skies open up at the opportune moment, leaving you and your spirits drenched. Well, fear not, from now on you need not end up cursing the rain gods, as rainy days can actually be conducive to romance; it depends on how you look at it! Here are some ways to keep that love dial on High, when it rains in the city.
ONE LOVE, ONE NORTHEAST
1. Brahmaputra stroll
into the chutney before popping into the other’s mouth!
Brave the rains and go for a walk along the waterfront under a single umbrella. Enjoy the canopied avenues near the Uzanbazaar stretch. If you don’t mind getting drenched, then lose the umbrella and play silly games in the rain like children.
9. Karaoke Oldies Sing your hearts out along to old Hindi songs to do with rain – complete with the costumes and dance moves. Dramatically lip sync the classic lines making it seem that you are professing your feelings to your loved one- in the true filmy way!
10. Tin Roof magic 2. Flashlight fun
5. Peak Magic
Power cuts are often synonymous with heavy rains in our cities. A gloomy power cut can be turned into something fun. Play flashlight tag with each other where you have to search for each other in the dark.
If you have time and a vehicle with a full tank, take a drive up to Shillong Peak in the monsoon season. You’ll be embraced by a mystical charm as you enjoy a hot makai (corn on the cob) with the cloudy mists drifting by you.
3. Love notes
6. Go shopping…for the other!
If you are stuck indoors for long, make a treasure hunt for each other. Leave clues around the house along with notes for each other that profess your love. Be sincere and creative in your notes, showing your appreciation and gratitude to have the other person in your life.
Ever listened to a tin roof in the rain? Well, now you can use it as a back drop to a ‘confessions session’ where both of you, in turn, have to confess something about yourself that they other doesn’t know. It really is a great way to getting to know each other better!
Head for refuge to the nearest shopping mall – but with a difference! Equally divide the money you would have spent on the date between yourselves, then split ways for half and hour. Meet up again and whoever has bought the sweetest gift for the other, wins!
4. Mmmm….momos! When it suddenly starts pouring when you are walking on the streets, just head to the nearest roadside momo joint that abounds the city (instead of a fancy restaurant) and share a steamy plate of momos and hot soup.
7. Clowny snaps Keep your digital camera handy when it rains and have your own comic photo shoot! Say, for instance, you are stuck in a café when it downpours, use the paper napkins to make funny hats etc. Humour is always the greatest asset to romance!
8. Pakoras in the Park What can be nicer than whiling away time on a park bench whilst munching away to glory on hot pakoras wrapped in newspaper? Remember to dip them www.eclecticmag.com
AUGUST 2010 │the eclectic
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LIFESTYLE
B A T Hb a s i c s With a meticulous blend of accessories and fittings, one can boast of owning a spectacular bathroom. 40
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ONE LOVE, ONE NORTHEAST
Walls in a deeper shade contrast with a lighter shade basin
small bathroom can be disappointing until you get out the magic wand and cleverly play with the designs, instantly making the small bathroom appear large. The tricks of the trade such as alteration of the lighting technique, setting up of the bathtub and aligning it with the right choice of colours, can work wonders. You simply need a little know-how in how to transform your small bathroom into something as spacious and luxurious as its larger counterparts. www.eclecticmag.com
Wall hung washbasins
EN - LIGHTENED Colour can make or mar the look of your bathroom so opt accordingly. Known for its ability to open up space, the colour white can be teamed up with deeper shades. Painting an opposite wall in a deep shade will add depth to your small bathroom. While choosing the flooring for your bathroom, go for light colors. In case you are stuck with a dark coloured floor, consider placing a large, lightcolored rug over it. Smart usage of lights can add that extra oomph factor to your
bathroom. Adding extra lighting, at specific key points like a particular corner, can help open up the space in your bathroom, without consuming any additional space. Recessed can lighting, installed into the ceiling, can provide focussed light onto any work space. And if you don’t mind splurging, install a stylish skylight.
UP – LIFTED To hide away the clutter and watch the room grow, try wall hung washbasins, WCs and bidets; they not only create the impression of a bigger AUGUST 2010 │the eclectic
41
Huge mirrors in a wall make the bathroom look spacious
floor area but make cleaning easier as well. Semi-pedestals beneath washbasins conceal pipework whilst doubling the benefit of being quite inexpensive and yet opening up space. As for storage, you can consider using baskets or even wall-mounted cabinets.
DE - FINE To add appeal to your small bathroom, make good use of mirrors. Apart from making the room look interesting, they also create the illusion of space. While using accessories for your bathroom, try to limit their number to a minimum. For instance, one large piece of art would look much better than several small ones. If you have an enclosed shower, try to use plain glass for the door, instead of a
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frosted one, or even better, remove the door completely and install a trendy shower curtain, which can be pulled back thus creating more space. So, while being uplifting and playful, one has to consider multiple factors before zeroing in on the final options. When it comes to choosing bathroom fixtures, it is natural to feel confused, unless you are a professional interior decorator. Comfort and style have got to be the keywords, but other considerations such as budget and convenience also decide on the choice when choosing fixtures for the bathroom. All said and done, now be ready to bear the curses of your jealous neighbours! Words: Kaifia Ancer Laskar ONE LOVE, ONE NORTHEAST
SPOTLIGHT
Theatrical Coup Sukracharjya Rabha is on a mission to put society on the right track through the medium of theatre
M
aking a living out of theatre isn’t exactly the easiest of options, but if you love it so much as to devote yourself to its development, then the rewards will come. Sukracharjya Rabha, an active theatre worker from Goalpara in Assam, has recently been selected for the prestigious Bismillah Khan Award in the category of Theatre Direction by the Sangeet Natak Akademi. A visibly happy Rabha tells us, “Yes, it feels nice that they selected me. You know, people tend to think of theatre as a waste of time and energy, but I have reasons to feel happy, especially because people from other countries are coming to my ashram to study theatre or conduct research. That is because, I feel, I’m more concerned with developing a kind of theatre where we try to ‘reinvent’ human behaviour, something that is intrinsically connected with our roots,” he explains. Beginning in 1992, he did a onehour play with his sons who essayed the roles of girls. The theme of the play revolved around the question as to why girls were not allowed to participate in theatre. In a way, that was a small step towards his
theatrical journey. Later, in 1993 he joined Rupjyoti Mini Theatre. “I was drawn to theatre from a very early age, and I wanted to experiment with a new type of theatre, where I could show the nuances of human behaviour, especially in the context of rural surroundings,” explains Rabha. “I wanted to show the essence of Assamese society and its culture,” he further says. In 2001, he was selected for a workshop organized by the National School of Drama (NSD) in Shrimanta Shankardeva Kalakshetra which, he says, proved to be quite a learning experience for him. Among his notable productions is Rupalim, which was originally composed by Jyoti Prasad Agarwala. Gradually, his work began to be appreciated both by the local populace and others. In 2004, he was again selected by NSD in the field of direction, and after that he got an opportunity to work under renowned director H
“Most of the time, we Indians are busy aping the West, but it is they who ultimately come to India to get a deeper knowledge of its people and culture.”
Kanhailal. He stayed in Manipur for two years, learning and honing his skills in the art of production. By 2006, he built an ashram in Goalpara, conducting regular practice on every aspect of theatre. Rooted as he was in the culture of the place and society, his plays soon began to be seen as a reflection of the various aspects of human behaviour and life. Today, his work commands respect from theatre and cultural organizations from countries like Netherlands, Brazil and others. Last year, Brazilian dancer/ choreographer came and stayed in his ashram to study his work, and was deeply impressed. “Most of the time, we Indians are busy aping the West, but it is they who ultimately come to India to get a deeper knowledge of its people and culture. We need to remember that we are culturally very rich. It is up to us how we preserve it and keep it flourishing,” says Rabha. With his aim of putting society on the right track through the medium of theatre, as opposed to working only for profit, it is no wonder that researchers are descending regularly on his ashram. His group, called the Badungduppa Kala Kendra formed in 1998 (named after the traditional musical instrument badungduppa) has also gained recognition. It was his significant contribution to the growth of the theatre movement in the State that prompted the Sangeet Natak Akademi to select him for the Bismillah Khan Award. In what could only be seen as a sign of positive development, Rabha mentions that “One person is studying M.Phil with the badungduppa as the subject, in Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU), New Delhi,” before he signs off with a smile.
Words: Nazneen Hussain
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In our current pace of life which is highly demanding and stressful, a regular session of Foot Reflexology provides the perfect antidote. Loni Agarwala tells us more. 44
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A
young nephew, who had just been commissioned into the Indian Air Force, looked sceptically at my sheaf of papers and books as I returned from a training lecture and asked me if I could really cure a certain ache in his back which had been troubling him of late and happened only when he sat in the cockpit and had to bend in certain positions. So, I made him sit down and worked specific areas of his foot. He left the next day and I didn’t hear from him for about six months. When we met again I asked him if it had worked. He looked at me trying to remember what I was referring to, and then suddenly smiled because he said he’d forgotten about it totally as the pain never occurred again! “Whatever it was, it worked!” he said empathically.
What is Foot Relexology? It is a natural healing therapy based on the relationship between the feet and the whole body. Reflexologists theorise that different parts of the ONE LOVE, ONE NORTHEAST
ECLECTIC MIX hands, feet and even ears correspond to specific anatomical features in the body in a logical pattern. Whenever there is any disorder in any part of the body, the relevant ‘reflex points’ in the feet get tender and painful when pressure is applied in those points. Through methodical pressure techniques, the corresponding part of the body gets relief, which ultimately leads to healing. It is difficult for a layman to believe that pressure applied on certain selected points on the feet will relieve a person of a headache, shoulder pain, sinusitis, cervical pain, lower abdominal pain, urinary and even enlarged prostate problems! The list can be endless.
How Reflexology works One theory is that it works by releasing restricted energy in the body, by improving blood supply and by promoting nerve stimulation to assist in healing. Another theory is that reflexology stimulates the sensory nerves in the extremities and increases the release of endorphins into the bloodstream thus providing pain relief . When the reflexes are stimulated by applying pressure, blockages along the meridian line (of the body) and the nervous system are removed. A blockage is felt as a sandy or gritty deposit present under the skin at the sole of the feet. Overactive or underactive glands or organs can be helped to return to their normally functioning level in this way. Another point to note is that once normal condition is achieved, it cannot be unbalanced by working the area too much. Overworking may cause minor reactions such as diarrhoea or a runny nose, but these are, in a way, removing the toxins from the body (like a form of natural cleansing). The sweating of palms is quite common during a session, which is why it is recommended that one drinks a lot of water in between sessions. Reflexology cannot harm a system, it simply brings it back to balance. www.eclecticmag.com
How are Foot Reflexology, Acupressure and Foot Massage different? Even though the basic principle is the same in that it works with the body’s vital energy through stimulation of certain ‘reflex’ points in the body, the reflexologist uses reflexes that are in an orderly arrangement resembling the shape of the human body on the feet and hands. In Acupressure, the therapist uses over 800 reflex points that are found along the thin energy lines called ‘meridians’ which run the length of the entire body. Foot Massage on the other hand is the systematic manipulation of soft tissues of the body by using specific
When the reflexes are stimulated by applying pressure, blockages along the meridian line (of the body) and the nervous system are removed.
techniques like tapping, kneading, stroking and friction. The massage therapist works ‘from the outside in’, manipulating specific muscle groups while the foot reflexologist works ‘from the inside out’ using micro movement techniques like thumb or finger walking, hook and back-up to stimulate the nervous system to release tension.
Reflexology in India The All India Association of Acupressure Reflexology (AIAAR) was established in 1994 and has been a pioneering institution in this field. Due to the efforts of its members, reflexology has now been included as a subject of research by the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS). Applications of reflexology are being carried out in various fields of medicine. Patients with slipped and prolapsed disc, cervical spondylitis, sciatica pain, migraine, hormonal imbalances, gyneacological problems like fibroids, diabetes, gout, kidney malfunction, palpitation, mental fatigue, have all been treated with sessions of Foot Reflexology with miraculous results! It also has a remarkable way of revealing the body’s condition and can aid diagnosis. Advances in research have led to reflexology being used in combination with conventional medicine. Dr Krishna Dalal , Associate Professor, Dept. of Biophysics (AIIMS) says, “Reflexology is being used for identifying the non-functional organs/ glands/ organ systems, accordingly preventing the diseases resulted due to the corresponding dysfunction, and also managing patients suffering from acute and chronic disorders. It works well even if the patients are not managed by conventional therapies.” The author is a qualified reflexologist based in Guwahati and a member of AIAAR
AUGUST 2010 │the eclectic
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Continuing from last month, Cchayan Pratik presents the next five commandments from Ayurveda, to help you keep your skin looking soft, smooth and supple all-year round. 6. YOU SHALL ACTIVELY FIGHT STRESS. A stressful lifestyle is a fertile environment for damaging free radicals to flourish and undermine your health and appearance. Moderate exercise, yoga postures, meditation techniques and breathing exercises can be helpful in combating the negative effects of stress. A daily massage can help too. Aromatherapy, music therapy, laughter and the company of friends with a youthful, positive attitude towards life can help balance your mind and emotions. Working towards daily bliss, a little at a time, can have big pay-offs in terms of lasting beauty that stems from deep within you.
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7. YOU SHALL GET ENOUGH QUALITY REST. Okay, so eight hours of beauty sleep for everyone is an outdated notion, but make sure you are getting the quantity of rejuvenating sleep your body requires to function at optimal levels. It is pretty much impossible to turn back the negative effects of ongoing sleep deprivation and when it starts showing up as lackluster skin and pouches under the eyes, it’s way too late. Your skin is like a mirror - it reflects everything that’s happening inside your body, and mind. When you’ve had enough rest, your high energy levels and general well-being will be reflected in glowing skin and clear bright eyes. ONE LOVE, ONE NORTHEAST
BEAUTY
8. YOU SHALL NEVER SKIP YOUR DAILY SKIN CARE REGIMEN. Being regular with a basic skin care programme is key to consistently beautiful skin. Performing the four basic steps of cleansing, toning, moisturizing and nourishing twice daily will keep your skin clean and healthy. Try to use gentle natural products that won’t strip the natural moisture balance from your skin, yet cleanse and tone it effectively. There are Ayurvedic skincare products such as gotu kola (known to be a collagen enhancer), Sensitive Plant (helps resist damaging effects of the sun and aids in nerve regeneration), Flame of Forest (also helps to prevent sun damage) as well as cooling rose petals and even spices like ground turmeric, considered excellent for the skin.
9. YOU SHALL EXPLORE THE WORLD OF DOIT-YOURSELF NATURAL SKIN CARE AIDS. Blend your own aroma massage oils, or make your own facial mix or a fragrant sachet of herbs and spices to scent your bath water with. Experiment with different floral waters which, when sprayed on the skin, tone it and the subtle aroma will linger pleasantly. Again, look for high-quality, natural products, and test to make sure your skin is not sensitive to a particular kind. A simple thick mixture of rosewater, whole milk and oatmeal is a natural facial cleanser. Watermelon puree on skin exposed to the sun can help cool and soothe. Cucumber slices or pads of cotton-wool dipped in rosewater placed over the eyes for ten minutes can act as instant stress-relievers.
10. YOU SHALL DEFINE YOUR OWN CONCEPT OF BEAUTY. Just as beauty is an indication of the beholder, your outer image is a reflection of your mindset. A positive attitude about yourself will help you project an aura of confidence and radiance that will enhance your appearance. After you’ve done all you can to develop healthy, regular diet and lifestyle habits, and pampered your skin with nourishing, natural skin care aids, sit back and feel good about the way you look all year long: healthy, radiant, beautiful!
www.eclecticmag.com
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I
ndia
is a land where faith transcends fear. Religion elicits some of the strongest emotions in man bringing millions of pilgrims to throng at the shrine of Vaishno Devi, for a mere glimpse of the three sacred natural rock Pindies inside the Holy Cave, the sanctum sanctorum of the shrine, located in the three peaked mountain Trikuta. A lot of legends and myths abound this mystical shrine nestled in the hills of Jammu. It is said that unless one receives the Divine Call or Bulawa from the Goddess, no one can go on this pilgrimage. When I got my ‘Bulawa’, I took my lens along and this is how the journey to The Mother’s abode unfolded:
By Aditya Kiran Kakati
with
a Lens
HOLIDAY
LEFT: From this viewing point, you can see how the snow clad peaks of Kashmir look on as pilgrims of every age undertake this pilgrimage. Trace your eyes from right to left to witness the descending order of age.
LEFT: The hills where the shrine rests as seen on the highway from Jammu, on the way to Katra. The pilgrimage commences from this town, with people scaling 13 kms winding up the Trikuta Hills. RIGHT: On the winding narrow path, the pilgrims walk up for hours, with faith as the driving force, to answer the call of The Mother. With every breath Her name is invoked- ‘Jai Mata Di’. The three hour pony ride is an alternative to walking but those who cannot walk or ride, can avail the luxury of a palanquin borne by four men.
www.eclecticmag.com
TOP: A view from the top, as the breath-taking scenery makes the pilgrimage not only a spiritual experience, but also satiates the five senses. RIGHT: Nestled in the bosom of the Trikuta, I approach the small settlement of Vaishno Devi on horseback. The setting sun bathes the town in an orange hue. It is here in this bustling settlement that thousands of pilgrims wait their turn for the Darshan into the caves which are located at the back of the hills. BELOW: The sun calls it a day and dozes off under the blanket of the hills. But for the weary pilgrims who have just arrived at the shrine, the day has only begun. Photos : Aditya Kiran Kakati
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ONE LOVE, ONE NORTHEAST
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SUNRISE and SUNSET Two faces of the sun - dawn and dusk - may seem like ordinary everyday affairs, but each signifies hope. When the sun rises up every morning, bringing with it a new day, it is symbolic of a new beginning. And when it sets in the evening, it symbolises a promise to rise up again the next day. Though the night may be long and dark, it is merely a temporary interlude because soon a new day is destined to come, igniting in us a hope to lead a better and more fruitful life. Towards a new horizon
Joy in abundance
Photos: Himangshu Lahkar
PHOTO FEATURE
A promise for a better tomorrow
Hope revived
Photos: Dipankar Bhagawati,
NEXT TOPIC: “ANIMAL MAGIC” – If you are a budding photographer, please send us a few high resolution pics on the above topic. Only the
best will be published. Email to : editorial@eclectic.co.in
RELATIONSHIP
TEEN DATING GAME C
alling all parents, remember your adolescent days? Were you a gawky geek or a suave sophisticate as you tried to understand the rudiments of falling in love, crushes, dating and breaking up? And how has ‘the chase’ changed a generation on? Do girls still play ‘hard to catch’ or are they more forthright? Are you more aware of who has stolen your teen’s heart? All these questions and more plagued our minds and so we asked 150 students between 16-18 years of age five simple questions and individually totted up each response. The survey comprised of school-going girls and boys (in the ratio of around 40:60 respectively). The responses were surprisingly candid and somewhat reflective of the new-Gen youth.
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QU 1 : SHOULD THE GUY PAY ON DATES? YES : 34.8% ¼
With an aim to bridge the gen gap, TE undertook an exclusive teen survey to see how dating has changed over the years.
NO : 50 %
NOT SURE :
15.2%
STUDENTS SPEAK
Girls Yes, the guy should pay on a first date- Loisy Nemnunhoi Thangeo Not necessarily, circumstances should be considered- Bidisha Kashyap It doesn’t matter who pays, but if he pays, it’s nice. – Ankita Jain. Yes, he should. Anyway, I don’t think boys will allow us to pay… Minakshi Sharma Yes, he should but from his own pocket money.- Aditi Sharma If there is mutual understanding, no girl will feel that the guy should pay. After all, they are in love - Astha
Guys No, because where is the guy going to get money? All have equal rights, both should pay – Abhiskek Patri. No, if the girl is rich, she should pay – Pritam Borah No, but the ‘ego factor’ may come in the way – Neil Boro Couples should share everything, including bill amount - A.B.S. Tarannum
Yes, because it looks awkward if the girl pays – Girish Patwari.
Expert Analysis : Interesting! Though modern day youths are cool with gender equality, there is a hint of chauvinism and uncertainty in totally going Dutch! Chivalry is not completely dead yet! ONE LOVE, ONE NORTHEAST
QU 2 : WOULD YOU KISS ON A FIRST DATE? YES : 14.3% NO : 69.5% NOT SURE : 16.2% ¼
STUDENTS SPEAK
Girls No, I consider kissing to be unhygienic - Dipanwita Yes, I would if the guy wins my heart – Loisy Nemnunhoi Thangeo Not on the first date, but yeah if you date the same guy a second time, then it’s not a big deal – Padma Guys No, because she might get scared and think that I like for her body, not her mind – Vijay Sharma
QU 3 : DO YOU DATE WITH THE INTENTION OF HAVING A LONG TERM RELATIONSHIP, POSSIBLY EVEN MARRIAGE?
Yes, especially if we knew each other for a long time before going out on a first date- Madhurya P. Sarma No, mental connections should be stronger first before physical closeness- A.B.S Tarannum
YES : 62.2% NO : 24.4% NOT SURE : 13.5%
Conditions apply – Pritam Borah
¼
Yes, but only on the forehead – Abhiskek Patri Expert analysis : In spite of modernity and western influence, it seems that traditionalist thinking still rules the roost. There is still a strong adherence to cultural values and the concept of instant physical intimacy is still not ingrained in the youth psyche.
STUDENTS SPEAK
Girls No, because it’s too early to be so serious – Avantika Nah ! How I wish it to be possible, but everything doesn’t always go how we want it to. – Kristi Yes, maybe but I take things too seriously and then I get cheated.- Poonam
Guys Yes, I like to believe that the girl I am dating will one day end up to be my partner – Parag Das No, I do it for the experience – Pritam Borah People shouldn’t take love for fun – A.B.S Tarannum Relationships must be life long – Sandeep Jaiswal Yes, if she also has the same feelings and she thinks the same. – Abhishek Patri Expert analysis : Quick flings and disposable relationships are not high on the agenda of the modern day Indian youth. The intention of long term commitment is still the ‘in’ thing. Whether it’s because of naivety or their heads being stuck in the clouds, the idea of a full test match is still the preferred game than a one-dayer. www.eclecticmag.com
AUGUST 2010 │the eclectic
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QU 4 : WOULD YOU GO ON A BLIND DATE WHICH WAS SET UP BY YOUR FRIENDS? YES :
28.4%
NO : 66.4%
MAYBE :
4.6%
¼
STUDENTS SPEAK
Girls No, there may be some pranks behind it! -Astha Singla Actually I might I will have a chance to meet a new person – he may even be ‘good.’Madhusmita Yes, only if my best friends (who know me well) have arranged it. - Kritika
Guys No it doesn’t suit our culture.- Amit Yes I would because I can trust my friend’s choice – Supratim Chaudhuri Maybe I would but I wouldn’t take it too seriously. - Kunal No, because it’s about my feelings and life and I don’t play blindly with my life. – Vijay Sharma No, because the ‘opposite sex’ may turn out to be a male, and I am not gay.- Girish Patwari
Expert Analysis: Western ideas seem to be good in theory but a big no no when it comes to doing it in practice. However, most will not go with a blind date simply because they feel they’ll be made a fool of. Then again, there are those who might just try it for the sake of it actually working out.
QU 5 : WOULD YOU TELL YOUR PARENTS THAT YOU ARE DATING SOMEONE? YES : 34.6%
NO :
58.8%
NOT SURE : 15.3%
¼
STUDENTS SPEAK
Girls Yes I would because we are never mature enough to take the most appropriate decision.- Sushmita Yes simply because she gets to know somehow. She teasingly tells me it’s the mother instincts inside her.- Loisy Nemnunhoi Thangeo
Our parents have faith in us, so we should not betray them – Monita Khemkha If my parents are frank enough, I would definitely like them to know everything about me.- Leena No, but there is always a feeling that in one way we are lying to them.- Pooja No, because I don’t think they will take it seriously or understand it. – Vishaka Nagori
Guys No way! They would pack my luggage and send me to my maternal grandmothers home! - Abhiskek Patri It depends on the kind of parents you have, some moms accept the love issue easily.- A.B.S Tarannum I would tell them because it could get worse if they knew from someone else. Moreover, it saves us from lying to our parents. – Supratim Chaudhuri Are you mad? No way, they would cut me down!- Rahul If at all parents are understanding, things can be disclosed. – Upamanyu Chetia Yes, if I’m serious with her. I will even try to get her to meet my parents.- Parag Das Yes, because don’t wanna hide anything from them.- Girish Patwari Expert analysis Parents, are you listening? With only 34.6% teens choosing to be open with you, the majority of you need to connect better with your adolescent so that they are free to talk to you on issues related to love and relationships. Unless you make an effort to bridge the divide, your children will not be comfortable in unveiling their innermost thoughts and will continue to date behind your back. So, if you want your kid to tell you everything about who they are dating, you’ll have to shed the old-gen approach and start to talk about the “L” word as if it’s nothing out of the ordinary. Remember, we all were teenagers once, so chill out! (TE Feature)
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G A Z I N E57 AUGUST 2010 │M theA eclectic
BEST BUY
ESOTERICA
Claimed to be one of the most haunted places in India, Bhangarh Palace in Alwar district of Rajasthan beholds the secrets of a bygone era deep in its bosom.
ajasthan, the land of kings and princes, has a plethora of stories attached to its colourful past. Situated on the outskirts of the Sariska Sactuary, Bhangarh is rather unique because, unlike the other cities, this city is devoid of any human habitation. Nobody lives there and the famous Bhangarh fort too, stands in ruins. According to the local people, spirits of the royal family still reside here and it is said that one can feel their presence after dusk. Even the government has declared this place ‘unsafe’ after dusk! The Archeological Survey of India (ASI) was supposed to set up an office in the
fort, but the government did not dare to do that and instead set it up a kilometer away. The ASI has in fact put a signboard saying “STAYING HERE AFTER SUNSET IS STRICTLY PROHIBITED” near the ruins as a warning for people not to stay there after dark. Old palaces in general are steeped in bygone mythological legends. Almost every palace will have some association to story somewhat related to love, compassion, friendship, jealousy, hatred and betrayal. Bhangarh too is no exception. The local people have many different stories to regale about Bhangarh Palace which still resounds in unexplained
paranormal activities inside the fort, like the sound of music and dancing, the appearance of weird coloured spots in the photographs of the different chambers of the palace. Most say that simply walking through the hall and the long dark corridors makes people feel uneasy. Long lost legends abound the palace and perhaps the most common is that of the beautiful princess Ratnavati. It is said that her beauty was matchless in the whole of Rajasthan. The story goes that there was a tantrik (a magician who dabbles in black magic) named Singhia who was desperately in love with the princess and, in order to have her as his wife, Singhia tricked the princess’s maid by giving her a scented oil. The tantrik had cast the oil with a spell and his plan was to hypnotise the princess into becoming his forever. But somehow, the clever princess got suspicious and she poured the oil over a stone and, as soon as the oil touched the stone, it started rolling towards the Singhia and crushed him. It is said that whilst he was dying, Singhia cursed the palace saying that one day there would be an incident where everybody in the palace would die and their souls would stay in the palace itself for centuries without rebirth. Indeed, the very next year, there was a battle between Bhangarh and Ajabgarh and everyone, including the princess, died; it is said that the spirits of the royal family still haunt the palace. Though no one claims to have seen anything, there is a definite eerie ‘feel’ of somebody’s presence within the entire fort, as if somebody is watching your every move. The story of
Bhangarh has evoked a lot of curiosity amongst people and a lot of tourists flock here every month to find out its secret; it has even been portrayed on the celluloid. Apart from the story of princess Ratnavati, there is another story of a local saint, Guru Balunath. Balunath was believed to have magical powers and used to live on that very land before the palace was built. When
There was a battle between Bhangarh and Ajabgarh and everyone, including the princess, died; it is said that the spirits of the royal family still haunt the palace. www.eclecticmag.com
the king, Madho Singh, decided to built the fort there, Balunath agreed on condition that the fort’s shadow should not touch his forbidden retreat. But somehow, the king could not keep his promise and the fort was built much higher than it should have been, thus overshadowing his abode. This angered Balunath and the whole city turned into ruins. There are a lot of other such stories which might hold some facts or might just be fragments of imagination. One thing is for sure however, that despite the government warnings and historical ruins, the aura of the once-beautiful kingdom of Bhangarh will continue to draw fascination forever. Words- Susmita Rakshit AUGUST 2010 │the eclectic
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tarot scope August 2010
Mayuri Sharrma is a Mumbai-based professional Tarot Card Reader, Columnist and Freelance Writer.
ARIES: March 21 - April 20: Work: Occasionally you need to just wander
off on your own and deal with issues, or think things through, and this thoughtful energy helps you make some serious headway into a difficult problem. Love: Sometimes you look at your partner and marvel; this is miles away from what you said you wanted in a relationship. But face it, this situation suits you - the both of you, as a matter of fact - perfectly. Health/Style: Dress to impress! Have an important meeting? Wear your snappiest outfit and style your hair. Ready to make the move on a certain crush? Bust out a Saturday-night outfit a little early. Pull out all the stops now!
TAURUS: April 21 - May 21: Work: You aren’t really all that sure what’s
going on, but you know well enough how to just shrug your shoulders, move on, tend your own business and focus on your personal goals for now. Love: You can survive the dating jungle out there by remembering to take nothing personally. Sometimes it really isn’t you! Hang on, as things are going to get a lot more interesting for you in a little while. Health/Style: Itching to explore? Then head to a part of town you don’t know too well -- maybe you’ll find the best local shoe stores ever! Or check out a different branch of your gym or discover a fresh set of classes to try.
GEMINI: May 22 - June 21: Work: Things may seem smooth on the surface,
but the undercurrents tell a different tale. Use your conversational skills to help to begin a deeper dialogue between your colleagues and you. Love: Luck might not have everything to do with finding romance, but it sure doesn’t hurt! Fortunately, your energy brings some lucky elements right where you need them. Put yourself where your advantages are on full display. Health/Style: Reconsider your style priorities. Are you willing to give up weekly manicures so you can afford Pilates instead? Or maybe you’re ready to ditch some night-out outfits to make room for a stylish suit or two? Think it over.
LIBRA: September 22 - October 22: Work: Your big brain is the stuff of legends, and you can feel that positive mental energy flowing. Make the most of it to get your co-workers to see that your solution is the way to go. Love: You are much more interested in those who are radically different right now, especially once you get past the superficial differences. Throw away those outdated ideas and take a chance. Health/Style: Engage in a little style meditation -- your energy is perfect for thinking and planning. So flip through magazines, prowl the Internet and research your town’s new boutiques! SCORPIO: October 23 - November 21: Work: Blurting out the first thing
that comes to mind might seem impetuous and hot, but when you change your mind a moment later, you may have some explaining to do. Think a little more. Love: Some well-meaning relationship advice may be coming your way, perhaps from someone in your family. If you feel like they just don’t get it, consider thanking them for their thoughts, rather than debating about it. Health/Style: For now, don’t do anything ... just think, think, think about whatever question is on your mind. Should you change your hair? Are you dressing to impress? Is your exercise routine working for you? Think things over.
SAGITTARIUS: November 22-December 20: Work: You may be having the hardest time figuring co-workers out --it’s like they are willfully misleading you! Sometimes that can be a fun game, but your mindset is much more practical. Tolerance is the name of the game. Love: As you get older and wiser, you have come to realize that love is more satisfying when it’s at least somewhat stable. Drama and action may be fun, but they’re not the most sustainable or healthiest ways to live. Health/Style: Let your imagination run wild. Try your signature wrap dress over a pair of skinny jeans or wear a boldly printed scarf as a chic head wrap. The sky’s the limit. CAPRICORN: December 21 - January 19: Work: You’re not exactly
CANCER: June 22 - July 22: Work: You and your coworkers are in need of
some greater clarity and communication may break down into implications and rumours if you don’t do something quickly. Love: You may need to deal with a romantic problem -- perhaps your mate is pushing you in a direction you don’t like? You ought to be able to handle it with direct communication even though it doesn’t begin easily. Health/Style: If you have a tough decision to make, now’s the time to face it. Weigh the pros and cons of long versus short hair. Consider whether yoga or kick-boxing better suits your fitness goals. You’ll know what to do.
frustrated or despondent, but you do want to see some changes happen. Now is the time to think big and try to plot out the course of the next phase of your life. Love: You may want to rethink what you’re looking for in a mate. Why not flip your current thinking around? Reach for the affirmative rather than go the negative route and you should find something just right. Health/Style: Take one positive step toward a healthier life -- it’s easier than you think! That could mean skipping a regular snack, taking the stairs or even joining a gym, and your efforts should start to pay off soon.
LEO: July 23 - August 22: Work: It’s a very good time to open yourself up to oddball points of view -- you never know when you might see the answers that may have been eluding you! Seek out someone who sees problems differently. Love: You may feel as if your love life is going nowhere, but that’s not true. You’ve already figured out what you don’t want, and you’re just starting to figure out what it is that you do want. You’re getting closer! Health/Style: The wardrobe of your dreams is already in your closet; you just have to coax it out. Try combinations you’ve never considered. Mend clothes that have been out of commission and clean up those neglected shoes. Now take a look!
AQUARIUS: January 20 - February 18: Work: It’s one of those times which can generate more plans than you can follow through with, but there’s nothing wrong with that. Try to focus your energy on original pursuits, even if you don’t have any ideas just yet. Love: You’ve never been able to play the strong, silent type -- and why would you? With your wit and charm, you just can’t stay quiet. Still, a little strategic silence should make the passion smolder. Health/Style: You don’t have to travel the world to add exotic touches to your look. Visit a local import store for some funky accessories or swap your simple headband for a tropical-print scarf. Little changes will do the trick.
VIRGO: August 23 - September 21: Work: Your mind is more penetrating
PISCES: February 19 - March 20: Work: You are hard to pin down
than usual, and you should try to get yourself moving in a new direction -- or, maybe, to move more deeply in a direction you already feel right about. Love: Watch out for misunderstandings between you and sweetie -- there’s a lot of static in the lines right now and it will be far too easy to run wild if you don’t think to ask for clarification. Health/Style: Have a little faith in the health and beauty rules you hold dear. Just because you can’t prove the value of drinking lots of water or see whether your new moisturizer is working, doesn’t mean it’s not getting the job done. Patience! 60
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now, though that might get frustrating, even for you. See if you can get your colleagues to just listen, rather than trying to turn everything into a dialogue. Love: Love is many things: wonderful, mysterious, confusing. Right now, your love life may be mostly confusing -- but you can expect new insights, and maybe a quick boost from Cupid, very soon. Health/Style: The quicker you get accustomed to a change of pace, the easier life will get. So maybe your personal life gets so busy you have to skip a few gym visits. Resisting reality is usually what causes the most trouble. ONE LOVE, ONE NORTHEAST
RESTAURANT REVIEW
B
eing an avid eater of pork, in whatever form it is served, it would be logical for me to love Naga food. What makes their food unique is the stark simplicity in cooking styles such as fermenting, drying and smoking, minimal use of oil and liberal use of ingredients like hot chillies and bamboo shoot, which is used dried, fermented or fresh. My quest for an authentic Naga experience in the city found adequate satisfaction in Naga Kitchen, in the tiny lane right opposite A.I.D.C. on the Zoo road. I remember my early association with the restaurant (back in my school days) when it was hardly a restaurant; it was just a tiny room in the building with two tables, a sofa and a coffee table run by the owner, pretty much as ‘a one man army’. From those humble beginnings, it is now a nicely done-up
eating joint. The restaurant is of a cosy size with a homely feel, partly because of its non-commercial looking settings on the ground floor of a house. The interiors are quite unique : handcrafted bamboo/wood work which extends to the menu card to the lamp shades and curtains – in fact, the plates and serving dishes used to be of wood too! They have recently expanded the space in the restaurant with a neo-ethnic style of interiors. Now comes the best part, not surprisingly, the food. Traditional cuisines of the Northeast need some acquiring of taste, especially with certain recipes and ingredients. In the case of Naga food, one must be comfortable eating chilli and the more daring can deal with the pungent taste of certain ingredients like akhuni (fermented beans). The proprietor of the restaurant tells me that they import traditional ingredients from Nagaland. The popular Naga curry, comprising of crushed potatoes and tomatoes, is made from either smoked or fresh pork, and will usually be found on any table. My personal favourite is the dry version of smoked pork with shredded dry bamboo shoot, which is usually not available elsewhere. For the adventurous, another dish worth trying is the smoked/fresh pork in akhuni. It is quite pungent but I loved the flavour. The pork in anishi, which is cooked in fermented yam leaves, has a smoky taste. Another pork dish cooked with yam and lai saag (leaves) is also available. These come for less than Rs. 100 per plate, which is very reasonable indeed. However, one of the most popular items is the fried pork, which is usually eaten in snack form. Other pork dishes like with yam, Lai saag leaves or pumpkin is also available. Servings of rice are slightly small. For non-pork eaters, chicken and fish dishes are also available. Chicken comes in the same bamboo shoot variations as pork. I tried fish in bamboo shoot and vegetables which was very hot. A thali is also available that comes at a great value of Rs 75/-. A meal for two may cost around Rs300/All in all, if you crave for Naga cuisine but don’t have the time or the resources to travel all the way to Nagaland just for a bite, try Naga Kitchen. You’ll be happy you did! Aditya Kiran Kakati
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BOOK REVIEW
THE GREAT DIVIDE: INDIA AND PAKISTAN AUTHOR: IRA PANDE PUBLISHER: HARPERCOLLINS, PRICE: RS. 495/-,
A
t a time when India and Pakistan are both reeling under terror attacks and hysterical talk of an impending war, it is important to take stock of where we have reached individually, and as part of the Indian subcontinent, sixty years after we were carved out as two distinct entities. This book, which is a volume of essays by writers from both sides of the border, attempts to do just that. As the editor, Ira Pande, says in her introduction, ‘There is a balance here between the ‘hard’ topics (politics, economy, diplomacy, religion et al) and ‘soft’ (music, crafts, language, cricket, cinema) to bring out the full range of our engagement with each other.’
THE CAGED PHOENIX: CAN INDIA FLY? AUTHOR: DIPANKAR GUPTA PUBLISHER: PENGUIN / VIKING, PRICE: RS.550/-
D
ipankar Gupta, one of India’s foremost thinkers on social and economic issues, takes a critical -and controversial - look at the limits of the Indian success story, knocking down ivory towers and challenging comfortable assumptions in the process. The Caged Phoenix: Can India Fly? argues through a fine blend of theory and new empirical evidence that, despite the promises of Independence and liberalization, India continues to remain caged in backwardness.
Shantanu Ganguly
PERFECT AUTHOR: SARA SHEPARD PUBLISHER: HARPER COLLINS, PRICE: RS. 325/-
T
he third in the hattrick of novels by Shepard with the same continuation of deceit, scandal and treason as the first two, Perfect follows a trail of fear, deception and secrets of five best friends through their growing up years. The suspense builds up when one of the five girls goes missing and then is found dead –along with all the darkest secrets of the other four, and it does not stop there; some one named ‘A’ is out to blackmail one of them for murder. What’s more is that any one of her friends could have had an alleged motive to kill her. Shepard is brilliant in building the tension as the plot thickens resulting in an exciting climax. Old memories, scandals and a lot of suspense make this a sensual and gripping read.
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Pooja Barkataky
THE BASTARD OF ISTANBUL AUTHOR: ELIF SHAFAK PUBLISHER: VIKING FOR PENGUIN BOOKS PRICE: RS. 358/-
O
ne rainy afternoon, a woman walks into a doctor’s surgery. “I need to have an abortion,’ she announces. She is nineteen years old and unmarried. What happens that afternoon will change her life! Twenty years later Asya Kazanci lives in Istanbul with her extended family - her beautiful rebellious mother who owns a tattoo parlour, her grandma and her many aunts! She loves Johnny Cash’s music, is part of a local art group where she is having an affair with an older married man, is forced to learn dancing, enjoys smoking and almost hates every one in her family, mostly her mother Zeliha. One fine day, when a young Armenian-American girl Armanoush, turns up at the Kazanci house, she brings with her memories of her father who was the only living male Kazanci, now staying in America, and still safe from a mysterious family curse where all Kazanci men die in their early forties! Armanoush and Asya become true friends intrigued by each other’s culture but the former’s coming stir the deepest emotions of long hidden family secrets connected with Turkey’s turbulent past as old as 1915. ‘The Bastard of Istanbul’ gives a feeling of being dark, hard hitting, dry humoured and edgy each time any of the characters interact with each other. Gradually, as we begin to understand their relationships, inner self and true feelings, we know the pain and sorrow that have driven them to become what they are! Tough lives, stringent social structure, turbulent past, rutted present and unseen future have made the Kazancis very dry, curt and difficult. Yet, you cannot miss the underlying love for one another, the ceremonial family feasts and belief and faith that bind this family of women who have a world of their own in the ancestral abode. We are taken on a journey of life through each of the protagonists in the novel and finally led to discover the finality of the truth… A controversial fictional writer from Turkey, Shafak’s characters linger in the mind days after finishing the book. With unexpected twists and life-changing hidden truths unveiling, this 357 pager story is unputdownable.
Pooja Barkataky ONE LOVE, ONE NORTHEAST
MOVIE REVIEW
PAN’S LABYRINTH
¦ DIRECTOR: GUILLERMO DEL TORO
CAST : IVANA BANQUERO, DOUG JONES, SERGI LOPEZ I AYATS, ARIADNA GIL, FEDIRICO LUPPI
A
s the skeptic in us refuses to believe in myths or fancy tales, there is an idealistic part in each of us which remains intact and reinforces the belief that good finally wins over evil. Set against the background of Spain during World War II, Pan’s Labyrinth (aka El Labirinto del Fauno) written and directed by Guillermo del Toro, is a peep into the past and the fantasies of the young and imaginative minds of Ofelia (Ivana Baquero) along with her expecting mother, Carmen (Ariadna Gil), who move in with Ofelia’s stepfather, Captain Vidal (Sergi López) near a Spanish camp. As young Ofelia is always encouraged to believe in fairy tales by her unwell and fragile mother, she takes occasional flight into her fantasies which are full of thrilling, yet dark and illusive, characters that deeply impact her soft, yet sturdy, mind. At the very beginning Ofelia encounters a flying creature in the deep jungle, which makes her believe that she is the princess of a far magical land and must complete three tasks, where each one is more horrifying than the previous one, in order to get back her rightful throne in wonderland. And as she explores her own home and the uncanny tunnels and gardens in Vidal’s place, she also sees through the crude reality of her unkind and power-crazy stepfather who ruthlessly kills and exploits the rebelling peasants high with unquestionable power. Though Vidal yearns for the unborn child to take over
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as the heir to the land of ruthless power, it is Ofelia who wishes to rescue her sibling from his dark designs. As the movie progresses with thrilling and captivating sequences one after the other, including the entry of the pale fawn, what grips the viewers is a compelling tale mingled with allegories and carefully balanced narration juggling the real and virtual world of Ofelia. Notable among the scenes are the revolt of the peasants that slowly takes an ugly turn in the later part of the movie, Ofelia befriending Mercedes (Maribel Verdú) a housekeeper who rescues her from the wrath of Vidal and the effective climax where the real and virtual world is merged together and ‘sacrifice’ seems to have won Ofelia her throne. Those who found themselves lost in the two worlds, would eventually find the right meaning at the conclusion of the film. With a powerful musical by Javier Navarrete cushioning the silence of the film, it is the equally enticing special effects, contrasted with devilish characters, that grip the attention of the audience who are bound to lose themselves somewhere between the reality and the allegorical fantasies concocting in the mind of Ofelia. The film is also laced with brilliant choreography and artistic background which creates the perfect ambience of Spain in the early 40’s. Though some characters would appear gory to many, the script is beautifully designed to make it appear natural to the movie. Nominated for 6 Oscars and winner of 3 including the Best Foreign Film category in the year 2007, the movie did manage to grab a dozen other awards conferred in various parts of the world. Pan’s Labyrinth also described as the ‘Alice in Wonderland for adults’ by the makers has what it takes - a strong substance with a powerful delivery by its artists.
Anupa Lahkar
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18-year-old PARIJAT HAZARIKA from Guwahati stepped into the modelling scene three years ago. A higher secondary student of Ascent Academy, she is pursuing Arts. Parijat has worked for several local designers and has also done an ad- film. Her hobbies include singing and writing poetry and, though she enjoys modelling, she would like to pursue MBA one day. HEIGHT: 5’2 VITAL STATS: 34-28-30 PHOTOGRAPHER: Anup Baruah MAKE UP: Bobby
MODEL OF THE MONTH
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LAST WORD
The
Illustration: Kamal Jyoti Kalita
Big Bizarre Rush
N
o, it isn’t a spelling mistake that I’ve made. In fact, it is so overwhelming in its presence that you couldn’t possibly miss it. This monster of a building with its imposing hoardings that entice you to hoard your home with all the not-so-essential goodies. Yes, yes, I know that your wallet is bursting at the seams with those crisp notes and that you fall somewhere in the category of the rich, fat, upper middle class Indian, but must you all rush to the Big Bizarre every Wednesday? You see, lesser mortals like me frequent the mall on Wednesdays because of the best bargains on offer. But unfortunately, because of the claustrophobic presence of people like you and your ilk, who pile up their trolleys with mountains of almost all the goodies on offer, it becomes difficult for us to wait for our turn to pay and go home. Aah! I can see you crinkling up your nose in disgust at my accusation. But trust me, it isn’t an accusation at all, merely an honest affirmation of what I witness around me every time I set foot in this mad shopping destination. Every week, or at least every fortnight, I make a list of what I need to purchase to replenish the kitchen supplies. Why Wednesdays? Well, you know it too, don’t you? The free offer of one kilo of onions and potatoes on a purchase of a minimum of rupees hundred is too temptingly luxurious or luxuriously tempting to ignore. But last Wednesday, in my rush to avoid the stampede that invariably results every week, I forgot to take the coupon that entitles me to the offer. Blissfully unaware that I had left it at home, I went on transferring the essentials to my trolley. It looked so pathetic, especially when I stood next to this lady who dwarfed me completely by her sheer size as well with the things on her trolley. I was beginning to see how mutually beneficial Big Bizarre and customers like her were in this overall ‘growth’ towards ‘prosperity.’ It offers you sugar-coated goodies under the garb of great bargains, and when you can get anything from an innocent looking packet of biscuits to dresses, containers, buckets and everything else you can think of, it would be foolish not to give in to temptation. So, from jams, jellies, fruit squashes loaded with calories, pickles and chips, everything finds its way to the baskets and trolleys, and eventually to your tummies, making you grow ‘bigger,’ while filling the coffers of the owner(s) of Big Bizarre. But as long as there’s an ‘expansion’ on both sides, who’s complaining?
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So that Wednesday, I found myself being pushed, literally, from the grocery section to the fruits and vegetables corner where the serpentine queue dissuaded me from filling up my trolley. The mangoes looked pleadingly at me, and when I didn’t pick them up, their collective expression changed into the most indignant frowns that would put an ignored girlfriend to shame! The queues were now getting alarmingly longer and as I looked at my purchases, I mentally added up the total, glad that it was more than enough that would entitle me for the weekly offer. A few more rounds later, a bunch of unnecessary things found their way to the trolley, thanks largely to my kid, who decided that we needed them. Before things could get out of control, I decided it was time to make an exit. But, to my dismay, almost all the counters were filled with people of prosperous girth with equally bulging trolleys. Luck favoured me as I scanned the floor and found one counter where the line was relatively thin, both ‘figuratively’ and in terms of the trolleys, each held possessively by the respective owners. I stood behind a gentleman, who turned and enquired politely whether he was standing in a ladies’ queue since all, except he, were women. I assured him that there was no such consideration as a ‘ladies line’ in Big Bizarre since shopping there itself is all about a bizarre experience. He smiled in agreement. Soon, it was my turn to pay. I reached for my purse, and wonder of wonders, discovered that I had left that precious bit of paper at home! Now I wouldn’t even get the onions and potatoes. All that mad shopping for nothing! “No, I didn’t bring my coupon” I flashed a smile at the salesman who probably thought I must have been nuts to make the purchases and not avail of the free offer. But then, offers at Big Bizarre do come at a price. How else would it get the enviable tag of Big Bizarre? Ciao! Next Wednesday! Mehnaaz Tasneem Hussain ONE LOVE, ONE NORTHEAST
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ONE LOVE, ONE NORTHEAST