Exotica december 2015

RNI NO. DELENG/2006/18084 POSTAL REGN. NO. DL (C)-01/1151/13-15 Posted at NDPSO on 10th, 11th & 12th of same month Published on 30th of Advance Month

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EDITOR’S L E

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eritage and culture can be woven skillfully as part of a grand tourism policy. I am reminded of two past instances in this context. And I look back to the past simply because they always hold lessons for the future. The first was in Thailand where we visited Muang Boran (Ancient City). Built by a private individual, Muang Boran is a sprawling 320-acre heritage park that gives visitors, both domestic and foreign, a physical glimpse of Thai history and culture. Ancient temples and palaces have been reconstructed on this park with a meticulous eye to detail. The most impressive structure in the complex is the Palace of the Kings of Thailand that is now a ruin in the ancient Capital of Ayutthaya (Ayodhya).

Re-created almost to scale, the palace — complete with a replica of the traditional throne — kindles the imagination.

It is a fascinating way of bringing history alive.

Not surprisingly, the park is visited daily by groups of schoolchildren with their teachers giving running commentaries on the evolution of modern Thailand over the centuries. Imagine recreating emperor Ashoka’s fabled palace in Pataliputra. The architectural details of these long-lost structures can be culled from contemporary paintings and it is possible to reconstruct this glorious period of our history so that present and future generations take pride in India’s resplendent past.

Similarly, in Singapore, we were struck by the imaginative manner in which the island’s history has been packaged for tourists, also through private initiative. Sentosa, a small island just off the city, has a splendid entertainment park that offers visitors a fascinating array of spectacles, including a virtually live narration of the city-state’s history. A stunning audio-visual presentation of 10 minutes packages the drama of the family that constructed the park.

Editor Chandan Mitra EDITORIAL BOARD Vice-chairman & Joint Managing Director Amit Goel Group President Aparna Sengupta 09958000128 Chief Executive Officer Abhishek Saxena Editor-in-charge Rinku Ghosh

EDITORIAL Rupinder Kaur, Priyanka Joshi & Devi Singh Chief Designer Anand Singh Rawat Senior Designer Santosh Kumar Yadav Pre-press Manager Syed Nawab Raza Production Manager Dhiresh Gaur Staff photographer Pankaj Kumar

HERITAGE

MORE THAN

TOURISM

[CHANDAN MITRA]

SALES & MARKETING General Manager Kumar Gurudutta Jha Deputy General Manager Ravi Khatri Manager Bharat Singh Sajwan, Prabhakar Pathak Government & PSU General Manager Tapan Ghosh Assistant Manager Neeta Rai Media Coordinator Neelu Sharma

E R

Then, visitors are led through a gallery comprising clay models depicting the evolution of everyday life in Singapore over the centuries. A recorded narrative wafts in from the background explaining the contents of each section. Some of the models are mechanised too. For example, a model showing the surrender of Japanese forces in 1945 has Lord Mountbatten’s bespectacled frame moving from one side to the other as if transfixed on the fine print of the surrender document. Incidentally, there are several references in the gallery to Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose and the Indian National Army that he founded here with Indian soldiers of the British Army. I thought the references were fairly neutral, considering Netaji could not have been much of a hero to Singaporeans on account of his collaboration with Japan during World War II. We, on the other hand, have not gone beyond a few cursory son-et-lumieres at Red Fort and Teen Murti Bhawan. Given the incredible dimensions of India’s 5,000 years of recorded history, this is woefully inadequate. Where’s that living museum of Indian history that ought to be a “must see” for every visitor to Delhi? Why haven’t we thought of similar parks that can package entertainment with heritage? Why is it that we look to the Government for everything and then politicise whatever is done? I am sure most entertainment barons have visited these and similar parks around the world.

But what they have obviously failed to internalise is that history need not be grasped only through boring classroom lectures. If packaged attractively as part of a cultural heritage it can also be a moneyspinner, besides contributing something positive to the goal of nation building.Considering India is more than a nation, it is a civilisation, we owe it to ourselves and our future generations to create such heritage parks.

Mumbai Office General Manager Devendra Adhikari 09867575933 Kolkata Office Vice President Suzanna Roy 09830197332 General Manager (Circulation) Rajeev Gautam

DISTRIBUTED BY: LIVING MEDIA INDIA LIMITED Printed and published by Chandan Mitra for and on behalf of CMYK Printech Ltd, printed at Lustra Print Process Pvt Ltd, Killa No. 51/21, Village: Rohad, District: Jhajjar, Bahadurgarh, Haryana and published at 2nd floor, Patriot House, 3, Bahadur Shah Zafar Marg, New Delhi 110002. Editor: Chandan Mitra. Entire Contents Copyright (C) 2006 CMYK Printech Ltd. All rights reserved. Reproduction or translation in any language in whole or in part without permission is prohibited. Requests for permission should be directed to CMYK Printech Ltd. Opinions carried in Exotica are the writers’ and not necessarily endorsed by CMYK Printech Ltd. The publisher assumes no responsibility for the return of unsolicited material or for material lost or damaged in transit. All correspondence should be addressed to CMYK Printech Ltd; 2nd Floor, Patriot House, 3, Bahadur Shah Zafar Marg, New Delhi-110002 Phone: 23718296/40754136 Fax: 23755275 Email: exotica.pioneer@gmail.com

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CONTENTS DECEMBER

Underwater Deep sea secrets p36

2015

VOLUME

10

FEATURES:

Little Black Book Sanjay Suri p10

Fashion Wrap it up p16 Devotion A church by, for and of the people p20

Newyear Final countdown p28 Food Steamy perfection p44

2

ENCOUNTER Anupam Kher shares his views p68

FEATURES:

Travel Solo and Safe p14 Joint Venture p58

NO

Voyage The eternal sunshine of a compassionate mind p82

‘ANYBODY WHO HAS FALLEN IN LOVE ONCE WILL IDENTIFY WITH THIS PLAY. I ALWAYS WANT TO PERFORM PLAYS WHICH PEOPLE CAN RELATE TO’ TOTAL NUMBER OF PAGES 108 INCLUDING COVER

OUR PARTNER HOTELS

Astroturf Future perfect p90 Spaces Get a green home p96 Drink The Next Hop p98

Guruspeak True success p100 Fitness The sun salutation is a simple way to gain from yoga p102

S

THELITTLEBLACKBOOK F A V O U R I T E

Sanjay Suri is a Bollywood actor and producer. He is known for his exceptional role in the 2005 film My Brother...Nikhil

H A U N T S

O F

S T Y L I S H

P E O P L E

Currently, I would say any wildlife sanctuary. Recently, I visited the Kanha National Park in Madhya Pradesh and fell in love with it instantly. I have travelled extensively in India and love going to the NorthEast. I have been to Assam and Meghalaya and now want to explore Sikkim and Arunachal Pradesh.

Nothing too fancy for me as I’m a classic aviator Ray-Ban guy.

I am yet to go on a luxurious exotic vacation but I would love to explore the incredible heritage and the natural beauty of Vietnam soon.

10 EXOTICA / DECEMBER 2015

When it comes to footwear, comfort is what I look for.

I prefer buying shoes from Aldo. Apart from being stylish and comfortable, they are also durable.

I always prefer sticking to the basics. My wardrobe is filled with outfits from River Island.

When it comes to belts, I stick to shades of tan and black. My favourite is my Gucci belt.

TRAVEL ROHAN RAJGHARIA offers safety tips to single women travellers

SOLO&SAFE

SAFETY FIRST: With theft and harassment two big concerns for women, your priority on a solo trip must be your safety. Be prepared, be selfreliant and don’t depend on strangers.

ALL STRANGERS: For a solo traveller, everyone is a stranger unless you make any effort. If you feel uncomfortable during the interaction, just walk away. It’s totally okay to be rude when safety is concerned.

TRAVEL LIGHT: Be a smart traveller, pack light and don’t get burdened by unnecessary luggage.

Instead opt for a backpack with basic essentials like a map, a guide book, packed food, a water bottle and a first aid kit.

PUBLIC TRANSPORT: Dig out information about hotels near your railway station, bus terminal or airport. You’ll save time in commuting. For commute, take public conveyance, which is economical and easily available.

PRE-PLAN: Map the area you’re going to and gather as much information about it. Keep a list of the must-see spots and make reservations for your return journey to save situations.

AVOID DARK: Try to begin your journey during

the day and avoid travelling when it’s dark. If you still need to travel at night, make sure you choose a safe mode of transport and avoid carrying too much cash.

STAY CONNECTED: While travelling, stay connected with your friends and loved ones over the phone or email to ensure they know your whereabouts.

BE TECH-SAVVY: Always have a cellphone handy with downloads of suitable travel and safety apps, a currency converter, some travel guide and a power bank for your phone battery in case you get lost in a new place.

PAPER READY: Always carry photocopies of your important documents like passport, identity cards and store all these in one place so that you have no difficulty finding them.

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FASHION

H&M Elfie Selfie Holiday Jumper `1,799

GAP Men’s Navy Jacket with Collar `8,499

W rap it up

Aeropostale Fairisle stripe scarf `1,999

Winter is here. Time to pep up your woollen wardrobe. From cute holiday humour to luxe fashion fair to fur accents, here are some sassy choices for a worthy statement Christian Louboutin Troopista Suede Moutarde Gold `92,440 New Look Faux Fur Collar `1,095

16 EXOTICA / DECEMBER 2015

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FASHION

Nautica navy blue sweatshirt `4,999

Frostheld Climaheat Grey Jacket `11,511

Woodland Infralite Duck Down Jacket for women `8,000

GANT navy blue canvas shoes with brown hard leather laces `6,999

Arden Hi Top Brogue Boots `7,500

18 EXOTICA / DECEMBER 2015

BEAUTY

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20 EXOTICA / DECEMBER 2015

ONCE YOU HAVE INVESTED IN THE ESSENTIALS, SIX EASY STEPS CAN HELP YOU CREATE THE PERFECT BASE FOR AN ENVIABLE TEXTURE STEP 2: Prep your skin by cleansing your face with a gentle cleansing foam. If you are on the go, you can also use moisturising face wipes to cleanse your face and neck of any dust or grime.

STEP 1: The first and most important step to a perfect finish is to choose the shade that matches your skin. The vast range of foundations (liquid or pressed) in a store might leave you confused. Don’t fret — experiment with varied shades by swiping them along your jaw line to check which shade matches your complexion best.

Make sure to test the shade in natural light as overhead lighting in stores can cast unattractive shadows.

STEP 4: Perfecting the technique of swiping foundation is very important. Start by evenly dabbing small amounts of liquid foundation on to your face — nose, mouth, chin and centre of forehead — and blend thin layers by working outwards from the middle of your face. Use your fingers to mix the foundation.

Don’t ignore your neck or you will end up with differently toned face and neck. Blend the foundation on your neck by starting from the base and moving upwards in light, long strokes.

22 EXOTICA / DECEMBER 2015

STEP 3: Before you smoothen

STEP 5: After applying the foundation, it is essential to conceal the problem areas of your face.

While buying a concealer, pick a shade lighter than your foundation.

Apply the concealer with a small brush to the darkest parts of your under-eye circles and lightly blend it with the foundation layer. If other areas of your skin aren’t covered with foundation properly, you can dab on a little concealer for a smooth finish. Concentrate on your nose, the edges of your mouth and blemishes or acne, if any.

the foundation, use a primer to create a base for your foundation.

A primer will help the foundation stay on your skin for longer and also prevent patches or an uneven result. If you do not have a primer, a lightweight moisturiser acts perfectly well as a substitute. Ensure that you allow five minutes for the moisturiser/primer to completely soak into your skin before applying the foundation.

STEP 6: In order to keep the foundation and concealer in place, it is recommended to finish off by applying compact or pressed powder. Wait for a few minutes to let the foundation and concealer set; use a large powder brush to dust some powder on to your face. Choose the shade of powder that matches the slightly darker areas of your face where the harsh sun tends to hit you the most. If your T-zone tends to get shiny, swirl a translucent powder over your nose, chin and forehead.

CHRISTMAS

A The Medak cathedral stands tall as a salute to the people who built it and ensured it endeared itself to the universal pilgrim Text & photos by RAMCHANDER PENTUKER

24 EXOTICA / DECEMBER 2015

distinctly cool whiff greeted me as I entered the tall nave, and even as my eyes adjusted to the dim, mysterious interiors, I was struck by its vast enclosing space, huge columns and bejewelled windows. The muted notes, played on the large, ancient piped-organ, died out gradually and sonorously.

Suddenly I found myself surrounded by a thousand brilliant shafts of coloured beams of light, streaming down the huge high windows richly adorned with the resplendent beauty of stained glass.

CHRISTMAS The next moment I realised that I was standing dwarfed in the holy presence of Jesus.

Looming large above the altar, I saw the sun of the holy spirit ascending to heaven. “It is the largest stained glass window in the country and was made in London by the renowned artist, Frank O Salisbury,” says Bishop Kanaka Prasad. Standing tall, right behind the altar, it is an exceptionally beautiful piece of art I have ever seen and is visible in all its fullness to the whole congregation in the nave.

There is hardly any traveller passing via Medak who does not stop to drop in to see this cathedral and wonder at the breathtaking beauty of the huge stained glass windows that fill it.

They are no ordinary glass windows, they are a Gospel of Christian Trilogy, wrought in special solar glass and painted in glowing translucent colours. They tell about the glory of Jesus — his birth, his crucifixion and finally his ascension, all in colourful floating figures.

Standing like an immense rock-castle and easily accommodating up to 3,000 people at a time, the cathedral, officially called the Medak Church, occupies a place right in the middle of town and is visible from all sides, no matter where you stand. Because of its proximity to Hyderabad (an hour-and-a-half drive), there is a constant flow of visitors coming in to see its stunning glass interiors.

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eople often wonder why would they dare to have a church of such great dimensions built here far from the city. That was what the British clergyman Charles Walker Posnett wanted those days and his opportunity came when a great famine struck through Medak for several years. He helped the hungry by giving them food and in return sought their labour to build this church. It took ten years to build it (1914-1924).

The entire structure, including its 173 feet high tower, takes its strength from granite quarried from the nearby hills. “But for the Nizam, who wanted this church not taller than the Charminar,

26 EXOTICA / DECEMBER 2015

the tower would have been taller than what it is today,” says Bishop Kanaka Prasad.

A

great cathedral like this could only be a collective achievement. It was built on people and their faith, especially the simple folk and farm labour of Medak. As an expression of gratitude to woman labour, the artist was particular about giving his paintings a touch of the Orient. In the Ascension window for example, you will also find a young brown Indian woman sitting among the congregation.

The Medak cathedral, though Protestant, welcomes everybody. In fact, not just Christians but people following other religions also pay regular visits. During Christmas, the week-long celebrations at the church attract thousands of pilgrims.

NEWYEAR

It’s that time of the year again when you start thinking of newer options to unwind with friends, family or even look for some solo fun. With a plethora of choices on offer in various cities around the country, it’s hard to decide where to head out.

To ease your confusion, here are the top spots to ring in the New Year.

Raucous, ribald or relaxing, this list has it all 28 EXOTICA / DECEMBER 2015

NEWYEAR GOA

T

he first and most obvious name that one thinks of when thinking of the New Year.

The beach parties, night life bustling in and outside clubs and bars, with jazz or trance, exotic hobby alleys and amazing food, the place has over the years gained popularity as the most sought after New Year destination, attracting people across the world. You can head to Vagator beach for the Sunburn festival from December 27 to 30. In case you can’t make it to the festival, then explore some beach revelry at Baga, Anjuna, Candolim or hit the streets of Panjim for the New Year dance.

DIU

S

till a bit unexplored, this comes as a fresh treat for wanderlust enthusiasts.

Connected to Gujarat, Diu is a serene place known for its sandy beaches, caves and forts. You can surf and parasail in Ghoghla, the largest beach in Diu. The Naida Caves located outside the city wall of the Diu fort are a must-visit if getting lost wilfully catches your fancy. You can also head out to explore the impressive 16th century Portuguese fort. With Asia’s longest beach festival, Festa De Diu, all set to launch in December, Diu definitely comes under the list of most happening places for the New Year.

UDAIPUR

K

nown as the ‘City of Lakes,’ Udaipur is famous for its Rajputana palaces, handicraft market and diverse wildlife.

Visit the place around New Year’s Eve for some royal treatment. The temples of Udaipur are known for their striking architecture and impressive structures. If you are tired, then the lavish gardens will definitely refresh you.

The massive forts reveal the stories of the glorious past and their solid foundation is worth mentioning. Apart from these, the city has one of the best solar observatories of the world. A complete package to keep you busy and indulged at the same time.

30 EXOTICA / DECEMBER 2015

NEWYEAR PUDUCHERRY

T

he quaint town, best known for its French cultural and architectural elements, is the best place if you are seeking some selfreflection. Aurobindo Ashram, one of the major highlights of Puducherry, is visited by thousands of people from around the world. Enjoy your sunset at the Promenade beach, also known as the rocky beach. Pondy also boasts of a wide range of charming cafes serving French and Creole cuisine.

You can head to Auroville, City of Dawn, for some spiritual experience. This one comes out as a perfect destination for a relaxed New Year.

ANDAMANS

T

he pristine white sand beaches and the serene surrounding areas make this the ideal New Year getaway. It is famous for its various water sports activities like scuba-diving, snorkelling and sea-walking.

Havelock Island, in Andamans, has the bluest waters and dazzling white sand beaches with bamboo huts. You can also go sea-kayaking through mangroves or take a boat ride to the oldest lighthouse surrounded by beautiful coral reefs. Barren Island, situated 135 km away from Port Blair, is where you can get to see the only active volcano in India.

KERALA

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ne of the most desired New Year hot spots, Kerala has been getting a multitude of tourists from across the country and the world. Visit Alleppey, the “Venice of the East,� whose canals, lagoons, beaches and backwaters will soothe your nerves. An idyllic village life coupled with the best backwaters experience in India make Alleppey ideal for those looking for some tranquility. You can also explore Wayanad for its solitude, nature and green forests. Stay in a tree-house perched above a rainforest canopy overnight and spend the morning after bird-watching and simply lolling around.

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NEWYEAR LAKSHADWEEP

T

he island group is not as popular as the Andamans but is emerging as one of the New Year destinations in India. Only 10 out of the 36 islands are inhabited, which means you can bring in the New Year in repose. The major attractions are the coral reefs, an underwater paradise for people interested in scuba diving and snorkeling. Bangaram and Kadmat islands are the two major tourist destinations. Water sports activities such as wind surfing, canoeing, water skiing and sport fishing lure tourists.

KASOL

I

f you are more of a backpacker, trekker or nature lover, then this is the place for you. A peaceful, beautiful and a budget-friendly escapade in the scenic hills of the Himachal, Kasol is home to not one but many psy-trance music festivals held in the hills. The hippie destination, Parvati Valley, known for its coniferous forests and crystal clear mountain streams, is a beautiful place to chill. Have a ball with the crazy parties in the hills. Check out Malana and Tosh for their mind-blowing natural beauty and Israeli food.

DARJEELING

T

his is yet another beautiful place to spend the New Year in true colonial style. Well-surrounded by nature’s beauty, Darjeeling’s cheerful spirit despite the tufty snow extends till New Year, thus making it more enjoyable for tourists.

White water rafting is fast becoming the most popular activity in and around Darjeeling. Unmatched in thrill and action, this is the best way to experience the gushing waters of the Teesta and Rangeet rivers. Be it the breath-taking views of the Kanchenjunga from the Tiger Hill or the quaint monasteries of Darjeeling and Ghoom, this one has to offer more than you can take.

34 EXOTICA / DECEMBER 2015

UNDERWATER

Deep

sea secrets Havelock Islands have some of the highest counts of sea creatures and fish. Moreover the diving costs are low and locals are friendly.

Diver Digant Desai shares his experience

UNDERWATER

C

ity life is getting to me; very edgy and irritable with meetings, office, travel, cabs, social nights and finally dark circles under my eyes. It has been over two months since I have dived and my wife senses the mood. After a really short argument with hardly any input from my end, a ticket is booked to Port Blair. Havelock is my destination and dive platform for the next two weeks. Some of the best diving in India is possible from here.

For the last 10 years that I have been visiting Havelock, a lot has changed. There are now two ATMs, autos and even cabs, pizzas and ice cream.

38 EXOTICA / DECEMBER 2015

But diving is top notch. Even the tsunami and earthquake have not dented the quality. Some dive sites that did get damaged are coming back with fresh coral growth. Reminiscing on the ferry to Havelock brings a smile to my face with earlier encounters coming to mind. Dolphins with babies at Dixons, never letting them off by their side and never dropping guard, playing with them to get their physical development going, the friendly Napoleon wrasse at Jonny’s gorge and an angry moray that suddenly lashed out at me for trespassing his burrow space. The wrasse is a good friend to have because it remembers divers. Most often they will approach divers, using their constantly roving eyes to follow

UNDERWATER and scrutinise their movements. Look into their eyes and you cannot help but be struck by their obvious intelligence and awareness. They seem to enjoy being stroked and will lean against the pressure of your hand. Sometimes they will even give a diver a gentle nudge or a brush, just like a dog acts when it wants to be petted.

M

ost exciting of all was finding and photographing the mimic and blue ring octopus. Apparently, that was the first time these were documented and photographed in these waters. Compared to Lakshadweep, diving at Havelock is exciting as the variety of marine life is far more extensive.

Ferries arrive on the northern part of the oval-shaped island. Each beach/area is numbered and this one’s number 1. Most of the diving is from beach 1-5 and beach 7 has been rated time and again as one of the finest in Asia. Logging around these islands was one of the primary activities a while ago but the courts have decreed a stop to this. Elephants used for this activity are unique that they would regularly enter the ocean for a wash and Rajan, one of the elephants that you can snorkel with, is no less than a celebrity now. A little farming and fishing apart from tourism is the main source of livelihood for locals.

Dive India, one of the earlier dive centres to operate from Havelock, has always been my choice to dive with and still is. Arguably they have been instrumental in finding some amazing dive sites through their guides and I am very happy with their standard of safety. The sites are aptly named after them, Jonny’s gorge, Dixon’s Pinnacle, Jackson’s Bar and very recently a dive site called V16, where V is the initial of the guy who discovered this site. It is probably one of my most favourite sites in the Andamans.

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n jumping in, around 19 metres of going under, you reach the sea floor. At first sight all you see is black sand. Not many divers like this site but as an underwater

40 EXOTICA / DECEMBER 2015

UNDERWATER photographer seeking new subjects, this is manna from heaven. Some of the tiniest and weirdest denizens of the ocean can be found at this site if one is patient and looks really hard. A really special encounter is the symbiotic relationship between blennies and blind shrimps. The shrimps, which are completely blind, dig holes in the sand in which the blennies take residence along with them. The latter, in return for this co-habitation, warn the former of lurking danger with a flicker of their tails and together they rush into the hole.

Each day of diving brings new joys experiences, photographs and friends from all over the world.

A night dive at the wall brings an encounter with a squid that’s straight out of ET. Flashing colours like a disco ball and looking like an alien from Mars, it is an absolute delight. Havelock is also one of the few places from where dugongs or sea cows have been sighted and one that is on my bucket list to photograph. These mammals are found mostly in ones or twos as they sort out the sea grass patches, shaking them off sand using their flippers

42 EXOTICA / DECEMBER 2015

like forearms with the ease of a human almost.

After a few movies like Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara, Havelock has become the destination of choice for all levels of divers, experienced to novices and those seeking certification.

There are now more dive centres concentrated here than anywhere else in India.

Unlike other places in Southeast Asia, in Havelock, the cost is low, locals and people are friendly and the pace of life is slow. One of the highest fish counts and corals are found in and around the Andaman Sea with sharks, mantas, a colourful kaleidoscope of fish, turtles and if lucky dugongs.

And for the non-diver, there’s lazing in hammocks, books, peace, serenity, great food and snorkelling that few places in India can boast of.

For me though, the combination of diving and photography takes me to a state of ekagrata (one point concentration). The entire experience is beyond belief and one that shakes your emotive energies into a state of bliss.

FOOD Those succulent little packages with flavours galore, when paired with sizzling sauces and dips, can take anyone to their happy place. Sit back as we list for you the dim sum, dumpling epicness being offered with exotic combinations like bright green steamed edamame beans delicately wrapped in beetroot stained wrapper and much more

Cheung fun at Yauatcha A rice noodle dim sum dish with shitake, oyster and shimeji mushrooms prepared with Cheung Fun batter, soya sauce on thin noodle sheets. This Cantonese dish, when well prepared, can be described using two words in Chinese: “heung” which means good aroma and “whaat” meaning smooth.

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FOOD

Banana Leaf Sticky Rice and Minced Chicken Dumpling at Chi Asian Cookhouse, Janpath One can call it is a beautiful mystery enveloped in aromatic layers. Not your usual dumpling, this one comes wrapped delicately in a banana leaf. It is at the core where all the flavours are housed. A perfect balance of flavours and the well-cooked rice with the right amount of moisture is the key to the dreamy taste.

A steamy, earthy flavour tempered by the texture contrast between pulpy rice and minced chicken will leave you pleasantly surprised thus making this dumpling a must-try.

Shitake and Pok Choy Dim Sum at Tamra, Shangri La The Shitake and Pok Choy dim sum is a traditional type of Chinese dumpling. The ingredients and flavours used are dominated primarily by Cantonese cuisine that comes from the

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Guangdong province in China and is one of the eight culinary traditions of Chinese cuisine.

Shitake and Pok Choy dim sums are accompanied by a dip.

Wild Mushroom and Truffle Oil Dim Sum at Fatty Bao When dining at The Fatty Bao next, whether in Mumbai, Delhi or Bangalore, don’t forget to order yourself a portion of their signature Wild Mushroom and Truffle Oil dim sum.

As the large bamboo dim sum steamer basket arrives at your table and the lid is gently removed, the delightful earthy aroma of truffle oil invades your olfactory senses. The unusual boat shaped dumpling gets its unique red colour from the beetroot stained wrapper. Contrasting this and sitting delicately on the top of each open dim sum are bright green steamed edamame beans. The filling comprises a mix of different mushrooms while snow fungus while the edemame beans on top bring together a rather interesting combination. Exotic mushrooms and the hint of the truffle oil and the rather attractive colour make it first on the must haves list at this restaurant.

Crunchy Broccoli and Shitake Dim Sum from The Gateway Resort Damdama Lake, Gurgaon Savour a dose of health and flavour with the greeny nutritious goodness of broccoli sauteed with chopped ginger, garlic, onions and shitake mushrooms, all exquisitely wrapped up in thin dough sheets and then steamed.

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FOOD

Jungle Dumpling at Mamagoto Take a walk on the wild side with Mamagoto’s Jungle Dumpling which is a chive infused vegetable or minced shrimp dumpling, topped with ginger, mint and soy sauce. The ingredients and flavours used have drawn inspiration from Japanese cuisine wherein sushi is dipped in ginger and soy sauce. However, Mamagoto, known to add its quirky twists to authentic Asian cuisines, has added some mint to the combination of ginger and soy to create its own special dumpling.

Gyoza at Guppy by ai Gyoza are dumplings filled with ground meat and vegetables and wrapped in a thin dough. Also known as pot stickers, gyoza originated in China (where they are called jiaozi), but have become a very popular dish in Japan.

Yaki gyoza is by far the most common type of gyoza. At Guppy by ai, they are pan fried in a hot skillet before a mixture of water and cornstarch is poured in and everything is covered for a few minutes. The water and cornstarch mixture helps to steam the gyoza, making them soft and juicy while creating a thin crispy bottom on each individual gyoza. Yaki gyoza are typically served with the crispy bottom side up. At Guppy, they serve it with two filling options — delicious prawns for nonvegetarians and delectable mushroom and asparagus for vegetarians. The latter comes with a glutenfree option as well.

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Gyoza at Sakura, The Metropolitan Hotel & Spa A hot-selling dumpling at the award-winning authentic Japanese restaurant, Sakura. This pan-fried or steamed dumpling wrapper has succulent filling of prawns, chicken, pork or sumptuous veggies. It’s usually eaten with a simple dipping sauce made at the table with equal amounts of soy sauce and vinegar. Juicy and delicious, these little savoury parcels are so dainty but so moreish, it’s simply love at first bite.

HOTWHEELS KUSHAN MITRA

Auto & tech expert

The RS7 is utterly ridiculous, and makes a mockery of speed limits, but it does so in extreme comfort with a wonderful entertainment system and on the right roads, very comfortably indeed

U

sually amped-up versions of regular cars don’t really look the part; in fact, they look the same as the regular car. This is akin to a bodybuilder wearing a loose shirt and that has also been the case with Audi’s. The S and RS variants might wear the badges and a bit of bling here and there, but they never really stand out from the crowd.

Part of the reason is Teutonic unexceptionalism. In India, we love the badges on our cars, so much so that the theft of car logos and hood ornaments was at a time a major problem. However, in Germany, the birthplace of the RS7, car logos are not a big deal. So you will see a BMW

toy

Bigboy

HOTWHEELS

5-series on the road but you will not realise which variant it is. Those with an eye for detail will recognise the amped up versions AMG for Mercedes, M for BMW and RS for Audi but often even these variants are devoid of signage marking their ancestry.

S

o the RS7 is a bit of a surprise on that front because it looks the part. The first thing you notice is the thin veneer of rubber around the gigantic alloy wheels that is masquerading as a tyre. The next thing are the huge haunches of this car; the car looks fullbodied, it looks like Beyonce. Then there are the aerodynamic fittings, such as the ridiculously low front air-dam. The regular A7 sedan looks good with its Sportback design-style but this car is clearly an A7 that spends a couple of hours in the gym everyday.

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The fun part in any ridiculous car is when you get behind the wheel. But the RS7 is surprisingly gentle at low speeds, the ride quality on some roads is quite obviously not as soft as say that on any other large Audi sedan, given that the tyres have almost no give. You can actually feel the painted lines on a road, and driving over cat’s eyes are transferred into the cabin. You also have to be extremely careful with this car around potholes or even the large mountains disguising themselves as speed breakers. So when you do take this car out, drive it on roads you know that are nice and soft. Such as those in central Delhi and the Noida-Agra expressway.

Give this car a nice open stretch of road and let some air into the engine and watch as the mesmerising mix of carbon and noise fill the air.

The twin-turbo four-litre engine produces a quite a lot of horsepower, 560 of them to be precise.

HOTWHEELS And despite the fact that the RS7 is a very comfortable and heavy cruiser, this power can make it move fast. Very fast.

Closing speeds on the traffic ahead are incredible, you have to plan overtaking moves a kilometre or two before you undertake them. This car is utterly ridiculous, and makes a mockery of speed limits, but it does so in extreme comfort with a wonderful entertainment system and on the right roads, very comfortably indeed.

Then comes the question of handling, and the fact that the RS7 does have a formidable competitor in the BMW M5; and possibly on the racetrack the lighter and agile M5 is the car to buy. Although, in terms of size and quality, the RS7 is actually pitted against the brilliant BMW M6. And they are both very good, very fast and very comfortable cruisers. In fact, between the M6 and RS7, it is nearly impossible to choose a favourite, possibly the Audi simply because your writer is partial to the Sportback design.

We live in more environmentally-conscious

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times and buying a car that pretty much eats fuel in big gulps rather than sip it through a skinny straw might not make sense. Yet, there is a pleasure in a big petrol engined beast that you do not get in eco-cars, even the German luxury brands fitted with their small (and controversial) diesel engines.

I

t is rather ridiculous to spend ` 1.4 crore (ex-showroom; closer to ` 1.7 crore on-road) on a car like this, yet for someone who loves car and loves the sensation of going fast, there can be no better joy to do so in such levels of comfort.

This is a car that can also manage the daily commute and deal with kids at the back. Heck, it is large enough in the back that you pass it on to a chauffeur on weekdays. Sure, Audi’s own R8 costs only a wee bit more but is by virtue of being a supercar not as practical. Maniacal and practical are not two adjectives that one would usually string together. However in this case, those are the adjectives that best describe this crazy car!

TRAVELEASY Don’t let sore joints restrict your travel dreams.

Small measures with the help of a good doctor can help you go around the world even with a condition

T

by DR RAJEEV K SHARMA

ravelling might be fun for the healthy and young but for elderly people and those living with arthritis, navigating distances while managing sore joints is a tough choice. With arthritis reducing their ability to walk and climb stairs, people start leading extremely curtailed lives restricted to home.

They step out only when absolutely necessary and travelling for leisure takes a backstage.

However, with some effort, travelling can be eased for such people. It is essential to realise that a lot of barriers are in our mind. There are always solutions to traverse the path. Wheelchairs can be availed at airports and railway stations, porters can be called for luggage and taxis can drop you at your destination. And then of course, there are some small measures to better manage sore joint during sojourns.

MEET AN ORTHOPAEDIC EXPERT BEFORE TRAVELLING: For arthritis patients, it is always good to see their doctor before embarking on a

journey. He would advise how to keep pain at bay and prescribe nutritional supplements, antiinflammatory and pain management drugs, if they are not consuming any already. He would also guide them about how much to strain the knees, when to rest and what knee supports can help.

ICE FOMENTATION: Always carry ice gel packs and do cold fomentation as frequently as possible.

This is the safest way to cut pain in arthritic joints.

FOLLOW PRECAUTIONS: Always carry a walking aid in case of severe deformity around hip and knee as it will prevent fall and the complication arising thereof. It also helps in walking with reduction in pain and discomfort. Avoid bending knees and climbing stairs as far as possible.

WEAR KNEE SUPPORTS: Knee supporting braces lend the weak joint more stability while walking, climbing or getting up. Knee braces also relieve pain. There are multiple high technology knee supports available today. Elastic knee braces, in

JOINT VENTURE

7+( $57 2) /,*+7,1* ,1129$7,21

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KNEE SUPPORTING BRACES LEND THE WEAK JOINT MORE STABILITY WHILE WALKING, CLIMBING OR GETTING UP. IN CASE THE PAIN GETS INTENSE, THE KNEE BRACES ALSO HELP GIVE SOME RELIEF

particular, are helpful while travelling. Get an expert to recommend or customise the right one for you.

TRAVEL LIGHT: Better to be safe than sorry. You may be tempted to stuff a lot of things on the move but it is not a very good idea when a porter or help isn’t available. Always travel light if you have painful or arthritic joints. You never know when you may need to drag your bag yourself further straining the knees or worse causing a tear.

DRINK WATER: Often during travel most of us, healthy knees or not, refrain from drinking enough water for fear of looking for a suitable toilet. This may compound the pain and unease in the joints.

We often underestimate the importance of water in maintaining joint health. The cartilage between the joints, that is responsible for reducing friction between bone edges, is a semi soft tissue which needs to be soft to play its function of protecting the

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bones properly. Hence the importance of keeping your body hydrated for preventing joint pain to worsen. For people already suffering from joint related ailments, lack of enough water over a prolonged period of time might unnecessarily augment pain and uneasiness.

MAINTAIN MOBILITY: Keep yourself as much mobile as possible, even if you are on a train or flight. Lack of movement worsens the condition of arthritic joints. So, every hour stand up from your seat and take a stroll to keep yourself moving.

EXERCISING: On a vacation we tend to ignore the need for exercise. Much like food and water, physical movement is important for health. Exercises that stretch your body, nerves and muscles are important every single day. Don’t forego them.

— The author is Orthopedic Surgeon, Indraprastha Apollo Hospital, New Delhi

LUXURY

Classic CARS Titus with his winning car

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LUXURY

YEAR: 1920 MODEL: Moon, Model 6-42 CLASS: Pre-War Classics — American OWNER: Shrivardhan Kanoria

The Cartier ‘Travel with Style’ Concours d’Elegance 2015 held in New Delhi recently showcased some of the rarest and best-preserved vintage automobiles from across India.

In its fourth edition, the event, curated by the renowned Indian automotive historian and expert, Manvendra Singh Barwani, had 82 rarest classic automobiles and 32 bestpreserved motorcycles from the esteemed stables of Indian royal patrons and noted private collectors on display.

The event was hosted by Stanislas de Quercize, President & CEO, Cartier International and Laurent Gaborit, Regional Managing Director, Cartier Middle East, India & Africa at the Jaipur Polo Grounds. The 1933 Minerva AL 40HP owned by renowned collector Diljeet Titus was judged the best car of the show and the 1936 Royal Enfield 500cc owned by Parvinder Singh was judged the best motorcycle. A glimpse of some of the beauties on display.

YEAR: 1922 MODEL: Rolls Royce Silver Ghost CLASS: Exhibition OWNER: Karamjit Jaiswal

LUXURY

YEAR: 1933 MODEL: Minerva AL 40HP CLASS: Vanden Plas OWNER: Diljeet Titus

YEAR: 1931 MODEL: Lanchester 15/18HP CLASS: Pre-War Classics OWNER: Ravi Talwar

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LUXURY YEAR: 1925 MODEL: Hispano Suiza H6B CLASS: Pre-War Classics OWNER: GD Gopal

YEAR: 1941 MODEL: Cadillac Series 75 CLASS: Pre-War Classics — American OWNER: Maharaja Gaj Singhji of Jodhpur

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LUXURY

YEAR: 1934 MODEL: Steward 1½-ton CLASS: Exhibition OWNER: Yuvraj Vishwaraj Singh of Udaipur

YEAR: 1935 MODEL: Mercedes 290 CLASS: Preservation OWNER: Yuvraj Mandhatasinh Jadeja of Rajkot

YEAR: 1936 MODEL: Lanchester Straight Eight 4½-litre CLASS: Preservation OWNER: Hormusji Cama

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LUXURY

YEAR: 1939 MODEL: Lagonda V12 CLASS: Preservation OWNER: Awini Ambuj Shanker

YEAR: 1937 MODEL: Rolls Royce Phantom II CLASS: Best of Show — 2013 OWNER: Maharaja Gaj Singhji of Jodhpur

ENCOUNTER

Actor Anupam Kher along with his crew staged a beautiful yet heartbreaking rendition of two parted lovers with his play Mera Woh Matlab Nai Tha. In a chat with Rinku Ghosh, Kher shares his views on theatre, on how Government institutions need blood transfusion and forecasts the future of the country is very bright DECEMBER 2015 / EXOTICA

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ENCOUNTER

Q

Your play Mera Woh Matlab Nai Tha is set in Delhi and yet it became the last destination of your ongoing tour. Why? We wanted to stage it in Kamani Auditorium because the play deals with my nostalgia of being around Mandi House, Bhagwan Das Road, National School of Drama and Shri Ram Centre. After we opened the play, we had to go on a two-month tour to America.

It feels great to be here and do a play which is set in Delhi. I think the audience has a great time because even though the play is about my and Neena’s (Gupta) characters, it is also about first love, laughter, sadness, nostalgia and pain which I think all of us go through. People see glimpses of their life being performed on stage. And the strange thing was that Neena is from Chandni Chowk and the story about these two people in love starts from Chandni Chowk. Rakesh Bedi (director) is from Delhi and I’ve spent four important years of my life here as a NSD student.

Q

The play is about the delicacy of a relationship looked back at in a changing world. In today’s digital society, how do you think such plays can connect us to the core of emotions?

No matter how much we may advance in our thought process but at the core, we deal with emotions that are there. Those nine emotions will have to be experienced. Luckily, the body

‘ANYBODY WHO HAS FALLEN IN LOVE ONCE WILL IDENTIFY WITH THIS PLAY. I ALWAYS WANT TO PERFORM PLAYS WHICH PEOPLE CAN RELATE TO’

ENCOUNTER and mind are not as mechanical as the applications or appliances we use.

Also, closure is something which we don’t give to a lot of relationships and that is the most important thing. We fall in love and again fall in love. It’s not like you fall in love once and life stops. We keep falling in love because it also gives us a sense of self-worth.

The story revolves around the meeting in Lodi Garden of former lovers Preetam Singh Chopra and Hema Roy (Neena) to reassess each other and give a closure to their unrequited love of 35 years. Hema, we come to know, is to move to the UK permanently and seeks a meeting, not for a reunion but to give a “clean chit” to a man who circumstance proved had let her down but for whom her faith was unwavering, believing he must have had a reason for doing so. The play works only because of these self-probes into the recesses of the mind of two people who are refreshing with their open admission of frailties and their abiding soul-seated understanding of each other.

The leads then embark on an emotional recounting of their lives on the shared space of a park bench and then slip into the easy familiarity of a well-worn couple who can scan, scratch and comfort each other, down to their deepest, ugliest crevices, and rescue each other back. Something that eluded them in their compromised marital lives. As a production house (Actor Prepares), we wanted to make this into a spectacular and a modern production. So we shot a few portions on film which are projected on the screen as flashbacks. We were very lucky that Neeraj Pandey, who is a director and also a friend, decided to direct these portions for us.

It is a very rich production in the sense that it does not undermine the sensibility of an audience.

It is not only rich in content but is eye-pleasing. It is a brilliantly written play and some of the lines are really amazing. Identification is one of the most important things. You may make a spectacular play with the latest digital effects but that play stays with you only while it’s on. This

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ENCOUNTER THEATRE IS ALSO MUCH MORE REFLECTIVE. THERE IS A VERY BEAUTIFUL LINE IN THE PLAY WHERE THE TWO LAUGH ABOUT SOMETHING AND MY CHARACTER SAYS KYA DIN THE WOH, AAJ BHI UN DINO KO YAAD KARTA HOON TOH KUCH TEER SE CHUBHTE HAIN. TO THIS, NEENA'S CHARACTER ASKS WHY AND I RESPOND WITH ONE OF MY FAVOURITE LINES, KYUNKI YAAD KARNE PAR BEETA HUA SUKH BHI DUKH HI DETA HAI

play stays with people for a week or at least ten days because it makes them go back to their lives.

Whether you are 18 or 80, you started with somebody. It made me think of my first relationship and what she must be doing now. In today’s time, you have Facebook and you can find about your lost love. Also, the initial euphoria of love, expectations, jealousy and possessiveness has died down. You’ve lived your life and you meet as two people who are now worldly-wise and don’t easily feel jealous or insecure.

Q

Did you choose the story for theatre because it is more thought-provoking?

It absolutely is. The only problem with theatre is that it does not reach a larger audience as cinema does. But direct confrontation or interaction with the audience is much more effective. We have become less communicative and that’s why we, at

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times, also think on behalf of the other person. We are having conversations with the other person and the dialogues are also written by us from the other individual’s point of view.

Theatre is much more reflective. There is a very beautiful line in the play where the two laugh about something and my character says “Kya din the woh, aaj bhi un dino ko yaad karta hoon toh kuch teer se chubhte hain” (“When I think of those days today, they pierce me like an arrow)” to which Neena’s character asks why and I respond with one of my favourite lines, “Kyunki yaad karne par beeta hua sukh bhi dukh hi deta hai” (“Even remembering happiness breeds melancholy).”

In fact, when four years ago I met Rakesh in Manali and told him that I was looking for a new play, he told me he’d written one and could narrate it to me. I asked him about the working title. He responded Mera Woh Matlab Nai Tha and

ENCOUNTER

I immediately said that I liked 90 per cent of it. I realised that this line is mostly used by men since they are always beating around the bush and never say what they need to say. Women won’t use this often because they know what they want to say. I thought it was a very cheeky and real title and, of course, when he read out the play to me, I thought it was phenomenal. After a very long time, an original play has come up. Since we were also the producers of the play, we all worked on it, developed it and thus the production grew together. Also, we’ve done it at a stage where all three of us are a little confident about ourselves as performers. We don’t want to prove anything to the world but just do good work.

Q

We get to hear a lot of theatre producers say that there are takers in big cities and the demand is always for comedy...

I don’t blame people because they come to get entertained. The same goes for cinema. You don’t want to go and see the misery. Sometimes theatre tends to go into the darker side of human relationships or behaviour. But this is a great mixture of humour and sometimes with humour you can convey much more serious things. People also have to first like it. I feel that it is very important for the play to commercially do well for theatre to flourish. The three of us have a certain amount of sensibility that we will not do something which is shallow. In that sense, Mera Woh Matlab Nai Tha is a production which is not only serious but also has its fun moments.

Theatre should be like life because in life, we laugh and at the same time, we would cry or get angry. Every playwright has written a play in a certain frame of mind. The play will make you go through various emotions.

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ENCOUNTER

Q

So as a producer, you don't feel the pressure to make a show run?

I do theatre for joy. I like to do plays which can be popular and, at the same time, don’t question the aesthetic sense of the audience. But I’ve dealt with my life and career in a certain manner, I would like to be that responsible person and an actor to not underestimate my audience or give them cheap thrills.

Q ‘I DO THEATRE FOR JOY. I LIKE TO DO PLAYS WHICH CAN BE POPULAR AND AT THE SAME TIME DON’T QUESTION THE AESTHETIC SENSE OF THE AUDIENCE. BUT I'VE DEALT WITH MY LIFE AND CAREER IN A CERTAIN MANNER, I WOULD LIKE TO BE THAT RESPONSIBLE PERSON AND AN ACTOR TO NOT UNDERESTIMATE MY AUDIENCE OR GIVE THEM CHEAP THRILLS’

Do you also agree with the notion that theatre can only be done in metropolitan cities?

That is not true at all. There are no small cities left in today’s time. When I used to live in Shimla, it was a small town but now it is an overcrowded, concrete jungle.

Smaller towns are much more forward, communicative and we’ve become a small village now. We have great audiences in smaller places and we want to explore that. The smaller audience, at times, have much more etiquette than those in the metropolitan cities. Here people come to watch plays because it is fashionable.

Smaller towns are majorly on our agenda.

Q

You have been an alumni of NSD and headed it as well. Where is NSD headed today?

Government institutions need blood transfusion. There are certain professions like dance, singing, performing arts, which need dedication rather than demand for equal rights. If you want to be extraordinary, you have to do a little extra.

It also happens that when we go to our old school or college, we would always feel that our time was much better because our memories of that time are stronger. But certainly, NSD needs to market itself. You cannot be in 2015 and think what you were doing in 1967 is the

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ENCOUNTER right way of going about things. It needs to cultivate writers since there are no original plays. It has fallen into a trap of monotony. Look at the talent it produced â&#x20AC;&#x201D; from Manohar Singh, Surekha Sikri, Om Puri, to Naseeruddin Shah and Ebrahim Alkazi (former NSD director).

You need a person whom you can respect as the director of the institution because he is involved in the day-to-day functioning and he is the best teacher. He has to bring in the discipline. No art form can function without discipline. I run an acting school where people in the beginning would feel they can come to class whenever with their mobiles and cups of tea. But we run the school as a gurukul from 8:30 am to 6:30 pm where you canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t use your mobiles or come in late. That is the only way to learn.

When I opened my drama school, I was still the chairman of NSD but I left it thinking it was a clash of interest.

I wanted to run my school the way Alkazi did, so we are all mini-Alkazis.

Sometimes, when I would pick litter in front of the students, it would remind me of him because he used to do that and it was the best way to embarrass us.

Theatre is not just about speaking dialogues, you need to have your aesthetic sense at its peak.

Q

NSD has also become a manufacturing house for talent which straightaway goes to TV production houses...

The stereotypes have arrived and we must break it. People would say that if a person is carrying a jute bag and has a beard then he must be from Mandi House. We have to come out of that. I also want to say that even if today Anupam Kher does a bad play, the

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ENCOUNTER audience may come for one or two shows, but it won’t if the play is not good.

Q

How do you think talent has evolved over the years?

Your generation was more into literature and came with a certain understanding. How would you rate students today?

I think people now are more talented because they are much more aware. Also, today’s generation is smarter than us. They come across as irreverent but they are far more honest than us. They will say it on your face if they don't like something. We had the pre and post-Independence blues and our parents taught us to be diplomatic. I feel the future of this country is very bright because the youth is very right. When they come, they come with a certain confidence which we had to build. They are already confident and can talk to you straightaway. Today, it is very easy to get information but information turns into knowledge only by going through life.

Q

You mentioned Alkazi and that he was such a luminous head of NSD. A lot of institutions need such people. Unfortunately, the FTII chairman's appointment says otherwise...

I have made it very clear about the appointment of Gajendra Chauhan that he was absolutely the wrong choice for an institution like that. They shouldn’t have appointed him and if the students were protesting, then they should’ve taken that into consideration.

The point is that when I take my chairman’s name, you should be able to think of somebody from Indian cinema if not world cinema.

My only issue was that the strike should've finished earlier because the loss is of the students. The chairman is not teaching, nor is he the administrative head, plus they had the support of the entire country. After five-seven days, they should’ve changed the way of protest but attended their classes since their parents have really gone out of their way to pay for their courses.

Q

What is your take on the intellectual discourse in the country about freedom of expression? Why this categorisation as left-leaning or rightist instead of a pragmatic, healthy debate?

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Unfortunately, what has happened is that politics has gone into intellectualism as well.

I believe that what applies to my home also applies to my country. I cannot have double standards. If tomorrow you have a problem at home or one of your family members is unhappy because he thinks the atmosphere is intolerant, he can go to the head of the family or any other member and tell them that there is an issue which needs to be discussed. If that member says I don’t want to speak with you, then you have a reason to walk out of the house. If you walk out of the house without discussing it, then you are questioning the agenda of the people.

These people (artists who returned their awards) are very eminent but they should’ve approached the Prime Minister saying that we think there is total mayhem or intolerance in the country and we want to talk to you about it. If he said no, then they should’ve returned their awards but none of them approached.

The biggest example is Munawwar Rana (poet).

Rana said on TV that if the PM would like to meet him, then he’d meet him too. When we went to meet the Prime Minister, we were shocked when he told us that he sent a PMO official to ask Rana to meet him.

The time had been fixed but he refused to come. That is also a little disturbing.

Look at Anish Kapoor (British-Indian sculptor who said India is being ruled by ‘Hindu Taliban’).

During a news show, I told him that you don’t even live in this country and have taken refuge outside and you're talking about intolerance in India? Why I got upset and angry was because Arundhati Roy goes all over the world and only talks about horrible things in India.

When it comes to returning the award because of intolerance in the country, she returns her Best Screenplay award and not her international Man Booker Prize citing intolerance in Syria. My power is that I see through their lies and my power is that I am sticking to the truth. My grandfather used to say that when you tell the truth, you don’t have to remember it. People who are pretending to be tolerant are most intolerant.

Returning an award is an act of intolerance in itself. The President told us that the award is not given by the Government, it is given by the nation.

PHOTOS: PANKAJ KUMAR

ENCOUNTER

TODAY’S GENERATION IS SMARTER THAN US. THEY COME ACROSS AS IRREVERENT BUT ARE FAR MORE HONEST. THEY WILL SAY IT ON YOUR FACE IF THEY DON'T LIKE SOMETHING. WE HAD THE PRE AND POST-INDEPENDENCE BLUES AND OUR PARENTS TAUGHT US TO BE DIPLOMATIC. THE FUTURE OF THIS COUNTRY IS VERY BRIGHT AS THE YOUTH IS VERY RIGHT.

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TAXIING IN THE CLOUDS

HIGHFLIER TRACEY CURTIS TAYLOR is following Amy Johnsonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s steps and flying from Britain to Australia. In a heartfelt conversation with SHRABASTI MALLIK, she shares how she had to work three jobs to finance her pilot training

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HIGHFLIER

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t was in the year 1930 that Amy Johnson became the first woman to fly solo from Britain to Australia. Since then, there have been numerous women pilots, but none courageous enough to undertake a flight quite like Johnson’s. None, until Tracey Curtis Taylor that is. On October 1, 2015, Tracey boarded her 1942 Boeing Stearman named Spirit of Artemis from Britain with the aim of walking in Johnson’s footsteps. Her goal is to reach Sydney by early January 2016, by when she would cover 23 countries and make just about 50 refuelling stops, all within 14 weeks.

At 53, she doesn’t look a day older than a lady in her mid 30s.

She has been flying for 30 years and it took her just as long to prepare for this exciting journey. There was a time when Tracey could not join the Air Force and had to work three jobs to finance her flying training. She is a qualified instructor but is apprehensive to call herself a teacher. “I am not sure if I am a great teacher,” she laughed, “but I love flying open cockpit planes and this flight is the culmination of my life in the air.”

It all started in 2009 when she was asked what she wanted to really do with her life. “I said I wanted to fly across Africa, which I did in 2013 in my vintage biplane Spirit of Artemis”, she said, looking resplendent in a gorgeous Banarasi saree, presented to her by Taj Khazana. That flight really celebrated the achievements of a female pilot called Lady Mary Heath, who was the first woman to hold a commercial flying licence in Britain and who set records for altitude in a small plane.

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racey pointed out how Heath’s adventure inspired her to have her own.

“Following that flight, it seemed to make sense to celebrate the achievements of Amy Johnson who is a real inspiration for me. She was the first woman to fly solo from Britain to Australia in 1930. Amy was much more celebrated than Lady Heath but this adventure that I am on is really a homage to all the pioneering female aviators of the golden age during the interwar years. In this modern world, I can’t recreate Amy’s flight, so the purpose of this flight is not just for celebrating achievements of women in aviation but also the role of women in engineering and other fields. I hope this flight can inspire more women to follow their dreams.”

“For instance, in India men are generally considered superior to women. In Jordan, where I stopped by for a night, I saw that a lot of girls are highly educated, but at 21, they are married off and suddenly disappear off the radar. Back home in the UK, we have this raging debate on unequal pay,” she said.

Tracey’s first lesson was when she was 16 years old and that changed her life. The 1965 film Those Magnificent Men in their Flying Machines intrigued her interest. Her passion to learn more took her to New Zealand where she learnt to fly. “There, I took my maiden flight and it is such a beautiful place to be — up in the skies.”

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‘I AM PASSIONATE ABOUT VINTAGE AIRCRAFTS — IT IS OLD FASHIONED ROMANTIC STICK AND RUDDER FLYING’

HIGHFLIER

TRACEY FLEW ACROSS AFRICA IN 2013 IN HER VINTAGE BIPLANE SPIRIT OF ARTEMIS

Taj Hotels, Resorts and Palaces are lending support to Tracey along the way as the global hospitality partner. Tracey is following Amy’s route as closely as possible but so far she has avoided areas like Syria and Iran. “We’re now tracking her across India and on through Asia. Amy ended her flight at Darwin but I am flying onto Sydney,” she shared.

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ecalling the month and a half that she has been flying, she said that Istanbul was her first major stop. “But in a way, Romania became our first big stop as poor weather held us up unexpectedly in Bucharest for a number of days. I fly by eye sight, so low clouds and fog mean that I can’t fly. At one point, I had to make an emergency landing in a cow paddock. I almost gave a mushroom picker a heart attack,” she recounted, laughing uncontrollably.

According to Tracey, she is an aviator in the old fashioned sense of the word. “Flying vintage is thrilling,” she said. Her aircraft, a 1942 Boeing Stearman, was completely restored by 3G Classic Aviation in Hungary during 2012-13. It has a Lycoming 680 radial engine with 300hp, is fitted with extra fuel tanks in the top, has a top altitude of 10,000 feet and a cruise of 90mph.

Tracey named it Spirit of Artemis inspired by the Spirit of St Louis, the plane flown by American aviator Charles Lindbergh on the first solo flight from New York to Paris and the wonderful and iconic Spirit of Ecstasy or The Flying Lady as it is known in America.

She told us that she had always wanted to do the flight in a Boeing Stearman rather than a Tiger Moth (Johnson’s plane). “I am passionate about vintage aircraft — it is an old fashioned romantic stick and rudder flying. I don’t have any instruments to help me fly a modern aircraft. It is much more fun to fly vintage and Spirit of Artemis is a classic,” she added.

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uring her brief stay in India, Tracey had the privilege to interact with female fighter pilots from both the Indian and Pakistani Air Forces.

She glowed with amazement as she said, “I am impressed. The military is such a good route to learn to fly but I wasn’t able to join the Air Force when I was young. I don’t buy the idea that it’s too expensive or difficult — it has always been hard and I worked three jobs to finance my flight training. I wish there were more women in aviation but perhaps it’s perceived as too dangerous. I hope by re-telling the story of pioneers like Amy Johnson, we can inspire a new generation.

Nearly a century on, it’s still a story that has a place.”

For all those looking forward to learn everything about Tracy’s adventure, take heart. She is penning down her experiences of the flight in a journal. “I’d love to tell the story from my perspective.

It is very much a spiritual and emotional journey for me, and I love reading, so I hope I can write a book about this flight,” she wrapped up.

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VOYAGE

The eternal

sunshine compassionate mind of a

Pagodas at sunrise, Bagan, Myanmar

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India has realised the contemporary importance of the fact that much of the culture of Asia is based upon Indian roots. In the past, since Independence, we have been preoccupied with learning Western culture and becoming modern.

Therefore, we have ignored and even forgotten our strong cultural connections and contribution to the whole of Asia Text & photos by BENOY K BEHL

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ne of the seeming miracles in the story of man is the spread of ideas, across the barriers of formidable mountains, vast oceans and national boundaries.

The warm acceptance of concepts from distant lands goes to underline the deep similarity of human nature and aspirations everywhere. One of the greatest examples of the dissemination of philosophical and artistic ideas is the spread of Buddhism from the Indian subcontinent to the many countries of Asia.

(We must remember that these ideas spread entirely without the use of the sword).

The concept of samsara, of maya and mithya, the illusory nature of the material world around us, was crystallised in the Upanishads by the 8th or 9th century BCE. The high purpose in life was to be able to see beyond the veils of illusion, to the eternal truth. Persons who were able to achieve this were known as Buddhas or Enlightened Ones and Tirthankaras or Victors over the Fear of Death.

Over the next 2,000 years, this vision of life and of a path to escape from the web of maya, spread to the many countries of Asia. It pervaded the culture of present-day Sri Lanka, Myanmar, Thailand, Laos, Vietnam, Indonesia, Nepal, Bhutan, Afghanistan, Tibet, Central Asia, China, Korea and Japan. The northernmost frontiers to which this philosophic view of life travelled were Buryatia in Siberia and Mongolia.

Today, India has realised the contemporary importance of the fact that much of the culture of Asia is based upon Indian roots. In the past, since Independence, we have been preoccupied with learning Western culture and becoming modern. Therefore, we have ignored and even forgotten our strong cultural connections and contribution to the whole of Asia.

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VOYAGE INDONESIA ince ancient times, great sea-faring ships carried trade goods between Indonesia, India and China. Archaeological remains in Indonesia have confirmed close interactions with India which existed over 2,000 years ago.

In the first millennium, Chinese pilgrims travelled by sea and land to the holy places of Buddhism in India. When they used the sea route, they spent much time in Indonesia, which had great ports. They have written considerably about the Indonesia of that time. Hinduism existed here in early times and Buddhism flourished from the 7th century onwards. Till today, the great epic of ethics, the Ramayana is the most important cultural tradition of Indonesia, even among the Muslims. It may have arrived here by the 5th century. The Embassy of Indonesia in Washington DC has in front of it a massive and beautiful statue of Saraswati.

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Asean, Ramayan Ballet, Yogyakarta, Indonesia

Depiction of sophisticated sea-going sailing ship, 8th-9th century relief, Borobudur Stupa, Indonesia

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VOYAGE THAILAND ince the 1780s, numerous temples have been made and renovated in Bangkok. In Thailand, it is the divine responsibility of the king to maintain the Buddhist religion and people continue to practise its gentle and compassionate traditions.

Their lives are permeated by the desire for the spiritual search. The Ramayana, or Ramakien, is also at the heart of the culture of this country, which is ruled by king Rama IX.

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(Top) Wat Maha That, end-14th century, Ayutthaya, Thailand. (Bottom) Seated Buddhas, Wat Chawattanaram, 17th century, Ayutthaya,Thailand

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VOYAGE MYANMAR yanmar was a great crucible of Buddhist influences and art which came to it over the centuries. At the end of the first millennium, Myanmar had a deep and direct relationship with the centre of Buddhist philosophy, at Bodhgaya in India. In fact, in the 11th century, the king of Myanmar restored the Mahabodhi temple at his own expense. He also made replicas of the Mahabodhi temple at his own capital of Bagan, one of the most glorious Buddhist sites of Asia. Inside the pagodas are paintings and beautiful Buddhas made from the 11th to the 18th centuries.

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CAMBODIA he Hindu and Buddhist sculptures of Cambodia, from the 6th to the 8th centuries, are unrivalled for their sheer beauty and excellence. While the kings primarily

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worshipped Hindu deities, much Buddhist art was also created.

In the early 12th century, King Suryavarman II created one of the greatest Hindu temples of all time, the Angkor Wat. It was dedicated to Vishnu and was later also used for Buddhist worship. The temple has a magnificent relief carved everywhere.

The open corridor of the first storey has more than a kilometre-and-a-half of such narrative relief, over six feet high.

In the 13th century, King Jayavarman VII built the greatest Buddhist complex in Cambodia at his capital Angkor Thom. The face towers here have became a universally-recognised symbol for Angkor. The faces look in the four directions, symbolising the universal benevolence of the Bodhisattva Lokeshvara. The Bayon, at the centre of Angkor Thom, is the kingâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s own sacred templemountain. It is one of the most magnificent monuments of Buddhism.

(Left) Buddha, Mural, Loka Hteik Pann Pagoda, 12th cent., Bagan, Myanmar.

(Right) Buddhist sculptures of Cambodia

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VIETNAM outh and Central Vietnam have many Hindu and some Buddhist temples. These were made between the 7th and 13th centuries. The museum at Danang, in Central Vietnam, has numerous sculptures, which show a glorious history of art.

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LAOS n the centre of the peninsula of Southeast Asia is the country of Laos. The people here are deeply religious and Theravada Buddhism is the basis of their culture. Monks are deeply venerated and there are almost 5,000 temples.

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Most men in Laos live for some part of their lives in the monasteries to imbibe Buddhist ethics and a compassionate vision of the world.

Laos is a scared land, where ancient traditions, such as the daily giving of alms to monks, continue till today. The society believes it to be its responsibility to look after the well-being of these renouncers, who have given up the ways of the world.

The town of Luang Prabang is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Wat Xiengthong was built around 1560 and is a classic example of the graceful architectural style of Luang Prabang.

Luang, Vientiane, Laos

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VOYAGE JAPAN he sixth century Siddham script is preserved in Japan, though we do not use it in India. Beejaksharas of Sanskrit in this script are regarded as holy and are given great importance. Each deity has a Beejakshara which is venerated by the people, even though most of them cannot read it.

Japan is a country which has very actively preserved various forms of Buddhism which came to it from India, through China and also through the Hindu kingdom of Champa in Vietnam. Most people are not aware that at least a score of Hindu deities are very actively worshiped in Japan. In fact, there are hundreds of shrines to Saraswati alone. There are innumerable representations of Lakshmi, Indra, Brahma, Ganesha, Garuda and other deities. In fact, deities we have practically forgotten in India, such as Vayu and Varuna, are still worshipped in Japan.

Many links in the development of Vajrayana Buddhism can be found in a study of Japanese Buddhism. Today’s Himalayan Buddhism is of a later development and has lost the typical “havan” or “homa.” I was delighted to find and to record the continuance of the tradition of “homa” in some of the most important Japanese Buddhist sects, who call it “goma.” Sanskrit sutras are also chanted on the occasion and it is much like the ritual fire we are familiar with.

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INDIA AND ASIA ur relationship with the other countries of Asia is far closer than Indians seem to be aware of. It is time to understand this and to build upon it. It is time, in fact, for the world to learn from the peaceful and civilised outlook, which is rooted in ancient India and in the culture of the countries of Asia. It is about time to stop destroying ourselves and the world around us, through unthinking and uncaring commercialism.

People of “modern” outlook need not be concerned that looking to ancient culture will lead

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Hawan or Homa, called Goma in Japan, Takahata Fudo Temple, Tokyo

to less economic development. In fact, culture provides the discipline, meaning and concentration in life, which makes us truly successful in all that you do. What is more, it also leads to good health and happiness.

In the Asian countries, Buddhism is flourishing in all its facets. Here, technology and transcendence are living together. The deep-rooted spirit of Buddha’s teachings energises the Asian people. Buddhist temples are numerous and vast numbers of people visit them every day. Besides the Buddha, so many ancient Indian deities and practices are preserved in these temples. An Indian, therefore, feels quite at home almost anywhere in Asia.

India has a vast Buddhist heritage, of sites related to the life of the Buddha, as well as sites and art related to the development of all schools of Buddhism. We have thousands of important Buddhist sites in our country, many of which have

VOYAGE

been largely forgotten. Maharashtra alone has more than 800 rock-cut Buddhist caves, each one of them a remarkable achievement, carved out of the hard rock of the Western Ghats. The excellence of art and richness of the heritage of Buddhism contained in these caves staggers the mind. The first Buddhist mandala of the world is

found in Kanheri Caves, on the outskirts of Mumbai. The earliest depiction of the 11-headed Avalokitesvara is in the same caves. These depictions are of the 5th and 6th centuries, long before such images are seen anywhere else.

There are more than a 100 very early and important Buddhist sites in Andhra Pradesh.

The oldest Buddhist cave of the world is at Guntupalli in Andhra Pradesh and is of the 3rd century BC. New finds of the highest order Buddhist art are taking place in excavations in the state, even till today.

Gujarat has numerous important Buddhist caves of the early period. The Buddhist heritage of Orissa is rich and extensive. Chhattisgarh and Tripura have Buddhist stupas of considerable importance. The worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a most important Buddhist heritage is located in Bihar, Uttar Pradesh and Madhya Pradesh. Jammu and Kashmir is home to exquisite Buddhist art and early monasteries.

Not all the other countries in the world put together can compare with India in terms of the extent, richness, importance and artistic quality of Buddhist heritage. However, this is not wellknown to the world. If we highlight this, we will generate deep goodwill towards India in all nations who follow Buddhism. The aim should be a clear cultural leadership for India in Asian countries. â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Benoy K Behl is a film-maker, art-historian and photographer who is known for his tireless and prolific output of work over the past 36 years.

He has taken over 46,000 photographs of Asian monuments and art heritage, made 132 documentaries which are regularly screened at major cultural institutions worldwide

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ASTROTURF

perfect Future 90 EXOTICA / DECEMBER 2015

ASTROTURF

Armed with YouTube channels, apps and fancy software, new-age fortune-tellers are selling everything from self-created prediction techniques and ancient healing therapies to energy products by RITU PANDEY

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&D labs, call centres, franchise hubs, seminars, PR executives... No, we’re not talking Misson to Mars. What we’re referring to is Mars and beyond.

Planets, energies, chakras... and all that make up the multi-crore industry called futuregazing. Karma and the esoteric mumbo jumbo were always fascinating realm. Monthly and daily forecasts filling up newsprint and heavily made-up fortunetellers doling out crazy remedies on TV just gave a fancy upgrade to the card-picking parrot cliche. The playing field that has since been levelled now calls for constant reinvention, innovation and repackaging by self-annointed Jyotishacharyas and Jyotish Martands to stay saleable. Little wonder things have now gone beyond horoscopes, palm lines, tarot cards and making predictions into what can create an impression of “holistic living.”

IT’S ABOUT MONEY, HONEY ith one entire hall devoted to an R&D lab, a call centre, a franchise hub and a seminar and workshop space full of clairvoyants, Lal Kitab and its creator Dr GD Vashishth were the highlight of Nakshatra, the annual gathering of the fortune-teller community in New Delhi. And there was no dearth of visitors willing to pay `3,500 for the book that promises insights into one’s past, present and future lives.

“People today are aware of a lot of different things, more willing to experiment and also to spend.

So the upwardly mobile, who might be disinterested in horoscopes, would jump at the prospect of a coffee cup or wine reading. Others willing to spend prefer ancient techniques that appear more authentic and believable,” says Neera Sareen who specialises in things fancy like Herb Reading, Colour brain reading, Coffee cup, Tea leaf and Wine reading as well as ancient practices like Moksha Pata and Rune reading. “For `1,100, my readings at public events are just a teaser. The complete programmes costs above `25,000 and are offered in packages over several sessions at my office,” explains Sareen.

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PHOTOS: SANJEEV KUMAR

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ASTROTURF

TECH THAT nterestingly, Vedic astrology, which has generated much heat for long, has also taught aspiring oracles a practical lesson — prefixing Vedic to any ingenious idea can make it sound genuine. So Vedic cards could be an Indian version of Tarot card game or just the card-picking parrot trick reinvented but Umang Taneja insists the technique is his “invention.” This set of 72 cards include 12 cards of the zodiac, 12 of Divinity and 48 cards of Vision. “The cards pulled out reveal the psychological state of a person and are used to suggest a solution to that dilemma,” he adds.

Taneja teaches Vedic Card reading to those keen on taking it up professionally and even has a Youtube channel for the purpose. Vashisth, on the other hand, has an App called “I can Win.” Technology, it appears, has given a whole new dimension to the soothsayer’s job making it not just easy but also multi-pronged. IT firms like Jaipur-based Parashara create toolkits or software such as Vedic Vastu, Anka Jyotish, Sri Muhurta

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and Vedic Gems for different purposes. Along the way, the new-age panditji has also realised the potential of the social and mass media and has acquired the gadgetry to master the game. Its biggest example is Vashisth and his Lal Kitab which are a phenomenon solely due to the marketing blitzkrieg on TV channels.

CREATE A NICHE he new-age clairvoyant has also understood the importance of having a USP, a niche. So if Mumbai-based VK Bajpai specialises in finance astrology, Delhi’s Manoj Jain practises what he calls “medical astrology.” Says he, “In India, marriages are fixed by matching the horoscopic gunas of the boy and the girl. My assessment is that matching of the planetary positions of people is as important as matching their gunas. Mismatched planetary positions of people often lead to problems in health, finance as well as the personal lives of

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people. When the damage is done, people come to me for astrological solutions to these problems, primarily medical. Women who can’t conceive, who have a history of miscarriages, men with a history of hypertension and other severe ailments.”

“Course correction, remedies and healing for just about anything under the sun more than ever has become an integral part of fortune-telling,” says Chandigarh-based Aalok Sood, a Water and Breathing Therapist and a Mantra healer.

MARKET MATRIX nd in a constantly shrinking world, why must distance impede crystal-gazing?

Ludhiana-based Dr Ravinder Sharma offers distance analysis and remedies to Vaastu problems. “I look the address and the map of a place and photos of the people who live there and then suggest Vaastu solutions. But rectifying Vaastu problems can be expensive at times. For that I have corrective energy products based on Vedic and scientific Vaastu.”

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Charms, talismans, prescription gemstones and healing products is a market that’s only growing.

Four years ago Delhi-based brand Dijyo started manufacturing healing mantra pendants and has since diversified into other products sans a retail outlet. Rekha Nath, its owner, hits the nail on its head with her remark. “Problems and spirituality are interlinked and astrology-related spiritual products make for a market that needs no hard sell. Increasing competition makes it that much more innovationintensive.” Clearly, no one’s shying away from that.

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JAVA In India last month, Starbucks coffee ambassador D MAJOR COHEN spilled some beans on brewing, pairing and tasting its different variants

YOUR DAILY

CAFFEINE INFUSION

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VERANDA BLEND n Latin America, coffee farms are often run by families with their homes on the same land where their beans grow. For decades, we’ve sipped the lightly roasted coffee with these farmers, sitting on their verandas, overlooking the lush beauty of the shrubs in the distance. It took us more than 80 tries to get our Veranda blend right — mellow and flavourful with a nice softness.

FLAVOUR: Mellow and soft COMPLEMENTARY FLAVOUR: Milk chocolate and toasted nuts FOOD PAIRING: Veranda is perfect to go with almond and butterscotch cookies and roasted nuts.

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INDIA ESTATES BLEND (IEB) he historic first coffee from India in the Starbucks World, IEB was introduced in 2013 to celebrate the first anniversary of the brand in India and has all the core characteristics of the coffees sold in the country. Processed with Arabica beans from the coffee estates in Coorg and Chickmagalur, IEB has hints of cocoa like the Veranda coffee, citrus notes like the Kenya blend and ultimate body found in the Sumatra variant.

FLAVOUR: Chocolate and Herbal COMPLEMENTARY FLAVOURS: Chocolate, cinnamon, tarragon, rosemary.

FOOD PAIRING: IEB goes well with basil tomato and mozarella cheese sandwiches as well as chocolate brownies.

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SUMATRA ull-bodied with a smooth mouth feel, lingering flavours of dried herbs and fresh earth, and almost no acidity. Our roasters love transforming these unpredictable beans from dark coral green to tigerorange to a rich, oily mahogany, revealing bold flavours that many of us can’t live without.

FLAVOUR: Earthy and herbal COMPLEMENTARY FLAVOURS: Cinnamon, oatmeal, maple, butter, toffee and cheese FOOD PAIRING: Raisin cookies and Mediterranean focaccia with roast vegetables and oatmeal are great accompaniments to Sumatra.

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JAVA THE RIGHT WAY TO TASTE YOUR BREW Smell. The tongue is only capable of distinguishing four tastes: salt, sweet, bitter and sour. The nose can detect a thousand subtleties.

Slurp. This aerates the coffee by spraying it across your palate and enabling the flavours to reach your nose.

Slurp and ponder. As you taste a coffee, think about where on your tongue is the flavour. Is it hitting the tip and the sides of your tongue? How does the coffee feel in your mouth? What is its “weight” on your tongue?

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SPACES GROWING CONCERNS FOR THE ENVIRONMENT ARE FORCING PEOPLE TO OWN ATTUNED LIVING SPACES. NILANJAN BHOWAL OFFERS TIPS

GETAGREENHOME

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reating a eco-friendly living space is the new fancy. And with enough reason. Rising environmental concerns and growing awareness are forcing people to spend a little extra to create spaces that are in harmony with nature. A few things to keep in mind while doing it.

Structure: AAC blocks (Autoclaved Aerated Concrete) should be used for the external walls and fly ash bricks for the inner walls as both of these are natural insulators of heat and are produced from industrial waste.

Orientation: The longer sides of the plot should be north-south oriented to help it get diffused natural light and not of the direct sun glare. If this canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t be done, then there can be east and westfacing windows which should be either double glazed or have a balcony covering the length of the building sufficiently.

Openings: Windows should be placed to the extreme north so that they get

SPACES water is sent to the municipal treatment plant where it is treated further.

Judicious use of old building materials: Reuse materials from old buildings such as old chowkhats and bricks in non-critical areas.

Energy: Most of the energy which is consumed in India is to keep the buildings cool. This can be avoided if the envelope of the building is insulated against heat. Using earthen pots in the roof slab helps reduce heat gain. The everyday energy consumption can be reduced using solar panels and heaters.

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TIPS FOR AN EXISTING HOME

maximum light and minimum glare from the sun (in India, the sun is south-oriented). In case this isnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t possible, place the windows in the east and west directions by making the balconyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s projection in such a way that it shadows the window and allows diffused lighting.

Preserve rain water: Rain water from the terrace and balconies should be collected in a tank for kitchen and bathroom use. The excess water can recharge underground water level. Waste water should be chemically or organically treated and reused for plants.

Waste Management: Sewage should not be released directly into the municipal lines. Installing an STP (Sewage Treatment Plant) on site does the first level of treatment. After the treatment, the

o Reduce Energy Consumption: Replace simple light fixtures with LED and CFL ones. All appliances used should have a 5 star rating as they conserve energy. Solar panels for generating electricity can also be installed but the process is a little cumbersome.

Terrace: The roof of any building traps the maximum heat as it is exposed to the sun for the longest period. Insulation in the flooring such as vermiculite can be used. Reflective mosaic tile flooring helps reduce heat very effectively.

Landscaping on the roof increases the shaded spaces and brings down the temperature of the building.

Waste Management: Kitchen waste can be used to produce natural compost with the use of a vertical composter. The daily use of this reduces the overall garbage from the building and also provides natural compost for the garden.

Double Glazed windows: If the windows are not facing north, east or west directions, one can have double glazed glasses to minimise the glare and heat.

Water Bodies: If possible one should add water bodies in some form at home to manage the micro-climate of the building.

Shady Trees: Driveway and road should be lined with plants/trees to keep it shaded. Ideally, driveways should be soft-paved with grass pavers and the like to reduce heat.

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DRINKS MAGANDEEP SINGH

Sommelier

Here’s what the crystal ball shows: Gin soars, Japan dethrones Scot monopoly, beer and cocktails get complex and superstar chefs rule the roost

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love year-end pieces. Year after year, they are similar in strain and yet different in their beat. It’s like a new Christmas hit every year, the tune changes but the emotion remains. Now that I am done with my analogies (must include that in my resolutions list) time to move on and look at current and future trends in the world of food and beverages that must be on our hedonistic-things-to-do in the coming year.

GIN: This category has sure taken its time arriving to India but it is one that will definitely fly. It’s a white spirit but one with character. In time its popularity will soar. Trouble is we still don’t have much by way of decent tonic and that somehow, pun intended, spoils the taste.

WORLDLY MALTS: Scotland is done as Japan currently draws all eyeballs for being the most prolific malt producer. While there is certainly hyperbole behind that, it does require one to look at single malts from the rest of the world and see just how good they have gotten over the years. From Iceland to France,

THE NEXT HOP

Italy to India, a good dram isn’t confined by geography anymore and we should resolve to try at least three new countries in the coming year.

SUPERSTAR CHEFS: Gaggan Anand’s eponymous eatery (that of Bangkok number-onein-Asia fame) is slated to open soon in Mumbai and a very talented Garima Arora will bring her France-trained, London-honed and Scandinavianinspired flair to culinary affairs. Resolve to visit that one for sure. In the meantime, the JW Marriott Juhu has made a mark as the only hotel which regularly invites Michelin-starred chefs for pop up restaurants at their property. I have attended two such chef visits and I must say, the food, drink and service were (are) world class. I wish more hotels can repeat this or if not, I resolve to attend the next one at the JW Marriott Juhu.

COCKTAILS: This is a category that for long was relegated to the annals of people who order Bloody Mary for breakfast and maybe a Martini every time a new Bond flick is released. Today cocktails occupy that niche space between wines and spirits, being nuanced and potent at the same time. They talk of as many flavours as Chateau

produce (even barrel ageing!) and the spirits keep getting finer with every released lot. As bartenders graduate to being called mixologists, the time to take cocktails seriously is here and the best of bars will be the ones with the most enchanting of cocktail lists. Resolve to be there when they open.

BEER: From the world of black ties and exquisite cocktails, beer seems like a mighty fall but this category is growing, and how! Today beer is no more a generic barley-brew that we order to avoid complicating our drink; beer in its own right is as much a complex ferment as wine and is being showcased rightly so. From the various styles on the market to the different micro-breweries which are all taking craft-scale industry to a whole new clientele, beer is going to become a popular beverage for those who are particular about their brews and beverages in general. Resolve to try at least five micro-breweries and three different styles of beer and then you can write your own, “Beer is better than…” stand-up routine.

DECEMBER 2015 / EXOTICA

99

SRI SRI RAVI SHANKAR

Spiritual guru

Detachment from happiness and sorrow is the best way to keep equanimity both in fortune and misfortune

True success C

omfort is what every human seeks in life. Most of our life’s activities are because they give us comfort. Why do we need money? Because we want comfort. Any need in any direction boils down to just one word — comfort.

There are many levels of comfort. One is physical — like sitting on the grass, you might think, “Oh, it would have been better if there was a cushion.” The other is mental comfort — this is even more essential. If you have a comfortable home but the mind is not comfortable, you will not be able to sleep even on a comfortable bed.

Another one is emotional comfort — you have everything but if someone close to you doesn’t speak to you or does something that hurts you, then your emotional comfort is gone. Yet another one is spiritual comfort — this is comfort of the soul, total peace, an uninterrupted flow of peace and joy from within.

Comfort means to be yourself.

Where is comfort? Is it in the body? Or in the mind? Actually, it is in a combination of both.

Sometimes, when the body is not comfortable, the

GURUSPEAK

mind is also not comfortable and vice versa. The comfort of the mind is more important than that of the body. The mind is three times more powerful than the body, so mental comfort is thrice as important as physical comfort.

have set a limitation on your self, and whenever you cross your own boundary, you claim success.

Success is ignorance of the power of your self because you assume you can do only so much.

C

ou never say, “I successfully ate a banana!”

When you put a limitation, you are limiting the power of your own self, your own consciousness. Every time you achieve something, you feel proud about it, isn’t it?

Actually, you should feel sorry about it. You are just proud of what you can easily do because you do not know that you can do so much more than what you are proud of. When you are successful, you are proud of it and if you fail, you feel guilty and upset. Both can drag you out of joy, out of the greater potential that you possess.

So the best thing is to surrender to the Divine. If you are successful, so what? It is another happening, another thing that you did and you can do much more. If you couldn’t do something well, then you couldn’t do it, that’s all. This moment, do you wish to do it again? Then have the sankalpa, the intention — “I have to do it!” — then you will make good progress, without feeling guilty, without being judgmental. Having this equanimity both in success and in failure, is what will lead you to real success.

omfort is based on commitment. Other people’s commitment brings you comfort.

For example, the milkman’s commitment to bring you milk gives you comfort. Similarly, your commitment should bring comfort to everyone else. Sometimes people say, “Oh, I am stuck with the commitment so I am unhappy.”

Don’t think every commitment will be smooth. If you’re committed to complete your course, then there is bound to be some rough time in between.

However, commitment can take you across all obstacles; and the greater the commitment, the greater the achievement. The more committed you are, the more will be your capacity and capability to do any work. Commitment is always about something more than what you think you can do.

It’s about stretching your capabilities. You don’t say, “I am committed to drinking a glass of water or walking a kilometre” which you do anyway.

There is much talk about success. Everyone wants to be successful. Ever thought what success is? It’s simply ignorance of your capabilities. You

Y

FITNESS

I STRIKE

A POSE The sun salutation is a simple way to gain from yoga, says KIMAAYA

PRANAMASANA: Stand erect with feet together. Join the palms together in front of the chest in namaskar mudra and breathe slow and steady. This posture helps to induce a state of introversion, relaxation and calmness. It activates the anahata chakra or the energy centre located in the heart region.

t may have made news for all the wrong reasons but Surya Namaskar actually is a complete sadhna in itself. Yogis attest that its combination of asana, pranayama and meditation techniques energises each of the seven chakras (energy centres) of the human body. It is generally practised in the morning before breakfast or in the evening on an empty stomach. The routine consists of 12 forward and backward bending movements that stretch and flex the spinal column. Practising up to six rounds of Surya Namaskar is beneficial.

HASTA UTTANASANA: Stretch both arms above the head, palms facing upward. Start inhaling as you stretch both arms and hold your breath (kumbhak) in this position.

Arch the back and stretch the whole body. This posture stretches the chest and the abdomen and lifts the prana (energy) upwards to the upper part of the body.

PADHASTASANA: Bend forward from the hips until your palms touch the floor on either side of the feet. Start exhaling (rechak) as you bend forward. Exhale fully as you reach the bent position. Avoid collapsing the chest or over-rounding the upper back. This posture massages the abdominal organs and improves digestion. Menstrual irregularities in women are relieved. A healthy flow of blood is sent to the spinal nerves as they are stretched and toned. The hamstring muscles at the back of the thigh and calf muscles are also stretched. Inversion increases blood flow to the brain. The prana is channelised to the lower regions of the body.

102 EXOTICA / DECEMBER 2015

FITNESS ASHWA SANCHALANASANA: Extend the left leg back and drop the right knee to the ground. The right knee is bent up and kept between the palms and the right foot placed flat on the ground. Lift the spine and expand the chest.

Look straight and concentrate at the centre of eyebrows. Start inhaling (poorak) and fill your lungs as you reach the position.

SANTOLASANA: Keep the hands and right foot still and take the left foot back beside the right foot. Keep the body parallel to the floor by strengthening the abs muscles. The legs and arms straighten and the heels come down towards the floor. Bring the head and shoulders towards the knees. Hold the position for about 30 seconds breathing normally.

ASHTANGA NAMASKAR: Gently drop both knees to the ground and slowly slide the body down at an angle as you bring the chest and chin to the ground. Your toes, knees, chest, hands and chin should touch the floor. The buttocks are kept up.

Start by exhaling (bahya kumbhak) and inhale (poorak) as you move to the next posture. This posture develops the chest and strengthens the arms.

PRANAMASANA: Straighten the body and bring the hands in front of the chest.

Resume Posture 1.

Start exhaling as you bring the arms forward. Keep breathing normal in this position.

BHUJANGASANA: Lower the hips while pushing the chest forward and upward with the hands until the spine is fully arched and the head is facing up. The knees and lower abdomen remain above the floor. Start inhaling. Fill the lungs and hold your breath (poorak and antar kumbhak) as you stay in this posture.

Focus your awareness at the base of spine and feel the tension from the forward pull. This pose gives dynamic expansion to the chest and the abdomen, relieving kidney and liver problems.

DECEMBER 2015 / EXOTICA 103

ATLEISURE CULTURE CONNECT [CALENDER OF EVENTS]

MUSIC FESTS 2015 et to cross off the ultimate musical experience from your bucket list? Or lusting over one of the biggest electronic music festivals in Belgium, that is, Tomorrowland’s amazing visual pieces of superb performances by the best artists out there?

The ninth edition of the Sunburn music festival from December 27 to 30 in Goa’s Vagator brings to you another craze-filled lineup of the biggest DJs in the world including David Guetta, Dimitri Vegas and many others.

About 248 hours of music across stages and events including trance, house, electro, techno, drum and bass, psychedelic, experimental – the list is endless and epic.

Y BOOKWORM

MY GITA: DEVDUTT PATTANAIK

A

cclaimed mythologist Devdutt Pattanaik demystifies the Bhagavad Gita for the contemporary reader. His unique approach—thematic rather than verse-by-verse makes the ancient treatise eminently accessible, combined as it is with his trademark illustrations and simple diagrams.

In a world that seems spellbound by argument over dialogue, vivaad over samvaad, Devdutt highlights how Krishna nudges Arjuna to understand rather than judge his relationships. This becomes relevant today when we are increasingly indulging and isolating the self. We forget that we live in an ecosystem of others, where we can nourish each other with food, love and meaning, even when we fight. So let My Gita inform your Gita.

MUSIC FOR THE SOUL [WHAT TO EXPERIENCE] et ready for the third edition of India’s hippest multi-genre music festival — Magnetic Fields — held at Alsisar Mahal in Rajasthan. The 17th century battle hardened palace has been renovated into a luxurious hotel and has been playing host to the fest for three years straight. Apart from the venue’s lush expansive lawns and courtyards that will enchant you with its old world charm and regality, the fest’s impressive line-up of artists from around the world will surely dazzle the music junkies. Held from December 18-20, the line-up includes Ratatat from NYC, Berlin’s Objekt, Mumdance from London and home-grown artists including Sulk Station, Nicholson, Fuzzy Logic, Alisha Batth among many more.

Go get your tickets now!

G

104 EXOTICA / DECEMBER 2015

WANDERLUST [FESTIVALS & HAPPENINGS]

Beach festival: Festa De Diu is the longest beach festival in Asia, spanning across three months in the Union Territory of Diu, from December 2015 to February 15, 2016. With concerts, carnivals, jam sessions and more than 300 artists such as Shreya Ghosal, Vir Das, Indian Ocean and Milind Soman set to perform, this beach festival is the epitome of fun and relaxation.

Get packing!!

ACCESSORIES

The

dazzling effect

Sonal Jindal exhibited her fashion and accessories label, Medusa, bringing in the glitz and glamour to the capital

T

he seventh edition of India's exclusive fashion exhibition, Medusa, took place here recently. The most talked about fashion and accessories lifestyle exhibition by Sonal Jindal drew a large number of fashionistas.

It showcased creations by both established and budding designers like Mynah Designs by Nikhita, Closet Affair by Priyanka Ahuja, Golden Apple by Sonam Sahni, Tanieya khanuja, The Bohemian, Balmain Paris Hair Couture and many more.

Over a 100 fashion designers showcased their latest collections. The exhibition had everything from the hottest accessories, to trendy footwear and apparel.

"We have brought the best of contemporary arts, aesthetics and designs from chosen artisans and craftsmen under a common roof. We brought together some of the diverse range of exhibitors showcasing and offering the very best of fashion and style," said Jindal.

Medusa has emerged as a platform for latest trends in the fashion industry. It is widely regarded as the industry's existing and next big thing, attracting a number of buyers. It promises the clientele will be dazzled by its portfolio which is an intriguing array of traditional and innovative materials and techniques.

DECEMBER 2015 / EXOTICA 105

SIGNOFF

ANTI-SMOG CRUSADES

Y

canister bins outside my apartment — bio-degradable, es, the smog has hit home even as my friend non-biodegradable, E-waste and hazardous waste, green from the tsunami of a deluge in Chennai has blue, yellow and red. Heaven help you if you are sleepyjust managed to connect on a mesh network eyed and mix contents. Some residents decide to lobby for courtesy a social media platform. As I search a compost pit in the huge spread of our premises. A for words, looking for inspiration from the consensus is reached that the pit will be far away from the fresh draught to air my messed up insides, the vapours towers and the club house, so what if it means letting go from my balcony take an ominous shape, hanging like a of a prettyish garden patch. A neighbour has already sealed splayed neanderthal in my bedroom, its pyre-burnt stench a deal with a recycling plant for our biodegradable waste. revolting my insides. Soon my Telegram (yes, housing The club will host papercraft classes for the next six weeks. societies stay connected on this Indian version of WhatsThe rest of us are still poring over reams of Ivy League App simply because it allows supersized groups to broadstudies on converting waste to compost or waste to energy, cast their angst and everything else) beeps. All residents are recycling and reduction of waste. relaying the smog alert and the late walkers get into action.

Everybody compares notes on air filters and their topOne of them actually notices an errant farmer burning of-the-line prices. Meanwhile, I find a solution closer up scrub grass in the open stretches behind the unfancied home. In my verandah to be precise. My readings show rear gate while somebody on 20th floor has used his newly that all you need are three indoor plants to save you. They acquired night vision goggles to trace back the curl of are so good that together they can produce smoke to a garbage pit in a neighbouring enough air to help you survive a closed sector. Turns out that the consciously green by glass bottle! These are the areca palm, the Noida, which tends to follow National RINKU GHOSH money plant and the mother-in-law’s Green Tribunal diktats in the daytime, tongue (also called the bedroom plant because it has the flouts them with abandon post-midnight. The garbage unique capacity to release oxygen at night by converting handlers clearly choose the easy way out, burning up all carbon dioxide). I didn’t know that money plant is quite waste without segregating them or carrying them to their “the specialist” because it works as a filter that removes required pits. In the absence of incinerators and formaldehydes and other volatile chemicals. I knew the composting pits, this tendency is difficult to curb. mother-in-law’s plant as the snake plant with beautiful But as a SMART community, our “save our lungs” braided long green leaves wreathed in yellow. Perhaps its campaign begins at the stroke of midnight. I get the task sharp edges shaped its metaphorical name. of wording a petition to the district magistrate, the Noida We eco-warriors may just represent a particle of an Authority and NGT to take note of and act upon this effort. But imagine if each one of us could be so aware and menace. The warriors set out in their SUVs, scaring the inspired to act in an emergency, what an entire city could farmers out of their wits and hounding out offenders. Late do? Los Angeles had its first real smog attack during nighters are assigned vigilante duties for the next ten days, World War II, a smog strong enough that some people hoping to drill some sense among flagrant vagabonds. suspected a Japanese chemical attack. But it wasn’t until The weekend is a dedicated pooling of resources by the 1975, after continued crusades and activism by laptop army and we devise this cloud of knowledge to Hollywood’s best, that the city cleaned up. We can have make the society air breathable. Thanks to sustained our own Godzilla effort too. efforts by eco-warriors, I now have four clearly marked

106 EXOTICA / DECEMBER 2015

RNI NO. DELENG/2006/18084 POSTAL REGN. NO. DL (C)-01/1151/13-15 Posted at NDPSO on 10th, 11th & 12th of same month Published on 30th of Advance Month

EXOTICA VOL 10 NO 2 DECEMBER 2015

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