Exotica Magazine February 2019

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FROM THE EDITOR

Editor-in-Chief CHANDAN MITRA EDITORIAL BOARD Vice-Chairman & Joint Managing Director Amit Goel Chief Executive Officer Abhishek Saxena 09818600128 EDITORIAL Editor-in-Charge Rinku Ghosh Assistant Editor Saimi Sattar Feature Writer Ankita Saxena Chief Designers Anand Singh Rawat & Satish Jakhmola Production Manager Syed Nawab Raza Staff Photographer Pankaj Kumar SALES & MARKETING Vice President Jetender Rawat 9810404096 General Managers Kumar Gurudutta Jha & Sweety Verma Senior Managers Sofiqul Islam, Madhukar Saxena & Divyesh Kothari Managers Bharat Singh Sajwan, Prabhakar Pathak & Barun Choudhary Media Coordinator Neelu Sharma MUMBAI OFFICE General Manager Devendra Adhikari KOLKATA OFFICE Vice President Suzanna Roy CHENNAI OFFICE Assitant General Manager Kripa Arvind HYDERABAD OFFICE V Sunil Kumar General Manager (Circulation) Rajeev Gautam Printed and published by Chandan Mitra for and on behalf of CMYK Printech Ltd, printed at JK Offset Graphics (P) Ltd, B-278, Okhla Industrial Area, Phase-1, New Delhi-110020 and published at No. 6, Behind Gulab Bhawan, 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; F-31, Sector-6, NOIDA, Uttar Pradesh-201301 Phone: 0120-4879800 & 4879900 Email: exoticapioneer2016@gmail.com

SAVE THE JUNGLE

TALES

of big cats and elephant herds straying into human habitation in search of food and being mauled to death by gruesome methods just keep pouring in. By the time forest officials or the police arrive, if at all they do, the deed is done. If confronted, belligerent villagers dare the officers to act. Outnumbered, enforcers of the law beat a hasty retreat and file a report blaming unknown persons for the murder. Few are prosecuted; leave alone punished. In recent years the supposed man-animal conflict has become a one-sided affair with a variety of wild creatures being regularly bludgeoned to death.

There are two worrisome facets to these developments. First, the much-hyped conservation efforts are being defeated at the grassroots by villagers unconvinced of the need to preserve the country's dwindling wildlife. Second, steady encroachment of animal habitats is resulting in migration out of sanctuaries, enhancing the chances of more frequent confrontations between villagers and animals in desperate search of food.

Even more than encroachment, the disappearance of animal corridors in Uttarakhand, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra and Rajasthan, the construction or expansion of highways running through Reserved Forests and the grant of mining leases in protected forest areas has led to the sharpening of the problem.

However, I believe that our magnificent wildlife cannot be protected without a holistic policy towards environment. For example, if streams in the jungle dry up because of rampant extraction of groundwater and bottling plants being set up at source, the tigers' prey, too, cannot survive. If deer are forced to migrate out of forests or die of thirst, tigers and other predators like leopards would be compelled to move towards human habitation in search of food and water.

If forest cover declines or degenerates, wildlife would find less and less greens to forage and over time their reproductive capacity, too, would be adversely affected. An ecological balance involving forest cover, water sources, prey base for big cats is essential for wildlife to prosper. It is not possible to ensure a significant rise in tiger numbers merely by pumping in funds or relocating some to reserves from which they were eliminated through poaching or inhospitable environs.

How much encroachment can be allowed to builders of housing colonies, shopping malls and entertainment parks in the neighbourhood of our burgeoning new cities? With over 700 resorts in operation just outside the perimeter of Corbett National Park, the discomfort caused to and consequent dislocation of wildlife has assumed serious dimensions. Arguably, decades of neglect and unconcern cannot be reversed overnight. But in the absence of holistic thinking, the tiger, leopard, elephant, deer and even marine and avian species will become critically endangered in the next few years.

[CHANDAN MITRA] Editor-in-Chief

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[p12] Q&A [p28] Human mind can cure anything: Manisha Koirala Travel bug [p34] White world: Skiing Art fair [p46] Sense and sensibility City canvas [p54] The walls speak Fashion files [p60] Just a pop of colour

I N S I D E FEBRUARY 2019 VOLUME 13 NO 04

[p84]

[p28]

COVER: DESTINATION DINING AT THE WESTIN MALDIVES MIRIANDHOO RESORT

Regional cuisine [p70] Begum pasand Smoke screen Clear up the air [p74] Love [p84] Cupid call: Valentine’s day Blithe spirit [p88] Cocktail hour

CONTRIBUTORS Sanjay Jumaani [p77] NUMBER GAME: Count your fate Sri Sri Ravi Shankar [p78] GURUSPEAK: Embrace the other Bharat Thakur [p80] FITNESS: Slow down the clock Kushan Mitra [p82] HOT WHEELS: The tallest boy TOTAL NUMBER OF PAGES 96 INCLUDING COVER

Follow us on:

@TheDailyPioneer

facebook.com/dailypioneer

[p60]

[p88] instagram.com/dailypioneer

OUR PARTNER HOTELS Send us your feedback at exoticapioneer2016@gmail.com; Facebook: www.facebook.com/Exotica-394686670715776

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CUPID CORNERS

COUPLE THERAPY AT MIRIANDHOO

MALDIVES

is every traveller’s dream destination. Whether you are looking for a relaxing holiday, a bit of adventure or an unforgettable romantic escapade, the coral islands, with their sandy white beaches, alluring waves and splendid landscapes are an ideal getaway.

With keen attention to details that make for

those priceless romantic moments, The Westin Maldives Miriandhoo Resort offers private breath-taking views of the ocean to cozy dining outlets, restoring spa therapies and a host of quiet romantic activities. The resort also provides access to a nearby-uninhabited private island — Hulhudhoo — just a short 700 m speedboat trip across the ocean where guests can enjoy a

EXOTICA [12] FEBRUARY 2019

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SHRI JAGAT PRAKASH NADDA Hon’ble Union Minister Health and Family Welfare

ANUPRIYA PATEL

ASHWINI KUMAR CHOUBEY

Minister of State for Health and Family Welfare

Minister of State for Health and Family Welfare

National Health Portal Gateway to Authentic Health Information

www.nhp.gov.in DIGITAL HEALTH INITIATIVES FOR HEALTH PROMOTION BY

“CENTRE FOR HEALTH INFORMATICS” PORTAL/WEBSITES: o NATIONAL HEALTH PORTAL (NHP) o PRADHAN MANTRI SURAKSHIT MATRITVA ABHIYAN o HUM DO (FAMILY PLANNING) o MIS REPORT PORTAL o SWACHTTA PORTAL o NATIONAL IDENTIFICATION NUMBER FOR HEALTH FACILITIES o HEALTH AND WELLNESS CENTRE PORTAL o TREATMENT OF RARE DISEASES

DASHBOARDS: o o o o o

CENTRALIZED DASHBOARD PRADHAN MANTRI SWASTHYA SURAKSHA YOJANA MEDICAL EDUCATION DASHBOARD HEALTH POLICY DASHBOARD NATIONAL PROGRAMME FOR HEALTH CARE OF THE ELDERLY

mHEALTH: o o o o o o o o o o o

mCESSATION PROGRAMME mDIABETES MY HOSPITAL NHP INDRADHANUSH IMMUNIZATION NO MORE TENSION APP INDIA FIGHTS DENGUE NHP SWASTH BHARAT NHP DIRECTORY SERVICES PMSMA MOBILE APP NHP VOICE WEB NHP HEALTH INFORMATION KIOSKS

NHP Toll Free No. 1800-180-1104 https://www.facebook.com/NHPINDIA/

https://twitter.com/NHPINDIA/

https://www.instagram.com/nhp_india/

https://www.youtube.com/NHPINDIA/

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bespoke castaway picnic, with nothing but the sky to watch over you. Few things can set the stage for a romantic interlude like this.

If you are deeply into vows, host your wedding against the backdrop of stunning ocean views, swaying trees, gentle breeze and all the elements you have ever dreamed of. Take a romantic walk along the soft quiet shores and spot turtles nesting on the white sands. Spot exotic marine life like reef sharks, lionfish, manta rays and whale sharks that reside in the Baa Atoll.

Relish authentic Maldivian and Asian street

food with live kitchens at Hawker, one of the unique dining experiences or indulge in a refined Japanese meal at The Pearl, the specialty outlet at The Westin Maldives Miriandhoo Resort.

Every trip to the Maldives includes a close connect with the stunning Indian Ocean. Explore the underwater world while snorkelling, diving, fishing and parasailing. And when all is seen and done, let the Heavenly Spa allow guests to reflect and immerse themselves in the beauty and luxury of nature, while indulging in soulful and revitalising massages.

MAKE THE WORLD GO ROUND

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THE

United States is associated with hedonistic and free expression of an emotion that comes to the forefront in February. There is nothing better than celebrating the day at the Mecca of love. Here are some fun ways to enjoy Valentine’s Day in the country.

LOVERS’ ALOFT: Spend Valentine’s Day at the city of Lovelock in Nevada, otherwise known as the “Heart of Nevada”. People from all over, flock to the small agriculturally driven community of Lovelock each year to follow the ancient Chinese tradition of

locking their love. In the Lover’s Lock plaza in the heart of downtown Lovelock, visitors can purchase a heart-shaped lock and forever lock it to a chain with their soul mate, family member, friend, or anyone else who is important in their life.

GRETNA: It is a destination for couples seeking quickie weddings.

Every year Gretna celebrates Valentine’s Day by conducting ceremonies and renewals of vows over the anvil inside the historic Gretna Green Blacksmith shop. It was started in the 19th century, where an agreeable marrying judge, made the area a destination for couples seeking quickie weddings. A free pedestrian ferry ride delivers visitors from New Orleans to the heart of Gretna’s historic downtown, which is also home to many restaurants and museums that honour the city’s original settlers.

EXOTICA [16] FEBRUARY 2019

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LOVELAND SWEETHEART FESTIVAL & LOVELAND VALENTINE RE-MAILING PROGRAMME: Loveland in Colorado is a place where the annual sculpture shows are held. It is also known worldwide, as the home of the “Valentine Re-Mailing Programme”. Every year, more than a hundred thousand Valentines are packaged inside larger envelopes and sent to Loveland, where volunteers hand-stamp them with Valentine’s verse and send them on to the intended recipients. Beside this, Loveland also celebrates Loveland Sweetheart Festival: Love, Locks, and Lights, that feature Love Lock sculptures in the U S. Attendees can purchase a customisable love lock to lock onto the sculpture.

This year the festival will include the Sweetheart love art gallery, chocolate, beer and wine tastings, Sweetheart city race, mapping projection laser shows, art installations/interactive art displays, balloon send off to remember those loved and lost and much more.

GHOST TOUR OF PHILADELPHIA: Valentine’s Ghost Tour of Philadelphia will celebrate its 10th annual tour this year, a special evening of ghostly tales of eternal love, from the cold-hearted and scandalous to the romantic and passionate. It is a 75-minute candlelight walking tour, that includes stops at haunted burial grounds and historic homes, as well as a tour inside the Powel House, a historic mansion in the heart of Society Hill with a legacy of ghostly activity.

EXOTICA [18] FEBRUARY 2019

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THE LOVE BUG

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IRELAND,

shrouded in myths, legends and a lot of mist, is just the place to serenade your Valentine’s in many a different ways. Here are seven inspiring ideas to help you plan an escape in the land of fairy-tale castles, romantic mythology, spectacular landscapes and the musings of poets, saints and scholars.

BLESS YOUR LOVE AT ST VALENTINE’S SHRINE: There is nothing more special than a visit to the shrine of the patron saint of lovers on Valentine’s Day. A church in Dublin’s Whitefriar Street contains relics (some of the remains) of St Valentine, brought to the city a long time ago. On February 14 every year, there is a Blessing of Rings ceremony.

TAKE A STROLL IN THE HOME OF THE CLADDAGH RING: The Claddagh ring, the quintessential Irish symbol of love and friendship, originates in an old fishing village on the shores of Galway Bay. Stroll around the area with your lover and drop into Thomas Dillon’s in Galway city — the original makers of the Claddagh ring and the oldest jewellers in Ireland. Learn more about the ring’s history, perhaps buy one and maybe even propose.

LIGHT UP YOUR RELATIONSHIP IN A LIGHTHOUSE: Mark the day with a stay in an Irish lighthouse. Try County Donegal’s Fanad Head Lighthouse, voted as one of the most beautiful in the world. It’s in a Gaeltacht (Irish speaking) area on the Wild Atlantic Way and will provide an exquisitely romantic escape with sensational scenery.

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LET YOUR HEART GO ON AT TITANIC BELFAST: Cinema-lovers will remember the scene in Titanic when Leonardo Di Caprio, with arms outstretched, shows Kate Winslet how to fly.

Recreate the famous ‘Jack and Rose’ moment with your beau or belle and grab a selfie at Titanic Belfast, the world’s largest Titanic visitor experience. Or sweep your love down the attraction’s grand staircase before indulging in a Valentine’s Day afternoon tea.

WRITE A MESSAGE IN THE SAND: Declare your love with a message in the sand on Northern Ireland’s most spectacular beach.

County Londonderry’s Downhill Beach is part of a golden seven-mile stretch backed by magnificent cliff scenery, including the romantic Mussenden Temple. Perched right on a cliff edge and offering amazing views of the famous Causeway Coastal Route, the temple is perfect for proposals and can also be booked as a wedding venue.

CUDDLE UP UNDER THE STARS: Finn Lough Resort, close to the shores of Lough Erne in County Fermanagh, boasts unique forest bubble domes that let you spend a romantic night safe and warm under the stars. With 180-degree transparent walls, the domes come with bespoke four-poster beds, comfy armchairs, Nespresso coffee machines, telescopes for admiring the constellations and a breakfast to swoon over.

SPEND THE DAY AT A FAIRY-TALE CASTLE: A fairy-tale destination built in 1867 as a lover’s gift, Kylemore Abbey in County Galway has romance in its very stones. Couples can’t help but admire the gothic romanticism of the architecture, Victorian walled gardens and lush woodland walkways, all steeped in love, legend and history.

A VOLCANO OF EMOTIONS

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SURPRISE

your loved one with a trip to Azerbaijan to celebrate your love and rekindle your romance in the most unconventional way. The city has a spectacular combination of antiquity and novelty perched as it is on the crossroads of Europe and Asia, offering you a completely new experience to embrace your nearest and dearest in a country characterised by love and warmth. Amid Baku’s beautiful settings and vibrant atmosphere, weave in your “forever and after” vows.

ATESHGAH: The fire-worshipping Zoroastrians left their mark at Ateshgah, where the Fire Temple continues to amaze visitors with its spouts of flame. Declare your eternal love for one another for as long as the Ateshgah has been blazing in Baku, Azerbaijan.

EXOTICA [22] FEBRUARY 2019

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YANAR DAG: Amaze your loved one with a trip to the Yanar Dag, which is a site that has been blazing away with a 10-metre wall of flame for centuries.

MUD VOLCANOES: Azerbaijan has about half of the world’s known mud volcanoes — 400 of them! The Dashgil region is wonderfully lonely and atmospheric, unsigned and unfenced.

There’s a spectacular variety of regularly active mud nozzles and a bubbling mud pool.

GOYGOL DISTRICT: Located in the western part of Azerbaijan, Goygol is one of the most picturesque regions of the country. Celebrated in Azerii poetry, paintings and songs, Goygol is the country’s best loved mountain lake, set beneath the dramatic rocky beak of Mt Kyapaz and ringed by thick green forests that turn golden in autumn.

For a relaxing Valentine’s Day treat, there is no better place to be than Goygol.

CHENOT PALACE: Surrounded by the silence and tranquility of the magical pine woods and overlooking the peaceful Nohur lake, the new Chenot Palace Hotel in Gabala represents a new class of health and wellness retreats in the heart of a breath-taking forest. The Chenot Palace Gabala is a perfect getaway retreat, far from the hustle and bustle of congested cities, where you can recharge your batteries.

Azerbaijan is rich in culture, attractions, delicious food, music and wine. One can easily spend three days walking around Baku, which feels like an open-air museum with medieval landmarks and a combination of the Old City and Modern Azerbaijan in one place.

With direct flights to Baku every day and some of the world’s leading hotel chains, it has never been easier to plan a memorable Valentine’s Day for the one that deserves it the most.

BAKU BOULEVARD: Beyond the Inner City, there is no better way to get a feel for Baku’s relaxed, Mediterranean atmosphere than by strolling along the Boulevard, a sweep of Caspian waterfront promenade that forms a gentle arc past the whole length of the central city area. The sweep offers hours of pleasant strolling with ever-changing views around the bay and back towards different sections of the city. Add the Azeri people’s appreciation for good food, art and music — and you’ve got yourself a memorable recipe for romance.

SKIING: The classy resort at Shahdag has firstclass amenities, 14 well-prepared slopes and friendly and accommodating teachers and staff.

For more challenging pistes, try the black runs at Tufandag. Nestled amongst snowy hills, you’re bound to feel time pause and nature conjure magical tricks for a secluded and mesmerising Valentine’s Day.

EXOTICA [23] FEBRUARY 2019

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TRAVEL NEWS

VIVANTA IN KATHMANDU

THE

Indian Hotels Company Limited (IHCL), South Asia’s largest and most iconic hospitality company, is introducing the Vivanta brand in the Himalayan kingdom of Nepal with the opening of Vivanta Kathmandu. This will be the company’s second hotel in the region after Meghauli Serai, a Taj Safaris lodge in Chitwan National Park. Located in the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Patan Darbar Square, the hotel is a perfect gateway to explore the land of yaks and yetis, snow peaks and ancient temples.

“This new venture in Kathmandu will complete the tourist circuit by providing a stopover to UNESCO-listed Chitwan National Park. Nepal offers medieval cities and sacred sites to Himalayan peaks and wildlife safaris, catering to a

multitude of experiences,” said Rohit Khosla, Executive Vice President — Operations, North & West India.

Vivanta Kathmandu houses 110 rooms and is located in the charming Jhamsikhel district. With its enviable setting, urbane rooms and avant-garde restaurants, the hotel is a perfect option for short and long stays. Guests have a choice of distinctive culinary options with Akari, serving pan-Asian cuisine, a rooftop bar, Koko serving bistro-style food, to the whiff of local Newari dishes at Mynt — the all-day diner.

Other facilities include a fitness centre, swimming pool, a spa and world-class concierge services that de-mystify the region’s unique culture and natural splendour.

EXOTICA [24] FEBRUARY 2019

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FLY DIRECT TO WARSAW

DOG MUSEUM RETURNS TO NY

LOT

THE

American Kennel Club Museum of the Dog officially opened its doors in New York City on February 8 at its new location, 101 Park Avenue, just steps away from the Grand Central Station. It houses one of the world’s largest collections of canine fine art.

Located in Midtown Manhattan, the newlydesigned space will house art from famous dog artists such as Sir Edwin Landseer, Maud Earl, Arthur Wardle and many more. It also has a two-storey glass vitrine that encases rare porcelains and bronzes, in addition to a library where users can learn about their favourite breeds. The museum’s first exhibition will be entitled “For the Love of All Things Dog” and combines select works from the AKC’s own collection and that of the Museum.

Spanning two floors with a double height atrium space at the stair, the gallery includes interactive exhibits such as a “Find Your Match” kiosk that takes your photo, aligning its likeness with an AKC-registered dog breed. Additionally, there is a “Meet the Breeds” touch screen table that allows visitors to explore breeds’ features, traits, history and representations in the collection. There are several other digital experiences that bring audiences into the history of the Museum and its mission.

The AKC Museum of the Dog, founded in 1982, was originally housed in The New York Life Building located at 51 Madison Avenue as part of the AKC Headquarters.

Polish Airlines, Poland’s flag carrier, will launch a new non-stop service between Warsaw and New Delhi, beginning September 17. Like all LOT long-haul flights, the new route will be operated by state-of-the-art Boeing 787 Dreamliner five times per week. The announcement was made by LOT Polish Airlines during the Global Aviation Summit in Mumbai.

The new route launch will provide the shortest and most convenient connection from New Delhi directly to the centrally-located hub in Warsaw as well as access to many Central, Eastern and Western European cities. The first flight will commence on September 17 from Warsaw Chopin Airport to New Delhi’s Terminal 3 (with the return flight taking off from New Delhi on September 18).

New Delhi was chosen not without reason as the next LOT destination in Asia. With over 1.3 billion citizens, India is the world’s seventh biggest economy. After Singapore, India is the second centre of direct investment in Asia for Polish entrepreneurs. For Indian businesses, Poland is an important investment market i.e. in the IT sector and a gateway to all countries within the European Union. The new LOT flight will be a key element in strengthening economic ties and developing business relations between the two countries.

The new connection will be operated exclusively by the most modern wide-body aircraft in the world – the Boeing 787 Dreamliner. Each aircraft will feature three class of service – LOT Business Class with seats which recline to the position of a flat bed and a galley akin to one at a top-class restaurant; LOT Premium Economy Class with larger personal space, comfortable seats with footrests, thigh support, cocktail tables and a rich menu, as well as LOT Economy Class with modern seats, personal in-flight entertainment screens and USB sockets, and fresh and diverse international and Indian served aboard.

EXOTICA [25] FEBRUARY 2019

SAY YES TO SEYCHELLES

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OFF

the eastern coast of Africa in the Indian Ocean lies Seychelles, an archipelago of 115 granite and coral islands that will enchant you with its beauty and makes for the perfect holiday destination.

Blessed with pristine beaches and breathtaking natural beauty, Seychelles has a lot more to offer

VISIT GORGEOUS BEACHES: For those who like less crowded beaches, must visit Seychelles to enjoy some private moments on the world’s most photographed beach — Anse Source D’Argent on the La Digue Island, or visit the Anse Lazio on the Praslin Island, which is widely acclaimed to be the world’s most beautiful beach on earth. One can also enjoy

to the young adventure seekers. Topping it up with visa-on-arrival that is free of cost for tourists, and direct flights from India, this paradise destination makes for a great getaway with your loved ones. If Seychelles is on your bucket list, here are just a few reasons to go ahead and visit these paradisiacal islands this year.

motorised water sports like jet-ski and parasailing on the Beau Vallon, the longest beach on the Mahé Island or go sailing, snorkelling, diving, surfing, kayaking and paddle boarding on any of the other beaches.

Island hopping, whether by boat, plane or helicopter, is recommended to experience the diverse character of each island.

EXPLORE THE UNDERWATER WORLD: Indulge in snorkelling or scuba diving to experience a kaleidoscope of marine life. Spot turtles, spectacular coral reefs, nudibranchs, variety of fish, and if you are lucky, you can also swim alongside a 40-foot long whale shark. The ones who are less adventurous can go diving or discover the marvellous underwater world through a glass bottom boat or a semi submersible vessel.

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PARTY TILL YOU DROP: Seychelles offers interesting nightlife options which include clubs in the Victoria and Eden Island region, and casinos in the Victoria and Beau Vallon region of Mahé. Most of the large hotels have public bars that often host entertainment programmes of local dance.

INDULGE IN NATURE: Seychelles islands are home to 13 species and 17 subspecies of birdlife that can be discovered only here, making the islands a paradise for avid bird watchers, naturalists, ornithologists and eco-tourists. Go on mountain hikes and nature trails to spot the Seychelles national bird— Black Parrot — the rarest Jellyfish Tree, the famous Black Paradise Flycatcher, the world’s smallest frog, the largest nut Coco-de-mer, or the Indian Ocean’s only flightless bird among other seabird colonies in the world. One of the largest tortoises in the world — Aldabra Giant Tortoise — can be spotted here, especially on the Curieuse Island.

RELAX AND UNWIND: From signature treatments of the dedicated spas offering, relaxing massages with exotic herbal oils, scrubs, detox baths, wraps and invigorating wet-treatments, yoga and meditation, to a full range of beauty and grooming services, the spas in Seychelles are the mantra for complete renewal of mind, body and soul.

RELISH LOCAL DELICACIES: The food setting in Seychelles is a mix of a number of cuisines. The French settlers brought the French cuisine while the immigrants from China and India, added their Asian flavors to the Creole cuisine. You can sample some tasty dishes like the Ginger Crab and Fillet Coral Fish served in a passion fruit sauce in Mahé. The palm-heart salad, served with curry leaves and truffles, is also a unique speciality of Seychelles. Another must try is a local beer manufactured on the island called Seybrew, and the popular Takamaka Rum infused with interesting flavours.

ATTEND THE VIVACIOUS CULTURAL FESTIVAL: Seychelles’ culture is a reflection of the harmonious fusion of ethnic diversity.

The Seychelles International Carnival of Victoria, also called as the ‘Creole Festive,’ is a three day-long event, generally held in the month of October on the Mahé Island every year. With participation from 30 countries around the world, visit the island during this period to witness a fun-filled parade where different countries showcase their cultures through song, dance and acrobats.

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Q&A

EXOTICA [28] FEBRUARY 2019

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Actor MANISHA KOIRALA was at the top of her game when she was diagnosed with late stage cancer. And there were not many celebrities either who went public with their condition when the bad news hit home. However, the Steel Magnolia that she is, she demonstrated true grit in going through therapy and conditioning her mind into believing that she could get past everything as she would not let this lifetime of hers go waste. That certainty kept her going. Today she has written a book on her road to recovery. At the launch, she tells UMA NAIR how self-love boosted her confidence and killed fear

HUMAN MIND CAN CURE ANYTHING

o Looking at your journey, I want to begin with one of the greatest philosophers of the world, Friedrich Nietzsche, who had said, “No one can build you the bridge on which you, and only you, must cross the river of life. There may be countless trails and bridges and demi-gods who would gladly carry you across; but only at the price of pawning and forgoing yourself.”

I agree. In fact, you have to complete the journey, you have to walk that path, nobody else can do that for you. Whether it’s painful or joyous, one has to do it. My book, Healed: How Cancer Gave Me a New Life, is about that journey. The book is also about the power of isolation, the beauty of solitude, the fact that in pain there are so many realisations and experiences that you go through, that you come through as another individual and as someone who realises that life has another tapestry. And it has a fabric that is made of so many knots. o Cancer for you became a lesson, you embraced your difficulties instead of running away. How did you do that?

Honestly, I didn’t have a choice. I feel there’s a beauty in loneliness. I have termed it as aloneness in my book meaning oneness with your inner self. I think somewhere all of us, every human being is alone. Earlier I used to run away from that, today I value it. It’s my time, me time. It’s the time to nurture. It’s the time to connect to my spirit. It also made me aware of other aspects of life, something

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that you would have overlooked in the normal run of things. My perception of life changed. I started seeing the beauty in the knots because they helped me overcome my limits, made me believe in my own abilities and revealed who my true friends were. The biggest revelation? I learnt to love myself for the way I was. o The world’s first transplant surgeon, Dr Christian Barnard, once wrote in one of his essays that suffering isn’t ennobling. Do you agree with that?

I totally agree. I somehow feel the suffering or the pain that we run away from is there for a purpose and that purpose is to enrich you with wisdom, with a perspective on the functionality of life that normally great success doesn’t teach you. I value suffering because it helps you evolve.

A BIOGRAPHER WHOM I MET IN NEW YORK HAD ACTUALLY TOLD ME TO WRITE DOWN WHATEVER I FELT DURING THERAPY. BECAUSE ONCE YOU ARE OUT OF THAT, IT IS EASY TO FORGET THE ACTUAL GNAW OF THE PAIN. SO I STARTED COLLECTING ALL MY THOUGHTS IN A JOURNAL, ALSO DOCUMENTING THE SILENCE OF MY FAMILY, THE TRAUMA THAT THEY WERE FEELING AND WEREN’T TELLING ME ABOUT. I COULD SEE WHAT WAS GOING ON INSIDE THEIR HEADS AND I WROTE ABOUT THIS STRUGGLE

o In a chapter on chemotherapy, you mention an epiphanous moment, as if you realise why you are going through that trauma. You were also nourished by your own sense of aloneness. Could you take us a little through that?

When one is diagnosed with cancer, the biggest fear is that of death and honestly I’m still working to overcome that fear because as a human being, I do not like to have weaknesses. There were some very bad days when I was scared not only for myself but for my family. Besides the chemotherapy was excruciatingly difficult and so painful at times that

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asking more, reading more on how I could get back my wholesome health. I saw a huge connection and effected a total course correction of lifestyle, choices, priorities and people. I wanted to lead a healthy life.

existence itself seemed difficult for me. At that time, I was in such a trough that there was no guarantee that I could come out as a winner. There’s no guessing the end result. Most cancer patients have no choice but to face it with a lot of prayers in our hearts, lot of strength and support from the loved ones. There was a time that I had given up. I remember telling my mother that “if this is the pain I have to go through, I don’t want to live.” She got angry with me and I decided I couldn’t afford to be weak, only for the people who loved me.

o You remind me of the metaphor of the spider. If you destroy a spider’s web, it doesn’t get mad at you.

Instead it repairs the web all over again to make it just as strong and useful. Do you agree?

I didn’t think like the spider but you have encapsulated the spirit beautifully. It’s so important for women to think of themselves as being spiders, so that nothing could destroy their lives.

Everything happens so that we can become more enriched.

o Famous French artist Louise Bourgeois had once said, “the FIRST I HAD TO GET MY subject of pain is the business I’m in.

HEALTH BACK AND I To give meaning and shape to STARTED LEARNING HOW TO REVIVE MY frustration and suffering.” Do you DISEASED BODY. OF o The book is not only a document agree? Somehow when I went COURSE, THERE WERE of your fight, it also shows that you through those pages, I remembered DOCTORS BUT I ALSO are quite at ease with writing... her lines.

STARTED READING A Honestly, I started reading Absolutely, I wrote about that.

LOT. HUMAN BEINGS literature from a very young age.

And once I could quantify the ARE MULTIDIMENSIONAL. THERE Growing up in Varanasi, I was pain and suffering, I could repair IS AN EMOTIONAL into Hindi literature, reading my own life and correct its course.

BODY, A MENTAL AND Munshi Premchandji and others.

I was thinking, did I really live PHYSICAL BODY; And then my dad gave me my first well and did I really value my THERE ARE OTHER English book, To Kill A time? A lot of memories began LAYERS OF OUR Mockingbird, which was epic. Then coming back to me and I could EXISTENCE I evolved and moved on to other process my life till that moment of subjects and writers. So each reckoning. What if I ever got a phase of my life has been influenced by some second chance to live? I pledged I would live with writer or the other. In my late 30s, I got into mindfulness and value every moment as doing and spiritual books. That was the time when I was giving something. First I had to get my health back moving from being an atheist to an agnostic. and I started learning how to revive my diseased Of course, there was Ayn Rand. After my cancer body. Of course, there were doctors but I also was diagnosed, I was completely into health started reading a lot. Human beings are multibooks. There’s a list of all my books that I had dimensional. There is an emotional body, a mental read during my healing process and I had derived and physical body; there are other layers of our some information and navigated my therapy existence. So I started digging out more, started

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MY PERCEPTION OF LIFE CHANGED. I STARTED SEEING THE BEAUTY IN THE KNOTS BECAUSE THEY HELPED ME OVERCOME MY LIMITS, MADE ME BELIEVE IN MY OWN ABILITIES AND REVEALED WHO MY TRUE FRIENDS WERE. THE BIGGEST REVELATION? I LEARNT TO LOVE MYSELF FOR THE WAY I WAS

through them. One of the prominent writers in this category who comes to my mind is Dr Andrew Wheel. o How difficult was it working on the draft of your book?

A biographer whom I met in New York had actually told me to write down whatever I felt during therapy. Because once you are out of that, it is easy to forget the actual gnaw of the pain. So I started collecting all my thoughts in a journal, also documenting the silence of my family, the trauma that they were feeling and weren’t telling me about. I could see what was going on inside their heads and I wrote about the struggle of reconciliation then and there.

Sometimes your body becomes so weak that your mind is like a disconnected force and you’ve got to keep it positive. Notes helped me remain sane. o No wonder Kahlil Gibran had said your pain is breaking the shell that encloses your understanding of it.

I don’t think I will be able to clarify how to differentiate between suffering and pain. Or what was more overpowering. They overlapped with fear. There were many emotions that I was going through at the same time. Some of them were contradictory too in terms of the circumstances, health processes and transitions that I went through. o If someone who had just been detected with cancer came to you, what would you tell them?

First, I shy away from giving advice. But since I have gone through it myself, I’d normally advise them to get a good doctor as there are a lot of people who suffer because the first line treatment isn’t done well. So, I would always recommend, consult the right expert for good treatment. After my treatment got over, I looked at food

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differently and as a natural way of healing. But first it’s the allopathy that always helps, so get a good doctor.

I would tell them to have faith because mine was also a last stage cancer, so it was very difficult to hold on. But if I am cancer-free today, then I am sure other people could be as well. It’s a miracle in the making. I have a strong feeling that each one of us has an innate power within us which we don’t realise. We are yet to rise to our potential. o In the book you mention, “the fear of being abandoned had chased me all my life. This fear however was unlike anything I had experienced

before. It was the fear of being abandoned by life itself.” That in reality becomes the summary of this book.

I would like to add that I may have appeared strong but inside the fear was crumbling and crushing me. I had to first convince myself that I had to add value to my life, whatever was there.

That moment changed everything. Cancer definitely rekindled my spirit. It made me realise that every human being has the capacity to overcome any challenge. Eventually, it depends on us. We can either sit back and think that life has been horrible or take charge of the situation and do what we think is best.

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Nothing quite compares to swishing down a powdery slope on a pair of skis. When it comes to snow holidays, you might think that January is the best month to hit the blanketed valleys. But why not head to the mountains a little later in the season?

With the winter holidays having come to an end, the chances of being surrounded by amateurs and learners become remote. Besides cheaper prices, you get as much snow.

Here’s looking at some resorts that could make it to your hotlist

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TRAVEL BUG

I N T E R N AT I O N A L

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F R A N C E SERRE CHEVALIER: “Serre Che”, as it is affectionately known, is a resort in the southern Alps.

Most of the runs are wooded even though 80 per cent of the terrain is above 2,000 metres, which is a rare and an extremely advantageous combination.

The resort is actually made up of four villages, so you can take your pick depending on what suits you. There are some independent chalet companies here, run by those who came here and fell in love with the place. A favourite run is the long Cucumelle red piste, which ends at a fast chair to whisk you to the top again.

LES CONTAMINES: Say the name Les Contamines to skiers and many would look back at you blankly, not having heard of it. They are missing out on a friendly, charming village with access to some great scenery that literally stops you in your tracks.

On one side one can see the Mont Blanc, a snowy mountain that provides a beautiful visual backdrop. Then, on the other side, when you drop towards Hauteluce, you can find yourself skiing in sunshine, above clouds that gather over the lake in the valley below. Since it is not too popular, another advantage is that the pistes are really quiet, almost deserted.

LES ARCS AND LA PLAGNE: One of the ski areas that is the most rail-accessible is the Paradiski, home to the resorts of Les Arcs and La Plagne. Many of La Plagne’s villages are ski-in/skiout. It has plenty of slopes that people learning to ski can progress on, as well as lot to challenge

more advanced skiers. The two ski areas are connected by the Vanoise Express gondola. You can peer down at the valley floor hundreds of metres below — a sight to behold.

One of the great things about Les Arcs is the high-altitude skiing that even beginners can access, because there are plenty of blue runs fanning out from the 2,600-metre peak of Col de la Chal.

TIGNES: In Tignes, a sprawling resort made up of five villages, the season lasts well into May and after that it’s possible to summer-ski on the glacier, which has over 20 kilometres of runs and a vertical drop of over 750 metres. It’s also part of the enormous Espace Killy ski area and the resort’s network of ski lifts puts Val d’Isère within easy reach, too. Tignes has always been regarded as one the best party ski resorts.

CHAMONIX: Chamonix — at the intersection of France, Italy, and Switzerland — is the mountaineering capital of Europe. It’s common knowledge that the best late season snow can be found in Europe’s higher resorts and Chamonix, 3,300 metres (10,000 feet) above sea level, certainly ticks that box. Head to this chic resort for over 1,000 kilometres of terrain, including legendary runs like Grands Montets and Valley Blanche. The ski season here often lasts well into May, depending on conditions. And it’s a misconception that those looking for cheap ski holidays should rule this resort out, thanks in part to a number of new budget ski hotels in Chamonix.

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S W I T Z E R L A N D feet, so snow here lingers for a very long season.

Its car-free town centre feels wonderfully rustic and there’s a great range of restaurant and accommodation options.

Remember to keep your camera at hand when in Zermatt as the towering, snow-dusted peaks mean that it’s one of the world’s most stunning places to go skiing.

ST MORITZ: The oldest winter holiday resort in the world is as elegant and exclusive as it gets. If it wasn't already blessed enough, the sun shines 322 days a year, pairing with the dry air for what’s known as a “champagne climate.” But it’s the world-class hotels and restaurants, chic shopping and excellent skiing offpiste that draw celebrities and royalty alike. It has hosted two Winter Olympic Games and five Alpine Ski World Championships.

Altogether, the region has 87 pistes of World Cup quality standards.

GSTAAD: All you need is one little lift pass to access 12 separate ski areas and 200 kilometres of piste, all connected by a train running through the five villages that make up this storeyed resort. A traffic-free town centre, including a promenade lined with luxury boutiques and fairy tale SwissGerman architecture, make this one of Europe’s most traditional winter destinations.

VERBIER: Verbier doesn’t just have a high altitude on its side but great snow-making facilities too, so even if the snow storms are petering out, you can be assured there will be plenty of the white stuff at Switzerland’s most popular ski resort — it might just come from one of the hi-tech snow cannons. And given that Verbier’s not exactly regarded as one of Europe’s cheapest ski resorts, the ability to go outside of peak season will appeal to those searching for ski holidays on a budget.

Back in 2008 Verbier reinvented itself as the most glamorous resort in the Alps with three high-profile openings: Richard Branson’s luxury chalet The Lodge, minimalist hotel Nevaï (which opened with a fashion show), and Coco Club, considered the first VIP club in the Alps. It also attracts a youthful, sporty clientele to the Four Valleys with its backcountry terrain and quality runs for experts and novices.

ZERMATT: This famous Swiss ski resort, in the shadow of the mighty Matterhorn, has lifts that take you up to 3,899 metres, and there’s great skiing until early May. After that, you’ll be able to enjoy summer skiing on the glacier.

Zermatt, surrounded by the Alps’ tallest peaks, has 223 miles of runs in four huge ski areas— some at an altitude of over 10,000

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I T A LY LIVIGNO: One of the higher resorts in Europe with pistes up to 3,000 metres and an enviable snow record, Livigno is also known for its sunny location in the Italian Alps. It’s home to one of Europe’s largest terrain parks and the skiing usually lasts until early May. Livigno’s tax-free tax status is also a considerable draw as the food and drink are value for money. It’s regarded as one of Italy’s best ski resorts for families and is one of Europe’s top ski destination for beginners.

CORTINA D’AMPEZZO: The location for Pink Panther, this is certainly a beautiful place to ski down. The frozen blue waterfalls, the tooth-like rocks at the Cinque Torri, the deserted Hidden Valley, where you can actually stop and experience perfect silence and the huge lunch at the Armentarola restaurant in San Cassiano make it really attractive.

This 1,000-year-old town, carved into the valley of the Boîte river, really grew into a must-visit ski destination following the 1956 Winter Olympics. Just

two hours from Venice, the town isn’t too remote— though the towering ring of surrounding dolomites might make it feel otherwise—and its low-key, upscale vibe (a far remove from the flashy, see-andbe-seen culture of other comparable ski towns) continues to attract the likes of George Clooney and Naomi Campbell.

CERVINIA: Set on a glacier-capped bowl at the foot of the Matterhorn, 6,726-foot Cervinia is one of Europe’s highest ski resorts. That means consistent, high-quality snow and a season that runs through the summer on 16 miles of glacial trails. Lift tickets include access to Zermatt, Cervinia’s Swiss sister resort just across the border and connected runs mean endless options, including a mind-blowing, muscle-destroying 14-mile one from Switzerland to Italy. It’s also home to the highest snowpark in Europe, tons of excellent trails for all levels of riders and skiers and great dining options that won’t break the bank.

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C A N A D A BANFF: Banff, which has one of the longest ski seasons in North America, comprises three ski villages: Lake Louise Ski Resort, Sunshine Village and Mt. Norquay. It’s also regarded as one of the best places in America for spring skiing, thanks largely to the sheer size of the place. Visit this beautiful chunk of Canada and you’ll have 8,000 acres of skiable terrain on your doorstep, all of which can be accessed using a tri-area lift ticket, which includes transport, night skiing at Mt Norquay and certain additional winter activities such as tubing. The area’s unique climate means it’s also one of the few places to experience genuine champagne powder – which happens to fall by the bucket load in this part of the world.

WHISTLER-BLACKCOMB: The presence of a glacier on Blackcomb Mountain means that skiers here can tear up the slopes until June and excellent slope grooming and snow-making facilities ensure that there’s never any shortage of the white stuff.

The views of both Whistler and Blackcomb peaks are spectacular. The Peak 2 Peak gondola ride is an attraction in its own right, even when the snows have begun to melt.

U S A MAMMOTH, CALIFORNIA: With a season that typically lasts into June but also boasts over 300 days of sunshine a year, skiers and snowboarders can get the best of both worlds at one of the USA’s premier mountain resorts. This is a great alternative summer holiday with the kids, with an unlimited list of things to do, including super-fast snow tubing down the slopes in a rubber ring, or snowmobile tours to explore the huge meadows around the twinkling Mammoth Lakes.

SALT LAKE CITY: When you think about booking a ski holiday, you may not initially think of the Mormon capital of the US, but the resorts come with affordable prices, good facilities and convenient locations. Salt Lake Park & City have seven resorts, all within an hour of the airport. Activities include skiing, snowboarding, snowmobiling, helicopter skiing, tubing, ice-skating, sleigh rides and hot air ballooning.

And when you’re not doing snow-related stuff, you can head into the vibrant university town for entertainment.

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A U S T R I A KITZBÜHEL: Just two hours from Munich, Austria’s most popular holiday resort has it all: posh hotels; a lively après-ski scene along quaint, cobblestone streets and unsurpassed skiing that includes eight renowned ski schools and some of the most demanding courses on the World Cup circuit.

INNSBRUCK: Why not combine a city break with a ski trip? There’s a reason why Innsbruck hosted the 1964 and 1976 Winter Olympics: it’s a fabulous city nestled in a valley between the Nordkette, Patscherkofel and Serles high mountains. Be dazzled by sights like the Golden Roof and Ambras Castle before heading out to the piste on the afternoon.

Glaciated terrain in Stubai Valley means you can even ski in the summer months.

ÅRE (SWEDEN) This ski resort opens in November and closes in May and it’s not hard to see why it’s regarded as the best place in Sweden for late season snow.

Some seriously impressive floodlighting means that it’s possible to night-ski on several of the resort’s 100 pistes and there are plenty of activities for non-skiers too, including husky rides, cross country skiing and snow mobiling. Post run, soothe those aches and pains at a traditional Swedish sauna.

HAKUBA VALLEY (JAPAN) Once part of the Salt Road, Hakuba is a village at the centre of 10 ski resorts around the Northern Japan Alps. Home to the Winter Olympics in 1998, it has towering peaks, over 200 runs and excellent dining options. When you’re not swishing down the side of a mountain, head to Jigokudani Monkey Park nearby. Here you’ll encounter the enchanting snow monkeys that spend their days at leisure, bathing in the hot springs.

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LYNGEN ALPS, NORWAY Spend one day skiing on the peninsula and surrounding islands and the next fishing in the fjords. Picturesque Lyngen Lodge offers spectacular views of the mountains as well as a range of alternative winter activities, including dog-sledging and glacier-walking. Visit between January and February and you also get to see the Aurora Borealis or Northern Lights – a sight not to be missed.

OUKAIMEDEN, MOROCCO When you’re thinking of booking flights to Morocco you think of heat, colour and Sahara, but skiing? Yes, the snow-capped Atlas mountains may not offer the swankiest resort in the world but it’s certainly a different experience. For one, it’s much cheaper than the French Alps, and so untouristy that visitors usually stay in the surrounding villages before being guided to the slopes by donkeys. When you’re not skiing or snowboarding, you can spend your time trying to spot ancient etchings in the sandstone trails.

TRANSYLVANIA, ROMANIA Dracula must have been an excellent skier because his homeland of Transylvania is full of top-notch resorts. The most popular is Poiana Brasov, but it is still relatively inexpensive in comparison with resorts in France and Italy. Lying at the bottom of the Postavaru Massif, its snow layer lasts 120 days a year. There are plenty of good quality restaurants and hotels.

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N AT I O N A L

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J & K

HIMACHAL PRADESH

PAHALGAM: Pahalgam, a small town located in the Anantnag district of Jammu and Kashmir, is a major destination where snow skiing is popular among all the regions of western Himalayas. The added availability of breathtaking views makes the place a favorite with trekkers and skiers alike. The best time to visit is between December and March, when the snow is nice and thick.

GULMARG: Gulmarg is a nice little place in the Baramulla district of Jammu and Kashmir.

Popularly known as the “heartland of winter sports�, the valley and meadows here have been listed as the seventh best skiing destination in Asia. Gulmarg also has the gondola, the highest cable car in the whole world. The best time to visit the region is during the months of December to March.

SOLANG NALA: Solang Nala, a valley in Himachal Pradesh, is famous for conducting many types of winter games, especially skiing. There are many tournaments organised as well as workshops held for teaching amateurs the basics.

Other summer games that are popular here are parachuting, paragliding, skating and zorbing.

U T T A R A K H A N D

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MUNSIYARI: The name literally means ‘a place with snow.’ It is situated on the banks of the Goriganga river.

Mountaineers, glacier enthusiasts, high altitude trekkers and nature lovers commonly use it as their hub or base camp. Munsiyari also falls on the ancient salt route from Tibet and is at the entrance of the Johar Valley.

AULI: Auli, a favourite skiing destination for many, is located 250 km away from Rishikesh. The slopes are at an altitude of almost 2,500 to 3,000 metres.

DAYARA BUGYAL: Dayara Bugyal has lush slopes with a vast expanse of beautiful alpine grasslands. The breath-taking views of the surrounding snow-covered and gigantic Himalayan peaks make for an awesome summer retreat. The lake of Barnala Tal is a famous camping site for most trekkers and visitors to the area.

MUNDALI: Mundali in Dehradun has a thick cluster of dense forests, which makes the course challenging. Beautiful views of the snow-capped Himalayas beckon visitors as well as skiers to the place.

KUFRI: Kufri’s skiing season is from November to February, when the area is covered with a white sheet of snow which makes the entire place breathtakingly beautiful. The tall deodars and the green pines, which border the ski run, make the place look regal.

NARKANDA: Narkanda, at an attitude of almost 2,708 meters on the Hindustan Tibet road, offers stunning views of the high snow ranges. There are unlimited skiing options as well as apple orchards, dense forests, which add to the charm. Skiing on the Narkanda slopes started in 1980 and continues till date.

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NATIONAL HEALTH MISSION FOR CITIZEN’S WELL-BEING THE MINISTRY OF HEALTH AND FAMILY WELFARE HAS TAKEN STRONG STEPS TO STRENGTHEN THE HEALTHCARE FACILITIES FOR THE COUNTRY’S POPULATION THROUGH THE NATIONAL HEALTH MISSION he health of a population has positive effects on a country’s economic and social development.

Recognising the importance of good health and to improve the quality of life of the citizens, the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, had launched the National Health Mission (NHM).

The NHM encompasses its two sub-missions — National Rural Health Mission (NRHM) and National Urban Health Mission (NUHM). The main programmatic components include health system strengthening in the rural and urban areas, reproductive, maternal-neonatal-child and adolescent health (RMNCH+A) and communicable and noncommunicable diseases. The NHM envisages the achievement of universal access to equitable, affordable and quality healthcare services that are accountable and responsive to people’s needs with effective inter-sectoral convergent actions, to address the wider social determinants of health.

The NRHM seeks to provide quality healthcare to the

T

rural population, especially the vulnerable groups. The objective of NUHM is to improve the health status of the urban population particularly the urban poor and the other vulnerable sections by facilitating their access to quality primary healthcare. The NUHM covers all state capitals, district headquarters and other cities and towns with a population of 50,000 and above (as per census 2011).

The Mission adopts a synergistic approach by relating health to determinants of good health like segments of nutrition, sanitation, hygiene and safe drinking water. It also aims at mainstreaming the Indian systems of medicine to facilitate healthcare. The plan of action includes increasing public expenditure on health, reducing regional imbalance in health infrastructure, pooling resources, integration of organisational structures, optimisation of health manpower, decentralisation and district management of health programmes, community participation and ownership of assets, induction of management and financial personnel into district health system. It also encompasses the operationalisation of the community health centres into functional hospitals to meet the Indian public health standards in each block of the country.

The NHM is both flexible and dynamic and is intended to guide states towards ensuring the achievement of universal access to health care through strengthening of health systems, institutions and capabilities.

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Under NHM, there have been significant improvements in the health outcomes in terms of mortality rates as well as improvements in the service delivery in health facilities. o The Maternal Mortality Ratio (MMR) has declined by 2.7 per cent from 178 (per 1,00,000 live births) during 2010-12 to 130 ((per 1,00,000 live births) during 2014-16. o The Infant Mortality Rate (IMR) has decreased from 44 (per 1,000 live births) in 2011 to 34 (per 1,000 live births) in 2016. The annual rate of decline of IMR between 2015 and 2018 was recorded at 8.1 per cent. o The Under 5 Mortality Rate (U5MR) has reduced to 39 (per 1,000 live births) in 2016 from 55 (per 1,000 live births) in 2011. The annual rate of decline in U5MR during 2015-16 was 9.3 per cent. o The Total Fertility Rate (TFR) (birth per women) was 2.3 in 2016. The percentage annual compound rate of decline in TFR during 2011-16 has been observed as 1.7 per cent.

The NHM has also focused on communicable disease control programmes and disease surveillance. Various diseases-related health indicators have also shown improvement. Some of them include: o In respect of malaria, the annual parasite incidence (API) declined to 0.84 in 2016 from 1.10 in 2011. In 2017, malaria incidence reduced by 30 per cent and the deaths due to malaria decreased by 70 per cent. o The incidence of tuberculosis (TB) per 1,00,000 population has been reduced to 204 in 2017, from 234 in 2013. The mortality due to TB per lakh population for India reduced to 21 in 2017 from 32 in 2016. o The target of prevalence of leprosy, less than one case per

NHM IS VITAL TO SUPPORTING THE STATES IN IMPROVING THEIR HEALTH SYSTEMS. THE HEIGHTENED FOCUS ON THE ASPIRATIONAL DISTRICTS ALSO PROVIDES US WITH SIGNIFICANT LEVERAGE POINT TO ADDRESS LONG PERSISTING INEQUITIES AND DEVELOPMENT LAG IN THE DISTRICTS. THIS WILL BE STRENGTHENED THROUGH NHM — JP NADDA, UNION MINISTER OF HEALTH AND FAMILY WELFARE 10,000 population, has been achieved nationally. The number of districts that achieved elimination of leprosy has increased from 554 in 2017 to 571 by March 2018. o The number of Kala Azar endemic blocks with prevalence of more than one case per 10,000 population has been reduced to 72 in 2017, from 94 in 2016. The aim is to reduce the incidence of Kala Azar to less than one case per 10,000 population in all blocks. o The use of tobacco decreased by 6 per cent average points, from 34.6 per cent in 2009-10 to 28.6 per cent in 2016-17 after the various measures taken by the government. o As many as 33 states and union territories have signed the memorandum of understanding (MOU) for implementing the Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (PMJAY), out of which, 29 have already launched the scheme. o To strengthen the disease surveillance in the country, the Integrated Health Information Platform (IHIP) is being used under the Integrated Disease Surveillance Programme (IDSP). t is noteworthy that the National Health Policy 2017, was launched after a gap of 15 years. The major commitment of the NHP 2017 is to raise public health expenditure progressively to 2.5 per cent of the GDP by 2025. It envisages to provide a larger package of assured comprehensive primary healthcare through the Health and Wellness Centres. The policy also aims to attain the highest possible level of health and well-being for all, at all ages, through a preventive and promotive healthcare and universal access to quality health services, without anyone having to face financial hardship as a consequence.

The two major health initiatives under the newly announced Ayushman Bharat scheme — the transformation of nearly 1.5 lakh sub-centres and primary health centres to Health and Wellness Centres for delivery of comprehensive primary health care services and the PMJAY, which aims to cover over 10 crore poor and vulnerable families (approximately 50 crore beneficiaries), by providing a coverage up to `5 lakh per family, per year, for secondary and tertiary hospitalisation — will also promote the highest possible levels of health and well-being for the citizens.

I

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Artists from India and abroad congregated in Delhi to offer a rich tapestry that allowed the viewers to prime all of their five senses and for the first time created a tactile and participatory world that engaged the connoisseur and the layperson alike

SENSE AND SENSIBILITY INSTALLATION: GALLERIE ISA

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A R T FA I R

A MAESTRO STALE Through three drawings, artist JOGEN CHOWDHURY brings forth a fascinating study of contemporary conversations, says UMA NAIR

AS

we walked to the India Art Fair, the Palette Art Gallery’s melange of masters threw up a trio of artist Jogen Chowdhury’s drawings that were a treat for tired eyes and stood apart as a corollary of contemporary conversations in the vitality and versatile power of drawings. With humble tools and ink and mixed media on paper, he presented three drawings that were a heady study of anatomical exaggerations and the fascinating felicity of the cross-hatch style that could never grow old. This is what defines Jogenda, the maestro.

PARIS IN THE 1960s: In 2007, when I went to spend a few days at his Shantiniketan home. One chilly winter, he spoke of how a generous scholarship took him to Paris where he was trained at the Ecole Nationale Superieure des Beaux Arts and Atelier 17 of William Hayter, which, at that time, was the finishing school of many talented young Indian artists aspiring to seek rudiments of European techniques. “We had to draw many portraits and sketches of several European models who sat in the studios,” recalled Jogenda. “But I always felt that translating mere realism for the sake of it was not what I wanted. I used to get bored, so I started doing exaggerations in mood and I created a set of pen and ink drawings with those signatures.”

He added, “In later years they became studies of the people I associated with or observed in day

to day activities and that is how my cross-hatched portraits became part of my sensibility. I think I was yearning for something original and that is the beginning of my journey with such drawings.”

LOOSE-LIMBED TORSOS: Those drawings from the 1960s have come to bearing as you looked at two portraits of men and one of a bulbous woman. Intriguing perhaps to see that Jogenda is happy creating loose-limbed, bulging torsos of naked evocative men who are by no means young, and also creating a long-haired woman with rotund eyes, with thin and knobbly arms that end in long undulating fingers. These two men and the woman are by no means large but their impact is indeed monumental almost as if their flesh has turned into skin that is coarsely tinted and hewn by his pliant pen and ink. The body with deeply grooved furrows ensures a striking attractiveness that emanates a strong and pulsating sensuality.

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PATACHITRAS AND ALPANAS IN REFERENCE: Jogenda is the master of the modernist figure. The manner in which he distorts form with the pensive fluidity of lines is reminiscent of all forms and indices of the ritualistic alpana created on the floors of Bengali homes by gorgeous women with graceful saris. In all the three drawings, Jogenda draws our attention to the limbs and if we look closely, the extremities have a luxuriant as well as languid grace about them. This reminds us of the abundant foliage on rooftops, crevices and corners of villages.

“My work has always been deeply rooted in Indian traditions,” states Jogenda. “You can look at many references but of course the one that comes instantly to mind is that of the patachitras, alpanas and the floral studies that I have done and observed in the past.”

SURREALISM: What is evident also is how in the drawing that is a portrait, he gives us the limpid language of surrealism. The decorative element is inherent in Jogenda’s style, but for him embellishment has its own flourish, its own lingua franca. It also highlights folk elements. The beauty of these three drawings is the intricate crosshatching that gives an undeniable threedimensional quality. These drawings are far from beautiful, they have tales to tell and elicit the power of the human hand because despite his age, Jogenda dares to be simple and sophisticated, leaving his lithe, loose lines to do all the talking.

The panache and perfection of using pen and ink directly on paper is non pareil. The lines meander across the white surface and as the human forms take shape, we are reminded that drawing is the basis of all art and it is the human hand that empowers and embraces the very spirit of creation.

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THE WORLD IS ENOUGH Artists and galleries from across the globe congregated in Delhi to showcase their work. By CHAHAK MITTAL

TIME

became an illusion when one entered the India Art Fair. You didn’t want to leave especially, when you were surrounded by a plethora of creativity and colours from across the world. It was appealing to see how the contemporary art scene has evolved in the country and today had an immense global presence. The fair was the right place to discover the reach of the contemporary Indian art market across the globe.

There were more than 75 exhibitors from across Indian and international cities, many of them first-timers.

As a first-timer, taking a walk through I came across Gallery Palais de Seoul from Korea that featured two Korean contemporary artists, Kim Deok Han and Han Kyu Nam. Using traditional techniques from their country and an Oriental line of thought, artist Kim had constructed his own world that not only dug into the past but also revealed the present. The concept of repeated brush strokes in his work implied the record of time and space, representing An Oriental Line. While he derived his inspirations from eastern ideologies, artist Han’s An Alien of New York combined both Oriental and Western techniques.

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Next came Gallery Grosvenor from London, which has been showcasing in India for the past nine years now. Its director Charles Moore believed that the Indian art market is poised to be one of the “biggest” in the world. He said that they had been showcasing in India since they represent many Indian artists like Syed Haider Raza, Bhupen Khakhar, Krishen Khanna, among others including some South Asian and especially, Pakistani artists too.

Gallery Arario from Korea was also a first-time exhibitor at the fair. A spokesperson elaborated upon the reason why they zeroed down on India to represent their gallery. “India is massive, especially when it comes to art. We represent many Indian and Southeast Asian artists and had never discovered the country’s market so closely. People value art that is rare,” he said.

Moving ahead, artist Alexander Gorlizki’s works on paper combined together diverse elements like hand-painted figures, ornamental and textile patterns, as well as photographs and magazine pages. His compositions ranged from geometric abstraction to loosely-narrative scenes, offering a view into the layered worlds where Eastern and Western iconographies and historical references are re-contextualised. His works were inspired by the Indian Mughlai miniature style and also from the megacity of New York.

Artist Ghulam Mohammad from Kacchi in Balochistan, Pakistan, had brought together the conception of reality and fiction, which for him appeared hand-in-hand. He created artwork by pasting entangled letters of Urdu and Persian languages. The letters formed a channel or bridge like the traditional Hashiya or window. He believes that every letter has its own border that initiates communication. “There is a communication that can only be achieved from a defined border or distance.”

James Green from David Zwirner said, “We had come for the fair last year as well because Indian buyers had been showing a lot of interest in the artists that we deal in. Our belief was well-founded. Not only did we do a fair amount of business but we have also been able to build long-term relationships which have endured. This prompted us to come back this time too.”

Over a period of four days, for the art world and its lovers, Delhi had become their oyster.

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INSTALLING AN IDEA THREE

identical figures were intertwined in a circle, each concealing and interrupting each others’ senses — to see, listen and communicate. The sculpture, Don’t See, Don’t Hear, Don’t Speak by artist Shilpa Gupta found its roots in today’s changing political landscape with unidentified borders of orchestrated oppression and loss of agency.

The Change Room by Bhopal-born artist Baaraan

Ijlal was a sound installation about conflicts, fear, loss, love and the possibilities of change. Audio recordings of anonymous voices, of those who have experienced violence — ethnic, racial, statesponsored and gender-based, or war and displacement — played in a dark room, audible when visitors moved closer.

Another installation by artist Neha Verma was a personal interpretation of traditional consort of architectural patterns and hung in a booth by the

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organisation Access For All. The artist brought out geometric patterns and forms in her work.

What made it interactive was a miniature, tactile version of the deeply-geometric and layered work, that could be touched by the visually-impaired.

Siddhant Shah, head, Access for All, said the idea behind the tactile artworks came when his mother, who is partially sighted, was once asked to leave a gallery for the fear that “she will break something.” Shah, who now champions Universal Design, encouraged the Fair visitors to experience tactile works in a simulated environment, blindfolded.

Ravi Agarwal’s The Desert of the Anthropocene was an installation with photographic works, text, videos and objects, and was a part of an ongoing investigation into the current state of the nature, both as a crisis which traverses a political realm, but also a cultural contestat of how ‘nature’ was thought of as an abstract idea to be exploited, in the era of the Anthropocene.

An immersive experience from architect Pinakin Patel engaged visitors in a narration about a stone placed at the roots of a tree: “...another traveller notices the beautiful rock and is tempted to add a wild flower, a lady applies her vermillion on it, and another day, the cook paints the stone with turmeric...”

An exhibitor handed a paintbrush and a palette of colours to the visitors, and asked them to add their signatures on the stone, depending on what came to their mind after listening to the narration.

Many visitors do pick up the brush hesitantly, and probably after years.

Manisha Baswani, who documents artists’ lives and studios, and herself has a Partition connection, was also showcasing her project Postcards From Home, which had stories of India and Pakistani artists kept in sacks of wheat grain (kanak) — symbolising feelings of home and something that was common to the lands of the countries.

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British artist DAVID HOCKNEY presented the 14th 1995 BMW 850 CSi art car narrating the emotional connection and singular bond between a driver and a vehicle

AN ARTISTIC DRIVE

BRITISH

artist David Hockney had created the 14th 1995 BMW 850 CSi art car for the first time in India. Art cars or the ‘Rolling Sculptures’ are original masterpieces of art that demonstrate an individual synthesis of artistic expression and automobile design. Since 1975, 19 international artists have created the art cars. Hockney’s art car told a story. The imagery, flat and Matisse-like, narrated the emotional connection and singular bond between the driver and the vehicle. He offered a glimpse into the dynamics of the driver’s life: the car contained this personal story.

The X-ray view of the interior of the car presented a view of this connection. He turned the inside out, putting the technology of the BMW 850 CSi on the outside and making the bodywork

seem transparent. On the bonnet he painted parts of the 380 hp 12 — cylinder engine: big grey cylinders and huge round intake manifolds.

He stretched stylised tyre treads, painted in black on white, far beyond the wheel arches, as if you were looking down through the metal from above.

On the driver’s side there was a silhouette of a human figure in black and white. It was like the shadow of the driver on a canvas screen. On the passenger side, roof and trunk, Hockney depicted a landscape. We could see a short stretch of grey road and a lot of green, the lush rich green of California’s trees. Behind the silhouette of the driver was a white dog in an upright position. The dog was looking over the driver’s shoulder and out of the window. The Californian sun shone a powerful yellow and orange in the background.

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C I T Y C A N VA S

THE WALLS SPEAK

An art project engages the community on social causes such as women empowerment, climate change, waste management, upcycling and other pertinent issues by adding colour to drab facades. In the process, it democratises and diversifies citizens EXOTICA [54] FEBRUARY 2019

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ARTIST: SAMEER / PHOTO: PRANAV GOHILL

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ARTIST: SANER / PHOTOGRAPHER: AKSHAT NAURIYAL

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Picasso believed the purpose of art is washing the dust of daily life off our souls. Certainly we need it most in our cities, all grey with grime and pale with clinical functionality. Picasso further believed that art could not become a mass movement unless artistes engaged freely with the community. Drawing inspiration from him, artists’ collectives in Delhi have taken it upon themselves to do up public facades as a free space for creativity and thoughts and adding some colour to our everyday lives. So be it colourful murals, celebrating art for art’s sake or subtle messaging, lush green trees splaying on walls

and knotting up in blue and grey because of climate change, or just words, either as graffiti or calligraphy, the Lodhi colony has resurrected itself in our mindspace as Delhi’s first art district. And now the interactive conversations have spread to other localities like Shahpur Jat. Taking the movement forward, the St+art India Foundation has announced its Urban Art Festival, where the community will engage with a group of artists to enliven their neighbourhood walls till March.

Since inception in 2014, St+art has worked towards its vision of making art accessible to everyone through transforming public spaces and

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creating open-air public art galleries, which not only ignite conversation but also increase community pride and interaction. The three- month project, which started on January 15, includes an expansion of its flagship project, the Lodhi Art District, with an addition of more than 20 new murals. There will be an immersive art exhibition — F(r)iction at KONA — that will represent the discourse on the changing nature of the relationship between art, nature and technology and the complexities of our lives entangled in dichotomies and cross-pollinations. There will be a special focus on increasing community participation at Lodhi Colony and surrounding areas. The festival will see

participation from over 30 creators, including artists, musicians, chefs and performers, and will celebrate diversity, culture and inclusivity, making art accessible to all.

One of the founders, Akshat Nauriyal, says they hope to scale up the urban art festival to an international street art festival. “Art in India is very much the preserve of the privileged and continues to be restrictive and exclusive. We want to democratise art and make our spaces breathe. There is tremendous room for forward thinking design and re-imagining our public spaces. I began as a documentary maker of alternative sub-cultures in India. Hanif (Kureshi) and I had been working

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closely together ever since we shared a studio. Arjun Bahl had worked with Hanif and Giulia, an Italian curator, was documenting Indian art. Somehow our ideas converged, we came together and did our first street festival in Shahpur Jat in 2014. Since then we have founded the St+art India Foundation, a not-for-profit organisation.”

Nauriyal and his friends meticulously stay away from galleries and, in fact, look out for the most nondescript of places. “We have even gone to Okhla, which is an industrial part of town, with a massive garbage landfill. Agreed it is not touristy but can you imagine the city without it? It is our lifeline as all our goods and necessities are unloaded here. We did a show to activate it as an alternative to the usual hangouts of mostly south Delhi, which also makes for an interesting juxtaposition and contrast.”

They choose their spaces after a lot of thought.

For example, they chose Shahpur Jat because it represented a frontier of two worlds, the urban and the rural and was a cauldron of rapidly-changing influences. It was high-density with a lot of young people taking up accommodation as assistants of fashion designers, who have their colonnades and studios. Most importantly, it was navigable by foot.

Moreover, it is an urban village that was rapidly changing. “Once it was an estate of the Jat

PHOTO: PRANAV GOHILL

community but due to its proximity to South Delhi and peripheral nature, they started letting out their homes to students and first-time job seekers as a subsidiary economy. Gradually they became gentrified. So while a lot of posh boutiques and cafés had opened up on the perimeter, on the inside it was still primarily residential with small hole-inthe-wall shops. We thought this space was ideal for a variety of voices, of both the rooted and the uprooted,” says Nauriyal.

St+arttcaptured the city’s imagination with a huge mural on the Delhi Police headquarters, that of Mahatma Gandhi by German artist Hendrik Beikirch and Indian artist Anpu. It was a breakthrough in its own way. First, it was not protest art, it was Bapu. Second, it was the first on a government building, all of 158 ft. Needless to say, it helped the artists get access to the corridors that mattered and get the much-needed approvals for working with more facades. That’s how Lodhi Colony happened.

“We wanted to create multiple artworks in the form of an open walkthrough gallery where people could just hang around, sip a coffee, feel the vibe, connect to the city’s pulse and leave whenever. It is one of the rare places in Delhi which is pedestrianfriendly. It’s also connected, navigable and has symmetrical blocks created in a localised typology.

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The façades that it presented were beautiful, large and symmetric, which meant that almost every artist got a similar canvas to play with, and hence, there is a semblance of symmetry to the entire project. As a government-owned residential colony, it didn’t face any threat of being gentrified, so we knew that the artwork would stay on,” adds Nauriyal. Courtesy the art project, Lodhi is now a culture hotspot in its own right with open air sessions, photo shoots and events.

At the Lodhi Art District, an additional 20 new murals have been planned this year. The artists will produce their interpretation of social causes, such as women empowerment, climate change, waste and upcycling and various other pertinent issues. The festival is being made experiential through a focus on interactive media art pieces, which will explore the use of public space with emerging technologies.

Visitors are encouraged to participate in artist-led workshops and curated tours for children and adults. In order to champion accessibility, there will be specially curated tours for the differently-abled.

At F(r)iction at KONA, there is an immersive walk through multimedia artworks by national and international artists. “Technology is changing our interactions with what all surrounds us, with nature, with ourselves within it as well as the viewership and creation of art. Thanks to technology, our definition of what art is made us capable of thinking about it in a more dynamic,

open-minded way. It has also increased accessibility to art, making it no longer a realm of the elite.

But does the desire of a captivating instagram picture dilute the reason of art to be?” asks Nauriyal.

Site-specific installations, videos, interactive multimedia pieces and murals will transform the venue of Kona in Jor Bagh Market.

There has been an over-arching community outreach effort that began with reaching out to over 7,500 households, using the extensive newspaper delivery networks, to get feedback on their interests and the stories of the Lodhi community. Now the residents have a sense of ownership and pride.

So St+art is inviting artists from all over the world, activating unique networks and creating engaging projects for public consumption. This time Polish artist Nespoon will be setting up a large mural and conduct a skill-learning workshop with a group of underprivileged women, which will be inaugurated on March 8. The “Passion Meets Possibilities” theme will bring together artists from Singapore. With young Indian travellers increasingly seeking different, immersive and authentic experiences, these are innovative ways of connecting with them and encouraging them to express themselves innovatively through what they like most, the visual media. Great art can last even if you are transiting through utilitarian spaces. It doesn’t need the conditioned mind in the gallery.

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FASHION FILES Basant Panchami signals the arrival of spring, the time when everything is born afresh. In keeping with the season, the designers too give expression to their creativity and come out with collections that are playful and multi-faceted Abhishek Sharma’s Vana collection is inspired by the delicate rustic art of miniature paintings of flora and fauna. There is a play of monochrome, textured drapes and minute detailing while the textiles include sheer flowing chiffons fine voiles and self-textured georgettes. The embellishments include fine appliqués, along with intricate pearl and yarn detailing.

The embroidery on Shehla’s creations includes pearls, crystals and added hints of gold, as well as pastel tones, fuchsia and black.

Here is Isabelle Kaif in a glittering, rich, olive and silver lehenga/choli with a net dupatta.

JUST A POP

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Pops of colour make an appearance against a white background in Verandah, a collection by Anjali Patel Mehta.

Yami Gautam is the show stopper for Gauri & Nainika’s The Art of Latte collection. It features freeflowing silhouettes, in shades of red, pink and blushing nudes with bold floral prints. Chiffon, crepe de chine, organza and micro crepe have been used for high-low dresses with signature floor sweeping trains, billowing organza sashes and breezy wraparounds.

OF COLOUR

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Ruchika Sachdev’s Bodice Studio label has sharp tailoring with piped, pleated, seams, oversized blouses and colour blocking in navy and egg shell blue, as well as dresses with unique construction that highlight the insets and block methods. Ruchika’s menswear is well-crafted practical clothing.

Manoj Agarrwal’s Paakhi-Kaari collection is inspired by feathered birds. The silhouettes include lehengas stitched with spectacular flares in fluid fabrics.

There is heritage embroidery including appliqué work on nets and organzas.

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Misfit Panda’s The Secret Garden collection features sneakers, boots and heels in hues of pink, orange, green and blue. During a ramp walk introducing the season, PV Sindhu walked down the ramp in blingy gladiator shoes

Vaani Raghupathy Vivek’s Ayana collection is inspired by pristine magnolia flowers. The silhouettes range from flouncy lehengas, embroidered saris, highly embellished anarkalis to long maxi dresses in sheer organzas, silks and chiffons. Saina Nehwal was the showstopper for their show.

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Shivan & Narresh’s Patu Series captures the elements of Bengal’s Pattachitra art and juxtaposes it with the intrinsic Tholu Bommalata leather puppetry of Andhra Pradesh. The seamless mélange of the two tribal art forms on leather align it with the bold, confident and sophisticated lifestyle of millennials.

Asa Kazingmei’s Bionic collection features forward fashion where leather is embellished with studs and also painted, which offers a new dimension to the apparel. There are bikers’ jackets with fierce animal faces painted on the rear.

The denim space-age pair of jeans with multiple pockets and zippers is teamed with a black shirt.

Future Past 2019 is the title of Kunal Rawal’s collection which merges tradition with millennial elements. The concept of lines and dots that interprets the idea of Morse coding on Indian handlooms works really well for the hoodies and the kurta over-shirts. Bandhani is seen in innovative cubes and checks designs, instead of the conventional dots. The Bandhgala comes in a variety of options, worn over shirts and kurtas, while the waistcoat too, makes an appearance under jackets, overshirts and kurtas.

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Ujjawal Dubey’s Antar Agni creates the Balance collection with fibres like cotton Eri, Tussar and Muga silk woven by artisans from Assam. It has classic Indian motifs, which, at times, glitter with zari work. The colour palette features basic neutrals like ivory, grey and shots of green and citrine.

The basic Indian shapes like kurtas, low-crotch pants, bandhgalas, bundies and layered shirt kurtas have the distinct stamp of the designer.

Rohit Bal’s Guldastah uses organic fabrics like cotton, silk blends, Chanderis, silk organzas, silks and velvets with motifs of flowers like the sunflower, poppy, tulip and peonies that dazzle on an ivory and black background. Long, full-flared, floorlength kurtas, stately jackets, short flared blouses, capes, tiny quilted boleros, mini kalidar kurtis come together in a flurry of beauty.

There are long maxi skirts with giant blossoms all around the hemline.

Menswear is as ornate as the women’s.

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Isha Dhingra’s label Aikeyah uses embroidery techniques like phulkari, kantha, gara, aari, kashidakam and isha. The sheer, almost transparent layers have intricate embellishments.

The fine leaf embroidery on sheers appears on both the drop-waist dresses as well as the kimono style covers, worn with draped gowns in shades of white.

In Saaska & Kinni’s collection Nómada, leheriya prints are teamed with abstract floral prints and rampant micro-pleating.

There are also checkered prints from the traditional lungi. The fabrics are breezy cotton silks and organzas, with hints of velvet and brocades in rich burgundies, pinks, bright mustards and warm blues.

Kanchan More Sabharwal’s Northeast Breeze collection has free-flowing silhouettes.

The embellishments are woven on to breathable fabrics in an edgy manner. Raw textured materials are comfortable with flowing silhouettes. The assortment varies from backless tops to loose pants, skirts and maxi dresses.

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Mishru by Swapna Anumolu is Designers Sahib Dang and Sunayana’s a distinct mix of cultures where label EssÊ unveils Why so Offended, a line of the gota lampi from the deconstructed garments that are fluid as well Nizamian era has been as figure-hugging. Sleek trousers with faux reinvented to suit the millennial sari-drape are worn with textured bralet. look. It is used on lehengas and Micro pleating in black for a body-con dress, blouses. With white as the neutral belted with a broad band at the waist makes anchor for ivory, blush, mauve for a statement piece. The all-white, crinkled, and delicate grey tones, the knotted, jumpsuit is an interesting fashion colours are on the softer side. choice for a summer brunch.

Bunon, by Soumitra Mondal in consultation with Japanese designer Satoshi Ishii, features khadi and silk handlooms, which are creatively woven by 350 master weavers in Bardhaman, Murshidabad and Nadia in West Bengal. The all-white hand spun khadi collection is a definite trend- setter for Indian summers. The frilled skirts, pocketed stripped pants, teamed with peplum tops have kantha embroidery detailing along the sleeves while scarves add to the feminine touch of the extremely relaxed line. Tassels are incorporated into the stoles.

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Sailesh Singhania’s Shaahana collection features embroidered skirts with motifs like flowers, monkeys, deers, hunters and birds that are teamed with heavy jewellery. The polka dotted saris with rose gold embroidery and red borders are the focus of the collection.

Artarik Dev Varman focusses on black, red, white, ochrĂŠ and combines them with strips of Chanderi, khadi and hand-woven silk for resort wear separates that move effortlessly from day to evening wear.

There are strappy, long maxis, cool tunics and skirts.

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Anita Dongre’s Grassroot label’s line is an initiative for the “Sustainable Development for Northeast India”.

The beautiful fabrics woven from Eri, Muga and Matka fibres are the base for the ensembles, which are highlighted with block printing and embroidery. There is a mix of ethnic wear in a delicate combo of ivory and gold. Gotta patti work with a hint of sequins is used to give some sparkle and shimmer on the garments. There is a mélange of kurtas, loose pants, shararas, lehengas, anarkalis and long slim kurtas with flowing tulle palazzos and dupattas.

Raghavendra Rathore’s collection features the designer’s famed bandhgalas. The women’s and men’s ensembles are in complete unison. Using exclusive hand-woven textiles, silk and natural yarns the unconventional silhouettes definitely redefine the timeless styling by the designer.

White and black embroidered ladies bandhgala jackets in different lengths are paired with flouncy mini skirts.

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REGIONAL CUISINE

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The feisty woman rulers of Bhopal preferred their cuisine hearty and robust, bursting with flavour but not necessarily finely nuanced. They liked to hunt in the lush game-rich jungles of Madhya Pradesh and, post a shoot, their meat would be immediately chopped and slow-cooked on wood fires and enhanced with garlic, whole chillies and salt. Text and Photographs: GUSTASP and JEROO IRANI

THE

royal cuisine of the former princely state of Bhopal is as mysterious and, in a way, earthy as the four burqa-clad Begums who ruled the fiefdom at the heart of India, from 1819 to 1926. It has lurked in the shadows much like the littleknown Begums themselves, who governed from behind the purdah (all but one).

The feisty women rulers, who led armies into battle, hunted, played polo and even had male dancers perform for entertainment on star-lit evenings, governed with aplomb. Yet despite their seemingly “manly” pursuits, they found time to streamline their administration, work for the

upliftment of women and even metaphorically donned aprons and ruled over their royal kitchens.

“They were basically simple women; brilliant administrators who also gave Bhopal its cuisine,” said the elegant Sonia Rashid, a former royal, whose husband Nadir and his brother, the late Yawar Rashid, converted the heritage Jehan Numa Palace into a hotel and thus revived a forgotten magical world for their guests. They are the grandsons of General Obaidullah Khan (builder of the Jehan Numa Palace and the second son of Nawab Sultan Jehan Begum, the last queen. The General used the palace as his office.) His grandsons figured that a palace hotel would be the

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best way for them to share with the world their hitherto jealously guarded culinary legacy; much of it contained in hand-written recipes which the former royals are now trying to decode.

The Begums, it seems, preferred their cuisine hearty and robust, bursting with flavour but not necessarily finely nuanced. They liked to hunt in the lush game-rich jungles of Madhya Pradesh and, post a shoot, the meat would be immediately chopped and slow-cooked on wood fires and enhanced with garlic, whole chillies and salt, revealed Nadir Rashid, who is the chairman of the group. And so was born the dish, Junglee Maas, redolent even today with wild jungle scents. In the velvety dark and over roaring fires, dishes with a distinct shikari influence were birthed — Filfora, coarse keema cooked with whole spices and similarly, kaleji or liver. Excess meat from the hunt would be boiled with salt and garlic and then dried and stored for future consumption.

The female rulers did not have harems like their male counterparts elsewhere; nor concubines who sought to compete with each other to win royal favour with lip-smacking fare concocted in multiple kitchens. The Begums’ chefs, on the other hand, had to create palate-pleasing fare only for the Begum and her one solitary nawab, said Sikander Malik, a local historian, which perhaps contributed to the rustic simplicity of the cuisine.

While the Begums were not over-the-top, pleasure-seeking hedonists like the maharajas and nawabs elsewhere in the country, they did enjoy a few trappings of royalty — building lavish palaces, handsome mosques and were known for outré practices like leaving behind gold and silver threads for birds to build their nests. One of them even commissioned a Taj Mahal which took 13 years to build the completion of which was heralded with a three-year celebration.

However, the ancient origins of royal Bhopali food were rustic: it was rooted in the tribal fare that bubbled in the cooking pots of the region. It was only after the arrival of the founder of the dynasty, the swashbuckling Afghan soldier Dost Mohammad, who located his capital on the site of

the 11th century city of Bhojpal, that the luxury element and the spice-scented cuisine of Bhopal evolved. The infusion of Afghani and Mughal influences transformed the cuisine into what it is today, revealed Faiz Rashid, nephew of Nadir Rashid and a director of the group. The cuisine is largely meat-based though there are vegetarian options like leafy greens and other vegetables cooked in a basic spice mix of garlic, ginger, salt and broken whole chillies.

Over time, the cuisine grew more elaborate, but retained its robust gut-stuffing character. The royal kitchen shielded secrets like the Bhopali Rizzala which was cooked with game meat in the days of yore, but more likely chicken today, simmered with chillies, coriander and mint which give it its distinct green hue. Or exotica like the Besani Machli (fish fried with gram flour); grape leaf fritters, the delectable Gosht ka Halwa, minced

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meat pie or Egg halwa and even Attar Paan, a perfumed mouth freshener.

The Begums had their feminine foibles and Nawab Sultan Jehan Begum decreed that festivities had to be colour-coded. During the Jashn-e-Hariyali, the colour green ruled, so food, apparel and the décor had to be mantled in the given hue. Hence larger fistfuls of coriander and mint had to be added to the rizzalas. During the Jashn-e-Gulab, pink dominated the colour scheme and a rose petal would be added to the kheer.

Today, the chefs of the Jehan Numa Group of Hotels visit the Kothi, the official residence of the former royals, to hone their culinary skills, conjuring delights like Frontier Chapli Kebab, Peshawari style ground lamb patties; Khada Masala ka Gosht, a mutton dish fragrant with a variety of whole spices, including star anise; Chicken Korma, poultry in a sizzling rich gravy and the lightly flavoured and Iran-nuanced Bhopali biryani, where each grain of rice is perfectly cooked; the Nargisi Kofta, stuffed with kachumbar and the delicately

flavoured Bater (quail) Mussallam. The chefs pore over hand-written recipes from the time of the Begums to re-create the flavours that once wafted out of the royal kitchens in clouds of fragrance while a miscellany of cooks conjured gastronomic magic for the royals for generations.

We relished some of the fare prepared faithfully according to the kothi recipes, steeped in the history and terroir of the land, as the French would say of their wines. We dined at the Jehan Numa Palace’s iconic terrace restaurant Under the Mango Tree at candle-lit tables and under a starveined sky. At the Jehan Numa Retreat, in the outskirts of Bhopal and a gateway to the wild, the open-sided Under the Jamun Tree restaurant, fringed by fuzzy purple fountain grass, served royal Bhopali cuisine with flair… the ambience enhanced by glowing paraffin lamps suspended from the branches of the jamun tree.

Enveloped in nostalgia for an innocent world, the food had a cultural resonance; it channelled 18th century royal Bhopal via our taste buds.

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SMOKE SCREEN

CLEAR UP THE AIR

Bringing children to the forefront of the fight against pollution is essential to make a difference

DROPPING

air quality and increasing pollution in the metropolitan cities of the country is becoming a major concern among the environmentalists and the government. Despite several policies being devised and tested, it has not accrued to much change. The helplessness of government policies to curb the pollution probably implies that the change has to start from home.

Educating people is the only way to take the first step towards curbing the pollution. We all have to contribute to it, to substantiate and complement the actions being taken by the government.

In this scenario of taking action at home, children in school or college have to take a central position. These students are the future of the country and change has to emanate from them.

They may not be able to step out and become environmental activists, however they could start with small actions. Here are some ways that these students can contribute in clearing up the air.

TALK TO YOUR PARENTS ABOUT IT: Since students are in the learning phase, the criticality of the environmental hazards is fresher for you than your parents who are busy with their hectic work schedules. Talk to your friends, parents, neighbours, teachers and every possible person. Talking is the first step towards spreading awareness.

SPREAD AWARENESS ABOUT SMALL CHANGES: Your neighbourhood and your

vicinity are your first ground to bring about a change. Tell people about small changes like car pooling, stopping the engine when waiting at a red light, not firing crackers, or using and burning plastic are small changes that can be easily incorporated in daily life. As it is said, a big change comes with small steps. If you also want to go somewhere, try and walk or use a bicycle since cars are a major source of pollution.

Do not let your parents take out cars for you, if it is a small distance which can be covered over foot or bicycle.

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GO ECO-FRIENDLY: If children inculcate

the habit of using eco-friendly products early, it can help a long way. The first thing is to avoid using plastic as much as you can.

Did you know one million sea birds and 1,00,000 marine mammals die each year because of plastic pollution in our oceans?

Also, plastic contain additives that can easily contaminate the air in our environment.

Moreover, it is extremely hazardous when it is burned. When plastic is produced, it’s made from toxic materials such as benzene and vinyl hydrochloride. This, when burnt, can cause life-threatening diseases like cancer and asthma.

In your school or college, use stainless steel drinking bottles instead of plastic ones.

Use reusable coffee cups, recycled toilet tissue and biodegradable waste bags and take a step towards keeping your environment pollution free.

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FOCUS ON ORGANIC FOOD: If your parents are not aware of the importance of organic food, teach them and ask them to get it at home, as much as possible. Organic food doesn’t contain any kind of pesticide or use chemicals that harm the land, air or water. A research from the University of Virginia in collaboration with The Organic Center shows that organic farming can help in the reduction of nitrogen pollution on a global scale. Also, when the stubble is burnt after harvesting, the chemicals used in inorganic farming cause even more air pollution as dangerous gases.

PROMOTE TREE PLANTATION: Students are taught since the beginning of their schools that more the trees, more the fresh oxygen and less the pollution. It is time to implement that. Get children of your building or society together and start

planting one tree at every house and also in the corners of nearby roads or areas. This small step will go a long way in bringing down the pollution.

SPREAD AWARENESS ABOUT QUITTING SMOKING: Smoking is critical factor when it comes to air pollution. A cigarette’s smoke causes 10 times more air pollution than a diesel car exhaust. If you see someone smoking, whether it is in your family or in your surroundings, do not hesitate from asking them to quit. Tell them about the health and environmental hazards that the habit comes with.

Air pollution should be a concern for all and curbing it should thus be the responsibility of all.

We all should pledge to give every small bit to bring about a huge change.

— The author is Vineet P Yadav, a social activist and anthropologist

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NUMBERGAME

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Sanjay Jumaani Numerologist

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COUNT YOUR FATE

NUMBER 1 (Ruled by Sun, people born on the 1st, 10th, 19th and 28th) Take pride in the faith people have in you and your capabilities. Try not to take it for granted. Measure the situations around you positively and you might be able to see a new meaning to each. Professional commitments will keep you occupied which might affect your personal life.

NUMBER 4 (Ruled by Uranus, people born on the 4th, 13th, 22nd and 31st) Your helpful nature and compassion might help you in building new relationships.

However, boredom might creep in soon making you seek new ways of communication and networking. Avoid being too idealistic and accept things the way they are. People will like your altered approach to life.

NUMBER 7 (Ruled by Neptune, people born on the 7th, 16th and 25th) You will be able to redefine certain relationships. Old friends might get in touch filling you with joy. Family life will go on smoothly. Colleagues might try to undermine your efforts at work. But don’t stress as seniors will be able to see through things and accord you the appreciation you deserve.

NUMBER 2 (Ruled by Moon, people born on the 2nd, 11th, 20th and 29th) You probably are more comfortable and productive when competition is less. This is just an instinct you have. Try to ignore things that might irritate you or make you think negatively. Look at the bright side of things and move ahead with conviction. Situations will be in your favour soon.

NUMBER 5 (Ruled by Mercury, people born on the 5th, 14th and 23rd) Life looks a bit more structured and in sync than it probably was a few weeks back. There will be clarity in professional matters.

However, personal relationships might need to be given more time as loved ones will be demanding. Financial issues will get settled, probably permitting you more cash to spend.

NUMBER 8 (Ruled by Saturn, people born on the 8th, 17th and 26th) Avoid getting away from challenges in life and learn to take some risks. This will not only assist you to put things in a better perspective but also help you overcome your inhibitions.

Spend time with loved ones to relax tensed nerves. You can also plan a vacation with them for some time away from work.

NUMBER 3 (Ruled by Jupiter, people born on the 3rd, 12th, 21st and 30th) Past experiences will come handy while taking important decisions. Try seeking advice of your colleagues as well. Friends might also chip in and provide some interesting suggestions that might be useful. Loved ones will be supportive and encourage your professional enterprises at every step.

NUMBER 6 (Ruled by Venus, people born on the 6th, 15th and 24th) Creative people will come across individuals who might serve as a catalyst in realising their dreams in life. Be objective in judging people in their times of distress. Try to tolerate their extremities. Take more time to analyse the situation around you to minimise the chances of your criticism.

NUMBER 9 (Ruled by Mars, people born on the 9th, 18th and 27th) People planning to start with entrepreneurial activities might find an outlet for their dreams.

Try to focus on one goal to accomplish things at a faster rate. Family life will go on smoothly and relationships will flourish. Singles might come across someone interesting and worth the time.

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GURUSPEAK

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Sri Sri Ravi Shankar Spiritual Guru

EMBRACE THE OTHER With the right multi-religious, multi-cultural and value-based education, the threat or fear of a person with an identity different from ours can disappear

SOME

years ago, I went to Iraq to take stock of our relief and rehabilitation work there. We were asked to stay in the Green Zone, which was marked as safe. There were 12 vehicles and two tankers for our security. I told them that I want to go to the Red Zone as I could not do anything sitting in the safety of the Green Zone. They replied that the Red Zone was quite risky as there had been several bomb blasts there a few days back. But I insisted. They were worried about me but since I was their guest, they could not refuse.

There, I went to a village that had only Shias because all the Sunnis had been driven away from there. They welcomed me. I sat with them, spoke to them and told them that I wanted to bring a guest that evening. They readily agreed. When the time came, I brought with me a revered Sunni Imam who was among those driven away from that village. When they met and spoke to each other, the villagers decided that they would welcome back all the 8,000 families that had been driven away from there.

It is a matter of understanding people’s sensitivities while being sensible at the same time. This can happen only if we are peaceful. In the same way, world peace

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cannot come through high level policies. It grows from each human being. It is peaceful individuals who can make a peaceful world.

Often, we see that people who talk about inner peace are complacent. They say, “Whatever is happening, let it happen.” They are resigned to fate and everything including the realities of the world.

They are happy being reclusive. Getting into a cave hole is what appears to be peace. They want to run away to the Himalayas or some quiet corner where nobody can disturb them. However, this peace has no value.

On the other hand, a dynamism that has no thought attached to it, which is full of agitation and has brought pain to everyone around has no value either. The need of the hour today and every day is a combination of inner peace and outer dynamism.

When there is a conflict, the first thing that happens is a breakdown of communication. Second, there develops a deficiency of trust. To bridge this gap, to solve any conflict, you need a channel of communication, a way to connect with all the sides of the conflict. There are some who are extremely sensitive and lose their temper in no time and then there are those who think they are ‘sensible’ and righteous to such an extent that they do not care about the impact of their actions or inactions.

Neither can make good communicators in the world.

What we need is a blend of sensitivity and sensibility. One of the most important

characteristics of a civilised and peaceful person is how best can you connect with everyone.

Corruption begins where a sense of belongingness or a connection ends. You will notice that an officer who has been sent to work in another place feels a sense of kinship with someone from his own city or state. This officer will not take bribe from someone who hails from his city as he has this sense of belongingness. But if someone else walks in, then he is likely to ask for a bribe because there is no connection. It is similar to how you probably behave when you go to America or Europe or even a neighbouring country, and you meet someone who says, “I also studied in XYZ college.” What happens to you? You feel a sense of connection. It is this connection that improves communication. When communication is better, conflicts simply disappear.

‘The other’ is always a threat. But with the right multi-religious, multi-cultural and value-based education the threat or fear can disappear.

Ultimately the thought process changes when perception changes, opening the door for cooperation and peace.

All of us have multiple identities. First and foremost, we are part of one light and one human race. Our subsequent identities are gender, nation, and religion. There is violence in the world because our priorities have been reversed. For these identities to be in proper order of priority, we need inner peace which makes us sensitive to others’ needs and sensible to respond appropriately to them.

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FITNESS

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Research indicates that the parameters that affect ageing are metabolism, the food that we eat, breathing patterns, sleep and relaxation. Yoga works internally to maintain these so that we age gracefully Bharat Thakur is a yoga guru and founder of Artistic Yoga

SLOW DOWN THE CLOCK

EVERYONE

wants to look younger. Much research is being done on anti-ageing and there are many cosmetics and techniques available that enable it externally. The science of yoga accepts ageing as a natural part of life. Research indicates that the parameters that affect ageing are metabolism, the food that we eat, breathing patterns, sleep and relaxation. Yoga works internally to maintain these so that we age gracefully.

Metabolism declines with age and causes not just indigestion but other issues such as loss of muscle mass. Metabolism works better with muscle mass. In yoga, the combination of pranayama (breathing techniques) and yogic asanas (postures) helps not only to get our internal organs and systems working better but also to build up and maintain this muscle mass. One can start at any age and experience the benefits of yoga.

We tend to eat to 100 per cent of our stomach capacity. On top of that, we drink water and then we try to breathe. The result is that the stomach's peristaltic movement that digests food, slows down. With ageing, intestinal peristalsis also slows down and there are problems like constipation, bloating and gastritis. If we restrict the intake of food, we lose nutrients. Yoga says you need to eat well but less. It recommends we eat to 50 per cent of our capacity, drink 25 per cent water and leave 25 per cent space to breathe. Food determines how we look. So eat fibre-rich and nutritious food, but in less quantity.

Breathing is a vital body process as the oxygen and prana (life force) we inhale, affect both body and brain. The ancient yogis studied nature and saw that animals with a slow breath rate (eg elephants, tortoises), lived longer. Those with fast breath rates (eg dogs, birds, rabbits), had shorter spans. Yogic breathing techniques correct, deepen and slow down the breath rate. This keeps the heart strong, organs in good working order and the body and mind relaxed.

If the memory stays sharp, the ageing process can be slowed down. To improve memory, you have to work with the mind and reduce cortisol levels.

Secreted in the brain when we are stressed, cortisol disrupts the internal homeostasis of the brain, insulin levels and other glands in the body. Yoga decreases cortisol levels and reduce stress.

When you do yoga regularly, repair takes place at cellular level. It makes you stronger and more flexible, helps your body’s systems function better. Yoga will also reduce stress and anxiety, influence your moods and energy levels and help you age gracefully.

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SARNAGAT MUDRA o Sit back on your heels, back straight, hands on your knees o Breathing in, raise both arms above your head o Exhale slowly as you bend forward till your forehead touches the ground. Breathe normally, relax the body o Hold for 10-30 seconds breathing normally o Breathe in as you slowly come up, arms over head o Breathe out as you lower your arms to start position

BENEFITS: o Stretches the back and upper body o Improves blood flow to the head and increases the supply of blood and oxygen to brain cells o Energises and relaxes the upper body

BHUJANGASANA o Lie on your stomach, chin on ground, feet together, palms beside shoulders, elbows tucked in o Breathe in as you stretch your upper body upwards, straightening elbows and arching back to look up o Hold for 10-30 seconds, breathing normally o Inhale, exhale as you slowly come down BENEFITS: o Removes stiffness from chest, shoulders, neck o Stretches the abdominal muscles o Removes lower back pain by strengthening lower back muscles

PARVATASANA o Lie on your stomach, palms down and level with shoulders, elbows bent and tucked close to body o Breathe in, exhale and raise your hips high, tuck chin in and look at your navel. Heels are flat on floor o Breathe normally BENEFITS: o Releases tension in the spine and body o Strengthens nerves and muscles in the arms and legs o Tones the spinal nerves and stimulates circulation in the upper body

MATSYA KRIDASANA o Lie on right side o Bend left leg and bring knee up as high as possible to chest, right leg is straight o Turn slightly, bring right elbow under the head o Keep left elbow on left knee o Interlock the fingers o Breathe normally and relax o Go back to start position and repeat other side o Do as long as comfortable BENEFITS: o Excellent relaxation pose o Relaxes the lower back, perineum and legs o Relieves sciatic pain o Releases tension in the whole body and mind o Stretches abdominal regions, helps digestion

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HOTWHEELS

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Kushan Mitra Auto & tech expert

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THE TALLEST BOY

The third-generation WagonR is a lot nicer than you expect it to be, indeed it is one of most practical Maruti cars available today

THE

Maruti-Suzuki WagonR was never a car that you could call sexy. Back in 1999, when the first version of the car was launched, it came in as a response to the Daewoo Matiz and Hyundai Santro, and well, as far as looking like what it says on a package, the WagonR was a breadbox. The tall-boy design was there so that space could be maximised on a small platform. But practicality

meant that you paid a price when it came to looks and both the WagonR and the Hyundai Santro were never lookers.

So three months after Hyundai brought the Santro back from the dead, Maruti has brought in the third-generation of the WagonR. While it might never have scored on looks, Maruti managed to sell over 22 lakh WagonRs in India in just over two decades making it one of India’s most successful

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cars. So the newest WagonR had a lot to live up to when it was launched, well it does and how! But first a few clarifications, the thirdgeneration WagonR is not based on the Japanese model of the same car. It uses the same ‘Hearttech A’ platform of the Swift, which has some great positives. For one, the car is a lot wider and also longer but it is the additional 140mm of width that you really appreciate both up front and at the back. The additional space means that the WagonR is a proper threeseat car at the back, as anyone who has been in an earlier one would know; the rear seat of the car was not what you would have called spacious.

The shared platform also means another positive, which is that the WagonR handles very well indeed. Now handling and WagonR are not words that anyone would put in a sentence together but this car is really nice. In Udaipur, where we were driving this new car, there are some back roads to Badi Talab, a lake on the outskirts of the city. These roads resemble a rally special stage and while the WagonR is still a tall car, it went through corners with aplomb. I never thought I’d say this but it was an absolute hoot to drive.

The engines in the car are the tried and tested K10 and of this generation, Maruti has also fitted the bigger K12 engine, which is the one we drove both in manual and with an AMT gearbox. The car, predictably is geared for fuel economy and what economy! While driving the car on highways and inside Udaipur city over 120 kilometres, I saw an average mileage of 20.1 kilometres per litre. Sure,

it was winter so no airconditioning, limited traffic and a lot of highway cruising but still that is an impressive number any which way you look at it.

Maruti has also given an app that helps you connect to the car and shares all driving and vehicle details on the app including navigation. This is particularly useful on some older devices that do not have support for smartphones using CarPlay or Android Auto. The Smartplay infotainment system has also been updated with a cleaner and better layout and importantly a lot faster as well. This system will find its way into newer Maruti vehicles as they get updated. There are some small niggles here and there, the rear-seat headrests are a bit uncomfortable and while loading lip is low, the rear hatch is very high and if you are a bit short, the problem is that you might have difficulty lowering the hatch. But these are small niggles to be honest.

So if you are looking for a small Maruti today, in fact any small car, the new WagonR is a surprisingly good bet. Priced at between `4.19 and `5.16 lakh with the K10 engine and `4.89 and `5.69 lakh for the K12 variant and both engine options coming with Maruti’s AMT automatic system called the AGS, the car is also priced at a sweet spot against the competition, including the Santro. Indeed, as the new Santro isn’t a real tall-boy anymore, if a tall-boy is what you really want and there is a good case for wanting one thanks to convince, this is it.

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CUPID CALL

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LOVE LORES Flowers, jewellery, chocolates might be the traditional presents on Valentine’s Day. But the market has opened up and there are more variants on offer.

Here are some options both for old schoolers and millennials

MINAWALA: A diamond-studded bracelet with a ruby at the centre scores love all. This one from Minawala will capture your lady love’s heart.

RK JEWELLERS: Pick up an exclusive platinum love band made for couples this Valentine’s Day. Called Eternity Love Bands, these symbolise the love ties that you have with your partner. RK Jewellers have added diamonds to give the right amount of sparkle to make both of you shine.

VARDA GOENKA: This ring from Varda Goenka, fine jewels by Diagold, from the “Dazzling Love” collection is opulent.

Crafted with a ruby placed at the centre of diamonds, this is a dazzler for sure.

JAIPUR WATCH COMPANY: What’s the biggest gift that you can give to a person that you love? It’s time. So a watch designed by Jaipur Watch Company, which is made on a One Rupee silver coin from the British India era, is just appropriate.

The coin is the centerpiece placed inside a specially created coloured dial with raised metal indices.

The watch ticks on an automatic movement from Miyota Citizen. The front crystal is a domed sapphire and even the back crystal is a sapphire glass. There are colour variants in the collection with a matching precious stone on the crown — red has a ruby, green comes with emerald and black comes with a black sapphire. It’s 46 mm in size.

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FIORELLA: For those who like to serenade with flowers but always worry that they are ephemeral, Fiorella, a flower boutique has launched Infinity Roses that have spent a little longer growing on the plant. As a result, the heads are a little or even a lot bigger, the stems are taller and stronger. Just the right gift on this special day.

GODREJ BEESWAX: Blame it on Fawad or Ranbir but beards are here to stay. And it’s time to ensure that your man’s facial hair stays in place. Gift a beard wax that contains Ultra-Control Beeswax from Godrej which gives it a long-lasting hold to bearded men.

SWAROVSKI: The Lifelong Bow Necklace uses the motif as a flirtatious and fun symbol of love. Sophisticated yet playful and youthful, this necklace exudes cool, classic romance with its sleek lines, and rhodium plating.

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BRUNE: A belt by Brune in black leather with a rose gold square buckle, which is hand-painted, will make the man complement your taste.

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FRAZER AND HAWS: Capture the good times in this silver-plated photo frame in the Patanga design.

VERSUS KALK BAY: Gift the Versus Kalk Bay, a new watch from Versus Versace for young, urban rebels, unafraid to stand out. Bold size, casual and stylish in its feel, the watch catches the eye with its geometric dotted pattern. It is inspired by a sporty aesthetic.

The large date display stands out on the dial while the Lion relief and the logo give the watch its Versus Versace identity.

MEVO SLIMFIT: Take a pledge to be fit together with fitness trackers. MevoFit Slim HR have been designed for women as it comes with a period tracker, ovulation tracker and coach feature. The MevoFit Echo Ultra is sleek, stylish and powerful smart watch, available in black with a comfortable design. It has a soft and skin friendly TPU medical grade strap with easy to fix and secure buckle.

For both, the watch is OLED with single watch face that can be activated with slight gestures.

MORA TAARA: For those who prefer gifts which go beyond the usual flowers and jewellery, there are wall plates from Mora Taara, a company that designs, curates and sells individually-crafted products. With a host of colours and designs, there is one that would match each decor and taste.

THE BODY SHOP: Treat someone to the sweetest and fruitiest flavour with Strawberry Ultimate collection, beautifully boxed and ready to gift. It’s the easiest, most fun and thoughtful way to tell her that you are thinking of her.

The facial mask duo is a 100 per cent vegan, athome multi-masking duo. The Himalayan Charcoal Purifying Glow Mask is enriched with bamboo charcoal from the Himalayas and Community Trade tea tree oil from Kenya, to leave skin feeling tingly and purified.

The British Rose Fresh Plumping Mask is enriched with real rose petals, rose essence, rosehip oil from Chile and Community Trade organic aloe vera from Mexico, to re-plump skin with moisture and reveal a dewy glow.

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BLITHE SPIRIT

COCKTAIL

HOUR It is not just about classics or grammar anymore. Turn things around in a splash of liqueurs and toppings

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SO

what will shake and stir things up on the cocktail front this year? Well there’s the topping with several layers of complexity. And then there’s playing around with nature’s bowl of fruits and vegetables, now nosing our way through hints and accents.

Brian Masilionis, a certified specialist of wine and spirits from the Society of Wine Educators, Director of National Accounts, On-Premise, for Southern Glazer’s Wine & Spirits, led a research effort to understand tastebuds across the US. “What we know is that consumers now expect more complex and layered flavours in cocktails.

However, while they want to be surprised and delighted, they still want to stay in their comfort zone. This explains why some of the most successful on-premise programmes start with a classic cocktail as a base, then use an everexpanding range of ingredients to make the drink more interesting,” he said.

Consumers are buzzing with coffee-based drinks, like this cocktail that features cold brew coffee and coffee stout, along with Campari, tonic, and vanilla PHOTO: BUSINESS WIRE

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DRINKING YOUR VEGGIES While consumers have long embraced healthy green juicing and smoothies, vegetable flavours such as cucumber, celery, peppers and peas are now being used to add a new twist to familiar cocktails. Bartenders are also using spirits that have vegetal characteristics, such as Green Chartreuse or its milder, slightly sweeter, lower-alcohol cousin, Yellow Chartreuse. Aquavit, a spirit often infused with caraway and dill, is also being used to add vegetal flavour. Using vegetables and vegetal spirit ingredients, such as bell peppers, beets, and snap peas, adds fresh, bright flavours and imparts unique, vibrant colours.

Health-conscious consumers can drink their veggies when they try this cocktail featuring bell pepper, mint, honey, lemon and gin PHOTO: BUSINESS WIRE

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THE BARTENDER BARISTA Coffee and tea as cocktail ingredients are being leveraged for their smoothness, earthiness, subtle smokiness, and other flavour tones as well as for their strong backbone, which stands up to more assertive spirits. While cold brew primarily delivers a singular flavour profile, teas from around the world offer versatility and more nuanced flavours. These range from the subtle and delicate aromas of white tea; slight bitterness of many black teas (or subtle smokiness of Lapsang souchong); roasty notes from green teas like houjicha; soft, grassy flavours in matcha tea; or the range of flavours and aromas of oolong tea. Then there's the incredibly diverse flavors extracted from herbal and floral teas including hibiscus or chamomile.

TOASTING TO TEXTURE Cocktails with proper texture result in drinks that feel substantial. Ice is one way to deliver the correct texture and flavour in a cocktail, in addition to providing a visual impact. For example, large blocks of ice minimise dilution and can also be branded or stamped.

Medium sized cubes continue to be used for a variety of all-purpose cocktails, and shaved or nugget ice is being used in large part to often dilute boozy, tiki-styled cocktails. Finally, blended cocktails continue to grow in popularity. Beyond ice, texture can also be modified by using egg whites to not only add a foam presentation, but also a soft texture to a variety of citrus-forward cocktails.

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WINE LOVERS REJOICE Wines are great on their own, but they also lend themselves well to cocktail development.

When used in cocktails, wines reduce the need to add excessive amounts of alcohol (that can make a drink too boozy) and can add a softer sweetness than syrups. These include fortified wines like ports and vermouths; subtle nutty or creamy sherries; crisp and clean red and white wines; and sparkling wines for bubbly texture. And red wine, traditionally just for sangria, is being used to create colorful, flavourful cocktails at some of the most innovative watering holes.

IT’S GOOD TO BE BITTERS No longer just to enjoy after dinner, amaro and bitters are being used more and more due to their ability to tone down and balance drinks that are too tart or sweet.

One example is Aperol — a bitter orange liqueur that adds astringency, bitterness, and also a wonderful color. Cynar is an artichoke based bittersweet liqueur known for its versatility and distinctive flavour; its taste is enriched by an infusion of 13 herbs and plants. The name of the drink derives from the botanical name for artichoke, as artichoke leaves lend the distinctive flavor. Angostura bitters, traditionally used as an accent ingredient, is also making its way to the forefront as a major ingredient in cocktails.

— AP

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SIGN-OFF

By RINKU GHOSH

F

GOOD OLD THALI

or all our environmental sensitivities and the need to reduce our carbon footprint, rarely do we look beyond the atmospherics — pollution, air quality, industrial and development monstrosities — and at ourselves, more importantly what we eat sitting atop the food chain. The latest Lancet study warns us that if we do not change our patterns of consumption and work towards a “planet friendly” diet, then we could not leave enough to support the 10 billion population that we are expected to become by 2050 as the earth can produce only so much and no further. All we need to do is shift from meat to vegetables, cut down on sugar and processed foods and eat what we can grow if we are to bequeath reserves and prevent 11 million premature deaths, the result of our current dietary habits. This would simultaneously reduce the damaging effects of climate change, soil erosion, deforestation and loss of biodiversity. In everyday life, a conscientious diet — as advocated by the report that relied on experts from around the world, including India — means halving red meat and sugar, doubling nuts, fruits, vegetables, legumes, lentils and chickpeas and apportioning 35 per cent of our calorie requirements from whole grains, tubers and plant proteins. If you are a diehard carnivore, then nutritionists estimate that you could just about provision for seven grams of red meat, 29 grams of poultry and 28 grams of fish per day. In short a nugget here and there. And if we are wondering what all this means in real terms, then one needs to internalise that food production is responsible for up to a third of global greenhouse gas emissions.

A recent blog post from the World Resources Institute, a global sustainability think-tank, warns that agriculture alone could raise the Earth’s average temperature more than 1.5°C above than in preindustrial times if we don’t change our eating habits.

This can be well understood from the fact that a simple non-vegetarian sandwich, from acquiring the land for a farm, feeding the animals whose meat you might prefer, to harvesting the wheat to processing, packaging and refrigerating the finished product

and transporting it piles up carbon debts. A recent study on the warming potential of animal-heavy diets by the University of Waterloo in Canada has even quantified how omnivores generate emissions equivalent to driving nearly 15,000 km! The World Resources Institute corroborated this with its finding that producing meat uses 20 times the land and generates 20 times the emissions as producing beans per gram of protein.

While all of these may be well-nigh alarming, for us Indians it is not too difficult a target to meet considering that our traditional diet patterns were based on the sustainable logic of ayurveda. In fact, the south Indian breakfast platter has often been rated internationally as the most wholesome start-the-day platter there is. And it certainly stays away from animal protein. Ayurveda practitioners have for long understood that the stomach of human beings, by virtue of being foragers and food gatherers at one time, is more conditioned to plant food and the latest obsession with animal protein actually does more harm than good, overloading our system. In fact, we have an existing roadmap for a sustainable food future. Already our chefs have gotten together to revive our legume and grain heritage, something with proven nutritional benefits, and create a smart food network of the hospitality industry, advocacy groups, food producers and marketers to promote sustainable and farmerfriendly food. Gastronomic tourism is being promoted by even the government to revive our native foods and crops, something which could help our farmers, who have lost out on their livelihood by growing marketfriendly rather than geologically-appropriate vegetables and cereals. A traditional Indian diet, with its dependence on plant products and a moderation of animal protein, could well turn out to be the answer the world is looking for.

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