Exotica March 2022

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Delve into the best of travel, hospitality, wellness, food, fashion, interiors and more every month with Exotica, the monthly luxury lifestyle magazine. Read interviews with trendsetters, celebrities, industry leaders and authors to deep dive into what it took to get them there.

HERE COMES THE SUN

EXECUTIVE EDITOR NAVIN UPADHYAY Chief Operating Officer Abhishek Saxena 09818600128 EDITORIAL Consultant Editor Saimi Sattar Chief Designer Anand Singh Rawat 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 Madhukar Saxena & Divyesh Kothari Managers Bharat Singh Sajwan, Prabhakar Pathak & Barun Choudhary MUMBAI OFFICE General Manager Devendra Adhikari KOLKATA OFFICE Vice President Suzanna Roy HYDERABAD OFFICE V Sunil Kumar General Manager (Circulation) Rajeev Gautam Printed and published by Navin Upadhyay 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.

Executive Editor: Navin Upadhyay.

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MARCH ON, MARCH

WHEN

we have been through two surreal years, a return to almost complete normalcy seems hard to digest. Teetering on the edge, we are suspended in what appears to be a nowhere-space, unclear about what we can do or can’t. Whether we need to wear a mask at a social do or not; if it is safe to catch the latest film (or even The Godfather in its 50th year) at a theatre or should one still stick to the security of one’s home while viewing it on an OTT platform of one’s choosing. The conundra that we face are everyday musings. But then, life is all about embracing change. And it is time, that we finally take the plunge, even if it is tentatively.

Our pieces, this month, are all about taking chances. Tahir Raj Bhasin took one with a cameo towards the end of a film in 2013 and nine years later, here he is riding on three back-to-back hits. Coming from a background that had no connections whatsoever in the film industry, he has certainly hit the ball out of the boundary.

One of our solo women travellers decided to head out for a dunebashing session on a whim in Jaisalmer. An avid explorer, the feeling of trepidation that she was confronted with — in the face of an open display of machismo — shows how the opportunities that are available to women even in the most liberated of spaces can often be helmed in.

And this has nothing to do with their abilities. Another traveller explores the much-visited destination of Manali and finds out how the same hill stations can be experienced in different ways. There are options for each kind of visitor — the adventure seeker, the adrenaline junkie, the relaxed traveller and the workaholic. Yet another wanderer lands up in Haridwar and dips her toes not just into the pious Ganga but also the spirituality that runs through the city like an intangible backbone.

The jungle holds out tales that are numerous, secretive and elusive.

However, there are also rules that one must follow while entering the forest. An expert has some advice on the law of the land.

Sustainability is a trend that is unlikely to go out of fashion.

And our weddings happen to be one of the most wasteful expenditures that one incurs in a lifetime. It is estimated that 40 per cent of the food is wasted at each. So, it is time to buckle up and go down the sustainability route. Exotica holds some tips and tricks within its covers.

Holi is around the corner and our chefs have you covered with some step-by-step deliciousness.

Read the issue for all this and more...

Do zustrichi!

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I N S I D E MARCH 2022 VOLUME 16 NO 5

[p28] Food coma [p42] Sensorial vacation Festive eats [p44] Colours of food Eco corner [p48] Green wedding Inner spaces [p52] Transform to transition

Celeb talk [p10] Rise of Raj: Tahir Raj Bhasin Travel bug Wheeling through sands of time: Jaisalmer [p18] Magic, mirth & myths [p28] Riding on the wild side [p38] Pious point Quiet flows the Ganga [p32] TOTAL NUMBER OF PAGES 64 INCLUDING COVER

COVER: VIEW OF WEST COAST, LA DIGUE, SEYCHELLES PHOTO COURTESY: TORSTEN DICKMANN

CONTRIBUTORS

Sri Sri Ravi Shankar [p56]

GURUSPEAK: Drop your desire & surrender Bharat Thakur [p58] FITNESS: Cleansing practises

[p44]

Sanjay Jumaani [p61] NUMBER GAME: Count your fate Follow us on:

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FAVOURITE HAUNTS OF STYLISH PEOPLE

I prefer Issey Miyake for its fresh notes.

PHOTO: ISHAAN NAIR

Tough one. I have lots. Surely You’re Joking Mr. Feynman! because my father gave me that when I was a child and it helped spark my fascination with science.

I’m also a huge mystery fan so of course Sherlock Holmes and Hercule Poirot.

The Matrix because I love sci-fi and philosophy. It also had some brilliant visuals and music.

I’ve always wanted to go to Iceland because a lot of my favourite music comes from there.

I think it’s the beautiful empty landscapes that I connect with.

KABEER AKA OAFF, a music producer, composer and multi-instrumentalist, bridges the gap between atmospheric electronica and accessible, feel-good pop. His compositions for Gehraiyaan are making waves

It’s a tie between the Aam ras at my grandparents’ home that I would eat almost every day through the summer growing up or the Pindi chole that Shivam bhaiya (our cook) makes at home.

TRAVEL NEWS

SEYCHELLES: THE PERFECT PARADISE FOR NATURE LOVERS

ISOLATED

for millennia, the Seychelles Islands exist as a chain of Noah’s Arks, harbouring some of the rarest species of flora and fauna on the planet.

Trees covering the granitic islands and 1,500 species of flowering plants contain some of the rarest specimens on the planet many of which are not found anywhere else on Earth.

Several islands are home to birds found only there. Altogether, the islands are home to 13 species and 17 sub-species of birdlife that occur nowhere else in the world. Much of the extraordinary biodiversity may be discovered on its extensive network of guided walks and trails as well as in its National Parks.

With over 15 trails to choose from, Seychelles has become known for its nature walks and trails.

For nature lovers, each network of walks and trails crisscrossing the islands of Mahé, Praslin, La Digue are different and exhibit the wealth of the islands.

overlooks the east coast of the main island up to the country’s international airport. The trail is covered underneath luxuriant growth of the forest, containing many endemic palms, higher up the area is covered in boulders. One can locate the country’s smallest frog and endemic non-venomous snakes.

ANSE MAJOR TRAIL, MAHÉ: If you are looking for a relaxing beach day at the end of a hike, then the Anse Major trail will not disappoint. A relatively easy walk, traversing through giant boulders makes way to the isolated beach of Anse Major.

The walk to the beach and back takes around three hours but the balmy blue sea and a lagoon make a perfect spot for a picnic.

Here are some of the top nature trails to pick from on your next holiday: COPOLIA LODGE TRAIL, MAHÉ: Located in Morne Seychellois National Park, Copolia Trail is one of the most popular hiking spots in Seychelles. It

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QATAR TOURISM ANNOUNCES SUPERYACHT LUXURY CRUISES

VALLÉE DE MAI, PRASLIN: Seychelles has two UNESCO World Heritage sites and the legendary Vallée de Mai is one of the world’s smallest natural UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Millions of years of isolation have led to the evolution of many unique species in this forest. A living remnant of the ancient palm forests, the Vallée de Mai is the green heart of Praslin Island and contains Seychelles’ largest intact forest of the endemic coco de mer palm. One could spot the rare Seychelles Black Parrot too.

FOND FERDINAND, PRASLIN: Even though the Vallée de Mai is undoubtedly the main attraction of Praslin, the alternative Fond Ferdinand Nature Reserve is also worth a visit. This 122-hectare park is six times larger than the Vallée de Mai and has more endemic plant species and animals to discover. From the elevated lookout point, there are endless views of Praslin, as well as several other Inner Seychelles Islands, including Curieuse, La Digue, Coco Island, and many more.

NID D'AIGLE, LA DIGUE: Climb up to the Nid d'Aigle when in La Digue. This 333-metre 'mountain' (1,092 ft) is the highest peak on La Digue and is also known as the Eagle's Nest. The path winds through soft forest floors, granite boulders, and red earth. The highest point offers a view of Praslin, Félicité, and Marianne Island.

QATAR

Tourism has announced new superyacht luxury cruises in partnership with Emerald Cruises, sailing from Doha launching in January 2023.

Emerald Azzurra will offer seven-night, eight-day itineraries from Doha, with stops at Sir Bani Yas Island, Abu Dhabi; Khasab, Oman; Fujairah, UAE; Zighy Bay, Oman and Dubai and vice versa.

Pre and post-cruise tours are available where guests can opt for a three-day package to explore the sites and culture of Qatar. Highlights include the National Museum of Qatar, designed by French architect Jean Nouvel, in the style of a desert rose; or a visit to Souq Waqif, to purchase local souvenirs and spices. Visitors can take a trip into the desert and visit the Inland Sea before enjoying dune bashing and a camel ride.

The news comes as construction continues on the new Grand Cruise Terminal located in central Doha, near the Museum of Islamic Art and Souq Waqif. The terminal will have the capacity to host two megaships and will offer various attractions, including an aquarium and art gallery.

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MUST-SEE WORLD

-class aquariums, interactive science exhibits and some of the country’s most diverse art collections make San Francisco’s museums a must for any visitor. But it’s not just the collections that are magnificent; there’s also critically acclaimed architecture and some of the most breath-taking vistas in the city. Here are some extraordinary museums in the city: AQUARIUM OF THE BAY: On PIER 39, the Aquarium of the Bay holds out encounters with marine life. Stroll through 300 feet of clear acrylic tunnels holding 7,00,000 gallons of Bay water, touch tidepool animals, and delight in viewing playful river otters up close. Available with San Francisco CityPASS.

GALLE FORT HOTEL REOPENS

THE

two-year refurbishment of Galle Fort Hotel coincides with its 20th anniversary and was done, working in line with the Sri Lankan Ministry of Archaeology, to ensure that the building’s 400-year-old Dutch walls and facade were not damaged during the work. The hotel, which threw open its doors to visitors on February 23, has created a brighter and more vibrant feel throughout the property, while maintaining the original aesthetic of the Dutch colonial past, within the UNESCO World Heritage Galle Fort.

The heritage hotel is located inside a UNESCO World Heritage Fort. There has been a complete rework of the roofing as well as a massive overhaul of the wooden flooring that spreads across the property.

The original fittings, doors and windows in the foyer, reception, lobby, bar, rooms and verandah were restored, piece by piece to their original form.

Expert restorers were brought in to work with the antiques, which are seen across the hotel and suites. In terms of the changes made to the rooms, the Loft Suites have been given an entirely new look inspired by the Dutch East India Company. The newly introduced Garden Suite draws its theme from the illustrations of a Dutch botanist. The rooms have been revamped to incorporate new technology while maintaining the theme of colonial grandeur.

Heritage hospitality specialist Amrit Rajaratnam has curated the overall transformation of the interiors, a massive project that has lasted over two years. The Galle Fort Hotel reopens with 12 luxury suites, a swimming pool, a reserved courtyard and the iconic Verandah Bar.

ASIAN ART MUSEUM: Located in the Civic Centre neighbourhood, this stately museum is home to one of the world’s most diverse collections of art and objects from across the Asian continent. Spanning 6,000 years of human history, visitors can enjoy paintings, sculptures, furniture, textiles and armour, among other objects, originating from Turkey, China, India, Japan, the Philippines and other Asian cultures.

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MUSEUMS IN SAN FRAN

CALIFORNIA ACADEMY OF SCIENCES: Home to an aquarium, planetarium, natural history museum, and world-class research and educational programmes, the California Academy of Sciences is one of San Francisco's must-see destinations. From the splashing penguins in the African Hall to the wildflowers on the roof, the building is bursting with life. Available with San Francisco CityPASS. CHILDREN'S CREATIVITY MUSEUM: For families travelling with kids to San Francisco, the Children’s Creativity Museum is a fun way to spend a day. In Yerba Buena Gardens, it is filled with interactive exhibits that teach kids about animation, music, digital media and other creative pursuits. Don’t miss a ride on the historic, hand-carved Leroy King carousel that makes a perfect companion to a day at the museum.

DE YOUNG MUSEUM: Located in Golden Gate Park, the de Young’s collection exceeds 27,000 works and is renowned for its American art from the 17th through 21st centuries, modern and contemporary art, photography, international textiles and costumes, and art from Africa, Oceania, and the Americas. Visit the ninth-floor Observation Level of the de Young's Hamon Tower and enjoy 360-degree views of San Francisco and the Pacific Ocean.

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C E L E B TA L K

RISE OF Riding on the success of three back-to-back hits, actor TAHIR RAJ BHASIN has finally arrived after making his debut almost a decade back, says SAIMI SATTAR

THE

interview with Tahir Raj Bhasin over Zoom is running late. The person coordinating it has been constantly updating me about how a previous interaction stretched beyond stipulated time and another had a technical glitch... with the domino effect spilling over. When we finally patch up and I comment on how busy the actor is, as an ice-breaker, Bhasin replies instantaneously, “It is a happy problem.

There are back-to-back interviews. as there is so much happening.”

It is proof enough that Bhasin — who was first seen almost a decade back as the adult Ali, the opening batsmen in Kai Po Che! (2013), for a brief scene — has arrived. The actor too agrees that his hard work has paid off. “It really has. During 2020 and 2021, I had been working back to back. There were certain hurdles due to the pandemic which delayed these projects and, now, powers have aligned to have these releases one after the other in 2022.” Ranjish Hi Sahi, which dropped on Voot on January 13, was followed by Yeh Kaali Kaali Ankhein

EXOTICA [10] MARCH 2022

the very next day and Loop Lapeta on February 4 (both on Netflix). “What is fantastic is that all three are different. Earlier, I was saying that I have a hat trick of releases but now I am very proud to say that I have a hattrick of hits as I am overwhelmed by the kind of reviews and feedback we have been receiving,” he adds.

The three characters that he plays — the conscientious Shankar, the scheming Vikrant and the bumbling Satya — are not just studies in contrast but also defy what a conventional hero looks like.

Bhasin weighs in, “I’m the kind of actor who has made his career by taking disruptive decisions.

Mardaani too was an unconventional debut and it was very exciting because it had the YRF banner attached to it, Pradeep Sarkar was directing it and the fact that they were mounting an anti-hero who looked like the boy next door. It was the mindset and the operation that he ran which were negative.”

Bhasin believes that the winds of change, whether it is the way the characters are framed or the kind of content, have been blowing through not just the OTT platforms but even the films that are released in theatres. “What enables this kind of entertainment to be made available more and more is the audience.

They are so much more aware and receptive as they are exposed to global content on OTT. They want a hero who is different. And what is super about Loop Lapeta and Yeh Kaali Kaali Ankhein is that while I play the ‘romantic hero’, it is in an out-of-the-box one.”

Elaborating on his, and that of

PERSONALLIFE Born on April 21, 1987, in Delhi.

His father and grandfather served as fighter pilots in the Indian Air Force.

His mother worked for the Confederation of Indian Industry and Aptech Computers.

He is the elder of two siblings and his brother is a pilot in Cathay Pacific.

EXOTICA [12] MARCH 2022

many other actors, place in the industry, Bhasin is sure that it is the time to shine. “I believe it is the age of the hybrid star. And I say that because when Mardaani (2014) was released, which was not too long back, you could either be a film star or a TV star. Today, you can be a film star or the lead in an OTT series. It is the time to reach the audience through different mediums and by telling different kinds of stories... And thus, the term hybrid star.”

The term also enables him to switch sides with ease. While his recent outings might have seen him play a romantic lead, some of his initial projects — including Mardaani (as Karan Walt Rastogi) and Force 2 in 2016 (where he played Shiv Sharma/Rudra Pratap Singh) –— were as an antagonist. Bhasin says, “The way I look at any part is that I don’t see anyone as completely black or completely white. There are shades of grey that each one of us has. And it is the circumstances that the character is in that story or script at that point... So, we catch him at that point of darkness. And what I find exciting, in scripts and characters, is the layers... and whether there is depth.” He picks up his latest character, Satya, who is so romantic at heart and vulnerable that he makes stupid mistakes when he tries to express his love. “When he tries to rectify those mistakes, he makes even more. That’s what makes him a jholer as he doesn’t know how to save himself. It’s his vulnerability that makes him so endearing and entertaining. You feel that he is such an idiot but a

‘I’M THE KIND OF ACTOR WHO HAS MADE HIS CAREER BY TAKING DISRUPTIVE DECISIONS. MARDAANI TOO WAS AN UNCONVENTIONAL DEBUT AND IT WAS VERY EXCITING BECAUSE IT HAD THE YRF BANNER ATTACHED TO IT, PRADEEP SARKAR WAS DIRECTING IT AND THE FACT THAT THEY WERE MOUNTING AN ANTI-HERO WHO LOOKED LIKE THE BOY NEXT DOOR. IT WAS THE MINDSET AND THE OPERATION THAT HE RAN WHICH WERE NEGATIVE’

loveable one who needs to needs to be saved,” says Bhasin. Incidentally, it was this duality that made the role challenging. “He could be charming and romantic in one minute, sulking and childlike in another or become completely erratic and crumble under pressure. These are the parts, with many shades, that I enjoy playing. Satya has a goal in mind but the process to get there is not quite clear. That is why a lot of the audience is finding him so relatable,” says the 34-year-old.

Each actor has a method to his/her madness while approaching a role. Bhasin says, “No size fits all.

It depends on the character and the script. But I can broadly divide it into two: the physical prep and the psychological prep. For instance.

Derek, in Chhichhore (2019), is the college stud and the sports captain so it needed more of physical prep,” says Bhasin who spent time with the sports coaches during the film’s shooting. “As opposed to this, for Vikrant, everything is a mind game so I tried to understand what was most valuable to him, his relationship with his father, how far he would go to protect the ones he loves. It changes with every script and that is what is exciting about playing different characters... the journey that you go through with every script,” says Bhasin who has been getting much praise for his ability to slip into each of the roles that he plays.

The actor who portrayed Shyam alongside Nawazuddin Siddiqui who was cast as the writer, Manto, in Nandita Das’ eponymous film in 2018 chooses his roles based on

DIDYOUKNOW He holds a master’s degree in media from the University of Melbourne.

He walked for the ninth edition of the fashion show ‘Ramp For Champs’ and lent his support to the charity organisation Smile Foundation. The profits made from the event were used to educate girls.

EXOTICA [14] MARCH 2022

several factors. “It is a mix of the story, how my character is driving it ahead, if he is taking it in a different direction, if the character is increasing the pace of the story or if he there for the humour. And, of course, the director,” says Bhasin who has had a pick of some noteworthy names including Pradeep Sarkar, Nandita Das, Nitesh Tiwari, Kabir Khan and more. He feels that an actor shares a relationship with the director.

“While people see the final product, you have to live with the captain of the ship for six months of your life.

From each of the directors, I’ve imbibed valuable ethics of life,” he adds sincerely While Bhasin might seem to be everywhere at this point, he started small, with brief appearances. “I definitely valued Mardaani more because of the kind of work I had done before. I’m not from a film family so the scene in Kai Po Che!, where I played the senior Ali, who walks out on the pitch, was when I went on the sets for the first time,” he says. And it was one of life’s sweet ironies that he wielded the bat, yet again, in 83 to play no less than the legend Sunil Gavaskar. “I found it poetic that in my first outing I wore the Indian team’s kit, played the opening batsman and hit a boundary on the first ball... And when I look at today, in 83 (2021), I played Gavaskar. It’s like life came a full circle. Sometimes you just have to wait it out and be persistent enough for things to work out and for stars to align,” he says, sounding satisfied.

But in another of life’s ironies, in

‘SATYA COULD BE CHARMING AND ROMANTIC IN ONE MINUTE, SULKING AND CHILDLIKE IN ANOTHER OR BECOME COMPLETELY ERRATIC AND CRUMBLE UNDER PRESSURE. THESE ARE THE PARTS, WITH MANY SHADES, THAT I ENJOY PLAYING. HE HAS A GOAL IN MIND BUT THE PROCESS TO GET THERE IS NOT QUITE CLEAR. THAT IS WHY A LOT OF THE AUDIENCE IS FINDING HIM SO RELATABLE’

a cricket-crazy country where almost all boys (and women, including me) seem to play some version of the game, Bhasin has never done so outside the silver screen. “That is what makes it challenging... to go from a noncricketer to playing Sunil Gavaskar... it took a lot of work,” he says. But it did click. “When the cricketer saw the film, he said that — in my performance — he saw shades of himself from back in the day. That is the best compliment an actor can get,” says Bhasin.

He does accept that playing a living legend was more challenging than any fictional character. “The complete credit for executing it well goes to the director, Kabir Khan, who creates that kind of structure where you have enough time to rehearse, do net practise and train with national-level coaches. At the same time, he also takes off the pressure by saying that you aren’t here to mimic someone but portray the essence of what Sunil Gavaskar was,” he explains.

Given the fact that Kapil Dev bringing home the Cricket World Cup for the first time was an iconic event, Bhasin acted in 83 for purely emotional reasons. “Although I wasn’t born at that time, it was like I’ve grown up experiencing that emotion and the story. The opportunity of wearing the Indian kit, walking out at the real Lords, playing Gavaskar... it is every Indian boys’ dream come true. For me, it was about giving that moment — to my family and friends — to relive it,” he says.

From recreating an iconic time

MILESTONES He did a cameo in Kai Po Che (2013).

He made his debut in Mardaani (2014) for which he won Screen Award for the Best Actor in a Negative Role. He was also nominated for a Filmfare Award for Best Supporting Actor.

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to a cult classic, Bhasin seems to have done it all in a short span.

Loop Lapeta was an official remake of the experimental German film Run Lola Run (1998). “Never in my wildest dream did I think that I’d be playing this character. The challenge was how to reinvent it for the Gen Z in India for them to have a context,” says Bhasin before crediting debut director Aakash Bhatia and cinematographer Yash Khanna for it and for, “The visual aesthetic...I’ve never seen it in Bollywood, ever. The way it was lit and designed, the costumes... there is a freshness.”

Bhasin, who doesn’t have a family background in the industry went for an acting workshop with Barry John — who has trained the likes of actors Shah Rukh Khan, Naseeruddin Shah, Manoj Bajpai — when he was all of 14 years. “When he told me that ‘You have potential’, that was the first time I thought this was something that I could do. It started as a hobby, I joined theatre groups in college, admitted to my family that this was something that I wanted to do and came to Bombay.

They were concerned but very supportive that I wanted to turn a hobby into a career,” he says. In Mumbai, he joined hordes of freshfaced aspirants who, in the pursuit of being an actor, joined acting, dance and fight classes. This was followed by the grind of meeting casting directors, visiting studios, going for auditors. “It was a path of self-discovery, of carving my path.

Today, when I look back, I am very very proud.”

And not surprisingly so...

‘ACTING WAS A PATH OF SELF-DISCOVERY, OF CARVING MY PATH. TODAY, WHEN I LOOK BACK, I AM VERY VERY PROUD’

TRAVEL BUG

WHEELING THROUGH SANDS OF TIME Dune bashing, Jaisalmer

Sunset at Sam dunes

PHOTOS: REDSAND TOURISM

NIDHIE RAJ SINGH found herself dune bashing in Jaisalmer, only to wonder if it is something that a solo woman traveller must attempt

MY

knuckles had turned pale as I clutched hard onto my car seat. My mouth felt parched. I couldn’t decide if it was from all my screaming or the desert heat. If my eyes weren’t shut tight, I would have seen how the tyres of my 4×4 vehicle splashed sand in the middle of the Thar.

Cut to 24 hours earlier, a guide from RedSand Tourism tried his best to paint an alluring picture of dune bashing popularly called desert safari by locals in Jaisalmer. I have heard that you can trust the ocean for once, but never the desert. Shifting dunes, vanishing tracks, and the golden mirage that the expansive Thar desert is, weren’t something I had put on my list while planning my trip. I wasn’t ready for those nasty turns and drops in the desert. For me — it was soul-satisfying food,

watching the sunset (sunrises aren’t my thing), and a shopping spree — quintessential to all my travels, in no particular order. Dune bashing did conjure up images from a certain Hollywood film about four women friends and their fateful trip to Abu Dhabi, yet I wasn’t sure.

As a solo woman traveller, Rajasthan has always fascinated me. It seems to strike a balance between being discreet and vaguely familiar. If you choose to keep a straight face while checking your bucket list, it lets you be. Nevertheless, your smile will always be reciprocated with a warmer one. If you know your way around, no one bothers you, unless, of course, they are ubiquitous cab drivers.

And if you decide to strike up a conversation, you will find yourself in midst of fascinating storytelling sessions.

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By the end of our conversation, the guide had convinced me to skip the touristy things such as shopping for mirror-work embroidery. What sealed the deal was his thorough lowdown on safety measures and stringent security precautions. The next afternoon I was duly picked up by the RedSand team from Suryagarh, the resort I was staying at.

As we drove on an almost tree-less road lined with giant windmills, the February sun tried to pierce through my car window. Over the years, most of Jaisalmer has evolved into beautiful chaos.

If Jaipur is pink and Jodhpur is blue, then Jaisalmer picks a golden hue to describe itself.

Thanks to its fort, havelis and houses made of locally found sandstone, Jaisalmer looks like a vintage photograph. By vintage, I don’t necessarily mean outdated. It might be one of the last few remaining living forts — the walled city reminds us of its rich history and legacy of Rawal Jaisal who founded it in 1156 AD — but it can offer a whiff of

modernity when it comes to staying and access.

I was lost in my train of thoughts as the car stopped in the middle of the desert. We then proceeded to the Sam dunes where. according to my guide, an adventure like no other begins. Little did he know that saying those things to a claustrophobe with zero driving skills isn’t a good idea. As I was secured in my seat and explained about safety measures, I remembered what my mother would often say, overthinking isn’t going to get you too far. I clutched my car seat with all the strength I had and waited with bated breath.

The roller coaster of a ride began on a rather sublime note, steadily picking up speed. The undulating crests and troughs in the sand made our vehicle go up and down. In a few minutes, I felt my world rock, as the driver let the vehicle slide on the sharp edges of the dunes, even as sand splashed all around my closed window. There were times when the car was partially covered by sand from all sides, much like a surfing board caught in

PHOTOS: SURYAGARH JAISALMER

(Above): Sunset at Suryagarh and (below): Archery workshop

a tide. The feeling of sitting in a car that drives down the dune was similar to a free fall on a giant wheel… you know you are secure but the butterflies in your stomach wouldn’t stop fluttering. Only in this case, they are the size of a dragon. Sometimes

the wheels seemed to slip on the dunes, only to stabilise before my heart skipped a beat. Other times, the unending drop from a high dune made the car sway. The dunes in Sam village aren’t categorised as extreme but are enough to make

GETTINGTHERE Jaisalmer can be reached by trains and flights from Delhi though options are limited.

you reach for car handles. The turns and twists came to a halt after 30 minutes, as my driver handed me a bottle of water. I was happy that the adventure was over, but realised I wouldn’t mind another go.

Dune bashing, reserved mostly for Middle East trips, is now being offered in India as a unique experience. It is nothing compared to a calm camel ride in the desert though. Dune bashing requires unwavering safety measures and skilled drivers to navigate through unpredictable dunes.

Not only are the vehicles required to be in their best condition, but the tyres also need to be duly checked for pressure. The RedSand (the company also operates in Dubai) staff explained to me why dune bashing can be a great selling point in India, but only if the drivers are properly trained. As we headed towards the sunset point for a photo PHOTOS: SURYAGARH JAISALMER

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KEEP SAFE Dune bashing happens in the open but it’s best to adhere to Covid protocols such as distancing and wearing a mask. Vehicles are sanitised and staff is vaccinated. The resort staff is double vaccinated and follows sanitisation and disinfestation procedures as advised by Indian MoHFW.

(Clockwise from top left): Thar haveli; halwai breakfast; Thar Dinner at Celebration Gardens; location of halwai breakfast and Suryagarh suites

session, the tranquillity was punctured by hollers from large crowds descending on the dunes. As several open jeeps drove up and down the sand, I wondered about the safety of people hanging from the vehicle. As the shrillness of their revelry grew, which I was told happens daily during sunsets, I decided to head back to Suryagarh. I wasn’t fearing for my safety, but my female solo traveller brain was working towards keeping me away from undue attention.

The next morning at the resort, as I had a lavish breakfast in the courtyard, peacocks roamed freely and a shehnai vadak (shehnai player) played soulful tunes sitting near one of the many jharokhas. Little sparrows invited themselves to my table giving me company. A smiling hotel staff member explained to me about various activities offered at Suryagarh, including a chudail (witch) trail (you read it right), but I decided to stick to dhanurvidya, the archery workshop. An hour later, I made a mental note to tweet to Indian archer Deepika Kumari for bringing laurels to India in such a tough sport. Needless to say, my arrows made all the birds (and some hotel staff, I think) scurry away in fear.

My trip ended with a visit to the Jaisalmer fort.

As expected, I got the best view from atop Trikuta Hill, a roughly triangular-shaped hill where the fort stands, towering above the town. Admiring the jaali work on jharokhas and local textile designs on some of the outer walls, I reached the sunset point. I could catch a stunning view of the setting sun casting golden fairy dust over Jaisalmer city.

One can observe pages from history at the Fort Palace Museum and Heritage Centre and visit some other smaller havelis and palaces, such as Salim Singh ki Haveli, Juna Mahal, Badal Mahal, Gaj Vilas, Moti Mahal. There are many old Jain temples worth a dekko.

As I sat for dinner at the Celebrations Gardens at Suryagarh, singer Mehboob Khan and his family of Manganiyars charged the atmosphere, urging us travellers to visit their beautiful region one more time. At night, as I gazed at the vast expanse of the desert and windmills glistening in the moonlight from my suite window, I couldn’t shake off the thought of dune bashing. It is an adrenalinepumping experience, which will remain with me forever, but will I try it again? Maybe with my friends the next time we are in Jaisalmer.

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TRAVEL BUG

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Manali holds out varied charms for travellers with different interests, says NIVI SHRIVASTAVA

THE

fragrant pine and cedar trees on the foothills of majestic snow-covered Himalayas, surrounded by the beautiful Beas River gleaming under the clear blue skies — the serene landscapes of Manali spread in front of me could easily surpass any exotic location. In the second year of the pandemic, work from home is the new normal for many professionals who are now opting for destinations like these as an option for a workcation. If you are planning a trip to this destination located in the Kullu District of Himachal Pradesh, here’s a list of popular and offbeat experiences you can choose from.

BIKING BACKYARD

SINCE

Manali is the gateway to the Lahaul and Spiti district as well as the city of Leh in Ladakh so summers see adventure and biking enthusiasts making their way to the town. The peak tourist season for this hill station starts in March and extends till October when it starts getting cold. Manali experiences heavy snowfall in winter and the temperature can go down to -7 degrees Celsius.

However, people who love snow activities can visit from December to February to enjoy skiing, skating and trekking in the winter wonderland.

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EASY BREEZY

THE

resort town is an excellent getaway for tourists, who flock here to experience different adventure activities and soak in the natural beauty. One can easily cover the main attractions in the town by foot or hire a local taxi to see the prominent temples and Buddhist monasteries. Vishal Lonkar, GM, Brand Development at Renest Hotels & Resorts, mentions, “Manali has activities throughout the year. During this season, you can participate in sports like paragliding, river rafting, riverside camping, mountain biking, rock climbing, trekking, Zorbing and much more.

The Rohtang Pass is one of the most popular summer destinations among others, and one may explore historical monuments, museums, temples, villages and parks in and around Manali. Mall road, Van Vihar, Old Manali, Hidimba Devi Temple, Gadhan Thekchhokling Gompa, Manalsu Nala, Naggar Castle, and Nicholas Roerich Art Gallery are a few popular attractions in all seasons. And, foodies check out the local dishes like Siddu bread, momos, wood oven pizza, and cups of hot chocolate or chai in this weather.”

LAND OF THE LEGENDS

START

with a simple walk by the Beas riverfront, try fishing or collecting glittering pebbles at the Patli Khul village. A little ahead (3 km from Manali) is the Vashisht village across the River Beas, and it is famous for its healing sulphurous hot water springs and three main temples dedicated to Lord Vashisht, Lord Shiva and Lord Rama built-in carved wood. The ancient Naggar village, which was once the capital of Kullu kings, is a fabulous stop for history lovers. Stop by the rusty old-style bridges on your way and try to read the prayers scribbled on the colourful flags that add to the beauty of these quaint stops.

THRILLS AND SPILLS

IF

the thrill of pumping adrenaline excites you, Manali should be on your bucket list this summer. One can come here to experience 4WD (Four-wheel drive), ATV (all-terrain vehicle) bikes and off-road tours in the snow-covered terrains or opt for the adventurous cycling tour from Manali to Khardunga La in Leh. One can also choose to go for an open jeep safari or pick a motorcycle tour to explore the slopes of Himalayan terrain and camp in the tranquil forest areas that are permissible by the forest officials for tourist activities.

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GETTING THERE Manali’s magic appeals to all age groups and it is perfect to visit there at any time of the year.

One can drive to the destination or opt for a Volvo and semi-sleeper buses from Delhi, Shimla and Chandigarh that go to Manali every day from the main bus stands. The closest airport is Bhuntar and the closest railway station is Joginder Nagar.

TREKKING TERRAINS

FOR

trek lovers, the resort town is a paradise as every slope takes you to some unseen, unknown spot that has unforgettable views of sunrise and sunsets. Some popular treks that you can book with local mountaineers are Jogini Waterfalls Trek, Beas Kund Trek, Bhrigu Lake Trek, Hampta Pass Trek, Pin Parvati Trek and Chanderkhani Trek. A word of caution before you trek, train in advance and acclimatise well with the air and geographical conditions for a day before you climb.

BE SPORTY

CLOSER

to Manali is the famous Solang Valley, which is known for summer and winter sporting activities. Tourists come here to try parachuting, paragliding, zorbing and horse riding. During winters, the valley is covered in thick snow and people come here to enjoy skiing and ice skating amidst the panoramic

white slopes. One can also visit the Sissu village in the Lahaul valley, which is 40 km ahead of Manali, to camp and enjoy the frozen lake views in winter.

BRAVE THE WEATHER

AFTER

crossing the Solang Valley, you can head to the famous Rohtang Pass via the newly inaugurated Atal Tunnel. It is one of the coldest spots in the region and has a reputation for unexpected snowstorms and blizzards at any time of the year, so carry your best warmers and knits.

The summit of Rohtang Pass is 13,000 ft above sea level and its fragile ecological condition makes it a risky journey to embark upon. According to locals, the name Rohtang comes from the Persian words Ruh + Tang (meaning pile of dead bodies) and it used to be an ancient trade route for people on the other side of the Pir Panjal mountain range. In peak winter, the roads are often blocked due to heavy snowfall.

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PIOUS POINT

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Experiencing the peace and spiritualism in Haridwar — the land of ghats, temples and ashrams — is a sublime encounter, says KHUSHBU KIRTI

QUIET FLOWS THE GANGA

I

carried the image of thousands of tiny flickering diyas floating in the quiet waters of the Ganga against the sound of mantras being chanted merged with the ringing of bells as my car sped past... And, as I stepped inside the Pilibhit Mansion, it seemed as if the atmosphere of Haridwar had wafted in. The loud blowing of the conch shell, the rhythmic drum beats replicating that of my heart and the aarti by the staff all combined to have a calming effect on me. I felt like a queen returning from battle, being welcomed back in her palace.

I explored further and found that the aroma infusing the rooms and the entire hotel was intoxicating while the view of the tranquil Ganges overlooking the Shivalik Himalayas was a delight for sore eyes. Despite me being somewhat akin to a displaced kid, an atheist at a Hindu pilgrimage site, it spelt peace in every breath.

The sound of the flute, at the heritage hotel, mingled with the soft rapids as the deck area glistened in the sun’s warmth. Debmallya Chowdhury, the front office manager, introduced the 100-year-old mansion, earlier called the

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Lahore House, to me. “The haveli was owned by the Prasad family of Pilibhit in Uttar Pradesh. Keeping these emotions in mind, when Indian Hotels Company (IHCL) took over, it didn’t change the name and added ‘house’ to it because we treat our guests like family.” The haveli has only 33 rooms, which translates as 70 guests, at the most.

After quenching my thirst with the homemade lassi, I entered the dining hall and the Pahadi thali (Gadwali thali) placed on a marble white table awaited me. For anyone, staying there, this would be an instant recommendation.

The local thali of Uttrakhand, a part of Pilibhit’s Sattvik cuisine honouring the vegantistic culture of Haridwar, showcased pahaadi raita, hauz gram dal, aalo jakhya, lauki chana sabzi, khatta meetha sitaphal (pumpkin), bhindi sabzi and the brilliant makhaana kheer. The breads were jowar and mandve ki roti. Makhaana kheer is usually served during fasting days, common for worshippers visiting Haridwar.

PRESERVATION OF HERITAGE active preservation of heritage was is evident in the way several havelis have been converted into ashrams in the city. Some of these are owned by temples

THE

and the remaining by big industrialists. However, the objective of all is to conserve culture and heritage to save the ancestral architecture. Some mansions are also occupied by elderly parents who prefer to spend the fag end of their lives at the pilgrimage site of Haridwar on the banks of the pious Ganga.

HAR KI PAURI ancient city also hosts the annual Kanwar Mela. Har Ki Pauri (pauri means steps), leads thousands of worshippers down the steps and into the Ganges, in haste to wash off their sins. I observed from afar, how much faith people put in the waters and it was emotionally stimulating.

THE

NAVAGRAHA PUJA nine planets’ puja, or the navagraha puja, performed by the in-house panditji, followed to placate the malefic and to receive the blessings of the ruling deities of each planet. The location was the personal bathing ghat of the

THE

property which, though attached to the main water body, is separated by golden chains.

The general manager, Amit Kumar hyped me to attend the Ganga aarti which was going to take place, “The mansion houses the largest private bathing ghat of the region for the customary dip in the river. It’s believed that people are absolved of their sins by taking a dip in the waters, especially in magh (January and February). People meditating and worshipping on the banks of the holy river, taking a dip in the river Ganga at sunrise and offering prayers to the Sun God to attain moksha during this period is called kalp-vaas.”

I found peace and breath of fresh air by the river body and realised that only Haridwar offers this kind of serenity. By the end of it, I was a different person, a reflective one who was grateful for slowing down a bit in this race of life. I sat by the pool under the mango tree, despite chilly winds because I found peace within myself. Nature always makes one realise how small we are, in front of its magnanimity.

JUNGLE SAFARI AT THE JHILMIL CONSERVATION RESERVE the crack of dawn, the next day, I jumped in the green jeep, all pumped up as the jungle safari was probably the most exciting activity on the agenda. The boulevard led to Jhilmil Conservation Reserve which exhibited large stretches of green land.

A green tree caressed one which had shed its leaves, a skeleton of beauty if you will. The vast stretch of green land extending beyond them was spectacular. Gautam Verma, the naturalist and our guide, pointed out the sound of the swamp deer.

Even though we couldn’t go anywhere near the open forest area where the herd was assembled, we observed them from afar. One of the most vulnerable species on the endangered list, it felt good to spot so many of them in their natural habitat.

A langur sat on the pole in front of our jeep and looked straight at me, however, as soon as I took out my camera, he looked away. I readjusted my position to click again, and he looked further away.

Something tells me he didn’t like me much.

Moving ahead, we came upon horses, of all colours, tucking away the grass. I’m not kidding when I say some of these looked like the ones racing with the car in Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara.

Their white mane appeared almost divine.

The huge forest revealed some truly wondrous sights as we travelled into its interiors. We chanced upon vast stretches of eucalyptus trees, a large number of wild boars tackling each other playfully, an elephant with huge tusks, breathtakingly beautiful peacocks, a variety of birds and different species of deer. I chanced upon a dead deer’s antler and Verma guessed, looking at its condition, that it must have been killed by a leopard. I immediately threw the ivory and jumped into the jeep, followed by laughs around me.

The forest had so much to offer. The guide mentioned there were several other forests to visit, including the Rajaji Sanctuary (which was closed due to the rains), Haridwar Reserve Forest or Haridwar Division, where you’d find more cows and deer along with an occasional elephant.

AT

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GANGES WALK better time to take a long and peaceful walk alongside the Ganges at sunrise?

And this is coming from a person who is more of a night owl. One could almost feel the pious vibe of devbhoomi (land of gods) as a soft pleasant breeze blew along with the meandering waters.

WHAT

THE LAND OF THE VANN GUJJAR Gujjar is a nomadic tribe, a pastoral community that moves around various regions of Uttarakhand. Some of the families have settled here. Verma mentioned that the government wanted to proffer them land outside the jungle, but the locals didn’t appreciate that.

These are people who like to live amidst the trees and birds, on mountains with no reception, and imbibe nature as their own.

One could see land, without tall buildings, as far as the eye could see. Colourful chappar and mud houses with thatched roofs were constructed all around, with lots of cowsheds and domestic animals. Their livestock included cows, buffalos, goats, sheep, cocks, and other birds. They are cattle

VANN

herders that supply milk to the city dwellers. One family possesses around 150 cattle and supplies milk to Haridwar, Rishikesh, and other areas of UP. We saw them transferring milk to the bigger vans from their bikes.

I saw a temple inside and observed the lifestyle of the tribals. A group of children looked at me with curiosity and waved back as I smiled and greeted them.

Inside, I met a woman who was collecting cow dung to plaster her house. She introduced herself as Nur Jahan and it brightened my face. She talked to me about how the tribals had to construct their homes on their own, as the government often relocated them and they weren’t allowed to have a permanent shelter.

I returned to the hotel to experience the natural Jiva spa. Akanksha, the duty manager, introduced me to the library on the river bank inside the heritage hotel where I spent quite some time enjoying the cool breeze, the aura of peace, my hazelnut chocolate shake and a bit of Edgar Allan Poe. Outside, quiet flowed the Ganga.

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TRAVEL BUG

A jungle safari can be an exhilarating experience. SUYASH KESHARI shares some tips and tricks to make it a memorable one

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it is essential to understand your goal for the trip.

Whether it is photography or just experiencing the wilderness. Also, it is very important to choose the species that you want to see and narrow down on your destination accordingly. Places such as Corbett, Bandhavgarh, Ranthambore or Kabini give you a wholesome experience. They are host to numerous species of mammals, reptiles and birds.

CHOOSE YOUR DESTINATION India is immensely biodiverse and is an absolute wildlife lover’s delight. To have a great experience,

PLANNING YOUR STAY AND BOOKINGS Choose your stay wisely from the plethora of options that are available these days. Try looking for an eco-friendly resort that practises sustainable measures. National Park areas are very ecosensitive. As responsible travellers, one should make the right choices for the environment.

When choosing your place of stay make sure it isn’t too far away from the park gates. It should just be secluded enough so that you can keep away from the hustle and bustle of the main town/village the national park is located in.

Ideally, it should take you 20-30 minutes to reach the park gates.

Book your permits well in advance as all national parks in India have limited authorisations. It’s best to plan and book your trips two-three months in advance.

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TALK TO YOUR GUIDE AND NATURALISTS They are the everyday visitors of the jungle and are the best persons to consult before you embark on a safari.

There is a lot to learn from them, especially if it’s your first visit to a national park. Talk to them about recent sightings, park history, animal behaviour and more. To enjoy your experience to the fullest and avoid mishaps kindly pay heed to whatever your guide or naturalist instructs you to. It is very important to follow guidelines both for the safety of yourselves and the wildlife.

And make sure to tip them as a sign of gratitude for the incredible work that they do. A small gesture goes a long way.

DON’T RUN JUST AFTER THE BIG CATS When in a national park or sanctuary, enjoy all flora and fauna and stop chasing the big cats.

People fail to appreciate the beauty of nature by running only after them. Spend time with common subjects such as deer and monkeys. You might think why should you stop for monkeys when you see so many of them in the cities. The fact is, the monkeys in the forests are in their natural habitat and their behaviour is completely different from their city counterparts.

So, the next time you are out there in the wilderness, take it all in and enjoy the clean, fresh air, because, for us city dwellers, even that is scarce.

ACT LIKE AN ANIMAL When you are out there in the wild, act like animals, not humans. Humans tend to litter, be nasty to their fellow beings, especially animals and they always leave something behind.

Make sure you are not loud inside the park, wear earthy colours such as greens, greys and browns, refrain from strong perfumes/colognes and most importantly pay heed to whatever your

guide/naturalist tells you. They are professionally trained and they know best how to be and what to do when in a national park. Sightings in Indian jungles are often for a very brief moment. If you don’t behave properly and are too loud, you might miss your only chance of spotting the tiger or the leopard you wanted to see so much.

So, leave with nothing but memories and leave behind nothing but footprints.

PS: Don’t get off the vehicle in the national parks. It’s a strict no-no.

— The author is a wildlife presenter, filmmaker and conservationist

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FOOD COMA The cuisine of any place can give you a deeper insight into its culture. Embark on a gastronomical journey in this Central European country

SENSORIAL VACATION TRAVELLING

is not just about visiting places but also sampling local delicacies that the place has to offer. Czech cuisine, whether in a traditional or modern guise, has many influences. It is diverse and offers various specialities.

Here are some suggestions for you to try on your next visit.

BEGIN WITH SOMETHING LIGHT: People in the Czech Republic love to start their meal with a piping hot bowl of delish soup. It is not only a dish but also a cure. Potato soup with mushrooms is one of the most popular Czech soups. Other soups prepared in different versions all over the country include kyselo (sourdough and mushroom soup) or kulajda. During winters, to taste real Wallachian kyselica (sauerkraut soup), one should visit Staré casy Restaurant in Horní Becva.

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A favourite ingredient is mushrooms.

Mushroom-picking, for the Czechs, is a kind of national sport and a tradition for entire families, especially during the summer. Mushroom and hulled grain kuba and, of course, kulajda soup are a must-try.

GO HEARTY OR GO HOME: Czechs love meats which is often the main ingredient.

Traditional Czech dishes are made from animals, birds or fish bred in the surrounding areas. While pork and beef are the main meats, there are a variety of dishes made from mutton, chicken as well as fish. Here are a few dishes you can try on your next visit — Goulash, Fried carp with potato salad, Pheasant in wine sauce, Lamb with potato dumplings, Roast beef on chanterelles, Stuffed trout with mushrooms (regional recipe from South Bohemia, Pstruh po šumavsku) and the list goes on.

DIG INTO DUMPLINGS: If you have visited the Czech Republic without tasting the fruit dumplings, you have to go right back to make amends.

The fruit dumpling is a traditional Czech speciality, with a few typical characteristics, which primarily comprise their seasonality and the different ways they are served in different regions. Even though fruit dumplings are in season year-round, they are best in summer when fresh fruit is abundant.

One of the most popular side dishes in Czech cuisine is dumplings. Czech dumplings are both savoury and sweet created with various ingredients. The main savoury varieties include houskový (made with soaked bread), bramborové (made with mashed potatoes), tvarohove (made with curd cheese) and plain yeast dumplings.

VEGETARIANS, DON’T WORRY, WE’VE GOT YOU COVERED: While dishes are heavy on meats, there are some traditional vegetarian dishes too. These include Potato pancakes, an extremely popular main dish, side dish or street food, Fried cheese which is best accompanied with beer and Crepes — which have several varieties including one with sweet curd, with fruit jams or sliced fresh fruit or with chocolate — are much-loved.

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F E S T I V E E AT S

Holi demands a feast that complements its hues.

Our chefs have you covered with some classics and other dishes with a modern twist

COLOURS OF FOOD

PISTA AUR ZAFFRANI RABRI RASGULLA

INGREDIENTS: Full cream milk: 1 litre; Fresh lime juice or vinegar: 2-3 tbsp; Sugar: 1 cup; Water: 3 cups; Crushed pistachios (for garnish): 1 tbsp; Rabri: 200 gm; Pistachio paste: 50 gm; Saffron: 1 gm METHOD o Make chenna by boiling milk and adding the lime juice/vinegar to it.

Squeeze out extra moisture by placing it in a muslin cloth for about 30 minutes.

Smoothen in a blender and expel more water. Remove and knead well for three minutes. Make smooth balls out of the chenna. The size of the rasgulla will double on cooking in the sugar syrup so remember to make these smaller, to begin with. o Add the sugar to the water and bring to a boil in a pressure cooker. Mix well till the time the sugar dissolves and lower the heat. Add the rasgulla balls gently into the syrup. o Cover the pressure cooker and cook without a whistle for about seven-eight minutes on medium-low flame. o Turn off the heat and wait for five minutes before opening the cooker lid.

You'll find spongy rasgulla that have doubled in size. o Divide the rabri into two bowls and mix in pistachio paste in bowl and saffron in another bowl. o Soak in the rasgullas in the rabri mix.

Serve cold with chopped nuts on top.

BHANG KE PAKORE

INGREDIENTS: Gram flour: 250 gm; Salt: 15 gm; Turmeric powder: 10 gm; Chilli powder: 5 gm; Chat masala: 10 gm; Bhang paste: 3 tsp; Spinach: 700 gm; Refine oil for frying: 1 litre METHOD: Wash and shred spinach leaves and collect in a mixing bowl. Add the rest of the ingredients and mix well sprinkling water with your hand. Mix until spinach leaves are coated with gram flour. Heat the oil in the pan. Shape and deep fry until golden colour and sprinkle the chat masala on top. Serve hot with mint chutney.

—PREM K POGAKULA, executive chef, The Imperial New Delhi

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BAKED GRANO INGREDIENTS: For dough Refined flour: 1 kg; Ghee: 100 gm; Sugar: 250 gm; Water: 200 ml For filling Green cardamom powder: 5 gm; Khoya pindi: 300 gm; Granola mix: 100 gm; Flax seeds: 50 gm; Raisin: 100 gm METHOD: For the dough o Knead a soft dough using refined flour, ghee and water. o Leave it to rest for at least half an hour.

For the filling o Mix raisin, cardamom powder grated khoya, granola mix and

GUR KI JALEBI For syrup: Water: 700 ml; Lime juice: 20 ml; Jaggery: 500 gm; Ganne ka ras: 300 gm; Cardamom powder: 4 gm For batter Flour: 200 gm; Khoya: 250 gm; Baking powder: 3 gm; Warm water: 300 ml; Desi ghee: 1 kg METHOD: o Boil the jaggery and water together on medium heat. o Once the syrup comes to a boil, simmer for about five minutes.

It takes a total of about 12-15 minutes to get the syrup done. o Add the lemon juice to make the syrup clean and pure, now add cardamom powder, ganne ka ras and give a boil and turn off the heat.

METHOD: o Make a batter of flour, khoya and baking powder. Mix well, making sure that there are no lumps. o Set the batter aside and let it sit in a warm place for 10-15 minutes, for fermentation o Now to make the jalebis, preheat the ghee for deep frying. o Fill the jalebi batter into a piping cloth bag and pipe spirals of the batter onto the medium hot ghee, until you get at least three concentric circles. o Fry the jalebi on medium heat until golden brown and crisp.

Once the jalebi is crisp and browned, drain the excess oil out and immediately dunk the jalebis into the warm syrup. o The jalebis should rest in the warm syrup for at least a minute, after which they can be drained out of the excess syrup and served.

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OLA GUJIYA flaxseed. Keep it aside. o Take the dough and divide it into small ball-shaped pieces. o Take a round ball and roll it like a puri with a rolling pin. o Place the filling in the centre of the puri and fold the circle in a half-moon shape. Apply little water to the edges and seal them. o Preheat the oven to 180°C. Line a baking tray and put all the gujiya on it and baked it for 20 minutes. o Remove from oven and let it cool.

— VIVEK RANA, The Claridges Hotel, New Delhi

SAMOSA BURGER INGREDIENTS: For burger bun Flour: 100 gm; Salt: 2 gm; Sugar: 10 gm; Gluten powder: 2 gm; Yeast: 2 gm; Oil: 5 gm; Water: 60 gm For samosa pattie Cashew: 25 gm; Green peas: 50 gm; Cauliflower: 50 gm; Boiled potato: 100 gm; Coriander: 5 gm; Green chilli: 5; Turmeric powder: 2 gm; Chilli powder: 2 gm; Cooking oil: 20 ml; Cumin seeds: 10 gm; Coriander seeds: 5 gm; Fennel seeds: 5 gm; Garam masala: 5 gm; Grated ginger: 5 gm; Aamchur powder: 5 gm; Salt: To taste METHOD: For the dough o Mix ingredients to make a smooth dough. Cover and leave for 30 minutes. Preheat oven at 200°C. o Once the burger is fully proved give a milk wash, sprinkle some sesame seed on top and bake till golden brown.

For the filling o Heat cooking oil at medium heat, add cumin, coriander and fennel seed. When these crackle, add ginger sauté and add all the vegetables except the potato. o Add all the spices and cook with the vegetables till the vegetables are tender. o Add the mashed potato at this stage and mix well. o Cool down the mixture and shape like a patty. Cook on both sides.

For the assembly o Cut the burger horizontally. o Smear both sides with mint chutney. o Put your choice of lettuce at the base of the burger and arrange tomato, cucumber and onion slices. o Place the pattie over the vegetables cover them with the other half of the burger and serve.

— MADHUMITA MOHANTA, executive chef, The Lalit Great Eastern Kolkata

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ECO CORNER

GREENWEDDING

PRERANA AGARWAL SAXENA has tips and tricks for a sustainable ceremony that does not compromise on the luxury quotient

YOUR

wedding will surely be one of the best and most memorable times of your life. There is something simply sublime when it comes to a personalised wedding. In times of celebrating it, one often forgets the impact a wedding can have on the environment and raises questions about sustainability. Such environmental sacrilege would surely cast a gloomy cloud over your wedding day.

With global warming becoming an immediate concern, sustainability has become important more than ever before. So, environmental conservation is one of the issues at the forefront that needs to be addressed and tackled in every aspect of our lives. Everyone assumes that to have a sustainable wedding, it needs to be down-sized and minuscule. But, luxury and sustainability are not mutually exclusive.

First of all, the venue needs to be chosen wisely.

It can take place in the dreamiest of places and it is a myth that — to go green — the location needs to be a barn or the forest. Venues that take active steps to minimise their carbon footprint will be a perfect fit for an ecologically-friendly wedding. What this

means is that the venue uses alternate and renewable sources of energy to power the celebrations. A composting facility on-site for extra food to be composted easily rather than going to waste is also becoming increasingly common. Some venues have a specialised outdoor marquee that will look stunning in the summer with a gorgeous mandap made of regional fabrics and materials.

Green hotels in Jaipur or Udaipur can be one of the best and smartest options to have a sustainable wedding. These hotels incorporate environmentfriendly practises. They also cut down on the travelling time for the guests as they can double up as places to stay while serving as a centralised location for the wedding party and the guests.

These locations are perfect for those who want to have a regal wedding without leaving a large carbon footprint.

Another one of the most wasteful aspects of a wedding is the catering. While the dietary needs and requirements of all the guests are met, no one cares about how the food gets on the plate.

Therefore, choosing the catering company that checks all of these boxes is an absolute must. Most

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importantly, the ingredients for the food need to be locally sourced. This cuts down drastically on the transportation cost, thus, reducing the carbon footprint. Opting for a locally-sourced menu also helps regional farmers thrive and grow, boosting local economies. A catering company can also provide the guests with proper cutlery. So, depending on the catering company, they can either provide the guests with reusable silver cutlery or disposable but recyclable ones made of bamboo.

Most importantly, you and the catering company need to be on the same page regarding food waste.

Try to minimise it by choosing a sit-down menu rather than a buffet. But if you choose a buffet, ensure that all the excess food does not go to waste by either composting it or giving it away to shelters where the underprivileged can share your big day with you.

Last, when it comes to decor, one of the most nefarious offenders will be using invasive and nonlocal flowers. These flowers can viciously take over the regional flora and fauna while also being highly wasteful as they need special conditions to be kept alive till your wedding date. There can also be issues with exploitation in the supply chain leading to a

huge ethical impact. To combat this, you can choose local flowers. You can also ask the florist to avoid using floral foam in centrepieces and be transparent with how the flowers are sourced. Another great alternative to using fresh flowers is to use blooms that have been preserved to mimic the natural blossoms. This is a great alternative to traditional flowers that can be wasteful at times. LED lights can be used to illuminate the spaces, so the electricity consumption can be cut down. Rather than going for elaborate invitations, you can opt for digital ones or those printed on plantable seed paper. Sand art can be used to hone in on the desert theme in Rajasthan. Glass blown centrepieces will be perfect to support regional craftsmen. When it comes to confetti, the traditional options are nothing but pieces of plastic. Instead, guests can use rice, hemp, or pure linen to be used instead of traditional confetti.

Minimise waste as you organise your picture-perfect wedding as sustainability is not a trend, but a lifestyle choice that can easily be adapted by people to save the planet.

— The author is the founder of Theme Weavers Designs, a wedding planning firm.

EVENT

INTERNATIONAL YOGA FESTIVAL: The Parmarth Niketan Ashram in Rishikesh hosts more than 500 yoga enthusiasts, trainers, and orators from 30 countries gather here to attend the yoga sessions and take part in talk shows and discussions by spiritual leaders. There are also cooking classes and global yoga sessions by renowned yoga practitioners like Swami Chidanand Saraswati, Shankaracharya Swami Divyanand Teerth, Swami M M Asanganandji, Swami Avdheshanand Giri, Pranav Pandya are the main attractions.

WHEN: March 7-13 WHERE: Rishikesh, Uttarakhand

HOYSALA MAHOTSAVA: It commemorates King Hoysala in his great military victory as well as the Hoysala Dynasty through the assorted forms of dance, music and art. This is a one-day celebration of classical and folk dances and music. The festival sees some of the most celebrated artistes like Hema Malini, Sudha Chandran and more. WHEN: March 16 WHERE: Belur-Halebid, Karnataka

THIRUNAKKARA ARATTU: Thirunakkara Arattu is celebrated in Thirunakkara Mahadeva Temple in Kottayam, Kerala. A 10-day long celebration where elephant rallies are organised and people dance to the beats of the drummers. Local people perform folk arts like Mayilattom (peacock dance) Velakali and more during the celebration. WHEN: March 23 WHERE: Kottayam, Kerala

HOLI: One of the most celebrated festivals, it starts with lighting a bonfire, Holika Dahan, to celebrate the victory of good over evil. On the next day, the celebrations involve applying colours to each other. WHEN: March 9 and 10 WHERE: All over India

MYOKO: It is organised by the Apatani Tribe to honour prosperity, purification, fertility and sacrifice. Locals in their traditional attire sing and dance in merriment and cook delicious local food. Folk performances, martial art, fireworks and drums are the main attractions. WHEN: March 24-26 WHERE: Ziro, Arunachal Pradesh

UGADI: People usher in New Year in festive spirits during this festival. It falls in the Chaitra month of the Hindu calendar, that loosely corresponds to March-April according to the Gregorian calendar.

The term Ugadi is said to originate from the Sanskrit word Yugadi, that is a confluence of the term yuga (era) and adi (the beginning). Yugadi literally means the beginning of a new (year) period. WHEN: March 25 WHERE: Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana

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I N N E R S PA C E S

Homes have evolved to accommodate workspaces and the trend is here to stay, says ERIK JAN MIDDELHOVEN

TRANSFORM TO TRANSITION BACK

in 2020, when the pandemic hit, nobody imagined that we were going to be confined to our homes for such a long time. We were used to going out daily. So, when the lockdown was imposed and we were all asked to retreat indoors, we struggled a bit. We now realise that ‘Work from Home (WFH)’ would be the new normal for most.

This realisation drove many of us to permanently revamp our homes, not just to stay productive at work, but also to ensure that we were maintaining

a healthy work-life balance. Our homes have become our sanctuary — it is where we work, work out, rest and spend quality time with our families. However, was this transition easy? Of course not.

Two years later we largely continue to work or study from home. As we embrace this new normal, let us take note of some of the major trends we have observed. These will also come in0 handy if you wish to create a WFH space conducive to productivity.

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DESIGNATED SPOTS FOR WORK the lockdown began, none of us knew what to do. Homes that remained empty throughout the day, turned into a co-working hub for the entire family overnight. None of us seemed to have the right number of rooms, tables or chairs. Hence, most of us resorted to makeshift solutions. We converted our dining table/breakfast tray table to our work desk, attended Zoom meetings from the couch or the bed and more. Over a few months, we understood the need to dedicate a separate space for work with the right kind of furniture. Some good options are ergonomic tables whose height can be adjusted to meet the needs of every member of

WHEN

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INSIDE, BUT CLOSE TO NATURE indoors for such long periods has not been easy. Even at the office, we would all want window-facing desks because that gave us a feeling of being connected with nature. It was no different when we started working from home as well. Hence, we set up our homework desks closer to the window. Those who didn't have that option purchased indoor plants to create a soothing and visually appealing workspace.

Tip: If you worry about not having a green thumb, it would be better to have the easy-tomaintain ones such as succulents that don't require too much water, or a bamboo or spider plant.

STAYING

the family — parent or child; comfortable chairs that offer lumbar support for those who must sit upright through long meetings; and the perfect laptop stand to ensure that our laptops are always at the eye level.

While employees who had the luxury of a spare room at home could turn it into a home-office, some people opted to dedicate just one corner of the house to work. Many invested in moveable and foldable variants of office furniture that could be dismantled in less than a minute to make space for other furniture.

LIGHTING UP YOUR WORKSPACE light improves an individual’s productivity, which is why our offices were built the way they were. When we shifted to working from home, we didn’t pay much attention to it and decided to go with the standard lighting that our homes had. These overhead lights can cause shadows and increase the strain on your eyes, leading to constant fatigue and lower productivity.

So, what is the fix? Well, nothing beats natural light. We have all heard that the optimal amount of daylight energises us and it is true. Unfortunately, not everyone has a home that is flooded with natural lighting. Therefore, many people installed

NATURAL

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extra lights in their workspaces to ensure that the long hours do not strain their eyes. A few others invested in more diffused, functional lighting (instead of the conventional right-in-the-eye lights) that is more amenable to long working hours along with specialised mood lights that help uplift the occupant's spirit.

Tip: A work lamp is a great fit for anyone exploring simple and space-saving options for a table lamp.

OUT OF SIGHT, OUT OF MIND disorganised home often leads to a disorganised state of mind, especially when you're confined to the same space for the entire day. It is bound to make you anxious and affect your overall mood.

Hence, over the last two years, more and more people have become conscious about decluttering their homes and are choosing stylish, utilitarian storage solutions. A lot of people also invested in multi-purpose furniture such as moveable trolleys or showcases, which have ample space for your laptop and files and can double up as desks during work hours. These storage solutions help us organise our homes, have a positive impact on our productivity and energy levels and add to the visual aesthetics.

Tip: A storage unit on castors can be easily moved and will always have things close at hand.

Additionally, the smart lock will ensure your important documents are safe.

A

Work from home did disrupt our daily lives and routine overnight. But today, most of us are more than comfortable with this setup. With companies letting go of office spaces and permanently shifting to remote-working or hybrid working models, it is likely that we will be working from home for quite some time. Therefore, it's important that you get your hands on the right kind of furniture and not shy away from building your home office.

—The author is the home furnishing & design manager, IKEA India

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GURUSPEAK

MAKE Sri Sri Ravi Shankar Spiritual Guru

When actions dominate, restlessness and disease are the results. But when awareness is dominant, happiness dawns

your life like a dry leaf where you agree with what the Divine has provided to you, float with the moment without regretting the past or anticipating the future. Keep going on your own and when you feel you can’t anymore as it’s all so tiring, surrender.

It is the desire, the wants in the mind that tire you. Desire, action and awareness of the self, all are manifestations of the same energy that is ‘you’.

Among these three, one of them dominates at any time.

When desire dominates, stress and sorrow are the result and self-awareness will be at its lowest. That’s why all the philosophers around the world have always advocated the renunciation of desires. When actions dominate, restlessness and disease are the results. But when awareness is dominant, then happiness dawns. And when your actions and desires are sincerely directed to the Divine or the welfare of society, then awareness and consciousness are automatically elevated, and self-knowledge will be attained.

When someone is drowning in the ocean of desires, surrender is the life jacket. Your first step in this direction is surrendering your attachments, wants and desires to the Knowledge, to the Divine. Without fighting the attachments and desires, just observe the feverishness. This awareness will bring you to surrender. To shed desire, be willing to surrender yourself into the hands of the Divine.

Often people think that surrender means sitting idle and leaving everything to the divine. They feel it is a way to escape responsibility. True surrender is taking total responsibility for everything. Surrender is saying, ‘Let thy will be done’ and here ‘Thy will’ refers to you taking responsibility for the whole world.

And when in the process of taking responsibility, you encounter blocks, surrender that. That gives you the strength to move ahead. It releases you from the weight of the doership. Taking responsibility or surrendering without a doership is the skill of the wise.

Surrender also conjures up images of a weak person. We feel only if somebody is weak, will they surrender. On the contrary, only a strong man can

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DROP YOUR DESIRE AND SURRENDER

surrender. The weak can never do it. To surrender, needs great courage, strength and confidence.

The greater the surrender, the greater is the freedom. So surrender and freedom go hand in hand. The freer you are, the more powerful you become. The greatest power is in surrendering to the Divine. There is no other bigger power on earth.

People fear surrender as they feel they will lose something.

What do you think you will lose? Just wake up and see you have nothing to lose in the first place. And even if you think you have something, can you hold on to that? Can you take that with you when you die? No. Surrender is realising that everything belongs to the Divine already.

Surrender happens when the little mind realises that you cannot have control over all the happenings, that certain things are beyond your capacity. Realise that your life is happening; you are yourself happening in this ocean of consciousness; your heart beats by itself; your breath moves by itself; sleep comes, you feel good and you bad; all this phenomenon is happening in your life. With this realisation comes a deep relaxation, a feeling of trust. That is surrender.

It simply means unconditional love. When you are in love, when you are surrendered, there is no fear.

Surrender eventually leads you to the big self, because there is nothing other than that. It is like a drop owning the ocean. A drop if it remains separate, it will perish, but when it becomes one with the ocean, it becomes eternal, it remains forever. In the same way, the moment you surrender to the Divine, the individual ‘YOU’ dissolves and you become one with the Divinity.

SURRENDER HAPPENS WHEN THE LITTLE MIND REALISES THAT YOU CANNOT HAVE CONTROL OVER ALL THE HAPPENINGS, THAT CERTAIN THINGS ARE BEYOND YOUR CAPACITY. REALISE THAT YOUR LIFE IS HAPPENING; YOU ARE YOURSELF HAPPENING IN THIS OCEAN OF CONSCIOUSNESS; YOUR HEART BEATS BY ITSELF; YOUR BREATH MOVES BY ITSELF; SLEEP COMES, YOU FEEL GOOD AND YOU BAD; ALL THIS PHENOMENON IS HAPPENING IN YOUR LIFE

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FITNESS

WE

Bharat Thakur is a yoga guru and founder of Artistic Yoga

Shatkarmas correct imbalances in the body, remove excess mucous, bile and wind

live in a world with high levels of pollution that affect the air we breathe and trigger allergies, asthma and respiratory disorders.

We eat a range of foods that are either adulterated or contain pesticides, food colouring and preservatives that impact our digestive systems. Add to this the anxieties and stresses of modern lifestyles that affect our internal systems and it is clear that, internally, we are continually accumulating toxins and waste products. We cleanse and take care of the outer body by bathing, brushing our teeth and more but what do we do to clean ourselves up internally?

Yoga does this through the practise of Shatkarma. This, as described in ancient texts, is a very precise and systematic science. Shat means six and karma means action. There are six sets of powerful internal cleansing practices — Neti, Dhauti, Nauli, Basti, Kapalbhatti and Tratak. These, through their cleansing action, correct imbalances in the body that create discomfort and illness. They regulate the flow of prana (life force) in our bodies. They also cleanse excess mucous, bile and wind, the accumulation of which leads to so many disorders.

Each has several practises that range from simpler to more complex.

Dhauti cleanses the stomach and digestive tract through the use of water, air or cloth. Basti cleanses the large intestines using water and muscular control.

Nauli involves the contraction and rotation of the abdominal muscles to improve digestion.

Neti is relatively simple but important. The nose filters the air we breathe.

There are many brain, eye, ear nerve endings in the nostrils. If our nasal passages are blocked by the build-up of impurities or mucous, it affects the effective functioning of the sense organs in our heads and the health of our mind and body. By clearing these passages, Neti improves how we breathe and helps alleviate hay fever, allergies, colds, tiredness, memory.

Agnisar Kriya is a Dhauti practise and can be done sitting or standing. If sitting, it should be in a posture that allows the knees to touch the ground as in Padmasana (lotus) or Vajrasana. Air is exhaled and, holding the air out, the

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stomach is rapidly pumped in and out. This activates the nervous system and both strengthens and activates sluggish digestive systems.

Kapalbhatti is a breathing practise that aims at cleansing the frontal lobe of the brain. Air is inhaled and then forcibly exhaled in short bursts.

The benefits are multiple. Impurities are expelled.

As more carbon dioxide is removed, larger amounts of oxygen are inhaled. It balances the nervous system and negative states of mind.

Tratak in Sanskrit means 'gaze' and is described in ancient texts like Hatha Yoga Pradipika as

'staring with complete focus and unwavering gaze at a minute object till tears start flowing’. It not only improves eyesight but calms the brain, enhances focus and concentration and prepares the mind for meditation.

The Shatkarmas detoxify, cleanse and purify the brain, eyes, respiratory system, digestive system resulting in better physical and mental health.

They are also a preparation for the more advanced practises of yoga. It is important to do these correctly and is best to be guided by an experienced yoga teacher or practitioner.

JALA NETI

o You will need a neti pot or similar vessel o Add one teaspoon of salt to half a litre of lukewarm water o Stand relaxed, legs apart, bend forward, tilt head to one side as shown o Keep breathing through the mouth o Place nozzle in nostril facing up and slowly pour water.

It will flow out of the other nostril o Straighten, blow the nose gently to remove any mucous o Repeat with head tilted to the other side o Straighten, close one nostril, rapidly exhale 10-15 counts to dry nostrils (prevents water from being absorbed) Repeat on the other side BENEFITS: o Removes mucous, impurities. Allows air to flow freely o Stimulates nerve endings in the nose and improves body and brain function o Helps respiratory tract problems, allergies, colds, hay fever o Soothes the brain, helps depression, anxiety and anger o Relieves muscular tension of the face

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AGNISAR KRIYA [ACTIVATING DIGESTIVE FIRE] o Sit back on heels or in padmasana (lotus) o Inhale deeply, exhale fully through the mouth o Lean forward slightly, palms on knees, elbows slightly bent, gently press down on knees o Holding breath out, pull in abdominal muscles, then push out. Repeat rapidly three-10 times without breathing in. Don't strain. With practise, increase the count o Raise head, inhale slowly and deeply a few times till breathing is normal o Do two more rounds BENEFITS: o Activates the stomach's peristaltic movement resulting in better digestion and excretion o Stimulates the liver and kidney o Relieves indigestion, acidity, wind and constipation o Strengthens abdominal muscles and removes fat o Raises energy levels

KAPALBHATTI

o Sit in padmasana (lotus position) or on your heels, back straight, eyes closed, palms on knees, head slightly inclined and focus o Exhale forcefully through the nose, the stomach will automatically pull inward o Relax stomach, inhale deeply and exhale o Do two more rounds o Practise 10 exhalations at a stretch and gradually increase BENEFITS: o The forceful exhalations cleanse the brain’s frontal lobe, lungs and respiratory system o Strengthens the diaphragm and abdominal muscles o Improves cardio-respiratory capacity and oxygen levels o Activates the peristaltic movement of the stomach and improves digestion and excretion o Strengthens the nervous system, calms the mind o Light a candle at eye-level at arm’s length in front of you o Close your eyes, inhale and relax as you breathe out o Open your eyes and gaze steadily at the middle part of the flame, just above the wick o Try not to blink o Watch thoughts but don’t engage, focus o When the eyes get tired or water, close them o Watch the after-image of the flame with eyes closed till it disappears o Open your eyes and

AGNI TRATAK

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repeat, two-three minutes each time o Inhale, relax as you exhale and open your eyes o With practise, build up to five minutes BENEFITS: o Cleanses the eyes and improves many eye conditions o Improves concentration, ability to focus and willpower o Calms the body and mind o Relieves anxiety, stress, depression and insomnia o Stills the mind and prepares you for meditation

NUMBERGAME Sanjay B Jumaani Numerologist

COUNT YOUR FATE

NUMBER 1 (Those born on the 1st, 10th, 19th and 28th of any month) You could cover some of the missed-out opportunities. This could be a new chapter for you, financially. You are likely to bounce-back with rejuvenated spirits. Socially too, you could grab limelight. But don’t let your work life intrude into your personal space. Also, take extra care of your back.

NUMBER 4 (Those born on the 4th, 13th, 22nd and 31st of any month) A so-so month but don’t lose spirit. You can, however, expect a steady growth in your worklife. There could also be a spike in the expenses. Newer ideas and opportunities could keep you on your toes; this would also be the time to look into undone assignments and culminate them with improved interest.

NUMBER 7 (Those born on the 7th, 16th and 25th of any month) You may be used to getting served on the platter; however, get going, before the going gets tough. Don’t let your laid-back nature stunt your growth. You’ll be blessed with a more disciplined lifestyle. Finances improve and you could put those bonus earnings to better use by investing in long term avenues.

NUMBER 2 (Those born on the 2nd, 11th, 20th and 29th of any month) Your drive and enthusiasm could help showcase ambition.

This can curb your restlessness and help your productivity. Many of you could fulfill your lust to travel. Expenses may multiply, so find newer ways to increase income. Sometimes, hobbies can become professions and the best part is that you enjoy work.

NUMBER 5 (Those born on the 5th, 14th and 23rd of any month) You can score big in your work domain; expect recognition for what you deserved but were deprived of earlier. There could arise a need to invest a sizeable amount of time in relationships and marriage. Financially, you will have the acumen to spend more wisely. Your glorious days shall remain at peak till the 20th.

NUMBER 8 (Those born on the 8th, 17th and 26th of any month) Many singles could get hitched.

You’re set to smack the ball out of the park at work and personal front. Unfinished projects would see the light of the day and help maintain financial stability. You know that hard work and patience are keys to realising ambitions.

Your ‘can’ stop, won’t stop’ attitude shall get you through.

NUMBER 3 (Those born on the 3rd, 12th, 21st and 30th of any month) A financially secure month.

Obstacles would be comfortably dealt with. The most opportune time to place a tag on an unidentified relationship or to mend a difficult one. You’ll have a platform to showcase your work. You could venture into something you've desired or see substantial career growth.

NUMBER 6 (Those born on the 6th, 15th and 24th of any month) Make the most of every opportunity at work or while reconciling a relationship.

Financially, you are on a high.

Those inching towards a new home, starting new ventures, or even looking for a job shift, could take giant leaps.

Investors may have a field year in long-term investments.

NUMBER 9 (Those born on the 9th, 18th and 27th of any month) The best time to optimise so channelise your abundant energy. You may find a conclusion to your unending tasks. Sour relationships could get refined if you keep your ego and straight-forwardness at bay.

There could be an improvement in financial health. Be mindful of misbehaviour with loved ones.

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I N S TA D I A R I E S VICKY KAUSHAL lets the picture do the talking.

JANHVI KAPOOR feels like, “flaming hot cheetos”.

SHAHID KAPOOR keeps it simple and captions it as,“#minimal”.

BLACK BOND Nothing spells sophistication more than this colour

TARA SUTARIA shows us what, “Last night…” was about.

HRITHIK ROSHAN unveils his look in “VEDHA”.

SIDHARTH MALHOTRA doesn’t clarify if, “let me distract you,” is his companion’s intention or his own.

ANANYA PANDAY believes that it is sweet as she says, “dolce dolce”.

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SARA ALI KHAN tags the photographer, designer and the makeup artiste who created this look.

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Delve into the best of travel, hospitality, wellness, food, fashion, interiors and more every month with Exotica, the monthly luxury lifestyle magazine. Read interviews with trendsetters, celebrities, industry leaders and authors to deep dive into what it took to get them there.

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