NOV. / DEC. 2014
SUCCESS SUBSTANCE STYLE
www.desifashionmag.com
A COMPLETE SOUTH ASIAN FASHION & LIFE STYLE MAGAZINE
PAVAN AHLUWALIA Mehendi Maestro
ANDRES AQUINO Subtle, Stylish, Classy & Fun
JONITA GANDHI Toronto’s Nightingale
NEW YORK CITY’S Couture Fashion Week UNDISCOVERED CUBA Natural Habitat Adventures
SWAROVSKI Gift Collection
iFLY TORONTO Defy Gravity
SHIPRA KHANNA Celebrated Chef
OFF ROAD LUXURY Jeep Grand Cherokee
GLOBAL DESI London Calling TAG HEUER Monaco Timepiece DANISH ANWAR Canadian Comic PRITA CHHABRA Music Video CAD/USA $3.99
Gloss IndianCocktail
JASMINE SANDLAS Mombatti Album
ZENBAR Luxury Healing Studio
PRINTED IN CANADA
Collection
Manish Malhotra
Lakmé Fashion Week Winter/ Festive 2014
MUMBAI: SHIVRAJ HEIGHTS, CORNER OF 14TH ROAD & LINKING ROAD, NEXT TO RAJ KUMAR JEWELLERS, KHAR WEST, MUMBAI – 400052 NEW DELHI: H 5/1 KALKADAS MARG, MEHRAULI, NEW DELHI
IndianCocktail Collection by
GLOBAL DESI’S TAKES YOU ON A FASHIONABLE RENDEZVOUS WITH ITS NEWEST COLLECTION “LONDON CALLING” www.globaldesi.in
EDITOR’S LETTER S U C C E S S S U B S TA N C E S T Y L E
Dear Readers,
NOV. / DEC. 2014 / VOL. 06 / ISSUE 33
There’s more than just stunning colours and fall festivities that
Publisher
Shaziya Khan
make Autumn so beautiful. It’s also the new fashion that’s
Editor
inspired by nature’s colourful palette that's really exciting.
Karmen Rifai
Changing trends, unique designs and an array of hues are
Editorial Intern
Dia Ramkalawon
dominating the catwalks this season.
Art Director
Feroz Khan
Our cover carries a stunning number designed by Manish
Sales Marketing
Malhotra for the Lakmé Fashion Week - Winter Festive 2014
Sushil Rahul
Cocktail Collection. Global Desi presents its latest fall collection - London Calling.
Public Relations
Tracy Smith Contributors:
Asal Azghadi, Andres Aquino Carrie Sager, Dave Wiggins Dava Huber, Elaine Jonita Gandhi, Michelle Cato Manini Mehrotra, Natasha Black Natasha Dsouza, Niyoshi Chudgar Pavan Ahluwalia, Raoul Juneja Sanjay Agnihotri, Zaynah Rashid
Published by
FAIZIMEDIA CUSTOM PUBLISHING 127-1050 Falgarwood Drive, Oakville, Ontario, L6H 2P3, Canada, Tel: 647 859-9299 info@faizimediapublishing.com All rights reserved. Production in whole or in part without prior written permission of Faizimedia Custom Publishing is prohibited. Statements and opinions provided within do not necessarily reflect those of the publisher. Faizimedia Custom Publishing does not assume liability for products, hotels and other advertised services in this magazine. Readers are recommended to use their own discretion. Faizimedia Custom Publishing shall not be liable as a result of any loss incurred or suffered due to information published within Desi Fashion Magazine. www.desifashionmag.com www.faizimediapublishing.com
06 NOV. / DEC. 2014
On the beauty side of things Pavan Ahluwalia, our Mehndi Maestro showcases some of her intricate henna designs. Need to relax? Visit the Zenbar Healing Studio or have some fun at the iFLY Toronto Center and defy gravity without any expertise. Meet and greet some great entertainers, including Jonita Gandhi, Danish Anwar and Prita Chhabra. Come check out what these local inspirations are up to. Of course with the holiday season quickly approaching, we have filled this issue with inspirations for the perfect gifts. Swarovski showcases some stunning pieces that are sure to delight the sparkle in your life this Christmas. Looking for some culinary inspiration? Find your kitchen mojo again with Chef Shipra Khannna’s yummy hot recipes. If that’s not enough, why not take a trip and make Cuba your next travel hotspot. Check out what’s in store in our travel section. As we get ready to say goodbye to 2014 and welcome 2015, we reflect on the beautiful but exhausting journey’s we are all on and look forward to starting over. Start this New Year off with a big bang and a lot of resolutions. Take the time and enjoy the beauty around you, count your blessings and spend time with the people you love.
Karmen Rifai
Follow us at Desi Fashion Magazine Facebook Page Desi Fashion Group Page Twitter #DesiFashion www.desifashionmag.com www.faizimediapublishing.com For Advertisement Inquiries contact info@faizimediapublishing.com
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Courtesy of Manish Malhotra - Gloss - Lakmé Fashion Week Winter/Festive 2014
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10 COVER STORY Gloss – Manish Malhotra Collection 16 INSTYLE Global Desi - London Calling 18 PORTFOLIO Andres Aquino - Subtle, Stylish...
32 34 MAKEUP Get your Best Holiday Look 36 SPA Zenbar - Luxury Healing Studio 38 SKIN CARE Youthful Glow - Agranaturel
16 18 26
40 HAIR CARE Everyday Glamour
22 RUNWAY New York - Couture Fashion Week
42 FRAGRANCE Indulge your Senses
26 IN THE SPOTLIGHT Jonita Gandhi - Toronto’s Nightingale
44 GIFT COLLECTION Swarovski Fall/Winter 2014/15
28 MIX & MATCH Don’t Forget the Elegance
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32 MEHNDI Pavan Ahluwalia - Mehndi Maestro 08 NOV. / DEC. 2014
46 ACCESSORIES Accessible Accessories 48 BOOTS Head over Heels
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Feel Royal! Look Royal!
Sandy
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Spa & Studio
60 52 MUST HAVE Normal Earphones 54 WATCH Tag Heuer Monaco
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56 FOR HIM He’s Got It!
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58 DÉCOR Classic Home 60 FOOD Shipra Khanna - Celebrated Chef 66 ENTERTAINMENT Mallika Sherawat at Diwali Event 68 PRESSBOX Stronger – Prita Chhabra 70 HOT SPOT iFly Toronto – Defy Gravity
68 70
Presents: Bridal Artistry Bridal Makeup, Party Makeup, Haircut & Style, Ear-Piercing, Colour, Meni/Pedi, Facial, Waxing Also Available for sale Custom Jewelry, Makeup Products, Hair Accessories.
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COVER STORY
IndianCocktail Collectionby For Lakme Fashion Week Winter / Festive 2014 Grand Finale. 10 NOV. / DEC. 2014
Photos: Manish Malhotra
T
his season Manish Malhotra presented the neo bride with a new language to express her joy, her style and her individuality every moment that she is celebrating the beginning of her new life. All unapologetic glamour and inimitable style, ‘Gloss’ is the Indian Cocktail collection by Manish Malhotra, and was showcased at the Grand Finale of Lakme Fashion Week W/F 2014, on 24th August at the Palladium Hotel. Marriages may be about tradition, but the smaller wedding festivities that lead up to the big day allow the bride to set her own rules. This collection has been especially curated for occasions where brides can experiment and have fun with their outfits, be it at the engagement,
cocktail, sangeet or even to take along as part of their wedding trousseau. High on gloss, shimmer and mirror work, this season Manish Malhotra celebrates weddings and winter festivities in India with inspiration from the fashionable young woman who loves the glamour in the play of light and fabric. In line with the international trend of gloss, gleam and shine, the contemporary mirror work and textured shimmer in the collection doesn’t just dazzle, it reflects the euphoria and radiance of a woman on the brink of a dream come true. From the colour palette to the embroidery, fabric and silhouette, the contemporary expression of style can be found in every detail. Colours of wine, burgundy, grey and silver in specially treated textured silks and velvets, or in
flowy chiffons and soft nets, allow for transluscence and shimmer to flow into the effortless silhouettes adding that ultra feminine touch. Inspired from Indian tradition, yet speaking a language relevant to the new age bride, are the flowy skirts as a substitute to the lehenga, while adding an extra edge to the festive season are the glamorized racer backs. The long flowy kalidars get a complete makeover this season and another highlight of the collection is Manish Malhotra’s version of the Gown Sari - the easy silhouettes adding to the romance of the ensemble. The Indian Cocktail Collection – Gloss by Manish Malhotra will be available in Mumbai and New Delhi at his flagship stores. NOV. / DEC. 2014 11
COVER STORY
12 NOV. / DEC. 2014
Photos: Manish Malhotra
IndianCocktail Collectionby
NOV. / DEC. 2014 13
COVER STORY
IndianCocktail Collectionby
14 NOV. / DEC. 2014
NOV. / DEC. 2014 15
Photos: Manish Malhotra
INSTYLE
London
Calling A Style Destination Where Boho-Chic meets Sporty Luxe!
16 NOV. / DEC. 2014
Photos: Global Desi
I
njecting an electrifying dose of bohemianchic fashion, straight from the style streets of London, Global Desi introduces “London Calling” - a collection which resonates with the inherent travelling spirit of, the Global Desi girl-a collection which is innately urbane, yet, intrinsically Indian in essence! A mix of street style fashion ensembles, bursting with a kaleidoscope of the season’s hottest hues, this latest offing from Global Desi, gives wings to your sartorial senses, and allows you to forgo the beaten track, and carve your own global fashion road. The ‘London Calling’ campaign, offers a colourful glimpse of the ‘Global Desi Girl’, having a catwalk moment on the cobblestoned streets of London, as she absorbs the wondrous delights of the city, and prances around from Tate to Portobello to Hyde Park, flaunting the latest styles from the collection. The collection offers sporty-luxe silhouettes, like bomber jackets, culottes, skirts, dungarees, and a range of comfortable knits and denims, in bold pops of colours like, blue, red, purple, pink, with undertones of white and black which reflect the city’s cosmopolitan tone. A heady cocktail, where global trends and Indian aesthetics, influence style in equal measure – ‘London Calling’
is, the new language in fashion for the global woman. About Global Desi Global Desi is, an India-inspired young, colourful, boho-chic brand, with global appeal. Any woman wherever in the world she may be – who loves, lives and breathes the vibrancy of Indian prints and influences, will find a little bit of herself in this label. The collection celebrates the modern woman and her zest for creativity. It is for a woman, who sets her own rules and her creativity is not
bound by anything. She flaunts her identity with pride; is free spirited and leaves a lasting impression. The Global Desi collection is, predominantly India-inspired and delves deep into our rich heritage of colours, textures and prints, to combine them to create international appeal. Launched in 2008, the brand is currently available across 71 exclusive brand outlets and multi brand stores across the country. Global Desi opened its first store in Mauritius in 2013. Plans are underway, to open stores in other destinations, all over the world. NOV. / DEC. 2014 17
PORTFOLIO
Andres Aquino
Subtle, Stylish, Classy & Fun 18 NOV. / DEC. 2014
Photos: Ron Carr, www.CoutureFashionWeek.com
A
ndres Aquino, a fixture of the New York fashion scene is an award-winning fashion designer and also the founder and producer of Couture Fashion Week New York. Andres Aquino has shown his collections at prestigious fashion events worldwide including in Dubai, Bucharest, New Delhi, Mexico and the Caribbean, as well as in multiple cities in the USA, and has been featured in numerous top fashion media and publications in Europe, Asia, Africa and Latin America, North America, and The Caribbean including Collezioni, Book Moda, ModaStyle International, Fashion TV, Russian TV, Chinese TV, and many more. Andres Aquino deems fashion to be wearable, stylish and fun. His semi-annual runway fashion shows in New York have become well-known for their mix of charm, fantasy, music and dance, blending Broadway entertainment with delightful luxury fashion and pleasant surprises. He is a firm believer that professional fashion shows should not be just for the trade, but for all people who buy and enjoy fashion, and his models reflect the variety and diversity of New York's rich ethnic and racial melting pot. He always likes to touch the emotional core of the audience with his shows and meet his clients and fans in person. He is jack of all trades.. a poet, writer, actor, director, producer, manager, artist, photographer, fashion designer all in all a very accomplished businessman. You name it and he is done it all. He received his B.A. summa cum laude and M.A. and was awarded “Scholar of the College� from Boston College. He has years of experience in show production, facility management, talent management, event coordination, publishing, and market research as well as teaching, writing, theater directing and business administration.
In addition, he has worked in international business consulting, exporting and importing as well as fashion design and fashion merchandising to the boutique market. As a fashion and fine art photographer Aquino has covered hundreds of designer runway shows in Europe, South America, Canada, Africa and the USA. His photography work and editorials have appeared in numerous publications around the world. As founder and producer of COUTURE FASHION WEEK, launched in 2003, as well as other fashion show events, Aquino oversees all production aspects - from sponsors to designers, from venue selection to model casting, from technical staff operations to public relations.
Inspired by his experience in the fashion field and needing garments to showcase jewelry and accessories by designers participating in the fashion events, Aquino began to design gowns. The enthusiastic reaction by audiences and press encouraged him to create entire seasonal collections of high fashion evening and cocktail ensembles starting in 2008. His fashion designs have appeared in major magazines, websites and TV broadcasts, and the collections have been presented in Europe, New York and Palm Beach to great reviews. Andres Aquino currently designed headpieces for models and created using 3D printing technology by the “3D-Store NYC�. NOV. / DEC. 2014 19
PORTFOLIO
Andres Aquino
Subtle, Stylish, Classy & Fun
20 NOV. / DEC. 2014
NOV. / DEC. 2014 21
Photos: Ron Carr, www.CoutureFashionWeek.com
RUNWAY
ANDRES AQUINO
ALEXANDRA POPESCU
DAWN SUNFLOWER
22 NOV. / DEC. 2014
JILL SETAH
EVGENIA LUZHINA-SALAZAR
NEW YORK CITY’S 20TH ANNUAL COUTURE FASHION WEEK Couture Fashion Week presented a luxurious fashion show, with a selection of stunning couture creations walking down the catwalk showcasing the latest fashion trends of the season in New York city. Andres Aquino, founder and producer of Couture Fashion Week selected Leah Danielle as this year’s Couture featured opera singer. Danielle, a Verissimo Soprano and actress, specializes in melodic Italian opera and is well known for her performances alongside world-renowned singers like Andrea Bocelli, Franco Corelli and Blanch Thebom. Aquino, who first introduced the idea of mixing opera with high fashion, said “Going to a fashion show should be more like a seeing a show on Broadway”.
Photos: Ron Carr, Roman Zygmunt Kajzer www.CoutureFashionWeek.com
MARTHA FADEL
NARINE TOVMASYAN
NOV. / DEC. 2014 23
RUNWAY
PATUNA BUSHYHEAD
NINA GLEYZER
UPSCALES FASHIONS
24 NOV. / DEC. 2014
NORTHEAST INDIA ACADEMY OF PERFORMING ARTS PRESENTS MOI
Photos: Ron Carr, Roman Zygmunt Kajzer www.CoutureFashionWeek.com
NEW YORK CITY’S 20TH ANNUAL COUTURE FASHION WEEK
VO VIET CHUNG
NOV. / DEC. 2014 25
IN THE SPOTLIGHT playback, including Vishal Dadlani, which led to her debut in the title track of Chennai Express. Shortly after her debut for Bollywood playback, Jonita was contacted to record for jingles and regional films including two Bengali films. Her biggest break was when she received a call from the studios of renowned maestro A.R. Rahman, which opened a new door on her path of successes. Her first Bollywood solo, Kahaan Hoon Main from the movie Highway, was an excellent showcase hot her eastern and western musical influences. She made it her own, as she was part of the song from the initial hummingthrough-composition stages to recording the final song. Since then, Jonita has had the opportunity of working with Rahman on several Bollywood tracks, as well as two songs in his Raunaq album for politician Kapil Sibal. Jonita’s work as a recording and performing artist is yet in its budding stage. Her desire and determination to grow as a vocalist continues to help her excel in her career. Her aspirations for her career range from social aspects including making real connections with people through her music, singing to inspire, and spreading awareness about important social causes, to bridge the gap between Western and India music with fusion works. She hopes to explore her creativity in the independent music scene as well as singing for Bollywood songs. Jonita’s future as a singer looks far beyond the horizon as a promising personality.
JonitaGandhi
Toronto’s Nightingale
J
onita discovered that music was the language of her soul at a very young age. Born in New Delhi, India, she moved to Toronto as an infant and grew up with strong influences in Canadian culture while maintaining a close connection to her Indian heritage. Raised in a home filled with musical interests and talents, dancing and singing around the house was encouraged by her family. It was her father, a professional musician himself, who recognized her rhythm and pitch. In her early years, she was known amongst her peers for her talent as a dancer, with recognizable skills in Bollywood and Hip Hop styles. But it wasn’t only movement that drew Jonita’s heart close to dance; it was her profuse love for music. While growing up listening to and learning a variety of musical styles, Jonita has become a true experimentalist in her vocal art. She enjoys opportunities to try new styles and sing in different languages. Jonita began singing on stage at the tender age of 4, and has managed to pursue an exciting musical career while maintaining academic excellence and completing her BHSc and HBA at the Richard Ivey School of Business at the University of Western Ontario. Her journey to success as a singer began in her university years, winning first place in various competitions including NATS atYork University, 2011 Asian Idol at University of Western Ontario, winning Sonu Nigam’s contest for English-language tribute to Michael Jackson, and winning the competition to open for Kailash Kher’s concert in Toronto. Jonita’s versatility as a singer spans her strongly across various genres including: Sufi, Bollywood, Western Classical, RnB, Pop and Soft Rock just to name a few. She has sung not only in Hindi and English, but also Punjabi, Bengali, Tamil, German, Italian and French for live and recorded performances. She has been trained by the Conservatory of Music in Western Classical singing and now studies Indian Classical music during her travels to India.
26 NOV. / DEC. 2014
In January 2012, a collaborative effort between three talented musical personalities was ignited by composer, artist and pianist Aakash Gandhi. It brought together the trio of himself, flutist Sahil Khan, and Jonita Gandhi with vocals in an online forum on Aakash’s YouTube channel 88keystoeuphoria. Their cover of Pani Da Rang has been viewed by over 2.7 million people worldwide, which initiated Jonita’s international fan following and helped her gain recognition from prominent Bollywood personalities including Amitabh Bachchan, AR Rahman, Ayushmann Khurana and Salim Sulaiman. Her YouTube works with “Toronto’s Gunsmith & Mohit” and Indian band "SQS Project" have introduced her to the independent desi music scene where she has also created a significant fan following. Her successes grew rapidly, as her talents brought her star-studded opportunities including opening acts for Sunidhi Chauhan’s concert at the Sony Centre in Toronto, as well as Sonu Nigam’s Close To My Heart tour for which she is now an integrated part of the production as it continues to tour internationally. Other performances include appearances with singers Chang, Parthiv Gohil, and Chinmayee, and the Michigan Philharmonic Symphony. Jonita has recently headlined her own shows with Aakash Gandhi in Dubai, Singapore and India. While in India, Jonita has appeared in several prestigious performances and media appearances. In addition to performing as the lead female singer with Sonu Nigam across the nation, recently, Jonita was selected to perform live on TV for Priyanka Chopra’s Our Girls Our Pride telethon that broadcasted internationally on NDTV. She has been featured in several articles and interviews on TV and in print both in Canada and India, including Hindustan Times, Asian Television Network, Times of India, and Bollywood Film Fare Canada to name a few. With her online presence and videos, she gained recognition by music producers in Bollywood
Photos: Jonita Gandhi
Exploring her Creativity
ACCOMPLISHMENTS: n Won Sonu Nigam’s contest to sing for his tribute to Michael Jackson, 2009. n 1st place at 2011 Asian Idol at the University of Western Ontario, Canada. n Finalist at Iamnextsuperstar competition in March 2011 judged by Sonu Nigam and Suresh Wadkar. n 1st place in her category at the 2011 NATS competition at York University, Canada. n Featured at IIFA Awards Toronto 2011 in opening segment. n Opened for Sunidhi Chauhan concert at Sony Centre in Toronto, 2011. n Completed BHSc and HBA at the Richard Ivey School of Business at the
University of Western Ontario - 2012. Lead female singer for Ash King’s MTV Unplugged shows in India, February 2012. n Featured in Naveen Kumar’s album “Flutetronics”. n Performed with Michigan Philharmonic Symphony in May 2012. n Performed in Sonu Nigam’s “Klose to My Heart” US & Canada Tour 2012 and Europe tour 2013. n Performs and tours with Sonu Nigam at his shows across the world. n Popular YouTube videos with Musician Aakash Gandhi have been recognized by many industry greats including Salim Merchant, Amitabh Bachan, Sohail Sen. n Lead female in “Band Baaja Sanskriti” 2012 musical production (singingdancing-acting). n Featured in Clinton Cerejo’s Coke Studio episode in the song “Pinjra”, August 2013. n Headlined shows in Dubai with Aakash Gandhi, April/May 2013. n Vocals for Priyanka Chopra’s Hero Pleasure ad film. www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZwVBFrwK4jo n Headlined her first concert in Brampton, ON, Jonita Gandhi: Beyond Unplugged with Aakash Gandhi and Sahil Khan featuring her home band Sargam Music, April 2014. n Performed in Sonu Nigam’s “Klose to My Soul” Caribbean & North American Tour 2014. n
PLAYBACK: n Maaloom (Lekar Hum Deewana Dil, 2014) n Dil Chaspiya (Kochadaiiyaan, 2014) n Kahaan Hoon Main (Highway, 2014) n Implosive Silence (Highway, 2014) n Eai Ki Prem (Bangali Babu English Mem, 2014) n E Mon Aajkal (Majnu, 2013) n Chennai Express (Chennai Express, 2013) n Aabhi Jaa (Album: Raunaq, Composed by: A.R. Rahman, 2014) NOV. / DEC. 2014 27
&MATCH
MIX
GlitzySecrets.com Twenties Drama Hair Slide
Diva at Miss Selfridge Rhinestone Torque Nacklace
Wallis Knitted Shawl
Its Vintage Darling Retro 1950s Style Red Heart Clutch Bag
Don’t Forget the
Elegance
Wallis Floral Print
Whether it’s for a Romantic Night out or your Bosses Soiree, you can never go Wrong with a Little Bling.
New Look Red Stud Heel Miss Selfridge Black Stud Heel
28 NOV. / DEC. 2014
BHS Ear Silver Ring with White Pearls
Folli Follie Hot Pink Bag
Miss Selfridge Black Stud Heel
Phase Eight Galina Sequin Full Length Dress Freedom at Topshop Laser-Cut Stone Cuff
Folli Follie Ring
Dorothy Perkins Jewellery Bracelets
What’s About Town? Silver Style Layered Leaf Bracelet
Spylovebuy.com Exquisite Block Heel Zip Peep Toe Ankle Boots - Snake Print
NOV. / DEC. 2014 29
&MATCH
MIX
Orsay Bag
New Look Red Flower Headband
Gemporia Ethipoian Cherry Opal & White Topaz Sterling Silver Ring
Ladyin Red
It’s Dangerous, it’s Classic and it’s Chic. Red is the Perfect Pop of Colour to make or Complete any Sexy Style.
Get The Label Womens TFNC Patcha Plunge Gown Dress in Red.
30 NOV. / DEC. 2014
Wallis Jewellery Red Flower Stud Earrings
Orsay Knitted Scarf
Freedom at Topshop Red Braclet Spylovebuy.com Metallic Heel Diamante Prom Court Shoes Red Satin Style
MEHNDI
I Mehndi Maestro
PavanAhluwalia Body Art at its Best. 32 NOV. / DEC. 2014
Photos: Pavan Ahluwalia
I
mmersing herself into the World of Henna and design from the tender age of seven, Pavan has been creating mehndi trends professionally for the past five years and is now one of the leading Henna Artists in the UK. The self-taught artist reclaimed her Guinness World Record title as the World’s fastest Henna Artist on February 27, 2012, after painting 511 Henna Mehndi Armbands in one hour, on students at Goodmayes Primary School in Ilford, England and each design was unique. She broke her own previous record of 314 set back in 2008 when she was only 24-years old. Ahluwalia held the record until Dipti Desai of India created 380 Armbands on October 21, 2011. Incorporating details like glitter, diamante and even coloured body paint into her fusion of bespoke designs, she transforms her intricate patterns into breathtaking works of art, and it’s these unique facets of her work that she will capitalise on to garner greater exposure for Henna design. Despite her entrepreneurial streak, Pavan will not compromise on the quality and attention given to her clients. Her approach to design work is completely pioneering. Pavan has worked with celebrities and recognised names like Selfridges, Harrods, Sky TV, and BBC on various high-profile projects. A massive part of Pavan’s appeal is that she not only keeps up to date with the latest design trends, she creates them. Pavan then coordinates her bespoke designs to complement outfits and jewellery, resulting in
plenty of ‘wow-factor’. Despite fast becoming something of a celebrity herself, Pavan remains deeply rooted and down to earth. Pavan launched her first henna bar this 1st May 2014 in Selfridges London. It is the perfect destination to get your Henna done with the highest professionalism and in the most comfortable and convenient environment. “We have made henna accessible for all, whether it is henna for your wedding, a corporate event of just a beautiful design you feel like having done. We are the link between east and west, making our cultural art a mainstream accessory and within reach for everyone to enjoy!” NOV. / DEC. 2014 33
MAKEUP
Get your
Best
With Essence Cosmetics.
xpressing your essence has never been so fabulous! This holiday season essence cosmetics introduces the perfect gift to give and the perfect gift to get with the launch of their latest Holiday Limited Edition Collection. Available across Canada exclusively at Shoppers Drug Mart and Pharmaprix, this NEW essence trend edition will be hitting shelves November 2014. Always brilliant, glam and fun, essence’s holiday collection includes their new line of how-to Make-up Boxes. Each box is curated to help you create the most coveted makeup looks, containing a perfect pallet with everything you’ll need to make the look your own with simple “how to” steps. With new shades, formulas and finishes, essence’s Holiday Limited Edition Collection puts a festive twist on the beloved classics.
How to make bright eyes makeup box This new eye palette contains six easy-towear matte and shimmery shadows to create the brightest holiday eyes! The shadow collection includes shades of apricot, vanilla, rose, and taupe. The make-up box has 2 easy-to-follow, step-by-step instruction cards to create a daily looks and a glamorous look, a mirror, and an applicator. 34 NOV. / DEC. 2014
How to make nude eyes makeup box In love with nude‌ the unique how to make nude eyes make-up box contains six matte and shimmery shadows to create beautiful nude eye looks. The nude shadow collection includes shades of beige, gold, apricot, and browns. The make-up box has 2 easy-to-follow, step-by-step instruction cards to create every day to girls’ night out looks, a mirror, and an applicator.
Gel eye pencil waterproof - 01 black blaze & 06 cocoa bean Now you can get the long lasting results of a potted gel eyeliner in a portable and retractable pencil! This velvety, highly pigmented, and waterproof formula creates the most beautiful, enduring holiday eye looks!
XXXL longlasting lipgloss mirror shine effect - 13 nude mood & 03 very berry Mirror, mirror on the wall, who has the most brilliant shine of them all? XXXL longlasting lipgloss! The moisturizing and long lasting formula comes in subtle and bright shades. Perfect for any holiday pout!
Photos: www.essence-cosmetics.com
Get BIG! lashes volume curl mascara The large, curved fiber brush offers maximum volume and a gorgeous curl for eye-opening lashes!
NOV. / DEC. 2014 35
SPA
Sensual RitualsZenbar Healing Studio t Zenbar, healing therapies from all around the world are incorporated under one roof, you will find a Himalayan Salt room, a Moroccan Hammam steam sanctuary, detoxification rooms with heated treatment slabs and pedicure chairs that recline to zero gravity for the ultimate in relaxation. Each treatment perfectly blends natural products, holistic touch and luxury to result in a unique, whole-body experience.
Luxury Spa Services From the impeccable service you receive to the music you hear, you can expect perfection. The pedicure chairs are three of a kind… with the push of a button you are relaxed into a blissful zero gravity position and the facial rooms are decked out with heated blankets and candles. And did we mention that all of the spa services incorporate body massage? Relax with a cup of tea and a good book in the lounge. Let the healing begin! Massage & Body Work Massage Therapy can be a powerful ally in your healthcare regimen creating specific physiological and chemical changes that cascade throughout the body with profound effects. Research continues to show the enormous benefits of touch – which range from treating chronic diseases, neurological disorders, injuries and alleviating the tensions of modern lifestyles.
A 4000 SQUARE FEET OF LUXURY HEALING SPACE COMPLETE WITH A YOGA STUDIO & DETOX SPA LOCATED IN SOUTH EAST OAKVILLE, ONTARIO. STUNNING INTERIOR FEATURING HIMALAYAN SALT WALLS, HEATED MARBLE TREATMENT SLABS, HAMMAM STEAM ROOM AND TRANQUIL MEDITATION ROOM LIT BY CANDLES. 36 NOV. / DEC. 2014
Therapeutic benefits include n Relieves knots and muscle spasm in the back and body. n Alleviates back pain and improves joint flexibility and range of motion. n Enhances immunity by stimulating lymph flow. n Lessens depression and anxiety and relieves migraines. n Promotes tissue regeneration, reducing scar tissue and stretch marks. n Pumps oxygen and nutrients into tissues and vital organs, improving circulation. n Relaxes and softens tired, injured and overused muscles.
clean air on a regular basis. Additional benefits include detoxification, immune boosting, skin improvement, increasing lung capacity for athletic performance, relaxation and sleep improvement. Salt is an excellent conductor of negative ions, which control balance between the insulin and adrenal functions in the autonomic nervous system. This provides a strong resistance to disease making salt cave visits an excellent part of a healthy lifestyle. Don’t worry about being around others who might be coughing… the extreme ventilation and sterile setting in this cave ensures that fresh air is pumped into the space every other second.
Hammam Steam Sanctuary Inspired by the bathing rituals performed in Morocco and Turkey, this sensual ritual incorporates steam, warmth, detoxification, circulation and relaxation. Recline on your own slab of warm stone and relax amidst the warm steam, infused with eucalyptus.
Healing Benefits Respiratory Care – Breathing difficulty including asthma, sore throat, bronchitis, sinus or ear infections, hay fever, smokers cough, cystic fibrosis, chronic cough, dust, animal or pollen allergies, runny nose, snoring and sleep apnea. Exposure to poor ventilation such as work hazards, re-circulated air (especially air-conditioning or forced air heating), exposure to sick or infected people in daycares or medical centers or those with common colds or flus. Skin Care – Skin disorders including eczema, psoriasis and acne. Self Care – Stress reduction, which can lower blood pressure and help with insomnia.
Photos: Zenbar Healing Studio
Healing Benefits The medical benefits of the Hammam date back to 200 B.C. when the father of medicine, Hippocrates, said, “Give me the power to create a fever and I shall cure any disease.” Steam raises the body temperature above normal, and stimulates the immune system to increase production of antibodies. This traditional steam experience allows the body to absorb heat, which stimulates the immune system and results in a total well-being experience. The benefits of Hammam use include pain relief, muscle relaxation and respiratory benefits. With the aide of massage, the Hammam efficiently releases toxins from the body. It is no wonder that after centuries of use the Hammam has taken on the unofficial name of ‘Silent Doctor’. Salt Cave & Halotherapy It is said that one hour in the salt cave has the healing and well-being benefit of three days by the ocean! Inspired by the healing rituals practiced in European salt mines since the early 19th Century, the salt room mimics the natural healing environments of authentic salt caves. This safe and natural therapy is suitable for people of all ages who wish to maintain optimum health and for those who suffer from respiratory ailments such as asthma, bronchitis, inflammation or common colds/flus. Using dry aerosol salt particles, the room is sterile, allergen-free and an excellent environment to breathe fresh,
Weight Loss & Detox Every day we are consuming more pollutants and toxins from our food and the environment than ever before, putting our organs under even more pressure to process them. The more toxins your body absorbs, the harder it becomes to detoxify naturally. Detox (short for detoxification) is based on the concept that your body needs help to get rid of unwanted toxins from contaminants absorbed from processed foods and the environment. In theory, once free of toxins, your body functions better and your metabolism soars so you can shed those extra pounds and improve healthy body function. Detox treatments are designed to eliminate the build-up of waste toxins in your body and also boost the body’s natural detoxification process so it can function more effectively. In a natural state, your body should detoxify itself quite naturally. The liver, kidneys, skin and lymph system are all vitally important to this process. The liver, the largest detoxifying organ in the body, processes toxins and then passes them on to the kidneys or skin to be excreted from the body. But if toxins build
up, the organs cannot process them quickly enough and the natural process of detoxification slows down, making you feel sluggish, tired and stressed. Detox treatments have best results when combined with detox meal plans. After completing a detox plan you should notice you have clearer skin, some weight loss, more energy, less cellulite, and you should be feeling more relaxed. Your immune system has also received a boost, as there are fewer toxins to fight in your body. Holistic & Energy Work The North American natural health industry has evolved in recent years to incorporate healing modalities from around the world and we are pleased to offer these natural healing techniques into our suite of healing services. Traditional Chinese Medicine, Neuro-Logistic Programming (NLP), Energy Healing and a variety of workshops are incorporated to introduce clients to the world of natural health. Pods & Infrared Therapy This cutting edge technology is used in many of the best hospitals and healing retreats in Europe and its healing benefits are endless. Refresh, Relax, Repair, and Rejuvenate in our state of the art light capsule where the benefits of infrared sauna are just the beginning. The Alpha Pod provides holistic, wholebody treatments to relax, cleanse, balance and detoxify. In this healing environment the body is simultaneously treated using LED Light, infrared heat, sound therapy, aromatherapy, ionized air, vibration massage and oxygen therapy. The comprehensive body treatments include treatment for weight loss, skin improvement, pain relief, sleep/insomnia, energy, immune boost and over all health and wellbeing. The alpha pod increases vitality, metabolic activity, lymphatic stimulation and cell activation. All of your healing experiences are performed by experienced holistic practitioners who incorporate luxury products and massage at their core. You can expect scalp, hand or foot massages as a normal part of the spa service protocol, customized to suit your personal preference. Plush robes, slippers, hot tea and impeccable service ensures that your time at the spa exceeds your expectations. At Zenbar take a break from your usual run and treat your body with peace, relaxation and respite from the outside world. NOV. / DEC. 2014 37
SKIN CARE
Youthful
Glow
Arganaturel® - All Natural Anti-Aging Skin Care.
Arganaturel® Argan Pur Oil Body Oil Argan Pur Oil Body Oil is optimized skin care. It protects the skin and revitalizes it with vitamins and fatty acids. Moreover, Arganaturel® argan oil protects the connective tissue, protects the skin from free radicals, makes it smooth and keeps it moisturized. Your skin will become smooth and soft. Application: After a bath or a shower, apply 1-2 drops of argan oil to damp, still moist skin, gently massaging it into skin. The oil will quickly be absorbed. Composition: Pure argan oil from unroasted seeds, cold pressed.* Arganaturel® Argan & Apricot Oil Facial Oil Arganaturel® Argan & Apricot Oil Facial Oil helps the skin to regenerate itself. It stimulates cellular activity, protects cells from free radicals and provides them with new energy. Arganaturel® Argan & Apricot Oil Facial Oil also contains apricot kernel oil with oleic and linoleic glycerides that moisturize the skin and make it smoother. It instantly soothes stressed skin and diminishes skin reddening. The oil can be used alone or in combination with a daily moisturizer. Application: Apply Arganaturel® Argan & Apricot Oil Facial Oil before going to bed or use it in the morning under your moisturizer by applying 1-2 drops on your face, gently massaging it in circular motions into your skin. Avoid the eyes. Composition: Pure argan oil from unroasted seeds, cold pressed.* Apricot kernel oil*
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Arganaturel® Daily Cream with 20% organic argan oil This daily moisturizer contains not only 20% argan oil, but also cocoa butter. The nourishing properties of the moisturizer revitalize the skin and make it soft and smooth. Coconut fat contains lauric acid that has an anti-inflammatory effect and soothes dry, very dry and damaged skin, making it healthy again. Shea butter softens the skin. Vitamin E protects it from free radicals, having the effect of a natural antioxidant. The essential oils are like a spa treatment for your skin. Application: Every morning, cleanse your skin and apply moisturizer to face and neck. Keep in a cool place (but not in refrigerator) and use within 3 months. Composition: Water Argan oil* Fatty alcohol Shea butter* Cocoa butter* Coconut oil* Vitamin E Essential moils Benzyl alcohol* (*) from controlled organic cultivation Arganaturel® Bust Cream Neck and décolleté are sensitive body parts that are exposed to a high amount of sun during the summer, which is why it is extremely important to treat them with special care. Arganaturel® Bust Cream is intensive skin care. Olive oil soothes irritations and prevents the skin from becoming dry, bees wax cares for dry and rough skin. Cocoa butter is absorbed quickly and smoothes the skin. Shea butter improves
the natural moisture binding capacity of the skin, making the décolleté visibly smooth. Application: Apply in the evening. Massage moisturizer in gentle circular motions, starting on the décolleté, moving upwards. After opening, store in a cool place (but not in refrigerator) and use within 6 months. Composition: Water Argan oil* Olive oil* Emulgator Wool fat Bees wax* Cocoa butter* Shea butter* Essential oils (contain linalool, citral, limonene) (*) from controlled organic cultivation
GLAMOROUS FEATURES ON SOUTH ASIAN FASHION & LIFESTYLE TRENDS. North America’s Leading Magazine. www.faizimediapublishing.com www.desifashionmag.com
HAIR CARE
Everyday
Glamour
Salon-Performance, Style Enhancing Hair Care Line-up. ith a 35-year legacy of bringing affordable luxury to mass market hair care, Key Brands International expands on their innovation and performance delivery with the introduction of four new styling products under the company’s IT HAIR CARE moniker that meet day-today styling and finishing needs for shinier, healthier-looking hair. Incorporating the latest in advanced hair care innovations, including Abyssinian Oil and IT Hair Care’s proprietary complexes of Optical Brighteners, Algae Triage Complex, Revive Volumizing Complex, and Panthenol Vitamin B-5 and UV Protection, the new line up delivers superior, longlasting styling hold, flexibility, softness and brilliant, beautiful shine. The line boasts female brand loyalists of all ages and is a professional, salon-grade line up designed to bring “everyday glamour” at affordable prices.
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IT HAIR CARE: 12-in-One Amazing Leave In Treatment for silky smooth, shiny hair. Leave-in hair repair treatment addresses 12 hair concerns in one powerful, multitasking spray. The results are revitalized, shiny, healthy hair guaranteed to turn heads! IT HAIR CARE: Surf Spray for sexy, touchable beach-like waves with all-day volume and texture. Designed to bring out hair’s natural body, this spray makes every day a day at the beach. IT HAIR CARE: Glitter Spray for a head-turning shimmer and shine spray that delivers sensational sparkle for hair and body! Instant glamour ideal for all hair types and colors. Have some fun with your ‘do day or night! IT HAIR CARE: Abyssinian Oil, a highly concentrated, light-weight serum fortified with Abyssinian and Pequi Oils to protect
and treat hair. Delivers healthy shine while smoothing the hair cuticle. Rich in antioxidants guaranteed to deliver soft, shiny, unforgettable hair. Key Brands International is known as the innovator behind the iconic gold hairspray cans – Freeze IT Mega Freeze and Freeze IT Original Freeze - and boast sales rankings amongst the top three best selling hairsprays in the U.S. FREEZE IT MEGA FREEZE: The ultimate styling sidekick. With a superior, longlasting 24- hour memory lock hold, this formula is humidity resistant and has UV filters that shield hair from the sun and environment. Optical Brighteners intensify highlights and increase light reflection, improving and enhancing all types of permanent and natural hair color. FREEZE IT ORIGINAL FREEZE: For a look you want with a formula that provides remarkable styling flexibility, lift, and a superior 24-hour memory lock hold. Perfect your ‘do with this non-flaking and non-sticking spray! This fast-drying formula is humidity resistant and offers UV protection against the sun’s damaging rays. Optical Brighteners enhance hair’s ability to intensify highlights and increase shine. ABOUT IT HAIR CARE: IT Hair Care is a salon-performance, style-enhancing collection of all-weather resistant hair sprays, mousses, hair gels, serums, and leave-in treatments for superior, longlasting styling hold, flexibility, softness, and brilliant, beautiful shine.
FRAGRANCE
Indulge your
Senses Essences that Depict & Capture Emotions Modern Seductive - Lalique Parfums – Satine - Transforms from a woman into a perfume. Lalique has taken its inspiration from the fluidity, delicacy and sensuality of satin to sculpt a woman in its image and compose her eponymous perfume: Satine. Grace and femininity accompany Satine in the busy Parisian life whose every moment she savours. She enfolds herself in a cloud of perfume and becomes the queen of hearts and the dance floor. Nathalie Lorson has composed the fragrance, exploring the smooth sensuality of white tonka bean. The perfumer depicts her work as the blend of three fragrant spheres. A first sphere highlights floral sensuality with a luminous bouquet of white flowers. A second textured and balmy sphere outlines the power of enchanting gourmand notes. Finally, a third sphere extends Satine’s smooth trail with highly contrasting woody notes. Masculine, Luxurious, Simple Lalique - Encre Noire A hymn to vetiver, a praise to modernity for a perfume with character, signed in black ink. The fragrance is compossed of Cypress, Vetiver, Cashmere Wood, Musks. The Eau de Toilette is adorned with a 42 NOV. / DEC. 2014
luxurious square of black transparent glass with a reassuring build, closed by a heavy wenge wood top, on which the lalique logo is engraved. Ultimate refinement, the texture of the black case continues the relief of the wenge wood and the name is also displayed on a shiny black ink ribbon. Pride & Glory - Parfums de Marly Pegasus In the XVIIIth Century, France was the flagship of fragrances, with Grasse and Paris as its leading Places. Horses were the pride and glory of Versailles. Perfume came into its own with the court of Louis XV, named “La cour parfumee, renowned for its scent extravagances. Every day, the king requested a different scent for his apartments and streams of aromatic scents sprang from the royal fountains. In 1743, in memory of his great-grandfather Louis XIV, Louis XV commissioned Guillaume Coustou to sculpt his famous masterpiece for the grounds of the Chateau de Marly. This magnificent work of art, known as
“The Marly Horses”, earned a place on the Champs Elysees Avenue in the heart of Paris in 1974, where it can still be admired today. Parfums de Marly revives the spirit of lavish receptions and festivities held in the Chateau de Marly, for the delight of members of the Royal Court and foreign dignitaries. Through its original concept, Parfums de Marly rekindles the spirit of fragrances from the splendour of the XVIIIth Century, when the finest perfumes were created for King Louis XV as a tribute of the prestigious horse races he so fervently admired. The Parfums de Marly line consists of 13 men’s/unisex fragrances, available as Eau de Toilette and Eau de Parfum, including best sellers Pegasus, Herod, and Darley.
The women’s line consists on three fragrances, Meliora, Safanad, and Darcy. Concentrated Energy - Parfums de Marly - Safanad Safanad, is from the ancestor of an Arabian horse breed that exists for several thousand years. The queen of Sheba presented to the wise king Solomon this thoroughbred horse named Safanad, meaning “The pure”. This fragrance from perfumes de Marly reflects the grace of a thoroughbred. Besides the excellent quality the daring elegance, the concentrated energy and the unique
Photos Courtesy The Fragrance Group
temperament completes the fragrance. The unique beauty of this breed is poured in with this intense fragrance. A subtle blend of Orange blossom, Iris and Ylang-ylang flows to bring long-lastingness along with Amber, Sandalwood and Vanilla. Natural Essence - Tiziana Terenzi The creation of these perfume essences comes from the never-ending quest to depict and capture emotions. The hypnotic power and beauty of fire are always present in our lives, connecting us with great symbolic power to our emotions and to all of creation. The four new perfumes embody the four stages of a journey consumed by
fire. In fire, every emotion, every image, every fragrance comes to life and exists almost independently from our thoughts. The Tiziana Terenzi candle line is 100% made in Italy and are made of food-grade paraffin to burn clean to the bottom. Each candle contains 20% fragrance, where the industry standard is usually 10% fragrance. The logo adored on the outside of the glass is realized with precious 24-carat gold using a technique for the application of the precious metal. Finally, all Terenzi candles have wooded wicks made up of teak wood, which offer a cracking sound when burned, reminiscent of a wood-burning fire. The Tiziana Terenzi candle range includes both white and black candles in three different sizes, Gioconda 170g, Foco 500g and Camino 900g in all 12 scents: Extreme Sense, Gold Rose Oudh, White Fire, Mediterranean, Ischia Orchid, Spicy Snow, Ecstasy, Black Fire, Almond Vanilla, Ebony & Teak, Capri Fig, and XIX March. NOV. / DEC. 2014 43
GIFT COLLECTION
Fall/Winter 2014/15
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ith the unique touch of light that characterizes its collections, Swarovski is the ideal destination for those looking for a Christmas gift with an extra special sparkle. Swarovski’s Christmas collection is brimming with gift ideas and the perfect pieces for those who love minimal elegance, adore color, or are looking for strong and bold designs. The perfect balance between on-trend and timeless designs, the collection features jewels and accessories that provide an injection of instant glamour to be worn every day, from day to night. From a subtle touch of elegance to a dramatic evening effect: whatever the occasion, and however the style, Swarovski is the ideal companion. Alongside beautiful jewelry and accessories, there are also exquisite home accessories, watches, and small leather goods, as well as designs perfect for men. As such, Swarovski’s multifaceted Christmas range features gifts as diverse as champagne toasting flutes, candleholders, cuff links, and evening bags. Gift ideas that epitomize Swarovski’s iconic values and are testament to the brand’s unparalleled attention to detail. From highly accessible to truly exclusive, each and every piece is guaranteed to add light and sparkle to everyone.
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ACCESSOSORIES Diva at Miss Selfridge Plush Earring
Freedom at Topshop Square Stud Earing
Internacionale Crystal Belt GlitzySecrets.com Deco Drama Earrings
Freedom at Topshop Plain And Rhinestone Ring Pack
Accessible
Accessories
As we Move Back into the Dark Colours of Winter Fashion, adding some Colour with your Accessories is a Great way to add some Fun to your Look.
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Internacionale Gold Pink Earrings
Freedom at Topshop Square Stud Necklace
Freedom at Topshop Studded Bracelet
Gemporia Rhodolite Garnet Ring in Sterling Silver
Freedom at Topshop Black and Silver Bracelet
Boticca Pineapple Ring - Gold & Green Agate Diva at Miss Selfridge Rhinestone Flower Ring
What’s About Town? Dark Silver Style Crystal Bracelet,
Internacionale Green Jewel Necklace Gemporia Blue Topaz & Rhodolite Garnet Sterling Silver Ring
Dorothy Perkins Jewellery Sparkling Crystal Bangle
What’s About Town? Blue Sparkling Crystal Bangle
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BOOTS
Head Over
Heels
Spylovebuy.com Heeled Knee High Riding Boots - Brown Leather Style
The best thing about the Fall and Winter are the Boots. What a Great way to have some Fun with Keeping Warm and Looking Great.
Dune Dune - Snitch Buckle Boots
Dune Ladies Over the Knee Boot with Stretch Panel Suede
Internacionale Tan Riding Boot
Spylovebuy.com Highup Buckle Lace Up Over Knee Platform Boots - Black Leather Style
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Spylovebuy.com Flat Buckle Over Knee Boots
n
Ravel Knee High Riding Boots Black
Internacionale Internacionale Tan Over the Knee Boot
Spylovebuy.com Block Heel Buckle Zip Knee High Boots Tan Leather Style
Matalan Grey Heeled Boot
Spylovebuy.com Highup Buckle Lace Up Over Knee Platform Boots Black Suede Style
New Look Croc Knee High Chain Boot
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EYEWEAR
Vogue eyewear shares the same passion for fashion as the fashion bible it takes its name from. And since 1973 has created quality fashion forward eyewear. With innovative approaches to retro and contemporary styling Vogue uses high quality materials including premium acetate and Swarovski crystals. 50 NOV. / DEC. 2014
Photos: SHOP
MakeaBold Statement
CLOTHES THAT SPEAK THE LANGUAGE OF YOUR HEART.
www.vanitakollections.com www.vkdesigns.net
MUST HAVE
Normal
Earphones A Revolutionary way of Listening to Music.
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Customize. Normals are truly tailor-made. Using Normal’s mobile app (available on iPhone and Android phones), users take photos of each ear (no two are alike) and are led through a customization flow to design their earphones. There are infinite ways to personalize Normals and countless possible design configurations. The earphones are then tailored to fit each user’s ears and assembled to reflect his or her customization choices. No two Normals will ever be the same. Manufacture. Once an order is submitted, Normal assembles the components according to the customers’ selections and uses 3D printing to personalize the fit of each pair of earphones. This all happens out of their Chelsea flagship. The company is one of the first to use 3D printing to mass produce a consumerproduct, changing the rules (and future) of American manufacturing.
Photos: Normal
hat is Normal? Normal CEO and Founder Nikki Kaufman was tired of poor-quality earphones that didn’t fit. After going through dozens, she looked into having a custom pair made. What she found was an exhaustive process that involved a visit to the doctor’s office, uncomfortable silicon molds, a three week wait, and a $2,000 price tag. As a founding member of Quirky, a consumer products company whose mission is to “Make Invention Accessible,” Nikki was exposed to leading advances in 3D printing, production and manufacturing. She knew there had to be a way to create high-quality, better-fitting earphones, with a more accessible price and process. Her solution – Normal: an innovative brand selling tailor-made, premium earphones. Customized by the user and ordered via a free mobile app, Normals are fully personalized for each user’s ear, engineered and 3D printed in New York City, and delivered in as little as 48 hours. The company is a leader in using 3D printing technology to mass produce a consumer product, changing the rules (and future) of American manufacturing. Normals are engineered to fit each individual ear and fully customized by each user. The personalized fit allows a more precise delivery of sound. Built with high quality drivers and components, Normals offer a premium listening experience. Whether users are walking, running, working out, or simply relaxing, Normals’ personalized fit means the earphones stay comfortably in place, guaranteed. Normal is powered by the best advances in 3D printing and mobile commerce. Each pair is engineered, manufactured, and assembled in New York City and is shipped and delivered in as little as 48 hours along with its personalized carrying case – all for $199.
Deliver. Normals can be ordered from absolutely anywhere at any time. Because Normals are made inhouse, each order is engineered, manufactured, assembled, and delivered in as little as 48 hours. Normal makes it easy to buy tailor-made earphones.
THE FOUNDER. A GRADUATE OF PRINCETON UNIVERSITY, NIKKI KAUFMAN WAS A FOUNDING TEAM MEMBER AT CONSUMER PRODUCT COMPANY QUIRKY (QUIRKY.COM). SHE HAS LED SEVERAL DEPARTMENTS WITHIN THE COMPANY INCLUDING PEOPLE, CULTURE AND OPERATIONS.
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WATCH
Tag Heuer Monaco
Time Changers, Racing Pioneers
O
n the eve of the most glamorous race in motorsports, TAG Heuer hosted its annual VIP party aboard a towering luxury yacht in the brand colours at anchor in the port of Monaco, with the full squad of its longstanding Formula One racing partner, McLaren Mercedes, in attendance. The high-visibility partnership of TAG Heuer, the world leader in prestigious Swiss chronographs, with the Automobile Club de Monaco (ACM), the governing body of the iconic Grand Prix event, runs deep beneath the glamour, and is based on shared values and commitments.
TAG HEUER & ACM: TWO TIME-CHANGING PIONEERS In 1911, ACM launched the Rallye de Monte Carlo, the first event gathering drivers from all across Europe, at once to prove that steam or gas powered vehicles could successfully cross the continent in winter, and to showcase the final destination, the famous casino capital of Monte Carlo. That same year, TAG Heuer patented Time of Trip, the first 12-hour dashboard chronograph for cars and aircrafts. In 1916, Heuer unveiled another time-changing breakthrough: the first stopwatch accurate to 1/100th of a second. In 1929, ACM pioneered the first Formula 1 Grand Prix within a city centre; and 70 years later it organised the first clean-energy rally. Today, the TAG Heuer and ACM partnership includes the alternative propulsion 15th Rallye de Monte Carlo des Energies Nouvelles in March 2014. This May, however, all focus is on the key event of the racing season, the Grand Prix de Monaco –TAG Heuer’s 499th Grand Prix with its longtime partner McLaren Mercedes. The storied event gives TAG Heuer a new opportunity to assert, once again, its status as the Swiss watch brand of record in Formula One. 54 NOV. / DEC. 2014
TAG HEUER, THE WATCH BRAND WITH THE LONGEST-STANDING LEGITIMACY AND LEGACY IN F1 MOTOR RACING n The first watch brand to sponsor a professional driver – Jo Siffert, 1969. n The brand whose colours, crest and watch co-starred with the great Steve McQueen in Le Mans, 1971. n The first watch brand to partner with a Grand Prix team – Scuderia Ferrari, 1971-1979. n The most-winning watch brand at Monaco (15 victories) as part of the longest-running partnership in Formula One (29 years) with McLaren Mercedes – 1985 to now. n The Official Timekeeper of Formula One, 1992-2003 – 1/1,000 of a second. n The Official Timekeeper of Indy Racing League, 2004-2006 and again in 2014 – 1/10,000 of a second. n The Official Partner of the Monaco Grand Prix with Automobile Club of Monaco (ACM) – 2011 to now.
TAG HEUER: THE WATCH BRAND THAT INVENTED THE MOTOR-SPORTS CHRONOGRAPH TAG Heuer forged the original link between race cars and watches, then crafted and perfected it, pushing it to an unprecedented level of luxury prestige. Through its longstanding links with the best teams, drivers and cars in motor racing, the Swiss brand, the undisputed world leader in luxury sports chronographs, has pushed time and its keeping to dizzying levels of precision – 1/10th, 1/100th, 1/1,000th and 5/10,000th of a second. TAG HEUER & MONACO: THE WATCH BRAND AND THE AUTOMOBILE CLUB DE MONACO PUSH THEIR PARTNERSHIP TO THE NEXT LEVEL Every motor racing world champion from
Photo & Text: TAG Heuer
Juan Manuel Fangio to Jenson Button has been part of the TAG Heuer legend. So has almost every race in the sport, but none more so than the mythic Monaco Grand Prix, the most prestigious of them all. The role TAG Heuer plays in Monaco is unparalleled in the Swiss watchmaking world. It has sponsored more first-place Monaco drivers than any brand in history. TAG Heuer ambassadors who have crossed the checkered flag first at Monaco include Niki Lauda, Jody Scheckter, Alain Prost, Ayrton Senna, Mika Häkkinen, David Coulthard, Kimi Räikkönen, Fernando Alonso and Lewis Hamilton. In 2011, TAG Heuer and the Automobile Club de Monaco signed a historic agreement making the Swiss brand the ACM’s Official Watch and Chronograph and Eyewear Partner of its most glamorous event: the Grand Prix of Monaco.
TAG HEUER & MONACO 2014: OUT FRONT, SETTING THE PACE As with all of TAG Heuer’s racing partnerships past and present, TAG Heuer doesn’t just hang its colors on a banner and share in the champagne. Long before the race starts, TAG Heuer is down in the pits and the paddocks, working side by side with the drivers and crews. The prestigious event is the perfect foil for the newest in the TAG Heuer racing stable.
MONACO (37MM) CALIBRE 6 AUTOMATIC 2014 – FULL BLACK A Time Changer of utterly revolutionary design, and a racing legend spanning decades: when TAG Heuer launched the Monaco in 1969, the brand achieved two world firsts: the first water-resistant watch with a square case and the first automatic chronograph. The very next year, Steve McQueen fell for its stunning look and wore it in his classic Le Mans movie. The legendary actor made it an icon. Way ahead of its time then, it is still as absolutely cutting-edge in its newest incarnation, the Monaco Calibre 6 Automatic 2014. As rugged as Steve McQueen and as thrilling as the world’s most prestigious race, the 2014 Monaco Calibre 6 is completely in line with the Monaco universe. The new edition offers uncompromising styling and a daring all-black look, with black titanium carbide-coated case (with special fine-brushed and polished finishings) and crown, black dial with white luminescent markers and high-contrast red small second hand, and a black sub-counter with opalin finishing. The perforated calfskin leather strap with red lining adds that final touch of masculine swagger. NOV. / DEC. 2014 55
FOR HIM
Sunglass Junkie Clear Crystal Festival Wayfarer Sunglasses
Debenha Head Pho
Marks & Spencer Blue Harbour Navy and Brown Holdall
He’s Got It!
Casual meets Class when you Combine the Right Pieces Together. This Look is all the Rage, and the Ladies are Loving it! Next Lace up Shoes
What’s About Town? Men’s Sterling Silver Cuff Links Blue Inc Mens Blue Ripped Distressed Slim Fit Jeans
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New Look Red Tartan Scarf
ams one
New Look Biker jacket
Marks & Spencer Touchscreen Leather With Thinsulate
Crew Clothing Classic Leather Belt
Links of London Richmond L Chrono Watch
What’s About Town? Men's Sterling Silver Cuff Links
Gola Canvas Bagpack
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DÉCOR BHS Dasiy Task Lamp
Classic Home
BHS Spiked Silver Frame
A House isn’t a Home Unless it’s got some Character. Using the right Decorative Accessories, you can really make your Home pop.
The Gift Oasis Falling Bookend
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Marks & Spencer Rio Bird of Paradise Print Jug
Marks & Spencer Matt and Gloss Bud Vase
BHS Table Lamp
Amara Nickelplate Vase George Home Tile Pendant Light
George Home Crystal Beaded Frame
Amara Vibration Bowls Gold Lustre
Next Brooch vase
George Home Horse Ornament
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FOOD
Shipra Khanna
CelebratedChef
A Unique Culinary Experience on the Food.
60 NOV. / DEC. 2014
C
elebrated Chef, Shipra Khanna, winner of Master Chef India Season 2 has been taken on board by Tourism Australia and Cox & Kings as their culinary patron. They have introduced a unique culinary experience on the food reality television series, Master Chef Travel accompanied by Shipra Khanna. ‘Master Chef Travel’, will focus on the signature food and wine experiences travelers can indulge their taste buds in when in Australia. The gastronomic tour will be promoted on television during the airing of the sixth season of Master Chef Australia, as well as on print media and radio. Shipra has also opened her maiden restaurant- House of Taste in Ahmedabad as she believes that no one enjoys food as much as the people of Ahmedabad. She strives to cater to an array of taste craves with her delectable cooking and scrumptious recipes. She chose Ahmedabad over her hometown boggled by the love of food she witnessed among the people. Her love affair with cooking however began at the age of nine. In 2012, she won the title of Master Chef India in season 2 of the series. Since then, Shipra’s romance with everything culinary has only grown: from travelling the world propagating Indian food, receiving privileged tutelage from Michelin star chefs like Atul Kochar and Alain Passard to writing her own cook book ‘Spice Route’ to hosting her own TV show – Pure Sin and K for Kids on channel Food Food. Shipra works out of Mumbai and is on a pan-India sojourn that she likes to call her re-discovery of India and the many regional culinary treasures.
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FOOD
“What more can one say about this eternal favourite! I think all non-vegetarian Indians have grown up on this dish and I am no different. Chicken tikka are so tasty and come in so many varieties that even the British have tried to stake their claim on it. Well I am giving this dish my humble contribution as well; what makes it even more succulent is the yummy cheese right at its heart. So eat and enjoy!â€? - Shipra Khanna Ingredients for 2-3 servings Fresh coriander chutney 1 cup fresh coriander leaves, roughly chopped 3-4 fresh green chillies, roughly chopped 1 tbsp lime juice 1 tsp salt Chicken malai tikkas 250 gms boneless chicken, cut into bite-sized pieces 1 tsp ginger-garlic paste 1 tbsp lime juice 1tbsp cream 2tbsp cashew nut paste 1cube processed cheese(grated) 1 tbsp refined oil 2 tsp salt ½ cup cheese spread (commercial) Garnish 1 medium-sized onion, sliced in rings Method
For the fresh coriander chutney, combine all the chutney ingredients in a blender and pulse till smooth. Set aside. For the chicken malai tikkas, combine the chicken with the remaining tikka ingredients, except the cheese spread, in a bowl. Mix well and set aside to marinate for an hour. Thread the tikkas on to metal skewers and barbecue them for 8-10 minutes, turning the skewers around and basting frequently with the remaining marinade. Alternatively, put the skewers under a moderately hot gas or electric grill for 8-10 minutes, in the same way. Slip the tikkas off the skewers on to a serving platter. Quickly put a spoon of cheese spread in the centre of each piece. Serve hot garnished with onion rings and the fresh coriander chutney on the side. 62 NOV. / DEC. 2014
Chicken Malai Tikka
Turkish Lemon Pudding “A must- do on my travel list is Turkey. It’s a country of landscapes and experiences. The sparkling coastline is dotted with port towns, each full of great little restaurants serving tasty home- style meals andstreets of art galleries and shops selling jewellery. Every second corner has a pastry shop selling the irresistible baklava and Turkish delight. I can already picture myself sitting on the shores of the Bosporus onthe Asian side and looking out on to Europe or vice versa. Yes, it’s the only country that straddles Asia and Europe and that uniqueness and boldness shows in its food. The Turkish lemon pudding is a sweet, sticky, wet, lemony cake. It is intense, delicious and can even be served with a dollop of whipped cream or maybe some strong Turkish coffee.” - Shipra Khanna
Ingredients for 4 servings 300 gms refined flour ½ tsp baking powder 310 gms caster sugar 3 eggs, whisked 230 ml plain yogurt, whisked smooth Juice of ½ a lemon Syrup 155 ml water 1½ tsp lemon juice 50 gms caster sugar Method
Preheat the oven to 170⁰C. Sift the flour with the baking powder into a bowl and mix in the sugar. Add the eggs, yogurt and lemon juice and mix thoroughly, till well blended.
Beat it for 2 minutes longer to remove all lumps. Spoon the batter into a lightly greased 8” cake tin. Bake in the centre of the preheated oven for 45 minutes to 1 hour. Test if done by inserting a skewer into the centre of the cake. If it comes out clean the pudding is ready, else bake for a few minutes longer andtest again. To prepare the syrup, boil the sugar and water in a pan on high heat, till the sugar dissolves. Don’t make it too thick. Mix the lemon juice into the syrup and pour it over the cake. Wait till all the syrup has been absorbed by the cake. Turn out and serve with fresh fruits and ice-cream or fresh cream. NOV. / DEC. 2014 63
FOOD
Barabo Dhaleyka (Pumpkin Dessert)
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Ingredients for 10 servings 5 cups (about 500 gms) grated red pumpkin ½ cup corn flour 1 cup seedless raisins ½ cup almonds, blanched, peeled and slivered 3 cups condensed milk A few drops of vanilla essence Decoration ¼ cup seedless raisins ½ cup almonds, blanched, peeled and slivered
Method
Bring 4 cups of water to a boil in a pan. Add the pumpkin and cook, till it is tender. Drain the pumpkin thoroughly. Mix the corn flour with 1 cup of water in a bowl and set aside. Put the cooked pumpkin in a pan on low heat. Add the raisins and almonds, mix well and cook on low heat for about 30-45 minutes. Mix in the condensed milk and vanilla essence. Raise the heat to moderate and when it comes to boil add the dissolved corn flour. Cook, stirring all the while, till thick. Decorate with raisins and almonds and serve hot or chilled.
Ingredients for 2-3 servings Quenelles 1 litre milk Juice of 1 lemon 1 egg 2 tbsp cream ½ tsp salt Gravy 100 gms spinach, chopped and blanched 1 tbsp butter 2 garlic cloves, finely chopped 1 tsp salt ½ tsp freshly ground black pepper Method
Bring the milk to a boil in a pan on high heat. When it boils squeeze in the lemon juice and keep stirring, till the milk splits completely. Drain through a strainer lined with muslin cloth. Setaside for 15 minutes for the cheese to drain completely. Blend the cheese till it is smooth. Add the egg and cream and blend again, till smooth. Mix in the salt and shape into quenelles. Steam the quenelles for 4-5 minutes. Drain and keep warm. For the gravy, Blanch the spinach in plenty of boiling salted water for 30 seconds. Drain and refresh in cold water. Drain again and set aside. Melt the butter in a pan on moderate heat. Sauté the garlic, till fragrant. Add the spinach to the pan and cook for 2 minutes. Remove and purée to a smooth paste in a blender. The purée should have the consistency of a semi-thick sauce. To serve, spoon the spinach on to a serving dish. Arrange the cheese quenelles on top and serve hot.
Spinach& CheeseQuenelle “This recipe is a modern twist to the age old palak paneer. Palak paneer is a staple dish in any Punjabi household, but this new avatar will surely take the entire country by storm! The spinach gravy is keptsimple so that the flavours and colours of the leafy vegetable shine through. The paneer pieces are replaced by quenelles, which makes the dish look professional. A quenelle (pronounced ken-ell) can be madewith
any ingredient that has a mousse- or ice cream-like consistency. We practised quenelling in the Master Chef kitchen. It may seem difficult at first, but once you learn it, it will be your best friend. I use it togive shape to several items including koftas, meatballs and ice creams. It’s a great way to introduce interesting new shapes on your plate. The tips and tricks to get the perfect quenelle follow the recipe.” - Shipra Khanna
Tips to shape the perfect quenelle: The size of the spoon determines the size of the quenelles.With a spoon in each hand, scoop a generous amount of the ingredient you want to quenelle into it. Gently press the curve of the second spoon against the first, scooping the contents from it into the second spoon. Transfer the quenelle back to the first spoon in the same manner. This creates a smooth, rounded surface. Keep scooping back and forth till you have a smooth oval shape. With some products like ice creams, mousses and creams, you’ll need to work fast as the heat in your kitchen will affect the shape of the quenelle. It may help to dip the spoons in warm water between each scoop. Quenelles should ideally be made immediately before serving, but if you’re careful they may hold their shape for a short while either in the refrigerator or the freezer (depending on the ingredient). NOV. / DEC. 2014 65
ENTERTAINMENT
I
Diwali Festival of Lights! love you all! Mallika Sherawat crooned to frenzied fans at the Great Punjab Business Centre this past Sunday, October 12, 2014, where more than 12,000 people came together over the course of the day to enjoy the first ever-outdoor Diwali festival in the GTA. The Diwali Festival of Lights was presented by Tide. The superstar actress known for her sensuous portrayals in popular Bollywood films, made a brief appearance to officially kick off the grand fireworks display. Earlier in what was a remarkably warm day, the attendees were treated to family fun activities, amazing performances and some sumptuous Indian fare. The daylong celebration began on a high note by energetic performances by Band Baja (a brass band playing Indian tunes); followed by some foot-stomping act by renowned South Asian singer, Saima Myssa Khan who brought the crowd to their feet with an unique rendition of “Baby Doll”. Next up were Mohit Bhatnagar and Ranbir Chauhan who sang some old RafiMukesh-Kishore favourites for the crowd who demanded an encore. Parmjit Hans brought out the Bhangra with some zesty numbers that had both old and young dancing in the crowd. The audience also got to see violist, Grenville Pinto go head to head with well-known Dholi player, Tanveer with an east meets west music composition. “Diwali is all about spending time with loved ones. So, we wanted to create an event that did just that; from the youngest
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to the oldest, we wanted people to come out and spend the day with their family and friends; and celebrate Diwali like we do back home. The festival wanted people from all walks of life and cultures to enjoy the very first outdoor event: Festival of Lights,” said Sanjay Agnihotri, Director, Business Development, Metroland Specialty Markets. “And this would not have been possible without the support of P&G.” While kids enjoyed face painting, balloon making and bouncy castles, attendees enjoyed several interactive games at the various booths put up by lead sponsors Tide. “The Tide interactive game was very fast and engaging for the entire family! I even won a Mr. Clean bottle!,” said an excited Aman Gupta who came from Brampton to be a part of the festivities with his family. “Tide, Crest, Pantene and other leading P&G brands have partnered with Real Canadian Superstore® and Loblaws® to present Diwali Festival of Lights for the first time. The GTA is such a cultural mosaic and it’s time to shine a light on the festivities of this diverse city,” says Ashwin Garg, Category Brand Manager, P&G Canada. The activities were based on the Diwali theme. In one corner, there was a beauty and grooming station where attendees tried the latest COVERGIRL, Pantene, Olay, Gillette and Old Spice products to put their best face forward during Diwali.
As a crisp evening breeze settled in, singing sensation and one of the most popular contestants from Indian Idol, Bhumi Trivedi got on stage and for the next two hours and had the crowd dancing to snappy Dandia numbers including her own chartbusting hit, “Ram Chahe Leela” from the hit Bollywood film, “Goliyon ki Rasleela-Ramleela”. She sang garba and dandia numbers from popular Bollywood films as well as nostalgic folk numbers. “You are my inspiration. It is your love, participation and encouragement that makes me perform! You are the best crowd ever,” said the ecstatic Trivedi, overwhelmed by the enthusiastic response of her audience. As one of the biggest and most popular festivals in the South Asian community, Diwali celebrates the triumph of good over evil. A time to get together with the entire family, the Festival of Lights was the perfect weekend celebration! “I had the time of my life,” summed up 16 year-old Saurabh Shah, enjoying the grand finale fireworks.
Photos Supplied by Sanjay Agnihotri
Thousands Attend First Ever Outdoor
MALLIKA SHERAWAT AND BHUMI TRIVEDI SURPRISE EVERYONE AT THE EVENT.
Danish Anwar
A Comedian with Impressive Range. oronto-based stand-up comedian Danish Anwar takes hyphenated introductions to a whole new level. Born and raised in Moscow towards the end of the Cold War, he’s likely the world’s first and only Soviet-Born-Indian-BengaliCanadian-Comic. Drawing from his extensive global travels and an unhealthy obsession with politics, Danish Anwar’s material is often described as “smart”, “political” & “really, really funny”, sometimes without air quotes. A comedian with impressive range, he’s just as funny when delivering prepared jokes as he is improvising off the cuff, moving effortlessly from heavy topics like gender equality and racial discrimination to the holy grail of sex, relationships and impersonating black people on the internet. As the founder of the stand-up comedy label Toronto Comedy All Stars, Danish Anwar has also proven to be one of the best independent producers in Ontario with a reputation for exceeding seating capacity wherever the label goes. Recurring invitations to perform at Ottawa’s prestigious National Arts Centre are a fitting testament to the quality and popularity of his shows.
COMEDIAN In 2013 he was one of 7 Canadians invited to the World Series of Comedy in Las Vegas, an event featuring 101 of North America’s best standup comics. In 2012 he was chosen as one of Toronto’s hottest new comedians by The Second City (Tim Sims Encouragement Award), was a finalist in JFL42’s Funniest Torontonian search, and was nominated by the Toronto comedy community for Producer Of The Year at the “I Heart Jokes Awards” He was also a finalist in the 2011 edition of the Toronto Comedy Brawl, an annual event contested by hundreds of aspiring comedians in the GTA. He’s currently part of Yuk Yuk’s “Fast Track” roster, a shortlist of emerging comedians on the verge of being added to their permanent roster. PRODUCER A successful producer known for sold out shows & trendsetting ideas, he’s the founder of the wildly popular comedy label “Toronto Comedy All Stars”. Following a sold out tour of Ontario in the fall of 2013, the label currently enjoys recurring shows at Comedy Bar (voted Toronto’s Best Comedy Club for the last 3 years) & the world famous National Arts Centre in Ottawa. A comedian espousing progressive politics, he’s also a founding member of the satire site Riotwire.com, and frequently collaborates with like-minded organizations to raise money for worthy causes, having produced fundraisers for the Native Women’s Resource Centre of Toronto, Ontario NDP, Community Food Centres of Canada, Animal Alliance & Occupy TO.
AWARDS / ACCOLADES 2012 – NOMINATION – PRODUCER OF THE YEAR – I Heart Jokes Awards 2012 – NOMINATION – TIM SIMS ENCOURAGEMENT AWARD (FRESH MEAT): A showcase of the best new comedic acts chose by The Second City Toronto 2012 – FINALIST – FUNNIEST TORONTONIAN – JFL42 NOV. / DEC. 2014 67
Photos:MIFF 2014
PRESS BOX
STRONGER Award-winning music video “Stronger” featuring Prita Chhabra was released world wide on October 17, 2014. Fresh off it's award-winning premiere at the 2014 Melbourne Independent Filmmakers Festival, the music video “Stronger” was released on Friday, Oct 16th. The video features the music and performance of international recording artist Prita Chhabra who was at the film festival along with it’s celebrated director, Steven Shea of Abyssmal Entertainment. The video won several awards including “Best Music Video”, “The Robert W. Kurrus Humanitarian Award,” and the “Director’s Choice for Best Film” which is voted on by the festival's selected filmmakers. The video was a collaboration with the local Indian community of Brevard County whose choreographed dancing is seen annually at Indiafest in Melbourne, Florida. Shea incorporated many of the dancers into the video to give it a Bollywood style. The fabulous opening celebration of the new Manav Mandir temple in Suntree featured heavily in the imagery of the video, as well. Director Steven Shea explained, “The whole experience was incredibly humbling. To produce a video starring an incredibly warm and loving community 68 NOV. / DEC. 2014
and be immersed in a culture, which I’ve never experienced, was fantastic. Then to have that video be recognized and rewarded by your peers at the film festival, well it doesn’t get much better then that. Hopefully this video can continue to educate and inspire the South Asian community and everyone else.” Prita Chhabra continued, “It was an honor working with producer Terry Cronin and director Steven Shea on this project. I feel blessed to have met two amazing individuals who have such a passion for Indian culture and for my music. I am equally thankful to the Melbourne community and the members of the Manav Mandir temple for coming out and participating in this project. Everyone brought their own stories and talents to this video and that is what really made this project shine in its own unique way. The video has given my song a new face and new meaning: We are all connected, and when we collaborate together, we are all stronger. It is possible to unite regardless of our cultural or religious beliefs and form a global community. This community effort resulted in a larger than life
Photos:Paul Lepinskie
FEATURING PRITA CHHABRA
result and it became bigger than anything I think any of us had envisioned. I hope to continue to be involved with music and projects that inspire many young girls, especially south Asians to follow their dreams, and I hope they dream even bigger for themselves.” The song “Stronger” is available for download on iTunes.
JASMINE SANDLAS SINGS ‘MOMBATTI’ OF THE PAKISTANI FILM HOTAL From the Urban music scene to Bollywood, Jasmine Sandlas has a voice that is transcending genres and borders. Her latest musical contribution is the song MOMBATTI from the upcoming Pakistani film Hotal, directed and written by Khalid Hasan Khan. MOMBATTI finds itself in a psycho-thriller said to introduce a new level of creativity to Lollywood (Pakistani Film Industry). Discussing the new track that she has sung and penned, Jasmine Sandlas says, “It was a challenge for me to write a song in Punjabi that captured the sensual emotions of romance and intimacy simultaneously. It is a pleasure to collaborate with talented entrepreneurs like Mr. Khalid Hasan Khan. I wish him the best of luck for his movie [Hotal]. I can't wait till the fans hear Mombatti.” Jasmine Sandlas is constantly reinventing herself as an artist and continues to surprise fans with her music. MOMBATTI reveals a new side to Sandlas just scratching the surface of her artistic ability. Khan describes MOMBATTI as “The Emancipation Proclamation of Romance for the women of 21st century by an innocent heart.” Hotal, due out later this year, is an independently produced thriller by Khalid Hasan Khan. Despite its early recognition primarily in the Pakistani community, Hotal is a film for the masses. The movie’s Western influences within the filmmaking is set to establish a new standard within Lollywood. While MOMBATTI may be Jasmine Sandlas’ first contribution to Pakistani cinema, it is not the first we are hearing from her. She made waves with “Muskan” in 2008. Jasmine Sandlas released her second album Gulabi in 2012 with Sony Music, produced by Bohemia. The Gulabi Queen connected with fans, new and old, and let her music infiltrate the Punjabi scene. It was a matter of time before the mainstream Indian music scene took notice connecting Jasmine Sandlas with producer and artist Yo Yo Honey Singh. This collaboration resulted in “Yaar Naa Miley” from the Salman Khan starrer Kick. Her debut in Bollywood received worldwide recognition as it topped music charts. Now independently working on her next album and projects that inspire her, Jasmine Sandlas is a mainstream Desi talent who is creating a space for the female Urban talent. MOMBATTI is now out! iTunes: https://itunes.apple.com/us/album/mombatti/id933338873?i=933338881
NOV. / DEC. 2014 69
HOT SPOT
Have you ever wanted to fly, float in the air like a bird, well here is your chance… As long as you are willing to have some fun you have an opportunity to enjoy this sensation at the iFly Toronto centre, located 30 minutes west of Toronto, off the highway. You’ve never tried free falling before... Regardless of your experience level, whether you are a skydiver or not or are just curious about the concept Indoor free-fall skydiving is for everyone. This activity is available for all including ones with disabilities. It is so easy that it is accessible to children aged 4 years and older. The feeling of flying is unique. Flying in a vertical wind tunnel is comparable to the free-fall portion of a skydive. You will not feel like you are falling; rather, the sensation is one of floating. You will be supported by the air in the flight chamber and, once in a stable position, you will be able to move around inside the tunnel. After just a few minutes, you’ll know why birds sing! 70 NOV. / DEC. 2014
iFLY, a Revolutionary Concept… They are the only recirculating wind tunnel in Ontario, second one in Canada, the first one being Montréal, built in 2009. The idea of living the free-fall experience indoors dates back to the 1960s and evolved until 1998, when the first generation of the vertical wind tunnel was introduced. A team composed of 4 instructors were soon able to prove how accurate the simulator is after they won an important free-fall competition just from training in the wind tunnel and having only done a few actual jumps. Since then, all competing teams train in vertical wind tunnels. The iFly sky fall experience is not a roller coaster-type activity; it teaches people skills. People can become professional tunnel flyers if they train and even compete, as tunnel flying just became an official world sport a few months ago. What is it? It's an opportunity to experience the sensation of free-fall. Imagine a 14-foot cylindrical diameter vertical tube that is 45
Photos: iFly Indoor Skydiving
At iFly Toronto - an Epic Experience
feet tall in which the airstream is passing at a speed of 175 km per hour. Once inside the wind tunnel, you will have a real sense of what skydivers experience during the free-fall portion of their jump, which is generally done from 13 500 to 3 500 feet of altitude at a speed of 200 km per hour.
Benefits of flying at iFLY Toronto n Fun! n Family oriented activity – kids can fly too! n Exhilarating experience in a safe environment. n They can do this activity with friends and family and share the experience. n Learning new skills. n Host Parties & Events and expose your friends to a unique experience.
Safety first… The activity is very safe. The instructors go through an extensive training, are always in the flight chamber, the flights are always 1 on 1 flights with the instructors for first time flyers. The activity is so safe that even 4 year olds can do it. The only danger is that it’s addictive!
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ADVENTURE
Undiscovered
Cuba
Natural Habitat Adventures Showcasing Culture and Nature. atural Habitat Adventures (Nat Hab), the world’s premier nature travel company, lifts the veil on Cuba and introduces a new way to experience this captivating island that has long been inaccessible to American travelers. The 12-Day itinerary will explore Cuba’s intriguing culture and stunning tropical ecosystems on an educational exchange designed to provide a human perspective on the natural side of this Caribbean island nation. On Natural Habitat Adventures’ “Undiscovered Cuba,” guests will experience the vibrant cultural centers of Havana and Trinidad as well as virtually unknown national parks, rare botanical gardens, lush tropical ecosystems and fabulous birdlife while interacting with Cuban scientists, naturalists, park managers, academics, organic farmers, community activists, artists, business owners and others eager to share their stories. “This is a rare opportunity to embrace the daily lives of citizens here. Cuba has been off-limits to American tourists for decades. We are among a select few companies to secure a special U.S. government permit through the newly established People-toPeople program, allowing us to offer this 72 NOV. / DEC. 2014
exclusive travel opportunity to our privileged guests,” said Ben Bressler, Natural Habitat’s founder and president (www.nathab.com/). 2015 departures, each for a maximum of 15 guests, are: Feb. 10, Feb. 27, and Apr. 18. The per-person double occupancy rate is $7,695, based on a group size of 10 or more. Both international and internal flight costs are in addition to the trip fee. Internal air is $550 (subject to change). Nat Hab books the international flight from Miami to Cienfuegos, Cuba, and the return from Havana to Miami. These flights are organized through a licensed charter company authorized to provide direct flights to Cuba. In addition to Cuban culture and history, this one-of-a-kind trip also showcases Cuba's natural side. Through one-on-one visits with Cuban hosts, guests understand how contemporary Cubans respect and manage the country’s natural resources and diversity. Highlights include World Heritage Sites and UNESCO Biosphere Reserves and hosted visits to organic farms and community-run ecotourism projects. Among them are: n Zapata National Park: “As far as we know, we are the only current People-to-People tour operator including it in their itinerary,” said
Bressler. Situated on Cuba's southern coast, this UNESCO Biosphere Reserve covers 1.5 million acres harboring some 1,000 plant species, of which 130 are endemic to Cuba, and showcasing a great diversity of habitats such as grasslands, mangroves, varied types of forest, coastal lagoons and coral reefs. n Viñales National Park & the Viñales Valley embrace dramatic 250-million-year-old loaf-shaped limestone mountains laced with caves. These karst formations have been worn away by hundreds of years of erosion, becoming small islands that are self-contained ecosystems. The trip visits Cuevo del Indio (Cave of the Indians), the largest system of underground caves in Latin America. n Las Terrazas is an ecotourism center in which a sustainable rural economy has been developed based on the use of local natural resources and a strong focus on public environmental education. Accommodations are always the best available and extend an understanding of culture and history through their locations. The Grand Hotel Trinidad transports guests to the elegance of 16th-century Cuba under Spanish influence, with gracious archways and wrought-iron balconies. The colonial-
Photos: Natural Habitat Adventures
CUBA IS THE LARGEST CARIBBEAN ISLAND, BETWEEN THE CARIBBEAN SEA AND THE NORTH ATLANTIC OCEAN. IT LIES SOUTH OF KEY WEST, FLORIDA, BETWEEN THE CAYMAN ISLANDS AND THE BAHAMAS.
style Hotel La Ermita offers magnificent views of the Viñales Valley, and in the heart of Havana the luxurious Parque Central is a mix of colonial and modern elements. Sunswept Playa Larga Beach on the southern coast along the Bay of Pigs is home to the Hotel Playa Larga, which offers basic accommodations with easy access to Zapata National Park. Participants meet in Miami for an orientation and an overnight at Sofitel Miami Hotel. A chartered flight the next day makes the short hop to Cienfuegos where the group is joined by its local Cuban guide. The program includes a myriad of planned yet unscripted people-to-people exchanges enhanced by an exclusive immersion into Cuba’s rarely visited natural world. Spend the first afternoon in Cienfuegos, which is recognized as an outstanding early example of urban planning in Latin America. At the Cienfuegos Botanical Garden, enjoy identifying tropical flora and fauna accompanied by botanist Roger Pazos. Driving on to Trinidad, there will be opportunities to meet the local people through music and the arts, including dining at the city’s best private restaurant
where guests chat with owner Lazaro Orellana who talks about operating a small private business in Cuba. There’s a visit to a community library where the director discusses how books are selected and the role of government censorship, a invitation to a traditional pig roast, and a visit to a late 18th-century plantation house, the Trinidadian residence of Julio and Rosa Munoz (Julio is a photographer, business owner and esteemed horse trainer).
On ensuing days the route moves west to the Zapata Peninsula where there will be ample opportunities to discover the rich endemic plant and bird life – look for the Fernandina’s flicker, one of the rarest woodpeckers in the world. Cruise down the Rio Hatiguanico hoping to sight rarely seen crocodiles. En route to Viñales, stop at Las Terrazas and sit down to lunch with restaurant owner Tito Ramos as he explains the business opportunities of private restaurants called paladares. Explore Viñales National Park accompanied by Emma Palacios Lemagne, who has worked in the park for 25+ years. She is the leading gastropoda biologist and conservationist in Cuba. Four full days in Cuba’s vibrant capital of Havana conclude the journey, with highlights including a traditional Cuban lunch at the Hotel Nacional, a stroll through Old Havana with a prominent architectural historian and an invitation to the National Theater to watch a dance class at the Danza Contemporánea de Cuba. For the complete itinerary see: www.nathab.com/central-america/ undiscovered-cuba/itinerary/ NOV. / DEC. 2014 73
MOTORING
Off Road
Luxury 2015 Jeep Grand Cherokee
J
eep® Grand Cherokee – the most awarded SUV ever and the vehicle that has long defined what a premium SUV should be – receives even more content for the 2015 model year. The Grand Cherokee Summit models receive added features as well as a new Summit California Edition appearance package that further enhances Summit’s premium exterior aesthetics. The 2015 Jeep Grand Cherokee completely redefines the premium SUV, delivering consumers an unprecedented driving range, a choice of leading powertrain options, available clean-diesel technology, legendary benchmark capability, world-class craftsmanship, premium on-road driving dynamics, and a host of advanced user-friendly technology and safety features. The Jeep Grand Cherokee Summit has established itself as one of the most luxurious five-seat SUVs on the market today. For the 2015 model year, the Jeep brand has added more premium features to the Summit model that buyers will appreciate. A new Grand Cherokee Summit Argentina Tan leather interior is now available in addition to Morocco Black and Grand Canyon Jeep Brown. Covering the seats, center console
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armrest, upper door panels and upper dashboard, the new hue is accented with black stitching that complements the black carpeting and dark open-pore wood trim. Other new interior features include illuminated “Summit” door sills and a new Berber carpet cargo mat. To further enhance the 2015 Jeep Grand Cherokee Summit’s luxury credentials, an acoustic laminated windshield and second-row side glass are now standard. Combined with a new Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) system, exterior road noise is further reduced within the cabin, taking the already awardwinning and quiet interior to a new level. Partnering with Harman Kardon to develop the system, ANC results in a 10 dB reduction in noise, enhancing music clarity due to the reduced ambient engine noise inside the cabin. This allows the Grand Cherokee Summit’s 825-watt, nineteen-speaker Harman Kardon audio system to be heard and appreciated better than ever before. When the 2014 Jeep Grand Cherokee made its debut, top-of-the-line Summit models received unique premium exterior features to set it apart from the rest of the Grand Cherokee lineup. For the 2015 model
year, customers can enhance Summit’s design to yet another level with the available Summit California Edition appearance package. This package features body-color lower body trim, mirror caps and door handles, Platinum Chrome accents on the grille, lower fascias and side sills, fog lamp bezels, rear step pad and
Photo Courtsey Chrysler Group LLC.
badging. Satin Carbon painted 20-inch aluminum wheels are also part of the package. Jeep Grand Cherokee delivers 30 miles per gallon (mpg) highway courtesy of an available 3.0-liter EcoDiesel V-6 engine and standard eight-speed transmission. The
3.0-liter EcoDiesel V-6 boasts an unmatched driving range of more than 730 miles. Legendary Jeep capability comes courtesy of three available 4x4 systems, Jeep’s Quadra-Lift air suspension system and class-leading Selec-Terrain traction management system. Grand Cherokee boasts best-in-class towing of 7,400 pounds, and a crawl ratio of 44.1:1. A refined exterior design – complete with available bi-xenon headlamps with signature LED daytime running lamps (DRL) – provides a premium appearance. Interior luxury is achieved with premium amenities,
including Natura leather, exotic open-pore wood trim and unique color offerings. The 2015 Jeep Grand Cherokee includes more than 70 safety and security features as well as an array of advanced user-friendly technology features, such as the award-winning Uconnect 8.4-inch touchscreen radio with integrated climate and infotainment controls, a 7-inch customer configurable multiview display cluster, Uconnect Access Via Mobile and cloud-based voice texting. Built in Detroit, the 2015 Jeep Grand Cherokee is available in Laredo, Limited, Overland, Summit and SRT models. NOV. / DEC. 2014 75
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