August 2011

Volume V Issue VIII August 2011

www.spiceroutemag.com

The inflight magazine of SpiceJet

AUGUST 2011 www.spicejet.com

FLIES HIGH WITH

BOMBARDIERÊQ400

AURANGABAD • BHOPAL • INDORE • MANGALORE • RAJAHMUNDRY • TIRUPATI • TRIVANDRUM • VIJAYAWADA

Volume V Issue VIII August 2011

www.spiceroutemag.com

The inflight magazine of SpiceJet

AUGUST 2011 www.spicejet.com

FLIES HIGH WITH

BOMBARDIERÊQ400

AURANGABAD • BHOPAL • INDORE • MANGALORE • RAJAHMUNDRY • TIRUPATI • TRIVANDRUM • VIJAYAWADA

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Welcome

Moving ahead

Kalanithi Maran Chairman

Dear SpiceJetters, As we take the deliveries of our new Bombardier Q400 Next-gen aircraft, it gives me immense pleasure to announce that we plan to add 8 more destinations soon. This will take our fast expanding network to 31 cities. With this we will be reaching 29 domestic destinations in a short span of six years. The cities that we will commence operations to are Bhopal, Mangalore, Trivandrum, Indore, Aurangabad, Rajahmundry, Tirupati, and Vijayawada.

With Hyderabad as the hub for our new Q400 aircraft, we plan to add new flights

and increase the frequencies between our destinations, thereby giving you better scope to travel both for business and leisure.

In this edition of our monthly in-flight magazine, Spiceroute, we bring you a glimpse of SpiceJet’s latest destinations and what you can do there. A photo essay on the different flavours of Independence Day will surely make us all feel proud. We bring you the story of India’s only male river – the majestic Brahmaputra. As the monsoons get heavy we bring you recipes of some mouth watering snack to keep you glued at home. Also read on more about ‘Dance therapy’ and how to

fool your friends with little magic tricks in our ‘Fairytale’ section.

Do get back to us with your suggestions/ feedback at custrelations@spicejet.com.

Kalanithi Maran Chairman

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Publisher & Managing Director Vikas Johari CEO Prakash Johari Editor Florina Soren Information info@maxposure.in Submissions editor@maxposure.in Advertising sales@maxposure.in Accounts accounts@maxposure.in Careers hr@maxposure.in E-mail: spiceroute@maxposure.in Registered Office|North|Delhi: Le Meridien Hotel, Old Business Centre, 2nd Floor, Windsor Place, New Delhi-110001, India Tel: 91.11.43011111 Fax: 91.11.23730511 MaXposure Corporate Media: M-108, Punj House, IInd Floor, Above Bank of Baroda, Connaught Place, New Delhi-110001, Ph: 011-47411100 West | Mumbai|T.V. Industrial Estate Basement, B-22, A.K.Ahire Marg, Worli, Mumbai - 400018 Tel: 91.22-61991111 Fax: 91.22.61991115 East | Kolkata|Delta House, 10th Floor, 4 Government Place North, Kolkata 700001, Tel: 91.9831342496 South | Bangaluru |1010 A Wing, 10th Floor, Mittal Towers, M.G. Road, Bangaluru-560001, Karnataka, India Tel: 91.80.40921037-38, Fax: 91.80.41510657 Hyderabad | Executive Business Club, Mount Banjara Apartment 1st floor, Road no 12, Banjara hills, Hyderabad-500034 Tel: 91.9246114397 Chennai| Canaan City, Unit No C5 No 570/2, Anna Salai,Second Floor, Teynampet, Chennai-600018, Tel: 91.44.45918855, Mobile: 91.8122757180 Fax: 91.44.45918810

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HOT & HAPPENING August happenings across SpiceJet network

NEWS BYTES

58 SACRED TRAIL Experience spirituality at Gaumukh

COVER STORY

66 GOVINDA ALA RE Celebrate Krishna Janmashtami at Vrindavan

SPICE SPECIAL

70 JOURNEY OF A RIVER Life along Brahmaputra

TRAVEL BUZZ Latest in travel sector SPICEJET INTRODUCES BOMBARDIER Q400 SPREADING WINGS Eight new destinations to be added soon

FAST TRACK 42

SPICE HALT

52 OLD WORLD CHARM Take a ride on toy train at Ooty

48 HOURS IN DELHI Flavours of the bygone era

SPICE TRAVEL

Sales Representative Offices Ahmedabad | A/18 Radhaswamy Raw House, Near Chanakyapuri, Ghatlodia, Ahemedabad-61, Tel: 91.9898002522 Kerala | Synergy Media Solutions, Kuttikat, Iyyattil Junction, Chittoor Road Kochi - 682011 Tel: 0484-4032116, Mobile: 91.9747014191 International Advertising: INK London | Kevin Rolfe | 141-143 Shoreditch High Street, London E1 6JE, UK, Tel: +44.20.76138777, Fax: +44.207.613.8776 Singapore | Gerry Ricketts | 89 Neil Road, ≠03-01, Singapore 088849 Tel: +65.63242386, Fax: +65.64915261 Atlanta | Stephen Andrews | Capital Building, 255 East Paces Ferry Road, Suite 400 Atlanta, USA GA 30305 Tel: +1.678.5538080, Fax: +1.678.5538099 New York: 68 Jay Street, Suite 315, Brooklyn, NY 11201, USA Tel: +1 347 294 1220, Fax: +1.917.591.6247

For Advertising |91.9810476996

SPICE OPTION

78 MONSOON BURST Enjoy splashing rains this month

SPICE TRAIL 92 EXOTIC TEMPERING Flavour your desserts with mace

SPICEROUTE MAGAZINE. PRINTED AND PUBLISHED BY VIKAS JOHARI ON BEHALF OF MAXPOSURE MEDIA GROUP (INDIA) PVT. LTD.(MMGIPL) FOR SPICEJET LTD. AND PUBLISHED AT MMGIPL, LE MERIDIEN HOTEL, OLD BUSINESS CENTRE, 2ND FLOOR, WINDSOR PLACE, NEW DELHI-110001, INDIA. SPICEROUTE MAGAZINE IS PUBLISHED MONTHLY. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. THE WRITING, ARTWORK AND/OR PHOTOGRAPHY CONTAINED HEREIN MAY NOT BE USED OR REPRODUCED WITHOUT THE EXPRESS WRITTEN PERMISSION OF MMGIPL. MMGIPL DOES NOT ASSUME RESPONSIBILITY FOR LOSS OR DAMAGE OF UNSOLICITED PRODUCTS, MANUSCRIPTS, PHOTOGRAPHS, ARTWORK, TRANSPARENCIES OR OTHER MATERIALS. THE VIEWS EXPRESSED IN THE MAGAZINE ARE NOT NECESSARILY THOSE OF THE PUBLISHER OR SPICEJET. ALL EFFORTS HAVE BEEN MADE WHILE COMPILING THE CONTENT OF THIS MAGAZINE, BUT WE ASSUME NO RESPONSIBILITY FOR THE EFFECTS ARISING THERE FROM. MMGIPL DOES NOT ASSUME ANY LIABILITY FOR SERVICES OR PRODUCTS ADVERTISED HEREIN. FOR INQUIRIES | MMGIPL TEL: +91.11.43011111, FAX: +91.11.23730511. WWW.SPICEJET.COM, WWW. MAXPOSURE.IN

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Contents 98

104

SPICE PLATTER

SWEET INDULGENCE Relish exotic varieties of ice-creams MONSOON MUNCHES Savour bhajiyas on a rainy day

SPICE TALK 110

NEW KID ON THE BLOCK Child artist of the film I am Kalam

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POWER DIVA In conversation with Sushmita Sen

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WELLNESS

DANCE AWAY THOSE BLUES De-stress with dance therapy

SPICE FEATURE 134

CARVING CANVAS Crafting wonders with wood

KARMA 142

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SHARING THOUGHTS Innovating new ideas

BITS AND BYTES GADGET

LAZE AND LOUNGE 150 152 154

FILMS BOOKS MUSIC

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Contents

FAIRYTALE

156 SAY ABRACADABRA! Learn interesting magic tricks

KIDSZONE

162 COMICS 164 GAMES

PHOTO FEATURE

168 COLOURS OF INDEPENDENCE Celebrating nation’s Independence Day

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SPICEJET DESTINATIONS

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SPICEJET ROUTE MAP

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FLEET GUIDE

198

SPICEJET SCHEDULE

205

SPICEJET OFFICES

206

SPICE BITES

SPICE FORTUNE

174 TAROT READINGS Predictions for August

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Spice Mail

Letters from the

SpiceJet family Professional Staff I am a frequent flyer and have been regularly flying with SpiceJet. I would like to congratulate you for providing fantastic in-flight as well as ground service. The ground staff is really helpful and professional.

Muzamil Srinagar

Great service Because of the commendable service provided by the crew and ground staff, I select SpiceJet over other airlines. The overall flying experience is exemplary.

Vargese MT Agartala

Timely take-off

I am happy with the services provided by SpiceJet. The flights always take off on time and the ground staff is always accommodative and polite. Keep up the good work.

RM Lyngdoh Agartala

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HOT DATES August 2011 happenings across SpiceJet network

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September Onam is celebrated with great enthusiasm all across Kerala. Falling on the Malayalam month of Chingam every year, the ten-day festival gives a carnival like environment to the state. Being a harvest festival, a number of rituals are performed during the days of Onam. Rituals like Maveli Puja, Onathallu, Onakazhcha are followed in many parts of the state. This year, Onam will be celebrated on September 1.

October Diwali is one of the major Hindu festivals, celebrated all across the country.

Also known as Deepawali, the festival is celebrated to commemorate the victory of good over the evil. To celebrate the spirit of the festival, people exchange gifts, light innumerable lamps at their homes and burn crackers. Be a part of the festival on October 26.

November Guru Nanak Jayanti celebrates the birth anniversary of Guru Nanak Dev, the first Sikh guru and the founder of the Sikh religion. To celebrate the festival, people visit Gurdwaras where special programs are arranged and kirtans (religious songs) are sung. The festival will be celebrated on November 10.

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News Bytes

Travel Buzz Google to offer street view soon

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lobal Internet search engine Google announced plans to offer street view of Indian cities on its maps platform. “We are launching the street view project from Bangalore as it is the IT capital of India, where IT-savvy users will be able to leverage the benefits of the facility optimally,” Google India product head Vinay Goel said.

“Inspired by the success of the project in other cities, we will collect images of Bangalore streets by driving across the city in cars and three-wheelers that will have high resolution cameras mounted atop,” Goel said. To be made available on www.google.co.in/streetview in the coming months, the nobel feature will enable users to virtually explore and navigate a neighbourhood through a panoramic view of its streets on their desktops or mobile handsets. Street view will also provide specific information on shops, offices, restaurants, hotels, etc.

JW Marriott opens in Jaipur and Chandigarh

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aving created a landmark of its JW Marriott brand at Juhu in Mumbai, Marriott International, now repeats the extraordinary achievement in the beautiful cities of Chandigarh and Jaipur. Designers Wilson Associates from Singapore and Karen Kim collaborate to create a masterpiece which is both contemporary yet bearing signs of aesthetic North Indian architecture. With the launch of the Chandigarh property, JW Marriott opens its first hotel in the North India. This luxury 5-star hotel is located conveniently in the well designed city of Chandigarh. With this launch, hotel will be city’s first luxury address. Speaking at this significant occasion, Rajeev Menon, Area Vice-President India, Australia, Malaysia and Maldives, Marriott International Inc, said “The opening of a JW Marriott Hotel in Chandigarh is a great milestone for us as Chandigarh is the bestplanned city in India with architecture which is world renowned and a quality of life, which is unparalleled. As the capital of the states of Punjab and Haryana and the Union Territory, Chandigarh is an extremely prestigious city. We are extremely honoured to be presenting the pride of our luxury portfolio – JW Marriott – to the discerning guests of Chandigarh.” The Jaipur property however is the second addition to the west India, after Mumbai.

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News Bytes

Istanbul- rising high on MICE tourism

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Istanbul shot up 10 places in the International Congress and Convention Association (ICCA) rankings from 17th in 2009 to 7th in 2010.With this, meetings, incentives, conferences and exhibitions (MICE) tourism seems to be doing booming business in Istanbul. Hosting 109 international conventions in 2010, Istanbul made its way into the world’s Top 10 Congress Destinations according to data recently released by the ICCA. Istanbul remarkably has as many as seven convention centres and three enormous exhibition centres. With over 70,000 total guestrooms and 74 fivestar and deluxe hotels, Istanbul offers three separate but integratable meeting and exhibition clusters in the Airport District, the Conference Valley and the Golden Horn. Another factor that brings meetings here is its easy accessibility from anywhere in the world.

Melbourne Film Festival

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ll roads are leading to Melbourne for the 60th Melbourne Film Festival being held between July 21 to August 7. In addition to the glitz and glamour of the 60th MIFF Opening Night, the evening spelt magic with the presence of special guest filmmakers Fiona Gordon and Dominique Abel.

The Fairy, which also opened the 2011 Cannes Directors’ Fortnight, is a light, charming vaudeville-style romp the recalls the physical comedies of Charlie Chaplin and Jacques Tati.

The Belgium-based masters of the absurd are sure to create slapstick mayhem on the red carpet and delight audiences on the big screen.

This year’s MIFF features a plethora ofTalking Pictures events, including three special In Conversation sessions.

Amanresort in Turkey

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Amanresorts is soon to launch its 24th property, Amanruya, in a quiet valley on the Bodrum Peninsula overlooking the Aegean Sea in Turkey. This fabled coastline is where Homer’s heroes were born, where the ancient Greeks consulted their oracles and the Romans built magnificent temples to honour their gods. Surrounded by pine forest and olive groves, Amanruya is set on a peaceful hillside, offering breathtaking views of the sea and a winding pathway leading to a protected pebble beach. Inspired by the region’s traditional architecture, Amanruya ascends through a series of elevated levels. Courtyards and terraces create the intimate and organic ambience of a village, while still providing a sense of space and luxury, and local materials including stone, acajau wood and Turkish marble form a timeless natural palette.

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Cape Town listed as top tourist destination

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he picturesque capital of South Africa, Cape Town has been pegged as the top tourist destination in the world at the 2011 Travelers’ Choice Destinations awards. Cape Town outdid Sydney, Machu Picchu, Paris, Rio de Janeiro, New York, Rome, London, Barcelona and Hong Kong to win the top spot.

Meanwhile, South Africa Tourism is trying hard to woo the Indian traveller in a big way. It has introduced several packages to suit tourist with its wide choice of destinations.

The packages include 9, 10 and 12 day itineraries to the rainbow nation inclusive of 4 star accommodations, return air fare and entrance fees for game reserves. Wildlife safari, though is the main attraction in South Africa, places with Johannesburg and Sun City form part of the itinerary.

Taj Hotels amongst top ten in Asia

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our Taj Hotels have been ranked among the top ten hotels in Asia in the World’s Best Awards 2011 Reader’s Poll conducted by an international magazine. Taj Lake Palace Udaipur and Rambagh Palace Jaipur have both been ranked at number 6, while Taj Mahal Palace, Mumbai and Umaid Bhavan Palace, Jodhpur have been ranked at number 9 and 10 respectively. Additionally, Taj Mahal Hotel, New Delhi has entered the reckoning for the first time in the Reader’s Survey, straight at number 12, reinforcing Taj Hotels as one of finest hospitality chains across the Asian continent and the world. Commenting on the recognition, Ajoy Misra, Sr VP, Sales and Marketing, Taj Hotels Resorts & Palaces, “We are honoured that the readers have yet again recognised our hotels. This acknowledges the efforts of all our employees who work passionately to strive for guest delight.”

Night Safari celebrates birth of clouded leopards

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ight Safari, the wildlife park for nocturnal animals, recently celebrated the first birth of its clouded leopards, an endangered wild cat. The arrival of the pair of cubs is a major achievement for Night Safari as clouded leopards are notoriously difficult to breed. Named for the cloud-like spots on its coat, the clouded leopard is a medium-sized wild cat found primarily in lowland tropical rainforest habitats throughout Southeast Asia, Nepal and southern China.

The parents of the new arrivals, father Tawan and mother Wandee, arrived from Thailand’s Khao Kheow Open Zoo two years ago. Since then, keepers at the Night Safari have been hoping to kick start a breeding programme between the two and has been waiting for them to reach breeding age.

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News Bytes

Adventure and fun at Aamod

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njoy a fun filled adventurous vacation as Aamod Shoghi offers ‘Adventure n Fun’ package that would give you an adrenaline rush. Try your hand, along with your family on a bunch of adventure sports at Aamod Shoghi.

The resort has an adventure zone where you can try your hand at Burma Bridge, Flying Fox, Monkey Crawl and a host of other high-adrenaline activities. In addition there is a rock climbing and rappelling site which one may explore. The activities are supported by a robust team of adventure experts who have more than 15 years of experience. Just to add a hint of fun, there’s an option for night treks, with a guide of course. Also, there are numerous other short treks in and around Shoghi.

Rajasthan celebrates Sawan Teej

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eej is one of the popular and widely celebrated festivals of Rajasthan. During the Sawan Teej festival, which will be celebrated on August 2 and 3, swings are hung from trees and decorated with fragrant flowers.

The festival is dedicated to Lord Shiva and his consort Parvati. The colourful and vibrant celebration of this festival calls on scores of tourists to this place from across the globe.

Teej festival is primarily meant for the married women.During this festival married women and young girls worship goddess Parvati in order to gain virtue, devotion and fertility. Women perform traditional folk dance dressed in green coloured clothes and sing beautiful Teej songs while enjoying their sway on swings bedecked with flowers.

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Spain San Fermin R ace

In 1492, Columbus sailed the ocean blue -and it became a nation, too.

Flamenco Dance

Iberia's sunny weather, fertile soil, and Mediterranean ports have long made it a popular place.

Any guesses??? Here it is ‌ Introducing you to one of the most diversified nation with Stretched untamed beaches, Youthful Festivals,Proud Cathedrals, glitters of the dancing Flamenco swirling in colors, the gigantic green mountains draped around, here stands SPAIN, vast and unexplored.

Start a fairy tale journey where you enjoy the comfort and yet enjoy an un spoilt solitude with nature. The lovely serene country of Spain is famously synonymous for its bullfights, flamenco dancers and lively beaches. Spain is diverse and that is exactly where its true beauty lies. It has got the north that can be likened with the undulating green hills of Ireland, whereas the south gives out a tang of Morocco in its topography and architecture. Be it language, culture, cuisine or the art, it is the element of diversity present in all of these that truly entice a person and will not disappoint your expectations.

So Come , join and celebrate the Festivities of Spain with

™

!!!

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Dimsum delight

Women enjoy business travel more than men

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ocated in the heart of Gurgaon at Ambience Mall, the Chinese fine dining restaurant Dimsumbros is a concept that charmingly brings together the solitary dimsum dining experience. Intelligently suited for corporates and families, the restaurant has an array of some delicious dimsums for you to savour. The most versatile dimsum menu offers around 37 varieties of steamed, baked, fried and pan fried dimsums. Some of the restaurant’s signature dishes include Almond Prawns with Wasabi Mayo, Playboy dimsum and Caviar dimsums. Relish these with a range of special cocktail and mocktail infusions like the rose vodka, lemon grass vodka, cucumber vodka and many more.

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f you thought men were the fast moving gender - you are sadly mistaken. According to a recent survey administered across a cross-section of over 2500 travellers working in government and private sector, it is proven that an astounding 90% of respondents enjoy travelling for work.

Interestingly, 94% of the women prefer workrelated travel as compared to 87% men. Also young India (22-25 years) shows a 100% positive response on travelling for work.

A surprising addition to this trend is that 84% women believe technology has reduced their work travel needs compared to only 63% men (considered traditionally to be more tech savvy than women).Companies seem to be conservative on travel assignments this year with over 65% respondents say that their business travel has not increased or increased only marginally from 2010.

‘Break from routine office day’ and ‘seeing new places on company money’ seemed to be the most exciting perks of business travel with over 55% respondents citing both or one as their no. 1 perk. For over 20% respondents collecting hotel award points and frequent flyer miles were a great travel perk.

Courtesy: Trip Advisor

Carlson in Kandla, Gujarat

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arlson, a global hospitality and travel company, recently announced the signing of its 42nd Radisson hotel in India, the 117-room Radisson Hotel Kandla. This is Carlson’s fourth hotel in Gujarat. The hotel is scheduled to open in the first half of 2012. The Radisson Hotel Kandla is close to Kandla port, a major maritime hub in Gandhidham city. It is an important trade center for India, particularly with the salt industry in Gandhidham accounting for 40% of the country’s salt production. The region has been witnessing business growth and a steady influx of corporate travelers. The Gandhidham region has a rich history and several nearby attractions such as the Rao Pragmalji palace, Sharad Baug palace and the Kutch museum.

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Compiled by NITIKA BAJPAYEE

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Cover Story

SpiceJet adds

Q400 to its fleet

After going international a year ago, SpiceJet is adding another feather to its cap by being the first Indian airline to acquire Bombardier Q400, the best turboprop in the market

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he Indian aviation industry is fast evolving. And keeping pace with today’s requirement SpiceJet is all set to increase connectivity in the domestic short haul sector. The airline has recently acquired 15 Bombardier Q400s to fly to these destinations in Tier II and Tier III cities. With a capacity of 78, these aircraft are known for their fuel efficiency and comfort.

These new turboprop airliners are the next step in the continuing evolution of Indian aviation.

The Q400 aircraft is the most technologically advanced turboprop airliner.

With nearly twice horsepower of conventional turboprops, the 5071shp PW 150A is the most advanced turboprop engine available today.

With full authority digital electronic control, centralized diagnostic and low fuel consumption

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SPECIFICATIONS BOMBARDIER Q400 Engines: Two Pratt and Whitney Canada Corp. PW150A Normal Takeoff Power: 4,580 shp Max.Power: 5,071 shp Max. Cruise Power: 3,947 shp Maximum takeoff weight: 29,257 kg Maximum landing weight: 28,009 kg Maximum payload: 8,670 kg Propellers: Dowty model R408 six-bladed, reversible pitch; composite Diameter: 13 ft 6 in / 4.11 m External Dimensions: Length overall: l 32.84 m, Wingspan: 28.42 m Height overall: 8.34 m Performance Range: Maximum range: 2,522 km (1,362 NM) (70 pax @ 200 lb) MCR, ISA, SL

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and emissions, the engines allows the Q400 NextGen aircraft to significantly lower operating and maintenance cost.

Launched in 2008, Bombardier’s fast Q400 NextGen turboprop airliner is the most recent development in the evolution of the Q400 aircraft, and the advanced successor to the Dash 8/Q-Series family of aircraft. The Q400 NextGen aircraft’s quiet performance, fuel efficiency and lower emissions help in positioning it as a ‘comfortably greener’ solution for airlines worldwide.

The Q400 NextGen aircraft features an enhanced cabin environment with the introduction of LED lighting, new

ceiling panels, dished window sidewalls and larger overhead luggage bins. These features, combined with the Active Noise and Vibration Suppression (ANVS) system, provide an excellent cabin experience for every passenger.

The already spacious interior of the Q400 NextGen aircraft has been further enhanced with the introduction of larger overhead bins that will accommodate standard roller bags.

SpiceJet will use these aircraft in its soon-tobe started domestic sector. The aircraft will fly to many Tier-II and Tier-III cities where bigger planes are not allowed. With this fleet of Bombardier Q400 aircraft reaching smaller towns will soon be a pleasant experience with SpiceJet. The airline welcomes all its passengers for a great flying experience.

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Spice Special

Spreading SpiceJet is set to spread its reach to eight more cities within the country. Each city with its rich heritage makes for a great visit for one and all‌

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wings

FLORINA SOREN

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piceJet is fast expanding its network and touching new boundaries. This most preferred airline will soon fly to eight new destinations across five states - in Andhra Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Karnataka and Kerala. With Bhopal and Indore, SpiceJet is making forays into Madhya Pradesh for the first time. Spiceroute brings you a glimpse of what these destinations have in store for you.

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Cover Special Spice Story

Tirupati: God’s abode

Not-to-miss: Pay a holy visit to Lord Venkateswara; visit the historic Chandragiri Fort; trekking at Mamanduru.

Located close to Hyderabad at a distance of 525km, Tirupati is surrounded by seven hills, cascading waterfalls, thick evergreen forests and offers superb view of the valley. Though many tourists flock here to pay obeisance at the world famous Tirupati temple, the city has much more to offer. It is believed that more than fifty thousand pilgrims visit the Sri Venkateswara Temple every day. There are special timings for Darshan, so gather all information before you plan your visit here. Situated amidst lush green hills, Tirupati offers plenty of options for a quick getaway. Horsley Hills, close to Tirupati (150 km) is a scenic hill-station which is visited by tourists from across the country. The Sri Venkateswara Zoological Park and wildlife sanctuary nearby is another attraction for both children and adults.

Not-to-miss:

Aururangabad: Modern city

Close to Aurangabad is the Gautala Wildlife Reserve with many wild species; shop for the famous Paithani saree ; Soneri Mahal, an old monument now converted into a museum

Home to the world famous Ajanta & Ellora caves, Aurangabad gets a lot of international as well as domestic tourists throughout the year. Founded

by Emperor Aurangzeb in 1610, the city is a fine example of India’s rich culture as well as modern development. Lying along the right bank of river Kham, Aurangabad is also the district headquarters and hence an important city by all means. The Chhatrapati Shivaji Museum and Sunheri Mahal are some of the must visit places besides the Ajanta & Ellora caves in Aurangabad.

For those who would love to spend some time in the green environs, the Bani Begum Gardens is the place to be.

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Rajahmundry: Industrial hub

Not-to-miss:

Set amidst green paddy fields, tall coconut tree and winding roads, Rajamundry assures a refreshing change to anyone who visits this place.

Earlier known as Raja Mahendri, the place boasts of Asia’s largest rail-cum-road-bridge, across the Godavari river besides many other attractions.

This bridge built a quarter of a century ago connects the East Godavari district with the West Godavari district. Enjoying a cruise at the Godavari can be an ideal way to savour the beauty of this place.

The Papi hills nearby adds to the mesmerizing view here and is drawing tourists to this quaint city of Rajahmundry. It is the most promising industrial hub. ITC, ONGC, GVK,GMR are few of the companies who have a set up here.

Pattiseema, filmmakers paradise; Kotilingalarevu - is a famous Shiva Temple; visit Kadiyam nurseries, where you can find some of the most exotic varieties of flowers.

Not-to-miss:

Vijayawada: Place of victory

Take a leisurely walk along the imposing Prakasam Barrage; Victoria Jubilee Museum; Mogalarajapuram caves, believed to be as old as the 5th century.

The third largest city in Andhra Pradesh, Vijayawada is surrounded by the scenic Indrakiladri Hills on the west and the Budameru river on the north. The name Vijayawada means ‘place of victory’ and according to legends it was here that Lord Shiva appeared before Arjuna and gave him the prized weapon ‘Pasupathasthra’.

Also Goddess Durga is believed to have rested here after slaying the demon Mahishasura in a fierce battle. What many would not be aware of is that some of the best mangoes in the market come from Vijayawada. The places nearby are known for its art and handicraft like the very popular light weight toys produced at the Kondapalli village.

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Bhopal: City with lakes

Not-to-miss:

Visit to the Bharat Bhavan – a centre for performing and visual arts; Indira Gandhi Rashtriya Manav Sangrahalaya; Van Vihar, a safari park housing wide varities of animal species.

The capital city of Madhya Pradesh is as rich in history and culture as the state itself. However, what will strike you about this city is the fine amalgamation of the old and the new. With development taking quick steps here, modern amenities have joined hands with the old city’s history and heritage. The Upper lake and the Lower lake form the centre of attraction and the city as well. The Upper lake has many facilities like boating and water sports for tourists and can be an ideal place to spend an evening. However, one should not leave Bhopal before taking a round of the Chowk, at the centre of the city.

The narrow alleys here are filled with small shops stocked with traditional treasures. From exquisite silver jewellery, bangles, embroidered goods and traditional crafts, you will find them all in these lanes.

Not-to-miss:

Indore: New beginning

Day tripping to Jhabua for a date with the tribals; Omkareshwar and Maheshwar near Indore are a must visit; pay obeisance to the ‘bada ganapati’ built in 1875.

The city reflects the modern developed side of Madhya Pradesh. Its close proximity to India’s financial capital – Mumbai, has definitely lead Indore into a more progressive path. Indore is also the largest city of Madhya Pradesh. The city of Indore along with the satellite towns of Pithampur and Dewas form an economically progressive region. It is here that you find the maximum numbers of educational institutes and centres of learning. Chhatris are one of the major attractions of Indore. These cenotaphs erected as tribute to the Holkar rulers and their family members are standing testimony to the great Maratha architecture. The Lal Bagh Palace is another attraction here. The construction of this grand monument began during the reign of Tukoji Rao Holkar II and went on in three phases.

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Mangalore: Coastal cure

Not-to-miss:

Someshwar temple; Idgah mosque at the Lighthouse hill is believed to be constructed by Tipu Sultan; Shreemanthi Bai Memorial Government Museum with many archaeology, ethnology, porcelain and wooden treasures.

Nestled in the Western coast of India, Mangalore is a popular halt for people travelling from Goa to Kerala and vice versa. This port city is a commercial hub of Karnataka from where coffee and spices are exported to across the world. This place also has a lot of history and was once a major ship building centre. Today, Mangalore stands out as a quaint destination with old churches, temples, quaint houses and lots of coconut trees. Just driving through Mangalore is sure to leave you rejuvenated.

Mangalore is a hot destination for nature lovers and the Pilikula Nisagardhama, situated nearby is a popular destination for many. A sprawling 300acre park, it draws people with its wildlife safari, boating facilities and a mini aquarium.The pristine beaches here are another major attraction and people spend their entire day walking by the sea.

Not-to-miss:

Trivandrum: Green heaven

Sanghumukham Beach; Napier museum; Neyyar wild life sanctuary for a taste of Kerala’s wildlife;visit to the Sree Padmanabha Swamy temple; Varkala beach – which is still unexplored.

Also known as Tiruvananthapuram, this is the capital city of Kerala. With the Arabian city on one side and the green mainland on the other, Trivandrum offers a slice of Kerala in all its beauty.

The city besides showcasing the mesmerizing beauty of ‘God’s own country’ also has the most modern buildings and establishments. Apart from these the city has the most famous Kovalam beach with the landmark light house. Water sport is a major attraction for all those visiting Trivandrum. The catamaran ride here is very popular along with other activities. A trip down the backwaters would perhaps be the best way to see rural Kerala in all its subtle beauty. A ride along the palm fringed waterways with local life passing by can be a memorable experience.

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Fast Track

hours in

Delhi

NITIKA BAJPAYEE

There is more to Delhi than just being the National Capital.

Explore this city of many colours and flavours with us‌

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nce the seat of power of the British during their reign in the country, the city of Delhi is known by many names. Delhiites lovingly call it Dilli, while authors like William Dalrymple calls it the ‘City of Djinns’. Delhi finds its mention in the volumes of books and journals, a host of authors, scholars and writers have written extensively on the city, which is today the seat of power of the nation. I am a Delhiite, but still I discover a new facet of my city every time I venture into its congested crannies and swanky lanes.

Day 1

Flower Market, BKS Marg While in Delhi, start your day early in the morning and fresh air and wide traffic less roads will greet you. Watching colourful flowers will give a bright start to your day.

Visit the flower market on the Baba Kharak Singh Road, adjacent to the Hanuman Temple near Connaught Place. The biggest wholesale flower market in the country, the place attracts a host of flower vendors involved in buying

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Fast Track

Clockwise from top right: Colourful jooties at Janpath; Gurudwara Bangla Sahib; Jantar Mantar in the heart of Delhi

Holy water from the sarovar at Bangla Sahib Gurudwara is believed to cure ailments 44 August 2011

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and selling a myriad variety of flowers and ferns.

The market gives you a chance to witness the morning calm of the city along with the hustle bustle of a true Indian market. The flower market operates from 4 am to 9 am in the morning every day.

Gurudwara Bangla Sahib After your tryst with flowers, take a walk down the road to reach Gurudwara Bangla Sahib.

As you walk, you will come across the pristine white faรงade of the Gurudwara, a place of great

religious and historical importance. Dedicated to the eighth Sikh guru, Sri Harkishen Sahib, the striking golden dome of the sculpted bronze cupola of the Gurudwara will greet you. The cool marble flooring, where devotees sit and pray in unity, the shimmering waters of the holy pond called as sarovar add to the whole setting. Inside the shrine, sounds of devotional music reverberate and people sing and pray in harmony. Sit for sometime and the devotional music will soothe your soul and you will be bestowed with the mouth watering Kadha Parshad. Holy water or the amrit from the sarovar in the Gurudwara is said to have miraculous powers of curing the sick. The Gurudwara is also home to a higher secondary school, a library and a dispensary. Baba Baghel Singh Museum is a must watch. After you have had darshan, indulge in the delicious langar that serves free food to the devotees, without any distinction of caste, creed or status.

Jantar Mantar Walking in Delhi has always been my favourite pastime. The timeless beauty of the city attracts tourists and wayfarers to this city where you can witness the remnants from the past. Jantar Mantar, situated on the Parliament Street, is one fine example of architecture and an amazing sight. Take a walk from the Gurudwara Bangla Sahib on the Ashoka Road to reach Parliament

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Fast Track

Constructed in 1724, the bright coloured Jantar Mantar was buit by Maharaja Jai Singh of Jaipur Street. The bright sandstone façade of the Jantar Mantar will welcome you into its territory.

Constructed in 1724, this astronomical observatory system was built by Maharaja Jai Singh of Jaipur. The observatory instruments here will fascinate you enough for their ingenuity. Situated amidst the concrete jungle of Central Delhi, the observations today may not be accurate since tall buildings engulf the region.

But the place is perfect for some photography.

The historical monument is open all days of the week. For a visit, you will have to shell out ` 5 per head and photography charges are ` 25 for video recordings.

Shopping at Janpath Close to Jantar Mantar lies Janpath, the famous shopping street of Delhi. Displaying metal trinkets, colourful dresses, party apparel, Janpath is regarded as the shopping paradise for ladies and college goers. The street market is perfect for buying latest fashion apparel at cheap rates.

The numerous stalls and swanky shops display a great range of shoes, dresses and accessories, perfumes, books and souvenirs. The market attracts a large number of foreign tourists who want to indulge in cheap shopping and take home Indian souvenirs. As you shop in Janpath, don’t forget to bargain and you will get value for money. Stop at D’Pauls and grab a sandwich along with their famous cold coffee for a quick and delicious breakfast.

Agrasen ki Baoli

Top right: Colourful display of lamps at Dilli Haat; Above: A historical monument at the sprawling Lodhi Gardens 46 August 2011

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After shopping to your heart’s content, head towards Kasturba Gandhi Marg. Here you will come across some of Delhi’s iconic buildings like the Amba Deep Building, the Hindustan Times House and the British Council. In the heart of Delhi’s bustle on the Hailey Road near

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Fast Track

Above: Garden of Five Senses; Right: Cultural performance at India Habitat Centre

KG Marg lies a slice of yesterday. Agrasen ki Baoli is a 60 metre long, 15 metre wide step well with red stone walls punctuated by tiny jharokhas. Originally built during the days of the Mahabharata by Maharaja Agrasen and renovated in the 14th century, the baoli has 103 steps, all of which were once immersed with water. Today, it stands dry, a protected monument. For tourists and wayfarers who stop here and linger along, it is a quaint throwback, a remnant of the past.

Red Fort Take an auto from the Barakhamba Road to Red Fort. We celebrate our Independence Day this month. And there is no way you can miss out on the Red Fort, the prime venue for the Independence Day celebrations. The red sandstone walls of the massive Lal Quila or the Red Fort are a clear reminder of the magnificent power of the Mughal Empire. Built in the 17th century by Mughal emperor Shah Jahan, the grand fort was designed to keep out from the reach of invaders. Once the capital of the Mughal Empire, Red Fort was designated as the UNESCO World Heritage Site in the year 2007. Today, the iconic monument of Delhi stands tall in the heart of walled city and attracts 48 August 2011

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major crowd, especially for the Independence Day celebrations. Check out the sound and light show in the evening, which recreates nation’s glorious past.

Enjoy chaats at Bengali Market Bengali Market is the place if you want to have a taste of world famous Dilli-ki-chaat. The market bustles with people who come here to indulge in high on calorie street food and chaat varieties. Gorge on tangy golgappas, crisp aloo tikkis and oily chole bature at Bengali Sweets or Nathu’s.

Day 2

Bengali Market is the best place if you want to have a taste of world famous Dilli-ki-chaat fountains, stoned elephants and water steams.

Next to Garden of Five senses lies the Mehrauli Archeological Park, which is spread across 100 acres of forest reserve land. Lying adjacent to Qutub Minar, the well-conserved park is home to some fine examples of architecture like the carved tombs, baolis and mosque arches.

Garden of Five Senses Twenty acres of sprawling lush garden area, the Garden of Five Senses is situated close to Mehrauli heritage zone. The park is a great place to relax and unwind. The park plays host to a variety of activities that invite public interaction and exploration. Located at Said-ulajaib village, the park displays soaring stainless steel birds mounted on slate-clad pillars, an expansive plaza, spiral walkway, series of

Brunch at Dilli Haat Savour the unlimited flavours of the delightful local cuisine from different Indian states at Dilli Haat. You can stop here and indulge in two activities: food and shopping. Pick some souvenirs and gifts for friends and family. You will get a great variety here with rural craftsmen exhibiting a range of textiles, footwear, toys,

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Fast Track

Nizamuddin Dargah Just across the road outside the Humayun’s Tomb, a crowded lane will take you to the mecca in Delhi - the Nizamuddin Dargah. The Dargah is a mausoleum of one of the world’s most famous Sufi saints, Hazrat Nizamuddin Auliya, the shrine is thronged by thousands of devotees every day. Tomb of legendary poet Mirza Ghalib is located close to the Dargah.

Take a walk around the shrine and if you have a wish, tie a thread here. Every Thursday evening, Sufi singers from across the city assemble here and sing soulful qawwalis.

Culture programs at Habitat Centre India Habitat is the culture zone of Delhi.

The beautiful complex is a fine example of architecture and technique. Art enthusiasts, college goers and photographers love the quite alleys of Habitat Centre. You can see the art exhibitions at the Open Palm Court and Visual Arts Gallery, film screenings and dance performances at the Stein Auditorium, and amateur theatre productions at the lovely Amphitheatre here.

Dinner at Lodi, the garden restaurant Lodi, the Garden restaurant is a mix of earthy and organic sensibilities. Highlighted by its lush botanical surroundings, pebbled walkways and bamboo railings, the restaurant is an extension of Lodhi Gardens itself. The garden area has a variety of trees including the Jamun and Peepal tree, some more than 100-years-old.

Clockwise from top: Humayun’s Tomb; Nizamuddin Dargah; Iconic image of Delhi - India Gate

pottery, and artefacts, against a mela-like backdrop. Do not miss on tender momos from Sikkim and refreshing kehwa from Jammu and Kashmir.

Humayun’s Tomb Take an auto rickshaw from Dilli Haat and head towards Humayun’s Tomb. Shimmering in the bright day right, the red sandstone building is a great sample of Mughal architecture. The 50 August 2011

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UNESCO’s World Heritage Site, Humayun’s Tomb is a magnificent monument built by Hamida Banu Begum, emperor Humayun’s widow. Completed in 1565, the red and white building was designed by a Persian architect.

This memorial became an inspiration for later Mughal structures, notably the Taj Mahal.

The historical monument has been one of the favourites of the photographers. The most notable features of the complex are the centrally located garden squares – charbagh.

Lawns of India Gate You must not leave Delhi without visiting India Gate. Dotted with sprawling lush gardens, India Gate is one of the most visited picnic spot in Delhi. Apart from the lawns, India Gate is home to huge ponds, where boating is organised.

Treat yourself with ice cream, there are numerous ice-cream vendors standing in a row amidst the greens of India Gate.

SpiceJet flies to Delhi from many cities across the network. See schedule, page 198.

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Old world charm

NITIKA BAJPAYEE

Attracting swarms of people every year, Ooty is known for the toy train, lush forests, gushing waterfalls and that old world charm‌

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“

lanning a vacation? You must come to Bangalore, and we will go to – Ooty, the favourite getaway for all Bangaloreans,” my sister-inlaw told me over the phone. I of course had heard about Ooty, but never got a chance to venture into its periphery.

After discussing the plan with my husband, I booked my tickets and decided to visit this picturesque hill spot.

While on my way to this land of rolling hills and dense forests, I remembered the song from movie Dil Se. The exotic setting in the movie where Shahrukh Khan grooved to the song Chaiyya Chaiyya with Malaika Arora is none other than Ooty. And the same train atop which the duo danced is none other than the toy train that runs between Ooty and Metupalaiyam in the Nilgiris.

Nature’s bounty As our car chugged in ahead, only the car horn shattering the silence, I noticed Mudumalai Wildlife sanctuary running on both my sides. Massive expanse of thick jungle dotted the winding ghat roads. On our way, we crossed small towns like Masinagudi and Kalhatti. Since we had started post midnight, we had to wait for 2 hours at the check post, just before the forest boundary. During nights, the path is closed because the roads on the route are narrow and the jungle is really thick.

The 8-hour long drive from Bangalore was scenic, and consequently verdant valleys and hills welcomed us.

Though we had taken our journey from Bangalore, my sister in law informed the Coimbatore-Mettupalayam-Coonoor-Ooty road route is equally charming. After refilling the fuel tank at Masinagudi, we ventured ahead on the narrow and steep roads. The town of Masinagudi is perfect for a weekend getaway and boasts of some wonderful resorts and homestays. If you are looking for a laidback holiday, you can rent a cottage and cut yourself from the world. Flanked by gorgeous, sun-bathed hills, the land of Blue Mountains welcomed us into its territory. The district of Nilgiris is considered most pristine in the southern state of Tamil Nadu. Regarded as the spice bowl of Tamil Nadu, Nilgiris is

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The famous toy train running on the Nilgiri Mountain Railway network

When in Nilgiris, the land of blue mountains, you must not miss the brilliance of nature in the form of spice and tea plantations known for its pleasing beauty and plantations.

It felt like lush forests, fragrant tea and teak plantations, deep valleys, steep ghat road and perfect climate, awaited us to foray into this untouched land. When in Nilgiris, you must not miss the brilliance of nature in the form of spice and tea plantations. Before we could reach our next stop that was Pykara Lake, we decided to take a short halt. We got off the car and the beautiful landscape stuck my senses, I could only see a large expanse of natural forests, grassy meadows, tea and coffee plantations, spice creepers and shrubs.

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After clicking a few pictures, we moved further. Upon reaching Pykara Lake, which is about 20 km before Ooty, I was awestruck.

The beautiful expanse of the pristine waters is a perfect example of natural beauty. After clicking tonnes of pictures, we got into a jetty, which took us from one corner of the lake to the other. Anyone would love boating in this picturesque lake. Our next pit stop was at Pykara Falls, which are located close to the lake. As the name suggests, the waterfalls emerge from the Pykara river. The river gets down majestically in a series of cascades, and the two falls are known as Pykara falls.

Picturesque landscape On our tryst with this natural beauty, we continued our enchanting drive through the estate. As we entered Ooty, picturesque landscape welcomed us. The beautiful hill station was popular even during the colonial days, and Britishers used to throng here during the summers. Situated at an altitude of 2,240 meters above sea level, Ooty is also known as the Udhagamandalam and ‘Queen of Hills’. Home to interesting tourist

Know more re the Coimbato • You can takeam y ot -O -Coonoor •

Mettupalay Road route. f 90 km at a distance o Ooty is situated km 22 3 ut re and abo from Coimbato . from Trivandrum

attractions like the Botanical Gardens, Nilgiri Mountain Railway, Centenary Rose Park, Ooty Lake, Doddabetta, Kalhatty Falls, Avalanche valley, Ooty is a perfect destination for a weekend getaway. As we reached Ooty, we decided to visit Botanical Gardens before taking the famous toy train ride. From a local guide, we got to know that Marquis of Tweedale, once the Governor of Madras, laid out the sprawling garden that is spread in over 22 hectares in 1847. The garden is divided into six sections, and all of them are equally scenic. The well-maintained green lawns, rare species of flora, fern house,

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Ooty was popular even during the colonial days, and Britishers used to throng here in great numbers during summers Above: Botanical Gardens in Ooty; Right: Picturesque view of Ooty

bushes, plants equip the garden. The place boasts of some rare species of trees like the cork tree; the paper bark tree, 20 million year old fossiled tree, and the monkey puzzle tree. The garden is home to Italian Garden, Fountain Terrace, nurseries and a fern house, which has a host of ferns and orchids. It is a sheer delight to take a walk in the garden, with flowerbeds running on both your sides. I noticed local families in the garden who were totally engrossed in picnic activities. As we moved out of the garden, we were famished.

To soothe our hunger pangs, we ventured into a local restaurant and heartily feasted on noor puttu, appams and masala dosai. We slurped glasses full of rasam and buttermilk, since an authentic south Indian meal is not complete without these.

Time for joy ride All this while, I was enjoying and waiting to take a joy ride on the toy train run by the

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Nilgiri Mountain Railway. We went to the Udhagamadalam station and bought tickets for our journey. Interestingly the price for 46 km long journey to Coonoor was only Rs 3 per person. We boarded the train, which exubered a royal charm with its royal blue colour and nicely decked compartments. I can vouch if you take this joy ride on the toy train you will return home a much happier soul.

Built by the British in 1908, trains running on this route still rely on the steam locomotives.

Listed as World Heritage Site as an extension of Darjeeling Himalayan Railways, the train site is also known as Mountain Railway of India. The blue coloured train strides ahead through the 46 km, passing through 16 tunnels and tall girder bridges. There are over 26 via ducts that fall on its way, making the journey loaded with fun and adventure.

As the train chugged along, we came across gurgling streams and hair rising curves and fearful tunnels. Not for once our did camera

stop clicking pictures. The route took us through the interiors of the district of Nilgiris.

We saw people ploughing the terrace fields, bright coloured houses, pine and teak trees, shrubs ballooning with coffee and pepper and beautiful waterfalls. Like a child, I kept peeping out of the window and noticed local kids waving at me happily.

Since the train passes through the residential towns of Lovedale, Wellington and Coonoor, I noticed the way locals thrive here. I got out of the train at Wellington to fetch some tea and experienced the quite landscape of the place. The joy ride came to a halt when we reached Coonoor. Getting off the train was not a great experience our heart yearned for more.

SpiceJet flies to Coimbatore from many cities across the network.

See schedule, page 198.

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Sacred trail

SHAMBHU NATH

This month, mix spiritualism with adventure. Trek down to Gaumukh, the source stream of Ganges, and experience the beauty of rugged mountainous terrains‌

W

hen I woke up, the morning sky was serene blue, and all I could see were the three distinct picturesque peaks of Bhagirathi at Bhojbasa. The evening before, the cloud cover had literally vanished the snow-capped peaks with surrounding mountains visible in brown rugged texture.

There was chill in the air and the flowing Bhagirathi made a constant sound that appeared both pleasant and fearful.

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The origin of river Bhagirathi is at Gaumukh, which comes along and passes by Gangotri silently of the bridge would allow only one vehicle to cross at one point of time. So this unscripted halt made all public come out and savour the outside view of Bhagirathi curving through the edges of the mountains and offered reason to click some memories.

How to reach m Delhi to • Take NH 58 fro • •

Rishikesh

from Rishikesh Hit the NH 94 to Uttarkashi gotri road on Change to Gan NH 108

Three days back, along with my friends, I started from Delhi for this trek trip to Gaumukh. Once we reached Rishikesh and headed on NH 94, the terrain complelely changed – from plains to ride in the hills. The townships of Chamba and Uttarkashi came along and looked pleasant to the eye. In the morning we did stop near Chamba. It was fairly cold just to make us feel good about a morning cup of tea.

Just before we entered Uttarkashi, the sacred river Bhagirathi joined us on the sideways.

We passed through the curvy highway and in the deep valley the river gurgled along

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with us till we reached Gangotri. Ganges or river Ganga forms as a confluence of Bhagirathi and Alaknanda at Devprayag. The origin of Bhagirathi is at Gaumukh, which comes along and passes by Gangotri. Visiting Gangotri, being one of the Char Dhams of Indian religious and sentimental existence, has long been my dream; not primarily for religious reasons alone but more so from the adventure point of view. As we continued our journey towards Gangotri, Loharinag Pala Hydro Power Project, Maneri Dam passed by. Just before Gangotri, you can break your journey at places like Harsil and Bhairon Ghati, which are very scenic and ideal for short breaks. At Harsil, you can witness lots of temples on the banks of Bhagirathi with number of mythological stories weaved into them.

Tryst with adventure At Gangotri, the adventure began much before we expected. As we were climbing up, one of the metal plates of the iron bridge, which paves the path for the passing by vehicles, shifted and a bus got stuck bringing the traffic to a complete halt. The narrowness

By the end of this ordeal, it started drizzling which made the conditions just too much to appreciate far away from Delhi summer that we escaped. Anyway, we reached Gangotri by midnight. Gangotri, as the name suggests, is known for the Gangotri temple. The white temple, located on the left bank of Bhagirathi, is devoted to Goddess Ganga. The place has its own ritual rhythm and interesting story about its existence.

A small statue, partially submerged in the river, right near the bank where people take holy dip was referred to as Bhagirathi.Though one full day is necessary at Gangotri to acclimatize with the surroundings, we chose to trek the very next morning. The dawn came with a test for all as we headed for an early morning

ns Stay optio available modations are • GMVN accom hich can w i and Bhojbasa, •

at Gangotr s Delhi dvance from it be booked in a office. e also dget hotels ar A number of bu ely, iv at rn gotri. Alte available in Gan and gs ba g in ep sle nts one can take te

cooking stove on rent.

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The landscape at Gaumukh is completely rugged, surrounded by mountains with river flowing alongside

trek post our breakfast. The first few steps from the road stretch made me feel heavy, and heart started pounding to scare me. I couldn’t even breathe for the initial few steps.

As my body resumed, I stretched my step much slower with a conscious effort on taking it easy. Mountains teach you a lot; they allow you to retrospect, to understand your body.

It is definitely not a pleasant experience to put your body in extremely trying conditions but in retrospect, the situation allowed me to know myself better.

Treacherous trek Soon, we were able to carry our weight with walking sticks, in addition to some 7-8 kilos of rucksacks and sleeping bags. The challenging, two and a half feet wide track, which reduced to a narrow stretch at times, tested our group. Everyone trekked further depending on individual body types, and speed. The route till Chirbasa is fine for an amateur, next four km surely tests your patience. We

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halted at Bhojwasa where we were to stay overnight. The last two kilomtres to Bhojwasa is certainly very dangerous. Gangotri National Park nearby has a wide variety of flora and fauna. Here, local animal life is visible intermittently but the scarier one is the Himalayan Mountain Goat which courses through rough terrain of the mountains at higher altitude. The constant shifts of the goats end up making many small and medium sized rocks fall rolling down the hill. As they fall, the momentum brings others as well. This makes the task of crossing one particular stretch very difficult and dangerous. Bhojwasa, after 14 km of trek, is a valley surrounded by mountains with river flowing alongside. One, from a distance, can see some permanent structures and many temporary tents. The Lal Babaji Ashram is an interesting place where one gets dormitories to stay. By the time we reached here after rigorous hours, the Bhagirathi peaks had a cloud cover. We had our plans for building our tents, which we

Gangotri National Park has a wide variety of flora and fauna, see the Himalayan Mountain Goat as it moves in the rough terrain

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Trek vitals to October.

• Ideal time: May months.

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planted a little away from the riverbank. By the nightfall, the temperature dipped steeply and the chill ensured that we address our body by taking a long extended sleep before our trek next day.

PHOTO : SHAMBHU NATH

Source of Ganges The trek from Bhojbasa to Gaumukh is situated at a distance of about 4 kms. Though the stretch is not very challenging, it can easily be scrolled. Here, you will come across the glacier, which has receded with time. Environment changes, global warming has clearly has an adverse effect on the glacier.

To avoid further damage, the authorities now issue only150 permits for the trek per day.

Since Gaumukh is of religious importance, here people bring small plastic cans to carry the sacred water from the Ganges. I too carried my share of sacred water which my mother was pleased to get back home.

Though Gaumukh only has a referral presenceof what it used to be, its sheer beauty and roughness is a delight to watch. I was happy that I made it and absorbed all the beauty that was in store. More importantly, it taught me a lot about myself and surely made me more humble. It ensured that I respect mountains and also do my bit to protect our natural heritage.

Above: People taking holy dip at the banks of Bhagirathi; Top: Turquoise waters of beautiful Ganges

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SpiceJet flies to Delhi from many cities across the network. See schedule, page 198.

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ala re

KHURSHEED DINSHAW

The melodious bhajans, decorations, lights and the happy faces of people all around indicate that it is Janmashtami, the birthday of Lord Krishna‌.

O

PHOTOS : DILIP BANERJEE

n Janmashtami, Hindu deity Lord Krishna is worshipped in his infant form and temples bustle with devotees eager to have his darshan. On the occasion, chants of shlokas and reciting of kirtans in praise of Kanha (Krishna), readings from religious texts especially the Bhagavad Gita and dance recitals are conducted. In the midst of the spiritual events, many devotees break into an impromptu dance or sway to the songs as they dance their worries and troubles away.

After all Krishna is known to spread joy, happiness and peace among all.

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Janmashtami also sees professional performers enacting Raasleela, the Dahi Handi with all its fervor being broken and jhankis giving glimpses of Govinda’s childhood being performed. The festival, which falls on August 22 this year, is also known as Gokulashtami or Krishna Jayanti.

Legends believe Krishna was born on a rainy and stormy night. It is apt that his birthday even today is celebrated in the midst of the monsoons. It is as if the rain god continues to welcome Krishna into the modern day world.

Hindu scriptures puranas mention that Krishna is the incarnation of Lord Vishnu and was born to kill his evil maternal uncle, king Kansa who ruled Mathura and free the people from his evil ways.

Celebrations begin

As per Indian mythology, Krishna was the eighth child of Devki and Vasudev and Kansa

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Above: Pictorial representation of Sri Krishna raas-leela; Right: Dahi handi festival in the streets of Mumbai

was determined to kill him as he had been told that Devki’s child would kill him. He had hence imprisoned Devki and Vasudev in the dungeons.

Nothing could stop Krishna from setting himself free from the dungeons. His father carried Krishna safely to be brought up in the home of his friend Nand Baba. River Yamuna steadied her flow to let both father and son cross without drowning and Krishna was protected from the heavy rain and the storm by the fiveheaded serpent called Sheshnag. Eventually Krishna grew up in Gokul (near Mathura) as Yashoda and Nand’s child.

Janmashtami in Mathura is a sight to behold with great festivities. The place where Krishna was born is known as Sri Krishna Janma Bhoomi.

The place has now been converted into a temple that is under tight security with security personnel at close intervals walking inside the temple as well as stationed in watchtowers above. The temple premise house Krishna’s janamstal (birth place), two temples of Radha Krishna, a room where the mantra “Hare Rama, hare Rama, Rama Rama, hare hare,Hare Krishna, Hare Krishna,Krishna Krishna hare hare” is chanted in varying tempos. A number of shops selling religious items, and a cave (which has an entry fee) that depicts important events from Krishna’s life are also situated in the temple complex. On Janmashtami, devotees fast the entire day and chant shlokas, sing songs in

The celebrations include performing the pooja where Krishna’s idol is bathed with milk and curd and then rocked in a cradle Krishna’s name. The fast is broken at midnight after the birth time of Krishna. The midnight celebrations include performing the pooja where Krishna’s idol is bathed with milk and curd and then rocked in a cradle.

Devotees believe that while the cradle is being rocked any wish that is made is fulfilled. Known as Jhulanotsav, cradles are placed in mandir courtyards while the ropes to rock them are adorned with flowers.The blowing of the conch, the multi layered lit lamp with pure ghee, the ringing of bells and the chant of ‘Jai Shri Krishna’ greet Govinda on his birthday. Krishna is also fed prasad of chhapanbhog (56 dishes)

as part of the ceremony. Since Krishna was fond of milk, curd and butter, a number of the chhapanbhog items are made of milk and milk products and include various kheer, laddoos, pedhas and shrikhand.

Raas-leelas are looked forward to and boys between 10-13 years act as Krishna. The five main leelas that are depicted on the occasion include Kanha’s birth or Janamleela, Shankarleela, Putanaleela where Krishna killed demoness Putana, and Nagleela where he is seen killing the giant serpent Kaliya. At Vrindavan, located 15 kms from Mathura, the chants of ‘Radhe Radhe’ are common on the streets or in its 5000 temples.

Colourful raas-leela From the age of five till he was 11, Krishna barefooted tended to his cows and hence he is called Gopal and Vrindvan is known as

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Gokuldham. It is known as Vrindavan because during that time, the place was a jungle of Tulsi (vrinda means Tulsi and van means jungle). It is also known as ManokamnaStal (wish fulfillment place). Nidhivan garden or Madhuvanis where it is believed that even today after it is dark Krishna performs maharaas with his gopis.

‘Madhuvan mein Radhika nache re, giridhar gopal’, where with Krishna’s melodious flute playing, Radha Rani dances is a common belief here. No one enters Nidhivan at night as it is said if anyone does, he will either die or become insane if they see Krishna during his raasleela. A week before Janmashtami, celebrations start with great gusto and rasleelas are enacted. At the main temples of Banke Bihari, Rangnath and ISCKON there are fixed timings for the Abhishek (holy bath) ceremonies and poojas. The day long fast kept by devotees on this day can either be the nirjal fast where not a single drop of water is drunk or the phalahar fast where milk and fruits are consumed.

The ceremony of Dahi Handi is popular not only in Mathura or Vrindavan but also in several parts of Mumbai. Participants start practicing months in advance for the gala event.The event is on a small scale in small bylanes or on a grand scale in Mumbai with dahi handi competition

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prize money going into lakhs. The ceremony re-enacts Krishna’s attempts to steal makhan from the earthen pot hung from the roof. The earthen pot of today contains a mixture of milk, dry fruits and ghee. It is hung high in the air and the prize money is based on the height at which it is hung. The men who participate form a human pyramid (with a child at the top) and try to break the pot while onlookers throw water on them to stop them. Shouts of ‘Ala re ala, Govinda ala’ resound throughout dahi handi.

Another ceremony during Janmashtami is that of Jhanki where scenes from Krishna’s life are presented. Common Jhankis include his birth, Krishna being carried by Vasudev across River Yamuna, Krishna being interchanged with a baby girl thatVasudev takes back with him in place of baby Kanha, Krishna in a cradle in Gokul, King Kansa’s killing, killing of Kaliya Nag and lifting of Govardhan Hillon his index finger to protect the people of Gokul from torrential rains. Technology merges with tradition and special effects are also added to make these Jhankis visually appealing.Devotees also decorate their homes and prepare mithai made from milk as Gopal was very fond of milk and milk products. Butter is offered to his idol while footprints to indicate his presence are imprinted at the entrance of

Know more ith are adorned w • Krishna idolths es, peacock feathers •

yellow clo and flowers. he es all across t ISKCON templ rations eb el c al ci spe country have ami. for Janamasht

homes. Krishna idols decorated with ornaments, a flute and peacock feather and flowers, Kanha sculptures, wall hangings and incense sticks are placed in homes. Pooja is done by holy bathing Gopal’s idol with ganga jal, ghee, water, honey and curd. The idol is dressed in new clothes with a preference for yellow followed by bhog. The next ritual involves the rocking of the cradle with Krishna’s idol inside, singing of the Krishna arti, bhajans and reciting Gopal’s names and praise to welcome Kanha to your home and have his blessings bestowed upon you and your family.

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Journey

of a river

SUBHASISH CHAKRABORTY

Many names define the journey of this river. Crossing through different ethnicities and regions, the mighty Brahmaputra meanders through the north east of India‌

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mages from my childhood still play on in my mind. Those joyful days when as kids we would play beach cricket on the sandy stretches of the Brahmaputra riverbank in Guwahati. The Brahmaputra is not an ordinary river. On the basis of the length of the river, which is a whopping 2,900 kms, it is one of Asia’s principal rivers and perhaps the most turbulent.

Magnificent expanse It originates from the icy glaciers of the Himalayas, passes through much of Tibet, the North Eastern states of Arunachal Pradesh and Assam and finally merges with the holy river

Ganga and empties into the Bay of Bengal.

There was a wild side to the mighty expanse of the river that with the onset of the monsoons, the river’s fury and turbulence would inundate large parts of the state of Assam.

And it passes through Tibet, the river is known as Yarlung Zangbo, the stretch of the river as it passes through the mountainous state of Arunachal Pradesh is referred as the Dihang river. When it merges with the Ganges it shapes up the Sunderban delta, which incidentally happens to be the world’s largest riverine delta. This very delta for centuries has been the exclusive preserve of the rare and endangered

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PHOTOS: SUBHASHISH CHAKRABORTY

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The cruise at Brahmaputra offers a slice of local life along the way

Royal Bengal Tigers. Historical evidence suggests, the river Brahmaputra along with the Ganges was used as the vital transportation channels of the East India Company. However, with the partition of 1947 and the emergence of the railways, this rather fascinating mode of water transport was put to the backburner.

Tourism beholder For years, adventurous rafters from distant corners of the world would come with all their logistics and embark on white water rafting. In lower reaches of the river the turbulent rapids are ideal for river rafting. Assam Bengal Navigation Company, an Indo-British joint venture, operates river cruises in the Brahmaputra and Hoogly in West Bengal. I was offered the rare privilege of a 10 night cruise covering the colonial town of Dibrugarh, the medieval Ahom capital of Sibsagar, the islands of Majuli, the world famous Kaziranga National Park, the ancient city of Tezpur and the mecca of Assam’s burgeoning Silk industry – Sualkochi.

I reached Dibrugarh from Guwahati. A brisk

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Assam Bengal Navigation Company is known for operating river cruises on Brahmaputra

three and a half hour long drive past quaint Assamese countryside and lush green tea gardens brought me to the Neamati Ghat jetty where the magnificent vessel ‘Charaidew’ was moored. In another half an hour’s time the Charaidew began its long voyage all the way to Guwahati and like all long distance cruises, there was excitement in the air. As the vessel meandered its way through the river, I sat on the sundeck accompanied by a guest from UK who revealed that he was undertaking the voyage to rekindle the memories of his grandfather who had worked in a renowned tea garden of Assam and passed away soon after the 1947 partition.

Cruising along As the vessel cruised along, the fascinating riverside views dotted with charming Assamese villages and the appearance of small towns made for a truly ethereal sight. The cuisine onboard was a mix of Assamese and nouveau Indian and Continental. We stopped at the medieval city of Sibsagar. In the days of yore Sibsagar was a military bastion of the mighty

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Above: A glimpse at the mighty Brahmaputra; Bottom left: Folk dancers from Majuli; Bottom right: A weaver busy at her job

Majuli is world’s largest riverine island and has been shortlisted by UNESCO as World Heritage Site

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Ahom rulers who ruled supreme for more than 600 years. Sibsagar is one of Assam’s principal centers of tea and oil. It is here that the regional headquarters of the Oil and Natural Gas Commission is located.

Modern day Sibsagar is a town, which is rapidly developing into one of the most vibrant towns of Upper Assam. This charming town, which is also a district, has earned the distinction of

having the highest number of oil fields in Assam.

Next, we reached Majuli – the world’s largest riverine island. Here we sampled the very best of Assam’s rich socio-religious tradition and heritage viz a viz the monasteries and witnessed the unique dance and drama performance by the locals. According to our well-informed guide, Majuli has been short listed by the UNESCO as a World Heritage Site (Natural)

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Beautiful samples from Assam, the land famous for its tea, greenery and wildlife

If luck is by your side, you might even spot the elusive Gangetic Dolphins in all its beauty and it is just a matter of time for Majuli to be conferred with that coveted status.

The morning next day was largely spent cruising and to break the monotony of the cruise, we made a brief halt at Jamuguri, renowned for its fascinating tribal population. We spent an hour or so going on soft treks along the narrow winding village alleyways and chatting

nga Wild Kazira

ous nal Park if fam Kaziranga Natio k is ar p he . T fauna for its flora and ed rn t of the one-ho also the habita e om c e, you might rhinoceros. Her

in g zin ra g rhinos across untamed nds. the lush grassla

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up with the innocent village folks. The guests from UK especially were taken aback by the richness of the tribal dwellers of Jamuguri and the sight of the tribal womenfolk plying on their indigenous looms to produce exotically designed shawls was a kind of an eye-opener for them as it was for me.

Beauty in abundance By late afternoon we reached the outer contours of the world famous Kaziranga National Park, the last remaining habitat of the rare and endangered one-horned rhinoceros.

One of our guests sighted the elusive rhino and there was a herd of spotted Deers on a marshy stretch that grazed on the lush evergreen grassland. This was just the tip of the iceberg as far as the fascination with Kaziranga is concerned. The best was yet to come. After a good night’s sleep, we woke up to a cacophony of bird sounds and after freshening up had our local breakfast with refreshing tea.

Later, we got our first real brush with Kaziranga’s wilderness. As we rattled along the meandering jungle trail on our four-wheeled drive through the foggy landscape, there was a nip in the air as we travelled deep inside the forest. Excited at the sight of untamed rhinos grazing in the grasslands of Kaziranga, we traversed deeper inside the forest and

spotted varied species like the Hollock Gibbons, Capped Langurs, Bristly Hare, Sloth Bears, the Swamp Deer, Sambhar and Barasingha.

If luck is on your side, you might even spot the elusive Gangetic Dolphins that are a real treat to watch. Early next morning, as the vessel had covered enough nautical miles to be in close proximity to Kaziranga’s Central Range meant more wildlife adventures awaiting us for the day.

Apart from the early morning elephant rides and jungle safaris, visits to the neighboring tea estates were truly a very rewarding experience.

We undertook a leisurely trek along the border of Hathikuli tea estate, which belongs to the well known Tata Tea accompanied by a naturalist. The breathtaking sight of hundreds of tribal women plucking tea leaves with baskets handing at their backs is an enchanting experience.

Last three days were spent along Tezpur, Guwahati and Sualkochi, each one more interesting than the other. And so was Guwahati, the gateway city of the North East India, it indeed has come of age. T long journey opened up the vast richness of our culture and natural beauty in this part of sthe country.

SpiceJet flies to Guwahati from many cities across the network.

See schedule, page 198.

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Monsoon Burst

BHARATI MOTWANI

There is nothing quite as cathartic and deeply sensual as the experience of the monsoons on India’s west coast…

T

he monsoons are therapeutic.

To stand on a windblown beach facing a wildly bucking Arabian Sea, the sky shredded by incandescent bolts of lightening, the rain sheeting down, stinging your skin, blurring your vision and your mind, dissolving you into the elemental energy around.

The best things in life are free, or at least as in this case, heavily discounted. At this time of the year, resorts all the way from Candolim in Goa to Kumarakom in Kerala sell ‘Monsoon Packages’ at bargain prices. While the truth is, the coastal monsoons are so spectacular that the season actually warrants premium prices for a ringside view. But we city-dwellers 79

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In India, monsoon is a joyous happening that inspired Kalidas to write Meghdoot, and film makers to direct a hundred rain sequences in movies are untutored philistines when it comes to appreciating the masterpiece of the monsoons.

Something as commonplace as the rain just doesn’t count, so it’s discounted. But for those in the know, Sawan-bhadon is the time to take a ride down to Mangalore, Goa or Kerala, for what could possibly be one of the sexiest, most liberating experiences you’ve ever had. With nothing between you and the H2O, you could rediscover your primal self, get reacquainted with your chi.

Wet and wild You are water. Two thirds of your body weight is a fluid that is approximately the same density and chemical composition as the ocean. To surrender yourself to water is to blur the imaginary barrier that separates you from your environment. Perhaps man walked the earth, he lived in the seas.

The annual monsoon drenching is a call to connect with your primordial marine self. Water calls to your spirit. In every culture and every religion, there are water rituals. In India, every year, lakhs of pilgrims immerse themselves in our holy rivers; in the Judeo-Christian tradition, baptisms are a symbol of spiritual rebirth; Islam has strict cleansing rituals. All along the west coast, the monsoon can be experienced as more than just a season. It is a celebration, a consummation, a baptism and a rebirth.

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In most places of the world, the rain is a melancholic, dreary thing. But here in India it is the season of flower-decked swings and monsoon ragas. It is the season of frogs

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weddings to please the rain god Indra. It is a joyous happening that inspired Kalidas’ Meghdoot, and a hundred wet-saree sequences in Indian movies.

The coastal monsoon can best be likened to a tempestuous love-affair between the earth and the sky. Just before the first showers there is a certain subtle change in the air - something alters in the quality of light, an occasional breeze, a fragrance from far away, a sense of mild expectancy. And then the first warm, dusty drizzle-like the mildest caress; over in a few minutes, layering car windscreens with dirt. But its effect on the earth is electrifying! In this case, quite literally. Static charges the atmosphere making people edgy and irritable. Like cats with fur prickling around the scruff of their necks.

Not a breath of breeze relieves the heavy, sultry air. A palpable tension, a sense of waiting makes it difficult to think straight.

And then when the waiting seems excruciating, the moment is suddenly upon you. Without warning, as though the turgid heavens can hold back no longer. Within minutes ecliptic

In monsoons, the streets of Goa bustle with locals sporting T-shirts that say`Get wet in Goa’ or ‘It’s better in the rain!’

has never looked quite as beautiful or smelled as wonderful.

darkness descends, the wind starts to whip the palms, ringing the church bells in their belfries, blowing people and cars almost off the roads.

Thunder shakes the land, reverberating through body and heart, fearsome, exhilarating. Bolts of lightening dart and fork, ripping the fabric of the sky. And then the sky opens and empties itself onto the earth in an inexhaustible torrent.

The land lifts itself to drink deep after the long thirsty summer. And then, just as suddenly, the storm is over. The sun is out, and in the dripping afterglow, the earth, gloriously undone,

That’s when a collective sigh is heard all the way from Karwar to Quilon, as the locals hoist their mundus, sit on their verandahs to count the season’s takings and unwind over steel tumblers of steaming decoction coffee. In Goa, they say most babies arrive in March. Because, during the monsoon with fishing banned, the fishing community comes ashore. All through the rains, while the fish spawn in safety, the fishermen mend their nets, go to church, and then make babies to the music of the steady rain. All along the Malabar coast, people are caught up in

Rain soaked terrain Monsoon is the time to get acquainted with the coastal communities as they really are when the tourists are not around. When the ocean turns muddy and dangerous the backpacking tourists from Israel pack up and go, the holidaymakers from the city vacate the luxury resorts like so many fair-weather friends, the charter flights from Russia take wing like migratory birds headed for sunnier climes.

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Spice Option

nature’s infectious, uninhibited mood. In Kochi, along the jetty, executives in button-down shirts and women in silk sarees and high heels will line up to greet the monsoon lifting their faces to the rain, laughing and shrieking, unmindful of their ruined clothes. In Goa, giggling nuns splash their way through muddy puddles as a playful wind tugs at their grey habits. Locals sport cheeky T-shirts - `Get wet in Goa’ or ‘It’s better in the rain!’ In Mumbai, the season is an excuse to throw parties. In the old Goan homes, monsoons are an opportunity to sit with friends on the balcao, drinking mocktails and nibbling jackfruit wafers. Telephones go dead, the electricity fails, the tiled roof begins to leak like a sieve and rain tinkles into steel utensils strategically placed all over the house.

The garden and house are invaded by platoons of large ants, slugs and snails. And everywhere inside houses are strange, inexplicable airpockets that continue to smell of jasmine or frangipani, long after its stopped raining.

Above: In India people make most of the monsoons by visiting monsoon destinations like the hills; Below: Coastal shores of the Malabar region

Monsoons are special in Mangalore, the region shines in shades of green, with dark clouds hovering above; all reflecting the best of nature’s delight 84 August 2011

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In Goa, just before the first rains, in certain spots along the beach, the sea is believed to throw up minerals that heal rheumatism. Hundreds of elderly NRI Goans return to gather on the seafront for these healing ‘sea-baths’. Monsoons are special in Mangalore. The region shines in shades of green, hovering dark clouds reflect the best of nature’s delights here. Further down the Malabar Coast in Kerala, monsoons are the best time for Ayurveda’s rejuvenative treatments. The ancient Ayurveda texts teach that during the monsoons the body is more receptive and flexible than at other times, the pores more open to absorb the medicinal herbal oils. The humidity causes the body to perspire more and rid itself of toxins.

And Kerala is experienced that much more intensely through this Ayurveda-induced state of deep relaxation and heightened perceptions.

The psychotropic green of the paddy fields, the luminous whiteness of the mundu-veshti against dark skin, the nimbus of gold-edged white sarees and orange blossoms on oiled plaits.

The indescribable flavours of avial and appam ishtew, watching Mohiniattam – the dance of the seductress, in a temple courtyard, the spreading rain-trees of Kochi heavy with moisture reaching down to touch the ground.

The fact is, that when you want to take a vacation, there’s no place like the monsoon.

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SHOP HOPPING

Monsoon is here! Brighten your life with these beauty and lifestyle products

Dress up

Stylish jeans

Beat summers

Price: ` 24,000 onwards Available: Study by Janak, South Ext Part 1, New Delhi

Price: ` 1,500 onwards Available: All Provogue outlets across the country

Price: ` 350 onwards Available: Lee outlets across the country

Spray up

Scented you

Have a cool monsoon with Forest Essentials’ new range of Body Mists, which add freshness and fragrance to your body. These are infused with pure flower to give you a soothing affect.

Take care of your skin this monsoon with Aryanveda herbal face wash range with milli capsules. Ideal for norml to dry skin, these come with extracts of strawberry and kiwi.

Price: ` 170 onwards Available: At all leading stores across the country.

Price: ` 995 Available: Forest Essential outlets across the country

Price: ` 100 onwards Available: All leading stores across the country.

This Monsoon, give your wardrobe a fresh look with Study by Janak’s traditional dhotijacket for women. The comfy style dhoti will be an exclusive addition to your wardrobe.

Denver unveils two new fragrances – Winston and Hamilton - in deodorants body spray for men. The new fragrances are bundled with soothing and impudent smell.

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Summer is synonymous with dressing in a cool way. Provogue brings you some stylish distressed denims in a variety of fits and shades of blue to suit the mood.

Summer is here and it’s time for to go in for a complete makeover with the vibrant collection by Lee, which introduces a new range of denims, shorts, T-shirts and tops.

Skin care

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uDivine The e world world’ss 1st Hu Human-3D uman-3D Massage Chai Chairr vine's Lifesty yle Massage Programme Enjoyy the best of OSIM uDiv uDivine's Lifestyle Programmess gned by the JJapanese apanese Master, M Sato Tsuyoshi. designed

The patented OSIM Human-3D Massage is an intelligent massage system that is precise, realistic and human-contour based, delivering the most humanised, pleasurable and effective full-body massage.

Delhi/NCR # 09560591067, # 09560591057 Lucknow # 09889036830 Ludhiana # 4620774, 09872030774, 09780024764 Chandigarh # 09888237748 Mumbai # 09619857875, 09619857872, 09619857876 Pune # 08888806855 Kolkata # 033-40072473, 09163549484 Bangalore # 080 41710192, 09980075555 Hyderabad # 66663360, 40110154, 09848099740 Chennai # 32406677, 09383806633 Ahmedabad # 079-64506957, 09898288651 Indore # 4293863 Jaipur # 0141-5119599, 09928888833.

Available across all Metros at OSIM Outlets. For more Information call 09871900900 / 09560711712 Head Office / Corporate Showroom: OSIM India - A Division of Paramount Surgimed Ltd. 1, L.S.C., Okhla Indl Area, Phase-II, New Delhi - 110020; Tel: 011-41070000/70, Fax: 011-41616555 email: sales@osimindia.com, www.osimindia.com

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Better skin

Fuller lips

Accessorize

Price: ` 1099 onwards Available: All L’Oreal Paris counters across India.

Price: ` 595 Available: Major departmental stores in the country

Price: ` 1,900 onwards Available: Bagzone Lifestyles outlets across the country

Comfort thy feet

Home décor

Run fast

Price: ` 1,895 onwards Available: At all leading shoe stores like Metro and Mochi across the country

Price: ` 150 onwards Available: All Maspar stores in Delhi, Gurgaon, Noida, Bangalore

Price: ` 3,999 Available: All PUMA outlets across the country

L’Oréal Paris brings a skincare range that helps reactivate and visibly prolong skin’s youth. The Day Cream hydrates and smoothes the skin for an even complexion.

The leather footwear collection by Franco Leone incorporates a perfect blend of Italian designs with super lightweight and durable sole embedded with latex padding.

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Here’s the first euphoric lip-gloss enriched with Euphoryltm Ω-3, the Happiness Molecule and blue poppy extract, which leaves your lips hydrated and nourished.

Maspar home fashion recently introduced a range of decorative cushions and table runners, casual table mats. The collection brings in mystic charm brushed on rich fabrics.

Lavie brings an organic touch to summers with its latest ‘Summer Straws Collection’.

High on elegance, these bags are perfect for your day to day needs.

PUMA helps runners find their rhythm and run faster with the new Faas Collection of trainers, which come with the new BioRide technology.

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Skin care

Sports gear

Perfect skin

Price: ` 2,500 onwards Available: All leading salons across the country

Price: ` 449 onwards Available: Leading sports outlets across the country

Price: ` 45 onwards Available: Departmental stores across the country

Walk in style

Cool morning

Style your look

This monsoon get away with uneven skin tone, allergies, dark patches and blemishes.

The Ozone perfect skin tone facials are especially designed for such skin conditions.

Re-define the trend and step out in style this summer with an exciting range of comfortable T-shirts and Bermudas by Celio. Available in great range of colours, the collection is perfect for the sticky monsoon months.

Price: ` 499 onwards Available: Celio outlets all across Mumbai

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The new range by Maxxport is a fusion of style and comfort.The collection includes tracksuits, track pants and polo T-shirts, skinfits and shorts, which is ideal for summers.

Jumpstart your day with a vibrant range of breakfast trays, brought to you by Casa Paradox. These trays are available in a wide range of colours ranging from energetic reds, soft mauves to sober beiges and whites.

Price: ` 2,500 onwards Available: Casa Paradox stores in Mumbai

The Nomarks neem face wash is enriched with organic actives encapsulated beads that help remove excessive oil, deep rooted dirt, and provides relief from sunburn and acne.

Spunk up your wardrobe with Trendy Divva’s comfort wear, which focuses on comfort and relaxed feel and gives you a chic and stylish look for blazing summer months.

Price: ` 500 onwards Available: All leading stores across the country

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Spice Trail

Exotic tempering

SAYANTI BANERJEE

The one herb that offers a variety of savouring options. Cakes to puddings and much more it adds that extra bit to every dish

M

ace, though not much heard

Original saga

of, is a distinctive spice that

It is very interesting to note that the trees bearing the fruits of nutmeg and mace are usually unisexual that bear either male or female flowers. While the male flowers are born in clusters, the female flowers usually remain solitary. The fresh fruit is spherical in shape, pale yellow in colour and bears a longitudinal groove at its centre. As the fruit matures, it bursts open along the groove and the exotic mace comes out. Since mace is closely bonded with nutmeg, the places of origin of the trees are Indonesia and Granada apart from Moluccas majorly

comes from the fruit of an evergreen tree usually that is on an average about 9 to12

metres high. More specifically, it is actually the dried reticulated ‘aril’ of the fruit while another popular spice ‘nutmeg’ is actually the dried

Each SpiceJet aircraft has been named after a particular spice. In the section ‘Spice Trail’, we bring you the history and usage of each of these spices.

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seed kernel of the fruit. You can imagine it as an interesting combination of cinnamon and pepper. The herb adds a unique taste to cakes, puddings, custards and many such desserts.

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Spice Trail

Mace is an exotic herb which adds a unique flavour and taste to cakes, puddings, custards and many such desserts

Mace sauce for Almond Pistachio Saffron Curry This sauce can be used on grilled meat or chicken.

Method:

Ingredients:

•

Heat a heavy 10-inch skillet over medium heat. Add almonds and pistachios and cook 8 to 10 minutes, stirring often. Let it cool 5 minutes. Place in a food processor and process until nuts are powdered. Set aside.

•

In a medium saucepan, heat butter over medium-high heat. Saute sweet onion until lightly browned. Add coriander, mace, white pepper, cardamom, cayenne pepper, and nutmeg. Cook for about 1 minute, until fragrant. Continuing to stir, add saffron, cream, salt, and powdered nuts and bring to a boil. Lower heat and simmer, stirring occasionally, untilsauce is thick enough to coat the back of a spoon, about 12 to 15 minutes.

•

Makes enough sauce for about 1-1/2 pounds of grilled meat or chicken breasts. Or simmer your favorite meatball recipe in the sauce for 15 minutes.

1/4 tsp mace 1/2 cup raw unblanched almonds 1/2 cup shelled, unsalted raw pistachio nuts 2 Tbsp butter or mild vegetable oil 1 large sweet onion, peeled and grated 1/2 tsp ground coriander 1/2 tsp freshly ground white pepper 2 green cardamom pods, husked, and ground 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper 1 pinch nutmeg 1/2 tsp saffron threads, soaked in 2 tablespoons hot water 2 cups heavy cream 3/4 tsp salt, or to taste

and in small scales in Sri Lanka, India, China, Malaysia, Zanzibar, Mauritius and Solomon Island to mention a few. These are primarily places that enjoy warm and humid climate, being around 600 metres from sea level. What is great about mace is that the tree is versatile enough to grow on a variety of soils. So the range can vary from sandy, clayey loams to red laterite soils with good drainage. Also a well-distributed annual rainfall of 250 cm is ideal for the crop to thrive to its optimum growth.

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For taste and cure When it comes to adding that extra bit of natural flavouring then both nutmeg and mace top the list of exotic spices. The food processing industry makes the maximum use of this spice in the grounded form. As a custom, internationally, the Dutch dishes use mace as a standard seasoning ingredient. Mace is used in dishes that are meant to be savouring delicacies. Versatile that it is, mace also has medicinal properties specially appreciated in Eastern countries. So its

properties as stimulant, carminative, astringent and aphrodisiac are explored to the fullest. But too much of anything is bad for sure and mace is no exception.

An excessive dose of this herb can have a narcotic effect that is not desirable. Also, this ingredient is blessed with a longer shelf-life when stored properly in a tightly-sealed jar or container in a cool, dark place, unlike most spices.

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Spice Platter

Sweet

indulgence

SAYANTI BANERJEE

It you have a sweet tooth, there is no need to extract it, rather go ahead and dig it into some of the exotic desserts around town...

I

f gulab jamun, jalebi, rabri, rasmalai and the likes still rule your dessert platter, it’s time to find out what you are missing out on! Today there is an interesting mix and match of sweet and tangy options from US, Belgium, China, Vietnam and Italy for those who love to experiment with cusines.

You can take your pick from waffles, cheese cakes, Tiramisu, honey noodles, sorbets with roasted spicy peanuts and the list goes on‌ Exotic they are for sure, living up to their place of origin. They also come for a price (good one at that) as such fancy international desserts are made available only at exclusive outlets in major cities across India too. However, they are worth indulging when a sweet treat is all that you care for!

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Spice Platter

The recently launched HäagenDazs cafe at Mumbai’s Oberoi Mall, is right here to treat you with exotic ice-cream meals

Dollops of ice-cream

Lip-smacking treats

Well, ice-creams are a universal dessert many people believe and without a dollop of these creamy treats, the entire spread remains incomplete. But there are a few dessert lovers who would give a miss to the entire food spread in order to feast on ice-creams. The recently launched Häagen-Dazs cafe at Mumbai’s Oberoi Mall, is right here to treat you with exotic ice-cream meals! A cult name for ice-creams dating back to 1961, every scoop of these super-premium ice creams are a rage across 50 countries around the globe. Even the names appearing on the menu are quite inviting! Some of the signature creations by Häagen-Dazs are Seventh Heaven, Fondue, Mystique, Chocolate Fantasy, Flower Blossom, Macadamia Nut, Paradise and Fruity Journey. The flower shaped waffle basket, the lacing of strawberry syrup, the chocolate crumble toppings are a treat for the eyes to begin with. For an exotic frozen dessert, the presentation needs to be equally captivating.

But it should also work the magic on the other senses too, specially the taste buds

If you prefer something more crunchy then indulging in the Chinese delicacy ‘Honey Noodles’ at the Ocean restaurant of the Sahara Star is all you need to do. The Honey noodles dessert usually has two cubes made out of crispy, stir fried noodles in honey and served with vanilla ice-cream. The look of them was like that of granular health bars cut into squares. They too come with dollops of ice-cream and the mix and match on the dessert platter is totally lip smacking!

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If Belgium chocolates is what kept you wanting?

Not anymore. There are loads of options for those who are craving for something luxuriously rich in chocolate. The Belgium chain Le Pain Quotidien has the answer to your chocolate yearning. Since all their chocolate desserts are made from the finest of Belgian chocolates, you simply cannot miss the mouth watering yummies like - the ‘soft center’ Chocolate cake, Chocolate brownie, Choco chip cookie and more! If hogging on calories is making you feel

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Spice Platter Similarly a bit of tapioca, a pinch of butterscotch muse and slices of apples and fresh oranges can be an exotic sweet and tangy experience.

There is more to explore but now that you know what to look out for and where to get them, you can get going and indulge your sweet tooth to your heart’s content. If the C- word ‘calories’ is still troubling you somewhere at the back of your mind, relax and savour these exotic treats in the name of ‘soul food’!

Exotic desserts • Häagen-Dazs icecream Fondue

guilty already, try the apple crumble for a change.

It has a base made from healthy oatmeal and the inside filling is of apple chunks stewed with black currants. No matter what you pick at this popular joint, a big slice of Blueberry Cheesecake is totally recommended even it may be a bit sinful, it is simply irresistible!

Sweet somethings ‘Pick me up’ is what Tiramisu means literally and by far it is the most popular Italian dessert one wants to savour any time of the day. It is has a fluffy sponge cake feel to it with a blend of smooth cream and a shot of heady espresso caffeine that adds the kick. At times there are biscuit crumbles or coffee powder layering from the top. The serving is made in Martini glasses which gives an exotic view of every layer even before one digs into it.

Sure, too much of sweets can get a bit too much actually, so mixing it up with a bit of spice is what the Vietnamese style is. Chef-De-Cuisine, Tong Hoang Gia of Trendz, the exclusive Vietnamese restaurant at Intercontinental, The Lalit Mumbai, shares that when a bit of orange sorbet is savoured with a few roasted, spicy peanuts from the exotic platter, the combined taste is amazing in the mouth.

•

Häagen-Dazs Flower Blossom waffle with ice-cream scoops

•

Honey noodles with dollops of vanilla ice-cream

• •

Belgian choco-chip cookie

• • • •

Belgian chocolate brownie

•

Mango mousse pudding

Belgian soft center chocolate cake Blueberry cheesecake Tiramisu Orange sorbet with spicy peanuts

Alex Bignotti, executive Chef of Two One Two, a fine dine Italian restaurant, vouches that every guest loves the Tiramisu served at the restaurant, more than any other dessert that their exotic platter has to offer. So the mango mousse and other chocolaty options are usually added on as special desserts for the day, from time to time.

Take away options are lesser at this outlet when it comes to dessert offerings as these delicacies are prepared fresh and melt instantly.

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Spice Platter

onsoon unches

NITIKA BAJPAYEE

Give some rest to all your fad diets this month and enjoy the splashing monsoon season with scrumptious bhajiyas and pakoras…

T

his month we have two reasons to celebrate - the Independence Day of our country and the monsoon.

Amidst all the celebrations, the month also gives you a chance to indulge in a fun activity – kite flying. Together with your friends and family celebrate the spirit of patriotism by flying colourful kites and gorging on hot and spicy food, which goes well with the rainy season.

Happy rains Monsoons bring special times for many of us.

Subtle darkness outside, overpowering clouds laden with gallons of water and thundering storms really cast a spell. Rain showers bring in the much-needed respite from the heat.

Splashes of water, puddles on the road, pitterpatter of the raindrops on the windows bring in

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a sense of happiness and enchantment. Children play in the puddles in the gardens and everything around looks bright and fresh. This time of the year, everybody craves for some hot and spicy bhajiyas and pakoras.

Summers are technically over so bid adieu to all that sweat and humidity. It is time to celebrate happy rains. Don’t fret about traffic snarls, increased power cuts, potholes on the roads and puddles in the by-lanes of your colony.

There are so many reasons to rejoice monsoons – birds fly low, scorching sun is clouded out and clouds hover up above. And with the onset of monsoons, street food stalls start offering deep-fried crispy treats – steaming hot with cutting chai. During the rainy season you can relish a great variety of street treats

like – roasted groundnuts, masala corn that is grilled over the charcoal, samosas, aloo tikki or jalebis. But bhajiyas are a must have. According to noted diet therapist Dr Anjali Mukherjee, during the monsoon months, one must opt for warm foods. “Monsoon is a great time to eat vegetables. You can spice your food with turmeric, basil and fenugreek and eat a lot of corn, chickpeas, oats and gram flour. These foods help dry up the inside of the body and prevent infections,” she says.

Sinful indulgence Monsoons and pakoras or bhajiyas go hand in hand. It is like a tradition in our country (where lives revolve around food), one has to have pakoras or bhajiyas as skies open up and the pitter-patter of the raindrops knock your windows. Served with mint chutney, vegetable

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Spice Platter

pakoras are staple snack of the country. When guests arrive suddenly, Indian mothers rush to the kitchen and bring out a plate of piping hot aloo pakoras and onion bhajiyas. These savoury fritters are a very popular component of the Indian chaat. The gram flour batter gives pakoras a unique flavour, and crispy crust sheathes all types of vegetables and sometimes even chunks of meat and fish.

Pakoras are an all-time favourite snacking option for Indians and perfect for a lazy monsoon afternoon

Rich in calories, pakora is a deep fried snack available all across the country. Vegetables like onions, potatos, spinach, cauliflower and green chillies are dipped in spicy besan (gram flour) batter and then are deep-fried. Pakoras are alltime favourite snacking option for Indians and perfect for a rainy day. These crispy treats are delicious when teamed up with a cup of hot masala chai (tea). Street vendors all over the country sell bhajiyas and interestingly wrap them in a newspaper cone.

Usually served as snacks or appetizers in Indian eateries and homes, pakoras are now available in western countries as well. Majority of Indian population relishes vegetarian pakoras and bhajiyas like palak pakora, pyaz bhajji, bread pakora, paneer pakora etc. But the trend to savour non-vegetarian options like chicken pakora, fish pakora is on the rise. Pakoras are served to guests on the festive occasions like Holi. People drool over bhang ka pakora during the festival of colours. We bring you some recipes of pakoras and bhajiyas. Try them out yourself and serve them to your family:

Mirch bhajiya (Stuffed)

Salt to taste

Ingredients

1 cup Besan (Gram Flour)

8 - 10 Pickle Green Chillies

3 tblsp Rice Flour

Oil for frying

1/2 tsp Red Chilli Powder

For the filling:

1 Pinch Turmeric Powder

1 Boiled Potatoes

1 Pinch Soda Bicarb

1/2 tsp Red Chilli Powder

1/4 tsp Ajwain

1/2 tsp Carrom seeds (Ajwain)

Method

1 tsp finely chopped Mint Leaves

•

1/4 tsp Ginger paste

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For the covering

Wash, wipe and slit the chillies along the length.

•

Remove the seeds from the chillies.

•

Mix all the ingredients for the stuffing and fill it inside the chillies.

•

Mix all the ingredients for the covering and add enough water to prepare a thick batter.

•

Dip the stuffed chillies in this batter and fry in hot oil till it is golden in colour.

•

Serve hot with ketchup or tamarind chutney.

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Spice Platter

Medhu Pakora Ingredients Besan - 2 cups Rice flour- 3 tsp Chilli powder 5 tsp Salt to taste Hing a pinch Baking soda - a pinch Oil to fry Green chilli 1 chopped Onion big 1 finely chopped Curry leaves -few Method

• • •

Wash, wipe and slit the chillies along the length.

•

Mix all the ingredients for the covering and add enough water to prepare a thick batter.

•

Dip the stuffed chillies in this batter and fry in hot oil till it is golden in colour. Serve hot with tamarind chutney.

Remove the seeds from the chillies.

Mix all the ingredients for the stuffing and fill it inside the chillies.

Fish Pakora Ingredients 4 white fish fillets (steamed and cut into pieces) Oil for deep-frying 2 tbsp corn flour A large pinch of salt 2 eggs A pinch of red chili powder 2 tbsp lemon juice 1 tsp chopped coriander leaves Method

•

Make a batter with beated eggs, chili powder, coriander leaves,salt, lemon juice. Also add corn flour and mix well.

Corn flour helps in making a smooth batter.

• •

Take a kadhai or a deep frying pan and heat oil in it.

•

Deep fry the pieces in oil till they become golden brown in color.

•

Serve the pakoras hot with mint chutney or ketchup

Dip each fish piece into the batter properly so that the batter covers the fish evenly.

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Spice Talk

New kid

on the block

NITIKA BAJPAYEE

After winning the National Award for his film I am Kalam, Harsh Mayar is all set to touch greater heights…

T

he National Capital is home to who’s who from the Indian bureaucracy, art and literary world and the fashion circuit. Delhi is also home to Harsh Mayar, the new kid who has garnered all the limelight for his much acclaimed film ‘I am Kalam’. The congested crannies of the lesser known Dakshinpuri area in south Delhi is where Mayar lives with his family – father, who runs a tent house business, mother, who like many Indian women, is a homemaker and a younger brother, who aspires to be a doctor someday. The family of four lives in the resettlement colony of Dakshinpuri, surviving on the little money that Harsh’s father, Ashok Mayar earns.

Coming from the place where rows of brick and mortar shanties greet him everyday, Harsh was recently bestowed with the National Award. The teenager and his parents did not know how to react to the news of Harsh winning a National Award, they were oblivious to the importance to the highest honour in the Indian film industry.

Essaying the role Produced by Smile Foundation, an NGO dedicated to child development, I am Kalam is a low budget Hindi film. The 13-year-old actor received the offer for this film, which has garnered 12 national and international awards, when his paternal uncle enrolled him for acting classes at the Sriram Centre for Performing Arts. “I came to know about the on-going auditions for I am Kalam at the centre. I gave the auditions and was selected,” Harsh shares. The youngster was selected amongst the 3,000 young boys who had auditioned for the role. Though he was being trained at the acting school, his real mentoring happened during the shoot of the movie.

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Spice Talk

Scenes from the much acclaimed film ‘I am Kalam’

Set in Bikaner, I am Kalam revolves around the trials and tribulations of the protagonist, Chhotu’s struggle for education Director of the film Nila Madhab Panda and well-known actor Gulshan Grover mentored him. “During the shooting, Gulshan uncle helped me refine my acting skills and the director sir got the best out of me with his superb directorial skills,” says Harsh. Sharing more on his debut film, Harsh says, “I am Kalam is the story of a child. Former President Dr APJ Abdul Kalam and his struggles to pursue his dreams and to surpass the boundaries of reality inspire the film. In the movie, I play the role of protagonist Chhotu, a nine-year-old fatherless child who comes from a very poor family and

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comes to work in a dhaba to earn livelihood for his family. He is a child who is extremely fond of studying and going to school, but unfortunately cannot. While working at the dhaba, he happens to hear a speech by Dr Kalam and gets inspired by him to an extent where he starts calling himself Kalam. This is the beginning of a series of difficulties, which culminate in a happy ending.”

Set in Bikaner, Rajasthan, the film revolves around the trials and tribulations of the protagonist – Chhotu’s, struggle for education. The

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Spice Talk

Smile Foundation is a development organisation that is benefitting underprivileged children and youth mere sath hai,” sighs Harsh. The difficulties that he faced were what the others also did – shooting in very high temperatures in Rajasthan in the middle of a desert, eating food full of sand (thanks to the frequent sandstorms there).

He has been a cooperative kid and did put up with all this quite sportingly. He was the entertainer for the team; during breaks he would mimic various artistes and keep everyone entertained. His exposure has also been amazing.

Apart from being the hero in his first film itself, he has also travelled to various international film festivals giving him great exposure.

When I asked him about his views on child actors being part of prestigious film projects, he said, “I feel that child actors who get their launching pad in prestigious films, are not only appreciated for their work but are forever

central plot of the film is in sync with the recently enforced RTE Act and stands for thousands of such aspiring children of the country. While focusing on the grave issue of child labour, the film has a very simple narrative and does not follow the clichéd way of pitting the protagonist against a slave driver. Instead, the story draws its strength from the protagonist’s determination to rise high against all odds.

Making a difference Adding to the many unique attributes of the film, is yet another fact – the film being produced by a charitable organisation, Smile Foundation.

Smile Foundation is a national level development organisation that is currently benefitting over 200,000 underprivileged children and youth across 22 states in India. Smile focuses primarily on education and health for children and with this film it is trying to reach out to peo-

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ple around the world drawing their attention to support the movement of educating every child in India to secure a better future.

Harsh is a class eight student and studies in Yogi Arvind Sarvodaya Vidyalaya in Dakshinpuri. His neighbours and friends know him as a good dancer. “Everyone in and around my colony think I will come on television. They are happy for me. It is a new experience and I am enjoying this phase,” Harsh says. Since he is a fabulous dancer, he considers perfecting his dance moves his hobby.

Sharing his experience on being a part of the film, the difficulties and the exposure, Harsh says, “I really enjoyed working in I am Kalam and have fond memories. The experience was certainly special for me, this being my first film. I always wanted to be an actor, shayad bhagwan

Raining accolades: • National Award for Best Actor in the Child Artiste Category

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Best Feature Film by audience choice at the Indian Film Festival of Los Angeles

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Best Feature Film in the children’s category at CMS International Film Festival, Lucknow

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Best feature film in the Lucas International Film Festival 2010

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Best Feature Film by the Young Jury at the International Film Festival of India in Goa 2010

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Don Quixote Prize of the International Cine Club Federations in Germany 2010

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Helping GOOD schools become GREAT!

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EDUCATOR SERVICES INCLUDE

Our Concept Based Approach Guest Lectures Curriculum Consulting will Empower your School Concept Supplements Parent/Student Seminars to foster a Love for Learning Teacher Training and more . . .

Tel: +91 22 4030 9180

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Now in Mumbai and servicing Nationwide

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Spice Talk

I am Kalam has now been invited

by Prince Charles to Buckingham Palace for a special screening remembered for that. But before making films my career, I want to complete my education – probably a masters degree in English.”

He simply loves listening to teenage icon Justin Beiber songs. “I have all of Beiber’s songs on the mobile phone that we have. I also like playing wrestling games on my Playstation. I really enjoy when I win these games,” says Harsh.

He bought the Playstation with his earnings from acting in the film. He also loves eating Kadhi Chawal that his mother Reeta cooks for him. His favourite actors are Aamir Khan and Aishwarya Rai Bacchan and wants to act in films with them. He also is a great fan of MS Dhoni and wants to invite him to watch I am Kalam on its premiere show.

With its world cinema style, I am Kalam, has certainly arrested the interest of the general audience as much as it has of the world film fraternity. The proof – four international Audience Choice Awards, where it was in competition with cult films like 3 Idiots, Udaan and Dhobi Ghaat. The viewers have chosen I am Kalam as the Best Feature Film at the International Film Festival of India (IFFI) in Goa, the Barbican London Children’s Film Festival, the Montreal International Children’s Film Festival and most recently at the Indian Film Festival of Los Angeles (IFFLA).

The film’s huge success with national and international audience – children, youth and adults alike – shows that the film not only has artistic value but is also high on entertainment value.

After garnering 12 national and international awards collectively, I am Kalam has now been invited by Prince Charles to Buckingham Palace for a special screening. We wish you all the best Harsh!

Stills from the film ‘I am Kalam’, which releases in India on August 5

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Spice Talk

Power diva

SAYANTI BANERJEE

When a woman of substance is sculpted as a beautiful diva, one can’t help but be awestruck. That’s Sushmita Sen for you, at her candid best…

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adiant skin with a beaming smile, minimal make-up, classy accessories, a chunky metallic watch, a pair of high heels to die for and black attire - defines her style statement. This Bengali beauty was all of 18 years in the year 1994, when she was crowned Miss Universe at the international pageant held in Manila, Philippines. What added jewel to her crown was the fact that she was the first Indian beauty to bring home the honour.

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As far as Sushmita’s silver screen stints are concerned, she set her foot on the Bollywood runway in 1996 with Mahesh Bhatt’s movie Dastak. In 1999, David Dhawan directed movie Biwi No 1, which became her biggest hit. She had shared screen space with Salman Khan and Karishma Kapoor.

For her character Rupali in this film, she was nominated and won the Filmfare Best Supporting Actress Award in the year 2000.Her per-

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Spice Talk

sona as a strong woman has always emerged through each of these character sketches. She essayed the character of ACP Malvika Chauhan in an engaging thriller Samay: When Time Strikes, opposite Jackie Shroff. Though the movie did not set the box office registers ringing she still won critical acclaims for her captivating performance. Apparently, Benazir Bhutto: The Movie, (her yet to release film) will be about Bhutto’s life right from her childhood days up to her controversial political career, is to be shot across Pakistan, the US, Britain and Dubai.

There is a strong speculation that none other than Sushmita can portray the slain Pakistan Peoples Party leader on screen.

Clockwise from top right: Young Sushmita looks esctatic wearing the Miss Universe crown; Even after 17 years, Sushmita is doing great career-wise; Walking with elan; Sushmita seen with her daughter Rene

Sushmita Sen was all of 18 years in the year 1994, when she was crowned Miss Universe at the international pageant 120 August 2011

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It is actually oodles of elegance and grace that makes Sushmita Sen what she is! And her unassuming personality and friendly humour can lighten up any situation. Sitting next to the judges at the sub-contests, she enjoyed prompting a few questions and answers to keep the mood of the fashion show jovial.

Spreading power Yes, she does believe that proper grooming is very important to get the perfection. That involves a bit of money too but she is not obsessed with brand consciousness. Though the streets of Milan may be her favourite shopping

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Spice Talk

Career highlights: • Winning ‘Miss Universe’ title

in 1994 at the international pageant held in Manila, Philippines. She was the first Indian beauty to win it.

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She won Filmfare Best Supporting Actress Award in 2000 for David Dhawan’s Biwi No.1

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She owns the rights to send delegates from India to the Miss Universe pageant from 2010 onwards through her project I Am She – Miss Universe India.

destination, she admits picking up a pair of chappals from Bandra Linking road for Rs 55 as well!

A style diva can make anything look stunning!

When Sushmita Sen walks down with her gang of women, the aspirants of ‘I am She’, it is quite difficult to say that she was the Miss Universe over a decade back. With an aim of touching lives with her success story, Sushmita Sen conceptualised ‘I AM She’ which is the official preliminary to the 2011 Miss Universe pageant.

She owns the rights to send delegates from India to the Miss Universe pageant through her project I AM She – Miss Universe India. In its second year, it embodies her vision for the spirit of the Indian woman and personifies the combination of beauty and intelligence that defines the 21st century winners of the Miss Universe pageant.

Sushmita Sen conceptualised ‘I AM She’ which is the official preliminary to the 2011 Miss Universe pageant 122 August 2011

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As a proud mentor Sushmita believes, “It gives me great pleasure to announce the ‘I AM She’, an endeavor close to my heart, is now three times larger. We have added two new franchisees, the Miss Globe International and Miss Asia Pacific World, and are growing as a property from strength to strength. I had the privilege of mentoring 20 of India’s finest young women. Intelligent, committed, focused and beautiful, they displayed spirit and enthusiasm that was contagious. As I present the three winners that will represent the country very shortly, I feel immensely proud to say the international crowns coming back to India are closer than we think!””

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Spice Talk

Sushmita Sen • Born: 19 November 1975 • Place of birth: Hyderabad, Andhra Pradesh, India

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Father: Shubeer Sen has been a part of the Indian Air Force

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Mother Subhra Sen worked as a fashion and jewellery designer

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Daughters: Sushmita adopted Renee in 2000 and Alisah in 2010

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Nickname: Sush, SS Mother tongue: Bengali

Sushmita was the first Indian beauty to bring home the Miss Universe crown Style quotient With a hint of power play from her dynamic personality, as a business woman Sushmita speaks her mind, “I AM She is a world-class event that has not only met with, but set international benchmarks. It has been acknowledged internationally as one of the best-conceived pageants. Being an institution for young women in India, it reflects and personifies the grace, charm and elegance of an Indian woman.”

At the Miss Photogenic contest when the contestants were being quizzed by ace photographer Joy Datta about what makes a pretty picture, on behalf of her contestants Sushmita voiced, “A handsome photographer always makes a great picture, I would love to add here!” Cheering for each contestant loudly as their best pal, the lady proudly said, “I am amazed to see how some of these nervous 18-year-olds who are setting foot on the ramp walk so confidently. These young girls are facing the questions from intelligent judges by the end of their grooming sessions. I am surprised at the confidence and flamboyance they showcase.”

A woman of many shades, Sushmita Sen (Above) with her daughter Rene at a fashion show

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Wellness

Dance away those blues

MEGHA SHARMA

Wellness is the new mantra and people are out there trying everything that can keep them fit

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here are shortcuts to happiness… and dancing is one of them,” so exclaimed Austrian writer Vicki Baum, and she hit it right! Fluid, frenzied, sensual yet at the same time uniquely calming to dance is to achieve a catharsis within you. A mode of physical activity that thoroughly exercises your body, dancing also acts as a window to your soul - a means of expression that surpasses the need for words. So, if you are looking to get rid of stress, increase flexibility, improve strength,

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Wellness

and heighten muscle tone and coordination – dancing is what we recommend.

A unique form of exercise which ensures all the benefits one can accrue from aerobics, while also allowing you to let go and engage in an enjoyable social activity – dancing is billed as being capable of reducing the risk of Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia in the elderly. It stands medically proven that dancing helps lower risk of coronary heart disease, decrease blood pressure, increase lung capacity, effectively manage body weight and strengthen the bones of your hips and legs while also contributing majorly towards brain health. A vigorous dance routine involves memorizing steps, coordinating with one’s partner, being responsive to sudden changes in the act – all of which require you to stay mentally alert.

Dancing is the ultimate form of exercise, which promotes lifestyle changes that positively affect the body, mind and soul

Dancercise to good health Delhi-based fitness trainer Kiran Sawhney holds firm faith in the innumerable benefits of dancing as a mode of exercise. “Dancing is the ultimate form of exercise. It is non-impact, high intensity and a mood enhancer. It also promotes lifestyle changes that positively affect the body, mind and the spirit. You get all in one: complete wellness with every dance step you take,” she says. Owner of a state-of-the art fitness centre ‘Fitnesolution’ in southern Delhi’s posh environs of Greater Kailash, Sawhney has been pioneering in the field of fitness and wellness since the year 1996. Her unique programs like ‘Dancercise’ and ‘Bhangra Aerobics’ are sure to get you up and going. “Dancercise is a combination of exercise and dancing to lose those excess pounds or just for fun. This program emphasizes increased agility and coordination through aerobics dance exercise,” Sawhney says. Dance helps people to come to terms with their physical

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Wellness

self. The gaiety of dance as an exercise helps uplift emotions. And as it is always said a great mind and a good body go hand in hand. What helps in dancing is that people start enjoying the dance and this brings in happiness. You automatically relax when dancing unlike most other form of exercises. Also the music helps in uplifting the mood and adds to the total effect.

Dance vs gymming Another name to reckon with on the fitness circuit is that of Vinodini Gupta. Vin (as she is popularly referred to) is a certified trainer with a classy, up market fitness studio – located in the millennium settling of Gurgaon - to her name. A wellness consultant to some major corporates, Vin analyzes the reasons why dancing is fast catching up as the favourite way to shed those extra pounds. “The sense of rhythm and flair for moving with music is what gets people hooked on to dancing. Dance also helps an individual reach total harmony with the environment around. A medium to express their life condition, dancing is totally addictive,” concludes Vin. She feels dancing has especially caught the fancy of young professionals who love socializing and meeting new people. Since there is lot of work pressure and tension they all prefer unwinding post work, more so on the weekends. Increase in health awareness has also drawn them to exercise and dancing.

Youngsters usually join in groups or pairs and perceive these dancing sessions as their ‘me’ time to unwind and relax. They also find it more

Put on your dancing shoes • Dancing satisfies the social needs of people. Dance forms like Salsa, Waltz etc encourage friendship and social networking.

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A low impact activity, dancing is less stressful on the joints.

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It crosses the barriers of age and social background.

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Dancing gets your mind off your problems while being innovative and full of new routines each day, whereas in contrast gymming, can sometimes become too monotonous.

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Wellness

enjoyable than other traditional exercise forms because of the fun involved with dancing, music and rhythm. Dancing studios are soon turning out to be a fun place for socializing as well. All the dance movements and excitement goes a long way in benefiting the body and the mind.

Spiritually speaking While being intensely physical, dancing can also be thoroughly satisfying in the spiritual sense.

Devotees from time immemorial have been known to use dance as a way to express their deep devotion for the almighty. Practitioners of the Bhakti and the Sufi Cults of medieval India employed dancing as a means to express their love for god. The Devadasi tradition of Hinduism also emphasized upon dance as the means for the ‘dasi’ to display her unequivocal dedication to the lord. Physical, mental, spiritual aspects apart, dance also ensures the emotional well being of its followers. It can help you beat depression, relieve stress, even reconnect with your partner of many years. A culturally diverse activity, we cross all barriers of class, race and gender when we dance. It encourages crosscommunity interaction, while also helping you to venture out and assert yourself in the most creative of ways possible. Dancing infuses a sense of well-being into those who practice it a sense that there is something beautiful in each of us, something that deserves to be nurtured and appreciated. If we go back to our traditions

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and customs, dance was an integral part as each community has its own dance form. Then they were perfect occasions to unwind and socialize.

After all the hard work, farmers and villagers got together for long dancing sessions. Perhaps, hard work and dancing is what made our forefathers lives so healthy.

yourself and do only those movements that you are comfortable doing.

What’s keeping you from it? So kick up your heels and hit the tempo to jive and sway your way towards a fit, satisfied, happy new YOU.

Tips for the uninitiated So, if you have been contemplating for long as to which form of exercise to take up, here is your answer – put on your dancing shoes. “Think like a dancer.

As you go about your daily activities, think of yourself as a performer on stage. Think of each movement as a graceful, balanced part of an intricate ballet. Focus on how each part of your body is moving,” opines Sawhney. This will help you love yourself and your body more. And if you think dancing has a right age to it, you are absolutely wrong. It is believed, legendary Greek philosopher Socrates learned to dance when he was 70 years of age because he felt that an essential part of his being had been neglected so far. You should only take care that you do not strain

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Spice Feature

Carving CHITRA BALASUBRAMANIAM

An artist can create magic with any medium, be it wood or canvas.

Wood carving is one art which can create magic in abundance

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xquisite cabinets, chest of drawers, ottomans, side table with clever alignment of drawers, chests, boxes - each carved with varied motifs, finished naturally, contemporary, stylish, elegant - call it whatever, it is a cynosure of all eyes – the world of walnut wood carving from Kashmir. India is a treasure trove of wood

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carving, what has further aided the rich tradition is the wide range of trees which grow naturally and offer some of the best quality wood ranging from teak, rosewood, vengai, walnut, sheesham, the king of all woods – sandalwood, neem, kadamb, oak, gambhari.…the range from hard, sturdy to the soft ones found abundantly in the toy making industry.

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r wood art Some othe n a too is know • Southern Indi ing. rv ca d isite woo

for its exqu rving out for its ca Kerala stands ak wood and te done on rose its ell known for r • Karnataka isd w fo d an g rvin Sandalwoo ca den beams. oo w ul rf de won du, wood • In Tamil Nada y is to carving i ga en V in done d. oo w

Kashmir’s pride Walnut wood carving is part and parcel of Kashmir as much as the famous Pashmina shawls. Walnut commonly called akrot in Hindi and botanically juglas regia is known as dunn in Kashmiri. And most craftsmen refer to it as dunn lakdha. The craft like many in the country has been passed on from generations. Its origin, however, is not known but there are references to wood work and wood carving being popular in this part much earlier. Wood palaces were built in the 10th Century. The Khatumband and Pinjira work is a testament of wood work being present in Kashmir for a long time. References in books trace it to walnut wood panels being sent as a part of exhibition of the Indian crafts in London in the 20th century.

Various stories abound, one includes how a King got craftsmen from Iran who were expert hands in walnut carving. Some trace it to the European influence when Europeans who came in search of Pashmina found a craving for the woodwork and had it converted into stylised furniture. Many of the motifs, designs of furniture are attuned to European sensibilities and there is a definitive tilt towards the Colonial era furniture in terms of consoles, writing desks, wine cabinets.

An example of carved wooden pillars in south India 136 August 2011

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Yet another version has it that it is Rangoon and Peshawar from where the complex craft of boat making started and this was an off shoot of that.

Whatever be the origins, the irrefutable fact remains that wood carving is a superb art. Khalil

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les Fine examp seen carving can be thern • Sandalwood or hi and other n

around Del esh and like Uttar Prad Indian states radesh ina in Uttar P Rajasthan. Nag k. or for its jaali w is well known

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s l known for it Gujarat is wel es with om h ld o in ing intricate carv ut of o ed açade carv balconies or f n for w no l k el a, is w wood. Sankhed and as is Jalandhar lacquer work unjab.

P inlay work in Hoshiarpur for

Mohammad Khalwal, a master craftsman is an expert at walnut wood carving and the art of making furniture. The carving is one part of the story while furniture making is another exclusive part of the story. Most craftsmen are skilled at both. The complex way of seasoning the wood to making wooden nails and where it cannot be made, using a simple but beautiful system of self joining is an art in itself. Khalwal’s son who is equally adept at carving reveals the thumb rule in Kashmir is that on each piece of wood, the craftsman must add at least 5 times the value by way of carving. A reason for the preference of walnut pieces is price-wise it is definitely less expensive than teak and rosewood alternatives.

It is durable and has an old fashioned charm exuding a luxurious feel.

Artistic best It is amazing to see the wonderful wood form such exquisite imagery after carving. The styles are many each art work is as beautiful as the other. The lattice work on walnut wood is

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The intricate walnut wood carving is a part and parcel of Kashmir as much as the world famous Pashmina shawls

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Wood carvings enhance the appeal of the doors, artifacts and furniture by adding an ethnic touch to them

Jagannath temple in Puri showcases the rich tradition of wood carving, the giant statue of Lord Jagannath carved out of wood is a wonder in itself more open just like the jali work. The semi carving done on the rim of the surface and the beautiful central motif adds value to the piece of furniture. This is very popular and can be seen quite commonly on pieces of furniture especially cabinets.

The specialty or value of the piece of furniture depends on how deep the carving is. Deep carving up to two inches or more in depth is time consuming and requires more skill and patience. The most expensive and unique carving is those done in 3 – 4 inches. As Khalwal says, “This kind of work requires tremendous patience and is very time consuming. There are

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very few craftsmen who are skilled at this.” The motif used is another factor to judge the quality of the artwork. The common motifs include chinar, grapes – called daksh in Kashmiri, pamposh or lotus, rose; the most expensive or rare work is the suzni or Sosni done on wood. An intricate technique today, there are very few craftsmen who can do this to perfection.

Though floral motifs are most popular, wood carving too has ventured out into many contemporary designs and motifs – the one thing that remains constant is its beauty. In other parts of the country too wood carving has always been an integral part of our age old tradition.

Most temples and traditional houses in south India have intricately carved wooden pillars.

Kerala houses with carved wooden beams and pillars reflect our rich heritage. Kerala wood carvers create wonders in sandal wood and rose wood in the form of gift items as well as miniature figures. The Jagannath temple in Puri also showcases the rich tradition of wood carving. The giant statue of Lord Jagannath carved out of wood is a wonder in itself. Also the wooden chariots which are taken out in a procession during the famous Rath Yatra are made of wood. Apart from these, the traditional wooden toys made since days immemorial is an art in itself.

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Karma

Sharing

thoughts

SHYAMOLA KHANNA

Involved in developing sustainable knowledge eco-system, Honey Bee Network is all set with its aim to harness the caliber of grassroot level innovators...

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or Dr Anil Gupta, a professor at the IIM Ahmedabad, life is not only about teaching. He thrives for more. In an attempt to do something for the society, he started Honey Bee Network way back in 1989. Among his many initiatives, this one took the cake and the bakery along with it. The movement has snowballed into 75 countries with China taking the lead. Honey Bee Network is a network of volunteers who develop a sustainable

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knowledge eco-system. In layman’s language, it is about the indigenous knowledge, which can be used by an individual or groups to save labour and add value to the efficiency of their work and output. Focussing specially on the rural segment, the information is brought out of its home environment, patented and then sent out to those who can make use it. For instance, if a farmer in Punjab has benefited by preserving his seeds in a certain manner, a farmer in Andhra Pradesh can

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Honey Bee Network disseminates knowledge and information after validating and protecting its ownership rights Idea power

take advantage from the information and can try out the same procedure to protect his seeds.

God lies in details Sharing what all went to form the network, founder Dr Gupta says, “I had returned from Bangladesh in 1986 after spending a year advising the agricultural research community on farm researches, learning from knowledge rich-economically poor farmers, tenants and labourers. There, I was paid in dollars but despite all the care I took in sharing my knowledge with local scientists and institutions, I was not happy completely. Guilt made me think that I am no different than money-lenders semi-feudal landlord, and traders who exploit poor farmers in their own resource markets. Honey Bee network was born out of several feelings, partly of guilt and partly of excitement about how much we could learn from common people who had so little and yet accomplished so much through their creativity and innovation.”

Gupta shared his work with the knowledge providers, field seminars and formed Honey Bee, which works as a catalyst in multiplying and disseminating rural knowledge. Throwing light on the project Honey Bee, Retired Brigadier P Ganesham, who heads Honey Bee

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Andhra Pradesh says, “Honey Bee disseminates knowledge and information after validating and protecting the ownership rights of the knowledge.

Any rewards and benefits go back to the owners.”

Honey Bee is a virtual organisation of volunteers, which charges no registration. Today, after five years of its formation, the number of volunteers has grown to nearly 100, and with an age range from 16 to 80 years. The volunteers go to the villages, talk to the locals and earn their trust.

Once they manage to convince villagers, Society for Research and Initiatives for Sustainable Technologies and Institutions (SRISTI) comes to the scene.

Over the last twenty years Honey Bee Network has documented more than 1,00,000 ideas, innovations and traditional knowledge practices.

The organisation already has a large database of all the traditional knowledge and grassroots innovations identified so far. The most recent addition to the Honey Bee Network is the Grassroots Innovations Augmentation Network (GIAN) which links entrepreneurs to the formal systems of technical, financial and marketing services so that a viable economic model can be worked out of the rural innovation. Through GIAN, innovators can make money out of their ideas and innovations. The organisation has its presence even in the remotest areas of the country. Although protecting intellectual property rights still remains difficult, 29 technologies have been licensed since GIAN was launched.

“Incidentally all technologies we licensed out have gone to small entrepreneurs, not one single large corporation has put in a request for a technology,”

Set up with an aim to help in documentation of the innovations and traditional knowledge practices discovered by the Honey Bee Network, SRITI is also an initiative by Dr Gupta. Both the organisations work in tandem towards the same cause. From these two smaller organisations branched the National Innovations Foundations (NIF) in the year 2000, a registered national body which monitors innovations across the country. The core principles of the National Innovation Foundation come from the Honey Bee Network and SRISTI.

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Karma weavers from Andhra’s Nalgonda district, the place known for its beautiful Pochampally saris.

Plight of his weaver mother led Mallesham to design Asu machine, through which the silk thread from the bobbins is wound on a triangular frame so that the colours and designs can be marked on it evenly. The machine involves moving the right hand which holds the silk thread, 9000 times across the 120 cms distance between the pins, covering a length of 10 kms of silk thread for just one saree.

Gupta reverts. As a result of persistent tracking, Honey Bee Andhra Pradesh has been able to bring out many interesting and unique labour saving devices through innovators at the grassroots level. Fine innovations like the ‘jyothi chulha’ and ‘asu machine’ are two unique concepts that have been patented and their owners have been felicitated. In the last two years President Pratibha Patil has organised a special forum to facilitate the grassroots innovators. Mallesham

Chintakindi, the young school dropout who made the ‘Lakshmi asu machine’ is a labour saving device for the weavers. Named after the innovator’s mother, the device has received great reviews.

Mallesham comes from a family of impoverished

Heavy work makes most of the weaver women suffer from shoulder pain and eye strain. When he got the mechanics right and the threads got done without any entangling, Mallesh was jubilant For his achievement, local Telegu channel TV9 featured Mallesham’s machine. Even Forbes magazine picked the machine and recognised Mallesham Chintakindi as one of the ‘Seven most powerful Entrepreneurs in India’. Recognition also came from President Pratibha Devisingh Patil who felicitated him at the Fifth National Award Function of National Innovations Foundation (NIF) in 2009. “There should be a national fund for testing and validation of innovative technologies by individuals at public testing facilities,” signs off Gupta after sharing his future plans.

Knowledge bank • Tie-up between startups

and the students must be encouraged and engineered to nourish the eco system for innovation.

•

National Mentor Network to be strengthened for mentoring startups in different parts of the country for proprietary or open source social technologies.

•

NCERT, AICTE and UGC ought to be persuaded to accord due place to innovations in the existing textbooks if additional books are difficult to introduce to begin with.

Online multimedia resources should also be generated.

Top: A weaver woman with the new Asu machine; Above: President awarding Mallesham for his endeavour

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Bits & Bytes/gadget

Gadgets

ASHISH BHATIA

Gadgets are the grounding factor while you are on the move. So stay connected with these gizmos even as you are changing cities

Fujifilm HS20EXR

A prosumer or bridge camera like this is a very good option for people who have outgrown the capabilities of their pocket-sized point and shoot camera but find it daunting to migrate to (and lug around a heavier), lens-swapping D-SLR option.

The HS20EXR offers good image stabilisation and an excellent wide angle to super zoom range (24-720mm). The LCD and manual zoom are nice as are the tilt-angle LCD and the external flash compatibility features. However, if you are fussy about minutae, the image quality may disappoint you a bit.

Specs: 30x zoom lens, 24mm-equivalent ultra wide-angle, 16 megapixel resolution, tilting 3-inch LCD, 7.6 fps at full resolution for eight frames, 360 degree motion panorama.

Price: ` 26,999

Travel Adapter Plug

Bags are packed and you’re ready to go. And you’ll be leavin’ on a jet plane – be sure to verify the type of electrical sockets being used in your destination country. And then carry a travel adapter along before departing.

If you’re an intrepid Macro Polo who travels to several countries across continents, it makes a lot of moolah sense to pick up a single unit multicountry travel adapter. This lets you plug your laptop, phone, and other device chargers into electrical sockets in various countries. Some adapters even come with USB ports so that you can use (or charge) two contraptions simultaneously.

Specs: Easy plug-in at all places.

Price: ` 120-`450

Samsung TukTuk Meter

No, this is not a hardware. But it is does the job of an autorickshaw or taxi meter wherever you want. A free program for Android, BlackBerry and Symbian phones, this doesn’t need a data connection to work as it uses the GPS on your phone to calculate the distance you have travelled and then computes the fare to be paid accordingly. The application is very simple to use and comprises just three screens. To account for the disparate rates charged in different cities, the TukTuk Meter doesn’t come with a pre-set base charge. You need to input the base rates according to the local city before it can start ticking.

Price: Free

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Bits & Bytes/gadget

Seagate GoFlex Slim

An excellent ultra portable external hard drive that is almost as slim as a pencil. The modularity of its design, slender profile and light weight makes it the perfect travel mate to ensconce in an overcrowded laptop bag. Mac connectivity, a USB 3.0 interface, efficient setup and automatic back-up software, as well as affordable pricing make it a very worthwhile buy. Unfortunately for some, it is only available in a 320GB capacity.

Specs: : 7,200 RPM speed, 320GB, 9mm thickness, 160gm weight, USB 3.0 (with backward-compatible USB 2.0 speeds), solid, anodised metal body.

Price: ` 4,500

Gorillapod Easy to carry, this squat camera tripod has short, flexible, gripping legs which can be wrapped around almost anything to support camera. Gorillapods are ideal for image stabilisation as well as self portrait timer shots when you can’t find a solid, flat surface to place your camera. The diminutive doodad allows to you click photos from almost any angle, place or surface without much ado. If you find this a tad expensive, check out its Cling pod or the Flexipod clones.

Specs: Different models can support weights of 325gm to 5kg; accessories include flash shoe and suction cups for phones.

Price: ` 2,200

Zebronics ZEB-3100HMV Headset These red and black, value-for-money, full-earmuff stereo headphones from Zebronics not only look pretty natty but also fit around the ears quite snugly. The attached microphone proves its usefulness while making Skype and Gchat calls. And the 1.8 metre long cable gives you ample freedom of movement. In terms of audio quality, the clarity and bass levels are decent and the volume output good. Quite obviously at this price you can’t ever think of comparing these to a Bose or a Shure headset.

Specs: 3.5mm audio jack, 20-25,000Hz frequency response, built-in microphone allows users to have hands free calls, 100mW power rating, 1 year warranty.

Price: ` 525

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Laze & Lounge/films

REEL REALITY Bollywood & Hollywood releases in August

Aarakshan Release Date: August 12 Director: Prakash Jha Cast: Amitabh Bachchan, Saif Ali Khan, Deepika Padukone,

Ace director Prakash Jha returns with ‘Aarakshan’, which is already creating controversy over its sensitive content. The film deals with the policy of caste-based reservation in education and jobs.

Padukone plays the role of a

student while Amitabh Bachchan is her father and also the principal of her college. The film also stars Saif Ali Khan in the role of Bachchan’s disciple and Padukone’s love interest. Their story takes a turn following a court order on the issue of reservation.

Though there were some concerns in some quarters on how the film has dealt with the issue of quota, it has got a U/A clearance from the censors.

UPCOMING BOLLYWOOD CAPERS

Release Date: August 19 Director: Robert Rodriguez Cast: Jessica Alba, Joel McHale

The fourth in the famous ‘Spy Kids’ series, this film sees retired secret agent Marissa Cortez Wilson trying to combat evil ‘Timekeeper’ from taking over earth. Helping her will be her twin step children. The film will have a special attraction

NOT A LOVE STORY

BODYGUARD

Release Date: August 5

Release Date:

Release Date:

Director: Nila

August 19

August 31

RISE OF THE PLANET OF THE APES

CONAN THE BARBARIAN

Release Date: August 5

August 19

Director:

Director:

John Madden

Madhab Panda

Director: Ram Gopal

Director:

Cast: Harsh Mayar,

Varma

Siddique

Director: Rupert Wyatt

Gulshan Grover,

Cast: Mahi Gill,

The story of a poor but bright boy who finds a new meaning of his life after coming to know about former Indian President A P J Abdul Kalam.

Cast: Salman Khan, Kareena Kapoor, Mahesh Manjrekar, Asrani

Cast: James Franco,

Deepak Dobriyal

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An actress gets into a relationship despite having a boyfriend.

How the story unfolds when the boyfriend comes to know.

www.spiceroutemag.com

-- ‘Aromascope’ -- which will allow the viewers to smell odours and aromas via scratch and sniff cards.

The Aromascope card will have numbers and as the numbers are shown on the movie screen, the audience will have to scratch the same number on their card. The new experiement is expected to give a box office boost to the franchise, the last production of which (Spy KIDS 3-D: Game Over) had grossed 200 million dollars in 2003.

UPCOMING HOLLYWOOD CAPERS

I AM KALAM

150 August 2011

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Spy Kids 4: All The Time In The World

The remake of a 2010 Malayalam film, it will have a punch of romance and action.

Freida Pinto A scientist tries to find out a cure for Alzheimer’s Disease but ends up giving human intelligence to an ape.

THE DEBT Release Date:

August 31

Release Date:

Marcus Nispel Leo Howard, Rachel

Cast: Helen Mirren, Jessica Chastain, Ciaran Hinds

A tribesman takes revenge on the the killers of his father and community members.

The film highlights the story of three Mossad agents who pursue a criminal from the Nazi war.

Cast: Ason Momoa,

Compiled by TUMPA DASGUPTA

2 /07/11 12:

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Laze & Lounge/books

FOR THE BEDSIDE TABLE ADULTERY AND OTHER STORIES

RIVER OF SMOKE On the grand scale of an historical epic, River of Smoke follows its stormtossed characters to the crowded harbours of China. There, despite efforts of the emperor to stop them, ships from Europe and India exchange their cargoes of opium for boxes of tea, silk, porcelain and silver. Among them are Bahram Modi, a wealthy Parsi opium merchant out of Bombay, his estranged half-Chinese son Ah Fatt, the orphaned amateur botanist Paulette and a motley collection of others in pursuit of romance, riches and a legendary rare flower. All struggle to cope with their losses and, for some, unimaginable freedoms in the alleys and crowded waterways of nineteenth-century Canton.

Author: Amitav Ghosh Publishing House: Penguin India Price: ` 699

Delighful stories about love, lust, friendship, betrayal and the ways of the heart. An ageing and unsuccessful poet whose life and literary views have been overtaken by rap artists, celebrity-hungry American students, Indian archaeologists and other hustlers. His patient and abandoned wife who sets out on her voyage of discovery. As these disparate elements come together in a delightful mix, we encounter the tragedy – of good intentions, in monumental proportions. Relationships fold and unfold as faith and the seventh commandment are tested and broken in these enjoyable short stories.

Author: Farrukh Dhondy Publishing House: Harper Collins IndiaPrice: ` 290

THE LAST SONG OF SAVIO DE SOUZA In his first novel, journalist Binoo K John returns to the land of his birth – the magical, sensual, aboutto-be-drowned tip of Kerala. Within moments of meeting Savio, the young man whose voice weaves magic in the lives of those around him, we are plunged into a story of undying love and great loss wherein church and mosque and temple vie for believers, young love finds its moorings in tragedy, and friends must earn their rites of passage. Set against the backdrop of the 2004 tsunami, this is a gripping novel about ordinary people who survive against great odds to carve their indelible stories on sand.

Author: Binoo K John Publishing House: Harper Collins Price: ` 350

By NITIKA BAJPAYEE 152 August 2011

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Laze & Lounge/music

MUSIC FROM WORLD OVER KABIR CHAURA SUFI CHAURA The latest album by Rekha Bharadwaj is an example of idealistic prose, created as a conversation with the higher power. Devotional poet Kavi Narayan Agrawal, the author of numerous devotional and secular works, draws his inspiration from the profound interest that he has in the society. The verses have been brought to life by leading Sufi and playback singer Rekha Bharadwaj. The soulful renditions add depth to the superlative poetry. The musical arrangements are largely traditional transcending the listener to a realm of sufi trance. Exhuberating a sufi flavour, ‘Sajan Kahe Na Bole Bain’, ‘Ishq Ka Rang Safed Hai Baba’, ‘Main Fakir Mera Yaar Fakira’, ‘Taruvar Seekh Mile’, ‘Bahuriya Mehendi Ka Rang Chhuttihai’ are some of the soulful songs from the album.

Artist: Rekha Bharadwaj Banner: EMI Price: ` 295 Rating: 8/10

PADARO MHARE DESS Rajasthan is a land of rich musical tradition. Rajasthani folk combines the heart-hitting melodies that possess the power to dissolve souls through the commanding ragas. One of the leading vocalists from Rajasthan, Manisha A Agarwal has set out on a mission to restore the glory of Rajasthani folk.

The artist along with thirteen leading musicians has put the album together. The album’s highlight is the title track, ‘Padaro Mhare Des’ sung and performed by 13 esteemed and world-renowned virtuosos of the Indian music, like the ghazal samrat Jagjit Singh, the Sarangi sensation and vocalist Ustad Sultan Khan, creator of Mohan Veena, Pt. Vishwa Mohan Bhat and many others.

03

Artist: Maneesha A Agarwal Banner: Times Music Price: ` 150 Rating: 7/10

ALL THINGS BRIGHT AND BEAUTIFUL This is the third studio album by the American electronic band Owl City. Recently released album has received mix reviews from the music fraternity. Adam Young, the leader, stays true to his talent of synth pop roots and dabbles in the genres of indie rock and folk. The album also guest musicians like Shawn Chrystopher, Matthew Thiessen, Breanne Duren who add their touch to the songs. The album ofcourse stays high on the Alligator Sky and hip-hop.

GW

Artist: Owl City Banner: Universal Price: ` 850 Rating: 7/10

By Nitika Bajpayee 154 August 2011

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Fairytale

Say

abracadabra!

NITIKA BAJPAYEE

The fascination for magic dates back to thousands of years now. The world of magic wands, illusion and little tricks is here to entice children and adults alike‌

M

agical fairy tales have always enthralled children with the imaginative characters, events and objects. Loved by all, Harry Potter and his friends have been gracing the pages of books and movies. The seventh and the final of the Harry Potter series written by British author JK Rowling, Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows – II created magic worldwide with its release last month. Some will miss the adventures of adolescent wizard Harry Potter on screen while some will choose to read the adventures again.

The popularity of magical stories like the Harry Potter, Percy Jackson makes children want to join in the fun part of it. If you are a Harry Potter fan, or long for a very own wand, magic appeals to you. The world of magic often fascinates children and is an interesting subject for almost everyone. The charm of magic tricks and illusion makes children want to learn this well known performing art.

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Fairytale

Mysterious experience Long before Harry Potter, magic was a hobby, a job or a way of life for people in many parts of the world. In ancient Egypt, Pharaohs had magicians perform for them. Egyptians also used sacred amulets and magical figures to keep themselves safe. And ancient traces have been found of early hunters who painted pictures on rocks and cave walls as a form of magic.

During the Middle Ages, it was a common trend for a palace to have a resident magician who entertained and predicted the future for the king. Magic has been practiced in almost all the cultures – some practiced it as a form of religious worship while some practised it for evolved understanding. Even in India the art of magic has been equally famous. India is home to some well-known magicians and illusionists.

Known for performing the famous illusion Indrajaal, PC Sorcar was an internationally acclaimed magician. His son, PC Sorcar Jr today is regarded as the living legend of Indian magic.

In Indian epics and scriptures, we have plenty of heroes who vow with miracles. Indra from the Hindu mythology appears as the master of Indian Magic, hence the name Indrajaal is recognised for Indian magic.

Organisations like Shanker’s World of Magic are practising magic with a mission. Members from the organisation present magic tricks in hospitals

Not impossible • To do the Knot Impossible

trick, ask one of your friends to volunteer.

•

You then ask the volunteer to tie the rope in a knot, but once he grabs onto the rope, he cannot let go. The volunteer will struggle for a bit and realise that it is nearly impossible to do without letting go.

•

Demonstrate that it is ‘knot impossible’ to do it. You should cross his arms and grab each end of the rope. end of the rope.

In the act of uncrossing his uncrossing his arms, the rope ends will pull through and form a knot.

Magician Muthukad displaying magical tactics to showcase smoking and drugs are not good for anyone 158 August 2011

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Fairytale

Kerala based magician Gopinath Muthukad, founded one of the first magic academy of Asia in Trivandrum and old age homes to entertain the patients and help them in recovering fast. They also present various aspects of education to students through magic, which helps children to learn faster.

For many children, mathematics is the most dreaded subjects. Sometimes the maths skills can get difficult for the young kids to learn. You will be delighted to know that you can make maths far more enjoyable for your children by sharing some quick math magic tricks with them. Simple to learn and teach, these tricks enable children to crack the math problems.

Deception point Kerala based magician Gopinath Muthukad, founded the first magic academy of Asia in Thiruvananthapuram. He is an escapologist and a stunt performer, who employs magic as a medium to convey messages to the society.

Talking about magic, the Merlin Award (highest level prize in the field of magic or illusion), winner he says, “Magic is a performing art which deals with science and psychology to create wonder in viewers. Of course, creating an illusion is far more difficult than merely puzzling someone. A magical illusion is the most fragile thing in the world. It’s like a delicate soap bubble that can be burst by sharp objects, sudden jostling, or even a gust of wind.”

The tale of the famed Indian rope magic goes dates back to more than 600 years. “Magic extensively uses storytelling. The story of rope magic states - a magician suspends a rope in an outdoor clearing. Then a boy climbs the rope and disappears, calling down insults. The

magician grabs a sword, follows and disappears too. The audience hears screams as body parts fall to the ground. Then the magician reappears, climbs down, throws the bloody parts into a basket and shakes it. The boy steps out of the basket unhurt. This is the unique magical weapon of India. Moreover the Indian magic has a classical style and different way of presentation,” says Muthukad. Creating an

Learn the art tcut to • There is no shic.or

learning mag lots of practice • You would need ach • Confident appro language to • Typical body m inds of the e manage th audience ven if you do • Do not grumble e not make it.

PC Sorcar Junior with his troop of artists putting up a magic show 160 August 2011

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Disappearing Coin

Members from Shanker’s World of Magic present tricks in hospitals and old age homes to entertain patients illusion is a technique, which is practiced all over the world. The art is widely accepted and no wonder, the world still has the mind to wonder.

The well-identified uniqueness of Indian magic was set with magic tricks called Cups & Balls and Indian Rope Magic.

Fun activity Since magic is a very popular form of entertainment for children, anyone can perform the art. All you children, do you want to quiz your friends with simple magic tricks? If you are able to perform the tricks proficiently, you could be the talk of playground conversation for weeks after the show. There are magic tricks, which are complicated and may require a number of gadgets. Fortunately, there are some simpler tricks which are easy to practice and do not burden your pockets. You can add colour to your performance in front of your friends and family by imaginative characters. Have

•

Place the cup upside down on a piece of construction paper. Trace the opening of the glass on the paper, then use scissors to cut the circle out. Tape the piece of paper to cover the opening of the glass.

•

Show your audience the glass, upside down so they cannot see the construction paper taped to the opening.

Hold up the second sheet of construction paper, along with the coin. Place the paper on a table, then place the coin on top of it. Place the glass over the coin and construction paper. Show the audience your handkerchief.

•

Place the handkerchief over the glass, then slide it. Pull off the handkerchief and show the audience the paper with the coin missing.

characters that your friends can easily relate to like clowns, pirates, or fairies. Weave your simple magic tricks into a story. Sharing an easy to do magic trick, Muthukad says, “Children can practice this trick easily. It is called Wonders of Seven. First, you place two heaps of cards on the table. The magician writes a prediction and inserts into the pocket of a spectator for keeping. Another spectator is invited to select one of the heaps. He selects and remains firm on his selection even as the magician offers a chance for changing the selection. Now the spectator counts the selected card. There are seven cards. When the prediction is unfolded these words would quiz the spectator - ‘You can select only the heap of 7’. The secret is - of the two heaps, one of the heaps will contain 7 different cards whereas the other will be made of just 4 cards of different suits but with number 7 printed. So regardless of the selection of the spectator, the prediction stands correct.”

Make your magic show a colourful one; acquire props that suit your character. If you perform as a pirate, for example, grab hold of a plastic parrot or a pirate hat. Just say abracadabra, and your friends will be entertained and excited to see you in the new avatar.

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Kids Zone/comics

Š Asia Features 162 August 2011

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Kids Zone/games

Brain teasers THAT SCRAMBLED WORD GAME

by David L. Hoyt and Jeff Knurek

MHRIET

©2011 Tribune Media Services, Inc. All Rights Reserved.

ROCUSR MPGYUR SILVHA KNYISN

Sign Up for the IAFLOFCI (OFFICIAL) Jumble Facebook fan club

Unscramble these six Jumbles, one letter to each square, to form six ordinary words.

ENGRED

Solutions

Now arrange the circled letters to form the surprise answer, as suggested by the above cartoon.

PRINT YOUR ANSWER IN THE CIRCLES BELOW

”

“TRACKED” HOUSING

“

JUNE 5, 2011

GRUMPY SKINNY HERMIT LAVISH GENDER CURSOR The new development appealed to the runner because it was —

Answer :

Answer :

GRUMPY SKINNY HERMIT LAVISH GENDER CURSOR The new development appealed to the runner because it was —

JUNE 5, 2011 “

“TRACKED” HOUSING

” PRINT YOUR ANSWER IN THE CIRCLES BELOW Now arrange the circled letters to form the surprise answer, as suggested by the above cartoon.

SILVHA MPGYUR

© Asia Features

ROCUSR

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©2011 Tribune Media Services, Inc. All Rights Reserved.

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HE CU The to t

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atures

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©2011 All Righ

Kids’delight

Surprise your kids with these gifts that will help them make most out of their time

Hike experience

Take this cool water flask along with you as you head for a summer camp or a play activity. Laken Futura will keep your drink cool and the elegant design will make you a star among your pals.

Price: ` 750 onwards Available: At all Basecamp outlets across the country

Finger licking well

The flavours of Go Cheezooos work well with kids, who can carry these carry these convenient tubes to school to make meals exciting. Available in delicious flavours like chocolate, peanut, tomato salsa, the cheese tubes come look attractive with Tom & Jerry cartoons.

Price: ` 52 onwards Available: At Nature’s Basket and Walmart stores across the country

Eye gear

Thirst quencher

The increasing mercury has already led us to find options like shakes and juices to give a little relief. Mrs Bector’s Cremica is out with a range of fruit based crushes to beat this burning heat.

Price: ` 110 onwards Available: Big Bazaar outlets and other major stores in the country

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Reebok brings stylish and colourful eyewear for children and pre-teens.

Along with highly protected lenses, the sunglasses also have soft nose pads and tips. Choose from attractive colours like blue, red, burgundy, purple and pink with flowery designs.

Price: ` 999 Available: Leading retail stores across the country or shop online www.shop4reebok.com

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ENRICH YOUR WARDROBE EXCLUSIVE WEDDING COLLECTIONS

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Photo Feature

Colours of Indepedence

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YOGESH MANHAS

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India celebrates its 65th Independence Day this month. This is the most appropriate time to look back in time and consider our country’s trials and triumphs over the last six decades.

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Photo Feature

Red Fort in Delhi has been witness to the country’s fight for independence.

As the prime witness of Independence struggle, Red Fort still plays host to grand celebrations.

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On Independence Day, people come out on streets and celebrate by singing, dancing and congratulating each other. Children all across the country celebrate through many cultural functions

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Photo Feature

Independence Day is surely an occasion when every Indian heart swells with pride and immense patriotism.

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From rural India to the metropolitan cities, each and every Indian participates in the Independence Day celebrations.

As the entire nation gears up for this prestigious day with ardent devotion and immense nationalism, armed forces too celebrate in full fervour to rejoice this special day in various ways.

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Spice Fortune

Tarot Readings for August 2011

By Acharye Nandita Pandey Jyotirvidya-Tarot Expert and Spiritual Healer

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ARIES : (22nd March- 21st April)

TAURUS: (22nd April - 21st May)

Financially the month shows subtle yet strong movements. There are certain situations that may crop up suddenly in the latter half of the month, which will change the entire professional scenario in your favour. However, you need to avoid holidays with your loved ones. There are some doubts that may creep in your mind as far as your relationship is concerned.

Certain issues are bound to aggravate your confrontation mode.

Financially, you might strike a good deal between two projects. Gains from two or more resources are high on cards. A woman who has good communication skills can be a cause of concern in your professional life. Matters of heart will need more emotional strength to deal with difficult situations. Health keeps you in good shape. Communication deadlocks in family matters should be resolved before it gets worse. Travel shows an average result.

LUCKY COLOUR : Orange

LUCKY COLOUR: Black / White

GEMINI: (22nd May- 21st June)

CANCER: (22nd June - 21st July)

Professionally, the cards guide you to take things a bit easy and delegate some of your duties to your juniors. This will help you in easing out the excess workload. Financial dealings will be more focussed towards future investments. There are a lot of changes in your health patterns. A woman who is slightly lonely by nature helps you in sorting out family issues. Travels in the latter half of the month will be fruitful. Avoid traveling too much as it can stress your love life.

Enjoy the professional success this month.

Emotional happiness in work area will be soothing. Creative ventures bring in the desired success. Matters of heart show positive subtle improvements. Financially, this is not the right time to make any fresh investments. You might undergo some setbacks as someone on whom you had a lot of faith in financial matters might not turn up as per your expectations. Health of an elderly man can be a cause of concern.

Family issues resolve eventually.

LUCKY COLOUR: Red

LUCKY COLOUR: Orange..

LEO: (22nd July - 21st August)

VIRGO: (22nd August- 21st September)

Enjoy the positive phase in your love life this month. This is an excellent time to express your inner feelings to the one close to your heart. Celebrations or an addition of a new member to your family is also indicated.

Financial changes will be positive. Health keeps you in an excellent shape. Family matters too resolve subtly. Avoiding taking any major professional decisions this month, this will help you in the longer run.

Matters of heart show positive improvements as the month progresses. Financial situations show an upward trend though a bit slowly than expected. Professional anxieties will be on the higher side. Abdominal problems can cause you trouble this month, keep a check on your diet patterns. A fatherly figure in the family who has a comfortable financial position comes forth and helps you in your endeavours. Travels will be successful.

LUCKY COLOUR: Green

LUCKY COLOUR: PInk

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Spice Fortune

ZODIAC OF THE MONTH LEO – TAROT PREDICTIONS FOR 2011

The year begins with multiple opportunities knocking your door. Professional help also comes in through friends and family. Financial matters should be handled with care as sudden legal expenses might pop up suddenly. Health keeps you in a relaxed and good shape throughout the year. Love life needs to be more flexible and the cards guide you to use your communication channels to create more harmony in your love life. Your family supports you in your endeavours. There could be some celebrations in the latter half of the year LIBRA: (22nd September- 21st October)

SCORPIO: (22nd October- 21st November)

Travelling in the beginning of the month will be as per your expectations. A woman who has a sharp tongue can cause anxieties in your love life. Professionally, situations and circumstances will be very demanding.

Disturbed sleep patterns due to financial tensions are foreseen. Health shows average improvements. There could be minor gas burns or bone aches. Support from family will be a blessing in this tiring month though you still would feel the need of more support from them..

Financial changes will be excellent and a new investment brings in much desired success in your life. Professionally, this is a time to have a firm approach. There is also a need for you to take proactive approach in your projects, as it will help you in achieving desired success. A holiday with loved one will be pleasant. Health matters resolve and show much desired improvements. Children in the family however, can be a cause of concern for you in this month. Travels show average results.

LUCKY COLOUR: Red/ Lilac

LUCKY COLOUR: Yellow

SAGGITARIUS: (22nd November- 21st December)

CAPRICORN: (22nd December- 21st January)

A balanced approach towards your professional life brings in much desired positive changes. All the communication efforts that you make in the beginning of the month show positive results as the month progresses. Financial gains will be excellent.

Health will keep you in best of your shapes. A child in the family can prove to be emotionally very demanding. Travels however, to your home ground can prove to be disappointing.

LUCKY COLOUR: Green

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Professional trends show positive developments this month. Financial promises need active involvement from your end. You need to be more realistic in matters related to health. You might come across old friends or a relative with whom you have not been in touch with for quite some time. Love life needs patient handling as there could be some disappointments, which might result in due to your careless approach towards life.

LUCKY COLOUR: Silver blue

AQUARIUS: (22nd January- 21st February)

PISCES: (22nd February- 21st March)

Matters of heart will be fulfilling and you will enjoy the professional success this month. This is the time to learn from your experiences and then contemplate a fresh move. Financial dealing can be a bit disappointing as someone on whom you would trust with regards to money matters might not turn up as per your expectations.

Abdominal problems might surface up as the month progresses and keeping a check on your sugar levels or diet pattern shall be a good idea to follow.

Professional gains from travels and various resources are indicated on the cards. This is a time for expansions and growth. There are some financial developments that you are unable to share with others. The cards guide you to take experts guidance.

Love life seems to be extremely busy in socializing and making new friends. Health issues might surface up. Travels will be successful. However, certain developments in the family can create a sense of restrictions in your mind or movement.

LUCKY COLOUR: Pink/Red

LUCKY COLOUR: Mauve

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Destinations

Agartala AIRPORT: Singerbhil Airport is located 12 km southeast from the city centre.

MUST TRY: The local Tripuri delicacies like panch phoron taarkari, misa mach poora, laksa stock, poora mach, fish stew, bamboo shoot fry and koat pitha are a must try while on your visit to the city.

MUST SEE: The ancient temple of Chaturdasha Devata, situated in Old Agartala holds historical significance. Its architecture exudes a blend of native Bengali and Buddhist influence.

MUST STAY: Ginger Hotel, located on Airport Road in Khejur Bagan, offers comfortable accommodation.

Ahmedabad AIRPORT: Sardar Vallabhbhai International Airport is 15 km from the city centre. Pre-paid taxis are easily available.

MUST TRY: Gujarati kachori stuffed with yellow moong daal, black pepper and ginger paste is a popular snack in the city.

MUST SEE: Calico Textile Museum exhibits a magnificent collection of rare textiles. Besides, furniture, temple artifacts and crafts from different parts of the country can also be seen here.

MUST STAY: Hotel Klassic Gold, a centrally located hotel in Sardar Patel Nagar offers plush amenities.

Aurangabad AIRPORT: Aurangabad Airport is located at a distance of 10 km from the city centre. Taxis are easily available.

MUST SEE: Bhoj, near Varad Ganesh Mandir is one of the oldest restaurants in the city that serves thaali.

MUST TRY: Ellora Caves are the famous rock cut caves that depict the Hindu, Buddhist and Jain faiths. Ellora Caves are listed as World Heritage Site by UNESCO.

MUST STAY: Taj Residency is a palatial hotel set amidst five acres of landscaped gardens. Located 9 km from the airport, the hotel is equipped with all the latest and modern facilities.

Bagdogra AIRPORT: Bagdogra Airport serves the towns of Darjeeling, Kalimpong and Gangtok. Taxis are easily available.

MUST TRY: Dekeva’s Restaurant in Dekeling Hotel serves wonton soup, momos, shabalay and tsampa roasted barley served with butter, cheese and milk.

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MUST SEE: Surrounded by a garden on one side and pine trees on the other, Mirik offers an enjoyable boating rides and breathtaking views of tea gardens, and orange orchards.

MUST STAY: Suhim Portico hotel on Gangtok’s Helipad Road offers the idyllic stay in comfortable rooms.

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Destinations

Bangalore AIRPORT: Bengaluru International Airport is located 40 km from the city’s business district.

MUST TRY: Relish the authentic coastal cuisine at Sana-di-ge Seafood Restaurant on Crescent Road. The specialties here include prawn chilli fry, king fish cafreal, raashi pomfret etc.

MUST SEE: St Mary’s Basilica is the oldest church in the city. The basilica is 172-foot long and 50-foot broad, with a 160-feet high spire.

MUST STAY: Savannah Sarovar Premiere is a classy five star hotel.

Ideally located for business visitors as many IT parks are minutes away.

Bhopal AIRPORT: Raja Bhoj International Airport is located just15 km from the city center. Taxis are easily available.

MUST TRY: Lagoon is a newly launched fast food joint at Bank Street in the MP Nagar area serves some delicious and pocket friendly varities of fast food.

MUST SEE: A beautiful water body of the 11th century, Upper Lake is the oldest man-made lake in India and is locally called as Bada Talab.

MUST STAY: Situated just 5 km from the airport, Welcome Heritage Noorus-Sabah Palace is a beautiful luxury property in the heart of the city.

Coimbatore AIRPORT: Coimbatore Airport in Peelamedu is 13 km from the city.

Pre-paid taxis and auto-rickshaws are easily available.

MUST SEE: Anubhavi Subramaniar Temple in Thadagam is a revered shrine in the city. It has natural outflow of water throughout the year.

MUST TRY: Hari Bavan restaurant at RTO Road the best place for nonvegetarians. Their karandi (omelet) and side dish are also quite delicious.

MUST STAY: Situated a little outside the main city, Black Thunder is a luxury resort. Nestled amidst beautiful landscape, it offers deluxe rooms.

Colombo AIRPORT: Bandaranaike International Airport is Sri Lanka’s only international airport. Taxis are easily available.

MUST TRY: Lagoon is the best seafood restaurant in Colombo. The specialties here include steamed Seer fish in Thai sauce, batter fried prawns and a host of crab dishes.

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MUST SEE: The Lionel Wendt Memorial Art Center is a multifunctional venue for exhibitions, art shows and stage events.

MUST STAY: Taj Samdura is a deluxe hotel located in the city. It offers over 300 guestrooms, health club, outdoor pool, business center and restaurant.

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Destinations

Chennai AIRPORT: Chennai International Airport is 7 km from the city centre.

Private taxis are easily available.

MUST TRY: Flower Drum, a pure vegetarian restaurant on Pantheon Road, Egmore is a good dinning option in the city. It serves Chinese, Thai, Malay and Vietnamese cuisines.

MUST SEE: Vivekananda House and Museum is a striking building on the Marina beach along the South Beach Road.

MUST STAY: Hotel Radisson in Chennai’s GST Road offers elegant accomodation and modern facilities such as Wi-Fi Internet.

Delhi MUST SEE: The National Museum, located near Connaught Place is the largest museum in the country. It exhibits a variety of pre-historic relics and works of modern of art.

AIRPORT: Indira Gandhi International Airport is located 20 km from the city centre. Pre-paid taxis and autorickshaws are easily available.

MUST TRY: Bukhara at Maurya Sheraton Hotel is known for Dal Bukhara, its signature dish, which is a big draw besides kebabs.

MUST STAY: The Metropolitan Hotel is five star deluxe hotel located centrally in Delhi.

Goa AIRPORT: Dabolim Airport in Vasco is 30 km from Panaji, Goa’s capital and pre-paid taxis are easily available.

MUST TRY: Sea Pebble near Dona Paula Jetty is perfect for seafood indulgence. The Prawn Masala Fry, Pomfret Reicheado and Crumb Fried Mullet here are irresistible delicacies.

MUST SEE: Arambol is a 16-kilometer-long stretch of beach along the Goan border with Maharashtra complete with a freshwater lagoon and cove.

MUST STAY: Experience the magic of Portuguese culture at Lemon Tree Amarante Beach Resort.

Guwahati

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AIRPORT: Lokapriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport is 25 km from city centre. Taxis are easily available from the airport.

MUST SEE: Basistha Ashram is located near the Balaji Temple at the confluence of three rivers, where Sage Vasistha built his ashram.

MUST TRY: Naga Kitchen is perfect to try different cuisines. A popular restaurant in the region, it serves delicious savouries from the region.

MUST STAY: Hotel Dynasty is ideal accommodation for both business and leisure travelers. It is known as the best 4 star hotel in North East region.

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Destinations

Hyderabad AIRPORT: Rajiv Gandhi International Airport is 25 km from Begumpet. Car rentals are easily available.

MUST TRY: Karachi Bakery in Mozamjahi Market is known for its fruit biscuits. Long queues outside the shop are a common sight as the biscuits are both delectable and affordable.

MUST SEE: Moula Ali Dargah built in the memory of Hazrat Ali, the sonin-law of the Prophet Muhammad is a must visit monument in city.

MUST STAY: The Park is a five star luxury hotel offering world-class hospitality. with classy rooms, themed restaurants, lounge, bar, night club.

Indore MUST SEE: A beautiful blend of different architectural styles, Rajwada or the old palace is a speaking edifice of a rich heritage.

AIRPORT: Devi Ahilyabai Holkar International Airport, situated 8 km from the city centre.

MUST TRY: Sarafa Bazar bustles in the night with plethora of food stalls offering the best chats of India, like sabudana khichri, aloo tikiya, pav bhaji, jalebi, malpua, rabdi and gulab jamun.

MUST STAY: Sayaji Hotel offers exquisite interiors, impeccable service and fine cuisine combine to make this Indore’s most elegant hotel.

Jaipur MUST SEE: Sisodia Rani Ka Bagh is an interesting historic place to visit.

This is a beautiful garden constructed Emperor Jai Singh’s second wife.

AIRPORT: Sanganer Airport is 13 km from the city of Jaipur. Pre-paid taxi services are easily available.

MUST TRY: Four Seasons Restaurant on Subhash Marg is a great place to relish sumptuous fare. This multicuisine restaurant serves vegetarian fare at reasonable prices.

MUST STAY: The Gateway Hotel Ramgarh Lodge offers a royal retreat in the Pink City. The rooms here overlook beautiful gardens.

Jammu

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AIRPORT: Satwari Airport is 8 km from the city of Jammu. Pre-paid taxi service is easily available.

MUST SEE: At an altitude of 3600 meters above sea level, the monastery of Tiksey is a popular Buddhist shrine.

MUST TRY: Neha Snacks is a popular food joint in Jammu. You can relish Punjabi pure-vegetarian snacks. One of the specialties being channa puri and Indian sweets.

MUST STAY: Fortune Inn Riviera, located on the banks of river Tawi, offers a beautiful view of snow-clad mountain peaks.The accommodation facilities offer a delightful experience.

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Destinations

Kathmandu AIRPORT: Tribhuvan International Airport located in Kathmandu is the only international airport in Nepal.

MUST TRY: Aqua Java Zing is a thriving new restaurant in Thamel area. It serves sumptuous international cuisines including Risottos, Pastas, Thai curry and five spice exotic vegetables.

MUST SEE: Regarded as the guardian of the valley, Machchendra Nath Temple is a revered shrine among both Hindus and Buddhists.

MUST STAY: Crowne Plaza Hotel Kathmandu - Soaltee is a luxury hotel that offers 283 rooms, health club, spa, business center and restaurant.

Kochi MUST SEE: Mattancherry Palace is a historical monument exuding medieval charm. It was originally constructed by the Portuguese in the 16th century.

AIRPORT: Cochin International Airport is 30 km the city. Pre-paid taxi are easily available.

MUST TRY: Traditional sadya meal, served with boiled rice on a banana leaf is the main attraction here. The meal comprises of rice with a side-dish and complemented by payasam.

MUST STAY: Hotel Abad Plaza situated on M.G Road offers exquisitely decorated, centrally air-conditioned rooms.

Kolkata AIRPORT: Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose International Airport is 20 km from Kolkata city. Pre-paid taxis are easily available.

MUST SEE: St. Paul’s Cathedral, built in 1847 by Major W.N. Forbes, is a spectacular specimen of Indo-Gothic architecture.

MUST TRY: Oh! Calcutta at Forum Mall is known for its signature boneless Hilsa Fish fillet, steamed in a banana leaf and served with mustard gravy.

MUST STAY: Hotel Pan Asia Continental, a plush business hotel located on Sarat Bose Road in Kolkata.

It offers stylishly decorated rooms.

Madurai AIRPORT: Madurai Airport is located about 10 kilometres from the city center.

MUST TRY: Soft and fluffy idlis at Murugan Idli Kadai, West Masi Street make for a wholesome breakfast.

Accompanying the Idlis are four different types of chutney and sambar

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MUST SEE: Sree Meenakshi Temple beckons a traveller to delve deeper into the colorful Hindu mythology.

Sundareshwar.

MUST STAY: Hotel Sangam offers spacious accommodation, multicuisine restaurant, swimming pool and conference facilities.

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Destinations

Mangalore AIRPORT: Mangalore International Airport is located around 20 km from the city centre.Taxis are easily available.

MUST TRY: Hotel Ayodhya is one of the famous eateries to savour authentic Mangalore style food items. You must try their appams, ghee dosa, vastad roti and parota.

MUST SEE: Tannirbavi Beach, is one of the nice beaches of Dakshina Kannada, which is famous for the imposing view of the sunset.

MUST STAY: Located a kilometer away from the railway station, Goldfinch hotel offers 56 well-furnished rooms for a relaxing stay.

Mumbai MUST SEE: The Gateway of India is the most imposing landmark in the city. Situated on the Apollu Bunder waterfront, the Gateway lies in front of the iconic Taj hotel.

AIRPORT: Chhatrapati Shivaji International Airport is 28 km from downtown Mumbai.

MUST TRY: Do not miss out on the tongue-tickling Mumbai street side snacks such as bhelpuris, vada paavs, pani puris and dosas at the Chowpatty on Juhu Beach.

MUST STAY: Novotel Juhu Beach, serves the guests with several options for recreation and meetings.

Nagpur MUST SEE: Kasturchand Park is the biggest meeting area which thrives on big processions, trade fairs and conventions.

AIRPORT: Dr Babasaheb Ambedkar International Airport is situated at a distance of 7 km from the city centre.

MUST TRY: Savour authetic Chinese food at the Sizzling China, a newly opened restaurant. Situated on the Sanman Lawn in Shakar Nagar, the restaurant also serves Thai cuisine.

MUST STAY: Hotel Siddhartha Inn is one of the key hotels in the city which offers elegantly furnished rooms, exotic ambience and classy cuisine.

Pune

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AIRPORT: Pune International Airport is 10 km from main city. Pre-paid taxi and auto-rickshaws operate to and from the airport.

MUST SEE: Lal Mahal constructed

by Sahaji Bhonsale, the great Maratha warrior Shivaji’s father in 1634 is a must visit in Pune.

MUST TRY: Nandus Parathas on Dhole Patil Road is a small open air eatery, which dishes out sumptuous parathas.

MUST STAY: Quality Hotel Regency offers elegantly furnished rooms facilitated with superior in-room amenities.

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Destinations

Rajahmundry AIRPORT: Rajahmundry Airport is located at Madhurapudi, around 18 km from the city centre. Taxis are easily available

MUST SEE: Sri Veerabhadra Swamy Temple is picturesquely located on a hill known as Devakuta Parvatha in the middle of the Godavari River.

MUST TRY: Relish the sweetened rose milk in the Kotagummam area in the city. Rose milk, is being served for more than 50 years now.

MUST STAY: River Bay is one of the best hotels in the city. Offering a great view of the river Godavari, the hotel comprises of cozy cottages.

Srinagar AIRPORT: Srinagar International Airport is 12 km from the city. Prepaid taxis are available MUST TRY: Camci Restaurant situated in the center of Lal Chowk is a nice place for an extended lunch or early dinner. Both Kashmiri and Chinese

MUST SEE: The Khir Bhawani Temple is a Hindu shrine dedicated to Ragnya Devi. Located in Tulamula, it is visited by a number of Hindu pilgrims on Jesht Ashtami every year.

MUST STAY: Centaur Lake View Hotel offers comfortable stay in tastefully decorated rooms.

Tirupati AIRPORT: Located at Tirumala, the Tirupati Airport is situated at a distance of 14 km from the holy city of Tirupati.

Taxis are easily available.

MUST SEE: Sri Venkateshwara Temple is purely consecrated to Lord Vishnu.

The beautiful temple lies on the hilltop of Tirumala hills.

MUST TRY: Tirumala strictly serves only vegetarian fare across all its restaurants. Try an authentic south Indian meal at Guestline Days.

MUST STAY: Fortune Kences Hotel offers 124 contemporary rooms. The hotel also has an exclusive vegetarian restaurant.

Trivandrum

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AIRPORT: Trivandrum International Airport is located at a distance of 4 km from the city centre. Prepaid taxis are easily available.

MUST SEE: Situated close to Kovalam lies Ponmudi, a place famous for its mountains, landscape and tea plantations.

MUST TRY: Jasmine Bay in the Vivanta property of Taj Hotels and resort is a perfect place to enjoy the delectable multi cuisine buffet spread.

MUST STAY: Samudra Beach Resort is an idyllic retreat. Overlooking the sea, the resort offers comfortable accommodation and Kerala cuisine.

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Destinations

Varanasi AIRPORT: Lal Bahadur Shastri Airport is 18 km from the city. Taxi and autorickshaw services are easily available outside at a charge of Rs. 125-250.

MUST TRY: Thandai has come to be associated with the culture of Varanasi.

Rich with saffron, almonds, cashew nut, pistachio and cardamom, the refreshing drink is an instant source of energy and offers respite from the heat.

MUST SEE: A tour to the oldest inhabited city must include visits to some of the prime centers of learning in the country. Among the prominent institutions are Benares Hindu University and Kashi Vidyapeeth.

MUST STAY: The 7-storeyed Hotel Hindusthan International offers contemporary accommodation and fine choice of dining.

Vijayawada MUST SEE: Mogalarajapuram Caves is famous for three cave temples believed to be as old as 5th century.

One among the three cave temples adorns a spectacular carving of Ardhanariswara.

AIRPORT: Vijayawada Airport is situated in the heart of the city of Vijayawada in the state of Andhra Pradesh. Taxis are easily available.

MUST TRY: Situated in Mughalraja Puram, the Midas Taste Buds restaurant serves traditional cuisines of Andhra Pradesh. Here you can enjoy true flavours from the state.

MUST STAY: The Gateway Hotel is a perfect place for your stay. Panoramic views of the Krishna River and surrounding hills will greet you here.

Vizag AIRPORT: Visakhapatnam Airport is located about 7 km from the city center. Pre-paid taxis are easily available for any destination.

MUST TRY: Located on Vizag Bhimili Road, Karteeka Vanam is just the place to savor local Andhra cuisine.

It is specially recommended for its non-vegetarian fare. The Andhra style chicken curry is a must try here.

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MUST SEE: One of the best beaches in the state, Rishikonda Beach is a secluded but a popular tourist attraction near Vizag. Located 8 km from the city amidst scenic environs, it offers water-skiing, and wind-surfing.

MUST STAY: Fortune Inn Sree Kanya offers a home-away-from-home experience with its tastefully decorated rooms .

www.spiceroutemag.com

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Onshore Live “CASINO” at MAYFAIR Gangtok India’s 1st

★★★★★

GANGTOK

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SpiceJet Route

routemap

Srinagar

“Travel across the SpiceJet network�

Jammu

Delhi Kathmandu Jaipur

Bagdogra

Guwahati

Varanasi Agartala Ahmedabad Kolkata

Nagpur

Mumbai

Vizag

Pune Hyderabad Goa

FACT

Bangalore Chennai

Coimbatore Madurai Kochi

PUNE:

In 1625, Rango Bapuji Dhadphale became the first major developers of the city, overseeing construction of the Kasba, Somwar, Raviwar and Shaniwar Peths.

BAGDOGRA

The area in which Bagdogra is situated is commonly called the Dooars at the foothills of the eastern Himalayas.

DELHI Colombo

In the year1206, Qutub-ud-din Aybak, the earliest ruler of the Slave Dynasty established the Delhi Sultanate.

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Fleet Guide

Welcome onboard India’s smartest and most affordable low-fare airline SpiceJet mission

More and more people are flying for business and pleasure and everyone needs to save on time and money. SpiceJet’s mission is to ensure that flying is for everyone; both within the country and abroad. Our mission is to remain the most preferred low-fare airline, delivering the most competitive air fares with the highest consumer value.

SpiceJet fleet

SpiceJet has chosen a single-aircraft-type fleet, which allows for greater efficiency in maintenance, and supports the low fare structure. And when it came to selecting this single aircraft fleet, SpiceJet has opted for the new-generation Boeing 737-800s and Boeing 737-900ER with winglets. These aircrafts allow for safe, comfortable and efficient flying and are ideally suited for short to medium-haul flights.

Row 1 - 36

TECHNICAL DETAILS

BOEING 737-900ER

BOEING 737-800

Passengers (single class configuration) Engines (maximum thrust) Maximum Fuel Capacity Maximum Takeoff Weight Maximum Range Typical Cruise Speed ( at 35,000 feet)

212 CFMI CFM56-7B26 (26,300 lbs.)

6,875 U.S. gal (26,020 L) 167,000 lb (75,749 kg) 2,700 nautical miles (4,996 km) 0.78 Mach (511 mph) (823 km/h)

189 CFMI CFM56-7B24 (24,200 lbs.)

6,875 U.S. gal (26,020 L) 156,500 lb (70,987 kg) 3,060 nautical miles (5,665 km) 0.785 Mach (530 mph) (828 km/h)

112 ft 7 in (34.3 m) 117 ft 5 in (35.7 m) 138 ft 2 in (42.1 m) 41 ft 2 in (12.5 m) 11 ft 7 in (3.53 m)

112 ft 7 in (34.3 m) 117 ft 5 in (35.7 m) 129 ft 6 in (39.5 m) 41 ft 2 in (12.5 m) 11 ft 7 in (3.53 m)

Basic Dimensions Wing Span With Winglets Overall Length Tail Height Interior Cabin Width

SpiceJet’s new generation fleet of aircraft is backed by cutting-edge technology and infrastructure to ensure the highest standards in operating efficiency.

With maintenance support by Boeing IMM and state-of-the-art technology from world leaders like ‘Q’ pulse, Russell Adams there will be no compromise on safety, reliability or on-time travel.

For bookings, call our 24 hour SpiceJet call centre 1800 180 3333 / 987 180 3333 or visit our website spicejet.com 196 August 2011

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Spice Schedule

ORIGIN

DESTINATION

Agartala

Ahmedabad

Bagdogra

Bangalore

Chennai

FLIGHT NO.

FREQ

DEP

ARRIVAL

ORIGIN

DESTINATION

FLIGHT NO.

FREQ

DEP

ARRIVAL 1455

Bangalore via CCU-HYD

SG 872

Daily

1615

2120

Bagdogra via CCU

SG 323

Daily

1105

Guwahati

SG 873

Daily

1250

1350

Bangalore

SG 886

Daily

2125

2210

Hyderabad via CCU

SG 872

Daily

1615

1945

Coimbatore

SG 281

Daily

0845

0950

Kolkata

SG 874

Daily

1600

1700

Coimbatore

SG 283

Daily

1900

2000

Kolkata

SG 872

Daily

1615

1715

Delhi

SG 312

Daily

0705

0955

Mumbai via CCU

SG 874

Daily

1600

2045

Delhi

SG 304

Daily

1140

1430

Bangalore via BOM

SG 528

Daily

0550

0925

Delhi

SG 308

Daily

1945

2235

Bangalore via PNQ

SG 345

Daily

2120

0040

Delhi via BOM-AMD

SG 106

Daily

0545

1115

Chennai

SG 281

Daily

0550

0810

Delhi via HYD-JAI

SG 912

Daily

0755

1300

Chennai via BOM

SG 206

Daily

1905

2255

Delhi via PNQ

SG 208

Daily

0450

0905

Chennai via HYD

SG 917

Daily

0610

0945

Hyderabad

SG 912

Daily

0755

0855

Coimbatore via MAA

SG 281

Daily

0550

0950

Hyderabad

SG 916

1,3,4,5,7

1950

2100

Delhi

SG 104

Daily

0700

0835

Hyderabad

SG 916

2,6

2030

2130

Delhi

SG 106

Daily

0945

1115

Jaipur via HYD

SG 912

Daily

0755

1135

Delhi

SG 138

Daily

2130

2310

Kolkata

SG 887

Daily

0815

1025

Delhi

SG 218

Daily

1945

2115

Kolkata

SG 323

Daily

1105

1320

Goa

SG 137

Daily

1705

1845

Madurai

SG 291

Daily

0840

0940

Guwahati via BOM-BLR-CCU

SG 528

Daily

0550

1405

Madurai

SG 303

Daily

1715

1815

Guwahati via CCU

SG 883

Daily

1440

1855

Mumbai

SG 106

Daily

0545

0735

Hyderabad

SG 917

Daily

0610

0805

Mumbai

SG 296

Daily

2010

2155

Jaipur

SG 342

Daily

0935

1050

Pune

SG 208

Daily

0450

0630

Kolkata

SG 883

Daily

1440

1710

Vizag

SG 921

1,3,4,5,7

1605

1715

Kolkata via BOM-BLR

SG 528

Daily

0550

1220

Vizag

SG 921

2,6

1655

1815

Kolkata via DEL

SG 104

Daily

0700

1125

Ahmedabad via MAA

SG 282

Daily

1020

1410

Kolkata via JAI

SG 342

Daily

0935

1400

Chennai

SG 282

Daily

1020

1120

Mumbai

SG 528

Daily

0550

0650

Chennai

SG 284

Daily

2030

2130

Coimbatore

Mumbai

SG 133

Daily

0930

1030

Delhi via BOM

SG 264

Daily

1515

1955

Mumbai

SG 206

Daily

1905

2015

Delhi via HYD

SG 234

Daily

1030

1430

Pune

SG 345

Daily

2120

2240

Delhi via HYD

SG 236

Daily

1835

2225

Chennai via CCU

SG 324

Daily

1525

1915

Hyderabad

SG 234

Daily

1030

1150

Delhi

SG 885

Daily

1030

1230

Hyderabad

SG 236

Daily

1835

1955

Delhi via GAU

SG 881

Daily

1355

1815

Mumbai

SG 264

Daily

1515

1655

Guwahati

SG 881

Daily

1355

1455

Ahmedabad

SG 133

Daily

0725

0900

Kolkata

SG 324

Daily

1525

1625

Ahmedabad

SG 137

Daily

1500

1635

Agartala via HYD-CCU

SG 871

Daily

1010

1510

Ahmedabad

SG 206

Daily

1700

1835

Delhi

Ahmedabad via BOM

SG 529

Daily

1940

2300

Ahmedabad

SG 117

Daily

2100

2235

Ahmedabad via PNQ

SG 342

Daily

0550

0905

Bagdogra

SG 881

Daily

1115

1325

Chennai

SG 887

Daily

0650

0730

Bagdogra via GAU

SG 885

Daily

0550

1000

Delhi

SG 502

Daily

0635

0925

Bangalore

SG 501

Daily

0655

0940

Delhi

SG 224

Daily

0845

1140

Bangalore

SG 223

Daily

1240

1520

Delhi

SG 243

Daily

1120

1355

Bangalore

SG 244

Daily

1455

1745

Delhi

SG 229

Daily

1600

1850

Bangalore

SG 209

Daily

1655

1945

Delhi

SG 216

Daily

2025

2320

Bangalore

SG 509

Daily

2025

2315

Delhi via NAG

SG 142

Daily

1815

2210

Bangalore via NAG

SG 141

Daily

0700

1045

Guwahati via CCU

SG 528

Daily

0955

1405

Chennai

SG 301

Daily

0630

0925

Hyderabad

SG 871

Daily

1010

1110

Chennai

SG 303

Daily

1350

1640

Jaipur via BOM

SG 344

Daily

1015

1430

Chennai

SG 309

Daily

1910

2150

Jaipur via PNQ-AMD

SG 342

Daily

0550

1050

Chennai via AMD-BOM

SG 206

Daily

1700

2255

Kolkata

SG 528

Daily

0955

1220

Chennai via PNQ

SG 219

Daily

2030

0040

Kolkata

SG 522

1,3,4,5,6,7

1525

1800

Chennai via JAI-HYD

SG 913

Daily

1340

1830

Kolkata

SG 524

Daily

2005

2200

Coimbatore via BOM

SG 109

Daily

1010

1445

Kolkata via HYD

SG 871

Daily

1010

1345

Coimbatore via HYD

SG 211

Daily

0600

1000

Kolkata via MAA

SG 887

Daily

0650

1025

Coimbatore via HYD

SG 233

Daily

1355

1805

Kolkata via PNQ-AMD-JAI

SG 342

Daily

0550

1400

Goa

SG 253

Daily

1040

1310

Mumbai

SG 344

Daily

1015

1200

Goa

SG 257

Daily

1715

1945

Mumbai

SG 529

Daily

1940

2125

Goa via AMD

SG 137

Daily

1500

1845

Nagpur

SG 142

Daily

1815

2000

Guwahati

SG 885

Daily

0550

0820

Pune

SG 342

Daily

0550

0715

Guwahati

SG 893

Daily

1520

1745

Pune

SG 228

Daily

2150

2320

Guwahati via IXB

SG 881

Daily

1115

1455

Srinagar via DEL

SG 224

Daily

0845

1350

Hyderabad

SG 211

Daily

0600

0810

Ahmedabad

SG 282

Daily

1150

1410

Hyderabad

SG 231

Daily

0740

0950

Ahmedabad via BOM

SG 106

Daily

0545

0915

Hyderabad

SG 233

Daily

1355

1605

Ahmedabad via HYD

SG 916

1,3,4,5,7

1950

2320

Hyderabad

SG 221

Daily

1510

1725

Ahmedabad via HYD

SG 916

2,6

2030

2345

Hyderabad

SG 239

Daily

1905

2120

198 August www.spiceroutemag.com

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Spice Schedule

ORIGIN

Goa

Guwahati

Hyderabad

FLIGHT NO.

Hyderabad via JAI

SG 913

Daily

1340

1650

Delhi via JAI

SG 912

Daily

0930

Jaipur

SG 913

Daily

1340

1420

Jaipur

SG 912

Daily

0930

1135

Jammu

SG 851

Daily

0850

1010

Kochi

SG 231

Daily

1020

1150

11 oo .ind

FREQUENCY DEPARTURE ARRIVAL

ORIGIN

DESTINATION

FREQUENCY DEPARTURE ARRIVAL 1300

Jammu

SG 857

Daily

1345

1510

Kolkata

SG 871

Daily

1140

1345

Kochi via BOM

SG 131

Daily

0555

1040

Mumbai

SG 403

Daily

0605

0715

Kochi via BOM

SG 103

Daily

1210

1655

Mumbai

SG 402

Daily

2130

2320

Kochi via HYD

SG 231

Daily

0740

1150

Varanasi via DEL

SG 116

Daily

0645

1110

Kolkata

SG 104

Daily

0915

1125

Vizag

SG 401

Daily

0720

0825

Vizag

SG 221

Daily

1750

1900

Ahmedabad

SG 345

Daily

1935

2050

Kolkata

SG 212

Daily

1420

1620

Kolkata

SG 213

Daily

1805

2015

Kolkata

SG 607

Daily

2040

2250

Bangalore via AMD-PNQ

SG 345

Daily

1935

0040

Madurai via MAA

SG 303

Daily

1350

1815

Bangalore via BOM

SG 343

Daily

1500

1925

Mumbai

SG 131

Daily

0555

0745

Chennai via HYD

SG 913

Daily

1450

1830

Mumbai

SG 109

Daily

1010

1215

Delhi

SG 912

Daily

1210

1300

Mumbai

SG 103

Daily

1210

1415

Hyderabad

SG 913

Daily

1450

1650

Jaipur

Mumbai

SG 852

Daily

1515

1725

Kolkata

SG 342

Daily

1120

1400

Mumbai

SG 119

Daily

1845

2055

Mumbai

SG 343

Daily

1500

1645

Mumbai

SG 894

Daily

2120

2325

Pune via AMD

SG 345

Daily

1935

2240

Mumbai via AMD

SG 133

Daily

0725

1030

Delhi

SG 852

Daily

1300

1420

Mumbai via AMD

SG 206

Daily

1700

2015

Delhi

SG 858

Daily

1540

1710

Nagpur

SG 141

Daily

0700

0840

Mumbai via DEL

SG 852

Daily

1300

1725

Pune

SG 217

1,2,3,4,5,7

0835

1045

Srinagar

SG 851

Daily

1040

1115

Pune

SG 219

Daily

2030

2235

Delhi

SG 108

2

1235

1550

Srinagar

SG 261

6

0840

1010

Delhi via BOM

SG 112

Daily

1120

1615

Jammu

Kochi

Srinagar

SG 224

Daily

1220

1350

Delhi via BOM

SG 136

Daily

1735

2210

Srinagar via IXJ

SG 851

Daily

0850

1115

Delhi via HYD

SG 108

1,3,4,5,6,7

1235

1645

Varanasi

SG 116

Daily

0935

1110

Hyderabad

SG 108

1,3,4,5,6,7

1235

1400

Varanasi

SG 114

Daily

1410

1545

Mumbai

SG 112

Daily

1120

1320

Vizag via HYD

SG 221

Daily

1510

1900

Mumbai

SG 136

Daily

1735

1935

Ahmedabad

SG 138

Daily

1915

2055

Agartala

SG 873

Daily

1130

1220

Delhi

SG 254

Daily

1345

1620

Agartala

SG 871

Daily

1415

1510

Delhi

SG 258

Daily

2015

2235

Ahmedabad

SG 884

Daily

2105

2335

Delhi via AMD

SG 138

Daily

1915

2310

Ahmedabad via BLR-BOM

SG 529

Daily

1645

2300

Kolkata via BOM

SG 804

Daily

1655

2125

Ahmedabad via JAI

SG 345

Daily

1645

2050

Mumbai

SG 247

Daily

1335

1435

Bagdogra

SG 323

Daily

1355

1455

Mumbai

SG 804

Daily

1655

1805

Bangalore

SG 523

Daily

0720

0935

Kolkata

Agartala

SG 874

Daily

1430

1530

Bangalore

SG 521

1,3,4,5,6,7

1110

1340

Ahmedabad via CCU

SG 884

Daily

1925

2335

Bangalore

SG 529

Daily

1645

1910

Ahmedabad via CCU-BLR-BOM

SG 529

Daily

1435

2300

Bangalore via HYD

SG 872

Daily

1750

2120

Bagdogra

SG 885

Daily

0855

1000

Bangalore via JAI-AMD-PNQ

SG 345

Daily

1645

0040

Bangalore via CCU

SG 529

Daily

1435

1910

Bangalore via MAA

SG 886

Daily

1845

2210

Delhi

SG 881

Daily

1530

1815

Chennai

SG 324

Daily

1705

1915

Delhi

SG 894

Daily

1815

2040

Chennai

SG 886

Daily

1845

2050

Delhi via IXB

SG 885

Daily

0855

1230

Chennai via DEL-PNQ

SG 219

Daily

1710

0040

Kolkata

SG 529

Daily

1435

1530

Delhi

SG 604

Daily

0715

0935

Kolkata

SG 884

Daily

1925

2035

Delhi

SG 606

Daily

1200

1415

Kolkata via IXA

SG 874

Daily

1430

1700

Delhi

SG 219

Daily

1710

1935 2240

Mumbai via CCU-BLR

SG 529

Daily

1435

2125

Delhi

SG 602

Daily

2050

Mumbai via DEL

SG 894

Daily

1815

2325

Goa via BOM

SG 803

Daily

0805

1300

Mumbai via IXA-CCU

SG 874

Daily

1430

2045

Guwahati

SG 528

Daily

1255

1405 1855

Agartala via CCU

SG 871

Daily

1140

1510

Guwahati

SG 883

Daily

1745

Ahmedabad

SG 916

1,3,4,5,7

2130

2320

Guwahati via IXA

SG 873

Daily

1130

1350

Ahmedabad

SG 916

2,6

2200

2345

Hyderabad

SG 872

Daily

1750

1945 1905

Bangalore

SG 872

Daily

2015

2120

Jaipur

SG 345

Daily

1645

Chennai

SG 917

Daily

0835

0945

Mumbai

SG 803

Daily

0805

1050

Chennai

SG 913

Daily

1725

1830

Mumbai

SG 874

Daily

1800

2045

Coimbatore

SG 211

Daily

0840

1000

Mumbai via BLR

SG 529

Daily

1645

2125

Coimbatore

SG 233

Daily

1645

1805

Pune via DEL

SG 219

Daily

1710

2235

Delhi

SG 116

Daily

0645

0845

Pune via JAI-AMD

SG 345

Daily

1645

2240

Delhi

SG 226

Daily

1035

1245

Chennai

SG 304

Daily

1015

1115

Delhi

SG 234

Daily

1220

1430

Chennai

SG 296

Daily

1840

1940

Delhi

SG 108

1,3,4,5,6,7

1435

1645

Delhi via MAA

SG 304

Daily

1015

1430

Delhi

SG 236

Daily

2025

2225

Mumbai via MAA

SG 296

Daily

1840

2155

200 August 2010

ice

FLIGHT NO.

DESTINATION

200

Madurai

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Spice Schedule

ORIGIN Mumbai

Nagpur Pune

Srinagar

Varanasi

DESTINATION

FLIGHT NO.

FREQ

DEP

ARRIVAL

ORIGIN

FLIGHT NO.

DESTINATION

FREQ

DEP

ARRIVAL

Agartala via CCU

SG 873

Daily

0750

1220

Hyderabad via DEL

SG 233

Daily

1140

1605

Ahmedabad

SG 106

Daily

0810

0915

Mumbai via DEL

SG 119

Daily

1615

2055 1850

Ahmedabad

SG 218

Daily

1810

1915

Chennai

SG 922

1,3,4,5,7

1745

Ahmedabad

SG 529

Daily

2200

2300

Chennai

SG 922

2,6

1840

1945

Bangalore

SG 528

Daily

0740

0925

Delhi via HYD

SG 226

Daily

0855

1245 1005

Vizag

Bangalore

SG 343

Daily

1740

1925

Hyderabad

SG 226

Daily

0855

Chennai

SG 291

Daily

0605

0755

Hyderabad

SG 402

Daily

1935

2045

Chennai

SG 206

Daily

2100

2255

Mumbai via HYD

SG 402

Daily

1935

2320

1445

Coimbatore

SG 109

Daily

1250

Delhi

SG 851

Daily

0550

0755

Delhi

SG 114

Daily

1120

1325

Delhi

SG 112

Daily

1405

1615

Delhi

SG 264

Daily

1745

1955

Delhi

SG 136

Daily

2015

2210

Delhi

SG 118

Daily

2130

2330

Delhi via AMD

SG 106

Daily

0810

1115

Delhi via AMD

SG 218

Daily

1810

2115

Goa

SG 803

Daily

1150

1300

Goa

SG 248

Daily

1515

1625

Guwahati via BLR-CCU

SG 528

Daily

0740

1405

Guwahati via CCU-IXA

SG 873

Daily

0750

1350

Hyderabad

SG 401

Daily

0520

0650

Hyderabad

SG 408

Daily

2120

2240 1430

Jaipur

SG 344

Daily

1240

Jammu via DEL

SG 851

Daily

0550

0755

Kochi

SG 131

Daily

0845

1040

Kochi

SG 103

Daily

1455

1655

Kolkata

SG 873

Daily

0750

1105

Kolkata

SG 804

Daily

1850

2125

Kolkata via BLR

SG 528

Daily

0740

1220

Madurai via MAA

SG 291

Daily

0605

0940

Srinagar via DEL-IXJ

SG 851

Daily

0550

1115

Varanasi via DEL

SG 114

Daily

1120

1545

Vizag via HYD

SG 401

Daily

0520

0825

Bangalore

SG 141

Daily

0910

1045

Delhi

SG 142

Daily

2030

2210

Ahmedabad

SG 342

Daily

0755

0905

Bangalore

SG 227

Daily

0645

0815 0040

Bangalore

SG 345

Daily

2310

Chennai

SG 219

Daily

2310

0040

Delhi

SG 208

Daily

0700

0905

Delhi

SG 212

1,2,3,4,5,7

1115

1320

Jaipur via AMD

SG 342

Daily

0755

1050

Kolkata via AMD-JAI

SG 342

Daily

0755

1400

Kolkata via DEL

SG 212

1,2,3,4,5,7

1115

1620

Bangalore via DEL

SG 209

Daily

1430

1945

Delhi

SG 262

6

1100

1225

Delhi

SG 209

Daily

1430

1605

Delhi via IXJ

SG 852

Daily

1155

1420

Jammu

SG 852

Daily

1155

1230

Mumbai via IXJ-DEL

SG 852

Daily

1155

1725

Coimbatore via DEL-HYD

SG 233

Daily

1140

1805

Delhi

SG 233

Daily

1140

1315

Delhi

SG 119

Daily

1615

1750

INTERNATIONAL SCHEDULE ORIGIN

DESTINATION

FLIGHT NO.

FREQUENCY DEPARTURE ARRIVAL

Chennai

Colombo

SG 001

Daily

1045

1200

Colombo

Chennai

SG 002

1,2,3,4,6,7

1300

1355

Colombo

Chennai

SG 002

5

1305

1355

Delhi

Kathmandu

SG 041

Daily

0740

0955

Kathmandu

Delhi

SG 042

Daily

1055

1230

Delhi

Kathmandu

SG 045

Daily

1345

1600

Kathmandu

Delhi

SG 046

Daily

1650

1830

• SpiceJet flies to 21 domestic destinations covering the north, south, east and west of India. Whether you are flying for business, visiting friends or planning a holiday, SpiceJet is the smart way to travel.

• SpiceJet now flies to 2 international destinations.

Note: Schedule subject to change and regulatory authority approvals. 1-Mon, 2-Tue, 3-Wed, 4-Thu, 5-Fri, 6-Sat, 7-Sun

For bookings, please call our 24-hour SpiceJet call centre at 1800 180 3333/987 180 3333 or visit our website at www.spicejet.com

202 August www.spiceroutemag.com

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速

速

Non-Stick & Hard Anodised Cookware FRYPAN

Classic Collection

(3.25mm thick)

Non-Stick Cookware with St.Steel. Lid

BIRYANI POT

Platinum Collection

(4mm thick)

ly

Me tal Spoon Friend

Non-Stick Cookware with Glass Lid

TAWA

Titano Collection

Me tal Spoon Friend

ly

Hard Anodised Cookware

Advance C ducing ook o r t wa In re

w ith uc Ind tion

Base

速

INDUCTION BASE COOKWARES

OK INDUSTRIES

B-73, Naraina Industrial Area, Phase-II, New Delhi - 110028 (INDIA) Ph.: 011-25894661/2/3 Fax : 011-25894664 e-mail: info@okinds.com website: www.okinds.com

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UPGRADE TO GLOBAL LIFESTYLE & COMFORTS @ HOME ..............@ WORK uPVC with

International Designs

STEEL Sound Insulation

Reinforced

Maintenance & Dust Free

Range of Colours

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No Paint or Polish Required 30 Days* from Order to Ready

100% Termite Resistance

10 Years Warranty*

And Still Within Your BUDGET

uPVC WINDOW & DOOR SYSTEMS

In technical collaboration with KĂ–MMERLING, GERMANY World leader with 23% Market share in uPVC Windows & Doors Manufactured at State-of-the-Art, Internationally Accredited Works at Manesar, Gurgaon with a choice of Glass & fitted with German Hardware Head Office : 702, Naurang House, 21, K.G. Marg, New Delhi -110001 Ph. : +91-11-23351285, 23351289 Fax : +91-11-42536434

Channel Partner : Chennai : M. : +91-9840290394 Coimbatore : M.: +91-9842287113

Works : Plot No. 139, Sector-4, IMT Manesar, Gurgaon-122050 Ph. : +91-124-4717900 Fax : +91-124-4717977

Gujarat : Ph.: +91-79-26872226 M.: +91-9909917660 Goa : Ph.: +91-832-6453591 M.: +91-9326325737

Showroom : Jalandhar : M.: +91-9815700428

Delhi - Ph. : +91-11-47527812 Gurgaon - Ph. +91-124-4256753 Noida - Ph. : +91-120-4205117 Ludhiana - Ph. : +91-9814043029, 9878400984 Mumbai - Ph.: +91-22-28710520 M.:+91-9819861204 Kolkata - Ph. : +91-33-40011406 M.: +91- 9874615037, 9230226485

* Conditions Apply

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Jaipur : Ph.: +91-141-2723569 M.: +91-9782199999 Kanpur : Ph. : +91-512-2551830, M.: +91-9005305088 Lucknow : M.: +91-9125466444

For Channel Partner Enquiry : +91- 9891285200

Grafiko Advt : 9871451313, 9810730491

Delhi : Ph. : +91-11-22110001, 9818436195

E-mail : info@windowmagicindia.com Website: www.windowmagicindia.com

27/07/11 1:11

Offices SpiceJet offices Corporate Office SpiceJet Limited, 319 Udyog Vihar, Phase - IV, Gurgaon 122 016, Haryana Tel: +91 124 3913939 Fax: +91 124 3913844 Customer Services Vice President: Shraboni Mitra, Customer Services E-mail: shraboni.mitra@spicejet. com, custrelations@spicejet.com Reservations Toll Free: 1-800-180-3333 and 987-180-3333 Deputy General Managers NORTH Rahul Bhatkoti email: rahul.bhatkoti@spicejet.com SOUTH I. Sasikanth email: i.sasikanth@spicejet.com WEST Rajesh H Singh email: rajesh.singh@spicejet.com Regional Manager EAST Mitali Borgohain email: mitali.b@spicejet.com Agartala Station Manager: Rajesh Kumar Singh Address: Agartala Airport Email: rajesh.s@spicejet.com Ahmedabad Station Manager: Digvijay Wala Address: SVPI Airport

Email: Digvijay.wala@spicejet.com Bagdogra Station Manager: Mohd. Ayub Ali Address: Bagdogra Airport Email: mohd.ayub@spicejet.com Bangalore Station Manager: Kaustav Nath Address: Bengaluru International Airport, Devanahalli Email: Kaustav.nath@spicejet.com Chennai Station Manager: R. Ranjeev Address: Counter No. 8, Kamraj Domestic Terminal, Chennai Airport, Tirusulam Email: r.ranjeev@spicejet.com Coimbatore Station Manager: PS Shamon Address: Coimbatore Airport Email: shamon@spicejet.com Colombo Station In-charge: M Arun Address: Bandaranaike International Airport, Colombo, SriLanka Email: arun.m@spicejet.com Goa Station Manager: Naved Patel Address: Dabolim Airport, Dabolim Email: naved.patel@spicejet.com Guwahati Station Manager: Sagar Nath Das Address: LGBI International Airport, Borjhar Email: sagarnath.das@spicejet.com

Hyderabad Station Manager: Nelash Godara Address: Rajiv Gandhi International Airport, Shamshabad Email: nelash.godara@spicejet.com Jammu Station Manager: Deepak Koul Address: Jammu Airport, Satwari Chowk Email: deepak.koul@spicejet.com Jaipur Station Manager: Brijendra Sinsinwar Address: Sanganer Airport Email: brijendra.sinsinwar@spicejet. com Kathmandu Station Manager: Bhagwati Devi Address: Tribhuvan International Airport, Kathmandu,Nepal Email: bhagwati.devi@spicejet.com Kochi Station Manager: Vrushiket Bhise Address: Kochi Airport, Ernakulam Email: vrushiket.bhise@spicejet. com Kolkata Station Manager: Indranil Dutta Gupta Address: NSCBI Airport, Kolkata Email: indranil.dutta@spicejet.com Madurai Station Manager: VP Dipak Kumar Address: Madurai Airport, Madurai Email: vp.dipak@spicejet.com Mumbai

Station Manager: Rajesh Singh Address: Terminal-1B, Chhatrapati Shivaji International Airport, Vile Parle (E) Email: rajesh.singh@spicejet.com New Delhi Station Manager: Sumant Rautela Address: Terminal 1D, IGI Airport, Palam Email: sumant.rautela@spicejet.com Nagpur Station Manager: Keshav Moktali Address: Dr Ambedkar International Airport Email: keshav.moktali@spicejet.com Pune Station Manager: Feroz Sayyed Address: Civil Terminal, Lohegaon Airport Email: feroz.sayyed@spicejet.com Srinagar Station Manager: Irfan Hussain Kanth Address: Srinagar International Airport, Humhama Email: irfan.kanth@spicejet.com Varanasi Station Manager: Rajul Srivastava Address: Lal Bahadur Shastri Airport, Babatpur Email: rajul.srivastava@spicejet.com Vizag Station Manager:Attanur Prasad Address: AAI, Vizag Airport, Visakhapatnam Email: attanur.prasad@spicejet.com

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Spice Bites

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