Hello 6E Inflight Magazine - IndiGo Airline April 2022

117th Issue, Apr 2022 For in-flight reading only

The Journey of a thousand smiles

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Be it during a natural calamity or war, humanity has always relied on compassion to move forward and rebuild. It was compassion and our responsibility towards the nation that drove us to fly back over 7,500 Indians under 'Operation Ganga'. Thus, we dedicate the April 2022 issue of Hello 6E to the core human belief of solicitude, to make the world a better place for all!

'Love and compassion are necessities, not luxuries. Without them, humanity cannot survive!'

– Dalai Lama

In the Offbeat section, we focus on how travel can help build compassionate communities through sustainability of nature and society. Explore voluntourism in Spiti Valley, discover Kozhikode’s compassionate take, learn how

travellers are reviving forests at Auroville, and how Bhutan is offering a perfect blend of holidaying and spiritual wellness!

First Note

LaunchPad

In Skyline, come with us to serene Dharamshala, where kindness is a part of everyday life. In Downtown, we give you a glimpse of what makes Hanoi, Vietnam's bustling capital, such a happy place to be. And in Green Intentions, learn how the auto industry is moving towards a smarter, more sustainable and inclusive world.

Compassionately flying with #LetsIndiGo

IndiGo operated the largest number of flights among private airlines under the Indian government's Operation Ganga to safely bring back over 7,500 Indians from war-torn Ukraine.

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Contents April 2022

INDIGO Business Head Niraj Batra Brand & Content C Leekha customer.relations@goindigo.in PUBLISHER Maxposure Media Group CEO and Managing Director Prakash Johari Head Office | Maxposure Media Group India Pvt. Ltd. #TheAddress, Plot No. 62, Okhla Industrial Area, Phase III, New Delhi-110020, India Tel: + 91 11 4301 1111, Fax: +91 11 4301 1199 Advertising: info@maxposuremedia.com E-mail: indigoads@maxposuremedia.com INDIA OFFICES Bengaluru | 409, A Wing, 4th Floor, Mittal Towers, MG Road, Bengaluru-560001; Tel: +91 80 41510657 Mumbai | 506-508 Durga Chamber, Veera Desai Extension Road, Andheri (West), Mumbai- 400053; Tel: +91 9820463341 Chennai | Anitha Velusamy, +91 9840861133, anitha@maxposuremedia.com Zeenath Nisha, +91 7550036463, zeenath@maxposuremedia.com

117th Issue, Apr 2022 For in-flight reading only

The Journey of a thousand smiles

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Please sanitise your hands before and after reading me. We want you safe.

Cover The April issue of Hello 6E is an ode to compassion, which spreads love and smiles. On our cover is a man happily collecting lotus flowers, a familiar sight across Southeast Asia, including Vietnam!

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DownTown Traverse through the roads of the historic city of Hanoi

14 20 32 FirstRow

OffBeat

Skyline

Glimpses of domestic and international destinations of IndiGo network

Four unique experiences that blend compassion and the joys of travel

Experience the confluence of spirituality and nature at Dharamshala

70 Cool merchandise exclusively for IndiGo passengers

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6E Tiffin

Contents April 2022

ARAT

54 48 61 44 Vignette

38 TakeOff

Enjoy the rustic charms of India's first book village, Bhilar

Artistry

MyCity MyWay

Explore a few of India's indigenous arts and crafts at Nirona, Gujarat

How public art installations make the world a more vibrant place

Re-discovering Chennai in five ways

SCULPT YOUR PASSION INTO A CAREER

What Bollywood heartthrob Ranbir Kapoor thinks of Mumbai

Viewpoint

Atal Ranking of Institutions on Innovation Achievements (ARIIA) 2020

April 2022

Green Intentions

Take a sneak peek into the future of mobility

under

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CHOOSE MORE CHOOSE RIGHT

VADODARA, GUJARAT

SCULPT YOUR PASSION INTO A CAREER under

Atal Ranking of Institutions on Innovation Achievements (ARIIA) 2020

CHOOSE MORE CHOOSE RIGHT

OpenAir

around the world News from the world featuring interesting aspects of the world including travel, events/festivals, new book/film releases, and tech.

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paradise on Earth is what Kashmir is popularly known as, and the region's stunning natural landscape lives upto it.

At the recently organised OTM event in Mumbai, the Jammu Kashmir Tourism department promoted traditional tourist hubs and also highlighted rural tourism, by focussing on 80 villages, especially their cosy homestays.

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Tourism Australia

e it a photo-op with kangaroos or a drive down the scenic Great Ocean Road, Australia is perfect for a holiday! And with the ICC T20 Cricket World Cup scheduled to be held in Australia in October and November 2022, no wonder Indians are making a beeline for the land Down Under. The Australian High Commission in New Delhi recently said they are seeing a bounce back in Indian visitor visa requests, almost back to pre-pandemic numbers!

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April 2022

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c

ultural heritage of India is unparalleled and it becomes even richer when showcased against the backdrop of a grand monument. Enjoy the 10-day cultural extravaganza, Red Fort Festival - Bharat Bhagya Vidhata, on till April 3, at the Red Fort in the capital.

Catch spectacular shows of traditional dance forms from across India, contemporary performances and special activities for children.

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rama, cinema, gastronomy, street art, performing arts, photography, education, science and literature - the 4th edition of Bonjour India will include all this and more! To be held till November 2022, the extravaganza will travel to 19 Indian cities with a programme of 120 events, narrating the shared history of India and France.

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xtraordinary men and their extraordinary tales never fail to inspire. One such personality was veteran industrialist and Padma Bhushan awardee, the late Rahul Bajaj. Soon, the world will get an insight into his life and thoughts in the pages of his first authorised biography, Rahul Bajaj: An Extraordinary Life (published by Penguin Random House India). Grab your copy on any major e-commerce website.

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April 2022

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lamourous and intriguing is how most will describe Netflix period drama series Bridgerton. And now, the Lanesborough hotel in London is offering a taste of that elegance with its special afternoon tea! Created in partnership with Netflix, the limited-edition tea will pay homage to the Regency era and its high style.

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ailures and challenges can either demotivate or inspire a person. Peruvian climber Silvia Vasquez-Lavado spent a lifetime running away from trauma. Yet in spite of her private battles, she climbed many of the world's highest peaks, including Mt. Everest. The book, In The Shadow of the Mountain (Octopus Publishing), tells her story, and how, in 2016, she gathered six sexually-abused girls, and went on a life-changing expedition to the Everest Base Camp.

'Beauty and the Beast', 1991, Peter J. Hall, Concept art, watercolour, marker, and graphite on paper © Disney

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April 2022

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ovies and art have always interacted with each other.

One of the most spectacular examples is how Walt Disney productions have been inspired by artists.

See this come alive at the exhibition, 'Inspiring Walt Disney: The Animation of French Decorative Arts', being held at New York’s Metropolitan Museum of Art, from April 6 to October 16, 2022.

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elish an array of kebabs and sides at Shangri-La Bengaluru's Gourmet Kebab Fare at Ssaffron. Indulge in a melting pot of various kebabs, like kakori, bedki murgh tikka, kasundi fish tikka, paneer ke sooley, and more.

Don't miss the patthar ke kebab. Enjoy with sheermal, paan ice-cream and more. You can pair it all with do-it-yourself drinks!

u

niversal Music Group, one of the leaders in musicbased entertainment, has launched Def Jam India, a new label division within India and South Asia dedicated to representing the best hip-hop and rap talent from the region. For more than three decades, Def Jam Recordings has led and influenced the urban hip-hop culture around the world. And now they are in India as the domestic hip-hop culture grows exponentially! The label's first flagship artiste signings are popular rappers Dino James and Fotty Seven.

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April 2022

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ech and food have had a delicious union. Adding to it is Knosh, a foodtech platform that offers signature dishes from award-winning chefs at the customers' doorstep. Backed by chefs Hemant Oberoi and Ajay Chopra, it promises to serve curated, authentic speciality cuisine to all!

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63 63 13 63 63

FirstRow

A BIRD'S-EYE VIEW OF SOME DOMESTIC & INTERNATIONAL DESTINATIONS OF INDIGO

HISTORY CALLING

Images are for visual representation only

Check List

The historic city of Margão in Goa is considered to be the oldest city in Goa and is popularly known as the state's cultural capital.

INDIA

Best time to visit October to March & June to September

Goa

Currency Indian Rupee Explore more: www.goindigo.in/6eholidays

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GIFTING ZONE

April 2022

Le Souk by Amarya is an open-air bazaar that mirrors the tented stores and exotic articles of Moroccan bazaars. Shop for traditional handicrafts from the local flea market.

IndiGo to GOA www.goindigo.in

Map not to scale

FACT Goa is India's smallest state and unlike any other, is known for its endless beaches, stellar nightlife, eclectic seafood and worldheritage listed architecture.

GOA

ADVENTURE ZONE

Goa offers stunning experiences of marine life while scuba diving.

Explore colourful corals, wrecks from the pages of history and the enchanting underwater world.

INDIA

Map not to scale

Images are for visual representation only

Kerala

IndiGo to KOCHI www.goindigo.in

KOCHI Check List HISTORY CALLING

PLAN IT RIGHT

EAT RIGHT

Exclusively built facing the backwaters, Marine Drive offers charming and picturesque views. It is lined with shopping malls and fast food joints. It's a peaceful walkway with no traffic.

The Kerala Kathakali Centre aims to popularise the traditional art form of Kerala. Watch a dance show here, which are organised almost everyday.

John Abraham omelette, is named after the famous Bollywood actor from Kochi. It is an egg white omelette with mushrooms, sun-dried tomatoes, sunflower seeds and pesto served with toast.

Explore more: www.goindigo.in/6eholidays

FACT Called the 'Queen of the Arabian Sea', Kochi is today palpable with its trading community from different parts of India.

Best time to visit October to March

Currency Indian Rupee

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KATHMANDU NEPAL

Images are for visual representation only

Map not to scale

Kathmandu

IndiGo to KATHMANDU www.goindigo.in

Check List PLAN IT RIGHT

Boudhanath Stupa is known for its massive mandala, the largest in Nepal. The stupa was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1979.

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April 2022

EAT IT RIGHT

From a plate full of samay baji to the Nepali pizza known as chatamari– Nepali cuisine is known for its rich flavours. Use of Himalayan herbs makes the food more special.

GIFTING ZONE

Thamel is the place to go for ethnic handicrafts, beautiful handlooms, handmade organic products and fashionable winter wear.

It is a Wi-Fi zone.

FACT Kathmandu Durbar Square is the most remarkable legacy of Kathmandu's traditional architecture.

Best time to visit September to December

Currency Nepal Rupee

Images are for visual representation only

LEH INDIA IndiGo to LEH www.goindigo.in Map not to scale

FACT Some 30 km from Leh, witness the gravity defying Magnetic Hill pull your vehicles forward.

Best time to visit April to June

Currency Indian Rupee.

Ladakh

Check List PLAN IT RIGHT

EAT IT RIGHT

GIFTING ZONE

The majestic Leh Palace was built in the 17th century with the mighty mountains of Ladakh in its backdrop. Its rustic beauty continues to attract tourists from around the world.

The scrumptious taste of tingmo with mutton shapta will leave you in bliss. It is a flavoursome combination of steamed buns, tender muttons, local vegetables and spices.

Zanskar Arts is a must-visit for any tourist visiting Leh. Located in the main market of the city, the shop is known for its collection of handicrafts, apparel and shawls. Also, explore the Tibetan market.

Explore more: www.goindigo.in/6eholidays

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Jammu & Kashmir

IndiGo to SRINAGAR www.goindigo.in

SRINAGAR FACT Experience the unique floating market on Dal Lake, where shikaras loaded with vegetables, flowers, kahwa (Kashmiri tea), baked cookies, saffron and more float around.

Best time to visit April to October

Currency Indian Rupee

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April 2022

Check List PLAN IT RIGHT

HISTORY CALLING

SHOP IT RIGHT

The Indira Gandhi Memorial Tulip Garden is dubbed as the largest tulip garden in Asia. The best time to visit the Tulip garden is between Marchend and April.

Overlooking the Dal Lake, the majestic Pari Mahal atop the Zabarwan Mountain Range is a seven-terraced garden built as a library and residence for Mughal Prince Dara Shikoh in 1600s

Shop for oriental rugs in Srinagar that are handknotted. These exclusive Kashmiri carpets are woven either with pure wool or silk and are intricate and luxurious.

Explore more: www.goindigo.in/6eholidays

Images are for visual representation only

Map not to scale

INDIA

OffBeat

THE JOURNEY

TO CHANGE A LIFE Travel is life-altering in myriad ways.

Nevertheless, for a momentous and consequential transformation, the traveller must have an open heart. That is, a heart open to tolerance, empathy, appreciation and, ultimately, compassion for others and their cultures. So, here are a few ways you can travel to change lives, cuddle our world and learn to be compassionate.

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April 2022

Imagine a journey through some of the most spectacular landscapes in India, indulging in adventures of a lifetime and taking back not just memories but also grateful wishes of the local community! That's what Ecosphere, a social enterprise working in Spiti Valley, offers through its travel programmes. From safaris and treks that support access to healthcare and scholarships for children to specials like Greening the Desert, where one travels through Spiti and helps a family build a greenhouse to grow vegetables that are scarce in the region, every trip gives back to the society.

For more, spitiecosphere.com

Spiti Valley, Himachal Pradesh

Where: Himachal Pradesh.

Distance: Around 13-hr drive from Chandigrah airport.

When: For the summer experience, visit during March-June and for winters, OctoberFebruary is apt.

Look out for: Numerous highaltitude lakes like Dhankar Lake and Chandra Taal.

What more?

HIGHLIGHTS Try snow leopard tracking, volunteering in cafes or living like a local to help children's education. What's best is that all trips have Zero Carbon Footprints!

DID YOU KNOW? The wind-swept cold Himalayan desert valley of Spiti is a kaleidoscope of pristine landscapes marked with stoic Buddhist monasteries and quiet villages. It is home to Bara Shigri, one of the largest glaciers in India, and the popular Key Monastery.

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One of the most inclusive ways of travelling to Bhutan is with Druk Neykor. A nationwide trip to holy destinations like Punakha Dzong and Kyichu Lhakhang, Druk Neykor blends spiritual enhancement with cultural conservation for sustainable tourism.

Meditate, listen to spiritual discourses, attend workshops, immerse yourself in nature or learn to be compassionate.

You can also know about practical applications of compassion in business. For more, bhutan.travel

Bhutan

What more?

HIGHLIGHTS You can visit a local farmhouse in Paro and stay with the family.

You can also take a day's hike to the popular Tiger’s Nest monastery.

DID YOU KNOW? The Khoma village is famous for traditional textile weaving. This village is known throughout the country for its signature woven textile, the Kishuthara.

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April 2022

Where: Bhutan.

Distance: Thimpu and Paro are the two main cities.

When: March to May and September to November.

Look out for: You can visit Rinpung Dzong, Chele La Pass, Dochula Pass and Tashichho Dzong.

OffBeat

Want a holiday in a seaside paradise that lets you detox your body and soul?

Book yourself into Sadhana Forest, a reforestation project and a sustainable living community in Auroville near Puducherry.

Make friends with the thriving international community of volunteers, enjoy healthy homecooked meals and stay in nature-friendly traditional huts. The community lives off-grid, running on solar power and follows a minimum waste lifestyle! Once a barren wasteland, Sadhana Forest is now a thriving green expanse teeming with birds and animals! For more, sadhanaforest.org

Auroville, Tamil Nadu

Where: Auroville, on the outskirts of Puducherry.

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April 2022

Distance: Around 3.5 hours from Chennai.

When: October to March.

What more?

HIGHLIGHTS

In Puducherry, spend time exploring Sri Aurobindo Ashram, the beautiful beaches (Paradise being the most popular) and the quaint French Quarter!

Look out for: Enjoy a bike tour of Auroville or head out to Puducherry.

Where: Kozhikode, Kerala.

Distance: Fly to Kozhikode.

Kozhikode, Kerala

When: From October to February.

To best experience this ancient region, try to be a part of Compassionate Kozhikode, a unique project aimed at developing Kozhikode as a destination for experiential travellers seeking authentic, conscious and responsible experiences. The programme offers various platforms to participate in compassionate initiatives. One such is Operation Sulaimani, which ensures that no one in Kozhikode is denied food. More than 25 Sulaimani distribution centres offer coupons to be exchanged for a hearty meal in more than 100 restaurants. Or Freedom Cafe, run by volunteers, where you are not charged for your food. You can pay for another person's meal!

For more, compassionatekozhikode.in

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April 2022

Look out for: Gaze at the Zamorin era buildings and visit Kadalundi Bird Sanctuary.

What more?

HIGHLIGHTS

This much-awarded initiative is run by the district administration in partnership with private companies, hotels and restaurants.

DID YOU KNOW?

Vasco da Gama had docked at Kappad, near Kozhikode, centuries ago!

Coming home with IndiGo IndiGo safely brings back over 7,500 Indians from Ukraine In its mission to support the repatriation efforts from Ukraine, IndiGo brought back 7,629 Indian citizens across 35 flights between February 28 and March 11, 2022, from five cities - Bucharest, Budapest, Rzeszow, Suceava and Kosice. Indigo had established its base in Istanbul, and flew relatively shorter flights to the relevant airports.

material during their onward journey, while bringing back evacuees in the return leg via Istanbul. The passengers were comforted during their return travel with hot meals like dal chawal, rajma chawal, Maggi; fresh subs and sandwiches from Istanbul and a wide variety of snacks including nuts, cookies, chips, complemented by hot and cold beverages.

The airline operated the largest number of flights amongst private airlines as part of Operation Ganga commissioned by the Government of India. These missions were operated on A 321 aircraft with all safety precautions and most of these flights carried relief

The entire IndiGo team, which was part of Operation Ganga, felt pride and emotional during the operations and there were several hearttouching moments, wherein the crew went a step ahead to comfort the passengers being flown back home.

IndiGo operated the largest number of flights among private airlines under Indian government's Operation Ganga

DownTown

THE TIMELESS ALLURE OF HANOI

Café-lined boulevards, a distinct French flavour and thousands of years of history – the sublime beauty of Hanoi is sure to charm your senses.

Words Soumya Gayatri

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April 2022

Hanoi, the charming capital of Vietnam, is chock-full of ancient temples, French colonial mansions, café-lined avenues and modern skyscrapers.

Sprawling local markets rub shoulders with architectural masterpieces while beautiful lakes flank multi-tiered pagodas. Inside Hanoi’s Old Quarter, buzzing motorbikes nimbly manoeuvre around locals in traditional non las (conical hats). Ambling through the lively streets of Hanoi is like travelling through a temporal maze where the present effortlessly blends with the past.

Hanoi is one of the ancient capitals of the world. It has remained Vietnam's major political and cultural centre for more than a thousand years. When the Lý Dynasty set up its capital in Hanoi in the 11th century, little did the rulers know that they were creating a legacy that would live forever.

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When in Hanoi, you must begin your day at the vibrant Old Quarter filled with antique buildings.

In passing Visit Hanoi’s Old Quarter early in the morning when the sun bathes the buildings in an ethereal hue.

Spend an extra day and visit the picturesque limestone islands of Halong Bay, which is just a day's trip away.

Do take some time to revel in the beauty of the West Lake. Every summer, lotuses bloom covering the lake with their bright pink petals.

Today, Hanoi is a thriving metropolis that exudes grace with its atmospheric old town, endearing colonial facades and picture-perfect waterfronts.

IndiGo to HANOI www.goindigo.in

When in Hanoi, you must begin your day at the vibrant Old Quarter filled with antique buildings that display a fascinating mix of French, Chinese and Vietnamese architecture. A must-do here is to step into a traditional tube house and, Corinthian columns, curved balconies, the area's Ma May Street is home to many shuttered windows and gilded chandeliers. of the city’s oldest dwellings. The house at No. 87 Ma May Street beautifully recreates A quick walk from the Opera House the living space of old Hanoians and has will take you to the serene and relaxing become a popular address to showcase environs of Hoan Kiem Lake. In the middle typical tube house architecture. of the lake, you’ll see the historic Thap Rua or the Turtle Tower, a three-storeyed If you are a fan of French architecture, pagoda that was built in the 1880s. you will love a trip to Hanoi Opera House, a stunning monument and an impressive On a small islet in the northern end of Hoan vestige of Vietnam’s colonial past. Modeled Kiem Lake, sits the majestic Ngoc Son after Palais Garnier in Paris, the Opera Temple. Popularly known as the Temple House is an exceptional piece of neoof the Jade Mountain, this sacred shrine classical French architecture replete with is dedicated to General Tran Hung Dao (who defeated the Mongols in the 13th century), La To (patron saint of physicians) and the scholar Van Xuong.. The temple

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April 2022

The name Hanoi or Ha Noi literally translates to 'between two rivers'.

Hanoi gets its name from its strategic location within the delta of the mighty Red River of Vietnam.

Hanoi has been Vietnam’s capital for more than 1,000 years now.

is connected to the shore by an elegant scarlet bridge called Cau The Huc, which makes for a sublime photo op any time of the day.

Tall, narrow, and bright-coloured Hanoi’s tube-houses were built to use space efficiently and pay less tax, which was often charged by the width of the house.

Not very far away is the iconic Thang Long Imperial Citadel that was built by the Lý Dynasty in 1010 CE and remained a powerful administrative centre for more than eight centuries. The citadel, a UNESCO narrow, old-styled streets that form the World Heritage Site, is a spectacular heart of Hanoi. complex of 11th-century monuments that reflect a unique Red River Valley culture Each lane is named after the craft guild that with strong influences from China and once occupied it. For instance, you have erstwhile kingdom of Champa.

Hang Thung, which is the 'Street of Buckets' and Hang Bac, which is the 'Street of Silver'.

Visit the enchanting Temple of Literature, Even though most guilds have disappeared which was the site of Vietnam’s first today, these streets are still full of artists, public university. Nestled within a walled florists, lantern makers and handicraft compound filled with large trees and stores. manicured gardens, and surrounded by five courtyards, Hanoi’s Temple of Sign up for a culinary tour, attend a pottery Literature is a peaceful abyss that is home workshop or simply wander through the to imposing halls and sacred shrines. vintage streets of the Old Quarter and experience the magical allure of Hanoi, a As you walk down the Old Quarter spotting city that is exquisitely chic and timelessly monuments and tales from a historic past, elegant at the same time. be sure to notice the interesting maze of

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Skyline

SOUL-O-TRIP 32

April 2022

Go soul-searching or paragliding, escape urban stress with a vacation in serene Dharamshala, perched high in the Himalayas Words Namita S Kalla

There can be no doubt that a destination whose name translates into a 'pilgrim's rest-house' will offer nothing but peace and succour to your soul. That's the magic of the quaint town of Dharamshala, standing against the backdrop of the high Dhauladhar mountains and nestled amid dense forests. The second capital of Himachal Pradesh, Dharamshala, is not just a destination to be ticked off your bucket list. It's a spot of calmness where you stop for a while and let your worries drain away. Such is the magic of this town that even as you start the 18-km-long gradual uphill drive from Kangra, Dharamshala pulls at your heartstrings.

Divided in two halves, Kotwali Bazar and its surrounding markets make up Lower Dharamshala. A little higher up, making a dramatic transition, sits the township of Mcleodganj surrounded by thick pine, cedar and oak forests. Mcloedganj also serves as the capital of the Tibetan Government in exile.

Dharamshala and its suburbs, including Mcleodganj, Naddi, Kotwali Bazar, Dharamkot, Bhagsunag and Triund, offer a varied mix of experiences. Every few kilometres, the culture changes, transforming from vibrant Himachali to soothing Tibetan. The stunning landscape,

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Did you know?

The famous Gyuto Monastery is known for its Buddhist teachings and tantric meditation

Every summer, the Tibetan Institute of Performing Arts holds a 10-day festival to showcase and preserve Tibetan folk dance, songs and other art forms.

The Dharamshala cricket stadium is perched high in the Himalayas, against a backdrop of snowcapped peaks and surrounded by tall trees.

Don't miss the Dal Lake, located in the Tota Rani village of Kangra district.

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April 2022

the architectural elegance of the monasteries, the bustling local markets and Buddhist monks in their signature robes add to the charm of this serene hill station. But not just peace and quiet, Dharamshala is also known as a hub popularly referred to as Little Lhasa, for trekkers and offers several prime is vibrant with Buddhist prayer flags locations for paragliding. fluttering in the wind and stalls selling miniature prayer wheels and thangkas!

Calm thy senses Mcleodganj, the land of His Holiness Life in Mcleodganj revolves around the the 14th Dalai Lama, welcomes one private residence of the Dalai Lama into the world of soulfulness with and the Buddhist temple complex. eloquent monasteries that have been The Namgyal Monastery, the Nechung known to awaken a sense of selfMonastery and the Tsuglagkhang discovery in those who choose to Temple are a must-visit. invest time in spirituality. It was in the wake of the Tibetan uprising of 1959 that His Holiness escaped from Lhasa (Tibet), choosing Mcleodganj as home. The township,

The iconic St John in the Wilderness Church is worth a visit

Mcleodganj, popularly referred to as Little Lhasa, is vibrant with Buddhist prayer flags fluttering in the wind and stalls selling miniature prayer wheels and thangkas

There are several other tourist attractions nearby – the Gyuto Monastery, the Tsechokling Gompa and the Norbulingka Institute. The beauty of these edifices lies not only in the way they are designed and decorated – with elaborate frescos, plated statues and ornate interiors but also how they are built on elevated, sunny sites that offer exceptional views of sunrises and sunsets over the majestic snow-clad peaks of the Himalayas.

But Mcleodganj's colonial heritage is equally prominent, with churches and British-era buildings scattered around. A little away from the town centre, secluded in a deep forest, stands the striking St. John in the Wilderness Church. One of the oldest Anglican churches in the area, it was built in 1852 and is a mustvisit site.

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Dharamshala is ideal for easy treks and hikes, and the panoramic views of the surrounding mountains Mountain Magic After a day of monastery tours, enjoy lazy, long walks in the pleasant evenings. Keep an eye out for a dramatic rocky outcrop silhouetted against the clear blue sky or just find a spot to catch the last rays of the sun in peace.

Dharamshala is also ideal for easy treks and hikes, and the views of the surrounding mountains are unparalleled. Some of the most exciting treks here are Kareri Lake trek, Triund trek and Indrahar Pass trek. The trek to Triund, a gorgeous grassy alpine meadow, is among the most popular – both for its welldemarcated trails through the forest and the panoramic view of the Kangra valley. Besides, it is also the shortest commencing from the

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Galu Devi temple (barely two kilometres on foot from the main square in Mcleodganj). You can enjoy night camping under the stars at the top of Triund peak.

Momos and more When in Dharamshala, do not miss the delightful duo of momos and Maggi. The town has several popular cafes, each offering picture-postcard views and fingerlicking food. For those with a sweet tooth, the German Bakery offers delectable ice cream and mouthwatering Bhagsu cake. The cake, with chocolate spread over a crunchy crust, is a must-have.

peony tea and oolong tea. The Kangra teas are a must-try.

Shopping spree Dharamshala is also a shopper's paradise, with big and small markets offering everything from handicrafts, jewellery, idols of Lord Buddha and Buddhist singing bowls to rugs, carpets, and trendy garments. Keep time in hand to explore the popular Kotwali Bazaar and Jogibara Road.

On your way out of town, do not forget to pick up the prayer flags that will remind you of the serenity of this gem in the hills!

Try momos at the Tibet Kitchen, an oven-fresh pizza at Carpe Diem or a creamy pasta at Nick’s Italian. Enjoy a warm cup of tea of your choice from a wide variety available here - ranging from the black orthodox tea, saffron tea, green tea to white

Paragliding excursions in Dharamshala usually take place in Bir, a small town around 50 km away

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TakeOff NowBoarding

Bhilar, India's first book village, is an ideal break for bibliophiles but its rustic charms are refreshing even if you don't want to turn pages.

Words Shruti Kothari Tomar

Of Shakespeare and strawberries 38

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Getting there Take the highway from Pune (around 100 km away) and switch to Wai-Surur Road. You cross Panchgani, Bhilar is around 7 km ahead on the PanchganiMahabaleshwar Road.

Where to stay: The cosy homestays are a good option.

Snuggled between the popular tourist hotspots Panchgani and Mahabaleshwar in Maharashtra, lies Bhilar, a picturesque and charming hamlet wrapped in strawberry farms and vineyards.

With around 3,000 inhabitants, who earn their livelihood primarily from strawberry farming, almost every house in this village has strawberries growing in the backyard, most of which is traded in nearby markets.

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But we’re not here for the strawberries, instead we’re seeking Shakespeare! A few years ago, Bhilar was turned into Pustakaanch Gaav or a Book Village, fashioned along the lines of Hay-on-Wye, the Welsh town, the UK, best known for its numerous bookstores, libraries and literary festivals.

an array of books on history and the brave feats of the iconic Maratha monarch. Yet another abode, with comic strips and doll-like figures on its walls, houses children’s literature, quite aptly. An artists’ collective called Swatva has painted the village homes with these lively murals.

On a pleasant spring weekend, heeding a friend's advice, I start from Pune to explore this unique village. The highway, winding through a hilly terrain marked by waterfalls and a million shades of green, leads to this quaint destination, and I realise that even without its unique tag, Bhilar is apt for an idyllic weekend break, close to nature.

To begin your literary stroll, pick up a map to guide you to the homes and their resident genres. As I walk from house to house, I get to touch upon and browse through a variety of topics, and I am overwhelmed by the permeative sense of community that exists here.

Signboards announce I have arrived and then the houses start appearing – vividly painted, depicting the genre of literature they offer. A house whose exterior displays images of forts and Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, is home to

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Bhilar is a community-driven undertaking and is not focussed on booksellers. The villagers have opened up their homes (around 35 of them) and turned them into mini-libraries that exhibit the books. Minilibraries have been set up at public places, temples, residences and schools around

The idea The idea was proposed by Rajya Marathi Vikas Sanstha and former Maharashtra education minister Vinod Tawde in 2017. Soon, the state may get more such villages.

Another book-stop

Images: booksom.com

IndiGo to PUNE www.goindigo.in

Last year, Perumkulam, a village in Kerala’s Kollam district, was declared a Pusthaka Gramam (village of books).

Other than reading pleasure, the village is a serene rural tourism option with rolling paddy fields and bountiful orchards.

the village. These libraries offer around 30,000 books in Marathi and English for readers to read and research from, at no cost. This variety of books guarantees that readers will find something that will appeal to their literary choice. reading - there are well-furnished reading rooms where one can spend hours engrossed Villagers say the main aim of this initiative in a book. The only condition being that is to infuse the joy of reading in the young you have to return the book at the end of and old alike while preserving and promoting the day. From shelves to display the books the literature and heritage of Maharashtra. to comfortable bean bags to lounge in, no The entire belt surrounding Bhilar has been stone has been left unturned to make Bhilar the birthplace of brave warriors, exceptional a must-visit for all bibliophiles. I spot a family poets and talented story tellers. Thus, and a group of children comfortably lost in a by offering these gems of history to the world of words and I can't think of a better public at large, Bhilar is immortalising the option for a family break. As for me, I spend extraordinary tales that emanate from here. two days feasting on books, a bucolic life and strawberries!

All you need to do is walk into these libraries, browse to your heart’s content, pick a book, find a quiet corner and drown in the pages. The residents go about their daily chores, respecting a reader's privacy!

Just keep in mind their privacy too. The village encourages

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DuelAction

Duel Action

Fasten your seat belts as we take you on a 360-degree ride through two IndiGo destinations. Standing tall in the two secondary colours of IndiGo, there’s Kolkata, West Bengal, in one corner and Dhaka, Bangladesh, in another.

KOLKATA

DHAKA Historic lanes

While Victoria Memorial and Howrah Bridge are always popular, the next time you are in Kolkata don't miss Belur Math. Established by Swami Vivekanand on the outskirts of the city, it serves as a pilgrimage site and the headquarters of Ramakrishna Math and Mission.

Liberation War Museum in Dhaka commemorates the Bangladesh Liberation War that led to the independence of Bangladesh from Pakistan in 1971. Its galleries cover the early history of Bangladesh and includes the training and operations of the Mukti Bahini.

The foodie tales From the traditional kosha-mangsho (mutton gravy) and fish kobiraji (a deep-fried fish dish) to mochar ghonto (a preparation of banana blossoms) Kolkata is a true food lover's paradise.

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Biriyani with a glass of borhani (yogurt-based drink) is a must-have food in Dhaka. Several types of kebabs at Kazi Alauddin Road in old Dhaka offer a delightful experience.

One should not miss hilsa curry while in Dhaka.

Bibikhana pitha (steamed cake) is a traditional dessert popular here.

IndiGo to Kolkata and Kuala Lumpur www.goindigo.in

Shoppers' delight Traditional Jamdani silk sarees, brass, leather, bamboo products, ceramics, jewellery and the famous pink pearls are the best shopping articles from Dhaka.

The Mouchak Market in the Malibagh area is known for chunky and brightly-coloured jewellery.

A haven for bibliophiles, College Street, popularly called Boi Para, is one of the largest book markets in Asia and is regarded as the largest secondhand book market in the world. Pick up some rare volumes and editions at throwaway prices here.

Romantic tours

Rabindra Sarobar Lake is a quiet haven surrounded by lush greenery. In winter, this place is home to several migratory birds. The lakeside walkways are perfect for a romantic stroll. The lake also offers boating facilities.

Take a quiet saunter with your partner through Old Dhaka or Puran Dhaka and revel in the old French heritage buildings. The elaborate rustic buildings offer an insight into the history of this bustling city.

End your day with a sunset stroll along the boat docks.

For nature lovers A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Sundarbans is a part of the world's largest delta, formed by the mighty rivers Ganga, Brahmaputra and Meghna. The biggest draw here is the royal Bengal tiger. Go for a safari and explore one of world's largest mangrove forests.

Baldha Garden in the old part of Dhaka is a green oasis that houses a wide variety of plants, flowers and shrubs of rare species. The picturesque garden was established by the late Narendra Narayan Roy Chaudhury.

Recommendation: While in Kolkata, do not miss its sweets like rasogolla and the sandesh.

In Dhaka, you might not want to miss out on gorging delicious dishes like halim and seekh kebab with luchi.

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MyCity MyWay

'Mumbai is an emotion' Calling himself a true-blue Mumbaikar, actor Ranbir Kapoor takes us on a spin around the dream city Words Aarti Kapur Singh

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RANBIR KAPOOR

He could be the poster boy for the city of dreams - Mumbai. Not only because Ranbir Kapoor's family was perhaps the first dynasty that ruled over the film industry but because, despite being a well-travelled person, Mumbai is the place he raves about the most.

"I love travelling if it is for a holiday because my work doesn’t allow me to enjoy a destination the way it’s meant to be enjoyed. For films like Rockstar, Tamasha, Bachna Ae Haseeno, work was also one big party because it allowed me to explore a lot of Europe - especially Prague, Venice and Puglia. I’m more of a beach bum, so you’ll find me in Seychelles, on the Australian coast or in Mauritius. But no matter where I go, Mumbai will always be more than just my home - it’s where I'm rooted!" asserts Ranbir Kapoor.

Mumbai love The actor's love for Mumbai is not restricted to just his native place, it is more visceral and philosophical. Talking about his connect with the city, Kapoor says, "Most people call Mumbai 'the city that never sleeps'. I think it is more like the city that never sleeps because it helps you dream and fulfil those dreams. Wherever I may travel, I always yearn to come back to Mumbai - my janmabhoomi and my karmabhoomi!'"

Kapoor is a paparazzi favourite as is evident from the innumerable pictures of him being 'spotted' at the airport and also hip and happening places in the city. "But it is not just these places I frequent!" laughs Kapoor, adding, "I love the beach where I go for my runs early in the morning or play football with my buddies. These are some quintessentially Mumbai experiences that you cannot enjoy elsewhere!"

Tasting the Flavours Coming from a family of gastronomes, Kapoor insists that "Mumbai has more variety than one has tastebuds!" Little wonder that he is often spotted at his favourite eateries, which range from five-star restaurants to even roadside cafes. "When I went abroad to study, I carried a lot of canned Indian food. You can have firangi khana for three or four days; after that you crave Indian food.

Whenever mom or anyone else was visiting I would only ask them to bring my favourite foods from here," says the actor.

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actor

briefing Foodie memories

Mumbai

"Holidays at my dadi’s house were always special — probably even more than trips abroad.

For us kids, it meant non-stop pampering and eating. I grew up on the paya from her kitchen. I still love it," says the actor. "My grandfather was a legendary host and when we kids visited, he used to bundle us up in his car and take us on a day of eating - starting with South Indian, which was close to his house at Chembur and ice creams at Haji Ali to whatever we wanted. He would even pack the best homemade cookies and chocolates when we had to go back home. I think he is the reason why I associate Mumbai with satisfaction - this city somehow fulfils a hunger!" says Kapoor.

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Must-eat in Mumbai

Experience Mumbai with me You must experience the sunrise at Gateway of India and sunset at Colaba Causeway. You will often see me on my morning jog at Juhu Beach or playing football in the same neighbourhood, especially after it rains. I love taking my bike for a spin along Bandra Bandstand and one experience that I miss a lot is attending the Sunday Mass at Mount Mary's Church in Bandra.

April 2022

For the best seafood in town, I always head to either Mizu or Mahesh Lunch Home. For any new-comer to the city, I will recommend trying the kala khatta at Girgaum Chowpatty.

Shop with Ranbir Curios and vintage film posters from Chor Bazaar, patisserie and baked goodies from anywhere in town and designer clothes from South Mumbai

Fly with us to Mumbai to catch the IPL 2022 league matches being held across the City of Dreams and Pune.

Fav Filmi sites If you are a film freak and are in Mumbai, you must not miss these spots: Jalsa - Amitabh Bachchan's bungalow Mannat - Shah Rukh Khan's Bungalow RK Studios Mehboob Studios Versova café stretch

Artistry

Crafting a heritage Tucked away in the interiors of Gujarat lies the village of Nirona. Although it is off the popular tourist radar, this quaint village is the heart and hub of a few of India's indigenous arts and crafts, some dating back several centuries.

Words Aastha Maheshwari & Totini Banerjee

It is a form of painting, yet its creation requires neither the use of a paint-brush nor paint. Its beauty rests on the dexterity of a metal stylus and the artist's nimble fingers. It bears resemblance to the craft of embroidery but the khaka (layout or blueprint), thread and needle are not required for its rendition. It is the magical rogan, a 300-year-old craft that once flourished in the Kutch region of Gujarat and today is practised by one artisan family residing in the quaint village of Nirona, located about 40 km from Bhuj.

Not just rogan art, Nirona is also home to lacquer art and the craft of copper bell making – three of the country’s indigenous arts and crafts. Nirona is a village where artistry is not just a family heirloom but is also one of the primary sources of livelihood.

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THE ART OF THE OIL Creating embroidery-like patterns with a coloured castor oil mix on cloth by hand – rogan is a craft like no other and the Khatri family residing in Nirona is its only surviving custodian. Headed by Abdul Gafur Khatri, a Padma Shri awardee (2019) and recipient of the National Award (1997), the family has been continuing this centuries-old tradition for eight generations. Not just that, the family welcomes visitors wanting to learn about the art form and even offers a demonstration.

Rogan is as intricate as it is painstaking, the preparation itself being a long-drawn process. Castor oil, which forms the base of the paint, is heated over fire for several hours until it takes a honey-like texture. Crushed pigments are then mixed in it to create the colour. A metal stylus is dipped into the paint and is swirled on the palm to create heat and thin out the paint. The patterns are outlined on one half of a piece of fabric by the thin paint strands freehand. Once the design is complete, the other half is folded over it and held for about five minutes.

Since the paint is sticky in texture it transfers easily, creating a mirror image on the entire piece of fabric. The end result is exclusive to say the least. While smaller pieces of fabric take five days to finish, elaborate ones can take up to two years!

The craft received a new lease of life when Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi presented a piece of rogan art titled ‘Tree of Life’ to former President of the United States Barack Obama in 2014.

Believed to have arrived in India from Persia (rogan means oil-based in Persian) almost 300 years ago, rogan was once common on ceremonial garments, especially trousseaus, and such domestic objects as bed sheets and tablecloths, among others. Today, it is sought-after for sarees and intricate home decor pieces.

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Castor oil, which forms the base of the paint used in rogan, is heated for several hours till it gets a honey-like texture.

THE SOUND OF MUSIC If ghantadi (as bells are locally referred to in Kutch) could speak, they would narrate stories of Haji Saddiq, a deft copper bell maker. For inquisitive tourists, he happily presents a demonstration of creating a bell from scratch – chipping and hammering metal pieces into dainty bells that emit all the seven musical notes.

Like rogan, this craft is also handed down generations.

It is both an assiduous and rigorous process, and is practised by all members of the family. The initial process of moulding the various parts of the bell is done by the men manually. The main structure at this stage, however, does not emit any sound. This is followed by rolling the bells in mud, which is done by the women.

The mud imparts a distinct shade to the bell, which is then placed in a kiln. With the final hammering of the bells after being taken out from the kiln, mellifluous sounds begin to emit.

The primary occupation of the Lohar community residing in Nirona and the neighbouring village of Jura, the craft of bell making is believed to be over several centuries old and these bells were originally used by

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While you are there

There are several places of tourist interest near Nirona. One is the Sharad Bagh Palace, which boasts an eclectic museum collection.

This graceful Italianate palace, built in 1867, was the abode of the last king of Kutch, Madansingh.

Kutch Museum is Gujarat’s oldest museum. Learn about the region's history and culture at this museum founded by Maharao Khengarji in 1877.

The Bharatiya Sanskruti Darshan Museum offers displays on culture, including reconstructed Rabari bhungas (mud-andmirrorwork huts).

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herdsmen to locate the cattle herds. Today, they adorn homes and temples.

A DASH OF COLOURS In the far-end of Nirona, you will come across groups of ladies selling such wooden utensils as rolling pins and spatulas along with toys and storage containers all of which are embellished in vibrant lacquer. These colourful patterns and designs are called lacquer art, which is practiced by Wada, a semi-nomadic tribe of the village.

A kind of wax obtained from the local rhus tree, lacquer is blended with pigments and applied on various objects to make them shine like a mirror! The colours tend to lose their sheen with time but a dab of oil, preferably groundnut, will bring it back to life.

Nirona might not feature prominently in the travel bucket lists of many but it is frequented by historians, art and design students, and admirers of Indian craft traditions. And gauging by with the way these artisans are catering to the aesthetics of the modern customer while safeguarding the core essence of their tradition – it can be safely concluded that the artistic heritage in this quaint little village will only flourish in the days ahead.

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Vignette

Italian sculptor and former actor Lorenzo Quinn's 'Building Bridges' in Venice propagates the message of peace and unity.

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Artsy

Art's Around Me Public art is much more than the expression of an artist's idea. It interacts with its surroundings to create a new world. We bring you spectacular open-air art installations from across the world.

The beautiful elephant sculptures in Vietnam's Phu Quoc Islands were showcased at Epizode, an art and music festival.

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Another work by Quinn in Venice, 'Support', beautifully talks about global warming and rising water levels in oceans.

Prague's iconic 'London Booster' by Czech sculptor David Cerny was created to inspire the Czech Republic Olympic Team ahead of the 2012 London Olympics.

The Rock Garden of Chandigarh

by Nek Chand spanning over 40 acre, is filled with sculptures made from industrial and home waste. Its recycled ceramic sculptures are very popular.

Take a walk through London to witness Scottish sculptor and installation artist David Mach's 'Out of Order', with the city's iconic red telephone boxes, giving the illusion of a domino effect.

The 'Cadillac Ranch' in Texas, USA, built in 1974, was a brainchild of American millionaire and art aficionado Stanley Marsh 3.

It adds a splash of colour to the desert.

The magnificent sculptures of 'Museo Atlantico', a spectacular underwater museum, in Lanzarote, Spain.

Chicago's 'Crown Fountain' project includes two video projection towers that reflect faces of citizens to create a fun illusion.

To refer to the passenger charter introduced by the Ministry of Civil Aviation stating your rights, please contact our crew.

Shades on or off?

Believe it or not, your window shades play an important role in ensuring your safety. Here's how: 1. Keeping your window shades up during takeoff/ landing helps the cabin crew quickly assess the situation outside and form an exit plan in case of an unforeseen circumstance.

2. Once the doors are opened upon arrival, the cabin crew may ask you to close the window shades to maintain the cabin temperature and ensure your comfort and safety.

Please follow your cabin crew’s instructions for a safe flight.

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

JA Z Z DAY April 30, 2022

Love, life and all that Jazz!

Let's take a moment to celebrate the beautiful melodies that continue to unite us. Established by the UN in 2011, the International Jazz Day is a celebration of the musical genre that is referred to as a 'rhythm of life'. This day celebrates the virtues of Jazz as a force for peace and unity. Take a day and enjoy the music that continues to bring different cultures together.

Ways 5 Chennai

One Place

Explore Chennai - once a colonial power, now a city of vibrant coasts.

Viewpoint

IndiGo to Chennai. www.goindigo.in

FORT ST. GEORGE

HISTORY

A colonial relic, Fort St. George was once a major stronghold of the British East India Company. Today, it houses the State Legislature and the Secretariat. Visit St George Museum, which displays numerous antiquities, including uniforms of British Army officers.

GOVERNMENT MUSEUM

ST MARY’S CHURCH

The iconic St. Mary's Church is one of the oldest Anglican churches in India. Built in the 17th century, its breathtaking architecture continues to attract hundreds of tourists to the city.

The church was once visited by Queen Elizabeth II and the Duke of Edinburgh.

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ADVENTURE

MARINA BEACH

Take a dip in the Bay of Bengal at the Marina Beach.

Dubbed as the pride of Chennai it is the second-longest beach in the world. Enjoy local cuisines while walking down the sandy beach with the relaxing view of the sunset in the backdrop.

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Established in 1851, the Government Museum is the second-oldest museum in India.

Its beautiful rustic architecture continues to mesmerise tourists. It boasts six independent buildings and 46 galleries.

AN EVENING FIESTA

A plethora of activities are waiting for you at Go Xtreme Paintball and Adventure Zone.

Select from a range of activities, including paintball, body zorbing and human foosball.

The zone is almost 20 km away from the Marina Beach.

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HERITAGE

VALLUVAR KOTTAM

The intricately designed Valluvar Kottam continues to leave its visitors in awe. Built in 1976, the memorial was built in honour of the renowned Tamil poet, Thiruvalluvar. The memorial was created with over 3000 stone blocks and and its architectural pattern resembles that of a temple chariot (39 m high).

PONNUSAMY HOTEL, ROYAPETTAH

One of the most iconic restaurants in Chennai, it offers you the best of Chettinad cuisine. Its mutton kolu and liver fry are popular among its patrons.

VIVEKANANDA HOUSE

The iconic house that once hosted the revered Swami Vivekanand as a guest in 1897 is now a museum dedicated to him. It uses state-of-theart technology like Augmented Reality to enhance the experience of its visitors.

PHEONIX MARKET CITY

For the modern-day fashionista, the mall is the perfect destination to shop. It is home to some of the premier shopping brands, fast food joints and restaurants.

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SHOPPING

FOOD

T NAGAR

For shopaholics visiting the city, T Nagar is the perfect destination for budget shopping. Its wide array of saree and jewellery shops buzzing with excited shoppers, is a common scene.

CHAMIERS CAFÉ, RA PURAM

Have a taste of Chennai's colonial past at this beautiful quaint cafe. Its rich breakfast menu ranging from the classic American breakfast to the complete British breakfast will leave you in delight.

To satiate your sugar craving, you can finish off your meal with a tasty lemon tart.

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Green Intentions

THE FUTURE OF

MOBILITY Air taxis and hyperloops are no longer science fiction. They are already here. We look at the future of mobility and how it can be made more sustainable and even compassionate

By Kunal

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April 2022

‘Mobility is one of the foundations of our prosperity.’ Truer words have never been spoken, at least in terms of mobility. It was the invention of the humble wheel that changed the course of civilisations and trade in the old days. And now, as we head towards the future, it is about time that the wheel was reinvented.

Mobility today is cleaner and much more complex than it has ever been! But there is a long way to go before the venerable internal combustion engine enters its swan song years. The immediate challenges that future mobility technologies need to address is congestion, road safety, climate change and pollution.

Most forms of future mobility technology follow BCG’s CASE Logic – Connected, Autonomous, Shared Mobility and Electric vehicles. To this, we can add sustainability as another pillar. Many countries around the world, including India, already have

some great examples of passenger vehicles that are connected and electric.

At the same time, there are a handful of vehicles that could be called semiautonomous. Here's a glimpse of what future mobility solutions may look like.

Urban Air Mobility Perhaps the most exciting form of future mobility solutions, flying cars are closer to becoming a reality than ever before!

Billions of dollars are being poured into advanced air mobility and start-ups like Volocopter, Joby Aviation and Wisk have already begun trials of VTOL (vertical take-off and landing) air taxis. These air taxis run on electricity, have a seating capacity of four to six passengers and can be a big step in reducing congestion and commute time. The outlook seems promising too. LEK Consulting, a global strategy consulting firm, is of the opinion that air mobility could account for over 50 per cent of taxi or shared journeys by

Volocopter's all-electric VoloCity eVTOL aircraft is eventually expected to fly autonomously

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Mobility for all In India, the specially abled lose out on many opportunities in life due to mobility challenges and the mediocre, one-size-fits-all wheelchairs that are available. However, a Chennai-based startup, NeoMotion, is transforming this scenario, and enabling the specially abled better and smarter choices of personalised transportation.

They started with the NeoFly, a personalised wheelchair designed to enhance health and lifestyle. It is faster and more ergonomic. Then came NeoBolt, a motor-powered clip-on that converts NeoFly into a safe, roadworthy vehicle.

It can be easily attached to the wheelchair and reaches a maximum speed of 25 kmph, and travels up to 30 km per battery charge. It can also be used on uneven terrains – a perfect example of compassionate mobility!

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April 2022

2040. Well, I wouldn’t mind an air taxi picking me up from the roof of my house dropping me off at work or at a mall in the blink of an eye. Rush hour jams will be a thing of the past!

Hyperloop Travel Elon Musk, the most popular iconoclast in recent times, proposed the concept of hyperloops in 2013.

The basic idea is that pressurised passenger pods will be designed to move at high speeds in sealed, vacuumed tubes. In ideal conditions, the pods in a hyperloop system can travel at speeds of up to 1,223 kmph, which is faster than an average commercial airliner. The hyperloop will also make use of magnetic levitation technology along with being climate

A Virgin Hyperloop XP-2 pod Hyperloop India Richard Branson’s Virgin Hyperloop has signed MoUs with Maharashtra to develop the Pune-Mumbai Hyperloop project, which will have a travel time of 35 minutes between the two cities and forecast suggests that the project has the potential to generate up to $36 billion in socio-economic benefits! Similarly, Virgin also signed an MoU with Karnataka, for a feasibility study of commissioning an Hyperloop project in an around the city of Bengaluru.

In 2020, Virgin Hyperloop conducted its first ultra-fast transportation pod with two executives - Josh Giegel and Sara Luchian.

neutral. Richard Branson’s Virgin Hyperloop has been making test runs in California, the United State of America, with human passengers and while there’s models already on sale, companies still a range of testing to be done, like Mahindra and Hyundai have hyperloops, as a means of mass announced an EV blitz. Such transportation, is something to luxury car manufacturers as Audi, look forward to as future means of BMW, Mercedes-Benz, Jaguar mobility. and even Volvo have many fullyelectric models on sale or are ready to launch new models.

Electric Vehicles Similarly, Ather Energy, Hero The advent of electric vehicles (EV) Electric and Okinawa are ruling has already begun! India, too, has a the roost when it comes to electric decent number of passenger cars two-wheelers.

Start-ups like that run on electricity. The cost Ola Electric, Simple Energy, Tork of developing and manufacturing Motors and Ultraviolette have electric battery technology is also showcased their products in reducing universally as economies the country. If someone says that of scale grow and more money is the future is electric, you better poured into R&D. believe them!

While Tata Motors is leading the EV race in India with multiple affordable

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Corporate Social Responsibility - IndiGoReach

Towards Inclusive Living Every year, April 2 is marked as the World Autism Awareness Day and April, as the World Autism Month.

This year‘s observance will address inclusive education for children affected by autism.

This is the time when organisations working for individuals with autism take special initiatives to spread awareness on research, diagnoses, treatment, and acceptance of people affected by autism, so that they can lead meaningful lives as an integral part of society.

We, at IndiGoReach, are proud of our partnership with Tamana, a not-for-profit organisation. This partnership has helped us support the growth and development of children with autism by enhancing their learning abilities through various online and offline interactions.

The project also provides counselling support to their parents and guardians so that they can better understand the child’s needs. Such opportunities have led to personal growth and development of the children along with their families as they continue to learn, each day!

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Products will be delivered to your doorstep within

5-7 days*

Merchandise partner All product images are for illustrative purposes only and may differ from the actual product. All products are subject to availability and may be withdrawn at any time. In the event of any queries, clarifications, or complaints with respect to your purchases, please contact AVA Merchandising Solutions Private Limited at info@avamerchandising.in You may also call the dedicated helpline on +91 8826052874 from Monday to Saturday between 9:30 a.m. and 6 p.m. IndiGo shall have no liability in relation to the quality or merchantability of the products. All products and purchases may be subject to further terms and conditions as may be issued by any partnering agency or third party, as may be applicable. *Orders placed under containment zones may get cancelled, as per local regulations.

To the extent any information is provided in respect of any product, such information is on an ‘as is where is basis’, as provided to IndiGo by the supplier/manufacturer of such product.

Shop using your 6E Rewards Credit Card and earn additional 10% 6E Rewards

*T&C apply

6E Exclusive

Cool merchandise exclusively for IndiGo passengers

Track your time & health » BP Monitor;Heart Rate Monitor » 3 Clock interface mode » Pedometer facility » Sleep monitor

41%

» Messaging & Call notification

Discount

» Sports activity Mode » Measures SPO2 level » Remote camera control » Anti lost Feature

S

6 MONTH

» Sedentary alarm feature

M.R.P.

Contains 1 smart watch

Hottech Smart watch-P11

`3790

IndiGo Price

`2240

Be my travel partner » 4 wheeler trolley » Telescopic channel trolley » Pad lock facility available

50%

» Ample space for storage

Discount

» Quick access pocket at front » Top handle for easy carrying » Name tag at backs THS

12 MON

Contains 1 trolley bag

Herman Hansen 20 Inch (51cm) Trolley

M.R.P.

`8990

IndiGo Price

`4490

Steps to purchase:

Buy products at dealsbyava.com or WhatsApp 'AVA'

63 63 13 63 63

Pay and get products delivered at your doorstep

Shop using your 6E Rewards Credit Card and earn additional 10% 6E Rewards

70

April 2022

*T&C apply

Let's drink to that » 3 whiskey glasses, a peg measurer, a hip flask, and an opener » Antique leather finish with Gold plated fittings » Lop handle for easy carrying » Comes with Attractive Gifting Box packaging » Material:- MDF & Leatherite Contains 1 whiskey case with 3 Glasses & 3 accessories

Whiskey Case M.R.P.

`4990

IndiGo Price

`2500

50%

Discount

Make notes » Pressure-sensitive screen to create thick and thin lines » One-touch button to erase » Durable case and recessed screen » Safe for school, travel and home use Contains 1 Ruffpad

Hottech Ruffpad 9 Inch ( 23 cm) M.R.P.

70%

Discount

IndiGo Price

`2490 `750

THS

06 MON

Steps to purchase:

Buy products at dealsbyava.com or WhatsApp 'AVA'

63 63 13 63 63

Pay and get products delivered at your doorstep

Shop using your 6E Rewards Credit Card and earn additional 10% 6E Rewards

*T&C apply

71

6E Exclusive

Cool merchandise exclusively for IndiGo passengers

Two to tango » Rose Gold strap & Dial » Anti Rust & Anti Corrosion Feature » Water resistant » Rotating Dial

50%

» IPR Plating

Discount

» Magnetic Strap feature » Comes with Rose Gold Bangle » AD stones used on Bangle » Bangle made of pure brass

THS

12 MON

» Mitsubishi Battery Contains 1 Watch & Bracelet

Herman Hansen Ladies Watch with Bracelet

M.R.P.

IndiGo Price

`3990 `1990

Black beauty » Anti Rust & Anti corrosion feature » Date feature » Water resistant » Watch Dial made of alloy » Magnetic strap » Mitsubishi Battery used in watch » Beautiful box enhances the overall look of watch set

66%

Discount Contains 1 Gents Watch

Herman Hansen Gents Watch Black

M.R.P.

THS

IndiGo Price

12 MON

`3790 `1299

Steps to purchase:

Buy products at dealsbyava.com or WhatsApp 'AVA'

63 63 13 63 63

Pay and get products delivered at your doorstep

Shop using your 6E Rewards Credit Card and earn additional 10% 6E Rewards

72

April 2022

*T&C apply

Designed to fit » Touch-enabled earpods

S

6 MONTH

» Portable charging case » Crisp and clear sound quality » Lightweight earbuds for a comfortable fit » Dual microphones to talk » Can activate Siri » 3-4 hours of music time » 1 hour charge time; 72-hour standby time » Compatible with all Bluetooth-enabled devices Contains 1 Bluetooth Earpods

Hottech Bluetooth Earpods with Cover

M.R.P.

`3990

IndiGo Price

`1650

59%

Discount

Charge your senses » High Capacity 15,000 mAh battery » Stainless steel shell » 2.1A Output » Fast Charging & Recharging » LED Capacity Indicator » High Efficiency Conversion System » Dual Output (Type C & micro USB); contains Micro USB cable THS

06 MON

» Compatible with phones, tablets, cameras & iPods » Universal Compatible

Contains 1 powerbank with cable

Hottech 15000 mAh Powerbank

M.R.P.

`3990

IndiGo Price

`1490

63%

Discount

Steps to purchase:

Buy products at dealsbyava.com or WhatsApp 'AVA'

63 63 13 63 63

Pay and get products delivered at your doorstep

Shop using your 6E Rewards Credit Card and earn additional 10% 6E Rewards

*T&C apply

73

Cool merchandise exclusively for IndiGo passengers

6E Exclusive

What's in your bag » Artificial leather » 2 front pockets for easy access » Adjustable sling » One side zip pocket for extra storage » One zip closure pocket inside the bag » Rubberised padding at base to prevent scratches

Contains 1 Duffle Bag

Portronics Duffle Bag Elements Go Dark Brown IndiGo Price

M.R.P.

`3999

`1499

63%

Discount

THS

12 MON

Timekeeper » Chains are made of Stainless steel » Excellent anti-rust & anti-corrosion feature » Water resistance feature » Watch Dial made of alloy » Watch with Date feature » Mitsubishi Battery » Beautiful box enhances the overall look of watch set

62%

Discount

Contains 1 His n her watch pair

Herman Hansen His & Her Watch

M.R.P.

`3990

IndiGo Price

THS

12 MON

`1499

Steps to purchase:

Buy products at dealsbyava.com or WhatsApp 'AVA'

63 63 13 63 63

Pay and get products delivered at your doorstep

Shop using your 6E Rewards Credit Card and earn additional 10% 6E Rewards

74

April 2022

*T&C apply

Promise of Purity

6E Merchandise From premium gold coins and bars to unique Disney collectibles in fine silver, buy the purest precious metal collectibles directly from MMTC-PAMP

India’s Purest Gold 24 k, 999.9 Purest gold Finest Swiss craftsmanship Extra weight! Every piece of MMTC-PAMP gold weighs more than what you pay for Wide range for personal investing, collecting or gifting

Price on demand at shop.mmtcpamp.com

Love Forever 24 k, 999.9 10 gm gold coin

Premium Gifting & Collectible

Gold Lotus Bar

Limited-edition 999.9 silver collectibles 31.1 gm fine silver coins featuring Princess Elsa from beloved Disney’s Frozen franchise

Disney’s Frozen Coin Contains 1 silver coin M.R.P.

IndiGo Price

`5000 `4500 Offer Code: MMTCPAMP Steps to purchase:

Buy products at shop.mmtcpamp.com or

WhatsApp 'PAMP'

63 63 13 63 63

100% free & contactless doorstep delivery

Terms and Conditions: All product images are for illustrative purposes only and may differ from the actual product. All products are subject to availability and may be withdrawn at any time. In the event of any queries, clarifications or complaints with respect to your purchases, please contact MMTC-PAMP. If there is any complaint related to the performance of any Product, the same shall be governed by the standard warranty conditions of MMTC-PAMP IndiGo shall have no liability in relation to the quality or merchantability of the products. All products and purchases may be subject to further terms and conditions as may be issued by MMTC-PAMP, as may be applicable.

We raised the bar While some raise a glass to life, here's a happy selection of duty-free alcohol to raise a bottle to. Or two, we don't judge. Get your hands on these classics to raise the spirits of any and every occasion.

Buy on board These products are available on your flight, and not on ground.

Please contact our cabin crew if you wish to purchase them.

One of the best known vodkas, Absolut Blue is famed for its full bodied and complex, yet smooth and distinct flavour.

It not only lights up taste buds but also any occasion, making it a party favourite!

Should you give this a shot? Absolut-ly!

Sky Price

USD 21 100cl

The name is Walker... Johnnie Walker. The signature square bottles. Coloured labels distinguishing the blends. Complex flavours. No wonder it’s been called “the Savoy, the Everest of deluxe whiskies”.

Sky Price

USD 38 100cl

Pour yourself a glass of tradition with the iconic Johnnie Walker Double Black. With its naturally smoked flavour and expert blend, this is one whisky that will keep you coming back year after year.

Sky Price

USD 50 100cl

Consumption of duty-free liquor in the aircraft is strictly prohibited. Duty-free liquor will be handed just before landing. Duty-free liquor allowances- Bangkok: One litre of liquor; Dubai: Four litres of spirit; Muscat: Two litres/two bottles of liquor per family, if imported by a Non-Muslim; Singapore: Free import of wines, spirits and beer not exceeding one litre each by passengers of 18 years of age and above.

Disclaimer: Only on selected international flights.

76

April 2022

20% cashback as 6E Rewards with Ka-ching credit card!

Buy your favourite snacks and beverage on board to avail the offer.

Offer Valid till 30th April 2022.

Whatsapp 'TIFFIN' to apply Ka-ching credit card

63 63 13 63 63 T&C apply.

77

New

New

Smirnoff Red 5cl.

Sky Price - USD 7 Turn it into a Bloody Mary + USD 2

#6EExplorer

#LetsIndiGo Featuring facets of IndiGo destinations from travellers' perspective. Share pictures on Instagram, tag @indigo.6e and get featured here! #indigo6e @prajwal_mandawkar Aviation is a love story that can only be lived through the eyes of an aviator..

@mussabhat As you start to walk on the way, the way appears.

#picoftheday #positivevibes #aviationworld #aviationdaily #avgeek #instaaviation #instaaviationphotography #aviation #aviationphotography #aviators #aircraftdoctors #indigo6e #forever6e #igdaily #igers #aviationlovers

Got Leh'ed.

@theurbanvibe

#leh #gratitude #bliss #mountains #Ladakh #tripotocommunity #BBCTravel #beingLadakhi #LPMIGoProTravels #wanderlust #india.photo #travelsolo #travelindiagram #happiness #happytimes #traveltheworld #travelphotography #travelblogger #traveldairies #explore #startofnewbeginning #positivevibes #highvibes

Mumbai to Kashmir in 3 seconds #TravelWithUrbanVibe #airportreels #kashmirtourism #jammukashmir #gulmarg #gulmargdiaries #winterwonderland #travelphotography #travelgram #airportlook #reelitfeelit #kashmirvalley #kashmirdairies @byaditikothari #writersofinstagram #writerscommunity #likeforlikes #followforfollowback #yourquote #yourquotebaba #yourquotedidi #instagram #igers #poetry #_nazariya #bnw #oneliners #qotd #writersofinstagram #byaditikothari #words #instagood #instaphoto #instapost #instaquotes #instathought #instawords #lifequotes #philosophyquotes #time #likesforlike #writersofindia #word #line #art

@anisharaichand_1524

@thestylechair Got my passport out after almost three years and THE EXCITE, well as you can see was just uncontrollable. So this one’s for posterity🥰 #traveljunkie Glad to have our very own @indigo.6e back with their international flights making this trip possible.

88

April 2022

Chose to reference sunflowers here because of their ability to grow at such a fast rate. I like to think that is how I have shown up in this world over the past year, and maybe you have too...

Stretching straight towards the sun, reaching for the light , growing through the dark places in our lives and still pressing on… #newpost #newnew #instapost #airportoutfit #airportdiaries #outfirinspiration #inspiration #bestfriendgoals #travellingkolkata #outfitsideas #bosslady #bossyus

Starting from introductory price of INR 5999/-#

Book now at www.goindigo.in/6eholidays

#Applicable on per person starting package rates for Mumbai-Goa when booked 15 days before travel date.