Hello 6E December 2022

First Note

A s the trees slumber under the white quilt of snow, cities and towns seem to come alive in the hazy evenings of winter. Golden lights sparkle all around as people leave their homes to enjoy sweet moments over their favourite winter drink, relishing a few conversations along the way. And that's how stories are born. Humans have been telling each other stories since forever now, making them an intangible part of our culture. Thus, culture gives way to heritage and folkloretraditions, customs, tales, sayings, dances and art forms preserved across time and space.

In this issue of Hello 6E, we celebrate winter as this is the time for stories. So, let us walk in the streets of time through material memory preserved in the nooks and crannies of our towns and cities. Come walk with us. Come walk among us!

In the Offbeat section, we take the road less travelled and explore the cultural heritage of lost treasures in Prayagraj, Nashik, Hyderabad, Indore and Bhubaneswar. We walk off the beaten path and revisit the rich legacy of the bygone era that still breathes in the cities' spirit and character.

In Artistry, we trace Turkish city Istanbul's history that lives in its artistic heritage. We take a glance at its palaces and museums – Topkapi Palace Museum, Galata Tower Museum and Whirling Dervishes hall –but what steals the cake is the quaint Pera Museum.

In My City My Way, we talk to couturier Vaishali Shadangule, who has just showcased her collection at the Milan Fashion Week, to explore her hometown, ancient Vidisha in Madhya Pradesh.

In Takeoff, we explore Goa beyond its beaches and delve into its Portuguese heritage. In the Vignette section, we come full circle and look towards a new dawn and a better future as cities around the world usher in the New Year.

#goIndiGo

“I wonder if the snow loves the trees and fields, that it kisses them so gently? ....and perhaps it says, 'Go to sleep, darlings, till the summer comes again.'"

L ewis Carroll

Come with us to Donyi Polo, the airport serving Itanagar, the capital of Arunachal Pradesh, to mark the 75th destination in IndiGo's domestic network!

INDIGO

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The Publisher is solely liable for any claims for breach of intellectual property rights by any third party in relation to materials appearing in the HELLO 6E magazine (except such materials and content which have been created by IndiGo, in which case IndiGo or its service providers shall be liable for such claims). IndiGo shall bear no liability for any article, content, advertisement, advertorial, image or photograph appearing in any issue of this magazine including any content which is communal, indecent, gender discriminatory, caste-creed discriminatory, racist, defamatory or libelous to any person, organisation, etc., except in case of content which has been created by IndiGo. All materials are strictly copyrighted and all rights reserved. No part of the publication may be reproduced in whole or part without prior written permission of the copyright holder, Publisher and IndiGo. All articles marked as ‘Talking Point’ in the magazine are advertorials.

CIN No U22229DL2006PTC152087

Cover

Glimpses of domestic and international destinations of IndiGo network.

22 Prayagraj, Nashik, Hyderabad, Indore and Bhubaneswar - Heritage Walks take you down the roads less travelled. OffBeat 28 Goa preserves its Portuguese heritage and culture in its quaint neighbourhoods. TakeOff

& Content C Leekha

Founder

LIFE MANAGEMENT BEGINS WITH SELF-MANAGEMENT

Take ownership of your actions. Know your responsibility and what you are accountable for.

Manner matters!

Be enthusiastic and self-driven; be more responsible and stay accountable; be nice and be courteous; be polite and display respect; be considerate and be self – disciplined.

responsibility but practicing selfmotivation can help you become more self-aware and prioritize what's meaningful to you.

A student's guide to self-management

Be optimistic. Positivity is contagious.

"A

proactive approach to self-management is crucial. Taking care of your mental, physical, social, and intellectual abilities is synonymous with self-management. Schedule your self-appointments and work around them to become your own leader."

Self-management is a crucial component of all learning, whether in academic subjects, other content areas, or skills such as playing an instrument. By following through with plans, students can complete assignments, study for tests, and remain focused in class and in life. This increases the ability to get motivated and proactively accomplish daily tasks It takes a certain level of personal

Keep a good posture. Make sure you carry your best self at all times. Master the art of time management. Time waits for no one, especially if you are a learner (Be an early bird!).

Make informed decisions. Operational excellence depends on decision-making skills.

Resolve problems. For effective problem resolution, find the root cause.

The ability to manage one's own time increases productivity at work, allowing you to achieve your personal and professional goals more effectively.

This works!

Decide to take the lead. Your actions don't need to be reminded by others all the time. Keep your life organized. The more organised you are, the more effective you will be in life and at work.

Read voraciously and listen to learn; don't compromise your values; honour your good word and keep up your word; maintain trustworthiness and expect it from others; maintain a good work ethic and make your choice without regret; establish good habits and reject bad ones to stay productive. Speak up! Get your voice heard. Keep healthy and take care of yourself.

In addition to managing stress, controlling impulses, motivating oneself and setting and achieving personal and academic goals, students will acquire the ability to control their emotions, thoughts, and behaviours effectively in any situation by assessing, educating, collaborating, setting goals, and following up on their actions.

Know Thyself - Identify your skills and use them judiciously Do you know your strengths? How well do you manage time, prioritizing, making confident decisions, handling stress gracefully, solving problems, regulating your behaviour positively, thinking critically, expressing yourself creatively? Self-motivation comes from your ability to manage all of them and level up to reach your goals. Self-mastery is the key to success!

Dr Manimekalai Mohan

& Managing Trustee SSVM Institutions, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu

Artistry

Istanbul is a treasure trove of art heritage. We explore one of its museums.

DuelAction

Discovering similarities in two different cities of the world.

MyCity MyWay

Fashion designer Vaishali Shadangule takes us to her hometown, Vidisha.

Viewpoint

Top 5 unique experiences in Maldives.

Vignette

Welcome the New Year along with the first sunrise around the world.

DAY

Mountain heart

It is said that the mountains attract around 15 to 20 per cent of global tourism, and they need to be protected from environmental degradation. The United Nations General Assembly designated December 11 as the International Mountain Day, and since 2003, it has been observed every year to create awareness about the importance of mountains.

a r o u n d t h e w o r l d a

spectacular display of fireworks is what you can usher in your New Year with at Ras Al Khaimah, UAE. Featuring pyro drones, nano lights, colours and shapes choreographed to electric beats, the New Year Eve extravaganza promises to dazzle. The pyromusical event will be held in a 4.7-km stretch along the waterfront between Al Marjan Island and Al Hamra village.

bewitching is how most would describe the beauty of Bhaderwah, tucked away in a lush valley around 200 km from Jammu. E xplore the alpine landscape dotted with ancient temples and forests of deodar and kail during the annual Winter Carnival. Also enjoy cultural performances, cuisine and adventure sports. December 23 to 25

Here's a sneak peek into what's in store from the genres of travel, lifestyle, events and festivals, books and films, and tech.

chandler Bing of Friends fame can easily be hailed as one of the most iconic characters of TV sitcom history. And he made actor Matthew Perry a household name. So when Perry penned his memoir, the world sat up to read about his gritty journey through catastrophic addictions. Heartfelt, hilarious and warmly familiar is how Perry lays bare his life in Friends, Lovers, and the Big Terrible Thing (Hachette India).

give your Christmas and New Year an exotic spin this year at the Pelling Winter Tourism Festival. This annual music and dance event is hosted in the picturesque mountain town of

drawing from his early moviewatching days as a child, when he would accompany his parents to theatres, comes Cinema Speculation (Hachette India) by Quentin Tarantino, a smooth yet superblyintelligent cinema book. T he long-awaited first work of non-fiction from one of the most celebrated filmmakers of our time, is extremely witty - almost like a chat with the author himself.

Pelling in Sikkim, around 125 km from Gangtok. Enjoy the cultural event and the jaw-dropping views of the surrounding Himalayan peaks! December 25 to 31.

if you are planing a trip to Rajasthan this December, make a beeline for Udaipur. The romantic lake city is at its cosy best during winter and to add to its charms are several cultural events. Explore the mysteries of one of the largest forts in the state, the majestic Kumbhalgarh Fort (around 80 km away) at

the Kumbhalgarh Festival, from December 1 to 3. Also be enthralled by melodious music at the Udaipur World Music Festival held across the city.

And from December 21 to 31, learn more about Rajasthan's iconic crafts and textiles at the annual Shilpgram Festival.

naughty or Nice'? Well, that's the theme of the Christmas edition of Cirque De Cuisine, a special evening culinary celebration at Atlantis, The Palm (Dubai) on December 16, 7 pm onward. Expect lavish buffets and live cooking sessions, exhilarating entertainment and signature dishes from some of the property's world-renowned restaurants like Nobu, Bread Street Kitchen, Seafire, En Fuego and more.

what's Indian food without flavours from the towns and cities along the Grand Trunk Road! The Taftoon Bar & Kitchen in Mumbai brings you a gastronomic journey from Kabul to Chittagong, in an ode to one of Asia's oldest and most fascinating highways. Flavours are unique and vegetarian options abound. Try the malai wale gobhi brocolli and silbatte ka soya bean for a change in taste. In desserts, do take a bite of the pista jam pie!

P LAN IT RIGHT

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

C heck List

Itanagar derives its name from the Ita Fort, which was built somewhere between the 14th and 15th century. The ruins of the fort offer stunning vistas of the city.

E AT IT RIGHT

ITANAGAR

FACT

The capital of Arunachal Pradesh, Itanagar, is a picturesque town in the southern foothills of the Himalayas. The Donyi Polo airport, Itanagar, is located at Hollongi, around 27 km away.

Rice is a staple dish here, which is accompanied with meat and vegetables. Thupka and momo are also quite popular. Try different varieties of bamboo shoot pickle.

A DVENTURE ZONE

Vi sit the Itanagar Wildlife Sanctuary that is home to a wide variety of flora and fauna. From Itanagar, you can travel to Tawang, known for several attractions, including the S angestar Tso lake and the sacred Tawang Monastery.

Itanagar marks the 75th domestic destination of IndiGo.

Gujarat

Images are for visual representation only

RAJKOT

C heck List

PLAN IT RIGHT

EAT IT RIGHT

G IFTING ZONE

IndiGo to RAJKOT w ww.goIndiGo.in

Map not to scale

S urrounded by rain-fed arid land, the H ingolgadh Nature Education Sanctuary is home to chinkara, blue bull and a large number of resident and migratory avi an spec ies.

Although dhokla remains a favourite here (much like the rest of the state), Rajkot also offers such savouries as bhungara bateta and dabeli along with a wide array of Gujarati snacks.

Drop by Gujari Bazaar for some of Gujarat’s exquisite craft and handloom products. The main attraction of this bazaar is bandhani (a tie-and-dye craft) sarees.

FACT

To meet the water needs of the city, which is built on the banks of River Aji, a lake called Lalpari was established in 1895.

B est time to visit O ctober to April

Currency Indian Rupee

Images are for visual representation only IndiGo to K UALA LUMPUR w ww.goIndiGo.in

KUALA LUMPUR

Map not to scale

FACT

E AT RIGHT

P LAN IT RIGHT

ADVENTURE ZONE

In 2022, commemorative coins and stamps were issued to mark Kuala Lumpur city's Golden Jubilee celebrations.

No trip to the Malaysian capital is complete without savouring the quintessential nasi lemak. It is available everywhere - from classy restaurants to roadside stalls.

Masjid Jamek is one of the country’s oldest mosques. It was designed by English architect A. B. Hubback and features colonial-style Neo-Moorish architectural references It is advisable to dress modestly here.

Th e Petronas Twin Towers (452 m) a re among the world’s tallest buildings. A Skybridge at levels 41 and 42 joins the two buildings. Do not miss the view from here. An evening trip is also fun.

B est time to visit May to July and December to February.

Currency Malaysian Ringgit

M ALAYSIA

Kuala Lumpur

SANDS OF TIME

E xplore the rich legacy of lesser-known treasures of the era gone by. Take the road less travelled to r ediscover art, food and heritage of the streets coloured by time.

Words Viraj K. Athwal

What's More?

Prayagraj's cuisine draws from its heritage. Malviya Nagar is a thriving commercial hub. Do not miss the famous Loknath Gali known for serving delicacies like chaat, samosa, kulfi and lassi as well as housing textile and spice shops. You can visit the Civil Lines for such popular dishes as biryani, masala churmura, dahi bhalla, gol gappe, kulfi faluda and gulab jaamun. Do not miss the delicious kachoris in the Katra market area.

KhusroBaghisagardenwiththetombof PrinceKhusro,theeldestsonofMughal emperorJehangir.

Best time to visit: October to March.

Prayagraj is considered as one of the holiest of pilgrimage centres in India, and hosts the Kumbh and Mahakumbh melas. The ancient city had a place of immense significance in Medieval India and was the provincial capital of the Mughals. It was a British stronghold, and was the centre of the First War of Independence in 1857. The city is dotted with several heritage sites like the Allahabad Fort, Allahabad Museum, All Saints Cathedral, Khusro Bagh and many more.

Prayagraj

Images are for visual representation only

Where: Uttar Pradesh.

Connect: Fly IndiGo to Prayagraj.

Bhubaneswar

Best time to visit: October to mid-March. Where: Odisha.

What's More?

Dance forms like Gotipua, Odissi and Chhau make the city a significant contributor to India's performing arts. The Odia cuisine is known for its sweets like chhena poda, goja and pitha. In 2019, the ‘Odisha Rasagola’ received the GI tag. Remember to try dahi bara alu dum gup chup (local name for pani puri chakuli pitha that bears a close resemblance to dosa and kanika, a sweet rice dish.

Designed by German architect Otto Königsberger in 1946, Bhubaneswar is a fine example of a modern city preserving its roots. The city and its outskirts are dotted with such revered and historic spots as the Shanti Stupa of Dhauligiri, and Ashokan rock edicts, where it is believed the Kalinga War was fought, Lingaraj Temple, Rajarani Temple, Mukteshwar Temple, and the Udaygiri and Khandagiri caves. It is close to sacred Puri (60 km), historical Konark (65 km) and Nandankanan Zoo (about 15 km), famous for its white tigers!

Connect: Fly IndiGo to Bhubaneswar.

Images are for visual representation only

Images are for visual representation only

Where: Maharashtra.

What's More?

Food and art are integral to the city's past and present. Old Tambat Ali in Nashik city is a part of an ancient settlement of coppersmiths known as 'tambats' who are famous for making intricate handmade copper and brass utensils. Visit College Road for street food and do not miss such regional specialities as the famous dabeli, vada pav and such sweet treats as lassi and jalebi

Nashik

Spread over a part of the Deccan plateau, the ancient city of Nashik is a paradise for a traveller who loves nature as much as history. It is said Lord Rama (in the epic Ramayana) made Nashik his abode during his exile. And also that it was here Lord Laxmana cut off the nose (nashika) of Shurpnakha, and thus this city was named Nashik. The hilltop forts of Anjaneri and Ramshej are located in and around Nashik as are lush forests that house several species of flora and fauna endemic to the region. To explore the cultural history of the city, visit the sacred settlement of Panchvati. Do not miss the Kalaram Mandir and the nearby Trimbakeshwar Temple and the Pandav Leni Caves.

Best time to visit: October to March.

Connect: Fly IndiGo to Mumbai.

Images are for visual representation only

Indore

What's More?

Indore preserves its rich tradition of theatre through the group Natya Bharti. It is also home to the Devlalikar Kala Vithika gallery, which is uniquely associated with the city's arts scene since the early 20th century. Indore is a foodie's paradise and the Chappan Dukan food street offers delectable regional dishes.

Best time to visit: October to March.

Indore holds a special place in the country's history due to its ancient roots and its transformation to a modern trading centre. Today, Indore’s textile and handicraft industry has distinct styles that include the bagh print, smocking and shadow work. The city also specialises in cotton textiles and is known for sarees. Much of Indore's architecture is attributed to the Holkar dynasty. The city is replete with palaces, including the Rajwada Palace and the Lalbagh Palace. The spectacular Kanch Mandir, made entirely of glass and mirrors, is one of the prime tourist attractions here.

Connect: Fly IndiGo to Indore.

Where: Madhya Pradesh.

Image courtesy: Madhya Pradesh Tourism Board

Connect: Fly IndiGo to Hyderabad.

What's More?

Much of its culture is reflected in its food that includes the worldfamous Hyderabadi biryani, haleem, Irani chai, dosas and Osmania biscuit. Visit the Moazzam Jahi Market, characterised by its white domes and granite structures, for hookahs, fruits and fragrant ittars Visit Banjara Hills for its bars and cafés, high-end Indian restaurants, nightclubs and shopping malls.

From minarets and hillocks to skyscrapers, Hyderabad has emerged as a modern city with traditional roots. Today, the city is a cultural and technological hub but has continued to preserve its rich legacies, including the Golconda Fort, the Chowmahalla Palace, the Charminar and several old markets for indigenous Indian handicrafts like dokra and bidri work The city has quite a few lakes but the Hussain Sagar Lake and the Osman Sagar Lake, better known as Gandipet Lake, are sights to behold.

Where: Telangana.

Hyderabad

Images

Best time to visit: October to March.

are for visual representation only

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.

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

, It s yesterday ONCE MORE

ONCE MORE It s yesterday ,

Meet the author

Gustasp and Jeroo Irani are gluttons for adventurous escapades and their stories and photographs attempt to capture heritage, culture, hotspots and secret retreats the world over.

To know more, follow them on www.gustaspandjeroo.com

With its Champagne-coloured beaches lapped by a sea as blue as the Mediterranean and its susegad (laid-back or contented) aura, Goa was the ideal place for the global travellers of yore to hang out and meditate. Their descendants, modern-day experience-seekers, too, find Goa’s tropical magic and its tolerant, indulgent, life-is-abeach lifestyle, alluring.

Today, Goa unabashedly celebrates the good life yet there are pockets where whiffs of its colonial past are stronger than the salt-laden breeze that wafts up from the Arabian Sea. We love the hedonistic side of Goa as much as its sleepy, Portugueseinfluenced variation, evident in Fontainhas, the Latin Quarter of Panaji, and the sleepy island of Divar, accessed by a short ferry ride.

The Portuguese colonisers left Goa in 1961 but uncovering their legacy is a fun way to get to Goa’s heart. We head to Fontainhas, in Panaji, at the foot of Altinho, a swish hilltop area where the lament-like strains of a fado (a Portuguese genre of music) spill out from a window. Further down the alley, someone is playing the piano in a light-fingered way

B eyond the beaches, Goa preserves its Portuguese heritage in quaint neighbourhoods.

Words and Photos Gustasp and Jeroo Irani

D id you know?

T he C hurch of St. Cajetan is modelled on the original design of St. Peter’s Church in Rome. It is architecturally Corinthian while the gilded altar is richly carved in Baroque style.

T he Church of Our Lady of Grace was once the largest church complex in Old Goa with seminary, convent, library, cloisters, dormitories, galleries and a number of cel ls.

but his musical dexterity is drowned by a wannabe opera singer practising his arias.

Fontainhas is dotted with red-roofed Portuguese-style homes with trellised balconies fringing sun-lit alleys. The facades are awash in Mediterranean colours of ochre, green, blue and red, and give the neighbourhood an aura of having been teleported from Portugal. In dim convivial taverns, locals chug feni, the Goan brew, while attractive little cafés and restaurants serve hearty Portuguese-Goan fare to camera-toting tourists.

Even the street names in Fontainhas resonate with a colonial cadence - Rua de Natal, Avenida Dom João, and Cunha Rivera and Rua 31 de Janeiro. On the latter, stands one of the oldest bakeries in Panaji, which hawks poee, a Goan bread with a crusty exterior and a warm heart.

Vestiges of its colonial past can be found all over Goa – in vintage homes with their outdoor balcaos (seating area) where, come evening, elderly women revel in the balmy breeze and indulge in a spot of gossip with

their neighbours. Their menfolk hang out at the neighbourhood tavern enjoying a fenifuelled evening of jokes and camaraderie. Some stately homes (like that of Menezes Braganza) have thrown open their gilded doors to welcome tourists.

While the hundreds of white-washed churches that soar in leafy glades across Goa are wreathed in memories of the past, it’s perhaps in Old Goa that the memories of a bygone era saunter. Dubbed the Rome of the East, Old Goa or Velha Goa, served as the capital of the Portuguese colony till repeated outbreaks of cholera and malaria forced the government to move to Panaji in 1843.

There, the grand churches, convents and monasteries have been done in the Baroque

The Baroque interiors of the Church of St. Francis of Assisi resonate with whispers from the past.

style but we are drawn to the Basilica of Bom Jesus that houses the mortal remains of Old Goa’s most celebrated resident – St. Francis Xavier. The body of the saint is placed in a glass-panelled silver casket, resting on top of an imposing memorial sculpted by Italian artiste Giovanni Battista Foggini of Florence.

The Baroque interiors of the Church of St. Francis of Assisi resonate with whispers from the past. Inside Se Cathedral, across

the Basilica of Bom Jesus, stands the Chapel of the Cross of Miracles, where it is said a vision of Christ was seen in 1919. The Cross of Miracles is credited with phenomenal power, and some legends state it is constantly, if slowly, growing, whilst others claim to have seen water spring from the rock upon which the cross is built. Yes, Old Goa abounds in miracles, they say.

On the road to Old Goa is Ribandar from where we board a ferry for a trip to Divar, a tiny island where Father Time is a stranger. The island’s slow Latin pace is preserved by the locals. Inhabitants live a timeless existence on Divar, keeping the 21st century at bay. Towards the centre of the island, the narrow lanes are fringed by picturesque Portuguesestyle villas with sloping roofs and ample wrap-around verandahs. Most homes are edged by flowering gardens or smothered in creepers and colourful bougainvillea… As we gaze at those colonial outposts, we see an aristocratic Dona Maria and a fidalgo, a swashbuckling nobleman, step out of a villa into a world that has remained unchanged. Or, is it our imagination playing tricks in the fading sunlight? In Goa, anything is possible!

Artistry

I stanbulL OST IN

author

Meet the

Vijaya Pratap is a freelance journalist and a documentary filmmaker, based in Hyderabad. She specialises in the study of art, culture and wildlife. Trained in classical dance and music, her major focus is on the performing arts of India.

Istanbul has always fascinated the world. First, as the timeless Constantinople and later as Istanbul, the glamorous metropolis with enviable sophistication. A transcontinental metropolis of art, culture, history and heritage, for avid travellers like me, it is a coveted destination.

Straddling two continents, Istanbul's unique location has attracted both traders and invaders over the centuries, and these visitors have shaped its history, culture and tradition. While most tourists make a beeline for the famed Hagia Sophia mosque, the Blue Mosque,

A unique blend of contemporary culture and ancient traditions, this Turkish city is a treasure trove of art heritage. We explore one of its quaint museums.

the Topkapi Palace, the Basilica Cistern and the many minarets dotting the city's skyline, for art heritage buffs, Istanbul is a treasure trove; every bylane a footprint in time!

As an ode to its rich art heritage, galleries and museums are spread across the bustling metropolis but one particularly special one is the unique Pera Museum, located in one of the most popular parts of the city, the historic quarter.

Housed in a 19th-century neoclassic building (built in 1893), Pera Museum is known most for its three permanent collections, “Orientalist Paintings”, “Anatolian Weights and Measures”, and “Kütahya Tiles and Ceramics”.

Founded by the Suna and İnan Kıraç Foundation, the paintings provide glimpses of the Ottoman world from the 17th to 20th centuries, including the most beloved painting – Osman Hamdi Bey's The Tortoise Trainer

The ground floor is home to the popular Pera Café, designed in Art Deco style, to represent the time when the building housed a posh hotel.

Among the many exhibitions, “Intersecting WorldsAmbassadors and Painters” is a selection in the Pera Museum that offers a picture of Ottoman diplomatic history. Interestingly, the portraits of French diplomat Charles Gravier, and his wife, in Turkish attire capture the twin soul of Istanbul - the perfect blend of Europe and Asia. A Scene from a Turkish Harem, an attentiongrabbing painting is the depiction of the Ottoman

Words Vijaya Pratap

The works of Osman Hamdi Bey, a pioneering Turkish painter, draw the most crowds at the Pera Museum.

IndiGo to ISTANBUL w ww.goIndiGo.in

D id you know?

The Tortoise Trainer depicts a man in oriental attire, pensively watching tortoises eating leaves on the floor. He holds a ney (flute) in his hand and carries a percussion instrument on his back. Experts says, the figure is modelled after the artist himself, while the musical instruments suggest he is a dervish.

T he recently-concluded ' B eyo g lu and Ankara Culture Route Festival' held in Istanbul and Ankara showcased arts and culture events ranging from operas, classical music concerts, exhibitions of modern and traditional art, contemporary and abstract art installations etc.

The Tortoise Trainer

harem. But the works of Osman Hamdi Bey, an Ottoman statesman and a pioneering Turkish painter (1842-1910), draw the most crowds. A special section is dedicated to his works. Trained in Paris, his scenes with figures stand out with their stylistic resemblance to the works of leading Western Orientalist paintings. Dressed in Ottoman costumes, his figures are depicted in an oriental setting, surrounded by oriental objects. The male figures in most of his paintings are based on his photographs dressed in various costumes. Among all his works, the The Tortoise Trainer takes a place of pride.

The museum stands on what was once known as the Grand Rue de Pera, now named Istiklal Avenue. A perfect blend of modernity and tradition, the street is filled with contemporary boutiques and cuttingedge cultural centres housed in grand 19th-century buildings. An antique tram runs through it as crowds of pedestrians weave in and out of bustling cafes, bistros and bars.

Inside the museum, a calm pervades, while outside, chaos reigns in the bustling street, a glimpse of which is captured in a frame indoors as well. As I enjoy an interesting contemporary collection, my guide observes that today's Turkish artists are no longer bound in subject or design by their past, and a wide range of techniques and approaches are being experimented with. I can't agree more and recall Alfred, Lord Tennyson's classic words: “The old order changeth, yielding place to new...”

S ome museums with free admission

• Topkapi Palace Museum

• I stanbul Archaeology Museums

• Turkish and Islamic Arts Museum

• G alata Tower Museum

• G reat Palace Mosaics Museum

• R umeli Fortress Museum

• H agia Irene Museum

• G alata Mevlevi House Museum, also known as the Whirling Dervishes hall

• F ethiye (Pammakaristos) Museum

• M useum of the History of Science and Technology in Islam

• A dam Mickiewicz Museum

Source: muze.gen.tr

Duel Action

P HUKET PORT

Renamed Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose Dweep in 2018, the Ross Island stands witness to history as deer and peacocks wander by. The island is about a 10-minute boat ride from Port Blair's Aberdeen Jetty. A church, a bakery, a printing press, a small hospital, and other old structures dot the island.

Visit the Two Heroines Monument, memorial statue of the heroines: Thao Thep Krasattri and Thao Si Sunthon, who rallied islanders in 1785 to repel Burmese invaders, who outnumbered them. According to legend, the sisters convinced the women of the city to dress as men so that the cavalry looked heavy. The monument was built in 1967 and, over the years, has become must-see attraction of the city.

When in Port Blair, expect a wide array of fresh sea food. From prawns and lobsters to crabs and squids - the options are endless. Try the heavenly combination of coconut prawn curry and rice! Savour the street food too - panipuri/ phuchka, chaats and kebabs

The food in Phuket is influenced by many cultures, so you will find just about any cuisine on Thailand’s largest island.

Mee hokkien (noodles with seafood, meat slices, greens and an almost gravy-like broth) and khanom jeen (thin, round rice noodles served with crab curry toppings) are must-tries.

If you are looking to let your hair down, lift your spirits and simply have a good time - visit SeaShell Hotel's sea-facing Amaya, one of the go-to rooftop restaurant and lounge bars in town. Savour Chinese and Indian fare with choicest spirits and cocktails. If you are lucky, you might enjoy some live music too!

Shoppers' delight

Port Blair - popular for cane crafts, sea shell crafts, coconut shell decorative items - caters to pockets of all sizes. Visit M.G. Road, where all sorts of stores can be discovered. For trinkets, pretty souvenirs and local handcraft products, make your way to Aberdeen Bazaar.

For the night-angels

From malls and popular standalone stores to markets - there is no dearth of retail experience in Phuket. Visit Phuket Weekend Market, the city's largest night market that offers fast fashion, souvenirs, electronics and more. If malls are your calling, stop by Jungceylon that boasts entertainment zones, cinema halls restaurants and stores of international fashion brands.

Phuket's coastal location has rendered the city an ideal one for sunset bars, with the cliff areas dotted with numerous ones. Of all these, the Wassa Homemade Bar, perched on the hill overlooking the Patong Bay, is the most popular one. Drop by this ultimate sundowner venue, which is arguably one of the best of its kind in the city.

For adventure junkies

Port Blair is a haven for waters sports enthusiasts. From scuba diving to snorkeling and from banana boat rides to jet skiing - there is never a dull moment here. Nature lovers should visit Chidiya Tapu (about 20 km from Port Blair), which is an ideal spot for birdwatching.

Surrounded by warm tropical waters, Phuket is aptly called the paradise for water sports. A pilgrimage for water sports lovers, Phuket offers such water adventures as sea kayaking and kite surfing. Snorkeling is also an option here. If you want something challenging head to Phuket Wake Park and test your wakeboarding skills!

Recommendation: Port Blair's Samudrika Naval Marine Museum, run by the Indian Navy, provides insight into the islands’ ecosystems, tribal communities, flora and fauna. Phuket's Chinpracha House, a beautifully-preserved Sino-Portuguese mansion, is a must-visit.

'Vidisha is where my where my

VAISHALI S

heart is' heart is'

It's not everyday that an Indian designer label showcases at two of the world's most prestigious fashion shows in consecutive years. But for designer Vaishali Shadangule, the demure woman behind the label Vaishali S., successful participation in the two international shows were just affirmations of her belief that Indian textile heritage can revolutionise global couture. In 2021, she presented her label at the Paris Haute Couture Week and was a part of the Milan Fashion Week held in September 2022.

Haute Couture

Milan Fashion Week.

The Mumbai-based designer, who has also showcased her collection at the New York Fashion Week and retails from London and Milan boutiques, aims to bring Indian weaves, fabrics and embroideries to the forefront of global fashion.

Counting several Indian celebrities as clients, including actor Sonam Kapoor, the self-trained designer says her childhood spent in the ancient city of Vaishali in Madhya Pradesh and her state's textile heritage have influenced her creativity.

Words Snigdha Bhattacharjee

“Everyone has a calling and perhaps, fashion was mine,” says Shadangule. Without any formal design education, she left her home in Vidisha at 17 years of age. From doing odd jobs in Bhopal to running her own fashion house in Mumbai and selling globally, her journey is embellished with exciting experiences. But she always rushes back to Vaishali to rejuvenate and rediscover herself.

Fashion designer

Vaishali Shadangule has become the first Indian woman designer to have showcased at the Paris

Week and the

But despite her global success, the couturier retains her “small-town” vibes. She takes us to her hometown Vidisha, an ancient city in Madhya Pradesh

MadhyaPradesh

Fashion designer briefing

Home and hearth

I keep visiting Vidisha. My small town roots have had a profound effect on my life, especially during my growing up days. In fact, I have often drawn inspiration from my old house and the greenery that surrounds it. No luxury can beat the authentic experience of living in the quaint house with an open porch, the quintessential tulsi plant and even a pet cow!”

A history lesson

Village Calling!

“Travel for me is educative and therapeutic. My search for rare Indian textiles has taken me around the country - from Gurgunta, a village in Karnataka, to Kathua in West Bengal, Ganeshguri in Assam, and Paithan and Amla in Maharashtra."

Once known as Besnagar, Vidisha was ruled by emperor Ashoka and was named after his wife Vedisa-Mahadevi. On the city's outskirts, stands the Heliodorus pillar, also known as Khamba Baba. Nearby are the Udaygiri caves and Sanchi, known for its famed Buddhist stupa.

Tastes of Vidisha

Travel therapy

“While growing up, I was only aware of a few places in and around Vidisha. Bhopal would top our travel bucket-list. And Chanderi in Madhya Pradesh is where my love story with textiles started.”

“Madhya Pradesh offers a delicious variety of street food like chaats and farsans. But as children, we were not allowed to eat outside food. But now when I go home, I eat out. Near the Vidisha railway station there are many stalls of lip-smacking chaats. Old Vidisha, also known as Kila Andar, is perfect to taste khasta kachori (deep-fried refined flour dish) and sev (a fried snack).”

Maldives, which boasts numerous tropical islands with crystal turquoise waters, pristine beaches and a breathtakingly beautiful underwater world, is a perfect gateway for an unparalleled holiday experience.

HISTORY

Although Muleeaage currently serves as the official residence of the President of Maldives, it was built as a palace for the sultan in the early 20th century. Except for brief periods the building has been used for various government purposes or as a residence for visiting dignitaries.

Oldest structure

The Hukuru Miskiiy and the minaret adjacent to the mosque are said to be the oldest structures in Malé, dating back to the 1600s. A revered centre for worship, Huruku Miskiiy is built with interlocking coral blocks that are adorned with intricate coral carvings. The roof is supported by cut coral columns. Its interiors contain masterpieces of traditional Maldivian woodcarving and lacquer work.

Buddhist site

The island of Kaashidhoo, about 86 km from Malé, is one of the largest archeological sites in the country offering a glimpse into the Buddhist past of the Maldives. Excavations conducted revealed ruins of what would have been a sprawling monastery.

ADVENTURE

Diving in north Male’ Atoll

Male’ Atoll offers a large number of varied and well-established dive sites for the avid diver. Manta Point is famous for its mantas, coral reefs and marine life. Nassimo Thila, HP Reef and Banana Reef are also some of the most popular

Wreck diving

Maldives is an ideal destination for diving among caves, tunnels and shipwrecks. The Maldives Victory Wreck is perhaps the most popular wreck dive in the atoll. The wreck sits at a depth of about 35 m and has been encrusted with an amazing array of colourful corals. Groupers, fusiliers and batfish are among its residents.

Baa Atoll Biosphere Reserve

Located in the central western part of the Maldives in the Indian Ocean, the Baa Atoll Biosphere Reserve is home to globally-significant biodiversity among its numerous reefs, and demonstrates a long history of human interaction with the environment.

Authentic Food

Traditional Maldivian cuisine prominently features fish and coconut. Try some of the local delicacies like boshi mashuni (shredded banana flowers mixed with spices, fresh coconut and chilli), gulha (deep-fried dumplings stuffed with fish, mostly tuna, coconut, onion and chili) and (a kind of pudding).

Addu Nature Park

Encompassing the beautiful Eydhigali Kilhi wetlands and protected Koattey area in Hithadhoo Island, the Addu Nature Park is one of a kind. It features charming piers extending out to the lakes, mangroves and scenic cycling routes. Take a guided nature tour and observe the unique fauna and flora of the rich habitat.

FOOD

Underwater Dining

Fancy a meal where vibrant marine life swim over your head? Head to Ithaa, touted to be the world's first underwater restaurant. The set menus for lunch and dinner are matched with a wine concept that showcase local flavours blended with Western influences.

Dhivehi Libaas

There are local tailors and seamstresses across the country specialised in the art of creating these beautiful traditional dresses. This is one of the oldest dresses worn by Maldivian women and it boasts one of the most intricate embroidery techniques. These are available for purchase at most souvenir shops in Malé

Malé Local Market

One of the most popular street markets in Maldives, it is lined up with a wide variety of clothing items and textile. Browse through numerous stalls selling Maldivian handicraftsseashell items, lacquer work, electronics and wooden crafts.

Vignette Around the world for New Year Around the world for New Year watch it

Most of us prefer staying awake to bid adieu to the passing year. However, some take pride in welcoming the New Year's first sunrise. This New Year, here's how you can travel around the world along with the sun!

Fiji Islands

Fiji, sitting in the South Pacific Ocean, around 2,000 km north of Auckland, New Zealand, is one of the first places in the world to see the sunrise on New Year's morning. Imagine seeing the sun rise over the ocean before almost anyone else in the world.

Every New Year's eve, the Sydney Harbour Bridge dazzles with its world-famous fireworks. Australia is one of the first places to greet the New Year sun and Sydney is popular for its New Year sunrise boat parties!

Sydney

JAPAN

Japan, known as the Land of the Rising Sun, is among the first in the world to usher in the New Year's day. Watching the first sunrise of the year, called hatsuhinode, is a tradition in Japan. People gather at observation decks, camp out at beaches and hike up mountains for this show of nature. Watching it against the backdrop of Mt. Fuji, Japan's tallest peak, is very popular.

Tokyo

INDIA

While Dong in Arunachal Pradesh sees the first sunrise in India, Sikkim is close behind. Here, we see the dawn breaking over Kanchenjunga mountain, a part of the Great Himalayan Range, as seen from Sikkim.

Sikkim

As the New Year sun glides across the sky, it lights up the ancient city of Athens, Greece. Here, we see celebratory New Year's Eve fireworks explode over Athens, illuminating the sky and the streets below.

GREECE

Athens

UNITED KINGDOM

London, the UK, celebrates the New Year with a big bang as its iconic Big Ben chimes midnight.

BRAZIL

The

Rio de Janeiro

exotic US state of Hawaii is one of the last places on Earth to witness the first sunrise of the New Year.

Christ The Redeemer silently watches over the city as the sky above lights up with New Year's eve fireworks in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.

London

Hawaii

Wired ON A GREEN DRIVE

Electric vehicles are on their way to becoming mainstream in India. Here’s a list of some of the best electric vehicles that you can buy without burning a hole in your pocket.

Words K. Dutta

The advent of electric vehicles in India has been a long time coming. Believe it or not, the first electric vehicles (EV) in India were introduced in the 1990s and early 2000s, with the Lovebird by Eddie Electric Series followed by the Reva from Mahindra in 2001. Shift focus to 2016 and that’s when affordable and mainstream electric cars began to make an appearance, with the launch of the Mahindra e-Verito sedan and while it could be counted as a hit-or-miss

model, it was Tata Motors that launched the Nexon EV in 2020, which proved to be a game-changer for the affordable electric car segment in India, making EVs within reach of the common man.

The good news is that there are many who are actively seeking a more sustainable and green means of daily mobility. And if you have similar thoughts and want to buy a vehicle that is kinder to the planet, here are your best bets!

Z S EV from MG Motor

For more options, there is the ZS EV from MG Motor. The latest model of this car is extremely powerful, claiming a range of 461 km (as per ICAT). It comes with a bigger battery pack, is more powerful and takes about 8.4 seconds to go from 0 to 100 kph! With sleek interiors, this car comes at a price of INR 25.88 lakh. While the top-spec Exclusive trim is on the steeper side, there is also a less expensive Excite trim at INR 21.99 lakh.

Prices are subject to change

Tata Tiago EV

T he Tata Tiago EV is the most affordable car in this list! Prices start at INR 8.49 lakh and goes up to INR 11.79 lakh (exshowroom). The range on the Tiago EV is between 250 km and 317 km, depending on the size of the battery that you choose. The car comes with a bunch of features like connected car technology, Android auto, Apple CarPlay, Harman infotainment system and two driving modes along with regeneration modes. The Tata Tiago

EV should be on top of your list if you are looking for a budget EV with decent styling.

T he Tata Tigor EV is the next most affordable car in this list, with prices starting from INR 12.49 lakh, going up to INR 13.64 lakh (ex-showroom).

The third Tata car in this list is the Tata Nexon EV. This is the model that began the EV revolution in India, so to say. It is the highest-selling EV in the country and constituted over 60 per cent of total EV sales in the country last year. The Tata Nexon EV could be yours for INR 14.99 lakh, which is the price for the base model, while the top-spec model retails for INR 20.04 lakh (ex-showroom).

Hyundai Kona EV

T he Kona Electric is Hyundai’s first electric vehicle in India. The version for India features a 39 kWh lithium-ion polymer battery pack that comes with an electric motor delivering 136 PS. The vehicle boasts a 452 km ARAI-certified range and t akes about 47 minutes to charge from 10 per cent to 80 per cent state of charge with a DC fast charger. It comes with a tag that ranges from INR 23.84 lakh to INR 24.03 lakh. Along with better range, it comes with good features and offers more space as well.

My City My Heritage Heritage Walk, Prayagraj

By IndiGoReach with support from InterGlobe Foundation

The 1857 Uprising against the East India Company across North India came as a huge challenge for the Britishers. In Allahabad (presentday Prayagraj), barracks, bungalows and new railway station came under attack. On November 1, 1858, Queen Victoria’s proclamation took India under the control of the Crown. A new European Allahabad was spaciously laid out.

Come November and the sun-warmed streets of Cannington beckon you. The arterial road of colonial Allahabad has undergone various transformations over the last 164 years. Let’s walk the streets of Allahabad to understand the past and how it shaped a city. IndiGo, being the largest and most preferred airline ‘connecting the heritage cities of India’, is organising a series of heritage walks across the country. The initiative, christened 'My City My Heritage', kicks off on 11 December,

with a walk in Prayagraj organised by its CSR arm - IndiGoReach.

The walk will cover the following main points and much more:

Coral Club: We start at the pride and joy of Anglo Indians of Allahabad. One of the last pieces of evidence of East India Railways is still visible here.

Civil Lines Police Station or as people call it “Cannington Chowki”

Nagar Nigam Office: Painter and poet Edward Lear visited and enjoyed the hospitality of this building.

All Saints’ Cathedral: The construction of this Anglican cathedral was completed in 1891. Look forward to the Bishop’s Throne with carvings influenced by Lahore School of Art and the gargoyles looking over you.

Erstwhile Barnett Hotel now Hotel Harsh Ananda: Hotel Harsh Ananda, as it is called today, began its operations in 1890. It has had celebrity guests like Rabindranath Tagore, former Indian President S. Radhakrishnan and Raj Kapoor etc.

Indian Coffee House: Urdu poet Firaq Gorakhpuri was known to have discussions with many luminaries like Harivansh Rai Bachchan, Sumitranandan Pant to name a few!

Mercantile Building: Built in 1937, it still houses the Wheeler's book shop.

Palace Theatre: A theatre in classic era converted into a movie hall.

El Chico: This more than 50-year-old eatery has stood the test of time and has evolved from a coffee shop into a multi-functional restaurant.

Please note: No entry fee. By invitation only. Please wear comfortable walking shoes and carry drinking water. Authorised parking facilities are not available.

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.

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”.

100cl

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! 100cl 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.

Love the way you Dubai

Book with 6E Holidays and enjoy a magnificent stay at the Sheraton Mall of the Emirates, Dubai along with many exciting benefits.

Complimentary shuttle service to the Kite and La Mer Beach.

2 Magic Planet vouchers per stay.

2 tickets to Ski Dubai, Mall of the Emirates (Access to Snow Park).

20% off on dining at select venues.

Shine Spa voucher worth AED 200 for 2 guests.