Hello 6E Inflight Magazine - IndiGo Airline March 2022

116th Issue, Mar 2022 For in-flight reading only

Women in Aviation

Fly Girls

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From the International Women's Day and the festival of Holi to the World Wildlife Day and the International Day of Happiness, in the March 2022 issue of Hello 6E, we offer you several reasons to celebrate.

Celebrate spring.

The female spirit.

Splash of colours.

Nature & the wild.

Smiles & travel.

March ahead with celebrations!

In our GirlPower segment, rejoice in the success of Indian women in aviation, as three pilots from our fleet share the stories of their journey to the sky! And there is more. Turn the pages and discover the triumphant tales of a few other Indian-origin women high-flyers making their mark internationally!

In the OffBeat section, we take you road-tripping in cosy caravans and campervans, lazily meandering across India. From Bengaluru to Hampi, Guwahati to Nongriat, Jaipur to Alwar and Dehradun to Chopta, enjoy the Van Life!

First Note

LaunchPad

In Downtown, time-travel to the ruins of Ayutthaya in Thailand, a mystical royal capital.

In another section, travel to green village Khonoma in Nagaland!

And if you still haven't decided where to head to during the long Holi weekend, book your tickets to Indore for a unique celebration!

Happy Flying with #LetsIndiGo

Continuing its journey towards sustainable aviation, IndiGo recently added to its fleet the first aircraft from Airbus that operates on Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF). The A320 NEO is the first international flight operated by any Indian carrier using SAF! 1

Contents March 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

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The ‘HELLO 6E’ magazine is published by MaXposure Media Group Private Limited (“Publisher”) for exclusive circulation on commercial flights operated by InterGlobe Aviation Limited (“IndiGo”). All articles, advertisement, content, images and photographs published herein are created by the Publisher and/or contributor at their own discretion and do not necessarily represent the views of IndiGo. All rights, title and interest (including intellectual property rights) in and to the materials shall vest either with the Publisher or any contributor (including IndiGo, in certain cases) of such materials.

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Cover In the March issue of Hello 6E, we salute women in the aviation industry and our cover represents their dreams and their success stories!

20 14 28 OffBeat

FirstRow

Glimpses of domestic and international destinations of IndiGo network

Meandering through offbeat India in cosy caravans and campervans

66 Cool merchandise exclusively for IndiGo passengers

Downtown Exploring the historic ruins of Ayutthaya in Thailand

77

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Contents March 2022

44 48 57 38 32 60 Vignette

MyCity MyWay

GirlPower

TakeOff

Discovering unique experiences in and around Indore

4

Three IndiGo pilots and their tales of grit and determination

March 2022

What ace golfer Shiv Kapur loves about Delhi

A few of India's best wildlife photographers and their clicks

Viewpoint Re-discovering Chandigarh in five ways

Green Intentions

India's first Green Village Khonoma

OpenAir

around the world Know all that is happening in travel, events and festivals, new book and film releases, tech and more.

a 6

March 2022

mal Tamara, a newly-launched wellness retreat in Alleppey (Alappuzha), Kerala, can help you make the switch to a more wholesome and healthy lifestyle.

The boutique property is located by the Vembanad Lake in Alleppey’s Mannancherry village, just about an hour’s drive from Kochi airport.

Offering a minimum of a seven-

day stay, Amal Tamara's wellness philosophy revolves around Ayurveda and natural treatments.

The retreat's core is based on 'Chikitsa Chatushpada', a tenet of Ayurveda that centralises healing in the synergy of four forces: physician, patient, therapist, and medicine. So, plan a trip to rejuvenate your mind, body and soul.

b

c

oming soon to enthrall you is the Amitabh Bachchan-starrer movie Jhund. Set to be released on March 4, 2022, the film is based on the life of Vijay Barse, the founder of an NGO in Nagpur, Slum Soccer. It narrates the story of how a group of youngsters fight for their own space in the world. The movie marks the directorial debut of noted Marathi director Nagraj Manjule in Bollywood.

d

old, witty, whimsical and vibrant... this is how artist Siddhartha Kararwal has chosen to depict everyday objects and scenes in his first solo show, 'Con-Contemporary'.

In the show that is on till March 15, 2022, at Sakshi Gallery, Mumbai, he merges social commentary with popcultural imagery.

ance, music, art, poetry and other forms of creative thinking are set to come together at the Jaipur Literature Festival, which is scheduled to take place between 5 and 14 March, 2022. Returning to its home city, Jaipur, for its 15th edition, the festival promotes the heritage of Rajasthan and attracts tourists from across the world.

Sessions with celebrated artistes, filmmakers, authors and cultural think-tanks are a big draw at the event.

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March 2022

e

d

xplore landscape painting in India across a period of two centuries (from 1780 to 1980), in the exhibition titled 'New Found Lands: The Indian Landscape from Empire to Freedom' being held at Dr Bhau Daji Lad Museum, Mumbai. It unfolds a visual story that reflects the changing horizon of Indian art in this period. Being held in collaboration with DAG, the exhibition offers works

by British artists, who travelled in India, as well as those by Indian painters, who sought new modes of expression. The exhibition is on till March 8, 2022.

rama and mystery come together on Netflix this year. If you are a Daniel Craig fan, stay tuned to Netflix for his Knives Out 2. In 2022, Netflix is offering a packed schedule of movies and the streaming giant recently revealed the first looks of some of these star-studded films, including Ryan Gosling's The Gray Man. On social media, it offered brief glimpses of Lindsay Lohan's upcoming holiday offering titled Falling for Christmas, Mila Kunis' drama Luckiest Girl Alive, which is based on the 2015 eponymous bestseller, and Adam Sandler's basketball drama Hustle.

i

ndulge in a month-long escape to the gorgeous tea valleys and mountainscapes of Hatton in Sri Lanka, with 'Resplendent Escape', a unique vacation offer introduced exclusively for Indian travellers by the brand Resplendent Ceylon. Use this time to unwind, immerse in nature and reconnect with yourself as you enjoy private tea hosting ceremonies, kayaking and cruising on Castlereagh Lake, guided nature excursions, planter's lunch, teainfused dinners, barbecues, signature spa therapies and more.

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March 2022

t

he eagerly-awaited annual event Taj Mahotsav celebrates the legacy of one of the most-visited tourist sites in India, the Taj Mahal in Agra, Uttar Pradesh. Join the festivities from March 20 to 29, 2022, at Shilpgram near the eastern gate of Taj Mahal. Discover the rich heritage of Indian art, craft, culture and cuisine at the 10-day festival. This year, the festival will highlight the Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav.

s

et to rock the night away?

Get ready as Tiësto will be in Dubai! The Grammy Awardwinning, platinum-certified international music icon, who has given us chart-topping hits like “ The Business”, “Don’t Be Shy” and "The Motto", is all set to perform live at CocaCola Arena on March 4. The show of the DJ, who is often called “the Godfather of EDM”, is being presented by Full Circle.

w

hat can be a better way to introduce children to the fascinating universe of mythologies than an engaging book? That's exactly what Mythonama is: a unique blend of storytelling and activities like quizzes and crosswords. Its stunning illustrations bring alive legends of creation, cosmic twins, sacred plants and divine beasts from the Mahabharata, Bible, Quran, Avesta and more. Meet legendary beings like Girimekhala, Bahubali, Leviathan and Buraq in this perfect primer on India’s mythologies authored by popular quizmakers Mudita Chauhan-Mubayi and Adittya Nath Mubayi. (Available across leading bookstores and retailers).

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March 2022

FirstRow

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

EAT RIGHT

Check List

Mui borok is a traditional dish of Tripura. Prepared with berma - dried and fermented fish - it is cooked without oil and is extremely nutritious.

HISTORY CALLING

'The Lake Palace of Tripura' or the Neermahal is the largest palace of its kind in the Indian subcontinent. This highly ornate structure stands proudly in the middle of the Rudrasagar Lake.

AGARTALA

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INDIA Best time to visit October to June.

Tripura

Currency Indian Rupee.

March 2022

IndiGo to AGARTALA www.goindigo.in

Map not to scale

FACT The Ujjayanta Palace, former royal abode of the Tripura's Manikya Kings, today houses the state museum.

Built in 18991901, its name Ujjayanta was given by Gurudev Rabindranath Tagore, who stayed in this palace on several occasions.

Images are for visual representation only

GIFTING ZONE

Cane and bamboo occupy a distinctive place in the life of the people of Tripura.

Lamp shades, furniture, and baskets are some of the well-known bamboo products.

INDIA

Images are for visual representation only

Karnataka

BENGALURU

IndiGo to BENGALURU www.goindigo.in

Check List EAT RIGHT

PLAN IT RIGHT

SHOP IT RIGHT

Bisi bele bath is a popular rice and lentil dish, mostly had during lunch but can be relished any time of the day.

Served hot with a dollop of ghee, it often comes with fried side dishes like chips or crispy potatoes.

Lalbagh Botanical Garden is a popular tourist attraction. Its natural beauty along with a magnificent lake and a collection of tropical and sub-tropical plants are a sight for sore eyes.

A haven for shopaholics, the popular shopping street of MG Road houses a diverse range of high-end boutiques and malls. The iconic Cauvery Emporium is a must-visit for beautiful and unique handicrafts.

FACT The capital of Karnataka, Bengaluru is also known as the 'City of Gardens'.

It is dotted with beautiful parks and green spaces.

Best time to visit October to March.

Currency Indian Rupee.

15

Kerala

Map not to scale

KANNUR

Images are for visual representation only

INDIA

IndiGo to KANNUR www.goindigo.in

Check List EAT RIGHT

PLAN IT RIGHT

GIFTING ZONE

Thalassery biryani is a heavenly mix of rice, chicken and spices. The influence of Mughal culture is evident in its flavours but the rice used is mostly short-grained.

Kerala’s only drive-in beach Muzhappilangad is about four km long. An unpaved road winding through coconut groves leads to the beach providing a good view of Kannur.

Kannur is famous for its pottery, brocade fabrics and earthenware products.

One can buy the famous wooden 'Kathakali' face as a remembrance of this beautiful place.

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March 2022

FACT Known as 'The land of Looms and Lores', Kannur is one of the major exporters of handlooms in India.

Best time to visit October to March.

Currency Indian Rupee.

Images are for visual representation only

NAGPUR IndiGo to NAGPUR www.goindigo.in

INDIA

Maharashtra

Map not to scale

FACT Nagpur is the winter capital of Maharashtra and is popularly known as "orange city". It has also recently been ranked as the cleanest city in the country.

Best time to visit October to March

Currency Indian Rupee

Check List PLAN IT RIGHT

EAT IT RIGHT

GIFTING ZONE

Deekshabhoomi, also known as Dhamma Chakra Stupa, is a holy monument and an iconic landmark.

The memorial marks the place where Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar had embraced Buddhism in 1956.

Tarri poha, a popular street food, is a musttry. It's a scrumptious combination of flattened rice, spices and a spicy gravy made with kala chana (black chickpea).

Ideal for breakfast.

With its streets hustling and bustling, Nagpur's iconic Sitabuldi Market is a place in every traveller's bucket list. The shopping experience comes with street food vendors at every nook of the market.

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KUALA LUMPUR Check List

EAT RIGHT

Nasi lemak is a national dish available everywhere from Malay restaurants to roadside stalls. Satay is a popular Malaysian street food grilled over hot fire.

PLAN IT RIGHT

Merdeka Square is a historic landmark with an iconic flagploe. Situated in front of the Sultan Abdul Samad Building, it has been the usual venue for the annual Merdeka Parade.

IndiGo to KUALA LUMPUR www.goindigo.in

Kuala Lumpur

Map not to scale

FACT Kuala Lumpur is the cultural, financial and economic centre of Malaysia. It was named the World Book Capital 2020 by UNESCO.

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March 2022

Best time to visit May to July and December to February.

Currency Malaysian Ringgit.

Visit the Petronas Twin Towers and walk on the Skybridge which connects the two towers.

One can also explore the observation deck on the 86th floor.

Images are for visual representation only

ADVENTURE ZONE

OffBeat

If you love the outdoors, crave to camp under the sky or yearn to travel without a schedule, then a caravan (or campervan) road trip is a must-try.

We bring you a few offbeat trails.

The Vanderful Life

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March 2022

Imagine spending a night under the starlit sky, against the backdrop of the historical monuments of the Vijayanagara empire in Hampi. Imagine waking up in a comfortable bed to the aroma of freshlybrewed coffee and the serenity of 1,000-year-old temples. If these unique experiences are what you want, book a caravan trip from Bengaluru to explore the famous ruins of Hampi, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You can park your caravan at a resort in Hampi or 20 km before it, near the Daroji Sloth Bear Sanctuary. Use this as the base to explore Hampi, the Badami cave temples, the historic city of Aihole, and the 7th and 8th century temples of Pattadakal, another UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Distance: Bengaluru to Hampi is around a six-hour drive.

When: Make this threeday and twonight trip ideally between November and February.

Look out for: A caravan or a camper can fit four people, including children. Most campers have two queen beds.

You can cook simple meals, shower and live comfortably in these vans.

What more?

HIGHLIGHTS Hampi is also known as one of the World’s Largest Open-air Museums. At Hampi, explore the iconic Virupaksha Temple, the Stone Chariot, the Sasivekalu Ganesha Temple and the Queen's Bath among other monuments.

Keep some time in hand for an exciting coracle ride in the Tungabhadra river.

Map not to scale

Hampi

Bengaluru

341 km (approx.)

Bengaluru to Hampi

DID YOU KNOW?

Map not to scale

The Vijayanagara empire was believed to be larger than Rome with palaces grander than that of Lisbon!

Image and information credit: luxecamper.com

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When: Ideal time is from September to January.

Look out for: In Jaipur, explore Amber Fort, Hawa Mahal and City Palace among other sites.

Jaipur to Alwar

Alwar Map not to scale

Distance: Around four hours away from Jaipur.

Meander through the golden landscape of Rajasthan, exploring the state's rich heritage and vibrant rural life in a camper van.

Plan your trip from the popular tourist hotspot Jaipur to Alwar, a paradise nestled in the lap of the green hills of the Aravalli range. You can start your trip by exploring Jaipur's famous forts and then drive out of the city towards Alwar. On the way, just 40 km before Alwar, you will cross the Sariska Tiger Reserve, which is an ideal stop for the night.

The next day, explore Alwar's palaces, forts and royal hunting grounds.

Spend another night in the van before heading back.

Jaipur

160 km (approx.)

What more?

HIGHLIGHTS In Alwar, you can enjoy a serene evening by the Siliserh Lake.

Also close to Alwar, about 90 km away, is the popular haunted Bhangarh Fort! On the outskirts of the city sits the idyllic Kesroli Hill Fort, perfect for a stunning sunrise.

DID YOU KNOW? Also known as Matasya Desh, it is said Alwar is where the Pandavas, from the Hindu epic Mahabharata, spent the last years of their 13-year exile.

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March 2022

HIGHLIGHTS Once in Chopta, park your vehicle and explore the town. If you are a trekker, you can also explore some popular trails from here, including to Tungnath, Chandrashila, Deoriatal and the trek to Chopta Bugyal.

Distance: Around seven hours from Dehradun.

When: November to May.

Dehradun to Chopta

Image and information credit: carvaaindia.com

Dehradun Map not to scale

What more?

Tucked away in the Garhwal Himalayas, Chopta is an all-year holiday destination - pleasant in summer, rain-fresh in monsoon and a snow-clad fairyland in winter. A unique way to explore this piece of paradise is in a caravan from Dehradun, which lets you explore the Himalayan vistas along the way. Imagine camping in the open by a Himalayan meadow, spending a night under a clear starstudded sky, soaking in the warmth of a bonfire and enjoying a hot cuppa. Chopta also offers many vantage points for stargazing and astrophotography. On the way, halt at Tehri Dam, around 100 km from Dehradun. The dam is a hub for water sports.

Chopta

200 km (approx.)

Look out for: On the way you can make a halt at Rishikesh and at Devprayag.

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Distance: An estimated five-hour drive from Guwahati.

HIGHLIGHTS Once you reach Nongriat, explore Lyngksiar falls, one the best-kept secrets of Meghalaya; Dawki, known for ‘floating in the air’ boat rides and Tyrna village, home to double decker root bridge. This village also has several trekking routes that you can explore.

Guwahati to Nongriat

A trip from Guwahati to Nongriat in a camper or caravan is all about taking the road less travelled to explore offbeat Meghalaya. Discover the stunning landscape, make connections with the locals, and learn about their culture and tradition in a trip of a lifetime. On the way, you can halt a night at Shillong to explore the state's beautiful capital. On a caravan trip to Nongriat, you can choose from SUVs, jeeps and pickup trucks that are outfitted with rooftop tents, cooktops, barbecue grills and camping gear. Ideally plan for a five-day trip.

Image and information credit: camping-co.com

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March 2022

Look out for: Stop at small villages on the way to enjoy the local cuisine and lifestyle.

Guwahati

Map not to scale

What more?

When: Make this five-day trip ideally between between February and April.

Nongriat

160 km (approx)

Lady in Focus

Girl Power Off to the Oscars Indian film director and producer Rintu Thomas' documentary Writing with Fire has been nominated for Oscars 2022. The debut feature documentary

by Thomas and her husband Sushmit Ghosh follows a group of Dalit women in Uttar Pradesh, who are the founders of Khabar Lahariya, a newspaper run entirely by women. The film, nominated for Best Documentary Feature at the 94th Academy Awards, has won the Special Jury Award: Impact for Change and Audience Award at Sundance Film Festival.

RINTU THOMAS Film director

DownTown

AYUTTHAYA Echoes of Grandeur Once one of the world's largest cities, Ayutthaya in Thailand is today a glorious architectural heritage site filled with majestic temples that whisper tales of its royal past.

Words Soumya Gayatri 28

March 2022

It is said Ayutthaya was named after the holy city of Ayodhya in India, the birthplace of Lord Rama. Many kings of the Ayutthaya kingdom were named after Lord Rama, such as King Ramathibodi I and King Ramesuan.

Ayutthaya flourished for around 400 years and grew to be one of the world’s largest urban areas and a centre of global diplomacy and commerce.

Located about 80 km (an hour) away from Bangkok, make a day trip to Ayutthaya.

Ayutthaya, the resplendent capital of ancient Thailand, is home to a panoply of temples and monasteries that reverberate with tales of yore.

Nestled on an island surrounded by rivers, the majestic ruins of the city speak about the rich history hidden within its walls. Today, a walk through the monumental shrines and gigantic statues of Lord Buddha in Ayutthaya, which was once a booming centre of global diplomacy and maritime trade, is like going back in time to a golden period in Thailand’s history.

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In passing Hiring a bike for the day is the most efficient way of seeing the temples of Ayutthaya. It is not just easier on your feet but also allows you to explore the town’s bucolic setting.

The magic of Ayutthaya can also be experienced on a relaxing boat ride at sunset when you drift effortlessly through the meandering canals and gaze at illuminated stupas and glinting statues of Lord Buddha.

The historical town of Ayutthaya rose to power in the 14th century under the reign of King Ramathibodi I. Ayutthaya flourished and grew to become one of the largest cosmopolitan cities of its time.

Starting from the Royal Court of Versailles to Imperial China, Ayutthaya had strong trading connections with several kingdoms around the world. In 1767, the city was attacked and destroyed by the Burmese army and was eventually lost to the vagaries of time. Today, Ayutthaya is a captivating archaeological ruin with tall stupas, sprawling monasteries and countless statues of Lord Buddha dotting every nook and cranny.

Begin your day with a tour of the famous Wat Mahathat, one of the most impressive temples in Ayutthaya. It is believed to be one of Ayutthaya's oldest temples, possibly

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March 2022

IndiGo to THAILAND www.goindigo.in

built by King Boromaraja I (1370-88), and once housed a sacred relic of Lord Buddha.

Today, it includes remains of pagodas, a royal hall, small temples and murals. Perhaps the most remarkable sight at Wat Mahathat is a stone sculpture depicting the head of Lord Buddha entwined in the roots of a banyan tree - a picturesque scene that has become synonymous with Ayutthaya.

Right across the road from the Wat Mahathat are the ruins of the Royal Palace and the iconic Wat Phra Si Sanphet. It is here that you’ll see the three distinctive pagodas that feature in numerous postcards. Situated within the Royal Palace grounds, Wat Phra Si Sanphet was the

royal monastery. A quick walk will take you to Wat LokayaSutharam (Wat Lokkayasutha), where you will come face to face with a colossal statue of a reclining Lord Buddha, which measures around 42 m in length.

Clearly, Wat LokayaSutharam is Ayutthaya’s most sacred spot and sees a continuous stream of tourists and locals, praying.

Be sure to visit Wat Chai Watthanaram, yet another spectacular temple. Built in 1630

by King Prasat Thong, it was conceived as a replica of Cambodia's Angkor Temple and features a massive 35-m-high central spire, which is surrounded by four small towers that are in turn flanked by eight conical pavilions.

Originally, paintings decorated the interiors of these pavilions, and relief scenes depicting the life of the Buddha as well as gilded statues of the lord covered the exteriors.

Even today, you can see glimpses of those.

Ayutthaya is often dubbed as the “Venice of the East” because it was constructed on an isle formed by the Chao Phraya, Lop Buri and Pa Sak rivers. While the rivers form a natural moat, idyllic streams and gurgling canals border pagodas and run along with gardens, giving the archaeological site a tranquil aura.

Cruising along Ayutthaya’s waterways, it is easy to picture the once-prosperous city.

With an abundance of architectural masterpieces, ingenious creations of local art and a meticulously-planned system of waterways, Ayutthaya is one of Thailand’s most fascinating tourist destinations and a beautiful UNESCO World Heritage Site. Strolling through the temple-filled lanes, climbing the stairs of monasteries or sailing down the mighty Chao Phraya river will leave you baffled at the splendour of this historic destination.

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TakeOff

STEPPING OUT OF INDORE Known mostly for its street food and palaces, Indore is surrounded by lakes, dams and waterfalls. This month, as the city celebrates the unique Rangpanchami festival, plan a trip.

Words Namita Kumar

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March 2022

This award-winning photograph captures Rangpanchami, a unique festival of colours that is celebrated in Indore five days after Holi. A tradition that was started by the Holkar rulers, during this festival, colours are mixed with water and then sprayed on the gathered crowd. A great cannon spouts coloured water into the air and onto the celebrating multitude.

The cannon travels a set route through the centre of the city as people walk or dance along. This year, Holi will be celebrated on March 18 and Rangpanchami, on March 22.

Photo: Sudhanshu Tiwari

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Try to reach Gulawat lake early, preferably by sunrise, when the light is at its best and the forested landscape and the lake look magical.

A bustling commercial hub. An erstwhile queen's stronghold. A culinary paradise. And one of India's cleanest cities with a pleasant weather.

Indore, in the heart of India, is all these and more.

An important trading centre between Delhi and Deccan in the 16th century, Indore was the stronghold of legendary queen Ahilya Bai Holkar, who developed it to become the largest city in Madhya Pradesh. Today, history and modernity rub shoulders in this smart city, as swanky flyovers and tree-lined pathways co-exist with opulent palaces, revered temples and intricate chhatris (cenotaphs).

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A pair of sarus cranes walking on a lotus carpet at Gulawat Lake

water bodies in the city, where the beautiful National Flower of India grows in abundance.

A part of the backwaters of Yashwant Sagar Dam, the Gulawat lake is a slice of heaven, often compared to Kashmir!

While there are many tourist spots in Indore, what's equally fascinating is that this land-locked city is surrounded by lakes, dams and waterfalls that make for refreshing day trips.

In winter and spring, when the lotuses are in full bloom, the lake is a mesmeric sight. A 100-metre-long bridge over the lake offers the best vantage point for photographs.

Enjoy walks along the serene lake and through a bamboo grove adjacent to it. In winter, you can also spot several migratory birds.

Enjoy boating, horse rides, cycling and open jeep rides at the lake. Other than tourists, the lake is a favourite destination for nature photographers and couples looking for a perfect backdrop for their pre-wedding album!

Gulawat A hidden paradise around 24 km from Indore is the Gulawat Lotus Lake, one of the largest

The Yashwant Sagar Dam on the Gambhir river is around 10 km from this lake and makes for a good picnic spot.

March 2022

Choral Dam The tranquil Choral Dam is located about 40 km from Indore around the backwaters of the Narmada river. Surrounded by lush greenery, Choral Dam makes for an exciting short getaway. While there are several water sports facilities on offer, it is equally fascinating to just relax under the bright blue sky, listen to the calming ripples of the water and the chirping of unknown birds. You can also enjoy a walk through the forests. If you want to spend a night, book yourself into the resort run by Madhya Pradesh Tourism, and do stay ready to witness the sunset and sunrise over the Narmada.

Just 15 km from the dam is the Patalpani waterfall, where silvery water drops from a height of approximately 300 feet.

Photos: Sudhanshu Tiwari

Sailani Island Around 80 km from Indore is hidden one of Madhya Pradesh's best-kept secrets.

Complete with swinging greens, calm blue waters and a secluded resort that offers a variety of water sports, Sailani Tapu is unbelievably idyllic. Located on the bank of River Narmada and Omkareshwar Dam in Khandwa district, Sailani Island is a spot of serenity that's apt for a tranquil stay.

The green island is home to several species of birds, and offers stunning sunset and sunrise views.

Photo courtesy: Madhya Pradesh

Try such water sports as speed boating, water scooter rides and jet skiing or just enjoy a lazy cruise along the river. The popular Omkareshwar Jyotirlinga shrine is 10 km from here.

Tourism

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What to see

Sirpur Lake This huge lake, one of the largest in Indore, is known as much for its tranquil beauty as for the flocks of birds that can be spotted here, especially during winter. Constructed in the 20th century, by the Holkar dynasty rulers, the lake sprawls across approximately 800 acre, and is marked under the Important Bird Areas (IBAs) of India. Pack a picnic basket and enjoy a day out by the water.

There is a lot to see in Indore, including the Kanch Mandir, which is made entirely of glass and mirrors and the luxurious Lal Bagh Palace, an iconic 19th-century neo-classical palace built by the Holkars.

The palace is known for its Europeaninfluenced interiors and its gardens.

Another attraction is the Rajwada Palace built by the Holkars about two centuries ago. This sevenstoreyed grand structure is located near the royal cenotaphs.

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March 2022

An immaculate landscaped garden area adjacent to the lake offers a nice green spot to sit and enjoy the view. Plan to catch either a sunrise or a sunset from here.

IndiGo to INDORE www.goindigo.in

What to eat Known as India's street food capital, you can spend an entire day feasting in Indore. Start with tea and a cityspecial breakfast - poha 'jalebi' . For lunch, try dal-bafle, a traditional lentil preparation. In the afternoon, head to the city's most popular eating hub Chhappan Dukan for khopra patties, unique sandwiches and much more. If you are still hungry, walk over to the night food lane at Sarafa Bazaar, just 4 km from Chhappan Dukan.

How do you picture a pilot?

Cool aviators. Looking sharp.

Probably a man, right?

A ‘woman pilot’ is just as cool, but complimenting her for being a ‘pilot’ is way cooler.

Because, no one is thankful to be complimented for their gender.

So, when you think of a ‘pilot’ next time, think of absolutely anyone cool.

And say ‘no thank you’ to outdated compliments. #MarchOn for equality.

GirlPower

Hello Captain Cool On this International Women's Day (March 8), we bring you the inspiring success stories of three pilots from India's coolest airline. It just so happens that they are women! #MarchOn for equality.

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March 2022

Captain VRUSHALI BHANDARKAR

THE FLIGHT OF A FIGHTER "Mom, how do birds fly?" This was the question I would always ask my mother when I was a young girl, growing up in Amalner, a village in Maharashtra. Today, even after 35 years and more than a decade of taking to the skies, these words reverberate in my ears, reminding me of my childhood dream to fly. Every time I sit in an airplane, I recall the countless evenings I spent at Mumbai’s Juhu Beach trying to spot an airplane.

But my journey from a girl yearning to fly, to a pilot with IndiGo, has not been an easy one. As a child, my life was bound by conservative social norms. Achieving my goal of becoming a pilot seemed not only unconventional but impossible!

Disregarding every challenge and supported by my parents, I enrolled at the Bombay Flying Club. Then I moved to Ahmedabad Aviation & Aeronautics for my Commercial Pilot License in the late 1990s.

Years of hard work and dedication paid off when I chartered my first commercial flight – an ATR72 – in 2006. After flying ATR42/72 for six years, I joined IndiGo Airlines on January 26, 2012. This year marks a decade of my association with the airline and I could not be in a happier place.

IndiGo constantly supports its staff, especially women, irrespective of departments - ground staff or flight crew.

We are ensured ample time to strike a balance between our career and homes.

Be it encouraging us to pursue our hobbies by offering various leave programmes or weekly off policies for mothers along with maternity leaves – IndiGo stands by its women employees in the face of any adversity, whether personal or professional.

In fact, I received unconditional support from the airline while I was undergoing intensive treatment for breast cancer. It is with IndiGo Airlines that I was promoted to the rank of captain!

39

FROM AIR FORCE TO INDIGO I was in Class VIII when I decided to become an Air Force pilot. But as ambitious as my dream was, at that time women’s entry in the Indian Air Force had not begun. It was also thought of as an unconventional career choice. But I was determined. I excelled in athletics in school – was a national level volleyball player and a part of the NCC unit in Nagpur. My dedication paid off when I cleared the SSB exam in 1998 and became a part of the Air Force.

The Air Force comes with its set of challenges. In 1999, the Kargil War broke out and I participated as a transport pilot.

We carried materials and artillery to the border. In 2001, when Bhuj was destroyed by an earthquake, I was a part of the rescue mission. In the Air Force, a pilot's life is very tough – we literally slept under the wing of an aircraft and lived out of a suitcase for weeks. But the gratifying feeling is unparalleled. The fauj trains you for life! After my tenure of 10 years, I left the Air Force.

Immediately after that I lost my husband to an accident and the responsibility of raising my two young daughters was on me alone.

I flew a small chartered flight for about five years before deciding to join a commercial airline. I was clear about joining IndiGo because a lot of my seniors are associated with it – I have seen how meticulous and precise this airline is about safety. And how it goes by the rule book.

I will complete six years with IndiGo in 2022 and not once have I thought of a change because the environment here is immensely positive. The airline is extremely sensitive towards women's challenges and is always supportive. Be it family issues or problems at work – one word to your fleet supervisor and the situation is taken care of. That is the kind of assurance that IndiGo gives to its staff.

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March 2022

Captain SHIVANI KULKARNI

Captain MEENAKSHI THE PROMISE I MADE TO MYSELF Born into an orthodox family that hails from a village in the interiors of Haryana, I have witnessed numerous instances of social injustice and gender discrimination. At a very young age, I had decided to fight this bias and after two decades I can proudly say that I have been successful!

One afternoon, during my days at Banasthali University (Rajasthan), that for the first time in my life I saw an aircraft preparing for take-off. I was more amazed when I realised that a young girl was in the cockpit. That day I found the purpose of my life – to become a pilot and encourage my younger sisters and other young girls in my village to think beyond boundaries created by the patriarchal society.

Be it arranging for funds by selling property and appearing for examinations, to finding the right flying school and months of unemployment after obtaining my Commercial Pilot License, I have faced multiple challenges. It was only sheer determination and the untiring support of my family that kept me going.

Today, I have not only made my parents proud of me, but I have also set an example for young girls in my village to follow. I was the proudest when I took a few elderly residents from my village on an IndiGo flight from Delhi to Jaipur on my birthday and came first in a marathon organised by the Indian Women Pilots' Association. But there is still an important task left - to change the mindset of my village and subsequently of rural India. This is just the beginning of my journey to achieve that goal.

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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 Ahmedabad, India, in one corner and Guangzhou, China, in another.

AHMEDABAD

GUANGZHOU UANGZHOU

History lesson Adalaj Stepwell was built by king Mahmud Begada in the 15th century, for Rudabai (Roopba), the wife of a local chieftain. The vav (stepwell in Gujarati) boasts stunning stone carving and is said to be the only of its kind with three sets of entrance stairs.

Lotus Mountain, located beside the Shiziyang Sea at the mouth of the Pearl river, is known for its natural landscape. A National Key Cultural Relic Protection Unit, it is known for the Swallow Crag and the Lion Stone among other attractions.

Foodie tales No visit to Ahmedabad is complete without savouring a taste of such traditional Gujarati delicacies as gathiya, fafda, jalebi, thepla, khakhra, khandvi, handvo, patra and shrikhand. Fluffy dhoklas are one of the most-loved Gujarati snacks and are relished across the coun country.

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March 2022

It is often said uangzhou that Guangzhou has the country's largest number of restaurants per capita.

It is also famous as the birthplace of Cantonese cuisine. Do uangsha not miss the Huangsha Seafood Market, hina's largest seafood China's wholesale market!

IndiGo to Ahmedabad and Guangzhou www.goindigo.in

Heritage walks Embark on a heritage walk called 'Mandir se Masjid tak'. This two-kilometrelong walk, begins from the Swaminarayan temple in the Kalupur area and ends at the Jami Masjid in the Teen Darwaza area. The walk also crosses Calico dome, the original site of Calico Mill, which fell in the 2001 quake and is being reconstructed.

Start the heritage tour by visiting the Shishi Sacred Heart Catholic Church, one of the oldest of its kind in the city.

From there, go to the Museum of the Mausoleum of the Nanyue King, a historic spot. The last stop is the Sun Yat Sen Nanyang Memorial Hall, a national monument.

Shopping galore The vibrant Law Garden area is perfect for some shopping in the evening. Open till late at night, the market has stalls that sell traditional Gujarati clothes and handicrafts. Make sure you bargain!

Guangzhou accommodates countless huge markets specialising in almost any made-inChina products, including Chinese tea, herbs, garments, watches, electronics and toys.

Explore Beijing Road's shops for retail therapy and street food.

For adventure junkies Experience Dandi March in the footsteps of Gandhiji, starting from Sabarmati Ashram in Ahmedabad.

In 1930, Mahatma Gandhi had embarked on the 390-km walk from Sabarmati Ashram to Dandi, to protest against the British

The city’s tallest structure, Canton Tower, also known as Guangzhou Tower, stands at 600 m and offers a breathtaking panorama. Do take the bubble tram ride, in which cabins rotate smoothly along a track at Canton Tower, offering adventure and great sightseeing!

Recommendation: To witness the changing landscape of Ahmedabad, visit the Ahmedabad Riverfront that has long walkways.

Ten bridges span the Pearl River in Guangzhou decorated by colourful shining neon lights in the night, that look like rainbows.

43

MyCity MyWay

'Delhi

is my happy place' As he gears up to lead Indian golfers at the inaugural DGC Open in Delhi, Arjuna Award recipient and ace golfer Shiv Kapur shares a few memories of golfing and relishing butter chicken in his hometown.

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March 2022

SHIV KAPUR

For the affable sportsman, golf has guided all the major decisions in his life, ever since he was a child growing up in Delhi. From training at Delhi Golf Club to choosing Purdue over Harvard for higher studies, this Asian Games gold medallist (2002) says golf is what he has lived for. A professional golfer, he was awarded the Arjuna Award (Arjuna Awards are given by the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, Government of India, to recognise outstanding achievement in sports) in 2002, and made a memorable debut at the US Open in 2014. Here's what Shiv Kapur has to say about his days in Delhi, its golfing culture and its food!

Delhi Life I was born in Delhi and while I may not live in the city any more (Kapur has recently moved to Dubai), it's still home.

As a teenager, I started playing at the Delhi Golf Club and the rolling greens of the club will always hold a very special place in my heart. The Delhi Golf Club is where I learnt the game and even today when I return, I feel welcomed.

All my close friends and family are in Delhi and I really enjoy going back. It's my happy place.

The city's golfing traditions During my initial years in Delhi, I was lucky to have interacted with a lot of good golfers at the Delhi Golf Club. The best tournaments in the country were held in Delhi and that gave youngsters like me the opportunity to see and learn from master players. I was extremely lucky to have had access to some of the best names in the game, like Gaurav Ghei and Daniel Chopra. Both these players have shared their knowledge of the game with me.

What to see Delhi has so much history and architectural heritage, it's always a pleasure to show off the city to visitors!. If I had to take anyone on a tour of Delhi, I would want them to start the day with a morning Segway or bicycle ride from Rashtrapati Bhavan to India Gate and then head to Khan Market for breakfast and a bit of shopping. Lunch can be at Khan Chacha’s (Khan Market) and then a drive to Qutab Minar. End the day with a sunset view and dinner at one of the fine restaurants near Qutab Minar.

When we used to live in Delhi, I would take my daughter (Veda) around the city to acquaint her with its history.

A taste of the city I'm a big foodie and Delhi has some of the best street-food choices in the world.

What I miss the most is the butter chicken from Moti Mahal (restaurant).

45

sports person

briefing DGC Open

The prestigious Asian Tour is set to return to India after nearly two years with the inaugural Delhi Golf Club Open to be held at the Delhi Golf Club in March 2022. To be held at the newly renovated Lodhi Course, it has a prize money of USD 500,000. Several leading Indian golfers are expected to participate (including Shiv Kapur and Gaurav Ghei).

Delhi

Favourite golfing destination in the world

46

There are several courses in the world I love and enjoy for different reasons but if I had to pick one, it would have to be Scotland for its history, tradition and the style of golf courses.

A golfer's journey is incomplete without a golfing trip to Scotland, which is known as the home of golf.

Favourite nongolfing getaway Bali is my favourite holiday destination. Its vibe always recharges my batteries. For me, it's the perfect place to unwind.

March 2022

Golf & travel Globally, golf has been a very effective tool to promote tourism. Travel also makes the game more accessible, for example the masterclasses that I will be hosting with Marriott Bonvoy for its members to engage and enjoy the game.

Most memorable tournament My most memorable tournament would have to be the British Open Championship in 2013. As a kid, I had always dreamt of seeing my name up on the leaderboard of a major championship especially The Open and on day one I held the lead in the tournament and that memory will stay with me forever. (Kapur shot a stunning six-under 64 on a rainy afternoon in the second round of the 36-hole qualifier to earn a berth at the 2013 British Open).

Lady in Focus SIRISHA BANDLA Aeronautical engineer

Girl Power Flying high

In July 2021, aeronautical engineer and commercial astronaut Sirisha Bandla became the third Indian-origin woman to fly into space (after Kalpana Chawla and Sunita Williams). She was one of the six crew members aboard Richard Branson's Virgin Galactic flight, which flew to the edge of space before returning to Earth. Bandla, who was born in Guntur, Andhra Pradesh, was brought up in Houston, USA, and was astronaut No 004 and her flight role was Researcher Experience.

Vignette

Just one picture!

An Asiatic lion at the Sasan Gir National Park, Gujarat.

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March 2022

Tapan Sheth is an Indian nature and wildlife photographer, and artist.

He has received several awards for his photographs, notably claiming the first prize as Nature's Best Photography Asia 2016. He is well known for his photography of Asiatic lions in Gir National Park, Gujarat.

He has studied them over the years and has been able to click several memorable images, recording their unique behaviour.

His clicks of the majestic creature became the first-ever Indian photograph of an Asiatic lion to have been displayed at the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History, Washington DC, USA. He says he likes spending his time close to nature as it gives him the opportunity to explore wildlife and its different emotions. He adds, "Sasan Gir is my second home and one that is very close to my heart"!

Surreal

Journey into the Wild On the occasion of the annual World Wildlife Day (March 3), we feature some of the best captures by celebrated Indian wildlife photographers, who not only pursue their passion for the wild and its inhabitants but also aim to raise awareness about the sensitive forest ecosystem.

TAPAN SHETH Wildlife photographer 49

SHIVANG MEHTA Wildlife photographer and author

Best-selling author of A Decade with Tigers and Chasing Horizons: Learnings from Africa, and coauthor of Leopards & Shepherds of JAWAI, Shivang Mehta is an international award-winning wildlife photographer. He is an Associate Fellow of the International League of Conservation Photographers (iLCP).

His love for wildlife and nature led him to begin his on-field

career in the Sal forests of Kumaon, Uttarakhand, nearly two decades ago. As a part of his company Nature Wanderers, he has conducted over 1,000 wildlife photography tours and safaris in some of the toughest terrains of the globe. He specialises in photographing such rare species as the clouded leopard, the snow leopard, the fishing cat and the red panda, to name just a few.

Hands off please!

Two tigers play-fighting at Bandhavgarh National Park, Madhya Pradesh

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March 2022

May I have this dance?

Indian darter at Keoladeo National Park (Bharatpur), Rajasthan

RATHIKA RAMASAMY Wildlife photographer Rathika Ramasamy is arguably one of India's foremost wildlife photographers. She is passionate about birds and specialises in clicking them. Her work has been appreciated and featured in several national and international publications as well as exhibitions.

She is a founder member of Wildlife Conservation of India (WCI) and has served on the jury panel of numerous national and international photography awards and contests, including the National Awards for Photography in 2017 and 2018.

She believes that watching birds and animals in their natural habitat is an experience that is beyond explanation. Her favourite destination is the Jim Corbett National Park in Uttarakhand, which, she believes is one of the most beautiful and well-maintained tiger reserves in India.

51

Come to me babies!

A father gharial guarding baby gharials in the waters of the Chambal river, Madhya Pradesh

DHRITIMAN MUKHERJEE Wildlife photographer 52

March 2022

One of India’s most accomplished nature and wildlife photographers, Dhritiman Mukherjee, is an explorer and wanderer. He has trekked to the farthest reaches of the Himalayas in search of the elusive snow leopard, spent years tracking down the brown bear and the extremely elusive western tragopan in the wild.

He started off as a wildlife photographer owing to his pure love

for nature and outdoor activities but over the years, his work has slowly changed discourse to wildlife conservation. Today, he spends more than 300 days in the wild!

In the last 20 years, he has been bestowed with many honours, including the Carl Zeiss Wildlife Conservation Award, the RBS Earth Hero Award, the Vasundhara Mitra Award and many others.

TRIKANSH SHARMA Wildlife photographer

Trikansh Sharma is a wildlife photographer and a photography mentor and coach. He uses his camera to express his love for nature and share different stories with the world to raise awareness towards wildlife conservation.

He is passionate about photographing animals in their natural element and habitat. His favourite photography

destinations are the Rajaji Tiger Reserve and the Jim Corbett National Park, both in Uttarakhand.

In 2018, he was honoured with the National Geographic's Travel Photographer for the Year award. His works have been featured in some of the leading national and international publications, including Discovery and BBC Earth.

Now where is that rabbit?

An elongated tortoise photographed in the outskirts of the Rajaji Tiger Reserve in Uttarakhand

53

SUMER VERMA Underwater photographer and cinematographer

Hey human, wanna race?

A snorkler swimming gracefully alongside a whale shark in the Philippines

Sumer Verma is one of India's most celebrated underwater visualisers. With over 25 years of photography experience and hundreds of dives, his love for the ocean remains undeterred. His desire to capture the beauty that lies close to the ocean floor and his love for diving have brought him where he is today - an awardwinning underwater photographer and documentary filmmaker.

Following his passion, Verma has travelled the world - right from exploring the waters of the Andaman Islands and the Lakshwadeep archipelago (India) to the vibrant corals of the Raja Ampat Islands in Indonesia. He still rates his experiences from the Galápagos Islands, an archipelago in the Pacific Ocean, as his favourite as there, he swam with over 100,000 hammerhead sharks!

Lady in Focus LEENA NAIR Gobal CEO, Chanel

Girl Power

Fashion forward Indian-origin corporate honcho Leena Nair has become the first female and the youngest ever global CEO of the French luxury fashion house Chanel. Nair started her career as a management trainee at a global consumer goods major and steadily rose through the ranks to become the “first female, first Asian, youngest ever” Chief Human Resources Officer at the company. Born in Kolhapur, Maharashtra, this British national has been featured in Fortune magazine’s 2021 list of most powerful women.

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

HAPPINESS

March 20, 2022

Sharing the smile!

Let us take a moment to think about the little things that light up our lives. Established by the UN in 2012, International Happiness Day has a different theme every year. This year, the theme is 'Build Back Happier'. The day is organised to celebrate the idea of 'happiness' as a fundamental right. It is a gentle reminder to value the little things in life that we do to keep ourselves happy.

5Ways

One Place

Explore Chandigarh, one of India's first planned cities, resting near the foothills of the Shivalik Range.

Viewpoint

IndiGo to Chandigarh. www.goindigo.in

HISTORY

CAPITOL COMPLEX

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Capitol Complex boasts three major components, namely the Assembly (Legislation), the Secretariat (Administration) and the High Court (Judiciary). Take a walk along the road to visit the Tower of Shadows, Martyr's Memorial and the iconic Open Hand Monument.

GOVERNMENT MUSEUM AND ART GALLERY

Designed by Le Corbusier, the Government Museum and Art Gallery is set against the backdrop of the Shivalik range.

Its rich collection of Gandhara art and sculptures continues to attract history buffs to the city.

LE CORBUSIER CENTRE

This part of the city consists of the former offices of Le Corbusier and his team. The architect's office, currently named Le Corbusier Centre, is one of the earliest buildings constructed in Chandigarh. It includes photos of Le Corbusier and his team.

2

SUKHNA LAKE

The pristine waters of Sukhna Lake has its admirers all over India. Its tranquil waters and verdant surroundings can be best admired with a boat ride. It features on every traveller's bucket list.

ADVENTURE

ADVENTURE PARK, MORNI HILLS

For adrenaline junkies, the Adventure Park at Morni Hills is a must visit. Experience a wide array of activities ranging from ziplining through the verdant vistas to rock climbing the course set up at the park. You can also enjoy the thrill of crossing the Burma Bridge among other activities.

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March 2022

3

GARDEN OF SILENCE

HERITAGE

ROCK GARDEN

Also known as Nek Chand's Rock Garden, this is one of the most eco-friendly parks of its kind in the country having being built solely with homewaste and industrial items. Spread over 40 acre of land, it boasts stunning sculptures made with such discarded objects as ceramics, tiles, bottles and electrical waste.

GARG CHAAT, SECTOR 23

One of the oldest and popular chaat shops in Chandigarh. Apart from the traditional delicacies like papri and gol gappe, it also offers tandoori preparations like soya chaap and paneer tikka.

At the end of the winsome Sukhna Lake is the aesthetic meditation park known as the Garden of Silence.

A seated statue of Lord Buddha in the centre and the beautiful architecture of the park will leave you in spiritual bliss.

SHASTRI MARKET, SECTOR 22-D

The street market is the perfect place for budget shopping. The market is known for its wide and varied collections of accessories, clothes, handicrafts and jewellery.

4 5 FOOD

SHOPPING

PAL DHABA, SECTOR 28

There is no better way to experience Punjabi cuisine than sitting in a dhaba.

Gorge on delicious butter chicken with butter roti, relish the butter-soaked aloo paranthas or its famous meat curries along with an asas sorted combination of flatbreads.

Home to some of the biggest brands, the Sector 17 market is always flocked by avid shoppers. Offering a range of products - from bridal trousseaus to the latest collection of dresses and electronics. The highlight is surely the beautiful fountain show held in the evenings.

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Green Intentions

How a village saved its forests Khonoma in Nagaland is known as India's first Green Village. But the sustainable journey of this centuries-old settlement wasn't easy and is an example of a community's determination to save its natural heritage.

Words Smaranika Chakraborty

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March 2022

A serene drive of around 20 km from Nagaland's capital Kohima, passing through craggy mountains and rolling green fields will bring you to Khonoma, a quaint village tucked away in the picturesque Dzukou Valley. Surrounded by a thick canopy of natural green and towering mountains, Khonoma is home to a rich variety of flora and fauna. With lush green fields and silvery waterfalls, the centuries-old village, inhabited mostly by members of the Angami tribe, is picture-perfect!

But that's not this culturally-rich village's only claim to fame. Known as India’s first Green Village, Khonoma is an apt example of a community's sustained efforts to restore its environment. It's a success story of environmental conservation spear-headed by villagers. Today, looking at the clean village surrounded by bountiful forests, it's hard to imagine that a couple of decades ago, it was close to an ecological disaster brought on by hunting and logging.

In the 1990s, in a hunting contest, the residents of the village, who hunt as a tradition, killed an unprecedented number of animals and birds, including hundreds of Blyth's Tragopan, the state bird of Nagaland and an endangered species.

This heart-wrenching incident awakened a sense of concern among the elders of the village towards preserving the surrounding forests. Soon, the village council formed the Khonoma Nature Conservation and Tragopan Sanctuary (KNCTS) for the conservation of Blythe’s Tragopan and other varieties of fauna. An area was designated as the sanctuary and hunting and logging were completely banned.

Villagers were educated about sustainability and nature-friendly agricultural practices were encouraged. And for those who refuse to conform, heavy penalties were, and continue to be levied. Over the years, as agriculture became the primary source of village livelihood, forests were restored,

The villagers are educated about sustainability and follow naturefriendly agricultural practices

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along with wildlife. Today, the dense forests are home to exotic species of plants, many of which have medicinal benefits. The steadfast efforts of the villagers were fruitful, and in 2005, the village was awarded the 'Green Village' tag by the Government of India.

Stay in one of the cosy homestays Go on long walks around the village Enjoy nature trips

Though a tourist hotspot today, Khonoma's green journey continues.

International environmentalists are invited to interact with and educate villagers and seminars are conducted on ecological innovations. The Students’ Council of Khonoma village too has pitched in and even children are made aware of the benefits of coexisting with nature.

Explore the Khonoma Fort

Mark Angelo Drive to nearby settlements like the serene Dzuleke village

Fly to Dimapur, from where Khonoma is around 75 km away

What's unique The village is preserving about 70 sq km of community forests Farmers in Khonoma use a form of shifting (jhum) cultivation, in which they change the land for farming for two years For fertile soil, they use Nepal alder (Alnus nepalensis) trees interspersed with the crops The village has been placed on the tourism map of the country and attracts wildlife enthusiasts, birders, conservationists, researchers and tourists

-researchgate.net

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March 2022

Green is the sky As a part of its journey towards sustainable aviation, IndiGo recently added to its fleet the first aircraft from Airbus that operates on Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF). The A320 NEO is the first international flight operated by any Indian carrier using SAF. In December, 2021, IndiGo had inked an agreement with the Dehradun-based Council of Scientific and Industrial Research-Indian Institute of Petroleum (CSIR-IIP) to manufacture and deploy SAF globally. IndiGo endeavours to be an anchor partner to such institutes and oil refining companies to address the issue of carbon emissions and take a lead in demonstrating its commitment towards sustainable and responsible growth.

Besides this, IndiGo is also working on fleet modernisation, implementing weight reduction measures on board, optimising flight routes, improving flight operations and following fuel-efficient best practices to reduce the consumption of aviation turbine fuel.

IndiGo Green Environment Social Governance A320 Neo aircraft of IndiGo are 15% more fuel efficient than the previous generation A320 CEO aircraft, thereby reducing emissions in the environment.

IndiGo has had a steady drop in its carbon footprint since FY '17.

In FY '23, IndiGo aims to reduce CO2 emissions by 18% per seat kilometre, compared to FY '16.

IndiGo is operating its A320/321 NEO Fleet with quieter engines, resulting in 50% reduction in noise.

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

41%

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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

66

March 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

67

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

68

March 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

69

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

70

March 2022

*T&C apply

Just what kids want

6E Merchandise

Sing anywhere anytime!

Soccer Time High quality football offering optimum response and feel

Easy to Pair with Your Laptops, Smartphones and Tablets

Ideal gift for football fans, kids or collectors

Easy to charge with USB cable Portable All-In-One Karaoke System Microphone + Speaker + Mixer + Lighting connects

6 Month

Contains 1 wireless party mic

Party Mic M.R.P.

`2990

6 Month Contains 1 football

Fine quality football

IndiGo Price

`1699

M.R.P.

`1499

IndiGo Price

`999

Augmented reality globe Adds fun to learning by merging a physical globe with Augmented Reality Explore the world with 400+ highlights and 1000+ cool facts across 6 categories - cultures, cuisines, monuments, inventions, animals and map

6 Month

Contains 1 augmented reality globe

Shifu Orboot Augmented Reality globe

M.R.P.

`1999

IndiGo Price

`1599

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 Hamleys & support@hamleys.in, 8080 847 847. If there is any complaint related to the performance of any product, the same shall be governed by the standard warranty conditions of Hamleys and the product will be repaired or replaced as may be required and the sole discretion of the Hamleys. 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 Hamleys, as may be applicable.

Steps to purchase:

Buy products at www.hamleys.in or at Airport Arrival stores

or WhatsApp 'HAMLEYS'

63 63 13 63 63

Pay and get products delivered at your doorstep

Hamleys is present at Delhi/Mumbai/Bangalore & Ahmedabad airports. The above mentioned prices are applicable at these airport stores only.

To get flat 12% discount on a wide range of products visit www.hamleys.in and use Promo code "INDIGO12". Offer valid till March 31, '22

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.

Cool merchandise exclusively for IndiGo passengers

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.

74

March 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 31st March 2022.

Whatsapp 'TIFFIN' to apply Ka-ching credit card

63 63 13 63 63 T&C apply.

75

Let’s IndiGo Booking direct comes with more benefits!

Lowest Booking Fee

Zero Convenience Fee on Cancellation

Hold & Pay Later

Multiple Fare Options

*T&C apply.

Scan now to book direct.

Follow us on IndiGo.6e

IndiGo

IndiGo6E

6EIndiGoCarGo

IndiGo

(InterGlobe Aviation Ltd)

All items on this page are only available for pre-book.

Flat 20% cashback* on snacks and beverages with Ka-ching credit card!

Sandwiches

Chicken Tikka Sandwich / 200gm ‡ 425/ USD 6

Missed the snack trolley? You can still buy snacks at any time, until we start preparation for landing. Just ask our cabin crew.

Cucumber Tomato Cheese and Lettuce Sandwich / 200gm ‡ 400/ USD 5

Chicken Cucumber Tomato Sandwich / 200gm ‡ 425/ USD 6

Chicken Junglee Sandwich / 200gm ‡ 425/ USD 6

Paneer Tikka Sandwich / 200gm ‡ 400/ USD 5

*Terms and conditions apply. Prices in INR and USD are valid for domestic and international flights respectively.

Get up to 15% discount* when you pre -book these items online.

Munchies Cashew Nuts in a collectible, reusable tin (Salted) / 50gm ‡ 150/USD 2

Flat 20% cashback* on snacks and beverages with Ka-ching credit card!

Cookies in a collectible, reusable tin (Chocolate Chip) / 75gm ‡ 100/USD 2

Makhana New Himalayan Salt & Pepper (No onion, no garlic) / 40gm ‡ 150/USD 2

Trail Mix New Cashew nuts, almonds, pistachios, cranberries, raisins, coconut flakes, pumpkin seeds / 50gm

Health Bar (Choco Oat/Amla) (2 bars/pack)** / 60gm ‡ 100/USD 2

‡ 200/USD 3

Sugar-free Cookies in a collectible, reusable tin (Multigrain) / 50gm ‡ 100/USD 2

Banana Chips Classic Salted / 50gm ‡ 100/USD 2

Smoked Almonds in a collectible, reusable tin / 50gm ‡ 150/USD 2

Corn Nuts / 50gm ‡ 150/USD 2

**Available

only on domestic flights.

Prices in INR and USD are valid for domestic and international flights respectively.

Smirnoff Red 5cl.

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

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

#indigo6e @lekha_badarinath

#6EExplorer

#LetsIndiGo Featuring facets of IndiGo destinations from travellers' perspective. Share pictures on Instagram, tag @indigo.6e and get featured here!

2021 was a pretty damn good year.

Oh there were so many lows, I know there were, but I don't remember them. All I remember are the good times and the lessons that the bad times had to teach. #solo #solotraveler #solotravel #goa #udaipur #rajasthan #travel #travelphotography #nature #ocean #oceanwaves #natgeo #natgeoyourshot #natgeotravel #natgeotravelindiaindia

#indigo6e @shifali4150 Every Picture says a different story like situations and phases in life. #thankful #greatful #greatfulheart #unitedbyemotion #gratitude #instagood #instagram #insta #inspire #inspired #focus #focusonyourself #focusongoals #onedirection #lifequotes #united #queen #highness #live #liveit #keepgoing

@adarsh.vikram

@ganesh_payyanur “Elegance is the only beauty that never fades.” – Audrey Hepburn.

@photowalascientist

#yourshotindia #indiaphotographyclub #india_undiscovered #photographers_ of_india #world_photography_hub #birdsofinstagram #gallery_of_india #hindustanpictures #myindianphoto #trailsofindia #travulls #travelrealindia #attractivepicturesofficial #photowalascientist #birdsphotography #scenic #serene #sky #flight #travel

@tealgirltales Stop and smell the ocean #HoneymoonDiaries #traveldiaries #travelsrilanka #srilankatrip #srilanka #thalpe #tropicalvibes #beachlife #diariesofrach #tealgirltales

86

March 2022

The Journey of Heritage 🇮🇮 Click by @adarsh.vikram Camera: @sonyalphain Flight: @indigo.6e #xposurexpf ##spicollective @instagram #bbcearth #hellofrom #bnwmood #indianframes #indianphotography #indianphotos #indiatravelgram #india #travelrealindia #lonleyplanats #cynosure #streetphotography #streetphotographersmagazine #streetfoodindia #i_hobbygraphy #i_hobbyphotography #othallofframe #aperture #natgeoyourshot #natgeotravel #worldphotography #world #tripotocommunity #photo4everofficial

Lady in Focus

Girl Power

Music of success Indian-American Anjali Sud, who was appointed the CEO of Vimeo, a videostreaming platform, in 2017, has been praised for reinventing the company.

Sud, born in Detroit, USA, to Indian parents, who had relocated to the United States, has said that she had faced a train of rejections before Vimeo.

Her career advice is to look smartly where nobody else is looking and that failure is essential to success!

ANJALI SUD CEO, Vimeo

Starting from introductory price of INR 5999/-#

Visit www.goindiGo.in to book packages.

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