Spiceroute june 2015

THE INFLIGHT MAGAZINE

Volume IX | Issue VI | June 2015

www.spiceroutemag.com

32 66 74

SPECTACULAR MALÉ Explore the pristine beaches & unwind in style

THE KING KHAN Bollywood’s Badshah shares his love for travelling

SUMMER DELIGHT Stay cool with yoghurtbased drinks

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Delhi/NCR-South Extension Ph: (011) 41648266, 9560591050/60/, Okhla - (011) 46436638, Kirti Nagar - (011) 42280444, 98715 98 73454 4052666, 9560591066/67 9560591066/67, Ahmedabad Ph: (079) 40082552 40082552, 9724048821 9724048821, 97 9724328821, Noida- 9560591068, 9560591068 Gurgaon-Ph: (0124) 4052666 Baroda Ph: 09560591067, 9724048821 Bangalore Ph:(080) 41710192, 9980075555, 9945355377, Chandigarh Ph: (172) 4613109, 08288000201, Chennai Ph: (044) 32406677, 9560591059 Hyderabad Ph: (040) 66663360, 40110154, 8099106929, 9560591059, Jaipur Ph: (141) 5119599, 9928888833, 8769661000, Udayapur Ph: 9928888833 Lucknow Ph (0522) 4109378, 8756699901, Mumbai Ghatkopar 09930182364, 9619857872, 8879330996 Linking Road Ph: (022)26049086, 9619857875/76, Worli Ph: (022) 67363324, 9167301112, Pune Ph: (020) 41280152, 8600018620, 8600018624 Head Office / Corporate Showroom: OSIM India - A Division of Paramount Surgimed Ltd., 1, L.S.C., Okhla Indl Area, Phase-II, New Delhi - 110020; Tel: 011-46436631/32, 09560770120, webshop@osimindia.com sales@osimindia.com, www.OSIM.com

FROM THE COO’S DESK Dear SpiceJet customer, SpiceJet, the airline that has transformed air travel in India by making it more affordable for more Indians than ever before, and under new ownership since February 2015, is back in the black! We achieved a net profit for the quarter ending March 2015, after a gap of 7 quarters. We are strongly on track to repeat and accelerate the performance going forward. This is good news for you, as a healthy and revived SpiceJet is key to keeping competition alive and prices reasonable.

The revival is a result of the hard efforts of each and every SpiceJet team member and we, as management, cannot thank them enough. Even more fundamentally, we cannot thank YOU, dear customer, enough as you stood by us through thick and thin and helped us get back to profitability. We realise it is you who determine our fortunes, and we will never lose sight of that!

On May 23, we turned 10! Yes, we have completed a decade of flying, a decade of changing Indian aviation through our innovations. We are the second oldest private airline operating in India today. To celebrate this achievement, here is a ‘Top 10’ list we put together of SpiceJet’s innovations and impact over the last 10 years: 1. Affordable fares: SpiceJet has made flying more affordable for more Indians than any other airline. Its demand stimulation methods have resulted in record growth for Indian aviation.

2. Hot meals, warm smiles: SpiceJet is the only pan-Indian low fare airline that offers hot meals (on Boeing flights longer than 75 minutes), which are of course always served with a warm smile!

3. Extensive route network: SpiceJet, as it has both larger and smaller aircraft, connects not just the big cities, but also many smaller cities that previously did not have air service.

4. SpiceMAX: The most spacious economy class seats in the sky, with more legroom than premium economy on other airlines.

And now with complimentary meal and beverage.

5. ‘Red Chilli’: India’s most iconic commercial aircraft, featuring cockpit and cabin crew as its livery! (Incidentally, we use our own crew and staff for all advertising, no models!)

6. Soft rock boarding and landing music: Steely Dan. Fleetwood Mac. Foreigner.

Crosby, Stills and Nash. The Eagles. At SpiceJet, no more of the boring instrumental music. It is a soft-rock concert instead, played softly during each departure and landing on our Boeings.

7. Weekend uniforms: Casual Indo-chic on weekends, the most trendy and colourful uniform in the Indian skies.

8. Festive spirit: Who can forget our Holi celebrations? Santa hats on Christmas?

Birthday cards and songs on-board on your birthday? Tangail saris on Durga Puja?

Serenading staff on Diwali?

9. Contributions to society: Through ‘SpiceJet Cares’, we give back to society every way we can, whether underprivileged or differently-abled children or to relief efforts in Srinagar and Nepal.

10. Keeping competition alive in the Indian skies: If not for SpiceJet, Indian customers would face the prospect of a near-monopoly in the skies. We keep competition alive!

3

Thank you for flying SpiceJet and supporting us through the years. I wish you a wonderful flight.

Sanjiv Kapoor Chief Operating Officer

GROUP

SpiceJet reports `22.5 crore net profit Returns to profitability after 7 quarters First profitable Q4 after 2010 Gurgaon, May 28, 2015: SpiceJet today reported a net profit of `22.5cr for Q4FY15, a turnaround from the net loss of `321.5cr for the same quarter last year. On an EBITDA basis, SpiceJet reported positive `80cr, against negative `235cr the previous year.

The numbers above include the benefit of renegotiated contracts and settlements, the provisioning for re-delivery expenses, and a net gain on an insurance claim.

The company, which changed hands during the quarter and is now under its original Founder-Director and now Promoter, Chairman, and Managing Director Mr. Ajay Singh, has focused on restoring operational reliability and winning back customer confidence to boost revenues, while negotiating settlements and re-negotiating several major contracts to bring down costs. The airline ended the quarter with a load factor of 81%, which is a historic high for low season, as it continued its strategy of demand stimulation to maximize revenues.

“These results indicate that a recovery is in progress, and is the first tangible evidence of the ongoing revival,” said Mr. Ajay Singh, Chairman, SpiceJet Ltd. “We are confident that we will build a world-class airline and this is the first step. We still have a lot of work to do,” he said. “Our results show the resilience of the SpiceJet brand, and the unwavering faith, passion, and commitment of each and every one of our employees. I am delighted to see the airline that I helped create this month 10 years ago starting to get back on its feet in this manner,” he added.

“I am thrilled that with the return and backing of the founder of the airline Mr. Ajay Singh, SpiceJet is clearly turning the corner. I firmly believe this is the start of what will be noted as a historic airline turnaround not just in India, but in the world,” said Mr. Sanjiv Kapoor, Chief Operating Officer, SpiceJet. “I want to thank all of our employees, lessors and other business partners, the government, and other stakeholders who stood by us to see us through to this transformational turning point,” he added.

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AWARDS & ACCOLADES i Gold award, Best Feature (English), 54th Associated Business Communicators of India (ABCI) Awards, 2014 i Gold award, Best Photography, 54th ABCI Awards, 2014 i Bronze award, Best Special Column (English), 54th ABCI Awards, 2014 i Silver for the best External Magazine, 53rd ABCI Awards, 2013 i Bronze for the Best Feature (English), 52nd ABCI Awards, 2012 i Gold for the Best Feature (English), 50th ABCI Awards, 2010 For Advertising | 91.9810192708

SPICEROUTE MAGAZINE. PRINTED AND PUBLISHED BY VIKAS JOHARI ON BEHALF OF MAXPOSURE MEDIA GROUP (INDIA) PVT. LTD. (MMGIPL) FOR SPICEJET LTD. AND PUBLISHED AT MMGIPL, UNIT NO. G-0-A (GROUND FLOOR), MIRA CORPORATE SUITES, PLOT NO 1 & 2, ISHWAR NAGAR, MATHURA ROAD, NEW DELHI-110065, INDIA. SPICEROUTE MAGAZINE IS PUBLISHED MONTHLY. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. THE WRITING, ARTWORK AND/OR PHOTOGRAPHY CONTAINED HEREIN MAY NOT BE USED OR REPRODUCED WITHOUT THE EXPRESS WRITTEN PERMISSION OF MMGIPL. MMGIPL / SPICEJET DOES NOT ASSUME RESPONSIBILITY FOR LOSS OR DAMAGE OF UNSOLICITED PRODUCTS, MANUSCRIPTS, PHOTOGRAPHS, ARTWORK, TRANSPARENCIES OR OTHER MATERIALS. THE VIEWS EXPRESSED IN THE MAGAZINE ARE NOT NECESSARILY THOSE OF THE PUBLISHER OR SPICEJET. ALL EFFORTS HAVE BEEN MADE WHILE COMPILING THE CONTENT OF THIS MAGAZINE, BUT WE ASSUME NO RESPONSIBILITY FOR THE EFFECTS ARISING THERE FROM. MMGIPL / SPICEJET DOES NOT ASSUME ANY LIABILITY FOR SERVICES OR PRODUCTS ADVERTISED HEREIN. FOR INQUIRIES | MMGIPL TEL: +91.11.43011111, WWW.SPICEJET.COM, WWW. MAXPOSURE.IN CIN: U22229DL2006PTC152087

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Tel: 60.3.7781.7700, E-Mail: shalliecheng@gmail.com Japan | Michiko Kawano | Pacific Business Inc Kabutocho 2-chome Bldg, 2-4-5, Nihonbashi Kayabacho, Chuo-ku, Tokyo, 103-0025 JAPAN, Tel: +81-(0)3-3661-6138, Fax: +81-(0)3-3661-6139, E-Mail: kawano-pbi@gol.com South Korea | Jung-Won Suh | Sinsegi Media Inc. Jungang Bldg., Room 817, 44-21, Yeouido-dong, Yeongdeungpo-gu, Seoul Korea 150-890 Tel: 82.2.785.8222, Fax: 82.2.785.8225 E-Mail: sinsegi-2@sinsegimedia.info Thailand | Stephen Marsh | Managing Director Media Representation International A: 43/3 Sukhumvit Soi 31, Bangkok, Thailand 10110.

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5

UPDATE Hot dates Travel buzz

TETE-A-TETE

EXPLORE 48 hours in Malé 32

18 22

Shah Rukh Khan

66

Summer destinations 40 McLeodganj

50

Kolkata

56

Sikkim

82

CONTENTS

18 32

66

10

Volume IX | Issue VI | June 2015

The inflighT magazine

32 66 74

www.spiceroutemag.com

Cover Photographs: Vineet Vashisht

June 2015 | www.spiceroutemag.com

SpecTacular MalÉ explore the pristine beaches & unwind in style

The King Khan Bollywood’s Badshah shares his love for travelling

SuMMer delighT Stay cool with yoghurtbased drinks

40

82

CONCERN

INDULGE

Plant a tree

POTPOURRI

88

The culinary spice

70

Summer delight

74

Bangkok airport

The six-yard wonder

78

Prediction

112

Launchpad

Style in the aisle

Spotlight

104 116 118 120

120 74

12

COVER STORY 10 fabulous years in the skies 26

26

88 INSIDE SPICEJET Socia media Spice products News The tagline Music Spice offerings Boeing event SpiceJet cares Group booking SME traveller Stars of SpiceJet SpiceJet fleet

June 2015 | www.spiceroutemag.com

14 16 122 124 127 128 132 134 137 138 140 142

INSIDE SPICEJET

FlySpiceJet Hats off to your never ending spirit. Way to go SpiceJet. Another sweet ride with SpiceJet. No doubt their in-flight staff is best among the whole lot! #Mumbai to #Hyderabad @govindrai80

14

Excited to board SpiceJet from #Delhi to #Mumbai. Ms. Parneet handling customers with greetings and smiles. @Fin4Praveen Had the SpiceJet staff asking me about my tattoo at check-in. Love the human touch! @onlykutts Kudos to SpiceJet for helping passengers with full refund on their flights to Nepal. @nisheshmehta

Spotted SpiceJet’s Red Chilli #Avgeek #Planspotter :D

Thanks SpiceJet for making my first flight so memorable.

Excellent and reliable service, and well before time. @raghubonu

Sandeep Devasthali You guys are awesome! Keep flying high!

Saurabh Sharma Appreciated your response to our Nepali brothers. Thank you so much!

Ajit Tate Very fast recovery. Great efforts

by SpiceJet!

Thanks SpiceJet for keeping the prices within reach. Booked Bengaluru-Kolkata-Bengaluru for travel. Second journey in last 2 weeks with you! :) @TweeFT Flew SpiceJet for the first time. One word to describe the experience - exceptional! SpiceJet...you have one more fan. @amit_palrecha

Tuhin Parekh Good work SpiceJet. God will help you to get through all situations. God bless.

Geoffrey Ellis SpiceJet is carrying out some happy innovations in the airline industry. Irrespective of what people say, I am sure it's a pleasant way to celebrate Holi in the air or on ground.

Aashish Patel

Just landed in Chennai from Visakhapatnam with SpiceJet. Compliments to the pilot & co-pilot for a wonderful flight. @vikashchowdhury Yet again another phenomenal support from your team to help us send 500 kg of tarps and tents in Kathmandu for #NepalQuakeRelief @sonal_31559

@janam737 Awesome flight SpiceJet! You guys have an exceptional band of people. @robustbuddy

The flight tickets for Chandigarh to Srinagar are the lowest. Thanks SpiceJet! @seesourabh

@flyspicejet June 2015 | www.spiceroutemag.com

It was a good experience flying SpiceJet on the Bengaluru-Chennai route! On time arrival and smooth journey. Thanks @skumar176

INSIDE SPICEJET

EXPERIENCE THE BEST

WITH SPICEJET

Keeping the needs of customers as priority, SpiceJet offers innovative products to make every journey a memorable one.

S 16

piceMax is a product that offers customers a lot more comfort and convenience for little more money. With greater personal space to work or relax, and with dedicated counters for priority check-in at major airports, SpiceMax is guaranteed to heighten your flying experience.

SpiceMax seats can be booked along with any category of fares.

However, the price will depend on the sector the passenger is travelling to and what kind of fare (for eg., lowest SpiceSaver fares or bundled SpiceFlex fare) the passenger has opted for at the time of booking.

Fleet redesign The airline has reconfigured most of its Boeing 737 fleet such that the first five rows now have extra legroom.

It provides best-in-class seat pitch as compared to premium seats sold on other airlines, and more pitch as compared to standard seats.

Easy booking online You can select your SpiceMax seat on the seat map at the time of booking on www.spicejet.com, after the purchase by using 'Manage My Booking' option (applicable even for booking made through travel agents); during online check-in, and during check-in at the airport.

When booking a connecting flight with a stop-over, passengers will have to purchase SpiceMax seats separately for the two flights.

Charges as per flight leg will apply.

June 2015 | www.spiceroutemag.com

The images are for representation purpose only

P

assengers travelling on SpiceJet can now enjoy an allnew menu that offers Indian and Continental cuisines.

Keeping the needs of customers in focus, the menu not only appeals to tastebuds across the country, but also keeps affordability and convenience in mind.

New menu Served hot and with a warm smile, the new menu comprises an exquisite range of both vegetarian and non-vegetarian meals. Those who crave for Continental flavours can opt for Grilled Chicken Breast with Mushroom Sauce, among other equally delightful options. The Indian menu includes Dal Makhani, Paneer Do Pyaza, Mixed Veg Chettinad, among others. Those wanting to grab a quick bite, the airline also offers a choice of sumptuous club sandwiches, Kathi Rolls, Chole with Kulcha and Spinach Parantha.

Passengers with a sweet-tooth can savour brownie, dhodha burfi and

choco banana pie that form a part of the dessert menu.

Guide to pre-booking meals SpiceJet offers the easy facility of pre-booking your meals at the time of booking your flight ticket, or anytime thereafter using the ‘Manage My Booking’ option on

the website, www.spicejet.com. By pre-booking, you will not only get the meal of your choice, you will also get a discount relative to on-board prices.

Note: Passengers with pre-booked meals will also be served first, ahead of others.

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UPDATE

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EXPLORE

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POTPOURRI

HOT DATES SINDHU DARSHAN FESTIVAL A celebration of River Sindhu, one of the world's longest rivers, which gave 'India' its name, the festival is held every year in the Indian state of Jammu & Kashmir. The festival promises a kaleidoscope of Indian culture and an exciting array of performing arts being brought together at an exciting place.

One of the most colourful and attractive festivals known for its vibrancy and splendour, it is held in the Ladakh region amidst extensive pomp and gaiety.

When: June 1-3, 2015 Where: Leh, Ladakh

UNION STREET FESTIVAL 18

The festival features a unique ‘World’ including, Fashion World, Culinary World, Tech World, Local World, Craft World and Health & Fitness World.

It will also host Craft Beer and Wine Tasting Pavilions with Food pairings such as gourmet cheeses, nuts, olive oils, etc., with decor based on the ‘World’ in which they are located.

When: June 6-7, 2015 Where: San Francisco, USA

DHARAMSHALA FILM FESTIVAL The festival attempts to provide the local community as well as travellers to this beautiful destination, a diverse presentation of high-quality independent films from around the world. This year the focus is on exemplifying the Divine Feminine and empowerment of women and girls.

When: June 11-13, 2015 Where: Dharamshala

WALL ART EXHIBITION A unique exhibition showcasing abstract creations in a designled craft-based collection of assorted abstract metal sculpture, it presents a dramatic range of contemporary metallics in varying moods, silhouettes and hues namely Dynasty, Time Machine, The Elms, Kaleidoscope, Transitional, Magnetic and few with complimenting collectibles in home decor and floor art pieces.

When: June 5 - August 16, 2015 Where: Meherchand Market, Lodhi Road, New Delhi June 2015 | www.spiceroutemag.com

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POTPOURRI

LUCKNOW MANGO FESTIVAL & FARMER'S MARKET Started in 2013 by a female mango grower at her mango orchard, the festival aims at promoting the region's mangoes, and supporting small farmers and women in agriculture. The finest mangoes are available for sampling and purchase. Delicious local food, folk music and dances entertain the crowd under the mango trees.

When: June 14, 2015, and June 21-22, 2015 (Farmer's Market) Where: Habibullah Estate Orchard, Barabanki. Farmer's Market at UPSTDC Paryatan Bhawan, Gomti Nagar, Lucknow

20

DRAGON BOAT FESTIVAL Celebrated as 'Poets' Day' in honour of Qu Yuan, known as China's first poet, the Dragon Boat Festival holds immense significance. During the festival, people eat rice dumplings (zongzi), drink realgar wine (xionghuangjiu), and race dragon boats. They usually have brightly decorated designs, with the front end shaped like openmouthed dragons, and the back end with a scaly tail.

When: June 20, 2015 Where: China

SAO JOAO FESTIVAL Dedicated to St. John the Baptist, the festival includes villagers jumping into the wells, streams and ponds.

It is a major attraction for tourists during monsoon. Several pool parties and private Sao Joao parties are organised in Goa for merriment and joy.

Wear a crown of leaves and flowers called ‘Kopel’, and enjoy some popular Goan music bands with some delicious Goan delicacies.

When: June 24, 2015 Where: Goa

HEMIS FESTIVAL Enjoy the richly adorned masks that the monastery lamas perform to celebrate the birth anniversary of Guru Padmasambhava in Leh during the festival. The performers wear elaborate and bizarre costumes and brightly painted masks. The music is characteristically punctuated with sounds of cymbals, drums, and unwieldy trumpets.

A colourful fair, displaying some beautiful handicrafts, is the special highlight of the festival. Also one can enjoy the local cuisine and adventure safaris on yaks.

When: June 26-27, 2015 Where: Hemis Monastery, Leh, Ladakh

June 2015 | www.spiceroutemag.com

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WHAT’S NEW

CALLIGRAPHY SHOW AT NATIONAL MUSEUM

NEW ROUTE FOR PILGRIMAGE 22

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, during his first visit to China, announced that the second route for the Kailash-Mansarovar Yatra will become operational in June 2015, allowing more Indians to undertake the pilgrimage.

The only route – Lipulekh Pass – was badly damaged in the floods in Uttarakhand in 2013. The route through Nathu La Pass will facilitate comfortable travel for Indian pilgrims by buses, especially for elderly Indian citizens, though conditions in the Himalayan region with less oxygen levels still pose a challenge.

Dr Mahesh Sharma, Union Minister of State for Tourism and Culture, inaugurated a twomonth exhibition of Islamic-style writing on objects of daily use in National Museum on May 15, 2015.

Displaying 56 utility artefacts from the past five centuries, ‘Art of Calligraphy and Beyond: Arabic-Persian Inscriptions on Decorative Arts objects’ at National Museum focusses on tastefully done inscriptions on metal-ware, wood, textiles and semiprecious stones — all of them from its own reserve collections.

The show is curated by Dr Anamika Pathak and Zahid Ali Ansari, who focussed on inscriptions beyond the usual medium of paper and architecture.

UNIQUE TREE RECORD BY BHUTAN Coinciding with the coronation of His Majesty the Fourth Druk Gyalpo and the Social Forestry Day, 111 Bhutanese will plant 50,000 trees in one hour on June 2, 2015. This mass tree plantation event is an attempt to beat the current world record of 40,885 trees planted by 100 heads in one hour. Participants will undergo a vigorous 10-day training on tree plantation technique prior to the event for proper coordination, speed and method to beat the current record.

The tentative name for the park is Jigme Singye Wangchuck Forest Park.

June 2015 | www.spiceroutemag.com

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WHAT INDIAN TRAVELLER PREFERS

24

A survey done by Hotels.com® regarding the preferences of Indian travellers explain that while free Wi-Fi is a must for both leisure and business travellers, people on work trips seem to accord this amenity a higher priority. Around 25% travellers ranked fitness centres as the number one non-tech amenity for which they are ready to pay extra. Free hotel Wi-Fi stood first on their priority list with (33%), while for leisure travellers, free breakfast and free Wi-Fi both top the amenities list (33%).

Around 22% business travellers ranked comfortable work chair and table ahead of a free breakfast.

25%

33%

22%

Around 25% travellers want fitness centres in hotel

Free hotel Wi-Fi stood first on their priority list

Business travellers prefer comfortable work chair and table

Do not want bathrobes, pool and bathtub

71%

Get annoyed by unpleasant carpet odours and running out of hot water

43%

A big percentage (71%) prefer not using bathrobes, pool and bathtub to lower the hotel rates. In the same way, minibar, DVD player, trouser press and bathroom phones do not appeal to Indian travellers. Noise from other guests, unpleasant carpet odours and running out of hot water (43%) annoy Indian travellers the most during their hotel stays.

NEW APP FOR KUMBH IN NASIK Maharashtra Tourism Development Corporation (MTDC) is launching an exclusive mobile application for the upcoming Kumbh Mela in Nashik, starting from July 14, 2015.

The new application will help people by providing all the information regarding the event along with an offline map facility, so that tourists can easily access the map even without internet.

June 2015 | www.spiceroutemag.com

Pressure Range

Capacity

Discription

Sr No

M3/Min

CFM

Bar

1

Lubricated SCREW Compressor

0.23 to 43.70

8 to 1545

8 to 13

2

Oil Free SCREW Compressor

5.30 to 51.40

187 to 1815

8 to 10

3

Lubricated PISTON Compressor

.125 to 6.20

4.5 to 219

8 to 40

4

Oil Free PISTON Compressor

.156 to 1.30

6 to 45

8 to 40

5

BOGE FLEXPET

1.55 to 17.9

54 to 634

40

BOGE AIR. THE AIR TO WORK.

BOGE India , No. 216, Third Link Street, Industrial Estate, Nehru Nagar, Kottivakkam, Chennai - 600 096, india@boge.com* www.boge.in Chennai Mr. F C Jayakaran

: +91 9600041656 : fc .jayakaran@boge .com

/ Chennai Mr. Muthu Ganesan : +91 9003172111 : muthu.ganesan@boge.com

Hyderabad Mr.W.Narendra

: +91 9704770930 : w. narendra@boge.com

/ Mumbai Mr. Hasan Hasware : +91 9840956161 : h.hasware@boge.com

Delhi Mr. Deepesh Upadhyay

: +91 9818556732 : d.upadhyay@boge.com

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FABULOUS YEARS IN THE SKIES

A day of merriment and festivity, SpiceJet celebrated its 10th anniversary with a bang, giving immense reasons to customers & staff to cheer.

June 2015 | www.spiceroutemag.com

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H

appiness, bliss, jubilation & celebrations... Mere words fail to imply the true feelings of every SpiceJet member as the airline completed 10 fabulous years of operations.

Be it on ground, or in-flight, every SpiceJet employee proudly lifted the airline’s banner high on this day, spreading their infectious joy among passengers and each other.

On May 23, 2015, when I was travelling from Delhi to Goa, I was selected as a winner for a contest onboard, as SpiceJet was celebrating its 10th anniversary! I was among the top 3 who wore the 'most red', and was delighted to receive free return tickets from the COO himself! It was great fun to win something, and quite a surprise too! I loved every bit of the experience and service offered by SpiceJet. Congratulations SpiceJet! Avaneesh Singh

CELEBRATIONS GALORE

SpiceJet has always celebrated festivals with aplomb. Whether breaking out into an impromptu flash dance at the airport for Holi, organising special flights for underprivileged children on festivals, serenading passengers with a Mariachi style musical performance on Diwali at the Delhi airport; the airline goes that extra mile to spread cheer and make its customers smile.

On May 23, 2015, at the Delhi airport, Terminal 1D, top management from SpiceJet lit the ceremonial lamp to herald the anniversary celebrations. SpiceJet distributed muffins and cards to all

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TWEETS...

Congrats on your 10th birthday, SpiceJet! Keep the good work going on.

Best wishes

@SaishAcharya

SpiceJet saying loudly that 'We care for you'. We will make it infinite decades :) Congratulations once again and keep the spirit on!

@raj_shekharan

Best wishes for 10th anniversary SpiceJet! Very good and cooperative ground staff at Pune Airport. @swayamsagar

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passengers on all flights. The cards listed 10 reasons to cheer the airline for their 10th birthday.

On the Delhi-Goa flight, special activities and contests were held to spread joy 30,000 ft above sea level. Customers found wearing the most ‘red’ were awarded free return tickets. Sanjiv Kapoor, COO, SpiceJet, who was also travelling on the same flight, handed the tickets over to the three chosen passengers. The crew even performed a special welcome bow to greet passengers, while donning the party hats to add sparkle to the journey.

The airline also launched another contest, wherein SpiceJet customers were asked to click a selfie with any element of the airline in the background, such as aircraft, cabin interiors, check-in counters, etc., along with their boarding passes. The winner could bag two free return tickets to any SpiceJet destination in India.

FLYING FOR ALL

Big shout out to the fabulous SpiceJet team!

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SpiceJet has greatly impacted the aviation industry with its

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pioneering flash sales. The airline has empowered the common man to reach out and touch the skies.

With a well-planned network, unique pricing strategy, promotions, branding, variety of products and services, and a plethora of marketing initiatives, the airline has created what is now known as the ‘SpiceJet effect’.

Thus, in keeping with its tradition, and giving customers more reasons to travel and celebrate along with the airline, SpiceJet launched a special discount offer called the #CelebrationSale, with fares starting as low as `1,010, all inclusive.

SpiceJet also announced a 'Happy Birthday to Us' Flash Sale on May 23, offering a flat 10% discount on select flights. This sale was open from 10 am to 3 pm.

IT’S PARTY TIME!

On May 23, 2015, the airline decorated their check-in counters at airports with balloons and flowers, and colourful posters were put up to create a celebratory atmosphere for passengers and

@sonal_31559

Congratulations SpiceJet! May you fly to make it 100 ahead. @ashishprabhu22

Team SpiceJet, many congrats from @KPMGIndia on your 10th anniversary! May you continue to soar! @amberdubey123

Happy birthday for completion of 10 years!

@rajadi69

June 2015 | www.spiceroutemag.com

The airline has empowered the common man to touch the skies

Left: The card was handed out to all passengers on May 23, along with a pastry or muffin.

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FB POSTS Congrats SpiceJet for completing 10 years of service and best of luck for future!

Shalini Dalmiya

A very happy 10th anniversary to SpiceJet! We celebrated 7, 8 and 9 at Surat airport and look forward to celebrate further anniversaries here.

Surat Airport Information

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Congrats team SpiceJet for completing 10 years.

I am a fan of SpiceJet and will always travel with this airline because it is always on time. Best of luck.

Madhu Aggarwal

Congratulations team! Keep adding more spice in the air ;) #10YearsOfSpiceJet Saket Shetty

Congratulations to SpiceJet team. May you grow from strength to strength.

Rajendra Kumar

Be it Amritsar, Delhi, Goa or Kathmandu airports, the staff enthusiastically celebrated the occasion employees alike. The staff sported red badges and special lanyards on this day. Be it Amritsar, Delhi, Goa or Kathmandu airports, the staff enthusiastically came together to celebrate the occasion.

The airline receives strength from its employees, who lend their support in times of crisis. Strongly following the philosophy of SOCCH, the SpiceJet staff is determined to take the airline to greater heights.

It was 10 years ago, when the very first SpiceJet passengercarrying flight, SG101, took off from

June 2015 | www.spiceroutemag.com

Left: Celebrating the high calorie achievements of SpiceJet with a delicious cake

Delhi to Ahmedabad, piloted by Capts Sandeep Varma and Vishal Sawhney. Today, the airline is the second oldest operating private airline in India.

From celebrating at airports across the country, in-flight, head office; the month ahead will include much festivity, giving customers & staff many more reasons to look forward to!

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HOURS IN

MALÉ

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Specks of emerald green enveloped by dazzling turquoise waters; white powdery beaches, pristine coral reefs make Maldives one of the best tropical destinations.

WO RDS | NEELAM S I NGH

June 2015 | www.spiceroutemag.com

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n island nation in the Indian Ocean, Maldives has 26 coral atolls, which are made up of hundreds of islands. Malé is the capital city and the most densely populated spot on earth.

Malé, complete with its own artificial beach, swimming track, historic sites, and a spectacular skyline of candycoloured skyscrapers, is both an island and a city Walking down the streets of Malé, you will feel like you have come to the most unique and interesting city. Measuring only 6 sq km, Malé is tiny. There is one road that circles

the coast, and the centre is a maze of thin streets and alleyways that are too small for cars, so walking and motorbikes are the way to go.

DAY

Explore the cultural and historical past of the Maldives on the first day.

8.00 AM: BREAKFAST @ SEA Start your day with a sumptuous breakfast at Lemongrass Fifth in Fareedhee Magu, Malé. Known for authentic Indian, Thai and Maldivian food, the place offers great sea view.

9.00 AM:

UTHEEMU GANDUVARU

Utheemu Ganduvaru is the ideal option to start your journey. The wooden palace which once served as the home of Sultan Mohamed Thankurufaan, is located in

Utheemu, a small inhabited island in the north of Maldives. Mohamed Thankurufaan is considered a hero for saving his people from Portuguese conquerors.

11.00 AM:

GRAND FRIDAY MOSQUE

Dominating the skyline of Malé, the Old Friday Mosque or the Hukuru Miskiiy is the oldest mosque in Maldives. This grand building was constructed by Sultan Ibrahim Iskandhar in 1656. This magnificent architectural pride features beautiful coral engravings, an imposing gold dome and impressive minarets. Its interior boasts of beautiful lacquer work and elaborate woodcarvings.

Note: Tourists can only visit between 9 am and 5 pm, and outside of prayer times. They need to be adequately dressed.

SpiceJet offers direct flights to Male city in the Maldives from Kochi in Kerala. The airline also offers a host of connected flights from other cities too. For more details, log on to www.spicejet.com

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DO NOT MISS The Malé Fish Market: Find a myriad of freshly caught sea creatures and the opportunity to obtain an insight into the traditional Maldivian lifestyle. The best time to visit the fish market would be in the late-afternoons, when the local fishermen bring in their catch.

The surf-huts at Malé beach provide a vantage point for watching the waves.

Left: The underwater restaurant Below: Display at the National Museum Bottom left: Sultan Park

1.00 PM: LUNCH WITH MARINE

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SPECIES Do visit the Independence Square (Jumhooree Maidhaan), a park marked by the Maldivian flag where flocks of pigeons come to be fed by the locals.

Go for island hopping in a day-tour to get a feel of this island nation. Snorkel in the clear waters of a desert island and experience a barbecue on the beach.

For a truly unique experience, visit the Ithaa Undersea Restaurant at the Conrad Hilton Rangali Island resort in the South Ari Atoll. This is the first all-glass undersea restaurant in the world and is 16 ft below sea level. The restaurant offers a four-course lunch and can be booked privately for romantic meals. The view of beautiful coral gardens and the possibility of seeing a passing reef shark make it an extraordinary dining experience.

4.00 PM: SULTAN PARK AND

NATIONAL MUSEUM

The National Museum showcases a selection of items belonging to Maldivian royalty along with a variety of archaeological findings.

It consists of the ornaments and costumes worn by various kings and queens, stone items of the Maldives' pre-Islamic period, paper and cloth manuscripts, arms and armor, photographs of important personalities, anthropological objects, etc. Surrounding the museum is Sultan’s Park, an oasis June 2015 | www.spiceroutemag.com

of greenery, telling a silent cultural and historical past of this island nation. It is the nicest public space in Malé.

Open hours: Saturday-Thursday From 8 am - 6 pm; On Friday - From 4 pm - 6 pm, Entry free 6.00 PM: SHOPPING GALORE There are plenty of textile shops in Malé. They offer fabric of every imaginable texture, design and colour. Malé also has a range of bookstores where you can purchase stationery as well as

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a range of popular fiction, nonfiction and self-help books.

To take back memories of your trip in a more material form, the souvenir shops on the northern end Chandhanee Magu provide the perfect outlet. Wooden ashtrays, turtle-shaped salt and pepper shakers, shell necklaces and packs of playing cards, these shops offer kitsch of every kind and shape for the discerning buyer.

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8.00 PM: JAZZ CAFÉ For dinner, visit this trendy European style restaurant in Malé.

It offers an eclectic range of dishes with Maldivian and international influences. Popular among both young and old local Maldivians, the café hosts regular music gigs featuring talented Maldivian musicians playing Jazz, Rock and Soul.

June 2015 | www.spiceroutemag.com

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Reserve the second day for adventure activities and enjoy some once in a lifetime experiences.

8.00 AM: SUSHI BRUNCH For an adventurous day ahead, go for a brunch at the Sea House, located on the first floor of the ferry terminal. The restaurant’s open-air deck overlooks Malé’s harbour, with panoramic views of the beautiful

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Indian Ocean and the lagoons surrounding the city. It is better known for offering special sushi brunch events and serves mashuni roshi, a traditional Maldivian breakfast meal made of tuna, coconut, onion, chili and lime.

9.00 AM: PLAY WITH WAVES A paradise for surfers, you can fly into Malé airport and be onboard your surf charter boat or at your resort within an hour or less upon clearing customs. The Atoll of Malé is a perennial favourite among surfers. Pasta Point is another popular spot, offering both left-hand rides and about 100 metres of pure tube riding out to sea.

South Atolls is one of the most remote areas on the planet where

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charter boats are the only form of access, making this an exclusive and relatively expensive surf trip.

There are several surf packages that offer accommodation along with a variety of liveaboard surfing with packed breakfast and lunch served on the dhoni (boat). One can also opt for resort based surfing where you just need to walk from your room to a world of wonder.

Best time for surfing: From April till October.

4.00 PM: SUBMARINE DIVING Explore the magical underwater world of marine life with the world's deep diving largest tourist submarine for a unique experience. The exterior lights

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of the submarine helps to see the different types of fish taking shelter inside caves. The excursion ensures the safest and most comfortable ride, operated by a fully trained and certified team.

Note: The submarine dives in every 90 minutes day and night starting

South Atolls is one of the most remote areas on the planet where charter boats are the only form of access, making this an exclusive and expensive surf trip

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9.00 am in the morning until 8.00 pm in the evening.

NIGHT FISHING

Night fishing is a special Maldivian form of evening entertainment under starry skies. One can end the evening with a barbecue prepared with your very own catch.

Where to stay: Maldives provides a wide range of hotels and resorts. Be it luxurious star categorised hotels & resorts, or cost-effective hotels for your budget accommodation, there is something to fit every pocket.

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For a truly Maldivian dining experience, try the fish while listening to the waves at a waterfront restaurant. The local version of fast-food are served at what are known as SaiHotaas (teashops). These hotaas serve ‘short-eats’ in a casual environment.

DID YOU KNOW? ○ Land is so scarce in Maldives and most islands are so small that they are used only for one thing. There is an airport island, a trash island, etc. ○ Giving intersting names to their houses is a quintessentially Maldivian

June 2015 | www.spiceroutemag.com

feature. One can come across names like Sea-Breeze, Sunshine Lodge, and unique variations like Forget-Me-Not, and Always Happy House. ○ This was the first country to hold a cabinet meeting underwater.

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SUMMER LOVE

As temperatures soar and the usual work routine is deflating your spirits, it’s time for a break. We suggest a few summer destinations to travel with SpiceJet .

W O R D S | RA M YA JS D' ROZ A RIO

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June 2015 | www.spiceroutemag.com

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rom the sandy beaches of Kozhikode to the stunning Doon valley, traipse around the grand monuments of Agartala to tucking into the array of sweets in Jammu city or gliding through the glitzy city of Bengaluru; the choices are tempting and summer will never be the same again.

Summer may seem like an unforgiving season in India, but plan your trip right to enjoy the best it offers EARTHY HUES OF KOZHIKODE

SpiceJet offers direct flights to Kozhikode from Bengaluru and Chennai. For more details, log on to www. spicejet.com

A city that once held the seat of power of the powerful Zamorins, Kozhikode has etched its name in history due to the legendary spice route. The breezy coastal city in northern Kerala, Kozhikode imparts an indelible impression on every traveller. Also known as Calicut, it is a melting pot of culture and communities from across India and even neighbouring countries.

Back in 1498, Portuguese trader and explorer, Vasco da Gama opened a trading doorway when along with his fleet, he arrived at Panthalayani Kollam, a natural port near Kozhikode.

The Arab traveller, Ibn Batuta is also said to have referred to this place as 'Fanderina' in his works.

The city has artistic places of worship, be it temples, churches or mosques. Built by Zamorin (ruler) in the 14th century, Tali Temple showcases one of the finest examples of medieval Kerala temple architecture.

It is a sanctuary for many to rest and reflect in silence. The Mother of God Church’s dome replicates that of Rome basilica. Built by the Portuguese in the European Gothic style, it is a landmark of the city visible from the sea.

A port town in the district, boats are still built at the Beypore Port even today. Uru, wooden boats from the ancient times, were built first for the Arabs and later were used by the Gujarati merchants here.

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SPARKLING BENGALURU One of the popular destinations to head to in South India, Bengaluru has more to offer than just IT, gardens and watering holes. A succession of dynasties such as the Hoysalas and Talakadu Gangas occupied Bengaluru, before giving way to Tipu Sultan and subsequently, the British.

Tipu Sultan’s Fort and Summer Palace is a gem hiding in plain view.

Situated bang in the middle of the city, next to the City Market, the teak pillars and frescoes of the palace make for an interesting study.

The ruins of Tipu’s fort lie close by.

St. Andrew’s Church, a 150-year-old building, is a fine example of Gothic architecture.

Thindi Beedi is a street full of food carts and small stand-up eateries. In Kannada, Thindi Beedi means food street. Bengaluru’s ode June 2015 | www.spiceroutemag.com

to street food wakes up at about 5:30 pm every day and is in action until way past midnight. Munch on roasted corn on the cob and sweet corn, bondas and bajjis of different kinds, regional specialties like the Davangere Benne Dosa, Neer Dosa and Akki Roti, pav bhaji and vada pav. Finish off with desserts like gulkhand, holige (puran poli), falooda, kulfi and ice cream.

SpiceJet offers direct flights to Bengaluru from Delhi, Kolkata, Mumbai, Pune, Belgaum, Chennai, Kozhikode, Vijayawada, Mangalore, Hyderabad and Visakhapatnam.

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THE TRANQUIL LAND OF JAMMU An apt summer getaway, Jammu offers many elements to fascinate travellers to this region. The winter capital of Jammu & Kashmir, Jammu is one of the three administrative divisions within the state and Jammu city is the largest in the area.

Dotted with many temples, the city has acquired the moniker ‘City of Temples’. Located in the heart of Jammu city, Raghunath Temple depicts an outstanding work of art.

The inner walls of the main temple area are covered in gold sheets on three sides.

This temple complex is also a treasure trove of manuscripts and texts. The accompanying Raghunath market is a must visit spot, offering numerous knickknacks for tourists.

For a glimpse of the decadent past, the Amar Mahal Palace showcases the opulence and grandeur. Constructed by a French architect for Raja Amar Singh,

belonging to the Dogra dynasty, the palace is built of red sandstone.

Art aficionados can visit the art gallery here to study the Indian miniature paintings of Kangra style and the various works of artists like MF Hussain, GR Santosh, J Swaminathan, Laxman Pai, etc.

The imposing structure of Bahu Fort, with its breathtaking terraced gardens and waterfalls, is another beautiful spot to visit.

The Rajma Chawal here is quite popular, and many eating joints and restaurants are famous exclusively for this dish. If you have a sweet tooth, do try the rasmalai, kheer, kaddu-halwa and karda, another type of halwa.

SpiceJet offers direct services to Jammu from Delhi and Srinagar, and a host of connecting flights from other cities. Log on to www.spicejet.com June 2015 | www.spiceroutemag.com

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GLORIOUS AGARTALA To enjoy a trip different from the usual, head to India’s northeastern state of Tripura to gaze at the royal grandeur of Agartala’s history.

The state capital is situated on the banks of River Howrah, and Maharaja Bir Bikram Kishore Manikya Bahadur is known as the founder of Agartala. The king had gone for a tour in the United Kingdom, and upon returning, he decided to model Agartala as the UK. Ujjayanta Palace is a must visit spot in Agartala. Built by Maharaja Radha Kishore Manikya during 1899-1901, the former palace now serves as a museum. The largest museum in the northeast, the ivory palace is over two storeys with a mixed type of architecture having three high domes. The central dome is almost 86 ft high. Situated near a lake, the museum is surrounded by lush parks similar to the style of Mughal gardens and pools. The June 2015 | www.spiceroutemag.com

SpiceJet offers direct flights to Agartala from Guwahati and Kolkata.

For more details, log on to www.spicejet.com

palace housed the State Legislative Assembly till 2011.

Spread across 4 hectares of land, the Tripura Heritage Park offers immense serenity in Kunjaban. Visitors can bask in the natural heritage of Tripura with its undulating terrain, majestic eucalyptus, acacia and litchi trees, indigenous plants, medicinal herbs and a variety of artefacts, such as heritage benches, pottery, wood craft, stone sculptures in the park.

The city residents are big fans of sports, such as football and cricket; so when in Agartala, do try to catch a few local games at the stadiums, that are bound to leave you engrossed and at the edge of your seats. For a short trip from the city, head to Tripura Sundari Temple, that is almost 50 km from Agartala. The temple has a square sanctum with a conical dome. This temple is considered as one of the 51 Shakti Peethas.

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PICTURESQUE DEHRADUN I’ve often visited the town of Dehradun in Doon valley, and every trip has been graced with much wonder and joy. Driving along the serpentine roads, gawking at the monkeys that pepper the sidewalks and marvelling at the tall Clock Tower that stands astride in the middle of a crossroad, this town invokes my childhood memories.

Established in 1906, the Forest Research Institute is a storehouse of information, and the museum is a must visit. The campus that dates over 100 years, sprawls over 450 hectares and has the Himalayan range as its backdrop. The museum is a major attraction. To enjoy the

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natural beauty further, head to Sahastradhara, sulphur springs that also have caves and waterfalls.

Enjoy a quick refreshing dip and finish it off with a meal at one of the many restaurants that surround this popular tourist spot.

One of the most important seats of Buddhist study centres in Tibet, the Mindrolling Monastery is an important tourist spot. The process of re-establishing the monastery in India began in 1965.

For a family outing, the Malsi Deer Park offers the perfect location with play areas for children, local flora & fauna, among others.

Any journey to this valley town is never complete without a trip to Ellora’s, a bakery on Rajpur Road.

Opt for stick-jaw sweets, walnut cookies, coconut cookies, baked goodies, pastries, toffees, rusks or pies; this confectionary is a delight to step into. One can also visit the leather shop next door that offers genuine leather bags, boots, shoes and belts.

SpiceJet offers direct flights to Dehradun from Delhi, and a number of well connected flights from other cities. Log on to www.spicejet.com, for details.

June 2015 | www.spiceroutemag.com

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COSMOPOLITAN

SALAD BOWL A tiny town in the Himalayas, snow-capped Dhauladhar peaks and a strong flavour of Buddhism together make McLeodganj a delightfully quirky hill station.

W O R D S | A M B IK A G UPTA

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is Holiness the Dalai Lama picked this charming town, 12 km uphill to Dharamshala, as his home.

outward and are lined with cozy, inviting cafés - all Wi-Fi enabled - al fresco restaurants and curio shops.

Ever since McLeodganj has played host to troops of travellers from around the world, it has become a popular weekend haunt

This tiny Himalayan town can be entirely covered on foot under 20 minutes. The gorgeous Himalayas glisten in the background as you roam around the town, being serenaded by travelling musicians and breathing in inviting aromas from the sizzling food stalls.

Eclectic cuisines are available in many restaurants catering to the varied palettes of backpackers that descend here from different parts of the world. Stretch in the sun and

The air here is deliciously cool and cosmopolitan; the crowded main square is festooned with brightly coloured Tibetan prayer flags.

Narrow, long lanes radiate

PSYCHEDELIC SIGHTS

linger over coffee at Demi Moore’s favourite haunt Café Coffee Talk dark wood interiors, a thoroughly laid-back vibe, gooey homemade cakes and your poison brewed to perfection (Temple Rd, cappuccino `55).

You can watch a varied mix of people pass by: straggly backpackers, yoga aficionados, Buddhist scholars, Tibet enthusiasts and if you’re lucky, some decidedly drool-worthy Hollywood stars.

Happily, this cultural infusion has seeped into the cuisine. It’s impossible to walk 100 yards without being waylaid by a heady

SpiceJet offers direct flights to Dharamshala from Delhi. The airline also provides a well-connected network, offering convenient flights from other cities across India.

For more details, log on to www.spicejet.com June 2015 | www.spiceroutemag.com

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NEED TO KNOW

Left: Prayer wheels at a monastery; Bottom: St John's Church in the Wilderness; Bottom left: A view of the landscape

○ Avoid going during the monsoon when the heavy rains can make walking around town a messy affair. ○ Summer is ideal since heavy mists don’t block the view of the snow-capped peaks.

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○ Hire fixed-price autos from the Government stand near the main square to avoid unnecessary haggling. ○ Be sure to carry comfortable walking shoes and light woolens as nights get chilly even in summer and an umbrella for unpredictable showers.

June 2015 | www.spiceroutemag.com

mix of aromas. Grab a quick streetside snack of steaming momos (in a giddy range of stuffings from `20) or sizzling pork-chops (from `40).

As for restaurants, they offer such an array of cuisines- Tibetan, German, Indian, Italian, Israeli- that you’ll be left spoilt for choice, not to mention slightly dazed. Take a cue from Richard Gere and head to Nick’s Italian Kitchen (Bhagsunag Rd), which has authentic Continental fare and a breezy terrace with a panoramic view of snowy peaks.

Indulge in a leisurely meal of potato gnocchi (`310) and get treated to a complimentary side of heaven.

Buddhist monks come to Dharamshala to read the preserved ancient manuscripts ADVENTURE TOURISM

If you are not content to twiddle your thumbs while watching the mists roll in and roll out, take short, easy treks to the hamlets of Bhagsu and Dharamkot (2 km each; 45 mins) or the more challenging one to Triund (9 km; 10 hrs; start at daybreak to be back before sundown). The latter is as exotic as its name sounds - a gloriously green

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meadow at a heady elevation of 2,827 m, closely circled by jagged mountainsides.

ISRAELI FLAVOUR

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Pic by Akhilesh Kumar

Dharamkot hosts a large community of Israelis and you’ll be greeted by a Brooklyn-style, red Chabad (guest) house run by a rabbi. The aptly named local restaurant, Trek and Dine even, features the Israeli staple, Jachnun, on its menu (a traditional preparation of rolled pastry served with tomato dip and hard-boiled eggs in gravy; available only on Sabbath- Friday night; `400).

In Bhagsu, take a dip in the holy Bhagsunag waterfall, and then plop down at the artsy Shiva Café (8 am-dusk) for masala chai (`15) and Nutella pancakes (`75) before you head back.

manuscripts preserved here. Visit the Norbulingka Institute which was established to keep alive the traditional arts and crafts of Tibet like the lovely and richly coloured Thangka paintings, metal craft and wooden carvings.

A delightful place to visit in the afternoon is the War Memorial built in memory of brave soldiers who died fighting in the Indo-Pak and Indo-China wars, located at the entry point to Dharamshala amid rugged, wild and beautiful nature.

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No trip to ‘Little Lhasa’ is complete without a visit to the Dalai Lama’s Temple Complex (dawn to dusk, entry free). Occupying one end of town, it’s surrounded with thick forests and towering peaks. Don’t miss the adjoining museum that uses technology to tell Tibet's tale.

Make a trip downhill to Dharamshala to better appreciate the history and poignant tale of struggle for Tibetan Independence, the exodus of Tibetans from their homeland and witness their effort to preserve their cultural heritage.

Buddhist monks from distant Tibetan refugee camps come to Dharamshala to read ancient

SHOPPING FRENZY

Steaming momos are available in a giddy range of stuffings

GETTING AROUND McLeodganj is compact enough for you to comfortably walk everywhere.

Take the fixed price auto for the neighbouring hamlets of Dharamkot (`75 one way) and Bhagsu (`50 one way).

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Pick up trendy, coloured leather bags and wallets, hand-woven shawls, quirky silver jewellry, religious paraphernalia like Tibetan prayer flags, singing bowls, Buddha figurines in every size, mood and pose imaginable. Shop for Free Tibet t-shirts, posters and other merchandise at the student-run, Students for a Free Tibet-India (STFIndia) store. All proceeds go towards supporting the organisation.

When visiting this quaint town, you’ll be left wondering if the infectious warmth of its people is what makes McLeodganj the cosmopolitan salad bowl that it is.

Left: Stalls selling trinkets and curios; Below: A street stall selling Tibetan food

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STEP INTO KOLKATA'S FLORAL PARADISE

Colloquially known as the Howrah Phool Bazaar, the Mallikghat Flower Market at Kolkata’s iconic Howrah Bridge offers an excellent composition of dizzying colours and aromas.

W O R D S | PA RTH A M UK H E RJE E & P RIYANKA MUKHERJEE P H OTO GR A PHS | B H A SWA RA N B H ATTACHARYA

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he sun hasn’t fully leapt over the horizon. The sky is turning crimson slowly leaving the river down below like a huge canvas of Rembrandt. The skyline of the city across the river is coming out of the dungeon of the night.

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The skyline of the city across the river is coming out of the dungeon of the night. Kolkata is about to wake up and so is its Phool Bazaar People at Howrah Station are hurrying along the sidewalk of the Howrah Bridge – Rabindra Setu – with big hampers full of flowers on their heads. Those bags on their heads and shoulders and baskets nestled under their arms leave a trail of floral fragrance of fresh blooms, which makes the morning breeze moist with a balmy touch. Petals lay scattered on the passage they walk through. But where do they go? A few minutes’ stroll following

“I’D RATHER HAVE ROSES ON MY TABLE, THAN DIAMONDS AROUND MY NECK.” Emma Goldman

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SOAK IN HISTORY

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Founded in 1855 by philanthropist Ram Mohan Mallick, the market, though ramshackle with time, is always set to a nostalgic reverberation. Most of the shop owners here belong to the fourth generation.

However, no shop in the market has a signboard that mentions when it was put up, old shop owners confirm that it is the largest wholesale flower market in West Asia.

SpiceJet offers direct flights to Kolkata from Agartala, Bangkok, Delhi, Bagdogra, Guwahati, Mumbai, Port Blair, Chennai and Bengaluru among others.

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Left: The bustle of business at its peak

them leads you to a spot of about a few thousand square yards. One can see flowers everywhere, from Marigold to Lotus; Rose to Gardenia; Hibiscus to Champa and many other varieties.

DELICATE BEAUTY

I hold a flower in a way so that its delicate petals are not scuffed inside my palm. It was a bunch of buds of rose with big stems. Gleaming in the rays of the early sun, they appear to have been reddened further, as if gone blushed amidst the crowd of so many onlookers. Suddenly, a few lines of a Tagore song rings out of a radio set at one of the shops: Böl Golap Morè Böl Tui Phootbi Sokhee Kobè...Kochi Kisoloyguli Royeche Noyno Tuli – Sudhaichey Mili Sobe, Tui Phootbi Sokhee Kobè (Tell me, my dear Rose, when will you mature into a full flower... Those green leaves await your burst into full bloom, they ask together, when you will be in full beauty?).

Braving the throng of sellers, customers and camera toting tourists, mainly from Europe, I soon reached another part of the market where Marigold was on sale and my eyes turn round in

Almost 3,000 flower growers come here to sell their blooms amazement. "Everyday, a few tonnes of the flower are put on sale, even exporters from different parts of the country collect their flowers from here itself,” says Ram Jena, an old trader in the market. “Approximately 3,000 flower growers from surrounding areas come here to sell their blooms."

PULSE OF THE MARKET

There is something that makes this a unique place for many. Perhaps the relationship between sellers

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Left: Loose flowers, garlands and flower arrangements of all kinds are available here

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and customers that help the market thrive since inception. “We believe in adding a personal touch in our interaction with our customers, and till date, no customer has returned empty handed. The market has hardly seen any lull in its business. Even when the devastating fire in 2008 claimed our stock and resources, no customer was deprived of the service even for a single day, because we were doubly conscious about the fact that an interruption to the supply would have a massive impact on the business of our valued customers – retailers and wholesalers alike – which we never let happen,” says Prafulla Jena, stall owner.

Where do these flowers come from? An old shop owner rattles off

A sight of much bustle, no customer is seen leaving empty handed his list, “The roses are brought from Panskura while the Gladioli, Dahlia, Astor, Hibiscus, and Chrysanthemum come from Midnapore.

Rare flowers like Lilies and Dutch roses are brought from Bengaluru

and Orchids travel all the way from Sikkim.”

From the bridge, the market appears to be a cluster of weather beaten shops with tiled roofs and tin walls, but to experience the ethos of the place, one needs to go through the maze of stalls here.

While one side of the market is awash with flowers moist with rasputin red, widow white, bucolic blue, youthful yellow, magic magenta, gallant green, arrogant aquamarine, velvety violet, eerie indigo and caustic crimson; the other side is drowned in the tyrant cacophony of skidding tyres, and struggle for existence.

If studied closely, one realises that it is a place of unique blend – soft as a flower and tough as real life.

FLOWER MARKET & RIVER HOOGHLY The market, by nature, has a similarity with the river Hooghly. Both the river and flowers continue to exist under the sun to offer people a kind of sanctity.

“While the sacred river washes away dirt of our body, flowers remove the stench

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of meanness deposited in our minds,” Kangalicharan Upadhyay opines succinctly. Almost 90 years old, Kangalicharan has been coming to the market since his childhood, and describes the place as an amazing spot to visit.

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JUNGLE JOURNEY I MY UNFORGETTABLE

Read how an alternate route takes the writer and his family into the heart of danger and extreme thrill.

W O R D S & P H OTO G RA PH S| NAVIN M RAHEJ A

t was the summer of 1991. Having stayed in Nainital for a few days, we decided to visit my brotherin-law, Raj Kishan Kaul, who was working with Bharat Electronics Limited and lived in Kotdwar.

During my numerous trips to Dhikala, I used to share jungle stories with mahouts, Hameed and Ishtyak, and also with the canteen contractor Kala.

They used to talk about a rarely travelled kutchha forest road via Durgadevi, Lohachaur, Ratuadhap, Maidavan and Dugadda, and I used to dream about travelling on this route There was a reason to visit Kotdwar and an opportunity of adventure, so instead of using the regular route via Kashipur-JaspurDhampur-Nagina-Najibabad and Kotdwar, we decided on the jungle road which was fraught with several challenges.

I was not really aware of the condition of this kutchha raasta that ran through the forest. So, immediately as we touched Ramnagar via Kaladhungi, instead of turning left, I turned right to take the forest route. While going to Mohan and beyond, as you go past Dhangarhi Gate of the Corbett National Park and about four kilometres ahead, the road bifurcates into two. While the straight one leads to Ranikhet, the left goes to Marchula and beyond.

On this road, after about 5 km or

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CORBETT NATIONAL PARK IS A WORLD OF INFINITE. ONE MUST CARRY OUT A THOROUGH RESEARCH AND KEEP A FEW ESSENTIAL TIPS HANDY. EXPLORATION OF THE PARK CAN TAKE PLACE IN MANY WAYS, SUCH AS JEEP SAFARIS, BIRD SPOTTING, FISHING, RAPPELLING, ELEPHANT SAFARI OR SOLITARY WALKS. June 2015 | www.spiceroutemag.com

JIM - THE PERSON

Jim Corbett, an Englishman born in the picturesque hill station of Nainital, was renowned for exhibiting utmost courage in his endeavours at shooting countless man-eater leopards and tigers. He however, strictly followed a golden rule, whereby he refused to kill innocent animals, unless they posed a danger to the inhabitants of the villages of Kumaon, by becoming man-eaters.

so, you touch Durgadevi, the north entry gate of Corbett Tiger Reserve.

During 1990s, this gate was rarely used by people other than the forest staff and their vehicles. It was a virtually zero traffic zone with some forest vehicles crossing once a week or so to give supplies to Loha Chaur and beyond.

Having started in the morning from Nainital, it was already past noon when we touched the Durgadevi gate. As we entered, we noticed a lot of broken trees and elephant dung. It did not take us long to figure out that the path was deserted and there were elephants ahead.

I was in our new car with wife and kids. My wife’s younger sister and my support manager during those years, were also accompanying us. When I look back today, I take it as a crazy and over-

As we rolled down, we came across some absolutely fresh pug marks of a tiger adventurous trip through the jungle with family and without any backup support. It was not really the lure of a short cut that had prompted me to take this course, but the fact

that we would be driving through an unexplored part of Corbett and dense forest. We did not see any tigers till Loha Chaur, apart from some pug marks and other tell tale signs.

Crossing Loha Chaur and reaching the eastern bank of the river, we were dismayed to find that the makeshift wooden bridge to cross the Ramganga river had been dismantled.

Going back to Ramnagar was ruled out, so we decided to take a chance. The water was only kneedeep but flowing swiftly and the bed of the river had huge boulders.

We decided that we would take a chance and cross the river. While I would keep the car running in the first gear, the others would push hard till we were able to take the car across. I entered the river on foot twice or thrice to check the

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riverbed to ensure there were no real obstacles that would land us in serious trouble by getting the car stuck. The only challenge was to ensure that the engine continues to run.

After assessing the situation to my satisfaction, I sat behind the steering wheel, put the car in first gear and sped up a bit to get some momentum to push it through the river. The stones on the bed were much bigger and more difficult to negotiate for the car we had, and the water turned out to be deeper than expected.

Soon the water started seeping into the car and I too had to lend my hand to push through. In the process the engine of the car got hit underneath by boulders a number of times but the engine hummed and somehow we still managed to cross the river as we cheered together and moved on.

We must have gone hardly a few kilometres when I observed the engine light blinking red on my dashboard. In hindsight, I felt I had made a terrible mistake and a big blunder by being a little too casual.

Upon crossing the river, I should have checked whether the oil

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Today, when I look back, I take it as a crazy and overadventurous trip chamber or the engine was affected.

But the damage had been done.

Thinking there would be some oil left in the chamber, I took some soap from my shaving kit to plug the spot from where the oil was oozing out drop by drop. Relying on an engine treatment product, I decided to drive on cautiously and slowly.

It must have been another 2 kilometres from Ramganga in an ascent, when a continuous descent started. Spending the night in the

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car in the midst of an elephant territory, would have been the most dangerous thing to do.

As we rolled down, we came across a few absolutely fresh pug marks of a tiger. We continued on the descent for several kilometres when I came across an elevated bungalow-like structure across the flowing stream.

I stopped the car and called aloud to attract human attention within hearing range. Getting no response from anywhere, we moved into the 'ghost' bungalow and decided to spend the night there.

We were not even settled in the room when we heard the sound of a vehicle approaching. As it came nearer, we could see its headlights.

I asked my family members and children to stay inside, and stepped out to stop the car.

The car stopped behind ours.

The occupants turned out to be government officials who were coming back after inspecting some micro-mini hydel project in the upper regions of the forest.

After ascertaining that it was safe, I sought their help for towing arrangement. Somehow we managed to tow our car slowly. We continued our journey till Dugadda where the forest road connects to the state highway from Kotdwar to Pauri.

I do not remember the names of those people who were our saviours that day, but I will always be grateful for their selfless benevolence.

The writer is the CMD of Raheja Developers.

For already published stories and films on wildlife which have run on National Geographic channel, Doordarshan National channel and Doordarshan (India), please log on to www. rahejagroup.org

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THE GLOBETROTTING BADSHAH From riding pillion in Italy to enjoying a weekend in Dubai, falling in love with London or visiting the iconic Taj Mahal, Bollywood’s Badshah, Shah Rukh Khan loves travelling.

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W O R D S|AA RTI K A PUR SING H

H

e had nearly five million Twitter followers and a fan base that is approaching two billion. But his fame is what keeps the most followed Khan with whirlpools for dimples from being the 'most travelled one' as well.

a luxury aircraft someday’ and is rather fond of travelling – even if that means he is cooped up in a hotel room with a book. Here's a revelation of Shah Rukh Khan, the globetrotter.

“I am not complaining about the access to the best that life has to offer, I do wish I had a less famous name and face – it is indeed a hassle when I am travelling,” says the actor

What is the charm of travelling, for you?

I like that feeling of being taken away – if I am in a plane – that feeling of being flown by a pilot, that somebody is carrying me somewhere – that I am being taken care of. It might sound silly and strange – but I do feel bad when a flight reaches its destination, because that is also the end of the pampering by the in-flight staff. I love planes because they allow me to catch up on my sleep as well.

Shah Rukh Khan does rue the fact that he is recognised. The jetsetting superstar hopes to ‘own

What are your favourite destinations?

Once you get married and

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have children, those choices are dictated by your family. But I am blessed we all like London a lot.

More so now since Aryan is there.

London is my favourite city. I love Hyde Park. I still have a map of the tube from the first time I went to London. I like Dubai also simply because it is a quick getaway. If I want to just take the weekend off, we can go to Dubai. I also like Malaysia and have wanted to go to Vietnam ever since I saw Apocalypse Now. Do you remember your first holiday?

My parents used to encourage us a lot to experience the world and see, hear and feel the differences.

Once I was an usher at Pankaj Udhas’ concert in Delhi as a school kid – in fact that was my first ‘job’ if you can call it that. I earned `50 from it and asked my mom what to do. She told me I should

FAST FACTS All of Shah Rukh Khan’s cars bear the registered number 555, as he is very superstitious about it.

The most popular names of his characters are Rahul, portrayed in nine films, such as Kuch Kuch Hota Hai (1998) and Chennai Express (2013); Raj in six films like Raju Ban Gaya Gentleman (1992) and Rab Ne Bana Di Jodi (2008).

The actor was paid a sum of `25,000 for the film, Kabhi Haan Kabhi Naa in 1994. Shah Rukh reportedly sold tickets at the booking window of a Mumbai theatre on the opening day of this film.

Shahrukh is a very avid reader, and can be found reading more than four to five books at a time.

He had his wax statue installed at Madame Tussauds museum in London in 2007.

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I LIKE COLLECTING WATCHES. MY KIDS JOKE THAT I COULD OPEN A MUSEUM WITH THE NUMBER I HAVE

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go to the Taj Mahal and I did. It was very enriching.

So what does the King of Bollywood do when he wants to take a break?

I so crave for that luxury, given my schedules, but if I have a choice to escape the cacophony, I would either play with my children – Aryan is away studying but we still have online matches, Suhana takes pity on me and comes cycling, Abram has begun to enjoy rough and tumble. But the best thing to do would be to take a holiday with my brood!

What do you do whilst on holiday?

It again depends on my mood – I won’t change my personality just because I am on a holiday. Though where I am can have a bearing on how I feel and what I do. Sometimes I play with my kids, but mostly I am always accused of being anti-family

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and anti-social as I am always by myself - not participating in family activities. I will be curled up in a corner with black coffee and a book.

How about shopping?

I don’t shop at all! Gauri does all my shopping – but if I am around, I will shop for watches. I love buying watches. My Carrera B4 is my favourite, because of its car fan belt and its unique mechanism.

Steve McQueen wore it in the Hollywood racing film, Le Mans.

So I like collecting watches that way. My kids joke that I could open a museum with the number I have – perhaps it is a good post-

Gauri once drove me around on a scooty in Italy. I loved riding pillion with a helmet

retirement idea. I also collect maps of places I visit.

Your favourite cuisines and restaurants across the globe…

I am not fond of eating at all and so very boring company for a foodie.

I can pass the whole day without realising that I have not eaten.

I don't like eating at restaurants.

No wonder my friends don't like eating out with me! I've travelled all over the world and tried out all the local food wherever I've been, but my favourite would always be homemade dal-chawal or tandoori chicken! My daughter is very embarrassed that I cannot distinguish pasta from lasagna. If we do have to eat out as a family, we like Taj Lands End in Bandra as well as Buddha Bar in New York for its calm and serene atmosphere.

Food-wise, we like Nobu in London and Kittichai in Soho.

Any interesting travel experiences?

I dare not say this more often than I do, but I love being pampered by my wife – so I love holidays where I don’t have to decide where to go, what to eat. Gauri drove me around on a scooty once when we went to Italy. I loved riding pillion with a helmet. Travel in any case is all about experiences. If I begin narrating all, we will finish this chat in one question. Most of my travel experiences involve my fans and the love that they shower on me. It does get obtrusive at times. In 2002 when I first went to Jakarta, we were supposed to make an appearance at a mall, I think for the promotions of One Two Ka Four. There was such a stampede just to see us that a couple of shops were damaged. I wish people recognised me a little less. It would allow me to travel a lot more than I do. Perhaps they will not pay so much attention when I’m old and wrinkled.

LONDON IS MY FAVOURITE CITY. I LOVE HYDE PARK. I STILL HAVE A MAP OF THE TUBE FROM THE FIRST TIME I WENT TO LONDON. I LIKE DUBAI ALSO SIMPLY BECAUSE IT IS A QUICK GETAWAY

You don't travel without...

My iPod, headphones, laptop, sunglasses and books in my Louis Vuitton holdall. I carry it with me everywhere – even if I don’t use it.

Any travel tips…

Leave the packing to your wives!

Pretend you are really bad at it and wherever you go, meet the local people – talk to them as that’s the best way to actually get to know a place.

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PARSLEY

A CULINARY HERB

Parsley is not just a pretty decoration but an aromatic leaf of a biennial herb. A rich source of vitamins, it is highly nutritious.

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powerful source of nutrients ranging from anti-oxidants to folic acid, parsley can be consumed in different ways. There are more than 30 varieties of parsley, but the most common are flat leaf (Italian), curly leaf, and parsnip rooted (Hamburg). The flat-leaf has more flavour than curly parsley and is preferred for cooking, while dried parsley has little flavour at all.

Parsley is particularly rich in Vitamin C and Iron, and it is especially used as a spice with medicinal properties ORIGIN AND DISTRIBUTION

A native of Sardinia, parsley is widely cultivated in the Mediterranean region and the USA. It is a cold weather crop, growing best in rich, moist soil. In India, it grows better at higher altitudes.

HISTORICAL DESCRIPTION

Parsley’s botanical name Petroselinum is derived from the Greek word for stone, which is petro, because it was found growing on rocky hillsides in Greece.

According to a legend, parsley

“PARSLEY - THE JEWEL OF HERBS, BOTH IN THE POT AND ON THE PLATE.” ALBERT STOCKLI

EACH SPICEJET AIRCRAFT HAS BEEN NAMED AFTER A PARTICULAR SPICE. IN THIS ISSUE, WE TALK ABOUT THE BENEFITS AND USAGE OF PARSLEY.

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PARSLEY RECIPE Louisiana Cajun Gumbo with French Baguette

By Chef Narender Singh For Roux 1/4 cup flour, 1/4 cup vegetable oil, 2.25 tsp vegetable aromat powder For Gumbo 1/4 cup okra, 2 tbsp carrots, 1/4 cup sweet potato, 2 tbsp leek, 2 tbsp celery, 1/4 cup onions, 2 tbsp green bell peppers, 2 tbsp scallion, 2 tsp garlic, 1 tbsp vegetable oil, 1 bay leaf, spice mix (cumin, paprika, pepper), 1 tsp tabasco sauce, 1 tbsp parsley, 1 French baguette

sprang up where the blood of the Greek hero Archemorus was spilled when he was eaten by serpents.

The Greeks used the herb to fashion wreaths for graves. The Romans are said to have used it to cover up the smell of alcohol on the breath, while also aid in digestion.

A SUPER FOOD

Parsley is not just a pretty decoration. It is a powerful source of nutrients ranging from anti-oxidants to folic acid and an excellent source of Vitamins B and A. It assists in the treatment of kidney stones, urinary tract infections, high blood pressure, gastrointestinal conditions, colic, fluid retention, coughing, diabetes, prostate problems, osteoarthritis and spleen issues, arthritis, anemia and bad breath. The folic acid in parsley helps in minimising the risk of colon and cervical cancer.

Applying parsley to the skin eases the discomfort of lice, irritated skin, bruises and bug bites. It is even known to stimulate hair growth.

Fresh or dried parsley may be used in eggs, soups, pastas & sauces CULINARY USES

Parsley possesses diuretic, carminative, anti-pyretic properties.

The herb is commonly used for garnishing and seasoning of foods.

It is also used as a seasoning in meat and poultry.

Its leaves are eaten fresh when incorporated in salad and are also used as an ingredient in soups, stews and sauces. Its roots are used as a vegetable in soups. The dried leaves and roots are used as condiments.

The juice of the fresh leaves is used as an insecticide. Parsley herb oil and parsley seed oil are obtained from steam distillation.

Fresh or dried parsley may be used in omelets, scrambled eggs, mashed potatoes, soups, pasta and vegetable dishes. Parsley is also added in sauces to accompany fish,

Method 1. Boil 600 ml of water with vegetable aromat powder, mix well and take off heat.

2. In a wok, heat oil on lowmedium heat. Add flour. Keep cooking for 2 minutes till it turns golden brown.

3. Add half the prepared vegetable stock to the flour mixture and stir. Add the rest of the stock, bring heat to low and stir for 3 min. Keep aside.

4. In a pan, heat oil on medium heat, add garlic, onions and cook for 30 sec. Add celery, green bell pepper and bay leaf.

Add okra and cook for 2 min.

5. Add carrots, sweet potatoes, leek and spice mix. Add parsley and slowly stir in the roux sauce. Let the gumbo simmer (half-covered) for 4 to 5 mins on low heat. Add tabasco and scallions. Add salt to taste.

Serve with French Baguette.

Recipe Courtesy: CookGourmet.co

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72 poultry, veal and pork. It is included with garlic and butter for making garlic bread or simply garnishing a juicy, sizzling barbecued steak.

Parsley is a key ingredient, along with mint, in the healthy and nutritious Middle Eastern salad, tabouleh. In ancient times, parsley wreaths were used to ward off drunkenness.

OTHER BENEFITS

○ Parsley root has been used medicinally since ancient times for digestive disorders, bronchitis, and urinary tract problems.

○ Parsley is rich in Vitamins and minerals, particularly Vitamins A and C, and compounds that clear toxins from the body. ○ It also reduces inflammations, contains histamine inhibitors and is a free radical scavenger. ○ Commercially, oil from the seeds is used to scent Oriental style perfumes and colognes. ○ Due to its high chlorophyll content, it acts as a breath freshener.

SERVING TIPS

○ Choose fresh parsley whenever possible and make it one of the last

STORAGE Rinse and wrap Parsley in a paper towel and then a plastic bag and refrigerate it. You can also freeze parsley! Just clean, chop and let dry then put it in a bag and freeze it.

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ingredients to add to your dish to enjoy the maximum benefits. ○ Try a dash or two in soups, tomato sauce, salads, or sprinkle chopped parsley on vegetables right before serving. ○ Combine chopped parsley, garlic and lemon zest, and use it as a rub for chicken, lamb and beef. ○ Use parsley in soups and tomato sauces. ○ Prepare a colourful salad of fennel, orange, cherry tomatoes, pumpkin seeds with parsley leaves. ○ Sprinkle chopped parsley on salads, vegetable sautés and grilled fish.

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YOGHURT

IN DIFFERENT AVATARS

Don’t just eat yoghurt. With the mercury soaring, hydrate yourself this summer with refreshing protein-packed yoghurt-based drinks.

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nce limited to meals in the form of a raita, yoghurt is today consumed abundantly, especially in summer, as part of myriad refreshing drinks. And these can be equally enticing. It is the thick texture, tangy flavour and high protein content of yoghurt, that contributes greatly to its popularity, making it the perfect base for several drinks.

A glass of thick white lassi with a dollop of cream, can be the answer to one’s thirst quenchers in summer The world over, yoghurt is used to make interesting drinks. There’s Ayran, the salted foaming yoghurt brew of Turkey; Borhani, the fragrant herbal drink of Bangladesh; and Doogh, the Persian cooler made with mint, yoghurt and club soda.

Back home, lassi is a drink that is synonymous with both summer and yoghurt, but there is much more to the versatile yoghurt’s offerings than just lassi.

Yoghurt lends itself easily to several other ingredients. It can be combined with maple syrup, rose water, kewra, honey, jam, fresh or dried fruits, suggests Davinder Kumar, Executive Chef, Le Meridien, Delhi, depending upon the kind of drink one is looking for.

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GO GREEN GREEN SMOOTHIE Recipe by Executive Chef Davinder Kumar, Le Meridien, New Delhi Ingredients Avocado (ripe) Basil Yoghurt Honey

Quantity 1 no.

1 spring 200 gm 2 tbsp

Method: 1. Peel avocado, remove seed put in a bowl, mash and keep aside.

2. Clean and wash basil leaves.

3. In a food processor, blend together avocado, basil leaves, yoghurt and honey with crushed ice.

4. Serve this drink chilled with fresh basil leaf as garnish.

Mango lassi

FRUITY FLAVOURS

Fruits are the most obvious and healthy combination with lassi.

Several fruits can be added to lassi to give it a fruity twist. Good ol’ mango is naturally the first choice, but chiku, apples, bananas, sitaphal, are other fruits that do well in a lassi. Angoori lassi with grapes is unusual, but enjoyable.

But what really refreshes the palate in summer is the gulkand lassi made with rose petals, which makes the drink even richer.

If fruits are what one enjoys, then the options with yoghurt can be many. A smoothie with fruits and yoghurt can be a healthy drink for summer, filling and refreshing.

Smoothies have, in fact, become a breakfast drink for many who are looking for a power-packed meal.

Chef Davinder quips, “Fruits can be used as pulp, puree or juices, along with yoghurt for making mouth-watering smoothies.” After all, a delicious and playful blend of real fruit and creamy yoghurt provides a healthy dose of Vitamin C, calcium and protein.

Often people are concerned about which fruit to add to yoghurt. But one merely needs to be experimental and use any fruit according to one’s preference. Citrus fruits too can be used. Tartness of such fruits can be rounded off by adding honey.

Watermelon, yoghurt mint leaves and honey combined, make for a delicious drink. Bananas, mangoes, blueberries, pineapples and strawberries are other popular choices. Dates could also be added

Smoothies offer a power-packed meal as a breakfast option to give a boost. For crunch and texture, nuts, flaxseeds and even butterscotch can be added. For those seeking variety, vegetables like spinach and beetroot can be combined with yoghurt for a healthy smoothie, but in a small proportion.

Those adhering to diet goals too may benefit from a yoghurt drink. They can opt for a low calorie, low fat yoghurt or Greek yoghurt, as that has more protein and lesser carbohydrates compared to traditional yoghurt,

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Left: A variety of yoghurt drinks topped with different spices

76 owing to the number of times it is strained.

SAVOURY DRINKS

In India, the term buttermilk refers to the liquid that is left over after extracting butter from churned yoghurt. Many prefer this watered down version as it is comparatively lighter. It is generally consumed before a meal as an appetiser or along with a meal.

Masala chaach with ground roasted cumin, salt, ground white or black pepper, green chili pepper paste, is the best bet when you’re out in the heat.

Interestingly, this is consumed all over India in different avatars.

Known as Moru in Tamil Nadu, mustard seeds, curry leaves and asafoetida or hing are a must in this summer cooler. In Andhra homes, Majjiga, is a must-have after a meal to aid digestion. Fresh home-made yoghurt is best used for this. A hand churner made of wood is generally used to churn the drink to impart the right texture.

June 2015 | www.spiceroutemag.com

Chef Davinder also points out that buttermilk with slight variations is consumed as Ghol in Bengal, Mattha in North India and Tak in Maharashtra.

Those with savoury taste buds can opt for Namkeen kheera lassi made with finely chopped cucumber, roasted cumin and rock salt added to the lassi. This is doubly refreshing and light, as cucumber has a high water content.

The quality of the yoghurt, matters greatly. If one has well-set yoghurt,

it is best to keep things simple.

Try mixing yoghurt with a touch of salt, sugar or both. Then add a little water to dilute it. Gulp it down chilled. Else, you can use Greek yoghurt, which is a lot healthier anyway.

The unique thing about yoghurt is that one can sweeten it or spice it up as per one’s own palate preferences. And the resultant drinks are refreshing and easy to digest. Perfect for summer!

DID YOU KNOW? ○ Greek yoghurt has more protein, almost double the amount than its traditional counterpart. ○ Yoghurt in any form provides probiotics that are beneficial for digestive health. ○ The liquid found on the top of yoghurt is whey and can be mixed back into the yoghurt as that too is a source of calcium.

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SAREE WITH A TWIST

The new age Indian designers have brought in amazing twists and spins into the timeless and classic traditional saree... some of which we quite admire!

W O R D S | GUNE E T O B E RO I

C

ould you ever think that a six yard saree can become one of the most trendiest attires? From time immemorial, the traditional saree has been considered as the most elegant and beautiful piece of garment that accentuates a woman's beauty. International brands have entered the Indian market and attracted the younger generation, yet this iconic six yard drape has managed to rein supreme in the fashion domain.

June 2015 | www.spiceroutemag.com

With changing times and the younger generations’ desire to be in fashion, has inspired designers to revive the saree trend Designers like Masaba Gupta, Shivan and Naresh and Nikhil Thampi have played with the classic ethnic drape and created new avatars that cut across all age groups. “Re-invented versions of

traditional sarees are the trendsetter these days. Donned by the maharanis and domestic help alike, the pompous Saree adulates the Indian body type like no other ensemble. They should be revolutionised from time to time.

Styling a saree is endless these days which evolved versions like Drape saree, Dhoti saree, Pleat saree, etc.

So reinventing the six yard drape is the new trend and you play by baring a bit and daring a lot,” says couture designer Lalit Dalmia.

DHOTI STYLE

Dhotis were traditionally considered as a staple garment for men, but with times changing and new trends coming in, the dhoti soon became extinct. But thanks to our soughtafter fashion designers, the dhoti is back and is here to stay. Just that now it is a stylish addition to the traditional saree.

When superstar Sonam Kapoor donned an Anamika Khanna dhoti saree at the red carpet in Cannes, it became an instant hit amongst the fashion aficionados. The trend further spread like wildfire and many designers started introducing their versions of a dhoti saree. It is important to note that this new age saree brings with it a change in the conventional blouse and petticoat style as well. The jacket style blouse compliments the dhoti saree in all its grandeur. A chic cropped embroidered jacket goes well with the dhoti saree look as it displays the perfect fusion of Indian fabrics in

western silhouettes. The new age fashion connoisseurs are conscious of the desires and needs of the younger generation. Therefore, to make it easy for them they have done away with petticoats and added tights in place of them.

GORGEOUS GOWNS

Combine the six yard staple's classic structure with a zipped up gown.

The result is – a light weight, easy to wear, comfortable yet stylish saree which will not be all over the place while you shake a leg at

EVOLUTION The five and a half meter drapes and Indian cinema share a long lasting relationship. Its been more than 100 years and the silver screen has witnessed a complete journey of saris. ○ The golden age of 50s wore it with cropped blouses and peter pan collars, draped in traditional styles . ○ The 60s was all about styling from Asha Parikh's stylised drape to Mumtaz's iconic sari. ○ The 70s was fun with tied up blouses and carelessly taken saris. ○ The 80s saw a plethora of silks, Kanjeewarams and florals. With the dawn of big movie banners, saris also got a dignified twist. If Rekha and Sridevi made chiffons every girl's dream sari, Madhuri and Juhi brought a young look to the drapes. ○ The 90s began the designers brigade taking the front seat and saris got a makeover with innovations pouring in.

Inset: Gown saree by Lalit Dalmia; Right: Sonam Kapoor sporting a new age saree

your sangeet night. For the modern woman-on-the-go, this mix of fluidity and construction gives a new appeal to the conventional saree.

The gown sari looks best in lace and net fabrics as it gives a princess feel to it and young girls prefer wearing it at their pre-wedding ceremonies.

○ Now, the traditional drapes are contemporary in every way. With Sonam Kapoor endorsing saris with dhotis and capes, Deepika bringing the culture of pre stitched saris, the sari game has definitely taken a twist.

Courtesy: Sanya Dhir, Brand Director DIVA'N

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With the increasing need to go global, sarees have undergone a process of 'cocktailisation' inspiring a new wave of fashion trends. Gown saree is actually a boon for girls who do not know how to drape a saree.

PRETTY PLEATS

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Just tuck it or zip it, accesorise it with a glittering kamarband and you are ready in a jiffy to sizzle.

If this bit of information doesn't tempt you then go down memory lane and remember Kareena Kapoors' dance on the song Chhamak Challo wearing a pre-pleated stitched saree cum skirt. That was a concept saree by designer Anand Kabra which became a rage then. Originally made to lessen the hassle of women tying neat pleats, the emergence of prestitched sarees made draping easier and simpler. Also known as Kalidar sarees, this trend was an instant hit with youngsters as such a saree could be customised as per the shape and size. The best part is that you don’t need anybody’s help and it is the best bet for first time saree wearers.

PANT REPLACING PETTICOAT Wish to look younger, chic and modern? Dare to try the pant style saree. Dump the conventional and replace the traditional petticoat with leggings or pallazos. This latest trend will add quirk to your vintage saree and will reinvent the humble drape. Team it up with chic

Left: Spring 2015 Collection

by Priyanka Gupta; Below: Paris Hilton in a saree inspired gown during her visit to India

Replace the petticoat with leggings or pallazos to add quirk to your ensemble blouses, long jackets and waistcoats to up the glam quotient and add the oomph factor to this traditional Indian attire. Designers such as Masaba has recently designed a collection of such quirky pallazo sarees for the Satya Paul collection.

The saree in this style needs to be shorter in length from 2.5 metres to 3 metres.

The success of this new-age sari is no more confined to its aesthetics, but has enormously enhanced the commercial value of this ensemble.

Designers have ventured into an unmapped territory only to create a mania for this age-old classic.

MORE TRENDS Sari belt: Anushka Khanna, Vikram Phadnis and Yogesh Chaudhary were famous for bringing in this trend.

Handkerchief drapes and scarf knots - Farah & Firdos, Debarun, Agnimitra Paul and Naeem Khan brought this trend on the ramp.

Bikini saree – Shivan and Naresh's bikini saree was a desi version of the LBD. June 2015 | www.spiceroutemag.com

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AT HEAVEN'S DOORSTEP

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An enchanting paradise nestled among the mighty Himalayas, Sikkim is a treasure trove for nature lovers with a dramatic landscape.

PH OTO G RA PH S

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A Himalayan landscape June 2015 | www.spiceroutemag.com

| BHASWARAN BHATTACHARYA

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SpiceJet offers direct flights to Bagdogra from Delhi and Kolkata, along with convenient connections from other cities too. For details, log on to www.spicejet.com

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A typical village in Sikkim

A glimpse of the local flora shrouded in mist June 2015 | www.spiceroutemag.com

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Little Lama at Rinchenpong monastery

Children at Kaluk on their way to school

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The fried momos, available at most local stalls, are quite irresistible

86 Himalayan Rhododendron in full bloom

Prayer wheels at Rinchengpong Monastery June 2015 | www.spiceroutemag.com

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NURTURING NATURE Planting fruit trees not only combat global warming and climate change, rather it is a sustainable way to help fight hunger and poverty. Learn more about the initiative...

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World Environment Day is celebrated every year on June 5 to raise global awareness to take positive environmental action to protect the planet Earth.

W O R D S | NE E LA M SING H

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T

rees aren’t just about clean air, they perform many innumerable good deeds for us. They give and give and ask for nothing in return, except that they be allowed to co-exist with our air-conditioners, smoke-belching trucks, fossil-fuel burning cars and manufacturing industrial plants.

According to scientific studies data, the simplest way to combat climate change and alarming levels of pollution is to plant trees

Sustainable Green Initiative (SGI) was started with the aim of joining the two dots – climate change and food insecurity. In the past five years, there has been more news about climate change than ever. The drought in California, which is in its fourth year; the political situation in Syria that has been exacerbated by droughts; flashfloods in Uttarakhand; the cyclone in Odisha, the list of damage done by climate change is endless. At the same time, there are people suffering from food insecurity, not knowing where their next meal is going to come from.

SGI was formed in October 2012 with two aims, one combating Green House Gases and second alleviating hunger and poverty. Since then they have planted 22,000 trees. They not

only plant trees, but also nurture the saplings for two years.

SGI did a pilot project in a couple of villages in Chamoli district of Uttarakhand in 2013, where the group planted 732 apple and cherry trees in fallow lands and backyards of villagers. These trees were sponsored by many people, for eg., Ruskin Bond dedicated an apple tree to his great-granddaughter.

CHALLENGES

Recalling the initial days, SGI founder Raj Mohan informs, “We are humbled and grateful with the way individuals and corporations have come forward to do their bit for the environment. Of course, you do have the odd-one out who doesn’t see the point in planting trees.”

IN HIS ENTREPRENEURIAL JOURNEY SPANNING NEARLY TWO DECADES, RAJ MOHAN HAS BEEN AT THE FOREFRONT OF YELLOW PAGES PUBLISHING AND INTERNET COMPANIES. HE FORMED SUSTAINABLE GREEN INITIATIVE (SGI) WITH THE INTENTION OF ADDRESSING CLIMATE CHANGE BY PLANTING TREES, AND HELPING BRING DOWN FOOD INSECURITY. June 2015 | www.spiceroutemag.com

AFFECTING LIVES

Right: The MD of Delhi Metro Rail Corporation celebrated World Environment Day 2014 by planting trees at Metro Bhavan, New Delhi

However, a lot of challenges were faced when it came to the entire process of sourcing the saplings, planting and nurturing them. Raj Mohan recalls, “One of our biggest projects, for instance, was in Kolkata, where we planted 1,000 tree saplings in a public park. Sadly, within six months, most of them were gone – stolen, cut down or uprooted during grass cutting, and dumped with garbage and concrete. Though, we have caretakers on our roll who nurture these saplings for two years.

But here, we failed and now plant in community lands where these trees will be safe.”

He feels that a lot can be done with more people understanding the importance of trees. While a number of organisations plant trees, but that is the easy part – nurturing them is the real deal.

WHY PLANT TREES?

○ Trees cool the streets and city and conserve energy ○ They save water and provide food ○ Help prevent water pollution and

Many groups plant trees, but that is the easy part - nurturing them is the real deal prevent soil erosion ○ Shield children from ultra-violet rays by 50 per cent ○ Trees heal and reduce violence ○ Create economic opportunities ○ Trees are teachers and playmates ○ Provide a canopy and habitat for wildlife.

SUPPORTING THE CAUSE

Raj Mohan further informs, “In our three years of coming into being, we are yet to meet an individual – friend, family member, stranger – who has not volunteered to help. Each planting campaign is announced over social media and we invite friends and family for the same – it is a joy to see grown-ups wear such easy smiles and getting their hands dirty reminiscing about their childhood spent near nature.

A number of them come with

Mulvany House, a 116-year oldage home in Kolkata, is home to 23 elderly women and men. Run by the Church of North India under the Diocese of Calcutta, the home is usually strapped for funds and relies heavily on donations from individuals and charitable institutes.

In early 2013, Sustainable Green Initiative (SGI) first came to know about the home as a possible place to plant fruit trees on community lands.

After 18 months of planting and nurturing 300 fruit trees in the home campus, its residents are now enjoying wholesome nourishment from fruits such as bananas and papaya. And that too free of cost. The administering body is even considering an auction or frequent markets for their patrons who can buy these organic fruits. SGI's work with intercropping the early-growth fruit trees with vegetables in the home’s campus now has vegetables such as spinach, radish, beetroots, flat beans, okra, brinjals, green pepper and coriander. The 23 residents of the home have been enjoying fresh, free, and organic vegetables that are grown in their own vegetable patch since August 2014.

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their children, hoping to help them identify trees. It’s true – many don’t know what a guava or a mango tree looks like!”

However, it is sad that despite an urge to help, most of the people don’t follow it up with action. They all like to see trees grow, give fruits and make the roads and avenues look lovely.

But when it comes to actual action in terms of money and time, the response could be much, much better.

AREAS OF WORK

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SGI works across India in planting trees in old-age homes, orphanages, schools and government land. They prefer to plant fruit trees to counter climate change and address hunger and poverty.

SGI endeavours to make tree planting ‘cool’ and an ‘in-thing’.

They offer to plant trees for people who want to celebrate birthdays, anniversaries, promotions, excellence in exams for their loved ones, and even in memory of those who passed away. Just a couple of months ago, they planted 83 trees on behalf of a man who wanted to remember his grandmother who died recently at the age of 83!

In urban and semi-urban areas, SGI identifies communities and beneficiaries such as old-age homes, orphanages, small trusts running schools with or without government aid and such others who have access to land where fruit tree planting and nurturing by SGI can lead to a sustainable income source.

Planting trees is a method of combating Green House Gases and Carbon Dioxide emissions SPREADING THE WORD

SGI reaches out to people through social media and internet activities.

Its blog announces their planting drives. SGI also participated in the Climate Reality Leadership Training in Delhi, conducted by Nobel Laureate Al Gore, the former vice president of the US.

In May this year, Sustainable Green Initiative was awarded a Certificate of Excellence by the Earth Day Network-India, for its Sheher Green Karo campaign.

FUTURE PLANS

Raj Mohan excitedly adds, “We have extremely ambitious plans – we are looking at planting a tree for every Indian and also reaching out to more individuals and organisations, and contribute to making tree planting a fun activity and one that each one feels responsible in doing.”

For more details log on to www.greening.in

DID YOU KNOW? ○ A mature tree sequesters up to a ton of carbon in its lifetime!

It also gives out enough oxygen needed by two human beings in their lifetime. ○ Planting a tree is one of the most satisfying activities of our lives.

Nurturing a tree we have planted and watching it grow and bear fruit is an extremely rewarding experience.

June 2015 | www.spiceroutemag.com

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RISING MEDICAL

TOURISM

In recent years, India has been attracting heavy foreign patients traffic for medical treatments. As per an estimate, the volume of medical tourists from across the world could reach up to 5 million by 2016, attracting additional visitors to the country.

WO RDS|NEELAM S INGH

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I

n the past few years, Asia has taken the lead as one of the most preferred destination for medical value travel. India is placed among the top three medical tourism destinations in Asia, mainly due to the low cost of treatment, quality healthcare infrastructure and availability of highly-skilled doctors, says a study.

Today, India boasts world-class

hospitals and state-of-the-art medical facilities, highly trained doctors offering treatments like developed countries at 1/3rd the cost.

WHAT ATTRACTS PATIENTS TO INDIA?

Medical tourism, more broadly health and wellness tourism, refers to the industry in which people from across the globe travel to other countries

to get medical, dental and surgical care. Growing insurance market, strong pharmaceutical industry, affordable international travel, and quality healthcare are increasingly making India a preferred destination.

India hosts about 1.27 mn tourists from countries such as US, UK, and Canada in addition to visitors from neighbouring countries.

Leading Obesity Bariatric surgeon

SPOTLIGHT

NEPHRO–UROLOGY CARE AT ITS BEST

T

he Karnataka based NU Hospitals is known for superior, yet affordable Nephro-Urology care. It is the centre of excellence for all Genito-Urinary system disorders and has various Sub-specialities like Dialysis, Pediatric Urology, Male Infertility, Laparoscopic Urology, Kidney Transplantation, Neuro Urology, Uro Gynaecology, Laser Surgeries for the Prostate and Stones, IVF and Female Infertility, etc.

Started in July 1999 at Padmanabhanagar, Bengaluru, another state-of-the-art 100 bed facility was recently opened at Rajajinagar, Bengaluru. NU Hospitals also runs Out Patient clinics at Ambur and Krishnagiri in Tamil Nadu. The reach to these Tier III towns has bought super speciality care to their door step.

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EXPERT ADVICE AND ETHICAL TREATMENT

The main strengths of NU Hospitals include the group’s experienced professionals, strict adherence to quality

Dr Abhay Agrawal informs that Medical Tourism is often a popular choice for patients who: ○ Are on wait-lists for care in their home country, ○ Have no health insurance or are under-insured, ○ Have been living abroad and prefer to go back to their homeland for care, ○ Are seeking more holistic or traditional options of care in addition to modern ones, and ○ Are looking to access experimental treatments or treatments that might be illegal in their homeland.

COST PLAYS A BIG ROLE

Dr Satish Bhatia, leading Dermatologist & Cosmetologist, opines that foreigners throng to India because of reasonable cost of treatment. The most common procedures done are globally June 2015 | www.spiceroutemag.com

protocols at all levels, and cutting-edge research.

“We are not only one of the leading NephroUrology hospital in South India but we were the first dedicated Nephro-Urology centre in DR. VENKATESH Karnataka. All this KRISHNAMOORTHY, Chairman and Founder has resulted in us of NU Hospitals gaining a unique perspective on nephro-urology medicine.

It has provided us with a wealth of experience, knowledge and expertise in providing quality care”, says Dr. Venkatesh Krishnamoorthy, the Chairman and Founder of NU Hospitals.

Over the last eight years, NU Hospitals have performed as many as 187 kidney transplants, 17,449 Urologic Surgeries and 1,08,961 Haemodialyses. A number of patients from abroad are also availing the specialised treatment of NU Hospitals.

Patients from other countries throng to India because of the reasonable cost of treatment

“We adhere strictly to quality protocols at all levels. Operating procedures of International standards are followed. As and when these standards are revised, our protocols are also updated accordingly.

DR. PRASANNA Periodic medical VENKATESH, Managing Director and audits ensure Sr. Pediatric Urology results that are Consultant comparable or even superior to those in the literature”, says Dr. Prasanna Venkatesh, the Managing Director and Sr. Pediatric Urology Consultant at NU Hospitals.

NU Hospitals Laboratory has been accredited with NABL, in March 2012.

NU Hospitals is also the first and only stand alone Nephro – Uro centre in India to get the prestigious NABH accreditation in May 2013.

approved Botox, dermal fillers, thread lifts and of late PRP (Platelet Rich Plasma Therapy). He says, “Foreigners are more prone to aging lines and sun damage, as they have less melanin pigment. As compared to European and western countries and the Gulf, skin surgery procedures are at least 50 per cent lower in India. Most of our overseas patients are from Gulf & Europe.”

Dr Tanvir Singh, BDS, MDS (Ortho), founder of Dentem, The Dental and Orthodontic Clinic, explains, “Earlier people used to travel from a less developed country to a highly developed country to avail the most advance treatments for themselves.

But nowadays, people prefer going to a developing country so that they can get best treatments at a very reasonable cost. India, being on the top of developing nations, is a centre that

SPOTLIGHT

FOCUSSING ON WOMAN’S HEALTH

S

agar Chandramma Hospitals (SCH) is a super speciality boutique hospital in Bangalore that boasts state-of-theart medical infrastructure, 24 private suites, and a relaxation center among other amenities. At SCH, the patrons are interested in ‘healthcare’, and not ‘hospital’.

Here, the entire patient experience is designed to mimic that of a relaxing spa environment – including fully medicallyequipped private Birthing Suites where the delivery is done in the privacy of your room – a first for the city of Bangalore.

Today, women hold an unprecedented

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fear of giving birth, associating it with excruciating pain, and often opting for unnecessary medical procedures.

SCH strongly believes in minimal medical TINTISHA SAGAR intervention. Along Executive Director, Sagar with routine options Chandramma Hospitals such as normal/ instrumental/c-section, we provide choices to manage labor & delivery through techniques that allow women to use their natural abilities to bring about easier, and comfortable birthing.

Options such as Hypno-Birthing (a technique where mothers learn to voluntarily relax their muscles by focusing on calming thoughts), Hydro-Therapy (where a mother relaxes in a warm birthing pool during labor) are gaining popularity at the center.

For more info visit www.babysagar.in

attracts thousands of foreign tourists for the same.” Dr Abhay Agrawal says, “On an average a patient can save 65% to 90% of medical bills by getting the treatment done in India. India now has world class hospitals and state-of-theart medical facilities, highly trained doctors/surgeons and paramedics who are offering treatments at par like most advanced medical centres in developed countries at 1/3rd the cost.”

Dr Hrishikesh Pai, India’s leading Gynaec & Infertility specialist attached to Lilavati & Bhatia hospital in Mumbai and Fortis Hospital in Delhi, explains, “No wonder then that medical tourism has been growing in leaps and bounds, especially over the past few years. This is especially true when it comes to treatment for infertility--it costs around 2,000-3,000 dollars in India, whereas it would cost upwards of 10,000 USD overseas.

June 2015 | www.spiceroutemag.com

Transparency, accountability and overall responsibility of care have been the main attraction of medical tourism state OFFERING VALUE-ADDED SERVICES

Dr Vijay D Shetty, Adult Hip and Knee Specialist attached to LH Hiranandani Hospital, Mumbai, believes, “One of the main reasons for a sudden influx of patients into India is because of numerous corporate hospitals offering value-added services to the patients at very competitive rates.” He further adds that the availability of highly skilled and trained health workers and doctors has made things even more comfortable

for the patients from overseas seeking treatment. Transparency, accountability and overall responsibility of care have been the main attraction of medical tourism.

Dr Tanvir Singh adds, “We, at Dentem, provide the most advanced and world class dental facilities. We have a guest house to offer our patients a cosy and comfortable environment. Yoga sessions are also made available to our guests and they are also provided with a trip to Agra. All of this and much more is well-designed as per the needs of our guests, so that they do not have to make any change in their itinerary.”

Dr Rajesh Rajput, Aesthetic & Hair Transplant Surgeon, attached to Hair Restore, Mumbai, highlights an interesting point. He says, “Doctors in India have always been considered more compassionate and understanding with their patients. Not only does the

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SPOTLIGHT

PUT YOUR BEST FOOT FORWARD

I

t’s easy to take your feet for granted.

Diabetics should do the opposite; pamper your feet! Your feet are especially vulnerable to diabetic complications.

Once those problems begin, it’s much more difficult to keep your feet and yourself healthy. In fact, foot problems caused by diabetes are the leading cause of hospitalisations for diabetic patients and ulcers are the leading cause of lower extremity amputations.

for a diabetic. A cut or blister can turn into an ulcer that becomes infected; muscle weakness can create hammertoes and bunions. Contact your doctor for any of these symptoms. ○ Persistent mild-to-moderate pain in the feet or legs ○ Any new blister, wound, callus or ulcer ○ Any new areas of warmth, redness, itching or swelling on the feet or legs ○ Pain in the legs or buttocks that increases with walking but improves with rest ○ Hair no longer growing on the lower legs and feet

WHY YOUR FEET ARE ESPECIALLY VULNERABLE

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People with long-standing or poorly controlled diabetes can suffer nerve damage to their feet, a condition called Peripheral Neuropathy (PN). Its sufferers may be unable to sense if their shoes are rubbing on the feet. It can also disrupt normal sweat secretion and oil production that lubricates the skin of the foot. These factors can lead to skin breakdown, sores and infections on the feet.

When blood sugar frequently goes above 250 mg/dL, your white blood cells,

which fight infections, become sluggish, making infections more difficult to control. Plus, poor blood flow means that antibiotics cannot get to the site of the infection easily.

Thus, diabetics are more prone to foot wounds, less able to notice them and gets more difficult to heal.

Common problems can be more serious

If you experience any of the symptoms listed above, you may be a candidate for a new treatment offered in India called Anodyne® Therapy. An infrared therapy system, this device has been clinically proven to reduce symptoms of diabetic foot disease. Over 18 published clinical studies support the efficacy and safety of this product. For more details, visit www.anodynetherapy.co.in

Thanks to Internet and social media follow up care is no longer a problem today

attached to Lilavati & Bhatia hospitals in Mumbai and Fortis Hospital in Delhi, further adds, “Advanced equipment, technology, updated modalities of patient management & professionalism attract a huge inflow of patients to India.

Availability of technologies like IMSI, PICSI, etc., with experienced & trained embryologists in place make a difference in fertility treatment. Having advanced equipment like embryoscope [advanced incubator system which enables the monitoring of growth of embryo] adds to the success rates of IVF.” Talking about the use of latest technologies, Dr Rajesh Rajput informs, “In hair transplant, we use the latest micro punches for harvesting stitchless FUE, Follicular Unit Extraction of individual single unit grafts. Hair growth is enhanced by proper post surgical care using vitamins, lotions, growth factors and the advanced LLLT, which is US FDA

DON’T IGNORE FOOT PROBLEMS

treatment matter, but a caring way of delivering the treatment makes it a therapy that heals the patient.”

TECHNOLOGICAL ADVANCEMENT Internet and social media have made the world even smaller. Dr Vijay D Shetty informs that follow up care is no longer a problem because of the technology available today. Telemedicine and video consultation is on the rise and follow up consultations are regularly held effortlessly.

“Apart from this, India also is a recipient of a lot of inventions and innovations in technology, which may happen overseas but due to the sheer number of patients undergoing it in India, these are perfected in the country by skilled and advanced experts who master them easily,” explains Dr Hrishikesh Pai. Dr Nandita Palshetkar, India’s leading Gynaec & Infertility Specialist June 2015 | www.spiceroutemag.com

ANODYNE® THERAPY MAY HELP

DIABETIC FOOT CURE NOW AVAILABLE IN INDIA

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The word "Anodyne" means pain relief. Anodyne® Therapy Systems emit infrared light at a wavelength of 890 nm, resulting in increased circulation and pain relief.

• Improve blood flow • Reduce stinging, burning foot pain • Improve wound healing • Reduce pain medication usage This treatment is drug-free, and can easily be delivered during an office visit. Fifteen studies have been published in peer reviewed journals demonstrating the effectiveness of Anodyne® Therapy for symptoms of neuropathy, restless leg syndromme and for non healing wounds.

Drug treatment typically masks the cause of pain, but Anodyne® Therapy gets to the cause of the problem - resulting in true relief. Furthermore, this treatment improves the dangerous loss of sensation that many diabetic patients experience for which there is no known drug treatment.

Anodyne® Therapy products are newly available in India, and are directly imported from the USA. Contact Anodyne Therapy Eqpt Pvt Limited at 91-80-23494345, or visit anodynetherapy.in for more information on how to obtain treatment with Anodyne® Threrapy.

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SPOTLIGHT

PROFESSIONAL EDUCATION – A PIVOTAL ROLE FOR PRIVATE SECTOR

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he Indian Higher education has undergone a seismic transformation in the last two decades.

The gross enrollment ratio in higher education is currently around 25 per cent and is targeted to reach 30 per cent by 2020. Much of that growth will occur in professional fields, such as architecture, engineering, healthcare, law and management.

The Ministry of Human Resource Development (MHRD) is driving many of the reforms behind this massive growth. Compulsory accreditation, teaching according to learning objectives, professional development of faculty and finally consolidation and clustering of centres of learning are all part of its strategies. The State Government’s education departments have also played a catalytic role by developing strategies for high growth (or ‘massification’ of higher education) that include a pivotal role for the private sector.

SRI. A.C. SHANMUGAM Chairman, RajaRajeswari Group of Institutions

The Indian Higher Education System today is plagued by three fundamental challenges. Access, Equity and Quality.

Globally, the private sector has played a key role in addressing these challenges.

Private institutions have played a key role in imparting professional education

approved Low Light Laser Therapy for hair growth.”

EXCELLENT INFRASTRUCTURE AND GOVERNMENT POLICIES

Another factor that plays a huge role in luring medical tourists to the country is the burgeoning infrastructure. India and its metro cities are now a global destination, with great flight connectivity. Over the last two decades, the economic boom in India has led to the building of medical facilities & infrastructure that rival the very best that western medical care has to offer. Plus there are no communication gaps as English is a universally accepted language here.

“With an age-old culture that promotes the concept of Athithi Devo Bhava, all guests, including patients and families are made June 2015 | www.spiceroutemag.com

With the government relaxing policies for patients on tourist visas, medical tourism has accelerated extremely comfortable here. There is no discrimination amongst patients coming from any place in the world.

Everyone has access to excellent care

in India since independence. In India , the private sector has helped in penetration and enrollment in hitherto untouched areas at least in professional disciplines.

Though there have been concerns about the quality of education imparted by these private educational institutions, their remarkable contribution can never be ignored.

In the coming years, the role of private sector can be expected to assume greater significance driven by the higher potential demand and insufficient expenditure by the Government on the capacity creation.

It is imperative that the Private Sector capabilities are fruitfully tapped. Private initiatives in higher education models including technical education along with viable and innovative PPP models should be fully promoted. ‘Not-for-profit’ tag in the higher education sector should, perhaps, be re-examined in a more pragmatic manner.

and treatment,” Dr Pai adds.

According to him, with the government relaxing policies for patients on tourist visas, medical tourism has received a further boost.

Dr Pai suggests a great option to boost medical tourism.

“When a passenger arrives in India on a tourist visa and wants medical attention, the government should cooperate and offer a facility to convert the tourist visa into one for medical reasons. They should not lose out on an opportunity to serve an overseas patient in need of medical attention.

Normally, patients are sent back on the tourist visa, made to re-apply and return to India. In the process, a high percentage of patients do not return.

This should be changed, if we really want to become an even bigger global medical tourism destination,” Dr Pai concludes.

Centers of Excellence 1100 Bedded Hospital 100 Bedded ICUs

 MOUs & Student Exchange Programs with various Foreign Universities

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#202, Kambipura, Mysore Road, Bengaluru - 560 074. Tel : +91- 80 - 29292929 Fax : +91 - 80- 2843 7393, Email : info@rrmch.org, enquiry@rrmch.org www.rrmch.org

SPOTLIGHT

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EXPERIENCE THE WONDERS OF

GIR FOREST

Seeing a majestic lion in all its glory in a natural setting is a lifetime experience one must have. Explore their natural habitat in Gujarat...

P H OTO GRA PH S | DINE SH SH UKLA

B

etter known as sole home of the Asiatic lions, the Gir Forest National Park and Wildlife Sanctuary offers you an opportunity to see them in the wild.

Slightly smaller than its African cousin, a large male lion of the Gir is quite a sight to behold June 2015 | www.spiceroutemag.com

Located in the Saurashtra peninsula of Gujarat in western India, the forest is a habitat of monkeys, deer, leopards and a wide species of birds. Hyenas, wild boar, sambhar, four horned antelopes and a rich variety of flora and fauna are also found here. Among the most famous birds that one can encounter during their tour are Black Headed Cuckoo shrike, Black Vultures, Pied Woodpeckers, Flamingo, Painted

Sandgrouse, Painted Storks, Shaheen Falcons, Crested Serpent Eagles and Fish owls.

HISTORICAL TALES

In 1901, Lord Curzon was offered a lion hunting tour while visiting Junagadh.

Knowing that these were the only lions left in Asia, he declined, and reportedly suggested to the Nawab of Junagadh that it would be better to conserve the lion population than to

The population of the ‘Jungle King’ has gone up from 411 in 2010 to 523 in 2015

KEEP IN MIND ○ No smoking whatsoever (cigarette butts cause many forest fires). ○ No flash or intrusive photography (for example, don’t pluck leaves to clear a better view; reposition the camera instead). ○ Picking plants or insects prohibited; do not remove anything from the park. ○ Always travel in vehicles, preferably with a guide. hunt it. The Nawab began what was probably the first institutional wildlife conservation effort in India and one of the earliest in the world, banning all lion hunting entirely.

SpiceJet has direct flights to Ahmedabad from Chennai, Pune, Muscat, Mumbai, Hyderabad, and Delhi. For more info, log on to www.spicejet.com

DID YOU KNOW? The local Maldhari community has lived here for generations and co-exists magnificently with the wilderness. They sustain themselves by grazing their livestock and harvesting what they need from the forest. The sizeable portion of their herds lost to lions and other predators is considered prasad, offered in exchange for living in another’s homeland.

When to visit: October to June

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SPOTLIGHT

ENSURING AN ALL-ROUND DEVELOPMENT

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104

mity University, the flagship institution of Amity Education Group, is one of India’s leading not-forprofit private university with a strong focus on research and innovation. In 2014, the university was recognised as ‘India’s Best Research University’ by the Indian Education Awards and was also ranked by QS as one of Asia’s top universities.

The Group since its inception about 2 decades ago, has established 8 universities and 18 schools with 11 overseas campuses, besides India and is home to over 1,25,000 students pursuing world-class education from prenursery to PhD. The university is working towards impacting India’s development and global image through education and research. Towards this end, the Amity faculty have filed over 590 patents in the last 4 years– by far the highest by any Indian University. It is also conducting over 300 high-end research projects funded by organizations like DRDO, & CSIR. The faculty has also developed over 1,000 case studies, bought across 62 countries by leading institutions

The Amity campuses have all amenities to ensure an all-round development for students that include expansive sports complexes, multi-cuisine restaurants, departmental stores, salon and 14,000 seater on-campus hostels, making for an unparalleled on-campus experience.

Amity’s unwavering focus on excellence in research, infrastructure and pedagogy has resulted in the coveted 'A' grade accreditation by NAAC - a distinction awarded to only 10% of Indian Universities.

ADD PANACHE TO YOUR HOME DECOR

T

he Furniture Republic, the storehouse of choicest & handpicked furniture & decorative accessories from across the globe, has opened a grand new store in Kirti Nagar, New Delhi, to offer uber cool interiors meant for the style connoisseurs of today who value

the finer things in life. Spread over a sprawling 1,200 sq ft at Kirti Nagar, New Delhi, the 3-storied new store has hand painted walls which give a fresh and elevated look.

The brand offers modern furniture for the urban-minded customer.

Their designs are stylish, modern and

vibrant and in tune with customer’s requirement. The store has a new range of products distinctively displayed for living room, dining area, bedroom and outdoor. A one stop destination for all your interior needs, the store offers exquisite Sofas, Sofa cum beds, Chairs & Lounges, Coffee Tables, Bar Units, Cabinets & Shelves, Beds & Bedsides, Carpets & Rugs, Poufs & Bathmats, Dining Tables & Chairs, Dining Sets, Side & End Tables, among others.

June 2015 | www.spiceroutemag.com

AIMING HIGH

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As globalisation brings countries together and competition rises in every industry and sector, developing quality human resource is of immense importance to India.

WO RDS | MIA GANDHI

I

t has been widely proven that highly skilled individuals with professional capabilities and higher intellect can realise greater economic well-being and higher standard of living.

It is imperative that a well established human resource base is essential in achieving success, and education in India has evolved to meet this goal

Thus, in order to provide a strong foundation to enjoy a dignified life, the right education holds the potential to transform lives. “The 12th Five Year Plan also lays emphasis on the role of education and states that education is the most important lever for social, economic and political transformation.

Accordingly, recognising the importance of education in national development, the Twelfth Five Year Plan places an unprecedented focus on the expansion of education, on significantly improving the quality of education and on ensuring

that educational opportunities are available to all segments of the society,� mentions the Annual Report, 2013-14, of Ministry of Human Resource Development.

FIRM FOUNDATION

To ensure that every individual grows into a strong willed, decisive and educated human being, the correct education begins at the grassroots, or at the primary stage. Every child has the right to access quality education, and the government has put forth numerous schemes to promote education.

SPOTLIGHT

NEED FOR SECRETARIAL STANDARDS TODAY

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company’s governance

CS ATUL H. MEHTA, President, ICSI

106

and management take place through a conventionally proven system of decisionmaking process, i.e., through General and

Board meetings.

There is a need to have standards of probity and fiduciary responsibility towards conduct of such meetings.

Transparency and accountability are considered essential characteristics of good corporate governance.

The challenge is to benchmark standards of excellence in the corporate sphere. Before Companies Act, 2013, there was no such non-financial standards duly included in the legislation.

It is here that the role of professional bodies such as the Institute of Company

Schemes such as midday meals, bridging the gender and social gap and providing adequate infrastructure for students, especially girls, have taken precedence.

It is widely known, that practical learning on the job is what matters most, however, having a strong foundation in a subject specific area or even being proficient in certain key skills will greatly benefit the individual.

Access to quality laboratories, workshops, exchange June 2015 | www.spiceroutemag.com

Secretaries of India becomes crucial.

They are expected to play a vital role in not only ensuring adequate supply of top quality professionals but also laying down standards of professionalism and encouraging uniformity and consistency of corporate practices.

To fulfill its role as an extended arm of the regulator towards ensuring adoption of best secretarial practices and ethical standards by corporate entities, the ICSI established the Secretarial Standards Board in the year 2000 with the objective of formulating Secretarial Standards.

SECRETARIAL STANDARDS AND THE COMPANIES ACT, 2013

The Companies Act, 2013, has recognised the need for every company to observe Secretarial Standards. Every company must observe these standards with respect to General and Board meetings.

Also, the company secretary must ensure that the company complies with the applicable Secretarial Standards.

With higher education, every skill and talent of students can be refined to meet the changing needs of the industry programmes, etc., leave an indelible impression on the minds of students.

Having the right foundation when it comes to technical education is equally essential, and students must be exposed to the current trends that take place in other countries, to be at par with the global competition.

The 12th Five Year Plan also lays emphasis on higher education and states that higher education is critical for developing a modern economy, a just society and a vibrant polity. It is with higher education that every skill,

NEED FOR SECRETARIAL STANDARDS

Although Companies Act, 2013 and rules framed under the act are detailed and comprehensive, yet there are places where law is silent. Companies follow diverse secretarial practices in complying with the law provision, in cases, where the Companies Act is silent.

The Institute of Company Secretaries of India (ICSI) is the first institution to issue Secretarial Standards. This will be effective from July 1, 2015. These Secretarial Standards shall apply to Board Meetings and General Meetings in respect of which notices are issued on or after July1, 2015. Around 8 lakh companies in India will have to comply with these Secretarial Standards to be fully compliant under Companies Act 2013.

By adhering to the Secretarial Standards, companies can ensure adoption of best practices. It will result in better corporate accountability, leading to better value enhancement to stakeholders, regulators and international investors.

every talent can be refined to meet the needs of the industry that constantly change.

As the professional arena is incessantly on the move, young professionals must anticipate or be ready to face any new development or challenge that comes their way.

TECH-SAVVY INSTITUTIONS

In this day and age, being accustomed with technology is not only an important skill to hone, but a compulsory one. With governments turning to paperless functioning, being adept with the latest technology plays a key role in any future endeavour at every level.

Schools, be it private or public, have adopted the Information and Communication Technology (ICT) and have introduced various sessions on

SPOTLIGHT

KEY TO CAREER SUCCESS of 2015 Batch getting hired by renowned companies in the first round of placements (till April 2015). The institute hosted 97 companies and students got placement in industry moguls like Dell, HCL Technologies, Orange Business Services, CSC India, Wipro, Virtusa, I-Gate, TCS, NIIT Technologies, Polaris, Lava, etc.

TEAMING UP

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.L. Bajaj, Greater Noida, stands out in its approach to aiding the students in their development, giving them a strong foundation for a successful future.

The institution’s endeavours have been reflected in the evaluation sheets.

In 2015, G.L. Bajaj has been once again ranked in the top spot in Noida and Greater Noida and among the top four, under the Uttar Pradesh Technical University (UPTU). In fact, for BTech first

year, it has achieved 86.69% clear pass.

The laurels do not end here: the institution has received the ‘Best Engineering College in UP’ Award, 2015 by the State Minister of HRD, Dr. Ram Shankar Katheria.

PLACEMENTS@G.L. BAJAJ

Training ahead of the recruitment drive helps the students bag lucrative offers with national and international concerns.

Campus placements at G.L. Bajaj have been a big success, with 91% students

Educational institutions must help students to think for themselves, and apply their study to practical examples the same. Colleges and universities too, across the nation have been following suit.

It is not enough to be only fluent in basic computing skills, such as in Word, Excel and Powerpoint; today, understanding the use and reach of the Internet, its benefits and other allied functions are also essential.

As businesses have been launched through the Internet and people have gained a voice through the Internet, it is necessary to underscore the need of students, be it at school level or college, June 2015 | www.spiceroutemag.com

This cloud-powered campus is not only accredited by TCS but is also the first and only institute in northern India that has a Microsoft Innovation Centre (MIC). It helps in skill development and entrepreneurship.

Partnerships with these and other behemoths, such as Cisco, and APS, Germany (for advanced robotics training) complement the regular course.

The institute also offers a number of supporting programmes such as MTA, PTC, Cloud computing, Java, .net, Big Data, etc.

Address: Plot. No 2, Knowledge Park 3, Greater Noida (UP)

to make them more acquainted with the possibilities that lie within its ambit.

RESEARCH AND INNOVATION

To truly push India into the higher league in the world, research and innovation play a key role.

Universities and schools here must move away from a typical ‘spoonfeeding’ pattern of education and push students to ‘think’ for themselves, and ‘apply’ what they study to practical examples. One of the main activities for colleges and institutions to inculcate is academic research, and help raise funds for various research groups as well as file for patents.

To truly establish a mark in the global platform, the nation must create a well functioning bank of human capital to meet the needs of the country, and develop and modify itself according to the future.

SPOTLIGHT

FOSTERING GROWTH

S

ince its inception in 1996, Sharda Group of Institutions has trained 36,000 students in multiple streams ranging from medicine to fine arts. Its state-of-the-art facilities help develop leadership skills and achieve professional excellence. It has four campuses in Agra, Mathura and Greater Noida, across 180 acres of land. It has built the right infrastructure to maintain an ambience for teaching and learning. With over 20,000 students from 46 countries, the university is culturally diverse. We provide top-ofthe line labs and live projects – cadenace labs, centre of competency in VLSI Design, etc. Sharda University provides in-campus facilities of a 900-bed multi-specialty hospital. There is a team of over 1,200 faculty members from India and aboard.

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IMPORTANT OF INFRASTRUCTURE IN THE EDUCATIONAL SECTOR

At Sharda University, sports and cultural activities are encouraged to build character, increase concentration and develop a competitive spirit.

Sharda labs are aimed at developing the technical underpinnings for the emerging high tech co-operative markets.

Here the focus is on new technologies that will enable the modern software and research to achieve new promises. Sharda University is centered on excellence. There are 11 schools offering various streams such as Engineering, Management, Medical, Dental, Law, Architecture, Mass Communication, Design, Biotechnology, Paramedical, etc. Each school has its own specialised laboratories.

NEW COURSES

Sharda University keeps itself aligned with leading industry trends. The new course of MBA banking services in association with Times Pro was launched. In the past, they have also launched courses with Tech Mahindra for BTech students. These courses are industry-oriented and prepare students for the corporate world. Sharda Industry Academic Connect Programme

June 2015 | www.spiceroutemag.com

offers various certifications like Cloud computing, J2EE, Android, Autodesh and more. These are the current requirements of the industry in firms like NTT data, global logic, Accenture and Infosys, etc.

The duration of these industry-centric courses varies from 40-120 hours of training provided by a technical expert.

They also have many high-end technology labs with certain companies such as Microsoft, Oracle, Cadence, Tevtron and KPMG to impart practical learning with best industry exposure.

THE PLACEMENT CELL

The placement team works in close coordination with top MNCs like KPMG, IBM, Oracle, Cadence and Tech Mahindra and more. In the year 2012-13, 73% and in 2013 –14, 85% students were placed through the campus drive. In 2014, students from MTech Electronics earned a package of `54 lakh from a USA-based company, Genesis Texas.

Till date, more than 1100 companies and top MNCs such as Tech Mahindra, TCS, Microsoft, IBM, Ericsson, Bosch, Indian Navy, Nestle, City Bank, HDFC, Steria, and Vodafone have recruited students from Sharda offering average packages from `6 lakh to 12 lakh.

The placement cell has a very strong

industry interface and provides industrial training at its campus. In an initiative by Tech Mahindra, 4th year students will go through rigorous training exercise by the firm designed to enhance their knowledge and increase their employability skill.

FUTURE PLANS

Sharda is the only university in India to have more than 27% international students from 46 countries and academic collaboration with over 80 global universities. This provides global exposure to national students by peer-to-peer learning in and outside classroom. Sharda is aiming to have 50% international students and academic tie-up with more than 100 global universities for student, faculty and research exchange.

MESSAGE FOR STUDENTS

There are many who manage to do just fine without a college education, but as, statistics plainly reveal, the more educated we are, the more productive we are in society. Choosing the right path for your future depends on what you love, and that is what you should do, irrespective of the field you choose.

Sharda University provides maximum exposure and knowledge to build intellectual capital.

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The images are for representation purpose only

UPDATE

STYLE IN THE

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AISLE From sober gabardine in the 1930s to the mod 1960s and plaids of the 1970s, cabin crew uniforms have evolved immensely over the decades.

Read on to know more ...

W O R D S | S H RUTI KOTH A RI TO M AR

M

ost uniforms across air carriers had a similarity that was palpable, given it was life post World-War II. In the mid 60s, high fashion found its mark in cabin crew uniforms. Thus, in keeping with the then fashion trends, the hemlines became shorter, miniskirts proved to be a hit and hot pants were sent sashaying down the aisle. The dark palette was replaced by a burst of red, orange and purple.

The era of the 70s saw a shift from solid monotones to patterns like checks, stripes, dots and more. Hats were a big thing too. “They are like the icing on the cake. They make a uniform complete,” The Guardian quoted Cliff Muskiet, a Dutchman who has been amassing cabin crew uniforms for over two decades.

June 2015 | www.spiceroutemag.com

During the 90s, uniforms became formal and more business-like. A lot of the western airlines had uniforms that went from gawd-awful to gorgeous

From shapeless uniforms on Southwest Airlines to ill-fitting jackets on Aer Lingus to hipsterlike fedoras and unbuttoned cardigans on Air Canada Rouge and floor length gowns on Singapore Airlines, in-flight uniforms have seen a drastic change (or not, in the case of Singapore Airlines and Air India, until recently).

Over the years, the cabin aisle has become a spot of fashion Ă la mode. The pencil skirt from the 1950s and buttoned-up blouse (such as the secretaries in Mad Men, an American period drama series) emerged at a time when career options for women were few and becoming an air-hostess was one amongst the select choices. The structured office look took to the skies and has become a staple of sorts when it comes to cabin crew uniforms.

Women finally left the typewriter and travelled the world.

In the mid 60s, hemlines became shorter, miniskirts proved to be a hit and hot pants sashayed down the aisle. The palette included red, orange & purple

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CHANGING TRENDS

Air travel has come a long way from its foot-loose, chainsmoking bodega that it once was to a no-frills, fuss-free corporate. Uniforms have changed too in accordance.

Flight crew who served the 'Don Drapers' of the day back then wore pillbox hats, skirt suits, psychedelic prints, bright scarves and some years hence, vivacious red mini dresses. While some trends have penetrated down to the 2000s, some have disappeared.

Airlines such as Virgin Atlantic, Qantas, and China Eastern, to name a few, redesigned their crew uniforms to breathe new life, might we add, fabulous

life to the cabin crew uniforms.

Virgin Atlantic is not new to high fashion. They abandoned the scarf and replaced it with a raised collar. China Eastern upped their game with printed scarves and the red sash.

Qantas brought the fedora back for its female staff. Then there are the French who know

how to keep it classy with European sophistication from the 1960s. It’s true, with red ribbon belts and pintucks, you can leave it to the French to do things stylishly. Aeroflot of Russia ditched the solemn black for a bright orange and Air Canada took the Homburg hat to another level by incorporating it into their uniform.

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INSPIRED BY TRADITION

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Apart from being trendy, a lot of countries opt for uniforms that represent their traditions.

Air India, for instance has always kept traditional attire centre-aisle.

But as of recently, the airline has swapped their trademark red, black and white combination for vivid mustard. Retaining their conventional style, the crew now wear a bright mustard sari with a red border, the traditional kurta in yellow topped with black trousers and a long black jacket with trousers. The male crew now wear black trousers, blue pinstripe shirt, red tie and black jacket.

Singapore Airlines staff has been dressed in the characteristic Sarong Kebaya since 1972 and will continue to do so as it symbolises more than just style. Fiji Airways has kept it authentic and conventional throughout. Emirates and most Middle-eastern airlines have

Domestic airlines blend Indian tradition with contemporary style in their attire introduced modern takes to their traditional garbs for their airline crew. Cathay Pacific also took the traditional route with a lovely red Cheong-sam skirt in the 1960s, but kept reinventing their uniform in

SMART & TRENDY

Known to be an airline with a difference, SpiceJet has spiced things up for passengers travelling on weekends with their weekend uniform for its cabin crew. Taking the cue from Friday dressing in the corporate world, the airline dresses their staff in bright saffron and red kurtis for women and black polo t-shirts for men, paired with smart denims.

The crew sport the regular uniform on weekdays, from Monday through Thursday. In keeping with the trademark colour of the airline, the crew don smart knee-length red skirts with small side slits teamed with a red jacket that adds a formal and structured look. The white shirt has a red accent running on the inside of the collar. Now after a decade in the sky, will SpiceJet be changing their 2005-era uniform anytime soon? All we can say is 'watch this space'!

June 2015 | www.spiceroutemag.com

the years ahead. Garuda Indonesia brought Indonesian batik to their uniforms with smart jackets and scarves.

DOMESTIC TALES

Domestic airlines went in for a major overhaul of uniform carrying the ‘hot & chic’ tag. From a one piece dress that comes with a hat and scarf, a mix of blue and white uniforms with an ornamented bandhgala (closed collar jacket), they blend Indian tradition with contemporary style.

Kingfisher airline, that has ceased its operations, had their in-flight crew wear short red skirts and a trendy rolled up sleeve jacket in red with a white shirt.

The cabin crew of Air Sahara, a defunct airline in India, sported silk saris designed by Ritu Beri, in orange and pink. Another defunct low cost carrier, Air Deccan had their crew sport blue and yellow shades. The crew wore long skirts with shirt and jacket, keeping the look conservative, yet comfortable.

The cabin crew uniforms have evolved like the airline industry.

The style graph has seen many ups and downs when it comes to cabin crew dressing.

But somewhere down the runway, the style quotient took off and there seems to be no sign of landing any time soon.

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KNOW YOUR AIRPORT

BANGKOK 116

SpiceJet operates daily flights from Kolkata to Bangkok, along with convenient connections from many other cities. For details, log on to www.spicejet.com

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uvarnabhumi Airport is the newer airport of Bangkok, the capital of Thailand. It is Southeast Asia’s busiest hub and one of the largest in the world. It is said to be one of the most strikinglooking airports ever built. Designed

by Helmut Jahn of Murphy/Jahn Architects, the airport building was constructed primarily by ITO JV. It has the world's tallest free-standing

June 2015 | www.spiceroutemag.com

control tower (132.2 mt), and the world's fourth largest single-building airport terminal (60 lakh sq ft).

The addition of perfectly landscaped, exterior gardens and beautifully decorated interior, make this one of the most charming airports

FOR TOURISTS

Tourist-specific info desks are located near gates 3 and 10 of the arrivals' lounge. Here you can get the info regarding taxi, transfer, hotel, and tour bookings.

If you’re in Bangkok just for the day, this is where you can book a short sightseeing tour of the city.

Also, copies of city maps and tour brochures are available here.

HIGHLIGHT

FOOD@AIRPORT

More than 50 dining options are available at the Airport, with a great majority being fast-food outlets and snack bars. Starbucks lead the coffee-trail, with several other coffee houses filling in the spaces between restaurants and souvenir boutiques.

SHOPPING GALORE

For shopper, the airport is a heaven.

A mind-boggling array of retail outlets offer alcohol, cosmetics, perfume, designer brands and

wonderful Thai souvenirs. The most distinctive is OTOP, a great spot to buy crafts made by hill tribe villagers from northern Thailand.

PAID LOUNGES

For short layovers, the airport offers paid lounges for travellers.

The fee includes six hours resting, showering, dining and drinking at these well-established dayhotel. Wi-Fi is free, you can take advantage of beauty spa treatments and also include food in your entry fee.

At the airport, there are many beautiful sculptures of giants reminiscent to those at Wat Pho. With god-like statues on one end and demonly statues on the other, they are seen pulling a large serpent (king of Nagas). In the middle, the snake is coiled around a structure set on a turtle with Indra (god) on top. This sculpture is the scene of Churning of the Milk Ocean or Samudra Manthan. It is said, that this structure holds the nectar of immortality; thus the airport represents a land of golden opportunities, prosperity and stability.

FACTS

Suvarnabhumi airport has 130 passport control checkpoints for arrivals, 72 for departures, 360 check-in counters and 100 additional counters for passengers without luggage.

Above: Airport interior; Right: Airport garden

Pic by David McKelvey

There are 107 moving walkways, 102 elevators and 83 escalators.

Amenities such as currency exchange, travel insurance, free airport Wi-Fi, luggage storage services, VAT refund for tourists, electric car services within the airport building, spa & sauna, among others.

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FORECAST FOR JUNE 2015

BY D R . PRE M KUM A R SH A RMA

ARIES

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TAURUS

House hunting trip may lead some to places they had never seen before! Become a perfect ‘yes-man’ if you want to remain on a safe wicket. Much love is showered upon you by a few family elders. You are likely to win someone’s heart by your genuineness. Perfect health is yours for the asking.

GEMINI

CANCER

You are likely to grasp a situation on the work front quickly and turn it to your advantage. A lucrative deal that brings in good returns is likely to be seized. Someone on the family front can annoy you. You may be forced to plan a trip with someone you don’t particularly like. Socialise more.

Good Luck Tip: Locate your bed so there is equal space on either side, giving both partners equal room to enjoy the relationship.

Good Luck Tip: Remove all rubbish, refuse and clutter from every room of the house, as this leads to stagnation in your life.

Good Luck Tip: If single, remove extra pillows or stuffed animals from your bedroom as they send the message that you have no room for anyone else.

Good Luck Tip: Maintain a good supply of fresh air by opening windows.

LEO

VIRGO

LIBRA

SCORPIO

Good Luck Tip: Fix any structural problems in your house, like painting walls, etc. This represents a gradual decline in your health.

Good Luck Tip: Throw out unwanted goods as this suggests holding onto the past.

This will help remove negative thoughts.

Good Luck Tip: If you wish to be the leader in your industry, place a dragon on the right hand side of your desk facing towards the window or the door.

Good Luck Tip: Keep the South area of your home or office tidy so that fresh energy keeps you spirited through.

SAGITTARIUS

CAPRICORN

AQUARIUS

PISCES

Good Luck Tip: Avoid too many electronic gadgets in the kitchen. Keep them inside cupboards, but never in open.

Good Luck Tip: Add healthy, organic foods to your diet, as these carry strong healing vibrations from earth that your body needs.

Good Luck Tip: If you live in a house with bad history, or negative experiences, you need to clear the energy. You can do it once a year or once a week.

Good Luck Tip: Clear your basement/garage areas and feel what a huge difference this makes in your home, and inner state of mind.

If you are planning to visit another city or town, this is a favourable period. Property owners can expect good returns from a property deal. Your suggestion on the professional front may elicit a lukewarm response. Some of you can be taken to task for something not done on the domestic front.

Bad financial planning can make you leave out something important, so be deliberate.

Friends can force you into something that may affect your health adversely. Professional front brightens up for some as new projects come your way. Some of you are likely to participate in a fun-filled activity on the home front.

June 2015 | www.spiceroutemag.com

You are likely to achieve total physical fitness by sheer self-control. Putting across your point most effectively at work will help you gain respect and recognition.

Some may have to cut corners to repay a loan. Tact and diplomacy will allow you to negotiate all the sharp corners.

An added skill on the professional front is likely to strengthen your career.

You will need to tighten your belt on the financial front as a major expenditure is foreseen.

A family elder may require your presence for something he or she wants done. There are encouraging signs on the romantic front.

There may be some constraints regarding money, so remain tight fisted. You may need to explain your point of view on the professional front. There is a thin line between true love and infatuation, so don’t get swayed. Some may get an image makeover.

You will find things moving in conformation with your plans at work.

Your power of motivation will help in putting together an efficient team on the professional front. Someone can provoke you into doing something and may even offer assistance for it, so be careful.

You know very well where your interest lies and you will spare no efforts in achieving that. Socialising will help you network better.

Peaceful home environment will enable some students to perform well. Savings will come in handy for organising an event at a short notice. Take good care of your health.

Chances of getting romantically linked with someone cannot be ruled out. The power of love may make you move to another city! A pending task is likely to be completed successfully at work. Some ideas implemented on the professional front will start showing results. Financial front remains healthy as wealth comes to you steadily.

You may not derive full satisfaction from what you are presently involved in at work. You may not be able to hog total limelight in a social function. Envy can get the better of you and compel you to avoid someone who is more prosperous. Those indulging in speculation will have reasons to cheer.

Those in the marketing field may have to do a lot of footwork. A family youngster may have to be made aware of the misdeeds committed. Love life can suffer from lack of interest and overfamiliarity. There are indications that some of you can be asked to travel out of station on a short notice.

Miracles of Numerology

The only numerologist to have predicted every political outcome, since 2001.

Sandhiya Mehhta

On 15th jan, 2015 Sandhiya mehhta received a new title as an award, ‘Glory of India, by former deputy Prime Minister of Thailand, In bangkok for her achievements and services to the nation and its people.

Sandhiya Mehhta, the ace Numerologist and Vastu expert is now a worldwide brand.

With unmatched knowledge and expertise, with her wisdom and its applications she has advanced the world of numerological sciences with researches in this field. These advances have helped her to help every human soul in return, to guide them to their enchanting dreams, gain power over their fortunes and to come alive.

With an aura of bright lights and her charismatic personality, she has achieved of what many dream. She is in the field for more than twenty five years, and in this journey has helped and exchanged energies and ideas, guided people to lead better lives, has received dozens of honours and recognitions, like ‘The Nari Ratna award, Indira Gandhi Priyadarshani Award, Rastriya Ratan award, Mahila Shiromani award, 4p Brand recognitions, titled ‘The Indian Nostradamous’, ‘The Global Indian Leaders excellence award and many more such appreciations.

————Numerology is the most accurate predictive science, and has evolved from the ages of people counting stars as numerical references to today where we add up all the calculations and we have an outcome that guides you to the events in your life, and stay prepared for them. It just does not give you knowledge, it empowers you to plan, sketch your future, grow as a person, rise and shine.

“To a person who seeks success, my system will bring success, happiness and prosperity. And to those who are already successful it will bring sustainability, positive reinforcements, further success and an introduce to a new and higher perspective and lifestyle.”

The Journey to my methods

“I am someone who has evolved, and with every step of my life have just tried to be better in what I love, I don't just predict your future, I communicate, consult and help you empower your energies.”

Every person is having an energy, a combination of them, and each combination is different, hence they have only certain types of energy and lack the other ones. This is what makes us human, that we can’t be perfect but we have to strive to be. My exclusive research and study of missing numbers in your birth graph helps me to determine what are the strong energies that I can see in you and uplift the missing energies to suit to your dreams and ambitions. With my years or research and positive successes, I help these missing energies in your graph. Its like providing nutrition to a body, by way of simple remedies and self improvement tools that I have developed by myself.

Advertorial

My advice

“Knowledge empowers you, and there is nothing more powerful than to understand yourself, your potentials, what holds you back, what drives you forward.” I provide you this knowledge about yourself, though numerology. Knowledge about finances, career, turnaround years, lucky dates, months, years, things that help you have a strong backup plan for everything in life. “No mantra, fasting, name changes singularly guarantees you anything. Ultimately its you who has to foresee the future, and I help you to do so.”

For any further personalized details about yourself or your family, guidelines, numerological analysis of yourself feel free to write in or call up on the following:

Sandhiya Mehhta HO: Mumbai: 022-26371670, 71 +91 – 9819921673, +91 9769071673 Delhi: +91-9654483695 Email: contact.yellowsoul@gmail.com Website: www.yellowsoul.in

Numerologist and Vastu consultant

The curious case of 4 & 8

“In my research, nearly 70% people are connected to these numbers. And once you enter the circle, these numbers will keep you in their loop for generations.”

One usually guards themselves because we have all heard a lot about disappointments and delays, sorrows and hardships of 4 & 8 and even 7. But I see them powerful steroids, to be handled carefully, and with the help of my numerology you may be closer to understand how to deal with 4 & 8 in your life. Then channelize it to positive planning and maximise your fortune’s profits. Feel blessed if you belong to them, we will empower your life and, learn through 4 & 8 and reap more fruits of your hard work than you would have previously did.

Is life simpler without 4 & 8: The other side of the story.

Individually every number has its massive merits but if it doesn’t get the support of your fadic/destiny number it cannot do much for you. 1, 9, 5 & 3 are very powerful numbers and should get magnanimous success as per individual calculations, but if you are still struggling and have faced certain problems you should try and understand your state of energies and de tangle the web to create a free way for your future.

“A bright star has its own energy, but lighting a lamp in the dark is much more meaningful.” We all are a mix of many numbers, their combinations play us differently and affects us differently. 1, 9, 5 & 3 are very powerful numbers and should get magnanimous success as per individual calculations but we are in the race of ordinary if we just sit back and give up. We have to empower these combinations in our fortune, to achieve what is extraordinary, which makes us exemplary individuals, that help themselves and in addition help their families, society, help someone in need who looks unto you.

“We have seen the sunrise, but to feel the warmth of it we have to wake up every day.”

And every one of us should strive to be more than what we can be, I do so, so should you. And let My Numerology help you and prepare you for this serene but extraordinary life.

The Success road ahead.

There is a Buddhist saying, “You yourself must strive; the Buddha’s just point the way.”

There are no criteria to evaluate what the results of the remedies are; I just believe in helping who believe in the power of universe. If you believe in yourself and the universe let me just show you a direction, you yourself will lead on the right path and achieve the results within no desired time. I have received tremendous positive feedbacks to have faith in the universe myself.

“I am not god; I just understand my field of work and use it to help people, guide them and provide them with some efficient ways to be happy, peaceful, ever-glorious and a good part of our society & I continue to achieve results with all my clients."-Sandhiya Mehhta.

NOTE: We really appreciate your interest in this article and look further to hear from you. Please let someone else read this article after you and kindly do not tear of the page. You can take a note of the contact details and feel free to communicate.

Follow us for daily predictions:

Sandhiya.Mehhta

@SandhiyaMehta

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HOT PICKS Splurge on these lifestyle essentials NATURE’S BOUNTY

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STEP OUT IN STYLE

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The bright summery colours like Iconic ice blue, Innellan Camel, Parazoa beige catch the imagination of anyone who wants to look dapper all day and all night.

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TRAVEL LIGHT

Shingora has brought forth a vast range of fashionable scarves and stoles for summer. Each piece adds colour and oomph to one's attire. Compilation of three exquisite themes of bright pastels, bold and dramatic folk prints and sophisticated neutral earthy tones, has made this collection a travel staple accessory.

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INSIDE SPICEJET

ADDITIONAL FLIGHTS FROM DELHI TO AMRITSAR, BENGALURU, DHARAMSHALA & DEHRADUN

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piceJet recently announced additional flights connecting Delhi to Amritsar, Bengaluru, and Dharamshala for the peak summer period, and to Dehradun until October 24. The Amritsar, Dehradun and Dharamshala flights will be operated

by SpiceJet’s Bombardier Q400 aircraft, and the Bengaluru flight by Boeing 737s.

With these new flights, frequency of service for the summer will increase from 7 to 13 flights weekly to Dharamshala, from 7 to 14 flights weekly to Amritsar, from 14 to 20 flights weekly to Dehradun, and from 21 to 25 flights weekly to Bengaluru from Delhi.

The additional flight from Dharamshala to Delhi was flagged off by Anurag Singh Thakur, Member of Parliament, on May 15 at Kangra Airport. While addressing the media at Kangra Airport, Captain Sandeep Varma, Sr. VP and Head of Flight Operations, SpiceJet, said, “These flights also demonstrate the commitment of SpiceJet for nonmetro destinations; which we are

June 2015 | www.spiceroutemag.com

uniquely positioned to do amongst low-cost airlines, due to the flexibility provided by the Q400 aircraft in our fleet.”

“The addition of these flights will help meet the increased demand for these popular destinations, especially

in peak season,” said Shilpa Bhatia, SVP and Head of Sales, SpiceJet. “These flights also demonstrate the commitment SpiceJet has to serving non-metro cities, which we are uniquely positioned to do amongst low-cost airlines due to the flexibility provided by the Q400 aircraft in our fleet,” she added.

“SpiceJet is maximising aircraft utilisation as part of its turnaround strategy, and with these new flight additions, we will be flying our Boeing aircraft at an average of 14 block hours, and the Q400 aircraft at an average of 12 block hours, a day. We believe these are amongst the most efficient aircraft utilisation for either aircraft type anywhere in the world,” said Sanjiv Kapoor, Chief Operating Officer, SpiceJet. “Higher aircraft utilisation allows us to reduce our unit costs while adding incremental revenue, and such utilisation levels are indicative of a very high degree of operational efficiency,” he concluded.

SPICEJET TO HIRE 100 PILOTS, 200 CABIN CREW

I

n May, SpiceJet announced that the airline has begun the process of hiring more pilots and cabin crew.

"We will hire about 100 pilots, 50 commanders and as many co-pilots.

We will also hire 200-odd cabin crew and flight engineers," said Kiran Koteshwar, HR head, SpiceJet. "We are going to have 27 Boeings by the start of the October-December peak travel period, and the airline has begun preparations for fleet expansion by hiring people," said an official.

As Ajay Singh, founder of the airline, is back with SpiceJet, people who had quit are now making a beeline to return. Singh had made it clear that he would give first opportunity of joining to those, who had either quit or had been laid off during the airline's difficult days.

SPICEJET REVAMPS SPICEMAX PRODUCT

S

piceJet recently revamped the SpiceMAX product, and with the purchase of every SpiceMAX seat, the flier will get a bundle of various new offerings.

The product now includes the benefits of Priority check-in, the most legroom economy class seats in the world (up to 6 inches more legroom than standard economy class seats, and more legroom than premium economy seats on some other airlines), a complimentary meal and beverage and Priority baggage delivery.

The first 5 rows of SpiceJet’s Boeing aircraft, and the front row on the Bombardier Q400 aircraft, are especially configured to offer SpiceMAX seats. The second exit row on Boeing aircraft will also, henceforth, be designated as SpiceMAX seats.

Enjoy the benefits of SpiceMAX for a minimum add-on fee per sector (depending on aircraft and

flight length), and can be purchased by selecting a SpiceMAX seat on the seat map at the time of booking, or after booking using the ‘Manage My Booking’ option, or during web or airport check-in

(based on availability). With this game-changing product, SpiceJet becomes the only budget airline in India to actually offer greater legroom, personal space, and added comfort.

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STORY BEHIND OUR TAGLINE 124

One of SpiceJet’s most catchy brand campaigns so far, ‘With all our heart’ has been instrumental in reaching out to its passengers and capturing the spirit of the airline.

A

powerful and passionate tagline, this campaign elucidates the essence of the airline, its warmth and hospitable services. Launched in May 2014, it helped to build the human side of an airline business.

The campaign along with the tagline was seen everywhere, on billboards, websites, magazines, newspapers, and later, even on an aircraft.

SCULPTING A BRAND

A brand campaign must showcase what the company stands for, and the ‘With all our heart’ campaign has carried this forward beautifully.

For each and every staff member and employee, this is not just a line or a mere sentence. It is the promise they uphold while working in every situation, the uniform they don and and a belief June 2015 | www.spiceroutemag.com

they live up to proudly. Thus, by repositioning the brand further, SpiceJet achieves its aim of becoming a people’s airline and a carrier of choice.

that of the tagline ‘With all our heart’, for it has been ‘designed’ specially by Sonal Agrawal, Managing Partner, Accord Group of India.

UNIQUE SCRIPT

FACES OF SPICEJET

If you check the many fonts available today, none will resemble

In another unique initiative, the campaign features the airline’s

I have known Sanjiv Kapoor, COO, SpiceJet, since our school days in Kolkata.

My handwriting must have made quite an impression even way back then, for I used to write all the certificates for our school competitions, clubs, and so on. He called me one day and asked me to send in a sample of my handwriting with the words ‘With all our heart’. I used a whiteboard marker on the back of some recycled paper and had it scanned over to him. It was selected by the ad agency, and a few weeks later... it was everywhere!

SONAL AGRAWAL, Managing Partner, Accord Group of India

Here are a few of the many SpiceJet staff who have been featured in this campaign, sharing their dreams, hopes and memories that are inextricably linked with the airline.

Hailing from Varanasi, Priya has made SpiceJet her second home, and being a ‘face’ of the airline makes her feel on top of the world. “I have been here for two and a half years, and I can proudly say that I am a Spicejetter. I still remember my first international trip to Dubai with the airline.” Priya has done her BTech from Meerut and loves to sing, dance and play volleyball. She adds, “When the airline talks about warmth, we actually mean it. This warmth is not only for passengers, but for everyone within the company and beyond it.” For Priya, the ‘With all our heart’ campaign holds a bigger meaning. “And a smile on our passengers’ face shows that we have truly lived up to the statement.

“SpiceJet is known for its realistic and transparent work culture, and is proven by the fact that the actual staff are faces of the airline. When I see my images on billboards and advertisements, I am elated.”

Having completed 7.5 years with SpiceJet, there are many memories that she holds dear, including the opportunity of flying into European territory when the airline operated wet lease in the Czech Republic. The girl from Jalandhar is loving every moment with the organisation, as she also gets to pursue her love for travelling.

SANDHYA BAHL, Cabin Crew In-charge, Delhi

“I am lucky to have been given the chance to represent my company, and my parents feel proud of me every time they see hoardings and advertisements with my image.” SpiceJet means a lot to Manpreet as it has helped her grow professionally and personally. “I’m now easy going, patient, a good listener and more importantly, can handle any situation well.”

An adventure junkie from Amritsar, Manpreet pursued higher studies in Delhi and loves to indulge in skiing, paragliding, trekking, rafting and road trips. The airline has brought her many joyous memories, and she fondly remembers the experience of shooting for the Diwali cover of SpiceJet’s in-flight magazine.

MANPREET BUMRAH, Cabin Crew, Delhi

PRIYA SINGH, Cabin Crew, Hyderabad

“Being chosen as a ‘face’ of SpiceJet has been the result of my hard work and dedication. This is indeed an honour for me,” says Pavandeep.

“From a crew to a cabin crew incharge to CPO, SpiceJet has given me a lot. After attaining a commercial pilot license, now I’m eyeing to become a pilot, and I fervently hope to turn my passion into my profession.” Having been with the airline for seven years, Pavandeep’s journey has been skyrocketing so far. According to him, the most beautiful things in the world can’t be seen or touched, but must be felt with the heart; thus, the tagline holds true for him.

PAVANDEEP BHASIN, Crew Performance Officer, Mumbai

“I feel proud and honoured to represent SpiceJet. SpiceJet was my first step in aviation industry, my first job, and the organisation acknowledged my potential and helped me to climb the ladder of success.”

Born and brought up in Mumbai, Aarti completed her schooling from Oxford Public School, and has a vivid interest in dancing and playing badminton.

Working with Spicejet has helped her hone her soft skills.

AARTI KARACHIWALA Cabin Crew, Mumbai

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INSIDE SPICEJET

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When the airline talks about warmth, we actually mean it. This warmth is not only for passengers, but for everyone within the company and beyond it actual staff, be it cabin crew, pilots, engineers, etc., instead of professional models or celebrities as brand ambassadors. The employees are the true brand ambassadors for the airline, giving them a greater sense of ownership. The choice of

employee depends mainly on how well he/she has performed at work.

Taking this initiative to greater heights, in July 2014, SpiceJet launched a Boeing 737, the iconic Red Chilli, that features the images of captains and cabin crew along with the tagline.

MUSIC ON BOARD

SpiceJet flights play soft rock music for boarding & take-off, and again for landing & disembarkation. Here's our track list...

STEELY DAN Do It Again

This 1972 track was the breakout hit from Steely Dan’s first album.

The lyrics are sung to a man who is addicted to nightlife and gambling.

The narrator describes the realities of the man's addictions and the consequences of his actions, but emphasises that he goes 'back, Jack, do it again', implying that it is an addiction.

FOREIGNER I Have Waited So Long The second studio album

by Foreigner, Double Vision was released in 1978. The album was mixed by Mick Jones and Jimmy Douglas.

THE PETER MALICK GROUP Heart of Mine (feat. Norah Jones) “Don’t let her know that you love her, don’t be a fool.” A Bob Dylan composition from his album Shot of Love, and re-recorded by The Peter Malick Group in 2000 featuring Norah Jones.

SpiceJet COO Sanjiv Kapoor notes, “I first heard this track playing on the radio in my W Hotel room overlooking San Francisco Bay one evening in 2005, and was immediately drawn to it and hooked... Norah Jones at her raw finest, a must for any fan!”

EAGLES I Can't Tell You Why

This song from The Long Run was the first to feature Timothy B. Schmit on lead vocals.

Live versions of the song was released in the 1980 album Eagles Live and 1994’s Hell Freezes Over.

STEELY DAN Third World Man An atmospheric track that talks to the 'Dirty War' in Argentina in the mid-1970s, it is from the 1980 album Gaucho.

The album proved to be Steely Dan's final studio album before a 12-year hiatus.

CHRIS ISAAK Wicked Game Album: Heart Shaped World BEE GEES Too Much Heaven

TAVARES More Than A Woman From Saturday Night Fever, this song was written by the Bee Gees and also performed by them on the same album. This is a funkier version of the track.

CROSBY, STILLS, AND NASH Just A Song Before I Go

EAGLES Witchy Woman While the inspiration for the title and lyrics was based on various women, The Eagles had met, Don Henley had Zelda Fitzgerald particularly in mind when writing this song. The muse and sometimes genius behind her well-published author husband F. Scott Fitzgerald, Zelda was known as mesmerising.

FOREIGNER I Want To Know What Love Is

This folk rock song, released in 1977, ended up being the band’s highest climbing hit.

It is a straight ballad with mostly acoustic textures. Chateau Beach and Russ Kunkel redid the gig in 2008 in their album Rivage.

PINK FLOYD Wish You Were Here (feat. Stéphane Grappelli) Rare version of the famous track featuring renowned French violinist Stéphane Grappelli.

A 1984 power ballad sung

by British-American rock band, Foreigner, it is said to be their biggest hit till date. It has been re-sung by Tina Arena in 1998, Wynonna Judd in 2004 and Mariah Carey in 2009.

THE BEATLES Don't Let Me Down A song by the Beatles, recorded in 1969, it was written by John Lennon and credited to Lennon– McCartney. It has been said that the song was one of the first examples of the raw soul-baring where Lennon revealed his feelings and fears.

PINK FLOYD It's What We Do This instrumental piece, written by Gilmour and Wright, is from the latest album of Pink Floyd, The Endless River, released in 2014. The song reflects the band’s well preserved psychedelic and progressive feel since the 70s.

One of the haunting instrumental tracks from Pink Floyd’s latest album, The Endless River. Classic Floyd came back with this album!

YVONNE ELLIMAN If I Can't Have You Another favourite track from Saturday Night Fever, also written by the Bee Gees.

A classic, lilting ballad from the hey days of the Bee Gees.

Soft rock classic from the 70’s superhit band, America.

This 1967 song was intended as an antidote for the increasingly racially and politically charged climate of everyday life in the US. The song also has a hopeful tone with regard to the future. This is the most iconic Louis Armstrong song.

PINK FLOYD Anisina

AMERICA Sandman

CHRIS ISAAK Can't Do a Thing (To Stop Me) [Remastered Version] This 1993 song remains a favourite among Chris Isaak fans.

LOUIS ARMSTRONG What A Wonderful World

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TRAVEL WITH EASE & CONVENIENCE Devised to meet the needs of fliers, SpiceJet introduces a host of products & services to give its passengers more choices to tailor their travel experiences than ever before.

June 2015 | www.spiceroutemag.com

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et’s face it. No one likes to stand in abysmally long queues at the airport, wait endlessly among a sea of customers at the baggage carousel or sit constricted while balancing the meal tray and personal belongings at the seat, or struggling with one's luggage.

Offering customers various options to make their journey a smoother one, SpiceJet has introduced a host of new ancillary products designed exclusively to enhance the customer choice and comfort level. From offering one-of-a-kind innovative products to making available the best services in the industry, SpiceJet is impacting every passenger and potential flier.

SIT BACK & RELAX

Passengers can opt for more convenience with extra legroom and greater personal space to work or relax with SpiceJet’s innovative product, SpiceMAX. The first 5 rows of SpiceJet’s Boeing aircraft, and the front row on the Bombardier Q400 aircraft, are especially configured to offer SpiceMAX seats. The second exit row on Boeing aircraft will also, henceforth, be designated as SpiceMAX seats. Fliers can reap this benefit at a modest sum and completely change their travel experience with SpiceMAX, an industry-leading product. This game-

changing offering now includes a complimentary meal, beverage and priority baggage delivery.

Selecting a SpiceMAX seat is easy, as it can be done at the time of booking on www.spicejet.com.

After the tickets have been booked, one can select a SpiceMAX seat by using the ‘Manage my booking’ option (applicable for booking even through travel agents); during online check-in and during check-in at the airport.

SKIP THOSE LONG QUEUES

Customers can now jump to the fast lane with the airline's ancillary product, Priority Check-in, that guarantees a comfortable journey sans those exhausting queues. By offering this service, the airline guarantees its customers an experience that is hassle-free, while providing a pleasant check-

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in. Passengers who opt for this service can avoid relentless queues. A pre-paid service, Priority Check-In, can be purchased at a minimal fare for domestic network of the airline.

Those who opt for Priority Check-in can walk up to floorwalkers at the airport for guidance.

The staff will help customers with the check-in bags too. Alternatively, passengers can directly approach the special Priority Check-in counters, and seek assistance accordingly. SpiceJet’s support staff will be present at all points to make the check-in process seamless and efficient.

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NOW, WAIT NO MORE

How many abhor the endless wait at the baggage carousel, slow ticking minutes while keeping the eyes peeled for your bag? Now, SpiceJet’s customers can maximise their flying experience with the new Bag-out-first service.

Fliers can give their bags the supreme attention by opting for this service, that ensures their baggage will be tagged with priority baggage tags upon check-in. With this, the bag will be the first out on the baggage carousel, minimising the time spent here, and allowing a smooth exit from the airport. Travel with ease and convenience, by selecting this service at a nominal cost per bag.

AN AIRLINE THAT CARES

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AT YOUR SERVICE

Offering a warm environment to its passengers, SpiceJet introduced Spice Assist. This unique service provides assistance to fliers, supported by the airline’s well-trained staff at various airports. Pegged at a special introductory fee per passenger per sector, the airport staff of the airline will assist the customers throughout their journey, right from the check-in counter to the boarding gate and arrival at the next destination.

SpiceJet understands how delayed or cancelled flights or loss of baggage can be difficult for passengers and affect their travel plans. To help such passengers in need, the airline launched a new service, Spice Assurance, that compensates baggage loss, flight delays & cancellations. The airline promises to take care of any such worries with the help of this exclusive and one-of-akind service.

So go ahead and book a flight with SpiceJet, and opt for some of the most rewarding and efficiently structured products & services available in Indian skies today, created specifically in keeping with passengers’ needs and convenience.

COO SAYS...

Our new products are a combination of unbundling of certain services so that customers only pay for the services they use, thus reducing the cost of travel for those for whom those services are not a 'must have', and the introduction of new value-added services for those who do not mind paying little extra for more comfort and convenience. The prices for these services, similar to airfares, are lower in India than anywhere else in the world.

Sanjiv Kapoor, COO, SpiceJet

June 2015 | www.spiceroutemag.com

INSIDE SPICEJET

(L-R) A E Rechenmacher, Airline Support Engineer (Boeing); Nick N Shah, Airline Support Engineer (Boeing); Stanley Grzech, Dy. Fleet Chief - 737NG (Boeing); Amarpreet Singh, Field Service Representative (Boeing); Arun Kashyap, Head of Engineering & Maintenance; and Siddhartha Ghosh, Manager - Technical Services

BOEING LAUDS SPICEJET

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SpiceJet has recently been recognised by Boeing, for helping the team in devising a troubleshooting procedure for a critical system which would help all operators of B737 aircraft in fault diagnosis and enhance airworthiness and safety of the aircraft. A certificate of appreciation was presented by Boeing to the SpiceJet engineering team in order to acknowledge their efforts.

Stanley Grzech with Siddhartha Ghosh

Stanley Grzech with Arun Kashyap

June 2015 | www.spiceroutemag.com

Praveen Sharma, Manager - Line Maintenance with Stanley Grzech

Prasanna Kumar, Senior Manager - TSD with Stanley Grzech

R L Pandey, Retired - Manager Defect Cell with Stanley Grzech

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The Engineering department of SpiceJet at the event

ON THE OCCASION, BOEING SPOKESPERSON SAID, “WE WOULD LIKE TO THANK SPICEJET FOR PARTNERING WITH US IN OUR EFFORT TO IDENTIFY OUTLIER CAUSING THE NGS SYSTEM DEGRADATION ON ONE OF YOUR 737NG AIRCRAFT.

BY APPLYING YOUR TIME, EFFORT AND EXPERTISE, IT WAS DETERMINED THAT THE LH RAM AIR ACTUATOR WAS ONE OF THE CAUSES OF THE DEGRADATION.”

Stanley Grzech with Rajiv Kumar, Sr. Technical Services Engineer - Airframe

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SPREADING HOPE & JOY 134

SpiceJet Cares is an initiative of the airline to contribute to society at large. Know more about the airline's humanitarian approach...

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orking in close harmony and partnering with various organisations who have done phenomenal work in this field, the airline reaches out to provide help and relief to the lesser privileged and to those in need.

June 2015 | www.spiceroutemag.com

Be it promoting a cleaner India campaign (from before it became fashionable to do so) or bringing smiles to the faces of underprivileged children, the airline does everything with its heart.

GIVING WINGS TO DREAMS

Since 2013, SpiceJet has operated special flights, packed with fun activities, for differently-abled and

underprivileged children. The memories of their first flight are etched in the minds and echoed in the smiles of the children. The

UNITED FOR NEPAL Aarogya Seva is an international, humanitarian volunteer organisation that is dedicated to provide quality healthcare services to communities worldwide.

They were one of the first medical teams in Nepal reaching out to some of the most remote villages not touched by any relief.

Based on their core values and expertise of providing efficient and structured disaster relief response, Aarogya Seva sent 10 teams with 30 doctors and 50 non-medical volunteers. They are working in partnership with local and international NGOs and hospitals including the Patan Hospital, BIR UT Teaching Hospital, and also reaching out to peripheries. Their doctors have treated more than 5,000 patients and carried out 100 surgeries.

They have distributed some 10,000 menstrual hygiene kits, safe new born kits and safe delivery kits, tents and water purifying tablets.

Dr Dayaprasad G Kulkarni says, “It is important that the medical facilities are made available immediately to contain the spread of any epidemic, but Nepal also needs long term medical assistance. People have lost family and friends, suffered severe injuries, that will take time to heal.

Given the scale of the disaster, it is imperative that a long-term action is put in place.”

Read more at www.aarogyaseva. org or write to drdaya@ aarogyaseva.org.

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greatest joy we had were flying 20 special children from Chennai to Madurai in Feb 2014 and 24 underprivileged kids from the Navjyoti India and India Visions foundations of Delhi on Holi 2015 to Goa for a day at the beach.

RELIEF AFTER NATURAL CALAMITIES

In September 2014, the state of Jammu & Kashmir was ravaged by deadly floods. Volunteer employees of the airline were flown in to assist rescue operations, food and water were flown in and distributed to the thronging masses at Srinagar airport, irrespective of the airline that they were flying in.

Commuters in need were extended all possible help at Srinagar airport and the airline assisted several NGOs in airlifting medicines and

supplies for free. Post the April 2015 devastation vide the earthquake in Nepal, additional flights were operated between Kathmandu and Delhi, apart from those already scheduled. This helped in evacuation of huge number of people of various nationalities who were stranded without even basic amenities.

A GREENER & CLEANER EARTH

In association with Garbage Free India (GFI), a Kolkata-based citizen’s collective that seeks to raise awareness about garbage management, SpiceJet ensures cleanliness at its workplace across all airports and has adopted the neighbouring parks in Gurgaon, near its head office, keeping them meticulously maintained. Following

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the philosophy of SOCCH (Safe, On Time, Clean, Courteous and Hassle free), SpiceJet works towards a cleaner, greener and healthier India.

OUR NEPAL DIARY

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In a race against time, SpiceJet led relief efforts in devastated Nepal to help and contribute proactively in every possible manner. Taking a cue from the learnings of Srinagar flood relief efforts in 2014, SpiceJet assisted the authorities in the evacuation operation from Kathmandu airport.

Operating two scheduled and additional Delhi-KathmanduDelhi flights, the airline evacuated over 1,100 persons of various nationalities stranded without basic amenities. The flights carried tons of relief material, medicines as well as select media personnel and teams of NGOs, many of whom, for free. It also carried a team of 60 rescue workers from Germany along with five specially-trained rescue dogs. On the request of His Excellency Ambassador of Spain in India, the airline evacuated 50 Spanish nationals from Kathmandu overnight.

On a humanitarian basis, SpiceJet capped fares from Kathmandu to Delhi, and had empowered its team at Kathmandu airport to take passengers who were unable to pay. SpiceJet also waived all change and cancellation fees till April 30. The airline put a process in place where they accommodated stranded passengers on a first-

ed out In view of the relief efforts carri to SpiceJet management

The airline carried tons of relief materials & relief personnel to Nepal

The captains who volunteered to operate the Delhi-Kathmandu flights are: 1. Capt Malaya Madhukar 2. Capt Arjun Chopra 3. Capt Ashutosh Chopra 4. Capt Pankaj Saxena

June 2015 | www.spiceroutemag.com

eciation dor to India sends a letter of appr

by SpiceJet, the Nepal Ambassa

5. Capt Nikhil Bhutani 6. Capt Harsh Parekh 7. Capt Kriti Mata 8. FO Vidhi Chauhan

come, first-serve basis, even if they did not have an existing booking with SpiceJet. In addition, the airline created a special email ID wherein accredited NGOs and relief organisations could contact for free carriage of relief material, doctors, rescue personnel and medicines. Even after resuming regular flights, the airline continued supporting relief agencies with the transportation of emergency material to Kathmandu from Delhi.

And despite difficulties presented due to aftershocks, weather issues and delays, all flights were operated successfully.

NEW 360O

GROUP BOOKING TOOL Experience the joy of travelling in a group with SpiceJet’s new group booking tool that offers end-to-end solutions.

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piceJet is the first airline in India to introduce an online tool that provides an automated end-to-end solution for group travellers. Individuals and corporates who wish to travel in groups, and even travel agents who deal in group bookings, can register with SpiceJet’s Group Traveller. From requesting for quotes to managing dashboards, it is a DIY (do-ityourself) tool from SpiceJet. The experience of travelling in a group is one-of-a-kind, and it is true when they say - the more, the merrier.

FOR EASY BOOKING, FOLLOW THE STEPS BELOW:

1. Registration process: Once you enter your agency details, submit the form. An email is sent to the registered email id for validation.

Once this is done, the airline staff will get in touch regarding further verification. Post this, the email logins will be provided.

2. Adhoc group request: Enter the various details of your trip, such as one-way, round trip or multi-city, details of departure, baggage and meal preference, and select your flight. Mention the number of passengers.

The airline will revert regarding various flight possibilities, and you can click on them for more details.

3. Update names: Once you reach the payment confirmation page, click on the ‘submit passenger’ button. Select the request for which you would like to make the payment. Once you have reviewed your option, upload passenger information, or add them manually.

4. Print e-ticket: Click on ‘Get Booking’ menu and choose the specific request for which you want an e-ticket. Click on print.

You can even resize the group by clicking on the ‘Request’ button and ‘Request Group Resize’ submenu. Once all the details are added, the airline will get in touch.

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BENEFITS:

Get prompt response to all your group queries.

End to End automation: From requesting for quotes to entering passengers' names, you can now do everything by yourself.

Dashboard: View and manage all your group bookings.

Easy usage (Short & Crisp booking flow) Accepts all forms of payment – CC/DC/IB.

From requesting for quotes to managing dashboards, it is a do-ityourself tool giving you the freedom to book according to your convenience.

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BOOKING NOW EASY

FOR SME TRAVELLERS SpiceJet offers innovative travel solutions for the 'SME Traveller’. Read on for a step-by-step insight into the process.

STEP BY STEP GUIDE TO BOOKING SME TOOL: STEP 1

STEP 3 You are ready to book on SME Traveller. Login with your account information with the Login ID and password, and take advantage of the benefits under this programme.

SMEs who wish to register with SpiceJet must first log on to spiceJet.com, click on SME Traveller and register.

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STEP 2 On completing the registration formalities, an email with login ID and password will be sent to the registered email id. With these, registered SMEs can start booking tickets through SME Traveller. SMEs can either nominate and pre-register employees by uploading employee profiles or get them registered as a part of the booking process.

PROGRAMME BENEFITS • • • •

Up to 10% discount for SMEs Complimentary web check-in Flexibility in rescheduling and cancellations The points to be redeemed will get converted into usable cash post travel.

These points can then be used for the next travel for the same pax and be adjusted against the base fare only.

SpiceJet offers its new 'SME Traveller' solution to firms with up-to 50 travelling passenger strength

June 2015 | www.spiceroutemag.com

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ST

RS OF

AI RP O RT S E RV I C E S VINEET KUMAR

SHAIK MOHAMMED AMODI

Customer feedback: I truly appreciate the service rendered by SpiceJet staff, Vineet, whom I met at Hyderabad arrivals. Vineet is a true Spicejetter and very courteous, professional and helpful in nature.

God bless him.

Customer feedback: I recently travelled from Tirupati to Hyderabad and on arrival, I realised that I had lost my wallet. I was surprised when I got a call from SpiceJet representative, Amodi, informing me that they had located my wallet on the aircraft and handed the same to me immediately, intact.

I heartily thank you SpiceJet and your staff for the quick response and sincerity shown.

Hyderabad Base

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Hyderabad Base

Experience with SpiceJet: I can’t believe I have completed five years with SpiceJet. In these years, I've seen many different situations but I never gave up and kept moving on. I am thankful to each and every individual who has directly or indirectly helped me throughout my journey with this awesome airline till date. Thank you SpiceJet, with all my heart.

Experience with SpiceJet: I have been working with SpiceJet since the last 3 years and 8 months. I feel very proud to be a part of this organisation. I am very thankful to SpiceJet for giving me this wonderful opportunity of growing in this industry and believing in me.

S MAHESH Chennai Base

Customer feedback: I recently travelled to Hyderabad with SpiceJet from Chennai. On the day of my travel, when I was at the check-in counter, I was told that there was some issue with my booking. I was then referred to Mahesh.

He remarkably sorted my issue and was extremely polite. I was travelling to Hyderabad to partake in a very important family event, and because of Mahesh, I could attend it. God bless Mahesh.

Internal feedback: S Mahesh joined SpiceJet in 2007 as a Customer Service Executive and has grown through the years due to his hard work and passion for the job as a well-groomed professional. He is currently serving as the Duty Officer - APS at Chennai. He has also been the Airport In-Charge of Puducherry for a year. He is a good team player and sociable person. He carries a decade of experience of working at the airport.

Experience with SpiceJet: My experience with SpiceJet since the first day has been exciting, and I have faced every situation ‘with all my heart’. It's been a privilege and an honour to be serving SpiceJet. I'm ever grateful to the management and my seniors for guiding me. Being elevated as a Station-In-Charge for Puducherry was a great opportunity to showcase my skills and groom myself in leading a wonderful team. Thanks to SpiceJet, I am motivated to set a benchmark in delivering excellent customer service.

June 2015 | www.spiceroutemag.com

SPICEJET AMIT SHARMA

PALWINDER KAUR

Internal feedback: Amit is a very hardworking staff member and good team player. We are happy to have him with us.

Experience with SpiceJet: I have really loved my span of three years with SpiceJet. The professional and growthoriented environment of SpiceJet has really helped me in developing my skills.

This is the best organisation to work with if somebody really wants to grow in life and develop his/her abilities.

I would continue to work for SpiceJet and excel in life.

Dharamshala Base

Amritsar Base

Experience with SpiceJet: I am associated with SpiceJet since 2013, and the last two years have been amazing.

I have enjoyed each day here, working under the guidance of my seniors.

The work environment here is brilliant and my colleagues at the airport have become my family. I am grateful for the opportunity to be a ‘Spicejetter’.

RAKESH PRASAD Varanasi Base

Experience with SpiceJet: It’s an amazing feeling to be a star of the month. I am grateful to SpiceJet for having provided me with the perfect platform to grow my career and enhance my skills along with my personality. It has helped me to prove myself in the service industry.

MANASH JYOTI MEDHI Guwahati Base

Internal feedback: Manash Jyoti Medhi is an action-oriented member of the airline. His service shows a high level of dedication and sincerity while performing his many responsibilities. We are very proud to have him as a part of the SpiceJet family.

SANJAY UJAINWAL (PBO)

has been recognised and awarded as ‘Safety Champion’ for reporting hazards at airside (removing and safely disposing FODs). He has been facilitated with Safety Champion jacket and appreciation certificate.

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June 2015 | www.spiceroutemag.com