THE INFLIGHT MAGAZINE
Volume IX | Issue XI | November 2015
72 86 100
DIWALI TREATS Indian sweets are getting a quirky makeover
AURA OF GOODNESS Revamp your house the Feng Shui way
A SOULFUL CITY Rediscover Kolkata this festive season
www.spiceroutemag.com
M AL DI VE S
Destinations.com
THE INFLIGHT MAGAZINE
Volume IX | Issue XI | November 2015
72 86 100
DIWALI TREATS Indian sweets are getting a quirky makeover
AURA OF GOODNESS Revamp your house the Feng Shui way
A SOULFUL CITY Rediscover Kolkata this festive season
www.spiceroutemag.com
BA NG KO K
Destinations.com
THE INFLIGHT MAGAZINE
Volume IX | Issue XI | November 2015
72 86 100
DIWALI TREATS Indian sweets are getting a quirky makeover
AURA OF GOODNESS Revamp your house the Feng Shui way
A SOULFUL CITY Rediscover Kolkata this festive season
www.spiceroutemag.com
DU BA I
Destinations.com
THE INFLIGHT MAGAZINE
Volume IX | Issue XI | November 2015
72 86 100
DIWALI TREATS Indian sweets are getting a quirky makeover
AURA OF GOODNESS Revamp your house the Feng Shui way
A SOULFUL CITY Rediscover Kolkata this festive season
www.spiceroutemag.com
GOA
Destinations.com
FROM THE
CMD’S DESK
Dear Readers, Diwali, the brightest festival of India, signifies the victory of light over darkness. This year’s Diwali indeed marks new victories for SpiceJet. It sees us overcoming all odds and travails, and flying higher than ever before. This was a big year for us – we posted strong results, and launched some fantastic new products and services. We also took the industry by surprise by delivering outstandingly on operational metrics such as On Time Performance (OTP) and Passenger Load Factors (PLF), among others. SpiceJet once again achieved the highest PLF figure of 93% for the month of September, thus achieving the highest occupancy amongst all airlines in India for 6 months in a row. Regaining consumer confidence was amongst our top priorities while planning a revival of the airline. These record occupancy numbers reflect that you, our customers, are flying with us more than ever before. I am also pleased that as promised in my letter last month, SpiceJet improved its On Time Performance and, for the month of September, 85% of our flights across the network flew on time. In addition to this, the number of flights cancelled came down to less than 0.1%. As we grow stronger, we want to fly more. This month alone, SpiceJet will induct 6 new aircraft, a growth unprecedented in the Indian aviation space. We have unveiled an all-new winter schedule offering 291 daily flights, 10 new
sectors, 30 increased frequencies and 22 via connections. From November, we will be introducing new flights in the Kozhikode-Dubai, Amritsar-Dubai and Delhi-Kochi sectors. We have also added frequencies to cater to the increased demand between Delhi-Chennai, Delhi-Udaipur, Delhi-Bengaluru, DelhiAhmedabad, Chennai-Coimbatore and Hyderabad-Kochi. Additionally, we have recently introduced our first red-eye flights within the domestic network on the Delhi-Bengaluru, Delhi-Pune and Kolkata-Hyderabad routes, all commencing operations in early November, 2015. With such a large network expansion, SpiceJet is all geared up to fly you anywhere in India ensuring that you are home this Diwali!
To add a little more Spice to your Diwali celebrations, SpiceJet announced an exciting festive offer with fares starting as low as `749/- (base fare, excluding taxes) for travel next year. More than 3,00,000 seats were made available. As I write this, more than 2,50,000 of these have already been sold. One last bit of news: SpiceJet has been awarded for being the Best Airline in the ‘West India Travel Awards 2015’. We are very proud of this. Once again, my best wishes to each and every one of you and your loved ones for the festivities. Jai Hind!
Ajay Singh Chairman & Managing Director
3
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UPDATE Hot dates Travel buzz
28 32
48 hours in Kolkata
50
Bir Billing
58
A soulful city
CONTENTS
32 18
SpiceJet employees showcase SpiceDestinations.com
November 2015 | www.spiceroutemag.com
TETE-A-TETE
EXPLORE
Javed Akhtar
62
100
50
62
100 Cover Photographs: Rahul Dutta Hair & Makeup: Ishika Taneja Styled by: Neha Oberoi Men’s Wardrobe by: Being Human; Nautica; Blackberrys Women’s Wardrobe by: Zara; Trendy Divva Accessories by: Clarks; Crocs; Saint G; Ayesha Accessories Scuba gear by: Speedo
CONCERN
INDULGE Oregano Quirky Diwali sweets The mystical yogi My favourite corner Purify your home Wedding fashion
68 72 78 80 86 92
Empowering women
POTPOURRI 112
112
Book launch Spotlight Launchpad
136
104
72
20
COVER STORY Plan big with SpiceDestinations.com 36
36
INSIDE SPICEJET Socia media SpiceJet products Behind the scenes Music North east festival Mobile app News Stars of SpiceJet We love SpiceJet SpiceJet add-ons SpiceJet fleet
November 2015 | www.spiceroutemag.com
122 124 128 136
Prediction
22 24 46 116 118 126 138 142 144 148 150
INSIDE SPICEJET
FlySpiceJet Thank you for giving me the best journey in July this year, from Mumbai to Kolkata. This was my first trip with SpiceJet.
Very good experience from Delhi to Goa with @flyspicejet. Thanks team SpiceJet! @arpitjain1008 Flying my favourite airline, SpiceJet to Delhi. It's a great experience! @rpanazarene
22
Loved the #SpiceMax experience. Row 1, smooth check-in, good food, priority baggage and on-time arrival. Impeccable service SpiceJet! @vibhinta UB City Mall to Bangalore Airport by cab - `805 (1.5 hrs). Bangalore Airport to Pune by SpiceJet `1,020 (1.2 hrs) #CommuteInIndia @roshya
The positives about SG: 1. Low price tickets are always available. 2. New and clean aircraft, with the Boeing 737 seat being very comfortable. Nice aircraft ambience. 3. Friendly and smart crew. 4. Food was awesome. 5. Smooth takeoff and landing. Fly high, live high with Red. Hot. Spicy. Shivang Amin
Hassle-free boarding on SpiceJet. Very helpful and pleasant ticketing executive. Looking forward to an amazing flight. @MohamedKhwaja Amazing first flight experience with #SpiceJet. Before time feels great. #Kolkata_To_Bangalore @rkumar8203 Flew with SpiceJet yesterday. You guys have impressed me. Fantastic crew and special mention to cabin crew Nelson and Sushmitha. @Harshit83596126
SpiceJet's plane came 20 minutes before and my driver, 30 minutes later! Full load! Cheers! :) @thejagjitfan
Flying SpiceJet from Delhi to Kolkata and back. Booked my fantastic hot breakfast in advance. @sudipmaitra
@flyspicejet November 2015 | www.spiceroutemag.com
An amazing flight experience with SpiceJet. #MumbaitoGoa @Aniruddh32 What an awesome service! Feels great to be before time, and the choice of music is mindblowing! #Beatles #SpiceJet @kaustuv123 Flew with SpiceJet from Hyderabad to Tirupati, and before time arrival! Super experience. A very good crew and pleasant flight. :D @UrsSarvesh Second consecutive flight with SpiceJet and both reached before time! Wow! Keep on adding such spice to life! #SpiceJet @Mansinghj The happiness of celebrating birthdays in-flight is unforgettable. This is a great initiative from Team SpiceJet. @murali603 Thank you SpiceJet for helping me at Srinagar airport. you have a wonderful staff and crew. @Drsheikhamina Whoa! Loads of legroom on the SpiceJet flight to Delhi today! Super deal. Thank you! @willismuir
INSIDE SPICEJET
24
EXPERIENCE COMFORT &
CONVENIENCE
Keeping the needs of customers as priority, SpiceJet offers innovative products to make every journey a memorable one.
N
o one likes to stand in abysmally long queues at the airport or do a balancing act while handling luggage and kids. A smooth journey is always on everyone’s wishlist. Thus, offering a hassle-free experience, SpiceJet has launched a host of services and products designed exclusively to enhance customer choice and comfort level.
CARRY MORE ONBOARD
Making air travel even more convenient, SpiceJet launched ‘Carry More Onboard!’, an optional November 2015 | www.spiceroutemag.com
service for travellers with heavier cabin baggage. Passengers who carry cabin baggage heavier than 7 kg, and do not want to check-in, can opt for this. Fliers can carry bags weighing up to 5 kg extra, a maximum of 12 kg onboard, while paying a nominal fee for each kg above 7 kg. This helps passengers to save time and avoid waiting at the baggage carousal on arrival. As the current maximum size dimensions still apply, bags can be heavier, but not larger, and the standard fee baggage allowances remain as before.
Customers can opt for this product during airport check-in and at the airport ticket counters, against a receipt. They can also pre-book and purchase it online. The scheme applies to all domestic flights, as well as international flights originating in India. The product is non-refundable unless the entire booking is cancelled. It can be purchased with any type of fare such as the – SpiceSaver, Hand Baggage Only, SpiceFlex, etc.
HAND BAGGAGE ONLY
A unique airline, SpiceJet offers another unique product -
25 discount for those passengers who carry hand-baggage only. Under the new fare, discount offered for a oneway flight is `200, while for a round trip, the discount is `100 per leg. Available on most direct domestic flights (including via flights), this fare has a minimum 15-day advance purchase period and no free check-in baggage allowance shall be permissible for the bookings made under this fare. Bookings for this can be made on www. spicejet.com, at airport ticket offices, and through selected online travel agent portals.
Passengers should keep in mind that hand-baggage allowance does not change. Those who book these fares, but later decide to check-in luggage, will have to pay more.
HOT MEALS
A delicious meal onboard is like cherry on the cake, allowing fliers to rid themselves of exhaustion and hunger. Passengers are spoiled for choice as they can opt from both an Indian or Continental cuisine. The airline recently introduced an all new menu, SpiceJet Bistro, that offers hot meals, sub sandwiches, meal bundles and special meals for diabetics and those preferring Jain meals. The airline also introduced meal options for Navratras. With the new menu, all breakfast meals are served with an eggless croissant and a butter chiplet, while the meals served rest of the day are accompanied with an eggless dessert, whole wheat roll and butter chiplet.
From Masala Frittata to Paneer Kathi Roll, Grilled Vegetables sandwich to Tex Vegetable sub sandwiches, passengers are spoilt for choice. Fliers can pre-book a complete meal, i.e., choose their meals and drinks. In a new initiative, standalone beverage can also be pre-booked. With the new expanded online menu selection, customers who pre-book their meal will enjoy discounted rates compared to onboard prices and the meal of their choice. In a new initiative, passengers can even wish
INSIDE SPICEJET
26
Pre-book your meals to make your journey with us a more comfortable experience. You can enjoy exceptional discounted rates, with meals starting from `140 to a full fledged meal at `275. The onboard hot meal prices have been reduced from `350 to `300. So pre-booking your meals makes purchasing food & beverage onboard an entirely cashless affair. You can pre-book your meals at the time of booking your flight, or add later through 'Manage My Booking' on the website – www.spicejet.com. Pre-book meals through the SpiceJet mobile app, and you can even get 50% off on meals!
Images are for representation purpose only
BENEFITS OF PRE-BOOKING
their loved ones in mid-air by prebooking a cake on select flights. A meal of your choice from the expanded menu can be pre-booked up to 24 hours of your flight.
SPICEMAX
Offering the ultimate luxury, SpiceJet recently launched the all-new SpiceMax that provides more comfort and convenience to customers. With the extra legroom and greater personal space to work or unwind, passengers can travel with ease. The airline has reconfigured most of its Boeing 737 fleet such that the first five rows offer the bestin-class seat pitch. Apart from the significantly extra legroom onboard, fliers can also enjoy other added ancillary products like priority check-in, complimentary meal and beverage, priority baggage handling and priority boarding (aerobridge gates) at dedicated SpiceMax counters at the airport for a modest add-on fee per sector (depending on aircraft and flight length). The ease with which fliers can opt for this product enhances its
experience even further. SpiceMax seats can be booked by simply selecting this option during the booking process on www.spicejet. com, or anytime after using the ‘Manage My Booking’ option (this is applicable for booking even 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.
SPICEFLEX
The next time you book a flight on SpiceJet, opt for SpiceFlex, a uniquely crafted bundled fare that offers passengers immense benefits such as preferred seat choice at no charge, priority check-in and change fee waiver. Enjoy these benefits at a marginal premium only. Considered an ideal option for frequent travellers and business executives, these fares are valid on all direct, via and onward flights on SpiceJet’s vast network. Customers can book SpiceFlex fares only by logging onto the website, www.spicejet.com and through travel agents.
UPDATE
COVER STORY
EXPLORE
TÊTE-À-TÊTE
INDULGE
CONCERN
POTPOURRI
HOT DATES events
exhibitions
food
dance
SCULPTURE MAKING SHOW A solo show of sculptor Tapas Sarkar will exhibit the sublimating human emotions and thinking. Touching moments of love, intimacy, celebration and worship are the major themes that are recreated through sculptures. Ganesha is another interesting theme reflected through the art of sculpting. When: November 1-30, 2015 Where: Chawla Art Gallery, Saket, New Delhi
28
DHARAMSHALA INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL (DIFF) 2015 Celebrating the best of contemporary independent cinema from India and around the world, DIFF 2015 will feature a variety of films. Japanese documentary maker, Kaoru Ikeya, will present Lung Ta, Maw Naing will showcase his debut feature, The Monk (2014) along with Hoang Diep Nguyen with her startlingly original first film, Flapping in the Middle of Nowhere (2014). When: November 5-8, 2015 Where: McLeodganj, Himachal Pradesh November 2015 | www.spiceroutemag.com
DUBAI MOTOR FESTIVAL 2015 Held under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Hamdan Bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, the festival offers unique and engaging motoring experiences. The festival forms part of the Emirate's strategy to use festivals and events as a means to drive tourism growth in line with Dubai's Tourism Vision 2020. When: November 10-21, 2015 Where: Dubai
UPDATE
COVER STORY
EXPLORE
TÊTE-À-TÊTE
INDULGE
CONCERN
POTPOURRI
6TH EDITION OF THE DESERT DASH The luxury self-drive expedition from Jaipur to Jodhpur is targeted towards corporate executives and business owners who are passionate about driving, and are owners of premium cars and SUVs. The Desert Dash 2015 will involve driving through the most scenic locations enroute and staying at the best accommodations that the region has to offer. When: December 1-5, 2015 Where: Jaipur, Rajasthan
MUNICH TOLLWOOD WINTER FESTIVAL
30
A unique Christmas market, it consists of more than 200 stalls to shop and experience international fair-trade and alternative lifestyle products. Handcrafted pottery, cosmetics, fashion items, clothing, jewellery, body art, tattoos, and organic food from all over the world will be on display. One large tent will display the international vegetarian-vegan food and related products. When: Nov 24 - Dec 23, 2015 Where: Munich, Germany
CHRISTMAS VILLAGE IN PHILADELPHIA An outdoor holiday market with vendors in more than 70 wooden booths, the event will offer traditional European food, sweets and drinks including, gluhwine, a spiced mulled wine. It will also provide a great shopping experience with international holiday gifts, ornaments, jewellery, and high-quality arts and crafts. When: November 21 - December 27, 2015 Where: Love Park, Center City of Philadelphia November 2015 | www.spiceroutemag.com
UPDATE
COVER STORY
EXPLORE
TÊTE-À-TÊTE
INDULGE
CONCERN
POTPOURRI
WHAT’S NEW
NEW AIRPORT TERMINAL AT TIRUPATI
32
In October 2015, Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated a new integrated terminal building at Tirupati Airport to enhance the connectivity to the famous temple town in Andhra Pradesh. At the inauguration, the Prime Minister highlighted tourism as the biggest manufacturer of growth in the present scenario. The form of the airport has been evolved and conceptualised with the form of an eagle in flight, i.e., Garuda, the carrier of Lord Vishnu. The new terminal can handle code 'D' and code 'C' types of aircraft.
SIKKIM TO GET ITS FIRST AIRPORT
To boost tourism in the country’s northeast region, India’s Minister of Tourism, Culture & Civil Aviation, Dr Mahesh Sharma, announced that the remote Indian state of Sikkim will get its first airport in 2016. Providing much-needed air connectivity to the landlocked state, the airport will come up at Pakyong, 35 km from Gangtok. At an altitude of 4,700 ft, it will be one of the five highest airports in India. At present, the nearest airport to Gangtok is located 124 km away at Bagdogra in West Bengal.
NEW APP FOR HISTORICAL SITES
CaptivaTour is the new app that has been launched for immersive audio-visual guided tours of historical monuments in Delhi. Starting with three monuments in Delhi (Qutub Minar, Humayun’s Tomb and Red Fort) and three in Agra (Taj Mahal, Agra Fort and Fatehpur Sikri, November onwards), this app will provide a fresh, contemporary and yet insightful perspective to these sites through the engaging story-based approach. The tourist would be surprised at some of the fascinating stories and insights that underlie these places! The app has a user-friendly interface and is customisable (by duration and content). November 2015 | www.spiceroutemag.com
UPDATE
COVER STORY
EXPLORE
TÊTE-À-TÊTE
INDULGE
CONCERN
POTPOURRI
FALL IN LOVE WITH THE FATTY BAO
34
After spreading happiness in the cities of Bengaluru and Mumbai, The Fatty Bao finally opened its doors in Delhi. Pegged as an inventive, trendy and chic Asian dining experience, the restaurant has fun and vibrant interiors with an entire wall dedicated to the journey of the bao, quirky light fixtures and a relaxed ambience. No need to mention, do try their specialty open baos. The Spicy fried fish, with its tempura sea bass, curry mayonnaise and pickled Chinese cabbage, may get a little messy, but every mouthful packs a punch. When scanning through the small plates, the Crispy fried lotus root doused in sticky sweet chilli sauce is a must try. If in the need of some comfort, one can try the Chasu Ramen with
braised pork belly, bean sprouts, scallions and topped with a soft boil egg, or opt for any of the curries complemented with sticky
TAJ FROM HOT AIR BALLOON TAJ Balloon Festival will take place in Agra from November 14 – 16, 2015. Department of Tourism, Government of Uttar Pradesh, in association with Sky Waltz will host this event to boost leisure, adventure tourism, and aviation based entertainment in the state. The Festival will feature 15 balloons from different countries and expert balloonists will display their skills as the skyline of the ‘Taj’ city Agra will be dotted with colourful balloons. November 2015 | www.spiceroutemag.com
rice or noodles. The desserts here are quite grand, and aim to please with their presentation to begin with. The Fatty Hill, a Chocolate pyramid with a mint custard centre, almond praline, rice crispies and vanilla bean ice cream should be on your radar. Address: Sangam Courtyard, Sector 9, RK Puram, New Delhi Meal for two: `1,600 plus taxes
RISING FESTIVAL TOURISM Indian travellers are holidaying like never before and Festival Tourism has taken off in India. Till a couple of years ago, festival celebrations were limited to family homes, today the entire families travel together for the celebration. ○ Diwali is the most favoured festival for travel to international destinations followed by Gandhi Jayanti, Dussehra, Bakrid and Ganesh Chaturthi. ○ Couple travellers account for 38.37% of the share of holidays; following them are family travellers (32.09%), larger groups (26.54%) and single travellers (3%). ○ Top Ten Domestic destinations include Andaman & Nicobar, Kerala, Manali, Goa, Shimla, Kashmir, Gangtok, Sikkim, Darjeeling and Himachal Pradesh. Source: HolidayIQ
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Love flying with SpiceJet? Now plan your holidays with one of India's leading domestic airlines that recently introduced SpiceDestinations.com, a plethora of end-to-end travel solutions, making your travels not just convenient, but also Red. Hot. Spicy.
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HAT ARE THE HALLMARKS OF A PERFECT HOLIDAY? Easy flight booking or brilliant air connectivity; convenient travel solutions within the destination or comfortable stay options; priorities differ from person to person. What remains essential is to connect with the
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perfect travel partner that can offer the best of services tailored to meet your every need. SpiceDestinations.com is a one-stop-shop for customised travel packages offering services beyond the ordinary. Choose your pick from a vast network of domestic and international holiday destinations and
GOA
DUBAI
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37 SpiceJet has a well-connected network offering a multitude of flights to Bangkok, Maldives, Goa and Dubai. For more details, log on to www.spicejet.com
Destinations.com! book your flights with the right bundle of services that will ensure an effortless journey. Specially hand-picked hotels, quick car rentals and travel packages created in association with local holiday experts, there is much to benefit from SpiceDestinations.com. One of the key differentiators of this product is that customers can make changes in their itinerary online, according to their needs, and at every step of the trip. Such as, if a customer wants to opt for a bigger car even if the package entails a smaller one, he can do so, and that too with ease. For the convenience of the traveller, the online portal also acts as an information buddy. In the second phase of operations, travel experts will share their experiences, comments, blogs, etc., that can help customers plan
their next trip. Reviews from fellow travellers will also help customers to plan right. In a unique initiative, with this new product, customers will have the flexibility of booking a package with a minimal amount and can pay the rest later through various EMI options that will be made available along with other regular options too. As SpiceDestinations.com is powered by SpiceJet, every customer will enjoy great flight and hotel deals, culminating with smart, convenient and detailed travel packages. In keeping with the digital age, the new product will be connected with SpiceJet's mobile app at a later stage. So travel the world with SpiceJet's enviable travel packages and experience the perfect holiday.
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MALDIVES Pristine azure waters stretch out till as far as the eyes can see, whitesand beaches and vivid marine life, Maldives is the ultimate holiday destination.
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Maldives is my favourite destination. Apart from the beautiful huts built over the clear waters, the islands embody a serene and relaxed environment. My perfect travel holiday would be one spent with my loved ones.”
Taherin Imran Shaikh, CSE, Goa
Dive into the sea
Water sports are immensely popular here, especially when you're surrounded by water. Opt for surfing, scuba diving, snorkelling and parasailing among others. A paradise for surfers, the Atoll of Malé is a perennial favourite among surfers. The surf-huts overlooking Raalhugandu provide a vantage point for watching the waves.
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Visit the National Museum that showcases a selection of items belonging to Maldivian royalty and a variety of archaeological findings. On display are various ornaments and costumes worn by the many kings and queens, stone items of the Maldives' pre-Islamic period, paper and cloth manuscripts, arms and armour, photographs of important personalities, anthropological objects, etc. Head to the nearby lush Sultan’s Park, to hear a cultural and historical past of this island nation.
Foodie's delight
Offering a variety of international cuisines, one can enjoy Italian, Thai, Indian and Chinese cuisines, among others. However, do try the local cuisine that mainly uses fish, starch and coconuts. Enjoy a variety of seafood such as lobsters, crabs, octopus, tuna, grouper, etc., and do try the local beverages. Be it barbeque on the beach, fresh local ingredients and delicious curries, food aficionados will be swept of their feet.
November 2015 | www.spiceroutemag.com
SpiceJet offers direct daily flights to Malé from Kochi, and convenient connections from various cities across its network. For details, log on to www.spicejet.com
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BANGKOK Combining a heady mix of gravitydefying skyscrapers and Buddhist temples, glitzy malls and delicious street food, the metropolis is an amalgamation of old world charm and new age cityscapes.
Gods & kings
Visit the Grand Palace that was once the official residence of Thai kings for nearly two centuries. Now important state and religious functions are held here. With magnificent halls, gardens, intricate architecture, it will leave you mesmerised. Do visit Wat Phra Keow (Temple of the Emerald Buddha), regarded as the most sacred Buddhist temple and situated within the premises.
Floating markets
Intrinsic to Bangkok, the floating markets comprise boats piled high with tropical fruits and vegetables, ready-to-drink coconut water and local food cooked in these makeshift floating kitchens that are dished out to locals and tourists alike. November 2015 | www.spiceroutemag.com
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Bangkok was the first international destination I took my mother for a holiday. I have many memories attached to this city and love the amazing sightseeing options, lip-smacking food and adventurous spirit. A perfect holiday should be well planned and executed. I often read up about the destination before, and keep a check on the budget. A well planned itinerary means a smooth journey.” Kaveri Priyadarshee, Check crew, Kolkata
I love Bangkok because it offers an amazing shopping experience. The energy of the city is magnetic and it's the perfect place to let your hair down. For me, a perfect holiday can be alone, that includes hassle-free travel, comfortable stay and great food!” Bhumika Patel, Check crew, Ahmedabad
SpiceJet operates daily flights to Bangkok from Kolkata, with easy connections from other cities. For details visit www.spicejet.com
Retail indulgences
Often considered as the hub for shopaholics in South East Asia, one can never be too far from a mall in Bangkok. Visit the malls that house everything or drop by Chatuchak Market, the biggest flea market in the world.
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DUBAI A glittering emirate, Dubai's cityscape is always in flux. The high rise buildings and extravagant architecture, traditional souqs and sparkling malls, Dubai blends the past with the future, and redefines the present.
Experience Dubai
Dip your feet in seawater, watch the surfers splash around, pose in front of the Burj Al Arab and try to pinch the top with your fingers; sometimes it’s fun to act like a typical tourist. Take a trip up the tallest building in the world today, Burj Khalifa, which is over 828 mt high and 160 storeys.
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Dubai has magnanimous malls that beckon shoppers from afar. Dubai Mall is the largest shopping centre in the world with over 1,000 shops. The traditional souqs have small shops that display their wares outside. With the aroma of heady spices in the air, one can purchase herbal tea concoctions, handmade bags, gorgeous lamps, shoes, etc.
Dhow cruise
Hop on to a dhow and gently sail across the naturally decorated creek over the smooth blue sea.
SpiceJet offers convenient daily services to Dubai from Delhi, Mumbai, Pune, Madurai, Kochi, Amritsar and Ahmedabad, and convenient connections from other cities across its network. Log on to www.spicejet.com for more details. November 2015 | www.spiceroutemag.com
I love travelling to Dubai as this destination reminds me that the power of dedication and determination will help you achieve the impossible. A perfect holiday for me is backpacking. I love to explore new places while staying disconnected from the rest of the world.” Lavi Baliyan,
Cabin crew in-charge, Delhi
Dubai is my favourite destination as it has a vast platform for numerous opportunities to grow. A travel holiday is perfect when I experience something special, when the place transports me to bliss and when I have the perfect travelling partner to enjoy the holiday with.” Harikrishna V, CSE, Kochi
I am a shopaholic and Dubai is well known for its shopping centres, apart from being a great holiday spot. Its beauty is fascinating. For a perfect holiday, the destination should be easily accessible with an attractive environment and fun places to visit. Pocketfriendly budget and good company are equally important.” Karamveer Kaur, CSE, Chandigarh
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GOA Known for its popular beaches, vibrant flea markets, culinary extravaganza, rich heritage and spectacular flora and fauna, Goa offers innumerable and extraordinary experiences.
Hit the beach
When in Goa, ensure you get your feet wet at one of the many beaches in north and south Goa. In the north, the beaches of Calungate, Baga, Vagator, Anjuna and Candolim are the popular ones. Calungate beach is dotted with numerous restaurants, and this 7 km sandy stretch is known as the 'queen of beaches'.
Spice plantations
Goa has many fine spice plantations that offer guided tours. See where most of the spices used at home originate, witness the processes
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Goa is undoubtedly my favourite travel destination. It's like my second home. The food, beaches and culture are something anyone can relate to. One keeps coming back for more. For me, a good itinerary, proper connectivity and an ideal travel partner constitute a perfect holiday for me.”
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Goa without a doubt is my go-to holiday spot. With its happening lifestyle and close to nature locales, it brings me closer to my inner self. Goa rejuvenates and relaxes me. For a perfect holiday, one requires an amazing destination that makes you feel fresh and alive. It's important to plan your holiday such that you spend quality time with family/friends.”
Nelson Reddy,
Kush Sharma,
Cabin crew in-charge, Hyderabad
Cabin crew in-charge, Delhi
they undergo, the medicinal benefits they impart and top the tour by digging into authentic Goan meals, made from fresh organic ingredients, served at the farms.
SpiceJet offers daily flights to Goa from Mumbai, Delhi, Hyderabad, Chennai and Pune, and further easy connections from other cities across the network. For more details, log on to www.spicejet.com November 2015 | www.spiceroutemag.com
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Bohemian rhapsody
This tiny state offers some of the most funkiest marketplaces to shop from. Anjuna beach, like many others, have flea markets nearby. Do visit Artjuna, a lifestyle boutique in Anjuna that has been set up in a Portuguese house. From flared skirts to crochet tops, 'beachy' hats and quirky accessories, hidden gems can be found here.
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In Maldives, head to the beach and get your scuba gear on. SpiceJet team showcases what it's like to be in the island nation
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COVER UNPLUGGED Here are the snapshots of the November cover shoot where excited employees from Airport Services and Cabin Crew depict a few of the many SpiceJet destinations.
Catching up with colleagues during the shoot November 2015 | www.spiceroutemag.com
It's fun to not be at work for a day!
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One 'groupie' with the boys is a must! :)
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Staff from different cities share stories over lunch
Post all the action and drama, finally it's time for the wrap up pic! November 2015 | www.spiceroutemag.com
Getting that perfect look before the shot
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48 HOURS IN
KOLKATA
Former British capital of India, colonial architecture, unique cuisine and incredible culture… Kolkata should be on the bucket list of every traveller. WO RDS | M EGHA PAUL PH OTO G RA PH S | DILIP BANERJEE
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city that likes to take it easy, where the heart rules the head, where both the bygone and the new coexist in perfect harmony, Kolkata is a way of life. It offers a plethora of options for moving around in the city.
Take a ride in its bright yellow Ambassador taxis, local buses, shared auto rickshaws, cycle rickshaws, the underground metro and the hand-pulled rickshaws DAY
On day 1, explore the heritage belt in South Kolkata.
10 AM: VICTORIA MEMORIAL One of the most iconic structures of Kolkata is the pristine white Victoria Memorial. Built to commemorate Queen Victoria’s diamond jubilee in 1901, it was completed only two decades later. Constructed in the Indo-Saracenic architectural style by Sir William Emerson, the monument makes perfect use of white marble. Its memorial hall boasts of the largest collection of Indian landscapes in oils and aquatints by Thomas and William Daniell as well as a library with some rare titles of the 19th century.
SpiceJet offers direct daily flights to Kolkata from Agartala, Bagdogra, Bangkok, Bengaluru, Chennai, Delhi, Guwahati, Mumbai, Port Blair, and convenient connections from other cities across its network. Log on to www.spicejet.com for details.
Must do: For that perfect selfie, head to the photogenic view of the manicured gardens across reflecting ponds. In case you are in a super holiday mood, don’t forget to take the horse-drawn carriages in front of the Victoria Memorial entrance. 11.30 AM: MAIDAN RACE COURSE Head to Maidan - one of the country's largest race courses. Here the most prominent sweepstakes races are Queen Elizabeth II Cup race, Calcutta Gold Cup and Indian Champion Cup. Despite the fact
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that it offers five racing tracks, a helipad, a golf course, a lake on the premises and polo grounds at the centre, do check the schedule in the morning dailies before you head this way. It’s obviously more fun when you can see the races in action here. 12.30 PM: NEW MARKET There is a common saying in Kolkata, if something is not available in New Market, there are very low chances of you getting it elsewhere in the city. This grand Gothic-style building with its clock tower was originally meant for British gentry. The SS Hogg Market, now commonly known as New Market, is flooded with street peddlers. The labyrinthine network of shops sell products ranging from books to clothes, food to
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video games, jewellery - almost any commodity imaginable. New Market is a truckload of joy and a haven for cheap food. Start with the drool-worthy king of Kolkata street food -- phuchkas and chaats. You will find hundreds of temporary stalls selling these. For lip smacking rolls, try Nizam’s and Badshah. To satiate the sweet cravings, visit Nahoum and Sons for its delicious brownies and rum balls as well a rich selection of cakes, biscuits, pastries and breads fresh from the oven.
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2.30 PM: COLLEGE STREET If you want to snuggle your way through rows of homes, printing presses and even more bookstores, head to what is called Kolkata’s Boi Para or College Street. You can also walk down from College Street to the mythic café- Coffee House to pay homage to the great adda culture. This place is a symbol of ‘Calcutta’ heritage amidst change. This unpretentious high-ceilinged place was once a meeting hub of freedom fighters, bohemians and revolutionaries. So come here for the nostalgia of the intellectualism of the bygone past, the bohemian rhapsodies of the 80s, and moreover, to just fuel up your tank before you hit the mighty book market. The maze of bylanes offer mainstream textbooks, guide books, pulp bestsellers and what not. You will come across enthusiastic shopkeepers who will show you what you want. 4 PM: BELUR MATH For some spiritual pursuit, head to the peaceful Belur Math. The Temple, located on the banks of the Hooghly River, was founded by Swami Vivekananda and is now the headquarters of the Ramakrishna Math religious organisation. The temple incorporates architecture and designs from Hinduism, Islam and Christianity. This is the place where Swami Vivekananda resided and died in 1902. A monument
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commemorated in his memory stands within the Math premises right beside River Hooghly. Photography is strictly prohibited at Belur Math.
renowned Howrah Bridge. One of the world’s busiest pedestrian bridges, it offers great views of Kolkata and the Hooghly River.
6 PM: DAKSHINESWAR KALI
THAKURBARI
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On the opposite side of the Hooghly River (which is a distributary arm of the River Ganges) and a boat ride away from Belur Math, is the Dakshineswar Kali Temple. Dedicated to goddess Kali, the construction of the temple was done between 1847 and 1855, covering an area of about 25 acres. Ramakrishna Paramhansa, was also associated with this temple as a priest and finally achieved his spiritual vision in this temple itself. The entire compound is sort of a fair, showcasing Kolkata street food, stalls and plenty of religious objects for sale. 8 PM: 6 BALLYGUNGE PLACE For a bite of authentic Bengali cuisine, head to 6 Ballygunge Place for dinner. Providing the perfect ambience for a multi-course Bengali meal, it is housed in a hundredyear-old bungalow decorated with pictures of old Kolkata. The highlights include the Kasha mangsho, a traditional Bengali spicy mutton curry dish and Daab chingri, prawns cooked in mustard (a favourite amongst Bengalis) and cooked inside of a hollowed-out coconut.
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Explore the varied facets of the city today.
7 AM: MULLIK GHAT FLOWER MARKET
Start early by visiting the lively Mullik Ghat flower market. Located directly under the Howrah Bridge, morning is the best time to be here. Walk along the colourful chaos of flowers and take a stroll across the November 2015 | www.spiceroutemag.com
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9.30 AM: JORASANKO Jorasanko Thakurbari, the ancestral home of Nobel laureate Rabindranath Tagore, encapsulates the history of an era. The house turned museum exhibits the manuscripts, journals, paintings and photographs of Tagore. Do not miss the Vichitra Bhavan section that gives an insight into his lifestyle, study and his self-composed wedding invitation in his wife Mrinalini Devi’s room. 11 AM: KUMARTULI - THE
POTTER’S DISTRICT
Dig into the typical delicacies of the region, relishing each mouthful with joy
Carrying a history, this area churns out some of the best earthen idols of Goddess Durga. Walk through the small and narrow workshops of the idol-makers and watch artists giving finishing touches to the idols and foreigners armed with cameras at this large open-air exhibition space.
Above: An artisan at work in Kumartuli; Below: A view of Mullik Ghat Flower Market
Photograph | Bhaswaran Bhattacharya
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12.30 PM: BURRABAZAR Visit the city’s most nostalgic landmark shopping centre, Burrabazar for some shopping spree. Stop for some roll on the way. Try the chicken or the egg roll and end your meal with rosogolla and mishti doi. 2 PM: SCIENCE CITY Caterpillar ride, cable cars, monorail cycles, road train and butterfly nursery… To experience all this and a lot more, head to Science City. The largest science centre of India offers an evolution park inside the complex with 26 dinosaurs, 71 robotic pre-historic animals and 140 plant models that depict the story of evolution through the years. The other main attractions of Science City are Space Theatre, Time Machine, 3D shows, Dynamotion and Natural Science Park. 4 PM: NICCO PARK For some thrilling entertainment go to Nicco Park. This 40-acre Disneyland of West Bengal features over 35 attractions. Among the rides, Water Chute, Cable Car, Water Coaster, Family Carousel, Pirate Ship, Toy Train, Striking Cars and Bumping Boat are worth trying. For an utterly
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Princep Ghat Do visit Princep Ghat and let yourself free in the tranquillity of the calm waters. The river lapping up the ghats is the perfect prescription to find your own peace. A boat ride at Princep Ghat is an experience anyone visiting Kolkata should indulge in.
adrenaline-charged experience, try ‘Cyclone - The Roller Coaster’ ride. 6 PM: PARK STREET Spend the last couple of hours at Kolkata’s joy factor, Park Street. Walk down the lane and step into Peter Cat to gorge on their iconic Chelo kebabs and relive the British
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nostalgia. You can also go to Top left: Mocambo for some exotic Prawn Nicco Park; Above: cocktails and Chicken a la Kiev. Science City Needless to say, you cannot miss Flurys. A part of the heritage of the city, the confectionery section and all their excellent sweet and savoury items, cakes and breads await you. 8 PM: SOMEPLACE ELSE And you cannot leave the city without experiencing its night life, vibrant clubs and ambient live music scene. This British-styled pub is a favourite haunt for locals and tourists alike. Come here for its live music, mostly Western rock, played by bands, amazing drinks and great finger food. Tantra is another place to let your hair down. Aqua in The Park Hotel is ideal for lounge lovers. Relish the sumptuous finger foods and sit by the open air pool. As my 48 hours in this city came to an end and I waved adieu to it, I made a silent promise to myself. A promise to return to this feeling and fervour soon to realise the actual charm of this city all over again. TO VIEW THE CITY DURING DURGA PUJA, TURN TO PAGE 100
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PARAGLIDER’S PARADISE
BIR BILLING
With Bir-Billing in Himachal Pradesh playing host to the AAI Paragliding World Cup in October 2015, the event puts the region on the global map for aero sports. 58
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here is in each of us a small part that wants to soar into the skies in communion with the clouds and the birds. For most of us that stays a dream. Yet, a visit to Bir-Billing in Himachal Pradesh ignites the hope of this dream turning into a reality. The BPA recently hosted the AAI Paragliding World Cup, from October 23-31, 2015, a first for Indian Aero Sports. The event brought some of the biggest names in the world of paragliding to India.
November 2015 | www.spiceroutemag.com
The successful conduct of the Pre-World Cup – a series of competition lower than the World Cups – in 2013, enabled India and BPA to get the privilege of hosting the World Cup, which according to the President of the BPA, Sudhir Sharma, is a ‘huge honour’. He says, “In the world of paragliding, a World Cup is a big event and we have in the past shown that BPA and India is capable of hosting such an event. We are hoping to get a Super Cup in the future.”
THE WORLD OF PARAGLIDING
There are five events scheduled for 2015. The first four were held in Baixu Guandu, Brazil (April); Montalegre, Portugal (July); Disentis, Switzerland (August) and Ager, Spain (August). The last World Cup in the series for the year was held in Bir-Billing. Next is the annual Super Cup to be held in January 2016 in Mexico.
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HOW TO REACH BIR-BILLING
Delhi to Bir: 499 km Delhi to Billing: 514 km SPICEJET FLIES DAILY TO Gaggal Airport-Kangra (90 minutes from Bir-Billing) Jammu Airport-Jammu (4 ½ hours from Bir-Billing) Sri Guru Ram Dass Jee International Airport- Amritsar (4 ½ hours from Bir-Billing) PLACES NEARBY: Kangra airport is 40 km away from Bir Palampur is 29 km from Bir Baijnath is 13 km from Bir
November 2015 | www.spiceroutemag.com
Billing is the launch site for paragliders. Billing Valley is based in McLeodganj, Dharamshala, and BirBilling in Palampur. The BPA, an active body in sports, and the only one in India recognised by various international federations, is planning to put in place a firm structure, which will also lead to greater tourism inflow. “This is a high-end sport and paragliders want the best of weather and facilities in terms of safety and conditions; Bir-Billing in Himachal Pradesh offers that,” informs Sudhir Sharma, a former paraglider pilot himself. In the near future, Billing Paragliding Association plans to bring all paragliding units under a single umbrella, and also set a
standard for safety in tune with international guidelines for the sport. Hotel accommodation is mostly available in Bir and many new ones with all modern amenities are coming up. The take-off is from Billing, which is 14 km away and is roughly at 2,400 m, about 1,000 m above Bir. Bir, a world renowned centre for eco-tourism, spiritual studies and meditation and aero sports, is home to many Tibetans and has several Buddhist monasteries and a large stupa. Bir and the village of Chowgan on its southern edge is where most pilots stay. Bir-Billing is almost naturally suited for the sport. Apart from spectacular views, it also provides an area that offers a 200 km expanse for flying in the mountains for heights of as much as 4,500 m. The Airports Authority of India, seeking to support Adventure Sports, was the Title Sponsor of the Paragliding World Cup.
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wordsmith IN CONVERSATION WITH A
Urdu poet and famous film lyricist, Javed Akhtar, has been spinning words into magic since the last four decades, resulting in a string of hits. Recipient of multiple awards, his writing evokes an intense range of emotions. W O R D S| AA RTI K A PUR SING H
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aved Akhtar had been, till recently, fighting a lonely battle against the “de-lyricisation of film lyrics,” as he calls it. He wrote Kuch na kaho from 1942 - A Love Story when the last mega hit song was Sarkai leyo khatiya.
Confessing there was enough and more pressure, Javed Akhtar also admits he refused to be budged “There was a demand for either double meaning or no meaning (gibberish) at all. People did try to arm-twist me, but I refused to budge. Ultimately, the poor souls had to remove me from the film. I’m aware that film-making is a collaborative effort, it’s team-work. But I can’t be loyal to a team at the cost of my aesthetic sense or morality. I would rather walk out. In such situations, I’ve always walked out and wondered what makes people so gutless. Why can’t they take a stand? There’s a Laxman rekha which I will not cross.” Born in 1945 to poet Jan Nisar Akhtar and singer Safia Akhtar, also a teacher and writer, Javed Akhtar's original name was Jadoo, taken from November 2015 | www.spiceroutemag.com
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MY FATHER’S ENDEAVOUR WAS TO MAKE THE URDU LANGUAGE AS TRANSPARENT AND ACCESSIBLE TO THE COMMON MAN AS POSSIBLE. HIS POETRY WAS PURE, SIMPLE AND VERY INDIAN
64 a line in a poem written by his father: “Lamha, lamha kisi jadoo ka fasana hoga.” He was given the official name of Javed since it was the closest to the word ‘jadoo’. Jan Nisar is known for his uncomplicated film lyrics like ‘Ae dil-e-nadaan’ (Razia Sultan) and ‘Yeh dil aur unki nigahon ke saaye’ (Prem Parbat), ‘Gham ki andheri raat mein dil ko na beqaraar kar’ (Sushila), ‘Behkudi hadd se jab guzar jaaye’ (Kalpana). It was a trait that his son Javed learnt too. He says, “My father’s endeavour was to make the Urdu language as transparent and accessible to the common man as possible. There is a difference between the Lucknow and Delhi school of Urdu expression. The Delhi school uses a lot of Arabic and Persian words. But Lucknow, because of its proximity to the Awadhi culture, didn’t allow Urdu to be influenced by Arabic and Persian. Urdu poets from Lucknow like my father, avoided Arabic and Persian words. His poetry was pure, simple and very Indian.” November 2015 | www.spiceroutemag.com
Talking about his difficult relationship with his father in the same breath as acknowledging Jan Nisar Akhtar's contribution in his taking up poetry, Javed Akhtar says, “My relationship with my father wasn't ideal. Due to his
political ideology, he was forced to go underground in Mumbai while my mother was left behind to look after two very small children. When I was 18, he recognised the poet in me and encouraged me to write. He would recite what he wrote to me and we’d discuss his poetry. He took my criticism seriously and we spoke poetry like equals.” Javed Akhtar first established his credentials as a storyteller of repute as one of the partners-in-crime of scriptwriter duo Salim-Javed. The duo soon gave a string of hits such as Sholay, Seeta Aur Geeta, Deewar, Zanjeer, Don, Trishul, Shakti and several others. There was a time when the duo charged more than the superstars that brought their characters to life. Amitabh Bachchan, for instance, was paid `7 lakh for Dostana and Salim-Javed charged `7.5 lakhs - an unheard of sum in those days for script! When it comes to spinning words, Javed Akhtar is a raconteur for more reasons than one. Right from
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FOND MEMORIES
When Javed Akhtar arrived in Mumbai on October 4, 1964, he was a homeless man without any food or shelter. He struggled to find work in the Hindi film industry. He slept under trees, or in corridors, until he took shelter in Kamal Amrohi Studio in Jogeshwari.
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Javed Akhtar met Salim Khan during the making of the film Sarhadi Lootera. Salim was a small-time actor, and Sarhadi Lootera was one of the last films he acted in before he turned his attention to writing. Javed was a clapper boy for the film and was later made the dialogue writer as director SM Sagar was unable to find a dialogue writer. While working in this film their friendship began. Salim Khan used to assist writer/ director Abrar Alvi at first and Javed Akhtar used to assist Kaifi Azmi. Abrar Alvi and Kaifi Azmi were neighbours, from there on Salim Khan and Javed Akhtar became friends. Back in the 70s, scriptwriters weren’t given credit on film posters. On not getting the appropriate recognition, Salim and Javed decided to paint their names on the posters of the film they have worked on. Javed Akhtar has won the Filmfare Award 14 times seven times for Best Script, and seven times for Best Lyrics. He won the National Award five times. In 2013, he received the Sahitya Akademi Award in Urdu, India's second highest literary honour, for his poetry collection Lava.
November 2015 | www.spiceroutemag.com
the whiplash-like ‘Mere paas ma hai’ (Deewar) to the velvety smooth ‘Neela Aasmaa so gaya’ (Silsila) to the soothing ‘Panchhi Nadiya’ (Refugee) and the rousing ‘Lakshya’ (Lakshya), ‘Jadoo’ weaves magic with his words. And he continues to scribble, rather than work on the computer that his wife Shabana Azmi, gifted him. And yet he finds instant rapport with gen-next as well. “My first love remains scripting. It is sad that my own son doesn't offer me the work,” he adds in jest. “When Farhan was a kid, every year he’d make me write a skit for his school. That too free of cost. And now, when I would have gladly written for him, he went and did his own thing,” quips Javed. But that doesn’t make him any less proud of his children, Zoya and Farhan, from his first marriage to Honey Irani. “What makes me proud is not what they have achieved, but that they have achieved their place with good work that has been appreciated, and that too without any support whatsoever from their father. I am also proud of the fact that their ideas are original, and the source of inspiration is life, and not films we’ve seen in the past,” says Javed.
I'M PROUD THAT FARHAN & ZOYA'S IDEAS ARE ORIGINAL, AND THEIR SOURCE OF INSPIRATION IS LIFE ITSELF Wrapping up the interview on why his craft transcends generations, Javed Akhtar ends philosophically and says, “In the case of my family, the sum total of all our opposites is the understanding and emotion we have for each other. You see, we have a pact. We will tell each other if we feel something needs change. We listen to each other. But there are times when we don't agree! And that is independent of our egos. Perhaps because my children have allowed me into their world, I can speak their language too.”
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OREGANO ‘THE PIZZA HERB’
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Oregano is not just associated with pizza, this wonderful herb adds a warm, balsamic and aromatic flavour to many different dishes. WO RDS | NEELAM S I NGH
A
member of the mint family, Oregano is a culinary and medicinal herb, that traces its origin to Greece. The French and Italians use it widely, mostly in tomato-based dishes.
The chemicals that give the herb its unique and pleasant smell are thymol, pinene, limonene, carvacrol, ocimene, and caryophyllene
HISTORICAL REFERENCE
Oregano was first used by the Greeks. As per their mythology, Goddess Aphrodite invented the spice and gave it to man to make his life happier. Ancient Greek physicians discovered its benefits and used it in the treatment of a variety of ailments. Hippocrates used it as an antiseptic. When the Romans conquered Greece, they liked the taste of oregano and spread it throughout Europe and Northern Africa where it was used extensively to spice meats, fish and even to flavour wine.
EACH SPICEJET AIRCRAFT HAS BEEN NAMED AFTER A PARTICULAR SPICE. IN THIS ISSUE, WE TALK ABOUT THE BENEFITS AND USAGE OF OREGANO. November 2015 | www.spiceroutemag.com
V ol 1 • I s s ue 4 • J ul y- S e p t e m be r 2 0 1 4
Volume 1 | Issue 3
Alter Ego
SUFI VOICE Kailash Kher Achiever
FOOTBALL CAPTAIN Sunil Chettri
Live life to the fullest
Mexican way A MaXposure Media Group Publication
A MaXposure Media Group Publication
October-December 2014 October-December 2014
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POTATO SALAD Ingredient s: 6 potatoes cut in 1/2 inch slices 1/4 cup olive oil 2 onions, 4 tomatoes (chopped) 1 tbsp oregano 2 cloves garlic (chopped 1/2 teaspoon red chilli flakes 1/4 cup fresh basil (shredded) 1 tbsp black pepper (fresh) 1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil 1/2 cup mayonnaise Salt to taste
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Method: 1. Boil the potatoes in lightly salted water till cooked. 2. Drain and let them cool. Lightly brush each side of the potatoes with olive oil and sprinkle salt and pepper. 3. Grill on medium heat till golden brown. 4. Heat the virgin olive oil in a non-stick pan; add chopped tomatoes, onions, garlic and mayonnaise and sauté on a medium flame for some time. 5. Add grilled potatoes, oregano, chilli flakes and salt. Stir gently till fully coated. 6. Top with fresh basil and serve.
Recipe by Vijayant Rawat, Executive Chef of Mosaic Hotels Noida
USES Culinary uses
The warm, balsamic and aromatic flavour of oregano makes it the perfect addition to Mediterranean and Mexican cuisines. It works well with many foods (not just Italian). Try adding it to salad dressings, vegetables, eggs, or starters. Beyond this, one of the best uses for oregano is adding it to meat prior to cooking, which may help reduce the toxic compounds created during the cooking process. Oregano’s potent flavour can easily overpower the flavour of other foods, so it’s best to use it sparingly at first.
Did you know? Though it was used in England, people in the United States were not aware of it until the Second World War when the soldiers discovered the flavours and aromas during the Italian Campaign and started liking the spice. November 2015 | www.spiceroutemag.com
Medicinal uses
The popular culinary herbs is packed with numerous healthful compounds. ○ It contains vitamins A, C, E, and K, as well as fiber, folate, iron, magnesium, vitamin B6, calcium, and potassium ○ Oregano has anti-inflammatory, anti-microbial, and anti-fungal effects. ○ Its oil is useful for respiratory ailments like colds & flu and to fight infections and parasites of different sorts.
Other uses:
○ Apart from being commonly used in various types of food preparations around the world, it is used more in perfumes. ○ Oregano essential oil has long been used to fight infections and parasites of different kinds. ○ It is also used in gardening because it improves growth of surrounding plants.
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SWEET DHAMAKAS
Bored of the usual syrupy ghee-laden Diwali sweets? Fret not. Nouvelle Indian sweets are here to perk you up this Diwali. WO RDS | MI NI RI BEIRO
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ne may not necessarily want to go the Fresh cream nougat cake and Hazelnut mousse route on Diwali and prefer to stay traditional. Yet, the good ol’ Motichur ladoo, Kaju katli, Khoya barfi, seem a tad humdrum. With the younger generation constantly seeking something new in terms of variety, taste and presentation, women preparing Diwali sweets at home have become innovative and quirky, giving Indian sweets a makeover.
November 2015 | www.spiceroutemag.com
With fusion as the buzzword, one can give regular Diwali sweets a twist with a bit of imagination This can transform the taste, texture and flavours completely. And of course presenting these sweets in a new avatar makes a world of difference. Strawberry karanjis, Gajar halwa patishapta and Green apple barfi are
thus, now becoming commonplace in traditional homes as well. Most women adept at cooking have realised that giving a twist to traditional recipes of sweets can be challenging, but exciting and hence, they play around with ingredients. Swati Sani, a Nagpur based entrepreneur who loves to cook, feels there are times when one wants something different during the festive season. Indian sweets are made keeping Indian tastes in mind and while these are loved, at times, one needs to give them a twist.
2015
HALL NO.18, STALL B-9/10
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TRY THIS AT HOME! Recipe by Swati Sani, Nagpur Ingredient s Fresh coconut - 200 gm (peeled and grated) Condensed milk - 100 ml Dark chocolate - 1/2 slab Method Step 1 In a pan, mix all but 2 tbsp of grated coconut with condensed milk over low flame till the mixture thickens and starts leaving the sides of the pan. This would take about 10 minutes. Allow it to cool a bit and roll them into 12 equal sized balls using ghee in your palms and refrigerate for about 30 minutes. 74
Step 2 Melt dark chocolate over a water bath and dip one coconut ladoo at a time in dark chocolate. Remove and keep in a plate. After all the ladoos are coated with chocolate, garnish each of them with a few strands of grated coconut and refrigerate them for another 30 minutes. Step 3 Remove the ladoos from the refrigerator and serve.
November 2015 | www.spiceroutemag.com
A mixed platter of Diwali sweets
“I make coconut crusted chocolate ladoos for a friend of mine who is not too fond of traditional Indian sweets but loves chocolates,” she quips.
EXPERIMENTING IS FUN
With newer and exotic ingredients easily available nowadays, women preparing Diwali sweets at home are ready to experiment. Rajgira flour has made its way into the kitchen and is being used to make barfis and ladoos instead of the usual besan or gram flour. Soya kalakand is yet another recent inclusion and is touted as apt for vegans. For those wanting organic sweets, home makers are using wheat grass and millets too. There are ingredients galore, but one has to be well-versed with the basics to know the delicate interplay between textures and flavours. The proportions of the substitutes have to be accurate, without compromising on the original taste, while the textures must be complimentary.
Tip for experimentation
Fresh fruits must be converted to a preserve to blend with Indian sweets. Fusion can be fun and can be done with interesting ingredients, presentation and even cooking methods.
FRUITY FLAVOURS
Fruits are a natural choice when it comes to innovation. Many prefer using fresh fruits or fruit puree. In Kolkata, housewives often make use of mangoes in sweets. Chopped mangoes are typically used. Sandesh, the popular Bengali sweet, is commonly given a twist with the help of fruits. Mangoes pair well with chenna (crumbled cottage cheese) and enhance the taste and texture of the sweet. Apple, both red and green, is another favourite and Apple jalebis are a great hit for a Diwali breakfast in several Gujarati households. It is also used as a filling for sweet kachoris along with mawa or khoya. The subtle sweet and tangy flavour of the apple compliments the rich and creamy khoya.
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76 Citrus fruits like oranges are also combined cleverly with milk and mawa to make barfis or halwas. In Mumbai, the traditional karanjis (half-moon deepfried stuffed pastry) are getting innovative fillings. While, traditionally the filling is made of suji (semolina), sugar and crushed dry fruits like almonds, pistachios and cashew nuts, now fruits like strawberries are being incorporated. This lends a nice crunch to the karanji, giving it a bite and enhances the flavours too. Dry fruits are traditionally a part of most Indian sweets, but are now being used differently. Hazelnut katli instead of the typical cashewnut or kaju katli, dates and sesame rolls, date and nut ladoos, Khoya anjeer barfi, etc., are doing the rounds on Diwali. Dry fruits like dates, nuts, flax seeds and figs are being infused to enhance the sweet quotient instead of adding more sugar to the Indian sweet, as most people are becoming health conscious. November 2015 | www.spiceroutemag.com
EAST MEETS WEST
Dates, nuts, flax seeds & figs enhance the sweetness without excess sugar INNOVATIVE FILLINGS
The burst of flavours in the mouth when one bites into a sweet is unparalleled. Many are coming up with unique fillings for Indian sweets, thus giving it an interesting twist. The traditional sandesh in Kolkata is being filled with gulkand, and patishapta (the sweet pancake) is now being filled with the north Indian favourite gajar halwa, apart from chocolate.
The ubiquitous Gulab jamun too has undergone a makeover. Gulab jamun tarts are being made at home and are appealing to the eye as well as delicious to taste. Khusshi Shah of Mumbai, who specialises in desserts and sweets has created the La Gulabo – a flat motichur ladoo in a leaf shape, topped with gulab jamun. She prefers playing with textures and flavours, more so, where international desserts meet Indian flavours. Deepasri Kar from Chennai, makes Gulab jamuns filled with Nutella. Apart from chocolate, Oreo biscuits have found favour with many. Popular with children, these are being used in barfis for that extra crunch and sweetness. Unleash your imagination this Diwali and make your Diwali platter exciting with fusion sweets.
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THROUGH THE
Mystic Eye
An internationally-renowned speaker, Sadhguru is a yogi, mystic and visionary. In this series, Sadhguru clears several misconceptions about yoga, and offers refreshing perspectives on this ancient science. 78
Dr Prathap Reddy (Founder, Apollo Hospitals): What is the secret to staying well? Sadhguru: There are two kinds of ailments: infectious and chronic. Infectious ailments happen because of an external invasion. You must go to the doctor for that. But 70% of ailments are self-created – they happened from within you. What happens from within can easily be fixed from within, because the manufacturer of this body is inside. If you have a repair job to be done, would you like to go to the manufacturer or the local mechanic? If you had access, you would go to the manufacturer. Then, every problem that you generate within the body can definitely be handled. Yoga is a technology to bring you in touch with the innermost core, which is the maker of this body, so that health is a natural outcome.
November 2015 | www.spiceroutemag.com
Uma Parvathi (SpiceJet passenger from Hyderabad): What is the right kind of food to eat? Sadhguru: What food you eat should depend not on what you think about it or on values and ethics, but on what the body needs. Food is about the body. So, when it comes to food, ask the body what it is happy with. Try different foods and see how your body feels. If it feels agile and energetic, the body is happy. If it feels lethargic and needs to be pumped
with caffeine or nicotine to stay awake, it is not happy. Every individual must arrive at one’s own balance of diet, not by vows but by observation and awareness. Normally for most people, a vegetarian diet with 50% uncooked vegetables and fruits, and 50% cooked food will do. If one eats lots of sprouts, fruits, and vegetables in an uncooked, live condition, it brings a different level of aliveness. This will sustain life within you very well.
SpiceJet welcomes its passengers to ask Sadhguru questions on yoga, health, wellbeing and other topics of general interest. Select questions will be answered in forthcoming issues. Please email your question to mediarelations@ ishafoundation.org For more of Sadhguru’s wisdom, visit http://isha.sadhguru.org
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MY FAVOURITE NOOK
Poet-philosopher Kahlil Gibran had once said, “Your house shall be not an anchor but a mast. It shall not be a glistening film that covers a wound, but an eyelid that guards the eye.” Though most of Bollywood's film stars have the means to have spaces custom-built to suit their needs and tastes, everyone has a place in their home where they feel most comfortable. WO RDS | A ARTI KAP UR S I NGH
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“
My house is my dream-come true. I love every brick of it - every nook, every corner, and every crevice. If you were to insist I tell you the part of my house I like the most, I could say I like the terrace – where I can see and hear the sea, I can wave out to the thousand fans who shower love on me. I stand here and feel like I am standing on top of the world. I also love being in the play area with my kids. I also find myself completely relaxed in my library – I just pick up a book and can be there for as long as I want. I am also rather fond of the bathroom – I can stare and make faces at myself in the mirror. And therefore, I take long hours in there.”
November 2015 | www.spiceroutemag.com
SHAH RUKH KHAN Actor
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But this is just the beginning. The best is yet to come!
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“
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I live in a duplex apartment which is, thankfully, very airy. We get to enjoy all seasons from all parts of our house. We have a small gazebo on the terrace, which is great for watching the rain drench the city. My kids and I play a lot of board games there. I also love the wooden staircase that leads from the living room and entertainment area to our bedrooms. When my son Zeke was small, we had to constantly guard against him crawling up those stairs – he would invariably be found perched on one of the landings. Even now, we love sitting there.”
ARSHAD WARSI Actor
“
I am forever basking in the sun in my lawns. Aaradhya loves to play in the lawn and I love watching her and sometimes join her in her games in the tent. Sometimes the dogs get involved too. It is a nice place for a jog if I am too lazy to gym on a particular day. Most of our entertainment also happens in the lawns. And I am grateful we are blessed to have that space in a city like Mumbai.”
ABHISHEK BACHCHAN Actor
“
My bedroom is my haunt, my den. Not just because it is my own space, but I’ve done it up myself completely. At the end of a hard day at work, the fact that I am going back to my room and shut the world out is such a comforting thought. Of course, the cherry on the cake is when my mom settles my room complete with fresh flowers in the vase. The best way of relaxing for me would be to take a nice long hot bath and curl up with a book in my room.”
SONAKSHI SINHA | Actor
November 2015 | www.spiceroutemag.com
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The favourite part of my house for me has to be my son’s nursery! It is a different wonderland altogether. There are his toys, his books and other playthings. It is the best stress buster for me to watch him play and observe how he keeps himself happy with little things. Often when he’s sleeping, I just quietly turn over the pages of his various fairytale books, nursery rhyme books, or arrange his toys in their various bins – just going over the pages makes me reminisce over my own childhood. I just feel so much at peace with myself amidst the calm of my son’s room – even if his toys are strewn all around.”
84 SHILPA SHETTY KUNDRA
Images are for representation purpose only
Actor
November 2015 | www.spiceroutemag.com
I love the balcony of my house! It is great for watching the birds. It has a great view of the sunrise and the sunset. Besides, my husband Goldie and I always have our cups of tea or coffee there – so I associate my balcony with togetherness, warmth and leisurely moments of relaxation.”
SONALI BENDRE Actor
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FESTIVE HOME CLEANING
THE FENG SHUI WAY
Don’t just clean your home space this festive season, transform your lives. Revamp your house with Feng Shui. WO RDS | RIZWANA MUNDEWADI
W
ith loads of excitement, go for a cleaning spree this festive season of lights. It is important that the whole house be cleaned in and out. Here are seven magical steps from the Feng Shui point of view for cleaning of your home space.
Go ahead, change your life this festive season, and make a fresh start!
1
CLEAN THE SPACE
The process of cleaning, vacuuming and removing cobwebs is a basic part of cleaning home space. Energy in your home, from Feng Shui point, Chi, is what you can understand by moving around your home. See how it flows or doesn’t flow. Dusting and mopping just removes physical dirt. Past arguments, financial losses and discussions that led to negativity and
strained relationships in your family, are stuck in those corners. Clear it all and purify the space. The whole process of cleaning is in a sequence from the main door; cover each wall, each space and then come back to the entrance. Understand your feelings, blockages, if anything calls for attention, trust me, it will communicate. Salt in Feng Shui is a magical purifier. Put rock salt in corners at night and sweep it next morning, visualising all negative energy flowing out. You can also mop your floor with salt added to water.
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CLEAR THE CLUTTER
Clutter blocks energy from the Feng Shui perspective. Check each room carefully, things that have not been used since the past few years will hardly come handy later on! Donate them, share them, or simply let them go gracefully. This will clear the space and who knows this might just be one of the reasons why your relationships are strained or maybe your career and finances are blocked! Check the outer space as this too affects the Feng Shui of your home. Windows are the ears and nose of the home, keep them clean. The glass covering your paintings, the metal and wooden frames, all need to be cleaned. Again, this is glass that needs to be clean, otherwise it reflects a mixed illusion of life and not the real picture. It would be good to clean with mild salt and soapy water to purify them with fresh energy. Costly gifts, furniture, antiques, mirrors and handovers may be precious, but do accumulate energy over time. Clean them with salt water and thoroughly
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things back in place. Trending space savers help to organise your things and your life. Maybe that beautiful geometric wall bookshelf, the kitchen cutlery holders, and the bedroom keys holder; each represent your control over your life. Take charge and let your life flow smoothly. Scattered objects in home space reflect energy of life in a mess, and an organised one indicates how you handle life situations. Each furniture piece is good for a particular space and will provide comfort there. If your home space has scattered furniture, it will affect the life energy and all aspects of your life.
Windows are the ears and nose of the home, keep them clean purify them before using in your home space. Don’t forget to clean the main entrance; this is the mouth to your home. Do clean under the floor door mat; alternatively, it would be great to add a new door mat!
3
ORGANISE WHILE CLEANING
Organise things in a proper manner. People do tend to use chairs, stools and then leave them after use. Make it a habit to put
November 2015 | www.spiceroutemag.com
CONCERN
4
CLEANING WINDOWS, MAIN DOOR AND LIGHT FIXTURES
Clean window glass thoroughly as dirty glass represents a misleading view of outside life. The main entrances need to be thoroughly cleaned and protected from negative energies. Lights are an essential part of Feng Shui. They attract great Chi and fresh sunlight is one of the main sources of energy. Open windows frequently and allow fresh energy into your space. In case of dark areas, add some artificial lights. Clean the light fixtures thoroughly; a dirty lamp emits less brightness. Broken and dim, dysfunctional lights
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reflect loss of energy and resources. Thus, even if you work hard, you do not get the benefits of your efforts. The passages, the store rooms, study, dining room, bedroom; check the feelings you get when you enter each room and clean this space. Remember, lights in each room must be task oriented. Even switches must be clean, in proper condition and smoothly working. Add some glam quotient by choosing some great chandeliers and fancy light fixtures this festive season and activate Chi all around. Clean lights attract fresh ideas, and good luck, and wonderful creative energy into any space. Gloomy spaces often have Yin, the dark energy that is harmful for inmates. It would be great to add some lights, artefacts, some paintings to activate these corners, and - who knowsyour Feng Shui career or your prosperity sector might be just here!
5
6
FOCUS ON YOUR KITCHEN
While you go about with the regular cleaning of your kitchen space, keep an eye on the furniture that is broken, cracked, dull, and refurbish them. Kitchen is the main source of energy and money in Feng Shui. The kitchen stove and burners need to be in proper working condition and clean. This directly affects incoming wealth. Clean the refrigerator of clutter. When you open the kitchen shelves, you will typically encounter over flowing packets and over stocked items! Check out all the unused packets of food, stored spices, ready mixes; most of the times the dates have expired! Do de-clutter your
CONCERN
Add some glam quotient with great chandeliers and fancy light fixtures kitchen space and allow fresh energy and wealth. Organise your kitchen well with space for everything and see how your life, health and wealth seem to come in control.
POTPOURRI
CLEANING STORAGES
Bedrooms in Feng Shui often indicate your attitude to life and solving problems; so if you have the habit of dumping just about everything in the large storage under your bed, it indicates you are not taking charge of your life and covering up problems without facing responsibility. This reflects on your relationships with others. Each drawer, each shelf, must be cleaned and not a single thing left unattended.
7
BATHROOM CLEANING
Cleaning the lavatory and wash basin is not the only cleaning required for bathrooms. In Feng Shui, this is the most important part from where negative energy needs to thrown out. Ample lights, fragrant candles and by keeping the toilet door closed, you can prevent energy and finances draining from your home. Add some salt to the drains to flush away all the negativity. Do check that the taps and water fixtures are in good condition, as leaking taps and blocked drains indicate wealth losses. With a fresh space, glowing with pure Feng Shui, you will surely feel the difference in your life and your home space.
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Sabyasachi Mukherjee's 2015 wedding collection displays shades of green
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TIE THE KNOT IN STYLE
While no one particular style governed on and off the runway, we certainly did notice a few dominant trends. Let's take a sneak peek at this year's hottest wedding couture trends... WO RDS | GUNEET OBEROI
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ew horizons in the world of Indian Bridal Fashion were born this season. This year cemented the rise of the modern Indian bride with designers pushing the boundaries and exploring trends unexplored. Tradition was melded perfectly with modern cuts and hues.
Fashion Director Anaita Shroff Adajania rightly puts it that the brides should follow their instincts when it comes to choosing their wedding attire and should not always go with conventional looks November 2015 | www.spiceroutemag.com
Delving further into the unconventional space, a number of Indian fashion designers chose to play with distinctive styles and colours. “For me, she is a global bride, the one who is a travelling woman and is thinking explorative. Reason being I feel couture has now become global, forward and progressive. It’s no longer obvious and traditional like how it used to be earlier,” asserts ace designer Gaurav Gupta. Advocating the new generation's tilt towards lighter and more structured styles, veteran designer Tarun Tahiliani states, “Buoyancy, lightness, finesse and froth match the mood of today’s new generation Indians who prefer comfort and fit over heavy, cumbersome old school bridal and occasion wear.”
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TRENDS FOR BRIDAL DRESSES
Dramatic silhouettes to dramatic embellishments and dramatic tones - all notions of subtlety were dismissed. Ace designer Sabyasachi Mukherjee's 2015 collection dominated this trend and displayed an old world charm through the unconventional collection. “There is an air of mystery, dark and brooding. This collection to me is almost without definition. More textural than defined, sensual more than sexy, and languid more than structured. The collection is inspired by the 1920s, it’s rich with a baroque feel. There is an oriental influence, reminiscent of the oriental life in Burma and Shanghai back in those days,” he elaborates. Deep textures
94 Top: An ensemble from Tarun Tahiliani 2015 bridal collection; Left: Gaurav Gupta's 2015 occasion wear collection
Abstraction is a tool to push boundaries of shapes and silhouettes of Indian wear and a mono-tonal look created more dramatic presence in the collection, thus displaying one of the most revered trends this season. Layering is another new thing in the Indian fashion scene. It is not only limited to bridal wear but can be seen in groom couture. You could pick anything from short heavily embroidered jackets like November 2015 | www.spiceroutemag.com
Sabyasachi’s, a draped poncho from Kiran Uttam Ghosh's 2015 collection, or a paneled veil from Tarun Tahiliani's Eclectic New World Collection. “I play with a lot of layering, drama, intricate embroideries and flowing fabrics. Abstraction is a tool to push boundaries of shapes and silhouettes of Indian wear,” says Gaurav Gupta about his collection. The mermaid silhouette is back in fashion and is mostly seen in gowns, lehenga skirts, saree gowns and long dresses. Technically the mermaid cut contours the body till the knees and then flares out to the hem. The style variations include
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STYLES TO TRY
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Today’s bridal and groom couture trends have evolved. Most brides now want their outfit to be classy and unique. For them its more about an elegant outfit rather than one overloaded with work. As we talk about grooms’ ensemble, they usually opt for shades of gold or deep hues in velvet with just a little border and a beautifully done doshala. For other wedding functions, their choice of attire is a reflection of fusion wear. Brides opt for drapes or dreamy gowns, while for grooms the new trend is draped pants such as dhoti or Jodhpuri styles. A cowl draped kurta is also doing big this wedding season in groom wear.
Top: Bhumika Grover's fall/ winter 2015 wedding collection; Below: An ensemble from Sumona Couture
Inputs by d&n by Dheeru and Nitika
flaring from above the knee, below the knee or from mid thigh. “My garments are prepared keeping in mind the other peripheral functions/ occasions at a wedding, be it sagan or mehendi or a cocktail evening, thus western silhouettes such as the mermaid cut looks best when worn at your cocktail or mehendi function as it accentuates your curves and looks sensual,” says Gaurav Gupta.
TRENDS FOR GROOMS
It's time to explore trends in groom wear and who best than Tarun Tahiliani to give us a lowdown on this. “Men have switched from wearing suits and now want to look very much the groom, combining the traditional with fine November 2015 | www.spiceroutemag.com
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tailoring and fit. It’s unconceivable anymore to see a groom in a suit, in a mandap. Similarly, for sangeets, pooja, etc., being Indian is celebrated. The groom has awakened. From paired down refinement to ‘complete costumes of Royal India’ chic, he is fit, involved and dancing, as a consequence of morphing metrosexual Indian males – this is the new India after all,” informs Tahiliani.
COLOUR ME RIGHT
“Bridal wear doesn’t necessarily mean traditional attire or girly silhouettes and palettes. Skip the bright, vibrant colours and be unconventional,” says Mukherjee whose latest collection's colour palette begins from blacks to greys
98 Left: Divani 2015 collection brings back traditional red; Far left: Kiran Uttam Ghosh's unconventional black ensemble
then moving on to gunmetals, sand, distressed ivories, and finally ox blood. Ghosh further adds, “I've had more brides ordering black saris and ghaghras than any other year and similar is the case for kurtas for the men. Colours like Deep Aubergine and Navy are also very popular,” asserts Ghosh. Tahiliani adds, “Brides and grooms should only wear what suits them most. Bridal trends are moving away from blingy and multicoloured ensembles to a more sophisticated palette of creams, beiges and golds with red and of course, pearlised summer tones.
Bridal trends now include a palette of creams, beiges & golds with red Black and cream are classics and one can almost never go wrong with them.” For some designers, pastels dominated the wedding wear colour palette as it accentuated the dreamy nature of the bride, creating an illusion of mystical romance. Pale pinks, mint greens and beige tones were seen in the couture collection of Shyamal & Bhumika, Jyotsna Tiwari and Payal Singhal.
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HOWRAH BRIDGE Saurav welcomes you to his city showcasing the landmark of Kolkata, an engineering marvel. VICTORIA MEMORIAL Right: Dipa and Saurav proudly flaunt the majestic white marble palace built in 1921, in the memory of Queen Victoria. November 2015 | www.spiceroutemag.com
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KOLKATA
THE CITY WITH A SOUL The grand architecture, the rich history, the silence of the ghats and the noise of trams, define the city of Kolkata. During Durga Puja, the city exults in the resounding joy and celebrations. Be it resplendent deities, thematic pandals, or street food; the city glows bright. Rediscover the city in a new light with SpiceJet team, and revel in the festive magnificence. P HOTOGRAP HS
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Airport services Kolkata
Saurav Basu
Airport services Kolkata
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WRITERS' BUILDING The official address of the Chief Minister of West Bengal, the red brick style structure got it’s name for being the dwelling place of the junior servants (known as writers) of the East India Company during the early British era.
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VIDYASAGAR SETU Popularly known as second Hooghly bridge, it is the longest cable–stayed bridge in India and one of the longest in Asia. The bridge connects the city of Howrah to Kolkata.
3 GPO
esigned in 1864, GPO is the major post office of West Bengal D and one of the most prominent landmarks of Kolkata. It has a Postal Museum that displays an excellent collection of artifacts and stamps. November 2015 | www.spiceroutemag.com
ADVERTORIAL
Aitken Spence to launch a new Turyaa brand Heritance Destinations, Sri Lanka’s leading chain of resorts, owned and managed by Aitken Spence Hotels announces the launch of a new brand in its portfolio: Turyaa by Heritance. Turyaa by Heritance is all about simple pleasures, meaningful extras and good value. The primary focus of the brand would be about essentials done right and taking care of guests with good food and good cheer. Turyaa by Heritance was conceptualized upon identification of the changing lifestyles of our guests and their needs. With the digital revolution and globalization gradually changing the demands and preferences towards brand selection, we recognized that our guests need a brand that is more flexible, responsive, interactive and value driven. Located in gateway cities, resort destinations and MICE locations, Turyaa by Heritance is designed around ultimate comfort, great food, good value and outstanding “can-do-service” that deliver the perfect place to stay for go getters, trend setters and high flyers who want to reconnect, rejuvenate and relax. Turyaa Chennai is located in the IT Corridor of Chennai and just a short
drive away from the heart of the city. Whilst being a business hotel, it will also transform into an idyllic sanctuary of rest and entertainment by evening, flaunting its infinity rooftop poolside that opens out to the whole of the bustling city. The property will open its doors on 1st October 2015 followed by a launch in November. Turyaa Kalutara (formerly known as The Sands) will offer a diverse range of eclectic dining options including Arabic, fusion and local cuisines. The property boasts a diverse range of accommodation with large guest-rooms ideal for families. Great food, fun, lively and vibrant will be the hallmarks of this property located just 37 km’s away from the city of Colombo. Further properties such as Turyaa Ahungalla (currently known as Heritance Ahungalla) will be redeveloped and launched in Winter 2016. In addition, the brand hopes to include further properties in Kandy, Passikudah & others to its portfolio between 2016- 2018. Aitken Spence Hotels operates a chain of 24 hotels and resorts in Sri Lanka, India, Oman, and the Maldives under two premier brands: Heritance Destinations
and Adaaran Resorts. Each of their properties caters to a diverse client base, having hotels suited to every need and budget while maintaining high standards of hospitality. Located in key tourist locations, the Aitken Spence chain boasts of exotic properties such as the award winning eco-friendly Heritance Kandalama which is situated in close proximity to five UNESCO world heritage sites, and the Desert Nights Camp in Oman, rated as one of the top ten desert retreats in the world. Please visit www.turyaahotels.com to find more about Turyaa by Heritance.
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PANDALS Ever seen a pandal made of just matches or biscuits? During this festival, artisans give free rein to their imagination, creating pandals of different hues, sizes, and themes. Whether reconstructing pagodas or Kathmandu's Durbar Square, pandal hopping is recommended. You can even spot local celebrities from the regional film & TV industry marking their appearance at the popular pandals. November 2015 | www.spiceroutemag.com
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STATUE Kolkata is renowned for its thriving art & culture. This is conspicuous in the various forms of the deity portrayed from place to place, often in keeping with the overall theme. Be prepared to stare at deities that depict art forms from across the world.
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DHAKIS The maddening beats of the dhak are enough to conjure up the atmosphere of Durga Puja.
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THE JOYOUS MOOD This festive season is a time when new clothes are adorned, families and friends step out together to enjoy the celebrations, eat out and revel in the carnival-like atmosphere near the pandals. From gravity-defying rides to indulging in the ubiquitous 'phuchka', the energy is upbeat and electrifying.
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EMPOWERING WOMEN
Providing technical and vocational education to rural women is the main objective of Eco-spa – Angul Rural Women SHG, an initiative that offers rural woman scope for growth and steady income.
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ackyard vegetables & fruits cultivation is common among village community at Angul in Odisha. The villagers used to sell these fruits, vegetables and herbs in the nearby Haats or markets at a very low price. Also, lack of proper storage facilities and ignorance about value addition to their produce made them lose interest in farming, which was otherwise an engaging activity for the women in the village, since there is less access to other opportunities. Taking cognisance of the fact, JSPL Foundation has taken the initiative of providing technical and vocational education to these women through their community colleges. Rural women are
November 2015 | www.spiceroutemag.com
taught practical, relevant skills to improve their employability.
Hands-on training with the latest tools and equipment is emphasised under the constant supervision of qualified instructors As part of the Eco-spa Self Help Group (SHG) initiative, the locally available fruits, vegetables and herbs are converted into different marketable products through systematic value addition process.
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OBJECTIVE
The Initiative promotes widespread socio-economic development, takes care of the environment, emphasises on responsible consumption, nurtures nature, and promotes organic agriculture; thereby strengthening the traditional knowledge system.
THE TOUGH ROAD
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In the beginning, the group faced two major challenges: product acceptance and product marketability. a) These products are developed on the concept of European handmade soaps having natural base and cleansing effect with low/no foam. This was not easily accepted by the general mass in India as they are habitual to a lather rich soap with a defined shape and size. b) Other products like body butters/ creams, oils, etc., are also without synthetic colours & essences. c) Brand value was an issue since, it has competition from many established brands and also the products being developed in the rural area by the rural women. The challenges are mitigated in a phased manner with continuous market surveys and customer feedback mechanism, highlighting the importance of these products through sample distribution during fairs and through special occasions. With the available feedback and customisation of the product size and packaging, the acceptance has increased and there was a good demand in the market, especially in the metro cities.
GOVERNMENT HELP
The initiative was supported by the government under National Rural Livelihood Mission through Odisha Livelihood Mission to assist these groups with Odisha Rural Development & Marketing Society (ORMAS), in the form of capital November 2015 | www.spiceroutemag.com
These women are the ambassadors of positive change aspiring for a better quality of life support and free stalls across India to establish its products across the country.
BRINGING POSITIVE CHANGE
The women that have associated directly or indirectly with this
initiative are the ambassadors of positive change, who aspire for a better quality of life in the village. This initiative has changed their lifestyle through utilisation of their leisure hours in the making of cosmetic products with the help of the produce from their backyard. They are now able to support the study of their children and help their family in need.
LOOKING AHEAD
The group is now developing body care products as per market demand and is in touch with wholesalers in the metros so that they can have uninterrupted supply of materials. They are even planning to open outlets in cities and towns, especially in Bhubaneswar, with support from big market players and promote their products to a larger audience.
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THE COO'S PLAYLIST
SpiceJet plays soft rock music on its Boeing flights for boarding and landing. Here is November's playlist personally selected by our COO.
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LOUIS ARMSTRONG What A Wonderful World 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.
TOM PETTY & THE HEARTBREAKERS Here Comes My Girl Released in 1980, this song was written by American rocker Tom Petty and Mike Campbell and the chorus is said to have been inspired by The Byrds. While trying to sing it in different ways, Tom ended up narrating in the verses.
PINK FLOYD Another Brick In The Wall Part 1 [Demo] Part of a three-song set, the first part appears on the album The Wall (1979). Written by bassist Roger Waters, this version is an atmospheric early demo version by Waters himself, of what became a worldwide hit. The song is based on Waters' life, on how his father died during the Second World War. Growing up without knowing his father caused Roger to isolate himself from others.
FARHAN AKHTAR, HRITHIK ROSHAN, ABHAY DEOL & MARIA DEL MAR FERNANDEZ Senorita Part of the film, Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara (2011), the song is a lovely blend of Spanish and Hindi lyrics set to a foot-tapping Spanishinspired tune.
FOREIGNER Waiting For A Girl Like You
A power ballad by the British-American rock band, Foreigner, the song was recorded in 1981. This song was one of the ‘power ballads’ of the 1980s, a staple for ‘slow numbers’ and first ever slow dances for teenagers of that period. November 2015 | www.spiceroutemag.com
QUEEN Killer Queen
Written by pianist and lead singer Freddie Mercury, this song featured in their album Sheer Heart Attack (1974). It was very different from the hard rock and energetic music that the band was known for, and was a breakthrough hit for them. RODNEY JONES Ain’t No Sunshine This is an instrumental version of the 1971 hit by Bill Withers, who incidentally was working on the assembly line of the Boeing 747 aircraft when he wrote this song!
THE 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.
PINK FLOYD It's What We Do
JACKSON BROWNE Somebody's Baby This track, part of the soundtrack for the 1982 teenage classic movie Fast Times at Ridgemont High, is Jackson Browne’s sole #1 hit. It speaks of a typical teenager's insecurities of asking the class heart-throb for a date because “she must be somebody’s baby, cause she’s so fine.” While the girl in question is lonely and unattached.
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.
FOREIGNER I Have Waited So Long A lesser known 1980’s gem from the kings of power ballads, Foreigner. A lovestruck lament of pining, unrequited love. GOTYE Somebody That I Used To Know (feat. Kimbra)
Written by BelgianAustralian singer Gotye, the song also features Kimbra, a singer-guitarist from New Zealand. The indie pop ballad that was an international hit depicts Gotye reminiscing about a past relationship where his lover cut him off completely from her life.
BEE GEES More Than A Woman This 1978 ballad from the peak of the disco era by the Bee Gees, is from the soundtrack of the movie Saturday Night Fever, capturing the New York City feel of the decade. CROSBY, STILLS & NASH Just A Song Before I Go This folk rock song released in 1977, ended up being the band’s biggest commercial hit. The song was written by Graham Nash about leaving loved ones behind before going on a concert tour. It was written in Hawaii in about 20 minutes at the piano, while Nash and Leslie Morris were waiting for the rain to stop before leaving the house.
JAMES BLUNT Goodbye My Lover FRANKIE VALLI Released as part of Grease former James Blunt's Performed by Frankie Valli, 2005 debut album Back to Bedlam. Blunt, who the song was written by Barry Gibb and is the title was an officer in the song for the musical film British Army and saw of the same name. Known action in Kosovo, is also an avid champion of for his powerful falsetto voice, Frankie sings in his wounded soldiers’ rights natural voice on this track. in the UK. This song is a haunting ballad about a DON HENLEY lover parting ways forever The Last Worthless with his loved one. Evening Released in 1989, the song BRYAN ADAMS Heaven was included in Henley's Originally recorded third album, The End in 1983, the song of the Innocence. This was written by Bryan song is rumoured to be Adams and Jim Vallance about Hollywood actress, and released in 1985. Michelle Pfeiffer, who The power ballad had just gone through a first appeared on the divorce and was not yet ready to move on to a new soundtrack of the 1983 film, A Night in Heaven. relationship.
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NORTH EAST FESTIVAL
CONNECTING PEOPLE
In a bigger and better avatar, the 3rd edition of North East Festival receives immense response as it concludes in grand style.
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ew Delhi came alive with the beautiful colours of India's Northeast region, as the North East Festival was held at IGNCA from October 1618, 2015. Apart from showcasing the entire gamut of North East’s culture, cuisines, handicrafts, music, et. al., promoting and boosting tourism in the region was the key focus of this year’s edition of the festival.
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The festival saw a great line-up of established and upcoming talents, music, culture and fashion. Around 40 bands performed, and the top designers and gen-next designers from North East showcased their work. Painting, Photography, Cartoon Exhibition, and handloomhandicrafts of the region attracted many. Musicians took centre stage in the evenings with some amazing performances by Zubeen Garg, Parikrama, Girish & The Chronicles, Late Too Soon, Bollywood singer Ash King and MSonic among others. Shyamkanu Mahanta, Organiser-in-Chief, North East Festival, said, “The Festival is an attempt to showcase and create
awareness about India’s North East region. Our aim is to reach out to more and more people and spread awareness about the region.” Highlights of North East Festival 2015: ○A dedicated Handloom and Handicraft Exhibition showcased best of ethnic products. ○ Seminars on potential of the food processing industry and the impact of North East Industrial policy. ○A n evening dedicated to Majuli, world’s largest river island which is being lost to erosion.
SPICEJET PROMOTES THE NORTH EAST SpiceJet was the airline partner of the festival, and is instrumental in inviting the tourists to explore this part of India. Shyamkanu Mahanta, while thanking SpiceJet for all its support to make this festival successful, said, "Our aim is to promote tourism in North East and since SpiceJet is a major stakeholder, it has a special role to play in tourism development in North East." November 2015 | www.spiceroutemag.com
○ A session on strategic importance of North East and Act East Policy. ○ State specific presentations from North Eastern States. ○ Dance performances by various North East tribes. ○ Near 40 musical bands and performances by top as well as emerging musical talents of the region. ○ Traditional sports of the region. ○ North Eastern culinary delicacies. ○ Fashion shows showcasing North Eastern designs. ○ Famous magic of North East. North East Festival Football Competition was the major attraction this year. The competition celebrated the association between the people of the North East and this wonderful sport. The festival was organised by Trend MMS, a sociocultural trust, in association with the North East Community of Delhi (comprising student organisations, people from North East India based in Delhi) and IGNCA.
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FORECAST FOR NOVEMBER 2015 BY D R . PRE M KUM A R SH A RMA
ARIES
TAURUS
GEMINI
CANCER
This is the best time to clear all pending dues, as money comes to you from various sources. You will manage to achieve your aims on both personal and professional fronts. Making the right moves at work will help win favour of those who matter. Good bargaining skills will enable you to save substantially.
It is best to keep a track of events that are unfolding on the social front. Old couples are likely to enjoy a rejuvenated love life. An important project will be seen to completion through your untiring efforts on the professional front. Those lagging behind in academics will catch up. A friend can motivate you to strive for good health.
You may feel a bit let down by someone on whom you had reposed total trust. A prestigious assignment comes to you and will add to your professional reputation. A home remedy may prove effective in curing a minor ailment. It may become difficult to convince the family about something you intend to do. A holiday may prove exciting.
Don’t feel reluctant to assert yourself a bit to get things done your way. Nip an ugly incident in the bud, before it causes ill will with a colleague. Someone may target you with malicious gossip on the social front, but isn't likely to tarnish your image. A misunderstanding with spouse may start a cold war, so clear the air.
Feng Shui tip: Decorate your home or office with a Feng Shui aquarium to attract wealth Chi.
Feng Shui tip: Repair leaky taps as this suggests gradual loss of income.
Feng Shui tip: Display Metal Feng Shui element art in the Northwest to attract fame.
LEO
VIRGO
LIBRA
SCORPIO
People will be out to help you, so don’t worry. Your financial situation is set to get better. This is not the time when you can afford to sit back and relax at work, because a new task stares at you in the face! Domestic harmony is assured. Good planning will help you achieve much on the academic front. Praise comes from those who matter.
Hiring experts is likely to lighten your job manifold. Your ability to impress others is likely to get the job done on the personal front. Trying to win over someone with something expensive may not get the expected result. Hiring people for specialised work may prove a daunting task. Keep sometime reserved for revision in an exam.
There is much running about in arranging a function and you are likely to jump right into it! A religious rite is likely to be performed, as part of tradition. You may become the proud recipient of a letter of appreciation. Longing for lover will be rewarded, as you manage to spend time together. Previous investments promise rich returns.
This is a favourable month for you. Your initiative on the professional front is likely to prove profitable. Good performance can be expected on the academic front. Meeting relations and friends is possible in a social function. You will be in a mood to splurge.
Feng Shui tip: Be positive and you will get the job you deserve.
Feng Shui tip: Good nutrition is good Feng Shui, so add healthy, organic foods to your diet.
Feng Shui tip: Fresh flowers bring uplifting energy to your kitchen.
Feng Shui tip: If single, remove the extra pillows and stuffed animals from your bed as they send the message that you have no room for anyone else.
SAGITTARIUS
CAPRICORN
AQUARIUS
PISCES
Those looking for a job can expect a good break. You are likely to become an asset for the organisation you work for through sheer competence. Good financial management will enable you to live comfortably and save too. An exciting development on the romantic front cannot be ruled out for some. Students are likely to enjoy an excursion.
The period may find you totally focussed on an important task. Your efforts will make you socially popular. There is someone who likes you, but is reluctant to approach. Your love for outdoors may take you to the countryside with friends. You will manage to submit a project nearing a deadline in time on the academic front.
Preempting problems by applying yourself intelligently on the professional front will keep you on a safe wicket. Someone’s help in a written assignment on the academic front will be most timely. You are likely to enjoy the company of someone interesting.
You may burn your fingers by getting on the wrong side of someone important, so be careful. Professionally, you may be a bit more tied up than usual. Behaviour of a family youngster may cause concern, but you may be reading too much into it. Waiting for lover to rekindle love life may take an eternity, so initiate things yourself! A short vacation is possible.
Feng Shui tip: Clear your home and business of clutter. A cluttered space can neither attract nor keep the energy of wealth.
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Feng Shui tip: For good Feng Shui, keep the kitchen simple and do not overload it with gadgets. November 2015 | www.spiceroutemag.com
Feng Shui tip: Maintain a good supply of fresh air by opening windows, allowing air to circulate.
Feng Shui tip: Avoid placing your bed against two walls where one partner is symbolically trapped in the corner, and consequently, feels trapped in the relationship.
Feng Shui tip: Place a hanging crystal in your window to activate Chi.
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A LITERARY JOURNEY
With his first book of poems published in 2013, Sanil Sachar is all set for the launch of his second book, The Dark Side of Light, early next year. The young author shares a few excerpts from his upcoming book.
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anil Sachar penned his first literary creation at the age of 16, when he went to play football in England. While he was away from home, pursuing football, he turned to writing in his free time that led him to embark on a literary journey. Having completed a degree in Sport Business Management, he worked in the corporate sector for a while before taking up writing full time. Sanil seeks to inspire others with his work, and now, he has taken to directing and writing for theatre, and films.
Nights Pass by Nights pass by, days pause and wait, I lay here resting my thoughts, While my eyes are wide awake. I feel a heat in my stomach This isn’t one from delusional fixations, I feel lull in my mind, This isn’t from past conversations.
LIFE AND ITS MEANINGS
Summer Promises and Other Poems is Sanil’s first book which was published in April 2013. The book launch was graced by eminent poet Javed Akhtar and politician Manish Tewari in New Delhi. The collection of 78 poems traverse a wide range of subjects, be it love, fame or failure to the occasional transformative moments. It provides the author’s perspective on the meaning of life and its experiences. As praised by Muzaffar Ali, this book is “a diary of living life in all its simplicity and immediacy. It is about growing to know things in the process of growing up with things.”
MEDLEY OF EMOTIONS
Sanil's second book, The Dark Side of Light is a unique compilation of short stories and poetry, consisting of 25 stories and 48 poems. It covers themes that will appeal to lovers of romance, murder, mystery, comedy alike. The book ensures that the reader feels November 2015 | www.spiceroutemag.com
My brows act as shutters, weighing pressure on my swollen eyes, My mind plays the job of a bank, storing missed opportunities and broken lies.
In the new book, poetry and prose complement each other while retaining their individuality a mix of several emotions with each turn of the page. Both poetry and prose complement each other by bringing two literary forms together, yet retaining the quality of being read individually.
I type each word, with an anchor chained around my mouth, Words seem to flow easier through this keyboard, While I try and figure what I am about Confusion and anguish accompany me, as subjects to my demise, I smile at distant mirrors, to hear back their cries.
Historic Fort- A Captivating Monument
Konda Reddy Burj Kurnool
Located in the heart of Kurnool city and believed to have been built by the Rajas of Vijayanagaram, Konda Reddy Buruju was originally a part of the Kurnool Fort and the only part left out of the magnificent structure. It was used at one time as a prison. History reveals that Konda Reddy, a revolutionary, attained martyrdom in the prison, and ever since, it has been known as Konda Reddy Buruju. Chronicles say that, Konda Reddy was imprisoned by the Nawab of Kurnool when he tried to oppose him. As the saga goes, Konda Reddy (1597-1643), the last ruler of Alampur defeated the Nawab of Kurnool who was a subordinate and an associate of the Golkonda Kings, several times. After a prolonged battle Konda Reddy was captured and imprisoned in the fortress. Because of his valour and untiring resolve to fight the Muslim rulers, the fort came to be known as Konda Reddy Bur uju. He is said to have breathed his last here and hence the fort is named after him. Some of the other interesting places in and around Kurnool include the Gol Gumbaz, Church, Shirdi Sai Baba temple and Jagannatha Gutta.
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SpiceJet launched their mobile app that offers never before convenience and speed for customers on-the-go.
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ith SpiceJet’s new mobile app, customers will find it more convenient than ever before to make and manage bookings, check flight status, and receive exclusive offers on their mobile devices. The interface is so simple that even the origin of journey helpfully gets auto-filled thanks to inbuilt geo-tagging. The app also allows customers to book or add exciting SpiceJet add-on products such as choosing premium SpiceMAX, seats, in-flight meals and Priority Check-in. Customers can also pre-book excess baggage at discounted rates through this app. The payment gateway of the app offers a variety of options like Quick pay, credit card, debit card and Internet banking. The Quick pay option ensures instant booking with just a single click. You can download the official SpiceJet app from Google Playstore and App Store.
STEP: 1 The main menu screen offers four options. To book a flight, select Flight Booking.
November 2015 | www.spiceroutemag.com
STEP: 2 Choose the required field. Fill in the details and click on the Search Flights option.
STEP: 3
STEP: 4
Flight options according to date of travel are displayed. The fare details are at the bottom.
On selecting the button, the detailed fare summary is displayed.
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STEP: 5 Once the required flight option has been selected, fill in your contact details.
STEP: 6
STEP: 7
Fliers can choose numerous add-on options that will make the journey hassle-free.
Customers can pay via Credit or Debit Card. QuickPay option saves transaction time.
ENJOY EXCLUSIVE OFFERS
With SpiceJet’s hot new mobile app, one can not only book flight tickets on the go, pre-book spice add-ons, check flight status and manage one’s bookings, but also get access to exclusive discounts. Book through the mobile app and get up to 7% discount on flight tickets and 50% discount on meals.
SPOTLIGHT
BATHUKAMMA: THE FLORAL FESTIVAL OF TELANGANA
T
he festival symbolises the cultural spirit of Telangana. During the festival, beautiful seasonal flowers like Marigold, Chrysanthemum, Indian Lotus, Celosia, Tanner’s Cassia, and many other flowers with herbal/ medicinal properties are arranged in concentric circles and the final ‘Bathukamma’ resembles a ‘Gopuram’ or dome of a temple. Mother Goddess 'Maha Gauri' is worshipped during the festival who is considered to be the protector of womanhood. 'Bathukamma' in Telugu language means 'O Goddess, Come Alive'. This festival is, in fact, the awakening of the Mother Goddess to bless them and their families with well being and prosperity. The festival is celebrated every year across Telangana in the months of September and October. In its essence, it celebrates the importance of womanhood. It is a festival of feminine felicitation. Women consider this festival a very special occasion to adorn themselves with traditional sarees and brilliant jewellery as well as all other traditional
feminine adornments. Bathukamma is followed by 'Boddemma' festival which is another week-long festival that declares the end of monsoon.
PALTECH
CAPACITY 28000 CMH
CAPACITY 28000 CMH
REQUIREMENT/WANTED
2 PALTECH
SPOTLIGHT
A TRENDSETTER
A
La Mode, which literally means ‘in the current style or fashion’, is an established Indian brand credited with creating trend setting and premium clothing. Whether it is the European Linen Collection, Smart Casuals or Denims, every product in its category is immaculately crafted and makes a statement. In addition to an absolutely oceanic range of apparel for men and women, it has recently introduced an elaborate European Linen Collection for men with an unmatched blend of both style and substance. Made from pure European linen, the world's strongest natural fibre, it is remarkably durable, comfortable and extremely skin friendly. It comes with its own unique texture but in 15 eyecatching yarn-dyed solid shades. Styled with the classic oriental round-collar and half concealed buttons, it can be teamed up with a jacket or smart jeans for a simple yet trendy look or double up as a semi formal with casual trousers.
ARTISTIC PACKAGING THIS DIWALI
P
une based P. N. Gadgil and Sons, one of the most trusted jewellery houses of the state, present a unique blend of art and jewellery by introducing special, innovative and one-ofa-kind packaging for ornaments. This special packaging would have legendary artist Raja Ravi Varma’s paintings on it. The jewellery house has 12 showrooms in Maharashtra and recently opened one showroom at Gulbarga in Karnataka. They plan to add 2-3 more showrooms in the current financial year.
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THE SAGAR SCHOOL ANNUAL SPORTS MEET
T
he opening ceremony of the annual mega event comprising Inter School Basketball matches and Triathlon Championship was inaugurated at the campus by Mr. Shiva Keshavan, Asian Cup gold medalist, five time Olympian and the first Indian representative to compete in Luge at the Winter Olympic Games. The Sagarian team with 12 other teams marched in the sports arena to the accompaniment of lively ceremonial band music played by the Gorkha Rifles from Jaipur. On the occasion, the Chief Guest spoke on the importance of fair play and sportsmanship and declared the meet open. The players and coaches were introduced to the Chief Guest and the Principal, Mrs. J. Balasaria, by the HOD Sports, Mr. M. Kumawat. Also present on
November 2015 | www.spiceroutemag.com
the occasion was Dr. Steven Edwards, internationally recognised educator, author, professor, keynote speaker, facilitator and trainer. The Director, Ms. Sharmistha Julka also greeted the athletes.
DREAM HOMES
At Homeland Heights, Mohali, international design blends with a luxurious lifestyle
I
magine a world where everything can be controlled with the touch of a button and where gadgets and elevators work at the swipe of a card. Imagine a house that is a perfect mix of cutting-edge design and the most luxurious contemporary living. Homeland Group, the Delhi-based real estate brand, respected and trusted for timely completion of all its 10 projects, is launching a new project, Homeland Heights, in Mohali, Sector - 70. Being built on a 4.60-acre plot at Sector - 70, SAS Nagar, the most prime location of the tricity, the Homeland group started the construction of the project in March 2014 and plans to complete the project by December 2016. Homeland Heights is a 17-storey high-rise apartments with a smooth amalgamation of beautifully designed homes embodying a luxurious lifestyle. Designed by renowned architect Hafeez Contractor, the three, four and five BHK apartments and penthouses, are intricately planned with strict attention to quality and smart space allocation for contemporary living needs.
SAFETY LADDERS
STAIR TREADS
FRP HANDRAILS/STAIRCASES
FRP FENCING
Among the amenities at Homeland Heights, are: ○ Earthquake resistant homes built on Vastu-friendly plot ○ Two regular elevators and two stretcher elevators in each block. ○ Over 3 acres of lush green and landscaped stilt area. ○ Rain water harvesting system. The project also offers: ○ Gates and elevators with swipe card access ○ CCTV monitoring in common areas; 24-hour manned emergency alarm ○ Air conditioned club house, mini theatre, high power gym, banquet hall, swimming pool with splash pool, cricket pitch, badminton and basketball courts
PALTECH
27
UPDATE
COVER STORY
EXPLORE
TÊTE-À-TÊTE
INDULGE
CONCERN
FESTIVE FLAIR
POTPOURRI
This season, don’t let ethnic be boring. Go global with quirky prints, vintage gold and, for men, linen-blend jackets. ELEGANCE PERSONIFIED An elegant georgette kurta with gold butis. By Trishaa. Price: `2,799 (set)
BROCADE BEAUTY White is evergreen. Layer with a brocade jacket. By Trishaa. Price: `3,999 (set)
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QUIRKY CHIC A stylish overlap kurta with a quirky raja-rani print. By Akkriti. Price: Kurta for `1,799; Churidar for `1,199
KALEIDOSCOPE Kutch-inspired embroidery goes contemporary with palazzos. By Jamini. Price: Kurta for `2,499; Palazzos for `1,199
FOR MEN ONLY The uber-cool man gets earthy in an embroidered silk-blend kurta and a cottonlinen waistcoat. By Indus Route. Price: Kurta for `1,299; Jacket for `1,199; Churidar for `499
Shop for these ensembles at your nearest Pantaloons outlet. Wow fashion at wow prices! November 2015 | www.spiceroutemag.com
UPDATE
COVER STORY
EXPLORE
TÊTE-À-TÊTE
INDULGE
CONCERN
POTPOURRI
DRESS YOUR HOME THIS SEASON Celebrate the magic moments of the festive season with Frazer and Haws, and its pious and classic collection. Take your pick from their enthralling collection of idols, puja accessories and elegant home décor. Every product is handcrafted and hallmarked with 92.5% purity. Price: On request Available at: Select stores in Delhi and Mumbai
CAPTIVATE THE SENSES
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Vanesa has launched a long lasting deodorant variant – Mist range, with Green Apple, Woody, Citrus, Spicy and Cedar notes that are in vogue internationally. The skinfriendly, alcohol-free deodorants are pleasant for daily use. The subtle fragrance lingers on, so you stay fresh and energised all day. Price: `150 Available at: Leading stores across India
HOT
PICKS Splurge on these lifestyle essentials
GO MINIMAL Take an inner journey with CD Slim shirts. Feel your troubles disappear as you put one of these exceptions. Slimming you down until you look like the man you always wanted to be. Go deep within yourself as you enter the heart of every party. Stripes, patchwork prints, turnup sleeves and stud buttons form an ethereal mélange around your persona. Available at: www.cdshirts.com; 64, Wodehouse Road, Colaba, Mumbai 400 005
November 2015 | www.spiceroutemag.com
FUNCTIONAL ART Baarique offers a collection of handmade Indian traditional utensils, such as copper, brass, steel, etc. Each piece is not only hand painted and oneof-a-kind, but also conveys a story. The brand aspires to encourage the work of local artists through functional art. The utensils are handmade by the traditional metal smiths in Uttar Pradesh and Rajasthan and then adorned with intricate artwork. Price: `1,500 onwards Available at: www.baarique.com
CHIC WRIST CANDY Casio India launched a new collection of stylish and colourful Sheen watches. Tailored to match the style of modern women, the new collection is designed with Swarovski® Crystals and is available in striking pink gold, black and brown band colours. Additional common features include a day & date indicator and 50-mt water resistance quality. Price: `6,495 to `9,000 Available at: Select stores across India
2 Nights Singapore –Port Klang –Singapore
4 Night Keelung – Ishigaki – Naha – High Seas – Keelung
39,000*
17,000*
SUPERSTAR GEMINI 2 Night Keelung – Ishigaki – Keelung
3 Nights Singapore – Penang – Langkawi – Singapore
19,500/-*
25,000*
4 Nights Fremantle (Australia) to Adelaide (Australia)
1 Night Hong Kong – Haikou
34,000*
8,000*
SUPERSTAR AQUARIUS
2 Night Haikou – Halong Bay – Haikou
16,000*
3 Night Haikou – Danang – Hue – Haikou
SUPERSTAR VIRGO
21,000*
SUPERSTAR LIBRA
Travel Tours invites you to have a blast of a holiday this November. Star Cruise Fleet are ready to sail around some of the most exotic locations in the world. And you can be a part of any of those experiences, sailing along in sheer luxury. The question is, are you ready? For more such unique holidays, explore traveltours.in
INSIDE SPICEJET
NEWS
INDUCTION OF 6 NEW AIRCRAFT HERALDS NETWORK EXPANSION 138
SpiceJet recently unveiled its new winter schedule with 291 daily flights from the current 250 daily flights, adding 10 new sectors, 30 new frequencies and 22 connecting flights. The airline also announced the induction of six new aircraft to its existing fleet strength in the next 30 days. Among the newly added sectors, those effective from November 15, 2015, are Kozhikode–Dubai and Amritsar–Dubai routes, while the flights for Ahmedabad–Goa, Mumbai–
Varanasi, and Varanasi–Hyderabad commenced from October 25, 2015. The airline has reinforced its frequencies on multiple routes such as Mumbai–Chennai, Delhi–Chennai, Goa–Mumbai, Delhi–Kolkata, Kolkata– Agartala, Mumbai–Kochi, Hyderabad– Mumbai, and Chennai–Madurai amongst many others. New onward connections added include Pune–Srinagar, Delhi–Madurai, Mumbai–Madurai and Ahmedabad– Coimbatore, among others.
SPICEJET COMMENCES OPERATIONS AT COMMON USER TERMINAL, CHENNAI
SpiceJet announced the launch of operations in ‘Common User Terminal’ (CUT) provided by the Airport Authority of India in Chennai. It is the first and the only airline in Indian aviation to use this terminal for its November 2015 | www.spiceroutemag.com
cargo operations from Chennai. The airline will engage its Boeing 737 and Bombardier Q400s to provide the service that is currently available in Mumbai, Delhi and few other airports within its domestic network. Customers can now avail cargo services at this terminal to send parcels and courier packets by air, instead of going in search of airline offices to book the cargo. Moreover, the common user facility would help in centralising the movement of domestic cargo and standardising the cost.
SPICEJET PARTNERS WITH DELHI DYNAMOS FOR ISL 2015 Hero Indian Super League is India's unrivalled football championship. SpiceJet is the Official Airline Partner of the Delhi Dynamos team this year. The league is co-promoted by IMG-Reliance (joint venture between IMG & Reliance Industries), Star India and supported by the All India Football Federation (AIFF). India’s leading industrialists and celebrities from sports as well as the Indian film industry have invested in owning the Indian Super League’s eight franchises. These are based out of Chennai, Delhi, Goa, Guwahati, Kochi, Kolkata, Mumbai and Pune. Delhi Dynamos Football Club is the Indian Super League football franchisee of Delhi that began playing in October 2014 during the inaugural season of the Indian Super League. The team is owned and operated by Delhi-based DEN Networks.
INSIDE SPICEJET
SPECIAL DURGA PUJA TREAT FOR SPICEJET FLIERS SpiceJet, an airline that has always been at the forefront to offer a warm festive experience onboard and on ground, kept their passengers engaged on the occasion of Durga Puja this year. During the festival, known as one of the most spectacular festivals of India, the airline had two lady crew members of the operating cabin crew dressed in traditional Bengali ‘laal paar’ sarees (white sarees with red border) on select outbound flights from Kolkata. The
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‘Dhak music’, which has a strong nostalgic value attached, was played on all flights operating to and from
Kolkata between October 20-23, 2015. The airline even served a traditional Bengali in-flight menu available only on flights departing Kolkata. Served during the period Saptami to Nabami, i.e., October 20-22, passengers enjoyed authentic Bengali cuisine that included dishes such as Narkol Diye Ghoogni, Sita Bhog, Mangsher Chop among others for breakfast, while offering Misti Bengali Pulao, Kasha Murgi, and Phulkopi Karaisuti Diye Moong Dal for lunch.
DIRECT FLIGHTS TO DUBAI LOAD FROM AMRITSAR AND FACTOR KOZHIKODE ANNOUNCED HITS 93%; SPICEJET WINS 'BEST AIRLINE' AWARD Operations of direct flights to Dubai from the cities of Amritsar and Kozhikode (Calicut) will commence from November 15, 2015, and bookings for tickets are open now. To celebrate the launch, the airline is offering tickets at an introductory fare of `4,999/- all-in one way between
Kozhikode-Dubai and Amritsar–Dubai. While SpiceJet will operate daily flights on the Kozhikode–Dubai route, flights on the Amritsar–Dubai route will be operated on all days except Saturdays. SpiceJet will be deploying its Boeing 737NG aircraft on the newly launched routes.
SPICEJET’S OTP IMPROVES IN SEPTEMBER Over the previous months, SpiceJet has significantly improved its On-Time Performance (OTP). For the month of September, the airline's OTP stood at 79% and 85% for arrival and departure, respectively.
November 2015 | www.spiceroutemag.com
SpiceJet achieved the highest Passenger Load Factor (PLF) again for September, as per the DGCA statistics, that stood at 93%. This is the sixth month in a row the airline has topped the charts in terms of PLF. It is also the fifth consecutive month SpiceJet has maintained a PLF of over 90%, a feat unparalleled among its peers. Recently, the airline was honoured as the ‘Best Airline’ by West India Travel Awards. The awards were presented to achievers from different segments of the travel industry in West India, such as Aviation, Travel Agents, Hotels and Resorts, etc.
INSIDE SPICEJET
ST
RS OF
This month, we celebrate a few shining stars from various CABIN CREW
SNEHA THAKUR
OWEZ CHIPPA
VIKRAM DANGE
Customer appreciation: The team was extremely polite and Sneha was very helpful and friendly. The crew was fantastic and well spoken.
Customer appreciation: On a recent flight from Varanasi to Delhi, Owez came across as a very humble crew member, whose attitude towards service was exemplary.
Customer appreciation: On my recent travel with SpiceJet from Delhi to Mumbai, I was happy with the entire experience. Vikram is well groomed with a pleasing personality. We love SpiceJet!
Experience with SpiceJet: I never wanted my life to be monotonous. That’s why I decided to become a cabin crew. SpiceJet helped me start my aviation career and with the support of my superiors, I am determined to scale heights.
Experience with SpiceJet: I couldn’t have asked for a more enjoyable time than I have with SpiceJet. I feel so lucky to be a part of this company with its homely feeling, yet organised work atmosphere and wonderful colleagues.
Delhi
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Experience with SpiceJet: I have been with SpiceJet for three years, and it’s been a great experience. Everyday brings new challenges. I was recently commended by a customer, and it feels nice when someone appreciates you for your efforts.
Hyderabad
RAHUL DATA
RAJNEESH KUMAR SINGH
Internal appreciation: Rahul Data is an excellent and dedicated performer. He knows his responsibilities and excels in every situation.
Internal appreciation: Rajneesh is an efficient team worker, forthcoming and always up for a challenge.
ADMIN
Gurgaon
November 2015 | www.spiceroutemag.com
Delhi
Experience with SpiceJet: I have been with SpiceJet for more than four years and I’m grateful to my seniors who have been my mentors. SpiceJet is a great airline to work with, and it provides a good working environment with intense learning opportunities.
Gurgaon
Experience with SpiceJet: I've completed three years with SpiceJet and the airline has given me great exposure to enhance my skill set. There have been a number of good memories over the last three years, but the most memorable was when SpiceJet organised a trip for underprivileged children from Delhi to Goa.
SPICEJET departments that keep SpiceJet's banner flying high. C AT E R I N G
V. MANOHAR
M. VELAPIRAN
Internal appreciation: Manohar is a hard working staff member who is always ready to take on any challenge. Always smiling, he is a team player, dedicated and supportive towards his colleagues.
Internal appreciation: Known to his team mates as Lara, Velapiran is fully dedicated to his work. He ensures quality output and goes the extra mile to achieve perfection. His jolly nature earns him credit across network.
Chennai
Bengaluru
Experience with SpiceJet: I started my career in SpiceJet seven years back and I cherish every moment of it. My passion for working with this airline has only grown with time. My colleagues and seniors have been a source of strength for me.
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PRAKHAR MISHRA
SAVITA BISHT
RAHUL JAICHANDRA
Internal appreciation: We are pleased to have Prakhar with us. It is always a pleasure to work with him. He constantly delivers results for the betterment of the company. He is indeed an asset to the team.
Internal appreciation: We appreciate Savita’s contribution in managing her operational responsibilities. She is dedicated towards her work where she exceeds expectations.
Internal appreciation: We appreciate his outstanding performance in managing the crew rosters. His work has helped the team to achieve the common organisational objectives.
Experience with SpiceJet: I’ve been with SpiceJet for over five years and this is one of the best organisations to be a part of. I would like to thank my seniors & colleagues for their support.
Experience with SpiceJet: I have been working with SpiceJet since 2008. My experience with SpiceJet gets better each day. Here, I strive to achieve higher standards in my work. It is always nice to be appreciated. This is MY jet fuel!
Delhi
ROSTERING
Experience with SpiceJet: I joined SpiceJet in 2012. I am proud of the work I do here, and keen to relentlessly work hard for the airline. I am a proud SpiceJetter today and will remain so.
Delhi
Delhi
Experience with SpiceJet: I joined SpiceJet in 2011, and it’s been a great learning experience. Though I entered as a fresher in the aviation industry, but with the help and support of my team members, learning and working became very smooth.
INSIDE SPICEJET
WE LOVE SPICEJET
The eight SpiceJet employees who have been featured on the covers of this month's issue share their experiences with the airline. Bhumika Patel,
Kush Sharma,
Lavi Baliyan,
Harikrishna V,
Cover shoot frenzy... It feels great to be a part of Spiceroute's cover shoot. I will cherish this moment throughout my life and cannot thank SpiceJet enough for giving me this unique opportunity.
Cover shoot frenzy... I am delighted and grateful for being chosen as a part of this cover shoot. This is my first professional photo shoot, so I was a little nervous, yet enthusiastic.
Cover shoot frenzy... Being a part of the cover shoot left me super excited! What a great opportunity to be featured in the in-flight magazine.
Cover shoot frenzy... I have always been open to new experiences, and to be given a chance to represent SpiceJet is always an honour.
My journey so far... I have been with the airline for over two years, and it's been a great journey so far. This is a friendly organisation to work with.
My journey so far... It has been four wonderful years of experience and learning. Being with SpiceJet makes me feel at home because our seniors always support us.
Check crew, Ahmedabad
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Best part about my work... Being able to interact and meet different people from across India is the best part. Working with SpiceJet has taught me a lot of things and made me the person I am today.
November 2015 | www.spiceroutemag.com
Cabin crew in-charge, Delhi
Best part about my work... The best thing is to see the smile on the faces of our passengers. Happy customers turn out to be our achievement in a true sense.
Cabin crew in-charge, Delhi
My journey so far... I am a proud member of the SpiceJet family since the past five years. It has been an exciting experience and I've got immense opportunities to grow professionally and hone my skills. Best part about my work... It has to be travelling! It is the best thing in the world to have a job that provides me an opportunity to travel to new destinations and explore different cultures.
Customer Service Executive, Kochi
My journey so far... I have been working with this company for the past one year and thanks to my superiors and colleagues, I have learnt a lot and have received first hand experiences regarding many of the procedures. I'm a SpiceJetter for life! Best part about my work... I like the exposure that is offered here to the employees, the way knowledge is imparted with great clarity and also the amiable working atmosphere.
Taherin Shaikh,
Customer Service Executive, Goa
Customer Service Executive, Chandigarh
Karamveer Kaur,
Kaveri Priyadarshee,
Nelson Reddy,
Cover shoot frenzy... I am honoured to be featured on the cover of our in-flight magazine. It's a great feeling to represent my company to the world. Thank you SpiceJet for this wonderful opportunity.
Cover shoot frenzy... I'm very lucky to be a part of Spiceroute's cover shoot. A first-ever professional photo shoot for me, this experience will be cherished forever.
Cover shoot frenzy... I am thankful to SpiceJet for giving me this enviable opportunity to be a part of Spiceroute's cover shoot. I'm overwhelmed!
Cover shoot frenzy... No words can describe how it feels to be a part of the Spiceroute cover shoot. To sum it up - it's awesome! We have always seen our colleagues on the cover and finally our turn has come. It feels great.
My journey so far... I have been here for the last two years and am lucky to be a part of such a supportive management team. I'm happy when passengers are ecstatic with their experience. Best part about my work... Working with SpiceJet has helped me to explore the real me! A recipe of confidence with a cheerful smile, mixed with friendly attitude and topped with excellent etiquettes make SpiceJet different from others.
My journey so far... I joined the airline this year, and already had such great experiences. Being associated with such a glamourous aspect of SpiceJet is another experience. Best part about my work... I am very much passionate about my job and it's been a great experience to interact with people from different walks of life on a daily basis. With SpiceJet, I get a chance to learn something new everyday.
Check crew, Kolkata
My journey so far... My experience with SpiceJet has been amazing through the past five years. SpiceJet has moulded me into what I am today. I've grown confident with every flight and now I'm a Check Crew. It's a big achievement. Best part about my work... Our job is not monotonous as we have something new to share everyday. It's like reading a new chapter and learning from it. I look forward to have a long association with SpiceJet!
Cabin crew in-charge, Hyderabad
My journey so far... I have been with SpiceJet for nearly three years. My seniors always support me and my colleagues make work such a fun place to be in. I love this airline, and am determined to exceed my best. Best part about my work... SpiceJet is an airline that has a heart. There is huge scope of growth. Be it a photo shoot, cricket matches, special flights or festive dances, we've done it all!
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domestic international effective from 15th November, 2015
Routemap Flight schedules are subject to regulatory approvals and change. Map not to scale, graphic representation only. Content as on 25th October, 2015.
India connects with SpiceJet
Nanded
INSIDE SPICEJET
SPICEJET ADD-ONS Know more about SpiceJet's innovative products & services Seat Selection
Domestic pricing
SpiceMax* Seat (on Q400 Aircraft)
`500/-
same as domestic
`400/-
SpiceMax Seat (on Boeing/Airbus Aircraft)
`1000/-
same as domestic
`900/-
SpiceMax Seats (Non Reclining on Boeing/Airbus Aircraft)
`900/-
same as domestic
`800/-
`300/- (ahead of exit row window or aisle)
same as domestic
Free
`100/- (Ahead of exit row middle seats)
same as domestic
Free
`150/- (behind exit row window or aisle)
same as domestic
Free
`75/- (behind exit row middle seats)
same as domestic
Free
`200/- (front half of cabin window or aisle)
same as domestic
Free
`100/- (rear half of cabin window or aisle)
same as domestic
Free
Preferred Seats - on Boeing/Airbus Aircraft
148
Preferred Seats - on Q400 aircraft
International pricing
SpiceFlex Customers
Pre-book excess baggage 5 kgs
`900/-
`1850/-
10 kgs
`1,600/-
`3700/-
15 kgs
`2,250/-
NA
20 kgs
`3,000/-
NA
30 kgs
`3,750/-
NA
Priority Check-In
`200/-
`300/-
1 Bag
`100/-
NA
2 Bags
`200/-
NA
3 Bags
`300/-
NA
Bag Out First
Carry More Onboard (free allowance 7 kg; buy up to 5 kg more) Pre-book
`250/- per kg
same as domestic
At check-in
`300/- per kg
same as domestic
At boarding gate
`500/- per kg
same as domestic
My Flexi Plan
`899/-
`1099/-
Hand Baggage Only Fare - Charge at Airport Fare type change fee if checking-in bag at airport after purchasing HBO fare
Up to 15 Kgs - `400/-
Spice Cake
`750/-
NA `800/-
*SpiceMAX seats offer significantly more legroom, plus complimentary meal, priority check-in, priority boarding (at aerobridge gates), and priority baggage handling **NA stands for ‘not available’ *The above mentioned prices and features are accurate as at the time of magazine printing, and are subject to change without prior notice
November 2015 | www.spiceroutemag.com
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INSIDE SPICEJET
Boeing 737 - 700/800/900ER Series Boeing 737 of - 700/800/900ER Series Interior arrangement Boeing 737 - 700 (149 Passengers) Row 1 -31
Row 1 -26 Entry / Exit
Emergency Exit
Entry / Exit
Emergency Exit
Entry / Exit
Entry / Exit
Emergency Exit
Entry / Exit
Entry / Exit
Emergency Exit
Entry / Exit
Entry / Exit
Interior arrangement of Boeing 737 - 700 (149 Passengers) Row 1 -31
Row 1 -26
150
Row 1 -20
Row 1 -20
BOEING 737-700
Passengers
149 (single class configuration) BOEING 737-700 Passengers Engines CFM56-7B22/3 149 (single classthrust) configuration) (maximum (22,000 lbs) Engines CFM56-7B22/3 20500 kg (maximum thrust) (22,000 lbs)
BOEING 737-800
186
BOEING 737-900 ER
BOMBARDIER Q400
212
BOEING 737-900 ER
BOMBARDIER Q400
CFMI CFM56-7B26 212 (26,300 lbs) CFMI20500kg CFM56-7B26 (26,300 lbs) 75749 kg 20500kg 5000 km 75749 0.79 M (840kg km/h)
PW 78 150 A (4580 SHP)
61988 kg 20500 kg 6200 km 61988 kgkm/h) 0.79 M (840
CFM56-7B24/26 186 (24,200lbs/26,300 lbs) CFM56-7B24/26 20500kg (24,200lbs/26,300 lbs) 70987/79015kg 20500kg 5,600 km 70987/79015kg 0.79 M (840 km/h)
6200 km 8 years 0.79 M (840 km/h) 2 8 years
5,600 km 5 years 0.79 M (840 km/h) 16 5 years
5000 km 7 years 0.79 M (840 km/h) 04 7 years
Speed unit M denotes Mach Number. 1 Mach is equal to the speed of sound. 2
BOEING 737-700
16
04
112 ft 7 in (34.3m) BOEING 737-700 117 ft 5 in (35.7m) 112 ft 7 in (34.3m) 110 ft 4 in (33.6m) 117 ft 5 in (35.7m) 41 ft 2 in (12.5m) 110 ft 4 in (33.6m) 11 ft 7 in (3.53m) 41 ft 2 in (12.5m) 11 ft 7 in (3.53m)
PW 150 5318 kgA (4580 SHP) 29,257kg 5318 kg 2000 km 29,257kg 666 km/h 2000 km 3.3 years 666 km/h 14
3.3 years
BOEING 737-800
BOEING 737-900 ER
14 BOMBARDIER Q400
BOEING 737-800
BOEING 737-900 ER
93 ft 3 in (28.42m) BOMBARDIER Q400
Speed unit M denotes Mach Number. 1 Mach is equal to the speed of sound.
November 2015 | www.spiceroutemag.com
78
BOEING 737-800
93 ft 3 in (28.42m) 107 ft 9 in (32.83m) 24 ft 4 in (8.34m) 107 ft 9 in (32.83m) 8 ft 2 in (2.49m) 24 ft 4 in (8.34m) 8 ft 2 in (2.49m)
ADVERTORIAL
FENFURO, an antidote to the endemic Diabetes
D
iabetes in India has reached an endemic stage with about 62 million people suffering from this debilitating disease. This chronic and deadly disease is fast spreading its tentacles and is expected to affect over 100 million people in India by 2030.
Types of Diabetes
There are three types of diabetes: Type1, Type 2 and Gestational diabetes. The large section of diabetics is suffering from Type 2 diabetes that can be prevented or delayed with a healthy way of life.
Symptoms
The common symptoms of diabetes are increased urination, weight loss, increased thirst, increased hunger, fatigue, headache, itchy skin, nausea and delayed healing of wounds.
Indians are at a high risk
Genetic coding, cultural and social setup & changing lifestyle are the major contributors to the spread of diabetes in India. Indian genes make them 4 times more susceptible to diabetes as compared to Europeans. Moreover, a number of factors in combination make Indians highly susceptible to Diabetes.
Indian diet is rich in carbohydrates and saturated fats, which leads to obesity and thus diabetes. The changing lifestyle of youngsters and increase in consumption of fast food is adding to the already grave problem.
Treatment of Diabetes
Treatment for diabetes mellitus is chosen on the basis of its type and complications. The treatments are individualized by the duration of diabetes, age/life expectancy, comorbidity, known cardiovascular diseases or advanced microvascular diseases and hypoglycemia awareness.
Fenfuro, the natural way to manage diabetes
According to a study by Frost and Sullivan, people are moving towards nutraceuticals to combat the prevalence of Diabetes. FENFUROTM is a rst of its kind product derived from single herb with proven results for maintaining blood sugar levels. FENFUROTM contains a rich variety of saponins and avonoids. All of these substances are known to lower blood lipid level and play valuable role in insulin promotion and glucose regulation. It promotes insulin secretion and inhibits the rise of blood glucose.
A clinical evaluation of FENFURO was carried out on a total of 154 Type 2 diabetics for a period of 3 months, to determine its safety and efcacy. The patients showed a signicant decrease in HbA1C levels as compared to respective baseline value. 83% of the patients reported decrease in fasting sugar levels and 89% in PP sugar levels. 48.8% of the patients reported reduced dosage of anti-diabetic therapy after regularly taking Fenfuro. Diabetes can suck the juice out of life. Let’s not give it the power to ruin our lives. Let’s ght it with exercise, healthy diet and FENFURO.
For more information, call +91 9915002390, +91 7814122220 or visit www.fenfuro.com
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FARH AN AK H TAR FOR www.lifestylestores.com
BY
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R.N.I No: DELENG/2015/63282