Spiceroute April 2013 by Maxposure Media Group India Pvt Ltd

Volume VII Issue IV April 2013

www.spiceroutemag.com

The inflight magazine of SpiceJet

GROUP

Gourmet Goa

Exotic flavours In conversation

Jeffrey Archer Jyoti Randhawa

Sharjah

Much more than cricket

Spreading wings Dear SpiceJetters, A warm welcome to all the passengers flying with SpiceJet. As exams are now over, it’s time to escape and enjoy a break from the heat. And with our network of 45 domestic and eight international destinations, we offer you a wide range of destinations for your holiday. At SpiceJet, we are overwhelmed by your continuous patronage and support. This has prompted us to add more destinations both domestically and internationally. We recently added Sharjah on our international map and have connected it with Lucknow and Varanasi through direct flights from both these cities. With this we have also added the Delhi – Lucknow – Delhi flights. For more information, you can check the schedule in the magazine or log on to our website www.spicejet.com. To tickle your taste buds, we offer you a wide choice of vegetarian and non-vegetarian options. Passengers can also place their orders online. As you fly with us, Spiceroute, the monthly in-flight magazine brings you interesting reads on travel, food and lifestyle. The cover story brings you Sharjah as a travel destination. We also bring you articles on Lucknow and Rishikesh besides interesting features on some famous personalities. For all this and much more do read your copy of Spiceroute. Feel free to write in to us at custrelations@spicejet.com Happy flying!

Kalanithi Maran Chairman

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COO & Publisher: Vikas Johari CEO & Managing Director: Prakash Johari CFO: Kuldip Singh Editor: Florina Soren Information: info@maxposure.in Submissions: editor@maxposure.in Advertising: sales@maxposure.in Accounts: accounts@maxposure.in Careers: hr@maxposure.in E-mail: spiceroute@maxposure.in MaXposure Media Group India Pvt. Ltd. Head Office Unit No F2b ( Second Floor), Mira Corporate Suites, Plot No . 1 & 2, Ishwar Nagar, Mathura Road, New Delhi -110065 Tel: 91.11.43011111, Fax: 91.11.43011199 West | Mumbai | Time Square Building, 3rd floor, Western Express Highway, Andheri (E),Mumbai-400069, Tel: 91.22.61991111, Fax: 91.22.61991115 Ahmedabad | Office No. 4, Meagabyte Business Centre, Top Floor, Navrang Building, Opp Parth Complex, Swastik Cross Road, CG Road, Navranpura, Ahmedabad - 380015, Tel: 91.79.40193627 Indore | 7/1, 409, 4th Floor, Ratan Mani Complex, Opposite Inter Star Showroom, New Palasia, Indore - 452001, Tel: 91.731.4248881 East | Kolkata | DPS Corporate Club, 1st Floor, 9A Sebak Baidya Street, Kolkata– 700029, Tel: 9133.40680111 Raipur | Magnetto Offizo, Office No.546, 5th Floor, Magnetto The Mall, G.E.Road, Labhandi, Raipur. Tel: 91.771.4264571 South | Bangaluru |1010 A Wing,10th Floor, Mittal Towers, M.G. Road, Bangaluru-560001, Karnataka, India, Tel: 91.80.40921037-38, Fax: 91.80.41510657 Hyderabad | 1-11-222/2 Ground Floor, Street No.4, Gurumurthy lane, Begumpet, Hyderabad-500 016, Tel: 91.40.40021545 Chennai | FL 9, Alsa Mall, First Floor, 149, Montieth Road, Egmore, Chennai-600008, Tel: 91.44.42015685, Fax: 91.44.42015684 International Sales Offices EUROPE : London | Seraphine Money | IMM International 10 Denmark Street, London WC2H 8LS- UK Tel: +44 20 3301 4900, Fax: + 44 20 7240 3258 Mob: +44 777 459 8220 France l Nicolas Devos | IMM International C/O 80 Rue Montmartre75002 PARIS - FRANCE , Tél: +33 (0)1 40 13 79 06, Fax: +33 (0)1 40 13 00 33, www.imm-international.com Switzerland | Nathalie DupuY | IMM International CHOffice Director IMM International Rue Tabazan, 91204 Genève Tel: +41(0)22 310 80 51, Mob: +41(0)78 95 25 900 Email:n.dupuy@imm-international.com Italy | Sandra Bonini | G+J International Sales Italy Srl Via Benedetto Marcello,4, 20124 Mailand, Italy Tel: +3902.20526722, E-Mail: bonini.sandra@guj.de Germany | Claudia Scheil | Gruner +Jahr AG & Co KG Am Baumwall 11,20459 Hamburg, Germany Tel: +49 40 3703 2944, E-Mail: scheil.claudia@guj.de

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Spiceroute MAGAZINE. Printed AND PUBLISHED BY VIKAS JOHARI ON BEHALF OF MAXPOSURE MEDIA GROUP (INDIA) PVT. LTD. (MMGipl) for spicejet ltd. AND PUBLISHED AT MMGipl, Unit No F2b ( Second Floor), Mira Corporate Suites, Plot No . 1 & 2, Ishwar Nagar, Mathura Road, New Delhi -110065, india. Spiceroute MAGAZINE is published monthly. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. THE WRITING, ARTWORK AND/OR PHOTOGRAPHY CONTAINED HEREIN MAY NOT BE USED OR REPRODUCED WITHOUT THE EXPRESS WRITTEN PERMISSION OF MMGipl. MMGipl DOES NOT ASSUME RESPONSIBILITY FOR LOSS OR DAMAGE OF UNSOLICITED PRODUCTS, MANUSCRIPTS, PHOTOGRAPHS, ARTWORK, TRANSPARENCIES OR OTHER MATERIALS. The views expressed in the magazine are not necessarily those of the publisher or SpiceJet. All efforts have been made while compiling the content of this magazine, but we assume no responsibility for the effects arising there from. MMGipl DOES NOT ASSUME ANY LIABILITY FOR SERVICES OR PRODUCTS ADVERTISED HEREIN. FOR INQUIRIES | MMGipl TEL: +91.11.43011111, www.Spicejet.com, www. maxposure.in

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April 2013 4 www.spiceroutemag.com

Contents 14 HOT DATES April happenings across SpiceJet network

Cover story 28

splendid sharjah The city has much more beyond cricket

36 City guide 48 hours in lucknow Of history and hospitality

46 Quick getaway HIDDEN BEAUTIES Temples from yesteryears

Mountain Bliss Unexplored South Sikkim

62 Theme holiday Date with Ganges Explore Rishikesh

WodEyar Touch The magnificient Bangalore Palace

APRIL 2013 72 Festive Flavour Celebrating spring Cultural festivals this April

80 Spice trail Forever Green Add taste to your food with coriander

84 Gourmet delight Goan flavours Indigenous spices that offer great taste

Top summer foods Fruits & veggies to keep you cool

SpiceJet now offers over 150 connections on its existing network For details log on to www.spicejet.com April 2013 6 www.spiceroutemag.com

Contents 98 In Conversation Lord of the yarn Jeffrey Archer among his Indian fans

104

154

travel buzz

Two’s Company Musicians and their take

GADGETS

158

110

FilmS

Golfer par excellence Jyoti Randhawa as he gets back to his game

160

BOOKS

114 Glam world

166

Cut&Colour Your guide for a perfect cut

Games

172

120

Predictions

TRailblazers of tomorrow Cars that we can only dream of

178

SPICEJET DESTINATIONS

126 Well-being

190

10 tips to drop kilos Shed that extra weight the easy way

SPICEJET ROUTE MAP

191

Fleet Guide

134 Culture canvas food for thought Now books on your tablet

142

time for revival Old beauties in contemporary look

192

SPICEJET SCHEDULE

202

SPICEJET OFFICES

204

SPICE BITES

146 Good Samaritans give us an ear A helping hand for the hearing impaired

162 Kids’ corner go out and play Head outdoors

168 ZOOM IN enchanting beauty Arunachal Pradesh welcomes with hills and lakes

SpiceJet now offers over 150 connections on its existing network For details log on to www.spicejet.com April 2013 8 www.spiceroutemag.com

Alstone International E: info@alstoneindia.com • www.alstoneindia.com Toll Free No. 1800-1233123 • SMS ACP TO 56161 Branch Offices: Ahmedabad • Bangalore • Chennai • Delhi • Hyderabad • Indore Kochi • Kolkatta • Lucknow • Mumbai • Noida • Pune • Ranchi

Spice mail

Letters from the

SpiceJet family Value for money I am a regular flyer and am very happy with the services offered by SpiceJet. The airline offers great value for money. However, the online booking facility can improve a little. B Surya Shive

Quick check-in The check-in process at SpiceJet is very smooth and hassle-free. I am also very impressed by the positive attitude of the SpiceJet staff. Keep up the good work. Mardik Panchal Pune

April 2013 12 www.spiceroutemag.com

Friendly staff It is a pleasure flying with SpiceJet as the staff is always very helpful and friendly. Cheers to the SpiceJet team. Kevin Srinagar

HOT DATES

1 Art y affair Afro Adanma-A group art exhibition by Thomas Ongonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ga, Michael Soi, Edward Orato and Dennis Muragiri will be on at the Open Palm Court, India Habitat Centre, Lodhi Road, New Delhi. The show will be on till April 4.

6 World peace The Peace Pad Yatra in Sri Lanka starting from Colombo will traverse from south to north Sri Lanka and reach Jaffna on April 6. Be a part of it and promote world peace.

3 Cricket mania Catch the opening match of IPL Season 6 between Kolkata Knight Riders and Delhi Daredevils on April 3 at Eden Gardens, Kolkata. April 2013 14 www.spiceroutemag.com

10 Puppet festival The 11th Ishara International Puppet Festival will be on at the Tagore Theatre, Chandigarh from April 7-16.

APRIL

22 Dancing dolls Children who love dancing have something to keep them busy. The Kids Summer Camp 2013: Latin American Dancing Workshop is on between April 22-26. Venue: 89, Bishop Garden Street, Greenways Road, R.A.Purum, Chennai

12 Musical tribute For all who love the great music maestro Padma Vibhushan Pandit Hariprasad Chaurasia, PVR is releasing a special documentary-Bansuri Guru. The show will be on at PVR, Pune besides other theatres nation-wide.

13 Baisakhi Baisakhi the harvest festival is celebrated with a great deal of feasting, bhangra dance, folk music, and fairs. Visit Amritsar to get the feel of this colourful festival.

Travel buzz

Travel news 1. Destination Dubai

2. VIA Canada

Dubai International Airport ferried a record number of over 5.5 million passengers in January 2013. Passenger traffic rose 14.6 per cent to 5,559,760 in the month, up from 4,852,139 in the same month last year. Aircraft movements were 31,332 in January 2013, climbing 5.6 per cent from 29,680 movements in January 2012. Most markets were boosted in January by holiday traffic as well as visitors to the Dubai Shopping Festival. Regionally, South America remained the fastest-expanding market in terms of percentage growth (23.7 per cent), followed by the GCC (21.8 per cent), Australasia (21.3 per cent) and North America (20.8 per cent). The Middle East was the only region that recorded fewer visitors.

VIA Rail Canada, which operates the national passenger rail service on behalf of the government of Canada, announced its foray into the Indian market and introduced exotic train journeys for Indian visitors. The announcement is part of VIA Rail’s plan to create awareness about its services in India in recognition of India’s increasing significance as a major source of potential travellers to the country. Delegates from VIA Rail Canada, led by Pierre Santoni, senior director, Domestic and International Sales, shared strategic insights into their plan for engaging the Indian outbound market. The national passenger rail service showcased a vast portfolio of exotic destinations that one can visit while travelling on VIA Rail. As part of the India approach, it will network with top travel agents in the market and conduct educational workshops in Delhi and Mumbai.

April 2013 16 www.spiceroutemag.com

3 3. Disney Festival Disney Festival planners will boost the floral fun and plant power to a whole new level during the 20th Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival presented by HGTV at Walt Disney World Resort, Florida, on till May 19. Whimsical Disney topiary spectacles and sweeping garden landscapes set the colourful scene this year for new festival additions that include food-and-beverage Garden Marketplaces, a circus-like “Land of Oz” play area and nighttime illuminated gardens. Ranging from smokehouse barbecue and shrimp with grits and Zellwood corn to sweet “frushi” made with fresh fruits and coconut rice, chefs are perfecting all the menus. Garden Marketplace serves refreshing libations with a kick, such as Hot Sun Tomato Wine from Florida Orange Groves Winery and Dole Whip with Spiced Rum, as well as nonalcoholic drinks such as Frozen Desert, Violet Lemonade and Wild Berry Slush. The Land of Oz Garden, an interactive children’s play zone, will feature play systems adorned with giant flowers and designed to stretch the imagination as well as muscle of kids.

Travel buzz

4. New China Tourism logo A new logo for China Tourism, featuring four modern Chinese characters that together signify Beautiful China, was inaugurated early this year. A Chinese character in Oracle style – meaning ‘travel’ – is juxtaposed with the two English words. The design represents a traditional Chinese seal and denotes the full array of Chinese cultural elements. It also stands for the new image and vision of China Tourism as it faces the world. Tourism is an important element in the bilateral exchange and cooperation between China and India, and serves as an invaluable bridge of friendship and partnership between the two neighbours. In recent years, tourist traffic between the two countries has been on a continuous rise. In 2012, the direct (first-stop) visits 4 from China to India went up to 136,000, an increase of 15.2% over 2011. Visits by Indians to China spiralled to 610,000, an increase of 0.61% over the 2011 figure.

5. This time, cruise in the lap of Alaskan luxury Alaska’s wilderness, wildlife, active glaciers and abundance of awe-inspiring natural wonders have earned it a place on the bucket list of every keen traveler. Those who appreciate the nuances of modern luxury and desire unique travel experiences will love the Alaskan offering of Celebrity Cruises. From April to September this year, this premium cruise line brings 7-night cruise and 10 to 16–Night Alaskan cruise tours aboard the exceptional Celebrity Solstice, Celebrity Millennium and Celebrity Century. Commended for their epicurean delights, these ships bring the best at-sea restaurants to Alaskan waters and impress even the most discerning of travellers with their guest inspired service. The Solstice class ships house the inimitable spa-inspired Aqua class staterooms, a half acre Lawn Club with real grass and the fascinating Hot Glass Show amongst others. With three elegant cruise ships, including the award-winning Celebrity Solstice, over 55 sailings calling on 24 ports and a choice of over 40 land excursions, Celebrity Cruises brings an exciting array of Alaskan cruises and cruise tours this year.

April 2013 18 www.spiceroutemag.com

6. Karnataka showcases arts and crafts at ITB The Karnataka Tourism pavilion at the International Tourismus Borse (ITB), Berlin, attracted lots of attention from people attending the event. In a departure from the normal depiction of the state through pictures, Karnataka Tourism tried a different card by showcasing varied art and crafts items from rural Karnataka. Six pillars depicting Channapatna’s lacquerware, besides painting patterns that showcased styles of Lambani, Bidriware designs, Navalgund dhurries and Kasuti, were showcased in a brightly lit pavilion. Additional Chief Secretary (Tourism) Arvind Jadhav, who led the delegation, said, “By bringing more products, places and experiences to the fore, we are ensuring there are more reasons for people to choose Karnataka over other destinations in India.”

Travel buzz

7. Peace Pad Yatra Live to Love, a global humanitarian initiative, is conducting a month-long Peace Pad Yatra aimed at spreading the message of peace, harmony, goodwill and respect for the environment. The Pad Yatra, which started on March 6, will travel from south to north covering a distance of about 500 kilometres - before culminating at Jaffna on April 6. Gyalwang Drukpa, a recipient of the United Nations Millennium Develop Goals Honour and NDTV-Toyota Green Hero Award in India, is leading 500 participants from India, Nepal, Bhutan, and 16 other countries on this walkathon. Michelle Yeoh and Alec Baldwin are among the global celebrities taking part in the journey, which will visit holy sites such as Kataragama, Colombo, Sri Pada, Kandy, Matale, Dumbula, Sigiriya, Polonnaruwa and Anuradhapura. On previous foot journeys the participants had picked up over one tonne of non-biodegradable waste and educated people on the importance of keeping the environment clean and green for future generations.

8 8. Spain guide for Indian travellers Travelling to the beautiful country of Spain is now going to be easy for the Indian travellers. Lonely Planet recently launched ‘Spain for the Indian Traveller’, its official travel guide customized for the Indian traveller at an event held at the Embassy of Spain, New Delhi. The travel guide was unveiled by H.E. Gustavo de Aristegui, Ambassador of Spain and Mr. Sesh Seshadri, GM of Lonely Planet India.

Lonely Planet first entered the Indian market in September 2012 with its first official locally produced travel guides for ten international destinations for the Indian traveller. The travel guides for each country have been customized to suit the Indian travellers’ needs and sensibilities. The evening was attended by eminent dignitaries from the airlines and media industry and glitterati. Spain for the Indian Traveller has been written by Indian authors living in Spain who are aware of Indian travellers’ needs. The guides ensure travellers discover the best of a destination and return with great stories to share. Ideal both for planning and when in a country or city, the guides contain vital travel information including the must-see sights, shopping locations, Indian restaurants and local food recommendations, family ideas, itineraries and more. Lonely Planet also recently launched its new series of Indian travel guides -‘Short Escapes.’ The guides detail short trips from Delhi, Mumbai and Bengaluru. The Short Escapes series is aimed at city-dwellers in Bengaluru, Delhi and Mumbai, who are looking for a quick break from the city.

April 2013 20 www.spiceroutemag.com

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Travel buzz

9. Munich Spring Festival Munich is celebrating its 49th Frühlingsfest (spring festival, April 16 - May 2) this year on the famous Theresienwiese, the home of Oktoberfest. The Munich Spring Festival is also popularly known as “Kleine Wiesn” (Little Oktoberfest) or “Kleine Schwester des Oktoberfestes” (Oktoberfest’s Little Sister). The Spring Festival has a big beer tent called the Festhalle Bayernland, which seats about 2,000 people. During the festival, Munich’s favourite Augustiner beer is splashed out from traditional wooden kegs. The festival kicks off with a big parade and Böllerschützen, where aging artillery enthusiasts shoot mini hand-cannons into the air. The first keg is tapped inside the Hippodrom-Festzelt at 4 pm on the opening day to get the beer flowing. There are dozens of rides, including a ferris wheel (Riesenrad), a ghost train (Geisterbahn) and Europe’s longest portable slide, the Münchner Rutschn. There are more than 10 rides designed for younger kids. Tuesdays are special “family days” with reduced prices for the rides.

10. Explore New Zealand Tourism New Zealand has announced an exclusive ‘Explore New Zealand’ programme that offers special discounts to media and travel agents across the world wanting to experience the 100% pure New Zealand experience. The programme involves the participation of over 400 New Zealand tourism operators offering special rates and discounts to card holders, thus making it easier and cheaper for travellers to enjoy the experience.

Every year, over 450 people use the Explore accreditation card to travel independently across New Zealand. The card offers a vast range of products and deals, including rental car offers, accommodation and a wide range of activities. To make it easier for agents and media to travel in partners and groups, the typical discounts on offer are generally in the range of ‘two for the price of one’ or a ‘50% off for cardholders’. The Explore Guide book offers over 400 special discounts and is available online.

Travel buzz

13. Fashion finale

11. Explore Pushkar

12. F&B outlets, spa launched

The holy city of Pushkar is the annual venue for Pushkar Fair, one of the largest cattle fairs in the world. From taking in the breathtaking sunfall at the lake to visiting the ancient Hindu temples or exploring the quaint streets of Pushkar for trinkets, there is a lot that one can explore in and around the ancient city.

The Ramada Chennai Egmore recently announced the launch of its new F & B outlets and Spa at a glittering fashion show attended by the who’s who of the city. Setting the benchmark in Chennai’s entertainment scene, the hotel unveiled Boardwalk, its exclusive roof-top restaurant; Waves, its chic bar-cumlounge; and Eternum, a spa paradise with signature and best-in-its-class therapies.

Pushkar Resorts, a unit of Sewara and one of the foremost resorts in Pushkar, offers a concierge package to its guests for exploring the local nuances of the city. Bohemian in nature, the Pushkar market is famed for its wholesale outlets that sell varied and interesting products ranging from leather goods to traditional Rajasthani jewellery, clothes and antiques. The market is known for its patchwork and leather products. A paradise for those looking for interesting souvenirs, roaming the quaint lanes of Pushkar is the perfect way to get a sense of the city’s chaotic order. The resort offers an authentic and memorable Sewara experience with special qawalli nights, which can be arranged on request. Singing folklore and reciting poetry, the local qawals fill the air with soulful music, ideal for a relaxed barbeque evening alongside the pool. The hotel can also arrange for cycle routes, hikes up to the Savitri Temple on top of Ratnigiri hills or a relaxing picnic in orchards that accommodate mango, amla, guava and banana trees.

A fashion show was organised by ace designer Karun Raman at the Boardwalk Restaurant. The oomph quotient of the evening was even more heightened with Rochelle Rao, the Femina Miss India 2012, enthralling the audience with her splendid anchoring skills. Prakash Chandran, general manager, said, “We are extremely pleased to unveil the new restaurant, bar-cum-lounge and spa today. The new outlets are a hallmark of Ramada’s worldclass hospitality, and are sure to set the benchmark in the city’s entertainment scene. Each outlet has been designed, keeping in mind the preferences of the people of this city. From the best view of the city to the finest food, ambience and cocktails, Boardwalk and Waves have it all. Our spa has the finest therapies, and is an unparalleled taste of urban elegance and truly rejuvenating experience.” April 2013 24 www.spiceroutemag.com

FDCI, the apex fashion body in India, hosted its WIFW A/W’13 grand finale party at the Shiro Resto Bar. With stalwarts showcasing their designs at the ramp across the five-day event, WIFW AW-2013 closed with the grand finale show as Manish Arora presented his Paris Fashion Week collection in front of a packed audience. The five-day extravaganza bore witness to many designers making their career debut by showcasing serene and versatile designs. Speaking at the finale party, Mr. Sunil Sethi, President of FDCI, said, “It has been an excellent five days of fashion and glamour at WIFW AW 2013. I take this opportunity to thank everyone who has worked towards making this fashion week a grand success”

PROMOTION

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Hilton Garden Inn New Delhi/Saket

Discovering Hilton Garden Inn H

ilton Garden Inn is the mid-priced hotel brand that strives to ensure today’s busy travellers have everything they need to be incredibly productive on the road. With more than 550 hotels worldwide, you are sure to find a hotel at a location of your choice. In India, there are two Hilton Garden Inn hotels in Gurgaon and Saket, New Delhi. Hilton Garden Inn Gurgaon Baani Square is strategically situated near the prime business, commercial and residential hubs and 10 minutes from DLF Cyber City. Hilton Garden Inn New Delhi/ Saket is conveniently located within the DLF Place Mall in Saket, in the heart of South Delhi’s commercial, shopping and recreation districts. A new hotel will open in Trivandrum later this year. An opening in Hanoi, Vietnam, is also upcoming. Hilton Garden Inn endeavours to support each guest on his or her road to success and it starts the moment you walk through the doors. Some of the brand’s signature offerings you can enjoy

at all hotels include complimentary Wi-Fi and 24-hour business centre facilities, and the round-the-clock Pavilion Pantry™ convenience mart. The hotels also feature exciting dining options, swimming pools,fitness centres and conference and banqueting facilities. Whether you stay on business or leisure, the brand’s Satisfaction Promise™ makes sure you’re satisfied or you don’t pay. Sleep Deep At Hilton Garden Inn, the rooms are carefully designed taking your comfort and convenience into consideration. Each room features comfortable beds, crisp linen, hypoallergenic pillows and plush duvets that ensure a good night’s sleep. Other in-room facilities include complimentary Wi-Fi, a refrigerator, iron, and more. Work Smart Those travelling on work can avail of the fully-equipped complimentary Business

Centre that remains open all day and is stocked with office supplies, a colour laser printer and a photocopy machine. Conference and banqueting facilities are available for meetings and social events. Eat Well The India Grill restaurant at Hilton Garden Inn New Delhi/Saket and Glasshouse restaurant at Hilton Garden Inn Gurgaon Baani Square offer delicious fare for breakfast, lunch and dinner. In between meals, these 24-hour restaurants serve light snacks and beverages. The Pavilion Pantry™, open through the day, is stocked with snacks and sundries. Stay Fit Hilton Garden Inn takes care of your fitness needs with a state-of-the-art Fitness Centre. Dive into the swimming pool, available at most locations, after your workout to unwind after a productive day.

CONTA CT DETAILS: For more information, visit www.hgi.com or call Hilton Garden Inn Gurgaon Baani Square (Tel: 91-124-4420000) and Hilton Garden Inn New Delhi/Saket (Tel: 91-11-39191919).

Cover story

Splendid

Sharjah

April 2013 28 www.spiceroutemag.com

With beaches, desert, shopping and more, Sharjah extends much beyond cricket. |

S u bhomi ta

Dha r

or most Indians, Sharjah evokes memories of riveting cricket contests against Pakistan. But there is more to it than being just an erstwhile sporting battleground. Sharjah - one of the seven emirates that make up the United Arab Emirates - has its own charm, and it offers tourists an interesting mix of heritage, shopping, desert and the sea. In addition to Sharjah city, a bustling metropolis, this emirate has three regions on the scenic east coast; Dibba Al Hisn, Khor Fakkan and Kalba.

photo | Sharjah Media Centre

WOR D S

Cover story

In the mid 80’s and 90’s , Sharjah cricket stadium was one of the most popular venues for world cricket Top: One of the several beaches surrounding Sharjah Right: A local market

Heritage & culture Sharjah, which means the rising sun, has a rich history dating back to around 6,000 years, and is a perfect place to travel back in time. With more than 17 museums and 600 mosques, Sharjah was certified by Unesco as the cultural capital of the Arab world in 1998. While you may not have the time to visit all the museums, the Sharjah Archaeology Museum occupies a pride of place and should feature prominently in your must-visit list. One of the famed exhibits at the museum is

The regal Al Hisn Fort located in the heart of the city is also a historic landmark. The former residence of the ruling Qasimi family, the building is now converted to a museum. It gives a rare glimpse of royal living in olden times and also has several historic memorabilia including swords and daggers that were used by the royals.

a gold horse bridle that dates back to 300 BC and was excavated from Mleiha, a place near Sharjah. Mleiha, 20 km from Sharjah, was the site of one of the earliest settlements of the region. From the antiquities of the Stone Age and Bronze Age, you can head back to more contemporary works of arts at the Sharjah Arts area, which houses the Sharjah Art Museum, Sharjah Art Centre and other galleries. The Sharjah Museum of Islamic Civilization has rare Islamic manuscripts as well as items of Arabic art. April 2013 30 www.spiceroutemag.com

The emirate is now home to unique project ‘The Heart of Sharjah’ which aims to restore traditional heritage sites and national landmarks and link them to existing urban facilities. One of the Old Town renovations, which is scheduled for completion this year is rebuilding the Al Shanasiah Souq, a popular market place in the yesteryears.

Leisure & shopping So after your dose of history, get a breathtaking view of the modern city and neighbouring Dubai from the 60-metre tall Etisalat Eye of the Emirates - the largest Ferris wheel in the region - located at Qanat Al Qasba. This is a happening waterfront area with several restaurants and entertainment options along its kilometre-long man-made canal.

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Cover story

SpiceJet now flies to Sharjah from Lucknow, Varanasi See schedule on page192.

Another exciting family entertainment area is the Al Majaz Waterfront, which has the Sharjah fountain. So marvel at the colourful water fountains swaying to the beats of music. Also do take a soothing jaunt on the traditional boats or the abra along the water way and savour the sights of the brightly lit city of Sharjah.

a break from shopping to have a suleimani black lemon tea or mint tea from the next door cafeterias. Other traditional markets include the Old Bazaar, Iranian Bazaar and Sharjah Gold Centre. Sharjah also has glitzy malls such as the Sahara Centre and City Centre, where you can get a fill of all the big global brands.

If you are looking for some retail therapy during your holiday then donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t forget to visit the exquisite Central Market also known as the Blue Souk and the golden-domed Al Majarrah Souk near the Khalid Lagoon. These old markets are a good place to shop for curios, clothes, carpets, and UAE souvenirs. Bargaining is as much part of the charm of shopping in these shops as picking up the right colour and material of the carpets. You can always take

For a glimpse of the flora and fauna of the emirate, visit the Sharjah Aquarium, the Sharjah Natural History & Botanical Museum and the Arabian Wildlife Centre. The Sharjah Aquarium has more than 250 species of marine life from around Sharjah including the reef sharks and sea horses. The Sharjah Natural History & Botanical Museum has interactive exhibits on local history, habitats, plant and animal life, geology and marine life.

The wild side

April 2013 32 www.spiceroutemag.com

Sharjahâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s largest ferris wheel

The Arabian Wildlife Centre is a must-visit for children and adults. Located at the Sharjah Desert Park, it has more than 100 animal species native to the Arabian Peninsula. Keep an eye for the rare Arabian leopard which is fighting a grim battle from extinction and the houbara bustards. There is also a farm next to it, where children can come close to the animals and feed some of them. After this, head off to the desert for a safari. Be prepared to ride the dunes on 4 wheelers driven by specially qualified drivers. Savour the roller coaster ride followed by some dance and entertainment at a Bedouin style camp. Enjoy a sumptuous spread of Arabic food before signing off for the day.

Cover story

Sunny beaches

Below: Central Souq Bottom: A super luxury resort

No trip to Sharjah is complete without soaking in the sun in one of the Arabian Gulf coast beaches. Sharjah has several beaches and beach parks to choose from like the Al Khan Lagoon, Al Khan Beach, Corniche Beach, Hamriyah Lagoon and Khor Fakkan. These are ideal locations for water sports - be it idyllic boating or revving it up in jetskis. Some of these are perfect spots for picnics and barbecue parties in the evenings.

The town of Khor Fakkan, two hours by road from Sharjah is a popular destination surrounded by the Hajjar mountains and a turquoise blue sea. It has some famous diving sites like the Shark Island, Martini Rock and Car Cemetry. In fact, Martini Rock is famous for green sea turtles which swim around rocks. You will need your diving and snorkelling gear to get up close and personal with the rich marine life here. Do pack your binoculars when you travel to Kalba - yet another exciting town close to Sharjah. The Khor Kalba or the Kalba creek has the oldest mangrove forest in the region and is home to some exciting bird life. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a tranquil area with plenty of greenery which makes you forget that you are so close to the desert.

photo | Sharjah Media Centre

Cricket mania

Must Visits

Dubai: 14km from Sharjah, it is a great shopping destination Ras Al Khaimah: 76km from Sharjah, it has several beach resorts Fujairah: 96km from Sharjah, known for Hajjar mountains and beaches Al Ain: 126km from Sharjah, it is known as the garden city Abu Dhabi: The capital of UAE, the city is located 142km from Sharjah and is home to the beautiful Sheikh Zayed Mosque

April 2013 34 www.spiceroutemag.com

In the mid-eighties and the nineties, Sharjah Cricket Stadium was one of the most popular cricket venues in the world. It entered the Guinness Book of World Records in 2011 for hosting 200 one-day International (ODI) matches, the maximum ODIs in the world. The cricket oasis does not stage too many international matches these days but nostalgic cricket fans can drop in at the venue to relive some of the memorable matches.â&#x20AC;&#x201A;

City guide

April 2013 36 www.spiceroutemag.com

in LUCKNOW

48 Hours

Once the capital of Awadh, the city still reflects the glory of nawabs and spreads the aroma of kebabs.

WO R D S

P H OTO G R A P H S

Ar j u n

K u m a r

DAY ONE 8:00 AM Breakfast at the Chowk The Chowk is the heart and soul of old Lucknow. The overall market is huge, with numerous shops that span the entire stretch from the Koneshwar temple to Medical College crossing and from Lohia Park to Akbari Gate. The soul of the market is undoubtedly the food on offer here, so my breakfast at the Dixit Chaat House comprised lip-smacking Dahi-Aloo Tikki and Pani Batashas, the latter being Lucknowâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s name for Gol Gappas. The shop took great pride in the fact that the water-chutney mix served inside the Batashas has a taste distinct from that of other shops in the city. But as the Chowk had much more to offer, I decided to come back for another meal later. 37

City guide

9:00 AM Rumi Darwaza It seems logical to kick off an exploration at a gateway, especially one as attractive as the Rumi Darwaza. Unlike ceremonial gateways in many other Indian cities, the Rumi Darwaza is still in use. Built in 1784 under the patronage of the Nawab Asaf-ud-daulah, who is credited with the creation of many of Lucknow’s finest structures, the Darwaza is a place to spend time examining and not just rushing through.

11:00 AM Bara Imambara The Bara Imambara complex, where the Nawabs lived, awes a visitor by its size. It is impossible to believe that this structure, the construction of which was completed in 1791, was built as a relief measure for the famine struck people of Avadh to provide employment to them. The Imambara itself is a fascinating building. Its lower level is built around a large vaulted chamber which houses the tomb of its patron-builder, Asaf-ud-daulah. What makes this chamber very interesting from an architectural viewpoint is that its ceiling contains no beams. This huge central chamber has eight smaller chambers surrounding it, built at different levels. These chambers and their interconnecting passages are linked to each other by identical gateways and the effect is that of a labyrinth. The locals call this the ‘Bhool Bhulaiya’.

2:30 PM Hussainabad Clock Tower I saw a tall tower from the upper levels of the Bara Imambara and decided to check it out.

This was the Hussainabad Clock Tower. Its Moorish design is a bit misleading as this is actually a structure of British times, having been designed by Roskell Payne by 1881, long after the departure of the Nawabs. Visible from the clock tower was a smaller, somewhat ruined tower. This was the Satkhanda, a palace left incomplete after the death of its patron-builder Nawab Muhammad Ali Shah. Though its name points to seven levels, only four are seen today.

4:30 PM Tunde ke Kebab The Chowk beckoned again and by now the market was in full swing. While enjoying walking through the bustling marketplace, my focus was clear. Tunde ke Kebab has a reputation that not only goes beyond the confines of Chowk but also the city and its rich history. The shop owner began narrating some interesting Lucknow stories. Giving the reason behind the Lucknow kebabs being finely minced, he said April 2013 38 www.spiceroutemag.com

Clockwise from top: Rumi Darwaza; Tunde ke kebab; Bara Imambara labyrinth

that Nawab Asaf-ud-daulah lost his teeth early in life and could only chew such food. Given the manner in which the Galauti Kebabs melted in my mouth, it was easy to visualize the toothless Nawab digging into them.

6:00 PM HAZRATGANJ MARKET After a day spent in the past at old Lucknow, Hazratganj came as a shock to the system. Originally a market built by Nawab Amjad Ali Shah, today it is a blur of branded outlets with PVR, Big Bazaar etc lined up. I ended the day at the Shukla Chaat shop over a snack of Matardeep-fried peas served with curd and chutney.

SpiceJet flies to Lucknow. See schedule, page 192.

Clockwise from top left: The memorial inside the Residency; Hussainabad Clock Tower; Lucknow has many tombs

DAY TWO 9:00 AM The Residency Residency is a green complex managed by the Archaeological Survey of India. It has a group of iconic buildings that once housed the British Resident at the court of the Nawab. The place was the setting for a long-drawn and pitched battle between the British and the rebels in 1857. In an amazing feat of preservation, the buildings here have been maintained in exactly the same state as when the besieged British garrison within was relived. There is also a small museum within which showcases the battle. The grounds of the Residency also have a cemetery. Among the many graves here is that of Sir Henry Lawrence.

11:30 AM Qaisarbagh While crossing Hazratganj, I dropped in to check out two tombs at Qaisarbagh. Dating back to the Nawabi period, their occupants were April 2013 40 www.spiceroutemag.com

Nawab Saadat Ali Khan and his wife, Khurshid Zadi. Built of Lakhnuri bricks, the tombs are a delight as they stand in a green patch near a very busy road that leads to Hazratganj.

12:30 PM Aminabad Time for early lunch at Aminabad, where I ducked the temptation of a branch of Tunde and spent time polishing off ghee-ki-kachauri and a kulfi. Aminabad is a shopper’s delight and while the focus is on clothes, the place sells just about anything.

2:00 PM State museum Anyone would imagine that the last place to see heritage would be inside a zoo but that opinion would not hold true in Lucknow. Inside the grounds of the Banarasi Bagh is Lucknow’s zoo and hold your breath, a state museum which offers a glimpse of the city’s Hindu past with a wealth of iconography. The Zoo is also home to over 400 mammals, avian species and reptiles.

City guide

Tunde ke Kebab has a reputation that not only goes beyond the confines of the Chowk but also the city

3:00 PM Dilkusha Towards the end of the trip comes a curious building -the Dilkusha. This building was constructed in British style around the year 1800 by the then Resident as a hunting lodge and later, a summer palace for the Nawabs. In 1857, it was the scene of heavy fighting and suffered damage. Today, it is one of the quietest places in the city and the ruined house sits empty amid lush lawns. Top: Dilkusha Kothi, once the summer palace of Nawabs Above: Varaha inside Banarasi Bagh state museum

6:00 PM Shopping at Hazratganj It was time to go ‘Ganjing’ as some young folks of Lucknow call it. This means to hang out in Hazratganj. There was a time when the April 2013 42 www.spiceroutemag.com

only vehicles that could access this market were British carriages, but era is long gone. The market has undergone extensive facelifts in recent years and presents a graceful face of the city to visitors. Like most of Lucknow’s large shopping enclaves, it houses several submarkets such as the Naza Market, also known as Computer Bazaar. With time to kill before dinner, I window-shopped. The Janpath wing of Hazratganj seemed to be filled with shops selling chikankari-work clothes. Also present in Hazratganj are outlets like Gurjari, Handloom Emporium and Gandhi Ashram which offer handicrafts. Hazratganj is also a foodie’s delight. From Pizza Hut and McDonalds to the finest biryani at Dastarkhwan, the place has everything. I discovered that the best way to wind down a trip to Lucknow was by indulging. This was done over Nargisi kebabs and roomali rotis at the Naushijaan in Hazratganj. The person at the next table looked like another out-oftowner like myself. Complaining a bit about the heavy food, he managed what looked like an Afghani Paratha. That, I guess, is in line with the laidback and indulgent spirit of the city of Nawabs and Kebabs.

Quick getaway

Hidden

beauties The nondescript little town of Talakad will mesmerize you with its beauty and history. WORDS & PHOTOGRAPHS |

Puneetinder

Kaur

Sidhu

n hour away from Mysore, on a sharp bend of the Kaveri river, lies an ancient pilgrimage centre: the historic town of Talakad. Best known for its incredibly beautiful granite temples sunk into sand dunes, the place exudes a rather desert-like appearance. If you find yourself in the neighbourhood, I recommend you treat yourself to the ancient beauty of these granite temples from the Chola and Hoysala eras. Immerse yourself in their half buried sandy secrets. Try to unravel the story behind the dunes, so curiously dotted amidst the verdure on the banks of the Kaveri River. And find out all about the queenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s curse! I noticed during my visit that Talakad, with just a smattering of devotees, is no longer your typical temple town teeming with pilgrims. But this sleepy little place makes for an excellent riverside picnic spot. Remember to pack that picnic basket well as there are no notable places to eat here, other than street side kiosks that flank the path to the edge of the river. Since the 8th century, Talakkad has been ruled periodically by the Gangas, Cholas, Hoysalas, Vijayanagaras and the Wodeyars. Of the 30 temples buried here, five Dravidian style structures, built during the reign of the Gangas and the Cholas, have been excavated, all within a radius of eight kilometres. These five temples form the Panch Lingam, representing the five faces of lord Shiva. Of these, the Pathaleshwara April 2013 46 www.spiceroutemag.com

Quick getaway

Of the 30 temples here, five are Dravidian-style structures built during the reign of the Gangas and the Cholas

Clockwise from top left: Sentinels in Stone; Renovation work being done at the Keerthinarayan Temple; Bangle tree

The sandy path culminates at the remarkable Keerthinarayan temple. Built by the Hoysalas in the 12th century, it commemorates their victory over the Cholas. It is dedicated to the god Vishnu and houses an 8ft tall idol within. Following excavations, this brick and black granite structure has been rebuilt on a new foundation close to the original spot. Signs of ongoing civil works abound as workers go about their business at the site.

Of legends and more and Maruleshwara temples, built by the Ganga rulers, are said to be the oldest, while the Arkeshwara, Vaidyanatheshwara–the largest temple here–and Mallikarjuna shrines date back to the Cholas.

Glories in Granite The most magnificent of the five Shiva temples (all devoid of any sand) is the Vaidyanatheshwara temple. It is the first temple on approach and is located at the beginning

of an intensively undulating walk across the dunes. The entrance to its sanctum is flanked by sentinels intricately carved in stone. An open ended pillared hall greets you behind the main temple if you were to take a round of the spotless premises. An incredible sight is a large, joint-free chain link that hangs from the roof-edge; ample proof of the craftsmanship of the sculptors of yore. A sheltered path takes you past the other Shiva temples; all within a leisurely two hours. April 2013 48 www.spiceroutemag.com

Antediluvian Talakad’s most colourful myth is, surprisingly of fairly recent vintage, dating back to the 17th century. On defeating Rangaraya, viceroy of Srirangapatna, the victorious Wodeyar ruler of Mysore alleged that Rangaraya’s wife, Alamelamma, had in her possession jewels that rightfully belonged to the temple of Srirangapatna. On learning of soldiers marching towards her, she is said to have fled to Talakad, where before drowning herself in the Kaveri, she vent her spleen against the king and town. ‘Let Talakad be

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Talakad at a glance Best time to visit: September to March

Distance: Approximately 50 km from Mysore Darshan timing: 8.30am–1.30pm; 4.30pm–8pm Vaidyeshwar Temple with its intricate carvings

filled with sand. Let the Mysore kings remain childless. Let the river at Malingi become a whirlpool.’ The sandy deluge began soon after, fuelling fertile imaginations and scholarship. The myth of the sand dunes has metamorphosed into a full-blown legend today, one that has continued echoing through the centuries. Several other interesting legends also surround this shrine. It is believed that an ascetic, Somadatta once headed to Siddharanya Kshetra Talakad to worship Shiva. Story goes that having been killed by wild elephants en route, he and his disciples re-incarnated as wild elephants and worshipped Shiva in the form of a tree at Talakad. Subsequently, two hunters Tala and Kada, are believed to have struck the tree with an axe to find blood gushing forth, and upon the bidding of a heavenly voice, dressed the wound of the tree with it leaves and fruits. The tree is said to have soon healed, and the hunters became immortal. Since Shiva is believed to have healed himself through this incident, he is referred to as Vaidyeshwara. The Panchalingams here are all associated with this legend. An important event of this place is the fair held once every 12 years on a full-moon night in the month of Kartik, in honour of the Panchalingam. This is an auspicious event(held around OctoberNovember); a dip in the Kaveri followed by darshana of all the Shivlings is said to bring prosperity and peace. On this day, tradition has it that pilgrims must follow an ancient ritual for the pilgrimage to hold well. They must first bathe in the Gokarna theertham, worship Gokarneswara and Chandikadevi, then worship Vaidyeshwara, bathe in the northern, eastern, southern and western stretches of the Kaveri; then worship Arkeshwara, Pataleshwara, Maraleshwara and Mallikarjuna, returning to Vaidyeshwara after each worship, finally worship Keerthinarayana and conclude the pilgrimage in one day.

Quick getaway

Mountain bliss

Mountains, monasteries, mist and clouds define Sikkim, the second smallest state of India which nestles in the heart of eastern Himalayas. WO R D S

R a jesh

V erma

April 2013 52 www.spiceroutemag.com

holiday in Sikkim to many would mean a visit to Gangtok and Nathula Pass or a stay at Pelling and Yumthang valley â&#x20AC;&#x201C; all terribly crowded with tourists during the peak season. But for those who want to beat the tourist rush, South District is the place to be. It is the smallest of the districts, encompassing an area of only 700 sq km, and is not yet on the popular tourist circuit. It has moderate altitude ranging from sea level to about

10,000 ft and has a pleasant climate. Sikkim as a whole gets very heavy rainfall but, surprisingly, South District has medium precipitation even during peak monsoon. It is a region of hot springs, tea gardens and towering statues. And Sikkimâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s two mighty rivers - the Teesta and Rangeet - meet at one corner of this district. It is an ideal destination for spending a memorable holiday far from the madding crowds.

Quick getaway

Top: Prayer flags cover the skyline Left: The majestic statue of Guru Padmasamva

The South District tour must ideally begin on a holy note at the Char Dham complex, which has a towering statue of Shiva

Trekking paradise For those who have a love for adventure, the mountains of Tendong and Maenam are ideal hotspots. The South District has two good trekking routes - Damthang to Tendong and Rabongla to Maenam. Damthang is 14 kms from Namchi on the Gangtok-Namchi (via Temi) road. To reach Tendong from Damthang, one has to walk for about one and a half hour on a footpath through thick forest of the Tendong Forest Sanctuary. Tendong at an altitude of 2640 m (8660 ft) is situated on a small plateau atop the mountain. From here the view is just spectacular. Perhaps no other place in Sikkim offers a better panoramic view of the mountain ranges in the state than Tendong - it is like April 2013 54 www.spiceroutemag.com

sitting in the centre of a huge amphitheatre. On the east one can see the full Chola Range, on the west the Singelila range and the towering Kanchenjunga. In the North East, one can see the Paunhri peak with surrounding mountains. Darjeeling, Gyalshing, Nathula, a part of Gangtok and the rolling plains of Siliguri can all be discerned from here. Both the sunrise and sunset are breathtaking from Tendong. Besides, all these adventure, the tour of South District can ideally begin on a holy note at the Char Dham complex with a towering statue of Lord Shiva presiding over it. Then proceed to the statue of Guru Padmasambva midway between Damthang and Namchi on the top of Samdruptse. Guru Padmasambva is the founder saint of the Nyngmipa sect to which most of the monasteries in Sikkim belong. Measuring 135 feet in height (and 151 ft from the ground level), the statue can be seen from miles away. The colossal statue is made of copper, cement and concrete and is believed to be constructed at a cost of Rs 67.6 million.

Flora & fauna Namchi is also famous for its nurseries offering a wide range of orchids and other flowers and plants endemic to Sikkim. The town also hosts the colourful Namchi Mahotsav in November

Quick getaway

Fact file

SpiceJet flies to Bagdogra. See schedule, page 192.

✓ The district headquarters of

Namchi is 90km from Bagdogra.

✓ Damthang to Tendong & Rabongla to Maenam are the two popular trekking routes.

✓ Tendong offers a great panoramic view of the mountain ranges.

every year with traditional cultural programme and flower competitions. This are is also known for its hot springs. Phurchachu Reshi hot springs are located about 25 kms from Gyalshing near Reshi on the River Rangeet. People from all over the state and neighbouring Darjeeling come here during the winter months and spend days lying submerged in the soothing water of the hot spring, which also cures skin problems. There are a couple of trekkers’ huts for the convenience of the tourists. Sikkim is also a land of verdant tea gardens. The Temi tea garden carpets a sprawling area of the hill side overlooking the Teesta river. Well manicured tea bushes interspersed with cherry trees present a visual delight. Temi tea has limited production but carries a premium value in the international market. Do not forget to sip Temi tea at the Café there. A visit to the tea factory can be an eye opener of sorts.

Of monks & monasteries The monastery at Rabongla is situated almost midway between Gangtok and Pelling. It is worth spending some time visiting the monastery and the park which has a 148 feet high statue of Buddha (Sakya Muni). The statue has been consecrated by HH Holiness the Dalai Lama. Rabongla has many hotels providing reasonably good moderately priced accommodation. A nice place to stay is Mt. Narsing Resort. If time allows you, a trip to Old Ralang and the New Ralang monasteries 10-15 kms respectively is worth it. Of late, the Rabongla Monastery has been the venue for celebration of Phang Lhabsol, a festival unique to Sikkim. It was popularized by the third Chogyal of Sikkim, Chakdor Namgyal. In this festival, the snowy range of Kachendzonga is worshipped for its unifying powers. This festival marks the signing of the treaty of brotherhood between April 2013 56 www.spiceroutemag.com

the Lepchas and Bhutias by Khye Bumsa and Tetong Tek when the local deities were invoked to witness the occasion. On this day, the guardian deity is portrayed by masked Lama dancers as a fiery red-faced deity with a crown of five skulls, riding a snow lion. This festival is held on the 15th day of the 7th month of the Buddhist calendar around August and September. In Sikkim, different species of vegetation struggle with each other to obtain a foothold in the forest areas. The trunks and branches of trees are heavily festooned with clinging, beard like moss. Yearning for sunlight, vines clamber up the tree trunks. Gigantic ferns take the form of giant garden umbrellas. In the near darkness of the forest, shards of sunlight filter through the thick canopy of trees. Insects trill, leaves whisper, little creatures walk through the underbrush and birds whistle their territorial claims. This is an experience to behold.

Theme holiday

Date with

Ganges

Once famous for being the starting point for the Char Dham yatra, Rishikesh is now the hot-spot for white water rafting. WOR D S

S h e elpa

Kot ha ri

S or t i

t is a holy hamlet with numerous temples, ashrams, yoga training centers and the iconic hanging bridge called Laxman Jhula but today Rishikesh is increasingly becoming famous as Indiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s best white river-rafting destination besides being a pilgrimage spot on the banks of the countryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most sacred river - the Ganges. And why not? The snow-fed mountain river April 2013 62 www.spiceroutemag.com

winding down from the great Himalayas promises to make the northern Indian region one of the most sought after natural watersports hub.

Rafting fun The Ganges leaves the mountains here and prepares herself to begin a long journey

Theme holiday

through the plains. Rishikesh, which is the gateway to the Himalayas, stands at an altitude of 372 meters (~ 1745 feet) above sea level and the rushing river gives a whole new dimension to rafting here. Situated at 250 kms from the national capital Delhi, Rishikesh, also known as the world capital of yoga, is today rediscovered by the adventure tourists for that breathtaking experience and the unusual thrill in the lap of lively Ganges. March to July and September to December are the best months to experience the excitement of rafting in the Ganges as the river is neither too wild nor too placid during these two seasons.

The destination is now more popular among the youth as the adventure theme is coupled with the school/college vacations in this season, not to forget the conducive temperatures and proximity to the national capital Delhi. The river has 13 most thrilling rapids from Kaudiyala to Rishikesh in the upper reaches of wild and white water such as ‘The Wall, Cross Fire and Three Blind Mice’. The ones posing some serious challenge are Roller Coaster, Return to Sender and Golf Course. Classified into Grade I, Grade II, Grade III and Grade IV,

Adventure activities like parasailing, hot air ballooning and zorbing makes Rishikesh a world-class destination

(Clockwise from above) Rafting gears; tourists outside their tents; the famous Lakshman jhula

April 2013 64 www.spiceroutemag.com

according to difficulty level and number of days taken to cover them, the rapids offer adventure opportunity for all abilities.

In nature�s lap An easy rafting trip covers about 10-kms of river running. First drive to Brahmpuri, and then take a boat to ride the currents of the water of the Ganges. Raft down through the heart of Laxman Jhula and Geeta Bhawan to Muni-Ki-Reti and witness the picturesque stretches of sandy beaches, deep green valley of Rishikesh, numerous ashrams, yoga and meditation institutes and bathing ghats with

Theme holiday

SpiceJet flies to Dehradun. See schedule, page 192.

rishikesh unplugged

The word Rishikesh has its origins in the Sanskrit name Hrishikesh meaning ‘lord of the senses’. It is also said that Lord Rama did penance here for killing Ravana. Lakshman is believed to have crossed the river Ganges, at a point, where the Lakshman Jhula stands today.

pilgrims taking a holy dip in the Ganges river water. Rafting certainly presents a better way to witness Rishikesh. However, if you want to explore the new areas and have an open mind, you are qualified to join any of the white water-rafting trips that are organized on the Ganges. For longer rafting trips, one requires previous experience in this adventure sport. There are many sites in Garhwal and Kumaon region of Uttaranchal that can be tapped as the perfect sites for providing the pleasure of water sports.

Ghat by the River Ganges

There are quite a few places, especially in the Garhwal region, which have a latent potential as tourist recreation centres and some hold immense potential for professional rafting. Your first encounter will be the beginning of the addiction. Though being called the river-rafting capital of India, Rishikesh also provides holiday makers with a genuine taste of many other thrilling options in Uttrarakhand. Adventure lovers can even indulge in canoeing at Rishikesh. A gentle canoe trip in a lightweight alloy-metal craft is popular with the adventurers. Canoeing allows you to explore remote wilderness and nature-rich areas. It can be enjoyed by any age group. Hiking and nature holidays are also well accepted by the tourists in Rishikesh and an ideal base for trekking camps. You may choose from the Chandrashila, Devi Darshan, Kauri and several other treks from Rishikesh. That Rishikesh was famous for being the starting point for the Char Dham yatra and April 2013 66 www.spiceroutemag.com

the gateway to the holy pilgrimage towns of Badrinath- Kedarnath and Gangotri and Yamnotri seems to be a thing of past. On the flip side of the coin, adventure activities like parasailing, hot air ballooning and zorbing makes Rishikesh a world-class destination and could surely provide a tough competition to New Zealand as a adventure sport tourist spot. Situated at around 10 km from Rishikesh is another ideal river rafting site of Shivpuri, where camping facilities are present along the Ganges river. The camps are well equipped with two single beds with mattresses, complete bedding, towels, etc. From the camp base, one can opt for half-day rafting trip, for which no previous rafting experience is necessary. Beside the camping facilities, tourists are also provided with expert guides and top quality equipment and rafting gear. Shivpuri presents an ideal way to explore the flora and fauna of the Himalayan region on foot too, taking a hiking tour to the nearby small villages. As the area is close to Rajaji National Park, one can see a good variety of resident and migratory birds.

Theme holiday

Wodeyar

touch

This could well be the other side of Indiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Silicon Valley. The Bangalore Palace at the heart of the city still stand by its glorious past. WOR D S

P H OTO G R APHS

R os a m m a

tâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a must-see location for travellers to this IT city. For right in the heart of this bustling city, is an over 400-acre space that comprise the grounds of the palace, a vast area where you can just walk leisurely, on a morning when the sunshine is gentle. There must have been a time when the palace grounds were better landscaped â&#x20AC;&#x201C; after all, Gustave Hermann Krumbiegel, the German-origin botanist and garden designer, had worked here some hundred years ago. These days, the grounds seem a little run-down, and the erstwhile royal family tries to cash in on the space, letting it out to those who hold marriage receptions and such events.

Th omas

Art in abundance Even so, the Bangalore Palace and its grounds offer a peek into utter luxury. There are large

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Theme holiday

SpiceJet flies to Bengaluru. See schedule, page 192.

Glimpses of the treasures that fill all corners of the palace

too much the museum, too much like a space meant for display. These days, sections of the palace are just that – spaces for tourists to walk about and marvel.

Regal spendour

The Bangalore Palace was finally opened for public viewing in 2005 after elaborate renovations canvases on some of the walls; look around to take in an eyeful of nudes, alongside a collection of Raja Ravi Varma. Knick-knacks from across the world have been preserved here, and there is much to look at and wonder about. Not all things here are beautiful, though – there are stool-like pieces of furniture, and you’ll be struck that an elephant was killed at one time, and its legs lopped off to make the outer cover for the base of the stools! If you tried making something like that these days, you’d be considered a moron, a destroyer of nature, someone with hideous tastes. While walking through the long corridors of this

palace one wonders how the notions of beauty has change, in just about 100 years! The size and number of the rooms that this palace had (35 rooms, many of them supposedly bedrooms), one cannot help being a little puzzled by the life of the royals. How, for instance, did they manage to wear so many outlandish clothes? There is a vast space dedicated just to the royal wardrobe and a series of them contain vast quantities of clothes. It takes quite a leap of imagination to understand how the palace might ever have been a space meant to be lived in – it looks April 2013 70 www.spiceroutemag.com

One would be amazed to know that the building was originally built as a home for a school principal! Reverend Garett, the first principal of the Central High School, which later came to be known as Central College, got the building built. It was later modified for the maharajas – royalty only took possession of the site in 1873, buying it off the reverend and renovating it to regal tastes (I’m quite certain that the presumably austere reverend would not have had the elaborate wooden carving, the Italian flooring, and other such extravagances). After almost 20 years of legal dispute, the Bangalore Palace was finally opened for public viewing in 2005 after elaborate renovations. There is even a fun park for children in the palace grounds, and the site serves also as a venue for major exhibitions. Wodeyar (and the man must now be used to being addressed thus, in a democratic land) must be congratulated for how thoughtfully he has preserved the building. He has also roped in the services of internationally renowned professionals to provide the audio guide through the palace. You can get the system and a pair of earphones, which will guide you through the palace and the objects on display. Not too many Government-run museums can boast of offering such facilities to visitors. So make that trip, go see the palace. Live life kingsize, at least for a few hours!

Festive flavour

Celebrating spring This harvest season, letâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s come together to celebrate some of Indiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most colourful festivals WOR D S

Pall avi

S i n gh

Rongali Bihu

Tulip festival

The whole of Assam comes alive during Bihu, the harvest festival. Though celebrated across India with a different name, Bihu in Assam has its own unique flavour. According to the Hindu calender, the Rongali Bihu, celebrated in the month of April, marks the beginning of the New Year and is believed to be the most popular one among the three. The community partakes in the traditions and fun, feasts and games. Customs and traditions like worship of Gods to seek blessings, community feasting with dishes like pitha, larus and jolpan, Bihu folk music and dances, exchanging sweets and gifts all form part of the festival. Celebration and festivity is visible in every corner, with people visiting friends and family and exchanging Bihu greetings.

Tulips are usually associated with Holland, however, for the last couple of years this beautiful flower has spread its beauty in the Indian soil too. The Tulip Garden Festival is held every year at the Indira Gandhi Memorial Garden (Siraj Bagh), Srinagar. A great crowd puller among tourists, the Tulip garden in Srinagar is believed to be one of the biggest in Asia. When flowers are in full bloom in the month of April, the whole garden is strewn with colourful tulips running across endless rows. With the mountains as the background, many varieties of beautiful and vibrant tulips grow in this garden, spread over 5 hectors. Red, yellow, variegated, pink, white, orange, light blue, and magenta are the main colours of tulips found here. Cultural programmes, Kashmiri folk songs, sale of local handicrafts, and preparation

When: April 14 Where: Assam

April 2013 72 www.spiceroutemag.com

of traditional Kashmiri cuisine forms an integral part of the Tulip festival. When: April 5-15 Where: Indira Gandhi Memorial Tulip Garden, Srinagar, Kashmir

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Festive flavour

aromas. Dolphin cruises on Benaulim beach are also organised during the festival apart from many other water sports, which keeps the visitors busy with action. Nightlife during the festival is amazing and the towns of Colva and Benaulim come to life like never before. When: April-May Where: Colva region, Goa

Thrissur pooram The Thrissur Pooram festival is one of the most splendid temple festivals of Kerala. Started way back by Sakthan Thampuran, the Maharaja of erstwhile Kochi state, Thrissur pooram is celebrated in the Malyalam month of Medom,

which usually falls in April or May. The festival is known for its cultural performances where artists from far and wide come here to give their best performances during this festival. The extraordinary, astounding processions from Krishna Temple and Devi Temple are other highlights of the festival. A huge parade is taken out with decorated elephants which keeps the visitors mesmerized. Amazing fireworks is an added attraction and is worth watching. Thrissur pooram is the conclusion of the eight-day Utsavam of nine temples and all the groups strive to be their best. When: April 21 Where: Kerala

Beach bonanza The Beach Bonanza is a popular beach festival celebrated in the Colva region of Goa. This 60-day festival offers the visitors a slice of true Goan lifestyle. Held on the mesmerizing beaches of Benaulim and Colva, the event offers unlimited entertainment and fun. The festival is held on Sundays from the month of April to the last week of May. An array of fun-filled events like magic shows, singing competitions and dance events are organised during this festival besides a wide range of food stalls greet you with tempting flavours and

Mody School: Enlightening lives

ody School is the result of the lofty vision of Sh.Rajendra Prasad Ji Mody, the founding father of Mody Institute of Education and Research, the foundation of which was laid in the year 1988. Since then the Institute has attained great heights and has transformed into a centre of higher learning. Besides the School, Mody Institute has become a deemed university offering degrees in graduation and post-graduation, law, management and engineering. Located in the heart of the Shekhawati region of Rajasthan, situated midway between Bikaner and Jaipur on National Highway-11, the School is well connected by road, rail and air to all parts of India.

Ours is an English medium residential school exclusively dedicated to education for girl child. The school has attained the highest standards of academic and administrative efficiency. This is validated by its ISO 9001:2000 certification and membership of the prestigious Indian Public Schools’ Conference. Also being ISO 14001:2004 certified is proof enough that love and awareness regarding the environment is a priority for all on the campus. Spread over 265 acres with approximately 12 kms of internal roads, the school offers a unique ambience with its lush green lawns, fountains, water-body and its diverse and rare flora and fauna. The school motto ‘Strive for excellence’ is not merely a motivational statement from the Upanished, it is a way

April 2013 74 www.spiceroutemag.com

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of life at Mody School. Mody School added another feather to its cap by becoming the first school in Rajasthan to receive the Certificate of Accreditation from NABET (National Board of Accreditation for Education and Training), a constituent body of Quality Council of India.

Launch pad

Shop hopping Beautiful lifestyle products, just for you!

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Nothing underlines the brightness and warmth of spring / summer better than flowers. Keeping the season of flowers in mind, CaratLane, one of India’s leading online jewellers, has introduced the Fleur Collection. Each piece of the collection evokes decorative images with inspiration drawn from flowers like Sunflower, Dahlia, Rose, Aster, Tulip, Plumeria and Hibiscus.

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Go psychedelic

St ylish hair

Music companion

Style a new you today with Set wet as it introduces hair waxes, an uber cool hair styling range for men. Spanning the categories of waxes, clays and fibre gum, the latest range is perfect for those who hate spending hours in front of the mirror focusing on their look.

Add some colour to your music, choose UrbanEars as it brings to you its range of headphones and in-earphones suiting your taste buds and comfort level. These earplugs come in different designs - Plattan, Tanto, and Medis with colours like grape, tomato, and more.

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This summer, flaunt the best of style! This ultra chic collection by Biba perfect for today’s alpha woman. Choose from an array of cotton salwar kameez sets, smart kurta churidar ensembles to Kalidar and Anarkali styles in impeccable cuts and kurtas in bold summer prints and designs. Price: `699 onwards Available: All Biba outlets across India

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NIVEA has introduced two new deodorants, Fresh Active Burst and Rush to their existing range of NIVEA for Men. The fragrance is perfect for those who are seeking a mildly intense scent and long lasting fragrance throughout the day.

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Slim shirts

Good health

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Fortune Rice Bran Health with its oryzanol is good for the heart and body. It helps increase good cholesterol and reduces bad cholesterol. This healthy oil helps prevent cancer, improves skin tone, above all it keeps your food tasty.

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Spice Trail

Forever

green

One of my personal favourites, coriander surely has the power to upgrade the taste as well as the visual appeal of any dish. WO R D S

Saya nt i

Ba nerjee

here is something about these lush green leaves of coriander that makes you want it more and more. Whether in the form of a thick sauce into which you dip in your fried munchies or just a sprinkling over a dish for garnishing purposes, this herb surely has a magic about it. In fact it can also quick-fix a dish that has too much or too less of other spices. Well, such is the mesmerizing effect of coriander not only to the sense of taste but of vision and smell as well, that one cannot help but declare this herb as a top favourite! April 2013 80 www.spiceroutemag.com

Blissful herb Corinander is popular as dhania in India and forms a part of almost every dish from the Indian household. Not many people know that this herb is also referred to as Chinese parsley. It is found around the year and looks as green as ever, no matter whether it is summer or winter for that matter. Native to regions spanning from southern Europe and North Africa to southwestern Asia, the leaves have an interesting shape if one cares to look at the more closely. As far as the etymology

Spice Trail

is concerned, the word coriander has been derived from the Old French term ‘coriandre’, which in turn hails from Latin coriandru while, Cilantro is the Spanish word for coriander which in fact happens to be more popular in North America, all thanks to its overwhelming usage in Mexican cuisine. Interestingly, this is one herb in which actually all parts of the plant are edible. But then of course people have their preferences and most commonly it is the fresh leaves as well as the dried seeds that are most traditionally used in cooking. Though, it is a popular herb across the world, the most dominant usage is in places like South Asian, Southeast Asian, Middle Eastern, Central Asian, Mediterranean, Indian, Tex-Mex, Latin American, Portuguese, Chinese, African, and Scandinavian cuisine. In fact, it is a popular practice to have roasted coriander seeds as it is easy to digest. As far as the South Indian cuisine is concerned, the coriander seed happens to be one of the main ingredients of the two majorly popular south Indian dishes like sambhar

and rasam. Also, it is great to know how the basic coriander seeds can actually be used in brewing certain styles of beer and is put to practice mostly in Belgian wheat beers.

Medicinal value When coriander seeds boiled in water is used as a drink, it works as an indigenous medicine for common cold. What makes coriander specially beneficial for a healthy diet is the fact that it contains a huge percentage of antioxidants. If a study is to be something to go by, it has been suggested that both the leaves and seed contain antioxidants, but the leaves usually have a stronger effect of the same. It can actually help to preserve food items by preventing them from getting spoiled easily. Coriander has also been used as a traditional medicine for the relief of anxiety and insomnia in Iran. In fact, most of the times coriander seeds are used in traditional Indian medicine as a diuretic by boiling equal amounts of coriander seeds and cumin seeds, then cooling and consuming the resulting liquid. Well, in holistic and traditional medicine, it is used as a carminative and as a

Coriander can help preserve food items by preventing them from getting spoiled easily

digestive aid. The best part is that coriander has been documented as a traditional treatment for type 2 diabetes as well.

Big appetite delightCoriander Biryani

Ingredients Basmati rice – 2 cups Coriander seeds – ½ cup Curd – ½ cup Pudina (mint leaves) – ½ bunch Coriander leaves – ½ bunch Green chilli – 6 Garlic – 5 cloves Ginger – a small piece Finely chopped onions – 1 cup Puree of tomato – 1 cup Cinnamon – a small piece Clove – 2 Cardamom – 2 Ghee – ¼ cup Salt – ½ table spoon Oil – 1 table spoon Method: • Boil the basmati rice with just enough water to keep it crisp. • Fry the onion in the oil till they turn golden brown. Add the tomato puree and make a thick paste. Add salt and other spices into it. • Boil the coriander leaves in 4 cups of water in an open vessel. • Strain the water and add to the paste. • Mix pudina, coriander leaves, green chilli and garlic to the same and fry in a dollop of ghee. • Stir in the clove, cardamom and cinnamon for taste. • Strain the water from the boiled rice and mix it into the paste created to coat every grain perfectly. Cover the vesssle with a lid and let it cook for 5 minutes. Once you get the smell of biryani with a strong hint of coriander, remove the lid and start serving after letting the vapor cool off for another 3 minutes.

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Gourmet delight

Goan flavours Goa with its unique assortment of spices and veggies opens up a whole new world of indigenous cuisine WOR D S

M a rr y a m

R eshi i

t was hot and overcrowded in the Friday market at Mapusa. On tiny squares of gunny sacks that lined the pavements and roads, hundreds of village ladies had staked out their space to sell a bewildering assortment of vegetables, fruits, sausages and cooking ingredients. In the midst of it all were spice sellers whose cinnamon and cardamom wafted their fragrance over the ripe smell of tiny bananas and vinegary sausages. I was goggle-eyed at the novelty of it all: many of the vegetables were leafy greens that I had never seen before, and the degree of specialization was such that each lady (no men here, strangely) had just one or two types of vegetables. Side by side with the aromatic spices were ingredients that were probably unique to Goa. One was an exceedingly sour berry like fruit that had been sun-dried to a purple hue and the other was a pepper-like spice, quite as aromatic as Sichuan pepper but with a much more thick skin. April 2013 84 www.spiceroutemag.com

photos | Park Hyatt, Goa

Gourmet delight

Garden green

The price of falooda and cold coffee was four times as much as that of cashew feni, the local fire-water

The great advantage of ethnic markets like the one in Mapusa is that all produce is locally grown. In this case, by hundreds of housewives all over the Bardez district of Goa, of which Mapusa is the largest town. Even unpolished ‘red’ Goan rice, hardly seen outside the state, was sold by these ladies. As far as I could tell, each lady had her own kitchen garden at home from where the vegetables came. The disadvantage was that because of a lack of a common language, I could not ask a single question. So I took another route. I bought a modest amount of both ingredients and set off to look for a restaurant that would tell me about them. Looking around in Mapusa did not yield much in the way of Goan cuisine. The strictly utilitarian little lunch homes served one dish April 2013 86 www.spiceroutemag.com

meals: pork chilli fry with pao or prawn and beef cutlets. The price of falooda and cold coffee was four times as much as that of cashew feni, the local fire-water! So, no prizes for guessing what sold more in St. Francis Xavier and the other functional cafes that dot the Municipal Market of Mapusa.

Historic curry My first port of call was to Odette Mascarenhas, cuisine writer and researcher of Goan food. By sheer coincidence, she is actually engaged in researching the first curry to belong to Goa: xacuti/xagoti. I am thoroughly confused for more than one reason: I had always thought that the coconutbased fish curry that constitutes the everyday diet of all Goans was the first curry. Besides, I have never heard of xagoti! “Everyday fish curry as well as xacuti are the native foods.

used in Goa, and that too, mainly by the Hindu community,” says Mascarenhas, who has made the subject of xagoti/xacuti her research for a forthcoming book. The mother-lode of all xagoti is believed to have originated in the northernmost part of the state, Pernem. “Each of the 11 talukas or districts of Goa has its distinct taste profile for the same dish,” her research has proved. “When a bride marries from one taluka into another, she melds both styles together, so that over the centuries the distinction has become diffused. However,” says Mascarenhas pensively, “because there has been zero documentation, researching is a nightmare.”

Sour touch Xacuti is called that by the Goan Catholics who have a cuisine distinct from the Hindus,” Mascarenhas informs me, while trying unsuccessfully to bring order to a mountain of notebooks, papers and newspapers that are scattered around her work table. According to her research, xagoti, the version of chicken curry cooked in Hindu households across the state, uses teflem, the exact same spice that intrigued me in the Mapusa market. “It is only April 2013 88 www.spiceroutemag.com

Kokum is one native ingredient that is used more extensively all down the coast of western India, albeit in slightly different forms everywhere. “The Latin name is garcinia indica and it has slight local variations,” explains Mascarenhas, immediately putting into perspective the sour purple fruits that I bought in Mapusa. No fish curry is complete without the use of a souring agent. In Goa, the most widely used is kokum, followed by the sour fruit of bilmbi (tree sorrel). Tamarind is

Gourmet delight

Kokum is one native ingredient that is used all down the coast of western India, albeit in slightly different forms rarely, if ever, used in fish and prawn curries, though it is always used with meats (pork, beef and chicken). In some aspects, Goan food is influenced by its location on the Konkan coast – it is effectively on a continuum that includes Gomantak and Malwani food. However, Chef Edridge Vaz of Park Hyatt Goa explains to me that the Portuguese were the game changers as far as the local cuisine went. “Take vindalho for instance,” this man of few words elucidates. “Originally it meant vin (wine) and alho (garlic) and probably was as pure a Portuguese dish as can be imagined. Four hundred and fifty years later, look what we Goans have done to it!” Indeed, the incendiary dish with a generous slick of oil atop it, does not resemble Portuguese food, however remotely. Casa Sarita, the Goan restaurant that Chef Vaz runs, is a stylized version of an aristocratic home in the state, complete with fish-scales for window panes and household accessories of a domestic kitchen. Vaz has done an excellent job of translating the name – House of Sarita – into the menu. So rather than rich, heavy banquet food that every caterer in Goa has done to death, he gives me ambotik, which means spicy and sour, and is a curry that always features shark. There are simple, home-style steamed vegetables, sprinkled over with the lightest of spices and grated coconut, red rice and dodol for dessert. We are in a courtyard in which a fountain tinkles. The earthy tastes, the tiny carbon footprint (coconuts, fish, spices from a 50 kilometre radius), rice and vegetables all from the area – Goan cuisine may be from the west coast, but it has arrived there via Portugal. April 2013 90 www.spiceroutemag.com

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Gourmet delight

Top

summer

foods

From fresh fruits to colourful vegetables, feast on these summer power foods and stay healthy.

ummer can get tricky when it comes to food. As the temperature soars high, the urge to eat is almost gone. One is happy drinking only water and even chilled aerated drinks. However, there is a wide range of seasonal fare that can make eating during summers all the more exciting.

Watermelon Refreshing, tasty, and hydrating, watermelon needs no dressing up to provide the nutrition and flavours we crave for. Summertime is when watermelons are best in quality and price. Watermelons come in all shapes and sizes, and they have thick green rinds that are spotted or striped. The inflammationfighting antioxidants in watermelon may reduce risk of complications of diabetes, April 2013 92 www.spiceroutemag.com

Gourmet delight

cardiovascular disease, cancer, and arthritis. Watermelon is also high in vitamins C and A (in the form of beta-carotene) and the antioxidant lycopene, known for reducing risk of macular degeneration and prostate cancer. Potassium, which helps muscle and nerve function, regulation of the body’s electrolyte and acid-base balance, and reduction of high blood pressure risk, is also a benefit from eating watermelon. With about 92 per cent of weight coming from water, watermelon also contributes to fluid intake -- especially important during warm weather. One cup of watermelon has 45 calories and 12 grams of carb, so it is perfect to have your fill.

tomatoes

Tomatoes make a nutritious and delicious addition to any meal

With a variety of shapes and sizes, summer tomatoes make a nutritious and delicious addition to any meal. Available year-round, fresh tomatoes are most flavourful from July through September (those planted in late spring or early summer). The tomato in any variety or form provides multiple health benefits– especially for reducing risks of complications of diabetes and cardiovascular disease. According to recent studies, frequent consumption of tomato products is associated with a reduced risk. Low in calories (1 cup has only 32 calories and 7 grams of carb.), tomatoes are a superior source of vitamin C and vitamin A as well as vitamin K – important for bone health. Other vital nutrients in tomatoes include lycopene, potassium, vitamin B6, folate, dietary fiber, manganese, magnesium, niacin, and vitamin E. As in other nutrient-rich foods, these substances work together to promote good health. Remember, pills don’t grow on trees!

cucumbers Keep cool as a cucumber and include these versatile vegetables into your summer cuisine. One cup of sliced cucumbers has only 16 calories and 4 grams of carb. China is the largest producer of cucumbers, providing twothirds of the global supply. Health benefits of cucumbers are numerous. The skins and seeds of cucumbers are rich in nutrients and higher than the flesh, so consuming the whole fruit is desirable. Both conventional and organic cucumbers are often waxed. The only waxes used on organic cucumbers are nonsynthetic waxes, which must be free of chemical April 2013 94 www.spiceroutemag.com

Gourmet delight

Bell peppers contain a large amount of phytochemicals that have exceptional antioxidant qualities

contaminants that are prohibited under organic regulations. Conventionally grown cucumbers may have synthetic waxes that contain chemicals. It is often recommended to leave the skin of organically grown cucumbers intact regardless of whether the cucumber has been waxed. Cucumbers contain a phytonutrient, lignin, known to provide anticancer benefits by promoting a protective role of bacteria in the digestive tract.

peppers Sweet, crisp peppers are a beautiful addition to any meal. Peppers are packed with nutrients and are a terrific source of vitamin C, thiamine, vitamin B6, beta-carotene, and folic acid. Sweet peppers contain a large amount of phytochemicals that have exceptional antioxidant activity. Red sweet peppers also contain lycopene, which helps protect against cancer and heart disease. One cup of sliced fresh peppers has about 28 calories and 6 grams of carb., easily fitting into any diabetes or weight management plan. While the red sweet pepper is usually thought of as more nutrient-rich, the green sweet pepper is a top source of luteolin â&#x20AC;&#x201C; also found in

celery, carrots, and some herbs â&#x20AC;&#x201C; which provides anti-inflammatory, anti-cancer, and antimicrobial effects. Peppers are available throughout the year, but they are most abundant during the summer and early fall.

eggplant Add Mediterranean flair as well as fibre and antioxidants to meals with this beautiful purple vegetable. The unique flavour and texture of eggplant lends itself to a variety of cooking methods. Try roasting or grilling with a light coating of olive oil for a wonderful main dish or side; use leftovers in a salad the next day. The Mediterranean diet includes nuts, seeds, and olive oil, and generous servings of fruits and vegetables. An excellent source of dietary fibre and manganese, eggplant is also a good source of molybdenum and potassium. Eggplant is also rich in vitamin K, magnesium, copper, vitamin C, vitamin B6, folate, and niacin. Researchers at the US Department of Agriculture found chlorogenic acid, a dominant antioxidant, in eggplant, which can also lower LDL (bad) cholesterol. One cup of cooked eggplant has only 35 calories, 9 grams of carb., and 2 grams of fibre.â&#x20AC;&#x201A; April 2013 96 www.spiceroutemag.com

In conversation

Lord of

the yarn

Popular author Jeffrey Archer strikes a chord with his Indian readers during a hurricane tour of the country. WO R D S

F l or i n a

S or e n

April 2013 98 www.spiceroutemag.com

he author, whose books sell in millions every year, was in India to launch his latest novel â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Best Kept Secret, days before it was launched world-wide. A master storyteller, Lord Jeffrey Archer has given his readers classics like Kane and Abel and Not a Penny More, Not a Penny Less to name a few. We bring you excerpts from his interview with Spiceroute magazine.

In conversation

I started writing pretty late in my life and my first book, Not a Penny More, Not a Penny Less, was rejected by 14 publishers Why do you choose to launch your book first in India? Sheer numbers! India for us is a 250 million English speaking market. Your country has the maximum numbers of English readership and hence I need to come here first.

In India, I am impressed by the huge number of book readers who have been coming forward to meet me. Some come with tattered copy of my earlier book which has been passed down through generations and such fan following cannot be ignored at any cost.

You covered four Indian cities in five days. Do you like such high voltage marketing? Well, it is here that my readers need me more. In America and Australia, a few tweets and Facebook or blog updates are enough to reach my readers.

How much of Indian readers get in touch with you online? Oh, it is a fairly good number, 25 % of my readers who get in touch with me online are Indians. How would you compare your Indian readers to

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readers in the West? Well in Bangalore where I was day before yesterday, the average age of my readers was 18 and they were mostly girls. Children as young as 10-years-old have come up to me here. In India, I am treated more like a rock star, while in the West perhaps my readers are more middle-aged. Any particular Indian city that you especially like or would like to visit? I am yet to take a casual (touristy) look at India, I havenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t yet seen the Taj Mahal, so would like to come back someday with my wife and visit these places.

In conversation

Your country has the maximum number of English readership, hence I need to come here first You have visited India few times already, do we ever get to read about an Indian character in your novel? Indians intrigue me; the country is too complex for me to understand so I don’t think I can do that. Any Indian author whom you admire/whose works you really like? Well it has to be R K Narayan, he is just magical. What does Lord Archer do when he is not writing? Visit art galleries, watch a lot of theatre, that is my relaxation; though I write eight hours a day without fail. You are soon to turn 73, at

this ripe age you write, you tweet, blog and do charity auctions besides so many other things. How do you manage so much? Plain and simple, I get up early. When do you plan to reveal the secret of the Clinton trilogy, considering the latest book, Best Kept Secret is the third in the series? Unfortunately, the readers will still have to do some waiting. Perhaps it will be seven in the series. In today’s world all successful books are made into motion pictures, will we see the same with your books?

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Remake of Kane and Able is in the offing soon and Parts of Glory is also being made into a film. Any word of caution for writers-to-be? I started writing pretty late in my life and my first book Not a Penny More, Not a Penny Less was rejected by 14 publishers before it finally got published. So keep your patience and keep writing. Kane and Able was the game changer for me. What would Jeffrey Archer be, if not a writer? Captain of the England cricket team (He replies without a blink) The author’s book tour was organised by Landmark.

In conversation

Twoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s company

hen Grammy awardee Deep Forest and santoor maestro Rahul Sharma came together to perform at Sulafest 2013, the audience got the taste of ethnic electronica mingled with rustic folk santoor renditions. The tunes were inspired by various instruments and percussions that produce soulful and mesmerizing music. Up close with Eric

Feet start tapping as master of ethnic electronica Deep Forest and santoor maestro Rahul Sharma collaborate for a jamming session. WORDS | Nitika Bajpayee P H O T O G R A P H S | R AJI V JHA

Mouquet of Deep Forest and Rahul Sharma, we find what music means to these great maestros. What attracts you to the ethnic Indian music? Eric: India is a culturally rich country. The music in the country has deep roots with the cultural history. The tunes are rustic and soulful with some amazing

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instruments which are still unfamiliar to many. I want to make the people aware about them. Rahul: Indian music is extremely rich and deep. Youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll need a lifetime to learn various ragas as the classical music from India never ends. It will always keep growing as long as there are new talents who keep on representing it.

In conversation

There are some amazing music composers in the industry, says Rahul What kind of Indian music do you enjoy the most? Eric: I like every type of music, there is none that stands out or is on top of the other. The music in India has grown tremendously but I would feel the folk ones are better than the current popularity as they have the amazing history of the nation with them. Rahul: The Indian ethnic music is what I admire the most. My santoor is something whose music I love dearly. How do you plan to explore the music of India – by visiting different schools of music, travelling or associating with music composers like Rahul/Eric, or by exploring the unheard Indian folk music? Eric: With my album in collaboration with Rahul I got a chance to listen and feel the music from various regions in the

country like Jammu & Kashmir, Rajasthan, Maharashtra and Coorg. Rahul visited the various regions and handpicked them. The album ‘Deep India’ actually explores the unheard Indian folk music, and all the credit goes to him. Rahul: I think that Indian music is very vast to be explored by a single person. I’ve tried my best to explore the unheard folk music on the nation, and bring it to the world stage with my various collaborations like the one with Eric in Deep India. How do you plan to use the music you both created together? Will it be limited to an album only? Eric: As of now the music can be heard on every track of Deep India. But you never know I might collaborate with him again for something else. But for now I can’t promise as there a lot of

other prior commitments that I have to fulfill. Rahul: As of now we both are busy with other commitments. I’m sure Deep India won’t be the only collaboration among the two of us. But it is too early to comment on that. Do you also plan to make music for the very vibrant Indian film industry? Eric: I’ve not been approached by anybody from the Indian film industry. But if the opportunity comes, I would love to work for a movie or two. Rahul: I’ve worked in Bollywood earlier for the movie Mujhse Dosti Karoge which was a good experience. There are some projects that I’m considering but can’t disclose as of now. Do you also follow Bollywood music? If yes, which music composer do

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you appreciate? Eric: To be honest I have not heard Bollywood music as yet; all I know it is a very rapidly growing industry making its presence felt across the globe. I feel that every composer is good in their own way. Rahul: There are some amazing music composers in the industry and it is not easy for me to pick one as my favorite everybody has their different style in which the produce music. There are great talents like those of A.R Rahman, Pritam, and Shankar-Ehsaan-Loy who are masters at what they do. What kind of music do you personally like? Eric: If the music is unique, creative I’ll be the admirer of it. I believe every genre of music has its own penchant & is extraordinary in its terms. There can’t be any particular genre that supersedes the other.

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In conversation

Rahul Sharma and the Deep Forest band after their performance in Coorg

Rahul: I like the music of the 100 stringed santoor which creates amazing tunes. Actually I like every music that strikes the soul. What inspires you to experiment with music, instruments and voices? Eric: I get inspired by small things in life. The time spent by me in the studio has taught me one thing that the best music is created by improvisation. There is so much in the world of music which is amazing to hear but goes unnoticed. I’m on a mission to try and introduce them to the world. Rahul: The love for the music and hunger to explore more keeps me inspired to compose, experimentor collaborate with a lot of artists. How does a destination and music define each other?

Eric: One thing that I’ve noticed with all the collaborations is that every region has its unique sound & affinity to the music. You will always find something new at a new location which will leave you spellbound. The music is inspired by the cultures and heritage of the place. Rahul: The music & destination have a close relationship as both represent each other but I feel the music should not be constrained to a region. Like earlier Santoor was just a folk instrument from Kashmir and my father Shiv Kumar Sharma introduced it to classical music and gave it worldwide recognition. Your favorite holiday destination? Eric: Back home in France I guess. As I’m always touring from one place to another that coming

back home feels like a holiday to me. Rahul: It has to be Kashmir, my all time favourite destination. How was is it working on intriguing album titled ‘Deep India’ in collaboration with Rahul Sharma/Deep Forest? Eric: It was an amazing experience, never before had I heard Rahul play but he is an absolute genius with Santoor. We never met before the launch of the album and worked only via skype and other online services but it felt as if we were sitting next to each other. It was an amazing experience compiling the album with Rahul who understood what I expected of him and delivered accordingly which ensured smooth & quick output. Rahul: In the album I wanted

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to reflect the India Folk Music which is so rich and diverse. I travelled to Jammu Kashmir, Punjab, Assam, Medikeri Coorg, Maharashtra and Rajasthan and introduced the folk folk talent from there to my santoor which was later remixed with Deep Forest’s electronic. They have a unique style so I made sure that my music could inspire Eric and that he can relate to. After India, which country do you wish to visit and explore? Eric: Actually I’m currently engaged with release preparations of ‘Deep Africa’ which follows the cultural roots of various nations in Africa. So probably will visit those countries, and after the amazing experience in India I am really excited to see what Africa has to give me.

In conversation

G lfer

par excellence From golfing greens to blue skies: Randhawa feels as comfortable doing a sky jump or going underwater as swinging his golfing club. WOR D S

S h eelpa

he contrast is too stark but ace golfer Jyoti Singh Randhawa manages it with consummate ease. A man of many interests, Randhawa delves as much into adventure sports like sky diving, scuba diving and biking to name a few as he has established himself in the gentleman’s game of golf. Coming back from an over three-month break owing to a fracture in his right little finger followed by a back injury, the Chandigarh golfer plans to return to the international circuit with European Tour’s Avantha Masters tournament at the Jaypee greens Golf Club. Randhawa utilized the break to quench his thirst for adrenalin pumping activities before busying himself at greens in a bid to earn a ticket to the 2016 Olympics in Brazil. You were out of the golfing scene for around three months. What kept you busy

Kot ha ri

S or t i

and did the break affect your form and fitness? I am a great lover of adventure sports like sky diving, scuba diving, biking and snorkeling. I am also trying to increase my performance in sky diving and have a collection of bikes at my Gurgaon house. In last few days, I have pursued my love for adventure sports in Bhopal and in Andamans. As for the question of form and fitness, it has really plummeted. Three months is a long time. I am now working hard to get back into shape and regain my match fitness. What is your take on introduction of golf in the next Olympics Games at Rio de Janeiro in 2016? It will really be great for the game of golf. I am very excited about the prospect and am looking forward to be in the top 100. World’s top 64 golfers April 2013 110 www.spiceroutemag.com

In conversation

I have pursued my love for adventure sports in Bhopal and the Andamans will qualify for the Olympics but there are three more years and I will try hard not only to stand a chance to represent India but also to win a medal in Olympics. I am planning to have a busy season. I will try to play as many tournaments as possible to enhance my qualification chances. (Randhawa has ranked in the top 100 of the Official World Golf Ranking several times between 2004 and 2009.) You have achieved a lot so far, what keeps you going? I have made my money. I have made my lifestyle the way I want it to be for the rest of my life, I don’t have to do it any longer. Internally, of course, there’s a fire in me, and I want to perform, so I perform well. You also took part in National Shooting Championships. Would you ever contemplate it as an alternative sporting career? I am passionate about shooting because I was always in possession of guns as I belong to an army background. I took part in the National Shooting Championships last year but I could not participate this time around at Chandigarh. But it’s sure not an alternative career option for me.

How will you explain your love for adventure sports vis-à-vis slow-paced game of golf? Golf is a game which requires immense focus and concentration. So I want to let out all my extra energy and draw a balance and relax by trying out different adventure sports. I am first an adventure sports lover and then a golfer. How do you manage to spend time with your family? I stay with my son Zorawar whenever Chitrangda is busy in her acting schedule. But our son is coping well and is very happy. My break gave me some great bonding time with him. He’s going to be six now. He loves shooting and golf both and practices with me. We spend some very good time at our new Gurgaon house. How do you rate Chitrangda’s acting? Which kind of role do you want to see her enact? I thing she is doing very good. I like all her films. I like everything she does. But I think she can work on her expression of moods in variety of ways. I think she is good in all kind of roles.

How has Chitrangda changed since her acting career started post-partum? We both are very much into our professions at the moment. We are not able to meet each other as much as we want to. And we have a son, so we try and match our schedules as much as possible. And these days, more often, I am staying at home, taking care of our son as she has a lot of work. Being a globe-trotting

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golfer, which are your favourite travel destinations? I always liked travelling since my childhood days and was amazed about my golfer cousins touring for golf tournaments. That was one of the major reasons I picked professional golf. Besides, I realized that I was enjoying it too. I like to travel to Europe in summers and in India - Andaman and Nicobar islands is my favourite destinations for obvious reasons, that is adventure sports.

Glam world

e live in an era where appearances make a huge difference, be it for job interviews, acceptance in social circles or simply for that feel-good factor. When it comes to enhancing our appearance, we need to create a look that is comfortable but also says the right thing about us.

Crowning glory The fact that the look should be complimentary to your personality forms the most important criterion in this regard. Based simply on appearance, people will draw their conclusion about you within minutes an encounter. So, if you are looking at making the best impression, you must put in substantial effort and thought into your look and style. Easier said than done, because I am sure a lot of people may already be thinking, “Yes, but I have restrictions, I want to keep the length” or “I don’t want colour”.

Cut &

colour

A few fringes here and a strand in colour of your choice is all that is needed to give you that all new look. WORDS

R od

An ker

April 2013 114 www.spiceroutemag.com

Glam world

Whether you want to change your look or hide those few grey strands, colouring is the perfect solution

like one big ball. Avoid chin-length hair and box-like fringes. The ideal length would be just past your collar bone with weight and bulk only visible on ends, keeping the sides and top as flat as possible.

Square face But this is not about making drastic changes; most of the time, it is small changes that make a big difference. Oneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s hair is like a hat. Think about it, there are some hats that look good on you and others that make you look a little foolish. It is the shape that we wear on our head that adds or subtracts from the overall personality. So, it is important that a thought must be given

to the most suitable shape that you wear. So, instead of complicating the matter, let us look at basic face shapes so as to get a better understanding of the issue.

Round face With a round face, we need to try and get as much angle in the shape of your hair as possible. Anything that stops at chin length will add weight to your look and make it look April 2013 116 www.spiceroutemag.com

With the same thought process, we need to soften the square face look so that you do not end up looking like a boxer from some Baltic state (unless thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s the look you are after). Again, you need to avoid adding to the square look, and the length needs to be longer than the chin to prevent adding to the shape. The length should at least be below the collar bone (the longer the better), and if you want to have a parting, it should be at the sides. The fringe should also be side sweeping and not solid.

Glam world

Long face If you have a long face, you have to be careful not to make your face look any more stretched. People with long faces should avoid centre parting at all cost because it will only drag them down. If you are tall, you should be aiming for a length that is between your collar bone and a chin that has fullness at the sides.

Hit Trends Long face: Avoid centre parting Square face: Length needs to be longer than the chin Round face: Avoid chin-length hair and box-like fringes Colours: Moroccon Red, Desert Earth brown, Dark caramels

However, we have to take face shape, body type, personality, hair texture, skin tone and hair care regime into account before coming up with something that works well for you whilst keeping the maintenance as low as possible.

Colour code Today, coloured hair is all the rage. Whether you want to change your look or hide those few grey strands, nothing can make your appearance look as appealing better as coloured hair. And the wide range of variety readily available in the market will only spoil

April 2013 118 www.spiceroutemag.com

you further. However, when it comes to choosing the right colour for your hair, there are so many things you need to be careful about. The colour should compliment your skin tone rather than conflict with it. The colour tone is of prime importance and has to be thought of carefully. If your skin is of a cooler shade, then an overly warm tone will not look good. If you have a subtle personality and want to change it, then you should go for a colour that is far from the base colour. A little effort and understanding of style can bring about great changes in look, not to mention the huge ego boost that the makeover can bring about. With the right cut and choice of colour, you can make all heads turn towards you. So go ahead and give yourself that muchneeded killer look.â&#x20AC;&#x201A; The writer is director, Monsoon Salon

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Glam world

Trailblazers of

tomorrow

The automobile industry is getting futuristic with each passing day. We bring you some wheel power from days to come. WORDS

Hari

G ov i n d

N a ir

April 2013 120 www.spiceroutemag.com

ver the last few years we have seen some amazing designs at the Michelin Challenge Design. With the brief for the 2013 challenge being to create mobility solution that are lightweight, yet safe and comfortable, letâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s find out what the best design solutions are like...

Vibe by Vruttant Phatak, India Capable of taking on city as well as off-road terrain, this dexterous machine owes its nimbleness to its four-wheel steering system with modular wheels â&#x20AC;&#x201D; that can be maintained and replaced easily. This, combined with a clean propulsion system, reduces localized pollution. Considering the focus of lightweight construction, the Vibe blends bamboo with modern polymers for its space frame and body. The cross section of the frame is triangular, which is one of the most stable formations in structural engineering. The body is a threelayered skin wrapped tightly around the space frame, resulting in a safe lightweight construction. Logical, innovative solutions for the wheels and better steering capabilities, maneuverability and suspension, make the Vibe a practical solution for tomorrow.

elinK by Jorge Biosca, Spain Clinching a spot among the top three winners of the design challenge, the elinK is an unusual looking mobility concept from Spanish designer Jorge Biosca. Meant for six passengers, this light structure vehicle has a highly efficient powertrain that has been combined with an adaptive camber control for tire rubber zone selection. The main body of the elinK is a pre-stressed structure containing a single outer ring and six tensioners at each side with an additional one in the passenger floor. The tensioners are pre-stressed to achieve a rigid assembly with minimum weight. This concept combines an electric engine, shock absorber and electric steering in a compact mechanism. With four engines and independent steering work, it seamlessly satisfies the need for security and comfortable drivability.

PolyPlus by Song Wei Teo, Singapore Inspired by vacuum-formed plastic packaging that guarantees the safety of its contents, this design concept, too, secured a place among 121

Glam world

Clockwise from above: elinK, an unusual looking mobility concept from Spain; Dolphin, the lightweight concept; Exploder can reach high speeds with minimum energy

battery, running costs are way lesser than with traditional machines. Apart from minimising space, it also uses air for many mechanical functions, such as to provide ride comfort, driving safety, movement of the doors, and even for serving as a floatation device if you happen to fall into a water body.

Bemoove by Andrea Filogonio, Italy

the top three. It cuts down on weight issues by using aerospace-spec carbonate plastic — a strong and lightweight material that has never been used by the automotive industry. The PolyPlus’ designer also suggests using a vacuum to form the body of the vehicle in order to eliminate the added weight of the chassis structure of contemporary vehicles.

Dolphin by Shun Liu, Gao Zhiqiang & Chen Zhilei, China Three autombile technology and design enthusiasts from China, Shun Liu, 20, Zhiqiang Gao, 23, and Zhilei Chen, 26, put together this fluidic fantasy that was also one of the top three winners. This lightweight concept

could well be the sports car of the future. The Dolphin’s body is made up of transparent glass and a carbon fibre frame that not only make the structure lightweight and secure, but also greatly reduce energy consumption. At the heart of this machine, beats a lighter, more eco-friendly version of the dual-stator maglev engine, which is low on emission and high on efficiency.

Air Car by XiaoQuan Qian, China Designed by a Chinese industrial designer, the Air Car deflates its body when not in use — a property that reduces its parking space as well as body weight. As it is powered by a April 2013 122 www.spiceroutemag.com

This lightweight creation’s main frame has been built in carbon fibre with controlled deformation so as to function as the primary suspension system. But the real revolution is in the cab frame — inflated with high-pressure air, it rests on the carbon fibre base. It is linked to the main frame by shock absorbers made of carbon fibre and polymer. The steering device is a rubber-Kevlar back wheel moved by electric engines. Controlled torque is applied to the support-case of the wheels to make the two main frame arms free to swing and accommodate curves and uneven ground. Traction is provided by four rubber-Kevlar tires which rotate independently forward or backward on their guides, powered by four electric motors positioned in the main frame, so as to maximize traction and minimize turning radius.

Glam world

Clockwise from above: He2lios is high on security; Bemoove from Italy; Soma the versatile vehicle

XLeaf by Wei & Lutayo, China This intriguing concept is inspired by the shape and biological abilities of green leaves, ivy, the gecko and the lotus. Its tyres can stick onto vertical surfaces, which gives it easy access to untapped parking spaces like walls and pillars. The X-Leaf runs on electricity produced by a bio-engine that contains chloroplast which transforms solar energy to electric energy. The only fuel needed is water and sunshine. The working of this engine is similar to the biological reaction during photosynthesis, but a million times more efficiently than a leaf. The XLeaf ’s body structure is based on biological streamlines and made of lightweight elements. By incorporating lotus-like bionics such as micro-level nanoscale prominences, the vehicle can keep its body clean at all times.

Exploder II by Cristian Polanco, Guatemala Built with material that can be easily reused in new or different applications, this electric SUV is very lightweight, which allows it to

reach high speeds with minimum energy consumption. The Exploder II has a four-wheel drive system, with each one being powered by an individual electric motor that controls the vehicle’s direction linked to the steering wheel by a wireless system. The wheels allow the vehicle to rotate on a pivot point that is located at the centre of the vehicle. The main body of the Exploder II is made of stretched lightweight tensile fabric with integrated thin film solar panels on a tubular structure made of thermoplastic composite materials. These new materials are tougher, lighter, stiffer, have an infinite shelf life and can be recycled.

He2lios by Lucas Hernan Lopez, Argentina Made of light alloys and semi-flexible panels with excellent structural memory, He2lios allows a ‘temporary deformation’. This will raise the level of security in an accident rounding up passengers in a ‘soft environment’ but allowing to recover the initial shape and strength of the structure. Equipped with four April 2013 124 www.spiceroutemag.com

independent electric motors, He2lios can switch between AWD, FWD or RWD depending on the need. Its tyres — designed on the principle of ‘spongy tissue’— are composed of internal symmetric clusters, and can be used empty or filled with helium to lighten the weight.

SOMA by the SOMA Team, Japan This versatile vehicle comes with a unique sports mode, which on activation, reduces air resistance. The roof height can be adjusted by controlling the tension of the carbon wire fixed at the rear-end of the roof. In comfort mode, the roof rises and enables one to relax in a larger interior space. Soma’s air suspension system is built inside its wheels, made of a lightweight alloy and weighs less than half of the traditional suspension systems. The wheel diameter changes according to the speed of the vehicle. At low speeds, the tyres become small, prioritising accelerating performance, while on high speeds, they enlarge — placing more value on fuel efficiency.

Well being

10 tips to

drop Kilos

Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t get discouraged about weight loss. Feel motivated with these quick and practical weight loss tips that can get the needle moving on the scale.

1) Eat fruits and vegetables you've never tried before

1 April 2013 126 www.spiceroutemag.com

Find a variety of low-carb (and low-calorie) non-starchy vegetables at your local supermarket. Today the market is flooded with healthy options that will keep those extra calories at bay. Choose what you eat carefully and sheading those extra kilos will not look so far fetched.

Well being

2) Walk it off Thirty minutes of walking burns about 150 calories – and you don’t have to do it all at once, says Ajay Saxena, a personal trainer. Briskly stroll to a nearby park to eat your lunch and park your car far from the mall entrance, he says. Instead of watching your grandchildren’s sporting events on the bleachers, watch while walking around the cricket ground. You can indulge in the sport too. Be sure to check your feet before and after walking and always wear sneakers to protect them from injury.

3) Sleep longer It’s tempting to stay up late when it’s a night out. But when University of Chicago researchers restricted 10 dieters’ sleep to less than six hours a night, they lost only half the amount of fat (and more muscle) than when they got more than eight hours. Sufficient shut-eye is also a key for blood glucose control.

4) Enlist the pros Make an appointment with a dietitian or nutritionist to work up a meal plan that can help you lose weight. And if you haven’t exercised before, have your health care provider time your meal and medication

Check your feet before and after walking and always wear sneakers to protect them from injury

April 2013 128 www.spiceroutemag.com

Well being

5 schedules to your workouts. Do not give in to temptations and follow your diet with complete dedication. Do not add those extra cups of tea with sugar inbetween.

5) Encourage your best friend to move with you

Long ago, a study from Indiana University found that married couples who exercise together are much less likely to quit than those who work out solo. Consider nightly after-dinner walks for two, or take up a twoperson sport such as tennis.

6) Fill up on fruits and veggies

Reduce your calories (and carbs) by sprinkling strawberries or blueberries instead of croutons onto green salads and mixing lots of chopped colourful sweet peppers, celery, and cucumbers into comfort foods such as potato salad. Go to diabeticlivingonline.in or facebook.com/diabeticlivingindia to try delicious comfort foods that are low in calories.

7) Make beans the star of your meals Loaded with fibre and protein, beans are such a low-calorie, healthful carb choice (a 1/2-cup serving has 15 grams carb) that the American Diabetes Association recommends several bean-based meals each week. Use them in wraps, tacos, salads, or basic alu-beans sabzi. April 2013 130 www.spiceroutemag.com

Well being

9 8

Loaded with fibre and protein, beans are a low-calorie, healthy carbohydrate choice 8) Lift light weights Strength training several days each week tones muscles (which use lots of glucose) and can help control your diabetes. Start with light weights -- 5 pounds or less -- and get instructions from exercise videos, a smartphone app, or a gentle class or program. Remember to test your blood glucose before you start and after you are done. Also, drink water during the workout to avoid dehydration.

9) Trick your taste buds If you usually have a bowl of ice cream, swap it for a sweet fruit (or at least eat half as much ice cream and top it with banana slices). Or have light microwave popcorn instead of

chips. Exchange high-calorie trail mix for a homemade version: Toss baked wheat or oat cereal with a handful of nuts and raisins.

10) Turn off the TV A recent review of more than 50 studies confirms that too much screen time is linked to consuming fattening fast foods, energydense snacks, and high-calorie drinks. Plus, you donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t burn many calories sitting on the couch. If you are the one who cannot do without some music or entertainment, it is better to turn towards the radio or music playing at the background. Have music on while you carry out your daily household activities. With less number of hours on the sofa, you are bound to knock off those extra kilos.â&#x20AC;&#x201A;

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Culture canvas

Time for revival The old order changeth, giving way to the new. But why worry when old wine can be served in new bottles? WOR D S

Pa ll avi

S i n gh

ll of us are familiar with the old adage that goes â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Make new friends but donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t forget the old because new is silver but old is goldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;. Living in India both in the pre and post-liberalisation days, one cannot fail to notice the sweeping changes that India has undergone in terms of advancement in science and technology, food habits, fashion and even lifestyle that has percolated into our households on a day-to-day basis. We have April 2013 134 www.spiceroutemag.com

shifted from eating paranthas to pasta and spaghetti. We have moved on from Vimal and Raymonds to Zara and Mango; our salwar kameezes have given way to jeans and leggings. However, lately there seems to be a reversal in the existing order, and society at large has come to realise the significance of what we already have. It has, in fact, learnt to make better use of things that we had forgotten a while back.

Culture canvas

vogue. Vessels that were used by our grandmas to make dishes are being driven out of closets and increasingly being used. In many homes and some hotels, copper utensils have made a comeback in a major way thanks to its healing properties. It is said that drinking water in a copper glass after having kept it overnight is a wonderful way to have absolutely purified water since the metal is known to eliminate all disinfectants and the water becomes absolutely pure. If you have ever had the chance to have biryani made in a copper utensil, the way it was made in the past, you would agree that the vessel is the best suited for the preparation and tastes the best. The khansamas of some of the Mughlai restaurants in the old Delhi area or in towns like Lucknow and Hyderabad have stuck to this kind of a vessel both for cooking and serving despite the multifarious options that made their way to households in all these years. Drinking tea in kulhar is a divine experience, and we have restaurants that serve tea, chaanch and other beverages in these terracotta cups for a native feel. The Great Kebab Factory at Hotel Radisson Blu serves

Clockwise from above: Today, fancy hukka adorn houses; a beautiful Benarasi saree; booti work on a dress by an Indian fashion designer

Indian breads on what is called a soop (kitchen product made of bamboo and usually used in villages for segregating the rice from the shaff). Of late they have sneaked into five star hotels too. So much for authenticity! Well in the days of laser lights, it is the modest lalten (lanterns) that have made a comeback in a major way. They have become a fashion statement and using them as a decoration piece seems to have found favour with people today. The Cibo restaurant in the Delhi boasts of pizzas made in wood-fired ovens as against electric ovens giving it an authentic taste. And which lady doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t like candle-lit dinners. Did you know why? Of course, we donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t want to save on electricity. It is simply because its the most romantic way of dining together.

All about reinventing Lets talk fashion because this is one arena where reinventing tradition is the new buzzword. Anarkali suits with multiple pleats, are again a rage amongst women today, and fashion designers have lapped it up like never before. The sharara, womenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s lowers with

Chanderis, booti work, paisley work, Benarasi sarees, Jaamdaanis are back in the fashion circuit

Back with a bang Ethnic is the new chic. Today, furniture made of cane or bamboo are a rage. One can sight a centre table in a drawing room resting on a trunk of a tree cut to size, made fashionable by placing a cut glass on the top. Flower vases are not brass or silver anymore, most of these are laden with a rustic look, of that of a natural bark of a tree. Wooden floors are in vogue. Houses that have tilted roof tops lined with burnt red terracotta bricks are considered cool. Hanging a chik made with thin bamboo sticks have replaced the curtains in most homes for its style as well as its cooling properties especially in summers. Homes with wooden machias, chatais and rocking chairs like the one used by our grandfathers are back in April 2013 136 www.spiceroutemag.com

Culture canvas

flared bottoms that was seen in Bollywood movies in the late 60s and early 70s have made a comeback. Dhoti salwars, leggings, Kantha embroidered sarees and suits are back in vogue. Ikkat that traces its origin to Odisha has found favour with the new fashion designers and has even found takers on the international front. Chanderis, booti work, paisley work, Banarasis and Jaamdaanis are back in the fashion circuit. If you thought that Kanjeevarams and Pochampallis are outdated think again. Here we have Vidya Balan making a fashion statement with a traditional Madras silk saree on her wedding day. And nobody can ever miss out Bollywood diva Rekha who is brand endorser of traditional Kanjeevarams. Jewellery the most loved accessory of women and have always been a significant part of their attire has seen numerous designs, and various twists and turns. But nothing to beat the value of jewellery that existed in the days of the yore. The side tiara (a jewellery for the head) has made a comeback at weddings. Bollywood of course glamorised the same after Kareena Kapoor wore it for the song in Agent Vinod and reinvented not only the

jewellery but also the dance form Mujra in the movie. The ‘Dream Girl of Bollywood’ Hema Malini once said that she loves traditional jewellery and has preserved them for her daughters’ sake. The kardhani (gold waist belt), wooden bangles, Kolhapuri chappals are back in style. Jute has made a re-entry in the world of fashion. Jute fabrics and bags are popular amongst the art aficionados and fashionistas. What Bipasha Basu has done with her Bidi Jalaile or Katrina Kaif did with Chilam chadha ke in the song Chikni Chameli is partly to create a passion for Hukka. It has moved out of the traditional Jaat households to the new age cafes and retro bars. Most of these hotspots in the city boasts of Hukka zones and you can see youngsters fervently engulfed in the hall of smoke, and enjoying every bit of it. Hukka bar infact is one song that is struck in mind of many. Days and years pass and old order changeth giving place to the new but remember life comes a full circle.

Give your kitchen that Sleek look

leek, the kitchen specialist has grown as a renowned brand for over 15 years in the industry. Sleek, has everything that a modern homemaker needs and desires. Gone are the days when the kitchen was the last thing to be considered while renovating your home. The demand for a designer kitchen reflects your fine taste and sophisticated lifestyle. For a homemaker who spends half her day in the kitchen, deserves a change and these Modular Kitchens promise complete transformation from a routine cooking space to one that looks inviting.

Mortars and pestles made of copper and brass are now used in many households

Since Sleek is into appliances, the old-age appliances have gone in for a toss. Consider a chimney that not only looks urbane, but also matches up with revolutionary technology. Sleek chimneys come with high-suction capacity and low noise that leaves your kitchen totally smoke-free. Another marvel from Sleek, the Kitchen Specialist is its sturdy range of hardware. Drawers with soft-closing technology for easy pull and push, lift-up flaps that open upwards to prevent collision, telescopic channels with

Surging forward with an eclectic range of shutters, Sleek, the kitchen specialist provides vibrancy and liveliness to an otherwise drab kitchen. Shutters in solid wood, MDF, marine ply and particle board, with finishes in Veneers, Membrane, lacquered, and glass will leave you spoilt for choice.

April 2013 138 www.spiceroutemag.com

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ease in operation—all this and more from the kitchen specialist. Moreover, the specialist understands the needs of new-age Indian thoroughly. Precisely why, it has tied up with the world’s best brands like GRASS (Austria), LAMP (Japan), SIGE, TERIM, TECNOINOX (Italy) to bring in the class and sophistication of international products to Indian kitchens. Recently, the brand won two prestigious awards – the Kitchen Retailer of the Year 2012 at Kitchen Congress and The Most Preferred Kitchen Brand 2012 at Indian Home Congress.

Culture canvas

Food for

thought

Though traditional book lovers will always crave for the smell of yellowed pages, one cannot deny the all-too-obvious convenience of online libraries. WOR D S

M e gha

S ha rma

eing an avid reader with some old-world fixations can be difficult to sustain in today’s age, where everything has gone “e”. If you are a book lover who swears by the touch, feel and smell of an elegantly bound copy but laments frequent trips down to that not-so-conveniently located library in the neighbourhood, rue no more! Welcome to the world of online bookstores and libraries.

doesn’t it? With free home delivery within 24 hrs, the freedom of reading your chosen titles at your own pace and no concept of a late submission fee, these online book rental portals seem to be leaving no stone unturned to provide the urban city dweller an all-inclusive experience. Convenient and customisable plans ensure there is something to suit everyone’s needs and pocket.

No flipping, only clicking

Says Rahul Maskara of bigbooks.co.in, an online library that serves book lovers in the Maharashtrian cities of Mumbai and Pune, “Currently we offer close to 1.5 lakh title to our

A choice of many titles, pick-and-drop facility and a world of hassles saved for a marginal amount of `200-300 per month. Sounds ideal,

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readers, spread across 11 categories and over 100 sub-categories. This database is constantly expanding to include members’ feedback and latest releases.”Rahul pegs affordability, a wide range of choice and mint quality of the books as their prime USP. Another online library that is delighting readers across the cities of Mumbai, Pune and Bangalore is librarywala. com. With over 30,000 titles to choose from, librarywala.com also offers books in Hindi, Marathi and Gujarati languages. Literary aficionados up north need not despair. Online circulating libraries like

Culture canvas

Saama and Book Me a Book, promise to keep book lovers in the National Capital Region occupied, and pleasurably so. Saama, which stands for the owners’ motto Sailors Achieve a Milestone Always, offers over 10,000 volumes ranging from latest best-sellers to timeless classics. Bringing to you 50 years of experience at your doorstep is Ram Gopal Sharma & Son’s bookmeabook.com. One of the oldest circulating libraries of Delhi, Ram Gopal Sharma & Son served over three generations of the National Capital region’s readers before turning e-savvy to suit the needs of the younger generation of book lovers.

High on convenience and rich in choice, the time-saving and hassle-free online library is here to stay

Delivering in New Delhi, Noida, Gurgaon and Faridabad, bookmeabook.com offers you a varied range of over 20,000 titles to choose from. A market that has growth written all over it, most players in the online circulating library arena are poised to expand and expand big. “We are looking to expand to all metros by end of year. Our long term vision is to be able to serve across the country,” says Rahul Maskara, Proprietor, bigbooks.co.in. “This trend is fast catching up with the young and old alike. It is the easiest way to get your favourite read at your doorstep, when you want and for however long you want,” gushes Niyaaz Nayani,

S&P: Transforming space

&P has always focused on the larger picture of creating living spaces instead of simply building apartments. It believes in innovating and exploring new avenues at every given opportunity. Enabling the company to give their customers a better lifestyle along with homes that set the quality standard, it is this vision that has enabled S&P to develop 5.5 lakh sq.ft. of land within just five years of their existence. Driven by Mr. S. Prabakar, Managing Director and guided by his father, Mr. S.V. Sriramulu, Chairman, S&P is all set to re-define urban living in India. Drawing from their large land bank, located in prime locations across Chennai city and valued at Rs.2000 crores, the company started

an avid book lover from Mumbai. High on convenience, rich in choice, time-saving and hassle-free; the online library is definitely here to stay.

Academics made easy What is interesting is that it is not only fictions that have gone online, but there are many educational books which have gone on the web too. There are companies who provide interactive educational eBooks and test preparation content to students. With chapter level highlights, followed by revision and subject-wise tests, these are a complete tutorial modules; all at the comfort of your house and time available. Soumya Banerjee, CEO of Attano, (India’s first Interactive Educational eBook store) says they are committed at creating a smarter generation of students. “Every student has their own pace of learning which is not realized. Classroom learning or personal tutorials may not always be sufficient for some students to learn better. Technology will play an increasing pivotal role in education and the revolution will be centered around some key themes that include intuitive algorithms for personalized experiences, multiple personal devices, low cost-high scale and social learning in times to come.”

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implementing their vision by developing premium living spaces in West Mogappair, Tambaram, West Tambaram and Poonamallee. Some of S&P’s completed projects include S&P Garden, S&P Residency and S&P Lakeview, each of which serves as a testimony to the company’s commitment to innovation and quality.

These modern apartments are located at West Mogappair, just 10 minutes away from Anna Nagar April 2013 144 www.spiceroutemag.com

With S& P you can forget the dull boring buildings that surround you. These modern apartments are located at West Mogappair, just 10 minutes away from Anna Nagar. Spread across 80 acres of lush greenery with easy access to prime spots in Chennai via the 200 ft Chennai Bypass road, S&P Living Spaces has host of modern amenities.

,9769071673

Good samaritans

Give us

an ear

With over 24 million children in India suffering from deafness, the time has come for us to try and bring them into the mainstream. WOR D S

S h eelpa

Kot ha ri

S or t i

April 2013 146 www.spiceroutemag.com

umerous Bollywood films in the past, such as Koshish, Khamoshi and Black, have portrayed the grim reality of the silent world and, more recently, Barfi revived the plight of deaf people before the masses. However, the question about assimilating the congenital deaf population of India into the mainstream continues to remain unanswered till date. Statistics also tell a grave story. Over 24 million children in India suffer from deafness, with four in every 1,000 babies being born deaf. Besides, four more babies are added to this population by the time the baby is two years old due to illnesses or epidemics. It takes hearing aids with a `25,000 price tag or a cochlea implant surgery worth `7-8 lakh to make a child hear. The numbers are frightening indeed but the good news is that a non-governmental organization Cochlea Pune for Hearing and Speech (CPHS) is helping deaf children avail mainstream education and lead a normal life.

Good samaritans

Early start Clinical studies suggest that a child with congenital hearing loss should begin receiving treatment before six months of age. Children treated this early are usually able to develop communication skills that are as good as those of hearing peers. Going by this philosophy, CPHS identifies congenital deaf children with a mission to make them speak and ensure their integration into normal mainstream schools. Since deafness can be detected in children as early as a few hours after birth with modern diagnostic instruments such as an Oto-accoustic Emission (OAE) Analyzer and ABR (auditory brainstem response) system, CPHS emphasizes on early detection and intervention. It is done through camps conducted through the year. In the first phase the babies are screened, tested and short-listed. An ideal programme is prepared to suit the babies, depending on the hearing capacity and age. The programme for newborn babies to three-year-olds comprises an introduction to sound and speech training in front of the mother, so she can develop the speech training in the baby through the rest of the day. A baby usually starts babbling and making sounds (other than crying) from the age of three to six months. But if the baby is deaf, it slowly stops babbling because it cannot hear the sounds. Consequently, by the age of two, it completely loses control over its vocal cords and stops

making sounds or forming words. But if the baby is provided with suitable hearing aids and a trained parent constantly enourages the child to notice lip and face movements, it will continue to babble and make meaningful sounds. Slowly, by the age of two, it starts recognising the difference between the voices of the father and mother and starts articulating simple words.

Scientific assistance Senior ENT specialist and Managing Trustee of CPHS Dr Avinash Wachasunder insists that early detection and intervention is necessary. “Children learn to talk by hearing what others speak. In fact, by the time a child says his/ her first word, it would have been listening to others talk for about a year. So, the longer the child goes without being able to hear sounds and words, the more difficult it would become for it to learn the spoken language,” says Dr Wachasunder, who has been running the NGO for the last 15 years. “If deaf children are not treated till they attain 6-7 years of age, they fail to develop the ability to speak. He/she may never be able to speak because the brain’s development gets near-complete by that age, and its neural plasticity diminishes,” he adds. Maximum development of the human brain takes place by the age of six years when a child acquires different skills such as expression, creativity and vocabulary. However, children who are born deaf are deprived of

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Challenges Over 24 million children in India suffer from deafness A child with congenital hearing loss should receive treatment within six months Even special schools for the hearing impaired are for those of six years and above

Good samaritans

Through its work, the CPHS brings smiles to the faces of children suffering from congenital hearing loss

Maximum development of the human brain takes place in the first six years, by when a child acquires different skills

the best of environment for development because of factors like the non-availability of special preschools for the hearing impaired, specially trained manpower, perseverance and concentrated patience on behalf of parents, societyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s support for the activity and special government schemes to start su ch preschools.

fairly good speech. Even special schools for the hearing impaired are for children of six years and above. All these programmes are running with the participation of well wishers and support from corporate sector as it is very difficult to get any grant for this project either from the Centre or the State,â&#x20AC;? he says.

Dr Wachasunder, who works in a honorary positions with the Sasoon hospital, Pune, and Yashwantrao Chavan Memorial hospital, laments the fact that deafness was the most ignored handicap, and there was hardly anyone coming forward with grants and donations. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We hardly get any grants from government as their programmes for child education covers only those above six years of age. Besides, very few institutions/NGOs work for the allround development of born-deaf children and integrate these speech-deprived kids to normal school for their formal education on attaining

Cost factor

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On the motivation behind taking up such a challenging job, Dr Wachasunder said that he went to the United States for training in cochlear implant surgery in 1997, he realised that the actual operation was but a small factor in the scheme of things. The more challenging task comprised providing early intervention services at little or no cost to assimilate these children into the mainstream. In the United States of America, because of a federal law (the Individuals with Disabilities

With proper guidance, even children suffering from congenital hearing loss will be able to lead a normal life

It takes hearing aids worth `25,000 or a cochlea implant surgery costing `7-8 lakh to make a child hear Education Act), children suffering from hearing loss between birth and 3 years of age have the right to receive interdisciplinary assessment and early intervention services at little or no cost. After the age of three, early intervention and special education programmes are provided through the public school system.

from the Parent Training programme. “We also hold diploma courses for mothers of infants with hearing impairment. This creates awareness among the mothers, besides providing us with much-required additional manpower and empathy as well as sympathy for the children,” Dr Wachasunder explained.

The basic aim of this special pre-school is to prepare deaf children for their integration into normal schools. All the children are provided with hearing aids and they are guided by DTYHI (Diploma in Training Young Hearing Impaired) trained teachers and assisted by support teachers

CPHS is now looking to expand its horizons to neighbouring states like Goa.

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For details e-mail: cochlea_ pune@yahoo.co.in website: http://www.cochleapune.com

Gadget guru

Phenomenal phablets Loaded with mind boggling features and a size to boot, phablets have already carved a niche for themselves in the market. WOR D S

As h i s h

Bhat i a

Karbonn A30 For anybody looking for a phone with massive (5.9-in) screen, this is it. Of course, you will have to turn a blind eye to the lower-resolution (480 x 800 pixel) display. The phablet runs Android ICS. It has a decent build and feels durable. While it is an able performer, there is evidence of some lag at times between screens. The large display is adequately compensated by the chunky 2,500 mAh battery. If size really matters and you don’t mind holding such a large contraption to your ear, the A30 could be a sweet deal for you at this price point.

Spice Stellar Pinnacle Mi-530

Specs: 5.9-in 480 x 800 pixel WVGA display, 1GHz processor, 512MB RAM, 4GB internal memory, 32GB microUSB card slot, Android Ice Cream Sandwich 4.0.4, 8MP rear camera, 1.3MP front camera, microUSB 2.0, 2,500 mAh battery and 280gm weight. Price: `11,300

Micromax A116 Canvas HD

The standout features for this dual SIM phablet are it’s ability to handle 3G plus 3G connectivity. And that is where its “big boy” 2,550 mAh battery backup comes in really handy. The Mi-530 is also one of the few handsets around across all price bands to offer a 5 megapixel front-facing auto camera. Apart from a number of interesting camera modes, the phone offers useful pop-up play, flip to mute and Boot Acceleration features.

One of the best value for money phablets around, these handsets offer more than you can expect for at this price. It has a sturdy build, looks good, and offers peppy quad-core performance with a very sharp and vivid display that works well even outdoors. The camera shoots admirably, especially when it comes to HD video. The images are vivid and sharp in good light. Call quality is average and its battery easily last for a day and a half or more, depending on usage.

Specs: 5.3-in (960 x× 540 pixels) IPS display, 1.2 GHz dual core processor, 1GB RAM, 16GB internal memory, Dual SIM (3G+3G), LED Flash, 1080p HD video recording, 1080p HD video playback, 3G, WiFi 802.11 b/g/n, magnetic, proximity, Gyro and Ambient Light sensor besides a 2,550 mAh battery. Price: `13,999

Specs: 5-in, 1280 x 720 (HD) IPS screen, 1.2Ghz Quad core processor, Android Jelly Bean 4.1.2, 4GB internal memory, 32GB expandable memory, gravity and light sensor and 156gm weight. Price: ` 13,990 April 2013 154 www.spiceroutemag.com

Gadget guru

you run everything with zero-lag. And that includes running the multi/split window applications simultaneously. The heavy duty 2,100mAh battery is impressive to say the least. The device suffers on 480 x 800 display resolution front and it is the most pricey options in this lot. Specs: 5-in, 480 x 800 ( WVGA) TFT screen, 1.2GHz Dual core processor, 8MP CMOS rear autofocus camera, 2MP CMOS front camera, LED flash, accelerometer, geo-magnetic, Proximity Sensor and161gm weight. Price: `20,500

Lava Xolo A1000 Samsung Grand Duos I9082 This is the more affordable, slightly smaller and obviously more impoverished in terms of specs--sibling of the very popular Samsung Note II. The Grand’s well refined and polished TouchWiz Nature UX makes navigating the phone a charm. Its powerful processor helps

A well-built phablet, the Xolo’s One Glass Solution (OGS) display is bright, clear and vivid. The camera performance, functionality and options are commendable for a phone at this price point, even in not very good lighting conditions. Hardcore gamers may feel a bit let down with the 1GHz processor’s performance. Yet, overall the device is very responsive for

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most regular apps and tasks, and the 2,100 mAh battery doesn’t let you down. Specs: 5-in HD 1280 x 720 resolution IPS display, 295ppi, 1GB RAM, 4GB onboard storage, 32GB microUSB card slot, Android 4.1 Jelly Bean, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth 4.0, and microUSB, Accelerometer and 2,100 mAh battery. Price: `13,999

The Chairman, INTEC 2013, CODISSIA G.D. Naidu Towers, P.B. No.3827, Huzur Road, Coimbatore 641 018, INDIA Ph : +91 422 2222396, 2222397 Fax : +91 422 222131 E-mail : intec@codissia.com Website : intec.codissia.com

Silver screen

Films releasing in

April 2013 Upcoming Bollywood caper Ek Thi Daayan Welcome to the world of witches, black magic and horror folklore. Directed by Kannan Iyer, the movie Ek Thi Daayan is said to be first of its kind on a daayan cult. Serial-kisser Imran Hashmi will be seen romancing around three offbeat witches - Kalki Koechlin, Konkona Sen Sharma and Huma Qureshi. The story revolves around the top magician Bobo (Imran) and his hallucination about his dead kid sister. His terrifying childhood surfaces with the fact that daayan had destroyed his entire family and left him an orphan. But there’s worse to come as the daayan promises to return to haunt him forever. The answers will be revealed once the movie hits theatres.

BOLLYWOOD

Chashme Buddoor Release date: April 5 Cast: Ali Zafar, Siddharth, Taapsee Pannu, Divyendu Sharma Director: David Dhawan

Nautanki Saala Release date: April 12 Cast: Ayushmann Khurrana, Kunaal Roy Kapur, Priya Salvi, Evelyn Sharma Director: Rohan Sippy Release Date: April 13 Cast: Emraan Hashmi, Huma Qureshi, Konkona Sen Sharma, Kalki Koechlin Director: Kannan Iyer

I Love New Year Release date: April 26 Cast: Sunny Deol, Kangna Ranaut, R Madhavan Director: Radhika Rao, Vinay Sapru

Upcoming Hollywood caper Holly wood Iron Man 3 Marvel’s “Iron Man 3” pits brashbut-brilliant industrialist Tony Stark/Iron Man against an enemy whose reach knows no bounds. When Stark finds his personal world destroyed at his enemy’s hands, he embarks on a harrowing quest to find those responsible. This journey, at every turn, will test his mettle. With his back against the wall, Stark is left to survive by his own devices, relying on his ingenuity and instincts to protect those closest to him. As he fights his way back, Stark discovers the answer to the question that has secretly haunted him: does the man make the suit or does the suit make the man?

42 Release date: Apr 12 Cast: Harrison Ford, Chadwick Boseman Director: Brian Helgelland

The Croods Release date: Apr 19 Cast: Nicolas Cage, Ryan Reynolds and Emma Stone Director: Kirk De Micco & Chris Sanders

Evil Dead Release date: Apr 26 Cast: Robert Downey Jr., Guy Pearce Director: Shane Black April 2013 158 www.spiceroutemag.com

Release date: Apr 26 Cast: Jane LevyShiloh Fernandez Director: Fade Alvarez

by arun kumar

Book shelf

Interesting reads Oath of the Vayuputras The final in the very famous Shiva trilogy, Oath of the Vayuputras delves deeper in to the life of ‘the Neelakanth’ and concludes when he gets all the answers to the questions he had about his fate, the choices he made previously and karma. The book highlights the phase when Shiva reaches Panchavati where he comes face to face with his friend and confidante Brahaspati. The journey gets all the more interesting when Shiva encounters evil in full glory and is caught in the midst of treacherous people, good and the evil, actions and karma. Shiva seeks helps from the Vayuputras and what happens at the end is worth a read. This racy read highlights the never ending battle between the good and the evil. Author: Amish Tripathi Publication House: Westland Price: `350 Fit Pregnancy If you are pregnant or planning to have a baby, this is the book you must read. The paranoia around the pregnancy can have an adverse affect on the health of the would be mother. Namita Jain, one of the best wellness experts in the country, has penned this guide to a fitter pregnancy that is based on the varied experiences and case studies she encounters on daily basis. The book is complete with healthy recipes, tips on exercise routines, juggling between home and work, eating well, shopping, travel and a lot more. Author: Namita Jain Publication House: Harper Collins India Price: `299 Yours in music Playing out against the myriad backdrops and nine decades of Pandit Ravi Shankar’s life, this book is an unprecedented tryst with the virtuoso as he looks back at his journey from little Robu to Ravi Shankar, from a teen dancer to a maestro, from the East to the West, from a shishya to a guru, while recounting the major influences in his life—most importantly his years with his guru, the grand old man of Hindustani classical music, Baba Allauddin Khan. As an unequalled musician, Pandit ji is applauded by the numerous awards, highest honours from many countries and titles bestowed on him including the Bharat Ratna, five Grammys and eighteen honorary doctorates from around the world. Graphic illustrations: Neelabh Banerjee Publication House: Wisdom Tree Price: `495 I kissed a frog If you love reading chick lit fiction, this is perhaps one of the best new release. Girls arent really made of sugar and spice and everything nice. Well, perhaps some girls are, but those are certainly not the girls you will meet in I Kissed a Frog a collection of wacky short stories, tongue-in-cheek diaries and not so grim twenty-first century fairy tales that turn love and friendship inside out and upside down. Author: Rupa Gulab Publication: Pan Macmillan Price: `250 by nitika bajpayee April 2013 160 www.spiceroutemag.com

Kids corner

Go out and play! It is difficult to take children off television. However with interesting options there is much that they can do. WOR D S

N i t i ka

Ba jpay ee

eep off the television - is the instruction that all parents pass on to their little ones. However many a time, they fail to arrange for alternative options to keep the children busy. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I am getting bored and I have nothing to doâ&#x20AC;? is a common refrain among children. While most kids look forward to some free time, most children dread the thought of not having much April 2013 162 www.spiceroutemag.com

to do. However, a lot is on the to-do-list of children who can make plans with their friends and have a blast together.

Summer fun This is that time of the year when many senior students are through with their exams and are awaiting results. The sudden break

Sports gives them a chance to be active and offers benefits like making friends

in daily routine makes them go crazy. Of course you can take kids out for a holiday, but that would last for not more than 10 or 15 days. After a few days of vacation and doing masti, children would look for ways to stay entertained. Summers are great time for kids to get outdoors and enjoy the long days. During the evenings, children can spend a lot of time outdoors and take advantage of summers by indulging in activities like cycling

and swimming. Or maybe they can actually pursue a hobby or a fun activity that would keep them involved during the day and learn something new. Fun activities or hobbies can actually help you bond with your kids. Maintain a healthy balance of outdoor activities, indoor fun and artistic pursuits that can fuel up the hearty summer holidays. As a parent you would agree that it is very important for children to be active. Sports bestows them a chance to be active and also offers other benefits like improvement in self esteem, make friends and develop sportsman spirit. Instead of lazing around at home, head for the nearest sports complex and try your hand at sporting activities you think you are good at. Sporting activities not only brightens up their days but also educates children and eventually they learn something new. Most sports complexes in every city offer special summer activity sessions, offering courses in judo karate, swimming, basketball, tennis, athletics besides cycling tours and kickboxing. These sporting sessions cater to children of all age groups and provide an enriching experience, which becomes a part of their childhood. So children, ditch all your video games, Playstations and Xboxes and learn something new and interesting. Who knows kids may make a career out of what they learn at this point of time of their lives...

Karate This fun acitivity has been around for ages now. If you live in Chennai and are looking for a karate class for your children, Colt Institute of Karate & Holistic Health is just perfect for you. Affiliated to International Goju Ryu Karate Association, New Zealand and to All India Karate do Federation, the institute trains youngsters and children in karate under the guidance of Grand Master Hanshi Dennis May VIII Dan Black Belt, New Zealand. The institute has courses in which they teach both traditional and sport versions of karate. If you want to quickly attain a black belt, the institute also conducts a two-day residential course, where vigorous practice sessions are organized. Where: Plot no 62, 2nd Floor, M G Road, Vannandurai, Adyar, Chennai - 600020. Email: coltkarate@gmail.comÂ

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Lawn tennis These days children love trying their hand at different sports. Children are involved in sports like soccer, badminton, cricket and basketball at their schools. Try giving tennis a try, the latest sport all children are in love with. Those living in Mumbai can contact Sai Tennis Academy, a veteran in the field of tennis coaching. With about 20 coaches and trainers, children get to learn the game at a quick pace. For all your end to end tennis needs, game knowledge, cost effective world class coaching, Sai Tennis Academy is the perfect place for your child. Where: Vikas Thakur & Deepak Salvi, 2, Neelashri, Opp. Walawalkar Wadi, Aarey Road, Goregaon (East), Mumbai - 400 063 Email: vikas@saitennisacademy.com, deepak@saitennisacademy.com

Basketball Like all games, basketball is also one that is made up of quite a few fundamental movements. When put together, these movements form the basis for play. Learning the basic fundamentals of basketball will make your children equipped with all the necessary knowledge about this game. Ramjas Sports and Mountaineering Institute, situated in the heart of West Delhi is one stop shop for all major games and sports. Under the guidance of expert coaches (former national level players), your children can master the fundamentals of basketball. If you are looking for another sport for your child, the institute is a perfect place as it offers cricket coaching, hockey, soccer, volleyball, tennis and badminton coachings. Your child can feel the rush of adventure here as the sports complex also conducts artificial climbing wall which is 15 metre high. Here, annual and monthy memberships are also available. Though summer workshops offer unlimited fun. Where: 36/17 West Patel Nagar New Delhi Contact: 011-25748929

Games

Mind teasers Solutions HIS LONG-TERM GOAL

NOVEMBER 13, 2011

SPRAIN VIOLIN DOZING MIDDLE REGRET THATCH Becoming the world’s greatest soccer player was this —

Answer :

PRINT YOUR ANSWER IN THE CIRCLES BELOW Now arrange the circled letters to form the surprise answer, as suggested by the above cartoon.

GERRTE

THAT SCRAMBLED WORD GAME

by David L. Hoyt and Jeff Knurek

Unscramble these six Jumbles, one letter to each square, to form six ordinary words.

LIVINO

Find us on Facebook http://www.facebook.com/jumble

LIVINO

ONDZIG

Now arrange the circled letters to form the surprise answer, as suggested by the above cartoon.

PRINT YOUR ANSWER IN THE CIRCLES BELOW

by David L. Hoyt and Jeff Knurek

THAT SCRAMBLED WORD GAME

Find the difference Answer : SPRAIN VIOLIN DOZING MIDDLE REGRET THATCH Becoming the world’s greatest soccer player was this —

NOVEMBER 13, 2011

April 2013 166 www.spiceroutemag.com

Unscramble these six Jumbles, one letter to each square, to form six ordinary words.

GERRTE

HIS LONG-TERM GOAL

CTAHHT

DILMED

ARISNP

CTAHHT

DILMED

Find us on Facebook http://www.facebook.com/jumble

ONDZIG

Zoom in

Enchanting beauty Arunachal Pradesh with its sky touching evergreen hills and whiff of fresh air is soul stirring. PH OTO G R A PHS

S h a Hw a r

H u ss a i n

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2 3

1. Tawang War Memorial still stand tall. 2. Bunkers from the historic 1962 War. 3.Frozen Sela lake on way to Tawang. 169

Zoom in

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2 3

1. A Mompa woman in traditional attire. 2. The colourful gate at Tawang. 3. Far off view of the Tawang Monastery 4. Women devotees at the Monastery. 5. The Bomdila Monastery amidst with hills as the backdrop. 171

Predictions

Forecast for Aprilâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;2013 B y

Dr. Prem Kumar Sharma

Aries Workplace seems to be bustling with activity and your contribution in a project may fall short of expectations. Be discreet with your plans till you finalize all the details. Carelessness on road can lead to minor confrontations or injuries. Make time to rest and destress to improve energy levels.

Taurus Unexpected changes or delays could throw your schedule off gear. Be diplomatic and build a consensus with colleagues as this will ease your workload. Those in the financial field should avoid any distraction and concentrate on e task at hand. A distant relation you are fond of is likely to visit soon.

Gemini Certain events could make you nostalgic and give you an opportunity to resolve old situations with a loved one. Newlyweds facing adjustment problems should remember that compromise requires sacrifices. Some professionals will manage to head for greener pastures. Those trying to repay a loan will be able to raise the resources.

Good Luck Tip: Place three coins in a red envelope beside your computer desk for more business.

Good Luck Tip: Mend the hole in a pocket. It helps money from slipping away from your bank balance.

Good Luck Tip: Hang a mirror above your stove in the kitchen.

Leo Monetary gains will keep you in a good mood. Creative persons will impress clients by presenting original ideas. Unplanned travel can be tiring and boring, so undertake the journey only if you have to. You may want to cut back on associations that are no longer relevant to find some free time.

Virgo An outing with lover will be enjoyable, so plan a long distance tour. Stressful situations at work could cause tense moments but you will manage the situation with your wit and humour. Some of you may plan to upgrade your vehicle towards the end of the month.

Libra Efforts will be required to set a close encounter with a person you secretly admire. Your past achievements on the professional front can encourage you to exploit the present situation to your advantage. Romantic relationships may go through a rocky patch.

Good Luck Tip: Turn on your stove daily for minimum 10 .

Good Luck Tip: If you own a business; try keeping most of your furniture in browns.

Good Luck Tip: Draw four waves with black colour in a chit and hang it at your bedside.

Sagittarius Sudden insights will enable you to make progress on complicated assignments. Certain projects may take longer to materialize, but be patient. Good earning will make you splurge on the romantic front. Spouse will be extra nice and uncharacteristically loving!

Capricorn Do something different to make your lover enjoy your company. Visitors can upset your schedule, so be prepared and keep your mood under control. Some of you may think of taking up a self improvement project, no harm in looking a little more beautiful!

Aquarius Those burdened with work will have to do something about the resulting fatigue and stress. Some of you will need to keep your temper under control, even under provocation.Those lagging behind in studies need to catch up.

Good Luck Tip: Those in the creative field should use more of blues as part of stationary.

Good Luck Tip: Place some yellow flowers or candles in the west area.

Good Luck Tip Any painting with orange base in the dining area is considered auspicious.

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Cancer A PR exercise to get your work recognised by the ones who matter becomes important at this juncture. Workplace colleagues may feel reluctant to share your burden of work, so be at your convincing best! Shopping will be fun, but donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t loosen the purse strings too much. Good Luck Tip: Place a bowl near entrance and drop a penny each time you move in or out.

Scorpio Taking the long term view of your projects will enable you to make important changes and prune out ventures or investments that are draining your resources. Think wisely before loaning money to a friend. Stress cannot be ruled out for some. Health may need attention this month. Good Luck Tip: Small items in red and pink will help with love.

Pisces Take into account unexpected scenarios and situations when making plans as this minimizes the scope for surprises later and will prepare you for any eventuality. Hard work will be required for those looking at enhancing their income. A misunderstanding on the romantic front can leave you tensed. Good Luck Tip: You must keep something in red in your wallet.

Promotion

Goan odyssey

The great Goan landscape is a welcoming change from the hustle and bustle of busy towns. The sun kissed beach, great sea food and the unending music all keeps you enthralled.

oa spoils one with unending options of stay and food. However, a stay at Resort Rio can be all that one can ask for. A deluxe spa resort overlooking the Baga River, the hotel is spread over ten acres of land and boasts of 77 luxury deluxe rooms, 5 royal suites, 33 cozy rooms, 6 one bedroom apartments and 7 luxury villas. So if you prefer the view of the pool overlooking the river, the fields and the sea then the main hotel building is where you should be staying. But if you like a quiet and more intimate holiday then the cozy rooms or villas would suit your requirement. The rooms are tastefully decorated with views to die for. And if like us the first thing you check out in the room is the

bathroom then that’s a real treat, with an indulgent bath tub and a large changing space.

Lots on offer Resort Rio has a lot on its plate. The resort has four restaurants to suit every taste and fancy. Rio CafeBar, is the speciality café and lounge bar. The deserts here are quite something as the hotel has its own bakery chef dedicated to whip up these special delicacies. This delightful and rather airy cafe is a 24-hr wonder so if you’re ever partying late in the area then this is the place to come to for a nice hot meal anytime of the night. It also doubles up as the lounge bar. Pickled Mango, is the all-day dining multi-cuisine restaurant.

Nicely set up, the restaurant has a wide choice. One must never forget to try their Goan fare as it is great to say the least. Pickled Mango is also a very lively restaurant with entertainment happening through the week. There is live music with the lead singer stumming nice English and Goan numbers. And once the boys of Resort Rio set the ball rolling there was no stopping them in the restaurant as each took a turn at the mic and crooned away to karaoke glory! Resort Rio also boasts of an all vegetarian restaurant, Jalsa. Done up in true Rajasthani style, the restaurant has a low seating or `baithak’ as they are known in Hindi. The food is served in a

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With a salon attached, the resort is equipped to satisfy your complete beauty and wellness needs

Promotion

With a saloon attached, the resort is equipped to satisfy your beauty and wellness needs. Apart from all these, the conference facilities can accommodate up to 450 guests theatre style making it the perfect location for trainings and off sites. Their dedicated team of professionals put together special occasions like weddings and banquets that are truly memorable.

traditional manner with bowls, traditionally made of metals like silver, copper or steel. The restaurant boasts of a separate kitchen and an exclusive chef to cater to its Jain and vegetarian clientele. Open for lunch and dinner, Jalsa is an all-you-can-eat veggie delight! Incidentally, Jalsa has also won an award for being the ‘Best Vegetarian Restaurant’ in North Goa. (Clockwise from above) Relax at the spa; The poolside looks stunning in evenings; Standalone cottages maintain privacy; The fluffy beds and plush amenities add to the experience

Mamma Mia, the Mediterranean restaurant at Resort Rio is a great option. The restaurant is by the pool side with its own bar counter, so if you’re in the pool your cocktail need not be too far

away. The restaurant, however, is an open - subject to weather conditions. Sitting by the poolside and taking in the Goan fresh air can be rejuvinating. The menu of Mamma Mia is displayed in Pickled Mango during off season and if its hummus and tabouleh you desire, then you won’t be deprived at all.

Spa zone Resort Rio also has a luxury spa and salon, Zaara, which can be a perfect relaxation zone for all guests. Their fitness centre is fully equipped with modern fitness machines and work out accessories apart from the spa.

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Overall, Resort Rio is a feel-good hotel, where the owner, Anoop Shah, has given his best. Most of the employees here have been hired locally, most of the hotel’s furniture has been made on the premises using the expertise of local craftsmen and almost all their vendors are locals from the area, thereby creating jobs and opportunities for the residents around the resort. There is talk of a hospitality school which Shah plans to start soon that will train a lot of the youngsters in the field so they can either join the resort as trained professionals or work abroad. One can see that a lot of thought has gone into making this property what it is today- an inclusive fun space where people can rest, enjoy and also give back to the community.

Destinations

Destinations Agartala

Ahmedabad

ALLAHABAD

AMRITSAR

Airport: The Singerbhil Airport is located about 12 km away from the city centre. Taxis are easily available from outside the airport.

Airport: Sardar Vallabhbhai International Airport is located 15 km from the city centre.

Airport: Allahabad Airport is located at a distance of 12 km from the city. Taxis are available.

Must See: Kankaria is an artificial lake that dates back to the time of the sultans. The lake has become a crowd puller in recent times.

Must See: The Allahabad Fort, built from the year 1583 onwards by Akbar, stands at the junction of the two great rivers.

Airport: Sri Guru Ram Das Jee International Airport is an international airport, located 11 km from the city.

Must Stay: Ginger Agartala on Airport Road offers convenient accommodation and services.

Must Stay: Experience a stay with all possible contemporary and plush comforts at The Gateway Hotel Ummed Ahmedabad.

Must Stay: Enjoy your time in the great city of Allahabad by staying at Guest House Bungalow, which offers well-furnished rooms.

Aurangabad

Bagdogra

belgaum

Airport: Aurangabad Airport is located at a distance of 10 km from the city centre.

Airport: Bagdogra Airport serves the towns of Darjeeling, Kalimpong and Gangtok. Take a bus or private/ shared taxi to these regions.

Must See: In the heart of the city of Agartala lies the Ujjayanta Palace, a royal house carved and sculpted in Indo-Greek style.

Must See: The dark tunnels, passages, archways at the Daulatabad Fort, 13 kms away from Aurangabad, speak of its history. Must Stay: Hotel Vits is a luxurious business class hotel, located on the Railway Station Road.

Must See: Jallianwala Bagh is reminiscent of the Indiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s freedom struggle and is well known historical site in Amritsar. Must Stay: Enjoy your time in the spiritual city of Amritsar by staying at Radisson Blu, a fine hotel.

Bengaluru

Airport: Belgaum Airport is located Airport: Bengaluru International at a distance of 10 km from the city Airport is located 40 km from the cityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s business district. Taxis, Volvo centre. Taxis are easily available. Must See: Belgaum Fort is a huge buses are easily available from the airport. Must See: There are several tourist fortress situated in the centre of activities that you can engage in Must See: Ulsoor lake is spread the city. Dating back to 1519, the over a huge area and dates back to Darjeeling, Dooars and Siliguri. fort stands tall telling the tales of the time of Kempe Gowda I and II. the era gone by. Must Stay: Situated on the Bihar More in Bagdogra, Marinas Motel Must Stay: Relax at Hotel Adarsha offers a great stay option with finely Palace, situated on the College furnished rooms. Road in Belgaum.

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Must Stay: The Gateway Hotel Residency Road is a perfect stay option.

Bhopal

CHANDIGARH

Chennai

Airport: The Raja Bhoj International airport is located in Bairagarh, 15 km from the city.

Airport: Chandigarh Airport is located at a distance of 8 km from the city centre. Taxis are easily available.

Airport: Chennai International Airport: Coimbatore Airport in Airport is 7 km from the city centre. Peelamedu is located 13 km away from the city. Taxis are available. Must See: Marina Beach is a 12-

Must See: Bhimbetka, located about 50 km from Bhopal, is home to ancient rock shelters, which house amazing cave paintings.

Coimbatore

Must Stay: Revel in royal luxury at the Jehan Numa Palace Hotel in the upscale Shamla Hills area in the city.

Must Stay: Experience a stay with all possible contemporary comforts at the JW Marriott Chandigarh, a plush five star hotel which offers great ambience.

km stretch of pristine beach, the second longest in the world. Must Stay: The Residency is nestled in the shopping hub of the city. It is strategically located near the Airport, Railway station and city Centre. For reservations, please feel free to contact the duty manager on 7401204255.

Colombo

DEHRADUN

Delhi

Dubai

Airport: Bandaranaike International Airport is Sri Lankaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s only International airport.

Airport: Jolly Grant Airport is located some 30 km from the city centre. Taxis are easily available from the airport.

Airport: Indira Gandhi International Airport is located 20 km from the city centre. Pre-paid and radio taxis are easily available.

Airport: Dubai International Airport is a major aviation hub in the Middle East, and is the main airport of Dubai.

Must See: Situated 8 km from the city centre, Guchchu Pani is a beautiful picnic spot.

Must See: The Purana Qila is an old fort or rather the remains of the 16th Century Shergarh.

Must Stay: Madhuban Hotel is a beautiful hotel with aesthetically designed rooms featuring modern amenities and culinary delights

Must Stay: At a convenient distance from the airport and NH8, Lebua New Delhi is a fine 5-star hotel situated in the Dwarka area.

Must See: While in Dubai, check out the Jumeirah Beach a famous beach resort just 15 km from central Dubai.

Must See: Gangaramaya Temple is not only a place of worship for Buddhists, but also a centre for learning about the religion. Must Stay: When you are in Colombo, choose to stay at The Gateway Hotel Airport Garden, near the airport. The hotel is equipped with latest amenities.

Must See: Sukhna Lake is an artificial reservoir and a famous recreational spot.

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Must See: An exciting journey to the centre of a dense forest, brings you to the magnificent Kovai Kuttralam waterfalls, about 37 kms. Must Stay: Le Meridien Coimbatore sets a benchmark in modern luxury and offers a perfect combination of comfort and extravagance for business travellers.

Must Stay: Atlantis The Palm is a luxury resort is located on Palm Island.

Destinations

Goa

Guwahati

Hubli

Airport: Dabolim Airport in Vasco Airport: Guangzhou Baiyun is 30 kms from Panaji, Goaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s capital. International Airport is the main Taxis are available. airport of Guangzhou.

guAngzhou

Airport: Lokapriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport is 25 km from the city.

Must See: Sri Mangeshi Temple in the Priol area is a beautiful temple situated amidst natural surroundings is revered by Hindus.

Must See: The Pearl River flows through the Guangzhou city. Take a boat tour on the river to admire the breathtaking night view of the city.

Must See: Assam State Museum operated by the Assam government is located near Dighalipukhuri tank.

Airport: Hubli Airport is the airport currently serving the twin cities of Hubli and Dharwad in Karnataka.

Must Stay: Bid farewell to your blues and relax at the White Pearl Suites situated near Baga Beach.

Must Stay: Crowne Plaza Science city is a plush hotel, perfect for your stay.

Must Stay: Located in Madhab Nagar, Khanapara, Greenwood Resorts offers a relaxing retreat.

Must stay: Hotel Clarks Inn on the Gokul Road is a modern day retreat complete with all the amenities.

Hyderabad

Indore

Jabalpur

Jaipur

Airport: Jabalpur Airport, also known as Dumna Airport is 11 km from the city centre. Pre-paid taxi services are available.

Airport: Sanganer Airport is 13 km from the city centre. Prepaid taxis are available.

Airport: Rajiv Gandhi International Airport: Devi Ahilyabai Holkar Airport is 25 km from the city. Airport is located at a distance of 8 kms from the city. Must See: Mecca Masjid is a heritage mosque in the old city of Hyderabad, close to the historic landmark of Chowmahalla Palace.

Must See: Rajwada is a remarkable mansion that sings the glory of the heritage of Indore.

Must Stay: Radisson Blu Plaza Hotel, Banjara Hills offers 155 modern rooms with the finest world class facilities.

MUST Stay: Radisson Blu Hotel, located in the heart of Indoreâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s business hub is ideal for the discerning business traveller.

Must See: Situated 25 km from Jabalpur are the mesmerizing Dhuandhar water falls, which call for a visit for sure. Must Stay: Kalchuri Residency is a plush 3 star hotel in Jabalpur.

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Must see: Panoramic view of the city of Hubli, Nrupatunga Betta, 5 km from Chennamma circle.

Must See: Hawa Mahal is a beautiful historical monument, situated near Johari Bazaar. The surrounding area is great for shopping for souvenirs. Must Stay: Gateway Hotel Ramgarh Lodge, Jaipur offers a royal experience.

Destinations

Jammu

KABUL

Kathmandu

Kochi

Airport: Satwari Airport is 8 km from the city of Jammu. Pre-paid taxis are easily available.

Airport: Kabul International Airport, also known as Khwaja Rawash Airport is located 16 km from the city centre.

Airport: Tribhuvan International Airport located in Kathmandu is the only international airport in Nepal. Taxis are easily available.

Airport: Cochin International Airport is situated just 30 kms from the city centre. Taxis are easily available.

Must See: Built in the late 19th century, Bagh-e Bala is preserved and the area around the palace has turned into a large park.

Must See: In the heart of the Kathmandu valley lies Darbar Square, an ancient square strewn with palaces and temples.

Must See: Fort Kochi is a small village located near the large city of Kochi. Fort Kochi is all about untouched picturesque beaches.

Must Stay: Make your stay memorable by choosing to stay at Kabul Intercontinental Hotel.

Must Stay: In the heart of Diplomatic Enclave and Durbar Marg stands Hotel Shangri-La.

Must Stay: Relive the past at Cochin Heritage Home, located just next to the Bishopâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s House in Fort Kochi area of the city.

Kolkata

Kozhikode

Lucknow

Madurai

Airport: Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose International Airport is 20 km from Kolkata city. Pre-paid taxis are easily available.

Airport: Calicut International Airport is located at a distance 25 km from the city centre. Taxis are easily available.

Airport: Chaudhary Charan Singh Airport: Madurai Airport is located Airport is located about 11 km from about 10 km from the city centre. the city centre. Taxis are available. Taxis are available.

Must See: The Marble Palace at Chorbagan is now a museum, home to precious art by Rubens and Sir Joshua Reynolds.

Must See: Krishna Menon Museum is dedicated to diplomat V.K. Krishna Menon, where his personal belongings are exhibited.

Must See: Bara Imam Bara, constructed hundreds of years back when there was a famine, is one of the most popular monuments in Lucknow.

Must Stay: Chrome Hotel on AJC Bose Road offers relaxing in the tech-savvy interiors, latest amenities and fine food facilities.

Must Stay: Choose to relax at the Gateway Hotel, a brand from the Taj Group, situated on the beach road in Kozhikode.

Must Stay: Vivanta by Taj, Gomti Nagar offers splendid standards in accommodation and is equipped with all the modern facilities.

Must See: Amar Mahal looks like a French Chateau. It is now turned in to a hotel and houses rich collections of paintings. Must Stay: Located on the banks of river Tawi, Fortune Inn Rivera is a cosy retreat, perfect for a business stay.

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Must See: Sri Meenakshi Temple is one of the most popular temples in the city that is dedicated to Shiva and his consort Parvati. Must Stay: The Gateway Hotel Pasumalai offers high standards in accommodation and is equipped with latest amenities.

VISAKHAPATNAM

HYDERABAD

BANGALORE

Accredited by NAAC with ‘A’ Grade MHRD ‘A’ Category University Recognized as Research University

GITAM INSTITUTE OF MANAGEMENT

ACADEMIC ASSOCIATES

Destinations

MALE Airport: Ibrahim Nasir International Airport is the main international airport in the Maldives. Must See: Sultan Park and the National Museum, just along from Muleeage is one of the last green spots on the island. Must Stay: Cerulean View Boutique Hotel is one of the best hotels in Male.

Mangalore

Mumbai

mysore

Airport: The Mangalore International Airport is about 20 kms from the city centre.

Airport: Chhatrapati Shivaji International Airport is 30 km from downtown Mumbai. It is advisable to take pre-paid taxis.

Airport: Mysore Airport also known as Mandakalli Airport is the main airport serving Mysore. Taxis are available.

Must See: Take a walk in upscale south Mumbai.Visit Gateway of India, Marine Drive, Church Gate or Colaba Causeway.

Must See: Gumbaz is the burial chamber of Tipu Sultan,his father Haider Ali and mother.

Must See: About 15 kms away from Mangalore city is the Pilikula Nisragadham, a beautiful lake with boating facility. Must Stay: Elegance and luxury go hand in hand at Gateway Hotel Old Port Road in Mangalore

Must Stay: Luxurious home away from home is the plush Novotel Juhu Beach.

Must Stay: Overlooking the breathtaking Brindavan Gardens, Royal Orchid Brindavan is a four star luxury Heritage Hotel.

Nanded

pondicherry

Port Blair

Pune

Airport: Shri Guru Gobind Singh ji Airport or Nanded Airport is well connected to all major cities. Taxis are easily available.

Airport: Puducherry Airport is an airport located at Lawspet in Puducherry. Taxis are available.

Airport: Veer Savarkar International Airport, is located 2 km from the city centre. Taxis are easily available.

Airport: Pune International Airport is situated at a distance of 10 km from main city. Pre-paid taxis and auto-rickshaws are easily available.

Must See: Cellular Jail, a revered shrine dedicated to Indian freedom fighters, is situated at Aberdeen near Port Blair.

Must See: Saras Baug is a major landmark and has a Ganesh Temple. The place is a famous recreational site in the city.

Must See: While in Nanded, must visit Treasure Bazaar for great eating and shopping options. Must Stay: Hotel City Pride is one the best hotels in the city, offering comfortable services and cuisines.

Must See: The stylish French War Memorial, located in the renowned Goubert Avenue, is a monument for those soldiers who lost their lives in the First World War.

Must Stay: The Dune is a Must Stay: Try your hand at fascinating eco-beach hotel situated snorkelling and deep sea diving at in vicinity of the sun-kissed sea. at the Kaala Pani Resort.

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Must Stay: Relax in the lap of luxury at the Four Points By Sheraton, a five star hotel.

Destinations

Rajahmundry

Riyadh

Sharjah

Surat

Airport: The Rajahmundry airport is located in Madhurapudi, 18 kms north of the city.

Airport: Riyadh King Khalid International Airport is located 35 kilometers north of Riyadh.

Airport: Surat Airport is located in Magdala is around 11 km southwest from the city centre.

Must See: Sir Arthur Cotton Museum and the barrage at Dowlaiswaram gives some interesting insights on history.

Must See: The National Museum of Saudi Arabia is a must see. It offers excellent information on Arabia's history, culture and art.

Airport: Sharjah International Airport is situated some 15 kms from central Dubai. Taxis are available.

Must Stay: Simple, elegant and cosy rooms is what you can be sure of at Akanksha Inn which is one of the best hotels in this city.

Must Stay: Four Seasons Hotel Riyadh at Kingdom Centre is a Must Stay: Offering picturesque stylish business and leisure hotel view of the city, Radisson Blu located high in the Kingdom Tower. Resort Sharjah is a nice hotel.

Srinagar

thiruvananthapuram

Tirupati

Airport: Srinagar International Airport is situated some 12 kms from the city centre.

Airport: The Trivandrum Airport is located at quite a central location.

Airport: Tirupati Airport is situated Airport: Tiruchirapalli Airport or at a distance of 14 kms from the Trichy Airport is 5 km from the Tirupati city. city centre. Must See: The holy temple Sri Must See: The landmark of the Venkateswara is considered one of Trichy town is the Rockfort temple, the holiest temple. a beautiful structure perched atop a hillock. Must Stay: Having served some prominent personalities who Must Stay: Situated on the Mc thronged the holy town, Hotel Bliss Donaldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Road, Breeze Residency is serves best comforts and food. one of Trichyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s premier hotel.

Must See: Hazrat Bal in Srinagar on the left bank of Dal Lake is a well known shrine where a hair strand of Prophet Mohammed is treasured. Must Stay: Offering panoramic view of the Dal Lake, Vivanta by Taj is a contemporary hotel.

Must See: The interactive Kerala Museum, opposite the Napier museum, is the first of its kind, with the touch screen terminals. Must Stay: Former home of Royal British Officers, Mascot Hotel is now a heritage hotel, offering luxurious stay and amenities.

Must See: Souq al-Arsah, is one of the oldest souqs in the country and calls for a visit. Visit the traditional coffeehouse to have mint tea.

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Must See: Sardar V Patel Museum and Planetorium represents the rich history and eclectic ethnic mix of Surat. Must Stay: The Gateway Hotel Athwalines in Surat is known for offering plush accomodation along with latest amenities.

Tiruchirapalli

Destinations

Tuticorin

Udaipur

Varanasi

Airport: A domestic airport, it is located 16.9 km from the city.

Airport: Udaipur Airport or Maharana Pratap Airport is situated at a distance of 22 km from the city of Udaipur in Rajasthan, India.

Airport: Lal Bahadur Shastri Airport is 18 km from the city. Taxi and auto-rickshaw services are easily available.

Must See: The Palayamkottai Road area surrounds the Lord Bhagam Priyal temple, Lord Shiva and Lord Perumal temples, WGC road. Must Stay: SRM Hotel offers an enticing home-away-from-home experience with services and rooms.

Must See: The splendid City Palace is one of Must See: Take a boat ride at the Dasawamedh the most beautiful palatial structures in Udaipur. Ghat to enjoy the divine ambience of Varanasi to the fullest. Must Stay: The Leela Palace Udaipur, located on the banks of Lake Pichola, offers a spectacular view of the tranquil lake.

Must Stay: Offering comfortable stay, Clarks Varansi is one of the best options in the city.

Vijayawada

visakhapatnam

Airport: Vijayawada Airport is located in Gannavaram, just 20 km from the city centre.

Airport: Visakhapatnam Airport is located about 7 km from the city centre. Taxis are easily available.

Must See: Mogalarajapuram caves near Vijayawada are among the 3 cave temples known for the magnificent carvings of Shiva.

Must See: Kambalakonda is a wonderful nature reserve, about 20-25 minutesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; away from Visakhapatnam

Must Stay: Haailand Buddhism-based theme park and resort. Haailand is a unique holiday destination that evokes the area and mystique of South East Asia.

Must Stay: The Gateway Hotel, situated on the Beach Road in Visakhapatnam is a comfortable hotel in the city. Enjoy southern delights like dosas and peesarattu here in the port city.

April 2013 188 www.spiceroutemag.com

Routemap

April 2013 190 www.spiceroutemag.com

191

Spice schedule

Destination

Agartala Bengaluru (Via-CCU-BOM) Bengaluru (Via-CCU-HYD) Guwahati Hyderabad (Via-CCU) Kolkata Kolkata Mumbai (Via-CCU) Ahmedabad Bengaluru Bengaluru (Via-BOM) Bengaluru (Via-PNQ) Chennai Chennai (Via-BOM) Chennai (Via-HYD) Chennai (Via-HYD) Coimbatore (Via-MAA) Delhi Delhi Delhi Delhi Goa Guwahati (Via-BOM-BLR-CCU) Hyderabad Hyderabad Jaipur Kolkata (Via-BOM-BLR) Kolkata (Via-DEL) Mumbai Mumbai Port Blair (Via-HYD, MAA) Port Blair (Via-HYD, MAA) Pune Pune (Via-JAI) Allahabad Delhi AMRITSAR Delhi Delhi Delhi Delhi (Via - BOM-STV) Mumbai Srinagar Surat (Via - BOM) Aurangabad Delhi Bagdogra Chennai (Via-CCU) Delhi Delhi (Via-GAU) Guwahati Kolkata Bengaluru Agartala (Via-BOM-CCU)

flight no.

freq

dep

arrival

SG-874 SG-872 SG-873 SG-872 SG-872 SG-874 SG-874

Daily Daily Daily Daily Daily Daily Daily

1630 1540 1300 1540 1540 1630 1630

2250 2115 1400 1925 1645 1725 2045

SG-285 SG-528 SG-345 SG-281 SG-206 SG-917 SG-913 SG-281 SG-104 SG-106 SG-106 SG-138 SG-137 SG-528 SG-917 SG-913 SG-912 SG-528 SG-104 SG-528 SG-206 SG-917 SG-917 SG-345 SG-912

1,3,4,5,6,7 Daily Daily Daily Daily Daily Daily Daily Daily 7 1,2,3,4,5,6 Daily Daily Daily Daily Daily 1,2,3,4,5,6 Daily Daily Daily Daily 1,3,4,5,7 26 Daily 1,2,3,4,5

0935 0555 2120 0550 1905 0610 1850 0550 0630 0945 1010 2000 1435 0555 0610 1850 1125 0555 0630 0555 1905 0610 0610 2120 1125

11,3,5 0920 0040 0810 2305 0940 2150 0950 0755 1120 1140 2125 1620 1405 0755 2025 1235 1220 1040 0655 2010 1225 1,3,55 2250 1440

SG-2358

Daily

1650

1835

SG-2514 SG-2114 SG-2354 SG-152 SG-152 SG-151 SG-152

Daily Daily Daily 1,3,5,7 1,3,5,7 1,3,5,7 1,3,5,7

0825 1555 2045 1615 1615 1310 1615

0945 1720 2205 2245 1850 1410 2015

SG-162

Daily

1940

2130

SG-324 SG-885 SG-881 SG-881 SG-324

Daily Daily Daily Daily Daily

1420 1040 1400 1400 1420

1810 1250 1825 1500 1520

SG-873

Daily

0615

1220

Destination

Agartala (Via-HYD-CCU) Ahmedabad Ahmedabad (Via-BOM) Ahmedabad (Via-PNQ) Belgaum Chennai Chennai Chennai Chennai Chennai Chennai Chennai Chennai (Via-VGA) Delhi Delhi Delhi Delhi Delhi (Via-BOM) Guwahati (Via-BOM-CCU-IXA) Goa Guwahati (Via-CCU) Hubli Hyderabad Hyderabad Hyderabad Hyderabad Kozhikode Kochi Kolkata Kolkata Kolkata (Via-BOM) Kolkata (Via-HYD) Mangalore Mangalore Mangalore (Via-BOM) Mumbai Mumbai Mumbai Mumbai Mysore Pondicherry Pondicherry Pune Pune Srinagar (Via-DEL) Trivandrum (Via-MAA) Tuticorin (Via-MAA) Vijayawada Vizag BelgAum Bengaluru Bhopal Delhi Delhi

flight no.

freq

April 2013 192 www.spiceroutemag.com

arrival

SG-871 SG-286 SG-529 SG-342 SG-3301 SG-3004 SG-3232 SG-1083 SG-3306 SG-3306 SG-3307 SG-3002 SG-3303 SG-502 SG-224 SG-229 SG-216 SG-110 SG-873 SG-245 SG-528 SG-1084 SG-871 SG-1074 SG-1074 SG-1088 SG-1073 SG-2,4,6 SG-528 SG-524 SG-873 SG-871 SG-1023 SG-3231 SG-344 SG-873 SG-344 SG-110 SG-529 SG-3305 SG-3305 SG-1073 SG-342 SG-228 SG-224 SG-3307 SG-1083 SG-3303 SG-1144

Daily 1,3,4,5,6,7 Daily Daily Daily Daily 1,3,4,5,6,7 1,3,4,5,7 1,3,4,5,7 2,6 Daily Daily Daily Daily Daily Daily Daily 1,3,4,5,6,7 Daily 1,3,4,5,6,7 Daily Daily Daily 1,3,4,6,7 5 Daily 1,3,4,6,7 Daily Daily Daily Daily Daily Daily 1,3,4,5,6,7 Daily Daily Daily 1,3,4,5,6,7 Daily 1,3,5 4,6,7 5 Daily Daily Daily Daily 1,3,4,5,7 Daily Daily

1010 1205 1940 0555 0740 0905 1125 1240 1510 1700 1845 2140 1055 0635 0845 1600 2015 1535 0615 1200 0955 1920 1010 1520 1520 2215 1230 1520 0955 1840 0615 1010 0855 1400 1015 0615 1015 1535 1940 1220 1220 1230 0555 2200 0845 1845 1240 1055 0805

1510 1405 2300 0905 0905 1025 1220 1345 1610 1800 1945 2245 1530 0925 1125 1840 2305 1955 1400 1310 1405 2035 1110 1640 1640 2335 1325 1620 1220 2120 1100 1345 0950 1455 1400 0745 1155 1715 2125 1310 1310 1330 0725 2325 1,3,50 2140 1530 1210 0950

SG-3302

Daily

0925

1035

SG-2227 SG-2226

2,4,6 2,4,6

0825 2000

1015 2200

SpiceJet now offers over 150 connections on its existing network For details log on to www.spicejet.com

dep

Destination

Hyderabad Hyderabad (Via-IDR) Indore Chandigarh Delhi Delhi Delhi (Via - BOM-STV) Mumbai Srinagar Surat (Via - BOM) Chennai Ahmedabad Ahmedabad (Via-BOM) Ahmedabad (Via-BOM) Ahmedabad (Via-HYD) Ahmedabad (Via-HYD) Bagdogra (Via-CCU) Bengaluru Bengaluru Bengaluru Bengaluru Bengaluru Bengaluru Bengaluru (Via-VGA) Belgaum (Via-BLR) Coimbatore Coimbatore Coimbatore Delhi Delhi Delhi Delhi Delhi Delhi (Via-BOM-AMD) Delhi (Via-BOM-AMD) Delhi (Via-PNQ) Goa Guwahati (Via-CCU) Hubli (Via-BLR) Hyderabad Hyderabad Hyderabad Hyderabad Hyderabad Hyderabad Hyderabad Jaipur (Via-HYD) Jaipur (Via-HYD-AMD) Kozhikode Kozhikode Kochi Kochi Kochi Kolkata Madurai Madurai Madurai

flight no.

freq

dep

arrival

Destination

flight no.

freq

dep

arrival

SG-1053 SG-1063 SG-1063

1,3,57 2,4,6 2,4,6

2040 1930 1930

2220 2220 2020

Madurai Mangalore (Via-BLR) Mumbai Mumbai

SG-303 SG-3231 SG-106 SG-106

Daily 1,3,4,5,6,7 7 1,2,3,4,5,6

1710 1240 0535 0550

1810 1455 0730 0730

SG-2112 SG-2116 SG-152 SG-152 SG-151 SG-152

Daily Daily 2,4,6 2,4,6 2,4,6 2,4,6

0835 1920 1620 1620 1310 1620

0940 2020 2245 1850 1410 2015

Mumbai Mumbai

SG-273 SG-276

Daily 1,2,3,4

0925 1410

1110 1605

SG-282 SG-106 SG-106 SG-916 SG-912 SG-323 SG-3301 SG-3013 SG-3305 SG-3231 SG-1084 SG-3148 SG-3304 SG-3301 SG-3012 SG-281 SG-323 SG-312 SG-304 SG-306 SG-308 SG-325 SG-106 SG-106 SG-208 SG-1011 SG-321 SG-1084 SG-912 SG-1261 SG-272 SG-1004 SG-1012 SG-916 SG-1265 SG-912 SG-912 SG-3251 SG-3251 SG-289 SG-3241 SG-3243 SG-323 SG-362 SG-291 SG-305

Daily 7 1,2,3,4,5,6 Daily 1,2,3,4,5,6 Daily Daily Daily Daily 1,3,4,5,6,7 1,3,4,5,7 Daily Daily Daily Daily Daily Daily Daily Daily Daily Daily Daily 7 1,2,3,4,5,6 Daily Daily Daily 1,3,4,5,7 Daily Daily 1,3,4,5,7 Daily Daily Daily Daily 7 1,2,3,4,5,6 5 2,4,6,7 Daily Daily Daily Daily Daily Daily 1,3,4,5,7

1150 0535 0550 1955 0710 0955 0615 0740 1035 1240 1805 2015 1415 0615 0655 0845 1840 0705 1140 1655 1850 2020 0535 0550 0515 1410 0520 1805 0710 1100 1530 1745 1920 1955 2125 0710 0710 1030 1330 0755 1040 1905 0955 0630 0830 1335

1410 0915 0935 2310 1030 1,3,50 0710 0845 1140 1340 1900 2120 1710 0905 0820 0950 1940 0940 1420 1935 2150 2305 1120 1140 0930 1615 0925 2035 0815 1210 1640 1905 2035 2100 2255 1110 1235 1150 1455 0915 1205 2040 1210 0730 0930 1430

Mumbai Mysore (Via-BLR) Pondicherry (Via-BLR) Port Blair Port Blair Pune Pune (Via-HYD-AMD-JAI) Pune (Via-HYD-JAI) Tiruchirapalli Trivandrum Trivandrum Tuticorin Tuticorin Vijayawada Vizag Coimbatore Ahmedabad (Via-MAA) Chennai Chennai Chennai Delhi (Via-HYD) Delhi (Via-HYD) Hyderabad Hyderabad dehradun Delhi Delhi delhi Ahmedabad Ahmedabad Allahabad Amritsar Amritsar Amritsar Amritsar (Via - STV - BOM) Aurangabad Bagdogra Bagdogra (Via-GAU) Bengaluru Bengaluru Bengaluru Bengaluru Bengaluru (Via-DEL) Bhopal Bhopal Chandigarh Chandigarh Chandigarh (Via - STV - BOM) Chennai Chennai Chennai

SG-296 SG-3305 SG-3305 SG-917 SG-917 SG-208 SG-912 SG-912 SG-3165 SG-3271 SG-3307 SG-3291 SG-1083 SG-3304 SG-3277

Daily 1,3,5 4,6,7 1,3,4,5,7 26 Daily 1,2,3,4,5 7 1,2,3,4 Daily Daily Daily 1,3,4,5,7 Daily Daily

2010 1035 1035 1020 1145 0515 0710 0710 1030 0555 2005 0715 1405 1415 1710

2155 1310 1310 1225 1,3,55 0650 1440 1440 1140 0745 2140 0835 1530 1530 1900

SG-282 SG-3022 SG-282 SG-284 SG-234 SG-236 SG-234 SG-236

Daily Daily Daily Daily Daily Daily Daily Daily

1020 0850 1020 2010 1030 1810 1030 1810

1410 1015 1120 2110 1430 2210 1150 1930

SG-2413 SG-2325

Daily Daily

1120 1620

1225 1720

SG-206 SG-148 SG-2356 SG-2410 SG-2113 SG-2352 SG-151 SG-161 SG-881 SG-885 SG-501 SG-223 SG-209 SG-509 SG-109 SG-2327 SG-2326 SG-2111 SG-2115 SG-151 SG-301 SG-305 SG-303

Daily Daily Daily Daily Daily Daily 1,3,57 Daily Daily Daily Daily Daily Daily Daily 1,3,4,5,6,7 2,4,6 2,4,6 Daily Daily 2,4,6 Daily Daily Daily

1705 1900 1505 0635 1415 1910 0600 1715 1115 0550 0605 1220 1655 2035 1010 0610 1735 0710 1755 0600 0630 1010 1,3,50

1835 2035 1630 0805 1535 2025 1230 1910 1325 0955 0900 1505 1940 2325 1430 0800 1920 0815 1900 1235 0915 1300 1640

193

Spice schedule

Destination

flight no.

freq

dep

arrival

Chennai Chennai Chennai (Via-AMD-BOM) Chennai (Via-PNQ) Coimbatore (Via-CJB) Coimbatore (VIA-HYD) Dehradun Dehradun Dharamshala Dharamshala Goa Goa Guwahati Guwahati Guwahati (Via-IXB) Hyderabad Hyderabad Hyderabad Hyderabad Hyderabad Indore Indore Jabalpur Jaipur Jammu Jammu Jammu Kochi (Via-BOM) Kochi (Via-BOM) Kochi (Via-HYD) Kochi (Via-PNQ) Kolkata Kolkata Lucknow Madurai (Via-MAA) Madurai (Via-MAA) Mumbai Mumbai Mumbai Mumbai Mumbai Mumbai Mumbai (Via - STV) Mumbai (Via-AMD) Mumbai (Via-JAI) Mumbai (Via-JLR) Nanded (Via-BOM,JLR) Pune Pune

SG-315 SG-309 SG-206 SG-219 SG-211 SG-233 SG-2328 SG-2223 SG-2382 SG-2383 SG-253 SG-255 SG-885 SG-893 SG-881 SG-211 SG-231 SG-233 SG-221 SG-239 SG-2327 SG-2326 SG-2441 SG-133 SG-853 SG-851 SG-857 SG-131 SG-103 SG-231 SG-217 SG-104 SG-607 SG-417 SG-305 SG-303 SG-131 SG-109 SG-103 SG-852 SG-119 SG-894 SG-151 SG-206 SG-133 SG-2441 SG-2441 SG-217 SG-219

Daily Daily Daily Daily Daily Daily Daily Daily Daily Daily Daily Daily Daily Daily Daily Daily Daily Daily Daily Daily 1,3,57 1,3,57 Daily Daily Daily Daily Daily Daily Daily Daily 1,2,3,4,57 Daily Daily 1,3,57 1,3,4,5,7 Daily Daily 1,3,4,5,6,7 Daily Daily Daily Daily Daily Daily Daily Daily 2,4,6 1,2,3,4,57 Daily

1720 1915 1705 2025 0545 1345 1005 1505 1110 1,3,55 1055 1455 0550 1520 1115 0545 0740 1345 1510 1940 0610 1735 0800 0700 0730 0850 1330 0555 1200 0740 0840 0835 2035 1945 1010 1,3,50 0555 1010 1200 1510 1740 2125 0600 1705 0700 0800 0800 0840 2025

1930 2155 2305 0040 1000 1740 1100 1600 1200 1500 1330 1720 0820 1745 1500 0810 0950 1555 1725 2150 0805 1920 0945 0800 0900 1010 1450 1035 1700 1150 1310 1040 2250 2100 1430 1810 0740 1215 1410 1720 1940 2325 0920 2010 1015 1210 1,3,50 1045 2230

Srinagar Srinagar

SG-261 SG-868

6 Daily

0820 1045

0935 1200

Srinagar Srinagar

SG-224 SG-863

Daily Daily

1220 1420

1,3,50 1550

For bookings, visit our website at www.spicejet.com

Destination

flight no.

freq

dep

arrival

Srinagar (Via - STV-BOM-ATQ)

SG-151

1,3,57

0600

1410

Srinagar (Via - STV-BOM-IXC) Srinagar (Via-IXJ)

SG-151 SG-851

2,4,6 Daily

0600 0850

1410 1115

Surat Udaipur Varanasi Varanasi Varanasi Vizag (Via-HYD) GOA Ahmedabad Bengaluru Chennai Delhi Delhi Delhi (Via-AMD) Hyderabad Hyderabad (Via-MAA) Kochi (Via-BLR) Kolkata (Via-BOM) Mumbai Mumbai Guwahati Agartala Ahmedabad (Via-CCU-BLR-BOM) Bagdogra Bengaluru (Via-CCU) Bengaluru (Via-IXA-CCU-BOM) Chennai (Via-CCU) Delhi Delhi Delhi (Via-IXB) Kolkata Kolkata Kolkata Kolkata (Via-IXA) Mumbai (Via-CCU-BLR) Mumbai (Via-DEL) Mumbai (Via-IXA-CCU) Port Blair (Via-CCU) Hubli Bengaluru Hyderabad (Via-BLR) Mumbai Hyderabad Agartala (Via-CCU) Ahmedabad Ahmedabad Bengaluru Bengaluru Bengaluru Bengaluru Bengaluru

SG-151 SG-2437 SG-116 SG-114 SG-127 SG-221

Daily Daily Daily Daily 2,4,6 Daily

0600 1040 0935 1340 1930 1510

0755 1210 1100 1505 2055 1850

SG-138 SG-2,4,6 SG-1012 SG-254 SG-256 SG-138 SG-1072 SG-1012 SG-2,4,6 SG-804 SG-247 SG-804

Daily 1,3,4,5,6,7 Daily Daily Daily Daily Daily Daily 1,3,4,5,6,7 Daily Daily Daily

1650 1340 1640 1400 1750 1650 1415 1640 1340 1650 1330 1655

1830 1450 1845 1630 2010 2125 1545 2035 1620 21,3,5 1440 1800

SG-874 SG-529 SG-885 SG-529 SG-874 SG-322 SG-881 SG-894 SG-885 SG-525 SG-529 SG-322 SG-874 SG-529 SG-894 SG-874 SG-525

Daily Daily Daily Daily Daily Daily Daily Daily Daily Daily Daily Daily Daily Daily Daily Daily Daily

1445 1435 0855 1435 1445 1825 1535 1815 0855 0955 1435 1825 1445 1435 1815 1445 0955

1545 2300 0955 1910 2250 2235 1825 2045 1250 1105 1545 1935 1725 2125 2325 2045 1335

SG-1088 SG-1088 SG-2452

Daily Daily 1,3,57

2055 2055 1430

2155 2335 1550

SG-871 SG-916 SG-912 SG-1031 SG-1023 SG-1073 SG-1073 SG-872

Daily Daily 1,2,3,4,5,6 Daily Daily 5 1,3,4,6,7 Daily

1140 21,3,5 0850 0625 0710 1040 1040 2015

1510 2310 1030 0745 0830 1200 1200 2115

Note Schedule subject to change and regulatory authority approvals. 1- Mon, 2-Tue, 3-Wed, 4-Thu, 5-Fri, 6-Sat, 7-Sun. April 2013 194 www.spiceroutemag.com

Spice schedule

Destination

Bhopal Bhopal (Via-IDR) Chennai Chennai Chennai Chennai Chennai Chennai Chennai Coimbatore Coimbatore Delhi Delhi Delhi Delhi Delhi Goa Goa (VIA-MAA) Indore Indore (Via-BHO) Jaipur Jaipur (Via-AMD) Kochi Kochi Kolkata Kozhikode Kozhikode (Via-BLR) Madurai Madurai Mangalore (Via-BLR) Mumbai Pondicherry (Via-BLR) Port Blair (Via-MAA) Port Blair (Via-MAA) Pune Pune (Via-AMD-JAI) Pune (Via-JAI) Rajahmundary Tirupathi Tirupathi Varanasi (Via-DEL) Vijayawada Vizag Vizag Indore Bhopal Delhi Delhi Hyderabad Hyderabad (Via-BHO) JABALPUR Delhi Mumbai Nanded (Via-BOM) Jaipur Ahmedabad

flight no.

freq

dep

arrival

SG-1063 SG-1053 SG-1262 SG-917 SG-1011 SG-1003 SG-911 SG-1264 SG-913 SG-211 SG-233 SG-116 SG-226 SG-234 SG-108 SG-236 SG-1071 SG-1011 SG-1053 SG-1063 SG-912 SG-912 SG-231 SG-1051 SG-871 SG-1073 SG-1073 SG-3313 SG-3313 SG-1023 SG-402 SG-1073 SG-917 SG-917 SG-1022 SG-912 SG-912 SG-1061 SG-1041 SG-1048 SG-116 SG-1001 SG-401 SG-221

2,4,6 1,3,57 Daily Daily Daily Daily 1,3,4,5,7 Daily Daily Daily Daily Daily Daily Daily Daily Daily Daily Daily 1,3,57 2,4,6 7 1,2,3,4,5,6 Daily Daily Daily 2 1,3,4,6,7 3 1,2,4,5,6,7 Daily Daily 5 1,3,4,5,7 26 Daily 1,2,3,4,5 7 Daily Daily Daily Daily Daily Daily Daily

1710 1710 0600 0830 1230 1605 1710 1935 2055 0840 1630 0645 1030 1220 1415 2000 1225 1230 1710 1710 0910 0850 1020 1930 1140 1040 1040 0915 0950 0710 2130 1040 0830 0830 2030 0850 0910 0935 0720 1700 0645 0705 0715 1755

1910 2020 0720 0940 1,3,50 1725 1815 2115 2150 1000 1740 0845 1255 1430 1625 2210 1,3,55 1615 1910 2020 1110 1235 1150 2115 1345 1230 1325 1115 1150 0950 2315 1330 1225 1,3,55 2200 1440 1440 1040 0835 1825 1100 0800 0820 1850

SG-1053 SG-2227 SG-2226 SG-1063 SG-1053

1,3,57 1,3,57 1,3,57 2,4,6 1,3,57

1930 0825 1955 2040 1930

2020 1015 2200 2220 2220

SG-2452 SG-2441 SG-2441

Daily Daily 2,4,6

1830 1005 1005

2005 1210 1,3,50

SG-913

Daily

1710

1820

Destination

Chennai (Via-AMD- HYD) Delhi Hyderabad (Via-AMD) Mumbai Pune Jammu Delhi Delhi Delhi Mumbai (Via-DEL) Srinagar Kochi Bengaluru Chennai Chennai Chennai Delhi (Via- BOM) Delhi (Via-BOM) Delhi (Via-HYD) Delhi (Via-PNQ) Goa (Via-BLR) Hyderabad Hyderabad Mumbai Mumbai Pune Kolkata Agartala Agartala Ahmedabad (Via-BLR-BOM) Bagdogra Bengaluru Bengaluru Bengaluru (Via-BOM) Bengaluru (Via-HYD) Chennai Chennai Chennai (Via-DEL-PNQ) Delhi Delhi Goa (Via-BOM) Guwahati Guwahati Guwahati Guwahati (Via-IXA) Hyderabad Mumbai Mumbai Mumbai (Via-BLR)

flight no.

freq

dep

arrival

SG-913 SG-218 SG-913 SG-133 SG-912

Daily Daily Daily Daily 1,2,3,4,57

1710 2040 1710 0830 1310

2150 2130 2025 1015 1440

SG-854 SG-851 SG-858 SG-852 SG-851

Daily Daily Daily Daily Daily

0930 1310 1525 1310 1040

1050 1425 1645 1720 1115

SG-245 SG-287 SG-3242 SG-3244 SG-118 SG-112 SG-108 SG-214 SG-245 SG-108 SG-1052 SG-112 SG-118 SG-214

Daily Daily Daily Daily Daily Daily Daily 1,2,3,4,57 1,3,4,5,6,7 Daily Daily Daily Daily 1,2,3,4,57

1025 0615 1800 2110 1840 1120 1220 1,3,55 1025 1220 21,3,5 1120 1840 1,3,55

1130 0725 1925 2240 2315 1620 1625 1835 1310 1345 2325 1320 2040 1555

SG-873 SG-871 SG-529 SG-323 SG-523 SG-529 SG-874 SG-872 SG-324 SG-322 SG-219 SG-608 SG-219 SG-803 SG-321 SG-528 SG-883 SG-873 SG-872 SG-803 SG-874 SG-529

Daily Daily Daily Daily Daily Daily Daily Daily Daily Daily Daily Daily Daily Daily Daily Daily Daily Daily Daily Daily Daily Daily

1130 1415 1645 1240 0715 1645 1800 1720 1550 2005 1710 0800 1710 0830 0815 1250 1635 1130 1720 0830 1800 1645

1220 1510 2300 1,3,50 0935 1910 2250 2115 1810 2235 0040 1010 1935 1300 0925 1405 1755 1400 1925 1120 2045 2125

Port Blair Pune (Via-DEL)

SG-525 SG-219

Daily Daily

11,3,5 1710

1335 2230

Kozhikode Bengaluru Chennai Chennai Hyderabad

SG-1074 SG-3252 SG-3252 SG-1074

1,3,4,6,7 5 2,4,6,7 2

1345 1210 1520 1255

1445 1325 1650 1440

April 2013 196 www.spiceroutemag.com

Spice schedule

Destination

Hyderabad (Via - BLR) Lucknow Delhi Madurai Chennai Chennai Chennai Chennai Delhi (Via-MAA) Delhi (Via-MAA) Hyderabad Mumbai ( Via-MAA) Mumbai ( Via-MAA) Mangalore Bengaluru Bengaluru (Via-BOM) Chennai (Via-BLR) Hyderabad Hyderabad Mumbai Mumbai Agartala (Via-CCU) Ahmedabad Ahmedabad Ahmedabad Amritsar Bengaluru Bengaluru Bengaluru Bengaluru Chandigarh Chennai Chennai Chennai Chennai Delhi Delhi Delhi Delhi Delhi Delhi Delhi (Via-AMD) Delhi (Via-AMD) Delhi (Via-JAI) Delhi (Via-JLR) Delhi (Via-STV) Goa Goa Guwahati (Via-BLR-CCU) Guwahati (Via-CCU-IXA) Hubli Hyderabad Jabalpur Jaipur Jammu (Via-DEL) Kochi

flight no.

freq

dep

arrival

SG-1074

1,3,4,6,7

1345

1640

SG-418

12,4,6

0735

0845

SG-273 SG-304 SG-306 SG-296 SG-304 SG-306 SG-3317 SG-273 SG-296

Daily Daily 1,3,4,5,7 Daily Daily 1,3,4,5,7 Daily Daily Daily

0800 1000 1500 1840 1000 1500 1645 0800 1840

0855 1055 1600 1940 1420 1935 1835 1110 2155

SG-3232 SG-341 SG-3232 SG-1024 SG-1024 SG-341

1,3,4,5,6,7 Daily 1,3,4,5,6,7 2 1,3,4,5,6,7 Daily

1010 1430 1010 1025 1515 1430

1105 1810 1220 1200 1650 1600

SG-873 SG-106 SG-106 SG-529 SG-151 SG-528 SG-109 SG-341 SG-874 SG-151 SG-291 SG-275 SG-274 SG-206 SG-851 SG-114 SG-112 SG-110 SG-136 SG-118 SG-106 SG-106 SG-218 SG-2452 SG-152 SG-803 SG-248 SG-528 SG-873 SG-2441 SG-401 SG-2452 SG-218 SG-851 SG-131

Daily 7 1,2,3,4,5,6 Daily 1,3,57 Daily 1,3,4,5,6,7 Daily Daily 2,4,6 Daily 1,2,3,4 Daily Daily Daily Daily Daily 1,3,4,5,6,7 Daily Daily 7 1,2,3,4,5,6 Daily Daily Daily Daily Daily Daily Daily 1,3,57 Daily Daily Daily Daily Daily

0815 0810 0815 2200 1000 0735 1250 1630 2120 1000 0605 1145 1645 2100 0550 1055 1415 1745 2015 2110 0810 0815 1810 1615 1920 1200 1520 0735 0815 1240 0520 1615 1810 0550 0835

1220 0915 0935 2300 1230 0920 1430 1810 2250 1235 0755 1340 1840 2305 0755 1255 1620 1955 2220 2315 1120 1140 2130 2005 2245 1300 1625 1405 1400 1410 0640 1810 2010 1010 1035

Destination

flight no.

freq

dep

arrival

Kochi Kolkata Kolkata Kolkata (Via-BLR) Madurai (Via-MAA) Mangalore

SG-103 SG-873 SG-804 SG-528 SG-291 SG-344

Daily Daily Daily Daily Daily Daily

1450 0815 1855 0735 0605 1230

1700 1100 21,3,5 1220 0930 1400

Nanded Srinagar (Via - ATQ) Srinagar (Via - IXC) Srinagar (Via-DEL IXJ) Surat Trivandrum Varanasi (Via-DEL) Vizag (Via-HYD)

SG-2441 SG-151 SG-151 SG-851 SG-152 SG-275 SG-114 SG-401

2,4,6 1,3,57 2,4,6 Daily Daily 5,6,7 Daily Daily

1240 1000 1000 0550 1920 1145 1055 0520

1,3,50 1410 1410 1115 2015 1340 1505 0820

SG-3306 SG-3306

1,3,5 1,3,5

1330 1330

1420 1610

SG-2452 SG-2452 SG-2452

2,4,6 2,4,6 2,4,6

1430 1430 1430

2005 1810 1550

SG-3306 SG-1074 SG-3306 SG-3306 SG-1074

4,6,7 5 47 6 5

1330 1,3,50 1330 1330 1,3,50

1420 1450 1610 1800 1640

SG-272 SG-272 SG-883 SG-272 SG-883

1,3,4,5,7 26 Daily 1,3,4,5,7 Daily

1255 1425 1405 1255 1405

1455 1640 1755 1640 1600

SG-342 SG-913 SG-227 SG-345 SG-219 SG-913 SG-208 SG-214 SG-1025 SG-913 SG-913 SG-217

Daily 1,2,3,4,57 Daily Daily Daily 1,2,3,4,57 Daily 1,2,3,4,57 Daily 1,2,3,4,57 1,2,3,4,57 1,2,3,4,57

0755 1510 0645 2320 2300 1510 0720 1625 2220 1510 1510 1115

0905 1820 0815 0040 0040 2150 0930 1835 2340 2025 1640 1310

SG-1062

Daily

1100

1155

SG-152 SG-209 SG-152 SG-262 SG-869 SG-209 SG-209

1,3,57 Daily 2,4,6 6 Daily Daily Daily

1450 1435 1450 1010 1235 1435 1435

1545 1940 1550 11,3,5 1405 1605 1605

Mysore Bengaluru Chennai (Via-BLR) Nanded Delhi (Via-BOM,JLR) Jabalpur (Via-BOM) Mumbai Pondicherry Bengaluru Bengaluru Chennai (Via-BLR) Chennai (Via-BLR) Hyderabad (Via-BLR) Port Blair Chennai Chennai Guwahati (Via-CCU) Hyderabad (Via-MAA) Kolkata Pune Ahmedabad Ahmedabad (Via-JAI) Bengaluru Bengaluru Chennai Chennai (Via-JAI-AMD-HYD) Delhi Delhi Hyderabad Hyderabad (Via-JAI-AMD) Jaipur Kochi Rajahmundry Hyderabad Srinagar Amritsar Bengaluru (Via-DEL) Chandigarh Delhi Delhi Delhi Delhi

April 2013 198 www.spiceroutemag.com

Spice schedule

Destination

Delhi Delhi (Via - ATQ-BOM-STV) Delhi (Via - IXC-BOM-STV) Delhi (Via-IXJ) Jammu Mumbai (Via - ATQ) Mumbai (Via - IXC) Mumbai (Via-IXJ-DEL) Surat (Via - ATQ-BOM) Surat (Via - IXC-BOM) Surat Amritsar (Via - BOM) Chandigarh (Via - BOM) Delhi Mumbai Srinagar (Via - BOM-ATQ) Srinagar (Via - BOM-IXC) Tirupati Hyderabad Hyderabad Pune (Via- HYD) Tiruchirapalli Chennai Thiruvananthapuram Chennai Chennai Mumbai Tuticorin Bengaluru (Via-MAA) Chennai Chennai Hubli (Via-MAA,BLR)

Udaipur Delhi Varanasi Coimbatore (Via-DEL,HYD) Delhi Delhi Delhi Hyderabad (Via-DEL) Mumbai (Via-DEL) Vijayawada Bengaluru Chennai Hyderabad Visakhapatnam Bengaluru Chennai Delhi (Via-HYD) Hyderabad Hyderabad Mumbai (Via-HYD)

flight no.

freq

dep

INTERNATIONAL SCHEDULE

arrival

SG-864 SG-152 SG-152 SG-852 SG-852 SG-152 SG-152 SG-852 SG-152 SG-152

Daily 1,3,57 2,4,6 Daily Daily 1,3,57 2,4,6 Daily 1,3,57 2,4,6

1620 1450 1450 1155 1155 1450 1450 1155 1450 1450

1745 2245 2245 1425 1240 1850 1850 1720 2015 2015

SG-151 SG-151 SG-152 SG-151 SG-151 SG-151

1,3,57 2,4,6 Daily Daily 1,3,57 2,4,6

0825 0825 2045 0825 0825 0825

1230 1235 2245 0920 1410 1410

SG-1042 SG-1022 SG-1022

Daily Daily Daily

0855 1850 1850

1010 2010 2200

SG-3166

1,2,3,4

1200

1305

SG-3272 SG-3308 SG-276

Daily Daily 5,6,7

0805 2200 1410

1000 2330 1605

SG-1084 SG-3292 SG-1084

1,3,4,5,7 Daily 1,3,4,5,7

1550 0855 1550

1900 1020 1710

SG-1084

1,3,4,5,7

1550

2035

SG-2436

Daily

1235

1405

SG-233 SG-128 SG-233 SG-119 SG-233 SG-119

Daily 3,5,7 Daily Daily Daily Daily

1130 0810 1130 1535 1130 1535

1740 0940 1250 1655 1555 1940

SG-3304 SG-3303 SG-1002

Daily Daily Daily

1550 1230 0820

1710 1,3,50 0915

SG-1077 SG-3278 SG-226 SG-226 SG-402 SG-402

Daily Daily Daily Daily Daily Daily

1010 1920 0900 0900 1930 1930

1150 2105 1255 1000 2050 2315

Destination

Ahmedabad Dubai Dubai Chennai Colombo Colombo Chennai Madurai Madurai Delhi Dubai Guangzhou Kabul Kathmandu Kathmandu Riyadh DUBAI Ahmedabad Delhi Kochi Mumbai Guangzhou Delhi KABUL Delhi Kathmandu Delhi Delhi Kochi Dubai Male Lucknow Sharjah Madurai Colombo Colombo Male Kochi Mumbai Dubai Riyadh Delhi Sharjah Lucknow Varanasi Varanasi Sharjah

flight no.

freq

arrival

SG-015 SG-015

1,3,4,5,6,7 2

1700 1700

1815 1820

SG-001

Daily

0100

0220

SG-002 SG-3316 SG-3316

Daily 3 1,2,4,5,6,7

0320 1405 1435

0445 1505 1535

SG-011 SG-081 SG-021 SG-041 SG-045 SG-031

Daily 1,3,4,5,6,7 2,4,6 1,3,57 Daily Daily

0855 1725 0920 0810 1550 0300

1120 0035(+1) 1020 1000 1740 0515

SG-016 SG-012 SG-018 SG-014

1,3,4,5,6,7 Daily Daily Daily

1925 2310 2055 1230

2330 0340(+1) 0225(+1) 1655

SG-082

1,2,4,5,6,7

0155

0545

SG-022

2,4,6

1120

1420

SG-042 SG-046

1,3,57 Daily

1100 1840

1305 2010

SG-017 SG-3901

Daily Daily

1710 1250

1950 1410

SG-055

1,3,57

2200

0100(+1)

SG-3314 SG-3314

3 1,2,4,5,6,7

1215 1245

1315 1345

SG-3902

Daily

1445

1705

SG-013

Daily

1945

21,3,5

SG-032

Daily

0615

1240

SG-056 SG-054

12,4,6 3,5,7

0145 0145

0635 0655

SG-053

2,4,6

2155

0100(+1)

* All Time In Local. (+1) - Next Day.

• SpiceJet flies to 45 domestic destinations covering the north, south, east and west of India. Whether you are flying for business, visiting friends or planning a holiday, SpiceJet is the smart way to travel. • SpiceJet now flies to 8 international destinations. April 2013 200 www.spiceroutemag.com

dep

Spice offices

SpiceJet Offices Corporate Office SpiceJet Limited, 319 Udyog Vihar, Phase - IV, Gurgaon 122 016, Haryana Tel: +91 124 3913939 Fax: +91 124 3913844 Customer Services E-mail: custrelations@spicejet.com Reservations Toll Free: 1-800-180-3333 and 987-180-3333 Regional Heads North & Central India: Mr. Sumant Rautela Email: sumant.rautela@spicejet.com Delhi T1 & T3, Nepal & Afghanistan: Mr. Nelash Godara Email: nelash.godara@spicejet.com East and Andaman & Nicobar Islands Ms. Mitali Borgohain Email: mitali.b@spicejet.com West Mr. Vinod Saldanha Email: vinod.saldanha@spicejet.com Andhra Pradesh and Karnataka Mr. Pankaj Handa Email: pankaj.handa@spicejet.com Tamil Nadu & Kerala Mr. R. Ranjeev Email: r.ranjeev@spicejet.com Agartala Station Incharge: Avishek Kar Address: Spicejet Ltd., C.A. Agartala Airport, Agartala 799009 (Tripura) Email: avishek.kar@spicejet.com Ahmedabad Station Manager: Johnson George Address: Spicejet Ltd., SVP International Airport, Ahmedabad - 380003 (Gujarat) Email: johnson.george@spicejet.com Allahabad Station Incharge: Vijay Yadav Address: Spicejet Ltd., Allahabad Airport, Allahabad (Uttar Pradesh) Email: vijay.yadav@spicejet.com Amritsar Station Incharge: Deepak Anand Address: Sri Guru Ram Dass Jee International Airport, Amritsar-143101 (Punjab) Email: deepak.anand@spicejet.com Aurangabad Station Incharge: Keshav Moktali Address: Spicejet Ltd., New ATS Complex, Jalana Road, Aurangabad Airport, Aurangabad (Maharashtra) Email: keshav.moktali@spicejet.com Bagdogra Station Incharge: Saurav Raj Thapa Address: Spicejet Ltd., Civil Aerodrome, Bagdogra, Siliguri-734421 (West Bengal) Email: saurav.thapa@spicejet.com Belgaum Station Incharge: Hemanth Kumar Address: Spicejet Ltd., Belgaum Airport, BelgaumBagalkote Road, Sambra (Karnataka) Email: hemanth.kumar@spicejet.com Bengaluru Station Incharge: Vivek Godbole Address: Spicejet Ltd., Bangalore International Airport, Devenhalli, Bengaluru - 560300 (Karnataka) Email: vivek.godbole@spicejet.com

Bhopal Station Incharge: Faraz Siddiqui Address: Spicejet Ltd., Raja Bhoj Airport, Bhopal (Madhya Pradesh) Email: faraz.siddiqui@spicejet.com Chandigarh Station Incharge: Manmeet Singh Barham Address: Spicejet Ltd., Civil Airport, Chandigarh – 16003 Email: manmeet.barham@spicejet.com Chennai Station Incharge: Gavin Jeffries Address: Spicejet Ltd., Kamraj International Airport, Chennai (Tamil Nadu) Email: gavin.jeffries@spicejet.com Coimbatore Station Manager: Santosh Kumar Nair Address: Spicejet Ltd., Civil Aerodrome, Coimbatore 641014 (Tamil Nadu) Email: santosh.nair@spicejet.com Colombo Station Manager: Rajesh Kumar Singh Address: Spicejet Ltd., Bandarnaike International Airport, Colombo (Sri Lanka) Email: rajesh.s@spicejet.com Dehradun Station Incharge: Manish Pandey Address: Spicejet Ltd., Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun, Uttarakhand Email: manish.pandey@spicejet.com Dubai Station Manager: J. Venkatramakrishnan Address: Spicejet Ltd., Dubai International Airport, Departure level-Terminal 1, UAE Email: j.venkat@spicejet.com Goa Station Manager: Anish Dubey Address: Spicejet Ltd., Goa International Airport, Dabolim-403801 (Goa) Email: anish.dubey@spicejet.com Guangzhou Station Manager: Vrushiket Bhise Address: Spicejet Ltd., Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport, Guangdong (China) Email: Vrushiket.Bhise@spicejet.com Guwahati Station Manager: Mitali B Address: Spicejet Ltd., Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport, Guwahati (Assam) Email: Mitali.b@spicejet.com Hyderabad Station Manager: Raghunath Singh Address: Spicejet Ltd., Rajiv Gandhi International Airport, Shamshabad (Andhra Pradesh) Email: raghunath.singh@spicejet.com Hubli Station Manager: Mahavir Gaur Address: Hubli airport, Gokul Road. Hubli - 580 030 (Karnataka) Email: mahavir.gaur@spicejet.com Indore Station Incharge: Pavitra Shukla Address: Spicejet Ltd., DABH Airport, Indore (Madhya Pradesh) Email: pavitra.shukla@spicejet.com Jabalpur Station Incharge: Jaimin Premasawala Address: Spicejet Ltd., Jabalpur Airport, Jabalpur, Madhya Pradesh Email: jaimin.premasawala@spicejet.com Jammu Station Manager: Deepak Koul Address: Spicejet Ltd., Jammu Airport,Civil Enclave

Jammu (J&K) Email: deepak.koul@spicejet.com Jaipur Station Manager: Brijendra Sinsinwar Address: Spicejet Ltd.,Civil Airport Sanganer, Jaipur (Rajasthan) Email: brijendra.sinsinwar@spicejet.com Kathmandu Station Manager: Rajendra Krishna Joshi Address: Spicejet Ltd., Tribhuvan International Airport, Kathmandu (Nepal) Email: rajendra.joshi@spicejet.com Kabul Station Officer: Sunil Rehman Address: SpiceJet Ltd., Kabul International. Airport (Afghanistan) Email: sunil.rehman@spicejet.com Kochi Station Manager: Shamon P.S Address: Spicejet Ltd., Cochin International Airport Limited, Kochi (Kerala) Email: shamon@spicejet.com Kolkata Station Manager: Sagarnath Das Address: SpiceJet Ltd., Terminal II, NSCBI Airport, Kolkata – 700052 (West Bengal) Email: sagarnath.das@spicejet.com Kozhikode Station Incharge:Sajith Kannoth Address: SpiceJet Ltd., Calicut International Airport, Malapuram – 673647 (Kerala) Email: sajith@spicejet.com Lucknow Station Manager: Janardan Sahai Mathur Address: SpiceJet Ltd., Chaudhary Charan Singh Airport, Amausi, Lucknow - 226009 (Uttar Pradesh) Email: janardan.mathur@spicejet.com Madurai Station Manager: Balaji Ramanan Address: Spicejet Ltd., Madurai Airport, Madurai - 625022 (Tamil Nadu) Email: balaji.ramanan@spicejet.com Male Station Incharge: Alexis Anand Raj Address: Spicejet Ltd, Ibrahim Nasir International Airport, Male (Maldives) Email: alexis.raj@spicejet.com Mangalore Station Incharge: C.M.Biddappa Address: Spicejet Ltd., Bajpe Airport, Mangalore (Karnataka) Email: biddappa@spicejet.com Mumbai Station Manager: Naved Patel Address: Spicejet Ltd., Chhatrapati Shivaji International Airport, Mumbai (Maharashtra) Email: naved.patel@spicejet.com Mysore Station Manager: C.A Bopanna Address: Spicejet Ltd., Mysore Airport, Mysore (Karnataka) Email: bopanna.ca@spicejet.com Nanded Station Incharge: Mahesh Taru Address: Shri Guru Gobind Singh Ji Airport, Nanded (Maharashtra) Email: mahesh.taru@spicejet.com New Delhi Station Manager: Nelash Godara Address: Terminal 1D, IGI Airport, Palam (Delhi) Email: nelash.godara@spicejet.com Pondicherry Station Incharge: S Mahesh Address: Spicejet Ltd., Puducherry Airport, Lawspet (Puducherry) Email: mahesh.s@spicejet.com Port Blair Station Incharge: Arun M

April 2013 202 www.spiceroutemag.com

Address: Spicejet Ltd., Veer Sawarkar International Airport, Port Blair (Andaman & Nicobar Islands) Email: arun.m@spicejet.com Pune Station Manager: Adil Palia Address: Spicejet Ltd., Civil Enclave Pune Airport, Lohegaon, Pune - 411032 (Maharashtra) Email: adil.palia@spicejet.com Rajahmundry Station Incharge: Amit Naraian Address: Spicejet Ltd.,Rajahmundry Airport, Madhurapudi (Andhra Pradesh) Email: amit.naraian@spicejet.com Riyadh Station Manager: Irfan Hussain Kanth Address: Spicejet Ltd., King Khalid International Airport, Riyadh (Saudi Arabia) Email: irfan.kanth@spicejet.com Sharjah Station Incharge: Debasish Choudhury Address: SpiceJet Ltd., Sharjah International Airport, Sharjah (UAE) Email: debasish.choudhury@spicejet.com Srinagar Station Incharge: Sartaj Ahmed Mantoo Address: Spicejet Ltd., Srinagar Airport, Srinagar (J&K) Email: sartaj.mantoo@spicejet.com Surat Station Incharge: Harin Rajguru Address: Spicejet Ltd.,Surat Airport, Surat (Gujarat) Email: harin.rajguru@spicejet.com Tiruchirappalli Station Incharge: C.N. Kishore Address: Spicejet Ltd.,Tiruchirapalli Airport, Tiruchirappalli, (Tamil Nadu) Email: c.n.kishore@spicejet.com Tirupati Station Incharge: N Nagaraju Address: Spicejet Ltd., Civil Aerodrome, Tirupati-517520 (Andhra Pradesh) Email: n.nagaraju@spicejet.com Thiruvananthapuram Station Incharge: A.C.Ratheesh Address: Spicejet Ltd., Trivandrum International Airport, Thiruvananthapuram - 695008 (Kerala) Email: ratheesh.ac@spicejet.com Tuticorin Station Incharge: Narasimhan S.R Address: Spicejet Ltd., Civil Aerodrome, Tuticorin-628103 (Tamil Nadu) Email: narasimhan.r@spicejet.com Udaipur Station Incharge: R. Shyam Sharma

Address: Spicejet Ltd.,Maharana Pratap Airport Dabok, Udaipur - 313023 (Rajasthan) Email: shyam.sharma@spicejet.com Varanasi Station Manager: Rajul Srivastava Address: Spicejet Ltd., L.B.S. Airport, Babatpur, Varanasi - 221006 (Uttar Pradesh) Email: rajul.srivastava@spicejet.com Vijayawada Station Incharge: Azhar Shaikh Address: Spicejet Ltd., Vijayawada Airport, Gannavaram - 521102 (Andhra Pradesh) Email: azhar.shaikh@spicejet.com Visakhapatnam Station Manager: Attanur Prasad Address: Spicejet Ltd.,Visakhapatnam Airport, Visakhapatnam - 530009 (Andhra Pradesh) Email: attanur.prasad@spicejet.com

Spice bites

April 2013 204 www.spiceroutemag.com

Spice bites

April 2013 206 www.spiceroutemag.com

Ascend

Volume VII Issue IV April 2013

www.spiceroutemag.com

The inflight magazine of SpiceJet

GROUP

cross ngs InsIght Vol I • Issue II • NoVember 2012

crossings

republik

initiative

Vol 1 | Issue 4 | April-June 2013

Issue 45 • April-June 2013

September 2012 An ICICI Prudential Life Insurance Company Ltd. initiative

pages

GOURMET GOA

EXOTIC FLAVOURS IN CONVERSATION

JEFFREY ARCHER RAHUL SHARMA

Wanderer The land of manneken and TinTin

Wellness

Travel Tales

London along the Thames

Celebrating the spirit of learning

Gourmet Trail A MaXposure Media Group Publication

A taste of luxury

SHARJAH

MUCH MORE THAN CRICKET

Festive revelry RESIDENTS cElEbRaTE

EvERy fESTIval wITh TRaDITIoNal fERvouR

mud Therapy gains populariTy crossings.in

A MaXposure Media Group Publication

VOLUME 1 | ISSUE 1 | DEC’12-FEB’13

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