Spiceroute Feb 2015

The inflight magazine

Volume IX | Issue II | February 2015

www.spiceroutemag.com

32 62 70

Hyderabad delight Experience the royal grandeur of the Nizams

Sweet Celebrations This V-Day, indulge in unique chocolate concoctions

Classic Timepieces Reinventing the forgotten past in all its glory

The inflight magazine

Volume IX | Issue II | February 2015

www.spiceroutemag.com

32 62 70

Hyderabad delight Experience the royal grandeur of the Nizams

Sweet Celebrations This V-Day, indulge in unique chocolate concoctions

Classic Timepieces Reinventing the forgotten past in all its glory

The inflight magazine

Volume IX | Issue II | February 2015

www.spiceroutemag.com

32 62 70

Hyderabad delight Experience the royal grandeur of the Nizams

Sweet Celebrations This V-Day, indulge in unique chocolate concoctions

Classic Timepieces Reinventing the forgotten past in all its glory

The inflight magazine

Volume IX | Issue II | February 2015

www.spiceroutemag.com

32 62 70

Hyderabad delight Experience the royal grandeur of the Nizams

Sweet Celebrations This V-Day, indulge in unique chocolate concoctions

Classic Timepieces Reinventing the forgotten past in all its glory

Hair | Beauty | Spa | Makeup | Nail

Rituals

1

DIAGNOSE

2

BATHE

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TREAT

DOWNLOAD APP

Call: 1800-103-2665 (Toll Free) 1800-103-BOOK

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Delhi: Greater Kailash-II, South Extension-I, Connaught Place, Rajouri Garden, Punjabi Bagh (W), Dwarka, Vasant Kunj - Ambience Mall Gurgaon: DLF Phase I, Ambience Mall

from the coo’s desk

Dear SpiceJet customer, I want to thank all our customers, employees, partners, suppliers, and shareholders for their patience and support as SpiceJet has gone through a very challenging time over the last two months after a very difficult period of time. We are truly appreciative of the Ministry of Civil Aviation’s efforts to help us get back on our feet by getting us some ‘breathing room’ from creditors as we re-structure, in the absence of any such structured mechanism in India for this. I do want to emphasise that, contrary to media reports, this was not a ‘bailout’: there was no funding of any kind involved from the government or taxpayer funds; it was simply a few weeks of credit based on standard commercial terms, for which we are extremely appreciative.

The good news is that the company is, at the time of this writing, in the process of changing hands with the return to the airline of co-founder Mr Ajay Singh as promoter, and along with that comes

re-capitalisation of the airline. The future now looks secure. We plan to grow back as soon as possible to the size and scale we had achieved in the middle of 2014, when we had grown to become the #2 airline for domestic air travel in terms of passengers flown, with 21% market share, before legacy issues caught up with us and led to a difficult period for the company.

The recovery of SpiceJet is good for the entire travel industry and the country at large for several reasons, amongst which are: a. SpiceJet’s network is one of the widest in India, providing connectivity to smaller cities that other airlines do not fly to b. SpiceJet has been the driving force behind demand stimulation and strong market growth, benefitting the entire travel ecosystem and the larger economy c. A strong #2 airline is good for the market as it ensures healthy competition, through which service across the industry

improves while fares stay affordable And of course, SpiceJet offers customers a welcome choice, a differentiated travel experience that sets us apart as a warm airline that cares, exemplified by our slogan ‘With All Our Heart’ which we really mean!

This issue of Spiceroute is focussed on travel. Travel is something that breaks down boundaries, brings people closer, and expands one’s appreciation for the wonder of the planet we call home. Sometimes one travels to get away from it all, to get a different perspective on the world, on our existence. On that note, I recommend one place to visit that is simply ‘out of the world’. The place is Arches National Park in the state of Utah, in southwest USA. It is simply awe-inspiring, words cannot describe how spectacular the massive red rock scenery consisting of huge natural arches is.

The picture on this page gives you just a small sense of what one sees there. Arches National Park is best seen in winter when the snow adds another beautiful dimension to the experience. If you get the chance, please visit it, it may well be the trip of a lifetime!

Thank you for flying SpiceJet.

1

Sanjiv Kapoor Chief Operating Officer

GROUP

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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. G-0-A (Ground Floor), Mira Corporate Suites, Plot No 1 & 2, Ishwar Nagar, Mathura Road, New Delhi-110065, india. Spiceroute MAGAZINE is published monthly.

ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. THE WRITING, ARTWORK AND/OR PHOTOGRAPHY CONTAINED HEREIN MAY NOT BE USED OR REPRODUCED WITHOUT THE EXPRESS WRITTEN PERMISSION OF MMGipl. MMGipl / spicejet DOES NOT ASSUME RESPONSIBILITY FOR LOSS OR DAMAGE OF UNSOLICITED PRODUCTS, MANUSCRIPTS, PHOTOGRAPHS, ARTWORK, TRANSPARENCIES OR OTHER MATERIALS. The views expressed in the magazine are not necessarily those of the publisher or SpiceJet. All efforts have been made while compiling the content of this magazine, but we assume no responsibility for the effects arising there from.

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update 10 14

Hot dates Travel buzz

48 hours in Hyderabad 32

Contents

10

4

tete-a-tete

explore

Jaipur

40

Skiing destinations

46

Udaipur

98

Sunali Rathod and Roop Kumar Rathod 56 Sivamani

59

32 The inflighT magazine

Volume IX | Issue II | February 2015

32 62 70

Hyderabad deligHt

32 62 70

Hyderabad deligHt

The inflighT magazine

experience the royal grandeur of the nizams

Sweet CelebrationS This V-Day, indulge in unique chocolate concoctions

ClaSSiC timepieCeS Reinventing the forgotten past in all its glory

www.spiceroutemag.com

Volume IX | Issue II | February 2015

32 62 70

Hyderabad deligHt experience the royal grandeur of the nizams

Sweet CelebrationS This V-Day, indulge in unique chocolate concoctions

ClaSSiC timepieCeS Reinventing the forgotten past in all its glory

www.spiceroutemag.com

40 The inflighT magazine

Volume IX | Issue II | February 2015

February 2015 | www.spiceroutemag.com

www.spiceroutemag.com

The inflighT magazine

experience the royal grandeur of the nizams

Sweet CelebrationS This V-Day, indulge in unique chocolate concoctions

ClaSSiC timepieCeS Reinventing the forgotten past in all its glory Volume IX | Issue II | February 2015

32 62 70

Hyderabad deligHt experience the royal grandeur of the nizams

Sweet CelebrationS This V-Day, indulge in unique chocolate concoctions

ClaSSiC timepieCeS Reinventing the forgotten past in all its glory

www.spiceroutemag.com

56

185 MM

241 MM

Alstone International

Branch Offices:

2E/7 Jhandewalan Ext. New Delhi-55 E: info@alstoneindia.com • www.alstoneindia.com Toll Free No. 1800-1233123 • SMS ACP TO 56161

Bangalore • Chennai • Delhi • Hyderabad • Indore • Kochi • Kolkatta • Lucknow • Noida • Patna • Pune • Ranchi

concern

indulge Secrets of coriander

60

potpourri

Developing strength 104

Festive flavour

Choco-love 62

Technology

Silent sentiments

66

Book review

Classic canvas

70

Predictions

Mocktails 74

Films

Interior trends

Launch pad

78

A whiff of goodness

82

Get back in shape

86

Testing times

94

62

Spotlight

104

108 112 113 118 120 122 126

138

98

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cover story

inside spicejet

Plan your trip with SpiceJet! 22

A day in the life

22

Social media Group booking SME traveller Stars of SpiceJet SpiceJet fleet

February 2015 | www.spiceroutemag.com

132 137 138 139 140 142

Letters from

SpiceJet customers Professional Letter attitude While travelling from Chennai to Mumbai, I was month touched by the attitude and professionalism of your staff. I met Nidhi, Reeja and Premila who make a lovely bunch of personnel.

They, no doubt, make you very proud. I was extremely impressed on the flight as well.

Congratulations! I do wish SpiceJet a great and growing future.

Margaret Francis

of the

brilliant on time performance

8

I travelled in December last year with SpiceJet from Mumbai to Delhi on your SG136 flight. It was a great experience, and was punctual too.

The crew was excellent, particularly Sandhya who was efficient and polite. Hopefully, I will be travelling again with you soon. Keep it up!

RM Bagai

Excellent service Had a very good and amazing experience while checking in with SpiceJet, specially with Vandana. I wish her good luck. Vandana, keep smiling, as you are doing a good job.

Dhara Mehta

grateful for help rendered I travelled recently with SpiceJet from Delhi to Kolkata.

Due to excessive fog, all flights were delayed. I panicked as I had to reach Kolkata on time to attend a very important meeting. I contacted one of your employees at the airport and explained my problem. He listened patiently, and after some time, he managed to get me a seat in another SpiceJet flight which was due to leave. I am extremely grateful to him.

Even the cabin crew were extremely polite, efficient and helpful. They saw to it that post boarding, everything went smoothly in the cabin.

You guys are amazing!

Ravi Singh

polite staff

good hospitality

I am a frequent flier with SpiceJet and I have always noticed that your staff is very helpful and courteous all along, right from checking-in to boarding the flight.

Keep up the good work, it will definitely go a long way in enticing more passengers.

Om P Sud

Excellent ground staff!

I came with an Iranian delegation and all our guests were happy with the services provided by the ground staff at Kozhikode airport. The staff was very attentive, and escorted with care one of our specially-abled guests and helped him board the aircraft. Keep it up!

Karamath Syed

Appreciating teamwork I truly appreciate the teamwork the SpiceJet staff has shown during check-in, and I extend my gratitude for the same.

In addition, I also wish the entire team best of luck for the future.

Jalal Shaikh

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HOT DATES Ishara International Puppet Festival 2015 Enjoy a wide and exciting range of performances from puppeteers across the world.

The festival focuses on both traditional and contemporary work from India and abroad. Where: Indian Habitat Centre, Lodhi Road, New Delhi, and also in Gurgaon and Chandigarh; When: February 3-12, 2015 For more details, visit www. isharapuppet. com

Following Parasurama – Native Memories Depicting the works of three artists, Murali Nagapuzha, Sajeev Visweshwaran & Suresh Muthukulam, from Kerala, the exhibition will showcase the State’s myths, folklore, everyday life, flora, fauna & people. Where - The Visual Art Gallery, India Habitat Centre, Lodhi Road, New Delhi; When - From February 6-10, 2015

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Shekhawati Festival Admire the old painted havelis and enjoy country rides to farms, cultural programmes, arts & crafts workshops, local games, fireworks, and an organic food court.

Where: Surya Mandal Stadium, Nawalgarh, Shekhawati region, Rajasthan; When: February 5-8, 2015

India Surf Festival Be a part of a creative platform for freedom of expression encompassing adventure, music, dance, art, photography surfing and paddling workshops, and yoga sessions. Where: Ramachandi Beach, near Puri and Konark, Odisha; When: February 6-8, 2015 February 2015 | www.spiceroutemag.com

Attakkalari India Biennial 2015 It is a unique platform in South Asia for fresh voices in contemporary dance, digital arts and research.

Where: Ranga Shankara Theatre, Bengaluru When: February 6-15, 2015

Pune Biennale 2015 The event comprises five exhibitions, 30 site specific installations, 25 large-scale sculptures, and many artappreciation talk shows on various aspects of heritage.

Where: Across various locations in Pune When: February 6-15, 2015

World Sacred Spirit Festival Splendour of Masters The Mumbai edition will feature Pt. Shivkumar Sharma and Pt. Hariprasad Chaurasia on the same stage after a very long time. Where: Nehru Centre Auditorium, Mumbai; When: February 7, 2015

Neralu: Bangalore Tree Festival Named after the word for ‘shade’ in Kannada, the festival aims to bring people together to appreciate the city's trees and natural heritage. Activities will include nature walks, interactive storytelling events, nature workshops, photography, and art walks. Where: Cubbon Park, Bengaluru, Karnataka; When: February 7-8 and 14-15, 2015

SulaFest Enjoy a megamix of great music, wine, drinks, food, fashion and shopping in the idyllic environs of the winery's beautiful open-air, Greek-style amphitheatre.

Where: At Sula Vineyards, Nasik When: February 7 - 8, 2015

With the grandeur and breathtaking Ahichhatragarh & Mehrangarh Fort as the backdrop, the festival will be an excellent confluence of magical arts in the form of dance, music and poetry. Where: Nagaur & Jodhpur, Rajasthan, When: February 9-15, 2015

Russel Peters: Almost Famous Part of his world tour, renowned comedian, Russell Peters will regale the Mumbai crowd this month. The Canadian actor is guaranteed to keep everyone in splits. Where: Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel Stadium, NSCI, Worli, Mumbai, When: February 11, 2015

Ragasthan India's craziest music festival, Ragasthan offers desert camping, all night open air movie screenings, and adventure sports. More than 50 artists will perform across all genres -- rock, pop, alternative, world, classical, electronic and experimental. Where: Khuri sand dunes, near Jaisalmer, Rajasthan; When: February 12-15, 2015;

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Khajuraho Dance Festival

Goa CarnAval It combines fiestas of diverse cultures, religions and beliefs. The climax of the carnaval is a colourful parade including giant presentations, floats, dances, etc.

Where: Goa; When: February 14-17, 2015

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Taj Mahotsav This 10-day long carnival gives you an opportunity to know about India’s rich arts, crafts, cultures, cuisine, dance and music.

Where: At Shilpgram near the Eastern gate of Taj Mahal When: February 18-27, 2015

India Bike Week Almost 100 mod bikes on display, quarter mile drag races, stunt championships, customised bars, bike parades and more are expected at India Bike Week this year.

Where: Vagator, Goa When: February 20-21, 2015

February 2015 | www.spiceroutemag.com

This most colourful and brilliant classical dance festival offers a feast for the eyes during a weeklong extravaganza in Khajuraho.

Where: Khajuraho, MP; When: February 25 - March 2, 2015

Full Stop Weekend A weekend photo festival, it constitutes of a photo exhibition, veteran talks, live stage shoots, equipment demo zones and entertainment.

Where: DLF City Club, Phase IV, Gurgaon, When: February 28 March 1, 2015

Annual International Yoga Festival During this one-week festival, participate in over 60 hrs of Yoga classes from world-class Yoga masters as well as lectures on Yoga, Vedanta, ancient Indian philosophy and Ayurveda. Where: Parmarth Niketan in Rishikesh, Uttarkhand, When: February 28 - March 7, 2015

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what’s new

Explore by Cycle

14

UP Tourism has come up with a new scheme 'Lucknow by cycle' for its visitors and the same will soon be introduced in the heritage cities of Varanasi and Agra.

Under the scheme, cycles will be provided on rent to tourists, just like Berlin, Munich in Germany, Amsterdam and London where cycles are available to visit tourist spots. This will help tourists to explore those lanes where it is not possible to reach by car.

During the first phase, eight geared cycles would be provided by UP tourism on a rent of Rs. 200. The tour will start from Residency and will end at Shahnajaf Imambara via Chotta and Bara Imambaras.

Balloons and water buses to see Goa

Goa is all set to launch hot air balloons and amphibious vehicles to explore the rich geography of the state. The new offerings would help diversify the state’s tourism focus away from its beaches.

“Goa Tourism will be focussing on enriching the tourism experience of visitors to Goa through the medium of adventure and allied activities,” said Goa’s Tourism Minister, Dilip Parulekar.

The hot air balloon rides over the Dudhsagar Waterfalls and six amphibious vehicles will focus on highlighting Goa’s hinterlands and inland waterways. They will be able to carry up to 34 passengers at a time on 30-minute trips.

E-Ticket for Taj Mahal

The Tourism Minister of India, Mahesh Sharma, launched e-ticketing facility for the Taj Mahal and a helpline number to ensure safety of domestic and international tourists. The e-tickets can now be booked 90 days in advance for visiting Taj Mahal and is also applicable for Humayun’s Tomb in New Delhi. The minister said that it is the beginning of a journey to cleanliness, safety and hospitality to improve the tourism experience of people visiting our country.

Currently, the facility is available in two languages—Hindi and English across 6 lines, and will soon be launched in international languages like German, Russian and French. Online payment can be made and there are three categories of tickets for visitors namely foreign visitor, SAARC visitor and domestic visitor.

February 2015 | www.spiceroutemag.com

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Smart Travel App

Google Translate app is a real-time tool that basically translates that foreign scribble in your phone’s camera screen. For the time being, it only works from English to and from French, German, Italian, Portuguese, Russian and Spanish. Though the app has been out for some time, however, it’s now being given the fine tuning afforded by Google.

'Discover Thainess' in 2015 16

The Thai government has declared 2015, the ‘Discover Thainess’ year. The campaign by the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) is encouraging tourists to experience the distinct entity and characteristic of the Thai people and the nation’s cultural assets or 'Thainess' which can be characterised in seven unique aspects: Thai Food, Thai Arts, Thai Way of Life, Thai Wellness, Thai Festivals, Thai Wisdom and Thai Fun. Thainess can be found in many of Thailand’s annual events and festivals. Under the ‘2015 Discover Thainess’ banner, TAT has listed time-honoured festivals and created new events to enhance the awareness of Thainess.

Concern

potpourri

Namaste Hungary website launched

In an attempt to encourage Indian tourists to discover the various experiences in Hungary, a website called www.namastehungary. comﾧ has been launched. Since Indian traveller is moving towards an experiential way of travel and is seeking new vistas to try local cuisines, wines, spas and offbeat experiences, Hungary is expecting more Indian visitors in the coming years.

Hungary has much to offer as a tourism destination for the ever-growing number of Indian travellers, either by its scenic beauty and unique natural heritage or its charming towns and villages as well as its diverse culture deriving from the special blend of the Asian origin of its people and the thousand-year-old European history of the country.

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Enjoy the parsi hospitality Bringing happiness a little closer to Delhiites, Soda Bottle Openerwala opened another hip outlet in Khan Market, after having tasted sweet success in Cyberhub, Gurgaon. It is a humble effort to boost the decadent Parsi culture, its food, and its cafes.

Anahita Dhondy, Chef Manager, explains how Parsis love their egg, which is well reflected in the menu that includes staples like Bheeda Par Eeda, or Parsi style baked eggs over a bed of spicy tomato and potatoes. Dhansak is an obvious choice to try here, but pig out over

the Kheema Pao, Vada Pav, vegetable cutlets, and so much more. Do try the Berry Pulao garnished with fried onions, dry fruits and berries.

Do try Parsi desserts that are exceptional.

Warm Mawa Cake, Shrewsbury biscuits, Lagan Nu Custard and even ice cream from the Parsi Dairy Farm will leave you in a dreamy state.

Its quirky decor, stained glass art, delicate lace curtains and monochrome photographs, offer a trip back in history.

Meal for two: `1,300 Address: 73, Khan Market, Delhi

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Clean, simple & wholesome

The colourful interiors, Oriental artwork married with Japanese simplicity, Guppy by Ai offers a relaxing ambiance.

Maintaining the essence of Japanese cuisine, its new winter menu, designed by Chef Vikram Khatri, truly offers the exotic with every bite. Try the Black Rice California Rolls, a sushi with cream cheese, cucumber, avocado and asparagus.

The black rice is procured from Shillong, in February 2015 | www.spiceroutemag.com

Meghalaya. Tempura is a highly popular Japanese dish wherein seafood/vegetables are coated with a light batter and deep fried. The Crispy soft shell crab tempura will seem like ‘manna’ from heaven.

Do try Tofu and water chestnut appetiser served with jalapeno and black bean and the tender beetroot served with avocado tartar topped with a citrus dressing.

Maintaining the freshness of the produce, every bite here pops with flavour. Do dig into the Snow Peas, bean, corn kernels and kikurage mushroom salad. The Chicken katsu curry rice is like comfort food this winter. The curry has a rich consistency and is known to have been introduced by the British, when India was a part of the British Empire.

For desserts, try the flambeed blueberry crepes served with fruit in brandy and berry sauce, or a host of ice cream flavours.

Meal for two: `1,500 plus taxes Address: 28, Main Market, Lodhi Colony, New Delhi

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Da Milano opens at Delhi international airport

20

Da Milano, a luxury accessory brand, recently launched an exclusive boutique at Indira Gandhi International Airport - Terminal 1D. The store houses a broad selection of latest products ranging from handbags for women to travel bags, laptop bags, and briefcases for men. An extensive range of small leather goods like travel pouches, passport cases, wallets and mobile covers are also available at the new boutique. It will even display some of the premium range of products like the trendy and colourful handbags crafted out of leather and prints picked to raise your style quotient.

Sahil Malik, Managing Director, Da Milano, says, “India’s retail landscape is evolving rapidly. Our brand is committed to extend its presence at key airports across India, thereby reaching out to the well-heeled traveller who is looking for premium products in such retail environments.” This is the third store at IGI Airport, with one being at International Terminal 3 and Domestic Terminal.

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AP tourism to start Budget hotel

Andhra Pradesh Tourism Department is all set to open its budget hotel in Srikakulam for commercial operations in 2015. Thousands of devotees visit Srikakulam to have darshan of Lord Sri Suryanarayana Swamy in Arasavilli temple.

The budget hotel will feature 22 rooms, one dormitory, banquet hall and restaurant.

Many tourists who will stay at the hotel can also visit the nearby tourist spots like Kalingapatnam, Srikurmam, Srimukhalingam, Salihundam, Ravivalasa and other places.

APTDC hopes to promote tourism in the district and gearing up to operate buses from the place.

For armchair travellers, developers in the Gulf commercial hub launched a new website that offers users an interactive virtual tour of dozens of landmarks in the desert metropolis, including the man-made Palm Jumeirah island and the view from the top of the world's tallest tower, the Burj Khalifa, on their laptops or tablets. It includes nearly 1,300 pieces of panoramic videos and photos.

February 2015 | www.spiceroutemag.com

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Plan your trip

with spicejet Already into the second month of the year, it’s time to take a break.

A break from work, a break from the every day routine. Chart out your travel plans, and squeeze in a few trips. Dedicate the year to travel, and make it an ‘epic’ one.

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M a r c h >>

M a y >>

February 2015 | www.spiceroutemag.com

F ebr u a ry >>

a pri l >>

j u n e >>

Spicejet gives you an option to travel to these destinations and many more to explore them.

The airline has a well connected network Offering convenience like no other.

j u l y >>

a u g u st >>

september >>

O c tober >>

n ovember >>

de c ember >>

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n this issue, we give you more reasons to fly and explore the world as we highlight one destination for every calendar month.

February // Goa

A world renowned tourist destination, Goa has umpteen beaches, delectable cuisine, amazing heritage buildings and a colonial past.

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What to see: The beaches Do Not Miss: in northern Goa like Baga, Goa Carnaval Calangute, Vagator and 2015 Anjuna are a must visit. The forts of Goa may not seem monumental in appearance, but they offer a picturesque relish their food. The natives here foreground. Heavily influenced by have borrowed many traditions the Portuguese rule, the churches from the Portuguese, and fish, rice of Goa offer a glimpse into the past. and curry form an important part Basilica of Bom Jesus contains the of their meal. Use of freshly ground mortal remains of St. Francis Xavier. spices and coconut milk are The Nunnery of Santa Monica and profound. Seafood is excessively Reis Magos Church offer a pristine popular, be it crabs, mussels, picture of white washed buildings squid, oysters or prawns. Chicken set in contrast with lush palm trees. Xacuti, a popular chicken curry, What to eat: A cuisine quite exotic or the pungent Pork Vindaloo and in appearance and flavours, Goans spicy sausages should be sampled.

Where to shop: The Friday market of Mapusa is very popular. From vegetables to spices, traditional handicrafts, pottery, homemade pickles, antiques and textiles everything is available here. One must visit the Saturday Night Market at Arpora.

SpiceJet connects Goa with Mumbai, Delhi, Hyderabad, Chennai and Pune.

March // Hyderabad A princely state during the British rule, the splendour and opulence of the Nizams of Hyderabad is well known. Today, Hyderabad is the capital of the newly formed state of Telangana.

Things to do: i Visit Ramoji Film City, Salar Jung Museum, Golconda Fort, Shilparamam Cultural Society and Hussain Sagar Lake. i Evening drive around the Charminar i Relish the Hyderabadi biryani and dine at Gufaa. i Pick up pearl jewellery SpiceJet connects Hyderabad with Ahmedabad, Bengaluru, Mumbai, Coimbatore, Kochi, Delhi, Goa, Madurai, Chennai, Kolkata*, Pune, Rajahmundry, Tirupati, Visakhapatnam*, and Vijaywada.

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April // Bangkok Bangkok, a cosmopolitan city, has a versatile personality appealing to one and all.

What to see: Head to Wat Pho (Temple of the Reclining Buddha), where the 43m long reclining statue of Buddha is covered with gold leaf and mother-of-pearl decorations.

Drop in at Marine Park and Safari Park at Safari World and enjoy a safari drive through picturesque African wilderness settings, meet

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Do Not Miss: Hire a tuk-tuk to explore the streets & Bangkok nightlife

friendly dolphins and more. Opt for a boat cruise on Chao Phraya River.

What to eat: Check out Nang Leong Market for classics like sweet kanom to savoury pork shank rice (khao ka moo). Traipse through streets lined with food stalls munching on barbecued pork, meat ball noodles, spicy shrimp soup and much more.

Where to shop: Pick up items for

home decor, furniture, etc. from Chatuchak, one of the world's largest weekend markets.

Splurge on souvenir crafts from Khao San Road and visit Damnoen Saduak floating markets.

SpiceJet offers direct services from Kolkata to Bangkok, and connecting services from Agartala, Bagdogra, Bengaluru, Mumbai, Guwahati, Chennai and Delhi.

May // Dharamshala Dharamshala is a quaint and beautiful holiday retreat. Surrounded by the snow-clad Dhauladhar range, pine & deodar forests, fresh air and gurgling streams, this township is a charming place to visit.

Things to do: i Visit Kangra Art Museum for artifacts dating back to the 5th century. i Visit Dal Lake, 11 km from Dharamshala, that offers a quiet picnic spot surrounded by nature. i McLeodganj, approx 20 km from the township, houses the Dalai Lama’s residence. i Visit the Tibetan Institute of Performing Arts, Kalachakra Temple and Church of St. John.

SpiceJet connects Dharamshala with Delhi.

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June // Srinagar

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Do Not Miss: Enjoy a shikara or houseboat ride across Dal Lake

The summer capital of Jammu & Kashmir, Srinagar is known for its lakes, gardens, brightly coloured houseboats and rich cuisine. River Jhelum, that passes through the city, divides it in two.

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What to see: Shalimar Bagh, a Mughal Garden built by Mughal emperor Jahangir, replicates the layout of Persian gardens.

Chinar trees line the pathways, and when the flaming orangered leaves flutter to the ground, the scenery is breathtaking.

Travellers can embark on tours to nearby areas, such as Gulmarg, Pahalgam, among others.

What to eat: When in Srinagar, do try the Wazwan, a traditional multi-course meal. Its preparation is akin to a work of art and a symbol of pride and togetherness in the Kashmiri culture. A 36-course meal, most of the courses are meat preparations that are required to be cooked overnight. Do try the famed Rogan Josh, Gushtaba that consists of meatballs immersed in a yoghurt gravy, Khubani ka Halwa made from fresh apricots and dry fruits, among others.

Where to shop: The state government emporiums are the best places to buy souvenirs, jackets, carpets, jewellery, etc. Tourists can pick up Kani or Pashmina shawls, papier mache goods, walnut wood carvings and much more.

SpiceJet connects Srinagar with Jammu, Amritsar*, Chandigarh* and Delhi.

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July // Pune The cultural capital of Maharashtra, Pune is now a booming IT city. The erstwhile seat of the Peshwas, Pune is a healthy blend of its historic past with a few modern makeovers.

Things to do: i Visit Shaniwar Wada fort, Raja Dinkar Kelkar Museum, Bund Garden, Dagadusheth Halwai Ganapati Temple, Aga Khan Palace, Khadakwasla Dam and many other places. i Take a tour of Osho Ashram, watch a play at Bal Gandharva Rang Mandir, visit the Pune racecourse, dine at Shabree for a traditional Mahashtrian fare, Dario’s for superb Italian and Kayani Bakery for heavenly confectionary.

SpiceJet connects Pune with Bengaluru, Ahmedabad*, Kochi, Dubai*, Delhi, Goa, Hyderabad and Chennai.

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August // Muscat The capital city of the Sultanate of Oman is characterised by typical oriental Arabesque style with its low-rise buildings.

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What to see: Visit Bait al Baranda (house of porches), Do Not Miss: a museum dedicated to Trace the sand the history of the city. The dunes with breathtaking Sultan Qaboos quad biking Grand Mosque has elegantly carved arches, Swarovski crystal chandelier and a handmade Persian carpet made by 600 weavers. The Royal Opera House is another place to visit.

From July to August, the Salalah Festival is organised to celebrate the khareef monsoon season which heralds cooler temperatures. Concerts, cultural shows, kite festival are held, among others.

What to eat: Omani cuisine maintains a variety of meat preparations. Do try the Omani Shuwa, a juicy meat preparation in which the lamb is wrapped in banana leaf. Omani halwa, kebabs and Machboos, a rice dish cooked over meat, must be sampled.

Where to shop: The souk in Muttrah region is bountiful in its offerings - spices, jewellery, antiques, bedouin carpets, traditional sculpted silver and ivory daggers, etc.

SpiceJet connects Muscat with Ahmedabad.

February 2015 | www.spiceroutemag.com

September // Ahmedabad One of the largest cities in Gujarat, Ahmedabad is a great tourist attraction. Majestic monuments, museums and lakes, there is much to do in this city. The river Sabarmati divides the city into eastern and western regions, and numerous bridges connect the two.

Things to do: i Visit Sabarmati Ashram, where Mahatma Gandhi lived for 12 years i Visit Auto World Vintage Museum, Adalaj step well, Kankaria Lake, Nal Sarovar Bird Sanctuary, Jhulta Minara, among others. i Try the various street food here - kulfi, khaman dhokla, chaat, mini mutton samosa, etc. Khau Gali is a road lined with food stalls, offering a legendary gastronomic experience.

SpiceJet connects Ahmedabad with Delhi, Mumbai*, Dubai, Hyderabad, Pune*, Chennai and Muscat.

Do Not Miss: Durga Puja is celebrated with much fanfare

October // Kolkata

November // Mumbai

Once the capital of British India, Kolkata still retains an air of colonial era. Be it the iconic Victoria Memorial, delicious Mughlai paratha, hand-pulled rickshaws and Rabindranath Tagore’s rich legacy, the city is a must-visit.

A city of dreams, home to Bollywood and the financial & fashion capital of India, Mumbai has a magnetic energy that is difficult to resist.

What to see: Do visit Rabindra Bharati Museum, the Tagore family residence that is now a museum. Head to College Street for numerous bookshops, ghats along Hooghly river, Belur Math, St Paul’s Cathedral and Botanical Gardens in Hooghly.

What to eat: Explore the breakfast menu at Flury’s or authentic Chinese cuisine in old Chinatown, sample the Chelo Kebabs at Peter Cat, indulge in delicious Bengali cuisine at Oh! Calcutta, and savour local Mughlai rolls & biryani.

Where to shop: Dakshinapan in Gariahat, and New Market will satiate all your shopping desires.

SpiceJet connects Kolkata with Bangkok, Bengaluru, Hyderabad*, Mumbai, Delhi, Guwahati, Agartala, Port Blair*, Bagdogra and Chennai.

Things to do: i Get a picture clicked in front of the Gateway of India, visit Elephanta Caves, watch the sunset at Marine Drive, visit Haji Ali Dargah and marvel at the Gothic architecture of CST. i Entice your tastebuds at Leopold Cafe, food stalls at Chowpatty Beach and Cafe Mondegar. Visit Colaba & Linking Road to shop.

SpiceJet connects Mumbai with Bengaluru, Ahmedabad*, Amritsar*, Kolkata, Kochi, Delhi, Dubai, Goa, Hyderabad, Mangalore, Hubli*, Jabalpur and Chennai.

December // Colombo Colombo is the cultural, economic and political capital of Sri Lanka. A glittering coastline, rustic markets, colourful temples and friendly locals, end the year with a trip to Colombo.

What to see: Visit the Gangaramaya Temple, National Museum of Colombo and Galle Face Green for a relaxing stroll.

What to eat: Try some Kothu, a delicacy of Sri Lanka, Fish Ambul Thiyal, a sour fish curry, Polos - green jackfruit Do Not Miss: curry and coconut pancakes.

Spend a day Where to shop: Pick up souvenirs at Odel.

at Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage

SpiceJet connects Colombo with Madurai and Chennai.

*Flights will be available as part of the summer schedule from March 29, 2015 onwards

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48 hours in

Hyderabad SpiceJet offers flights to hyderabad from Ahmedabad, bengaluru, coimbatore, kochi, delhi, goa, madurai, pune, chennai, tirupati, vijaywada, rajahmundry and mumbai, among others.

February 2015 | www.spiceroutemag.com

The beautiful city of Hyderabad, built

by Nawab Nizams around 500 years ago, provides a fascinating panorama of the past.

W O R D S | Nee l a m S i n gh

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opularly known as the Pearl City, Hyderabad was founded

by Muhammad Quli Qutb Shah in 1591. Inhabited by the world's richest royals, the city offers a richly mixed cultural and historical tradition. To the traveller, Hyderabad presents a variety of tourist attractions ranging from heritage monuments, lakes and parks, gardens and resorts, museums to delectable cuisine and a delightful shopping experience.

The treasured heritage of Hyderabad is evident from the picturesque locales and the rich traditions embedded in its people's hearts

DAY

Start your first day by visiting the historical monuments to get a feel of the city’s rich heritage.

9 am: CharMinar The Nizams, who ruled from Golconda Fort, have endowed Hyderabad with many landmark buildings, including the Charminar, the Salar Jung Museum, the Falaknuma Palace and the Qutb Shahi Tombs.

Charminar is the landmark of Hyderabad. The four minarets carved with lotus buds and petals and the central structure, soaring to a height of 180 ft makes it an architectural jewel of the city. It is said to be built as a charm to ward off a deadly epidemic raging at that time. Four graceful minarets soar to a height of 48.7 m above the ground.

Do not miss: The illuminated Charminar in the evening, showcasing its majestic splendour.

11 am: Laad Bazar Situated next to the Charminar is the historical market of Laad Bazaar known for shops selling perfumes, textiles and jewellery. Its specialty is hand-crafted lac bangles embellished with glittering, colourful stones. There are a number of stores across a kilometer-long stretch that sell a vast and colourful collection of items such as semi-precious stones, pearls, saris, and jewellery.

Above: Charminar; Right: Lac bangles Extreme right: Pearl strings

1:00 pm: Lunch@old city The area of Charminar offers scrumptious delicacies. From gold coins (round bread stuffed with chicken), kebabs, chicken on stick, spicy fried fish, patthar ka gosht

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Must visit places ○ Shilparamam (The Arts & Crafts Village) where artists and artisans from all over the country exhibit their talent. ○ Having more than over 250 species of animals and birds and spanning 300 lush green acres, the Nehru Zoological Park is a must for nature lovers.

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(meat marinated overnight and slowcooked over a stone), nalli paya with sheermal, mirchi bajji and of course haleem, there is a great variety available in the area apart from the world famed Hyderabadi Biryani.

3.00 pm: Salar Jung Museum Nawab Mir Yousuf Ali Khan, popularly known as Salar Jung III, is better known for his passion for acquiring art objects. In 1914, after relinquishing the post of Prime Minister to the Nizam VII, he devoted the rest of his life in collecting and enriching the treasures of art and literature till he lived. The precious and rare art objects collected by him for a period of over 40 years, are showcased in the Salar Jung Museum.

The third largest museum of India and single largest one-man

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Salar Jung Museum is the single-largest one man collection established in 1951 collection, it was established in 1951.

Among numerous rare objects, the collection includes a rare manuscript entitled Lilawati on mathematics, a set of ivory chairs said to have been presented by Louis XVI of France to Tipu Sultan of Mysore, Quran collection which has a Quran made entirely of gold and another one made of silver, and many such impressive objects! There's also a Founder's Gallery that recreates the lives of the Salar Jungs.

Do not miss: The Musical Clock kept in the corridor just outside the Rebecca Gallery, with a large TV screen beside it. The interesting part is the blacksmith standing on the top right of the clock face and hammering away the seconds, the chiming of the clock every 15 minutes and the appearance of a bearded man in a red dress every hour from an enclosure to strike the hour on a large bell.

6.00 PM Sinful delight Visit GPR outlet for some mouth watering and delicious snacks. Their pure ghee sweets, specially Mysore Pak, and namkeens are a must try.

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DAY

Right: The veiled Rebecca in Salar Jung Museum

February 2015 | www.spiceroutemag.com

Start the second day by visiting the old part of Hyderabad city.

9.00 Golconda fort Originally a mud fort, the first three Qutub Shahi kings rebuilt Golconda, over a span of 62 years. Used as a residential palace by the Nizams, Golconda has several gardens, lakes, palaces, horse and elephant stables and the famous Fateh Rahben gun, one of the cannons used in the last siege of Golconda by Aurangzeb, to whom the fort ultimately fell.

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Extreme Left: A view of Golconda Fort Left: Qutb Shahi Tombs

36 Do not miss: The unique Sound & Light Show that takes you right back in time, when Golconda was full of life, glory and grandeur.

Did you know? Golconda Fort has been a favourite place for movie makers. A lot of movies have been shot here, like Wanted, Singham Returns, Najayaz, Morning Raga, to name a few.

12.00 PM: Qutb Shahi Tombs The tombs of the legendary Qutb Shahi kings lie about a kilometre away from Banjara Darwaza of the Golconda Fort. The tombs are built in Persian, Pathan and Hindu

architectural styles using grey granite, with stucco ornamentation, the only one of its kind in the world where an entire dynasty has been buried at one place.

1.30 PM: Relish Hyderabadi

Cuisine

Many films have been shot at Golconda Fort, such as Wanted, Singham Returns, Najayaz, etc.

Hyderabadi cuisine is a blend of traditional South Indian, Mughal, and Persian cuisine. There are several restaurants around Golconda Fort that offer authentic cuisine.

Hyderabadi Biryani is an iconic dish of the region. Some popular food chains have also opened in the area that cater to continental food.

Did you know?

Hyderabad and Secunderabad are twin cities, separated by the Hussain Sagar, a man-made lake made during the time of Ibrahim Qutub Shah in 1562.

The state was the richest and the largest among the princely states of India. In 1937, Time magazine said Hyderabad state was the richest native state in India.

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Extreme left: Ramoji Film City.

Left: The towering statue of Buddha in the midst of Hussain Sagar Lake Bottom: Falaknuma Palace

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3.00 PM Ramoji Film City Established by Indian film producer Ramoji Rao in 1996, it is the world’s largest movie studio situated at a hour-long drive from Hyderabad. Plenty of movies, TV serials and commercials are produced here yearly. The film city is a popular tourism and recreation centre, containing both natural and artificial attractions, including an amusement park.

Guided tour: The vintage film city coaches shuttle visitors around the studios on a guided tour. These coaches entertain you and make you aware of the locations, movie-units, gardens and showcase the complete studio.

7.00 pm: Hussain Sagar Lake, Necklace Road

Excavated in 1562 AD by Hussain

Shah Wali, the lake was built on a tributary of the River Musi to meet the water and irrigation needs of the city. One of the world’s tallest monolithic statues of the Buddha stands on the ‘Rock of Gibraltar’, in the middle of the lake. The 16 mt tall, 350-tonne monolithic gigantic sculpture is entirely made of white granite, finely sculpted and stands grandly on a wide dais amidst the glistening waters of the lake.

9.00 PM: Royal dinner Falaknuma Palace is one of the finest palaces in India which was given on a 30-year lease deal to the Taj Hotels. End your day with a royal dinner at 'Adaa', the Indian restaurant, in the Palace. Known as gastronomical heaven, Adaa is an exquisite place that makes the entire dining experience enriching.

The royal city of Hyderabad presents a blend of the old and the new, having an inherent style and age-old culture. From sumptuous food to the majestic monuments, the city offers surprises at every turn.

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Royal milieu of

Jaipur 40

SpiceJet has regular flights connecting jaipur to Delhi. for more details, log on to www.spicejet.com

February 2015 | www.spiceroutemag.com

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Like a story spun out of grandma’s tales, Jaipur has within its ambit forts, palaces, a royal lineage and a world of drama.

Give into the regal charm of Jaipur and explore the opulence of the Pink City.

Words | Ramya j s d'rozari o

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colour associated with love, tenderness and compassion, Jaipur exudes a warmth that is often difficult to explain.

Amidst the vibrant street life, the decadent havelis, bustling markets, natives in their colourful attire - all set in the backdrop of a pink wash, Jaipur is a city yearning to be explored Heart of heritage

Above: The majestic City Palace; Right: Exterior view of Jal Mahal in Man Sagar Lake

Be it the narrow lanes and serpentine bylanes, the imposing facade of the Hawa Mahal, the demure opulence of City Palace, heritage and history form an important part of the city.

Built in the 18th century by Sawai Jai Singh II, the ruler of Amer, City Palace is set in city centre. The palace complex has courtyards, buildings and gardens, placed in concentric zones, increasing the privacy of the inhabitants. Jaipur has been planned as a city by him, along with two other chief architects, who merged Mughal, Rajput and European styles of architecture.

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Performing arts The puppet shows in Jaipur are quite famous and there are many tours that combine entertaining puppet shows with dinner. Dressed in colourful attire, the wooden dolls dance around a mock miniature stage, and narration, drum beat and folk songs adorn each performance.

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Witness a performance

by Kalbela, a nomadic community, who perform a number of tricks using snakes and play an instrument called pungi. Kalbelia, a dance performance, is an integral part of their culture. Their colourful attire is richly adorned by small mirrors.

February 2015 | www.spiceroutemag.com

Left: The imposing facade of Hawa Mahal

There are three entry gates to the palace, and the Tripolia Gate is reserved only for the royal family. The Chandra Mahal is the most prominent of all buildings, and each floor has a name, Pritam Niwas, Sikh Niwas, etc.

Located in the middle of Man Sagar Lake, the Jal Mahal is a splendid palace to visit. The shimmering golden reflection of the palace in the waters and the secluded spot of the building provide a serene environment. The waters and surrounding hills are home to exotic flora and fauna. Fashioned with red sandstone, of the five storeyed complex, only the topmost floor can be seen when the lake is filled to its brim.

Overlooking the Man Sagar Lake is Nahargarh Fort. The view from this fort is breathtaking, as the sweeping expanse of the lake and the adjoining rugged Aravallis is mesmerising to say the least.

The Hawa Mahal or the Palace of Winds is extremely popular, and many come from far and wide to stand

The view of Man Sagar lake from Nahargarh Fort is breathtaking in awe of its majestic presence. An iconic symbol of the city, the palace was built in red sandstone with a honeycomb structure, that helps channel the breeze, rising to a height of five storeys. The intricate lattice work has numerous small windows, offering an easy outlet for the royal ladies to gaze upon the street in safety.

Handicrafts & traditional art

Rajasthan, and in specific Jaipur, has extremely rich traditional art and handicrafts. When in the city, do pick up a few pieces of Thewa jewellery in which gold and coloured glass is fused.

Displaying fine workmanship, the various patterns engraved on Thewa ornaments make it distinctive. Even the tie-dye art or Bandhani is famous in the city. A highly skilled

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Extreme left: A jharokha or overhanging projection of a window; Left: A serving of 'Dal Baati Choorma'

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process, the cloth is tied into tiny knots across the piece of cloth forming a pattern. The Bandhani dupattas and sarees are quite popular, especially the red and black combination.

Available in many colours and designs, lac bangles are traditional to this area. Shoppers can head to Johari Bazaar, which is inside the walled city, and pick up lac bangles.

Studded with glass, splash of colours or intricate patterns, these bangles are a must buy, even as a souvenir.

The market with shops one after the other in a line is renowned for jewellery, and various kinds of ethnic pieces can be found here.

Near the Hawa Mahal, the shops here display a number of traditional garments, kotis or waist coats, colourful bags, kurtis, skirts and more.

Food fanatic

Rajasthani cuisine has been influenced by the arid climate, desert vegetation and extreme lifestyles of the Rajput clans. With shortage of water and fresh greens, the food here is spicy and made with generous amount of ghee, gram flour, corn, mango powder, lentils and bajra. It is also a point to note that sweets here are not consumed at the end of the meal, but throughout. While sampling a thali, jaggery, garlic chutney and green chillies are nibbled on as accompaniments.

One can head to ITC Rajputana, situated near the railway station, and sample a delectable traditional fare at Peshawri. Dig into the authentic and robust flavours of North-West Frontier with a number of tandoor-cooked specialities,

inimitable Dal Bukhara, freshly ground spices, succulent kebabs, creamy yoghurt and Indian breads, a meal here will soften even the hardest of hearts.

The Chandravanshi Pavilion is an all-day dining restaurant that offers a la carte options that feature both Indian and Continental cuisines. Do try Lal Maas (meat cooked in red chilli paste) or Safed Maas (meat cooked in white paste) and Dal Baati Churma, among others. Even the Jal Mahal at the property offers delicious buffet spreads for breakfast, lunch and dinner, that can satiate every kind of hunger that may crop up.

So visit the Pink City of Rajasthan, where the beautifully bedecked camels, the allure of the Aravallis and the spicy local cuisine will put you under a spell.

a fine balance The Bhavai is an important dance form of the state, wherein brass pitchers are placed on top of the woman dancer’s head. With graceful movements and rhythmic dance steps, many are left speechless after witnessing such spectacles.

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Top 5

Skiing destinations

in India

Adventure sports is gaining a lot of traction in India, and the country's skiing destinations are a top hit. We give you five best places to don your ski gear and test your skiing skills.

Gulmarg Pahalgam 46

Kufri

Auli

W O R D S | Nee l a m si n gh

Munsiyari

S

kiing is one of the adventure sports that has gained vast popularity lately because of the high Himalayas. The overwhelming height and stretch of the snow clad mountains along with immense open spaces over the snowline in Jammu & Kashmir, the hills of Kumaon and Himachal Pradesh have become the favourite ski hideouts for adventure lovers. Know more about India’s top five ski destinations.

Pahalgam Jammu & Kashmir The ‘Valley of Shepherds’, Pahalgam is 95 km from Srinagar, surrounded by thickly wooded pine forests. The two-day Snow Festival organised in February each year showcases skiing, snow-sledging and other winter sports.

Best time to visit: From December to March, when the snow is nice and thick.

SpiceJet offers flights to srinagar in jammu & kashmir, dehradun in uttaranchal and dharamshala in himachal pradesh.

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

Munsiyari Uttarakhand Popularly known as the trekkers’ paradise, Munsiyari provides the best slopes for skiing. Situated in Pithoragarh district in Uttarakhand at an elevation of 11,500 ft, the place offers a panoramic vision of some high Himalayan peaks.

Best time to visit: January to March for skiing

Auli Uttarakhand

Located some 250 km away from Rishikesh, the place is almost like heaven on earth. The main attraction of this region is its 3 km - long slope ranging from a height of 2,519 to 3,049 m.

Auli also boasts of Asia's longest (4 km) cable car (Gondola) along with a chair/ski-lift. Apart from skiing, there is an interesting trek route also.

Best time to visit: Last week of January to first week of March for skiing.

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Must carry

Good strong pair of shoes, heavy woollens, cap, shades, food stuff like biscuits, juices and medicines.

Kufri Himachal Pradesh

Gulmarg Jammu & Kashmir

Due to its geographic location, Gulmarg gets some of the heaviest snowfalls in the Himalayas and offers the best ski opportunities in this mountain range. Experience the thrill of speeding downhill on the powder-laden slopes on your skis.

Best time to visit: The ski season starts right after Christmas and lasts till the end of March, depending upon weather conditions.

Note: Gulmarg is the ideal place for novices to learn skiing and snowboarding.

Kufri has always been a favourite spot for ski lovers. Skiing in Kufri is a very old adventure activity, first introduced in 1930 by British Army, when they explored the Kufri slopes around 12 km north of Shimla. Later, the Kufri slopes were developed for ski-enthusiasts.

Best time to visit: December to February for skiing

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Whose Earth Is It, Anyway?

When the worlds of man and animal collide, the result is often disastrous. Despite designated protective zones, poaching is still a cause for concern in India.

W ords & P hotogr a phs | N a vi n M R a hej a

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ast year, I received a news that a man had been mauled to death in Garjia, at the entrance of the world famous Corbett Tiger Reserve. And I wondered why such things were happening with eerie regularity?

The man-animal conflict has become a fairly regular phenomenon at almost any wildlife reserve in the country

It’s a scary situation no doubt.

Although one is not likely to come across the real picture in the glossy travelogues and travel brochures inviting all and sundry to enjoy the charms of Ranthambore in Rajasthan, Corbett Tiger Reserve in

Tiger being a territorial animal, requires a fairly large home range to properly sustain itself. Any tinkering with a tiger’s territory whether by way of deforestation or poaching on prey animals - is bound to anger the big cat.

February 2015 | www.spiceroutemag.com

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Save the leopard The leopard, arguably the handsomest and the most beguiling of big cats, is fighting a losing battle, almost everywhere in the country.

The fact is loss of prey-base and forest cover has brought the leopard to the edge of villages and cities. In search of food, it often ends up attacking humans.

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Uttarakhand or Kaziranga in Assam.

But dig a little deeper, and the reality can be unsettling.

Among the animals, big and small, it’s their alpha leader - the tiger - which is at the forefront of such recurring conflicts. Who can forget how all the tigers disappeared from the enchanting Sariska National Park about a decade ago? It remains perhaps the biggest first blow to strike the Indian wildlife after Independence. Panna of Madhya Pradesh too lost its tigers, but it was left to Sariska to hog the dubious limelight. Some even compare the Sariska wipeout to the disappearance of cheetahs from India at around 1960.

The comparison may not be fair, because now tigers have been successfully reintroduced in Sariska. Here, round-the-clock patrolling continues in Sariska till date, to

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The number of tigers in India had increased but their habitat had shrunk by 7% ensure the survival of its tigers. It was over three years ago that the National Tiger Conservation Authority, or the NTCA, sounded a warning on the tiger’s future in India. On one hand, the number of wild tigers in India had increased from 1,100-plus to 1,400plus, but on the other, it pointed out that their habitat had shrunk by a whopping 7%.

Certainly all is not hunky dory with the Indian wildlife. Tiger is not the only animal to have been handed the dirty end of the stick. In several North East reserves, onehorned rhinoceros is the cynosure of all eyes - including

Above: Even these warnings at Corbett Tiger Reserve are no deterrent to tiger attacks on humans.

Left: Tiger is at the forefront of confrontation with humans

February 2015 | www.spiceroutemag.com

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One-horned rhino facing a tough battle for survival

52 those of poachers. The mythical one-horned rhino has its back against the wall, even in the reserve where it’s accorded the maximum protection. That is, the Kaziranga Tiger Reserve in Assam.

Over a century ago, Lord Curzon, the most powerful man in British India at that time, on his wife’s request, declared Kaziranga as a protected habitat for the rhino. Curzon hung up his boots long ago. But the rhinos of Kaziranga are still battling for a foothold in their own home.

Every monsoon brings fresh threats to the rhinos of Assam. This

Every monsoon brings fresh threats to the rhinos of Assam is when the mighty Brahmaputra river displays the full range of its fury. It inundates major portions of Kaziranga. The scared wildlife, including the rhinos, run for safety to human settlements - often straight into the arms of poachers.

It’s a recurring phenomenon, the monsoon and fleeing rhinos. Mostly they are seen in the fields or on

highways. Other animals follow suit, including elephants.

Kaziranga is the only protected reserve in the country where forest officials are equipped with automatic weapons. Unlike in other Indian preserves, anti-poaching teams in Kaziranga are empowered by law to shoot the poachers at sight. That is the kind of premium a rhino commands in Kaziranga; both for its protectors and its killers.

The condition of most of our wildlife reserves is far from perfect, but that should not stop us from appreciating their beauty and potential.

The writer is the CMD of Raheja Developers.

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

February 2015 | www.spiceroutemag.com

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Dare to discover

This year, indulge in yourself and break free from the shackles of the humdrum of everyday lives. Run away to a splendid holiday in dazzling Dubai.

A

glittering gem of the United Arab Emirates, Dubai is a sought-after holiday destination throughout the year. Situated close to the airport, the Crowne Plaza Dubai Festival City offers a luxurious stay and ample facilities for tourists & corporate travellers.

Unpack & unwind

Offering 316 rooms & suites, each room is equipped with stunning decor, a dreamy bath and complimentary Wi-Fi internet

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access. Overlooking the Dubai creek, the hotel offers a stunning view of the Emirate’s skyline.

Dig in

The restaurants at the hotel offer Mediterranean cuisine at Zaytoun, and the sinful Belgian Cafe, where customers can not only sip draught beers but also dig into scrumptious burgers, crab cakes, etc.

Since the hotel is next to the InterContinental hotel, guests at Crowne Plaza DFC can dine at any of its restaurants. Guests can choose from Anise, an all-day dining restaurant that offers world cuisine, Choix Patisserie that serves sinful French delicacies or even the Terra Firma Steakhouse.

Unwind

Golf enthusiasts can always head to the nearby Al Badia golf course.

There are also a number of dining options here. Post all the strenuous workout or shopping, slip into the spa centre at the InterContinental for a relaxing massage. It will feel like heaven on earth.

SpiceJet offers daily flights to Dubai from ahmedabad, delhi, kochi, madurai and mumbai, in India. For more info, log on to www.spicejet.com February 2015 | www.spiceroutemag.com

DIABETIC FOOT CURE NOW AVAILABLE IN INDIA

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Burning, tingling, shooting, throbbing diabetic foot pain can make life difficult. If this sounds like you, treatment with Anodyne® Therapy, a new product from the USA may help.

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

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

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

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

Distributors in India

Equipments Pvt. Ltd. # 1383, 8th Main, 12th ‘C’ Cross, West of Chord Road 2nd Stage, Mahalakshmipuram, Bangalore - 560 086. INDIA

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The most loved ghazal duo of the country, Roop Kumar Rathod and Sunali Rathod, have a lot in common apart from their love for music. Get to know them better...

W O R D S | r a j a n y pr a dh a n

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n a brief conversation with Spiceroute, the musical couple talked about their passion for travel, food, discussed their latest ghazal album Zikr Tera and called their 25 years of togetherness ‘a spicy route’.

While I was outside the Rathod residency, wondering if I had reached the right address, I heard Roop Kumar Rathod’s voice.

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A warm smile of the soulful singer welcomed me inside the house where he was busy giving music lessons to his daughter Reewa

An eternal

bond

I quietly sat beside them, and for a moment I had forgotten the very reason for being there, and instead, focussed on soaking in the beauty of the moment. The aesthetically decorated house of the duo is sure to capture every visitor’s attention in an instant. After a while, Sunali joined us and her smile reflected the same warmth that is evident everywhere in the house. It didn’t take me any time to get comfortable with them and we started off with the interview on a casual note.

“music is a moral law. it gives soul to the universe, wings to the mind, flight to the imagination and gaiety to life and to everything” Plato February 2015 | www.spiceroutemag.com

You just celebrated your 25th wedding anniversary. How has the journey been so far?

Roop – It was in 1984 that we first performed together. Ours is a different chemistry altogether. She is my wife, beloved, lover, inspiration and friend. We have a healthy competition on stage and off stage as well. We have played a long inning together and feel a lot is still left to be done.

Sunali – It has been a satisfying, intriguing and a fun-filled journey. We have shared our moments of glory, highs and lows, and dissatisfaction where we felt we could have done better, like any other artist. Our love and devotion for music has given us the strength to carry on even after 30 years of singing.

You are seen as the most adorable husband-wife singing duo of the country. So how did it all begin?

Sunali – In 1980, when he was a sought -after tabla player, he was playing at the Cricket Club of India, Mumbai.

I was there in the audience and saw him playing with a cute smile on his face. I fell for him in an instant. Later, I heard him singing in the green room.

Coincidently, a Surat based organiser called us later and asked us to perform

I fell for him in an instant, and I believe we were destined to be in each other's lives together. I met him again and we fell in love. I feel we were destined to be in each other’s lives.

On stage, both of you command it, but who rules in the house?

Roop – At home, she is the boss, totally in control of everything.

Sunali – Fortunately for my daughter and unfortunately for me, she has turned 20. I am not allowed to enter her room as you can find things scattered in her room, about which I can hardly do anything. Roop also has the habit of keeping things here and there, which I arrange the moment I see it, and then he gets irritated when he does’nt find his things in place.

Father and daughter are the creative heads in the house and compose music, while I just listen to what they create and give my inputs.

Apart from music, what else is common between the two of you?

Roop – Our love for travel. This is one thing we both are passionate about.

On our anniversary last December, we

quick facts Favourite food Both of us can travel miles for good food. We eat everything and are fond of trying best local cuisines.

For example, if we are in Rajasthan, we would definitely eat daal bati churma, lal maas and jangli maas from the best place. We are fond of Chinese, Mughlai and overall any good food. favourite Travel destination Abroad, it is London and in India, we prefer going to the Himalayan hill stations. We also love Mahabaleshwar, as we end up going there at least twice a month.

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decided to go to Dhanachuli, which is near Almora in Uttarakhand. This place is like heaven. We had read about this destination in one of the magazines. There is just one hotel and as we went during the off season, there were no tourists.

We were lucky to get the undivided attention of the staff.

Sunali – At this stage of life, we have decided to become like vagabonds. We are both crazy about travelling as it helps us unwind. It’s a must for us to take such breaks from hectic city life. It works as nourishment for the soul and helps in the overall development of one’s personality.

Next, we plan to go to Cyprus.

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Tell us more about your recent album, Zikr Tera.

Roop – After Jagjit Singh ji, a big void has come in the world of ghazals. So we decided to pay a tribute to the legend through our album Zikr Tera. There are many who want to listen to good ghazals and my album is for all those people.

I have a collection of more than 8,000 poems and have selected the best romantic ones out of them for Zikr Tera. We decided to gift each other this album on the occasion of our anniversary, and hence it’s very special.

What do you have to say about the current music trend in India?

Roop – The scenario is different these days. Bollywood is ruling.

Many new singers are coming in the industry from musical reality shows, which is televised a lot these days. It is good, but there are many who suddenly come into the

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We need to educate our audience and make them fall in love with real poetry limelight because of these shows and then disappear. This is a very sad trend. Earlier, if a singer would sing one hit song, the next 20 years would be secured, but now there is uncertainty even after tasting success.

Many renowned musicians are struggling for their livelihood.

Once I asked my guruji how it felt when prestigious awards were conferred upon him? He replied that the biggest award for him was tuition, as that helps to run the house.

In other countries, musicians have royalty. So they freely focus on music without worrying about how to make ends meet. But here, musicians are constantly bothered about their livelihood and cannot concentrate on music alone.

I also feel we are losing touch with our language. We need to educate our audience and make them fall in love with real poetry.

Fortunately, I got to sing a few beautiful Bollywood songs like Maula mere maula, Rab ne bana di jodi, Dil ko tumse pyaar hua and all of them were well-accepted.

What future projects are you working on?

Roop – We have already recorded part II of Zikr Tera, which also has a romantic mood. There is another project with Ustad Amjad Ali Khan and Gulzar saab, which is in the pipeline.

The singing duo's favourite Travel destinations are hill stations in the Himalayas and Mahabaleshwar. spicejet offers flights to the nearest destinations that are Srinagar, dharamshala, dehradun & pune.

February 2015 | www.spiceroutemag.com

Drums on Fire

Ace drummer, percussionist and music director, Sivamani has toured the length and breadth of the world. Spiceroute quizzes the passionate musician about his travelling preferences.

Five things you never travel without... ○ Keyboard ○ Tiger balm ○ Wet tissues ○ Figurines of deities as I pray daily ○ Important documents (passport, visa, etc.)

Inflight entertainment...

I like to compose even during a flight. I plug in my headphones and lose myself in music.

I enjoy reading the inflight magazines, but I don’t prefer to read books.

How do you stay fresh & energised for every performance?

I always prefer to catch a nap in the flight if it’s an overnight journey. And when the concert starts, the adrenaline kicks in and the raw passion for my art takes over.

Favourite holiday destination...

Even though I travel a lot for professional reasons but when it’s time to take a break, I head to Rishikesh for a spiritual retreat or to yoga centres in the south.

Favourite destination for performances...

Goa, the crowd here is unbelievable!

A travel anecdote - Impromptu street performance in New York. I saw someone on the street playing an African instrument, a balafon, and requested him to let me try it. I went berserk with it, and quite an impressive crowd gathered around. Thereafter, the owner of the instrument gifted me the balafon.

During two separate performances, I got to meet former presidents, dr APJ Abdul Kalam and Nelson Mandela. I truly cherished those moments in my life.

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Green fascination

Coriander

Coriander is an integral part of Indian kitchen, heavily used for garnishing curries, salads and soups. Know more about it...

W ords | Nee l a m S i n gh

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oriander, commonly known as dhania in the Indian Subcontinent and cilantro in the Americas and some parts of Europe, is a herb extensively used around the world for culinary decoration and adding a fresh element to dishes.

Its scientific name is Coriandrum Sativum L. Native to the Middle East and southern Europe, it has been known in Asia and the Orient for millennia

Historical reference

Coriander has been referred to in the Bible in the books of Exodus and Numbers, where the colour of ‘manna’ is compared to coriander.

It was first introduced into Chinese medicine around 600 AD.

Each SpiceJet aircraft has been named after a particular spice. In this issue, we talk about the benefits and usage of Coriander.

February 2015 | www.spiceroutemag.com

facts • Coriander seeds are quite round like tiny balls. They lose their disagreeable scent on drying and become fragrant.

The longer they are kept, the more fragrant they become.

• All parts of this plant are edible, but the fresh leaves and the dried seeds are commonly used in cooking. The leaves have a different taste from the seeds, with citrus overtones.

The leaves should be added to warm/hot foods right before serving. The reason being that heat diminishes their flavour.

Health Benefits

○ Considered as an appetite stimulant, it helps in the secretion of gastric juices. ○ Due to its antibacterial properties, the leaves can be used as a fungicide. Coriander seeds are considered to have cholesterollowering properties. ○ Coriander has pain-relieving properties and is useful for headaches, muscle pain, stiffness and arthritis. ○ Coriander leaves are also a powerful natural cleansing agent.

They have been effectively used to cleanse heavy metals and toxic agents from the body. ○ Coriander has also a major role in the treatment of Alzheimer’s patients by limiting the neuronal

Coriander leaves are also a powerful natural cleansing agent damage in the brain. ○ It helps reduce the feeling of nausea and vomiting.

Usage

Coriander imparts freshness and exotic flavour.

Coriander can be taken as juice or in medicinal tea; it remains a strong source of vital nutrients in any way. Its seeds are used as spice.

Dried seeds are gently roasted and then ground to fine powder.

Roasting enhances the release of special aromatic compounds and essential oils in the seeds.

Storage The seeds as well as powdered coriander should be stored in airtight containers. Use this spicy powder as early as possible since it loses its flavour rather quickly due to evaporation of essential oils.

• Some Belgian beer breweries use coriander with orange peel to add citrus undertones to beer.

• In Europe it is called the 'antidiabetic' plant because it is believed to help control blood sugar. In India, it is used for its anti-inflammatory properties.

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Choc-o-Love

Wooing your loved ones with merely chocolates, is passe. To serenade lovers on Valentine’s Day, uniquely crafted desserts with chocolate are now on offer.

W ords | M i n i R ibeiro

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ating chocolate releases 'happy hormones' or endorphins and traditionally, lovers used to celebrate with chocolates. But gone are the days when lovers on Valentine’s Day wooed each other with an array of chocolates - liqueur, nuts, flavoured and so on.

Three All-Time Favourite Chocolate Desserts February 2015 | www.spiceroutemag.com

Today, innovation is the key and lovers settle for nothing but the best. Naturally then, pastry chefs are going all out to cater to this exclusive lot

Chocolate Cake

Death by Chocolate

Chocolates in a new avatar

Clearly, there’s a lot that can be done with chocolates. And the creativity of chefs knows no bounds. Chocolate Kumquat spring rolls that are cylindrical molten cakes with warm chocolate oozing out of a crisp pastry shell, Chocolate Eruption has liquid

Chocolate Mousse

chocolate oozing from soft chocolate sponge, served warm with vanilla ice cream are some of the unusual desserts being made with chocolate.

And those with a fetish for Indian sweets, can settle for Bharwan Gulab Jamun filled with dark chocolate.

Savio Fernandes, Executive Pastry Chef, JW Marriott Hotel Mumbai, feels that handcrafted custommade cakes using chocolate are still in fashion and can be extremely romantic. Five spice moist silk chocolate cake, Chocolate Cointreau Hazelnut Alkazart and Raspberry Almond Blondie are the few he has specially created for this day. He

Custom-made cakes using chocolate are still in fashion and extremely romantic adds, “Chocolate is considered an aphrodisiac, and once consumed, it leads to the release of enzymes which contain phenyl ethylamine, levels of which in the brain have been linked to falling in love. Chocolate has been used as a gift since the days of the Aztecs.”

Desserts with chocolates can indeed be many and while chefs

strive to be different, Chef Sanjana of La Folie believes that one can still do a lot with only chocolates. She relies on Madagascar. If not, then any good quality blend of 70%, she feels, is ideal for Valentine’s Day. She is planning to have a 'Naughty Valentine' at La Folie, where she will make special naughty bunny ears shaped pops, and chocolates in the shape of luscious lips and wholesome hearts. Normal is boring after all!

Pair it well

Chocolate as an ingredient, even when creating exciting desserts,

Did you know?

• Eating dark chocolate every day reduces the risk of heart disease by one third.

• For dark chocolate to be beneficial, cocoa or chocolate liquor should be the first ingredient listed, not sugar.

• In the film Psycho, Alfred Hitchcock used Bosco chocolate syrup for blood in the famous shower scene.

• The first machine-made chocolate was produced in Barcelona, Spain, in 1780.

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Try it at home!

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Cold Chocolate Mud Shake Recipe by Chef Savio Fernandes, Executive Pastry Chef, JW Marriott Hotel Mumbai Ingredients Quantity Egg yolks 3 nos Egg whites 3 nos Butter 100 gm Sugar 100 gm Almonds 100 gm Coffee 3 gm Chocolate (melted) 200 gm Flour 20 gm Craqulin Sugar 100 gm Butter 20 gm Almond crushed 50 gm Lime juice ½ tsp Hot milk 150 ml Dark chocolate 100 gm Drinking chocolate 5 gm Semi whipped cream 75 gm Chocolate sauce 10 ml Method 1. Beat egg whites and sugar to a stiff peak. Combine the rest of the ingredients and fold in the meringue. Pour into moulds, bake at 180° and cool it.

2. For the craqulin, combine everything, press it onto a sil pad & bake it. Cool and crush it.

3. Pour hot milk over the chocolate and stir till it melts.

4. Add in the drinking chocolate and chill it.

5. Take a part of the chocolate milk and blend it with 75 gm of mud cake.

6. Fold in the whipped cream in the other part of the milkshake.

7. Take a glass, line the base with crushed mud cake and craqulin, line the sides of the glass with chocolate sauce, pour the mud shake, then very carefully top the glass with the lighter chocolate milk shake. Top off with some whipped cream, dusted cocoa & craqulin.

February 2015 | www.spiceroutemag.com

can be somewhat limiting. So chefs go a step further and make use of other ingredients that blend well with it. Chef Savio is of the opinion that nuts, strawberries, berries and nougat blend well with it. He also recommends caramel popcorn tossed in dark chocolate, candied pineapple and candied pears coated in a dark chocolate, salted chips coated in chocolate and German Laugen stick covered in chocolate.

The chef at California Pizza Kitchen has created Chocolate Raspberry Mystic - a delicate chocolate mousse combined with winter raspberry marmalade, served with vanilla ice cream, which is perfect for rounding off a romantic Valentine’s Day dinner.

Proportion of ingredients that are combined with chocolate is critical. Too much of it can ruin the flavour. Some chefs even experiment with spices like cardamom, cinnamon, chilli, which lend desserts, a unique texture and aroma.

The higher the cocoa content in chocolate, the less sugar it contains. So chocolates for making desserts must be selected carefully. Dark chocolate is the most preferred variety by chefs.

Chefs even add spices like chilli to chocolates, lending a unique flavour However, white chocolate too does wonders in a dessert, opines Chef Savio. A gingerbread white chocolate ice cream, along with a hot chocolate plum pudding, drizzled with a dark truffle oil chocolate sauce, is apt for couples on Valentine’s Day.

Drinking chocolate

Chocolate based drinks have caught the fancy of chefs too. Chef Sanjana of La Folie is all set to serve a single origin Madagascar hot chocolate which has red fruit notes with aphrodisiac qualities. Chocolate Martinis again have gained popularity among young couples.

JW Marriott Mumbai has an unusual Cold Chocolate Mudshake with Almond Craqulin and a Hot Chocolate Mocha Rock lined up.

Chocolate is all about indulgence, so this Valentine’s Day try some unusual chocolate creations.

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Silent Sentiments

Mudras or hand gestures are an external expression of 'inner resolve', symbolising divine manifestation. Many such mudras were used in the Buddhist sculpture and paintings of India, Tibet, China, Korea and Japan. Know what they represent.

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ith its soaring central pyramidal tower, the Maha Bodhi Temple, Bodh Gaya, Bihar, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, dated to about the 6th century AD, casts a spell on both the beholder and seeker. Seated in the Bhumisparsa Mudra - with his right hand over the knee - it recalls his victory over the demon lord Mara. And in this quiet stance, the image takes the devotee and viewer 25 centuries back to a momentous event in the history when Prince Siddhartha received enlightenment and became Lord Buddha.

Buddha Image

In the centuries after Buddha’s passing away in around 486 BC, councils were held to discuss different interpolations of his original message and philosophy.

Differences in interpretation inevitably led to the emergence of different sects, and by the early centuries of the Christian Era, Mahayana Buddhism emerged

Sculpture and paintings depict Buddha in four basic positions - seated mostly in the cross legged stance, standing, reclining and walking - with the mudras enhancing their beauty and meaning.

February 2015 | www.spiceroutemag.com

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with a philosophy that significantly differed from the Hinayanas.

Essence of Truth and Divinity

In ensuing centuries, Buddha came to be represented in individual works and narrative panels depicting legends and events. And one of the most gentle yet powerful elements in the images are mudras, hand and finger postures, that in their simple and easy form speak of moments in the life of the Buddha and of virtues.

With the evolution of Buddhism several mudras came to be depicted with slight variations in each and their symbolism became more involved. By one interpretation, the right hand represents skillful action

In mudras, the right hand represents skillful action, and the left hand represents wisdom and contemplation

a combination of these elements.

Along with the mudras depicted in an image, the stance of the image, the throne or pedestal he is seated on, the presence of a halo, objects held in the hand add to the depth of the being and create a figure infused with belief.

and is thus represented as more active in stances of communication and the left hand represents wisdom and contemplation and is thus represented in a more passive stance. Another interpretation alludes to each finger starting with the thumb being identified with the five elements - sky, wind, fire, water and earth, and their connect alludes to the integration of the elements as each form in the universe comprises

The Mudras

As Prince Siddhartha, the Buddhato-be, meditated under the Bodhi Tree he sat cross-legged in the Dhyana Mudra with the back of right hand fingers resting on the fingers of the left hand and both hands resting on the lap with the tips of the thumbs touching, and the hands and fingers thus forming a triangle. It is believed to be a stance adopted by meditating sages in India since ancient times, signifying enlightenment prevailing over appearance, and is depicted only on the seated Buddha.

It was in this state that Mara, the Lord of Illusion, and his forces of demons tried to distract meditating Gautama from his quest as Mara realised Gautama was on the brink of attaining enlightenment. Yet the awakening Buddha overcame them, calling the earth to witness his victory over them by then moving his right hand over his knee with fingers extended below towards the earth as he sat cross-legged.

This mudra, that came to be known as the Bhumisparsa Mudra, is seen most often in seated Buddha images. The mudra is representative of peace, the dispelling of evil

Sculpture and paintings Mahayanas found it acceptable to sculpt and paint the Buddha image, which opened up a glorious chapter in Indian art. Thus, Bodhisattvas (spiritual beings who deferred their own enlightenment so that they can help human-

kind in their pursuit of self-realisation, as was the Buddha in his previous lives) and the Buddha came to be represented in images. In this way, chaityas (worship halls) were embellished with beautiful paintings and sculpture.

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and the moment of Buddha’s enlightenment.

After his enlightenment at Bodh Gaya, Lord Buddha travelled to Sarnath where he preached his first sermon to five ascetics at the Deer Park, and thus set in motion the Wheel of Law. The treasured moment, representative of the Buddha’s teachings, is depicted by the Dharmachakra Mudra that shows the seated Buddha with the thumb and index finger touching to form a circle as the palm faces outward. With the hand placed at the chest level, near the heart, the mudra also indicates that it is a message from the heart. The left hand may be in a similar stance with the palm facing inward.

The Buddha’s persona of bringing peace to the seeker is experienced in images depicting the Abhay Mudra, of right hand

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raised to about shoulder level, arm bent, palm facing outwards, fingers upright, joined and slightly curved, an ancient stance of blessing. It is seen in seated and standing figures of the Buddha. It was the same gesture made by the Buddha after receiving enlightenment and also when an elephant that was let loose to attack the Buddha came rushing towards him and was subdued

by his gentleness and gesture, indicating an absence of fear, peace and protection and conferring the same on the seeker.

Another mudra that also depicts bestowal is the Varada Mudra that shows compassion and the granting of boons through the right hand pointing downwards, the inner palm open and fingers stretched loosely, and is seen in standing and seated figures. The Varada Mudra may be combined with the Abhay Mudra.

The more one explores iconography and philosophy, the more layers each image seems to hold, the interpretations go deeper casting an intricate net of beliefs.

Viewing the beatific message aims to encourage the seeker to go within and absorb the beauty and nature of their being, and the eternal beauty of art, compassion and truth.

Breaking Barriers As Buddhism travelled to lands beyond India, its following grew and there are exquisite expressions of art and architecture that feature Buddha’s image in many Asian countries including China, Cambodia, Indonesia, Japan, Myanmar, South Korea, Sri Lanka and Taiwan.

February 2015 | www.spiceroutemag.com

Left: 1) Bhumisparsa Mudra 2) Abhay Mudra 3) Varada Mudra Below: Dharmachakra Mudra

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Classic Canvas The old order changeth giving way to the new. But why worry when old wine can be served in new bottles?

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ll of us are familiar with the old adage that goes ‘Make new friends but don’t forget the old, because new is silver but old is gold’. Living in India both in the pre and postliberalisation 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 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.

Design by Rohit Bal

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

Retro style refers to new things that display characteristics of the past. It suggests a fundamental shift in the way we relate to the past.

February 2015 | www.spiceroutemag.com

hot favourites 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 hookah. It has moved out of the traditional households to the new age cafes and retro bars. Most of these hotspots in the city boasts of hookah zones and you can see youngsters fervently engulfed in the hall of smoke, and enjoying every bit of it.

Hookah Bar infact is one song that is struck in the mind of many.

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,

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especially in summers. Homes with wooden machias, chatais and rocking chairs like the ones used by our grandfathers are back in fashion. Vessels that were used by our grandmothers to make dishes are being taken 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 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

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Copper utensils are making a major comeback in hotels and homes 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.

Well in the days of laser lights, it is the modest lalten (lanterns) that has 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. And which lady doesn’t like candle-lit dinners.

Did you know why? Because it is 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, women’s lowers with 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

terracotta beauty Drinking tea in kulhar is a divine experience, and we have restaurants that serve tea, buttermilk and other beverages in these terracotta cups for a native feel. Of late, they have sneaked into five star hotels too.

So much for authenticity!

February 2015 | www.spiceroutemag.com

fashion circuit. If you thought that Kanjeevarams and Pochampallis are outdated, think again. We have Vidya Balan making a fashion statement in traditional silk sarees and nobody can ever miss out Bollywood diva Rekha who endorses traditional Kanjeevarams.

Jewellery is the most loved accessory of women and has always been a significant part of their attire.

The timeless appeal of antique jewellery never fades. Though genuine pieces may be hard to find, jewellers and designers are reviving vintage designs and bringing out retro lines. The side tiara (a jewellery for the head) has made a comeback

at weddings. Bollywood, of course, glamourised 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.

Days and years pass and old order changeth giving place to the new but remember life comes a full circle.

Vintage delights • Many photographers and film-makers shoot in black and white or sepia toned to get the effect of early films.

• Local Indian bags, jholas have become a rage once again. Dressed in various materials, adorned with jewellery and patchwork, they are widely popular today.

• Apart from tradition, the entire movement for organic food is a big step towards going back to the days of our ancestors, when fresh produce was paramount.

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Mix’em in a

mocktail 74

Dedicate this New Year to your health, and detox your system with fresh & fruity mocktails.

W ords | S iddh a rth M J oshi

Signature mocktails: @ ORO the bar, Radisson Blu: Blu Topaz, Oro Blitz, Minty Adams February 2015 | www.spiceroutemag.com

@ Le Bistro Du Parc: Mandarin Mojito, Watermelon and Mint, Watermelon Fizz Pomo Belli Berry

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f Shirley Temple, Atomic Cat, Banana Bonkers and Virgin Daiquiri sound like psychedelic pop bands from the 80s, you need to open your eyes, draw in the aroma and take a long drag at the straw, for you are up for a delightful initiation in the colourful world of mocktails.

Mocktails, popularly called so for their semantic play of the original bittered sting cousin, cocktail, are the latest fad in the beverage industry, wooing many takers with its freshness Though they have been around for almost two decades now, the latest trends in their composition and appearance have opened doors for an unparalleled world of innovation.

“It is important that a mocktail is more than a regular functional soft drink. For a bartender, it should not lose its playfulness and should be fun,” says Sandy, owner and bartender at Sandy’s Cocktails & Kitchen.

He further elaborates, “The ingredients should suggest decadence and should have the same flavour complexity and balance as a cocktail.” In fact, the absence of alcohol makes their mixing horizons even broader.

Most commonly used variables in a standard mocktail that include fresh juices, syrups, cream, aerated beverages, still beverages, herbs, spices and more.

Why a mock drink?

It is clear that people don’t want to remain limited to the confines of bottled colas just because they don’t

Mocktails offer patrons an experience of mixology consume alcohol. They are now better educated about the good and bad aspects of what they eat and drink. So, mocktails offer them the experience of mixology, while still giving them the control of not just the product but also the ingredients that go in them.

“Mocktails are designed especially for those who do not take alcoholic beverages or need to refrain from them,” explains Vishnu Bhagour, Mixologist at Oro the Bar at Radisson Blu, Pashchim Vihar, New Delhi. “The virgin (alcohol free) versions of many traditional cocktails such as Pina Colada, Mojito, Bloody Mary, Daiquiri and many more, cater to all age segments, unlike cocktails,” he further adds.

Often customers want something to drink to detoxify their system.

Arjun Bhagirath from Barrels, Vasant Vihar, New Delhi, experimented with a smooth tangy taste with time tested ingredients and brought out the Antioxidant Supreme, with unique antiaging benefits.

“It’s quite popular among girls and ladies, though men are not far behind.

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ORO BLITZ Ingredients: Blue Curacao (Non Alcoholic) - 40 ml Simple Sugar Syrup - 20 ml Fresh Lime Juice - 15 ml Ginger ale to top up Pineapple juice - 30 ml Method: 1. Pour 40ml Blue Curacao in Tulip Glass 2. Add Sugar syrup & Lemon Juice.

3. Pour Pineapple Juice 4. Top up with Ginger Ale.

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It is a perfect combination of orange juice, grapes, kiwi and raspberry.

Given that a chill is in the air, it also boosts the immune system against catching cold,” says Arjun.

For all occasions

Whether it’s the need of cutting back on calories at a party or just to add a sweet drink to your dinner, mocktails serve all purposes without the least trace of guilt or

risk. “Every occasion can be paired with a special kind of mocktail to add punch to the dining experience.

From party to formal get-togethers, mocktails can be paired nicely with any kind of cuisine. We believe in providing fresh and scintillating drinks which go well with the food,” opines Naina de Bois-Juzan, founder of Le Bistro Lu Parc in Delhi.

These colourful, healthy options allow guests to feel part of the fun without feeling left out by not having a festive and trendy drink in their hands.

Bhagour adds, “Every specific occasion has its own trendy mocktail. In summer, we have iced or chilled versions, such as Beat The Heat. During winters, we offer, among others, Christmas specials, Christmas Snowball and Christmas Virgin Cosmopolitan. Even a diet special mocktail is also in trend, finding many takers among those who are health-conscious.”

Decoding signature drinks @Smoked Biryani House, Noida: Rapchik Mango A fusion of mango,coconut and mint makes it a refreshing mocktail.

Ingredients: Vanilla ice cream, mango juice, coconut syrup and mint leaves February 2015 | www.spiceroutemag.com

It’s got the look

One of the most attractive propositions with ordering mocktails is how dazzling they look. Layers of different colours sandwiched together in various monin syrups, flavoured beverages, ice and other ingredients do the trick.

“The reason why most people are taking to mocktails is because they are curious when they see diners in the next table having one,” says Japit Singh, Mixologist at Flluid, Mosaic Hotels, Noida.

While alcohol provides a strong flavour and body to a cocktail, and acts as a numbing agent, thus discounting any imbalances in the accompanying flavours, mocktails are more challenging for bartenders.

Embracing that creative perfection has lent them a better standing in the beverage industry.

So, this time you choose to dine fine, drop the lemonade and order a Mid Summer Dream.

@The Ancient Barbeque, Noida & Gurgaon: Winter Slide It is a perfect mix of grilled pineapple, bbq dishes and pepper.

Ingredients: Grilled pineapple, pepper, sugar syrup and lime juice

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a sense of style

Design trends are changing every day, faster than ever. Designer Yamini Agarwal shares some upcoming interior trends for 2015.

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ue to diversity in personalities and choices, highly customised interiors have given birth to an era of design where the classic, modern, contemporary and organic design forms co-exist in their own niches.

2015 beholds a future of amalgamation.

ECLECTIC DECOR

Eclectic interiors are a mix and match of the old and new for renewed elegance.

This trend has been developing since 2013 and will move on further through 2015. Embrace this highly personalised design movement by bringing a few family treasures out of hiding

Thoughtfully select one or two pieces, rather than an entire curio cabinet. A crowd of these collectibles can read as clutter, but a prized piece integrated into your existing decor will come off as charming.

SHAPES

The trends are moving slowly from a straight line modern form to a curvaceous contemporary. We are looking forward to a future of design that is easy on the eyes, comfortable

Copper and Brass have returned with a bang this year in light fixtures. Opt for a collection of organic shapes in light shades in these materials or combine a variety of shapes to create a grand chandelier of your own to fit the trends.

February 2015 | www.spiceroutemag.com

GO GREEN

Recycled materials, furniture, artefacts and accessories are the ultimate future of creative sustainable design solutions. The way we live in the world and what we take from it ultimately has a direct impact on us.

Eco-friendly design, sustainability, passive homes, products that require less energy, reducing the running costs of our homes, new lighting options, repurposing, re-cycling, up-cycling and new hybrid materials continue to emerge.

yet creative, redefining the ergonomics of a space. Accents of less rigid and more organic inspired shapes will be seen as innovative additions to spaces in the form of lighting, ceramics, glassware and accessories. Graceful, rounded, expanded looking shapes continue to be very popular.

PATTERNS & FABRICS

We are out with the floral and damask prints as geometric and abstract patterns better compliment modern and contemporary interiors. Strong geometric designs, 3D patterns, repeated forms, kaleidoscopic images, fluid prints, peacock feather patterns, photographic images, graded dip dye designs, text, blurred images and tropical prints are definitely back on the rise. In 2015, such organic patterns in monotones will create visual impact. Fabrics are about texture be it visual or otherwise. Velvet, textures and raw looking weaves are becoming popular.

TEXTURES

Play of textures added through an assortment of materials such as wallpapers, fabric and leather panelling, wood, metal, stone, tile and glass cladding in various effects on all surfaces is trending high. Simple furniture accessorised with creative artefacts added as loud accents in metals and abstract forms. Textures derived from nature, whether they are animal, mineral or vegetable are in. Botanical, insect prints, fossils, bone, wood, bark, stone and organic shapes are all raw natural textures that will be

In India specifically, due to abundance of sunlight, investment in solar power systems is increasing to reduce the carbon footprint as well as cost.

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emerging in 2015. Raw wooden finishes are gaining popularity over shiny. Materials and finishes tend to look more authentic and we use them in more simple ways in order to appreciate their beauty. Additionally, metals like copper, brass, pewter, gold have an increased preference compared to just chrome and stainless steel.

COLOuR

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With Marsala, declared as the colour of 2015 by Pantone, a warm and prominent shade to add to your interiors, a diverse colour palette will be seen this year. Gentle colours like muted pastels, smoky shades of grey, soft neutrals, metal hues, rich leather and marine tones will be seen teamed along with colours at the opposite end of the spectrum such as vibrant jewel and fruit colours. Paint colours for the home still revolve around sophisticated basics with preference for clean white, smoky

Matte finish materials have taken over the gloss and high gloss surfaces neutral, beige and muted pastels.

Feature walls are out and zone painting schemes are in.

MATERIALS

Increased awareness and availability of uncommon materials have opened doors of creativity.

Designers are using rare stones, polycarbonates, reclaimed wood, laminam tiles, etc., in extremely innovative ways. Matte finish materials have taken over the gloss and high gloss surfaces. This trend is growing in everything from tapware, lighting, hardware, furniture, accessories, kitchens and bathrooms to entire rooms.

PHOTOGRAPHIC ART

Manipulated photographic images with soft filters to add a nostalgic dream like quality will be seen in wall art, soft furnishings and accessories.

Advancements in digital printing have made the possibilities to use images on surfaces such as custom printed wallpapers, rugs, furnishings and artworks of any dimension.

HIDING THE HIDEOUS

There is a considerate development and urge to hide the unattractive aspects of design to make it look cleaner and minimalistic. Lights, hardware, electrical fittings, plumbing lines, etc., are the ugly necessities in our spaces that are now easily concealed in creative design features making the interiors look smarter and more functional. In the coming trends, we will see further disappearance of such features behind innovative ideas.

TECHNIQUES Precision and perfection of design in various materials is now achieved easily through the latest technology which is creating its niche in the market and will form the future of commercial interior surfaces. With this in effect, our appreciation for handmade or hand-crafted February 2015 | www.spiceroutemag.com

items has increased respect and value.

Craft made items offer a sense of lost authenticity in the current mechanised and mass produced world. Skills like binding, weaving, knotting, quilting and needlework will be evident in furnishings and accessories.

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a whiff of

goodness

From dispersing the aroma of plant products to scented baths and aromatherapy massage, there are several ways to relieve stress and bring about relaxation of both body & mind.

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reatments that help to relieve stress, induce relaxation, help mood upliftment, or relieve fatigue, have become so relevant to modern life. That is why treatments based on aromatherapy and essential oils have also gained popularity.

Actually, this is not at all a modern concept, because such treatments have been in use since the ancient times

Ancient Ayurvedic texts contain records of the aromatic oils and plant extracts that were used to treat psychological and psychosomatic problems, as their fragrances were said to influence the nervous system and induce calm and relaxation. Dried flowers and leaves, for example, can be

Aroma means scent and therapy means treatment. Aromatherapy is the use of aromatic plants to improve your health and wellbeing. Inhaling the appropriate fragrance can reduce stress, lift depression, soothe your soul or rejuvenate you.

February 2015 | www.spiceroutemag.com

used as potpourri and left around the house. All one has to do is add a few drops of an essential oil to these at intervals.

Aromatherapy candles

Aromatherapy candles and their aromas can evoke varied responses.

Just smelling them can have the power to alter a person’s mood or mental state. Candles are a wonderful way of diffusing the atmosphere around you with fragrance, to calm you, make you feel relaxed and reduce stress.

While buying aromatherapy candles, you can ask for particular scents. You may go for lavender, which induces relaxation or jasmine that heightens the senses and uplifts the mood. Rose calms and refreshes the mind, while cinnamon is said to relieve fatigue.

Another way of dispersing aroma is by using these special tea light holders, in which there is a recess below to burn a candle (tea light), while water, with a few drops of essential oil, is placed above.

The heat from the candle warms the water and helps to disperse the aroma. In your diffuser, you can put 2 drops of rose or lavender essential oil along with 2 drops of lemon oil in the water. Geranium oil also

Candles diffuse the atmosphere around you with fragrance and reduce stress

oil effect Lavender is known as the 'universal oil' for its calming, earthy, lightly sweet and freshly floral scent.

The comforting warm and exotic aroma of Frankincense is best for stress relief. however, it may also be applied topically to the skin to rejuvenate cells and repair scar tissue, or used to calm certain respiratory conditions such as asthma, cough and bronchitis.

helps to uplift the mood. It is said to soothe people when there is anxiety and depression. Geranium is also great for stress-related conditions like acne. Rosemary oil can also be used. It helps in relieving muscular tension and fatigue and thus destresses both body and mind. Put a few drops of rosemary oil in a simmer pot or diffuser.

Evaporation

You may also try dry evaporation.

Use cotton ball or tissue, put a few drops of essential oil, then allow to evaporate. Another way is to spray

Rose oil is a highly versatile essential oil. It not only provides relief from stress and depression, but is also helpful for the treatment of eczema and menopausal symptoms.

Vanilla essential oil is effective in relieving upset stomach and reducing cravings for sweets.

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Almond or sesame seed (til) oils make good carrier oils for blending with essential oils, for body massage.

Essential oils, like oils of rose, orange flower (neroli), lemon or lavender, can also be added to rose water, to make a skin tonic. Add 5 drops of the essential oil to 50ml rose water. Oil of neroli added to rose water can benefit dry and dehydrated skin. Oils of lavender or lemon added to rose water can benefit oily skin. Use these blends as natural fragrances.

Inhale goodness

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the essential oil into the air as a deodoriser or freshener. In a spray bottle, add a few drops of essential oil in water and mix well.

Essential oils can also be added to bath water to soothe and calm the mind, as well as remove fatigue.

Rosemary oil or cinnamon oil, would be good. Or, you can choose from lavender or a citrus oil. They can also be used in foot baths. Soaking the feet in hot water is relaxing by itself and adding an essential oil to the hot water gives the added benefits of the aroma. During summer, add sandalwood oil to your bath water or foot bath. It is a natural coolant, has a calming effect on the mind and also protects and heals skin problems. Or you can add a lavender skin tonic or rose water to warm bath water.

Essential oils can also be added to bath water to soothe and calm the mind Give yourself a light massage of the head, using only the finger tips, with oils containing brahmi and bhringaraj. These herbs help reduce stress, bring about relaxation and nourish the nervous system.

Add 10 drops of an essential oil, like rose or lavender or neroli to 50 ml of carrier oil. Blend in small quantities so that it does not turn rancid. This makes a good massage oil, leaving the body fragrant. If you wish to blend two oils together, make sure that the total amount of oil is 10 drops to 50 ml carrier oil.

Yoga, pranayama and meditation can easily be adapted to our modern lifestyle. You can easily start with simple breathing and see how it actually helps to destress and bring about a feeling of calm. Deep breathing is an excellent means of reducing stress.

You may sit in a comfortable chair with feet flat on the floor. Your body should be relaxed. Close your eyes and begin breathing, slowly and with ease. Allow your mind to follow your breathing as you inhale and exhale. Breathe in slowly and deeply and then breathe out slowly. By focussing attention on your breathing you have pushed all other thoughts away for a while. Place an aromatherapy candle, tealight diffuser, or potpourri near you whilst deep breathing and meditation.

For those beautiful eyes Soak cotton wool pads in rose water and use them as eye pads. Place them over closed eyelids, lie down and relax for 20 minutes. This really helps to induce relaxation, reduce stress, remove fatigue and brighten the eyes.

February 2015 | www.spiceroutemag.com

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in new ways

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The key to keep ourselves glued to an exercise routine is to break the monotony and try out new interesting weight training tools.

W ords | R a j a n y P r a dh a n

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et’s face it! A well-toned body gives us a different high. But the moment it comes down to spending those extra hours in the gym, doing the same exercises every day, many of us back out. We tend to get bored with exercises quickly and the hyperenthusiasm with which we join a gym fizzes out within no time.

So, to keep up your spirits high, experiment with your exercise routine and try out new weight training tools like kettlebells, sandbells, kamagon ball, TRX and sandrope battle rope

They not only help to burn calories faster but tones down the body in a shorter period of time.

“Weight training is crucial for weight loss and overall fitness at the same time. While working out on machines, we restrict our movements; in functional training, we can use our maximum joints and muscles in every movement.

in order to lose weight, it is imperative to avoid stress at all costs. stressful situations like work-related pressure, financial woes will reflect on your waist. so in addition to exercise, meditate or take up a hobby to relax and unwind.

February 2015 | www.spiceroutemag.com

Latest weight training equipment not only gives faster result, but has the advantage of portability,” says Rajeev Sejwal, Head Coach, Reebok CrossFit Gym, Gurgaon.

Kettlebells

Kettlebells are unique fitness tools resembling a mini bowling ball with a handle. “They help to work on variety of muscle groups. Kettlebells create an imbalance that body has to respond to and in this process burn a lot of calories,” says fitness trainer Sonia Bajaj.

Kettlebells are great for cardio, strength and flexibility training.

Start with the weight you are comfortable with and increase slowly. Women usually stick to weights between 8 to 16 kg, while men go for 16 to 32 kg.

There are different forms of exercise that one can try with kettlebells, including kettlebells swing exercises that mainly works on the shoulders, back, hip, gluts and leg.

“Performing snatches with kettlebells is equal to someone running at a pace of six minutes per mile or doing cross country skiing uphill at fast pace,” says Sejwal.

Sandbells

Sandbells are an amazing tool to do functional workouts which increases body strength to do daily chores of life. As the workout involves many muscle groups at a time, it helps a lot in fat loss. They can help you do a rigorous total-

Sandbells is an amazing tool to do functional workouts

sandbell with two hands and with weight at chest height, sit back and down into a squat. Pressing off the heels, use the legs to explode out of the squatted position. When at the top of the squat, press the weight overhead. Then, return the weight to the chest and repeat the movement. There are many such exercises that one can do with sandbells and work on different parts of the body.

Kamagon ball body workout too.

One such exercise that anyone can do using a sandbell is thruster.

A blend of front squat and an overhead press, thruster is useful for both legs and lungs.

To start with, grab hold of the

workout tips for beginners • Before starting any rigorous workout, always carry out a warm up routine.

• Remember to stay adequately hydrated during your exercise regime.

• Choose your exercise

•

Kamagon ball is surely the next big thing in the world of fitness.

Whether it comes to full-body workouts or strength training, kamagon ball scores the highest on every aspect. It is also safe and easy to use at the same time. The best part about kamagon ball is that you

equipment carefully and with much thought.

If it's important not to exercise on a full stomach, then one must not exercise on an empty one. Nibble on some biscuits or bananas before a workout.

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Try this now!

Kettlebells are durable gyming equipment that can be easily used at home too. Try the following exercises, but do take care. Do not over exert yourself if working out in the absence of an instructor:

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russian kettlebell swing Targetting the backs, hips, glutes, shoulders, legs, the Russian Kettlebell Swing is easy for beginner level. Stand up straight with feet a bit wider than hip-distance apart. Grab the handle of the kettlebell with both hands, keeping the palms face down and arms in front of your body.

Maintain a slight bend to the knee and drive the hips back, lowering the body — but not too low, for this isn't a squat.

Then, in a fluid motion, explosively drive the hips forward while swinging the kettlebell, keeping the glutes and core engaged.

Remember: The motion should come from the hips, not the arms, as the body returns to standing. Lower the weight back down between the legs and keep this swinging motion going for 12 to 15 repetitions.

Keep it simple: Move whenever and however you can

need not buy new equipment every time you wish to go on an advanced level; just add water to change the weight. It’s durable so you can do fun exercises like throwing it on the ground which helps to gain balance, core strength and burns fat too.

Sandrope battle rope

The latest innovation in functional fitness equipment is sandrope battle rope which is now being introduced in many fitness studios and gyms.

Sandrope has many advantages over regular battling ropes as they require minimum space and as they are filled with sand, the challenge of grip strength is much more. One can do regular exercises with sandrope like whipping, doing circle motions with arms or creating a wave in the rope. So February 2015 | www.spiceroutemag.com

TRX allows one to lose weight & build muscle at the same time if you wish to get strict with your muscles and cardiovascular system, sandrope is there to help you do the same.

“Fitness industry is diversifying itself. New techniques are more focussed on functional training, rather than traditional heavy weight training and running on the treadmill,” says Sonia. So gear up to blast fat in a fun way and flaunt your sculpted body to the world.

TRX

It is a portable fitness equipment.

As most of the workouts with TRX involve the body in a suspended position, it helps a lot in weight loss, body sculpting and increasing strength. TRX is an ideal way to lose weight and build muscle at the same time. This is a one-stop solution for an overall body workout and helps to break the monotony of gym workouts. Workout with TRX involves many muscle groups, hence showing amazing results.

Sandhiya Mehhta Numerologist and Vastu consultant

‘Sandhiya Mehhta received the ‘Glory of India’ award for outstanding achievements and services to the nation by Former Deputy Prime Minister of Thailand on 15th january, 2015.’

The nation changed as it was supposed to, Modi Wave predictions have come true.

Sandhiya Mehhta is a world known ace Numerologist and Vastu consultant with ultimate knowledge and wisdom in her subject that no one has matched.

She has not only studied Numerology thoroughly but also researched and developed further to expand its reach to each and every human soul and guide them to their enchanting dreams and make them come alive.

She has been guiding and helping people for more than two decades and her charisma and enthusiasm in the field has won her Awards like, ‘The Nari Ratna Award, Indira Gandhi Priyadarshini award, Rastriya Rattan Award, 4P Brand, Mahila Shiromani Award, Global Indian Leaders Excellence Award, titled ‘The Indian Nostradamus’ etc.

“A bright star has its own energy; but to light up a lamp in the dark is much more powerful,” and with that motto she leads her life and helps all sorts of individuals.

Numerology is a science of accuracy, the first predictive occult science. In ancient times people used stars as a numerical reference to count things and plan their lives. Today when we have all the knowledge, we don’t need stars, we just need a number and then study it accordingly. A number changes things, it tells you a precise year that your life is turning, and allows you to prepare for it. Knowledge is simple, but to plan for the future is upon you, and if you do this well numerology will help you tremendously to grow, rise and shine.

However let me clarify any name change, mantra’s, fasting, spelling changes cannot guarantee you results. “To a person who seeks success, my system of numerological calculations will bring success, happiness and prosperity. And to those who are already successful it will bring sustainability, positive reinforcements, further success and an introduce to a new and higher perspective and lifestyle.”

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Her methods “I do not just give predictions and sit as a numerologist, I communicate, consult and empower your energies for a better life”.

To see a hurdle as a problem is foolish, but to learn the path and use a different course is wise. I work with an aim of guiding people to sustain and grow their positive energies and to work on their weaknesses, make them stronger and positive for a future course. We all are blessed by positive energies, just not all. So to recognize what is missing, and to uplift it is my strength as a Numerologist.

This study of missing numbers in your birth graph helps me to determine what are the strong energies that I can see in you and uplift these energies to suit to your dreams and ambitions. By way of using self improvement and certain other tools and remedies that I have developed over a period of time we can uplift these energies and get a little extra boost that your fortune needed.

4 & 8 the deadly duo Her findings show that 70% in this world are born with the number 4 & 8. We know them as rahu-ketu & connect them usually to disappointment’s delays and sorrows. But they also have the power to give you more than they take in the end.

A person with 4 & 8 can take benefits from numerology & understand which years of his life are turning out to gain positive forces from these numbers. As per that they can channelize their energy and make the most of those years, which if not for prior knowledge he would have skipped or not worked hard in. It is a blessing in disguise; it teaches you lessons in life and makes you a stronger person, and to find a partner with the same number will be the best marriage

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

How does numerology help me: Numerology is the only work of occult science which deals in numbers directly, and so one does get to work with the closest association of our daily lives. Our age, finances, the turnaround years, the lucky dates, months. Once you have your detailed consultation, one can then plan his life. ‘To have the knowledge is the supreme power you will ever receive, and numerology will give you the knowledge about “Yourself ”.’

Overseas but curious: “I have many clients overseas who are so attached to me and have a faith in my system. One can just learn about themselves, understand his life in a much better way, no matter where you reside, what faith you belong to or what are your inhibitions, you should never deny yourself the knowledge of your own self ” Results There is a Buddhist saying, ‘you yourself must strive; the Buddha just point the way.”

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

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

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

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

For daily predictions follow:

Twitter handle: @SandhiyaMehta Facebook: Sandhiya.Mehhta

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

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Lovestruck Retail

This Valentine’s Day, give the regular chocolates and flowers a skip. As gifting is often a difficult and tedious task, take a look at what we have in store.

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Look suave in Mickey Singh's collection of men's accessories Pick up a classic Truefitt & Hill shaving set

It's all about boats, sails & charts with Coastal Living by Portico New York home furnishing

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For Her

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Acquire that perfect glow with Innisfree wine peeling jelly scrub

Shade your eyes with Maui Jim's Keanae, that is light as a feather

Store your jewellery in this cute miniature cupboard by Vrieti

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Channelise your Energy

Explore the world of belief systems, limitlessness and possibilities by realising your inner power. Read on...

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e humans are the most powerful beings on this planet and we have the potential to command anything in this universe for our best. It is all due to our disbelief systems and programmes we have stored in our subconscious mind that we limit ourselves.

Energy healing involves working with the most powerful elements of nature and universe, utilising the ever powerful mystic science, which controls ‘all that is’ It is a key to the world of limitless possibilities. It merges us with every element of nature

to the level where we share space and become one with everything around us to command things for

The Theta Healing technique is a meditation technique and spiritual philosophy for your mind, body and spirit that allows you to clear limiting beliefs and live life with positive thoughts, developing virtues in all that we do.

February 2015 | www.spiceroutemag.com

our benefit. The higher we go, the deeper we dig within and make changes.

Purpose of Life

The purpose of life is to exuberate unconditional love and live fearlessly.

Our fears, hate, anger, rejections, resentments, regrets and more of such feelings and programmes become obstacles in our life and prevent us from achieving what we want despite our best efforts. These negative feelings then manifest in the form of illnesses and blocks.

A healer helps you release these negative programmes and create new and positive programmes to better life and situations. He/she helps you expand your consciousness and to attract anything you want for your betterment.

Know your power

Remember your mind is the most powerful magnet ever created by the creator and it has the ability to attract just about anything, but this only works when the mind is free from any negative aspect.

Healing involves working with your own energy. Connecting to your higher self and tapping into your own potential of changing anything physical, emotional and psychological for your benefit.

Through theta healing and hypnosis, one attains the ability to unlock one’s own subconscious programmes. It helps you to heal your own diseases, disorders and situations you are not happy with.

Role of Healing and Healer

Theta healing and hypnotherapy has witnessed all kinds of healing, illnesses, disorders, social issues, financial issues and more. People come with different kinds of problems, both physical and mental, physical being diseases and disorders, and mental being fears and phobias. Usually people come

Theta healing and hypnosis help to attain the ability to unlock one’s own subconscious with problems they face in their everyday life, for example conflicts at their work place, relationship issues, sibling rivalry, lack of confidence and any kind of mental blocks and perceptions.

Most of them are unaware of the real problems as to why they are in a fix, and hence it’s a healer’s job to first understand the case and

figure out the core problem that the person is facing. There are different sources of these problems which are core level (early childhood), soul level, DNA and past lives. Once the source is identified, the healer takes the person to a theta state (hypnotic) and changes the programme by creating a neuro path from the person’s brain to his/her body, which creates a positive programme.

For more information, visit www.lifenliving.in or write to bhawnadatta@lifenliving.in and learn about Theta Healing, Regression Therapy, Clinical Hypnotherapy and counseling.

The author is a certified Theta Healer and a certified hypnotherapist. She has also completed an integrated course on past life regression therapy and Foreign Energy Dynamics since 2007.

She is experienced in mental, physical, emotional, spiritual healing and counseling.

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Testing times

As examinations hover closer this time of the year, we offer some tips to help kids prepare themselves mentally.

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he months of February and March may herald the end of the financial year, but for kids it means only one thing - examinations loom near. And if adequate time has not been devoted to each subject, they tend to cram all the information together, affecting both mental and physical health.

I remember one year when I had not prepared well for my exams, and had set an alarm on my father’s phone so I could wake up early on the day and finish as much of the syllabus as I could. Every time I heard the ring of the alarm, I would jump out of bed in panic.

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Even today, when I hear the same alarm tone, I quietly remind myself that I’m not in school anymore. So why put yourself through this in the first place?

It is understood that one method of studying and preparation may work for someone, but not for another. It is all a matter of practice and comfort. Try the tips below and see what works best for you.

Children should drink plenty of water throughout their study time, and also during exams. Being well hydrated is essential for the brain to work at its best. Fresh air and sunlight can do a lot to help children handle exam stress.

February 2015 | www.spiceroutemag.com

you can do it!

Daily routine Studying daily is extremely important, even if it is for a little while. If you are finding it difficult to study, take a break, make a snack or watch some television, let your mind wander. Once you've felt fresh and energised enough, give that difficult mathematical theorem a try once more.

Preparation Clear your head

A 15-minute exercise will help clear your brain, spark the adrenaline and make the blood rush faster. Studying after a short workout period will help you retain information.

Pay attention

Sometimes, attending all the classes won’t help. You have to listen carefully to what is being taught in class. Often, teachers cull out a question paper based on what they have taught in class, the examples and discussions that have taken place and not just what is included in the text book. Also at home, ensure you spend time away from your smartphone and other kinds of distraction.

Frame your answers

It is prudent to practice writing answers at home. One should be able to first understand what the question is all about, formulate the answer quickly in your head and endure that certain important points must be mentioned. Always frame your answer with an introduction, body and conclusion and add examples wherever possible.

Keep your study area free from clutter. A neat table reflects an organised mind Organise your notes

When it comes to notes, students develop a fixed practice. Pencil scrawls in every possible edge of the page, sticky notes fluttering or even the oft seen, maintenance of separate notebooks. Of course, there is no perfect or correct way of doing this, but working out a method that suits and helps you is essential.

Maintain a neat environment

Be it your room or your study table, keep your study area free from clutter. An organised environment reflects an organised mind, and you will not realise how effectively it will help your studying patterns.

Plan yourself When studying at home, make short-term and long-term plans to finish your syllabus.

Set alarms, wall planners, make lists and time limits. This will help you keep your eye on the main goal, as well as break down the larger portions into smaller chunks.

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but one should at least try and aim for it. This level of preparation will help you stay calm and focussed on the day of your exam.

Snack healthy

While studying, many tend to crave for food, and may overeat on unhealthy snacks. Arm yourself with dry fruits, biscuits and fruits to help you stay alert while studying, keeping hunger at bay.

Get adequate sleep

It is imperative to allow your brain to rest, and sleep over all that you have studied. A fresh mind will be able to tackle mental exercises more easily.

Study together

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Often, studying becomes easier if you have a buddy along. Get together with friends for a study session. You may have questions that they have the answers to and vice versa. As long as you make sure you stay focussed on the topic for an agreed amount of time, this can be one of the most effective ways to challenge yourself. If you need help in Biology, reach out to a friend who is comfortable with the subject, and if you can help someone, do it.

Explain your answers to others The best way to test your base concepts and knowledge is to try and teach someone. Use your parents and little brothers and

sisters to your advantage. Explain an answer to a question to them. That will help you to get it clear in your head, and also to highlight any areas where you need more work.

Quick tip: Review the toughest material right before going to bed the night before the test. It makes it easier to recall the material later.

Set time aside for revision

Get everything ready well in advance of the exam. Check all the rules and requirements, and plan your route and journey time so that you reach well before time.

A week before the exam one should prepare a revision schedule. This may seem like an idealistic situation,

Plan your day

Stay calm

Do not panic at the exam! Go through the entire test paper and take a deep breath. If a question seems too hard, answer all the questions you know, then return to the ones you left blank. Remind yourself that you are prepared.

Good Luck!

Fun breaks Studying for hours without a break will tire you and ruin concentration. Take frequent short breaks while studying. It is important to have some fun so reward yourself for achieving what you set out to do.

Motivation can be helped if you have something to look forward to.

February 2015 | www.spiceroutemag.com

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dazzling city of

udaipur

Resplendent with Rajput glory, the city of lakes has majestic palaces, mesmerising havelis, narrow lanes and shimmering lakes. There is much to explore in this romantic destination.

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Lake Pichola is an artificial fresh water lake named after the village Picholi.

Maharana Udai Singh founded the city of Udaipur on the banks of this lake.

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SpiceJet offers daily connections from delhi to udaipur.

For details log on to www.spicejet.com

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1. The Mewar Light & Sound Show is conducted every evening at City Palace complex depicting the history of Mewar.

2. Chetak Smarak was built in the memory of Rana Pratap's horse, Chetak, who died after helping the Rajput ruler to escape from the battle of Haldighati.

3. J ag Mandir, a palace built on an island in Lake Pichola, and is now a favourite wedding.

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1. The band at City Palace performs daily in the evening. 2. Sheesh Mahal inside Bagore ki Haveli is made out of glass.

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3. Gangaur Ghat located in the heart of city is popular among tourists for hotels and eating joints. Many movies have been shot here.

4. M otichoor ke laddoo in making at a roadside sweet shop 5. Turban collection inside Bagore ki Haveli Museum has the world's largest turban (151 ft) on display.

6. Wall art - a common feature outside the houses.

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Developing

strength

Family of Disabled (FOD) is a cross-disability organisation, engaged in the service of people with disabilities since 1992.

Read more about the initiative.

F

amily of Disabled (FOD) was established by Dr. Rajinder Johar in 1992. Dr Johar, an occupational therapist with 20 years of experience from King George’s Medical College, Lucknow, became a quadriplegic following an injury to his cervical spine and was rendered bed-ridden for life.

He had two options, either to succumb to the condition and lead a meaningless life or gather all his force and bounce back with vengeance. He opted for the latter

Three factors facilitated his decision: 1) Being bedridden, he had plenty of time to think and plan about rehabilitation of people stuck at the crossroads of various disabilities.

2) His academic and professional knowledge/experience helped him to execute these plans better.

3) Twenty years of working life

According to WHO, 10% of world population has some kind of disability, That amounts to over 10 crore people with disabilities (PWD) in India.

February 2015 | www.spiceroutemag.com

Vision & mission Vision : To help every person with disability to lead a dignified, financially secure and productive life.

Mission: To build and nurture the capacities of people with disabilities through different sustainable interventions for improving their quality of life, making them self–reliant and facilitating their mainstreaming.

His own disability made him determined to pursue the cause of rehabilitation involving physical rehabilitation of innumerable persons with disabilities and five years of his own disabling condition made him determined to continue to pursue the cause of rehabilitation passionately.

Challenges

Being bedridden, it was extremely difficult for him to manage the programmes all by himself. It

was equally difficult to raise funds to meet the expenses of the programmes. Moreover, he was a paramedic without any experience whatsoever of running an NGO. As he could not go out to meet representatives from other organisations, his interactions with the outside world remained limited due to which he remained oblivious even to the legal requirement of getting the trust registered. Hence, although the organisation was founded in 1992, it was registered in 1994. He found himself caught in the vicious loop. No funds – inability to hire people - resulting in slow growth. Gradually, he

Objectives of FOD: ○ To provide an appropriate platform and opportunity to people with disabilities, especially those from weaker socio-economic background, to earn their livelihood and be economically independent. ○ To capacitate persons with disabilities to realise their potential and latent talents and enable them to become productive members of society. ○ To empower them with knowledge and information. ○ To create awareness and sensitise the masses about various aspects of different disabilities.

Dr Johar verifies Max Lerner’s statement"I am neither an optimist nor pessimist, but a possibilist."

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Left: Paintings by the members of FOD

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overcame the challenges with his grit, determination and persistence. His true life story inspired media to cover him in prominent national dailies and magazines, with which support started pouring in.

Support from society

Society has always been very appreciative and supportive of his efforts and endeavours. When he was featured in an episode highlighting disability issues in Season 1 of Satyamev Jayate, people from all over India came forward to contribute to the cause and the organisation. Dr. Johar has been honoured with awards at state as well as national level.

Left: Crowded exhibition hall displaying work of disabled people

Current Scenario

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Dr. Johar continues to serve the disabled fraternity. According to him, “Disability brings with it unacceptability. Life seems to be moving in a de-accelerated motion. To rekindle hope in the lives of persons and families coping with it is like lighting a lamp in the dark.

However, diminishing the darkness is a major challenge."

Several programmes of FOD are a testimony of Dr. Johar’s innovative thinking and unique initiatives to help the disabled people become self-reliant.

The uniqueness of the activities of FOD comes from the fact that they were introduced as per the need to bridge the gap due to their non- existence rather than duplicating efforts of some other organisations. These are: ○ Disbursing Different Gadgetry (1996): Gadgets like tricycles,

Dr. Johar’s innovative thinking and unique initiatives helped many to become self-reliant

financially self-reliant. ○ Excursion and Educational Tours (1999): FOD organises educational tours annually (to historical/heritage sites, museums, parks, prominent places of worship, circus and magic shows) for a group of disabled children and adults. wheelchairs, bicycles, rolaters, crutches, ○ Promoting Art (2001): Promoted walkers, etc., and hearing aids, talking the works of members by organising wrist-watches, telescope are provided national level exhibitions of paintings/ sculptures. to people registered with FOD. ○ Funding Education (2006): ○ Economic Rehabilitation (1998): Education of disabled students, Under Apna Rozgaar Scheme (ARS) poor, unskilled and jobless disabled primarily for girls, is funded by are helped in their socio-economic FOD under its project Gyanpath.

Expenditure on monthly tuition fee, rehabilitation by providing them interest-free soft loans to start, expand, books, stationery and uniform is diversify their enterprises and become borne by the organisation.

Future Plans ○ UNNATI: It's a multi-purpose rehabilitation centre under construction likely to be operational by April 2015, where trainings would be imparted in basic computer skills with classes in spoken English, stitching &

February 2015 | www.spiceroutemag.com

tailoring, basic culinary skills, recycling, etc. ○ Placement In Mainstream Job: FOD has launched a project under which educated and technically skilled disabled people are being helped to procure mainstream jobs.

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discover the soul of india

This month, explore India's ethnic art & culture showcased at vibrant fairs, melodious Sufi festival and more.

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Surajkund International Crafts Fair It is one of the most famous fairs, organised every year in Surajkund, near Delhi, by Haryana Tourism Department to promote handicrafts items. With authentic fragrances & rich rustic flavours, the fair is a wonderful opportunity to accompany the connoisseurs of art & crafts and also taste various Indian cuisines. Get exposed to some great talents involved in paintings, wood stock, textiles, pottery, ivory work, stonework,

terracotta and glass work - all highlighting the vibrant cultural range of their native state.

Several shows, cultural events, dance shows, folk music shows, also take place during the fair to entertain and amuse the large audience. Goa is the theme state for this year's fair.

When: February 1-15 Where: Faridabad, Haryana

plan your trip with SpiceJet that provides a well-connected network. Services are available to cities of delhi, udaipur, jaipur and kolkata.

February 2015 | www.spiceroutemag.com

Maha Shivratri Maha Shivratri is the day when lord Shiva got married to goddess Parvati. People observe all-day fasting and sing hymns and praises in the name of Lord Shiva. Largely celebrated in India as well as in Nepal, woodapple leaves, water and milk are offered to the Shiva Lingam on this day as they are believed to be Lord Shiva's favourite.

When: February 17 Where: All over India

Jaisalmer Desert Festival This exuberant festival is a wonderful opportunity to experience the sandstone city of Jaisalmer and its surroundings at their magical best.

Enjoy a parade of camels and fancily dressed locals, camel races and polo matches, turban tying competitions, and competition for the best mustaches.

The festival kicks off with a morning procession exhibiting the life and culture of the desert. Several competitions and music and dance performances also take place.

When: February 1-3 Where: Jaisalmer, Rajasthan

Sufi Sutra This Sufi music festival features top Sufi and traditional folk musicians from Denmark, Iran, Portugal, Spain, Sweden, Punjab, Rajasthan and West Bengal. Sufi music is qualified as ‘soul music’ and is often used to transcend the physical realm into the spiritual one. There will be music workshops all day and free concerts all evening, as well as an exhibition.

When: February 6-8 Where: Mohar Kunj, Kolkata

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Know your Airport

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umbai’s Chhatrapati Shivaji Airport has two terminals: Terminal 1 or Domestic Terminal earlier known as Santa Cruz Airport and Terminal 2 or International Terminal, which is a brand new terminal, formerly known as the Sahar Airport.

Both terminals share the same runways and air facilities but are 5 km far from one another, and the only option to go from one to the other is by using the free shuttle bus service.

Designed by Skidmore, Owings & Merrill (Chicago-based architects also behind Burj Khalifa, Dubai), Terminal 2 is a true mix of Indian heritage and modernity.

SpiceJet offers flights connecting terminal 2 with dubai, sharjah, delhi, bengaluru, chennai, among others. For details log on to www.spicejet.com February 2015 | www.spiceroutemag.com

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Terminal 2 ○ Terminal 2 (international) is spread over 47 lakh sq ft with a capacity of handling some 40 million passengers. ○ Its four storied mega structure offers 37 travelators, 48 escalators and 72 elevators. It has 188 check-in counters, 60 immigration counters for departing passengers, and 76 immigration counters for incoming fliers. ○ The terminal has a multi-level car parking to accommodate 5,000 vehicles. ○ It has 2,300 CCTV cameras for passenger safety. ○ The all new Terminal-2 is code F compliant.

It means that now it is ready to handle A380type aircraft operations, the world’s biggest commercial aircraft. ○ The X-shaped terminal boasts of a threekm-long art walk which incorporates Indian aesthetics with a white peacock theme. Titled Jaya He, it offers a glimpse into India's rich legacy. It also has an installation on the theme of water by filmmaker Shekhar Kapur and a mural featuring Amitabh Bachchan.

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HTC One m8

Hot metal body, a stunning screen and three cameras!

We are in love.

T

here are loads of reasons to love the HTC M8 but the biggest amongst them is just how insanely hot it is.

The M8 is by far the best looking phone that HTC has ever made – the flawless metal body isn’t flat like the iPhone, but has real curves at just the right places and this is what in reality really floored us about the phone.

If you have it in your hand, people will swoon, they’ll ask you what the phone is, tell them it’s an HTC and they will reply with a ‘hmm’ which is as close a cross between surprise and pleasure as there ever will be. It’s almost as if it is a supermodel born in the family of average lookers.

Swooning apart, the M8 is an improvement over the M7 that it Dimension 146.36 x 70.6 x 9.35 mm

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Weight 160 gms Screen 5 inches OS Android 4.4 kitkat

One of the best looking phones you can lay your hands on

Processor Quadcore Snapdragon 801 at 2.5 GHz RAM 2 GB Storage 16 GB Upgradeable Camera Dual 4 MP/5 MP

replaces – it's bigger, fatter, wider and heavier compared to the previous one – in part because almost 90 per cent of its body is aluminium compared to 70 per cent earlier (it makes phone calls an especially entertaining affair during the winters when you press the cold brushed metal to your ear to make a phone call).

The 5-inch screen boasts of a display which is sharp and crisp with phenomenal colours. The screen is protected by Gorilla Glass that has received a special coating that the company promises will protect it from scratches and impacts.

That said, HTC in other markets also ships with an HTC Advantage warranty which covers free glass replacement within 6 months. While this isn’t available in India, it can also be translated to mean that the glass is far from invincible.

It’s on the inside where the HTC scores over the Nexus or even the iPhone – there is a slot for a 128 GB memory card – this comes on top of the 100 GB Google Drive storage you get free for 2 years. Add this to the 16 GB that the phone ships with, and you have a lot more space than you are ever going to need. Then there’s the trick duo camera that lets you click a picture and focus on the subject later on in the gallery.

With everyone sporting a smartphone, it is getting difficult to stand out among the crowd. brands are coming out with bigger, faster and better models. take a look at the review here.

February 2015 | www.spiceroutemag.com

Interesting reads Farewell, Mahatma

Translated from Tamil by N Kalyan Raman, Devibharathi’s voice seeps through every short story, of pain, philosophy, heartache and rage. The first story tells of Mahatma Gandhi a day before he was assassinated, how he wants his approaching death to be a final message for peace.

Spinning ten stories with thought-provoking themes, Devibharathi’s skill in bringing out the harsh reality is profound.

Author: Devibharathi Publication: Harper Perennial Price: Rs 299

Madras, Chennai and the Self

Flavours of Avadh: Journey from the Royal Banquet to the Corner Kitchen

The book talks about best of Awadhi cuisines in a very interesting manner. It details out the unique regional food history, interesting anecdotes, sophistication and etiquette associated with the food.

The book also presents some mouth watering recipes along with the creative passion surrounding the cuisine of this region.

Author: Salma Hussain Publication: Niyogi Books Price: Rs 596/-

Talespin

The book is a collection of author’s columns written over several years in Jordan Times. Her vivid encounters with Nelson Mandela and Pope Francis, her experiments in kitchen, her pregnancy period, all reflect her personality and provide a swift narrative. The columns are thought provoking and humourous reflection on everyday life.

Author: Nickunj Malik Publication: Ocean Books Pvt Ltd Price: Rs 450

A dancer and writer, Tulsi Badrinath talks about the city of Madras, Chennai and the various layers in between. A compilation of 12 interviews of people from all walks of life, Tulsi has brought out the essence of the city and place in which they exist. From interviewing a top Tamil actor, Vikram to an entrepreneur turned politician’s rags to riches story, every element, every story and every person mentioned has been selected with careful thought and purpose.

Author: Tulsi Badrinath Publication: Pan Macmillan India Price: Rs 300

The Wedding Season

The book revolves around an unmarried Sri Lankan girl whose mother desperately wants her to get married. It presents a wonderful blend of both traditional and modern beliefs. At some places the narration seems to be larger than life and reflects the materialistic tone. Full of comic and tragic phases, the book offers an interesting read.

Author: Su Dharmapala Publication: Simon & Schuster Australia Price: on request

wEBSITES TO BUY BOOKS

Homeshop18, Indiabookstore, infibeam, snapdeal, Flipkart, Amazon, crossword, etc.

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w rld Cup In A Jiffy

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As the Cricket World Cup knocks from round the corner, we bring to you the most essential cricket stories from across the world and time.

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W O R D S | S iddh a rth M J oshi

id you know that the first three world cups were played in England, and it was only from 1987 that other countries began to share the hosting? Cricket is the most beloved sport in India, and the phrase ‘World Cup’ in all its solidarity spells, almost exclusively, as ‘cricket’, in the subcontinent. Soon you are going to be setting your alarm clocks to wake yourself up in time for the matches to start in Australia. Till that happens, refresh your memory with some interesting facts about the WC and warm yourself up for the real game.

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1975

This was the first International World Cup hosted in England, with a participation of eight teams including India and Pakistan. South Africa was excluded because of a ban from international cricket due to apartheid.

The Verdict: West Indies beats Australia

1979

An ICC Trophy competition was introduced for selecting the non-Test playing teams. Sri Lanka and Canada qualified to play as winner and runner up, respectively. The colour code remained the same as in test-cricket, red for ball and white for the uniform.

The Verdict: West Indies beats England

February 2015 | www.spiceroutemag.com

1983

India emerged as an underdog by beating the favourite West Indies and claiming the World Cup under the captaincy of Kapil Dev. The ‘Man of the Series’ award was not presented in 1983.

The Verdict: India beats West Indies

1987

The number of overs, bowled per innings, was reduced to 50 from 60. The series was hosted jointly by India and Pakistan, a first outside England. The final match was won by the closest margin in the World Cup final history, just 7 runs.

The Verdict: Australia beats England

1999

1992

Day and night matches were introduced for the first time in the jointly hosted WC at Australia and New Zealand. Other changes were, introduction of white ball and coloured uniforms. This was South Africa’s first WC following the fall of the apartheid regime.

The Verdict: Pakistan beats England

1996

This was hosted in the Indian subcontinent with matches played in India, Pakistan and Sri Lanka.

Sri Lanka was declared a default winner in the semi finals at Eden Garden following the crowd unrest in protest against India’s poor performance.

The Verdict: Sri Lanka beats Australia

Bangladesh and Scotland made their WC debut by qualifying through ICC Trophy. It was hosted

by England but few matches were also played at Scotland, Ireland, Wales and the Netherlands. India and Pakistan were officially at war (Kargil) during their match.

The Verdict: Australia beats Pakistan

2003

This was the first WC to be played in Africa, jointly hosted

by South Africa, Zimbabwe and Kenya. A mascot, Dazzler the zebra, was introduced for the first time in a cricket WC. Shohaib Akhtar bowled cricket’s first 100mph delivery against England’s Nick Knight.

The Verdict: Australia beats India

2007

This was the first time that a WC was hosted in the Caribbean (West Indies). Australia won its third consecutive WC title and the fourth overall, securing its place as the world champion. Pakistan’s coach Bob Woolmer was found dead in his hotel room one day after the team failed to make it past group stage.

The Verdict: Australia beats Sri Lanka

2011

The game’s hosting originally scheduled for Pakistan was redistributed to India, Sri Lanka and Bangladesh, following a terrorist attack on the Sri Lankan cricket team. India became the first country to win a WC final on home soil. Yuvraj Singh was named the ‘Man of the Tournament’.

The Verdict: India beats Sri Lanka

2015

The eagerly awaited WC will take place from February 14 to March 29, 2015, in Australia and New Zealand.

Sachin Tendulkar has been named the 2015 Cricket World Cup Ambassador.

Temperatures are bound to soar, as India is the defending champion.

The Verdict: To be declared in March

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former Indian cricketer, Sachin Tendulkar has a massive fan-following and often worshipped in India as a demi-god. A player who took up the sport at the age of 11, he is deemed as one of the greatest batsmen of all time. He has represented India in matches for almost 24 years.

24

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things about

sachin’s Book

It’s not all Chappell bashing, there are a lot of interesting tidbits about Sachin’s career in his new book. Here are a few...

W ords | s u dh a k a r jh a

In 2002, Wisden Cricketers’ Almanack ranked him the second greatest Test batsman of all time, behind Don Bradman, and the second greatest ODI batsman of all time, behind Viv Richards.

His autobiography, Playing It My Way, was launched on November 5, 2014. The ‘Master Blaster’ says, “I knew that if I agreed to write my story, I would have to be completely honest as that’s the way I have always played the game and that would mean talking about a number of things I have not addressed in public before. So here I am, at the end of my final innings, having taken that last walk back to the pavilion, ready to recount as many incidents as I can remember since first picking up a cricket bat as a child in Mumbai, 35 years ago.”

Music calmed him before the 2011 World Cup semi-final vs Pakistan. He listened to Bade Achhe Lagte Hain on his iPod for seven hours before the match in Mohali, which he describes as “one of the most pressurised games of my career”. If you are having a tough day, you might want to try this too.

Before he gained popularity, Sachin used to take four buses to reach the cricket grounds for practice. As Mumbai buses are characteristically crowded, especially during peak hours, the bus conductors would try and charge him for two tickets, one for him and the other for his kit bag.

February 2015 | www.spiceroutemag.com

Sachin’s brother enrolled him in Ramakant Achrekar’s cricket summer camp to keep him out of mischief and getting into trouble in the locality!

02 Imitating legends

The Little Master used to imitate John McEnroe at the tennis court.

03 Score-fixer

Sachin got the scorekeeper to ‘fix’ his score from 24 to 30 in his debut school match to get his name in papers the next day.

04 master planner His wife Anjali first came to his house posing as a journalist!

05 disagreement Sachin was not a great admirer of Kapil Dev’s coaching methods.

06 Too young

Sachin wasn’t selected for Mumbai team initially because at 15 years of age, he was too young to play Ranji Trophy.

07 Sleepwalker

Sachin used to walk in his sleep and would shadowpractice at 2 in the morning!

08 Room partners

The Master and Sourav Ganguly were room partners in the MRF pace academy during the early days of their careers.

09 bad temper

Usually a cool customer, Sachin once lost his temper in a team meeting and scolded them for poor performance in 1999.

10 Humiliated

Sachin was removed from captaincy without any notice by the BCCI in 2000.

11 dual citizens

Sachin’s kids are eligible to play for the England cricket team as their maternal grandmother is English.

12 memorial

Sachin named his girl child Sara in memory of winning the Sahara Cup in 1997.

be his replacement in 2000.

Rest as they say is history!

15 superstitious wife

Sachin’s wife Anjali would never eat or drink when the Master was batting!

16 Foodie

debut series in Pakistan, which his brother Ajit had kept hidden all along.

18 superstitious

Sachin did not use a bat sticker till 1996 World Cup to avoid distractions.

Superstition at its best!

During the tour of Australia in 2004, Sachin went to the same restaurant three times in a row and ordered the same dish to maintain his good run in the field.

19 permission seeker

17 brotherly love

20 bad thoughts

After his retirement, Sachin was given the first bat and helmet he had used in the

Ever since the ban on him for the alleged ball tampering in 2001, Sachin would take permission from the umpires before cleaning the ball!

Sachin had almost quit cricket when India was kicked out in the first round of the 2007 World Cup.

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13 identical figures Sachin’s first bowling figures in both Tests and ODIs are identical : 1-0-10-0.

14 great

replacement

When Sachin gave up captaincy, he recommended the young and dynamic Sourav Ganguly to

21 true national

Sachin always carried the national flag in his kit bag.

22 hard practice

Sachin used to practice with wet rubber balls to see the marks on his bat to know if he had middled the ball.

23 language laureate When batting together, Sachin and Rahul Dravid would chat in Marathi.

24 concentration

During the 2011 World Cup, the Master Blaster practised in the nets with his eyes closed for better concentration.

Courtesy: FHM magazine

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Forecast for February 2015 B y D r . P rem K u m a r S h a rm a

Aries

Taurus

Good Luck Tip: Combine the colours red, yellow, white, black and green in your office area to establish balance and improve your earning ability.

Good Luck Tip: Hang a mirror above your desk to see the reflection of the entrance to the work area.

Stars indicate that your social status and reputation will sky rocket by helping a family member. There is a chance of celebration owing to a positive feedback from a client. You will be involved in extensive travel within the city. You are likely to shift your residence.

It’s high time for you to change something new either in your academic or professional front.

Investigate carefully a person who was very helpful earlier as he might behave different. Keep yourself strong during hard times at home. People in search of suitable accommodation are likely to get one.

Gemini

Cancer

Good Luck Tip: Carry a small crystal in your purse with you daily to multiply your finances.

Good Luck Tip: Place a quartz crystal on your computer or beside the phone. These crystals can open lines of communication for you.

Libra

Scorpio

The problems which are worrying you on the professional front are set to diminish. You will start a new business and this would fetch you good returns. Your relation with your lover should be handled cautiously. Some people may discover a new picnic spot. Stars indicate that you may perform well in the property market.

In the professional front you may find yourself in a bargaining position.

You will experience a peaceful atmosphere at home and all the members will live in unity and happiness. Financial conditions would remain stable and you will find yourself in good control of your finances.

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M

Leo 118

Your personal relationships will strengthen as you engage in a goodwill mission.

Some professionals can expect exceptional earning this month.

You shall get an opportunity to meet your childhood friend.

You will find solace in life with a romantic relationship. Some people may strike an opportunity to travel abroad.

Virgo

Some have a better prospect of inheriting the ancestral property. Your ideas in the work front would be well-regarded and converted into action. People involved in business will reap good returns due to strategic planning. The health innovations will stimulate you to remain fit all the time.

Someone may find you ideal to disclose some facts.

You have to be careful at your work front. You will experience some progress in your monetary conditions. You may request your lover not to mingle with your rivals. You will decide on missing out a function which is being organised out of town.

You may take your lover out for a date.

An unexpected guest may turn your house into an entertainment hub.

Your financial planning will help you work out modalities for payment of an item which you have recently purchased. You will be motivated to accompany someone on a journey.

Good Luck Tip: Place a piece of amethyst on your desk. It will help you cope with stress.

Good Luck Tip: Place a small black stone – such as onyx, tourmaline or obsidian in your work area. These aid in ‘holding down’ the money and keep it from slipping away too quickly.

Sagittarius

Capricorn

Aquarius

Pisces

Good Luck Tip: Place a vase of yellow flowers in the kitchen, as they symbolise blossoming and fulfillment in the life cycle and encourage prosperity.

Good Luck Tip: Illuminate dark corners in your work area. It will generate positive energy and produce more wealth.

Good Luck Tip: Hang a small, faceted crystal ball or set a piece of clear quartz crystal at a kitchen window; it boosts the money generating potential.

Good Luck Tip: Balance all five elements in your kitchen as this improves metabolism and encourages prosperity.

Good Luck Tip: Put an egg shaped object in your office. This helps you attract new business or money making opportunities.

You will be helped by someone in travelling to a distant destination. A small reset carried out at the house would bring in positive change. There will be a small duration of separation from your lover. Be ready to accept any change at the work front. Be cautious in your financial management.

February 2015 | www.spiceroutemag.com

Someone who loves your company may bear all your travel expenses just to ensure that you are part of the journey. You may face paucity of time and it may keep you away from some urgent domestic works. This month will bring lots of luck financially for people in the field of engineering, medical and related fields.

You will be able to amass sufficient funds for undertaking a venture which you have in your mind.

A youngster from the family travelling abroad or out of city will manage well. By just being a beaver on the romantic front nothing can be achieved. You are required to follow the right approach.

Good Luck Tip: Place some red and yellow flowers mixed in a bowl on the right hand side of your work desk. It stimulates the financial growth.

Be courageous to face all your hurdles at the professional front. You will strive to prove a point of yours on the social front. You will be required to take help from outside agency to settle a property issue. You will receive good returns from earlier investments and property.

Take proper care of your health during climate changing time.

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Films releasing in February

Bollywood Shamitabh

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Release Date: February 6, 2015 Cast: Amitabh Bachchan, Dhanush, Akshara Haasan, Mahesh Bhatt, Vandita Shrivastava Director: R Balki

The upcoming Hindi film, Shamitabh, has been creating quite a stir in India. Even the title of the film seems to be an amalgamation of the leading protagonists, Amitabh and Dhanush.

A plot that traces the rise of a film buff who tastes cinematic success, the film is based on two individuals who come together for a certain purpose, but later they drift apart due to their respective egos. It focusses on life, relationships and queries that keep coming up in everyone’s minds. This film also marks the debut of Kamal Haasan’s second daughter, Akshara.

Viewers can also keep a lookout for a number of cameo appearances by Rohit Shetty, Karan Johar, Mahesh Bhatt, Anurag Basu, Javed Akhtar and Boney Kapoor among others.

Other Releases

Roy Release Date: February 13, 2015 Cast: Ranbir Kapoor, Jacqueline Fernandez, Arjun Rampal, Anupam Kher, Rajit Kapoor Director: Vikramjit Singh Badlapur Release Date: February 20, 2015 Cast: Varun Dhawan, Huma Qureshi, Yaami Gautam, Nawazuddin Siddiqui, Divya Dutta Director: Sriram Raghavan Guddu Rangeela Release Date: February 27, 2015 Cast: Arshad Warsi, Amit Sadh, Aditi Rao Hydari Director: Subhash Kapoor Information has been sourced from Bollywood Hungama site

top 10 movie ticket booking websites 1. BookMyShow 2. Inox Movies 3. Ticketnew 4. TicketPlease 5. PVR Cinemas

February 2015 | www.spiceroutemag.com

6. Big Cinemas 7. Cinemax 8. EasyMovies 9. Ticket4U 10. Kyazoonga

Films releasing in February

Hollywood Fifty Shades of Grey

Release Date: February 13, 2015 Cast: Dakota Johnson, Jamie Dornan, Eloise Mumford, Luke Grimes, Rita Ora Director: Sam Taylor-Johnson

Based on EL James’ exceptionally popular novels, the movie is expected to create quite a stir. Dakota Johnson stars as Anastasia Steele, a literature student about to graduate, who goes to interview the wealthy and mysterious Christian Grey, a handsome, brilliant and intimidating person. Pitching Anastasia’s naivety and innocence against Christian’s starkly independent and elusive manners, they slowly start to develop a relationship.

As they get closer, Anastasia starts to discover Grey's innermost secrets and explores her own boundaries, testing her limits, sometimes even surprising herself.

Date: February 6, 2015 Cast: Jason Statham, Stanley Tucci, Sofía Vergara, Milo Ventimiglia, Michael Angarano, Anne Heche Director: Simon West

Other Releases

Jupiter Ascending Release Date: February 6, 2015 Cast: Channing Tatum, Mila Kunis, Eddie Redmayne, Douglas Booth, Sean Bean Director: The Wachowskis

Kingsman: The Secret Service Release Date: February 13, 2015 Cast: Colin Firth, Samuel L. Jackson, Mark Strong, Taron Egerton, Michael Caine Director: Matthew Vaughn Focus Release Date: February 27, 2015 Cast: Will Smith, Margot Robbie, Rodrigo Santoro Director: Glenn Ficarra, John Requa

Wild Card

A Hollywood biggie, Jason Statham comes back in another crime drama, Wild Card. The film is based on the 1985 novel Heat, and an adaptation of the 1986 film, also titled Heat.

Also starring the versatile Stanley Tucci, Sofia Vergara and Anne Heche, the film traces the story of a recovering gambler in Las Vegas who takes up different odd jobs to support himself.

www.bollymoviereviewz.com/2013/05/ upcoming-hollywood-movies-2013-release.html

top 10 websites to watch movies 1. YouTube movies 2. IMDb 3. Crackle 4. Los Movies 5. Topmovies

6. FreeFullMovies 7. Film.FM 8. B Movies 9. JustClickToWatch 10. Hulu Tv

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HOT Picks Splurge on these lifestyle essentials Age defying cream

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Add a dash of colour to your home with these cute cushions. Cushions can add that extra chutzpah to your bed, or sofa, giving your home a welcoming and comfy aura.

Use contrasting colours, a grey cushion paired with red or a lighter colour of bedspread or vice versa.

Price: `300 - 1,200 Available at: www. fashionandyou.com

Chic Italian style

The new Valentine’s collection at Vineet’s Sarees offer an elegant and demure look. The georgette sarees paired with lace and satin offer the right fall and add grace. A gorgeous option for any party, step up the heat with these draped garments.

Price: `10,000 onwards Available at: L-113, Lajpat Nagar-II & 112, Karol Bagh, New Delhi

Delve in Corneliani’s collection for men moulded from high quality materials and attention to detail. Look dapper in stylish ties, tie bars or cufflinks for the ultra fashionable man or the neat & sharp belts and shoes.

Price: On request Available at: Delhi - DLF Emporio, Vasant Kunj, Mumbai - The Taj Mahal Palace & Tower, Apollo Bunder, Bengaluru - UB City Mall, Vittal Mallya Road

Fashionable, yet functional

Utilising simplicity, elegance in design, effectiveness in use and adding fun to functionality, Baroque presents a collection for professionals who travel. You can find briefcases, weekend bags, gym bags, laptop bags, and much more.

Price: `5,000 onwards Available at: www.baroque.in

February 2015 | www.spiceroutemag.com

Pop of colour

Bottega Di LungaVita’s new products from their Vita-Age Aurum line will leave your skin radiant and flawless.

Acqua Micellare is a solution which cleans & removes makeup in one step, with moisturising & purifying action.

Price: `1,350 Available at: Shop No.M-14, M Block market GK-I, New Delhi or www.bottegadilungavita.in

Silken beauty

canvas hue

The all-new Micromax Canvas Hue presents an AMOLED HD display with Corning Gorilla Glass 3 and a super power saving mode. The specs include 1 GB RAM, 8 GB ROM and with expandable memory of up to 32 GB. The dual SIM phone currently runs on Android KitKat 4.4.2 and will be upgraded to Android Lollipop 5.0 through FOTA soon.

Price: `10,999 Available at: Leading online and offline stores

potpourri

Amour Collection

Rena Love, the high fashion label, offers a number of options to choose from styles to colours for dressing up during this Valentine. A sensuous red top or a shirt paired with black denims to an aztec wrap dress or that scarlet red gown to softer hues like peaches and beiges.

The garments are designed phenomenally fashionable with a high wearability and practicality quotient.

Price: `2,800 Available at: Main Defence Colony Market, DLF Promenade & Vasant Kunj, Delhi

The Valentine Collection

Trendy Divva launches an array of evening gowns and dresses perfect for those special moments. The collection revolves around luxurious ethnicity with raw silks, lace, rich and fully covered sequins and embellishments. The exciting range of feminine fabrics is in red, pink, black and blue.

Price: On request Available at: www. trendydivva.com

Stylish Eyewear

Sophisticated details, innate elegance and modern linearity are the creative and stylistic elements that characterise the new Salvatore Ferragamo eyewear spring/summer 2015 collection. Having elegant and sophisticated shapes, the models are characterised by their style.

Price: On request Available at: Exclusive stores in India

Multipurpose speakers

Mitashi’s range of speakers come with valuable features like Bluetooth Connectivity, Long Battery Life, USB & Card Reader, FM Radio and easy portability. It has 4 edgy speaker models – each engineered to bring you the perfect sound and designed to blend into every environment.

Price: `3,490 Available at: Leading electronics stores as well as e-commerce portals

ENGLISH SMARTPHONE

Luxury mobile phone manufacturer, Vertu, launches its new, English smartphone model – Aster. It can also be personalised with a monogram or engraving. A single 117 carat, 5.1” piece of 5th generation solid sapphire crystal protects Vertu Aster’s 4.7” HD display and 13MP camera lens from scratches.

Price: `4,75,000 Available at: Around 500 stores, including 70 Vertu Boutiques in 66 countries

PARTY GLOW FACIAL KIT Glam up your skin for this party season with TBC by Nature and enjoy the free Papaya Face Wash with it.

This facial not only restores the natural pH balance of your skin, but also clears the pores and deep cleans to prevent the formation of blackheads.

Price: 55gm @ `200 Available at: All retail outlets

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For girls on the go

Amazingly comfortable, the Stretch Sole collection features innovative Crocs Fit2U TechnologyTM that fits, stretches, flexes and twists to your feet.

The latest collection showcases loafers and flats to fit your lifestyle.

Price: `5,295 Available at: Select cities and in select Crocs exclusive stores only.ﾧ

Shine On collection

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Ayesha accessories designs and launches its signature collection featuring shiny earrings and metallic statement neckpieces. Bold accessories, especially in oversized shoulder duster earrings and glittery ear hoops in different metallic colours bring life back into the world.

Price: `398-1598 Available at: All Ayesha stores across India

Valentine Donuts festival

Mad Over Donuts, a leading donut store in India, will be introducing their 'Valentine festival' this month. It will include two 'Heart shaped donuts' - Hot Pink Love donut, Pretty in Pink donut and Chocolate Heart donut.

Price: `59 each Availability: At exclusive stores

February 2015 | www.spiceroutemag.com

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Stylish home accessories

Home decor brand Vrieti brings you an exclusive collection of quality home décor pieces that include mirrors, artificial flowers, vases, figurines, artworks, paintings, glassware, candle stands and recliners that are reflective of the latest trends worldwide.

Price: on request Available at: www.vrieti.com

Valentine Shirts Collection

16 Stitches, a bespoke shirt brand, introduces its Valentine collection in supreme combinations of colours, textures and weaves.

The collection encapsulates debonair shirts in shades of red, pink, blue, grey, white and turquoise. Stripes & Checks dominate the collection and bring a touch of classic dressing to the contemporary colour palette.

Price: `1,700 onwards Available at: www.16stitches. com

STYLE SAVVY STORAGE

India’s leading commercial refrigeration company launched its EWG Bottle Wine Cooler Series. Elanpro’s new range features quality storage and elegant presentation for red and white wine enthusiasts. Elanpro EWG bottle wine cooler range has technology and design innovation available in three sizes EWG - 50 D ( 46 bottles); EWG - 120 D (110 bottles) and EWG - 180 D (166 bottles).

Price: `47,000 onwards Available at: Visit www. elanpro.net

potpourri

Beat winter blues

Columbia Sportswear brings its winter collection of Element Blocker Interchange Jacket with Omni-Heat technology in India. This technology keeps the body warm while allowing excess heat and moisture to escape. This makes it perfect for almost any outdoor activity in winters.

Price: `11,999 onwards Available at: Exclusive stores in Select Citywalk, Khan Market and Satya Niketan in New Delhi and Phoenix Market City in Bengaluru

Red hot arm candy

Grab eyeballs with Hidesign’s collection of tribal inspired snake emboss shoulder bag with its spacious compartments that can carry all your essentials. The glamourous bags with contrast handles are great to carry. The ultra luxurious bags and totes, with handles in contrasting colours make it a brilliant option for both day and night use. Party hard with these blazing red accessories by your side.

Price: `4,500 onwards Available at: Exclusive Hidesign stores across India

Bejewelled accessories

This season of love, go the extra mile by gifting your loved one glittering accesssories from Hema S Kothari. Be it stylish earpieces or rings studded with diamonds, ruby and emeralds, crafted from yellow or white gold, there is a wide range of options to choose from.

Price: On request Availability: www.hsk.in

Tell time, with love

Commemorating the special day of love, Guess launches select timepieces with an assortment of white, blue and rose gold watches.

The Love Potion collection offers a white leather strap blended in two variants of rose gold and blue dials.

Serendipity offers a classic rose gold metal strap and dial that brings a warm glow to the wrist.

Price: `7,900 onwards Available at: GUESS Accessories stores, GUESS Jeans stores, Shoppers Stop, Lifestyle and all leading multi brand watch retailers.

Step out in style

Vans Surf rolls out its latest offering in women's collection with the Tazie.

This collection represents cool and functional footwear. The Tazie is a relaxed Classic Fit lace-up, featuring a batik-inspired, washable canvas upper.

It has the ease of a slipon with added lace-up detailing and an elevated heel.

Price: `2,999 Available at: Vans stores in Bengaluru, Chandigarh, Delhi, Jaipur and Mumbai.

Relax & rejuvenate

Gift hampers are increasingly convenient and handy so gift a smile with Soulflower & Tattva hampers. A mix of bath salts, potpourri, scented soaps and essential oils, pamper yourself this month.

Price: `800 onwards Availability: www.giftease. com

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spotlight

Classic British fashion dazzles India

R

ecently, Temperley London, a British fashion brand by fashion designer Alice Temperley, launched its Spring Summer 2015 collection in Delhi, brought to India

by Kitsch, a multi-brand concept store. The event was held at The Blue Bar in Taj Palace, which also celebrated its sixth anniversary.

The new collection focusses on daywear, while embracing a whole new attitude. Light pastel shades, hues of pink, and layering, the collection was like a breath of fresh air.

Launched in 2000, the brand is known for its feminity and timeless designs with

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an individual ethereal signature of effortless luxury. Amongst others, the brand’s fanbase includes Catherine Duchess of Cambridge, Florence Welch, Penélope Cruz and Jennifer Lopez.

Charu Sachdev, Director, Kitsch said, “What I love about the collection is the impeccable details, specially, the tailoring.

For a strong look, the suits are perfectly paired with signature Temperley crisp cotton shirts that showcase a fresh silhouette. This look is perfect for today’s dynamic woman, who essays different roles at the same time.”

The event saw elite personalities from across the city gather to relish a splendid evening of glamour.

An impetus for small scale industries at Boisar

M

aharashtra is an industrial hub and there are various kinds of industries operational here. Mumbai being an overly populated city, lacks in space to put up any industrial unit. Arun Kumar Muchhala, founder and chairman of Arun Muchhala Group, opened an industrial park in Boisar. This conglomerate is known in the field of planning constructuction and developments.

Saibaba Industrial Park is spread across 45 acres of land, with world class infrastructure and 20 m wide roads, and can provide ample space to small scale industries. That is why they decided on going away from the city and creating this industrial park where they can provide ample space to small scale industries, yet be close to India’s financial hub where there is a huge demand for an industrial park. Each unit here is self-sufficient with power and water supply and is an independent unit.

From Mumbai international airport, the park is at a distance of 100 km, and 1.5 hours away from the city. It has railway connectivity from Churchgate to Dhanu and is 9 km away from NH8, positioning it in a strategic location.

All types of dry industries are suitable for the industrial park like - steel, iron, jewelry, pharmaceuticals, textile, cold storage, manufacturing plants, warehousing, etc.

February 2015 | www.spiceroutemag.com

spotlight

A Soulful Soiree

I

n an exclusive preview of what India Art Fair has in store, The Taj Mahal Hotel along with Art Alive Gallery, presented an exclusive art preview to showcase select works of Padma Shree awardee Paresh Maity.

The special collection titled ‘Yatra’ is an ongoing series of travel, people’s relationship, essence of life and colours of India, which have been captured beautifully in five artworks. The evening saw the presence of prominent personalities from across various fields including Shakti Burman, Anjolie Ela, Uma Nair, Shivani Wazir, Suhel Seth, Ustad Amjad Ali Khan, and Dilip Cherian amongst the many others.

Talking about the collection Paresh Maity said, “My show ‘Yatra’ hosted by The Taj Mahal Hotel, New Delhi and Art Alive Gallery is a tribute to celebration of life filled with colours, energy, music and passion.”

which cover is in your hands? this issue, we have designed 4 different covers and decided to feature all of them.

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1 The inflighT magazine

Volume IX | Issue II | February 2015

32 62 70

Hyderabad deligHt

The inflighT magazine

experience the royal grandeur of the nizams

Sweet CelebrationS This V-Day, indulge in unique chocolate concoctions

ClaSSiC timepieCeS Reinventing the forgotten past in all its glory

www.spiceroutemag.com

Volume IX | Issue II | February 2015

Volume IX | Issue II | February 2015

www.spiceroutemag.com

Hyderabad deligHt experience the royal grandeur of the nizams

Sweet CelebrationS This V-Day, indulge in unique chocolate concoctions

ClaSSiC timepieCeS Reinventing the forgotten past in all its glory

www.spiceroutemag.com

4

3 The inflighT magazine

32 62 70

32 62 70

Hyderabad deligHt

The inflighT magazine

experience the royal grandeur of the nizams

Sweet CelebrationS This V-Day, indulge in unique chocolate concoctions

ClaSSiC timepieCeS Reinventing the forgotten past in all its glory Volume IX | Issue II | February 2015

32 62 70

Hyderabad deligHt experience the royal grandeur of the nizams

Sweet CelebrationS This V-Day, indulge in unique chocolate concoctions

ClaSSiC timepieCeS Reinventing the forgotten past in all its glory

www.spiceroutemag.com

which one’s your favourite? tweet using #spicejetcoverphoto to @flyspicejet

summer schedule 2015 now fly with • improved metro connectivity • best day return options • enhanced non-metro connections • better timings book for travel till 24th oct. 2015 on spicejet.com and get great fares.

inside SpiceJEt

a day in

the life

This month we decided to shadow Seema Yadav, Manager-Training, IFSD at SpiceJet academy in Delhi.

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2 1 1. S eema reads the newspaper while having tea in the morning and prepares breakfast for her son and herself, simultaneously.

2. She packs her son's bag.

3. Post all kitchen chores, she wakes her son up for school.

4. S eema readies her son for his playschool.

5. It's now Seema's turn to gear up for work.

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4 February 2015 | www.spiceroutemag.com

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6. Packed and ready, both mother and son leave home for the day.

7. W hen her husband is out of station for work, Seema takes the added responsibility of dropping her son at the playschool.

8. Once at work, Seema checks her mails and prepares her agenda for the day.

9. A s the day proceeds, Seema conducts a meeting with her team members and instructors who teach the students at SpiceJet academy.

10. Regular audits of various documentation files are also a part of her responsibilties.

9

11. Seema and her team take a quick lunch break.

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inside SpiceJEt

12 13

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15

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12. Seema and her colleague discuss the attendance roster and the various classes yet to be held.

13. During a demonstration session, she explains the safety procedures related to a life vest.

14. A quick tea break with team members.

15. A t the graduation ceremony of the 148 celebrates with her students.

th

batch, Seema

16. Instilling SpiceJet's motto 'with all their heart' in every student.

17. Once home, Seema spends time with her son, giving him her undivided attention.

February 2015 | www.spiceroutemag.com

17

FlySpiceJet May you fly always, and I will be happy if my next upcoming trip will be with you guys.

This was my first flight experience and it was awesome. Thanks to SpiceJet. Can’t wait to fly again with you. :) @gsu303 Travelled by SpiceJet on the DelhiGoa-Delhi route. The journey was great and hassle-free. I will always fly with SpiceJet! @sabya_fms Had the most pleasant flying experience today in SG 529 from Guwahati to Kolkata. Love you SpiceJet! @chandruaps It was really an amazing experience to go around the country at an incredibly low priced ticket. Thanks SpiceJet.

Samiksha Choudhary

Wishing every member of SpiceJet a Happy New Year! We are all praying for SpiceJet's prosperity. May God bless you all.

Aashis Modak

With new life.... keep flying.

Best of luck for 2015!

Sandhya Dubey On time Sir! Abhi Smart Wishing you a safe take off this year.

Sam Enjoying In love with the weekend outfit.

Comfortable, yet fashionable.

Harmeet Yadav I support you with all my heart.

Love you guys!

Sheetal Singh

My best wishes with you SpiceJet. You are my favourite airline and I am proud of you.

Hope you will recuperate soon.

Convival Smit Hope you overcome all obstacles and keep flying with more spice.

Manoj Warrier Have a great future ahead, SpiceJet. We all wish that!

Monika Lucky Tyagi On time performance and caring service. You guys rock.

Amit Patnaik

@NimbleSpeak Had a pleasant and comfortable trip from Pune to Bengaluru via SG 227! Thanks SpiceJet! @umar_shaikh I'm really liking the weekend dress of the cabin crew! It’s colourful, comfortable and unique. Great going SpiceJet! @bellanair

Travelled with SpiceJet from Mumbai to Delhi (SG114). What a wonderful flight experience. Thank you #Withallourheart! @iamKapoorishabh Had a pleasant SpiceJet flight in SG 529 from Guwahati to Kolkata.

Love you SpiceJet. @chandruaps

@flyspicejet

SpiceJet staff was far more courteous than others on the 1st of January! Hope 2015 is better for you. @rohitroy500 Even during testing times, excellent and heartwarming service by your staff, especially by Bhavna from Mumbai to Trivandrum. @13Harmeet

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inside SpiceJEt

New 360o

group booking tool Experience the joy of travelling in a group with SpiceJet’s new group booking tool that offers end-to-end solutions.

S

piceJet is the first airline in India to introduce an online tool that provides an automated end-to-end solution for group travellers.

Individuals and corporates who wish to travel in groups, and even travel agents who deal in group bookings, can register with SpiceJet’s Group Traveller. From requesting for quotes to managing dashboards, it is a DIY (do-it-yourself) tool from SpiceJet. The experience of travelling in a group is one-of-a-kind, and it is true when they say - the more, the merrier.

For easy booking, follow the steps below: 138

1. Registration process: Once you enter your agency details, submit the form. An email is sent to the registered email id for validation. Once this is done, the airline staff will get in touch regarding further verification. Post this, the email logins will be provided.

2. Adhoc group request: Enter the various details of your trip, such as one-way, round trip or multi-city, details of departure, baggage and meal preference, and select your flight. Mention the number of passengers. The airline will revert regarding various flight possibilities, and you can click on them for more details.

3. Update names: Once you reach the payment confirmation page, click on the ‘submit passenger’ button. Select the request for which you would like to make the payment. Once you have reviewed your option, upload passenger information, or add them manually.

4. Print e-ticket: Click on ‘Get Booking’ menu and choose the specific request for which you want an e-ticket. Click on print.

You can even resize the group by clicking on the ‘Request’ button and ‘Request Group Resize’ submenu.

Once all the details are added, the airline will get in touch.

Benefits:

Get prompt response to all your group queries.

End to End automation: From requesting for quotes to entering passengers' names, you can now do everything by yourself.

Dashboard: View and manage all your group bookings.

Easy usage (Short & Crisp booking flow) Accepts all forms of payment – CC/DC/IB.

from requesting for quotes to managing dashboards, It is a do-it-yourself tool giving you the freedom to book according to your convenience.

February 2015 | www.spiceroutemag.com

booking now easy

for sme travellers

SpiceJet offers innovative travel solutions for the 'SME Traveller’. Read on for a step-by-step insight into the process.

Step by step guide to booking SME tool: Step 1

Step 3

SMEs who wish to register with SpiceJet must first log on to spiceJet.com, click on SME Traveller and register.

You are ready to book on SME Traveller. Login with your account information with the Login ID and password, and take advantage of the benefits under this programme.

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Step 2

On completing the registration formalities, an email with login ID and password will be sent to the registered email id. With these, registered SMEs can start booking tickets through SME Traveller. SMEs can either nominate and preregister employees by uploading employee profiles or get them registered as a part of the booking process.

programme benefits •

Upto 10% discount for SMEs

• •

Complimentary web check-in Flexibility in rescheduling and cancellations The points to be redeemed will get converted into usable cash post travel. These points can then be used for the next travel for the same pax and be adjusted against the base fare only.

•

spicejet offers its new 'sme traveller' solution to firms with up-to 50 travelling passenger strength

inside SpiceJEt

STARS OF SpiceJet Airport Services

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Amit Sharma, Dharamshala Base Customer feedback: On our journey from Delhi to Singapore, the connecting flight was delayed due to fog. I would like to thank Amit at Kangra Airport, who helped us a lot.

Our family is immensely grateful to him.

Internal feedback: Amit is excellent in customer service and a great team player. He goes out of the way to help fliers in need.

Experience with SpiceJet: I have loved each day spent here. I am grateful for the opportunity to be a ‘SpiceJetter’.

Aparna, Delhi Base Internal feedback: Aparna is a soft spoken and well groomed staff member, who handles check-in counters with ease.

She carries a pleasant personality and receives passengers with a beaming smile.

Experience with SpiceJet: When I joined SpiceJet, I had not imagined that this company would give me the opportunity to help passengers in their time of need. I am also learning to connect effectively with different kinds of people, solving their queries, giving them solutions and bringing a small measure of joy to them.

Sarwjeet Singh, Dehradun Base Customer feedback: Sarwjeet is a very cooperative and friendly person.

Internal feedback: He is a hard working, obedient and disciplined staff member.

Experience with SpiceJet: I have been working here since the past two years, and all in all, it has been a wonderful experience being in customer service. I learn something new each day, and have experienced all those aspects that are necessary to boost anyone's career. Working in SpiceJet has given me a wholesome view of the aviation industry. By working in a such an organisation, I now feel more confident as it has brought a lot of positive changes in me, personally and professionally.

February 2015 | www.spiceroutemag.com

Sahil Sadana, Amritsar Base Customer feedback: Recently, my wife and I got stuck at Amritsar airport due to the sudden cancellation of the Bengaluru flight. We are senior citizens and were upset as we did not know what to do next. Sahil went out of his way to help us reach our destination.

Internal feedback: Sahil is a lively and hardworking person. He is proactive during challenging situations.

Experience with SpiceJet: I have been with SpiceJet since 2012, and am happy with the work enviroment here. My colleagues, seniors and management are a constant source of support.

Puneet Chopra, Delhi Base Internal feedback: Puneet has ably led the team from the front during crisis.

He ensures that the staff efficiently handles various situations. He is armed with a good knowledge of the system and plans well with the resources at hand.

Experience with SpiceJet: The various challenges that I come across here have helped me to grow professionally. My career path is on the rise.

Everyday brings with it new experiences and I get to learn new things.

Prem Singh Shekhawat, Jaipur Base Customer feedback: Prem Singh Shekhawat was extremely courteous and helpful.

Internal feedback: A hardworking employee, he receives numerous appreciation mails from customers. He is a smart worker and discplined at work.

Experience with SpiceJet: I have been working with SpiceJet for almost four years, and the entire journey has been great and much appreciated. I will continue to proudly promote the airline.

Kiran PB, Bengaluru Base Customer feedback: Kiran was extremely helpful and approachable during my travel with SpiceJet. Internal feedback: A hard worker, Kiran follows all instructions and is quite dedicated at work.

Experience with SpiceJet: A good team player, Kiran leads from the front and maintains a cheerful personality.

Chunky John, Bengaluru Base Customer feedback: Chunky is an extremely polite and helpful person.

Internal feedback: A sincere, cheerful and reliable employee, we are proud to have Chunky as our team member.

Experience with SpiceJet: I have been a part of the SpiceJet family since September last year, and endeavour to be a dedicated individual and a good team player.

Avinash Jagade, Belgaum Base Internal feedback: During some difficult situations, Avinash has been observed as being the most accommodating with regard to scheduling of shifts, working extra hours when flights were getting disrupted, and taking over of shifts at the last moment. A responsible employee, we are happy to have him in the SpiceJet family.

Experience with SpiceJet: It’s been almost two years since I joined SpiceJet, and this has been my first job in the aviation industry. SpiceJet has not only provided me a platform to showcase my knowledge and put my skills to test, but has also helped me to improve and imbibe a lot in my personal and professional life. I love this job and I'm enjoying every minute of it. Here, I got an opportunity to learn about people, places and the nuances of customer service.

I would like to thank SpiceJet ‘with all my heart’, for motivating me to work even harder. I am proud to be a part of this organisation.

Nigel Theodore, Goa Base Customer feedback: Nigel is a very good team player and an extremely helpful person.

Internal feedback: Nigel is always dedicated towards his work.

An excellent team player, he is flexible when it comes to shifts.

On December 16 last year, when there was a difficult situation at the airport, he came to work to help his colleagues despite being his weekly off.

Dadapir Saiyadali Mullanavar, Belgaum Base Internal feedback: Dadapir voluntarily offered his help during certain difficult situations. He was most flexible with regard to his break shifts, working for extra hours during cancelled and delayed flights, taking a charge of shifts at the 11th hour. He was extremely responsible and dedicated at work, and the entire Belgaum team is proud of him.

Experience with SpiceJet: I have been working with SpiceJet since 2012, and this organisation has given me a very good experience and opportunity to perform challenging tasks and strengthen my skills.

Interacting with passengers is the job I love the most. I will continue to give my hundred percent to SpiceJet everyday, ‘with all my heart’.

Mirza Zaki, Hyderabad Base Customer feedback: Due to the heavy fog, my flight got delayed and this irked some passengers. Mirza handled the situation really well, and was even appreciated.

Internal feedback: He has an enviable expertise in assuaging the sentiments of irate passengers.

Experience with SpiceJet: My journey with SpiceJet since 2011, has been amazing. My colleagues and team members are extremely helpful, ensuring a vibrant and positive work environment.

Mehdi Hussain, Hyderabad Base Customer feedback: Recently, there was a group of irate passengers on our flight which was delayed due to fog. Mehdi handled the situation with ease and understanding and was commended by passengers.

Internal feedback: Mehdi always delivers exceptional customer service.

Experience with SpiceJet: Ever since I joined in 2011, the journey has been wonderful. This is my first job, and working with SpiceJet is truly an enjoyable experience.

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inside SpiceJEt

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February 2015 | www.spiceroutemag.com

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