Pune Unlimited - 1

UNLTD. PEOPLE | FOOD | NIGHTLIFE | EVENTS | TRAVEL

April 1, 2014

Naam mein kya rakha hai?

How Pune got its name..

Time out?

Not exactly…

BRB

What’s all the fuss about? It’s just a curfew.

5 quick weekend getaways around Pune

HUMOUR

PUNERI

Twitterpanti

maangein poori karo!

Punekars’ wishlist for the city…

INSIDE: InstaPune | Scor’d | Entertainment | Pune Express | Photo Feature

EDITOR’S NOTE

No more limits.

What is Pune?

A number of monikers have been used to describe it. Like every other city that has a history, Pune means different things to different people.

And, that’s what Pune Unltd. is. It’s a look at all those various things that make the city whatever it is to us.

Pune Unltd. is a humble effort to showcase the city, highlight its quirks, bring out the unknown and discover a whole new city that we didn’t realise existed right under our noses.

”Pune Unltd. is a humble effort to showcase the city, highlight its quirks, bring out the unknown and discover a whole new city that we didn’t realise existed right under our noses.” @adityakuber hello@puneunltd.com Editors

In this magazine, we will focus on people, places, the food, the idiosyncrasies (ever asked a Punekar for directions?), the quirks and a thriving subculture that is helping give Pune a whole new identity… another step in the evolution of a city that is pushing its boundaries (literally and figuratively) and breaking limits.

We are also trying to create a new way of creating, sharing and consuming content. The magazine includes web-created content from others (crowdsourcing) and also conventionally created articles, photos and more. We want this to be an inclusive magazine that doesn’t distinguish between the medium used to create content.

Finally, we want you to be the writers, photographers and contributors for Pune Unltd. It’s, after all, a means of showing the world everyone’s Pune.

Aditya Kuber Veethi Telang Apeksha Bhagchandani

Contributors Vedvrat Shikarpur Sapna Sarfare

Aditya Kuber

Design Prasanta Kundu Maddy Kulkarni Somnath Kulkarni

Marketing Anish Sohoni Rekha Achtani

Publisher Media Sphere Communications Pvt. Ltd. www.mediasphere.co.in Cover Photo: Aditya Kuber

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IN THIS ISSUE

9

Naam mein kya rakha hai?

We, being the proud Punekars that we are, love to correct anyone and everyone who refers to Pune as ‘Poona’. But, how many of us really know how the city got its name?

Activism

11

For the love of nature Pooja Bhale, founder of Protecterra Ecological Foundation, speaks about creating awareness regarding sustainability and conservation of nature.

Cover Story

12

Puneri maangein poori karo!

Punekars’ wishlist for the city…

Humour

8 8

4

Maushinche Pau’share’ Twitterpanti

PUNE UNLTD.

IN THIS ISSUE

17

Time out? Not exactly…

What’s all the fuss about?

It’s just a curfew.

Students’ Section

18

Food

Linguistically speaking...

Learn a new language in any one of these wonderful institutes in Pune.

22

Pasta Vasool!

PASTA! Comfort food at its absolute best. How about a Puneri twist to the pasta? Here are two super easy and quick pasta recipes that involve masalas from our very own cuisine.

Other Stories

20

Photo Feature

24

The Story of Coffee

Travel

28

BRB 5 quick weekend getaways around Pune.

26

The Puneri Drama

30

InstaPune

31

Scor’d

32

Breaking News!!

33

Events

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PUNE EXPRESS It’s time to change Pune!

With impending elections, we asked Punekars to speak about one thing they’d like to change about the city to make it a better place to live in.

Akash Gosavi

Rama Kulkarni

PR Consultant

Student

Public transport in the city needs to improve if it has to keep up with the pace of development and must address environmental issues. The city has witnessed a remarkable rise in the number of two and four wheelers only due to poor public transport facilities. People use their own vehicles to commute simply because they cannot depend on the city’s transport system anymore. The scenario worsens as we travel into the interior areas of the city. Better public transport will not only help reduce the congestion of vehicles on the road but, it will also help control the city’s pollution to a great extent.

Asmita Chattopadhyay Analyst, KPMG Pune lacks good infrastructure.

It is otherwise a culturally rich city. I guess if it gets beautified a little more, it can attract more business heads. Also, in terms of election candidates, I would expect intellect and literacy.

This is keeping in mind that certain political figures who barely get elected due to their infamous and strong monopoly over the crime rates in the state. This will help solve issues in the long run.

My basic point which needs to be taken up is the development of roads. Not a single road in this city is in decent condition.

Far from it. Something also needs to be done about the uncontrollable traffic situation.

Tanmaya Vyas PR Consultant There are so many things I want to change about the city.

But the one that is of extreme importance is infrastructure, right from roads to water management. This is because the present condition is deplorable. Every year, we face the same problem with the onset of summers. And I haven’t seen a well-constructed road in a long time. Everywhere, it is dug. If the basic infrastructure is not good, how can we even fathom advanced development? And, for the past six decades, elections have been contested and won on the basis of these basic needs; water, jobs and infrastructure.

We would love to know your views on the topic.

Write to us at hello@puneunltd.com

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PUNE UNLTD.

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HUMOUR Bhaaji ghya Bhaaji, Taaji Taaji Bhaaji!!

I sell best ani freshest bhaji in Mandai. Shejarchya bai kade jau naka, sadki bhendi ani choti tondli miltil.

I no bag give, khud leke aaneka, otherwise don’t come only.

Don hajaar saatshe ekon ainshi mhanje kiti sanga bara? Not know?? How will you stay Pune?

Sagda things in Pune, I only know. Take bhaaji & talk bhaaji.

You also take advise, it not grow in your garden.

Ask Raghu Rikshawala on corner there, last week only his wife is tomach dukhing, I give name of medicine.

Now ekdum ok. Mere ko time nai hain abhi. Now go. Nex plij.

Twitterpanti Gujju Ben @mrspooja74 #sunnyleone: U can touch me anywhere baby.. #AlokNath: touches her head and says “jeeti raho beti”

Priest @UdaasPriest Holi is Indians relaxing their skin with colors for a day which otherwise they try to paint white through fairness creams rest of the year.

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The Bad Doctor @doctoratlarge Dear ladies, it’s true that Rahul Gandhi is good-looking, rich and dumb – but remember, you’ll be voting for him for PM, not for husband.

Mukesh Bhai’s Diary @Ambaniji Asked Nita for the remote control while watching TV and she asked ‘Modi ka yaan Rahul ka?’ She is so clever.

PUNE UNLTD.

HERITAGE WATCH

Naam mein kya rakha hai?

We, being the proud Punekars that we are, love to correct anyone and everyone who refers to Pune as ‘Poona’. But, how many of us really know how the city got its name?

Vedvrat Shikarpur

B

efore Pune transformed into what it is now, it was a pensioner’s paradise; full of sprawling bungalows and beautiful greenery. Move further back into the past and Pune was once the summer capital of the British, with many Englishstyled cottages and buildings still adorning the city. It was, therefore, christened the Queen of Deccan. What’s more, it was the cultural capital of the Peshwas and was full of wadas.

Pune finds its roots as part of the Yadava dynasty and that was only after it was a part of the Rashtrakutas. All said and done, this city’s history can go even backwards, as historians have found stone-age implements on the banks of the Mula river. Pune’s history is one that can keep a historian busy for decades, and how it got its name is a tale in itself.

There are many reasons behind Pune’s christening.

The word ‘Pune’ is derived from the Marathi word Punyanagari, which means the city of virtue. The name can be attributed to the fact that Pune is situated on the confluence or sangam of the Mula and Mutha rivers.

This merger of the rivers is considered sacred or punya.

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Timeline: * 937 BCE: Punya Vishaya or Punaka Vishaya * 13th Century: Punaka Wadi * 13th-16th century: Punyanagari (the official name of the city is unknown for Pune was a small village at the time) * 16th century: Pune * 1703 to 1705: Muhiyabad * 1705 (throughout Peshwa and Maratha rule): Pune * During the British rule since 1817: Poona * Present: Pune This is the reason why we see many temples and sacred buildings in and around our city.

The oldest origins of Pune can be seen on the copper plates of the Rashtrakuta dynasty, dated 937 BCE, which refer to the town as Punya-Vishaya or Poonak-Vishaya.

The Pataleshwar stone-cut temple complex was built

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HERITAGE WATCH

during this era. By the 13th century, the city became known as Punaka Wadi. It was later that it was renamed to Punyanagari and was considered the city of virtue. Many temples were built during this time, the most prominent being the Punyeshwar temple. It would go on to change from Punyanagari to what it is today.

The city was called Pune during the rule of the Marathas, when Shahaji Raje Bhosale (father of Shivaji Maharaj) appointed Rango Bapuji Dhadphale as the first administrator of the city. Pune was the place where Shivaji Maharaj spent his childhood days. During the long-running conflict between Marathas and Mughals, the town was occupied by Aurangzeb from 1703 to 1705, and renamed Muhiyabad.

The Marathas, however, successfully recaptured Sinhagad fort and the city was once again titled Pune. Pune would then see its most glorious days when it flourished as the cultural capital of the Peshwas and prospered as a result of the efforts of Baji Rao Peshwa and Nanasaheb Peshwa. It was their reigns, which attributed to the many peths and baugs that the city takes immense pride in.

The British rule, however, brought with it a whiff of fresh air and the city witnessed entitlement yet again. Pune became Poona and was seized from the Peshwas by the British after winning the battle of Kirkee (presently Khadki). It was during this time that Pune saw the establishment of many educational centers such as College of Engineering Pune (COEP), Fergusson College and University of Pune.

The Pune Municipality was also established during this time, in 1858.

Post its independence from the British rule, Poona finally became Pune and has stayed that way ever since. All maps and administration entities such as official buildings, corporations and organisations that were created after the city’s liberation refer to the city as Pune.

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PUNE UNLTD.

ACTIVISM

For the love of nature Pooja Bhale, founder of Protecterra Ecological Foundation, speaks about creating awareness regarding sustainability and conservation of nature.

Sapna Sarfare

P

rotecterra Ecological Foundation (PEF) was established in 2011 with the sole purpose of making people sensitive about our planet. Pooja Bhale, the brains behind the organisation, is an MSc in Conservation from UCL, London and BSc (Hons) in Animal Biology and Conservation from the same institution.

PEF kicked off with a vision to sensitise people about the conservation of nature and according to Bhale, that’s the crux. “We are working with people across age and social barriers to create a sense of sensitivity towards our environment.” Based in Pune, PEF aims to provide a solution not only for the problems that directly affect us but also the indirect ones. One such example is finding a solution for animal extinction.

PEF speaks of ‘respecting nature, practicing sustainability, coming together to protect the environment, changing attitudes and raising awareness’. These points, as per Bhale’s views, are vital for a city like Pune. With increasing urbanisation, people have forgotten traditional values and lost their connection with nature.

The organisation thrives on one notion; development, despite being important, cannot override the environment. It is essential to take sustainability into account at all costs. “Pune, which was once quite a sensible society, is fast becoming an urban consumerist metropolis. This, in turn, is reducing our happiness and joy. Look around you!”, Bhale exclaims.

viding EcoEd or Ecology education in schools and colleges. Today, it is essential that we conserve nature, so that our children can look forward to a better tomorrow.

It is not just talk anymore, it is their requirement! So, with the necessary training, children will learn to respect the environment which will lead to a change in ecological behaviour”, she adds.

PEF houses an Eco Library, a Book and Nature Club and runs Animal Rescue operations, which forms a vital part of their work profile.

One of the key projects of PEF is its Open World Community Centre (OWC). It is a green space created by the organisation near the city, consisting of 1100 trees of 35 varieties, 3 ponds, an organic farm, an eco-library and campsite. Created from scrap and waste, it boasts of a zero-concrete centre. Anyone and everyone who wants to leave the polluted Puneri air behind, is welcome here to be one with nature and learn more about eco-friendly ways. Activities include bird watching, a nature trail, meditation, tree plantation and organic farming. You can also rent a tent, attend training sessions and even adopt a tree!

“Several other organisations are also working towards the same goal. It is now time to set egos aside and work together towards one goal. I feel that citizens of Pune are aware of the environmental conditions but simply don’t know how to go about changing them. And, Protecterra Ecological Foundation is making its own small attempt in bringing about a change”, Bhale signs off.

“One of the most important issues discussed was pro-

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PUNERI maang

Punekars’ wish l Vedvrat Shikarpur

P

une is a city we love and are excessively proud of (Jajwalya abhimaan!!) but, we have a long way to go before we can call it the ‘city of our dreams’. We Punekars expect much more from the city and want it to change for the better. Here is a list of the top-10 things Pune demands:

1. Better traffic management “What’s with the traffic in this city?” is one of the most frequently asked questions by Punekars and visitors alike. We do have lanes you know. And, they don’t go zigzag! The yellow light means you should slow down and not speed up like your life depends on crossing the signal. There’s a light (and sometime sound) on your vehicle that indicates which direction you want to turn in. It’s called ‘Indicator’ or didn’t you know? You really don’t need to frantically wave your left hand if you want to turn left. What the city also needs is better public transport. The Metro project for the city is still pending and our buses are known to be overcrowded. Let’s hope things change.

2. Better roads Germany is famous for their Autobahns whereas Pune is famous for its khaddobahns (pothole-filled roads).

The advent of monsoon brings a smile on our faces but leaves the roads in terrible conditions. Roads in Pune are a mess, largely due to faulty construction and incessant digging work that never seems to stop. Plus, the city’s development is largely improper, leading to various flyovers and junctions. To add to it, Pune lacks proper footpaths, and those present are invaded by hawkers and the homeless (that’s one more thing Pune needs to tackle; Poverty), making pedestrians walk on the roads. We do not expect highways everywhere but is a pothole-free, smooth road too much to ask for?

Guess so!

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PUNE UNLTD.

COVER STORY

gein poori karo!

list for the city‌

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COVER STORY 3. Safety for women Delhi may have received the unfortunate rape-capital-of-India tag but, Pune is not a very safe city either.

Although much safer than most metros, untoward incidents towards women have been reported in Pune.

Sadly, they are on a rise. The increase in chain snatching incidents has not only brought up safety issues for women, but Punekars in general. Gold chains worth Rs. 3.27 lakh were snatched in two days, as reported on December 5, 2013. Can’t women wear a mangalsutra without any fear for their own well-being? We hope Pune becomes a sfe city for women which, will also help in tackling the following point.

4. Change the curfew limit A party in a club reaches its high point around 10:3011 pm. And then, in just a bit, you hear the dreaded words, “Place your last orders please”. It reminds me of my childhood days and my mother would call me back home right after the sun set. Respected government, come on! For starters with, let’s agree on 1 am, shall we? The issues of drunken driving along with incidents threatening the safety of women and party goers in general are the reason pubs and lounges are forced to shut down so early. We hope the limit is extended and Punekars can party harder, longer and much safer.

5. An IPL team, maybe?

Now, we all know what happened to the Pune Warriors and most would say the team gave a bad name to the city. Now, we have a spare cricket ground and no team, jaga vaya jatie na! We still want a team of our own to cheer, a team that is better than PWI but with better players, right? Here’s hoping we miraculously get a new IPL team, one which the city will be proud of, just as it is of the Pune Football Club.

6. Green cover Pune once had a jungle (yes, it did). Grandparents talk about bibtya (leopards) and landge (wolves) spotted in Kothrud. Although parts of the city developed, Pune had many baugs maintained from the Peshwa era and tekadis that made Pune the beautiful hill station it was (yes, hill station). Today, rapid development has changed the scene, tekadis are being encroached upon, and the only parks left in the city are IT parks. Pune needs more green coverage! Not that we need leopards and wolves gallivanting around town but, let’s be honest, this place is becoming a concrete jungle and true Punekars don’t want that. Oh no, sir!

7. More Marathi natka The city was also instrumental in being a destination for Marathi plays and many still remember nataks of Bal Gandharva, stand ups from Pu La Deshpande and more.

Though Purshottam and Firodiya are leading the mantle and helping keep the theatre scene alive amongst youngsters, Marathi theatre is slowly losing its hold. We look forward to musical plays like Sangeet Saubhadra, Sangeet Maan Apmaan, comedies like Sahi re Sahi and plays that tell a good story and bring forward everyone’s creative side.

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PUNE UNLTD.

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COVER STORY

8. More music Pune is the cultural capital of Maharashtra and so, don’t we need a wide variety of musical festivals? With two big musical festivals (Damru and Taalchakra) being scrapped, Punekars lost a chance to play host to a wonderful array of artists. The Sawai Gandharva is the gem of Pune but, the more the merrier, right? Be it bands or artists coming to the city for independent concerts or festivals like NH7, Vasantotsav, Swar Zankar, Jazz Festival, etc. Pune’s music scene needs a lot more.

walk directly to the front of it saying “Ek paach minta cha kaam aahe”. We Punekars have a serious problem with standing in queues and this also reflected in our inability to sticking to one lane on roads. Ghaich nusti! Let’s hope people in Pune learn to stand in a line and learn the value of patience. Dhakka bukki, orda ordi is not really what a cultured city like ours needs, right?

9. Less hoardings, more patya Seriously politicians, we do not care if it’s your birthday or if your party has achieved a phenomenal feat (we will see it all in the news). Most Punekars don’t even vote (which is bad) and stay away from politics. Why the need for the innumerable hoardings then, with lines like Ali lahar, kela kahar, Avaaz konacha, vadhdivsachya shubheccha and what not! Replace all those hoardings and ads with something the city is proud of, Puneri patya for example. Don’t we like reading them a lot more?

10. Punekars who stand in a line Let’s form a line that consists of a Punekar and people from other cities/regions. The Punekar will try everything possible in his power to get ahead and be done with his work. If it so happens that the Punekar arrives after the line is formed, he/she will ignore the line and

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PUNE UNLTD.

NIGHTLIFE

Time out?

Not exactly...

What’s all the fuss about? It’s just a curfew.

Apeksha Bhagchandani

I

’ll walk in, maybe have one drink, stay for about an hour and leave. But, I just HAVE to visit a club/ lounge newly opened in the city. If I love the place, I’ll become a regular for the next couple of years, maybe more. If I don’t, I’ll cringe to go back.

Many might say that Pune lacks a good nightlife since the 11:30 pm curfew came into existence. The places that are open until way past midnight are mostly visited by the cream crowd of the city. These clubs/lounges are either part of posh hotels or owned by posh owners, which is why they can afford to keep their doors open into the wee hours. But, what about the comfortable, middle-class Punekars? What do they do when the ‘regular’ places shut for the night?

I’m not a fan of spending thousands of rupees on 3-4 drinks. That’s the kind of monies you pay in posh places here. One drink for a thousand rupees? Yeah, right. Not for me, thankyouverymuch. The point of a nightout with friends is getting out of four walls, music, dancing, drinks and great food. And, as my friend says “dressing up to go out once in a while!” All of this in good company of close friends. True, a government-imposed deadline for these activities may seem unfair.

I pick a place that’ll provide reasonably priced drinks, good food and maybe music, catch up with friends and have a fun, memorable evening. We dutifully pay the bill before the place is ready to close. If we don’t want the evening to end just yet, we’ll take the party back home (with the good food parceled if some or all haven’t eaten yet).

Once in a while, if we want to visit one of the high-class clubs, we enjoy our drinks and food someplace else and later head to the club. It makes for a nice change of scene. And, unless you’re loaded and can afford the alcohol prices, nursing one drink is more than enough.

You’ve already had your quota earlier anyway.

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Here’s a small list of the best* ‘curfewed’ places in the city that you can visit: 1. Hoppipola 2. Hard Rock Café 3. 11 East Street Café 4. Wtf! 5. 1000 Oaks 6. Jimmy Hu 7. Mezza 9 8. Kiva 9. High Spirits 10. Irish Village On a more serious note, although I don’t want this to look like a city traffic police website, it’s in your best interest to not drink and drive. And, here’s some ‘fun’ trivia; the legal blood alcohol content (BAC) for when you’re behind the wheel is 0.03% or 30 mg in a 100 ml of blood. That is one or probably even a little less than one drink! There’s usually one such friend in a group who is not much of a drinker. Get him/her to drive.

So Punekars, I don’t get the reason for cribbing really.

We have a pretty smashing nightlife, don’t you think?

Here’s a list of the best clubs/lounges in Pune: 1. Kue Bar 2. Miami 3. Oak Lounge 4. Penthouze Nightlife 5. One Lounge *Note: These places are not mentioned in a ranking order.

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Linguistically speaking.

Sapna Sarfare

K

ing Charlemagne aptly stated, “To have another language is to possess a second soul.” It did the mighty old king a lot of good to know a mul tiple languages along with supporting lingual causes for the public. While that was centuries ago, the reality hasn’t changed a bit. A language still remains the one way to not only communicate but also understand a whole new world of ideas. People in India have always been keen on learning new languages. After all, a foreign language is an added advantage to your résumé too!

The city of Pune has a strong connection with foreign languages. Whether it is a student wishing to learn a new language for fun or a working professional hoping to increase the chances of excelling in his/her career – learning a new language, especially on a part-time basis, is well on their radar.

DEPARTMENT OF FOREIGN LANGUAGES – UNIVERSITY OF PUNE Popularly known as the Ranade Institute, this department, situated on FC Road, has been attracting students and language lovers since 1949. It provides courses in French, German, Japanese, Spanish and Russian. Right from an elementary level to PG degrees, one has options for both, full-time as well as part-time courses. From certificate, intensive certificate, diploma, intensive diploma, advanced diploma and special diploma, there is a variety of degrees you can attain. The best part is that different timings help one choose a course as per their needs.

The institute houses some of the most qualified teachers and its reputation is totally worth the long queues and admission hassles.

Link: http://www.unipune.ac.in/dept/fine_arts/foreign_ languages/default.htm

ALLIANCE FRANÇAISE, PUNE How about learning the world’s most romantic language from the land of wines, cheese, fashion and great style?

Alliance Française is one of the oldest institutes to learn French. The Pune branch was established in 1982 and has earned the reputation of being the best institute to learn the language from. Alliance Française offers various programmes to promote the language, including films and other recreational activities.

Link: http://alliancefrpune.org/

GOETHE INSTITUT – MAX MUELLER BHAVAN, PUNE Strengthening the ties between India and Germany, the Goethe Institut, popularly known as Max Mueller Bhavan, is situated on Dhole Patil Road. Most know Max Mueller as the famed indologist who is revered as much in India as in Germany. The courses range from intensive to super-intensive. It houses a vast library that is loved by students. And, it’s not all about studying here.

The institute believes in a lot of fun as well! Plays, films and debates on lush grounds are just a few of the many fun activities that you’ll enjoy.

Link: http://www.goethe.de/ins/in/poo/enindex.htm

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PUNE UNLTD.

...

STUDENTS’ SECTION

SYMBIOSIS INSTITUTE OF FOREIGN AND INDIAN LANGUAGES

Link: http://web.mit.edu/fll/www/events/

It’s no surprise that Symbiosis has covered everything under education. If you wish to learn foreign languages, you can choose from a variety of them viz. German, French, Spanish, Japanese, Korean and Chinese. The flexibility of choosing time slots according to your routine is the most attractive thing about this institute as they offer morning, afternoon, evening and even weekend batches. If constrained, you can also opt for the fast track or rapid weekend courses. Learning a foreign language never got better, don’t you think?

INSTITUTO HISPANIA

Link: http://www.eltis-symbiosis.org/SIFIL.html

MIT SCHOOL OF FOREIGN LANGUAGES AND LITERATURE The MIT School of Foreign Languages and Literature is a new entrant in the Pune language circle. One can learn French, German, Chinese, Japanese, Spanish, Portuguese, Russian and Italian here. Apart from learning the languages, you also get to understand aspects of your chosen language’s culture, literature, and films. There is a host of degrees you can opt to attain. You can choose to major in a language as well as pick minor subjects of your choice.

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The aim of this institute is to promote Spanish language and culture in India. They not only have language experts from India, but also from Spanish-speaking countries.

Indian. The courses range from basic certificate to diplomas and courses for business and tourism as well. One can also take advantage of e-learning options!

Link: http://www.institutohispania.com/index.php

CHRYSALIS Founded in 1997, Chrysalis offers foreign language training in French, German, Chinese and Spanish. The training period ranges from 3-6 months. You can enjoy private tuitions, wherein, a personal tutor will train you as per your requirements. This place was one of the first to offer Chinese language courses, basic and advanced.

Pune has always embraced foreign cultures and that’s one of the major reasons for its speedy urbanisation. So, go ahead and learn a new language. Apart from being fun, it might just open new doors for your career!

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PHOTO FEATURE

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You can see the brightest light when it’s the darkest. A view of the Pune skyline at night.

Photographer: Anvit Chandure

Û

A macro shot of a ghungroo.

Photographer: Anvit Chandure

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PUNE UNLTD.

PHOTO FEATURE

Ü

Two Eurasian Wigeons swimming in the lake.

Photographer: Harshad Burke

Û

Indian Ocean’s Rahul Ram performing at the NH7 festival in Pune.

Photographer: Anvit Chandure

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Pasta Vasool!

PASTA! Comfort food at its absolute best. How about a Puneri twist to the pasta? Here are two super easy and quick pasta recipes that involve masalas from our very own cuisine.

Apeksha Bhagchandani

In red sauce Ingredients (serves 2) Half a pack of spaghetti 1 tbsp butter 2 onions (chopped) (optional) 4 tomatoes (chopped) 1 or 2 packs of tomato puree (depending on whether you want it dry or wet) 10-12 curry leaves One and a half of garlic knobs (paste) 1 tsp cumin seeds (optional) 1 tsp red chilli powder (or more if you like it spicy) 1 tsp coriander powder 1 tsp Marathi black masala (optional) Salt to taste

Method: Boil the pasta and set aside. Add some butter to it and mix so it doesn’t get sticky.

Heat some oil in a pot and add onions and tomatoes. Stir for about 5 minutes.

Add tomato puree and mix well.

Next, add curry leaves, garlic, cumin seeds, chilli powder, coriander powder, black masala and salt. Let it simmer on low heat for about 10 minutes.

Add pasta to the concoction and mix thoroughly. You could even simply pour the sauce over the pasta and serve.

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FOOD

In white sauce

Ingredients (serves 2) Half a packet of macaroni 1 tbsp butter 1-2 glasses of milk (quantity depends on whether you want it dry or wet) 5 tbsp of cheese spread 2 cheese cubes (grated) 2 green chillies (finely chopped) 10 pepper seeds (ground) Half a tsp of turmeric powder 1 tsp of red chilli powder (optional) Some coriander (finely chopped) 1 tsp of cumin seeds (optional) 1 tsp of Marathi red masala (optional) Salt to taste Method: Boil the macaroni and set aside. Add some butter to it so it doesn’t get sticky.

Heat some oil in a pot and add milk.

Bring to a boil and shift to medium flame.

Add green chillies, all the cheese, ground pepper, red chilli powder, turmeric powder, cumin seeds, coriander and salt.

Stir for 2-3 minutes.

Let it simmer on low flame till the sauce gets a little thick.

Add the macaroni and mix thoroughly.

Serve hot or cold!

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To enjoy the original Italian pasta in Pune, here are the best Italian joints in the city that serve delicious pasta!

Dario’s – Sundarban Hotel Lane 1, off North Main Road, Koregaon Park, Pune East Block, Amanora Town Centre, Hadapsar Kharadi Bypass, Near Magarpatta City, Hadapsar, Pune The restaurant has a beautiful, warm setting and it’s an absolute pleasure to dine here. The pastas Arrabiata and Alfredo, the Risotto Siciliano and the Tiramisu are all heaven on plates.

The Koregaon Park branch is vegetarian, whereas, the one in Amanora serves non-veg dishes too.

La Pizzeria (Little Italy) Bund Garden Road and Shivaji Nagar – 361/5, Hotel Shriman, Opposite Pune Central Mall, Bund Garden Road, Pune 465, Ganeshkhind, Next To Pune Central Mall 2, off Model Colony, Shivaji Nagar, Pune The Pasta Stagioni, Pasta Primavera, the Gnocchi and Nachos are simply yummy! If you haven’t been to any of the branches yet, you haven’t eaten Italian food in Pune yet.

Maddy’s Pasta Bar Shop 5, Karishma Society, Kothrud, Pune A no-fuss pasta joint in the heart of the city and what’s more, it’s awesome! Try the Fusilli pasta in Portugal sauce and the Mac ‘n’ Cheese. You. Will. Love. Them.

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The Story of C Vedvrat Shikarpur

T

hrough the eyes of a hot morning beverage lover, there are only two cults; the cult of tea and the other of coffee. While India is dominated mostly by tea lovers, recently, the rate of coffee lovers has been rapidly escalating. The story of a small cup of beverage began with the fusion of tea leaves in a mix of milk, water and sugar. The flavour of tea made way for millions of tea stalls all over India, including Pune. Today, these tea stalls are known for their speciality; cutting chai.

Tea is something that is timeless. Years have passed, yet the tea stall has mostly stayed the same. The same metallic kettle, the same khakra biscuits, the same samosas, pohe, etc., to accompany it. The Irani/Parsi tea cafes took it to a different level, with the favourites being Goodluck and Vohumen Cafe among others. They were the ones that introduced bun maska with chai, which till today is the best tea experience for most.

ious choices like latte, mocha, decaff, etc. and one was used to customers looking with blank expressions at the board to know which one is the ‘real coffee’. This was the time when Cafe Coffee Day (CCD) became the next big thing.

An Indian startup, it went on to become one of the most successful brands ever; now having over a million outlets all over India. It revolutionised coffee and introduced us to cold coffee (though Durga introduced it to Pune). However, it’s actually commendable that CCD created a name for itself in a world where Durga Cafe (the one which has cashed in on the Durga name), the Original Durga (which has no outlets) and small places offering cold coffee (PD

The announcement of Starbucks opening its first cafe in Pune set the coffee community abuzz. The Starbucks outlet is set to open on the wonderful main lane of Koregaon Park which, till today has been dominated by multiple CCD outlets (my last count was 4), as the place for having a cup of coffee (which today is used more as part of a pickup line). The opening of Starbucks, the coffee giant of the world, changed the way Punekars see their much-loved beverage. Here is a take on the evolution of coffee in Pune.

The Age of Filter Coffee Coffee came to Pune via the South. Yes, the first real place to serve a cup of coffee and make it our addiction were the Udupi restaurants. Vaishali, Roopali and other such places were the ones that made coffee a drink to reckon with. Their filter coffee is still as much a delight as it was during the time of our grandparents, when it was the hip thing. The restaurants serving filter coffee still exist, with their dosas, idli sambars, uttappas and sandwiches being the favourite. But then, filter coffee evolved.

The Advent of Cafes In a time when Internet cafes were a rage, came another rage; the real cafes, which served coffee. There were var-

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Coffee being one, which is now located elsewhere (do let us know where!) and as low as Rs. 15 (back then, it would be Rs. 10) exist.

The age of overly-expensive coffee With CCD, came other big players. Barista, Costa, Aromas, The Coffee Bean and Tea Leaf and more. Mocha joined the list too but shifted to hookahs, which took over from there, starting a frenzy of hookah parlours all over town, only to be banned.

Today, coffee is a staple in the office. It is something that wakes us up, something we need to get ourselves out of our procrastination mode, something that rejuvenates us and something that’s plain addictive.

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Maybe, the introduction of Starbucks will mean an end of an era for most of the afore-mentioned coffee hangouts. Or maybe, they will all prevail just as they have for so many years. Things will change, however, this cannot be the end. This is India, where some places are frozen in time and still give us a nostalgia of our heritage while some places instigate us to bring abouta change. And, this is not any mere Indian city; this is Pune, where the old and the new can co-exist. Where a chaiwala can operate his tea stall right outside CCD, where Vaishali and Roopali still have enough takers even with CCD, Barista and Aromas around. This is Pune, a place of magnificent wadas, sprawling bungalows and high rise societies with thousands of flat owners. I believe, all three can exist at the same time.You never know, we might see an Udupi place serving filter coffee, a CCD, Barista and a Starbucks on the same road, maybe even next to each other. Our co-existence is truly commendable.

Time to have a sip of hot coffee now! Slurrp!

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ENTERTAINMENT

The Puneri Drama Vedvrat Shikarpur and Sapna Sarfare

T

heatre or plays in Marathi are referred to as natak, the literal meaning of which is, well, drama. Although drama is just one aspect of a play, in our culture and tradition it represents an integral aspect. Natak wasn’t just an art form created for entertainment; it was also a way of storytelling. Most plays came into the limelight by talking about social and political events of their respective eras.

It will be hard to confirm the exact date and place of the very first natak in Maharashtra. There is, however, evidence to suggest that it all began even before the Peshwa-Maratha era. The Maratha era saw the rise of a different art form that mingled with the plays, called powada, a genre of Marathi poetry that emerged during the late 17th century. Early powadas were composed using eye witness accounts and would narrate histor-

ical events in an inspiring manner. The powadas were instrumental for keeping alive the idea of Swaraj and Marathi pride induced by Shivaji Maharaj in the general populace. Thus, theatre and associated art forms found the funding and support of the princely class and the Maharajas and Peshwas would normally be part of the audience.

By the late 18th century, Vishnudas Bhave, a leading dramatist, pioneered the presentation of Marathi theatre, staging famous plays like Seeta Swayamvar, which had the Raja of the princely state of Sangli as part of the audience. Later, Annasaheb Kirloskar, another Marathi playwright, translated the four acts of Kalidas’ renowned Sanskrit play Abhidnyan Shakuntalam. He presented them on stage in 1880 as a musical play titled Shakuntal. It comprised a mix of Hindustani and Carnatic classical music and paved way for Sangeet natakas, which would dominate the 19th century. Govind Ballal Deval, a part of Kirloskar’s theatre group, was mentor to illustrious students like Bhaurao Kolhatkar, Ganesh Bodas and Bal Gandharva. While his plays Durga, Mricchakatika, Jhujjarao and Sanshaykallol were legendary, it was Sharada that was a milestone in terms of bold natakas.

Sharada voiced against the custom of marrying young girls to older men. Such was its impact that it led to the introduction of the Child Marriage Restraint Act, passed in 1929.

From then on, plays would not only be an art form for retelling stories but also a form of portraying the right and wrong in society. Krushnaji Prabhakar Khadilkar was a noted writer and also editor of Kesari, a newspaper started by the great Indian freedom fighter Lokmanya Tilak. His plays would attack the social traditions of the time and appeal to the masses with an aim to support the freedom struggle. Keechakvadha was based on an episode from Mahabharata, which metaphorically attacked the policies of the British colonial government. The play was later banned for its revolutionary impact. Other notable plays composed by him include Bhaubandaki, Maanapmaan, Satvapariksha and Sangeet

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Swayamvar. A central character from some of these plays, played by Bal Gandharva, gained mass appeal.

Narayan Shripad Rajhans, better known as Bal Gandharva (a name given to him by Tilak), was known for his soulful voice and great acting. He gained fame for his portrayal of female characters in Marathi plays, as women were forbidden to take part in plays back then.

The songs rendered by him are, till date, considered classics and greatly appreciated by Marathi critics and audiences. Bal Gandharva helped revive Marathi plays, which faced difficult times after great singer-actor Bhaurao Kolhatkar’s death. His contemporaries include Keshavrao Bhosle (known as Sangeet Surya) and Deenanath Mangeshkar. Ram Ganesh Gadkari was another theatre veteran at the time and is considered the greatest poet-dramatist in India, after Kalidas.

Marathi theatre, nevertheless, lost its impact and hold over the audience since the introduction of cinema.

Despite the popularity of other art forms introduced

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ever since, Marathi theatre came through and even today, finds a good audience. Theatre is still considered an important art in Maharashtra, especially in a culturally-inclined city like Pune. Sangeet natakas of the Bal Gandharva era are being revived and have found immense respect and adoration among the audience.

Jaanta Raja, a popular play chronicling the life of Shivaji Maharaj and written by Shiv-Shahir Babasaheb Purandare, has been staged over 800 times, not only in Maharashtra but also in Andhra Pradesh, Delhi, Agra, Madhya Pradesh and even the United States! The drama casts over 200 artists, along with animals such as elephants, camels and horses, bringing historic scenes to life.

Marathi Bana is another stage act that has kept alive the tradition of Marathi theatre and sangeet.

Looking at the response Marathi natakas and theatre are getting in the 21st century, we can confidently say that the art form will thrive for generations to come.

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BRB

Deadlines. Responsibilities. Traffic. Relations

Life is a chalta-firta racket that doesn’t seem to end. Haili I’m not working, I am battling against the never-ending pe has a number of long weekends lined up has me in the behind. If you’re sailing in the same boat as I, here go fiv refuel!

5 quick weekend getaways around Pune

1. Aamby Valley

2. Matheran

India’s first self-contained aspirational city, Aamby Valley is a blend of mystique and grandeur. Watch misty mountain peaks from a distance, take a walk through the enchanting gardens or simply, experience the gentle, balmy mountain breeze. Book a table at Campfire Point, a great outdoor venue that serves extravagant barbecues and dinners. For “just the two of you”, Aamby Valley offers exotic designer residential villas to revel in the splendour as well as Timber Chalets to spend some quiet quality time. A pristine locale with nature at its heart, Aamby Valley is the ultimate getaway to chill.

Away from the noisy, busy city life lies this beautiful hill station, Matheran. The cliffs; incredibly steep. The views; breathtakingly gorgeous. The charm; out of the world.

The panoramic scenes that Matheran offers are everything you need in a quick getaway. Visit the Hart Point that gives a glimpse of Mumbai lights amidst darkness.

Shop till your heart’s content in the main bazaar. Take a trip through the British and Parsi homes that take you all the way up to the Charlotte Lake. Matheran gives you an opportunity to unwind amidst true, natural beauty.

Distance: 120 km from Pune

Distance: 87 km from Pune

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TRAVEL 4. Mahabaleshwar Putting the “points” in the matter, Mahabaleshwar is the hub of soaring peaks and magnificent valleys. Renowned for its sightseeing points, Mahabaleshwar provides a unique perspective of the hill range. Temperature during winter goes as low as 5 degree Celcius, making the weather super chilly. Make sure to visit Lodwick Point, which is one of the most-visited points in the area, thanks to the breath-taking view of the Jor Valley. Other famous points are Elphinstone Point, Falkland Point, Helen’s Point and Bombay Point, all towered well above the sea level to give you a mesmerising view of the hills.

Stay at the MTDC Holiday Resort that faces thick forests and valleys to stay in touch with nature, literally. Don’t forget to pack some strawberries, jams and the famous chikki on your way back!

Distance: 120 kms from Pune

5. Lavasa

ships.

ing from another city and living by myself in Pune, when etty household issues. Nonetheless, the fact that this year mood of making a prompt escape and leave the ruckus ve destinations around Pune to unwind yourself. Go on, Veethi Telang

3. Diveagar Beach So what if the New Year trip to Goa didn’t materialise?

It’s always too crowded anyway! Diveagar, on the other hand, is a cosy coastal village with Konkan in its heart.

Blessed with intense, natural beauty, the Diveagar beach has a flat stretch of sand for a good 6 km. Spend your day exploring this hidden paradise and head to the beach in the evening. Dive into the waters with your group of friends, eat and enjoy while you’re away from the hullabaloo of the city! Stay in the arms of nature as you create memories you’ll never forget. The warmth of sand, sweetness of coconuts and water spread as far as the eye can see will make it a little hard for you to leave this untouched piece of nature.

Talk about quick getaways! An hour from the city of Pune, Lavasa prides itself on being a private, planned hill city based on the Italian town Portofino. The wide-open expanses and a scenic nature waterfront make Lavasa the perfect place to spend your weekend in. The highlight of this state-of-the-art mini city is the Italian street that has plenty of restaurants to satiate your taste buds.

Should you wish to extend your stay, rent a room at The Waterfront Shaw and enjoy the magnificent view of the pristine lake. Attractive packages await the explorer in you to push the limit of your indulgence.

Distance: 37 km from Pune

Daru gheun jatana pakadla gelat, tar me no blame karuch han baba! I toh warned tula.

Distance: 160 km from Pune

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COVER STORY INSTAPUNE

@thepunekar We love everything about Pune and scout for Instagram images that showcase its spirit. If you have an interesting image of the city, tag @thepunekar on Instagram and it could get featured here!

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@vipin4you

@lagiorginha

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@iganeshfit

@sharanshashank

@vedvrat

@veethitelang

@apeksha84

@prarthana_nargundkar PUNE UNLTD.

SCOR’D Film

Ragini MMS 2

Film

Lakshmi

Horror Good!

Bar

Dramatic Reality

Jimmy Hu

Diner

Brooklyn Shuffle

Charming!

Book

Meh!

I n Pursuit Of the Woman

by Rajbir Gill

Book The

Only for the uber-romantic! facebook.com/Puneunltd

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Edge of Power by Tuhin Sinha

Intriguing!

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SPECIAL FEATURE

BREAKING NEWS!!

Aaj chi taaji khabar!

Team Pune Unltd.

I

t’s true that kanoon’s hands are long and reach places but, we have informers where the former’s hands will never reach. Not in this lifetime. And, we firmly believe in the ‘Right to Information’ Act. You deserve to know the goings on in the city. So, Punekars, brace yourselves as we break exclusive news about Pune to you. Remember, we told you first.

EXCLUSIVE! This just in! We hear Pink Floyd is all set to give a dhaansu performance at our beloved venue Raman Baug, Pune! What’s more, the band is said to be a huge fan of rapper Yo Yo Honey Singh and plans to perform his hit numbers too! We hear they’re getting a whopping 3.45 Crore for the 90-minute performance.

EXCLUSIVE! It’s here! The moment we’ve all been waiting for! Chitale Bandhu announced today that all its branches will now be open from 2-4 pm. Plus, we know they’ve always maintained a ‘No Bargain’ rule. So, get this, they’re now open to bargaining. Stock up on the Bakarwadi, people!

EXCLUSIVE! Now, after some really great news, we have some really bad news as well. The legendary Vaishali restaurant on FC road will be serving its last orders at 11 pm tonight. Remember Savera, guys?

We were all so heartbroken when it shut down. Well, looks like the street is jinxed! Do you think Good Luck Café will follow?

This is unbearable.

EXCLUSIVE! Coming back to some more awesome news!

We’re excited to be the first ones to report that Pune will now have its very own Bullet Train. It will travel from Pimpri-Chinchwad to Swargate in just 3 minutes and 53 seconds! The state government was earlier planning to introduce a metro service but then decided to take a proud leap. So, what if Mumbai has a monorail? Meh. EXCLUSIVE! And, now, hold your breaths! Pune is about to become the most sanskaari city in the country, courtesy Mr. Alok Nath. He exclusively told us that he has decided to join Pune’s Aam Aadmi Party. Now comes the part to worry about. Guess whom he’s in talks with to take up the brand ambassador position? You’re not going to believe this..Sunny Leone!! If things work out, she will be the face of Pune’s AAP. Believed all that? LOL.

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Heritage Festival 2014 30 organisations welcome you to the third edition of Virasat Pune Heritage Festival. The festival that started in 2012 commemorates World Heritage Day which falls on April 18. Reputed organisations and professionals will come together to create awareness about Pune’s rich legacy and bring Punekars together for the cause of heritage conservation. It will have 40 activities which include Heritage Walks, Bus Tours, Workshops, Exhibitions, Quiz, Games, Cycling Ride and Evening Performances. For more details, check out the website: www.virasatpune.com.

EVENTS Workshop on Punjabi Cuisine From the land of 5 rivers comes a cuisine that is enjoyed by all.... make it a part of your daily food As not only is it healthy it also gives you the versatility to create more.

When: April 5

When: April 13 to April 20

Timing: 1 pm to 4:30 pm

Contact: virasatpune@janwani.org, 020-25709256

Fees: Rs. 600

Cookery Classes by Rajul

Workshop on Cake Decorating Techniques with Butter Cream

The various workshops and their timings are given below: Workshop on Cakes n Cookies Explore your passion for baking and learn to make sinfully delicious Cakes N Cookies

Hands on Workshop on Cake Decorating Techniques with Butter Cream in association with Cake Decor is scheduled for April 8.

When: April 8 Timings: 12 pm to 4 pm Fees: Rs. 25000 (including icing kit)

Workshop on Basic Fondant and Sugar craft Cake Decorating Hands On Workshop on Sugar craft & Fondant Cake Decorating in Association with Cake Decor is scheduled for April 9, Wednesday.

When: April 9 Time: 12:00 pm to 4:00 pm When: April 2

Fees: Rs. 3500

Timing: 1:00 pm to 4:30 pm

Where: Rajuls Cooking Classes, Sanghvi Bungalow, Shivajinagar, Pune

Fees: Rs.800

Contact: 9766622662

PH Intimate with DOSEM

Band & Beer Friday Nights

Penthouze Nightlife and LiMN Entertainment presents PH Intimate with DOSEM. Featuring- Oozeundat + Ashtrix. The trajectory behind Dosem’s exponential rise first occurred when he signed to Technasia’s label Sino in 2008 with his eloquently carved club hit ‘Silent Drop’ (2009), which got picked up by several underground techno moths and spawned interest in the new, young Catalonian artist. From here his profile flourished and following a re-release of the already cosmic classic ‘Beach Kisses’ on Green, he soon had material on imprints like Dig Deeper and Suara.

Begin your weekend with 11 East Street’s live band performance by Pratik on Friday, April 4. Enjoy a wide variety of beers, cocktails, mocktails and a sumptuous meal while you relax to the sounds of live pop and rock music. Song requests will be welcome!

When: April 4 | Contact: 02066886688 Where: Penthouze Nightlife, 13th Floor, Rooftop, Onyx Tower North Main Road, Koregaon Park, Pune

When: April 4 | Time: 8:00 to 10:30 pm Where: 11 East Street Cafe, East Street, Camp, Pune

Summer Camp Carnival CherryCrush and First Five join hands to bring you a camp, unlike any that has been witnessed before! Let your children experience a whole new world as a variety of professionals come together to make this summer a memorable one! They offer loads of activities to stimulate the mind in a warm and friendly environment, which allows kids to be themselves and begin their holidays with a bang. After all, that’s what vacations are for!

When: 11th to 19th April, 2014 | Contact: Uzma - 9822827000 or Dimple - 9890601812 Where: First Five Preschool, Bunglow A-16, Vidhyut Nagar Society, Lane 5, Off South Main Road, PUNE.

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