Pune Unltd. - 4

UNLTD. PEOPLE | FOOD | NIGHTLIFE | EVENTS | TRAVEL

May 16, 2014

Get FIFA-ready!

Pune’s Coolest Sports Bars

HUMOUR MaushinchePau’share’

Pune Inc.

Bizman with the beats!

Souls at Peace

Spiritual retreats near Pune Seal the deal!

Students’ guide to bargain hunting

INSIDE

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

EDITOR’S NOTE

It’s an oppressive summer for all…

This has been one of the hottest summers that I can remember. We’ve all been reeling under the effects of a pretty nasty summer. And, so have the animals. This world is now made for humans, and as a result, animals out in the open have nowhere to go to alleviate their suffering.

Thankfully, there are some humane humans amongst us who do care for these animals. We are indeed happy to highlight them and their efforts and call on you, dear reader, to do your bit.

“Thankfully, there are some humane humans amongst us who do care for these animals.

We are indeed happy to highlight them and their efforts and call on you, dear reader, to do your bit.” @adityakuber

While the heat will start to wind down in the next couple of weeks, it will bring with it rain… something we’ve already had a fair bit of! With the monsoon comes a completely new-look Pune… one that’s green, clean and less dusty. Unfortunately, our civic authorities are once again behind the curve and we may suffer. I urge you to share your problems and also some of the beauty of the monsoon with us and our other readers.

Finally, in our fourth issue, we are happy to share that we are growing steadily and are now read as far and wide as the UK, Singapore and even in Brazil! So thank you!

As always, please write to us at our email address or tweet us or drop us a line on Facebook.

Until next time…

hello@puneunltd.com Editors

Aditya Kuber Veethi Telang Apeksha Bhagchandani

Aditya Kuber

Contributors

Vedvrat Shikarpur Sapna Sarfare Sharan Garcha

Design

Prasanta Kundu Maddy Kulkarni Somnath Kulkarni

Marketing Anish Sohoni Rekha Achtani

Publisher

Media Sphere Communications Pvt. Ltd. www.mediasphere.co.in Photo: Peter Firminger lombi/Used under Creative Commons License

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IN THIS ISSUE Nightlife

9

#ActPune

11

No Longer Trafficked!

“Ugh! The traffic situation in this city is getting worse by the day!” has to be one of the most frequently used phrases by Punekars. But, in all honesty...

Humour

8 8

4

Maushinche Pau’share’ Twitterpanti

Pune’s Coolest Sports Bars With the IPL season in full swing, sports bars are finding a big foothold in our city. Pune has a number of sports bars for you to...

Cover Story

12

Fawning over it...

It’s not a difficult task to make Pune a heavenly haven for our chimnis, kabutars, kutras and other animal species who’re battling with the rising temperature on a daily basis. It’s time you did your part to...

Students’ Section

18

Seal the deal!

New to the city? Kick-starting a new semester? Renovating? Time to head out and go bargain hunting...

PUNE UNLTD.

Photo: Michael Korcuska Used under Creative Commons License

IN THIS ISSUE Heritage Watch

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Midnight Munchies

Hungry round the clock? Let us fix it for you. Pune has umpteen options for your starving stomach...

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Other Stories

06

Pune Express

Bizman with the beats!

Businessman by day, DJ by night‌ meet Ankit Goel , Director at Goel Ganga Developments. Despite managing a sprawling business...

Travel

10

26

Scor’d

20

Photo Feature

24

We are so enamoured by the superficial things around us that we are not even aware of the things that matter. In Pune, this is especially true when...

Pune Inc

Food

Discovering Heritage at the Gokhale Institute

Now Playing...

Souls at Peace

Away from the city chaos, heat and dust, is your chance to discover the divine aura that Pune emanates.

This weekend, experience the peaceful...

28

InstaPune

29

The Wonders of Water Workouts

30

Events

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5

PUNE EXPRESS

“Water” you doing for conservation?

The summers seem to have crossed all boundaries of harshness and Punekars have realised that this monsoon will experience even less rainfall than the previous year. With water issues, scorching weather and the fear of less rainfall, we asked Punekars about the steps they have taken to conserve water.

Omar Gull

Shyama Dutta

Head of Marketing, Kolte Patil Developers Ltd.

PR Director, Shelter Associates

One of the major things I do to conserve water is make sure all the faucets are closed properly and have no leakage. Since I don’t live with my family, the water consumption is on the lesser side.

But, I still ask my servant to just clean the house without water unless it’s absolutely necessary. I also make sure I use the water I used to wash clothes to clean the toilets. These may be pretty simple steps but in the long run, they really add up. Water conservation begins at home, after all.

Well, we could recycle the water that we use to wash vegetables for our gardens.

I also recommend a homemade drip irrigation solution.

Instead of using a shower for bathing, we should use buckets. This way, less water will be consumed and we can save enormous amount of water every day. Simple ways like this could be very effective as the situation of water in the city is only getting worse with each passing year.

Sheetha Nithin Maranoor

Debika Mitra

Image Manager, Perfect Relations

Image Manager, Perfect Relations

Thankfully, the society I stay in makes it a point to distribute water from 6am to 8am and 6pm to 8pm.

So, we make it a point to get the water stored in the tank and fill drinking water at that time. Also, the excess water that comes out from the RO system is not wasted.

We use it to get our clothes washed. It is just that the mineral content is higher. So, it can be used to wash clothes. The toilet flush uses five litres of water at once, which is again, a wastage. A simple thing that we do is to reduce the water mark in the flush to three litres. This helps us in saving at least two litres of water every time someone uses the washroom.

With rising temperatures and depleting green cover, conserving water has become the need of the hour. Some of the small ways in which I try to conserve water is by turning the tap off while brushing, washing clothes etc. I make sure I reuse the water which I use for washing clothes to water the plants and avoid using a shower for a bath. Summers are only getting harsher with each year passing by and so, it’s time we also started thinking about those who don’t get enough water to survive in this city.

We would love to know your views on the topic.

Write to us at hello@puneunltd.com

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PUNE UNLTD.

T20

CRICKET FEVER

is upon us

ORY ZZA Rice

and Mor e!

TM

get your cheer essentials!

Order during the evening match (between 8-11pm) &

get a Classic Oryzza Veg @ `120 & Non-Veg @ `150* Offer valid from 16th April - 1st June

Oryzzas now starting at `90 only

Upgrade your Oryzza, add BROWN RICE absolutely FREE!

West End Plaza, Nagras Road, Near Rawat Furniture, Aundh. *Conditions Apply: All orders must be placed between 8pm- 11pm. Offer cannot be combined with existing offers and combo packs. Not valid on Rajma Oryzza.

HUMOUR

Khuup time sun, ani some time rain.

Weather cha doka phiring. Still, all of you loka, pleez help muki janavara baraka, naitar no free limbu mirchi.

Give dogs some biskoot, keep some water on terrace for pakshi. Me tumchi jashi kalji taking, they dont have konich. Jara Pleez!

Twitterpanti Adi @Reviewero In my many years in Pune I saw faces of only 3 girls.

They probably couldn’t afford a scarf.

E-tard @14_yr_old_Etard While the Americans use big terms like Social Security Number, Credit Rating and Reference Check we Indians go by just one word: Aukat

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Ra_Bies @Ra_Bies This election has been longer than: -IPL tournament -Jodha Akbar -Kanoon ke haath - Vadra’s quest for land

Shreyas @TheNaique Men have a dirty mind because they don’t change it as often as women do.

PUNE UNLTD.

NIGHTLIFE

Pune’s Coolest Sports Bars With the IPL season in full swing, sports bars are finding a big foothold in our city. Pune has a number of sports bars for you to enjoy a game with your friends. Read up on!

Sapna Sarfare

T

oday, eating out is an experience in itself. And, in that light, we have all kinds of joints to cater to the demands of the ever-hungry Punekars. One of the trends is that of sports bars, allowing you to enjoy any game they want to watch and gorge on some chow.

The hot favourite among the many sports bars in Pune has to be the Manchester United Café Bar in Amanora Town Centre (and a nightmare for Arsenal fans, might I add). From finger food to Continental and North Indian, this café has its all. Sports lovers swear by this cool hangout as they can enjoy live telecast of matches. Even the ones that don’t fancy sports can come at this casual all-day dining bar for their lip-smacking multi-cuisine food. With the FIFA World Cup round the corner, why not Photo Courtesy: www.facebook.com/ManUtdCB head to this one and have an amazing time with your pals? GGMU! Replay Sports Bar at Baner is the newest name added to the list. The bar has made sure that sports fans are at ease, with two huge televisions and a projector. Enjoy delicious North Indian, Chinese and, Continental in particular, which is clearly their speciality. While you enjoy the music, courtesy an in-house DJ, the indoor and outdoor sitting arrangements ensure that you have a good time with your pals.

Cricketer Zaheer Khan is known for his restaurant ZKs or Zaheer Khan’s Dine Fine in Lulla Nagar and Phoenix Market City. The sport aspect does come in with the memorabilia and huge TVs to watch matches. They have also started Toss, a sports lounge, within the Lulla Nagar premise. Enjoy a hi-tech sound system and huge screens to watch any sports game you like. There is the good old sports memorabilia from all sports, along with cricket photographs. Cool, isn’t it?

Hop over to Atmosphere 6 at Viman Nagar. Although not a sports bar, you can catch absolutely any game here, right from football, cricket, boxing, American football to F1 and even Motorcycling! Students vouch for this place due to the fact that it’s in proximity to their colleges.

The newly opened Hoppipola in Aundh has found regular customers, thanks to its quirky settings and the fact that you can watch games on the big screens.

A bar serves good drinks to team with bite-sized food. Unwind with friends and enjoy the games for it’s one of the most budget friendly places around.

Toons and Mocha on Senapati Bapat Road, though not your typical sports bars, find sports lovers from all corners of Pune, thanks to their ambience and television screens.

Atmosphere 6

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So, for the next IPL match, you know where to head to, don’t you?

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SCOR’D Film

Mastram

Film

Didn’t quite meet expectations but worth watching once.

Restaurant

Hyderabadi Menu @ Zambar

Soul-stirring film with superb cinematography!

Pub The

Great ambience but no big deal

Book

The Guardian Angels by Rohit Gore

A beautiful love story with great narrative!

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Ajoba

Irish House

Lively with amazing finger food!

Book

nce Upon the Tracks of O Mumbai by Rishi Vohra

A relatable read with wonderful character sketch.

PUNE UNLTD.

No Longer Trafficked!

#ACTPUNE

“Ugh! The traffic situation in this city is getting worse by the day!” has to be one of the most frequently used phrases by Punekars. But, in all honesty, is there a way to improve it? After reading this article, you’ll know there is.

Vedvrat Shikarpur

D

riving to work every day seems like a task in itself! With heavy traffic and the pressure of reaching the workplace on time, most drivers tend to be rash and pushy, changing lanes too frequently and doing everything possible in a bid to get ahead as fast as possible. Almost every morning, around 9 am, the vehicles on the road swell in number, only increasing with each passing minute. While we all ask questions like, “Why can’t the traffic situation in the city get better?”, “When will people ever learn to drive properly?” or “When will Pune get better roads?”, the real question we should ask ourselves is, “What can I do to change the present traffic situation in the city?”.

Opting for public transport is an equally big hassle. So, the only way out seems like carpooling. Instead of two people driving to the same destination in two different vehicles, why not use just one instead? Carpooling has various benefits; reduction of the number of vehicles on road, sharing fuel costs helps economically and there is lesser fuel consumption and, most importantly, it helps reduce the carbon footprint in the city. A city-based startup, ‘Let’s Ride’, is working on similar lines, encouraging carpooling in the city.

The founder, Rajkumar Mundel, is an ex-IT professional, who quit his job to start this social initiative. Along with him are Praveen Mane and Averi Pal Choudhury, all of whom have an experience of over 5 years in the field of Information Technology. Let’s Ride is a free social platform created to find matching rides and begin taking on the daily journey together. Their motto is “Connect-Commute-Change’. Let’s Ride also gives the users a chance to know each other and connect before going ahead with carpooling.

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The website, launched on 23rd September 2013, has over 2000 registered users who share rides. To handle security issues, they allow the option of reviews, where users can comment on their experience as #good or #bad. They explain that trust issue is the primary concern for people when opting for carpooling with an unknown person and, connecting users through social media could change that. Thus, Let’s Ride also gives the option of looking into a fellow rider’s profile, which has all the information about the person, his/her ride-sharing network, etc.

Being part of Let’s Ride is very simple. It takes just 5 steps to start sharing a ride: Sign up for www.letsride.in Fill your Daily Commute Details (it takes just 30 secs and helps you to get connected to people from Same Area or Same Company or Same Interest) Search your route. e.g. “Aundh to Hinjewadi” to get matches of people travelling from Aundh to Hinjewadi, Pune.

Pick from any of the matches and “Follow” the person.

Send a Private Message with more details and Share a Ride.

For any more queries or inputs, Punekars can get in touch with the team at team@letsride.in So, do you think this initiative could bring about a change in the gruesome traffic situation of the city? We sure do.

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11

Fawning over it...

It’s not a difficult task to make Pune a heavenly haven for our chimnis, kabutars, kutras and other animal species who’re battling with the rising temperature on a daily basis. It’s time you did your part to contribute for the happiness and safety of our furry pals in the city.

Team Pune Unltd.

I

t’s only getting worse. The heat, the dehydration and, the depletion of green cover. Temperature is increasing and rainfall is decreasing with each passing year. We, the helpless citizens, complain and complain and, embrace yet another summer. Tell a newly relocated person that Pune was once a hill station and they’d not believe you.

At the average temperature of 40 degrees, it’s comparatively easier for us humans to devise newer ways to beat the heat. But, what about the animals and bird species in the city? After all, they’re Punekars too! Reminisce the times of wadas and bungalows with sprawling woods, green tekdis, wonderful baugs and cleaner ponds. Animals and birds couldn’t have found a better home. But, as urbanisation took over and Pune changed over the years, our animal companions gradually lost their habitat. Imagine a crow searching for that one drop of water to quench its thirst. Or, a stray dog hunting for a shade to combat the scorching heat. It’s heart-wrenching to see

the animals wage a daily war with the heat and struggle just to survive and get through the day. What can we do?

What should we do? Read up on.

Get in touch with NGOs If you want to get involved with helping animals, there’s a lot you can do. The best way is to go with established groups and organisations. Here are some you could start with right away.

The Blue Cross Society, Pune is quite a name in this field. Active in giving care, help and shelter to animals in trouble, they are not averse to going out of their way to reach those who call for help either. If you think a stray or any animal needs assistance, call them and they can even help with hospitalisation and medicare.

The People for Animals or PFA, Pune is another trustworthy option. They specialise in helping animals in dis-

Photo: Anant Nath Sharma Used under Creative Commons License

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PUNE UNLTD.

COVER STORY

Photo Courtesy: Deccan Gymkhana Animal Welfare Group

tress. Usually, they come across two to three cases of bird dehydration, but in summers, the number rises up to eight or even nine. Summers are a busy time for them to help out all animals with dehydration being the biggest problem faced. More than 10,000 Punekars are in touch with PFA. One can approach them via their website to know more and get involved.

khana Animal, has around 12-15 members from varied backgrounds working towards helping sterilise stray dogs and help injured animals. Till date, they have sterilised 380 dogs, vaccinated about 120 per year, treated the rescued injured stray dogs with proper medical care

ResQ Charitable Trust has earned respect in and around Pune University, Khadki, Deccan, Kothrud, Pashan and Baner. Apart from treating animals, they also help with vaccination, and adoption of stray cats and dogs. One can approach them if you see any cat or dog suffering in the heat as well. ssssMost of us would know about PETA, thanks to their high-decibel PR efforts. Despite being based in Mumbai, approaching them is possible for Punekars, if they find an animal in trouble. They will also help you with guidelines to see that the right method is used to save animals. You can approach them through their website which is quite active in responding to SOS calls.

Animal lovers from the city recently joined hands to build the Pune Federation of Animal Protection Organisations or PFAPO. This is where all NGOs and animal lovers come together to help animals in need. It is an excellent way to think of ideas and projects which will benefit distressed animals. They have also tied up with local mohalla committees to make sure that their projects reach every nook and corner.

One of the projects they are working on currently is the water bowl project with the Deccan Gymkhana Parisar Samiti (DGPS). Their internal unit, Deccan Gym-

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Photo Courtesy: Deccan Gymkhana Animal Welfare Group

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COVER STORY of restoration, they have a new mission to provide birdhouses to birds that were displaced due to urbanization. With this in mind, they thought of providing small spaces terraces, balconies, and gardens in homes for small birds like sparrows that nest in small cavities or artificial nest boxes.

Photo Courtesy: Deccan Gymkhana Animal Welfare Group

and helped with adoption as well.

Continuing with their efforts, they have put concrete water bowls near tea stalls, general shops or wherever animals can access it. People around these bowls ensure there is water in the bowls regularly. You can approach DGPS on Facebook to lend a hand. For PFAPO, one can either go through major animal welfare organisations or NGOS or through Federation of Indian Animal Protection Organisations or FIAPO. Another committee to be involved with PFAPO is the Kalyani Nagar Resident’s Association.

Bluewiss, a Pune-based organisation that helps people enrich the natural environment and promote a sustainable way of living, was founded on the principle of Conserve, Restore and Rejoice. Taking forward their goal

It is with this objective that Bluewiss launched “Mission 10,000 Birdhouses” for Pune, one of the biggest citizen-driven initiatives to enrich the urban biodiversity. In a year’s time, they hope that at least 10,000 concerned citizens will put up a birdhouse in their homes and do their bit in restoring the lost biodiversity in their areas.

By buying a Bluewiss Birdhouse one can contribute to restore some of the lost biodiversity in one’s area. Along with the Birdhouse they even encourage one to grow native and food giving trees. In this way, the bio-diversity need not only depend on humans for its survival, but an ecosystem is created for all life forms to coexist.

With most of us active on WhatsApp, we can use the app to discover groups who are into helping animals nearby.

Areas like Baner, Pashan and Aundh have their animal-friendly WhatsApp group where they get together for help, right from animal rescue, to making sure they are hydrated and even medical treatment. You can also visit the mailing list of Pune Animal Lovers or PAL, on Yahoo! Groups to join them.

In addition to those listed above, the National Society of Clean Cities Pune and the Katraj Snake Park are

Photo: Marcus Ward Used under Creative Commons License

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PUNE UNLTD.

COVER STORY active in helping animals. There is also an interesting initiative by the Prani Seva Sanstha, located at Market Yard.

One can donate food items like milk, curd, rice, wheat, pedigree and so on, apart from money to help the animals. One can contact them at praniseva@yahoo.com.

With so many options, there is no reason to not help animals anymore. Pick an organisation and let’s get started

Set up a bird feeder at home How it should be: An ideal bird feeder should be big enough to store food for birds and has enough space for the bird to perch on. You can hang the dish or have a small slab installed to place the feeder.

Ideal locations: Any verandah, backyard, gallery or a spot in your society that has minimum human activity is perfect for placing a bird feeder. Make sure it’s somewhere with green surroundings and on a slightly elevated spot, so that the birds feel safe from predators like cats and dogs.

Ideal Food: Seeds, matki, toor dal, sunflower seeds, cracked corn or grains. Avoid feeding them bread, chocolate and table scraps.

it’s better to set up two or three bird feeders across your society instead of just a big one.

… or, a bird bath.

How it should be: A big bowl or a plastic container that can store water. Ensure that it is not too deep. Rarely do you find birds as intelligent and hardworking as the crow who put pebbles in the water jug to relinquish its thirst. Well, you get the idea.

Ideal locations: Similar to the locations for bird feeders. A perfect set up place would be closer to the feeder.

P.S.: Birds need water not just for drinking but also to have a soothing dip. Ensure the bowl is large enough for sparrows, crows and even owls! Don’t forget to refill the bowl with fresh water on a daily basis.

For animals like kharutai (squirrel) that normally do not venture close to humans, a water bowl placed in your porch is a great idea. Place a bowl of peanuts alongside and you’ll be surprised! On the other hand, make it a habit to feed your society’s cats and dogs regularly. You could also leave a bowl of water and some food on your porch or garage.

P.S.: The bird feeder should not have sharp edges. Also,

Photo: NatJLN Used under Creative Commons License

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PUNE UNLTD.

PUNE INC.

Bizman with the beats!

Businessman by day, DJ by night… meet Ankit Goel , Director at Goel Ganga Developments. Despite managing a sprawling business, he makes time for his passion, Lab* Monkeys, and chances are, you’ve grooved to his beats recently.

Veethi Telang

D

hik-chik-dhik-chik-dhik-chik-dhik-chik…t’s a never-ending loop! Visit The Penthouze, Miami or Kue Bar on a Saturday night and you’ll go back home with the beats stuck in your head. Pune-based disc jockeys are leaving no stone unturned in ensuring you have an amazing time with your pals as you dance the night away! Being a hardcore Electronic Dance Music fanatic, I got a chance to connect with Ankit Goel, resident DJ at The Penthouze. Here are excerpts from our conversation:

V: How should a DJ go about spreading quality music across the globe as opposed to its “commercial” counterpart?

A: Again, just keep sharing and share it for free if you don’t need to make money from your music. You can’t stop someone from listening to what they like. So if it’s commercial, they’re going to listen to that and, if it’s your music, they’re going to listen to that.

Veethi: How and when did you start out as a Disc Jockey?

Ankit: I learned the rules of the art when I was 16, but I started out much later, at the age of 20.

V: How has Electronic Dance Music influenced you?

A: Well, it works vice-versa. I’m trying to influence it, the way it’s influencing me. I started off with the commercial side of EDM which the common listener has access to.

Slowly, as I’ve been discovering my style, I am trying to implement the sounds in my head which will make a difference and, influence the EDM industry.

V: What equipment are you currently using?

A: I use the industrial standard equipment, the Pioneer CDJ 2000’s and DJM 900, a pen-drive with all my music on it and a pair of headphones. Earlier, I would make CDs at that time. But, it’s all about the digital and MIDI counterparts now!

V: What are your thoughts on the current music scene in Pune? Do you think Pune can emerge as a city that promotes underground music by local artists?

A: Pune is doing really well, probably better than most of the cities in India at the moment. But you know, everything reaches a peak and then the bubble bursts; sooner or later, the commercial will be out and underground will be in.

V: How do you think is the best way to promote local artists?

A: Keep sharing! Music is all about sharing.

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V: Indian Trance music has definitely evolved over the years. What, according to you, inspired this change in the taste of Indian music listeners?

A: I was never a part of the Goa Trance era. In fact, I was never even aware of what Electronic Music was, back then. But, what has really changed the taste of Indian Music listeners are the big festivals happening around the world. They look like a bigger picture and a crazy time. Sadly, I think there’s no value to them. The music has become bland. It’s same no matter what artist they feature.

V: Last but not the least, what are your future plans?

Any original releases slated for this year?

A: I’m just setting up a new studio at the moment and the next big plan is to get the Native Instruments: Maschine.

It’s a groove box which would help me incorporate live sets while I DJ on the stage. This is going to be a lot of hard work and practice but I’m super excited for this.

Honestly, I’m a bigger fan of production, but DJing is a different kick itself. So, I’m just going to combine both!

To answer your second question, no releases in the pipeline yet. Not really chasing the ‘getting my records signed’ dream. I have a bigger picture which I’ll unfold when it’s the right time.

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17

Seal the deal!

New to the city? Kick-starting a new semester? Renovating? Time to head out and go bargain hunting for essentials you will need for this new chapter of life.

Sharan Garcha

F

or many, higher education may involve moving away from their home for the first time. It’s a secure environment where you are used to having your parents running around for any little essential you may need or want doesn’t exist when you start living on your own. Moving away from home can be an expensive affair, especially for those who are completely unaware of where they can buy essential household items that give them the required quality and value for money.

So, wouldn’t choosing the cheapest option be a good idea for starters? You can catch up on the quality later.

Doesn’t matter if you’re kicking off a new semester, relocated to Pune recently or simply, looking to refurbish your living room, here are Pune’s cheapest shopping destinations to splash out on!

Juna Bazaar Juna Bazaar, is basically a street market that is opera-

Photo: Mubarak Ansari Used under Creative Commons License

18

tional only on Wednesdays and Sundays. It is located beside Veer Tanaji Ghorpade road in Kasba Peth, Pune.

Here you can buy or sell any usable second hand products in a price suitable as per the product’s condition.

This is a market hidden away from the grasps of time.

Once you step into it, you will see that it has a lot to offer; from metal antiques, wooden art, vintage collectibles, shoes, accessories, travelling bags, home utensils, shiny junk, weights for gymming, furniture, instruments and appliances, old knick knacks and much more. Although the market is on the side of a busy road, the market is always crowded with the shoppers making it a bustling flea market. The key to survival in the market is to know how to bargain to get the value for your money. Also using the local transport is better for newbies who’re unaware of the routes. All in all, Juna Bazaar makes sure you return home satisfied with a truckload of household items.

Laxmi Road Laxmi Road is the heart of Pune, starting at Alka Talkies Square and running right through the old city, with an overall length of 4 kilometers. It is one of the oldest and largest shopping destinations in the city, making it the busiest commercial street of Pune. It is closed on Mondays and during afternoons on all days. Apart from the narrow side streets, the market houses numerous number of stores offering you a variety of household products, garments, exquisite jewellery, accessories and much more. The two well-known publishing houses Nirali and Manali Prakashan are also situated on Laxmi Road. So, while shopping for your household essentials you can also get your textbooks, notebooks and stationary at almost half the actual price on the very same street. Shopping on Laxmi Road is a delight for lovers of retail therapy. Also there would be hardly any Punekar who doesn’t visit Laxmi Road to buy things at affordable prices at any given festival or occasion.

PUNE UNLTD.

STUDENTS’ SECTION Tulsi Baug Tulsi baug is the noisiest but the most happening and

receiving your shopped item directly at your doorstep in just a few days is attractive enough, don’t you think?

There are two amazing options for online shopping: OLX and Sulekha.

OLX is a free classifieds Ad site, which provides local services and gives you good bargain offers while buying things online. In a very short span of time OLX India had got a huge popularity and millions of buyers and sellers have joined this site because of their amazing offers and services. It has grown rapidly in the marketplace of buying and selling things no matter old or new. If you are looking for big discounts or bargains for any electronic gadget or household product, you will be amazed with the offers posted on the site. You should be updated with this site as there are a number of new products being listed daily. So, don’t miss the chance! http://www.olx.in/

Photo: Shankar S. Used under Creative Commons License

crowded market area in the city. This market is home to traditional and modern cooking items, household goods, jewellery and cosmetics. It can be accessed via three entrances – from Laxmi Road, Bajirao Road and the road connecting Shanipar to Chhatrapati Shivaji Road. Tulsi Baug is one of the most preferred shopping areas among students and middle class due to the availability of all household items at low and affordable prices. You can also get fresh fruits, vegetables and flowers here. The key to shopping here is that the more you bargain the better!

And, of course, if you can’t find enough items at the above-mentioned areas, online shopping is your best bet! The innumerable choices, the return policy, and

Alternately, Sulekha is another website anchored around multiple consumer needs. It integrates Local Search, Classifieds and Ecommerce services, enhanced by member blogs, answers, reviews and ratings in these marketplaces: Property, Cars, Home Needs, Office Needs, Education/Training, Lifestyle, Movies, Gadgets, Travel, Eatouts, Buy/Sell, Deals. Whether you want to buy a used television or refrigerator, or rent a flat, Sulekha is easily the best portal to look through! http://www.sulekha.com/ From kurta-clad film students to suited and booted management aspirants, Pune is home to several reputed universities that draw students from over 90 different streams of study. With the gregarious nature of the city, settling down here will be much easier than you would imagine. Shopping is a delightful experience in Pune, right from the flea markets to high-end shopping malls.

Photo: Shankar S. Used under Creative Commons License

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PHOTO FEATURE

Ü

Queen of the woods!

The Changeable Hawk-Eagle perched on a tree at Sinhagad.

Photographer: Rohan Joshi

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Nature never goes out of style. Clicked near Tamhini Ghat.

Photographer: Abhijeet Kulkarni

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PHOTO FEATURE

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The old days are beautiful, when you realize the power of memories.

Photographer: Kaiwalya Rangari

Û

The raging bulls seen at a traditional Bullock Race in Khadaki, Junnar.

Photographer: Sudesh Adkar

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FOOD

Midnight Munchies Hungry round the clock? Let us fix it for you. Pune has umpteen options for your starving stomach, regardless of what time it is. Go ahead, choose.

Veethi Telang

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magine this – you’re out with your friends. Drinking and dancing. Starters are many but, not enough to satiate your hunger. What to eat after the party’s over? Go back home and cook? LOL, yes, sure! Why cook inebriated when you can have someone else to do it for you? Our beloved city has a number of places that cater to the hungry during the wee hours. So, when the clock strikes 12 and the fun’s over, you know what to do.

Pune Station/Pune Airport Of course! College students vouch for the bun maska and chai and the hungry can’t get enough of the delish egg bhurji and scrambled eggs at the station. Walk by the many stalls and take your pick! Within the station cam-

CO2 – Live the Smoke, Bavdhan Pool, hookah and cocktails! This awesome lounge doesn’t shut until 4 am in the morning. The psychedelic ambience and moderately-priced food are easily the USP of this place. Do try the delicious cheese maggi priced at just 50 bucks! Can it get any better?

Latitude - Vivanta By Taj, Koregaon Park Not a fan of quick fixes? How about a midnight buffet?

Yes! When you’re famished to death, the midnight buffet at Latitude – Vivanta by Taj in Koregaon Park is the place to be. The many food options can satiate the hunger of even the most voracious eaters. It might be a little too harsh on your wallet but, what’s a few more bucks after a lavish party? Well, you get the idea.

Nitefoodie.com For our nocturnal Punekars who stay up at night for no reason, Pune’s very own midnight food delivery service, Nitefoodie, lets you order low-cost food online between 8pm to 4am. Payment options include Cash On Delivery, Netbanking, Credit/Debit Card and even Sodexho passes. They take no longer than 30 minutes to deliver your food! Do try their mouthwatering Oreo milkshake for just 69/- and Chicken sandwich at 129/-! And, the best thing?

So, Punekars, looks like we’re all sorted for the night! Go ahead, party all you can. It won’t be wrong to say that your food is right around the corner.

Photo: Shankar S. Used under Creative Commons License

pus is Comesum, a 24-hour food joint, always packed with travelers. For that midnight snack at a decent budget, this place is your best bet. Alternately, if you’re partying somewhere around Viman Nagar, the airport café is another cheap option to surfeit your appetite. For nights when your hunger pangs are making you go crazy, these greasy-yet-lip-smacking dishes are the ultimate answer.

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Photo Courtesy: Nightfoodie.com

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HERITAGE WATCH

Discovering Heritage at the Gokhale Institute We are so enamoured by the superficial things around us that we are not even aware of the things that matter. In Pune, this is especially true when it comes to our heritage. One of the gems which is not much looked at is the Gokhale Institute of Politics and Economics.

Sapna Sarfare

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he Gokhale Institute of Politics and Economics was one of the most talked-about subjects at the Heritage Festival 2014 that happened during April 13 - April 20. Organised by Virasat, a venture of Janwani and Pune Municipal Corporation to promote the city’s heritage, the tour showed us a place steeped in history, from its pre-launch days to date.

Did you know, the Gokhale Institute was established by the Servants of India society and named after the legendary Gopal Krishna Gokhale, a leading name in socio-political field in the independence struggle?

Apart from the usual demands of freedom, his focus was on social reforms which would enable Indians to grow better. Gokhale carried forward the reforms and ideas of Justice Mahadev Govind Ranade and, it can be seen in the words written on the institute’s main building which also has a part of the library. This is one of the best libraries for Economics and also has a hall that hosted government-related debates. You can also find rare copies of the books and population census. There is a new library building called Dhananjay Rao Gadgil Library.

Gokhale was the political guru of both Mahatma Gandhi and Mohammed Ali Jinnah. His popularity spread from Bengal and Assam to Pakistan, Mauritius and further.

His backing to the Indentured Labour Bill was passed and had effect worldwide. It was recognised everywhere.

Thanks to his help during the partition of Bengal, he is revered in those parts. In fact, it’s surprising to know that his first biography after his death came from Assam. His

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popularity in Pakistan increased due to Jinnah and in fact, on the institute’s campus, one can find the place where Jinnah stayed during his visits. It is right besides Gokhale’s house which still has a lot of old photographs and furniture. Gandhi’s early struggles and efforts were supported by Gokhale, both ideologically and financially.

Gandhi had visited the institute only after Gokhale’s death. One of Gokhale’s wishes was that Gandhi take up the work for Servants of India forward. In fact, the initial funding of the Sabarmati Ashram came from Gokhale’s help. His research came handy to Gandhi’s struggles in South Africa against the British, in the Smutts Pact. One can say that he laid the foundation for what Gandhi did later during the freedom struggle.

While walking on the campus of the institute, you will notice a huge banyan tree which has been there even before the institute came in place. The Gokhale institute became the foundation for economics and has done pioneering work in the field.

One can avail of the facilities of the library for a nominal amount and, the wide number of courses offered is quite intriguing. Apart from the large green campus, another piece of history can be found on the Fergusson tekdi behind it where a column was erected for the Servants of India members to take their oaths. Now, more modernisation efforts are taking place, with newer buildings and more courses. There are efforts to reach people with special talks and workshops. This article might be a small wake-up call for what holds on in that building called the Gokhale Institute of Politics and Economics.

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NOW PLAYING...

Pune’s culture is rich and prominent across the world. As we take pride in it, we decided to run you through the best theatres and halls in Pune where you can enjoy nataks and dances‌!

Vedvrat Shikarpur

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une is the cultural capital of Maharashtra, and the major reason for the city earning this tag is its background in arts and theatre. The culture of the city lays emphasis on language, arts and

crafts, music, dance and theatre. However, most citizens remain oblivious to this aspect, the major reason being the unavailability of information about places that host such cultural events. So, why not soak up all the information on the places across Pune that are well-known for being hosts to art exhibitions, plays, stage shows, music and dance performances?

Bal Gandharva Rang Mandir Named after the great performer who brought Sangeet nataks to prominence, Bal Gandharva is located on one

Where: JM Road, Pune-04 Contact: 020-25532959

of the busiest junctions of JM Road. Despite the commo-

Tilak Smarak Mandir

tion of traffic outside, the place is peacefully serene, lit

The theatre, dedicated to the noted Indian freedom

up only by the sounds of musical instruments, singers, ghungroos, dialogues of noted actors and the claps and chants of the audience. They always host exhibitions that help provide a platform for photographers, artistes and others, and is always flocked by passionate art lovers.

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fighter Bal Gangadhar Tilak, is reputed among art lovers, theatre groups and dance and music lovers alike.

It plays host to the most renowned cultural events in the city and, the auditorium is known to the audiences for selling tickets at reasonable rates. Tilak Smarak also hold exhibitions on a regular basis.

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ENTERTAINMENT Where: Lokmanya Nagar, Tilak Road, Sadashiv Peth, Pune-30 Contact: 020-24339005

Yashwantrao Chavan Natya Gruha Well-known for its air-conditioned halls, comfortable seats and well, their wada pav and tea, this theatre is named after Maharashtra’s first Chief Minister. Although the seating capacity of the auditorium is small compared to others, it is prominent for hosting various plays, musical and dance events by artists that are famous across the world. Sometimes, the place also hosts exhibitions in the public area, where patrons are seen enjoying their snack during intervals of events.

Where: Near Shivaji Putala, Karve Road, Kothrud, Pune-29 Contact: 020-25395232, 020-25390042

Bharat Natya Sanshodhodhan Mandal Bharat Natya has over 100 years of history and its founding members played a key role in not just reviving Marathi nataks, but also in creating an atmosphere where they could be enjoyed. The place still retains its old-world charm and the interiors are as artistic as the events they play host to. They recently renovated the place, having installed air-conditioners, new chairs and a better sound system. So, make sure you attend their next event!

Ganesh Kala Krida has a large seating capacity and also has a parking space of its own (though most two-wheelers seldom find a place to park within the premises).

The sound system here is great and the hall is spacious, being a perfect place for hosting grand events.

Where: Near Swargate Bus Station, Swargate, Pune-42

Where: Perugate, Sadashiv Peth, Pune-30

Contact: 020-24447712

Contact: 020-24481614

Ganesh Kala Krida Manch The auditorium is known for hosting some of the biggest events in Pune, the Pune Festival being the major one.

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Souls at Peace

Away from the city chaos, heat and dust, is your chance to discover the divine aura that Pune emanates.

This weekend, experience the peaceful, tranquil and spiritual retreat of the temples at a short distance away from your home.

Sharan Garcha

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n inimitable aspect of Pune is the abundance of its cultural spaces, scenic beauty and its rich heritage. How often do you get a chance to experience this aspect in your busy schedule where you are constantly running around with no time for yourself? This time, step out and use the opportunity to head out of Pune on the weekend and treat yourself to a spiritual rejuvenation instead of the usual getaways this summer. Here’s your chance to spend some uninterrupted time with nature around you, as a respite from the noise and pollution of city life.

JEJURI Distance About 51 km

About Escape to Khandobachi Jejuri, an enchanting place – full of myths, paradoxes and spell-binding tribal traditions. As you walk up the hillock of Jejuri, you will find yellow clouds of turmeric wafting in the air and softly landing on the 200 stone steps that lead you to Khandoba, the lord of the tribals. Jejuri is the abode of the lord of the oldest tribes in Maharashtra, the Dhangars. An upright and valiant community of shepherds, one of the main visual attractions of Jejuri is the deepmaala or the garland of lights. There are two of them; tall, vertical columns carved in black stone. When lit up all at once on a moonless night, the shimmering flood of light created by these stone garlands is enough to rival the molten gold of Photo: Anant Rohankar Used under Creative Commons License turmeric that forever adorns the steps of Jejuri. Khandoba has an interesting martial symbol, called the Divti. It is shaped like a dagger, but doubles up as a lamp. When lit up, it looks like a flaming dagger; a symbol of light that slays darkness.

Getting there You can either drive down to Jejuri via Saswaad Road or take a bus or the train.

CHINTAMANI ASHTAVINAYAK TEMPLE Distance: About 25 km

Photo: Borayin Maitreya Larios Used under Creative Commons License

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About: The term ‘Ashtavinayak’ is widely used to describe the renowned pilgrimage tour of the eight temples that are scattered across Maharashtra. Sri Chintamani Temple of Theur is the 5th of Ashtavinayak Temples. Each and every temple in the Ashtavinayak has its own individual and distinct legend and local history. Every Hindu makes it a point to visit the Eight Temples of Ashtavinayak at least once in their lifetime to attain a life of everlasting bliss and fortune. The most interesting fact that binds all these temples together is that they are Swayambhu – self originated.

The idols weren’t made by man and it is also believed that PUNE UNLTD.

TRAVEL Lord Ganpati himself is manifested in each of these places. Lord Ganesha as Chintamani is God who brings his devotees their peace of mind and drives away their perplexities. The temple has beautiful architecture that has been upheld and renovated over the 400 years of its existence. The idol in the temple faces towards the East and has a left side trunk and diamonds in the eyes.

Getting there You can either take the S.T. Bus from Sarasbaug or Pulgate or, take your own vehicle to visit this temple.

BHULESHWAR TEMPLE Distance About 55 km

About Bhuleshwar is a temple that is sure to leave an indelible impression on one’s mind. It was constructed by the Pandava dynasty, way back in the 13th century. The temple was once within a fort, the remnants of which are visible in the vicinity.

The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva. In the temple are also housed the idols of Goddess Lakshmi, Lord Vishnu and Lord Mahadev. The exquisite stonework and sculptures insight the temple are a sight to behold! It is said that all the sweets offered to the Lord Shiva by the devotees disappear almost Photo: Olof Werngren immediately, no matter what the amount offered! The idol Used under Creative Commons License of Ganesha in this temple has a female form, which makes the Bhuleshwar temple the only one temple in the world to have such an idol. Tawny eagles are said to migrate here from the north during summer and act as an added treat for the bird watchers.

Getting there You can take the bus or travel by your own vehicle as the temple is well connected via the road network. You can also visit the nearby Mayureshwar Wildlife sanctuary while spending time at this architectural masterpiece.

BALAJI TEMPLE Distance About 45 km

About If you haven’t got a chance to visit Lord Shri Venkateshwara Temple at Tirupati Devasthanam, here is your chance to visit its magnificent replica built very close to Pune. Picturesque verdant hills topped by dense cumulus clouds and mist surround the 10 acres of flat land, on which stands the abode of the Lord in the Sahyadri. The temple structure is very reminiscent of many South Indian temples. The temple is located in a scenic place, far away from the maddening urban crowds, allowing visitors the luxury of being swept up in tranquillity.

Photo: A C The stone sculpture of the original Tirumala -Tirupati Temple Used under Creative Commons License has been mimicked in wood and painted in Grey oil paint. The temple is very well maintained, organised and clean. The ambience of the temple builds a serene atmosphere giving the devotees the feeling of being secure and peaceful.

Gettin There You can take a direct bus from Swargate or take your own vehicle and hit the road to reach the pilgrimage centre.

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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!

@harshitsoni

@vedvrat

@aishwarya_buge

@veethitelang

@batchness

@apeksha84

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Photo: Michael Korcuska Used under Creative Commons License

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The Wonders of Water Workouts

GET FIT

Looking for a reason to take a dip in the pool? Look no further, as we tell you why you should try aqua workouts to help stay fit and cool down this summer...

Vedvrat Shikarpur

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qua workouts involves performing your regular exercises in shallow water. This does not mean swimming; the water level is usually around the waistline. If you’re wondering why we recommend aqua workouts which is doing all the usual exercises that you can definitely do without being in a pool, here are a few benefits that may change your mind:

Anyone can do them

Aqua Zumba ÎÎ Solaris Platinum , Near Kundan Garden M angal Karyalay, Opposite LG Show room, Near Food Bazaar, Baner Road , Baner, Pune-45

As I mentioned, aqua workout is not similar to swimming. Hence, even non-swimmers can perform it. Plus, the water adds resistance and buoyancy, meaning, performing the same exercises in water will give better results.

Timing: Sunday, 10

The variety is endless

Aqua Aerobics

There are many great options for exercising in the water, even something as simple as jogging. There are various forms of aqua workouts like water weight training, water yoga, aqua aerobics, aqua Zumba, etc. Also, sporting activities like dodge ball in a pool can be fun and help you get fit at the same time.

They’re refreshing A soothing dip in the water, especially when the summer heat is at its peak, is relaxing and helps you feel good throughout the day. Water exercises have a similar effect, so instead of feeling exhausted, you’ll be refreshed and active after a workout.

No more sore muscles

am to 11 am

ÎÎ Club Solaris bran ches in Baner, Wanowrie, Kalyani Nagar, Pimpale Saudagar, Karve Ro ad and Kothrud. ÎÎ O Hotel, North Main Road, Koregaon Park, Pu ne-01 Timing: Wednesday and Friday; 7 am to 8 am ÎÎ Abs Fitness and Wellness Club, Top Floor, ICC Towe rs, B Wing, Senapati Bapat Road, Pu ne-16

Thanks to the buoyancy of water, you can improve your cardiovascular fitness without subjecting your body to additional wear and tear. Thus, it is perfect to strengthen muscles without putting a lot of stress on your joints. This means, aqua workouts are perfect for those recovering from injuries, those with arthritis and muscle pain, mothers-to-be or recent mommies.

Improve endurance and flexibility As most of your body weight is supported by water, performing exercise becomes easier.

Plus, the addition of water endurance means you can not only lift heavier weights, you will be burning more calories by lifting the same weight. It also helps relax sore muscles, eases stiff joints and gives better mobility and flexibility to your joints.

You lose weight quicker I’ve already stressed a lot on how aqua workouts help you burn more and exercise better. All this can only mean one thing - you lose weight faster compared to doing the same on land. And, you won’t just be losing weight! You tone your muscles as well, giving your body the perfect shape!

For Punekars, here’s the best part. The unreliable electricity means no ACs and, the fans just do not get the job done when its 40 degree Celsius outside.

So, why not take a dip and come back cool, relaxed, fit and happy. That’s a winwin, isn’t it?

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EVENTS Street Foods of the World Festival Novotel Pune brings the sumptuous Street flavours under one roof - at The Square restaurant. Signature street foods from around the world have been recreated by Chef Amit Chand, Executive Chef, Novotel Pune for all food lovers.

Where: The Square, Hotel Novotel, Weikfield IT City Infopark, Survey No 30, Viman Nagar, Pune-14 When: May 16 - May 25 Time: 7 pm onwards

In The Write Mood -Creative Writing Workshop This summer come play with words. Come write for fun, for creativity, for the joy of writing.

When: May 17, 20, 24, 27 Where: Pagdandi -Book Chai Café, Shop no 6, Regent Plaza Mall, Baner Pashan Link Road, Baner, Pune Time: 11 am - 12:30 pm Fee: Rs.500/- for all four workshops.

Contact: Sucharita 98507 37620

A Tribute to Eagles Livewire has always entertained everyone with their rocking music. Catch them live at Hard Rock Cafe Pune as they pay a brilliant tribute to the legendary Eagles. .

When: Thursday, May 22

Flamenco Guitar Workshop Explore a new musical avenue of Flamenco techniques, Flamenco music appreciation and guitaring. Prior knowledge of guitaring is necessary for this workshop.

Where: Hard Rock Café 81/82, Extension, East Main Road Mundhwa Road ,Koregaon Park, Pune Time: 8:30 pm to 10:30 pm Time: 8 pm onwards

When: Sunday, May 25 Where: Plot No. 20, Survey no 90/2/B and 90/3/B, Behind Bharat Gas, Koregaon Park Annexe, Mundhwa, PuneTime: 12:30 pm onwards Time: 11 am - 1 pm Fee: 300 Rs. Contact: 9764441478 Email: tcc@prelocate.com.

Bake Like A Pastry Chef Get your best whisks and baking trays out!

For those who want to host high tea, impress the spouse or simply treat friends, enroll for a special master-class

by Courtyard by Marriott Pune City Centre’s ace Chef de Partie Gerwin D’souza When: Saturday, May 24 Where: Courtyard by Marriott Pune, City Centre, Bund Garden Road Time: 4 pm - 5 pm

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