UNLTD. PEOPLE | FOOD | CULTURE | ENTERTAINMENT
January 16, 2015
#ACTPUNE
In Search of Goodness
Sonia Garcha redefines CSR
Entertainment
Where Music is made!
COVER STORY
PUNE’S MAKEOVER MAGICIANS A chat with the city’s style authorities
PLUS
InstaPune | Scor’d | Peths | Events
EDITOR’S NOTE
The Wizards of Glamour... A well-known stylist once said, “Style is a way to say who you are without having to speak”. Inner beauty and all of that is all very good; but I truly believe that an appealing, cared-for appearance is always a sight for sore eyes and goes a long way.
“In the past decade, Pune has witnessed nothing short of a metamorphosis in terms of style, fashion and beauty. That’s not to say we’ve “arrived” but, we’re now bounteously fashion/ beauty savvy.”
Contact: hello@puneunltd.com
Editor-in-Chief Aditya Kuber
In the past decade, Pune has witnessed nothing short of a metamorphosis in terms of style, fashion and beauty. That’s not to say we’ve “arrived” but, we’re now bounteously fashion/beauty savvy. Considering that, the focus of this issue is on some of Pune’s very own remarkably creative squadron who have dedicated their work towards making us people, women and men alike, look our finest. Besides that, our grub section will now allow you to easily replicate enticing dishes prepared by Pune’s top chefs, as directed by the culinarians themselves. We also arrived on the final leg of our Puneri Peths’ journey and boy, was it a joyride or what! No one around here is coming out of the culture and heritage trance anytime soon. And of course, the other awesome stuff prevails. Stay stylish!
Editors Veethi Telang Apeksha Bhagchandani
Contributors Sharan Garcha Sanil Mahajan Hanisha Lalwani Parmeet Kohli Radhika Sharma Protima Tiwary Amruta Ghate
Apeksha Bhagchandani
Design
Prasanta Kundu Maddy Kulkarni Sanjali Manekar Anishka Gurjar
Marketing Anish Sohoni Rekha Achtani
Publisher
Media Sphere Communications Pvt. Ltd. www.mediasphere.co.in facebook.com/Puneunltd
Cover Photo: Vaishnav Praveen Model: Ridhiema Shahani
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IN THIS ISSUE
January 16, 2015
LIVE
10
#ACTPUNE
In Search of Goodness
Conversation with Sonia Garcha
24 Peth Puja - Part IV SPECIAL FEATURE
10
Ghorpade Peth, Ganj Peth & Navi Peth
30 On the count of ENTERTAINMET
3...2...1...
SEE
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10
We chatted with three of the renowned studio owners in the city to get their take on the Pune’s independent music artists and howthey really operate…
INSTAPUNE
Capturing the soul of Pune on Instagram
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COVER STORY
Makeover Magicians As we bid a stylish adieu to 2014, let’s take a look at what some of the prominent names in the fashion industry in the city have to say about this transformation, current trends, style tips and a lot more.
EAT
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06 CIY: Cook It FOOD
Yourself
Ever had a mouth-watering meal and wondered what it would be like to make it at home? Here’s the good news! What if we told you that two of the most skilled chefs in the city share their secrets with you? We bring to you three delectable dishes straight from Courtyard by Marriott’s chefs’ cookbooks. Isn’t it just great to have them at your disposal? Cook whenever and impress your folks!
PLAY
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30
SCOR’D
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Reviewing all you can watch, read and eat in Pune.
EVENTS These are set to rock Pune for the next 2 weeks.
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FOOD
C I Y
Cook it Yourself
Ever had a mouth-watering meal and wondered what it would be like to make it at home? Here’s the good news! What if we told you that two of the most skilled chefs in the city share their secrets with you? We bring to you three delectable dishes straight from Courtyard by Marriott’s chefs’ cookbooks. Isn’t it just great to have them at your disposal? Cook whenever and impress your folks! Veethi Telang
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MURGH PAAN DUM BIRYANI Ingredients (Serves one) ÎÎ Basmati rice
200gms
ÎÎ Chicken
90gms
ÎÎ Chopped Onion
20gms
ÎÎ Saffron
2gms
ÎÎ Milk
20ml
ÎÎ Lemon Juice
10ml
ÎÎ Chopped Coriander
10gms
ÎÎ Chopped Green Chilies
5gms
ÎÎ Oil
15ml
ÎÎ Ginger Paste
5gms
ÎÎ Garlic Paste
5gms
ÎÎ Turmeric Powder
5gms
ÎÎ Curd
100gms
ÎÎ Degghi Mirch Powder
10gms
ÎÎ Salt to taste ÎÎ Cloves
2gms
ÎÎ Cinnamon Stick
2gms
ÎÎ Bay Leaf
2gms
ÎÎ Cardamom
2gms
ÎÎ Cumin Seeds
5gms
ÎÎ Betel Leaf
PRADIPT SINHA EXECUTIVE CHEF, COURTYARD BY MARRIOTT PUNE CITY CENTRE Pradipt Sinha has been recently appointed as the Executive Chef of Courtyard by Marriott Pune City Centre. With an exceptional record of service and experience, Chef Sinha joins the city centre hotel to ensure that guests are given high quality F&B service at the hotel. He shares the recipe for Murgh Paan Dum Biryani with us.
2nos
Method Marinate the chicken with curd, turmeric powder, salt, chili powder and ginger-garlic paste, and mix well. Grind all the spices for the chicken in a mixer and add to the marinade. Leave the chicken to marinate for 2 hours. In a pan, heat add the oil and sauté onions until golden brown. In another vessel, cook the biryani rice and keep aside. In a handi, add oil. Once hot, add the chicken and cook on high heat till it gets golden brown in color. Lower the flame; flatten the chicken to form a layer. Add the rice on it and pour the saffron infused milk over the rice Cover the vessel and seal it from all the side with the dough. Let the biryani cook over slow flame till the seal is hard and the rice looks fully cooked. Serve hot and garnish with betel leaf.
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COVER STORY PANETTONE Ingredients (Serves one) ÎÎ Flour
400 Gram
ÎÎ Salt
5 Gram
ÎÎ Sugar
10 Gram
ÎÎ Yeast
10 gram
ÎÎ Butter
100Gram
ÎÎ Egg yolk
GIRISH KUMAR EXECUTIVE CHEF, COURTYARD BY MARRIOTT, CHAKAN Chef Girish T.V brings with him 14 glorious years of experience in the hospitality industry. He mastered the culinary art from Institute of Hotel Management (IHM) in Chennai. As Executive Chef at Courtyard by Marriott, Chennai, he oversees all operations related to multi-cuisine restaurants in the property. He shares the recipe for Honey Glazed Ham and Panettone with us.
HONEY GLAZED HAM Ingredients (Serves one) ÎÎ Cooked ham block ÎÎ Cloves ÎÎ Honey ÎÎ Maple syrup ÎÎ Mustard paste
2 Number
ÎÎ Milk
225 ml
ÎÎ Orange zest
1 Gram
ÎÎ Lemon zest
1 Gram
ÎÎ Raisins
200 Gram
ÎÎ Sultanas
200Gram
ÎÎ Black currant
50Gram
ÎÎ Nutmeg pwd
5Gram
ÎÎ Cardamom pwd
5Gram
ÎÎ Glace cherry
50Gram
ÎÎ Caster sugar
50 Gram
Method Preheat the oven to 200C, Butter a 20cm (8 in) cake tin and line with lightly buttered greaseproof paper. Pour the milk into a bowl, and then sprinkle on the sugar and yeast. Leave for around 10 minutes – it should start to go frothy. Combine the butter and caster sugar in a bowl and beat them together until they are very fluffy. Then beat in the eggs gradually, followed by the lemon and orange rind (and the vanilla extract if you’re using it). Place the flour and salt in a large bowl. Now gently fold in the milky/yeast fluid, followed by the creamed butter/ sugar mixture. Mix them all together until you have soft dough. Put the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 5 minutes until its smooth.
Method Prepare a glaze of honey, mustard and maple syrup by heating it up on a double boiler.Preheat oven to 180 degrees C Score ham, and stud with the whole cloves. Line a baking tray with silver foil. Brush glaze over ham, and bake for 1 hour and 15 minutes in the preheated oven. Baste ham every 10 to 15 minutes with the honey glaze. Increase the temperature in the last 5 minutes and let the glaze get caramelized. Remove from oven, and let sit a few minutes before serving. Slice a serve.
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Then place the dough cover with a towel and leave in a warm place. Leave it for about an hour until it has doubled in size. Sprinkle the raisins/sultanas and mixed peel over the dough. Knead until they are completely mixed in. Place the mixture in the cake tin and leave it in a warm place for about 45 minutes until it gets doubled in size again. When it has risen, bake it in the oven for 10 minutes, then reduce the heat to 180C, and bake it for another 30 minutes. When it’s done it should be golden brown and firm to the touch. Cool the panettone, and dust it with icing sugar 1 teaspoon sugar.
Independence Day long weekend is round the corner. Are you scrambling to put together your travel plans? We present you four quick alternatives to replace your travel agents and expensive hotels! To make the most of your vacation, explore these different options according to your budget, time frame and other parameters. 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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#ACTPUNE
In Search of Goodness
Sharan Garcha
By the turn of the 21st century, the concept of CSR as a voluntary measure gathered momentum with corporates funding social initiatives. Sonia Garcha, a consultant at Development Support Team (DST), shares her experiences of working in an NGO and enabling corporate partnerships.
this was a much more gratifying and satisfying experience as compared to commercial software development
What is your role in the organisation? As my role in the organisation has always been system design and development, my skills as a software programmer were always useful. Currently, my role in DST is of a Project Co-ordinator and I manage the project implementation and documentation for three corporate partners, Forbes Marshall, Ruchi Soya and the UPS Foundation (USA). I also guide students from both, local colleges and international universities, for their internships and research projects.
While working with the corporate partners, have you created any platform for effective partnerships?
Tell me about yourself‌ Having completed my Masters in Computer Science from Pune University, my career began with working at C-DAC, Pune. I moved on to setting up my own software firm, which specialised in Hospital Management Systems. As the advent of computers also affected the NGO sector, they needed assistance in setting up systems and training the staff. I was roped into it by Mrs. H. Bedi, who is my inspiration and also my mother. Mrs. Bedi was then the Country Representative of Oxfam Australia (a funding agency) and is currently the Managing Trustee of DST. While we were growing up, vacation time for my brother and me meant project visits to various rural areas and this experience had taught us the importance of giving back our expertise to the society. She suggested that I give my inputs to NGOs and I slowly realised that
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Yes, we have; through various dialogues and workshops, both at a local and the national level. We firmly believe that the corporate and social sectors have complementary and not competitive skills for development initiatives. Infused with this perspective, a strong partnership will emerge capitalising the strengths of both the sectors in working
#ACTPUNE towards a fairer world. Thus, it becomes important to create a forum that brings together stakeholders from the corporate and the social sector with matching value systems and ideologies for a dialogue to facilitate effective partnerships. With this objective in mind, DST initiated a series of interactive sessions on “Building Bridges”.
Please tell me about the workshop… DST is organising a second workshop on “Building Bridges and Enabling Partnerships” on January 20, 2015, so that a new journey can be traversed with a collective strength. The workshop will involve sharing the challenges and roadblocks faced in the implementation of CSR projects. That is while not undermining the best practices adopted by organisations in building a mutually beneficial complementary partnership between the corporate and social sector.
What do you hope to achieve from this workshop? The participants, who will be from leading companies and the social sector specifically from in and around Pune, will have an opportunity to understand views of different stakeholders, discuss best practices, exchange knowledge and build partnerships towards achieving common objectives.
What’s next? At DST, we plan to “build bridges” between the NGOs and the corporates to enable CSR partnerships and work collectively towards sustainable development.
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COVER STORY
Pune’s Makeover Magicians When it comes to fashion, Pune has seen a huge transformation in the last decade. With changes in rules of organized retailing, Pune saw a lot of premium and international brands entering the market in the past. Many national and international apparel and cosmetic brands were no longer restricted to bigger cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore. As we bid a stylish adieu to 2014, let’s take a look at what some of the prominent names in the fashion industry in the city have to say about this transformation, current trends, style tips and a lot more. Protima Tiwary
Natasha Parekh Natasha Parekh is an upcoming name in the fashion and make-up circuit in Pune. At a young age, she has managed to carve a niche for herself as a hairstylist and free-lance makeup artist. She owns her own salon in Aundh, and has previously worked with big names like Slice & Bounce Salon & Spa and Head to Toes Salon.
What are the hair and makeup trends that you currently adore? I’m currently obsessed with braids. They are easy, chic and give an air of careless elegance. They also cover up bad hair days with minimum hassle and maximum Êlan. My personal favourite look involves pairing up bright lip colors like neons with nude eyes and a hint of eyeliner. This works perfectly well for a fun day look. My second favourite look is the black/brown smokeyeyed look with nude lips, which works best for a night out.
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COVER STORY What do you see different about hair and makeup in 2015 when compared to say, 2000? I believe people are willing to experiment so much more now. I find many people opting for an Ombre look. Curls too seem to be trending again. The change has been a welcoming one and there is a lot more scope in the market.
Pune has undergone a massive transformation in the fashion circuit. Comment? People have started becoming more conscious about the way they look. They are more aware about current trends and also willing to break rules and make their own fashion statements. I sometimes feel that people have become a little too brand conscious, which I feel can lead to monotony when it comes to colours, styles
and patterns. However, their willingness to experiment makes my job more fun and interactive. So it’s all good (laughs).
If you could describe your look in three words, what would they be? I like to keep it simple, comfortable and most importantly, practical.
What is one important tip you’d give to women when it comes to their makeup? It’s important to be comfortable with the way you look. Don’t try to change the way you look with makeup; just enhance your features. Also, putting on too much makeup can make your face look patchy and/or oily. Go easy!
Hair and Makeup by Natasha Parekh
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COVER STORY
Amit Mali The only photographer from Pune to have his photos featured in the Italian Vogue, Amit Mali is a name to watch out for. With passion and skill driving him forward, this humble youngster comes across as focused, fierce and determined. Here are excerpts from the interview…
When and why did you start fashion photography? It’s been three years since I started. I initially started with street photography. Street photography taught me basics like observing natural light falling on to a subject, how to compose frames and a lot more. It’s during this that I realised I loved portraying people. That is when I made a decision to shoot portraits. I later fused this with fashion. I still do a little bit of street photography whenever I get some free time. My work is a blend of abstract and fine art with a hint of fashion.
What is it that inspires you? Photography makes you to look at the world more closely. It teaches you how to observe. It makes you find intriguing, unusual and stunning beauty in unexpected places, and inspires you to look for new things in unknown places. It broadens horizons, opens eyes, parts velvet ropes, and catalyzes quirky and wonderful events. You can make moments permanent, control light, and
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immortalize the infinitesimal. Great photographs move me, so I’m happy to be an avid photographer hoping to produce my own images. I’m inspired by whatever I see; light is what attracts me the most, but I am also intrigued by shapes. I’m more of an artist than a technician.
What project is closest to your heart? µ ( myu ); It’s a series of albums, derived from the word ‘Musings’. This involved my favorite model from Pune (Ketaki Narayan) and is extremely close to my heart. She understands me well and being a theater artist, she performs rather than pose. This is what makes the shoot interesting. This shoot changed things for us when the work went international and Italian Vogue featured our pictures on there website.
What do you think about fashion photography trends today in Pune? Well, it’s got a long way to go. I personally feel there is a lot of evolution required in fashion photography in Pune. Things here are restricted to the four walls of a studio and a fancy camera. We need to give up this con-
trolled environment and take up work with a wider perspective. Creativity takes courage. Pune needs to break out of the stereotype. People are taking the risk, but it’s a slow process.
What is the one concept or dream project that you want to try? My dream project is Apriori. It’s a philosophical term with some mysticism attached to it. It’s more about exploring the spiritual aspect in me and expressing it through the art of photography. Right now, I have a team working on it, doing an in-depth analysis of this concept before its execution. It not only involves portraits but also the elements of serene fashion. And, I would also love to work with Laxmi Menon one day; she is the one model I really hope to work with.
If you could describe your style in three words, what would they be? Attentive, intimate, simple... And obsessive (I couldn’t put it in 3 words, sorry!)
What is one important tip you’d give to budding fashion photographers? Experiment a lot and keep practicing.
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COVER STORY imenting with their styles and opting for different looks. Pune has definitely seen a massive change and continues to do so.
What’s your favourite trend in the market right now? I am a big fan of the classic era; monochromes and clean cuts are an eternal favourite. When it comes to makeup, I love bright colours and experimenting with my looks.
What tip would you like to give to aspiring models? Stick it out. It’s a difficult field, it takes a lot of patience, but it works out in the end if you play your cards right. Stick it out!
Sanjana Ganesan
Any dream project that you wish to be a part of?
An upcoming model from Pune, Sanjana Ganesan has made a mark in the modelling industry in the last one year. A contestant at Femina Miss India 2014, Sanjana forayed into television with the reality series Splitsvilla at MTV. Here is a candid chat with the young star. How has Pune been a pivotal part of your journey? Well, it’s home. I have always been comfortable here. I have felt at home with my friends, family and Pune in general has been like my support system. People feel Pune is a slow market and there are not enough opportunities here, but I beg to differ. I started from Pune, and that is only because I grabbed all the opportunities that were presented before me. Everything is available here. You just need to be aggressive.
To be honest, I have been living a dream all through 2014. I had never thought I’d be a part of LFW, and I got to walk for some big designers last year. Right now I want to try my hand at acting. I am attending classes and working hard towards this. Right now Bollywood is a dream.
What does 2015 have in store for you? 2014 was a year of preparation and 2015 will be a year of execution.
You must have noticed a transformation in the fashion circuit in Pune say, since the year 2000. Your comments? I was 10 years old back in 2000 so I doubt I can comment on this (laughs). But since the time I have taken an interest in this field, I have noticed a change. People are getting exposed to international brands, opening up to exper-
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Image Credits: Femina Photographer: Abhishek Khorgade Designer: Ajay Admane
COVER STORY
Nupur Chaudhuri
Journalist-turned-footwear-designer Nupur Chaudhuri launched her brand of footwear in August 2014. All about fun, comfort and non-leather shoes, Nupur has already made a mark in the industry.
Footwear designing is an unusual field. What made you choose this path? I was a journalist for 11 years before I decided to take this step. I have always been a shoe lover; my aunt still tells us stories about how she would get me shoes from different countries she’d travel to, and I’d wear them all around the house, afraid to put my feet down and get them dirty. I was 21 when I realised I could design shoes too. On a girls’ night out, while watching P.S I Love You, I had a sudden inspiration to design shoes. A very cheesy start, but that’s how it is. My then boyfriend and now husband, has been a strong support system throughout. I went to London, studied footwear design and launched my label in August 2014.
How has your experience in the Pune market been so far? It’s been fantastic! People have loved what I have to offer; they have accepted me with open arms. I am invited to display my shoes at exhibitions all over the city. I also get orders from other cities. It’s been great!
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Is there any particular buying behaviour that you have noticed here in Pune? Everyone here wants to stay in his or her comfort zones. Every woman admires heels, but not many buy them. Because let’s face it, they’re not comfortable. Most women go for flats. That’s why I promote wedge heels; they’re a lot better than stilettos.
What are your favourite trends in the footwear industry? It’s got to be Gladiators. I try incorporating that style into all my designs. I recently did Kolhapuri gladiators that were a big hit. I absolutely love that trend!
What according to you will be a dominant trend in 2015 in the footwear industry? There will be a lot of colors, especially blue as well as two-toned hues.
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COVER STORY hair- colours. I see a lot of red being used towards the end of the season. I feel the 1960s will make a comeback this year.
Describe your look in three words. Elegant, bold and poised.
Share some tips on hair and makeup with Punekars.
Rita Verma
After having studied makeup and hair styling at London School of Fashion, Rita Verma decided to launch her own brand “River Academy and Makeover Experts”. With a passion for makeup and hair, it’s a delight to watch her face light up as she discusses fashion and makeup trends, her future predictions in terms of makeup and hairstyles and a lot more. Compare the current fashion/beauty circuit in Pune from say, 10 years ago. There has been a tremendous change. Pune has become very trendy in the last decade. People are aware of brands, colours and styles. Even college students have become trendy now and are no longer laid back. They are aware of things like colour blocking, Ombre, etc. In hair and makeup, there has been a drastic improvement in terms of styles and cuts, hair colouring and experimental makeup. People are getting bold. They are taking extra care of their hair with regular hair spas and treatments.
What according to you is the current trend in hairstyles? As far as makeup is concerned, this season is all about smokey eyes and glowy/dewey skin tones. Towards the end of 2015, I see a lot of bright lips and neutral tones being used. For hair, I love the shoulder- and mid-length styles. Poker straight is out, thank God for that. Bangs are fun too. Highlights have made a comeback along with bold
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For makeup, always carry a good lipstick/gloss, blush, lotion, kohl, eyeliner and bronzer with you. You never know when you might need them. Winters are the best to manipulate your look. During summers keep it minimal. You don’t want excess makeup getting your face oily or worse, it melting off your face! Keep the liquid mascara to a minimum, use very less kajal, and go in for light shades like pink and peach for the lips. For hair: This one is especially for those with naturally curly hair. It’s very important to care for it the right way. For children blow 10, their hair should not be brushed or combed. Parents hesitate to apply conditioners but there is no harm. Conditioner makes the hair soft. Adults with coloured curly hair need to use a colour-specific shampoo for six months before moving on to a regular shampoo. In the summers, don’t use much of conditioner and stay hydrated. In the monsoon, go in for a leave-in conditioner. During winters, avoid washing your hair too many times. Drink warm water and consume a lot of honey.
One trend that you feel must go completely? Bouffants and puffs need to go. Many people feel this adds volume and enhances the face structure; it’s not true for all. One needs to be very careful with this particular style.
Nidhi Bhandari
Are there any particular buying trends that you have noticed?
A couture footwear designer and founder of her namesake brand “Nidhi Bhandari”, Nidhi Bhandari presents to us a new and unique story with each pair of footwear she designs. Every shoe has a personality, and Nidhi is one of the best examples of unique designs that speak for themselves.
Footwear designing is an unusual field. What made you choose this path? I am an architecture graduate who has always been in love with shoes. Back in college I owned around 150 pairs of shoes and loved them more than my clothes. Family members would have problems with footwear and feet and I would solve them. That’s when I knew I wanted to pursue my passion. I did face a lot of resistance from my folks since this was a very unusual degree to get. I completed my architecture degree and then studied footwear designing in London.
How has your experience in the Pune market been? It’s been slow, but I have seen they have accepted me very well now. People are keen on buying new styles and are opening up to experimental designs. Customisation being my forte, I have realised people are stepping out of their comfort zones to create their own individual look. Though leaving their comfort zones is a little difficult, people are opening up to my label.
I’m honestly amazed at the excitement. People walk in to “have a look” and leave with 5-6 pairs of shoes. And I have seen
this in the majority of cases. People are looking at creating an individual, unique look. And I am getting a similar response from other cities across the country.
What’s your favourite trend? I personally feel that a pair of bold heels makes a woman look her sexiest. A woman is the most confident at her highest posture. I feel heels are the best things to happen to the shoe industry.
Describe your style in one word. Bold.
What does 2015 have in store for you? I am thrilled with the response from 2014. 2015 will only get better. My label is now in other cities too. I am also planning on going international but that’s all that I can say about that right now.
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COVER STORY terns, fabrics, the works. This suddenly makes your wardrobe seem much bigger!
What have you planned for your label in 2015?
Karishma Shahani With a mix of modern colours and traditional designs, KA-SHA, set up in 2011, focuses on reinterpreting and re-visualising Indian fabrics and crafts. Karishma Shahani is the name behind this brand, and here is what she has to say about her journey in Pune and what lies ahead in 2015. Your comments on Pune’s fashion sense? People have become more open to change. They are willing to try out different styles. It’s not only about the money anymore. People are open to trying new brands, designs and styles. They are opening up to newer names and younger designers. People are opting for individuality and a personal style rather than just dressing up for the sake of it. They are not blindly donning a particular trend. I also feel increase in travelling has given people an exposure that is now reflecting in their styles.
What do you feel are the current trends of 2015? Mixing and matching is going big; colours, pat-
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I primarily deal in natural fabrics only, but this year I will be stressing heavily on hand-woven fabrics only. I will also be experimenting a lot with colours.
What is your current favourite trend? I love the way contrasting colours are being used. A salmon and a mint for example, are lovely colours that designers are now experimenting with. It’s very interesting.
What’s the one trend that you despise? Honestly, I don’t think I despise any particular trend. Each style is meant for someone, not everything can look good on everyone. But if you really, really ask me to think, I’d say velvets. I’m not a fan of heavy velvets.
Describe your style. I like dressing for comfort. It’s very important for me to be comfortable. I love accessorising, mixing and matching my clothes and I am a big fan of layering. Best part about layering is it can help you transform your look in a jiffy!
SCOR’D
Film Taken 3
Film Tevar
Takes logic for granted!
Totally skippable! Lacks the Punch!
Food German Bakery Wunderbar
Book 2014: The Election That Changed India by Rajdeep Sardesai
Book It Happens For A Reason by Preeti Shenoy
A book no news junkie can afford to miss!
An emotional romantic thriller
Food The Flying Saucer Skybar, Viman Nagar
Great hangout but a bit heavy on the pocket!
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Just can’t get enough of the quality cocktails!
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SPECIAL FEATURE
Peth-Puja Part IV
Ghorpade Peth, Ganj Peth & Navi Peth Parmeet K ohli
Ghorpade Peth Thanking my stars on not having to ride through the chaotic bus hub of Swargate, I parked my bike in a lane some distance before it, off the always-busy Shankar
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Sheth Road. On my last Peth assignment (yes, we have run out of Peths), with the sun beating down on a particularly warm afternoon, I start the walk with a cold and refreshing glass of Nira in Ghorpade Peth. Named in the memory of Sardar Ghorpade from the era of the Peshwas, Ghorpade Peth is teeming with store
SPECIAL FEATURE a wood scrap shop with some interesting wooden artefacts strewn around. A beautiful antique desk with two chairs caught my fancy and the dealer left no leaf unturned in trying to sell it, claiming it is from the British era and a steal at the twelve grand he was hoping to make from it. A short walk away from the wood scrap
after store of miscellanea to help you deck your house. It does not seem to resemble a Puneri Peth in the least! Be it tiles for your kitchen, wooden flooring for your bedroom or a fancy basin sink for your bathroom, Ghorpade Peth is the place you want to be shopping at. It specialises in an assortment of hardware to adorn your house with stores by the dozen dealing in kitchen-ware, sanitary-ware, tiles, wallpapers and what not. I spotted more than one couple arguing over what design suits their house the best. Not surprising at all as the variety on offer here is astonishing. From the ordinary to the exquisite, from the indoors to the outdoors and from the kitchen to the bathroom, it is all here. Italian marble is the buzzword around this area and by the looks of it, Ghorpade Peth stores more of it than all of Italy! Walking through this out and out commercial Peth, with the exception of tiny residential pockets, I came across
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shop I walked into a narrow lane where I spotted a stack of beautiful mini wooden temples, the kinds people use in their prayer rooms. Right behind them was a workshop with pink walls and the cutest Labrador looking down from the building’s first floor. I walked right in to find a carpenter working away at more temples and hardly looking up to tell me that “Seth” is not around. For eatables, other than a Kalyan Bhel outlet and a colorful ice-gola handcart, I was hard-pressed to find anything other than these commercial establishments through-
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out Ghorpade Peth.
Ganj Peth Known earlier as Muzaffarjang and now also known as Mahatma Phule Peth, Ganj Peth is a short walk away
from Ghorpade Peth. The way runs through the timber market of Bhawani Peth with the sharp smell of wood laminate filling your nostrils. As I walk through the market, surrounded by planks of wood and bamboos, a man curious about my camera stops me to ask about what I’m up to and directs me to the Mahatma Phule Wada after telling me a bit about Savitribai Phule, her husband Jyotirao Phule and their wonderful legacy. Excited and a little embarrassed at my ignorance
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about their accomplishments, I get to the Mahatma Phule Wada. Smeared in a beautiful earthy brown color, the simple architecture of the Wada mirrors the humble lifestyle of people in the nineteenth century and takes you on a journey to the past. The main structure of the Wada
is set within a spacious enclosure, which also houses bronze busts of Savitribai and Jyotirao Phule amidst beautiful old trees. The mud walls of the main Wada structure were once falling apart but have now been restored by using a combination of mesh wire, cement and a generous smearing of mud and dung which keeps its earthiness intact. A big thumbs up to the respective authorities for impeccably maintaining this important heritage. I loved the fact that no entry fee is charged and the caretaker, K.T. Hande, told me that apart from bus-
loads of school children, the Mahatma Phule Wada sees a constant stream of visitors. Inside, the Wada is dark with beautiful soft sunlight falling through charming old windows after streaming in through the thick trees outside. There’s something very surreal about the whole place and the light definitely contributes to that effect. Inside the Wada also lies a small courtyard with a historic well, which is so symbolic of Savitribai and Jyotirao’s contribution to the liberation of Dalits in Maharashtra. All their lives they tirelessly aimed at changing meaningless societal regulations and restrictions that were imposed on the lower castes. Moved by the treatment of untouchables, who were refused drinking water meant for the upper castes, Jyotirao and Savitribai opened up this very well to them. Savitribai played an instrumental part in the field of women’s education in India and started a
feminism in general, as she was both addressing and challenging, not simply the question of gender
women’s school in Bhide Wada on the January 1, 1848. This was the first women’s school in the entire nation started by a native. She faced heavy opposition from the orthodox majority who even went to the extent of issuing threats of physical assault and throwing dung on her. Savitribai though, persevered and today is rightly described by the independent scholar Tiffany K. Wayne as “one of the first-generation modern Indian feminists, and an important contributor to world
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in isolation but also issues related to caste and casteist patriarchy�. Together Savitribai and Jyotirao Phule also tackled the issue of young widows being mistreated by starting a home for them. Young widows were quite common on the account of girls being married off very young (Savitribai was all of nine when she was married) as well as the high mortality rate.
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As I walked out of the Wada a white plastic ball bounced close to me and shouts from children playing cricket just outside the Wada’s walls broke the trance this amazing historical place had put me in. I threw the ball back and reluctantly walked away from the Wada. There was something about it, which had made me not want to leave at all! I still could not shake off the past as I spotted an old man listening to old songs on one of those big transistors, which I have not seen in a while and another one zipping past on a primitive Yezdi. It seemed at the time like a part of Ganj Peth was wedged in the past! Still in a sort of a daze, I remember noticing that apart from a few wooden furniture shops, which probably get their wood from the adjoining timber market, and a busy fish and meat bazaar, Ganj Peth is largely a residential Peth.
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Navi Peth I then started the long walk to Navi Peth, stopping only for a jumbo glass of some heavenly sugarcane juice and photographing a few old wadas on the way. Navi Peth is largely residential, has a whole lot of classes and academies right from eleventh standard to C.A. and is more of a satellite Peth of the bigger Sadashiv Peth. Addresses here can be rather confusing to the notso-frequent visitor, with one saying Navi Peth and the one right next to it saying Sadashiv Peth! I spotted Lokmanya Vachanalaya, a beautiful looking public library with quite a collection of old looking books and a constant stream of avid readers. A couple of charming old wadas stand right next to the library and an old man standing outside one of them told me they will not be around for long since they’ve stood there for far longer than the Corporation is comfortable with. Swanky new buildings will soon take their place.
It was on sad note to end these magnificent Peth walks. But my time at the Mahatma Phule Wada earlier in the day had done enough to leave me full of hope and positivity. Here’s wishing that the spirit of the Puneri Peth hangs on to the city we so love forever.
All Photos: Parmeet Kohli
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ENTERTAINMAENT
F O T N U O C E H T ON
… 1 … 2 3…
Sharan Garcha
Ronak Runwal Gray Spark Audio
REC
The idea behind Gray Spark is to provide one single point where their clients can get all of their sound solutions from. The name ‘Gray Spark’ was conceptualised by putting together interpretations of the words ‘Gray’ and ‘Spark’. Together ‘Gray Spark’ represents dynamism, backed by experience and the ability to adapt, explore and create new experiences.
What do you think of Pune’s independent bands/artists? Budding Puneri musicians, listen up! We all know that the music scene in Pune today has moved beyond commercial genres and passionate music artists are leaving no stone unturned in creating a name for themselves. We can see a lot of upcoming independent musicians creating unique music and breaking all stereotypes. Studio owners in the city have their own take on this particular concept. We chatted with three of the renowned studio owners in the city to get their take on the Pune’s independent music artists and how they really operate…
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The music scene in the city has got a lot better than what it was say five years ago. I established my studio about four years ago, and since then, I can definitely see a change when it comes to the artists and bands. There is a huge difference in not just the number of people being involved but also the quality of content that is being produced. Being a producer myself, I can certainly say that the content that the artists are creating is far more mature.
What kind of crowd do you usually get? Is it mainly college students? No. It’s not just college students. When I started the studio, we used to get a lot of students. But today, it’s a good balance with a lot of artists and bands. Also, with the Indie Music scene improving, we are able to do some semi-commercial work. We’ve also had a
ENTERTAINMENT Tell us about the facilities you provide. We have a wide range of facilities for our clients. At Gray Spark we provide a variety of sound solutions under one roof. Our team has trained sound engineers. The facilities range from sound mixing, dubbing, surround sound to even background scores. Along with this, we also have an entire post production set up for a movie assignment.
What’s different about your studio in comparison to the others in the city? A major difference about Gray Spark and other studios in the city is the entire team at the studio. We are the most experienced team. Not just that - we have a large enough space to accommodate our artists. There are quite a few recording studios in the city that aren’t big enough and this definitely gives us an added advantage! What’s more, we don’t just limit ourselves to our studio. We cater to our clients’ every need.
heavy metal band record their entire album with us at our studio. We also get work from the Bollywood industry. So, we have artists coming not just from the city of Pune but from everywhere!
Has anyone from your clientele made it big? Yes, there are a few artists. One of the recent artists that we are working with are Drawing Short Straws who, I must say, are a talented bunch. Then, we have Rohit Vasudevan Diaries and Raushan Verma Scheme who have made a mark for themselves in the Indie Music Scene.
What are the rates for recording at your studio? The rates of recording actually depend on whether the artist or band is an independent one or here for commercial work. Also, as we also produce albums at the studio, the charges vary accordingly.
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Abhijit Kolhatkar Reverb Sound Studio
Equipped with state-of-the-art equipment and acoustically treated interiors, Reverb Sound Studio reflects the passion and dedication of its founders - Abhinav Khanna, Abhijit Kolhatkar and Sanjeev Pradhan.
Pune’s independent artists have gone
huge in the last few years. What do you think? There is a lot of upcoming talent and passionate musicians in the city. Today’s artists and bands have a lot of originality and creativity through their music. To give them
a platform to create and promote the music of the independent artists, I opened up Reverb Sound Studio. I know that it isn’t easy for musicians to make music as their profession.
What kind of crowd do you get? When we had opened up the studio it was initially opened up for college students. I have interacted with about 500 artists since then and we
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COVER STORY
have a great mix of musicians who are both students and professionals who have day jobs.
Any big names out there? Yes, we have Gaia’s Throne, a heavy metal band. And then, we have an artist Alankar Chavan who is a lyricist, composer and singer. Recently he has got an opportunity to work for a Marathi film which is under production at present. I also provide opportunities for artists and bands from various genres. A while ago, I promoted 11 musicians for an event at Tilak Smarak. These musicians were a mix of lyricists, composers and five new singers.
What are the rates for recording? The rates at our studio are Rs. 600 for an hour. We are the most popular studio when it comes to bands and are even known as the ‘band friendly’ studio in town.
That’s great! What all facilities does Reverb Sound Studio provide? We have state-of-the-art equipment that is ideal for creating professional quality audio recordings. This includes
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professional grade condenser microphones by AKG and Shure, powerful iMac running Logic Pro 9, Motu 896mk3 hybrid mixer, Sonodyne SM300 monitors, etc. This is the best possible environment for musicians to record/mix your music/jingles or narrations. You will find the best talent engaged to get you a perfect recording and mix. Sunai Marathe, is an expert at western style genres. Not only adept at use of tools, he is an accomplished musician himself and provides very critical feedback that makes all the difference. We also have Johnston D’Souza, who brings years of live sound engineering experience also in western genres.
What would you say, makes Reverb Sound Studio a cut above the rest? Our mission of providing a platform for upcoming talented musicians is something that can easily differentiate us from any other studio. This being the core of our studio, we try going out of our way to help this talent and produce great music.
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COVER STORY
Swatantra Sarode TweakLab Studios
Set up by qualified and experienced sound engineer Swatantra Sarode, TweakLab Studio is a recording and audio production studio setup born out of the need for artists to have a platform to develop, record and release their own music.
Pune sure has some of the most enviable individual artists, right? What do you think of them? The scene is definitely getting better than what it was earlier. Especially in terms of production, an aspect that was once ignored, and is now coming into the picture. A lot of good songs are coming up. And talking about the independent artists, we are all here to help each other
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out in whichever way we can.
What’s your clientele like? I am currently freelancing with Yash Raj Productions and so, I’d have to say, my clients are more Bollywood-based. Along with that we get a lot of short filmmakers, Pop and Independent Rock artists. Wow! Yash Raj sure is a huge association! Any other biggies in your client list?
Yes. Skylight Vision, a Progressive Rock band that recently got featured at RayBan Never Hide Sounds show on Pepsi MTV Indies. Then we have Sanket Sane, who is playing with Agnee and also been a part of MTV Unplugged.
COVER STORY What recording rates do you usually offer? It really depends on the kind of project. We are flexible when it comes to recording rates. It also depends on what kind of budget the artists have and our relationship with them. We are open for bookings 24 hours a day, 7 days a week and, might I add, with free parking available at our studio! ;)
What are the facilities that you provide for your clients? We are fully equipped to meet the demands of today’s studio clientele with professional quality digital recordings using good equipment and music instruments. We also provide a ‘Jam Place’ for bands to rehearse and get better. So, you’ve got that going for you!
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What would you say makes Tweaklab Studios different from the rest? Me! Anytime you want to be entertained, come to the studio! No, I’m not kidding! It’s really the experience and vibe with us that totally gives us an edge over the others. We provide a creative environment to the artists and help get the best out of them without making the entire experience expensive.
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Learn to Paint STILLLIFE in Oil Colours
EVENTS Down Town Flea The Downtown Flea is a start up to create a platform where art meets society in a musical & a truly spectacular environment brimming January with live bands, pop up shops glazed with out-of-the-ordinary articles. It brings together an eclectic mix of produce from the best of street cuisine to fashion and craft surprises.
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When Saturday, January 17
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January
Art2Day Gallery is organising an 8 session creative workshop on “Learn to Paint STILL-LIFE in Oil Colours:, this unique workshop will be taken by Mukta Avachat-Shirke, a young talented & professional painter. When Saturday, January 17
Where Art2Day, 1048, Shukrawar Peth, Tilak Road, Near Hirabaug Chowk, Pune, Time 1 pm to 3 pm .Contact 7276000027
Where The Irish Village - Koregaon Park , Mundhwa Road, Opp. Raga Lawns , Ahead of Hotel Westin, Time 11 am
How to Read a Film
18 January
We are used to watching films purely for entertainment. When we watch in this way, we are mostly passive observers of the action, not really thinking much beyond our feelings and impressions of what is on the screen. To teach you what aspects are involved while reading a film, Jay Gholap, a script consultant, Documentary and corporate filmmaker will conduct the workshop. They will discuss the film Pather Panchali. When Sunday, January 18
Where Prelocate, Plot No. 20, Survey no 90/2/B and 90/3/B, Behind Bharat Gas, Koregaon Park Annexe, Mundhwa, Pune Time 11 am - 5 pm Fee 1.300 INR per person Contact Jay-9619595411
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January
American invasion – Pyjama Festival The Weirdass Pyjama brings to you comedy from the land of dreams! Seasoned pros from the USA, regulars at the prestigious Laugh Factory comedy club come to India for the first time, and hosting them is India’s highest selling English comedian, Vir Das! This is one show you DO NOT want to miss! When Friday, January 23 Where Pumproom, Pubtown, Ishanya Mall, Yerwada, Time 8 pm
Building Bridges and Enabling Partnerships
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January
An Interactive session between the Social Sector and the Corporates for enabling future CSR partnerships. The participants will be from leading companies and the social sector specifically from in and around Pune. The delegates will have an opportunity to understand views of different stakeholders, discuss best practices, exchange knowledge and build partnerships towards achieving common objectives. When Tuesday, January 20 Where MCCIA, ICC Towers, SB road, Pune Time 9:30 am
Shavita Ek Shaam Shayari aur Kavita ke Naam We live, breathe, and dream Poetry. Do you? Then join us for Shavita: an evening of poetry recital and anecdotes. The theme: Sahir Ludhianvi Rebel. Commie. Lover. Atheist. Poet. Lyricist. Sahir wrote with an intensity bordering on January insanity. We’ll read his anti-war opus ‘Parchhaiyaan’ - and more if time permits - with translations. We’ll recount stories about Sahir: one of us was his friend, after all. Recitation by: Jay, Preyas and Kulbeer
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When Sunday, January 25 Where Pagdandi - Books Chai Cafe, Shop No.6, Regent Plaza, Baner Pashan Link Road, Behind Symantec, Baner, Pune Time 2 pm