RITZ January 2018

SOUTH INDIA’S PREMIER UBER LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE

JANUARY 2018 VOL 14 ISSUE 6

`100

CONQUER ING B OR DE R S , F E A R L E S S LY

Malayalam Box Office Queen Bee Parvathy is making an indelible impact on cinema. She shares her experiences in this explosive interview

EXCITING INTERVIEWS, RESTAURANT REVIEWS, FASHION TRENDS, BEAUTY NEWS AND LOTS MORE!

SOUTH INDIA’S PREMIER UBER LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE

JANUARY 2018 VOL 14 ISSUE 6

`100

The

YOUTH ICON Meet the leader in the making who is leaving indelible impressions and is here for the long haul

EXCITING INTERVIEWS, RESTAURANT REVIEWS, FASHION TRENDS, BEAUTY NEWS AND LOTS MORE!

RITZ RITZSPOTLIGHT Inside

ISSUE 6 | VOL 14 | January 2018

14 BEAUTY

The New You Stay ahead, stay uber-stylish, stay illuminated and let the party season continue throughout the year

Vivacious Violet It’s the season to get dramatically provocative just like the Pantone Colour of the Year 2018 Ultra Violet

20 SPOTLIGHT

New Year, New You! Here's what some of the stars and celebrities wish to get done in 2018

Symbol Of Justice Justice Indira Banerjee who holds the coveted position of Chief Justice of the Madras High Court shares the issues that she’s addressing in the society

30 PERSONALITY

The Youth Icon Meet Mohammed Haris Nalapad, son of NA Haris, a leader in the making who is leaving indelible impressions and is here for the long haul

STRIDING ACROSS BORDERS A candid conversation with Parvathy Thiruvoth Kottuvata, who is busy churning out back to back blockbuster hits across South Indian Cinema

50 TRENDING NOW

Bake & Blog RITZ compiles some of Bengaluru’s baker bloggers whose baking blogs will inspire you to move beyond picking up ready-toeat, boxed bakes that throng the stores

56 FOOD

Elevate your epicurean expectations

let your senses take a journey through the Orient with Bengaluru’s haute new Kitchen & Bar 1Q1 64 TRAVEL

38 6

RITZ January 2018

Living the life of a Parisian Here’s an offbeat account of Paris where you can soak in the sights, sounds and experiences of the exotic kind

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RITZ Inside

ISSUE 6 | VOL 14 | January 2018 68 CORRIDORS OF POWER

Lean, Mean And Tech – Savvy

Inspector General of Police of the State Crime Records Bureau (SCRB), Sumit Sharan has been proactively rolling out a slew of citizen friendly initiatives 82 RSVP

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For Samarjeet Kothari of Trezoro Diamonds, selling diamonds isn’t just a business but pure passion. Check out pics from their sparkling event

Hide Out Bistro was launched in association with RITZ Magazine

Sneak peek into a classy evening hosted by Omega and RITZ Magazine

A soiree of fun, fashion and styling tips hosted by Atosa of Mumbai and flagged by Raj Shroff and Barkha Ahuja

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Edited and Published by Aruna R Krishnan from 7th Floor, Sigma Wing, Raheja Towers, 177 Anna Salai, Chennai 600002.

Printed by Rathna Offset Printers at 40, Peters Road, Royapettah, Chennai - 600 014 All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission is strictly prohibited. RITZ is not responsible for unsolicited material.

RITZ assumes no responsibility for the veracity and authenticity of the advertisements published herein. Readers are requested to make appropriate enquiries before incurring any expenses or acting on medical recommendations or otherwise in relation to any advertisement or article published herein. Also views in articles published herein are those of the respective authors only. RITZ does not necessarily subscribe to these views.

All correspondence should be addressed to: RITZ, 7th Floor, Sigma Wing, Raheja Towers, 177, Anna Salai, Chennai 600 002.

Contact: +91 44 4211 3871. Email: admin@ritzmagazine.in For advertising and marketing queries across South India, please contact M Praveen Kumar, Vice President - Marketing +91 98419 73090

10 RITZ January 2018

RITZ BEAUTY Shiseido Luminizing Satin Trio eye colour ` 2,400

VIVACIOUS VIOLET It’s the season to get dramatically provocative just like the Pantone Colour of the Year 2018 Ultra Violet that screams originality, ingenuity and visionary thinking.

Welcome the futuristic colour on your make up palette and see how your mood gets an instant perk-me-up look.

MAC Retro Matte Liquid lipstick Recollection ` 650

The Body Shop Goa Magnolia Matte Lip Liquid ` 695

Yves Rocher Gel Effect Nail Enamel ` 575

Rimmel Scandeleyes Eye Shadow stick ` 400

The Body Shop Striking Eye Definer Purple ` 695

Sisley PhytoOmbre Eclat Ultra Violet

Text by NAMITA GUPTA

Shiseido Shimmering Rouge ` 1,750

Max Factor Smoky Eye Shadow ` 785

Sally Hansen Magnetic Nail ` 905

Makeup artist Batul Lakdawala shares some tips on how to use the colour to work for you.

1) Ultra violet is a versatile colour, so it goes both with cool tones and warm tone skin colours.

2) If you’re using the Ultra violet hue as eyeshadow, go for neutral lips or vice versa.

3) Wearing a violet dress with an ultra violet makeup looks very monotonous and overdone, so try to give a colour breakup.

4) Use the colour carefully and subtly for a classy effect that doesn’t end up looking tacky.

5) Finding the right shade of violet for your skin tone is very important

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Lakme Illuminating Eyeshadow Palette Royal Persia ` 995

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RITZ BEAUTY

T H E

Bobbi Brown Skin Weightless Foundation SPF 15 ` 4,750

N E W

Give your flawless face that natural sheen and radiant finish this New Year. Stay ahead, stay uber-stylish, stay illuminated and let the party season continue throughout the year. Latest makeup trends are all about individuality and making a style statement. Choosing elements from latest trends and blending them with your own personality is important. So if you like to shine, then go ahead, pair those shimmery lips with sparkly eyes. If subtle is what you like then go for natural skin tones. Be yourself this year Text by NAMITA GUPTA

Blossom Kochhar Aroma Magic Hydrating Seaweed Pack ` 395

Y O U Maybelline Color Sensational Lip Flush Bitten Lip Raspberry Smoothie ` 500

BeYu Color Play Lash Tip ` 1,020

Malu Wilz Caviar Moisturising Cream ` 3,999

Organic Harvest O3+ Purifying Sulfur Cooling Facial Mask ` 830

Lakme Absolute Argan Oil Lip Colours Buttery Caramel ` 750

Sonic Sarwate, Global Senior Artiste, MAC Cosmetics shares the latest beauty trends for 2018.

Revlon ColorStay Overtime Lipcolor in Unending Red ` 1,125

• High end glitter is really big. Be it on eyes, cheeks or lips. Metallic eyes and lips are perfect perk-me-up picks.

• Bright colours have been in trend for last few seasons and are still going strong. Bright blues, greens, oranges, yellows…choose any colour that matches your personality, play around and have fun with it.

• Red lips never go out of fashion. This season red is not just restricted to lips. You can try red anywhere on the face be it eyes, cheeks or lips.

Avène Thermal Spring Water spray ` 853 Lakme 9 to 5 Primer Plus Matte Nails Blush Matte ` 250

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• One of the biggest make up trends is to make features appear bigger this season. Use false lashes to open up the eyes and make them appear bigger.

SkinLab Moisturising Cream ` 300

• A healthy glowing skin with natural sheen is what everybody desires, so keep it clean, nourished and moisturised. Using highlighters more than contours is big this season.

Divine Organics Intense Skin Nourishing Night Cream ` 1,095

RITZ BEAUTY

OF WINGS AND WOW Olivia eyeliner ` 70

Lakme Eyeconic Liner Pen Block tip ` 475

Celebrity makeup and beauty expert Gouri Kapur shares five tricks to get your winged eyeliner right …

1. Angle a cello tape towards your temple and stick it. Ensure both sides are stuck similarly. Start applying from the centre of the stuck tape where the line starts to thicken and sweep it till the end - complete your eyeliner till the inner corner of the eye 2. Pen eyeliners work more effectively to create this look as the application precision is higher.

Give your eyes the high definition they deserve. After all they’re your window to the world. Look bold and beautiful and stay in sync with the latest in beauty trends.

The winged eyeliner continues to be every fashionista’s fetish as they can look alluring and sultry when done right, but for makeup novices, it can be a tricky skill to master. Here’s an easy way to master the art right so you don’t end up looking like a panda.

Start by drawing the wing on the outer corner of the eye. Using the bottom lash line as a guide, create a flick from the outer corner in the direction of the tip of the brow.

Now using the point of the flick bring the line inwards towards your top lash line all the way to the inner corner. Make sure you marry both the eyes and fill in the spaces between the lashes by tight lining.

L’Oréal Paris Super Liner Superstar Designer Duo Black ` 899

MAC Rollerwheel Liquid Liner in Black ` 2,090

The Body Shop Lash Hero Fibre Extension Navy Blue ` 1,495

KIKO Milano Perfect Eyes Duo Highlighter Pencil ` 800

Text by NAMITA GUPTA KIKO Milano Luxurious Lashes Extra Volume Brush Mascara ` 850

3. Rubber stamp them with tools available freely online if you’re certain that there is no way you can get it right.

4. First draw a line with a brown pencil liner lightly and once you get it right go over it with a black eyeliner.

Revlon ColorStay 2-in-1 Angled Kajal in Onyx ` 895

5. Similarly draw a line with a brown pencil liner first and go over it with an angled eyeshadow brush dipped in black eyeshadow if your fingers find it difficult to draw thinner lines. It’s easier to get smoother sweeps with this technique.

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BeYu Deep Black Long Lasting Eyeliner ` 900

RITZ spotlight CHENNAI

A FUNCTIONAL A ND GL A MOROUS WOR LD OF FASHION Montage Fashion House is a one-stop destination for urban contemporary styles, an eyeshot to a celebrity’s wardrobe and Chennai’s must-visit boutique.

'I BELIEVE IN MINIMALISM. I BELIEVE IN CREATING BEAUTIFUL CLOTHING THAT LASTS FOR A LIFETIME'

20 RITZ January 2018

' I LIKE TO DESIGN SOPHISTICATED FASHION IN A SIMPLE MANNER'

Text by NAMITA GUPTA

T

hink bespoke and Montage Fashion House will offer you just that. Centrally located at the posh locale of Nungambakkam, just next to the Taj Coromandel Hotel, Montage Fashion House is a popular and spoken about fashion destination in Chennai. Fashion designer Ritika Arya Jain’s designs spell effortless elegance exemplifying hip, contemporary glam silhouettes.

The seeds of becoming a fashion designer had been germinating since her early days. She went on to hone her design skills at the London College of Fashion after completing a Bachelors degree in art and design from Kent University. “I always knew that this is exactly what I want to do. Inspired by my mother’s great love for fabrics and laces, I was easily inclined to choose Fashion as my career,” shares the avant-garde celebrity designer who has styled several celebrities, stars and models of the likes of Gauhar Khan, Taapsee Pannu, Priya Anand, Urvashi Rautela, Amyra Dastur, Lopamudra Raut, Sonal Chauhan, Adah Sharma, Lakshmi Raai, besides many others.

Talking of her signature styles, Ritika, a young entrepreneur in the field of fashion adds, “We do more of fusion wear, besides Indian and traditional.

We focus largely on creative pattern cutting and draping. Besides trends,

Drop in at: 'Anugraha', C Block, Ground Floor, New No. 41 Old No. 19, Uthamar Gandhi Road, Nungambakkam, Chennai. Call: +91 98847 62192.

E-Mail: montagefashionhouse@gmail.com | Follow on Instagram: montagebyritika | Facebook: www.facebook.com/Montage fashion

Montage Fashion House believes in comfortable and affordable luxury fashion. Some of the trending styles currently include structured fabrics like studded Neoprene alongwith sheer voluminous light weight fabrics like layers of chiffon satins, lace and organza presenting a line of sexy yet graceful couture. Our signature monochromes are always a part of every season. Our A/W17 line also has a lot of nudes, silver greys and dull golds with a dash of fuchsia and

smoke blues. Going ahead fringes will continue to be in fashion, embedded onto pantsuits, bomber jackets.

Dresses and tops with plunging necklines will continue to be in vogue.

We also have with us some emerging and renowned clothing and jewellery designers from across the country.”

Step into Montage Fashion House for your fix of pret, resort and couture lines. You can also walk-in for personalised styling sessions and customised outfits.

January 2018 RITZ 21

RITZ spotlight

CHENNAI

“I FOUND MY CALLING IN STYLING” Meet the makeup artist who dons many hats

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Fashion Designer, Stylist and Makeup Artist, all rolled into one, Suresh Menon wears many hats. He grew up watching a lot of fashion shows and glam events, so makeup and styling was always a passion and he started designing at the young age of 18. To further enhance his love for design, he wanted to get into the

whole gamut of styling and makeup too.

As luck would have it, he joined MAC Cosmetics as a full time makeup artist and immediately after was showered with a lot of compliments followed by a bagful of shoots and campaigns.

“In 2017 I worked with many jewellery and clothing brands, as also fashion and bridal events. Bridal makeup has always been my highpoint and I even have a store in Nungambakkam that I’m launching in January 2018,” shares Suresh who likes to incorporate and experiment with bold designs that add a vibrant yet classy touch to his work. Talking of latest makeup trends he states, “It’s about making it a statement and personalising the look. 2017 was about keeping it as natural and minimal as possible with a little pop of colour but in 2018 we will see a lot of colour, bling, shine and metallics. I can’t wait for it!”

Over the years, Suresh's work has landed him numerous accolades like the Youngest Fashion Designer Award 2016, Rising fashion stylist-Chennai besides others. As an individual with a multi-faceted set of talents he is himself a brand to reckon with for his versatile skillsets and his astonishing touch with the brush.

Suresh can be contacted on +91 95660 18148 Keep an eye out for makeup master classes by Suresh and follow him on his Facebook and Instagram handle suresh.menon Address: 8/26 Kalyan Nageshwara Rao road, Nungambakkam, Chennai - 34.

Landmark: Child Trust Hospital January 2018 RITZ

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RITZ spotlight

Jewellery THAT1TOO.COM

CHENNAI

MESMERISING MAKE UP

B

eauty comes from the soul and radiates through the skin and face. So what do makeup artistes do? Well, they help you enhance that beauty.

Prakruthi Ananth, a professional makeup artist who started her career at MAC Cosmetics, moved on to launch her own brand and business venture named Prak At Work! Today after completing seven years in the industry, she has not only worked with many beautiful brides but several celebrities like music director Anirudh Ravichander, actors Shabana Azmi, Priya Anand, Ashwin Kakumanu, Dhanshika, Amitash Pradhan, Manjima Mohan and others.

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Prakruthi was always artistically inclined but her first formal training was when she worked with MAC for 3 years, first as an artist and then as a manager. “With this training, I realised that this was something I loved doing and had a flair for. Apart from my formal training, my skills come from practice and experimentation! The art of makeup is changing so rapidly, that I'm still learning, every single day.

With the opening of the #prakatwork studio, my very own YouTube channel, I landed a spot in the top 15 makeup artists in India via the NYX Face awards. Overcoming my fear of the camera, pushing my creative boundaries,

discovering my love for the sea and realising the overwhelming power of support and love from all my followers has made 2017 my best year ever. The one thing I love about makeup is that the trends are constantly changing. The latest trends that I find myself partial towards right now are metallic and glossy lids for the eyes, berry toned lips and two toned lips which could vary all the way from a subtle ombré to wearing two different shades of the same colour on the upper lip and lower lip. After the big Virushka wedding, the wedding makeup trend now has become super natural and barely-there-natural; makeup where the bride embraces her raw beauty and lets makeup be only an extension of her personality,” shares the makeup artist.

Talking of her experience at NYX, she adds, “Not only did I get to witness the amazing talent that our country has to offer, I got to create and showcase looks that embody messages that were dear to my heart. My first was about social media and its effects on our daily state of mind and my second was about the lack of powerful female characters in the Indian film industry.” Follow the social media sweetheart on Instagram through her handle prakatwork to keep up with her many escapades!

RITZ spotlight

HYDERABAD

NEW YEAR, NEW YOU!

It’s that time of the year again where we strive to bring about some change in our lives as we change our calendars.

Already into a brand, spanking New Year there are a whole lot of people who wish to become a new person too.

Here’s what some of them wish to get done in 2018...

Text: ANAHITA AHUJA

HAMZAH SYED, Management Consultant – Run my first marathon and finish it in under 4 hours. Want to make running a part of my daily life going forward and hopefully finish a lot more marathons.

HEBAH PATEL, Actress – This has been on my mind for a very long time, but it just hasn’t happened. I want to turn vegetarian – because I think it is good for eco-system at the same time not only good for my body, but also skin.

From what I have learnt, being vegetarian also calms you down, and as I already am a very hyper person, I want to see if that helps.

SUNDEEP KISHAN, Actor – The whole of last year, I worked really hard... So hard that I thought I could cheat destiny.

Someone brought this to my notice about how I should sit back and let destiny take its course - and that is what I intend to do this year. About letting things happen and destiny taking its own course, in 2018, I hope to take a chill pill.

JAYANTH C. PARANJI, Director – I intend to stop making shitty films from now on!

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RITZ spotlight

REGINA CASSANDRA, Actress - I really wish to spend a lot of 2018 in the hills.

ADARSH BALAKRISHNA, Actor - 2016 and 2017 were 2 of those years that I made absolutely no resolutions whatsoever. I had just decided to go with the flow and not be rigid in life. Turns out that these 2 years were the most defining and rewarding years of my life!

But I guess I’d want to be more in control of 2018 and therefore I have resolved to not be a procrastinator anymore. I’ve also resolved to learn a musical instrument for sure and pick up a new sport or a martial art. And now that Nirvaan, my son is growing up so fast, there’s plenty of opportunities for me to rediscover the child in me and continue learning. Travel and explorations will continue to be a huge part of my life and I also definitely want to start a business this year. So there’s plenty to be done and I really want to put an end to my procrastinating ways.

DEEPIKA RAO, Fitness Trainer - I have multiple resolutions each year which basically drive me to do things, or see places I hadn’t done before but have been wanting to. It’s about gathering life experiences and this year, I want to go scuba diving and get over my fear of water, get better at food photography, be able to do 20 pull ups and travel through North Eastern India.

TEJASWI MADIVADA, Actress – From what I’ve learnt from the previous year, I hope to not put myself in situations where I cannot laugh. I wish life to come to me in such a way, that no matter how difficult it is, I can laugh through it.

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GEETHIKA KANUMILLI, Designer I resolve to not make any resolutions this hear. I’ve tried them before but they’ve just not worked. Let’s hope I can live up to this one!

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RITZ PERSONALITY

BENGALURU

The

YOUTH He’s a true visionary and his versatility, vitality and passion are infectious. Raised in jet-set privilege, Bengaluru District Youth Congress General Secretary, 27-year-old Mohammed Haris Nalapad, son of NA Haris, MLA from Shantinagar is our young, promising and dapper cover boy who talks about how he looks to his dad for inspiration and the steps he’s taking to deal with the issues affecting the youth in the city.

ICON

Text by NAMITA GUPTA Location Courtesy: ITC GARDENIA, BENGALURU Photos by SANDEEP MV AND PREETHAM HR Video: SHREYAS J SHANKAR Make up: BATUL LAKDAWALA Hair: RIMENE MAIZI

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January 2018 RITZ

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RITZ PERSONALITY is a thankless job and you might do ten good things for someone and no one will remember that, but one do one wrong that and you will be ridiculed and doomed.

One has to keep giving and doing good for others and I’ve found my joy in giving. I’m now a happier person giving back to the society.

When and how did you realise that you wanted to offer your time and services for the society around you?

Every child is usually asked in school on what they want to be when they grow up.

I would always say that I wanted to be the Prime Minister of India even when I was in school and I still cherish that dream.

Somehow my dreams were dwindling after I went to Dubai for my college, as I was nourishing dreams of getting into business and didn’t want to return to India.

32 RITZ January 2018

But soon I found my calling in politics as everyone in my family, including my granddad (NA Mohhamad) and my dad (NA Haris, Managing Director of Nalapad Group of Companies, a businessmanturned politician), have always been inclined towards politics. My father always tells me that a man who lives for himself is not a great person. If you have aspirations to become a great person you have to do something for the society at large. I will always remember his words that politics

After completing your education from Australia and Dubai, you have been working towards the growth of the Nalapad Group International and the NA Haris Foundation and then followed your dad’s footsteps. Were there any challenges that came your way and how did you overcome those challenges?

I returned after my studies at Murdoch University, Perth, Australia and Emirates Academy of Hospitality, Dubai and started working with my dad. We were starting the Nalapad Academy then and the construction started under my supervision.

My dad being the MLA of Shantinagar, had to attend multiple functions in a day and attend to many issues in his area, so I started going out with him to understand the issues that were prevailing and the challenges that people were facing. But at the same time there was another challenge I had to face. Initially, the people wouldn’t accept me and would wonder who is this guy coming to help them. The challenge was to show them my worth and not garner all the respect just because I am the son of NA Haris, but because I am genuinely there to stand up for their problems and help give solutions. I was being compared with my dad and for me to fill those shoes was a humungous task. Soon everyone saw the worth in me and when I started taking their problems as my problems, we touched their hearts and they realised I was not just an MLA’s son, but one with a big heart who cares for them and has leadership qualities.

I wasn’t doing this for any ulterior motives but because I was genuinely enjoying being with people and helping them out. I contested the Youth Congress election in 2017 and was elected as the Number One General Secretary Bengaluru district. Now when I go out instead of my father not only am I accepted, I’m also loved by everyone.

Can you share some of your biggest achievements so far?

In 2017 Bengaluru had the highest record in the history of rain. We are a low-lying area and there are a lot of slums in Bengaluru and those are mostly in between all the developed areas. In Shanti Nagar there are five slums and people live in difficult

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• Your favourite colour: Black and white • Your favourite car: G Wagon • Your biggest strength: My dad • Your ideal man: My father • Your biggest strength: I can speak eight languages. When you talk to anyone in their language they feel good.

conditions and when there’s heavy rain, the water gets flooded as our drainage systems are a few decades old. There was a time when it was continuously raining for five days and the people living there needed help to clear water from their homes. We not just helped them clear out the water and gave them food, but also stayed with them.

This was one of the many things we did selflessly, besides many other things where I went to the grassroots level and looked at their scenario from their perspective and helped them.

I’ve also taken up the issue of addressing the drug menace in Bengaluru with my anti-drug campaign. Drugs are being used and consumed at the early age of 14 and if this is the way it goes then it can completely wreak havoc in the lives of the youth. If we don’t take any strict action now we will be the youngest society in the country that is not in the right frame of their minds. I’m doing my bit to create awareness about the effects drugs can create in our lives. Most of them are taking action and going into rehab only after the damage is done. It might be too late then.

Prevention is better than cure and that’s why creating awareness is our aim and we have already reached over 30,000 people with the help of hosting conferences in schools and colleges.

Also, youth is a time when one is full of abundant energy that one has to direct towards constructive purposes. We need to create alternate sources of enjoyment for our youth so that they deviate from any temptations of consuming drugs. We need to encourage them to play sports. If they can participate in any healthy activity, it will help them to lead a good life. I want to start with awareness and closely work with the government and encourage the youth to take part in sports. My father is the President of the Karnataka State Football Association and we are doing multiple things to promote the sport. Football is a widely loved game and we want to spot raw talent, teach them all the technicalities and bring them to international standards. With 1.3 billion people in India, it’s high time we do justice to the sport of football.

Also, on World Disabled Day last year, we had over 50 disabled kids and seven teams from across the state for the NA Haris Foundation soccer night. All of them felt like real footballers. We also gave them the jerseys and they felt wonderful to be accepted in the society. I don’t like to call them disabled, they are differently abled and they need their recognition in the society.

We also hosted the International Women’s Day again in 2017. We have

been hosting and honouring women from different genres including the pourakarmikas and gave them gifts and made them feel special. They’re doing a thankless job and we took that initiative in 2016 and in 2017 to honour women from all genres and got entrepreneur women and businesswomen, housewives and specially talented people on the same platform. The highlight was the lady metro drivers who were also honoured. We gave gifts to more than 15,000 women that day from the lower strata of the society.

What’s your daily schedule like and who do you thank for where you’re standing today?

I cannot start my day without thanking the women in my life - my grandmother, my mother Thahira Haris and my wife Samreen. We spend such little time with them but still they continue to be our backbone and our support system. My wife belongs to this modern generation, yet she’s always supportive and completely stands by me. I meet hundreds of people everyday and might have mood swings sometimes, but she takes care of the house and me and is a blessing. My dad has been kind enough to give me what he’s given. I consider myself lucky and count my blessings that I didn’t really have to struggle and build my business. My dad has worked for it and I need to sustain and develop it. Hospitality is our core business while we’re also into real estate, construction, education, health care and plantations. I attend a lot of functions and I’m always working on the development of my business. I believe that in politics one should always be giving and not taking.

Unless and until my business didn’t allow me to make enough money for ourselves and our families, we would not have been able to help others through politics.

You have always been a sports lover. Please share all the activities that you’re doing to promote sports and football.

Apart from promoting football and honing young talent at the Karnataka State Football Association, we are also working towards the Santosh trophy which is a prestigious tournament; it’s like the Ranji trophy of cricket. This year we are hosting the tournament under the leadership of NA Haris. We have team owners and stake holders and we are doing it in a big way. The Santosh Trophy will kick off in Bengaluru on January 17 onwards at the Football Stadium.

Do you think you might be missing out on all the fun in your life like others your age, while you’re spending your precious time for the service of the

society and the people at large?

I’m 27 and I try to maintain a good balance between all the three. I take out time for Sunday brunches and sundowners with friends and try to spend time with my family, whenever I can. Giving to the society is more pleasing and satisfying than having a good night out with friends. One needs to balance both and set one’s priorities right.

Yes, there are certain sacrifices one has to make, but no development happens without sacrificing some of your personal pleasures.

My priority is working hard towards a better society. The feeling of giving is bigger than any other feeling in the world. Work life balance is when you need to have an upper hand of giving. My priorities are to build a better society and for that I need to become a part of the government and I have to strive hard towards that goal. One cannot change the world overnight. I have to work with like-minded people for that, be a part of active politics and then go a long way.

What are your other passions?

I have a great passion for cars, watches, clothes and looking good. Although I do sport luxury brands, my style statement is always about “Comfort First”. I wear whatever I feel good in. I never dress for anyone. I dress for myself.

What gives you the adrenaline rush? Are you into adventure sports or adventure travel? Which are your favourite holiday destinations?

I’m an adventure junkie and have tried sky diving, bungee jumping, scuba diving, deep sea diving, paragliding, parasailing, rappelling and angry birds on a stream. I’m into extreme sports and I also play all the games. I was awarded the best player for state in school. I was also the state captain for hockey and also football and basketball.

I believe that sports and activities can change your perspective towards life. One must have discipline in life and set your priorities right. If your priority is keeping your family happy, do it right. Even if one wants to be a homemaker, or if one wants to be the richest person in the world, one has to set their priorities right. I would also like to urge the youngsters to keep giving those in need, inculcate sharing and caring in their lives while surging ahead.

What are your future plans for a better tomorrow, a better Bengaluru and a better India?

I’m working on an agenda. I want to scale great heights in my field and become the prime minister of the nation and I’m working hard towards my dream.

January 2018 RITZ

35

RITZ spotlight CHENNAI

SYMBOL OF

JUSTICE

BY JULIANA SRIDHAR

S

torming into a male bastion is Justice Indira Banerjee who holds the coveted position of Chief Justice of the Madras High Court. She exudes both radiance and confidence. Justice Banerjee hails from a family of bureaucrats. Her father was an I.P.S. Officer and her mother a homemaker. She studied at Loreto House, Calcutta.

She had leadership qualities even as a school student and was a member of the Leadership Training Service-LTS .She was also multi talented and was part of the Literary Society, Debating Society and the Dramatics Club. She was also 36 RITZ January 2018

interested in sports activities and was a part of the basket ball and table tennis school teams.

She graduated from Presidency College, Calcutta with Honours in History. Initially she had dreams of joining the Indian Civil Service, but later she realised that it was not her cup of tea and found her true calling in the legal field. It was only natural that she took up Law. She studied Law at the Calcutta University. While at the Law University, she got a chance to meet and get to know her friend’s father who was

a renowned barrister and politician. She used to visit their house often and liked the atmosphere where father, son and juniors all sat in the Library poring over law books and Journals. She then got deeply interested in the profession and enrolled as a lawyer on 5th of July 1985 and joined the Chamber of Samaraditya Pal who is a famous Constitutional Lawyer of the Calcutta High Court. She also had the opportunity to do a lot of matters as Junior to Mrs Ruma Pal the illustrious wife of her Senior who later on went to become a Judge of the Calcutta High Court and then the Supreme Court.

Justice Banerjee had extensive practice on both the Original and Appellate side of the Calcutta High Court. She was appointed as a Permanent Judge of the Calcutta High Court after 16 years of practice on 5th February, 2002. Till date she has the distinction of being the youngest woman to have been appointed as Judge of the Calcutta High Court. In July 2013, she was nominated by the Chief Justice Of India to undergo training in Judicial Administration at the Civil Services College, Singapore. She was later on transferred to the Delhi High Court and on 8th August 2016, she assumed charge as the seniormost Judge of the Delhi High Court. She assumed charge as Chief Justice of the Madras High Court on 5th April 2017. She is also the Chancellor of the Tamil Nadu National Law School at Tiruchirapalli.

The youngest of three sisters, she has four nieces and is a doting aunt. She has a passion for driving long distances, reading books, travelling and listening to music. She also loves good food and used to love eating out. She loves dogs and has almost always had a pet dog. Her present pet is a Golden Retriever named Prince. She is in love with the State of Tamil Nadu and is in awe of its history, architecture and sculptures. She loves the rich cultural heritage of our State and finds it absolutely fascinating. Even before she took charge as Chief Justice, she was a regular visitor to Tamil Nadu as a tourist and she has visited almost every district.

She has travelled not only across the length and breadth of India but also abroad. She has been to UK , USA , Canada, Europe, Singapore etc. Till she became a Judge, she used to drive to court herself.

to curl up with a book but nowadays time does not permit her that luxury. She also used to watch a lot of films and T.V. shows in her earlier days. However her official duties take up most of her time and she is left with little time for herself. She has not watched any Tamil film till date. Her favourite actors are Girish Karnad and Shabana Azmi.

She has always championed the cause of women and the down trodden. While dealing with Motor Accident Claims, she has always sympathetically considered the claims of the dependant claimants. When the ambulance drivers threatened to go on a strike, she said that they would be doing so at their own risk. She also advised the striking nurses to get back to duty as the people who could not afford to go to private hospitals to take treatment would be most affected. She entertained a Public Interest Litigation and directed the State Government to improve the paltry salary of the nurses.

All her judgements have a humanitarian approach and are delivered without fear or favour. Recently when a picture of school children hanging precariously from buses was shown to her, she immediately ordered suo moto notice to the Government and wanted to know why school students were not provided with special buses and directed them to take steps to provide students with this facility. Justice Banerjee has proved that with determination and dedication, a woman can scale any height. She firmly believes in the maxim that justice should not only be done but also seen to be done.

.Justice Banerjee is very concerned about the issues relating to women and children, especially about the welfare of the differently abled children. She is a voracious reader and loves January 2018 RITZ

37

RITZ personality

g n i r e u q n o C KOCHI

BORDERS, FEARLESSLY She strongly believes that ‘Bold’ is an adjective that has been callously used time and again to portray confident women – “Being confident about expressing one’s feelings or opinions must be the norm and not something that’s ‘extraordinary’…!”

A champion of ‘Equal Rights for All’, she has fiercely stood by her beliefs even when they were termed ‘scandalous’. With no pedigree in Cinema, her struggles and battles have moulded her into an incredible actor who dares to think differently!

RITZ has a candid conversation with Parvathy Thiruvoth Kottuvata, who has been busy winning laurels and churning out back to back blockbuster hits across South Indian Cinema!

Interview: RIYA SONNY DATSON Photography: SHAHEEN TAHA Venue: CASINO HOTEL, WILLINGDON ISLAND Wardrobe: ROUKA BY SREEJITH JEEVAN Make up: SAMSON LEI Fashion Accessory: RARE RABBIT - LULU MALL Footwear: STEVE MADDEN - LULU MALL Photography Assistants: HASEEB HASI & RAHUL RAJ

38 RITZ January 2017

January 2018 RITZ

39

RITZ personality How has life changed after a continuous reel of super hits?

It’s changed for the better.

Commercial success comes with a lot of positive aspects - there is definitely more recognition and visibility now.

But there is also this fear of being branded into a certain category of characters. I would like to portray characters that are from a variety of societal contexts and not just different versions of ‘bold women’ as people tend to put it. I find growth as an actor only when I get to investigate each character and their background this way. Things that disturb me about commercial success is that you get put into an “image” or are seen as a star which leads to unnecessary and unrealistic expectations about the way you are expected to conduct yourself in public. You find it very very difficult to be the true unfiltered you!

Seven years into my career, though I won critical acclaim for my films, there was a period in my life when my phone never rang! But I always had this arrogant faith that if I did good work, it will come back to me - basic Karma. So when I didn’t have projects, I just stayed at home, studied and used the time to complete my educational courses. I was on the verge of bankruptcy when I got through the audition for Mariyaan.

So when finally, movies turned out to be hits, I was terrified at the way my phone was ringing. Though I was thankful and overwhelmed, I was least prepared for it! After the initial shock of it, now I know that it is ok to take a break before I move on. You still have to plant your feet firmly into the ground or you can be plucked out easily and you would have nowhere to go.

It is still the same process no matter how many “hits”, after Mariyaan, I took a break of seven months before signing up Bangalore days. Ten months after Charlie is when I started working on Take off. I am on that recharge period as we speak as well.

40 RITZ January 2017

I respect what commercial success can do for a project in terms of recognition and visibility. However, it will always remain secondary to the success that comes through in terms of hitting the right note with the audience.

Of the 20 films you have done across Malayalam, Tamil, Kannada and now Hindi film industry, the most challenging role would be…

Every single movie has taken a little life out of me but at the same time, that’s how I would like to burn my life. Travelling with each role and spending a little bit of me on it. It’s very hard but only through this do I reap the actual benefit of my craft.

Understanding humanity. I want the way I engage in my craft to make a difference in the society. For the better. I wish for the way I live, to be a true reflection of what I believe in and have that reflect in the art I cocreate.

Backpacking as a mode of travel especially is a magical experience. It forces such unfiltered self-reflection!

Travel to a different destination every day, read up, catch up on current affairs, participate in the society as a citizen, and basically take away all the focus from me. My battery fills up during this time, that’s when the real work happens. It prepares me for when I have to go back to the world of movies.

You are a Vegan, is it difficult to manage that way of life in between busy shooting schedules?

It has not been an easy journey. For a year and a half I was in the best state possible healthwise as a vegan. Until I fell sick during an outdoor shoot due to stress. I was asked to take dairy products and egg whites for speedy recovery. It became tougher while shooting in North India to avoid dairy so I had to become a vegetarian for a few months. I am now on the road to being a full What attracts you to a role? vegan again. It is definitely very The authenticity of the story and the difficult but I am educating myself way the role rolls out in the narrative. on nutrition now. Reading books Most of the time, I instantly know on it and having discussions with when I don’t want to do a particular doctors and nutritionists. I consider project! When I am unsure, I usually eating as a sacred process. Due to sleep on it. The next morning if the “image-conscious”, fat-shaming I don’t remember the role or the society we live in where everyone story, it’s a clear answer. But if it’s has an opinion on what you eat, my unsettling, I ask more questions and study each day now is to renegotiate try to understand the story better. the internal dialogue I have with Some roles don’t even let you sleep myself on what is good for me. You at night because I can’t wait to start are feeding your body and you need getting to know her. I follow my gut to own up to it because this is the feeling more than anything else. Of instrument I use to perform. This course, the chemistry between the comes from someone who has had team of director/writer and I is also an eating disorder, battled depression very important in making the decision and I am a kick ass survivor at that!! as well.

My nutritionist, Sonali Jajodia from Mumbai, has changed my entire How do you rejuvenate yourself after doing perspective on food/nutrition. It’s an intense character? a mindful act full of love. I started I stay at home and try to get back to eating alone happily to steer clear of normal routine. I read, sleep in late, negative energies. When I perform, I cook, make coffee in the evening go through difficult intense emotions after a nap and watch a lot of movies. and it takes a toll on me physically as That’s one way, the other is travelling. well. I need to really take care of my

E V E RY S I N G L E MOVIE HAS TA K E N A L I T T L E LIFE OUT OF M E B U T AT T H E SAME TIME, T H AT ’ S H O W I WOULD LIKE TO BURN MY LIFE

January 2018 RITZ

41

RITZ personality R AP

ID

FI

THE ONE THING People don’t know about me: I hate taking showers!

I adore: The scent of a new born baby!

I detest: Manipulation I Fear: Mediocrity I hate about myself: Procrastination I love about myself: My ability to cry

CONSEQUENCE, I WILL KEEP PUTTING MY BEST FOOT F O R WA R D .

WHEN YOU S TA R T T E L L I N G THE TRUTH, Y O U S TA R T BUILDING SKIN MADE OF T I TA N I U M

42 RITZ January 2018

:

W H AT T H E

RE

N O M AT T E R

body to be able to go through that process. I exercise, go for dance classes and very importantly, I choose my eating partners wisely. To me, it’s more important to feel healthy and strong than to look “pretty” or lean. It is an every day job to be this conscious but I am committed to it.

true, that I create noise when there is injustice. Being quiet just adds to the chaos, it’s a much bigger problem than people who voice their opinion. The quiet ones live their entire life living off other’s enslavement and blaming others. I can’t sleep at night seeing myself as that kind of a parasite in the society. I may never benefit from any You have openly talked about the most taboo of these fights but I know years from things like the casting couch and gender now, the future generation will benefit inequality at work, don’t you feel it would from it. Just like how a Mathura or a affect you negatively?

Bhanwari Devi who never benefited I don’t have any inhibitions because from the rape law at their time, but nobody is indispensable. Cinema will we are enjoying the fruits of their continue even without me and I will struggles and persistence. find some other form of work. Power play and politics will only go so far.

After the recent shocking incident of sexual No matter what the consequence, I abuse of an actress in Kerala, do you think will keep putting my best foot forward. things have changed for the better in the When you start telling the truth, you industry? start building skin made of titanium.

It is changing. Things will definitely At the end of the day, it is impossible not remain the same. People have for me to stay within rigid walls and started talking and educating not do anything about it. I create themselves a lot more about it and my own work, in the sense, those there are active campaigns. It’s a who choose to work with me, will be slow process and it might take years coming to me for the right reasons before any visible change is felt. We now. It is a good filtering mechanism. are up against of decades of hard core patriarchy, which will not change What inspires you to make that noise and overnight. What people need to ‘rebel’? Have you ever felt that it would understand is that we are not against have been better to stay quiet and have peace anybody, we are just asking for equal of mind? existence. We just wish to start the There is a difference between talking process and pass on the baton to the ‘to’ someone and talking ‘at’ someone. future generation.

I don’t engage in a conversation with someone who doesn’t listen to me or You don’t seem to be very active on Facebook. if I feel I am not listening to them.

Instagram seems to be your choice. Why? There are several people like me, The virtual world of social media who believe in ‘Live and Let Live’. I is a dangerous space. After years of would like to quote Albert Camus, exposure to it as well as participating “Sometimes your very existence is in it I have realised that one must an act of rebellion!” Being true to very carefully choose what they yourself, is the biggest revolution you expose themselves to. I am active on can spearhead. You are creating your Instagram. I thoroughly enjoy the own path despite having a society space although I make sure I filter it that would much rather conform you to what I choose to feed myself with. into categories that is comforting for For example the “explore” section on a majority. If it were not for those Instagram is an algorithm decided by wonderful artists of the bygone era the app for you based on what you who created art and made a statement like and what your followers like. So with their life, I wouldn’t be here in my there are times I am exposed to silly/ profession now. Who defines ‘normal’? offensive posts. I make sure that opt Who defines ‘crazy’? It’s us and it’s my out of seeing them as it is an option responsibility to posterity that I stay given on each post you see. Thereby,

cleaning up my feed. I do have a Facebook page and I choose very carefully when to write there. I think the comment section of Facebook has mostly sewage there and there is a lot of cyber-bullying that I will not stand for. It is a space where people have no accountability for their words and actions. I am sure there are many positive encouraging comments as well, but I don’t read the comments section anymore since it can get very nasty. I have a tender heart I must protect it. (Smiles) Best Compliment you have received: Being unrecognisable from one movie to another. That is always a pleasure to hear!

A Meaningful criticism: In the movie, ‘Take Off ’, the character has a mother tongue influence in her English language. No matter how much I tried during dubbing, people felt that there was a Parvathy coming into Sameera’s character. I must pay more attention!

Your Bollywood Outing…Qareeb Qareeb Single!

It didn’t feel like the typical Bollywood type cinema at all! I don’t think I am cut out for the space of candy floss love stories in general let alone the kind you see in bollywood. I would have to change a lot of things about myself to fit in and I wouldn’t want to do that. QQS is romantic comedy directed by Tanuja Chandra. She has always portrayed strong female characters in her films and for me, to do a female lead in her movie with Irfaan Khan was a big challenge. The experience was a roller-coaster ride but was very rewarding.

Upcoming Projects…

Sivaranjiniyum Innum Sila Pengalum is a Tamil film by Vasanth. It is basically three short stories written by Tamil writers. I finished my part of the story in five days with a crew of 15 people but it’s still under production.

The Mollywood movie titled ‘My Story’ with Prithviraj is also under production.

January 2018 RITZ

43

RITZ spotlight

KOCHI

CRAFTING NARRATIVES IN FASHION! In just three years, Rouka has created a niche of its own in the realm of fashion. How has the journey been?

When we decided to start a label, we were clear that we first wanted to create a brand that we believed in and stood for; instead of just creating a product to sell. It was also the time when the first Biennale had happened and it had already set the stage for art and its expression. A lot of my creation revolves around narratives and I believe that there is a ‘connect’ between art and fashion. So, as an experiment, we decided to hold our first exhibition at an art gallery. The David Hall at Fort Kochi obliged. Since the collection was inspired from weather forecast, we decided to hang the clothes from the ceiling to symbolise rain! And people immediately noticed us! Soon we got selected to the Lakme Fashion week and we started to prepare for the

44 RITZ January 2018

One fine day, three young boys are summoned to the Principal’s office.

They were sure they hadn’t been upto any mischief, never the less, they were anxious! As they entered the office, the principal greets them warmly and asks them to take their seats.

She explains that there is going to be an entrance exam conducted by NID and that, she wants them to take the exam. Though relieved, they were not sure what it was all about but since the principal had personally made the request, they decided to go for it. One among the boys who cleared the exam, joined NID Ahmedabad.

He opted for textile design and later joined the international brand, Ikea.

But deep down, he knew he wanted to return to his hometown, Kochi, and start a label of his own. And that’s exactly what he did! RITZ is in conversation with cool young fashion designer, Sreejith Jeevan, curator of the Indian label, ROUKA that is creating waves across the country!

Interview: RIYA SONNY DATSON

show! We were a group of five ‘Gen Next’ fashion designers with my mentor being Anita Dongre. Once you get to exhibit your creation at a platform of that magnitude, things completely change. I had my clothes finding their way to top boutiques in Mumbai, Delhi, Kolkata, Chennai and Bengaluru.

You have designed costumes in the blockbuster movie, Bangalore Days….

That was very accidental. It was the time I had just started the brand. I had made the decision to quit Ikea and return to Kochi after watching ‘Ustad Hotel’ by Anjali Menon. It was a life changing moment for me to watch Dulquer’s character, an NRI, return to his home town in Kerala to pursue his dreams with his grandfather’s support. So I wrote to Anjali to congratulate her about the movie and to tell her how the movie had inspired

RAP

ID

F

IR

Favourite Colour: Navy, Black Favourite Fabric: Offwhite Muslin Must have Fashion Accessory: Brooch Favourite Designer: Rajesh Pratap Singh Showstopper: The Clothes Fashion Philosophy: Being spontaneous

it’s a luxury to feel close to nature now.

E:

What are your price points?

Starting from Rs 1000 to over 15,000.

Describe the Rouka Woman…

She is a multitasker, who embraces the Indian soul, is rooted in tradition, yet is modern in her outlook, is fun loving, calm and elegant.

You recently started a men’s wear line called Rouka Hymn. How would you describe the line?

It’s similar to the Rouka Woman in terms of philosophy, the men’s line is a reflection of me. Every piece in that collection is something that I would wear.

How do you think social media affects fashion?

Big time! I think social media has a strong influence on fashion and trends. The Fashion cycle itself has changed.

The moment you do a show, the collection is out there at the stores immediately else it becomes outdated. I think fashion bloggers, fashion portals, social media – everything affects fashion today.

me to quit my job and return to my hometown to pursue my dreams! She replied asking me to share images of my collection and she was very impressed. She sent the movie stylist over and that’s how Bangalore Days happened.

How would you describe Rouka as a brand?

We are Indian, tropical, Kochi, minimal, ambassadors of everyday living, fun, eclectic and timeless!

What’s next?

We don’t want to stop at being just a clothing brand. We started Menswear recently which has had a good response, we have a small range of home décor. Now we are planning to introduce a kidswear line as well. I find that there is an increasing trend towards wearing quirk across all ages.

Your label is also known as sustainable brand, how popular is the concept of sustainable fashion?

Yes, considering the amount of waste that goes into creating fast fashion, sustainable brands are becoming very popular now.

Rouka uses only cottons and hand woven fabric. The word sustainable earlier meant only handwoven clothing. But now, it has become a larger canvas of ‘clothes with value’ or ‘clothes with a heart’. It could be recycled or upcycled clothes, clothes made out of waste or clothes that help artisans or encourage skill development much like education. We, at Rouka are helping a group of artisans to improve their skill and quality of work. The challenge lies in making sustainable fashion that’s affordable to the customer.

What are your biggest challenges?

The designing bit is the best part but I would say the day to day routine hassles of running a store like filing taxes and keeping records is probably the biggest challenge.

What inspires Rouka?

Everything around! Sometimes nature, festivals, seasons, weather, people. Considering the pace at which we are evolving, I think January 2018 RITZ

45

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RITZ Spotlight

BENGALURU

OF S WA G , STYLE & SASS 48 RITZ January 2018

Sonakshi Sinha exudes a certain confidence and charisma that no one else does and comes across as effortlessly gorgeous in all that she does. In Bengaluru to walk the ramp for designers Gauri & Nainika at the Blenders Pride Fashion Tour 2017, the actor who lives life on her own terms, spoke to RITZ Magazine on her feisty, filmy journey a couple of hours before the show over a candid tête-à-tête in her casual jeans and black tee.

By NAMITA GUPTA

What movies do we see you in the coming months? Any plans to act in movies down South?

Quite a few. Happy Bhag Jayegi Returns, a rom com directed by Mudassar Aziz. We shot for it in Amritsar and Mumbai and will be going to Bangkok for the next shoot schedule of this film in the beginning of 2018.

There’s also Namastey England and Dabangg 3 with Prabhudeva. It will be my fourth film with Prabhudeva. He’s a fabulous director to work with as he gets the massy sensibility bang on and he’s taught me so much, specially the real commercial heroine dance steps.

There’s another comedy produced by Vashu Bhagnani and Wizcraft with Diljit Dosanjh and Karan Johar is also a part of it. Vashuji’s film shoot is over but it’s untitled yet and will release soon. I’m quite a funny person by nature so comedy is something that comes naturally and easily to me and to be working with a talented star cast always makes you want to perform better. I keep getting lot of offers from the South Indian industry, especially after Linga with Rajinikanth in Tamil, but my Bollywood projects are keeping me so busy that I’m not able to take them up. I don’t really plan ahead for the future but I like to make my next year better than the previous year.

How do you manage to keep that calm demeanor despite all the hectic schedules and how do you keep yourself motivated at all times?

It is very important to find something that disconnects you from the stress and timelines of your work. I found solace in painting and sketching. I carry my sketch book wherever I go. Sometimes when I come back really tired from a shoot I go into my painting room and it’s like meditation for me. It releases me of all the stress. When a pen comes to my hand it starts moving and I go with the flow. It could be abstracts, forms, mermaids, faces of animals like tigers and wolves and I also do acrylic. Also, earlier when I was working on multiple films at a time, it was quite crazy, but now I’ve made a conscious attempt to do one film at a time. I don’t let them overlap. The profession is such that the life is so fast that one has to make time for oneself. It’s very important to be healthy inside as well. I catch up with my friends and family. I’m also singing and working on next few singles and I do everything that I want to do. The love that I get from my fans keeps me going. I’m very active on my social media where I direct feedback and I do it all personally. I also love to travel and love scuba diving. Maldives is my favourite and I love the beaches there. I haven’t been to Bali yet and would love to go there.

What is your style statement like?

Who’s your stylist?

I studied fashion design for three years before I became an actor. My personal

style is comfortable smart casuals. If you’re not comfortable you won’t be confident. Mohit Rai is my stylist and he’s helped me in turning around my style. It’s very important to get someone who understands your structure, your likes and dislikes and he always gets it right.

What’s your fitness and beauty regime like?

I usually try and incorporate some time for my fitness training whenever I can, but if I have a busy schedule, then I skip it many times. I do a mix of cardio and yoga and I do like to keep balanced diet throughout the year, but now in the month of December it isn’t easy to diet.

Small lifestyle changes really help. I’m quite a workaholic so I’m usually on my toes and that’s also good exercise. I’m just blessed with great genes. I’m fully taking my parents genes for granted and am thankful to them for giving me good skin. I keep myself hydrated at all times.

Who do you feel closer to – your dad (Shatrughan Sinha) or your mom (Poonam)? Also who are your close friends in the industry?

My mom; she’s like my pillar. She’s like my shadow. I share most of my feelings that daughters and mothers share with her. My closest friends are not from the industry and they’ve been with me since school and college. They’re my true friends and have been there for me even before I became an actor and even afterwards nothing changed. I keep coming to Bengaluru as I have some very dear friends here too.

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RITZ trending now

BAKE BENGALURU

&BLOG

So you love to bake. Who doesn’t like the whiff of freshly baked aromas emanating out of the kitchens. There’s a lot that one can say through food. Baking is an art, a passion, a metaphor for life. And if you’re the one who can bake like a pro and also blog actively alongside, then only sky’s the limit for you. Meet some of Bengaluru’s baker bloggers whose baking blogs will inspire you to move beyond picking up ready-to-eat, boxed bakes that throng the stores.

Text: NAMITA GUPTA BLOG NAME: FLAVOR FLAME FUSION NAME: JYOTHI VARNE BALANCING THE ACT OF BAKING AND BLOGGING: I work as a Human Resource professional in a leading IT firm. I come from a family whose always loved food and believed in cooking up a homely meal with loads of love. My blogging is an extension of this passion paired with photography. I normally bake on weekends, since that’s when I’m free and would love to pamper my sweet tooth.

SPECIALTIES: I mostly bake for my close friends, colleagues and family who love binging on my cakes and cookies. Oran one who prefers to indulge in homemade baked goodies, both savory and sweet.

DOING IT DIFFERENTLY: All my bakes are chemical and preservative free, considering these are made to order and I have a limited menu. So I guess the freshness, quality of ingredients used and right pricing goes a long way in keeping my customers happy.

BAKING TRENDS: Fondant cakes, Naughty or theme based cakes, Gluten free bakes and millet or whole wheat based organic flours instead of refined wheat flour. \ FLOURISHING AND HOW: I think a lot of people realise these days that commercially made food products are not only unhealthy but also not worth the buck. A sourdough bread with nuts and seeds is any day better than the normal sandwich breads I’m the grocery store.

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of art, using fondant, sugar paste and even bean paste for modelling shapes. I also notice a leaning towards baking healthier with ‘naked’ cakes becoming popular, with none of the fancy embellishments. Also trending are the bakes using whole grain, oats, amaranth, buckwheat and our ancient grains like millets. Vegetarian (egg free), gluten free and vegan is steadily going too. There is a use of raw banana flour, potato flour, water chestnut flour and even raw jackfruit flour as alternatives. There is a leaning towards Sourdough bakes, since it’s a natural form of fermentation.

FLOURISHING AND HOW: The home baking business has grown exponentially as people prefer buying from them as non commercially produced food has a greater chance of being healthier since it contains high quality and wholesome ingredients, uses less artificial additives and is easier to customise. There’s also a demand for healthy cakes and cookies as school snacks for their children.

NAME: CAROLINE RADHAKRISHNAN BLOG NAME: WWW.CURRYLINES.COM BALANCING THE ACT OF BAKING AND BLOGGING: I engage in several food related activities such as food reviews, conducting baking classes and organising food based events. My blog is a space that I have created as a repository to document my experiences. My tryst with baking is 15 years old and over the years this obsession has led me to experiment with different ingredients and create my own recipes. The flurry of bakes that I produced, needed people to consume them and this in turn led to put my passion to good use by taking orders and conducting classes.

SPECIALTIES: I’m passionate about teaching and I like to pass on my knowledge and tips and tricks. I receive orders primarily from my friends and those whom they refer me to by word of mouth and at times I have also catered to health food brands by supplying them with my multi millet bakes.

DOING IT DIFFERENTLY: I have attempted to move away from refined flours and sugars and have also reduced the fat and increased the usage of fruits, vegetables, seeds and nuts in my products. My focus was to debunk the myth that healthy is not tasty and I worked towards making whole grain bakes sufficiently alluring. My emphasis is on using whole grains and alternate flours that are locally available, especially whole wheat, oats, barley, amaranth, flax and different varieties of millets. I also use nuts and seeds like sunflower seeds, pepitas, melon, poppy and chia. Fruit and vegetable pulp or puree, make for healthier substitutes and I use them liberally in my cakes. My cookies too are unique and have been created by combining exciting ingredients like candied gooseberry, pineapple, ginger, orange peel with whole grain flours. My masterpiece is a cookie that I baked with jackfruit seed flour.

BAKING TRENDS: While I’m not into cake decoration, I see a lot of work happening in this area. Exquisitely crafted cakes are the rage nowadays and some of them are admirable works January 2018 RITZ

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RITZ trending now

NAME: ANITHA NAYAK BLOG NAME: KELIPAAN WWW.KELIPAAN.COM BALANCING THE ACT OF BAKING AND BLOGGING: Yes, I recently started working for Uber Eats as a food photographer! Since I’m in the space I’m passionate about, I get to do lots in terms of meeting restaurant owners, chefs, other bakers, attend blogger events etc. I make time in between for shoots or when travelling around the city to blog or post about food on my blog or Instagram (@kelipaan).

My husband Keshav Ambuga and I jointly run our Home baking business. Since I’m currently pursuing something else (Food photography that is very dear to me), I do my bit before heading to work or once I’m back from work.

SPECIALTIES: We specialise in buttercream cakes and we adorn the cake only with fondant toppers, we do not cover our cakes with fondant. Our red velvet cake and dense chocolate cakes have been our best sellers.

DOING IT DIFFERENTLY: Floured as a bakery is different from others around, because we offer best of both worlds - a good old homebaked cake, smothered with buttercream and fondant accents used only to adorn the cakes.

BAKING TRENDS: Wholesome, whole wheat and millet baking is currently topping the baking trends currently in Karnataka.

FLOURISHING AND HOW: Home bakers are thriving since everyone now wants to explore and try something different and customise cakes to a whole new level, which other commercial bakeries cannot offer. The attention to detail and the passion homebakers have to what they do is what is making this shine!

NAME: VINITA BHATNAGAR. BLOG NAME: SOULBAKES. BALANCING THE ACT OF BAKING AND BLOGGING: I am a full time working IT professional working with IBM India as a solution manager. I love my job but I always believe in one line which is “keep your job and passion separate”. Job gives me stability and baking makes my soul happy.

After a tiring day in office, baking give me the required dose of relaxation and unwinds me. When I started baking it was only for my loved ones, but then slowly I started taking orders. Blogging about my healthy recipes gives me the sense of accomplishment that I am trying to do my bit to make the world healthy.

SPECIALTIES: I specialise in keto, sugar free, gluten free and vegan baking. Our body does not deserve to have lot of processed junk hence I try to create beautiful healthy desserts.

DOING IT DIFFERENTLY: Usually people associate baking with unhealthy

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ingredients and general perception is if the dish is healthy then definitely it is not tasty.

I am trying to break this myth that healthy cannot be tasty or beautiful. Also I try to make a social impact by taking part in various fundraisers or baking events. I usually try to update my healthy recipes in the blog so that it encourages everyone to try and use healthy alternatives without compromising the taste. I have tried to transform various deep fried Indian desserts in to baked one or with the healthier flours. Also I cater the special segment of people which have dietary restrictions like dairy or our usual flours/ Sugars. My basic skill is to create a dish which is specifically crafted for the person who is ordered and yet can be eaten by all.

BAKING TRENDS: Use of alternative flours, Use of alternative/ natural sugars, Bake at home to avoid store brought foods.

Baking is getting incorporated in different diets like Keto, Gluten free or sugar free.

FLOURISHING AND HOW: I see lot of home bakers trying to cater to various segments depends on the capacity and capability. Though completion is very tough

as big baking store have quite an elaborate infrastructure and tools. But now people are getting aware that home bakers use authentic ingredients and bake on specific demands.

NAME: MEGHA DEOKULE BLOG NAME: ACEFOODIE, i2COOK, BALANCING THE ACT OF BAKING AND BLOGGING: I'm the founder for "i2cook", a consulting firm and one stop solutions to all cafes and restaurants and I also run a homestay in Coorg. When I don't have time to update my blog I microblog through Instagram and Facebook to keep in touch with my readers. I've studied architecture and worked for reputed firms in Bengaluru and Mumbai. Food was my true calling and I decided to switch roles.

SPECIALTIES: I'm a self taught chef and have created my own style of cooking and baking as I’m passionate about food as a subject. I specialise in baking and cooking with unrefined ingredients like wheat flour, millet flours, different types of unrefined sugars and coconut oil. I have also consulted for projects ranging from retail to cafes, creating gluten-free cakes and cookies.

DOING IT DIFFERENTLY: I have never compared my blog to other blogs, as passion can only be collaborative

and not compared. I'm passionate about cooking not only healthy but tasty food. My mantra is healthy food can be tasty too!

BAKING TRENDS: India is a plethora of wide range of food since Vedic times but with time there have been newer ingredients. Lotus roots were a delicacy since Aryan times and honey is one of the earliest sweetener. Our food palette is changing and we are using local ingredients like wheat flour and free range Indian eggs for pasta instead of refined flour like maida for an Italian twist. Substituting unrefined ingredients for baking like whole wheat flour, millet flours or cane sugar instead of white or castor sugar results in delicious and healthy bakes. Eating local and seasonal fruits/vegetables results in wider variety of foods in your diet. My top 5 baking trends for baking are Gluten free baking, Healthy bakes, made with unrefined flour and sugar, Innovative flavour innovation, Fusion bakes and Use of local ingredients

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RITZ trending now NAME: SIMRAN OBEROI MULTANI BLOG NAME: OVENDERFUL HEALTHY BAKING BALANCING THE ACT OF BAKING AND BLOGGING: I work as a freelance consultant in HR and Diversity. I juggle between blogging, running my community, working on Ovenderful as a social enterprise, fundraising and managing my children. I started my dream venture called Ovenderful which was a baking blog only, and now is a social enterprise and niche e-bakery that specialises in healthy and organic bakes. It is also synonymous with a healthy baking community of over 20000 members on Facebook called the Ovenderful Mom Bakers Community (OMBC), started in November 2014 with the intent to share knowledge on healthy baking on a regular basis. The entire community was built on word of mouth recommendations and the value people find in the group. This community has been recognised multiple times.

SPECIALTIES: All my healthy bakes

DOING IT DIFFERENTLY: I am different because I do not work only as a business venture. I am a social entrepreneur and a community leader.

None of the others do this kind of work or building awareness about emerging areas like healthy baking to the extent that I do. My belief is that it is more important to be compassionate, than competitive or competent.

BAKING TRENDS: Healthy Baking using alternative flours, Bread Baking is catching up in India, Using indigenous things like millets, jaggery in something as Western as baking, Baking to raise funds and special diet baking like gluten free, vegan, paleo and so on.

FLOURISHING AND HOW: Baking blogging is growing fast and in all directions! So it is not only growing in size and at a fast pace, it is growing in depth and diversity of the kind of baking that is now happening. So the business is becoming more complex but better since home bakers are able to provide more variety to the end users. job. Soon I realised I should start a blog sharing my food stories. I quit my full-time job and started working as a freelancer in different fields like food photography and food consulting and was actively sharing food stories on my blog. I also started taking Food Photography and Styling workshops.

Specialties: I love millet cakes. Also I bake for people who have specific diet restrictions. I am not against of adapting to the new food and baking culture.

DOING IT DIFFERENTLY: I believe in understanding the science of cooking. While baking, the right temperature matters. Anything that you eat should have balanced flavours.

BLOG NAME: My Cooking Canvas

BAKING TRENDS: On social media the food pictures talk, so I’m very focused on food photography and styling. Those who are new to blogging should always keep in mind that the food pics should tempt others to try the recipe. After all you eat with your eyes first.

BALANCING THE ACT OF BAKING AND BLOGGING: Being born and brought up in a culture where the choice of food was limited I never got the exposure to try any different cuisine apart from Odiya or Bengali. I discovered my interest about cooking and learning new cuisines after moving to Bengaluru soon after my Engineering. I started baking alongside my full-time telecom

FLOURISHING AND HOW: There are you tube videos and Facebook groups where people can learn by themselves. Cakes are not limited to only Birthday celebrations. Now people want a cake for every occasion, be it baby shower, promotion party and all the artistic cakes add to the charm of the event.

NAME: SAIPRIYA

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RITZ food

BENGALURU

ELEVATE YOUR EPICUREAN EXPECTATIONS Let your senses take a journey through the Orient with Bengaluru’s haute new Kitchen & Bar Text by NAMITA GUPTA

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ou’ve tried the Teppanyaki, now make way to the Robatayaki (chicken, meat, seafood and vegetables are slowgrilled to perfection in a choice of yakitori, miso, karashi sauce, Korean gojujan, Chinese hoisin glaze, butter garlic glaze yakiniku or spicy Thai fish sauce over hot charcoal on skewers); you’ve tried the prix-fixe lunches, now tuck in from the Bento Boxes and Donburis (Japanese rice bowl dish with fish, meat, vegetables etc simmered together and served over rice), you’ve sipped on the daiquiris, margaritas and mojitos, now guzzle from pitchers of pimms (a gin-based drink containing a

secret mixture of herbs and liqueurs as an aid to digestion). It’s all about fresh, new, innovative Japanese, Pan Asian and Nikkei cuisine (a mix of Japanese and Peruvian); it’s gourmet with a whole lot of finesse and flair and Anirudh Kheny, Chethan Hegde, Vijayasarathy and Haris Ali, partners, Plate Project Hospitality with their stellar team helmed by Chef Mako Ravindran and Chef Manjit Singh, 1Q1 Kitchen & Bar are here to mince no words, but to focus on mincing and marinating their meats to perfection.

the Art Deco architecture, it is partitioned into an elegant fine dining area for a relaxed sit-down meal, a high-energy space that houses a stage for live performances and DJ nights, an oval-shaped island bar and an outdoor alfresco dining area where you can sit by the robatayaki grill. Conceptualised and designed by Khosla & Associates, the grand sprawling interiors are interspersed with contemporary interpretations. The luxe interiors are marked by soaring vaulted arches, warm lighting, ziggurat patterned frieze artworks and MUST-HAVES: Satisfy your culinary original deco cabinetry. cravings with sumptuous Sui Mai, superlative Sushi or decadent dim CHEF’S SPEAK: Chef Mako sums. Sushi Roll, Rainbow Roll, Lava Ravindran and Chef Manjit Singh, Roll, Umami Prawns, Agedashi Tofu, Food & Beverage Consultants at Hainanese Chicken Rice, Lamb 1Q1 bring their experience in terms Massaman Curry, Korean Bibimbap, of kitchen design and also with the Steamed fish with Oyster sauce, innovative food and cocktails that Har Gaw, Chiken Gyoza, Singapore they promise will change with every Soft Shell Pepper Crab and Matcha season. “Our idea is to keep evolving and Raspberry Ice Cream Meringue and dishing out something to look Cake. Each of the dishes on the forward to every time diners come menu is unique and curated with back. We’re building cocktails from distinct flavours and mild spices that scratch and using rare ingredients do not overpower the essence of the that one wouldn’t normally use, we’re meats, seafood or the veggies.

smoking our cocktails and reducing dependency on monins and creating our own syrups for better control over the taste,” shares Manjit about how he’s literally raising the bar a few notches higher. “There is an enigma in everything as you watch skilled bartenders craft intoxicating cocktails and shake up concoctions with bold new flavours from the orient.

The presentation and the taste vary from dish to dish; the classic sushi is presented traditionally, whereas the South American sushi has a Latin personality,” adds Chef Mako Ravindran.

THE MAN BEHIND THE MAKING: Anirudh Kheny, Partner, 1Q1, says, “It all began with a desire to create a space that we ourselves would love to spend time in and when we chanced upon this location, we knew nothing less than spectacular would do justice to this space with eclectic cuisine, crafted cocktails and entertainment in an ambience that is dramatic.”

WHERE: 1Q1, No.1, Queens Road, Bengaluru-1. Call: 080 4805 0101.

SIGNATURE COCKTAILS: It’s all about handcrafted cocktails and spirited revelry. Try the Smokin’ Jazz, Rising Sun, Devil’s Tail, Berryly Legal, Drunken Love, chilli Bitters, Mulled Wines, Hot-buttered Rum or the Twisted Classics like the Frozen Coconut Daiquiri, Chamomile Margarita, Asian Mule and Smoked New York Sour.

DESIGN: As you enter 1Q1, the simple act of dining transforms into a sensorial experience with a flair for drama. Styled to resonate January 2018 RITZ

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RITZ Food

KOCHI

S TA RT I N G NEWYEAR ON A SWEET NOTE When it comes to health and diet, research now suggests that it's best to ‘Go back to our roots’. The traditional methods of cooking and the use of home grown organic veggies is definitely the way forward. Ritz catches up with the Executive Chef at The Gateway Hotel, Kochi who shares some of his special recipes of traditional yet exotic delicacies of Kerala. Chef Salin Kumar hails from Alleppey and he started his career in crafting delicacies almost two decades ago. He has worked with many leading hospitality brands and has been with the Taj group for almost a decade now. He specialises in Italian, Western, cold kitchen and Moplah styles of cooking.

Compiled By: RIYA SONNY DATSON Photography: BINU AVARACHAN 58 RITZ January 2018

PINEAPPLE KALAN Pineapple Kalan is a sweet yet savoury delicacy of Kerala that is served with rice and curry especially in a Sadya setting.

Ingredients Pineapple 250 gm Turmeric powder 5 gm Chilli powder 5 gm Green chillies 3 Ginger julienne 10 gm Coconut 2 Coconut oil 2 tbsp Cumin Seeds 5 gm Curd 500 ml Mustard 10 gm Fenugreek (uluva) 10 gm Red chillies 4 Curry leaves 2 sprig Salt to taste Method • Select a semi ripe pineapple; peel, core and cut it into cubes. Cook the pineapple with turmeric powder, slit green chilli (1 no.), half of the curry leaves, chilli powder and little water. Add curd and salt to this mixture. Mix well on low flame and allow the gravy to become semi-dry.

• Meanwhile grind coconut, ginger, cumin seeds and green chillies to a fine paste.

Add this paste to the pineapple and cook for 3 minutes on a low flame. Heat coconut oil in another pan, add mustard seeds, next add fenugreek and allow to splutter. Now add the curry leaves and saute it for a while. Pour the seasoning over the curry, check the seasoning and serve hot or cold.

DAT E S A N D M O O N G P R A D H A M A N Dates and moong pradhaman is a rich dessert. This payasam uses moong dal, dates, jaggery and the goodness of coconut milk.

Ingredients Split yellow moong dal 250 gm Dates 150 gm Jaggery 750 gm Ghee 50 gm Coconut milk (thick) 200 ml Cardamom 10 gm Ginger Powder 5 gm Cumin Powder 5 gm Cashewnuts 50 gm Raisins 25 gm January 2018 RITZ

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RITZ Food Method • Clean and chop dates finely. Wash moong dal 2-3 times in water, strain and dry it on a tray. Heat 15 gram ghee in a pan and dry fry moong dal till light golden color. Transfer in to a heavy bottom vessel, add 500 ml water and cook till it softens or pressure cook to one whistle.

• Mash this well with the back of the ladle. Make jaggery syrup in a pan by adding enough water and then sieve the syrup to avoid lumps and impurities. Add this jaggery syrup, chopped dates, cardamom, cumin and ginger powder to the cooked moong dal. Mix well and cook for few more minutes. Add coconut milk slowly, mix well and simmer till it gets the right consistency. Fry the cashews and raisins in remaining ghee.

Add it to the Payasam and mix well before serving.

PUMPKIN ERISSERY Pumpkin Erissery is a traditional dish of God’s Own Country that uses coconut, pumpkin and beans as its main ingredients.

Perfect accompaniment for rice or roti.

Ingredients Yellow pumpkin Black eyed beans Coconut oil Mustard Cumin seeds Dry red chilli Curry leaves Turmeric powder Grated coconut Green chilly Salt to taste

250 gm 100 gm 50 ml 10 gm 5 gm 4 10 gm 10 gm 125 gm 20 gm

Method • Wash and soak black eyed beans for 2 hours. Cook the soaked beans in salted water or pressure cook up to two whistles and keep aside. Next grind 100 gm coconut, jeera and green chilli together and keep aside.

• Peel, remove the seeds and cut pumpkin in to small cubes.

Cook the cubes with salt, turmeric powder, curry leaves and little water till it softens. Add ground paste in to pumpkin, mix together and lightly mash with back of the ladle. Heat oil in a pan, add mustard seed, allow it to pop, add curry leaves and dry chilli, stir for few seconds. Pour the mixture over the curry. Mix it well and check the seasoning. Heat one table spoon of oil and fry 25 gm grated coconut till golden brown and pour it over the dish. Serve hot.

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RITZ food

HYDERABAD

HAPPY AND FAT!

Address: Fat Pigeon, Plot 1335/A, Road 45, Jubilee Hills, Hyderabad Ph: 040 33165170 Timing: 12noon to 12 midnight 62 RITZ January 2018

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lmost setting a ‘before and after’ kind of a benchmark in the night life of Hyderabad, Fat Pigeon, is one watering hole that has enough to offer to everyone who enjoys getting out.

Owned by Ketan Agarwal, Swethan Reddy, Abhishek Oruganti and Chandu Rudraraju, this one-of-a-kind place is a unique bar topped off with a friendly and homely atmosphere.

Based on the concept of a newspaper, the interiors are done up with components of it, with alphabets, posters and off-beat props. The name too, is derived from the concept of pigeons being messengers back in the day, who have now become lazy and hence fat. They now want to invite you to physically come and read their newspaper – giving rise to the name Fat Pigeon. Their tag line “Bar Hop” is derived from the fact that they have four different and unique zones to cater to all segments of people – with a change in ambience, music and crowd – A rooftop bar with live music throughout the week, a sit-out area giving a homely veranda feel, a jam-packed party area, and a relaxed live-counter with a foosball table.

Known for its hospitality, fun cocktails and scrumptious food, some of the must try items on their menu are Headliners, Winter Is Coming, Fat Hats, Fat Pepperoni, Spicy Clay Pot, Achari Gosht and The Fat Burger. Hop in for a fun outing and be sure not to be disappointed.

RITZ TRAVEL

LIVING THE LIFE OF A PARISIAN When in Paris, do as the French do. RITZ gets invited by Atout France India for an exclusive coverage of offbeat Paris and to soak in the sights, sounds and experiences of the exotic kind.

Text VANAJA BANAGIRI

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scar Wilde had said, “When good Americans die, they go to Paris!” Thankfully, I am an Indian and I had the good luck to go there while I am still walking on my two feet in this planet! But guess what?

I did leave my mind behind in Paris. Days after I returned, visions of Paris continued to haunt me every time I shut my eyes.

Known throughout the world as the “City of Light,” Paris is celebrated for its beautiful city plan, its architecture, museums, bridges, cathedrals, parks, shopping, flea markets, sidewalk cafés, wide and luxurious boulevards, elegant cuisine, and numerous monuments. Once confined to an island in the middle of the Seine River, the Ile de la Cité, Paris, founded more than 2,000 years ago, quickly spread to both banks of the river—the rive droit (right bank) and the rive gauche(left bank). The right bank is known for being the commercial heart of the city while the left bank is home to the University of Paris and all that is intellectual and artsy. Paris has always been known to have the aura of romance and mystery and has been the setting for many novels and movies. Lucky us, we get to experience the unusual all thanks to our gracious hosts.

The trip is beautifully and meticulously planned with the right doses of French cuisine, experiences and familiarization with the culture.

On the first day, after a delicious lunch at the hotel’s restaurant, we set off for an exciting side car ride.

As we zip through the city in the side car, suitably dressed in mink coats and helmets, ably chauffeured by the 30 something Julien Gast, cold winds caressing our cheeks, we get immersed in the sights and sounds of the most romantic city in the world, mild drizzle of rain drops making everything seem like a dream. We breeze through Concorde, Champs Elysees, Arc De Triomphe, Eiffle tower and Champs de Mars, with the expert navigation of our gentleman sidecarist.

Our next stop is the Fragonard museum, guided by Nathalie Manceron, who runs a company called Paris a lenvers, that conducts tours in unknown and unusual Paris. True to their claim, Fragonard does turn out to be something we hadn’t expected or experienced. We’re taken through the history of perfumery, Fragonard’s ancestral know-how, the

raw materials used, variety of flowers, the handmade & extraction techniques, the evolving technology, the difference between eau de colognes and perfumes and the art of spraying them. Suffice to say that it was an indulgence of the olfactory senses in a never-before experience. The blossoms, the citruses, the essences and the fragrances lingered on for the rest of the day regardless of what we did or where we went.

Our senses don’t get dulled by the relentless drizzle as we continue our tour with Nathalie’s effervescent company.

She takes us to the Opera House known as Palais Garnier and Opéra Garnier. In addition to being an important Parisian landmark, it is also famous for being the setting of the popular novel, The Phantom of the Opera, which was later adapted into a successful musical and films. The façade is arresting with sculptures of great composers such as Mozart, Beethoven, Rossini, and Auber.

We walk around the city as Nathalie shows us unusual buildings, architectural delights and illusions created by paints and lighting. Our jaws drop as we gap in uninhibited awe of the Parisian vision and refined tastes.

Dinner is at Radio Eat, situated inside Radio France, the auditorium that stages the best concerts and theatre plays in Paris. In the exceptional setting of the Maison de la Radio, with breathtaking views of the Seine and the Eiffel Tower, Eric Wapler and chef Thierry Bassard offer a contemporary and elegant restaurant designed by architect Stéphane Maupin.

With a breathtaking experience on day 1, we were all geared up for something more spellbinding on the next day. As we get done with our breakfast in the hotel, we’re greeted the beautiful French belle Veronique Potelet, Press Center Manager Paris Convention and Visitors Bureau. She tells us that we will be spending first half of the day at a baking workshop. It was an entirely different experience as we were ushered into Le Cordon Bleu, founded in Paris in 1895.

We donned our aprons and chef caps as Pastry Chef, Vincent Valton, took us through a workshop called L’ Atelier du Chocolat. We learnt to bake Bel Horizon Mangue Chocolat, which when translated in English means Beautiful Mango Chocolate Horizon, much to our own amazement and astonishment.

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RITZ TRAVEL The next stop was the iconic Studio Harcourt private mansion, the most renowned photographic studio raised under the leadership of Cosette Harcourt, set up in 1934. Guided by George Hayter, the Secretary General, we discover the legendary and iconic House of the refined Parisian high society. Studio Harcourt is particularly renowned for immortalizing movie stars but also all those who seek elegance.

From Edith Piaf to Halle Berry, Ewan McGregor, Cate Blanchett, Salvador Dali to our own Amitabh Bachchan, all have been immortalised by the Studio Harcourt legend.

After experiencing the magic of lighting, it was time for us to discover what makes Charles De Gaulle airport one of the best in the world. We are introduced to the facilities, the easy arrivals and departures, pleasures of duty free shopping, the exclusive must buys, by the super efficient Fatiha Saouli and Peggy Duvinage.

After an extensive tour of the stateof-the-art CDG airport’s terminals, we head to Laduree, the most prestigious confectionary in Paris and probably the world, reputed for their delectable macaroons. Their hospitality, the delicious spread and the accompanying wine warmed the cockles of our hearts!

Day 3 looks exciting with an iconic Paris tour guided by Balwinder Prabhakar de Bois Juzan whose joie de vivre is quite contagious. Between Ali’s expert navigation and Balwinder’s reportage, we have a fulfilling tour through one of the most spellbinding cities of Europe.

Ali drops us in front of the Arc de triomphe where we are scheduled to meet Veronique again to have lunch of a different kind. In fact, in a different place altogether. The concept is called Bustronome – Gastronomy in a bus and we’re treated to the best delicacies of French cuisine and the choicest of wines as we travel around the beautiful roads of Paris. Turned out to be a novel experience!

We get off the bustronome and walk through the Fashion Street’s high end brand stores, admire the electrifying decor in the windows of Printemps and generally, take in the sights, smells and sounds of Paris.

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We end our last day in Paris with dinner at Annapurna, one of the oldest Indian restaurants, a chic spot for lovers of Indian food. Since 1967, the Annapurna restaurant has been teaching Parisians all about Indian cuisine!

We have a sumptuous meal of onion pakoras, rotis, rice, dal makhni, malai koftas and baingan ka bharta. The portions are huge and filling and the menu has a variety of options for foodies.

As I head back to the airport the next morning, my heart is reluctant to leave and my mind experiences a mild shut down like it does when you’ve a hangover.

You know what I mean, right?

PHOTO CREDITS • Eiffel Tower – Stephanie Rivoal, Paris Tourist Office • Notre-Dame – Stephane Querbes, Paris Tourist Office • Ferris Wheel, Christmas lighting – Jacques Lebar, Paris Tourist Office • Paris Rooftops – Jacques Lebar, Paris Tourist Office • La Seine – David Le Franc, Paris Tourist Office • Notre Dame, La Seine – Amelie Dupont, Paris Tourist Office • Christmas tree – Amelie Dupont, Paris Tourist Office • Square Rene Viviani – Marc Bertrand, Paris Tourist Office RESOURCES, LINKS & CREDITS • www.sofitel.com/gb/hotel-196-sofitel-parisarc-de-triomphe/index.shtml • www.retro-tour.com/en/ • www.parisalenvers.com/en/our-services • www.maisondelradion.fr/page/restaurant-bar • www.cordonbleu.edu/paris/home/en • www.studio-harcourt.eu

January 2018 RITZ

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RITZ corridors of power

LEAN, MEAN AND TECH – SAVVY SUMIT SHARAN, IPS

BY SANJAY PINTO

T

wenty years ago, when a young IPS officer marched straight out of the National Police Academy, the weighing scale read 68 kilograms. The difference today is a negligible 5 kilograms, with the extra weight not around the waist but from his biceps. Except for a few strands of grey hair, this slim sleuth of the `97 IPS batch, defies the 'Then & Now' contrast most photographs portray. No magic mantra for the high metabolic rate. “I just eat sensibly and work out regularly”, reveals Sumit Sharan. Easier said than done in a police job that entails “meals at irregular hours and gallons of tea while on bandobust duty.” The slim build and the regimental discipline probably runs in the genes. Sumit's father A.K.Sharan, a 1965 batch IPS officer retired as the first Director General of Police of the new State of Uttarakhand. And his mother Usha Saran ensured that what was tasty wasn't necessarily sinful.

Roughing it out in the hostel due to his father's routine transfers, Sumit became quite independent minded right from his early years at the Delhi Public School. So when most of his collegemates at Hansraj College, where he pursued an Economics Hons course and later a Masters in the subject at the Delhi School of Economics, either went abroad or took up lucrative corporate assignments, he was among four students who wrote the Civil Services Examination. All of them made the cut, with Sumit acing it with his third strike.

SUMIT SHARAN, IPS, Inspector General Of Police – State Crime Records Bureau.

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A maiden posting as the Additional Superintendent of Police – Srivilliputhur threw the young officer straight into action with the massive Kumbhabishekham. Putting an end to caste clashes and gang wars and detaining dreaded rowdies under the Goondas Act was his priority as the Superintendent of Police

in Tuticorin. A short stint as the Assistant Inspector General at the State Police Headquarters was a prelude to his eventful seven year innings on deputation with the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI). As the Deputy Inspector General of the biggest Anti Corruption Branch in Delhi, Sumit investigated a Land Scam in the Delhi Development Authority & Municipal Corporation. It was jocularly referred to as the Chole Bature scam as the kingpin had begun his career selling the delicacy. When the Common Wealth Games (CWG) Scam came under the CBI scanner, Sumit was the nodal officer. There were a slew of sensational trap cases, notably one revolving around Engineering Colleges and the All India Institute of Technical Education (AICTE).

On his repatriation to the Tamil Nadu cadre, Sumit held dual charge as the Deputy Inspector General and Commissioner of Police of Tirunelveli at the height of the Kudankulam agitation against the nuclear power plant. “I worked to allay the fears of the local people and soon enough the first plant went critical.” Agitations, it appears, followed him in his career.

As the Deputy Inspector General of Villupuram, the Neyveli Lignite Corporation (NLC) workers were up in arms. “We ensured that power generation did not stop at all with sufficient security deployment.”

History was made when the first transgender Prithika Yashini was given the appointment order by Sumit, during his tenure as the Commissioner of Police of Salem. “The young Sub Inspector is now a star in the department.”

In his present role as the Inspector General of Police of the State Crime Records Bureau (SCRB), Sumit, under the guidance of Additional Director General of Police Seema Agrawal, has been proactively rolling out a slew

Photography: Gurunath Prabhu

of citizen friendly initiatives. “The common man need not take a day off to trudge to the police station for routine requests.” Online facilities for Lost Document Reporting, Verification of Second Hand Vehicles and Lodging First Information Reports (FIRs) are now just a few clicks away. “The FIR used to be a big mystery earlier.

It is now system generated. With our View FIR icon, we have made it transparent now.” Sumit's ability to “connect seemingly disparate pieces of information and insights to arrive at a cohesive picture” as his IPS batchmate Saurabh Tripathy wrote in his linkedin recommendation, was honed at the CBI and is being put to use at the SCRB. Don't misread his serious visage.

Sumit can be a lot of fun when he opens up with friends as I recently discovered at a birthday dinner hosted by my close friends Joshua Madan and Susan. The wit of his lawyer wife Rima Sharan, daughter of S.D.Khare, a Chief Commissioner of Customs, who

used to practise in Delhi and is now a Legal Advisor of an IT company, may have rubbed off on him. With their school going children – Shivesh and Ambika, the Sharans enjoy eating out – but in moderation. Whatever calories are occasionally wolfed down must be burned the next day with a five kilometre run at the cricket club. How else do you think the belt buckle has frozen in time?

(Sanjay Pinto is a Lawyer at the Madras High Court, a Columnist, Author, Bestselling Author, TV Political Commentator, Public Speaking Mentor and Former Resident Editor – NDTV 24x7)

January 2018 RITZ

69

RITZ POINT BLANK

NEW AGE CURE FOR LOW BP:

DRIVING IN OUR CITIES!

BY SANJAY PINTO

O

ne fifth of the urban population in South India is estimated to suffer from hypertension. It's a medical research finding.

Everytime you drive on the city's roads, you cannot help wondering if that figure is grossly under-reported. The presence of timers at traffic signals does little to soothe the nerves of blokes at the wheel who keep honking behind you, like there is no tomorrow, the moment the countdown touches 7 or 8 seconds, when the light is still red. This is an early symptom of road rage.

Nervous motorists may be induced to jump the signal and this may result in an accident.

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The Motor Vehicles Act must have a new category of offences like inducement to violate traffic rules. When driving tests are a farce in our country and medical certificates are sold through touts for a hundred rupees, without even seeing the applicants, is it any surprise that you have misfits as drivers pushing up our blood pressure and endangering lives.

The good old traffic guideline to 'Stop, Look & Proceed' has given way to the new rash mantra of 'Honk, Race & Jump Signals'. Earlier, the presence of a cop would be a deterrent.

The new breed of violators just don't seem to care. Driving on the wrong side of the road is the new display of bravado.

There was a time when the violators would sport a sheepish

stopping to pick up passengers in the middle of the road, just at a turning or any odd spot.

Their instinct is to stop at once, the moment a passenger waves, bumper to bumper traffic behind notwithstanding.

The worst of the lot are political vehicles with those banned air horns blaring away. Who cares if the red beacons are off. There's the official symbol of 'immunity' in the form of a party flag and white veshti inhabitants giving you menacing looks. The elected ones are meant to serve us. And this is one way of thanking us for voting them or their party to power. Some Constitutional functionaries of course, are traffic stoppers, by default.

smile. Now, they give you such dirty looks as if you are the offender. God forbid, if they dart across the road from some narrow by-lane or collide head-on with you, don't be surprised if you are greeted with a shower of the choicest expletives; that's after the pan masala is squirted on the road, bazooka style.

Then there are school zones with 'One Way' boards so thoughtfully erected by the traffic police but seldom enforced. I suspect this is a low priority for a wing that is terribly short staffed with more pressing commitments like VVIP bandobust. Ironically, such arrangements meant for the safety of school children, are rendered meaningless by parents themselves who violate the rule and choose shortcuts to beat the morning blues. Such irresponsible folks, and indeed anyone who violates a One Way system near a school, deserve to be booked. The catch is that under the existing Motor Vehicles Act, the offender can only be slapped with a fine of a hundred rupees. Never mind the inherently dangerous act of overspeeding on a One Way stretch with unsuspecting tiny tots crossing the road. We are a country that specialises in knee jerk reactions and only an accident will wake us up. Or will it?

It's not just overspeeding that is a menace. What about overloaded rickety State Transport Buses that ply in the middle of the road at an exasperating speed of 20 kmph?

You cannot overtake them without the risk of being shoved into the centre median. Here, necessary honking will have zero effect. Or share autos that weave their own 'magic' by

But why blame drivers alone? The ubiquitous manhole covers that make their presence felt by jutting out a few inches above the road or sunk inside by a few inches, either way, a perfect death trap, especially for two-wheeler riders, who, remember are wise enough to protect their fuel tanks with helmets. As for car drivers, a swerve may prove risky. Discretion is letting your suspension take the rap. We conquer outer space but don't seem to know how to place manhole covers at the road level.

Crib, crib, crib. What's the solution? Here's one. If officers in key posts drive themselves, incognito, once a week, and get a feel of what the common man goes through everyday, the bumpy rides and the rabid honking at signals, maybe, just maybe, these woes would get the attention they deserve. Till that happens, the new age cure for low blood pressure – twitter, will have company. A two kilometre drive on our city roads. Forwarding whatsapp jokes while driving can fast track results!

(Sanjay Pinto is an Advocate at the Madras High Court, a Columnist, TV Political Commentator, Author, Public Speaking Mentor & Former Resident Editor – NDTV 24x7)

January 2018 RITZ

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KOCHI

UNITED COLORS OF BENETTON PHOTOGRAPHY: Alwin Sebastian MODELS: Students of Rajagiri Kindergarten PROJECT COORDINATION: Dr.Sandra Pradeep and Suraj Rajanandan COSTUME: United Colors of Benetton

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A WILD ADVENTURE

FLYING HIGH!

FISHING TALES!

January 2018 RITZ

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RITZ fashion Location courtesy

g n i z a l B CHENNAI

a path of LIGHT and

LAUGHTER -Maya

A whirlwind of energy, Maya is balancing a lot of different things at the moment. Back from her high of working with the Superstar in 2.0, she is doing impactful roles in a host of big banner productions. That1Too.com catches up with this Theater Artist/Actor/Part-time Clown/Full time Gymnast on what makes her tick.

HOW WAS IT WORKING WITH SUPERSTAR IN 2.0?

It was surreal working with someone with such star power with no demands who can make everyone around him feel comfortable. I learned so much from the brief time I spent on set with him.

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Blue Cotton Denim Jumpsuits ` 3,400 Black Denim Lace - Up Snake Embroidery Peep Toe Ankle Boots ` 2,999 Cage Earring ` 3,800 Adjustable Spring Chunky Bracelet ` 1,290

January 2018 RITZ

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RITZ fashion

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Luba Office Co Ords ` 2,699 Water Drop Geometric Earrings ` 799 CRYSTAL DETAIL STILETTO SANDAL ` 4,139

Location courtesy

January 2018 RITZ

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RITZ fashion

Location courtesy

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WHAT IS YOUR NEXT EXCITING PROJECT? I am thrilled to be part of the play Kira Kulambu by perch. Working with Perch is a dream come true for any theater artist and to have the opportunity one year into working in Theater is just incredible. This play is already a super hit across India and I am thrilled to be a part of it.

Yellow Khadi Checkered Dress ` Hanging Boots Earrings ` Adjustable Spring Chunky Bracelet ` Tri Tone Spiked Stretch Bracelet `

3,500 3,600 1,290 1,190

Yellow Khadi Kimono Top ` 2,250 White Rayon Offshoulder Crop Top ` 650 A-LINE SKIRT ` 3,480 Black Chunk Buckle Detail Ankle Boot ` 3,699 HOW DID YOU BECOME A CLOWN DOCTOR? Clowning is not just an idea, the laughter and joy it provides is a full fledged health care program. But not many people here knew what it was or the importance of it, so convincing the hospitals was quite difficult initially. Once we got permission and we had to execute it,it became too scary as it was the first time and we didn't know how people would react to the things we had planned, like a few magic tricks.

But it actually went on quite well. The very first time turned out to be a fun session with lots and lots of singing and dancing happening around us. So the first experience became a memorable one and made us want to perform more and more of this miracle!

January 2018 RITZ

79

RITZ buzz in'

BENGALURU

SCORCHING THE RAMP

PLATING UP NUTRITION

Models sashayed down the ramp at the 13th edition of Blenders Pride Fashion Tour, a spectacular affair with panache and flair showcased by ace designers Abraham & Thakore and Gauri & Nainika to the eclectic beats presented by Grain Ft. Apeksha

Dandekar, Soundarya & Komorebi at The Leela Palace, Bengaluru.

Fashionistas loved the black and white collections by Abraham & Thakore, while Gauri & Nainika’s creations were a class apart.

t THE COFFEE FOR COFFEE LOVERS

SLN Coffee Pvt. Ltd. entered the retail instant coffee segment with the launch of Levista Coffee with a big bang at ITC Windsor. SLN Coffee Pvt Ltd, a leading manufacturer and exporter of the finest coffee, entered a new chapter of growth in the retail instant coffee segment at a fun and entertainment-filled launch of Levista Coffee. The evening began with the lighting of lamp followed by sand Artist Saravam Patel created magic with his fingers on the stage. Singer Sangeetha Ravindranath kept the mood upbeat next by making N. Sathappan and N. Viswanath, managing directors of the coffee brand shake a leg to her songs. Magician Rakesh Shyam showcased some of his interesting tricks while the guests were served a hot and soulful cuppa coffee.

Unveiling the Levista range of instant coffee, N Sathappan, MD, SLN Coffee Private Limited, said, “60 years of indepth experience in the manufacture of coffee, and ten years among them spent in perfecting the manufacture of instant coffee for our global clientele have helped us formulate the perfect blends for Levista.”

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Chef Ranveer Brar and Philips India celebrated Healthy Living with an interactive and fun evening at Vivanta

by Taj in Bengaluru. Zumba instructor Shwetambari Shetty engaged with the Chef and audience on staying fit and not falling prey to poor lifestyle habits.

Celebrity Chef Ranveer Brar whipped up tasty nibbles and healthy juices for everyone using a range of Philips Kitchen appliances and kept everyone hooked with his sharp wit and magnetic personality. Gulbahar Taurani, Sr Director, Marketing and Business Head Domestic Appliances, Philips, India was also present at the event.

BLOWN AWAY

The newest bar on the salon block will simply blow you away, hands down. Bar? Salon?

Wondering what we’re talking about? Well, Blown is Bengaluru’s finest Blow-dry bar at the chic Vittal Mallya Road address. Conceptualised by jetsetter Menaka Bhandary, Blown is a swish salon that also serves the most exclusive wines on the Indian market curated by Menaka’s sister Meghna.

You can also sip on some award-winning French Wines while you get your blow drys, up-dos and braids, haircuts and colour, hair straightening and cysteine hair strengthening treatments. You will also be spoilt for choice with pedicures and manicures with nail art administered by highly trained therapists. The launch of Blown saw the jet setters Aindrita Ray, Nicole Faria, Ajay Shetty, Jasbir Puravankara, Keerthana Sundaramurthy, Sunita Mankani and many others drop by and wish the founders good luck on their new venture.

Blown away? We surely are…

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Sivakumar and Anitha Sivakumar Shivita

CHENNAI

CONTINENTAL CUISINE & CRAFTY CREATIONS Muthumalar

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H

ide Out Bistro was launched recently in Chennai in association with RITZ Magazine. The menu is a mix of Continental food, with rustic ambience and vintage and contemporary décor. The weekends at the bistro will set the stage for youngsters to showcase their musical talent. Saturday nights are for barbeques and Sundays will be special with mini bars and Sunday brunches. The launch evening started with director Bala’s arrival and the lighting of Kuthu Vilakku.

Craftbox was also launched alongside by Malar, Bala’s wife. Some of the popular faces spotted at the party included VJ Ramya, Harish Kalyan, Suma Harris, wife of music director Harris Jayaraj, Adit Easwaran, Kalaiarasan, and the Managing Directors of Marundeeswara group of companies and Gokulam Chit Funds. Craftbox is similar to a DIY Store where workshops will be conducted by Shivani and others.

Rajesh and Shivani Vinitha

Harish Kalyan

VJ Ramya

Director Bala

Chef Manigandan and Hariharan

Mrs Suma Jayaraj and Gayathri

Kavitha Thomas

January 2018 RITZ

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CHENNAI

TREASURE TROVE

D

iamonds exude elegance and every precious stone speaks volumes about the personality of the person who adorns it. For Samarjeet Kothari of Trezoro Diamonds, selling diamonds isn't just a business but pure passion. His passion for every piece of jewellery matches the tagline of his brand 'Precious by Nature'. Samarjeet has undergone formal training from USA and GIA Mumbai and is an expert when it comes to sourcing the best of diamonds.

He handpicks diamonds from mines using his expertise.

Another exciting feature of Trezoro is their temple jewellery that is handcrafted and a treasure trove for those looking for heirloom pieces that will not only make you stand apart from the rest but also something that can be passed on from one generation to the other. Trezoro has designing, manufacturing and processing teams under one roof and they do not use any machines for manufacturing. Every design that you see at Trezoro is handmade. If you're looking for something exclusive, then they will customise it for you, based on your personal tastes and preferences. This will ensure that the jewellery you buy from Trezoro will be your exclusive collection and no one else can have a copy of it.

Now you can add more grandeur to your life with Trezoro diamonds!

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January 2018 RITZ

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RITZ RSVP CHENNAI

BONHOMIE AND CHEER FOR THE FESTIVE SEASON

V

imonisha Mega Style Souk by Vimonisha events was a two-day fashion exhibition at the Hyatt Regency where designers from across India came together. The designers and ladies of Chennai were seen interacting with the designers over hors d'oeuvres, canapĂŠs and cocktails at the event inaugurated by Radhika Sarathkumar. Many celebrities and actresses were spotted shopping at the two day mega style souk.

Monisha Gidwani, the curator of the exhibition was spotted in a dhoti drape creation by Krimson style studio and show stopping trendy tassel earrings by Desi Bijouu. The chief guests were presented with jewellery by Miranika from Delhi. The tasteful decor was done up by Mehak Wedding Planners.

Monisha Gidwani can be contacted on +91 98200 43549 or Monisha@vimonisha.com

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CHENNAI

A GALA AFFAIR

T

he South India Fashion Association (SIFA) hosted an evening Christmas gala in association with The Westin Velachery. RITZ was the magazine partner of the event. The evening included a grand and well-repsented fashion show and everyone seemed to make the most of their evening that lasted till midnight.

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CHENNAI

A LUXE AFFAIR

The Luxury Affair by Razzmatazz presented a fashion show featuring bridal couture and The Razzmatazz Weddings Awards recently at The Hilton, Chennai.

Day One of the luxury affair saw a fashion show choreographed by Priya Manikandan featuring bridal couture by top designers followed by a live performance from Krishna Iyer & Band. Day Two saw The Razzmatazz Wedding Awards. 24 categories were awarded by actors Akshara Gowda, Sakshi Agarwal, Poonam Kaur and Santhosh Prathap to the winners. The list of winners included - Best Wedding DJ – DJ’s For You, Best Wedding Planning Service – Vikhika, Best Wedding Cake- Adonia, Best Wedding Catering Service- Aadura Catering Service, Best Wedding Florist – Floral Hut, Shribha, Best Grooms Wear Collection- HIS Studio, Best Destination Wedding- Confluence Banquets & Resorts, Best Makeup Artist- Mesmer- eyes makeup, Makeup Artistry by Kavitha Shekhar, Best New Comer – VIVAHA Bridal, Best Wedding Photographer- Fifth Angle Studios, Best Wedding Stationery- Shubh Cards, Best Wedding Outdoor Venue- Gopinath Gardens, Shiva Parvathy, Pushpa Gardens, Best Honeymoon Specialist- Thomas Cook, Best Wedding Film- Studio Vaibhava, Best Wedding BanquetHilton Chennai, Best Bridal Designer- Navyata Designer & Malar Vikram Bridal Couture, Best Makeover SalonWink, Best Wedding Décor- Tara Decorater, Mehek, Best Bridal Collection- Tifara, Best Innovation- Focuzou Solutions Pvt ltd, Best Gift List Service- Wed Tree, Best Bridal Rental Services- Karthik Travels, Opulenze, Best Bridal Mehendi Artist- Rachu’s Artistry and Bridal Brand of the year- JJ Diamonds.

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BENGALURU

Beatrix Morzaria, Sumalatha Ambareesh, Aruna Krishnan, Vinita Hegde and Archana Bagamane

Sanjiv Shanmugam and Aruna R Krishnan

AN EVENING WITH TRENDY TIMEKEEPERS

I

t was an evening soaked in luxury and style as Zimson along with Aruna R Krishnan, RITZ Magazine showcased an exclusive preview of the latest collection of Omega timepieces over cocktails and hors d’oeuvres at Fava, UB City. Sharjeel J, Director, Zimson, leading luxury watch retailer attended to the guests personally taking them through the entire collection curated specially for the evening. The guests sipped on some Chandon sparkling wine, red and white Italian wines, scotch whisky and other spirits and nibbled on some smoked salmon and cucumber cannelloni, chermoula grilled prawn, lamb kebab, pepitoria chicken on melba toast, baked escalivada filo triangles, stuffed mushroom and more from Abhijit Saha’s kitchen. Spotted taking a look at the watches were Sumalatha Ambareesh, Beatrix, Sanjiv Shanmugam, Mohammed Haris Nalapad, Shahid Haq, Mahesh Shenoy, Dineet Dadu, Vinita Hegde, Archana Bagamane, Mikky Singh, Pragya Jain, Arjun Pandalai, Vandana Virwani, Raj Shroff, Manjusha Maheshwari, Jyoti Sachdev Iyer, Vinod and Triveni Hayagriv, Shalini Manglani, Sagarika Ghoshal, Rachana Sehgal, Nirmala besides many others. Zimson stores are located at UB City, Garuda Mall, Forum Mall, Mantri Mall, Brigade Road and at many other locations across Bengaluru, Chennai and Coimbatore.

Shahid Haq Sumalatha

Vinod and Triveni Hayagriv

Shalini Manglani

Rachana Sehgal

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Aruna R Krishnan

Sharjeel J Khan

Gaja Manoj Jyoti Sachdev Iyer

Manjusha

Abhijit Saha and Aruna R Krishnan

Nirmala

Nalini Nanjundiah

Mahesh and Aditi Shenoy

Nirmala and Young

Pragya Jain, Mikki Singh Gupta and Dineet Dadu

Sagarika Ghoshal

Arjun, Vandana and Archana January 2018 RITZ

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Mikky Manjul and Swati Gupta

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Aparna

BENGALURU

ALWAYS AHEAD OF THE FASHION CURVE

I

t was a soiree of fun, fashion and styling tips hosted by Atosa of Mumbai and flagged by Raj Shroff and Barkha Ahuja at Radisson Blu Atria, Bengaluru. The high-heeled set of Bengaluru dropped by to check out the latest collections of clothes and jewellery curated by style icons Aparna Badlani & Azmina Rahimtoola of Atosa, Mumbai. Women entrepreneurs Dineet Dadu of Anand Sweets, Manjul Gupta, Swati Gupta and Mikky Singh Gupta of Bodycraft Spa & Salon, Shruti Malhan of One Roze, Deepti Kore Aradhya of DIANI Jewellery and Binti Arora of Srishti Jewels were honoured.

The classy affair was co-hosted by RITZ Magazine.

Shruti

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Binti

Dineet

Raj, Barkha and Azmina

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