RAHUL RAUT
PUNE, NOVEMBER 14, 2015 | www.thegoldensparrow.com
Fighting fit
role models
From flab to fab, these strong-willed people talk about their journey of losing weight and finding their true selves through sheer hard work and dedication, which seemed impossible to them at one time
Keeping your tummy and pocket full
Now, you can be an artist too
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Indian Tiger
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2 TGS LIFE
NOVEMBER 14, 2015 PUNE
STAGE
Meet the newest artist on the music rack
Artist Dhruv Visvanath’s debut album, Orion, hits the stores this weekend By Salonee Mistry @SaloneeMistry
F
rom the piano to the guitar, Dhruv Visvanath’s love for music only continues to grow. Once he started to learn how to play the piano at the age of seven, music simply took over his life. Not a new face to Pune, this young talent pocket has performed at NH7 and the Baajaa Gaajaa festival. But when he comes to town next weekend, it’ll be the first time that Dhruv would be giving a standalone performance. After Pune, the artist will set the stage on fire with his Constellation tour 2015 in Mumbai, Bengaluru and New Delhi. He will be accompanied by Ishaan Gandhi who plays the drums and percussion, Ashwin Nayar on the electric guitar and backing vocals, Abhishek Mittal on the electric guitar and Amar Pandey on the bass guitar and backing vocals. Dhruv’s Constellation ’15 tour is all about his love for the galaxy, stars and constellations. Most if the songs that are a part of the album are inspired by stars and galaxy. Dhruv’s album consists of songs where in the constellation Orion plays the protagonist. His album falls under the genre of rock opera which is a part of rock music that tells a story,which is told in many parts, songs or sections. Musician and composer Vishal Dadlani’s label, Vishal Likes This, has produced the 14-track album. The tour will start at Pune and then travel to Mumbai, Bengaluru and New Delhi forming the Orion
belt around the country. Growing up, Dhruv only loved two things — music created on his guitar and any literature related to galaxies and the universe. Playing the guitar for nearly a decade now, he has, in a way, formed a unique relationship with the instrument. “Even though the piano was the first instrument I learned and will always be something I love playing, the piano paved way and introduced me to the guitar. The funny shape of the guitar was one of the first things that caught my attention,” the 24-year-old tells us. Being a self-taught guitarist, he has made several mistakes while composing music but he has learned from them too. For Dhruv, the guitar is an instrument that allows him to create music in his own style and say whatever is occupying mindspace. “Music for me comes from a place of sadness because of a tragic loss when I was younger and this is a huge source of inspiration for all the music that I create,” he says. The talented boy from New Delhi prefers instrumental music over lyrical works. “Music has the ability to tell stories and communicate things that sometimes lyrics can’t. If I have to express a feeling, I would prefer to use music to bring out the same emotion in the other person. Instrumental music also gives enough space to the listener to put his or her own story there,” he explains. Dhruv values his family’s support the most. In fact, his mother is the inspiration for the song Redemption. Moreover, he also values the genuine connection and relation that his music allows him to form with strangers. When: November 15, 9 pm onwards Where: High Spirits Café, Koregoan Park
YOUR WEEKLY DOSE OF MUSIC GlowJob Glow in the dark as you move to the beat of 4 DJs across 2 different dance zones at Arc Asia. It is recommended that you wear light colours such as white, yellow or light blue that would help you glow at the party; if not, they will provide you with paint that’d take care of it. When: November 14 Where: Arc Asia, , Koregaon Park
Tribute to Dire Straits Always been a fan of Dire Straits? Enjoy a rendition of their classics by The Backpack at Hard Rock Cafe. They are an amalgamation of some of the most experienced musicians from Pune who have come together to pay tribute to one of the greatest guitarists and bands of all time. The repertoire of the band will include all the greatest hits of Dire Straits, spanning over two decades. They will be joined by guitar legend Derek Julien, who will add his own unique textures and sounds to the band. When: November 19 Where: Hard Rock Cafe, Koregaon Park
The Midival Punditz The Midival Punditz is coming to High Spirits with some great indie-electronica music. The Midival Punditz have since become the most in-demand producers and remixers in India, with remix credits for some of the biggest Bollywood soundtracks such as the 2008 blockbusters Don and Chake De and most recently composing the background score to Karthik Calling Karthik with Karsh Kale. They have also licensed music to some of the hottest Hollywood films like Closer and hit TV shows such as Prison Break and Six Feet Under. The biggest names in the country, this is their only gig in the city this year, so make sure you are there. When: November 14 Where: High Spirits, Koregaon Park
Siddharth Bhardwaj Nobody stands still as the heartthrob from Bigg Boss and Splitsvilla Siddharth Bharadwaj known as DJ Sid takes over the console to groove the city to his Bollywood tunes as Cuba Libre celebrates its first anniversary. So jumpstart the week with his groovy numbers. When: November 14 Where: Cuba Libre, Seasons Mall, Hadapsar
3 Brace yourself for a power-packed performance by Gujarat-based band Aswekeepsearching
Get ready to party
TGS LIFE
NOVEMBER 14, 2015 PUNE
STAGE “Khwaab is a culmination of all our efforts poured in to an attempt in making a record that would surprise and move us. The songs are about life, nature, and emotions”
By Zainab Kantawala @kantawalazainab
H
ead to Classic Rock Coffee Co to catch the very talented band Aswekeepsearching as they unveil their debut album Khwaab. This high energy bands creates a mix of rock and electronic music. They have garnered a small fan base that keeps growing with the popularity of the post rock genre in India. This Gujarat-based four piece band comprises of Uddipan Sarmah on guitars and vocals, Shawn Gurung on the keyboard,
Bob Alex on bass and Gautam Deb on the drums. Their new album Khwaab will have you thinking in a mostly philosophical way, as they conjure ideas of mankind’s journey from oblivion to reality. “Khwaab is a culmination of all our efforts and inspirations poured in to an attempt in making a record that would surprise and move us. The songs are about life, nature, and emotions,” says Bob Alex. The album is based on the theme of lost love, and includes songs like Ativa that defies experimental rock, to the song What if, and the serious closure of B-303, this album amounts to
55 plus minutes of mixed emotions. “We have varied musical inspirations like Cloudkicker, God is an Astronaut, Tycho and any music that has a lot of layers and a wide spectrum of sounds,” says Bob. After two years into their career, it’s evident from their music that they believe in quality over quantity. “The sound of the band started the way you hear the EP, ‘Growing Suspicions’. It’s been an awesome learning experience so far. Initially, we had to play to a crowd of just 10-15 people but having that awesome crowd enjoying themselves and support the band through
the entire set is what encouraged us to move further,” adds Bob. The band has performed at some famous shows, music fests and at public events across the city. They recently went for a tour in Russia playing at venues like the Saint Petersburg Opera House and the Red Concert Hall in Moscow. So get ready to enjoy a spectacular weekend bonanza evening and groove to their popular music numbers. When: November 14 Where: Classic Rock Coffee Co, Kalyani Nagar zainab.kantawala@goldensparrow.com
3 Brace yourself for a power-packed performance by Gujarat-based band Aswekeepsearching
Get ready to party
TGS LIFE NOVEMBER 14, 2015 PUNE
STAGE “Khwaab is a culmination of all our efforts poured in to an attempt in making a record that would surprise and move us. The songs are about life, nature, and emotions�
By Zainab Kantawala @kantawalazainab
H
ead to Classic Rock Coffee Co to catch the very talented band Aswekeepsearching as they unveil their debut album Khwaab. This high energy bands creates a mix of rock and electronic music. They have garnered a small fan base that keeps growing with the popularity of the post rock genre in India. This Gujarat-based four piece band comprises of Uddipan Sarmah on guitars and vocals, Shawn Gurung on the keyboard,
Bob Alex on bass and Gautam Deb on the drums. Their new album Khwaab will have you thinking in a mostly philosophical way, as they conjure ideas of mankind’s journey from oblivion to reality. “Khwaab is a culmination of all our efforts and inspirations poured in to an attempt in making a record that would surprise and move us. The songs are about life, nature, and emotions,� says Bob Alex. The album is based on the theme of lost love, and includes songs like Ativa that defies experimental rock, to the song What if, and the serious closure of B-303, this album amounts to
Recreate Your MIND, BODY & SOUL
55 plus minutes of mixed emotions. “We have varied musical inspirations like Cloudkicker, God is an Astronaut, Tycho and any music that has a lot of layers and a wide spectrum of sounds,� says Bob. After two years into their career, it’s evident from their music that they believe in quality over quantity. “The sound of the band started the way you hear the EP, ‘Growing Suspicions’. It’s been an awesome learning experience so far. Initially, we had to play to a crowd of just 10-15 people but having that awesome crowd enjoying themselves and support the band through
the entire set is what encouraged us to move further,� adds Bob. The band has performed at some famous shows, music fests and at public events across the city. They recently went for a tour in Russia playing at venues like the Saint Petersburg Opera House and the Red Concert Hall in Moscow. So get ready to enjoy a spectacular weekend bonanza evening and groove to their popular music numbers. When: November 14 Where: Classic Rock Coffee Co, Kalyani Nagar zainab.kantawala@goldensparrow.com
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TGS LIFE
NOVEMBER 14, 2015 PUNE
FEATURES
‘Today’s generation knows the value of classical music’
Eminent musicians talk about the present and future of classical music By Heena Grover Menon @HeenaGM
B
eing the cultural capital of Maharashtra, Pune is famous for its rich classical music heritage and houses many prominent musicians. We speak to some of the veterans as well as younger generation of talented classical musicians, who share their perspective on how, despite being a melting pot of new-age genres, classical music remains the most sought after form of music. The city, which has produced maestros such as Pt Bhimsen Joshi, Dr Vasantrao Deshpande, Milind Date, Sanjeev Abhyankar and many more, stays on to be one of the major hubs for musicians who want to establish themselves in the field. At the same time, they are also aware of the fact that the audience for classical music events and concerts is not as enormous as it used to be a few decades ago, for a simple reason that the younger generation is getting drawn towards other forms of music, be it contemporary, folk, pop, rock, jazz and so on. Talking about the current status of Indian classical music, Sawani Shende-Sathaye, a renowned classical singer from the city, says, “I am very fortunate to have been born in this city not because I belong to a family of musicians but the fact that it has so much to offer for people who want to learn the art. Some of the best
Atul Date
Sawani Shende
music festivals are held in this city and there is so much scope to grow as a musician. This is not just from a view point of classical singer but since there is so much happening generally in the music circle that you get a variety. Also, I feel extremely lucky that I have got a chance to learn from some great musicians who are based here, and I didn’t have to struggle too much to find a good teacher.” Being from today’s generation of classical musicians has many merits, feels Gandhaar Amin, famous flautist and son of renowned artist Nitin Amin. “Though Pune has become a hub where several significant festivals take PROMINENT MUSIC FESTIVALS IN PUNE Sawai Gandharva Bhimsen Mahotsav Vasant Utsav Gaana Saraswati Mahotsav Taalchakra Music Festival Naada Bindu Festival Swara Zankar Music Festival
place, I personally feel that classical music is not meant for bigger audiences simply because not everyone is aware of it. Classical music evolved in the palaces and temples where only the connoisseurs would gather and enjoy as they understood it completely,” he says, adding that it’s music for the classes and not masses, perhaps because of which there is a lesser audience for it as well. But on the other hand, many musicians feel that it’s a great time for the young and budding musicians who are from the city or come from different parts of the country to learn here and make their base in Pune. It’s not always that only the people who have the knowledge who attend such events, a lot of youngsters come for concerts simply because they love and appreciate good music. Says renowned Hindustani classical vocalist, Anand Bhate, “There are two aspects of the current trend in classical music. Though it’s true that there are only a handful of people left who actually understand the nuances of classical music, but at the same time due to growing awareness, presence of digital platforms and great music events such as the prestigious Sawai Gandharva Bhimsen Mahotsav and many others, that young musicians and music enthusiasts are being exposed to great artists and their music.” Anand also feels that the rise of internet and technology has a positive effect on the younger generation who want to learn more. “Now, they can access any recordings or concerts and know
Anand Bhate
Gandhaar Amin
Anuradha Kuber
Kartik Agrawal
more about them which pushes them to go out and attend their live performances,” he adds. Agrees Anuradha Kuber, another eminent classical vocalist from the city who also owns a music academy and teaches budding singers, “In our growing up days as students, we were not exposed to so many advanced technologies. There was no internet, and all we had was just a cassette record to listen and learn. But now, students have the best resources to gain knowledge about music, and some of them are fortunately making a great use of the current technology trend which makes me very happy.” For Kartik Agrawal, who came to the city around five years ago from Mathura, UP, shifting base to Pune was one of the greatest decisions. He has been learning Hindustani classical vocals as well as tabla and harmonium since he was 10, and is still learning from one of the gurus in the city. Kartik teaches freshers too, but is more inclined towards singing sufi and ghazal genre of music. “Though I have been learning classical music since childhood, my main motive is to make my core skills stronger. For any musician to excel in his/her field, it’s absolutely compulsory to have their basics strong, and that can only come by having a classical base.” To keep the tradition of classical music alive, Atul Date, son of celebrated Marathi singer Arun Date, started his academy for those who want to excel in the field of different art forms. To give a platform to various musicians and other artists in the city, Atul organises various music and other art events in the city regularly. And on the occasion of Padwa recently, he held a special music evening called ‘Sadabahar Thumariya’ to celebrate eight decades of thumri, a light romantic form of classical music. “My father contributed to the field of music and I always feel that no matter how limited the audience may be, one must keep in constant touch with the roots. And by holding such events, I not only connect the world to our rich heritage of music but encourage the younger generation to adapt classical music forms in making their own music,” Atul shares. Though there is a great deal of new and fresh music forms taking centre stage among the youth today, but still the significance of classical music will remain at the forefront, say the artists. “There is definite change in the way we used to perform for the audiences a few decades back. For example, earlier, people would spend hours at a concert to listen to an artist perform core classical ragas, but with changing times, we have to bring a few fresh elements in our representations. There is a mixed lot of listeners – some are adept with our music, some are not – so we have to come up with music which everyone can listen, enjoy and understand,” explains Anand. There was a feeling that the status of classical music is declining and will be replaced with different forms in the coming year, say a lot of musicians, but with an abundance of great musicians in the city and prestigious festivals and a huge awareness in reviving the classical music scene, the future looks even brighter. heena.grover@goldensparrow.com
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Labour of love A mechanical engineer, a musician and now a pub owner, life is all about experimenting for this 26-year-old entrepreneur
TGS LIFE NOVEMBER 14, 2015 PUNE
FEATURES
By Heena Grover Menon @HeenaGM
A
kzshat Pande dreamed of creating a space for young musicians and artists that would be surrounded by people enjoying great music and a sumptuous fare. Right from his college days, Akzshat wanted to create something he could call his own. Although he doesn’t belong to a business family, his aspiration to become an entrepreneur was so strong that he started planning to achieve his goals quite early on. After graduating from college, Akzshat worked for an IT company as a business analyst and it was during this time that he jotted down a few business ideas which could yield him success. He had also formed his band along with a friend and did gigs around the country. “I was always drawn towards music, travelling and cooking and thought of doing something which could be a combination of all. That’s how this venture started taking shape. The next big challenge was to collect the funds. My family came to my rescue then.” Two years ago, he quit his job and worked day and night to start his own pub which would be one-of-its own kind in the city. Recently, while announcing the launch of AFKThe Alter Figo Kresyndo, Akzshat was overwhelmed with the initial response that it attracted. “I have been planning everything with my team — selecting the interiors, creating a unique menu, setting up the stage for performances, sound
Akzshat Pande
systems and console. I want to give my patrons a personalised experience — be it music, ambience or the food.” Defining the essence of AFK, Akzshat says, “It’s going to be a joint where people can come to take a break from work, enjoy the music that they like and eat the best of food which would be a mix of different Indian and international cuisines.” Because of his travels across many countries and a passion for food, he decided that this pub will have the best of popular cuisines such as Indian, European, Italian, Continental, but with a twist of their own. “A pub is a place where you want spend time with your friends, listen to great music and dance, so the food had to be something that could be served quick and fresh.” Besides, there will be days designated to a particular genre of music every week which Akzshat promises will not be repetitive. Gigs, stand-up comedy shows, special events and concerts will be organised on a regular basis to host fresh talent from everywhere. “I have given the interiors a fine blend of rustic and abstract for people to connect with
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this place instantly. According to the requirements of my guests, we will provide the kind of ambience that they would want for any special occasion.” The pub, says Akzshat, also has a hidden message in its name which a lot of youngsters will relate to. It’s usually used during online gaming and means ‘Away From Keyboard’. “Since this is going to be a kind of breakout zone for many, I thought the name will have a fun impact on the people as well.” AFK will be officially launched on November 27 with a line-up of some gigs and performances. Where: Upper ground floor, Nyati Unitree, Near Gunjan Chowk and TCS, Nagar Road, Yerwada heena.grover@goldensparrow.com
VISHAL KALE
TGS LIFE
RELISH HAND-PICKED DELICACIES OF
NOVEMBER 14, 2015 PUNE
INDULGE
RAJASTHAN Prep up your appetite for a royal gastronomical journey with Maharaj Bhuralal
Maharaj Bhuralal
By Heena Grover Menon @HeenaGM
H
Hing Dhaniya Ke Aloo
Dal Baati Churma
Ker Sangri
Laal Maas
ailing from a family of traditional Brahmin cooks in Mewar, cooking came naturally to Maharaj Bhuralal Prajapati, who joined his uncles in their home catering business quite early on in life. Books and classes somehow never interested him. So, when he turned 13, he moved to Mumbai with his uncle, who used to work in a hotel, and started assisting him in little chores in the kitchen to master authentic Rajasthani and Marwari cuisine. After having worked in the kitchens of numerous five-star hotels in the country, Bhuralal has temporarily made Pune his home. Bringing the flavours of Rajasthan to Pune in his own style this festive season, Bhuralal has created a delicious menu to tickle your taste buds and if you happen to like Rajasthani delicacies served in their tradional manner, Senses at Oakwood Premier Pune is playing host to this rich cuisine for a limited period. Being a vegetarian, the greatest challenge for any chef is to put together a menu, which has all the elements of any given cuisine. But without tasting a dish, how could one get the flavours right? Bhuralal smiles as he replies, “Well, that’s what my job is all about. I have been doing this all my life and with years of practice, I can now prepare anything simply by analysing the aroma, colours and textures. For example, our cuisine can never be complete without the famous Laal Maas, or Rajasthani mutton in red curry. I have
never tasted meat but making it the way it is served in the royal kitchens is my greatest achievements.” At a live dessert station, while frying the perfect mouthwatering jalebis, Bhuralal’s face was beaming when a group of expats asked for another helping of the sinful dessert. “Seeing the satisfaction and happiness on the faces of my customer gives me immense pleasure. I keep switching jobs and cities, not because I get bored of the same old kitchen, but I want to reach out to more and more people across the country through my food so I could touch their lives in some way,” he states. Coming back to the menu, there’s a plethora of dishes you can choose from. For starters, there is Pyaaz Ki Kachori and Aloo Tikki Chaat. In the main course, one can opt for the popular Dal Baati Churma and Gatte Ki Sabzi, two signature Rajasthani dishes. Although the flavours of both the dishes were bang on, we thought that the baatis were a bit dry, something that needs a little more attention. Rajasthan’s famous Ker Sangri was flavourful but people, who don’t have a palette for hot food, might want to avoid the dish. The Laal Maas wins hands down, for its perfect blend of spices and taste and truly ups the quotient of the spread. The Hing Dhaniya Ke Aloo is a great side dish too. After the rich and absolutely decadent meal, there’s hardly any space left for more but skipping the dessert would be a major let down, so end to the feast with a few jalebis served with rabri and kheer. heena.grover@golensparrow.com
YOUR CHOW AROUND TOWN Cheese Festival Cheese lovers ahoy! It’s time to indulge your taste buds and have some weekend fun at the annual ABC Farms Cheese Festival. You can discover and taste exotic cheese varieties along with some yummy homemade German cheesecakes and quiches. Adding to the fun will be chef demos and competitions at the venue. When: November 20 onwards Where: ABC Farms, Koregaon Park
Speedy Pub Lunch Gear up to give your boring lunch routine a break as The
Irish House introduces ‘Speedy Pub Lunch’. With new menus crafted specially for you by the Chef, The Speedy Pub Lunch will bring to you the opportunity to try something different during your lunch time. Pick delectable dishes like Mushroom wrap - peppers and mushrooms marinated in balsamic vinegar and served with roasted potato wedges and house salad; Irish Meat Pie - marinated chicken, smoked chicken sausage and roasted tubers in a spicy wine sauce; BBQ
Grilled Cottage Cheese Steak – topped with creamy tomato sauce. When: Every Monday to Friday Where: The Irish House, Phoenix MarketCity, Nagar Road
Malaysian extravaganza Panash at the Four Points by Sheraton presents Malay Melange – an alluring ensemble of veritable Malaysian cuisine. Diligently selected by Master Chef Sanjay Mitra, it’s sure to enthrall you with its exotic appeal. When: November 17, 7 pm onward Where: Panash, Four Points by Sheraton, Nagar Road
RAHUL RAUT
TGS LIFE
NOVEMBER 14, 2015 PUNE
INDULGE
Keeping your tummy and pocket full From Sabudana Khichdi, Upma, Poha and Idli Sambar, to the much needed sweet-dishes like Gulab Jamun and Shira, here are places that serve great food in under Rs 20 By Salonee Mistry @SaloneeMistry
T
he city sees a rise in the student population every year. Most of the students are always on a limited budget and cannot afford to eat out or eat at fancy places. While some learn to cook and survive, others keep burning deeper holes in their pockets as they continue to source food for expensive places. Apart from the students, several others, who have extremely busy schedules, often tend to skip breakfast as they are always facing a time crunch. Providing an easy solution for all these problems, TGS bring to you three places that are not just healthy and serve some of the best snacks and breakfast items but keep always manage to keep you and your pocket full too. Offering almost everything under Rs 20, these three places are a delight for every foodie and a perfect place for the heavy, healthy breakfast meals and quick evening snacks.
TATYO A small shop right in the middle of the bustling Fergusson College Road, this two-month-old shop is a great place not just for snacks but also for the early morning king size breakfast. Starting at 7 am, the owners and cooks at Tatyo, set about making some great dishes. A unique corn samosa, which has just the right amount of spice, is available for Rs 10 and is extremely filling. The mutterpam, also priced at Rs 10, is quite a best-seller at the joint essentially because it is hardly available anywhere else in the city. Every dish at the joint is priced under Rs 20. Run by Avinash Kamat, 45, and his brother-in-law Rohan Kulkani, 28, the place has become a favourite among the students, who attend the colleges nearby and live in the area too. “We get a lot of crowd in the morning, for breakfast. A special upma that we prepare and serve with different kinds of chutney’s is a huge hit. By 9:30 am, almost everything is over,” says Rohan. One thing that we especially were fascinated and amused by at the joint was seeing Chocolate Gulab Jamun on the menu. The sweet Gulab Jamun is dipped in a chocolate syrup and is lip-smacking good. Where: FC Road, opposite Bhandari Petrol Pump PUROHIT SNACKS CENTRE Passing Shagun Chowk in the morning can be quite the task.
It is not the traffic that is the obstacle but the crowd at a corner on the chowk. The crowd is usually struggling be heard as they place their orders. The stores famous Bread Pattice, Dhokla and Upma sell like hot cakes and Balu Dedhe has not a minute to sit idle. Purohit snacks can be famous for the dishes not the cook, unless he is really popular. “I am fortunate to get so much love. The fact that I know how to cook has helped a lot as it reduces my cost and I can give my customer’s good food at cheap prices. Had I hired people to cook for me, mine would have been like any other stall,” says the 43-year-old. Balu was always interested in cooking and learned by watching his mother cook. His three sons help him manage the business. Among the bestsellers at the joint are the Sangamvada and Kachori priced at Rs 5 while the Dhokla, Rs 20, and Shira, Rs 10, are other things that sell quickly. The soft and fluffy Dhokla and the hot steaming Poha are a musttry whenever you visit here. Where: Shagun Chowk, Narayan Peth GAURAV SNACKS A foodie at heart, Ganesh Maharudrasarde began cooking when he was just 10 years old. He was in standard six when he tried his hand at a food business and set up his own Vadapav stall. Today, after 15 years of working as a hotel manager at two restaurants, he has finally dared to dream of having his own place and has started a small food stall. Working from 7 am to 11:30 am, all the food that is prepared for the day is over and Ganesh packs up to leave for home. Having enough spare time on his hand, he runs a dabba service for the rest of the day. “My day starts at 4 am. I do everything, from chopping the vegetables to cooking and packing the food. There is only one boy to help me out at the stall because of the rush and that is why I can afford to keep my prices so low,” he says. “A few years down the line I hope to start my own mess service as feeding people is all I want to do for the rest of my life,” adds the 40-year-old. Serving us a hot and mouth-watering plate of Sabudana Khichdi, garnishing it with farsan, we realise that the smell was enough to make our stomach growl. The generous quantity is only prices at Rs 20. The other best seller at the shop is Poha and Ganesh easily sells 80-100 plates of it on a daily basis. Where: Nagnath Par, Sadashiv Peth salonee.mistry@goldensparrow.com
TGS LIFE
NOVEMBER 14, 2015 PUNE
FEATURES
Fighting fit role models
From flab to fab, these strong-willed people talk to Heena Grover Menon about their journey of losing weight and finding their true selves through sheer hard work and dedication, which seemed impossible to them at one time
RAHUL RAUT
PINKY WALIA, 40 changing the way I cooked by replacing large amount of oil and ghee BPO TRAINING EXECUTIVE with just one spoon of olive oil while preparing veggies, pulses or It all began one night when Pinky, mother of three grown-up children, even meat.” started dreaming about her life in future and how her weight would Pinky is a big foodie and loves her homemade chicken curry affect her life in the years to come. Merely climbing a few steps would but after she decided to shift to healthy living, she brought about some serious amendments in the food she cooked for the entire make her feel exhausted and all she would do when she felt lethargic family. “Initially, my kids hated what I made but was taking a nap for hours at a stretch. She wouldn’t I researched and started making tasty dishes,” she keep a check on her eating habit, neither would she smiles. do anything extra other than just travelling to and After losing close to 32 kgs, Pinky is a different from her office. Then came a time when she thought person altogether. She has, in fact, become an she realised that she had had enough. “Th is was the inspiration for many at her work place that they beginning of 2014, when I told my husband that I all look up to her when it comes to commitment wanted to change the way my life was moving, he and reaching for one’s goals. Meanwhile, Pinky laughed it away and told me that you can never do believes in pushing her limits every day and has anything and will remain the way. It was a reality also participated in marathons in the city. check for me and I took his words as a challenge. I Pinky’s daily regime enrolled myself to a gym without telling him. I took I start my day at 6 am with a glass of warm water. I a break from work for an year so I could work overall prepare food for my family. The breakfast is served health. I still remember the fi rst day when I decided at 9 am and consists of fruits, oats or poha. I leave to walk to the gym (1.5 kms away) from my house. for work at noon and have my lunch, which consists It was the toughest walk I had ever undertaken and of one chapati without ghee with vegetables cooked the most memorable journey that I had begun.” in one spoon oil, curd with roasted flax seeds Like everyone else who has just started the powder in it with salad, at 1.30pm sharp. I drink process of dealing with their weight issues, Pinky water only after an hour of eating and half-antoo had to go through the hardships. But one thing hour before eating my meal. A cup of tea at 5pm that she was sure about was that no matter what, is followed by a fruit. I have my dinner, which she would never workout using heavy weights at usually consists of sauteed vegetables or vegetable the gym and would rather do floor workouts. “As or chicken soup, at 8pm. Once a week, I stay on a I started getting a hang of things at the gym, I liquid diet of sugar cane juice or coconut water to could feel a difference in my body. I wasn’t feeling cleanse my system. I also make sure I ride to work lethargic as much as I would before joining the gym and back on my bicycle, covering a total of 35 km and that upped my enthusiasm.” THEN: 105KGS as I can’t hit the gym regularly. A few months down the line there was a major The learning drop in Pinky’s body fat. Th is was also the time Losing weight is not about spending lakhs on expensive gyms and when she got to know about naturotherapy and how it can benefit dietary charts. If you set your target right, you can achieve anything your overall health and wellness. “I went for a few sessions and gained through your own will and research power. Watch what you eat and a lot of knowledge about eating right and various other subjects after workout religiously. which I made it a point not to miss any of the sessions. I started
NOW: 73KGS
NOW: 75KGS
AYAN ACHARYA, 23 STUDENT Ayan shifted to Pune three years ago to pursue higher studies. Staying away from home, he became habitual to eating junk and became so unhealthy that he almost lost his self confidence. He would stay away from people and would fear facing his batchmates thinking he wouldn’t be able to strike a conversation with anyone and that no one would like him due to his weight issues. He even suffered an accident because of which he was bed-ridden for close to four months. After spending such a long time in bed, Ayan decided he wanted to get out of the hell that he had created for himself and lead a normal life. Once he got back on his feet, he decided he would begin by brisk walking. He also began by fi rst quitting all sort of junk and unhealthy food and then started going out for walks three times a day. “While I was bedridden, I had lost some weight as I was not able to eat much so when I recovered I thought I should just start going on walks rather than joining a gym and spending a huge amount of money. I would simply wake up at 5am and go on a walk. After college, I would walk again and dinner would be followed by another long walk. In total, I would walk close to 12 to 14 km a day and in four months my weight reduced from 104kgs to 76kgs. Now, it
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KANAK PATIL, 34 EDUCATION COUNSELLOR Her journey to lose weight began after she did a makeover shoot for a magazine two and a half years ago. Kanak weighed around 87 kgs then as she had just started training under a fitness expert but until then she wasn’t serious about working out. After her pictures appeared in the magazine and she received compliments, Kanak thought of giving it a serious shot. “I had just begun my workout sessions with a private instructor and I had lost two kilos. After the shoot, I started thinking that if losing just two kilos can boost my confidence so much, how would it be if I lost more weight?” With the growing intensity of her workouts, came challenges and frustrations, but it was her trainer who helped Kanak be patient and not drift away from her focus. “I was a slave to junk food and aerated drinks. I would find it difficult to even walk a few steps as I would feel lethargic after doing even a tiny activity. I would sleep whenever I wanted and eat whatever I desired. My trainer never stopped me from eating anything. I would tell her that I cheated on a particular day and ate junk, she would just tell me to relax and take it easy. Her attitude and sheer confidence made me stick with my goal.” Kanak lost around 25 kilos in the first four months since she began the workout and diet control. “This was January 2014 and by April, I had lost a great amount of fat through regular floor workouts, power yoga and aerobics in my own drawing room. I have not gone to any expensive gym or taken any sort of pills to reduce the bulge. Initially, the workouts would kill me and I would curse the whole world and wished I didn’t have to do it ever but people around me started seeing the change in my body and would tell me how great I had started to look which pushed me a great deal to keep at it.” Kanak’s daily regime My day begins at 6am and I have a glass of warm lemon water or coconut water followed by a light green tea which I carry along at work as I have to leave from home around 7.20am. I have to be at work at 8am so I carry my meal, which is a healthy mix of chapati, veggies, dal and curd, along. I come back home around 2pm and have a quick snack of fruits and smoothie and then begin my 90-minute
THEN: 104KGS
FEATURES
NOW: 65KGS
THEN: 90KGS workout at 3pm. I have my dinner at 7pm and go to bed by 10pm. No matter what, I don’t skip my workout except for Sundays when I take a break. The learning Exercising has not only made me a healthy and fit person but has also taught me discipline. I am way more confident and positive now and I plan to stay this way for the rest of my life. For all those who are fighting with weight issues, my only giveaway is just stay focussed, no matter how difficult it seems in the beginning. The result may seem tough to achieve but if you keep trying and pushing yourself, you will succeed eventually. I give all the credit to my trainer as she beautifully handled both the mental and physical aspects of losing weight.
keeps fluctuating between 73-76kgs.” Losing weight not just helped Ayan get into shape but also increased his level of confidence. He slowly became more open and started befriending students in his college. His personality saw an upward movement and now he loves to talk and hangout with his friends. Ayan’s daily regime Due to my fairly hectic schedule, I don’t get much time to go out for walks as much as I used to. However, I try and slip in couple of hours of walking every day after college. Weekends are most productive since I get to go out on long walks. Music has been a constant companion during these strolls, helping me focus and stay relaxed. As far as diet is concerned, I try and stay away from fatty food, although I do love eating chocolates, just to satisfy my sweet tooth. The learning I am happy because now I can play cricket without worrying about my weight slowing me down. I feel positive and happy, which was not the case even a year ago. I would run away from people, but now I love being around my friends. I feel healthy and energetic throughout the day no matter how hectic the day is. This has come from just spending a few hours walking. So I believe staying focussed and believing in yourself can take you a long way no matter how hard the distance may seem.
JAMES DSOUZA, 25 SOFTWARE LEAD After several years of living an unhealthy lifestyle, this foodie from Goa decided to change the way his life was moving. James’ journey began in June 2013, when he decided to enrol at a gym. Recalling his first few days of sweating it out, he found exercising next to impossible and would end up vomiting after just a few minutes of starting his training. But one of his close friends encouraged him throughout the tough days. “As I started getting into the groove, I felt more energetic with each passing day. I was a heavy drinker and, being a Goan, food was my weakness. So, my second step towards getting into shape was to quit meat and drinking, which resulted in a drastic fall in my overall body fat. In three months, I lost around 15 kilos but there was still a long way to go.” Along with gymming and controlling his diet, James also started walking every morning for four kilometers. “I started walking and as my energy level started going up, I began jogging and running. Today, I run every day for four kilometers, workout in the gym and follow a healthy diet. There were times when I was low and thought THEN: 103KGS nothing was working out but my friend kept pushing me, saying that I was showing a lot of improvement and that gave me hope.” In six months, James lost around 30 kilos and the fact that people around him – his family and friends – started noticing him and appreciated his efforts, his morale improved. He became even more enthusiastic about exercising as a ritual. James’ daily regime I wake up at 5.30 am sharp and run four kilometres daily followed by a heavy breakfast made by my mother. I take a small snack around 11 am, followed by lunch at 1.30pm at office, which is a
NOW: 75KGS healthy meal available in our canteen. I take another mini snack break around 4.30 pm followed by dinner at 7.30pm. I don’t eat rice for dinner at all and make sure I eat before 8pm as it gives me enough time to digest my food, which is a very essential part of staying fit. My cheat days are Sundays, as I always crave non-vegetarian food such as Biryanis and Kebabs. The Learning Gymming would never help until you follow a healthy diet. It’s the ratio of 70:30, where 70 percent of your overall fitness schedule depends on the food that you eat, when and what you eat and how much you eat. All together your pledge and mindset alone can make the difference. heena.grover@goldensparrow.com
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RAHUL KALIA
NOVEMBER 14, 2015 PUNE
THRILL OF DRIVING By Tushar Burman @tburman
T
he last time we rode a Motomiu custom motorcycle, it was their maiden moto and we were immediately impressed by its finish and rideability. You would expect a motorcycle, custom or not, to be good at its primary function and the Motomiu bikes certainly are. Dare we say it, perhaps more so than their donor vehicles. What you see here is the Motomiu Sabretooth, a re-imagining of a Harley-Davidson Sportster 1200 as a café racer. In particular, this bike started life as a 2011 Forty-Eight, and there’s very little left of it to guess from. “What’s left is the Sportster chassis and engine, and pretty much nothing else,” explains Saurab Shirke, who runs Motomiu Motorcycles with owner Arjun Bafna, who also owns Seven Islands Harley-Davidson in Mumbai. The modifications are extensive, with the entire front and rear suspension borrowed from KTM motorcycles and worked-over to allow for the increased weight. Ah, the weight. Unfortunately, there’s no getting around the weight of a Harley. This appeals to many, as is evident from the large and active owner groups, but is the bane of the café racer, which is all about strippeddown, go-faster goodness. The Sabretooth wears more CNC-milled Aluminum than we’ve ever seen outside of the Discovery channel. The entire front triple-clamp assembly for instance. Or the adjustable rear sets and how they mount onto the bike. Even the exhaust — the entire system — is CNC-bent and created specifically for this bike. The result is a significant weight reduction that’s immediately evident on the go. Saurab is a tall, gangly guy and the two Motomiu customs I’ve ridden, including this one, were made primarily to fit him. I may be a few inches shorter, but I found the Sabretooth to fit me quite well. This is hard to describe textually, since the café stance can be quite extreme. Your legs are bent way up and set quite far back, and combined with the low seat, a full-on racing crouch is the default position. But it works very well. The angle of the bars — CNC-milled Aluminium, of course — is perfect for the seating, and keeps the weight off your wrists, while keeping steering surprisingly light for a bike this size. Crack the throttle and the free-flowing exhaust makes itself evident with a loud, but pleasing v-twin bark that makes you feel like you’re going far faster than you are. Again, based as it is on a Sportster, the Sabretooth changes direction surprisingly quickly. Ground clearance is adequate and you’re unlikely to scrape pegs unless you’re really heroic. The bare-bones badass-ness is clear each time you downshift for a corner: the rear will squeak and step out almost every time. Even u-turns are easy enough to execute, even in the single-lane roads leading up to Amby Valley. The fuel tank, unbelievably, is based on the unit of a Honda Unicorn, sculpted to suit the café style. The large scallops in the tank make the bike feel incredibly slim when you tuck in, and it’s a great confidence booster. Just describing the bespoke work that went into this motorcycle would take a couple of pages. Motomiu’s vision for their work is that it shoulnd’t look like a bunch of aftermarket parts. And that’s the best part about the Sabretooth – it looks like it was designed this way from the factory, not made by a small crew out of Navi Mumbai. Overbuilt, exacting and well-engineered, this is how we think all customs should be. Welcome to #MakeInIndia! OUR THANKS TO MOTOMIU MOTORCYCLES (MOTOMIUMOTORCYCLES.COM)
tushar@goldensparrow.com
People understandably find it hard to believe that much of this motorcycle was made from scratch
INDIAN TIGER You’d be excused for calling it an import. You’d also be only half right
Gear lever assembly is elaborate, but engineered to simply bolt on. Clever mounting too!
I love it when a plan comes together!
CNC-milled aluminium countershaft cover and rearset footpegs look trick and save weight. Exhaust, body panels are also bespoke
The front triple-T is shaped to give the front a bit more height. Headlight hangs off a lattice-work metal bracket that shares bolts with the speedo mount. Elegant.
Airbrushing is adding an oomph-factor to motorbikes across the city, instantly turning them into head-turners By Zainab Kantawala @kantawalazainab
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t’s hard not to have noticed bikes that show off motifs inspired by Spiderman or may be a ferocious lion, if you’ve stepped out of your home in the last few days. The designs have been created using customised airbrushing. The concept helps put a bit of the rider’s personality onto their mean machine. Specialists in the city could, in fact, turn your dull bike into a looker simply by adding a graphic of The Incredible Hulk, or any other superhero that suits your liking. With customised motorcycle painting, everyone will know who you are when you come vrooming into town and that’s a guarantee. The designs are perfect for all biker babes and macho men in town. SETTING A TREND Bike painting as a concept is at its peak in the city right now. Riders make all kinds of changes to their bikes, like adding colour to their helmets, the body of the vehicle and even wheels. Pia van Heijningen is the city’s most sought after mechanic and go-to woman when it comes to airbrushing and modifications. She began motorcycle painting four years ago and has experimented with all kinds of bikes and themes. “Airbrushing helps turn your bike into a dream vehicle with specifications to suit individual tastes. Perhaps, that’s why a lot of youngsters have latched on to the opportunity of modifying and painting their bikes,” she says. The urge to add a personalised touch to turn your ride into an absolute monster is something that got Swapnil Nimbalkar, a professional bike painter, into bike painting. He has been doing this for the past one year, and has customers flocking to
Give your ride a
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NOVEMBER 14, 2015 PUNE
makeover
his store all year round. “Initially, I used stickers on my bike but I wanted to paint it to give it a personal touch. I went took my bike to Mumbai to get it painted by an artist. Since I was always inclined towards art, I thought of taking this up as a
career,” Swapnil says. The craze has gripped city students too. Sham Salvi, an undergraduate student, wanted to bring home a new bike but his father put his foot down. So, Sham chose the next best option and got his old Hero Splendor painted, even adding accessories like a windshield, tail light, etc., at a cost of about Rs 10,000. “I
FEATURES using markers, candy colours and airbrushing for this project,” says Navindar Singh, owner of The Paint Theory. He is a self-taught artist, who banked largely on tutorials uploaded on YouTube. “Custom painting isn’t easy. You require a lot of work, patience, and diligence to do an excellent job,” he adds.
went for the modifications to make my bike look good. After all, riding a good-looking bike makes you feel good yourself,” he smiles. The bikes that usually make it to the modification shed are Royal Enfield Bullets, Yamaha Enticers, Bajaj Avengers, Hero Honda Karizmas, and so on. It takes about a week for the magicians to give your old machine a new look. “The last bike that I painted was for Cricketer Yuvraj Singh’s NGO YuviCan. The bike was painted using colours that feature in their logo. The bike that I am painting right now has numerous illustrations, including cartoon characters and abstract art. I am
Swapnil Nimbalkar with his painted bikes
MIND OVER MONEY Whatever be your motivation to get your bike painted, it will be something you will cherish for the rest of your life. But here’s the kicker — it doesn’t come cheap. The artwork starts from Rs 10,000 and
“Custom painting isn’t easy. You require a lot of work, patience, and diligence to do an excellent job” can go up to Rs 1 lakh. “People coming to me only have a vague idea about what they want their bike to look like but I do suggest certain things that fit into their budget. No doubt, airbrushing is an expensive affair. After all, it gives the best effect. It takes around four days just to create the graphic on one bike then preparing the primer, base coat, etc., can go up to 10 to 12 days,” adds Pia. People want their machines to be different from the rest. It gives them an opportunity to transform their aging bikes into a funky piece of machinery once again. “People don’t want to settle for a normal-looking, stock bike. Instead, they want to customise and personalise it. The most challenging bike that I have ever painted was a Dark-Knight-Jokerthemed bike. It had a lot of detailing and shades. Also, I recently painted Popeye The Sailor Man on a Duke, which was challenging. It took me around 20 days to fi nish that project,” says Swapnil. zainab.kantawala@ goldensparrow.com
SP
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SHOPPING J Pearls charming pearl bracelet
Make a PEARLY WHITE
Made of silver alloy, this pearl bracelet for women is long-lasting and light in weight as well. This pearl bracelet will perfectly complement your ethnic and western outfits as well. Where: Giftease, Koregaon Park Price: Rs 1,800
Button pearl bracelet
Pearl bangles and pearl bracelets, big and small have taken centre stage. This three layer bracelet is a perfect choice for the evening. Where: Pearl Paradise, Sohrab Hall, DP Road Price: Rs 880
statement! P
By Zainab Kantawala @kantawalazainab
earl is ancient but will probably never be out of fashion. Today, pearls have moved far beyond the image of just a classic white strand. Here is our collection from the best stores in town to give you a fresh take on this ancient gem.
Ziveg sterling silver graceful stud earrings Made from sterling silver , these studs have a unique and stylish design. You can team these studs with daily casual of your choice to look smart and trendy. Where: Giftease, Koregaon Park Price: Rs 2,200
Pearl drop earrings
A high-polished cultured pearl can be paired with anything from ethnic to modern. No matter how simple your outfit is, this pair of earrings is sure to add cheer to your look and mood. Price: Rs 13,703 Where: All Tanishq stores
Pearls string
These Multi strand fresh water pink shaded pearls stringed in three lines are perfect for evening wear. Where: Krishna Pearls and Jewellers, Laxmi Road Price: Rs 56,500
Whispering art ring
This 22kt gold plated ring with uncut turquoise and pearls will look gorgeous with a georgette saree. If you like to go minimal with accessories, then this is a perfect pick. Pair it with pearl earrings and your set for the evening. Where: Studio Rudraksh, 4, Lalita Mahal Apartment, Nilgiri Lane, Aundh Price: Rs 2,890
Rasrawa long pearl necklace set
These stylish and eye catching necklace set with earrings are made from pure Austrian Diamonds for the modern contemporary woman. Where: Sia Jewellery, Seasons Mall Price: Rs 1,250
Zaveri Pearl hanging earrings
Long, swinging pearl earrings are the number one fashion choice. These chic pearl danglers are perfect choice for daytime. These sensuous, shoulder-sweeping pearl earrings will accentuate your femininity like nothing else. Where: Shoppers Stop Price: Rs 1,475
Pearl Bangles
Pair these elegant and contemporary designed bangles with ethnic wear and you are set to rock the party. Where: Lagu Bandhu Motiwale, Karve Road Price: Rs 37,170
Now, you can be an artist too
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FEATURES
Under the banner of Pune Urban Sketchers, artists from the city are helping laypersons and amateur artists discover the joy of sketching on location By Zainab Kantawala @kantawalazainab
A
community of artists and art enthusiasts has come up with an interesting way to spend their weekends. They call themselves Pune Urban Sketchers and gather at various historic locations in the city to sketch and paint the structures and people around them. On weekends, they could be found at one of the heritage sites in the city, sitting in a group armed with paper, pencil and colours, engrossed in their artwork. Their art inspiration lies in the stories that provide a background for the sketch. It could be the mighty Shaniwarwada fort, a busy old marketplace, or an old temple. The group is founded by a city-based architect Sanjeev Joshi, who has always been inclined towards art and nurtures a passion for sketching. “This concept is not new at all. It comes from a French phrase ‘En plein air’ which essentially describes the act of painting outdoors. It is necessary to sketch live on location if one wants to tell a story of our surroundings, the places we live and where we travel. There is a global urban sketchers community, which encourages outdoor sketching or drawing,” he says. The group’s first gathering was held three months ago at Jangali Maharaj Temple. The spot is decided by group members, who ensure that it is centrally located and holds a historic significance. The group of 60 active members has now been on nearly ten trips that include sites like Savitribai Phule Pune University, Fergusson College, etc. Anybody can join the group for free. And no, you don’t have to be a professional artist. “None of us are experts, but it’s necessary that you enjoy the activity. Firstly, by sketching outdoors we learn a lot about the places we live in. It helps us grow as an individual and an artist. Drawing together creates a very positive energy. We support each other and draw together,” adds Sanjeev. He carries his sketchbooks where ever he goes, and sketches whenever he finds a convenient spot. “I believe that only when one puts pen on paper, the real observation begins. I do direct water colour sketches, and carry just two shades of paint and a small palette
with me,” he says. Members of Pune Urban Sketchers want to promote drawing on location, telling the story of their surroundings and creating a record of a time and place through their works. They encourage being truthful to the scenes while using any medium and style of art. After the session, they share their works online, showing the world one sketch at a time. “This way we get to see many different ways of sketching. Also, it gives us confidence to draw on location. The freedom of the medium enables group members to capture views in a variety of ways. Sharing each others’ work is also a part of our manifesto. We share our works online and also arrange for demos by artists. We notify our meets through our Facebook page and WhatsApp group. The venues are decided by members’ consensus. There are about 60 members but the number keeps growing every week,” Sanjeev explains. The bunch comes up with a beautiful mix of the old and new of the city through their art. They capture colonial buildings, cars and bullock carts, urban and rural stuff all at the same time. They also love the fact that people are inspired to join them simply by watching them. “Whenever we sketch outdoors, we get a very positive response from the public. It generates an interest amongst the crowd. Sometimes they come and watch us draw as well as also interact with artists. Last week, a veteran sportsperson Shambhu Deshpande printed some of our sketches and presented them to us while we were sketching at Parvati Hill. We were really touched by the gesture,” Sanjeev adds. zainab.kantawala@goldensparrow.com
Sanjeev Joshi at one of the live sketching sessions
NOVEMBER 14, 2015 PUNE
FEATURES
Illustrator, painter, philosopher and an art teacher Ravi Paranjpe is wellknown for painting landscapes and being well-versed with all art trends, old or new
By Salonee Mistry @SaloneeMistry
S
inging through his paintings, Ravi Paranjpe has been an illustrator and painter for more than 50 years. Right from his initial drawings and sketches on the wall, to launching a gallery and studio, the journey has been a great one. In one of the prettiest houses in Model Colony, painted orange to stand out, last week Ravi launched his gallery which houses some of his best paintings, beginning from the 1980s. This was his wife Smita Paranjpe’s dream, he tells us. Dressed in a crisp red kurta and white churidar the man is a perfect example of chivalry, modesty and simplicity. Ravi spent some time talking to TGS about his work, his journey as an artist and illustrator and why he believes his style of painting is different from others. It was way back when he was just five or six that he had learned of his skill to draw and was always marking the walls with
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When ragas inspire artwork
VISHAL KALE
TGS LIFE
the simplest drawings. When he turned 15, it was a collection of illustrations set aside by his father Krishnaji Paranjpe, a high school teacher and art enthusiast, that fascinated Ravi and told him exactly what he should be doing. “Had it not been for my father, I would have probably never known that this is what I wanted to do. The illustrations, in a way, called out to me and I began working on something that I was not only passionate about but something that also intrigued and kept my mind occupied. An artist is born only when he has a breakthrough or feels nice about what he is doing. The feeling of satisfaction when I saw the collection of illustrations was what told me that this is what I wanted to do for a living,” he says. As a child, Ravi loved playing the flute and although the hobby faded over time, he found a way to incorporate music in his paintings. Speaking of his life as an illustrator, he remembers that back in 1960 people did not think much of illustrators. It was difficult to get people to take him seriously and appreciate what he did. Even though he was one of the best illustrators back when he pursued it as a profession, he sincerely wishes that the state of affairs and appreciation given to artists like him was different. Working as an illustrator took him to Nairobi where he lived for three years. It was here that, his name changed from Ravindra to Ravi to allow the residents there to pronounce his name easily. After working for about 20 years as an illustrator with a top advertising agency in Mumbai and Nairobi, he finally decided to focus on his painting. “The painter within me was suffocating because of the illustrator that I had to be. With an illustrator, everything from the subject matter to the final product is regulated by the clients. I did my best to add my style to the illustrations irrespective of these limitations,” Ravi adds. This is why he feels that the painter that he was inside was suffering and
suffocating and he began painting full time to set the painter within him free. For the 80-year-old painter, his inspiration lies in everything he sees around him. What fascinates him and inspires him the most are other Indian art forms and classical music. Ravi assures us that his method or process of painting is a unique one and this is what sets him apart from most other painters. He composes his painting like a musician would compose a tune. For him the subject matter is the raga, his art form or colours and paints are like a bandish and the space within the frame is the space for him to show what he is capable of. He always makes thumbnails of his painting before actually painting the full canvas and this, he believes, makes his work as a painter much easier. He loves painting landscapes and scenes from villages. Having developed a new technique to use oil-colours, he has been doing most of his recent paintings with them and tells us that no matter what you do creativity is the key to being a good artist. salonee.mistry@goldensparrow.com
YOUR WEEKLY DOSE OF EVENTS Me, My Dad and His Girfriends This ‘confused desi’ serves up his take on modern India with a hard to resist rustic humour that will have you nodding your heads and clapping as you relate to everything he says. In ‘Me, My Dad And His Girlfriends ‘Zakir talks about his relationship with his mother and father. He also talks about his dynamics with the world during his childhood, teenage years and adulthood, and one can relate to it easily because at some point in life it has happened to you too! Some characters that he brings out in his anecdotes seem to have been pulled out from your own life. So sit back and enjoy this laughter filled evening. You don’t want to miss this. When: November 19 Where: BlueFROG, Ishanya Mall, Yerawada
Dance Like A Man The story is of Jairaj and Ratna, two Bharatnatyam dancers who have crossed their prime and their Lata who is an aspiring, brilliant dancer. The story focuses on jealousy, tension, family relationships and conflict between generations and other aspects through which this play probes into the surface of the characters to question their deeper motivations. The play is directed by Lillete Dubey and written by Mahesh Dattani. When: November 14 Where: Seasons An Apartment Hotel, Aundh
Anirban Dasgupta: Stand-Up Mondays need not be glum. Independence Brewing Company presents A Best in Stand-Up Evening with Anirban Dasgupta. Anirban, an engineer turned corporate salesman then got married and now he is a comedian now. As
he is being a Bengali is married to a South Indian, he likes talking about inter-community marriages, politics, corporate life, current affairs, social media and so on. When: November 16 Where: Independence Brewing Company, Koregaon Park
Family Tandonices Family Tandonices is a hilarious show where Amit Tandon takes you through his journey of growing up in an Indian middle-class household. Why are Indian men brought up like dogs? Are you really middle class? Why do we hardly talk to a father? Why sons love mothers? Advantages and disadvantages of having kids. He answers it all in his story telling, laidback style. And of course, he talks about his wife. Catch the show at Euriska. When: November 18 Where: Euriska, Koregaon Park
RAHUL RAUT
Keeping the family business alive F
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the place. As this was the environment I or many Diwali brings along with it grew up in and spent most of my time the New Year and everything new. here, I never felt the need to do anything Several businesses on the auspielse. Taking over the business was an cious occasion of Laxmi Pujan worship easy task for me,” says the 55-year-old. Goddess Laxmi and their bill books and Neha S Tikhe, his wife, also helps him account registers in the hope that the with the daily chores at the shop. next financial year shall be a pleasant one. Even with changing times wherein Set in a crowded lane near Appa technology has got the better of manBalwan Chowk, Tikhe Karyalay is wellkind, there are still several businesses known. Right from the hawkers that set and government organisations that folup food stalls in the lane to those that low the good old manual way sell clothes and saris on the of doing accounts. streets, everyone knows where Started way back in 1939, the shop is. In last week of DiTikhe Karyalay is still one of the wali alone, the shop has easily unekar sold over 400 registers and most popular register making and selling shops in this area. orders always keep pouring in Started by Shamsundar Ramthroughout the year. chandra Tikhe’s grandfather the busi“A lot of the customers that used to ness has been passed down for three come to us to have now changed their generations. A BSc graduate by profesfinancial year and now come during sion, Shamsundar from a very young March and April. There are all kinds of age accompanied his father to the shop registers and forms like those needed and developed the interest of managing for property or other government prothe daily operations there. “As a child I cedures, in the shop and so anyone can would always accompany my father to come for whatever it is that they need,” the shop after school or during holidays he says. Many have become tech savvy and it used to be fun to help him manage and prefer the computer but soon they
Skirts for all occasions A
pretty skirt can not only lift your style quotient but can pump up your mood on any given day. So make sure you have plenty of the in your wardrobe of different, colours, designs and shapes, says fashion designer Masumi Mewawalla Pencil skirt: These skirts Masumi Mewawalla have made their way back to the current fashion scene. From top Bollywood actors such as Priyanka Chopra, Deepika Padukone, Jacqueline Fernandes to Sonam Kapoor, have flaunted their perfect curves by making a style statement with these classy skirts in various occasions. Whether you choose a mini pencil or a midi pencil, make sure you choose the right top to enhance the overall look. Pair them with high heel stilettos and rock the streets. Maxi skirt: Casual and chic, these skirts look best in almost all body types and suring any time of the season. Just choose the fabric accordingly and pair them with
TGS LIFE
a tank top or a peasant top whichever you like. Pleated mini skirt: Want to give a little flounce to your outfit while keeping it subtle and elegant? Wear a pleated mini skirt in a nude or metallic shade along with a collared crisp white shirt for a formal outing. Go for strappy sandals to give your look a boho chic touch, just in case it gets too formal. Bodycon skirt: Flaunt your curves a little STYLE with these sassy GURU skirts. Accessorise them nicely by pairing them up with chunky neck piece and a wristlet. A baby pink bodycon skirt with a nude shade lycra top for a day meeting will look perfect if you want to look your stylish best. Denim skirt: An outfit meant for all occasions and all season, this skirt is a definite musthave in your wardrobe. Short or long, it can be paired with tops and blouses of different styles and colours. Whether it’s a fun outing with your friends or a light day at work, it looks stylish and dainty at the same time. Printed A-line skirt: Choose a pattern of your choice, whether geometric, floral, paisley designs, an A-line skirt is perfect for those Sunday brunch outings. If you are picking up a skirt with bright hues, then keep the accessories minimal. Pair them with pumps of a contrasting shade for that extra punch. (As told to Heena Grover Menon)
City
celeb chat
Name: Panchi Bora Profession: Actor Three words to describe me: Beautiful sensitive and loving I love my job because: It’s magical where I can play Alice in wonderland Best advice I’ve received: Bloom like lotus When buying something, the first thing that catches my eye is: It should appeal my heart What’s your inner animal? Ego which I try to tame The first thing you notice about an attractive person: Eyes which speaks its own story The perfect start to a day is: Yoga Your fitness regimen: Yoga, dance and gym Your food indulgence: In love with Indian food Books by your bedside: You Can Heal Your Life by Louise L Hay The first site you visit when you fire up your comp: Google Your favourite city: Has to be Pune Ideal holiday: Austrailia (As told to Zainab Kantawala)
FEATURES get tired of the virus and technological malfunctions and tend to shift back to the registers, he adds. Working throughout the year, the shop is shut only on Sunday and during Diwali and the months of March and April is often bustling with people trying to source registers and account books from Shamsundar’s shop. Not quite sure if his children would want to follow in his business, he hopes that at least one out of the two try and carry the family tradition ahead. Every cabinet in Tikhe Karyalay has registers of all shapes, sizes, colours and with different paper textures. Opening the shop at 9:30 in the morning and pulling the shutters down at around 8:30 at night, Shamsundar’s life pretty much revolves around these registers and he has absolutely no qualms about it. (As told to Salonee Mistry)
I DESERVE CRITICISM FOR MY BOX-OFFICE FAILURES: RANBIR
TGS LIFE NOVEMBER 14, 2015 PUNE
BUZZ
Awkward growing up in front of everyone: Selena
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elena Gomez’s life has been constantly under scrutiny ever since she started her showbiz journey at the age of seven and the former Disney star says it is strange to grow up in the public eye. The 23-year-old singer, however, is keen to prove herself despite the constant focus on her personal life. “I have lived some life. I now get it. My goals have surpassed me. I just want to keep striving. There have been a lot of ups and downs. It is really awkward growing up in front of everybody. I am just trying to figure out how to do it,” Gomez said. Her romance with pop star Justin Bieber was a constant fodder for paparazzi but Gomez says she does not regret it and her song Heart Wants What It Wants was her way of talking about it. “It is obvious I have been in love. I don’t regret anything. I wholeheartedly loved someone and I don’t regret that at all. The song was my way of talking about what everybody was talking about. It was
not bashing. It was like ‘I don’t care what people say, this is what I felt, this is what I feel and this is how I am going to say it’. Then I left it alone.” Gomez says people may fi nd it hard to believe but nothing has come easy to her. The Spring Breakers star says she believes in fighting for good roles but there are days when she struggles with self-doubt. “I go to auditions and fight for roles. I have to prove myself constantly and nothing is offered easily to me. I don’t think people have seen half of what I can do but I believe in myself... someday I don’t, I am super insecure. But I feel I haven’t even scratched the surface of what I can do.” Playing Mavis in Hotel Transylvania has been a great experience for Gomez and the young star says there are a lot of things in her role that she identifies with in real life. “Her dad loves her but she also kind of wants to explore, meet people and get out of her comfort zone. I think that’s very much like me.”
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ith three back-to-back flops behind his back, Ranbir Kapoor is surrounded by scepticism ahead of his next release Tamasha and the actor feels he deserves every bit of it as he should be held accountable for the movie choices he made in the past. The 33-year-old actor, who has for the majority part of his career been touted as the biggest star of the current generation, has faced a lot of criticism lately after his comedy Besharam, Roy and Anurag Kashyap-directed period drama Bombay Velvet bombed at the box-office. “I don’t think critics have been harsh on me. I have got amazing response for most of my fi lms. So, I deserve this criticism because those were my choices. I have been lucky enough to have got a lot of support from my fans. I took all the praise with a big heart so I should take the criticism well too,” Ranbir said in an interview here. The actor said he is unsure whether he would be able to gain confidence of viewers again but he has a desire to prove himself. “People should feel sceptical about me. It makes me work harder. It makes me not take my work for granted. It makes me realise that all the love and praise I was getting meant something. To earn that back, it will mean more now because you go through this phase. I don’t know if I will get it back or not but defi nitely the desire is to prove myself again and start from scratch,” he said.