TGS Life 12/09/2015

ANIRUDDHA RAJANDEKAR

PUNE, SEPTEMBER 12, 2015 | www.thegoldensparrow.com

They’re trying to fit into class benches It’s only words, or is it?

A number of seniors from the city are stopping by at stationery marts to pick up a stock of books, pens and pencils.

But there are no toddlers tagging along, crying for attention. This stock is part of their back-to-school ensemble as they dare blackboards, once again

Now, fashion pops up everywhere!

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Bappa’s favourite food gets a makeover

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TGS LIFE SEPTEMBER 12, 2015 PUNE

STAGE

‘I plan on staying single and focus on my work’

Arfi Lamba will show off his boy-next-door looks, ruffled hair and a tall and lean body, in Prabhu Deva’s Singh is Bling this October

By Salonee Mistry @Sal0412

S

tudying to become an engineer, Arfi had no idea that he would make it to the big screen one day. A cameo in Slumdog Millionaire and a supporting role in Prague was enough to get the well-groomed Arfi noticed by the top guns of Bollywood. After starring in Fugly, produced by Akshay Kumar, he has most recently

signed a three movie contract with the actor-turned-producer. Singh is Bling is the first of three films. In a candid conversation with TGS, Arfi talks about his childhood, working on the sets with Akshay and his Bollywood inspiration.

Growing up in Moga, a small village situated 10 kilometers away from the India-Pakistan border in Punjab, Arfi has seen a tough childhood. He was extremely studious and shy. Being a farmer’s son it was difficult to make sure he got a good education and could pursue his dreams, yet his father managed it all. “My father is my inspiration. I owe everything that I am today to him. If it wasn’t for his support and encouragement, I would have never got to do what I wanted,” says Arfi. His family situation taught him to be hard-working, determined and focused, all of which the actor believes has got him where he stands today.

Talking about his role in Slumdog Millionarie, Arfi recollects how he was reluctant to be a part of the movie. He did not want to start his career doing small roles as he was afraid of being pushed to the side and stereotyped as a supporting actor.

“I needed the money back then and my friends convinced me to go for it. I am glad they pushed me when they did,” he says. The success of the film gave Arfi international exposure. Not only is the young actor the choice for an international project alongside Lady Gaga and Akon, he also co-owns a production house called the Bombay-Berlin Film Production now. Movies like Judith Goes To Bollywood, and

Party hard with Norman Doray

By Zainab Kantawala @kantawalazainab

T

onight the city will host the party of the season as Norman Doray, a renowned French DJ, takes on the console.

Doray has been creating waves on the world music scene for the past couple of years. With some big hits, like Kalifornia, Apocalypse, and Tobita, Norman has become a huge name in the Electronic Dance music community.

He started DJing in his 20s and has played all over the world. “I was always passionate about music. In fact I’d first heard disco music as I was growing up. When I was 16, I decided to pursue it seriously. When I began, I got into production and after creating my first hit, I got some shows and started touring the world,” recalls Norman.

Along the way, the DJ has also collaborated with the scene’s finest talent. He has co-produced with Arno Cost, Avicii, Tristan Garner,

Albin Myers, and David Tort while remixing the likes of David Guetta, Dirty South, Laidback Luke, Tony Braxton and many more. “My influence comes from Funk and Disco music. The 1970s/80s were the best. I try to share these influences through my music nowadays,” he adds.

Norman counts Daft Punk and Cassius as major influences that have helped him create a style of his own.

His music is a mix of melodies added with a lot of grooves. His performance is known to bring in a great energy on stage and pulls the crowd to the dance floor. “When I started my career, music was more melodic; it had more soulful vocals. Now, music is really hard and it needs to please big arenas. I don’t believe that’s a good way to go. Th ings are changing though,” he points out.

The DJ received an early breakthrough in his career, when he got an opportunity to collaborate with artists like Swedish House Mafia and David Guetta. His passion for producing great music and success

naturally went hand in hand. “Music has changed a lot over the years.

I want to make tracks that are different and original. I wish to invoke a feeling of joy through my music,” says Norman.

With his productions gaining such high exposure all around the world, Norman has become a highly in demand DJ on every continent. He has wowed audiences in some of the biggest music festivals around the world, including Tomorrowland, Midwest, Ultra Music Festival and Sunburn.

Norman is now working on three solo tracks and some new remixes. “I have recently completed my new remix for Demi Lovato for the song Cool For The Summer. In future, I would love to work with artists like Nile Rodgers and Cerrone, who have influenced me tremendously,” he adds.

When: September 12, 6 pm onwards Where: Penthouze, Koregaon Park zainab.kantawala @goldensparrow.com

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Prague, along with a few other documentaries are a part of this banner.

Attempting comedy for the first time in Singh is Bling, Arfi was extremely nervous about working alongside the biggies of the Hindi film industry. “Akshay is a delight to work with. He is patient, down-to-earth and a perfectionist.

Just being in his presence, however, can sometimes be intimidating. Prabhu Deva, on the other hand, can be a little impatient but is a gem of a person. I am so glad that I got the opportunity to work with him so early in my career,” says Arfi. Despite being at the receiving end of Akshay’s pranks on sets, he is extremely excited about his next two films with the star.

A die hard romantic and a movie buff, DDLJ and Fault In Our Stars are Arfi’s favourite movies. When he is not working, he loves reading, travelling and cooking. Not a fitness freak, the actor still manages to stay in shape. “It might sound a little weird but I talk to my food and pray to it to go to the right place.

I do not work out for more than three to four hours a week. I am just thankful for the good genes,” he grins.

Beginning his career on the ramp, which he promises he was not very good at, Arfi believes that every film he has done till date has been a turning point for his career. Being the selfmade men that they are, Akshay and Shahrukh Khan are his biggest role models. “My love and passion for acting keep me focused in life and, no matter how low I feel, I most immediately bounce back,” says Arfi f lashing a big smile. salonee.mistry@goldensparrow.com

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TGS LIFE | SEPTEMBER 12, 2015 | PUNE

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TGS LIFE SEPTEMBER 12, 2015 PUNE

Features

It’s only words, or is it?

Poetry clubs and slams across the city are giving a platform to young linguists, who are playing with words like never before

By Zainab Kantawala @kantawalazainab

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oetry has, for years, been associated with serious thinkers and romantic linguists, who get a thrill from creating dreamy lines. There was a time when kavi sammelans and mushairas were a medium of entertainment and the audiences would flock in to be mesmerised by the play of words and the rhymes. Now, poetry has made a comeback with a wave of poetry slams and spoken-word poetry taking a centre stage. Youngsters are reviving the art through different mediums, casual use of language and poetic expressions. The emerging poetry clubs in the city too have provided a platform where youngsters can share their poems with like-minded folks.

Power of words Poetry does not mean just reading out emotional verses. Interactive and drama-oriented performances are the newest entrants in this section. “I was a shy person and I wrote what I felt but poetry is really picking up in the city these days. It’s a cool thing to join a poetry club now. When I joined The Poetry Slam, we were only four

members. Now, we have around 20 to 30 members, who actively participate in slams,” says Samarth Mathur, an engineering student.

Poetry is making its presence felt at various popular youth hang-outs like The High Spirits, Pagdandi, Gyan Adab, etc. These events are encouraging budding poets to share their written work. There is no language barrier, poetry can be recited in Hindi, English, Urdu, even Punjabi. “I like to write on subjects like solitude, thrillers, and love poems,” adds Samarth.

Also, movies like Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara seemed to have encouraged the art a great deal.

Reciting poetry and connecting with the audience made people express their views even on serious subjects.

“Poetry is a powerful medium to express an issue and support a cause.

I write on life, childhood, losing innocence, and so on,” says Prachi Agarwal, student.

Spoken word poetry The form includes poems that are written to be performed for an indepth understanding. It comprises of heavy use of rhymes, slang and improvisations.

“I have always been a storyteller.

On discovering spoken word poetry, I realised the power it has to deliver emotions tangibly, and in the most honest form possible.

Since it does not have a strict restriction on structure, everything purely hinges on whether your poem clicks with the audience or not. That is what made it even more interesting,” says Apurv Inamdar, a young filmmaker.

The poetry is presented with a pinch of drama and the stress lies on chosen words. “I am an active member in my college poetry club.

The spoken word has made poetry more interesting. It is easy to relate to and the audiences connect with your feelings,” says Prachi Agarwal, a student Symbiosis College for Liberal Arts.

Lately, performance poetry is more popular in the literary circuit as more youths are taking interest in it. “I ought to write more of the spoken word genre as it a wonderful way to understand the visual texture of words. My themes for poems range from everyday emotions to abstract ones. Sometimes I think up ideas for poems related to a rice plate, space exploration, the inner human psyche, giving up hope, and individuality in relationships. Everything that intrigues me is a potential poem,” adds Apurv.

Slamming the words In poetry slams, poets are allotted between five to ten minutes each to perform or recite their written work.

The subject can be anything from politics, culture, mythology, social trends to simply what they see around them. They hold discussions on famous poets and read their poetry.

Members are given a topic before the meet and they are expected to write their original work. “We have realised that poetry is an art form that can be well-received by the audience when presented in the right form.

Similarly, open mics and slams, such as the one conducted by Pune Poetry Slam, reach out to students and people alike to create a culture and community of spoken word poetry,” says Apurv.

There are various poetry clubs in the city that invite youngsters to share their everyday experiences and humorous anecdotes in the form of poetry.

The meet ups are conducted at various cafes and venues around Pune. “We hold slams, open mics, workshops and performances. Poetry Slams are competitive events where poets compete with each other in front of an audience and judges. People come together to share their work with others in a non-judgmental and close knit environment in open mics.

Also, we call upon the best poets to showcase their work on a certain theme or topic,” says Chandrakant Redican, founder of Pune Poetry Slam.

Poets hope that just as stand-up comedy has found a stage and has become a widely enjoyed art form today, there will be a similar arc for poetry as well. zainab.kantawala @goldensparrow.com

Setting the trend Pagdandi has played an important role in popularising poetry amongst the youth. They started with a book reading session, which captivated the audience and received an overwhelming response. Ever since, they have continued the trend. “Clubs like Shavita, Pune Poetry Slam, Sound of Poetry, etc., have been associated with us, and helped us spread the word.

Poetry has become a medium of expression for the youth. They are able to convey a number of emotions that they couldn’t in a normal conversation. They have addressed issues like women empowerment through poems.

It is a creative form of voicing ones opinion, as poetry is not direct, it’s reading between the lines,” says Vishal Piparaiya, owner of Pagdandi.

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TGS LIFE | SEPTEMBER 12, 2015 | PUNE

TGS LIFE SEPTEMBER 12, 2015 PUNE

indulge

Bappa’s favourite food gets a makeover

pics by Aniruddha Rajandekar

Cherry Tomato, Bocconcini and basil Modak

By Heena Grover Menon

@HeenaGM ive flavourful and totally drool-worthy Modaks to try this festive season By now, Ganesh Chaturthi preparations are on in full swing and the city is buzzing with big and small sweet shops at every nook. If you are the kind of foodie, who likes to prepare your own sweet feast at home, try some of these mouth-watering recipes, specially created by city’s ace chefs.

Head chef of Hyatt Pune, Suvendu Roy loves to play around with his recipes, so when we asked him to customise Modaks, he was more than excited. “The art of creating fusion food out of regular dishes has been my forte for a decade now. Plus, if you are a foodie yourself, the sky is the limit,” he smiles. Chef Suvendu recently introduced a chef halwai in his kitchen since he thought it a good idea to have an in-house sweet section. So, every sweet or dessert that his team creates is an inspiration from guest’s feedback. It took him less than an hour to come up with these super interesting Modak recipes that may not have seemed funky, but they did taste unbelievably delish!

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Ingredients 500 gm Khoya 50 gm Cherry tomatoes 25 gm Bocconcini mozzarella 25 gm Fresh basil 100 gm Sugar Method Cook the khoya and sugar together in a kadhai on low heat, stirring continuously, till the sugar dissolves completely and the khoya starts to melt. Cut the tomatoes into halves. Add basil and cheese and keep it aside to cool down. Now, cook the khoya mixture till it thickens and begins to leave the sides of the kadhai. Remove from heat and set aside to cool to room temperature. Divide the mixture into equal portions. Add the mixture to the mould and shape the sides of the mould. Place half a piece of tomato and cheese as the stuffing. Shape the Modak, making sure it is sealed from all sides.

The Modaks need to be consumed within two days.

Guava and peppercorn Modak Ingredients 500 gm Khoya 100 gm Guava 50 ml Guava juice 100 gm Sugar 50 gm Peppercorn Method Cook the khoya and sugar together in a kadhai on low heat, stirring continuously, till the sugar dissolves completely and the khoya starts to melt. Add guava

Marzipan Modak

juice and crushed peppercorn till the mixture thickens and begins to leave the sides of the kadhai. Remove from heat and set aside to cool to room temperature. Divide the mixture into equal portions. Add the mixture to the mould and shape the sides of the mould. Stuff the mould with diced guava and seal.

You can also skip adding sugar, if you want a healthy version of the sweet.

Dry Fruit Modak Ingredients 400 gm Dates 25 gm Walnut 25 gm Cashewnut 25 gm Pista 25 nos Almonds 1 tbsp Honey Method Chop dates and all nuts above ingredients to a honey and mix well to Make small balls and Modaks.

Ingredients 100 gm Almond powder 100 gm Castor sugar 2 drops Almond essence 1/ 2 tsp Rose water 1 nos Egg White Method Place the almond flour and powdered sugar in a food processor and grind until combined.

Add the almond extract and rose water.

Combine and add the egg white and process

until the dough is thick. If the dough is too wet and sticky, add more powdered sugar and ground almonds. Keep in mind that it will become firmer after it is refrigerated. Turn the almond marzipan out onto a work surface and knead it a few times. Wrap it up in plastic wrap and refrigerate. Bring to room temperature before using. Now, add the desired colours to the marzipan and mould it by hand into a Modak-shape or use a mould. The Modaks can be stuffed with dry fruits, gulkand, and chocolate too.

coarsely. Add the bowl along with form the dough. shape them into

Executive Chef Pradipt Sinha of Courtyard

By Marriott Pune City Centre likes to make his dishes healthy and flavourful and this is exactly what he came up with when we asked him to give a facelift to the traditional sweetmeat. “Modak play a very important part during the Ganesh festival as it is served as a prasad. But it’s not longer restricted to being made in the way our mothers and grandmothers would in their kitchen. People now want variety and are experimental when it comes to food.

Keeping the authenticity, health quotient and taste in mind, we created Modaks that have dollops of flavour and in colours, which will attract children,” says Sinha.

Sizzlers at Best Brews

Relish a week of some sizzling platters of happiness at Best Brews. Enjoy variety of sizzlers with the best of ambience, great selection of local and international beers.

Savour lip-smacking sizzlers like Chicken, Tenderloin, Seafood plus, Cottage Cheese, Shashlik and Veg Medallion with a variety of delicious sauces.

When: September 12 Where: Best Brews, Four Points by Sheraton, Nagar Road

Cake of the month

This month Banana Caramel Gateau cake baked with the freshest, all natural

TGS LIFE

ingredients and carefully chosen by the taste-testing professionals who sample dozens of specialty cakes each month before making their selection. So walk in to the hotel and relish the cake through this month that would bring a smile on your face.

When: September 30 Where: Double Tree by Hilton, Chinchwad

Mexican delights

Hola Pune! Courtyard by Marriott Pune City Chakan takes you on gastronomic journey to Mexico this September. Treat your taste buds to the tantalising flavors of authentic Mexican cuisine. Mexico is famous for its colourful and spicy food and this week long fiesta will include spicy Mexican delicacies such as tacos, cornbread, burritos, fajitas, quesadillas, nachos and salsa and much more. You can savor these dishes with some delicious margaritas.

When: September 7 to 11

SEPTEMBER 12, 2015 PUNE

INDULGE reason why restaurants should lag behind.

To give its customers a fun, new experience, Olive Bistro is busy creating Japanese delicacies, albeit a twist. The freshly curated menu Guppy, by Delhi-based Chef Vikram Khatri, offers bold and striking flavors that are easy on the palate. In a single bite you would taste the exotic spices with a hint of tang packed into one creation.

To up your appetite, there’s an interesting range of starters including Gluten-free Mushroom and Rock Corn Tempura, Chicken Karaage, Chicken Nanban, The Pork Belly is one of their signature dishes and is a definite must-try. Chef Vikram has also given his own twist to the Sushi, which is also available in the vegetarian format, inexplicably. Try the Spicy Salmon Roll and you will keep guessing where it gets its tang from. With a sweet citrus orange flavor, the Grilled

YOUR CHOW AROUND TOWN

How about some Sushi in a European setting?

Olive Bistro plays host to Delhi’s popular Japanese restaurant Guppy By ai for a threemonth Pan-Asian food extravaganza. With the pop-up season in full bloom, there’s no

Chicken Breast is a definite try for the main course along with an assortment of noodles and rice to choose from. The food menu is perfectly paired with an eclectic selection of cocktails. If you are up for trying something that packs a punch, Wild Samurai is the drink for you.

So, go savour the ‘Japaneasy’ feast till it lasts.

When: Till October 31, 8 pm to 11 pm; Saturday and Sunday, 12 noon to 3 pm Where: Olive Bistro, Poona Club, Bund Garden Road

WEEKEND FOOD COURT

RESTAURANT NAME

LOCATION Panash, Four Points By Sheraton Viman Nagar, ahead of Phoenix Market City

CUISINE TYPE TABLE BOOKING

TIMING

SPECIALITY

PARKING

CARD

HOME DEL

Sushi, Dimsum, Teppanyaki

W

W

X

Cuban Food

W

W

X

Pan Asian

020 3093 1030/ 7709006688

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19.00 - 23.00

Global Cuisine

020 3093 1030/ 7709006688

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12.00 - 24.00

Mediterranean

020 3093 1031/ 7709006688

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19.00 - 23.00

Global Barbecue, Desi Tandoor, Moroccan Tagines

W

W

X

The Eatery, Four Points By Sheraton Viman Nagar, ahead of Phoenix Market City

Multicuisine

020 3093 1031/ 7709006688

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19.00 - 23.00

Indian and Continental

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X

Chhavni, Hatel Deccan Pavilion, At Navale Chowk Narhe, Pune

Multi-cuisine

020-66834500, 8796075745

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11.00 - 15.00 19.00 - 23.00

Punjabi

W

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Parichay Hotel & Restaurants, FC Road

Multi-cuisine

020-25531511/2/3

Maharashtrian & Punjabi

W

W

X

Royal Symphony at President Hotel, Erandwane

Multi-cuisine

020-30255555 Ext 08

Indian and International Cusine

W

X

Rumaani Veg/ Non Veg, FC Road

Multi-cuisine

020-25538365

Mutton Kheema Pav Chicken Rassa

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Cuba Libre s37, 2nd floor Season Mall, Magarpatta city Alfresco Beyond The Eatery Four Points By Sheraton Viman Nagar, ahead of Phoenix Market City

X W X

11.00 - 23.00

11.00 - 23.00

7.00 - 23.00

TO PARTICIPATE IN TGS FOODCOURT, CONTACT- } Prasad 9527507064

} Yogesh - 9011055077

814, Demech House 4th Floor, Law College Road, Pune 411 004 | Tel: 020-2432 4332/33 | www.thegoldensparrow.com

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PICS BY ANIRUDDHA RAJANDEKAR AND RAHUL RAUT

TGS LIFE SEPTEMBER 12, 2015 PUNE

FEATURES

Manohar Namdeo Gajermal, 59, in his class

They’re trying to fit into class benches

A number of seniors from the city are stopping by at stationery marts to pick up a stock of books, pens and pencils. But there are no toddlers tagging along, crying for attention. This stock is part of their back-to-school ensemble as they dare blackboards, once again

By Salonee Mistry & Ajay Rupanavar @TGSWeekly

W

hen it comes to education, age is simply a digit. All that matters is a determination and willingness to learn. Education opens

Age no bar

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learly, it would surprise you to see 64-year-old Shukracharya Bapurao Gaikwad, one of the most popular students of his batch, laughing along with his classmates at ILS College. Post-retirement, in 2012, Shukracharya found his happiness on the college campus. “It truly does not matter what your age is. My group of friends are all youngsters, with the exception of one other person but he too is much younger than me. I am as enthusiastic about studying as any other student in the class and the fact that I am the eldest in my batch, by a huge margin, makes no difference,” says Shukracharya.

He is not the only senior from the city who is surrounding by 20-somethings in class.

Satyabhama Uttamrao Dhakne travels all the

hundreds of doors of opportunities and introduces you to a world unseen. Of course, most of us understand this only as we get older. Many attempt to learn further alongside a steady job.

Some succeed, most give up. By the time retirement nears, even the thought of picking up a theoretical book seems

way from Vishrantwadi to Laxmi Road to fulfi l her childhood dream of being educated.

Currently, in the third grade, the 52-year-old is extremely enthusiastic about learning new things. She dedicated her life to educating her children after she got married when she was only 17. Irrespective of how old she is now, Satyabhama loves the fact that she is back at school. “I have some difficulty learning English, but I practice enough to know that in a few years I will ace the subject. It is so much fun to be able revisit my school days,” she shares animatedly.

Muktabai Gyaneshwar Paigude is yet another example of how age does not particularly become a deterrent when you set your heart to do something. At 70, she has absolutely no qualms of being in the fi rst grade. “After getting married at a young age, education turned into the least of my priorities

cumbersome. Yet, a growing number of senior citizens from the city are making their way back to much younger classrooms.

With World Literacy Day celebrated across the globe just this past week, we met some young-at-heart Puneites, who are giving classrooms a second go. tgs.feedback@goldensparrow.com

and I spent the rest of my life taking care of my family. Today, my children are well-off. So, after my husband passed away, I wanted to get back to a school. I had hoped to have done this much earlier,” she confides. The eagerness is, truly, infectious.

Chasing their dreams

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ost senior citizens are studying to pursue their childhood dreams. Financially unstable backgrounds either forced them to drop out of school or the opportunity to study just skipped past their doorstep. Manohar Namdeo Gajermal, 59, has spent the last twoand-half decades of his life teaching English in a girl’s school in Saswad. Being a farmer’s son he somehow managed to scrape through BA and BEd class. Then, he chose to spend the rest of his years shouldering the responsibility

of his family. “I wanted to be an officer in a bank or do something that would allow me to be at a high position. That needed a lot of studying and we didn’t have the money to pay for my education. I had to settle for what I got,” says Manohar. Not giving up on his dreams, he is currently doing a diploma course in Mass Media from Ranade Institute, on Fergusson College Road. Manohar has also applied to ILS College. After completing the diploma course, Manohar plans to learn a foreign language. “Of course, I cannot be an officer now but I would at least have the satisfaction of having learned as much as I could,” he tells us. The disappointment of a lost opportunity seems to have vanished the day he stepped into a class once again.

Satyabhama, on the other hand, is just fi lling in a void she feels in her daily life.

“Sometimes, it is difficult to understand what

TGS LIFE

my family members are talking about. All of them have had their share of education and I too would like to be a part of their conversations,” she says, as she shares her aspirations. Satyabhama had to give up her dream to be educated because her family couldn’t afford the expense when she was younger. When her sister was born the funds saved for Satyabhama’s education were redirected to her sister and that’s where the road to a classroom became a blur to her.

“Now, it is not about me earning any money or being able to tell people that I have a degree. It is just about being able to talk, read and write in English, Marathi or Hindi. Sometimes, all I hope for is to experience what school would have been like, had I attended it as a child,” she adds.

Knowledge gained through education can be passed along through generations and is not materialistic, explains a philosophical Suryakant Prahlad Bhosale (55), who is pursuing an MA in Buddhist Literature from Savitribai Phule Pune University. Despite a steady job with the Armament Research and Development Establishmement (ARDE) as a class I officer, Suryakant is studying simply to learn further. “Gaining a deeper understanding of the religion and culture, which has shaped the city and country I live in, is important to me. It helps me find answers to so many questions,” he says.

Harish Thakkar started studying once again when he was 52. He completed a journalism course and an MA in Indology from Ranade Institute. Then, he enrolled for a PhD in Philosophy and Religion at Tilak Maharashtra Vidyapeeth at Sadashiv Peth. Along with the PhD, Harish is also currently enrolled at the Centre for Advanced Study in Sanskrit for a post graduation in Manuscriptology. “All you need willpower and determination. It does not matter how old you are or what your physical condition maybe, those are just figures,” says Harish.

Joining the family business at a relatively younger age Harish did not get to study as much as he wanted to. “There weren’t enough courses one could choose from back when I was in college,” he shares.

Overcoming obstacles

N

o matter how young they might be at heart, the age factor does come with its own set of limitations. Memory loss, physical ailment, an inability to memorise and comprehend concepts faster might just be a few of them. Yet, every member of the enthusiastic lot manages to fi nd a way to surpass the problems that they face.

Shukracharya says, “The fi rst year, when I was giving my law exam, I could barely get through the three-hour long agony because of back and neck pain. In the second year, I would forget everything I had learned and go blank just before an exam. I exercised regularly and took medicines for my body ache and popped some more pills to help remember things. Now I don’t worry much about exams.”

Understanding and accepting the fact that her age would bring along some unavoidable problems has helped Muktabai sustain Muktabai Paigude, 70, preparing for her Grade I exam

SEPTEMBER 12, 2015 PUNE

FEATURES

Suryakant Bhosale, 55, is pursuing an MA in Buddhist Literature

her confidence in the fact that she will garner flying colours in the annual examination.

Not being able to recollect what she has been taught is her biggest worry too. Despite spending all the time she can, penning down the right answer is a tough task for her.

It’s all in the head Harish says rather

Shukracharya Gaikwad, 64, studying law at ILS

confidently. Just before his exams, he went through an angioplasty, which did not stop him from making an attempt. He asked for an extra chair to stretch his legs and finished his paper.

Eventually, Harish fared extremely well.

Not in it for the money

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arning money after acquiring degrees or an education is not even on most senior students’ minds. It is all about learning and passing on what they have imbibed. “It is

important to me that my children and their friends learn about our roots. I hope to study Buddhist Literature, Pali and other related subjects to be able to impart it to those younger than me,” says a hopeful Suryakant.

“You can never know enough of something.

I learnt so much in just the fi rst few days,” he adds. Suryakant merrily shares details about Buddhist culture. Brimming with information, he hardly pauses to catch his breath. The sheer excitement about sharing what he had learned is proof of his love for learning.

On the other hand, Shukracharya set about a course in law with a clear vision in mind. Working with Sajjag Nagrik Manch in Pune, he saw the price that people had to pay because of their ignorance about laws.

“Government officials often take advantage of the poor because they do not understand what lies in the purview of the authority. I’ve been doing social work for a while now and I feel extremely bad for those who cannot afford a lawyer. I want to use everything that I learn in the three-year course to do pro-bono work for those who are less fortunate than me,” says a hopeful Shukracharya.

The only end result Muktabai is hoping for is to be able to read signs on buses and on the streets when she visits her village. “I don’t like to be dependent on others to tell me what stop has come or which bus I should board. My age makes me rely on my children enough. Th is is something I sincerely hope I can do on my own,” she says.

The sheer joy of studying

“The first year, when I was giving my law exam, I could barely get through the threehour long agony because of back and neck pain. In the second year, I would forget everything I had learned and go blank just before an exam.

I exercised regularly and took medicines for my body ache and popped some more pills to help remember things.

Now I don’t worry much about exams.”

- Shukracharya Bapurao Gaikwad

“It is not about me earning any money or being able to tell people that I have a degree. It is just about being able to talk, read and write in English, Marathi or Hindi.

Sometimes, all I hope for is to experience what school would have been like, had I attended it as a child.”

- Satyabhama Dhakne

Harish Thakkar, 52, pursuing PG in Manuscriptology

A

t the mention of education and learning, an uncanny smile spreads across their faces. It is near-impossible to stop them from sharing how much they enjoyed studying.

Not only, do senior citizens have favourite subjects just like every other student, they also have fun outside the classrooms like every other student. Shukracharya shares a cup of tea in the ILS canteen with his classmate every day. Satyabhama cannot hide the fact that Maths and English are her favourite subjects and that just being around books makes her very happy. Suryakant mentions how the time he spends studying at home turns into a time to bond with his daughter, who is pursuing a graduation course. Both Suryakant and his daughter study for their exams together.

Manohar makes friends easily, loves meeting new people and exchanging ideas with them. He believes this is only possible because he has had the opportunity to study.

Harish smiles as he tells us how being a part of the many courses takes him back to his school days and he feels much younger at heart. Muktabai feels overjoyed at being able to recognise alphabets and read small words while walking back home from her school.

The greying hair and wrinkles are only on an indicator of how old they may be physically. At heart, these students are still young.

TGS LIFE SEPTEMBER 12, 2015 PUNE

THRILL OF DRIVING Same price, different approach. Which is better for you?

F

ord showed the way forward when they launched the EcoSport in 2012. The compact SUV was anxiously anticipated and if the 9-month waiting period was to be believed, wildly successful. A sub4 metre SUV at an affordable price clearly had the customers lining up.

It was a sign not lost on other Indian manufacturers; just look at the number of pseudo-SUVs/crossovers based on hatchbacks available in the market today. Mahindra recently went a step further and announced their ‘authentic’ SUV, the “tough utility vehicle” TUV300, still pronouned with the “double-O” at the end. It’s also under 4m in lenght and has a wide overlap in price with the Ford EcoSport. So which one is better for you? We drill down in the details.

MOTIVATION The engine options are the first differences you’ll notice on the spec sheets of the EcoSport and the TUV300. The Ford is available in a 1.5 litre petrol, a 1.5 litre diesel and a high-tech 1.0 litre EcoBoost turbopetrol engine -- each in one or more trim levels. Unsurprisingly for this class of vehicle, the diesel is what you tend to see most, but it’s always nice to have the choice. The Mahindra, however, only comes with one engine option -- the new mHawk80 threecylinder diesel, but the range starts at just Rs 6.9 lac, while a diesel EcoSport starts at Rs 7.89 lac, about a lac dearer.

Both motors are in the same performance ballpark. The EcoSport TDCi motor makes slightly more power, while the Mahindra mHawk80 makes the most torque in this class. It won’t win any drag races with the EcoSport however, since it has about 2.2 tonnes of weight to lug

Mahindra TUV300 vs Ford EcoSport

around. The EcoSport will also tend to be smoother as the revs rise, being a 4-cylinder motor, while the Mahindra can get a bit noisy.

Both vehicles use 5-speed manual transmissions, but Mahindra also provides an automated manual gearbox on the top two trim levels, a claimed segment first. Ford has no such transmission for its diesel models; the decidedly more advanced dual-clutch automatic is reserved for their 1.5 litre petrol model. On the go, at moderate speed, both vehicles feel refined and smooth, though the three-cylinder thrum tends to creep in on the Mahindra when you start going faster. The EcoSport, a monocoque front-wheel drive platform, handles well and feels carlike (because it is) while the TUV300 feels like an ‘authentic’ SUV -- it’s a body-on-frame construction with rear-wheel drive. That said, it’s still quite good and we suspect ride on rougher roads will actually be better on the TUV.

SPACE It’s hard to compete with the TUV300 in terms of interior space.

Despite being under four metres in length, it is offered as a 5+2 seater, with two jump seats at the back. They may not be practical for large adults, but they’ll do in a pinch. Fold them up and the cargo space liberated is expansive. One can fit a very decent amount of luggage behind those rear seats and once folded down, there’s cavernous cargo room. The EcoSport has a more compact cargo area, but the 60:40 folding seats allow for some more flexibility. Still, gross volume is lower.

Mahindra claims that the TUV300 is the widest vehicle in its segment, allowing for generous shoulder room for three passengers sitting abreast. We certainly didn’t have to adjust ourselves too much to get comfortable, which can be a problem with the EcoSport, where three passengers on the rear seat is a snug fit. Legroom in either vehicle is fine, though the rear seat feels a bit more upright in the TUV than the EcoSport,

much like you’d find in a Scorpio (upon which the TUV is based). So there’s a trade-off between shoulder room and the recline of the seats; your comfort may vary on longer drives.

One area where the TUV clearly has the advantage is in the greenhouse. There’s more exposed glass area with the TUV300, making the interior feel airy and spacious.

Combined with the well-chosen beige upholstery, the sense of space is palpable. Not so with the Ford EcoSport, which sacrifices an airy cabin for the sleek design.

DESIGN The TUV300 is a definite departure for Mahindra as far as their recent design efforts go. The XUV500 has more curves, slashes and character lines than it does seats and you would be right if you thought it was a bit overdone. The TUV takes another approach, being all angles and flat metal. The design is inspired by a battle tank, Mahindra claims, and it does look quite chunky in person.

The squared-off wheel arches, boxy design and straight lines that tend to converge toward the rear are conservative, with some flair. Mahindra claims Pininfarina provided input in the development of the TUV, but they chose their words carefully, so we’re not sure to what extent.

Mahindra have managed to avoid the uniquely awkward look of the Quanto, their other sub-4m vehicle, but there’s only so much you can do within the size constraints, so the TUV does end up looking a bit tall.

In contrast, the Ford EcoSport has no baggage to shed and appears to be designed with less “musthaves” on the list. While it gives up pure volume to the TUV300, it’s a better designed car to look at. This of course, is highly subjective and if you believe the reactions Mahindra is seeing on social media, their machismo is selling briskly. You don’t get pure testosterone in a bottle with each EcoSport.

SAFETY To Mahindra’s credit, they’re offering ABS and front airbags even on the base model TUV300 as an option (T4+ trim), something you don’t get in the EcoSport unless you opt for the top two trims (Titanium, Titanium (O)). ABS with EBD is also available, as is CBC (Corner Brake Control) on the top variant.

Standard safety features are becoming par for the course and informing manufacturer product strategy, and we’re glad for it. The EcoSport was launched a little before the

PRICES

MAHINDRA TUV300 T4 Rs 6.9 lac T4+ Rs 7.25 lac T6 Rs 7.55 lac T6+ Rs 7.8 lac T8+ Rs 8.4 lac T6+ AMT Rs 8.52 lac T8+ AMT Rs 9.12 lac FORD ECOSPORT DIESEL Ambiente Rs 7.89 lac Trend Rs 8.61 lac Titanium Rs 9.6 lac Titanium (O) Rs 10.2 lac safety circus starring Max Mosley and GlobalNCAP last year, so you pay more for the priviledge of surviving a crash (you can also get six airbags on one variant). Mahindra also claims that the TUV300 complies with future safety norms to come into effect in India, so you’re buying a vehicle you can safely keep for a while.

PRACTICALITY While the EcoSport and TUV300 are the same length, the configuration of the TUV is such that it feels larger. The wheels are at the very corners, liberating interior space and the width affords more passenger comfort. Additionally there’s the larger boot. Family trips will tend to be more comfortable in the TUV than the EcoSport. That said, the EcoSport makes good use of its space. There are nicely thought out storage areas and ergonomics are good for the front seats. If you’re coming from a Japanese car, things won’t fall to hand quite as readily in the Ford, but it’s a small adjustment to make. Being significantly taller, ingress and egress to/from the TUV is slightly more comfortable than the EcoSport.

One rather glaring issue with the EcoSport is the fact that the rear door opens from the right. This means if you’re parked on the

left, as we do in right-hand drive countries and want to load some cargo, you have to walk around the door to do it. The TUV300 opens from the left, so you’re protected from traffic and can load easily. There’s a bit of a lip to the cargo area, so you have to lift your load a bit higher to get it in.

Finally, with all the talk about the toughness and authenticity of the TUV300, you’d think it was built like a mountain goat. Not quite.

The TUV300 has 190mm of ground clearance, while the EcoSport trumps it at 200mm. Being frontwheel drive, the EcoSport will also have less bits at the bottom to damage if the going gets really rough.

But let’s face it: these are both urban vehicles and you’re unlikely to take them mudplugging without a JCB at hand.

TECHNOLOGY Mahindra impressed us with the laundry list of features on its XUV500 and new Scorpio models, and the trickle-down effect is visible on the TUV300 as well. There are static-bending headlights on offer, something the EcoSport doesn’t get.

There’s a 2DIN entertainment system with Bluetooth, voice commands and connectivity to a smartphone app, which Ford also provides. If you’re comparing checklists, we’d say it’s a mixed bag between vehicles, and both are roughly equivalent.

VALUE It’s safe to say that the Ford will tend to be a bit more expensive to maintain in the long run. THe slab-sided TUV bodywork will be easier to repair and Mahindra’s adept local manufacturing should keep spares costs low. The EcoSport diesel models start at Rs 7.89 lac ex-Delhi and go all the way up to Rs 10.2 lac. The TUV starts at a lower Rs 6.9 lac and tops out at Rs 9.12 lac ex-Delhi for the automated manual option. Clearly, Mahindra is making a very strong case for itself in the sub-4m SUV segment.

TGS LIFE

Now, fashion pops up everywhere!

W

ith designers from the fashion hubs in Delhi and Mumbai flying down to showcase their collections in the city every now and then, Pune is on an all-time high with its new-found pop up store trend.

From freshers to popular highend retail brands that deal with a wide range of products, from clothes, shoes, bags, accessories to home furnishings, the city has been playing host to a number of designers who see the city as one of the most sought after markets to create a client base.

Rasika Wakalkar is among the first to have started the trend for fashion pop-ups in the city.

Through her multi-designer store Studio Rudraksh, she has successfully launched over 200 designers from across the country and has also been a trailblazer in bringing pop ups of top luxury brands such as Jimmy Choo,

Canali, Tumi and Bottega Veneta to Pune. Recently, Rasika held a pop-up show at one of the top hotels in the city where a preview of Lakme Fashion Week designers Krishna Mehta and Siddhartha Bansal showcased their 2015 festive collection. “The best thing about hosting pop up shows is that they give a platform to designers, who are looking to test the market in a particular city. At the same time, they create a buzz amongst shoppers, who want to explore new products. Unlike shopping exhibitions, pop ups are stylish.

They focus more on providing an experience to customers and exclusivity to designers. After gauging the response to their products, designers can then decide whether they want to set up a permanent store in a particular city,” says Rasika.

Pop ups are also curated events where everything, from the right location, ambiance, styling, and theme, revolves around the nature of products that are to be displayed.

Located at Koregaon Park, Terttulia

Features

rahul raut

By Heena Grover Menon @HeenaGM

SEPTEMBER 12, 2015 PUNE

is one of the most preferred venues for holding pop-ups. The restaurant has a cozy European-style patio, which not only serves as a great place to savour food and drinks, but also gives its customers an option to shop and hangout. Talking about the trend, Nishant Tulshan, assistant manager at Terttulia, says, “Earlier this year, we began hosting pop ups and ever since we have played host to many wellknown, even budding, designers and labels. The pop up store culture is catching up really fast in the city and with delicately curated shows, we attract a great clientele which, in turn, helps designers reach out to more customers. Our restaurant sees more footfalls thanks to such events too.”

Uzma Poonawalla is another well known name from the city associated with high-end fashion exhibitions and pop ups in the city. Her brand, Cherry Crush, is linked with all the major fashion bazaars and flea markets that are

organised in the city. “I started Cherry Crush thanks to my love for fashion but it has now become a full fledged profession where I can boast of having introduced some of the most exclusive collections by famous fashion, jewellery, footwear, accessories and interior and furniture designers from across the country to this city,” says Uzma.

Amongst the list of designers who have had their pop ups at Cherry Crush are Anjalee & Arjun Kapoor, Ritu Kumar, Outhouse and Anita Kanwal Creations. Apart from exhibitions, Uzma also has her own clothing line, the Pink Corridor, for which she holds pop ups across the city. “The idea is to bring the best in the fashion world to the fashionistas in Pune, who don’t have to go very far to buy their favourite couture any longer,” Uzma adds.

Delhi-based fashion designer Siddhartha Bansal, who made his Lakme Fashion Week debut in August, had his first pop up show in collaboration with Rudraksh in

Don’t miss this pop up The second edition of the StyleCracker Borough Pune promises to be bigger and better.

Stay tuned for a day packed with fashion, food and fun. Shop the coolest brands and designers from around the country, get styled for free and have a super happy Sunday with your friends and family.

Where: The Westin, Koregaon Park When: September 13, 10 am onwards the city last week. “I got a massive response from people, even in terms of sale. The women here are very fashion savvy and know what they want. My collection, Storyteller, essentially included fusion wear with Indian and western elements,” says the designer, adding that such pop ups help a designer brand reach out to people without having to worry about spending a huge amount in setting up a standalone store which may or may not work.

Adding to the takeaway from the concept, Rasika says that the pop ups especially work well because the collections you see on display would be exclusive with great discount deals. “You wouldn’t generally find fashion labels offer too many discounts so how one prices products also affects the sale. “Also, since pop ups offer a pretty set up, shopper who arrive only with the intention to browse also end up picking up some stuff off the racks. Then on, the word spreads,” adds Nishant. heena.grover@goldensparrow.com

Pune will shine at this New York Fashion Week C ity-based fashion, hair and make-up artist to be one of the first backstage fashion directors at this year’s New York Fashion Week (NYFW) Chandrakala started her career as a make-up artist nearly 16 years ago with a Pune-based fashion magazine. She has been the show director and stylist for the major pageants and fashion shows held in the city and has worked for popular magazines and brands.

She has been chosen as the backstage director for fashion designer Archana Kochhar, who is

also the first designer from India to showcase her Ahimsa Silk Collection at the show, scheduled on September 13. Sharing her excitement, Chandrakala says, “This is my first international venture and I am extremely honoured to have been given this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. I have been a part of the fashion circuit in Pune and Mumbai, and have worked with various well-known designers, but this is one-of-its-kind and I hope I make my country proud.”

Chandrakala has worked with Archana on many of her

fashion shows for the past three years, and this time they have collaborated again as part of the ‘Make in India’ campaign, which was initiated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. “The collection that I am going to style is inspired by the dying art of India, so all the fabrics that been used to make the outfits to be showcased at the show are Ahimsa silks, paithanis and all the traditional fabrics that are made in India. Though the styles will be entirely western, I am going to give a touch of Indian to all the looks,” she says.

Huma Qureshi at a fashion show styled by Chandrakala Sanap (inset)

TGS LIFE SEPTEMBER 12, 2015 PUNE

features

By Zainab Kantawala @kantawalazainab

O

f the 48 artists and bands expected to perform at the NH7 Weekender, which will be held in the city at

A different beat

Indie music scene in the city is seeing bands explore and mix genres like never before. Jazz tunes are enhancing mellifluous poetry, all-vocal ensembles are replacing music instruments on stage, and Heavy Metal is taking on a heavier and thicker avtaar. Have you been keeping up? the end of the year, only a third of the acts are established names. Even the recognisable names on the artist list includes bands that were taking their first steps in the indie music scene just a few years ago — think, Swarathma, The

Raghu Dixit Project, Soulmate. The number of local bands taking the indie route and doing a good job of establishing themselves is steadily increasing.

Their creativity, musical innovations, attitude, and stage presence are also

helping these bands garner fame. Most of all, the music these bands create beckons fans to keep coming back to their performances for an out of the ordinary experience. zainab.kantawala@goldensparrow.com

Heavy Metal gets heavier

F

ormed in 2014, Dirge is highly influenced by international bands like Black Sabbath, Melvins, Acid bath and Candlemass. The band’s music comprises of heavy riffs, low tuned distorted basslines combined with screaming, angstridden vocals. Tabish Khidir on vocals, Ashish Dharkar and Varun Patil on guitars, Harshad Bhagwat on bass and Prathamesh Lele on drums, make up the Doom Metal band. “It was tough to find the members initially

because not many are aware of Doom Metal as a genre. With the help of social media we found people with similar interests in music,” says Ashish.

The band is currently working on its debut album that is based on a historic-myth-fiction-lyrical theme about the rebirth of the violent Maya. “Doom Metal music is extremely loud and heavy but at the same time very slow in rhythm. Dirge is a slow mournful poem, and the name itself represents our sound,” he adds.

“Doom Metal music is extremely loud and

heavy but at the same time very slow in rhythm.

Dirge is a slow mournful poem, and the name itself represents our sound.”

- Ashish Dharkar

College band turns pro

R

udraksha is a group of self-taught musicians who want to revamp Sufi music by giving it a touch of classical Rock elements. The band includes Ajay Tapale on vocals, Gaurav Bhosale on percussions, keyboard and saxophone, Ashpak Shaikh

on drums, Shishir Sen on bass guitar and Aomeren on guitar. “The band was formed in 2009 by Ashpak Shaikh, Gaurav Bhosale and Jobin, who were students of Wadia College.

Later, Ajay joined Rudraksha. After winning at IIT Kharakpur and IIT Guwahati, the

band also performed at various venues in Pune. Due to some personal commitments, the band took a break and got back together in March 2014 with new members — Aomeren, and myself,” says Shishir.

Inspired by sufi musicians like Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan, Rahat Fateh Ali Khan, bands like Junoon, Raghu Dixit Project and other musical acts, this band has performed at

various college festivals around the country.

Their idea of adding classical instruments to Rock music is a big hit with the city audiences.

“It basically starts with the idea of composing songs and fusing Sufi poetry with the jhok of tabla and Rock drums along with experimental guitar riffs and progressive bass lines. We have almost an album-worth material ready,” adds Shishir.

“It basically

starts with the idea of composing songs and fusing Sufi poetry with the jhok of tabla and Rock drums along with experimental guitar riffs and progressive bass lines.”

- Shishir Sen

TGS LIFE SEPTEMBER 12, 2015 PUNE

features “Each one of us has grown

up heavily influenced by different kinds of music but somehow we’ve found a common wavelength when it comes to beatboxings.”

- Avinash Tewari

Meet India’s first beatboxing ensemble

B

eatboxers have taken the indie music world by a storm in the last few years so why wouldn’t city’s vocalists give it a try? Presenting Voctronica ― the country’s first all-vocal ensemble.

The band was set up by worldrenowned beatboxer, Shlomo and

MC Testament from UK, Sony Music and British Council India.

Arjun Nair, Warsha Easwar, Raj Verma, Clyde Rodrigues and Avinash Tewari came together to create the band, which highlights the real power of the human voice with its melodious blend of Indian

Classical, Pop, Blues and Rock vocalists.

“I have been beatboxing for close to nine years and Raj has been doing it for about six years or so. Both of us learned beatboxing off the internet. Initially, a sevenmember band was formed through

registrations and workshops.

However, that band dissolved soon after and the current setup of Voctronica has been in place for two years now,” says Avinash.

All band members have developed musical knowledge and vocal percussive skills that has brought Voctronica the fame it deserves. “Each one of us has grown up heavily influenced by different

kinds of music but somehow we’ve found a common wavelength when it comes to beatboxing. A major influence is Electronic music like Drum N Bass and we are extremely intrigued by vocal groups around the world like Under Kontrol, Bauchklang, and Shlomo and the Lip Factory, who are doing unique things with their instruments,” he adds.

Exploring the power of drums

T

aal Inc Rhythm Ensemble has revived Folk music by performing on traditional West-African folk songs in a more contemporary setting. The core of the band is made up by Varun Venkit on djembe and vocals, Dhir Mody on Djembe, Agneya Chikte on djembe and dununs and Gandhaar Amin on flute and dununs.

“After playing with Agnee between 2006 and 2009, I thought it would be a good time to start my own band and make my mark in the indie music world. Then, I really discovered my love for the djembe and that gave birth to Taal Inc Rhythm Ensemble - India’s first traditional West-African percussion

ensemble. We are the only ensemble in the country that performs traditional West African Folk Music,” says Varun.

Pulsating, earthy, primal rhythms, catchy vocal hooks and power-packed performances are what define the group’s live performances.

“Each time I would meet my master Mamady Keita, who is a grandmaster Djembefola and founder-president of the Tam Tam Mandingue Djembe Academy, at one of his workshops I would come back with ideas for my ensemble to play and spread awareness of this amazing percussion culture and more importantly, the similarity that it shares with our own folk music cultures,” adds Varun.

“Each time I would meet my master Mamady Keita, I would come back with ideas for my ensemble to play and spread awareness of this amazing percussion culture.”

- Varun Venkit

Keeping a love affair alive

M

ystic is India’s first poetrymusic band that creates enchanting lyrics and an evocative fusion of guitar and flute.

The band is founded by Randhir Khare, who has been performing poetry with a variety of traditional and contemporary musicians for a number of years. “I chanted my work with a Jazz band at the Ubud Writers Festival in Bali, Indonesia. I have also worked with AR Rahman, who set my poems to music earlier in his career. I worked with him for five continuous days at his studio in Chennai and it was a sheer delight. I wanted a more lasting and

continuous poetry music experience so I invited two very talented musicians, Majid Aziz on the guitar and Deepak Bhanuse on the flute, to join me and form the band,” says Randhir, an established poet and founder of the literary centre, Gyan Adab.

The band’s poetry isn’t sung but chanted. Their poetry is essentially based on the journeys within-without, relationships with the natural and human world, love, respect and emotions. “Poetry and music have always been inseparable lovers and the formation of the band was to perpetuate this love affair. My poems

are like song-prayers you sing on a dark night when you think no one is listening. Majid and Deepak very beautifully and skillfully balance their music with my poetry,” the poet says.

“Poetry and music have

always been inseparable lovers and the formation of the band was to perpetuate this love affair.”

-Randhir Khare

14

TGS LIFE SEPTEMBER 12, 2015 PUNE

NIGHTLIFE

When the party clicks

The exceptionally talented photographer, Sameer Belvalkar, tells us how to be picture perfect at a party

By Manasi Shroff @ManasiShroff

P

hotography is truly a glamorous profession, especially when your camera captures Bollywood and creates ads that are a visual delight.

Sameer Belvalkar is one of the

most talented photographers in the city, which, inevitably, has made

him a regular feature at major nightlife events.

Sameer claims to be the kind that loves to go lounging. “Given the profession I am in, I prefer having a conversation with the people around me rather than giving in to loud music and not bothering about my company,” he says, adding, “I’ve also quit alcohol a couple of years ago so good music and conversation makes a perfect night for me.”

We simply had to ask the established photographer the tricks to a perfect party selfie. “A mobile phone has a wide angle camera, so you should try keeping the phone as far as possible for a perfect picture. Well, just pass the phone to the guy will long hands,” he laughs. Sameer says the selfie sticks do a good job too. “Standing

under the light creates a lot of shadows that destroy the picture.

Try avoiding the fl ash, pick a welllit area instead, give a slight profi le to your body and capture your memory clearly,” says the pro.

A number of lounges and pubs in the city have been captured through Sameer’s camera and his recent favourite hangout is The Flying Saucer. “It’s got a lovely ambience, wonderful breeze, and great music,” he claims. Another favourite is 1000 Oaks, one of the oldest and “most cozy” lounges in the city. “I love listening to Rock and Retro music and this place always plays my kind of music. Moreover, I’ve been going there since forever and now I’m just comfortable with their old school style.”

WHERE’S THE PARTY TONIGHT

DJ Bali

DJ Bali will shake things up at The Flying Saucer Sky Bar. The Sydney-based DJ is known as one of Australia’s top ranking DJs and is known for his groovy trance and Bollywood remixes. One of the arresting names in the world of mixes and remixes, DJ Bali has made people trip over his tracks in the outflanked clubs around Sydney.

USA born rapper Bohemia and the King of Bollywood DJ Aqeel, would also be the few other stars whom Bali has explored his tickling tracks with. Apart from Australia being one of his highly toured countries, he has no way failed to take up other countries in notice.

His gigs at Thailand and Singapore had been breath taking and long waited for. Never-the-less, belonging to Indian origin, this DJ has throbbed hearts across India with his play marks.

When: September 12 Where: The Flying Saucer Sky Bar, Viman Nagar

Cristoph

Touted as the ‘future star’ by Pete Tong, Cristoph is going to make sure that the moniker is befitting at blueFROG this weekend. His effervescent, broad ranging style encompasses heavy basslines, uplifting melodies and carefully chosen vocals, spanning the house to techno spectrum. With a string of successful releases, his music was being championed all summer by Marco Carola at his Ibiza summer residency at Music On at Amnesia Ibiza apart from Richie Hawtin and Hot Since 82.

When: September 13 Where: blueFROG, Yerwada,

Wednesday Night Live with SmokeStack

When: September 16 Where: The blueFROG Club, Yerwada

Biswa In Your Face

Biswa Kalyan Rath is touring the country with an hour-long stand-up special that he has produced. He will be stopping by at the Arc Asia to display his style of comedy, which can be best described as angry rants bordering on what’s socially acceptable. The show will cover a wide range of topics such as growing up, social anxiety, existential crisis and much more.

When: September 12 Where: Arc Asia, Koregaon Park

History of India: VIRitten

When: September 12 Where: Susie Sorabji Auditorium, Agarkar Nagar

Iss mod se

The show is a perfect blend of Marathi literature, in the form of stories and poems, with orchestral performances.

The uniqueness of this show lies in the fact that it does not showcase the songs of famous actors, nor the works of famous composers, but its a show which makes you realize your choices, your likes, your space and ultimately, your existence. One more unique factor of the show is that the songs, the poems, the stories essayed in the show are the ones you would remember and like, however, they are not the ones you hear time and time again. The core theme of the show is Back to roots. It would be a wonderful journey that would take them through their nostalgic memories.

When: September 13 Where: MES Auditorium, Kothrud

Chris & Leo

Named after the legendary song by Howling Wolf Smokestack started off as a pretty purist, acoustic blues trio.

Not content to stay within that realm, the band soon broadened the approach, taking an interest in a multitude of folk and roots music, as well as rhythmic influences from around the world. This led to expanding the band to include drums and electric guitars.

Now they take pride for playing the blues in all their shades and styles, pegged on a dynamic, unfaltering groove, while channeling the raw, direct emotion of the earliest acoustic blues!

This is a history lesson that you can dance to and with a repertoire of over 50 original songs and the traditional blues covers, they can make you dance all night long.

Ashvin Gidwani’s History of India presented by Vir Das promises to be the funniest, wittiest and sensational relook at the history of India. From the cradle of civilization in Harappa to the Vedas and the advent of the Mughal era from the East India Company to the freedom struggle till we opened ourselves up to the world in the ‘9 0s. This is a show about the history of India. But a history so twisted, so funny, so out-of-the-box, so completely unbelievable, you won’t be sure if it even happened.

This coming Saturday The Beer Cafe brings you Chris & Leo, a renowned Pune-based band.

Chris is the founder member of the city’s most renowned band called Strange Brew. Strange Brew in the late 80’s released an album called Just Brewed a 5 song EP that won the heart’s of music fraternity in India as well as abroad.

In early 2010 they released their long awaited Hindi rock album titled, Khwaab.

Chris has 5000 gigs to add to his achievements in the last 25 years globally. Leo started learning music at an early age. His presence on the key board isn’t just hypnotic, but persuades one to listen harder. They are known for their colourful performances, perfectly blended with energy and they know exactly how to get the crowd rolling.

When: September 12 Where: The Beer Café, Koregaon Park

Put your best foot forward

By Zainab Kantawala @kantawalazainab

T

here are many shoe choices out there that are stylish and cool. But fi nding the right ones can be a little tricky.

Whether you are have a night out or simply taking a walk in a park, a pair of shoes that is both stylish and comfortable will have you sauntering in style. zainab.kantawala @goldensparrow.com

Lace-Up Gladiator Wedge Sandals The season calls for this incredibly cute pair of faux suede gladiator sandals. Not only do they stun with their lace-up front, but their small wedge heel gives you just a little but of height.

It is perfect for shorts and maxi dresses alike.

Where: Forever 21 Price: Rs 2,599

Blue Ankle Buckle Closure Heel This glamorous yet comfortable shoes can be easily carried from day to evening with ease. The small details add a chic and stylish element to the footwear.

Where: RS by Rocky Star, Shoppers stop Price: Rs 2,399Â

Bronze Toned Party wear Wedge Sandal These wedges have contrasting colour heel and strap. It has an intricate design and looks elegant. It goes well with Indian clothes.

Where: INC.5 Price: Rs 1,690

SEPTEMBER 12, 2015 PUNE

SHOPPING Pointed Faux Leather Loafers The sleek angular toe on this pair of penny loafers is a great way to add drama to your formals.

Where: Forever 21 Price: Rs 1,299

Leather High Heel Shoes These pair of shoes are both chic and sexy. Wear it with casual jean and a crop top and you are good to go.

Price: Rs 4,990 Where: Zara

Beige Slipon Ballerina Shoe Look fashionable in this pair of ballerinas. It will provide you with maximum comfort. You can club it with western outfits and chunky bangles to flaunt a retro look.

Where: Clarks Price: Rs 4,499

Multi Slipon Platform Sandal If you are on the lookout for something to match with your ethnic wear then check out this pair of wedges. It features embroidered straps, which adds a new dimension to the look of the sandals.

Team it up with sarees or churidars for a complete look.

Price: Rs 1,895 Where: Catwalk

Mint Flat Sandal This simple yet pretty is sure to add a touch of elegance to any attire.

Where: Allen Solly Price: Rs 1,399

TGS LIFE

Tan Flat Sandal Get hold of this uniquely designed pair of shoe and team it up with any casual or ethnic wear to complete the look. Rich colour and sturdy material makes this perfect for daily use.

Price: Rs 1,695 Where: Catwalk

Printed Leather Court Shoe This butterfly print stilletos is perfect for a night out.

Pair them with a plain black dress or skirt and subtle accessories for a sophisticated look.

Price: Rs 5,990 Where: Zara

TGS LIFE

Getting ready for the release

SEPTEMBER 12, 2015 PUNE

D

BUZZ

Send me your love

N

H10 star Anushka Sharma has begun shooting for Karan Johar's next directorial venture Ae Dil Hai Mushkil, here.

The film also stars Anushka's Bombay Velvet co-star Ranbir Kapoor and actress Aishwarya Rai Bachchan in lead roles.

The 27-year-old actress took to Twitter to announce the starting of the film's principal photography and asked her fans to send their good wishes for the project.

"So, today we start filming Ae Dil Hai Mushkil in London. Butterflies attacking. Excitement rolling. Send me your love and wish me luck guys!!" she tweeted.

Johar is returning to the director's chair with the film after a gap of three years. He last helmed Varun Dhawan-Alia Bhatt starrer Student of the Year in 2012. Ae Dil Hai Mushkil dwells on relationships and heartbreaks.

It will be the first time Aishwarya, 41, would be seen on-screen with Ranbir, 32, and Anushka. Interestingly, Johar last collaborated with the on-screen couple of Ranbir and Anushka as an actor in Bombay Velvet.

This also marks the first time teaming up of the filmmaker and Aishwarya. The movie will hit theatres on Diwali, next year.

ebut actor Sooraj Pancholi says he wants to be a part of emotional love stories. The 25-year-old son of Aditya Pancholi, who is making his foray into Bollywood with Hero opposite newcomer Athiya Shetty, said he has a fascination for romantic stories.

"I want to do more romantic fi lms. Scripts which have romance, pure emotions and satisfaction are what I am looking forward to," the actor said Hero, the remake of Subhash Ghai's 1983 fi lm of the same name, is directed by Nikhil Advani.

The fi lm is produced by superstar Salman Khan and Mukta Arts.

Sooraj, who hit the headlines two years ago after getting arrested for his involvement in girlfriend Jiah Khan's death, credits Salman for being a constant support. "Th is is a dream launch. I couldn't have better script than Hero, better director than Nikhil sir, better producer than Salman sir and better co-star than Athiya Shetty.

The newcomer said he has seen the super stardom of Salman since he was a child and fi nds himself and Athiya fortunate to share the platform with him.

Athiya Shetty playing the lead actress in the movie says the fate of her father Suniel Shetty's fi lms

at the box-office never affected her.

"There was no discussion about his work at home. As a child we were never affected by his success or failure. There was no Friday fear at home," actress said.

Athiya loved her father in comedies but stayed away from watching his action movies. "I did not watch many of my father's fi lms because he used to do action movies. So when anyone punched my dad I used to get scared."

Alia cried while dancing with Shahid in 'Shaandaar'

A

ctress Alia Bhatt felt nervous while matching dance steps with her co-star Shahid Kapoor in their forthcoming fi lm Shaandaar and even cried as she tried to perfect her task.

Shaandaar is scheduled to release coinciding with Dussehra next month.

"Gulabo.. was the fi rst song that Shahid and I had to do. I was damn nervous dancing with him. I had to have at least 10 per cent of his energy. He has 100 per cent. I rehearsed a lot. I did work

hard a lot," Alia said. "I cried also for this, for getting such (hard) steps. But Shahid helped me a lot," she said. Choreographer Bosco too agreed that Alia did cry while perfecting her dance steps. Shahid said he faced a lot of competition from his 22-year-old co-star as she would be rehearsing while he was hanging out on the sets.

"Today's actors are 'shana' (smart).

We usually used to hang out everyday after the shoot. I got to know that Alia used to rehearse. As she wanted to get better than me. There was competition for it." Both the actors broke into a jig in front of media at the event.

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Akshay Kumar, Neeraj Pandey collaborate again for 'Rustom'

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uperstar Akshay Kumar and fi lmmaker Neeraj Pandey, who have worked together in Special 26 and Baby, are re-teaming for an upcoming movie Rustom. While their last two outings had Pandey both as a producer and on the director's chair, Rustom will have the A Wednesday helmer only producing it under his and Shital Bhatia's banner Friday Filmworks. Akshay, said he was thrilled to star in the fi lm.

"Having worked with Neeraj on two fabulous projects, I am excited to start work on our new fi lm. It gives me and the entire team confidence of this launched worldwide using the global might of Zee," the actor said. Pandey said Akshay was the perfect choice for the romantic-thriller. "We felt that given the nature of the story, Akshay would be the perfect fit and him agreeing will give it the canvas it requires," he said.