The Inside Track July 2019

THE

Volume 13. Issue 07. July 2019 Rs. 25/-

INSIDE TRACK CONNECTING THE DESIGN COMMUNITY Now view our web edition at www.theinsidetrack.in

Cover Story

M

ost would be familiar with the iconic Haji Ali Dargah in the mumbai harbour - the newly restored Ma Haji Ani Dargah is located diagonally opposite the Haji Ali Dargah on the landward side.

Built in 1908 by the Yusuf family, this Dargah is situated on a hilly outcrop, which has today been painstakinlgy restored by architect Vikas Dilawari. This mausoleum belongs to the sister of Haji Ali and is called Ma Haji Ani; the word ‘Ma’ being added as a mark of respect.

It has a watch tower like status that provides a panoromic view of the entire bay which it overlooks.

It is cladded on all sides with an Ashler retaining wall and stands out like a landward fort facing the sea with the Durgah perched on top of it.

Prior to the World War, there was a lot of change in architectural vocabulary in Mumbai. There was a shift from Gothic Revival to Indo Saracenic, which was more responsive to the climate with the introduction of chajjas, jaalis and other elements that serve functional needs. The advent o f In d o - Sa r a c e n i c w a s m o re contextual to religion.

What is unique about this building is that there are traces of colonial architecture which you see in the ‘Double Pilasters’.

A Conservation Effort Done Just Right

Architect Vikas Dilawari painstakingly restores a 100 year old Durgah that now stands out as a subtle landmark in Mumbai.

Built in 1908 by the Yusuf family, the Ma HajiAni Dargah is situated on a hilly outcrop, which has today been painstakinlgy restored by architect Vikas Dilawari

Architect Vikas Dilawari wanted to follow the use of like to like materials to get back the orginal autheticiity of the Durgah, which he managed to do over a period of four years

Even composite capitals are present in the Pilaster. The use of minarets, parapets, chajjas, brackets, multi-foil arches makes the overall characteristic very Indian and Islamic. However, it is a unique experiment with western elements and Indian elements placed together seamlessly without disturbing the overall compostion.

It also has a very distinctive dome which is rectangular, shaped almost like a submarine. The ornate petals that are present here are also very similar to the petals you see at the iconic Prince of Wales Musuem in Mumbai. It is believed that perhaps the architect would have been the same or would have trained with George Whittat, who was the architect of the museum. continued on page 2

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THE INSIDE TRACK July 2019

THE

INSIDE TRACK

CONTENTS

JULY 2019

COVER A Conservation Effort Done STORY Just Right 1 Axor Wins Again At The German Design Awards 4 IKEA’s Urban Village 6 Designed To Encourage Dialogue And Ideas 8 Jaquar Group Launches The Arc Collection 10

continued from page 1 Vikas Dilawari wanted to follow the use of like to like materials to get back the orginal autheticiity of the Durgah, which he managed to do over a period of four years. He went to special carvers in Palitana who helped him replicate the original pieces in limestone.

He has kept the old patina as much as possible and opted for lime wash and traditional materials wherever he could. Where stone repairs were required due to chipping or missing of elements, he has used a process referred to as ‘dentistry repairs’, a technique similar to how continued on page 3

Made With Spin 12 Collaro From Villeroy & Boch 14 Morpheus Hotel Macau By Zaha Hadid 15 Vitra’s Advanced Technologies For Health And Hygiene 16 Try Fanzart’s Unique ‘Summer-Winter Technology’ 18 Captain Virat Kohli Brings New York To New Delhi 19 Be Smart With Häfele Connect 20 What’s The Agenda In Paris? 21 Dhanyakuria: Bengal’s Village Of Castles 22 Owner, Publisher & Printer Mr. Anish R. Bajaj for Marvel Infomedia Pvt. Ltd. Printed at Marvel Infomedia Pvt. Ltd., B 62, 1st Floor, Cotton Exchange Building, Cotton Green Road, Cotton Green, Mumbai 400 033.

Published at B 62, 1st Floor, Cotton Exchange Building, Cotton Green Road, Mumbai 400 033 Tel (022) 23736133/1, 23743069 Editor Mr. Anish R. Bajaj THE INSIDE TRACK Volume 13. Issue 07. July 2019. English - Monthly.

This issue contains 24 pages including both covers.

C r e a t i v e D i r e c t o r N a t a l i e Pe d d e r - B a j a j A s s i s t a n t E d i t o r S h w e t a S a l v i . L a y o u t D e s i g n D a r s h a n Pa l a v, Snigdha Hodarkar M a r ke t i n g : Mumbai, Kamini Kamble Mob: 9833301852, B 62, Cotton Exchange Bldg, Cotton Green, Mumbai 400 033 Tel: (022) 23736133/1, 23743069 Email:response@marvelinfomedia. com.

REDUCE REUSE RECYCLE Recycling old magazines and newspapers is one of the easiest ways to help the environment. To increase the supply of recoverable wood fibre and to reduce the demand on the world’s landfills, THE INSIDE TRACK urges its readers to actively participate in recycling efforts.

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THE INSIDE TRACK July 2019

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continued from page 2 a dentist fills in a gap, which in this case is done with mortar, using the stone dust of the same material.

The flooring of the durgah has a typical geometry which is very exact in nature, a characteristic observed in many Isalmic structures.

Also discreet lighting has been introduced to illuminate the durgah, ensuring that it stands out as a subtle landmark and not where it is shouting for attention.

“The first credit of this whole space goes to the orginal architect which is unknown so salutes to that person. What we were trying to do was to follow the principal of second man, trying to respect what the first person created,” says Vikas Dilawari.

Panel discussion on ‘Shades of History’ at Roca Think Turf in Ahmedabad, (L-R) Dr. Meghal Arya, Mr. Vasavada, Mr, Chatterjee, Mr. Vikas Dilawari, Ms Minakshi Jain

Before Restoration

After Restoration

The conservation team of Vikas Dilawari Architects were confronted with major structural problems, the minarets were out of plumb, the porch was in a precarious condition.

However, these challenges were gradually overcome without trying to rush into things or overdo the effort.

A process of minimum intervention was adhered to that respected the first person’s creation, to finally create a special place of worship that can once again be patronised by citizens of Mumbai.

Before Restoration

After Restoration

Vikas Dilawari recently shared a keynote at the Roca Think Turf event in Ahmedabad. Partnered by Design Owl, Roca Think Turf is a series of architectural conversation that takes place across India. These exchanges aim to create a fellowship of thought leaders to deliver a better environment through a process of inquiry, dialogue and action.

Contact email: anish@designowl.com web: www.designowl.com www.roca.in

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THE INSIDE TRACK July 2019

Spot Light

A

XOR, the design brand for luxurious bathrooms and kitchens within the Hansgrohe Group, received its second design award of the year.

After the ICONIC AWARD 2019 “Best of Best” distinction, the German Design Award in Gold for the AXOR ShowerPipe 800 now follows.

The international expert jury reviewed 5,400 products and projects with the goal of identifying, presenting and rewarding unique design trends. Developed in collaboration with Phoenix Design, the shower system is rightly one of only 50 Gold-distinguished products by the jury. The jury selects one Gold award winner in each category. The ‘Gold’ award honors outstanding achievements in international design and is given only to the best of the best. In special cases the jury can decide to select two Gold winners in each category. “ When a manufacturer of premium fittings launches a new product, expectations tend to be high. And indeed, what AXOR has achieved with its ShowerPipe 800 more than exceeds all expectations, from the standpoint of both form and function. The AXOR ShowerPipe 800 water guiding system stands out from the competition already at first glance, thanks to its delicate design, which is reduced to the essentials, and its elemental design language - which does not visually dominate the bathroom decor, but instead merely rounds it out with elegant understatement.

Axor Wins Again At The German Design Awards The AXOR ShowerPipe 800 captivates through its consistent purist design language and was recently judged a “Gold” winner at the prestigous German Design Awards.

The finely milled and turned edges of the high-quality metal plate of Axor’s ShowerPipe 800 are its defining stylistic features, reflecting superb craftsmanship

Likewise impressive is the s i m p l e , i n t u i t i ve m a n n e r i n which the system is operated. An outstanding product from every standpoint - one that is not only a joy to behold for even the most inured viewer. Also thanks to its innovative PowderRain spray, that makes showering an even more

sensual experience”, stated the jury.

“The AXOR ShowerPipe 800 is the result of a successful interplay between the highest competency in water and product design, as well as decades of experience in the manufacturing of high-quality showers and shower systems”, says

Olivier Sogno, Vice President Brand Management, Hansgrohe SE. “With the German Design Award 2019 in Gold, the jury confirms our innovative spirit and recognizes our design process“.

The AXOR ShowerPipe 800 captivates through its consistent

THE INSIDE TRACK July 2019

In combination with a thermostat, glass shelf and hand shower, the overhead shower turns into the AXOR ShowerPipe 800 shower system

p u r i s t d e s i g n l a n g u a g e . It s imposing circular design captures the bathroom space majestically.

The finely milled and turned edges of the high-quality metal plate are its defining stylistic features, reflecting superb craftsmanship.

In combination with a thermostat, glass shelf and hand shower, the overhead shower turns into the AXOR ShowerPipe 800 shower system. An extravagant system of water channels in a purist pipe design culminates in a revolutionary new spray type: the gentle PowderRain envelops the skin like a silky rain shower and completes the luxurious shower experience. With AXOR FinishPlus special surfaces, added radiance is guaranteed.

AXOR develops, constructs and produces taps, showerheads and accessories for luxurious bathrooms and kitchens to perfection. At the highest aesthetic and technological levels, avantgarde, one-of-a-kind pieces and collections are created.

Some of them are considered classics of bathroom design to this day.

Collectively they embody the claim “Form Follows Perfection“: not ending the developmental process until nothing more can be added or removed. Pacesetting design objects have been developed with this recipe for more than 25 years with worldrenowned designers, among them Philippe Starck, Antonio Citterio, Jean-Marie Massaud and Patricia Urquiola. AXOR is a brand of the Hansgrohe Group.

Contact web: www.axor-design.com www.hansgrohe.com

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THE INSIDE TRACK July 2019

Spot Light

W

ith rapid urbanisation and climbing population rate, the overriding concern of current times is the density vis-a-vis liveability quotient.

Countries like Singapore answer this issue with interconnected high-rises while even ‘low-rise high-density’ typology has been sufficiently explored around the world. However, are these the best models to address desirability standards of liveable cities?

Factors like social relations and quality of natural environment should hold greater significance along with affordability of owning a home. Places that foster community, health and general well-being are important considerations that need to be taken in account. UN projections indicate today’s 55% of the world’s population that lives in urban areas, is expected to increase to 68% by 2050. Evidently showcasing the urgent need to rethink housing and also the means and management of it.

IKEA’s global research and design lab SPACE10 along with Copenhagen’s EFFEKT Architects through thorough research and contemplation have devised a model concept that aims to make future homes more liveable, sustainable and affordable. The goal is to address some of the pressing urban challenges like ‘rapid urbanisation, ageing populations, polarisation, climate change and lack of affordable housing.’

IKEA’s Urban Village IKEA’s SPACE10 and EFFEKT Architects

propose a housing concept which responds to the escalating urban renewal phenomenon. BY SHWETA SALVI

A Sustainable Home View. Made by EFFEKT Architects for SPACE10

Community Social Hub. Made by EFFEKT Architects for SPACE10

The Urban Village Project is a revolutionary vision that facilitates a cross-generational shared habitat to improve the quality of life.

Keeping affordable, sustainable and liveable as the cornerstones for planning, The Urban Village Project, integrates sustainable measures like water harvesting, urban farming, clean energy production, and recycling and also creates tight-knit communities with shared facilities like daycare, fitness, shared transport and communal dining.

“It is clear that unless we rethink our built environment, our cities will become increasingly unsustainable, unaffordable and socially unequal. For us, shared living can offer potential solutions to some of these urgent challenges.

The Urban Village Project looks at how we can create new realities that promote a sense of well-being and turn the spaces we inhabit into healthier and happier places, all while being more affordable and efficient for those that live there.” says Jamiee Williams, Architectural lead, SPACE10 .

Designed for disassembly. Made by EFFEKT Architects for SPACE10

THE INSIDE TRACK July 2019

With the Urban Village project, IKEA expands its assembly model to a larger scale. The application of modular housing system in the project ensures that the buildings can be easily flat-packed in response to shifting population needs, and can be reassembled instead of being demolished and discarded. This scalable building system not only ensures a more sustainable and CO2-reducing construction option but also is a holistic approach to the management and life cycle of our buildings. The system will not only reduce construction cost, but would allow enough freedom to the users to modify and retrofit their home. It is a thoughtfully designed system that can cater to any type of design programs which could include a single home or even a 50 storied high-rise.

“Urban Villages is based on a modular building system which allows us to configure a wide range of different housing typologies for different urban settings.

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Infill Village Europe. Made by EFFEKT Architects for SPACE10

Local Material Village Medellin. Made by EFFEKT Architects for SPACE10

Vertical Village Asia. Made by EFFEKT Architects for SPACE10

The system is designed for disassembly, unlocking a truly circular material loop where building components and materials can be reused and replaced rather than wasted. This could be a game changer for the building industry.” says Sinus Lynge, partner, EFFEKT Architects.

Urban Village Project’s standardised modular system is made out of crosslaminated timber. This layered wood product has greater compressive and tensile strength and since wood is a renewable material it has less

environmental impact as well.

The digital layer designed

by Norgram studio makes the community-style living more wellwired and self-sufficient. This interface would essentially empower and enable people to live more flexibly and foster a feeling of control over the home and finances while also connecting people to services and facilities. The concept also talks about introduction of new subscription-based model which would permit fair access to low income sectors.

Ikea’s Urban Village Project concept aptly addresses the looming housing crisis and holds the potential to change the way we live by providing healthier and happier homes in our neighbourhoods.

Contact web: www.urbanvillageproject.com Photo credit: All images and illustrations: ‘Made by EFFEKT Architects for SPACE10”

Street View. Made by EFFEKT Architects for SPACE10

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THE INSIDE TRACK July 2019

Spot Light

“C

onnecting Experiences” was the theme of the Poltrona Frau collection at the 2019 Salone del Mobile. An extremely topical concept with plenty of implications and areas for discussion.

Architect Michele De Lucchi, who was responsible for the design of the Poltrona Frau Stand, interpreted this idea with a kind of agora, a public space designed to stimulate dialogue and exchange between people.

Going back to antiquity the market square was the centre and beating heart of the city, a place where things happened, decisions were taken and people met up, sometimes clashing with each other. To this day Italy remains a country of squares, courts and hidden courtyards.

Faithful to this DNA, the Poltrona Frau Stand develops around a central patio, a large eyecatching space with a lattice roof made from a weave of wooden strips inspired by the treillage of Italianstyle gardens.

The ring-shaped route winds around a series of rooms which all look out onto a central courtyard with a game of perspectives that is accentuated by the large proportions and lofty heights that bring to mind the ceilings of historic palazzi and Renaissance villas.

An aesthetic richness that transmits a sense of beauty, luxury and wonder, exalting the settings a n d t h e f u r n i t u re d i s p l a ye d within. In the words of Michele De Lucchi, “The true wonder of the space can be seen when the proportions and perspectives create

Designed To Encourage Dialogue And Ideas

“Connecting Experiences”, was the inspiration used by Michele De Lucchi as the theme for Poltrona Frau’s stand at the recent Salone del Mobile exposition in Milan.

Architect Michele De Lucchi, was responsible for the design of the Poltrona Frau Stand, interpreted this idea with a kind of agora, a public space designed to stimulate dialogue and exchange between people

an image that takes us beyond the realm of everyday, standardised and conventional items and into a world of dreams where even the most unlikely things are somehow possible”.

T h e Po l t r o n a Fr a u s t a n d

therefore embodied an aesthetic which for Poltrona Frau was not just a question of formal beauty but the consequence of an intimate and spontaneous notion of openness, of balance, of dialogue between people, spaces and things.

“Connecting Experiences” is an inspirational concept that generates creativity and positive energy. Two things of which we have great need in modern life and society.

Contact web: www.poltronafrau.com

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THE INSIDE TRACK July 2019

Spot Light

T

he Jaquar Group, India’s leading ‘Complete Bathroom and Lighting’ solutions brand has received the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Platinum certification for its bath fittings manufacturing facility in Bhiwadi, Rajasthan.

Roman architecture and engineering is among the most lauded architectural forms of the world.

It has had a major impact on art, building practices and urban planning across the centuries and even today, top architects and designers take inspiration from it to create beautiful pieces of art and design.

Jaquar Group, drawing inspiration from similar arcs, has launched the Arc collection, which has been designed by the globally acclaimed architect and designer, Frederico Meroni. The collection follows precision of details and expresses an appreciation for form, functionality, subtlety of texture and quality of material.

The Arc collection by Frederico Meroni combines the simplicity of the arc with the complexity of a morphing section. Each of the products in the range plays with the reassurance of a familiar geometry and the surprise of the water spout which, very naturally, falls in the hands.

The products ensure controlled fluidity, smooth architecture and measured proportions, while also adding timeless perfection to them in the wide range of colour finishes.

The Arc collection include best in class features like a soft water flow, where aerators integrated with honeycomb structure offer protection from lime build-up and provide soft flow of water.

Jaquar Group Launches The Arc Collection

Inspired by the classic designs of Roman architecture, the Arc collection by Frederico Meroni combines the simplicity of the arc with the complexity of a morphing section.

The Arc collection follows precision of details and expresses an appreciation for form, functionality, subtlety of texture and quality of material

As well as optimum flow and temperature compatibility, where the faucets are designed to work smoothly at high temperature (up to 85 degree) and various pressure conditions (0.5 to 5 bar).

Each of the cartridges used in the products are tested 5 lakh times

The Arc products ensure controlled fluidity, smooth architecture and measured proportions, while also adding timeless perfection to them in the wide range of colour finishes

to ensure a longer and trouble free operating life, and the high plating thickness (nickel 10 micron & chrome 0.3 micron) provides tolerance to extreme climate and water conditions.

The Arc collection also comes with an assurance and warranty up to

10 years and are avalible in Riveting shades of Antique Bronze, Antique Copper, Black Chrome, Black Matt Finish, Gold Dust, Full Gold, Graphite, Stainless Steel Finish and White Matt.

Contact web: www.jaquar.com

The Jaquar Group manufacturing unit in Bhiwadi is spread across 35,000 square metres

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THE INSIDE TRACK July 2019

Interview

T

he homegrown furniture brand, Spin, offers a wide range of products that are user-friendly and are crafted with a dollop of global charm. Emphasising on a clutter-free ideology, their daily object product range offers functional yet aesthetic solutions.

Spin tells The Inside Track about their brand’s philosophy which is firmly built on ‘Iki’, a Japanese concept epitomising simple aesthetic, and ‘Hygge’ a Danish concept that denotes happy and cosy.

Made With Spin Spin celebrates the art of simple aesthetics by crafting happy objects that complement modern living.

Tell us something about the inception and intent behind Spin.

Spin was founded in 2017 with an ambition to create objects which are simple, accessible and detailed but with a complex background story of creation. This is the whole idea behind SPIN where our ambition is to bring Nordic aesthetics and quality to be widely available to Indian and global consumers.

Neo Day Bed

What is the underlying design philosophy behind all your collections?

Tell us about the entire scope of work undertaken by Spin.

Using metal and wood as primary materials, our design philosophy is to craft happy objects with minimal aesthetics to complement modern living while adding a dimension of joy to everyday spaces.

We are creating spin as a design philosophy which is limitless. We design, manufacture and retail a diverse product range: from a crafted cloth hanger to a solid oak four poster bed.

Hugo

We consistently create and launch new products which keeps our range fresh & brimming with possibilities. You could choose anything from creative desk organisers, planters, mirrors, lighting and shelving. Our larger product portfolio includes exciting home bars, solid oak centre tables, bar stools, chairs, dining tables and beds.

Hikari

What drives product development at Spin?

We propagate a minimal, clutterfree space culture. We follow a strict policy of creating and developing only and only welldesigned products. It is our solemn resolve to not up the world clutter

THE INSIDE TRACK July 2019

count by bringing in a piece that adds no or little value towards our vision of adding joy to everyday spaces.

furniture. He/she is travelling globally and is picking up objects from all over the globe and appreciates the aesthetics which spin brings along.

Your furniture collections are sensibly crafted and celebrate the spirit of simplicity. Is there a conscious thought behind the development of each creation?

Yes, definitely . A zero tolerance policy against creating products that add little or no value to the world and a design language that is simple, straight forward and happy imparts simplicity and sensibility of each of our creation.

While on that, Spin’s Design language stands upon the pillars of ‘Iki’ and ‘Hygge’ design concepts.

‘Iki’ is a Japanese concept of aesthetics epitomising simplicity, style, sophistication, spontaneity, a n d o r i g i n a l i t y i n a d i re c t , unabashed fashion.

‘Hygge’ on the other hand is a Danish concept representing a culture of cosy, comfortable and joyous living. Cuddling up with your loved ones, reading your favourite story, blowing a large bubble, sipping a hot cup of cocoa are all hygge

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Your product collection is suggestively contemporary in nature; in future, would you like to adopt our country’s extensive craft heritage and blend it with your own signature style?

We are unabashedly contemporary and minimal. With its rich and diverse craft heritage, India has opulence and intricate details at the heart of its design tradition which is in stark contrast with ours. Opulent and beautiful but altogether, it echoes a completely different ethos than ours.

Looking into future, we are working on some interesting collaboration between the two design traditions.

Whether that would be in the material used or design per se, we cannot comment at the moment but rest assured that the outcome will echo our minimal ethos.

With the alarming increase in environmental hazards, it has become crucial to be responsible while choosing materials and manufacturing products. Does Spin take any special measures to counter environmental deterioration?

Cairo Leatherite

We at SPIN are extremely conscious about the fact that we humans are solely responsible for the current state of planet and are heading towards disaster. We use only ecologically friendly materials in our products and we are constantly experimenting with new ones as well. The plastic usage in all our products is less that 1%. We use water based and environmentally paints on our wood finishes and our complete manufacturing is ISO certified.

What are you currently working on and any plan to expand you’re work portfolio in future?

Nyx Trolley

which is basically an attitude of awareness about simple things in life that bring you joy and happiness.

Tell us something about your latest collections and offerings in the market.

Like all things Spin; our latest collection also is edgy, fuss-free and adds a subtle dimension of joy to everyday spaces.

We are launching some beautiful everyday usage products like magazine

trays, storage boxes, locker, trolley, clocks etc. Their simple, vibrant, modern design makes them a joy to have around.

Also, we have introduced some exciting new colours and textures to Spin palette to bring in a happy air of cozy minimalism into homes and office spaces.

There is a marked evolution in how design is perceived in India.

Today, the end-user acknowledges the

importance of both ergonomics and aesthetics while purchasing furniture.

How has the market and the customer changed over the years?

We at SPIN believe that India is on a cusp of a design transformation where stimulating work is happening in industrial and product design and is recognised at a global stage. The consumer in India is also evolving and demanding products which breaks the tradition of classical Indian objects and

Designing inspiring products with mundane functionalities is a challenge we have taken head-on and we are busy working on the same. In future, you will see us add a wider array of smaller, well-designed daily use pieces from us. This off course is in addition to broadening of our larger product lines like Kitchens, wall-systems, seating etc.

Where can people buy your products: in-store/online/directly from you?

SPIN products are sold online at our website http://www.madewithspin. com and on ground at our concept studio in New Delhi.

Contact email: care@madewithspin.com web: www.madewithspin.com

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THE INSIDE TRACK July 2019

Spot Light

H

igh-quality materials and a distinctive look - this combination makes the Collaro collection from Villeroy and Boch instantly recognisable. The recessed design edge of Collaro is a very stylish feature that cleverly emphasises the slender shapes of the TitanCeram washbasins. Collaro therefore creates a timelessly beautiful living space that conveys an immediate sense of wellbeing - at a surprising price.

The washbasin as an eye-catcher The washbasin is a central element in any bathroom. It sets the tone for the style of the entire space: from classic to modern, or minimalist to elegant. Collaro features a linear and yet homely look, with attractive narrow edges and slender walls. The premium bathroom collection therefore reflects the enduring trend towards greater lightness - giving it a very distinctive character.

This new sensation of lightness in the bathroom has been made possible thanks to the development of the material TitanCeram. The titanium oxide in the formulation refines the ceramic and allows the creation of shapes combining extraordinary strength with a timeless look - also available with the exceptionally beautiful and extremely resistant TitanGlaze in the matt shade of Stone White.

Wi t h a w i d e s e l e c t i o n o f washbasins, Collaro offers the perfect solution for different tastes and room configurations. From vanity unit to surface-mounted or wall-mounted, single or double basin, round or square, the 15 different models open up extensive scope for interior design.

Collaro From Villeroy & Boch

At this year’s ISH in Frankfurt, Villeroy & Boch presented Collaro, a new collection with a strong character. vanity units coordinating with the washbasins and available in 10 ontrend colours.

Dimmable lighting makes the recessed groove in colourcoordinating aluminium a real feature - adding atmosphere to the entire space as well as the actual unit. The collection includes matching tall cabinets and side cabinets to address any need for additional storage space. One practical extra feature is the option of an integrated laundry hatch in the tall cabinet.

Collaro surface-mounted washbasins can be combined with furniture from the Legato and Finion series.

Customised relaxation: Collaro bathtubs in different looks Collaro acrylic bathtubs reflect

Collaro acrylic bathtubs reflect the character of the washbasins and impress with a distinctive fusion of lightness and comfort

highlight is the optional water inlet that fills the bathtub like a softly flowing waterfall.

The collection Collaro includes t h re e d i f f e re n t b a c k - t o - w a l l bathtubs and built-in baths in different sizes. The monolith baths can be supplied with an elegant panel in your personal favourite colour.

Contact email: Surti.Hemangini@villeroyboch.com web: www.villeroy-boch.asia.com

Collaro bathroom furniture: storage space and statement in one Collaro offers a selection of spacious

This new sensation of lightness in the bathroom has been made possible thanks to the development of the material TitanCeram

the character of the washbasins and impress with a distinctive fusion of lightness and comfort.

Their dynamic shape is inspired by a harmonious interaction of rounded edges and flowing lines.

The wide rim on one side of the tub coordinates with the design of the washbasins while at the same time providing a practical surface for storage. The integrated outlet and overflow solution in Chrome, Champagne, Gold or Black Matt is another striking design feature. One particular

Collaro offers a selection of spacious vanity units coordinating with the washbasins and available in 10 on-trend colours

THE INSIDE TRACK July 2019

Spot Light

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he Melco Crown Entertainment’s 40-storey luxury hotel has the effect of an organic sculpture that is both curious-looking but at the same time seems to have been tailor made for the legendary “City of Dreams” in Cotai, Macau: an icon that is a hallmark of modern Macau and the last word in luxury.

But there’s more to it than its mere outward appearance: the building’s facts and figures are also astonishing. This is no surprise given that Zaha Hadid,

Morpheus Hotel Macau By Zaha Hadid

She may be gone but she cannot be forgotten!

As one of her last works, world-famous architect Zaha Hadid designed a unique monument.

The organic-looking steel structure is the world’s largest exoskeleton and a marvel of structural and general engineering

the only woman to have won the Pritzker Prize, has dreamt up a hotel in unorthodox materials that features spectacular architecture, impressive structural engineering and a unique look: an edifice that is striking on the outside and is constantly revealing new angles, perspectives and pathways on the inside.

Inspired by the lucky jade figures of past millennia, Zaha Hadid opted for an outer form and construction that at the same

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time is severely deterministic over the interior yet also affords t h e g re a t e s t p o s s i b l e d e s i g n freedom. How is that possible?

The organic-looking steel structure is the world’s largest exoskeleton and a marvel of structural and general engineering.

At a height of 160 meters, a total of 28,000 tons of steel supports 70,000 m3 of reinforced concrete.

The grid-like steel, aluminum and glass structure lends the building its rhythmic, fluid aesthetic.

The 730 five-star-plus hotel rooms and the hotel’s public bathrooms, which are all fitted with SensoWash i shower-toilets from Duravit

Openings in the building create additional complexity, volume and texture, both connecting and separating the two towers of the building

Openings in the building create additional complexity, volume and texture, both connecting and separating the two towers of the building. In the interior, this construction approach creates structural freedom and facilitates an extravagant interior design, such as the 730 five-star-plus hotel rooms and the hotel’s public bathrooms, which are all fitted with SensoWash i showertoilets from Duravit.

Or the spectacular, 40-meter high hotel atrium-lobby which is intersected by two air bridges.

Panoramic elevators provide unexpected views of the atrium and the intriguing openings in the building. Rounded off by individual, integrated and exclusive villas, various Michelin star restaurants, casinos and a shopping mall as well as a breathtaking infinity pool on the 40th floor – this hotel leaves no desires unfulfilled. And Morpheus, from whom the hotel took its name, makes sure that even the biggest dream can come true.

Contact web: www.archdaily.com

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THE INSIDE TRACK July 2019

Spot Light

V

itrA, the leading bathroom solutions brand of Eczacıbaşı Building Products Division in Turkey offers advanced innovative hygiene technologies along with cohesive elegant styles with a variety of products that have won many international awards and recognition. VitrA underlines the importance of hygiene, with userfriendly solutions.

VitrA Hygiene is a technology which offers benefits in terms of health. It has ION Technology that prevents harmful bacteria by 99.9%.

Maximum hygiene is ensured on the surfaces developed with this method. VitrA Hygiene does not lose its protection feature even under intense usage conditions. This special glaze is tested and approved by worldwide impartial research institutes. The special glaze coats all external and internal surfaces prior to firing in a process that ensures VitrA Hygiene protection for VitrA ceramicware throughout its lifetime.

VitrA toilets also come with the choice of having the special VitrA Clean surface finish that makes VitrA tiles and sanitaryware products incredibly easy to care for. This special glazing process increases surface tension, meaning water and soil flows easily from the surface. All that’s needed to keep surfaces clean is a wipe with a damp cloth and the use of a mild cleanser, providing long-term time savings, both in residential and commercial environments.

Another innovation from VitrA is VitrAfresh. This inorporates a liquid cleaner tank on top of the WC pan that adds detergent to the flushing water, maximizing hygiene and freshening the air with every flush.

You can also get VitrA’s quick release seat, with its thoughtful design and its pioneering rimless WC pan it prevents germ proliferation,

Vitra’s Advanced Technologies For Health And Hygiene

VitrA has developed a range of new-age technologies and integrated them into their product offerings ensuring consumers benefit greatly in terms of health and hygiene. making it the most hygienic toilet that is available for many bathroom styles.

VitrA’s uber-innovative products, systems and solutions take hygiene to a whole new level: from WCs to washbasins or urinals and spaces. VitrA’s smart bathrooms with automated functionalities give greater impetus to comfort and hygiene, while making operating them extremely easy.

VitrA is a leading brand of Eczacıba şı, a prominent Turkish

VitrA Hygiene is a technology which offers benefits in terms of health. It has ION Technology that prevents harmful bacteria by 99.9%

VitrAfresh inorporates a liquid cleaner tank on top of the WC pan that adds detergent to the flushing water, maximizing hygiene and freshening the air with every flush

industrial group. Eczacıba şı, core sectors are building products, healthcare and consumer products.

VitrA manufacturers 5 million units of sanitary ware, 350,000 bathtubs, 370,000 units of bathroom furniture, 3 million faucets and 2.5 million bathroom accessories every year. 50% of production is exported to over 75 countries worldwide for sale in 150 exclusive showrooms and 2,000 sales points across the world.

Contact web: www.vitra-india.com

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THE INSIDE TRACK July 2019

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common misbelief is that fans only circulate cool air making them a must-have in summer only. But with Fanzart, India’s first luxury fan brand you can keep your home warm during the cooler months as well, all the while absorbing only 30 watts of power, which is more eco-friendly than a conventional fan.

The brand brings its special Summer-Winter Technology to 30 new models, starting with its wooden ceiling fans, the Maple Series. Not only can the Maple rotate in an anti-clockwise direction but it keeps your room warmer in colder climes, allowing you to lower the thermostat thus decreasing your electricity usage.

High on functionality but with no compromise on its looks, the modern Maple is accentuated by a natural soothing maple colour.

With its BLDC motor and whisper quiet technology, 3X airflow and 5 natural wooden blades, the Maple has to be experienced to be believed.

Fan blades can be customised to match any lacquer finish.

Charming yet versatile, the fan uses an energy-efficient motor that consumes 30w of power, while its super-efficient DC motor uses up to 3 times less electricity than a typical ceiling fan.

Speaking about the newest technology, Mr. Anil Lala, Director, Fanzart India explains, “In the summer, the Summer-Winter fans will cut back on air conditioning without sacrificing comfort, while in winter, you can stay warm with its unique technology.

Try Fanzart’s Unique ‘Summer-Winter Technology’

It works anti clockwise for a cool breeze and clockwise for cozy warm air, sthat’s how easy it is with Fanzart fans.

BY NATALIE PEDDER-BAJAJ

With its good looks and amazing wooden design, fan blades can be customised to match any lacquer finish

Ideal for adding comfort to a bedroom or family room, the SummerWinter fans can be used for cooling or heating a space year round.

Either way, this fan is sure to help

you save on energy bills. With its good looks and amazing wooden design, it promises to be the centre of attention during every season.

Priced at Rs. 39,990, the product

It is crafted with light-grained, handcrafted natural wood which can be polished to

is available online at www.fanzartfans. com and also at over 54 Fanzart stores across India.

Contact web: www.fanzartfans.com

THE INSIDE TRACK July 2019

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esigned by Zeppelin, a multidisciplinary strategic design studio with an integrated team of branding, design and engineering professionals, Nueva echos accustomed sumptuousness with finishes in wood and marble.

Laid out over two floors, the ground floor opens out onto a luxury lounge and bar, a semi-formal space, while marble spiral stairs take you to level two, the dinning part of the restaurant dotted with groups of seating for an undisturbed dinning experience. Big glass panels allow a glimpse into the state-of-the-art bustling kitchen, the heart of chef Micheal Swamy’s creations.

Captain Virat Kohli Brings New York To New Delhi In the frenzy of the cricket world cup, we thought it would only be appropriate to highlight Nueva, a culinary collaboration between popular chef, writer, food stylist, and travel photographer Chef Michael Swamy and our dashing Indian captain Virat Kohli.

The ground floor opens out onto a luxury lounge and bar, a semi-formal space

The pristine white of the kitchen walls stand out from the warm earthy colours of the adjoining dining space.

The design idea alludes to characteristics of native America, thus connecting to the South American cuisine served at the restaurant.

Recipes have been inspired by the mighty Inca and Moche civilisations

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and the kitchens of the Creole people. From Peru, Chile, Columbia and the culinary fares of Spanish Conquistadors, French merchants, Portuguese colonists, Dutch treasure seekers and Asian immigrants, Nueva is a smorgasbord of all things South American.

Geometric and hexagonal forms often found in native American art

The set of globular lights manufactured by Klove Studio correlates with the radial shape of the space

have been fashioned in a modern way, while brass inlays on wooden paneling and plush leather furniture gives the space some visual relief.

The piece de resistance though is the set of globular lights manufactured

by Klove Studio in the dining space.

The design team envisaged a pattern of spherical lights that correlated with the radial shape of the space.

Laid out over two floors, spiral stairs take you to level two, the dinning part of the restaurant

Indian skipper Virat Kohli is the promoter of Nueva, while his brother, Vikas is one of the owners along with Sharad and Vikrant Batra of Cafe Delhi Heights fame.

Nueva is now the place to see and be seen, while sampling the great cuisine.

Contact web: www.zeppelindesign.net

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THE INSIDE TRACK July 2019

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ou can buy the most novel piece of furniture or a modern piece of art, and you can be sure of the fact that a tiny LED module will find itself in or around it to amplify the concept with a strong effectiveness. This is made possible because LED technology nowadays has limitless possibilities to integrate and connect!

Exploiting this versatility, Häfele has utilised its experience as the trailblazer in furniture lighting and designed a holistic solution for residences and businesses through its Häfele Connect concept. Häfele Connect is the key to smart, networked furniture and rooms.

H ä f e l e ’s i n t e r n a t i o n a l l y successful Loox LED lighting system for light and sound in furniture is the starting point, where an innovative, intelligent and wireless system connects and operates the lighting of your entire interior space and links it to a smart device - a seamless end-solution that can be easily managed and operated. With Häfele Connect you can now create the perfect atmosphere for many moods and settings in any room of your home or office without moving anything more than a finger on your smart screen.

The Häfele Connect app connects itself to the Connect BLE boxes (Bluetooth low energy technology - the power conserving variant of Bluetooth designed for use by Internet-connected machines and appliances) via bluetooth and makes it possible to intuitively control Loox Furniture Lighting and electrically operated fittings.

Be Smart With Häfele Connect

With the advances in LED technology, the integration of lights in any design concept has become substantial. BY NATALIE PEDDER-BAJAJ

With Häfele Connect create the perfect atmosphere without moving anything more than a finger

With the Häfele Connect App and Connect BLE boxes in place, users are provided with a comprehensive range of control options, including change of light colour with RGB lights or adjustments in the colour temperature with multi white lights. Different lights can be bundled together, allowing many variation to be stored and timecontrolled or called up with a simple finger press. Thanks to an easy ‘Plug and Play,’ this system can also be added to existing installations without changing anything.

Contact web: www.hafeleindia.com

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rom September 6-10, 2019, MAISON&OBJET will be turning the spotlight on a brand new theme: WORK! This season’s theme is all about the workplace revolution: new living spaces. Our changing connection with work, compelled by social change, is restructuring our offices. Work is now nomadic and an integrated formula has led to the growth of co-working spaces, which offer a more relaxed and flexible schedule. ln the age of social media, employees are now personalising their workspace. Coming to terms with these new obstacles, manufacturers, distributors, space planners are turning to residential design to give workspaces more flare, making them more friendly, comfortable and creative, in turn aiding companies to draw in and secure talent.

The theme’s rousing new discoveries (furnishings, items and accessories that can help add personality to a new workspace) will be curated by Chantal Hamaide and staged by Philippe Boisselier and will be featured in one of the “What’s New” zones.

A lighting designer, a product designer inspired by his industrial Midwestern roots and a pair of artistic cousins who make sculptural metal furnishings - these are a few of the innovative Americans to look forward to, selected for the 2019 Rising Talent Awards.The Rising Talent Awards train a spotlight on up and coming design excellence in specific parts of the globe. Previous honourees included the United Kingdom, Italy, Lebanon and China. And now a prominent jury has scrutinised American design and selected six individual practitioners or firms with outstanding skills and promise.

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What’s The Agenda In Paris?

Since 1995, MAISON&OBJET has been the world’s go to event for lifestyle, interior design and design industry professionals.

BY NATALIE PEDDER-BAJAJ

MASON&OBJET’S theme is rousing new discoveries (furnishings, items and accessories that can help add personality to a new workspace) will be curated by Chantal Hamaide and staged by Philippe Boisselier and will be featured in one of the “What’s New” zones

At 37, architect Laura Gonzalez is a well known name across Paris, and for the past two years has been expanding her operations overseas, marking her “reworked classical” chic on a vast majority of restaurants, bars, hotels and stores.

MASON&OBJET is delighted to be giving this extraordinarily talented and inventive the Designer of the Year accolade.

“I feel that spaces need to have their own soul.” The architect, who trained at the ParisMalaquais School of Architecture, has been employing that mentality with great aplomb to all her space since launching her firm in 2008.

Some of those spaces she has re-designed are the Alcazar, Hotel Christine, the Brasserie La Lorraine, whilst others she has designed from the beginning, giving her creative flair no boundaries are the Manko, the Noto, the Louboutin stores in Barcelona and Amsterdam and Cartier in Stockholm, Zurich and London.

The architect has transformed all these projects with her novel genius, updating classical references with boundless imagination.

Laura Gonzalez is currently working on a brand new project that echoes her Latin sense of exuberance, inherited from her Spanish mother: renovating a mansion in the Vexin to create

what she calls a “living showroom.”

It’s a place where she intends to welcome clients, craftsmen, chefs, journalists, etc. Where she will display vintage finds, alongside her brand new furniture and lighting ranges.

Nowadays, anyone who walks into a café, hotel or restaurant is looking for so much more than just food or a comfortable bed.

Today’s customers are demanding, well informed and acutely aware of good design, even if they’re just there to grab a quick cuppa!

They’re often on the lookout for “Instagrammable” venues, offering one-of-a-kind experiences t h a t d o n’t j u s t s a t i s f y t h e i r

At 37, architect Laura Gonzalez is a well known name across Paris, and for the past two years has been expanding her operations overseas, marking her “reworked classical” chic on a vast majority of restaurants, bars, hotels and stores

taste buds but stimulate every single sense.

MAISON&OBJET showcases a range of solutions to help hospitality professionals give the 2.0 customer exactly what they want. Structured around key themes, the event displays a myriad of brands. The “Forever” (timeless classics), “Unique & Eclectic” (championing global creativity), and “Today” (a distillation of the spirit of our times) zones notably attract café owners, hoteliers and restaurateurs, enticing them to a selection of the latest furnishings and design solutions from international designers.

Over at the ‘What’s New?’ zone, two exhibits curated by M A I S O N & O B J E T ’s t r e n d hunters will decode the most innovative trends in the restaurant and hospitality sector.

At “Share,” François Delclaux will showcase his up-to-the-minute take on dining, sociable spaces and restaurants. At “Care,”meanwhile, Elizabeth Leriche will explore the modern day approach to entertaining and hosting.

Launched in September 2016, the digital platform MOM (MAISON&OBJET AND MORE) offers a thorough look at the latest news from exhibiting labels, manufacturers, artisans, craftspeople and designers. An irreplaceable guide of inspiration, it also lets visitors establish direct contact with thousands of brands all year round.

MAISON&OBJET brings together some 3,000 exhibitors and over 75,000 unique visitors twice a year, initiating connections and unveiling new talent. Have you booked your ticket yet?

Contact Maison&Objet Raj Anand & Associates 46/2,SindhiSociety, Chembur, Mumbai 400071 Email: raj@rajanandassociates.com web: www.maison-objet.com Tel: +91-22-25224081 Cell:+91-9833685256

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THE INSIDE TRACK July 2019

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eep in the Bengali heartland is a fairy land come to life.

Virtually leaping off the landscape like a pop-up storybook is a village of exquisite castles, regal palaces and aristocratic mansions sporting the finest medieval European architecture.

Like real-life illustrations of Western folk lore, the castles are decked in pointy towers and square turrets, spindly spires and stepped gables, and boast gardens with ponds and cherubs. Why, here, you could be Rapunzel for a day or, if you prefer something darker, the Wicked Queen Grimhilde from Snow White.

But what is a page from the Brothers Grimm doing in Bengal’s North 24 Parganas? This Disney-esque nook is called Dhanyakuria, a village 55 km from Kolkata, on the Taki Road, as you head north-east towards Basirhat.

Some of these grand, period mansions are well over two centuries old but they were not, as one might imagine, built by the British colonial elite.

Why Dhanyakuria According to the recently published Dictionary of Historical Places: Bengal, 1757–1947, Dhanyakuria was once part of the Sunderbans and thus covered in thick jungle and full of saline water bodies. The village was converted into a habitable settlement in 1742, when one Jagannath Das settled here with his family, and cleared away the forests.

Gate of Gaine Summerhouse

Dhanyakuria: Bengal’s Village Of Castles

A short drive from Kolkata is a hamlet guaranteed to stop you dead in your tracks - Dhanyakuria, or Bengal’s Disneyland, complete with ‘medieval’ castles and palaces.

Only, these are for real. mansions and baganbaris or ‘garden retreats’, influenced by medieval European architecture.

These families also played an important role in local philanthropy.

In 1885, Mahendranath Gaine and Upendranath Sawoo, for instance, built the first English-medium school in Dhanyakuria. In 1888, Sawoo built a charitable hospital in the village, which also got a girl’s school in 1893. During famines, the families were known to give the locals free food.

This vintage structure, called ‘Gaine Castle’, was built by Mahendranath Gaine, and was the baganbari or ‘garden retreat’ of the Gaine family before it was acquired by the West Bengal government in 1960s

After Das put down roots in Dhanyakuria, the families of many other traders like the Gaines, Sawoos, Ballavs and Mandals too set up home in these idyllic parts. Their arrival coincided with the blossoming of plantations and increasing prosperity in the region. The thriving trade in rice and sugarcane, over time, allowed these settlers to build great

Coat of arms of Gaine Family

Gaine Castle - A Fusion Architectural Marvel This vintage structure, called ‘Gaine Castle’, was built by Mahendranath Gaine, and was the baganbari or ‘garden retreat’ of the Gaine family before it was acquired by the West Bengal government in 1960s. It is Dhanyakuria’s biggest attraction.

The castle-like building looks a tad rundown today but the old grandeur is impossible to miss. It has arches on the balcony and entrance doors and the Gaine family’s ‘coat of arms’ in at least three places on the exterior walls.

If you manage to get permission to stroll on the premises, take note of a

THE INSIDE TRACK July 2019

The Thakurdalan of Gaine Family residential house

portico on one side of the ‘castle’. You will notice several delightful sculptures of European jesters beneath the firstfloor balcony.

Next to Gaine Castle is a small, two-storey, modern mansion, which once housed a state government-run girl’s orphanage. It was shut abruptly in October 2018, apparently because the building needed maintenance. At present, there’s a police picket outside, and convincing them to allow you to enter the mansion’s grounds is not easy.

Other Mansions of Dhanyakuria Of the many mansions in the village, the estates of Gaine, Ballav and Sawoo are well maintained. The entry to the cluster of mansions is through a midsize lane from Taki Road, just beside the Gaine baganbari. While passing through this lane, called Dhanyakuria Benepara Road, you will see Dhanyakuria High School on your left.

Gaine Mansion While ‘Gaine Castle’ was the family’s country home, there’s another palatial structure, in the main village, called ‘Gaine Mansion’, which served as the family’s principal residence. Painted in light pink, the ‘L’ shaped mansion is another excellent example of fusion architecture.

The stately, two-storey structure is studded with Ionian pillars and is defined by long, open corridors on both floors. These corridors connect with rooms leading off from them. The rooms at the back of the building are covered with window shades. Each end of the mansion boasts a roof-dome, which adds to the grandeur of the building.

There is also a stunning threestorey tower with a dome, named ‘Nazar Minar’ on the grounds. It has four Corinthian pillars in each of its corners. While the first two storeys have rounded arches, those on the top floor have been built in Islamic in style.

Gaine Mansion was built by Gobinda Chandra Gaine and it was expanded by his son, Mahendranath Gaine, in the mid-19th century.

Since they enjoyed British patronage, they built mansions inspired by those in Europe. Mahendranath Gaine, the most illustrious member of the family, owned many jute mills and was a prominent member of the Bengal Chamber of Commerce.

Gaine Mansion is currently occupied by Monjit Gaine and his family, descendants of the original owners. Monjit tells me that the Gaine family of Dhanaykuria traded with the English and amassed a

Decorative window on Sawoo residential house

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Gaine Family residential house Swaoo

fortune doing business in jute, jaggery and other agricultural products. There was a time when they owned properties in several parts of Calcutta as well as in Bangladesh. He proudly says the annual Durga Puja is still celebrated with pomp and show in the mansion’s colossal Durga Dalan (courtyard for Durga worship).

Just beside Gaine Mansion is the temple of the presiding deity of the family - Shyamsundar Jiu. This single-storey building is also distinctly European in style, and just like the main house, is ‘L’ shaped and painted pink. The temple is said to have been built in 1821.

Sawoo Mansion & Sawoo Baganbari Apart from the two properties of the Gaine family, Dhanyakuria boasts the country estate and principal residence of the Sawoo family as well.

They are in the lane right opposite Gaine Mansion. Painted white, Sawoo Mansion is has embedded Corinthian Pillars on its walls and stucco over the window arches on its exterior. Some of the windows have shades on the arches, while some arches are subdivided into two smaller arches with a stained glass design on them. The mansion

was built by Patit Chandra Sawoo around 200 years ago.

The main door with a beautiful stained glass archway is usually open to visitors. It leads on to a courtyard.

The mansions’ two storeys have long corridors that connect the rooms.

Facing the entrance is a beautiful thakurdalan (ceremonial altar in open courtyard) with five archways decorated with rich stucco work.

Above each archway is stucco on the lunette (semi-circular or ‘half-moon’ space above a door).

To reach the inner sanctum of the thakurdalan, which has a small back door, you have to cross another row of archways bearing design similar to the first. The Sawoo family does not live here and a caretaker is usually available in the early morning hours.

The Sawoo family also built a baganbari or country estate close to this mansion. The premises are large, much like the Gaine baganbari. The Sawoo baganbari is impressive too, but it is nowhere near as glamourous and grand as Gaine Castle.

Ballav Mansion Stroll down a path beside a pond at the back of Sawoo Mansion and you will find another magnificent mansion on your left - the two-storey residence of the Ballav family. Ballav Mansion or ‘Ballav Bati’ was built by Shyamacharan Ballav at around the same time when Gaine Mansion was constructed. The present generation of Ballavs is scattered across West Bengal, including North Kolkata, where the family owns a huge mansion near R G Kar Hospital.

Painted green and white, the Ballav mansion has exquisite iron gates and fencing with matching colour combination. Apart from huge Corinthian pillars, the front of the building has rows of stucco above the corridors on both storeys. The corridor on the top floor is covered with window shades.

On each corner of the terrace is a figure in European attire. Just above the entrance there is a stucco peacock, continued on page 24

Postal Registration No. MCE/129/2017-19 RNI NO. MAHENG/2007/19853. WPP LICENSE NO. MR/TECH/WPP-266/East/2019. POSTED AT MUMBAI PATRIKA CHANNEL SORTING OFFICE, MUMBAI G.P.O. 400001. DATE OF PUBLICATION: 15th OF EVERY MONTH, dATE OF POSTING: 15th & 16th OF EVERY MONTH

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THE INSIDE TRACK July 2019

above which is a figure that resembles a Roman centurion with a crown-like head dress. On each side of this figure is a male figure wearing a moustache and turban. Perhaps this was meant to symbolise loyalty to British lords during the era of Raj. However, these figures have been freshly painted, robbing them of their old-world charm. No one lives in the mansion and the caretaker is seldom seen.

At the end of the grounds is a three-storey tower similar in design to the Nazar Minar of the Gaine family. The only difference is that, unlike Nazar Minar, this structure is outside the premises on which Ballav House stands.

Painted green and white, the Ballav mansion has exquisite iron gates and fencing with matching colour combination.

Apart from huge Corinthian pillars, the front of the building has rows of stucco above the corridors on both storeys

Nine-Pinnacled Rasmancha Further down this road is a huge, twostorey Rasmancha (ceremonial hall) painted white . During the Vaishnava Ras Mela celebrated on full-moon day in the Kartik month, idols of Radha and Krishna are placed here and worshiped.

Statues on top of Ballabh House (Left taken on 2013, Right on 2019)

It has a five-arch entrance on each side of the ground floor. Just like the thakurdalan of the Sawoo house, each pillar beside the archways comprises a number of small Corinthian pilasters.

The Vaishnava culture was dominant in Dhanyakuria in its early days and the huge rasmancha is evidence of this.

Dhanyakuria’s Heritage Under Threat If you’re still wowed by the grand castles and mansions of Dhanyakuria, here’s the sobering reality – the heritage of this once unique and magnificent village is under threat from local land developers.

Ever since the orphanage housed in Gaine Castle shut down, locals have been worried that the building itself may be pulled down and taken over by land sharks. The authorities have denied this but that has not allayed fears.

The other challenge is conserving these magnificent mansions and other structures. They are begging to be repaired, restored and protected but there is no move in this direction.

Nine Pinnacled Rasmancha

So, visit this fairy land while it can still cast a spell. It is a refreshing day tour from Kolkata, especially during Durga Puja, when these splendid estates celebrate the festival and the silent hamlet comes alive. But do hurry, magic spells don’t last forever!

Contact Image credits: Amitabha Gupta / Live History India Story credit: Amitabha Gupta / Live History India About LHI: www.livehistoryindia. com is first of its kind digital platform, that aims to help Indians and India lovers rediscover Indian history, and revive and restore India’s tangible and intangible heritage.