CHENNAI’S LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE
December ’10
Volume 2 | Issue 8
Its
Soup and Salad time! An epicurean’s Journey
Pamper me pretty A tryst with some of the finest spas in the city
The movies that went by Readers pick the best flicks of 2010 Greying hair and Botox
Midlife crisis
I don’t like to be labeled as the “Gay Comedian”
Vidur Kapur
Now At Express Avenue
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Autumn/Winter ‘10 Ispahani Centre, 123/124, Nungambakkam High Road, Chennai 600 034. Tel No: 044-2833 0833/34 | E-mail: rituchennai@ritukumar.com www.ritukumar.com
Volume 2 | Issue 8 | December ‘10
Letter Editor-in-Chief’s
LENIN PAUL FOUNDER
VIJETHA RANGABASHYAM EDITOR IN CHIEF
KARTHIK.R CREATIVE AND DESIGN HEAD
NANDITA THOMAS MARKETING HEAD
LEKHAMITHRA SHANMUGAM MANAGER - SALES
JERALD W. ADMIN
LAVANYA KANNAN PHOTOGRAPHY
MEDHA RAO, APARNA GANESH, AMRITA SAMANTH, NIHARIKA M, LAKSHMI SHARATH, RENIE RAVIN COLUMNISTS
SRIKALS GRAPHICS PVT LIMITED, CHENNAI PHONE: 044 2225 3092-94 PRINTING
EMAIL: marketing@thetaximag.com URL: www.thetaximag.com PHONE: 044 4308 4448
Midlife crisis, what?! what crisis?, some might ask. Among all the other alien concepts that have ostensibly trickled down from the West to India, midlife crisis is definitely a brand new one or should I say a hidden old one? A good family friend of my parents’ visited us the other day for dinner. There was a ponytail sprouting from his head and I asked him what was up with the new hairdo. If he had said “fashion” or something along those lines, this topic would’ve barely figured in this month’s issue of Taxi. He said “Midlife crisis. Can’t flirt with an old flame on Facebook but this is harmless right?” he laughed. I laughed too, not because it was funny but in a more “here we go again, another psychosomatic, American television spinoff, manifestation.” But later in the day, I gave it a thought. I’ve been hearing this term “midlife” crisis very often in conversations in the recent past. As much as we’d like to blame the West as it is almost a reflex for us to do so, when anything remotely outlandish creeps into our culture, I wasn’t able to completely negate the possibility. And then I read up on this period of “dramatic self-doubt” that ideally catches up in the middle years of one’s life or even earlier in some cases. What if some people were genuinely going through this condition while not having a clue that such a condition actually exists? We’ve seen dads who splurge their money on things that are barely necessary. We’ve seen mothers getting makeovers. We’ve heard of adulteries, depressions, anxiety attacks and what not? Are we being over analytical in blaming all these occurrences on one condition? May be. But are we repudiating an entire condition, as oversimplifying life is an easier way out? Definitely. Whatever the case may be, I’d like to state the cliché here; life isn’t a bed of roses. Most kids go through a sense of existential crisis when they hit puberty. Pre adulthood is another phase of self-doubt and dilemma. And midlife crisis is a stage of life that urges you to question the purpose of life et al. The point I would like to make here is to not look at them as a state of illness but to cope with them in a healthy way. On that note, the team and I wish you a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!
FOR ADVERTISING
IRON QUILL PUBLISHING SERVICES
Vijetha Rangabashyam
PRODUCTION
Editor in Chief
4 TAXI December 2010
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR CAN BE SENT TO vijetha@thetaximag.com The best feedback/opinion will be featured in our forthcoming issue.
www.thetaximag.com
08
14
38
48
Contents Personality Interview: Vidur Kapur
8 20
Shopper’s Guide to Galaxy! Top New year Destinations
24
Sometimes less, sometimes more: See-sawing Life
28
Spa Magic
34
2010 Blockbusters
38
An Epicurean’s Journey: Soup & Salad Cafe
42
Stressattack
46
Junk in the Trunk
Gadgets
50
COVER: Photography: Sunder Ramu Model: Marianela Jazmin Stylist: Shilpa Sri Hair: Toni & Guy Makeup: Page 3 Wardrobe: Nazia Syed Model courtesy: Toabh Models
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December 2010 TAXI 7
Standup comedy is about individual freedom of speech and self-expression Some fight it with passion, some with might. And of course there are some others who do it with rationality. It is not every day that you see a fight put up with the much needed and often envied quality of humour. Intelligent and witty, there’s certainly more to Vidur Kapur’s perspectives than just that. - Niharika M 8 TAXI December 2010
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1. You seem to be defying a lot of stereotypes- in terms of sexuality, racial typecast and career choices. Does being a comedian help ease the strain of doing that? Being a comedian helps ease the strain of many things! Laughter and humor ease tension in all circumstances and that’s how we comics get away with being outrageous with defiant social commentaries. Comedy is generally about all the things you want to say but cannot say in daily life. That being said, comedy is never easy and there is always stress, strain and angst in figuring out how to get to the audience! 2. Could the emergence of standup comedy as a form of entertainment help in changing attitudes, especially in Asia? According to me, standup comedy has already become a medium that is changing attitudes in Asia and particularly India. With a large percentage of India’s population under the age of 25, it is no surprise that attitudes are changing. Focus has shifted to the individual and standup comedy is about individual freedom of speech and self-expression. So as society becomes more individualistic, it is going to reflect in entertainment and in turn entertainment will influence what’s happening in the society. 3. Do you think sexuality could be a double edged sword? Being open does help others come out of the closet but on the other hand it could undermine your primary role as a performer. There aren’t many articles that go without the mention of your orientation; that looks to be the preferred focus and subsequently the rest. I don’t know if that’s the preferred focus. I think in India because sexuality and sexual orientation is such a big deal, the journalists focus on that! Quite honestly it gets boring after a while. I’m like, come on cant you ask me a more original question? I’m tired of answering the same question over and over again.”How do Indian audiences respond to your humor about you being gay?” I am a comedian and a performer first and foremost and I happen to be gay. Why is it that Russell Peters doesn’t get asked about being “straight”? I understand that it’s also because I do talk about it and I talk about it because it needs to be talked about as in India it is an issue that is not discussed. I still don’t want to be labeled as a “Gay Comedian”. I’m lucky though because my audiences are mainstream and primarily “straight” audiences all over the world. Being “out” can undermine your career as a performer and an actor and that is why so many of the Bollywood stars are closeted. It is an individual and a personal decision you have to make as a performer. For me the choice was clear cut, there is no point of me doing standup comedy which is about freedom of speech and remaining closeted while doing it. And as far as the repercussions are concerned, it may have closed some doors for me, but I am fortunate to have a very satisfying career that is growing. 4. What is your take on the Indian standard of standup comedy? Having trickled in here from the west, has it maintained its niche in this background? The Indian standard of standup comedy is still developing. I don’t really think there is a standard yet! How many Indian standup comics do we have? Still a very few who are worth talking about. The standard will develop as more and more comedians emerge with diverse voices and become integrated into the entertainment industry. Standup comedians need to start getting integrated into mainstream entertainment, in movies, in television sitcoms and becoming part of the contemporary culture of the country before we can really claim to have any kind of standard. So standup comedy is still very nascent in India. We are still a culture that is just learning to laugh!
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December 2010 TAXI 9
5. The flipside of being an entertainer, Asian, Gay and an immigrant to a predominantly white first world country? The flipside is of course that there is a lot of discrimination out there. The comedy industry is notoriously sexist, homophobic and racist. That being said I wouldn’t have chosen to do standup comedy if I was someone who gets intimidated easily or is afraid of taking a risk. There is always a flipside when you are treading a new turf and you are the first to be doing something in your field.
6. Your performances are themed based on personal experiences. Is that your preferred style? Yes, that is my preferred style. I like finding comedy in my personal experiences. I’ve been lucky to live a life full of diverse, rich and colorful experiences, a lot of which are ripe for comedy. 7. If you had to diversify into a whole different spectrum, what would you pick? I’m not sure what you mean by “diversify into a whole different spectrum”? If that’s a fancy way of asking me what I would do if I wasn’t a comedian. I would be an actor as I am also trained as an actor and am pursuing acting opportunities. Other than that I also love to cook and am a total fashionista. 8. After a rather traumatic childhood and trysts with near suicides, it must have taken a lot of introspection to adopt humour as a medium of expression. Would you call it 10 TAXI December 2010
maturity, a powerful escape or perhaps a bit of both? Yes it took a lot of introspection and a lot of therapy sessions. I wouldn’t call it a “powerful escape” but I would call it “empowerment”. It’s about understanding who you are and not being afraid to use that. Humor is therapeutic but to be able to laugh at painful experiences you have to have dealt with the pain. So it’s really embracing as opposed to escaping. The other thing is that most people’s lives are full of painful experiences whether they are gay or straight, so sharing these experiences through humor helps people to find the humor in their painful experiences. 9. Being a full time entertainer means undoubtedly a fair bit of instability, criticism, risks of offending communities and possibly a short career span. How would you deal with these and simultaneously exploit all the hoopla that it offers? It’s not going to be a short career
span as I am going to be doing this till the day I DIE! As Joan Rivers says, “If you have to resuscitate me to bring me back to life unless I’m able to do an hour of standup.” That’s how I intend to be. Instability, criticism, and risks of offending are just a part of the game and I wouldn’t have chosen to do standup comedy if I was afraid of that. How I deal with that is telling the critics to go fly a kite! As far as exploiting the hoopla that it offers I don’t think I have any issue with that and as you can probably tell I have no issue with being in the limelight! 10. After living through all the identity crisis and shifts and changes and finally acceptance, today, how do you really see yourself? I see myself as someone who has learnt to be passionate and to enjoy life and have fun! I believe that you create your own circumstances in life and I certainly am doing that. I have decided to call the shots in my own life rather than allowing someone else to do that for me. www.thetaximag.com
Enjoy the aroma of 50 international varieties of coffee finely blended with traditional wood fire pizzas.
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Mark your dates Wine and Dine SIZZLING FUNDAE FESTIVAL, CREAM CENTRE, UP TO DECEMBER 2
Cream Centre presents a mouthwatering dessert festival featuring unique desserts like sticky fudge fundae, Belgian waffle fruit salads, apple crumbles and more. CHRISTMAS DAY CELEBRATION, ASIANA HOTELS, DECEMBER 25
Theater and Art CENTRAL MUSIC FESTIVAL, MUSEUM THEATRE, DECEMBER 8
It’s Christmas Time! presents, tasty food, Santa and music! Unwind Center brings to you the Central Festival 2010! A contemporary Christmas special! Listen to some of Chennai’s best musicians perform the greatest Christmas numbers. Subject to Change, Soulsonic and Octet Cantabile will be accompanied by the students of Unwind’s Vocal Training Program.
Shopping THE VIMONISHA PRIVATE COLLECTION – MEGA STYLE SOUK AT TAJ COROMANDEL, DECEMBER 10 TO 11 This is the only exhibition that assimilates a range of designers in pret wear, jewellery, handbags & accessories and showcases their products. The exhibition invites boutique & lifestyle store owners, wholesalers, export houses from South India to generate trade enquiries for you apart from the retail sale.
CHENNAI INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL, SOUTH INDIAN FILM CHAMBER THEATRE, DECEMBER 15 TO 23
RAHUL REDDY COLLECTION AT COLLAGE, UP TO DECEMBER 15 Designer Rahul Reddy’s autumnwinter collection is currently on display at Collage, Chennai.
Enjoy the festive buffet brunch with a complimentary glass of sparkling wine at Asiana for Rs1199 only. 12 TAXI December 2010
The 8th Chennai International Film Festivalwill screen award winning films from several countries. Stalwarts from the film fraternity, including, big directors, cinematographers and other cine technicians will attend the festival.
VIVEKNARANG AT AMETHYST, DECEMBER 22 – 29 Amethyst presents VivekNarang, one of India’s premium designers this December. The clothes on display will range from contemporary to ethnic Indian wear. www.thetaximag.com
Marianela Jazmin Wardrobe: Kimaya Earrings: Nazia Syed Footware: Raffinee 14 TAXI December 2010
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Me: Someone who loves her life and family a lot My Family: Constitutes important part of my life
an
My Childhood: The happiest days of my life My Idols: Gisele Bundchen and Natalia Vodianova. Both of them are supermodels I’m proud of: Being sensitive towards people in general
Wardrobe: Ritukumar Necklace & Earrings: Etalage Footware: Raffinee www.thetaximag.com
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India: Magic! First time in showbiz: I was 17 and I auditioned for an elite makeup company in Spain. I got through my first audition! I’m lucky because: I don’t believe in luck. You are what you are because of your actions and not luck Mumbai: Don’t get me started! Chennai: Different and refreshing
Wardrobe: Theory Earrings: Etalage
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My workout regime: Yoga is the key! In my iPod: A lot of jazz, blues and rock In my bag: You will find my Blackberry, a bottle of water, my makeup kit and a camera; a few things that every other woman would carry with her Money: Something that is necessary for survival and nothing beyond that
Wardrobe & Pearl Ornament: Etalage
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Shopper’s
Guide to
Galaxy! - Medha Rao
The end of a year – a time when shopaholics can go on a guilt-free rampage and the time when the upbeat festive mood brings out the latent urge to shop in most others! It’s a gala out there and everyone is spoilt for choice. We at Taxi break it down to the brass tacks and tell you the best you can get your hands on this season.
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November and December can be classified as being the pinkest months of the year. Pink in terms of the colour that comes into your cheeks thanks to the cold (or a deep pink blush on your cheeks in tropical countries like ours!), happiness – think end of year bonuses, vacations with loved ones and retail therapy, and health; the decadent food, wine and desserts accompanied by toasts to a long and a well-lived life! It is no wonder then that a recent s u r v e y showed that November and December qualified as being the Happiest Months in a Year! With good food, bonuses and the cold comes indulgence – Mae West summarised this glorious season of lights, gifts, puddings, carols and togetherness perfectly when she said, ‘Too much of a good thing can be wonderful’! The urge to splurge is unavoidable and well deserved, more so during this time of the year. It’s gifting season and the sky is the limit for how creative and different you can be from the crowd. In terms of self-indulgence too, it pays to be thoughtful and dig out those cracker deals to get yourself the best you can buy. We have made this season’s shopping wish list simple - we have broken it down www.thetaximag.com
into various categories so you can scout around for what suits your needs best so go on, take a look and get shopping! HOME PRETTY HOME Diwali, Christmas, New Year’s Eve apart, almost every weekend is a reason to socialise and celebrate with family, friends and loved ones this season. Entertaining guests at home has always been a wondrous gesture and the trend
and consoles if you choose to go with the traditional. Hop into Home Centre and @Home for dried flowers – they stock a wide variety in almost all colours and they can even be stocked away to be reused at a later date. Naturally Auroville is a one-stop-shop for paper lampshades – the warm yellow light from these adds a glow unmatched by any other; this store also has uniquely scented candles (think opium, patchouli and ocean) and pot pourri that keep your house sweet smelling. As for furniture, head to Good Earth – quirky and like none other, this store is for those looking to have any one-of-a-kind possession! WISE GADGET GEEK
remains unchanged. If you are looking to do up your pad, options are aplenty. Origami lampshades, dried floral arrangements and eco-friendly furniture seem to be the rage this season if you are the contemporary, minimalist kind; deep rich plums, reds, velvets and ornate, intricate dining tables
If there is one season to buy electronics, it has to be this one. Famed for discounts and great combo deals, all major stores gear up and put up their best show for you to buy! Capture those priceless moments on DSLR cameras that are currently the rage – head to E-Zone or Camera Citi and get great offers on addons like lenses and tripod stands. Notebooks are huge this season – cash in on these smallies and carry your world wherever you go – Sony, HP, Dell, Acer, Compaq and so much more – these are an absolute treat and this is the time December 2010 TAXI 21
to pick up one of these. Head to the company showrooms and grab one before it is too late! For home electronics like microwaves, ovens, grills, refrigerators and televisions, head to Croma. These megastores have it all under one roof with discounts, combos and irresistible interest free EMI offers too. DOLL UP, DRESS UP! What’s a festive season without looking your best?! Go the whole nine yards shoppers, it’s time to pamper yourselves! With the winter collections that almost all stores have recently launched, it’s time to look your finest. Express Avenue is haven for picking up clothes – men can head to Zodiac, Van Heusen or Blackberrys for their formal needs; there are bound to be a couple of occasions that demand suiting up! As for
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the ladies, there’s never a dearth of stores you can head to. Forever New, French Connection, Esprit and Wills Lifestyle offer a great range of winter wear – tweed shrugs, lace dresses, satin tops and so much more for all those wintry, formal evenings out. Lifestyle, Maxx and Shopper’s Stop offer a wide range of men’s women’s and kid’s wear in almost every imaginable variety. Accessorise this season with cuff links, watches and jewellery from Swarovski – bling, classy and eye catching; these pieces are sure to spark conversation! Also check out earrings from Paris Bijoux and Estelle – the faux pearls and diamante baguettes are worth possessing. Also, check out Casablanca at Ispahani Centre for funky hair accessories, footwear and stoles and scarves.
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Advertiser’s Feature
P
avers England, the only brand that combines comfort and style presents the Platinum Collection for men. The collection brings out the element of fashion and is sure to delight every individual looking for that perfect finishing touch. These elegantly outlined premium shoes in shades of tan, brown and black are the best option to put one’s foot forward. The Platinum collection offers better weight distribution, combined with improved geometry and pure functionality with unmistakably clean design. It befits a man who wants an extra edge over every other. The Platinum Collection is priced from ` 5499/- to ` 7999/-
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Autumn Winter. The AW10 Collection draws its inspiration from bohemian chic. This collection comprises key accessories that will pin down autumn/winter trends and earn their place for keeps in your wardrobe. Red, Black and bronze dominate the ladies bag collection to give your wardrobe a new season spin. Buckle, twist and knot - cinch your waist with a skinny belt to add a smart-grown up touch to your AW look. The range of belts is peppered with metallic studded and leather knitted slim and fashionable belts. Pavers ‘walk in comfort’ adds a range of socks and belts for men to style their look more fashionably this season.
Pavers England has also introduced a glamorous range of accessories for men and women across their stores for the first time this
The belts collection for men and women are available at a price range from ` 999/- to ` 5999/; bags from ` 3999/- to ` 4999/- and socks from ` 699/- to ` 749/-.
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TOP
20 11
New year Destinations
- Lakshmi Sharath
It is that time of the year to plan a holiday and ring in the New Year from a different destination. If you are looking for some colour, energy and vigour, then head to the shores of the big cities. But if nature allures you, then lose yourself in the mountains or forests. There is something special about the moment when a year is born, so do savour it. Here are some destinations that will holistically satisfy you in terms of offering you the best New Year experience ever!
New York City w? If you are dreaming deny the romance of the sno can o wh t bu , life r you of nt tire city celebrates It may be the coldest mome to this vibrant city. The en ad he n the r, Yea w Ne ffy a soft flu l drop and the of a white Christmas and ion of sorts. The famous bal dit tra a t bu , on ati ebr cel a m all is not just ns of revelers who come fro in style in Times Square. It ng are thronged by millio rni mo the rks of wo urs fire ho ere e wh we Brooklyn parties that rock on till n head to Central park or to the p, dro l bal the cy fan t over the world. If you do no you through the night. and performances dazzle
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Singapore
try of Singapore. You ad to the island coun he en Th ? me ho to performances l destination closer r in the New Year with he us to e lik Fancy an internationa d ul wo u if yo just walk nade and Marina Bay ay in Sentosa Island or aw rty Pa g. in should go to the Espla rat leb a ll be ce of the morning. Take pocket of Singapore wi ay into the wee hours aw and fireworks. Every e nc da d an ay Qu or head to Clarke around Orchard Road and live it up in style. cruise down the river
This is where m ysticism and mer riment go hand that. And it is al in hand. Bali is so the party hub beautiful – ther of Asia. The beache away or you coul e is no doubt ab s will be lit by da out d opt for a roman zzling fireworks tic dinner in one some of the inte as yo u of ca th n pa em rior villages in Ba rty . If you like som e quiet and mys li or visit some of of adventure an ticism go to the temples here d you could try an . Maybe you wou y of the water sp yourself in the vi ld prefer a dash orts here or head brant atmospher to the night club e. s in Kuta and lose
Bali
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December 2010 TAXI 25
GOA
st favourite place to than Goa. The world’s mo r the fur no k loo n the , at home is a party in r during New Year. There If you are looking to party ou col t en fer dif tire en an to beaches wear ry on the Mandovi or head ring in the New Year, Goa’s and South Goa. Try the fer rth No en we bet ose cho every beach and you can n Goa is the place. m. If you want to party, the the floating casino at Panji
KERALA What could be a better place to bring in the New Year than God’s own country ? Soak in the beauty of the place or just curl up inside a houseboa t and float along with time as another year is born. The backwaters can be a great alternative if you prefer some quiet and privacy during this mom ent. Drive up from Thiruvananthapuram to Kanyakum ari to watch the sunrise as the New Year daw ns.
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The possibilities are endless...
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Sometimes less, sometimes more:
See-
. e f i L g n i w a s - Niharika M
T
he model of the one off spinster with her nine cats and strangely spiked hair was often depicted as an image of the outcome of non-conformity; a break from usual social beliefs, leading to a promiscuous lonely and depressing middle age that confronted emptiness. The existential dilemmas and crises of human conditions and experiences have often received far flung and rather abstract expressions in art, literature and other divisions of high culture. It was only a matter of time though, before it trickled down to the silent realities of a generation and moved gradually to the present that is faced with the phenomena of information overload and obsession with phrasing multiple experiences from early teenage. It is this excessiveness that now contributes to a crisis situation, perhaps at more roads than merely at middle age. Midlife crisis is one of those terms that has attempted to define the experience of the Generation X. Whether or not it is inclusive, realistic or authentic is very debatable but studies do show an increasing tendency of people to experience this crisis- in middle age or even earlier. Most of the actual study of psychology deals with later life meltdowns, ego formation and identity crisis of adolescence and the personality building in the formative years. However, there is very little to understand midlife and its constituent elements. Therefore, this term came into existence much later in comparison. The fact remains though that despite all studies, research and empirical evidence, much like anything else the experience itself is highly personal and wide ranging. A few months back, when my sister celebrated her 30th birthday, a lot of welcomes, vexing and taunting followed as she boasted of expensive birthday gifts and exquisite celebration from a very loving husband. The thirties club was apparently both a privilege and a loss and this seed of knowledge was passed on by the “much loved� adults
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December 2010 TAXI 29
in the family. But I wondered why in the prime of her life, with all the material and emotional luxuries (read stability) there was even a question of loss. Maybe there is too much of the intangible freedom that comes and stays through the twenties and entry into the thirties signifies an unfair looting of all that was appealing to senses. To complement why being older can be better, though, we already have the idea of a quarter life crisis evolving. Competition, insecurity, social apathy- et al! Usually following the period post adolescence, which is already stage wrought with confusion and angst, it seems like life in this century is showing rather bleak hopes of being beautiful. These feelings are a convergence of many internal and external factors. Time has been a fluid source for analysis. History and our consciousness intermingle in unique and one is almost never devoid of the other. We tend to look to the past with a sense of nostalgia, a brimming value of simplicity associated with earlier decades and reiterated through the bedtime stories of grandpa’s and grandma’s. I believe that what is unknown is always placed a step higher than what is. Childhoods in the post-independence era were as utopic as it could get, hardly symbolic of the struggle and the turmoil that preceded it. Overthrowing colonialism was a celebrated victory but there was little inkling if the deadlier imperialism that was to follow years later. Revolutionary movements wielded the literature from the west in the sixties and seventies; most of them calling for radical changes to overthrow years of suppression. This is particularly relevant to the Women’s Movements where they emerged into the public sphere and tried to shriek of the redundancy of mid years with burden of family, marriage and intellectual suffocation. Thanks to the power of Western media, many of those became hot topics of discussion among the Eastern elite and obviously from detached discussions, they moved to gripping introspection. Some of them may have felt a resonance in their own life and perhaps some didn’t. But, this signified the entry of a Western experience into the walls of conservative Indian homes. And somewhere, this knowledge from a non assessing way of life to a realistic retrospection did start to make a difference.
realities as compared to the current. High exposure to the Internet and other forms of media at an impressionable age or most likely lesser, is leading to what is commonly
I’m not the pollengrain I used to be.
With progress and advancement come more questions and the impact of this is complex, psychologically speaking. Much of media material contributes to this complexity. We have homemakers sitting addicted to American television dramas like Sex and the City, Desperate Housewives etc, which show implications of the American way of life. And in some ways it seems idealistic without pot bellies, greying heads and wrinkled skin textures. It brings glamour to the idea of middle age but not necessarily escaping the essential negatives of it. SRK in Kabhie Alvida Na Kehna gave us an insight into what midlife could possibly feel like. It was probably for the first time that he played a realistic, troubled and hopeless hero. But bringing such experiences to mainstream cinema and trying to get the audience closer are a welcome change and a mark of media being intertwined with real lives. Looking at it from a personal angle, the generation that is now in the prime of their life has been less exposed to 30 TAXI December 2010
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called deprivation of innocence. It is quite disturbing to anticipate how the current generation will handle their midlife as profiles on Social Networking sites. Most articles will tell you the likely causes of a mid life crisis. Children moving out of homes, a feeling of non achievement
e It’s a long tim od since childho
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after years of hard work, sexual disinterest or burning point are the potent reasons. There are also (thankfully) pieces that highlight stories of a happy middle age nearing self actualisation and where all the responsibilities have been successfully completed. But ironically, with late marriages, divorces and single parenting, a mid \life crisis may happen due to completely different reasons, if not earlier, not to forget that the concept of family is losing foothold and we are tending towards an isolated, individuated society. While statistics do support the fact that there is less of such an experience in the more conservative Eastern countries I would say that whether or not one is hit by this crisis is dependent on the personality, perspective and past experiences. There is definitely the potential to feel things slipping out of control and the ground beneath collapsing at any stage of life. The whole idea of why this crisis arises is highly complex and to think of it is more taxing than experiencing it. A sense of meaninglessness is more possible when there has been the experience of a relative high before, since the monotony of routine life then fades in comparison. It is contradictory in nature and either can lead to a breakdown- too much of it or too less of it. Today, I sense the impending coming of mine and I know that as more are exposed to this idea, the more are the chances of experiencing it. Sometimes the term is used loosely and stands for any sort of personal upheaval. Dread, anxiety, fear, loss and insecurity form an inescapable part of 21st century life experience and sooner or later, this realisation is bound to hit everybody. With more knowledge and more dramatic experiences, the sooner it is likely to hit. In the end, it serves testimony to a life well challenged and understood. December 2010 TAXI 31
SP A MAGIC
- Amrita Samanth
Sometimes the cure for restlessness is res
t.
- Colle en Wainwright We, at Taxi, decided to explore some of the real experiences offered by the spas that let you leave feeling better than when you arrived. Feat uring the signature treatments from leading spas, it’s now time to indulge in some extravagant and luxurious body bliss and spoil yourselves silly!
Face glam at Page 3
O
riginated solely with the intention of improving cosmetic appearance, facials, today, are at a tangent as they are combined with relaxation techniques to improve overall health of the skin. For a signature facial treatment, we chose Page 3 Salon known for their exclusive skin treatments featuring Keraskin products from L’Oreal International. Their unique approach to facial treatment allows them to provide an experience that is prescribed exclusively for you. The therapist starts with an analysis of your skin’s unique requirements and then suggests the most beneficial facial to restore you to your radiant best. After settling on what is called the Glow Floral Therapy, a specialized one created to restore the radiance and glow of your skin, the blissful session began. I gave myself up into the friendly Kerafacialist’s hands that started my facial with the application of a cleanser and toner. This was followed by a long, languorous and really soothing Olive scrub massage which had only a hint of its fragrance. On re-activating the blood circulation, the floral peel, which contains mild flower acids from hibiscus flowers, was applied. This was accompanied by a divine back and hand rub that leaves you asking for more. At the end of this hour long elaborate ritual, Immuniste anti-ageing serum is applied to the skin leaving it feeling absolutely reborn!
PERKS: Created with the goodness of nature, this facial hydrates your skin like never before, resulting in a beautiful and radiant glow from deep within. 34 TAXI December 2010
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Treat for your tresses at Toni & Guy
H
air, one of your most pampered assets, is the essence of any classic hair-do. And for this, one needs to treat it well. What better place for healthy hair strategies than the most powerful hairdressing brand in the world, Toni & Guy. As I entered this refined environment with exquisite hair styling products on display all around me, I was reassured on seeing a top stylist ready to consult me for my Hair Spa treatment. After diagnosing my hair for a minute and interrogating me on personal hair care, my stylist drew up a detailed nourishment programme best suited for my hair type.
The “Hydration” treatment began with a hair wash and a light massage. All products used in this treatment are from System Professional, a new premium hair care range from Wella Professionals, exclusively personalized to the clients’ individual needs. The next step, a mixture of the ‘Moist dry hair’ treatment mask and System Professional’s exclusively formulated infusions that compliment the treatment mask was made and applied to the roots and hair. This was followed by a long and gentle head and neck massage. A ten-minute steam was given right after to help the cream penetrate into the scalp. The hair spa treatment came to an end with a light rinse and ‘cold-drying’ hair to retain its moisture. PERKS: Apart from strengthening the hair follicles, nourishing the roots and revitalizing your scalp, the treatment works like silken fingers that work their magic on the roots of your hair.
Fish feet at Kenko
W
e always take our feet for granted. Most of the time they are seen as tools to get us wherever we need to go. But suddenly, after a long period when our feet have to be exposed, we remember we should have taken good care of them all year long. Going the natural way, we explored the Fish Pedicure at Kenko, a reflexology and fish spa which is the latest addition to the city’s spas.
The spa is a haven of peace and tranquility that invites you to relax almost instantaneously. As nervous as I was to let little fish gnaw at my feet, I was assured that these little fish, called Garra rufa fish (also popularly known as Doctor Fish) imported for pedicures specifically, do not bite. I was told that these fish gently gnaw into the dead skin and clear away the unwanted top layer of the soles of the feet. So before I could get started, a certain enzyme was sprayed on my feet to attract the fish. As soon as I dipped my feet in the fish tank, I saw them all charging towards me and began nibbling at my feet, which surprisingly left me tickled. I avoided looking at them devour into my dead skin cells only to feel multiple tingling sensations at the same time. These fish can wonderfully work on calluses and other tough growth on the feet. They just nibble into them and soften the feet. The fish pedicure is also complimented with a ten-minute shoulder massage. PERKS: Fish pedicures give your feet a fresh, soft and supple look naturally and keep various foot conditions at bay. www.thetaximag.com
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Therapeutic touch at Isha Life
F
rom the early days where European cave paintings depicted what seems to be like the medical use of therapeutic touch, till date where massage has developed and taken several forms, today there are around 70 methods of massage therapy that have evolved with influences from around the world. With stress playing a large role in the quality of our lives, experts suggest that one of the best ways to cope with it is a relaxing massage, and that is precisely what we did. Isha Life, a premium fitness brand, provides a gamut of fitness services that includes a spa, branded Shambhavi. Their extensive menu of services left me perplexed. Going by their recommendation, I had decided to try out their Swedish massage. Accompanied by their certified masseuse, I was asked to choose from their own brand of organic aroma oils. Deciding on Lemongrass oil, I decided to unwind and let my masseuse rid me off my aches. Swedish massages are considered the best for their smooth, gliding strokes called effleurage and other moves such as kneading, stretching and tapping. A blissful hour full of firm but gentle pressure applications, this massage focuses on each body part working its way up. A head and facial massage brings this heavenly treatment to an end. PERKS: The main purpose of this massage is to increase the oxygen flow in the blood and release toxins from the muscles. It also stretches your ligaments and tendons keeping them supple and pliable. Bringing you to de-stress mode, this treatment is sure to make you snooze right after.
O
Nail trail at Influence Spa
ur final stop was to treat our fingernails to some royalty. And the apt place to do the same is Influence Spa. Redeemed as a top spa in the city for their impeccable services, I was asked to choose the manicure service of my choice. Having done that, I was seated on a big, plush recliner seat with my hands dipped in luke-warm water-filled bowls on either side. The state-of-the-art equipment becomes more pronounced when my recliner was converted into a massage chair by the click of a button. Sitting back, I closed my eyes and let my mind drift with the instrumental Balinese music playing softly. The manicure started with softening my hands in warm water containing salt and shampoo. A cuticle cream was applied to moisten the nails for removing dead cells. Using a scrub, I was given a 10 minute hand massage followed by a cream pack. The last step included moisturizing my hands and touching up my nails with a French manicure. PERKS: Influence’s signature manicure keeps your nails looking healthy and strong while making your hands look aesthetically attractive.
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s k c i p S R E T S U B K C BLO
we took a well to 2010, re fa g in d id b aders e n us. As we ar rvey and our re o su up a y k o ad o it re al ax new year is Well, we at T ve, but a brand ollywood offer us in 2010? ie el b to rd ha em. H kbusters! It may be to 2011’s bloc at impact on th t by: what did in re en e g w iv a d at d to th ha r y at ea ad , and get re look at the y something th me resolutions ing movies, as so w e llo ak fo m e , ly th b d vote the bub look at it, pop As you have a
DUE DATE A Movie that made us laugh all the way
The Hangover director, Todd Phillips, brought us yet another raucous, formulaic comedy, but this time with an improvisational feel and a two-time academy award nominated actor. Due Date tracks the four-day journey of Peter Highman (Robert Downey Jr.), a stress induced rage filled businessman, as he attempts to make his way home for the birth of his first child. After being forcefully ejected from an aircraft due to an argument over the use of the words “bomb” and “terrorist” on planes, he is left with no other choice but to embark on a cross-country road trip with the very man responsible for said removal, Ethan Tremblay (Zack Galifianakis). Due Date packed a double handful of laughs as the two unlikely companions wrestle their way through the obstacles thrown in their path. In particular, the scenes in which Downey attempts to reason, or even have a somewhat logical conversation with the ditzy-yet-lovable Galifianakis, were downright hilarious. Reminiscent of John Hughes’ Planes Trains and Automobiles, Due Date was definitely a laugh-out-loud film with a few unexpected twists and turns. 38 TAXI December 2010
IRON MAN 2 Action all the way Let’s get the big question out of the way: Was Iron Man 2 better than the first film? Not quite.But isn’t that the case with almost all sequels? It was a pleasure to see Robert Downey Jr. back in the role, and everyone involved did an excellent job. Gwyneth Paltrow’s role was expandedand director Favreau put himself into the film a lot more than in the previous one (and he was quite enjoyable and funny when he appeared). Don Cheadle as Rhodey was a lot more appealing as he struck us as more of a military type than Terrence Howard. The chemistry between Cheadle and Downey Jr. was smooth as well. Sam Rockwell was great, if a bit over the top in the goofiness category, but by the end of the film, you see he’s not a man to be trifled with. Mickey Rourkeundoubtedly took the movie to the next level. The action sequences surpassed the first film in quantity, quality and length. Iron Man 2 — not as golden as Robert Downey Jr.’s first flight in the suit, but steel clad nonetheless — continued the push to create a dynamic Marvel movie culture. www.thetaximag.com
Stoickfirst took to the screen, we were dying to hear Blessed’s booming tones. Instead, DreamWorks went with Gerard Butler, who did a great job too.
Inception What a concept?!
With “Inception”, Nolan brought a rare fresh concept aboard the rickety dream-boat. The story chronicles the adventures of a freelance team of experts specially trained to invade the sleeping minds of others (when valuable secrets are most vulnerable), and steal valuable ideas or information. Corporate espionage at its stealthiest. Despite being a seemingly cold and sometimes sluggish or oppressive experience, “Inception” was, at its core, a work of great heart. At the end of two and a half hours of intricate pursuits and exposition overload, we were emotionally overwhelmed. This should be no surprise, as Nolan had chosen to explore some of cinema’s most enduring malecentric themes: A man’s identity within his own family, and the father/son relationship (played out in Cillian Murphy’s character’s subplot). This film, with its debatable meanings and ever-peppered nuances, was almost the very definition of a movie that demanded multiple viewings. We are still processing this one, and its expert blend of Kubrickian aloofness and deeply lurking humanity, which left us all awestruck.
How to train your dragon Raptured by Animation If ever a film was crying out for Brian Blessed, then surely How To Train Your Dragon was it. DreamWorks’ animated opus was packed with beefy, hairy Vikings, and when the key character of www.thetaximag.com
DreamWorks’ Animation on form is capable of brilliant work. And under the stewardship of directors Chris Sanders and Dean DeBlois (the pair who made Disney’s Liloand Stitch), this film has firmly demonstrated that not only do their films look stunning (and this one really, really does), but they really can deliver very good family entertainment. The bottom line with How to Train Your Dragon is that it’s served up a coherent, exciting and engaging three-act blockbuster, whose missteps are easily papered over by some wonderful action sequences.
Date Night Reminiscing Romance
Date Night was a testament to the comic timing and delivery of Steve Carell and Tina Fey. On the page, their characters weren’t that interesting and their circumstances weren’t very exciting, but Carell and Fey made the film come alive with their affability, dorky charm, and their gift of comedy. They transformed Date Night into a bland romcom affair into a fun screwball comedy worth seeing even if they’re playing more subdued versions of their well-known leading roles on TV’s 30 Rock and The Office. What we liked about the movie, besides the clever one-liners and funny situations, is that the romance was not about a young couple at the start of a potential relationship. We were presented with a couple well along their lives together. The fiery start to the relationship is all but gone, and nothing but a smoldering ember remains. The film gave us a couple that legitimately love each other but have forgotten how to express it. As their life has become the life of their kids, their love has become something more akin to a friendship. Watching Phil and Claire try to stoke the dying embers was a great thing to see in an age of divorce and broken homes. December 2010 TAXI 39
Alice in wonderland It wasn’t just for kids
utterly serious gusto. As for Hogwarts besties Harry Potter, Hermione Granger, and Ron Weasley, we’ve lived side by side for so long with Daniel Radcliffe, Emma Watson, and Rupert Grint that their reappearance carried honest emotional weight; we’ve known them since they were kids! Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows — Part 1 also bravely faced the future, slipping with expert ease among the thrilling mass of complications (and complicated set pieces) that Rowling throws fans in the final sprint, then guiding the faithful to the fate that awaits everyone in this world, the moment called The End.
Tim Burton’s Alice in Wonderland was a wonderfully spun tale that delved deeper into the fantasy aspect of the story than any of its predecessors. We’ve got to address Depp’s performance as the Hatter. His ability to go from a sane, focus-driven Scotsman to an over-the-top, off his rocker hatter was fantastic. He stole every scene he was in including the final massive battle scene where he shows up wearing a kilt and brandishing a giant claymore. None of us thought of the Mad Hatter as a fighting type hero character but we certainly do now. The story for Alice in Wonderland was great, and although it may have been a tad too dark and Burton-esque for children under 9, it surely impressed fans of the fairytale genre.
Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows — Part 1 A Bookworm’s Fantasy Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows — Part 1 broke the seventh and final book in J.K. Rowling’s epic modern literary classic into two movies, and haunting every frame of this assured and beautiful first half is the knowledge that soon, in 2011, the screen journey will be over.
Shutter Island Thrill, thrill, thriller
There were ten Best Picture nominees last year. Paramount got cold feet about releasing Shutter Island in the fall, instead rallying its resources behind Up in the Air, but as this film rolled into theaters a couple of weeks before the ceremony, it became clear that it would have had a decent shot for a nomination. Would it have helped the box office? No. Probably would have hurt it, actually, because there was more quality competition. And then Paramount couldn’t have put as much effort behind Up in the Air, which did need the help but didn’t win anyway. Still, Martin Scorsese’s latest is unlike most of his previous films. It lookedlike a studio movie and it moved like a great thriller from the noir era, yet underneath, there was still a screwed up psychology that has been a trademark of Scorsese’s work, certainly most of his great work. And this is as satisfying as most of the stuff he has done post Goodfellas.
All the grand British thespians who brought Rowling’s convocation of wizardly characters to life, from Alan Rickman and Imelda Staunton to Michael Gambon and Robbie Coltrane, did so with 40 TAXI December 2010
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OF HEALTH
FULL MEALS & DEATH BY CHOCOLATE Soup and Salad Cafe, a fabulous journey of food - Aparna Ganesh
H
ealthy eating. Mention the phrase and hardcore food lovers go Blecccchhh! But, contrary to popular opinion, healthy eating is not just about eating leafy, green things and going hungry most of the time. It is about eating wholesome, nourishing, tasty food that also leaves you feeling satisfied. After all we live to eat. The Soup and Salad café is a perfect combination of the tastiest food prepared in the healthiest possible way. As Bharat (one of the men behind the venture) says, “It’s all about the healthier option”. A quick lunch during office hours, a relaxed sit down dinner with family, or a comfortable tête-à-tête with friends for coffee, The Soup and Salad Café offers a wide variety of meal options to all sections of society. The best part being, you don’t even have to be health
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conscious to eat here, because all their food is beautifully classified into light, moderate, celebration or indulgence, of course with indulgence being the most sinful. The menu is standardized for all the 3 outlets and has been prepared by the creative and experienced Mr. Kaushik @Eatitude. With a 15 year background in the industry, his genius is visible in every unique dish at The Soup and Salad Café. The Café is soon to be running as a 24 hour eatery, with breakfast specials as well. We usually accept the soup to be a watered down version of whatever, to be consumed as a so called appetizer. Not so at The Soup and Salad Café. A good place to start would be The El Bandido, if you like the smoky flavour of bell peppers garnished with cheese on garlic toast. The Mexican and Spanish Gunfight, is a creamy spinach concoction with chilli flakes and nachos to add a crunch. If you have a cold or if your sinus is acting up, then the soup to have would be the KungFu Chicken. As the menu states, this soup will KungFu your sinus out the window. The SandS Special, (as
they like to call certain unique specialties on the menu) in the Non-Veg Soups is the Chicken Rasam which I am sure sounds tempting to all you meat lovers out there. The most unique soup of them all, the Cream of Newton, which is a clever play on words, is definitely a hit with the younger clientele. It is a creamy warm apple soup, garnished with a dollop of smooth vanilla ice cream and hints of cinnamon. I was in seventh heaven already.
Far from the mundane, the salad options here are plenty. The most popular one on the menu is the Famous Kamatein Salad, with corn, rajma, peanuts in a creamy low-fat mayonnaise dressing with a garnish of crisps. With high protein content, this one is a favorite with the gym crowd as well. The SandS Waldorf is a wonderfully light mix of paneer and apples in mayonnaise, garnished with walnuts and celery. Another unique salad to try would be the Kolkatta Karukkumurukku which has a tasty mix of chat masala and mustard over potatoes.
Photography: Lavanya Kannan
The Soup and Salad CafĂŠ also serves a smaller range of innovative sandwiches, out of which the Veg Manchurian Panini is a definite must. Smoothies, shakes and juices are also a part of the menu and they do have some sinful desserts prepared by their in-house bakery, Pavlovaa. The most sinful indulgence which should definitely not be missed out on, no matter how health conscious you are is the Death by Chocolate. This moist, chocolate-oozing delicacy is the best way to finish a meal here, healthy or not!
Locations: Alwarpet, Annanagar, Adyar
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STRESS a t t a c k ! T
he sporadic hysterical Monday is a fact of today’s life.
But if you’re under a prolonged stress - suffering a daily assault of stress hormones from a demanding job or a personal life in turmoil, the symptoms may not be too evident. If you experience any of the signs that follow, take some time out every day, whether it’s to go for a walk or simply turn off your phone. WEEKEND HEADACHES A sudden drop in stress can prompt migraines. Stick closely to your weekday sleeping and eating schedule to minimize other triggers. AWFUL PERIOD CRAMPS The most stressed-out women are more than twice as likely to experience painful cramps as those who are less tense, a Harvard study found. Researchers blame a stress-induced imbalance of hormones. Hitting the gym 46 TAXI December 2010
can soothe cramps and stress, by decreasing sympathetic nervous system activity. AN ACHY MOUTH A sore jaw can be a sign of teeth grinding, which usually occurs during sleep and can be worsened by stress. Ask your dentist about a nighttime mouth guard—up to 70% of people who use one reduce or stop grinding altogether. ODD DREAMS Dreams usually get progressively more positive as you sleep, so you wake up in a better mood than you were in when you went to bed. But when you’re stressed, you wake up more often, disrupting this process and allowing unpleasant imagery to recur all night. Good sleep habits can help prevent this; aim for 7 to 8 hours a night, and avoid caffeine and alcohol close to bedtime. BLEEDING GUMS Chronically elevated levels of
the stress hormone cortisol may impair the immune system and allow bacteria to invade the gums, say researchers. If you’re working long hours and eating dinner at your desk, keep a toothbrush on hand. And protect your mouth by exercising and sleeping more, which will help lower stress. OUT-OF-NOWHERE ACNE Stress increases the inflammation that leads to breakouts. Smooth your skin with a lotion containing skin sloughing salicylic acid or bacteria-busting benzoyl peroxide, plus a noncomedogenic moisturizer so your skin won’t get too dry. If your skin doesn’t respond to treatment within a few weeks, see your doctor for more potent meds. A SWEET TOOTH Don’t automatically blame your chocolate cravings on your lady hormones—stress is a more likely trigger. When Harvard researchers surveyed pre- and postmenopausal www.thetaximag.com
women, they found only a small decrease in the prevalence of chocolate cravings after menopause—smaller than could be explained by just a hormonal link.
say it’s likely that feeling anxious or tense also aggravates underlying conditions like dermatitis, eczema, and psoriasis.
ITCHY SKIN
Anxiety and stress can cause stomachaches, along with headaches, backaches, and insomnia. One study of 1,953 men and women found that those experiencing the highest levels of stress were more than three times as likely to have abdominal pain as their more-relaxed counterparts.
A recent Japanese study of more than 2,000 people found that those with chronic itch (known as pruritus) were twice as likely to be stressed out as those without the condition. Although an annoying itch problem can certainly cause stress, experts
BELLYACHES
The exact connection is still unclear, but one theory holds that the intestines and the brain share nerve pathways; when the mind reacts to stress, the intestines pick up the same signal. Because of this link, learning to manage stress with the help of a clinical psychologist, meditation, or even exercise can usually help relieve tummy trouble too. However, if you have frequent bellyaches, see your doc to rule out food allergies, lactose intolerance, irritable bowel syndrome, or an ulcer.
5 WAYS TO BOUNCE BACK
TAKE A MENTAL VACATION:
TREAT YOUR FEET:
HOMEMADE GINGER TEA:
When you need to deflate stress, treat yourself to a vacation that’s all in your head: Close your eyes and imagine a relaxing place, such as a beach, a mountain view, or a cozy room. Notice everything you can about your spot. What can you see and smell? The more vivid a picture you paint in your mind, the more your body will respond to the invitation to relax.
Here’s something nice for your feet that revitalizes your entire body: Fill one large bowl with hot water, and one with cold. Submerge your feet in the hot water for as long as you can, then switch to the cold. Repeat several times. The process draws circulation down to your feet and gets blood pumping throughout your body. It’s faster than a nap and better for you (and cheaper) than a fancy coffee drink.
Ginger — a brown, knobby root that will never win any beauty awards — is a powerful antistress tool hailed by herbalists for its ability to soothe upset stomachs, alleviate h e a d a c h e s , and reduce inflammation. Create a relaxing ritual out of making fresh ginger tea: Peel 1 inch of fresh ginger root and cut it in to thin rounds. Cover with 2-3 cups of water and boil for 10-20 minutes. Sweeten with honey for a deliciously spicy nighttime soother.
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THAT ONE THING:
SEA SALT BATH:
Chances are there’s one particular thing you’ve been avoiding because it’s unpleasant, tedious, or just plain old boring. Whether it’s calling a friend you’ve lost touch with, making a dentist’s appointment for a tooth that’s been bothering you, or taking that box in the garage to Goodwill, do “that one thing” this week. By taking care of it, you’ll be able to stop spending your energy on dreading it and start focusing on more important things.
Recover from the holidays with an easy detox: Add a cup of sea salt to a warm bath and soak. The salt draws impurities out of the skin. To make it even more rejuvenating, sprinkle a few drops of your favorite essential oil in the water and light some candles. Be sure to turn off the phone, because having to jump out of the tub and run dripping across the room is definitely not relaxing.
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Grounded, Again! The second Ground Zero event took the EDM scene in Chennai to new heights. The event was headlined by DJ Aldrin, Asia’s topmost DJ and a virtuoso behind the turntables. Aldrin’s first performance on Indian shores turned the crowd berserk. ArjunVagale of the Indian EDM gurus Jalebee Cartel also played a power packed set much to the delight of the revelers. Highly energized performances by DJ Priyanjana and DJ Manny had set the right groove for the event.
Etonite Presents ‘Five’ Etonite, a brand new entertainment company formed by three enterprising women presented “Five”, a political thriller play by novelist and playwright ShreekumarVarma. The audience enjoyed the play with some dinner and drinks at none other than Le Meridien.
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Nirvana at Kenko Kenko Spa, which is a famous wellness brand of Reflexology and Fish Spas, well known in Asia, is the first of its kind in India and is now open in Chennai’s largest shopping venue, Express Avenue. KenkoRefloxology& Fish Spa addresses the needs of the highly stressed and demanding lifestyles of customers, in a competitive environment. Kenko Reflexology & Fish Spa – Chennai will be the ultimate urban escape and a perfect place to calm the day’s stresses away!
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k
Ju
ru n
nk
Junk in the Trunk
G
ADGETS This season
- Renie Ravin
T his s e as o n
SAMSUNG Galaxy tab
Is it a tablet or a smart phone? You be the judge. Touted as a potential iPad killer, the Samsung Tab has a 7 inch screen, a whole 2.7inches short of Apple’s offering. What it lacks in the size department, it makes up for with portability, a bright, higher dots-per-inch TFT screen, and flash support. Viewing flash-intensive web pages does make the browser slower, but hey – it’s nice to have the option. The body is made of plastic, but it feels sturdy enough to withstand everyday use and looks great. As with most devices competing with an i-something, the charging dock is at the bottom and a 3.5mm headphone jack sits at the top. The touch screen is a pleasure to use, with responsiveness being as good as the iPad thanks to a 1Ghz processor at its core. Its dual cameras are another winner, although they won’t replace your regular point and shoot. Expected price:Rs.38,000.
STAR THEATRE PRO Home Planetarium Looking up at the vast universe at night is both humbling and aweinspiring; it’s an experience that has enthralled scientists, inspired philosophy, spawned religions and almost always makes us wonder – are we truly alone? The Star Theatre Planetarium uses the same lens as a full-scale planetarium, which means you get to have the planetarium experience right from your bean bag at home. With the capability to project up to 10,000 vivid stars onto the ceiling, emulate the earth’s rotation based on your hemisphere, set a nap timer, and even customize the frequency of shooting stars, the Star Theatre Pro will send you on a trip like never before. If you were one of those kids who had to make do with glow-in-the-dark stickers on your bedroom ceiling, then this is for you. Price:$169.99 (approx)
SONY Alpha SLT-A33 Despite its looks, this is not a DSLR. That doesn’t mean it cannot outshine a DSLR in several departments though. The A33 is a concept camera from Sony that is aimed at the user who wants to upgrade to an SLR without having to go through a steep learning curve. Here’s the exciting bit - unlike an SLR which has a mirror that flips every time you take a shot, this camera uses a translucent mirror which splits light between the main sensor and a secondary dedicated AF sensor. Inspired by the 1965 Canon Pellix, this technology allows the A33 to shoot at a continuous 7 frames per second, outdoing most semi-pro SLRs. The dedicated AF sensor locks onto targets so fast you’ll begin to wonder who’s in charge of taking the photograph. The panorama mode is easy to use, the LCD is big and bright and video look great in full HD. The lack of a mirror does have its downsides which will keep discerning DSLR users at arm’s length, but this baby will fit right into most people’s click-happy palms. Priced at Rs.31,000 (approx). 50 TAXI December 2010
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MOVIE UNSTOPPABLE A runaway train barrels through rural Pennsylvania with a cargo of toxic chemicals, headed straight for the city; meanwhile, a veteran engineer (Denzel Washington) and a rookie conductor (Chris Pine) hatch a desperate play to try to stop it. Writer Mark Bomback expands on a real 2001 incident in Ohio, doubling the speed, the danger and the threatened population; and his script is a model of action writing—crisp, sharp and clear, with just enough tech-speak to sound authentic without bogging down the pace. Director Tony Scott keeps his trademark chaotic editing to a minimum, and the hair-raising action is convincing. A near-classic nail biter, with Rosario Dawson, Kevin Dunn and Kevin Corrigan in fine support.
BOOK THE IMMORTALS OF MELUHA BY AMISH TRIPATI
Courtesy: Full Circle at Chamiers
Myths are nothing but jumbled memories of a true past; a past buried under mounds of earth and ignorance. Where does truth end and myth begin? Was Nandi a mythical bull and the carrier of the god Shiva or a Captain in the Meluhan army and a loyal follower of a Tibetan immigrant called Shiva? Was Sati a fabled goddess and wife of the god Shiva or a melancholic Meluhan princess who found love in a passionate Tibetan immigrant? If someone wants to read the sacred tales of a mythical god, there are various scriptures they could find. But if they want to discover the possible truth that existed before myth took over, if they want to read a grand adventure, if they want to know the real man behind the legend of god, they should explore the books of the Shiva Trilogy. The Immortals of Meluha, is the first book on the stroy of Shiva, the simple man whose Karma recasts him as our Mahadev, the God of Gods.
MUSIC BLACK EYED PEAS – THE BEGINNING Everybody has waited enough for the Peas’ brand new venture. Echoes of “Dirty Dancing,” ghetto tech, Daft Punk, early Gwen Stefani and more waft throughout the set, from the Slick Rick sample that animates “Light Up the Night” to Fergie’s unabashedly Debbie Harry-esque delivery over a disco strut on “Fashion Beats,” a song destined for the catwalks next season. The music is expertly produced, but problems arise when Will.i.am claims the same of his wordplay. On the track “Don’t Stop the Party,” he chest-thumps, “Kill you with my lyricals/Call me verbal criminal.” It’s a silly boast for an artist who clearly focuses on beats over rhymes, and is probably better off for it.
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December 2010 TAXI 51
C R O S SWORD 1
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ACROSS
7
1. Extremely cold (5) 4. Out of fashion (5) 8
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8. Communication channel (7) 9. Crowd scene actor (5) 10. Part of a church (5)
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11. Unlawful (7) 12. Natural abilities or qualities (6)
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14. Conundrum (6)
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18. Malleable (7) 17 18
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20. Irritated (5) 20
22. Spear (5)
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23. Acute (7) 24. Stringed instrument (5) 22
25. Overheads (5)
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DOWN 1. Chivalrous (7) 2. Guides (5) 3. Distinguish (7) 4. Writing implement (6) 5. Carapace (5) 6. Lured (7)
Sudoku Sudoku Fill in the missing spaces so that each row, column and 3x3 block have all the numbers from 1 to 9. Difficulty level: Mild v
7. Intended (5) 13. Curt (7) 15. Ludicrous (7) 16. Interminable (7) 17. Sheep known for its high quality fleece (6) 18. Greek letter (5) 19. Paragon (5)
3 7
3
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8
4 6
2
1
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21. Male monarchs (5)
vV
1 5
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2
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9 8
5 1
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1 3
2 7