AUGUST 2014
THE TEAM Publisher- Narendre Singh Parihar Editor-in-Chief: Navneet Parihar Editor- Bhanu Pratap Singh Panwar Sub-Editor: Apoorva Pant Writers: Bhanu Pratap Singh Panwar Apoorva Pant Vritti Parasher Marketing and Sales: Vritti Parasher +91 7500798773 Pallavi Jaiswal Sr. Business Developer Neeraj Bharti Admin & IT Sahil Gusain
Marketing and Sales (Delhi) Anurag Parihar +91 7838701326
Designed & Published at Isis Lifestyle Pvt Ltd Art Direction | Shubhojit Chatterjee, Kaartik Jain Design and image editing | Puneet Bhartia Published by: Narendre Singh Parihar 31 Canal road, near Synergy Hospital, Dehradun- 248001 Website: www.doonwindow.com Editorial email: doon.window@gmail.com Entire contents copyright 2014 Doon Window. All rights reserved. Reproduction or translation in any language in whole or in part without permission is prohibited. Requests for permission should be directed to Doon Window at doon.window@gmail.com. Opinions carried in Doon Window are the writers’ and not necessarily endorsed by Doon Window or the publishers. The publisher assumes no responsibility for return of unsolicited material unless accompanied by sufficient return postage. Nor is it responsible for material lost or damaged in transit. All correspondence regarding advertising or editorial should be addressed to Doon Window, 31 Canal road, near Synergy Hospital, Dehradun-248001, Uttarakhand, India.
CONTENTS
Editorial
Property
Anand Lok Resort
Adaa Store
Waste Warriors
Photo Feature
T-Bistro
Vegie Story
Bakeries
Book Stores
Speak Up
Book Review
Movie Review
Lokesh Ohri
Horoscope
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06
20
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70
24
58
10
26
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- BY JYOTI BAHRI Mind beyond judgment, watches and understands, is a big key to tarot reading. The forecast for the month of August is as per the stars of each month. It can vary as per the birth date. My tarot reading aims at providing the readers, a vision to a better state-of-mind, and a future worth the hard work. My cards personally do not answer
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Home Add-ons 14
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Luthra Maternity 16
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From the Editor’s Desk Dehra Dun and luxury are understandably synonymous. Uttarakhand’s capital has always been the seat of imperial power, and by consequence home to an cream class of citizen. Wealth, excess and decadence are in no short supply. When the mighty from industry, politics, the arts and highest echelons of society mingle, the resultant cocktail gets heady.Dehra Dun at par with the best in the Uttarakhand when it comes to hospitality. Its malls are stocked by the latest fashion brands and farmhouses that are tastefully decorated with art and artifacts. The young drive into the night with their Super-cars and the young by heart enjoy their nights third bottle of Chardonnay. So for us that’s Cream Dehra Dun, a city where the rich and the connoisseurs of good living move in a hallowed circle. And with this very note we would like to introduce you the Magazine that will capture it all and bring you into a world known as Doon Window.
DO-NOT MISS OUR FIRST ISSUE Editor-in-Chief Navneet Parihar
5
PROPERTY IN DEHRADUN 7
Dehradun is known for its authenticity and beauty, but what it is now coming up as well is a perfect home destination and retirement abode. It is ranked 5th in preference in residential property in India. In this article you will find the places where you might want to invest your money and your future. Dehradun has a rich ‘elite’ heritage
hara Road is another locations that are
and numerous ways of displaying
witnessing serious building projects.
it. Historically dating back, the city
Sahstradhara Road
Rishikesh The holy river, the saints and now apartments in such a holy place, what else
was tailor-made for British and other This part of Dehradun has and is also
does a person, who wants peace want?
coming up with en number of apart-
Since Beatles came in 60s, Rishikesh
There are still buildings to observe its
ments for the buyers who are interest-
has become the number one yoga hub
best architecture, private properties
ed. This place has become the talk of
of the world. Besides Jollygrant provid-
and locals to tell the tale, but now,
the town because of plans such as an
ing with an airport, this place would be
even though the trends are changing,
enormous mall by Unitech (GIP) and a
hard to miss. Projects such as Aryavan
the architecture remains as well-heeled
five star hotel by Prateek Group.
(cottages) launched by Gharonda Infra
as ever. And despite the fact that it is
The current growth is near IT Park, near
Projects Pvt. Ltd. offer a high-class
blooming, small, without the vigour of
Sahastradhara Road, with projects such
service. There is nothing better than
a metropolitan city, it is still one of the
as Doon Square and Eminent Heights
investing in an area that you would not
best places in India to live.
coming up in 2017. With bigger projects
only want to visit but also live which
such as Pacific Golf Estates coming
has all the mysticism and spirituality
The Chakrata Road, which links to
up, this place is sure to be the hub of
attached.
the famous Clock Tower, has under-
residential activity. Because this place
gone major changes recently. The road
never had much traffic of humans, it has
There are several villas, apartments and
was creating a bottleneck, because
large expanse of land for sell that can
bungalows for sale and you can own
of which there was a constant traffic
very well have be used for constructing
one yourself by contacting the dealer
jam around the area. A number of
villa, farmhouses and houses in general.
and telling him the kind of home you
old shops shops were vacated, and
Prices vary from INR 7 lakhs for 900sq/
dream to own.
the buildings torn down. The shops
ft to 24 lakhs for the same amount of
were relocated to the MDDA shopping
land, depending on the location (source:
complex nearby. Rajpur and Sahstrad-
Holiday Homes Times).
cream-of-the-crop population.
9
Feature: Anand Lok
A PLACE TO CLEANSE YOUR SOUL
Nestled in the quiet banks of the holy
The resort also has a meditation hall,
As far as the food is concerned, the resort
river of Ganga, Anand Lok is just not
which can accommodate upto 20 people.
offers simple vegetarian meals to its guest.
any other resort located on the banks
It has a warm, inviting and a peaceful
The kitchen aims to offer its guest fresh
of the holy river, it is a retreat centre,
atmosphere, where the guests can relax
home-made food, that will help the guests
which specialises in organising yoga and
and meditate in the right frame of mind.
not only consuming healthy food, but
meditation camps. The Ganga retreat is
The hall has huge windows on all sides and
it will also help in maintaining balance
close enough to the river to attract guests
has plenty of cross-ventilation. Because
between the body and soul. The resort
from not just India, but all over the world.
of this there is circulation of fresh air,
specialises in home-grown, fresh and
Its remoteness provides the guests peace,
which gives the guests a feel as they
pesticide-free meals.
tranquility and natural beauty, which is
are in midst of nature. They feel as if
unparalleled anywhere else in the world.
they are right there in the upper regions
Getting to the camp is in itself a mystic journey. In order to get to the camp, one has to cross the river in a boat. After a few minutes boat ride, you will reach the opposite bank, which is not only untouched by the modern developments,
of the Himalayas. The designer and the founder of the palce has been practising yoga for the past many decades. He has a complete understanding of the method and also of the the environment, in which yoga should be practiced.
but also it has a mystical aura to it. One
The area of the mediation hall is huge, and
will have to walk around a few hundred
it is an open area. If a person is living in
metres and you will reach the lawns of
a city, it is nearly impossible to practice
Anand Lok. The smell of the lemon grass
yoga, because of all the noise, which
in the garden will replenish your mind, as
comes from everywhere, disturbing the
you will pass the herbal farm, just before
peaceful environement which is needed
you enter a special area.
to practice yoga. At Anand Lok, they offer
As far as your stay is concerned, the retreat has put together all the comforts,
open space to perform yoga with scenic and peaceful surroundings.
which benefit the moder n living. The
N o t o n l y t h i s , t h e re s o r t a l s o o ff e r s
resorts include ten cottages, which are
unlimited nature trek, and village tours.
further divided into four double room
The staff at Anand Lok resort, guide the
cottages, three single occupancy cottages
guests through the village, and help them
and three newly built double occupancy
in experiencing a typical himalayan village
rooms.
lifestyle.
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The restaurant is located on the rooftop, overlooking the river. The sitting gives the guests a panoramic view of the river, and the foothills of the Himalayas. At night one can also gaze at the stars while listening to the sound of the Ganges below. The resort also believes in giving back to the society. They employ only those who live nearby, and train them. The moto of the resort is, eat healthy and stay healthy. The resort also has an in-house organic store, which provides the patrons with all kind of organic food, to ointments such as lemon grass. The store was started keeping in mind the rural population of the hill state. The idea behind to start the store was to generate employment among the rural people, so that they can also earn their livelihood. This not only promotes tourism, but it also helps the local folks to earn money, and the best part is that it is not harmful to the local flora and fauna.
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All of us long to have a home, which is not only comfortable, but also pampers and spoils us. With such hectic lifestyles, people are looking for houses, which have a luxurious character in them. There are various things which can be added to your home to give a special look and also to cater to your needs. Following are a few upgrades, which are not only worthwhile additions to your home, but also a nice way to relax after a tiring day at work.
Steam and Sauna Room
Swimming Pool
A Wine Cellar / Bar
The idea of adding a steam and a
Nothing works better for a tired soul
A wet bar, with a wine cellar can be
sauna room in a house, has always
than a nice soak in the swimming pool
a lavish addition to your home. Be it
captured the imagination of a lot of
at any time of the day, Hollow out your
for entertaing the guests or to spend
people. The concept of hot tubs, sau-
backyard to a leisurely swimming pool
some quality time with your friands,
na room, massage rooms and jacuuzi,
or even consider an indoor swimming
the wet bar is perfect place to relax
which have always been popular in
pool, for the added dose of privacy
after work. Wine cellars offer stor-
the west, have now also made their
it offers. Elite custom-made fixtures
age and preservation space for your
presence felt in India. These luxuries
and features like a fountain, gazebo,
priced collection of fine wines. One
not only soothes a person’s senses,
bar, and cabanas, add to the groove
can also add high bar stools, cooling
but they also add to the beauty of
in your late night pool-side parties.
systems, tabletops and champagne
the house. One can opt for modular build sauna, sauna kit or custom made sauna or whichever type suits your home. From traditional wooden to the modern infrared, and fibreglass panelled sauna rooms, there are a number of options to choose from.
glasses, to round up.
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Library
Home Theatre
Sports Hub
This one is for book lovers. Your idea
Customise a room in your house, if
If you are a sports lover, then a pri-
of relaxing is curling up with a book
you want a home theatre experience.
vate playground, basketball/tennis
on a cosy sofa, then a library would
Nothing else can beat the thrill of
court, a bowling alley or even a put-
be the best option, as an addition
watching your favourite movie on
ting greens can be a welcome addition
to your home. You can store your
a big screen, that also right in your
to your luxurious home. If one wants
priceless books in the safe shelves,
home, But do keep one thing in mind
to unwind after work, or just simply
where you will easily be able to reach
while opting for a home theatre, is to
exercise, then one can simply use
them. The library can also double-up
keep the floor carpeted and the decor
the in-house exercise-yoga studio or
as a work-from-home, home space.
such, so that it gives a rich tone to
the water powered treadmill or have
If not naturally lit, make sure to in-
the whole room, and enhance your
a game of poker in the poker lounge.
stall lighting as per your liking. You
movie wathcing experience. We also
You can also opt for an in-house gym,
should also keep in mind that your
recomment that you install high-qual-
which has lots of natural light, a dance
library would be incomplete without
ity sound panels, near your seating
studio with custom made spring floor.
a lounge or a comfortable seating
arrangement, for the real feel.
arrangement. Additionally, if you have the space, you could even opt for a double-decker layout.
Luthra Maternity and Infertility Centre
‘I am a workaholic. I love taking challenges.’
As I waited in a well lit doctor’s waiting
Azad College, Delhi, and finally came to
lot about your nature, and also how well
cabin of the Luthra Maternity and Infertility
Dehradun in 1998, and settled here.
do you want to excel in the field. I have
Centre, I noticed the place was bubbling with cheerful expectant mothers, all eager for their check-ups. The place had a positive aura, and even the staff was
Arti’s main motive to become a gynaeclologist was to serve women. “I choose to become a gynaecoloigist because I
a great staff, and they have adjusted according to me well, and everything is prim and proper.”
wanted to serve women. And I also think
Balancing between such a demanding
that women understand each other better.
job can be a huge challenge, but this is
As a result no other profession would
one challenge which she handles well.
have made me as empathetic as this one.
She described her relationship with her
Women feel secure and calm with me,
family saying that her family is very un-
attended her patients.
and they do not hesitate to share their
derstanding and they not only accept her
problems with me. What else a doctor
work but also support her. She says that
“My mother was a homemaker, and she
wants?,” added Luthra.
her family is an ideal family and she is
supportive, always ready to lend a hand, with smiles on their faces. Dr Arti Luthra, MBBS, MS (OBS, Gynaecologist), was in middle of her rounds, when I dropped in. Before letting me into her world, she
wanted me to become a doctor,” said a cheerful Luthra. “I was the second girl child, so when I was born, my family wasn’t exactly happy about it. It was then when my mother stepped in, and decided that she would not let this affect me. She wanted to educate me and make me independent. It was her dream that I should become a doctor, and here I am,” said Luthra was born and brought up in Agra. She got her MBBS degree from Sarojini Naidu Medical College, Agra. She was also a consultant at Maulana
“I love meeting people and reaching out
lucky to have such a nice family.
to them. Each one has a unique story. I
“My husband and my children understand
cannot describe it in words, the gratifica-
that I need to spend time with my patients.
tion and the feeling of contentment when
I spend my time more in my clinic than at
I meet them and hear out their stories. I
home. And they have been always been
sometimes feel that it is my life’s purpose,
very supportive of that,” said Luthra
and I am very happy of what I am doing,” added Luthra.
“I do not have fixed timings, and some-
Talking about how she handles her em-
whatever time I have, I spend it with my
ployees, Luthra says, “I am a strict boss.
family. My children are my biggest pillar
I am a perfectionist, and want everything
of strength.
to be in order, because your work talks a
time I have to work during odd hours. But
17
Talking about her mother, Luthra says,
and every day is a new day for me, with
years. My children would have finished
“My mother had put all her energy and
new beginnings and opportunities. This
their studies, and would be independent,
prayers for her children, while I do it for
is what motivates me to come out and
because of which I will have more time
my patients. I can never compete with
perform. I have always loved meeting new
for my patients.”
my mother. She is like a sky-scraper,
people and I feel that both are influencing
and I am just like a small hut. Besides, I
each other.”
Dr Arti Luthra also talks about the em-
Talking about her routine, Luthra says ,
girls to have values and not get carried
my family understands it.”
“ The first thing in the morning what I do
away by the trends in soap operas. “Wom-
is light a lamp and pray. I am a religious
en should feel blessed for being born
Satisfaction and appreciation are two
person and I believe that it is because of
as themselves. They should empower
things that everyone wants from their
god that I have come so far. Sometimes
themselves and strive to be financially
profession, but very few achieve it. Luthra
patients come here, reading about disease
independent. I would like to quote what
is one such person. “I have many pleasant
on the internet and the start worrying.
Sheila Murray Bethel said, ‘Because this
memories throughout the years, and yes,
Because of which there is delay in the
is so close to me, that one of the most
texts and thank you notes always make
healing. I tell them to be calm and not
courageous things one can do is identify
my day,” informed Luthra. “It shows how
worry. Sometimes I also put religious
themselves, know who they are, what
my preence and my work has affected
songs while operating, which automati-
they believe in and where they want to
people in a positive way, and I how im-
cally relaxes the atmosphere.
go. Concluded Luthra.
am a workaholic, and I love challenges. I love working and I am really lucky that
portant I am for them.”
As far as the future is concerned, Luthra
So what gives her the motivation to get
sees herself at the same place where she
out of bed every morning? “I love life,
is now. “I will be right here, even after 10
powerment of women and the need for
ISIS LIFESTYLE we are a turnkey print publishing agency based in New Delhi, India. We specialise in making and printing of brochures, coffee table books and fine stationery from scratch. Our clients include the World’s finest luxury brands, Education institutions and largely, the Indian Army. If you’re looking for the best in quality, we’re available.
19
First Floor, 50 MB Road, Saidulajab New Delhi - 110030 +91 9910 3956 03 | +91 9971 5333 32 log on to showcase.isislifestyle.asia for more.
Adaa
A dream store for ladies
These days the trend in brand investment is huge, but what really counts is the establishment and their success over the years. Ritu Kumar is one such name in the fashion industry, which is traditional yet contemporary. The brand is trusted and valued not only in India, but also across the globe.
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Looking at the designer’s history, it has a has earned quite a name for herself since the year 1969. It has not only been dressing up India with its vibrant colours, but also providing livelihood to the craftsmen, who contribute to the company. The popularity of this ace fashion designer is so much, that even the stars of our film industry drape in her creations. Idolism of Bollywood and its stars is quite prevalent in India, and the fans, following the film stars is a common sight. The reason why this brand has sustained itself over the years is because of innovation. The designs are changed according to the fashion trends and are of superior quality. Dehradun has relatively remained a quite place, as far as fashion is concerned. But over the years, with the advent of technology, especially television and internet, people of Dehradun have been exposed
to the fashion trends in the metro cities. Aada, the name of the store which is associated with Ritu Kumar, has been the centre of attraction for a lot of Doonites. The store has been generating a lot of
the demand of the customer. Customers can also get their own customized clothing for their occasional needs. Colours are notable and striking, only if it is in sync with the occasion.
buzz with its latest collection. The store
Shifting the focus to a narrower topic,
houses brands that cater to traditional
when lehngas are put under spot light, it
Indian wear such as saris, salwar-suit
requires the customer to place an order
and lehenga.
for their particular set. There is also a
The store also sells a number of accessories such as bracelets, earrings, bangles and rings. The store is located at one of
limited edition to select from. However, the collection in the store is not disappointing at all.
the most frequented areas of Dehradun,
The reason why people purchase clothes
the Rajpur road.
from Aada, is because of the marvelous
The store has good collection of not only suits of Ritu Kumar, but also other known celebrity designers like Anita Dongre and brands like Global Desi. The price range of the store can vary as per the choice and
collection of both clothes and accessories. These clothes are not only meant for tempting women, but they are also the first choice for many men as a gifting purpose.
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The owner of this store Sonal Arora, has
and western outfits. Arora takes pride
a very close connect with her endeavors
in her Ritu Kumar and Anita Dongre col-
and takes keen interest in her exclusive
lection, and has always encouraged her
collection. Her personal choice reflects
customer to buy the best.
and is shown in the clothing’s displayed in the showroom. This woman entrepreneur has her way and is blessed with such a personality that at the end along with
Karigiri, another store which comes under Aada, has a variety of artificial jewelry. Description of these accessories is beyond
the store customers are all in awe of her.
words. The quality of these accessories
She makes it a point to give personal
right amount of precious metals such as;
attention to her customers so that they
gold, silver, platinum, titanium and cop-
leave the store with immense satisfaction
per come with the best of patterns and
and pride with their purchased product.
at affordable rates. The store is located
“I am glad that the response has been
at the Pacific Mall, which happens to be
relatively good and that there are many
the largest mall in Dehradun.
admirers,� says Sonal. She also finds her clients sober, and that they are limited. She also emphasized on the fact that during the vacations, when there is an influx of tourists, her store is filled with customers, and they prefer both Indian
is one of the best in Dehradun. With the
Waste Worriors Helping to keep the city clean
Jodie Underhill came to India as a tourist.
tremendous increase in the population,
She travelled all over India, and volun-
the garbage in the city has increased
teered for the Tinetian Children’s Village
manifolds. Someone has to do the job of
in Dharmshala. Here she noticed that the
cleaning up the city,” says Jodie.
is just not meant for the rag pickers pick
if the government is not doing its job,
it should be picked up by everyone.
garbage situation in India was very bad. It bothered her a lot and that is when she decided to do something about it. It was in Dharamshala, where she started a group called Mountain Cleaners, and started to collect the garbage, weekly. Most of the work was and is still done
then it is up to the residents of this city to do it. “We are here to assist them, help and make them realise that it is wrong to throw the garbage anywhere and everywhere and also that it is ok to collect
throwing the garbage,” says Underhill. Underhill emphasis on the fact that waste alone, since it is generated by everyone,
Talking about the problems which she has faced over the years, the one which she faces the most is lack of support from the government. “From getting sub-standard
by volunteers.
the garbage,” says Jodie.
dustbins after a long period of time to
The aim to start Waste Warriors was to
“One of the major problems which the city
which we had painted, there are lots of
faces is the segregation of the garbage.
moments, which are heart wrenching,
People should always segregate between
but when the government starts to act
dry waste and wet waste. Even though
against you, it is really a bad feeling,”
the garbage collection trucks are coming,
adds Jodie.
promote and provide affordable waste management systems that improve the quality of the already depleting environment. One of the main reasons to start waste warriors was to remove the social stigma which is attached to garbage
but they won’t solve the problem, till the time the waste is segregated. People
collection.
keep blaming the government authorities
Why Dehradun, Jodies says “Dehradun
equally responsible, for creating such a
was a beautiful town, and now with the
mess, after all they are the ones who are
for most of the things, but they are also
people putting up posters on the walls
We are willing to help the government, we can even train their workers in waste management techniques, but they never approach us. We can help them in creating various
25 waste management models, but they
Another problem which Jodie faces is
never ask us for our help, and that can be
the donations. Not much comes in terms
discouraging sometimes. The government
of donation. “People are ready to spend
officials have even gone to the extent of
on clothes, but hesitate, when it comes
saying that we should not clean up the
to giving the smallest of donations for a
garbage, since it is not our responsibility
good cause. People think that since I am
to do so. All this is very discouraging. We
a white girl, I will be loaded with cash,
are doing it, because they are not doing
but that is not the case. Waste warriors
their job,” says Jodie.
needs money, in order to do its day to
Talking about more problems, Jodie says, “In order to clean the city thoroughly, we need more volunteers. We need people
day workings. The staff needs to get its salary, the rent has to be paid, the bills have to be paid,” adds Jodie.
who are dedicated enough to clean the
Waste Warriors also have a number of pro-
garbage areas in and around the city.
gramems, such as wall painting, wherein
We don’t expect them to help us clean
they paint the walls in and around Dehra-
everyday, but the least they can do is to
dun, those which have posters on them.
help us on a Sunday, that also only for
Their paintings always leave a message
an hour. They can give an hour to help
for the people of Doon, to keep their
make their own city cleaner,” said Jodie.
city clean.
She also has a lot of faith in the youth of the city, since they are the ones, who volunteer the most.
PHOTO FEATURE Feature #1. Rajul Gupta Feature #2. Glimpses of people and places of Dehradun and around. photographed by Shubhojit Chatterjee
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Main Building Forest Research Institute
31
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Afzal and Abia, Street children Rajpur Road
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A hill-house study Landour
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Hathi Paon Hathi Paon Mussoorie Mussoorie
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Smoking Room Smoking Room BNM Book Store BNM Book Store
Samiksha Bahri PHotographed by : Jonathan Gideon
Niharika Bisht PHotographed by : Jonathan Gideon
Apoorva Pant PHotographed by : Jonathan Gideon
View of Dehradun Valley Way to Mussoorie
45
From having tea with friends and chat- bai, to work in the film industry. I worked day one. The customers which we get ting with them, to just chilling.
there for some time. I wanted to open a belong to all age groups. Our youngest beer café, but my sister who stays in the customer is three-years-old, while the
Situated near the conjunction of Old Sur- US, suggested to open up a tea bistro in oldest customer is 80-years-old. vey road and the East Canal Road, it is Doon. She had seen the tea culture in the the first of its kind in the sleepy town of US spreading like wild fire, and knew that Kanti explains that he had intended to Doon. What makes this Bistro unique is it will become a hit here as well. That is target the audience around the age group the fact that instead of serving beer, the when I decided to open a tea bistro, with of 35 years, but when people from all the bistro serves tea. Yes, you heard it right, the setting of a beer café,” said Kanti.
age group started coming to the bistro,
the bistro serves tea.
he was pleasantly surprised. “I had never The Bistro was opened on April 13, 2014. imagined that people from varied age
Anand Kanti, the owner of the Bistro is a “At the time when I opened the bistro, I group will become our regular customers,” busy man, with customers coming round did not know how the response will be said Kanti. the clock; he hardly gets the time for him- like. But since the time it has opened, self. A graduate in film studies, Kanti’s first we have had great response. In fact the Kanti also explains that he wanted to revive love has always been films. “I wanted to response which we got, exceeded our the music and culture of Dehradun. “Over become a director; hence I went to Mum- expectations. We have been busy since the years the music and art and culture for
Anand Kanti
47
49 Dehradun has been on a steep decline, tea, everything is served here.
sations while enjoying a good meal. As it
I wanted to revive that. Being a Doonite,
is the weather here is great, and on top
I always wanted to proud of the Doon “We serve 72 variety of tea to our cus-
of that, if we have a cafe like this, then
culture, which is now rapidly disappearing tomers. We are also planning to convert it
it is bound to change the weekends for
into the oblivion,” says Kanti.
into a tea store, in order to sell tea to the
the people.” Kanti plans to open the cafe,
people. I am like a modern ‘Chaiwallah’. It
just three days a week; Friday, Saturday
“I want to promote local artists; I want the seems that being a chaiwallah is in fashion world to know that Uttrakhand doesn’t these days. “People come here and talk have only natural beauty, but also artistic over a cup of tea, and spend hours here, talent. As a conscious citizen I want to and this is what I want. This is how I always do my bit for the people of Uttrakhand, pictured this place. The only difference is make their potential known to the outside that people of Dehradun have accepted world,” added Kanti.
this bistro very early, I never imagined a response like this so early,” said Kanti.
Talking more about the café Kanti says that he doesn’t like putting up reserved plates Talking about the future plans, Kanti says on the table. “When I opened this bistro, I that he also wants to start the brunch culhad decided not to put up reserved plates, ture in Dehradun. “When I was in Mumbai, I because I wanted to make my customers saw that the brunch culture was very much feel welcomed. I wanted them to choose popular among the working class. People any place they wanted, and sit anywhere would throng these places during the Talking about the tea, the bistro serves weekends like crazy. I want to make this several variety of tea, to its customers. culture popular in Dehradun also, where From herbal tea to Sri Lankan tea, the people over the weekends can just come Ceylon and Kandy variety, to Victorian sit and enjoy their brunch. Have conver-
and Sunday.
Choose your vegetable Not made in India, an unusual sight while grocery shopping
With opening up of vegetable stores all over the city, the residents have a number of options to choose from. One such store is Fresh ‘n’ Easy. The store is like any other grocery store that can be found in the metro cities. Centrally located, with everything under one roof, it is a one stop shop for all.
In the earlier days, if people had to
such a variety of ingredients could
go for shopping, they used to go
be ever be available in Dehradun.
to ‘Paltan Bazzar’, for their shop-
Edam, Grana Padano, Gouda, Ri-
ping. It was the ultimate place to
cotta, Blue Cheese, Cheddars, and
find their monthly grocery needs,
many more, are adding to the taste
and in some cases even the yearly
of Dehradun.
rations. No doubt that in the past few years, Dehradun has undergone
Cheese might be important as far
a major change, not only in infra-
as preparing a pizza is concerned,
structure, but also the standard of
but equally important is the sea-
living has seen a change. Even the
soning. With huge variety of sea-
purchase pattern of the consumers
soning options available, the stores
has changed. Many residents have
across the city have made sure that
started to purchase exotic vegeta-
a variety of seasoning options are
bles in order to make their dishes
available for their customers.
more ‘interesting’. If you think the things which are W ith opening up of vegetables
listed above is all that the city food
stores all over the city, the resi-
store offers, then you are highly
dents have a number of options
mistaken. This is just a glimpse
to choose from. One such store
of what all is available in the city.
is Fresh ‘n’ Easy. The store is like
People, who like to have English
any other grocery store that can
breakfast, also have an option.
be found in metro cities.
Coffee beans, baked bean are all available in the city. If the beans do
Centrally located, with everything
not adhere to the taste buds of the
under one roof, it is a one stop shop
people, then jams of variety flavours
for all. The products are also very
are also available in the stores.
exclusive, since they are imported from countries like, United Kingdom
People might see some of these
and United States of America, the
food products under unhealthy cat-
quality is assured. Some of the
egory, but there is more to than
products which can be bought from
them being just unhealthy. Olives
the stores are: Yellow mustard, pas-
are known for their health benefits.
ta sauce, spaghetti , figaro olive oil,
Sliced Green Spanish Olives, na-
hot chocolate drink and many more.
cho sliced jalapenos, whole green olives, minced pimiento and many
In the earlier times it seemed im-
more are available in the city.
possible to find the ingredients to prepare a gourmet, but now after
Don’t get it wrong if grocery prod-
coming up of such stores, it has
ucts stated above lie under ‘un-
become easy to prepare. Prepar-
healthy’ category because there
ing of Mexican and Italian food
is more, yet fitness wise exclusive,
has become easier, because of the
you just need to brush up your ex-
easy availability of key ingredients.
pectations. Olives, are known for
The popularity of the Italina cuisine
health benefits, the sliced green
has existed ever since it has been
Spanish olives, nacho sliced jala-
known to mankind, with pasta and
penos, whole green olives, minced
pizza topping the list. There is a
pimiento and are equally healthy.
variety to the cuisine, which is not
W ith olives influence you get to
known to the people. Food lov-
have pesto and red pesto sauce
ers could not have imagined that
with extra virgin olive oil.
51
“I used to get the mustard sauce all the way from Mumbai, as it was of import quality, but now the same quality is available here. More than anything else everything is nearby, so one does not have to travel out of the city to buy these items,” said a customer. who was a first time customer with of Fresh n Easy.” added the customer. She was also quite satisfied with the items available at the store. The change is not concerned only till exotic vegetables, but also beverages. Even though internationally renowned brand Starucks has not yet opened up in Dehradun, the locals can still get a variety of coffee in the store. Even quality fruit juices are available in the store. Apart from that, fruits such as green apple and kiwi are also available at Fresh n Easy. Finding the correct ingredients for a non-vegetarian dish was a bit of a hassle, but now, with stores such Fresh ‘n’ Easy coming up, it has become easier for the locals to find key ingredients for exotic non-vegetarian dishes. Sole fillet, salted salmon are a few items that can be found here. If reading about this store has got your attention, then it is time for you to visit the store and buy some ingredients to make some mouth watering dishes. To satisfy your hunger pangs, why not make some dishes from around the world. This is it! It is time to get out of the usual cooking methods and try something new. Make yourself and your loved ones the dishes, which are really to die for. Stop thinking and start cooking.
53
The small town of Dehradun has always been famous for its bakery products. Be it rusks, or biscuits, these products are things to die for. People, who visit Dehradun, always make sure that they take back these products with them. Here we bring you the confluence of both the old and the new; those bakeries which have already left their mark, and the new ones, which have started to make their mark, by baking in new items.
55
SUNR ISE B AKERY If you are wandering the streets of Pal-
He partnered with his uncle, Gulcharan
tan bazaar, you will stumble upon a lot
Singh and started working with him, when
of things worth spending your time and
he was 15-years-old.
money on. The shops have countless va-
Singh Jolly. “The key to succeed in this business is hard work. I learned the art of baking
rieties of items on display that you might
“We specialise in making, rusk, buns,
from my uncle, and I teach the same to
want to buy. From clothes, to footwear
bread, pastries and biscuits. The quality
the boys who work here. But the actual
stores, to different clothes shop, you
and the taste which you find here cannot
satisfaction is doing the work with your
name it, and it’s there!
be found anywhere else, and that I guar-
own hands,” added Amar Singh Jolly.
antee,” said a proud Amar Singh Jolly. This But the other aspect that have made,
statement is irrevocably correct, and you
So what is the advice that he would like to
and still continues to make the bazaar
will find that it is the truth when you taste
give to the young entrepreneurs, who are
stand out are its bakeries, particularly the
the products coming out of this bakery.
starting new in this venture? “It requires
Sunrise Bakery. The Bakery was opened
a lot of hard work. People hire labours,
on 1949 by Lt Harnan Singh Jolly, a Pa-
The mantra for any success is hard work.
and think that the work is done. But the
kistani immigrant who brought with him
“Even till date I come at the bakery at three
actual task is to get there and give a
the art of baking products, and a taste
in the morning, and prepare the dough. I
unique taste. Anyone can open a bakery,
so unique that it is inimitable.
bake the make the bread myself and put
but it is quality that matters,” adds Amar
them in the oven. I make the bread till
Singh Jolly.
Harnan Singh Jolly died in the early 80’s.
five in the morning and then I go home. I
He passed his legacy to Amarjeet Singh.
come back to the shop later,” says Amar
NANNY’S B AKER A bakery started in the year 1963, which
products include the famous cream
ant it is to stand on one’s feet and
went by the name of Milkmaid. Later
rolls, pastries, rusks, biscuits, buns,
be responsible. “I wanted to join the
the name changed to Ellora Bakery,
breads, rum-balls and joy-sticks.
business, as soon as I passed out from
and finally in the year 1985, the name
school, but my father said that I was
was changed to Nanny’s Bakery. Even
The bakery also sells products such as
not ready to handle the business yet.
though it was still making products
different flavoured tarts, cookies, cakes,
I did my graduation in Hotel Manage-
under the brand name Ellora, Nanny’s
muffins and exported chocolates and
ment, because of which I learned a lot.
carved out a niche of its own.
biscuits. In their need to make some-
After that I worked in Mumbai for five
thing new, they have started a new
years. I later came back to Dehradun
Tarun Gulati, who is handling the shop
shop called Chef’s creation, which is
and started working with my father. It
alongside with his father says, “I am
basically a confectionary store.
has been two years since, and I am
the third generation, my grandfather
love to work here.
started it with his brothers, then my
“I understand the need of creating
father and his brothers and now it’s
something new and that is what we
Speaking on his favourite items from
my brother and I.”
are doing. I want to reach out to the
his bakery, Tarun says, “I love to take
people and bring to them every new
pista biscuits and a toast of milk rusk
The products such as rusks, are sup-
item, which is there in the confection-
in the evening with tea. As for dessert
plied to various regions of Uttrakhand,
ary world. The reason why we started
I love chocolate pastries, and even the
and parts of Punjab, and the NCR.
Chef’s creation is because we wanted
butter toffees. Although they are great
Nanny is famous for experimenting
to include foreign products to cater to
in taste, but I cannot eat more than
with their original recipes and creating
the need of the people to try something
one at a time.”
a contemporary bakery product which
new,” , said Tarun Gulati.
suits the changing food habit of today’s generation. The original untouched
Tarun also spoke about how import-
57
RISING DOUGH Rising Dough is a new bakery at Behl
“The original idea was to crop up a
in making bakery products. “We get a
Chowk, Eucalyptus Road, which been
bakery, but now we have started to
lot of foreign customers, and they often
one of Dehradun’s top bakery in the
serve meals, which include continental,
tell us that our recipies are authentic.
past one year. It belongs to the circle
lebanese and chinese. We emphasize
Even the apple tart tastes like an apple
of Kukerja Hospitality. This is the first
on the quality and so our basic stuff
tart,” said Ajay.
bakery which has been opened by the
is imported, especially the variety of
Kukereja Group.
cheese and sausages. The first dish I
He also emphasises over the fact that
created was Cannelloni, it is a baked
one should stick to the basics, because
Rising Dough’s chef, Ajay Chamoli, who
Italian dish, but I made it with a twist,
quality matters more than quantity.
has previously worked with top-shot
so that people like it” said Ajay, with a
hotels, including Oberoi, says: “My
cheeky smile.
motto is don’t serve what you don’t like. I create things not just for the
Ajay has not only worked in India, but
sake of creating them, but because I
also in Phuket, Thailand, and Seoul in
love what I do.”
South Korea. He has vast experience
A bookstore is not just not any other store, but it is a world of enchantment. The purpose of a bookstore is not just to send the world full of extraordinary world of enchantment, but also stretch the limit of one’s imagination, and to fish out your own story. And as the saying goes, a book which you like the most, describes you the best. Here we bring you what goes in the minds of the owners of a few bookstores of Dehradun.
59
Upendra Arora | Owner, Natraj Publishers One of Dehradun’s oldest Bookshops is the son reads a book, he stretches his imagina- the fact that less and less children are readNatraj Bookshop was opened way back in tion, but when you are watching a film, you ing books these days, Arora said, “Most of 1960s. “This shop was actually started in the are actually seeing the director’s point of view. the children are reading mandatory books, 1950s Firozpur Cantonment, in Punjab by my It is his imagination that comes into play and school and competition books. They are not father. It was a border town, near Sutlej Riv- not the audiences’ imagination. And the worst interested in literature anymore, or they say er and it often overflowed, making the water part is that people come up with lame excus- that they don’t have time for reading books. If gush in and damage the books. This is when es for not reading a book,” added Arora.
this is how people’s perception about books
my father came to Dehradun. He surveyed
remain, then we are going on a downhill,” said
the city and loved the city. The rest as they Arora believes that people should also con- Arora. say is history,” said Upendra Arora, the owner serve books, the same way they conserve of the bookshop.
water and electricity. “This country would be Another bookstore which is popular in Dehin great shambles, if people stop reading. We radun is BNM, located at Bhel Chowk. BNM
Talking about what books mean to him Arora need to rub this on people, and make them is a relaxing and a cosy bookshop which ofsays, “It’s a realm on its own, a new dimen- understand,” added Arora.
fers cigars, cowboy hats, Swiss knives, and
sion. I grew up reading fiction and it took me
several other souvenirs, that people just can-
with it. Each time I read, I was automatical- Arora believes that reading books washes not miss. The place is lush with small potted ly a part of the book.” He also talked about away the everyday dust from the soul. “Read- plants, adding a homely aura to it. And if we how books are now being affected by mov- ing a book replenishes the soul. It makes you look at the stacked books in the shelves, you ies. “These day a lot of films are being made a man of substance. It is always a great de- will not once find them segregated by placbased on book. The whole phenomenon is light to meet a well read person. It is a plea- ards, as the sole intention of the store is that taking away the book reader. The notion of sure to be in the company of such people,” readers talk and find their books on their own. ‘why read books, if you can watch movies’, said Arora. is destroying the reading culture. When a per- On asking what he had to say regarding
The store also has a smoking room, another
61 Ashish Narayan | Owner, Narayan Books distinctive feature for a bookshop, where Narayanan also feels that books are being af- pened to her kindle, to which she replied that people can smoke and read, without disturb- fected by movies. “When we watch a movie, reading a book on kindle was not as exciting ing others,
we do not think, we just react to what is be- as reading a real book,” informed Narayanan. ing shown, and this is what turns people into
“I have always loved books”, says Ashish fanatics. A book reader would never be a fa- Talking about the generation being addicted Narayanan, the owner of the bookshop. “This natic, but a movie will be,” added Narayanan. to video games and television, Narayanan bebookshop was my dream and it was opened
lieves that they are missing quite a lot. “TV is
in 2003. I have even opened a bookshop “A book is not just 150 pages, bound and actually making them fanatics; they talk like in Mussoorie, which is also a café,” added sold, a book has emotions attached to it,” their favourite cartoons. Somewhere down Naraynan.
added Narayanan. The real fun is in reading the line, even the parents are to be blamed.
Narayanan believes that a book is a process, a book, the one whose pages you can flip, Dehradun is known for its school, and eduand not just a piece of paper bound together. the one you can smell, the one you can look cation, but parents rather fund the school for “Humans have a wonderful imagination, and back, even when you don’t feel like reading, a swimming pool, than a well-maintained lithe more we use it, the more it expands. Why and feel proud of. You can have 450 books in brary. Books are something, what you grow do we love fairytales? Because it is a getaway! kindle, but that will never make you as proud up with, and the children these days are missWhen you sit with a book, you are actually in as a bookrack would. a different zone altogether. You become the character of the book; you can feel it, sense “An old lady came to our store, last year, and it and live it. Nowadays people buy books as she got a kindle from her grandchildren as a if they are vegetables. Shopping for a book present. She was all excited saying she had should be fun, but it is not that anymore, be- all the books she wanted, on the device. She cause you don’t own a book, you posses it,” came back again sometime ago, and wanted said Narayanan.
to buy a book, so I asked her what had hap-
ing it,” added Narayanan.
SPEAK UP !
With various groups fighting for women rights, a lot of people have started to support it.
What does feminism Mean to you? Do you support it, why?
Katherine, Alabama, U.S.A
Aditya Yadav, Dehradun
Hanna, Texas, U.S.A
As a woman, I do think that it is alright to
Yes, I support feminism, and I also promote
“I have seen how in India women are only
it. I feel that each one should enjoy equal
supposed to be home-makers, and do
rights and that people need to broaden their
the household chores. I believe that there
perspectives. I also think that we need fem-
should be equal opportunities for everyone,
inism in India, so that our country moves
regardless of which gender they belong to.
ahead. We are still stuck in the past where
Male dominance is prevalent not just in In-
man was the head of the family, because of
dia, but also all over the world. Women have
which he could do anything he wished, but
to think twice before taking any step, while
on the other hand women had to stay home
on the other hand, men can do anything
and refrain themselves from doing anything
they want. The society should be egalitarian
they wished to do. I support feminism be-
and women should get equal opportunities.
cause I feel that there should be gender
I think the concept of feminism was good,
equality, and that there is no difference be-
but somewhere it has lost its meaning, and
tween a man and woman.
is getting on the wrong track. We create the
be submissive and quiet, but that does not mean women are weak. I think being a woman is beautiful, and every woman should embrace it. Even in America, feminism is a very active cause, and I respect it. But I do not think that genders should be compared. Saying that man is above woman, is wrong. I do not think that we should try to uplift women and give them more freedom to do whatever they wish to do, educate them and make them emotionally strong. I would rather say that we should support equality.
society together, men and women, so there should be more emphasis on women empowerment.
Praveen Kumar, Haryana
Darpan, Delhi
I think that women should be given some
I like the idea of feminism, but I also feel
sort of power by the government, because
that women are already having more pow-
rape cases are becoming more frequent. I
er. You look in our industry, they are every-
support feminism, and I believe in woman
where. But for the women who are not able
empowerment, because women are the
to reach out and feel stuck, this is for them.
ones who make the society. I think that
I really do not know if I support feminism,
women should be given more freedom and
but I know that I respect women, and I think
that they should be educated. They should
in a country where males have always been
not be married at a young age. Since the
dominant; a woman should also get power
time immemorial, women have always been
to become an equal.
neglected by the society. They have also been oppressed, and it hurts to see that those ancient practices are still continuing. I support feminism, and I believe that if there is no woman, there will be no man.
63
BOOK
REVIEW
Maharani | Ruskin Bond
The book is half-fabricated and half-true story an with a drinking habit all the same. In the of them as well. The books talks about the of Maharani of Mastipur, if she is a real per- opening lines of one of his chapters, he writes changing trends, how freedom of India afson at all, that goes by the name H.H or Nee- ‘In those years, Neena was a hedonist. Wid- fected British, cinemas houses and beautiful na as the author calls her. It is a well written owed early, she made the pursuit of pleasure Mussoorie locations. book written in first person with outlandish her principle object in life’. She spews prosituations created by Mr. Bond as he pens fanities, has a notion that Royalty should be ‘Death holds life together. Once we lose our an atypical protagonist who opens the first above all and an untamed habit of saying that fear of death, something happens to life’ line saying, ‘I think I’m dying, Ruskin.’ This she will die, to which the narrator replies, ‘You are the lines that last chapter opens with, in book is unlike any you have ever read: wit- are a cat with nine lives Neena.’ Once you which the (Spoiler Alert!) cremation ceremony ty at once, then humorous all of sudden and start reading, there will not be a moment that of Maharani proceeds. The last chapter, even then unexpectedly serious. It is set in the hills you would feel like putting the book down, though it should make you cry, actually tickof Mussoorie, following a fabulous narration unless the building is on fire.
les you yet sigh at the same time. Mr. Bond’s
by Mr. Bond, who has an expertise in vividly
indescribable writing skills are something that
describing the nature and his surroundings in Maharani is an amazing tale by Mr. Bond, actually carries you along with the story. The general.
where he weaves everything so perfectly Author Note’s quotes Mark Twain saying, that there cannot be anything wrong with it. ‘Interesting if true. And if not true, still inter-
This is 180 paged, to the point, prim and The spoilt Maharani lives in her own place in esting.’ So regardless if it is true or not, this proper book, with humor and sarcasm mixed Mussoorie, with the caretaker, maid and her book is a must read, and is certainly the kind together. Our protagonist, the Maharani, is beloved dogs. She casts away her sons, both of book that will make you read it over and too real to be a fictitious character, with such of whom have become addicted to drugs and over again, no matter how many times you a charm, authority and arrogance that it is im- alcohol, waiting to inherit the supposed lega- have read it before. If anything, this is an asset possible to not adore her. You have a glimpse cy. Also, Ruskin Bond’s love for nature and to your book collection. of her as a crazy school girl, a wild youth, a the hills of Mussoorie is evident here, and if riotous wife, and then a disorderly old wom- anything, he makes the reader become fond
65
The Fault in Our Stars | John Green
The more you write about this is book, is less.
tus Waters; they both seem perfectly suited for
If I could put it in one sentence, I would say it
each other. But they are not your average teen-
While Augustus wishes to leave a mark in this
is an epitome of impeccable writing skills and
agers, they have cancer that makes them spend
world, he fears his obvious death that might
flawless storyline where you will not have a rea-
their time thinking about oblivion, metaphors,
come any day. Hazel does not wish to hurt the
son to say, ‘Hey, that’s not how it should be.’
life and how their death would have an impact
world, and thinks about the people who have
The book will take you on an emotional ride. It is
on those who love them. Hazel, who considers
died but will never be remembered; they both
unlike you having ever read, and you cannot just
herself a grenade, fears that one day she will
have their own perceptions. From swapping
compare it to Twilight or other teenage fiction. It
explode, killing everyone in process, Augustus
their favorite book, to their trip to Amsterdam, to
is a simple story of two cancer patient meeting
even. The book tells that no matter how badly
their first kiss at Anne Frank’s place, everything
in a support group that councils youngsters suf-
you have been hurt before, you feel the same
seems imperfectly perfect.
fering from ‘tumor-driven unwellness’. The boy,
pain again and again when you get hurt.
Augustus Waters is battling with osteosarcoma
to live with each other forever.
This is not any love story of a boy and a girl, but
that took his one leg, on the other hand the girl,
John Green is brutally honest, quoting lines such
it is a love story of a boy and a girl who despite
Hazel Lancaster is fighting tumor in her lungs.
as, ‘the thing about pain is that, it demands to
dying a little each day are making the best of
Despite the story line basing on the ailment, this
be felt’ and, ‘the fault dear Brutus, is in ourselves
their remaining time. Spoiler Alert! The ending is
is not a cancer book! It is a beautiful love story
and not in our stars.’ While the book also con-
not at all happy; it will make you cry uncontrol-
that it will make you want to question Google if
tains lines such as, ‘I’m on a rollercoaster my
lably. It’s harsh, it’s sweet, it’s emotional and…
it has traces of being real. But the author, Mr.
friend, that only goes up’ and, ‘’Okay’ will be our
it’s honest!
Green, states in the beginning ‘This book is a
always, okay? Okay’ which you will definitely un-
work of fiction. I made it up.’
derline or highlight because you will want to read
The Fault in Our Stars is a must read and I rec-
it again and again.
ommend it to all who have not read it yet. Mr.
The protagonist, Hazel’s life revolves around her
Green makes you love the characters in the
favorite reality show America’s next top model,
The Fault in Our Stars will make you laugh and
most beautiful way. The end would touch you
her third best friend (after her mom and dad),
cry at the same time. You cannot help but fall in
so deep, you will cry…so don’t read without a
and Peter Van Houten, the author of her favor-
love with the characters so much that you will
tissue nearby. This story is sadder than Titanic,
ite book An Imperial Affliction. Though her life
feel their helplessness, their pain, even though
but there are many ways to write a sad story and
changes after a chance encounter with Augus-
they appear happy in their little infinity, desiring
this was a funny way.
67
Dawn of the Planet of the Apes is 131 min- Caesar, while the immune human survivors of Most people believe that sequels are not as utes, brilliant display of Matt Reeves genius, San Francisco are living in a guarded tower. implausible as the first in the series, but Dawn the director of this epic movie, with skillful The human search team led by Malcolm (Ja- of the Planet of the Apes breaks all records CGI, exceptional storyline and characters son Clarke) comes to Muir Woods in order to and this preconceived notion. It has, if this that will make you empathize with them. This find a dam that could generate electricity for can be said, more far-fetched and fantastic is the kind of movie that makes you ponder their tower in the ruined city of San Francisco. artistic visualization that is worthy of watchover it long after you have left the theatre, and A chance encounter with Caesar and other ing it in cinemas. The writers Mark Bomback, say, ‘what if apes actually know how to use apes changes everything.
Rick Jaffa and Amanda Silver invention is
a rifle?’ That said, it takes you on a journey
praise-worthy. This is a must watch movie!
as our protagonist Caesar (Andy Serkis) still The movie has unexpected twists, jaw dropcares about humans, trusts them and choos- ping scenes and moments where you cannot es peace over war.
stop but scream in your head ‘Behind you, behind you! Look behind you!’ You can feel
The movie opens in near future as the ALZ- every character’s personal struggle, be it 113 virus infects the mankind, with an un- Caesar or his son Blue Eyes, Malcolm or the countable number of people dying from it. antagonist Kobo. Dawn of the Planet of the The systems crumple, human survivors slim Apes is a classic example of a vividly exhibitdown and the economy holds no meaning ed Sci-Fi movie that can engage anyone who with amenities measuring to null. It is in this has an imagination that accepts such extravpost apocalyptic time, the mutated apes are agant portrayal. It is a PG-13 with well built living in Muir Woods and are governed by fight scenes and defined imaginary world.
Humpty Sharma Ki Dulhaniya is a tribute As per plan, once Kavya’s trip ends, she Did you know: Gaurav Pandey (Shaunty) had to Shahrukh Khan’s Dil Wale Dulhaniya Le heads back to Ambala, knowing very well that done his schooling from Sela Qui International Jaenge. Kavya Pratab Singh, a witty girl from her father, the very strict, yet loving Mr. Singh, school. He was an all-rounder. He was not ambala decides to make a trip to Delhi for would never accept her love for Humpty. But only one of the best athlete in the school, but her marriage shopping. There she meets a even though they both weren’t looking for love, also one of the brightest students. young , carefree Delhi lad, Humpty Sharma. love happened. So Humpty, accompanied Humpty’s father is the owner of a campus by his two friends, decides to go get Kavya. bookstore, where Humpty and his two best friends, Shonty and Poplu, have grown up That’s the beginning of a journey for him that together, which also remains their hangout he wouldn’t have imagined undertaking even spot even now. Kavya’s attitude towards in the wildest of his dreams. Humpty, against Humpty is unattainable, which makes her all odds, decides to convince Kavya’s family even more endearing to him. But being a Del- to agree to his alliance with her. How he does hi Punjabi boy he is not the one to give up this and if he succeeds in his mission forms so easily. Humpty with his two best friends the rest of the story. finds out all about her and through an interesting turn of events (including a ploy to ‘Humpty Sharma Ki Dulhania’ scores with its save Kavya’s friend Gurpreet’s marriage), likeable lead pair. Varun Dhawan still has raw they start growing closer to each other. edges and lets the effort show, but he is right for Humpty the Dumpty who likes sitting on The more time they spend with each other, wall, and doesn’t mind a fall. As the designtheir love-hate banter grows, but their chem- er ‘lehenga’-craving ‘kudi’ who turns into a istry is apparent. They are both different, yet girl who chooses substance over style, Alia very similar as people. Somewhere down the Bhatt is vibrant and fresh, and the highlight line , both Humpty and Kavya are soft hearted of the film. people.
Gaurav Pandey
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Preserving Doon’s Heritage
From writing a book about the heritage of Dehradun, to starting a cultural festival, Lokesh Ohri is doing his best to preserve the heritage and culture of Dehradun.
Lokesh Ohri was just another Doonite work- es and workshops in Indian folk and classical schools here. There are many children who ing in Kolkata as a marketing executive, till the arts, literature, crafts, talks, theatre, cinema come from outside. They spend five to eight time re realsied that how much he missed his and yoga.
years of their lives here but do not know much
hometown of Dehradun. Lokesh Ohri is also
about the city, hence he wanted to cater to
the author of the book called Been There Lohri has not only worked for promoting of art them too, with the help of the book. “I wanted and Doon That. He is also the founder of the and culture in Dehradun, he has also worked such students to enjoy the city more, and I mega cultural event called Virasat. Talking quite a lot to bring to light the people of the figured it out that this could be achieved by about the event, Ohri says, “I was a company hill states from the rural areas. He has done talking them for heritage walks. There are a executive back in Kolkata, and I used to miss a lot of research work and a number of doc- number of heritage sites in and around DehraDehradun a lot. When I came back to Dehra- umentation on the life and culture of the hill dun, which are of great historical significance, dun, I realised that Dehradun had undergone state of Uttrakhand, especially in the upper but not many people know about them. One a lot of changes. That is when I decided to Ganga region.
such site is the Sharmaron ki Haveli, which is
remain here and do something for Dehradun,”
in Raipur. It is a very old haveli, and I had done
said Ohri.
Lohri’s work took him to a lot of places in a lot of research on it and written about it in Uttrakhand. Lohri was also instrumental in my book. After I had written about the have-
“I wanted to do something for the city of Deh- creating a hill orchestra, wherein he used li, a few foreign tourists had approached me radun, without being all formal about it. Earlier the drummers who used to beat the drum and asked me if could show them the various the people of Dehradun were into art and cul- in some or the other ritual in various villages heritage sites around the city. That is when ture, but now it seems to be fading away, and across the state of Uttrakhand. He brought all the idea of heritage walks struck me.” only a handful of people who remain interest- these drummers together and formed the hill ed in art and culture,” added Ohri.
orchestra. “The idea to create the hill orches-
“The idea behind heritage walks is to develop
tra was to help people identify their history,” a sense of ownership. In order to raise the Come Diwali, Dehradun becomes lively alive. informed Ohri.
awareness among the government officials,
Virasat, the folk life and heritage festival brings
I decided to take most of the corporators
along with it, the vibrant, ethnic Kaleidoscope Talking about his book “Been There Doon around Dehradun for heritage walks. The apof India’s art and culture. The festival aims at That”, which documents the heritage of Deh- preciated this a lot and said it will be a good creating the perfect space, where the artist radun, Lohri says, “Dehradun has always idea if we could do the same thing for the and the patron can meet.
been close to my heart, and I always wanted tourists as well,” informed Ohri. to preserve the heritage. When I came back
The reason why Virasat was started was to from Kolkata, I saw that a lot had changed Ohri also expressed his concerns over the bring the people together and make them un- in Dehradun. People hardly knew anything way most of the canal of Dehradun has been derstand the significance of preserving one’s about Dehradun’s heritage, especially the covered. “When the canals were open, the culture. Another reason to start Virasat was to younger generation. I wanted to document climate of Dehradun was very pleasant, but provide livelihood for the rural people, where the heritage of Dehradun, and show it to ev- since the time the canals have been closed they showcase their talent in art. They also eryone, so that they realise the value preserv- up, the temperature of Doon has risen. Not come to sell their homemade products. Vira- i9ng one’s own culture.”
only was this, the canals of Dehradun also
sat is a cultural festival comprising all aspects
part of our heritage, which we haven’t taken
of Indian Culture Heritage. It is a week ling Ohri also said, that Dehradun is known for care of,” said Ohri. cultural festival, which includes performanc- its schools and that there are many boarding
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- BY JYOTI BAHRI Mind beyond judgment, watches and understands, is a big key to tarot reading. The forecast for the month of August is as per the stars of each month. It can vary as per the birth date. My tarot reading aims at providing the readers, a vision to a better state-of-mind, and a future worth the hard work. My cards personally do not answer in a yes or a no, but they help you to make better decision for yourself. Professionally clients who are industrialists, educationists, business-makers, students, homemakers, politicians and people from all around the globe.
Aries: March 21-April 20
Taurus: April 21-May 21
You are inventive, health is good, love life is rocking, and the family is well settled. There could be secret liaisons, temper, tantrums, jealousy, anger, hate, and possessiveness. You will have to cope with a lot of inner negativity. There is also
There is passion and energy in your life and at home. Lots of expenses and investment opportunities may come your way. There could also be new love.
depressing. Your pace is frenetic. Some new direction in your life will hold your hand to success. You will win the admiration of your peers. God is happy for you.
You are in a philanthropic mode. By the middle of the month, there will be peace and tranquility. The month will end with stability. God is helping you.
Lucky colour: shades of sky
Lucky colour: rainbow shades
Lucky dates: 1,6,10,11,15,16,20,21,24,25,28,29
Lucky dates: 3,4,7,9,22,23,26,27,30,31
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Gemini: May 21-June 23
Cancer: June 22- July 22
There is new energy powering you. Along with it is powerful intensity. This is a great time for commercial ventures, and all types of negotiations. Lots of lucky breaks are on the cards for personal growth. By the middle of the month there are sad
There is new love. There are also many expenses and big investments. There could be conflicts, altercations, arguments, disagreements, but you are back on solid ground by the middle of the month.
moments, which can lead you to depression, but do not worry, it will pass quickly. As the month ends, there is stability and you can earn big bucks. Your ventures will do well. Money and honey all ready to come, and you may fall in love. God is grateful
You roll up your sleeves and sign new deals. You will work long, had and true. You will be good with work, which involves precision. For all business people it is a favorable time. God is with you.
Lucky colour: shades of green
Lucky colour: reds
Lucky dates: 1,7,10,11,17,20,21,26,29,30
Lucky dates: 2,3,7,13,17,18,21,25,26,30,31.
Leo: July23- Aug 23
Libra: September 24- October 23
This fortnight sees you embark on new adventures. This is a wonderful time. Whatever you on now will lead to success. This is an important phase too. New vistas might open up almost magically.
Your month starts with a minor problem in communicating with others. There could also be some kind of misunderstanding. Your relationship is in a tizzy, thanks to mutual mistrust. This is the time for introspection. By mid-month, there will be
There could be international travel, love, powerful bonding, many new profitable associations and a general upswing in life. God is happy for you.
stability in your affairs. Your individuality stands out. Family life is smooth and children will bring joy. This period could signal the birth pangs of powerful growth cycle. God is holding your hand.
Lucky colour: earthy browns.
Lucky colour: shades of blue
Lucky dates: 1,6,19,12,15,16,20,22,24,25,28,29.
Lucky dates : 1,7,10,11,15,16,20,21,24,25,28,29.
Virgo: August 24-September 23
Scorpio: October 24- November 21
Your confidence is all time high. You may take a family holiday in exotic locales. You look to reinvent yourself and are attracted to spiritualism. There is soul searching. This is the time to make hay when the sun shines. Go for it! The hard times seem to be
The frontiers open up at work and you are crowned with success. You go after everything that you want in the material world, without caring about who is or what is in your path. This is an extremely productive and growth oriented month. There is friendship and
Lucky colour: shades of orange
Lucky colour: lime yellow
Lucky dates: 3,4,7,9,12,19,22,23,26,27,30,31
Lucky dates : 2,3,7,13,17,18,21,25,26,30,31
a thing of the past. There is money and I love honey, rewards of all kind, applause and awards. God smiles at you.
love, message journeys, bounding, spirituality. By the existing relationships. You share joy on higher consciousness. God will bless you.
Sagittarius: November 22- December 21
Aquarius (January 21- February 19)
You look for answers to profound questions about life. You seek out for gurus or god men the latest esoteric thought, and more meaning in life. There are maudlin moments. This phase is mixed, indeed even slow time; there could be joy and sorrow.
This is indeed a significant period. Lots of new ventures, a hectic social whirl, indulgence. You are looking at new frontiers and vistas.
Lucky colour: pure white
Lucky colour: off-white
Lucky dates: 1,6,10,11,16,20,21,24,25 ,28,29
Lucky dates: 1,7,10,11,15,16,29,21,24,25,28,29,
Mainly you will watch out relationships which are not working. There are financial gains. Right time for hopes, love relationship, promises to be made or for few new beginning. God is helping you.
There is new intensity as also a winners attitude
that has nestled in your bones. There could be a marriage in the family. Health needs to be taken care of. God is holding your hand.
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Capricorn: December 24- January 20
Pisces: February 20-March 20
There are lots of changes in your life. On the plus side, you may be throwing out junk, that could be great. You are normally strong independent and a leader, but in this phase you need the moral support of others and fellowship of kindred souls.
You might leave old pattern of working, and start a new way of working, which might help you in work place. You explore your new ideas that may fill you with awareness of sensitivity to others and their needs. You need to control your anger in all the areas of life. Love affairs can be source of tension.
You also look at philanthropy. There could be hidden tensions which might erupt suddenly. The work front consumes all your energy. You have worked too hard but by the end of the month all will be fine. God is helping you.
Lucky colour: pastel green Lucky dates: 1,6,19,12,15,16,20,22,24,25,28,29.
Time should be taken out for matters to solve, or new love affair can start. As the month ends, there are happy moments in family and with friends. You might leave old Pattern of working and starts new way of working which mite help you in work place. Family needs your attention. You need to control anger in all areas of life. Love affairs can be source of tension time should be taken out for matters to solve, or new love affaire can start. As month ends there are happy moments in family and friends. Lucky colour: earthy browns Lucky dates : 2,3,13,15,17,18,21,22,25,26,39,31