june - july 2017
Vol. 12
Exclusive Interview
Chef Ranveer Brar
Actor with an Action Plan Akshay Kumar
Moulded for Success Nilkamal Plastics
The Last Frontier Turtuk
Know Them
The PM’s Prime Men
Destined to Lead
Manasi Kirloskar
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june - july 2017 Vol. 12
Editor / Publisher
Director
Executive Director
Deputy Editor
Senior Associate Editor
Associate Editors
Atul Shah Khyati Shah Deepti Dedhia Nandini Sanan Shankar Abid Mohammed Vijay Rohit, Kaustubh Athavale
Columnists Ali Peter John, Megha Chitaliya, Nandita Derashri, Bejan Daruwalla Contributors
Palak Shah, Gita Viswanath, Heeral Trivedi, Ashesh Pandia, Arati Desai, Rahul Keshwani, Rashika Chauhan, Jigna Dutta, Rinky Kumar, Joe Alwarez, Sarah Hafeez
Special Music Columnist
Creative Consultants
Photographer
Marketing Consultant
Legal Advisor
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event report
Editor’s Note
Dear Readers, If the rain makes most Indian cities look even more chaotic and buildings more dilapidated than usual, guess what is the one thing that actually starts looking better? The greenery of course! With urban dust washed off the trees, they come into their own, and how! The monsoon is a great time to spare a thought towards increasing urban green cover. Whatever you plant has a ten-fold chance of taking root and sprouting in this season. So go ahead and visit your nearest nursery, take your kids along and let them help you choose a tree. Let them enjoy getting their knees and hands muddy while they plant it in the garden or neighbourhood. Not only will it give them something to do on a rainy afternoon, but it will be something of their own to nurture in the years to come. Just like the greens burst forth in the rains, so does inspiration, because this issue is filled with a whole lot of good stories that make for perfect rainy day reading. Read how young scion Manasi Kirloskar balances her business and creative sensibilities and of Akshay Kumar’s patriotic endeavours, of who’s who in the Prime Minister’s closest coterie or the backstory of those ubiquitous plastic Nilkamal chairs found everywhere. Look around, there’s bound to be one somewhere in your house. So, grab that chair, that cup of steaming tea and put up your feet while the rain gives you an excuse to do so...and Happy Reading!
Atul Shah Editor and Publisher
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20 Cover story DESTINED TO LEAD, FOLLOWING HER (HE)ART Executive Director & CEO of Kirloskar Systems Ltd is only one of the several directorial positions the 27 year old Manasi Kirloskar holds. Wearing this and other heavyweight titles lightly on her petite shoulders, the dreamy eyed but purposeful businesswoman gives a captivating insight into her life in an exclusive interview with Nandini Sanan Shankar
Contents
june - july 2017
58 T HE PRIME MINISTER’S PRIME MEN Palak Shah profiles the nine gems in the Indian Prime Minister’s chosen coterie of advisors. 70 Move over Swiss Alps, Hello Fijian Islands Sarah Hafeez on what is increasingly making Fiji an ideal, new hotspot for Indian filmmakers to shoot in...
FEATURES 16 T he actor with an action plan Ali Peter John writes about Akshay Kumar’s beginnings as a struggling actor and his journey to the present where everything the Padma Shri recipient touches turns to gold.
MUSICAL NOTES
54
26 F rom Nigeria, With Love Joe Alvarez tells us what the world’s second largest film industry is all about. 30 Hollywood Calling Rinky Kumar outlines five ‘outsider’ film directors with an impressive Hollywood career trajectory. 36 A Fine Balance Rashika Chauhan gives us her unique perspective on how to make the best of single parenting.
34 R .D. BURMAN – AHEAD OF HIS TIMES Stalwarts of the music industry speak to Sujata Majumdar of their favorite songs from their most beloved composer of all time, the avant garde RD Burman
INTERVIEWS
70
46 “ Writing is a Responsibility” Chandigarh based author Preeti Singh shares her life and ideas in an exclusive interview with Nandita Derashri. 74 “ food is feelings transferred onto the plate...” Abid Mohammed talks to Chef Ranveer Brar to find out how he found his true calling
38 TV Out. Digital In. Ashesh Pandia writes on the dynamic changes in the entertainment industry where the Internet now presents unforeseen options for all.
MADE IN INDIA
42 A LEGEND IN MORE WAYS THAN ONE Rahul Keshwani on the legend, Sir Frank Worrell who happens to be the only cricketer to be seen on currency notes
50 It’s Plastic and Fantastic Heeral Trivedi visits the Nilkamal Plastics headquarters in Mumbai to know more about the home-grown brand which is today the world’s largest manufacturer of moulded furniture
54 A NOBLE INITIATIVE Nandini Sanan Shankar speaks to Manisha Lad, Founder, Akhil Autism Foundation, about the work they do in India.
FASHION
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16
64 recreating the magic of a bygone era
10
Presenting Bagicha, an exclusive collection from RAR Studio by Ritesh Ankit Rishav
COLUMNS 78 l egal eagle Megha Chitaliya sheds light on the marital rights of women belonging to different religions
travel 60 T URTUK – THE LAST FRONTIER Opened to tourists only in 2010, Turtuk in Leh is one of the three Balti villages in India. Arati Desai is mesmerised by her stay there, amid apricot and apple orchards
46
82 Paradise found Gita Viswanath brings us a first-hand account of the bewitching beaches and awe-inspiring islands in Thailand
REGULARS
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10 S HOPPING Shopping trends this season 14 A ROUND TOWN ‘Demonetization’ by Althea Krishna & Indian Bling in Aussie Style 68 style file Adhuna Bhabani, founder and creative director of the famed celebrity-salon BBLUNT shares some of her valuable hair-care tips. 81 book review The Sympathizer reviewed by Usha Chadda
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86 R ECIPES Chef Ranveer Brar shares his recipes with Feelings Magazine 88 FORTUNE TELLER Your horoscope for August 2017 by Bejan Daruwala 90 BOLD WORDS #thetweettalk
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letters to the editor
Feelings, your stories are very different from what I have been reading until now in most other magazines. It’s difficult to say what genre they fall in but suffice to say they make for very interesting reading!
reading ‘Travelogue’. This time too, you covered Shimoga and its attractions in a very informative way. Wish you would increase the number of articles on Travel...
Brajesh Kapadia, NJ, USA Narendra Raval’s journey to becoming one of the richest men in Africa is very inspiring, especially in light of all the social work he is doing. Goes to show that where there’s a will, there’s a way. I was also amazed
THE IMMIGRANT DIARY
AFRICA’S MAN OF STEEL From an austere life of priesthood to featuring on the Africa Forbes list as the 46th richest man in the continent, Narendra Raval’s journey is as inspiring as it is incredible. Nandini S Shankar spoke to the philanthropic industrialist 54 | FEELINGS
Nazia Ahmed, Gandhinagar
APRIL - MAY 2017
to read about Viral Dalal and his experience of the Gujarat earthquake - what a survivor!
THE ARTS
KEEP CALM
Neelam Gulati, Kenya
AND
ZENTANGLE ON… As an amateur artist, I loved reading Heeral Trivedi’s ‘Keep Calm and Zentangle On’. Art has been proved to be therapeutic but not many know how to go about it. The article was easy to understand even for those who don’t know anything about art, so good work, Feelings.
With adult colouring books and classes on Zentagling becoming a trend, Heeral Trivedi explores the de-stressing nature of art forms that can be easily adopted, even by novices.
W
e are all seekers at different levels. After all, without a purpose there is no hope. And yet sometimes there is a vacuum which cannot be explained. Art is that creative outlet, which can help fill that void. Psychologists have always pressed upon the meditative and therapeutic quality of the process of making art. They say it allows you to follow your intuition, introspect and find happiness in creation. It is this thought which led to the making of Mandala pictures of the Buddhists, Zen, Tao and other oriental philosophies. On World Health Day this year, the focus is on the importance of mental health and fighting depression. Among the many other suggestions, social interaction
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coupled with creative activities is being recommended as the best remedial course for this new age disease. Art therapy has become a serious area of study, being used to improve a person’s physical, mental and emotional well-being. The creativity involved in expressing one’s self artistically can help people to resolve issues as well as develop and manage their behavior and feelings, reduce stress, and improve selfesteem and awareness. Zentangle is one such art form which is a formalized official prescription for creative therapy. It has become an international phenomenon that now has applications in stress reduction, education, therapy and even motivational training.
APRIL - MAY 2017
TRAVELOGUE
Shikha Shah, Mumbai
I love traveling at every opportunity I get and so always look forward to
SHIMOGA A Town By The River Gita Viswanath is enthralled by her visit to the lush green trekking paradise and legendary pilgrims’ destination, which is also home to India’s second highest waterfall
H
ugging the banks of the Tunga River is a bustling town called Shimoga, renamed Shivamogga in the Malnad region of Karnataka. Legend has it that Lord Shiva drank water from the Tunga River in a Sihi-Mogge which is the word for "sweet pot". Malnad means land
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8 | Feelings
APRIL - MAY 2017
june - july 2017
of hills and true to its name, Shimoga surrounded as it is by hills makes a pretty picture. With its lush vegetation comprising arecanut, coconut groves, paddy fields as far as the eye can see and teak and medicinal plants, the town is green for most part of the year. However, Sameer, our driver filled with pride
WRITE TO US
Do write in and tell us what you think, at editorial@feelingsmultimedia.com Letters should include the writer’s full name, address and phone number. Letters may be edited for clarity and space
shopping
BLING BLING
Jewellery to set your heart racing
Kundan Antique fringe tassel earrings from Aarah POR, For more information: info@aarah.co
With a splendid blend of smoky quartz and topaz gemstones intricately studded in silver with gold polish, this bold & edgy collection by Velvetcase.com is sure to make heads turn. POR, Available at Velvetcase.com
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If you are all for a pop of colour, pick the blue and green gemstone jhumkis which are sure to add a vibrant touch in the monsoon. From the stunning Peacock Mayura Collection by AhilyaJewels.com
Set in 18k gold and pure platinum, the Mandala collection, inspired by the circular Mandala forms, comes alive through the lustrous and carefully thought out patterns. POR, Available at www.orra.co.in
These 18k gold designs are an ode to the beautiful trees of the forest with artistic patterns of wood grains, exquisitely entangled roots, and curvaceous leaves. Aaranya collection by Carat lane POR, Available at www.CaratLane.com
Gold plated quilling style earrings from the MiRA collection by Radhika Jain. POR, Available at Avantika Apartment - 2nd Floor, 140-B Sarat Bose Road, Kolkata Exquisite chains curated in 22k yellow gold, with imperial hues of beads chiseled out of semi-precious stones and south sea pearls adding to the traditional essence. POR, Available www.manubhai.in Earrings embellished with kundan, pearls and meenakari set in 22K gold from PNG Jewellers. POR, Available at all leading stores
This exquisite cuff, with the purity of pearls surrounded with diamond baguettes and encased in yellow gold with elegant floral carvings, is the latest from Navrathan Jewellers’ The Bangle and Cuff Collection. POR, Available at Navrathan Jewellers stores
This ring from the Emerald Collection of Navrathan Jewellers is a perfect blend of traditional and contemporary fusion design, bound to steal the show with its presence.
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shopping
home decor Zingy Surroundings
Falana Dhimkana’s String Art by Buzzaria Dukaan POR , Available at www. facebook.com/ Buzzaria
The pastel and tropical Modern Classics Wallpaper collection from Zynna comprises of beautiful blue tones that will compliment your walls. POR , Available at all leading stores
The Poetic Garden collection is a blend of European and Mughal taste. The collection consists of a classic melange of tea pots, snack bowls, quarter plates and mugs with a tray. This exquisite range replicates the beauty of tropical gardens through traditional cobalt pigment on porcelain. POR , Available at Arttd’inox stores
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june - july 2017
An ideal companion for stylish trendsetters who like to demonstrate their individuality and their passion for beautiful things, the LAMY Petrol is an ideal accessory POR , Available at www. williampenn.net
Brighten up your home this monsoon with Kansai Nerolac Paints. POR , Available at all leading stores
The SecridCardslide by William Penn incorporates an ultra-thin aluminium card protector, which protects bank cards and credit cards, not only against bending and breaking, but also against wireless leaking of information. POR , Available at www.williampenn.net
The Raindance Showerpipe collection from Hansgrohe, POR , Available at all leading stores
The Great Eastern Home presents its exclusive Pewter Collection that includes wine glasses, candle stands, salad bowls, decanters, silverware etc. POR , Available at The Great Eastern Home stores
‘India’ inspired products, ranging from lifestyle and art to quirky gifts and collectibles by Kanika Kush for Buzzaria Dukaan, POR , Available at www.facebook. com/Buzzaria
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event
“Demonetization” By Althea Krishna H
yderabad based designer Althea Krishna presented her remarkable collection “Demonetization” at Hyderabad Sailing Week on 8th July at the fashion show “Regatta Ball”. As a part of the ball, the sailors themselves did the Fashion Show at Secunderabad Sailing Club where the girls were clothed by designer Althea Krishna. This quirky line of clothes has been created using the prints of old 500 and 1000 rupee notes and has created a buzz at the Lakme fashion week S|R 2017 Althea’s demonetization collection has been created using 60% organic cotton weft and 40% Tussar silk warp for the sheen. The fine silhouettes depicted in vintage style are ideal for every age group. Designer Althea says “As a civilian I loved doing this show as it gave me an opportunity to work with sailors. It ignites in me a feeling of patriotism and is a small
14 | Feelings
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tribute from my side since the Indian navy is doing so much for our nation. I thought it would be a great idea to contribute from my side as my collection is wearable and inspired from the game-changing national move of demonetizing INR 500 and 1000 notes.” Althea has been selling designer clothing under her label “Althea Krishna” since 2012. Having acquired a fashion diploma from Hamstech Institute, Hyderabad, she has created a niche for herself in fusion, contemporary and bridal wear using exquisite Indian embroidery like Gota, Mirror, Zardosi, Bead and Thread work. The finesse of her creations comes from the quality of materials used, and the right choice of fabrics weaved together in a complementing color combination, bringing out the best in the woman wearing it. Althea is quickly becoming popular for her timeless fashion collections for pret, bridal wear, and couture wear. Her collection is available online and also at her flagship store in Banjara Hills, Hyderabad. n
PM meets fans in Delhi ‘T
here is no tool for development more effective than the empowerment of women’. With this thought in mind women from the ‘Narendra Modi fan club’ interacted with the Prime Minister in New Delhi recently. The PM discussed projects related to women’s empowerment in Gujarat with his fans. n
Indian Bling In Aussie Style T he dynamic couture label ‘Vitamin’ by Sonalika Pradhan (wife of actor Vishwajeet Pradhan) showcased its AFL (Australian Football League) themed effervescent collection and launched its online store and website in Melbourne recently.
The launch was felicitated by exVictorian Premier Hon Ted Baillieu. “When it comes to Australian Football, we have this culture that has been there for more than 100 years - the club colors. Everybody had everything in club colors and Sonalika has done a beautiful job in developing a fashion line with it. It will make going to footy more fun. I bet there are young Indian girls playing footy in AFL Womens’ and this collection further supports the game’s multi-culture,” congratulated Ted. Rashi Kapoor, President, Australia Indian Business Council and Victoria
and Vitamin’s brand ambassador was the show stopper for the night, embellished in RFC colors. She also announced Sonalika as the Head for the Fashion Chapter of AIBC Victoria, further strengthening Sonalika’s contribution to the multi-cultural taste of the Australian fashion industry. Not only was the night special because an exclusive collection got underway, but Vitamin also revealed their new offering - a unique ensemble for men. Yes, you read it right. So now the men can complement their ladies equally on any occasion, adorned in impeccable Vitamin (or shall we say VitaMen)! Also celebrated the same night was creative director Sonalika Pradhan’s birthday with her children Dhruvika Pradhan and Ojasvi Pradhan. The evening concluded with Vitamin Style Awards presented to the guests in categories like Best Female & Male Outfit, Best Hair & Make up and Best Stylish Couple. The Australian Football League themed collection is now available on the website www.vitaminbysonalika.com. n
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feature
AKSHAY KUMAR
The actor with an action plan Ali Peter John writes about Akshay Kumar’s beginnings as a struggling actor and his journey to the present where everything the Padma Shri recipient touches turns to gold
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A
kshay Kumar’s success at the box-office seems as effortless as the stunts he is known for. For most other stars, even the ones at the top, a box-office hit is as unpredictable as the weather, but that Akshay’s films will resonate with the audience each time, is a given. Perhaps it is because he is a star without the all the starry trappings. He comes closest to being a real son-of-the-soil, a big-dreamer and hard-worker. It is probably this down-to-earth vibe that comes through when he spouts earnest dialogues in patriotic films or even silly ones in the many comedies he has done. In short, he seems more real, in spite of being part of the glittery Bollywood firmament. From the very beginning, Akshay Kumar (Born Rajeev Bhatia) has retained his real-world, middle-class sensibilities and human-ness. Being human way before it became a buzz-word, Akshay Kumar’s humanity reflects in everything he does – be it the films he chooses or the social causes and brands he chooses to support or endorse. TAKING THE RISK OUT OF RISKY WORK Akshay has always maintained that he is a “stuntman first and then an actor”. He is of the strong conviction that fighters and action directors were the ones who had played a vital role in making him the action star he was. He was in no doubt of the lifethreatening risks stuntmen and women took on a daily basis, so it was time they and their families got what was rightfully theirs. It was his brainchild to propose a unique insurance scheme for Bollywood’s stunt workers. The scheme would give stunt work its due appreciation, provide stunt worker’s families some reassurance for the hard, dangerous work they
did, and would also motivate stuntmen to be more passionate about their work, which would help films reach new levels of finesse. Today, the scheme covers 380 stuntmen and women between 18 and 55 years of age. But that was just the first step. Akshay has also been responsible in talking to all those who give away awards every year and have been overlooking and “neglecting” the men behind all the action to make sure that they include them in their list of awards. His initiative was taken seriously last year and the first ever award for the best stunt director went to the nationally and internationally known action co-ordinator Sham Kaushal (Father of versatile young actor Vicky Kaushal). This initiative taken by Akshay is going to be followed by many other institutions associated with awards, an initiative for which every man and woman involved in action is grateful to their “Akkibhai”. ALTERING REALITY WITH HIS FILMS As a film star, Akshay has never been part of any of the so-called camps in Bollywood. The same holds for his political beliefs. Steering clear from politics, he would much rather focus his energies on making his work work for the country. He admires Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his schemes for the betterment of the people and is doing everything possible from his side, to draw attention to them via his films. One of his new upcoming films is called “Toilet Ek Prem Katha” which is a satirical comedy that supports the Prime Minister’s “Swachh Bharat Abhiyan”, a governmental campaign to improve the sanitation conditions in India, with emphasis on the eradication
Photo by Daboo Ratnani
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feature
of defecation in public areas, especially in the rural areas of India. He has extended his hand of help to any of the other initiatives of the Prime Minister which can change lives for the better. Interestingly, the Prime Minister himself is a great admirer of Akshay, and misses no opportunity to applaud and admire the work he has been doing for the people of India who are very close to his heart. The Prime Minister is known to take time off from his hectic schedule to spend time with Akshay and they have formed a kind of mutual admiration society with one common goal - a better India with better people living a better life. STANDING UP FOR OUR JAWANS Akshay Kumar also hit the headlines with his decision to come out in support of the families of soldiers who have lost their lives in keeping our borders safe. The actor, who recently won his first National Award for his outstanding and realistic performance in “Airlift” explained, 'I feel there are many citizens who would like to help our soldiers. Imagine, in today’s Like all middle class sons whose parents did not belong to a film family, Akshay Bhatia also found it very difficult to enter the huge gates of the best studios in Mumbai. Struck by an unusual idea, the youngster decided to join the renowned glamour photographer, Jayesh Seth. His job was to hold the lights while Jayesh shot pictures of some of the most popular and successful stars. Akshay’s ambition however kept driving him on and Jayesh encouraged him by shooting an exclusive photo session with him, free of cost. Little did Akshay know that it was the first step towards fulfilling his acting ambitions. He had given up a lucrative job as a chef in an exotic country in the Far East. It was with this portfolio put together by the influential Jayesh that Akshay started doing the rounds of studios and film production offices, but no one showed any enthusiasm or interest in him. What did happen was that he exhausted all the photographs he had as everyone asked him to “leave your photographs and number with us and we will call you.” But those calls never came and Akshay was left with the last few photographs…
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digital world, one just needs a mobile phone to send money somewhere. If a slain jawan's family gets Rs. 15 lakh, a lot of good things can be done for them. Though the loss of a life is a big one, we at least owe them this much.' With ideologies such as these, Akshay is seeking to awaken the patriot in every citizen of the country. He says this is only one of the many schemes being put into practice and he has many other schemes for the soldiers of India who he says ‘are the only real stars and superstars. We are only paper stars who owe our lives, the lives of our families to these brave soldiers who don’t think twice before laying down their lives for us.” Today, as he stands tall and proud on the basis of his professional achievements, even being conferred a Padma Shri for his contribution to the industry, Akshay Kumar is playing a role that is greater than any he has played. And one that will leave a lasting legacy for years to come. Yes, dreams do have a way of coming true. Just not in the way this humble ex-chef and ex-martial arts instructor must have imagined. n
One evening, he was walking alone in the compound of the now extinct Natraj Studios (where biggies like Ramanand Sagar, Shakti Samanta, F. C Mehra, Atma Ram (the younger brother of Guru Dutt) and Pramod Chakravarty had their offices). Most offices had closed for the day and there were no shootings happening in the otherwise very busy studio. He was walking around the office of Pramod Chakravarty, when this writer met him and inquired what he wanted. He asked me if Pramod Chakravarty was in his office as he wanted to leave some of his photographs with him. From his looks and the desperation on his face, I knew he was a struggling actor. I knew Chakravarty very well and I also knew his staff. I asked the young man to leave the photographs with Chakravarty’s right hand man, “Dada” and assured him that Chakravarty would definitely see his photographs even though he had not made a film for six years. The next morning Chakravarty saw the photographs and immediately put them into his briefcase. That same evening he called his entire family and domestic staff and showed them the
june - july 2017
photographs of the young man and asked them if he could make it as a hero. They were all unanimous in saying that he was far better than Kumar Gaurav and Sunny Deol who were the rising stars and were charging heavily that time. Chakravarty sent for Akshay Kumar Bhatia and after talking to him for fifteen minutes, he signed him as the leading man of his new film, without even thinking about what film he was planning to make. Chakravarty then cast Karishma Kapoor, the daughter of his friends, Randhir Kapoor and Babita who had worked as heroine in his film “Tumse Accha Kaun Haai”. Chakravarty ultimately made “Deedar”, but the only good thing about the film was the action sequences performed by the new hero, now called Akshay Kumar. Akshay was soon flooded with offers to play action heroes in B-Grade films and he made the best of them. Recognition as a good actor only came his way when Yash Raj Films signed him as one of the leading men in a film called “Yeh Dillagi” with Saif Ali Khan and Kajol as his co-stars. It was a new beginning for Akshay the star-actor.
COVER STORY
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DESTINED TO LEAD, FOLLOWING HER (HE)ART Executive Director & CEO of Kirloskar Systems Ltd is only one of the several directorial positions the 27 year old Manasi Kirloskar holds. Wearing this and other heavyweight titles lightly on her petite shoulders, the dreamy eyed but purposeful businesswoman gives a captivating insight into her life in an exclusive interview with Nandini Sanan Shankar
T
he first thing you notice about Manasi Kirloskar, daughter of Vikram and Geetanjali Kirloskar and sole heir apparent to her father’s business empire, is how comfortable she is in her own skin. Carrying forward a 150-year legacy comes naturally to this design school graduate who is also a passionate artist. With a flair for fashion, love for high adventure and an impulsive streak, this highly motivated, gen-next business icon is definitely one to watch out for!
Tell us a bit about your family, Manasi. Give us an insight into a typical dinner table conversation between you and your parents. Also, what are your most distinct memories from your early years? It’s a family of 3 - Mom, Dad and I, but we have a huge extended family. Our typical family get togethers are 100 people! When we are all together there's a lot of laughter, teasing and narrating humorous events that happened in my parents’ childhood. When
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COVER STORY
“I work out in the gym every single day and that is a huge stress buster as I feel good when I’m fit and healthy.”
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it was just my parents and I (and my dogs!) we would discuss their work, my school, experiences, art and history. There was always something new to learn with silly laughter being the constant. I remember celebrating my great grandfather’s (S.L Kirloskar) 90th birthday. It was a huge family party (200 plus family members at the very least) and a whole lot of fun. It was a day long affair with games such as 3 legged races which I remember most vividly. It was amazing to see my grandfather participate in all this fun at his age. He wore a magnificent smile which I will never forget. Who are your icons in the Business world, in the Art world and in the Fashion world? In the business world I have many - Kiran Mazumdar Shaw, the Bajaj family, Anand Mahindra, Azim Premji and Cyrus Poonawalla to name a few. Walt Disney is also someone I am greatly inspired by. As for art, I have always loved Vincent Van Gogh as I relate to his paintings. I love Jean Michelle Basquiat and Cy Twombly. I also thoroughly enjoy Indian Classical music. Watching Zakir Hussain, Anushka and Ravi Shankar live in performance took my breath away. In fashion it has to be Coco Chanel. She boldly and completely changed the image of a woman and was the most successful woman in business at her time. Her life had a very rough start but she achieved great success creating an important, social impact. Where did you get your adventurous streak from? How did it begin? My father loves to swim and he taught me how to swim at the age of 6. My Mom loves the outdoors and hiking. I would swim deep into the sea with my Dad and hike up mountains (Mt. Kanchenjunga) with both Mom and Dad. This exposed me to both extremes of nature and I loved it. Now I cannot do without it! We are quite an outdoorsy family. You seem like a mature but free-spirit, albeit one who has great responsibility thrust upon her - and you seem to have
accepted that. Did you have to struggle to reach this acceptance? Perhaps you discussed your options with people you look up to before reaching this state of mind? I always wanted to join the family business as a child. I knew it was my destiny. After graduating from college, however, I did contemplate. My love for the Arts held onto me strongly but after many discussions with my parents I realized that I had to give my responsibilities a shot before discarding them. Today, I have found the right balance between responsibilities towards the businesses and pursuing my own dreams. It is not easy - but because I am motivated and always inspired, it all comes together really well. I am enjoying it. Caring With Colour is your non-profit initiative where Art and Social work come together. Tell us what exactly this organisation does and how it functions. ‘Caring with Colour- A Manasi Kirloskar Initiative’ is a social impact start-up that I founded 3 months ago. We seek to create wholesome young minds through a reformed education paradigm, rooted in experience and discovery. We will be working with Government Schools as 85-90% of the population attend these schools. The idea is to use the Arts (Visual, Music, Movement, Performance) and hands-on activity kits together with technology to create pedagogy that will improve learning outcomes. It is time to change the system of education from rote learning to a constructivist approach which will help students relate concepts to real life problems. Where do you draw your strength from when you're low? Are you a spiritual person? I work out in the gym every single day and that is a huge stress buster as I feel good when I’m fit and healthy. I draw strength from nature. Hiking and diving always rejuvenate. You have had a privileged upbringing and background. What has been the hardest thing you've done up until now?
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COVER STORY
“People will always have opinions. I listen to them carefully and finally do whatever I think is best for myself.�
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I am very privileged and my hardships are no patch on the kind of real- world hardships people go through. All obstacles I face are privileges.
an obsession. We start to obsess over it because it’s the only realm that we can control.
Have you ever taken advantage of your surname to get something? Yes, in business. The Kirloskar legacy has created 130 years of trust and respect. When people from various institutions, whom I seek to work with, see my last name - they usually are happy to meet me. I can see they value that above anything else.
You have many inherent strengths, from your creativity to your wellorganized nature. What do you think are your weaknesses, ones that you may be consciously trying to improve upon? There are a lot of things I want to do, to achieve. Sometimes I think I spread myself too thin. I need to learn how to pace myself better - which I am working on consciously.
What is it that you most look forward to when you wake up every morning? Facing new challenges of a new day. What is your one secret indulgence? Binge watching TV shows! Were you ever hinted at by your family or friends that you should do an MBA rather than Fine Arts? Not by my parents as they have always encouraged me to pursue my dreams. Others, yes, have not just hinted but straight up asked me! People will always have opinions. I listen to them carefully and finally do whatever I think is best for myself. The Kirloskar family is media shy. However you are now media's blue eyed girl and are changing stereotypes. Tell us more about it Our family has always enjoyed their privacy. With every generation there comes change. As a fifth generation, I am that change and it's important to be relevant for sustainability. I want to create my own journey and my own legacy. I want to reach out to like-minded people to strengthen and spread my cause. Media is a great platform to reach out to people. What is your take on the obsession with social media nowadays? Social media is a good thing - it has given every single person a voice and a platform to be heard which I think is very important. A lot of social issues which were once tabooed are enforced through this medium. It definitely is ‘bad’ when it starts to become
Do you like to read? If yes, then what kind of books? What are you currently reading? I do enjoy reading a lot. I’m attracted to Hindu fictional mythology, ‘Palace of Illusions’ by Chitra Divakaruni for instance. I also like to read books about Art. I am currently reading an interesting book about Architecture. You have studied in the US. What are your views on the Trump government? Well my friends in the U.S are not happy with him. My opinion is from India’s point of view. I am happy if he’s good for our economy. Now a tough question - given a choice, would you rather be on the shop floor, sorting out logistical issues or painting in an artists' retreat somewhere? That’s easy for me! People don’t realize that it takes a lot of creativity to design a machine or a factory - this is something my father once told me. For me, a car is a sculpture that transports people from one place to another, while creating memories during the course of the ride. Therefore the workplace feeds my creative sensibility perfectly. Lastly, you have a legacy to carry forward and no doubt you will add your touch to it. What is Manasi Kirloskar likely to be remembered for? For touching hearts and contributing to the betterment of society. n
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From Nigeria,
With Love
Few know that the West African nation is home to the world’s second largest film industry, Nollywood. Joe Alvarez tells us what the behemoth is all about
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In 1992, in Nigeria, an electronics salesman, Kenneth Nnebue, shot a straight-to-video movie in one month, on a budget of just $12,000. The film, titled, Living in Bondage sold more than a million copies, mostly by street vendors, and Nollywood was born. By 2009, Nollywood had overtaken Hollywood as the world’s second largest movie industry by numbers, right behind our very own Bollywood. In 2014, the Nigerian government declared that Nollywood is a $3.3 billion industry, which produced 1844 movies in 2013 alone. Earlier this year, US powerhouse Netflix signed a deal with Nollywood producer Kunle Afolyan for distribution of his latest film, October 1. 10. Nollywood titles are already on Netflix, which has also bought the movie rights of the Nigerian novel Beasts of No Nation, which will star Idris Elba. Many believe that the global reach of African films will be led by video on demand (VOD) platforms and productions from Nigeria - the continent’s biggest economy and most populous nation. Nollywood now uses innovative forms of financing where bigger production houses and studios have started backing some of its films. In its nascent years though, movie theatres were a scarcity in Nigeria. Despite a lack of funds and experience, self-made directors began by using commercial video cameras to shoot their movies and sold them on formats for home viewing. Even though this resulted in movies with low production value, the fresh and original stories instantly made them a hit.
W
e know Hollywood (American), Bollywood (Hindi) and Tollywood (Telugu), but what’s Nollywood? Not known to many, the sobriquet is used to describe the Nigerian film industry that has over the years spread like wildfire along the coast of Africa, to Europe and surprisingly even Asia. Nigeria produces roughly 1,000 films on average per year. Majority are of poor quality, made on very low budgets and in a very short time but their production has a big impact on people in Nigeria and in spreading the industry’s influence across the continent.
Production houses in Nigeria started over fifty years ago with the likes of Latola Films (1962) and Calpeny Nigeria Ltd dominating the landscape. The latter produced the first Nigerian film, Kongi’s Harvest, which is based on a play written by Wole Sonyika. Around 1980, most movies produced in Nigeria were either short films or taken from a book. A major problem was lack of resources and inadequate equipment. Despite all the roadblocks, however the Nigerian film industry not only survived but thrived. Men like Kenneth Okonkwo, Kanayo O Kanayo and Bod-Manuel Odogwu are some of the big names in the acting department of Nollywood. They starred in some of
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the earliest known Nigerian home video films such as Living in Bondage. In those days, films were shot on a VHS camera and edited in television studios using VCR machines. In 2013, Okonkwo spoke to dcworldnews.com about his early acting days. He said, “I had a flair for acting from childhood. This prompted me to join the dramatic clubs in primary and secondary schools. During my NYSC, in our orientation camp, I was the actor who opened the acting stage with a song – Old Pirates (Redemption Song) by Bob Marley. After my Youth service, I went for auditions in Zeb Ejiro’s Production in Lagos, and my performance prompted them to create the role of Captain John Mark for me in their soap opera Ripples. I acted alongside their best stars then. From there I was invited to act in Living in Bondage. The rest as they say is history.” Several other people were instrumental in making Nollywood what it is today including Ola Balogun, Eddie Ugbomah, late Hurbert Ogunde, Adeyemi Afolayan a.k.a Ade Love (Kunle Afolayan’s father), Ladi Ladebo, Moses Adejumo, Adebayo Salami and Afolabi Adesanya. These men took their work beyond the stage
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and delved into movie production using the Celluloid format as far back as 1970. They were actually the first Nigerian film-makers, although their movies never made it big. They made movies like Kongi’s Harvest (1971), Bull Frog In The Sun (1974), Bisi Daughter Of The River (1977), Jaiyesimi (1980), Cry Freedom (1981) and many other movies in the seventies and eighties. Apart from Living In Bondage, Circle Of Doom and Glamour Girls were other movies of the early nineties that made a mark.
On an average, Nollywood makes a movie in about two to three weeks and about 50,000 copies are sold both in Nigeria and among the diaspora.
The Nollywood that we know today had its expansion and influx of smart young actors and actresses in the early part of the twentieth millennium. The likes of Genevieve Nnaji, Richard Mofe Damijo, and Stella Damascus shot to limelight during this phase. Then there were men such as Nkem Owoh, whose comedies gained recognition in other parts of the world. On the other hand, Pete Edochie, Enebeli Elebeuwa, Peter Bunor, Alex Usifo, Klint da Drunk, saint Obi, Olu Jacobs, as well as Liz Benson also made some memorable movies. These days every role interpreter in Nollywood is under an umbrella body - AGN (Actors Guild of Nigeria) often headed by a president unanimously chosen by
the group in an election. The AMAA (African Movie Academy Award) award is the most prestigious award in Nollywood, showcasing and rewarding the best talents in Nigeria and Africa as a whole. The AMAA was created in 2005 and has since become the most coveted event in African. Nigerian movies are collections of different genres and themes such as romance, revenge, betrayal, love, hatred, ritual, politics or a blend of two or more. On an average, Nollywood makes a movie in about two to three weeks and about 50,000 copies are sold both in Nigeria and among the diaspora. Today, the film industry is the largest employer after agriculture and makes up 5% of Nigeria’s GDP. n
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Hollywood
Calling
Over the last few decades, some filmmakers who initially made their mark in world cinema, forayed into Hollywood and ended up delivering the biggest box office hits, carving a permanent niche for themselves in the industry’s hall of fame. Rinky Kumar brings us five such ‘outsider’ directors with an impressive career trajectory. Alejandro González Iñárritu If Alejandro González Iñárritu would not have been a filmmaker, he would have been a musician. The award-winning director has stated in many interviews that he believes music has had a bigger influence on him as an artiste than cinema. He started out as a radio host at a Mexican radio station that mainly played rock and eclectic music. Within a span of four years, he became the director of the station and interviewed rock stars and transmitted live concerts. While composing music for six Mexican feature films, he was introduced to the world of cinema and gradually veered towards writing, producing and directing short films, advertisements and tele films. He hit the big league in 1999 when his debut feature film Amores Perros premiered at the Cannes Film Festival and went on to be nominated for the Best Foreign Film category at the Academy Awards. He followed it up with 21 Grams, starring Benicio del Toro, Naomi Watts and Sean Penn, and Babel,
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“My cinema is an extension of myself. A sort of life-testimony of my vital experiences, with my few virtues and my numerous limitations.”
featuring Brad Pitt and Cate Blanchett. The Javier Bardem-starrer Biutiful earned him second nomination for the Best Foreign Language Film at the Oscars. He finally struck gold in 2015 when he won the Academy Award for Best Director, Best Original Screenplay, and Best Picture for Birdman or (The Unexpected Virtue of Ignorance) that featured Michael Keaton, Naomi Watts, Edward Norton, Emma Stone and Zach Galifianakis. The following year, he again won the Academy Award for Best Director for the Leonado Di Caprio-starrer The Revenant making him only the third director to win back-to-back Academy Awards. The former radio jockey-turnedad filmmaker-turned director is known for creating nuanced characters battling their inner conflicts. The 53-year-old has been praised for extracting noteworthy performances from his actors and depicting the eradication of moral values in today’s society through his adept storytelling. Alfonso Cuaron From an early age, Alfonso Cuarón Orozco yearned to be either a film director or an astronaut. He decided that filmmaking was his true calling when he received a camera on his 12th birthday. Thereafter, he started filming everything he saw. He would often sneak away from school to watch movies. His dreams hit a roadblock though when he was expelled from university after he had co-directed an English short film with two of his friends. He started working in a museum but destiny had other plans for him and he soon got an offer to work as a cable person in a Mexican political drama, La Víspera (1982). With his foot in door, Alfonso was soon working as an assistant director in several films and television serials. In 1991, he decided that he would direct his first independent venture titled Sólo con tu pareja (Love in the time of Hysteria). However, the film ran into trouble with I.M.C.I.N.E. (Instituto Mexicano de Cinematografia), which had backed it, but thankfully, it was a huge success in various film festivals across the world. After he was invited by Sydney Pollack to direct
“The only reason you make a movie is not to do a good or a bad movie, it's just to see what you learn for the next one.” movies in Hollywood, the filmmaker helmed A Little Princess (1995) which received two Oscar nominations. He followed it up with an adaptation of Charles Dickens’ classic Great Expectations (1998). In 2004, his Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban, the third film in the Harry Potter series, proved to be the greatest box office success of his career.Two years later, his futuristic film Children of Men (2006) with Clive Owen, Julianne Moore and Michael Caine premiered at the Venice Film Festival and was nominated for three Academy Awards. The 55-year-old created history when his space thriller Gravity (2013), starring Sandra Bullock, won as many as seven Academy Awards and he became the first Mexican-born filmmaker to win the Oscar for Best Director. Alfonso’s movies are technically sound and he is known for his deft camera work, digitally blended shots and usage of wide camera angles Guillermo del Toro Guillermo del Toro developed an interest in filmmaking in his early teens. Later, he learned about makeup and effects from the legendary Dick Smith (The Exorcist (1973) and worked on making his own short films. At the age of 21, he produced
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Guillermo is one of the few versatile filmmakers who has directed movies from varied genres namely dark fantasy pieces, gothic horror movies and superhero projects. The 52-year-old’s movies are known for their poetic and visual beauty and for featuring human beings in extraordinary circumstances. Guillermo, along with fellow Mexican directors Alfonso Cuarón and Alejandro González Iñárritu are known as the ‘The Three Amigos of Cinema. They are the top three Mexican filmmakers who have made it big in Hollywood.
“When you have the intuition that there is something out there, which is out of reach in the physical world, art and religion are the only means to get to it.” his first feature, Dona Herlinda and Her Son (1986) and spent almost 10 years as a makeup supervisor. He also produced and directed Mexican television serials around the same time. The director got his first big break when Cronos (1993) a horror film won several international awards and also bagged the International Critics Week prize at Cannes. Guillermo followed it up with his first Hollywood film, Mimic (1997), starring Mira Sorvino. However, after a few bad experiences in Hollywood, he decided to head back home to Mexico and helmed the immensely successful horror flick The Devil's Backbone (2001), a Spanish Civil War ghost story. The film was hailed by critics and audiences alike, and Guillermo decided to give Hollywood another shot. He struck gold with the second instalment of the Blade franchise starring Wesley Snipes and followed it up with another successful comic-book inspired film, Hellboy (2004) starring Ron Pearlman, the science fiction monster flick Pacific Rim (2013), and the gothic romance movie Crimson Peak (2015). A prolific producer, he has backed hugely acclaimed projects like The Orphanage (2007), Julia's Eyes (2010), Kung Fu Panda 2 (2011), Puss in Boots (2011), and Mama (2013).
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Lars von Trier Lars von Trier is easily one of the most visually distinctive filmmakers in Hollywood. The director, who hails from Denmark, studied cinema at the Danish Film School and his short film Befrielsesbilleder (1982) ("Images of Relief"), won the Best Film award at the Munich Film Festival the following year. However, he shot into the limelight with his debut feature film, The Element of Crime (1984).
“My films are about ideals that clash with the world. Every time it's a man in the lead, they have forgotten about the ideals. And every time it's a woman in the lead, they take the ideals all the way.”
A distinctive blend of film noir and German Expressionism, it was a post-modern film with a psychological theme. The movie won the Technical Grand Prize at the Cannes Film Festival. His subsequent features Epidemic (1987) and Europa (1991) were equally ambitious both thematically and visually but failed to make an impact like his debut film. He made a comeback in 1991 with Europa which won him the Jury Prize as well as the Technical Grand Prize and Best Artistic Contribution at the Cannes Film Festival. His Breaking the Waves (1996), for which he won the Jury Prize at Cannes, was the director's first film (in a trilogy) that centered on the female sex. He followed it up with Dancer in the Dark (2000), a melodrama about an east European woman who sacrifices everything, literally, to save her son from getting the same eye-illness she suffers from. It won the 2000 Palm D'Or at the Cannes Film Festival. Apart from his movies, Lars is also known for his TV mini-series Riget (The Kingdom) (1994) in which he blended his cinematic style with a surrealistic story about ghosts, god and Satan. In 2011, the 60-year-old sought inspiration from his personal battle with depression and helmed the Hollywood film Melancholia staring Kirsten Dunst and Keifer Sutherland, which was appreciated by critics and audiences alike. Lars is known for delving into the psyche of the human mind, exploring human relationships and having strong female protagonists who experience transcendence after battling their inner demons.
Timur Bekmambetov Timur Bekmambetov hailed from a humble RussianKazakh family. He developed a passion for cinema after moving to Moscow from Kazakhstan. After attending the Moscow Energy Institute for two years where he was studying to be an engineer, he dropped out of college, and studied painting at Tashkent Theatrical Art Institute. He then served in the Red Army stationed at Turkmenistan for a year and later worked as set designer for a local theatre in Tashkent and also at Uzbek Film Studio.
“Russia needs big, ambitious and brave film-making. It has always had art-house cinema -- great, talented movies for European festivals - and also bad, cheap and creatively weak commercial movies.�
His journey as a director began when he started making television commercials. In 1992, he made his feature film debut with Peshavarskiy vals (1994), which revolved around the Soviet war in Afghanistan, and won several awards at international film festivals. His big break came with the success of the vampire franchise Night Watch (2004) and Day Watch(2006), which he directed during 2003 - 2005. Both films became international blockbusters, and received several awards and nominations. In 2008, he forayed into Hollywood with Wanted (2008), an action flick about a secret society of assassins starring Angelina Jolie. In 2011, he produced Apollo 18 and followed it up with Abraham Lincoln, Vampire Hunter. Last year, he directed Ben Hur, the fifth film adaptation of 1880 novel. His films are known for their dense narrative and action-packed sequences, leaving the audience wanting for more. n
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musical notes
RD BURMAN AHEAD OF HIS TIMES
Stalwarts of the music industry speak to Sujata Majumdar of their favorite songs from their most beloved composer of all time, the avant garde RD Burman
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ast month marked the 78th birth anniversary of Rahul Dev Burman aka R D Burman, better known as Pancham daa. Pancham turned out to be such an apt musical nickname depicting the fifth musical note Pancham or “Pa”, for a composer who was so much ahead of his time. He experimented and introduced various new elements in film songs that were so modern that his songs are being remixed even today. Timeless melodies like Dum maro dum, Mere naina saawan bhadon, Piya tu ab to aaja, O hasina zulfonwali, Yeh jo mohabbat hai, Baahon mein chale aao, Ek ladki ko dekha to aisa laga and numerous more are as popular among the youth now as they were in the past. Precisely why Pancham is a brand unto himself, whose aura in the music industry has attained legendary proportions. Some music industry stalwarts get nostalgic as they remember their time together. Read on and we’re sure you too will be humming at the end of this piece! “Pancham was the only man who understood me. We had tremendous musical compatibility. He gave me the confidence to improvise and sing better than before and
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introduced me to the western style of singing. The Asha-RD pair created magic which continues even today. My non filmy albums with him i.e. Dil Padosi Hai and many more created ripples in the music world. My Bengali songs under his music direction became as popular as my Hindi songs. Although I love all the songs I sung for him, right now I feel like humming my all-time favorite Mera Kuch Saamaan from the film Ijaazat.” ~ Asha Bhosle (also Pancham’s wife) “Pancham daa, my most favorite music director gave me my first break as a playback singer in Dev Anand’s film Aanand aur Aanand. The song was “Main awara hi sahi”. I learnt to be a hardcore professional like him. His music has universal appeal. He was so much ahead of his time that the music he composed so many decades ago is being remixed even in contemporary times! All his compositions are my favorites. I always sing his songs in my stage shows.” ~ Abhijeet “I call Pancham daa ‘Peer Baba’. His sense of scale
variation in songs is tremendous. The magical quality of his compositions was such that I consider him the best composer of the world. My favorite is Gulaabi aankhen from film The Train.” ~ Sukhwinder Singh “He is the kind of artist who never dies, who is made immortal through his work. All his songs are my favorites so it is difficult to categorize. However, the song Aaya hoon main tujhko le jaoonga from the film Manoranjan is one of my favorites because of its awesome beat and rhythm.” ~ Jaspinder Narula “R D Burman is my favorite composer. The music industry is incomplete without him and his position is irreplaceable in the world of music. I am lucky that my first break as a playback singer was given to me by Pancham da in the film Parinda. I was only 17 then and sang only one line in the song Kitni pyari dosti hamaari. However, it was a great blessing for me to have got a chance to sing for him. I have sung various remixes of his compositions. Mere sapnon ki rani is one of them. The one I really love though is Tere bina jiya jaye naa from the film Ghar.” ~ Shaan “I worked with Pancham daa for around 5 years. I started with the Accordion since Kersi Lord had given up playing the instrument, and among the newcomers I was one of the Accordion players. I was lucky that I got chance to play with him for his stage shows also, in India and abroad. I also played the Accordion in films like Parinda, 1942 A Love Story, Ghatak, and many Bengali private albums. I remember him as a very energetic and lovable person. He always encouraged musicians to experiment with new sounds on acoustic and electronic
instruments. My favorite song of his is Zindagi ke safar mein guzar jaate hain from the film Aap Ki Kasam.” ~ Chitty Pillai (Music Arranger) “I have followed his music since childhood. He truly is the God of the Indian music industry. His innovations with new sounds created chartbusters which became classics. His compositions were path breaking! I was lucky to have got a chance to interact with him during the background score of Betaab. My alltime favorite is Kuch toh log kahenge from Amar Prem.” ~ Dabboo Malik (Music Director) “He was highly talented and had great respect for classical music. I sang two of his compositions with Lata ji. It was a great experience to work with him. He raised his father S D Burman’s name and dignity to a higher level. With his talent he could compose any kind of a song in any style. I love Raina Beeti Jaaye from the film Amar Prem.” ~ Anup Jalota “R D Burman brought about a renaissance in Hindi film music which in turn had a trickle down effect to Indian film music in general. His music had a lot of freshness and experimentation was his forte. He was indeed a genius. I love the melodies he crafted to perfection. My favorites are - Raina beeti jaye, Humein tumse pyar kitna, Beeti na bitayi raina and many more…” ~ M Jayachandran (Music Director) n
Sujata Majumdar is a wellknown playback singer and our special music columnist
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HEART TALK
Parenting is a tightrope walk for most parents, but single parents can find it doubly difficult to master the art. Rashika Chauhan gives us her unique perspective on how to make the best of it.
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hat is the most frustrating, annoying, tiring and mind boggling thing in the world? In my opinion it has to be to get the ketchup out of a new bottle! What did you think I was going to say? Moving away from the splatters of the ketchup bomb allow me to hold your hand as we tip-toe on the path that is also my journey as a single parent. Yes, I’m a single – and a very resolved and a good one if I may say so – parent! This is not a role of my choice but now I love it and would not trade it for anything else in the world. While my daughter can be my emotional weakness, she is also my source of strength and inspiration to do what is best for her, which basically translates into what is best for us! We are the ‘awesome twosome’ but it has taken some effort on both our parts to make this loving
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partnership work. I’m not going to pretend and say that I’m her father and her mother for the very simple reason that I’m not. I’m her mother who only wants the best for her but I have also accepted that just like everyone else I’m not perfect and that I will make mistakes. Once you get past the ego trip half your job is done. I was also determined from the very beginning that I was not going to let my emotions get the best of me and allow her to run a major emotional blackmailing scam on me. I let her get away with a lot of things while allowing her to feel that she is winning. She can play all the games and tricks that she wants but the rules are always mine. I let my daughter express herself freely, have an opinion and even do what she wants to do but without allowing her to jump the fence set up by me! I strongly believe that these things are important to develop her personality and a mind to reason reasonably while still being governed by basic ethics and principles pivoted around human sensibilities and our cultural ethos. Talking about give and take in the relationship, I don’t follow the notion that parents give while children take. This becomes trickier when you are a single parent. There has to be a balance which is extremely critical for healthy parenting. Yes, my daughter is the center of my universe, however my life does not revolve around her. While I’m a passionate mother I’m also a woman and a human being who has aspirations, dreams and a life of my own. I work full time and have devised a formula where I get to do justice to my job and also pay full attention to my daughter. My life involves friends and I do make it a point to socialize to keep the fun element alive. And I would urge everyone to make their children understand this. My daughter now fully acknowledges my need to have an outlet and a social life and is very supportive of it. In fact she encourages me to do that and sometimes even throws me out of my own house to go and meet up with friends! I also support taking a break from our daily lives and routines and as I take my daughter once a year for a refreshing holiday. I make it a point to do just the same with my friends. This way I attend to her need for a break which leads us to bond at
“While I’m a passionate mother I’m also a woman and a human being who has aspirations, dreams and a life of my own. I work full time and have devised a formula where I get to do justice to my job and also pay full attention to my daughter.” a different level and my need to stay connected to myself as a person and as a woman. Is it always easy? No! Do I get frustrated sometimes? Absolutely! However, that has nothing to do with single parenting and I never go on a guilt trip or feel bad about it. It comes with the territory and every couple who is a parent also finds it difficult sometimes. The sooner one accepts this, the better it is. Don’t expect that it will be a smooth ride. Having a partner may help as you can play on each other’s strengths but not having one does not necessarily become a handicap. Every phase in my daughter’s life has thrown curveballs at me and while I have missed some of them I have managed to whack most of them outside the stadium! What for me is the most fulfilling, enjoyable, refreshing and best thing in the world? It is to see my daughter make a mess with the new bottle of ketchup and look into my eyes, only to get the clear message, ‘It is okay, baby. I still love you!’. n (Rashika Chauhan is a single parent, professional architect and party animal, based in Vadodara.)
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TV Out. Digital In.
Ashesh Pandia writes on the dynamic changes in the entertainment industry, where the internet now presents unforseen options for all, from top directors to novice moviemakers and of course the savvy audiences
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he year was 1976. Doordarshan, the pioneer of television entertainment in India, launched its maiden television series Laddoosingh Taxiwala starring one of the greatest comedians of Indian cinema, Paintal, as the protagonist. It was a time when India’s electronic entertainment industry was in its nascent stage. The limited reach of the television notwithstanding, Laddoosingh Taxiwala’s launch came as a breath of fresh air for Indian viewers. There was no looking back after that. The reach, the expanse and the market of electronic entertainment saw steady growth till the advent of private entertainment channels. After the big bang economic reforms of 1991, private players entered into the hitherto monopolised
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Indian electronic entertainment scene. This lead to exponential growth of television entertainment as the viewers were now had access to a plethora of options in the form of daily shows, comedy shows, sports events et al. Once again there was no looking back. The new flavour of television entertainment brought in by the private channels proved to be a huge hit and television became synonymous with living room entertainment in the country. Year 2017. 41 years after the launch of first television serial in India, the craze for the small screen entertainment seems to be waning quick and fast, thanks to the rise of digital entertainment comprising of web series and short films.
Alas, the popularity of television content is fast losing ground, as the millennials are hogging the internet and increasingly subscribing to digital entertainment platforms like YouTube, Amazon Prime Video, Hotstar, Sony LIV, Netflix and VOOT. Producers and directors too have caught onto this shift, and everyone from the established names to debutants are jumping on the digital bandwagon to make the next web series or short film. Among the high profile names producing web series for the digital platform are some of Bollywood’s leading filmmakers like Yash Chopra, Vikram Bhatt, Ram Gopal Verma, Kabir Khan and Farhan Akhtar. Bollywood diva, Priyanka Chopra, is also planning to join the gang through her production house Purple Pebbles Pictures. On the television front, Hats Off Productions, the makers of super hit TV show ‘Sarabhai v/s Sarabhai’ (2004), have re-launched the show as a web series titled ‘Sarabhai v/s Sarabhai Take 2’ on Hotstar. Ekta Kapoor, who graduated from TV czarina to Bollywood film producer, has also launched five web series this year! Also underlining the infinite potential of web series are leading actors who are opting to act in them. Saif Ali Khan, Vivek Oberoi, Nimrat Kaur, Rajkummar Rao, Sakshi Tanwar, Ram Kapoor, Shama Sikander, Tridha Choudhury are just a few such names. That brings us to the question of whether is is the names of such stalwarts that is adding to the success of web series in India? There seems to be more to it than meets the eye. The Indian audience has matured over the years and now seeks more innovative and realistic content. Web series are filling in that gap by providing the right kind of fodder - content that’s bolder, more candid and relevant to present times as compared to television which seems stuck in a traditional rut and suffering from creative bankruptcy. “Television content definitely needs to be overhauled,” feels Shama Sikander, the female protagonist of one of Vikram Bhatt’s highly popular
web series ‘Maaya’. “There is nothing on Indian TV that matches up to Hollywood’s Game of Thrones, for example. Writers and actors both are feeling creatively suffocated. Writers don’t get enough time to write and actors are playing same kind of roles on TV. A web series gives actors, writers and directors much needed creative freedom to express and explore new ideas,” she vents. What exactly does creative freedom mean here? “At least until now a web series is free from any kind of censorship, that’s the biggest advantage,” says Ramman Handa, Producer, Natak Entertainment whose soon to be released web series is titled ‘No Casting No Couch Only Ouch’. The title ignites one’s imagination but Ramman is happy to leave us guessing. “I was an actor before I turned producer,” Ramman continues, “I switched to producing a web series because I felt suffocated by the restrictions imposed on me as an actor. I was unable to express myself freely. In a web series there is no limit to creativity. It is a lot more satisfying than working in television or even films.” With a number of bold, vicarious and explicit web series available on the web and mobile platforms, it seems that content creators have found a way to sidestep the censor board after all, and go all out to show what they want, the way want, without any fear. So, is censor board sleeping? Going by the statement of Pahlaj Nihalani, CBFC Chairperson, the web series industry is certainly on their radar, if not on their target. Commenting on the lurid content of ‘Guns & Thighs’, a web series produced by Ram Gopal Varma, which shocked even Big B, the censor board chairperson reportedly said that making a web series comes with inbuilt responsibilities. He cautioned the producers and directors against the misuse of unlimited freedom that the internet provides.
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feature
Top 5 Must-Watch Web Series TVF Pitchers (Rating: 9.3 Genre: Comedy)) Four young entrepreneurs give up their jobs to start their own venture. The web series outlines their journey. The Test Case (Rating: 9.2 Genre: Action, Drama) Captain Shikha Sharma is preparing to be the first ever female test case of the Indian Army. She will leave no stone unturned to achieve the honour in the male-dominated academy. Does she succeed in her mission?
However, going by the humongous number of likes and views that such web series attract, it seems the ‘mission’ of these creative campaigners to bring about a revolution in entertainment industry by taking the digital route, is meeting with tremendous success. From the point of view of investment and cost of production too, the web series industry has become very lucrative over the past few years. Though it’s still in its nascent stage, brands from the FMCG sector are showing definite interest in joining hands with the web series producers. Not to be left behind, foreign companies are also investing in the web series industry in a big way. Just last year, British television company FremantleMedia signed five brand deals for its first maiden web series in India called ‘Confessions’. The total value of this venture is estimated to be between Rs. 1.5 and Rs. 2 crore. The Viral Fever (TVF), one of the pioneers of web series in India had tied up with Commonfloor for its web series ‘Permanent Roommates’. Yash Raj Films, for its web series ‘Bang Baaja Baraat’ copartnered with Lakme and Karol Bagh Saree House. The ad rates have also seen a big jump in the past few years. Brands which were ready to pay Rs. 1.5 lakh per episode of a web series a couple of years ago, are now willing to shell out anywhere between Rs. 15 to Rs. 20 lakh for the same. So, is television facing grim future? Not yet, according
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Inside Edge (Rating: 8.4 Genre: Drama, Sport) The web series dwells on the T20 fever. Mumbai Mavericks is a franchise playing in the Powerplay League. It highlights what goes on in the highest echelons of power that play their own game in the name of cricket. Bang Baaja Baaraat (Rating: 8.2 Genre: Comedy) Two love birds from different family and cultural background fall in love and decide to get married. But they won't do it without the consent and blessings of their respective parents. What happens when their parents meet ? A. I. Sha (Rating: 8.1 Genre: Sci-Fi) A. I. Sha is a love story of a different kind. It's a love story involving a man and a woman but for one change. The woman is Artificial Intelligence Simulated Humanoid Assistant. Now that's interesting. (Source: IMDB)
to the industry experts. There are mainly two reasons for this. One, television is well rooted and established and still enjoys a far wider reach than internet in India. This gives it a much larger viewership than digital media. Second, because of the larger viewership base, the economics of this industry is still very strong. The investment and the returns are far more compared to the digital industry which is still in its nascent stage. But yes, the competition is stiff and television will have to pull up its socks quickly if not immediately, to enjoy the same popularity and loyalty of the Indian audience. The rest, as they say only time will tell. n
feature
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A LEGEND IN MORE WAYS THAN ONE Sir Frank Worrell, who has many distinctions to his name, also happens to be the only cricketer who can be seen on currency notes. Rahul Keshwani writes on the sportsman and his spirit
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o amount of cricket trivia is enough for the game’s fans. What originated as a children’s game in 16th century England now happens to be the second most watched spectator sport in the world. Its undying popularity has led many countries to issue commemorative postal stamps, post cards, First Day covers, coins and other tokens of the sport, but Barbados is the only country which has issued cricket-themed currency notes with a cricketer’s image imprinted on them. Barbados’s national game is, you guessed it, Cricket and the island has its own national cricket team, which is organized by BCA or the Barbados Cricket Association. Barbados is a member of the West Indies Cricket Board (WICB), which is a member of the International Cricket Council (ICC) in its own right, and Barbadians play internationally for the West Indies cricket team.
Worrell. The first note was issued on 1st May 2007 and the second six years later in May 2013 by the premier financial institution of the country, The Central Bank of Barbados, which was established in 1972.
A sovereign island country in the Lesser Antilles, in the Americas, Barbados is all of 34 kilometers in length and 23 km in width, covering an area of 432 km. It is situated in the western area of the North Atlantic and is outside of the principal Atlantic hurricane belt.
As a player for West Indies, Worrell made his debut in 1947–48 versus the England team of Gubby Allen. Following this series he took up residence in Lancashire, England to play for Radcliffe in the Central Lancashire League and to read economics at Manchester University. He made his highest Test score of 261 against England at Trent Bridge in 1950, and was a Wisden Cricketer of the Year for 1951.
The island country has two different currency notes with the image of the legendary cricketer, Sir Frank
Sir Frank Mortimer Maglinne Worrell sometimes referred to by his nicknames Tae and Flanny, was a West Indies cricketer and Jamaican senator born on 1st August 1924, at Saint Michael Parish, Barbados. He was a stylish right-handed batsman and a useful left-arm seam bowler. He became famous in the 1950s as the first black captain of the West Indies cricket team. Along with Everton Weekes and Clyde Walcott, he formed what was known as "The Three Ws" of the West Indian cricket. He was the first of the two batsmen to have been involved in two 500-run partnerships in first-class cricket.
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feature
Following a successful campaign head injury from a bouncer bowled FUN FACT: led by C. L. R. James, who was then by West Indies fast bowler Charlie The best-selling Indian street editor of The Nation in Trinidad, the Griffith. Worrell was the first player food "Frankie" is named after period of white Test captaincy in the from both sides to donate blood Sir Frank Worrell! Mr. Amarjit West Indies came to an end. Worrell to the injured Contractor, which Tibb, founder of Tibb's Frankie, became the first black cricketer to saved his life. In 1963, West named the ubiquitous roll after his favorite cricketer. Frankie captain the West Indies cricket team Indies toured England. They were is a Indian wrap which was for an entire series, thus breaking the again popular, and this time they inspired by the Lebanese Pita colour barriers then found in West also won the series 3-1. It was wrap that Mr. Tibb ate in Beirut, Indian cricket. He led the side on two West Indies' first series victory Lebanon. particularly notable tours. The first in England. Worrell retired after was to Australia in 1960–61. Both the West Indies-England series. Worrell and his opposing captain, Richie Benaud, When he left professional cricket, he became Warden encouraged their teams to play attacking cricket. of Irvine Hall at the University of the West Indies, The first Test of the series ended in a dramatic and was appointed to the Jamaican Senate by Sir tie. Though West Indies lost the series 2-1, with Alexander Bustamante. He strongly supported a one draw in addition to the tie, they took much closer political union between the nations of the credit for contributing to the series. Such was their Caribbean. He was knighted for his services to cricket performance and conduct on Australian soil that they in 1964. were given a large ticker-tape parade in Australia at the end of their tour. Worrell managed the West Indies during the 1964– 65 visit by Australia, and accompanied the team On 3 February 1962, Nari Contractor, the captain of to India in the winter of 1966–67. It was while in the touring Indian team, received a career-ending India that he was diagnosed with leukemia. He died
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at the age of 42 on 13th March 1967 at Kingston, Jamaica, a month after returning to Jamaica. A memorial service was held in his honor in Westminster Abbey, the first time such an honor was granted to a sportsman. Since the 1960–61 series, The Frank Worrell Trophy has been awarded to the winner of the Test series between Australia and West Indies. One of the two Halls of Residence at the University of the West Indies (UWI), Cave Hill Campus in Barbados, is named after him. The Sir Frank Worrell Memorial Ground, also or formerly known as University of West Indies Ground, is a cricket stadium in Saint Augustine, Trinidad and Tobago. Caribbean journalist Ernest Eytle (born Guyana 1918) wrote a biography of Worrell called Frank Worrell : The Career of a Great Cricketer, in 1963. In June 1988 Worrell was celebrated on the Barbadian postal stamp alongside the Barbados Cricket Buckle. The latter depicts the only known image of a slave playing cricket. In 1993, the annual Sir Frank Worrell Memorial Lecture was instituted at UWI Cave Hill by Professor Hilary Beckles, the inaugural lecture, entitled "Sir Frank and the rise of West Indies cricket", being delivered by Michael Manley in 1994.
In 2007, the Sir Frank Worrell Memorial Committee was founded to mark the 40th anniversary of his death, which coincided with the opening match - West Indies vs Pakistan, Sabina Park, Jamaica - of the ICC Cricket World Cup in the West Indies. In 2009, the Sir Frank Worrell Memorial Blood Drive was begun in Trinidad and Tobago, inaugurated by the 74-year-old Nari Contractor, to whom Worrell had donated blood after his head injury in 1962. In remembrance of this act, the Cricket Association of Bengal organizes a blood donation drive on this day every year and the day is commemorated as Sir Frank Worrell Day in the state of West Bengal in India. n
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interview
Chandigarh based author Preeti Singh shares her life and ideas in an exclusive interview with Nandita Derashri.
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oming from an army background, Preeti Singh’s fighting spirit helped her conquer epilepsy, a handicap that she was born with. She knew she had done it when she became a successful author with 3 novels under her belt. Her book ‘Crossroads’ is the First Indian Fiction for having real life people as its characters and her first book, ‘Flirting with Fate’ was nominated for the Commonwealth Booker’s Prize.
guys! My favourite serials are all crime related and I guess both my stories stemmed from this urge to find out the truth behind murders, serial killers and the likes....though I can never kill a fly myself in real life (laughs). My second book Crossroads is an emotional saga, which is probably the real me. As for more genres, yes, maybe someday I’ll write a love story or books for kids. Let’s see what the heart urges from within.
Your debut novel ‘Flirting with Fate’ was awarded the Best Debut Crime Fiction in 2012. Your third novel, ‘Watched’ is also a crime thriller. What attracts you to this genre? Any other genres you’d like to experiment with? As a child, I was always intrigued by mystery novels and my house was loaded with Nancy Drews, Hardy Boys and Agatha Christies. I always wanted to discover how the bad guys were caught by the good
Did you always want to be a writer? Well, I never knew I would be a writer. Writing was always my hobby and I was 9 years old when I began scribbling down my thoughts. As I grew and dabbled in various other fields, I realised that inner peace was missing, which I found when I resumed writing for national magazines. Slowly, I dumped all other fields beckoning me and turned my passion for writing into my profession which also shaped my website www. writingnaturally.com
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If not a writer, what would you have been? I would have loved to join the defence forces. Growing up in an army environment, patriotism is in my blood. After college, I did fill up the form to join the Indian Navy but it was rejected because I am an epileptic since birth. So I married an Army man as the next best alternative! If I was fit enough, maybe I would have returned home in a coffin someday wrapped in the tricolour. Do you face the writer’s block ever? What do you do then to get the creative juices flowing again? Oh yes! All writers face this most terrible phase that we dislike most! But it’s part of the game, we have to undergo it; no escape! When the writer’s block befalls me, I have all the ideas running in my head but I can’t even write a single word! It’s definitely frustrating and
I feel helpless. So the best antidote I have found to the writer’s block is to just shut down the laptop, go shopping, see movies, read a few books I wanted to, visit a few friends I may have neglected. Basically, do just about anything to keep me away from writing. And when the block is ignored, it suddenly vanishes and I feel the irresistible urge to begin writing again. Then the urge is so strong, I forget to eat and sleep, and just write crazily like a zombie, totally unaware of the world. My experience has taught me that the best emerges only when that fire comes from within me, to write with gusto... Where do you get your ideas and inspiration from? From life...it teaches us. Who are your favourite authors? I am reading self-help books at this stage of life. My favourite author is Eckhart Tolle and his book
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interview
‘Power of Now’. It is my constant companion, keeping me rooted to the NOW. What are you currently reading? ‘The Power’ by Rhonda Byrne
workshops or be a guest at literary events. How did you choose the ‘real life’ characters for your book ‘Crossroads’? Where did such an idea come from? I just wanted to do something special for the few people who I chose as the characters of Crossroads. They are all my FB friends and have been kind to me in some way or the other. This was my way to repay them and it was a novel idea which was well received by the readers. It found a place in the India Book of Records for portraying 19 real life people with their real names, from various cities as its characters.
Do you have a favourite spot at home where your mind works best? Is it important for you to have a certain kind of environment to be able to write? Not exactly… it depends on my mood actually. When I want to escape from the disturbances of housework, I prefer my creative office which is quiet and a bit “An idea usually away from home. When I am brews in my mind writing a light scene or editing How do you think you have for some time. When evolved over the years my previous work, it’s my bed the urge surfaces I with songs playing on the TV when it comes to writing? and laptop. There have been The writing industry has taught me prepare a kind of times when I am at a mall and a lot and I have learnt plenty from skeleton based on a line strikes me - out comes feedbacks. For example, those one line ideas.” readers’ my tiny diary and I am scribbling when writing anything, your facts and I land up taking someone have to be accurate. Writing is a else’s trolley! Writing for me just happens anywhere, responsibility, even if it’s fiction, the locations and anytime. But of course, it depends from writer to certain details need to be true. writer. What are three most important qualities What is your writing process like? How for anyone who aspires to be a good many drafts do you prepare? Do you set a writer? deadline for yourself? Just be yourself, try not to copy other successful An idea usually brews in my mind for some time. writers. Secondly, don’t write to impress, write to When the urge surfaces I prepare a kind of skeleton express in words that are simple. If your readers need based on those one line ideas. Then slowly, step by to pick up a dictionary to know the meanings of your step, I expand on those tiny drafts. No deadlines. tough words, they have lost the flow of the story and Writers are free birds and also slaves of their you have lost the interest of your reader. Last but not moods. Till I am not satisfied with the final draft, the the least, don’t write for money or fame or you will be manuscript remains incomplete. disappointed. Write as a passion or a hobby, you will be happier. If your work is good and you are honest, Have you been on any literary success will chase you anyway. pilgrimages? Not really, but I do get invited to hold literary How difficult is it for you to balance
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between what you want to write and what the market demands? One can’t please everyone, so I just follow my heart and write what I want. There is always a readership, large or small for every book. If I write what the market demands, maybe the book will sell more but my heart will be uneasy. As a writer, one has to decide what one wants, sales or peace of mind and I choose the latter always. The universe automatically sends me cooperating publishers and a good readership. Are you friends with other authors? Do you all bounce ideas off each other? If not, then who do you discuss your ideas with? Yes, of course, we authors are friends and keep helping each other in marketing each others’ books. But more than ideas we discuss publishers and try to help each other to get a nationwide reach for our books. Ideas, I guess is an author’s private territory which is at times half-baked and not ready to be shared till finally penned. Ideas come and go till one day they take the shape of a book. What book are you currently working on? None. I am like Aamir Khan - short in height and emerging with a project after 2 years (laughs). I am just working on myself - to be a better human being. When I am not writing a book, I take up editing projects for Indian or International clientele and help them polish their scripts. Does your daughter also want to be a writer?
“One can’t please everyone, so I just follow my heart and write what I want. There is always a readership, large or small for every book. If I write what the market demands, maybe the book will sell more but my heart will be uneasy. ” She does scribble deep stuff sometimes but has decided to be a heart surgeon - maybe to cure her crazy mom’s emotional, fun loving and carefree heart! What are your other interests, apart from writing? I am an ardent dog lover and am part of an NGO to help stray dogs and street children. I love watching movies, forgetting the world around me often and of course, sleeping! n
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made in india
It’s Plastic
and Fantastic Heeral Trivedi visits the Nilkamal Plastics headquarters in Mumbai to know more about the home-grown brand which is today the world’s largest manufacturer of moulded furniture
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lastic is usually considered a bane but when it is recycled or used to replace other valuable materials like wood or paper, thus saving trees in the process, it actually becomes a boon. Either way, plastic is an unavoidable part of our lives now. Over the last few decades one has seen the plastic industry in India grow to phenomenal heights. This new age material has replaced glass, wood and even paper in some cases. A leading name in the Indian plastic industry, Nilkamal Ltd. has steadily risen in two spheres - the “Home” business which covers plastic moulded furniture and “Material handling” which includes crates and containers. The company has greatly popularized the use of plastic furniture and crates in India, replacing their wooden predecessors to a large extent. Brightly coloured Nilkamal chairs and tables are almost a given at any gathering whether in the city or even in villages!
sector.” With its growing range of products, Nilkamal went on to open multiple units. First came the plant at Sinnar, Maharastra in 1991. That same year the company also became a public limited company. In the changing economic scenario of an open multinational market, a turning point for the company came when it became the official supplier of crates to Pepsico and Coca-Cola in 1994. A common sight all over the country, the decaying wooden crate was replaced by the bright and snazzy, light weight and eco-friendly, red and blue crates holding sparkling bottles of the flavoured
Nilkamal is an offshoot of an old family business that was originally started by Shri Vrajlal Parekh way back in 1939 for manufacturing plastic buttons. They expanded later to make household goods like buckets, tumblers and so on. Nilkamal Ltd. became an independent venture in the year 1981, expanding to manufacture crates in 1984. In 1990 they introduced moulded furniture and created a solid niche for themselves in the plastic goods market. Almost three decades on, both these product ranges continue to be the most popular and trusted products of the company. But when they started it was a relatively new concept threatening to replace traditional wooden furniture. How big a challenge was it to reach not only into people’s homes but their hearts? Hiten V. Parekh, joint M.D, Nilkamal, says the use of plastic chairs at home was not an easily accepted idea initially, but due to various reasons such as their light weight, durability, water resistance and stackable feature, they were definitely more practical for use at large gatherings like weddings and similar functions. The popularity increased only gradually and they also filled in the gap for garden furniture for Indian homes. “In fact we came up with more and more aesthetically pleasing designs for home use. Later we introduced tables of various kinds and slowly we expanded to the furniture
Hiten Parekh, joint MD, Nilkamal, with the water-wheel.
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made in india
soda. With this the demand for crates in large quantities in a short period of time compelled the company to open more factories in other parts of the country. In the year 1997, Nilkamal opened new plants in North India at Noida (U.P), in South India at Pondicherry and in West India at Khaadapada – Silvassa. This rapid expansion of the brand continued and by 2000 Nilkamal plastics had opened more units in the west in Vasona and in the east at Barjora (West Bengal). Nilkamal went on to spread its wings overseas too with a factory in Sri Lanka.
emissions. In fact in recent years they have also installed solar panels on the roof top of their Sinnar factory and want to do the same in other factories as well.
Nilkamal by now was a household name in India and the next logical step was to export their unique products, a huge demand for which today sees them supplying to 38 countries! This home grown company is now the largest manufacturer of moulded furniture in the world with 10 lakh chairs being produced every month. It is also the second largest company in material handling in Asia second only to Japan.
Nilkamal’s high rise racking and shelving solutions are supplied to many storerooms, including for all of Amazon’s warehouses. Another new product under Material Handling is “palettes” which is used largely in the pharma and food industry. It provides an organized and hygienic option for storage. Then there is Infrastructure Equipment that is replacing the earlier used metal barriers which were commonly used at construction sites and on roads as barricades. Nilkamal has also begun manufacturing high quality mattresses.
In 2006, they entered into a joint venture with Bito Lagertechnik Bittmann GMBH, Germany, and opened a factory in Jammu to manufacture high rise racking and shelving systems in metal used at large logistic centers. Nilkamal also entered a joint venture with Cambro of USA to manufacture material handling systems for the hospitality industry. These products are mainly used in large hotels, hospitals and canteens for efficient movement of crockery, cutlery and food. Environmentally conscious Nilkamal is known as the green company with all its factories having ISO certifications for Environment management, for Occupational and Health safety for all their employees, and for Energy Management. In the last 2 years, for every kilo of plastic processed, energy consumption has been reduced by 22% thereby reducing the carbon
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The business entered the retail sector with home stores under the name @home and today has 20 stores across the country. More than 50% of the products at the store are imported and are also marketed through various e-retailers like Amazon, Pepperfry and Snapdeal, apart from their own website.
Constantly innovating and searching for new ideas and ventures, the company has unique ideas even in its CSR initiatives, the latest introduction being the water-wheel. It is a product made for rural India. Hiten Parekh explains, “The water wheel is especially made for women who carry water on their heads and walk for kilometers to reach their destination. Nilkamal tied up with the American company Wello to launch the water wheel, and as the name suggests, it’s a water carrier which can be filled and carried by pushing or pulling. This initiative has been well received by rural women and we hope to see it spread across the country.” As part of the Indian government’s “Swach Bharat Abhiyan”, Nilkamal has developed the “Sauch pan” or the portable toilet pan to address the issue of open defacation. They tied up with Lixil of Japan to develop
this product which will use only 1.5 litres of water, making it a more efficient option even when there is lack of water. Constantly evolving and innovating, the company currently holds 3 patents under the name of Hiten Parekh for developing concepts in injection moulding technology. Most recently the patent has been lent to an American company which has its manufacturing unit in Gujarat! When asked about the number of awards the company has bagged, Hiten very hesitantly says, “We are a shy company and don’t announce ourselves in the media about our awards and achievements,” but then reveals with well-deserved pride that the company got 3 gold trophies in the last 3 consecutive years from the Hon. Minister of Energy and Renewables, and an award last year from CII for energy conservation. He goes on to add that they employ about 5000 people in all their units, for many of whom it is a training ground, “Many have honed their skills at Nilkamal in various departments and have gone on to secure top-class placements abroad.” The success of the company Hiten says is the teamwork and integrity harboured within and the management’s vision, which is headed by Chairman Mr. Vaman Parekh and M.D Mr. Sharad Parekh. The company with a registered turnover of 2,200 crores, has also welcomed into its folds the next generation of the Parekhs – Manish and Nayan who are Executive Directors of Furniture and Material Handling respectively.
Fondly recalling some key milestones in the company’s developing years, Hiten Parekh has vivid memories of the time they acquired the government order for manufacturing the EVM (Electronic voting machines) machines in 1989. Though the company was in debt then and his tender initially rejected, he made another attempt when he flew for a meeting to Bangalore and put forth his proposal personally. The meeting ended positively and he walked out with an advance cheque of one crore which immediately put the company back on track. After this there was no stopping and Nilkamal continued to claim greater heights. For Hiten, it is heartening to know that over 100 plastic companies are imitating the chairs which have been originally designed by Nilkamal. During a Swiss family holiday in 2000, he remembers seeing a plastic chair at a restaurant in a mountainous region which resembled one produced by them. On looking closely he was surprised to find that it was a Nilkamal chair. They had been carried by the owner from India since he had liked the design! Many such incidents fill his memory and spur him and the think tank at Nilkamal on to find new ways to excel in terms of manufacturing, quality-control and also time management to reach their goals. The family business which has now absorbed the fourth generation under its umbrella is ready to take risks for what it believes in, introducing new and innovative products catering to rising local and global demands, while making life easier for many. n
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Spotlight
A NOBLE INITIATIVE
The US based Akhil Autism Foundation is creating awareness in India about Autism and the best therapies available for the disorder. Nandini Sanan Shankar spoke to its founder, Manisha Lad and clinical geneticist Dr Krati Shah to get an overview
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n a country where any sign of intellectual disability has long been considered taboo and is most likely brushed under the carpet, identification and treatment of autism, despite its increasing prevalence remains unsatisfactory. Because of the stigma attached with it, autism, a communication and socialisation disorder that now afflicts at least 4 million children in India is often diagnosed correctly only when it’s too late. Confused with delayed speech development and behavioural issues, there is still widespread ignorance about it, even among paediatricians. Who knew, for example, that 92 percent of autistic kids are known to wander out of their homes and caregivers must therefore be extremely careful about their whereabouts. A Bollywood film that did bring Asperger’s Syndrome (a mild form of autism) into the spotlight was Shahrukh Khan’s My Name is Khan. Early intervention is absolutely critical for an autistic child, as 75% of the human brain development is over by 5 years of age. “Every day of therapy counts once a child is diagnosed, ideally anywhere between 1 year to 2 years of age,” says Dr. Krati Shah, a clinical geneticist, who goes on to add, “Because autism cannot be measured objectively, it is a little difficult to identify. A trained eye and specific psychological testing can earmark subtle signs promptly though.”
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Even if diagnosed early, India still has many endemic drawbacks which prevent holistic treatment for an autistic child. The trouble is identified when the child has no delay in motor milestones but lags behind in oromotor (speech) milestones. It’s an early sign to look out for and “because the child has trouble communicating, parents need to accept the condition and take the child to specialists such as an occupational therapist, clinical psychologist and speech therapist,” recommends Dr. Shah Parents in India feel guilty of giving birth to an autistic child. Autism is caused by changes in multiple genes which is why Dr. Shah also suggests a visit to a clinical geneticist before planning the next pregnancy, in case the first child has already been diagnosed with autism. “Genetic testing is not very expensive and it will definitely help in the decision to plan another child,” she says.
A healthy environment for autistic children translates into a support group, a concept which is common in the US where therapists come home free of cost. The saying that it takes a village to raise a child could not hold any truer when it comes to caring for and expecting positive results from autistic children. Support groups are largely lacking in India though, again due to unawareness and a lack of empathy. So, can a child on the autistic spectrum ever hope to recover? It’s possible reassures Dr Krati, especially if it is diagnosed early. It also depends on whether the child is mildly, moderately or severely autistic. Sometimes a change of atmosphere and more stimulating surroundings also help. Moreover, some autistic children are brilliant mathematicians, artists, young authors or musicians, even if their social skills are undeveloped. There are many remarkable and inspiring stories where an autistic child has grown to conquer not only his own situation but also changed lives of those around him. One such boy is Akhil who lives in New Jersey. Diagnosed at 18 months with moderate to severe autism he is now a 16 year old high schooler, attending a private special education school. In April 2017, he participated in a study with neuroscientist, Dr Diane Powell, and the results of this study excited Indian-American physician Dr Deepak Chopra so much that he visited Akhil at his home to see him ‘in action’. Dr Chopra is interested in such studies for his own research on ‘local consciousness’. Manisha, Akhil’s mother says that, “Dr Chopra was blown away with Akhil’s abilities and called him a genius on Facebook, something that attracted a lot of attention as there are many other children like him out there.” Six years after Akhil was born, his parents Manisha and Mahesh Lad felt like doing their bit for the community, and so decided to launch a nonprofit organization to support and research on Autism. The Akhil Autism Foundation (AAF) was finally
launched in 2009 and Manisha calls it her second baby. AAF creates awareness in India too, about successful treatments available in USA for autism and has raised $50,000 till date for low-income parents in India who have autistic children. Mahesh continues to work in the IT field but Manisha now works dedicatedly, full time for the foundation. “Our heart goes for children like Akhil who stay in India and cannot afford such treatments or the frequent trips to USA. Many families in NJ USA too are low income and cannot afford such treatment. This is where our foundation comes in,” says Manisha, passionate about the cause, having experienced it firsthand with Akhil.
AAF’s work in India In 2009 when it began, AAF collaborated with Dr Deepak Gupta from Delhi and sponsored his visit to USA for a DAN (Defeat Autism Now) biomedical
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training. In 2011 UDAAN, an Indian NGO for the disabled, joined hands with AAF and started recommending parents of autistic children to them. AAF now has two MAPs (Medical Academy of Pediatric Special Needs) doctors in India who parents can consult. In Mumbai AAF collaborated with Hi5 Child Development Center to bring in the
relatively new Masgutova Neurosensorymotor Reflex Integration (MNRI) method to India. 70 parents and professionals were educated and 16 children assessed in Mumbai and Chennai. AAF gave a grant of $5000 and conducted an 8 day MNRI clinic in Mumbai. AAF gave another grant of $8000 for this clinic to treat some of the needy children. n
Akhil’s journey until now Once Akhil was diagnosed, mainstream doctors advised his parents, Manisha and Mahesh were advised to start with Behavior Intervention as that is the only approved research for Autism. After more than a year of doing that however, they realised that Akhil was not progressing anymore. Further tests revealed that Akhil also had medical issues such as an unhealthy gut, insomnia and food allergies which were affecting his behaviour. It was then that they began Biomedical intervention that brought new hope as he started improving. Till Akhil turned 10, many experimental treatments, not covered by insurance, were tried on him. Though much improved, his language, expression and academics were still very poor. He had no way to communicate and according to his teachers he ‘didn’t know any alphabet, shapes, numbers or colours.’
should. We learnt a few more treatment approaches and started working on his body. Slowly he gained confidence and became more aware of his body. The challenge of catching up with his academic education still remained. With Rapid Prompting Method (RPM) in which the child uses a stencil board to communicate, he now has done a course in Algebra and wants to become chemist. He desires to learn astrophysics, calculus and research plant based medicine. He also types "I am connected energetically to the universe. I am not like others who are fearful of their given gifts." Thus Akhil has provided us with a new view for autism. Surprisingly, as Akhil would type we realized that he knows what’s going on in my mind. This was a strong sign of a close relationship bond. It is true that a few autistic individuals have this ability and use it to connect with people. Akhil is now more aware of his body in his mind but retains his ability to use this ‘telepathic’ resource, as and when needed.
“Finally at that age we changed his school and they introduced him to the Ipad and a unique method of communication, which opened the door of communication between Akhil and us. We were finally able to tap into his inner world. The school also introduced us to a new view of Autism as a Mind-Body disconnect. A new journey began as we consulted few experts and learnt that Akhil was staying in his own world and had no sense of his body. One day Akhil expressed “I cannot see my body in my mind”. This was another door for us and time for a new intervention. We learnt his sensory system and motor system in the brain were disconnected, apart from his brain not maturing at the speed it
Watching Akhil and other kids communicating via RPM which uses a stencil board to communicate, two 10 yr old girls were so fascinated that they initiated a project called “Care For A Friend” where each autistic individual is paired with an age level neurotypical child. They meet once a month to communicate and discuss hobbies.
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Akhil has a desire to go to college to continue his education in Chemistry and Astrophysics. He wants to work at a farm and research how plant based medicine can cure diseases like cancer and diabetes. When asked why both diabetes and cancer, he says “They both eat cells”.
feature
THE PRIME MINISTER’S
PRIME MEN
Behind every successful public figure, there is a highly efficient team and India’s PM Narendra Modi is no exception. Palak Shah profiles the nine gems in the Prime Minister’s chosen coterie of advisors.
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ndian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his radical initiatives are everywhere - on TV, in the newspapers and in our daily discussions. Whether it is Swachh Bharat, Demonetisation or GST, ensuring that all goes according to plan and even planning it all in the first place, is a completely unseen and largely unheard-of team of people who work tirelessly, selflessly and behind the scenes. This ‘Crack Team’, ‘Think Tank’ or the ‘Navratans’ of Mr. Modi’s ministry, are the ones who help with strategizing, ideating, executing policies and breathing life into his various initiatives. Call them what you will, but there is no denying that these few good men are the ones who do all the spade work and research to make Prime Minister Modi’s dreams a reality. Ajit Kumar Doval The 5th National Security Advisor of India and a former director of the Intelligence Bureau, he retired in the year 2004-05 and became the founder director of the Vivekananda International Foundation (VIF). It is believed that even before the Modi Government was sworn in, it was decided to have Doval on board. The first police officer to receive the police medal after just 6 years of service, he was also awarded the President’s gallantry award - the Kirti Chakra for his role in Operation Black Thunder. He is most known for serving as an undercover agent in Pakistan for 7 years. Moreover, he has been influential in sorting out all the air hijacking cases including the Kandhar IC-814 case. More recently, he
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is the man behind the successful surgical strikes. The PM makes sure he travels along with him on all his foreign visits. Nripendra Mishra Principal secretary to PM Narendra Modi, his is undoubtedly the most powerful bureaucrat’s post. From the 1967 IAS batch, Uttar Pradesh cadre, he retired as the chairman of TRAI. It is believed that PM Modi had to tweak some laws in order to get him into office because as per TRAI laws, a former chairman cannot hold government positions. Mishra is believed to be a very hard task master, known for his streak of perfectionism in all that he oversees. With a Master's degree from the John F. Kennedy School of Government, Harvard University (Public Administration), 1981, in Political Science & Public Administration and Chemistry, he is responsible for the communication between the PMO and all top bureaucrats. P.K. Mishra Additional principal secretary to the PM, he has been a trusted aide to Narendra Modi ever since he was CM of Gujarat. It is also believed that P.K. Mishra played an important role in changing the image of Narendra Modi post the Godhra riots. Dr. Mishra, a Gujarat Cadre IAS officer retired in 2008 but was offered important positions in the Gujarat Government and Central Government. It is believed that all the postings in the government are managed by him. Well known for his integrity and responsible nature,
it is owing to him that the era of transfer postings has come to an end. Mishra's earlier achievements include involvement in initiatives at the national level, like the Agriculture Development Programme and The National Food Security Mission (NFSM). P.K. Sinha An IAS officer of 1977 batch, UP cadre, Sinha is the 31st Cabinet Secretary of Independent India. A post graduate in Economics and alumni of St. Stephen’s College, New Delhi, he is known for electricity reforms in Uttar Pradesh where he worked for 30 years. Having held many powerful positions from the power portfolio to the shipping portfolio, his varied experience makes him a strong contender for his position. Officially, his retirement date is 2015, but he received 2 years extension and if everything goes well, he can get up to 4 years extension like his predecessors. Shaktikanta Das An IAS officer of the 1980 batch, Shaktikanta Das looked after the Department of Economic Affairs in the PMO. He was trusted with various responsibilities in the government in a long career spanning 37 years. An alumni from St. Stephens and JNU, he is credited with the industrialization in Tamil Nadu and has represented India in the World Bank and Asian Development Bank meets. His role in the Modi Government brought about changes in FDI and various tax laws. However, he retired recently on 30th May 2017. S. Jaishankar Dr. Subrahmanyam Jaishankar is the Foreign Secretary of India. He joined the Indian Foreign Services in 1977 and has served as Indian Ambassador to USA, China and Czech Republic. Responsible for the memorable visit of PM Modi to USA in 2014, he graduated from St. Stephen’s College, is a Masters in Political Science and PhD in International Relations from JNU. Son of the highly respected civil servant K. Subrahmanyam, Jaishankar’s key contributions involve improving Indo-China economic trade and
cultural relations. He has also played a major role in negotiating the Indo-US Civilian Nuclear Agreement. Amitabh Kant Amitabh Kant is currently the CEO of NITI (National Institution for Transforming India) Ayog, an Indian government initiative for fostering economic development in the country. An IAS from Kerala Cadre, he graduated in Economics from St. Stephen’s College and has an MA from JNU. The man behind the famous campaigns of Incredible India, Make in India and Startup India, he is also the catalyst in accelerating tourism in Kerala with the much acclaimed God’s Own Country campaign. The concept of “AtithiDevoBhavah” (Guest is God) campaign can also be attributed to him - it was executed to train taxi drivers, guides, immigration officials and make them stakeholders in the tourism development process. Much awarded for his creative thinking and far-reaching vision, Kant has authored Branding India - An Incredible Story. Hasmukh Adhiya A gold medalist from IIM Ahmedabad, he is an IAS (1981 batch), Gujarat Cadre. Currently, the Financial Services Secretary in the Central Government, he is supposedly the person behind the PM’s demonetization drive. He also holds a PhD in Yoga and is a key person responsible for the Karmyogi Abhiyan. A strong believer in equality, he has set up an e-mail id for whistleblowing on money laundering. He has authored several articles and books based on his experience as a bureaucrat. Bhaskar Khulbe An IAS from the West Bengal Cadre and currently secretary to PM Modi, he is apparently the highest paid amongst all the babus in the Modi Government. He is in charge of all work related to the cabinet secretariat and is also regarded as a key person for the BJP in the West Bengal assembly elections. Based on his experience and strong networking in Bengal, he is expected to be the torchbearer for the party’s success. n
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Turtuk
The Last Frontier Opened to tourists only in 2010, Turtuk in Leh is one of the three Balti villages in India. Arati Desai is mesmerised by her stay there, amid apricot and apple orchards
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ummer was upon us once again and the much sought after break was round the corner. We were a bit anxious though, when we planned our trip to Leh, as travelling with several kids on this unfamiliar terrain did have its challenges. Our road trip was to begin from Manali but an unexpected snowfall at the last moment changed our plans. So, we drove from Jammu to Srinagar to Kargil and then finally reached Leh. This first part of our road trip was an experience in itself. The beauty of Srinagar, the snow and mountains of Sonmarg and the army base and museum at Kargil and Drass mesmerized us completely. We reached Leh after 3 days, and that remained our base for a few days in order to explore nearby areas. Our trip included overnight stays at Pangong Tso, Nubra and Turtuk. Nubra and Pangong Tso Lake are pretty much on every tourist’s itinerary but not Turtuk, a unique
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gem of a village, relatively undiscovered by travellers to Leh. Before we headed to Nubra Valley and Turtuk, Leh had already fascinated us with its incredible landscape and peaceful people, each day trip bringing with it new experiences. Turtuk, located at almost 3000 m above sea level is approximately 210 Kms from Leh and a 2.5 hour drive from Diskit, Nubra Valley. The landscape, initially dry and barren, changed dramatically as we came closer to the village. Following the River Shyok, we reached Turtuk, a flat plateau, nestled between the Great Himalayas and endowed with green pastures and fields, under the gaze of the mighty snow-clad peaks of K2. Not many have heard of Turtuk as it was opened for civilians only in 2010. It is one of the only three
Balti villages in the country, and the only one open to tourists. Turtuk was part of Baltistan and then became a fraction of Pakistan after the partition of India in 1947. It was after the war of 1971 that India reclaimed this region again and the residents were given a choice to resettle in Pakistan or stay on in the village as a part of India. They stayed. The population therefore is predominantly Muslim, an exceptional feature in Leh where most are followers of Buddhism. This village of about 400 Balti families is also distinctive in terms of culture, language and landscape from the rest of Ladakh. They speak Ladakhi, Balti and Hindi. High cheekbones and aquiline features distinguish them from the rest of the people of this area. The locals claim that they are of Aryan descent with Central Asian and Tibetan roots. We stayed at Turtuk Holiday Camp and our host Mr. Rehmatullah Khan, remains one of the most gentle of people I have come across. Within his limited means, he showered us with hospitality in a manner that made us admire him and his staff’s enthusiasm to please us. Though simple, our tented
accommodation under apple, apricot and peach trees was breathtaking. Breakfast of hot kisser (local buckwheat pancakes) with tomato chutney and fresh fruit left us asking for more. When we asked to buy some buckwheat, we were denied as it was not for sale, and is grown only for their own consumption. We spent the next morning on a trek to the village. Rehmatullah Khan, guided us through the fields and up to the village which was on a bit of a hill. This stroll passed through the local school and allowed us to meet its beautiful and happy children. At the top of our climb was an old monastery. There are no Buddhists in this part of Ladakh and it is the locals who look after the monastery. From this gompa you can spot the military camps on the mountains above and a graveyard, as well as the remains of a Pakistani camp below. A glacier stream divides the village into two - Youl and Pharol. There is a hanging bridge, to
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cross over a lovely brook, which is adjacent to a war memorial honouring those who fought in the Kargil war. This was just one among the many tributes we encountered on this trip. The history of the village came alive when we passed barricades made out of jerry cans and boulders. Made by the Pakistani army, they bear evidence to a war that separated families. Several of the locals have families across the border. In this politically sensitive region, there is a mutual respect between the locals and the army, whose presence is huge in this far off village. At just 7Kms from the Pakistan border, Turtuk is the gateway to the Siachen Glacier, one of the country highest outpost camps. The locals aid the army by taking supplies up on mules to the outpost and this means of earning is used in turns by the local men. Apricots are the primary source of income, with 4 different varieties growing in the village. Cold storage facilities are homemade cabins made out of stones which keep the fruit fresh throughout the year. It was surprising to see that it was only the women and their teenage children who tended to the fields while the men who are mostly shepherds are seen chatting and relaxing. Apart from providing mules and porters to the army, the men tend to the apricot business.
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The history of the village came alive when we passed barricades made out of jerry cans and boulders. Made by the Pakistani army, they bear evidence to a war that separated families. Interestingly enough you will see more girls in the school than boys. Turtuk is also known in the valley for its craftsmen who make utensils out of stone and walking sticks out of the horns of the wild ibex. Our couple of days seemed too little in Turtuk, not for the lack of time to see new things but for the lack of time to simply be‌ Turtuk charmed us; it made us fall in love with its simple village of people, so warm and welcoming. It made us want to go back as soon as we came home and it still makes us look at our photo albums so very often. Cheers to the beauty of the people there and this village of Leh. Taking this detour from the regular tourist circuit, our encounter with this quaint village with its colourful flowers and rosy cheeked children was the best thing we did. Make sure you do it too. n (The best time to visit Turtuk is from July to September)
fashion
recreating the magic of a bygone era Presenting Bagicha, an exclusive collection from RAR Studio by Ritesh Aniket Rishav Each design in Bagicha is inspired by the royal splendour of Indian heritage textiles and architecture. With the magic of handloom weaves and natural hues, the outfits reflect pure craftsmanship.
Coordinated by Jigna Dutta
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mughal jaal Handwoven Saree with a Mughal jaal pattern and delicate detailing on the pallu. Intricate hand embroidered contrast blouse with handmade tassels. Earrings and Neckpiece by Raabta by Rahul @raabtabyrahul Price: On request
padma A peach high low Chanderi Anarkali with handwoven lotuses and embroidered neckline and sleeves, comes with an embellished net duppatta with beautiful handmade tassels. A floor length, mustard Anarkali with delicate hand embroidery, combined with an embellished net duppatta with beautiful handmade tassels. Bridal nose ring, Matha Patti, Mang tikka & Necklace by Raabta at Rahul@raabtabyrahul Prices: On request
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fashion
hawa mahal Maroon handwoven, Chanderi kurta has an intricate Hawa Mahal weave and hand embrodiery details along neckline. Comes with pleated Chanderi skirt and embellished net duppatta with beautiful handmade tassels. Beige handwoven Anarkali with woven motifs on each panel and hand embroidery details on body and sleeves. Comes with Chanderi skirt and embellished net duppatta. Earrings by Raabta by Rahul @ raabtabyrahul Price: On request
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gulaab bahar Chanderi Handwoven Anarkali with a beautiful tonal gradation and woven buttas on each panel and hand embroidery on body and sleeves. Comes with a pleated Chanderi skirt and embellished net duppatta with handmade tassels. Nose ring and Matha Patti by Raabta by Rahul @raabtabyrahul Price: On request
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Style File
Expert HAIR CARE & COLOURING TIPS Adhuna Bhabani, Founder and Creative Director of the famed celebrity-salon BBLUNT shares some of her valuable tips to control and colour those tresses this monsoon.
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t’s no secret that those who have curly locks wish for a straight mane and those with the latter feel their hair is too boring because it’s so straight. The first thing is to embrace the natural texture of your hair, instead of fighting it. If you’ve fought that battle and won it, the rest is easy to follow... Monsoon-frizz Products Most of us dread the monsoon due to mounting humidity in the air. The perfect answer to the absolute hair-havoc it causes is to keep a good anti-frizz leavein-cream handy to combat frizz, nourish, smoothen and protect your hair, leaving it soft and manageable! Our product range offers a very versatile Anti-Frizz Leave in cream called Climate Control which doesn’t weigh your hair down but enhances the natural texture of your hair. It is perfect not only for this time of the year but works all year round!
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For those with curly hair, we’ve not forgotten about you! BBLUNT’s High Definition Curl Defining Leave in Cream is the best way to show your curls some love. It adds shape and definition to your wavy mane whilst keeping it moisturized, protecting it from environmental damage and fixing frizz, all at the same time. Lastly, dry shampoo may still be new to India, but it’s an absolute must-have this monsoon, especially for those with constantly on-the-go busy lifestyles. It eliminates a greasy, sweaty scalp instantly refreshing and revamping your hair within seconds. It’s easy to use - just Shake, Spray and Rub it in for two minutes and Voila – Your hair’s Back to Life! We’re calling this our Dirty Little Secret that’s perfect to refresh second day hair, inbetween your routine hair wash, without using any water. Sssh! No one needs to know!
Hair Colour Trends With reference to colour, depending on what you fancy but more importantly what goes with your skin tone, you can choose from a variety of soft-warm browns like a Honey Caramel, Mahogany to Deep Burgundy or Wine, Rich Chocolates, Coffee Browns and vibrant reds that top the trends this year. Another colour trend to watch out for is Blue Black - it’s BIG for the festive season! If you are someone who likes your hair dark, you could try out this shade which is simply Black with a tint of Blue keeping it classic yet cool both at the same time. Hair colour contouring, Shadowed dark/ colourful pastel roots, Colour rose gold tones and Rainbow hair are some of the global trends that are popular at the moment on our salon floors BBLUNT. The popular colour palette that we’re working with comprises of an infused smoky grey, silver, lavender, lilacs, denim blues, Oil slick infused colours of dark blue, green and purple. Techniques are also varying between Baby lights, Sombre and Falmboyage depending on the shape, cut, natural hair texture and how subtle or bold the client wishes to be. n
Busting Colour Myths > Myth#1 Colouring your hair will make it go grey sooner: Grey hair is based on genes and lifestyle. Colouring does not accelerate the growth of grey hair. Sometimes when your colour fades, you may notice a grey strand of hair more prominently. This might make you believe that colouring causes grey hair. > Myth#2 Home Hair Colouring causes more damage v/s Professional Hair Colouring: I can imagine that at-home hair colouring kits are the go-to solutions for global
Quick Tips For Colouring > Select the right shade: Always select a shade that complements your skin tone and eye color – the result will be nothing short of gorgeous! It also helps to keep in mind the most predominant color in your wardrobe. > Ensure your hair is oil-free: Try keeping your hair clean from grease and grime before coloring your hair. Oil-free and dry hair is a prerequisite to hair coloring. > Go for the shine: Great color should go hand-in- hand with great shine. The shine is as important as the color itself. Most users opt for shine serums post hair color, but you can tell a quality colour product when it delivers lasting shine with the colour. > Avoid stains on your skin: Your professional stylist usually has this one covered but when choosing to DIY, you should apply Vaseline along your hairline and wear gloves to protect your hands to avoid staining, prior to coloring. > Never mix different hair dye products: When in doubt, consult an expert.
hair coverage for a majority of us especially mothers, so Salon Secret was created specially for moms who are constantly on the go – we understand that with all that you juggle, you don’t always find the time to go to a salon especially for a colour job. Don’t fret! I can safely say that if done correctly and carefully using a quality product, even a professional (like me!) can never be averse to at-home hair coloring. The easy access and reasonable price make this an increasingly considerable option and there are variety of trusted brands and shades to choose from. But remember, you can tell a good product when shine is as good and long lasting as the
hair colour itself. > Myth#3 Hair colour should change basis the season: Hair color is a very personal journey that shouldn’t be dictated by the season. If you’ve found the colour that works for you, there’s no harm in keeping it year-round. It’s better to have an end color in mind, and work toward achieving that versus changing 3-4 times a year just because the calendar says so. Making subtle changes to one’s shade is a good thing, but keeping to the calendar is asking for too much especially for us mums. A Burgundy looks just as great in December as in July.
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feature
Move over Swiss Alps,
Hello Fijian Islands
Sarah Hafeez on what is increasingly making Fiji an ideal, new hotspot for Indian filmmakers to shoot in...
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ith its aquamarine sea, coral reefs and sandy beaches, Fiji islands may soon emerge as the favourite shooting destination for Indian filmmakers. In 2011, Tamil film Ammali Tumaali was the first movie to be shot on the islands. This was followed by the Neil Nitin Mukesh-starrer, 3G, which was filmed in the luxurious Denarau beach resort and Suva and Sigatoka town. In 2013, Rajiv Khandelwal-starrer Table No 21, a psychological thriller, was filmed at the Pacific Harbour. Fiji is a Mecca for moviemakers who are constantly seeking scenic locations that have reliable weather patterns, a labour force that is easy to work with and
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government policies that promote and encourage investment. Tax rebates and incentives offered by the Fiji government have been instrumental in getting Bollywood to its shores. The government provides a 47% tax rebate, the highest in the world, to fullyfunded productions which can spend more than FJ$250,000. One Fijian dollar is close to 32 INR. Other incentives include exemption from paying duty for heavy equipment brought in for filming purposes and competitive minimum wage rates. Hours and terms of employment are negotiable directly with local crew, as the film industry in Fiji is not unionised. Fiji’s government hopes that the popularity of Fiji’s
locales in Bollywood cinema would generate more tourism for the islands just as it did for New Zealand and Australia some years ago. Senior Fiji diplomats came together for a filmmakers’ forum in Mumbai in March this year to showcase their world that goes beyond the sparkling stretches of turquoise water and palm fringed beaches to encompass tropical rainforests, lagoons, diving spots and other pristine sites that are relatively unexplored. Aiyaz Sayed Khaiyum, attorney-general and minister for economy, public enterprises, civil service and communications, said, “Tourism is a major stake for our country. The government took a strategic decision a few years ago to make a number of changes in terms of liberalising the economy and also identifying sectors that position us well in growing our economy and providing employment. Visa is on arrival at Fiji; we plan to sign various agreements in Mumbai with Indian airlines to offer seamless travel.” “With over 40% of the Fiji population being that of Indian heritage, shooting in Fiji will feel like
home,” promised Dallas Foon, CEO of Film Fiji. Like Mauritius, Fiji too shares the history of Girmitiyas or indentured labourers transported from British India to work on sugarcane plantations. Last year, the island celebrated 100 years since the arrival of the last immigrant ship carrying indentured Indians to the island, but there’s plenty of reason for Bollywood now to ready their sails. Fijians are naturally excited, as they’ll get the opportunity to see some Bollywood stars, and it will also lead to employment opportunities for them and give a boost to the local economy.
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feature
Fiji’s long-standing association with Hollywood For over 80 years, Fiji has featured prominently in Hollywood right from blockbuster movies such as Castaway starring Tom Hanks to reality television series such as Survivor. Hollywood’s love affair with Fiji started in 1932 when Douglas Fairbanks Snr starred in Mr Robinson Crusoe that was shot in the islands. A few years later, this was followed by Blue Lagoon that was filmed on Sawa-i-lau in the Yasawas. In 1953, the 50s icon Burt Lancaster starred in His Majesty O’Keefe. The film’s principal locations were the mainland in Deuba, Pacific Harbour, the Grand Pacific Hotel and Cummings Street, Suva. The Joseph Bottom-1974-starrer The Dove, produced by Gregory Peck, was set on the mainland in Lami. In 1979 the remake of The Blue Lagoon, starring Brooke Shields and Leo McKern, was filmed in Nanuya Levu, Yasawa. In 1992, the sequel of this romantic tragedy, Return to the Blue Lagoon, starring Milla Jovavich and Brian Krause, was filmed in the northern region of Fiji, Taveuni, that is known as ‘The Garden Isle of Fiji,’. Veteran actor Tommy Lee Jones starred in Savage Island, set in Pacific Harbour just out of Suva, in 1983. In 1995-96, the remake of Swiss Family Robinson as a TV series, starring Richard Thomas, was shot on
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Though Fiji is an archipelago of 330 islands, only 110 are permanently inhabited. Blue Lagoon’s private island, Nanuya Lai Lai and in 1996 the original movie Contact starring Jodie Foster was also located in the Yasawa island group. The year 2000 saw the filming of the blockbuster Castaway produced by and starring Tom Hanks. The location was Monu-riki-Island in the Mamanucas, a fabulous group of islands in the western region. Anacondas: The Hunt for the Blood Orchid was filmed again in Pacific Harbour on the mainland in 2004. In 2007 the 14th edition of the television series Survivor was filmed at Vunivutu in Vanua Levu, Fiji’s second largest island. Fiji’s famous film locations Though Fiji is an archipelago of 330 islands, only 110 are permanently inhabited. Here are some of the most exquisite destinations among the islands: The Yasawa Islands Some big films have been shot on the Yasawa Islands, dating right back to the 1930s. One of the most notable films, the 1949 flick The Blue Lagoon, was shot on the island of Sawa-i-lau. Years later, the remake was filmed on Nanuya Levu in the Yasawas.
The Yasawa Islands are renowned for their untouched beauty. There's less commercialisation here, making it an attractive destination for intrepid travellers. The Mamanucas One of the biggest films ever to be shot in Fiji was Castaway. It was filmed on the beautiful Monuriki Island, which is part of the Mamanucas group. While many of the Mamanuca Islands are brimming with resorts and facilities for tourists, Monuriki Island is tiny and uninhabited, much like you see in the film. Surrounded by a gorgeous coral reef and lagoons, it's home to some pristine, white sandy beaches. It also hosts some rare wildlife. You can take a guided tour to the island, where you'll be shown some of the most significant locations from the movie, and your guide will explain a bit about the 'making of'. It's interesting to hear how an entire film crew managed to get to the island and deal with the conditions! You'll also have a chance to explore, swim and snorkel around the gorgeous islet. Viti Levu, the mainland In 1954, silver screen legend Burt Lancaster made his way to Fiji's main island of Vitu Levu for the film His Majesty O'Keefe. This area is famed for its many adventurous pursuits, with activities such as shark feeding, off-roading and surfing popular. Natural, rugged beauty is abundant here.
Fiji At A Glance
A majority of Fiji's islands were formed through volcanic activity starting around 150 million years ago. Today, some geothermal activity still occurs on the islands of Vanua Levu and Taveuni. Fiji has been inhabited since the second millennium BC. The British established the Colony of Fiji in 1874. Fiji was a Crown colony until 1970, when it gained independence as a Commonwealth realm. A republic was declared in 1987, following a series of coups d'ĂŠtat. While indigenous Fijian culture and traditions are very vibrant and are integral components of everyday life for the majority of Fiji's population, the island culture is a rich mosaic of indigenous Fijian, Indo-Fijian, Asian and European traditions.
Suva has also been the backdrop for many films. Part of His Majesty O'Keefe was shot as the historic Grand Pacific Hotel, which stands on Victoria Parade. This hotel is now over 100 years old and is planning to reopen after extensive renovations and restoration this year. Be sure to take a stroll down the famous Cumming Street, one of Suva's most bustling destinations, which was also one of the locations of His Majesty O'Keefe. With a mix of colonial and modern buildings, plenty of clothing, jewellery and technology shops plus a whole host of eateries, this is one not-to-bemissed destination. And with so much on offer, Indian filmmakers are sure to continue using Fiji’s shores as a stunning backdrop for their dreams on celluloid. n
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interview
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“food is feelings transferred onto the plate...” Abid Mohammed talks to Chef Ranveer Brar to find out how he found his true calling
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uthor, TV show host, judge for cookery shows and food stylist are a few hats that Chef Ranveer Brar juggles successfully apart from creating magic in the kitchen. At 25 he was the youngest executive chef to have ever worked with a five-star hotel in India. His passion, determination and his skills have today made him a household name. The host of various successful TV shows like Ranveer On The Road, an exclusive Twitter video series which is on to its second season at present, a reality show on Living Foodz, The Great Indian Rasoi Seasons 1 & 2, Breakfast Xpress, Snack Attack, Health Bhi Taste Bhi, Home Made, Ranveer’s Cafe, Food Tripping along with Chef Gautam Mehrishi, he was also one of the judges for season 4 of MasterChef India, alongwith Sanjeev Kapoor and Vikas Khanna. Ranveer has recently ventured into the hospitality business with the launch of his restaurants - Mayura, TAG Gourmart Kitchen and English Vinglish, a premium vegetarian patisserie chain, while also overseeing the opening of FLYP at MTV’s new outlet in Mumbai. A quick chat with him reveals more...
As a child were you fussy about food? Not really! Growing up on a farm instilled in me a strong appreciation for food and its origins. And with my Biji (who strictly disapproved food wastage) the menu was straightforward – take it or leave it! Is there a food that you hate? Hate would be a strong expression. Cannot think of a food that I would put in that category. When did you decide to become a Chef? At the age of fifteen, when I cooked rajma for my mom for the first time, I realised that food was my true calling. Up until then I had been going through the different stages of food appreciation, connecting with it at different levels, from enjoying different cuisines at my neighbours’ homes, to exploring the street food of Lucknow or conversations with the local grocer. But that one exercise (cooking for mom) which earned plaudits from my father sealed the deal! What was your family’s reaction to your wanting to be a chef? It was pretty much like lighting a match in a room
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full of hay! Hailing from a family of landlords, the idea of pursuing cooking as a profession was quite unacceptable and suffice to say my proposal did not meet with approval. Was there anything that you thought you wanted to do before you started cooking? Fine arts intrigued me. I wanted to be a painter; at times a photographer too. I still pursue those passions when I get time. Which talent would you most like to have that you don’t possess? I would love to learn to play the flute. It’s really fascinating to see what breath can do. And flute is a perfect example of how breath can mesmerise. Where did you train to cook? My initiation to cooking was quite unexpected. I used to frequent the Langar at the local Gurudwara every Sunday. Once someone spotted me and called me in to cook! I prepared Meethe Chawal for the first time which for some divine reason, actually turned out well. I was thirteen then. After I decided to pursue cooking as a life purpose, I joined Munir Ustad, a skilled and one of the oldest Kebab vendors in Lucknow, as an apprentice for about six months. I then went on to pursue a more formal degree at IHM, Lucknow. How would you describe your style of cooking? I would call it experiential and progressive. For me food is feelings transferred onto the plate, I just put on a plate what I feel. Experiences from my travel, places I visit,
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“The Dora Kebab is my favourite to cook. It’s delicately flavoured with khus and sandalwood and cooked on a silken thread.”
cuisines I explore, I try to interpret them into my dishes. Do you have a signature dish or favourite dish you enjoy cooking? The Dora Kebab is my favourite to cook. It’s delicately flavoured with khus and sandalwood and cooked on a silken thread. What trends are you seeing in food today, and which are you most excited by? Researching and rediscovering forgotten cuisines, backto-roots ingredients and dishes and farm-to-table are trends that I definitely find positive. Also, entertaining at home vis-à-vis ordering in or eating out is gaining more favour with people.
Are there any ingredients that have fallen out of fashion for you? I would say quite a lot of molecular stuff has fallen out of fashion. It’s good to see people going back to where they started from - simplicity of food; and I find that both encouraging and beautiful. What projects of yours are currently in progress? Lots going on at the moment! Earlier this year I opened a restaurant chain with awadhi flavours called Mayura, with the first outlet in Greater Toronto Area, Canada. Last year my first restaurant opened in Mumbai, called TAG:Gourmart Kitchen, which is an all vegetarian outing. English Vinglish, a premium vegetarian patisserie chain opened its latest and third outlet in Jaipur this June. Being the culinary director of Funbars Hospitality, I am also presently overseeing the opening of FLYP at MTV’s new outlet in Mumbai. In the visual space, I am judging a reality show on Living Foodz and part of a food documentary on another channel that is to begin soon. One of my pet projects is Ranveer On The Road, an exclusive Twitter video series which is into its second season at present and I am exploring Turkey for its third outing as we speak! Tell us about your new restaurant? TAG Gourmart Kitchen is an artist’s space; both in the kitchen and the studio. TAG, which stands for ‘The Amateur Gallery’ supports and showcases work by upcoming artists, while on the other level, the restaurant features gourmet vegetarian fare. Here I play with ingredients to create and recreate dishes that would typically be associated with meat, paired with the perfect wine. Mayura on the other hand highlights awadhi flavours, a cuisine close to my heart and roots. It aims to holistically create
a menu that excites a diner’s senses. Tell us about your TV show? The reality show currently airing on Living Foodz is called Femme Foodies, Asia’s first Food Truck based show. Raja Rasoi’s new season is set to begin in July on EPIC, which will transition viewers away from the typical counter-top cooking to more of a conversational exploration where I experiment with and deconstruct old and new flavours. You recently launched your Book. Do tell us a bit about it. Come Into My Kitchen, my debut as an author was my way of taking readers through my life journey, especially the culinary aspect of it. My favourite part of the book is my self-evolved concept of a food pyramid that I call ‘Ranveer’s Hierarchy of Taste’. It breaks down the reaction of our senses and their perception towards food at different stages. Is there another chef you most admire? Heston Blumenthal and Charlie Trotter inspire me greatly. Above all, I learn something new from every person I meet in my travels. What should people eat in monsoons? Monsoons tend to veer us towards spicy and fried food. But it’s also a time when our digestive system is at its vulnerable best due to high humidity. It’s ideal to eat light, eat safe, stay hydrated and include Vitamin-rich (especially Vitamin C) foods in the diet to boost immunity. What’s your favourite street food? Kebabs in Lucknow, Kulla chaat in Delhi, Tele Bhaja in Kolkata and currently, Stuffed Mussels and Kestane or roasted chestnuts in Turkey! What is your favourite food-city? I would say it’s a tie between Lucknow and Kolkata. n
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Tech talk legal eagle
Megha Chitaliya is A.G.P., Gujarat High Court and a renowned social activist
Marriages: Made In
Heaven, Maintained on Earth With over a million Muslims, mainly women having signed a petition against the practice of triple talaq, Megha Chitaliya sheds light on the marital rights of women belonging to different religions
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ncient Hindu law conceived marriage as a sacramental union, implying that it is permanent and cannot be dissolved not merely in this life but even beyond, in the other world! Our current Hindu Marriage Act does pick up the threads from this belief, though not in so many words. Talking of Hindu marriage as contemplated by the Constitutional Act, it is essential that they be solemnized with customary rites and ceremonies of one of the two parties. Section 5 of the Hindu marriage Act lays down the conditions for a valid marriage which includes monogamy, mental capacity which means that no partner at the time of marriage is suffering from mental disorders or epilepsy. Another important feature is the age - the bridegroom must have completed 21 years and the bride 18 years of age. Child marriage is prohibited. Section 7 of the Act dealing with ceremonies gives statutory recognition to marriage. The registration of marriage is also necessary under section 8 but just the registration of marriage will not ipso facto make the marriage valid, if it is otherwise invalid. Section 9 gives a right to restitution of conjugal rights. When either the husband or the wife has,
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without reasonable excuse, withdrawn from the society of the other, the latter may apply to the court for restitution of conjugal rights. The texts of Hindu law recognised in principle that marriage is a union of two souls and mutual fidelity should continue until death. In 1983, however, the Supreme Court held that the order of restitution of conjugal rights is a violation of an individual’s right to privacy. It denies the woman a free choice as to whether, when and how her body is to become the vehicle for procreation of another human being. Section 10 of the Act allows either spouse to obtain judicial separation and provides a procedure for the same. The several grounds for judicial separation are adultery, cruelty, conversion, desertion, unsound mind, incurable leprosy, failure to comply with the decree of restitution of conjugal rights etc. In addition to these a Hindu wife specifically, may invoke separation for the following special grounds too - remarriage by husband, husband found guilty of rape, sodomy, non resumption of cohabitation in spite of a decree of maintenance of wife.
However, even after a judicial separation the wife does not lose her right as a Hindu wife. The aim of this provision is to save ‘family life’ and to give time to the spouses for reconciliation. This provision places a Hindu wife on a higher pedestal compared to a Muslim or Christian wife. In one such case the husband died after obtaining the decree of judicial separation. Even so, the Supreme Court held that the wife is a legal heir of the husband and so has a right on the property of the late husband. Though living separately, they are still husband and wife. A decree of divorce, dissolving the marriage is obtained on the grounds provided in section 13 of the Act. Grounds provided to a Hindu wife under section 13 are similar to section 10 of the Hindu marriage act. What is the distinction between divorce and judicial separation? Put briefly, in a decree of divorce the separation is absolute and final, whereas a judicial separation does not itself result in dissolution of the marriage. The separation is not absolute and the marriage ties continue to subsist. When a marriage has broken down beyond any possibility of repair the courts have no option but to dissolve the marriage. If both parties are willing for a divorce, then the court passes an order under section 13 B. If after filing a petition under section 13 B, the wife withdraws her consent for divorce, the marriage cannot be dissolved. Muslim Law The Arabic world Nikaah means”contract for the purpose of legalising sexual intercourse and procreation of children”. Marriage, according to the Mohammedan law, is not a sacrament like the Hindu conception of marriage, but a civil contract. All rights and duties in marriage arise immediately after the marriage is completed. A boy or girl who has attained puberty and is of sound mind may enter into a contract of marriage.
It is generally presumed that a person who has completed 15 years of age has attained puberty. For the Shias, puberty begins with menstruation. In case a girl has married as a minor, she is entitled to a dissolution of her marriage if she proves that the marriage has not been consummated or that she repudiated the marriage before she turned 18 years or that she was given in marriage by her father and the marriage was consummated before she turned 15. Consummation of marriage before the age of puberty does not deprive the wife of this option. The Hindu law prescribes an age limit as opposed to Mohammedan law where no age is specified. There are certain formalities for contracting a valid marriage and if any of these requirements is not fulfilled, the marriage becomes either void or irregular. These three essentials are: a) proposal and acceptance in the presence of witnesses, b) competent parties, c) no legal disability. Dower is an integral feature of a Muslim marriage. Money or property is given by the husband in consideration of marriage. The dower may be fixed either before or at the time of or after the marriage. The reason for fixing a high amount of dower is to prevent the husband from divorcing his wife, in which case the husband must pay the dower amount. If the dower is not paid and the marriage has not been consummated, the wife has the right to refuse to cohabit with husband. Dower is an unsecured debt which is recoverable by the wife or widow
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legal eagle
or divorcee or her heirs, from the husband when alive or from his assets when he is dead. She is like any other unsecured creditor. If the widow is in actual possession of the property of the deceased husband, she is entitled to retain it until her dower is paid. The right of retention however does not give her any title to the property. The parties can modify or rescind any condition at any time they like because of the nature of the marriage - it being a civil contract. Post nuptial conditions added must not be unreasonable or illegal. As it is a contract, conditions may be laid down in the agreement. Islam gives extraordinary civil rights to a woman. If the man demands that the wife shall not be entitled to any dower, such condition is illegal. The condition that the husband will not torture his wife, her relatives and parents, physically or mentally would be valid. Thus, Muslim women can set any conditions, at the time of entering into the marriage. What is called a Muta Marriage is for a temporary but fixed period, specifying dower. It is basically for pleasure and the marriage is dissolved on the expiry of the fixed period or by mutual consent or death. In a Muta marriage the wife has no right of maintenance. Registration of a Mohammedan marriage is not generally compulsory in India but has been made compulsory in a few states by legislative enactment. Also, though the Right to restitution of conjugal rights is available to both parties, it is the husband mostly who uses this right. The wife can contest it on the following grounds: Legal cruelty: A husband’s second marriage may in certain circumstances, involve cruelty to his 1st
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Muslim marriage marriage
versus
Hindu
- A Muslim marriage is a civil contract, while a Hindu marriage is a sacrament. - Payment is essential in Muslim law while Hindu law does not permit it. - According to Muslim law, a woman does not merge her existence into that of her husband while a Hindu wife becomes her husband’s helpmate not only in all worldly affairs but also in performance of regular sacrifice. - Under Mohammedan law, a husband can have four wives at a time whereas the Hindu marriage Act prohibits polygamy
wife, justifying her refusal to live with him. In 1993 in the case of Anis Begum, the court allowed restitution of conjugal rights were an arrangement was made for separate residence and maintenance of the wife, because the husband had more wives. Non-payment of prompt dower is also reason for refusal of conjugal rights by wife. This defence will not overthrow the suit for restitution but if the marriage has been consummated, a decree conditional on the payment may be passed. Going further, there are two schools in Muslim laws: the Shia and the Sunni and there are some differences regarding marriage in the two sects. The Sunnis do not legally recognise a Muta marriage, witnesses are essentially required at the time of marriage, but are not required at the time of divorce, a minimum limit of dower is prescribed but no maximum limit and some part of the dower is to be paid promptly. For the Shias the Muta Marriage is legal, witness are not essentially required at the time of marriage, but two witnesses are required for divorce, no minimum limit is prescribed for dower but the maximum limit is 500 dirham and the payment of dower is to be made immediately and without any conditions. n
book review
The war within and without Title: The Sympathizer Author: Viet Thanh Nguyen Publisher: Corsair pages: 367 The Vietnam war in popular perception has been projected as an America centric war. The Sympathizer is a remarkable, pathbreaking novel written by a Vietnamese raised in America. It won the 2016 Pulitzer prize among others, bringing with it a different perspective of the war. It can be read as a spy novel, an immigrant novel, a political novel, a novel of ideas, a novel about the movies or an artful mixture of the reimagining of the Vietnam war and its interwoven private and public outcomes. The plot and themes are not simple as many issues have been dealt with together. Written in masterful prose, it is witty and elegant and goes beyond its historical context to cover universal themes such as the misunderstandings between the East and the West and moral dilemmas faced by mankind - not just between right and wrong but between right and right. The protagonist is a nameless person called captain. He is an Americanised Vietnamese with a divided heart and mind. He loves his Vietnamese mother and hates his French Catholic priest father who has never called him ‘son’ or even by his name. In class he called him just “You”. Then there is captain’s love- hate relationship with his adopted country, America. The dualities are established in the very opening of the novel as it begins with “I am a spy, a spook, a man of two faces, also a man of two minds, able to see any issue from both sides.” An ‘ aide de camp’ for the General Chief of North Vietnam’s National Police, he is also a communist undercover agent. His handler is a north Vietnamese communist called Manwho who is also his blood brother and high school friend. His other blood brother and high school friend is Bon, an assassin with the CIA’s
Phoenix Program, a genuine patriot who volunteered to fight the communists. This complex relationship of the narrator with conflicting loyalties is a recipe for the tragic events of betrayal that follow. Nguyen presents a gripping picture of Saigon’s fall, of terror and chaos as the narrator, the general and his extended family flee the country when shell fire from the Viet Cong and north Vietnamese comrades attacks them. Bon loses his wife and child even before the plane takes off. What follows is their life as refugees in America. Captain lives the life of a refugee and a spy in LA where he works in a clerical job with his old professor. He finds a love interest in Miss Mori, a Japanese-American woman while he keeps sending undercover messages to Man. His life as a refugee is an account of the 1970’s and 80’s immigrant life - its nostalgia and generational conflicts amid the ambience of liquor stores and ethnic restaurants. He remains in close contact with the General, his plans of a counter revolution fuelled by a paranoia about the existence of spies. He also gets involved in movie making. Hollywood movie makers keen to capitalize on the box office opportunity of an exotic war movie get the narrator to provide authenticity for which he goes to the Phillipines where the movie is being shot. The last part of the book takes a very dark turn with the extensive examination of torture in real life. There are many physical methods of torture but Nguyen chooses to concentrate on various inhuman forms of twisted psychological abuse. There have not been many examples of writing that illustrate so distinctly how a tyrant bereft of all humane constraint can reduce a man’s mind to naught. In Nguyen’s sprawling novel he above all writes about the loneliness of human life, the cost of fraternity and the tragic limits of sympathy. n Review by Usha Chadda
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Travelogue
Paradise Found! Gita Viswanath brings us a first hand account of the bewitching beaches and awe-inspiring islands in Thailand, an ideal holiday destination, no matter the kind of tourist you may be
W
e – a group of twelve with two infants – landed in Koh Samui one June afternoon. On arrival, at least five in the group exclaimed simultaneously, “How cute!” We were referring to the airport – clearly
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the cutest international airport any of us had seen during our travels. The mugginess in the atmosphere was quickly forgotten in the adorable environs of the airport. Ceilings with teak wood beams running across and banana tree trunk pillars holding up the
roof pointed to the use of vernacular architecture. The small, open air airport owned by Bangkok Airways, operational from April 1989, resembled a cottage one would like to unwind in. Koh Samui, also known as Coconut Island, is Thailand’s second largest island that is situated in the Gulf of Thailand. Well known for its beaches, Koh (island in Thai) Samui, offers a variety. From the lively Chaweng and Lamai Beaches with restaurants and water sport facilities to the quiet, isolated Ban Tai beach, the island has it all. Whether you are a luxury tourist that prefers to stay in villas or a backpacker game for putting up in a beach side shack, Koh Samui satisfies all kinds of travellers. The story of Koh Samui goes back to the 1800s when the island was used by sailors, traders and fishermen as a place to take shelter during a storm. Gradually, the sailors, mostly Chinese and Malays, attracted by its lush vegetation and easy availability of a wide variety of fish began to settle down on the island. As they prospered, word spread to the mainland about the bountiful coconut plantations, tropical fruits such as durian, mangoes and water melons growing wild, the mainlanders began to make the six to seven hour boat ride to reach the island and established their homes there along with the Chinese and Malays. It was only when Koh Samui got its first road in 1967, that small numbers of tourists from the West looking for off-the-beaten-track destinations started arriving here. Slowly and steadily the numbers increased and Koh Samui came to be known as a pristine, untouched part of the world. Today, the island has a fair number of resorts, restaurants and massage parlours to please a visitor. Fortunately it is still not as touristy as Thailand’s better known destinations such as Bangkok, Phuket and Pattaya. This 228.7 square kilometer island boasts of some of the world’s best beaches with their clean, white sands and swaying coconut palms. The best known is Chaweng beach that offers great opportunities for swimming with the water being shallow for up to a kilometer or so. While a few of us went swimming, some sat back on the soft sand to watch our babies
building sand castles. As the sun put up its breath taking spectacle, the atmosphere on the beach changed to accommodate young revelers pouring in for the DJ parties in the bars that dot the shore. As we were about to leave the beach, we noticed a mother coaxing her little boy to pee into the sea. We asked our swimmers to return quickly until one of them joked, ‘What makes you think I didn’t do it?’ Well, well! Koh Samui is the base for several islands such as Koh Phangan known for its full moon parties, Koh Tao, the Turtle Island and Angthong National Marine Park. Thailand’s rock formations springing up in the middle of the sea are sheer visual treats. The majestic rocks of various shapes with rich foliage on them stand testimony to the magnificence of nature. On a speed boat ride to uninhabited islands, we were witness to these beauties that can leave anyone spell bound. The older ones in the group could not help but associate the speed boat with Robert, his gang of smugglers and his Mona darling! A friendly boat driver and two guides took us on a day long visit to far flung, isolated islands such as Koh Wa Noi, Koh Ka and even Koh Hanuman (also known as Monkey Island) which gets its name from its shape. These islands are tiny, full of vegetation and inaccessible. However, the boat anchored on other islands which have slivers of sandy beaches where swimming is allowed. Huge rocky cave like structures dot the shores of these islands. Swimmers beware! You might hit your head against these sharp rocks as you are staring at the skies while doing a languorous backstroke! We were also taken to a spot known to be the best for snorkeling. A thriving, throbbing life surely exists under the calm of the sea! Shoals of angel fish swam around our ankles, sea urchins (which our boatman said were delicious!) hid behind coral reefs and all sorts of vegetation sprouting from the ash coloured sea bed in innumerable shades of green delighted our senses. The icing on the cake was a short trek up steep inclines to take a look at the wondrous lagoon, emerald green in colour. The lake is tightly enclosed within tall rock formations with no outlet - as if it is held protectively the way parents guard their infants on the beach. A deep sense of
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calm and wonder fills you as you gaze at the still, green water body that looks more like a painting. Koh Samui is not all about beaches. It also houses old temples and a magnificent 12 meter high Buddha statue that offers panoramic views of the sea. The area around is lined with lively shops selling T shirts, beach wear and souvenirs. A tiny lake adds to the picturesque look of this place. To the kids’ delight, a kind, old boatman offered them a joy ride on his
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catamaran. It’s the people we come across during our travels that add as much value as the places we see. For those with a fascination for the unusual, there is the mummified monk at Wat Khunaram. A small temple here is dedicated to a monk called Loung Pordaeng, revered among the locals in Koh Samui for his meditation skills. He is believed to have instructed his followers to preserve his body in a glass casket if
it did not decompose. He passed on in 1973 at the age of 79 and his body sits till today in an upright position in a glass case in the temple. We saw several devotees offering flowers and incense sticks. A pair of dark glasses has been placed to cover his dried up eyeballs. The beauty of Koh Samui lies in its diverse topography. Wooded hills surround the sea making this island truly picture perfect. The Khao Pom Mountain located in the central part of the island peaks at 635 meters. A winding road takes you up to a children’s park with clay dinosaurs, giraffes and other animals that amused our kids. On the way, there is a spectacular waterfall named Na Muang. To reach it, one requires good footwear and a strong pair of legs! The night markets of Thailand are by now legendary. Koh Samui has a lot to choose from too. Enchanting and lively, these night markets bustle with food stalls selling stuff that could turn a Michelin chef green with envy. An array of seafood, pork and meat vie with each other for the gourmet’s attention. The three vegetarians amongst us had to be content with pizza and ice-cream though! Among the numerous night markets, the Friday Market at Fisherman’s Village in Bophut has a charm entirely its own. With its time honoured links to the fishermen who migrated here from the island of Hainan in southern China, this market retains the wooden houses and shops built by the migrant Chinese. It is home to several artists’ studios as well and a walk through Fisherman’s Village is an aesthetic experience. We
met an artist from Nepal who has made Bophut his home for several years. He was painting on canvas with a Mehendi cone! Such are the ways art practices traverse borders. An evening before departure was dedicated to the world famous Thai massage without which the holiday would have been incomplete. Prone on tables under which was placed glass jars with multi-hued fish, we subjected our weary bodies to the hot stones used in a classic Thai massage. And when the masseur twisted our limbs till we thought they would break, we felt we had touched the stars. There’s something about the last day of a vacation. Infused with a sense of an ending and the blues of getting back to work, the day was characterized by each one scuttling around packing up ensuring nothing was gifted to the villa. Three amongst us vanished for a while for one last look at the beach just behind our villa. Unlike its more famous companions, Ban Tai beach is quiet, and serene. The sound of the waves lashing the shore and a distant boatman’s oars cutting the waters created an unmatched symphony. As the sun lit up the distant Koh Phangan island on the other side of the sea with its last rays, shades of red, orange, gold and yellow competed with each other to colour the sky and the water. We stood in complete silence and gaped open mouthed at the sun’s performance. Early next morning, when we boarded the plane, we seemed to have imbibed some of the calm of Ban Tai Beach. n
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recipes
Chef Ranveer Brar shares his recipes with Feelings Magazine
Thai Corn and Sweet Potato Falafel
Preparation time 15 mins Cooking time 10 mins Serves 2
Ingredients
2 cups sweet corn, boiled and coarsely blended 1 cup sweet potato, boiled and mashed 1 tbsp thai red curry paste 1 tbsp, kaffir lime leaves, sliced thinly 1 tsp garlic powder Salt to taste ½ tsp red chilli powder (optional) 2 tbsp olive oil
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Process
In mixing bowl add sweet corn, potatoes, red thai curry paste, kaffir lime leaves, garlic powder, salt and red chilli powder. Mix well and make small size patties. Add olive oil in a pan and shallow fry all the patties until they turn golden on the surface. Remove and drain excess oil on kitchen towels. Serve with thai peanut sauce.
Veg Rice Paper Roll
Ingredients
2 sheets rice paper ½ red bell pepper, thinly sliced ½ English cucumber/ desi cucumber, thinly sliced ½ cup thinly sliced red cabbage ¼ medium mango, thinly sliced ½ green apple, thinly sliced 1 package of rice noodles 2 tbsp Sambal sauce to serve
Process
First, start by soaking the kelp/rice noodles in warm water while you're prepping all your veggies. They'll gradually soften (still al dente) while you're getting ready to assemble. Using a large bowl of warm water, gently dip 1 rice paper at a time. On a clean surface like a cutting board, lay flat the softened rice paper then start laying the thinly sliced vegetables and fruit in the lower ⅓ and center of the rice paper. Using your hands, gently fold the sides towards the center (similar to rolling a burrito), then roll from the bottom up tightly rolling the rice paper around the fillings. Continue until it's rolled. For the sauce, simply stir together and dip the spring roll in and enjoy. Immediately enjoy or keep in the fridge for up to 1 day.
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fortune teller
Bejan Daruwalla is a well- known Astrologer and Author
Monthly predictions august 2017 Know what the stars have in store for you from none other than Bejan Daruwalla, the most popular Indian astrologer who has also authored hundreds of books on the topic Aries (21st March to 20th April) You will be eager to bolster your finances and trim expenses. Introspect and remodel your strategy to close the weak links. Roadblocks could dishearten you but do not get worked up about petty matters. It is advisable you pump in some creativity to finish tasks within the scheduled time. In domestic matters, you could be wrongly blamed for something. Matters will automatically settle themselves, once truth comes to the fore. Taurus (21st April to 21st May) If you are looking to increase your revenue streams, take heart. Opportunities to earn extra money will arise. You will be inspired to follow creative pursuits like music, dance, drama and painting. This also seems like a good time to brush up your
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communication skills. In coming days, you may have to work your way up through trying conditions. But have hope! The stars look good ahead. Resolve differences amicably in close relationships. Gemini (22nd May to 21st June) You will be eager to formulate strategies that are effective, thorough and action-oriented. Spend with discretion, as the stars do not seem auspicious for you take any financial risks. As the month draws to a close, there will be an increased inflow of money. Your day-to-day expenditure will be eased. Professionals will come across more openings to utilize their potential. You may get an enjoyable outstation assignment. Cancer (22nd June to 22nd July) At the beginning of August, you will seek solutions for the
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wrongs that you are experiencing and try to resolve the emotional pain that has been bothering you for some time. Do not ignore these sentiments because they can flare up severely at a later stage and can affect your equanimity. On the positive side, there is a strong possibility of inheriting some wealth. Long pending issues pertaining to family may get resolved due to change in perspective. Leo (23rd July to 22nd August) You will seek secrets for stronger and healthier relationships. Higher growth will now become your top priority. The rewards for your committed effort will follow in due course of time. Money may become a bit of a tight squeeze. It is not that you earn less, but your habit of spending lavishly
without keeping an eye on your budget depletes your finances considerably. Also, do not boast about your achievements. Instead, be modest! Virgo (23rd August to 22nd September) Your eyes are set on winning over rivals and achieving success. You wish to thrive and flourish, not just survive. The stars may assist you to some extent. An urge to undertake charity work may engulf you. However, ensure you do not go overboard in spending or borrowing money to meet your commitment. Employed ones need to cautious about relationships with coworkers. Libra (23rd September to 22nd October) The moon will have strong bearings on you at the beginning. On the positive side, businessmen and professionals will have important gains by securing a long awaited deal with high worth customers. Another positive is about an old disagreement with an influential person getting amicably resolved now. Mid-month, lack of effective communication with somebody significant could harm long term prospects. Flaring of emotions also need to effectively checked. Refrain from getting too offensive and inconsiderate. Scorpio (23rd October to 22nd November)
The big task ahead of you this month is to break the shackles of fear and limitations. Refrain from taking any major decisions related to finance for now. You may incur some unexpected expenses on a religious ceremony. Retrograde Mercury here could adversely affect a meaningful relationship. As the month ends, you will be motivated to perform optimally. You might have to garner all your patience though to make it a smooth run. Sagittarius (23rd November to 21st December) Be prepared this month to come out of your comfort zone and take risks. As you go along you will realize that great opportunities often come from risk-taking. Be prepared to accept new challenges for pushing forward your prospects and also to undertake long distance travel. Weigh all breaks and options before taking the plunge, so that you do not have any regrets later. Remember: Better safe than sorry. Capricorn (22nd December to 20th January) This month, you will be eager to come up with new ideas to keep operations, products and services fresh and booming. Even so, your family’s well-being will always remain your priority.
It would be great if you could introspect on your game plan in life. Gain through inheritance seems to be in the pipeline. You could loosen up a bit and relax, recommends Ganesha. Hard work accompanied by hard play can provide the perfect recipe for accomplishments. Aquarius (21st January to 18th February) A lot of your time will go in introspection this month. You will think about yourself actively with regards to work, money, success, progress and family. You could also be drawn to meditation and spiritual pursuits. Those employed can expect a lengthy, challenging task to land up in their lap. Remain careful about temperamental tendencies. Students may find it difficult to concentrate on studies. Pisces (19th February to 20th March) Hard work and pleasure seeking could be the overriding activities for you this month. The planetary configurations will put you in touch with your inner feelings and thoughts. There is no escape from hard work and sweat. Last days of the month will ease pressure for professionals. You will formulate new strategies for growth and development. Be prepared for some challenging times ahead. n
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women rising Twitterati on Indian women’s cricket team
Devendra Fadnavis @Dev_Fadnavis Dear #TeamIndia,we salute your spirit, hardwork & game. You all have inspired millions of girls to take up sports as a career. Proud! #WWCFinal
Sachin Tendulkar @sachin_rt Feel for all of you, #WomenInBlue! You were good throughout but sometimes it is not meant to be. Congrats England on winning #WWC17Final!
Geeta Phogat @geeta_phogat Well played India,you made us proud #WWC17Final #WomenInBlue
Hardik Pandya @hardikpandya7 #TeamIndia, the entire nation is proud of your brave performance at the #WWC17!
Mary Kom @MangteC My SALUTE to our Indian Women’s Cricket team and supporting teams for an excellent performance #WomenInBlue #WWC17
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Riteish Deshmukh @Riteishd Men no longer the flag bearers of cricket in India, proud to see our women rightfully stand besides them. #NewHeroes #WomenRising #TeamIndia
Prakash Javadekar @PrakashJavdekar Well played #WomenInBlue. By making it to #WWC17 Final. You all have won the heart of millions & made the Nation proud. #TeamIndia #ENGvIND
Sania Mirza @MirzaSania Go get em girls @ BCCIWomen a billion wishes and prayers are with you ... #TeamIndia
Varun Dhawan @Varun_dvn At the end of the day cricket wins. Well played team india. You have inspired a nation #WomensWorldCup #WomenInBlue