CEO Vol 1 . Issue 6 . S e p t e m b e r 2014 . `100
Say CheeSe!
The CLS guide to getting that perfect smile
Camping in Style
Rough it out in India’s most glamorous camps
Looking through the White Window with
Twinkle Khanna ExpLoRER ExTRaoRdInaIRE
IRFAN RAZACK
‘The Spirit of Vanquish. The Art of
of Aston Martin’ PERFORMANCE CARS ( Division of Infinity Cars Pvt. Ltd.)
Aston Martin Mumbai
No.3, Crystal Building, Altamount Road, Mumbai-400 028.
Tel: +91 22 65811007 www.astonmartinmumbai.in
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AVAILABLE AT ALL CROCS STORES.
PE OP L E
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Style Check
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Living For The Adrenaline Rush
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Of Reel And Real Life
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Leading Lifestyle With Elan
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The Accidental Milliner
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Poetry In Porcelain
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A Sparkling History
A look at some of the best designs at Africa Fashion Week London 2014
In conversation with Irfan razack about his love for extreme sports
Kamal Gianchandani tells us about his rather accidental entry into the movie business
Dinaz madhukar chats with CEO Lifestyle about her passion for work and love for sarees
India’s only trained milliner tells us why it is time to bring hats back into everyday dressing
The illustrious history of the Spanish brand and the secret behind its supreme success
What baccarat Crystal has in store for you on its 250th Anniversary
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PANACH E
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Brand Factory
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Luxury Living Goes Green
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Power Plays On The Street
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Apps That Take You Places
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The elitist’s library of new launches
Our pick of the world’s best ecoluxury hotels
A peek into the superbike culture in pune
Travelling some place new? Check out our pick of must-have travel apps
P L AC E S
Roughin’ It Out, In Style India’s most verdant luxury camps
A-Lofty Experience Our review of the brand new Aloft bengaluru Cessna business park
A Vision In White Looking for a second honeymoon destination? Check out Zanzibar White Sand Luxury Villas & Spa
A Twinkle For Your Home A look inside Twinkle Khanna’s store, The White Window
Where Tradition Meets Contemporary planning to give your home a makeover? Head to The Home of The Traveler
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WINE & DINE
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Bringing Peshawar To Mumbai A review of Kangan at The Westin mumbai
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In Bengaluru’s Persian Heaven Why you must visit the city’s only authentic persian cuisine restaurant
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Sipping Swiss Finesse We tell you what to look forward to (except the Swiss Alps, of course) on your next trip to Switzerland
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H E ALT H
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Flash That Smile
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Put Your Best Face Forward
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Set Your Spirit Free
CEO Lifestyle talks to experts to know how you can get a perfect smile
Our guide to a perfect skin care routine while you are travelling
Looking for spiritual bliss? ITC Grand maratha’s Kaya Kalp Spa is the answer
e ve n ts
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Sites & Sounds
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Mark your calendar
Festivities at Flanders beertastic in bavaria
What we are looking forward to next month
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CEO Vol 1.Issue 6 .S e p t e m b e r 2014.`100
Say CheeSe!
The CLS guide to getting that perfect smile
Camping in Style
Rough it out in India’s most glamorous camps
Looking through the White Window with
Twinkle Khanna ExpLoRER ExTRaoRdInaIRE
IRFAN RAZACK
RAADIA MUKADAM GROuP EDITOR & BuSINESS HEAD raadia@eyeballmedia.in ASSISTANT FEATuRES EDITOR FEATuRE WRITERS
ART DIRECTOR GRAPHIC DESIGNERS
GENERAL MANAGER SALES
Neha Malude Rekha Shanmugham Nifty Jacob Veeranandhan Kittappa Narayanan Sathish M. Ashok R. Rajasekar rajasekar@eyeballmedia.in
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SALES CO-ORDINATOR
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CIRCuLATION & SuBSCRIPTION
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G.SAKTHIVEL MANAGING DIRECTOR Eyeball Media Pvt.Ltd. 30-32, Subramanian Street, Abiramapuram, Chennai 600018, India. Tel: +91 44 4567 1150. www.ceolifestylemagazine.com Printed and published by G.Sakthivel for and on behalf of Eyeball Media Pvt. Ltd. Published at 30-32, Subramanian Street, Abiramapuram, Chennai 600018, India and printed by IKON Print Solutions at Shed No.B-10, Quaide Milleth Street, SIDCO Industrial Estate, MMDA, Arumbakkam, Chennai - 600 106. All rights reserved. The different trademarks published in this issue belong to their respective owners. CEO Lifestyle cannot be responsible for unsolicited material. The contents of CLS shall not be published or reproduced in any from without the written permission of the Group Editor, Raadia Mukadam. The copyright in the contents of this magazine, including photographs printed and published, rests exclusively with Eyeball Media Pvt. Ltd.
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EDITOR’S NOTE Dear Reader,
Spacious, wood-floored, safari-style luxury tents, modern ‘eco pods’ and customized RVs glam up the camping experience today
I like the month of August, particularly because it allows me to plan my long weekend getaways that I yearn for but am often denied due to pressing demands at work. “Let’s do something different,” insisted my daughter this time, so we decided to go camping. If you are intrigued by the idea of reconnecting with nature but cringe at the thought of sleeping on the ground with nothing but a thin tent between you and the outdoors, say hello to one of the hottest new travel trends, glamping! For the uninitiated, ‘glamorous camping’ or glamping, as it is called these days, allows you to take your pick of some really luxurious camps and enjoy the best of both worlds. After all what’s better than a secluded countryside spot with all the comforts of a luxury hotel? We picked a nomadic super luxury camp that allowed us to enjoy breathtaking views of the Himalayas, raft down the Indus and have picnics in the most picturesque settings without really roughing it out. Luxury tents, modern ‘eco pods’ and customized RVs glam up the camping experience today. What we ended up in, though, was a tent. Not just any tent, but a spacious, woodfloored, safari-style enclosure that allowed us to enjoy some of the same amenities we had found on other vacations (chefcooked meals, delicious mocktails, high-thread-count sheets and views of unspoiled locales). We also found something new, a clear ecological conscience where the property’s eco-credentials were more than just lip service. But why would one opt for a tent vis-a-vis a five star hotel? Quite simply, because there is nothing more gratifying than beholding a view of the Alps or the desert or the wild forests for that matter, as soon as you wake up, without glass panes obstructing the view. Walking on Persian carpets, sleeping on cushy beds and dining like a king (or a queen in this case) whilst camping is a treat you can get used to. And like all things good in life, this too, comes at a price, but who is complaining? So it was natural that in this issue, we put together some handpicked ‘glamping’ options you must try with your loved ones. Extravagant as it may sound, it’s a vacation all of you must take. It makes for not just great photographs, but memories that will last you a lifetime.
Raadia Mukadam
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Contributors Contributors Momy Saikia momy is an Engineer, Writer, Communication Specialist, marketer and Entrepreneur. A jack of all trades but master of one — writing. She finds writing very liberating because it provides her a medium to express.
Ushamrita She’s a latent enthusiast who harbours a deep affinity for nature. Art, music, fashion, technology, travel, photography & human interactions are among the few things that attract this communications enthusiast.
Prachi Joshi prachi writes about food, travel and lifestyle for various publications. She loves exploring new places and cultures, and will travel anywhere for good food.
Aparna Kaistha Interior Decorator, Stylist, Writer and Teacher. A lifestyle junkie in general. When not involved in décor can be found partying, travelling or shamelessly pinning every free moment of the day.
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Rohan Sachdeo Speed freak, fun-loving and an out and out hedonist, rohan writes on just about anything. When not writing, he is generally found going ballistic on anything that goes fast.
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Bhisham Mansukhani Saving the world one pour of sublime ferment at a time, bhisham hopes to retire to life amongst the vines someday and until then, part time between a battered keyboard, deadline violations and a smattering of wines, beers and cognacs.
Dharma Prakash A Chennaiite at heart, Dharma loves his filter coffee and when he is not drinking coffee, he is busy capturing the beauty that is madras on his camera lens. He also loves experimenting in the kitchen but that is a talent he is lesser known for.
Suman Tarafdar Tarafdar is a journalist and writer based in Delhi. When not writing to earn a living, he likes to travel, read, cook, chat, shop and watch all kinds of soppy stuff on TV. And yes, he does actually want world peace.
Wrik Sen
Rahul Dutta Gupta
Writer, dreamer, idealist, and loads more meant to be discovered. Always up for a good conversation, some pleasantries, and exchange of ideas.
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A recovering workaholic, a beer connoisseur, a self confessed dare devil and maggi masterchef, rahul has a penchant for losing/ breaking/accidentally flushing down outrageous expensive smartphones — the only reason why he doesn’t dare treat himself to the iphone 5S. SEpTEmbEr 2014
STYLE CHECK
It was a festival of sorts at The West Hall at Olympia Kensington on the eighth and ninth of August as the enchanting vibrancy of Africa took centre stage, in a fashion show said to be Europe’s largest event for African and African inspired fashion.
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STYLE CHECK
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The Africa Fashion Week London 2014 embodied the spirit of Africa via the potpourri of designs and the various ethnic influences that contribute to it, acting as a platform for emerging talent, and evoked several moments of awe in its fourth successful year. Wooing the audience with their finesse and fresh take on African fashion were several top designers. british designer Ade bakare from Nigeria deserves a mention as does Adama paris from Senegal whose designs adorn the fashion boutiques in world fashion capitals of New York City and Tokyo and are an extension of the global citizen in her. Also grabbing the limelight were emerging designer Tsholo from botswana and the budding label of
rAAAH, brainchild of businesswoman turned fashion designer rahima mohamed. Tsholo’s deviant designs turned as many heads as rAAAH’s edgy but wearable collection which was a melange of hues, stripes and sleek silhouettes. Sylvia Owuri (Uganda), Vaishali morjaria (Kenya) and porjai Thai printer (Thailand) were some of the other names that shone on the ramp. This year also saw the introduction of AFWL market place as part of the already present AFWL exhibition, providing showcasing space for high quality select brands. The event, which paved way for the coming together of various people including international media and fashionistas, emerged as a true celebration of the sartorial excellence that resulted from the rich culture of the fascinating continent that is Africa.
TITAN TALK
Picture Courtesy: Dharma Prakash CEO LIFESTYLE
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Living For The Adrenaline Rush Equal parts witty and charming, Irfan Razack has a personality that sparkles through his words and pictures. Neha Malude speaks to the Chairman & Managing Director of Prestige Group, a man with an unending thirst for adrenaline and a zest for life.
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It was nearly 3 pm when we reached razack’s home in bengaluru, close to the very busy Trinity Circle. The house is deceptively humble on the outside but spectacular on the inside, just like razack, we realized later. Strolling in, we caught a sneak peek of the lovingly tucked porsche in a corner, already admiring the man for his superb taste. As we entered, it felt like we had stepped inside a fairytale home, parakeets all around, a lush lawn decorated with garden ornaments (which, it must be said, include goblins in different moods and poses) and at least 500 plants. As we took in the sight, mrs. razack received us graciously and insisted on a bowl of homemade mango icecream. Just then, the man himself arrived, all smiles. between spoonfuls of the cold goodness of Alphonso, razack tells us about his childhood, the time his love for the outdoors sprouted. “I was born and brought up in bangalore, went to school at St. Josephs and graduated in Commerce here itself,” he begins, adding, “back in those days, bangalore was a much different city. There were open spaces for us to roam about and play in and we played a lot. So my love for outdoors and sports started right then.” Some may not know that razack had a brief stint with a degree in Law as well but family business called and he decided to jump in headfirst – the result is there for everybody to see today. The prestige Group is one of India’s foremost property developers with projects that have a very unique stamp, be it the Ub City bangalore (built in a joint venture with Vijay mallya’s Ub Group) or the recently opened Aloft bengaluru Cessna business park in the city. It is no wonder then, that razack was named one of the 'best CEOs in Asia' by a leading global financial magazine this July. Outside office, razack is immensely fond of outdoorsy sports such as horse riding, badminton, swimming and golf, a hobby that also probably led to one of their most elite
TITAN TALK
Picture Courtesy: Dharma Prakash CEO LIFESTYLE
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one day, I’ll make time for golf again.” On rare occasions when he is away from work, razack’s day starts off on a leisurely note. “Everything slows down on a holiday for me. I usually like to head to Angsana for a relaxing spa session, catch up with friends and family or watch a movie or two,” he tells us. Quite the gastronome, razack does not let the gym dictate his eating. He is cautious about his eating habits but enjoys good food nonetheless. “We are very fond of eating out but of course, I try to strike a balance between health and food. In fact, I love experimenting with different cuisines,” he says. razack has had an ongoing interest in collecting things too. “I was very interested in collecting coins and stamps; I even won a philately competition once,” he reveals.
projects, the prestige Golfshire Club. With huge leaps in business though, comes a perpetual lack of personal time. “Over the years, I started finding it very difficult to make time for sports, but I make sure I never miss a gym session,” says razack. He walks us around the property and leads us to his office at home which adjoins a full-fledged gym. “Things change with different phases of life, I suppose. We have two houses and a farm outside the city where we have horses and there was a time when I would ride every day. Then for over a decade, I was into golf and played it six days a week but now that’s not enough. I am 60 years old now!” he says, smiling. “I need to be more careful of my health so I make sure I exercise every single day, no matter what. but maybe CEO LIFESTYLE
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TITAN TALK
“If I’ve liked a pen, I’ve added that to my collection, the same goes for watches.” In fact, razack is said to have fallen in love with a Jaeger-LeCoultre reversible wristwatch that he saw at Geneva Airport and which he decided to acquire. What razack lives for, though, is travelling the world. And not just the kind of travelling that involves sightseeing and shopping but beyond that too. “I love exploring new places and I don’t travel once or twice but four or five times a year,” he says, the enthusiasm evident in his voice. Some of his most memorable vacations include trips to East Africa, machu picchu in South America and experiencing the brazilian carnival some years back. He lives for adventure, one might even say. “We went bungee jumping in South Africa and paragliding in Switzerland. I also went sky
We went bungee jumping in South Africa and paragliding in Switzerland. I also went sky diving, scuba diving and river rafting some time back. These are extreme sports but they give you such a high
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diving, scuba diving and river rafting some time back. These are extreme sports but they give you such a high,” he says. He recounts a particularly spine-tingling moment during a glacier climbing adventure in Switzerland. “Coming down the glacier is nerve wracking and when we were descending, there were several crevices in the glacier. All we had for support were our ice picks – no ropes, no railing. To make a climb like that, you need a good foothold and probably good knees too,” he says, laughing. And if he can help it, razack loves driving around to discover new sights, especially in the UK or Europe, like the drive to black Forest in Germany in June last year. This year, bali was checked off the list and madrid is on the cards, and before we can ask he responds with a smile, “No, I won’t be participating in CEO LIFESTYLE
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the bullfighting, that’s for sure.” Is there anything he hasn’t done, we ask. “There is so much more I want to do, but time is running out and I want to experience everything before I am at that age where I have to hold a walking stick,” laughs the man. If he hadn’t been heading prestige Group, we definitely think he would have excelled as an adventurist but according to razack, he would have ended up as a hotshot lawyer. “I would have been a very successful lawyer or a judge in the Supreme Court, most probably,” he says. A way with words, a personality that commands attention and the ever-ready wit, we can definitely imagine razack in the judge’s chair. For now, though, he seems to be doing just fine as the man who adds a touch of prestige to lives and homes. SEpTEmbEr 2014
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Of
Reel and Real Life
He harboured an ambition to become a cricketer, but Kamal Gianchandani’s stars were inclined towards a different calling and that was to, well, show stars to theatre-going audiences. The President of PVR Pictures Limited chats with Neha Malude about demi-gods and Titanic.
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born and brought up a Delhi boy from school right until graduation, Gianchandani admits that choosing a career related to films was very unusual for that time. “It was 1995, a time when there were no multiplexes, only single-screen, dilapidated cinema halls which were in the process of getting shut down. My father found it really difficult to understand why someone with an mbA degree would want to go into the film business,” says Gianchandani. but how does a student with a degree in b.Com Honors from Hindu College and a masters in business Administration from pune University get into the business to begin with? “A friend’s elder brother knew Ajay bijli who is the founding member of the pVr Group and connected me to him. The group had big plans to set up multiplexes in the country. When I met him, I was enamoured by his personality and the prospect of doing something really different. besides heading pVr pictures, Gianchandani was also the founder of the digital platform, Bigflicks.com, where users can stream and download films. He might be busy spending his weekdays travelling far and wide for work but weekends for Gianchandani are solely reserved for (what else?) watching movies with his wife Alka, an Hr professional and daughter, Vrinda who is nine years old. Considering how expensive watching movies in Delhi can be, this is definitely a big perk, we say. “If I don’t watch at least two to three films in the theatre in a week, I feel like my weekends go incomplete, you know what I mean? I can skip English films once in a while, but I make sure I catch all the Hindi movies and that too in the opening week.” Not just because he loves them but because “it is important to have an opinion, considering I am in this business”. Could another perk also be getting to meet the ‘demi-gods’ that Indian movie-goers love so much? “I don’t socialize so much with the film fraternity but we do have to have business meetings. I do have friends in the industry but at the end of the day, it is business,” he says, matter-of-factly. Laughing, he adds, “besides, they are like us, human beings! Till the time you treat them like actors, they behave like actors but once you make friends, it doesn’t seem like such a big deal.” So, the inevitable question is: what are his favourite movies? “I am biased towards ‘3 Idiots’ since I was involved as a distributor with the film. I am a great fan of Raju Hirani and he is a good friend. I think the kind of performances he was able to extract from Amir Khan and the other stars is just fantastic. I have lost count of how many times I’ve seen it,” he says, adding, “and Titanic remains my all-time favourite English movie. I am not the kind of person who cries during movies but at the end of ‘Titanic’, I was howling. CEO LIFESTYLE
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TITAN TALK
If I don’t watch at least two to three films in the theatre in a week, I feel like my weekends go incomplete. I can skip English films once in a while, but I make sure I catch all the Hindi movies and that too in the opening week
CEO LIFESTYLE
I couldn’t handle the kind of pain that the characters portrayed.” Apart from movies, Gianchandani enjoys reading and spending time decorating the interiors of his home. “One advantage of travelling so often for work is that you get to pick up memorabilia from different places and add it to your home,” he says. but no matter how busy at work, he never misses going for a morning walk. “As you start getting older, you have to be more careful about your health, so yes, I am extremely health conscious.” To that extent, it is the ‘early to bed and early to rise’ mantra for Gianchandani. He tries to avoid junk food and bread assiduously. Given his constant travelling abroad, home-cooked food is really special to him. “I love a simple meal of dal and chawal, especially when my mother cooks it,” he reveals. The Delhi man loves idli, dosas and sambar too. When it comes to holidaying with his family, the US is his favourite destination, since a large part of his family is settled there. “I also attend a lot of film festivals around the world — Cannes, Berlin, etc. to pick up foreign films so we do end up visiting either of these places at least once a year. but we do make sure that we plan at least one vacation in India, our favourite being Goa and Aamby Valley,” says Gianchandani. Ask the man if he has any favourite brands and pat comes the response, “I hate shopping! I am the sort of person who is very clear about what he wants. but I love marks & Spencer and I would blindly walk into the store and pick up everything in linen. Zodiac and Zara are great for suits.” Although in a business where one might always be under the spotlight, Gianchandani is an out and out family man. “I am a very family-oriented guy despite being the business I am in. rather than parties, I prefer spending time with my loved ones,” he insists. “You might spend a lot of time with celebrities and stars but at the end of the day, family is what you want to come back to, right?”
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Leading lifestyle with élan Her love for sarees and food is unending but what Dinaz Madhukar loves more than anything else is her work and that is why, it never feels like it. Wrik Sen talks to the Senior Vice President of DLF Luxury Retail who is redefining luxury experiences in India.
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The story of Dinaz madhukar’s journey has been truly interesting. born and bought up in mumbai, she spent her formative years schooling at the The bai Awabai Framji petit Girls High School in bandra, mumbai. The time she spent in boarding school was significant in moulding her personality. perhaps her knack for the academics, nurtured at the boarding school, resulted in disciplinary studies in subjects such as commerce, followed by law, and an executive secretary programme, which she studied as a part of her bachelor’s degree. but what followed soon after her studies paved the way for a 24-year long odyssey of professional success. A chance meeting with a friend on the occasion of Gandhi Jayanti bought her to the Taj Hotel, mumbai. After they met, madhukar was selected as a part of the Taj team, which she
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was a part of for 24 years. During her stint at the Taj Group, madhukar went on to work across multiple geographies, both outside and inside India. Along the way, she also happened to become the first professional within the company to complete a successful transition from an operational department to a non-operational one. Those were some of her most gruelling years. Madhukar is of the firm belief that one must enjoy the work one is doing. She advises newcomers and professionals to do the same. “basically, you need to enjoy what you do. If your heart is not in the right place, then you will not be able to perform to your best. So for me, it is important to listen to your inner self, telling you to do what you actually need to in life. You cannot become what someone wants you to become.”
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Just as she is passionate about work, she is passionate about living life outside the boardroom too. madhukar loves visiting different restaurants, for she remains a foodie at heart. She loves to try out new cuisines and even encourages her colleagues to try out new things and look beyond the usual rigmarole of office. And though the woman tries to hit the gym as regularly as possible, she does make it a point to start the day with a fresh bowl of fruits and a heavy breakfast which keeps her day going. On the musical side, madhukar is known to be a fan of soft rock and country genres, which connects to her tastes in general. When vacationing, the hill stations are madhukar’s most preferred spots, munnar being the favorite. If not soaking in the place’s beauty, she will perhaps be seen shopping for sarees, which she is known to have a generous collection of. While madhukar visits these places, she makes sure to try out the specialties of the locale, and identifying what best suits her collection. No wonder she has a weakness for the Kanjivaram, banarasi, and Garhwali styles, while Chikankari from Lucknow and paithani from maharashtra seem to catch her fancy the most. Her emotional attachment to her belongings and brand loyalty remains consistent, as she swears by Samsung gadgets which have been her choice from the very beginning. When she looks to indulge and pick from a more elite set of brands, she prefers creations from Georgio Armani, and her Indian favorites are Namrata Joshipura and Neeru Kumar. Her stint with hospitality was an enduring and long one, but what if fate had had other plans? When posed with the question, Madhukar’s confident reply was, “I would still be in the hospitality sector because I love interacting with people. For me, the job has to involve high amounts of energy and I would love to be in a place and profession where a great deal of personal interaction is involved, which is why I enjoyed hospitality, and now I am enjoying retail.” The search for new ideas and a constant desire to keep moving forward seems to be a perpetual trait of madhukar’s persona. The madhukar persona has some humane shades as well. On probing, she reveals that cockroaches remain a bane of her existence, and also that she tends to get claustrophobic easily. In fact, she admits to needing a bit of unoccupied space in front of her, even when she gets into an elevator. This is also linked to her phobia of public modes of transport, like the Delhi metro which she avoids at all costs, considering her experience with the mumbai local trains during her stay in the city. Trying to sum up Madhukar within the confines of words would be an injustice to her overall personality. but upon interacting with her, one gets to know the value of refined tastes, dedication and more importantly, the passion she has for her work.
No wonder she has a weakness for the Kanjivaram, Banarasi, and Garhwali styles, while Chikankari from Lucknow and Paithani from Maharashtra seem to catch her fancy the most
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calonge
www.calonge-group.com - calonge@calonge.in - www.facebook.com/calonge.group CEO LIFESTYLE 41 SEpTEmbEr 2014
TAILOR MADE
The AccidenTAl Milliner An artist who has never ceased to impress and inspire, Shilpa Chavan’s playful and eccentric craftsmanship defies the laws of convention to set right the monotonous anatomy of a ‘hat’. That’s right. Patronised by the lovely Lady Gaga herself, the hatter introduces Nifty Jacob to her world.
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Against the pitch dark backdrop, an unassuming audience waited in anticipation. The pin drop silence was broken by an eerie tune that began casting a Gothic spell over the set of Lakme Fashion Week 2014. Dim rays emanated from a bevy of figures decked in LED lights as they descended down the ramp. The eyes of bigwigs in the fashion fraternity carefully trailed not the hauntingly innovative dark garments but the discerning and oversized headdresses with bird feathers and beads that stole the show. ‘Vesper bloom’ by Chavan created a nocturnal enchantment, unlike any other, where fashion became art. The story of the accidental milliner has been making waves in the fashion industry for some time now. Chavan’s unorthodox collections that merge traditional inspiration with bohemian forms have put her on the map. We are talking anything and everything that is a far cry from conformity – from flip-flops to recycled plastic. Her designs have caught the fancy of many, including leading artist, Lady Gaga who is known to have sported her headgear on many occasions. Popularly known as ‘Little Shilpa’, she is unofficially tagged as the philip Tracey of India, and understandably so. “I can proudly say that I am the first professionally trained milliner in the country,” says Chavan, who has had an apprenticeship under the exceptional aegis of Tracey himself. In fact, during a recent encounter, “Tracey was surprised as to how I managed to make a business of millinery in
India”, Chavan laughs. She confesses that the floral theme in millinery beats any other in terms of demand. Her collections sell at bombay Electric and Good Earth in India, and international outlets in paris, berlin and London, where they have all been well-received. When Chavan was first asked to asked to create headdresses for the swimwear round of miss India pageant, little did she anticipate the effect it would have on her career. Soon thereafter, she began diving ‘head first’ into her pool of ideas. As a freelance assistant, she improvised with anything that caught her fancy, from garden flowers to pinning papers, to create a head accessory. Chavan often explains her unique penchant for hats as “something that she was born to do”. “Fashion has been about sharing my story and ideas with the world,” Chavan tells us. Her larger-than-life pieces follow but one pattern, that of being unique and idiosyncratic. being a pioneer in the field offers an added advantage of pushing boundaries and conceptualising the extraordinary. Chavan finds the thought of designing novel accessories with a variety of products. From Perspex to lace, flowers or even the brocade of a sixty year old silk saree, there is nothing that misses her eye as a curator and creator. The design process first begins with visualization. “If I can visualise a good design, it will look great,” she says,
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crediting her impeccable sketching to her degree in botany. With no dearth to her imagination, she admits that it is difficult to keep from going overboard and deciding what should ‘not’ be used. She enjoys working out of her studio apartment and has no qualms about merging her personal space with work. Each of her pieces is carefully finished by hand and could take anywhere from two days to a week. Her morning booster is a cup of caffeine and a new time table prepared each day. but how fashion forward is the Indian scenario in accommodating headgear? Chavan spontaneously answers by retracing our culture to its formative period, when all the kings and kingsmen would rather drop dead than walk out without a well-tied turban, while women wore the ghoonghat, and still do. “It is a shame that we have done away with headgear,” she says. “If you want to look different, you need to be different.” In fact, if you want to stand out from the crowd, “walk into a party with a hat, and all eyes will be on you”, testifies the designer who loves to wear her funky work. Though wearing a headgear, she admits, doesn’t come easily to everyone, although a simple cap or a straw hat could be a subtle way to begin. Chavan’s sartorial sense ideally involves wearing her husband’s shirts to formal events and meetings. “You will never find me in stilettos,” she says. Her inclination towards maverick ideas often translates into crisp bow ties, a splash of colour and the classic socks with wedges. The unique nature of the product, furthered with bespoke creations that are hand-made, does not give millinery a shot at extending into retail. but in her own way, Chavan has managed to bring back the outlandish, with the demand for her work growing with each day. many of her tea parties designed with the aim to introduce new concepts and products have had her guests taking home her work. Her future plans aim at being more accessible and crafting simple pieces that can be used off the ramp as well. For Chavan, millinery was an opening into a world of self-expression. The maharashtrian diva envisions bringing a change in the general attire of her favourite mumbaikars. “I want people to be able to express their personalities as variedly as they can,” she says. And going by Chavan’s work till date, we know it will be anything but ordinary.
It is a shame that we have completely done away with headgear. If you want to stand out from the crowd, walk into a party with a hat, and all eyes will be on you, testifies the designer
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HOHMAN
Painting by Bob Freimark (1922-2010)| Sculpture by JD Hansen & Cheryl Ekstrom
HOHMANN FINE ART
73-660 El Paseo | Palm Desert, CA 92260 | U.S.A. +1.760.346.424345 | art@hohmannfineart.com | www.hohmannfineart.com | International Shipping CEO| LIFESTYLE SEpTEmbEr 2014
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Juan with his daughters, Angeles (left) and Rosa Lladr贸
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Poetry in Porcelain How did a Spanish brand become the last word in handcrafted porcelain art? Prachi Joshi brings you the Lladró story.
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As the flamenco dancer twirls, her ruffled red dress sashays behind her in one fluid motion. You can almost hear the musical beats in the background. But this is not a fleshand-blood dancer; rather she is a porcelain figurine, an ethereal, almost life-like, handcrafted piece of art which not only captures the beauty of the dancer but also the graceful movements of flamenco itself. And just as flamenco conjures up images of sunny Spain, there is only one name that comes to mind when one thinks of porcelain – the Spanish brand Lladró (pronounced ‘YAH-drow’). In 1953, three brothers Juan, José and Vicente Lladró began making porcelain creations in the moorish kiln built in their backyard in Almàssera, a tiny town in Valencia. What started as an experiment, on the sidelines of their family business of tile and crockery manufacturing, quickly morphed into a full-fledged, new venture, and the brothers moved to the neighbouring town of Tavernes blanques, where they built the ‘City of porcelain’, a place designed for artistic expression with workshops, studios and a factory. Today, the City of porcelain sprawls over 1,00,000 square feet and is a testimony to the popularity and demand for Lladró’s creations. Each piece of Lladró is painstakingly handcrafted. It is first created in clay and the model is approved by the Creativity Committee, which includes a Lladró family member. Once the design is approved, a plaster mould is made to correspond to the design. This is filled with liquid porcelain, which is allowed to harden. For complex designs, each element is made separately and then assembled with precision. Some sculptures are retained in white matte porcelain, while others are painted in soft pastels. painting is done by hand, and interestingly, only by women. Colours add the characteristic depth to the figurines and give them a lifelike appearance. The creations are fired in a kiln for nearly 20 hours to set the colours and finish the product, which is then allowed to cool for 12 hours. The finished sculpture is then coated with a layer of varnish, which gives the typical crystalline finish that the Lladró products are known and sought after for. more than 60 years later, Lladró today exists across 120 countries, including India, where the company has eight exclusive boutiques and 10 shop-in-shops at highCEO LIFESTYLE
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Picture Courtesy: Lladró end, luxury stores. Despite being a multinational enterprise, it is still very much a family business run by Juan Lladró and his daughters rosa and Ángeles. “Lladró stands for art and prestige and we are regarded globally as a symbol of creativity and excellence in porcelain art. Our philosophy is to create the best porcelain art pieces that are unmatched, ever-evolving and celebrate everything good and beautiful in life,” says rosa Lladró. Creativity and design are the hallmarks of Lladró and nowhere else do these become more apparent than in the floral elements in their sculptures. Like the rest of the sculptures, flowers are also handmade, with each petal being created and moulded separately and then masterfully shaped and assembled to create a one-of-a-kind design. much like a snowflake, each Lladró flower is unique. Whether it is an orchid in a maiden’s hair or the lotus held up by the goddess Lakshmi, the flowers add an inimitable grace and softness to the sculptures. Tradition is deep-rooted in the brand’s philosophy and many of the sculptures have an unmistakable old-world charm, with the themes of love, nature and romanticism running through the veins of most designs. Yet, current trends in art and design have had an impact on the brand, as have the influences in individual markets. In India, the brand has seen a robust growth in the past decade and their ‘Spirit of India’ collection, consisting of exquisite creations of the gods such as Lakshmi, Ganesha, bal Gopal and Sai baba, was
very well received. “India is one of the most important markets for Lladró and we are here for the long run. We continue our commitment to the Indian market through customised products, a strengthened retail presence and a consistent brand experience,” says rosa. The brand has also been constantly innovating, creating new techniques and processes, from improvements in the firing technique to an expanded colour palette, from decorating with enamel to the application of metallic lustre. The brand also collaborates with designers to create limited edition collections. The recent ‘Fantasy Collection’ by Spanish designer Jaime Hayon brought a touch of quirkiness with Harlequin figurines painted with striking designs. The new ‘parrot party Collection’ presents an interesting contrast between geometric shapes in bold colours and true-to-life parakeet figurines. Apart from porcelain sculptures, Lladró is also known for its lighting range, in the form of stunning chandeliers, hanging lights and wall & table lamps. From shimmering butterflies dangling from the ceiling to floral sconces and delicately-etched lithophane lamps, Lladró’s collection of lights is as unique and luxurious as the porcelain figures they are famed for. Lladró has garnered a universal appeal by effortlessly marrying its traditional Spanish heritage with the cultural uniqueness of the markets it has a presence in. This is perhaps the reason why you may spot a Lladró masterpiece in a museum collection, or on your mantelpiece – and it would appear equally at home in either setting.
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A Sparkling History Baccarat has been the icon of everything that is exquisite and has created truly cherished experiences along with some of the finest and most elusive crystal pieces in the world. Aparna Kaistha discovers the revelry underway as Baccarat celebrates its 250th anniversary this year.
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Founded in 1764 by the declaration of King Louis XV, baccarat has a reputation for being one of the most distinguished crystal manufacturers in the world. The French brand is synonymous with opulence, winning over monarchs, heads of state, celebrities and artists across the globe. baccarat’s impressive pieces, which have met with great praise and won a number of prizes at various paris Universal Exhibitions since 1867 to this day, illuminate the most breathtaking palaces and locations around the world. These range from the impressive collection of chandeliers for the Dolmabahçe palace in Istanbul, to the pieces commissioned by Napoleon III for his royal apartments in the Louvre and the Tuileries palace. baccarat has never ceased to amaze, turning every creation into a rare and precious piece. “passion and tenacity to create timeless objects of desire have kept baccarat successful for 250 years together with the ability of its craftsmen and designers to create bold designs that are innovative but do not compromise on the brand’s heritage,” says CEO Daniella ricardi, about their immense fame and success. “I think part of the (baccarat) magic comes from the savoir-faire. I think our patrons from all over the world know how our products are done. And if you see how they are manufactured, you will realize that almost everything is handmade, or has a significant artist’s hand in it. We have baccarat light over 20 mOF, we call them, it
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means meilleur Ouvrier de France and these are the people who have devoted their entire lives on just one specialty. That may be engraving, decorating glass, or cutting glass. And it is amazing work. To do that kind of work on one glass you need a full day’s effort and a meilleur Ouvrier de France who has at least 20 years of experience in doing that,” she concludes. To mark its 250th anniversary, baccarat has released a book published by rizzoli that showcases the brand’s history and development. The book is supported by photographs that have been commissioned especially for this collection which includes unpublished drawings from the company’s records, taking the reader on a journey through the world of baccarat. The images are accompanied by murray moss and Laurence benaïm’s text. These two individuals played key roles in defining the brand’s contemporary culture, making the book an absolute tribute to the timelessness and quality that is associated with the name. baccarat is continuing the celebration in a grand manner at the printemps store in France, which has hosted the brand within its walls since 150 years. The foyer at printemps Haussmann is prepped with a pop-up area to celebrate table arts with ‘La Table baccarat’ by bE Alain Ducasse. The center of attraction is the majestic Zenith 84-light chandelier, which has been displayed in public for the very first time. This unique chandelier reflects the opulent colour
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light fixtures of the Dolmabahçe Palace in Istanbul which boasts the largest collection of baccarat. “recognized all over the world for its exceptional expertise, baccarat has been writing the history of light for over two centuries. baccarat craftsmanship combines heritage and innovation, know-how and new technologies, transforming its legendary past into the language of today to create timeless pieces,” says riccardi. baccarat is also hosting a special exhibition, ‘baccarat Les 250 ans’ at maison baccarat’s museum-Gallery in paris, a retrospective showcase, where you can find almost 250 masterpieces that have become legendary in over 250 years of the history of the brand. The themes include the story of the famous ‘Harcourt’ stem glass, born in 1841 when King Louis philippe ordered a ceremonial chalice engraved with his monogram. ‘Le rouge à l’Or’ focuses on the vivid golden red colour that has become baccarat’s trademark, a fusion of clear crystal and 24-carat gold. The ‘myriad Colours’ section of the show focuses on a series of coloured pieces first released in 1839 and expanded over the years to create kaleidoscopic bursts of crystal. The technique marked a turning point in the history of the brand’s designs. The final division of the exhibit concentrates on the craftsmanship and expertise the brand has accumulated since its beginning and explores techniques such as cutting, glassblowing, engraving and gilding. Also, as part of the anniversary celebrations, Nendo, the eminent Japanese design brand has teamed up with the crystal house to generate a limited edition chess set that fairly represents three centuries of exquisite artistry of the French crystal manufacturer. based on a timeless baccarat icon – the celebrated Harcourt glass design – the elegant set comprises 32 hand-cut pieces made in clear and midnight blue crystal, shaped in forms of the king’s crown, the hem of the queen’s robes and the bishop’s mitre. As with the Harcourt glass, created in 1841, and now famed for its magnificent silhouette, baccarat’s designs are the vector of a history whose strength lies in its capability to convey the magic of light reflected into infinity. It is this brilliance that magnifies the Maisons Baccarat in Paris and Moscow, as well as the first Baccarat Hotel & Residences, which will open in New York in 2014. “I love the timeless modernity of baccarat, a unique combination of savoir-faire, perfection and passion that produces exquisite objects of desire, glamorous and elegant. These pieces are perfect gifts to ourselves and to the people we love and with whom we share unforgettable moments of delight,” concludes riccardi. We absolutely agree, do you?
Picture Courtesy: Baccarat
Baccarat craftsmanship combines heritage and innovation, know-how and new technologies, transforming its legendary past into the language of today to create timeless pieces
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BranD FaCtOrY
Time To go vogue The Swiss watch brand Carl F. bucherer has created a timepiece that skillfully combines elegance and symbolic power. Alacria royalrose is made of 18 carat white gold replete with 137 sapphires and diamonds each, making it a fitting piece for the lovely ladies. price on request.
Trending iT Aakarshan, the new assortment launched on Velvetcase. com, is meticulously crafted with elegant designs that enhance the luxe factor. A collection infused with natural diamonds and pearls, sorted in shades of white, pink, golden and brown, these will make for every girl’s best friend. prices from rs. 20,000 onwards.
SmarT ShadeS Characterised by elegant styles, Salvatore Ferragamo launches its latest collection of shades for femme and homme. reinterpreted with the iconic Gancino and Vara designs, the line has hints of leather, elegant temples and so much more. price on request.
Timekeeper Get this Seiko Astron GpS Solar Chronograph, a watch with the classic Astron black dial that can receive GpS signals and identify time zone, time and date data using the global network of GpS satellites with just the power of light. price: rs. 2,22,200 CEO LIFESTYLE
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Élan on The go Inspired by the bustling city of Amsterdam, TUmI harmonises the old world charm with contrasting colour palettes in the premium CFX collection. made from soft carbon fibre, this classy travel gear is sleek, light weight and the perfect accessory for your travel schedule. price on request.
Colour pop The house of Holii brings a new range of swanky accessories meant to woo you. With its characteristic Indian accents highlighted with splash of colours, these are trendy, sleek and perfect for any occasion. We love the tote bag priced at Rs. 4,695.
STyle your STride From the house of Corneliani comes a whole new collection. From suede loafers to leather shoes, the range complements your wardrobe, be it a smart tux or the boot-cut denims. Truly a gentleman’s delight. price on request.
a pen for your ThoughTS montegrappa announces one of the most ambitious pens in its illustrious history, The brain pen. Adorning the top of the cap is a cross-section of the brain, based on an ancient illustration. The cap features an overlay made up of neurons, with the pocket clip representing the spinal cord. price from rs. 4,45,000 onwards. CEO LIFESTYLE
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Jewel love Alpana Gujral reveals a new collection of fine jewellery with exceptional craftsmanship. A contemporary accent of the classic mughal style, these pieces translate into elegance and grace. A must-buy to up your glam factor. price on request.
for your eyeS only Diesel brings the latest in eyewear. The digitally printed temples, retro looks and colour over-laps are sure to catch your fancy. Denimize shades make a comeback with the first fully denim optical. We think it’s time you got yours. price on request.
Jazz up Tea Time Of course, nothing beats the comfort of garam chai. The range of tea sets by ravissant are hand crafted in sterling silver with different stones from rose quartz and jade to rock crystal, perfect to up your tea quotient in style. prices start at rs. 56,000. CEO LIFESTYLE
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ClaSSiC in whiTe Add an interesting twist to your monsoon gear with ‘The White Collection’ by Tommy Hilfiger. Never mind the rains playing truant, these fauxceramic pieces are dust and water resistant and offer maximum durability. Cheers to rainy days. Prices up to Rs. 9,600. SEpTEmbEr 2014
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Luxury Living Goes
Green
Who says environmentalism and luxury cannot co-exist? Rekha Shanmugham brings to you some of the world’s most lavish hotels that allow for a seamless merge with nature.
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Picture Courtesy: Hoshinoya Karuizawa CEO LIFESTYLE
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Picture Courtesy: Lefay Resort & SPa Lago Di Garda
Lefay Resort & SPA Lago Di Garda, Italy
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Nestled in the quaint village of Gargnano on the ethereal Lake Garda, Lefay Resort & SPA Lago di Garda is said to be the largest in Italy. Surrounded by an 11-hectare natural park and gently kissed by the rising hills and natural terraces rich in olive trees and woods overlooking the lake, the resort provides you an otherworldly experience as you slip inside the skin of the common Italian. The Green Globe certified resort, luxurious as it may be, gives utmost importance to environmental wellness. That sustainability is paramount is evident through the slew of initiatives taken in order to not cause damage to the ecosystem, right from the design and architecture. Care has been taken to ensure morphological integration, for the resort is made up of separate entities that are artistically integrated with the hill slope. While the architecture is inspired from the indigenous annexed lemon houses, characteristic of the Upper Garda area, the materials are sourced locally and reflect the culture and topography of the village. A bevy of energy-saving measures like the biomass plant that covers as much as 70 percent of the thermal energy demands of the resort, photovoltaic panels, an absorption cooling system and a methane-powered boiler amongst other initiatives strongly reiterate the genuine commitment to march towards sustainability. Equally occupying prominence are water conservation and waste management measures. From an effective laundry management policy to responsible toilet flushing systems that save almost 50 percent in comparison (a gargantuan amount when considered in totality) and the indispensable rainwater collection of course, the resort has effected well thought out policies. The extremely crucial differentiated waste collection and usage of recycled materials find a place here too. Note that the three main objectives of architectural integration, usage of renewable resources and employment of latest methods have led to the resort cutting down the carbon emission by a whopping 1,130 tons per year. Lefay has found a way to compensate for its remaining carbon dioxide emissions quota as well, starting from this year, by way of the commendable Lefay Total Green project. Well, all we can say is way to go Lefay. For more information, visit www.lefayresorts.com/
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Soneva Kiri, Thailand
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Combining with the unparalleled loveliness of the Koh Kood island in Thailand, Soneva Kiri is beauty ‘au naturel’ exemplified. Twenty four large resort villas and 11 private residences hugging the picturesque beaches or the slopes of the rainforest make up the place which claims to be ‘barefoot Intelligent Luxury at its best’. If the open air Cinema paradiso provides you with a movie experience like none other, the Treetop Dining pod and the benz mangrove restaurant amongst several other unique features will make sure that the visit to this eco-friendly resort is not a one-time affair. From energy, water, waste and chemical management to maintenance of air quality and responsible purchasing, design and construction, the resort gives the environmentconscious reasons galore to enjoy a guilt-free sojourn. While the Eco Villa serves as a prototype of the several novel techniques used, by utilizing a Solar pV plant for energy production, the medium voltage underground cables ensure reduction in power loss and radiation, all the while upping the aesthetic quotient of the resort. A waste water treatment plant, low flush systems, self sufficient water supply and production of Soneva Drinking Water with re-useable glass water bottles are some of the other initiatives taken. Soneva Kiri sticks to biodegradable cleaning chemicals as much as possible while ensuring that unbleached and naturally dyed cotton is used throughout. Various entities from paper, metal and glass to kitchen waste and batteries are recycled. It is also interesting to note that natural rubbish bags such as potato sacks are used in order to reduce plastic waste. And as much as possible, the place looks to utilize natural ventilation instead of air conditioning. Well, we have hardly managed to cover a quarter of the initiatives, for the list is quite exhaustive. For more information, visit http://www.soneva.com /soneva-kiri
Picture Courtesy: Soneva Kiri
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Picture Courtesy: alila Villas Uluwatu
Alila Villas Uluwatu, Indonesia
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perched on a spectacular limestone promontory one hundred metres above sea level, the eco luxury resort of Alila Villas Uluwatu is a transcendental experience that adorns the southern coastline of bali. Dominated by traditional balinese accents like planes of wood, water, stone and rattan, the 86 villas with their private pool and cabana enjoy bewitching views of the azure spectacle by name of the Indian Ocean. While local bamboo has been used for the ceilings, lava rocks cover the flat roofs of each villa and limestone from the site has been hand-cut for the garden walls. Given the unique, nature-inspired design, there is ample air circulation so the usage of lights and air conditioners has been kept to a minimum. The volcanic rock, apart from serving as a natural insulator, replicates the natural environment fostering the growth of vegetation. Aesthetics and environmental-friendliness apart, the locally sourced materials aid the indigenous communities as well. Immense care has been taken to ensure that the design and architecture become one with the local bali savannahlike environment, taking into account the seasonal changes and do not compromise on natural wildlife habitats. The Environmentally Sustainable Design done to achieve Green Globe certification saw terraced planes protecting cool gardens merge with the rocky terrace fields and verdant gullies. An on-site nursery, with plants unique to the local Savannah ecosystem has been established to further the local flora and fauna. It is interesting to note how the landscape architects of Cicada overcame the challenge of not being able to cultivate anything on the thin, porous soil only 300mm deep. The place is now festooned with gorgeous, purple, star-shaped flowers achieved by transforming common milkweed found on the land into living fences. Native plants found in the surrounding areas augur well for water wastage too, as they do well without irrigation. Soaks and rain gardens, heat pumps for water heating, salt water pools, and a recyclable grey water system which leads used water to be utilized throughout the property by directing it through reverse osmosis tanks earns this resort a thumbs up from us. For more information, visit http://www.alilahotels.com/ uluwatu/
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Whitepod, Switzerland
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Situated in the heart of the ethereal Swiss Alps, the one of a kind Whitepod Hotel deserves a visit as much for the immaculate stretch of white as for its innovative concept of the low impact accommodation. Located at an altitude of 1400 metres, The Whitepod camp holds 15 geodesic-dome shaped pods, pitched on wooden platforms. Naturally insulated from the cold and snow, the pods come with organic luxury bedding, fully-fitted bathrooms, woodburning stoves and of course, magnificent views of the Alpine surroundings, thanks to the large bay windows and private decks. becoming one with the pristine surrounding, the ‘white during winter, green during summer’ pods provide you with a fanciful yet highly responsible way to enjoy your holiday. being pitched on wooden platforms, dismantling the pods is no hassle and the natural state can be restored in entirety. Also, local material is used for the construction of the pods which also house local items such as army blankets and alpine furniture. As much as possible, food too, is sourced locally. While waste management is done adhering to strict local guidelines, water from the mountains is directly utilized in the bathrooms and guest areas. It is also interesting to note that the provided oil lamps are highly recommended for use, although there is electricity in each pod. Wooden stoves inside the pods ensure that the guests are warm while an extra electric heater placed inside the bathroom comes in handy in case of extreme cold. Of course, a holiday at the Swiss Alps automatically spells skiing and The Whitepod Ski Estate comes with 7 km of ski slopes with private ski lifts as well. Guests also have more than 25 km of sign-posted hiking trail to satisfy their thirst for activity. A perfect amalgamation of luxury, ecotourism and adventure, indeed. For more information, visit http://www.whitepod.com/ wpod/summer/
Picture Courtesy: Whitepod
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Picture Courtesy: ITC Gardenia
ITC Gardenia, India
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‘Forward to Green, back to Nature’ reads the ITC motto and ITC Gardenia which serves as an embodiment of the true spirit of the Garden City of bangalore leaves no stone unturned to ensure that the stately hotel gives back to nature in what it calls ‘responsible Luxury’. With 292 luxury rooms and suites that offer some of the best hospitality in the industry, the hotel is the recipient of a multitude of awards including the best Eco friendly hotel by ministry of Tourism, Government of India in 2012. Forwarding to the green initiatives, the hotel is said to be one of its kind, having achieved the global environmental distinction of being carbon positive, water positive and solid recycling waste positive. The hotel has also managed to utilize 100 percent renewable wind energy for its entire operation. While energy efficient lighting minimizes the usage of power, the design ensures that daylight gets utilized to the maximum. Also remember that the wood you see in the hotel is not from forests but from ones specially grown for this purpose, while engineered wood using dust wood accounts for a good 74 percent of the wood including the flooring. We can already hear the nature enthusiast heave a sigh of relief. And there is more, as you enter the main lobby you can’t help but notice the Vertical Hanging gardens that rise up to the ceiling. A soothing sight, they are illuminated by natural light during the day and cooled by the wind, thus making complete use of the Garden City’s wellbehaved climate. The hotel also adopts the practise of Green banqueting, thereby promoting fair trade practises and cooking locally grown, in-season foods. While water recycling has been taken care of, a highly effective solid waste management plan ensures almost nil solid waste. For more information, visit http://www.itchotels.in/hotels/ itcgardenia.aspx
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Hoshinoya Karuizawa, Japan
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Sitting pretty at the foot of the active volcano mt. Asama, Hoshinoya Karuizawa is a fine way to experience the impeccable hospitality of Japan, intact with wilderness. Amidst lush mountains and forests, the resort situated in the Karuizawa highland 150 km northwest of Tokyo gives you a taste of the rural Japanese life, along the picturesque Yukawa River. The soft gurgling river, terraced paddy fields, dense darkness penetrated by lit lanterns floating on the river, complete with the surreal backdrop — this holiday is one that will linger in your memory forever. With earthy tones that complement the lush surroundings, the villas offer spectacular views including that of the river and the Wild bird Sanctuary. The resort which creates an ambience of being one with nature does its part to ensure sustainability as well. The Yukawa river takes care of 75 percent of the resort’s energy needs with the help of their very own mini hydro power plant. Floors under the rooms are heated by geo thermal energy, ensuring natural and soothing warmth for the guests. Also, complete recycling as been made mandatory at the resort. It is interesting to note that the surrounding wilderness happens to be the habitat for a variety of species which includes animals like the native brown bears, which aren’t sighted often. The resort actively does its part to provide for their protection through picchio Wildlife research Center. These efforts also happen to have fetched the resort an award for Global Warming prevention by the Japanese minister of Environment in 2007. While at the resort, make sure you head out to experience their outdoor activities and eco-tours offered through picchio. The wide repertoire includes something to satisfy everyone. From star gazing to bird watching and nature walks to cross country skiing and serious hikes on mt. Asama, the resort gives you one too many options to embrace the longing nature-lover in you. For more information, visit http://global.hoshinoresort.com/ hoshinoya_karuizawa/
Picture Courtesy: Hoshinoya Karuizawa
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Picture Courtesy: Six Senses Con Dao
Six Senses Con Dao, Vietnam
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Set in a premier, protected national and marine park and comprising of 50 state-of-the-art private pool villas, the Six Senses Con Dao is probably one amongst the closest that one can get in the marriage of luxury and ecofriendliness. recognized by none other than National Geographic Traveller as a top eco lodge, this is said to be the only five star luxury resort nestled in Vietnam’s untouched 16-island archipelago of Con Dao. No gargantuan concrete structure obstructs the serenity of the place. Care has been taken to ensure that most of the building materials are timber, either reclaimed or harvested from sustainable sources, and the windy topography, completely taken advantage of, ensures that it is cool year-round. While water recovery and sewage treatments allow for reuse of the treated water for irrigation, the ‘zero waste’ initiative that Six Senses has on its agenda for the year should prove to be a huge step towards effective waste management. In accordance with this, the resort recently introduced the eco-friendly application of pressreader, thereby providing complimentary access to over 2000 local and international titles on the guests’ electronic devices. Wherever possible, the resort makes use of produce that is locally sourced and most importantly, enlightens its hosts on the finer aspects of sustainability, thereby inculcating a sense of green-responsibility in them. brimming with eco-activities, the resort is indeed a paradise for the quintessential nature-lover. What with Con Dao being the only place in Vietnam where sea turtles nest with complete National park protection, turtle discovery is something that one could explore. Hiking in the tropical rain forest for a spectacular 260-metre climb above sea level, while encountering rare species on the way, is another option. Six Senses Con Dao also endeavours to protect the bay area in front of the resort, home to large concentrations of Sea Grass beds, main source of food for the endangered species of dugongs. The jewel on the crown, however, is the ECObIObALL, the biodegradable golf ball that completely dissolves into fish food, thereby providing a uniquely responsible golfing experience for the guests. For more information, visit http://www.sixsenses.com/ resorts/con-dao/destination
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POWERPLAYS ON THE STREET Superbikes have taken off in a big way in India with many hallowed marques offering their go-faster machines to speed-craving motorcyclists in the country. With such like-minded people coming together, superbike clubs have mushroomed across India. Rohan Sachdeo takes a look at what makes them tick.
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Until a few years ago, there were not many big bikes officially available in the market. The only option that one had to satisfy their need for speed was to buy a superbike from the grey market and deal with people of a rather, shall we say, questionable character. Things have, however, changed, and many internationally renowned big bike manufacturers have set up shop in India and are offering their products to the discerning masses, provided of course, that you have the moolah. So what do you do if you have the money in the bank and an itch for the biker boyz lifestyle? Well, you go to the nearest motorcycle showroom and plonk your money down and buy a superbike, of course. but who are these people? What do they do? What is it that drives them (pun intended) to spend their hard-earned money on such expensive bikes and pursue superbiking with such passion? Meet 38-year-old Pranav Nadkarni from Pune. When not busy working or spending time with family and friends, Nadkarni, who is a member of the pune based Club Of pune Superbikers (or COpS as they are known), spends most of his Sundays catching up with fellow club members at various locations in and around pune. While he has been riding ever CEO LIFESTYLE
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since he was 16, he only started riding superbikes from 2005 onwards. riding a superbike was a passion that engulfed him so much that he ended up buying two more bikes just to satisfy his need for speed. From the Honda CBR 600 F3 that got him started, pranav moved on to buy a Cbr 600 rr and eventually moved into the big boys club when he finally graduated to a litre class machine when he bought the Suzuki SV 1000 S. Yet another superbiker, 35-year-old Abhijeet Ganu, who is an optician by profession, bought his first bike, a Kawasaki ZX-6 r when he started riding at 18. The fervor for biking runs in the family. Showing off his newly acquired Triumph Tiger 1200 Explorer, he grins and says, “You might want to see the world, but see India on a bike first since that is an experience you will truly cherish.” We ask prakkash pawar, the driving force behind COpS to tell us a little more about the club. “The Club of pune Superbikers is a group of enthusiastic bikers with a common passion to ride. The objective of forming this club way back in 2008 was to promote superbiking as a disciplined sport. A couple of years ago, a handful of superbike owners got together and today we have a strength of 38 bikers with SEpTEmbEr 2014
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over 50 bikes. The range of bikes in our club varies from superbikes, street bikes to cruisers of all makes,” says pawar. He has been riding since 1992 and personally owns a fleet of around a dozen bikes. His latest acquisition, a Triumph rocket has him grinning from ear to ear. The bikers get together every Sunday and apart from rides around the city, make long rides too. recently they rode all the way to Goa and a biking trip to bhutan is on the cards in the next few months. Those interested in joining COPS just have to fill out a registration form on the website, assuming, of course, they have a machine of minimum 650 cc engine. Vikram bapat, 40, agrees and confesses that he is also looking at acquiring a Triumph Tiger sometime in the near future. In his day job, he spends his days chasing business and making sure profits are up but come weekend, he swaps his business suit for his biking leathers and takes off to the roads on his Kawasaki Ninja 650. but is passion for speed necessary? Yes, says 30-year-old Gaurav Tingre. His world changed when he bought his first superbike, a Yamaha YZF r1. He got so involved in it that he ended up buying another bike, the Kawasaki ZX 14r which also happens to be the fastest production bike in the world. CEO LIFESTYLE
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The question that remains, though, is: how does one get swept into the club culture? Amardeep Singh while showing us his Kawasaki Z 1000 says that it was not just love for speed but meeting similar people that got him involved. As a premium used car and superbike dealer, Singh was no stranger to exotic and fast machines. but it was only when he joined COpS in November 2011 after buying a Suzuki Intruder that he got exposed to the whole motorcycle club lifestyle. We wondered if age is a factor since everyone seems to be in the 30-plus age group here. ‘No’, comes the resounding reply and everyone lets manish Kataria take centre stage. Kataria, who is all of 25, says he started riding at the tender age of 17 and once on a bike, was hooked for life. He started riding with COpS the very next day after he acquired a Yamaha R1, his first superbike. His passion for riding made him buy a Suzuki Hayabusa, followed by a bmW S 1000rr that he currently rides. As more and more people with high disposable incomes start gaining access to word class bikes in India, the motorcycling scenario in the country is bound to change. Here’s looking forward to better (and of course, speedier) things in the near future. SEpTEmbEr 2014
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Apps That Take You Places Getting into a fix every time you decide to take a trip? The where, when and how of travel can be quite a headache. Rahul Dutta Gupta names the best vacation planning apps for apple and android devices (smartphones and tablets) which every conscientious traveller needs.
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If only planning a holiday was as simple as dumping your vacation wear in a duffel bag, picking up your buddies and hopping into the next Volvo going to Shimla. However, since we are no longer in college and have to shoulder actual responsibilities, we need to make sure that every little nugget of freedom is maximized to its fullest. Thankfully, to help us in our quest to plan an epic vacation, we have at our fingertips, countless apps which have been coded to help us have the time of our lives and save a small fortune with some careful planning. Install one or all of these apps and you will never be at a loss while hopping time zones. Tripit With TripIt, keeping a track of hotels, flights and car rental reservations becomes a piece of cake. To use this mobile travel organizer, all you need to do is forward your confirmation details to plans@tripit.com and the app would turn them into an easy-to-manage travel itinerary, which can be accessed on their site, shared with family and friends and be downloaded for offline viewing. price: Free (basic), 49 US dollars for annual subscription of TripIt pro available on: iphone/ipad, Android devices, blackberry and Windows phone Size: 18 mb CEO LIFESTYLE
packing pro men are hopeless at packing (usually) and women always pack way more than they need (or their neighbours need). Luckily for you, this nifty packing app takes off the stress by allowing users to create packing lists and check items off as they are packed. If you aren’t sure what needs to be packed in the first place, you can go through their extensive packing templates for every imaginable type of travel. All you have to do is follow these templates and equip yourself in a similar fashion. price: 190 US dollars available on: iphone/ipad Size: 12.8 mb Touristeye TouristEye is one those quirky apps which have been designed to goad your Karma (like The Secret) by enabling you to create a bucket list of places you would like to see before you die. We loved this travel app because one thing that gets in the way of those memorable trips is the lack of time coupled with the lack of will power. ‘Too busy in office’, ‘things aren’t right at home’, ‘we can always go next year’ …. on and on goes the list and guess what? The new year arrived and left and you are still stuck at square one. With TouristEye your bucket list sits right alongside your
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work apps, reminding you that life is meant to be enjoyed and ‘time’s a wastin’. Of course, it also packs in a plethora of useful tools like maps, to-do lists, tips and suggestions from seasoned travellers but it was the ‘Go on, enjoy yourself!’ concept that made us fall in love with this app. price: Free available on: iphone/ipad, Android devices Size: 5 mb mobilenavigator A very popular app, MobileNavigator justifies its 20 US dollar price tag every time you turn it on. If you are travelling through India, especially its bustling cities, you know how maddening it can be to navigate through its narrow alleys, train crossings and crowded markets. With mobileNavigator you would get a complete voice-guided, turn-by-turn navigation which would allow you to sneak through the complex labyrinth of lanes with consummate ease. Currently available only with the iphone, it packs in thousands of interest points like restaurants, markets, metro and train stations and of course, the nearest pubs. price: 20 US dollars available on: iphone/ipad, Android devices Size: 5.2 mb CEO LIFESTYLE
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worldmate We saved the best for the last. WorldMate is aimed firmly at business travellers who work hard and travel often. Worldmate’s robust dashboard gives you a variety of organization and planning tools, enabling you to get all your reservations and itineraries in one place. You can also add other destinations, different meetings you need to attend in different time zones (can be quite confusing), currency conversions, maps, etc. What sets Worldmate apart are its business-friendly service integrations. It features LinkedIn, which allows you to catch up with your colleagues and business partners on the go, share notes and transfer documents without having to open several new windows. If you plan to use its paid version, you would find a bevy of useful features like flight status alerts, real time currency conversions, weather updates and forecasts for all geographical locations in your travel itinerary, world clocks and much more. best of all, Worldmate works on both iOS and Android devices so you can share, transfer and check your plans irrespective of the device you are using. price: Free available on: iphone/ipad, Android devices Size: 32 MB SEpTEmbEr 2014
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Roughin’It Out, In Style The word ‘camping’ usually conjures up images of canvas tents, sleeping bags, camp fires and well, lack of a decent toilet. Enter the concept of ‘Glamping’. With luxurious, carpeted tents having every imaginable comfort, pristine white bathtubs and champagne, camping has become glamorous all the way, says Neha Malude.
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Picture Courtesy: Taj Banjaar Tola, Madhya Pradesh CEO LIFESTYLE
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Banjaar Tola by Taj Madhya Pradesh
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part of the fun of camping comes from knowing that you are surrounded by wildlife, does it not? And so, banjaar Tola, a Taj property that is located inside madhya pradesh’s Kanha National Park definitely deserves a mention. Situated on the edge of the banjaar river and overlooking the park, banjaar Tola is the perfect combination of glamour and camping. As with all Taj properties, attention to detail is apparent here too. The tents, made with pressed bamboo wall panels and bamboo floors are designed to reflect a contemporary style. The use of raw timber, canvas wardrobes, leather detailing and handcrafted furniture made from fallen trees and driftwood lends the suites an earthy yet lavish feel. The rich heritage of m.p. is mirrored in the decor in hues of forest green and saffron with block prints. Wide glass doors open onto private decks overlooking the river, offering panoramic views of the wilderness beyond. To start your day, tuck into traditional Indian fare at lunch and a post a short siesta on your private deck, take an afternoon safari drive. Halt at sunset point where you will be handed a refreshing cocktail as you watch the sun dip. As twilight approaches, get back to the campsite and let the expert masseuse work on your tired muscles. Dinner is an entertaining affair with tribal dancers showing off their best moves, inviting you to join them! What with the music, merry-making and an adventurous day, it won’t be long before you feel your eyes drooping and find yourself being lulled into sleep to the sounds of the jungle. Cost: Rs. 43,600 For more information, visit http://www.tajsafaris.com/our_ lodges/banjaar_tola/default.php
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Picture Courtesy: The Bison Kabini Resort, Karnataka CEO LIFESTYLE
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The Bison Kabini Wildlife Resort, Karnataka
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Situated at the confluence of the Bandipur and Nagarhole National park, on the shores of the Kabini river in Karnataka, The bison Kabini resort is the only resort in Kabini which overlooks the forest. Although it has attempted to stay close to nature, in no way does that mean that the resort has compromised on luxury. The tents, or machans as they are called, are a combination of wooden floors, artifacts, old cabin trunks and antiques to give it a rustic yet elegant feel. All the tents boast of a waterfront view, which means that you might be lucky enough to see a herd of elephants or a big cat (if you are really lucky) pass by as you sip tea from the comfort of your tent. Guests are invited to experience two types of activities – Common (fishing, coracle rides, treks, etc.) and Star (dining in the forest, backwater breakfast, sun downers, night boat rides, etc.) The safari will be in the Kakkankote range which includes the backwaters of the Kabini, superb grasslands, lush bamboo, rose wood, sandal wood and teak forests with strategically placed water holes and salt licks. So, take your pick – enjoy a drink at sunset while gazing at majestic elephants, dine in the jungle under the stars, enjoy dinner cooked on firewood – or do it all. And if you want something truly unique, you can have a customized experience too. There is a tailor made itinerary for a romantic getaway, for those especially interested in wildlife and photography or for special occasions, like a birthday. Cost: rs.10,500 (approx) for double occupancy. For more information, visit http://thebisonresort.com/
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JAWAI Leopard Camp, Rajasthan
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Amidst the high hills and arid lands of rajasthan lies the JAWAI Leopard Camp, an offering from SUJÁN Luxury. It is a one-of-its-kind leopard camp not just in India but the entire world – that’s right. With just the kind of topography that the big cats like to call their home, this is an experience you will never forget. The tents are an unabashed display of everything that is magnificent – the canvas tents are decorated with stainless steel and leather accents that lend them a touch of understated luxuriousness. Every tent has an attached deck that boasts of uninterrupted views of the wilderness in all its glory. Time at JAWAI can be spent hiking, bird-watching or cycling. but undoubtedly, the most interesting of these activities are the safari and what is known as The Shepherd’s Stroll, a chance to take a walk with a rabari herdsman to truly appreciate the beauty of rural rajasthan. You can also visit the nearby UNESCO World Heritage Site, the 15th century Fort of Kumbhalgarh and explore the intricately carved temples of ranakpur. return to the campsite in the evening, take a quick dip in the open-air swimming pool or go for a spa session before night falls. Dine on a gourmet meal made from organically-grown produce and then sit around a campfire and watch the fire crackle as the stars shine down – sounds magical? It probably is. Cost: Rs. 91,000 (Tented Suite) For more details, visit http://www.sujanluxury.com/ jawaileopard-camp/index.html
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Picture Courtesy: JaWaI Leopard Camp, Rajasthan CEO LIFESTYLE
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Picture Courtesy: aman-i-Khaas, Rajasthan CEO LIFESTYLE
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Aman-i-Khaas, Rajasthan
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Aman (peace) and Khaas (special), need we say more? This gorgeous wilderness camp is located in the north of Jaipur on the outskirts of ranthambore National park in rajasthan. Aman-i-Khaas, with its abundant greenery and rolling plains, is quite literally an oasis in the midst of a desert. Ten luxury tents, each set on a raised concrete plinth, reflect the magnificence of the Mughal travelling tents of the days gone by, when rooms were separated by not doors, but cotton drapes. The bedroom area is fitted with a king-size bed flanked by twin writing desks and the bathing area includes a shower, soaking tub and separate toilet. One of the best features of the camp is the outdoor fireplace, where you can spend time gazing at stars after dinner. Or on a particularly hot day, you could immerse yourself in the bawadi or step well, a series of squared, concentric steps that converge deeper into the pool. Set out on a morning excursion trip to sight wildlife that ranthambore National park is famous for and you can return to a lavish breakfast served within the privacy of your Dining Tent. Food is a high point here, thanks to the produce from the camp’s very own organic garden. If you like, you can experience a relaxing spa session or even a reiki or Yoga session. Evenings are a jolly affair as guests join other camp visitors around the communal fireplace. With all this and more, Aman-i-Khaas indeed makes for a special, peaceful experience. Cost: rs. 66,110 For more information, visit http://www.amanresorts.com/ amanikhas/home.aspx
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Lifestyle Holidays
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Chamba Camp, Ladakh
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An initiative of The Ultimate Travelling Camp (TUTC), the Chamba Camp in Thiksey, Ladakh, is a revelation. As if the stark beauty of Ladakh wasn’t enough to mesmerize travellers, this super-luxurious camp will wow the discerning traveller even more. The 15-day camp is set up close to Thiksey Monastery, which also acts as the host. The first day is just for acclimatization so you can sit around and soak in the beauty of the surrounding alfa-alfa pastures all day. The next few days are spent exploring the old city coupled with several activities like bird-watching, cycling trip, rafting, polo and even a séance with the Oracle. The days are punctuated with picnics along the banks of the Indus river where a personal, liveried butler will cater to your every wish. As night falls, retreat into your grand tent designed in soft brown hues and colonial furniture with en-suite bathrooms, private decks and crisp linen. Don’t believe us? Then we will just let the pictures do the talking. Cost: Rs. 2,45,355 (Luxury Tent) For more details, visit http://www.chambacampthiksey.com/
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The new aloft in Bengaluru challenges the notion that an inexpensive hotel stay is usually not memorable for the right reasons. Unique experiences in design, music, food, entertainment, connectivity, aesthetics, and even room stay make Suman Tarafdar change his mind.
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Picture Courtesy: Aloft Bengaluru Cessna Business Park
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It is not often that an overhanging plane greets you when you enter a hotel. Nor would you have come across too many hotels where the check-in desk is in the centre of the entrance lobby and has a moving pop art audio visual that changes every three months. You let your eyes wander and they immediately come to stop at the pool table nearby. mentally booking time at it, you take in a welcoming deli, a bar counter with high backed chairs, a music stage with a moving ticker and video wall above, sofas and chairs in colours, shapes and sizes you would not easily encounter – all exuding a bright, snazzy look. Add plugged-in techies poring over screens and you may be forgiven for thinking you are at the waiting lobby of a movie theatre. Welcome to the world of Aloft and in this case, the Aloft bengaluru Cessna business park owned by the prestige Group, a leading real estate developer. The second Aloft hotel in the city after the one in Whitefield, this is as bright and youth-connected a hotel as exists anywhere. Aloft, one of global hospitality major Starwood’s newest and fastest growing brands, draws its design inspiration from another group brand known globally for its high quality design sensibilities, W. Aloft hotels globally are ‘select service’ brands, often implying a compromise on luxury. Not this one though. This 191-room hotel, with its emphasis on design combined with CEO LIFESTYLE
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tech-savvy features and vibrant social atmosphere, is setting new standards for the category. Stylish but inexpensive is how the brand is positioned and this is attracting a rapidly growing group of loyal travellers around the world. The hotel’s look is different by design. The vast lobby is a sort of all-in-one experience. The brand has strategically used the lobby to retail the guests’ experience. The lobby is undoubtedly the nerve centre of the hotel, and is sized accordingly. public spaces at Aloft bengaluru Cessna business park are aplenty. Guests can mix and mingle, read, work or play a game of pool at the re:mix lounge or grab a drink and enjoy ‘Live @ Aloft Hotels’ that showcases live band performances by emerging artists at the signature W XYZ bar. While the liquor licence should be in place soon, there are already a number of exciting mocktails on offer. recreational facilities at the hotel include re:charge fitness centre and the ‘Splash’ pool on the second floor. Check out the fitness equipment at Re:charge, it should satisfy most fitness enthusiasts. The true delight, though, is the open air pool on the second level. And not just for the cute cabanas positioned strategically to lounge around in. Food, that short cut to pleasure, is not ignored here either, a departure from Aloft hotels elsewhere. While re:fuel by Aloft is a one-stop, 24-hour grab-and-go food and beverage area, Nook is where SEpTEmbEr 2014
the guests’ hunger pangs are likely to be satiated. This 90-cover restaurant has an urbane café style and serves both Indian and international choices in cuisine, and even its breakfast options are much more elaborate than in an usual Aloft. Chef Sameer Luthra points to extensive choices, even the customisation that he caters to, especially for long stay guests who might miss home-cooked food. Among the highlights of the hotel is the vast meeting and banqueting space, unusual both for the brand and the upscale hotel segment. However, given that the huge business park has leading corporations – including the second largest CISCO office globally right next door – there is frequent demand for meeting spaces in the area. This Aloft is well placed to cash in. The meeting zones are spread across the first three levels of the hotel. The centrepiece, and the largest space is the ballroom, a 5,000 square feet banqueting area. Its special features include extremely high ceilings – 26.6 metres to ensure better acoustics, carpeted walls and wall panel screens. There are also seven meeting spaces, branded Tactic. An outdoor terrace, backyard, provides an option for creative spaces for business meetings or social gatherings. The hotel also has a separate, well equipped business centre. From games to special bedding, fun food to a special camp Aloft programme, there is lots for kids too. CEO LIFESTYLE
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The 1,399 square feet Presidential suite is of course, a different level of luxury, and expected to cater to CEOs who need to be in the neighbourhood
The rooms too set their own standard in design and functionality. The hotel has stylish guest rooms including 13 suites. Spacious, loftinspired guest rooms feature the brand’s signature nine-feet high ceilings, oversized windows, an ultra-comfortable platform bed and walk-in showers with bliss Spa bath amenities. The rooms are well provided for, with electronic devices, a good working desk, ample storage spaces, coffee maker, a large wardrobe, modern switches, a cleverly tucked ironing board, in short everything a business visitor is likely to need. The 1,399 square feet Presidential suite is of course, a different level of luxury, and expected to cater to CEOs who need to be in the neighbourhood. The sink bath alone would entice a lesser mortal for such perks. Each room is equipped with a unique plug-andplay connectivity solution that connects most electronic devices to the television, turning the room into a high-tech office as well as an entertainment centre. The lobby has in-touch terminals, which provide easy Internet access. The art in the hotel is all by Thota Tharrani, who has taken the direction of abstract contemporary art to represent the bold use of colours and the direction of geometric angles. “Aloft is a hotel with a very modern and contemporary design. Unlike other hotels, their designs are very clean and bold. Hence, I have used the same as inspiration in my work,” says Tharrani. As for the plane on the ceiling, it is an actual, yellow,.single-seater Cessna that hangs delicately balanced from the ceiling. Yes, the engine has been removed to reduce weight. Look out for the 12 airplane models strewn across the hotel. The hotel abounds in many such surprises. While the standard midscale hotel experience has been seen as wallet-friendly but not memorable, a stay at Aloft is likely to change that impression considerably. No longer will ‘select service’ be a code for an apologetic, lesser than satisfying service. regard Aloft as ‘speciality select’.
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A Vision in
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A chair under a thatched umbrella, the endless carpet of sand, and the turquoise Indian Ocean cast a serene spell as you raise your glass to the clear blue skies and toast to a good life. Wouldn’t that be a wondrous sight to behold? Zanzibar White Sand Luxury Villas and Spa beckons you to experience bliss, says Nifty Jacob.
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Living in-STYLE
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Across the eastern shore of Tanzania, an archipelago is tucked in the infinite waters of the Indian Ocean. Zanzibar, one among the two main islands, has for ever been a favourite among travellers and nature lovers. Blending tropical goodness with deluxe services, Zanzibar White Sand Luxury Villas and Spa is the latest addition off the pristine white shore of Paje beach. About 40 kilometres away from Zanzibar airport, the boutique resort will leave you in awe. There is nothing like the soothing effect exuded by the serene white and earthy tones of the villas designed by renowned architect, Neil Rocher. The villas overlook a stunning view of the beach that is just 200 metres away with private access. And if you were under the impression that this resort is just like the hundreds of other beach resorts with a horde of tourists, raucous kids running around the beach shattering your dream of a peaceful vacation, boy would you be wrong. The resort houses only 11 villas on a vast expanse of four hectares – and that’s it. And that is the reason Zanzibar White Sand Luxury promises to cater to your every whim and fancy and customize your holiday as you please. If it is a romantic getaway that you seek, the Beachfront One Bedroom Villas positioned right across the beach will win you over. On the other hand, the Two Bedroom Villa is ideal for a small family of four. And if you are travelling CEO LIFESTYLE
with a larger group, the Presidential Five Bedroom Suite can comfortably host a party of upto 10. The suite comprises three en-suite bedrooms and a Jacuzzi. Each unit is designed to pamper you with the highest degree of luxury. The main area includes a high ceiling lounge with wooden beams and a spacious dining area connected to the bedroom by a garden with a terrace and a private pool. The best of nature adorns every aspect of the resort. The bedroom, with its wooden flooring and bed frame, is more like a picture from the enchanted forest. Large glass walls and windows open up to a cosy private pool nestled in the fine sand amidst swooping palm groves. After a dip in the sea, you can walk back and take a shower in the outdoor bathtub, as you wash away the sea salts and watch the sky paint a picture of the sunset. Standing at the threshold of the open balcony, the whistling winds and crashing waves sound like an orchestra being played just for you. Between all the neutral shades are the picturesque gardens with a dash of colour, an ideal place to settle down with a drink and experience the wind teasing your hair and kissing your skin. Our favourite choice of pastime would be to rest on the Star Bed and gaze at the starlit skies at night. If you need a refill, just call for your private butler who is ready to provide anything you need or want. It is royal pampering indeed at this place.
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But for all its opulent workmanship and deluxe offerings, it is comforting to know that the luxury you enjoy is not provided at the cost of jeopardising nature. The unobtrusive architecture has been designed with an effort to preserve the rich landscape of Zanzibar. Power is sourced from sustainable sources of wind and solar energy, with a state of the art wind turbine and solar panels. Additionally, a desalination plant within the resort takes care of all the water requirements. In keeping with the true tropical spirit, at The Restaurant, you can treat yourself to fresh catch from the deep seas, especially the Rock Lobster, which is a revelation. Dishes served blend international flavours with the local Zanzibarian cuisine to give you a fabulous gourmet experience. The resort uses only organic fruit and vegetables grown in the plantation under eco-friendly conditions which guarantee the finest quality. The restaurant, with simple yet elegantly done up interiors, overlooks a large central pool. The Bar has more of a relaxed atmosphere and you could either have a refreshing evening cocktail here or choose to dine under the azure sky on the Rooftop Lounge. Apart from the beautiful beach and extravagant accommodation, you can also look forward to some action packed water sports, the highlight of which is Kite Surfing. The shallow waters and the excellent climate have made Paje a renowned location for this water sport. It doesn’t matter CEO LIFESTYLE
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Living in-STYLE
Picture Courtesy: Zanzibar White Sand Luxury Villas & Spa CEO LIFESTYLE
if you have never done this before. Zanzibar Kite Paradise offers lessons by instructors certified by the International Kiteboarding Organization that will give you a hang of the sport and get you going. You can choose from the 12-hour, nine-hour or three-hour beginner’s pack that costs between 130 Euros and 490 Euros. If you are an experienced surfer and would rather refresh your skills, you can opt for the two-hour pack that comes at 115 Euros. The best time for kite surfing is from December to March and June to September. But wait, that is not all. How about taking a fishing trip in the deep blue seas or snorkelling, perhaps? Hop into your personal dhow right outside your villa and visit the coral reef, about 2 kilometres away from the shore. Should you be interested in more, the resort can organize for a Spice Tour or take you on a visit to Stone Town, which is also a World Heritage Site. And before it is time to rest your eyes, you must sneak in a therapy session from the Spa. Imagine being pampered in a tropical setting with a waterfall in view. You can choose from a wide variety of treatments and if you are on a honeymoon or with a loved one, the spa also offers a couple’s package. The products used, like seaweed, coconut and spices are sourced from local communities in Zanzibar. You could also simply catch a break in the steam room or the sauna. By evening, the resort transforms into a nocturnal fantasy. More than anything else, Zanzibar White Sand Luxury Villas and Spa is one of our top picks this year for a honeymoon or if you are up for it, a second honeymoon. Tariff starts at 490 US Dollars and is subject to change, based on the season. For details visit, http://www.whitesandvillas.com/
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A TWINKLE FOR YOUR HOME When one visits The White Window, a stylish décor store by Twinkle Khanna, one can’t help but admire the lady for her aesthetic sense, says Momy Saikia. She talks to the actress and now a flourishing interior designer about her love for all things beautiful and proving her mettle.
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She has a penchant for excelling in everything she undertakes. From winning the Filmfare Award for Best Female Debut to being an award winning interior designer today, she has certainly made her mark. She is Twinkle Khanna, owner and head designer at The White Window (TWW). “The White Window signifies a clear and pure vision, much like starting something on a clean slate,” says Twinkle. Indeed, unlike the popular luxury home decor products, the exquisite collection at TWW is characterized by vibrant colours and a seamless blend of funky designs and luxurious textures. “I think that TWW has a strong
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style statement. We believe in casual luxury and embrace the philosophy that beautiful things are meant to be enjoyed every day and not just on special occasions.” No wonder then, that her refined collections have affordable price tags, although the regular visitors to the store are some of the most noted celebrities in the city. The myriad products at TWW include home accents, paintings, crockery, lighting and even vintage pieces. Although the collections are distinct in design, Twinkle draws inspiration from a common source. “I think my designs are inspired by Spanish architecture and hence my work is
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influenced by their fashion trends. I also look up to various designers like Gaudi and Paola Navone who make a distinct style statement. Mughal motifs are also a prominent feature in many of my designs.” Distinct designs are so perfectly blended at the store that they can make for a perfect picture in any home decor magazine. Some of the highlights include vintage Texan inspired design of a four-seater outdoor table, wooden vintage wardrobe, an exclusive candle collection by Faraway Tree, including the unique skull and knucklehead candles and hand painted acrylic candles, Blue Skull and French Boulanger cushions, American vintage design inspired trendy suitcases and storage units that double up as tables, a wooden fan with built in brass light and a hand stitched leopard pattern leather carpet. Designed for the discerning customers of today, almost every item is carefully crafted to offer style with a purpose. “We curate our products with great precision and try out everything before we put them out for sale,” says Twinkle about her unique collection. “When I am designing spaces I first take a scientific approach and then work on the aesthetics, but when it comes to designing my products, I reverse my approach,” she adds. Inspired by art, Twinkle also keeps a selective collection of artwork by renowned artists like Rahul Gunjan, Dawat Singh, Vaikuntam, Sushant Pandey, Narasimhulu Kandi and Ramesh Gorjala at TWW. She also likes to render her artistic CEO LIFESTYLE
touch to selected artwork, especially the ones she handpicks for her little customers. There is also a selected collection of Twinkle’s rendition of a few popular places in Paris, including the Boulevard de la Madeleine and Avenue de La Motte-Picquet. A doting mother of two, it is no surprise that Twinkle keeps a large collection for children at TWW. The owl is the bird of the season and is imprinted across a range of products, from cushion covers to paintings. Such is the reign of the bird at the moment that Twinkle has even imposed the face of an owl on a lion painting for children. Probably inspired by the recent arrival of her daughter into the world, she also has a collection with floral, cupcake, castle prints in pink specifically for little girls. For ladies, TWW also houses salwar-kurtas in bright colours and floral prints with zari embroidery. Despite offering almost everything you can think of in home decor, TWW also offers custom made products on request. Today, Twinkle Khanna is well-known name in the industry. However, it wasn’t an easy start, even for her. “I started working in the field of interior design in 2000 and opened my first store in 2002. I was pregnant with my first child at the time and yet I was working relentlessly. It wasn’t easy but I felt that I had a lot to prove to myself and to the world. Now, after almost 12 years, I am more relaxed.” And, when asked about her family’s involvement in her business, a
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candid Twinkle says, “Although my family is not involved in my business, they do support my work.” Extending her support to her peers, Sanvari Alagh and Anjori Alagh, Twinkle recently hosted a pop up event for their brand House Proud, which sells luxury home decor products online. On display was their exclusive ‘Flower Power’ collection of tea and coffee sets, cake servers and appetizer plates. TWW also launched its new ‘Waterfall Collection’ at the event. The collection comprises an opulent range of glassware, trays and throw cushions. Talking about her future plans, Twinkle tells us that she is working towards expanding her business into Europe and other countries. She adds that the Indian market also has a lot of potential. “When I started in this field I felt that there were very few things available here in India and we had to even make our own couches and lights. However, today the market has opened up and the clients have a greater level of exposure, as they are very well travelled, and know exactly what they want.” Although she has already made a mark with her work, Twinkle is still unrelenting in bringing the best in interior designing to her customers. Leaving us with a home decor tip, Twinkle says “always work with a neutral palette in your big pieces and fixed pieces like flooring and furniture, and to add colour and style use accessories like cushions, candles, art and wallpaper”. CEO LIFESTYLE
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Extending her support to her peers, Sanvari Alagh and Anjori Alagh, Twinkle recently hosted a pop up event for their brand House Proud, which sells luxury home decor products online
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Where Tradition meets Contemporary
Picture Courtesy: The Home of The Traveler
Across the space of The Home of The Traveler rests a multitude of artefacts, from mammoth figures and chandeliers to tiny ceramic pots and paintings. The boutique outlet by fashion emperor JJ Valaya is a one stop destination that ties time, history and adventure into a stunning collection of must-have pieces, discovers Nifty Jacob.
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Armani, Versace and Ralph Lauren need no introduction. The leading houses in the fashion fraternity initiated their stronghold with couture garments, replete with an unmatched sartorial sense. In time, the labels ventured into a new form of fashion that transformed into fine art. Back home, JJ Valaya, the man behind The Home of The Traveler has CEO LIFESTYLE
done something similar too. Well known for his opulent and extravagant taste, The Home of the Traveler is his “big entry into a new sphere” to commemorate his love for art coupled with the spirit of adventure and travel. It goes without saying that the concept store which has for long been in the limelight is in keeping with Valaya’s taste of all things grand.
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The boutique is an array of rare and precious artefacts that have been personally handpicked by Valaya, across time and culture. The result has been rather impressive, we would say. From silverware to chandeliers and furniture, the store is an amalgamation of exquisite products and is nothing short of a collector’s haven. “The artefacts are sourced from small spaces in large cities that you never knew existed,” Valaya tells us. Some of the products have also been made by local craftsmen exclusively for THT. The concept store is divided into six unique concepts, India, Glamour, Art Deco, World, Organic and Vintage, with a separate floor dedicated to each of them. The goal was to provide offerings that would cater to different genres, thus making THT a one stop destination. Think India, and there are blue coloured elephants in ceramic, pumpkins made of fine marble and portraits of Gods that deck the space reflecting a fine blend of tradition and contemporary. Art Decor is an interpretation of modern designs and accents, with clean lines and detailing that exude a subtle elegance. Opulence adorns the Vintage section with Victorian style, rich furniture and small artefacts like clocks. Glamour offers products with a burst of golden hues, metallic effects and a clear sheen. We are talking of pears made of gold leaves to ivory and bronze coloured candle stands that cast dancing shadows. You can also find nature in its purest form, unfinished and untainted, from the deep browns of wood and floral motifs to beautiful corals from the sea at Organic. World, as you can guess is a global pot of rich products sourced from different time zones and traditions, with urns and plush carpets from the Middle East. “I find it important that the new and old must co-exist in harmony,” says Valaya, talking about the store where each object d’art has a unique story to tell and carries within it the taste, culture and beliefs of a different age, era and space. Valaya recounts the story of a black Buddha throne that he came across when in Thailand. One among a rare collection, the owner had to be pursued to no end in order to trade the throne. The collection at THT is an eclectic mix that has come over from South East Asia, Turkey and India. Plans are in place to source the next collection from the Mediterranean across Spain, Portugal and Morocco. The designer’s latest initiative is Valaya Homes, a new vertical that is expected to open by November. The concept works around custom-made decor and furnishings. From furniture to plush tapestries, bespoke is the operative word. THT living is a concept store that offers a similar experience with a simple digression of being more economical. The store also includes corporate gifting options with unique pen stands, paper trays and a variety of ethnic-styled accessories. “Art is a very important expression,” Valaya tells us. The story behind THT starts with his affinity towards fine art and a sense of freedom in being able to curate and produce fashion and art without any restriction and boundaries. While the world of fashion comes with a protocol of adhering to trend and colour forecasts, the world of art is open for each one to deduce and perceive as they fit. “Moreover, there is a vacuum in the Indian market when it comes to fine decor and rare art,” says Valaya. Well, not anymore. Now, how about revamping your living space with a hint of modern Spain or exotic Meditteranean?
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Bringing Peshawar to Mumbai There is Indian food and then there is Indian food that makes you come back for more. Chef Ajay Chopra works his magic at Kangan at The Westin Mumbai, says Prachi Joshi.
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Think North-Indian food and your mind is most likely to conjure up images of what is known as Northwest Frontier cuisine harking back to pre-Independence days when the province comprised north-west India and parts of Pakistan and Afghanistan. The tandoor (clay oven) played an important role in this traditional style of cuisine, characterised by cooking on a slow fire for a long time, with a judicious use of various masalas culminating in smoky-flavoured, succulent meats and vegetables. For Northwest Frontier cuisine, making its presence felt is Kangan at The Westin Mumbai Garden City, part of the Starwood Hotels and Resorts group. It certainly stands tall, soaring above the Western Express Highway at Goregaon
(East). From the 18th floor, where Kangan is located, the full-length glass windows offer a view to rival the Queen’s Necklace at Marine Drive. Tables line the glass periphery and there is booth seating as well as two private dining rooms. The décor is quietly minimalistic, none of the usual ‘rural Indian’ setting that is common to this genre of restaurants. Well, apart from the bangle-maker. This seventh-generation Rajasthani bangle-maker occupies a place of pride in the restaurant, making colourful ‘lac’ bangles to order. Executive Chef Ajay Chopra also oversees Kangan, ably assisted by the Chef De Cuisine, Shamsher Ahmed. “What we offer at Kangan is pure, soulful Indian food; we don’t want to do too many things and confuse people,” says Chef
frOM LEfT TO rigHT: Nalli Nihari, Paan aur Khubani Kulfi
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Chopra. The menu comprises kebabs, tandoor dishes, lots of meats, several interesting vegetarian dishes as well as a Jain selection. Several dishes have a tiny green streak next to their names on the menu and we ask Chef Chopra about it. “Westin is a wellness brand and we focus a lot on the health aspect in our menus, so we have incorporated superfoods into our dishes to offer a healthy meal to our guests,” says Chef Chopra. The green streak signifies that the dish contains superfoods, which may range from garlic, pumpkin and onions to blueberries, broccoli and walnuts. We started with Herbal Fare, a healthful and refreshing concoction of basil, mint, orange juice and honey. It is perfect for a muggy Mumbai evening and has the added advantage of the superfood, orange. Assorted kebabs arrived one by one – Sunehri Jhinga Lasooni, Chapli Kebab and Murgh Baghdadi Seekh, the last of which we particularly liked as it was a succulent seekh kebab stuffed with onions and chillies for added texture. From the vegetarian selection, we tried the Palak Anardana Tikki, Paneer Achari Tikka and Chowk ki Tikki. The Chow ki Tikki is a reinterpretation of the classic Delhi tikki, soft potato cakes with a tempering of green peas and topped with sweet and sour chutneys, a dish that will transport you straight to Chandni Chowk. The Palak Tikki was also quite interesting, with fresh pomegranate seeds that CEO LIFESTYLE
gave a nice crunch to the delicately flavoured spinach patty. One of my favourite starters was the Chatka Tangri Mirch, a mildly spicy chicken leg stuffed with cheese and chillies, which was quite earthy and chargrilled to perfection. For the main course, we tried one of the iconic Northwest Frontier dishes, Nalli Nihari. Lamb shanks, slow-cooked till the meat nearly falls of the bone, delicately flavoured with ginger and caramelised onions, and with a touch of saffron, a real treat for the senses. Meat lovers will wholeheartedly approve of this stellar dish. For the vegetarian option, we chose Chef Chopra’s signature dish Dal Kangan, hands down one of the best dal makhani preparations we have ever tasted. Dal Kangan is boiled for 40 hours in milk, which gives it a silky smooth texture, yet it is exceptionally light. The use of cream is minimal (just for finishing) and spice is restricted to red chillies, ginger and garlic, allowing the flavours of the black lentils to shine through. we could have happily made a meal of just Dal Kangan, with some of the fluffy Ajwaini Parothi Naan that came with the main course dishes. Apart from the regular menu, the restaurant also does occasional degustation menus with modern Indian food, paired with wines or fine whiskies. “Modern Indian food is becoming a big trend in India as well as abroad, where we are looking at the cuisine differently, presenting it in
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a cleaner form,” says Chef Chopra. So, dishes are plated in a deconstructed manner and curries usually strained to resemble light sauces. Expect to see Foie Gras Galauti, Chettinad Guinea Fowl, Quail Breast and other exotic ingredients given an Indian twist. Our favourite dessert at any Indian restaurant is Gulab Jamun and it is somewhat of a yardstick for us to judge the chef. Kangan’s Gulkand Gulab Jamun was certainly amongst the top three. The candied rose jam hidden inside the sweet dumplings added another dimension of flavour to the dessert. The other one that we tried was the Paan and Khubani Kulfi – deliciously creamy apricot kulfi with bits of fruit and with a hint of paan flavours. The dish was drizzled with a too-sweet paan-flavoured coulis, which we could have done without. The kulfi itself was quite refreshing and flavourful. The service at Kangan is impeccable, and coupled with the authentic frontier-style cuisine and an unparalleled view, it is the perfect restaurant for a special dinner. We left satiated and happy, and not without a custom-made bangle. frOM TOp: Chatka Tangdi Mirch, Dal Kangan, Gulkand Gulab Jamun
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In Bengaluru’s Persian Heaven A relatively uncommon cuisine, Persian fare is unique in its own right. And Bangaloreans are a really lucky lot to have one of the best Persian restaurants in the country right there in the city, says Neha Malude.
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Stepping inside The Persian Terrace is like walking into a world where time suddenly slows down to a gentle pace as opposed to Bengaluru’s always-in-a-hurry tendency. Located inside Sheraton Bangalore Hotel at Brigade Gateway in Malleshwaram, the restaurant is dimly lit with translucent, coloured glass lanterns that are a trademark of all things Middle Eastern. There is a soft buzz as strains of mellifluous music flow over the gentle breeze and the pleasing clink of cutlery resounds throughout the place. The decor mostly comprises of mahogany brown Rattan chairs and sofas and cream furnishings punctuated with coloured cushions here and there, unassuming yet elegant. CEO LIFESTYLE
As your eyes take in the surroundings, the word that comes to mind is ‘romance’, what with the al fresco seating, the lanterns and the open skies with twinkling stars. So, if you are planning to pop the question or celebrate a special anniversary, there is no better place in Bengaluru to do so. As we were escorted to our table by the staff, the unmistakable aromas of grilled meat wafting in set our appetites in overdrive. Though some might say that Persian cuisine is more or less the same as Lebanese, Greek or Turkish food, the fact is that the latter are influenced by it. The use of pomegranates, raisins, herbs, saffron and nuts is characteristic of Persian food.
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We started off with a vegetarian mezze platter, both hot and cold. We were served Kashk e Bademjan (roasted eggplant, yogurt, onion, garlic and herbs), Tabuleh (chopped parsley, tomato and cracked wheat drizzled with extra virgin olive oil and lemon juice), Hummus (chickpeas paste, garlic, lemon juice, olive oil and sesame seed paste) and Baba Ganouch (roasted eggplant, red and green capsicum, onion, garlic, fresh mint, lemon juice and extra virgin olive oil). The mezze was served along with bread, both soft and hard. The Hummus was a no-brainer, of course. Sometimes, the easiest yardstick to judge a restaurant’s food is to taste the simplest dish. If a bakery gets its vanilla cupcake right, you can be sure that the rest will be good too. Although an easy preparation, the hummus was our yardstick and it was fantastic. Creamy and richly flavoured with the sesame seed paste and olive oil, it was hard not to keep eating it. The Tabuleh was fresh and zingy, thanks to the abundant tang of lemon juice and the Kashk e Bademjan, bang on. The hot mezze platter comprised both vegetarian and meat. The Falafel, deep fried patties of chickpeas with parsley and sesame seeds was served with Tahina sauce, a common accompaniment. Anything deep fried has to be good, right? And this was no exception. The falafel was hot and its crispy CEO LIFESTYLE
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We also tried the stew with another kind of rice dish, Pilaf, which comes garnished with saffron and barberries that not only lend it a piquant taste but also make for gorgeous presentation
frOM LEfT TO rigHT: Chicken Soltani, Vegetarian Mezze Platter
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texture was perfect with the cold Tahina sauce. While you are trying Iranian, it would be a gastronomic sin of astronomical proportions (see what we did there?) not to try kabobs. Ask for Mahi e Kabob, a skewer of marinated grouper fillet, charbroiled with baghali (fava beans) and zereshk (a type of dried berry that is used in traditional Persian cooking, also called barberries). The fish was very soft and the grilled charred bits added that extra texture. On similar lines was the Joojeh e Kabob, where the tender chicken is enveloped by the strong flavour of saffron. The kabobs are very delicately seasoned so they are not like your usual Chicken tikka up north that is spicy and full of bold flavours, but are equally delicious. Before we move on to the mains, a word about the service, which was splendid. Every person on the staff is attentive and knowledgeable so if you are new to Iranian food, feel free to ask the chef or your server for recommendations. Since the stews especially caught our attention, we requested for Ghemieh Bedanjan, a Persian stew of meat, eggplant, dried limes and yellow split peas served over a bed of plain rice and saffron rice. That might sound simple but the complexity of this dish lies in the dried limes that provide a distinct sour taste as well as the use of ‘advieh’, a spice mixture used in Persian cooking that typically consists of cinnamon, cloves, cardamom, nutmeg, cumin and turmeric. Our only gripe with this was that it was a tad too sweet but this is a dish full of warmth and comfort. We also tried the stew with another kind of rice dish, Pilaf, which comes garnished with saffron and barberries that not only lend it a piquant taste but also make for gorgeous presentation. It is said that Iranians use these dried red berries to signify that life isn’t always sweet and that some times, one faces sourness too. A beautiful thought, no? Speaking of beautiful things, we were now craving for the sweet part of the meal. We asked for Kareem e Zaferan, a flan made with saffron and dates with flavoured syrup drizzled on top. The dates turned this dessert into a rich, sweet experience. But the revelation arrived in the form of Om Ali, a traditional Arabic sweet that is, we would say, a fancier cousin of bread pudding. Originally an Egyptian dessert, Om Ali is delightfully creamy and the mushy texture is offset by crunchy pistachio nuts with a sprinkling of cinnamon that gives it another dimension. We were officially in Persian heaven. It was a rather strenuous bit after that meal, getting up and walking away but not without looking back one final time to take it all in again — the lights, the stars and the aromas. frOM TOp: Mahi Kebab, Kabsah Rice, Mohalabia
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As if being a paradise already was not enough, Switzerland also wraps among its copious natural and culinary delights, a vinous experience that the burgeoning tribe of oenophiles has only recently begun to know and love, says Bhisham Mansukhani.
Switzerland is a land of miles of pristine landscape and natural produce borne of operose harnessing of the country’s varied soils and diversity of microclimates. There is an almost secret history of ferment that the Swiss save mostly for their family, friends and guests. Tourists, one supposes, are also privy to the wines. Indians, all of 5,50,000 of them, vacationed in Switzerland at last count, predominantly to
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relish its idyllic vistas lit up by the European summer. Now, wine might be that new compelling tourism magnet. Switzerland’s wine industry dates back to the Roman era when most of Europe was inside the empire’s footprint. It was after the phylloxera affliction in the late 19th century that wiped out nearly all European vines that the Swiss wine story took a decisive turn and the resurgent wine producers
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came into their own. With nearly half its vineyards lost to phylloxera, Swiss wine producers initially overproduced only to realise that the wine had lost its reputation for great quality. So, the emphasis shifted from volume to quality. This also explains why there isn’t much Swiss wine to go around in the rest of the world (only four per cent of its annual produce of 84 million litres is exported). Wine is produced in six Swiss cantons – eastern and Ticino, three lakes region (western Switzerland), Vaud and Valais adding up to 15,000 hectares under vines. And across these regions, the prime variety of grapes is Chasselas, which is orginially from France but is exclusively associated with Switzerland, so much so that the variety is mistakenly presumed a Swiss indigenous. The Swiss count among their other successful imports, Pinot Noir, Sylvaner, MüllerThurgau and Gamay while having planted indigenous crossbred varieties, Garanoir and Gamaret. Most Indian tourists are drawn to the city of Lausanne for the lakeside views and its rich history as well as modern
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landmarks like the International Olympic Committee but on another day, they might pencil it as their first stop on a revealing Swiss wine trail. The only Swiss wine region with a UNESCO World Heritage status, Vaud’s vineyards slope into the cavernous Lake Geneva. Vaud is the country’s second largest wine producer divided into three sub-regions of Chablais, La Côte and Lavaux, which is most accessible from Lausanne. This is where Chasselas gives a classic crisp fruity turn. Domaine Louis Bovard in Lavaux’s village of Cully is the one to pick to a get a sense of Lavaux’s history of wine making and perhaps one of its finest to taste from. The estate is credited with creating Lavaux’s first barrel aged expression of Chasselas and for famous French varieties such as Syrah and Sauvignon Blanc. Its quaint winery which doubles up as a tour down Lavaux’s wine history is one among many options to sample Domaine Louis Bovard’s wines. You could also choose a gorgeous wind-swept lakefront of suburban Ouchy and the sun-drenched patio of Auberge de la Crochettaz, an Indian restaurant. Both
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A Swiss wine pilgrimage is best rounded off with a hop across to the Germanic side (Eastern Switzerland) where Zürichsee is the largest wine region, just outside of Zurich
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Domaine Louis Bovard’s oak-aged Chasselas and red wine blends will match well with the restaurant’s authentic Indian fare, albeit tempered to European taste. The third more daring option entails smuggling the wine and glasses into the boogie backbench of a train that ferries locals and tourists hourly through Lavaux’s vineyards. Indian tourists choose Geneva as their second stop on whistle-stop tours, which in the case of wine is just as well since Geneva is Switzerland’s third biggest wine producer (12 million litres). The region draws from a natural arsenal of over 40 grape varieties to choose from, prime among which are Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, Viognier, Gewürztraminer, Pinot Noir, Merlot as well as local favourites, Chasselas and Garanoir. The wine region is a short scenic drive from the bustling city of Geneva and is divided into three distinct regions. Here, in the quaint village of Dardangny, a certain boutique and cult producer Stéphane Gros works his magic with the terroir and bottles it. Gros brims with stories about each of the 14 varietals he has planted on his eight hectares of vineyard. Lucky wine tourists can hear these from the young man himself at his rustic, almost barn-esque winery, tasting his wines – a bold, fuller style thanks to biodynamic viticulture, the use of local yeasts and relatively late picking. An ardent believer in the importance of the soil to make wine, Gros jovially remarks that he merely assists nature in turning out the style of wine she wanted mankind to savour. Two of these would certainly be the Stéphane Gros Pinot Noir Cuvee and the Assemblage Garance (a blend of Pinot Noir and Merlot). A Swiss wine pilgrimage is best rounded off with a hop across to the Germanic side (Eastern Switzerland) where Zürichsee is the largest wine region, just outside of Zurich. The region’s wine making history traces its roots back to the 16th century when monks planted vines on the steep banks of Lake Zurich. For centuries, these vineyards have produced interesting wines and served as a picturesque walking trail along the lake. Zurichsee’s vineyards abound with Pinot Noir, Müller-Thurgau and Pinot Gris (a conspicuous German influence) and an indigenous varietal, Räuschling. A highly recommended halt along Zürichsee’s stunning wine route is the boutique estate of Muli in the lakeside village of Stafa. Owners Stefan and Maya Reichling welcome tourists by appointment only, personally taking them through a grand experience of understanding the ferment’s journey from vine to bottle. Stefan is, in fact, Muli’s fourth-generation winemaker and doubles up as a veritable wine historian, talking about how the region’s climate has played a key role in creating a fine avatar of the Pinot Noir and Müller-Thurgau in this part of Switzerland where these varieties yield great wines.So, the next time you travel to Switzerland, step aside from the humdrum Swiss tour and take a walk down the innumerable wine destinations of this beautiful country.
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HEALTH
BODY BASicS
CEO LIFESTYLE
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Flash That Smile The charming victory smile after landing a huge deal, the ear-to-ear grin when the quarter meets expectations, the loving smile when greeting family after continuous travel – a lot banks on the CEO’s smile. Getting the perfect smile was never easier. Well, with a little advice of course, says Rekha Shanmugham.
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If you thought your smile was just another part of your face that went unnoticed most of the time, think again. At the high octane board meetings, at the press meets under the watchful eyes of the camera, on business channels where your face fills up the screen and during an unveiling where you pose next to the stunning model, would you rather flash a perfectly aligned set of pearly whites or yellowed and crooked teeth? Your smile is never one to escape people’s attention. In fact, it is most often the first thing that people notice about you, and a well maintained, attractive set of teeth speaks volumes about your personality and in turn your enterprise as well. And if you still have doubts regarding
CEO LIFESTYLE
the participation of teeth in your overall looks, we strongly advise you to browse through infamous ‘Before and After’ pictures of Tom Cruise and Cristiano Ronaldo in particular. Awareness about cosmetic dentistry, especially amongst the affluent section of the population has skyrocketed in our country in the recent past. This branch of dentistry concerns itself with the aesthetics rather than the health of teeth. Teeth whitening, coatings like laminates, veneers and crowns, contouring, gum-related procedures, dentures and periodontal surgery are some of the most opted-for treatments in the sphere. The domain is huge and highly diversified to cater to each and every specific problem.
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BODY BASicS
Take gums, for instance. Have you always felt that your smile is too gummy, making you look like the horse in your kid’s favourite cartoon? Crown lengthening comes to your rescue to increase the prominence of teeth. If unevenly coloured gums are preventing you from flashing your teeth, remember that gum de-pigmentation can be done to make them pinker in colour. Elaborating on some of the other gum-related options available, Dr. Rashika Vijan, aesthetic and cosmetic dentist, Dr. Rashika Vijan’s Dental Studio, Mumbai, says, “Gingivetomy consists of the contouring of the gums for better function and aesthetics. Alveoloplasty is a procedure in which an incision is made on the gums in order to reduce any bony, prominent areas and to contour it.” The cost for each treatment is, of course, case specific and can go up to a lakh starting from a few thousand rupees. Teeth whitening has turned out to be one of the most common procedures in cosmetic dentistry. Of the various teeth whitening techniques available, professional tooth whitening inside the dental office is the preferred one, according to Dr. Deepalakshmi, periododontist and implantologist at Dentistree, a chain of dental care hospitals spread across the state of Tamil Nadu and Pondicherry. In fact, professional in-house teeth whitening is said to be the most popular cosmetic dental procedure in the world today. “Even though strong agents are applied, the rest of the CEO LIFESTYLE
mouth, including the gums, is protected from these materials. The best whitening system features a buffer in the gel that protects the tooth enamel from damage, is extremely effective and transforms the teeth in a single office visit. Teeth can be literally brightened up to 10 shades in an hour,” she says. As with any field, cosmetic dentistry is constantly evolving and more patient-friendly procedures are making the headlines. “Laser surgery for correction of gum deformities and latest surgical techniques to correct a gummy smile like lip repositioning surgery are some of the recent developments,” says Dr. Deepalakshmi. For minor teeth alterations, super thin or ultra thin veneers are the best bet. For starters, the material resembles your teeth the closest, ensuring that you do not draw attention to them for all the wrong reasons. You don’t want to perpetually look like you are heading to a Halloween bash dressed as Dracula, do you? Other advantages include longevity and the minimal to no removal of tooth surface and circumventing the problem of teeth grinding. Laser technology, on the other hand, is a godsend for the ‘a visit to the dentist is my worst nightmare’ community that keeps procrastinating until absolutely necessary. The most popular dentist caricature of him drilling your teeth with all his might while you lie there helpless needn’t torment you anymore, for lasers can replace the dental drill, says Dr. Vijan. “A laser is more precise in cutting the tooth surface
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and it also minimizes the time taken, as well as the pain associated with it,” she elaborates. Hard tissue laser caters to the hard tissue while soft tissue laser to the softer ones such as gums. “It is extremely useful for periodontal surgeries as it is minimally invasive, reduces the amount of bleeding and prevents the risk of infection.” On the other hand, if lack of time is your problem, you could explore several technologies that promise faster results, for instance the Fastbraces Technology. However, be well informed about the scope of treatment. “Treatments such as Fastbraces do not work for severe cases of overcrowding or gaps. Although they are safe and effective, they may not necessarily address the problem of bite correction,” opines Dr. Vijan. “Other orthodontic treatments also achieve alignment easily, but the remaining months are used for the teeth to fit well together and bite correction.” At this juncture, let’s also debunk the myth that age plays spoilsport when it comes to cosmetic dentistry. Technology, to a large extent, has made it possible for the treatments to be inclusive, the recent bevy of older people opting for orthodontic treatments standing testimony to that. But for you to be able to flash your newfound asset infinitely, after care is absolutely essential. It is no rocket science. Remember your mother asked you to brush twice, rinse and floss every day? Add a healthy diet and regular visits to the dentist to that and you are set. CEO LIFESTYLE
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Be smile-ready, always • Always make dental appointments before travelling to avoid any discomfort in the days ahead • If you are already going through a procedure, it is best to finish it and alternatively carry a few OTC (over the counter) medicines as prescribed by your dentist • A travel toothbrush comes in handy during long flights • Chewing on sugar-free chewing gums, parsley and mint leaves acts as a deodorizer. It also increases the flow of saliva in your mouth, washing away bacteria that cause bad breath • In case of sudden toothaches, rinse your mouth with warm water and apply a cold compress on the area of the cheek directly outside the affected area • In case of a bitten tongue or lip, a cold compress can be directly applied on the affected area
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BODY BASicS
Put your best face forward The word CEO could very well be a synonym for globetrotter in today’s scenario. Many as the benefits of travelling may be, an unfortunate by-product is the damage caused to skin. But doesn’t being the face of the company mean that you always look your best? CEO Lifestyle demystifies the key to skincare while travelling.
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Skincare while travelling is no rocket science and can for all practical purposes, be looked at as an extension of the regular skincare routine. What makes it slightly different are the extended hours on the flight which leads to rapid dehydration amongst several other things and the drastic changes in the climatic conditions of the places that make up your agenda. First things first, it is imperative that you do a little research on the weather of the destinations on your list and make sure you take Google’s advice on what to expect when you land there. For all you know, the hottest dessert could be experiencing a torrential downpour and the huge bottle of sunscreen you managed to grab on your way to the airport might have to be left untouched. Make sure you pack well in advance so as to not miss out on the essentials. The holy trio of cleanser, toner and moisturizer? Check. The golden rule of cleansing, toning and moisturizing dare not be taken for granted and especially CEO LIFESTYLE
while travelling, for it tends to wreak even more havoc while on the go. The indispensable mighty bottle of sunscreen and a gentle exfoliant for humid conditions, check. Don’t forget the make-up remover and cotton swabs, ladies. Also, stock up on the body butter, a must in dry, cold and wintry places. What people often tend to forget are speciality products like anti-wrinkle and under-eye creams. If you are one of those waging the perpetual battle against acne, make sure that you carry your anti-acne cream along with you; the slightest increase in temperature or humidity coupled with dehydration and sleeplessness could pose great problems. You don’t want to enter a board meeting with your skin resembling sandpaper, do you? Sure, you can reach for a concealer but the confidence that a naturally glowing and radiant skin can provide is simply unmatchable. Also, investing in a mediumsized bottle of omega-3 supplements is a good way to ensure that your skin gets its necessary daily nourishment.
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Make sure you carry a non-alcoholic face mist to hydrate your face during travel and also ensure that the make-up stays alive. Dabbing more blush or base isn’t particularly a wise option. Also remember that blotting papers come in handy during travel, especially if you are ‘blessed’ with the T -zone that works overnight to produce oil. You could also try your hand at some shimmer powder to give your face an instant lift while travelling. Once the packing is done, there is always the dilemma of what to carry along with you. Making this decision is mighty important as it most often dictates how you look as soon as you land and as they always say, the first impression is the best. Suffering from parched lips? A lip balm is your best buddy. It is a great way to add colour without dehydrating as is a cream blush. The holy trio is a must too, apart from the sunscreen, hats and sunglasses, especially if you are flirting with the equator. (Remember sunglasses are a great way to hide fatigue as well, especially if you are one of those who refuse to be bothered with strenuous routines). Scarves and gloves are a must for the cold and dry places and double up as effective protection from the scorching heat too. On the D-day, remain stress-free. Begin with the usual cleanse-tone-moisturize routine. It is best to do away with foundation but if you are a foundation addict, consider using a primer to ensure that that the skin doesn’t get dehydrated. Intense moisturizing is important to combat the dehydrating effects of cabin pressure. Dab adequate amounts of sunscreen with a high level of SPF. Here is a piece of trivia: at high altitudes, UV radiation is said to be exponentially higher and more in intensity and is said to make its way through airplane windows. Well, you don’t want to fall victim, more so if the levels of melanin produced by your skin are minimal. All said and done, what you consume during the travel plays a pivotal role. Skin, as we already know, mirrors the inside quite precisely as opposed to hair, which takes a while to reflect the lifestyle. So, tempting as certain foods offered onboard might be, stay away from the spicy, salty, oily and sugary ones, especially during long travel hours. Alcohol is best consumed in moderation too. And remember to keep yourself hydrated at all times. The regular green tea drinker could revel in several cups of the hot drink. Fresh fruit juices are a safe bet too, or simply hydrating yourself with water would do, but it is an absolute must. Arrival is the tricky bit. If you are meeting someone important right away, it is better to freshen up with the three-part routine and don a pair of sun glasses should the bags under your eyes be stubborn. A tinted moisturizer could lend brightness to your face. Make sure you wear sunscreen a good 20-30 minutes before you step out, especially if the journey from the airport to the hotel is a long one. As soon you reach your place of stay, hydrate yourself and opt for a light meal. Even if you are fatigued, get yourself to apply a refreshing face mask as you rest your tired legs in a tub of warm water. Ensure that you get a good night’s sleep and you are sure to ace that board meeting the next day. Just don’t forget to flash the winning smile! Never get lazy with skincare during travel, a daily clean up comprising of the three-part routine is an absolute must. CEO LIFESTYLE
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HOLiSTic HEALing
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Set Your
Spirit Free
The scent of therapy oils mingled with that of delicate rose petals and the surreal beauty of Mughal motifs at ITC Maratha’s Kaya Kalp Spa leave Ushamrita Choudhary with a novel, indulgent experience like no other. She recounts an afternoon of tender, loving care that ended in spiritual bliss.
HOLiSTic HEALing
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I was running late for my appointment at the Kaya Kalp Spa located at the grand ITC Maratha. Thanks to a few engagements delayed in the morning due to the incessant rain, by the time I reached the Maratha, I was already a few hours late. “Here goes,” I thought to myself. “I’ve been invited to a lovely spa session at the Kaya Kalp, and the least I could do is reach on time,” I kept mumbling to myself under my breath. A few minutes after my arrival, I was greeted at the Peshwa tradition inspired hotel lobby where I noticed the Pali-engraved glass panels that acted as a subtle separator between the main entrance and the central atrium of the Maratha – the glass panels are truly an exquisite piece of art, unusual and laboriously crafted. After an hour-long sojourn taking in the sights and sounds of the ITC Maratha, I was finally ushered towards the Kaya Kalp Spa. I could breathe in the tranquillity from afar. The gentle perfume of therapy oils, delicate rose petals floating gently on the water contained in pristine white marble carved in the form of a flower, the regal embroidery of red and white stone on the floor, and the intricate Mughal leitmotifs adorning the walls of the Spa engrossed my senses. I was mesmerised by what I saw, and after a synapse that seemed to last a few minutes, I was brought back to my senses by Yangam, my therapist, who led me to the suite where I was to receive the Spa’s signature treatment - The Pomegranate Scrub - followed by an essential oils massage that would last CEO LIFESTYLE
for an hour. The Kaya Kalp is an elaborate centre of therapy spread across 10,000 square feet. It is said that Emperor Babur first introduced the pomegranate to India from his homeland Ferghana. Since then, this red-coloured fruit has come to embody all that is regal and opulent, yet sustainable and humble. The intense crimson colour symbolizes all that is luxurious, while the fruit, in entirety, stands for complete usability, and in this usability lies its inherent humility. Using the pomegranate as the inspiration for the décor of the Spa, one is treated to the spectacle of an elegant design philosophy, with heavy Mughal influences on the architecture of the place, married with fine silver-leaf and latticework on the walls. While I stepped carefully on the floor replete with rubyred engineered stone inlaid in white terrazzo flooring, I was afraid I might step on one of the beautiful flowers that paved my way to the therapy suites. However, I was mindful of my state of reverie, and thankfully, I reached my serene chamber without much ado. Yangam showed me around the suite, which was going to be my peaceful haven for the next hour and a half. Mother-of-pearl tables and the pomegranates designed in silver leaf decorate every suite, which lies behind a wooden door that displays beautiful designs made by hammering in nails. A continuation of the latticework on the walls of the treatment rooms creates the perfect environment within the treatment suite. It is at once alluring and fascinating. The Spa houses five single suites, one superior
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couple’s suite, one standard couple’s suite, an Ayurvedic suite that has a Dharadhoni bed carved out of a single Neem tree, and a set-up for Thai treatments. Starting with a footbath for my tired legs, Yangam led me to the massage bed. And then the magic began. A thorough pomegranate scrub covered every inch of my body. The masseuse used firm and swift strokes that allowed for the mildly scented scrub to work its way through my fatigued skin. The natural oils of the pomegranate percolated every possible point underneath my skin. Just when I thought I couldn’t get enough of the scrubbing, I was asked to take a quick shower so that we could move on to the next step – a sumptuous oil massage with essential oils. A warm shower later, as I cozied up in the fluffy bathrobe, Yangam asked me to get ready for the oil massage. “Can I have this robe on, please?” I thought to myself. Every bit of this experience was spoiling me beyond redemption. As I lay face down on an undulating platform that takes on the contours of the human body, I felt Yangam’s cold fingertips cascade down the calves of my legs in a steady, rhythmic fashion. I could tell she was totally devoted to the task on hand with the earnestness with which she carried out the massage. She was thoughtful to keep asking whether the pressure she was applying was alright lest I feel uncomfortable in the midst of the massage. While my knotted body eased itself and released all its stress through Yangam’s benevolent massage, I could feel a sense of calm take over me. I was conscious of the advent of the massage all the while, but at the same time, I felt this lightness of being. The jamboree of thoughts and tasks clogging my mind seemed to arrange itself sequentially in my sub-conscience. Perhaps this is what it felt like to CEO LIFESTYLE
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A thorough pomegranate scrub covered every inch of my body. The masseuse used firm and swift strokes that allowed for the mildly scented scrub to work its way through my fatigued skin
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HOLiSTic HEALing
Picture Courtesy: ITC Maratha, Mumbai be ‘centered’? I don’t practise meditation, so I wouldn’t know how that feels, but I achieved my self-defined nirvana, a state of calmness I have probably never felt before. I was awoken by the dulcet sound of a bell, an alarm that signalled the end of my 60-minute massage. Yangam greeted me with a smile as I tried to wake up from my trance and get my ‘real’ senses back in order. “Madam, the therapy is over. Please take a shower now,” I heard her say. “Why so soon? I need more of this tender, loving care!” I said in my mind. Too much of nothing is desirable, not even rest and rejuvenation, I reminded myself, and I got off the wave-surfaced massage bed straight into the white marble shower. When I walked out of the treatment suite, I felt lighter. The Spa experience was a complete exercise in cleaning the clutter that corrupted my mind, body and soul. “You look so fresh!” exclaimed Rini as I approached her. That statement was enough for me to justify the longing of another such experience soon again. The Kaya Kalp Spa experience is one that will linger with you long past your session is over. The humility and wisdom a therapist endows upon guests reflects in the way they feel post the therapy. Massages are aplenty, but therapies are rare. At the Kaya Kalp, you will surely have an experience that goes beyond your immediate surroundings and transports you into a realm of spiritual bliss. CEO LIFESTYLE
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CELEBRATE WHERE EVERY SIMPLE OCCASSION, BECOMES A GRAND CELEBRATION. Celebrate business success at the Crowne Plaza Kochi with a touch of leisure and panoramic views of backwaters, combined with exquisite cuisine and rejuvenate at our Sohum Spa. Our variety of authentic culinary outlets, extensive spa and leisure facilities, and high-tech meeting spaces for up to 900 people, all within a tranquil waterfront setting, makes Crowne Plaza Kochi the preferred international brand for business, leisure and events.
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EVENTS
SiTES & SOunDS
Festivities at Flanders
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This year in September, Flanders will turn into a music lover’s Mecca. How, you ask? The Ghent Festival of Flanders, which is in its 57th edition, attracts over 55,000 visitors each year with over 180 classical concerts and more than 1500 international artists from all over the world. The music extravaganza begins with OdeGand, the annual opener of the cultural season which is a celebration of music on and along Ghent’s canals. Imagine rowing a boat as you enjoy the music and hopping from one concert to the next to experience all genres, be it jazz, flamenco or classical music. Whatever you do, don’t miss the mesmerizing musical happening at Graslei and Korenlei in the night followed by a bonfire on the first night of the festival. On the 19th, you must catch ‘Kiss and Cry’, a beautiful mix of dance, theatre and film created by movie director Jaco Van Dormael and choreographer Michele Anne De Mey. For all those who love the piano, don’t miss the performance by renowned Russian pianist, CEO LIFESTYLE
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Nikolal Lugansky, on 18th of September. But the highlight of the event has to be the performance of The Recycled Orchestra, a world-famous group of artists who perform using instruments made from garbage. The musical group was formed in Cateura, a village that was built on the largest garbage dump in Paraguay. The group was founded by the conductor of the group, Favio Chávez and has already performed in several countries, and also has a performance with Metallica to its credit. Those who are travelling with children also have a lot to look forward to. Kids get a special treat on September 14th at the KidsOdeGand, which grants access to the boat journey around Ghent. There will also be mini concerts to witness. Downtown Ghent will become a huge musical playground where children will be captains. There is something for everyone here, so put Flanders on your 2014 travel list for sure. For more information, visit http://www.gentfestival. be/en
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Picture Courtesy: A Kupka
Beertastic in Bavaria
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Possibly one of the world’s most well-known festivals ever, this year’s Oktoberfest would be the 181st in Munich, Germany. It is said that although much of Oktoberfest revolves around beer, the festival started off as a celebration of the marriage of Prince Ludwig and Therese of Saxe-Hildburghausen. The festival is attended by over six million people every year and is an important part of the Bavarian culture. Oktoberfest begins with the Lord Mayor of Munich pulling the festival’s first 1 litre beer mug to mark the start of the festivities. Thereafter, follows a traditional costume parade from Maximilian Street through the centre of Munich to the Oktoberfest grounds. Various Munich breweries seat over a thousand people each, who revel in several types of beer, accompanied by music and food. But that is not all – during the 17-day long festival, visitors can enjoy many other attractions such as amusement rides. And let us not forget the food, shall we? Take your pick from a wide range of food – Hendl, (roast CEO LIFESTYLE
chicken), Schweinebraten (roast pork), Steckerlfisch (grilled fish on a stick), Würstl (sausages) along with Brezen (pretzel), Sauerkraut and much, much more. The traditional beers allowed at Oktoberfest are Augustiner-Bräu, Hacker-Pschorr-Bräu, Löwenbräu, Paulaner, Spatenbräu and Staatliches HofbräuMünchen. As far as music goes, visitors will be enthralled by a bevy of music artists and performers from all over the world. A word of advice to newbies – the most important rule of Oktoberfest is that everyone at the table drinks together and clinks glasses before taking a sip. Don’t forget to make eye contact before you start guzzling and say cheers (Prost in German). If you are looking for stay options, the famous King Ludwig Castle Neuschwanstein or the well known resort Garmisch-Partenkirchen with its mountain scenery of the Bavarian Alps is a great option. So what’re you waiting for? Book that ticket now. For more information, visit http://www.oktoberfest. de/en/
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Mark Your Calendar 13 19
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What: Forget Eiffel Tower What: If you are in the What: There is no better way and participate in the USA this September, to enjoy beer than paris Techno parade catch the 3-day long at the world-famous this year, where street Monterey Jazz Festival, Oktoberfest in Germany, music fills the streets a culmination of the right? But the 16-day of paris and goes on till world’s best Jazz artists. long festival is about so the wee hours. A must-visit for all the much more than just ale. Jazz lovers out there. Head there and find out When: Sept 13, 2014 what! When: Sept 19-21, 2014 Where: paris, France When: Sep 20 - Oct 05, 2014 Where: Monterey, California Where: Munich, Germany
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What: Check out the London What: Catch one of nature’s Design Festival, a 9-day most intriguing affair that celebrates phenomena at the London as the world’s Equinox at Chichen Itza design capital. Join this year, as the famed over 200,000 others to shadowy snake crawls learn about the city’s down the Pyramid of craftsmen and of course, Kukulcán. This happens shop. just twice a year, so don’t miss it! When: Sep 13 - 21, 2014 When: Sept 23, 2014 Where: London, UK Where: Chichen Itza, Mexico
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What: EDM fans, attention! The Decibel Festival is here with its fabulous line up of techno artists and mind blowing music. When: Sep 24 - 28, 2014 Where: Seattle, Washington
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What: Love oysters? Head to the Galway Oyster Festival in Ireland this year for a culinary extravaganza dedicated to this humble seafood in all its glory. Plus, oyster shucking contests, cook-offs, tastings and even cooking classes. Interested? When: Sep 25 - 28, 2014 Where: Galway, Ireland
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What: Get set for a 4-day, non-stop party in Barcelona’s Les Festes de la merce as Spaniards get ready to entertain with parades of mythical characters, dances, street theatre and lots of food. When: Sept 19-24, 2014 Where: barcelona, Spain
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What: Watch in awe as talented artists, dressed in matching costumes create human towers nine storeys tall! The Concurs de Castells is a powerful display of human strength and showmanship. When: Sept 28, 2014 Where: Tarragona, Spain