"OF ALL THE MONTHS OF THE YEAR THERE IS NOT A MONTH ONE HALF SO WELCOME TO THE YOUNG, OR SO FULL OF HAPPY ASSOCIATIONS, AS THE LAST MONTH OF THE YEAR."
- Charles Dickens
Winter has a way of slowing down the world just enough for us to feel its quiet magic and to notice the stories waiting to be discovered. This issue of Hello 6E leans into those very stories that shape our journeys; stitched with winter light, heritage, flavour, and discovery.
Across India, the season unveils a world of adventure, from the snow-draped trails of Uttarakhand and the frozen Chadar Trek, to the quiet monasteries and wild valleys of Arunachal Pradesh and Ladakh. These are India’s coolest escapes, which are raw, remote, and unforgettable.
As December unwraps, London dazzles in full festive sparkle. Think Dickensian lanes humming with carols, frosted windowpanes glowing gold, and the irresistible pull of Christmas markets. This month, we take you from the city’s
cosy pubs to snow-kissed Scottish Highlands, where reindeer wander through winter’s hush. Next, we slip into the Netherlands, where small towns around Amsterdam turn into twinkling wonderlands.
Closer home, we celebrate the rhythms of Indian heritage, from Jaipur’s evolving culinary scene, where design-forward cafés meet farm-fresh kitchens, to the sea-washed serenity of Tharangambadi, and Odisha’s Mangalajodi, a wetland miracle.
And for the food lover on every journey, actor Janhvi Kapoor takes us through Varanasi’s soul-warming culinary lanes.
Here’s to a year of stories worth savouring, on the ground and in the air.
#IndiabyIndiGo
Cover
Christmas lights sparkle above Regent Street, one of London’s best-known shopping avenues, as people browse and the city’s iconic red buses glide past. In December, the whole city feels wrapped in festive warmth.
From engaging reads to lively events, dive into the exciting highlights of the month.
Actor Janhvi Kapoor shares her top experiences and street-food favourites in Varanasi.
From Ladakh's Chadar Trek to Jammu & Kashmir's Aru Valley, exploring India's winter wonderlands.
page 74
A walk through Tharangambadi's cobblestone lanes, where the enchanting sea whispers its history.
page 80
Indulge
A look at Jaipur's evolving culinary scene — from artisanal brews to design-led dining.
page 90
OutBound
The quaint Christmas charm of small towns in the Netherlands.
According to a new directive issued by DGCA, carrying any satellite phone from abroad into India is strictly prohibited. The possession of any such radio equipment without authorisation is a punishable offence.
The Ministry of Civil Aviation has upgraded the AirSewa portal, which is accessible through an interactive web portal and a mobile app.
The new version includes the following features:
Secure sign-up and log-in with social media
A chatbot for traveller support Improved grievance management, including on social media Real-time flight status and detailed flight schedules For any other Information regarding this service, please visit www.alrsewa.gov.fn
page 102
A peek into Odisha's birdwatching haven, Mangalajodi, from a photographer's lens.
Image: shutterstock
page 112
GlobalViewpoint
How Artificial Intelligence is transforming the future of medicine.
page 143
Touch&Go
Veeba's founder Viraj Bahl shares how he turned his failure into a success story.
As we celebrate the 150th Birth Anniversary Shri Birsa MundaJi, we honour his legacy as a powerful leader and freedom fighter. Let us remember his unwavering spirit, which continues to empower and resonate as a symbol of resilience in our journey towards equality and freedom.
IndiGo
Brand & Content Rashmi Soni
Business Development Shuchi Bhatia
Advertising.Query@goindigo.in
PUBLISHER
Maxposure Limited
CEO and Managing Director Prakash Johari
Head Office | Maxposure Limited
#TheAddress, Plot No. 62, Okhla Industrial Area, Phase III, New Delhi-110020, India
With the Indian Government's Fast Track Immigration – Trusted Traveller Programme (FTI-TTP), the immigration process has become seamless for eligible NRIs and Foreign Nationals holding OCI cards. Instead of waiting in long queues, the initiative uses biometrics, allowing eligible persons to access self-service e-gates. The programme is currently operational at 13 airports across India including Lucknow, Thiruvananthapuram, Trichy, Kozhikode, Amritsar, Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, Chennai, Ahmedabad, Hyderabad, Cochin and Kolkata.
Bengaluru | One Co.work, Level 2, Sony World Junction, 80 Feet Road, Kormangala, Bengaluru - 560095; Phone: +91 9036118899
Indonesia | Peter Jeffery | Asian Integrated Media Ltd. Tel: +852 39106388, E-mail: peterjeffery@asianmedia.com
Hong Kong | Hemant Sonney | Publisher's Internationale Tel: +852 2976 7503, E-mail: hemant.sonney@pubintl.com.hk
Singapore | Peggy Thay | Publisher's Internationale Tel: +65 83768345, E-mail: singapore@pubintl.sg
USA | Ralph Lockwood | Huson Media Tel: +408 879 6666, E-mail: Ralph.lockwood@husonmedia.com
Australia | Charlton D’Silva | Publisher’s Internationale Tel: +612 92523476, E-mail: charlton.dsilva@pubintl.com.au
The ‘HELLO 6E’ magazine is published by Maxposure Limited (“Publisher”) for exclusive circulation on commercial flights operated by InterGlobe Aviation Limited (“IndiGo”). All articles, advertisement, content, images and photographs published herein are created by the Publisher and/or contributor at their own discretion and do not necessarily represent the views of IndiGo. All rights, title and interest (including intellectual property rights) in and to the materials shall vest either with the Publisher or any contributor (including IndiGo, in certain cases) of such materials. The Publisher is solely liable for any claims for breach of intellectual property rights by any third party in relation to materials appearing in the HELLO 6E magazine (except such materials and content which have been created by IndiGo, in which case IndiGo or its service providers shall be liable for such claims). IndiGo shall bear no liability for any article, content, advertisement, advertorial, image or photograph appearing in any issue of this magazine including any content which is communal, indecent, gender discriminatory, caste-creed discriminatory, racist, defamatory or libelous to any person, organisation, etc., except in case of content which has been created by IndiGo. All materials are strictly copyrighted and all rights reserved. No part of the publication may be reproduced in whole or part without prior written permission of the copyright holder, Publisher and IndiGo. All articles marked as ‘Talking Point’ and 'Destination Diary' in the magazine are advertorials. customer.experience@goIndigo.in
Website: maxposuremedia.com
LONDON with Kerry Walker
Based near London, Walker is an award-winning travel writer and the author of numerous Lonely Planet guides, including Great Britain and Europe. Kerry contributes regularly to publications including The Times, The Telegraph, and National Geographic Traveller.
ONBOARD
THE NETHERLANDS with Ivana Perkovic
Hailing from Amsterdam, Perkovic is a recognised Dutch travel expert and freelance writer with a social media following of 173K, where she shares her travel experiences, tips, and fresh perspectives on the world and India, her current home.
-page 90
ODISHA with Nitin S. Jain
Jain is an award-winning wildlife photographer with more than 15 years of field experience documenting the vibrant and unpredictable world of Indian wildlife. He is known for his ability to capture high-impact action, especially birds in motion.
HIMALAYAS with Sayoni Bhaduri
Bhaduri is a seasoned lifestyle journalist with a taste for the finer things. She writes for some of India’s leading lifestyle publications.
Indulge-page 80
JAIPUR with Neha Kirpal
Kirpal is a travel and culture writer based in New Delhi. She loves writing on a number of subjects, ranging from art and music to books and theatre, for several newspapers and magazines.
Skyline-page 74
THARANGAMBADI with Shruti Tomar
Tomar writes leisurely on lifestyle, relishes fashion and accessories, and wanders everywhere with vivid imagination. Passionate about food, fashion, and the frivolous, she often hibernates, waiting for moments of inspiration.
Corporate Social Responsibility
This year, walks were successfully conducted in Kozhikode, Lucknow, Chhatrapati Sambhaji Nagar,
These walks saw active participation from local communities, government officials, and senior leadership of IndiGo and InterGlobe Foundation, reinforcing a shared sense of ownership of heritage.
My City, My Heritage walks are a collaborative effort between IndiGoReach and InterGlobe Foundation to encourage conversations that engage citizens to connect, rediscover, and take pride in the stories shaping their communities through heritage walks.
Reasons Why 6
1
Sandstone Marvels
Explore Jaisalmer's bustling streets with its myriad architectural marvels built with sandstone, mostly yellow in colour. The famous Jaisalmer Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Nathmal Ji Ki Haveli, and Patwon ki Haveli are a few examples.
2
Crafts Bazaar
For souvenirs, make Sadar Bazaar your first stop. From beautifully made leather bags to traditional paintings, take home pieces of splendid craftsmanship. Bhatia Bazaar and Manak Chowk are also great spots for jewellery and textile shopping.
Desert Adventure
3 T he ‘Golden City’ of Jaisalmer intrigues with its massive fort, Sonar Quila and the dramatic Thar desert landscape. Known for its havelis and bustling bazaars, it exudes an old-world charm.
One of the top attractions near Jaisalmer, Sam Sand Dunes in the Thar Desert, makes for a majestic sight, especially around sunset when it is bathed in hues of gold. You can enjoy a camel safari or camp overnight for a memorable experience.
4
Local Flavours
Don’t miss out on the sumptuous Rajasthani thali when in Jaisalmer. The city is dotted with cosy rooftop restaurants where you can taste authentic flavours - gatte ki sabzi, dal baati churma, ker sangri, and more.
5
Land of Havelis
The city is replete with stunning mansions built by wealthy merchants. These grand homes are known for intricate carvings, ornamental arches, and beautiful jharokhas (projected balconies).
6
Folk Culture
From the traditional ghoomar and kalbeliya dances to the famous Kathputli puppet show, performances by local artistes never fail to capture the eye. December and January are the most popular months for tourism, while February generally hosts the spectacular Jaisalmer Desert Festival.
Image: alamy
around the world
Discover the latest in travel, lifestyle, festivals, and tech!
an inspiring world of creativity awaits you at one of the largest contemporary art events in Asia, the Kochi-Muziris Biennale. Returning for its sixth edition, the event brings artists from around the world to showcase their talents across various disciplines. The exhibition runs from December 12, 2025, to March 31, 2026, across multiple venues in Kochi, Kerala. Experiences you shouldn't miss include the performance by Maria Hassabi at Pepper House and the installation by Vinoja Tharmalingam at Island Warehouse, Willingdon Island.
Image is for visual representation only
Image: Kochi Biennale Foundation
every year in December, Rajasthan hosts one of the most spectacular cultural celebrations against the majestic backdrop of the UNESCO-listed Kumbhalgarh Fort. Transforming the Aravalli Hills into a glowing stage of dance, music, and heritage, the Kumbhalgarh Festival (December 1-3) showcases a lineup of vibrant events and royal Rajasthani flair.
get ready for an epic cinematic experience with director James Cameron’s third edition of the beloved Avatar series. The sci-fi action film Avatar: Fire and Ash, featuring Zoe Saldaña and Sam Worthington, takes viewers back to the fictional world of Pandora, introducing new conflicts and darker themes. The film is scheduled to release on December 19.
if dressing up as an iconic fictional character is your thing, you shouldn't miss this popular cosplay event in December. Comic Con India comes to New Delhi (December 5-7) and Bengaluru (December 20-21), bringing a variety of pop-culture experiences. Whether you're into anime, comics, or gaming, this is where your fandom comes alive.
Images are for visual representation only
journey to the Kutch region in Gujarat during the annual Rann Utsav. Featuring a host of cultural celebrations at the tent city in Dhordo, the event this time has expanded its focus beyond the Rann of Kutch to celebrate the heritage of UNESCO-inscribed Dholavira, an ancient seat of the Harappan Civilisation. The festival runs until March 4, 2026.
keeping environmental change at the forefront of global conversation, cinema is proving to be a powerful catalyst. Celebrating the best of environmental cinema, The All Living Things Environmental Film Festival returns with its 6th edition this year. Featuring 86 films from 39 countries, the festival sparks conversation around sustainability through storytelling. The festival runs from December 4 to 14 in various cities across the globe.
magnificent artworks explore the intersecting themes of vulnerability and strength in an exhibition by Ayesha Sultana at the Jaipur Centre of Art in the Pink City. Titled 'Fragility & Resilience', the exhibition showcases a variety of public art and paintings for connoisseurs. It is on display until January 5, 2026.
Images are for visual representation only
THE MORAL EVOLUTION
AWAKENING THE POSTCONVENTIONAL MINDSET
In an age where success is often measured by approval and conformity, the need for independent moral reasoning has never been greater. In this insightful conversation, the visionary founder of the SSVM group of Institutions, Dr. Manimekalai Mohan, explores how true education transcends conformity — guiding individuals to act not for approval or gain, but for conscience, compassion, and what is right.
What does postconventional mindset mean in today’s world?
In today’s fast-paced world that often celebrates popularity over principle, I believe that the postconventional mind stands for courage — to choose what’s right, even when it’s not applauded. It’s the shift
from asking “What’s in it for me?” to “What difference can I make?”
How can schools help students move from “others approve of it” to “it’s the right thing to do”?
Schools must shift from merely teaching information to awakening reflection. Every lesson, club, or activity should connect to the question: “Why does this matter?” When students reflect on impact rather than just outcomes, they learn responsibility.
What role do teachers play in this journey toward moral maturity?
Teachers are the moral architects of society. A teacher who says, “It’s okay to disagree, but let’s understand why”, creates thinkers, not followers. When teachers model empathy, humility, and
Dr. Manimekalai Mohan Founder, SSVM Group of Institutions, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu
courage to question, students naturally evolve from seeking approval to seeking truth.
How can parents nurture post-conventional thinking at home?
Parenting today must go beyond performance — it must model principle. Instead of asking, “Did you win?”, ask, “Did you do your best with honesty?” Children mirror what they see. When they watch parents stand up for fairness, they learn moral courage.
How does this stage of thinking influence entrepreneurship and leadership?
Post-conventional leaders don’t just build companies — they build conscience. When entrepreneurs operate with moral clarity, they inspire trust that no marketing can buy.
opt for a multisensory experience this December as the Qatar Museums Gallery – Katara in Doha presents 'The Rooted Nomad: M.F. Husain', an immersive exhibition conceptualised by Kiran Nadar Museum of Art (KNMA), New Delhi. The presentation celebrates the artistic journey of the legendary modern artist. The exhibition runs until February 7, 2026.
plunge into awe-inspiring creations as one of Delhi’s oldest art galleries brings a beautiful exhibition this December.
Dhoomimal Gallery presents ‘The Art of Ski(e)n: Re-membering through Performance and Thread’ by artists Abhijna Vemuru Kasa and Insha Manzoor. The exhibition is taking place from December 5, 2025 to January 5, 2026.
roaming through London in December lets you revel in festive feasts and glittering Christmas markets that define the holiday spirit. The UK capital turns into a wonderland during this time, making the season of joy extra special. Nestled in the city is the Peninsula London, where you can enjoy a lavish Christmas feast and ring in the New Year with exclusive private events.
setting up a historic experience, global icon Lionel Messi comes to India for the 'G.O.A.T India Tour 2025', with events scheduled in Kolkata (December 13), Mumbai (December 14) and Delhi (December 15). The event presents a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for fans to meet and interact with the legendary Argentine footballer.
tantalising flavours on the plate and a breathtaking view of the desert are a combination many look for while planning a vacation. If that's what your dream holiday looks like, then you can head to Rait, a modern Indian pop-up at Bab Al Shams, a stunning desert resort just outside Dubai. Here, you can enjoy bold Indian flavours until April 30, 2026.
*UPI is accepted in the UAE, Nepal, Sri Lanka, Singapore, Bhutan, Qatar, Mauritius, and France (Galeries Lafayette, Haussmann, Paris & the o cial website of Ei el Tower).
unwrap Delhi’s winter magic with vibrant new flavours, from oven-roasted salmon and silken tofu to crispy baked chicken at the Imperial’s Spice Route, an iconic address for Asian flavours. Finish the seasonal indulgence with sticky banana cake and coconut panacotta.
witness a celebration where travellers and communities come together for their shared love for the mountains. Royal Enfield’s Journeying Across The Himalayas, a multidisciplinary festival, celebrates stories of and from the Himalayas through exhibitions and performing arts — music, dance, theatre, culinary journeys, conversations, and more. The event takes place from December 4 to 10 at Travancore Palace, New Delhi.
vagator, Goa, witnesses the roar of engines as biking enthusiasts from around the world gather together to ride, connect, and share riveting stories at the India Bike Week. The popular event returns for its 12th edition this December on 19 and 20, offering a platform for the global motorcycling community to celebrate biking culture in India.
Original GI 232 Certified Patan Patola Sarees, Dupattas, Lehangas, Single Ikat Patola, Semi Patan Patola, Accessories, Menswear, Bandhani & Kalamkari.
zest for the party season begins with elegant sophistication, and this curated edit sets the tone. Think sharp tailoring, luminous accents, timeless evening classics, and a bold touch of modern craftsmanship, each hinting at pieces that ensure you enter every celebration with unmistakable style.
1. Wear brilliance with either a sharply structured black blazer traced with silver ombré detailing or a bold two-panel black crop jacket by Ananya Goenka Bagaria.
2. Wrap your wrist in feminine elegance with a classic yellow-gold bracelet from Tiffany & Co.
3. Gentlemen, make an entrance with timeless elegance in Zenith’s DEFY Extreme Lapis Lazuli.
4. Make a confident, expressive statement in a striking purple velvet tuxedo by Jorahmen.
Dark Chocolates
LIVE THE DICKENS’ DREAM
F rom London’s festive sparkle and Dickensian streets ringing with carols to honey-stone villages fit for a period drama and reindeer rambles in the snow-frosted Scottish Highlands, the British winter is pure magic.
Words Kerry Walker
The weather can be fickle, but London truly turns on the charm in winter. Christmas is light fantastic in the British capital, with a giant Norwegian spruce twinkling at Trafalgar Square, stars and angels glittering above Oxford and Regent Streets, and around 300,000 lights illuminating Covent Garden, where street performers entertain shoppers.
Wrap up, lace your skates, and twirl across the ice rink at the neoclassical Somerset House on the Strand, rounding out with raclette and mulled wine at the alpine-inspired the Chalet. A short walk away, Ye Olde Cheshire Cheese on Fleet Street, one of London’s few remaining 17th-century chophouses, was a favourite of Charles Dickens and has hosted literary legends like Mark Twain and W.B. Yeats. Pull up a church pew in the sawdust-floored pub for freshly tapped beer and hearty fare like kidney pudding.
For something grander, go for afternoon tea with a festive twist. At Shangri-La The Shard, starting on the 34th floor, dainty finger sandwiches, scones with clotted cream, and fine teas are served with stunning views.
Music brings the true festive spirit, from Christmas concerts and gospel choirs at the domed Royal Albert Hall to Carols by Candlelight at St. Martin-in-the-Fields, the parish church of the British Royal Family. Stay for the New Year to watch the midnight fireworks over the River Thames.
Image: shutterstock
Country dreams
Whether it’s the film-set-ready villages of the Cotswolds or the misty Yorkshire moors, Britain’s villages ramp up the winter romance.
Lavenham in Suffolk brims with medieval character and was featured in Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part 1. The wealthy Tudor wool town is stacked with over 300 listed, timberframed buildings in pretty pastels and crowned by a magnificent late-Gothic church. The market square enchants with lit trees on Christmas.
Few villages are as gasp-out-loud lovely as Castle Combe, on the banks of the Bybrook River in the honey-stone heart of the Cotswolds. Winter brings silvery skies, muddy-booted woodland walks, and a village little changed since the 1600s. The Manor House offers opulence with its Michelin-starred Bybrook restaurant. For the dream country pub, huddle at the 12th-century Castle Inn over a local beer by the fire or a night in a four-poster bed.
Equally appealing in winter is Castleton, a stone-built Derbyshire village close to the dramatic Mam Tor, the “Shivering Mountain,” in the wild Peak District. The village goes all out at Christmas, with trees aglow, carols in the caverns, and the promise of snow.
Where to stay
Stay at the Swan at Lavenham, dating to the 15th-century, for fire-warmed nooks, beamed rooms full of period flair, and festive dinners in the banquet-ready Gallery Restaurant.
Images: shutterstock
Un-Route
Rochester: Dickens' Christmas
Not only does London get into the festive groove at Christmas and New Year, towns and cities all over the country transform into storybook settings. Charles Dickens had strong childhood connections to Rochester in Kent, and today it wings visitors back to Victorian times with carol singers, bell ringers, lamplit parades, and characters from A Christmas Carol at its early-December Dickens Festival.
Winchester: Cathedral Charm
The former seat of Saxon king Alfred the Great, Winchester is a fetching little city in Hampshire. The showstopper is its soul-stirring Gothic cathedral, with a churchyard where one of England’s best-loved authors, Jane Austen, is buried. At Christmas, the city captivates with a 100-stall festive market for mulled wine and crafts, a lantern parade, and carol concerts.
Edinburgh: Hogmanay Spectacle
In Scotland, castle-crowned, alley-woven Edinburgh rings in the New Year with a colossal bang at Hogmanay, with street parties, Viking torchlit parades, drummers, pipers, free-flowing whisky, and fireworks.
Cairngorms: Whisky Trails
Skiing and sledding on Cairngorm Mountain within the National Park in the Scottish Highlands, along with hill trips to see free-roaming reindeer in nearby Glenmore, give travellers a wintry feel. If you’ve come this far, add a visit to Dalwhinnie for a dram of single malt and a fascinating tour of one of Scotland’s highest and coldest whisky distilleries.
Bath: Torchlight & Warmth
The elegant, soft-stone city of Bath in Somerset is another winter beauty, home to Britain’s best-preserved Roman baths. At Christmastime, the Great Bath is illuminated by torchlight, and there’s a pop-up bar for warming up over hot chocolate and mulled wine.
Image: Dutch Ice Sculpture Festival
I ndiGo to AMSTERDAM
The destination is connected from Mumbai & there are convenient connections to select cities across network. www.goIndiGo.in
FROSTY WONDERLAND
Imagine stepping into a place where the magic of winter and the festive spirit of Christmas come to life through stunning crystalline installations. The Netherlands IJsbeelden Festival (Dutch Ice Sculptures Festival) brings together artists from around the world to showcase their talent through impressive ice sculptures and delicate snow art. The event takes place from December 13, 2025, to the first week of March 2026 at Flevo Nice in Biddinghuizen, just an hour from Amsterdam.
MIND
PAGE TURNER
TEA CUPS AND TURNING POINTS
by Naina More
This collection of short stories by More offers a gentle gaze into life, relationships, and everything in between. Each story is a thoughtful reflection on unspoken truths, rebellious zeal, and the courageous spirit that defines human experience. The book offers small, contemplative glimpses into turning points that many will find relatable.
M.S. SWAMINATHAN: THE MAN WHO FED INDIA
by Priyambada Jayakumar
This biography by Jayakumar captures the life of Indian geneticist Monkombu Sambasivan Swaminathan. The book traces his journey, from an early introduction to agriculture to his eventual association with Nobel laureate Norman Borlaug, which led to India's Green Revolution.
MINI’S DIARY AND OTHER STORIES
by Beena Sugathan
This evocative read by Sugathan captures life’s small yet meaningful moments — from childhood innocence to the quiet struggles of adulthood. The collection of 17 stories invites you to pause, reflect, and rediscover the extraordinary in ordinary, day-to-day life.
SLASHED BEAUTIES
by A. Rushby
This gothic feminist horror follows three Anatomical Venuses - ultrarealistic wax figures of women that come to life at night to avenge those who have wronged them. The book explores the themes of misogyny and witchcraft.
MEANDER
I ndiGo to RIYADH The destination is connected from Bengaluru, Mumbai, Delhi, and Hyderabad * www.goIndiGo.in
SEASON OF CELEBRATION
Every year between October and March, Riyadh transforms into a vibrant hub of cultural celebrations. Attracting tourists and locals alike, the Saudi Arabian capital is set to host the iconic Riyadh Season, featuring a series of entertainment, cultural, and sporting events across the city.
Image: shutterstock
ART FIESTA
Bengaluru attracts art enthusiasts to a celebration of its culture, food, arts, and music at the BLR Hubba Festival. With a lineup of 250+ events across 12 genres, the event is being held from January 16 - 25, 2026, across historic venues such as Freedom Park, NGMA, Sabha, and more. Kantha Hubba’s global music and Nataka Hubba’s theatre, among others, are events you shouldn’t miss.
The Power of Curiosity: A Creative Life Lived Fully
N. Arul Ramesh,
IChairman, The Camford International School, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu
n an age where “Follow your passionˮ has become the mantra of success, we often overlook a more enduring
companion—curiosity. Passion flares like lightning, intense yet momentary. Curiosity, however, is the quiet spark that never fades. It nudges us gently and asks, What lies beyond?
Across my journey, the common thread among truly accomplished individuals has been their insatiable curiosity. It fuels innovation, drives inquiry and transforms ideas into impact. Passion may set the direction, but curiosity sustains the voyage.
A creatively lived life is one where we choose curiosity over fear—consistently and consciously. It is reflected in the child dismantling a toy to see how it works, in the teacher reimagining a classroom experience and in the leader who dares to ask, Could there be a better way?.
At The Camford International School, we cultivate this mindset. Learning begins with questions, not conclusions. Our environment encourages exploration, empathy and invention—transforming curiosity into creativity.
Our learners are prepared for a future shaped by artificial intelligence and innovation, guided to think beyond textbooks and redefine possibilities. To every young mind—let curiosity be your compass. It will illuminate paths that passion alone may never reveal.
The Excellence Award for Best School in India was presented by Lord Brennan KC, Member of the House of Lords, the Global Leaders Summit & Awards 2025 at the UK Parliament, London.
HEAR IT YOUR WAY
AN UNMISSABLE COLLECTION OF THE LATEST AUDIO INNOVATIONS TO UNLEASH SOUND ON THE GO, FROM HEADPHONES TO EARBUDS.
MINI EXCELLENCE
The Google Pixel Buds 2a features active noise cancellation with hands-free Gemini assistance. It is best for workouts or commutes with the twist-to-adjust stabiliser.
AUDIO CONTROL IN YOUR POCKET
Elevate your wireless sound experience with the premium JBL Tour One M3 Smart Tx headphones that come with a specially designed audio transmitter.
3X SOUND BRILLIANCE
Words Akriti Rana and Nimish Dubey
AirPods Pro 3, the latest iteration of the legendary AirPods feaures an upgraded acoustic seal.
A JOURNEY THROUGH FAITH AND FLAVOUR
I n Varanasi’s food and rituals, actor Janhvi Kapoor discovers a city that mirrors her love for simplicity, stillness, and soulful flavours.
Words Aarti Kapur Singh
Film actor Janhvi Kapoor has danced her way into the hearts of a new generation, all shimmer and screen-bright charm. Yet at her core is someone who finds comfort in the simplest pleasures, especially food that feels like home. Even before a glamorous global event, her first meal isn’t elaborate or international. It’s comfort on a plate: chana dal (lentil), rice, green chilli pickle, and matar bhaji (green peas
curry). “This is what anchors me,” she laughs. This love for simple, traditional food is also why Varanasi holds such a deep place in her heart. The city’s flavours, honest, unhurried, and steeped in memory, mirror the calm she seeks.
“I made a trip to Varanasi on my birthday with my father and sister, and we reached the city in the evening, post-work. The trip was the best birthday gift I could have wanted,” says Kapoor.
GOAN SOUL WITH THE MODERNITY OF MINIMALISM
A collective of 4-bed residences and 7-bed penthouses, every home at Raet enjoys panoramic views of the Bambolim Bay.
Located at the top of a crescent-shaped hillside, the buildings look the horizon in the eye with traditional Goan homes stacked along the slopes below.
4 BED AND PENTHOUSE RESIDENCES WITH LARGE WRAPAROUND BALCONIES AND PRIVATE POOLS*
*PRIVATE POOL ONLY IN PENTHOUSES
NATURAL CHARM, MODERN COMFORTS
With its golden beaches and swaying palms, Goa excudes a charm that is both captivating and serene. It is that Goan paradise that underscores the design of 101 Residences; spacious 2 & 3 bedroom homes, highlighted with iconic Goan style. It is a home you never want to leave behind, complete with a lifestyle you’ve grown accustomed to.
Site Address: ‘Aldeia de Goa’ Next to Goa University, P.O. Goa University, Bambolim, Goa 403206.
I could have left Varanasi without trying the kachoris or lassi, but not the paan. I had it almost every couple of hours, and each one tasted different from the other. I also learnt about paan varieties from the locals; for example, maghai is a special variety that is rolled with nuts, rose petals, and gulkand. One experience that stayed with me was when a kid offered me paan at a ghat; it literally melted in my mouth," the actor recalls.
The Feel
For Kapoor, the trip to Varanasi wasn’t about a spectacle. It was a return to rhythm, from the call of temple bells and the hum of prayer to the swirl of incense. “It was really poetic,” she says. “But beyond that, there is something much deeper that I felt in Varanasi. It was very humbling to see life and death coexist so seamlessly,” she adds.
Her Itinerary
“We started with the evening Ganga aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat, followed by a boat ride,” says Kapoor. “As the time of the aarti neared, the air filled with chants, bells, and conch tunes. Just the simple ritual of deep daan making a wish and floating a diya in the river and seeing it bobbing away into the darkness felt so comforting,” she adds.
Lassi Dose
“I tried a lassi loaded with dry fruits at a shop in Godowlia, near the Kashi Vishwanath Temple. It looked so heavy that I thought I wouldn't be able to finish one glass, but I ended up having two, and slept like a log thereafter,” she says.
Kachori World
“I was fascinated by the kachoris in the shops we passed near the Kashi Vishwanath Temple, but had no time to stop. I thought I had missed my chance, but later it was like they had found me!" says Kapoor. "The next morning, after enjoying Subah-e-Banaras (a dawn ceremony of yoga and music) at Assi Ghat, we saw a street vendor frying fresh kachoris and couldn’t resist stopping for a treat,” she adds.
made Rurban Living real
SHOT AT ORGANO ANTHARAM
FREEZE
FRAME
I ndia’s coolest adventures lie off-map: frozen treks, misty monasteries, and wild valleys draped in untouched snow.
Words Sayoni Bhaduri
Image: alamy
I ndiGo to LEH www.goIndiGo.in
Frozen River Treks, Ladakh
For seasoned adventurers, the Chadar Trek is the Holy Grail: a surreal walk on the frozen Zanskar River, where the crunch of ice underfoot and the echo of the canyon walls test both courage and calm. But for those who crave a similar challenge without the crowd, Ladakh offers many more not-so-known trails
The Sumda Chey Winter Trek is one such secret. Few know of this route that threads through snow-blanketed hamlets, frozen rivulets, and ancient ruins. Along the way, you find the Sumda Chun monastery and a frozen waterfall. Nights are spent under clear constellations; mornings begin with frozen prayer wheels and steaming butter tea. Some stretches of the path may overlap with that of the Chadar route.
While You’re Here
Try a snow leopard safari in Ulley Valley.
When & How Best time
Mid-January to early March
Ideal for Only experienced trekkers with high fitness levels should attempt these winter treks.
Access Fly into Leh, acclimatise for a couple of days, then trek with a certified local guide.
Tip Carry microspikes and keep hot water bottles handy!
I ndiGo to DEHRADUN
www.goIndiGo.in
Snow Trails, Uttarakhand
Known as the “Mini Switzerland” of Uttarakhand, Chopta sits cradled in the Garhwal Himalayas, where every trail leads to silence broken only by crunching snow and the call of a Himalayan monal.
Most trekkers head here for the Chopta–Chandrashila Trek, a short but spectacular climb that rewards you with 360-degree views of Nanda Devi, Trishul, and Chaukhamba peaks. In winter, the temple of Tungnath, one of the highest Lord Shiva shrines in the world, lies half-buried in snow. But beyond this well-loved route lies a newer thrill, the Khait Parvat Trek. Still under the radar, Khait Parvat is a pristine, pine-scented wonderland. From the summit, you get sweeping views of Mandakini Valley and the distant Kedarnath peaks.
While you are here
Visit Deoriatal, a serene alpine lake. Stop by Ukhimath, the winter seat of Lord Kedarnath. Try pipinghot aloo ke gutke and mandua roti at a local dhaba.
Reach
The nearest airport is in Dehradun. Take a bus or cab via Rudraprayag to Chopta (approx. seven hours).
Best Time Late December to mid-February.
Tip
Carry microspikes or gaiters; snow can get knee-deep beyond Tungnath. Don’t miss a sunrise from Chandrashila.
Image: shutterstock
Valley Hikes, Jammu & Kashmir
When winter wraps Kashmir in silence, Aru Valley in Anantnag district turns into a snow globe. Wooden homes puff out wisps of smoke, children race on handmade sledges, and the Lidder River hums softly under sheets of ice.
In winter, the trails toward the Tarsar and Marsar lakes vanish under deep snow, turning this high-altitude region into a terrain only seasoned trekkers dare to approach. Many also set their sights on the Kolahoi Glacier, a demanding route where deep snow, sharp winds, and towering ice walls test endurance and awe in equal measure.
But beyond these famed trails lies an offbeat gem, Lidderwat Meadow, an expanse of white wilderness that feels untouched by time. In winter, it’s reached by a moderate hike from Aru, past frozen brooks and half-buried wooden bridges.
While you are here
On your return to Srinagar, join an INTACH Heritage Walk through narrow alleys and visit the spellbinding Khanqah-e-Molla or Shah-e-Hamdan, the shrine of Sufi saint Mir Syed Ali Hamadani.
How to Reach
Fly into Srinagar airport (approx. 100 km from Aru Valley). From Srinagar, a three-hour (approx.) drive via Pahalgam takes you to Aru.
When to Go
December to March for snow-cloaked landscapes and winter treks.
Tip Carry cash, as ATMs are sparse in Aru.
Images: shutterstock
Mechuka Magic, Arunachal Pradesh
Tucked deep in Arunachal Pradesh’s Shi-Yomi district, Mechuka is the Northeast’s most enchanting winter secret, a high-altitude valley where snow falls softly over wooden houses, prayer flags, and mist-wrapped monasteries.
You can trek to the 400-year-old Samten Yongcha Monastery, visit the hanging bridges, or simply sip butter tea beside a crackling hearth in a local homestay.
The road to Mechuka is an adventure itself, winding through pine forests, frozen waterfalls, and quiet tribal villages.
With inputs from Simran Rana
Image:
W here sea-worn history lingers in every breeze, Tharangambadi near Puducherry unfolds as a quiet confluence of Danish legacy, coastal beauty, and timeless rhythm, dawdling on cobbled lanes as time drifts with the bay breeze.
Words Shruti Tomar
Image: shutterstock
Along the windswept Coromandel coast, drive from Chennai to Puducherry and follow the call of the Bay of Bengal to a little-known gem: Tharangambadi, formerly Tranquebar, “the land of singing waves.” This quiet Tamil Nadu town sits by the sea, where the past dawdles along cobbled lanes and trails the salt-streaked zephyr.
A mere 130 km from Puducherry, Tharangambadi is unlike any coastal escape you’ve known. This is where Danish, British, and Indian histories mingle in quiet harmony, where old seafront facades watch over a windswept shore, and where time seems to move to the unhurried rhythm of the sea. Once a bustling Danish trading settlement, the town still bears its European charm, with restored bungalows and sturdy churches.
History Stands
The Danish legacy is most profound at Fort Dansborg, the iconic ochre fortress standing sentinel over Tharangambadi Beach. Built in 1620, it remains the world’s second-largest Danish fort after Kronborg Castle in Denmark and now houses a small museum displaying Danish artefacts and relics from Tharangambadi’s maritime peak. The adjacent town gate, adorned with the Danish royal emblem, greets visitors at the entrance and marks the start of the town’s colonial core.
Sand and Stories
Just a few steps from the fort is the shimmering white Zion Church, built in 1701, one of India's oldest Protestant churches. Alongside is the New Jerusalem Church from 1718. The Old Danish Cemetery, with its tombstones, whispers tales of those who lived and died on these shores.
Small treasures
Explore the revered Masilamani Nathar Temple and enjoy pristine sunsets from the serene beach.
Best time to visit Tharangambadi is best explored between December and March when the sea breeze is cool and the skies are clear.
Image: alamy
Don’t miss the Ziegenbalg House, one of India's first printing presses and now a museum dedicated to missionary Bartholomäus Ziegenbalg’s legacy. It was here that the first Tamil printing press produced scriptures and texts, including the first Tamil Bible.
Wander off the well-trodden path and Tharangambadi reveals quiet courtyards that evoke Danish-era life, while the restored Bungalow on the Beach offers period dining with breezy sea views.
Christmas Spirit
Come December, Tharangambadi radiates warmly in the Christmas spirit. There are no blinking fairy lights or packed hotel lobbies here. Instead, the charm unfolds in candle-lit courtyards, the hush of Christmas Eve service at the Zion Church, and dinners with freshly grilled seafood under the stars
How to reach
The closest airport is Puducherry. It’s a 2.5-hour drive to Tharangambadi.
at heritage stays. At the church, the Christmas Eve service is humble yet stirring: Tamil hymns accompanied by the soft harmonium, the pastor narrating the Nativity in a mix of Tamil and English, and children dressed as shepherds whispering their rehearsed lines.
I ndiGo to PUDUCHERRY www.goIndiGo.in
Even if you are not there for the festivities, stroll down King Street, the historic spine of the town, where heritage buildings and weather-beaten Dutch architecture catch the soft winter sun. Inside Fort Dansborg, small gatherings unfold with traditional music, folk dance rehearsals, and community dinners featuring fish curry, the spicy kuzhi paniyaram, Danish-inspired cookies, and hot tea brewed strong enough to warm the sea wind.
Tharangambadi leaves you with a sense of unhurried discovery — its layered histories, quiet rituals, and gentle coastal charm linger long after you’ve left its shores.
Image: shutterstock
A New Taste of Jaipur
R ajasthan's capital is stirring up a delicious new identity, where artisanal brews, design-led dining, nostalgic desserts and farm -fres h kitchens are transforming the P ink City into one of India’s most exciting culinary hubs.
Words Neha Kirpal
There’s a moment in Jaipur, just before the sun sets and the city turns rose-gold, when you realise something has changed. The old Jaipur, with its royal kitchens and timeless kachoris, is still here. But layered over it is a bold, experimental, hyper-aesthetic food culture rewriting the city’s identity. Artisanal roasters hum next to 19th-century palaces. Patisseries reinterpret childhood sweets with French finesse. Farm-to-table kitchens serve produce plucked hours before plating. And design-forward restaurants turn dining into a sensory art form. Jaipur is still the Pink City, but now, it tastes different. Better. Braver.
Coffee is Culture
The city’s culinary renaissance begins with its caffeine. Jaipur’s artisanal coffee scene has reached a point where cafés aren’t just hangout spots, they’re cultural hubs shaping the city’s contemporary identity. At Half Light Coffee Roasters, brothers Sameer and Yatin Godara work like craftsmen, serving shots you can hear in the quiet hum of conversation and laptops. Roastery Coffee House has become Jaipur’s unofficial co-working studio for creatives, where the dark roast is as consistent as the stream of new ideas.
DINING IN JAIPUR IS NO LONGER JUST ABOUT EATING; IT’S ABOUT ENTERING AN ATMOSPHERE.
At Coffee Sutra, Dushyant Singh’s ambitious specialty brand combines global-grade beans with Jaipur’s design sensibility. With its rare, curated single-origin brews and immersive workshops, it positions coffee as both ritual and education. In a city once ruled by chai, coffee is now its most expressive beverage.
Celebrating years
Jharkhand, now 25-years-old salutes the nation’s hero
Birsa Munda on his 150th anniversary.
Towards the Endless Opportunities
Too Good to Look
Dining in Jaipur is no longer just about eating; it’s about entering an atmosphere. Nowhere is this clearer than at Jay’s Mirove Artisanal Kitchen, a contemporary Indian restaurant that feels like a love letter to the city’s evolving aesthetic. Spread across 8,000 sq. ft., it blends artisanal textures with modern arches, and local art with soft winter sunlight. The architecture merges brutalist forms with Rajasthani craftsmanship, every corner intentional and every detail expressive.
Its menu follows the same philosophy. Expect dishes that are familiar yet thrillingly reimagined: a Khoba Quesadillas Chicken that marries Rajasthani textures with Mexican comfort, or a Dry Butter Chicken Vada Pav — a mischievous nod to Punjab and Maharashtra.
Elsewhere, Bar Palladio continues to be the city’s visual showstopper. Its electric blue interiors remain iconic, cocktails polished, and the energy impossibly glamorous. At Amer Fort, 1135 AD elevates dining with the
Image: Stefano Miserini
heritage of centuries, offering royal recipes in a setting where sandstone, shadows, and history whisper through the meal.
Fresh and Green
Amid the sophistication and spectacle, Jaipur’s heart beats strongest in its embrace of fresh and local produce. A movement that began quietly has now become a lifestyle statement. Restaurants like Hibiscus Court, Zolocrust, and Café White Sage have championed menus driven by seasonality and sustainability, proof that modern Jaipur wants to know not just what it’s eating, but where it comes from.
Drive just outside the city, and the philosophy turns immersive. At Aranyavas Nature Retreat, meals begin in the garden, quite literally. Vegetables, herbs, and greens are picked hours before reaching the kitchen at their perfect moment. Farm-to-table here is not a marketing slogan; it’s a way of reconnecting with the land that once shaped Rajasthan’s culinary identity.
Dessert Revolution
If Jaipur’s savoury scene is bold, its dessert renaissance is deeply emotional. At the centre of it stands Dzurt's new Horizon Tower outlet that has made nostalgia fashionable again. Chef Tejasvi Chandela’s creations, like ghewar tarts and kulfi-gelato hybrids, don’t just taste exquisite; they evoke memories. The outlet,
I ndiGo to JAIPUR www.goIndiGo.in
with its pistachio-toned interiors, elevates dessert to an indulgent experience that blends storytelling, technique, and Jaipur’s innate love for sweetness. This nostalgia-led movement is shaping a new generation of Jaipurites who crave design, craft, and emotion in every bite.
For anyone who loves food, culture, or beautiful spaces, there has never been a better time to taste Jaipur.
Image: shutterstock
A Dutch Kind
of Magic
S tep past Amsterdam into Haarlem, Maastricht, and tiny Dutch hamlets where cobblestone streets glow, pastries steam in frosty air, and festive cheer seeps gently into every wintry corner.
Words Ivana Perkovic
I ndiGo to AMSTERDAM The destination is connected from Mumbai & there are convenient connections to select cities across network. www.goIndiGo.in
There’s something quietly enchanting about Christmas in the Netherlands. It’s not loud or showy — that’s not in line with the famous Dutch saying “doe maar normaal, dan doe je al gek genoeg”, in English, “just be normal, that’s crazy enough”. The holiday season in the Netherlands is a gentle spark in dark winter nights when the sun sets at 5 pm and the mercury dips well below freezing. As December rolls in, even the smallest Dutch towns seem to exhale a kind of contentment. Candles flicker behind windows, bicycles glide past twinkling canals, and the air smells faintly of powdered sugar and nostalgia.
While Amsterdam explodes with bustling markets and happy tourists, nearby, in quaint Haarlem, the cobblestoned heart of the city becomes a storybook. The Grote Markt turns into a maze of wooden stalls selling wool mittens, steaming cups of glühwein, and hand-carved ornaments. The sound of the orgel drifts from the old churches, the kind of bells that make you recall your childhood memories of waiting for Santa Claus. Locals sip hot chocolate, while children munch on appelflap (a traditional Dutch pastry) around the statue of Laurens Janszoon Coster. Haarlem’s market is small enough to feel personal, yet grand enough to sparkle.
The Cathedral of Saint Bavo in Haarlem/shutterstock
MahoganyWalnut Anthracite Grey pro Anthracite Grey Dark OakSoft GreenGolden OakJet BlackWalnut Pro
Further south, in Brabant, the Christmas spirit has a different warmth. Being known as one of the most kind Dutch provinces, Dutch gezelligheid (a feeling of warmth and coziness) is at its peak here. In Den Bosch or 's-Hertogenbosch, the medieval streets glow beneath strings of golden lights, and the air hums with laughter spilling out of cafés during its De Brabantse Winter festival. Locals gather at the ice rink in the city centre, skating in circles as church bells mark the hour. Vendors sell oliebollen, deep-fried dough balls dusted with sugar. Every bite tastes
like a warm hug. In Breda, North Brabant, mulled wine flows freely and the smell of sweet pastries mingles with the crisp winter air. Brabant celebrates Christmas as it does everything: wholeheartedly, with music, food, and an open door.
And then there’s Magical Maastricht, on the southern tip of the Netherlands, where December feels like stepping into a dream. The city’s Vrijthof Square becomes a wonderland of lights and laughter. You can wander between twinkling stalls, ride the Ferris wheel to see the rooftops shimmer, or
AMSTERDAM’S CANALS TURN TO GLITTERING ICE IN WINTER, INVITING SKATERS, WANDERERS, AND DREAMERS ONTO A FROZEN CITYSCAPE.
simply stand still to take in the glow of ancient churches dusted with frost. The market here is more than festive, it’s atmospheric, a mix of Dutch warmth and southern flair. Maastricht’s people know how to celebrate slowly. They linger over their drinks, hum along to holiday tunes, and greet strangers like friends.
But to truly feel the magic, you have to step even further off the map, into the smallest of towns that rarely make the headlines. In Deventer, the Dickens Festival transforms the streets into a living novel. Locals dress as chimney sweeps, beggars, and Victorian ladies, and you half expect to bump into Scrooge (the protagonist of Dickens' novel A Christmas Carol) himself. More down south in Valkenburg, Christmas takes an almost mythical turn. The market is held underground in ancient limestone caves, their walls glowing with candles. It’s surreal and intimate, the kind of unique experience that stays with you long after you’ve left.
Images: iStock
And of course, no Dutch Christmas is complete without its treats. Alongside oliebollen and appelflappen, you’ll find kerstkransjes; delicate ring-shaped cookies dipped in chocolate and sprinkles, hung on the tree before being eaten (usually sooner than planned). There’s speculaas, spiced biscuits shaped like windmills and saints, and banketstaaf, a flaky pastry filled with almond paste that melts in your mouth. The Dutch may be down to earth about almost anything, but when it comes to the holiday cheer, they don’t hold back.
As we say back home, “Geluk zit in een klein hoekje”, or “happiness is to be found in the smallest of corners”. That’s the heart of a Dutch Christmas. It’s not about extravagance or spectacle; it’s about light in the dark, warmth in the cold, and sharing something tasty with the people around you. Whether you’re wandering Haarlem’s cobbled lanes, skating in Den Bosch, or watching Maastricht shimmer by the river, the feeling is the same: a quiet, glowing warmth in the centre of your core.
Images: shutterstock
Baked Stories
Christmas in the Netherlands' small towns is not just about glowing cobblestone streets and glittering markets; the sweet scent of baked delights mingles with the cold air, deepening the joy of the festive season.
Images: shutterstock
SAVED
WHEN A VILLAGE THE SKY
O nce a poachers’ haven, Mangalajodi in Odisha has transformed into a soulful sanctuary where birds return each winter and a community rises with them.
At Mangalajodi, dawn doesn’t break with the sun; it unfurls in sound. Before the first blush of light touches the northern rim of Odisha’s Chilika Lake, thousands of wings cleave the stillness. Marsh grasses whisper, water ripples at the weight of landing teal, and the air trembles with the soft, far-travelled calls of birds from Siberia and beyond. For a wildlife photographer, Mangalajodi is less a destination and more a symphony in motion, one that begins anew every morning.
Words and wildlife photos by Nitin S. Jain
Chilika Lake/shutterstock
But just over a decade ago, nearly a hundred families here survived by hunting these very birds. Mangalajodi’s wetlands, now celebrated as a major birding haven, once echoed with a darker rhythm: the crack of traps, the stealthy steps of poachers, and the roasting of herons at roadside stalls. “In those days, you could go to a food stall and order a roasted bird for lunch,” recalls a local elder, the memory sounding almost impossible against today’s gentle landscape. Row across the waterways now, and the transformation feels nothing short of miraculous. Flocks rise in shimmering waves, every branch is weighed down by resting birds, and a proud local boatman narrates stories of how the world comes each winter to meet their "international guests".
When to Visit
From October to March, the region sees an influx of migratory birds, while the weather is cool and pleasant, making it perfect for early morning or evening boat rides. It is during these months that you can experience the peak of birdwatching activity.
The best way to understand this metamorphosis is to glide through Mangalajodi in a traditional country boat, rowed silently by former poachers who now know every reed, call, and nesting spot. These narrow wooden boats offer an intimacy no motorised craft can. As you slip through winding channels, the wetlands seem endless — flat, swampy, and horizon-bound. Time loosens its grip. You find yourself suspended in a world where the only markers are wingbeats, water, and light.
More than 200 species inhabit these wetlands; many of them arrive from distant geographies, instinctively trusting this fragile sanctuary each winter. Their numbers now surge to over three lakh birds at peak season, drawing everyone, from amateur photographers
Celebrating years
Explore Infinite Opportunities
Hemant Soren Chief Minister, Jharkhand
to India’s most respected ornithologists. Bronze-winged Jacana, Bar-headed Goose, Northern Shoveler, and Pacific Golden Plover flit past, while raptors such as the Brahminy Kite, Peregrine Falcon, and White-bellied Sea Eagle trace wide arcs overhead.
Today, Mangalajodi stands as one of India’s most stirring conservation success stories. Part of the Chilika Lake ecosystem, a Ramsar Wetland of International Importance, its brackish waters form a crucial feeding, breeding, and resting ground for life in its raw, breathtaking form.
And as the sun finally rises, washing the marsh with gold, you realise that Mangalajodi’s greatest miracle isn’t just the birds that return; it’s the people who chose to let them live.
Winter Birding in India
Winter transforms India into a migration haven, as millions of birds arrive from Central Asia, Europe, and Siberia. Besides Mangalajodi, other prime hotspots include Keoladeo National Park (Bharatpur), Pangot (Uttarakhand), Little Rann (Gujarat), and Kaziranga’s wetlands (Assam).
How to reach
Mangalajodi sits on the northern fringe of Chilika Lake, about 70 km from Bhubaneswar, Odisha, where the nearest airport is located.
The approximately two-hour road trip sets the tone for the adventure, winding through lush fields, wetlands, and quiet villages.
I ndiGo to BHUBANESWAR www.goIndiGo.in
Advanced FUE Hair Transplant: A Smarter, More Natural Way to Restore Hair
Hair restoration has advanced significantly in recent years, with Advanced FUE Hair Transplant with Implanters emerging as one of the most trusted techniques worldwide. Designed for natural density, minimal downtime, and discreet healing, it offers a refined alternative to traditional methods. Dr. Shalini Malhotra, among India’s few ABHRS-certified hair transplant surgeons, is known for her precision and implanter-based technique. She personally performs every procedure, ensuring safe, meticulous, and naturally blended results.
Why patients trust Dr. Shalini’s signature technique.
Unshaven procedure - no need to shave existing hair
Ideal for men & women looking for a discreet, natural look
Implanter-based technique for higher graft survival
Performed entirely by Dr. Shalini, not technicians
Quick recovery - resume work/travel as early as the next day
5000+ successful transplants Patient base in 25+ countries 14+ years of experience
Why is Advanced FUE considered the best hair transplant technique?
Advanced FUE (Follicular Unit Excision) is a modern, minimally invasive hair transplant procedure that offers natural-looking results without visible scarring. Using precision instruments and implanters, each hair follicle is carefully extracted and placed for maximum density and natural direction. It’s trusted worldwide for its safety, and ability to restore a full, natural hairline with minimal downtime.
Is it safe?
Yes. The procedure is minimally invasive, dermatologistperformed, and carried out under strict medical safety and hygiene protocols.
Do I need to shave my hair?
No. Our unshaven technique allows the procedure to be done without shaving, making it especially convenient & discreet.
Is it painful?
Local anesthesia keeps you comfortable during the entire procedure, and most patients describe the experience as very manageable, in fact enjoyable.
How long is the recovery?
Most people can return to routine work or travel the next day, with full healing progressing naturally over the following days.
Skilled team of doctors + nurses
“For me, hair transplant is not just a job — it’s my love ... it's my passion.”
*The American Board of Hair Restoration Surgery (ABHRS) is the globally recognized credential for hair transplant surgeons, signifying advanced training and trusted standards of care.
DARWIN 2.0:
DID AI JUST CREATE LIFE?
A new Stanford experiment shows artificial intelligence crafting new viruses, blurring the boundary between engineered innovation and the elemental forces that shape our lives, writes C arolyn Y. Johnson from
In a world of shouting debates and breaking alerts, Bharat Express is redefining what it means to be a national Hindi news channel, one story at a time. The network is also expanding its digital footprint through its multilingual website, www.bharatexpress.com, and news app (available on Android and iOS platforms), offering content in English, Hindi, and Urdu, along with 24x7 LIVE streaming of the channel.
Upendrra Rai Chairman & Managing Director Editor-in-Chief
The paper hasn’t yet been peer-reviewed, but it is fuelling conversations on what it all means and what it doesn’t. Reactions span the gamut, from “this changes everything” to a scientific shrug. Machines are a powerful new tool - with capabilities that build on what people have been doing for years with more traditional techniques.
A group of scientists from Stanford University, California, USA, recently posted a paper online, describing a feat that could have been plucked from the pages of science fiction. They used Artificial Intelligence (AI) to design new viruses capable of killing bacteria. In a world where AI keeps creeping in on uniquely human territory by composing sonnets, writing songs or forging friendships, this seemed to be crossing a new Rubicon. Depending on your belief system, AI seems to be doing what evolution, or God, or scientists working with genome-engineering tools aim to do.
“Machines are rethinking what it is to be human, what it is to be alive,” said Michael Hecht, a chemistry professor at US-based Princeton University, focussed on designing novel proteins and artificial genomes. “I find this very staggering. They are devising, coming up with novel life forms. Darwin 2.0,” he added.
Designing Life?
The experiment itself wasn’t dangerous, and designing “life” is a far heavier lift than the simple phage - a bacteria-infecting virus - that they created. Scientists used “Evo,” a generative AI model trained on the genomes of living things. Similar to how other AI large language models are trained on a massive corpus of text, the most advanced version of Evo ingested about nine trillion letters of DNA from an atlas spanning all domains of life.
Biology has already been revolutionised by AI tools that allow scientists to predict the structure of proteins and generate new ones - the molecules that make life work. Scientists are already using the tools to devise new anti-venom therapies for snake bites, invent new antibiotics, improve vaccines and break down harmful “forever chemicals.” It can also open up new risks, such as creating novel toxins.
Image: shutterstock
But the experiments in the paper went further, building an entire genome: the code for a simple type of virus, called a phage. Most scientists do not consider viruses to be “alive,” because outside of a host, they are unable to reproduce. The Stanford team focussed on a phage called phi-X174, which injects its genome into E. coli, where it co-opts the cellular machinery to multiply and then kills the cell, spilling out more phages.
Genome pioneer J. Craig Venter, who led an effort to build a bacterial genome from scratch and put it into a cell in 2010, said: “What current AI is good at is taking tasks that humans can now do and speeding it up a little bit.”
Brian Hie, a chemical engineer at Stanford and the nonprofit Arc Institute, unveiled “Evo” late last year. The aim was to go beyond individual proteins. “We’ve previously shown the models can design a single gene at a time, or two genes that interact with each other. But they can also be used to design entire pathways, and in this case, the entire genome of the very simple bacteriophage,” Hie said.
Science Behind the Scene
what we could do before?” said James Fraser, a structural biologist at the University of California at San Francisco.
Others are more impressed. “I was gobsmacked. I couldn’t believe it. I was giddy, as a scientist and a nerd,” said Drew Endy, a synthetic biologist at Stanford, who got an early look at the results from Samuel King, the graduate student who led the project. But he pushed back on the notion that AI created life, comparing the AI model to an exquisite musical instrument that can be used by human virtuosos. “AI has not done it, but Sam did it - using AI as a beautiful piano,” Endy said.
The Risks
AI GIVES SCIENTISTS THE ABILITY TO DESIGN DNA SEQUENCES THAT DON’T EXIST IN NATURE WITH RELATIVE EASE.
In 1999, Endy got his first DNA synthesiser, a molecular printer capable of spitting out 200,000 letters of DNA in a month. The bottleneck at the time was: what to write? It was like having a printer without a word processor or a language or a dictionary, he recalled. AI gives scientists the ability to design DNA sequences that don’t exist in nature with relative ease. With that possibility comes risk. Endy thinks that in the future, anyone in the world will eventually have the ability to design any number of toxins or dangerous pathogens.
While some have feared that AI-designed life is on the horizon, Hie said that was not on his agenda at the moment. He is thinking about making parts of organisms that could perform useful functions, such as manufacturing drugs. “We have not yet started or done anything towards making artificial life,” Hie said. “It would be quite difficult.”
Some experts want to dig deeper into the data. “This is all stuff we could do before generative AI, and the real question is, are we doing it faster, more efficiently, much more novel - what are really the properties that go beyond
AI vulnerabilities are often discovered and managed after people are already using the technology. Some scientists are trying to put guardrails on the technology now, to reduce the chances it can be used for harm.
Julian Savulescu, a professor of medical ethics at the National University of Singapore, said that while this phage project could have medical applications, the technology is propelling humanity into “uncharted biological territory" that needs to be navigated with precaution.
SCALING WITH PURPOSE: HOW DAVAINDIA REACHED EVERY CORNER OF INDIA
Davaindia’s growth wasn’t just adding stores. It meant reaching small towns and cities alike, showing how one pharmacy can truly transform community health where it’s needed most.
"Davaindia is a pioneering force in the healthcare industry, reshaping the landscape by making high-quality generic medicines affordable and accessible to all. Our vision is to create a healthier and more equitable future for everyone we serve."
– Dr. Sujit Paul, Group CEO, Zota Healthcare Limited
From the beginning, the question was simple: What if every Indian, in every lane and locality, could access trusted, affordable medicine without feeling helpless at the counter? Scaling up was never just about opening more stores. It was about reaching the people who needed us the most – the ones living far from big hospitals and fancy chemists.
That’s why you’ll find Davaindia not only in buzzing city markets, but also in small towns and growing neighbourhoods where one honest pharmacy can change how an entire community manages health. Each store is designed to lower the monthly burden of medicine costs, especially for those on longterm treatment for diabetes, heart conditions, or chronic pain.
Behind every prescription we fill, there’s an ethic we refuse to compromise on:
• Quality that matches branded medicines.
• Transparent pricing that families can plan around.
• Pharmacists trained to guide, not just bill.
We work with local entrepreneurs and pharmacists, giving them a strong backbone of supply chain, rigorous quality checks, and clear processes. They, in turn, bring what matters most: care, trust, and a familiar face across the counter.
For the elderly man who no longer has to choose between his BP tablets and his groceries, for the single mother managing both school fees and inhalers, for the migrant worker who finds the same Davaindia sign in a new city – this is where “scaling with purpose” becomes real.
As you fly over the patchwork of India’s cities, towns, and villages, chances are there’s a Davaindia store somewhere below – quietly doing its job, making healthcare a little fairer, and dignity a little more affordable, one refill at a time.
VISIONS OF THE VICE-CHANCELLOR
LEADING MAHE FORWARD
The Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE), now an Institution of Eminence, was established over 60 years ago by Dr. T.M.A. Pai, a visionary who dreamt of creating an ecosystem of educational excellence. 5 years ago, Lt. Gen. (Dr.) M.D. Venkatesh VSM (Retd.) took over as the Vice Chancellor of MAHE. Joining the pantheon of the diversely qualified leadership, Dr. Venkatesh is a retired army doctor and a former Dean of the Armed Forces Medical College, Pune, as well as a recipient of the Vishisht Seva Medal from the President of India.
How has MAHE evolved under your leadership so far?
I assumed the role of Vice-Chancellor on July 1, 2020. Since then, my primary focus has been on implementing the National Education Policy (NEP) in a manner that enriches our multidisciplinary ethos. In the last 5 years, we have emerged stronger as a leading multidisciplinary private university of national and global repute.
What milestones has MAHE crossed in the last 5 years?
MAHE secured 3rd place in the 2025 NIRF University Rankings. Kasturba Medical College, Manipal, ranked 10th in the medical category; Manipal College of Dental Sciences, Manipal, 5th in dental; and Manipal College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, 8th in pharmacy. MAHE was also recognised as India’s top deemed multidisciplinary university in the Week–Hansa Best University Rankings. In the 2025 Shanghai Global Ranking, MAHE ranked 301–400 in Public Health — the highest in India — and 401–500 in Clinical Medicine, placing third nationally.
The university hosts over 3,500 PhD scholars, manages several collaborative public and private research grants, and continues to expand its research infrastructure.
How did Humanities emerge at MAHE, which is known for Medicine and Technology, during your leadership?
MAHE operates across three verticals: the Faculty of Health Sciences, the Faculty of Technology and Sciences, and the Faculty of Management, Law, Humanities, and Social Sciences. While our medical
and technical programs remain widely recognised, we continue to strengthen the humanities and social sciences to foster a truly multidisciplinary ecosystem. A dedicated Pro Vice Chancellor position now drives this renewed focus.
This commitment is reflected in our institutional developments: TAPMI integrated with MAHE four years ago; the Department of Commerce expanded into the Manipal School of Commerce and Economics (MSCE); six independent Centres merged to form the Manipal Institute of Social Sciences and Humanities (MISHA); and the Srishti Manipal Institute of Art, Design and Technology (SMI) emerged following the 2020 merger. Our longstanding Manipal Institute of Communication remains one of India’s most respected media schools. The Bengaluru campus further reinforces our focus on the humanities and houses the Manipal Law School (MLS).
How has this journey been for you?
I am thoroughly enjoying my tenure as the Vice Chancellor. Good leadership, for me, is about bringing people together and building a team. As a leader, one needs to be a mentor and a facilitator, which entails giving them space, taking initiative, and allowing them to progress at their own pace.
INR 500 / USD 6
To refer to the passenger charter introduced by the Ministry of Civil Aviation stating your rights, please contact our crew.
Shades on or off?
Believe it or not, your window shades play an important role in ensuring your safety. Here's how:
1. Keeping your window shades up during takeoff/ landing helps the cabin crew quickly assess the situation outside and form an exit plan in case of an unforeseen circumstance.
2. Once the doors are opened upon arrival, the cabin crew may ask you to close the window shades to maintain the cabin temperature and ensure your comfort and safety.
Please follow your cabin crew’s instructions for a safe flight.
Travel onthecards
Exclusive offers | Easy booking | Secured payments Scan to know more Now book IndiGo flight s with ease on WhatsApp.
Book now by just saying ‘hi’ on
50%* off on Sight Seeing
• 3 lakh+ tours and activities
• Free cancellation up to 24 hours
• Earn IndiGo BluChips
INTERNATIONAL DAY OF PERSONS WITH DISABILITIES
December
3, 2025
Accessibility For
All
A s the world progresses towards becoming an accessible place for everyone, IndiGo is committed to fostering disability-inclusive workspaces. Our team comprises colleagues with 13 different types of disabilities, all of whom are capable of completing passenger check-ins within the standard timeframe, demonstrating the same level of efficiency as their colleagues. Furthermore, our AOCS team has received training in the basics of Indian Sign Language to ensure seamless communication for colleagues and travellers.
Smart SME
We're making business travel smoother, smarter, and more rewarding for our SME partners.
Hold fare starting at just Unlimited fare surge protection *T&C apply. ‡99*
6E Fare Hold
London (Gatwick)
London (Heathrow)
SAUCE OF
Success
A Merchant Navy officerturnedfounder who bottled failure into flavour, Veeba’s creator Viraj Bahl shares how instinct, grit, and "boring work" built a food giant.
Why sauces?
Why not! Veeba was born from a simple thought: why should India, a country that lives and breathes food, depend on the world for taste? In my early professional days, when I was sailing with the Merchant Navy, I was amazed by the variety of sauces and condiments on shelves abroad. Years later, while running my own restaurant, Pocket Full, I realised how little of that choice existed back home. India of the early 2000s was tomato ketchup, hot-sweet sauce, a little of mayonnaise, and mustard. That gap became my purpose.
From engineering to Merchant Navy and then a food entrepreneur - what inspired the shift?
The shift from engineering to Veeba was shaped by my upbringing, my belief in perseverance, early exposure to food as culture, and the hard-earned lessons
from my failed first venture. The failure taught me more than success ever could about operations, supply chains, customers, and the discipline needed. Those lessons became the foundation of Veeba.
When my parents started their own business, every extra hour they put in translated into a better life for us. That’s how I learnt that effort and reward are deeply linked.
The most challenging part of building a brand?
The real challenge begins once the product leaves the factory. Getting it onto the shelves across the country, ensuring long-term availability, and earning a space in a consumer’s routine is where the real work happens. Maintaining consistent reach across the country requires discipline, patience, and a lot of regular effort.
How do you deal with setbacks?
Setbacks are tough, but they help in redirection. It is after the failure of my previous venture that Veeba started, as it gave me the insight that the kind of sauces I was looking for were not available in India. You either let failure finish you, or let it teach you!
Business instinct or data?
For me, everything begins with instinct. It is a part of decision-making that you cannot outsource or quantify. It comes from years of paying attention to how people respond to things, and what has the potential to become a habit. But instinct works best when it is balanced with data.
Work-life balance.
I’ve never believed in glorifying long hours. Productivity is about focus and doing the job well. A founder’s mind may never switch off, but that shouldn’t become an expectation from
Your favourite holiday spot.
London! My boys love the Harry Potter Studio, and seeing their excitement makes the city special for me.
the team. Sustainable growth needs energy, not exhaustion.
3 things every start-up founder should keep in mind. It’s easier than ever to start but, harder to sustain. What truly defines the journey isn’t the resources, it’s the people around you.
Entrepreneurship is never a solo act. Your family, co-founders, and team shape the foundation
“You either let failure finish you, or let it teach you!”
you build on, especially when things don’t go your way. Surround yourself with people who can keep you grounded, motivated, and mentally strong. Always hire people who are sharper, hungrier, and more skilled in their domains. Don’t be threatened by talent, be powered by it. A strong team elevates you and the company.
Advice to every corporate employee aspiring to become an entrepreneur.
Pay attention to the details in business, build simple systems, and be ready to work hard. In a corporate role, you operate within existing structures. When you become a founder, you get the chance to build those structures yourself.
How do you unwind?
Spending time with my two sons. They have an incredible way of bringing perspective through their questions, energy, and their simplicity, which reminds me to not take life too seriously.
