Spiceroute June 2012

Volume Vl Issue VI June 2012

www.spiceroutemag.com

The inflight magazine of SpiceJet

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Sri Lankan odyssey FOR OUR NEW FRESH AND HOT MEALS Turn to pg. 180

In conversation Nandita Das, Subodh Gupta

Welcome

Seven glorious years

Kalanithi Maran Chairman

Dear Spicejetters, On May 23rd, SpiceJet completed seven glorious years of service in the Indian skies.

On this auspicious occasion we would like to thank all of you for your continuous support, for believing in us and helping us achieve this milestone. Through this long journey, SpiceJet has added many new destinations and services for the benefit of all passengers.

On our 7th anniversary, it gives me immense pleasure to announce that SpiceJet is soon going to add seven more international destinations to its network. The airline plans to fly to destinations such as Dubai, Riyadh, Kabul, Male, Guangzhou, Bangkok and Hong Kong.

We are always looking at serving you better, both in terms of services and connectivity. In the coming months, we will be adding more domestic destinations to our network. We plan to add 10 new domestic destinations from Delhi which will make our network the best of all domestic carriers.

magazine for an engaging read. The cover story this issue depicts Colombo in all its beauty. Our other stories are on Ahmedabad, and Varanasi, where you can fly with us.

We recently added the 34th Boeing to our fleet of aircraft. This milestone delivery introduces the Boeing Sky Interior to our 737-800 fleet.

We had also introduced this new enhanced interior in our 737-900 aircraft in Dec 2011.

We have christened this aircraft - ‘Caraway’ as a part of our tradition to name all our aircraft after the name of a spice.

Happy Flying!

While onboard, do pick a copy of Spiceroute

As always, feel free to write and give your feedback at custrelations@spicejet.com.

Kalanithi Maran Chairman

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Contents

COO & Publisher: Vikas Johari CEO & Managing Director: Prakash Johari CFO: Kuldip Singh Editor: Florina Soren Information: info@maxposure.in Submissions: editor@maxposure.in Advertising: sales@maxposure.in Accounts: accounts@maxposure.in Careers: hr@maxposure.in E-mail: spiceroute@maxposure.in

MaXposure Media Group India Pvt. Ltd.

Head Office Unit No F2b ( Second Floor), Mira Corporate Suites, Plot No . 1 & 2, Ishwar Nagar, Mathura Road, New Delhi -110065, Tel: 91.11.47411100, 011-43011111 West | Mumbai|T.V. Industrial Estate, Basement, B-22, A.K. Ahire Marg, Worli, Mumbai-400018, Tel: 91.22-61991111, Fax: 91.22.61991115 Ahmedabad | Top floor, Navrang Bldg. Opposite Pizza Hut, Near Swastik Char, Rasta, Navrangpura, Ahmedabad 380 009, 079 - 65102355 East | Kolkata|Sudarshan Business, Centre, 7B, RaniRash Road, 1st Floor, Kolkata-700 013, Tel: 91.9831342496, 91.33.22658479 South | Bangaluru |1010 A Wing,10th Floor, Mittal Towers, M.G. Road, Bangaluru-560001, Karnataka, India, Tel: 91.80.40921037-38, Fax: 91.80.41510657 Hyderabad | Executive Business Club, Mount Banjara Apartment, 1st Floor, Road no 12, Banjara hills, Hyderabad-500034, Tel: 91.40.66786800, 91.9700001177, Fax: 91.40.66785800 Chennai| FL 9, Alsa Mall, First Floor, 149, Montieth Road, Egmore, Chennai-600008, Tel: 91.44.42015685, Fax: 91.44.42015684 Sales Representative Offices Indore & Nagpur | Near Jain Mandir, Opp. Study Point, Deepak Nagar, Durg, Chattisgarh- 491001, Tel: 91.9755219777

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HOT DATES 14 Hot & Happening

June happenings across SpiceJet network

London | Kevin Rolfe |INK | 141-143 Shoreditch High Street, London E1 6JE, UK, Tel: +44.20.76138777, Fax: +44.207.613.8776, Email: Kevin.Rolfe@ink-global.com Turkey |Tan Bilge | Media Ltd. Ali Sami Yen Sok. No. 2 Kat 3, 34394 Gayrettepe/Istanbul Turkey, Phone +90 (0) 212 / 2 75 84 33 Fax +90 (0) 212 / 2 75 92 28, Email: tanbilge@medialtd.com.tr ASIA | SINGAPORE, HONGKONG, CHINA Peter Jeffery, Asian In-Flight Media Ltd. Unit 1802, 18/F, 88 Hing Fat Street, Causeway Bay, Hong Kong, Tel: (852) 2850 4017, Fax: (852) 2850 4097 email: peterjeffery@asianimedia.com Japan |Yoshihiro Igusa | PACIFIC BUSINESS INC, Akutagawa Bldg, 7-7 Nihonbashi Kabutocho, Chuo-ku Tokyo 103-0026 JAPAN, T:+81-(0)3-3661-6138, F:+81-(0)3-3661-6139 E:Igusa-pbi@gol.com Malaysia |Shallie Cheng | Mind Sense Sdn.Bhd. No.107, 1st.Floor Menara Mutiara Majestic, Section 3, 46,000 Petaling Jaya, Malaysia. Tel : 60-3 7781 7700 Email: shallie.cheng@gmail.com South Korea | Jung-Won Suh | SINSEGI MEDIA INC. Jungang Bldg,. room 817, 44-21, Yeouido-dong, Yeongdeungpo-gu, Seoul, Korea 150-890, Tel: 82-2-785-8222, Fax:82-2-785-8225, Email: sinsegi-2@sinsegimedia.info Middle East | Mona S Thomas| Integrated Advertising Services FZ LLC 1105 - Grosvenor Business Tower, Tecom Site C, Near Media Rotana Hotel, Greens. P.O.Box - 27671, Dubai, U.A.E. Tel : +9714 4475760, Fax : +9714 4475761, Email : mona@iasmedia.com THAILAND| Stephen Marsh| Managing Director | Media Representation International Co. Ltd., A: 168 Sukhumvit Soi 20, Sukhumvit Road, Bangkok 10110 Thailand.

M : +668.6777.3417 T: +662.204.2699 F: +662.663.7048 E: stephen@MediaRepInt.com; stephen@mediarepint.com www.mediarepint.com Americas | Canada | Wayne Saint John| Publicitas Canada, 468 Queen Street East, 300 Toronto, Ontario M5A 1T7, T +1 416-363-1388, F +1 416-363-2889, Email: wstjohn@aprcanada.com, Website: www.publicitas.com/canadaapr USA West coast | Ralph Lockwood| Huson International Media, 1999 South Bascom Avenue Suite 450, Campbell, CA 95008, USA, Tel: +1-408 879 6666, Fax: +1-408 879 6669 Email: ralph.lockwood@husonmedia.com USA East coast | Dustin Guzowski |Huson International Media| 13-17 Laight St. Ste 401, New York, NY. 10013 Tel: 212.268.3344, Fax: 212.268.3355, E-Mail: dustin.guzowski@husonmedia.com

For Advertising |91.9892010669

M E M B E R

NEWS BYTES 16 TRAVEL BUZZ

Latest in travel sector

SPICE SPECIAL 28 SPLENDID SEVEN

SpiceJet completes seven years

Spiceroute MAGAZINE. Printed AND PUBLISHED BY VIKAS JOHARI ON BEHALF OF MAXPOSURE MEDIA GROUP (INDIA) PVT. LTD. (MMGipl) for spicejet ltd. AND PUBLISHED AT MMGipl, Unit No F2b ( Second Floor), Mira Corporate Suites, Plot No . 1 & 2, Ishwar Nagar, Mathura Road, New Delhi -110065, india. Spiceroute MAGAZINE is published monthly. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. THE WRITING, ARTWORK AND/OR PHOTOGRAPHY CONTAINED HEREIN MAY NOT BE USED OR REPRODUCED WITHOUT THE EXPRESS WRITTEN PERMISSION OF MMGipl. MMGipl DOES NOT ASSUME RESPONSIBILITY FOR LOSS OR DAMAGE OF UNSOLICITED PRODUCTS, MANUSCRIPTS, PHOTOGRAPHS, ARTWORK, TRANSPARENCIES OR OTHER MATERIALS. The views expressed in the magazine are not necessarily those of the publisher or SpiceJet. All efforts have been made while compiling the content of this magazine, but we assume no responsibility for the effects arising there from. MMGipl DOES NOT ASSUME ANY LIABILITY FOR SERVICES OR PRODUCTS ADVERTISED HEREIN. FOR INQUIRIES | MMGipl TEL: +91.11.43011111, 47411100. www.Spicejet.com, www. maxposure.in

now follow us on twitter & facebook www.twitter.com/flyspicejet; www.facebook.com/flyspiceJet

4 June 2012

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Contents

Cover Story 32

Colombo 10: The list Offerings from the Sri Lankan capital

Fast Track 42

48 hours in ahmedabad Splendid flavours of heritage strewn city

Spice Halt 46 Volume Vl Issue VI June 2012

changing trends Varanasi, evolving with time

54 marvellous mussoorie

www.spiceroutemag.com

The inflight magazine of SpiceJet

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Walking in the woods in the hill county

Spice option

60 beach paradise JUNE 2012

Varkala, a quick getaway from Calicut

Sri Lankan odyssey FOR OUR NEW FRESH AND HOT MEALS Turn to pg. 180

SPICE TRAVEL 64 riding the wave

Festive activities this June

In conversation Nandita Das, Subodh Gupta

Spice trail

72 to sweet to be sour

Add zing to your meal with tamarind

Spice platter

76 summer quenchers

Combat summer blues with cool drinks

Spice platter

80 happy brunching

Make most of your Sundays

Spice talk

88 spirited diva

Nandita Das on her family life

92 man of steel

Artist Subodh Gupta on his latest installation

WELLNESS 96 work on wellness

Purifying techniques for well being

SpiceJet now offers over 200 new connections on its existing network For details log on to www.spicejet.com

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Contents

Spice Fortune

150 numerological Readings Predictions for June 2012

154 SPICEJET DESTINATIONS 166 SPICEJET ROUTE MAP 168 Fleet Guide 172 SPICEJET SCHEDULE 178 SPICEJET OFFICES 180 SPICE BITES

spice feature

102 beauty in woods

Stunning Kondapalli toys from Andhra

karma

108 life Saviours

Urging people to donate blood

spotlight

114 Enchanting Gujarat

Myriad flavours from Gujarat

Bits and Bytes

120 GADGET

Laze and lounge 124 FilmS 126 BOOKS Fairytale 128 water water baby

Picnic time at a water park

134 go out and play

Outdoor fun for the summer vacation

KIDSZONE 138 comics 140 Games Photo Feature 144 island beauties

Take a stroll in Andamans

SpiceJet now offers over 200 new connections on its existing network For details log on to www.spicejet.com

8 June 2012

www.spiceroutemag.com

Spice mail

Letters from the

SpiceJet family Comfortable journey

Great service

I am a frequent flyer and for a recent trip, I took a SpiceJet flight. I must say it was a comfortable flight. The cabin crew and support ground staff is hospitable towards all the passengers. I greatly appreciate such dedication, cheerful demeanor and concern for passengers. This makes travelling with SpiceJet a great experience.

I am pleased to inform you that the services provided by SpiceJet are incredible.

The airline staff is extremely cordial and hospitable, especially towards the senior citizens who needs assistance. The ground staff also assures smooth check-in for all the passengers.

Bhavesh Singh Mumbai

Rajendra Jain Ahmedabad

Helpful staff

The only reason I choose your airline is the commendable and friendly service provided by your staff at the check-in counters. Patient and attentive service imparted by your staff helped in smooth check-in procedure. I appreciate the way they helped passengers in loading and unloading their baggage.

Shetal Zaveri Ahmedabad

10 June 2012

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BRIDES OF INDIA / KARNATAKA / MANGALORE BUNT BRIDE

Sumangalis bid her an auspicious welcome as she takes her first step into a new life, the mangalsutra completing the wife in her. Decked up in auspicious golden jewellery, no one would fail to notice a thousand lamps of hope lighting up in her eyes. An eternal moment in your life, APRIL 10 - JULY 31

made memorable with the Golden touch of Malabar Gold & Diamonds.

‘Brides of India’ Jewellery Festival. A celebration in pure gold. Malabar Gold & Diamonds brings you the sheer vibrancy of varied wedding customs from diverse cultures, spread across the country. Celebrate the most pivotal festival in your life with exquisite ethnic jewellery from our exclusive Brides of India Collection.

Book jewellery in advance and grab more privileges. Exciting gifts with every purchase. 1500 Lucky couples also win honeymoon trips to exotic holiday-spots like Singapore, Malaysia, Ooty, Kodaikanal, Munnar, Thekkady, Kumarakom, and more!

CELEBRATE THE BEAUTY OF LIFE 6 7 S H O W R O O M S A C R O S S K E R A L A , K A R N ATA K A , TA M I L N A D U , A N D H R A P R A D E S H , D E L H I & G C C .

hot dates Events in June 2012 across SpiceJet network

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Children from Delhi, here’s your chance to learn papier mache, paper jewellery, flower pot painting, recycled magazine flowers and a lot more at summer workshop by Sophie Creations. At D-85, Ist floor, Saket, New Delhi.

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Calling all Mumbaikars to celebrate the arrival of summer with the ubiquitous Indian Mango. Asia Sever offers some of the most delectable delicacies, drinks and desserts prepared with mangoes this season. At Asia Seven, Palladium Mall, High Street Phoenix, Mumbai.

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Madhubani, Warli and Egyptian Art, a solo painting exhibition features artist Rohan Dahivale’s works. Know the inticacies and techniques used in making these paintings like twigs, brushes. At Yashwantrao Chavan Art Gallery, Pune.

Keep your kids engaged with the summer workshop by Birla Academy of Art and Culture.

This year the academy will hold classes on mask making. At 108 Southern Avenue, Kolkata.

India Auto Expo, one of the largest trade fairs for the automotive industry will showcase the best brands in the sector involved in manufacturing and designing products and technologies. At Chennai Trade & Convention Centre, Chennai.

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Watch Vinay Pathak live in action as he gives a theatrical performance called Vinay Pathak is Nothing Like Lear’, a devised performance on Shakespeare King’s Lear.

At MLR Convention Centre – Whitefield, Dyvasandra Industrial Layout, Whitefield, Bangalore.

Wash away all the summer blues with special summer festival at The Square. The menu at the restaurant is specially designed to keep you energized. At Novotel Hyderabad Convention Centre, Hyderabad.

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News bytes

Travel Buzz Mega sale carnival back in Malaysia

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ome June 15 and shopaholics from across the world will flock to Malaysia as the mega-brand, mega-bargain and mega-exciting ‘Mega Sale Carnival’ is back. This year, the theme of the carnival is ‘Shop and Save’, as the most incredible bargains can be found here. It’s an opportunity for shoppers to fill their carts with major brands and the latest introductions, from electronics to apparel, home décor to holiday packages, as well as entertainment activities, all at fabulous prices. One of the most eagerly awaited events, the carnival offers a spread of bargains, discounts, promotions and activities to shoppers in association with leading shopping malls, department stores, retailers and even vendors from street markets. Malaysia has always been the leader in offering the world the best of retail therapy, great dining experiences and entertainment, at prices that are simply irresistible.

Bollywood superstar collection at Madam Tussauds Hong Kong

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adame Tussauds Hong Kong unveiled the superstar collection of Bollywood A-Lister, including Aishwarya Rai Bachchan, Kareena Kapoor, Hrithik Roshan, and Shah Rukh Khan. They will reside alongside Amitabh Bachchan in the World Premiere zone from now until July 19, 2012.

Designed to allow fans across the globe to meet the Bollywood idols, the wax figures are now on a world tour as they travel from Blackpool to other Madame Tussauds attractions including Hong Kong, Bangkok, London and other sites in Europe and the US. These four Bollywood icons have already arrived and are waiting to meet their fans in Hong Kong, along with Amitabh Bachchan, one of the most prominent figures in the history of Indian cinema and the very first permanent Bollywood wax figure exhibited at Madame Tussauds Hong Kong. Kelly Mak, General Manager of Madame Tussauds Hong Kong, said, “We are very excited to see some of the greatest Bollywood stars take the stage here in Hong Kong. As we observe an increasing number of visitors from India, I’m sure they would be pleased to see their idols up close even away from home.”

16 June 2012

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News bytes

Lion City to host 13th IIFA weekend and awards

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aking Indian Cinema to glorious pinnacles beyond national shores, and across four continents and 10 countries, the International Indian Film Academy (IIFA) announced that the 13th IIFA Weekend and Awards will be held in Singapore from June 7 to 9 this year. Having left an indelible footprint in China, Europe, the Middle East, Thailand, Sri Lanka and Canada over the last 12 years, the film fraternity is gearing up for three days of action-packed, celebrations in the Lion City, Singapore. Supported by the Singapore Tourism Board, the much-anticipated IIFA celebrations were heralded in Singapore by superstars Anil Kapoor and Bipasha Basu. Over the years, IIFA has emerged as the most prestigious platform recognizing excellence in the Indian film industry. The impact of IIFA Singapore was experienced across tourism influx, investments into Singapore and stronger ties between the countries.

18 June 2012

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Indians in love with South Africa

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outh Africa continues to grow as a preferred holiday destination for Indians as a large number of Indian tourists are preferring South Africa as their holiday destination as proven by the recent arrivals statistics of the country.

An exceptional jump of 26.2 per cent in Indian arrivals was witnessed with a total of 90, 367 Indians tourists travelling to the country during the calendar year of 2011. The country’s overall growth in 2011 was largely due to a 14.6 per cent growth in the emerging markets of Asia (driven by growth of 26.2% by India). Commenting on the growth figures Hanneli Slabber, Country Head, South African Tourism India said, “We have stressed on the importance of the Indian market time and again. We have a long-term vision and expectation from India and we hope consumers would help us in this.”

News bytes

Pilgrim tourism in Bihar

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Bekal: Kerala’s latest offering for tourists

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new phase of energetic growth, driven by environment friendly and community focused policies, will bring the six districts of Malabar into sharp focus on the Kerala Tourism map, Chief Minister Oommen Chandy said at a recent function. Mega infrastructure projects such as the Kannur international airport and the proposed expansion of the Kozhikode airport signal the government’s efforts to tap the vast tourism potential of Malabar area, the Chief Minister said while inaugurating the flagship ‘Know Bekal’ promotional campaign. Talking about the initiative, the minister said, “Tourism, coastal transport and national waterways are three of the biggest hopes of Kerala’s economy. Bekal, which is in a position to support all three, is therefore at a huge advantage. Bekal has visibly changed over the past few years and we intend to keep this growth going.”

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he state of Bihar, which has lured tourists for centuries for its historical and religious relevance, has stood out as one of India’s leading tourist destinations with over 13 lakh tourists recorded in 2011, out of which 9,42,000 were foreign tourist. Encouraging the demand for pilgrimage tourism, the PHD Chamber of Commerce and Industry organised the seminar – ‘Journey through Religious Bihar - a Curtain Raiser’. With Buddhism, Jainism and Sikhism being globally known and practiced, Bihar has for many years attracted tourists following these religions and philosophies.

The Bihar state government’s aim is to take the State from a developing tourism state to a developed tourism state.

Detailing out the plan, PHDCCI secretary general, Susmita Shekhar said, “We are here to create a platform to bring together travel agents, the hotel Industry, airlines and corporate groups who want to invest in infrastructure.”

The companies that advertise in Dinakaran would form the who’s who of the Indian industry

 Average ABC certifed daily circulation of a whopping 12,59,463 copies  IRS certified readership of 52.27 lakhs  Published from eight centres in Tamilnadu  Also published from Pondy, Bangalore, Mumbai and Delhi  Winner of Best Tamil Daily award from ILNA  All pages printed in colour  Weekend supplements that are colourful as well as informative If you have still not started advertising in Dinakaran, call or sms 98400 22729 now or email to advtdinakaran@gmail.com

D nakaran The only widely circulated Tamil Daily in India

News bytes

Savour Chinese delicacies

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Smart mobile, smarter travel

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f you thought mobile devices were only to talk, think again! According to the ‘Mobile Device Travel Survey’

by TripAdvisor, smart phones and tablets are becoming essential travel accessories as more and more Indians jettison their plain-vanilla mobile phones for smarter devices.

The trend is clearly reflected in a recent survey among respondents. While 65 per cent people said they possess a smart phone, 22 per cent confess to being proud owners of a tablet. Fitted with snappy travel applications, these smart devices are helping travellers go further and do more ‘on-thego’ than ever before. The survey found that taking/sharing photos, navigation, and games were the top three things travellers use their mobile for apart from calling and texting.

According to Nikhil Ganju, Country Manager, “For tech savvy Indians, mobile devices are becoming an integral part of their holidays. Starting from research on destinations, attractions, hotels to actual booking of accommodation and flights and location based services at the holiday destination; the mobile fits all in the palm of your hand.”

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f you are a fan of Oriental cuisine, especially Cantonese and Sinchuan, Chynna Gold at Hiton New Delhi/ Janakpuri is the right place to try out these delicious flavours. The fine dining restaurant has launched a new menu, which is an extensive selection of appetizers, soups, main course and desserts. Prepared by the new Chef de Cuisine, Master Chef Baiyan Zhou, known for his passion for artistic and creative expression, the new menu includes a variety of gourmet delights and classic delicacies such as Fried Tofu with Sichuan Chilli Paste, Steamed Chilean Sea Bass, Gong Bao Chicken and Beijing Roast Duck. “The menu has been redesigned and Sichuan influence has been enhanced to entice the taste buds of guests in residence and visitors to the hotel. We believe a fine dining restaurant should offer not just good cuisine but an experience for all senses. At Chynna Gold our endeavour is to present a great culinary journey”, said Rubal Chaudhry, general manager of the hotel. What are you waiting for? Book a table and enjoy the sumptuous meal.

News bytes

Hip Asia celebrates 8th anniversary

Vivanta by Taj – Connemara, Chennai celebrates Hip Asia’s 8th anniversary by introducing a new Japanese specialty Chef and the art of Sushi Rolling Hip Asia, the innovative pan-Asian restaurant at the hotel. Adding an imaginative twist to your meal, Hip Asia introduces its new Japanese specialty chef, Chef Juancho Miday, who will host sushi making session, a chance to roll your way to becoming a pro. The session will be followed by an authentic three-course Japanese meal at the Teppenyaki counter, where the Chef will showcase his amazing talent of juggling and creating rhythmic beats with his cooking cutlery, while dishes out some of the most delicious Japanese recipes for your indulgence. Vijay Shrikent, General Manager, Vivanta by Taj-Connemara says, “Hip Asia has been the city’s favourite pan-Asian restaurant since it launched. We introduced Teppenyaki cooking first time in Chennai.”

Perfect weekend escapade in Ooty

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inclairs Retreat Ooty is now open. The extensive refurbishment plan took more than a year for the hotel to be born in its new avatar. The hill resort, which boasts of 79 rooms, offers the most stunning view of the Nilgiris, the blue mountains in Tamil Nadu. The hotel has ensured that the new design enhances guest comfort and convenience while retaining some of the favourite features including tastefully refurbished rooms offering contemporary and cosy ambience, a spacious lobby allowing sweeping sights of the Nilgiris. The multi-cuisine restaurant is back with a fresh look and an inviting menu. Tic Tac Toe is the thoughtfully designed kids zone with videogames, badminton, air-hockey, table tennis and more.The hotel’s banquet facilities have undergone a complete makeover, presenting three of the town’s most elegant meeting spaces.

Events for 15 to 300 people can be held at the redesigned Regal Room, Windsor Room and The Summit Room. There is also a fully equipped business centre conveniently located in the lobby.

24 June 2012

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Expo 2012 Yeosu Korea to highlight marine development

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outh Korea is a land of exceptional natural beauty, steeped in history, age old traditions, religion and culture.On November 26, 2007, Korea won its bid to host the 2012 World Expo in its southern coastal city of Yeosu. This year, under the theme ‘Living Ocean and Coast’, 106 countries and nine international organizations will showcase their diverse marine development and advancement of oceanic technology on the southern shore of the Korean Peninsula from 12th May to 12th August 2012. Yeosu, a port city about 455 kilometers south of Seoul will play host to the 93-day event, the first here since the 1993 Daejeon Expo and is expected to lure around 8 million visitors around the world. At this Expo, countries will pledge and enhance their cooperation to protect the ocean for the future survival of the world. Countries participating will share knowledge on the proper use of the ocean and recognize the need for cooperation in the marine sector. Alongside the pavilions, the event will also showcase three landmarks the Big-O, Sky Tower and Expo Digital Galle.

Spice special

Splendid

seven SpiceJet Ltd began its commercial operations on May 23, 2005 and since then has become one of the most preferred choices of many air travellers. Today, the airline is the third largest domestic carrier and has over 17 per cent of market share. On an average over 36,000 guests prefer to fly SpiceJet everyday and over 1 million every month.

Florina Soren

28 June 2012

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year back, SpiceJet touched only 20 cities in India and had just started two international routes.

This year, on its 7th anniversary, SpiceJet has over 34 destinations within the country and is about to start six more international routes. On 23 May SpiceJet airline completed seven glorious years of service having successfully established itself as one of the most preferred low-cost carriers.

The days ahead spell expansion both internationally and domestically even as the airline has massive plans of adding destinations

in Uttarakhand, Rajasthan, Punjab and Madhya Pradesh. The airline is also looking at adding cities in South and West India. In the last couple of months, SpiceJet has started services to cities like Nanded, Tuticorin, Calicut, Port Blair, Bhopal and Indore besides many others. With Hyderabad and Chennai as its Q400 hub, SpiceJet is also concentrating on increasing connectivity to short haul destinations.

Another first In August 2012, the airline inducted the state-of-art Bombardier Q400 aircraft which are extensively being used in the short haul

routes. A first, not only in India but in Asia, these Bombardier aircraft are known for their quiet performance, fuel efficiency and lower emission levels. Launched in 2008, Bombardier’s fast Q400 NextGen turboprop airliner is the most recent development in the evolution of the Bombardier aircraft, and the advanced successor to the Dash 8/Q-Series family of aircraft. With enhanced cabin environment, including new ceiling panels, dished window sidewalls and larger overhead luggage bins capable of accommodating roller bags, the aircraft spells comfort for the passengers.

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Spice special

After starting numerous flights across the country, SpiceJet recently started services to Port Blair, its latest destination

The induction of these turboprop aircraft has changed the way people travel in Tier-II and Tier - III cities. Corporate and business travellers can now take morning flights to another city, attend to their work and fly back home in the evening. In a time when people are getting ‘money rich and time poor’, these short haul flights are changing the lifestyle of many Indians. It is like opening up new options before the travellers.

Places like Tuticorin, Trichy, Nanded, Surat and Port Blair are few of the latest additions to the network and are doing exceptionally well.

Service to Surat, the diamond city of India was started on the basis of passenger requests and flights from Mumbai and Delhi are reporting almost fully occupied.

In the first phase of the Q-400 operations, the airline had connected Hyderabad to 12 popular tier-II and tier-III destinations like Aurangabad, Bhopal, Goa, Indore, Madurai, Mangalore, Pune, Rajahmundry, Tirupati, Trivandrum and Vijayawada.

Expansion galore Even at a time when the aviation industry in India is going through tough times with high ATF (aviation turbine fuel) price and many airlines

Enviable

journey

the-art e state-ofAcquiring thr Q400. l Bombardie ternationa ny more in a m d d a Set to s. rk. destination the netwo all cities to sm y n a m Adding

30 June 2012

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are finding it tough to stay afloat, SpiceJet has gone ahead with many firsts. The airline will be the first to import ATF directly helping in cutting cost. Meanwhile, having turned to smaller cities, the airline has succeeded in remaining the passengers’ favourite. The Surat sector has received enormous response in the last few months.

SpiceJet has also started a Tirupati darshan package in collaboration with the Andhra Pradesh Tourism department which has gone well among many. Also with the inclusion of Bhopal and Indore into their network, SpiceJet has made inroads into Madhya Pradesh, the state known for wildlife and heritage sites. Flights to the island city of Port Blair were started on May 2. This has generated keen interest among tourists, as the connectivity to this island was not sufficient. With popular connections and great services, the airline has always succeeded in staying in the forefront.

Having added over 12-consistant destinations within a year, SpiceJet is now set to expand internationally. After Colombo and Kathmandu, SpiceJet is all set to fly to Hong Kong, Guangzhou, Male, Kabul, Dubai and Bangkok very soon. With this the airline will be making a strong presence in South East Asia and also in the Middle East. In the meantime, the airline has also constantly been increasing its fleet size with the induction of more Bombardier Q400s.

The seven-year journey for SpiceJet has been marked with expansions and betterment of services. The airline has always looked at offering best service at affordable prices and all their efforts has been met with equal enthusiasm and support from passengers.

The coming years promise to be as successful and continue to make Spicejet India’s most preferred carrier.

10 Colombo

Cover story

The list Ganesh V

Passed from Portugal to The Netherlands and finally to the British in the colonial era, modern Colombo is the capital of independent Sri Lanka, a bustling vibrant metropolis and a laidback beach town, with a flavour all its own.

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Colombo National Museum The true measure of a country can be had from a look at its past; its history, evolution and heritage. And there’s no better way to do that, than by visiting a museum. The Colombo National Museum is the main centre of the National Museum, the other two being in Kandy and Anuradhapura.

Housed in a very well-preserved building with sprawling lawns around it, the museum’s artifacts trace Lanka’s history right

from the time of ancient Ceylon. Episodes of valour, intrigue, romance come alive in these artefacts, which of course have been maintained well. My favourite section is the one devoted to Ceylon’s maritime history which is long and chequered. You will need a half day to cover the museum in leisurely fashion, though a quick tour can be done in two hours. Try to avoid visiting it on holidays, since it gets really crowded. A great way to fall in love with Sri Lanka.

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Above: Panorama of Galle City early in the morning; Bottom: Gangaramaya Temple is home to the gallery of Buddhist art

The bazaars of Fort and Pettah The bazaars (old-world markets) of any city are true barometers of the city’s culture and the way of life. Pulsing and throbbing with life, these bazaars offer a peek into the city’s psyche and tell you what makes the city tick.

The same goes for the bazaars of Colombo.

Situated around the Fort and Pettah areas near the Colombo railway station, they provide an interesting counterpoint to the modern highrises located close by. Shops, big and small can be found peddling a mind-boggling variety of wares. The nerve centre of Colombo, this district is best covered on foot. The main idea is not to buy something here (though you can,

Kandy is always buzzing with cultural events and tourists can easily get a slice of local life 34 June 2012

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if you want to. There is a lot on sale here. Just bargain hard), but just to stroll around taking in the palpable vibe. And while you are at it, sample some local delicacies from small eateries around the area.

Wolvendaal Church Just a hop, skip and jump away from the Pettah area of Colombo, this church is around 260 years old. It was considered to be the crown jewel of the Dutch Reformed Church in Ceylon. Built by the United Dutch East India Company, the Wolvendaal Church has probably been getting better with age. The age of the building combined with the props and artefacts give Wolvendaal an unmatched sense of history and atmosphere. On a quiet day, you could get the sexton of the church or the priest to show you around. And if you are interested, open up on the history of the Dutch Reformed Church.

You can look for the initials ‘IVSVG’ on the south-east gable of the church. They stand for the name of the Dutch Governor who built it.

Gangaramaya Temple The much-venerated place of worship for the

Buddhists and Hindus, its main attractions are the relics of the Buddha preserved here, and the gallery of Buddhist art. An interesting twist in the tale is that the relics preserved here were originally found in Bangladesh. They were released by Bangladesh at the special request of the Lankan Government. The art gallery in the temple complex traces the evolution of Buddhist art and counts among its possessions,

Cover story

Above: Vibrant colours of Kandy; Right: Sri Lanka is a Buddhist territory, so across the country you will find Buddhist Pagodas

murals, frescoes and other paintings of Ceylonian temples of yore. The spotlights illuminating the pieces create a superb effect.

The lake in the temple complex is a great place to sit in quiet contemplation. Except on festival days, the temple is cloaked in the soft quilt of silence.

Mount Lavinia Hotel If you accept a popular legend, you would be tempted to exclaim that Mount Lavinia Hotel is to Colombo what Taj Mahal is to India. Built by a British Governor of Ceylon in 1806, the sprawling mansion is rumoured to be dedicated to the lass who stole the Governor’s heart (and hence named after her). Seeing how beautiful the mansion, which today is a luxury heritage hotel, is you can’t help wondering at the beauty of the woman who fired the imagination of the Governor. With polished wooden floors, paneling in mahogany and clambered, large

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windows that open on to the sea and white columns, the hotel reminds us that good architecture is great art. Stop by to explore the nooks and crannies of this beautiful building and wade into a scrumptious meal by the sea.

leisurely hours here, looking at these beautiful winged creatures in the eye. And don’t forget to take that pair of binoculars and lunch along.

Talangama Wetlands

Another hidden gem, this. Even many of the locals do not know about it! A small Buddhist temple near the intersection of Havelock Road and Dickman’s Road in Colombo 5, this one takes you back in time. The original look and feel of the structure has been maintained; man’s wanton hand has been stayed. The temple complex houses a museum too, where richly carved antiques have been displayed.

Sri Lanka is known for its wildlife sanctuaries, but not much for marshlands and birding spots.

The Talangama Wetlands are therefore, a revelation! Definitely not on the radar of most tourists, this lush green area is a completely uncharted territory. According to estimates of ornithologists, this area teems with about 100 species of birds.

Apart from some species that permanently live there, a lot of migratory birds home-in on these wetlands with unfailing regularity every year. The Talangama Wetlands are a short drive from the city of Colombo. Plan to spend a few

Isipathanaramaya Buddhist Temple

Kandy connection Kandy, the last royal capital still exudes the charm of yesteryears. Approximately 115 km from Colombo, one must make a visit to this cultural hub. The city is always buzzing with

Cover story

According to estimates, Talangama Wetlands teems with about 100 species of birds cultural events and tourists can easily get a slice of local life and their traditions. The Temple of the Tooth Relic, where Buddha’s tooth is kept is one of the most visited sites by Buddhist followers from around the world.

Glorious Galle About three hours drive from Colombo is the beautiful fort city of Galle. Built by the Dutch around the 16th century, the whole district reverberates with old world charm. With its natural harbour, National Maritime Museum, international stadium, church and temples, the place is worth a visit. From the Portuguese to

the British, the district had passed through different rulers, making it all the more fascinating.

Odel and House of Fashions For long, Sri Lanka has been the production house of several leading apparel brands across the world. As a result, Colombo boasts of a few stores where one can find high-quality apparel for a song (and a few bucks, that is). By far, the largest of these is the House of Fashions on Duplication Road (no, it’s not a typo). This three-storied store offers great deals on clothing for men, women and kids. However, if you are looking for high-fashion apparel and luxury brands, then Odel is the place to head to.

Odel has three stores in Colombo. Any selfrespecting taxi driver will know all these stores; so, getting there won’t be a problem. Retail therapy is the best way to end a holiday and spend all your remaining foreign currency.

SpiceJet flies to Colombo from Chennai. See schedule, page 172.

Above: Sandy pristine beaches of Colombo are sure to lure the traveller in you; Bottom: Dalada Maligawa in Kandy is an interesting place to visit 38 June 2012

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Fast track

hours in

Ahmedabad Anil Mulchandani

Known for its industrial growth and modern architecture, the city is replete with historical monuments, fine museums, traditional markets and interesting places to eat.

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Day 1

photos: dinesh shukla

Heritage walk Start your day with a good morning walk. At the Swaminarayan Temple, built in the 1800s, one can join the daily morning Ahmedabad Heritage walk. Guided by volunteers who take you through the labyrinthine lanes and narrow alleys of the 600-year-old walled city, walk into a Ram temple and a Jain temple. These temples are known for exquisite sculptures. Also visit the magnificent 15th century mausoleum of the Sultans of Gujarat called Badshah-ka-Hazira. At around 10 in the morning, you will come across morning activities at the bullion market, the opening of cloth and jewellery stores, and other market places. The walk ends at the spectacular Jama Masjid. Built in 1424, this mosque has a huge open marble-paved courtyard with a bathing pool at the centre and galleries with calligraphy on three sides. The 260 elegant pillars supporting the roof of the multi-domed prayer hall are profusely covered with carvings.

The zenana for woman is behind finely perforated stone screens above the main sanctuary.

Grab a bite Hungry after the long walk? The Chandra Vilas, near Jama Masjid has been around for more than a century and the owners take pride in telling you about the number of freedom activists, artists and writers who used to meet here during the Quit India Movement. Even Gandhiji and Sardar Patel are said to have been part of the Bhajiya Club that met near this eatery. This eatery has lost its historic grandeur and antique furniture to a fire but old-timers still swear by its food and the dal is legendary.

For breakfast, try the Gujarati favourite, fafda (fried dough fritters, which comes with a salad of chopped onions, fried green chilly and dried papaya, and dips including dal and chutneys) and jalebi, washed down with a cup of masala tea.

11:00 AM Shopping at Manek Chowk East of the mosque, the historic square called Manek Chowk is the entry point to the textile and jewellery markets. Walk down or take an autorikshaw to Dalgharwad for embroidered

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Fast track Track

Above: Ahmedabad is known for shopping for bandej, tie and dye and block printed fabric and Manek Chowk is one famous market; Bottom: Adlaj stepwell in the city

fabrics and Rani-no-Haziro which has a market selling block print fabrics and cotton dresses.

At Ratanpol, you will come across streets lined with shops and showrooms selling brilliantly coloured chaniya choli sets and kurtas, achkans and other ethic wear for men. You can shop for foods here as well – Kandoi Bhogilal Mulchand and Jayhind are iconic sweet shops here, and are known for sweets like kesar mohanthal.

There are many shops here that specialize in farsaans and traditional Gujarati snacks.

1:00 PM Kankaria Lake The Kankaria Lake was excavated by the Sultans of Gujarat in the 15th century and it has beautifully carved embankments with fine gateways, and an island garden called Nagina Wadi. A favourite area for recreation in eastern Ahmedabad from decades, the lake front has been re-developed into an excellent public area for wide-ranging activities. There is a pedestrian-only boulevard around the lake, a mini-train so that those travelling with kids could take for a round trip of the lakefront, a food court where hawkers have been resettled to serve their specialties but with more hygienic standards and cleaner surroundings, a tethered 44 June 2012

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hot-air balloon for a panoramic view, boating, and children’s amusements. If you are travelling with children, don’t miss the Kids City, an infotainment complex with mock versions of postal offices and a mini ice-cream factory.

7:00 PM

surprisingly exotic flavours and Asharfi’s kulfis. If you prefer to stick safe with brands, cross the road to find well known ice-cream eateries.

Day 2

8:00 aM

Dinner at Tomato’s

Gandhi Ashram

Head for Ahmedabad’s hip and happening CG Road. This road, together with nearby Law Garden area and Mithakali Six-Roads, has some of the city’s best known garment and jewelllery stores, designer boutiques and restaurants.

The iconic place on this road is Tomato’s, themed on the 1950s and ‘60s American Diner complete with gleaming chrome booths, chequered floors and props like juke boxes and bubble gum machines. The menu runs the gamut from Italian, Tex-Mex grills and Chinese to North Indian cuisine.

Start your day in the tranquil surroundings of the Gandhi Ashram, set by the River Sabarmati.

The Ashram complex is filled with neem and other trees planted by Gandhiji’s followers in the 1920s. The Gandhi Sangralaya here was designed by Charles Correa and its galleries offer an insight into the life and philosophies of Mahatma Gandhi. Hriday Kunj, Mahatma Gandhi’s home from 1917 to 1930 is located near the river and houses his simple belongings.

This is certainly one of the most moving monuments of the Father of the Nation. This was also the staging post for his famous Salt Satyagraha march from Ahmedabad to Dandi which broke the back of the Raj.

10:00 PM Late night ice-cream Along the other wall are a large number of street food vendors from hand-pushed carts selling chaats to ice-cream counters. Try Shankar’s ice-creams which include some

10:00 AM Calico Museum tour Even if you have some interest in textiles,

do not miss the Calico Museum of Textiles.

This is easily one of the most aesthetically pleasing museums in India, set in an old garden retreat of the Sarabhai family with botanical gardens, ornamental ponds and re-located havelis. The collection includes rich silks, shawls, sarees, sarongs, tie-dye and embroideries. The centre-piece is the huge tent, made for Shah Jahan, with exquisite kinkhab brocades, and the galleries housing royal wardrobes, Art lovers will enjoy seeing the pichwais, miniature paintings, illustrated Jain books and evocatively displayed temple cloths. There is a good museum shop as well.

12:00 PM Vintage world Auto World houses the collection of art connoisseur and car enthusiast, the late Pranlal Bhogilal, in a pretty private estate. The pavilions house a variety from the 1906 Mors Tourer to imposing 1940s and ‘50s American cars. What is specially worth seeing is the cars customised for the Maharajas and Nawabs. The collection includes coach-built Rolls Royce cars and a striking Hispano Suiza. The Hispano Suiza was customised for the Maharaja of Alwar’s tiger shooting trips with a detachable roof, spring-loaded guns in glass cabinets beside a rear door which could be easily removed and handed to the Maharaja when a tiger was sighted, bulletproof screens in various shades, and a warning bell in front.

The museum complex has a restaurant called Vintage Village where you can have authentic Gujarati thali. Turbaned and traditionally attired waiters keep coming with generous refills.

3:00 PM Adalaj stepwell A special feature of medieval architecture in Gujarat is the number of stepwells and tanks built on a magnificent scale by the rulers between the 11th-16th century. Some of these stepwells are architectural masterpieces, so rich in sculpture and detailing that they look like subterranean palaces. Among those near Ahmedabad is the Adalaj stepwell built by a queen named Ruda in the 16th century.

Walk down the stairway of this five-storey well to see the fine sculpture on the walls and supporting columns. The carvings are impressive in their quantity and quality. As you go lower, the air becomes cooler and you can picture the days when people must have gathered here not only to draw water but to rest in the cool surrounds of the well shaft.

8:00 PM Dine at Vishala village In 1978, an engineer named Surendra Patel created Vishalla, a village theme restaurant, and since then it has been Ahmedabad’s iconic place to try traditional foods with an ambience to match.

The gallery leading to the dining area goes through performing areas where puppeteers, musicians, dancers and village entertainers perform for diners.

You dine in thatched structures, sitting cross-legged on the floor (low stools called Bajots can be provided) before a wooden platform.

The dinner is served on a large ‘Sal’ leaf platter, and comprises a full meal of farsans (snacks), papad, seasonal vegetables, potatoes, dal, local breads made from millet, corn and wheat, khichdi or rice, kadhi and sweets. All this is accompanied by fresh country butter, lili chutney (corriander chutney), lasan chutney (garlic chutney), godh (jaggery) along with an assortment of farm fresh salad, served in terracotta bowls.

SpiceJet flies to Ahmedabad from many cities across the network.

See schedule, page 172.

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Changing trends

Shona Adhikari

The age old city of Kashi is taking baby steps towards modernity. From sarees to kurtis and modern cars, the city is changing shades; albeit slowly and perhaps reluctantly.

A

city with many names, Varanasi is also known for its many flavours.

It takes its name from the two tributaries Varuna and Asi which join the Ganges at this very place.

The city was known as Kashi or the ‘luminous one’ for being a centre of learning, literature art and culture. Most people travel to Varanasi on pilgrimage or perhaps to visit a city that continues to retain its eternal calm just like the river on whose banks it was built thousands of years ago.

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I had gone to Varanasi after a couple of decades and was delighted to stay at a hotel right next to the imposing fortress-like Bhonsle Palace and Ghat. From my room, I had a splendid view of the river as it curved its way to the new bridge, while motorized boats as well as smaller ones were being rowed by athletic looking boatmen.

There are nearly 100 ghats along the river, many of which were built when the Marathas ruled the area. Still reasonably well-maintained and spread along the river are properties belonging to the Holkars, Scindias, Bhonsles and

Peshwas. Most of these ghats are for bathing, as Hindus believe that a dip in the Ganges washes away one’s sins.

Aromatic aarti Invited to attend the sandhya arati, we set off at five in the evening and as we rowed along, more and more boats came alongside – all heading towards the Dasaswamedh Ghat, where the grand aarti is performed. In fact there were so many boats along the bank that one was unable to get close to the ghat. Under

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Clockwise from top right: Making of the world famous Benarasi paan at a street in Varanasi; Beautiful Benaras silk sarees are still popular; Sarnath, the Buddhist pilgrim site

Popular across the country are the delicious Langra mangoes that are here bright lights, the sound of clashing cymbals and conch shells gradually rising in crescendo, began this unique prayer ritual, perfectly synchronized and performed by more than 50 bare-bodied Brahmin priests. So vibrant and graceful were the movements that it was as entertaining as a classical ballet. Lasting for about 45 minutes, without a dull moment, the closing was like an anti-climax. As we rowed back in silence, we were still under the spell of this vigorous and unified homage to the gods.

By the day, the sight completely changes at Dasawamedh Ghat. It now had the look of a

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somewhat deserted bathing ghat with vendors selling chaat, channa and ice cream. I set off down the road to take in the sights of the city. Varanasi did not look very different to the ‘Benaras’ that I remembered. The streets were just as narrow and people were milling around going about their own business - eating at the roadside, shopping, arguing, loitering or trying their best to find a way through the crowds.

The noise level was high, but with a subtle difference from the noise of other cities - the distant sound of bhajans and temple bells could also be heard despite the usual sounds of traffic.

Modernization had definitely made inroads into Varanasi. The old shops now had glass frontages where show-windows sported mannequins.

But the real difference was the streets were full of teenagers – both boys and girls - sporting jeans and tea-shirts, dressed in just the same way as can be seen in other Indian cities. The displays in the shops were also in keeping with

time, as were the large hoardings promoting everything under the sun; from soaps to the latest cars and bikes. We can thus safely say that modernity had not totally missed Varanasi.

Myriad hues Legend has it that the city was founded by Lord Shiva several thousand years ago and that it stands on Shiva’s ‘Trishul’ or trident. While legends such as these, add to the mystique of the city, they also add credence to its reputation of being the oldest city in the world. During the time of Gautama Budha, Varanasi was the capital of the Kingdom of Kashi and in his memoirs, Chinese traveller Huen Tsang writes that the city was the ‘centre of religious and artistic pursuits’ and was spread 5 kms along the western bank of the river.

As I wandered around, I discovered that the roads were dug up in many places and it became apparent that new roads were being planned to divert traffic. Work was also on, to

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outfits and there is plenty of demand of this fabric all over India. Varanasi is also known for several small scale industries, such as the making of fine carpets and copperware. Also popular across the country are the delicious ‘Langra ‘ mangoes that grow in abundance in the area and the betel leaf or the ‘Banarasi paan’ are considered the ultimate among ‘paans’.

The ‘kamandalam’ or brass water pot carried by sadhus is also another very recognizable Varanasi product. The main shopping areas include the Chowk, Gyan Vapi, Vishwanath Gali, Thatheri Bazar, Lahurabir, Godoulia or Dashswamedh Gali and Golghar. In keeping with the demands of the modern world, the mall-culture has also reached Varanasi. Among the more popular are the JHV Mall in the Cantonment area and the IP Mall at Sigra.

Fine art and literature have traditionally flourished in Varanasi.

install a new drainage system to replace the old pipes that dated back to almost 100 years. The number of cycle rickshaws and cyclists appeared to have doubled and two-wheelers seemed to be the most popular mode of transport. But there are a significantly large number of the newer brands of cars on the roads. Many roads are now one-way thoroughfares for certain hours in the day, much to the discomfiture of those (like me) who were unaware of the traffic rules. But if one is to visit Varanasi one needs to be prepared for such ‘diversions’ that all add up to the chaotic charm and melee that are part of the city.

In earlier times, preparations for a Hindu wedding always meant a visit to equip the bride with a range of the finest Benaras silk sarees, including a red silk with a gold border for the marriage ceremony. I made it a point to check out what was being offered at some of the larger stores. While many styles seemed to have changed, the wedding saree still appears to be the most popular choice for this all-important occasion. The weaving of the famous Benaras sarees was traditionally done

by Muslim weavers on huge foot-powered looms, who passed on their craft from father to son. I discovered that the most expensive and elaborate Benaras sarees with zari embellishments, that were earlier woven with threads of pure gold, are now woven with gold-

wrapped silk yarn and sold at a much cheaper rate. With sarees becoming less popular in India, the saree weavers have dwindled to only about 30,000. Many have chosen to leave the city, while others have taken up more lucrative trades. However, the good news is that the brocaded fabric created on the looms, continues to be popular for kurtas and other

Many famous names have lived in this city, starting with Kabir, Ravidas and Tulsidas who wrote much of his Ram Charit Manas while he was based here. Musicians such as Omkarnath Thakur, Ravi Shankar, Bismillah Khan, Girija Devi and dancers like Sitara Devi. Gopi Krishna and Kishan Maharaj have also added to the cultural mix of the city. Festivals and all-night open music concerts to celebrate and preserve traditional styles of classical and folk culture, are annual events.

Must see

e to the r: Located clos Jantar Manta built in as w it , h Ghat Dashashwamed Jaipur. aja Jai Singh of 1737 by Mahar Fort lies : The Ramgarh Ramgarh Fort built in ranasi and was 14 km. from Va Balwant a aj y by Mahar the 18th centur s.

Singh of Banara Varanasi, ur drive from Sarnath: An ho his ve ga ha re Budd Sarnath is whe ples of ci in pr sic ba e th first sermon on area.

Buddhism and

SpiceJet flies to Varanasi from many cities across the network. See schedule, page 172.

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Marvellous

Mussoorie

Nitika Bajpayee

This summer, break loose from the humdrum city. Refresh yourself with a trip to the Queen of Hills, where a gamut of offerings awaits your arrival.

S

ummer is here, so is summer vacation. Where are you headed for holiday? That’s one typical question every child asks friends as schools break for summer vacation. During my school days, most of my classmates were either headed towards Shimla or Mussoorie.

Even after a decade, the scene has not changed much. This all season resort is one of the most sought after places in Uttarakhand, so don’t miss a chance to visit this resplendent hill town.

Natural escapade Though I didn’t get a chance to visit Mussoorie during my school days, I made sure Mussoorie

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does not miss from my list of holidays. Summers are harsh in Delhi, so it becomes an absolute necessity to head towards a hill destination. As it is those based in Delhi are likely to choose Uttarakhand for a weekend escape, so that was it. When the city mayhem gets to you, the best thing to do perhaps is getting away.

And you don’t need four to five days to reach cover Mussoorie, one day will suffice the whole purpose of getting away. With the same idea on my mind, I started my laidback sojourn.

After a five-hour journey, I disembarked the morning Shatabdi to reach Dehradun. From the picturesque hills of Mussoorie, the cascading Kempty Falls, a holiday in Mussoorie will take

you amid beautiful landscapes of Pauri region of Uttarakhand. On the way to this land of rolling hills, I noticed the city of Dehradun running on both my sides. As our car chugged in ahead towards Mussoorie, a thought about versatile author Ruskin Bond crossed my mind. Most of his books are set around Mussoorie and Dehra.

At Mussoorie, thick jungle dotted the winding ghat roads. Upon my arrival, I checked into my place of stay, the Royal Orchid Fort Resort, which is strategically located in the lap of nature offering picturesque bird’s eye view of the entire valley. What makes it stand apart from rest of the hotels the vicinity is the huge and spacious central courtyard overlooking the mesmerising

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Doon valley. Built like an ancient fort, the resort stops the time and takes you to an ancient era promising you both the delight of royalty as well as the leisure of home with its array of facilities.

Healing hills After a quick lunch, I ventured out to explore the Queen of Hills. To me it looked as if I am in some wonderland where nature highlighted itself in every step people take. As I stepped out of the hotel, I witnessed Mussoorie in full glory.

Spread over a vast carpet of lush surroundings coupled with rich flora, breathtaking views of lofty mountains and a town bustling with tourists, Mussoorie looked bejewelled with myriad colours of nature. My first pitstop was at Kempty Falls, where tourists and wayfarers experience a true slice of nature. To reach Kempty Falls, it took me about half an hour as it is some 15 km downhill. Snuggled in the hilly terrain the Kempty falls are stunningly beautiful.

The water gushes down from an altitude of 4,500 feet and splits further into five another cascades. At Kempty, the water falls from a height of 40 feet giving the appearance of water jumping and playing on the rocks before falling down. The placed derives its name from ‘Camp

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tea’ as the erstwhile British organised their tea parties at this resort. After having a quick date with nature, I was again on the go, this time behind the steering wheel. Driving on the winding ghat road is one of the most sought after pleasures that drives city people to the hill destinations. On my way to Lal Tibba, the spectacular panorama of Mussoorie unfolded before my eyes.

Red Hill or Lal Tibba reminded of the latest Tata Nano television commercial in which a couple of college goers drive the small bundle to Laal Tibba to have chai. Now, even I was craving to have some ginger tea. Lal Tibba is the highest point in Mussoorie. But since Indian armed forces are stationed here, access is restricted.

And there’s no reason to worry as you can do all the sightseeing through the lens of an old tower standing on the edges of a cliff here.

By the time I was done with sightseeing, the chauffeur told me to return as this place is not great in inclement weather. It was about to rain.

Rain heavy dark clouds appeared from nowhere adding beauty to the whole setting. The evening was spent well, back in the comforts of my room at the fort resort.

Perfect weather Next morning, I woke up to see a thick blanket of fog wishing me good morning from the window of my room. I watched the vast expanse of virgin forest and verdant step farms separated from the trees falling in line, the beautiful landscape adorned with dew drops. Standing with a cup of tea in my hand, I watched the tranquil location.Later, I charted out agenda for the day. After breakfast, I took a 6 km downhill trek to reach the surreal Jharipani Falls. The 30-minute-walk took me

ssoorie Mighty Mu

Mussoorie is a How to Reach: om New Delhi.

6 hour drive fr Indira arest airport is Airport: The ne w Delhi. ional Airport, Ne Gandhi Internat all season ussoorie is an Best season: M ths are monsoon mon resort, though best avoided.

Spice halt

from the market crossing Sr George’s Boarding School. Jharipani falls is another beautiful place in Mussoorie and is ideal for day picnics. For nature and adventure lovers, the walking and trekking trails around the area come as bonus.

The area is surrounded by exotic varieties of flowers creepers and shrubs, ideal setting for those on honeymoon.

My next stop was at Gun Hill, which is situated at a height of about 400 feet above the famous Mall of Mussoorie. A ropeway ride took me to the Gun Hill. If you are an adventure enthusiast, you can take the bridle path splitting out from the Mall. In the ropeway car I tried capturing the photogenic colours of Mussoorie. People say from Gun Hill, a canon was fired every afternoon to help people know the time and adjust their watches. Beautiful views of the valley conjure up in eyes at Gun Hill. The striking beauty of the place made me update my status message and post a couple of pictures on Facebook, just to make friends jealous! No one can actually leaves Mussoorie without shopping and eating at ‘the Mall’. Situated in the heart of the hill town the Mall is like the lifeline of Mussoorie. A wall through the mall transports

Glittering in dark, view of Mussoorie from Royal Orchid Fort Resort

you to the bygone colonial era. Seeing rows of benches and lamp posts lined up, walking or simply sitting in the Mall is an enchanting experience. Here, you can see the old world video game parlours, skating rinks, the famous Methodist Church. Fans of Ruskin Bond like me should visit the Cambridge Bookstore, where he is often seen. I shopped and ate to my heart’s content and moved to my hotel for a good night sleep. Bidding the city goodbye,

Araku: natural wonderland

I called a friend to tell her about my sojourn.

Mussoorie is an ideal summer getaway. The long wooded slopes, cool weather, fantastic view of lofty Himalayas, caressing breeze makes Mussoorie a perfect destination for a relaxed holiday.

SpiceJet flies to Delhi from many cities across the network. See schedule, page 172.

ADVERTORIAL

Araku is one of the most important tourist destination in Andhra Pradesh. It’s a pleasant hill station with scenic gardens, green valleys, waterfalls and streams.

Just 112 km from Visakhapatnam, the journey to Araku valley on the Eastern Ghats with thick forest on either sides is an exploration in itself.

3200 ft above the sea level, the climate here will make your trip worth every effort. At the Tribal Museum, one can take a peek into the lifestyle of the aboriginal tribes living here keeping their tradition and culture alive. About 19 tribes inhabit this area. Sway to the beats of the Dhimsa dance, an age-old folk dance normally performed during ‘Itikala Pongal’ is now offered in tourist’s packages every day.

Chaaparai is a picnic spot 15 km from Araku.

The pleasures of this perennial stream running over huge rocks through the scenic valleys of Araku are a delight to the senses. Several view points and Pagodas have also added more beauty to this place.

On the way to Araku Valley, 90 km from Vizag, Borra Caves house spectacular, million-year-old

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Tyda is a small village nestling in the wooded hills of the Eastern Ghats, on the way to Araku from Vizag. Tyda is located 75 kms from Vizag.

This place is a natural bounty of flora and fauna, It is now home to an enchanting date with untouched nature. AP Tourism department in association with the Department of Forests established the Jungle Bells Nature Camp, an Eco-Tourism Resort. stalactite and stalagmite formations, standing as a testimonial to its pristine glory and age woven into intricate design through the centuries.

While the formations resembling mythological characters are an added attraction, illumination of the caves by AP Tourism turns the naturally sculpted glory into a grand visual feast. The 300 ft. thick roofed Borra caves spread over one square km, presenting a mind-boggling and breath-taking display of naturally sculpted splendor. This is truly worth seeing.

Ananthagiri is located at the highest altitude place in Andhra Pradesh. Located on the way to Araku Valley, the entire village is surrounded by coffee plantations, giving you a pleasant feel of nature’s beauty. Several waterfalls, adorn the hillocks around the Village. Wake up and smell the coffee. Andhra Pradesh Tourism Development Corporation has luxurious properties at Araku and Anthagiri and Log Hut accommodation at Tyda. For further details and online booking please visit ww.aptdc.in

Spice option

Beach paradise

Manoj Kumar

If you have been comteplating on the holiday options this summer, we suggest break loose at Varkala, a beach town situated close to the beautiful city of Calicut.

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S

un, sea and sand are synonymous with Kerala, the state where a discerning traveller finds all his choices. Options are never less in Kerala, especially region around Calicut and Trivandrum. From untouched beaches to beautiful churches, gushing rivers to waterfalls, this region is abundant with nature’s bounty. On my latest tryst with this land of beautiful offerings, I got a chance to witness the pictuesque wonder, the famous Varkala town.

Lying in the coastal region of Kerala, in the Trivandrum district, Varkala is where hills along with pristine sea greet you. Home to natural fishers and springs, Varkala is one of the most

visited destinations in the circuit. The beaches here are relatively untouched and clean as well.

One of the main beaches located in Varkala is the Papanasam Beach, which stands close to the Janardhana Swamy Temple. This temple is more than 2000 year old and is one of the attractions of the place. The temple is home to an old bell that was taken from an ancient shipwreck of a Dutch freighter.

and the sand gradually loomed before me. I was at the brink of a precipice which offers a stunning prospect of sea,sand and surf. Seeing the beautiful sight, finally realization dawned on me - I was at Varkala, a beach retreat just 178 km from Calicut and 50 km from Trivandrum.

It seems the whole town is spread over this escarpment which drops dramatically to beautiful beaches.

God’s abode

After sinking in the beauty, I made my way back to my place of stay. I wanted to tootle around this town and decided to commence it on a religious note. Janardhanaswamy temple, one of the most celebrated shrines of Lord Vishnu

Like always, I interacted with a couple of local natives, just to know about the place. An old man pointed his finger towards the horizon. I walked rapidly to have a glimpse. The vast sea

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Spice option

Above: Lokanaar Kaavu temple in Calicut is an interesting place to visit; Right: Varkala is synonymous to sandy beaches and the beautiful Janardhanaswamy temple

in Kerala, located on an upland, not far away from the beach and can be reached by a flight of steps. Blessed are those who visit Kerala temples in the evening. The flickering lamps around the walls of the Janardhanaswamy temple, deities illuminated by soft glowing oily lamps, cool breeze,young women clad in white saris (with golden border) will fill your heart with peace. The temple is said to be around 2000 years old and has ancient brass bells that were gifted by an mariner. It has also a beautiful tank in the vicinity.

Beach watch

Varkala is inextricably linked in the popular Indian imagination with the philosopher, poet and social performer Shri Narayana Guru who founded an ashram, Sivagiri Mutt on a terraced hill near the town. It has the mausoleum of the ‘Nanoo Swami’, a man much ahead of his times, the saint who promulgated the theory of ‘One caste, one God and one religion’. The 200 acre premises also houses an old residence of the Guru and a bookshop.

Unlike Kovalam, the shops are lined on the cliff top and hence we remain undisturbed.

The mighty arc shaped palisades appear most beautiful when the scarlet glow from the sun turns them crimson thus creating a dreamscape.

The blend of the cliffs, brown sand and the sea makes the beach an astounding sight. Steps carved out of the cliff face make for a steep but spectacular climb to the top of the plateau.

Thiruvambadi beach is a petite beauty. It is small but picturesque. The shore is lined by a frond of swaying palm and coconut trees that offer shade and beauty which is unique to Kerala. An excellent location for movie moghuls and those who love serenity.

g Gettin

:

there

178 km alicut is C : ir A By rkala. from Va om the 5 km fr 5 t s ju is Varkala port. rum air d n a iv r T

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Backed by red laterite cliffs and soaked by rolling waves off the Arabian Sea, the shoreline is impressively scenic and the beach relatively relaxing. The attractive white sand Papanasham beach lying in a cove between the North and South cliffs has long been associated with ancestor worship. People come in hordes during Karkkadavavu ( in the month of August) to pay respects for their progenitors. It is a pleasure to saunter on this beach sands in the eventide.

Again from Thiruvambadi we ascend to the north side of the cliff. Bamboo and palm - thatch cafes, restaurants and souvenir shops jostle for space here. In this cluster, we see a small board ‘Varkala Cultural Centre’. Out of curiosity and interest I entered inside. It housed a thatched

hut where Kathakali performances are held daily in the evenings. Not only is it a live programme which can be viewed at close quarters but even the make up is done before your very own eyes!

Bask in the sun The best view of the beach can be had from the North cliff only. I walked on the promenade at the edge of the cliff towards our hotel. All types of sea food are on display and there is no need to visit an aquarium. Most of the establishments overloook the sea and have two levels. There is nothing much to do in Varkala. Soak in the natural beauty.Watch with awe the the rock formtion which is even certified by Geological Survey of India as unique.

Kappil Beach, 8 km from Varkala also is a nice place where you can visit. The beach has a breathtaking ambience. It is an estuary where the river meets the sea. The road leading to the beach mesmerises us. Coast on one side and the palm fringed backwaters on the other will bring out the poet in you. Overall, Varkala is an ideal spot for quiet laidback holiday. It is fastly growing as a suitable alternative to the congested, expensive and much hyped other beaches.

SpiceJet flies to Calicut from many cities across the network. See schedule, page 172.

Spice travel

wave

Riding the

Pallavi Singh

People from all over the country brave the prevalent warm weather to indulge in festivities. Let’s take you on a round of festivals that will sweep you off your feet this month…

I

f you haven’t as yet been to a film festival you must go to this one for sure. More so, because this is a real ‘high altitude’ festival. To be held at 13,500 ft above the sea level, the first edition of the Ladakh International Film Festival, LIFF, promises to delight cinema aficionados from around the world and lure them to visit and experience the best of world cinema in the magical environs of Ladakh. Chaired by Shyam Benegal, LIFF patrons include senior film professionals and young, enthusiastic cine lovers and is supported by prominent luminaries from the film fraternity. LIFF is divided into various sections such as Indian, International Section including best of world cinema, Competition Section which includes short films, animation films, documentaries and feature films and a Ladakh section open only to citizens of Ladakh and films made on Ladakh. Apart from the entertainment aspect, the film extravaganza will incorporate Film Shoppé, workshops and Green Carpet Premieré.

When: June 15-17 Where: Leh

Ladakh International Film Festival

Jagannath rath yatra

At the first go when someone says Orissa, the mind immediately conjures up images of the famous Sun Temple at Konark and the Jagannath Yatra. The 10-day Rath Yatra festival is based around the worship of Lord Jagannath,a reincarnation of Lords Vishnu and Krishna. The exuberant festival commemorates Lord Jagannath’s annual visit to his aunt’s home, along with his elder brother Balabhadra and sister Subhadra. The three of them travel to their aunt’s Gundicha Temple a short distance away, where they remain for seven days before returning. The main festivities occur on the first day when the deities are bathed, dressed and are transported on the towering chariots, which have been made to resemble temples, giving the festival its name of Rath Yatra - the Chariot Festival. Around one million pilgrims flock to this colourful event. Every year, three huge new chariots are made for the festival.

When: June 21 Where: Puri, Orissa

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Spice travel

Mahankali jatra

Mahankali Jatra or Bonalu is a festival celebrated in the twin cities of Hyderabad and Secunderabad in Andhra Pradesh. Dedicated to Mother Goddess Adi Shakti, it is celebrated to ward off evil and the epidemics in the surrounding region. Mahankali Jatra began in the year 1869 after a deadly plague took many lives. The people thought that Goddess Shakti’s anger had caused the plague so they started offering food to pacify her and ward off the evil. Mahankali Jatra is a month-long event celebrated during the month of Ashadh. It goes on for two days, and on every Sunday throughout the month, the festival is celebrated in different areas of the city. The carnival atmosphere sets in, encouraging people to offer their prayers to the Goddess and enjoy themselves. At dawn, thousands of women adorned in colourful saris carry Bonalu – an earthen pot filled with cooked rice, jaggery, curd and water to offer to the Goddess.

When: June 24 Where: Hyderabad, Secunderabad

Ajmer Urs festival

The largest Muslim fair in India, the annual Urs of the Sufi saint Khwaja Moinuddin Chishti is held at the dargah of the saint in Ajmer, Rajasthan. The Urs (the death anniversary of the saint) is an occasion for a massive pilgrimage, with thousands of devotees flocking to the dargah. The Urs celebrations continue for six days, commencing with the hoisting of a white flag on the tomb by the Sajdanashin (successor-representative) of the Chishtia order.

Over the days which follow, the tomb is ritually anointed with rose water and sandalwood paste; qawwalis are sung and poetry recited in praise of the Almighty, prayers are said, and devotees offer nazranas or votive offerings.

Outside the dargah precincts, two massive cauldrons cook sweet rice garnished with dry fruits and condiments to be served as tabarukh or sanctified food. Flowers, embroidered prayer rugs, prayer caps and decorative chadars are among the many things to be found in the bazaar, apart from the usual souvenirs which make their way to fairs such as this.

When: June 4 Where: Dargah Sharif at Ajmer, Rajasthan

SpiceJet flies to Jammu, Kolkata, Hyderabad and Jaipur from many cities across the network. See schedule, page 172.

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CHAOS, dealt with.

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Spice pick

Shop hopping Father’s Day is round the corner! Give the most important man in your life, a small token of love...

Gifting love

Travel companion

Style statement

Father’s Day is a wonderful opportunity to bask in the glow of your family’s love and appreciation. Bar accessories from @home that includes a wide range of shakers, flasks, coasters, drink dispensers is a perfect gift.

A classic companion to overnight journeys as well as daytime expeditions, Holdall has been long used to hold all what is needed. Made with finest genuine leather, heavy metal clasps, buckles and hinges, the inner compartments feel equally plush.

Price: ` 800 onwards Availability: All @home stores in Mumbai, Pune, Surat, Bangalore and other cities.

Price: `14,400 onwards Available: Exclusively at Boutique 5, The Eros Hilton, New Delhi

Price: ` 5,000 onwards Available: All Diwan Saheb stores across the country.

Love for writing

Time machine

Groove now

Rado True Thinline is the new member to the thinnest ceramic watch collection. With a limited production of only 1000 pieces, this new addition presents itself in the ultra-light ceramic of the future, nitrure de silicium.

Inspired by the global style of footwear, Globalite presents Groove for men, an innovative product that makes your feet feel casual even in formal attire. Groove all day in style with casual slip-ons for men by Globalite.

Price: `1,00,000 onwards Available: All Rado boutiques across the country

Price: ` 699 onwards Available: Leading stores across the country

Luxury brand Cruiser launched an elite league of limited edition pens known as the ‘Inspiration collection’. The elegant pens are beautifully crafted visually appealing, a must have for any pen connoisseur.

Price: ` 57,000 onwards Available: All Linc stores across the country.

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This Father’s Day, gift your father the checkered suit from the summer collection

by Diwan Saheb. Made of Seer Sucker cotton that keeps you cool in this peak Indian summer weather, the suit does not crush, so ideal for a full day’s comfort!

Spice pick

Get that look

Perfect look

Flaunt that style

Price: `2999 Available: Across all UCB outlets in the country

Price: `7000 onwards Available: Leading stores across the country.

Price: `2000 onwards Available: Leading stores in the country.

Summer is in. Give yourself a fresh look with Schiffli and Sleeveless Classic Shift dresses

by United Colours of Benetton. The brand also has a great collection of bags and shoes, especially for sweltering summers.

Be inspired by the latest fashion trends.

The Still Ufficio Stampa from fashion brand Sisley is a perfect bag that will go with whatever you choose to wear this season.

ASB: Making a difference

Floral prints remain the most popular style till date. Flaunt your feminine side to the world with the Gulabbo summer 2012 collection

by Fusion Beats. Unlike traditional wear, it is sleek, chic and modern without appearing dull and boring.

ADVERTORIAL

The Asian School of Business creates informed and inspired professionals. The institute’s AICTE-approved program aims to mould world-class management professionals with leadership skills.

Faculty, the Key Differentiator

Governing Board: The Essence of Professional Aristocracy

ASB enjoys the benefit of guidance from a Board of Governors, comprising professionals and academics, with impeccable credentials, both in India and abroad. They include Dr. S. Ramadorai, former CEO of TCS and currently Advisor to the Prime Minister; Professor Samuel Paul, former Director, IIM-A and Advisor to the World Bank; Professor Prakash Apte, former Director IIM-B; Mr. Arun Kumar, Board Member, KPMG, California; Mr. George M. Thomas, Patron, ASB; Mr. Vijaya Raghavan, Founder-CEO, Technopark.

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ASB’s autonomy empowers it to be truly innovative. The faculty has complete freedom to pick and choose the best content and teaching methods. In February 2012, DNA & Stars of Industry Group honored ASB with an award for “B-Schools who innovate in Teaching Methodology”. ASB has a robust mix of faculty and practicing professionals, together providing a unique combination of academic and practical learning. Several of the full-time faculties are from IIM-A, each with over 30 years of professional experience in business and academics. The Director, Prof. S. Rajeev, from the Stanford Business School, has over 30 years of experience in USA and in India, including at IIM-B, IIM-A and IIM-K.

The academic programs

The most important program is the two-year, full-time residential Post Graduate Diploma in Management (PGDM). This course has been designed by a team of experts. The depth and breadth of coverage of the curriculum for PGDM, providing a firm general management foundation, is as good as the best management education anywhere in the world. Other

programs include short term Management Development Programs and those tailor-made to the requirements of specific companies.In July 2011, Business Digest recognized ASB as No. 2 among private business schools in Kerala.

Participatory Learning

At ASB, management is not taught but learnt. ASB’s unique process of delivering the curriculum is based on participatory learning.

The faculty plays the role of a facilitator, a guide, a coach, making them more than just a teacher.

Case studies, simulations, role-plays, group projects and presentation by students add to the excitement of learning at ASB. Technology is a close ally in this process. Dedicated wireless connectivity within the campus helps the students in accessing the course-ware and the Web on their laptops.

Placement of MEI Alumni

ASB’s placement list includes KPMG, Ernst & Young, HP Global, HDFC, ICICI Bank, IBS, SunTec, UST Global, Kotak Mahindra Bank, PWC, TCS, Accenture, Forbes Marshall, Cancor, Bluestar and Feedback Consulting.

Ajay Kumar Garg Engineering College RECIPIENT OF THE ACADEMIC EXCELLENCE AWARD FOR “BEST ENGINEERING COLLEGE IN UPTU” FOR THE SECOND SUCCESSIVE YEAR programs to make its students globally competitive. During the year 2010-11, AKGEC has the distinction of having 13 of its students in the University merit lists including gold medalists in all the four B.Tech branch groups being run in the college.

During the year over 600 students have been placed in reputed companies like Infosys, Wipro, MAQ Software, DELL Perot, Cummins India, Birla Soft, Lohia Group, Syntel, NIIT etc.

AKGEC being awarded Academic Excellence Trophy for “Best Engineering College in UPTU” by HE, the Governer of Uttar Pradesh for the Second Successive Year

Ajay Kumar Garg Engineering College (AKGEC), Ghaziabad is approved by AICTE and affiliated to U.P. State Technical University, MTU. The college was established in 1998 and offers B.Tech Courses in seven disciplines of Engineering. The college also offers postgraduate courses in Computer Application (MCA) and M.Tech in five engineering disciplines.

The college is accredited by NBA and certified for ISO 90012008 by BSI, U.K. AKGEC had excellent infrastructure with state-of-the-art laboratories, computing facilities, automated library with e-journals, interactive satellite (EDUSAT) terminal, modern well furnished hostels for 1200 students and faculty residences on its wi-fi enabled 40 acres campus.

The college also has highly qualified and experienced faculty lead by its Director, Dr R.K. Agarwal, who is an alumnus of IIT Kanpur, CIT, UK and IISc Bangalore with vast teaching, research and administrative experience.

The college has been consistently maintaining excellent results and conducts a number of industrially relevant

The college has the distinction of being the only Engineering College in the state of U.P. to have received approval from Department of Science and Technology (DST), Government of India, for establishment of Centre of Relevance and Excellence (CORE) in the field of Automation & Robotics. The college has also set up India's first Industrial Robotic Training Centre in collaboration with Kuka Robotics of Germany. The college is also the first institution in U.P. to establish a virtual lab for remote experimentation in collaboration with IIT, Delhi. The college has also established a LabVIEW Academy in collaboration with National Instruments, for conducting industrially relevant training programmes in “Data Acquisition & Control, Embedded System and Mechatronics".

AKGEC believes in setting audacious goals and infusing fresh ideas to achieve the same. The college plans to expand its existing M.Tech programmes and promote collaborative industry relevant projects, R&D and consultancy to raise the overall academic standard as well as to bridge the gap between academic curriculum and i n d u s t r y requirements to make its students globally competitive.

Dr. R.K. Agarwal, Director

www.akgec.org

Spice trail

Too sweet to be sour

Sayanti Banerjee

Tamarind, a name synonymous to tangy chutneys, is a versatile tropical fruit that everyone can relish.

J

ust when you think tamarind, your mouth literally starts watering. Well, such is the effect of this spice that can be both sweet and tangy at the same time.

Deliciously pulpy

Each SpiceJet aircraft has been named after a particular spice. In the section ‘Spice Trail’, we bring you the history and usage of each of these spices.

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Ideal for the Indian palate, this tropical fruit is a household ingredient that forms a part of various home-made recipes. Tamarind is one of the most widely distributed spices across the world and what makes it special is the unique taste that is liked by people across the globe.

It is believed that as far as the origin of tamarind is concerned, it is native of Africa with statistics showing wild growth of tama-

rind trees throughout Sudan. But with the popularity of tamarind across India and more interestingly, the date-like appearance of the fruit’s dried pulp, it is also referred to as the ‘Indian date’ by many. Also, imli is the Hindi name that is most popular in our part of the world, while the English name ‘tamarind’ varies from tamarindo in Spanish and Portuguese, tamarinier desIndes in French, in Dutch and in German it is tamarinde, in Italian it is tamarandizio and the list goes on. Infact, what is more interesting is that this fruit was popular among the ancient Egyptians and the Greeks as well, dating back to the 4th Century B.C. This tropical tree is known to grow across a great variety of soils from deep alluvial to the rocky, porous, limestone

Helpline No +91- 9816222000 +91- 9916222000 +91- 1772620074

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Wi-Fi Campus

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Spice trail

Ingredients: • 3 cups Rice • 100 gms Tamarind • 1/4 cup Chana dal (soaked) • 1 tsp Urad Dal (soaked) • 1/4 cup Peanuts • 2 tsp Turmeric • 2 tbsp Mustard seeds • 1 tsp Jeera • 1 tsp Hing • 1 small bunch of Curry leaves • 5 Red chilies • 2 Green chilies • 1/2cup Oil • Salt to taste

Method:

Tamarind rice

for instance. If that is not enough, the tamarind tree can actually be planted near the sea shore too as it withstands salty spray and high wind.

Medicinal properties As far as the medicinal properties are concerned, the pulp of the tamarind fruit is believed to be rich in minerals and vitamins for instance - calcium, phosphorus, iron, thiamine, riboflavin and is also a good source of niacin. The ascorbic acid content is usually not that high apart from what is found in the peel of young green fruits. The pulp of this tropical fruit is also considered to be very effective for facilitating the digestion process.

• To begin with, soak tamarind in water and then extract the thick paste out of it.

• Next, take a frying pan, add the tamarind extract, salt,turmeric

Some of the other medicinal uses of tamarind are to provide remedy for bad digestion, stomach pain and bile disorders, to cure inflammations, to sooth sore throat, recover from alcoholic intoxication to mention a few.

Also the tamarind leaves and flowers can be dried or boiled to treat swollen joints, sprains and boils. Based on its antiseptic properties, there are lotions and extracts made from the pulp of tamarind, as home-remedy to cure conjunctivitis.

The fruit extracts are also useful in treatments of dysentery, jaundice, erysipelas, hemorrhoids and

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and stir the mixture to create a thick paste out of it.

• Boil the rice and dal in a separate vessel and drain the starch and leave it to cool when it gets prepared.

• In an open vessel fry onions, add curry leaves, ginger and green chillies. Once they turn a bit golden brown, fry the rice and dal mixture in it.

• Finally pour in the tamarind mixture and let the preparation cook for 5 minutes.

• Take off the vessel from the oven only when you get a nice spicy and tangy smell, and your tamarind rice is ready to serve.

many such ailments. In fact, the pulp is believed to heal the senses and restore the patients suffering from paralysis. From more materialistic point of view, wet tamarind can actually bring back the shine on silver and gold ornaments easily as a natural polish making them look a million bucks!

Bit of magic Well, interesting associations, myths and superstitions are so common in India. One of the most common one as far as tamarind is concerned is – a woman craving for this tangy fruit got to be showing the first signs of pregnancy even before any litmus tests can justify the same. Also, as far as the global scenario is concerned, while taking a nap under a tamarind tree is considered unlucky by some, a set of African tribes actually worship tamarind tree as highly sacred and some of the Burmese people hail the tree to be the abode of the rain gods.

So there is no end to the possibilities of exploring the tamarind saga.

Spice platter

Summer quenchers

Pallavi Singh

As the mercury soars high, we bring you some refreshing ideas that will help you stay cool and healthy this summer.

A

ha! Summer’s here and finally time for vacation.But its not just children, summers are something which are awaited even by adults because it is that time of the year when most of us generally plan a vacation to a hill town or anywhere else, to help add that feel good factor to our lives! I am sure you would agree. However, till you are at home, stay cool with delicacies like sweet lassi, chaach, thandai, aam panna, rasna, mango shake, fruit drinks down to the modest nimbu paani to counter the warm winds. The weather certainly is a

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dampener but cool drinks like the sherbet, a refreshing drink from the days of yore helps to restore all your lost energy leaving you feeling refreshed and ready to take on the world.

Last but not the least how can you forget that mangoes, the king of fruits, make its appearance only in summers.

Whoever said summer is bad? Now that we are at it, let’s take a culinary journey across recipes dished out by some of the top chefs that will give a new zest and renewed freshness to your long-drawn summer days.

Spice platter

Ingredients

Green tea: 1/2 cup Apple: 1 cup apple, skin removed and cut into chunks Lemon: 3-4 wedges Mint leaves: 6-10 Lemonade: To taste Ice: To taste

Method:

Take the apple chunks, lemon wedges and mint leaves into shaker.

Muddle all the ingredients.

Put some crushed ice.

Pour green tea and top it up with lemonade.

Serve chilled and refreshing.

Recipe courtesy: Blend, Taj Club House, Chennai

Mint Chaas

Ingredients

Curd: 1 kg Mint: 10 gms Cumin: 3 gms Black Salt: To taste Coriander leaves: 50 gms

Method

Roast cumin seed and crush.

To a big bowl, add crushed cumin seeds along with finely chopped mint.

Add all the ingredients together.

Add some water and mix well and put it in refrigerator for half an hour.

The drink is ready to serve Recipe courtesy: Hilton, New Delhi/ Janakpuri

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Spice platter

Ginger Punch Ingredients:

15 gms chopped ginger 15 gms lemon grass 180 ml soda

Method:

Boil the ginger and lemon grass, leave it to chill.

Once cooled down add in the Collins glass with a top up of soda.

Garnish with a lemon wheel.

Photos: Jyoti Kapoor

Kiwi Delight

Ingredients:

1 Fresh kiwi 8-10 Mint leaves 15 ml Lemon juice 15 ml Coconut syrup 15gms fresh pineapple 180 ml chilled pineapple juice

Method:

Muddle Kiwi and Pineapple with mint leaves.

Shake it with lemon juice and sugar Syrup top it up with Sprite.

Garnish with Fresh Kiwi Recipe courtesy: Tapas, Jaypee Vasant Continental, New Delhi

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Recipe courtesy: Tapas, Jaypee Vasant Continental, New Delhi

Spice platter

Happy brunching!

Sayanti BANERJEE

Sundays are meant to be lazy and we bring you options where you can miss your breakfast, get lazy and enjoy eating out.

L

eading a modern life is all about living from weekend to weekend.

Being able to sit down with family and dear ones over a nice meal is now a treat in itself. And given the fact that our lifestyle is becoming quite international, the concept of ‘brunch’ which is a happy amalgamation of breakfast and lunch, is ruling the roost and how?

For food aficionados Breakfast used to be the first meal of the day but with weekend mornings getting lazier by the time one wakes up, the body craves for lunch. So heading for a big spread of food seems ideal when you have a big appetite to satisfy. You can binge on starters, soups, salads, main course, chef specials from live stations and

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desserts. The choices seem unlimited and you can sit around for hours on end, indulging your taste buds. Speaking on the concept of ‘Sunday Brunch’ at Corleone, InterContinental Marine Drive, executive chef Paul Kinny says, “Our Sunday Brunch is an iconic mash-up of breakfast favorites and unique lunch options. The most popular aspect of the brunch is definitely the live

counters for sushi, pasta and pizzas. The guests can choose from the finest ingredients and we prepare the dishes for them as per their taste and preference.” The best part is that now one can opt for a Pan-Asian brunch or a Lebanese, Italian or good old Indian one, according to their preference and explore more variety in the style of cuisine that they appreciate the most!

Spice platter

These days, people prefer chilling and catching up with family and friends over a nice brunch menu Unwind with food It is not always food that makes all the difference, since today’s lifestyle conscious clients prefer a good ambiance too. For some the idea is to chill, unwind and catch up with family and friends over a nice brunch menu. For many outlets like Shiro for instance, Sunday brunch becomes the ultimate private party zone! With some celebrity footfalls like Arjun Rampal, Malaika Arora Khan, cricketer Zaheer Khan and the likes, this high-end restobar is quite a happening place to be in, on a hot weekend afternoon.

Rahul Hajarnavis – executive brand chef, Shiro, observes, “Our brunches are fun because we

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do it in a unique style. Firstly, we put together all the signature dishes from a-la-carte menu and we prefer to serve the guests on the table hot from the kitchen. There is no buffet laid out as such apart from two live stations that we have one for salad and the other for Sushi Maki.

People seem to really enjoy that, as they do not have to constantly get up from the table and fill their plates. Even after the brunch gets done, our guests still hang around till the sundown.”

Innovative menu Those who prefer to eat less but indulge in only something that is exotic and the talk of the

town, still have a lot of options! Cuppa Joe is an all day breakfast place where you can order innovative coffees and shakes like Marshmallow Cafe Mocha, Cookiecinno or Butterbeer along with yummy sandwiches like Dijon Mustard Chicken Panini or Arabiatta Pasta for that matter.

Those with a sweet tooth can indulge in Carrot Cake and Ultimate Red Velvet too. Is that what people are looking for? Well, the response seems to be great in spite of being around for a month only.

Owners of Cuppa Joe, Vardhaman Choksi and Rushabh Choksi share, “With Cuppa Joe, we

Spice platter

Along with delicious brunch spread, hotels also offer recreational activities

aim to set an entirely new standard for coffee as well as establish a new trend when it comes to places where you can hang out. The fact that we serve all day breakfast is one of the prime reasons why our customers would keep coming back, since people are constantly on the look out for a place where they can grab their breakfast at any hour of the day.”

While innovative coffee and accompaniments make some happy when it comes to an all-day breakfast joint, there are those who enjoy wine and the quick snack concept more to satiate their appetite. Vinoteca by Sula is an exclusive Spanish Tapas and Pintxos bar that not only offers wine from different parts of the world, but also the Spanish-influenced Tapas and exotic appetizers. Chef Silvia Grimaldo explains, “While Tapas are small, Pintxos is Spanish for spike and refers to a small snack skewered onto a piece of bread. I love to interact with the guests who drop by and suggest them to try new things. Though some may be apprehensive initially about the first bite, they appreciate the food after they try.” So the well groomed, well

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travelled individuals can enjoy an international lifestyle even in India now, thanks to these interesting initiatives!

An excuse to getway Weekends are what we care for after a long, hardworking week so making them extra special is what is on our minds most of the times.

While the long drive fuels the apatite, the old school picnic mood makes one feel de-stressed naturally. Not too far away from Mumbai is Nashik and a drive with family to this abode of serene beauty is becoming a popular trend.

In order to make it a special experience and worth the effort of travelling that far, some of the restaurants and eateries are putting together unique food spreads. The Gateway Hotel, Ambad Nashik for instance, organizes a brunch based on the concept of ‘Family Day Out’. As an add on, the guests can enjoy leisurely activities such as swimming, table tennis, lawn tennis, basketball, volley ball. Food wise, there is an elaborate buffet spread at the restaurant that has five live food counters that includes everything from Chinese, Shawarma, Grills, Dosa, to Pasta. The Executive Chef Nitish Phani at The Gateway Nashik observes, “We try to change around the food spread and the activities that we organise for Sunday brunch according to the season. The response has been overwhelming as many we do have a lot of guests coming back to for more excitement.”

No matter what your calling is on a weekend, the idea is to have as much fun as possible with the people in your life who matter the most.

Food of course is a great way to bond for sure, so cheers to some happy brunching options!

Spice talk

Spirited

diva

Sayanti Banerjee

An actress, a filmmaker and a proud mother, Nandita Das dons many a hats. Known for her earthy charm, the actress tell us all about her life and family...

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Spice talk

I absolutely love travelling as it not only de-stresses me but also helps me connect well with my inner self

Daughter of a renowned painter, how come you took up acting and not painting?

My dad, Jatin Das is a renowned painter and everybody thought I would take up his profession. But, I feel the rebel in me (I was rebellious since childhood) wanted to do something different and more individualistic. For an art lover like me, acting and film making are still different forms of art.

So, does it mean that you never took an interest in paintings?

No, that’s not exactly what I would say. I rather love to observe a painter while he or she is at work. It is a really beautiful experience as I love watching my father while he worked on the canvas, since my childhood days.

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Do you enjoy travelling?

I absolutely love travelling, whether for work or leisure. It is not only de-stressing but also helps me to understand myself better.

Can you name few destinations that you would call your favourite?

Well like I said, I love travelling so I do not want to limit myself to any particular destination. For me the idea of travelling itself is very exciting, whether it is within our country or across the world. There is something about travelling, that gets me excited.

Where did you travel recently?

I visited Oman in Muscat recently for the 7th Annual Muscat International Film Festival.

Though it was more for work, I had my son

Vihaan for company, so it became all the more exciting.

Vihaan is an interesting name? How did you choose this very name for your child?

My one and a half year old son is named Vihaan. His name has been derived from the Sanskrit word meaning ‘the morning rays of the sun’; and of course he means the world to me!

Many people think that you are a Bengali from Kolkata. Is that true?

This is something that I often have to clarify.

I am not a Bengali but an Orriya. And, I was born in Delhi. But I do feel happy that Bengali people, who are known to appreciate art and culture, connect with me.

Spice talk

Man of steel Florina soren

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Known the world over for his magnificent creations, Subodh Gupta can create art even from cow dung cakes. Unveiling his latest metal creation in Delhi, he shares more on his philosophy and work.

Spice talk

This iconic stainless steel installation weighs around 26 tons. Will you tell us a little about the same?

Titled ‘ Line of Control’, it is 36 feet by 36 feet in size, and is perhaps one of the largest public art installations. Shaped liked a mushroom cloud, it is made of myriad steel utensils. From big plates and containers to steel ladles, it contains almost everything found in a kitchen.

How does it feel to bring home such a huge piece of work to India?

My latest installation has been showcased abroad and as always being an Indian one feels proud to be able to showcase my work among Indians. I must thank the Shiv Nadar Foundation for bringing it to the country.

Steel utensils have been your medium for a long time. Why do you choose this metal for your creations?

I love cooking and spent a lot of time in the kitchen. Also when I started my work around mid- and late-80s, I was very fascinated by the sheer shine of this metal. It also reminds me how, though in some households even if their steel utensil might be shining, it is possible that it could be empty. Similarly, my work too can have different meanings.

andpersand MAGAZINE

What do you think about art in public places? Did this impact the way you conceptualised this piece?

See when one starts working on a piece of art, one does not have such thought in mind. Then the sole aim is to give your imagination a shape, however, it always feels good if it is able to reach out to a larger audience.

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Why was this installation made in China and not in India?

Well, this was a huge project and could be made only where studios or galleries sponsored it. [Believed to have cost crores] ‘Line of Control’ was first showcased in the Tate Triennial at Tate Britain in 2009 before coming to India a month back.

Bhadrachalam 330km Visakhapatnam 588km Vijayawada 267km Tirupati Srisailam 547km Suryalanka 235km 300km Horsley Hills 520km Hyderabad

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Wellness

Work on wellness

neha bhatnagar

Stress, this one word is causing a lot of agony of people’s mind and health. Purify your system with these wellness therapies.

F

rom relationships to careers, social networking to activism, stress creeps in from any nook and corner. All little we have to do is to learn how to tune in and pay attention to our bodies which can help us achieve a higher level of wellness.

We all know the importance of physical fitness but neglect it till stress manifests itself physically in our systems posing a warning call for a change. The big question is why the wait for the lurking danger to hit us on the face? Today wellness has got a new concept: purifying the body, mind and the soul. It is all about

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combining wellness with a positive attitude to enhance good health in today’s hectic lifestyle and related disorders. Not necessarily to seek admissions in spas and wellness centres drilling holes in your pockets. All that is required is some time and will to be with yourself.

The ancient practice of yoga is the frontier area of wellness techniques. “Based on holistic approach, the focus is on breath, harmony of breath. Yogic exercises harmonises body, mind which in turn regulate our emotions and it’s all done by breath. Our body is on the rhythm of breath,” says Neetu Matella, holistic trainer with the Art of Living.

A daily dose of 15-20 minutes of pranayama can work wonders for your system and help you de-stress Neetu takes daily sessions of wellness techniques and even organises free meditation sittings. The best technique she advises is

Wellness

pranayama, which is a breathing technique that gives direction to your breath. “Focussing on the natural flow of your breathing will give your mind something to do. This process encourages your attention to go inward,� explains Neetu adding that pranayama energises each cell in the body leading to rejuvenation of our stressed nervous system. A daily dose of 15-20 minutes of pranayama can work wonders for your system and help you de-stress.

Second wellness technique that comes handy is Sudarshan kriya. This unique breathing technique eliminates stress, fatigue and negative emotions such as anger, frustration and depression, leaving you calm yet energised, focussed yet relaxed. It is a rhythmic technique and quite powerful, says Neetu because it incorporates specific natural rhythms of the breath which harmonize the body, mind and emotions. Sudarshan kriya harmonises

Barefoot running is the latest fad in the fitness world

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New-age wellness techniques like crystal healing have also proved beneficial to burdened minds the whole system by cleansing daily and accumulated stress.

Meditation is simple and transformative, yet it is highly misunderstood by many. Some people think it is about controlling the mind or stopping it from wandering in thoughts. In short, meditation helps people regulate their attention or systematically focus on particular aspects of

inner or outer experience. The practice usually involves sitting or resting quietly, often with the eyes closed, sometimes it involves the repetitive sounding of a chant (a mantra) meant to help the person focus. According to experts, 20 minutes of meditation is equal to six hours of sleep!

Meditation has been shown to have favourable effects on heart and blood vessel (cardiovascular) function, immunity, and brain activity, such as increasing activity in parts of the brain associated with mental clarity. It often induces physical relaxation, mental calmness, and favorable emotional states in a human body.

Some new-age wellness techniques like crystal healing, pranic healing, hydrotherapy, reiki have also proved beneficial to burdened minds. But these are done with the help of a trainer and not by oneself. There are trained healers for

Wellness

soothing than a good long soak in the tub.

Water is a natural healer bringing calm to the stress of the day’s work.You can further go on an organic diet, combine it with reiki or yoga to lose excess weight.

Delving into some relaxation techniques specifically designed to relieve tension and stress is also a good option. Another concept is guided imagery which involves the use of mental images to promote relaxation and wellness, reduce pain, or facilitate healing of a particular ailment, such as cancer or trauma. The images can involve any of the senses and may be selfdirected or guided by a practitioner.

such therapies who use different mediums like reiki and pranic healing for its cosmic energy; crystal healing which is done with crystals and gems and application of cold and hot water compresses in therapies like hydrotherapy.

Pranic healing simply enhances the inbuilt capacity of a human body to heal by utilizing the energy of life. This energy is called ‘Prana’ (life-force) in Sanskrit. The technique leads to improved health and increased stamina; inner peace and happiness, better memory and concentration, rapid spiritual growth, reduced stress, better interpersonal skills, and greater self-esteem.

Wholesome

wellness

ll in the ergises each ce Pranayama en rejuvenation. body leading to to c diet or yoga Go on an organi lose weight balance al and restore Crystals can he

Tracing their wellness streak to ancient Egypt, crystals have been used to heal and restore balance. They help in releasing and clearing negative energy, thereby assisting in energy healing. Crystals have been found to carry vibration that activates certain energy centers within our electromagnetic system, thus having a positive effect on our entire body systems.

A tub experience can heal the mind, body and soul. Nothing can be more relaxing and

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Spice feature

Beauty in woods

pallavi singh

In an age of Barbie dolls, if at all there is something that would still leave you awestruck, it is the wonderful handmade Kondapalli toys that trace its origin to a hamlet in Andhra Pradesh…

T

oys are a child’s best friends. Toys need not always be bought from shops; it could be any object of daily life, say spoon and saucers, mom’s sari or dupatta. In fact, animals, birds, reptiles and humans learn the lessons of life through play. Young ones of the lion, for example even play with their parent’s tail. Toys, by and large remain the favourite playthings of most children. I sometimes get a feeling that toys were invented by a busy mother who gave their children an object that would keep them busy while she goes on with her daily chores.

In India, the oldest toys belong to the 5,000 year-old Harappan civilisation. These toys were made with natural materials like clay, wood and stone. They depicted ordinary men, women, animals, birds, fruits and vegetables as well as the important professionals who existed in those times - the potter, carpenter and farmer, among others. And these ancient toys are surprisingly similar to the handmade toys of a later date.

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Spice feature

Kondapalli toys depict scenes from actual life, animals, rural folks, deities and characters from the epics have become the pride of Andhra handicrafts.

They are so popular that people don’t realize that these toys are not manufactured or factory-made; they are still made by hand in the hills of Kondapalli, a village about 30 kilometers from Vijayawada.

If you have ever seen a Kondapalli toy, you will note that the figures give an impression of life-like charm, like they are little people ready to talk to you. These toys are famous for its lightweight and vegetable and fruit colours.

Kondapalli toys have carved a niche of their own in the world of handicrafts. Nimble fingered artisans carve with aplomb, as characters emerge and evolve from light soft wood. The traditional craftsmen who make the famed toys are called Aryakshatriyas. The toys are made at home and the work involves the entire family.

This traditional art form has been handed down

Friends for life Many regions in India specialise in toy making.

In Andhra Pradesh for instance, the names of places such as Kondapalli, Nirmal, Ettikoppakka and Tirupati are associated with wooden toys crafted with great style. With the advent of modernization, the delightful picture of quaint village life seems to be vanishing fast. Kondapalli toys have, however, managed to preserve the rural flavour of life in the form of art, and brought it to homes everywhere, whether in a remote rural home, or a big city bungalow.

Most Kondapalli toys are depictions of different components of village life. The Kondapalli toys

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from one generation to another. It continues to be the main livelihood of the people of Kondapalli. The craftsmen specialise in themes taken from their immediate surroundings. Scenes from rural life are carved and made into sets of various sizes. The toys depict scenes from actual life, animals, rural folks, deities and characters from the epics. Kondapalli soldiers, pen stand, Dasavatar set and the Ambari elephants are among the famous items produced by the artisans here.

Carving details We all would agree that it is difficult to infuse life into small blocks of wood, but the Kondapalli toys are exceptions. They are very lively. Every small detail, including the expression of the face, is looked into and carefully carved. Making these toys is no child’s play. It takes a very long time to fashion each one. The toys are made out

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Spice feature

of the locally available soft Puniki wood, which is easy to carve. It is subjected to a process of slow heating, to draw out all the moisture. The wood is seasoned and cut into appropriate size.

Each organ of the body is separately carved and joined together with an adhesive paste derived from tamarind seeds. A coating of chuna (white lime) is given over the surface. A cloth is then fixed on top of the makku (a herbal adhesive) covered toy, further reinforcing the strength.

This is followed by application of the primer and then comes the final step of painting the structure. Both water colours and oil paints are used to paint the toys.

In fact, three kinds of paints - oil, vegetable dyes and enamel - are used to enhance the beauty of the toys. Oil paints are used for regular toys, vegetable dyes for the export quality toys and enamel paints on pieces created for special occasions. The brushes used to colour the toys are very fine and sharp, made of goat’s hair.

The carving tools used are drill, hammer, axe,

bagudari, aakrai (file) and chisels for finer work.

Mythology, rural life and animals are the main themes on which the toys are made. Swans, peacocks and parrots are popular themes too, as are slice-of-life themes: women drawing water from a well, snake charmers, elephant with a mahout (trainer) on its back, potters, etc.

Mythological figures are hot favourites. Lord Krishna, is shown playing the flute with a cow listening on. Kondapalli toys bring colour and joy. They create awareness about rural life and folklore through play. I don’t think there is a better way to learn about the richness of Indian mythology than through the medium of these life-like toys.

In these days of mass-produced picture perfect Barbie dolls, these beautiful folk toys are a reminder that each one, made by hand and so painstakingly, is unique - and it creates a beautiful connection with the world around for the child.

Buy your toys Kondapalli

at can be availed Kondapalli toys State h es ad Pr dhra Lepakshi, the An rabad, at porium in Hyde Handicrafts Em Capital e ngh Marg in th Baba Kharag Si ra, pu m ta Pi , INA and and at Dilli Haat New Delhi.

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Karma

Life saviours

Nivedita Choudhary

Falling short on blood during a tricky operation or in case of accidents could make an enormous difference in saving the life of a patient. This organisation is ensuring no one runs out of blood in a dire situation.

S

hops across the country stock up before major festivals to ensure they don’t run out of anything. But for India’s blood banks, the requirement for supply to match the demand is a crucial question. Thanks to organisations like Association of Voluntary Blood Donors West Bengal, (AVBDWB), which is working towards bridging the gap between the demand and supply of this life-saving fluid in West Bengal and encourage more donors to come forward.

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Established in 1980 by 89 dedicated donors from all walks of life, the association has more than one lakh donors, organisers, motivators, associates and members today. Speaking about the initiative, Debabrata Ray, one of the founder members of the association says, “In 1979, while working as a lecturer in a Kolkata polytechnic, I felt the urge to contribute to the common good because it seemed the right thing to do.” The association started operating from a small address in Kolkata way back in 1980

Karma

Association of Voluntary Blood Donors, West Bengal is urging people to donate blood as often as they can

BDWB Contact AV

ation contact For any infom Kolkata Fordyce Lane, AVBDWB, 20A + (91) : A; Telephone - 700 014, INDI 7882 27 22 3) , +(91) (3 (33) 22271022 m .co ail gm E’mail : avbdwb@

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with a primary objective of motivating people to donate blood voluntarily and raise awareness in society on blood donation. The association also worked on principles of making people aware of the importance of safe blood transfusion. They conduct blood donation camps to ensure supply in government blood banks, organise training programmes for donors, publish posters and booklets to promote voluntary donation. The association also helps the government and other regulatory bodies frame policies on voluntary blood donation and fight against the prevailing superstitions regarding blood donation.

The efforts of Ray and other members of AVBDWB, the initiative has clearly paid off. Talking about the need for blood at every hour, Ray says, “Back then, only around 2,500 bags of blood were donated voluntarily throughout the year. This figure rose to a staggering 6 lakh in 2010. Conducting blood donation camps has become an integral part of the daily routine of the members.” But Ray is not one to rest on his laurels. “At present, around 7 lakh bags of blood are required annually in West Bengal

for treatment of accident victims, newborn babies, surgical, cancer and thalassaemia patients. The consequences of this shortfall”, rues Ray, “are best left to the imagination.”

Ray believes the most effective way to fill blood banks is to bring the bank to the donors and not wait for them to approach blood banks. “Blood donation camps are therefore the focal point of AVBDWB’s activities. The Association sets up and manages blood donation camps, honours donors and organisers, liaise with government blood banks for collection of blood from the camps and organises ‘motivation sessions’ before the start of the camps. The Association conducted a mindboggling 729 camps in 2009,” quips Ray. The formulation and implementation of a well thought-out National Transfusion Policy for India in 2002, says Ray, “is the result of the sustained efforts of the Association since 1985. The Association does research and surveys on behalf of the Ministry of health and family welfare, Government of India, as well as the Planning Commission and the

Karma

A diploma course of three months’ duration on blood donor motivation is conducted in Kolkata annually department of science and technology. It maintains a comprehensive database of voluntary blood donors in West Bengal and prepares papers and write-ups for national and international seminars on the subject of blood donation.”

Camps are organised on February 3 every year at the BC Roy Club House in Kolkata’s Eden Gardens to mark Sir Frank Worrell Day. In 1962, Indian skipper Nariman ‘Nari’ Jamshedji Contractor suffered a near-fatal head injury after being hit by Barbados fast bowler Charlie Griffith in a tour match in Bridgetown.

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The Indian captain needed a considerable amount of blood for survival. His Windies counterpart, Sir Frank Worrell, took of this initiative and players of both the teams donated blood for Contractor. As a testament to his act, there is an annual Sir Frank Worrell Day in Kolkata when people donate blood. Another important occasion is World Blood Donor Day, which is celebrated by blood services worldwide and takes place every year on June 14, marking the birthday of Austrian-born pathologist and immunologist Karl Landsteiner.

“Blood donation camps have been conducted in every conceivable setting over the years. The West Bengal Legislative Assembly, High Court, Kolkata Municipal Corporation, telephone exchanges, banks, schools, colleges, polytechnics, universities, factories, offices and even Durga puja pandals have witnessed lakhs of eager donors donate blood willingly.

Organisers and donors are regularly felicitated at convocations and awarded certificates for their efforts by the association,” reverts Ray. On the educational side, the association also conducts three-day courses in the various districts

of West Bengal each year to train motivators and donors. Last year, these courses were conducted in more than 30 centres across the state and over 2,000 trainees enrolled for the courses. “It is important to encourage people as surveys have found that young people are ‘too busy’ to donate or are frightened of the procedure. A diploma course of three months’ duration on blood donor motivation is conducted in Kolkata every year and AVBDWB also has tie-ups with various state universities. It has also devised a programme to educate school students on the necessity of blood donation and more than 100 schools are covered by this scheme each year,” feels Ray. Blood donation is not about lying on a bed and having a biscuit while feeling terribly virtuous.

“Giving blood is simple for the donor, but it’s lifechanging for the patient who receives it,” adds Ray before signing off. “We want to remind everyone that blood donation is one of the simplest ways you can save or improve a life – just one unit of blood can save many lives, and you can start donating from the age of 18. Make your fresh resolution a life-saving one – give blood.”

Spotlight/Gujarat

Enchanting Gujarat Take time off your busy schedule and visit the beautiful state of Gujarat, which is at its colourful and exotic best throughout the year.

G

ujarat, the land of many opportunities, is one of the most beautiful states in the country. The colourful state of Gujarat is a treasure trove of cultures and natural charms. The beauty of rugged surroundings of the Rann of Kutch has always been a key favourite of both foreign and domestic tourists. With its vast diversity of choices the myriad shades of Gujarat are enough to cast a spell on a discerning traveller.

Gujarat is popularly known for being the abode of majestic Asiatic Lion that finds solace at the Sasan Gir. Those looking out to venture into the territory of the wild can choose their wildlife pick from the Gir Forest National Park and Wildlife Sanctuary, the Purma National Park, and the Vansda National Park.

The state of Gujarat has every tourism product on offer – heritage sites, magnificent temples,

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pristine desert, exciting wildlife and exquisite handicrafts that are churned out by local people.

Also known as the country’s most vibrant state, Gujarat is also home to celebrations and festivals. International Kite Festival, Tarnetar mela, Rann Utsav and Navaratri are some of the major events organized to attract tourists and give people a sample of the traditional Gujarati lifestyle. The untouched beaches of Somnath, Chorwad and Dwarka are some of the exquisite offerings from this western state. If you are looking for a holiday of a different kind, Gujarat is the place you must visit. The state of Gujarat is now the latest hot favourite of domestic and international tourists who want to sample perfect Indian setting in one go. The land of multi-hued cultures and traditions, Gujarat is replete with architectures from different periods and truly gives people a chance to revisit the bygone era. In temples like Modera Sun temple, Dwarka, Somnath and

Spotlight/Gujarat

Clock wise from left: Asiatic lion at Gir, Chief Minister Narendra Modi leading the progress in the state; Mahatma Gandhi’s Sabarmati Ashram near Ahmedabad; Amitabh Bachchan - the star campaigner.

Ambaji, remnants from the past are scattered, illustrating the inception and decline of different empires and kingdoms.

Awards and initiatives The moment you think Gujarat, visuals from the state’s latest campaign ‘Khushboo Gujarat ki’ conjure up in mind. With the initiatives of the Chief Minister Shri Narendra Modi and Minister of Tourism, Health & Family Welfare, Jaynarayan Narmada Shankar Vyas, the state of Gujarat added another feather to its cap. Gujarat is the first state in the country to launch its star campaign, ‘Khushboo Gujarat ki’ featuring megastar Amitabh Bachchan. With affective publicity and aggressive marketing, Gujarat is now one of the most visited states in the country in terms of tourism. And the number of tourists is just growing day by day. For the financial year 2011-12, Gujarat registered an increase of 25 lakhs tourists, a huge growth.

Second year in line, the state has received such magnanimous number of tourists. And why not, the campaign is designed to appeal everyone, from masses to urban population, domestic travellers to international tourists.

It’s raining awards and recognitions for Gujarat Tourism, as the state tourism board also won the prestigious annual TAAI award for ‘India’s Best Tourism Department’ amongst all state tourism boards for the year 2011. With the aggressive initiatives taken by Chief Minister Modi and tourism minister Vyas, Gujarat is burgeoning with tourists and wayfarers. The

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The region of Kutch is described as a cradle of craftsmanship with natives involved in weaving, blockprinting, bandhini tie-and dye and various styles of embroidery, pottery, and wood carving state scored over other nominees like Kerala and Madhya Pradesh for this annual award.

Meanwhile, Gujarat tourism growth is 14 per cent, twice that of national growth rate. One of the vital reasons for such growth rates is the ‘Khushboo Gujarat Ki’ campaign.

planning and charting out new dimensional strategies, the tourism department of the state is promoting new campaigns like organizing road shows in different cities, promoting festivals like Rann Utsav, Kite Festival, Tarnetar Mela, and Saputara Monsoon Festival apart from other important fairs.

According to media reports, the campaign has attracted huge inflow of tourists to the state.

Mainly because the campaign is highlighting some of the hottest destinations in the state like Sabarmati Gandhi Ashram, Junagarh Fort, Sasan Gir, Jamnagar, Kutch apart from other interesting places of interest. After years of effective

Few months back, Gujarat Tourism tapped the capital city by joining hands with Delhi Metro Train. In an attempt to showcase diversity of Gujarat tourism in its entirety, Vipul Mitra, Principal Secretary Tourism, Government of Gujarat and Sanjay Kaul, Commissioner of Tourism & MD, Tourism Corporation of Gujarat

Dedicating 600 MW Solar Power Generation Capacity to the Nation

On the occasion of World Environment Day, Gujarat pledges to create a greener, safer and a more sustainable future

Spotlight/Gujarat

jointly flagged off the branded train at the Reliance New Delhi Metro Station. The Gujarat Tourism branded one entire Delhi Metro Train for a period of three months to promote its ‘Khushboo Gujarat Ki’ campaign.

Exotic panorama Apart from this campaign, the tourism department has strongly campaigned all its festivals, which has attracted a lot of national and international tourists to the state. Be it the Rann Utsav, Krishi Mahautsav, Kankaria Festival or the Kite Festival, each programme has helped in its own way. There has been a continuous increase in the number of tourists entering the state. The Gujarat tourism department has spent around `2 crore to promote the Rann Utsav celebrated last year.

and rolling hills the destination allows you to take a deep breath and sink in the beauty of the place. People who have visited Saputara, call it a nature’s womb, where everything lies in complete harmony. This year, taste a bit of excitement at the thrilling slopes of Saputara.

Trekkers dote on this hiking haven as they are always engulfed by clouds and embraced by greenery. The hills are also home to quails, rails, crakes, flamingos and cuckoos. And bird watchers, might not want to return as the clean air here is always reverberating with the sounds of mellow birdcalls.

on a discerning traveller. Rann of Kutch, a vast tract of land at the western tip of India, is quintessentially a gateway to timeless existence. This year, immerse yourself in the colourful panorama of Rann Utsav, a culturally rich celebration that will transport you to a different world. Kutch as we all know shares its boundaries with the Arabian Sea and is home to salt encrusted desert.

If holiday is on your do-to-list, this is the best time to pack your bags and head for a relaxed holiday. Perfect weather and school/colleges being off this month is enough reason to take a break from the humdrum of city life. Drag yourself out from your home and head for a holiday in the vibrant state of Gujarat.

Craft Ville Never-ending vistas Gujarat will drag you out to witness the chirping birds and the lush charm of the flowers. Those who are in search of some peace can take a misty walk around the Velavadar Black Buck Sanctuary and National Park.

Hill stations are often considered the best options if someone is looking for a holiday or a weekend getaway. Beautiful landscape, mist, gurgling lakes provide just the right setting for a fulfilled holiday. If you are looking for an exclusive holiday option in the hills, visit Saputara, the only hill station in vibrant Gujarat.

Green landscape, cool climate, clear mountain air, and magnificent Gira Falls, await you at Saputara. Saputara or the ‘abode of serpents’ (as it literally means) is nestled amidst the Sahyadri range. Bundled with quaint charm that is yet to be explored, Saputara offers a heady mix of being an offbeat yet exotic destination.

Dotted with green hues, cascading waterfalls

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Sasan Gir Forest in Gujarat is the last home of the majestic Asiatic lion. Wild in all its senses it has always been a great joy to see these huge ‘cat’ prowl in the jungles. However, this species is now almost extinct and hence been declared as the most endangered animal in the world. Their population today is estimated at 411 and today we have them only in the Gir forests. The Nawab of Junagadh had a major role in protection of these wild cats, and with his constant efforts poaching was contended in the region.

The state of Gujarat is a treasure trove of cultures. The beauty of rugged surroundings of Rann of Kutch has always been a key favourite of tourists visiting the country. Myriad shades of Gujarat are enough to cast a spell

The region of Kutch is home to various tribes and nomads who are involved in number of crafts like weaving, block printing, bandhini tie-and dye. Here you can witness various styles of embroidery, pottery, woodcarving, metal-crafts, shell-work and other handicrafts.

The region is clearly defined by the extremes of nature, nomads and tribes clinging onto their traditions, and Rann allows everyone to take a deep breath before you embark your journey to this land of colour and history. Local communities in Kutch boast of accomplished craftsmen who master in making ethnic leather bags, wallets, lamps, complex stitches and intricate mirror work.

Gujarat is also home to numerous Buddhist sites like Vadnagar in Mehsana, Talaja Hills in Bhavnagar, Siyot caves in northwest Kutch, Junagadh caves, Khambhalida caves in Rajkot, Dev ni mori in Shamalaji apart from others.

Overall, the state of Gujarat boasts of some great offerings for a discerning traveller. And with the kind of campaigns and promotions the state is carrying out, soon Gujarat will be the best destination not only in India, but in the world.

Bits & Bytes/gadget

For those on the move

Ashish bhatia

While you are on the move, these gadgets will help you sort all the boredom related troubles...

Plantronics Voyager HD Pro

Unarguably one of the best Bluetooth headsets in business, this Voyager offers excellent audio quality for both incoming and outgoing calls, multipoint connectivity for connecting to more than one phone simultaneously, and outstanding comfort in wearing. It has a unique proximity sensor that lets you switch calls between handsets by merely placing it on your ear.

Specs: It offers WindSmart technology to mute the sound of the wind especially while driving along with voice alerts for low battery and lost connection.

Price: ` 4,999

Logitech Mini Boombox

The Boombox is a mobile Bluetooth speaker and speaker phone meant to augment the audio quality of smartphone, tablets as well as laptops. Its compact size belies both the quality and volume of its sound output. The cute, squat little box offers a built-in mic, touch controls, call mute, aux line-in port, and a USB rechargeable battery (that gives you about 10 hours).

Specs: Portable, wireless speaker, Bluetooth wireless A2DP (Advanced Audio Distribution Profile), 3.5 mm audio input jack, Bluetooth Hands-Free Profile.

Price: ` 6,999

Portable USB LED Light

So often you need to burn the midnight lamp but hesitate because you don’t want to disturb your companion. An inexpensive option is a portable USB LED light that you can plug into your laptop for power. The semi-rigid adjustable arm allows you to swivel-position it in which ever direction you want without much ado. It’s cheap as it is, and no batteries means no recurring expenses either.

Specs: USB powered connection. 40cm long semi-rigid flexible chrome plated cable with support, white LED light emitting, compatible with all computers.

Price: `150

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Bits & Bytes/gadget

Micromax Funbook

Yearning to own a tablet computer but don’t want to spend a bomb? Go for the very affordable Funbook instead. It comes preloaded with nice clutch of apps specially curated for Indian audiences. These range from education, multimedia, games and even live TV streaming. The tablet performs fine; the colour display is somewhat underwhelming, as is the build. All in all, total paisa vasool!

Specs: 7-in 800x480 pixel, 1.2GHz Cortex A8 processor, 512MB RAM, 4GB internal memory, expandable to 32GB with microSD, 1080p HD playback, 0.3MP VGA front camera, 3G Tata Photon dongle and Android 4.0 OS. Price: ` 6,499

Verbatim Freecom Tough Drive

Blissfully smug in the knowledge that your files are sitting safely on your notebook?

You can never be too sure. Anything can happen to that laptop on your travels; it can fall, it can be stolen, the hard disk can crash...this capacious 1TB ruggedized hard drive, with its internal anti-shock frame and a unique soft silicone cover to withstand bumps and drops, is a very nifty carry-on, especially when you are on the trot.

Specs: 1 terabyte (TB) capacity, USB 3.0, internal anti-shock mechanism, and a 2 year warranty.

Price: ` 7,500

Envent Bluetooth Slider Keyboard Case

If you love your iPhone, but often wish it had a regular tactile keyboard, maybe this is exactly what you need - a slider keyboard that also doubles up as a protective phone case. Instead of blocking the device’s solitary connector, the flip-out keyboard connects to the iPhone via Bluetooth giving you all facilities of a keyboard.

The rechargeable battery is officially rated to standby for 45 days.

Specs: Integrated slide-out low-profile QWERTY keyboard, doubles up as hard plastic case, Bluetooth 2.0, 200mAh battery, 45-day standby.

Price: ` 3,999

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Laze & Lounge/films

Reel Reality Bollywood films releasing in June 2012

Rowdy Rathore Release date: June 1 Cast: Akshay Kumar, Sonakshi Sinha Director: Prabhu Deva

The film marks the return of Akshay Kumar to the action thriller genre after a gap of more than seven years. Sonakshi Sinha plays his love interest in the movie, which is being produced by Sanjay Leela Bhansali and Ronnie Screwvala. Here, Akshay features in a double role - one as a cop and

the other as a small-time conman whose paths meets through turns of fate. A lot of action and fight sequences peppered by some songs and a love story are expected to draw the viewers to the theatre for Rowdy Rathore.

The film is said to be a remake of Telugu movie Vikramarkudu (2006), which has also been remade in Kannada as Veera Madakari (2009) and in Tamil as Siruthai (2011).

Upcoming Bollywood capers

Shanghai Release date: June 8 Cast: Abhay Deol,

Emraan Hashmi Director: Dibakar Banerjee A political thriller-cummurder mystery coming from the director of films like Khosla Ka Ghosla.

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Ferrari Ki Sawaari Relese date: June 15 Cast: Sharman Joshi,

Boman Irani Director: Rajesh

Mapuskar The film is about a father who is living to fulfill the dream of his young cricketer son.

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Madagascar 3: Europe’s Most Wanted Release Date: June 8 Cast: Voice of Ben Stiller, Chris

Rock, David Schwimmer Director: Eric Darnell, Tom

McGrath and Conrad Vernon This is the third in the hugely popular animation drama series, the earlier two films being Madagascar and Madagascar: Escape 2 Africa.

Alex the lion, Marty the zebra, Melman the Giraffe and Gloria

the Hippopotamus want to return to their New York zoo after an eventful escape to Africa. They find themselves stuck at Monte Carlo where they also come under the scanner of Animal Control.

To avoid attention, they join a travelling circus on a tour of Europe.

They team up with Siberian tiger Vitaly, Gia the jaguar and Stefano the sea lion to give a boost to the circus performance. Madagascar 3: Europe’s Most Wanted is the first 3-D film in the series.

Upcoming Hollywood capers

Teri Meri Kahani

Prometheus

Rock of Ages

Release Date: June 22 Cast: Shahid Kapoor,

Release Date: June 8 Cast: Noomi Rapace,

Release Date: June 1 Cast: Julianne Hough,

Priyanka Chopra Director: Kunal Kohli

Michael Fassbender Director: Ridley Scott

Coming from the much acclaimed director of films like Hum Tum, this is a romantic drama set in three different time periods.

A science fiction thriller about the crew of a spaceship named Prometheus who undertakes a journey to another world.

Abraham Lincoln:

Vampire Hunter Release Date: Jun 22 Cast: Benjamin

Diego Boneta, Tom Cruise Director: Adam Shankman

Bekmambetov

As the name suggests, this film is a musical comedy set in Los Angeles.

The movie imagines that the former US president was a secret vampire killer.

Walker Director: Timur

Compiled by tumpa dasgupta

Laze & Lounge/books

For the bedside table Flavours First

Penned by Michelin Star Chef Vikas Khanna, who drew audiences with his culinary skills in the show Master Chef India, Flavours First is all about flavours. All the flavours used in the world of cuisines are detailed out in the variety of recipes. The book begins with a comprehensive, easy-to-follow spice and ingredient glossary, a foundation for recreating your favourite Indian dishes at home. Entire chapters are devoted to every part of a complete Indian meal including easy handmade breads, a variety of chutneys, appetizers perfect for parties and entertaining, slow-cooked curries, desserts, and cool refreshing drinks.

Author: Vikas Khanna Publisher: Om Books Price: ` 995

The Edge of Desire A story nicely interwoven with India’s political drama, the novel portrays the fight of the protagonist who has been raped by a local goon. Just when she had given up on finding justice, a leader of the Opposition comes forward and offers her a party seat. What was accepted as a mean of finding that illusive justice, Shruti Ranjan is caught in the political whirlpool, eventually landing herself in a CM’s seat. Even as her political career takes off, her personal life becomes a big question mark even for her. Incidences like the kidnapping of the Home Minister’s daughter are a clear draw from past incidences making the story almost believable.

Author: Tuhin A Sinha Publisher: Hachette India Price: `195

The Terrorist

Penned by journalist Juggi Bhasin, who extensively covered Kashmir politics and the demolition of Babri Masjid, the book peeps into the lives of victims of circumstances, who eventually become terrorists. Suvir and Murad are two such victims who go through pain of losing their loved ones, and hence choose to do things in a different way. While one crosses the border and becomes the most dreaded of terrorists, the other joins the Special Forces. Overall, this edgy thriller will keep you glued to it till the last page.

Author: Juggi Bhasin Publisher: Penguin Metro Reads Price: ` 250

Vimana

When gods fly, where will you hide? The cover of the book leaves you with a striking question. As per legends, Gods flew aircraft called Vimana and waged war with fantastic weapons. What if in this age gods exist and fly their Vimanas? In a tricky situation, Aditya, son of an Air Force pilot finds himself seated next to the controls of deadly vimanas.

And before he could realize what’s happening, he is fighting with demon Kalki along side Durga, Karthik, Shiva and Vishnu apart from other devas. In an attempt to stop Kalki’s terrible plans, Aditya finds himself living his dream in a way he had never imagined possible!

For Aditya who dreamt of flying a fighter jet is now flying deva and asura vimanas.

Author: Mainak Dhar Publisher: Penguin Young Adult Price: ` 250

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By Nitika bajpayee

Fairytale

S

Water baby!

Nitika Bajpayee

Summer brings with it the never-ending heat and sweat. Combat all summer woes by hitting a water park.

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ummer sunshine is here! The long days of summer can involve a mixture of fun and boredom for your kids. Perfect setting to be out, breathing in the fresh air, bask in the bright sun. As the temperature rises outside, it is a good idea to start getting creative with your choice of activities to keep your kids active.

There are a number of fun and creative things you can do with your kids involving water that should keep them entertained and prevent overheating. It is that time of the year when you’d want to slurp cold drinks, smoothies or a simple nimbu pani would satiate the thirst.

Summer time means fun and rollicking. The appetite is lost and everyday life is surrounded by monotony. There can be no better time than this to celebrate freedom from home work and school periods. Instead of lazing around, head to a water park, which fills up the mood of the

Fairytale

Top:At Veegaland, Kochi, feel the rush of energy at Wave Pool; Above: Water rides at Wonder La, Bangalore

holiday. Hitting a water park is perhaps one of the best ideas to make most of this sweltering heat. We bring you three water parks from south India.

Veegaland, Kochi If visiting Kochi is on your itinerary, make sure you don’t leave the city without experiencing the wonderful world of water and joy rides

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at Veegaland, the most famous amusement park. Located just 15 kms from the city of Kochi, Veegaland is home to more than 50 action packed rides for people of every age.

Till few years back, people used to assume that amusement parks are only for children.

With every passing year, this assumption is going wrong as a huge number of college crowd, corporates and families have started

taking interest in leisure activities. Spread over 30 acres of landscaped location, Veegaland is impeccably maintained. No wonder people from whole of Kerala have been thronging to this amusement park. Perched atop a hill at Pallikkara, the park is designed by well known architect Joseph John. The best thing about Veegaland is that there’s something for everyone, there are the heart stopping rides for the brave at heart and the calmer rides like Musical ride, Wonder splash for people who simply want to unwind. The calmer sorts can take fun games, Bullet rides, Caterpillar ride, or just hit the Wave pool, which is a great hit amongst the youngsters. If you an adventure enthusiast do try the Rapid rives, where you wade through the water or drift along in a raft through the interconnected 10 pools. As you raft, you will get a chance to enjoy the fiveheaded hydra spewing water on you. Fun glides is a fantastic ride, which has eight water slides in which riders on the rubber mats make their way down negotiating curves and loops coming on the way to finally come a slow and easy halt.

Play pools, Snake slides, Turbo sphere are some interesting water rides one must not miss while at Veegaland.

Wonder La, Bangalore

As you visit Wonder La, it may feel like you have stepped into an Arcadian water world of fun, thrill and excitement. Spanning over 82 acres of land, the park offers an extravaganza

Fairytale of rides. The overall ambience of the park gets some high scoring points. A musical fountain, Star-Wars, Star-Trek worthy laser shows, high-thrill rides, kid’s rides, heated wave pool – exciting enough? If that doesn’t get your adrenalin pumping, sounds of Rain disco will definitely send your heart rate soaring. The Rain Disco is just the right place to let your hair down and boogey to 10,000 watts of hifidelity sound and psychedelic laser lights. It is not just another rain disco offered at various amusement parks, it comes with a twist, electronically choreographed rain showers. You get to dance to the rain, which pours down cats and dogs or tapers to a drizzles in tune to the music. Wonder La also has India’s tallest Ferris wheel, located atop a 13-floor tower known as the Sky Wheel. The water rides are fun and innovative. Not only do you have the usual water slides, you also have rides like the Water Pendulum, Banded Krait and Boomberang that are extremely different to what we already have in the country. The best thing about this place is that there’s something for everyone. Authorities treat water through the reverse osmosis process. It would be a good idea to pack two sets of clothes to change and a swimsuit. The place has enough lockers, changing rooms and shower rooms, unless you are planning to go only for the dry rides.

Black Thunder, Coimbatore

Feel that rush of adventure at Wonder La by taking a ride at Ferris wheel, which is located atop a 13-floor tower and is known as the Sky wheel 132 June 2012

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Calling everybody - people and tourists in Tamil Nadu - to explore the water drenched world of Black Thunder, one of Asia’s top water theme park. Situated on the footthills of the blue mountains of Nilgiris, the sprawling 75 acre campus of Black Thunder is all about green locales, fresh air and fun. Nilgiris as it is a close confluence of sublim countryside and exotic surroundings, enroute to Black Thunder, you will come across the best preserved offerings of nature. Black Thunder boasts of 49 rides which are really high on the thrill quotient. The park stands true to its tagline – Great Place, Great Fun. If you want to go adventurous, there are action packed water rides to satiate your hunger for adventure. While you are taking a plunge in the water in Wave Pool, you feel the surge of a huge ocean. The pool is complete with 4 feet high artificial waves rolling along 15,000 square feet of water. Surf Hill is an exhilarating water ridre which kicks people off a the summit of the hill and you get a change to speed along the 300 feet long water lanes. The cannon ball ride can be as wild or mild, as you want. Slide down the foam lined tube in total darkness and safely shoot-out into the deep end of the pool. So let your kids have a splashing fun.

Fairytale

Go out and play!

Nitika Bajpayee

This summer vacation, don’t just sit back and watch television. Get out of the comforts of your home and hit the playground, indulge in sporting activities and just sweat it out.

S

ummer is here and so is the summer vacation. There’s hardly any child who is not in love with lazy summer vacation. This one and a half month of pure luxury not only cuts children off the routine school days but also makes them spend quality time with family and friends.

While most kids look forward to the summer vacation, some children dread they will not have just nothing to do. A lot is on the to-do-list of children who make plans with their friends and plan to have a blast during the vacation.

The idea of having a blast can sometime daunt

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parents, who fret at the thought of children being around for almost two months without having anything concrete to do.

Summer fun The sudden break in daily routine makes them go crazy. Of course you can take kids out for a holiday, but that would last for not more than 10 or 15 days. After a few days of vacation and doing masti, children would look for ways to stay entertained. Summers are great time for kids to get outdoors and enjoy the long days. During the evenings, children can spend

a lot of time outdoors and take advantage of summers by indulging in activities like cycling and swimming. Or maybe they can actually use the summer vacation to pursue a hobby or a fun activity that would keep them involved during the day and learn something new. Fun activities or hobbies can actually help you bond with your kids. Maintain a healthy balance of outdoor activities, indoor fun and artistic pursuits that can fuel up the hearty summer holidays. As a parent you would agree that it is very important for children to be active. Sports bestows them a chance to be active and also

Fairytale

Where: Vikas Thakur & Deepak Salvi, 2, Neelashri, Opp. Walawalkar Wadi, Aarey Road, Goregaon (East), Mumbai - 400 063 Email: vikas@saitennisacademy.com, deepak@saitennisacademy.com

Basketball

Healthy balance of outdoor activities, indoor fun and artistic pursuits that can add colour to the vacation offers other benefits like improvement in self esteem, make friends and develop sportsman spirit. Calling all children who want to make the most of their summer vacation. Instead of lazing around at home, head for the nearest sports complex and try your hand at sporting activities you think you are good at. Sporting activities not only brightens up their days but also educates children and eventually they learn something new. Most sports complexes in every city offer special summer activity sessions, offering courses in judo karate, swimming, basketball, tennis, athletics besides cycling tours and kickboxing. These sporting sessions cater to children of all age groups and provide an enriching experience, which becomes a part of their childhood.

So, this summer vacation, ditch all your video games, Playstations and Xboxes and learn something new and interesting. Who knows kids may make a career out of what they learn at this point of time of their lives...

Karate This fun acitivity has been around for ages now. If you live in Chennai and are looking for a karate class for your children, Colt Institute of Karate & Holistic Health is just perfect

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for you. Affiliated to International Goju Ryu Karate Association, New Zealand and to All India Karate do Federation, the institute trains youngsters and children in karate under the guidance of Grand Master Hanshi Dennis May VIII Dan Black Belt, New Zealand. The institute has courses in which they teach both traditional and sport versions of karate. If you want to quickly attain a black belt, the institute also conducts a two-day residential course, where vigorous practice sessions are organized.

Where: Plot no 62, 2nd Floor, M G Road, Vannandurai, Adyar, Chennai - 600020.

Email: coltkarate@gmail.com

Lawn tennis These days children love trying their hand at different sports. Children are involved in sports like soccer, badminton, cricket and basketball at their schools. Try giving tennis a try, the latest sport all children are in love with. Those living in Mumbai can contact Sai Tennis Academy, a veteran in the field of tennis coaching. With about 20 coaches and trainers, children get to learn the game at a quick pace. For all your end to end tennis needs, game knowledge, cost effective world class coaching, Sai Tennis Academy is the perfect place for your child.

Like all games, basketball is also one that is made up of quite a few fundamental movements. When put together, these movements form the basis for play. Learning the basic fundamentals of basketball will make your children equipped with all the necessary knowledge about this game. Ramjas Sports and Mountaineering Institute, situated in the heart of West Delhi is one stop shop for all major games and sports. Under the guidance of expert coaches (former national level players), your children can master the fundamentals of basketball. If you are looking for another sport for your child, the institute is a perfect place as it offers cricket coaching, hockey, soccer, volleyball, tennis and badminton coachings. Your child can feel the rush of adventure here as the sports complex also conducts artificial climbing wall which is 15 metre high. Here, annual and monthy memberships are also available.

Though summer workshops offer unlimited fun.

Where: 36/17 West Patel Nagar New Delhi Contact: 011-25748929

Kids Zone/comics

Š Asia Features 138 June 2012

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Kids Zone/games

Brain teasers THAT SCRAMBLED WORD GAME

by David L. Hoyt and Jeff Knurek

Unscramble these six Jumbles, one letter to each square, to form six ordinary words.

©2011 Tribune Media Services, Inc. All Rights Reserved.

EDSNDU UTAZRQ SEIROR

Find us on Facebook http://www.facebook.com/jumble

ROBWRO

Solutions

USMTTO MANTUU

Now arrange the circled letters to form the surprise answer, as suggested by the above cartoon.

PRINT YOUR ANSWER IN THE CIRCLES BELOW

DREW ATTENTION

OCTOBER 23, 2011

BORROW QUARTZ UTMOST ROSIER AUTUMN SUDDEN When the Jumble artist took his work to the beach, he did this —

Answer :

Answer :

BORROW QUARTZ UTMOST ROSIER AUTUMN SUDDEN When the Jumble artist took his work to the beach, he did this —

DREW ATTENTION

OCTOBER 23, 2011 PRINT YOUR ANSWER IN THE CIRCLES BELOW Now arrange the circled letters to form the surprise answer, as suggested by the above cartoon.

MANTUU USMTTO SEIROR UTAZRQ

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Kidzone / products

Kids’delight Surprise your kids with these summer products...

Yummy delights

Summer is at its peak, no wonder you must be craving for refreshing cool and creamy treat. So get set to indulge in some mouth-watering treat for you and the kids this summer with Monginis. The latest offering from Monginis is a wide range of summer cakes in flavours like Mango Kesar, Peach Apricot, Jelly Bean all topped with fresh fruits and vibrant colour icing.

Racing thrill

This summer, take the excitement of playing with Hot Wheels to a new high, as the brand new place to race Hot Wheels cars, is none other than the walls in your room!

Price: `1,799 onwards Available: At all leading retail outlets across the country.

Price: `750 per kg Available: Across all Monginis outlets

Studying fun

Spruce up your workstation with Disney products. Gifting Idea brings in new products to make your workstation more peppy. They have coasters, clocks, cups, mobile stands which can look elegant when placed on your table etc.

Price: `250 onwards Available: Shop online at www.giftingideas.com

BALLYS CASINO Sri Lanka Highest Winning Percentage In The World

T

he Ballys Colombo located in the heart of the capital city which is also adjacent to Colombo’s most beautiful Berria Lake and is the entertainment hub with all of the five star Hotels in the city at a close proximity.

Ballys has been in operation since 1995, the casino houses sixty Gaming tables an elegant bar and a classy Restaurant for fine dining, state of the art board room for luncheon meetings.

Ballys Colombo interior and furnishings are rich in color and reminiscent of European style yet the atmosphere is sociable, inviting and relaxed, Ballys Colombo plays an important role in Sri Lankas tourism which generates revenue for the country and overflows to retailers, hotels, taxis, tour operators and many more local businesses.

Since its opening, Ballys Colombo has been an important corporate citizen, through sponsorships, partnerships and donations. We also contribute to the economy by providing nearly 600 jobs and attracting thousands of visitors every year. Our most dramatic contribution is the one we make directly to the community through our government.

Ballys Colombo celebrated sixteen years of successful business in the gaming industry. Ballys Colombo do offer special packages for foreigners which includes free air fare, Five Star Hotel accommodation, free transport & Free Food & Beverage.

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Mumbai

Bengaluru

Chennai

Kolkata

Hyderabad

Ahmedabad

Photo Feature

Island beauties

icecubes

Known for the Cellular Jail, where a lot of our freedom fighters spent their last days, the city of Port Blair is also about underwater beauty and unexplored islands.

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Photo Feature

While in the Andamans, watch the sunset over the beautiful Havelock Island.

Freedom Fighters’ Memorial is a reminder of a great legacy of patriotism.

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The striking facade of the renovated bakery in Ross Island.

Cellular Jail is still visited by many in memory of our freedom fighters

Photo Feature

The waters around the islands is home to fantastic underwater treasures. Tourists can try their hand at deep sea walking, snorkelling, parasailing in the emerald waters of Andamans that is filled with unending variety of fish and corals.

The Lighthouse, 14 km south of Hut Bay port (Little Andaman), is a magnificent sight.

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Ross Island houses the ruins of old buildings like the church and the troop barracks.

Spice Fortune

Numerology Predictions for June 2012

By Dr. Prem Kumar Sharma

One

1

Born on 1,10,19,28

Born on 2,1, 20, 29

Unnecessary tensions at work might trouble your mind but this will just be a passing phase so do not worry. Maintain a distance from a greedy colleague as he/she might misguide you. Use your intuition to take quick decisions. Chances of job change for some are likely. Meditation and holistic healing would prove beneficial. Love is in the air for those seeking alliances.

Be cautious on the romantic and professional fronts as the month brings in some high and low tides. Having a positive outlook will help you on the work front and lift the standard of your performance. Realizing the importance of nutritional food would benefit you.

Remember not to assign an important work to an unreliable person. Do not hesitate in admitting your mistake and correct them.

Lucky Number: 5 Lucky Color: Yellow

Lucky Number: 11 Lucky Color: Pink

TWO Born on 3,12, 21, 30

3

Things remain good on the health as well as the professional front where you achieve success from the efforts put in the past. Those already facing health problems must take refuge of a professional therapist. Patients suffering from partial spinal pains should take help from a professional trainer. Love life needs some concern; patience is the key to deal with them.

Lucky Number: 9 Lucky Color: Orange

Three

4

Four

Born on 4,13,22,31 Some of you are likely to take help of homeopathy to de-stress yourself. Those already suffering from joint and muscle pain will find some relief. People suffering from high cholesterol need to be strict with their exercise routine and make sure they go for it without a miss. Stars also advice you to use your optimum potential on the work front.

Professionals engaged in architecture, IT and social services; the latter half of the month will be rewarding.

Lucky Number: 7 Lucky Color: Lavender

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Spice Fortune

5

6

five

Six

Born on 5,14,23

Born on 6,15,24

This month seems to be a good and lucky one for you when expected success comes your way as and when you put in the desired efforts. The good news is that you will try to learn the healing power on realizing that it is a composite process that comes from within and rejuvenates the whole body. Diabetic and asthmatic patients in particular need to take special care. Company of your beloved will make you happy. Professional life tests your mettle, as results are likely to come only after putting increased efforts.

Love life indicates encouraging results.

There are also indications of planning a short pleasure trip with partner to enjoy the ecstasies of love. Avoid finding faults in your partner as it could put the budding affair in jeopardy. Work front requires some cautious approach this month too. Making new contacts with high profile personalities would help in channelizing further opportunities.

Computer professionals, looking for an overseas career will get an opportunity.

Lucky Number: 4 Lucky Color: Indigo

Lucky Number: 6 Lucky Color: Crimson

Seven

Born on 7,16,25 A good mix of health, romance and profession adds creativity in whatever you perform. You are lucky to have a partner who would be your wall of support and help you make your decisions more concrete, both professionally and personally. At professional front, your creative energy and past experience would enable achieving set targets. For some, a job change would give the much needed relief; however, this requires working hard to prove your mettle new colleagues’ will also be very supportive.

Lucky Number: 14 Lucky Color: Steel Grey

8 9

Eight Born on 8,17,26 Stars promise with good health this month.

Avoiding junk and oily food would be of great help. Romance front seems to be fine too. Your ability to shoulder additional responsibilities and solve intricate problems brings professional success. Better remain cautious as wasting time in useless activities might go against you by slipping many promising opportunities. For some change in workstation brings positive results.

Lucky Number: 3 Lucky Color: Purple

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NINE Born on 9,18,27 Stars advise you to stop taking things for granted and take them in a much serious way in order to reap the benefits and enjoy life to the fullest. Things at health front are likely to remain very satisfactory throughout the month. Following its principles without fail will enable to bring sea change in your behaviour. You would be quite romantic this month and luckily you get the similar response from your partner.

Lucky Number: 1 Lucky Color: Brown

Aurangabad

Bangalore

Airport: The Singerbhil Airport, located about 12 km away from the city centre.

Airport: Aurangabad Airport is located at a distance of 10 km from the city centre.

Must Try: Kurry Klub Restaurant at Hotel Welcome Palace, Hari Ganga Basak Road is known for its Indian fare.

Must Try: The most delicious of tandoori cuisine s served at the Tandoor Restaurant and bar located on the Station Road.

Airport: Bengaluru International Airport is located 40 km from the city’s business district and 30 km from railway station.

Agartala

Must See: The heart of the city of Agartala lies the Ujjayanta Palace, the famous royal house, beautifully carved and sculpted in Indo-Greek style.

Must Try: Karavalli at the Taj West End on Residency road is a seafood lover’s heaven, serving typical South Indian delights.

Must See: The centrally located Ulsoor lake is spread over an area of 1.5 sq km and dates back to the time of Kempe Gowda I and II.

Must Stay: Ginger Agartala on Airport Road offers convenient accommodation.

Must See: The dark tunnels, passages, archways at the Daulatabad fort, 13 kms away from Aurangabad, speak volumes of history.

Must Stay: Catering to the modern day traveller, Hotel Vits is a luxurious business class hotel, located on the Railway Station Road.

Ahmedabad Airport: Sardar Vallabhbhai International Airport is 15 km from the city centre.

Must Try: Awesome and authentic Gujarati Thalis are served at Toran Dining Hall on Ashram Road, opposite Sales India.

Bagdogra Airport: Bagdogra Airport serves the towns of Darjeeling, Kalimpong and Gangtok. Take a bus or private/shared taxi to Darjeeling, Kalimpong, Gangtok.

Must Stay: Well-equipped to provide comfort to travellers, The Gateway Hotel Residency Road is one of the best hotels in the city.

Bhopal

Must Try: Kunga restaurant in Darjeeling, offers generous portions of the delicious Tibetan fare that is served here.

Must See: Bagdogra is the base for travelling to places like Darjeeling and Kalimpong. There are several tourist activities that you can engage in Darjeeling.

Must Stay: Situated on the Bihar More in Bagdogra, Marinas Motel great stay option with finely furnished and well equipped rooms.

Must See: Kankaria is an artificial lake dates which back to the time of Sultans. Situated in the south east region of Ahmedabad is a crowd puller in recent times.

Must Stay: Experience a stay with all possible contemporary and plush comforts at The Gateway Hotel Ummed Ahmedabad.

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Airport: The Raja Bhoj International airport is the international airport. It is located in Bairgarh, 15 kms north-west of Bhopal.

Must Try: Winds and Waves is a lovely hangout known for the beautiful view it offers along with the snacks.

Must See: Bhimbetka, located about 50 kms from Bhopal, is home to ancient rock shelters, which house some amazing cave paintings.

Must Stay: Revel is royal luxury at the Jehan Numa Palace Hotel in the upscale Shamla Hills area in the city.

Destinations

Calicut Airport: Calicut International Airport, also known as Karipur Airport, is located at a distance of about 25 km from the city centre. Pre-paid taxis are easily available for you to hire.

Must Stay: Hotel Savera on Radhakrishna Salai is a chic hotel and perfect stay option suitable for both business andleisure travellers.

Coimbatore

Must Try: While you are in Calicut, do remember to eat at Kingsbay one place to pamper one with mouth watering food. Try the squid rings and avacado salad or prawn cocktails.

Garden, the best hotel near the airport

Delhi Airport: Indira Gandhi International Airport is located 20 km from the city centre. Pre-paid and radio taxis are easily available.

Must See: Krishna Menon Museum is dedicated to V.K. Krishna Menon, where his personal belongings and souvenirs gifted to him are exhibited. The museum is located adjacent to the Pazhassi Raja Museum, with various other exhibits besides the great leader.

Airport: Coimbatore Airport in Peelamedu is 13 km from the city. Pre-paid taxis and auto-rickshaws are easily available.

Must Try: Greens & Grains on the Avanashi Road is a new, trendy, upscale restaurant that serves a variety of traditional and contemporary cuisines.

Must See: An exciting journey to the centre of a dense forest, brings you to the magnificent Kovai Kuttralam waterfalls, about 37 kms from the city.

Must Stay: Bid farewell to your worries and relax at the Gateway Hotel, situated on the beach road in Calicut. The hotel is primarily a business hotel and is located in a residential area, jusy two minutes from the local beach. The hotel has many floors and is surrounded by green, that is maintained to a high standard.

Must Stay: Thematic interiors, spacious rooms and a wide choice of F&B outlets, makes The Residency a major landmark on Avinashi Road.

Colombo Airport: Bandaranaike International Airport is Sri Lanka’s only International airport. It is also known as Katunayake or Colombo International Airport.

Chennai

Must Try: Experience the authentic flavours of South India at the Dakshin Restaurant, located in the Sheraton Park Hotel & Towers.

Goa Airport: Dabolim Airport in Vasco is 30 kms from Panaji, Goa’s capital and pre-paid taxis are easily available.

Must Stay: Bid farewell to your worries and relax at the White Pearl Suites situated near the Baga Beach in Goa. Must Try: Beach Wadiya in Wellawatta promises the best seafood and has had the privilege of serving the royal family of Nepal.

Must See: Gangaramaya Temple on the banks of the Beira lake is not only a place of worship for Buddhists, but also a centre for learning about the religion. The annual event of Gangarama Navam Perahara is Colombo’s grandest outdoor parade on the events calendar.

Must Stay: When you are in Colombo, do choose to stay at The Gateway Hotel Airport

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Must Stay: At a convenient distance from the airport and NH8, Lebua New Delhi is a fine 5-star hotel situated in the Dwarka area of the capital.

Must See: Basilica of Bom Jesus that holds the remains of St Francis Xavier, is a holy place revered by the followers of Christianity as well as other religions.

Must See: Marina Beach is a 12 kms stretch of pristine beach, supposedly, the second longest in the world. That’s why the beach is also called ‘Chennai’s pride’.

June 2012

Must See: The Purana Qila is an old fort or rather the remains of the 16th Century Shergarh.

The massive gateway and walls of Purana Quila were built by Humayun and the foundation laid for the new capital, Dinpanah.Purana Quila is the venue for the spectacular sound and light show held every evening.

Must Try: Go for prawn cocktails or bread butter pudding or any of fish and steak preparations at Chef Soumyen’s Kitchen on Calangute Beach.

Airport: Chennai International Airport is 7 km from the city centre and 16 km from railway station. Private taxis are easily available.

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Must Try: The Big Chill at the Khan Market serves delicious continental fare and a variety of cheese cakes too.

Destinations

Guwahati

Indore

Airport: Lokapriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport is 25 km from the main city.

Car rental and taxi services are easily available.

Airport: Indore’s International Airport is Devi Ahilyabai Holkar Airport, 8 kms southeast of the city.

Must Try: JB’s on MG road is a Mexican style bar, known for its snacks, baked items and ice-creams.

Must Try: On your visit to Indore, don’t forget to savour succulent kebabs that just melt in your mouth at Kebabsville at Scheme No 54 in Vijay Nagar area of Indore.

Must See: Assam State Museum operated by the Assam government is located near Dighalipukhuri tank. The museum is extremely popular due to

its amazing anthology of antiques right back to the prehistoric times. The collection boasts of some of the most authentic prehistoric sculptures, metal, ivory paintings, woodwork and costumes etc.

Must Stay: Located in Madhab Nagar, Khanapara, Greenwood Resorts offers a relaxing retreat along with recreational activities.

Hyderabad Airport: Rajiv Gandhi International Airport is 25 km from Begumpet. Car rentals and taxis are easily available.

Must See: Rajwada is a remarkable mansion which sings the glory of the beautiful land of Indore. If you are here,don’t miss Rajwada, which is a beautiful blend of different architectural styles.

Rajwada speaks edifice of the rich heritage.

MUST Stay: Radisson Blu Hotel, located in the heart of Indore’s business hub, is ideal for the discerning business traveller.

Jaipur Airport: Sanganer Airport is 13 km from the city of Jaipur. Pre-paid taxi services are easily available.

Must Try: Situated in the heart of Johari Bazaar in Jaipur, Lakshmi Mishthan Bhandar is a well known eatery that serves traditional sweets along with snacks like bedmi puri, dhokla, daal baati churna apart from farsaan.

retreat of the Maharaja of Jaipur. And might easily become one of your preferred destinations as well.

Jammu Airport: Satwari Airport is 8 km from the city of Jammu. Pre-paid taxi service is easily available.

Must Try: Dig into succulent Kalmi and Bukni Kababs or Kasturi Paneer Tikkas at Bar-E-Kabab

restaurant at the Aisa Hotel located in the Nehru Market.

Must See: Amar Mahal, constructed by King Raja Amar of Dogra in 1890s, looks like a French chateau. Now, the palace is turned in to a museum with rich collections of paintings, books, inscriptions and sculptures.

Must Stay: Located on the banks of river Tawi, Fortune Inn Rivera is a cosy retreat, perfect for a business stay.

Kathmandu

Must See: Hawa Mahal (Palace of the Winds) is part of the City Palace complex and was used for the ladies of the Royal Family to maintain the tradition of purdah (veil) while still observing the activities in the streets below without being seen themselves.

Must Stay: Live life like the royals at the Gateway Hotel Ramgarh Lodge in the royal city of Jaipur. The lodge was once the favourite hunting Must Try: Relish the Nawabi cuisine, especially, the Angoori Murgh at The Jewel of Nizam, the fine dining restaurant at The Golkonda Hotel.

Must See: Mecca Masjid is a listed heritage building in the old city of Hyderabad, close to the historic landmarks of Chowmahalla Palace and Laad Bazaar.

Must Stay: Novotel Hyhderabad is a 5 star business class hotel with a state-of-the-art Convention Centre and provides all the facilities for a comfortable stay.

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Airport: Tribhuvan International Airport located in Kathmandu is the only international airport in Nepal.

Must Try: More than the Indian, Italian, Pakistani and Nepali cuisine at Helena’s Restaurant, on Chaksibari Marg in Thamel.

Must See: In the heart of the Kathmandu valley lies Darbar Square, the ancient square crowded with palaces and temples.

Must Stay: In the heart of Diplomatic Enclave and Durbar Marg stands Hotel Shangri-La.

Destinations

Kochi

Forum Mall on Elgin Road.

Must See: The Marble Palace at Chorbagan is now a museum, home to precious art by Rubens and Sir Joshua Reynolds. the majestic structure was built by one of Bengal’s richest landlord - Raja Rajendra Mullick Bahadur in the year 1830.

Must Stay: You’ll be amazed and excited at Chrome Hotel on AJC Bose Road, relaxing in the tech-savvy interiors of the hotel.

unwind, the adventurous can step out to explore Pilikula Nisargadhama that showcases the culture, heritage and natural bounties of Karnataka.

Must Stay: Elegance and luxury go hand in hand at Gateway Hotel Old Port Road in Mangalore.

Make most of this lovely weather by visiting the city for all seasons.

Madurai Airport: Madurai Airport is located about 10 km from the city centre. Prepaid taxis areeasily available.

Must Try: Munch on some healthy and interesting varieties of chappatis at the Chappati Park near the KK Nagar arch.

Airport: Cochin International Airport is situated just 30 kms from the city. From there, take a prepaid taxi to reach your destination in the city.

Must See: Alagar Koil, the Vaishnav temple, dedicated to the lord, considered the brother or goddess Meenakshi is 20 kms from the city.

Alagarkovil is situated at the foot of the range of hills called Alagarmalaiand the beauty of exquisite

Must Try: For some Kerala style fish fries and set meals, head to Unnikrishnan restaurant in Pallimakku area.

Mumbai Airport: Chhatrapati Shivaji International Airport is 30 km from downtown Mumbai. It is advisable to take pre-paid taxis to avoid rush.

Must See: Fort Kochi is a small village located near the main and large city of Kochi. In Fort Kochi, you will come across untouched picturesque beaches running along this side of the coast.

Scattered throughout the beaches are many famous Chinese fishing nets and sailing ships.

Must Try: Gazalee at the High Street Phoenix mall in Lower Parel is known for its authentic varieties of Maharashtrian coastal food.

Must Stay: Relive the past at Cochin Heritage Home, located just next to the Bishop’s House in Fort Kochi area of the city.

Must See: Take a walk in the upscale south Mumbai where you could see Rajabai Clock Tower, Prince of Wales Museum and the Gateway of India in one go. Marine Drive, Church Gate, Colaba Causeway are places where you can relax in a true blue Mumbaikar style.

Kolkata sculptures in the hall and other ‘mandapams’ of the temple.

Must Stay: The Gateway Hotel Pasumalai offers bestows its guests with high standards in accommodation.

Mangalore Airport: The Mangalore International Airport is located near Bajpe, about 20 kms Northeast of the city centre.

Airport: Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose International Airport is 20 km from Kolkata city.

Pre-paid taxis are easily available.

Must Try: Savour the authentic flavours of Kolkata at Oh! Calcutta, on the 4th storey of

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Must Try: Coffee connoisseurs will appreciate the delicious coffee, served at the New Taj mahal Restaurant in Kodialbail.

Must See: About 15 kms away from Mangalore city is the Pilikula Nisragadham, a beautiful lake with boating facility. While those who enjoy a slowpaced holiday can hang up their feet and

Must Stay: Right on Juhu Beach stands this luxurious home away from home, the Novotel Juhu Beach.

8 in 10 consumers say they are aware of custom media, either in print or electronically 7 in 10 consumers say they prefer to learn about a company through a collection of articles rather than an ad 8 in 10 consumers say they have seen custom content in print magazines or newsletters; almost half have seen digital magazines & one-third in social media Source: Consumers’ attitudes toward custom content - conducted by Gfk Roper Public Affairs & Corporate Communications. The study was commissioned by the Custom Content Council in March,2011

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Destinations

Nanded

Pune

Srinagar

Airport: Shri Guru Gobind Singh ji Airport or Nanded Airport is well connected to all major cities. Taxis are easily available.

Airport: Pune International Airport is situated at a distance of 10 km from main city. Pre-paid taxi and auto-rickshaws are easily available.

Airport: Srinagar International Airport is situated at a distance of about12 kms from the city centre.

Pre-paid taxis are easily available from the airport.

Must Try: Elegant fine dining experience at the Malaka Spice is a must for the lovers of pan-asian and oriental cuisine.

Must Try: Walk into the streets of Khayam, where local vendors put up food stalls, selling local delights.

Must See: Saras Baug, in place of a dried up lake, is now a major landmark and has a Ganesh Temple. The place where the park now stands was once occupied by a small lake. However, the lake got dried up and was later developed into Saras Baug.

Must See: Hazrat Bal shrine in Srinagar on the left bank of Dal Lake is where a hair strand of Prophet Mohammed is treasured. The name of the shrine comes from the Arabic word Hazrat, meaning holy or majestic, and the Kashmiri word bal, meaning place.

Must Stay: Relax in the lap of luxury at the Four Points By Sheraton, situated in the Viman Nagar area of the city.

Must Stay: Offering panoramic view of the Dal Lake, Vivanta By Taj is a modern and contemporary space.

Rajahmundry

Surat

Must Try: While in Nanded, must visit Treasure Bazaar for great eating and shopping options as the biggest mall in the city serves a variety of cuisines.

Must See: Every year thousands of Sikhs, flock to Nanded to pay respects to Takht Sachkhand Shri Hazur Abchalnagar Sahib. This site is now one of five Takhats, places of primary importance to the Sikhs.

Must Stay: Hotel City Pride is one the best hotels in the city, offering comfortable services and cuisines.

Port Blair Airport: Veer Savarkar International Airport, also known as Port Blair Airport is located at a distance of 2 km from the city centre. This is the main airport of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands of India.

Must Try: When in Andaman, don’t forget to relish the delectable varities of sea food. From upscale restaurants to local eateries on Havelock island, good quality fish dishes are available.

Must See: Cellular Jail, presently a revered shrine dedicated to great Indian freedom fighters who sacrificed their lives for the Independence struggle for our nation, is situated at Aberdeen near Port Blair in Andaman islands.

Airport: The Rajahmundry airport is located in Madhurapudi, 18 kms north of the city. Pre-paid taxis are easily available from the airport.

Must Try: The Black Pearl at Hotel Jetty Grand on Vygram Road serves an array of cuisines.

Must See: Sir Arthur Cotton Museum and the barrage at Dowlaiswaram gives some interesting insights on the area’s history. Lot of models

Must Stay: Relax in the lap of nature at the Kaala Pani Resort, which is surrounded by natural forest. Here, you can enjoy snorkelling, swimming and diving in deep blue sea.

Airport: Surat Airport is located in Magdala is around 11 km southwest from the city centre.

Must Try: Do try kulfis and handmade icecreams in different flavours like mirch, ginger at Janta ice-cream outlets across the city.

collected from various places and projects were exhibited in the Museum to attract the visitors, and to make them understand various items connected to Irrigation works.

Must Stay: Simple, elegant, neat and cosy rooms is what you can be sure of at Akanksha Inn.

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Must See: Sardar V Patel Museum and Planetarium, also known as Sardar Sangralaya was established in 1889. The collection here represents the rich history and eclectic ethnic mix of Surat. Open from 9 am -11:30 am and 2:30 pm-5 pm every day except Sundays and public holidays.

Must Stay: The Gateway Hotel Athwalines offers plush accomodation with latest amenities and services to all its guests.

Destinations

Tirupati Airport: Tirupati Airport is situated at a distance of 14 kms from the Tirupati city.

Must Try: Vegetarian varieties of authentic South Indian cuisine is served at Vrinda, at Hotel Sindhuri Park.

Must Try: Ambrosia at the Bakery Junction (has many more outlets too) is the best for a quick grub of sandwiches, burgers, desserts and beverages.

Must See: The interactive Keralan Museum,

Must See: The holy temple Sri Venkateswara is situated in the 7th peak of the Venkata Tirupati Hill that lies in the south banks of Sri Swami Puskharini.

There are bus services 16 km uphill, many devotees prefer walking.

those on a tour, Clarks Varansi is the best option.

Vijayawada Airport: Vijaywada Airport is located in Gannavaram, just 20 kms from the city centre. opposite the Napier museum, is the first of its kind, with the touch screen terminals.

Must Stay: Former home of Royal British Officers, Mascot Hotel is now a heritage hotel, offering luxury.

Must Stay: Having served some prominent personalities, Hotel Bliss welcomes its guests with enthusiasm.

Must Try: Enjoy a hearty traditional fare at Golden Pavilion restaurant on MG road near Andhra Hotel.

Must See: Mogalarajapuram caves near Vijayawada are among the 3 cave temples known for the magnificent carving of the Ardhanarishwar.

Tuticorin Airport: Tuticorin Airport is a domestic airport located 16.9 km. Taxis are easily available.

Trichy Airport: Tiruchirapalli Airport or Trichy Airport is located on the NH 210 TiruchirapalliRameswaram highway, 5 km south of the city centre.

Must Stay: Expect world class amenities and a wonderful experience at Fortune Murali Park.

Vizag Must Try: Ganesh Bakery on VOC Road sells the famous macaroon.

Airport: Visakhapatnam Airport is located about 7 km from the city centre.

Must See: Palayamkottai road area surrounds the Lord Bhagam Priyal temple, Lord Shiva and Lord Perumal temples, WGC road.

Must Try: Dakshin at Hotel Daspalla serves South Indian Non-vegetarian buffet.

Must Try: For authentic south Indian cuisine one should visit the Banana Leaf restaurant near the central bus stand.

Must Stay: Fortune Inn Sree Kanya offers a home-away-from-home experience with services and rooms.

Must See: The landmark of the Trichy town is the Rockfort temple. It was around this area that the famous Carnatic war of the 18th century.

Varanasi

Must Stay: Situated on Mc Donald’s road, Breeze Residency is one of Trichy’s premier hotel.

Trivandrum Airport: The Trivandrum Airport is located at quite a central location and is one of the busiest airports of Kerala.

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Airport: Lal Bahadur Shastri Airport is 18 km from the city. Taxi and auto-rickshaw services are easily available.

Must Try: Satwik thali at Varuna located in Taj Ganges, are a perfect combination for a dinner.

Must See: Take a boat ride at the Dasaswamedh Ghat to enjoy the divine ambience to the fullest.

Must Stay: Keeping in mind the comfort of

Must See: Kambalakonda is a wonderful nature reserve, about 20-25 minutes’ away from Vizag.

Must Stay: The Gateway Hotel Beach Road Visakhapatnam is a comfortable hotel in Vizag.

Promotion

SpiceJet route

routemap

Srinagar

“Travel across the SpiceJet network�

Jammu

Delhi Kathmandu Bagdogra

Jaipur

Guwahati Varanasi

Agartala

Bhopal

Ahmedabad

Kolkata

Indore Surat Aurangabad Nanded

Mumbai Pune

Rajahmundry

Hyderabad

Vijayawada

Goa

Mangalore

Bengaluru

Calicut

Tirupati

Trivandrum

Madurai Tuticorin Colombo

www.spiceroutemag.com

Port Blair Chennai

Coimbatore

Kochi

166 June 2012

Vizag

Trichy

Fleet Guide

Welcome onboard India’s smartest and most affordable low-fare airline

SpiceJet mission

More and more people are flying for business and pleasure and everyone needs to save on time and money. SpiceJet’s mission is to ensure that flying is for everyone; both within the country and abroad. Our mission is to remain the most preferred low-fare airline, delivering the most competitive air fares with the highest consumer value.

Row 1 - 36

TECHNICAL DETAILS

BOEING 737-900ER

BOEING 737-800

Passengers (single class configuration) Engines (maximum thrust) Maximum Fuel Capacity Maximum Takeoff Weight Maximum Range Typical Cruise Speed ( at 35,000 feet)

212 CFMI CFM56-7B26 (26,300 lbs.)

6,875 U.S. gal (26,020 L) 167,000 lb (75,749 kg) 2,700 nautical miles (4,996 km) 0.78 Mach (511 mph) (823 km/h)

189 CFMI CFM56-7B24 (24,200 lbs.)

6,875 U.S. gal (26,020 L) 156,500 lb (70,987 kg) 3,060 nautical miles (5,665 km) 0.785 Mach (530 mph) (828 km/h)

112 ft 7 in (34.3 m) 117 ft 5 in (35.7 m) 138 ft 2 in (42.1 m) 41 ft 2 in (12.5 m) 11 ft 7 in (3.53 m)

112 ft 7 in (34.3 m) 117 ft 5 in (35.7 m) 129 ft 6 in (39.5 m) 41 ft 2 in (12.5 m) 11 ft 7 in (3.53 m)

Basic Dimensions Wing Span With Winglets Overall Length Tail Height Interior Cabin Width

SpiceJet’s new generation fleet of aircraft is backed by cutting-edge technology and infrastructure to ensure the highest standards in operating efficiency.

With maintenance support by Boeing IMM and state-of-the-art technology from world leaders like ‘Q’ pulse, Russell Adams there will be no compromise on safety, reliability or on-time travel.

For bookings, call our 24 hour SpiceJet call centre 1800 180 3333 / 987 180 3333 or visit our website spicejet.com 168 June 2012

www.spiceroutemag.com

Fleet Guide

Bombardier Q400, the new way to fly in comfort emergency exit

emergency exit

emergency exit

emergency exit

Basic Dimensions Wing Span Overall Length Tail Height Interior Cabin Width

TECHNICAL DETAILS

BOMBARDIER Q400

Passengers (single class configuration) Engines (Maximum Power) Maximum Fuel Capacity Maximum take-off weight Maximum Range Typical cruise speed

78 5071 SHP 5318 Kg 29,257 Kg 1013 Nm / 1878 Km @ 74 Pax LRC 360 Knots/ 666.72 Kmph

93ft 3in 107ft 9in 27ft 4in 99 in (Max)

Spice Schedule

Destination

flight no.

freq

dep

arrival

Agartala Bangalore (Via-CCU-HYD) Guwahati Hyderabad (Via-CCU) Kolkata Kolkata Mumbai (Via-CCU) Bangalore (Via-BOM) Bangalore (Via-PNQ) Bangalore (Via-PNQ) Chennai Chennai Chennai (Via-BOM) Chennai (Via-HYD) Coimbatore (Via-MAA) Delhi Delhi Delhi Goa Goa Guwahati (Via-BOM-BLR-CCU) Hyderabad Jaipur Jaipur Jaipur Kochin (Via-MAA) Kolkata (Via-BOM-BLR) Kolkata (Via-DEL) Mumbai Mumbai Mumbai Portblair (Via-HYD, MAA) Pune Pune Delhi Delhi Hyderabad Mumbai Mumbai (Via-NDC) Nanded Trivandrum (Via-BOM) Trivandrum (Via-NDC,BOM) Chennai (Via-CCU) Delhi Delhi (Via-GAU) Guwahati Kolkata Agartala (Via-HYD-CCU) Ahmedabad (Via-BOM) ahmedabad (Via-PNQ) Calicut Chennai Chennai

SG-872 SG-873 SG-872 SG-872 SG-874 SG-874 Ahmedabad SG-528 SG-345 SG-345 SG-281 SG-285 SG-206 SG-917 SG-281 SG-104 SG-106 SG-218 SG-137 SG-137 SG-528 SG-917 SG-342 SG-138 SG-138 SG-285 SG-528 SG-104 SG-528 SG-133 SG-206 SG-917 SG-345 SG-345 Aurangabad SG-162 SG-162 SG-1047 SG-161 SG-161 SG-161 SG-161 SG-161 Bagdogra SG-324 SG-885 SG-881 SG-881 SG-324 Bangalore SG-871 SG-529 SG-342 SG-3253 SG-3004 SG-3002

Daily Daily Daily Daily Daily Daily

1540 1300 1540 1540 1630 1630

2115 1400 1925 1645 1725 2045

Daily 1,2,3,4,5,6 7 Daily Daily Daily Daily Daily Daily Daily Daily 1,2,3,4,5,6 7 Daily Daily Daily 1,2,3,4,5,6 7 Daily Daily Daily Daily Daily Daily 1,3,4,5,7 1,2,3,4,5,6 7

555 2130 2145 0550 1510 1905 0610 0550 0700 0945 1945 1310 1410 0555 0610 0935 1750 1825 1510 0555 0700 0555 0915 1905 0610 2130 2145

920 0040 0040 0810 1730 2255 0935 0950 0830 1115 2115 1450 1540 1405 0745 1050 1905 1935 1905 1220 1125 0655 1025 2015 1225 2250 2255

2,6,7 1,3,4,5 Daily 2,6,7 1,3,4,5 1,3,4,5 2,6,7 1,3,4,5

1805 1930 0850 1020 0855 0855 1020 0855

2000 2115 1010 1110 1110 0935 1345 1340

Daily Daily Daily Daily Daily

1525 1040 1400 1400 1525

1855 1240 1805 1500 1625

Daily Daily Daily 1,3,4,5,7 Daily Daily

1010 1940 0555 1355 0930 2130

1510 2300 0905 1505 1025 2225

Destination

flight no.

freq

dep

arrival

Delhi Delhi Delhi Delhi Guwahati (Via-CCU) Hyderabad Hyderabad Jaipur (Via-BOM) Jaipur (Via-PNQ-AMD) Kolkata Kolkata Kolkata (Via-HYD) Mumbai Mumbai Pune Pune Pune Srinagar (Via-DEL) Vizag

SG-502 SG-224 SG-229 SG-216 SG-528 SG-871 SG-1045 SG-344 SG-342 SG-528 SG-524 SG-871 SG-344 SG-529 SG-342 SG-228 SG-228 SG-224 SG-1144 Bhopal

Daily Daily Daily Daily Daily Daily Daily Daily Daily Daily Daily Daily Daily Daily Daily 1,2,3,4,5,6 7 Daily Daily

0635 0845 1600 2015 0955 1010 2125 1015 0555 0955 2005 1010 1015 1940 0555 2155 2155 0845 0830

0925 1125 1845 2305 1405 1110 2250 1425 1050 1220 2235 1345 1200 2125 0725 2325 2330 1350 1030

Hyderabad Hyderbad (Via-IDR) Indore

SG-1053 SG-1063 SG-1063

1,3,5,7 2,4,6 2,4,6

2050 1950 1950

2245 2245 2030

Calicut Bangalore Chennai Chennai Hyderabad Trivandrum

SG-3254 SG-3252 SG-3252 SG-1012 SG-1011

1,3,4,5,7 2,6 1,3,4,5,7 Daily Daily

1220 1230 1530 2040 1810

1330 1405 1655 2225 1905

Ahmedabad Ahmedabad Ahmedabad (Via-BOM) Ahmedabad (Via-HYD) Bagdogra (Via-CCU) Bangalore Bangalore Calicut Coimbatore Coimbatore Delhi Delhi Delhi Delhi (Via-BOM-AMD) Delhi (Via-PNQ) Goa Goa Guwahati (Via-CCU) Hyderabad Hyderabad Hyderabad Jaipur (Via-HYD) Jammu (Via-HYD-JAI) Kochin Kochin Kolkata Kolkata Madurai

Chennai SG-282 SG-286 SG-106 SG-916 SG-323 SG-3003 SG-3148 SG-3251 SG-281 SG-283 SG-312 SG-304 SG-308 SG-106 SG-208 SG-277 SG-277 SG-321 SG-912 SG-1261 SG-916 SG-912 SG-912 SG-3241 SG-285 SG-321 SG-323 SG-291

Daily Daily Daily Daily Daily Daily Daily Daily Daily Daily Daily Daily Daily Daily Daily 2,6 1,3,4,5,7 Daily Daily Daily Daily Daily Daily Daily Daily Daily Daily Daily

1150 2110 0545 2000 1105 0745 2015 1030 0845 1915 0705 1140 1945 0545 0450 1400 1525 0535 0715 1100 2000 0715 0715 0555 1805 0535 1105 0830

1410 2330 0915 2310 1455 0840 2110 1155 0950 2015 0940 1425 2235 1115 0905 1535 1650 0950 0815 1210 2100 1045 1250 0710 1905 0745 1315 0930

SpiceJet now offers over 200 new connections on its existing network For details log on to www.spicejet.com

Destination

Madurai Mangalore Mumbai Mumbai Mumbai Portblair Pune Trichy Tuticorin Vizag Vizag

flight no.

SG-303 SG-3231 SG-106 SG-273 SG-296 SG-917 SG-208 SG-3163 SG-3291 SG-3271 SG-3277

freq

dep

arrival

Daily Daily Daily Daily Daily 1,3,4,5,7 Daily Daily Daily Daily Daily

1710 1330 0545 0955 2010 1025 0450 1725 0910 0620 1745

1810 1510 0730 1155 2155 1225 0630 1825 1035 0800 1920

Daily Daily Daily Daily Daily Daily Daily Daily Daily

1020 1020 2045 1515 1030 1810 1030 1810 1515

1410 1120 2145 1955 1430 2200 1150 1925 1655

Daily Daily Daily 1,3,4,5 2,6,7 Daily Daily Daily Daily Daily Daily Daily Daily Daily Daily Daily Daily Daily Daily Daily Daily Daily Daily Daily Daily Daily Daily Daily Daily Daily Daily Daily Daily Daily Daily

0715 1705 1945 0635 0755 1115 0545 0700 1250 1655 2040 0630 1350 1910 1705 2025 1010 0600 1340 1045 1455 0545 1520 1115 0600 0740 1340 1540 1940 0850 1430 0555 1200 0740 0915

0845 1835 2120 0825 0950 1325 0955 0940 1530 1940 2325 0915 1640 2150 2255 0040 1440 1000 1740 1310 1720 0810 1745 1500 0810 0950 1550 1740 2145 1010 1550 1035 1645 1150 1125

Coimbatore Ahmedabad (Via-MAA) Chennai Chennai Delhi (Via-BOM) Delhi (Via-HYD) Delhi (Via-HYD) Hyderabad Hyderabad Mumbai

SG-282 SG-282 SG-284 SG-264 SG-234 SG-236 SG-234 SG-236 SG-264 delhi

Ahmedabad Ahmedabad Ahmedabad Aurangabad Aurangabad Bagdogra Bagdogra (Via-GAU) Bangalore Bangalore Bangalore Bangalore Chennai Chennai Chennai Chennai (Via-AMD-BOM) Chennai (Via-PNQ) Coimbatore (Via-DEL) Coimbatore (Via-HYD) Coimbatore (Via-HYD) Goa Goa Guwahati Guwahati Guwahati (Via-IXB) Hyderabad Hyderabad Hyderabad Hyderabad Hyderabad Jammu Jammu Kochin (Via-BOM) Kochin (Via-BOM) Kochin (Via-HYD) Kolkata

SG-133 SG-206 SG-148 SG-161 SG-161 SG-881 SG-885 SG-501 SG-223 SG-209 SG-509 SG-301 SG-303 SG-309 SG-206 SG-219 SG-109 SG-211 SG-233 SG-253 SG-255 SG-885 SG-893 SG-881 SG-211 SG-231 SG-233 SG-221 SG-239 SG-851 SG-857 SG-131 SG-103 SG-231 SG-104

Destination

Kolkata Kolkata Madurai (Via-MAA) Mangalore (Via - STV - BOM) Mumbai Mumbai Mumbai Mumbai Mumbai Mumbai Mumbai (Via - STV) Mumbai (Via-AMD) Mumbai (Via-AMD) Mumbai (Via-IXU) Mumbai (Via-IXU,NDC) Nanded (Via-IXU) Pune Pune Pune Srinagar Srinagar Srinagar Srinagar (Via-IXJ) Surat Trivandrum (Via-IXU,BOM) Trivandrum (Via-IXU,NDC,BOM) Varanasi Varanasi Varanasi Vizag (Via-HYD)

flight no.

SG-212 SG-607 SG-303 SG-151 SG-131 SG-109 SG-103 SG-852 SG-119 SG-894 SG-151 SG-133 SG-206 SG-161 SG-161 SG-161 SG-217 SG-297 SG-219 SG-261 SG-868 SG-224 SG-851 SG-151 SG-161 SG-161 SG-116 SG-114 SG-127 SG-221

freq

dep

arrival

Daily Daily Daily Daily Daily Daily Daily Daily Daily Daily Daily Daily Daily 2,6,7 1,3,4,5 1,3,4,5 1,2,3,4,5,7 5,6,7 Daily 6 Daily Daily Daily Daily 2,6,7 1,3,4,5 Daily Daily Daily Daily

1420 2040 1350 0605 0555 1010 1200 1515 1740 2115 0605 0715 1705 0755 0635 0635 0835 1650 2025 0820 0910 1220 0850 0605 0755 0635 0935 1340 1820 1540

1620 2250 1810 1150 0740 1215 1410 1720 1940 2325 0920 1025 2015 1110 1110 0935 1045 1850 2230 0935 1035 1350 1115 0755 1345 1340 1100 1505 1945 1915

1,2,3,4,5,6 7 2,6 1,3,4,5,7 Daily Daily Daily 1,2,3,4,5,6 7 Daily Daily Daily

1520 1610 1605 1720 1340 1750 1415 1520 1610 1650 1330 1650

1655 1755 1740 1845 1610 2015 1545 1905 1935 2135 14 40 1800

Daily Daily Daily Daily Daily Daily Daily Daily Daily Daily Daily Daily Daily Daily Daily

1445 1435 0855 1435 1925 1535 1815 0855 1020 1435 1925 1445 1435 1815 1445

1545 2300 0955 1910 2315 1805 2040 1245 1130 1545 2035 1725 2125 2325 2045

GOA Ahmedabad Ahmedabad Chennai Chennai Delhi Delhi Hyderabad Jaipur (Via-AMD) Jaipur (Via-AMD) Kolkata (Via-BOM) Mumbai Mumbai

Agartala Ahmedabad (Via-CCU-BLR-BOM) Bagdogra Bangalore (Via-CCU) Chennai (Via-CCU) Delhi Delhi Delhi (Via-IXB) Kolkata Kolkata Kolkata Kolkata (Via-IXA) Mumbai (Via-CCU-BLR) Mumbai (Via-DEL) Mumbai (Via-IXA-CCU)

SG-138 SG-138 SG-278 SG-278 SG-254 SG-256 SG-1072 SG-138 SG-138 SG-804 SG-247 SG-804 Guwahati SG-874 SG-529 SG-885 SG-529 SG-322 SG-881 SG-894 SG-885 SG-525 SG-529 SG-322 SG-874 SG-529 SG-894 SG-874

173

Spice Schedule Destination

Mumbai (Via-CCU-BLR) Mumbai (Via-DEL) Mumbai (Via-IXA-CCU) Agartala (Via-CCU) Ahmedabad Aurangabad Bangalore Bangalore Bhopal Bhopal (Via-IDR) Calicut Chennai Chennai Chennai Coimbatore Coimbatore Delhi Delhi Delhi Delhi Delhi Goa Indore Indore (Via-BHO) Jaipur Jammu (Via-JAI) Kochin Kolkata Madurai Mangalore Mumbai Mumbai Mumbai Portblair (Via-MAA) Pune Rajahmundary Tirupathi Tirupathi Tirupathi Trivandrum (Via-CCJ) Varanasi (Via-DEL) Vijayvada Vijayvada Vizag Vizag Vizag Vizag Bhopal Hyderabad Hyderabad (Via-BHO) Ahmedabad Ahmedabad Ahmedabad Ahmedabad Bangalore (Via-AMD-PNQ) Bangalore (Via-AMD-PNQ) Bangalore (Via-BOM)

flight no.

SG-529 SG-894 SG-874 Hyderabad SG-871 SG-916 SG-1046 SG-1043 SG-872 SG-1063 SG-1053 SG-1011 SG-1262 SG-917 SG-913 SG-211 SG-233 SG-116 SG-226 SG-234 SG-108 SG-236 SG-1071 SG-1053 SG-1063 SG-912 SG-912 SG-231 SG-871 SG-1051 SG-1023 SG-403 SG-276 SG-402 SG-917 SG-1022 SG-1061 SG-1041 SG-1021 SG-1048 SG-1011 SG-116 SG-1001 SG-1003 SG-401 SG-1073 SG-1073 SG-221 Indore SG-1053 SG-1063 SG-1053 Jaipur SG-137 SG-137 SG-345 SG-345 SG-345 SG-345 SG-341

freq

dep

arrival

Daily Daily Daily

1435 1815 1445

2125 2325 2045

Daily Daily Daily Daily Daily 2,4,6 1,3,5,7 Daily Daily Daily Daily Daily Daily Daily Daily Daily Daily Daily Daily 1,3,5,7 2,4,6 Daily Daily Daily Daily Daily Daily Daily Daily Daily 1,3,4,5,7 Daily Daily Daily 1,3,4,5,6,7 Daily Daily Daily Daily Daily Daily 1,3,4,5,6,7 2 Daily

1140 2135 0720 0650 2015 1740 1740 1555 0600 0835 1820 0840 1625 0645 1030 1220 1435 1955 1225 1740 1740 0845 0845 1020 1140 1845 0940 0555 1430 2145 0835 2030 0935 0620 1505 1710 1555 0645 0705 1610 0715 1035 1645 1815

1510 2310 0830 0805 2115 1930 2030 1745 0725 0935 1915 1000 1740 0845 1240 1430 1645 2200 1355 1930 2030 1045 1250 1150 1345 2040 1115 0710 1555 2320 1225 2200 1040 0730 1630 1825 1905 1100 0800 1705 0820 1155 1825 1915

1,3,5,7 2,4,6 1,3,5,7

1950 2050 1950

2030 2245 2245

1,2,3,4,5,6 7 1,2,3,4,5,6 7 1,2,3,4,5,6 7 Daily

1115 1220 1950 2005 1950 2005 1500

1235 1340 2100 2115 0040 0040 1910

For bookings, please call our 24-hour SpiceJet call centre at 1800 180 3333/987 180 3333 or visit our website at www.spicejet.com

Destination

Chennai (Via-HYD) Goa (Via-AMD) Goa (Via-AMD) Hyderabad Jammu Mumbai Pune (Via-AMD) Pune (Via-AMD) Chennai (Via-JAI - HYD) Delhi Delhi Hyderabad (Via-JAI) Jaipur Mumbai (Via-DEL) Srinagar Ahmedabad (Via - MAA) Chennai Chennai Delhi (Via- BOM) Delhi (Via-BOM) Delhi (Via-HYD) Hyderabad Mumbai Mumbai Agartala Agartala Ahmedabad (Via-BLR-BOM) Bagdogra Bangalore Bangalore Bangalore (Via-HYD) Chennai Chennai Chennai (Via-DEL-PNQ) Delhi Delhi Delhi Goa (Via-BOM) Guwahati Guwahati Guwahati Guwahati (Via-IXA) Hyderabad Mumbai Mumbai Mumbai (Via-BLR) Pune (Via-DEL) Chennai Chennai Delhi (Via-MAA) Hyderabad Mumbai (Via-MAA) Chennai Chennai Delhi (Via-MAA)

flight no.

SG-913 SG-137 SG-137 SG-913 SG-912 SG-341 SG-345 SG-345 Jammu SG-913 SG-852 SG-858 SG-913 SG-913 SG-852 SG-851 Kochi SG-286 SG-3242 SG-286 SG-118 SG-112 SG-108 SG-108 SG-112 SG-118 Kolkata SG-873 SG-871 SG-529 SG-323 SG-523 SG-529 SG-872 SG-324 SG-322 SG-219 SG-608 SG-606 SG-219 SG-803 SG-321 SG-528 SG-883 SG-873 SG-872 SG-803 SG-874 SG-529 SG-219 Madurai SG-304 SG-296 SG-304 SG-1052 SG-296 Mangalore SG-3232 SG-152 SG-1024 t

freq

dep

arrival

Daily 1,2,3,4,5,6 7 Daily Daily Daily 1,2,3,4,5,6 7

1515 1115 1220 1515 1120 1500 1950 2005

1815 1450 1540 1715 1250 1645 2250 2255

Daily Daily Daily Daily Daily Daily Daily

1320 1310 1625 1320 1320 1310 1040

1915 1430 1740 1715 1445 1720 1115

Daily Daily Daily Daily Daily Daily Daily Daily Daily

1940 0735 1940 1840 1120 1235 1235 1120 1840

2330 0850 2040 2315 1620 1645 1400 1320 2040

Daily Daily Daily Daily Daily Daily Daily Daily Daily Daily Daily Daily Daily Daily Daily Daily Daily Daily Daily Daily Daily Daily Daily

1130 1415 1645 1355 0715 1645 1720 1655 2105 1710 0720 1155 1710 0805 0840 1250 1745 1130 1720 0805 1800 1645 1710

1220 1510 2300 1455 0935 1910 2115 1855 2315 0040 0930 1410 1920 1300 0950 1405 1855 1400 1925 1120 2045 2125 2230

Daily Daily Daily Daily Daily

1000 1840 1000 2100 1840

1105 1940 1425 2255 2155

Daily Daily Daily

1135 1225 1530

1305 1750 1710

Note Schedule subject to change and regulatory authority approvals.

1- Mon, 2-Tue, 3-Wed, 4-Thu, 5-Fri, 6-Sat, 7-Sun.

Spice Schedule Destination

Mumbai Surat (Via - BOM) Agartala (Via-CCU) Ahmedabad Ahmedabad Ahmedabad Aurangabad Aurangabad (Via-NDC) Bangalore Bangalore Chennai Chennai Chennai Coimbatore Delhi Delhi Delhi Delhi Delhi Delhi Delhi (Via - STV) Delhi (Via-AMD) Delhi (Via-AMD) Delhi (Via-IXU) Delhi (Via-NDC,IXU) Goa Goa Guwahati (Via-BLR-CCU) Guwahati (Via-CCU-IXA) Hyderabad Hyderabad Hyderabad Jaipur Jammu (Via-DEL) Kochin Kochin Kolkata Kolkata Kolkata (Via-BLR) Madurai (Via-MAA) Mangalore Nanded Srinagar (Via-DEL IXJ) Surat Trivandrum Trivandrum Varanasi (Via-DEL) Vizag (Via-HYD) Aurangabad Delhi (VIA-IXU) Mumbai Trivandrum (Via-BOM) Chennai Ahmedabad Bangalore Bangalore Bangalore Chennai Delhi Delhi Delhi Hyderabad Jaipur (Via-AMD) Kolkata (Via-DEL) Hyderabad

flight no.

SG-152 SG-152 Mumbai SG-873 SG-106 SG-218 SG-529 SG-162 SG-162 SG-528 SG-341 SG-291 SG-274 SG-206 SG-109 SG-851 SG-114 SG-112 SG-264 SG-136 SG-118 SG-152 SG-106 SG-218 SG-162 SG-162 SG-803 SG-248 SG-528 SG-873 SG-401 SG-275 SG-408 SG-344 SG-851 SG-131 SG-103 SG-873 SG-804 SG-528 SG-291 SG-151 SG-162 SG-851 SG-152 SG-161 SG-161 SG-114 SG-401 Nanded SG-162 SG-162 SG-161 SG-161 Port Blair SG-272 Pune SG-342 SG-227 SG-345 SG-345 SG-219 SG-208 SG-212 SG-298 SG-1025 SG-342 SG-212 Rajahmundry SG-1062

freq

dep

arrival

Daily Daily

1225 1225

1350 1520

Daily Daily Daily Daily 2,6,7 1,3,4,5 Daily Daily Daily Daily Daily Daily Daily Daily Daily Daily Daily Daily Daily Daily Daily 2,6,7 1,3,4,5 Daily Daily Daily Daily Daily Daily Daily Daily Daily Daily Daily Daily Daily Daily Daily Daily 1,3,4,5 Daily Daily 1,3,4,5 2,6,7 Daily Daily

0745 0810 1810 2200 1645 1645 0740 1730 0605 1625 2105 1250 0550 1055 1415 1745 2015 2110 1435 0810 1810 1645 1645 1200 1515 0740 0745 0515 1235 2120 1240 0550 0835 1450 0745 1855 0740 0605 1025 1645 0550 1435 1140 1145 1055 0515

1220 0915 1915 2300 1735 1900 0920 1910 0755 1815 2255 1440 0755 1255 1620 1955 2220 2315 1750 1115 2115 2000 2115 1300 1620 1405 1400 635 1355 2240 1425 1010 1035 1645 1040 2135 1220 0930 1150 1750 1115 1520 1340 1345 1505 0820

1,3,4,5 1,3,4,5 1,3,4,5 1,3,4,5

1820 1820 1005 1005

1900 2115 1110 1340

1,3,4,5,7

1255

1450

Daily Daily 1,2,3,456 7 Daily Daily 1,2,3,4,5,7 5,6,7 Daily Daily 1,2,3,4,5,7

0755 0645 2320 2325 2300 0700 1115 1920 2220 0755 1115

0905 0815 40 40 40 0905 1320 2100 2340 1050 1620

Daily

1100

1155

Destination

flight no.

Bangalore (Via-DEL) Delhi Delhi Delhi Delhi (Via-IXJ) Jammu Mumbai (Via-IXJ-DEL) Delhi Mangalore (Via - BOM) Mumbai Hyderabad Hyderabad Hyderabad Pune (Via- HYD) Vizag Bangalore (VIA-Chennai) Chennai Aurangabad (Via-BOM) Aurangabad (Via-BOM,NDC) Calicut Delhi (Via-BOM,IXU) Delhi (Via-BOM,NDC,IXU) Hyderabad (Via-CCJ) Mumbai Mumbai Nanded (Via-BOM) Chennai Coimbatore (Via-DEL-HYD) Delhi Delhi Delhi Hyderabad (via-DEL) Mumbai (Via-DEL) Hyderabad Hyderabad Bangalore Chennai Chennai Delhi (Via-HYD) Hyderabad Hyderabad Hyderabad Hyderabad Mumbai (Via-HYD) Tirupathi

Srinagar SG-209 SG-262 SG-869 SG-209 SG-852 SG-852 SG-852 Surat SG-152 SG-151 SG-151 Tirupati SG-1042 SG-1044 SG-1022 SG-1022 SG-1076 Trichy SG-3148 SG-3148 Trivandrum SG-162 SG-162 SG-1012 SG-162 SG-162 SG-1012 SG-162 SG-162 SG-162 Tuticorin SG-3292 Varanasi SG-233 SG-233 SG-119 SG-128 SG-233 SG-119 Vijayawada SG-1002 SG-1004 Vizag SG-1077 SG-3272 SG-3278 SG-226 SG-226 SG-1074 SG-1074 SG-402 SG-402 SG-1075

freq

dep

Daily 6 Daily Daily Daily Daily Daily

1435 1010 1125 1435 1155 1155 1155

1940 1135 1250 1605 1420 1240 1720

Daily Daily Daily

1600 0835 0835

1750 1150 0920

Daily 1,3,4,5,6,7 Daily Daily 1,3,4,5,6,7

0750 1255 1850 1850 1650

0905 1415 2010 2200 1825

Daily Daily

1855 1855

2110 1955

1,4,1,5 1,4,1,0 1,9,2,5 1,4,1,5 1,4,1,0 1,9,2,5 1,4,1,0 1,4,1,5 1,4,1,0

1415 1410 1925 1415 1410 1925 1410 1415 1410

1735 1900 2020 2000 2115 2225 1610 1615 1750

Daily

1055

1220

Daily Daily Daily Daily Daily Daily

1130 1130 1535 2015 1130 1535

1740 1250 1655 2200 1550 1940

Daily Daily

0820 1725

0915 1820

Daily Daily Daily Daily Daily 2 1,3,4,5,6,7 Daily Daily 1,3,4,5,6,7

1850 0820 1940 0850 0850 1100 1220 1945 1945 1100

2050 1005 2130 1240 1000 1235 1345 2100 2320 1235

INTERNATIONAL SCHEDULE Destination

Colombo Colombo Chennai Chennai Kathmandu Delhi

flight no.

freq

Chennai SG-3101 1,2,4,5,6,7 SG-3101 3 Colombo SG-3102 1,2,4,5,6,7 SG-3102 3 Delhi SG-045 Daily Kathmandu SG-046 Daily

arrival

dep

arrival

1300 1540

1440 1730

1525 1815

1650 1935

1540

1725

1825

2000

• SpiceJet flies to 34 domestic destinations covering the north, south, east and west of India. Whether you are flying for business, visiting friends or planning a holiday, SpiceJet is the smart way to travel. • SpiceJet now flies to 2 international destinations.

Offices

SpiceJet Offices Corporate Office SpiceJet Limited, 319 Udyog Vihar, Phase - IV, Gurgaon 122 016, Haryana Tel: +91 124 3913939 Fax: +91 124 3913844 Customer Services Vice President: Shraboni Mitra, Customer Services E-mail: shraboni.mitra@spicejet. com, custrelations@spicejet.com Reservations Toll Free: 1-800-180-3333 and 987-180-3333 Regional Heads North & Central India and Nepal Rahul Bhatkoti email: rahul.bhatkoti@spicejet. com East Mitali Borgohain email: mitali.b@spicejet.com West Rajesh H Singh email: rajesh.singh@spicejet.com TAMIL NADU R. Ranjeev email: r.ranjeev@spicejet.com Andhra Pradesh: Nelash Godara email: nelash.godara@spicejet. com

Agartala Station Manager: Rajesh Kumar Singh Address: Spicejet Ltd., C.A. Agartala Airport, Agartala - 799009 (Tripura) Email: rajesh.s@spicejet.com Ahmedabad Station Manager: Digvijay Wala Address: Spicejet Ltd., SVP International Airport, Ahmedabad 380003 (Gujarat) Email: Digvijay.wala@spicejet.com Aurangabad Station Incharge: Keshav Moktali Address: Spicejet Ltd., New ATS Complex, Jalana Road, Aurangabad Airport, Aurangabad (Maharashtra) Email: keshav.moktali@spicejet. com Bagdogra Station Incharge: Saurav Raj Thapa Address: Spicejet Ltd., Civil Aerodrome, Bagdogra, Siliguri-734421 (West Bengal) Email: saurav.thapa@spicejet.com Bangalore Station Incharge: Vivek Godbole Address: Spicejet Ltd., Bangalore International Airport, Devenhalli, Bengaluru - 560300 (Karnataka) Email: vivek.godbole@spicejet. com 178 June 2012

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Bhopal Station Incharge: Faraz Siddiqui Address: Spicejet Ltd., Raja Bhoj Airport, Bhopal (Madhya Pradesh) Email: Faraz.Siddiqui@spicejet.com Calicut Station Incharge:Sajith kannoth Address: SpiceJet Ltd., Calicut International Airport, Malapuram – 673647 (Kerala) Email: sajith@spicejet.com Chennai Station Manager: J. Venkatramakrishnan Address: Spicejet Ltd., Kamraj International Airport, Chennai (Tamil Nadu) Email: j.venkat@spicejet.com Coimbatore Station Manager: Johnson George Address: Spicejet Ltd., Civil Aerodrome, Coimbatore 641014 (Tamil Nadu) Email: johnson.george@spicejet. com Colombo Station Incharge: M Arun Address: Spicejet Ltd., Bandarnaike International Airport,Colombo (Sri Lanka) Email: arun.m@spicejet.com Goa Station Manager: Vrushiket Bhise Address: Spicejet Ltd., Goa International Airport, Dabolim-403801 (Goa) Email: vrushiket.bhise@spicejet. com Guwahati Station Manager: Debasish Choudhury Address: Spicejet Ltd., Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport, Guwahati (Assam) Email: Debasish.choudhury@ spicejet.com Hyderabad Station Manager: Nelash Godara Address: Spicejet Ltd., Rajiv Gandhi International Airport, Shamshabad (Andhra Pradesh) Email: nelash.godara@spicejet. com Indore Station Incharge: Pavitra Shukla Address: Spicejet Ltd., DABH Airport, Indore (Madhya Pradesh) Email: pavitra.shukla@spicejet.com Jammu Station Manager: Deepak Koul Address: Spicejet Ltd., Jammu Airport,Civil Enclave Jammu (J&K) Email: deepak.koul@spicejet.com Jaipur Station Manager: Brijendra Sinsinwar

Address: Spicejet Ltd.,Civil Airport Sanganer, Jaipur (Rajasthan) Email: brijendra.sinsinwar@spicejet. com Kathmandu Station Officer: Bhagwati Devi Address: Spicejet Ltd., Tribhuvan International Airport, Kathmandu (Nepal) Email: bhagwati.devi@spicejet.com Kochi Station Manager: Shamon P.S Address: Spicejet Ltd., Cochin International Airport Limited, Kochi (Kerala) Email: shamon@spicejet.com Kolkata Station Manager: Sagarnath Das Address: Spicejet Ltd., NSCBI Airport, Kolkata - 700052 (West Bengal) Email: sagarnath.das@spicejet.com Madurai Station Manager: VP Dipak Kumar Address: Spicejet Ltd., Madurai Airport, Madurai - 625022 (Tamil Nadu) Email: vp.dipak@spicejet.com Mangalore Station Incharge: C.M.Biddappa Address: Spicejet Ltd., Bajpe Airport, Mangalore (Karnataka) Email: biddappa@spicejet.com Mumbai Station Manager: Naved Patel Address: Spicejet Ltd., Chhatrapati Shivaji International Airport, Mumbai (Maharashtra) Email: naved.patel@spicejet.com New Delhi Station Manager: Sumant Rautela Address: Terminal 1D, IGI Airport, Palam (Delhi) Email: sumant.rautela@spicejet. com Nanded Station In charge : Mahavir Gaur Address: Spicejet Ltd., Shri Guru Gobing SinghJi Airport, Nanded – 431605 (Maharashtra) Email: mahavir.gaur@spicejet.com Port Blair Station In charge: R. Ranjeev Address: Spicejet Ltd., Veer Sawarkar International Airport, Port Blair (Andaman & Nicobar Islands) Email: r.ranjeev @spicejet.com Pune Station Manager: Adil Palia Address: Spicejet Ltd., Civil Enclave Pune Airport, Lohegaon, Pune 411032 (Maharashtra) Email: adil.palia@spicejet.com Rajahmundry Station Incharge: T.Sandeep Address: Spicejet Ltd.,Rajahmundry

Airport, Madhurapudi - 533103 (Andhra Pradesh) Email: sandeep.tatineni@spicejet. com Srinagar Station Manager: Irfan Hussain Kanth Address: Spicejet Ltd., Srinagar Airport, Srinagar (J&K) Email: irfan.kanth@spicejet.com Surat Station Manager: Sharique Shaikh Address: Spicejet Ltd.,Surat Airport, Surat (Gujarat) E-mail id: Sharique.shaikh@ spicejet.com Tirupati Station Incharge: N Nagaraju Address: Spicejet Ltd., Civil Aerodrome, Tirupati-517520 (Andhra Pradesh) Email: n.nagaraju@spicejet.com Trichy Station Incharge: C.N.Kishore Address: Spicejet Ltd., Tiruchirapalli Airport, Tiruchirapalli - 620007 (Tamil Nadu) Email: cn.kishore@spicejet.com Trivandrum Station Incharge: A.C.Ratheesh Address: Spicejet Ltd., Trivandrum International Airport, Thiruvananthapuram - 695008 (Kerala) Email: ratheesh.ac@spicejet.com Tuticorin Station Manager: R. Raajeev Address: Spicejet Ltd., Civil Aerodrome, Tuticorin-628103 (Tamil Nadu) E-mail id: r.rajeev@spicejet.com Varanasi Station Manager: Rajul Srivastava Address: Spicejet Ltd., L.B.S. Airport, Babatpur, Varanasi 221006 (Uttar Pradesh) Email: rajul.srivastava@spicejet. com Vijayawada Station Incharge: Devendra Sunkara Address: Spicejet Ltd., Vijayawada Airport, Gannavaram - 521102 (Andhra Pradesh) Email: devendra.sunkara@spicejet. com Vizag Station Manager: Attanur Prasad Address: Spicejet Ltd.,Visakhapatnam Airport, Visakhapatnam - 530009 (Andhra Pradesh) Email: attanur.prasad@spicejet. com

Medica Institute of Critical Care (MICC) Life...Better, Safer & Humane

C

ritical care medicine is the multidisciplinary healthcare specialty that cares for patients with acute, life-threatening illness or injury. Medica Institute of Critical Care is a comprehensive unit housed by highly skilled specialists in Critical Care and specially trained nurses & technicians, supported by the most advanced technology in the field MICC is the largest Critical Care facility in eastern India with specified ICUs for cardiothoracic surgery, trauma & orthopedics, neurology & neurosurgery, cardiology, surgical, renal transplant & nephrology, gastric surgery & gastroenterology and others It has the support of modern equipment backed by skilled, specially trained staff It provides round- the- clock premium patient care for adults and children In house consultants are available 24x7 for critically ill patients MICC provides the best possible treatment & management facilities for:  Post Resuscitation Care Obstructive Airway Disease Management  Brain Trauma Care  Seizure Management Stroke MI  Heart Failure Arrhythmia Sepsis Acute Kidney Injury Post Organ Transplant Electrolyte Emergencies  Diabetic Emergencies Critical Care Specialists Dr. Sauren Panja Dr. Arindam Kar

MD, DNB, FNBE (Critical Care), EDICM, FCCP (USA) Director MICC

MD (Medicine), FNBE (Critical Care), EDICM Sr Consultant & Coordinator, MICC

127, Mukundapur, E M Bypass, Kolkata 700099, Phone: 033 66520000, Fax: 033 24264967 e-mail: contactus@medicahospitals.in, www.medicahospitals.in

VOYAGERS

For further information, contact:

Spice bites

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Chicken Tikka Kathi Roll Chicken Tikka Stuffed Tandoori Aloo Veg Seekh Kababs Chicken 65 Dal Wada Cheese & Paprika Puff

Gobi 65 Dal Wada Cheese & Paprika Puff Paneer Tikka Stuffed Tandoori Aloo Veg Seekh Kababs Paneer Tikka Kathi Roll

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Spice bites Bites

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Bits & Bytes/gadget

184 July 2011

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Volume Vl Issue VI June 2012

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The inflight magazine of SpiceJet

GROUP

JUNE 2012

Sri Lankan odyssey FOR OUR NEW FRESH AND HOT MEALS Turn to pg. 180

In conversation Nandita Das, Subodh Gupta