High 5 Volume 6/ Issue 6

VOLUME 6 I ISSUE 6 I NOVEMBER-DECEMBER'18

Files Style ’s

Indiance e Influ lobal On Ghion Fas

THE LIGHT OF LOVE AND HOPE DLF5 Residents Usher In A Spirit Of Change

PLUS: ✱ The Best Ways To Prep Up For Winter

Globe Trotting

Picturesque Tales From Across The World

Dear Resident, It will soon be time to bid goodbye to 2018 and we have much to be thankful for. The year has passed us by in a blur but that is not really surprising because it is just a consequence of the pace of life in the metropolis. What is noteworthy though, is the quantum of effort we manage to put in during that period of twelve months.

This has been a very significant year for us. Amongst some of the highpoints of the year that was, are the inauguration of the office of the Assistant Commissioner of Police and a Cyber Crime police station in DLF5.

Ensuring safety of our residents is one of the key ways in which we live up to our credo of DLF5 being an ideal place to live, work and play. Putting all our energies into creating a green cover that provides superior air quality and abundant open spaces for our residents is another. We are blessed to be so close to nature while living in the heart of Millennium City.

There is a sense of joy that underscores life in DLF5 and that happiness is meant to be shared. This year, we decided to extend the spirit of the festive season to less privileged sections of society. The thought manifests itself in the Spread Hope initiative where we appealed to the residents to point towards their charity of choice and identified three causes that need our attention in love and kind. The residents of DLF5 have been exceedingly generous in helping us contribute towards this initiative and your unstinting efforts are the primary reason behind the difference we have collectively made.

This edition of High5 is an overview of the spectrum of life in DLF5. It features the finest homes, picture perfect destinations, the best of music, movies and fashion and outstanding epicurean delights. We have expert advice on fitness and for those who love the great outdoors, we have a feature on jungle treks that is an exhilarating read.

Speaking of wonderful experiences, we are about to move into what promises to be a glorious winter and that will be another great factor to be thankful for. Let us count our blessings.

Aakash Ohri Senior Executive Director DLF Home Developers Limited

www.dlf 5 .in

1

Follow us on :

/ DLF5 I

/@MyDLF5 I

/@MyDLF5

Anchal Ghosh ghosh-anchal@dlf.in M : +91 9971777207 Burda Media India Private Limited Plot No. 378-379, Second Floor, Udyog Vihar - Phase IV, Gurugram, Haryana - 122015 Tel: 0124 3083500 Chief Editor & Publisher Parineeta Sethi Publishing Director Simon Clays Editor Sam Lal Features Writer Sudeshna Roy Creative Director Anuradha Sen Junior Designer Keshav Gupta Advertisement & Contribution Enquiries Pallav Mishra Email: pallavpushparaj@gmail.com M : +91 8826767265

12 HAUTE HOMES

Aman and Harinder Singh Hora’s home at The Aralias is a beautifully conceptualised oasis of luxury, refined sensibilities and serenity

20 COVER STORY DLF5 adds a shine to the sparkle of festivities with its Spread Hope movement

Manager Swapnil Choudhary Email: swapnil.choudhary@burda.in M : +91 9811487020 Production Ritesh Roy – Production Director Manoj Chawla – Manager Burda Media India Private Limited is a company of the Hubert Burda Media Group.

Hubert Burda Media India CEO: Björn Rettig MD India: Massimo Monti Hubert Burda Media Board Member International: Martin Weiss Burda International Holding GmbH Legal Address: Hubert Burda Platz 1 77652 Offenburg, Germany

57 THE ROAD LESS TRAVELLED The Western Ghats prove to be an ideal spot to quench your thirst for natural beauty

Postage address: Arabellastrasse 23 D-81925 Munich, Germany High5, a bi-monthly magazine for DLF5 by DLF Limited, is printed and published by Parineeta Sethi on behalf of Burda Media India Private Limited for DLF Limited and printed at Galaxy Offset India Pvt. Ltd. B-83, Naraina Industrial Area Phase-II, New Delhi 110028. High5 magazine is published six times a year. All rights reserved.

The writing artwork and/or photography contained herein may not be used or reproduced without the express written permission of Burda Media India Private Limited.

Burda Media India Private Limited 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 of Burda Media India Private Limited or DLF Limited. All efforts have been made while compiling the content of this magazine, but we assume no responsibility for the effects arising there from.

2

high 5

24 EN VOGUE

Know how India continues to exert an influence on International fashion trends Cover Photograph by Deepak Kumar Creative Direction by Anuradha Sen

contents

30 RESIDENT TRAVELOGUE

Blessed with balmy weather, incredible natural beauty and historical edifices, Croatia is a wonderland that you must explore

8 TOP5 FOR HIGH5

during the cold months

Multiply the happiness quotient with these lovely gifts this festive season

48 AUTO MANIA

10 TOP SHELF Celebrate the mirth in the air with the finest statements in luxury

34 RESIDENT SHOWCASE Read the journey of Art4U, an art platform by DLF5 resident Pooja Singh

40 WELLNESS Know how music ensures our well-being by providing us with calmness and serenity

73 FITNESS CENTRAL Learn the secrets to a healthy life with these high impact exercise programmes

4

high 5

44 BEAUTY Learn the science of taking proper care of your hair

BMW X3 has upped the style proportion with its outstanding driving dynamics

60 CINEMASCOPE Read on to know how celluloid influences the way we dress

66 SACRED SPACE Our heritage tradition enables us to look for peace even in turbulent times

76 EVENTS Celebration of Durga Puja at DLF5, Hero Cup, Felicitaion of Steve McCurry at The Quorum and more

contributors

ADITI GOSWAMI

KRISHAN KALRA

T.K MUKHERJEE

SUBODH BHARDWAJ

A Learning Consultant with an MNC by profession, Aditi Goswami is passionate about reading, writing and gardening. Based in Gurugram, Aditi considers herself a coffee addict.

An engineer by training, Krishan Kalra has worked in the corporate world for 38 years after which he served as the Additional Secretary General for FICCI and later as Secretary General of the PHD Chamber of Commerce and Industry.

A resident of DLF5 T.K. Mukherjee is a Chartered Accountant, a Ford Foundation Fellowship awardee, a Management Consultant, an HR specialist, and a Corporate Governance Advisor.

A practicing astrologer for over two decades, Subodh Bhardwaj is a numerologist, palmist and Vastu specialist with impeccable command over gems and precious stones.

SUNIL JAIN

SHANTANU CHATTERJEE

CHIARA LO FARO

Sunil Jain is a Gurugram-based

Shantanu is a graphic design and advertising professional who has worked with some of the leading advertising agencies in India. He teaches Communication Design at a University. A passionate traveller, he also loves to study history and architecture.

A polyglot, Chiara is an Italian

practising Chartered Accountant.

He has been a member of PHD Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Confederation of Indian Industries and other prestigious bodies. He provides pro bono consultations related to taxations.

6

high 5

residing in DLF5 and working in the banking sector. Being professionally trained in piano for over 20 years, she enjoys playing western classical music and singing Hindi songs in her free time.

World’s best

Furniture

TWIGS DIRECT

D I R E C T F RO M WA R E H O U S E

T W I G S D I R E C T. C O M S I YAT H O U S E S E C - 7 6 G U R G A O N

PH: 971-TDIRECT i.e. 971-8347328

top5 for high5

WRAPPED IN LOVE

Festivals call for sharing precious moments with our loved ones. Let us multiply the happiness quotient with gifts that spell love and speak from the heart

D

o you know that the history behind gifting during Christmas originates from the presents given to Jesus by the three wise men: Frankincense, Gold and Myrrh? It is now, of course, a global phenomenon and children believe in a red-suited gift-bringer.

There are people who believe in St. Nicholas, Santa Claus or Father Christmas, but in parts of Germany they believe in the Christkind, in Spain they believe in the Wise Men even as in parts of Italy, it is believed that the harbinger of gifts is an old lady called Befana. The custom of hanging stockings comes from the story of St. Nicholas. With Christmas at our doorstep we put together some gifting ideas for you.

ETERNAL FAMILY TREE NECKLACE: Talking of festivities and celebrations as part of special occasions, it is the presence of each and every member of the family that counts and takes pride of place in every household. It is important to let every individual feel important

to strengthen the familial bond. Let your loved ones celebrate all those they hold dear with a design inspired by the Celtic tree of life. With leaves sparkling with bright birthstones, this is a magical gift to bestow on dear ones to wish them— and their family—a long life.

100 GOOD WISHES BABY QUILT: A newborn child makes for a beautiful addition to any family. It is a given that everyone bestows the little angel with love and blessings for a blissful future. A custom that originated in China, the “100 Wishes Quilt” or Bai Jia Bei, was originally created by having friends contribute a quilt each, as an expression of love for the newborn. This modern take on tradition is sure to be a treasured heirloom, one that parents and baby will love.

8

high 5

INDOOR HERB GROWING KIT: There can be no better way to celebrate Christmas than by gifting your family and friends something that is fresh and green, an attractive element of decor and also packed with health benefits. A green and ambient surrounding can do wonders to your health. Also, while preparing a tasty spaghetti sauce or classic chicken cacciatore, why not add a sprig of fresh oregano from your own Italian herb garden? This kit features everything you need to organically grow some of the most popular herbs in Italian cooking.

INFINITY BIRTHSTONE BRACELET: The beauty of your never-ending love is exquisitely expressed by a sleek forever bracelet.

The graceful infinity symbolshaped pendant embraces a pair of birthstones—representing the two of you—that bring extra sparkle to your pledge of everlasting togetherness.

THE MORE THE MERRIER CHRISTMAS GIFT BASKET: This gift collection is overflowing with delicious reasons to celebrate. Outdo Santa with this unforgettable feast of Christmas favourites. It is packed with holiday flavours like English toffee and chocolate covered cherries. Add to it some fresh fruits to create a gift that will add joy to the festivities.

www.dlf 5 .in

9

top shelf

CHRONOMETER MARVELS The latest offering by Patek Philippe, from its Ellipse d’Or range is sure to please millennial watch enthusiasts who prefer sublime colours for their timepieces. The new ticker features a rosegolden frame, with an ebony black sunburst dial which highlights the timeless beauty of the Ellipse d’Or. A work of art in itself, the exclusive design of the watch comes with a manual winding movement.

CAPTIVATING BIJOUTERIE Raniwala 1881’s latest 'jadau' and 'polki' collections showcase the finest craftsmanship accentuated by precious stones. The vibrant hues and exceptional brilliance make it an indispensable adornment this festive season. The collection is characterised by exceptional design sensibility and bold placements of effervescent jewels which reflect the beauty of old-world designs coupled with a charm of contemporary taste.

DEBONAIR EMBELLISHMENT Da Milano’s new sling bag is an amazing choice to flaunt this festive season. Made of the highest quality leather, the bag comes with a trendy and compact look. The golden sling will complement your dazzling appearance perfectly while adding shine to your festive outfit.

10

high 5

FESTIVE PICKS

We are now in the middle of the season of celebrations where every day brings with it a reason for good cheer. We bring you the finest statements in luxury to help you express your happiness

REFINED STRIDE Designed exclusively for the style-conscious, new age male, Corneliani’s latest footwear collection offers fine styling that updates the classic template for contemporary times. The dark brown Oxfords are crafted from the finest leather and are guaranteed to add an air of sophistication to your formal outfits.

HAPPY GIFTING This Diwali, ditch the traditional confectioneries for Body Shop’s assorted gift hampers. The selection offers a range of products comprising of ingredients from around the world – British Rose, Almond Milk and Shea Butter to name a few. These are customisable and you can get expert tips while making your own hamper.

DAINTY BEQUEST Anaqa Jewels, in association with Momentz, has come up with an exclusive range of silver gifting options for the upcoming festive season. The collection offers options like dry fruit stands, Ganesha idols, exquisite photo frames to mention a few. These intricately crafted accessories with ornate designs are perfect to share the joy during these times of celebration.

ELEGANT FRAGRANCE French luxury brand Hayari Parfums Paris has recently launched its floral collection in India. Symbolising luxury, feminity and contentment, the handcrafted collection showcases an appealing blend of enduring sophistication. The fragrances – Only for Her, Brodery and Goldy are complemented by sensual notes of sandalwood, amber and patchouli.

DECOR HAVEN Hermosa Design Studio’s state-of-the-art modular furniture units are just right for discerning homeowners. They offer a one-stop solution to all interior decorating needs with furniture that is built for comfort and durability. The aesthetic ideology of these furnishings is nuanced with subtlety, at the same time keeping a festive flair about them.

www.dlf 5 .in

11

haute homes

Aman and Harinder Singh Hora with their daughters Rabia and Rabani

12

high 5

PERFECTION EMBODIED

Aman and Harinder Singh Hora’s home at The Aralias is a beautifully conceptualised oasis of luxury, refined sensibilities and serenity

BY SAM LAL | CREATIVE DIRECTION BY ANURADHA SEN | PHOTOGRAPHS BY DEEPAK KUMAR

T

o encounter exceptional beauty, or perfection, is to come face-to-face with a moment where time stands still. This is, by no means, an imagined state because psychologists have been studying the phenomenon and actually have a term for it. They call it the Affect Heuristic. In layman terms, an Affect is a feeling that needs no further analysis. It is so powerful that it doesn’t need words or symbols and is capable of setting a mood or tone by sheer visual impact.

Aman and Harinder Singh Hora’s home at The Aralias certainly creates the Affect Heuristic. It is, quite simply, breathtaking. A compelling confluence

www.dlf 5 .in

13

haute homes

Ishwin Singh Hora

Most of the artwork at the Hora residence is about a connection between the old and the new. This Mukesh Sharma canvas features modern day Maharajas

14

high 5

of high impact objet d’arts and a very sophisticated sense of aesthetics, this is a home that epitomises the power of first impressions. The Hora residence, where Aman and Harinder live with their daughters, Rabia and Rabani and their son Ishwin Singh Hora, is about an admirable sense of balance. It is a luxuriously appointed home but it is not ostentatious. Rather, it is graceful, welcoming and undeniably uplifting.

We arrive at the front door which features an ornate design and provides a small glimpse of what lies beyond. However, even though, we were expecting a beautiful home, nothing could have prepared us for the rush of details that greet us as soon as we step inside.

The door opens and we enter a magnificent lobby which features a sonorously gushing water body.

Right next to it is a grand staircase that leads to the upper level and

even as we are busy marvelling at the juxtaposition of the wonderfully natural sound of flowing water inside a modern apartment, our eyes shift to the other side where a brilliantly colourful Rajneesh Kaur canvas occupies pride of place.

There is a table right underneath it, on which rests a fairly sizeable amethyst, a harbinger of positivity and good fortune in many cultures across the world.

The lobby also offers a stunning

www.dlf 5 .in

15

haute homes

Here is another depiction of transition by Mukesh Sharma where the wheels of what appears to be farm equipment, morphs into a highrise building and a lady working on a laptop

16

high 5

view of the emerald expanse of DLF’s Gary Palmer Black Knight course and it is a sight one can keep gazing upon, forever. We spot an identical twin of the front door design on the deck which looks out over the golf course. In fact, mirrored motifs are a recurrent theme throughout the house.

We look up and there is an exquisite multiple-ringed chandelier suspended from the ceiling which wouldn’t be out of place in an art gallery. There is a sense of balance and finesse to it that is almost artisanal in nature and is further evidence of the homeowners’ discerning eye. It is at this point that we are joined by our hosts and we complement them on their beautiful home.

“We moved here six years ago,” says Aman, a transformational coach.

“This home is our attempt to create wholesomeness out of nothingness and that has been the core thought behind the way our home looks.”

We make our way past an elegantly crafted mirror and into the living room which has a broad L-shaped layout and offers another fabulous view of the golf course. FN Souza’s iconic, ‘The Last Supper’ hangs on the wall and we speak to our hosts about the artwork in their home.

“There is a lot of art here which has been specially commissioned by us,” says Harinder Hora, a real estate entrepreneur who specialises in mega scale projects. “We wanted to create a home that was beautiful but we didn’t want it to look like a fancy hotel

"This home is our attempt to create wholesomeness out of nothingness and that has been the core thought behind the way our home looks" either. On the other hand, we didn’t want it to be empty walls and floors. It had to be a space that would continue to evolve with us.”

Judging by the way the Hora residence looks it is certain that the family has succeeded in capturing the effect it had set out to achieve. The home is vibrant, undeniably gorgeous and brimming with positivity. The couple credit interior designer Monica Chawla of Essentia Environment in helping them realise their vision of an ideal home and as the sun goes down and the lights go up, we cannot help but marvel at the finely wrought state of perfection that binds the home together.

“We feel very blessed to be here,” says Aman, and there can be no summation better than that.

www.dlf 5 .in

17

cover story

A TIME FOR CHANGE

Festivals are a time of great joy and they are also the time for sharing that happiness. DLF's Spread Hope movement is a step in this direction

BY SAM LAL

18

high 5

www.dlf 5 .in

19

cover story

W

e, as a society, thrive on conversation. It is certainly one of the key aspects that defines our sociocultural DNA and that is wonderful because as Edward Gibbon, author of the monumental, The History of the Decline and Fall of the Roman Empire once stated, “Conversation enriches understanding.�

There is a wealth of positives that can be attributed to a good exchange of

20

high 5

thoughts and ideas between a group of people, but the most significant of them all is perhaps the fact that conversations pave the way for actions. Band Aid, one of the greatest humanitarian efforts in history, was the result of a conversation between Sir Bob Geldof and his partner Paula Yates who were so moved by the plight of famine-stricken Ethiopia, they decided to do something about it.

This festive season, DLF decided to strike a new conversation with its residents. It has been a long-standing

tradition at DLF5 to send its residents a gift as festive greetings. This year, taking a break from tradition, the company did something new, something perhaps, more meaningful.

During the time of festivity and togetherness, DLF decided to contribute in a manner which would let the abundance of light find its way into the hearts of people that really need it.

Towards this end, it selected three NGOs that are rendering stellar service in their chosen spheres of work and made

The Happy School, a school for underprivileged children was started in 1998, in the front lawn of Ms. Kamal Kapoor with five children of the construction workers of Silver Oak Apartments.

The school has grown by leaps and bounds. It now has a library, a computer room, sports facilities, dance, music, karate, yoga, etc

a contribution on behalf of its residents to these causes. It also appealed to its residents to donate generously to these NGOs and the result has been a massive outpouring of love that has crystallised in the shape of the Spread Hope Initiative.

Reaching out to senior citizens, underprivileged children and endangered wildlife, Spread Hope is an initiative that is truly special and marks a watershed moment for those who need a little benevolence, love and hope in their lives.

You Make A Life By What You Give Winston Churchill once remarked that you make a living by what you get and you make a life by what you give. DLF5 residents have echoed the thought in 2018. “We work hard throughout the year and festivals are the time when you stop and you take a look around,” says Mansi Malik, a resident of The Icon, DLF5.

“You are with your family and loved ones and it makes you think about other people that may not be as fortunate.”

During the time of festivity and togetherness, DLF decided to contribute in a manner which would let the abundance of light find its way into the hearts of people that really need it www.dlf 5 .in

21

cover story

22

high 5

An act of kindness goes way beyond the materialistic because it creates a bond that is unshakeable. Yes, one does need all the basic amenities but there is a lot more than that

a resident of Princeton Towers. “The smiles that you get from the people there and the genuine warmth that we shared made us very happy to be a part of such an initiative where we can make a difference where it is needed the most.”

“Festivals are a time that make you feel good,” adds Subir Gupta, another resident who has contributed to the Spread Hope initiative. “It makes you feel even better when you reach out to people other than your friends and family.

It gives you a warm feeling of satisfaction inside.”

The Earth Saviours Foundation is an internationally recognised NGO, situated in Gurugram, Haryana, India.

It was founded in 2008 by Ravi Kalra

Ushering In A Change According to Subir Gupta, there has been a remarkable change in people in the last few years where words like philanthropy, charity and altruism are not just tokenisms but qualities and actions that are becoming a way of life. “My wife and I have believed in doing our best to try and make a difference to someone’s life in any

way we could,” he says. “Therefore, what we have done for the last 20 years is that we have never spent any money on crackers and that is the money we have contributed towards various causes.”

It must be mentioned here that there is a basic difference between philanthropic acts and acts of charity because while the former focuses on eliminating social problems, the latter works towards eradicating the effects of those problems. Both have a major role to play in improving society and they both have to experienced first-hand.

“We went to the Earth Saviors Foundation,” says Puneet Chaturvedi,

The Joy Of Giving There have been a number of social experiments conducted over the years and they have conclusively established one aspect – the act of giving is one of those rare phenomena in the world that does not have a downside. It instills a sense of gratitude in the recipient and it is a source of profound joy to the giver.

An act of kindness goes way beyond the materialistic because it creates a bond that is unshakeable. Yes, one does need food and clothes and all the basic amenities necessary for a human being to live but there is a lot more than that. “Go an extra mile,” says Puneet Chaturvedi. “Spend some time with the people you are trying to help and share all the goodness from the heart. The good vibrations will be amazing.”

“Only giving can make you feel real happiness,” says Mansi, and that, is the true essence of times of celebration.

www.dlf 5 .in

23

en vogue

INDIA IN THE SPOTLIGHT

With noted Indian designers draping international celebrities, even as the country proves to be inspiration for international fashion brands, establishes India as a force to reckon with

BY SHARMI ADHIKARY

24

high 5

D

o I need to drill in that in Indian fashion, anything is a glory if it has to do with celebrity dressing!

Bollywood is passé, you see. I’m talking about the razzle dazzle of Hollywood!

You remember Beyonce Knowles’s turn on the red carpet at the Wearable Art Gala in March this year? Dressed like a Nubian warrior queen, she created quite a stir amongst the India media. Reason?

The structured gold metallic gown with an impressive train was the handiwork of Indian couturiers Falguni and Shane Peacock, who crafted that surreal couture in close discussion with the ‘Lemonade’ hit queen’s personal stylist Marni Senafonte. Looks, the Mumbaibased duo have dressed up international A-listers such as Jennifer Lopez, Katy Perry, Lady Gaga, Rihanna, Paris Hilton and Fergie. Phew!

Manish Arora, the couturier famous for his unconventional penchant for indigenous art, embroidery and striking colours, has dressed up Katy Perry, Nikki Minaj and supermodel Heidi Klum. In rather unique creations.

The Spring 2016 collection of Elie Saab was influenced by colonial India.

Alpana & Neeraj’s aesthetics might not have cut much ice on Indian shores but the duo has a fan in Lady Gaga. The singer and performer’s eclectic, and sometimes outrageous, taste in clothes is hardly news anymore. The icon has been opting for Alpana & Neeraj’s structured and geometric silhouettes often. And, while they were satiating Gaga’s fetish for the bold and head-turning, they also made the right noise by adding X Factor judge Nicole Scherzinger to their global client list. Woot Woot!

Bollywood’s darling, Manish Malhotra has a steady stream of global fangirls in Kate Moss, Demi Moore, Reese Witherspoon and Naomi Campbell. In

www.dlf 5 .in

25

en vogue

fact, the Ghost superstar rang in her 50th birthday five years ago in a scintillating Malhotra lehenga at Abu Dhabi!

But the arc lights shine brightest on Naeem Khan, the Indian-American designer based out of New York. Khan is a regular for all the Perrys and Klums, is a Cannes specialist and features on all the top red carpets of the world. He has dressed up the likes of Jane Fonda, Vanessa Hudgens, Mandy Moore, Rachel McAdams, Diane Lane, Anne Hathaway and Adriana Lima. Naeem Khan nudged into the international fashion fraternity’s consciousness when Michelle Obama wore his custom-made creation at the India State Dinner in 2009. Since then Obama has opted for Khan again and again. The next big one was the Duchess of Cambridge. Kate Middleton, wore a simple but pretty white and blue Naeem Khan ensemble when she visited the Taj Mahal in 2016. But I guess, he really had arrived when Obama turned up in that peach and silver beauty.

26

high 5

Be it through culture and traditions, art and architecture – India has always been different, omnipresent and has continuously inspired

Naomi Campbell sporting a Manish Malhotra creation

Kanchipuram silk sari as the centrepiece of an elegant ball gown. A classic case of versatile reinterpretation this. DKNY incorporated Bishnupur Baluchari silk into their fitted black dress, with Donna Karan saying, “The graphic red is so DKNY—vibrant, energised, colourful.”

Be it through culture, traditions, religious spirit, art and architecture – India has always been different, omnipresent and has continuously inspired the world. At the Milan Fashion Week last year, Cavalli T-shirts with prints of Indian gods made headlines. Giorgio Armani put out jodhpuri trousers, and Roccobarocco paid tribute to Bollywood with prints of hand-painted posters on shirts.

Michelle Obama wears Naeem Khan's creation

India-Inspired Looks like there is a budding romance between international celebrities and Indian designers, Indian craft and design techniques. Maybe this adoration is the reason why a host of international couture labels have been toying with Indian inspirations and influences for some time now. The Spring 2016 collection of Elie Saab was influenced by colonial India.

Although neutral in colour, the richness was maintained with heavy Indian style embroidery and familiar draping of fabrics over the shoulder mimicking sarees and dupattas. Marchesa is another couture name that has regularly paid tribute to Indian textiles in their designs.

In their Spring 2013 collection they had Indian drapes resembling the sari. Long, full brocade skirts had jewelled and gilded embellishments.

The story goes that once upon a time, Indian Maharajas order trunks and luggage from a little company called Louis Vuitton. In 2010, the company decided to celebrate its historical connection to India with the Diwali Collection. Designer Marc Jacobs, the creative head of Louis Vuitton at the time worked with Rajeev Sethi, a pioneer in modernising Indian art, to repurpose vintage Indian saris sourced from Mumbai, Delhi, Chennai and Bangalore into skirts, dresses and shorts.

Louis Vuitton also enlisted traditional Indian craftsmen to create custom fabrics with their signature logo woven into them.

For Vogue India’s Fiftieth Anniversary ‘Project Renaissance’ in 2012, the iconic Burberry trench coat was recreated with handwoven Maheshwari silk fabric. For the same project, Alberta Ferretti used a

Let’s rewind to Alexander Mcqueen’s Fall 2008 collection that was a marriage of his gothic sensibility and impeccable British tailoring and details from lavish Indian couture. The use of Indian jewellery on gothic looks, dresses made of sari silks, embroidery of Indian motifs on frothy gowns created a breathtaking fantasy.

India’s contribution to global fashion is undeniable. Headgears, bindis, nosepins, juttis, saris, embroidery, indigo prints and what not. Then there was Indira Gandhi in her starched saris making a mark everywhere she went in the world.

The former Indian prime minister used the garment to communicate nationalism and seriousness. Her saris were in khadi, a fabric that played an important role in the Indian independence movement, which encouraged Indians to weave their own cloth as a form of economic empowerment to oppose British rule.

If Gandhi’s was the no-nonsense silhouette, Raj Kapoor’s heroines were about breezy charm. I wonder whether Nargis, the leading lady in Awara (1951), influenced women’s fashion in Russia, Africa, East Asia and the Middle East (the film was a roaring success there). Well, at this point, I really wish I could time-travel.

www.dlf 5 .in

27

Package

Hotel & Swiss Travel Pass

Package

Hotel & travel itinerary

Included

Uunlimited travel by train, bus and boat within all of Switzerland Free entrance to 500+ museums 50% reduction on most mountain railways

Included

Train journey Zurich Airport – Lucerne – Interlaken – Zurich Airport Excursions to the Mount Titlis and the Jungfraujoch

Highlights

Highlights

Niederdorf (old town of Zurich) Boat trip on Lake Zurich Zurich’s home mountain Uetliberg

Mount Titlis cliff walk Glacier experience on the Jungfraujoch Old town of Lucerne

Package

Hotel & Swiss Travel Pass

Package

Hotel & travel itinerary

Included

Unlimited travel by train, bus and boat within all of Switzerland Free entrance to 500+ museums 50% reduction on most mountain railways

Included

Train journey Zurich Airport – Zermatt – Chur – Zurich Airport including seat reservation on the Glacier Express excursion to the Gornergrat

Highlights

Highlights

Chapel bridge – the town’s landmark Mount Rigi with 360-degree panorama Boat trip on Lake Lucerne

Views of the Matterhorn from the Gornergrat Chalet village Zermatt Journey on the Glacier Express panoramic train

*Packages start from as low as INR18,000

resident travelogue

HEAVEN ON EARTH Blessed with balmy Mediterranean weather, breathtaking natural beauty and archaic edifices, Croatia offers a throbbing cosmopolitan culture imbued perfectly with the charm of a bygone era

BY CHIARA LO FARO

30

high 5

W

hen my cousin informed me earlier this year that she would soon be getting married, I could not have been happier.

When she told me the ceremony would take place in a village of 500 inhabitants on top of a hill, only reachable on foot, with just literally a church, few houses and a little hotel, in the middle of Croatia, I thought: couldn’t she have possibly found a more easily reachable place?

If we think about beautiful destinations in Europe, the first places that usually come to mind are France and Italy, followed by Greece, perhaps. I am yet to meet that person who dreams of going to Croatia. But as it turns out, this country has all the reasons to stand on the

winners’ podium of beautiful countries to visit.

Whether it is a picturesque landscape with good food and vineyards you enjoy the most, or a stunning green and blue lagoon, or the beauty of old Roman architecture and modern history, Croatia has it all. Rather, it has more!

As we had no other option but to find a way to reach the village of Motovun, we saw that the most convenient airport for us was Venice in Italy, from which we would take a car, drive through Slovenia and reach Croatia. Crossing countries sounded cumbersome. Instead, it was just a four-hour drive. Google Maps showed us that we had entered a new country, and there was literally no sign and certainly no policeman to check passports.

View from an island

www.dlf 5 .in

31

resident travelogue

If we go back to our not so old memories, of the Nineties, we will remember how a strong power used to sit in the middle of Western Europe: Yugoslavia. Home to just four million inhabitants today, Croatia recently gained popularity as one of its main cities, Dubrovnik, was selected as the shooting location for the Game of Thrones episodes. We may, at times rightfully, disapprove of the commercial use of historical places, but if we think that just 20 years ago the same city walls were subject to different kinds of shootings, well, it is comforting.

Once the wedding was over, we moved on to a Croatia discovery tour. Motovun itself, the little medieval village surrounded by city walls, vineyards and forests, is definitely worth the effort, and it is one of the most known places of the Istrian peninsula or, as the locals call it, the Tuscany of Croatia.

The region was, until WWII, part of Italy, and before that, of the Venetian Republic.

For history and food lovers like myself, this is an amazing combination. Istrian food is a sort of Italian cuisine with a Croatian touch, mostly a truffle one. As it turns out, this bird shaped country is one of the world’s capitals of truffle, and anything and everything has a truffle version: truffle pizza, truffle pasta, truffle soup, truffle cheese, truffle omelette, truffle meat, truffle sauce and so on. The entire peninsula is bilingual, Croatian and Italian, and almost everyone speaks English. Locals often like to talk about their memories of old times.

Recent history still plays a major role in all of Istria, as many people were part of the resistance movement during WWII. The figure of Marshal Tito is generally well perceived, as evidenced by different statues or memorial plates to his name.

We decided to move further south in Istria and travelled on a two-coache train to the harbour city of Pula, where, besides having its own arena, I was surprised to see a Roman temple next to a Venetian baroque two-storied building, in turn adjacent to a palace of the Austro-Hungarian

32

high 5

Zagreb Main Square View From Hvar

All images by Chiara Lo Faro Hvar

Split Harbour

Croatia recently became famous as one of its cities, Dubrovnik, was selected as the filming location for GoT episodes empire. As the locals like to remember, this is a place where today’s kids are born in the Democratic Republic of Croatia, their parents were born in communist Yugoslavia, their grandparents in the Austro-Hungarian empire and their greatgrandparents in the Ottoman empire.

Just three hours away by bus is the capital, Zagreb, located in the centre of Croatia. Like other European capitals, it is beautiful and cosmopolitan with continental tastes and imposing palaces.

The recent Croatia Homeland War in the 90s, has left a scar in everyone's minds.

Thirty year olds of today remember their childhood which was spent hiding amidst bomb blasts, the reason for which today Croatians do not burst firecrackers.

We finally moved to Split in the southern region of Dalmatia, a city built around the remains of a Roman complex. As it turns out, Roman Emperor Diocletian left his post in the fourth century AD and decided to settle on the peaceful, sea facing city of Split. One hour away from the harbour are a series of islands, some uninhabited, each covered in green vegetation and surrounded by transparent lagoons.

Different species of fish station there, and they don’t seem scared coming close to you as you snorkel. A series of natural blue caves are hidden within the rocks of the islands and can be accessed only on tiny boats, that too by bending your head down as you enter. A fortress on top of the island of Hvar gives a breathtaking view of the archipelago. As you go back, the image you are left with, is that of a solitary sailboat, facing the horizon, pushed by the sea breeze, under a clear blue sky and floating on deep blue waters.

www.dlf 5 .in

33

resident showcase

ETCHED IN BEAUTY

Art4U, an offline initiative by Pooja Singh, a resident of The Magnolias, started off as online venture and is now spreading its wings as a comprehensive art platform

BY SAM LAL

W

e are in the heart of Millennium City and The Beatles are crossing the road. Wait a minute, though. Is this some kind of a scientific experiment involving holograms? Are we in some sort of alternate parallel? Because The Beatles cannot possibly be crossing the street in Gurugram in the current context.

As it turns out, they actually could be if you happen to be at the Art4U store at the Grand Mall where an amazing

34

high 5

artistic rendition of the Fab Four crossing Abbey Road hangs proudly. An initiative of psychologist and Nichiren Buddhism follower Pooja Singh, Art4U is a fantastic platform for art which is fuelled by the motto, ‘No Bare Walls.’

“As the name suggests, it is art for you, which means it has been designed keeping diversity in mind,” explains Pooja as she ushers us inside a very tastefully done up space, simultaneously classic and modern. “With such a varied

population of people with varying tastes, it was important for us to showcase a wide spectrum.”

Art4U therefore, features 24 subjects with over 30,000 images to choose from. “It has something for everyone,” says Pooja.

“Be it individual requirement for homes, to offices, to restaurants, hotels and condominiums. We touch life.”

The seeds of this platform were sown three years ago when the family realised

The popularity of the online proposition gave Art4U an impetus to progress further and that is when it acquired its newest avatar of a phsyical store

that the penetration of technology allowed them the opportunity to increase the range of their product offering exponentially. “We are a 50 year old, family owned furniture company called Newage,” she explains. “Back in the day, we used to import prints from Singapore and there was great demand for the same. But, at the same time, it required huge inventory and there used to be big time restriction of sizes as well.” Therefore, Art4U started off as a virtual store and www.art4u.com was an instant success. “All the art at our website is licensed, which means we pay royalty to the artists for our prints,” says Pooja. “All our media is procured from Germany and yet, with the highest emphasis on quality and ethics, we have still kept our prices very friendly. It is a venture that ensures there are no bare walls and no thinning wallets.”

The popularity of the online proposition gave Art4U an impetus to progress further and that is when it acquired its newest avatar of a physical store that is also an art advisory and experiential centre. “It is important for a person to see how a piece of art would look when placed alongside furniture and furnishings. It forms a big part of the decision making process and is at the top of the list of considerations.” Indeed, because, it gives them valuable insight into acquiring a work of beauty and its important because art is eternal.

www.dlf 5 .in

35

resident showcase

CAMPUS CALLING

The Magnolias resident Sonali Mohan and her co-author Shalu Gupta release the second edition of their book which provides valuable insights into the admission processes of American colleges

BY SAM LAL

36

high 5

T

he numbers are in and they brook absolutely no argument.

The United States of America are the preferred destination for undergraduate students across the world when it comes to pursuing higher studies.

There are multiple reasons for it and they go slightly deeper than the enhanced job prospects which are an inherent advantage of American education.

Sonali Mohan of The Magnolias puts it in perspective. “The American education system is designed to bring out the best in a human being,” she says. “That is the reason why the US application system is completely different from admission processes across the world.”

Sonali is the author of The Updated Comprehensive Step By Step Guide To US Undergraduate Admissions. It is a book she has co-authored with her fellow Magnolias resident Shalu Gupta. The first edition of the book was published in 2013

by Scholastic and the new imprint, released this year, has been published by Crossword/ The Write Place and is available at Crossword stores and online platforms, Flipkart and Amazon.

“The American education system is designed to engage, develop and expand

The American education system is designed to bring out the best in a human being, the reason why the application system here is different from admission processes across the world the sensibilities of a student,” says Sonali who is a Harvard Certified academic counsellor with focus on undergraduate education in the United States. “There are 900 courses available across the four years of undergraduate studies, which means students can opt for courses which they really want to pursue as opposed to going for whatever is available.”

The Updated Comprehensive Step By Step Guide is a detailed compendium that guides a prospective student through all the insights needed to receive a campus call from the most sought after colleges in the world.

www.dlf 5 .in

37

resident showcase

PRODIGIOUS TALENT

Her remarkable artistic imagination and the assuredness of her paintings completely belie the fact that Mehr Dhawan is just seven years old

BY SAM LAL

S

tepping into the Dhawans’ living room at The Magnolias is a bit like setting foot inside a time machine which immediately transports us to New York of the late Forties where Jackson Pollock was pioneering his instantly recognisable Drip Technique. It is absolutely surreal because we are looking at 'Rollercoaster of the Royal Fair', a painting

38

high 5

that Mehr Dhawan finished a couple of months ago, and it pulsates with the same elemental fire that made Pollock one of the most important artists of his generation.

However, that is not the astonishing part.

No, what needs to be taken note of here is that Mehr is just seven and has been painting for the last four-and a-half years. Her

Shaandaar Indiawale Monica and Mehr Dhawan

Rollercoaster of the Royal Fair

Switzerland school has organised an exhibition where 15 of her paintings were displayed and she has already sold two of her creations.

Now, strange as it may sound, while this is applause worthy statistical data, it too, is not the key point we are trying to make.

Vase by Mehr

The most significant aspect of Mehr’s art is the absolute assuredness, poise and flair that marks her work.

It is the most eloquent indicator of her talent

The most significant aspect of Mehr’s art is the absolute assuredness, poise and flair that marks her work. It is, most decidedly, not easy to accomplish and it is, perhaps, the most eloquent indicator of her prodigious talent. She walks in, completely oblivious of the fact that we have still not been able to come to terms with the fact that the array of fine art before us has been created by a child and not a venerable master. But, when it comes to discussing her paintings and her craft, Mehr takes very little time to establish the fact that she is an extraordinary talent.

Talking about 'Rollercoaster of the Royal Fair', Mehr says, ‘I created a base of grey

and purple and I used a bit of orange so when I used the roller they all merged. Then I started playing with orange, pink and yellow.” Monica Dhawan, Mehr’s mom, listens to the conversation and stands next to her daughter in quiet encouragement.

“Mehr loves to listen to music when she paints,” she says, as the young artist skips to another one of her creations.

'Happy Snakes' is about baby snakes who love flowers and 'The Dragon and Its Mommy' is about a baby dragon who finds his mother with the help of an angel. “When I am painting, I feel I am dancing,” she says. “It’s my passion, like when you do it from the heart.”

Then, she is off playing with her hula hoop like any other seven-year old, unaware once again, that we are thankful for having met an artist who might, one day, be amongst the most important voices of her generation.

www.dlf 5 .in

39

wellness

SOUNDS OF WELLNESS

In the bustling pace of everyday life, music provides an oasis of calm and serenity which, in turn, leads to a tremendous feeling of well-being

BY SAM LAL

40

high 5

T

he fact that music has an intrinsic connection with a feeling of well-being is not a recent discovery. It was fairly evident to William Congreve when he was writing The Mourning Bride as far back as 1697. The author credits music with the ability to “soften rocks and bend a knotted oak.” Two acts of tremendous compelling power, nearly impossible even in the metaphorical context.

Music, without a doubt, has the innate ability to wield tremendous influence and its emotional impact cannot truly be gauged. Therefore, when used to bring about positivity, the sound of music is an excellent instrument.

It has now been proven beyond any doubt that music has deep-rooted links with wellness and acts as a multiplier in activities that promote physical and mental health. Take the case of the music and fitness workouts. Jennifer Buchanan who holds a Bachelor of Music Therapy degree says there is insurmountable evidence that the right music helps us exercise better by up to 15per cent. In fact, there have been a number of athletes who state emphatically that they need music to run or they would simply stop midstride.

The sound waves work at a purely mental level too. Research has now established that music is a powerful tool to keep our memories in fine fettle. “What seems to happen is that a piece of familiar music serves as a soundtrack for a mental movie that starts playing in our head,” says Petr Janata, cognitive neuroscientist at the University of California. “It calls back memories of a particular person or place and you might, all of a sudden, see that person’s face in your mind’s eye.”

This is a significant piece of information because it establishes music as a clearly defined tool for keeping memories sharp.

It also makes a very strong case for itself as one of the key measures for enhancing

Music has the innate ability to wield tremendous influence and its emotional impact cannot truly be gauged. When used to bring about positivity, the sound of music is an excellent instrument

www.dlf 5 .in

41

wellness

auditory nutrition. All of us, whether directly or indirectly, are recipients of thousands of sounds during the day.

A lot of them do nothing for our wellbeing. Blaring sirens, honking, constantly ringing cellphones, people shouting are just a few of the sounds that are a part of everyday routine. There is nothing we can do to eliminate those sounds but we can certainly add something that nourishes our aural senses. This is where music steps in.

Scientific data has clearly established the fact that certain kinds of music have the ability to soothe the human brain while certain others may act as stimulants.

There is a theory that music is hardwired into our DNA and humans have been making music almost ever since they came into existence. Archaeologists in Germany found remains of 35,000 year old flute in 2008 and ancient philosophers gave a lot of thought to the mathematical beauty of musical compositions. Listening to music, quite clearly, has a whole range of benefits.

The quality of sleep is one of them. Just to step out on the proverbial tangent

Research has now established that music is a powerful tool to keep our memories in fine fettle

for a bit, consider how little thought we give to resting our body and mind because the demands of contemporary urban living require us to keep pushing ourselves as hard as we possibly can.

This creates the very real possibility of opening ourselves to a wide range of ailments that are the result of prolonged sleep deprivation.

Music not only relaxes us, it also provides us great sleep quality which manifests itself in the shorter time taken to fall asleep, longer sleep duration and enhanced sleep efficiency which means we do not wake up in the middle of the night for absolutely no reason whatsoever.

We do not know the precise moment in time when humans started creating music. In fact, Charles Darwin thought about it a lot. He believed that music evolved as a primordial love song. That may or may not be the case but what is absolutely clear is that the art of creating and appreciating music is a divine gift and that is the reason why it never fails to give us a feeling of tremendous joy.

42

high 5

THE PERFECT WHITE

State-of-the-art infrastructure and a highly skilled team of professionals, The Dental Roots is defining the future of dentistry Dr. Dheeraj Setia with Miss Asia Pacific World 2013 Srishti Rana

There are many ways to describe excellence but legendary American sports coach Pat Riley perhaps describes it the best.

“Excellence,” he says, “is the gradual result of always striving to do better.” It is impossible to disagree especially when we walk into the wonderful airy lobby of The Dental Roots in Sushant Lok, Gurugram.

It takes some getting used to the fact that we are, in fact, in the middle of a medical facility because The Dental Roots could be anything from an art gallery to a plush, five-star resort.

However, this is very much a centre dedicated to cutting-edge dental science. Headed by Dr. Dheeraj Setia, who holds a Masters degree in Conservative and Endodontic Dentistry and is a Diplomat of the American Academy of Implant Dentistry, The Dental Roots is the realisation of Dr. Setia’s vision of establishing centres that focus on specialised dental care and treatment.

The Dental Roots Team with Rannvijay Singh

As a dental practitioner who was Head of Department at the prestigious Apollo Clinic before setting up his own practice, Dr. Setia understands the importance of concise diagnosis and effective treatment, The Dental Roots, consequently, is fully equipped with an in-house lab and specialises in painless RCTs, implants and smile makeovers. It is this excellence which finds people from all across the world flying in to consult at The

Dental Roots. Perhaps the single biggest factor that separates The Dental Roots from others, is its commitment to keep its patrons at the forefront. Everything about this facility has been designed to create maximum comfort and with a philosophy of minimally invasive dentistry as its credo, The Dental Roots is a centre of progress where science and art combine to create benchmarks in modern dentistry.

THE DENTAL ROOTS GURUGRAM - A-738, Sushant Lok-I Near Galleria Market Gurgaon-122001 Tel: 0124-4040003/4 M: 9650440004 DELHI -15/7, Sarva Priya Vihar, Near Hauz Khas Metro Station New Delhi-110017 Tel: 011-40540004 M: 9891255501 EMAIL: drdheerajsetia@yahoo.co.in WEBSITE: http://www.thedentalroots.com/

beauty

THE MANE MATTER

The winter chill is more than welcome after the scorching heat of the summer. However, it does require us to exercise great care to ensure our crowning glory does not lose its lustre

BY SUDESHNA ROY

I

n our country, winter has always been synonymous with festivity.

With the sudden nip in the air, we sense a transition of the weather and onset of delightfully cold months.

When Diwali is just around the corner and Christmas bells are not far away, we all want to look bright and celebratory.

We all like to flaunt our shiny, healthy hair and look our best with different hairstyles that would go well with different outfits. Unfortunately, the

44

high 5

harsh sun of the winter day can make us end up with that frizzy tangle, messy mane and embarrassing flakes from the scalp, which may cause a hindrance in flaunting that crowning glory. However, we can avoid getting our hair damaged and still indulge in winter festivity if we remember these important aspects of taking proper and scientific care of our tresses. Here we round up some of the most recurrent hair problems during winter and how to banish them.

www.dlf 5 .in

45

beauty

Scratch The Itch Winter is that time of the year, when the fall in temperature takes a serious toll on our health. The skin becomes dry and dead skin cells start surfacing. This drying is not limited to the skin, it is also a common problem with the scalp. In order to compensate for the dryness, the oil glands in the scalp become over-active and start producing excessive oil. This provides the perfect condition for the growth of the Malassezia fungus, which leads to the occurrence of tiny white flakes all over our hair and shoulder along with an itchy scalp – in short, dandruff.

Solution: In order to prevent dryness of the scalp, we need to oil it at regular intervals. Statutory warning: Do not use excessive oil, because we will have to wash our hair multiple times which, in turn, will leave hair dry and frizzy. According to Dr. Kiran Godse, Consultant Dermatologist, Hiranandani Hospital, Vashi – A Fortis Network Hospital, Mumbai, “Use good anti-dandruff shampoo at least two to

three times a week, which would contain Ketoconazole and Zinc Pyrithione (ZPTO) in it. Use a mild shampoo thrice a week and do proper conditioning afterwards.”

Indulgence Mantra Winter is that time of the year when one festival follows the other in quick succession and suddenly we are in the carpe diem state of mind – living each day to the fullest. This is also the time when we brave the dust and harsh winter sun and binging on restaurant food, unhealthy snacks and drinks. Following this erratic food consumption, the intake of essential nutrients gets compromised which leads to weakening of hair roots and eventually, hair fall.

Solution: Even if one is in continuous food haul and missing out on a good, nutritious diet, make sure to carry some essential dietary supplements whenever

46

high 5

Use mild and nourishing shampoo that contains shea butter, argan and jojoba oil, at least thrice a week. Try using wooden combs instead of plastic ones

you are out. “Carry walnut, almond, flax and pumpkin seeds – foods that contain rich source of HDL (good fat) and Omega3 fatty acids. It will help strengthen the roots of your hair,” advises Dr. Arushi Passi Bhandari, Head of Aesthetics and AntiAgeing, Intelligent Ageing, New Delhi.

Using non-greasy, oil-free sunscreen spray also adds shine to our mane and protects it from direct sunlight.

The Frizz Factor The dryness in the air during winter soaks up the moisture in the hair and makes it appear lacklustre and frizzy. Also, during the cold season, we often get tempted to

wash our hair in hot water, which strips the hair of natural humidity. Hair damage takes place as the outer follicle of hair gets broken and as a result, we are left with a frizzy and dull mane.

Solution: According to Dr. Bhandari, “The only solution is to drink plenty of water throughout the day. Instead of gulping down a lot of water at one time, sip water continuously so that your body stays hydrated and your scalp too.”

Salon Effect How we style our hair, along with the styling tools we use, can cause

significant hair damage. Hair colouring and using heat will not cause hair loss but it damages the cuticles of hair to a massive extent. Chemicals and heat used to dye, bleach, straighten or perm the hair can cause the shaft to break off, resulting in temporary hair thinning and female pattern hair loss. Excessive heat damages the protein-building component of hair along with hydrogen and di-sulfide bonds. As a result we get brittle, frizzy and dull hair.

Solution: Always use heat protection sprays on your damp hair before you blow-dry it, suggests Dr. Bhandari. Each of the strands should be well coated with heat protection spray to avoid breakage and consequent damage. You can also choose a live-on conditioner. For people with damaged hair, Olaplex treatment can be effective because it helps in deep conditioning of our locks as it repairs the hydrogen bond and broken keratin protein of the tresses.

www.dlf 5 .in

47

auto mania

MODELLED TO PERFECTION

Marked by a refined exterior and outstanding driving dynamics, the all new BMW X3 has upped the luxury and style quotient considerably

BY PALLAVI SINGH

T

he third generation of luxury auto maker BMW’s X3 series continues its trailblazing success in the premium midsize sports activity vehicle segment with the launch of the all-new BMW X3 that combines outstanding driving dynamics with versatile usability. A statement of unlimited opportunities and an expression of sheer presence and freedom, the BMW

48

high 5

X3 impresses with its athletic appearance at first sight even as it fascinates with an exciting driving experience. Vikram Pawah, President, BMW Group India, said, “BMW X3 established the premium mid-size sports activity vehicle segment in India and became a trailblazer with its modern character. The all-new BMW X3 is set to write the next chapter in its success story with an even more striking, dynamic

design language, powerful yet efficient drive systems and luxurious equipment.

Practical both on and off road, the allnew BMW X3 is fully equipped for the most diverse driving demands, combining everything you need for wherever your day takes you.”

The new car boasts of robust proportions, refined exterior design,

The new luxury car’s game changing technologies such as the BMW display key allow drivers to keep in contact with their car round the clock A relaxed and harmonious lounge atmosphere is created, thanks to optimised cabin noise insulation, adjustable rear seat backrest, rear window sunblind and enlarged panoramic roof. Ambient lighting with six dimmable light designs creates an atmosphere for every mood.

A welcome light carpet, which is projected from the side sill, welcomes passengers in style. Rear-view camera with park assist helps in parking or maneuvering into parallel or lateral space. The smartphone holder integrated into the centre console allows inductive, wireless charging for mobile phones and the BMW display key. and is impressively spacious. The BMW X3 is available in expedition scheme and also in a new luxury line design scheme. The luxury line encourages us to travel in style with elegant contours and luxurious features. Available in two diesel variants, the newest model boasts of metallic paintworks in mineral white, sophisto grey, black sapphire and phytonic blue.

The new avatar has been reinterpreted with a striking design language, featuring a compelling front with a boldly enhanced distinctive double kidney grille. Fully Adaptive LED headlights and LED fog lamps featuring the new hexagonal design ensure a prominent stance on any road.

The interior impresses with dynamic driver-orientation and luxurious comfort.

The new X3 features cutting-edge safety technologies. It provides optimal support in any situation with six airbags, attentiveness assistance, dynamic stability control including cornering brake control, electric parking brake with auto hold, side-impact protection, electronic vehicle immobiliser and crash sensor, ISOFIX child seat mounting and integrated emergency spare wheel under the load floor.

www.dlf 5 .in

49

destination

Niagara falls, Canada

52

high 5

A VACATION TO

REMEMBER

DLF5 resident Shantanu Chatterjee shares picturesque details of his trip to Canada, a land abundantly blessed with stunning natural vistas and man-made marvels

C

anada has been in the news a lot, lately. Mainly because a certain Mr. Trump has made destination USA difficult for Indians while the Canadian PM Justin Trudeau has kept his doors open.

But jobs, student visa and immigration aside, does Canada offer enough to be described as a tourist attraction? I spent 10-odd days travelling parts of eastern Canada and can definitely say, it is a superb vacation country too.

The idea of exploring Canada, especially Toronto, is not the first thing that comes to the mind of many Indians as back home it is better known as mini Punjab, Can-India etc. But when an opportunity to travel came about I was not the one to miss. Indeed, the country is a multi-

cultural hotspot. Aided by some of the best summer sunshine ever and pleasant days, Canada really gave us a great time to remember.

TORONTO Toronto is the largest, most populated and the most economically vibrant city of Canada. The airport and the surrounding areas of Mississauga and Brampton are home to many Indians and we had the most fun meeting old friends here. This modern suburb has many restaurants, big retail stores and hangout places; the best of which, according to us, was the Celebration Square. After a lavishly laid out buffet dinner at a highly recommended Indian restaurant called Tandoori Flame, we landed up at Celebration Square to find a Latino

www.dlf 5 .in

53

destination

Thousand Island

Toronto Harbourfront

rock band enthralling the crowd. The background to the Square boasts of some impressive high-rise condominiums with grand shopping malls, a fountain ring, an art gallery and a library.

of Toronto has plenty to offer with the aquarium, the stadium, Chinatown and the University, all close by. We opted for The Distillery district over St. Lawrence market as our dinner destination.

The old Toronto is a mix of giant office buildings, tall apartments and some fantastic heritage structures. The most splendid area remains the Harbour front, for a delightful stroll along Lake Ontario with the famed CN Tower and high-rises on one side and the waterfront with parks, boats and ferries on the other. This part

This trip was also our first experiment with Airbnb. We stayed with a lovely elderly lady at her 100-year-old house in a beautiful neighbourhood in East York.

Upper Quebec

54

high 5

THOUSAND ISLANDS The first place on our to-do list from Toronto was this widely popular vacation destination which consists of numerous small, privately-owned islands with their impressive getaway mansions. After starting early in the day from Toronto, we landed in the morning for a ferry cruise. The Boldt Castle set on an island, for which you need a separate ferry, can be a wonderful picnic spot. A thoroughly enjoyable cruise can well culminate into some wine and dine at the restaurants overlooking the islands or one can just sit and laze on the benches hugging the shoreline and gaze at numerous boats of all sizes; yachts, motor boats or ferries.

Montreal seemed to be much smaller than Toronto. Named after Mount Royal, the city has many historic buildings, which now jostle for space with more modern ones MONTREAL The drive from Toronto to MontrĂŠal is splendid with beautiful countryside view along the highway. The sparsely populated countryside here seems unending with roads branching off to smaller towns. They lead you through abundant forest areas, rivers, lakes and massive farmlands.

MontrĂŠal seemed to be much smaller than Toronto in size. Named after Mount Royal and initially set up by French settlers, the city again has many historic buildings, which now jostle for space with more modern ones. However, the

central square of Old Montréal with the imposing gothic cathedral of Notre Dame Basilica is a wonderful place to explore along with its surrounding area. Here, the Botanical Garden was the showstopper for us. One has to be there to truly experience it. The acres of themed gardens and greenhouses create one magical experience. Also, do not miss the Bio Dome and the highest inclined Tower Observatory of the country, from the 1976 winter Olympic Games.

and narrow cobblestoned streets. This is mostly a French-speaking region and our travel was limited to the very European settings of Old Quebec, which is further divided into lower and upper divisions.

One can reach the two levels through an easy 10-minute climb or a funicular.

The setting of the city is breathtakingly beautiful from the sidewalk of upper Quebec which gives sweeping panoramic views of the St. Lawrence river on one side and La Citadelle on the other.

QUEBEC

Since the area is not very spread out, it is fun to walk down the winding streets, lined by shops selling artifacts, memorabilia and restaurants. Though highly touristy,

An approximately two-hour drive from Montréal brings you to Quebec, the historic fortified city with stone buildings

you never feel like you are fighting for space and it is a wonderful experience to just grab a corner in one of the many restaurants lining the streets and dig into some fine cuisine. We had some lovely seafood lasagna and the warm sun called for some nice light beer at a restaurant called La Pizz Saint-Pierre.

OTTAWA Ottawa is approximately a two-hour drive from Montréal and close to the U.S. border. With a little more than half a day to cover the city, we had to get our priorities right. Set beside the vast Ottawa River is Parliament Hill, an imposing gothic structure consisting of a beautiful carved central tower similar to the Big Ben. Ottawa is also home to a couple of museums, notably the Museum of War and the Museum of History, the latter to my mind, is the more impressive one with its collection of gigantic totem poles covering three floors.

Architecturally impressive from the inside, the outside of the museum is equally grand with sweeping views of the Ottawa river lined with numerous sailboats. It seemed to be such a relaxed city with some great neighbourhoods set amidst picturesque scenic beauty.

NIAGARA Ottawa Parliament House Quebec

How can a trip to Toronto not include a visit to the Niagara? Many tour operators offer popular day trips, but we decided on an overnight stay here. People generally embark on visiting Niagara right after reaching but we chose to drop our bags at the hotel before taking a short walk through the very touristy streets to reach the waterfalls. While you are here, do not forget to experience the Hornblower cruise to the falls.

Canada, for us, has been an unforgettable experience. Mesmerising scenic beauty, perfect synchronisation between urban and nature and unbound entertainment – the country is a traveller's haven.

www.dlf 5 .in

55

the road less travelled

56

high 5

CALL OF THE SAHYADRIS Amidst picturesque settings and verdant surroundings, the Western Ghats in Maharashtra prove to be an ideal hotspot for winsome experiences that are sure to quench your appetite for travel experiences and leave you asking for more

BY SUDESHNA ROY

Andharban

www.dlf 5 .in

57

the road less travelled

F

ondly known as the mecca of trekkers, Maharashtra makes for a delightful experience.

Laced with abundant nature, lush greenery, adventure and stunning scenic beauty, the Western Ghats of India are beguiling. With their picturesque lakes, verdant valleys, wishgranting temples and terraced hills, the State has something for every age and mood. If trekking is what inspires you the most and makes you feel alive amidst nature, it would be worth your while to trek to two of the lesser known destinations – Andharban and Matheran. These largely unexplored valleys are now drawing trekkers from across cities who are wandering off the beaten path to be close to nature.

Andharban For all of us that are in love with seamless stretches of rolling greens, undulating streams and misty mountains, there is the incredible natural beauty of Andharban. Serenaded by the stunning Sahyadri range and picture-perfect landscape, Andharban always makes for a beautiful feast for the eyes. Quite true to its name, this quaint place remains dark most of the year, owing to the long, voluminous trees and foggy weather. Even if you love adventure and consider yourself quite courageous to take on any challenge, try not to explore this place after dark. One wrong turn and you would lose track of the path you need to trek and may have to end up walking endlessly. This forest trail

A group of trekking enthusiasts on the picturesque Sahyadri range at Matheran

The toy train amidst the verdant hills at Matheran

Dense green cover, scenic beauty and delightful weather of Matheran allures nature enthusiasts across the globe 58

high 5

Courtesy of Google Images overlooks the scenic landscape of Plus Valley, Ghangad, Tailbaila, Sarasgad, mountain ranges of Tamhini Ghat and the divinely alluring Devkund Waterfall plunging into a beautiful serenity-pool.

Travellers on a trek at the beauteous Andharban

Experiences: Exploring Andharban requires you to trek through the forest.

Start your trek at Pimpri Dam, quite close to Pimpri village. Since the whole trek is a descent, hiring a local guide who knows the terrain better, would be a wise decision. It is a 5-hour long trek where you will be traversing 13km, so keep water and chocolates with you.

The weather is unpredictable, and the chances of a heavy shower is always present. Being a jungle trek, Andharban offers spectacular views of flora and fauna, as also several species of birds such as the Chaatak, the Malabar Whistling Thrush, Dwarf Kingfishers, and Minivets among several others.

The Indian Giant Squirrel can be occasionally spotted in and around the area. The sights of the picturesque Kundalika Valley and Kundalika river,

A trek to Matheran, via the Garbett Plateau, in Maharashtra’s celebrated Sahyadri mountain range

Bhira Dam and Plus Valley will make all your toil on this trail, worthwhile.

Matheran Located approximately 110 km from Mumbai, Matheran is the smallest hill station of India, located in the Raigadh district of Maharashtra. The uncharted trails of Matheran, nestled amidst the Sahyadri range, are something that will keep every nature-lover hooked. Jungle hiking as well as nighttime trekking are the two available options through which one can explore this picture-perfect hill station. Dense green cover, scenic surroundings and delightful weather of this place allures nature enthusiasts across the globe. If you consider yourself an adventure junkie, Matheran can be an empyrean experience for you. Charlotte Lake, King George Point, Shivaji’s Ladder are some of the places that are of interest at Matheran. Panorama Point is a personal favourite as it provides a sweeping view of the entire Sahyadri range, which is mesmerising, to say the least. Moreover, it is tranquil and peaceful, which further adds to the beauty of the place. If one may say so, it is just the perfect place to rekindle romance, or enjoy some family time amidst the bewitching beauty of nature.

Experiences: Being an eco-sensitive system, vehicles are not allowed in Matheran. The place is all about views and affords close to three dozen lookouts over the Western Ghats and the region's village-dotted plains. Those undertaking a jungle trek start from Neral village, which is located about 3km away from Matheran. Walking all the way till One Tree Point can be the most rewarding experience of your trip. Also, exploring the beauty of the Sahyadri range by a toy train is sure to make for a thrilling experience. Horse riding is another exciting activity you can undertake while you are here. It is a place where getting lost is a delightful proposition.

Metaphorically, of course.

www.dlf 5 .in

59

cinemascope

LIGHTS, CAMERA, FASHION!

The cinematic universe has always been a medium capable of wielding tremendous cultural influence, and it shows in the way popular movies have restructured our wardrobe

BY SUDEHSNA ROY

Ocean's Twelve

60

high 5

The Sixth Sense

F

ashion has always had an intrinsic connection with the world of motion pictures. Over the years, movies have brought about significant changes in the ways we dress – sometimes by introducing something completely anew, or by making us revisit the charm of old-world fashion statements. Most of us enjoy visual stimulation whenever watching a film – not only do the development of plots and characters attract us, we often get enchanted by the elaborate and dramatic costumes that come in interesting shapes and silhouettes. On the other hand, there are instances where existing fashion trends have been validated by the celluloid world and an outfit which could have gone into obscurity in a decade or two, has suddenly sprung up the fashion ladder and emerged as trending. Here we round up some Hollywood classics which have either reinvented or reinforced the way we look at our clothes.

Razor Sharp Suits Menswear has been synonymous with movies since the dawn of cinema.

Despite that, even to this day, a sharply-

tailored suit on big screen can cause a seismic shift in men’s fashion. Take the example of American Gigolo (1980) where Giorgio Armani deconstructed the male suit and successfully reconstructed the male ego, with Richard Gere carrying the slightly oversized suit with utmost perfection. Tailored suits with suave, impeccable styling and snazzy leather shoes with some accessories will always be synonymous with all Bond heroes – be it Sean Connery in Dr. No (1962) to modernday Daniel Craig in Skyfall (2012). Not mentioning Ryan Gosling transforming Steve Carell in Crazy, Stupid, Love (2011) and George Clooney’s classic suit in Ocean’s Twelve (2004) would be a grave error in this respect.

Trench Coats

Pretty Woman

Hollywood loves its trench coats. A stark opposite to a statement piece, the trench melds itself to the wearer, becoming whatever it needs to be at that moment.

With its clean lines, subtle tailoring and goes-with-everything greyish-brown shades, the trench coat has retained its popularity till date. Remember detective

www.dlf 5 .in

61

cinemascope

Harry Potter Mr. & Mrs. Smith Lans Handa aka the Jews hunter of Inglourious Basterds? Would the iconic Strudel scene where the detective grills Shoshanna come out more horrifying without the antagonist wearing a classic trench coat? Starting from Humphrey Bogart’s iconic dialogue, “Here’s lookin’ at you, kid” in Casablanca (1942), Paul Newman in Paris Blues (1961), Alain Delon in Le Somourai (1967), Meryl Streep in Kramer vs. Kramer (1979), to Brad Pitt in Ocean’s Twelve (2004) – the versatility and appeal of this garment will continue to inspire our clothing collection, we are sure.

Accessorised Details Be it cool shades, expensive watches or luxury shoes – accessories that show up in films can reach an iconic status en masse in a very quick span of time.

Take the case of the boy wizard, Harry Potter – since the appearance of the first movie in the Harry Potter series

62

high 5

Kill Bill on the silver screen, the famous roundshaped spectacles of Harry became a trademark success, amidst muggles.

Similarly, a pair of rimless, black-lens frames with all-black garb went trending with the Keanu Reeves-starrer The Matrix (1999) and became a recurrent accessory in subsequent movies including Leon: The Professional (1994), Cruel Intentions (1999), Wild Wild West (1999) and many more.

Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie donning spectacular acid-yellow lenses in Mr. & Mrs. Smith (2005) also witnessed the mercury rising for quirky sunglasses in the succeeding years. Uma Thurman’s iconic yellow sneakers in Kill Bill (2003), Julia Robert’s thigh-high patent leather boots in Pretty Woman (1990) – all these accessories have stood the test of time and gained popularity in fandom.

Little Black Dress The enigmatic Little Black Dress has won us over time and again with its unmatched

The world of celluloid has always inspired, transformed and directed the change in the way we dress. These delightful contributions will always keep our lives a little more interesting charm and the sheer aura of aristocracy it carries with itself. This sartorial brilliance has been around since Coco Chanel first designed it in the 20s and Marylin Monroe and Sophia Loren have carried it in Some Like it Hot and That Kind of Woman. The knockout success of the dress came with Audrey Hepburn wearing it in Breakfast at Tiffany’s, designed by Hubert de Givenchy. The black sheath dress – voted the best dress ever by woman in a movie, has been a recurring style statement with several iconic movies since then and has gradually become a staple in any modern woman’s wardrobe.

Be it Barbara Streisand in The Mirror Has Two Faces (1996), Whitney Houston in The Bodyguard (1992), Angelina Jolie in Mr. & Mrs. Smith (2005) or Natalie Portman in Black Swan (2010), the Little Black Dress has grown synonymous with elegance and sophistication.

The world of celluloid has always inspired, transformed and directed the change in the way we dress. No matter what, these quirky and delightful contributions by motion pictures will always keep our lives a little more interesting as well as colourful.

www.dlf 5 .in

63

expert's take

SAFEGUARDING THE LEGACY Every family creates assets and it is important to ensure they pass on to successive generations as smoothly as possible without any technical or legal roadblocks

BY SUNIL JAIN

W

hen Somesh Bhaskar, 49, succumbed to a completely unexpected heart attack, his wife Mrinalini discovered that Somesh had not updated his will since the dissolution of his earlier marriage. Since the original will had left everything to Somesh’s ex-spouse, the court decided his assets

64

high 5

would instead go to her brother, Aditya.

Mrinalini was horrified by the court's decision. She was however, greatly relieved when Aditya voluntarily signed everything over to Mrinalini and her kids.

Rajni, now 60, could not access her parents’ bank locker after they passed away. Lack of knowledge and timely

execution of necessary papers by the bank vide RBI guidelines proved to be the main culprits in this case.

These two incidents prove beyond any doubt that a will is a very important document. It is a summation of all the assets – be it house property, cash, lockers, jewellery, vehicles, insurance

policies, credit cards, mutual funds, loan and liabilities along with the nature of disposal and distribution after the death of the person who owe them. Unfortunately, very few people understand the importance of updating the will at a regular interval.

In the absence of a will, the assets are distributed as per law and the court appoints someone to manage the process. This may result in disputes within the family. It also leads to a tedious, long-winded process of passing the assets to the loved ones. A will is needed even if they have appointed nominees because a nominee is not a legal heir, but someone who takes care of the assets till these are transferred to the legal heir. In the absence of a will, the heirs are decided in accordance with the law and could result in disputes if the nominee is not the heir.

Making a will is not a very complex act.

It can be written on a plain or stamped sheet of paper and can be hand-written or printed. The testator (maker of the will) should not use different inks and should sign just below the last sentence because anything written below the

signature is not considered a part of the will. It should be signed by two witnesses.

It should carry the name, age, address of the testator and beneficiaries. The details of each asset need to be clearly mentioned. A will can be changed as many times as the testator wants to modify it. But the changes must be made on another paper (called codicil), with the date clearly mentioned. Again, one must sign just below the last line without leaving any space and have it attested by two witnesses. A will does not necessarily have to be registered but should be – to avoid any unwarranted dispute over its legality and authenticity.

Do you know where all the financial documents are?

Is your mother a nominee in the bank account? What documents are needed to close or transfer an investment?

Another crucial process following the death of a person is taking stock of the finances and it is easy to be stumped by the confusion of formalities. Do you know where all the financial documents are? What if your father has not left a will?

Is your mother a nominee in the bank account? What documents are needed to close or transfer an investment? Should you continue to file tax returns on behalf of your father? These and many other queries are faced by countless people, who go through painstaking processes to get their parents’ financial affairs in order after one of them passes away. Inability to locate documents or passwords, ignorance about procedures and legalities, the absence of a will or lack of pre-emptive steps like appointing nominees are among the various reasons that people face problems.

A good solution, however, is to be in touch with a lawyer/adviser, who will ensure that you get out of procedural oversights or errors and will guide you through the entire process with minimal pain

www.dlf 5 .in

65

sacred space

THE INNER AWAKENING Our heritage contains within itself a profundity of ideological beliefs capable of guiding us towards happiness even in these modern times

BY T.K. MUKHERJEE

W

e have opened the pages of the Bhagavad Gita, but have we opened the ‘eyes’ of our mind, and the ‘feelings’ of our heart to it? The answer is an emphatic, ‘No’. We have memorised most of the important verses of the Gita, but never actualised the teachings of those verses in our lives to become good and responsible citizens. The tragedy of our lives, and indeed of modern times, is that inspite of so much education and amenities to improve the quality of living, our lives have not changed. Our commitment to raise the quality of life of those around us remains at the lowest level.

66

high 5

Yoga karmasu kausalam is a special declaration. A unique type of definition of man’s spiritual life, not opposed to man’s worldly life, but comprehending both of them.

What it underlines is that we are living, we are earning our livelihood, doing our work diligently; and in the midst of all this responsibility, we are trying to develop our innerenergy to touch the heart of others for their welfare. It is a comprehensive philosophy and the spirituality of life.

So, externally, there is social welfare and development, inwardly, spiritual growth and fulfilment.

Achievement, usefulness and so forth are the ideals which appear to guide us out of the confusion of

countless problems. The inner aspect of education is mind-energy management, which cannot be acquired merely by reading books or hearing the interpretation of what the book says by the world’s most learned persons; but by developing the innerpart of the mind which culminates in developing integrated psychic energy within. The whole subject of the Gita is to train the human mind using one’s senses, intellect, body and energy.

We enter this life by the gateway of birth and we leave by the gateway of death. This procession of living beings has been going on for thousands of years and yet it does not occur to many of us to ask the very pertinent questions - Where have we come from? Where shall we go? Why are we here? Our zest for life, whether it is pleasant or unpleasant, our absorption in the interests we have developed is so complete that we are not even aware that the great problem of life faces us all the time, that an overwhelming mystery surrounds us.

Many of us, especially in India, who are pursuing these temporary aims wholeheartedly in search of happiness, know that this search is futile and real happiness can be found only within oneself by raising the consciousness to highest levels and gradually transcending the illusions and limitations of the life of body, mind and intellect.

But still we do nothing to bring about the necessary changes in our life. Why? The reason for this anomalous behaviour, according to our Rishis, lies in the fact that the perception of the deeper truths of life and the inner significance, even of the ordinary facts with which we come in contact every day, depends upon the higher spiritual faculty which is called buddhi. Our knowledge is on the plane of intellect only. The faculty of buddhi has not yet been developed or allowed to function to an adequate degree. Our knowledge has not yet been converted into realisation by the illumination of buddhi.

Buddhic illumination is needed not only in guarding us from going astray in life or falling into evil ways but also in the field of Sadhana or spiritual practice when we embark in right earnest upon the divine adventure of emancipation.

Many people in India honestly believe that all they have got to do in order to ensure their spiritual progress is to find a suitable spiritual teacher or guru.

The real fact, however, is that no real treading of the spiritual path is possible until an aspirant has unfolded

The whole subject of the Gita is to train the human mind using one’s senses, intellect, body and energy his buddhi sufficiently to find within himself all the guidance he needs for his spiritual advancement.

The light on the path must come from within. Such a light, which is the result of a healthy functioning of the buddhi faculty, can come from within only when the mind is sufficiently purified by righteous living and yogic self-discipline as pointed out in the YogaSutras (ii.28).

www.dlf 5 .in

67

sacred space

Vedanta, a product of our soil, urges every human being to become a contributor and not merely a survivor Let me recapitulate a poem of a great Saint-poet of Bengal: “O mind, you do not know how to farm!/ Fallow lies the field of your life./ If you had only worked it well, how rich a harvest you might reap!” This throws the brunt of every striving on our own shoulders and curbs the escapist overtures of our intellect and ego.

We need to earn grace of the mind by self-effort and sincerity in order to proceed steadily. An interesting aspect of India’s spiritual heritage is the matter-offact, down-to-earth approach to human problems.

Yoga psychology rationally surveys the problem, boils it down to its essentials, carefully separates the selfcreated part from the factual issue, and addresses the problem psychologically and existentially.

We need to know here, what does grace of mind actually mean? The ability of the mind to remain focussed on our goals and to bring to us what we want. The ordinary state of our mind consists of a smattering of several collected thoughts, with a will coursing through a priority jacket, which makes certain thoughts gain precedence over the rest. But the over-cluttered mental field, the constant deflection of attention, an erected priority-jacket, and the consequent

68

high 5

turmoil of choice is over-burdening. So we suffer stress and distraction, angst and blood pressure. When we get the grace of mind, we are suddenly inspired by a shining purpose. The muddy cover will now clear up and gain sharp focus and our aims and intents start dominating.

Vedanta, a product of our soil, urges every human being to become a contributor and not merely a survivor. Seva or attitude of serving becomes natural to a society which is not chronically impoverished but well-nourished and economically stable. India, till the 16th century, was known as the Golden Bird because it occupied a position of dominance in world economy. For a prosperous society whose world view was rooted in the ideals of Dharma, Karma and Daana became an integral part of the everyday cultural life of the Indian people. The householder or Grihastha was the economic pillar of Indian society who supported people in all other phases of life—Brahmacharya, Vanaprastha and Sannyasa.

This yoga of the Gita can be practised in offices, homes, farms, and factories, in the bench, the bar, and the pulpit. Banish the idea of yoga as something professional. In this philosophy, there is the confluence of two energy stream, namely, the energy of meditation and the energy of practical implementation or action.

It signifies the confluence of the energy of Krishna, the unarmed charioteer as well as the master of yoga, and the energy of Arjuna, fully armed for heroic action under the guidance of Lord Krishna.

accolades

A JEWEL IN THE CROWN It is a moment of glory for DLF what with the real estate giant winning the coveted Sword of Honour from the British Safety Council

D

LF, India’s leading real estate developer has been conferred the prestigious Sword of Honour for eight properties across Delhi-NCR by the British Safety Council, for demonstrating excellence in the management of health and safety risks. The British Safety Council’s Sword Of Honour is widely recognised as the pinnacle of achievement in health and safety management across the world and is instituted to reward companies that have demonstrated excellence in health and safety management.

On receiving multiple Sword of Honour recognitions, Gautam Dey, Director, DLF Power & Services Limited said, “Safety is paramount to us and it is a matter of pride that DLF has become

the only organisation in the world to receive 11 Sword of Honour Awards from the British Safety Council in a single year. Our employees and partners have worked very hard to achieve this recognition from the world’s best safety auditors. The best part about such an exercise is that all the teams, right from those at the senior level to those working on the ground, are pursuing a common goal of ensuring highest health and safety standards. Its a testament to our passion and commitment to health and safety management, that we have been able to achieve such an accolade.”

To compete for the Sword of Honour, an organisation has to first achieve the highest rating of ‘Five stars’ implying a 92 percent score or above, in the British

Safety Council’s health audit scheme. The organisation must then demonstrate to an independent panel of experts that they excel in health and safety management across their businesses.

Lauding DLF for its achievement, Lawrence Waterman, Chairman of the British Safety Council, said: “On behalf of the board of trustees and staff of the British Safety Council I would like to congratulate DLF on achieving the very highest standards of health, safety and environmental management.”

DLF is clearly, setting very high standards by becoming the world’s first real estate developer to receive the coveted award and the only organisation globally to get 11 Swords of Honour in a single year.

www.dlf 5 .in

69

gastronomy

SEASON OF FLAVOURS

Barbequed items, grilled meat and traditional dishes form an integral part of festive feasting all across the world and for good reason too

BY SUDESHNA ROY

70

high 5

T

hink Christmas and one immediately conjures up visions of feasting on plum cake or puddings. While the festive spread is bound to include a Christmas cake and wines, traditional Indian food forms the staple of an Indian Christmas meal. These days, along with the traditional dishes, fusion food is also gaining steady popularity amidst the new-age millennials who love to experiment with varied options and prefer a diversified menu that comes with a perfect combination of Indian, continental and mixed preparations.

The Christmas menu has evolved over a period of time and tracing the evolution reveals how much our food habits have changed – food customs are organic as the parameters differ continuously with respect to topography, culture and religion, across the globe. While roasted geese and red cabbages are the kings of the Christmas tables in Germany, Feast of the Seven Fishes is the main item during

celebrations in Italy. Christmas dinner in Britain always includes turkey with all the trimmings, followed by a mountain of delectable puddings, whereas, in America, it is roast all the way, as Thanksgiving Day is close to Christmas.

However, India being a cultural hotspot, traditional dishes form a quintessential part of the festivities here with items that strike a perfect balance between Indian and Western.

Nowadays, owing to the rise of various lifestyle diseases, healthy eating has become a general norm. Low sugar, less oil, minimum spices along with lots of vegetables and nutritional supplements like quinoa, chia, flax seeds and green salads form the dietary staple for many.

Nevertheless, indulging in classic barbeque delights along with a good old glass of champagne never loses its charm, especially during Christmas. All it takes is peaceful ambience, a hearty company and a bowl full of toothsome dishes and you are festival-sorted.

BBQ BACON ONION MEATBALL BOMB

Barbeque Bacon Onion Meatball Bomb is one of the traditional Christmas dishes that bring in a burst of flavours. Check out the recipe of this heavenly dish, as shared by Chef Abhijit Dey, the head chef at the Pavilion, DLF Golf and Country Club.

Ingredients • 1 pound ground beef • 1 teaspoon garlic powder • 1 teaspoon onion powder • 1 teaspoon pepper • 2 teaspoons salt • ¼ cup bread crumbs • 3 cloves garlic, minced • ½ onion, diced • ⅓ loosely packed cup parsley • 1 egg

• 1 tablespoon ketchup • 1 tablespoon mustard • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce • 1 tablespoon honey • 4-6 medium-sized onions • 8 ounces cheddar cheese, cubed • 16-24 pieces of bacon • 1 bottle BBQ sauce

Method

These days, along with the traditional dishes, fusion food is also gaining steady popularity amidst new-age millennials who love to experiment

• Preheat oven to 425˚F/220˚F. • In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef with garlic powder, onion powder, pepper, salt, bread crumbs, garlic, onion, parsley, egg, ketchup, mustard, Worcestershire sauce, and honey until evenly combined.

• Cut onions vertically on cutting board.

Remove the stem and root from each piece.

• Save onion shells suitable to wrap meatballs.

• Remove meatball mixture from refrigerator and form into golf ball-sized meatballs. Stuff meatballs with cube of cheddar cheese.

• Wrap onion halves around the meatballs, then wrap bacon around each onion ball.

• Brush each meatball with BBQ sauce covering completely.

• Bake for 45 minutes, brushing again with BBQ sauce halfway through.

www.dlf 5 .in

71

fitness central

72

high 5

IN FINE FETTLE Fitness is no more a fad but a way of life. Adopting a high impact exercise programme can go a long way in helping you live a healthy and rejuvenated life

BY PALLAVI SINGH

D

uring the second and early third centuries CE, China harboured a medical pioneer arguably at par with Hippocrates. Hua Tuo always preached the gospel of regular exercise; as he puts it, “The human body requires exertion.” Tuo also knew that proper breathing played a vital role in personal well-being—so he designed a special stretch known as “Tiger Pawing” to help expand the lungs and improve respiration. He focused on breath control to stay fit. At some point Austrian British philosopher, Ludwig Wittgenstein, stated, "The human body is the best

picture of the human soul". Having heard the great minds, it is worthwhile to infer that to enjoy the benefits of good health it is important to exercise. A person who is fit is capable of living life to the fullest. Remember, what reading does to the mind, exercise does to the body. Health conscious people have been going for walks, doing the age-old yoga, or hitting the gymnasium, which has assumed ginormous proportions with the passage of time. The purpose of training is to tighten up the slack, toughen the body and polish the mind.

Here are some fitness programmes that can help achieve a savvier you.

www.dlf 5 .in

73

fitness central

Zumba When you feel like having a dance party instead of a workout, you turn to Zumba. Created by Colombian dancer and choreographer Alberto "Beto" Perez during the 1990s, Zumba is a fitness programme that combines Latin and international music with dance moves. Zumba routines incorporate interval training—alternating fast and slow rhythms—and resistance training.

The choreography incorporates hiphop, soca, samba, salsa, merengue and mambo. Squats and lunges are also included. An aerobic activity, Zumba can count toward the 150 minutes a week of moderate aerobic activity or 75 minutes a week of vigorous aerobic activity recommended for most healthy adults. Aerobic exercise reduces health risks, keeps excess pounds at bay, strengthens the heart and boosts your mood. If you enjoy Zumba, you're also more likely to do it regularly— and experience its benefits as an aerobic exercise.

Pilates A physical fitness regime developed in the early 20th century by Joseph Pilates, who called his method ‘Contrology’.

Strengthening your core is one of the best things you can do for your overall fitness.

A strong core—which includes your abs, obliques, and lower back muscles—helps keep your body balanced and stable, lets you maintain proper posture and exercise form, keeps your spine stable and safe, and ultimately, helps you move in a more controlled and efficient way.

The exercises are usually done in a specific order, one right after another.

The movements have names, like "The 100," Criss-Cross," the "Elephant," and the "Swan." Whether you're doing a core-focused move or something that targets other muscle groups, your core is always engaged during a Pilates session.

Pilates classes typically take 45 minutes to an hour, but you can do fewer moves in less time.

74

high 5

Whether you're doing a core-focused move or something that targets other muscle groups, your core is always engaged during a Pilates session

Masala Bhangra Created by fitness instructor Sarina Jain, Masala Bhangra is a hybrid of Bhangra and Bollywood Dance with high-energy aerobics. This workout is based on traditional Punjabi Bhangra, which is a popular dance form in India and abroad. The modern twist to this traditional form comes with that dash of Bollywood moves added to it in a 45 minute to one-hour fitness routine. This unique dance mixes cardiovascular activity with fun and can be modified to the comfort level of the participant, making it accessible for participants of all ages and fitness levels. It provides overall toning, especially in the shoulders, abs and legs and can burn as much as 500 calories per class. The session begins with a warm up, followed by cardio and finally the cool down.

The result is an exhilarating, effective and fun dance fitness workout. In a way, while building endurance and stamina, you are also learning about a new culture.

Step Aerobics Introduced in the 1980s as part of the aerobics craze, Step Aerobics is a choreographed routine of stepping up and down on a rectangular, square, or circular platform (or, in the case of BOSU, a domed, flexible apparatus).

Many classes combine step aerobics with body sculpting, jumping rope, sliding, or funk aerobics. A classic cardio workout, Step Aerobics gets your heart and lungs in shape and tones your tush. Step aerobics is a terrific crosstraining activity for runners, cyclists, and walkers. BOSU is also exceptional at developing balance and flexibility.

The "step" is a 4-inch to 12-inch raised platform. You step up, around, and down from the platform in different patterns to boost your heart rate and breathing, apart from strengthening your muscles. Step aerobics moves range from simple to advanced.

www.dlf 5 .in

75

events

WINNING STROKES

DLF5 hosted a brand new edition of its annual, inter-condominium Golf Championship that brought together the best sporting talent from The Aralias, The Magnolias and The Camellias. A keenly contested tournament which went right down to the wire, it was The Camellias that emerged the winners.

We bring you the highpoints.

76

high 5

www.dlf 5 .in

77

events

CELEBRATION OF THE DIVINE The festive ambience and spontaneous participation of DLF5 residents during the Durga Puja festival was an occasion to remember

T

he final day of the victory of good over evil, Bijaya Dashami or Dussehra was celebrated with utmost joy and fervour at the premises of Club5 by the residents of DLF5 with the five-day long festivity coming to a delightful end. The ever-growing and vibrant community of DLF5 witnessed an energetic day amidst drum beats, colours, hymns, traditions and delicacies. Around four thousand residents joined their hands to lift and bid farewell to the grand idol of Maa Durga as the goddess left for her abode in Kailash at the end of her annual sojourn on earth.

The day of Bijaya Dashami holds immense significance for married women, who celebrate the occasion with the ritual

78

high 5

of sindoorkhela. The atmosphere at Club5 was further beautified with colours as the women participated in sindoorkhela where they put vermillion on Maa Durga’s forehead and feet and thereafter, applied it on other married women present around them.

To relive the legends of the great epic Ramayana, the artists of Charkula Arts Academy presented Ramlila which recounted the story of Lord Rama since his birth till his reunion with his wife Sita after his victory over Ravana.

The academy was established in 1982 to promote dance, music and culture of Uttar Pradesh in India.

Blending modernity with tradition and adhering to its environment-friendly

ethics, the smart community of DLF5 celebrated Ravana Dahan in the most gracious manner sans firecrackers or any kind of noise pollution. The Ravana Vadh in the Ramlila was the climax of the performance, which was applauded and celebrated as the legendary victory of good over evil.

opportunity to get united in the thread of love and harmony. It is heartening to see the entire community coming together to celebrate all festivals with such warmth.

On behalf of DLF5, I extend my heartiest wishes to all.�

Aakash Ohri, Senior Executive Director, DLF5, said, “Festivities bring to us the

www.dlf 5 .in

79

events

FOR THE LOVE OF PHOTOGRAPHY The Quorum, in partnership with Liberatum, hosted a gala show to celebrate the legendary photographer Steve McCurry

A Vivek Narain and Sonya Jehan, Founders The Quorum

80

high 5

ll roads led to DLF5 early this month where the city’s elite gathered to celebrate the American photographer, freelancer and photojournalist, Steve McCurry. The Quorum at DLF5, in Gurugram, a members only lifestyle club, packed in a sublime evening to felicitate the legendary photographer with the Liberatum Cultural Honour Award, as part of the Cultural Honor Gala, which celebrates great minds and their contribution to world culture. McCurry’s

iconic image, the Afghan Girl, 1984 captures the piercing gaze of a refugee child with perfect poignancy and was the cover of a National Geographic issue in 1985 and again in 2013.

The event was a uniquely curated evening amidst verdant settings and hosted more than 150 reputed names from the who’s who of society such as William Dalrymple, fashion designer Tarun Tahiliani, Ambassador of Brazil to India, Tovar da Silva Nunes and wife

DJ Candice Redding with The Quorum resident DJ Navendu

Steve McCurry being awarded the Liberatum Cultural Honour

Richard Allan Director of Public Policy EMEA Facebook

Ambassador of Brazil Tovar da Silva Nunes with his Wife

(Left to Right) Tomas Auksas Creative Director of Liberatum, Sonya Jehan Founder of The Quorum, Lakshmi Menon a Super Model

Guadalupe Romero Silva together with founders of The Quorum Club - Vivek Narain and Sonya Jehan.

The ‘Chronicler of Catastrophe’, a contemporary cultural journalist and one of the most daring image makers of our time, Steve McCurry is perhaps most notable for the vivid use of colour in his reportage. Steve’s body of work spans conflicts, vanishing cultures, ancient traditions and contemporary culture alike - yet always retains the human element. McCurry has been one of the most iconic voices in contemporary photography for more than 30 years. He is a correspondent for Magnum Photos.

From the piercing gaze of Sharbat Gula, the “Afghan Girl”, or the group of women gathered together during a dust storm in the early 1980s in Jodhpur—Steve McCurry’s images have transcended reportage and found a place in a sort of shared cultural memory. And even as one might debate how framed and manipulated the perfect image should be, this American photographer’s genius is indisputable and unsurmountable.

Liberatum is a multidisciplinary collective that was founded 17 years ago by Pablo Ganguli, born in Calcutta, who started this crusade at the age of 17. Their mission is to connect minds to promote social change and inspire communities and they do this through compelling and original cultural programmes and innovative content, and fascinating creative collaborations featuring worldrenowned cultural icons.

www.dlf 5 .in

81

events

A TIME TO REJOICE

The Diwali Mela at The Belaire in DLF5 was an infectious mix of food, music, gifting options and an enthusiastic, happy vibe

R

esidents of The Belaire in DLF5 were clearly in no mood to do anything by half measures when it came to their Diwali Mela. An annual feature of this premium condominium, which houses more than 500 families, this year’s Mela was a fabulously organised event that featured a wide range of stalls along with fun and entertainment options, outstanding food and a wonderfully engaging festive vibe.

A labour of love for residents, Nini Baijal, Meenakshi Verma, Maneet Sahni, Madhulika Basak, Mala Marwah and Vikram Ahuja who volunteered several hours and worked with Pratibha Anand of India Plus events to put everything together, the show was an outstanding success on all counts.

82

high 5

The Central Lawns at The Belaire wore a festive look with colourful lights, the sound of music, courtesy Mosiki who kept everyone pepped up and dancing with their performance and great food that delighted the gourmet in every attendee. The stalls had a rich look about them with a high degree of class and finesse. Fine brands like Dyson, FoodHall, Jewellery by Sakshi Creations and Chanderi Silk by Vidushi took this opportunity to showcase their products and gifting options for the festive season.

Several residents also used this platform to showcase their ventures. There was amazing bedding and bathroom linen by WellBeing, exquisite leatherette products

by Keepsake, tableware products by Merakis, handpainted candles by Swako, to name a few. Definitely a great start to the season of celebrations.

events

BEWITCHING GREEN The Eco Club at Wellington Estate, DLF5, organised a series of events on Halloween to spread the message of a green, cracker-free Diwali

T

here were monsters, goblins and witches all around but there were two basic differences.

They all looked wonderful and while the backdrop was definitely Halloween night, the message was undoubtedly green.

The Eco Club at Wellington Estate, DLF5, had been pondering upon the most effective ways to convey the message of a green, cracker-free Diwali to a condominium with more than 500 families and came up with the idea of using Halloween as a platform to spread the message of reducing air pollution.

Consequently, children of Wellington Estate dressed up in their Halloween costumes and walked the ramp for the first ever eco-fashion show in the condominium.

The Halloween witches and monsters told the audience to celebrate a Green Diwali.

The event was remarkable in its message, conceptualisation and its painstaking attention to detail. Most of the costumes were fashioned out of recycled materials and refreshments were served in Areca nut reusable bowls.

Participants took out a candle march to spread the message of ‘Make Light, Not Noise and Pollution’ and also signed a ‘No Crackers’ pledge. The Eco Club which comprises founding members Anu PD and Neelam Ahluwaliah and a core committee of Dr. Ishwin Kaur, Aarti Sachdeva, Sindhu Prasad Kapur and Aakanksha Gambhir, were thrilled with the response to this initiative.

www.dlf 5 .in

83

events

Mrs. Kavita Singh, Chairperson of DLF Women's Indian Open Organising Committee and Mr. Pawan Munjal, CMD and CEO, Hero MotoCorp with Hero Women's Indian Open 2018 winner Becky Morgan

GLORY ON THE GREEN

Held at the Gary Player layout of the DLF Golf and Country Club in Gurugram, the 12th edition of Hero Women’s Indian Open 2018, the biggest ever, saw Wales’ Becky Morgan take home the coveted trophy

84

high 5

W

ales’ Becky Morgan secured her first professional title with a two-shot win at the 12th edition of the Hero Women's Indian Open. Morgan, 44, had shared the overnight lead with England's Ellie Givens and Nicole Broch Larsen of Denmark. She shot a three-under 69 in the final round to finish on seven under, ahead of Broch Larsen, Sweden's Caroline Hedwall, Austrian Christine Wolf and Felicity Johnson of England.

Held at the Gary Player layout of the DLF Golf and Country Club in Gurugram from October 18-21, the Hero Women’s Indian Open saw 120 players from over 27 countries vying for the coveted trophy and the highest-ever prize purse of US $500,000.

Vani Kapoor The international players included defending champion Camille Chevalier, former champion Swedish Caroline Hedwall, who also won the Lacoste Ladies Open de France this year, Beth Allen - the 2016 LET Order of Merit winner, Thailand’s Kanyalak Preedasuttjit - winner of the Thailand Ladies Open, and Celine Boutier winner of the Australian Ladies Classic.

Vani Kapoor, who finished a career-best tied-sixth in the previous edition, led the Indian challenge. The Indian contingent saw the presence of the current Hero Women’s Pro Golf Tour Order of Merit leader - Tvesa Malik, along with Amandeep Drall, and Gursimar Badwal among others.

Tvesa Malik Mr. Pawan Munjal, Chairman, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Hero MotoCorp, said, “As a long-term sponsor of golf across the world, it gives me great joy and satisfaction to see this sport take giant strides in India. The Hero Women’s Indian Open has evolved into a soughtafter event over the past decade and still continues to grow stronger with each passing year. Tournaments such as these inspire young girls to take up the sport as a career. As this tournament continues to get more prominence, so will the young Indian players.”

For the first time, the tournament was contested over 72 holes and telecast live over all four days, a significant landmark for Indian women’s golf.

www.dlf 5 .in

85

from the horizon

SENSORY EXPERIENCE

Master distiller Dr. Bill Lumsden arrived at the Horizon Plaza to introduce Taste The Difference, an immersive brand initiative by Glenmorangie

T

he fact that Horizon Plaza in DLF5 is one of Gurugram’s buzziest spots is a-given and it is a fact that keeps getting reiterated at regular intervals.

The arrival of Dr. Bill Lumsden was one such evening. Dr. Lumsden, for the record, is the Director of Whisky Creation, Distilling & Whisky Stocks in India for the Glenmorangie Company, acclaimed for its eponymous single malt, across the world.

86

high 5

Glenmorangie introduced Taste The Difference, an immersive brand experience which culminated in the launch of Glenmorangie SPIOS the ninth release in its Private Edition series. The Horizon Plaza played the perfect host as ‘Taste The Difference’ led into a state-ofthe-art presentation which represented new standards in experiencing the single malt with its master creator. Consumers were taken through a journey right from discovering the brand’s heritage to its

cask collections before Dr. Bill Lumsden’s Secret Chamber, where his pioneering innovations were unveiled.

Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Lumsden described the event as a great opportunity to interact with Indian consumers. He also expressed the hope that Indian connoisseurs, who are very passionate about their whisky, would enjoy the Private edition SPIOS, which is the first offering from the

The Glenmorangie Single Malt Scotch Whisky comes from the Glenmorangie Distillery, which was founded in Scotland in 1843 and is known for combining tradition with innovation.

Apart from its heritage, the SPIOS is also special because it is Glenmorangie’s first single malt scotch whisky to be fully matured in American ex-rye whiskey casks.

The Glenmorangie SPIOS is the ninth release in the maison’s Private Edition series. Spios is Scots-Gaelic for ‘Spice’ and is pronounced ‘spee-oss’.

Glenmorangie maison to be fully matured in American ex-rye whiskey casks.

brand to enhance its consumer engagement by setting new benchmarks in this market.

Guests at the event were welcomed

by Stephane de Meurville, Managing Director, Moet Hennessy India, who stated that India is amongst the leading markets in Asia for Glenmorangie and that Taste The Difference is an initiative that allowed the

It was, by all accounts a very successful evening where whisky connoisseurs had the opportunity of interacting with a master craftsman such as Dr. Bill Lumsden and Glenmorangie gained valuable first-hand insights into what it considers to be a very important market.

www.dlf 5 .in

87

reflections

STRANGE BREW

Tea is such an intrinsic part of our social fabric that anyone who says no to a cup opens the door to a multidimensional discussion

BY ADITI GOSWAMI

I

t seems a little strange, but had I not found myself perennially in the middle of it all the time, I never could have imagined that tea has such tremendous potential for scrutiny and comment. Yes, great conversations have been struck over tea but what about someone who is not a tea drinker? In that case, the line of conversation, almost always, goes like this:

88

high 5

Q: Why don’t you have tea?

A: I’ve never had tea.

Q: Green Tea, Lemon Tea, Cardamom Tea, Assam Tea, Darjeeling Tea, Hot Tea, Ice Tea, or any other tea available in any corner of the world I reside.

A: Nope. None. Never.

That is when it all becomes a little complicated. Most of the times, when I say no to tea, folks give me a bewildered look. But believe me (and I am being serious here) some responses want me to pour boiling tea over them. Get these: Have one cup today.

You must have the tea I make.

The first time I had to make tea, I asked the silliest question: “How many cups?” The skies fell. I learnt my lesson and I’ve never repeated that question

Where’s your cup?

You’ve finished?

Are you diabetic? Then, have a nonsugar tea, just like your uncle.

Have you tried xyz brand of tea? It’s the world’s best tea.

I come from a very small family. It was mostly my parents and I, as my brothers were out of town due to their college and then for their jobs. So, tea always meant two cups only. Done and dusted. Both my parents drank their tea with utmost delight and none of the bullet points mentioned above ever came up. Phew!!

Black tea?

Half cup?

Masala tea?

I make the world’s best tea.

Take one sip.

Have Lemon tea.

After a grand lunch at a friend’s place the consensus was “Let’s have some tea.” I was quiet. I don’t like to be singled out for my weird choices. The number of cups equalling the number of well-heeled women in the room duly arrives. . But I say no. And soon I was the only one not holding a cup. Across the room I heard almost exactly what I’ve listed above.

When I’m hosting guests, I happily make tea with great attention to detail.

Then, should I get you beer?

Hahahah I was visiting a close relative after many years and was hoping they would remember I do not have tea. This is what I hear: “Ah! You still don’t have tea. But we don’t keep coffee at home. It has cocaine (I hope they meant caffeine).

We were hoping by now you would have started drinking tea because your better half is a tea fanatic.” Strange!! Yes, I am a good wife. I make the best tea (as per my better half). But no, I don’t have tea.

• • • • •

Uncle wants no sugar in his tea.

Aunt wants no milk.

Sister-in-law wants the lightest liquor tea.

Brother-in-law a small cup.

And better half, with the biggest smile you’ve ever seen - especially when it’s tea matters - wants it in the biggest cup the neighbourhood has seen.

But I don’t have tea. I just smile. Then, these are the concerns: Why are you not having?

Then, I got married into a very large family. So, one of the first times I was asked to make tea, I asked a blasphemous question: “How many cups?” The skies fell. I learnt my lesson and I’ve never repeated that question.

The situation at work is no different. The ‘Let’s go for tea’ reasons here are: • • • • • •

I have a headache.

I don’t have a headache.

I just want to walk up to the pantry.

I had a long drive.

I am so sleepy.

I need tea to get started. (As if 201 emails in the inbox are not enough to get you started.)

Again, since the pantry on my floor mostly offers tea and no other beverage I always say no. Hence, I miss out on not just a two-minute walk but all the chit-chat that I presume occurs during the tea-break. A loss I can live with.

Folks, I don’t have tea. I may never have tea. And if we happen to meet, let us have coffee, not tea. #thisisnotwhatidplanned

www.dlf 5 .in

89

musings

THE MERRY WEDDING Krishan Kalra takes us through a ceremony where the ice was broken in such spectacular fashion that it led to high spirits and good cheer

90

high 5

I

t was an inter-caste wedding. The girl from a typical Punju (slang for Punjabi) family of Chandigarh and the boy a Maratha manush (communal residents of the Marathwada region) from Nasik. They had gone to the same college at Pune. In due course friendship blossomed into love and here they were, with both their clans in full strength, for the currently fashionable ‘destination wedding’ at a resort in the millennium city. Uncles and aunts had come from literally all parts of the country; there were many friends of the couple from college; the hotel management had spared no effort to make the guests comfortable; and yet there were undercurrents of apprehension a-la Chetan Bhagat’s best seller, ‘Two States’ Undoubtedly, the youngsters had made up their minds. They were both mature enough to take decisions about their own lives; parents of the couple – let’s call them Neha and Bharat – had also given their consent. Despite all that, the two extended families were still very formal. The ‘samdhis’ and ‘samdhans’ (fathers and mothers of the bride and groom) were yet to get to know each other. Each side was hoping for someone to ‘break the ice’.

The interesting drama that unfolded at the pre-wedding mehndisangeet was a sure recipe for the start of “and they lived happily ever after”

www.dlf 5 .in

91

musings

As it turned out, their anxieties were totally ill founded. No one had properly estimated the power of that amber liquid from Scotland and the role common friends of the bride and groom would play. It was a combination of the two, which was responsible for the interesting drama that unfolded at the pre-wedding mehndi-sangeet. It went beyond anyone’s expectations and was a fabulous recipe for the start of “and they lived happily ever after”.

Apparently, both the fathers decided to ‘taste’ every single bottle of the good stuff before it was served to the guests.

Whether it was mutual distrust or fear of the bootlegger’s tricks, they were taking no chances. A retired Brigadier and a retired Professor of Psychology started with small samples. Lovely weather, beautiful location by the pool side, manicured lawns, multihued flower beds, soft lighting, lilting music – none of them realised how long the “sampling” carried on. By the time family and friends joined the two samdhis, each of them had grabbed a mic and had

92

high 5

started regaling each other by acting out dialogues by their favourite movie stars.

Brigadier sahib from Punjab thought he was Dev Anand re-incarnate and the good Professor from Nasik excelled at imitating that great thespian Raj Kumar.

Things escalated quickly from that point on as both the fathers decided to amuse the audience by getting into the skin of their respective characters. While the Professor took pride in the fact that his son had found a very pretty girl as his daughter-in-law, the bride’s father responded by saying, “I always knew that no one can outshine my daughter in this whole world.” By this time, the Professor had started to enjoy the ambience of the party and wished that angels would join them in this happy celebration. The Brigadier seemed confident that his friend’s wishes would come true as everyone would remember the grandeur of the baraat.

At this point, Neha, who had also got sozzled – thanks to some clever manipulation by the college gang at the afternoon bachelorette

party, decided to enter the scene. Poor thing tripped on a cable and fell prostrate in front of the two Bollywood stars. “Sorry Dad” was all she could muster before passing out. The Brigadier seemed confused and was not sure if his daughter had said sorry to him or to her would-be father-in-law.

And then, something remarkable took place. The Professor looked at Neha, lying prostrate in front of him and said, “I am a very lucky man. How many people can get a daughter-in-law who would prostrate and touch their feet? Get up dear girl, this emperor has forgiven you.”

Everyone was in splits. Neha was oblivious to the world. Bharat was equally nonplussed.

The ice had not merely been broken, it was crushed. There was great sigh of relief all around. The air of formality had finally been done away with and now people could come forward and mix with each other sans hesitation. The mirth had finally began.

And another inter caste wedding was already rocking.

from the horizon

FOR THE LOVE OF FOOD Cafe StayWoke at South Point Mall, DLF5, offers delightful twists to traditional Indian dishes, while keeping the healthy quotient of preparations intact

BY SUDESHNA ROY

A

soothing turquoise and offwhite setting, laid back vibe with a soft music in the background, Café StayWoke at South Point Mall, Gurugram, provides diners with the perfect atmosphere to unwind and experience a hearty time with their loved ones. Swing bench, graffiti and slogans on the white wall, wooden book shelves at cosy nooks with a splash of green, mesmerising

chandeliers, and comfort lighting with an eclectic menu – the décor of the café exudes understated elegance.

Speaking of the menu, StayWoke offers a varied range of fusion dishes, all worth a try. We would recommend the Caramel Banana Shake along with their signature Salmon, Dill, Capers and Cream Cheese Sandwich for your breakfast menu. For health-conscious people, who prefer to

avoid indulgent dishes, the café offers delectable salads and cereal bowls, with ingredients that are farm-fresh and homemade. The menu is mouth-watering with a plethora of options. You could check out Open Rye Bread that comes with healthy components—hummus and avocado mash, rocket leaves, beetroot slice, feta cheese and daikon—a proportionate mix of healthy and tasty ingredients. For those who love to experiment with newer dishes,

www.dlf 5 .in

93

from the horizon Traditional Indian platters are tweaked with a classy European flourish and need we say, the results are toothsome the Mushroom Vol-au-Vent is a must as it comes with a potpourri of scrumptious flavours. It has flaky puff pastry topped with delicious creamy mushroom in mascarpone and thyme, seasoned to perfection. The mushrooms are so tasty that they can be a dish into themselves. The touch of genius on this plate is the berry jam that provided a slight sweet taste and uplifted the flavours of the dish. Traditional Indian platters, for the main course, are tweaked with a classy European flourish and need we say, the results are toothsome. If you love fusion food, check out Baked Paneer Lababdar and Ratatoullie Pav Bhaji and you are bound to relish every bit of these dishes.

For desserts, we decided to zero in on the chef ’s preferences – Chocolate Semi Fredo and Mango Ice Cream. The Chocolate Semi Fredo came with orange segments,

94

high 5

orange peels and strawberry flavour that complemented the bitter chocolate taste of the dessert very well. The Mango Ice Cream had a unique combination of coconut cream, honey and chilli and we had to control our urge to not request for another serving.

For Abhinav Agarwal and Manali Guha, Owners, Cafe StayWoke, this platform translates their love for good food in a relaxed ambiance. Manali explains, “We believe in the concept of ‘gourmet casual’ – fine food in a casual setting.

We aim to make the unfamiliar dishes more approachable and familiar dishes, unique ones.” For both of them, apart from the décor, the only thing they wanted to put emphasis on was quality food. “From mayonnaise to barbeque sauce, everything is home-made in our restaurant, and this formula plays a significant role in making the dishes delectable as well as good for health,” she shares. We could not agree more.

astrology

AS THE STARS FORETELL

BY SUBODH BHARDWAJ

You should avoid hot arguments with your family members to keep the relations smooth. You will become more religious this time.

Months of November and December 2018 may prove to be problematic for married life where some misunderstanding may surface in the relations. Avoid any unnecessary arguments with spouse or beloved particularly during these months.

Remaining two months of 2018 may create problems due to misunderstanding in relations amongst family members. Some auspicious ceremony at home is likely to take place during last month of the year. You will also feel satisfied with the positive developments in your family during the month of November and December. Some of you may be forced to quit the job. You need to control the situation by your own efforts, wit and hard work.

During this period, hot arguments with family members will create divergence which may keep you tensed.

Health of spouse may be the cause of concern. Also, be aware and avoid any extra marital affair which will only exaggerate the circumstances to worst. Those who are appearing in competitive examination will also find this year favourable.

You will need to put enough money and human labour to fulfill your business goals.

During this time, you will continue to speed up some common efforts to make government and private plans successful. The lord of the profession, Mars will give you energy. At the same time, due to the auspiciousness of the Jupiter, you will be able to achieve the success. You will continue to struggle to make your profits better, however, nothing will benefit you. You will be dissatisfied with it.

In these months of the year, because of the minor problems your growth will slow down in business and career. However, in December you will have excitement in a career. But in the months of November, there will be conflicts with your partner. In these months of 2018, your financial condition will continue to be good. During this time, you will be keen to make your health better by doing the necessary exercises.

You will continue to strengthen your management system, in order to achieve business progress. You will see that in some cases either changes need to be made or you will be looking for a market full of prospects. By this, you will be able to get good profits.

However, you will need to accelerate efforts according to your system and available resources only then there will be the advantage.

You may have to suffer loss at both the social and economic level. This will benefit you in the coming time. You will continue to progress normally in your love relations. In these months of 2018, you will be sluggish in your educational efforts. You will need to make meaningful efforts to succeed with your positive mind because the auspicious relation of the planets will remain in the areas of career and business.

In these months of this year you will be getting fame in your professional life. There will be opportunities to further strengthen the business.

However, various small problems might continue to exist. You will be prepared to take some decisions which will bring good business. This will keep your freshness alive. Using patience and discretion, you will continue to pay full attention to your study to ensure progress.

Your focus will be on the utilisation of these months of the year. As a result, you will be able to get higher positions in career. But the situation of ups and downs in social life will remain.

In December, you will be wellbalanced in your love relationships.

During this time you may get nominated for a post. The hard work done in the areas of study will be successful.

The efforts you make will be good and will bring desirable success. You will be in an effort to strengthen your career in areas of information communication and technology.

During this time, there will be a rise in your reputation.

But in some cases, your expenses will increase. Your physical strength will remain in the position of growth.

By this, you will be able to do your work more accurately.

For consultations:

In these months, you will be able to earn good progress in the business areas.

Many endeavours will be successful.

In December, on the one hand, there will be concerns for business advancement.

In order to fulfill certain tasks, there will be lack of funds. By this, you will be disturbed.

But working with patience and conscience will surely benefit.

There will be enough opportunities in business life. In these months of 2018, you will be in an effort to enhance your personal relationships.

But due to the inauspicious planetary effect, you will have to go through a series of differences with your partner in relations.

You may suffer from health-related problems. But because of your selfconfidence, you will be able to overcome the pain.

subodh_45@hotmail.com

+91 9811275777

www.dlf 5 .in

95

laurels

CONGRATULATIONS! High5’s heartiest appreciation for DLF5 residents, who contributed informative and engrossing articles in this issue of the magazine

CHIARA LO FARO

KRISHAN KALRA

SHANTANU CHATTERJEE

T K MUKHERJEE

Chiara Lo Faro, Krishan Kalra, Shantanu Chatterjee, T K Mukherjee have won an exclusive Dining* voucher each.

You can be the next lucky winner! Share interesting anecdotes or photographs from your recent vacations, your views on an excellent restaurant you recently tried in DLF5, original stories or poems you have penned, or simply an amazing piece of information you want fellow DLF5 residents to know!

KANIKA TOKAS Follow us on :

96

high 5

Know Your CRM tokas-kanika@dlf.in / DLF5 I

/@MyDLF5 I

+919711824552 /@MyDLF5

Actual image of The Crest

Actual image of show apartment at The Crest by Sarita Handa

Actual image of show apartment at The Crest by Iqrup + Ritz

MOVE INTO MAGNIFICENCE Six stunning towers designed by Hafeez Contractor | Interior design of public spaces and clubhouse by Richmond International | Air-conditioned lobbies | High speed elevators | Zone-V seismic consideration | Floor to oor height 3.2 m | Shuttle elevators leading from basements to entrance lobbies for enhanced security | Kitchen pre-ďŹ tted with imported modular cabinetry and Siemens appliances | Large outdoor decks for sit outs 4 bed luxury residences and penthouses INR 6.5 crore onwards | Possession in full swing The Crest, Park Drive, Off Raghvendra Marg (Erstwhile DLF Golf Course Road), Gurugram

For personalized visit, please call +91 989 108 8844