Red november 2016

` 50/NOVEMBER - DECEMBER 2016 VIZAG

FEATURE

WEDDING FACILITIES

SCOPE

Make your D-Day memorable

SHINING STAR The ace guitarist goes nostalgic in City of Destiny

KIDDOS

SAVE YOUR CHILDREN Experts warn against gizmos

WELLNESS

DOC SPEAK A stitch in time saves nine

REVIEWS

NEW FINDS Take a look at what the festive season brought to the city

PrimaLavanya Donna

RNI: APENG/2011/38387 | POSTAL REG. NO. VSP/177/2014-2016

LIFESTYLE PERSONALITIES CINEMA FEATURE LUXURY EVENTS REVIEWS FOOD PARTIES

CONCEIVING MIRACLES • DELIVERING SMILES • NURTURING LIVES

BEST PEDIATRIC HOSPITAL IN INDIA

RANKED NO. 1 BY

DR.V.S.V.PRASAD, MD Pediatrics ( A.I.I.M.S. New Delhi ), Fellow - Ped.Crit.Care & Neonatology, UK & USA. Chief Consultant Neonatologist & Pediatric Intensivist Chief Executive Officer, Lotus Hospital for Women & Children 6-2-29, Lakdikapul. Hyderabad - 500004

NOW IN VIZAG Behind Gothi Son's Opp. Governor's Bungalow, Opp. Waltair Club, Siripuram, Visakhapatnam - 530 003

/lotushospitalind www.lotushospitals.in

ULTRA WASH TEX PVT LTD Express Laundry Services in Visakhapatnam A Complete Garment Care

L

WITH RE TE XT U

ISO 9001 : 2008

G

DR

IN

Y

R

C

N A E

ING

DRY CLEANING • WET CLEANING • ROLLING • STEAM PRESS • STAIN REMOVAL

Waltair Club 8790902827| Panduranga Puram 8790687656| Lawsons Bay Colony: 8790902816 | MVP Colony: 8790902823 | Visalakshi Nagar: 8978780345 | Gurudwara: 8790902819 | NGGOs'Colony: 8790687657 | R&B, NH5: 8978780348 | Sujatha Nagar: 8978780346 | Naval Park: 8978780349 | Peda Waltair (Polamamba Temple: 8297468555 | Steel Plant (Sector - 6): 8297218555

A UNIT OF ULTRA GROUP OF COMPANIES Factory Address: Plot No 66 & 67, Apparel Export Park, Autonagar, Visakhapatnam – 530 012.

T: +91-891-3291717 / 1616 / +91-891-2766222 / 333, M: +91-8790902818 / 2819 / 2826 E: info@ultrawashtex.com, w: www.ultrawashtex.com

Red Reviews Second half of every year is the festival time and tradesmen wait to launch their new ventures during this auspices period. Here are a few latest.

34 Red Feature Marriages may be made in heaven; it is the new crop of entrepreneurs who are helping us solemnize them on earth. Imagine, what we would have done without them.

44 Red Kiddos Seldom do we come across a child who does not have his ďŹ ngers on some gadget or the other. It is not a done thing, warn the experts. We listen to them this Chidren’s Day

Red Haute Glam doll Lavanya won many hearts and awards for her acting skills. Starting as a model from Mumbai, she came a long way. As a leading actor in Tollywood, she made a place for herself.

red | november 2016 | 16

62 Red Scope Dhruv Viswanath, renowned guitarist performed in the city. He was here not only to perform but also retrace his roots as his great grandfather was the ďŹ rst ever chief of Vizag Port.

FRESHER’S DAY AT SUN COLLEGE

DESIRABLE FARE AT GOD A collection of capes in delicate colours, intricately handcrafted with unique style and embroideries was curated at the exhibition Goods of Desire. They are so versatile; you can wear them from 9.00 am to 9.00pm.

The outfits are not too dressy for the day and adequately classy for the evening. With the wedding season round the corner, god displayed a wide range that included layered tunics with metallic embellishment, ponchos, gota-chanderis and lots more. Fabrics were also on the display.

red | november 2016 | 18

College parties are always a source of joy and leave indelible impressions on fresh mind. The13th fresher’s celebration - FRESHANZA 2016, which was hosted by the senior students was a colourful programme. Guests fo honour G.Nageshwar Rao - Vice-Chancellor, Andhra University and Prabhu Kishore, M.D, Novotel & Varun Group met the students and interacted with them. Their encouraging words and suggestions encouraged and inspired us, say the freshers. Sun College is always in forefront in organising events of this nature.

PRAJWAL VANI STUDENTS EXCEL Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, in coordination with Special Olympics Bharat conducted the state-level games for the differently abled athletes of five districtsSrikakulam, Vizyanagaram, Vishkapatnam , East Godavari and West Godavari. Doing proud to their institution, students of Prajwal Vani won 4 gold and 4 silver and 6 bronze medals. The programme was conducted with the support of the Andhra University Physical Education Department. Prof.Nageswara Rao, Vice-Chancellor Andhra University, Suchitra, Founder of Prajwala Vani and Saraswati were prominently present at the event.

SWATHI THANKS LEADERS It is only relevant to recall that Swathi Promoters which have been in the forefront when it comes to promoting charity events or taking steps to save environment or organising health-related events like yoga. Their endeavours always enjoy the blessings of leading personalities. MLC M.V.V.S.Murthi, MLAs Palla Srinivasa Rao, Vasupalli Ganesh Kumar and Gana Babu participated in the distribution of eco-friendly Ganesh idols taken up by the firm at various localities in the city. To place their gratitude on record, Chairman, Swati Promoters Krishna Reddy and Director Ramesh Reddy met the leaders at the TDP party office and presented them with bouquets and shawls.

red | november 2016 | 20

GEETHA PATS KRISHNA REDDY Araku MP Kothapalli Geetha visited the office of Swathi Promoters to complement the Chairman, Krishna Reddy for the welfare activities he has been taking up.

She also took this opportunity to appraise the Reddy of the problems of the underprivileged tribals and requested him to extend his welfare activities to the tribal area too. Reciprocating the gesture, Krishna Reddy facilitated the Member of Parliament.

THEY WALK FOR A CAUSE Sneha Sandhya Age Care Foundation, in association with Homi Bhabha Cancer Hospital and Research Centre organised an awareness walk. Nearly 800 people from various fields and clubs like 5 AM Club, Rotary Club and educational institutions took part in the rally that was agged off by the Commissioner of Police T.Yoganand.

Dr. Raghunadharao and Dr. Vidya of Homi Bhabha Cancer Hospital and Research Centre, Managing Trustee of Age Care Foundation and Dr.N.S. Raju, were prominent among the people who took part in the walk. Dr. Meenakshi Anantram presented the show. Social activists Gurmeet Kohli, V.Sarada, Satya Shri and Supraja worked hard to make the walk a success.

red | november 2016 | 22

YET ANOTHER HIRAWAT OUTLET To satiate the ever growing thirst of the customers, Hirawats, the city’s best known family fashion store opened its new outlet in Madhurawada. Champa Devi Hirawat inaugurated the shop. “The next generation of promoters behind Hirawats are looking forward to making a foray into retail expansion after considerable study in the field in India and abroad.” The store will continue the rich traditions of Hirawat and stands as one-stop shop for the entire family. This is a move taken to spare their loyal customers of the locality from making trips to their stores in the centre of the city, insist the Hirawat owners.

A TREAT FOR THE EYE The celebrations of Diwali got more vibrant with the sinful array of latest collection of western wear, Indian wear and Indo-western clothing on sale recently at the ‘Sin’ Exhibition which was held in ARSH in Kirlampudi. The exhibition had a mesmerizing collection. It was well appreciated by all the women who visited the show.

The collection was affordable and handpicked yet stylish and unique. Shaheda and Nanditha successfully got in a beautiful fusion of east and west. The response to the exhibition was overwhelming.

red | november 2016 | 24

TIME FOR A NEW PHONE Much awaited Apples new iphone 7 and iphone7plus were launched in India on7 Oct and these phones got launched in Vizag at iMagic Apple Store by CMR Group chairman M.V.Ramana and Dr. Duke of iMagic. The first phone was handed over to Ramana. Chota, Venkatesh Babu, Joint Director Works and Accounts and P. Srinivas, Superintendent Administration and Works and Projects and others participated in the event. All the Apple phone fans collected phones from the store and customers got a hand on experience with live demos at iMagic Store.

CAKE MIXING IN STYLE Marking the beginning to the festive season, Welcom Hotel, Grand Bay, revisited the age old traditional Christmas cake mixing ceremony recently. Executive Chef, Jampala Uma Kiran and their team invited inhouse guests and the hotel’s executives to participate in the ritual. Everyone rolled up their sleeves and had fun digging their hands into the huge piles black currants, cashew nuts, red cherries, figs, dry apricots, candied ginger, candied orange peels, almonds, prunes, raisins, walnut and spices of ground cinnamon, cardamom and cloves to be used in this cake along with beverages and spirits.

GRAND SPA LAUNCH Toni and Guy recently had a grand launch in the city. They are experts in haircut, candle polishing and candle scrub and ice-cream pedicure. And all the products are from international brands. They have special spa massages and well trained professional therapists. They are also well-known for their bridal make-up. It was launched by Manikandan, the CEO of Toni and Guy. The partners of this salon are Venkateswara Rao and Prasad Varma, Kaasi, Tajur. The event was a grand success.

red | november 2016 | 26

NARESH’S GESTURE ACF It was a fitting finale to the day-long programmes held

by Sneha Sandhya Age Care Foundation and Homi Bhabha Cancer Hospital and Research Centre. The events marked the World Hospice and Palliative Care Day. Collector Pravin Kumar was the chief guest.

Dr.N.B.Vijaya Kumar of Andhra Medical College was the guest of honour. Dr. Raghunadharao, Director, Homi Bhabha Cancer Hospital and Research Centre delivered the key note address. Managing Trustee of Age Care Foundation Dr.N.S.Raju and Dr.Vidya spoke on the occasion. Naresh of Symbiosis Technology donated Rs.1 lakh to the ACF.

BASH FOR THE FESTIVAL OF LIGHTS Sun International College held a pre-Diwali bash. This meet gave memorable moments of joy and happiness to all the concerned. The sparkling diyaas, the impeccably dressed up students in traditional wear and the mouth-watering dishes were the highlights fo the event.

The presence of the faculty members and the co-operation of the management added colour to the event.

DECADE OF SUCCESS Siri Venkateswara Developers Pvt.ltd. is one of the trusted and rapidly growing real estate companies in Vizag. 2016 has been a landmark year for the promoters in many ways. It is their 10th year and they launched four VUDA approved ventures. On Vijaya Dasami day, they launched their 13th venture Nandanavanam Prasiddha (LP No 143/2016) at Anandapuram and the14th venture Nandanavanam Subhaprada at Rajapulova 'Y' junction.

The brochure giving the details of the projects was launched by the Managing Director K.K Raju, Satvika and Hanvika. The developers have announced special prices for this festive season.

red | november 2016 | 27

KVR BIRTHDAY BASH Kalyan Venkat Reddy, Chairman of KVR Estate celebrated his 47th birthday recently at his own venture at Vijayanagarm. His brother K. Sura Reddy and his son Ravikrishna Reddy had made the celebration grand and colourful. His family members and partners showered him love and blessings.

FRESHER’S DAY AT RISALI Risali Institute of Aviation and Hotel Management celebrated Fresher’s Day recently at Hotel Green Park. On this occasion, the students took part in various contest and showcased their talents. They participated in dance, mimicry, fashion show and singing. Dean V.S.N.Raju, Academic Director Vivekanand and Centre Director, K.Srinivas were present for this special day. This programme was attended by Cdr. Ujwal of Navy as the chief guest.

red | november 2016 | 28

SAI ASHIRI SHOW A BIG HIT Providing an opportunity to the jewellery-lovers of the city, Sai Ashiri organised a two-day exhibition at Novotel Hotel.

Deviating from the run-of the mill inaugurations and formalities of chief guests, the owners and well known jewellers Fathima and Pendyala Anil Kumar opted for a quiet inauguration. The honour of being the first customer was given to Sridhar of Sri Vamsi. The exhibition had witnessed more than 800 footfalls. “The response was so overwhelming that found it difficult to meet it. If the encouragement is of this order, we would certainly mull over more events in future,” says Fathima. The customers at the exhibition were creme de la creme.

red | november 2016 | 30

red | november 2016 | 31

HALLOWEEN BASH Teeny Boppers and their families were all decked up in their best costumes and walked down the Halloween ramp show. It was followed by distribution of cute Halloween-themed goodie bags, participation certificates and prizes. Hawah Mahal was done up with scarecrows, Jack-o-lanterns and photo booth. “As a school that approaches education holistically, we let our students experience various cultures in a fun and interactive way. I am overwhelmed by the enthusiasm and joy of the participants,” says Poonam Shah Srinath, Correspondent of Teeny-Boppers.

red | november 2016 | 32

GREENDALE GOES SOOKY Greendale's Halloween bash brought all the boys and girls giggling with delighted terror making the ambience very ‘scary’. As the pumpkin lanterns lit the place, well costumed witches, paper bagged goblins, rubber masked imps and bed sheeted ghosts shouted ‘Trick or Treat’ to ward off evil spirits spreading joy sans all fears.

Chairman Dr.S.Ravindra, Correspondent Dr.S.Vijaya, Dr.S.Rajendra, Secretary Alwardas Group and Vijaya Rajendra, Executive Director IIAM Surya Teja graced the occasion. ShrawanSomani,Chairman, Vizag Round Table 77 and his wife Reena were the special invitees.

Executive Director Divya Das welcomed guests.

REVIEW

Dazzling Smile

is committed to the same. Located at MVP, Double Roadthe most populous area in the city of destiny, the brand aims at building a foundation of trust by treating the patients as special individuals with personalized care and a brand to trust for all their dental needs.

S

URAKSHA HEALTH PARK ventures into the new forte of advanced global dental care with the brand name SURAKSHA DENTAL PARK and captioned as “WINNING SMILES-manufactured and delivered”. The vision of this clinic is to have a chain of 100 clinics with pan India presence in next three years.

Suraksha Dental Park, is a natural extension of Suraksha Group Hospitals. Dr. Raghu, Mr.Kiran and Dr. Diwakar, being the next generation entrepreneurs have come up with this project to bring the million dollar smiles to the people of Visakhapatnam. An honest and beautiful smile, a hearty laugh are important elements in one’s life and the institute

red | november 2016 | 34

The staff are well qualified to handle special requirements in the field. The clinic is ably backed up with all resources in terms of equipment, expertise, lab facilities, diagnostic and follow-up protocol. Suraksha Dental Park’s commitment to service sets them apart from the other players. With a great ambience, special equipment and instruments used for the treatment, it is the right place to be for your problems. They conduct proactive procedures like: smile designing, cosmetic gum surgeries, crown bridges, dentures, implants, restorative procedures, complete oral rehabilitation, comprehensive pediatric dental treatment, braces, clear aligners, are some of the facilities that are available here. Their endeavor is in changing Visakhapatnam into a city of beautiful smiles.

So, Vizagites, there is no need to hide your smiles, let your teeth breath and smile away to glory with that dazzling perfect smile.

Timing:9.00am to 9.00 pm, Sunday:9.00am to 2.00pm: Ph.no:0891- 2585868

REVIEW

another diamond from hirawats

T

he city’s most known Hirawats, which has been offering a rich range to satisfy the sartorial needs of the entire family for the last four decades, has now opened its branch in Madhurwada . Spread over 2200 sq. ft, the single oor store is the new attraction opposite Pepsi company, Madhurwada. The residents of the locality have been asking for a fashion store of this magnitude also that they would be spared of the arduous trek to the centre of city. “For the last several years, quite a few of our patrons and customers have been complaining that they are finding it difficult to travel to the city, especially in the evenings. That the traffic snarls and road conditions are playing spoil sport for even the best of shopaholics is a known fact. That made us think of taking the merchandise to the people who are living in the far-ung areas. Hence we opened this outlet, which can be accessed by all and sundry, ” says Managing Director Ashok Hirawat.

Living up to the tradition of Hirawats, the new outlet too stocks wide range of products that satisfy the needs of all age groups. Trendy, executive, partywear or formal- you ask and they have it for you.

Timings: 10.00 am to 9.00 pm Ph.no: 0891-2728321

The new outlet is sure to make its mark as it carries the same commitment to quality and customer satisfaction.

With its counters well stocked and salesmen polite and helpful, shopping here is a pleasurable experience.

red | november 2016 | 35

in

REVIEW

A

MX can aesthetically redesign a GM motors vehicle “Cruze” into a plush convertible or a primeval mustang to an astonishing sedan. AMX has designed quite a few custom rides and is renowned for its creative genius. It is widely believed that AMX has single handedly raised the Indian car designing industry with most unique design concepts. The AMX name originates from the "American Motors Experimental" code used on a concept vehicle Everybody thinks twice before buying a custom-built car. You may admire it, but you will always be in a dilemma whether to buy it or not.

There is more to getting your car customized than merely altering its appearance. Apart from the obvious boost in looks, customization also makes way for better fuel efficiency, safety and convenience. We shall look at a few aspects on how it adds value to your ride.

Reworking your car’s appearance sets it apart from the rest on the road. This also offers a great feeling inside of you while driving.

Agreed, this is an emotional quotient but it can make wonders on a bad day. Few of the most striking appearance upgrades comprise two-tone paint designs, cowl induction hoods and body kits.

AMX is backed by European trained professional who can transform an ordinary looking car to extraordinary master piece. His passion for art of designing, car modifiers brought lot of accolades from afuent class across the city. Constantly thriving for creativity with the support of professionals in India and abroad is creating waves in the town today. Team AMX is committed to deliver high quality products at optimum price and meet complete satisfaction of its customers with innovative and specialist design.

Address: Siripuram Petrol station, Contact- 915468 1111, 915468 3111 red | november 2016 | 36

REVIEW

HOTEL WITH A DIFFERENCE

L

ocated 500 mts from Diamond Park, V-Hotel has an individualistic style of its own. The one thing that strikes you in the first instance is that the entire hotel is aesthetically decorated with indoor plants. The unique variety of cactus actually draws your attention to this gorgeous place.

The rooms are clean and tidy and are equipped with at screen TVs. The three types of rooms- Comfort Room (Rs. 2499), Executive room (Rs.2999) and the Premier Room (Rs.3799). The hotel offers a spacious multi-functional banquet for private and corporate occasions. The board room can host 20 people. It is perfect for business meetings. It also offers car hire. The hotel is very conveniently located.

Mr. Venkatneshwar Gudapati is the chairman and Mr Vinayak Gudapati is the managing director of this hotel. red | november 2016 | 38

The Olive restaurant offers multi -cuisine. Many corporate houses conduct their seminars here. Amongst the continental dishes the hot favourite is ‘Olive Polenta’ which is a bed of Mediterranean vegetables served with mushroom and raisin served with garlic bread. Thai red curry and Thai green curry are the other special dishes.

The best thing about this place is that the dishes are cooked and served with lot of love and care. Chef M Srinivas’s signature dish is ‘Peshwari Fish Tikka’, which is fish marinated in Indian spices.

I am still salivating after trying the deliciously spicy Andhra cuisine. If there was ever a competition for cooking up the fieriest delicacies, a native of Andhra Pradesh or Telangana would certainly win away all the glory. Red chilli is produced in abundance here which makes it a hot favourite among the locals.

Timings- 6 am to 11pm | Meal for two- Rs.800 Contact-0891- 3336666

REVIEW

up your

style quotient

A

massive four-storey building, intricately done in glitter and gold is the city’s new jewel. The 25th store of Kalamandir at CBM compound, Asilmetta, is all sparkle and shine with its exteriors lit up by LED lights that change colour. You enter into the huge portal that has walls done subtly with patterned shimmering chandeliers creating a cosy atmosphere for shopaholics. A new age, sophisticated charm pervades the glasspaneled room. Racks in rust brown are neatly done to accommodate beautiful silhouettes. The entire ground oor is stocked up on fusion wear in different hues and patterns.

Kalamandir stocks up on classic timeless pieces, and provides a premium shopping experience for fashion lovers in Vizag. The second oor has fancy, designer and handloom saris in unique designs and patterns. Explore their range of Kanjeevaram and other existing forms of Pattu saris in the third oor and a wide

collection of western wear in the fourth oor. Flowing gowns, crop tops and skirts, luscious fabrics, elaborate drapes and intense hues are what the entire oor is ooded with. Unwind yourselves in the heaps of fabrics!

Exploiting style vs fashion, this new fashion house in town decides to draw a new story from the rich vocabulary of Indian design and craft through their contemporary designer store. So do go ahead and drown yourselves in the sea of beautiful designs and fabrics.

Timings: 11:00 am to 9 pm | Contact: 0891-6666686

red | november 2016 | 39

REVIEW

Quality Living C

elest, Vizag offers you quality life. Imagine living in a meticulously planned space which offers every comfort of modern living and celebrates the rich tradition that defines us. Intricately designed homes built on the principle of Vastu and modern architecture offers its residents everything needed to lead a wholesome life like a world class club house, beautiful landscaping and airconditioned convenience shopping plaza right in the heart of Gajuwaka.

Celest is Vizag’s first FDI (foreign Direct Investment) real estate project offering

red | november 2016 | 40

a grand new world for the people of the city.

It is first of its kind gated community in Vishakhpatnam and is spread over more than six acres with vast landscaped areas. The area is completely pollution free and it offers complete healthy living with ample trees and greenery. Amenities are spread over 35,000 sqft including luxurious club house built over 4 oors offering a wide range of sports facilities with two swimming pools, gymnasium, cricket net, badminton, jogging tracks and extensive indoor games.

The highlights of this project are contemporary three side open apartments, fully compliant with Vastu.

The quality is high end and top of the line construction quality has been used.

Unmatched landscape designed by renowned architects offering ample greenery and access to nature. The place has 24X7 power and water back-up provision. It is a high security complex with CCTV surveillance.

It is a pleasure to live in a place where tree lined boulevards welcome the residents with lush green parks, picturesque pergolas and beautifully designed water bodies at vital points that can soothe the mood of anybody residing here. Sunlight and shade blend seamlessly with modern architecture to

make everyday living a unique experience. Celest offers both two and three bed roomed apartment in the city with unmatched landscapes which are truly inspired by nature. The place is inspired by nature with a series of interconnected orchards, gardens, meadows sitting alcoves across the complex. The place has a grand entrance plaza with water fountains and trees.

Celest offers a beautiful club. They believe a healthy body breeds a healthy mind. And what’s work without fun.

Whether you are looking for a healthy lifestyle or spending a fun filled evening with your loved ones, Club Celest is the new place to be. This world class property in Visakhapatnam, is thoughtfully structured and completely

rejuvenates you. Gajuwaka, truly is a destination in the making. It is just ten minutes drive from Visakhapatnam airport and has many good schools and hospitals in the nearby areas.

The Celest, FDI real estate first project is a premier project driven by the private equity arm of SRS Private Investments, a global investment firm based in New York with deep expertise in real estate investment across India. SRS manages over 300 million dollars of offshore capital in India and has invested this capital since 2007 across multiple real estate projects. SRS' marquee real estate portfolio includes large residential projects, residential plots, commercial offices, hospitality & retail projects in India’s metros and upcoming cities including Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, Kolkata, Hyderabad, Bhubaneswar, Trivandrum and Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh. Ramesh Sharma, GM, sales and marketing says, “It is not an ordinary project, but a classy one.”

red | november 2016 | 41

REVIEW

KING OF ALL GOOD

S

pice is nice and you will realise that when you step into this restaurant. Though Kings Food House a multi-cuisine restaurant, serving both Indian and Chinese food, the taste of the biriyani still lingers in my mouth and I must tell you I am still salivating. All of you who crave to have that typical spicy Andhra biriyani, then this is the right place to be.

The hypnotising aroma, the finely avoured rice – less of essence and colour – speaks of perfect combination of spices that are required to enhance the taste, served piping hot with sides like Andhra style chicken curry.

It is the best restaurant in town if you are fond of typical Andhra food. Sridhar Sakineti, the owner of the restaurant has paid special attention to the food. The ambience is nothing to boast about, but it is centrally located in Seethammadhara and has become a hot favourite among all spicy food lovers. The restaurant was inaugurated by MLA, Mr. Velagapudi Ramkrishnan on 14th September.

My friend and I ordered their very special ‘Majestic Biriyani’. Though the chef was not very eager to disclose the recipe, but he shared a little bit about the red | november 2016 | 42

ingredients. The chicken was soaked for twenty minutes in buttermilk and then each piece was deep fried and the long grain aromatic rice was added to it. Another delicacy you must try here is the ‘Mumtaj Kebab’ made of minced chicken. The kebabs are soft and it will melt in your mouth and most importantly it is not over-done. Though you might feel a little guilty after committing the crime of gluttony, but it is definitely a great place to go back again and again.

Contact- | Timings- 12.00 to 11pm

AD

for that

perfect

wedding

W

eddings don’t remain a quiet private family affair any more nor do they go as per the plan, despite one’s best efforts and intentions. Thanks to the rough and tumble of the modern life, relatives and neighbours no more chip in with their

ideas and assistance. With standards of living going up and with people being better equipped with money power, it is only natural that they are ready to shell out mega bucks for the facilities. With the protracted wedding season going on, there cannot be more opportune time for us to talk of the services the city offers for people who want to be spared of the mind boggling planning and tiring leg work. Here we go….

By V. Sarada | Shoot by Dhana Vijay

The Park

Dimple Gandhi

Nalesa Floral Fusion

red | november 2016 | 44

Ajay Agarwal

Creativeplus Events

V.V. Ramana

Villart Photography

Divya & P.V.S.R.Raju Fathima & Anil Kumar Arnav Tavels Sa’AshriJewellers

Bezawada SaiBabu Sharat Pirates & Aayushi Jain Ayyappa Catering

Swaroop Varma aka Mr.King

Lalitha

Modern Mehandi

Fragrance of Success

Dimple Gandhi

T

How did the journey begin?

Coincidentally, it was at a wedding that this twist in my career took place.

Ms.Geethanjali happened to meet me at a wedding in the city. Noting my passionate interest in this field, she chose me to manage the show from Vizag, the city which is turning into the most sought after venue for destination and high end weddings.

What are the contemporary trends?

Use of subtle colours, decor which is less flamboyant and classic. Giving the ambient feel is the thing.

What are the services you offer?

Complete wedding planning solutions.

From the selection and design of the wedding card to making sure the couple picks the best honeymoon package possible.

What is your USP? Firstly: Flowers: Floral fusion is the mainstay of our enterprise and the variety of flower species we use, give us that competitive edge and it unconditionally becomes our USP. Secondly: Adornments At Nalesa Floral Fusion, we love to see red | november 2016 | 46

he CareerCast 2016 report on Most Stressful Jobs names the work of an event co-ordinator as the 5th most stressful one in the world. It is only stating the obvious, because almost all the aspects of event management are challenging. The task becomes doubly challenging, especially when it comes to planning weddings. “That is because we are dealing with people who are not professionally skilled or trained,” says Dimple Gandhi, the local associate of Geethanjali Santhosh of Nalesa Floral Fusion, Bangaluru. Dimple talks of her three year-journey with the south India’s most sophisticated and sought after wedding planner, besides touching on the philosophy of the firm.

that every corner of the premise is a happy space. Hence we believe in value addition to a client's imagination by using adornments (beautiful props).

Thirdly: The most important USP of our brand is embedded deep within the fundamentals of our company policy - No compromise!

If we commit to deliver 100%, our effort is to give the client 110% or more!

Hence every minutest detail is given equal importance and there is no place for compromise on quality.

What are the hurdles you face?

I think the right word is challenges.

The challenge is not only to meet the clients' expectations but also to over-achieve them.

How long have you been in this field?

For the past three years and the organisation is 18 years old.

The venues you work in...

Convention centres, Banquet Halls, Wedding Mandaps, antique houses, and resorts. Above all, at Nalesa we have the power to create a venue out

of barren lands.

How do you deal with day of disasters?

The 3P tool - patience, positivity and perseverance. Patience to stand tall through the rough time and take it in your stride; to be positive for the future and learn from our mistakes; the key is perseverance. This keeps us going in the long run.

What are the 3 most important things you look at?

Meeting the deadlines; detailing in the décor and the most important thing is precision. Even if all the other factors are fulfilled and if precision is missing, the outcome is going to be nullified. At Nalesa, we cannot afford to see a loose end hanging.

How do you make every décor different from the other?

It is very simple. Every client is different. Hence every design is structured according to his needs. If they are new and different, we make sure to add a touch of finesse in every aspect of the décor.

Nalesa Floral Fusion sets

Contact: Matrushree, 9-13-45/3/7, New Resapuvanipalem, VIP Road, Visakhapatnam Ph no: 9000 780 055

Geethanjali WEDDED TO VOCATION If you ask anyone about their dream wedding, all of them say just one thing – that they want to have the best wedding possible. That is what a wedding planner should strive to give them, opines Geethanjali Santhosh of Nalesa Floral Fusion.

Known for her successful contribution to many high-end weddings and based in Bengaluru, Geetanjali takes up assignments in South India. It all started with casual dabbling in flower decoration for this MBA degree holder. Encouraged by the applause she earned in a very short time, she went on to become a full-fledged wedding planner.

Earlier, only NRIs used to avail the services of planners to organise weddings in India. But of late, tech-savvy youngsters are turning to planners as they value their time and peace of mind over everything else.

Moreover, only affluent families used to go to wedding planners but now even the middle and uppermiddle class families are turning to them.

This augurs well for the event

hands-on with respect to hospitality on the day of wedding. She gets young couples of the family to lead the team at the reception to give it a personal touch. That guests generally like to be welcomed by a known face instead of a uniformed professional, is her contention.

management industry.

Her style of working is unique. Every wedding that she takes up is a class apart as she goes above and beyond what is expected of her. She invests time with the family to understand their requirements and coordinate with vendors to make it a reality. She invests time with the vendors since they play a crucial role in the event. She takes care of the entire wedding, end to end.�

Proper planning, training and coordination are three imperatives for the success of any wedding. Three to six months is the average time required to plan and execute it, depending on how elaborate it is.

Of course, there were times when she had planned very elaborate weddings even at very short notices.

Geethanjali puts in her 200% to ensure that the guests have a memorable time and go back with a smile on their faces. Her ultimate reward is the satisfaction of the families of the bride and the groom.

Geethanjali insists the family to be

red | november 2016 | 47

Eventful Journey

A

jay Agarwal of Creative Plus Events, with 20 years of experience as a planner who organized 300 weddings, is a man for all seasons. He is flooded with requests from

Kolkata, Bilaspur and Raipur as he offers one-stop solution to the people who are looking for thematic and beach front weddings. With travel, food, stay, decoration and entertainment all rolled into one, his packages are attractive and suit pockets of all sizes. Ask him why Vizag has become the hotspot for destination weddings, pat comes the reply, “The city is chosen for its smartness and scenic beauty. It is inexpensive despite the high-end facilities it offers.” He not only talks of the new trends in the age-old tradition called- wedding but also throws light on the nitty-gritty.

What is the most crucial part of the wedding that needs attention?

It is welcoming the wedding party. For example, I strive to give something quintessentially Vizag. For one wedding, I got the garlands made out of shells, instead of flowers to greet the guests. They were thrilled as they could physically carry back a memory with them.

How do you conceptualise an event and do up a venue?

When I look at a venue, my mind goes on over and over how I should bind the place, decorate it or make use of the available elements in it. For example, if I get a space dotted with trees and plants, I strive to include them seamlessly into my theme. I go for eco-friendly components and try to recycle the discarded material like empty bottles and old tyres. We can actually create beauties out of these things which we generally throw away. A little spotlight here and a

red | november 2016 | 48

brush of colour there are enough to turn them into captivating and lovely eye-catchers. You find my décor replete with such dainty pieces of art.

What are the contemporary trends in the weddings?

A long list of guests, extravagant and exquisitely decked up venues, lavish spreads of delicacies and a series of indispensable rituals are the key ingredients of the 'big fat Indian wedding'. Nowadays with the change of generation, people are opting for more natural (eco-friendly) decor and less flashy, yet grand ‘Talk of the Town’ weddings. They love the subtle style and don’t want to compromise on the show.

People wouldn’t want to stress themselves any more. They need that quirkiness, style and elegance without tiring themselves out. This is where we come in. With enhanced exposure and communications and

with a number of inter-state marriages taking place, there is a great blend of customs and rituals. Many south Indians are incorporating the northern traditions like mehandi and sangeet in their marriages, where as many clients from the north want to witness south Indian dances. We had the entire entertainment based on Andhra Pradesh folk arts for a couple who came all the way from the US. What events do you orgainse ?

Pre-wedding functions, engagement, mehandi, dhoti ceremony, GeetSangeet, birthdays, bachelor parties, anniversaries besides weddings.

What are the new demands of the present day client?

Elegant decoration at a low budget.

Delivery on time.

What is your USP? We are creative and budgetfriendly. We customize the event according to the clients’ aspirations and imagination.

I always mull over ways and methods to give takeaway memories for the guests. When I set up the photo booth for a reception, I included the picture of old light house as the backdrop which is unique to the city.

Any unforgettable incident that you can narrate?

The day is fresh on my mind. After the event, the client hugged me and with tears in his eyes said, “My daughter’s wedding was brilliant. Tell me what I can do for you?” He showered me with love, gifts, greeting cards. This is what I always want as a return gift.

What are the hurdles you face?

An unexpected rain (laughs).

How long have you been in this business?

We have been in this business for the past 20 years.

What types of venues do you work in?

Any place- outdoor, indoor, open grounds- can be turned into a beautiful venue. Hence I don’t fret over such issues.

How do you deal with day of disasters?

Each disaster is a lesson to learn from as we tackle it on the spur of the moment.

Describe the most challenging wedding you organised and how you handled it.

One of our client’s requested us to plan his wedding in two days.

Though the challenge was huge, we could meet it, that too on a grand successful note.

What are the three most important things you look at while putting it all together?

The venue, budget and time.

How do you make every décor different from the other?

One of the things that make decorating so much fun is the huge amount of resources that we have at our disposal. Each client thinks differently. In the first place, I try to read the client’s mind and work my way around it. Since we cater to different people with varied tastes, no two weddings are similar. Moreover, we make sure that none of them look alike.

How many weddings do you usually do in a year?

Around 30 weddings.

Do you handle event styling?

We are specialized in styling. From glass work to art work, from latest trends to traditions, from luxury to exclusiveness- for us minor detail plays a major role in styling.

What is your specialty, design or coordination?

A prefect design. It is impossible to organize an event without a perfect coordination among the team members.

What was the most unique wedding you ever planned?

All weddings we take up are customized and unique.

Contact: Flat no 409, Balayya Sastri layout, Venu Towers. Cell no.: +91 9346692915, +91 9848311960

New brides Go for old

Trinkets When one is talking of Pendyala Anil Kumar and Syed Salva Fathima, the husband and wife team of jewellers, one should be aware of the fact that they are the trendsetters. Their college acquaintance and culminated into a beautiful marriage. Sarayu and Ashrita are the two bundles of joy they are blessed with. It is little wonder the name of their outlet, Sa'Ashri, is a derivative from the girls’ names. Overlooking the majestic Bay of Bengal, their enormous flat includes the residential quarters and the sprawled out business space with very neatly stacked counters. “In UK, you generally find this concept of running both home and business from the same premises. We might not have pioneered it but our outlet became very popular. One of the reasons could be it gives the feel of domestic comfort to the customers,” say the couple, who moved back to India after living in New Castle Upon Tyne (United kingdom) for five years..

Fathima says she came a long way from a person who could not pick up her own jewellery to an expert who can talk of the ongoing trends in the market this wedding season with authority and clarity.

“There was a time the bride is expected to have basic sets- one gold, one emerald, one ruby and one kasulaperu. But now the trends have changed. Pachi work sets(flat diamonds), Guttapusala Haram, Ramapattabhishekam mala, Bottu

mala, Tussi work Necklace, have become imperatives. They are all heavy and stand out. That fashion comes into vogue in cycles is a known fact. These days brides want all those trinkets their grandmothers wore. Kamarpatti (vaddanam),jada, jadabillalu, bajubandh, big jhumkas, champaswaralu, chandbalis and mangtikka are the most sought after ornaments now. One set in Jadau (real polki diamonds) cannot be ignored. Diamonds are forever and a

set of diamonds must make it to the bride’s collection.”

In the offing Fathima says, “We have anything between half gram to to 200 grams a piece. We have our own workshop so we design and at times, customise as per the clients’ requirement. One does not get our kind of pieces anywhere else. We have 200 varieties of black beads, daily wear jewellery, besides exclusive bridal collection.”

Contact Info 301 Oakwood Jasti Square, Pandurangapuram, Visakhapatnam 530003.

Ph: 0891-2727777 | 9502000777 | 8978444777 Branch:20/18/1, Sri Ramnagar Colony, 100 feet Ring Road, Vizianagaram. 535002. Ph: 08922-222677 | 8885233338

A Click Apart D

uring his 26 years of a brilliant career, V.V. Ramana, the man behind the world famous Villart Photography, has seen weddings going really hi-tech. His expertise in this genre of photography is simply substantiated by more than 500 applications he receives per annum.

Of these, he chooses a mere 25 clients to give them the memory of their life time. Equipped with a Hasselblad camera and a lens customised for him

by Sony, of which he is the brand ambassador, he has shot nearly 2000 weddings at home and in the abroad. He has established his studio in Washington DC five years ago. He talks of the changing trends in his field.

On changing trends‌ In earlier days weddings were considered a responsibility. But now they have turned into a celebration of sorts. Now the photographers are commissioned by either the bride or groom or their friends. The change is natural and inevitable. It is for us to ensure that we could fall in step with the changing world and we are in the contemporary mood or not.

Choosing criteria‌ Photography is a story, a dairy, a narration and a lasting memory. Hence one has to be absolutely careful while taking the decision on who should be the one to capture those moments of glory. One cannot just go by the ratings of social media or the number of likes (which are often fudged) and decide on who should be recording their wedding. I am not belittling the importance of social media as I owe my own worldwide popularity to it. red | november 2016 | 52

“People must go through a proper demonstration before they choose the photographer. Budget could be a constraint, but it should not be the sole peg. Yes, everything comes with a tag. For example, there are a number of cars that serve your purpose of transport, in fact, pretty much comfortably. Yet people go for high end cars like BMW or Merc.

That only goes to prove that people don’t mind paying for that extra safety and luxury. I tell people to compare me with only the top photographers of the world and decide my price.

On quality...

The quality of the product depends on the equipment and the skill of the photographer. Absence of any one of them affects the product.

On choosing projects...

I cannot say whether I choose my clients or my clients choose me.

I often choose them going by their understanding of the values. I can gauge the calibre and taste of the client by the way he turns the leaves of an album. For example, I have an album which never escapes the eye of the client and often people tell me

that they don’t understand it as it is not just a regular album and it carries a mood. Very few people ask me if I could do that kind of work for them. It is like unraveling the intrigue of a painting. I don’t mind serving people like that.

On client’s expectations...

There are occasions when I was not satisfied with the fare I dished out.

Again there could be umpteen reasons for that dissatisfaction –like location not to my taste, unmatched colour combinations or unsuitable light. Generally, I have a working meeting with all those people who organise stage, lights and other props. Yet things may go awry. It is very difficult follow a set trajectory in our weddings. We may keep the cameras strategically poised to capture the most poignant moments, but we always have to predict the unpredictable. Suddenly the pundit may ask the bride to switch place with the groom or some aunt might change the course of the bride’s walk. I always shoot weddings with two cameras not to miss any vignette.

PACKAGES “Earlier, photo shoot was looked at as ‘not so important part’ in the weddings, for which minimal amount was allocated in the budget.

But today weddings have gone pricier and people are willing to pay a lot more for their memories captured in videos and photographs.”

Our basic package is Rs.1 lakh to Rs.5 lakh where I don’t take part and when I shoot the event cost varies from Rs.5 lakh to Rs.50 lakh.

red | november 2016 | 53

Sai Priya Beach Resorts

RESORT OF SORTS

A

massive glasshouse catches your eye as you enter the premises of the Sai Priya Beach Resorts. Impeccably maintained buildings dotting the well manicured lawns are sure to engage your attention as you tour the spacious green property that borders the glittering sands of Bay of Bengal.

“Sai Priya Beach Resorts is the first ever facility of its kind in Andhra Pradesh. We have 40 well appointed rooms and a fine dining restaurant.

The Bay Retreat (Beverages and Restaurant) is an added attraction.

Several national and international events are being held here. Giving the guests the feel of Vizag, it has all the facilities needed to host corporate events. We had the honour of hosting innumerable events ranging from luxurious and grand marriages to company product launches to corporate seminars”, says Joshi Sravan Kumar Munnangi, Manager, Banquet and Sales.

Bay. We provide the banquet settings, food and decorations,” he adds. The resort boasts of multi-cuisine that includes typical South Indian and North Indian fare, specially crafted for marriages.

Little Goa, the totally covered Beach venue offers platform for parties, picnics and most importantly, for night weddings. It is a completely open venue spread over 5,000 sq. ft with 500-seating capacity.

“Striving to satisfy the customer in every possible way, we provide them with all the facilities through our in-house vendor, who is the one-point contact for sound, light, décor, sitting and stage arrangements. We have two separate rooms for the bride and bride groom. 40-well appointed rooms can accommodate the guests. We have ample parking space that can accommodate 120 cars at a time.

“Our Beach Convention CentreSai Suraj, sprawls over 10,000 sq.ft and can accommodate a whopping 1000 guests. It is the most soughtafter venue for weddings. The hall has a panoramic view of the sea and the guests can enjoy the beauty of the

Why should one choose Sai Priya?

It fits the bill perfectly for those who are looking for sea-side open and indoor destinations. The most attractive part is that we can provide lush green lawns of 25000 sq.ft, for people who prefer to be out of the confines of walls. “We provide everything that the tradition demands like pelli peetalu and other paraphernalia, horse, chariot, pallaki and other requirements.”

Recalling one of the most unique weddings they had hosted, Sravan says that a guest wanted the entire procedures to be based on coconut theme. “We used coconut flower and leaf in every possible way. To start with we served tender coconut water as the welcome drink and served sweets and ice cream in coconut shells. Yet another wedding, which can be dubbed as global, was of a German groom and Indian bride. We had a hoard of thoroughly satisfied German guests returning home with most precious and indelible memories.

Though located away from the madding crowds and din of the city, the facility can be reached in comfortable time and the approach road so scenic that the drive itself uplifts the mind and soul, setting the tone for celebrations.

His special dishes Curd that is set in Krishna zilla style Chekkara Pongali Masala Gare

Cost per plate Veg menu-Rs.250 VIP menu- Rs.400 VVIP menu -Rs.550 red | november 2016 | 54

nearly 3000 wedding guests and has its inhouse vendors- event managers, decorators, wedding planners of high repute, photographers and videographers, who can turn any event, social function, wedding, reception into a unique experience.

The Park Hotel

For Azure

Delight

T

he Park, Visakhapatnam has always been the ideal location for destination weddings. Couples intending to have an “Anything But Ordinary” wedding ceremony, prefer to have it in this location with the Mandap being erected right on the Beach Lawns of the hotel, and the sounds of the waves in the background

adding to the experience. This luxurious property sprawls over 6.5 acres of lush green lawns. It affords a platform from where one can launch their marital journey, providing the right degree of serenity, style and chic that any exclusive event can ask for. The proximity to the lighthouse underlines the romance of the sea. The five-star ambience and facilities are naturally most suited for big fat weddings. Its beautifully manicured gardens, tiled pavilions and a giant chessboard are a treat to the eye.

Its ocean-front space can hold

A FACILITY FOR ALL

Palm Beach Hotel

There are 66 well-appointed sea facing rooms including 4 suites for accommodation requirements.

The hotel is an Urban Beach Resort and also offers recreational facilities like beach volleyball, five-hole golf facility, tennis court, swimming pool gym, and a billiards table in case the wedding guest linger on.

W

ish to have the subtle music of breaking waves as background for your wedding vows? Well there cannot be a better place than the Palm Beach Hotel which is strategically located. The sprawling property provides facilities for weddings of any range. It could be a big fat wedding or a marriage of modest scale- the hotel can accommodate anything.

“We have three halls that can accommodate 350, 120 and 70 guests at a time, besides a board that holds 60,” explains Lalitha Brassett, Banquet Sales Executive. If people want to go for outdoor event, they have a vast area on the ocean frontPrivate Beach (accommodating 1000), Sea Lawn(800) and Coconut Groove (400) that support any outdoor décor.

“Booking a hall along with the open air space is mandatory.

This we insist to meet the contingency of rain,” she adds. The Palm Beach also has a group of inhouse vendors who cater to the needs of the client, if he so chooses. That includes event management, décor, lighting and car decoration - everything that is needed for the smooth conduct of a wedding. The hotel itself takes care of food and beverages. “We provide the wedding party with two rooms for 12 hours. We have 45 well-appointed rooms which can be availed to host the wedding guests,” she adds. red | november 2016 | 55

Revving

up

Revelry

F

or Divya and P.V.S.R.Raju, the managing partners of Arnav Travels it is quite a journey- very eventful and adventurous as they have taken a road, less travelled by people of their ilk, at least in this region. Divya who is a commerce graduate, went through a computer certification courses in NIIT. Raju, a software engineer, worked in the US for six years. Right now the couple is running Arnav Translines in Hyderabad, Arnav Travels in Vizag and a franchise Arnav Cabz in Vijayawada. The couple talks how they have negotiated the turns of transport world.

Jump Start I returned from the US for good in 2002 and went for an interview to a software company in Hyderabad, said Raju . As providence would have it, one person came to me and suggested, “Why don’t you become an entrepreneur, instead of seeking employment? Software firms are looking for good transporters these days and that is one area you can explore.” I liked the idea and studied the project report and even bagged an order from the GE. However, the first company I served was Dr. Reddy’s.

That gave me a great opportunity and exposure. As it is a vast company with its tentacles spread all over the world, it has people coming from every nook and corner. Fortunately, we could meet the high parameters set by them and got into the niche area of handling of their foreign clients. That set the ball, rather our wheels of success rolling.

Road Bumps We faced many hurdles initially in training the chauffeurs as they are

uneducated and not very disciplined.

Many expected we would shut the shop once Ola and Uber launched their services, but we took it as a challenge and spread our wings into unexplored areas- supplying high end cars for destination weddings and customised services. There after it was all smooth.

organising an event of any kind and magnitude. We have as many as 35 vehicles in our Vizag fleet- They include Toyotas, Etios, Desirez, Honda City, Mercedes Benz, BMW, SUVs- Fortune and MU7. We have coaches with different capacities and to ferry12, 15, 19, 26, 32 and 40 people.

Destinations The recent Kalamandir opening and the one-day match between India and New Zealand are just a two to name. We were required to organise 85 buses for the Reliance Foundation in a very short span of time. It was a huge success and we received immense appreciation from them.

Special Features We have GPS tracking system and provide the customer with the link so that he can keep track of the vehicles’ movement. The passengers are supplied with mineral water, dailies and magazines. Some people want diet cola and cookies and we customise the service to meet the demands of the customers. Our chauffeurs are uniformed and well groomed.

Load Capacity We can provide everything from high end service to a fleet of luxury coaches and executive transporters to move the guests from hotels to the wedding and reception venues. Our experience in planning and carrying out the varied transportation needs for weddings and special events comes handy in

Road ahead Vizag has become popular for the destination for weddings. People come from West Bengal and Orissa to hold events. We do see a lot of potential in this sector.

Handing Down Beauty Gone are the days when the bride would sit with her hand stretched in front of an indulging aunt or over-worked mother to get her mehandi done. The present generation brides have simply wiped their hands off those old traditions and go for unique patterns that transgress the boundaries of palm and extend up to the elbow and perhaps even further in some cases. Following the winds of the change, many have plunged into the business, offering their services as the mehandi artists.

Out of them, we chose Lalitha of Modern Mehandi, who excels not only in enhancing the beauty of the bride’s hands with mehandi and nail art, but also in pepping up the looks of the paraphernalia that goes with the wedding s. She knows the new fads like the back of her hand

and speaks of them.

Creative Designs...

My hand automatically sketches the design the moment I put the cone on the hand. It is that spontaneous. I don’t start a design having a set pattern in my mind. Even while guiding my assistants, I never start with a set pattern.

Procedure I get mehandi powder from Kolkata and add mehandi oil, eucalyptus oil or clove oil to get the gloss and a bright hue.

Present trends hough the present trends are quite mixed, there is a shift towards thematic mehandi.

Preferring less traditional Indian designs, brides these days favour a fusion of Arabic and Indian styles.For example they want Arab style mehandi which gives scope for adequate relief between the motifs. Indian patterns are very intricate and use peacocks and geometric designs. They are so closely drawn that the hand looks as if it is in a laced glove. The Arabic style is more floral and can be less intricate. A lot of brides ask for designs that are more floral and spaced out.

Inputs from clients My clients leave the decision to me and trust me. The nice words they utter and the messages my clients send me are my real rewards.

Money Matters It is very seasonal. A two-month hectic activity may be followed by a month of lull.

Contact: 9160065371

Getting elected among one lakh contestants is certainly an achievement worth raving about. Yet Swarup Varma, more popular as Mr.King, refuses to sing his praises and says ‘let my art speak, not me’.

He is elected as the No.1 DJ (Chillout) in the country in 2016 by the My Fav DJs. Starting his career nearly a decade ago, he has played for some of the amazing venues and international festivals. Provider of high quality underground music - Swarup karma- he belts out hip-hop, old skool, besides a pitch of retros.

Running ‘Future Sounds of Vizag’, first institute of its kind, he holds classes that teach Djing and production. Soon he is coming up with a unique festival that will showcase all the genres. Here he talks of Djing at weddings.

“As Swarup, I have been playing Underground. I realised that I can serve any vibe and entertain varied

n a

Note of

audience, that was when Mr.King came into picture as an Open format DJ for Weddings.”

Swaroop, who performed for many weddings in India and abroad.

Effort For a weekend session itself I download 50 GB per month, filter it down to 5 GB (1,000 songs) and finally, end up mixing 300 songs.

It is a different ball game when it comes to weddings.

Themes Recently in a Bangkok wedding that took place in a yacht, the client wanted cheesy Bollywood

numbers. Since the couple are 35 plus, I gave them the retro theme.

Selection I generally use the most popular numbers both in English and Hindi. I am a huge fan of R.D. Burman and Kishore Kumar. There are times when they want to go for a flash mob to surprise the bride and groom. Telugu numbers are also included.

Vizag scene Vizag has evolved in the past three years and people are digging good music.

movers shakers The Trek to the Stage This genre is challenging as most of the time you are dealing with people with two left legs. We take their limitations into consideration and work our way around it. For the bridal couple it has to be more elegant, trendy and romantic. Taking the inputs from the family, we select songs and then choreograph it.

Wedding choreography is emerging as a lucrative profession. Aayushi Jain, HRD degree-holder and Sharat Pirates, an engineer teach jazz, hip hop, Latin, Bollywood and even retro. ‘Spreading happiness’- is what they call it. They run home and studio classes.

They tell us what they do to put up those uber-cool wedding shows.

Backstage Basically, practice for 10 to 15 days with 2 to 3-hour session per day is needed. We sometimes take our crew of 20 dancers to perform.

Trend It is like a fast food centre, where one comes for quick service.

Theme Themes are narrations (how the girl met the boy), Disco, Bollywood and Retro to name a few. Sometime it is

based on the attire like- Mughal theme. Most of the time we bank on Bollywood songs.But of late, Tollywood songs too are being preferred, even in north Indian weddings.

Big Fat Weddings Anands of Presidential School, Hirawats, Vaibhav and Nivetias are a few to quote in recent times.

Unique Experience At Anands’ wedding, suddenly Kirtana of Vaibhav and20 of her friends took the stage by storm and started dancing. Though we were taken aback,we quickly picked up the beat and fell in step with them. Of course, something like this is always fun. It is all fair in war and ‘weddings’. Isn’t it?

sharat.pirates@facebook.com sharat.pirates@zumba.com Aayushijain@facebook.com Instagram@aayushijain

seasoned caterer

I

f one is planning a huge wedding and is considering hiring a caterer who can dish out traditional Andhra delicacies, besides the other cuisines, one need not look beyond Ayappa Caterers in the region.

The proprietor of Ayaapa Catering and Omega Events is Bezawada Sai Babu. The innumerable food connoisseurs, including celebrities, literally and figuratively eating out of his hands tell us what he serves and why he is one of the best wedding caterers in the region. But here we record what he says about his business.

What prompted you to become a caterer?

Perhaps, it runs in my genes. We hail from Vijayawada and my maternal grandfather was a cook by profession. However, my father, not involving himself in cooking, set up his own catering unit - Ramakrishna Suppliers in 1980.

Why did you come to Vizag?

It was at the behest of Sri Kattineni Jagnamohan Rao of the erstwhile Apsara Hotel, we came here. Finding the region lacking an orgsnised catering sector, we set up our business here in 1987.

How was the journey?

We had a good head start with the Tippala family engaging us to cater food in all its events.

It was again NTR, who gave us a very significant order. He was shooting for Viswamitra (Hindi) in Araku.

Biggest events you catered for...

Very recently we catered for Mr.Kala Venkata Rao’s son’s wedding. We could serve whopping one lakh guests and without a single hitch or glitch. Out of the innumerable weddings we catered to, I can cite the weddings celebrated by Mr.M.V.V.S. Murthi and Mr.Alla Ramachandra Rao.

red | november 2016 | 60

Other services you provide...

We offer venue decorations.

We can erect iron pipe pandals with waterproof covers. We are equipped with Rs.5 crore worth paraphernalia, housed in nine godowns.

What are the new trends you observe in your field?

The intercontinental fare is a passé. People nowadays prefer a sit down meal (Banti) and want to be served food like in the olden days. Traditional dishes like gutti vankaya are replacing the western items like mushrooms.

Biggest challenge...

Once we were given an order to supply food for 10,000 people but we were faced with incredible 20,000 people lining up for food. By God’s grace none of the guests went back hungry.

His special dishes

Cost per plate

Curd that is set in Krishna zilla style Chekkara Pongali (desert) Masala Gare (Fritters)

Veg menu-Rs.250 VIP menu- Rs.400 VVIP menu -Rs.550

Keep the away from

Technology

By Lachmi Deb Roy

w

hen we try to make sense out of the various issues kids face these days, it is only natural we take a trip down memory lane. Children in the past made their own games, played outside, climbed trees and made sand castles. Those were the days when we used to tuck ourselves inside a blanket on a cold winter night with a book and drifted into the land of fairies and imps. For today’s kids toys and books have become passé. Cell phones, laptops and iPad have become the craze. ‘Hide-n-seek’ and ‘seven stones’ have become obsolete in a world where kids devoid of play station are deemed as an alien. SMS language too has become a nightmare for the school teachers. Technology's impact is fracturing the very foundation of the 21st Century family and causing a disintegration of core values. Child obesity and diabetes are now national epidemics. It is important that parents should encourage their kids to read and play outdoors or board games more often to take them out of the screen time.

red | november 2016 | 62

OR’S CAL T C L DO Dr. Rajni Mukherjee, Pediatrcian, Harmful effects of technology

T

echnology is interfering with a child’s development. Kids today don’t learn to speak because there is a lack of stimulation.

Children in the past played a lot and read a lot and their sensory world was nature-based and simple. In the past, the dining table was the centre place where families came together to eat and talk about their day. Now kids are left with mobiles. So their psycho-social and socioemotional milestone gets affected. The impact of technology is leading to an increase of physical, psychological and behaviour disorders.

How parents can help Parent’s involvement is the most important thing. They alone can stimulate the child’s growing mind. They should satisfy their curiosity with patience. Parenting is a full time job. It is never ending, challenging, exhausting and at the same time exhilarating and rewarding.

How schools can help Schools are now emphasizing more on rote learning like mugging up lessons. Most of them have no playgrounds where the kids can run around. Some schools don’t even have annual day celebrations and the only emphasis they give is on academics. Schools should have more club activities which bring To start with, a mother when she out the hidden talents in children. is breast feeding her child, should There should be more play time maintain eye contact. Singing for kids because that helps in lullabies, reading out stories and developing team spirit, reciting rhymes are excellent leadership, self-control, sense of ways to talk to your infant and integrity, bonding and helps them toddler. Today’s families set ups develop organising skills. are different. Now conversations Influence of Social Media are replaced with big screens or Social media has become an games on the mobiles or ipads. important part of everybody’s life.

Dining room conversation, bed Parents should be open about time stories, field trips like going the whole idea and should be in to the zoo or a walk in the park, know of what their kids are board games like scrabbles and posting on social media. They monopoly are the simple things should be made to understand that parents can do to help their what is wrong and what is right. kids to stay away from There is no hard and fast rule in technology. parenting. They should be there

to guide them in the right direction. Parents need to encourage their kids to make real friends and not virtual ones. There are plenty of good things about technology, but the kids should know how to use it in the right way. Social media does help people in staying connected with friends and family and helps both the children and adults in enhancing their creativity through sharing of ideas, music and art. On ipside it is also a hub for cyber bullying.

Developing hobbies Hobbies are important for kid’s growth and development. Children, who grow with productive hobbies, can perform well. It is very important to introduce good hobbies in the children right from the time they develop their brain. Hobbies help in developing social, academic and moral values.

They act like catalysts that can fuel mental and physical growth. It is only through hobbies that we can help kids to unearth their creativity and talent.

Reading books, music, matchbox collecting, coin and picture postcards collecting and photography are the activities should be encouraged in kids.

Writing travelogue is another brilliant hobby which needs to be encouraged. When you see other cultures, you imbibe the positives of that culture.

They should also learn to spend some time with themselves. This helps them to touch their inner self and be at peace with one self. red | november 2016 | 63

s r e h Teac Take Shubha Dalai, Principal, Ralla Bella International School

Keeping kids away from technology Engage the kids with diverse experiences to stimulate their brain cells in all areas of development. Surround your kids with people instead of gadgets like grandparents and other kids with whom they can play. Involve them in more drawing, gardening, music, painting and also cooking and baking. Good hobbies can work like magic on children and develop their personality as a whole. Academic experts believe that hobbies can help children with a series of benefits like developing patience, learning how to manage lifeboth personal and professional, will power, and concentration.

organise a lot of fun-filled programmes for every occasion, be it important days like Father's Day or Mother’s Day or festivals like Holi. The school is decorated according to the theme and students stage performances and they are given certificates and prizes for those who excel. This acts as an encouragement. We also take the students out for educational field trips: to post office, aquarium, zoo or museums. We invite professionals from various fields to come share their knowledge with the students.

We give sports a lot of importance and that is why we have specially trained professionals training our students.

Activities conducted in your school Apart from academics, we train kids in yoga, art, zumba, foreign languages and games. For these activities, skilled professionals are employed. We

Workshops for kids and parents Workshops for kids are conducted once a week in one of the subjects they study. We hold workshops for parents to give them tips on parenting; on how to handle the behavioural and on healthy diet. Teachers,

red | november 2016 | 64

like parents, play a very important role in a kid’s development. In fact, research shows that an inspiring and informed teacher is the most important school-related factor influencing student achievement. Hence it is critical to pay close attention to how we train and support both new and experienced educators on regular basis.

Importance of play time Playing whether competitive sport or a hobby game, is an important part in motor development skills and eye hand coordination. Besides intellectual development, you also find children who play a sport more disciplined, focused and they have a sense of drive. So it is important to inculcate this habit of playing. Play is important for the child to acquire a healthy brain. The age of two to three years is the blooming phase where the intelligence is almost doubled by doubling of number of synapses and creation of new neurons.

Between three to eight years of age is the PRUNING phase: there are 12 areas of development of brain and academics are just one area. At this age in a kid’s life neurons and synapses related to unused ‘areas of development’ are eliminated bringing down the overall performance of brain. Play makes optimum use of all areas stimulating almost all kinds of neurons and prevents pruning.

Expert Opinion

Poonam Shah Srinath, Founder & Correspondent at Teeny Boppers Playschool & Kindergarten talks about ways to keep children away from technology.

For healthy growth of children, it is a must to limit technology usage.

We recommend that children under seven years of age should be strictly kept away from technology because the essential development of the child takes place during these crucial years.

Unprecedented TV and gadget exposure makes the brain expect constant input change. This results in attentional changes in later life.

Over stimulating the brain is bad.

Children do not act normally because of it. Real time play develops the brain normally.

Ways to keep the children engaged without technology *

Reading books

*

Free outdoor play for at least 2 hours a day

*

Learning music or playing an instrument

*

Doing loads of freehand painting or drawing

*

Imaginative play

*

Sewing, knitting or cooking is another way of occupying children

*

Freedom of exploring arts and craft

*

Visiting places of interest like museum, historical places, beach, hills, camping, trekking etc.

*

Lots of play with natural things like sand, mud, rain, twigs, leaves, climbing trees.

All the activities mentioned will help develop their bodies. Music, reading and playing with natural material will help promote creativity, imagination and influential abilities.

Outdoor play develops fit bodies and helps in physical, social and emotional skills. Playing together teaches cooperation with one another.

Risky play teaches children to take risks and also teaches them to cope with emergency situation. Children who indulge in the above activities are the happiest, brightest, resilient, cooperative & well-adjusted which helps them grow to be successful adults.

Contact: 0891-2528864

Kids Who Play More Do Well In Life Playing outside and going on sightseeing trips can boost the chances of children succeeding in the classroom, a new report revealed.

Children who spend more time in less structured activities- from playing outside to going on a trek and reading books and visiting the zoo are better off in setting their goals and are much more organised as compared to the kids who are glued to the screen.

Sometimes it is advisable to keep kids away from structured activities. Less structured activities can include free red | november 2016 | 66

play alone and with others, social outings, playing in the park by just running around with friends and singing a song to one self. Routine activities can dampen a child’s ability to think freely. Every child needs that playtime in which he can let loose his imagination. Sports help kids to grasp concepts better. Unscheduled and unsupervised play time is what parents can gift to children to make them independent. Children who play have better attention spans as they learn to multitask.

Kids who play more have better social skills. It is on the playground that children strengthen social bonds and build emotional maturity. Playing involves interaction with their peers.

Those who play with others have a big circle of friends and have better social skills. They are adaptable; learn to make their own decisions and solve their problems. They learn to fight for themselves early in life. Unstructured activities are important since they give right direction to it earlier in life.

Leisure Classes Shyla Kurma, Director of Ashvatha, says story telling is a fun way to keep kids away from technology.

‘Ashvattha- People Skills Training....Redefined’ has been teaching children and adults in the art of storytelling since 2010. It helps in building confidence, learning voice modulation and adopting the right body language. In short, it helps children to be good speakers. The organization conducts book reading sessions too.

Storytelling has been around since the speaking began. Take the Panchatantra- they were a series of stories told by the guru to the young princes about good governance and the art of warfare. I remember

growing up with the stories by Aesop Fables. They taught us morals of life.

Storytelling is an art where the teller connects with the audience and takes them to his world through his voice, rhythm, expressions and body language creating the suspense with the pause. So, young parents can do a lot with their little ones through stories rather than getting them a video game or putting them in front of the TV. India is rich in folktales we need not go too far to find stories.

Storytelling helps develop listening skills, a skill nearly forgotten. It helps get children into the habit of reading.

Our book reading activity is getting children interested in books.

Technology has changed all this for children, though I see the good it has for them. The difference between watching a movie and reading a book is immense. A movie brings out the creativity of the movie-maker but not of the viewer. It leaves no imagination to the viewer.

Reading can transport the

reader to another world. It takes one into the writer’s imagination. It calms people whereas movies only agitate them.

There are many books available for children of different age groups. Lady Bird series is great. My favourite are Enid Blyton, Roald Dahl, Ruskin Bond, Rudyard Kipling, to name a few. It is important that parents should get children to read short stories and see them grow into avid readers.

Contact: 9866966681 / 8008166681

Arty Talks can do simple activities such as crumpling up paper and calling it a ‘ball.’ Students can use descriptive words to discuss their own creations or to talk about what feelings are elicited when they see different styles of artwork.

V.V.Ramana, art teacher, Oakridge International School talks about how art helps in the positive development of kids.

Art helps in language development and motor skills, such as holding a paint brush, scribbling with crayons, teasing their imagination, identifying shapes and colours. When toddlers are as young as a year-old, parents red | november 2016 | 68

Art also helps children in developing eye-hand coordination.

It helps in decision making. Children feel a sense of emotional satisfaction when they are involved in art works, whether they are modeling with clay, drawing with crayons or making a collage with recycled

scraps. Deciding what they make and what materials they use may be the first opportunity children have to make independent choices and decisions. Art helps kids to think creatively. They learn to observe, describe, analyse and interpret.

Fostering creativity through the medium of painting and drawing won’t just increase their chances of becoming the next Picasso, but will certainly help in emotionally. It also helps them develop

their social skills and a sense of innovation. It helps children in their thinking process and helps them perform better in their academic fields.

Contact: 9705296146

Sangitaa Sehgall, who conducts theatre classes for children talks about how theatre can help children in their over all development.

I have seen dramatic transformations happening in the children’s personalities after attending the theatre classes. This intensive programme helps them to hone their communicative skills like intonation, pronunciation, voice, confidence and so on. Stage fear drops away effortlessly.

They learn leadership skills and they learn to be creative. They learn the art of working as a team.

Theatre breaks the barriers, I look forward to the day when parents will participate with their children in workshops and share

A play child's creative and fun times with them. The bonding that happens in these classes is absolutely phenomenal.

We now have to deal with some of the inevitable and undesirable outcomes of technology. Imagination and creativity have taken a blow and this has far reaching consequences. Playing with other children, reading, spending unstructured, learning new crafts/skills at their own pace and out of genuine interest is on the wane. Parents should work at maintaining a happy atmosphere at home and do lots of fun activities like going out on picnics, exploring surrounding areas, playing word games etc. Age appropriate exposure to technology that is monitored and time bound is okay.

Reading helps a child to develop its imagination. It is important for parents to introduce age appropriate literature. Children

Royal, music teacher at YMCA talks about how music can bind kids.

Music acts as an excellent mood lifter not only for adults, but also for kids.

Sound of Music

If you want to give your child mental advantage, music is the best way to do it. They often try to mimic sounds and dance to the music as soon as they learn to walk.

This also helps them to pick words faster. It is a medically proven fact that music can improve a child’s learning ability and memory.

Toddlers love to dance to the sounds of music. The repetition of songs encourages the child to improve his/her stock of words and in memorization.

develop vocabulary; learn essential life skills and problem-solving abilities.

Discussions books could be an activity that is educative and it brings about tremendous bonding.

Theatre requires one to drop all fear and inhibitions and face the audience confidently. A person has to work a lot on oneself to be able to do that. Actors need to speak with clarity, so diction has to be worked upon. Communicative skills and voice skills need to be honed.

Contact: 9969078490

Music helps in a child’s social development. Kids who are involved in musical groups or ensemble learn important life skills, such as how to relate to others, the skills of developing good team spirit and development of leadership skills.

They are disciplined from a young age and hence this helps them during their adulthood. In today’s world it is all about instant gratification, but music teaches you to be patient and when you are going for a class, you learn to wait for your turn.

It is a great way to

connect with your inner self.

Children these days are suffering from depression and they are spending too much time in front of computers and playing video games on their mobiles and Ipads. So music comes as a great way to unwind and think and act creatively.

Contact: 9553855100

red | november 2016 | 69

Grand Affair

The wedding of the niece of Mr.Ch.Vamsi Krishna Srinivas, YSRCP leader, Madhavi, (daughter of Mr. Chennuboyina Malyadri & Mrs.Ramanamma), was a grand affair. Mr.Venkateswara Rao, son of Mr.Gompa Appala Swami and Mrs.Revathi was the lucky groom. The food was lavish and the guests were given a red carpet welcome. The decoration was done up tastefully and the entire function was well planned and beautifully executed. Prominent among the guests were Dr.T.Subbarami Reddy, Mr.T. Gurumurthy Reddy, Mr.Palla Srinivas, Mr.Ganna Babu Mr.M.V.Ramana and Mrs.G.Sarada, Mr.Balaraju. Mr.and Mrs.Ch.Mala Kondayya and Mr.and Mrs.Ch.Ramanayya played perfect hosts.

BIG FAT PUNJABI WEDDING Leading educationists Mrs.Ishween Kaur (Tina) and Mr.D.S.Anand (Nove) recreated Punjab in all its hues and glory to the city, organising a dream wedding for their son Gurvansh. The week-long celebrations were replete with a judicious mix of traditional and contemporary events. The crème de la crème of the region besides celebrities from outside, made a beeline to the venue take part in the protracted revelry. Bride Hansikaa, daughter of Mrs.Raminder Kaur and Mr.Mandeep Singh Chadha from Ludhiana, looked resplendent in pink bridal finery on the wedding day, complementing the handsome groom who adorned cream shervani. Anands were applauded for their impeccable planning and flawless execution of the events, woven round the auspicious occasion.

They commissioned ace beautician Gurpreet Ghura for bridal make-up and celebrity Dj Aman Singh Nagpal from Mumbai, raising the bar of perfection. While Singer Preeti Bhalla kept the evening rocking, Sarat, the Choreographer kept the guests grooving till the wee hours. A special band, brought from Punjab, set the mood in all the functions. The near and dear of both the families rocked the event with special performances.

VIZAG Confectioners Air Conditioners Ramcor Enterprises Pvt Ltd/ Cool Concepts Authorized Sales & Service Dealers for Air Conditioners (Voltas/ Daikin/ Panasonic/ Llyod/ Samsung/ Mitsubishi/ Water Coolers/ Deep Freezers/ Bottle Coolers and Celfrost Appliances) #12-1-18, Waltair Main Road, Beside Hotel Green Park Vizag - 2.

M : 9848778771 / 9848778775 / 9848778681 / 9912796400 / T : 0891 - 2706825 / 2706037 E-mail : repvsp1@gmail.com Branch Off : Fort Gate, Rajamundry T : 0883 - 2476360 Apparel Kankatala Textiles Pvt. Ltd. VSquare Mall, Dwarakanagar, Visakhapatnam - 530 016.

T: 0891 6633336 Panache By The Raymond Shop D.No: 30-15-163, Ground Floor, E.J.Periera Manor, Dabagardens, Visakhapatnam - 530020, T: 0891-6536666, Siripuram Fort,Waltair Uplands Road, VSP-530013 T: 0891-6532666 (Sri Vamsi Textiles Pvt Ltd) Sarees/ Salwars/ Chudidhars/ ladies western wear/ Gents Readymades/ Suiting & Shirting/ Ethnicwear/ Kidswear/Furnishings & Customised tailoring(Gents,Ladies,& Curtain making). #30-15-136, Lorven Plaza, Dabagardens, Visakhapatnam-530020 T:0891 6698888 E:sri_vamsi90@yahoo.com/ W: www.srivamsi.com Architecture Project Inc Architecture, Interiors, Landscape 101, Venu Regency Plaza, Beside Raghavendra Swamy Temple, Ramnagar, Vizag - 530 002. T: 0891 2568228, 9550036999 E: projectinc@ymail.com www.projectinc.in Beauty Cute’s # 12-4-29, Opp. Vaartha, Jagadamba Jn. Vizag - 3 T: 08916539485, Radhika/ Bhavani: 9866051649 SS Orianna Beauty Studio & Training Centre Sree & Radhika Saree Polishers #50-121-68/2, B.S Layout, Seethammadhara, Visakhapatnam, AP530013. M : 9494712020, 9059009977 www.orianna.webs.com / orianna.vizag@gmail.com Boutique Aarna #7-19-2, Kirlampudi Layout, Behind Syndicate Bank, Chinna Waltair, Vizag. T: 0891-2549999 One Stop Family Store

Blossoms - Exclusive Boutique for women Near Sampath Vinayaka Temple, CBM Compound, Visakhapatnam M: 9985334444, 9966682222 Sahasra Bridal Boutique - Exclusively for her Shop no. T-8, 3rd Floor, The Landmark Complex, Opp. Kalyan Jewellers, Near. Sampath Vinayaka Temple, Vizag-530003 0891-6662899, 9848799000 E-mail : sahasravizag@gmail.com / www.sahasraboutique.com Cell Shops Mobi Care Professional mobile phone service & training centre, Opp. Woodland showroom, 1st floor, Daba Gardens, Visakhapatnam - 530 020 T: 0891 6468887 Shop No.34, 4th Floor, CMR Central, Maddilapalem,Vizag Ph: 0891-656 8887 Shop No 1, Venu Regency, Waltair Main Road, Ram Nagar, Beside Sri Raghavendra Swamy Temple Visakhapatnam - 530002.

T: 0891-3291234.

Bakers Castle - Fresh Touch Ice Castle - Cold Touch Prasanna Foods: Siripuram Towers, Opp. HSBC, Next to Lee & Arrow, Siripuram, Visakhapatnam - 530 002.

T: 0891 2578889, 0891 6690989 M: 9000008889 Event Managers & Wedding Planners

Razzle Weddings- South India's Senior Most Events team Winners of the BUSINESS LEADER AWARD 2015, Razzmatazz is a 22 year old senior team of dynamic professionals with PAN INDIA presence who add extra value to simple and complex events. Call us for any/all of the following: Corporate events /Award ceremonies /Conferences & outbound events /Product launches & branding events / Exhibition services, stall design & fabrications / Thematic Events, birthdays & weddings/social events / HR events & initiatives / Corporate Dealer meets & parties / Team building & Family days / Executive retreats & Incentive programmes / Entertainment of all types / Internationals artists / Models & celebrity artists / Audio-visuals (branded) / Stages, backdrops and production sets / Protocol events with VIP dignitaries / Anchoring & hostess services / our NGO Rohit Memorial Trust/Facebook Creativity & best services at competitive rates ...call 9052024650/ 9848191866/08912551226. Mail to razzmeenakshi@gmail.com, Visit www.razzmatazz.in Visit us on Facebook/Twitter.

Sugandhikaa Theme Party Decorator's, Corporate Events, Wedding Planning, Birthday parties, Flower Boutiques, Wedding and Gift packing. #54-12-8/2, Sai Dharshan, Maddilapalem, Near Krishna College, Vizag- 530003. M: 9440731765, E: alkajaju@hotmail.com V-team Events & Hyper Fruits.

Theme Decor, Sets, Entertainment, Mehendi, Sangeeth, "A-Z" for any event. We are experts in Corporate Events, Weddings, Birthdays, Political, Brand launches, Imported Fruits, Chocolates baskets, FM, Theatre, TV Ad's YOU NAME IT WE DO IT M: 9348143927. E: veerumama9@gmail.com, veerumaama Gifts & Handicrafts Eastern Art Museum #10-1-9/1, Waltair Uplands, Sampath Vinayak Temple Road, Visakhapatnam - 530 003. T: 0891 6647880 F: 0891 2562775 E: easternartmuseum@gmail.com F: eastern art museum Health & Fitness Deepa’s Total Fitness Add life premises, 1st floor, pandurangapuram Temple Road, Opp. Office Club, Vizag. T: 9885674016 Green Valley (IRCA) (Specialised REHAB Center for Alchohol and Drug Abuse) T: 0891-2781966, 9247251126, 9848065643.

E-mail: addictionfreelife.@gmail.com Website: addictionfreelife.org Green Valley Foundation.

Hotels Hotel Green Park Waltair Main Road, Visakhapatnam - 530 001. Ph: 0891 6615151 Hotel Meghalaya Dr. No. 10-4-15, Ramnagar, Asilmetta Junction, Visakhapatnam T: 0891 2755141 / 145 Novotel Beach Road, Vizag T: 1860 500 2020, +91 891 2822 222 The Palm Beach Nr. RK Beach, Waltair Uplands, Beach Road, Visakhapatnam T: 0891 2754026 / 27 The Dasapalla Suryabagh, Visakhapatnam. T: 0891 25564825 / 2563141 The Park Beach Road Visakhapatnam. T: 0891- 3045678

For more details/enquiry fell free to call

Interior Design Studio - Interior designers & consultants C2, Aakruthi, 10-1-9, Waltair uplands, Visakhapatnam - 530 003.

T: 0891 2561586 F: eastern art museum E: designstudio2000@hotmail.com, www.designstudiointeriors.in Project Inc Architecture, Interiors, Landscape 101, Venu Regency Plaza, Beside Raghavendra Swamy Temple, Ramnagar, Vizag - 530 002. T: 0891 2568228, 9550036999 E: projectinc@ymail.com www.projectinc.in International Couriers Sampath Vinayaka Express Services 47-10-37, Ratnadham Arcade, Dondaparthi Road, Near Diamond Park, Visakahapatnam - 530016 T: 0891-6636285, 6536880, M: 9291901303, BRANCH: #16-2-742/F/1/8 Band Amrutha Nilayam, SBH Colony, Asmangadh, Malakpet, HYD M: 9291901305 T:040-65344466 E: krishna_kod@yahoo.co.uk Jewellery MVS. Jewel Park Ramatalkies Road, Vizag - 530 003. T: 0891 2509591/92/93 Lingerie (Flames) - we cover your bare essentials Main Store: #Opp. HDFC Bank, Dabagardens, Vizag-20.

Branch: #Opp. SBI, Sector-1, Venkojipalem Rd, MVP-Colony, Vizag-17.

We are also: @ Kankatala - V'square & Gajuwaka.

T: 0891-6644455 | 2570707 | M: 9295703919 | E-mail: flameslingerie@yahoo.co.in flamesvizag Building Materials Archean Granites & Italian Marbles #52-4-6, Resapuvanipalem, Beside CMR Central, Visakhapatam - 530 013. T: 0891 2753188, 9440190226 H.O: 3-80, S.No. 52 & 53, Rama Gardens, NH-5, Yendada Vizag - 530 045. T: 0891-2782035, E: raju_archean@yahoo.co.in LA CERAMICA Multi brand Ceramic Tiles & Sanitaryware Premium Store Vitrified Tiles / Wall Tiles / Composite Marble / Aluminum Panel Sheet / Glass Fittings #54-11-32/3, Behind SBI, Krishna College Road, Gazetted Officers Colony, Isukathota, Visakhapatnam - 530022 Ph: 0891-2797396, 8106566922, E: info.laceramica@gmail.com Mattresses Agarwal Home Comforts #48-18-75,Near Rama Talkies, Bullaya College Road, Vizag - 530 013. T: 0891 6637111, 9849577711 E: thevizag@gmail.com www.agarwalcomforts.com Modular Kitchens AN Interiors & Modular Kitchens Suppliers High Quality Modular Kitchens & Wardrobes Dealers for: Hettich, EBCo, KAFF, FRANKE Showroom No. 2-8-1, Opp. MVP Public School, Sector-9, MVP Colony, Vizag-17. T: 7396040172 / 9492258470. www.aninteriors.in E: aninteriors9@gmail.com PR agency

Ample Reach Corporate Communications one of the fastestgrowing, full-service public relations agencies in India, based in Andhra Pradesh and T.State is a Public Relation Agency / Consultancy with direct presence and an ample pan-India reach through an associate network which offers entire Public and Media Relations and image management to companies from across the sectors.

M: +91 9542976567 | what’s app: +91 89782 66789 Email: amplereachinfo@gmail.com Web:www.amplereach.in www.facebook.com/amplereach School Artist Factory - Dream School Acting / Dance / Modeling We had branches @ Hyderabad, Tirupati with fully equipped infrastructure like A/C and wifi campuses. #49-7-13/3, LalithaGudi Road, Lalitha Nagar, Akkayapalem, Visakhapatnam-530016. T: 0891-2506789, M: 9885425191 E: artistefactory@gmail.com W: www.artistfactory.com artistfactoryvizag Teeny Boppers Play School & Kindergarten #7-8-14, Repose, Harbour Park Road, Waltair Uplands, Vizag, A.P - 530003.Tel: 0891-2528864, 09849075129 E: poonamsrinath@yahoo.com Ralla Bella International School Campus - 1 #6-22-4, Opp. Defence Flats, East Point Colony, Visakhapatnam - 17,Tel: 0891-2522177 Campus - 2 #1-56-4, Sector - 1 MVP Colony, Venkojipalem Road, Opp, SBI, Visakhapatnam - 17, Tel: 0891- 2521177 E: principal.rallabella@gmail.com / www.rallabella.com Saloon Abhay Spikes The Men's Salon #24, Vuda Complex, Opp. Gurajada Kalashetram, Siripuram, Vizag - 530 001. T: 9885027449, 0891-2727449 Avenue - Hair & Beauty Haritha Arcade # 10-50-54/1, Opp Lions Club, Waltair Main Road, Ramnagar, Vizag- 530002 T: 0891-2520666, E: avenuehairandbeauty@gmail.com www.avenuehairandbeauty.in Avenue Hair & Beauty Jawed Habib Hair & Beauty Ltd. For Men & Women #9-14-5, Praveen Plaza, VIP Road, Siripuram, Vizag - 530 003.

T: 0891-2521142, 6667288, 8106788000 #58-14-51, Journalist Colony, Marripalem, Vizag - 530 009.

T:0891-2780082 / 83 Well Groom - The Saloon Beauty Clinic for Men Special packages for grooms Hair coloring, highlights, straightening, Warts removing Shop No: 4, Nr. HSBC, VUDA Complex, Siripuram, Vizag.

T: 0891-6649488, 9849873999, www.wellgroom.in

Tours & Travels Arnav Travels (For Luxury/Premium cars) AN ISO 9001:2008 Certified Company T: 9849792203, 9949332203, E: raju@arnavtravels.com www.arnavtravels.com Web Design Colour Moon Technologies Pvt. Ltd., Website: www.thecolourmoon.com Email: info@thecolourmoon.com Mobile: 9885281291, 9676600666 Beauty Services

Krasna Professional Salon Service at the comfort of your home for Men and Women.

To book an appointment 1800 3000 4848 (toll free) www.krasna.in Download app on Android & iOS.

Vizag, get ready high life at the foot steps of ITSEZ,

Madhurawada

The

Crew

Sr. Feature Writer Anahita Ahuja

Asst. Editor Lachmi Deb Roy

Editor-in-Chief V.Sarada

Executive Director T.V.Vijaya Kumari

Publisher Chandra Mouli Tippala

Sr. Executives - Subscription & Sales P.Arjun

Asst. Manager - Marketing V.Sahiti

Asst. Manager - Advertising B.V.S.Appa Rao K.Niranjan Jagadeeswara Reddy D.V.S.N.Murthy

Dy. Manager - Circulation Faheem Siddiqui

Dy. General Manager - Corporate Affairs Selvaraj Dominic

Publication Consultant K Raghuram Raju

Accounts & Admin.

R Chaitanya Kumar

Sr. Photographers Dhana Vijay Dinakar Pamu Visualizer K.Shankar Image Processing P.Venkatesh

Printed, Published and Owned by Chandra Mouli Tippala.

Printed at Kalajyothi Process Pvt. Ltd., 1-1-60/5, RTC X Roads Hyderabad - 500 020. Published at Red Publications D. No. 14-36-9, Vikas Nagar, Pedagantyada, Gajuwaka, Dist. Visakhapatnam, AP. Editor: Tippala Divya Reddy.

General Manager - Corporate Affairs Rajesh Babu Guntu

Design Strategy

red | november 2016 | 80

W W W . R E D M A G A Z I N E . I N

FOR SUBSCRIPTIONS: Vizag: 88854 88854 Hyderabad: 8897 626262

Capture this QR code using code reader app on your mobile

FOR ADVERTISEMENTS: Vizag: 9885 444449 Hyderabad: 9553 955178

FOR QUERIES, CALL: 88854 88854

DIGITAL MAGAZINE NOW AVAILABLE ON

FOR STOCKINGS: Vizag: 8886 220566 Hyderabad: 9000 518375

` 50/NOVEMBER - DECEMBER 2016 HYDERABAD

FEATURE

WEDDING DIARY

SCOPE

UNSPOILT MANASA

Gearing up for the big fat day. Follow the map

Drooping with innocence

CHARM

BEAUTY REGIMENS

Flawless make-up is all you want

SPORTS

WOOSH GOES THE CAR Getting on track with the star

REVIEWS

SHOP TILL YOU DROP

It's that time of the year when you binge

Lavanya RNI: APENG/2011/38387 | POSTAL REG. NO. VSP/177/2014-2016

LIFESTYLE PERSONALITIES CINEMA FEATURE LUXURY EVENTS REVIEWS FOOD PARTIES

Red Reviews Check out on any conversation among the socialites, it often revolves around what they acquired recently and what eaterie they visited.

Hence previews and reviews are inevitable

20

Red Feature Weddings have crossed the threshold of tradition and have emerged as huge celebrations. So we need supporting agencies to conduct them successfully. The info is here about such facilities

27 Red Charm No wedding can start without the bride, sometimes even the groom, visiting the beauty parlors. We introduce a few artists who can make the couples glow like stars on their Big Day.

44

Red Haute Th lady was on a victory march. Glam girl Lavanya talks of her love for Telugu films. She is here to stay.

The actress throws light on her latest projects, her hobbies and life in general.

red | november 2016 | 06

Red Scope Manasa, the daughter of academicians broke from the traditional trajectory and took to films. That she did like fish to water. Read her journey in a field that is totally alien to her.

58

Srinivas & Priyanka

Jayesh Rangan

Ramesh Patel

Alick Bailey

Shivani Sen

KEEPING IT STYLISH

RECOGNIZING TALENT

Blenders Pride Fashion Tour, the most definitive expression of style and good taste, in its 12th edition dazzled the city of Nizams, showcasing multiple reection of style. The evening was an eclectic mélange of stylish designs and eccentric beats presented by designers Amit Aggarwal and Rohit Gandhi and Rahul Khanna, with a mix of musicians – Grain Ft. Apeksha Dandekar, Komorebi and Curtain Blue, at N Convention. Sonakshi Sinha at her stylish best charmed everyone as the showstopper for Rohit Gandhi and Rahul Khanna.

Vindhya & Baba

Pushpak Jain

Institute of Indian Interior Designers- Hyderabad Regional Chapter, organized a Hafele Design Awards night at The Trident. The 11th ceremony is hosted to recognize the creative talent of interior designers from the two Telugu states. The chief guest was V. Nagi Reddy, State Election Commissioner – Telangana. Chairperson, Sona Chatwani, Secretary, Nanda Kumar, and convener, Ravi Anchuri, – put together the event with great elan. The awards were divided into seven categories. Prior to award ceremony, a standup comedy show by Alick Bailey was held.

Raj & Padmaja

Rohit Gandhi, Sonakshi Sinha & Rahul Khanna

Vinaya & Denver

Moon Moon & Pradeep Roy

GOING OVERSEAS Hyderabadi based fashion designer, Ravita Mayor kick started the finale event at the India Fashion Week London, with Hollywood actor and model, James Lee Taylor at the Excel Stadium in London on 16th October.

It was her participation of her talent and skill as a couture designer amongst other top designers like Rocky S, Bhoomika, etc that made the city proud. Her Label, ‘Lyra Innovations’, focused on the traditional weaves, bringing out the beauty of local craftsmanship, thus contributing heavily to the efforts in reviving India’s dying crafts. She specializes in north eastern weaves and has cultivated a dedicated group of weavers and craftsmen from that region, while retaining the essence of every style.

red | november 2016 | 08

TIME IT! FESTIVE DELIGHT The premium fine diamond and gold jewellery brand, Kirtilals, which is revered by its patrons for quality and trust, announced exciting offers on diamond and gold jewellery this festive season. They launched a convertible diamond jewellery range, which gives emphasis on the design elements and multi-functionality. General Manager of the brand, Madhusudhan shared, “The evolving market trend demands wide range of designs in diamond jewellery. Today’s young customers want the best in quality and design at a viable price. To reach out to this segment of the new age customers we are coming up with this special offer this season.”

The Swiss watch brand Longines launched its new Longines Symphonette collection in Hyderabad recently. This new ladies’ range was presented to the media and guests at their popular boutique by the film actress, Raashi Khanna. In recognition of her grace, personality and work in the performing arts, she was presented with an elegant and beautiful watch belonging to this new line. Key customers and members of the media also attended the event.

DAY OF PAMPERING The ace salon and spa, Bounce, in Inorbit Mall, Madhapur hosted a special day of hair styling along with Bubbles and Bites recently. With a lineage of 12 years in international hairstyling, Bounce is known for inspiring style statements of world standards in hair, skin and spa services. The guest of honour for the evening was Trisha Krishnan, who was seen posing for the paparazzi. From the stylists who are highly professional to its plush interiors, the salon offered a complete contemporary experience.

FOOD FOR THE SOUL The grand launch of a new eatery in the city, Biryanis and More was done by actress Raashi Khanna on recently. The actress loved the scrumptious biryani that she tasted and even praised the chef. The outlet in Chandanagar had food lovers making a beeline to taste the mouth-watering spread that the place offered.

The food tasting was a huge hit as everyone was seen licking their fingers. In the land of biriyanis, this is yet another new experience for the foodies in the city.

red | november 2016 | 10

Poonam

Vinitha Priya Rajiv

Priya Reddy Atikaa

SALUTING IN STYLE Absalut Style, an show that comes with promise of an uber luxury shopping experience was back with its third edition – and this time it was bigger and better than before. Organizers Archie Paranji and Bobby Kandhari, presented collections of top designers from across the country. Present at the event were Jayasudha, Shilpa Reddy, Shreedevi Choudhary, Charmme Kaur, Honey Guha, Poonam Choudhari, Sakshi Giri and Ananya Simlai.

Archi, Jaya Sudha & Bobby

Neelam Ashley Bina Mehta

Fara

Virender Razdan

Double Delight

Aarthi

Fara

Celebrations were in the air as 2016 marked the 21st anniversary of ITC Kakatiya. It was time for the hotel to reect over the past 21 years and to look forward to the years ahead. The hotel hosted a fun get-together to celebrate the event with some of its guests. They also clubbed it with their annual cake mixing ceremony, which was attended by some well-known socialites. The aroma of dry fruits mixed with spirits was in the air, as the traditional ceremony that marks the arrival of the Christmas season, was performed.

Shruthi red | november 2016 | 11

Komal

Anisha Reddy

Vandana & Anurag Gupta

Pooja

Prestha, Sonali & Aishwarya Neetu

Shreedevi Chowdary

Harshita

SHINE ON! Carrying forward the tradition of commitment and loyalty to their customers, the Musaddilal family opened their new jewellery boutique. Marking the occasion, they hosted a gala function. This one of its kind outlet in Erramanzil, Banjara Hills, saw the who’s who of the city in attendance. The invitations were sent out from none other than Shreedevi Chowdary, who played the perfect hostess during the event. Guests were seen going gaga over the scintillating pieces that were on display.

Venella

DESIGNER TRUNK Labels that were debonair, exquisite and alluring were all found under one roof at the Faunsica Trunk Show, that was recently hosted at the Park Hyatt in the city.

Presented by Aishwarya and Preshtha and supported

by Sonali Sharma, it was a day full of indulgence.

Guests stepped into a world of fashion that spelt class and got ready to style themselves in the exotic, classic and chic Indo-western fusion fashioner collection. It was indeed an event for all fashionistas to revel in style of their own.

Baghashree

Prakash Chand Gupta & Kalavathi Gupta

Swati Sanghi

GLITTERING SHOW At a recent press conference, Manepally Jewellers proudly announced the launch of its new concept collection. The prestigious recipient of various awards, the jewellers are a name to reckon with in the industry. Top models showcased the rare and distinct bridal gold and diamond collection. They were dressed up as brides and displayed the jewellery at an specially designed mandapam. Introducing this jewellery to suit the myriad preferences of the culturally rich Deccan region, the jewellers also offered discount up to 50% on value addition.

red | november 2016 | 12

Kamini Saraf

Swetha

Juhi

Danisha

Geet

ALL FOR THE LOVE OF FASHION Ladies dressed to kill stepped out of their homes to attend Fashoin Yatra, a designer showcase, held at Taj Krishna.

Organized by Kamini Saraf, the exhibition had fashionable clothes and accessories on display. P3Ps were seen checking out stuff and after seriously contemplating, they filled their shopping carts. A whole lot of catching up with each other over the latest grapevine mixed with some retail therapy – was a perfect way for them to spend their day.

A CUT ABOVE THE REST Skoda launched their third-generation Superb Diesel at Mahavir Auto in the city recently. The vehicle is about 75 kgs lighter than its predecessor and boasts of a variety of unique features that perfectly complement brand. With bixenon headlamps, eight airbags, a panoramic sunroof, a virtual pedal for opening the boot and much more, this is quite a sought after car. The launch was done by Mahavir’s Directors Parsav Kumar Jhabakh and Mukesh Maheshwari in the presence of Ashish Rastogi and some Skoda’s admirers.

ALMOST NEW The Mahavir Group added yet another feather in their cap and launched their premium pre-owned car and bike showroom Auto Vault at Road No 36, Jubilee Hills recently. This one-stop destination for choosing an almost new luxury car and bike, houses some of the finest brands in the market. The USP of the store is that it offers certified vehicles, easy finance and free RSA for all its customers.

red | november 2016 | 14

Pinky Reddy & Falguni

Sheraz

Mallika & Veena

Bhoomi

Preksha

Asmita Marwa Upsanna

BOLD AND BEAUTIFUL

Simran Nidhi

Founded in 2012, by Falguni Nayar, Nykaa is chalking major expansion plans to tap into the growing cosmetics market in India. It has built a loyal base of beauty savvy customers through its inventory-led model with its ‘100% genuine’ product assortment. To add to the constantly expanding portfolio of unique brands, Nykaa recently executed the exclusive online launch of L’Oreal Group NYX Cosmetics in India, the most successful e-commerce launch for the brand globally.

TREND SETTER TrendzVivah, a fashion fiesta for every season, dazzled and showcased its extravagant wedding collection.

Actress Shilpi Sharma, who lighted the lamp, was jubilant and awestruck by the wonderful designs and ensemble. A bevy of top models showcased priceless works of art in style. Speaking on the occasion chief organizer of the exhibition, Shanti Kantiravan said, "TrendzVivah is India's leading label which is a brand by itself in designing wedding and festive ensemble.”

Priya

Komal Khan

Sneha

Anam Mirza Nikhila

Rashmi

Aliya Baig

Kushneet

Dr Anuradha

Samridhi red | november 2016 | 15

Antano Solar John, Padmaja & Viiveck Verma

Kushboo

A PERFECT START Hamstech for 24 years has been turning dreams of young budding designer students into reality. The Hlabel exhibition is one such platform which gives every student a chance to display his/her talent to the city – and this time it was bigger and better than before. With 25 collections of gorgeous designers wear that was a reection of the personalities of the students on the display, the event was quite a successful one. Guests were seen indulging in some retail therapy and praising the upcoming talent.

Kavitha

Ashita

INSIDE OUT FICCI Ladies Organization (FLO) organized an interactive session with Change Management guru, Close the deal guru, personal excellence expert Antano Solar John on ‘Invoking genius in you’ in the city. The gathering of 80 members lasted for 45 minutes and was followed by a conversation with Vivek Verma who is a coach, philanthropist and investor. ‘The session was organized for the benefit of our members, informed Padma Rajgopal, Chairperson of FLO.

Manisha

Akansha Vinitha Pitte, Shilpa Reddy & Ajitha Reddy

Mohini

Isita Singh Karishma

Suruchi & Swetha

Maya Patel Madhu

Shailu Reddy

Bhagyasree

Megha Dinesh

red | november 2016 | 16

Archana, Savita, Ritu, Vanita & Namita

Neha Gandhi

Trishna

Namita Singhvee

Chandini

HIGH FIVE FOR FASHION A two-day Khwaaish Exhibition and sale was organized at Taj Krishna. It was a Dussehra and Diwali special fashion destination, where famous and upcoming designers from all over India exhibited their designer ensembles, jewellery, shoes, home furnishings, accessories and home decor items. Organizers Namita, Vanita, Savita, Ritu and Archana ensured that they had a perfect turnout of all the shopaholics throughout the day.

Shika

Zubin

Karishma Vidya Setty Sushila Bakodia

Kavitha Jain

Nikitha

PARTY OF LIGHTS The festive season was in full swing and we got to witness a couple of ďŹ ne parties that sampled the festive fervor. Sushila Bokadiya hosted a pre-Diwali party to celebrate the joyous festival with her near and dear. The get-together saw ladies turn up, dressed in their ethnic best, having a great time. The venue at the Hotel Ramada, Begumpet, was tastefully done up and shine and glow all the way.

Alka Manoj red | november 2016 | 18

Padmaja

Heena

Kavitha Reddi Nisha

Dolly Gurbani Prerna

NINE YARDS OF GRACE Radha Krishna, a reputed and glorified brand, unveiled its rare, unique and exquisite collection with a fashion show. The traditionally rich Kanchipuram saris is a trademark specialty of the fashion tycoon that radiates with unmatched craft and designer excellence. The evening saw the glamorous and elegant Lakshmi Manchu sashayed the ramp as a showstopper and Mrs.India-South Abhimanika Tavi lighting the ramp in a traditional crafted sari. The event featured top notch models on the ramp, showcasing the diverse and myriad ensemble of the highest quality with extensively decorated designs.

Kapil

Jharna

Mala

GLITTERY DO After running a successful store for years, on Road No 12, Banjara Hills, Dolly Gurbani, opened a new outlet near the Jubilee Hills check-post, with great pomp and show. The opening was celebrated with a grand launch which was attended by the who’s who of the city. Guests were seen singing praises not just of the jewellery but also of the spectacular décor. The new store houses some of the most coveted jewels adorned with exceptional diamonds and precious gems. Some present at the launch were KavithaReddi, Komal Raichandani, Mala and Karan Jhadwani, Nisha Manghnani, Shweta Keerthi and Muqtedar Amir Khan.

Rajnish Anmol

Divya

Karishma

Vishal Gurbani

Kailash Biyani red | november 2016 | 19

Soulful Sarees REVIEW

O

n a mission to make women more beautiful, more traditional, the renowned silk brand Kancheepuram Varamahalakshmi Silks opened another branch in the city, in Patny Centre. After opening its first store in 2012, the brand now has 10 outlets across four states. As the name suggests, Kancheepuram Varamahalakshmi Silks is a temple of saris for the woman, who wish to add a never before aura to herself. It is the new abode for women, bringing to them exclusively created designer saris.

They house Kancheepuram, Aarani, Banaraas, Dharmavaram, Uppada and handloom saris. Providing this exclusive collection at an unbeatable price, as the brand owns more than 1000 handloom weaving machines, it eliminates the middleman and serves the end consumers on a direct level.

red | november 2016 | 20

Apart from this they even have the best of the best collections in designer fancy sarees, handloom sarees, kurtis, western wear, readymade, dress material with the guaranteed lowest prices when compared with the market.

The store aunts with the authentic Kancheepuram customs highlighting statue of Goddess Varamahalakshmi placed at the center of the oor and gives the feel of an old temple.

The walls are decorated with 3D paintings of Thanjavur while the ceiling also follows the same concept of Thanjavur exemplifying the traditional classical aesthetic art form that uses a unique style and technique.

Timing: 10am – 9pm | Ph: 040 66683666

REVIEW

Dazzling Diamonds

fter successfully running the designer jewellery brand Diyaash on Road No 12, Banjara Hills, owner, Dolly Gurbani recently relocated the store to Jubilee Hills. The new, lavish store is spread across 4000 sqft and two oors and houses one-of-a kind designer jewellery.

While the ground oor stocks a baby line, men's line and designer jewellery, the first oor has an exclusive bridal lounge and solitaire lounge.

A

Specializing in customized bespoke designer jewellery, bearing in mind the clients requirement without compromising on the quality and craftsmanship is what the brand and its designer are known for. They believe in great quality and craftsmanship and promise to cater nothing but unique, pretty designer pieces. “Get your sparkle on, show this world where you belong!” is what the owner/designer believes in.

The aureate decor at Diyaash speaks of class, elegance and is unlike any other jewellery store in the city. From the wall covers, to the jewellery display, to the scintillating gold leafing on the glass, to the personalized chandelier and door handles, everything just gives an exceptional and enigmatic feel. In the luxurious bridal and solitaire lounges, the customer can enjoy the 'Diyaash experience' and feel at home with privacy and comfort.

Every jewellery piece bought from Diyaash sparkles as good as new even after years of purchase and that is a result of strict quality, high intention, and skillful execution while making every piece. Walk into their scintillating store and be assured to get an amazing luxurious experience, enhancing customer satisfaction, exquisite jewellery, statement pieces, top notch quality and good buybacks.

Timing: 10.00am- 8.00pm | Ph: 040 23332324 red | november 2016 | 21

REVIEW

Fon d Mo

contemporary and suave interiors, give its clients a modern feel.

Transitioning from the wholesale textiles business driven mostly by the unorganized sector to high end retail business catering to niche segments takes a lot of visionary thinking. Esa Mohammed Aref, the young and suave third generation entrepreneur from the family made it possible through sheer determination and unconventional thinking. With his belief, “Make your own fashion statement and we are there to help you,” the group has set up a mark in the apparel segment with a distinct recall for its brand.

The store is a stupendous success story that has paved way for commissioning more stores across diverse geographies.

K

ashish is a premium brand from the group’s stable which caters to the high end fashion conscious segment in the women’s ethnic wear space. The brand has its agship store at Badi Chowdi, which was initially started in 2005 and on 8th Oct, was re-launched. With branches across Hyderabad, Mumbai, Dubai and now Bangalore, Kashish isthe direct result of its head honcho’s capability to scan markets and identify demand-supply gaps.

The lavish redone store is spread across two oors with a total area of 3000 sq ft, and houses traditional ethnic wear for party, casual and festivals, and promises to offer the latest in fashion. Its red | november 2016 | 22

Timing: 11:00am - 10:00pm | Ph: 9014900111

Shoot by Dinakar Pamu

HYDERABAD

Race

against Time

By Anahita Ahuja

H

is getting on to a track for the first time and winning the title – go to show only his natural talent. Meet Jeet Jhabakh, a 24-year-old lad who clinched the title of a Junior Champion at the Volkswagen Vento Cup 2016. We caught up with him to know how it all happened…

Congratulations! How does it feel?

Won the championship the first time I got on track, so was super excited and ecstatic. Now I am gearing for the next championship. Want to try to win again!

me what I was doing. His second question was - ‘Do you want to race?’

I was taken aback. wondering what he meant by that. Normally, I don't race on the roads and asked him, “Who ever told him I do these things? That is when he made it a clearer and mentioned that a Volkswagen person approached him about me and asked if I'd like to participate. I instantly said ‘yes’. Three days later I got a call from Volkswagen.

Winning the very first race leads to a lot of expectations. How do you plan to live up to them?

I try not to think about the expectations and I am trying to take it one step at a time. I think I won the first seven races only because of that. I am out there and More about the series…

It is a saloon car championship, one of having a ball the rest just happens. the finest in India! A great way to start Tell us how it all happened… for a rookie like me. The championship I am always fond of fast cars and is over a period of 4-5 months - 3 race speed in general and my family knows tracks - Buddh Circuit, Delhi, Madras that. One day, I was heading back from motor Race track, Chennai and Kari work and my uncle called and asked motor way, Coimbatore. It had 10 races

overall where all the cars are the same same race specs. Only thing we can change is the tyre pressure and anti roll bar. So it really comes down to the skill of the driver.

How supportive has the family been?

Dad, mom and uncle have been fully supportive. In the beginning, my mother was a bit apprehensive but neither dad nor she have missed a single race of mine. They find time to come and be with me for the weekend. The rest of the family has always been excited about it and have never allowed me to worry about the outcome.

How do you manage your work and car racing?

It is difficult to be honest in my answer. I would like to believe that I am balancing it pretty well. Give enough time to work when I am in town and delegate it to someone when I am not. It is working fine for now and I am getting used to it – What are your future plans like?

It goes without saying that I am going for this year’s championship as well, but post that would like to take part in Forumula1600 and then Formula 2000.

That is my target for the next 3 years.

I will have to rethink of my strategy after I achieve the first milestone.

What is the best piece of advice you have received?

I was fortunate to get technical support and advice from seniors like Ishaan and Karminder. That did make it easy. But on the whole both dad and uncle always

“

said go out and have fun and do your best. That was what I did. Fortunately, this time it was enough.

What were the hardships you faced?

Getting used to the new cars was the hardest part. Never raced ever, so understanding the car takes quite some time. I learn how it behaves in different conditions and set ups. Importantly, I learn how reacts on different tracks. My seniors must have driven some car or the other on these tracks, so they have an edge over me. The were taking corners faster than me, but I soon caught up with them.

What is that you enjoyed the most?

The overall experience! Every race weekend I lost contact with the rest of the world. No idea what was happening back home. Just living it up there was the best feeling ever.

I LIKE TO THINK I PERFORM WELL. I LIKE TO WIN. I WANT TO WIN. I GIVE IT ALL I HAVE

Is there anything you’d like to change about the game?

If I had it in my power I would like to give a little more track time to the rookies.

This gives them a chance to catching up with seniors in the first year.

Performing under pressure, what is your take on it?

I like to think I perform well. I like to win.

I want to win. I give it all I have, hence being under pressure is inevitable.

By what motto do you live your life?

Like I said, I like to win. No one remembers number two. I try and be number one always. If I fail, that is absolutely fine with me. But I make sure I come back stronger the next time.

A message to all those who want to get into this field…

If you really are passionate and think you can drive well, head to the try outs.

You would be surprised at the things you will learn and perhaps the things you can do. But only get into this if you are ready and eager to learn. Else you will be out in no time.

w

edding is one of the biggest events in the life of

HYDERABAD

not only the bride and groom but also their

families. One needs to take care of every

minute detail. It involves a lot of planning such as printing invitation, buying jewellery, decoration, venue selection, honeymoon planning. With the heavy work pressure involved, you don’t want to make your best day as the most stressful day. You can simply sit and relax on your wedding

Band

Baaja

Baaraat

by delegating the different chores to the ones who are best at it. You guessed it right, the wedding planners!

Wedding planners take care of the end-to-end arrangements from photography, makeup, lighting, catering and all other frills and fancies. You can come to your wedding just like a guest, without worrying about anything. If you are going to choose someone who is going to be the director of your big day, you need to spend a lot of time to choose them. We have made your work even easier by listing six best wedding planners in the city. Choose the bestest that ďŹ ts your requirements and budget.

Srinivas Gunishetty, Farha Kudari & Ayush Agarwal

By Anahita Ahuja | Shoots by Dinakar Pamu

Brinda Prasad

Saanya & Vanitha

Archie Paranjee

Minttu Sarna & Breeze

Rakhi Kankaria

red | november 2016 | 27

HYDERABAD

A DREAM TEAM Brinda Prasad

C

oming from the largest event management company in South India, which owns properties like the Celebrity Cricket League and South Indian International Awards, managing weddings is a cake walk for this team. Founded by Brinda Prasad, Wedmantra is one of the safest companies to give your wedding planning. Having learnt the tricks of the trade, the company has now also become an online vendor that brings you the best from across the country.

How long have you been in this business?

We have been here over five years.

red | november 2016 | 28

What is your general philosophy about weddings?

Wedding is a very personal thing and we have to balance choices of the couple and their parents without hurting any one of them.

What venues do you work in?

From small halls for 300 guests to 15 acre farms for 25,000 guests.

What sort of services do you offer?

We handle everything right from conceptualising the theme, which is carried on right from the invitations to the decor, design the entertainment.

We also take care of the Sangeet, and managing guest list by handling their travel and stay etc.

WEDMANTRA SETS

What made you want to be a wedding planner?

As we are into events, lot of our friends asked us to help them out during their weddings and that is when we realised that here is a big industry, but it is disorganised. Hence there is a lot of scope to improve the services. Planners, in reality, help the couple in reducing their expenditure by getting the right vendors and keeping a check on the deliverables.

Do you create the overall vision, or are you a producer?

We conceptualise the whole thing and then plan everything within the budget specified by the client.

Not every day will be our day and only those who can manage things even on a bad day only can survive in this industry. We need to be practical while giving a commitment to the clients.

Do you handle event styling?

It is an integral part of our job.

Describe the most challenging wedding you have handled it.

The wedding in a politician’s family where we haven't been given the exact

What is your mainstay -design or coordination?

As we have been handling large format celebrity events, our speciality is that we can manage the entire event on a turnkey basis with a predefined budget.

There are no hidden costs.

What was the most unique wedding you have ever planned?

It was a destination wedding in Sri Lanka where the theme was Tirupathi Balaji.

The Balaji motifs were carried in the design right from invitations to decor to return gifts.

count of the guests and the venue was overcrowded and we had to struggle managing the crowd as well as arranging food for everyone.

How do you work around a budget?

We first take the budget of the client and the number of guests and try to work accordingly. Scale of the wedding depends on the guest list and based on the budget, we give multiple options.

What are the three most important things you look at while putting an event together?

Budget, number of guests and number of functions in the wedding.

How do you make every dĂŠcor different from the other?

Just like each designer outfit is different from the other, we try to keep each design different from the other.

What is your secret for staying calm under pressure? How do you deal with a day of disasters?

The kind of job we are in, we need to be prepared for crisis management.

red | november 2016 | 29

HYDERABAD

Srinivas Gunishetty, Farha Kudari & Ayush Agarwal

What made you choose this profession, as a planner?

All of us are driven by a passion to create and explore. This brought us this industry. We were united at a wedding of a film star, there we realised that we were guided by the same ideology and Pink Pagdi was born.

How long have you been in it?

In the past five years we have executed 236 weddings and pre-wedding events successfully.

What is your philosophy of wedding?

Wedding is about the bride and groom, not the guests. In other words, the couple should enjoy the special moment of their lives.

THE THREE MUSKETEERS

P

ink Pagdi, was formed by Farha Kudari, Srinivas Gunishetty and

Ayush Agarwal, who as a team handle the vision, execution and

marketing respectively. With the belief that great designs are an

outcome of well thought out concepts, the company is a magic wand, one needs in order to make that big day of your life perfect!

red | november 2016 | 30

What services do you offer?

We are wedding planners – that says it all. Find your soulmate and we will take care of the rest, starting from the theme of your wedding, décor, concept and design, logistics and guest services, venue management, artist, personalized services for the bride and groom like grooming, clothing and shoe designers. It is a comprehensive list. We simply do everything that goes into making of a gala.

Do you create the overall vision, or are you a producer?

People are still getting used to the concept of wedding planning; they still treat wedding planners as just decorators. So we have introduced two formats of working – Complete ownership of the wedding where end to end services including execution is done by us and the other one is the consultation format where we work with the clients vendors and do negotiations for them.

PINK PAGDI SETS

What was the most unique wedding you have ever planned till now?

Every wedding is unique for us. In the very first wedding we did, we built a mandap in the infinity pool at The Park Hotel, Necklace Road became the backdrop. This was the first time Hyderabad had ever seen an innovation of this kind.

How do you stay calm under pressure and how do you deal with day of disasters?

Event Management is said to be one of the most stressful services in the world. Over the years, we have learnt to handle stress. Touchwood, we have not had disasters so far.

Describe the most challenging wedding you planned and how did you handle it?

This was a Tollywood celebrity wedding. And with celebrity events comes the challenge of handling masses. We faced a similar situation, there were 10,000 guests, including stars like Abhishek Bachchan, Sania Mirza and Kamal Hassan. We put in six months of extensive planning and two months to make sure the venue was secure and the event went flawlessly well. A lot of new concepts like bike taxis, social media wall, and message swipe were introduced.

How do you work around a budget?

We are magicians and don't reveal our tricks.

What are the three most important things you look at while putting it all together?

Client’s requirement, look, feel and practicality. red | november 2016 | 31

HYDERABAD

Saanya & Vanitha

Two’s Company

A

s a creative events coordination company, Karyakram caters to requirements to create a signature event. With their expertise, they

provide services from the best possible professionals to plan, develop and execute a memorable event.

Saanya Kalsi, an architect with vast design experience and Vanita Rupani, a teacher with immense management skills, make an efficient duo.

What made you want to be a wedding planner?

Wedding planning brings out the best in us and lets us experiment with our creativity. It is a great channel for our design sensibility and management skills. We get to learn more about ourselves and it is extremely rewarding when the couple, after witnessing all the details coming together, have a big smile and are happy about it.

What is your general philosophy about weddings?

For us our priority is to put the bride and the groom at ease.

While we take care of all the details, they should be able to enjoy their wedding. We believe

red | november 2016 | 32

that the entire ceremony should focus on reflecting their traditions style and culture and in a very signature way.

What kind of venues do you choose to work in?

We have worked in varied venues ranging from a 5-star hotels to residences and from a sports village to a cafĂŠ venue.

Tell us about your services.

Our expertise lies in planning and executing the concept, dĂŠcor and design of the event. We also coordinate with various vendors to ensure a hassle-free event.

Do you create overall vision or are you a producer ?

While we conceptualize the overall vision of the event, we also get on to the field and take care of the nittygritty. We handle all aspects.

What is your specialty, design or coordination?

While both go hand-in-hand, our focal point lies in design. the most unique wedding...

We were a part of Tollywood actor Aadarsh Balakrishna’s wedding. It was challenging and exquisite.

What is your secret for staying calm under pressure?

We have our stressful moments.

But, one of us manages to remain calm. Our team is used to our style of work. We organise work in such a way to avoid last moment rush.

The most challenging wedding ...

Each wedding comes with its own set of problems. We had been in situations where the vendors were a

no show and we had to think on our feet to find solutions. Sometimes, the unpredictable weather or sometimes last minute changes can put us in a spot.

How do you work around a budget?

Firstly, we try to understand the requirements of the clients and the amount they are willing to spend for the wedding. Once we have that information, we provide the client with multiple options that fit his or budget and requirements.

3 important things you look at ?

The three most important things we focus on are a client’s satisfaction, our performance and delivery. We make sure that we deliver what is promised by us.

How do you make every décor different from the other?

Every wedding story is different.

Hence while conceptualizing the theme we understand their story, style, preferences and the funds available.

KARYAKRAM SETS

red | november 2016 | 33

C

oming from a family that has been in the transport and logistics business for the past five decades, to working in software development and then getting into planning events–Minttu Sarna and his wife Breeze have come a long way. It was when he failed to find a good and reasonable planner for his friend’s event, that he took it upon himself to accomplish the entire thing – and accidently found his true calling. That is how ‘Minttu N Breeze’ came into being – and today it is one of the most popular wedding planners in the city. The firm works to satisfy its client’s quest for creativity for a reasonable budget.

Minttu & Breeze

HYDERABAD

DIRECTED BY DESTINY

MINTTU N BREEZE SETS

red | november 2016 | 36

How long you have been in this line?

The first 3 years went off as a pursuit of hobby, but professionally it has been six years so far.

What is your philosophy of wedding?

I firmly believe that weddings are a bundle of emotions that people want to cherish for a lifetime.

Between design and coordination, what is your speciality?

We do both as I feel both go hand in hand. As informed earlier, we design the overall event as it has to be a complete experience for the host leaving a lasting impressions with him and an enjoyable and euphoric experience for the guest.

What is your preference for venue?

What sort of services do you offer?

Bespoke weddings. We choose the special elements in our client’s life and we weave a theme around it.

Thus we give an artistic expression to his or her inner happiness. So as to make the day an event of a lifetime.

Do you handle event styling?

Yes, we do style the event as our concepts and visions have to be in sync with the overall event.

What is your secret for staying calm under pressure, and how do you deal with day of disaster?

I draw inspiration from nature- it is calm and quiet, yet has a lot to offer.

How do you work around the client’s budget?

Budget is the biggest challenge for a designer because he has to give his best, within the restrictive budgets.

That is when our creativity is put to test. I take it positively and plan the event because I don’t feel money can buy emotions, it can be created with the simplest of things around you.

I take it as a challenge to transform any space we work into a beautiful venue. From palaces to open spaces like beaches, we have worked in all kinds of places. We worked in the best of the convention centres across the world. My work is my passion hence I can convert any venue into a fairy tale location.

Do you create the overall vision or are you more of a producer?

We are the ones who conceptualise, create experiences and shape the dreams and visions of all our clients.

Minttu N Breeze is the Swarovski inspired wedding at the Taj Falaknuma Palace where everything was designed exclusively keeping the Swarovski crystals elements in mind.

What are the three most important things you look at while putting an even together?

Design, planning and execution.

Unique wedding you ever planned?

Being awarded as the best in the industry is an accomplishment and to live up to everyone’s expectations is not easy. For us, every wedding is like a baby which needs to be nurtured with a lot of care. The best wedding so far by

How do you make every décor different from the others?

It is again a challenge. We strive to create wedding that is different and not similar to the previous one.

red | november 2016 | 37

HYDERABAD

Creative and Classy

ARCHIE PARANJI

K

What made you want to be a wedding planner?

I was a lecturer, teaching English – this is definitely is not something I ever thought I would land up doing – but then destiny had its own plans. My friends used to love the way I hosted parties and one of them asked me to organize her magazine’s anniversary.

The event was a huge success and that is how I ended up in the event industry. One thing led to the other and before I knew it, I was organizing parties and launches for well known brands in the city, including high profile brands like Bentley, Lladro, Address-Home etc. But, the best part is that I love it so much it doesn't even feel like work!

How long have you been in it?

I started, by accident, in 2005.

What is your general philosophy about weddings?

Flowers, shimmering crystals, twinkling lights and rich fabrics - all things beautiful and pretty, make a

red | november 2016 | 38

nown for creating beautiful ambience using unparalleled décor concepts for several high profile functions and events Archie Paranji, needs no introduction in the city. Her event planning and execution company, Archie Paranji Designs, takes pride in giving a personal approach to every event undertaken. It is this one-to-one rapport she provides, that works as her USP and has made her a household name in this field.

lovely memorable wedding. The icing on the cake is the smile on the faces of the bride and groom!

What kind of venues do you generally choose?

Even though the venue does not stop us from executing what we want to, I simply love working in the open –it is unrestricted without pillars, walls and ceilings.

What sort of services do you offer?

We are a wedding planning service.

We take care of decor, entertainment as well as styling of the bride and groom, styling table, wedding cards, gift packaging and making trousseau.

It is more of a one-stop shop where you would find everything that is needed or goes into putting a wedding together.

Do you create the overall vision, or are you more of a producer who brings in an event designer?

I have people coming to me for my innovative concepts and designs.

I create an overall vision.

Do you handle event styling?

Absolutely.

If you do both coordination and design, what is your specialty?

In my opinion, as different as these two are, they both go hand in hand.

You cannot just be good at one because the other will suffer.

What was the most unique wedding you have ever planned?

Every wedding is unique in some way or the other, but I would like to state a few: The Rudraksh Theme for an elite wedding at Golconda Resort, where a 40x8' backdrop was created out of lotus leaves and strings containing 40000 rudraksh beads and traditional Coimbatore malas were used for the mandap. The divine fragrance of the setting mesmerized the audience.

Another was a vineyard theme for a sangeet function where the venue was decorated with bunches of red and green grapes and sprigs of orchids.

I also did a Hyderabad Bangle (Kada) Theme at a sangeet function.

It was highly appreciated wherein giant Hyderabad traditional bangle (Kada) with LED lighting become centre of décor. Lastly, another favourite would be the Rajasthani style palace created from wood, fibre glass and decorated with metallic paints and enamel work at a Rajasthani wedding which was also much talked about in the social circles of the city.

What is your secret for staying calm under pressure, and how do you deal with day-of disasters?

I have learnt everything the hard way, One achieves success only by remaining calm.

Describe the most challenging wedding you planned and how did you handle it.

Each wedding throws different challenges. Sometimes the shortage of time causes problems sometimes

ARCHIE PARANJI DESIGNS SETS

the weather plays truant. What happens with weddings is that you cannot predict much – all you can do, from your end is, be prepared.

How do you work around a budget given by a client?

That is not so hard though that is the main part of it. You give the client the best you can in the budget decided.

Once you know your limits, it becomes easier to work within it.

What are 3 important things you look at when putting it together?

Sticking to time schedules for each event, delivering to the best of our abilities and keeping calm.

How do you make every décor different from the other?

If people come to you because of your uniqueness, you need to live up to that. Hence making everything different from what has already been seen is an effort.

HYDERABAD

Creating Celebrations

T

he vacuum and agony of no professional approach to such a big activity like a wedding and a social marketing investment, made Rakhi Kankaria think about a solution in 2003. This is what drove her into a parallel starting wedding designing and planning, along with event management. Thus was born Rachnoutsav (meaning Rachna = creation and Utsav = celebration) from the sacred Sanskrit script.

What is your general philosophy about weddings?

Philosophy means the study of the fundamental nature of knowledge, reality, and existence, especially when considered as an academic discipline, and in my knowledge weddings are a social platforms where the general outlook of both the involved families is to create the social standing by exhibiting taste, class, style, sophistication, punctualities, hospitality and many such parameters individually considered during each event.

The philosophy in Wedding is also to create the Social market for the coming years for many reasons.

Rakhi Kankaria What venues do you prefer?

Residences, party places, open raw arenas, convention centres, resorts, government venues, destinations in and around India and foreign spots.

designs, themes, concepts, etc. In some cases, where the client wants to associate with big brands, we outsource that particular expertise and deliver the services.

from a different class of choice, style, taste, requirements. Hence almost all the events handled by us are Planners unique and give the client experience of his/her lifetime.

What sorts of services do you offer?

We are a complete solution delivery company- from concept to execution which includes designing, modelling, sampling, venue selection, logistics, entertainment, gifting, wedding invites, memories, photo and videos, shopping for couples and families.

What is your specialty- design or coordination?

As we are a wedding planning company delivering services since a long time, we have trained people.

They handle their portfolios independently and can customize to every event. Since both designing and coordination go hand in hand. The important aspect which we rely on is professionalism in all departments.

What is your secret for staying calm under pressure, and how do you deal with day of disasters?

As mentioned earlier, since we are into this business over a period of time, we have developed lots of processes and systems, operational platforms. Hence the normal challenges are not pressure points for us at any time. The pressures would be from unforeseen situations hence these are dealt with lots of care and transparency.

Do you create the overall vision, or are you a producer?

We do create an overall vision and work in tandem with client to achieve the deliverables. We have a complete design studio which creates the required creative venue and stage red | november 2016 | 40

What was the most unique wedding you have ever planned?

As you may be aware most of the guests who hire wedding planners are

To win the confidence of the clients, we will not let the quality of the event be compromised under any circumstances.

As of dealing with the day of disaster, I pray hard to god that I don’t need to see this, as till date I haven’t seen any such thing till now.

How do you work around a budget?

The budgets are decided as per the requirement of the clients. It depends largely on the chosen venue, styling, number of people and other multiple inputs like flowers, special effects, lights, artistes- the list endless. We have a transparent fee system so that client knows where the money is going.

RACHNOUTSAV SETS

What are the three important things you look at while putting a wedding event together?

Transparency when it comes to money, and achievability when it comes to aspirations of the client. There should not be a huge gap between the client’s expectations and our achievements.

How do you make every décor different from the other?

Our décor is designed keeping a few important factors in mind. There should not be any repetitions; themes should be research-based and inspirational subjects should be amplified. These factors help us in making our weddings/events unique.

HYDERABAD

Charm

Dolling Up for the Big Day!

By Anahita Ahuja | Shoot by Dinakar Pamu

T

hough God has already made all of us beautiful, we just need to polish our looks to make all that difference – and especially on our big day. This is done through make-up

and hair styling, at which all of us are not experts. hence we seek the help of professional artists. One of the last princely states in India, Hyderabad has an air of royalty and opulence that are hard to recreate anywhere else. The weddings here have a feel of royalty which no other state can match up to. The bride looks like a princess to be married to the prince of her dreams and it is only the right make-up which can make a bride stand out in a crowd.

We contacted some of the most popular make-up artists in the city, and spoke to them to understand what kind of services they offer and why a to-be-bride should pick them. Read on more to know about these brands which are known for their royal make-up and the quality of cosmetics they use.

red | november 2016 | 44

Neeru Mohan

Bellissimo Salon and Spa

Smitha Vallurupalli Yasmin Bubbles Hair & Beauty Salon Lucas Salon

Madhuri Bhaskar

Page 3 Luxury Salon & Makeover Studio

Veena

Naturals Salon

red | november 2016 | 45

HYDERABAD

Charm

Bellissimo Salon and Spa

Neeru Mohan

One Man Army

H

aving created a name in the world of fashion, beauty and media for photographic shoots, fashion shows, makeovers, TV commercials and film sets, Neeru Mohan has come a long way. Utilizing her versatility and instinctive ability to create from cutting edge contemporary to classically chic, she has a flair and passion for stunning make-up with a professional approach. Her attention to detail, for which she is known, Neeru confidently delivers the perfection and fine detail demanded by leading photographers and clients. skin treatments and reexology.

Through this, I am to make the world beautiful and create a new person within everyone.

Where did you learn the art of makeup?

I have been trained under the Bollywood diva Ojas Rajani, who has taught me basic make-up/pre-wedding and portfolio shoots.

Then I did an advance make-up course from London, one air brush make-up course, advance hairstyling from Singapore, and a hair care/skin care from VLCC. For me, the sky is the limit, so I am enthusiastic to learn what is in vogue.

What is your experience in creating bridal looks?

Make-up is to accentuate the features one is blessed with and I feel blessed that with my magical strokes if I am able to make the bride feel significant by enhancing the women in her. It is my passion to make the bride looks like Cinderella before she meets her prince charming.

What all do you offer?

My salon Bellissimo is a unisex salon so we offer hair care, hair treatments, skin care,

red | november 2016 | 46

What do you specialize in?

To create awless looks and accentuate the features my brides are blessed with. I am with their proper consultation as I believe that consultation plays a very important role. If they have chosen me for their big fat day, it is my responsibility to make their dreams come true by gifting them their desired looks.

Hence it is a constant effort to keep upgrading myself.

Which was the most special wedding you worked on?

I did a destination wedding where the engagement was done by topnotch make over artist while the bride chose me for wedding.

I catered to 65 people along with ten make-over artist and ten hair stylists. The reaction I got from them, and the sparkle in their eyes with the outcome was the most satisfying feeling ever.

What beauty products do you prefer?

I use more of Bobbi Brown, Make Forever, Nyx, Mac and Inglot. I like to play with different products, while for airbrush, I go easy with Temptu.

Any tips for the to-be-brides?

Keep yourself tension-free. Decide in advance about the pre-bridal and home care services, to avoid last minute tensions.

How important are trial sessions?

When you are working with a beautician and make-up artist for the second time, there is more clarity in the look. So, one should always get trials done.

Are you open to duplicating make-up style?

No, that is something I don’t like doing. I don’t think it is fair on your part, as an artist to replicate something someone else has done.

God blessed me with the sense to determine what suits a person.

Charm

Bubbles Hair & Beauty Salon

HYDERABAD

Under one

Roof

B

What is your experience in creating bridal looks?

Our exceptionally talented make-up artists’ team creates and caters to different brides, We have different options for different individuals, ceremonies and customs. We have brides who come and book us for five occasions like their cocktail, Sangeet, bridal shower, wedding and reception – and then our task is to make each look different from the other. In fact, each look better than the one before.

experienced therapists take care of your skin care needs with high end products in one of our luxury spa rooms. Our specials include Bio- white and Shahnaz facials, which give you a long lasting freshness. We also offer Eminence Organic Facials to those who would like to give their faces a special glow.

We believe that the hair is a reection of you and hence we take pride in creating styles that suit any occasion.

Whether it is cuts, colour or styling, our luxury products and expertly trained staff- your hair care is in the What all do you offer?

We offer all beauty and hair services. best of hands. Our senior stylists are We dress up the ladies for party always around to suggest the best makeup, photoshoots, fashion shows look and to make sure your hairstyle and above all weddings. You could reects your personality without any pick our skin services that soothe damage. your skin with our alluring range of Lastly, our team of experienced facials, which will make you feel makeup artists make you feel revived and invigorated. Our special.

We work towards customizing looks that reect your personality and style.

Tell us about your team…

About 25 make-up artists from all the branches are constantly busy

Smitha Vallurupalli

ubbles Hair & Beauty Salon, part of a growing network of high-end beauty chains in India, is a brand that has been working with hair and beauty, is all set to celebrate its 14th anniversary on Dec 3. They have 13 branches, with the one at Jubilee Hills being their first. Owned by Smitha Vallurupalli, the brand believes that beauty is more than just looks, it is about pampering body and soul.

during wedding season, portraying innovative looks for the brides. All the makeup artists undergo training to upgrade the skills and work as team.

They are trained by India's top leading artist like Mickey Contractor (Mumbai), Abhijeet (Kolkata) and from different professional brands like Kryolan.

What do you specialize in?

We bring luxury beauty services with professional stylists and therapists for you to indulge in a soothing ambience.

Soothe your senses, pamper your body and indulge your soul at our salon.

Any tips for the brides to-be?

We would ask the bride to book an appointment for consultation. Suggest regimen (CTM: Cleansing, Toning, Moisturizing), use sunscreen; suggest pre-bridal packages. Basically, they should eat healthy food, drink lots of water and sleep well.

Contact details: Bubbles Hair & Beauty Salon Plot no 21 B, Journalist Colony B, Jubilee Hills. Ph: 9010836699 red | november 2016 | 47

Page 3 Luxury Salon & Makeover Studio

Charm

HYDERABAD

ALL IN

E

I

t is your wedding day and you want to look nothing less than a princess, so what do you do? Go to a salon to have them conceptualize your dreams into reality – and what better than landing up at a place that offers it all. PAGE 3 Luxury Salon and Makeover Studio, located on KBR road in Jubilee Hills, is a perfect place to put on a robe, curl up and hang out for a long while. We caught up with the owner, Madhuri Bhaskar, who gives us an insight about her salon and team.

drink plenty of water, maintain your skin and hair with right product care, get regular facials, and hair spas.

Get your pre-bridal services and exfoliations lined up before your wedding dates. Do try couple of make-up artists, check the products they use and their bridal catalogue, finalize your bridal look, take a trial makeup before the wedding.

Madhuri Bhaskar Tell us about your team‌ Our make-up artists are trained under Marvie Ann Beck, Nithin, trainers from Makeup Studio and Temptu. They have learnt their skills of long hair-dressing and avante guard hair dressing under the Loreal Dream Team - Vipul and Sachin Dakoji.

What is your experience in creating bridal looks?

Our brand pans all over India with six branches in key cities and specializes in make-up and make-over. Our make-up experience expands beyond brides to working women with various celebrities

and movie stars. Our artists are busy working on magazine cover photos, TV shows & fashion shows. With our wide range of experience and expertise, we understand clients, their expectations and work towards making their special day the best moment of their life.

What all do you offer?

We offer party make-up, express makeup, bridal (gorgeous, glamour, supreme), eye make-up, and Air Brush make-up. Price range for makeup varies from Rs.3,000 - Rs.24,000. Our packages include hair, make-up, sari drape. We offer complimentary trial make-up or beauty services for family/friends beside discounts to suite customer needs.

What do you specialize in?

We specialize in make-up, hair dressing, trendy hair cut and colour, nail art, pre-bridal services, airbrush make-up, and hair extensions.

Any tips for the to-be brides?

If you want the best result for your make-up, eat healthy,

red | november 2016 | 48

How important are trial sessions?

I would highly recommend make-up trials for brides to ease the stress and get the optimum result on their very own special day.

What is your take on replicating the bridal looks?

Constantly clients ask us for Bollywood looks or get us pictures of brides they want to replicate. As experts, we look into the skin tone, costume for the day and suggest clients what is best and alter accordingly with variations.

How do you handle sensitive skin and hair issues?

We carry premium skin and hair care products from Italy, Spain, France and Germany. Our products are safe and non-abrasive for both skin and hair, addressing various skin, hair conditions and problems. Our experts at salon are well trained under international trainers to upkeep with latest techniques.

Contact details: PAGE 3 luxury Salon and Makeover Studio; Jubilee Hills.

Ph: 04040040633; 04040040733; Id: page3salonhyd@gmail.com

HYDERABAD

Charm

W

Yasmin

Lucas Salon

Path to Beauty

hat is special about Lucas Salon?

It invites even the most casual traveler on the beauty path to experience what a transformation is all about. Creative Director, Yasmin, a trained make-up artist has been gifted with the ability to perfectly work her magic through the skillful execution of a number of tried, tested and trusted makeup packages. She tells us about her salon and favorite products.

Where did you learn the art of make-up?

Make-up is my passion and I had the knack for it from the very beginning.

When I got married is when I honed my skills and got certified by a few world academies. I have travelled a lot of countries and tried to take the best of all my fellow artists, as I believe that observing also teaches you a lot.

What is your experience in creating bridal looks?

We love to enhance the beauty of our brides. For us, the make-up artists, it is not just a business but something very artistic. Make-up is an art where we create mesmerizing looks without disturbing the inner beauty.

What all do you offer?

We offer various services but our pre-bridal sessions start from a month before the event, when we work on our client’s look. That involves head-to-toe services that include eyebrow, haircut, hair spa, facial, body polishing, skin enhancement treatments, manicure, pedicure and waxing. Besides this, we create different looks that go with the wedding events keeping the dress and accessories in mind.

What do you specialize in?

It would be difficult to just name a few, but one word that describes is that we specialize in “Bridal make-overs”.

Which was the most special wedding you worked on?

Every wedding has been special to us as we take each wedding as our priority.

All the 382 bridal make-ups we have done in the past four years are special.

Our clientele includes right from the girl next door to the top actor. I take great pride in saying that all my brides have been recommended by somebody and they have come through word of mouth.

What products are your favourite?

M.A.C., Kryolan, Bobbi Brown, Sephora are my favourite.

Any tips for the to-be-brides?

Eat and drink well and you shall have a awless skin. Be happy, confident as you are going to live one the best moments of your life. And most importantly, stay positive.

How important are trial sessions?

Many a time, people shy away from trial make-up. But it is good to go for a make-up rehearsal as it gives you confidence and a good sense of understanding what suits you.

How do you handle sensitive skin and hair issues?

We have an experienced team who handles every issue with ease without making our client worry about it.

Contact details Lucas salon | Ph: 04023555514/29

Naturals

HYDERABAD

Charm

atural Flair

M

What all does Naturals offer?

Our wedding make-up artists and hairstylists create unique looks by blending international trends and traditional styles, which have inspired our three key bridal styles – the classic South Indian bride, the Bollywood inspired North Indian bride and the elegant Christian bride. Our experts create a special look for each bride based on her wedding attire, time of day, venue and her preferences.

On offer are pre-bridal services like clean up, manicure, pedicure, waxing, facials, hair spa and body polishing treatment.

What are your basic packages?

We believe the days before the wedding are the most crucial of all.

Cold feet and wedding jitters can certainly keep you on edge and that is where we come in! Hence

red | november 2016 | 50

we offer a range of bridal packages that not only calm you, but also beautify you inside, out. Our bridal packages range from a one-day miracle package to a three months of luxury package, which includes body massage, facials, under eye treatment, skin lightening procedures and much more. We offer packages for grooms.

What do you specialize in?

Long or short, curly or straight, frizzy or silky, no matter what type of hair you have, you can trust us to style it to perfection. From cuts and colours to hair spa and other treatments, our hair experts are skilled at crafting a look that suits you without damaging your hair. Our experts create hairstyles that are a mix of trend and tradition, ensuring that every bride is picture perfect.

We also believe that make-up is the best accessory. No outfit is complete without tinted lips or kohl eyes!

Our make-up experts design unique looks that complement the bride’s outfit, and physical features. Our bridal

Veena Kumravel

aking your fairytale wedding a reality is Naturals, which helps transform brides-to-be into beautiful princesses on their special day. Having created a brand and name years ago, they know all the tricks of the trade and hence are a hot favorite with the most. Their beauty experts help you de-stress by nurturing your skin with the care it needs, arming you with a natural glow on your big day. Their make-up artists and hairstylists are known to create a unique look for each bride that highlights their best features. Founder, Veena Kumravel, speaks about her team and brand.

make-up offers a range of looks from trendy to elegant and from traditional to Bollywood.

Which was the most special wedding you worked on?

It would have to be the Kingfisher 2013 and 2014 fashion shows for their wedding collection.

Any tips for the to-be-brides?

It is a combination of a lot of things like: facial and hair spa, cleansing, toning, moisturizing, exfoliation, homemade treatments (product giving for salon), beautiful hands and feet (manicure and pedicure), hair removal (waxing), gym, meditate, diet, sleep, spa and massage, maintaining the glow and do not skip meals.

How important are trial sessions?

Trail session is important to understand the skin and hair type of the customer and also helps us to understand the customer’s mind set.

Contact details: Naturals Rd no 92, Jubilee Hills. | Ph: 9849577740

HYDERABAD

Celebrations Galore!

A grand party was hosted to celebrate the grand win of racing sensation Jeet Jhabhak. The family and close friends were there to take part in the do. The night was all about good food, ďŹ ne conversations and a whole lot of praises. Some present, speaking highly of the 24-year-old lad were Shalini, Pavan, Pashu, Ishaan, Vasuda, Shruti and Sonali.

red | november 2016 | 52

SIZZLING

By Lachmi Deb Roy

Lavanya

he Tripathi girl never fails to dazzle. Her flawless complexion and curly locks surely make heads turn. In an interview with red, the very sexy and successful, Lavanya Tripathy talks about her background, her life in general, her upcoming projects and her love for Telugu movies. Read on...

T

red

MY JOURNEY AS AN ACTRESS HAS BEEN VERY SMOOTH. I DON’T LIKE TO WORK ON TOO MANY MOVIES AT A TIME

“

I LOVE MY WORK AND I AM COMPLETELY AT PEACE WITH MYSELF.

Tell us about your new projects.

Mister and Mayavan in Tamil are the two films that I am working on.

Who has been your biggest influence?

My mom and my sister, both of them have inuenced me tremendously in my life. I have learnt a lot from them. Though my sister got married very early, she did not stop chasing her dreams.

Unlike many women who think marriage to be the end of their career, she became a commissioner after getting married. I admire my mom because she knows how to handle any situation and the way she deals with any difficult turns in life with patience and confidence.

From the filmy world, I admire Priyanka Chopra as an actress.

The way she has grown as an actress inspires me. She is a perfect example of a lady with both beauty and brains.

What do you think to be the best quality about you?

I love the work that I do and I am completely at peace with myself. I don’t try to compete with anybody and that I think to be the best thing about myself. I feel everybody is special and unique in their own way and I do not want to get into any unhealthy competition with anybody.

How has your journey been as an actress?

My journey as an actress has been pretty smooth. I do not like working on too many movies at one time and I am pretty selective when it comes to choosing my roles. I consider myself to be quite successful. I have given two blockbusters. I did take a break for some time to work on myself and I went to Bombay to learn Kathak from my guru, Vijayshree.

Which movie has been closest to your heart and why?

Anything first holds a special place in everybody’s heart and for me too, it is my first movie, Andala Rakshasi. The movie was shot for almost a year and I completely got into the skin of the character that I played.

When is it that you actually decided to become an actor?

I was modeling in Mumbai, doing back to back commercials. There came a point of time in my life when I badly needed a break and there was nothing much left for me to do in my modeling career.

Life became monotonous, that is the time, I got a call from a friend regarding a role in a Telugu film and my journey as an actor started.

How comfortable are you in bold scenes?

If the movie demands a bold scene, then I am okay with it.

I just need to prepare my mind before hand and I feel that the scene should not look cheap and should be done in a tasteful manner.

What are the kind of movies do you like working in?

As I mentioned I do not like working in too many movies at one time. I like trying out different roles and hate doing the same kind of thing again and again.

How do you define yourself as an actor?

As an actor, I am a learner that’s what I would like to be known as. I am open to learning every single day and I feel that this is what keeps me going.

Any specific director that you would love to work with?

I would love to work with Sukumari and Rajmouli in Tollywood. In Bollywood, I wish to work with Imtiaz Ali. I AM NEVER GOING TO LEAVE WORKING IN TELUGU MOVIES

What is your idea of perfect date?

For me the person matters. He should be intelligent, good looking, smart and

What is your idea of happiness?

I want to be surrounded with happy and positive people. I do not want any grumpy faces around me.

ON A LIGHTER NOTE

Any plans of trying your luck in Bollywood?

No, not right at this moment. But even if I do, I am not going to leave working in Telugu films. I would also love to work in Malayalam movies. I too have Hollywood dreams.

What are the perks of being an actor?

The unconditional love and respect that the audiences shower me with is what I appreciate the most. It boosts up my confidence level and enables me to perform better.

What are the minuses of being an actor?

The fact that you have to look good all the time can be tiring. No matter how low you are feeling or you are down with a ue, whatever the reason is, being an actor you just cannot afford to look bad. You need to be well turned out, with proper makeup and hairstyle and keep smiling and pretend to look normal even if something terrible has happened to you.

How is your daily routine like?

When I am shooting it is only work for me. But on other days when I am not shooting, I wake up and then I work out for some time. I also love to hang out with my friends.

How do you choose a film?

Both the script and the director play an important role in choosing a film. The story line should be appealing. And along with director, co-stars too play a very important part.

What is your favourite dish?

Dal, chawal, chutney, dosas and begun bhajaa (fried brinjal). al in Bong style).

What do you do in your leisure hours?

I love to cook and it is a kind of stress buster for me. I love to bake and make Indian stuff like tandoori food and dosa and sambar. I like watching horror films and reading select few books.

What is your favourite holiday destination?

I love Bali for its beaches. I like Spain for its historical buildings and structures. In India, I like Kashmir for its scenic beauty. It is truly a paradise on earth.

most importantly passionate about what he is doing in life.

Production Assistant: P.Arjun

Styling: Ashwin Mawle

Location courtesy: Prost Brew Pub, Hyderabad

Photography: Photriya Venky

How do you feel being on the cover of red magazine?

It is a wonderful feeling and this is the second time that I will be on the cover of red magazine. And I must say that it is so much fun and it gives me tremendous happiness to be on the cover.

red | november 2016 | 58

SC PE

M

Your upcoming projects?

‘Appatlo Okadundevadu’, directed

by Sagar Chandra. Here I am not playing a lead role, but it is a very powerful character. It is an interesting movie and I accepted it because the role is very important and different. I play the role of a Naxalite. ‘Ladies Tailor’is another movie that I am working on. It is a typical commercial movie. It is a sequel and veteran director Vamsy is directing it. It is a fun movie where I play a hero’s girl role.

‘Katamrayundu’ is again another movie where I am playing

Who has been your biggest influence?

I look for positivity everywhere.

anasa is the new talk of the town.

The simple and unspoilt beauty truly knows how to conquer the hearts of the audience. She is a brilliant dancer and her big bright eyes, twinkling with passion can launch a hundred ships.

By Lachmi Deb Roy

Sply Beauful

Which movie has been closest to your heart?

‘Mrugashira’, Kannada movie is closest to my heart because I won the best debutant award for it. I played the role of a tribal girl. A lot of hard work went into it.

How comfortable are you in bold scenes?

To be frank, I am not comfortable doing steamy scenes and I prefer to stay away from it. When the remake of the movie ‘Hunter’ was being done, I got a call as they were looking for a woman with hot body and an innocent face. But I refused it since I won’t be able to do it. I can do serious or chirpy and romantic roles.

When is it that you decided to become an actor?

I love to dance and I was a good dancer in school. I used to take part in all the cultural functions of my school. I took part in a reality show in Vijaywada after my 12th standard exam. Omkar who is a director spotted me and asked for video clips. He said that they were looking for a fresh talent and he was the first person to notice my acting potential.

‘mardalu’ to Pavan Kalyan. Here I play a chirpy role which comes very naturally to me.

How do you define yourself?

I like to do roles which I can relate to. I give my 100% to whatever I do.

Any Bollywood dreams?

I don’t think so. I love to make a mark in Tamil and Telugu films.

One director you would like to work with in the future?

I would love to work with Gautam Vasudev Menon. I can relate to his movies and do that kind of roles with ease and comfort.

What are the negative points?

There is no fixed time. When you are shooting you have to wait for long hours for your turn and there are months when you have to go without work and that can get frustrating. Then the pressure from the people around you who keep on pestering you about your next move can be very annoying.

There are highs and lows and that can be very depressing at time.

What are the perks you enjoy?

Love, recognition and admiration that I get from my audience.

How is it that you actually choose a film?

Being new to the industry, I do not have much of a choice to pick up a script. I make the best out of what comes my way. But I enjoy doing films which the entire family can sit together and watch. I am just not interested in instant fame.

Production Assistant: P.Arjun

Styling: Gauri Naidu

Location: Kavanah & Avasa Hotels

Photography: Shakti Smaran

What is your idea of a dream man?

He should be very supportive. But one thing is for sure, I want to get married into a big family as I love the idea of the entire family pampering me and making me feel special. I don’t want to work after marriage as I don’t want to miss out on the fun of married life and spending good quality time with my kids. A man who can give me all this, is going to be the ideal match for me.

What do you do in your free hours?

I take care of my grandparent’s business. I am pursuing English literature, so a lot of time goes into these pursuits. I am fond of dancing, playing football and gardening.

What is your idea of happiness?

I like to spend time with a bunch of good friends and that is what makes me happy. I try to find happiness in simple things of life, like a dinner with my entire family.

Tell us about your family background I am a Telugu girl, born and brought up in Chennai. My parents are professors in IIT. They were hesitant about my joining this industry & were not even comfortable in me participating in the reality show. But since I made up my mind nobody could actually stop me.

By V. Sarada

DRUV, the Music Star

On Vizag connect...

Vizag and I have a rather old connection. My grandfather was born here and had gone to school and college from here. I recently learned that my great grandfather was the first chief of the Vishakapatnam port. I feel honoured to walk through the city and sense the legacy. To perform here is rather special. I come as a musician and as a member of the Visvanath family. It feels a little prophetic in a way! Rather than just picking up something for the city, I'm far more interested in what stories lie behind its streets.

I hope I can give back to the city with a performance to remember.

Starting his musical journey at the age of 7, Dhruv Visvanath, a multi instrumentalist, composer, singer, songwriter and producer, came a long way in less than two decades. Very few people know his connection with Vizag, the city that was enthralled by his percussive style of playing. Naturally, his affinity to Vizag set the tone of the interview .....

SC PE

On Dhruv Visvanath and Trio...

It was a 4 piece outfit geared towards writing music that was far more upbeat and energetic. I drew

Define music...

Haha! This is like an exam question. Music is rather hard to define. For a long time it felt therapeutic to me and writing songs helped me cope with the loss of my father. It's a way to tell interesting stories. If you rush yourself to create a piece of music you always fall short. It's a really good test of patience and character and an authentic representation of what makes us human. I've never felt closer to my surroundings than when writing a piece of music.

I feel honoured to be mentioned

by Acoustic Guitar Magazine, USA in their list of guitarist. It feels like a major milestone in what I hope is a very long career.

I was surprised to see that I was the only Indian on the list, knowing what the country has in store when it comes to musicians. I hope to use this as a

On being named as one of the Great Guitarists Under 30.....

inspiration from 80s rock bands and musicians when writing the music here. I've been travelling alone a lot and do miss playing with the band! I perform with Ashwin Nayar on the Guitar, Amar Pandey on the Bass, and Ishaan Gandhi on the drums.

Unforgettable incident ...

A man once shouted "Marry me!" from the audience. I could only respond with "I'm sorry but you're not my type!"

On rapport with audience...

I don't want to give away too much, but the audience is just as much a part of the performance as I am! It's always good to improvise and throw in something new, and I always play a different set!

On future plans...

I'm filming a video diary and hope to release in the coming months.

On acceptance...

Believe in yourself and that you make good music, the acceptance follows. Stick to the music. It really screams out to you!

On conceptualising themes ...

The concept comes well after I have actually written the piece. I often ask my audiences to attach their own stories to the music and go from there. I am attracted to the stars and the ocean. I find the vastness of the two to be fascinating and equally eerie. We know very little of what lies beyond the sky, and are uncertain about what lies beneath the ocean.

On genre of music...

I'm a huge fan of Metal and Hard Rock.

I find that the music there has far more oomph and variety in the way that the guitar sounds and it provides me with plenty of inspiration for ideas and techniques. I have started listening to a lot of contemporary jazz and hip hop. They have taught me a lot about what musicians call "The Pocket", that perfect spot where the rhythm and melody are good.

stepping stone in the creative career!

Women age 45 to 54 should get mammograms every year.

Women 55 and older should switch to mammograms every 2 years.

*

*

We should know the benefits, limitations, and potential harms linked to cancer screening. They should also be familiar with how their breasts normally look and feel. If one finds any change in the shape, it is advisable to report it to a health care provider.

Screening should continue as long as one is in good health and is expected to live at least 10 more years.

Women ages 40 to 44 should have the choice to start annual breast cancer screening, must undergo mammograms.

*

It can occur at any age, but the risk goes up as one gets older. Because of certain factors, some may have a greater chance of getting it than others. But every woman should know about it and what can be done to prevent it.

Breast cancer

ome of the cancers that most often affect women are breast, colon, endometrial, lung, cervical, skin, and ovarian cancers. Knowing about them, preventive steps and early detection help save lives. But here we talk of two most common cancers - breast and cervix.

S

wellness

Redness or scaling of nipple or breast skin

•

Cervical cancer It occurs in women who have had the human papilloma virus (HPV), which is passed during sex. It is likely in women

All breast lumps aren't cancer.

Nipple discharge

Nipples that turn inward

• •

Skin dimpling or puckering

•

Changes that are suspicious

Women over age 65 who have had regular testing in the past 10 years with normal results need not be tested. Once testing is stopped, it should not be started again. Women with a history of a serious cervical pre-cancer should continue to be tested for at least 20 years after that

Women between the ages of 30 and 65 should have a Pap test plus an HPV test (called ‘cotesting’) done once in every five years.

•

•

Women between ages 21 and 29 should have a Pap test done every three years.

Testing should start at age 21, not before that.

•

•

Common but Curable

Some women are at high risk because of the family history, a genetic tendency or for certain other factors and they should be screened going through MRIs, along with mammograms. The number of such women is small. They must take the doc’s advice for the best screening plan.

•

Reasons for getting a Pap Smear The human papillomavirus (HPV) is a virus that causes warts. There are over 100

Dr. I. Vani, Consultant Obstetrician & Gynecologist, Lotus Hospital for Women and Children

different types of HPV. Nearly 40 of them that are sexually transmitted. The primary A woman who has had a causes of cervical cancer are hysterectomy (removal of HPV types 16 and 18. Even her uterus and her cervix) though a Pap smear doesn’t for reasons not related to test for HPV, it identifies cervical cancer and who cellular changes caused has no history of cervical by the virus. cancer or serious Symptoms pre-cancer should not be tested. * Between-Period Bleeding A woman who has been vaccinated against HPV * Bleeding after should still follow the menopause . screening for her age Vaccination group. Some women – because of their history – The HPV vaccine prevents infection by the HPV types may need to be tested more often. They should responsible for most cervical cancers. All HPV vaccines are talk to a health care extremely effective provider giving the details of their history.

diagnosis, even if testing continues past age 65.

A Pap smear (also called a Pap test), named after Georgios Papanikolaou, the doctor who developed it, is a screening procedure. It tests for either precancerous or cancerous cells on the cervix, the opening of the uterus.

During the procedure, cells from cervix are scraped away and then examined for abnormal growth.

A Pap test can find changes in the cervix that can be treated before they become cancerous. It helps in early detection of the malady which • is curable. The American Cancer Society recommends the following:

who smoke tobacco, have HIV or AIDS, poor nutrition and who do not get regular Pap tests.

ARIES

Lucky for you: Mauve, 24

Apr 20 –May 20 There are changes in the working direction. How significant these are, is a different issue. Roll up your sleeves and get your hands dirty a little bit. There are large‐scale problems. It is important not to wave off new opportunities and not get stuck in the quagmire of old and outdated trends. The love front will turn out to be calm in the full sense of this word. In terms of personal relationships, everything will be balanced and you will not have to resort to any complex multi‐step combinations to achieve results.

Taurus

Lucky for you: Red, 14

It is a calm and relaxed time. The working direction will be stable, though not necessarily successful. Love life appears unambiguous. You restore your sensually‐emotional integrity and stop crying into your pillow over a broken heart.

Serious changes will be awaiting you, but without your active participation, none of the processes will be completed or manifest themselves in the proper degree. Do not forget about the family members, but focus on your friends, they will pull you out of the depths of emotional degradation and total depression.

Mar 21‐ Apr 19

Forecast

VIRGO

It may not be as productive as hoped. The month will peck you mercilessly, giving you a real life lesson. Those who are guided by honour and dignity will be in the winning situation.

As for the love life, you will be free to choose the action plan as those plans will not depend on external factors. You will have more empathy for people.

Be careful and cautious, being impulsive is unacceptable. Love life will be at its best.

Aug 23 – Sep 22

Lucky for you: Indigo, 27

CANCER

Lucky for you: Pink, 19

It may appear turbulent, but it clearly is a positive and promising time. In business and entrepreneurship, you will be able to achieve the desired results. It is a different thing that you may face problems with colleagues. Don’t give in to emotions and momentary impulses. The current phase will be incredibly fascinating and will teach you many important things. In personal relations the fate throws challenges at you, you should take them without hesitation and move forward. Be as honest and open as possible and follow your instincts.

LEO

Though not stable, it is a bright and productive period in the working and financial direction. You will reach that high moment. So finetune and focus on priorities. Now the dynamics of the working area will be particularly high. The more openly you act, the more quickly you reach the desired goals. In personal relationships, do not worry if something doesn't go the way you want it. In relationship with your family and friends you need to display maximum candour and care.

Lucky for you: Cream, 25

GEMINI

It will be dynamic though not a positive phase.

Mobilize your resources and don't bite more than you can chew. You will be able to implement projects, but with a few caveats. It is important to work with a team. In terms of personal relationships, it may turn out to be a quiet time. Pay attention to the way things work in your family. Don’t cut yourself off from those who want to help you. Personal relationships may experience a kind of crisis now.

Lucky for you: Green, 27

Lucky for you: Magenta, 22

Oct 23 ‐ Nov 21 You will be successful in whatever you do. If you are an employee, try not to overreact with subordinates.

Give them the space and the freedom to work and they will give their best.

Do not forget that the interpersonal relations affect team operations. Your love life will not be rocking. It is time be sensitive towards others emotions.

Stop stressing yourself over trivia and at the same time, be sensitive towards others emotions. Soon everything will fall in place.

SCORPIO

Lucky for you: Red, 15

Sep 23 ‐ Oct 22 Work will not go the way you want. Behave like a meek lamb because any action can attract the attention of your enemies and you will not be in a position to handle them.

But towards the end of the month, you will be in a position to sail through all your problems. In your love life, it is time to respond to circumstances. Do not worry about your past mistakes. Your loved ones will be there to support you.

LIBRA

Dec 22‐ Jan 19 If you are self‐employed beware your opponents are active and their activities are directed against you. Remember you should learn to deal with such situations. You will learn to handle such people with your smartness and confidence.

Focus on your present, but take time to sit and look back.

Be careful with new contacts and do not be in a hurry to make a new relationship.

Lucky for you: Blue, 18

CAPRICORN

SAGITTARIUS

Lucky for you: Grey, 21

Feb 19 – Mar 20 In the sphere of work it may not be too dynamic, but uniquely effective. No out of the ordinary events are expected. Under no circumstances waste your time; if you have a spare moment, use it to receive some bonus. Love life will be much more balanced and harmonious in comparison to the situation in the field of finance and business. You will not have to take any major decisions. It is time to just concentrate on your feelings and go with the flow.

PISCES

Jan 20‐ Feb 18 It is going to be an incredibly bright and active time, so work hard.

Now people will try to pull you into some backroom intrigues. If you decide to play, you have to choose a side and there is no doubt that this fact will change your life quite drastically. Remain neutral, and let go some potential bonuses. The love life will burn with special colours unseen until now. Look at the world from a different perspective. Try to objectively evaluate your relationship.

Lucky for you: Brown, 16

AQUARIUS

Nov 22‐ Dec 21 Try not to be biased in any decision you take and at the same time be careful with the people around you.

Do not rush when it comes to decision making. The reality of the situation is that we are only as free as we allow ourselves to be. In terms of love, you will pass through a series of events that are critical. Be open to others’ suggestion. The truth is not born in dispute and you can reach it only by improving and constantly evolving yourself.

Lucky for you: Green, 26

columns have experts talking of what evils technology brings to

ups and glitches. Yet weddings are great fun and are occasions to celebrate– whether they are big fat ones or modest ones. Moreover,

Note this historic step! In a major

assault on black money, fake

currency and corruption, our

Prime Minister Narendra Modi

wedding in our Main Feature.

To complement the feature, we included a dedicated column Charm to discuss make-up, the most important aspect of wedding.

money is stashed away in the form

of Rs.500 and Rs.1000 notes which

are now reduced to garbage.

Congratulations Mr. PM. This

certainly is a bold step, taken on our

and issues related to them to mark the Children’s Day. Our Kiddos

Coming to this edition, no wedding

is ever complete without some goof

We turned our focus on children

contribute to the success of a

a cash economy. Most of the black

path to become a Super Power.

industry. They tell us how they

the country, which is predominantly

in the coming days. We have talked

President Pranab Mukherjee and all

business which is growing into an

as a lot of muhurtams are lined up

queues in front of the ATM centres.

annul the unaccounted money in

becomes all the more relevant now

was reflected in the serpentine

cities, who are dabbling in this new

information about these vendors

by surprise and the panic reaction

to entrepreneurs from both the

to organising a wedding. Right

them invalid. The nation was taken

political parties have lauded the

make our lives easy, when it comes

move as a very effective measure to

nowadays we have vendors who

announced demonetisation of

Rs.1,000 and Rs.500 notes, making

Chandra Mouli Tippala, Publisher

I remain and say bye for now.

Presenting you with a rich fare,

actor. Check out.

guitarist and Manasa, an budding

genres- Druv Visvanath- ace

Scope belonging to different

We have two shooting stars in

splendid. Listen to the HIT- girl.

journey which has been smooth and

brains in the Haute. She talks of her

beauty and amazes us with her

Tripathy dazzles our cover with her

New star on the block Lavanya

ward them off.

the children and how we can

FIGHTING CORRUPTION IS NOT JUST GOOD GOVERNANCE. IT'S SELF-DEFENSE. IT’S PATRIOTISM.

“

PUBLISHER’S NOTE