SEEMA JULY ISSUE

INSIDE

THE SEEMA SUMMER HOLIDAY GUIDE

PLUS

MICROGREEN MANIA A DESI PICNIC FEAST

THE PROMISE OF COTTAGECORE

E L B A N I A T SUS c

Chi

Remember the last time your family visited the forest? It’s a place of wonder and imagination for the whole family—where stories come to life. And it’s closer than you think. Sounds like it’s time to plan your next visit. Make the forest part of your story today at a local park near you or find one at DiscoverTheForest.org.

Radhika Swarup page 10

3 Mocktails to beat the heat page 58

Beachwear tips page 28

5

CONTRIBUTORS BEYOND LIMITS

PIONEERS

6

‘Nothing Will Change

if We Remain Silent’

10 ‘Cascading Events

and People’s Anger Have

Inspired My Writing’

14 Caring for the Skin –

and the Community

16 Rolling With the Punches

STYLE

28 Dressing for the Beach

FEATURES

32 Cottagecore Aesthetic

in Home Décor

36 Eri Silk: Peace

and Sustainability

HOROSCOPE

63 Forecast With Farzana

SEEMA RECOMMENDS

40 The Seema Summer

Holiday Guide

FOOD

ON THE COVER

Sustainable Chic

44 Big Punch in a Small Package 48 Bring People Together

with a Luxury Grill Table

20

50 10 Ice Cream Flavors to

Try Before You Die

54 A Desi Picnic Feast 58 3 Mocktails to Beat

the Heat

WELLNESS

61 Naps and the Healthy Human

PHOTO CREDIT: NELA KEKIC

4

CONTENTS

MEET OUR

CONTRIBUTORS FOUNDER AND EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

SEEMA KUMAR CREATIVE DIRECTOR

SAJID MOINUDDIN

SHARE/ LIKE/ TWEET/ US ON

DESIGN

HB DESIGN EDITORIAL COORDINATOR

ROHINI KAPUR EDITORIAL ASSOCIATE

AHAD SANWARI WRITERS @seemanetwork

@seemanetworks

@seemanetwork

ALPANA VARMA SHARMISTHA CHAUDHURI BINDU GOPAL RAO RASHMI GOPAL RAO JORDANA WEISS JASWANT LALWANI CAMILLE BERRY MARIE ABENDROTH ALEXANDER HARRIS MEENA AZZOLLINI FARZANA SURI BRAND PARTNERSHIPS, DEVELOPMENT AND STRATEGY

ANJALI MANIAM

SEEMA™ ISSUE 007 | JULY 2021 EMPOWERING SOUTH ASIAN WOMEN GLOBALLY SEEMA KUMAR, FOUNDER

COPYRIGHT © 2021 SEEMA, JAYARAM, LLC SEEMA.COM

PUBLISHED AT P.O. BOX 814, PENNINGTON, NJ 08534

ON THE COVER:

MODEL: ELLA DARR FOR AYSHA NY (PAGE 20).

PHOTO CREDIT: NELA KEKIC

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EDIT | SEEMA

GOING

BEYOND LIMITS Beat the heat, the SEEMA way

T

he dog days of summer are here.

The oppressive weather between July 3 and August 11 in the northern hemisphere is not only too hot for dogs, it can sap us human beings, not to mention our plants and other pets.

The Romans believed the intense heat is emanated by the star Sirius, in the constellation Canis Major, or the Greater Dog, when it is too close to the sun. But the torrid heat is actually a result of the Earth’s northern hemisphere being titled towards the sun at the time, thus taking the full brunt of its energy. Regardless, the fact remains that these are the hottest days of the year, and a time to genuinely cool down. This means taking a break from strenuous physical activity, especially outdoors, eating nourishing, hydrating foods, wearing lighter clothing that help you lose heat, and generally increasing water intake. It is also time to cut the hectic pace of work and, as beaches open up, head for the shore.

Our summer issue is chock full of ideas on ways to chill out. We feature a collection

of dresses and light outfits to have you feel and look cooler as you step away from your Zoom meeting to walk the streets. We also bring you ideas on the best beachwear for South Asian body types. Even if you are not heading to a cottage by the beach, you can bring the beach and outdoors to your home with our tips on how to jump on the latest decor trend, “cottagecore.”

On the food front, we feature microgreens, which provide a powerful nutrient boost to salads, and ideas for a desi picnic to plan, complete with recipes and tips. We list 10 ice cream flavors you really need to try before you die! And what summer would be complete without some barbecue and grilling. We bring you the concept of the luxury grilling table that your friends can gather around, each grilling his or her own food. Plus, we show you how to mix refreshing summer cocktails to cool you down during a heat wave. We should not forget the pleasures of the summer siesta. Research has repeatedly shown that a short nap can be good for your health – and your brain.

Finally, we bring you the SEEMA Holiday Guide — our editors’ top picks for destinations in the US, post-pandemic. So sit back and relax and keep the SEEMA magazine with you as a trusty companion while you head for the beach.

SEEMA KUMAR, FOUNDER

JULY 2021 | SEEMA.COM | 5

PHOTO CREDIT: LINDA HOSEK

Author Devi Laskar signing a copy of The Atlas of Reds and Blues 6 | SEEMA.COM | JULY 2021

PIONEER | SEEMA

‘NOTHING WILL CHANGE IF WE REMAIN SILENT’ Devi Laskar discusses her literary work – and the influence racism and misogyny played on it ALPANA VARMA

W

riter, artist, photographer, poet, former newspaper reporter, Devi Laskar indeed wears many hats and, with a pen as mighty as hers, one may well call her activist, too.

Through her work, she aims to and succeeds in initiating change and improve the troubled race relations prevailing in this country. She first made waves with her debut novel, “The Atlas of Reds and Blues,” published in 2019.

“There can be no change without candid conversation – I hope that my novel sparks conversations, about racism and misogyny,” says Laskar “Racism is a touchy subject and it’s hard to have a conversation without someone feeling attacked and getting defensive.

My hope is to write a book where everyone could

Author Devi Laskar’s latest novel, The Atlas of Reds and Blues JULY 2021 | SEEMA.COM | 7

PIONEER | SEEMA

PHOTO CREDIT: ANJINI LASKAR

stand next to the narrator and experience what it is like to be peppered with questions like, ‘Where are you from? But where are you originally from?’”

The book won the Asian Pacific American Award for Literature and the Crook’s Corner Book Prize. It was selected by the Georgia Center for the Book “as a book all Georgians should read.” It was long-listed for the DSC Prize in South Asian literature and also for the Golden Poppy Awards presented by the California Independent Booksellers Alliance and a finalist for the Northern California Book Award in Fiction. It was also named by The Washington Post as one of the best books of 2019. It also won praise in Time magazine, the Guardian, The San Francisco Chronicle, among others.

Laskar’s work has also been nominated for a Pushcart Prize and Best of the Net. Finishing Line Press published two of her poetry chapbooks, “Gas & Food, No Lodging” and “Anastasia Maps.”

Her second novel, “Circa 22,” is slated to appear in 2022. Laskar shares glimpses of it as she says, “Set in North Carolina, “Circa” is written in a composite style. I used to be a reporter. I did know some young Indian American ladies who just went missing, who ran away from home.

It is ultimately uplifting, although I am not one for happy endings.”

Describing it as a labor of love, Laskar

“WHEN YOU READ AND YOUR TONGUE TRIPS, IT’S AN INDICATION THAT IT’S A BAD WORD CHOICE. ALSO, WHEN THE THOUGHTS ARE OUT OF ORDER, READING ALOUD HELPS TO REARRANGE CERTAIN PASSAGES” 8 | SEEMA.COM | JULY 2021

“RATHER THAN LOOKING BACK, I PREFERRED TO STAY IN THE PRESENT AND JUST MADE THE CHARACTERS YOUNGER” says the story started long time ago when she was in grad school in New York, and she is glad it is finally seeing light of day.

“The bulk of the work is in flashback,” she says. “Rather than looking back, I preferred to stay in the present and just made the characters younger.” Circa, she reminds me, is a word used most often by historians and that is one of the reasons she is using it.

A native of Chapel Hill, North Carolina, Laskar holds an MFA in Creative Writing from Columbia University, a master’s degree in South Asian studies from the University of Illinois at UrbanaChampaign, and a bachelor’s in English and journalism, from University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. “I started off as a poet, composing my first poem at age 9,” she says. Laskar credits a wonderful teacher for encouraging her to write. She says she even mentioned Mrs. Heath in her debut novel and was able to get her to attend the award ceremony.

Both her books were written years ago.

Then she just put them aside to focus on an online writing workshop that she joined at nanowrimo.org. It was then, in 2010, that her life suffered a big jolt. Her home in suburban Atlanta where she lived with her husband and three daughters, was raided at gunpoint by the police following suspicions about her husband.

Many of her belongings were taken away, including her laptop with all her written work, which included the novels on the

verge of submission for publication.

Laskar remains scarred by what she sees as racial profiling and prejudice.

The charges against her husband were dismissed six years later but she is yet to get back her belongings.

After the incident, she found herself unable to write. On the suggestion of a good friend, she pursued her love for photography, taking a picture every day and putting a caption to it. By 2012 her poetry came back by 2014, her prose. She then began reimagining the book that became “The Atlas of Reds and Blues.”

“I used tools that came out from school,” she says. Her teacher Lucille Clifton encouraged her to read aloud everything she wrote. “When you read and your tongue trips, it’s an indication that it’s a bad word choice. Also, when the thoughts are out of order, reading aloud helps to rearrange certain passages.” Laskar is quite clear that she does not write to feel better as “nothing will ever make me feel better. It is just a relief that I can write.”

Discrimination and biases against Asian Americans and police brutality are issues she strives to put the spotlight on, dismissing the “model minority” myth, whereby Asians are expected to excel at studies, become doctors, and then keep quiet and stay invisible. The lack of acceptance as Americans, even of those born and raised in this country, as she is, is hard to digest. She feels her daughters today face the same bullying that she did many years ago. “Nothing will change if we remain silent,” she says.

As the beacon of light, democracy, freedom and equality, a model for the rest of the world, the United States has a big responsibility, Laskar says. And she thinks it needs to mend.

JULY 2021 | SEEMA.COM | 9

PIONEER | SEEMA

‘Cascading Events and People’s Anger Have Inspired My Writing’ SHARMISTHA CHAUDHURI

“I

saw last night as a meeting between old friends. That you considered my conduct overfamiliar fills me with endless regret.”

A cryptic note found by estranged sisters Maya and Siya in their late reclusive mother’s papers in their dilapidated Delhi home sets Radhika Swarup’s book, “Civil Lines,” in motion. The portrayal of a family saga set amidst the backdrop of the global #MeToo movement, the book examines complex relationships, touches upon social issues, and takes the reader on an empowering journey with the Sharma sisters.

In a conversation with SEEMA, Swarup chats about her second book, a career change, the inspiring house, #MeToo, and everything in between. (The interview has been edited for consistency, clarity and flow.)

You’ve grown up in different parts of the world…

I have had an interesting upbringing. It allowed me to see different cultures and countries, see that it isn’t much different. Parents are still worried about their kids, you take pride in your culture no matter where 10 | SEEMA.COM | JULY 2021

PIONEER | SEEMA

IF YOU LOOK AT THE PANDEMIC, PEOPLE WHO CAN SIT AT HOME AND WORK ARE NOT SUFFERING AS MUCH AS THOSE WHO ARE COMING FACE-TOFACE WITH THE DISEASE. IT’S BEYOND THE POWER IMBALANCE BETWEEN MAN AND WOMAN you are, and people generally are kind and open to those who are curious about them.

Maybe it allowed me to see India as well, partly from an outsider’s perspective. I was a constant returner and that has been formative for me as a writer.

Are you a keen observer of society, then?

Yeah, I think it makes me odd as a first child. Normally the first born has all the attention… I see that with my kids.

My daughter, who is younger, is more observant. I think the second child experiences different parents, maybe more tired parents. They see the older child succeeding or failing, and learning from their mistakes. I think what travel has given me is a second-child perspective.

It has allowed me the ability to view and observe.

Tell us about your journey from finance to writing…

That’s quite a well-trodden path, right?

Turning one’s back on finance and then turn to writing! But, my father has always written, so it is in my blood. As for my upbringing, there were always lots and lots of books. My father would always tell me to pay attention to the writing in them.

An old house you visited in Delhi inspired your second book. Did the characters develop first, or was it always the house that led to the characters?

I think the house is an extension of the family. People talk of houses having auras. I have never believed it. But, this one house… I did not think the house in particular was a living sentient thing but I got a sense of potential left unfulfilled from the inhabitants, and then by extension from the house itself. It was a lovely house but in disrepair. Maybe the people there have had really fulfilling lives, but it was a feeling I got. A sense of defeatism, fatalism… and in that sense it felt palpable.

I find it hard to divorce the inhabitants [characters] from the house.

Can you describe the relationship between the estranged sisters and how it changes?

Maya and Siya are chalk and cheese.

Their attitudes and approaches to life are quite different. I think this whole sense of destiny that probably was unintentionally bequeathed to them has propelled them forward… Though they’ve gone on different paths, the shared cultural inheritance has been part of their upbringing and it feeds into their relationship.

Do you identify with any of the characters?

It would be Saloni (the copy editor of “The Satirist,” the magazine started by their mother and relaunched by the sisters). I think I see a bit of me in her. In terms of the sisters, I am not like Maya. The interactions with the inhabitants of the house really intrigued me, perplexed me, inspired me, frustrated me—all in equal measure. I found that I had to get under Maya’s skin, walk a mile in her shoes. The person I am, would never have been able to do that—be so dependent on one parent for their life’s blood as it were. The fact that I am so different drew me to Maya.

On #MeToo. I read a piece where you said certain friends on finding out about the book’s topic just went, ‘oh, okay,’ and that was it.

The reaction certain friends had hearkened back to how polarized everything is now, be it religion, politics, identity. We’ve all been seeing #MeToo starting in Hollywood, and then different countries having their own #MeToo movements… So, it’s not just an Indian thing, not just 2016, or Jyoti Singh [who was gangraped and killed in New Delhi in 2012].

No matter how cocooned you are, it is always at the edge of possibility and that is not okay.

The cascading events and people’s anger have inspired and fed into my writing. Also, it is a look at inequality. If you look at the pandemic, people who can sit at home and work are not suffering as much as those who are coming face-to-face with the disease. It’s beyond the power imbalance between man and woman; it is wider in society, between haves and have nots. So, while “Civil Lines” is a very obviously an Indian #MeToo novel, it tries to shine light on societal outcomes and injustices.

You’ve used the line ‘What’s the worst that could happen’ at many turning points…

It is very much the ethos of egging your child on, [saying], “Come on, things will be fine.” I find myself doing that with my kids. There is usually always a silver lining in most situations. In the case of Maya, because of how cloistered she was, she was not a risk-taker.

Where we leave the book, in terms of the outcome for “The Satirist” and the sisters’ financial future, it is looking a bit uncertain. But I would call what they have built a resounding success, and validation for them in their enterprise to tell their mother’s story. ‘What’s the worst that could happen?’ has been pretty good.

How has the pandemic treated you?

The first three months were ridiculous. I had picked up a novella but was unable to concentrate to make it past the first line. But once things settled down, I was able to establish a routine. For a few months now, I am really cherishing being able to go out and interact with people.

Do you have a writing schedule?

I am an ex-banker and until very recently had very young kids and I was sleep-deprived. I would find myself waking up really early to write. Now that the kids are older, in terms of a writing day, I have a lot more time but I do feel my best work is done early in the mornings when the house is quiet.

What is your next project?

An uplifting set of short stories, a portrait of a community of the street I partly grew up in Delhi and the neighboring one. I am imagining the lives of the people living there during the first wave. I have not been back in Delhi since March 2019 but it was cathartic writing the stories. It is lighthearted, which was required by the emotional toll the pandemic has levied on us.

JULY 2021 | SEEMA.COM | 13

PIONEER | SEEMA

Caring for the skin – and the community

Founders Pooja Karegoudar and Tanushree Ishani Das

BodyCafé embodies the spirit of sustainability, with its range of cruelty-free and vegan skin care products

B

odyCafé is a womenled business run by Pooja Karegoudar and Tanushree Ishani Das, who have come up with skin care products infused with all-natural fragrances – relying on

14 | SEEMA.COM | JULY 2021

BINDU GOPAL RAO Ayurveda, healing aromatherapy, and 100% essential oils.

Chance Encounter Karegoudar, who took on a 9 to 5 job after earning her B.Tech in instrumentation technology, soon

realized that she relied more on her creativity than her corporate chops. She started CircleTheDate. in, an event management company, and Ovenly.in, a boutique homebaking venture.

Das did a stint with Goldman

Au Natural The duo realized most people are price-sensitive and do not have access to off-the-shelf products that offer them labor-intensive ancient remedies.

They said that people dedicate a ‘self-care Sunday’ to make these combinations at home – which is not sustainable. At BodyCafé, these products carefully but provided in an affordable packed product.

The current product range is

Product range from BodyCafé

PEOPLE DEDICATE A ‘SELF-CARE SUNDAY’ TO MAKE THESE COMBINATIONS AT HOME – WHICH IS NOT SUSTAINABLE extensive, with products for daily grooming, wellness, home care, child care and pet care available.

Under the daily grooming section there are products for facial care, body care and hair care. These products are further subclassified as the lifestyle range for everyday use, and the spa and luxury range to let people themselves to a revitalizing spa experience.

They also provide bespoke hampers and traveling kits of their products.

Making a Difference The BodyCafé USP is that the

products infused with aromas give a sense of emotional well-being and ensure the highest standards of personal grooming.

They aim to empower Indian farmers – the real growers and strongly focus on communitygrown products. For instance, they get Lakadong Turmeric from Padma Shri winner Trinity Saioo, the “Turmeric Lady of India,” who is credited with spearheading women-led turmeric farming in the Indian northeast, empowering over 800 women farmers. BodyCafé has bespoke hampers for festivals like Diwali, New Year and Christmas.

Once the partners decided to pay homage to Indian spices and introduced Star Anise Cinnamon and Peppermint & Patchouli bathing bars. Another season, they launched a spa range based on evergreen cocktail flavors such as Pina Colada and Watermelon Margarita. The Christmas collection had a Pumpkin Spice body wash, a Cotton Candy Bath Cream, and a Gingerbread face and body scrub, among other things.

Overcoming Challenges While Karegoudar and Das have a lot of support from their families, even buying the products at the full selling price, the duo admits that they have faced multiple challenges.

They point out that working with a risk-averse population and the narrowness of their financial bandwidth keeps the business on the edge. They admit there is a constant threat to work-life balance, as they defy social expectations as women entrepreneurs to thrive without any launchpads or godfathers.

They are looking ahead at having a robust online presence and, later, an offline presence in in India . They are also launching in the Middle East and have plans to expand to other countries.

JULY 2021 | SEEMA.COM | 15

ALL PHOTOS CREDIT: BODYCAFÉ

Sachs before she moved to London to earn a master’s degree in organizational psychiatry and psychology at King’s College, London. She moved back to India, to become country head at a leading startup. Karegoudar was Das’s wedding planner – and that is where things really got going.

According to the duo, people are all stuck in an endless battle of us versus stress, dealing with simmering to-do lists through the day – all until something gives. They concluded that people wanted healthy lifestyles, and could do with a little support to help them invest in themselves.

Their idea was to provide that help with BodyCafé.

16 | SEEMA.COM | JULY 2021

ALL PHOTOS CREDIT: BARO MARKET

Rolling WITH THE Punches

The multifaceted Srila Chatterjee markets art – and thus keeps alive a variety of traditions Cushions at Baro Market

RASHMI GOPAL RAO

S

rila Chatterjee is a woman who dons many hats. As a producer who helmed Highlight Films for several years, she has had a successful career in cinema, fashion, production and set design. Apart from curating the Kala Ghoda Arts Festival in its early years, she co-founded blueFROG -the eclectic music space in Bombay. Her unique furniture and craft-based concept store Baro in Mumbai was known for its iconic brand value. That was where she curated original and exhilarating art experiences. In the new pandemicstricken world, she has taken all her curated treasures – that cover the gamut of home, fashion, art, gifting and beyond – online on her Baro Market.

Tell us about your early days, education and first inspiration(s) into art and design.

I grew up in Calcutta [Kolkata] surrounded by a very creative spirit.

My father was an architect and my mother was a specialist in teaching methods for children. My school, Loreto House, always taught me to think out of the box. With inspiration

galore in Calcutta, art was intrinsic in my life, right from the craft we did at home to the cards we made for people, to the way the table was dressed, and the innovative jewelry we wore.

How did you venture into film production and what kept you inspired to stay there for 25 years?

I moved to Bombay for my MBA. Later I met Mahesh [Mathai, her husband], who had his own production company. I was offered [the chance] to take over the production in November 1989. Since Highlight Films was the gold standard in the advertising business, I took up the offer. I was always … setting the bar higher at a time when facilities were very limited.

Tell us about the transition from films to furniture design and the genesis of Baro. How was it different from other stores?

I met Siddharth Sirohi when I was posted on an assignment in Udaipur.

He loved designing furniture and knew I was very interested in Models display apparel sold at the market design and had worked on interiors JULY 2021 | SEEMA.COM | 17

PIONEER | SEEMA

Serveware by Dragonfly

“OUR BELIEF IN EQUITABILITY WAS CLEAR IN ALL WE DID, AND OUR PRODUCTS ALWAYS CHAMPIONED A LOCAL-GLOBAL DESIGN EVEN BEFORE THE TERM WAS FASHIONABLE” Contemporary art also finds a niche at the market

Pabuji Ki Phad, a religious scroll painting of folk deities 18 | SEEMA.COM | JULY 2021

Decorative radio sets offer a retro feel

for friends. So we decided to experiment in the Highlight office and [we] started Highlight Living.

That experiment turned out to be successful and we decided to take it further – and Baro was born.

Baro was a very special store that felt more like home. It had a casual, friendly vibe and soon became a community center. We had a big space, and we used it extensively for exhibitions, performances and shows that were almost always open to anyone for free. Our belief in equitability was clear in all we did, and our products always championed a local-global design even before the term was fashionable. Most importantly, we were a place that was always led by stories to tell.

How difficult has the pandemic been and the transition from Baro to Baro Market online?

Baro was a casualty of the pandemic.

We could not afford the rent and had to shut the store and start [an effort] online. The team did everything, from building the website to organizing all support. I don’t think of how difficult or easy transitions are. I’ve always believed the only way to go is forward, so all energies get redirected and the journey moves ahead.

Baro is a platform for Indian art, artists and brands. Tell us more about the kind of art and artists you promote at Baro Market.

Baro Market loves things that come layered with multiple stories such that they become a part of your own story. Everything here is small batch and hand crafted, and you can feel the character of the person who has made it. We love the collaboration of designers and artisans, using age old skills and reinterpreting them in

a contemporary way. We work with people who are proud of their skill, who do not compromise on quality, whose primary objective is not to sell millions, who do things with integrity and who always strive for an equitable world. Pottery from Shanti Niketan, hand carved shola flowers, seasonal, organic food produce, a portfolio of art from masters of ten different art forms and fashion from small, handpicked labels are just some of our unique offerings.

How has the venture supported artists during the pandemic?

We have concluded our Chitrakar Relief Sale where we raised 15 lakhs [Rs 1.5 million, or about $20,500] for our 10 traditional artists, who were deeply affected by the pandemic. We sold their art and gave 100% to the artists.

We recognize how bad this time has been for everyone. We did not have unlimited resources, so we focused on the worst distressed because if we didn’t tide them through this time, these art forms would die.

What are your future plans?

While the future remains uncertain, what we would love is to have Baro Market be available everywhere online, and to keep taking the real experience to as many places as we can through regular, planned popups, because nothing beats the firstperson telling of stories, of the touch and feel.

Any advice for women who want to take an unconventional path in their careers and pursue their dreams?

I would just say, be clear about what you really want to do, and if you are true to yourself, your whole life will move towards making that happen.

Note: Baro market ships internationally. Customers overseas can reach the team on their WhatsApp helpline number +91 9892213907 or email them on info@baromarket.in for assistance. They accept payments through all international cards, bank transfer and PayPal. Website: www.baromarket.in JULY 2021 | SEEMA.COM | 19

COVER STORY | SEEMA

Oversized burnout polka dots give this well-constructed, sophisticated dress a whimsical feel.

Shoes: SJP PHOTO CREDIT: NELA KEKIC

SUSTAINABLE

Chic Fashion designer and founder of

AYSHA NY, Aysha Saeed brings a

unique point of view to fashion, one focused on culture and sustainability.

MODEL: ELLA DARR

SEEMA KUMAR

JULY 2021 | SEEMA.COM | 21

PHOTO CREDIT: JAN GOLDSTOFF

COVER STORY | SEEMA

Aysha Saeed, Designer, AYSHA NY

22 | SEEMA.COM | JULY 2021

orn in Lahore, Pakistan, Aysha Saeed drew on her culture’s practice of getting fashionably dressed for weddings and festivals to influence her clothing line.

But when her family first moved to the United States she struggled to fit in until she found confidence and succor in fashion. She saved money from her allowance and her earnings from a part-time job to buy beautiful clothes.

“I wanted to be the best-dressed person in my entire school,” Saeed says. “So I would walk into school looking really fashionable and chic.

And when you walk in feeling that way your confidence grows … and that changed my life and made me feel comfortable in my own skin. What you put on your body is a powerful tool.”

Thus empowered, Saeed went on to study at famous design houses in Milan and came back to start her new clothing label and her boutique in New York.

AYSHA NY focuses on sustainability and styles that are timeless.

“They will be with you today and five years from now, because these are not clothes that you throw away because they go out of style,” Saeed says. Her new collection mixes geometrical patterns with print and velour and chiffon pants and dresses, and masculine and feminine elements, to give it timeless appeal.

During the lockdown, in collaboration with 10 to 12 other suppliers, AYSHA made beautiful “1-2-3” style kits – with a mask, matching scarf and pair of earrings. That is, everything to be Zoom-ready in an instant and keep her business going during the summer of 2020.

For the Fall 2020 collection, AYSHA launched the “dressing for the now”

collection featuring what women needed for the time being. These were crushed velvet velour jogger pants, called the Only Pant, to denote it was the only pant you needed in your wardrobe to get you through any Zoom meeting.

These are comfortable but stylish unlike yoga pants. It goes well with a matching T-shirt, puff T-shirt, or blousette.

The collection featured velvet fabric in seven jewel tone colors for seven days of the week.

With businesses are starting to open again, Saeed has introduced a “go-withthe-flow” easy breezy collection, because “the time we’re living in has a resort feel to it,” says Saeed. “I want women to wear it in New York and feel like they’re going on vacation, even if they’re not able to travel.”

One favorite is a bloussete – a blouse and a jacket in one. Made with fine chiffon and sporting a zipper front opening, it feels like a jacket, but it is so sheer, you can wear it as a blouse.

Importantly, it can be kept in your closet to wear almost all year long.

Well-made, with a lot of detailing and workmanship, they’re designed to be worn often, and mixed and matched to stay with you for a long period of time.

“Her new collection features airy and breezy print dresses to make you feel comfortable and instantly glamorous.

This is a summer must-have that will take you from a garden lunch to an evening cocktail. Add instant drama and a splash of pop and color with bold, bright Add instant drama and a splash of pop and color with bold, bright stilettos.” According to Saeed’s advice, be careful how you mix prints and geometrical shapes, but, done properly, it can be magical and most summery.

Animal print gives this well-constructed, sophisticated dress a whimsical feel.

The two tiers of ruffles are strategically placed to make the feminine silhouette playful and curvy without making your hips look oversized.

Shoes: Gucci PHOTO CREDIT: NELA KEKIC

This is a style that women of all ages and sizes will want to wear. It can be worn effortlessly with a pair of jeans or athleisure pants, or go for an all-out-glamour look by wearing it over a cocktail dress.

The sports jacket is a modern update to the traditional jacket. Treat it like your favorite post workout jacket or like your favorite cardigan. Wear it with your yoga pants or over a dress.

Your everyday Zoom and going-out top.

The U-shaped neckline makes this tshirt an easy go-to style from desk to dinner.

The warmer tones of this shirt create an all-year look for your closet. It looks best if worn with fitted pants or jeans. It can also be worn with summer shorts, but be sure to tuck it in partially.

Since the blouse provides so much drama, minimal jewelry is best. The pants are a modern take on joggers complete with pleated cargo pockets, snap closures, and metallic embroidery.

MODEL: ELLA DARR , PHOTO CREDIT: JANA SCHUESSLER

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C O L L E C T I O N

COVER STORY | SEEMA

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This cotton long maxi dress dress can take you from afternoon garden party to evening cocktails. It’s a summer must-have!

Shoes: SJP PHOTO CREDIT: NELA KEKIC

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COVER STORY | SEEMA Bring instant glamour to an evening look with this sleeveless maxi dress. Wide shoulder straps can be worn down for a more dramatic look. The stretch belt cinches the waistline for a more contoured fit.

Shoes: Gucci PHOTO CREDIT: NELA KEKIC

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STYLE | SEEMA

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Dressing for the BEACH Choosing the right swimwear for South Asian body types JORDANA WEISS

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ummer is here! As more stores open and we start to return to our normal lives, many South Asian women are waking up the same reality – we all need new bathing suits. With vacations canceled and plans upended in the summer of 2020, there

STYLE | SEEMA

was not much motivation to buy a new bathing suit. Now, with so many of us fully vaccinated, there are more opportunities for pool parties, lake weekends, and even beach vacations.

If you have not purchased a bathing suit in a while, it is easy to forget how complex the task can be. So many of us wind up buying the first nice thing we see simply because shopping for bathing suits can be so tedious.

Instead of getting frustrated at the store, check out these tips to shop online, and try on bathing suits in the comfort of your home.

A QUICK BREAKDOWN OF OUR FAVORITE STYLES

First, let us go over some great options, each otherwise available in a million colors and variations, though learning the basics ones is a good place to start.

Maillot The maillot is a fancy name for the traditional one-piece bathing suit.

Although they have usually been the choice of those seeking more modest options, you can now find maillot bathing suits with sexy cut-outs, flattering ruching, and so much more.

Bikini A traditional two-piece bikini is fantastic for occasions where you’re looking to show off some skin. Although the cheapest options are made with side ties and unflattering triangle tops, there are many amazing bikinis out there that offer lots of coverage and support.

High-Waisted Bikini This is a great choice that offers sneaky peeks of skin but still ensures support where you need it most. If you are 30 | SEEMA.COM | JULY 2021

pear-shaped with larger hips, a high-waisted bikini gives you the option of featuring your bust while giving your backside and hips the coverage they need.

Bandeau

Bandeau bathing suits create a horizontal line across the chest, accentuating a smaller bust. This shape is available in both one-piece and bikini options.

THE RIGHT BATHING SUIT FOR YOUR BODY TYPE

Now that you understand the basics of bathing suit styles, let us discuss finding the one that fits you best.

The secret is to focus on the details of cut and fit, instead of the overall style of the suit. This determines whether a suit is flattering. Just because you have traditionally worn maillots or bikinis does not mean that you are locked into that style. By focusing on the details rather than the shape, it is easier to find suits for your unique proportions.

Here are some more helpful bathing suit style shortcuts.

USE RUCHING TO HIDE YOUR WAIST Both maillots and high-waisted bikinis can look great on curvier women as long as they have a ruched midsection.

A LOW-RISE BOTTOM LENGTHEN A SHORT TORSO To create the illusion of height using your torso, opt for a bikini with a low-cut bottom, preferably paired with a halter top. This helps draw the eye up and away from your shorter midsection.

UNDERWIRE OPTIONS If you have larger breasts, you need a bathing suit with builtin underwire. For even more security, thicker straps help, so you can swim, run, and play with ease.

ELONGATE LEGS WITH HIGH-CUT BATHING SUIT BOTTOMS If you seek to lengthen the visual impact of your legs, opt for a bikini, maillot, or bandeau with a high-cut leg opening. This reveals more skin around the upper hip, creating the illusion of a longer leg.

CREATE THE ILLUSION OF CURVES WITH RUFFLES If you have a more athletic body type and want to suggest a curvier one, look for a suit with ruffles along the bust or hips. This creates the illusion of a fuller figure. Regardless of which bathing suit you pick, there are plenty of options out there that will flatter any body shape and make you feel instantly beach-ready. Just remember to pack your sunscreen!

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FEATURES | SEEMA

A dreamy impromptu cottagecore arrangement 32 | SEEMA.COM | JULY 2021

Cottagecore AESTHETIC IN HOME DÉCOR Offering bucolic beauty, rustic charm and more...

PHOTOS CREDIT: RASHMI GOPAL RAO

RASHMI GOPAL RAO

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quick search of the hashtags “cottagecore” and “cottagecoreaesthetic” on Instagram will reveal that they generate a whopping 1.7 million and 402,000 posts respectively.

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FEATURES | SEEMA A trend that swept the internet and social media last year, cottagecore is all about nostalgia - finding pleasure in simple living, bringing the outdoors in and reliving the days of yore.

According to Wikipedia “Cottagecore is an Internet fashion aesthetic, that celebrates an idealized rural life and developed throughout the 2010s until being named on Tumblr in 2018. It values traditional skills and crafts such as foraging, baking, and pottery.” The pandemic sure taught us the value of reconnecting with nature and of a sustainable way of life, and with the threat still looming large, this is a trend that is sure to stay.

COTTAGECORE IN HOME DÉCOR Touted as one of the hottest trends in 2021, cottagecore in home decor creates a cozy home sanctuary where one can truly unwind. Think plenty of fresh flowers, hand-embroidered napkins, gingham upholstery, a warm fireplace, pressed flowers, earthy tones and the smell of cinnamon pie and freshly baked bread.

“It is not the beginning of a Hans Christian Andersen fairy tale but a universal trend that has arisen from a desire to live in a world outside of the one we currently live in,” says Smitha Zachariah, creative head, ZXP Design. “A world where there are no mobile phones ringing constantly, no 24/7 work emails or Zoom meetings to attend. It is the recreation of the simple, rustic countryside vibe: soft furnishings with floral patterns, endearing DIYs and pretty things that spell pastoral pleasure making your home a cheerful paradise.”

Cottagecore also means embracing your roots and following sustainable practices while creating a pictureperfect cottage vibe.

Much like hygge (which is the Danish and Norwegian term that is the epitome of snug comfort), 34 | SEEMA.COM | JULY 2021

cottagecore is about seeking solace in nostalgia, contentment in rural tranquility. And unlike minimalism or the Scandinavian trend, cottagecore celebrates maximalism but with a vintage feel and a whimsical touch replete with textures and colors.

“Cottagecore is about the good old days, warm conversations over the dinner table, plenty of natural and organic materials and greenery galore,” says Divita Anjesh, founder and head designer, Reclaimed Wood. “It is also about DIYs and hence is a combination of beauty & sustainability.”

DÉCOR ELEMENTS Given that Cottagecore décor is about evoking rustic aesthetic, the first step is to adopt a palette full of pastels, beige, creams and earthy tones. Botanical prints, a faux fireplace and exposed brick walls are just some ideas for your living room.

“Some classic elements include dried flower bouquets, indoor plants, ambient lighting and wooden accents,” says Swati Santani, VP - Design R&D, Design Cafe. “Go in for natural earth friendly materials and look for repurposed pieces including vintage furniture, upcycled accessories, distressed finishes and the like.” When it comes to furnishings, upholstery and wall paper there is nothing like soft colors, old fashioned lace curtains and hand embroidered cushion covers.

Simple cotton bed linen, an applique work quilt and framed family pictures on the wall could add oodles of oldworld charm to your bedroom. A vintage four-poster bed, string lights, sheer curtains, a bunch of roses and a rocking chair while you read or knit go a long way in adding reassuring, cozy vibes. Wool and organic cotton are the ideal choices for blankets, pillows and throws.

When it comes to the kitchen and dining space, there is nothing more old school than dainty kitchen

valances, open shelves filled with your grandmother’s crockery and plenty of plants by the kitchen window.

“A kitchen cabinet filled with ceramic cookware with chicken mesh doors, your own little herb garden and a bunch of dried eucalyptus or dried flowers hanging upside down can bring in the rustic feels in a jiffy” says Sanjana Lunia, founder and creative head of Eris Home.

STYLE CUES If you want to incorporate the cottagecore aesthetic in your home, it is key to note that it is not about being perfect or impeccably coordinated, it is about embracing the natural imperfections and the ability to mix and match colors, textures and materials. So, go ahead and choose your favorite chairs for the dining table rather than a meticulously put together set. Start slow and add in elements that inspire, tell a story and make you happy.

If you are fond of knitting, macramé or crochet, make a unique wall hanging to reflect your personality, use old perfume bottles to arrange fresh flowers and pick up quaint pieces on your next visit to the thrift shop. You do not have to buy expensive flowers, use plenty of natural material like jute, wooden twigs, drift wood and the like to make impromptu arrangements with foraged flowers and leaves. Use a wooden ladder to hang in plants or your favourite accessories.

Create a cosy nook where you can retreat while you read or knit, place your favorite plants and flowers, and make it your haven. Hang a hammock or a swing in your patio, if you have one. Light plenty of scented candles in dispensers with essential oils at dusk to create an invigorating ambiance. At the end of the day, remember there are no hard and fast rules. Your house is a reflection of your personality, style and character. Go ahead and make it unapologetically yours!

PHOTOS CREDIT: RASHMI GOPAL RAO

PHOTO CREDIT: : ERIS HOME

Cottagecore in the kitchen

Elements of cottagecore decor

• https://www.etsy.com/market/cottagecore_decor • https://www.target.com/c/farmhouse-decor/-/N-4y508?clkid= d940f128N8eec11eba51842010a246328&lnm=81938&afid=Veriz on%20Media%20Group&ref=tgt_adv_xasd0002 • https://www.redbubble.com/shop/cottagecore+home-decor • https://www.apartmenttherapy.com/cottagecore-home-decoramazon-36825083

Cushions in the cottagecore aesthetic Furniture using the signature style

PHOTOS CREDIT: : DIVITA ANJESH, RECLAIMED WOOD

WHERE YOU CAN SHOP FOR COTTAGECORE DÉCOR AND CREATE THIS AESTHETIC:

FEATURES | SEEMA

A view of Eri silk fabrics 36 | SEEMA.COM | JULY 2021

ERI SILK:

PEACE AND SUSTAINABILITY PHOTO CREDIT: SANJANA LUNIA, ERIS HOME

RASHMI GOPAL RAO

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andhya Rao, 27 had a tough time choosing the ideal silk sari for her big day. A staunch vegan for many years, she strictly abstained from using silk and leather. Her joy knew no bounds when she discovered Eri silk of Assam, India’s own Ahimsa silk.

An elegant, dull gold-hued sari with a subtle luster. The perfect choice that made her day all the more special.

The non-violent silk is very popular with not just vegans and Buddhists but also with any silk enthusiast or champion of sustainability and conscious living.

A Sustainable Silk

Eri silk gets its name from the Assamese word “era,” meaning “castor,” as the silkworms from the caterpillar of Samia ricini (Eri silkworm) feed on the leaves of the castor plant (Ricinus communis). Eri is one of the four commercially available silks in India, the other three being Mulberry silk

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“THE TEXTURE OF ERI SILK FABRIC IS FINE AND DENSE, AND HENCE IT IS DURABLE, WITH GOOD TENSILE STRENGTH AND ELASTICITY” Sanjana Lunia, Founder and Creative Head, Eris Home

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(which accounts for more than 80% of all silk textiles), Tasar and Muga silk. Mulberry and Eri silkworms can be reared indoors, while the worms producing Muga and Tasar are normally reared outdoors.

While Assam is the main producer of Eri silk, small quantities are also manufactured in Meghalaya and other northeastern Indian states.

The main differentiator of Eril silk is the structure of the cocoon and the fact that its fiber is not reeled.

“The cocoons are open ended and there is an opening for the moth to emerge,” says Khitish Pandya, founder of Eco Tasar and Ecosareeclub. “The cocoon is processed once the moth flies out and hence it is called Ahima – or non-violent – silk. In the other three types of silks, the cocoon is closed completely and to make reeled yarn, one has to kill the pupae inside, so that the emerging moth does not cut and damage the cocoon when it emerges.”

A Long, Labor-Intensive Process

The cycle from egg to cocoon takes approximately 45-50 days. It is a common sight in the rural areas of Assam and elsewhere in the Northeast: baskets covered with castor leaves with the silkworms within. The climate of Northeast India is warm and humid and favors Eri culture. It takes about 30 days for the worms to grow to full size, after which it starts spinning the cocoon, which takes about 15 days. It is key to note that the Eri silkworm spins short segments of filament. These raw silk filaments have a natural coating called sericin.

Once the moths depart, the cocoons are cooked in boiling water with soap, which removes the gumlike secretion and also softens the cocoons. They are then pressed into small cakes akin to cotton pads and left to dry before the yarn is spun.

The process is akin to the spinning

of wool. Spinning is labor-intensive because the short filaments often get tangled and knotted and have to be sorted by hand, twisted and then spun, like in cotton or wool.

Spinning is done on hand looms, fly shuttle looms, or even power looms. Rural areas still rely on floor looms but are now slowly shifting to the more advanced Flying 8’ looms. While rearing silkworms involves the whole family, the women folk usually do the spinning and weaving.

Once spun, the fabric is dyed using plant-based or chemical dyes. Several rural regions use local dyes made from the barks of trees, vegetables, fruits, plant pigments, etc. If not dyed, Eri silk has a beautiful natural off-white color, the hue, tint and shade depending on various factors, such as the quality of worms, temperature etc.

A Strong and Durable Fiber

Since Eri silk is spun, it is much thicker than reeled yarn, which also gives it a soft texture. Curiously enough, it is cooling in the summer, and keeps you warm in winter.

“The texture of Eri silk fabric is fine and dense, and hence it is durable, with good tensile strength and elasticity,” says Sanjana Lunia, founder and creative head, Eris Home. “It is a staple fiber as opposed to the continuous fiber woven in other types of silks.”

The silk is as comfortable as cotton and has the warmth of wool, and can be worn all year round, making it a good fabric for apparel, furnishings and the like.

“Eri silk has gained a lot of impetus these days,” says Shailini Sheth Amin, founder, MORALFIBRE. “Eri silk masks are extremely comfortable. In spite of the pandemic and drastically reduced sales, we find that there is a lot of interest in our buyers from India and abroad.”

Upholstery from Eris Home made with Eri silk

Spinning Eri silk

PHOTO CREDIT: ECO TASAR AND ECOSAREECLUB

PHOTO CREDIT: SANJANA LUNIA, ERIS HOME

Working with silk worms

RECOMMENDS | SEEMA

The SEEMA SUMMER HOLIDAY Guide The editors pick the top 10 destinations to visit, post-pandemic

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or our American audience at SEEMA, the limits on how you can spend summer have suddenly broadened.

With more of the country opening up and COVID restrictions being lifted among mass vaccination drives, the populace is generally more optimistic.

You see more people in the streets, more people embracing each other, more people exhibiting unbridled joy at being able to enjoy the outside life. That is when you realize you can now put on your sunglasses, pack your bags, stock up on sandwiches, and take a trip!

Eased restriction means we have a license to travel. As the peak summer month of July hits, you might as well take a mental health break and

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explore a part of the country you have not seen before. We, the editors over at SEEMA, feel the same way. And we have some of our picks for locations to visit nationwide, ones that will help you gain more perspective of the country we live in this July, and enjoy the beauty of nature.

However – and we cannot stress this enough – just because we can travel, does not mean we should not do it responsibly. Continue wearing a mask, stay clean and sanitized at all times, make sure you are vaccinated before you travel, and take as many measures as you can to protect yourself and others. While we may be able to move about, baby steps should be the way to go. With that said, let us see what our editors have to suggest, complete with their testimonials (spoiler alert: there’s a lot of American history involved).

THE BEAUTIFUL STATE OF MASSACHUSETTS: “Cape Cod, Martha’s Vineyard, Nantucket… The state has several of the best ways to beat the heat by the beach, the shore, the shimmering water. And while you’re at it, also enjoy whale watching, eat delicious food, get a dose of history and culture, and relax with some golfing to boot. Block Island and Newport, RI are also great spots and a hop, skip, and jump from Massachusetts.”

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ACADIA NATIONAL PARK, MAINE: “After being stuck in the same city for more than a year, everyone wants to head out of the concrete mania and enjoy summer amid nature. That’s why I’d love to go to Acadia National Park. It’s got a rocky coastline plus mountains plus gorgeous hiking trails!”

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THE HUDSON VALLEY IN NEW YORK: “After having lived here through quarantine, I can say that this place has some of the most breathtaking hikes this side of the east coast, surrounded by stunning green vistas and, of course, the majestic Hudson river. The air show in August near Newburgh and some of the art museums in Beacon are particularly worth visiting.”

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THE INTERNATIONAL ART AND FOLK MARKET, SANTA FE, NEW MEXICO: “This market, which sets up in July, is fantastic – the quaint cobblestone streets and fun market for handmade products is a shopper’s dream.

But there are also some other amazing places to visit in Santa Fe & White Sands monument & Carlsbad Cavern, New Mexico.”

THE GRAND CANYON: “Grand, vast, and rugged, this location expands and stretches the limits of your body, soul, and imagination. The heart opens up 100 fold in the immense grandeur, which just takes your breath away. The Colorado River has traveled through the layers of rock over nearly two billion years, creating eons of story and geological history of the Earth. Plus, learning about the Pueblos and Native Americans and the life they lived there for more than 800 years is something worth appreciating!”

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WASHINGTON DC, VIRGINIA: “Is it a very common tourist spot? Sure. But the advantage of a safer system of travel and crowds being not as intense (and aren’t we all thankful for that?) means you can enjoy some of the country’s most recognizable tourist locations in a way you probably might not be able to in the near future. Just make sure no one else has the same idea and do your research beforehand.”

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RECOMMENDS | SEEMA

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MOUNT RUSHMORE NATIONAL MEMORIAL, KEYSTONE, SOUTH DAKOTA: “Another pick for July, it is ‘American History, Alive in Stone…,’ as the tagline goes. The grand faces of George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Theodore Roosevelt, and Abraham Lincoln watch over you as you’re encapsulated within the beauty of the Black Hills, giving you an insight into the development of this rich country.”

SEATTLE, WASHINGTON: “I’ve wanted to visit the Space Needle ever since I first heard about it, and Pike Place market is on my bucket list too. I’m a bit of a history buff, so I’m excited about the idea of underground tours and Victorian-era buildings. Seattle has a bit of everything, and is another city to enjoy without the massive crowds.”

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COLONIAL WILLIAMSBURG, VIRGINIA: “This is the time you can take to learn more about American history and culture. What better time to do it than July, the month of America? A livinghistory museum set in the middle of Williamsburg, Virginia, if you’re a nut for historical facts told through people in costume, this might be for you.”

THOR’S WELL, OREGON: “This peculiar spot is located in Yachats, close to the popular Cape Perpetua. It has a hint of mystery to it due to its optical illusion of being a sea cave that has collapsed unto itself. And, of course, there are tons of places in the state of Oregon to make the journey worthwhile.”

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FOOD | SEEMA

Big Punch in a Small Package Microgreens are a powerhouse of nutrients, a wellspring of health TEXT AND PHOTOS BY RASHMI GOPAL RAO

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remember sowing ragi (finger millet) grains in little containers of soil and watching them grow as a run-up to the gollu (doll display) preparations during Dasara. It remains one of my fondest childhood memories.

Once the green shoots grew to about three-fourth of an inch, we would excitedly use them to create ‘parks’ and ‘lawns’ in our gollu. The shoots, of course, would keep growing during the 10-day period of Dasara. By the end it would eclipse the little toy cars, vans and figurines we had placed between them. We would blissfully discard the greens after the festival.

Well, that was when we knew little about microgreens – that the little seedlings of ragi were filled with vitamins, minerals and antioxidants. All we cared about was its decorative value.

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VARIED AND EASY TO GROW So, what exactly are microgreens and why are they so popular?

Simply put, microgreens are seedlings of herbs and vegetables, somewhere between a sprout and a baby plant. Also called microherbs or vegetable confetti, they are usually 1-2 inches tall and go directly from the pot to the plate. It is believed that microgreens were first used around the 1980s-1990s in California and since then have scaled new heights of popularity all over the world. Some of the easiest microgreens to grow are broccoli, kale, basil, amaranth, finger millet (ragi), wheat, mustard, fenugreek (methi), radish, pea shoots and arugula.

These young green vegetables can be grown easily indoors – on window sills and balconies – and outdoors, whether in the kitchen garden or

Tomatoes with aged balsamic and homemade ricotta cheese enhanced with microgreens JULY 2021 | SEEMA.COM | 45

been lying around your kitchen. Just make sure the container has small holes to allow the excess water to drain out.

Fill the container halfway with soil or pot mix and then scatter the microgreen seeds. Cover the seeds with a thin layer of soil/pot mix and spray a little water with a mister. It will take between three and seven days for the first sprouts to appear.

Ensure that the soil is moist all the time. In summer, you may have to use the mister twice a day. The container needs to receive at least 3-4 hours of bright sunlight. As the sprouts gradually grow and the first true leaves appear, you can harvest the microherbs with scissors. To hasten germination, especially of fenugreek and finger millet, soak the seeds in water for about 12-24 hours prior to sowing.

The process is relatively hassle-free and should take 2-3 weeks depending on microgreen you grow. So, if you are looking to spend your summers purposefully, growing microgreens help in more ways than one!

Microgreens growing in a pot

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backyard. Unlike sprouts, they need both soil and sunlight to grow. While there are many companies that offer starter kits to grow microgreens, it is simple enough for you to do on your own. All you need are the seeds, soil and a tray or a another flat container.

For the latter you can use either a conventional pot or any disposable dish you get when you order takeaway, or something that may have

WHOLESOME AND NUTRITIOUS One of the main reasons microherbs are popular is that they are nutrientdense and have more vitamins and compounds like polyphenols than their mature counterparts.

Most of them are rich in vitamin A, C, E, and K, as well as enzymes essential for healthy skin, bones and overall physical and mental health.

Polyphenols are antioxidants known to improve heart health and have a positive effect on conditions such as cancer, diabetes and Alzheimer’s.

Most of them are also rich in minerals such as iron, potassium, zinc, copper and magnesium, which again support essential functions like fluid balance and keep the immune system healthy.

Different microgreens have their own set of unique benefits. For example, red cabbage microgreens

Pumpkin ravioli with burnt sage butter sauce and pumpkin seeds garnished with microgreens

Microgreens growing in a pot near a kitchen window

A plate of soft cheese topped with various microgreens

are cardioprotective and aid the absorption of iron, while coriander microgreens are loaded with beta carotene that aid the immune system.

Basil microgreens are rich in vitamin K, which is essential for blood clotting and has slow osteoporosis. Fenugreek microgreens are replete with phytonutrients, such as choline, which has antioxidant, anticarcinogenic, antidiabetic, and lactation-inducing properties. It is also rich in fiber and protein.

Wheatgrass (wheat microgreens) is a superfood used to build immunity, boost metabolism and combat various diseases.

VERSATILITY AND USEFUL Although tiny, microgreens are filled with flavor, and add color, crunch and texture to just about any dish.

In fact, you can use them to enhance the flavors of any

savory dish, including soups, salads and sandwiches, making them a favorite culinary ingredient for many.

Add them as a garnish to a summer salad of cherry tomatoes, peppers, lettuce and ricotta cheese, or to a salad of roasted beetroot and raw honey. You can also include them in your morning juices and smoothies to boost their nutritional quotient.

Drop them in pasta salads and summer-friendly cold soups. Summer is also a time for celebrations and gettogethers. So, don’t feel guilty if you gorge on that extra cheese platter, kabab or ravioli. Just ensure that they are topped with some microgreens to make them more wholesome and healthy!

WHERE TO BUY: https://kinneyminifarms.com/ https://www.urbancultivator.net/ JULY 2021 | SEEMA.COM | 47

FOOD | SEEMA

BRING PEOPLE TOGETHER WITH A LUXURY GRILL TABLE Want to boost the fun at your barbecues with family and friends? Here’s a great option

MARIE ABENDROTH

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here is no better way to bring everyone together at your backyard barbecues than around a luxury grill table. You will no longer have one group chilling around the grill while the others work in the kitchen. Instead, you can get all your guests tableside and help cook up the meal to perfection.

Here’s what you need to know to know about getting and enjoying a luxury grill table.

WHAT IS A LUXURY GRILL TABLE? A luxury grill table is a comfy place for your backyard barbecue guests to gather, and a charcoal or propane grill, all-in-one. The grilling surface sits in the center of the rectangular, square, round or octagon table, so all your guests can reach it. Each person can grill their own meats, veggies and even fruit to suit their preferences while chatting it up with their tablemates.

These are the most popular luxury grill tables in the market today: • Angara by iBBQ • The Jag Eight by Jag Grills • Riviera by Firetainment

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at yo group together Bring the whole a grill table next BBQ with

To select the ideal grill table, consider your ideal number of guests at each event and where you would like everyone to sit. Plus, take the time to decide which foods you’d like to cook at your barbecues.

If you prefer intimate parties of four and want to go beyond grilling to cooking up fondue and more, for example, then you will love the Riviera. But if you go for big groups, then you need The Jag Eight.

At $2,500 to well over $5,000, a luxury grill table is a big expense. If you cannot justify its high cost, you can go with a hibachi charcoal grill, such as the YAK 400 Series. With one or two of these grills at the center of a wood table, you can get all your guests cooking at once.

BENEFITS OF LUXURY GRILL TABLES When you replace your aging barbecue grill with a luxury grill table, you bring your whole group together around a focal point instead of being spread all across your house and yard. This promotes a more intimate setting, which helps spark new friendships and strengthen bonds. As the friendly banter ebbs and flows, each person can try their hand at grilling up the supplied ingredients, Seasoned pros can show off their grilling tricks and novices can quickly improve their skills.

HOW TO MAKE THE MOST OF THE EXPERIENCE To enjoy the benefits of your luxury grill table, this is how you must prep for your party: • Building a menu using foods that cook fast • Buying a wide array of seasonings that match the theme • Applying marinades or dry rubs to the proteins ahead of time • Chopping the ingredients to ensure they have similar cooking times • Creating appetizers and side dishes that do not need time on the grill After that, you just have to decide when and how you will roll out each phase of the meal. Individual courses work best, starting with a few pre-made appetizers you can serve while the grill heats up.

You can then bring out the ingredients for each course and let everyone place their selections on the grill while chatting up a storm.

Although a luxury grill table is a big upfront expense, it is worth the cost to get all your guests really together.

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TO TRY

L A F V O M R A E S E R Y R FO OU E B

From California to New York island, these frozen pleasures are made for you, me and everybody ALEXANDER HARRIS

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veryone loves ice cream, but even chocolate and vanilla get boring after a while. That’s why we searched high and low to find some of the finest ice cream flavors that ever crossed a taste bud.

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FOOD | SEEMA

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ROSE ICE CREAM WITH CINNAMON-ROASTED ALMONDS FROM MALAI ICE CREAM – BROOKLYN, NY Founded in 2015 by entrepreneur Pooja Bavishi, Malai Ice Cream in Brooklyn exploded onto the scene with an array of delectable South Asian ice cream flavors, such as Masala Chai and Sweet Corn Saffron. But one flavor stands out as its most popular, a mouthwatering Rose with Cinnamon Roasted Almonds that is a perfect balance of sweet, floral, and spiced flavors.

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ALPHONSO MANGO ICE CREAM FROM KWALITY ICE CREAM – EDISON, NJ If you are lucky enough to live near a location of the U.S.based revival of India’s famous Kwality Ice Cream, then you already know. For the uninitiated, the new Kwality Ice Cream’s gourmet flavors are developed by co-founder and food scientist Dr. Kanti Parekh and it somehow contains no added sugar. For the ultimate experience, grab a scoop of Alphonso King Mango from the chain’s original Edison, NJ location and enjoy as the fruity taste of Ratnagiri mangos lingers in your mouth.

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SALTED CARAMEL ICE CREAM WITH MYSOREPAK CRUMBLE FROM KOOLFI CREAMERY – SAN LEANDRO, CA San Francisco’s Koolfi Creamery features a full slate of awesome flavors, with organic dairy and dairyfree options. With a mix of American ice cream parlor classics and Indian-inspired options that include Bombay Butterscotch with Cashew Toffee, Roasted Marshmellow, or Cookies & Cream, it is hard to choose from. Our pick, however, is the oneof-a-kind Salted Caramel with MysorePak Crumble, a ghee-laden concoction that is so rich and flavorful you have to try it to believe it.

PAAN ICE CREAM FROM NATURE’S NATURAL AND ORGANIC ICE CREAM – SAN FRANCISCO, CA If you’re going to San Francisco, forget the flower in your hair and go straight to Nature’s Natural and Organic Ice Cream in Fremont to get a scoop of Paan ice cream. The comforting flavor is made from fresh betel leaves, fennel seeds, dates, and rose. Save room for more flavors, such as Pecan Pie, Falooda, Birthday Cake, and Chocolate Chip and go home happy.

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CEREAL MILK SOFT SERVE FROM MILK BAR – NEW YORK CITY, LOS ANGELES, AND WASHINGTON, D.C. Remember the way the leftover milk tasted after eating all the breakfast cereal out of the bowl?

Now imagine all the nostalgia one lick of Cereal Milk Soft Serve from Milk Bar will give you. This world-renowned scoop is made from a clever mix of milk, corn flakes, brown sugar and a dash of salt.

6 THE ORIGINAL RAINBOW CONE – CHICAGO, IL Since 1926, the Original Rainbow Cone has been serving up its signature concoction, a multilayered helping of five delightful flavors of ice cream: chocolate, strawberry, Palmer House (vanilla with walnuts and cherries), pistachio, and orange sherbet. Expect a wait for this oneof-a-kind treat, but trust us, it is worth it!

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6. BANANA BOURBON CARAMEL ICE CREAM FROM ICE CREAM JUBILEE – WASHINGTON, DC There are plenty of parlors to get your scoop on in the D.C. area, but Ice Cream Jubilee has us salivating the most over its menu in which the Deep South meets the Far East, in flavor combinations such as Thai Iced Tea, Buttered Toast and Marmalade, and Whiskey Toasted Marshmallow. Its top selling flavor is Banana Bourbon Caramel with Jim Beam bourbon, a definite add-on to your ice cream bucket list.

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GOAT CHEESE, THYME, AND HONEY ICE CREAM FROM LICK HONEST ICE CREAMS – AUSTIN, TX Folks in Austin are known to do things a little bit differently than the rest of Texas, and making ice cream is no exception as far as Lick Honest Ice Creams is concerned. All the milk comes from locally-owned family dairy, and everything from cones to toppings are made in-house from scratch. With regionally inspired flavors such as Texas Sheet Cake, Horchata, and Hill Country Honey and Vanilla. However, standing out from the pack is superbly-balanced Goat Cheese, Thyme and Honey flavor. Sourced from all local ingredients, this flavor is not one to miss.

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CHINESE TIGER TAIL ICE CREAM FROM WONG’S ICE CREAM – TORONTO, ON Toronto’s Chinatown is home to one of its top ice cream shops. Wong’s Ice Cream serves up a rotating selection of Asianinfused ice cream flavors like Kong Kong Milk Tea, Wasabi Honey, and Ubi. But when owner Ed Wong serves up his signature Chinese Tiger Tail – a combo of black sesame and salted duck egg yolks – run, don’t walk, for your chance to try it.

TEXAS KULFI FROM SWEET CUP GELATO – HOUSTON, TX Inspired by a trip to Italia, Jasmine Chida decided to open her own gelato shop in Houston that has gone on to become one of the city’s best spots for frozen treats. Scrumptious options include Strawberry Tres Leches, Almond Honey, and Cherry Cheesecake. But it’s Sweet Cup’s Texas Kulfi gelato that has our attention with its stunning combination of pralines, whiskey, and kulfi flavors.

FOOD | SEEMA

A Desi

PICNIC FEAST We have some great options – from dips to desserts, salads to sandwiches, rolls to wraps ROHINI KAPUR

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right sunshine, parks full of lush green trees, and (vaccinated) friends and family — it is time for a picnic!

As you soak up the sun and enjoy those relaxed summer vibes, share a laugh or two with your loved ones. And up your picnic game with delicious fare that everyone will enjoy.

Here is our guide on preparing your picnic spread with a South Asian twist on perennial favorites, from sandwiches to desserts.

SANDWICHES The Bombay masala sandwich is a picnic staple, with layers of green chutney, butter and sliced veggies. And while it is still our go-to sandwich, when in a bind thinking a little out of the box can go a long way to create new picnic favorites.

Re-invent sandwiches by whipping up spicy spreads and South Asiainspired fillings. Mash or blend cooked chickpeas with seasonings from your pantry and some fresh cilantro.

Scoop and spread the mash on a baguette along with mayo, add sliced cucumbers and tomatoes, and you have a picnic-ready sandwich.

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FOOD | SEEMA Add a protein kick to your sandwich with a folded besan chilla (gram flour crepes) between two breads for a vegetarian club sandwich. Or opt for egg bhurji (spiced scrambled eggs) between lightly toasted bread slices for a wholesome outdoor snack.

Is there any desi ingredient more ubiquitous than paneer (aka cottage cheese)? Whether using homemade or store-bought cottage cheese, all you got to do is mix it with grated carrot and spices (cumin powder, chaat masala, or even pav bhaji masala), slop on the mixture between two slices of bread and you are good to go!

ROLLS AND WRAPS Wraps are the perfect picnic food. They satisfy your hunger pangs, they are easy to carry and they are super versatile.

A spicy Bombay frankie with paneer or chicken is extremely popular, but you can choose a simpler option. Stuff your wraps with your favorite grilled vegetables or meat — anything from chicken tikka to tandoori mushrooms.

For a more sophisticated touch, use kebabs, tikkis or cutlets for your wrap fillings. You could try a rajma galouti kebab, seekh kebab or simple homemade tikkis. Add a dash of freshness with julienned or spiralized vegetables like carrot or cabbage, some onions, chaat masala and cilantro leaves. Then squeeze over a bit of lemon just before you eat for all-round deliciousness!

SALADS Who does not enjoy a cold salad on a warm summer day? Take advantage of the season’s fresh produce to make a cheerful salad that even kids will want to eat.

Enhance your salad greens with fresh fruits like apples, peaches and plums, and serve with a yogurt-based dressing. For a creamy and healthy salad dressing, whisk thick yogurt with lemon, honey, a dash of apple cider vinegar and your preferred flavors (such as cumin powder).

An easy but tasty salad option uses two quintessential South Asian ingredients as a base — mango and cottage cheese aka paneer (yes, they go well together!). Experiment with your dressing — a standard honey-mustard dressing is good, but so is an orange juice vinaigrette.

And if you want to give your salads a serious upgrade, opt for a chaat instead.

Swap the potato salad for a chaat or corn bhel or get adventurous with a foxnuts (makhana) bhel.

DIPS There is an unwritten rule: Every picnic basket should have enough dips and chips to go around.

Give your dips a desi spin with a tandoori hummus.

All you need to do is add a dash of any tandoori masala or spice mix (store-bought or prepared at home) when blending your hummus in the food processor. You can even use a biryani mix or your family’s fish marinade recipe. Add a sprinkle of fennel seeds or curry leaves for a bit of zing.

My favorite for summer, though, is a dip made of hung yogurt. Strain yogurt for a few hours in a muslin cloth so you are left with a large bowl of thick creamy curd. Add minced garlic, finely chopped celery or mint leaves, a small green chili, salt and black pepper and you are set for a treat!

This also works brilliantly as a sandwich or wrap spread.

BEVERAGES Nimboo pani (Indian-style lemonade) is a handsdown winner when it comes to summer drinks. Give it that extra kick by adding fresh watermelon juice or a dash of rose syrup.

Green Potatoes Chaat RECIPE BY SUNITA KAPUR

DESSERTS The best way to finish your picnic is on a sweet note. Have a go-to muffin recipe? Add chai masala (ground cardamom, cinnamon and ginger) to the batter to come up with a batch of chai-spiced muffins.

If you have no time to bake, round up your picnic

Serves 3-4 people INGREDIENTS • 4 large potatoes, boiled • Cilantro leaves, 1.5 cups • Green chilies (one or two, depending on your taste) • Red chili powder, ¼ tsp • Cumin powder, 1 tsp • Chaat masala, 1 tsp • Black pepper powder, ¼ tsp • Juice from half a lemon • Salt to taste • Tamarind chutney (optional)

with a sweet-and-spicy fruit chaat. Mix up a large bowl of cubed seasonal fruits (avoid watery ones like melons), add some sweet tamarind or dates chutney, or a spoonful of orange juice, some chaat masala, and you are done!

METHOD • Blend cilantro leaves and green chilies to paste in a small food processor with a little water.

• Peel and chop the potatoes into cubes and mix with the cilantro-chili paste and all the seasonings in a large bowl.

• Refrigerate and serve chilled.

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TO BEAT THE HEAT

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Fruity options to slake your thirst and indulge those tastebuds CAMILLE BERRY

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ummer is officially here, and with it comes a bounty of gorgeous seasonal fruits. And if you’re anything like us, you’ll be scouring the internet for the best ways to make the most of them. Our take? Mix up some mocktails that the whole family can enjoy.

Both adults and kids will love these simple yet flavorful mocktails based on summer berries, melon, and papaya.

They’re easy, delicious, and fun to make and, in our opinion, are the best way to stay cool this summer.

B E R R Y

S P R I T Z E R

What better way to take advantage of summer’s bounty of seasonal fresh berries than to make yourself a cool, refreshing drink? This berry spritzer is brilliant for brunches and other warmweather get-togethers. For the best results, pick up a variety of fresh berries for your spritzer.

Blueberries, raspberries, and blackberries are all wonderful, but don’t sleep on cherries – just slice them into halves and remove the stone before popping them in your pitcher.

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1 cup of berries of your choice 1 bottle of sparkling apple or grape juice Lemon peel for garnish Ice, if desired

Gently muddle the berries in a pitcher. Fill the pitcher with a bottle of chilled sparkling apple or grape juice. Stir, pour over ice if desired, then garnish with a lemon peel.

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FOOD | SEEMA Starting off with frozen watermelon is the secret to a perfect slushie. Here’s another pro-tip: use crushed ice instead of whole ice cubes. Crushed ice blends better and is essential to achieving that ideal thick consistency we all know and love. This frozen watermelon slush gets its sweetness from a spoonful (or few, depending on how sweet you like your drinks) of honey, but you can use agave nectar or even simple syrup instead. Honey is our personal go-to for frozen tipples because it boasts more health benefits than sugar and adds a subtle flavor to drinks. While this recipe only calls for 3 ingredients plus ice, you can experiment with adding other frozen fruits to make a killer slushie.

• 6 cups frozen watermelon chunks • ¼ cup freshly squeezed lime juice • 1 to 2 tablespoons honey or agave nectar • Crushed ice Place all the ingredients in a blender. Do a few quick

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blitzes to break down the ice and watermelon. Blend on low until the ingredients combine, then switch to high. Once blended, taste the slushie and make any adjustments you desire. Pour the slushie into chilled glasses, and enjoy.

P A P A Y A

Like mango, papaya is a fantastic summery fruit that makes a phenomenal addition to many drinks recipes. Coupled with the refreshing mint and zesty lime of mojito, and you’ve got yourself one stellar drink. This virgin papaya mojito is another top of the list choice for barbecues and dinners with friends when you want to serve a nonalcoholic beverage. Of course, it’s easy to make a version with booze, as well. Just add 1 ½ ounce of white rum when you’re stirring in the papaya puree.

M O J I T O • • • • • •

3 to 4 tablespoons papaya puree 1 teaspoon superfine sugar 8 to 10 mint leaves, plus extra Juice from half a lime Crushed ice Club soda

To make the papaya puree, cut one small deseeded papaya into mediumsized chunks. Blend until smooth. Place mint, sugar, and lime juice into a highball glass. Gently muddle, making sure not to overdo it. Stir in the papaya puree.

Add the crushed ice and top up with club soda. Give the drink a gentle stir and garnish with mint.

WELLNESS | SEEMA

NAPS AND THE HEALTHY HUMAN

A short siesta

can be good for both the body and the brain

MEENA AZZOLLINI

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siesta – an afternoon nap – is ingrained in Indian culture. Ask any resident of Pune, where napping between 2 and 4 pm is customary. In Kolkata, the streets become deserted in the afternoon as many Bengalis step away for a little shut-eye. In Goa, susegad (Konkani for siesta) is a way of life.

Businesses close and silence descends as people slip away to rest.

However, an afternoon nap is quickly becoming a thing of the past in many other parts of the world, including in the fast-paced metropolitan cities of India.

Still, most Indians feel that a nap can improve their productivity. They are right. Napping promises many

benefits for your health, cognitive abilities, and overall performance.

THE JOYS OF SNOOZING IMPROVES MEMORY Naps promote better memory consolidation to regular nappers — a process by which your brain converts information into long-term memory. This helps you remember information after a long time with ease and accuracy.

Studies also show that a nap can help you retain information better after learning, with better memory recall after a nap.

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WELLNESS | SEEMA your brain a chance to recover and reduces the levels of adenosine — a neurotransmitter that renders you sleepy in the afternoon. In fact, the CDC recommends emergency responders take naps to recover from fatigue and restore alertness.

Of course, increased sleepiness during the day can also be a sign of poor sleep at night, which you need to address with good sleep habits.

ENHANCES LEARNING SKILLS If you are learning a new skill, studying, or taking in new information at work, then a nap can help. Not only does it improve your memory and focus, but various studies show that a brief period of slumber can enhance your capacity to learn.

IMPROVES MOOD One way to improve daytime crankiness and irritability caused by a poor night’s sleep is to take a nap. Poor sleep results in an imbalance in the neuroendocrine system. A quick nap will restore this balance, making you feel better.

Even in well-rested people, a daytime nap can improve mood, boost positivity, and increase tolerance for frustration.

IMPROVES PROBLEM-SOLVING SKILLS A boost to your brain’s cognitive abilities with a daytime nap is enough to improve your creative problemsolving skills.

Studies show that rapid eye movement (REM) sleep enhances your ability to connect unassociated information, which improves problem-solving and logical reasoning. This helps you find solutions to problems that have been troubling you for a while.

GOOD FOR HEART HEALTH While the exact reason is not clear, a daytime nap taken once or twice a week lowers the risk of having a heart attack or stroke, according to a study.

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Regular napping is also linked to a lower risk of heart problems. A Greek study of 23,000 participants found siesta can lower the risk of dying from heart disease by 37 percent.

It is important to keeps naps to less an hour. Anything longer than 60 minutes may put your heart at risk of cardiovascular disease.

LOWERS BLOOD PRESSURE An afternoon snooze appears to lower blood pressure by 3 to 5mm HG, which is similar to the drop you experience when you make lifestyle changes such as reducing salt and alcohol intake.

Such a drop is significant for your heart health and can lower your risk of a heart attack.

INCREASES PRODUCTIVITY With all the benefits a power nap offers for your cognitive abilities, it’s no wonder that you experience a boost in your productivity after a nap.

You are more focused and alert, your brain has rested, your ability to recall information is much better, and your learning capabilities are enhanced — all of which makes you highly productive.

HEALTHY NAPPING After reading about all these benefits, you are probably thinking of taking a quick snooze. But not all naps are beneficial. There are a few things you need to keep in mind to nap the smarter way.

• Take a quick nap to rest but not to catch up on sleep.

• Nap between 1 pm and 3 pm. If you try to nap earlier, your body will not be ready. Taking a nap later than 3 pm will disrupt your sleep at night.

• For most people, a power nap of about 20-30 minutes is enough to give them the extra boost of energy. Studies show that a nap of 10 minutes produces the best results with no grogginess (sleep inertia) on waking up. A nap longer than 30 minutes will leave you groggy for an hour after waking.

• While you want to be comfortable while taking a nap, being too comfortable can make you sleep longer. Take a nap on the couch or a cozy chair rather than on your bed.

HOROSCOPE | SEEMA

FORECAST WITH FARZANA Mar 21 - Apr 19

Embrace changes at work. In fact use it as a stepping stone to initiate the changes you may like to see in your career.

No matter what appears before you, play fair and be a better team player. Know when to set boundaries, use tact and stand up to claim what belongs to you. Love life may seem a tad chaotic so keep emotions in check. Mend fences if you have offended (knowingly or unknowingly) someone in the past.

Hold on to those purse strings and avoid lending to people you don’t entirely trust.

Apr 20 - May 20

Your selfbelief, confidence, passion, hard work and enthusiasm will put you in the spotlight.

It is time to wear your networking cape if you are vying for a leadership role or increased responsibilities. Be bold in your plans and move forward with courage. You are capable of initiating beneficial change. A financial windfall, or an investment that’s about to pay off or a new project and even a job opportunity, is likely. Take the lead in the area of

love and remember, relationships grow through communication.

May 21 Jun 20

financial abundance or invest in sprucing up the home décor. Step by step, things are coming together. Go for it, wisely.

Jul 23 - Aug 22

You may have recently walked away from a disappointing situation that was no longer meeting your needs. It may manifest as a career change, a new relationship, or the end of an old friendship. You may distance yourself from what takes away your peace and may feel more heart centered, and connected to the divine. Shift your perspective to what you are becoming rather than what has held you back.

Focus on budgeting and steer clear of any over ambitious investment plans.

You are possibly at a major crossroad in life. The struggle of making a choice between things that are opposing and mutually exclusive may seem to put you in a spot.

Decisions can be tough, but when you need to choose, reexamine your values and be sure that you listen to your heart. If you have been short on money lately, assistance is on its way. Mixing business with romance may not be the wisest decision, now. Partnerships, marriage and collaboration may pan out for the better.

Jun 21 - Jul 22

Aug 23 - Sept 22

You have everything you need to get by and feel good about the future. Stability and serenity of your home and loved ones takes precedence.

However, what bothers you, is having to do it all by yourself.

Tune in to your feeling of self-worth and nurture yourself. Yes, the caregivers need care, too. Do what inspires your soul. Commit to a relationship, use your talents to spur

You are on top of your game so stand up for what you believe in. Given your strength and determination, you have the vision to push through any adversity at work and come out a winner. Make a commitment, and refuse to accept less than what is essentially right.

For those who are single, change the paradigm and do things differently.

You can withstand any challenge in an JULY 2021 | SEEMA.COM | 63

HOROSCOPE | SEEMA existing relationship as long as you’re willing to work things out. Sound and calculated investments will create that comfortable nest egg.

Sept 23 - Oct 22

Look at your attachments and dependencies that are not serving your highest good feeling trapped in a job or relationship or a compulsive behavior or addiction, caused by fear or need for power. You may feel as if something or someone has a hold over you and that you have no choice.

However you do. Shake yourself out of complacency, speak up or simply, walk away and choose peace. Keep your cool and process your emotions before you speak. A health check would be a good idea.

Oct 23 - Nov 21

It is time for change, freedom, personal growth and spontaneity in the way you operate in the workplace or even in your relationship.

This is a good time to create your online dating profile and put yourself out there. It also portends that important, challenging choices lie ahead. Take calculated risks. Vet your financial options, well. The need for adventure may have you packing your travel bag. Pay close attention to your inner nudges. Wherever you are on your path, remember to live in humor and gratitude.

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Nov 22 - Dec 21

It’s not the time to jump into action but to lay still. Life is teaching you how to balance relationships and elevate your self-worth. For your dreams to take shape and change to happen, it is essential for you to process old wounds.

You may feel trapped in indecision, place your hand on your heart and breathe into that space. Reassess your relationships, workplace situations and your financial status. Let go of your need to please others at your own expense. You are on a journey. Inward and positive change is imminent.

Dec 22 - Jan 19

You are about to embark either on a new relationship or a fresh chapter in an existing partnership.

When moving through a new phase, it is natural to long for the familiarity of your past. Focus on revisiting your financial goals. Allow yourself the opportunity to express what you feel and understand what lights you up. Choose loving, supportive circumstances and relationships. Focus on strengthening your spirit as well as your body. Be compassionate and forgiving; for the art of living is in giving.

Jan 20 – Feb 20

Everything you’ve done now has been training you for the transformation. It is time to release the brakes. If you have been hoping for a deeper commitment in

your relationship, the time is opportune. An unexpected windfall may be coming your way.

Lean in on family values and good old traditions to resolve any sticky issues regarding finance. You are on the verge of a major breakthrough at work or in the field of education. It is likely that everything may come around the way you have wanted it to. Do not be hasty or impulsive.

Feb 21 – Mar 20

It is a favorable time to plant the seeds of success. Open the doors for new beginnings, recognition, emotional stability and improvement in health.

The month brings with it unexpected surprise gifts – a scholarship, money or the possibility of an inheritance. Use your resourcefulness to get things done.

Strike a balance between being a social butterfly and some alone time.

In the area of love, infuse freshness in an existing relationship and if you are solo, embark on a new one.

Farzana Suri is a Victory Coach who coaches people through their life’s challenges to take the leap to victory, using the science of numerology.

For a personalized forecast, you may contact Farzana at surifarzana@gmail.com or visit her website, www.farzanasuri.com

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