Brew July 2015

July 2015 `40

LIFESTYLE & ENTERTAINMENT

Meet the new

SUPERHEROES

in town >> 20

FORGING SHIELDS SELF DEFENCE CLASSES BY VAJRA>> 20 CASCADING MIRTH BEST WATERFALLS IN THE WORLD >> 50

kept hidden. Let’s take a vow to help and work towards getting everyone to prosper regardless of status, caste or creed.

Women like Pooja Malhotra, an event planner who is working towards making self-defence classes compulsory for schoolgirls and Beno Zephine, a visually challenged candidate who cleared the Civil Services Examination talk about the changes they are looking forward to make in the society.

Brilliant artists express how they infuse culture Don’t you think the cover is adorable? We

in their work that immediately strikes a chord

were thrilled to spend time with the two boys

in the minds of the audience. Vishwa Dave

from ‘KaakaMutaai’, the National Award winning

the fashion blogger takes us back to our roots

film that did brilliantly in the box office, setting

fashionably, in the lifestyle section. Witness Chef

an example for real cinema. Our young cover

and CEO of ‘The Table’, Shriram Rajendran mix

stars were recognised by many for their charm

business with pleasure. ‘Cascading Mirth’ gives

and natural screen presence. Meeting them, we

you all details about touring the best waterfalls in

almost fell in love! I’m positive you will too once

the world. ‘Muted Mastery’ is yet another travel

you read the cover story. With so much talent

story on Silent Valley, closer to town. Read on!

should come equal opportunity, but it rarely does.

As everyone celebrate the talent of these kids, you can’t help but wonder how much talent is still

The Brew Magazine is based on the Lifestyle and Entertainment genre and has seen stupendous growth in the past four and a half years of its existence. Based on its tagline ‘Contemplate. Create.

Live’, it urges readers to contemplate, create and live- in that order. Featuring human interest stories, articles about the most famed artists and elite lifestyle stories, we are immaculately selective about our content. With the support of the advisory and contributory board comprising of a team of great individuals, we host a minimum of eight events a year as well.

Sameer Bharat Ram Publisher and CEO

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Vilani Senthamil Editor

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CONTRIBUTORS & ADVISORY BOARD Thota Tharani A senior Indian film art director and production designer who has worked in Tamil cinema, Telugu cinema, Malayalam cinema and Bollywood. He has won two National Film Awards, two Filmfare Awards South and four Tamil Nadu State Film Awards. His work consists of paintings, murals, paper collages, wooden montages, installations and so on

G Venket Ram A leading Indian fashion photographer, who has shot principal photography stills for several notable films as well as portfolios. He quit his engineering studies to work with cinematographers for a while, after which he joined a course in Visual Communication at Loyola College. He then worked with photographer Sharad Haksar and in 1993, started his own studio

Mallika Sarabhai Educated as an economist and business manager, she is one of India’s best-known classical dancers. She has taken her work and her company ‘Darpana’ to not only over 90 countries around the world, but also to the most remote parts of India

Neeru Nanda A graduate from Delhi University, she’s passionate about writing.

She freelanced as a feature writer for ten years before switching to publishing.

Author of a collection of short stories titled ‘IF’, she has also worked on novels and short stories of children

COVER CREDITS Photographer Maheshwar Singh LOCATION Hablis Hotel, Guindy

INTERNAL TEAM FEATURES WRITER Sanjana Ganesh Senior Designer Jesu Durai Junior Designer Vijay Singh Nathawat Circulation Head Sasi Kumar

Ashok Verghese One of the youngest education entrepreneurs who is making a great difference in this field in the country. He is the Director of the Hindustan group of Institutions, one of the pioneering educational groups in the country. He supports the cause of promoting young talent in art and music

Veejay Sai An award-winning writer, editor and a culture critic. He has written and published extensively on Indian classical music, fashion, theatre, food and art, and loves traveling, researching literary and cultural history. He is an editorial consultant with over 40 brands and designers in and outside India and is on the jury for several prestigious awards in the arts sector across the country

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Mail to editor.thebrewmagazine@ gmail.com for advertisement queries/feedback

By vilani senthamil | May 2015 | Brew lIFE STYLE & entertainment | 8

C o n t e n t s

Contemplate Forging shields Witness Pooja Malhotra establish a self-defence curriculum for schoolgirls

Phenomenal Woman Visually challenged Beno Zephine lands the IFS post after securing the 343rd rank in the Civil Services examination

Create Spicing up the coffee The band ‘Masala Coffee’ is all set to take the music industry by storm

Time Travel Artist Santhana Krishnan paints doors that take you back in time

SUPERHEROES Vignesh and Ramesh of ‘Kaaka Muttai’ chat about life and other adventures

Footloose Anusha Swamy, the shining dance choreographer gets candid

Live Mission Infusion Fashion blogger Vishwa Dave gives fashion tips from the 80’s

On top of The Table Discover the joy of ecstasy with Chef and CEO of ‘The Table’, Shriram Rajendran

Recipe of the month Cook the dish of July from the Great Foodie Calendar, of GRT Hotels and Resorts

Muted Mastery Pack a backpack and getaway to Silent Valley

Cascading Mirth The best waterfalls in the world will leave you longing for more

Brew Picks What’s new in town?

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Vajra is a non-profit organisation that partners with corporation schools to train students to defend themselves. The founder, Pooja Malhotra expresses how crucial this is.

In conversation with Vilani Senthamil

FORGING

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evolting episodes of molestation, rape and assault have been doing the rounds for quite sometime now. Though we were outraged in the beginning, we have unfortunately become ignorant, or even nonchalant on hearing about such occurrences. Aren’t we all, in a way, accessories to murder? If not that, we discard our bouts of anger in forms of posts on social media and that’s that. Is this of any help? Pooja Malhotra, Founder of Vajra, explains how important it is to act on our righteousness. Let’s take a look at what Vajra does to rectify the same.

VULNERABLE NO MORE With creativity that knows no bounds, Pooja Malhotra has managed several prestigious events, concerts and plays starring phenomenal celebrities from the country- Nazeerudhin Shah, Farhan Akhtar, Rajath Kapoor, Akshay Kumar, to name a few. During the discussion of one such event, the topic moved on to how helpless young girls are being traumatised. Like for how for all of us a powerful discussion stays in mind throughout the day, this too lingered on Pooja’s mind. However, unlike all of us, a plan began to take shape in the back of her mind. Sleeping on it, she woke up the next day with a will that will never be broken. She met the Commissioner of Corporations that very day and proposed her idea. She was immediately permitted to take it forward. “I wanted to train young girls to defend themselves though the ‘Krav Maga’ technique. The commissioner asked me to start out with one corporation school, and if it was effective to proceed to others”.

That’s the story of how Vajra, a non-profit organisation that trains students on self defence techniques came into being.

BRACE YOURSELF Students from 8th Standard to 12th Standard are trained to protect themselves.‘Krav Maga’ is not just like learning karate or kickboxing. This is about how to protect yourself when you find yourself in unexpected violent circumstances. You can’t fight in such a

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situation, because in reality, you are always taken by surprise. No one really trains you for that. Imagine this. You are all alone, and a man who is six foot tall and burly is standing right in front of you with the sole intention of hurting you.

Vajra prepares them mentally and physically to face a dire situation.

“If you take a cab and the driver takes a strange route and begins to threaten you, there is a certain spot in the neck which on one sharp strike can hurt him and leave him in agony for a minute, giving you enough time to escape the car or call for help. If you know driving, you will have enough time to pull him out, take the car and get away to a safe distance. There are sensitive points in the body that can stun a person and ‘Vajra’ trains young girls to learn what these are.

At the end of the year we grade the kids. We give them medals and prizes to motivate them”.

They educate boys in a different

manner. Ascertaining to them that villages to learn the technique. Providing free all girls, or all humans must be accommodation, food and transport for the respected equally and without any teachers, they ensure that this reaches and partiality. “By imparting the right empowers students from rural backgrounds morale to boys and training girls as well. It’s obvious that their efforts will be by learning to protect themselves, reflected in the society in the future. Clever this problem will become and creative, Pooja plans well, as she reveals, inconsequential. We also meet up “We also conduct weekend camps in colleges, with the parents of the students so students can learn the basics. After 12th we train, twice a year. They are Standard most girls from corporation schools counselled on how they should do not go to work. So I decided to treat each other with give them training for free in “The respect, so that students self-defence. They can join will learn from them the team of trainers and ultimate directly. Violent make a decent living goal is to behaviour, swear for themselves. Some make self words or even of them work part defence training a mutiny between time in gyms because spouses can disturb they have free time in permanent subject a child’s morale. hand!” in all the schools The family as a in India” whole is educated and DON’T YOU taught the importance QUIT of this”.

Vajra is not limited to just Their ultimate goal is to make this urban students. They invite PT a permanent subject in all the schools in teachers of Government schools in India. “We got good feedback after the end of 2014, our first year. The report of our performance in the first school was submitted to the commissioner. This year, with the help of my friends we adopted 15 schools.

The next target is all the schools in the city.

That’s why I am managing a lot of events this year; all the money from the events is going to this project”. They want to make this a compulsory subject in all schools- be it private or government. “All children need to learn to defend themselves, because they can face the consequences anywhere, at any given time”, concludes Pooja.

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Phenomenal

WOMAN An hour with Beno Zephine. N. L proves that she has seen more of the world through her grit and dexterity than those of us blessed with sight. Beno, a visually challenged student who managed to procure the 343rd rank in the Civil Services Examination conducted in the year 2013 says, “I’m a woman, phenomenally.

Phenomenal woman, that’s me”. Read on as she recounts her journey and envisages her future. In conversation with Sanjana Ganesh

She was never a caged bird who sang

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his twenty five year old free spirited woman has been a great orator and a voracious reader all her life. Her competitive spirit is not new to the world as she stood state first in her 10th standard board exams among the blind candidates.

Dissatisfied with her dream to be state first in the general category, she promised

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she cleared the preliminary level with ease. However, a series of misfortunate events followed and she was unable to cross the second hurdle. “I learnt a lot when I lost the first time. I was dejected because all decisions were made keeping civil services in mind. I picked myself up as I am normally a person who focuses on the future.” She said as she understood the sublime nature of things.

Determination was now stronger than ever. She studied hard and cleared the first two levels again. The dreaded personality assessment interview took place in Delhi which she passed with flying colours. “I have my own individuality and I respect it. Only if I believe in something will I do it” she answers, when asked about her planning and strategy. Beno Zephine then scored the 343rd rank. She was truly touched by an angel.

Kin

“We all need to contribute in the smallest way we can in order to develop this country”

to work harder. Upon noticing that blind students got little or no attention and aid though they worked hard in their board exams, Beno approached the then Chief Minister. “Parents of blind children from rural areas are not motivated to send their children to school because of the lack of facilities. I wanted to show that it was possible to do well.”

Her proposal reaped her great fruits as aid both monetary and physical was provided to the top scorers from Tamil medium schools the following year.

“Right from a young age, my friends used to tease me saying ‘Collector amma has come’ because I used to ask them not to waste water, to switch the fans off, etc. I was very interested in subjects like economics and Geography and these are featured predominantly in Civil Services. I knew that this was my calling. I told my parents that this was my aim. No one questioned me as to how and why I should pursue it”. It was a collective effort and all hands were on deck. She was selected to attend the Global Young Leaders conference in USA the very same year and gave a speech where she said “I may not have vision but I have the vision to be an IAS officer.”

Touched by an angel

She decided to let the college experience unfold and had fun being a part of all the extra-curricular activities. She was the Master of Ceremonies for several events. It was a beautiful phase but she had to get her head in the game. She was doing her masters in English Literature when she first attempted her UPSC exam. Hopes were high as

Beno has received overwhelming support from her family. Her father, N. L. Luke Anthony Charles helped her trough every step of the way. He brailed her books and gave her the ‘never say die spirit’ she possesses. Her mother N. L. Mary Padmaja used to read to her for six hours every day.

Her sincerity moves Beno. Her joint family integrates in order to see her prosper. She feels blessed by their presence.

Still I rise

Beno currently works at the State Bank of India, a job she secured by successfully passing her bank exams. She starts her IAS officer training in the month of September and is looking forward to it. “We all need to contribute in the smallest way we can in order to develop this country. We have several resources to protect. People are still unaware of the fact that they have several rights that they can demand.” Ignorance has plagued mankind. She asks people to read and be aware of the current state of the country’s affairs. It is now understood that what is generally unfathomable is within the reach of one’s arm if only one tries. Beno promises to be her best when she takes up her post. “I will do what is necessary and within my means” she says beaming with steadfastness.

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Spicing UP THE

Coffee

The strong flavours of Masala Coffee, the music band are taking the music scene by storm.

Let’s see how they are managing to do so. By Sanjana Ganesh

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asala and coffee? Sounds like a strange mix to a south Indian. This nine member band from different parts of the country is adding some great flavours and is brewing some great tunes. Catch the conversation with their vocalist and percussionist Varun Sunil as he speaks about the band way of life.

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Why ‘masala coffee’?

Tell us about the kind of music you play. How is a typical ‘Masala Coffee’ jam session?

The name says it all. We are a masala of genres, hence ‘Masala Coffee’. We play all types of music such as rock, contemporary fusion, world music, funk, blues, western classical and Latin American too. We either meet in Bangalore, Mumbai or Kochi to jam. We work on a vast number of songs and rehearse. For two days, we only post produce work.

Being a part of a band is very different from performing as a freelance individual as everyone must come together at a given point in time to work on all the songs. It has the possibility of breaking up and going in several directions. We don’t think that will happen to us as we are very good friends who come together for the music family.

Can you give us a brief history of the band?

All the members of the band are very experienced musicians in the circuit. They have been in the field for ages. Before the band was officially created, we would find time to jam once in a while. Being musicians from different parts of the country, we decided to come together and do a session in Kappa TV’s show ‘Music Mojo’. I called a few friends of mine as we were interested in exploring the scene and

“We are making the music for a Tamil feature film called ‘Uriyadi’ and are pumped up about it” ended up doing an episode in the 2nd and 3rd season of the show. We came to be called ‘Masala Coffee’ ever since.

Choose between doing covers and sitting down to write your own songs. Do you think that the instant gratification given by the audience nowadays plays on the psyche of a musician?

Any good musician would love to create music of his own. However, if one decides to spin off and do a cover, due justice must be given.

When we sat down to do the cover of ‘Munbeva’, a song from Sillunu Oru Kadhal by A. R. Rahman, I was very conscious about retaining the beauty of it. However, ‘Kantha’ which is a Malayalam folk song gained immense popularity as well. We are happy doing both. Of course, instant gratification plays on the mind always. Musicians who are considered great normally equip themselves to newer times. Take the example of A. R. Rahman who changed according to the generation.

That is how he got his identity. Music culture is evolving and the audience play a crucial role in defining the standards of music.

What is the best and the worst part about performing a live show?

The first good thing about a live show is instant validation and selfsatisfaction. Creating a song in a smaller environment is more easy than replicating it on stage. People

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can judge the performer’s standards during a live show. The attitude on stage is difficult to achieve in the beginning but it becomes great once you get used to it. The worst part is when there isn’t good sound or monitoring on stage. The reputation of a person can scale down in seconds due to poor sound quality.

Who are your musical influences?

We all admire several different musicians. Take the example of our vocalist Suraj who is a Carnatic singer. He loves Yesudas and Balamuralikrishna. However, I am a trained percussionist. I love listening to Spanish and American drummers such as Giovani Hidalgo. Trilok Gurtu is a Jazz percussionist who is brilliant.

Several others such as Zakhir Hussain, A. R. Rahman, Coldplay and Michel Jackson have defined music for me.

What are your future projects and what advice do you have for youngsters venturing into the music scene?

We are performing in a few places such as Chennai and Bangalore soon.

We are also coming out with an album that features several musicians such as Shankar Tucker and Raghu Dixit. We are performing two songs for ‘Music Mojo’, one of which is called Mounamor silence. We are also making the music for a Tamil film called ‘Uriyadi’ and are pumped up about it.

As for the advice, work hard. That’s all I have to say.

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Time

travel R Artist Santhana Krishnan paints doors that take you back in time, standing alone in a world of many artists.

By Vilani Senthamil

eminiscing on his childhood memories of half open doors from his village in Kumbakonam, Santhana Krishnan tastes success by painting doors to project that very illusion. Combining his real self with a beautiful aesthetic sense, he paints main doors of houses, cupboards and cabinets that get you thinking about the past. He explains how he came about this, his love for art and how preservation of culture is of utmost importance.

OBSERVE Right from his childhood, Santhana Krishnan has had an affiliation for the arts.

Actively taking part in all drawing competitions through his schooling, he realised he wanted to pursue it as his

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“I wanted to bring in my experiences into the work that I do. An abstract can be done by anyone across the world.

Whereas, what I do had to be unique” mainstream career. He then moved on to complete the Bachelor of Fine Arts degree in Kumbakonam. “There used to be a column for artists every Sunday in a newspaper. I would avidly read them, cut them out and file them safely”, he recalls. He completed his Masters and education in the year 2000. Realising that all successful artists had an identity or a style of their own, he wanted to carve a niche for himself. “I wanted to bring in my experiences into the work that I do. An abstract can be done by anyone across the world. Whereas, what I do had to be unique”, he decided.

SKETCH As he completed his Masters, he became sure of what he wanted to. Before westernisation happened, there were so many little things that were a part of our culture.

Santhana describes, “The same vessels were used for three to four generations together, but now we use a vessel for hardly three months. We used to use milk cans but now we use only milk packets. The same way, doors

used to be kept open because our neighbours used to be our closest friends. If we were stepping out for sometime we would just inform them and take off, leaving our main doors open.

From outside, a passer-by can see the entrance, the ‘mutham’ or courtyard, and sometimes even the back entrance through the open doors”. With an intention to recreate that and preserve that tradition, the artist took it upon himself to painting doors from his memory, practicing on making them look 3 dimensional.

FILL It’s surprising how people want to be modern, yet long for the past. The artist’s work fulfils both at one go. “It feels great to get feedback from people about my work. There was this one person from the US who has settled there now.

On seeing my work, he was taken back to his memories from when he was in his hometown in India. He was almost shaken up. He wasn’t even an art fanatic, so it felt rewarding to watch his honest reaction to my work”, he smiles. Recognised worldwide for his work, Santhana is currently busy travelling all over the globe and of course, painting doors.

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The new

SUPER HEROES in town!

It took all but two month for Vignesh (15) and Ramesh (12),to wrap up the shoot of ‘Kaaka Muttai’ that has won 2 national awards.

Recognised globally for their genuine acting and natural screen presence, these kids have become superstars overnight. They talk about their favourite actors, their homes right by the sea and their mutual dislike for Pizza.

In conversation with Vilani Senthamil

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“They saw us playing in our area (Kasimedu) and took pictures of us. We didn’t think it was a big deal because many short film directors have done this before” Vignesh and Ramesh stroll in to the rooftop of Hablis Hotel, Guindy and their eyes light up as they take in the beautiful view. “This is great!” exclaims Vignesh with enthusiasm that catches on. Ramesh seems to be the quieter one, keeping in tow with Vignesh, much like in the movie. He looks at me and then looks at the pool nearby, and I immediately reckon he wants to swim. I ask him if he knows how to and he retorts, “I love swimming. The sea is right outside my house. I can go and take a dip whenever I want to!” flashing his million dollar smile in full spirit. And just like that, we become friends.

Only after Director Manikandan convinced their parents did they begin acting in his film. “They saw us playing in our area (Kasimedu) and took pictures of us. We didn’t think it was a big deal because many short film directors have done this before”, says Vignesh in the blink of an eyelid. The shoot began in their summer vacation and ended in 2 months. “They trained us to act for some days. The Director taught us to react according to the sounds they make. If we hear a clap we have to smile, and other signs like that. The main thing is we should never look straight at the camera”, Ramesh explains earnestly as he wants to make sure I understand his every word.

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“The other scene I like is the one where we stand outside of City Centre and say ‘They definitely won’t let us inside’ because that is what happens in reality” Vignesh and Ramesh completed all their takes very quickly. “They shot the movie in our area. If we messed up, we wouldn’t hear the end of it”, says Vignesh. Ramesh is quick to agree, “Yes, that’s why we finished quickly”. After the shoot they continued to attend their Corporation school in Kasimedu. Vignesh foresees my next question and says, “I want to study right now, and maybe after college I will act again. I don’t know.”

A movie filled with humorous incidents, scenes from ‘Kaaka Muttai’ linger on our minds long after the movie is over. Vignesh and Ramesh exchange views of their favourite scenes with each other. “The funniest scene is where the drunk man falls down from the small vehicle we use to take him back to his house” laughs Vignesh. Ramesh retorts, “No, I loved all the scenes. I cannot choose just one.” Vignesh looks back at me and says, “The other scene I like is the one where we stand outside of City Centre and say ‘They definitely won’t let us inside’ because that is what happens in reality”.

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“I love Ajith too.

See, even my haircut is like his” - Dhessappan Vignesh strikes different poses with ease for the photographer to capture. He chides the watchful Ramesh, “Don’t take it too easy. It’s your turn next”.

Ramesh’s favourite actor is Dhanush. When he met Dhanush in person he could not believe his eyes and asked if he was the real Dhanush or a body double.

“I pinched him to make sure he was real”, he says.

Vignesh on the other hand, is an avid fan of Ajith Kumar.

The other two kids who played supporting roles in the movie, Dhessappan and Priya stood all geared up for their picture to be taken. Keeping the conversation alive, Dhessappan took it upon himself to be the leader of the group. “I love Ajith too. See, even my haircut is like his”, he shows off. Priya has decided to become an actress. She lowers her eyelashes, thinks, then looks up and says, “I can act. I love dancing. So I think I can

“I can act. I love dancing. So I think I can become a good actress” Priya

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become a good actress”.

As we chit chat about all of the topics under the sun, the kids fall silent as a flight flies overhead to the nearby airport. Ramesh says, “When we got the award, we went in the plane. It doesn’t make so much noise inside as it does from outside”, he says.

Like how the movie kept our eyes glued to the screen, it was a delight to spend time chatting with the children. I were surprised to see how quickly time flew by.

If you haven’t watched the movie, you have to watch it right away. I, for one, would watch it over and over again.

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“When we got the award, we went in the plane. It doesn’t make so much noise inside as it does from outside”

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FOOTLOOSE She broke, popped, locked and even mudhra-ed.

Meet Anusha Swamy, a 23 year old dancer Choreographer who created waves (and done the move too). In conversation with Sanjana Ganesh

Y

ou can dance, you can jive, having the time of your life” crooned ABBA as they belted out their chart buster ‘Dancing queen’ in the year 1976. Clearly, Anusha Swamy learnt the lyrics quickly enough to follow them to the T. Was a dancing queen born, you ask? Watch her dance and you’d know. Having learnt a variety of styles, Anusha has choreographed songs for various movies and shows.

She sings, paints, stiches, teaches and even has her own YouTube channel. Read on to find out more about how this dynamic personality came into being as she speaks about dance and the paraphernalia surrounding it.

REMEMBER THE TIME Growing up in a staunch Tam-brahm set up, Anusha Swamy was a victim of the series of classes that her enthusiastic parents decided to put her into. Upon her violinist-grandmother’s advice, the six year old Anusha went to music class reluctantly. She trudged as she walked but eventually found her way to a dance class.

Everyday henceforth, she would bunk her music class and watch the bharatnatyam dancer gracefully move to the beat of the natuvangam. After a series of tantrums, she worked out a deal with her parents who stated that she could have the best of both worlds if she worked her way up. She learnt kuchupudi in school as she studied in

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Hyderabad and continued Bharatnatyam for four more years until she decided to move back to Chennai.

The change of cities led to a change of heart. She decided to focus solely on Kuchupudi as she learnt from the renowned Dr. Vempati Chinna Satyam from the year 2000.

BLACK OR WHITE “I started doing western dance in the later years of school. You get very inspired after looking at films and celebrities and want to dance like Prabudeva. It was very new for me to experience that style. Back in the day, it was quite expensive to learn western dance as it was for a certain section.

When I was in my eleventh standard, I learnt Latin American and Ballroom from choreographer Jeffrey Warden.

Things changed ever since”.

may be because of several reasons but it has certainly been detrimental.”

BEAT IT After having worked with the big stars such as Rajinikanth, Akon, Shahid Kapoor, and others, Anusha feels that the industry is often hero centric.

Their capabilities rule the director’s perspective. “There are very few people in the cinema industry who are willing to experiment. The space to ‘do as you please’ is quite limited. However, I can’t complain. I play a five minute role in the entire sequence of things”.

“The film industry is very welcoming but the people aren’t kind. I was hardly 20 years old when I was working with a choreographer who thought I was unlucky and refused to further work with me. I wasn’t informed about my dismissal but the word got around. I was shocked to hear that”. There have been rough patches but she has gotten along just fine and has carved her way up to the top. She has moved mountains and has certainly touched hearts in the process with her carefree attitude.

Having been associated with several works of charity, this proud dancer works towards ‘healing the world and making it a better place’. Michael Jackson ruled her dancing era, she hopes to rule ours. Here’s wishing her all the luck.

They did indeed. After a bunch of dance shows and being assistant choreographer, Anusha Swamy became the youngest choreographer in India to graduate from the Cine and TV Dancers and Dance Directors’ Association (Chennai).

MAN IN THE MIRROR “Frankly, dance is where I connect to the universe”, he says when asked about whether she associates a certain ideology to herself. While distinguishing dancing styles with respect to her comfort zone, Anusha quips that classical dancing is where she feels most at home. “I don’t believe in a structured way of learning and do not believe that an arangetram signifies one’s knowledge. It has always been the end of an era.” The precision, the history and the happiness she gains from kuchupudi is immense. Western dance lets her to be loose and dance to her tunes. The fluid sense of freedom has found a special place in her heart.

“Frankly, dance is where I connect to the universe”

However, she feels strongly about the changed perspective that people hold towards dancing due the film making.

“Choreographers do not stay true to their selves when they dance in films. It

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MISSION Scene: An Indian woman is getting married to a handsome British man. It is an exquisite white wedding done the Indian way. You are surrounded by fancy men and their fancier accents. Your wardrobe is brimming with clothes but you have NOTHING to wear.

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Sounds pitiful, doesn’t it? Mission Infusion, should solve that problem.

Read on to find out the perfect ways to work around different fabric, jewellery and hues to perfect the Desi in you and show some unimaginable western flair. Vishwa Dave provides inputs.

SUIT UP THAT JUMP THAT DHOTI DHO Dhoti pants are the favour of the season. This garment has been made to maximise comfort.

Stretch your legs out for a yoga session, wear a chic crop top. This one is for all outfits. You could also team it up with peplem tops or short denim jackets to turn things around.

COVER IT UP Anarkali went to places other than the disco (The song is ringing in your head, isn’t it?) and certainly worked well with presenting itself as a jacket. Pair a plain spaghetti top with a fitted pair of pants or skinny jeans. Top it off with a long anarkali jacket. This can work for any party occasion.

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Any neutral but bold coloured jumpsuit should work fabulously with some antique Indian jewellery.

Statement necklaces such as silverware, maangtikas or chandbaalis will make you look like the definition of ‘best of both worlds’.

This attire would find itself being best appreciated at Sangeeths and cocktail parties.

OFFICER FASHION

Are you bored about not being able to strike the right balance between a pencil skirt and a kurta top? Have no fear, palazzo is here.

Though one normally teams these pants with a crop top, it would look great with a short kurta too.

SARI NOT SORRY

Who would have thought Trench coats would find themselves worn atop a sari? Abraham and Thakore honed the perfect method to making a sexy and normally ‘open’ sari, acquainted to the cold.

This look is best expressed when worn with a minimal blouse and a wide belt over the middle area to hold the coat and the sari together. Remember: When in doubt, go Indian.

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On top of The Table

Pastry Chef Shriram Rajendran is one to reckon with, as he creates the ultimate jar of euphoria. Vilani Senthamil discovers more about his brainchild ‘The Table’ and its many creations.

The dessert jar concocted with yum flavours, different textures, multiple layers and possibly a sprinkling of fairy dust is gaining a whole lot of attention. CEO and Chef of Cassandra Foods Pvt. Ltd, Shriram Rajendran talks about ‘The Table’ and his plans in store for the future.

NOT A CAKEWALK After graduating from Loyola with a degree in Bachelor of Commerce, Shriram proceeded to pursue a degree in London. This time though, he pursued a degree that would identify with his true calling- food.

Since then, there has been no turning back. With a team of ten Chefs, Shriram is now the connoisseur of the dessert jar that is being distributed in many cafes and restaurants across Chennai. What makes it so special?

Well, not only is it delicious, it has innovative flavours; it’s easy to carry around, it’s got great quantity and is fuss-free! “I wanted to create a simple and convenient dessert without compromising on the taste”, quotes Shriram.

ICING ON THE CAKE Their very first innovation received a warm response.

Asking Shriram if he is geared up to launch another exciting creation, he answers, “I’m working on a dessert jar that focuses on health and nutrition.

It’s a breakfast dessert jar and will be called ‘Healthy Start’.

We are going to go retail soon, so my team and I are working our hardest everyday to get it going”. He reveals that they are working on creating ice-creams too, to move away from desserts in a jar, all set to capture another domain.

FUTURE FODDER Chennai is an evolving market. It’s the right time to bring in innovations.

Shriram agrees, “I wouldn’t think of bringing in a completely new dish because I don’t think the Chennai crowd is ready for it yet. It’s not yet as evolved as Bangalore, but we are getting there”. He has big plans for the future and talking to him, it’s evident he’ll get where he wants to be. “We are expanding to Coimbatore and Cochin. Within a year’s time, we want to capture the Mumbai and Delhi market as well”, he surmises.

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Recipe for the month of July from the Great Foodie calendar, a brainchild of GRT hotels & resorts

i t t a k l a a P

u p Up

Melagu INGREDIENTS

MARINATION n 400 gm paalkatti (paneer/

Indian cottege cheese) n 50 gm hung curd n 30 gm ginger garlic paste n Salt to taste n 5 gm chilli powder n 3 gm garam masala powder n 30 ml oil

TOSSING n 60 gm chopped onion n 10 gm chopped garlic n 2 gm fennel n 2 gm cumin n 5 gm dried red chilli whole n 5 gm chopped curry leaves n 50 ml oil n 10 gm crushed black

pepper n Salt to taste

GARNISH n Fried red chilli n Curry leaves

METHOD

n Marinate the cottage cheese

with hung curd, ginger garlic paste, chilli powder, garam masala powder, oil, salt and let it rest for 30 minutes.

n Skewer the marinated paneer and roast it in the

tandoor until done. Remove and cut to desired shape. n In a wide bottom pan, heat oil and temper fennel,

cumin, whole red chilli, chopped garlic, onion and curry leaves. n Stir fry until garlic and onion turns transparent. n Add the cut paneer tikka, salt, crushed black pepper

and toss well on a high flame until well blended. n Serve hot as a starter or accompaniment.

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MUTED MASTERY SILENT VALLEY NATIONAL PARK, KERALA Is the city traffic chewing your ear off and driving you up the wall?

Nature is calling out to you trough ultra-sonic waves. A visit to Silent Valley National Park will leave you at a loss for words.

Compiled by Sanjana Ganesh India’s best kept secret, spreads over a total area of over 90 kms and hosts the most vibrant types of flora and fauna.

The visit can take place only between 8 AM- 1PM. The valley’s national park may be closed during monsoon time but is enjoyable between the months of December and March.

EAT

STAY

DO

Sairandri Restaurant This hotel is a part of ‘The Tree Top Resort’ and serves delicious food.

They customise nutrition requirements in case there are children or elders and aim at appeasing the pallet.

Inspection Bungalow This bungalow at Mukkali is said to be by the river Bhawani and provides a picturesque view. It is blanketed by greenery and gives you a view of the world that waschlorophyll filled.

Trekking The national park is best known for its mystical trekking trails as it gives you a view of the Kunti river that flows through the forest and keeps the ecology alive.

Vision Nature Resorts Vision Nature Resorts is said to be calm and relaxing. The view of the mountains from this region is great.

It is an hour away from Silent Valley National Park.

Animal/Bird watching Hosts a rich biodiversity of over 16 bird and 34 animal species. This is every nature lover’s haven. You may chance upon tiger prints.

Malleeshwaram Jungle Lodge Set amidst plantations, this lodge is the home to several species of butterflies and birds. It is run by an ecologist who understands the critical need to save the environment and is half an hour away from the park.

Bathing in the Bhawani River Nothing says ‘nature’ than a dip in a river. River Bhawani originates in the Silent valley.

The streams are clean and the water is refreshing. What are you waiting for? Jump right in!

Silent Valley Restaurant This restaurant is around Chikamangalur and serves freshly prepared food. It works around the schedule of those travelling for the purpose of treks.

Local eateries To understand the taste of real Kerala, visit Mukklai and eat from the hole in the wall joints that serve you authentic dishes of the region. Breakfast is normally the best meal of the day.

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Cascading

mirth

It’s a very rare phenomenon to lose all sense of time while doing nothing. This happens to everyone though, when they get a chance to stare into a brilliant cascade of water. An endless downpour that creates a fresh cold mist all over; falling on jagged rocks, which flow into large bodies of water that diverge to multiple contrasting mild streams, waterfalls are mind-blowingly beautiful.

Chance upon the best three waterfalls of the world to grasp how staggering nature can be. Compiled by Vilani Senthamil

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IGUAZO FALLS, BRAZIL & ARGENTINA Iguazo falls in Brazil is known to be the best waterfall in the world, hands down. This fringe is about 2 kilometres long surrounded by green rainforests to compliment the beauty that it is. 275 different streams and rivers of water meet on common ground, pouring down a steep cliff at a speed of 1000 cubic meters per second. Twice as wide as the Niagara Falls, and much taller, this one should definitely go on the bucket list of every fellow traveller.

EAT

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If you love small pockets of yummy food, junk food stalls are dotted all over the Brazilian National Park. Eat some, take a walk, behold the view and get packing.

Hotel Das Cateratas Perched atop the waterfalls inside the Brazilian Nature Park, this is a classic luxury hotel with has an outdoor swimming pool, niche dining corners and of course, the Iguazo Falls right by.

Healthy food is served at the rooftop of The Sheraton Hotel in the park. You can also sight rare birds flying over the falls from the restaurant. Grab a pair of binoculars and dig in.

http://www.belmond.com/hotel-dascataratas-iguassu-falls/

Boat trips can be made under the falls both from the Argentinian and Brazilian sides. It gets rocky towards the base of the Falls, so you are taken almost near it. At the end of it you’ll be both amazed and drenched from head to toe.

Continental Inn Hotel Modern and stylish, pick this hotel if the Iguazo Falls is adventurous enough for you! It’s a safe haven that leads back to the real world.

Sports like abseiling, white water rafting and much more take place at Las Cateratas.

Don’t forget to bargain and get a good price!

http://www.continentalinn.com.br/

Safari rides in the nearby jungles on monster trucks will be fun. Thick flora and fauna, a rocky ride and a picnic in the lush green parks are a bonus. What’s more, the thundering sound of the water falling on the rocks make for great ambient music.

A buffet at the Porto Canoas is a great place to eat as you will be feasting upon food with the Falls right under your feet, almost.

Sheraton International Iguazo Resort You can walk right up to the cascade, that’s how close the resort is to the Falls.

A dip in the pool and a walk over to the Falls sounds perfect, doesn’t it? http://www.starwoodhotels.com/ sheraton/property/overview/index.htm l?propertyID=1152&language=en_US

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VICTORIA FALLS, ZAMBIA & ZIMBABVE Why is it that the Victoria Falls is considered as one of the top seven natural wonders of the world? The highest and fastest waterfall creates a mist that thunders, literally. If you can see past the mist at the water falling below, your jaws will drop to the floor. The local people refer to it as ‘Mosi-oa-Tunya’, or the mist that thunders. It has been preserved in its natural state.

Pay a visit to these Falls as without commercialisation, you get the real deal.

EAT

STAY

DO

Sip on an afternoon tea and look over at the vista of the Victoria Falls Bridge on Stanley’s Terrace.

The Victoria Falls Hotel Secluded and vintage, The Victoria Falls Hotel is called ‘the grand old lady of the Falls’. Swim in the vast pool that look over grand gardens to get your money’s worth and more.

‘Flight of Angels’ provides a splendid view of the many islands, the fast river and the Falls. You can even opt for micro lighting to get a closeup view of the Falls.

http://www.victoriafallshotel.co/

The Victoria Falls National Park and Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park have to be visited for its abundant wildlife. Above the Falls you can indulge in the popular pastime of game viewing from boats or open vehicles.

Boma- Place of Eating, gives you a real taste of local culture. Providing the tastiest of African meals, this restaurant is always packed, so don’t forget to book a table.

Makuwa-kuwa restaurant is for luxe diners. Have a meal here to empty your pockets and fulfill your appetite.

Lokuthula Lodges Lokuthula pronounced ‘Lock-oo-toola’ has a spread of quaint cottages in the midst of lush green lawns.

You can spot elephants and hyenas roaming on the lawns too! http://www.africaalbidatourism. com/safari-lodges/lokuthula-lodges The Kingdom Hotel Situated within the Victoria Falls National Park, this Hotel is out and out designed for tourists. Spa, parlour, pools for kids and adults, nightclubs, restaurants- it’s perfect if you’re with family. http://www.africansunhotels.com/

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Usual activities like canoeing, kayaking, rafting, fishing and jungle safaris are open to tourists. The best bet is to couple these activities with a perfect meal at Livingstone’s Island nearby.

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NIAGARA FALLS, CANADA & USA Most famous waterfall in the world, the Niagara is phenomenal.

The biggest one by volume with an average of 7000 cubic meters per second, the Falls is also very easy to look at. There is no denying that it makes a lasting impression at first glance, with its sheer power and grandeur. Surrounded by the best of Hotels and Restaurants, this Falls has been integrated to suit the needs of tourists.

EAT

STAY

DO

You haven’t tasted the best of Italian cuisine if you havent dined at Casa Mia Restaurant. To add to that, they offer a complimentary shuttle service to and from your hotel.

Marriott Fallsview A great view of the falls, premium stay and leisure is guaranteed here. Known for its great service, the Marriott Fallsview will be ideal for all travellers alike.

Niagara’s ‘Maid of the Mist’ boat tour is legendary. You can also take in the Falls from the helicopter tour, the caves and from the view tower.

Cowboy themed, Brasa Brazilian steakhouse is for all the meat lovers. Make sure you go there with an empty stomach or you will not be able to eat as much as you want to!

https://www. niagarafallsmarriott.com/

http://www.brasaniagara. com/

Old Fort Niagara and Marine Land are entertaining and serve as perfect family/group attractions.

Niagara Tower Hotel The architecture with the elevated tower is customised specially to look over at the Falls.

There’s also a great view of the Falls from all the rooms. http://www.niagaratower.com/

Offering out of the world pizzas, it’s not surprising that Antica Pizzeria is always packed. If you are lusting away for a deicious pizza, it’s definitely worth the wait.

The Embassy Suites Overlooking the Horseshoe Falls, this is the closest hotel to the Falls. Staying here you almost feel like you are right in the middle of the Niagara Falls.

Undoubtedly the best choice for anyone travelling just to see the Falls. http://www. embassysuitesniagara.com/

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Visit the Niagara Fallsview Casino if you want to make some money and the Inniskillin Winery if you want to sip on pure Ice Wine.

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PASTA

Fiesta!

‘That Madras Place’ hosted a pasta festival in their outlet in Adyar recently.

Their delicious pastas, namely the Lemon Spaghetti with herby breadcrumbs and Parmesan; Tagliatelle in chunky tomato sauce and sun dried tomatoes; Congile in basil walnut pesto; Penne in creamy tomato mascarpone sauce and Three cheese Mac n Cheese were infused with different flavors that will entice your senses. With the great reception they received for the festival, they have incorporated some of these pasta to their regular menu. The next time you step in there, don’t forget to try out their pasta.

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JEWELS & GLAMOUR

All set to make great sales and please our jewellery lovers, ‘Caratlane’ most popular for being an online brand has opened a store in Nungambakkam. Plush interiors with jewellery laid open, no customer is denied warmth. Diamond jewels beginning from very low prices, with beautiful patterns and interesting shades of stones are available for purchase. There’s no room for second thought, head to the store right away.

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