TGS Life 02/01/2016

PUNE, JANUARY 2, 2016 | www.thegoldensparrow.com

FACE OFF

They might not imitate John Travolta and Nicholas Cage all the way but they get pretty close. Despite hectic schedules, Cosplay enthusiasts pursue their hobby to become someone else and show off their skills to the world

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TGS LIFE JANUARY 2, 2016 PUNE

ENTERTAINMENT

Headbangers, get ready!

Get ready to head-bang to the tunes of these death metal bands.Their music is a blend of melodic riffs, fast tempos, combination of black and death growls and powerful drums

By Zainab Kantawala @kantawalazainab

M

etal music festival Reverse Scenario is coming to the city. The festival aims to treat heavy metal music fans to the best bands from around the country. The line-up includes Dark Helm, Gutslit, Chaos, Halahkuh, Dead Exaltation and Last Rituals. Also joining them would be Undying Inc, the pioneering extreme metal band from Delhi.

HALAHKUH The band gets its name from the legend of Genghis Khan and his successor Halagu Khan. Their music too is inspired from their war-like intent and depicts an intense power. This death and thrash metal band has various musical influences. The band comprises of Subhrajyoti Sarkar on vocals, Chinmay Bokil on the guitar and Prasenjit ‘Bappi’ Paul on drums and percussions.

Their music portrays the harshest moments and the struggles we face in our daily life. “Our songs are a reflection of our thoughts. We try to incorporate the things we go through in daily life through our music,” says the band’s front-man Subhrajyoti.

Halahkuh’s music is inspired by bands like Pantera, Slayer and Decapitated. With extensive use of guitar and drums, the aggression in their music might take you on a hell trip. “Our music is high octane, but with a blend of melodies and something that we relate to,” he says.

GUTSLIT This brutal death grind band from Mumbai is all set to play their loudest, brain smashing numbers.

The band members include Gurdip Singh Narang on bass, Aditya Barve on vocals, Prateek Rajagopal on guitars and Aaron Pinto on drums. The band was formed by four like-minded friends who aimed to create the most high octane music ever. “When we started out in 2007, there was no band that played grind music. People thought of it as some kind of a processed noise being worked out in a studio.

We started off with a song by our favourite band Dying Fetus and it became a rage. Through our music we want people to feel the force of butchery, go in-depth with the torturous mind of a psychopath. It’s about feeling the pain that will hit you with every beat,” says Gurdip.

After having to go through many line-up changes, the band still continues to be a hit with metal music enthusiast all over the country. “We are the first band to have scored extensively with the audiences abroad. The line-up changes have been our low point but we have a good fan base in the country and they have kept us going strong,” he says.

In 2009, the band joined hands with French grind music veterans Pulmonary Fibrosis to release two EPs ‘Contorted Mutilation’. They soon hosted their own metal music festival by the name ‘MeatFeast’.

They also released their debut album that was recorded by a Japanese label. “Our album ‘Skewered in the Sewer’ got an amazing response and we are now working on our full length album which will include eight songs,” adds Gurdip.

DARK HELM This city-based metal band is influenced by music ranging from ambient to death metal. The sixmember band includes Dhairya Anand on vocals, Mohanish Deshmukh and Varun Babbar on guitars, Arijeet Mohapatra on drums,

Shubhrayu De on bass, Aniketh Shankar on keyboards and Raveesh Salelkar on vocals. The progressive death metal band infuses traditional music with modern metal. “The band was set up in 2008, and since then we have been through a lot of changes but we kept coming back strong.

Our music is high pitched with an element of deathcore. We love being storytellers and that shows in our music and lyrics,” says Shubrayu De. Their use of classical instruments, like santoor and sitar, sets them apart.

They bring a fresh mix of unheard sounds to convey their individuality.

“Our album released in 2011 and helped us reach the masses. Our songs are about the journey of a warrior fighting through the sands of Persia, defending his throne and cheating death,” he adds.

They are the first metal band in the country to have released their album abroad. They have been signed by a California-based music production company and they are now working on their second album which is set to release in 2016.

When: January 9 Where: Classic Rock Coffee Co, Kalyani Nagar zainab.kantawalagoldensparrow.com

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TGS LIFE

‘You can make it big in Bollywood even without a godfather’

JANUARY 2, 2016 PUNE

STAGE

From Meerut to Mumbai, from the ramp to the big screen, Krishna Chaturvedi has just begun to chase his dreams

By Salonee Mistry @SaloneeMistry

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n the limelight for the first time with Van Heusen’s India Men’s Week 2011, Krishna Chaturvedi most certainly captured hearts. With dreamy eyes and a chiselled body, the small town boy will soon be making his Bollywood debut. Starring in Sameer Sippy's Ishq Forever, alongside Ruhi Singh, Lisa Ray and Javed Jaffery, the 25- year-old is excited about his first film. “My character in the film is that of a free-spirited traveller who falls in love while on one of his journeys. Even though the schedule was hectic, it was a great experience shooting for the film. The reviews, based on the film's trailer, have been encouraging and now I am both excited and nervous about the film’s release,” he tells TGS. Krishna learned Mixed Martial Arts and almost doubled his gym time to look the part and remain fit

for the action scenes in the film.

Wanting to become a sportsperson and, more specifically, a cricketer as he was growing up, one fashion show was enough to change his mind. He moved to

“It might take time but it does happen for sure.”

- KRISHNA CHATURVEDI

Mumbai about three and a half years ago and had been to several auditions and screen tests before he was cast in this film. “If you have the patience, passion and perseverance for a particular thing, you can most definitely achieve it. You can make it big in Bollywood even without a

godfather. It might take time but it does happen for sure. Having a godfather guarantees an easy start, but after that your journey is determined by what you make of it.

When you achieve everything on your own I am sure that the journey will seem much more worthwhile,” he assures us.

Krishna is grateful for the support that he has got from his parents, without which he would not even have dreamed of achieving so much. When he isn’t working he is either watching a movie or spending time with his close friends.

Talking about his future plans, he says that he would love to work with Ranvir Singh, Deepika Padukone and Sonam Kapoor. He is currently finishing his modelling assignments and will later look at scripts again. His film is set to release in the last week of January. salonee.mistry@ goldensparrow.com

Using the stage for social change Winners of the Rajya Natya Spardha 2015, Pune Division, will stage their play in the city this weekend TGS NEWS SERVICE @TGSWeekly

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hether you want to tell a story or let someone know what you think about an issue, theatre has always been a great medium of communication. Udgar Pune, a 10-year-old theatre group, has brought up the issue of surrogacy and its illegal use through their play Gabhara.

Being commercially legal and economical, surrogacy has been on a rise in the country. The illegal means by which it is been carried out is also on a rise. “We wanted to tell people how surrogacy is a boon if used correctly.

Swamped by hectic schedules and the need to fit into a body image defined by the media, several women are opting for surrogacy. To fulfil this need, young girls are roped into the process and, if an illegal route is followed, it leads to ill-treatment of the surrogate mother. Surrogacy is meant to be a tool for those who could not conceive by natural means and that is all it should be used for,” explains Ramchandra Khatmode, the playwright and director of Gabhara. He was assisted by Vinod Vanve in scripting the play.

Performing on such a sensitive issue requires a lot of research and dedication. Winning the third prize at the Rajya Natya Spardha 2015, Pune Division, was a great form of encouragement for everyone involved with the play. The story revolves around one such case and how it affects the surrogate mothers’ family and the family for whom she is undergoing the surrogacy. Right from

researching the exact meaning of surrogacy to getting the opinions of the youth on the issue, the team did ample research. “As a director, my biggest challenge was to get a committed team of actors together. It took me a while to put together the team. It was also the first time that I was directing a twoact play so there were some initial hurdles, which we managed to overcome as a team,” he says. Although the team members are aged between 22 to 25 years, they managed

to play the roles of 40- and 50-year-olds perfectly, he adds.

ENGINEER TO DIRECTOR Ramchandra has been a part of the entertainment industry for about two years now. A graduate from College of Engineering Pune, the 25 year old was an active part of almost all his college plays.

His play Rang Majha Vegla I won the second prize at Purushottam Karandak in 2012,

while his directorial venture for Firodiya Karandak 2013, Jhim Pori Jhim, won him the best director award. He has also assisted directors Pravin Tarde and Pranit Kulkarni for the film Deool Band, which it theatres last year. Ramchandra recently wrote a play for Abhinav School, Kothrud, called Gosht Prithvi Molachi. The play won the first prize at the Rajya Bal Natya Spardha, 2015.

When: January 3, 4.30 pm Where: Bharat Natya Mandir, Sadashiv Peth

TGS LIFE JANUARY 2, 2016 PUNE

FEATURES

The rhythm is gonna get you

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Taal Inc Rhythm Ensemble collaborates with West African dancer Kero Davila for an energetic workshop

By Salonee Mistry @SaloneeMistry

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counsellor and psychology teacher by profession and a dancer at heart, Kero Davila will conduct Pune’s first West African Dance Workshop next weekend.

Performed to live djembe and dunun drumming, the dance is majestic, intricate and elegant all at the same time. Every movement has a story of its own and the energy is exhilarating. It was the natural, therapeutic characteristic of the dance that made Kero fall in love with it about eight years ago. Studying the dance under the tutelage of a host of dancers in Guinea, Conakry; the source of the Mandingue dance culture, she is doing all she can to spread it across India. Hailing from Monterrey, Mexico, she teaches Psychology at the Universidad Metropolitana de Monterrey by day and is involved with West African Dance with Drum Art, an organisation involved in teaching West African drumming and dance.

As a counsellor, she specialises in Emotional Intelligence and Family Therapy. She has always loved dancing and enjoys Latin American dance forms like Salsa, Merengue and Bachata, but her first love, she promises, will always be West African Dance.

Telling us a little more about the dance form she explains how it goes hand in hand with drumming. After meeting Varun, Grandmaster Djembefola Mamady Keita’s only djembe student and teacher in India and witnessing Taal Inc’s amazing work, it seemed very natural and organic to introduce the dance element in this environment.

This way, she hoped that both aspects would get a chance to grow stronger. “I have witnessed this

collaboration in Mexico and wish for India to have similar experiences. The country is always open to trying new stuff and experimenting. Who knows, one day we may possibly give Bollywood dance a run for its money,” laughs the 32-year-old.

While it may be something she absolutely loves, it is not always easy to teach the dance form since it requires the dancer to listen very carefully to the drummer and understand the rhythms as well. Recollecting the days when she had just begun learning she says, “There were many things that were difficult when I started off. Since the dance is physically and emotionally demanding, I had to ensure I was fit, eating well and exercising regularly. These are the prerequisites of being a successful West African or Afro dancer.” Keita did not always have good teachers and hence had to constantly travel to new countries in order to learn.

She truly believes in never giving up or settling for anything less than the best no matter what the cost. The hard work will eventually pay off, she assures aspiring dancers.

Kero met Varun in Monterrey at a special study workshop organised for the Teachers of Tam Tam Mandingue International Djembe Academy.

They got talking and after a few interactions and a lot of planning, she flew down to India to teach the dance. Last weekend, they conducted a workshop in Mumbai too. The two-day workshop in Pune is open to all levels of students, dance enthusiasts and dancers. The event will also feature live drumming led by Varun Venkit and the Taal Inc Rhythm Ensemble.

When: January 9 and 10 Where: Artsphere, Kalyani Nagar Get in touch: 9049690101 or 9595680886 salonee.mistry@goldensparrow.com

Calling all baraatis on board Read all about the most splendid wedding of the year

By Heena Grover Menon @HeenaGM

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Moulin Rouge-themed sangeet, where Anu Malik had the guests dancing on his hit Bollywood numbers, mehendi with a Kingdom of Dreams theme, a high-flying baraat, followed by a grand wedding and reception that saw politicians and dignitaries from different parts of the country, city-based Abhishek Khinvasara and Indore girl Akruti Bhandari’s 10-day-long wedding ceremony had all the elements that make for a big, fat Indian wedding.

Playing host to this grand affair last month, anchor Nitish Kamdar and Neha Goenka made sure the families and friends of the bride and groom got their dose of uninterrupted entertainment throughout the ceremonies. Nitish, who has been hosting multiple weddings, parties and events in the city for a while now, said that the wedding was one of its kind and something that he had never done before. “Hosting parties and weddings has always been fun but when I was

The baraatis dance on board as anchor Nitish (left) plays latest songs; (left bottom) Abhishek & Akruti

told that I will have to play host to around 300 baraatis from Pune and Mumbai, who were to travel to Indore on a flight, I was thrilled as well as a little nervous. This wasn’t something that I had done before and, initially, I had no clue how I would be able to make the journey fun.”

Once everyone got on board the chartered

plane, Nitish took over the mic from the flight attendant - who he says were extremely polite – and played popular dance numbers off his mobile phone. From children to the elder members of the family, relatives and friends, everybody danced on songs like Abhi toh party shuru hui hai, Banno tera swagger, and so on. “Dancing and making merry at a height of 36,000 ft, it was a perfect ‘love is in the air’ moment for the groom, and I was lucky to have been a part of making this moment special for the entire family. I’m sure the experience will be etched in their hearts forever,” shares Nitish. Inside the flight, every seat and even the cutlery on which the snacks were served

to the guests had the logo of the names of the bride and groom on them. Once the baraatis landed in Indore, the bride’s family had planned a grand welcome at the airport.

The main ceremony saw General Secretary of Indian Congress Party, Digvijay Singh and several other eminent political leaders and reputed businessmen blessing the couple.

This was followed by a reception back in Pune where the bride arrived at the venue in a classic vintage car. The reception was attended by the who’s who of Pune such as Ajit Pawar, Madhuri Misal, Dattaraya Dhankawde among others. heena.grover@goldensparrow.com

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They give telepathy a twist

TGS LIFE JANUARY 2, 2016 PUNE

FEATURES

Four animal telepathy communicators share incredible tales and experiences of their interactions with strays and pets

By Heena Grover Menon @HeenaGM

T

hey always knew they had a connection with animals but the fact that one can actually communicate with them through telepathy is what intrigued them and pushed them to take up the study. Today, Manjiri Latey, Anaida Parvaneh, Devika Kurane and Shalaka Diwanji are some of the most successful animal communicators in the city. They help stray animals in need and resolve pet issues.

After the death of her pet dog, Manjiri started to wonder where his soul had travelled. She did a lot of research and came across a video of a South African animal communicator, Anna Breytenbach, which got her really interested in studying the subject deeply. She took lessons on Skype for a few months and even travelled to America to do some courses. Manjiri is now a practicing telepathic animal communicator and often holds workshops. “I was always aware that this concept existed but I only came to terms with it when, after finishing my certification, I actually began communicating with animals.

In one instance, I got to know about this pug who had started to develop a crooked neck.

Anaida Parvaneh Her owners were really worried and wanted to know what was causing the problem.

When I connected with the dog, she told me in the beginning. Telepathy connection with that there were a lot of changes in the owners, animals made no sense to me at all but since in terms of life perspective, I had paid for the session, I which was directly affecting went ahead. It was during one her. As a result, her neck had of the interactions that Manjiri also started to tilt. Once the gave us a case study of a tiger, family started sorting things who was present in some other out, her neck slowly got back part of the country and we had to its place,” says Manjiri. to give a suggestion of what Most domesticated pets’ we thought about the animal. behaviour depends on their I just tried hard to think and surroundings and the attitude gave some suggestions which of family members, Manjiri she validated. I had images of explains. “There are times a tiger who had died. He was when a pet runs away. It very weak and old when he can simply happen because died. It was after Manjiri told they want to explore their me that I had got exactly what surroundings. That they have had happened to that tiger that - DEVIKA KURANE never had a chance to go out I was amazed and realised that and see the world in years, so this really works,” says Anaida. they just head out,” she adds. Manjiri has Sharing an interesting tale from one of been associated with animals for several her experiences, Anaida once had a bird who years. She is an outdoor education and had laid eggs in her garden. There was a cat experiential learning facilitator through her in the vicinity and once it had eaten the eggs. company, Earthwise.

So, when the bird laid eggs the second time, Singer, poet and artist Anaida has she got really worried thinking if she moved also been working for the well-being the nest elsewhere, the birds will abandon of animals and had undertaken online the eggs. “I tried communicating with the courses to understand animal behavior and birds and took my chance of moving them to communication. She met Manjiri by chance a hanging flower pot thinking that it would and joined the telepathy communication be better than the cat attacking the eggs. To course about six months ago. “I was hesitant my surprise, the birds didn’t abandon the

“These things are quite hard to believe unless you actually experience them.”

Devika Kurane

Manjiri Latey

Shalaka Diwanji

eggs and would sit on the window grill and chirp loudly whenever the cat was around so that whoever was at home would be alerted.

These incidents strengthened my belief that I could actually connect with the living beings,” says Anaida.

For Devika, who has been living in Mumbai for the past five years, the reason why she undertook this course was her general curiosity about the subject, although she was very skeptical about it in the beginning. Devika would also miss her pet dog a lot back in Pune and wanted to know if there was a way she could communicate with him. Sharing one of the many experiences that made her believe that intuitions could actually be correct, she says, “One day, I had these visions of my dog with an empty bowl which disturbed me a lot. We give him wet and dry food and I saw that his wet bowl was empty. I called my mother back home in Pune and asked her if he has not been eating properly. To my utter amazement, she told me that she had run out of his wet food

and has not been able to go out and buy it for a few days. I then told her to buy the food that day itself and sat back wondering how unbelievable the entire episode was. These things are quite hard to believe unless you actually experience them.”

It’s not just her pet that she has helped through her telepathic ability but Devika has also communicated with other animals on many occasions. She says that it actually helps healing many problems that the animals may be going through. “One of my friends had just adopted a dog named Ruby who used to be very scared around people. So much so that she would not eat and keep hiding elsewhere. When I connected with Ruby, she told me that she had been abandoned many times because of her physical appearance.

There was a huge personality disorder that she was facing and when my friends got her home, she was not able to confide in them.

She told me that she was so nervous that she jumped into the pool due to anxiety. A few days later, when I told my friend whatever I had seen in the vision, she told me that it was true that Ruby had fallen into the water.

Later, I communicated with Ruby and told her that she shouldn’t worry about her new owners and that they will always love her unconditionally and she would stay with them for good. Today, Ruby is a happy and very normal dog who loves to be around people,” shares Devika.

Shalaka always knew that she could communicate with animals wherever she went but attending Manjiri’s sessions helped her further. Sharing an anecdote from her experience, Shalaka says, “I used to feed this really old dog we called Ram about a yearand-a-half ago. Though I never spent more than five minutes with him, I always thought there was a connection between us. Then he fell very ill and everyone told me that he needed to be euthanised as his chances of recovering were very bleak. I didn’t listen to any of them and got him back home with me.

In a couple of days, he had started to recover, eat and walk normally, although he was weak because of his age. A few days later, he got knocked down by a vehicle on the road after which I had no option but to put him down.

I kept feeling guilty but when I reconnected with Ram a few months later, he told me that I had made the right decision. That he wanted me to put him down, as he was suffering and didn’t want to go ahead like that.” heena.grover@goldensparrow.com

TGS LIFE

THROW A POTLUCK PARTY

JANUARY 2, 2016 PUNE

By Heena Grover Menon @HeenaGM

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lanning a potluck party in the New Year, but can’t decide a theme? Take a cue from these talented homemakers as they share their traditional recipes. From mouth-watering delicacies such as Methi Malai Paneer, to the delectable Fish Curry from Goa, prepare a gourmet surprises for your loved ones.

TEJAS GAIKWAD

INDULGE

Celebrating their vibrant and diverse cultures, five homemakers hailing from different parts of the country dish out delicacies of their native land

PUNJAB

PALAK ANDE KA SAAG Ingredients 1 ½ cup Blanched spinach puree 2 Onions finely chopped 2 tsp Ginger-garlic paste 2-3 Tomatoes, finely chopped 4 Boiled eggs ½ tsp Garam masala powder ½ tsp Red chilli powder 1 tsp Coriander powder ½ tsp Turmeric powder 2 sticks Cinnamon 4-6 Cloves 1 Black Cardamom 1 Bay leaf 2 tbsp Ghee Salt to taste Chopped coriander leaves for garnish Method: Fry whole spices in ghee. Add chopped onions and when they turn light

Kiran and Nidhi are sister-in-laws and love cooking and playing host to friends and family every now and then

golden brown, add ginger-garlic paste. Cook it for a minute and then add tomatoes along with salt, turmeric, garam masala, red chilli and coriander. Cook it till the oil separates.

Then add spinach puree mix and cook for about 5-7 minutes. Add boiled eggs and garnish with coriander leaves.

Tip: For a quick recipe, you can skip whole spices and just use packed garam masala.

Although whole spices add an extra punch to the recipe METHI MALAI PANEER Ingredients 1 bunch Methi (fenugreek leaves) KARNATAKA PADDU Ingredients 2 cups Idli rice 1 cup Urad dal 1 Onion chopped 3-4 Green chillies chopped 1tsp Oil 1 medium piece Ginger chopped A handful of chopped coriander leaves For coconut chatni 1 Coconut, freshly grated 2-3 Green chillies 1 small piece Ginger 1 tsp Roasted Bengal gram A handful of chopped coriander leaves For tempering 1 tsp Oil 5-6 Curry leaves ½ tsp Mustard seeds

250 gm 2 2 tsp 2-3 2 sticks 4-6 1 1 2 tbsp ½ tsp ½ tsp 1 tsp ½ tsp 2 tbsp Salt to taste

Paneer Onions, finely chopped Ginger-garlic paste Tomatoes, finely chopped Cinnamon Cloves Bay leaf Black cardamom Fresh cream Garam masala powder Red chilli powder Coriander powder Turmeric powder Ghee

Salt to taste Method:Soak rice and urad dal overnight and grind into a paste with thickness similar to idli batter. Add all the above ingredients and make a fine mixture. Heat the Paddu tawa, add a little oil in each compartment and fill them to the rim. Cover and let them cook/fry till they turn golden brown.

Remove on a plate. Meanwhile, grind to make a fine paste of grated coconut, chillies, ginger and coriander, Bengal gram and salt. Now temper the chutney with oil, mustard seeds, curry leaves and salt. Serve Paddus on a banana leaf along with coconut chutney.

Tip: If you find preparing the batter too cumbersome, get readymade idli batter from the market. This dish is a great snack and can also be served with peanut powder chutney.

(Recipe by Savita Hosmath)

Method: Clean methi and remove the stems. In a wok, fry whole spices in ghee.

Add chopped onions and when they turn light golden brown add ginger-garlic paste.

Cook it for a minute then add methi along with salt, turmeric, garam masala, red chilli and coriander, and cook till the vegetable is done adding a little water. Now add fresh cream and cook for about two-three minutes.

Add paneer cubes and cook for another five minutes. Garnish with beaten fresh cream.

Tip: You can add some food colour to the fresh cream to give the dish a more professional texture.

(Recipes by Kiran Gour & Nidhi Gour)

MAHARASHTRA

Rupa and Madhuri are potluck party regulars and love exchanging recipes

ASSAM BHAPA MAACH PATURI Ingredients 10 pieces Rohu fish 2-3 pods Garlic 1 small piece Ginger 1 cup Yellow mustard seeds ½ cup Coriander leaves, chopped ½ cup Bathua leaves 4-5 Green chillies 1 whole Banana leaf for steaming 2 tsp Mustard oil Salt to taste Method: Clean fish and keep aside. Grind mustard seeds, half of coriander and bathua leaves, garlic, green chillies into a fine paste and apply onto the fish. Take a microwavable dish and spread a piece of banana leaf before placing the fish. Sprinkle the rest of the coriander and bathua leaves and cover properly with the rest of the banana leaf. Place the lid on top and cook for 10 minutes. Remove from the microwave and serve hot with steamed rice.

Tip: Just before serving the fish, drizzle some GOA DRY FISH KOSHIMBIR Ingredients 250 gm Dry prawns 1 Onion medium 1 Green chilli 1/2 cup Coriander leaves, chopped 1/2 cup Freshly grated coconut 1/2 tsp Amchur powder Salt to taste Method: Roast dry prawns on a tava till they turn crispy. Roasting can be done with or without oil. Mix finely chopped onions, chillies and amchur powder together. Add the roasted prawns to this mixture and add salt.

Add grated coconut while serving and garnish with coriander leaves. B This dish needs to be eaten fresh and cannot be kept for long as the prawns would not remain crisp.

GOAN FISH CURRY 1/2 kg Surmai 1 Onion large 1 cup Freshly grated coconut

mustard oil on top. This will give a pungent flavour to the dish.

KHAR Ingredients 1 medium-sized unripe papaya, halved vertically, sliced, seeds scooped, and cut into small, thin pieces 2 slit Green chillies ½ cup Moong dal 1 tsp Masoor dal 3/4 tsp Soda bicarbonate 1 small piece Ginger A pinch Fenugreek seeds 2 tbsp + 1 tbsp Mustard oil ½ tsp Sugar Salt to taste Method: In a pressure cooker, cook all the ingredients up to three-four whistles adding a little water. With a ladle, mix the cooked ingredients and then remove in a serving bowl. Serve hot with a few drizzles of mustard oil, sugar and slit green chillies.

Tip: A traditional Assamese meal always begins with a khar. This dish is believed to have health benefits as it cleanses the stomach.

(Recipes by Rupa Rajkhowa) 2 tsp Chilli powder 1 tsp Turmeric 6 Black pepper 1 inch Tamarind 2 tsp Coconut oil 1 tsp Rice flour 2 tsp Salt Marinade 2 tsp Chilli powder 2 tsp Salt Method: For marinating the fish, make a paste of chilli powder and salt with a little water and apply to the pieces. Leave aside for 15-20 minutes. Chop 3/4 onion finely and the remaining 1/4 to be grinded with coconut, turmeric, pepper and tamarind.

Ensure it turns into a fine paste. In a pan, take two teaspoon coconut oil and add the finely chopped onions. Once the onions turn pink, add marinated fish pieces. Add just enough water to soak the fish. Get this mixture to boil on slow flame. Upon boiling, add half of the ground paste. Add rice flour to the remaining paste and grind once more. Add this paste to the fish pot and boil for another two minutes.

PITLA AND BHAKRI For bhakri 2 cups Bajra/jowar flour 2 tbsp Yoghurt water, as required Salt to taste For pitla 1 cup Besan 1/4 tsp Turmeric powder 1 tsp Lemon juice 2-1/2 cups Buttermilk + water 1 tsp Ginger-garlic paste 2 Spring onions, finely chopped 4 Green chillies slit 3 tbsp Oil 1-1/2 tsp Mustard seeds 1-1/2 tsp Cumin seeds 1-1/2 tsp Hing 4 Curry leaves Salt to taste For chilli-garlic thecha 10 Green chillies 6 pods of Garlic 1 tsp Salt 1 tsp Ghee White butter Method: For chilli-garlic thecha, coarsely pound the ingredients together in a mortar.

For bhakri, season the flour with salt. Add yoghurt and water to the flour to make a soft dough. Take a small ball of dough, dust with flour and pat it on your palm to flatten it out.

Roll out to make round flat bread, as thick or thin as you desire. Place this carefully on a griddle, roast, flip and roast the other side.

Put on direct flame for a few seconds to make it crisp. For pitla, make a smooth paste of the besan, turmeric powder, lemon juice, salt and buttermilk. Add the ginger-garlic paste, spring onions and green chillies. Heat oil in a wide pan. Add mustard and cumin seeds and allow them to splutter. Add heeng and curry leaves and fry for two minutes. Now add the besan batter, stirring to prevent any lumps and bring to a boil. Add the seasoning and cook on low heat for five minutes. Serve hot with bhakri, chilli-garlic thecha and white butter.

Tip: This is one of the staple foods of Maharashtra which is extremely healthy. You can create your own versions of pitla by adding methi or green peas according to your taste.

BHOGICHI BHAJI Ingredients 3 Carrots, peeled and diced 2 big Potatoes, peeled and diced 3-4 Brinjals, diced

TGS LIFE JANUARY 2, 2016 PUNE

INDULGE

½ cup Fresh green peas 1-1 ½ tsp Green chilli paste 2 tsp Roasted groundnut powder 2 tsp Roasted sesame powder 1 tsp Lemon juice (optional) ½ tsp Cumin seeds ½ tsp Mustard seeds ¼ tsp Turmeric powder 2 tsp Oil A handful of chopped coriander leaves Salt to taste Method: Heat oil in a pan and add cumin seeds, mustard seeds and turmeric powder.

Let them splutter and then add the green chilli paste. Add the vegetables except brinjal and season with salt. Cook for a few minutes and then add the brinjal and again cook covered till the vegetable is soft. Add a little water, if required. Once the vegetables are done, add the sesame powder, groundnut powder and cook uncovered for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh coriander leaves and lemon juice.

Serve hot.

Tip: This dish is traditionally prepared to ring in the new year in Maharashtra during the harvest festival also called sankranti. You can add any vegetables of your choice to make the dish.

(Recipes by Madhuri Limaye Patwardhan)

This lovely granny-granddaughter duo, Nandini and Gia, love experimenting in the kicthen

No need to add salt since it has already been added to the marinade. Serve hot with steamed rice.

Tip: Fish cooks fast and is delicate, so sauté carefully.

(Recipes by Nandini Pinge)

TGS LIFE

JANUARY 2, 2016 PUNE

FEATURES

FACE OFF

By Romil Kothari @00romil

W

hat could possibly be common between a PhD student, a change manager, a game tester and an economic student?

Their love for Cosplay, or costume play, we find out. Dressing up as their favourite fictional characters at Comic Cons and other major festivals held across the country, they could not be more excited about the fest coming to Pune next year. A trend that was once

MYSTY CAT Garima Shrivastav Panchal is a pro when it comes to Cosplaying. After participating at nine Comic Cons and playing different characters in each, she has clearly mastered the art. “I played Elizabeth from the game Bioshock Infinite at my very first convention, the Hyderabad Comic Con held in 2013. Since then, I have played Amane-chan from Death Note, Blood Rayne, Judy Nails from Guitar Hero and Shao Jun from Assassins Creed Chronicles – China. It was difficult playing Blood Rayne, as I had to wear super skin-hugging clothes and perform stunts,” says Garima, who is a game tester for Ubisoft in Pune.

She gets her costumes stitched from a tailor and makes her own props. “It takes a lot of effort to build props that look as real as the character. Sometimes, I do seek professional help - GARIMA SHRIVASTAV PANCHAL, AKA MYSTY CAT but I style my own wigs,” she states. Garima doesn’t consider acting as her best talent, but tries to improvise after every Cosplay session.

“To me, Cosplay is about celebrating the fictional world and its characters that are the source of entertainment and learning.”

SHIROMANCER Prateek Chakraborty, aka Shiromancer, attended the Cool Japan Festival in 2012 and was captivated by Cosplay. His first Cosplay was Hijikata Toshiro from the anime Gintama, which was a skit with 13 different characters.

“My favourite Cosplay, so far, has been Artorias the Abysswalker from the game Dark Souls.

This was a full suit of armour made from foam, which I created in a month. The character was intimidating and I had to carry around a huge sword but I had fun scaring visitors,” says Prateek, a PhD student. He is an armor build Cosplay specialist, and he usually wears a costume that does not feature a mask.

“I have to breathe through a black cloth pulled over my face. It’s also difficult moving around covered in an armour from head to toe,” he says.

Even though participating in a Cosplay event disrupts his regular life, it is Prateek’s passion for those characters that still drives him. Making the costume and prop is tough, he agrees. “I have neglected everyday life to rush through huge Cosplays. There have been times when I have gotten horribly sick at a convention because I had skipped regular meals and sleep for almost a month. The material hunt for costumes, managing expenses, travelling to Mumbai for materials is what gets to you. But it’s all worth it,” he smiles.

Prateek plans on Cosplaying the Rathalos Armour set from Monster Hunter when he has

good amount of time and a decent budget. It may be difficult juggling between Cosplays, work and studies but he plans on Cosplaying till he can spare the time. “When I was playing Artorias, a lot of people assumed that I was an exhibit or an installation, so it was fun making sudden movements and startling people while they were posing for pictures,” he chuckles. The little moments of happiness keep him going.

They might not imitate all the way but they get Cosplay enthusiasts pur and show off their skills

not much recognised in In picked up among the you inspired by the West.

While the craze s Japanese festivals, Comic responsible for getting culture into limelight.

One of her best stints as a Cosplayer was when she played the horror movie character Chucky. “With Chucky, it was challenging to play the opposite gender but scaring everyone around was a piece of cake for me,” she says.

She has a long list of favourite fictional characters that she wishes to play in the future. The list includes Lori from King of Fighters, Amaterasu from Okami, Jade from Beyond Good and Evil, Furiosa from MadMax Fury Road and the list goes on. “To me, Cosplay is about celebrating the fictional world and its characters that are the source of entertainment and learning. I find it funny that people click pictures with us and leave without even learning the name of the character we are playing.”

“Nobody expects an Indian to crossdress, which is why I got mixed reactions from the crowd. I had a pokeball in one hand and a Togepi Doll in another.”

e John Travolta and Nicholas Cage t pretty close. Despite hectic schedules, rsue their hobby to become someone else s to the world

ndia has now uth, who are

started with c Cons were the Cosplay . Becoming

someone else for a few hours is a hobby that includes everything from stitching their own clothes to creating the props that make the character. TGS talks to four Cosplayers who are pursuing their passion with all their heart.

arted in 1970 as a Comic Con was st San Diego. The three-day event in tracted 300 fans. first-ever event at ached Delhi in The convention re tions organised 2011. Other conven , dian Gaming Expo in India include In ngalore and Cool Japan Hubba in Ba Mumbai.

Japan Festival in

Cosplay is for everyone and your appearance, race, religion, skin colour should not matter,” says the 27-year-old change manager at Tech Mahindra.

He won a trip to Australia Comic Con for portraying the character Groot from the movie, Guardians of the Galaxy at the Mumbai Film and Comic Convention. “It took me almost three months to make the costume from scratch. It was difficult to find the materials so I picked some from Mumbai and ordered the rest online. Another challenge

GAURILLA Gauri Karnik, aka Gaurilla, started Cosplaying after attending the Cool Japan Festival in 2012. She chose to play Maka Albarn from the anime Soul Eater as her first act. “It was easy to play Maka at first but I started playing more challenging characters later. After my first stint at the Japan fest, I have done more than 25 Cosplays in several conventions,” says Gauri, a third year BSc student.

Gauri stitches her own costumes as well us fashions costumes for others on commission basis. She is also proficient in making her own props and wigs.

“Cosplay is my creative release. After a hard day, I look forward to getting back home and working on my Cosplays. It is very relaxing,” she points out. Her most favourite experiences include playing Frieza from Dragon Ball Z and Red from the game Transistor. “Freiza was definitely the most difficult character that I have Cosplayed.

Everything I wore was bulky and unwieldy. I had to even body paint but I would never do it again,” she adds.Her best experience till date has been playing Red from the game Transistor. “Red doesn’t talk at all in the game and when I didn’t speak to anyone, people around were really concerned,” she smiles. romil.kothari@goldensparrow.com

while playing Groot was managing the mask,” he says. Rohan makes sure to choose characters that he knows about in-depth to maintain authenticity.

He has also played Misty, a female character from the popular Pokemon series, for the Delhi Comic Con held last year. “Nobody expects an Indian to cross-dress, which is why I got mixed reactions from the crowd. I had a pokeball in one hand and a Togepi Doll in another. It was different playing Misty and I will always remember the experience,” he adds.

PIC BY PRADY DAS

COSPLAYER RJ After returning from Delhi Comic Con held two years ago, Rohan Jain got hooked to the trend instantly. He was intrigued by the newfound world and after that there was no looking back. He chose to play ‘Tobi’ his favourite character from the anime series ‘Naruto’ and has been a part of 14 other Cosplays since. His passion has acquainted him with more than 200 people from across the country. “I hate it when people say that you should not Cosplay this character because you are fat or thin.

- ROHAN JAIN, AKA COSPLAYER RJ

“Cosplay is my creative release. After a hard day, I look forward to getting back home and working on my Cosplays. It is very relaxing” - GAURI KARNIK, AKA GAURILLA

TGS LIFE

JANUARY 2, 2016 PUNE

FEATURES

TGS LIFE JANUARY 2, 2016

NEW BEETLE LAUNCHED FOR RS 28.73 LAC

PUNE

THRILL OF DRIVING

MAHINDRA PREVIEWS THE NEW KUV100 SUV M

ahindra’s new project, until now codenamed ‘S101, has been revealed as it’s newest SUV, the ‘KUV100 (pronounced as KUV ‘1 double Oh’, as is the company’s unusual norm). The KUV100, as the numerical tag suggests, slots below the recently-launched TUV300. Mahindra also revealed their new petrol engine, branded ‘mFalcon’. The KUV100 looks tough and aggressive and Mahindra pitches the ‘K’ from KUV100 to for ‘kool’ and ‘trendy’. We took a moment here, you can too.

The KUV100 will run the mFalcon, G80 motor which is a 1.2L, 82 HP, dual VVT petrol engine while the diesel

variant will run the mFalcon, D75 which is a 1.2L, 77 HP, turbo-charged diesel engine.

While the TUV takes its squared-off cues from Mahindras of old, the KUV seems to prefer the curves, creases and slashes of later models such as the XUV. We’re intrigued and curious to see how this design language translates onto such a small vehicle. The KUV100 will be available in 7 colors: Fiery Orange, Flamboyant Red, Dazzling Silver, Aquamarine, Pearl White, Designer Grey and Midnight Black.

V

olkswagen’s iconic, now luxury hatchback, the Beetle, gets a refresh.

The 21st century Beetle retain its curves, although it looks bigger and bulkier than the previous models. The sole model we get in India runs a turbocharged 1.4L TSI petrol engine generating 148 hp and 250 Nm of torque. The new Beetle also makes the shift to a 7-speed DSG gearbox and has more ground clearance – 136mm, which should be welcome in our conditions.

The new Beetle retains its iconic bugeyed headlights, but gets DRL LED headlamps and front fog lamps with a static cornering function. Its also gets a sliding sunroof which was not present in earlier models and green heat-insulating glass for side and rear windows.

The new Beetle comes with airbags for the driver and front passenger along

with side airbags. A full complement of electronics is present with ESC, ABS, ASR, EDL and EDTC. The new Beetle also includes front and rear park distance control, with an acoustic warning and graphical display.

The 21st century Beetle gets proper updates like climatronic dual-zone auto air-conditioning, a multi-functional display which has radio, navigation, phone as well as customised lighting and security settings, an 8-speakers sound system, rain sensors, cruise control and so on. A far cry from the bland, parts-bin mish-mash of the previous interior.

The 21st century Beetle claims a mileage of 17.68 Kmpl and is priced at Rs 28.73 lac ex-showroom Mumbai. Four colours are availale: Habanero Orange, Oryx White, Tornado Red, Blue Silk.

KAWASAKI LAUNCHES VERSYS 650 FOR RS 6.60 LAC K

awasaki India is once again being the first mover with the launch of the Versys 650, almost a year after the launch of the Versys 1000. Based on their purpose-built flexible platform shared with the Ninja 650 and ER-6n, the Versys 650 is lighter and shorter than it’s big adventure tourer brother.

The Versys 650 is Kawasaki’s first CKD bike with ABS. Unfortunately, an updated Ninja with similar safety features is not expected soon. As usual, parts are imported from Thailand and assembled by India Kawasaki Motors. Like the Versys 1000, the Versys 650 also comes with a long travel suspension and 17 wheels. The Versys 650 carries the venerable 649cc, 4-stroke para l lel-t w in engine which delivering 68.3hp and 64 Nm, a shade less power than the Ninja.

It has a 6-speed transmission like the Versys 1000 and a ground clearance of 170mm.

More

impressive is the adjustable Showa separate function fork, which has preload adjustability on the left leg and rebound damping on the right. This alone justifies much of the premium you’d pay over its Ninja brethren.

The Versys 650 comes only in black and is priced at Rs 6.60 lac ex showroom, Pune and will be available at KTM-Kawasaki showrooms. Our dealer sources are quoting somewhere between Rs 7.3 and 7.5 lac on-road, Mumbai, which is extremely competitive.

You could have the Ducati Scrambler for a little more money, but that’d buy you the cachet but not the capability.

Kawasaki also launched the KLX110, a mini dirt bike targeted at ent hu sia st ic kids. Shine to Nishikawa, DMD of India Kawasaki

Motors, believes that this is an ideal way to get the kids of their customers into motorcycling, while previously they’d just be on the sidelines while their parents had the twowheeled fun. Commendable foresight, we say.

The KLX110 comes with a 4-stroke engine with a 4-speed transmission with a centrifugal clutch and long travel suspension. Power output is 7.2hp and max torque is 8.0Nm. The KLX110 comes in lime green and is priced at 2.65 lac ex-showroom, Pune and will be sold by India Kawasaki Motors(IKM). Of course, it is not street-legal.

TEJAS GAIKWAD

Family of fitness freaks

Five Delhiites, now settled in Pune, have made it their life’s mission to stay fit and lead better lives. Meet the Yadav siblings, who might just inspire you to put on your running shoes

TGS LIFE JANUARY 2, 2016 PUNE

FEATURES their protein needs are fulfilled by tofu, paneer and lentils. They avoid deep fired and junk food.

Every now and then they also try sugar-free challenges. In addition, they do a nine day fast just like in Navratri, twice a year, which helps in detoxification.

By Salonee Mistry @SaloneeMistry

T

hey inspire each other to stay strong on their fitness journey. Living in Pune and being busy with their own schedules, might not give the four brothers and their sister enough time to bond but their morning routine of a run and a session of exercise together makes up for it.

THEIR STORY BEGINS 33-year-old Ram, the eldest of the siblings is a Technical Architect with a start up. A geek and technology freak, fitness became a part of his life after he went through a personal crisis a few years ago. Vijay Laxmi, 25, works in the web development department at Affinity Express Organisation, Pune, and has taken running seriously in the last two years. She has, however, always been interested in running since school and is glad that he has finally taken it up seriously. “I started running because I wanted to see how people ran for hours when I could barely manage a few minutes on the treadmill. When I decided to do my first half marathon in 2011, I followed a few plans I found on the Internet and somehow managed to finish the race,” he says.

His first race was an exhilarating experience for him he decided to enrol for a full marathon the following year. This is when he met a running group and began training regularly. Just last year, in September, he also started a running group called Dhakkan Athletes.

Ram Sahai, 23, and Dharmendra, also 23, both started off by volunteering as water supports for the long runs that their elder brother was involved in. From the experiences of their elder brother and many others who ran long distances, they found that they can also finish marathons only if they try. Just like them, the youngest of them all, Kailash found inspiration

in his elder brother. “One day, Ram asked me to come to the race course with him where he does his training runs. I willingly agreed and was surprised to see many runners early in the morning. They all ran so effortlessly that I instantly wished to run like them. That is how my running journey started,” says the 20-yearold. All five of them run together every morning and do yoga, go swimming and cycling.

THEIR FITNESS ROUTINE All five siblings believe that all the running that they do is possible only if they are physically fit. Weakness is a big hindrance to their goal of running and winning full marathons. Ram assures us that they all religiously follow a training schedule. Monday is their rest day, Tuesday is an easy run followed by swimming, Wednesday is strength training or swimming, Thursday is speed workout, which generally

RUNNING RACES All five of them from time to time have taken part in marathons, half and full as well as triathlons. Till date, Ram has run seven full marathons out of which three were Standard Chartered Mumbai Marathons (SCMM) and Airtel Hyderabad Marathons (AHM) each and the Ladakh Marathon. He has also run 25 half marathons including The Golden Gate Half Marathon held in San Francisco, California, last year. After starting to swim two years ago he also participated in three Olympic distances and one Half Ironman distance triathlon. “I have not won any marathon, and I might not win any in future but, for me, finishing it is equivalent to winning. Getting better is my only goal,” he says. He has signed up for the Run the Rann to be held in February this year and is also planning on doing a Full IronMan Triathlon soon.

Vijay Laxmi has participated in the Shivaji Half Marathon which was her first running event, 21-kilometre Pune Running Beyond My Self, Happy Heart Marathon where she won involves sprints, Friday is recovery run followed the won the third prize and the 43-kilometre by swimming, Saturday is yoga followed by Mumbai Marathon. Each marathon and competition has given swimming and Sunday her a different experience is reserved for long runs. and the learning process Kailash does not necessary will probably never end. follow a diet but does planks, Ram Sahai, has done two yoga, running and swimming SCMM, two AHM and one on alternate days. “Fitness is Bengaluru Marathon. He has very essential for any game. also run 11 half marathons.

When you are running, an He recently ran his first increase in your weight can ultra marathon in Pune. create problems. So practice “Initially, these races seemed is the only key to building like something we had to do your stamina, keeping the because our elder brother extra weight off and gain had asked us to. So we hardly enough confidence to believe - KAILASH YADAV practiced before races but that you can finish the race we managed to finish them. however long it is,” says Vijay Later, I realised that if I Laxmi.

The Yadavs are pure vegetarians so most of can finish it then why not aim higher and get better timing. So, although I have not been a podium finisher till date, I am aiming for it and hopefully I should achieve it soon,” he tells us.

Dharmendra has run two SCMM, one AHM and eight half marathons. Kailash has run two full marathons and seven half marathons. He has also completed three triathlons.

“Running races together is a great bonding exercise. It’s the best time we spend together”

Siblings Ram Shankar, Ram Sahai, Kailash, Dharmendra and Vijay Laxmi stretching after a long morning run

BUILDING BONDS WITH EVERY RUN Be it the practice runs that the Yadavs do together or the races that they take part in, they could not be more thankful of each other’s support. “Training and running races together is a great bonding exercise for me and my siblings. They help me and correct me and it’s some of the best time we spend together,” says Kailash. This has not only helped them be there for each other in tough times but the competition too is healthy. They have a lot of common topics to talk about and the motivation levels remain high. salonee.mistry@goldensparrow.com

TGS LIFE

FEATURES

By Heena Grover Menon @HeenaGM

C

ity-based interior designers, Priya Gaekwar and Snigdha Jayesh Bhatia, claim you don’t need to burn a hole in your pocket to revamp your home. Instead, they share tips to help you change the way your house looks. Rearrange your furniture or décor pieces, add or take away colour, declutter, ramp up your lighting or bring in the greens. There are plenty of things you can do to pretty up your den.

Give your home a brand new look Check out clever, budget-conscious ideas to reinvent your space this New Year

PICS BY NEELU SINGH

JANUARY 2, 2016 PUNE

THE WALL ART If you don’t have any art on your walls, get some, suggests Priya. When choosing art for your walls, pick what appeals to your sense of aesthetics. “Buying art doesn’t need to be an expensive proposition. You can pick poster reproductions of famous pieces you love and frame them beautifully. You can buy works by art students or simply scour galleries till you find what you’re looking for. You can also frame your favorite family photos. There is always something to fit every style and every newspapers to make interesting coasters or trays. Old tyres or barrels could be converted into quirky, yet comfortable, stools. Use old and unused sarees or dupattas to make cushion covers or curtains. Old glass bottles can be painted and made into pretty little hanging lamps,” says Snigdha. Similarly, mirrors don’t cost much and add instant glamour to any living area. They magnify the amount of light in a room and can also make a small space look larger. “If you have an old antique mirror that’s rusting in the store room, give it a fresh coat of polish or paint and mount on a wall that you feel needs some drama.

Choose a frame for your mirror to set the style for your room. From art deco, Venetian to baroque and art noveau, your choices are endless. You can find contemporary versions online or scour antique stores for a more retro look,” adds Priya.

budget. “Nothing beats the blues and wins admiration than creating something of your own. So, take out those paint cans and let your creativity cover dull walls. If your children love to play with colours, it’s even better. Add fun colours and create your own patterns,” adds Snigdha. There are a few rules to follow when hanging art on your walls. Sometimes a space can look imbalanced if you have a large sofa with a tiny painting hanging above it or vice versa.

RECYCLE AND REUSE Every time you stack up old unused articles to give away, think again. “You can use old

SPLASH OF COLOURS If you have way too many colour schemes in your house, you might want to look at starting this New Year with a clean palette, says Priya. Go back to basics by painting over some of your walls and bringing them back to a neutral shade – whites and beiges are best. On the other hand, if you are nervous about adding colour to your spaces and have only ever lived with a neutral palette, begin by creating an inspiration board. “To be on a safer side, always use light or pastel hues for small spaces to make it appear airy and spacious and add a dash of colour in the form of upholstery or artefacts,” says Snigdha.

Add colours in the form of vases, cushions covers, throw pillows, floor rugs, eventually moving to larger surface areas like upholstery and window treatments.

LIGHT EFFECT A combination of ceiling and table lights is the key for any room. This gives you options for different moods. There are also various qualities of light through different types of

shades and fixtures these can change the brightness and the colour of light that fills your spaces.

tranquility when you come back home after a hard day. “Pick a few items that tie your likings together and layer different objects such as stacks of books, a clock, a tray, bowls and candles. Your base should be the biggest surface such as coffee table books or a tray.

Add a sense of height with a tall object, a potted orchid, a lamp, a sculpture or a vase of flowers work well. Arrange coffee table books and accessories that you have collected over the years with a beautiful vase and fresh flowers. Cozy up a corner of your bedroom with a floor rug, an armchair, a painting above the chair and side table with a lamp to create a comfortable reading corner,” suggests Priya.

VIGNETTES AND CORNERS A vignette is a small space that shows your personal narrative and gives a little glimpse into your personality. Create a space in your bedroom that’s just for you. Artfully arrange vases, books, scented candles and artefacts that you love. It’s essential to have that one little corner that evokes a sense of peace and

GO GREEN For an instant makeover, add plants into your space. Plants and flowers bring a fresh breath of air while creating good vibrations. Metal buckets, if neatly placed in a metal or wood grid can make for quick and easy instant herb garden. heena.grover@goldensparrow.com

Hop

TGS LIFE JANUARY 2, 2016 PUNE

on board

FEATURES RAHUL RAUT

The city’s fully functional skate park at Sahakar Nagar seems to be a well-kept secret. Here’s your chance to get to know the few who have discovered the space and make good use of it

Navin Devnani Shubham Surana

By Salonee Mistry @SaloneeMistry

N

avin Devnani is only 22 years old but he wants to change the face of action sports in India. Working in the direction, Navin has joined a venture, Active8, that has a similar vision apart from being an active skateboarder himself. For two years now, Shubham Surana, 15, and Kartik Pravin Jain, 16, have been skateboarding almost every waking minute of their lives.

Inspired by them, Harshdeep Pawar, 21, too has begun to love skateboarding and ensures that he spends at least three days a week on the skateboard. Committing to a sport that is not so well known and does not have a proper trainer either, these young boys have proved what one can do if your heart is set on it.

Earlier this year, Pune saw its first community skating park. These boys, however, have been hooked on to the sport way before and now there’s no stopping them.

While the numbers have increased in the past year or so, the members have just gone up only slightly whereas the sport deserves so much more, the boys believe. TGS met with the four talented skateboarders and watched their faces brighten up as they skated at the ring in Shahkar Nagar. They spoke about their inspiration to take on the sport, the challenges they face and what they love about it the most.

Kartik Jain

INSPIRING ONE ANOTHER Shubham and Kartik were among the first few to start skateboarding in the city. Their inspiration lies in shows like Zeke and Luther, which is about two American teenage boys who hope to become professional skaters and Kick Buttowski, which is about a guy who is working towards being the biggest daredevil. The way the characters did the stunts fascinated the boys and urged them to try and achieve that kind of skill themselves. Harshdeep, on the other hand, was inspired by Shubham and Kartik.

Navin too has been inspiration by others who used to skateboard in his college. “Our biggest inspiration is each other. When one is down, the other is always there to give that extra push and encouragement so you don’t give up. We are a small community as it is,” says Shubham, who is currently in his first year studying Commerce at Sardar Dastur Hormazdiar Junior College, Camp. Kartik is in his second year and is studying Science at Samubai Mulchand Choksey High School and Junior College, Camp.

As a result of their dedication and passion, both boys have became a source of inspiration for so many others. Always interested in the sport Harshdeep, who was initially a roller skater, loved the freestyle nature of skateboarding and could not stop himself from buying a skateboard. His

parents too have been extremely supportive.

He is currently in his second year and is pursuing a Bachelor in Commerce from Savitribai Phule Pune University. Navin too had always been interested in the sport. He always saw videos online but it was not until he saw someone skateboard in front of his eyes, did he think it to be doable. “I honestly believe that it takes time for a lot of people to enter into a sport like this because of the way it looks. We have only seen videos of people from the other countries or cartoons doing skateboarding and until you actually see someone you know or relate to it, it doesn’t click,” he confesses. Navin has recently graduated from MAEER’s MIT Institute of Design, at Loni Kalbor, and is working at Active8 sports.

CHALLENGES ARE A MATTER OF PERCEPTION A conversation with the skateboarders revealed what the basic challenges were and how there were simple solutions. It also showed the kind of perseverance and dedication that the boys exemplified, as they overcome all the challenges every single day and continue to follow their dreams. Selftaught because of the absence of a coach in the city, all of them have relied on online tutorials and their observational skills.

“There are so many tutorials that experts upload on the internet and this is our learning tool. Then, whoever learns the trick first, teaches it to the others. It’s all a matter of trial and error,” says Kartik. Agreeing with him, Harshdeep also pointed out the absence of a proper facility. Although there is a skating park in the city, it is not welldesigned and can be used by only those who know skateboarding well. It is definitely not for beginners, the boys say. “Since the park is not suitable for beginners, it is very difficult to boost their confidence when on the board.

Once they fall, it instils fear in their mind and many of them give up almost instantly,” he adds. While these are the problems that the boy’s face their parents are most concerned about injuries. Fractures, sprains,

ligament tears are part of every skateboarder’s story.

LOVING EVERY SECOND WHILE ON THE BOARD The fact that all four of them love a different aspect of the sport proves how much there is to it. Navin loves the fact that no matter how much he learns there is always something different and more complex. The level of difficulty too never lowers and there’s always room for a higher and more complex flip or turn. Learning how to fall and not being scared of it is also something that he believes the game has taught him, in the one year that he has been involved with it. Shubham is captivated by the fact that he is able to do something that not many people can do. This is something that keeps him going no matter what. He is his happiest when he is cruising down the street on his board.

Harshdeep enjoys the satisfaction he feels after trying a stunt repeatedly and finally getting it right. He believes that he has a long way to go and wants to promote the sport for life. For Kartik, on the other hand, the board

Harshdeep Pawar

is pretty much his lifeline. “The skateboard is my mode of transport. When my mother wants me to go get something from a shop, which is down the street, the wheels allow me to get over my laziness and get the work done. I use it as frequently as possible, no matter what errand it is,” he tells us.

Skateboarding is usually classified into street and park skating. Street skateboarder’s use any given surface to skate. They are generally seen cruising down lanes, ledges, open grounds and stairs on their boards. Harshdeep, Shubham and Kartik are street Skateboarders. Navin, on the other hand, prefers skating in the park. All of them hope to make a career in the sport, be it training others or promoting it. They want to most definitely get more people on board and spread the happiness that skateboarding has brought them. salonee.mistry@goldensparrow.com

SP

TGS LIFE JANUARY 2, 2016 PUNE

All things fashionable White and golden gown

This showstopper super glam full length white gown with sequence work can be worn at cocktails or reception parties.

Keep the accessories minimal and pair it with a pair of high heel golden pumps and look like a diva.

Price: Rs 5,000 Where: Forever Love, North Main Road

Jute strap sandals

14

TEJAS GAIKWAD

SHOPPING

Looking for the latest trend in fashion? Head to Koregaon Park this weekend and stop by at these little fashion boutiques which have the most trendy clothes, shoes and accessories

Printed Satin skirt & Peach crop top

Make a style statement by pairing this printed satin maxi skirt with the peach crop top. Accessorise the look with These pocket-friendly sandals multi-coloured danglings and nude shade are stylish and extremely pumps. comfy to walk around in.

Price: Skirt-Rs 2,300; Top- Rs 1,100 Wear them with denims and Where: Very Me, Lane 6 kurta for a cool casual look.

Price: Rs 150 Where: Back Lane

Cowgirl leather skirt Planning a cowboy-cowgirl theme party? Here’s your pick for the evening. Pair this sassy black leather skirt with a white broad collar shirt and long boots for a perfect look.

Price: Rs 1,150 Where: Diva, Lane 6

Bling sweater

Rock the nippy evening parties by teaming this dainty golden bling sweater. Wear it over a pair of black denims or pencil skirt along with golden ballerina shoes to complete the look.

Price: Rs 1,100 Where: Forever Love, North Main Road

Suede dress

This short and dainty suede dress will doll you up for any day-time outings or evenings this season.

Pair it with skin colour or black stockings and high heel pumps in nude shade to complete the look.

Price: Rs 1,850 Where: Very Me, North Main Road

Golden strap sandals

These pretty sandals can be worn with casuals, skirts, dresses and ethnic wear for an evening stroll with your girl gang.

Price: Rs 150 Where: Lane 1

Pearl bracelet

Pair this pretty silver and pearl hand accessory with saris or ethnic dresses for a classy, understated look Price: Rs 5,000 Where: Very Me, Lane 6

Uncut stonestudded ring Temple earrings

These pure silver temple earrings with red beads will glam up your look a thousand times. Pair up with an ethnic multi-coloured anarkali dress or a vibrant sari and make the women envy.

Price: Rs 6,500 Where: Blue Fire, North Main Road

This gorgeous bespoke cocktail ring is a one-piece wonder to accessorise your attire. Pair it with a black dress or in fact dress in any colour and you are sure to stand out in the crowd.

Price: Rs 3,500 Where: Blue Fire, North Main Road

— Compiled by Heena Grover Menon

‘Exercise shouldn’t be a punishment’

By Heena Grover Menon @HeenaGM

H

MORNING I am an early riser and I am annoyingly proud about that. I like waking up before the chaos kicks in, it brings me mental peace. I have also realised that I am super productive between 6 am and 10 am. I wake up at 5.30 am every day and start my morning with a cup of strong coffee after which I drink around 4-5 litres of water before noon. I drink a total of around 6 litres of water every day. I head out to the gym by 6 am, and do a full body workout three times a week for around two hours. On days that I don’t hit the gym, I run around 6-7 km in the evening. When I have absolutely no time to spare for a hardcore workout, I opt for highintensity interval training (HIIT) home workouts. These are seven to eleven minute exercises that have you sweating by the end of two sets.

I have breakfast by 9 am, which consists of muesli, eggs, bread and a glass of milk.

JANUARY 2, 2016 PUNE

FEATURES

A writer and social media strategist by day and a food and fitness blogger by night, Protima Tiwari shares her mantra to staying active 24x7 RAHUL RAUT

ailing from an army background, Protima has travelled and lived across the country but calls Pune her hometown. An MBA with a specialisation in marketing, she realised early on that she wasn’t cut out for a nine-to-five job. So, to make things a little more chaotic and exciting, she decided to become a writer. “While this meant that I could be my own boss and choose my routine, it had me clocking in 16-18 hours of work on some days.

It is challenging to make time for myself but I have realised the importance of fitness over the last couple of years and you would not find me giving up on a workout session because of work,” she quips.

TGS LIFE

PROTIMA TIWARI Age: 26 Weight: 49 kg Height: 5’ 3”

EXPERT SPEAK Atul Kurpe, Director, Focus Five Fitness Club

7.30pm. Dinner consists of a nonvegetarian preparation along with two chapattis. Dessert is either ice cream or chocolate. I have a sweet tooth! I sleep by 11 pm On days that I have a food review, I end up having maybe 2000 calories in one meal. I end up burning quite a lot of it because of the workouts, plus I am a very active

person in general. I climb stairs, I walk down to meetings that are in the neighbourhood, two kilometres isn’t that big a deal! I don’t believe in cheat meals, so you’ll see me eating junk too. I wouldn’t say I have been blessed with great metabolism. I have worked hard to make it that way. There is only one answer I have for those who ask me how I can be

NOON I keep eating throughout the day. A couple of hours after breakfast I eat a fruit salad or some nuts or sip on a massive glass of fresh fruit juice or plain curd. Due to this, lunch is usually a light affair – two chapattis with vegetable or a sandwich.

EVENING I eat a small snack around 6 pm and if I’m at home an early dinner by

a food blogger and eat so much yet stay fit — I do so by being active.

HER MANTRA I work out to stay fit not to be slim.

I’d rather be toned and muscular than be weak and thin. I believe exercise shouldn’t be a punishment.

Exercise because you enjoy it not because you have to. The minute you accept this, you will realise what a fun thing it is to see sweat dripping from your face and a hint of a shapely muscle while you lift weights. The happiness with which you can get into a dress without having to look at yourself in the mirror is addictive and you want to stay in that state.

It’s not easy, it takes a month to form a routine, but once you’re in the zone being fit becomes a part of your lifestyle. Once you have seen yourself fit, there’s no other way you can imagine yourself to be.

Though you seem to lead a healthy lifestyle, there are some suggestions which may come handy. You must have a small meal before starting your workout.

Divide that six litres of water during the day proportionately.

Add protein and micro nutrients after every workout. Add small food stuff in between dinner and next day’s breakfast, before going to bed.Think seriously about those hectic hours when you work for 17-18 hours a day. Our body needs seven-eight hours of sound sleep. Though you digest junk food without putting on your weight, it is not advisable to have it because of it’s ingredients which badly affect the vital organs.

Expert rating: 7/10

And that’s the beauty of it. Eat well, sleep well, and stay active. Don’t compromise on your health and don’t let work take the best of you. heena.grover@goldensparrow.com

Bring on the winter blush Winter dressing is all about cosy clothes and funky accessories. Fashion blogger and stylist Aleena Macker tell you how layering up an outfit can be so much fun this season • The first thing that comes to my mind when talking of winter fashion is a scarf.

Woolen scarves, infinity scarves and even printed scarves do the trick STYLE with keeping the neck warm as GURU well as adding that winter touch to an outfit.

• The other thing that I just can’t wait to pull out of my winter closet are my boots.

Knee length or calf length or even ankle length - pull out all of them. On slightly

warmer days ankle boots would be the ideal option.

• A material that can literally only be out to its best use is leather. Whether a pant, jacket, gloves or even a pair of boots, leather is just the right material to keep you warm and also survives well in the winters.

• Winters are all about keeping the extremities especially warm. Hats, beanies and even woollen caps keep the head from catching the chill. And of course, add a very stylish touch.

Make sure to opt for dark-hued colours and stay away from the straw kind of hats.

• If you plan to go glam, then nothing spells it better than Faux Fur in the winters. Faux

Fur jackets look absolutely regal and definitely look glamorous too.

• Wear dark hued colours or even pastel shades in lipsticks like shades of burgundy, wine, oxblood and marsala.

• Another fabric to look out for during the winters is knit. If soft woollen kind of feel is your thing then you will love knit. Knit tops and sweaters are an absolute must-have during winters.

• The one trend that has really caught up in specific this season is capes! Woollen capes, ponchos and even long waistcoats are a must have this season.

(As told to Heena Grover Menon)