Exotica may 2016

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NOWthat my second term as Member of Parliament

in the Rajya Sabha has come to an end, it is

time to focus on some meaningful writing,

which I have not been able to pursue for some time. As I have never quite

fancied myself as a fiction writer, unlike some of my close friends from

college — Amitav Ghosh being foremost among them — my genre will be

confined to non-fiction works such as biographies, an autobiography,

travelogue, Hindi film music and so on.

Shortly, Exotica readers will be offered a two-part travelogue,

chronicling my car journey across the bulk of India: Delhi to

Kochi via Kolkata and return from Kochi via Mumbai and

Rajasthan. This approximately 10,000 km journey was

undertaken between February and April this year, with a

three-week break to attend the first part of the Budget Session

in Delhi.

This journey completed my circumambulation of the

Motherland; it was a journey of faith to pay tribute to Bharat

Mata in her totality. Over the years, I have driven across snows

in Ladakh, jungles in UP, steep hills in Sikkim, deserts in parts

of Rajasthan and of course the vast Indo-Gangetic Plains from

Wagah to Kolkata. Predictably, my one indulgence in life is a

sturdy but comfortable SUV — I used to drive a Maruti Gypsy for many

years followed by a Hyundai Terracan for over a decade and now I cruise

in a Land Rover Discovery 4. Although you rarely need to employ the four

wheel gear unless stuck in slush, the fact that you are driving a powerful

vehicle gives you a sense of security.

Covering India’s massive coastline along the Bay of Bengal and

the Arabian Sea has been a long cherished ambition, which I was

determined to undertake this time. Despite having traversed so many

kilometres within the country, I feel I ain’t seen nothin’ yet! Well, at least

I have now completed driving across Atal Bihari Vajpayee’s dream project,

the Golden Quadrilateral connecting the four metros in the four corners

of the country.

But his other ambitious plan, the East-West, North-South Highway

chain remains to be done. Arguably, most of these two roads are still under

construction but I hope to travel across them in the foreseeable future, as

soon as they are in jeepable condition.

Although talk of constructing the Trans-Asian Highway from

Singapore to Istanbul has gained ground recently, I don’t foresee my being

able to see it materialise in my lifetime. Similarly, the fabled Stilwell Road

built by the British during WW II from erstwhile NEFA (now Arunachal

Pradesh) to Kunming in Yunnan, China may not become travel worthy

before another 20 years or so.

But I still entertain the dream of driving across the interiors of this

vast country while my reflexes permit. I have driven in Europe and the US

too, but there is nothing as thrilling as driving in India. The sight and

sounds are incredible and Indian roads are to be relished for their sheer

unpredictability. So, I don’t intend to lift my leg off the accelerator for as

many more years as I can.

[CHANDAN MITRA]

Editor-in-Chief

Editor-in-Chief

CHANDAN MITRA

EDITORIAL BOARD

Vice-Chairman &

Joint Managing Director

Amit Goel

Group President

Aparna Sengupta 09958000128

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EDITORIAL

Editor-in-Charge Rinku Ghosh

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Feature Writers Priyanka Joshi

& Devi Singh

Chief Designer

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Syed Nawab Raza

Staff Photographer Pankaj Kumar

SALES & MARKETING

General Manager

Kumar Gurudutta Jha

Deputy General Manager

Ravi Khatri

Manager Bharat Singh Sajwan,

Prabhakar Pathak

GOVERNMENT & PSU

General Manager Tapan Ghosh

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Media Coordinator

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MUMBAI OFFICE

General Manager

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Suzanna Roy 09830197332

General Manager (Circulation)

Rajeev Gautam

Printed and published by

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Editor: Chandan Mitra. Entire Contents

Copyright (C) 2006 CMYK Printech Ltd.

All rights reserved. Reproduction or

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BHARAT PARIKRAMA

FROM THE EDITOR

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Little Black Book [p8]

Gaelyn Mendonca:

A quick peek into her

style file

Q&A [26]

The fire within:

Ritu Beri

Abbey

Archives [p38]

Echo from the roof

of the world:

Songtsen Library

Trek Trail [p42]

Lace up your

boots: Amazing

trekking

destinations

East Bound: [46]

Arunachal Pradesh

Offtrack Secrets [p56]

Sanctum of solace: Naranag

Market Mantra [p64]

The superplex is changing

the movie-watching scene

in the country

Chef ’s Treat [p72]

The Italian Job:

La Piazza on its

food legacy

Oriental

Nectar [p82]

The elusive

spirit: Japanese

whisky as

exotic liquor

First Hand [p88]

The royal hair cut:

Truefitt & Hill

Swimwear

collection [p92]

Summer sizzlers:

The heat is on

MAY 2016 VOLUME 10 NO 7

COVER PHOTO: BHUMESH BHARTI/SONGTSEN LIBRARY

DEHRADUN

Kushan Mitra [p62]

Hotwheels: The Mile-Muncher

Magandeep Singh [p98]

Blithe spirit: Homegrown high

Sri Sri Ravi Shankar [p100]

Guruspeak: The Unending duet

Bharat Thakur [p102]

Fitness: Yoga for varicose veins

Sanjay Jumaani [p104]

Numbergame: Count your fate

I N S I D E

C O N T R I B U T O R S

O U R P A R T N E R H O T E L S

[p38]

Send us your feedback at [email protected]; Facebook: www.facebook.com/Exotica-394686670715776

[p26]

[p92]

[p8]

[p82]

[p88]

TOTAL NUMBER OF PAGES 108 INCLUDING COVER

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GAELYN MENDONCA

is a VJ, model and anactress in the Hindi filmindustry. She is curentlyhosting MTV Roadies X4

and is an avid dancer

FAVOURITE HAUNTS OF STYLISH PEOPLE

I love music as I love to dance. I

have eclectic tastes and I listen to

everything from Bollywood to

Beyonce. Currently Jason Derulo

and Arijit Singh are on my iPod.

I have a huge wanderlust in me.

Spain is my favourite place to holiday at. I last had a vaction in Bangkok

with my girl gang and I plan to go to Cambodia next.

I’ll always go for a nice pair of

sunnies from Ray Bans.

I’m a tall girl so you would mostly

find me in ballerinas or boho-

styled flats. Currently I love

wearing Adidas originals

collection when it comes to casual

footwear. Apart from that I also

own a lot of Aldo and Steve

Madden shoes.

I think my favourite fragrance has

to be Eternity by Calvin Klein. I’ve

been wearing it since college.

When it comes to watches I love

wearing Michael Kors and Tissot.

EXOTICA [8]MAY 2016

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NEWDelhi has

won the best

destination to holiday in the world

with Cambodia being chosen as the best

destination in Asia. TripAdvisor announced the

winners of its Travellers’ Choice awards with India

grabbing the second spot in Asia for the best destination

chosen by travellers. The survey also identified top-rated hotels as

well as popular attractions for travellers offering more insights about

great things to discover in the award-winning destinations. The top five

travellers’ choice destinations in India came about to be New Delhi, Jaipur, Goa,

Mumbai and Udaipur.

FLIGHT

TO PARADISE

T R A V E L N EWS

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EXOTICA [12]MAY 2016

INa land of snow peaks and sherpas, yaks and

yetis, monasteries and mantras, where

ancient temples, shrines, palaces and monuments

offer a glimpse into the past, Chitwan National Park

is a real jewel. From its prime position nestled on

the banks of the Raptiriver, Meghauli Serai offers

spectacular views of the park across the river from

its 30 rooms and suites. Taj Safaris, the creators of

India’s first luxury wildlife travel circuit in Madhya

Pradesh, have opened their first lodge outside India

— Meghauli Serai at the UNESCO World Heritage-

listed Chitwan National Park, Nepal.

THE WILD SIDE


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SUN AND SAND

IFyou are thinking of where to

spend your summers next, then

look no further as Jamaica is the

place to be to soak under the lovely

sun. The island country is perfect to

ditch the heat as the weather in

Jamaica is always vacation-friendly.

The country is home to some breath-

taking beaches, stunning resorts and

scintillating waters. It’s home to

many waterfront treasures waiting to

be discovered by beach lovers. The

azure waters of the Caribbean also

offer a number of activities like

scuba diving, snorkelling among

others. Jamaican shores are known

for their live reggae music, delicious

jerk cuisine and beach bars. Some

of the beach gems include Doctor’s

Cave Beach, Seven Mile Beach,

Silver Sands Beach to name a few.

Taking a horseback ride and swim is

one of the most popular adventurous

activities of Jamaica along with river

tubing safari and white water rafting.

A SUMPTUOUS HONOUR

ADAA,the Hyderabadi fine-dining restaurant at

Taj Falaknuma Palace, has been

included in the list of 100 best restaurants in the world by

Elite Traveller for second time in a row, improving its

ranking by nine stops to finish on the 91st position. The

restaurant has been featured for two consecutive years as

the only Indian restaurant to be named in the world's top

100 list comprising mainly American restaurants. Adaa is

the only inclusion from South Asia. As part of the

celebration, Executive Chef Sajesh Nair curated a

gastronomical extravaganza of royal recipes from the

kitchens of the Nizams. Taj Falaknuma Palace is renowned

for its legendary hospitality and inspired dining

destinations, continuing the tradition of fine living with

custom tailored dining experiences.


KENYArecently received

five destination

awards at the 23rd annual World Travel

Awards (WTA) in Africa. The awards

included various coveted categories

such as best National Park, Beach,

African Cruise Port and Tourism Board.

Principal Secretary Fatuma Hirsi

applauded the industry players who

have consistently showcased the

country amid challenging times.

Speaking at the event, she singled out

Nairobi as indeed having become a

city of choice for international

conferencing and stating their

happiness with the role that the

Kenyatta International Convention

Centre (KICC) has been playing. Kenya

will be hosting UNCTAD and TICAD in

July and August 2016 respectively.

KENYA CALLING

LUXE AFFAIR

ITCis setting up a new hotel under their brand, “My Fortune”, in

Guntur, Andhra Pradesh. The hotel will offer 144 rooms, an all-day

dining restaurant, speciality restaurant, bar and deli, plus a “wellness zone”

equipped with a gym and spa. And for the MICE market, the hotel will

feature a pillar-less ballroom that can accommodate around 500 guests.


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TOWARDS A

GREENER FUTURE

THETaj recently became

the first hotel group

in the world to have its 50 hotels

achieve gold certification in the

same year, having completed a

minimum of five years of

continuous benchmarking

through EarthCheck certification.

Various hotels from the Taj Group

portfolio, ranging from Rambagh

Palace to Taj 51 Buckingham

Gate Suites and Residences were

awarded with data revealing an

average 28.6 per cent reduction

in energy, water and waste and

$6,107,585 in savings for the

group. With this Taj Hotels Resorts

and Palaces has confirmed its

position as a true world leader in

responsible tourism and a

genuine source of inspiration to

the international tourism

community. The Taj EARTH

sustainability programme is an

initiative which reiterates the

company’s conscious efforts

towards sustainability and is

aligned with Tata ethos of

keeping communities at the heart

of doing business.

THE MAKEOVER

CHENNAI’Siconic Vivanta by Taj — Connemara

will undergo a complete renovation.

Built in 1854, the legendary hotel

after refurbishment will ensure that

the discerning traveller finds all

modern amenities and conveniences

discreetly placed beneath the hotel’s

old world charm, colonial legacy and

heritage for which it has been

admired for over a century.


E V E N T CA L E N DAR

1ST MAY

[NEW HOME

OWNERS’ DAY]

If you’ve recently taken the

plunge and purchased a house,

New Home Owners’ Day is the

perfect time to celebrate with

your friends.

4TH MAY

[PIN PETITE AND

PROUD DAY]

It’s all about celebrating our

lack of height and the

advantages it brings. Besides

short people live longer than

their lankier counterparts.

5TH MAY

[CARTOONISTS’ DAY]

The anniversary of the

publishing of the first ever

colour cartoon, The Yellow Kid,

in 1895. Now cartoons are a

core component of many

newspapers and publications.

9TH MAY

[LOST SOCK MEMORIAL DAY]

It’s inevitable — for every load

of laundry you sort through,

there are odd socks. Over time,

you may even find that you end

up with entire drawers and

storage boxes filled with odd

socks. But worry not.

14TH MAY

[CHICKEN DANCE DAY]

The Chicken Dance is a

tradition at weddings, childrens’

discos and family events. In

order to get some practice in,

take some time on Chicken

Dance Day to learn to dance

like a chicken.

15TH MAY

[DRAWING DAY]

Drop everything, pick up a

pencil and draw — and then

share your art. Drawing Day

(sometimes referred to as Pencil

Day) encourages to spread the

joy of drawing by sharing your

creations with the community.

17TH MAY

[PACK RAT DAY]

We’re all a little bit materialistic

and tend to buy, own and hoard

more stuff. The Day encourages

us to embrace the fact that we

really want to value and keep

things we buy and shouldn’t

throw our old belongings.

MAYFAREYour bizzare guide to cruise through wacky days this month


13TH MAY

[FROG JUMPING DAY]

It’s a great day to jump like a

frog. Or is today intended to

jump over a frog? The roots of

the day go back to Mark

Twain’s first short story. It was

first published in 1865 as Jim

Smiley and His Jumping Frog.

6TH MAY

[NO PANTS DAY]

Feeling constrained by

your clothing and taking it off to

relax in the privacy of your

home. Well no more as this day

is the perfect opportunity to

brandish your toned or even

untoned legs.

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T H I N K S K I N


PLAY OF HAND

Hermès Toolbox: Perfect for

everyday, the Hermès Toolbox

embodies the Hermès aesthetic

of streamlined style married to

functionality. This jewel-toned

Toolbox in matte alligator

amethyst is sure to grab

everyone’s attention with the

matte crocodile skin.

Chanel Lego: First introduced by Chanel in the

Fall/Winter 2014 grocery-themed runway

collection, the Lego clutch is as much an object of

desire for art connoisseurs as it is for handbag

collectors. Crafted from Plexiglas and lined in

lambskin, the Lego clutch can be held in hand or

worn over-the-shoulder with a removable

shoulder strap.

Horseshoe Birkin: Extraordinarily

rare and desirable, there is no

greater status symbol than the

Horseshoe Birkin. The jewel-toned

amethyst crocodile exterior, crafted

from the finest of the exotic skins,

contrasts beautifully with the bright

blue chevre interior. The porosus

crocodile — known for its symmetric

scales is buffed with an agate stone

to reach its lustrous finish.

Hermès Birkin: There is nothing more chic

than the classic Hermès Birkin in the brand's

signature orange hue. This bright and cheerful

tangerine ostrich skin stands out as an

exquisite piece.

Hermès Nilo Crocodile:

This electric blue bag is

a showstopping, modern

interpretation of the

timeless Hermès Drag

Bag. Streamlined in

design for the 21st

century, the Drag Bag —

both beautiful and

practical showcases the

brand’s high standards

for functionality and

attention to detail.

Handbag specialist CAITLIN DONOVAN selects five standout pieces from

Christie’s sale to update your wardrobe

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Q &A


Her covetable designs and personal style sensibilities speak of her

inimitable and invincible attitude. Like a phoenix, she has reinvented

herself time and again. From bringing back the romanticism of Victorian

era in her collections to rooting for khadi as the ‘fabric of the moment’,

RITU BERI has donned enough hats in her illustrious lifespan.

Celebrating 25 years in the industry, she has penned down the story of her

life, narrating the journey of her first love, fashion, and how it has shaped

her in two books. In the middle of her autobiographical moments, she

talks her heart out to RINKU GHOSH

026_037_RITU_BERI(12).qxd 2/13/1950 7:25 PM Page 26


What prompted you to come up with two books at this benchmark moment

in your life?

After 25 years in the fashion industry, this is certainly one of life’s

full circle moments for me. It is a time to look back before going

ahead. These books are an exciting portrayal of the various

experiences I encountered through my fashion journeys. People

know my name but not my story. They know what I have done but

not what I have gone through, my struggles and how I got around

them without following any formula. I have learnt a lot and evolved

tremendously as a designer and even more as a person. I’m very glad

and proud to make my life the way it is at present. It took me about

two years to complete the books. I hope it works as an inspiration.

Maybe somebody can learn from my experiences.

How are the two books different from each other?

Of the two books, one is an autobiography, which documents my life

from childhood to how I ventured into fashion. The second is a

coffee table book which revolves around everything that has inspired

and shaped me, including the karmic connect I’ve had with Paris. It

captures my life graphically with several quotes on fashion.

I think once you have done everything in life, books are the only

means to tell your story for the world to know and understand you.

Besides, they hold value for any young designer who wants to break



OUT OF THE TWO BOOKS, ONE IS AN

AUTOBIOGRAPHY WHICH DOCUMENTS

MY LIFE FROM CHILDHOOD TO HOW I

VENTURED INTO FASHION. THE SECOND

IS A COFFEE TABLE BOOK WHICH

REVOLVES AROUND EVERYTHING THAT

HAS INSPIRED AND SHAPED ME

INCLUDING THE KARMIC CONNECT I’VE

HAD WITH PARIS. IT’S BASICALLY

CAPTURING OF LIFE WITH SEVERAL

QUOTES ON FASHION


into the European market and grasp its nuances. When my generation

started out, there was no media coverage of fashion as an emerging

industry. Today, fashion is an integral part of any media platform. Also as

a nation, we don’t value the importance of documenting our current

history. I have been very lucky in that respect because my team has done

an excellent job in archiving our many milestones. Did you know that I

did the country’s first bridal show in 1997? The same year I introduced the

concept of a fashion week, called India Fashion Week, and launched 25

young designers. I also launched the first kids’ fashion week with several

editions of the Baby Beri shows. Each of these categories has now

spawned multiple editions backed by industry consortiums. I hope the

books genuinely help people to chase their dreams and fork their own way

ahead even when there is no template to fall back upon. Finally, I did the

books for my daughter Gia, so that she understands where her mother

comes from.

Of course, I was encouraged by the fact that my earlier books did very

well. The title, 101 Ways to Look Your Best, sold out in hours and we went

into reprint the very next day! Firefly did very well too. Though not strictly

an autobiography, I would prefer to call it a fairy tale.

Your hands are quite full these days with the Luxury League. What’s it about?

Does it have an alliance with the government’s “Make in India” initiative?

I have been working on the Luxury League for quite sometime now

though my experience in initialising it got me a chance to speak at the



I DID THE COUNTRY’S FIRST

BRIDAL SHOW IN 1997. THE

SAME YEAR I INTRODUCED

THE CONCEPT OF A FASHION

WEEK, CALLED INDIA FASHION

WEEK, AND LAUNCHED 25

YOUNG DESIGNERS. I ALSO

LAUNCHED THE FIRST KIDS’

FASHION WEEK WITH SEVERAL

EDITIONS OF THE BABY BERI

SHOWS. EACH OF THESE

CATEGORIES HAS NOW

SPAWNED MULTIPLE EDITIONS

BACKED BY INDUSTRY

CONSORTIUMS


“Make in India” conference in Mumbai. It is sad

that there is no Indian brand that’s recognised

globally despite the fact that historically we have

been connoisseurs of luxury. Our royals were

the reason brands like Cartier became popular.

Our maharajas had at one time picked up

everything that you associate with grand living

today and given them cult status.

Yet, we could not develop a global brand

considering we have the widest range of

artisanal strength and craft to create products

of great hand-made value and uniqueness. We

have a huge talent pool. What is needed is the

right perspective, packaging and marketing.

There are several bottlenecks in promoting the


Indian fashion industry, which is just 25 years

old, a novice compared to fashion houses in the

West which are hundreds of years old. Some of

our own talented designers have been picked up

by them. But no home-grown brand has managed

an alliance.

If you look at it, it has taken a Westerner, John

Bissell, to promote Fabindia, as a recognisable,

wearable Indian brand. We do not yet know how

to put things together the right way; it is either too

much or too little, an extra button there or a

threaded patch too less. We need an eye with a

global perspective to package our art, to identify

what works in the world market and help weavers

and craftsmen create a contemporary vocabulary.

We always look at our fashion from a tribal and

ethnic perspective.

It is for this reason that I have put together the

Luxury League, a think tank which has experts,

consultants, analysts, industry and government

representatives from home and abroad, to brand

India. We have already had round tables with

luxury consultants. We are also promoting young

designers who work with home-grown fabrics and

marketing their collections as well.

I strongly believe that for Indian fashion to

go really global, we have to get to Europe and

America and follow the Zara model of doing

business. Year after year, that brand reports strong

earnings only because it is a highly integrated

retail business, swiftly responsive to new trends,

does accurate forecasting of categorywise sales

and maximises margins.

Does this mean you are not into Paris at the moment?

I give Paris my time and I have not moved away

from it. Just as I have not stopped designing my

lines and have been able to hold on to my clientele.

But life is short and I do not want to do anything

only because it is supposed to be done. This phase

of my life is about passion and giving back

something to society. And passion should not

become business. For me my two foundations,

Baby Beri and Luxury League, are fun and

innovative. I now want to make khadi global and

IT HAS TAKEN A WESTERNER, JOHN BISSELL,

TO PROMOTE FABINDIA, AS A

RECOGNISABLE, WEARABLE INDIAN BRAND.

WE DO NOT KNOW HOW TO PUT THINGS

TOGETHER THE RIGHT WAY; IT’S EITHER TOO

MUCH OR TOO LITTLE, AN EXTRA BUTTON

THERE OR A THREADED PATCH TOO LESS.

WE NEED AN EYE WITH A GLOBAL

PERSPECTIVE TO PACKAGE OUR ART



give it the stature of linen. It is luxury because it is hand-made and

an international fabric to reckon with.

You have been appointed advisor for Khadi and Village Industries

Commission (KVIC). What changes do you propose?

I feel really fortunate to get an opportunity to serve on a board to

revive khadi. It’s our national fabric and there’s so much that can

be done with it. We intend to do effective promotions and

exhibitions to enhance its image. Our endeavour is to encourage

national and international fashion designers to create their

collections using khadi. Since it’s a powerful pre-independence

fabric of India, we need to make it the fabric of the moment.

Khadi is a true weaver’s delight. It is the most organic,

breathable, comfortable and dyeable fabric that can be styled in

many ways. In the hot summers, khadi is the fabric of the hour.

The Indian Navy recently incorporated khadi for one of its batches,

Uttarakhand’s postal department ordered khadi for employees and

Air India also decided to use khadi products for amenity kits on its

international flights. Do you think the fabric is finally getting a

wider acceptance?

From designer collections to uniforms for hotels and corporates,

khadi can be used across a wide spectrum. It would even be

interesting to declare a “Khadi Day” to motivate people towards

wearing a home-grown fabric. Prime Minister Narendra Modi

recently said his government wants to create a network of Khadi

Gramodyogs across villages to provide more job opportunities. The

sector employs 12.5 lakh individuals with 82 per cent of women.

The Khadi and Village Industries Commission boards have been

imparting skill development training programmes to women at

various levels.

You have said that giving khadi a global silhouette and a

modish treatment will help millennials have a better

connect with it. How do you plan to go about it?

The only way to popularise the weaves of India is

market them well at a domestic level and then

venture out of India. And I do realise the

importance of the youth being involved in this

process. Khadi has always been associated with

politicians and the youth of the country has

always found it boring and unfashionable. I plan

to take khadi to colleges. The idea is to design

clothes which are trendy with cutting edge

FROM DESIGNER

COLLECTIONS TO

UNIFORMS FOR HOTELS

AND CORPORATES,

KHADI CAN BE USED

ACROSS A WIDE

SPECTRUM. IT WOULD

EVEN BE INTERESTING TO

DECLARE A ‘KHADI DAY’

TO MOTIVATE PEOPLE

TOWARDS WEARING A

HOME-GROWN FABRIC


designs and are at par

with global designs

and brands.

In what capacity do you think

social media can be employed

to promote the khadi story?

Internet is the best tool to

reach out to the masses.

Khadi is an amazing fabric

but its qualities have not

been recognised. What we

need is awareness, strong

advertising and promotion

at every level. It’s

absolutely crucial that

mainstream designers add

handcraft and handloom

to their vocabulary for

weavers and artisans to be

nurtured. What has been

happening until now is

that designers show

interest at the initial

stages only, after which

they go back to their

imported or modern

fabrics, easily abandoning

the craftsmen. We need to

change that mindset.

With the government’s

initiative to popularise Indian

fabrics, many designers are

hopping on to the “Make in

India” or “Made in Banaras”

bandwagon. Do you think

Banaras is being overdone to

the detriment of our varied

textile heritage?

I think the Banaras

story is commendable

as that’s where it all

started from. And though

there is a big noise which

has been created around

it, I think every state in the

country has its own skill

set and is promoting its

art and craft in much the

same manner. But I agree

that some of the textile

heritage needs immediate

attention. Like my

personal favourite, the

Kanjeevaram sari. It is so

regal and elegant, yet it

has lost its appeal today

because of its bulkiness.

We have to adapt it for the

younger generation or the

sari-making tradition will

be under stress and

confined to a very localised

market. I have done

Kanjeevaram jackets and

other innovations for

young people.

The problem is

weavers’ children don’t

want to stick to the

profession anymore and

are looking at corporate

jobs. Finding somebody

who knows the native

weave is a luxury. But if we

could incentivise artisans

with policies and convince

that his city education

would also rescue his

exclusive family trade, we

would have gennext

weavers who are in sync

with the times. We need

to set up textile museums

to document the journey

of our thread. People like

Laila Tayyabji (craft

revivalist and founder of

Dastkar) have been



sourcing and saving rare craftsmanship like the

Lambani and Rabari embroidery simply on their

own steam. We need to immediately modernise

design sensibilities with the help of experts or risk

losing our folk and native traditions. Worldwide

fashion houses have died because of this.

Some of the strengths of the Indian textile

industry are the large pool of skilled and

experienced labour at unbelievably inexpensive

prices. There is a huge demand of Indian

textiles even in international markets because

of their versatility and this is expected to

grow at a rapid rate in the future thus

contributing towards the economic development

of the country.

What is the role of NIFT (National Institute of Fashion

Technology) in taking fashion to the next frontier? Isn’t

it just a factory churning out an assembly line?

To me, NIFT is still the mother institute of

fashion though right now it is in a mess. I was

fortunate to have had the best faculty in my time.

However, the biggest mistake we’ve made is

opening up too many NIFT centres, 16 at last

count, to cater to growing demand. In the process

the faculty is not professional and students, who are

not so successful in the design trade, return as

teachers. So quantity has meant a decline of

expertise and experience. The institute must be

run by a person who understands that institute,

textiles and fashion. Otherwise things cannot work

on the ground.

I think this is true of other sectors as well. In

India, the school education is good but at the

institutional level, we do not even figure among

the top 100 global institutions. We should

probably sit down together and do something

about it.



What is your take on the blitz of fashion weeks?

Do they serve their intended purpose, namely

improve bottomlines?

I agree that there is just too much going on and

the dust has to settle down. For India to succeed,

everything has to be India-specific. We cannot

follow seasons in the domestic market like it is in

the West. You have spring for two days and then

there is blazing summer... we need to celebrate our

events and festive seasons. Only then will the

business of fashion make sense.

Designing is not an easy business to be in

because you are constantly under performance

pressure...it is still easier in India because you can

show the same collection in Mumbai and Delhi. It

is way too competitive in the West, enough to wear

you out. Which is why we need to figure out we are

not churning out stuff for its own sake. We must

follow practical logic.

What hampers the Indian fashion industry from making

a mark on the global fashion map?

Our fashion industry is only 25 years old which is

very young and it’s absolutely unfair to compare

ourselves with the global industries in

international circuits which have been in existence

for centuries. There is a need to have an

international perspective to make it go global.

People now believe in India, they want to wear

what’s being produced here. Initially we were not

so great with the Western silhouettes and cuts but

now we are improving on that aspect as well.

Besides, there is some dynamic entrepreneurship

in India with conglomerates like Reliance getting

into the fray. We need to go to US and Europe to

get economies of scale. But foremost we need to be

proud of our own identity. Even my eight-year-old

daughter complains about all things “Made in

China” but I think it’s our time now.


FOR INDIA TO

SUCCEED,

EVERYTHING HAS TO

BE INDIA-SPECIFIC.

WE CANNOT FOLLOW

SEASONS IN THE

DOMESTIC MARKET

LIKE IT IS IN THE

WEST. YOU HAVE

SPRING FOR TWO

DAYS AND THEN

THERE IS BLAZING

SUMMER. WE NEED

TO CELEBRATE OUR

EVENTS AND FESTIVE

SEASONS. ONLY THEN

WILL THE BUSINESS

OF FASHION

MAKE SENSE


A B B E Y AR C H I V E S

ECHO

ROOF

WORLD

FROM THE

OF THE

ON

the tree-lined

Sahastradhara Road, a

quiet lane meanders in an

unassuming way flanked by trees and

modest houses as it leads to this majestic,

awe-inspiring centre. Named after King

Songtsen Gampo, hailed as the father of

Tibetan Culture, Songtsen Library is a

spectacular replica of Tibet’s first castle built

in 2nd century BC — the Yumbhu Lakhar.


038_041_SONGTSEN_LIBRARY(4).qxd 2/13/1950 7:25 PM Page 38

PHOTOS: BHUMESH BHARTI

If you like to seek spiritual and intellectual meaning in your travels,

Songtsen Library girdled by the Himalayas, with gorgeous views of the

valley of Dehradun in North India, promises a blissful retreat for self-regeneration.

ANUPMA KHANNA settles in



The place is very rich in character and its stone

walls and landscape make an instant impression.

Nestled between the holy cities of Haridwar

and Rishikesh, it is skirted in the West by lush

shrubland in front of a hill on which long lines of

Buddhist prayer flags dance in the wind. With its

cultural richness, serene setting and mystical

architecture, Songtsen attracts discerning

travellers, spiritual seekers and scholars from

across the world while being untouched by mad,

modern tourism.

Constructed between 1999 to 2001, Songtsen

Library was established by the head of the Drikung

Kagyu order of Tibetan Buddhism, His Holiness,

the Drikung Kyabgon Chettsang Rinpoche, and

was inaugurated by the XIV Dalai Lama in 2003.

The retreat draws its name from the 33rd

Dharma King of Tibet, Songtsen Gampo (617-650

AD) credited with bringing Buddhism to Tibet. The

great Dharma King brought the teachings to

flourish in Tibet — his memorial stands as a

monument and an image of hope. Legend has it

that the king sent sons of ministers to India to

study the Bhotiya script of the Himalayan regions

of Ladakh and Kinnaur before the Tibetan script

was born. And as one takes in the splendid vista,

the eyes are rivetted on a beige-coloured vintage

Mercedes Benz exhibited in a glass house — the

one used by Dalai Lama from 1964 to 1982.

THEintricate art painted on the doorway

of the sanctuary is based on the

door of the Potala in Tibet. The thangkas adorning

the ceiling are a stately confluence of ancient

cultures — the Persian, Tibetan and Chinese. The

most unusual of the paintings is that of Nyatri

Tsenpo. There are a few rare thangkas depicting

Tibet's first king (c. 127 BC) and old traditions.

Artist Rinzin Chodrak created an original

composition based on the council of artists at

Kumbung Labrang in Amdo, Tibet. During this

council, they collected the existing biographies and

myths of his life forming a source for the narrative

in the painting.

And paralleling its architectural marvel are the

rare manuscripts and literary collections it houses.

A collection of particular significance is the one on

the Dun Huang documents, the earliest written



sources on Tibetan society and history. One of the

earliest sources on diverse subjects on Central

Asian culture like astrology, religion, philosophy

and geography, the original manuscripts date from

around the 6th to the 12th century and were

discovered at various caves on and near the

famous Silk Route of Central Asia.

Then there are the Buddhist Kagyur (Buddha’s

voice) and Tengyur, the commentaries, the

personal collection and journals of the erudite

pioneer of Buddhism, Lama Anagarika Govinda.

Born in a German family, he became a Buddhist

and dwelt in Almora in the mid-eighties. He is

believed to have introduced Buddhism to the West.

The library also houses over 6,000 digitised format

Buddhist texts procured from the Tibetan

Buddhist Resource Centre in New York.

The spiritual haven has a peaceful, undisturbed

meditation room perched above the terrace of the

edifice with an exhilirating view of the encircling

mountains. Adding spiritual charm to this pious

place is a huge statue of Avalokitesvara, a

Bodhisattva who embodies the compassion of all

Buddhas, made in pure sandalwood. This tower-

like construction at the back that houses a shrine

to Avalokitesvara was added after the building

plans were approved. It was constructed at night

because according to Indian law of the time, once

the roof was tiled, a building could not be brought

down. Nevertheless the planning department was

very pleased with the results and granted approval,

according to records.

“It was to be no ordinary building as its

outward appearance was intended to reflect its

function of preserving and transmitting Tibetan

tradition,” describes Elmar Gruber in From The

Heart Of Tibet. “After the library was completed, an

area beside it was cleared for construction and a

major new school of higher Buddhist studies, the

Kagyu College, was soon built with an impressive

temple at its centre. Inside the Lhakhang an

enormous statue of Shakyamuni Buddha is flanked

by Nagarjuna and Asanga.”

PEOPLEfrom around the

world come for a

retreat here for a few days to even six months.

There are high quality and modern guest lodgings

for visitors, scholars and researchers in the idyllic

environs that can be booked for a nominal rent by

sending an email request to the director of the

library. There are also good hotels in the vicinity.

Sahastradhara, one of the most popular tourist

destinations of Uttarakhand, is very close to the

retreat and a must visit for travellers. Meaning

“thousand fold spring”, Sahastradhara is an

invigorating excursion spot with remarkable

natural beauty marked by waterfalls, caves

where water drips from limestone stalactites,

making the water sulphur abundant. If

architecture be music in space, Songtsen Library is

a song for the soul.



T R E K T R A I L


LACE UP YOHere are some lesser known but

amazing trekking destinations

— best kept secrets of North

India — with their

magnanimous mountains and

plunging valleys

ROOPKUND LAKE: It lies in the lap of Mt

Trishul and has overwhelmed many travellers

with its innumerable eerie stories. The lake is

actually a mountainous graveyard where

thousands of skeletons can be found. Legends

range from it being a mass grave of soldiers to

being a burial ground of the Mongolian army.

The only way to find out is to get there.

GETTING THERE: Train to Kathgodam — private

taxi or public transport to Lohajung.

MARKHA VALLEY TREK: It takes the

trekkers to Ganda La and Kongmaru La

passes which are among the highest in

the world. The place is laced with green

fields, willow trees and a palace

providing insight into Ladakhi history

and culture.

GETTING THERE: Leh to Spituk is 7 km

and can be reached by bus or cab.

042_045_TREKKING_DESTINATIONS(4).qxd 2/13/1950 7:25 PM Page 42


OUR BOOTSPARANG LA TREK:

It originates from

Kibber, a high

altitude hamlet in

the Himalayas,

which is also the

home to the rare

snow leopard.

Trailing closely with

the Tibet border, the

trek falls between

the ancient route of

Ladakh and Spiti

Valley.

GETTING THERE:

Kibber is a remote

village in Himachal

Pradesh and the

safest way to reach

is by hiring a cab

from Kaza or

Manali.

SINGALILA

PASS TREK:

With fascinating

glimpses of Mt

Kanchenjunga and

its surrounding

peaks you will be

ascending through

the rhododendron,

giant magnolias,

spruce and other

forests of

Maneybhanjan.

GETTING THERE:

The trek base Hilley

is 150 km from New

Jalpaiguri railway

station in Kolkata.



PATALSU PEAK

TREK: This trek

takes you through

some exhilarating

terrains to provide

the most amazing

views and is located

near the Solang

Nulla district of

Himachal Pradesh.

An easy day hike

around Manali, it

enables you to

explore some of the

magnificent villages

like Shanag, Solang

and Burwa.

GETTING THERE:

Himachal Pradesh

Tourism operates

buses.

SUDARSHAN PARBAT TREK: A prominent

peak on the trail from Gangotri to Gaumukh,

Sudarshan Parbat trek is often approached

through the Raktavarn Glacier route. The trek

trail itself is a vibrant combination of level-

walks, gradual climbs and steep ascent

going through glacial paths, birch forest

and rocky inclines.

GETTING THERE: The nearest railhead is

Haridwar. You can also take a cab or bus

from Delhi to Gangotri.

BORASU PASS TREK: A

connecting passage between the

Himalayan Range of Himachal

and Uttarakhand, the Borasu Pass

trek is a unique experience. The

trails of this amazing trek pass

through the Har Ki Dun Valley and

also through the Marinda Lake

leading to lush meadows.

GETTING THERE: Dehradun is the

nearest rail head to Sankri, which

is the starting point of the trek.

From there Sankri is at an

approximate distance of 186 km.



SNOW LEOPARD TREK: Sprawling over 600 sqkm, the Hemis National Park in Ladakh is

home to the elusive snow leopards. A trek to this park through stunning locales comprises

unknown views of the Himalayan range and pictorial landscapes.

GETTING THERE: You can easily get to the Hemis National Park by hiring a car or by

accessing public transport as it is barely 5 km away from Leh Airport.

MILAM GLACIER TREK: Yet another

engrossing trek in the Kumaon region,

this takes you to some of the remote

settlements of Uttarakhand. Around 28

km in length, it can be strenuous in

nature, depending on the weather and

climb.

GETTING THERE: The nearest rail heads

to Munsiyari, the starting point of the

trail, is Kathgodam. You can hire a car to

take you from Chaukori to Munsiyari.


E A S T B O UND


!goValley ahead,

THE UPPER DIBANG VALLEY IS A SIGHT FOR SORE EYES WITHITS SNOW-CAPPED MOUNTAINS MAKING EVERY OTHER

POSTCARD LOOK LIKE A POOR COPY. AS SNOW FLAKES ROLL INTHROUGH OPEN WINDOWS, THERE IS STILL SO MUCH

WARMTH AROUND, THANKS TO THE FRIENDLY IDU MISHMIS

snow

046_054_ARUNACHAL_SHOW(9).qxd 2/13/1950 7:25 PM Page 46


AS

I lie back in the car, my eyes shut, my body jangling to the

swerve of the tyres, I can sense that there is something

different in the air. I half-open my eyes and look out the

window. The colour. It seems a lot brighter than usual. I sit

upright and am amazed at what I see. It’s a whiteout. And the sun is bouncing off

every frozen pore. It’s the first time I am seeing snow and as cheesy as it sounds,

it feels quite magical watching the little flakes drunkenly float about, directionless

till gravity pulls them to earth. I roll down the window and the flakes filter in and

stick to my skin. It is tingling, it is exhilarating, the cold creeping up on me with a

furry softness.

We are at Mayudia, a hill station at Lower Dibang Valley. It is situated at a

height of 2,653 m amid majestic hills, lush green forests and breathtaking

landscapes. And of course, snow, as far as the eyes can see. But let me first start

with the beginning of the journey at Roing.


A DRIVEfrom Tinsukia, Assam, brings us

to Roing, a small town in Lower

Dibang district, the land of the Idu Mishmis. The place is

officially described as “beauty at the foothills” but at an

emotional level, it means much more to me. It is like

travelling back in time. With scarce population, it gives

conveniences a miss and yet shows how conveniently simple

life can be.

I remember a magazine article describing Idu Mishmi as

one of the least spoken languages in the world which is on the

verge of extinction. I meet a young tribal man called Jibin at

an eatery in the evening. He has been born and brought up

here but now studies in Delhi.

He likes to explore the truth on bicycle, he tells me, but I

find it hard to believe that a bicycle can traverse the rugged

terrain. Between mouthfuls of rice and dried fish, he tells me

that his friends in Delhi are always very inquisitive about this

place and the first joke almost usually is, “Are you rowing all

the way to Roing?”

“My friends always ask me about the place I live in because

it is unknown to the world,” he says. It is through his and

many references that I get to meet a community leader. When

he learns that I have some interest in nature and wildlife, he

takes me to one of his agricultural fields. He carries his gun

with him, and I think this may be for safety from elephants

and other wild animals, as his land is next to the Mehao

Wildlife Sanctuary, one of the largest and least explored

Roing: Beauty in the foothills




areas. Crossing Deopani and Etapani rivers, we

reach the gate of his property, and before I can

understand anything, he aims his gun at the tree

canopy. His driver runs and brings two local birds,

still warm. The proud leader exclaims, “You may

have the forest produce for dinner today.” And he’s

made sure he hasn’t touched anything that is

endangered or forbidden.

I spend the next few days meeting Idu Mishmi

men with colourful, interesting dresses and

identical haircuts, carrying guns with them and a

dao, all of which I later understand are a part of

their identity. With my binoculars, I show some

colourful pheasants and mammals to the

community leader and explain to him how people

from across the world will be happy to see these

animals in their wild habitat.

Dibang Valley can be divided into two parts.

The uptown has all the picnic spots like Deopani

river, Mayudia, a hill resort, Mehao and Sally lakes,

Iphipani river, a park and a zoo. The downtown

has a mix of commercial outlets, churches and

temples. Some good Chinese and northeastern

food joints are also found here for the

conservative. An evening downtown is a heavenly

treat for your taste buds as you can treat yourself

to a variety of momos and steaming thukpas.

The centre of the town is where you will find

residents living inside homes built on thick

concrete pillars. It is done to minimise the effects

of earthquakes that frequently rattle the town. All

homes look similar with slanted rooftops for the

rainwater to drain away. The soil is very fertile and

every home has its own garden with flowers and

vegetables. Looks like all of life’s needs can be met

under a roof.


FROMRoing, our destination is

only 60 km but the roads

delay us quite a bit. We haven’t even gone 10 km

when cold winds begin to surge in. Fearing rain,

we strive hard to move ahead. After packing

myself with three sweaters and a cap, the rhythmic

sound of the engine makes me drowsy and I

go off to sleep only to wake up to the white

mountains, bewitching in their beauty and

almost frightening in their rugged severity.

Friend or foe, I wonder but nevertheless, we

stop our car, step out and start making ice men

before moving on.

We reach Mayudia at nearly 4 pm when the sun

is going down, its rays colouring the whiteness of

the surrounding with a tinge of orange. We go

around town looking for a place to put up but all

guest houses are full at this time. One of the

keepers, however, recommends a hotel nearby and

we reach there hoping to find a warm place to rest

our wearied bones. It is only the next morning that

we discover we indeed have a room with a

stunning view. The whole valley is awash with the

sun that brightens the cottages built precariously

on the slanting hills, the snow blobbing out the

harsh edges like a smooth bridal trail. Such is the

beauty that it makes me wonder why filmmakers

rush to Europe for shoots when they can get the

best right here in India.

We go to the town square where tourists gather

to play with snowballs. I am surprised to see a

group of Buddhist monks in the crowd, chasing

and throwing snowballs at each other like school

children. On participating in a little play with

them, they tell me that they have come from

Namsai in the Lohit district. “We are just here to

see the snow,” one of them tells me.

Like Mechuka in the West Siang district,

Mayudia in Upper Dibang Valley district is

close to the China border. The place derives its

name from Maya, a Nepali girl who disappeared

in the snow years ago. Trackers failed to locate

her but came back with stories of an out-of-this-

world place.


Mayudia: A walk in the snow



Anini: Waiting to exhale

THEsnow, the source of so much

happiness, can also be the

biggest obstacle in driving. We soon find out

that the road from Mayudia to Anini is

painstakingly slow due to the mud and slush

on the tracks. We strive on, hoping to reach

Anini before nightfall. For my fellow

travellers and I, Anini will be a tryst with the

unknown since we hadn’t even heard its

name before entering Arunachal.

We reach the small town almost as the

sun disappears from between the mountains

and it appears frozen in time, guarded

preciously by mountains which rise as high

as 5,000 m.

Anini in Upper Dibang district is one of

India’s remotest places, with just four

persons living per sq km. This is primarily

due to the area’s closeness to international

borders. But as they say, our best discoveries

are still under wraps.

Here, houses are sparse and locals mostly

sustain themselves through rice farms.

Vegetables are cultivated in the backyards

and animals reared in the forests that range

from tropical to coniferous and alpine

in the higher reaches. The biodiversity of

the area, though very rich, has not been

studied properly and possibilities exist

of discovering new species of both flora

and fauna.

The Idu Mishmis appear friendly and

jovial, their evenings a series of chats

accompanied by local rice beer and home-

grown meat. But to experience the best of

Idu Mishmi hospitality, one must visit the

place in February when the valley comes

alive with music, dance and community

feasting. The Reh Festival is the height of

any cultural celebration. Anini is the last Idu

Mishmi point in India, but like every land

locked bordering syndrome, same

communities share cross-border areas.


During one of my walks I meet Deng, a farmer

who also runs a small grocery shop. After telling

him that I am visiting as a tourist, he invites me to

his house that has been built just behind the shop.

Seated in the wooden house with just one window

(to avoid chilly winds), he tells me that this place is

not very frequented by tourists. “People usually

come till Mayudia to see the snow and then head

back,” he says.

The culture of this region is as distant and

mysterious as the mountains. The Idu Mishmis as

an indigenous tribe have thrived in the valleys for

thousands of years. These highlanders follow an

animist religion and a lifestyle which is unique,

sustainable and fascinating. Believers of a supreme

being known as Nanyi Intaya, they have faith in

their shamans who look after many aspects of

society like festival, birth, death, treatment of

illness, hunting and issuing verdicts. The Idu

Mishmis are superbly skilled craftsmen who use

bamboo and cane extensively to live a sustainable

life independent of modern influences. Though

expert hunters, their culture is primarily

agricultural and gives importance to fellow

creatures - the hunting of many wild animals is

considered a taboo and the guilty are often cast

away for days.

Anini is the only town in the entire Upper

Dibang Valley district. With a population of a few

thousand, the town has one basic government run

guesthouse where the caretaker is always happy to

take care of visitors who make the effort to come

this far. Only a few shops exist apart from

government offices, residential areas and a

military base. There is not much to do other than

submitting to the languid atmosphere, the



humbling mountains and the rolling grasslands.

After leaving Deng’s house, that is what I do. I

climb one of the hills and laze around, watching the

cattle ignore me. The valleys here open up to

magnificent grass, bamboo and conifer expanses.

Damben, a lonely military outpost some 20 miles

from the border with China, is where the road ends.

We drive there in the afternoon. The road turns

out to be extremely scenic, alongside the Dri river

and crosses impressive countryside and bamboo

forests. Another road on the east of Anini ends in

Mipi, a small settlement of Tibetans whose ancestors

had arrived here centuries ago in search of the holy

land of Beyul Pemako, considered by them to be a

hidden realm on earth, the shape of a lotus.

For adventure enthusiasts, the region offers

numerous offbeat trails which cross extraordinary

forests and remote villages. For wildlife lovers, the



Dibang Wildlife Sanctuary, a 4,000 sq km primary

Himalayan forest, is located amid virgin nature and

exotic biodiversity. Due to the lack of infrastructure,

the wildlife sanctuary can only be explored through

hiking and camping. Rare mammals can be found in

the region, such as Mishmi Takin, red goral, musk

deer, red panda, tiger and even the rare snow

leopard at higher elevations.

Call it hope or call it divine grace but just

because the locals give back so much to Nature,

it rewards them with abundance. The tiger and a

rare butterfly returned to the wild a couple of

years ago. The circle of life, complete as it were. So

for me, it is my forever land. And possibly my best

shot at nirvana.


ANINI

MAYUDIA

ROING

D I B A N G VA L L E Y

LOWER

DIBANG

VALLEY



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055_SUPP_KENT(1).qxd 2/13/1950 7:25 PM Page 55

O F F T R A C K S E C R E T S

056_061_NARANAG(6).qxd 2/13/1950 7:25 PM Page 56

The ruins of Naranag in

Kashmir Valley are

believed to have been built

by pilgrims as a

thanksgiving gesture for a

successful pilgrimage to

Harmukh. The temple

complex rustles to the

sound of the Sindhu.

KHURSHEED WANI

gets drawn in

PHOTOS: ISHAQ AHMAD

THE

morning broadcasts convey

the message that Kashmir is a

unique place for tourists. It

maybe a cliche but truth is Kashmir’s paradisiacal

variety does leave you at a loss for words. The

overnight rainfall in the Valley has lowered the

temperature by several notches to the extent that it is

difficult to move round without woollens. And, in the

immediate neighbourhood of the north Indian

plains, a heat wave has turned river flats into

furnaces. Scores of people have died and it is just the

beginning of a long spell of scorching heat. The

difference in climates is one of the major reasons for

arrival of planeloads of tourists to Kashmir every day

irrespective of how unpredictable the local situation

turns out to be. Beginning with the tulip bloom at

the end of March to the arrival of the “darling buds

of May”, spring is one of the most cherished and

distinctive features of Kashmir’s vacations. Of late,

travellers are more eager to fan out to unexplored

destinations away from the traditional circuit of

solace

ofSanctum


Gulmarg, Pahalgam and Sonamarg. This is partly

due to a pleasant change in the travellers’ taste to

look beyond sceneries and locales and explore

other extraordinary features of Kashmir.

Few places in the world have a recorded history

spanning several millennia and Kashmir is one of

them. The archaeological sites scattered in every

nook and cranny of the Valley, some partially

intact and others decaying with perpetual and

deliberate neglect, are a testimony to its rich past

and its glorious outreach beyond the Himalayas.

This has encouraged a new brand of Kashmir

explorers to go out in quest for history and

anthropology and blend it with testing their

adrenaline while hiking to hill stations and off-the-

mark destinations. Over the years, Naranag—a

historic place in the midst of dense forests in the

northwest of Srinagar, almost 60 km from the city

centre — has turned into one of the most-sought-

after destinations.

ON

a misty April morning, it is

natural to pick up woollens

before setting out for a day-long

trip to Naranag. You never know how the weather

turns out in Kashmir, especially when you are in

the hills. In a matter of minutes, the sun

showering warmth perpendicularly is enveloped by

clouds and a cool breeze begins to blow. Suddenly,

a drizzle starts and temperatures fall. In such a

situation, the travellers with no handy woollens are

destined to go through a harsh experience.

Nevertheless, it is a warm Friday morning

when we begin the trip from Srinagar to Naranag.

There are many road choices to hit but the charm

of boulevard road along the Dal Lake is irresistible.

A quick round over Dal’s curvature has a soothing

effect to tune you in. Few rowing boats or shikaras

are visible in the expansive lake, some ferrying

vegetables towards Hazratbal shrine that stands

majestically in the backdrop. Only a few of



swallows flutter wings over the lake’s

shimmering waters to signal that summer

has enough time to arrive.

It takes an hour and a half to reach

Kangan village on the Srinagar-Leh highway,

which is blocked beyond Zoji La pass for the

past four months due to accumulation of

heavy snow. At Kangan, we take a left turn

towards Wangath—a cluster of villages,

mostly inhabited by tribal Gujjars—perched

on plateaus and mountains. Every frame

that appears after negotiating a curve

increases curiosity until the road ends.

Interestingly, the road culminates at the

gates of the first temple of Naranag. The

cool breeze blowing from the Harmukh

mountain range and an eternal music played

by the tributary of Sindh rivulet that passes

by, as if touching the feet of the temple

enclave, still and humble you in an instant.


The temples, originally built between the first

to eighth centuries of the Common Era, are a

treasure trove for archaeologists and history

enthusiasts. Some of the temple portions seem to

be intact but most of them have been damaged due

to perpetual neglect, official apathy and vagaries of

weather and times. Huge slabs of greyish granite

are scattered in the premises with local Gujjar

children playing something like cricket in a

pathway. A decrepit signboard tells us it is a

monument protected by the Archaeological Survey

of India (ASI).

BUTthis doesn’t stop the curious

investigators. A small group of

students has travelled from a far-off Degree

College, Sopore, to study the architecture and

historic importance of the site. “This is of

tremendous significance to Kashmir’s cultural

links to Central Asia and Europe,” says Prof Rafiq

Ahmad, who leads the group of students. He adds

that apart from being a important archaeological

site, Naranag is contesting for an identity between

a trekking base to Gangabal and a religious teertha

for Kashmiri Hindus who find their own Ganges in

the western Himalayas.

One temple has been tin-roofed to prevent

further deterioration. Ahmad tells you that several

rulers have contributed to building an assortment

of temples and sites dedicated to various deities.

There is a mammoth pedestal that was used for

bathing deities. A bathtub carved out of a single

rock is an eye-catcher and tell-tale sign of the craft

and grit of the ancient Kashmiri craftsmen. One of

the oldest historical references on Kashmir,

Rajtarangni written by Kalhana, has detailed the



misfortunes which befell the twin temple

complexes, thanks to palace intrigues and

enemy attacks.

Adjacent to the western temple enclave is the

Naranag, the main spring that gives the place its

name. The water oozes out from the base of a

plateau, which is now home to a cluster of local

families. They say the water comes from Gangabal

Lake, perched miles away in stunning grasslands,

15,000 feet above sea level. The Gangabal lakes are

actually two in number, almost identical, which are

fed by the glacial melt of the Harmukh mountain

ranges. Those who do not have the gumption to go

for a day-long trek followed by a overnight stay,

return by having a look or taking a glass of water

at Naranag.

WEdecide to trek up to Domail, a

confluence of two Sindh tributaries. It

takes us 40 minutes on a pebbled path. Gul

Muhammad, a local woodcutter, informs that

Gangabal trekking is not possible till May-end as

the passes are insurmountable due to presence of

snow. At every shady place, we can see small

glaciers oozing out a trickle of milky water.

Muhammad says that Gangabal is the latest

obsession for bold sight-seers who want to

surmount the captivating green or barren brown

hills even at the expanse of taking risks.

Another villager Wali Khan says that Gangabal

is fast turning into a trekker’s paradise as

hundreds of foreigners and young Indian

enthusiasts begin to flock the area between June

and September. “It is like the old days have

returned. My father says that the route was in

huge currency before the Partition. It was

frequented by cattle traders who would travel to

Gilgit and Baltistan (now in Pakistan) through the

Gurez Valley,” he says.

Hotelier Maqsood Ahmad says that a few years

ago, Gangabal was introduced by a global travel

publication as a promising trekking route. “Ever

since, the route is becoming a favourite

destination among foreigners”, he says. The

expansive pastures, earlier dotted by shepherds

and their flock, have been replaced by summer

tourists.

“Naranag has an incredible historic importance

and Gangabal offers the best opportunities for

adventurous people, including trekkers,

mountaineers and anglers”, says Prof Rafiq. From

Dumail, we hasten to beat a retreat as the sun

begins to hide behind clouds. On our way back, the

refreshing scent of pine forests and the music of

the stream gurgling under round boulders remind

us why the mystic sages retreated here.



IT

is one thing to drive a car on the smooth lovely Alpine roads of

southern Switzerland but another to take that same car down an

Indian highway. When I drove the new Audi Q7 in Europe, it was

utterly brilliant.

The new car, which definitely looks far less aggressive and muscular than

the car it replaces, feels far more planted on the road, far steadier and could

handle the lovely switchbacks on the climb up to Verbier. Not something you

would expect a big bruiser such as the Audi Q7 to do. But as we mentioned

about the looks, this car is like a heavyweight boxer in a slim-fit tuxedo. It

has even reduced a bit of its dimensions.

As it is the second-generation Q7, it has lost a lot of weight, thanks to

more aluminium being used in the body and feels far more refined than the

previous generation car. Yet, it also seems to have lost some of that brutish

charm that it once had. And that is apparent on the highway, where despite

HO

TWH

EELS

Kushan MitraAuto &

tech expert

THEMILE-MUNCHER

The Audi Q7 is a

great highway car

and on India’s

brand new

tarmacs, it eats

miles for breakfast,

lunch and dinner


062_063_KUSHAN(2).qxd 2/13/1950 7:25 PM Page 62

its size, it lacks the imposing nature of the previous

generation car. Not that people do not move out of

the way of this Q7 when they see it approaching at a

massive rate of knots.

The Q7 will mainly be bought by people with an

oversized sense of importance and driven to places

where they should not be driven — Delhi’s Khan

Market for example. However, it is on the highway

that the Q7 actually shines. The brilliant new

highways that Nitin Gadkari promised us are

actually being delivered and the Q7 is a treat to

drive on these fabulous loads. For one, like the old

car it has a lot of space. Unfortunately, the spare

tyre takes up almost a third of the luggage space.

Unlike BMW India, Audi has not decided to

trust “run-flat” tyres as customer experience with

them has been really poor. In Europe and America,

all these cars now have modern tyres that remove

the need for an underfloor spare but in India,

buyers burned by the first generation of run-flats

are demanding a spare and Audi India is giving

them one.

Yet, given that the boot is the size of a small

house, there is still more than enough space for a

few large suitcases and more. The spare will have to

be removed, which requires a few minutes of

manual labour, if one wants to access the two seats

of the third row though. So despite the weight and

size loss, the car is still huge inside. And quite

comfortable too, both in the first and second row.

One could easily fall asleep in the back and not feel

a thing. The brilliant sound system makes the car

sound like being inside a concert hall. And the air-

conditioning? Well, in 40 degree heat, it chills the

car in no time.

AS

for the driving experience, this

refined beast is wonderful. It can

build up speed fairly quickly and

change direction rapidly when instructed. Few Q7s

will ever go off the road in India but the air

suspension is soft and the car will raise itself in

difficult terrain. In fact, the hill climbing and

descent qualities of the Q7 are surprisingly good if

you ever find a need for them.

However, with the Supreme Court’s current ban

on diesel cars with engines greater than 2000cc

being registered in Delhi, the sad fact is that you

can’t have one if you live in the capital right now.

Which is a pity really, because this new car is a class

leading vehicle and at ` 72-77.5 lakh ex-showroom

extremely good value for its size as well.

062_063_KUSHAN(2).qxd 2/13/1950 7:25 PM Page 63


M A R K E T MANTRA

FOR

a nation that loves and celebrates its

cinema, thriving and feeding on multi-

crore blockbusters, laughing and crying

as the reel rolls out in the theatre, it’s not a surprise that we are

the biggest movie-making machine in the world. Our films

continue to be, unchangingly, the only source of mass

inspiration and entertainment, something so significant and

ritualistic that the entire process of venturing out to watch a

movie is still no less than a big day of sort.

One that has transformed the dynamics and business of

watching a movie, from single screens to multiplexes and now

superplexes, which are offering allied and interactive experiences

and enhanced indoor comforts. If the seats have gotten plusher

and already give you the lie-flat slider, popcorn in the couch

experience, wait till you have had a 4DX, a three-dimesional

visual experience with augmented reality. It is nothing short of a

theme park experience, rolling, moving, spinning, swooshing,

bathing, splashing and splattering in a moveable seat with three-

dimensional special effects raising your hair. Whoa, they even let

you smell dinosaur piss from secret vents and jets!

From multiplex to

megaplex to superplex, the

cinema-watching experience

has slowly but steadily been

changing. How is it going to

evolve further and can it

lure the millennials living

in the parallel universe

of their digital lives to

come out of their cocoon?

DEVI SINGH attempts

some answers

064_070_MULTIIPLEX(7).qxd 2/13/1950 7:25 PM Page 64

Gourmet meals get delivered to your seats

while even the popcorn now has an amazing array

spanning buttery, mushroomy and the

caramelicious. Kids can have an extended day out,

watching their favourite characters come alive on

the big screen as they sit back in bean bags with

specially designed popcorn tubs. And should they

feel bored, there’s a mini play area where minders

watch over them. Adults get love seats to cuddle

up. But if you are a serious movie aficionado, then

maybe you can sift through a library or movie

memorabilia and participate in a director’s

workshop on premiere night.

With almost two decades since the first movie

theatre with multiple screens made its way to the

hearts of people, there are now 2,000-odd

multiplex screens in the country. But this is one

business which can never go sluggish as movie-

watching has become a combined gaming, dining,

mall-trawling and a lounge package. According to

figures, the multiplex industry in India has the

potential to go up to 10,000 screens.

With an occupancy rate of 37 per cent and a

reported footfall of `66 million, PVR’s online sales

contribute around 36 per cent of the total ticket

earnings. The company’s consolidated revenue

for last year stood at `1,486 crore. It recently

launched the PVR Icon brand, which is an

ultra-premium category.

In June, PVR acquired DT Cinemas for `500

crore. The multiplex operator currently operates

477 screens across 44 cities in the country with four

brands across different price points namely PVR

Talkies, PVR Cinemas, PVR Premium and the

newly-launched PVR Icon. It’s targeting to touch

1,000 screens by 2018 through organic growth.

Inox Leisure Ltd, India’s second-largest

multiplex operator, acquired Satyam Cineplexes

expanding Inox’s presence to 50 cities, with 91

multiplexes and 358 screens.



Known for its inorganic growth, Carnival

Cinemas, owned by Shrikant Bhasi, started with

three screens in Kochi. Today the company has a

strong foothold across south India and plans to

have 300 screens in the country by entering

smaller towns and cities. They aim for 1,000

screens by 2017. The group also owns a cafe chain

and lounges.

THE GAME-CHANGERS

THEpioneers of the multiplex revolution

in India, the Bijli brothers of the

PVR group, seem to be on a roll with their next

offering — the superplex. Having changed the

dynamics of the exhibition business in the country,

they are now focussing on the world’s best

technology to take the movie-watching experience

to the next level. And though PVR may not have the

scale of chains in the US or China, the brothers,

Ajay and Sanjeev, being buffs themselves from an

early age, are offering the best in the world to the

Indian audience in terms of sound, projection or

immersive technology like 4DX and IMAX.

“The whole idea of a superplex has been on our

minds for sometime now. But it came about only

after we got a large space where we could house

the entire brand under one roof. We wanted to

create a space where people could watch all

formats that are currently available in the world.

Naturally, if you have 15 screens, you can play more

movies, be it English, Hindi or regional. We have

done a dipstick and found out that certain regional

films will draw in viable numbers. The mix of

bigger and smaller auditoria helps us play around

a bit. The multiplex exposure has indeed boosted

the appeal of regional cinema. As a first, we are

also playing movies which are slightly old, have

had their run but are still popular enough for

viewers who have missed them in their three

weeks on the screen. I myself missed watching

WE WANTED TO

CREATE A SPACE

WHERE PEOPLE

COULD WATCH ALL

FORMATS THAT

ARE CURRENTLY

AVAILABLE IN

THE WORLD.

NATURALLY, IF YOU

HAVE 15 SCREENS,

YOU CAN PLAY

MORE MOVIES, BE

IT ENGLISH, HINDI

OR REGIONAL

— AJAY BIJLI


Neerja and wished it was playing somewhere. That

way we could generate some business out of

residual interest,” says Ajay Bijli.

Seconds his brother Sanjeev Bijli, who believes

the superplex really helps in sustaining the

programming as that gives more space for multiple

films in India with six releases a week on an average.

A superplex, besides providing multiple

formats under one roof, is mutually beneficial for

the production and distribution houses. This is

because movies, which were earlier being released

in selected formats or centres or were not showing

in India at all, are getting screened, resulting in

better revenue generation.

“Superplexes are a way forward and should

be a good module wherein people will prefer to be

at a cinema for watching sports and private

screenings as well all under one roof,” says Kunal

Sawhney, Associate VP, Operations and F&B,

Carnival Cinemas.

THE IMAX MANIA

IMAXbrings the experience of a huge

screen and better picture

quality in a grand way which has a better recall

value among its patrons. With 4DX, one can feel,

smell and move along with the films. The level of

viewer participation is such that he is almost in the

frame, if not in the director’s chair. This trend is

expected to drive the exhibition business further

despite a sluggish film market.

According to data published in a CII report,

with a higher proportion of multiplexes since 2010,

Indian customers are more aware, discerning and

willing to experiment with new genres.

Technologies like 3D, IMAX and animation and

VFX have gained traction leading to a higher

Average Revenue per User (ARPU). For instance

3D movies command 40 per cent higher ticket

prices than 2D films. “I think with technology

evolving at such pace, it’s helping in pulling people

back to the theatres, a trend which was fading

away,” says Sawhney.

Multiplex owners like INOX are keeping pace

with this demand of the techno-savvy audience.

“The IMAX technology is a breakthrough in the

movie-viewing experience. By associating

ourselves with IMAX, we are shaping the future of

cinema,” says Rajender Singh, VP, Programming

and Distribution, INOX Leisure Ltd.

THE WHOLE IDEA IS

TO TAKE AWAY THE

INCONVENIENCE

OF WATCHING A

MOVIE ON A MICRO

SCREEN AND TO

ENHANCE THE

EXPERIENCE EVEN

MORE. YOU CAN’T

BEAT THE GIANT

SCREEN, THE

SERVICE AND THE

FACT THAT IT IS

AN OUTING

— SANJEEV BIJLI



THE INTERNATIONAL STORY

THEimpetus for rising film

consumption has come from

an increasing number of screens, although

screen density in India is pretty low with 9 per

million compared to 25 in China and 125 in

the US. So where do the Indian multiplex

giants stand compared to the big daddies? “In

terms of the number of screens, we found

ourselves very small but qualitatively we are

as good as any international format,” adds

Sanjeev Bijli.

The US has almost 40,000 multiplex screens

whereas China has 20,000 and India has a little

over 2,000 multiplex screens. Long way to cover

for sure. The growth trajectory has not been pacy

enough. “We are a country selling maximum

tickets but when it comes to movie screens, we are

grossly under- screened. In India, we have just

over 2,000 multiplex screens and around 10,000

screens altogether. But we do believe that this is

the perfect time for the multiplex industry to

expand all across the country,” Singh points out.

PVR has broken through by targetting Tier II and

III cities which can consume enough content,

given their healthy local and aspirant upper

class character.

THE YOUNG INDIAN CHALLENGE

HOWare multiplexes luring

the young Indian to the

cinemas as the newer breed seems to be more

comfortable with the idea of downloading and

watching in the comfort of their own space and

zone? Ajay Bijli disagrees. “My children are a

good litmus test for me; I can gauge and perceive

a lot through them. I think even after many

technologies available at home, kids still want to go

out. Movie-watching is now a component of the

entire night-out experience.”

How can multiplexes or even superplexes bring

something new for the consumer at a time of

digital streaming and downloads on personal

devices? Explains Sanjeev Bijli, “The whole idea is

to take away the inconvenience factor of watching

a movie on a micro screen and to enhance the

experience even more. You can’t beat the giant

screen, the service and the fact that it is an outing

of sort. We don’t want to be the reclusive bunch of

people who depend on their downloads for

entertainment. There has to be some sort of

romance, an activity, hanging around with friends

and family. So we try to keep on improving the

concept of watching a film.”

PVR also plans on having a loyalty group



at their Superplex which is an extension of

their good CRM build-up for tailor-made events

like meeting a director, filmmaker and private

screenings where people can book a theatre for

a small group.

Agrees Sawhney, “I think a multiplex offers

you a lot more options to get you out of your

den. It has got food, best in-class seats, state-of-

the-art technology and finest services calling for

a wholesome experience.” According to

Singh, Indian cinema exhibition business is

shifting towards two polar points, convenience

and technology.

A PUSH TO REGIONAL CINEMA

EVENthough multiplexes have always

encouraged regional cinema in

big cities, there were still not many takers for it.

“In Delhi, we found Tamil movies work well. So

that’s one of the advantages of having a large

screen format as we will be able to provide more

regional films depending upon the catchment,”

says Sanjeev Bijli.

“Indian cinema, of course, is about more

than just Bollywood. Over the years, films in

other Indian languages have been upping their

game with good content. With an increase in

the release of these films every year, I definitely

believe multiplexes have contributed a lot,”

says Singh.

Seconds Sawhney: “We couldn’t have imagined

a regional movie like Bahubali could be released in

so many languages and cross a milestone of `500

crore. With urban migration, there’s a demand

for regional content which is not limited to a

certain state. We have seen Bengali movies doing

well in MP and Telugu in Punjab, which is like

apples and oranges.”

THE IMAX TECHNOLOGY IS A BREAKTHROUGH IN THE

MOVIE-VIEWING EXPERIENCE. BY ASSOCIATING OURSELVES

WITH IMAX, WE ARE SHAPING THE FUTURE OF CINEMA

— RAJENDER SINGH


WHAT LIES AHEAD?

Arecent trend of acquisition and buyouts has resulted in

maximising profits for joint operations but many say it’s not a

healthy alternative for expansion. Growth needs to be organic. For

instance in the last two years, Carnival Cinemas has been competing

with big chains of the industry edging its way to the top. By 2014 there

were four major players in the multiple-screen theatre business

namely PVR, Inox, Big Cinemas and Cinepolis. By the end of the year,

Carnival Cinemas, after having acquired Big Cinemas, came to the

third spot. Likewise Cinepolis too bought out Fun Cinemas.

Clearly the focus lies in moving on to small cities and towns which

are still untapped areas for multiplexes. “We have a lot to do in India

with tier II and III cities. We open about 60 screens a year, which is a

large number, and it’s difficult to venture out of the country. If you

take your eyes off the ball then you lose the focus. The only place we

are looking outside India is Sri Lanka for its huge film consumption.

We would be signing a project there which will come about in three

years,” informs Sanjeev Bijli.

If the stakeholders work collaboratively to improve the screen

density, increase multiplex penetration, the industry can scale new

heights especially in virgin towns and cities. These chains also need to

find models for creating new screens outside malls if mall development

stagnates. As long as we fantasise, the film-watching experience will

become our personal escapist pod. Nothing else would matter.

WITH URBAN

MIGRATION,

THERE’S A DEMAND

FOR REGIONAL

CONTENT WHICH

IS NOT LIMITED TO

A CERTAIN STATE.

WE HAVE SEEN

BENGALI MOVIES

DOING WELL IN

MP AND TELUGU

IN PUNJAB

— KUNAL SAWHNEY


S T Y L I S H A F FA I R


THE

most talked about fashion and accessories lifestyle

exhibition by Sonal Jindal drew a large number of

city’s fashionistas. It was an extravagant affair as

over a 100 fashion designers showcased their latest collections. The

exhibition had everything from the hottest accessories, to trendy

footwear and apparel which kept the patrons busy.

Talking about the high points of the exhibition, Sonal Jindal

said, “Medusa exhibition brings together the best of designers and

clientele looking only for exclusive and classy designs. We bring

some of the most innovative and elegant, trendy fashion which befits

the status and taste. We aim to showcase only the finest collection to

the visitors.”

She further added, “We have been getting an overwhelming

response for Medusa, as we saw many buyers coming in to shop at our

last exhibition. We are now gearing up for more seasons, where in lots

of designers are coming up with new trends and creativity.”

Medusa has emerged as a platform for latest trends in the fashion

industry. It is widely regarded as the industry’s existing and next big

thing, attracting a number of buyers. It promises the clientele will be

dazzled by its portfolio which is an intriguing array of traditional and

innovative materials and techniques.

SONAL JINDAL organised MEDUSA, an

exclusive fashion and accessories exhibition

luring the fashionistas in the capital

ALL THE WAY

GLITTER

071_SUPP_MEDUSA(1).qxd 2/13/1950 7:25 PM Page 71

THERE

was never an iota of

déjà vu for him even

after donning the

familiar-looking apron and stirring up a meal in the same

environs. For the affable chef Alessandro Sandrolini, coming

back to the place he had been associated with before was as

exciting as when he started out. “It always feels new even if

you come back to the same place again. You always create new

experiences and memories for yourself,” says the super chef.

That thrill he owes to his parents. As a child, he would see

them gather ingredients, set up the table, cook and lay the

food with much love, surprise and joy, which inspired him to

pursue cooking as a career. Having been associated with

various Hyatt properties throughout his 28 years of


It was almost seven years ago when he

joined La Piazza as chef de cuisine after

a brief stint in Tuscany. It comes full

circle for him as he returns to his fave

kitchen where he loves to roll his sleeves

up and show his culinary skills off.

Hyatt Regency Delhi introduces Chef

ALESSANDRO SANDROLINI as

Executive Sous Chef. By DEVI SINGH

C H E F ’ S T R E AT

072_075_HYATT_SANDROLINI(4).qxd 2/13/1950 7:25 PM Page 72

professional life, he says, “It’s never a change of place but my

passion for food, which remains the same. It does take time to

adapt to new places but I feel if you know your job well, you

can get accustomed to any place in the world.”

La Piazza, with its “trattoria” appeal, plays with your

senses in the right way. Being one of the legendary places to

relish Italian food, it has stood the test of time since its

inception. Elaborating on what sets it apart from the rest

of the Italian restaurants in Delhi, he says authenticity is

the only key. “La Piazza is a historical place which dates

back almost 20 years. There are not many places where

you get an Italian cooking up traditional authentic food for

you,” he shares.

Speaking on the inspiration behind the new menu, the

chef tells us each dish has been thought of keeping the

modern casual essence of the restaurant in mind. “The

concept of La Piazza is more of a casual dining experience. So

we wanted something which is a bit more modern than fancy.

We want to make our guests feel at ease by serving them

dishes which are not too tough to understand and at the same

time delectable too,” says he.



INDIAN INFATUATION

WITH ITALIAN FOOD

INDIANShave

always

been besotted with Italian food. Circa 90s,

they were initiated to the piquancy of tomatoes in

a never tasted before avatar with herbs unknown

and far off. Though an entirely different set and

mix of spices were doing the job of tantalising

their palates, there was a certain familiarity

hitting their taste buds. Since then, Italian cuisine

has spread its wings in every nook and corner of

the country. The essence of this can be found

today in our kitchens filled with aromas of Italian

herbs. So much so, our amateur cooks try their

hands at getting the traditional recipes right

watching YouTube.

So what is it about Italian food that ticks the

Indian palate? Is it the similarity between Italian

and Indian cuisine and the shared love for food

which both countries have? “I feel the sameness

comes from the fact that both cuisines are based

on carbohydrates. Both countries use rice or flour.

Both are rich in fats. We use

cheese and Indians use clarified

butter. Both use the same kind of

ingredients. Be it the flavourful

tomatoes, which Italians use as sauce and

Indians use in the form of rich curries, or spices

such as thyme which is prevalent in both the

cuisines,” says the chef.

Much has to do with the way food is celebrated

in both countries. The close-knit familial bonds

and the common love for hearty family meals are

just the same.

TOO CLOSE YET TOO FAR

SOcan Indian food be reinterpreted in an

Italian way or vice versa? Asked to

name one Indian dish that he would want to alter

according to the Italian palate, the chef replies,

“Well as similar the two cuisines might seem to be,

I won’t like to change anything. I think Indian

food is extremely flavoursome on its own with its

unique spices and taste. It can’t be replaced by any

other cuisine and the same goes for Italian food.”



Admitting that he is not good at cooking Indian,

the chef does have his favourites — butter chicken,

chicken tikka and authentic Indian chicken curry.

Living in Delhi for long has also turned him into a

street food fanatic. “It inspires a strong sense of

belonging. My weekly indulgence in chaats makes me

feel a part of this country.”

WHAT COMES NEXT?

MANYwould think Italian food has

reached its peak in terms of

global exposure. It’s not just about getting the basics

right anymore. People know it, love it, have tried

making it, some of them have got it right, some are still

at it. From a small pizzeria to high-end restaurants

serving gourmet meals for two, making it one of the

most romantic cuisines in the world, Italian food is

one business option which is bound to turn lucrative.

You can make it easily at home with its gooeyness

spreading certain warmth and comfort. Can

experimentation or reinterpretation help build a

renewed excitement around it? Or is it going to stay

the way we know it? “The traditional recipes will

acquire a modern twist. Of course with time

people will come up with new things on the table.

That’s on my agenda too and you will see that in the

new La Piazza menu that we have introduced recently

which is full of traditional recipes like ravioli with a

twist, for instance,” he concludes.


R A V I O L I R E C I P E

THE DOUGH

Mix 700 gm of semolina with 300 gm of fine

flour and make a small mountain with a well

in the centre. Add 10 whole eggs with extra

virgin olive oil and a pinch of salt. Knead it

for 15 minutes. Let the dough rest.

THE STUFFING

Mix 500 gm of ricotta cheese, 100 gm of

grated parmigiano or grana padano cheese,

500 gm finely chopped blanched spinach,

pinch of grated nutmeg, salt, pepper, one

soup spoon of extra virgin olive oil with one

soup spoon of regular flour together and

keep the mixture in the fridge.

MAKING RAVIOLI

Make a thin layer of pasta around 18 cm by

pressing it through pasta machine. Brush the

dough a little with egg wash to make sure

the ravioli doesn’t open while cooking. Place

some ricotta cheese and spinach mixture in

the middle of the pasta layer with a distance

of 5 cm in between. Fold the dough to cover

the mixture and with a round cutter of 8 cm

diameter cut the pasta at half moon. Take

each corner of the half moon ravioli and stick

it together. Place the ravioli with some

semolina flour to rest for at least an hour to

keep the shape intact. Place it in boiling

water until al dente.

THE SAUCE

Pan fry onion and garlic in extra virgin olive

oil, add tomatoes, salt, pepper and fresh

basil leaves. Keep cooking for not more than

2 minutes. Add butter and a little water for

that creamy consistency. Place the ravioli in

sauce and let it cook for another 2 minutes.

Serve it hot with parmigiano or grana

padano cheese.



What are your expectations from growth in the

tourism industry? What forms of tourism do you see

as potential growth areas in the coming years?

The tourist footfall has definitely increased in the

last year. We’ve seen a lot of improvement. Earlier

in 2014, we only had 60,000 foreign tourists visiting

Telangana whereas this year, it has already

crossed 1.5 lakh. Hyderabad was their first port of

entry. But if you account for all the people who

come in after disembarking at Mumbai, Delhi

or Bengaluru, then the number will go up to

five lakh.

In terms of domestic tourism, we are doing very

well but we need to further strengthen it. Since the

growth rate of foreign tourists is phenomenal, we

would like to continue the same trend.

We are working with tourism boards of other

states, making a cooperative and a complementary

effort rather than a competing one. If people come

to Hyderabad and want to explore the seaside, we

will recommend them to visit places like Goa and

vice versa.

We want to promote Hyderabad as a leisure

and a cultural destination. It’s a cosmopolitan city

with various festivals like the kite-flying festival which

we have revived. Then we also have the

Bathukamma festival where women celebrate the

well-being of the girl child. More than a crore

women celebrate this festival in every nook and

corner of the state. Medical tourism is another area

which we would want to work on in a big way. The

next would be archaeological and historical tourism.

Telangana is the oldest inhabited place in India.

We have megalithic burials which run for 250 km

dating back to thousands of years.

Besides it’s also a foodie’s paradise where one

can relish delicious biryanis, haleem, Irani chai and

other delicacies. For women, it’s the pearl capital of

India; they can purchase exotic sarees and there is

much more to do. Film tourism is an emerging

revenue earner. We will offer a single window

clearance for shooting. More Bollywood films are

now being made in Hyderabad than in Mumbai.

What are the measures that the state is taking to

assure safety and security of tourists, especially for

those coming in from different countries?

Especially after the formation of the new state

Telangana Tourism Secretary

B VENKATESHAM shares

initiatives to attract travellers and

introduce new experiences

A

GOLDEN

YEAR

I N F O C U S

076_077_SUPP_TELSECY(2).qxd 2/13/1950 7:25 PM Page 76

and government, there has been a steady

emphasis on providing security to visitors from

home and abroad. The Hyderabad police now has

more than 1,500 vehicles. We have a mobile

application called Hawk Eye where you can send

in emergency information and the police will

respond immediately.

We’ve created ‘She’ teams which are especially

pressed into service at places frequented by

women. Plus, we have adopted e-challans to

tackle corruption.

The tourism department recently launched two

new catamaran yachts for the Hussain Sagar

Lake and helicopter rides as well. Are there

more innovations?

Our only endeavour is to introduce different varieties

of experiences available worldwide. One can opt

for hot air balloons rides and by next month, we’ll

be out with sea plane services. There will be

amphibian buses in the next three-four months

and other adventure sports like parasailing and

paragliding. The plan is to introduce it all within

six months.

The state also held an Amsterdam-based youth

festival “Sensation India 2016”. Are you working on

more such concepts?

Yes. There is a platform called “Happening

Hyderabad” and our IT Minister KT Rama Rao has

been its architect. Under this platform, we are

trying to bring all major events to the city. Sensation

was organised for the first time in Asia. We got

Sunburn too. There are a number of events lined

up. One is called Campus Out where 10,000

students from various universities around the

world will get together and exchange views on

various topics.

Anything else in the piepline other than

experiential tourism?

There will be international events and conferences.

We have also tied up with NRIs of Telangana who

have been a major source of strength for us,

especially during state formation. We are talking to

hotels, airlines, local tourist operators to come up

with special packages for this segment. We are

expecting four-five lakh foreign tourists by the end of

this year. By 2020, it should touch 10 lakh.


076_077_SUPP_TELSECY(2).qxd 2/13/1950 7:25 PM Page 77

T O Y T R A I N

THE

quaint and once quiet town in

West Bengal, Darjeeling

perches at an altitude of 6,700 ft

and has provided relief from the steaming hot

plains of Bengal to all those looking for cooler

climes for centuries.

The toy train (or the Darjeeling Heritage

Railway as it is called after being granted World

Heritage status by UNESCO) is probably the best

way to explore Darjeeling. This blue locomotive

has been chugging through these hills as long as

one remembers and is an intrinsic part of the

Darjeeling experience.

From New Jalpaiguri, the toy train gets to

Siliguri, crosses the bridge of the mighty Mahanadi

river and then at Sukna starts the climb into the

Himalayas. At Rangtang, famous tea gardens can

be seen and at Kurseong, you will be greeted by

the mighty Himalayan forests of maple, cherry

and chestnut.

When the train curls around some of the

villages en-route, it passes so close to the houses

that you can actually pick up clothes from the lines

in the yards without leaving your seat. Keep

looking at the views and peaks till you spot the

mighty Kanchenjunga or as it’s known in

Darjeeling, Kanchandzonga.

School children frequently jump off the moving

train, pop across the road to a sweet shop and hop

on the train a few minutes later. You can get off

during one of the frequent halts, stretch your legs,

take photographs or go and chat with the engine

driver, guard or a local shopkeeper.

In the olden times though it was one of the most

functional modes of transport, winding its way up

the hills. It carried soldiers, planters, holiday

makers, escaping the heat and dust of the plains of

Bengal and collieries of the Chhota Nagpur

plateau and European parents visiting their

children at boarding schools.

Darjeeling Himalayan Railway is

known as one of India’s most

celebrated lines. The steam locomotive

offers its passengers mesmerising

panoramas as it chugs its way up on

its two-foot gaugeDarjeeling

Discover

BY AIR: Bagdogra Airport is

96 km away from Darjeeling.

BY BUS: The bus service

from Siliguri is 70 km from

Darjeeling.

BY TRAIN: New Jalpaiguri

railway station is 62 km from

the main town.

BEST TIME TO VISIT:

Round the year except

monsoons. (July-August)

GETTINGTHERE

081_SUPP_DARJEELING(1).qxd 2/13/1950 7:25 PM Page 81

O R I E N TA L N E C TA R

elusivespiritspirit

TheThe


082_087_JAPANESE WHISKY(6).qxd 2/13/1950 7:25 PM Page 82

When a certain Jim Murraypicks Sherry cask single malt

from the unheralded Yamazakidistillery and declares it as the

best in the world, it was obvioushis words would be taken in

spirit. Coming across as asermon from his whisky bible,

the proclamation caused ripplesacross the world, bringing

Japanese whisky intocognisance of popular culture.

After American, Irish, andScotch, it is now the turn

of Japanese whisky to rule the roost.

By DEVI SINGH

WITHonly a century-old

existence and a

limited number

of distilleries, the Japanese have managed to build

their own brand of whisky by cashing in on its

exotic appeal especially in the West. A recent

phenomenon, which is yet making inroads in

India, is already riding high on the popularity

quotient among private collectors with its blends

and malts.



HOW IT ALL BEGAN

JAPAN’Stryst with whisky apparently

began in 1870 when

Commodore Matthew Perry gifted Emperor Meiji

Mutsuhito 100 gallons of American whiskey. Thus a

bond between Japanese and the drink was

established by two liquor legends Shinjiro Torii and

Masataka Taketsuru.

In 1923, Shinjiro Torii, the founder of Suntory,

built Japan’s first whisky distillery in the valley of

Yamazaki, on the outskirts of Kyoto.

In 1923 Masataka Taketsuru travelled to

Scotland to learn the art of malts from the Scotch.

He later found Nikka Whisky which operates out of

two distilleries, namely Yoichi and Miyagikyo.

JAPANESE WHISKY: WHAT’S SO SPECIAL

“THEweather in Japan is warm compared to

Scotland which ages the whisky faster

giving it a distinct taste,” says Kumar Saswat,

Corporate Director of Food & Beverage at Radisson

Blu Mbd. The summer in Japan contributes a lot to

distillation. The whisky industry thrives majorly on

dynamics of weather which is conducive to

maturation and creating the final product.

Yamazaki produces an eclectic range of peated or

unpeated barley, different yeast strains and

fermentations with a number of casks.

The pot stills in Yoichi are heated using

powdered coal, a traditional technique which is

not even found in Scotland. Nikka is hailed for

its blended malts which are re-casked and

bottled directly.

REFINED TASTE

THEYare lighter, elegant and far more

refined, closer to complex wines than

hard-nosed whiskies, making them more relatable

to the palate. “I think it’s the novelty factor which is

making people go crazy. Also, these whiskies are

easy to drink; they are not heavy-bodied like

Scotch,” says Saswat.

Another great contributor to the success of

Japanese whisky is the complementary Japanese

food which has been a huge success all over the



world. “They couldn’t market their

traditional drink, Sake, because of its

ritualistic sacrosanct appeal. Their whisky

reached the global market like sushi,

which actually worked for the Japanese,”

says Sandeep Arora, whisky connoisseur.

JAPANESE WHISKY AS

A BOUTIQUE PLEASURE

THEREare a few people in the

country who are collecting

it for their private use or jazzing up their home

bar collection. “I have a private collection of almost

all Japanese whisky labels but it’s not available

commercially on the bar menu of Dramz. People

who travel a lot and want to try something

novel are the ones who are on a lookout for

Japanese whisky. It’s for people who are willing

to buy a bottle worth `15,000 or more simply to

satiate their curiosity,” says Sunil Aggarwal,

owner, Dramz.

“I personally don't think there is any sort

of an investment in these rare Japanese whiskies.

They are more of a statement right now than

an investment. I collect them as well personally

but don’t see a point investing in them as

a private collector. You can only feel good

about it by showing it off to your guests,”

adds Arora.

THE JAPANESE STRATEGY

ASastute investors and marketers, the Japanese

have built equity for their whisky globally.

They learnt a lot from the Scots by embracing their

whisky practices.

“The Japanese have been showcasing their

whiskies at the global whisky sampling event,

Whisky Live, since 2008. Jim Murray, by selecting

Yamazaki in 2013, only leveraged the Japanese

brand of whiskies in the industry, taking it to

another level,” shares Arora.

Moreover, the availability of Japanese whisky is

very limited, which makes its presence more

significant. As he puts it, “Japanese whiskies get a

higher off take from Russia, Taiwan and the US.

India's turn comes after these markets and by the

Japanese have been

showcasing their whiskies at

the global whisky sampling

event, Whisky Live, since

2008. Jim Murray by selecting

Yamazaki in 2013, only

leveraged the Japanese brand

of whiskies in the industry,

taking it to another level



time they think of India, there’s no liquid left.

Besides, Nikka and Suntory have a direct presence

in these countries which makes them import the

liquid and invest in the brand.”

Scotch has had a presence for almost 400 years

whereas the Japanese started marketing only a

decade back. There are almost 104 distilleries in

Scotland whereas in Japan there are only two

primary players, Nikka and Suntory, with a few

smaller ones at play. The huge comparison is

obvious; even then Japanese have been successful

in popularising their product.

Arora further adds, “Japanese themselves

didn't accept their whiskies until ten years back.

They had to be introduced at highballs which

turned out to be a rage across Japan. They loved

the idea of a highball, which was nothing but

whisky, soda and ice so much so that it became a

turning point for Japanese whisky.” This was the

time when Japanese started marketing their

whiskies at global tasting affairs where they got a

lot of acceptance. Their patience, consistent

marketing and the genuine product have caught

the fancy of the connoisseurs and consumers

across the world.

THE INDIAN JET SETTERS

THEonly consistent Japanese whisky coming

to India is through global travellers.

Elaborating on the duty free culture, Arora says,

“Indians flying outside the country are the ones

who are bringing in Japanese whisky for home bar

consumption which is very defined and limited in

our country. The awareness for Japanese whisky is

definitely on the rise in India. It is still bordering

on finesse, mystique and curiosity. People will

have to consume different Japanese whiskies to

understand and have an opinion on it which I feel

is still 18 months away. It’s more of a fad right

now. Indians are just finding it fashionable or luxe

to talk about Japanese whisky.”



THE INDIAN STORY

INDIANSare still embracing

Scotch and other

international whiskies. Across the world,

Scotch continues to lead in a big way.

The other categories which are being

looked upon are Bourbon, Japanese

and Irish.

“Beam Suntory, the world’s third

largest spirit company, is still

looking to sell Canadian, Bourbon

or Scotch whiskies to India. The

Suntory range of whisky will not come

here until another two years because of

shortage of volume,” Arora adds.

“If Beam Suntory can’t cope with the quantity

for North Americans, how would they manage to

bring the liquor to India,” asks Saswat.

In India, people are still in the process of

getting a hand on these exquisite bottles. As of

now, these rare whiskies are only available at duty

free and they do not carry an age statement which

is a letdown.

“One in every 20 whisky bottles sold in America

is Japanese and because the demand is so high,

they have stopped producing age statement labels.

For instance, Hibiki Suntory 12 YO doesn’t mention

the age anymore on the bottle. They are selling non-

age statement labels to meet the demand,” shares

Saswat. This strategy might hit the Japanese whisky

market eventually

as the Orient likes its brew aged.

With Japanese creating newer styles of whisky,

the aged variant has been put on a pedestal. If a

normal 18 YO whisky costs $100 then a Japanese

label will come around at $160. “The Japanese have

very smartly succeeded in coming up with special

editions of non-age statement whisky and people

have accepted this tactic as well. People across the

world are only too happy to simply grab a Japanese

label right now, irrespective of its pedigree or age,”

concludes Arora.

The Japanese have very

smartly succeeded in

coming up with special

editions of non-age

statement whisky and

people have accepted this

tactic as well. People across

the world are only too

happy to simply grab a

bottle of any Japanese label



F I R S T HAND

Although it has just been over a month, Truefitt

& Hill already commands a certain aura of

extreme comfort which makes it stand out in the

crowd. A high end establishment at a swanky

address in the capital, catering exclusively to

men, convinces you to splurge. Boasting of

notable patrons like Charles Dickens, this one

will demand a second visit from the dapper in

you. CHRISTY VARGHESE checks in

088_091_TRUEFITT&HILL(4).qxd 2/13/1950 7:25 PM Page 88

WITHthe intention of appeasing my

parents’ incessant badgering

about looking shabby all the time

and ever-reducing chances for prospective brides, I finally

decided to pamper myself a bit. The mission brings me to Truefitt

& Hill salon, sipping on some first rate in-house coffee.

I observe wall to wall wood panelling, tapping my feet to the

lilting rhythmic blues playing in the background. Their tagline,

“Grooming Men for Greatness”, seems very much appropriate

after I find out that apart from Dickens, Truefitt has catered to

glittering names such as Alfred Hitchcock, Frank Sinatra, Oscar

Wilde and Sir Winston Churchill. Established in 1805, Truefitt &

Hill is the world’s oldest barber shop, according to the Guinness

Book of records, and are barbers and Royal Warrant holders to

The Duke of Edinburgh. This officially gives them the right to

service the British Royal Family as and when they demand or

require it. I chide myself for making a big deal out of a “puny”

haircut even if it is from the royal barbers.

That is when an extremely courteous Anisur Rehman

interrupts my train of thoughts. While engaging in some

friendly small talk, he leads me to my chair. As the

soft-spoken barber sizes up my hair, I recall the

receptionist telling me that she will have the

best barber under Truefitt & Hill’s tutelage

tend to my dishevelled bush and give me a

shave as smooth as smooth can get. I

silently, and fervently, hope that the

receptionist doesn't call every

barber here, as “the best barber

that we have”. But my

apprehension disappears in a

short while though, probably due to

the polite demeanour of Rehman.

Though he seems really intent on

attending to my hair with extreme concentration, my attempt at

provoking him into a steady conversation proves successful as he

opens up about himself and, to a large extent, the esteemed

establishment that employs him. He had been practising his trade

in Mumbai for the past 17 years and came down to Delhi after

passing an interview and a month of training to work here. “A

quick and witty Englishman from Truefitt & Hill trained us in the

techniques and customs attached to their culture. He embedded

in us trainees the thought that whatever service we provide to a

customer, one thing should always be kept in mind, the comfort

of the client is priority number one. After having learnt that last


THE ROYAL TALE

o The story of the oldest

barber shop in the world

began in fashionable Mayfair

in 1805, the year of Nelson’s

victorious battle at Cape

Trafalgar, when King George III

sat on England’s throne and

William Pitt the younger served

as the Prime Minister.

o The Royal connection is

continued to this day by

Truefitt’s barbers, who visit

either Buckingham Palace or

Windsor Castle to attend H.R.H.

The Duke of Edinburgh, while

other members of the Royal

family and the Royal household

visit Truefitt & Hill’s premises at

St. James’s.

o Truefitt & Hill have also

attended to numerous Royals

of other European courts and

famous politicians such as

William Gladstone, the Duke

of Wellington, Sir Winston

Churchill and Field Marshal

the Viscount Montgomery

of Alamain.

o Many legendary figures from

the world of arts and

entertainment, have also

enjoyed the Truefitt touch

including Charles Dickens,

Oscar Wilde, Lord Byron, Alfred

Hitchcock and Frank Sinatra

among others.


lesson, I truly consider myself to be a

part of Truefitt’s vast heritage”, Anisur

tells me, while prancing around my

chair with a pair of shiny scissors.

After he’s done trimming stray

strands of hair to signal the conclusion

of The Royal Haircut, he expectantly asks

me for my opinion on his work. Well, I

have to hand it to him, he has pulled off a

miracle of some sorts. I never have liked

the slick after-haircut look but even after

trimming my hair to an extent which I

consider brutally short, Rehman’s

handiwork makes me look not so bad, on

the whole. And no, I wasn't deliberately

prodding myself on to be optimistic about

it just because I’m spending some

money on it.

When I mention this to him,

he laughs, giving the products of

Truefitt & Hill due credit for

this miracle. “The products

offered by the house of

Truefitt & Hill are the

cumulative results of over 209

years of research and intimate

customer relationships”, he tells

me. While there are several ranges

to choose from, with each range having

its own set of products under it, the colognes

are the signature products here. To humour

me, Rehman teases my olfactory senses with a

brief whiff of every bottle that he has. Amongst

them all, I find the essence of the West

Indian Limes and Freshman cologne

captivating enough to linger on.

Since its initiation, the franchisee

has released limited products and

makes sure that the essential

composition and the appearance of

the products aren’t tampered with.

Pointing to a bottle labeled C.A.R

Cream, amongst several that are lying

in front of me, Rehman recounts an

interesting story. He tells me about an

incident of somewhat epic

proportions wherein one of the

salvage operations, amongst

numerous others, to retrieve valuable

items from the wreckage of the RMS

Titanic recovered a Truefitt & Hill

product, C.A.R Cream. How much more

closely entwined with history can this

place get, I think to myself. Coaxed by my

seemingly undying curiosity, he tells me

more about Truefitt & Hill than the official

website possibly could.

WHILEhe wraps my face in

a hot towel to

cleanse my face of any leftover foam after

the careful, time consuming Royal Shave,

Rehman tells me that every object

touching my skin happens to be a

Truefitt & Hill product,

including the towels, razor and

the shaving brush. I can hear

my vibrating (due to the

machine-aided face massage)

mind squeal with delight when

he tells me that the bristles of

the brush consist of hand knotted

badger hair.

Once he’s done, Rehman

ceremoniously dusts me off before bidding

me adieu. While wishing me well for all future

endeavours, he recommends that I should

experience the relaxing Royal Manicure and

Pedicure as well. I had always assumed

that getting a manicure or pedicure is

an act more in sync with the opposite

sex. But since I am really pleased with

the dapper treatment that I have

received from the oldest barber shop

in the world, I decide to go with the

flow and enroll myself for a pamper

session as well.

While the pair of therapists

assigned to me, Ajay Kumar and

Rahab, tend to my hands and feet with



the lavender-scented scrub before dipping my feet

into a tub of warm water, I close my eyes. The

soothing mellow aroma of the lavender bath salts

complement the relaxation-inducing churning

motions of the adequately warm water and both

sensations combine to aid me in dropping into a

trance like state.

Next thing I know, Ajay is swivelling my toes,

one by one while Rahab is applying the fragrant

massage cream. I must have dozed off or something

as I can’t account for what happened in the past 15

minutes. When I express my panic at this

unexpected occurence, Ajay assures me that he's

used to clients dropping into a brief siesta while he’s

“oiling their squeaky hinges”, which is how he

described his massages. He tells me that during the

brusque duration while I was asleep, he vigorously

scrubbed my heels to get rid of the dead skin I had

amassed over a lot of time before applying a lather of

lavender-based moisturiser. Ajay laughs whole-

heartedly when I declare that this whole procedure

seems manageable enough to do it by myself, before

asking me that why wasn’t I then taking the

appropriate measures to care for my own skin,

considering that it’s the only one I have? Saving me

from an embarrassing silence, he calmly proceeds to

tell me how we humans are too engrossed in chasing

the things they want, while shying away from doing

the things they need, like taking proper care of

ourselves. A pretty philosophical justification as to

why we need to visit salons for a monthly manicure

and pedicure, I think to myself.

BUTthere’s no bad blood between us,

Ajay’s honest, genuine smile tells me

while he shakes my hand before I take my leave.

While I descend the steps, I’m humming to the

catchy tune I heard in the salon. I feel confident

enough to approach a random stranger and strike a

conversation and when she doesn’t shoo me away,

I’m certain that I couldn’t have spent my money in a

better way. And for that moment, after my “puny”

haircut, I feel invincible. I feel like I have been finally

“groomed for greatness”.



S W I M W E A R C O L L E C T I O N

It’s that time of the

year again. Whether

you hit the beach or

the pool, these pieces

are perfect for that big

splash

CALVIN KLEIN: This monochrome

turquoise halter tankini is sure to

get the temperature soaring. A

sleek one piece with shirring detail

and bar accent. V-neck with halter

style straps. Price `6,350

MISSONI: This

multicoloured

two piece

beauty comes

with a crop top.

Price on

request.

ARMANI WOMEN: This tomato red

two piece will brighten your day at

the beach. Price `12,998

ARMANI WOMEN: Fuschia-

coloured tankini with maximum

rear coverage and straps.

Price on request.

STELLA MCCARTNEY: This

breathtakingly beautiful spring summer

performance swimsuit in orange will

make you look like a thousand bucks.

Price on request.

AGENT PROVOCATEUR:

A flowery swimsuit with a riot of

colours and accented bustline.

Price on request.

092_093_FASHION_SWIMWEAR(2).qxd 2/13/1950 7:25 PM Page 92

CALVIN KLEIN: Blue swim

shorts with yellow logo

placement with drawstring.

Price `3,600

FENDI: Black printed

drawstring swim trunks.

Price on request.

VERSACE: Printed orange

swim shorts. Price on request.

ORLEBAR BROWN: A beachy

‘setter thatching a plan’ print swim

trunks. Price `22,300

MISSONI: Shorts in navy

and white made from nylon

and Ikat stripe design

finished with a drawstring

waist, held in place with

coated wooden stoppers.

Price on request.

ARMANI: Breathable

blue shorts from the

house of Emporio

Armani. Price on request.


092_093_FASHION_SWIMWEAR(2).qxd 2/13/1950 7:25 PM Page 93

F LY H I G H

THEAIRPORTS Authority of India

won the “India Pride Awards” 2015-16

for “Excellence in infrastructure development” in

the category of Public Sector Undertaking —

Central for which all leading PSUs of India

participated. As an organisation, it has been

working tirelessly towards India’s sustainable

growth and is renowned for providing state-of-the-

art infrastructure, passenger facilities and air

navigation services at all airports across

the nation. The award ceremony was held at The

Taj Mahal Hotel in the capital. The winners were

felicitated by M Venkaiah Naidu, Union Minister

for Urban Development, Housing and Urban

Poverty Alleviation and Parliamentary

Affairs, who was the Chief Guest for the evening,

Ravi Shankar Prasad, Union Minister for

Communications and Information Technology

and Radha Mohan Singh, Union Minister

for Agriculture.

triumph Beyond

Sudhir Raheja, Chairman, AAI (right) receiving the “India Pride Awards” from M Venkaiah Naidu, Union Minister for UrbanDevelopment, Housing and Urban Poverty Alleviation and Parliamentary Affairs in the presence of Radha Mohan Singh, UnionMinister for Agriculture


094_097_SUPP_AAI(4).qxd 2/13/1950 7:25 PM Page 94


ANOTHERfeather was added

in the cap of AAI

recently as it was awarded the prestigious

“Golden Peacock Award” 2016 for innovative

services. This honour comes in the second

consecutive year for Aerodrome Safeguarding

application system also known as NOCAS (No

Objection Certificate Application System)

Version 2.0. The key benefits of this system are

effective planning and saving the environment.

In India, ASAS saves 500 trees (4,500,000

sheets) per year. It has reduced staff requirement,

saves cost, enables faster dissemination of height

determination certificate and faster rollout of

projects, ensures transparency.

The award was presented to AAI at ‘Golden

Peacock Awards Ceremony’ held in Dubai by

His Highness Sheikh Nahyan Bin Mubarak Al

Nahyan, Cabinet Minister of Culture and

Knowledge Development, Government of UAE in

the presence of a distinguished gathering of

business leaders, academics, boardroom

professionals and policy makers. The Golden

Peacock Awards were instituted by the Institute

of Directors, India in 1991, and are regarded as

a benchmark of corporate excellence

worldwide. The Golden Peacock Awards

Secretariat receives over 1,000 entries per year

for various categories from over 25 countries

across the world.

Awards galore

S Raheja (centre) with the Golden Peacock Award for “Innovative Service” by the Institute of Directors in Dubai. Also seen inthe picture are Anuj Aggarwal, Member (HR), A K Dutta, Member (ANS) and other senior officers of AAI



THE AIRPORTS Authority of India

(AAI), Air Navigation

Service Provider (ANSP) and International Air

Transport Association (IATA) recently joined hands

for providing a comprehensive e-billing solution to

ANSPs for data gathering, e-invoicing and

collection of tariff from airlines.

An MoU was signed by Manfred Blondeel,

Director, Enhancement and Financing services,

IATA and Anil Gupta, General Manager, Business

Development, AAI in the presence of S Suresh,

Member Finance and Rajesh Bhandari, Executive

Director Finance, AAI during the strategic level

meeting of AAI and IATA on making a collaborative

effort. Speaking on the occasion, Suresh said, “AAI

and IATA have more than a decade-long

association of invoicing and collection, making it a

robust and unique system, as there’s no other

comprehensive e-billing system available for the

same at present.

Blondeel stated that considering AAI’s expertise

in data gathering and IATA’s in collection of

invoices through BSP and ICH, the collaboration

between IATA and AAI would be a milestone for the

global aviation fraternity which now has a tested

and effective comprehensive business solution.

Manfred Blondeel, Director IATA and Anil Gupta, GM (Business Development), AAI exchanging the MoU in presence of S Suresh(in centre). Also seen in the picture is Rajesh Bhandari, Executive Director (Finance), AAI (second from right)

Participants of workshop on Airport Information Management System (AIMS) with Member Finance, S Suresh



S Suresh, Member(Finance) andother senior officersof AAI andrepresentativesfrom IATA, Genevaparticipated in acycle rallyorganised to createenvironmentalawareness after theAAI-IATA meetingin Goa, as aconcluding activitywhich was abrainchild ofMember Finance

TheAAI also came up with a workshop on Airports Information

Management System (AIMS) in Goa with participants from all major

AAI airports attending the two-day event addressed by prominent guest faculty

and the project lead of AIMS. AIMS is a comprehensive e-billing solution

through which AAI is raising invoices to the tune of Rs 10,000 crore per annum,

functional at 96 airports across India.

The workshop was inaugurated by S Suresh (Member Finance) in the

presence of Rajesh Bhandari, Executive Director, Finance, P K Mishra, Executive

Director, Air Traffic Management and S V Sathish, Executive Director

Information Technology.

Speaking on the occasion, S Suresh, Member Finance, reiterated the

importance of e-billing, transparency, accuracy and timely collection. He

emphasised AAI’s commitment in ease of doing business by implementation of

comprehensive e-invoicing AIMS system.

As a concluding activity, a cycle rally was organised to create

environmental awareness aiming for a clean and green Goa. More than 40

participants from all over the country and visiting IATA delegations from IATA

Corporate Headquarters, Geneva, Switzerland led by Suresh, Blondeel and B C

H Negi, Airport Director, Goa airport, participated in the rally.

Speaking on the occasion Suresh pointed out the importance of

environmental issues and taking a cue from PM Modi’s Swacch Bharat Abhiyan.

Blondeel lauded the efforts and initiative taken by AAI in organising the rally for

educating and creating awareness about environment in the society.

“We’ll ensure that Goa airport will be seen as an example in making the

state clean and green,” said BCH Negi, Airport Director, Goa.


RECENTLYcannabis has

been much in

the news. People

across the nation have been debating whether it should be legalised. It was

always legal to begin with. In fact, it was more legal than alcohol. And then,

America came pushing and under all sorts of international duress, we wrote

it off. Now when they are readily embracing it, we are still struggling to come

to terms with our first love. What I fear now is that cannabis will come back

to India routed via America which is the most shameful passage for our

history to undertake.

BLI

THES

PIR

IT

MagandeepSingh

Sommelier

HOMEGROWN

HIGHBe it the Chang rice-ferment from the North East to the

potent saffron spiced liquors from Rajasthan to Kesar

Kasturi, we have as many ways to get high as we have

languages or cuisines

098_099_MAGANDEEP(2).qxd 2/13/1950 7:25 PM Page 98

A similar fate awaits our local brews

and liquors if we don’t sit up and realise

just what in ignorance we risk losing.

Mahua, as a distillate, has been made in

India since longer than recorded

civilisation has existed in the region. Other

flowers (jasmine,rose), fruits (mangoes,

berries), barks, roots, cereals, grains and

even animal parts have somehow found a

way to be made into alcohol. And not all of

it was vile. Sure it was unpolished, edgy

even and didn't have much shelf life but it

was made for the purpose of drinking.

Evidence of alcohol being a part of our

society are to be found in every historic

text— from the Vedas (who mostly

condemned alcohol even as they spoke of

the Lords imbibing it), the Sutras (which

were more kind in their outlook towards

alcohol and its drinkers) to even popular

ones like the Ramayana and the

Mahabharata. In other words drinking or

rather drunkenness are no invention of the

modern man but a time jaded ritual almost

embedded in our DNA.

The Brahmins used to drink till, at one

point, they decided to give it up and stick

to fruit juices. The Kshatriyas could drink

but only wine. Distillates were off limits

for them as also for the Vaishyas. The

reason seems to be that for warriors as also

the business community, losing the power

of reasoning was never good. And finally

the Shudras who were the only ones

allowed to drink the potent stuff.

Nevertheless, there was clearly a lot of

alcohol and a variety of it around in our

society at all times.

Kesar Kasturi used to be so potent

that just a few drops added to a tank

of water was enough to intoxicate an

entire wedding procession. Another

distillate from the neighbouring Marwar

was so stiff that even a spoon would float

in it. Then there is the Eastern culture of

drinking rice-based ferments. And how

can one forget toddy? I remember in the

golden era before Kerala went dry, I

alighted from my house boat to visit a

state-run toddy shop, where we men sat on

a bench banging a table to a beat and

singing a local song about well,

drunkenness. And this is but

the tip of the gin-soaked

iceberg. It’s not up to us to

ensure its longevity. So let’s

raise a glass in the name

of preservation.


098_099_MAGANDEEP(2).qxd 2/13/1950 7:25 PM Page 99

WHEN

you love

someone you

see nothing

wrong in them. You even justify their faults in

some way or other. They are always on your mind.

Ordinary things become extraordinary. When you

love someone, you want to see them happy and you

want them to have the best.

The understanding I’m speaking about is not

merely intellectual. Usually when we love

something, we want to possess it. You have known

only one way of loving — love it, possess it and

forget it. When you try to possess love, you rob it

of its beauty, and then that same love gives you

pain. Whoever you love, you try to dictate terms to

them. In a very subtle way you try to rule them.

And whatever you try to control turns ugly.

It all begins in childhood. When the second

baby arrives, the first baby wants all the attention.

“Why did you bring this baby home? Give it away.”

Many children say, “You belong to me and me

alone.” It’s a deep samskara, a deep impression, the

fear of losing our place in the heart of someone

we love.

GU

RU

SP

EAK

Sri Sri RaviShankar

Spiritual Guru

If something is beautiful, you cannot but love it.

Love and beauty go hand in hand.

When you love a creation, you see it as beautiful.

When you are tired of it, you find it ugly.

That’s why to appreciate beauty you must understand love

DUET

THE

UNENDINGUNENDING

100_101_GURUSPEAK(2).qxd 2/13/1950 7:25 PM Page 100

When it becomes a little difficult to attain

whatever you are attracted to, you start loving it. If

you simply get whatever you are attracted to —

just like that— you don’t develop love for it. A

longing must arise which leads to love. And love

brings the fear of loss. Yet, a love which has the

fear of loss, does not blossom. It leads you to ugly

sensations and feelings like jealousy. You try all

sorts of gimmicks to deny what is happening

within you. You never love something that is big

because you haven’t yet become enormous

yourself. And as long as you stay small, there is no

joy, happiness or peace. Joy is expansion, it’s about

becoming big in your heart. This can only happen

in a situation where you are very much in love but

cannot possess what you love.

You can love someone for their qualities and

not have a sense of intimacy. This type of love gives

rise to competition and jealousy. If love is based on

the qualities of a person, that love is not stable.

After some time the qualities change and the love

becomes shaky. However, if you love someone

because they belong to you, then that love remains

for a lifetime. Loving someone because they belong

to you, great or otherwise, is unconditional love

which is pure bliss.

Spiritual practices, knowledge of the self, ser-

vice and satsang (coming together in celebration)

help to create a sense of belonging. When love

springs from a sense of belonging, then the action

or qualities don’t overshadow love. Neither

qualities nor actions can be perfect all the time.

Only love and a feeling of kinship can be perfect.


100_101_GURUSPEAK(2).qxd 2/13/1950 7:25 PM Page 101

GENERALLYconsidered as a

women’s health

issue, varicose veins is a condition that not only affects

women but men as well. Statistics say 3 out of 10 people suffer

from varicose veins and it can be very uncomfortable. So what

are varicose veins after all? When veins push the de-

oxygenated blood to the heart, their internal valves open and

close really fast, not allowing blood to fall back. With age,

obesity, standing or sitting for a long time, pregnancy and

menopause or due to hereditary factors, these valves weaken

and can leak, making blood flow backwards and balloon up

the veins.

The various symptoms include tired, aching legs,

swollen ankles and feet, swelling and discomfort that can

make daily routine uncomfortable and painful. Doctors

usually recommend self-care measures or, in extreme cases,

surgical intervention.

Regular practice of yoga is invaluable as

this science works on body both externally

and internally. Yoga asanas, done regularly,

can improve the overall vitality, strength,

fitness, muscle tone and flexibility of the

body. Along with yogic breathing exercises

(pranayama) and the bandhas (neuro-

muscular locks), they detox the body and

improve blood circulation.

Inverted postures like Sarvangasan

(shoulder stand) as they reverse the body’s

blood flow and allow stagnant, pooled blood

to flow back to the heart. Swollen and

damaged veins start to look more normal.

To really get long-term relief from

varicose veins, it’s important to try

these postures in which the legs

are elevated or the body

inverted. Any of these will give

you some immediate relief.


FITN

ESS

Bharat Thakuris a yoga guru and founder ofArtistic Yoga

YOGA

FOR

VARICOSE

VEINS

Mostly seen as a cosmetic problem, varicose

veins, also called spider veins, are dark and

enlarged veins which can get really painful

if left untreated. Here’s how yoga can bring

relief to sufferers

102_103_BHARAT THAKUR(2).qxd 2/13/1950 7:25 PM Page 102

VIPREETKARNI ASANA

o Lie flat on your back, arms by your side

and feet together.

o Inhaling, slowly raise both your legs,

keep them straight and together.

o Raise your back off the floor and lower

your legs towards your head.

o Support the hips with both your hands.

o Hold for a minute or as long as

comfortable.

o Slowly lower the hips, bringing arms by

your side and lower the legs.

BENEFITS:

o Redirects the flow of blood

upwards, relieving

varicose vein symptoms.

o Improves blood

circulation.


UTTHANPADASANA

o Lie on your back with legs together, arms by your side, palms on floor.

o Inhale as you raise the right leg to 90 degrees or as high as comfortable.

o Hold for 10-30 seconds, holding the breath.

o Exhale as you slowly bring the leg down. Repeat with left leg.

o Repeat, lifting both legs together.

BENEFITS:

o Facilitates blood circulation.

o Strengthens ab muscles, digestive system and lower back.

SARVANGASANA

o Lie flat on your back, arms by your side and feet together.

o Inhaling, slowly raise both your legs to 90 degrees, keeping them straight.

o Support your back with both hands, roll and raise your legs, hips and back

to a vertical position.

o Gently push the chest forward so it presses against the chin.

o Relax, breathe normally and hold for 30 seconds to a minute.

o Slowly lower the hips, place arms by your side and lower the legs.

BENEFITS:

o Redirects the flow of blood upwards, relieving varicose vein

symptoms.

o Strengthens the back and shoulders.

o Improves blood circulation.

Setp

(2)

Setp

(1)

102_103_BHARAT THAKUR(2).qxd 2/13/1950 7:25 PM Page 103


NU

MB

ERG

AM

E

Sanjay Jumaani

Numerologist

COUNT

YOUR

FATE

NUMBER 1

(Ruled by Sun, people born on

the 1st, 10th, 19th and 28th)

A confused mind may continue

to waver, making you feel

indecisive. You can multi-task

though if you feel you are

achieving success. Give enough

time to your projects; you will

taste success, sooner or later. A

slow balancing is in the offing

after which it’s over to your own

decisions and actions.

NUMBER 2

(Ruled by Moon, people born on

the 2nd, 11th, 20th and 29th)

It is likely that some unforeseen

expense may mount up but if it

is worthwhile, there is nothing

much to fear. Good things in life

do cost a little more so at times

being “penny wise” does not

always help. Keep a tab on your

health, especially blood

pressure. Try alternate therapies

such as yoga or meditation.

NUMBER 3

(Ruled by Jupiter, people born

on the 3rd, 12th, 21st and 30th)

We often fool ourselves that we

work for our family but if we

can’t give them time, then

there is simply no use of

money. You may not be after it

for the love of it but you might

be just under some obligation

to others, which at times

makes you feel insecure about

your status.

NUMBER 4

(Ruled by Uranus, people born

on the 4th, 13th, 22nd and 31st)

A creative mind and an

adventurous attitude put

together can make advanced

inventions possible. Your

revolutionary thinking is of good

use if you are ready to neglect

the detractors who may not

understand your conceptual

thinking. But don’t overthink too

much as you are after all skillful.

NUMBER 5

(Ruled by Mercury, people born

on the 5th, 14th and 23rd)

Those in long-term relationships

could work out mutually and

create better understanding.

Socially too, you might be

keeping busy on tenterhooks.

Work satisfaction could come

only if you have convinced

yourself that you have put in

your best. So think twice before

skipping decision to another.

NUMBER 6

(Ruled by Venus, people born on

the 6th, 15th and 24th)

Those on the lookout for work

may get a pleasant surprise,

romantic relationships could

take a little backseat at the

moment which could be a

blessing. If work is worship,

then there’s always time for

love. Keep your mind open

and be ready to welcome

change.

NUMBER 7

(Ruled by Neptune, people born

on the 7th, 16th and 25th)

You may need to keep a tab on

your diet. Physical fitness is the

need of the hour. Perhaps it’s the

key answer to any unusual

tiredness you would be facing.

Your zest for success is justified

and will be complete only if you

sustain your health levels. If you

intuitively mistrust someone,

keep away from that person.

NUMBER 8

(Ruled by Saturn, people born

on the 8th, 17th and 26th)

Those who are single may meet

someone interesting and should

make a move which will be

fruitful. Don’t just rush into the

scheme of things though. Your

positive karma may reward you

eventually and you must preach

and illustrate your example to

others, inspiring them to tread

on the path of righteousness.

NUMBER 9

(Ruled by Mars, people born on

the 9th, 18th and 27th)

Short trips or visits could

make work a pleasure, you

generally love adventures

anyway. Those who are self-

employed may expect an

interesting client. Finances are

settling down but avoid get-rich-

quick tricks. Otherwise being

impulsive could prove

hazardous for you.

104_NUMEROLOGY(1).qxd 2/13/1950 7:25 PM Page 104

AT L E I S U R E

THEfestival brings

together the beauty of

flowers and some decent

knowledge about plantations.

Many species of orchids, gladioli,

cacti, roses, creepers, climbers

are put on display at Governor’s

residence in Gangtok. For the

ones who love adventure, there is

river rafting. Another interesting

feature of the Flower festival in

Sikkim is the Yak Safari. Apart

from this, lectures and seminars

about indigenous plants are

conducted. To be held from

May 1 to 31.

BEINGan important

landmark of the

Indian Buddhist Circuit, Sarnath

hosts an elaborate fair and is

home to a public procession of

Buddhist relics. A huge number of

Buddhists is seen coming to

Sarnath for the occasion. Almost

every other Buddhist capital

celebrates Buddh Poornima with

much fervour. On May 22.

DURINGthe first

half of

May, people enjoy the grand

wedding of Lord Shiva and

Meenakshi in Madurai’s

Meenakshi Temple during the

Chithirai festival. Legend goes

that even Lord Vishnu himself

came on a golden horse to attend

this. The 3,500-year-old temple is

the heart of spiritual fervour

during this period. Chariot

processions, devotional songs

and numerous pujas continue

throughout the fortnight. From

May 1 to14.

Name:

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favouring CMYK Printech Ltd. drawn on bank:

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CMYK Printech Ltd. 2nd Floor, Patriot House, 3, Bahadur Shah Zafar Marg,

New Delhi-110002 Phone: 011-23718296/40754136, 40754100 (Ext: 282) Fax: 23755275

E-mail: [email protected]

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105_AT_LEISURE(1).qxd 2/13/1950 7:25 PM Page 105


he other day I came across a report that river

cruising has reached a saturation point in global

tourism. Some 23 new boats were launched in

2015, with more debuting the year before. “Not

only is there limited space on the great rivers of

the world (the Danube, the Rhine, the Seine, the

Mekong, the Yangtze), but it may be that, in 2016,

there will be more staterooms than would-be

passengers...prices could continue to stay flat or

bottom out,” said the Frommer’s study. I say good

time to grab a summer deal.

India sadly is far from that saturation. In fact, a

country blessed by natural rivers and waterways

has done precious little to make river cruising

popular, except in isolated pockets. That, too, as a

privately-driven rather than an institutionalised,

sectoral effort. Considering the effort we put into

developing artificial water-themed parks in our

cities, and swimming pools becoming aqua

wrestling matches due to overcrowding, one

wonders why our riverfronts and lakes cannot be

developed for a more expansive and serene

vacation experience.

River cruises have been fairly well-developed in

the well-publicised tourist hubs of Kerala, Goa and

Lakshadweep. While the boats on the Mandovi

river cater to every budget and experience, Kerala

tourism has developed plush houseboats for an

exclusive soak of the backwaters at a languid pace.

Lakshadweep, with its luxury boats, has set the

benchmark for island tourism. River cruises are a

luxury in time and space. While the boats come

with their modern conveniences, they allow you

to be a seeking soul, dropping anchor every day

at an unknown port and gathering unique

experiences of the locals on the bank. You touch

upon the vast swathes of the real India that are

outside tourist circuits.

Rivers are also a great lesson in history as we

pass ancient signposts, relics and old bridges to

understand how their courses have impacted our

civilisational flow. The Ganga river cruise, for

example, takes you past remnants of ancient,

native kingdoms, Mughal ruins of palaces and

forts, colonial era granaries, pavilions and

structures, Buddhist monasteries in Vikramshila,

sixth century rock carvings in Bateshwar and silk

markets in Bhagalpur. It is all threaded together in

a seamless experience, telling us where we come

from and where we are headed. Rivers are also a

great way to encounter the wild in an untamed

surrounding, just as they are meant to be, be it the

Gangetic dolphin, bobbing up and down in the

afternoon sun, or the giant monitors and

swimming tigers in the creeks of the Sundarbans

delta. The Brahmaputra cruise promises to open

up the deep confluence of ethnology and custom,

where you might chance upon the native arts of

mask-making and saree-weaving and have some

smoked chicken stuffed in bamboo stalks. The

Godavari cruise shows you that river beaches are

silky and pearl-white, tempting you to camp out at

Konaseema while at Chilika, you could go out with

the fishermen at sunrise and bring back a

gleaming haul.

Cradled by the boat and the rhythm of the

river, sometimes furious and aggressive and

sometimes tepid and steady, you seem to make a

mystical connection with the universe. This whole

range of journeys is just limited to boutique

operators. On a developed scale, there’s much

more of “the India unpeeled” experience that

awaits us.

T

S I G N O F FBy RINKU GHOSH

MYSTIC RIVER

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