Democracy is a fragile idea this week. Even as we write, an increasing uncertainty envelops the world, and it only feels more chaotic by the hour. “Finding the right words to articulate the feelings, the anger and even disappointment can be hard at such moments. That’s why works like these are all the more relevant,” shares Parna Pethe. The director is preparing for the latest staging of her directorial debut, Something Like Truth, at the NCPA this weekend. The journey of the play began early in 2024 when Pethe was looking to transition from actor to director. “I had worked across films and theatre, predominantly in Marathi, and wanted to explore direction. I was actually reading Gurmehar Kaur’s Small Acts of Freedom. But the permissions for adaptation proved quite complex,” she admits. A moment from the performance The solution lay closer home, in Shanta Gokhale’s work, Three Monologues on Truth and Justice. The monologue form of the work, and its context drew Pethe’s attention. “Usually, plays are either character-driven, scene driven or narrative driven. This was different,” the debutant director elaborates. Gokhale’s work revolves around three monologues — one from the famed Dreyfus Affair in 19th Century France, another set among the 2002 riots in India, and the third from a civil war-torn Sri Lanka. To stage the monologues in a dramatic form, Pethe had to adapt and restructure its form. A challenge, especially when handling a work of a senior playwright like Gokhale. “She [Gokhale] was very sweet to me though. I met her several times to discuss the language, and also to update the text to imply contemporary elements,” she shares. (Left) Ashwini Giri; Sharvari Deshpande perform Gokhale’s text on the stage. Pics Courtesy/Parna Pethe The director approached this using the tools of music, movement and language. The choice of a mixed language of Hindi and English, despite having a cast of prominent Marathi actors (Kalyanee Mulay, Ashwini Giri, Sharvari Deshpande, Dusha and Aabha Soumitra) was purposeful. The decision, Pethe adds, was guided by the ambition of taking the play on tour across the country. Maitreyee Joshi and Aabha Soumitra played a role in guiding the movement and music for the performances. Pethe remarks, “Everything we explored in the text, was done through the context of movement and music. They were second only to the text, and allowed us to find a new form for the play.” In the absence of stage directions, or context of location in Gokhale’s text, the choreographed movement and rhythms raise the tempo of the drama. Parna Pethe Then, there are the women. Played by Mulay, Giri, Deshpande and Dusha, telling the stories of four women who are part of the context. “The first is a cleaning woman in the legal office where the Dreyfus affair is being debated. The second monologue explores the perspective of Alfred Dreyfus’ wife. The third one belongs to a survivor of the 2002 riots. The fourth story comes from a journalist in war-torn Sri Lanka, who speaks from an article by the late Lasantha Wickrematunge, who wrote and predicted his own death in the paper he published,” explains Pethe. These perspectives also cover the four pillars of democracy; executive, judiciary, administration and media. “But that is our own interpretation,” the 35-year-old clarifies. Shanta Gokhale. File Pic Having already made a mark in Pune and Mumbai, the director hopes to set out on a cross-country tour with the production in the second half of the year. “We hope to take it beyond the major metros to venues in Kolhapur, Sangli and Satara as well,” Pethe concludes. ON June 21; 7 pm AT Experimental Theatre, NCPA, Nariman Point. LOG ON TO in.bookmyshow.com; ncpamumbai.comENTRY Rs 400 onwards
18 June,2025 09:32 AM IST | Mumbai | Shriram IyengarBy now, we all know the importance of good nutrition in delaying ageing symptoms and in maintaining peak physical shape. But what if it was also possible to protect your brain against cognitive decline simply by being more selective about your food? That’s what the MIND diet proposes — a snappier abbreviation for the Mediterranean-DASH (Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension) Intervention for Neurodegenerative Delay, this diet is a research-backed eating pattern that’s designed to slow cognitive ageing. And, as per a 2023 study published in the New England Journal of Medicine, this diet can significantly reduce the risk of cognitive decline. Millet-based bread and avocados is a healthy breakfast Eating smart The MIND diet brings together the best of the Mediterranean and DASH diets. Together, they create a powerful anti-inflammatory duo that doesn’t just fuel the body; it actively supports brain health, explains Karishmma Chawla, a functional medicine nutritionist and lifestyle educator. She adds, “The MIND diet cherry-picks the nutritional stars from each diet — from the Mediterranean side, it incorporates fruits, legumes, beans, nuts, olive oil, fatty fish, and lean proteins like turkey. From DASH, it takes lean poultry, beans, nuts and seeds, fruits and veggies, and low-fat or fat-free dairy. What stands out is the diet’s alignment with gut health principles. In that, these foods aren’t just brain-friendly but they’re gut-loving too. And, as we know in functional medicine, a healthy gut equals a happier brain.” Following an anti-inflammatory plan like the MIND diet, therefore, helps reduce systemic inflammation, including in the brain. This supports cognitive clarity, mood balance, and long-term neurological health. From a functional medicine lens, it’s a well-rounded approach that nurtures the gut-brain axis while supporting metabolic resilience, Chawla elaborates. Karishmma Chawla Brain first The MIND diet is suitable for people experiencing issues such as brain fog, brain blurriness, focus issues, poor concentration, depression and anxiety, says Chawla. “When your gut health is altered, producing an internal environment called dysbiosis, it gives rise to a leaky gut and hampers the gut-brain axis. The signals that are sent to your heart and brain via the vagus nerve are thus altered, and compromised. Measures such as acupuncture can stimulate the vagus nerve, helping your body shift from ‘fight or flight’ to ‘rest and digest’, while cold plunges help tone the vagus nerve through controlled stress exposure, improving your body’s resilience and regulation,” she clarifies. Give it a try? For those keen to get started, Chawla shares the following meal plan: >> Pre-breakfast: Start your day with a fresh smoothie: it’s the easiest way to sneak in your greens before your brain fully wakes up. A handful of spinach, some antioxidant-rich berries, and don’t forget a scoop of clean hydrolysed vegan or whey hydrolysed isolate that aligns with your gut. >> Breakfast: Millet-based bread with smashed avocado and a soft-boiled egg on top. Or go the classic route, with a warm brown rice veggie chilla and a spoonful of homemade green chutney. >> Lunch: It’s all about balance and colour. A hot jowar roti or chilla, two types of vegetables, some dal or legumes for steady energy, and a serving of fatty fish (if you prefer). >> Dinner: Brown rice pulao or biryani, with a palm-sized portion of grilled or tandoori chicken. Pair this with a mixed veggie soup or sautéed greens. Strengthen the gut-brain axis Chawla notes that when you start healing or preventing a leaky gut, you also safeguard your leaky brain which helps boost your cognitive function. She lays down the basic building blocks of a thriving microbiome, dubbed as the gut-loving trio: Prebiotics, probiotics and polyphenols. 1) Prebiotics feed your good gut bugs. They include garlic, onions, asparagus (toss it in salads), and dandelion tea—simple, powerful, everyday foods. 2) Probiotics bring the live cultures. Add yogurt (below), kefir, kombucha (your fizzy party upgrade), sauerkraut, or go for quality supplements with Lactobacillus, Bifidobacterium and Saccharomyces Boulardi, which become your gut’s frontline warriors. 3) Polyphenols are colourful and mood-lifting. Load up on blueberries, cherries, flaxseeds, pomegranates, turmeric, and a dash of resveratrol. The brighter your plate, the better your gut and your brain health. Don’t forget to include sufficient sources of protein in your diet. Proteins function as the raw material for producing hormones and are very essential for brain health.
18 June,2025 09:30 AM IST | Mumbai | Anindita PaulJust when we were beginning to wrap our heads around Gen Z terms like delulu and solulu, along came another three-syllable curveball. Labubu, Hong Kong-based artist Kasing Lung’s mischievous dangling plush toys, have quickly become everyone’s viral obsession. If the hype eludes you, you’re not alone. Indian cricket team ODI captain Rohit Sharma recently expressed his confusion around his daughter Samaira’s obsession with the dolls. Samaira isn’t alone. The Labubu fan club has roped in celebrities like Kim Kardashian, Rihanna and more recently, Ananya Panday. A dated photograph of Ramdas Padhye and Aparna Padhye (standing) with different versions of Tatya Vinchu. PICS COURTESY/SATYAJIT PADHYE Riding the wave, albeit inadvertently, are the Padhyes whose social media notifications have been pinging incessantly this month. “I was surprised to see how many people remembered Tatya Vinchu amid the virality. When I created Tatya in 1993, I honestly didn’t have high hopes that people would like him,” recalls veteran ventriloquist Ramdas Padhye. “A fan wrote to us saying it was time Tatya asserted his dominance,” laughs son Satyajit. Answer, they did. “A hundred dolls will come and go, but don’t forget, I was always the OG,” the doll reminds us in a new video. Mahesh Kothare oversees the climax scene of Zapatlela (1993) that was shot on a 90-degree rotated set The cute-yet-eerie vibe that Labubus have capitalised on isn’t groundbreaking, we learn. “When director Mahesh Kothare approached me with the script for his movie Zapatlela (1993), his character brief was simple: The doll had to be adorable and relatable until things went south and he turned into a possessed doll gone rogue. Kothare originally suggested we import a doll from the USA for the task, but I had other plans,” Ramdas recalls. A month later, the Padhyes would visit Kothare’s residence on the occasion of Ganeshotsav, bearing the blueprint for a new beginning — Tatya Vinchu. Much of the doll’s lasting legacy amidst fleeting trends is courtesy the labour of love behind it, believes Ramdas’s wife and fellow-ventriloquist on the film, Aparna Padhye. “We had no green screens back in the day to help edit ourselves out in post-production. Every time you see Tatya on the screen, we’re somewhere around, stretching our hands out in camouflage colours,” she reminisces. Ramdas, a mechanical engineering graduate from Matunga’s Veermata Jijabai Technological Institute (VJTI), believes his degree came in handy in assembling nine variations of Tatya, each suited for an emotion. “Sadly, I don’t see that commitment in today’s ventriloquists,” he sighs. A Labubu doll Some time ago, we had heard of Christopher Nolan’s famous rotating set from Inception (2010) that helped him create an illusion of gravity. Director Kothare wouldn’t have been amused. Satyajit, who frequented the set as a 10-year-old, reveals how the defining rooftop climax was shot in a set that was laid on its side, and later rotated 90 degrees to create an illusion. “We shot the sequence lying prone on the floor. Laksha [the late actor Laxmikant Berde who played the protagonist] once quipped that we were the only ones on the set getting paid to lie down,” Aparna laughs. Rohit Sharma’s Instagram post about his daughter’s Labubu collection. Pic Courtesy/@ROHIT SHARMA45 ON INSTAGRAM As Satyajit continues to pull all strings to keep the legacy alive, the family wishes puppets made a comeback in mainstream media. “Puppets have immense potential in education, social messaging and public outreach. We can only hope more people realise this potential,” Aparna concludes. Before we signed off, we couldn’t possibly forget to ask the veterans what they make of Labubu; does it stand a chance against Tatya? “No! Not at all. It reminded us of the limbu-mirchi contraption you see hanging from cabs and autos in Mumbai,” they sign off. Log on to: Satyajit Padhye on YouTube All you need is Labubu PIC COURTESY/@twinklerkhanna Twinkle Khanna calls Labubus her “new platonic love”, even quipping that people insure their dolls Fashion icon Kim Kardashian garnered mixed reactions for sharing her collection of Labubus online PIC COURTESY/@PUDDINGNSOUSE Rihanna was spotted flaunting a pink Labubu dangling from her handbag PIC COURTESY/@holdbyhand Pop star Dua Lipa is said to be one of the earliest adopters of the trend, sporting Labubu dolls since 2024 Where to buy? The Labubu hype capitalises on unusually high demand, a thriving resale market and the element of surprise. Each doll comes in a ‘blind box’, giving the buyer no indication of the doll inside. Head to these import and resale platforms to get your own Labubu >> hypefly.co.in>> etsy.com>> kicksmachine.com
18 June,2025 09:06 AM IST | Mumbai | Devashish KambleStorytelling and music are a match made in heaven. Fort-based Malido Café, in association with Zyto, is organising There and Back Again, an evening where the audience will get to listen to Utsavi Jha as she narrates stories through songs. The singer will set the vibe of the evening with her ballads, Saanjh and Khata, and electro-pop track, Piya. Musicians perform at a previous edition of the series. Pics courtesy/Malido Cafe Neville Bose, the café’s founder, says, “Malido Live hosts a monthly live music series called There and Back Again, showcasing up-and-coming singer-songwriters from the indie music scene. It focuses on giving artistes the space to share their stories and music.” Speaking about the series, he shares, “The event is an intimate blend of storytelling and music, creating a space where artistes and guests can connect at a deeper level.” Jha, an actor and playback singer of the award-winning film, Gulmohar (2023), believes that the combination of songs and stories goes hand in hand. She shares, “All my songs stem from stories, anecdotes, and experiences. I see music as sonic storytelling. Each note, instrument choice, melodic change, and word can reinstate the same story or bring a different perspective. To combine and play with prose, vocal, and sonic elements is cathartic and a fun process.” Audience members enjoy a musical performance (right) An entry ticket of There and Back Again show Jha adds an emotional touch to her songs and storytelling. She explains, “I approach songwriting as a channel through which I express feelings, find closure, or process my thoughts. It starts with a seed of a thought articulated with words that becomes a music production that translates the sonic thought to finally be served to listeners with creative visuals, which I like to ideate and execute.”Also Read: Suffering from 'collective grief'? Health experts tell you how to copeHer songs Khata and Saanjh are deeply rooted in personal stories and experiences. She shares, “Saanjh was the first Hindi song I wrote back in 2020. Writing it, piecing it lyric by lyric, was an inspiring process that opened up a whole new world to me. I call Saanjh the gift that keeps giving because of the way it has touched lives and the amount of love it has brought my way. It’s a very special song for me, and to see it get all the love makes me grateful. Khata, at the other end, is about heartbreak. It’s the title track from my debut EP Khata, themed around the stages of heartbreak. It is about self-doubt and the shock I felt when someone I loved walked out of my life unannounced.” ON June 19; 7 pm to 10 pmAT Malido Café and Apero, Burjorji, Bharucha Marg, Kala Ghoda, Fort.LOG ON TO allevents.inENTRY Rs 500
17 June,2025 09:34 AM IST | Mumbai | Minal SanchetiDance can be the simplest and yet, most effective form of communication in human life. In the heart of West Bengal’s Purulia district, generations of Chhau dancers know this to be true. “I have witnessed three generations of dancers, from the same family,” shares Indranil Mukherjee, founder member of the photography collective, Vibgyor. In 2018, Mukherjee witnessed the prowess of these performers at an event in Mumbai, and it sparked a fascination with the art form. This weekend, he will host 10 dancers from Purulia for a rare performance in Navi Mumbai to shine a light on this heritage. The last stand “I grew up in Kolkata, where Chhau would often be part of Durga Puja pandals come September. They were dynamic, action-based with movements that were magical to a child’s eye,” shares Mukherjee, who moved to the city in 2015. By then, he had already established the photography collective, Vibgyor. The 2018 performance of Chhau only affirmed the collective’s decision to plan a trip to Bengal. A troupe of musicians rehearse before a show In 2020, they visited the villages of Purulia, documenting and photographing the culture of Chhau. This became part of their latest book, Beats on the Brink: Rhythms of Purulia that was released in April this year. “However, when we returned earlier this year, we witnessed a slow erosion of the culture. Many performers had moved on to different professions. It is understandable. They need money to survive. But two generations hence, the masks will become relics and memories in their family cupboards,” Mukherjee observes. A generational folk dance The dance form of Chhau is a familiar form for residents of Bengal. Originating from Purulia, Seraikella (Jharkhand) and Mayurbhanj (Odisha), it uses dramatic movements and vivid expressions to tell stories. “The troupe consists of only men. This is because the masks and the costumes they put on are very heavy, and the movements incorporate leaps and martial forms. It requires stamina, training and coordination,” the 40-year-old explains. Traditionally, troupes would travel from village to village performing episodes from Hindu epics like the Mahabharata and the Ramayana. “There are no songs or speech in the performances,” he adds. A performer strikes a pose during a show in Purulia The masks are a signature of Purulia’s Chhau tradition. Made of paper pulp and metallic embellishments, they define each character. The masks also impede vision. This makes performances in closed spaces challenging — one of the reasons why the 10 dancers will spend a day in, and at the stage, in Navi Mumbai. “They wanted to familiarise themselves with the stage, so they could move instinctively,” shares Mukherjee. Also Read: Attend this unique clowning workshop in Mumbai to learn life skills Chhau performers are often accompanied by instruments like the ron-pa, a percussion instrument made of iron rods. “These are tall iron rods, upon which the performer stands and plays it. It is quite a visual spectacle,” the photographer informs us. Villagers watch a Chhau performance Break with tradition The nature of the performance is such that it takes an entire village to set one up. So, when one or two members break up, or move away, it triggers the possibility of a social system breaking up. “Traditionally, they would perform in the open grounds of villages during Durga Puja. But pandals today prefer other art forms,” Mukherjee notes. A troupe poses in full costume before a show With the fundraising performance in Mumbai, Mukherjee hopes the performers get a second chance. “Chhau has been marked as an Intangible Cultural Heritage by UNESCO, and yet, there is a risk of its practitioners fading away. As people who love the art and admire it, it becomes our responsibility to find a way,” he concludes. A musician on the ron-pa ON June 21; 6.30 pm (Seating begins at 6 pm)AT Samannay, Juhu Village, Sector 11, Vashi.CALL 9920773284 (for details)LOG ON TO @igvibgyor on InstagramEntry Rs 150 onwards (donor passes)
17 June,2025 09:34 AM IST | Mumbai | Shriram IyengarMID-DAY: How did you decide to put together this water-themed collection of art?Karishma Swali: Water Memories didn’t begin with a single moment. It took shape gradually through conversations, observations, and a deepening sense of responsibility. At Moonray, environmental responsibility is part of how we think, create, and live. This project grew from that ethos. It felt like the right moment to bring art and awareness into the same space and create something that could hold reflection, urgency, and beauty in equal measure. Water holds memories of stories, rituals, and ecologies that have shaped how we live and relate to the world around us. It was important to respond to that presence, not only as an artist, but as part of a larger, interconnected whole. This book is our way of honouring that connection — a tribute, a reflection, and a call to care for what still endures. Krishna, 2024, Karishma Swali and the Moonray Collective, organic jute and cotton thread on textile, 60 x 84 inches. Pics Courtesy/The Moonray Collective MD: Who was your inspiration when you started to assemble the visual artists for this project?KS: Its making was a collective act shaped by many hands and conversations. We worked closely with Studio Anugraha, a Mumbai-based design studio, to craft a visual and conceptual rhythm for this book. Together, we shaped a space that could hold the work of 12 incredible artists. Some of the artists featured in the book are long-time collaborators; others have been friends and sources of inspiration for years. Manu Parekh’s work, for instance, is part of our private collection. Vortex, 2022, Reena Saini Kallat, Electric wires and metal, 108 x 60 inches, installation view, Compton Verney, UK. Pic courtesy/Jamie Wood Over time, our creative dialogue has grown, most recently through our collaboration for the Venice Biennale in 2024. Rithika Merchant and I worked closely on the scenography for the Dior show in 2025, and Barthélémy Toguo, an artist from Cameroon, was part of Chanakya Foundation’s Artist Residency in 2023. Each artist featured in Water Memories brought a distinct approach to the table, but what moved me most was how naturally their perspectives aligned — there was a sensitivity and shared sense of purpose. When we reached out, the responses were open and willing. It felt like a powerful gathering of voices, where the river wasn’t just a theme, but a witness and collaborator.Also Read: Ditching plastic for good? Indian restaurants leading the charge against plastic MD: What do you believe is the aim of this book?KS: The aim is twofold: it’s a cultural offering and a call to action. The project emerged from Moonray’s ongoing commitment to environmental stewardship, with all proceeds directed toward the restoration of traditional water systems and the advancement of regenerative, community-rooted practices. To deepen this intention, we’ve also created a series of interdisciplinary works that reflect on the river’s dual nature — both constant and ever-changing. These pieces carry with them memory, myth, and meaning, offering a space to reflect on how water has shaped our histories, landscapes, and lives. Karishma Swali, co-founder and creative director, Moonray As part of a larger effort, Moonray has partnered with Paani Foundation to support grassroots water conservation across drought-affected regions in Maharashtra. Through this initiative, over 500 farmers per taluka will receive in-depth training, access to digital farming tools, and essential infrastructure to help build long-term water security. MD: Is there a water body in India that has impacted your life in a major way?KS: It’s hard to choose just one, because I believe all rivers leave a deep imprint on our lives. Beyond their role in irrigation, agriculture, or power, they hold a quieter significance. They sustain us in ways that are often harder to name — emotional, spiritual, and even symbolic. Available at moonray.in Water for all At Paani Foundation, we’re proud to work with thousands of women farmers in Maharashtra on their path to financial independence. Our collaboration with Chanakya School of Craft is especially meaningful as it also uplifts women through crafts. This book celebrates two of our greatest strengths as a society — water, and the power of women working to build stronger communities across India. We are deeply thankful to the school for their contribution towards the Paani Foundation and improving rural livelihoods in Maharashtra. - Kiran Rao, founder, Paani Foundation
17 June,2025 09:27 AM IST | Mumbai | Fiona FernandezThis month, the podcast universe has given us a chat with a billionaire on the run, a fresh Bollywood fall-out, and a crash course in how not to die young. For a breather, we turned to a new Hindi podcast series called Ecofiles by the Wildlife Conservation Trust (WCT). Environmentalist Manda Chakole recalls how she would step into the thick forest adjoining the Tadoba Andhari Tiger Reserve to collect firewood as a child. “Sometimes, we would hear a tiger maul its prey,” she recalls in the podcast. Manda Chakole (left) demonstrates a Bumbb heater during an interaction. PICS COURTESY/WCT ON YOUTUBE Hosted by conservation communicator and wildlife historian Raza Kazmi, the episode is the first of many more to come that deep-dive into conservation stories from India’s hinterlands. It chronicles Chakole’s inspiring journey beginning from a shopkeeper in Chandrapur’s Sindewahi taluka. “I always dreamed of becoming a police officer or joining the Armed Forces. When that didn’t pan out, I still felt the need to serve my people in some way,” she says. At the heart of the conversation is WCT’s Bumbb project, a sustainable water heater that reduces costs by 75 per cent, and minimises human-wildlife conflicts. Having joined the organisation in 2021, Chakole now leads outreach programmes for the project in her hometown. She reveals how she is not remembered by name as much as she is by the work. She’s the ‘Bumbb-wali’ to most villagers. “I know how exhausting it is to carry firewood from the forest. I’m glad we could lift that burden off the women’s shoulders,” she remarks in conversation with the host. Raza Kazmi Kazmi’s calm and articulate narration in Hindi lends the podcast a steady, thoughtful rhythm. The podcast briefly dives into the environmentalist’s challenges as a woman in a male-dominated field. We learn that things aren’t as primitive in the hinterland as we had imagined. A few sarpanches, she admits, underestimate her capabilities, especially in fieldwork. But that only fuels her determination to prove herself. Chakole’s personal anecdotes make for an engaging listen for anyone wondering what conservation looks like beyond the city limits. Although her vision might hit close to home. She reveals that her next project will focus on the rise of human-wildlife conflicts in Sindewahi, much like parts of Mumbai adjoining the Aarey Forest. When asked to share a message for young environmentalists to conclude the podcast, the guest promptly advises: begin with your own surroundings before thinking bigger. Log on to: Ecofiles on Spotify and YouTube
16 June,2025 09:34 AM IST | Mumbai | Devashish KambleTo succeed in life, it is essential to learn how to cope with failures. As author JK Rowling says, “Failure is inevitable in life,” it is important to learn how to deal with rejections and setbacks. Clowning with The Negative, a workshop by Neeltarni Pratap, will help you creatively face your challenges through clowning. Clowning teaches you the art of laughing at yourself and your vulnerabilities. The Negative is a creative space that spreads happiness through teaching improv, clowning, and comedic sketches. Participants express what they think ballet is, in a previous session Pratap, the co-founder of the organisation, and an instructor for improv, clowning, and comedic sketches, explains why clowning, “The skill is all about tapping into your funny, dropping the awkward, and being yourself. It’s a space where ‘learn to fail’ is the spirit — where you enjoy the flops, move freely, laugh loudly, and reconnect with the fearless, curious child in you because that’s where the magic is.” The workshop helps you to be yourself in every situation in life. She says, “You don’t need to emote over and above your emotions. We need to learn to be in the moment, take what we get, and react truthfully.” Clowning helps discover physical freedom and vulnerability. Pratap will use exercises that will require a lot of physical movement. She explains, “Clowning exercises come with very few instructions and restrictions. You are learning new ways of moving, loaded with different emotions and objectives, which take you to places you might have never been before. You’re encouraged to use your full body to express, to explore, to play — and that exploration is where freedom lives.” She adds, “Sure, you might get to do this exploration through life, but that could mean 70 years. With clowning exercises, you can get there in a fraction of that time.” Participants create a life-size human vaccum cleaner The art of clowning is not just a skill to pursue on stage. You can incorporate what you learn even off stage, “The art gently peels away the layers we perform with — on stage and off it. It reminds you that you don’t need to act, you just need to be. Not polished, not perfect. It’s about listening to what’s alive within you at the moment — your breath, your clumsiness, your delight, your confusion — and letting that be the story.” Neeltarni Pratap When asked about who can sign up for the workshop, Pratap exclaimed, “Anyone!” She added, “You don’t need to be an actor, performer, or funny person. You don’t need experience. You need a willingness to show up, to try, to flop, to laugh, and to discover something new about yourself. Webelieve everyone should take clowning workshops.” ON June 21 and 22; 11 am to 1 pmAT Veda Black Box by Veda Factory, 120, near Physioflex Gym, behind Ganpati Mandir, Aaram Nagar part 2, Versova, Andheri West.LOG ON TO allevents.inCOST Rs 2999
16 June,2025 09:26 AM IST | Mumbai | Minal SanchetiAbhilasha Daga didn’t expect the news of the Air India flight from Ahmedabad to London crashing to affect her as deeply as it did. “I was gutted. I love travelling, and would almost always fly, or at least insist on Air India. The loss felt deeply personal, even though I didn’t actually know anyone on the flight,” the 36-year-old communications professional shares. As videos, imagery and other updates about the fateful flight and its occupants began to overwhelm social media, Daga’s grief transformed into anxiety and a nameless fear of the unknown. “I kept telling myself how can this even happen? What went wrong? What about the families of those who perished? So many lives and so many dreams were wiped away,” she says. But Daga isn’t alone in internalising the loss. On a personal note “Many people are experiencing a collective sense of grief because such events resonate deeply with our shared humanity. As personal stories and pictures of victims are being widely shared on social media platforms, people connect and relate to the pain of those affected. As these narratives circulate, they amplify the collective grief, as people feel a shared sense of loss and compassion for the lives impacted by the tragedy,” explains clinical psychologist Janhvi Dargalkar. She adds that national calamities trigger feelings of vulnerability and empathy, even among those who are not directly affected. Allow yourself and others to express emotions. Acknowledging your feelings is the first step to healing them. Representation pics/Istock Psychologist Arti Shroff further elaborates, “For many, news about such tragedies is relayed in the form of social media updates, which have been focusing extensively on the victims and their stories. From a viewer’s perspective, they can find resonance with some of the victims or those they have left behind. Cultural, religious or even humane factors wire us to empathise with victims of a tragedy and this sense of distress is further amplified by social media that causes hyper vigilance, and keeps us constantly engaged and triggered. Our nervous system is on high alert and we feel heightened amounts of stress. For some, it could even serve as a reminder of unprocessed grief that they may have gone through.” She notes that those whose global assumptions — which are fundamental, often unconscious, beliefs about the world and one’s place in it — are challenged by such events will find it much harder to come to terms with such news. “For instance, if you have a fundamental belief or positive bias about being exempt from tragedies such as war, terminal illnesses or even freak accidents, such events can challenge the very world and life you take for granted in a disconcerting manner,” she says. Practise self-care through activities such as spending time in nature The recent incident will be harder to accept for individuals who suffer from aerophobia or a fear of flying, says Dr Nahid Dave, a psychiatrist at Thought Matters: “I think we’re going to see a lot of panic attacks at the airport or probably avoidance of taking the flights. For people who suffer from such phobias, their worst fears have come true. And, it can cause them to catastrophise their own experiences.” Coming to terms Although withdrawal is a common response in those affected, who may perceive it as a way to protect their emotional space, Shroff cautions against long periods of reclusiveness. “As human beings, we are wired to be social. We must make a conscious effort to reach out and connect with others, and talk about what we’re going through,” she says. She also advises that once the shock has passed, negative events such as these can fuel our desire to look inwards and re-prioritise our own lives. “Such realisations could prompt us to recalibrate our own world views, and take stock of what really matters to us,” she says. Abhilasha Daga, Dr Nahid Dave, Arti Shroff and Janhvi Dargalkar, clinical psychologist She, and the other experts, share tips to cope: 1 Acknowledge your feelings: “Allow yourself and others to express emotions without judgment. Grief can manifest in various ways — sadness, anger, confusion — acknowledging these feelings is the first step toward healing,” says Dargalkar. 2 Stay connected: Dargalkar recommends reaching out to friends and family members to foster a supportive environment, where you can freely share your thoughts and feelings. “Regular check-ins, even a simple message, can make a significant difference,” she says. 3 Practise self-care: Engage in activities that promote well-being, such as exercise, mindfulness, spending time in nature or creative hobbies, suggest Shroff and Dargalkar. Prioritising sleep, nutrition and relaxation techniques can help manage stress and emotional turmoil. 4 Limit media exposure: While staying informed is important, excessive exposure to distressing news can exacerbate anxiety. Set boundaries around media consumption to protect your mental space, cautions Dargalkar. Shroff suggests sticking to credible sources of news so that you don’t fall prey to rumours that are designed to trigger a heightened emotional response, while Dr Dave recommends sticking to news sources that present updates in a non-inflammatory manner. “Reading an update versus watching a news video can produce different responses in your brain. While reading an update engages your visual centre, videos stimulate your auditory centre, emotional centre, amygdala and limbic system. Each time you come across a distressing update, your body experiences a surge of cortisol, or the stress hormone. Cortisol disrupts your ability to feel happiness or hope. It can result in sugar cravings or binge eating episodes,” Shroff concludes.
16 June,2025 09:21 AM IST | Mumbai | Anindita Paul1 The walking tree: AN origin story from the Nicobar Islands indicates that before people became ruthless towards forests, trees could walk and talk. While trees can’t walk, having developed complex networks of roots over the years, there is one species which gives the illusion of movement: the walking palm tree in Central America. It has a unique root system where new roots grow in the direction of sunlight, and the old ones wither away. The tree actually does not move away from its spot. 2 The victory dance: Monsang people are among the many Naga tribes settled in northeast India. Their origin story suggests that their leader Thungpungpa brought his people out of the cave, the ‘khor’, to the upper world, after fighting a tiger. The victory dance. Illustration Courtesy/Damini Gupta To celebrate, the tribe moves to the rhythms of a drum and performs Rhimpuw Laam, a dance depicting their hero’s victory. Archaeological discoveries indicate that humans left caves when they took up agriculture, building cane and bamboo homes. 3 The date of India: Tamarind gets its name from the Persian phrase Tamar-i-Hind, the date of India, and has been cultivated in India for years. For some tribes of Odisha, gathering and selling it is their source of livelihood. The date of India. Illustration Courtesy/Damini Gupta In fact, the Jhodias of the Paroja tribe has an interesting origin story. It depicts a hill god turning prawns into tamarind. The Jhodias delight in good meals comprising seafood, and tamarind forms an important part of it, adding flavour to the dish. 4 Now, bat’s a mystery! Scientists and palaeontologists are on a mission to investigate which ancient species the bats have evolved from. Their beady eyes and pointed ears are like a rat’s. Now, bat’s a mystery!. Illustration Courtesy/Damini Gupta The Bhutias, nomads from Tibet, living in the Himalayan region of Sikkim, consider it a bird. They’re known as Pha Wangs in the Tibetan language. They can be found in Sikkim, alongside the Himalayan tahr and the blood pheasant, the state bird. Bat is the only mammal in the world that can fly. 5 Of spirits and sorcery: The Baiga people, living in Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand, Madhya Pradesh, believe in healing and magical powers, with their first ancestor, Nanga Baiga, bringing this gift to them. Of spirits and sorcery. Illustration courtesy/Athulya Pillai; Pics Courtesy/Hachette India He wears a loincloth and a turban. The tribe has two “highly respected magicians” to whom such powers of protection have been passed down. The dewar keeps all negative energies and disasters away, while the gunia heals the tribe from illnesses. Nalini Ramachandran Bonus: The desert walkerAccording to the story of the Rabaris of Gujarat and Rajasthan, camels lived in icy regions. Historically, their fossils have been found in the Canadian Arctic region. Later, their legs adapted to sand, and they developed a hump as they migrated to the desert. Available Leading bookstores and e-storesCost Rs 799
14 June,2025 08:53 AM IST | Mumbai | Nandini VarmaIf we had a penny for every time a movie milked male friendships to death — the overdone brother-from-another-mother trope — we’d have enough money to make one ourselves. A few that dare to flip the script, like Payal Kapadia’s All We Imagine As Light, have already started fading out of memory. In real life, things are quite the contrary. “Many women I know receive more flowers from their female friends than the men they date,” laughs activist and writer Divya Kandukuri. Today, she will join early childhood development and education trainer Sneha Shetty to revisit and rekindle friendships that shaped their lives. Participants sketch on a canvas Women & Friendships, the duo’s travelling initiative, will make a pit-stop in Mumbai for the first time after successful stints in Bengaluru and Chennai. The seed was sown when Shetty saw her own mother find companions in a local housing society group called Naughty Naaris. “My mother admitted how her childlike mischief had succumbed to the responsibilities of raising a family. The close-knit group was an outlet for her,” Shetty recalls. Divya Kandukuri and Sneha Shetty If you’re reeling under FOMO already, Shetty assures us you’ll make more than enough friends at the session to establish your own Naughty Naaris 2.0. “We start the session by letting participants talk about their own memories with their friends. We ask each other a set of questions and patiently listen to our shared experiences. By the end of the session, many of the participants tell us they’re itching to reach out to childhood friends once again,” reveals Shetty. A section of the community artwork features personal notes Following a short-film screening, the session turns into a collaborative art room. “We lay out a row of sheets taped end to end and take turns sketching, doodling, and jotting down our experiences on each page. This is where the intersection of gender, age, class, and caste become clear,” Kandukuri shares. At the end of the day, each participant takes back one of the panels as keepsake. While the workshop is open to women and queer individuals of all age groups, not many older women might be extroverted social butterflies like Shetty’s mother, we point out. “We have had participants in the past who were unsure if they’d fit in. To our surprise, they all opened up once they realised they’re in a safe space. There’s an implicit understanding between women who have shared experiences,” Shetty reveals. “For a change, I don’t have to worry about how I’m sitting, what I’m wearing, or if my bra strap is showing,” Kandukuri chimes in. The duo leaves us with an anecdote, “We usually ask people to bring along one object that reminds them of a friend. A participant in her 40s showed up to our previous session with an illustrated cookbook. Her friends had carefully customised each page for her, with special instructions in every step. Can you imagine how much effort that would have taken?” What can we say, girls will be girls. ON Today; 10 am to 6 pm AT Girgaon (Location revealed on registration)LOG ON TO @womenandfriendships ENTRY Rs 3500
14 June,2025 08:43 AM IST | Mumbai | Devashish KambleADVERTISEMENT
