Ahead of her choir showcase Footprints, 32-year-old Dawn Cordo talks to us about the labour of love that is managing an enthusiastic children’s choir. Like mother, like daughter, we’d say. After forming the choir group Glee Hive in 1990, her mother Celeste Cordo has helped many young, restless talents find perfect pitch in the neighbourhood. Celeste herself would say she learnt from the best in the business growing up. Josic Menzie, for instance — the ace violinist who became one of the first Indian jazz musicians to play at the Taj Mahal Hotel. Young choristers as young as five years old will take a walk down memory lane, and offer a window to a hopeful future through the 60-minute showcase this weekend. “Footprints translate to more meanings than one. We’re paying homage to the masters whose footsteps we follow, while reminding listeners of the footprint they leave behind for the next generation,” Cordo reminds us. ON April 12; 7 pmAT St Andrew’s Auditorium, Bandra West. LOG ON TO @thegleehive; district.inENTRY Rs 550 Echo-friendly tunes Blanche Viegas’ stellar career spanned seven decades. PIC COURTESY/VIEGAS FAMILY Staying true to the theme, the performance will double as an activity in reducing guests’ carbon footprint. A collection station at the venue will gladly accept pre-loved clothes that will be recycled by city-based recyclers, ReCircle. It’s all choir Jini Dinshaw founded the Bombay Chamber Orchestra in 1962. File pic/ATUL KAMBLE Choirs are not all about Western Classical music.Take a look at some unlikely tunes that the group has turned into choir arrangements.>> No One Is Alone: Rock ballad by Stephen Sondheim from the musical Into The Woods>>Let it Snow: A classic holiday jazz song by Dawn Cordo Dean Martin>> Shake the Papaya Down: A popular children’s song by ABC KidsLOG ON TO @thegleehive Remember me? >> Blanche Viegas>>Jini Dinshaw>>Josic Menzie>> Melville Rebello>> Ivy Fernandes 300 kgWaste collected and recycled at last year’s edition
09 April,2026 11:13 AM IST | Mumbai | Devashish KamblePopcorn Entertainment Nothing says ‘OTT promotion’ like wearing the ultimate cinema snack right on your lapel. Sai Tamhankar brings the crunch to a media event on Wednesday, while co-star Vijay Varma keeps things ‘reel’ by documenting the frenzy. Their show, Matka King, premieres next week. The Art of the cosmic call-out Be careful what you shout from the bleachers because the universe doesn’t just have ears, it has a sassy scriptwriter with a penchant for poetic justice! This evening, as the Wankhede Stadium names a stand after Ravi Shastri, we celebrate a cricketer who practically invented main character energy. Ravi Shastri Back in February 1980, while watching an India-England Test match with his Podar College mates, Shastri didn’t just enjoy the view — he claimed it. He declared that by the next Test at Wankhede, he’d be on the field. True to his word, he played his maiden Test at Wankhede in November 1981, mirroring a young Sir Don Bradman who once told his father he wouldn’t rest until he played at the Sydney Cricket Ground. Clearly, this cosmic ‘calling your shot’ is alive and well. Look at the viral clip of a tiny Vaibhav Suryavanshi in the stands, frantically cheering for Jasprit Bumrah, only to fast-forward to today where the 15-year-old is hitting his idol for sixes. Whether it’s Shastri eyeing the pitch or a kid visualising a face-off with a legend, the theme is clear: put your ambition into the universe and watch it bend to your will. A queen against compliance If there’s one thing Sushant Divgikar (aka Rani KoHEnur) won’t do, it’s take a seat — unless it’s a throne. And in a world of quiet compliance, this is exactly the thunderclap we need. On a fiery episode of InControversial with Pooja Chaudhri that dropped yesterday, the artist and activist doesn’t just spill the tea — we’re served a whole damn brewery. Sushant Divgikar aka Rani KoHEnur Addressing the “absurd” Transgender Amendment Bill on the podcast, Rani drops the ultimate logic bomb: “If it’s about me, it should not be without me.” With a Master’s in Psychology and the poise of a queen, Rani dismantles the hypocrisy of a system that “worships goddesses but oppresses daughters,” and asks why a room full of men is busy policing trans bodies while rape laws and trafficking remain “un-rectified.” The message to lawmakers? A perfectly timed, utterly unfiltered: “Are you high?” Rani also takes a moment to call out the entertainment industry’s conveniently “disappearing backbones,” taking aim at those who cash in on queer stories but go radio silent when it’s time to stand up and be counted. Because for Rani, drag isn’t just performance — it’s protest, power, and pure presence. From singing in the bathroom to the billboards of Times Square, this isn’t just one queen’s glow-up story — it’s a reminder that visibility is political, and silence is not an option. Boundaries Crossed A top-tier all-rounder, known as much for his explosive strike rate as his luxury lifestyle, appears to have lost control of the scoreboard at home. While he continues to rake in massive sponsorships and a heavy paycheque from his IPL franchise, insiders whisper that he no longer holds the keys to his own vault. The power has shifted entirely to his lady love, who has reportedly taken over his accounts with an iron fist. The situation has turned particularly sour within the family circle — word is the cricketer’s own mother has been placed on a strict stipend. No matter what the cameras capture, we hear the real game is being played in the ledger books. It’s a sad story indeed when mum has to make do with ‘pocket money,’ while the flavour of the season is busy lining her own pockets. Brunch for a star Our Easter hangover appears to be far from done, with Sunday’s shenanigans still steering the mood. And frankly, when the ever-graceful Bindiya Goswami is playing hostess, one doesn’t simply recover from a brunch — one ruminates on it. Sitara’s Easter brunch An annual fixture at filmmaker JP Dutta’s Juhu residence, Easter afternoon has always been a sentimental ode to Bindiya’s late Catholic mother. This year, however, the party pulled out all the stops, doubling as a grand debut for the tiniest star in their orbit: daughter Nidhi’s ten-month-old, Sitara. Leave it to the Dutta household to pivot from cinematic epics to a full-blown Beatrix Potter fever dream. For a family that famously skipped the ‘pet phase’ growing up, the arrival of a petting corner filled with live rabbits was the ultimate plot twist. Nidhi and husband Binoy Gandhi presided over the scene as doting parents, navigating a setting that was part-fairytale, part-fete. Nidhi Dutta Between the vintage ice cream cart and the Peter Rabbit placemats, the aesthetic was pure, curated whimsy. Eschewing the usual party favours that inevitably end up in a bin, tiny guests departed with classic Peter Rabbit books — a touch of old-school gravitas amidst the over-the-top indulgence. If this is how the Duttas do a first Easter, we can only imagine the theatricality awaiting Sitara’s first birthday. Stay tuned.
09 April,2026 11:08 AM IST | Mumbai | Sonali Velinker KamatThursdayThe world’s a stage Looking to lay your 3 am notes app poetry bare? Hooted1ce’s Beyond The Lines Open mic sets its stage just for you. Whether you want to participate or simply bear witness to the evening’s musings, this soirée is for anyone who has a passion for live poetry and music. TIME 8 pmAT Funkaar, Laxmi Industrial Estate, Andheri West.LOG ON TO in.bookmyshow.comENTRY Rs 257 FridayDiagnosis: Food coma PIC COURTESY/noa by nutcracker Cakebait is an all-you-can-eat dessert night featuring 20 desserts spread from cheesecakes, to choux and bombolini’s, and a surprise drop. Time 9.30 pm; 10.45 pmAT Noa by The Nutcracker, Fort. LOG ON TO district.in ENTRY Rs 839 SaturdayLet’s keep it casual PIC COURTESY/@Madhur Virli Madhur Virli’s fresh perspective on romantic relationships and unapologetic retellings of bedroom anecdotes have earned him a cult following. Casual-Tea promises an eccentric experience. TIME 8 pmAT Yashwantrao Chavan Centre, Nariman Point.LOG ON TO in.bookmyshow.comENTRY Rs 499 Shhh… I’m busy healing PIC COURTESY/@BODHIKRISHNAOFFICIAL The Soshio Club provides its participants a unique unwinding opportunity through sound healing and art therapy, curated by Bodhi Krishna. TIME 5 pm AT Eclipse Wellbeing-Yoga Studio and School, Krishna Heritage, Santacruz West.LOG ON TO district.in ENTRY Rs 1899 SundayA doctor’s dilemma Farokh Udwadia. FILE PIC Farokh Udwadia’s (below) The Doctor assesses the ethics of utilitarianism through the lens of a doctor who finds himself in the middle of a nation-wide reckoning forcing himself to question his duty as a medical professional responsible for saving lives.TIME 7 pm onwardsAT Experimental Theatre, NCPA, Nariman Point. LOG ON TO ncpamumbai.comENTRY Rs 200 Birding curiosities Sanjay Gandhi National Park’s (SGNP) Bird Hide provides an immersive and peaceful birdwatching experience in the green terrains of Yeoor. Whether you are a seasoned birdwatcher or a newbie exploring its rich biodiversity, this walk is the place to be.TIME 6.45 am or 1 pmMEETING POINT SGNP Bird Hide, Yeoor, Thane.Call 9325693451ENTRY Rs 300 Short and sweet PIC COURTESY/YOUTUBE Short Film Adda’s special selection of shorts is for those who keep an eye out of niche movies and budding directors. Tune into this week’s screening which will feature interesting short films like Dhan Ki Devi, Gudgudi (below), My Parents Don’t Fit and The Pissing Tale.TIME 6 pm at The Habitat, Road 3, Khar West. Log on to in.bookmyshow.comEntry Rs 200
09 April,2026 11:07 AM IST | Mumbai | Saanvi BhosaleThe immediate sign of not being in Mumbai is the absence of incessant honking. It feels almost uneasy at first as we drive into the village of Narlai on a warm April afternoon. Located at the foothills of the Aravallis, adjacent to the Kumbhalgarh range, the village offers an escape to tourists looking from the familiar destinations of Udaipur, Jodhpur, or Jaisalmer. “You have to be a traveller to discover this,” our driver Kishore reminds us. The village entails 10 clusters of hamlets of communities as diverse as Jains, Mevashis, Bhils, and nomadic tribes. With education, mobility, and access, provided by the Maharaj Shri Swaroop Singh ji Charitable Trust (MSSCT), the village is keeping up with the pace of its more urban neighbours. Royal repose A stepwell reservoir on Elephant Hill The palatial haveli of the Jodhpur family, Rawla Narlai, is at the heart of this change. In 1997, the late Maharaja Swaroop Singh and Rani Usha Devi transformed this 17th Century haveli into a heritage retreat to suit the tastes of a global traveller. “We hope to create a sustainable ecosystem that enriches the village, while providing a royal experience,” admits general manager, Kripalini Singh. While the structure of the palace and the open courtyard — still used for village meetings when the royals visit — remains unchanged, there are aesthetic additions overseen by another royal family member, acclaimed designer, Raghavendra Rathore. Artefacts and sculptures left behind by villagers during theri trips to the temple. Pics/Shriram Iyengar Hidden world Conservation efforts began earnestly in 2024. We learn of 11 irrigation wells along the reserve. From wolves, to black bears, boars, and a population of 20 leopards, the diversity is surprising. The hills around the village are dotted with temples on their peaks We joined villager and conservator Bhupender Singh as they tracked a new mother, Laxmi, and her 11-month-old leopard cub. While we spotted the cub hiding in a distant crevice atop a hill, the mother remained elusive. “They are just like cats. Very introverted,” comes Singh’s reply. Different experiences For the visiting tourist, the region offers a flavour different from the usual royal experiences in Rajasthan. After all, not many villages will offer you a chance at an ancient Narlai stepwell, still in use. The six-course dinner at the stepwell features a traditional Laal Maas, Hare Pyaaz Ki Sabzi, Dal Bati Churma, and hot Bhakris cooked on wood fire. Those with a sweet-tooth can hardly skip the ghee-laden Gajar Ka Halwa. But it is the walk through the village that redefines it. The people retain a hardiness yet kind wisdom that is characteristic of the region. On our walk up the Elephant Hill one early morning, a septuagenarian outpaced us, bare foot and singing all the way, to the temple of Lord Shiva at the peak — proof that the old ways will survive.
09 April,2026 09:47 AM IST | Mumbai | Shriram IyengarThe ‘Fatty’ Files Who needs a power suit when you have a custom bag tag and a pup? Fatima Sana Shaikh exits a meeting at Roy Kapur Films in style on Tuesday, proving that the best deals are signed with a side of sass and a little fur Maharani Moves Fashion designer Maheka Mirpuri turned the Taj Lands End into a high-octane runway on Tuesday, unveiling her latest collection over chic hors d’oeuvres and even chicer company. Leading the pack wearing Maheka’s Maharani Athleisure line was Sunny Leone, who popped in head-to-toe pink, with nails to match. But don’t let the sharp look fool you — there were zero talons on display. The night was strictly about girl power, solidarity, and supporting a designer whose heart is as big as her guest list. Maheka Mirpuri and Sunny Leone While the new threads were the headline, the real glue in this association is Maheka’s tireless philanthropic hustle. “What drew us together was charity,” Sunny shared with yours truly, reflecting on her long-standing relationship with Maheka and her M-CAN Foundation. “We’ve developed such a great bond — it’s always laughs.” Of course, Sunny wasn’t the only heavy hitter in the room — the evening was a revolving door of nostalgic glamour with Isha Koppikar, Akanksha Malhotra Aggarwal, and Madhoo Shah all turning up to show some love. Between the neon vibes and the genuine sisterhood, Maheka didn’t just launch a collection — she reminded us that the best accessory is always a solid support system. Going Gaga It has been a few days since Easter but we’re still aww-ing over Brett Lee and daughter Helena’s celebratory special on social media. Cricket’s favourite rockstar bowler traded his 150 kmph thunderbolts for acoustic melody on Sunday, strumming his guitar while his daughter belted out Shallow for a soulful holiday sing-along. It’s a side of the speedster you’ve got to love — one that feels less like a fierce Aussie competitor and more like a doting, musically-inclined dad. Brett Lee and daughter Helena Of course, for those of us in Mumbai, this musical streak is perfectly on-brand. We still remember when ‘Binga’ became an honorary Mumbaikar, topping the charts with the legendary Asha Bhosle for their 2006 duet, You’re the One for Me. And since his 2011 foray into musical philanthropy for the city’s marginalised children, Lee’s guitar has always had a permanent home in the city. Seeing him pass that ‘sur’ down to Helena feels like a sweet, full-circle moment for a man whose heart — and harmony — is inextricably tied to India. Sushi and a side of slay When Kajol isn’t contractually obligated to play the superstar, you’ll often find her flaunting a messy bun, served with a side of no-makeup and don’t-mess-with-me. But April 6 saw the actor looking flawless at our favourite Japanese haunt, Izumi — out for a casual lunch with her inner circle. Seated at a tiny table was a terrific trio — with interior maven Renu Chainani making up the numbers — sharing ramen and revelations. Kajol While Gen Z is busy posting ‘candid’ gym reels, the OGs evidently prefer a low-key catch-up and high-quality sushi. Kajol is known to favour Oriental eatery Mizu too, but when something other than gyoza calls, Malaika Arora’s Scarlett House serves as the ultimate private sanctuary. Bandra offers a buffet of backdrops for Kajol and her clan, but the item that has them coming back for more isn’t on any menu: pure, unscripted camaraderie. Boardroom Bombshell Another one of Nutan’s nieces is on my radar today — and she’s a power player too. Reshma Chattaram Chamberlin chose to trade a cinematic spotlight for the American dream several years ago — bypassing the family business to create her own brand of stardom. Currently co-founder and chief brand officer at Summersalt (a direct-to-consumer swimwear brand known for being stylish, sustainable, and inclusive), Reshma is making waves on foreign shores. Reshma Chattaram Chamberlin Named one of the ‘10 Most Innovative Style Companies of the Year,’ Reshma’s rise with Summersalt saw her recently commanding the legendary Nasdaq board in the heart of Times Square. While that massive New York moment is what grabbed our attention, Reshma has been a quiet force for years — raising an enviable round of funding for her brand, making it to the very magazine pages she once designed, and methodically disrupting the American retail market from her St. Louis headquarters. It’s a masterclass in global brand-building that proves you don’t need a film set to be a leading lady — even when you come from a lineage of silver-screen stars.
08 April,2026 09:26 AM IST | Mumbai | The Guide TeamIf clothes could speak, this outfit would whisper instead of making a scene — and still hold the room with ease. On Kriti Sanon, the look feels like a deliberate pause in a world that’s constantly trying to be louder. The plaid blazer channels the oversized silhouettes that defined 1990s fashion, carrying a quiet authority rooted in old-school tailoring, while the soft ivory shirt offsets it with an effortless ease. The wide-leg trousers don’t just follow trends; they create movement, lending the silhouette a sense of boss lady control. With plaid blazers returning to the spotlight — most notably in the Prada Prince of Wales blazer 2024 — this look feels timely without being overdone. If The Devil Wears Prada taught us anything, it’s that refinement speaks volumes — and this is exactly the kind of outfit that would earn a knowing glance from the fashion’s high priestess, Miranda Priestly. Log on to: @kritisanon
08 April,2026 09:26 AM IST | Mumbai | Rumani GabhareThe famed “spirit of Mumbai” lives in an inconspicuous shared lane of a fish market opposite Crawford Market nowadays. “In the early hours, the lane is abuzz with fisherfolk of the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj fish market; you can catch a whiff of fresh catch in the air. By noon, fishy waters dry up just in time for the Mohatta cloth market to take over,” recalls Durva Wairkar, a student of Sir JJ School of Architecture. For the last two months, the batch of M Arch, Metropolitan Architecture at the institute have been following this whiff. A panel depicts and analyses four possible futures of the market through pros and cons. PICS COURTESY/SIR JJ SCHOOL OF ARCHITECTURE The nearly 60-year-old fish market was demolished after a structural audit in 2014. It is now home to a makeshift open market, the future of which remains uncertain. “The presence of the market is both historic and functional. It is important to understand not just its past, but to determine its possible futures, whether it is in-situ, relocation, or moving to the new Crawford complex” says Professor Mustansir Dalvi. A Fish Market for the City, an exhibition by the students led by Dalvi and Professor Sonia Saraf will present ideas, proposals, and learnings from a three-month effort. An illustration of the types of fish sold at the CSM Fish Market TILL April 10; 11 am to 5 pmAT Claude Batley Gallery, Sir JJ School of Architecture, Fort Students’ notes Mustansir Dalvi Relocate or revamp? Two students from the batch of seven reveal their proposed in-situ plans for the future of the market in its current location. Mayuri Chheda >> The market needs dormant time every day to prepare for the next phase of activities. Building points of attraction in the area will draw in visitors beyond market hours. >> Experience centre: A viewing gallery dedicated to the Koli fisherfolk will help outsiders understand how the fish industry works >> F&B revamp: Clean and audited food establishments serving fresh catch from the market will be a win-win for the sellers as well as visitors Durva Wairkar >> Passers-by usually complain and avoid the lane because of the strong odour of fish that lingers after market hours. We’re proposing a new non-air-conditioned space that leverages natural airflow to help ventilation >> Curtains made out of jute sacks can absorb the odour and create a buffer area >> A more efficient drainage system to ensure zero stagnation
08 April,2026 09:21 AM IST | Mumbai | Devashish KambleIf you have been putting off the idea of growing your own plants, this season offers a practical place to begin. With longer days and consistent sunlight, even the smallest home spaces can support a garden. At the Make Your Own Seed Ball workshop led by naturalist and early childhood educator Priyal Soni, organised by Naturalist Explorers, the focus is on a simple, effective method of planting. Participants are guided through the process of creating seed balls — compact mixtures of soil, nutrients, and seeds designed to support and protect germination. A participant presses the mud to enclose the seed. Pics courtesy/Naturalist Explorers The workshop also introduces participants to a range of easy-to-grow, home-friendly seeds such as Gokarn (blue pea), Red Amaranth, Coriander, Methi, Moringa, and Tulsi. Soni adds, “The choice of seeds largely depends on who is attending. For children, we keep it simple with plants that grow easily in containers. If there are more adults, we include species that can thrive in slightly larger settings.” Soni breaks down the whole process into one accessible formula: A balanced mix of four parts soil, two parts potting mix, and one part vermicompost. The ingredients are combined gradually with water until they bind into a workable consistency. “The structure matters,” she notes. “If it is too loose or uneven, it will not support growth effectively.” The mixture should be firm enough to hold its shape when rolled, without cracking or becoming too sticky. Once shaped, the seed balls are left to set briefly before they are ready for use. Priyal Soni Lastly, placement of the ball is equally important. “Planting the seed ball is simple, all you need to take care of is the placement,” she adds. “Keep them close to the surface — no deeper than three centimetres — and cover lightly for the first few days to encourage germination.” ON April 25, 9.30 am onwardsAT Nature & Horticulture workshops with Naturalist Explorers, Ambedkar Nagar, Dharavi.LOG ON TO naturalistexplorers.co.inCALL 8976451433COST Rs 706
08 April,2026 09:19 AM IST | Mumbai | Rumani GabhareSouthern swirls Chef Nivedita Ravishankar’s Anandvan Handmade Artisanal Ice Cream has always leaned into memory. With Southern Swirls, a special menu in collaboration with creator Netra Venkat, that nostalgia is now served in four moods. It features the Guntur Express, a dark chocolate ice cream that comes with a sprinkle of Guntur chilli powder and sea salt. Backwaters Bliss turns banana into ice-cream along with some toasted coconut. Guntur Express, Backwater Bliss, Mysuru Morning Swirl, Chennai Cooler. Pic courtesy/ANANDVAN ICECREAM Mysuru Morning Swirl is a coffee ice-cream, except this is a vanilla bean ice cream with a filter coffee caramel swirl. And then there’s Chennai Cooler, a buttermilk ice cream tempered with curry leaves. Sounds refreshing for the heat, no? We liked that the ingredients are sourced with care. Chocolate comes from Telangana-based Soothys, vanilla from Karnataka’s Amyra Farms, coffee from Baarbara Estate, roasted by Toise. AT Anandvan Ice Cream, LIC Colony, Vile Parle West.CALL 9820716443COST Rs 200 (125 ml), Rs 400 (250 ml) Seasonally moody Kala Khatta with Kokum. Pics courtesy/Indu ice cream This summer, chef Saloni Kukreja is leaning into what the weather demands. Recently, she announced that her brand, Indu Ice Cream will open a physical space. While we wait for doors to open, order in her flavour of the season. The kokum berry is loved in the South as much as it is in the Konkan. And Indu, serves up a Kokum Sorbet this season. They also have a Kala Khatta and Kokum Sorbet variation for those who prefer a bit of extra tartness. Filter Coffee Ice Cream Tub However, if you would like to stick to the basics, Indu also churns a Filter Kaapi with Hazelnut Ice Cream, and Filter Kaapi with Cheesecake, a combination that could have easily been excessive but somehow holds its own. And for those who want just a little bite of dessert, the Filter Kaapi Dates Bites do the job. A medjool date is stuffed with ice cream, coated in chocolate, and finished with nuts. Date Bites AT Indu Ice Cream (order online on Swiggy/Zomato)CALL 8108933501COST Rs 300 onwards Vegan-forward New on Chapel Road, Kold Karobar is not easing you into anything. Run by Pranshu Poddar, this ice cream stands out right from its making. It’s home made with fresh coconut milk only, sweetened with an in-house date syrup and some jaggery. Inji Puli with Smoked Chilli The standout flavours here are the Inji Puli with Smoked Chilli. Traditionally a Keralam condiment, inji puli is a punchy mix of ginger, tamarind, jaggery, and spice. It is tangy, sweet, and here, it shows up cold. There is also a Curry Patta Ice Cream inspired by curry leaves that is equally distinct. AT Kold Karobar, Chapel Road, opposite Mount Carmel Church, Ranwar, Bandra West.CALL 8110019792 COST Rs 270 (Curry Patta), Rs 300 (Inji Puli) for 130 ml The legacy king Matunga’s Arya Bhavan does not need to prove anything. This legacy Udupi spot began making ice creams in-house a few years ago, and stayed firmly rooted in what it knows best. All their ice creams carry South Indian flavours, are sweetened with jaggery, and have no unnecessary twists. Chikkamangaluru Kaaphi and Mysore Paak. Pics courtesy/JUNISHA DAMA The Chikmagalur Coffee Ice Cream gets the balance right. It’s bitter, sweet, and familiar. Tender Coconut is clean, refreshing, almost hydrating in its simplicity. And then there’s Mysore Paak. The rich, ghee-laden pak has magically translated into ice cream without losing its essence. AT Arya Bhavan, Bhanujyoti Building, opposite Matunga (Central) Railway Station, Matunga East. CALL 9292921919COST Rs 200 onwards per scoop
08 April,2026 09:12 AM IST | Mumbai | Junisha DamaWednesdays are typically a day when most corporate folks prefer to wait it out, and count down to the weekend. Things got a shade interesting recently when the co-owners of Lyla, a Mexican-American restaurant in Bandra Kurla Complex decided to stir, or shall we say, light things up. Their Wednesday dinners will feature a candlelit setting that softens both the space and the pace of the evening. “The idea is to create a space that feels warm, easy, and a little more personal than a typical night out,” say co-founders Pawan Shahri and Nikita Harisinghani. A singer performs during a rehearsal (right) The space offers a low-key vibe for diners looking to relax. Pics Courtesy/Lyla “The candles change the way the room feels, it’s softer, and people naturally slow down. The sing-along element adds to that, it breaks the usual barrier where people just sit and watch. Instead, everyone is a part of the evening. It’s meant to feel like a mid-week reset rather than a high-energy night,” the co-founders share. Pulled BBQ Jackfruit Burger (right) Dirty Money The concept, they add, stems from a gap they observed in Bandra Kurla Complex’s social landscape. “There are enough places to go out, but not many where you can actually switch off and enjoy something without it feeling loud or transactional. We didn’t want to add another event night.” The idea was to create something where people would come back to because of their experiences. A live performer usually leads the session, though the emphasis remains on the room rather than the stage. “A performer guides the evening, but the idea is that the room joins in as much or as little as they like,” adds Harisinghani. “There’s no pressure; some patrons sing along, others listen, while some enjoy it as soothing background music; all three feel natural in that setting.” Pawan Shahri and Nikita Harisinghani The menu is the regular go-to existing all-day dining fave, featuring dishes such as Prawns Moilee, Truffle Mushroom Risotto, and Pulled BBQ Jackfruit Burger, alongside the classic cocktails like Dirty Money and Lyla’s Call. “The goal has never just been a full house,” Shahri adds. “It’s the person who steps in after a long week and leaves feeling a little lighter. If we get that right, everything else follows.” ON Every Wednesday; 8.30 pm onwardsAT Lyla Bombay, Platina Building, G Block, BKC. CALL 7304909066 COST Rs 2500 (for two)
07 April,2026 09:31 AM IST | Mumbai | Rumani GabhareIn Arun Fulara’s graphic novel Shera (Tulika Books), illustrated by Allen Shaw and originally a film by the same name, young Monu and Raju long to catch sight of Shera the leopard. When Monu hears that his family is leaving the Kumaon hills to move to the city of Mumbai, he hatches a plan with Raju. They decide to tempt the leopard with their goat Bijli, so it may appear before them. Will the boys be successful in their scheme? A moment from Fulara’s film. Illustrations pics courtesy/Allen Shaw; Tulika Books By highlighting that Monu and Raju are the only two children left in their village Mayun, the author and award-winning filmmaker comments on migration of the village and town dwellers to the big cities. The phenomenon, he hints, is becoming more frequent. Monu’s mother remarks how his cousins in the city can speak English fluently, while Monu struggles even with his mother tongue, Hindi. Fulara depicts a deep connection of the villagers with nature, not only through Monu’s yearning for the leopard and his pet goat, but through the lore the villagers narrate. Their sense of acceptance of the leopard as part of their surroundings, instead of othering it, is an important statement. Arun Fulara Allen Shaw’s use of earthy colours and open spaces add an idyllic appearance to the setting, with several conversations taking place outside of the homes among the trees, rather than inside. While the details are in the watercolour shades, the expressions of the Kumaoni villagers are articulated with immense precision. They amplify the nostalgic, and somewhat hopeful, hankering of the author for the older ways of life. LOG ON TO tulikabooks.comAVAILABLE Leading bookstores and e-stores
07 April,2026 09:25 AM IST | Mumbai | Nandini VarmaADVERTISEMENT
