Thud thud thud,” Bhiklya Dhinda mimics his recent endless travels on Palghar’s bare rocky roads. The tarpa maestro’s recent rise to mainstream fame after his Padma Shri win has inadvertently left his timetable packed, and legs sore. Our conversation on the sidelines of a local festival in Kasa Village comes after eight long hours of tracking the 92-year-old’s movements through local help. Earlier that day, Dhinda made a round trip to Nashik for a felicitation. The morning after our meeting, he plans to head to Pune for another stage appearance. Life with tarpa “I had barely one foot inside my doorstep when someone reminded me I need to be here,” he chuckles, sitting next to his hand-painted tarpa that is almost as tall as him. The tarpa never leaves his side; his great-grandfather Navsya, grandfather Dhaklya, and father Ladkya before him, all wielded the wind instrument. “I was 10 when I dropped out of school. My father handed me the tarpa to carry the 400-year-old legacy forward,” he recalls.\ Dhinda’s tarpa features hand-painted peacock-themed motifs Although made of bamboo, dried gourd, and leaves, Dhinda insists the tarpa is alive. “Just like you and I must breathe to sustain life, the tarpa needs someone to blow air into its pipes; life into its lungs,” he says. We learn from a local that Dhinda has struck a lifelong understanding with his tarpas: I breathe life-sustaining air into you, and you keep me alive by bringing me livelihood. Interest, not awards We ask the veteran if at 92, he has any hopes of the younger generations having the same dedication; especially after the President’s nod. “Attention is one thing, and interest is another. When we present the tarpa in states across India, there is great curiosity among young visitors. Many of them buy tarpas from us. But it seldom translates to long-term interest,” he rues. The bicycle that Dhinda received as a token of appreciation Much of this, as we later learn, can be attributed to the lack of incentives to instructors. Dhinda advocates for government schemes that offer stimulus for tarpa artistes to formally impart their knowledge. “Think of it as a sapling that must not just be planted, but also watered every day,” he tells us. Bhiklya’s wife Tai Dhinda at the family’s residence in Walvanda, Palghar Behind the spotlight Post a short discussion, Dhinda bids us adieu to take the stage. As the announcer on stage strings together praises such as ‘Palghar ki shaan’ and ’92-year-old tarun [youngster]’ in crescendo, Dhinda wades his way through a dense crowd, the tarpa perched tightly on his lips. An entourage of officials and local office-bearers in crisp white shirts form a huddle around him to the stage. Tarpas of varying sizes hung up at Dhinda’s home Just three hours prior to this king’s welcome, we were seated on a string cot outside Dhinda’s home in the eerily silent Walvanda village near Jawhar. His wife Tai Dhinda had allowed us to drop by while we waited for the veteran to return from Nashik. Walls of the Dhindas’ humble abode are adorned with awards and certificates floor-to-ceiling. Are these any real help to their livelihood, we ask. Tai points to a dimly lit room. Inside, a bicycle and a mattress — generous gifts left by white-clad well wishers. By the looks of it, Dhinda might have to play solo in watering the sapling of his art every day. What is the tarpa? Parts of the tarpa derived from (from left) bamboo, palm leaves, and dried gourd In Vikramgad, 27-year-old musician Surendra Vasavale helms the Kansari Warli Kala Kendra. We get a sneak peek into the 100 per cent organic making of a tarpa. The instrument consists of four all-natural parts:>> Air chamber: Made of dried bottle gourd or pumpkin. The vegetables are harvested before they ripen fully. The pulp of the fruit is carved out and the skin is left to dry until it becomes hard.>> Pipes: Hollow bamboo chiselled to fit the dried gourd make the playable part of the tarpa.>> Bell: Palm leaves are rolled to create the flared lowermost part of the tarpa, which amplifies the sound.>> Binder: Beeswax, once heated over a flame and kneaded, makes for the ideal glue that holds the parts together. CALL 8080855941 (to buy a tarpa or Warli artworks) Tarpa at Aarey Manoj Dhinde learns the tarpa from (right) Bhiklya Dhinda While Warli art continues to find makers and takers in the city, we learn that the tarpa faces an uncertain future in the tribal settlements of Aarey Forest. Manoj Dhinde and Prakash Bhoir, well-known faces of the Adivasi rights movement, have taken it upon themselves to learn promote the instrument. “This is the make-or-break generation for Adivasi culture. If we don’t learn how to play the Tarpa, the skill will perish with our elders,” says 24-year-old Dhinde. Surendra Vasavale plays the tarpa at the centre Bhiklya Dhinda’s wishlist >> Incentives for instructors and senior musicians to formally teach tarpa >> Easier paperwork for Adivasi musicians to find employment>> Long-term interest from the youth
14 February,2026 11:09 AM IST | Mumbai | Devashish KambleMumbai is a city of the letters of the Alphabet, but each letter is disconnected from the other,” muses Alan Abraham, referring to how multiple administrative wards of the city lack connectivity and subsequently, inconvenience citizens. The architect leads us around an ongoing exhibition of maps and models, The Everyday City, organised by architecture firm, Abraham John Architects and Bombay Greenway Foundation, an urban design and research organisation. Here’s our pick of the best sessions to catch today. Anca Florescu Abraham (in jeans) explains The Shrinking City, a model of an open space available for an individual Mumbaikar, which is 1.2 square metres, far below the World Health Organisation’s recommended levels 1 Mapping the city: A guided exhibition walkthrough by Abraham (co-founder, Bombay Greenway) dives into everyday systems. During the walkthrough, he explains maps illustrating the open spaces of Mumbai, including parks and streets, amongst others, and improvements needed. Some encapsulate Bandra, Khar, and Santacruz, while others display areas around Juhu Beach. “Creating certain underpasses would automatically reduce fuel cost, traffic jams, and allow residents to access areas from Jamnabai Narsee School to JW Marriott [Hotel],” he says, pointing to a spot on the map of The Juhu Beach Project. “Traffic flow has a particular geometry, favouring four-wheelers often, in turn increasing their demand; subsequently, people end up fighting for parking.” ON February 14; 3 pm The parklet model demonstrates a sustainable use of road space 2 Understanding mobility: This informal session covers everyday commuting, including discussions with Firoza Dadan, Mumbai’s first bicycle mayor, and environmentalist Rishi Aggarwal, among others. Abraham elaborates on the idea, “Imagine a road connecting all stations across the Western Line to nearby parks and gardens, or roads dedicated towards cyclists; Mumbai would become a haven.” ON February 14; 4 pm 3 Health concerns: A session with actor John Abraham, orthopaedic surgeon Dr Dinshaw Pardiwala, and cricketer Jatin Paranjpe examines this. “People need access to open spaces and fresh air,” the architect mentions, leading us to a demonstrated model of a ‘parklet’, an outdoor seating area surrounded by potted plants, accommodating nine to 10 individuals at once. “It occupies as much space as a parked car,” he adds. ON February 14; 5 pm An exhibited collage of the St Stephens Steps shows the cultural relevance of open spaces 4 Imagining further: This discussion emphasises how city spaces are made of memory and creative practice. Anca Florescu Abraham, co-founder, Bombay Greenway, and one of the panelists, notes, “It’s about how cultural expression influences the way we see and use public space.” Mumbai preserves identities and cultures, which can reveal areas that need attention and development. ON February 14; 6 pm ON February 14, 15; 11 am to 7 pm (open on both days)AT The Bombay Art Society, Bandra West. LOG ON TO @bombaygreenway (to register)
14 February,2026 11:06 AM IST | Mumbai | Trisha GhoshGive cupid a chance From confessing to your crush with anonymous song requests, to a burning heart pinata for your anti-Valentine moment, the Stupid Cupid edition is apt. There is also the Red & Green flag ‘breadcrumbing’ for the optimists.ON Today; 9 pm onwardsAT Monkey Bar, Bandra West. CALL 7710083222 (for reservations) ENTRY Rs 1000 (stag); Rs 3000 (couple) (post 10 pm) We’ve got class An evening filled with the poetry of Jeet Thayil (below), Mandovi, and Namaah, followed by a vinyl listening session of Tom Waits’ Blue Valentine album, and themed cocktails might give you some cred on the special day.ON Today; 5 pm onwardsAT Idoru, first floor, above Izumi, Khar West. CALL 8454834348 (for reservations) The burning hearts club Get in shape with a vengeance, or for the big date with the Spin Club 3.0 by the Mile Collective X All You Can Move. Add rhythm and endorphins to your Valentine buzz.ON Today; 7 am to 1 pmAT antiSOCIAL, Mathuradas Mill Compound, Lower Parel.Log on to allyoucanmoove.comEntry Rs 1399 onwards Escape into art Head over to Uttan’s Lighthouse Inn for two days of food, art, and theatre by the Jaan Theatre collective.ON February 14 and 15AT The Lighthouse Inn by the Sea, Uttan LOG ON TO @porvai.journalCOST Rs 3500 (per person, inclusive of transport and stay) Poems from the heart For the more literary romantics, try this Chai and Charcha event, where you can partake in a book discussion, while ‘typewriter poet’ Surbhi Dhoot turns your feelings into impromptu poetry.ON February 15; 11 am AT Rukshaan Art, first floor, Laxmi Building, Ballard Estate, Fort.LOG ON TO district.inCOST Rs 699 For love and freedom If you are confident enough, impress your date with a 360 on this skateboard night with fellow skateboarders as they zoom across the city.ON Today; 9 pmMEETING POINT Metro Cinema, Marine Lines. LOG ON TO @skateboarding_in_mumbai on Instagram
14 February,2026 11:03 AM IST | Mumbai | Shriram IyengarOur weekly ode to beauties from a bygone era — handpicked by Bollywood’s brightest new stars — begins with the truly ageless Rekha. The Umrao Jaan actress is Kriti Sanon’s chosen icon. “There’s absolutely no one like Rekha ji. It isn’t just about her beauty, her poise, or her grace — those are timeless. But there’s also a certain warmth and kindness that she carries in her heart, which reflects in her eyes and glows on her face. She has always given me the warmest hugs and spoken to me with so much love every time I’ve met her. She is someone I admire, adore, and truly respect!” Puppy love Colston Julian (second from left) with Rahul Khanna and the Wet Nose Foundation team. PIC/SHIVAM RAWAL As if we needed another reason to swoon over Rahul Khanna, it turns out The Americans actor is a full-blown animal softie. And not just the pause-to-pet-a-stray kind. Last week, he donated his day (and considerable charm) to shoot with longtime friend and photographer Colston Julian for the Wet Nose Foundation — an NGO championing strays and abandoned pets. “I’ve always loved animals and have a soft spot for our beautiful local indie dogs. I was overjoyed to help support an organisation that is working so tirelessly for them,” Rahul tells us. Colston, the campaign’s quiet catalyst, has been working with Wet Nose since COVID; first picking up his camera to help speed up adoptions. “I lost my dog, Buddy, in an accident several years ago, and I do this in his honour,” the ace photographer explains. In 2020, he rescued a jet-black cat hiding under a car. “I wear black perennially, so it felt like destiny. A year or two down the line, the girls at the foundation decided my cat must have company. Now I find myself parenting two!” Colston laughs. As for Rahul, it’s a commitment he has resisted so far. “With my travel schedule, it’s impossible,” he admits. “But I constantly borrow dogs from friends and family to take on hikes, walks, or just for an afternoon hang!” No commitment, all the cuddles. What could be cuter? Girls’ night in Sanjeev Kapoor and Alyona The ultimate comfort food for the soul? Quality time with your girl gang. Chef Sanjeev Kapoor’s affable wife Alyona clearly knows the recipe, because she spent all of Thursday with a handful of her oldest girlfriends (pun entirely unintended). The boisterous bunch, all turning 60 this year, threw a joint milestone celebration: languorous spa sessions, lunch at The Taj santacruz, and even high tea, before ending the day with a sleepover at Sanjeev and Alyona’s Juhu home. While the ladies whipped up some fun, Sanjeev, we hear, was in Australia on work. A good bit of play, while the chef’s away! A legacy restored Krishnaraj, the Kapoor home on Pali Hill. PIC/SHADAB KHAN Palaces are symbols of dynasties — and ‘Krishnaraj’ is exactly that for the Kapoor family. Originally home to the legendary Raj Kapoor and his wife Krishna (after whom it is named), this iconic bungalow in Pali Hill was reborn as a multi-storey building last year. Neetu Kapoor, Ranbir, wife Alia Bhatt and cherubic daughter Raha are its current occupants. There was a flurry of activity at the Bandra landmark in November, with the family moving back in (from their apartment in Vastu just a few doors down). And it seems the activity continues. Last week, the plaque at the entrance was perched into place by a crane: ‘56 Krishnaraj’ etched in stone to stand the test of time. Diametrically different from the hand painted Portuguese-style nameplate that graced the old bungalow, this one is subtle and elegant. And with its installation, another chapter of the Kapoor dynasty quietly claimed its address.
13 February,2026 09:26 AM IST | Mumbai | Sonali Velinker KamatI Will Find You In My Next Life by Damien Marley featuring SiaReggae and Soul meets Gospel in a groovy track that gently nudges you to slow down Tu Jaane Hai Kahan by Lucky AliThe OG indie-pop veteran’s vocals cut through a ‘90s acoustic instrumental like a hot knife through butter. Quintessentially, Lucky Ali. Pics Courtesy/YouTube People & The Palm Trees by RoshneeThe song blends folk, blues and some rock and roll, which left us feeling warm, calm and nostalgic Vazhkai, En Rose by GanavyaEdith Piaf in Tamil might sound off to a purist, but this young Berklee alumna gets it right with her own take. The key solo is impressive too. Winter Wonderland by Luke Bryan featuring Ella LangleyThis upbeat melody evokes the imagery of a classic, wintertime romance with a light, playful touch
13 February,2026 09:23 AM IST | Mumbai | The Guide TeamEncourage your young ones to engage in meaningful action this month with children who hail from low-income backgrounds. Organised by children’s platform, Snack Time, Ehsaas is a drive which nudges youngsters and adults, to partake in a free donation drive, which is to be followed by a gala auction dinner and hamper distribution drives in March. The kindness box at Magari, a café in Kandivli Urvashii Thosar, co-founder and creative curator, Snack Time, tells us more about the idea, “We have installed ‘kindness boxes’ across Mumbai, spread across Fort, Kandivli, and Kemps Corner. A few more will be set up soon. The aim is to support the education and well-being of children from a few different non-governmental organisations (NGO); all proceeds, and thoughtfully contributed resources are directed towards them. The kindness box installed at Anna Idli, a restaurant in Fort. Pics courtesy/Snack Time Eventually, tangible items like books and clothes will be distributed to children at Hunar Sikho NGO, in Mahim on the main day (March 14).” Participants can donate toys, books, clothing, and stationery, among other items. Resources must be child-friendly and durable; instructions are available on each box for reference. Urvashii Thosar Thosar signs off, “The intended message is that the initiative is ‘by children, for children’. Hence, we particularly urge children to practise kindness and compassion through such initiatives.” TILL March 12 (donation drive)AT Multiple outlets across MumbaiLOG ON TO @ehsaasbysnacktime (for more details on events and to register)
13 February,2026 08:47 AM IST | Mumbai | Trisha GhoshAs the exam season gathers pace, stress and anxiety levels often rise alongside revision schedules. For many students, it stems not only from attempting difficult question papers but also from the pressure to perform consistently well. Psychologist Chandni Shailesh Akhenia says managing the mind in between exams is as important as preparing for them. “Exams are not only a test of knowledge; they are a test of emotional regulation. If students do not consciously reset after each paper, they carry cognitive and emotional residue into the next one, which directly affects their performance,” emphasises Akhenia. Box breathing technique 1 Trust yourself: Students often replay answers and compare responses outside the exam hall. “Once you step out, tell yourself the paper is over. Repeated analysis only fuels stress and offers no academic benefit,” she says. A short walk or calming music can help, as mental closure prevents tension from spilling into the next subject. 2 Box breathing before each paper: Pre-exam nerves are very common. Try inhaling for four counts, holding for four, exhaling for four, and pausing again for four. Repeat three to four times. This simple rhythm slows the heart rate and sends a safe signal to your nervous system which reduces physiological anxiety. Comparing responses post examinations fuel anxiety and low self-esteem 3 Decompress–review–rest routine: After each paper, allow time to unwind. Eat a light snack, and speak to someone you trust for review. Wind down early and limit screens before bed. Akhenia notes, “Rest is not something one needs to earn, it allows the brain to regulate emotions.” 4 Anchor yourself if panic strikes: If the mind goes blank mid paper, hit pause. Put the pen down, unclench your jaw and re-read the question slowly. Begin writing anything you recall. Grounding techniques reactivate clear thinking under pressure. Chandni Shailesh Akhenia 5 Balance focus with recovery: Use the Pomodoro Technique. End the day by noting what to revise tomorrow and closing your books consciously. “Small, deliberate resets prevent burnout and help reduce anticipatory anxiety,” Akhenia adds. Quick-fix tips >> Focus on breathing to stabilise racing thoughts (inhale, hold for four seconds, exhale, and hold for four seconds)>> Release physical tension by dropping shoulders and hitting reset>> Place a hand on your chest and breathe slowly until your heartbeat steadies
13 February,2026 08:45 AM IST | Mumbai | Rumani GabhareTitle: Shadows of AzadiEditor: Manisha SobhrajaniGenre: Non-fictionPublisher: Yoda PressCost: Rs 699 In Shadows of Azadi (Yoda Press), 18 women from Jammu, Kashmir, and Ladakh explore what Azadi means to them. For Shugufta Zahid, a poet and presenter at Radio Kashmir, Azadi (freedom) is getting rid of terrifying memories of crossfires and security checks — the swift rip of the grocery bags in the market by military forces. For author Neerja Mattoo, Azadi is no less than returning to Kashmiriyat, a peaceful way of life. This, she notes, once meant living in harmony in a multi-cultural state and opening up possibilities of aspirations for women. While the dreams of the writers differ, their longing for such a life and their desire to be able to unfix their gaze from the ground are echoed in all the stories. Manisha Sobhrajani The book emerges from the editor Manisha Sobhrajani’s recognition of the absence of Kashmiri women’s voices, despite their presence in public life. The essays are personal histories of the women writers featured in the book. However, in featuring women from different generations, Sobhrajani also maps for her readers a history of a changing state, as experienced by women from the 1940s to the present. We understand from accounts of Shefan Jahan Gazi, Rekha Chowdhary, and Nayeema Ahmad Mahjoor the transition into the period when the military forces took over. Others like Niyati Bhat posit a more recent history, which includes experiencing the pandemic and being a caregiver for her parents. Bold, sincere, and poignant, the stories deserve our attention. They speak about limitations and liberation, pain and resilience. They dwell on the collective effort that peace-building activities require, from men and women, to lift each other up and hold on to the hope that freedom may reveal more than its shadow someday.
13 February,2026 08:45 AM IST | Mumbai | Nandini VarmaSomehow it always goes back to the 1990s these days. Kailash Poojary remembers them well. Before he became designer, and founder of the atelier, VV Exports, Poojary was a student in the city. “Any shoot for a fashion magazine happened in the lanes of Colaba and [Flora] Fountain. Walking down those streets, and looking up at those buildings, was always inspiring to me,” he says. Now, those structures find new expression in the atelier’s latest exhibition, Echoes of Bombay at 47-A in Khotachi Wadi. Kailash Poojary (standing) coordinates with a team member on the embroidered recreation of the map of old Bombay Leading an atelier that has produced garments and high couture for the MET Gala, the Academy Awards, and the Golden Globes, Poojary admits that he was looking to evolve. “Textile art in recent years has evolved far beyond what it was,” he shares. It spurred his decision to move embroidery from within the confines of garment into art. This required, quite literally, a map. Having conceptualised the idea in the first half of 2024, Poojary and his team of five worked on research by acquiring archival photographs, including a Colonial map of Bombay and its seven islands that set the tone. A view of the completed map of the seven islands on display The collection of 12 works was created using delicate aari needlework. Working on both, the reverse and straight, sides of the fabric gave them texture. From the Ballard Pier to the iconic Kala Ghoda, Bhendi Bazar and Regal Circle are part of the collection. Gallerist and curator, Srila Chatterjee points out, “Aari work and zardozi were never used for pictures. It was used for embellishment of garments. This [series] is a tribute to a city done with such delicate craft. What I loved about it is that an atelier has taken this art form outside of its usual confines to make people look at it differently.” Kailash Poojary The archival recreation makes this difference telling. Describing The Taj Mahal Palace Hotel, one of his favourite structures, Poojary says, “It is the way the structure looked in the past, and we have created it in the past. Lesser crowds.” It was a quieter world. FROM Today to March 15; 11 am to 7 pmAT 47-A, Khotachi Wadi, Girgaum.
13 February,2026 08:44 AM IST | Mumbai | Shriram IyengarWellness can be fun too. Way Well, a platform dedicated towards this philosophy, will host its flagship festival, Harmony by the Sea 2.0 in South Mumbai, where their itinerary will put mental health front and centre of a community celebration. The pier at the Bombay Presidency Radio Club “It is designed to blend movement and mindfulness with creativity. Guests can engage in curated, immersive activities. There will be breathwork and yoga sessions, with music therapy, which calms the nervous system and expands the senses, along with sound therapy for healing and relaxation. You can also expect a community-led run club, high-intensity sessions for strength, amongst other activities,” shares Alekha Advani Jain, founder of Way Well, and this festival. Attendees during a previous yoga session. PICS COURTESY/Wikipedia; Way Well Matcha enthusiasts can indulge in whisking ceremonies and workshops, while those craving for peace amidst the daily hustle can retreat to spaces dedicated to conscious connections. Jain adds, “Stalls featuring conscious, sustainable items, from apparel and jewellery, to skincare products, will also be accessible.” As the festival treats communal joy as a form of medicine, attendees can experience a playful session of Art Musical Chairs and enjoy mocktails and conscious beverages, in place of alcoholic drinks. Alekha Advani Jain “It is a shared experience rooted in the community. Our aim is to facilitate authentic human connections, especially in Mumbai, where everyone is always on the go,” the founder reveals. The sea, of course, lends itself as a calming location, she says. “This is our second edition in this city, and I want to create a rhythm where people can slow down, unplug and remember what it feels like to be present in the moment,” she signs off. ON February 15; 10 am to 10 pmAt The Bombay Presidency Radio Club Limited, Colaba. LOG ON TO in.bookmyshow.com; district.inENTRY Rs 299 onwards
12 February,2026 10:19 AM IST | Mumbai | Trisha GhoshFurry day out Take your four-legged companion on a relaxing day out at Zane’s Pet Spa and Salon. Nothing like a massage, bath, and a squeaky-clean scrub to end the weekend of love. Every spa session comes with a complimentary coffee at the adjacent Zane’s Cafe. That’s a paw-fer we cannot refuse. TIME 7 am to 12 am AT Todi Mill Compound, Lower Parel. CALL 9152492637 Licensed to love Find a sense of calm amidst trained therapy dogs at a workshop organised by Your Neighbourhood Therapist and Pawsitive Synergies. Activities include an art station, baking biscuits of love, and endless cuddles. If you’re third wheeling, you’re in for a special discount. TIME 11 am to 1 pmAT Your Neighbourhood Therapist, Shree Ram Tower, Sai Baba Nagar, Mira Road East. CALL 90047506161ENTRY Rs 800 (per person) onwards Date with doggos A couple at the dog cafe. PIC COURTESY/PUPPY CUDDLES Puppy Cuddles Dog Café in Bandra has set you up on a date with its resident furries. Sip on their Valentine’s special drinks and strike a pose to take home Polaroid photographs with the doggos. TIME 12 pm to 8 pmAT Triveni Building, PG Kher Marg, Khar West. CALL 9920442799
12 February,2026 10:12 AM IST | Mumbai | Devashish KambleADVERTISEMENT
