Japanese YouTuber Uketsu returns with a new mystery in Strange Buildings (Pushkin Vertigo), translated into English by Jim Rion. The book reads like a game with clues hidden in the detailed blueprints of oddly-planned buildings. It follows the success of Strange Houses, the author’s first mystery novel, which was based on a YouTube video he had posted five years ago. The floor plan with the strange passageway Eleven files are discovered by the narrator. Each contains a story with missing answers, presented through interviews, diary notes, or articles from magazines. Later, we meet the narrator’s friend Kurihara, an architectural draughtsman known for his deductive reasoning prowess, who begins piecing the puzzle together. We learn that in the past, he has been able to make sense of a mystery concerning a house “simply by looking at the floor plan”. The separation of the story from Kurihara’s input allows readers time to make their own speculations with the narrator. Moreover, the possibility that Kurihara’s resolution could be faulty keeps the readers thinking about the chilling stories even after they’ve finished reading the book. What’s most fascinating about the novel is that it introduces contemporary readers to several glimpses from Japan’s history, particularly the 1980s. Many traces of the period which gave birth to a spiritual boom can be found; these are sprinkled with Japanese folklore, such as the origin story of the Fukusuke dolls. Unlike many mystery novels, the guided illustrations and maps in the book are central to the reading experience. They help us visualise what makes these buildings strange, their halls misshapen, and their rooms unusually crowded. Uketsu studies the floor plan in a video that inspired his first book. Pic Courtesy/YouTube With no author information, Uketsu’s identity remains anonymous throughout the book, serving as stagehands in theatre, dressed in all-black to camouflage with the backdrop, change the scenes, and present the mystery to us. Available Leading bookstores and e-storesCost Rs 599 Other recent mystery reads to check out »Good People by Patmeena Sabit»The Dentist by Tim Sullivan»The Hachette Book of Indian Crime Fiction, edited by Tarun K Saint»The Samurai Detectives by Shotaro Ikenami
18 March,2026 10:12 AM IST | Mumbai | Nandini VarmaIf understatement had a flair for theatrics, this would be it. At first glance, the look seems subtle, but as you zoom out and study Siddhant Chaturvedi’s outfit — its inky blacks and clean lines catch the eye. The geometric embroidery is grand, yet dressed with understated pomp. There’s subtle tension between structure and ease: the silhouette is precise, softened by a deliberate flash of bare ankles: unfussy loafers, and a small pearl necklace. The composition feels seamlessly cinematic. There’s drama all right, but it doesn’t scream attention. A thumbs-up for the young, hot Bollywood star who is serving up a natty combination of good looks and sharp style. Log on to: @siddhantchaturvedi
18 March,2026 09:59 AM IST | Mumbai | Rumani GabhareHip-Hop is the domain of the daring, goes one popular phrase. The genre has always been about breaking metres, charting new staccato beats, and using language as the rhythmic base. Jacquilin Lucas aka JQueen has been doing so as part of the Wild Wild Women collective. But her latest expedition with the South Block Cypher moves in a new direction. Featuring the talents of Abisha and Raaga Katrail from the Sollisai Sistahs, and Indulekha Warrier, the track captures the energy and rhythms of hip-hop from South India. The immediately noticeable sound is that of the parai, a familiar sound on the ‘Madras’ (today’s Chennai) street. This rhythm defines the city’s vibe as much as the video does. But it is the sound production that stands out. The track moves seamlessly between the distinct styles of the rappers, from Tamil to street slang, and later Malayalam. Warrier, for instance, takes a more lyrical form when she raps in Malayalam. Lucas adds that this is the first of several tracks to follow that will explore the genre’s rise and influence in the South Indian musical landscape. If you are looking for something different to add to your hip-hop collection, you might want to keep an ear open. Log on to: @JQueen on YouTube
18 March,2026 09:50 AM IST | Mumbai | Shriram IyengarMixed doubles Bandra just witnessed a serious power-pairing crossover! Angad Bedi and Neha Dhupia keep it effortlessly cool as they flank TV’s current ‘it’ couple, Tejasswi Prakash and Karan Kundrra, for a sunny Tuesday outing. Double the dates, double the peace signs. Date night Ever since he held his own (and then some) opposite Rajkummar Rao and Priyanka Chopra in The White Tiger, I’ve had my eye firmly on Adarsh Gourav. Powerhouse performer? Obviously. But he’s also a legit singer, ridiculously sharp, and annoyingly well-rounded — arty, intellectual, and still somehow fun. When he’s not working, Adarsh seems to live for the outdoors: holidaying in the hills, leaping off cliffs into murky ponds, and adopting strays along the way. Of course, it’s been a while since he’s had a proper vacation — these days, he’s making the most of Mumbai’s rhythm. Adarsh Gourav On Monday, the actor stepped out for a night at Soho House with his striking ladylove Radhika Kolgaonkar, accompanied by elder brother Vasishth Bhagavatula — playing either the third wheel or chief guest, depending on your perspective. The venue delivered beachy vibes and the perfect backdrop for a casual evening away from the spotlight (though we definitely noticed). Having wrapped up pandemonious promotions for Tu Yaa Main last month, a little downtime is overdue for Adarsh. His last ‘trip’ was hosting a Hotstar docuseries on the disappearing tribes of Northeast India, which is hardly a holiday. “No vacation yet,” he laughs when we ask, “but soon.” If you’re taking notes, Adarsh, a serene hill retreat in Kasol or Manali might be the perfect escape — trekking, riverside cafes, and complete unplug vibes. Closer to home and safer too. Exotic escapes for all, except Sanju Samson With war raging in West Asia, the well-heeled are looking east for their escapes. Last week, Parineeti Chopra and her Rajya Sabha MP hubby Raghav Chadha were bingeing on mango sticky rice and coconut ice cream in Thailand, while attending a family wedding. Closer still was Hardik Pandya, who headed to Alibag briefly, with girlfriend Mahieka Sharma in tow. Parineeti Chopra and Raghav Chadha Rhea Kapoor had a post-birthday break at the ultra-luxe Amanpuri on a private peninsula in Phuket, and while her azure ocean images were inviting, filmmaker Farah Khan’s Goan getaway had us salivating — between a fish thali at Avo’s Kitchen in Assagoa, and apéritifs at Anjuna’s Jolene by the Sea. Incidentally, both Farah’s fabulous food choices were dictated by the Arora sisters: Avo’s was recommended by Malaika, while Jolene is actually owned by Amrita Arora Ladak. But back to our boys in blue. I’ve already dished out the deets on Rohit Sharma making merry in the Maldives with wife Ritika Sajdeh recently, yet it is Sanju Samson’s holiday — or lack thereof — that merits final mention. When asked why he was chilling in a roadside chai shop in Kerala while so many of his T20 World Cup-winning teammates were holidaying in exotic parts of the world, Sanju was quick to clarify this wasn’t quintessential Samson. “The reality is I also tried for exotic locations, but nothing was available.” Who’d have thought scoring an exotic escape is harder than hitting eighties and nineties in World Cup cricket? Go east when the opportunity arises, Sanju, you’ve certainly earned it! Party Politics Shaina NC and Supriya Sule may represent different ends of the political spectrum — Shaina as a firebrand voice in the Shinde faction’s Shiv Sena, and Supriya as a seasoned parliamentarian with the NCP (SP) — but that doesn’t stop them from sharing professional respect and personal warmth. Shaina NC (seated) with Supriya Sule (behind her) It was heartwarming to see both enjoying an evening out at a wedding in Pune over the weekend, sharing a light‑hearted moment with Aksha Kamboj of Aspect Global and Anamika Gautam. Welcome proof that even politics can pause for a laugh. Nurturing new talent Not that we needed another reason to be wowed by Vir Das, but he’s given us one anyway. Days ago, the Emmy-award-winning comedian offered an open invitation to emerging South Asian designers to dress him for his upcoming UK show. Vir Das “You gotta be a new label, nothing too fancy,” the stand-up star stipulated, in a ‘casting call’ for desi designers in London. Not only will Vir wear their togs for his performance at the Royal Albert Hall on April 1, but also credit them, pay them, and return their clothes once his curtain call is complete. This isn’t a one-off gesture — it’s a pattern. When Vir became the first Indian to host the International Emmy Awards in 2024, he skipped the big fashion houses and spotlighted a young Delhi-based designer instead, handing Shubhangi Bajpai a global moment. Now, he’s passing that spotlight forward again. In consistently using his platform to lift others, Vir proves that generosity can be as compelling as talent — if not more.
18 March,2026 09:31 AM IST | Mumbai | Sonali Velinker KamatEvery winter, it is not only the gulls, plovers, and sandpipers that migrate to Vasai’s wetlands. Tribes from the surrounding areas, including Warlis and Mahadev Kolis of Talasari and Charoti flock to the saltpans to find seasonal employment from November to March. These are the last remaining workers who make salt the traditional way in the coastal town. A walk near the Gokhivare village saltpans will introduce you to them before they return home. Mahatma Gandhi at Dandi Beach during the Satyagraha.PIC COURTESY/WIKIMEDIA COMMONS “The five months are a cultural spectacle. Tribes bring colour to the already culturally-rich town,” says Atul Katdare, a Vasai local who will lead the exploration through his group, Bhovara. “Although I am a local, I learnt of the traditions only recently. There couldn’t have been a better time than the Dandi March anniversary to invite people to see how salt is made,” he adds. Meet the communities Agris: The original owners of the saltpans, they are one of the oldest inhabitants of Vasai. The walk halts at the age-old Mithagar Chimney (below) that once processed salt by-products. It now lies in ruins. Warli: With time, the Agris delegated work to the tribals while retaining ownership of the pans. The Warlis bring glimpses of Warli art and typical tribal huts to the saltpans. Expect to see these on your walkthrough. East Indian Christians: In 1914, the Gokhivare village was struck by cholera. It is believed that the St Roque’s Church was built as a promise made to St Roque (patron saint for cholera) during this period. Stop by to marvel at this historic structure. Kharvi: Originally from Gujarat, the community migrated to Vasai to learn the ways of making salt. The Kharvis built a temple called dedicated to Mahadeva in the area, where the walk makes a pitstop. Atul Katdare Bhandari: Traditionally toddy makers, the community also practises fishing and farming. A local Bhandari family will pour fresh toddy for brunch during the exploration. Salt talk Atul Katdare reveals how salt pans once dotted the coastline of Vasai, Naigaon, all the way northward to Virar. Today, most of these saltpans have faded into memory for two reasons. 1 While younger generations of fisherfolk communities embrace the profession, educated children of salt makers don’t wish to carry the legacy ahead 2 Rampant development in the coastal area will erode the quality and efficiency of the saltpans ON March 22; 7.30 am to 11 am AT Gokhivare Village, Vasai East. (Exact location shared on registration)MESSAGE 9819060144 ENTRY Revealed on enquiry
18 March,2026 09:17 AM IST | Mumbai | Devashish KambleConcrete catwalk Parineeti Chopra turns an unassuming Andheri sidewalk into a high-fashion runway, while an appearance by Imran Khan adds a splash of pink to the paparazzi frenzy on Monday. And the award goes to... The India story at the Oscars on March 15 was headlined, expectedly, by Priyanka Chopra Jonas, who played presenter alongside a dishy Javier Bardem. But it was the bevy of beauties kitted out by Nita Ambani’s Swadesh — between the awards and the after-party — that stole the style stakes. Zanna Roberts Rassi American singer-songwriter Brandi Carlile wore a brooch by the brand, Minnie Driver wore their diamonds, and in a collaborative coup, Isha Ambani wore a bespoke Banarasi brocade fashioned into a frock by Turkish designer Dilara Findikoglu. An unexpected fashionista was the focus of our attention though: British born, New York-based journalist-entrepreneur Zanna Roberts Rassi, who wore a brilliant, beaded couture creation by Abu Jani Sandeep Khosla, also under the Swadesh umbrella. So stunning was the ensemble, we had to give it a second glance — and in doing so, déjà vu was delivered. We’ve seen that ikat-inspired beaded bodice paraded to perfection by Natasha Poonawalla some years ago — matching skirt et al. Sandeep Khosla and Abu Jani Of course, it isn’t the echo of the past, but the brilliance of now that matters, and this collaboration for the Oscars captures that. “We have always believed that Indian textiles and craftsmanship deserve a global stage. This collaboration celebrates the extraordinary depth of India’s textile traditions while allowing us, as designers, to reinterpret these fabrics through a contemporary lens,” Sandeep Khosla tells yours truly, adding that there’s a “subtlety” to Zanna and the way she wore the outfit that was very endearing to Abu. Clearly, while fashion may recall what’s come before, ensembles like these are their own moment — refined, radiant, and internationally resonant. Mourning Marce An outpouring of grief marked the passing of celebrity hairstylist Marcelo Pedrozo on Monday, with everyone from Janhvi Kapoor to Varun Dhawan sharing heartfelt messages in his memory. The Buenos Aires-born artist and ace hair tech had almost 20 years of experience in the industry — close to half of those spent working with some of India’s biggest and brightest stars. Marcelo Pedrozo From others in the HMU world, we hear Marce was warm, kind, and perennially fun. From his list of loyal clients, praise comes in waves. “Today I lost a very very dear friend, a brother, a confidant,” wrote a devastated Nora Fatehi, while Disha Patani shared an equally moving note: “Thank you for all your kindness and softness… Wish we had more time.” Amid an ocean of condolence messages, there’s precious little being said to explain why this bright light was lost so soon. Even those who visited him in hospital on Sunday remain tight-lipped about the circumstances. For now, the silence around his passing only deepens the sense of loss. What remains certain is the mark Marce left on the people and projects he touched — a legacy of kindness, creativity, and friendship that won’t soon be forgotten. Treasures of the heart The people we love leave imprints that show up in the treasures we collect — and the tributes we create. Last week, we shared the story of designer Farah Khan Ali’s heartfelt homage to her late mother, Zarine Khan — a lovingly crafted jewellery collection that will be unveiled at a show this Saturday. Vanita Bhandari Following that beautiful thread, entrepreneur Vanita Bhandari pays tribute to her own mother, Perveez Aggarwal. Today, she launches Forever Gara — a book celebrating the legacy of Parsi embroidery, and more than that, a love for a craft passed down through generations. With Ghazalah Moloobhoy, Parizaad Kolah, and Aarti Surendranath slated to wear Pegara pieces to the launch, the event becomes a toast to traditions, talent, and the timeless bond between mothers and daughters. Etched in gold, embroidered in thread, and eternally enduring. Courage has no gender Over the past weekend, Anaya Bangar reached a major milestone in her male-to-female gender transition, successfully completing a skin graft vaginoplasty surgery in Bangkok. “This has been a long journey and today feels like a very important step in it,” the transgender woman and daughter of former India cricketer and coach Sanjay Bangar shared on social media. Anaya Bangar The procedure itself is challenging, but being so open about it requires even greater strength. Beyond her personal journey, Anaya has become a vocal advocate for transgender inclusion in sports, urging cricket bodies to support transgender athletes and speaking out on gender identity. Her courage, empathy, and resilience continue to inspire, demonstrating that kindness, love, and bravery truly know no gender.
17 March,2026 03:10 PM IST | Mumbai | Sonali Velinker KamatTitle: The Baby BombAuthor: Govind SandhuGenre: Children’s fictionPublisher: HarperCollins IndiaCost: Rs 499 A new book, The Baby Bomb, is creating quite the stir, and the timing couldn’t have been more appropriate. Author Govind Sandhu says, “This book was inspired by the plight of children of Gaza and Ukraine who are caught up in a war for no fault of theirs. It seems like humanity is determined to destroy itself. The Baby Bomb is the story of a bomb called baby who has taken it upon himself to change the world and save us from ourselves.” Illustrator Allen Shaw adds, “There could not be a better time for a book about the effects of war. Sandhu has shown us his knack for finding light where everything seems most dark. It was an honour to illustrate this profound story that gives us hope.” The book introduces us to Baby Bomb who was born into a legendary family of destruction. His grandfather, Fat Man, ended World War II with a single explosion. But Baby has a tender heart, and questions his destiny to destroy. When a daring escape plunges him into the ocean, Baby discovers an underwater world where he befriends Ista the shark, Octo the octopus, and Long the torpedo. Together, they uncover a life-changing secret: bombs can choose to defuse themselves! As wars rage, Baby embarks on a mission to share this knowledge with bombs everywhere, offering them what he never had — a choice. This is a powerful story about breaking free from expectations, finding your true purpose, and proving that even those designed for destruction can become agents of peace. Can one small bomb change the world? Your guess is as good as ours.
17 March,2026 11:05 AM IST | Mumbai | The Guide TeamNearly 150 students of Shishuvan School got a glimpse of what William Wordsworth from their English textbooks might have felt when he stumbled upon his beloved 10,000 daffodils. On a trip last week, they came upon 5000 blooms stretched in a never-ending line, albeit of sunflowers, at a 3.5-acre farm in the Boisar town of Palghar. Farmers in the town have recently turned to growing the flowers in addition to vegetables and grains. Adventurers like Raj Chheda of the Join With Me group are joining hands with them to use the attraction as a gateway to nature education. Bhavesh Pawade (centre) and his family receive thanks from students at the farm after a productive day TILL April 12 (check schedule for dates)AT Kirat Village, Boisar, Palghar district. (Farm location shared on registration) LOG ON TO joinwithme.in ENTRY Rs 1799 (includes food) Farmer’s notes Does the buzz around their blooming fields really benefit the locals? Farmer Bhavesh Pawade, who runs one such farm in Boisar told us: >> The increased interest has helped us economically because visitors often buy vegetables, fruits and grains grown on our farm. This helps compensate for the cost of labour, and supports our farming work. Personally, it gives us a lot of satisfaction when people enjoy the experience. >> One special memory was when students from Shishuvan School visited. After their meal on the farm, they all said “Thank you” together with big smiles. That moment was very satisfying for our family and reminded us why we love welcoming people to our farm. What’s the plan? Field dayVisitors can walk through the field and touch (but not pluck) the flowers. Strike a pose like they do in the movies, or simply soak in the natural spectacle. The blooming phase where petals are bright lasts from January to the first week of April. Eat cleanThe farmers grow lentils, vegetables and fruits on the farm. A hearty meal under an old tree’s shade includes rice bhakris, wholesome dal, pickles, and vegetables. Mangoes, jamuns, and cashew nuts are in season. Go with the flowThe farm lies near the River Surya that originates in the hills of Palghar. Visitors can walk along an easy riverside trail for adults and children, or sit by the flowing streams along the way.
17 March,2026 10:59 AM IST | Mumbai | Devashish KambleTimeless beauty: Nimrat Kaur on Waheeda Rehman Some moments leave an imprint — meeting Waheeda Rehman was one of those for Nimrat Kaur. This week, the Pyaasa actress is our chosen icon, selected by Nimrat not least of all for being her late father’s favourite. Nimrat Kaur “I love her for making progressive and extremely ahead-of-her-time choices in her film selection, whether it’s Kaagaz Ke Phool or Guide, which is genuinely one of my all-time favourite films. I feel Waheeda ji has always been true to who she is as a person, and that reflects in the way she carries herself. She has a quiet grace and quiet strength which you actually experience when you meet her and when you see her work.” A true timeless beauty in every sense. Life in Plastic Perhaps it is time for Smriti Mandhana to expand her display cabinet. Already, Asia Cup and Asian Games honours are battling for space with Commonwealth Games silverware and that massive World Cup medal. Let’s not forget an Arjuna Award and a Women’s Premier League title too. With centuries scored across all three international formats of the game, our women’s national cricket team vice-captain has been hitting it out of the park for quite a while now. Smriti Mandhana and her mini-me News of the latest addition to her trophy shelves came in yesterday, with Mandhana’s appointment to another team — this one devoid of other batters, but chockful of big hitters. Mattel brand Barbie picked Mandhana for their first-ever ‘dream team’ of global female role models — alongside ‘teammates’ including tennis legend Serena Williams, professional footballer Chloe Kelly, and German singer Helene Fischer. An initiative to mark International Women’s Day and recognise her impact both on and off the field, this ‘award’ may be Mandhana’s best one yet: a one-of-a-kind Barbie doll created in her likeness. A dream for many little girls, but a reality for less than a handful of Indian women — para badminton player Manasi Joshi and Olympic gymnast Dipa Karmakar are the only others to be immortalised in this way in previous years. Sadly, though, the dream ends as a one-off. Collectors hoping to snag a Mandhana mini-me should know that neither this Barbie nor the others are hitting store shelves anytime soon. In fact, the only Indian icon whose Barbie you can actually buy off the shelf is Katrina Kaif — because even in the doll aisle, she’s a bestseller. All praise for the pangat Of course the Tendulkar wedding was going to be a talking point, and so we’re obligated to dish out the details. Across an assortment of reels, most folks have already seen the arrivals and exits of everyone from the Ambanis and the Bachchans to the badshahs of cricket — MS Dhoni and Virender Sehwag included. At one point, Aamir Khan, Shah Rukh and Raj Thackeray stood chatting with the Gowariker brothers, Ashutosh and Avinash, and we were convinced the press would breach its barrier! Even Asha Bhosle made an entry, so it’s safe to say the attendance was epic. Arjun and Saaniya, flanked by their families. PIC/ASHISH RAJE From friends and family, however, we hear different highlights. A traditional Maharashtrian pangat marked the meal service — an incredible feat considering the guest list reportedly ran into the thousands. Two floors at the St Regis served as seating, with guests giving glowing reviews to both the food and the floral arrangements. If any grievances were aired, those were restricted to the rush for the elevators. Amid the ocean of attendees, the newlyweds naturally took centre stage: Arjun earned praise for his calm and composed demeanour, while his blushing bride Saaniya stole the show in a statement sindoori sari. A meritorious mention also to the mother of the groom: I thought Anjali Tendulkar looked as stunning on Thursday as she did on her wedding day in May 1995 — even prettier, if that is possible. And with that, this roundup is a wrap. From Ink to Intrigue Move over Emily in Paris — our actor-author export to France is making waves in MobLand! We’re talking about Koel Purie Rinchet, who appears to have landed a part in the beloved British crime drama television series, alongside a stellar lineup of stars including Tom Hardy, Helen Mirren, and former Bond Pierce Brosnan. Koel Purie Rinchet On our shores, famous fans of the show include telly tsarina Ekta Kapoor and actor Arjun Kapoor, but the Guy Ritchie‑produced mob saga has a global audience going gaga. Created by Ronan Bennett, MobLand’s successful first season is now being followed by a second, greenlit back in June 2025. With filming in full swing across the UK, faithful fans are crossing their fingers for a premiere before year-end. And now, with Koël joining the fray, all of India will be more invested.
17 March,2026 09:06 AM IST | Mumbai | Sonali Velinker KamatArriving in Juhu on Sunday morning to host a yoga-themed celebration for Women’s Day, Shilpa Shetty proved that Bastian Beach is meant for more than just binge drinking! Sun salutations and sisterhood never looked this stylish Rooted in the mountains Even though he is tucked away in the hills with barely enough connectivity to get through a phone conversation, chef Prateek Sadhu is making waves worldwide. Naar, his remarkable restaurant in Kasauli, currently sits just outside Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants list at No. 66, with the next round of honours set to be announced on March 25 in Hong Kong. Prateek Sadhu Grateful as he is for the recognition, Sadhu’s journey is defined less by the pursuit of accolades and more by a deliberate step away from the industry’s conventional rat race. Kasauli and Kashmir are his great loves, and he carries them with him wherever he goes. Back in January, he served Kahwa (among many other mouth-watering treats) at a state dinner hosted by President Droupadi Murmu for EU leaders Antonio Costa and Ursula von der Leyen — an understated gesture that sparked a lively exchange between von der Leyen and PM Narendra Modi about saffron. Sadhu calls it his “humble intent and attempt” to reshape perceptions of what Indian food can be — and he does so with dramatic effect, one plate at a time. This month, Hong Kong will get a taste of exactly what he means: first over dinner (a two-day ticketed collaboration with chef Adam Catterall at Roganic) and then through a talk titled ‘Rooted’ on March 24, both under the aegis of Asia’s 50 Best. For a chef who draws inspiration from the quiet mountains, the world seems to be listening louder than ever. Close shave for Vaughan Making the most of his time in Mumbai currently is Michael Vaughan, England’s 2005 Ashes-winning captain. Mornings often find him on a brisk walk around Oval Maidan, pausing to watch kids chase cricket balls with infectious energy. Our coastal city being far warmer than Yorkshire, he’s clearly enjoying every sun-soaked step, while packing in an assortment of adventures. From Leopold Café to crabs at Trishna, the cricket commentator is sampling the city’s favourites, working it off with padel, celebrating Holi, and even attending Harsha Bhogle’s son Satchit’s wedding. But Sunday brought his most amusing adventure yet. Michael Vaughan Setting up shop near Mumbai’s Gateway of India, a streetside barber would hardly have imagined having an ex-England player settle in for a shave and shoulder massage, but that’s just what Vaughan signed up for. Dewy-faced courtesy a nondescript Dindayal, Vaughan then made a video to mark the moment — a clip that our in-house cricket nut did not miss. Alluding to Vaughan’s travels, he proceeded to comment, “After Vistara, it’s vastara — that’s what that blade is called.” Serving up a sharp blade with a sharper sense of humour, now that’s quintessentially Mumbai. Colour across continents We should be done and dusted with Holi this week, but colourful stories from the day are still trickling in. While the Princess of Wales had an Indian audience spellbound from afar with her Holi celebrations over in Leicester on March 5 (Catherine even danced barefoot at a temple), a contingent of other Brits were painting the town red in Rajasthan. Liz and Damian Hurley with Arun Nayar In a multi-day celebration hosted by international entrepreneur Arun Nayar, everyone from his ex-wife actor Elizabeth Hurley to television presenter Trinny Woodall took in the sights and sounds of a spectacular seasonal celebration at Raas Devigarh in Delwara. It was a relatively intimate affair — tight on numbers but full of fun, with several Mumbai mavens making the trip, Tanya Dubash and Haseena Jethmalani included. Also in attendance were Roohi Jaikishan, husband Chetan and brother Riyad Oomerbhoy, as well as famed footwear designer Patrick Cox. Expectedly, gulab and gulal were central to the celebrations that began with colourful monogrammed welcome hampers, were followed by the flames of Holika Dahan, and ended in song, dance, and shared camaraderie. It was a weekend to remember, we’re told — vivid, vivacious, and unapologetically fun. Pashas and potholes With our roads perennially under excavation, Mumbaikars have become intimately familiar with the anatomy of a pothole — and scoring A-stars for excellence in the subject are a handful suburban wards. Learning that lesson last week were Isha Ambani and Anand Piramal, who trekked to Izumi in Bandra for brunch. Isha Ambani Dressed down in shorts, both Anand and Isha navigated a narrow pathway flanked by road rubble to reach the entrance. Isha’s short journey from the car to the restaurant was particularly perilous, given that she was cradling one of her tots too. That said, we can tell you from the gazillion times we’ve eaten there: this tiny Japanese restaurant is worth every uphill step. Their shimeji mushroom and beetroot salad alone is enough to have you lacing up your boots. And until our roads are finally repaired, dodging a crater or two is just the price you pay for your cravings — no matter who you are.
17 March,2026 09:05 AM IST | Mumbai | Sonali Velinker KamatThe diamond standard Aneet Padda channels pure Disney-princess poise, trading a glass slipper for a high-fashion exit in Juhu on Monday. Appearing as an ambassador for a jewellery brand, the Saiyaara starlet proves that while diamonds dazzle, confidence and a flawless silhouette are the ultimate accessories. Gems of love It takes strength to turn loss into a tribute, and love into a legacy — and this month, Farah Khan Ali is set to do just that. We hear the celebrated jewellery designer will open her new flagship store in South Mumbai on March 21, marking an important milestone in her 30-year journey with gems. Farah Khan Ali One has already come to expect opulent design and refined craftsmanship from Farah, but this launch comes with a collection that goes beyond glamour — delivering heart. Alongside her signature monogram pieces, she will unveil a special line of jewels inspired by her late mother, Zarine Khan, who passed away in November last year. Farah believes that jewellery carries a feeling, a moment, an intention. “Long after the day has passed, a jewel remembers,” she says. If that is so, what finer way to honour her mother’s memory than with a collection that transforms love and loss into lasting beauty? And with sisters Sussanne Khan and Simone Arora lending solid support, this event promises to be far more than a store launch, serving instead as a sparkling tribute to love, legacy, and a life well-lived. Slay all day Throughout this T20 World Cup campaign, Tilak Varma has offered up some crucial cameos, but his all-star moment appears to have arrived after we claimed the cup! Still buzzing from the high of Sunday’s victory, we woke up on Monday to find Tilak took the trophy to bed with him — if only for a few photos. Tilak Varma In a series of super-sexy shots on social media, the shirtless star is seen in his hotel room, toothbrush in one hand and trophy in the other. The pièce de résistance, however, is the last image in the carousel: trophy, tattoo sleeve, medal and the man himself on display like art against soft white sheets. The tournament may be over, but the fun has clearly just begun — and honestly, who would stop at play when you can truly slay? Outlook: Sunny If there was ever any doubt the Little Master has a big heart, let’s put that debate to rest. As our boys in blue lifted the T20 World Cup trophy on Sunday, Sunil Gavaskar kept his promise to Suryakumar Yadav (we told you all about that on February 17) — breaking into a brief jig to celebrate our colossal cricket triumph at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad. Sunil Gavaskar The 76-year-old legend, usually the picture of restraint in the commentary box, let his guard down for a few seconds as India Waale blared in the background. And in doing so, Gavaskar reminded us that cricket, beyond statistics and scorecards, is still — first and foremost — about joy. Ek tha Tiger “I really do believe that I stand on the shoulders of amazing artists and talents that came before me,” Priyanka Chopra Jonas told an audience of eager students during the India Conference at Harvard last month. Arguably our most recognisable face in Hollywood today, Priyanka credited Aishwarya Rai Bachchan and the late Irrfan Khan with paving the path to global recognition. But long before these trailblazers there was another, and it took a true OG to recognise it. Kabir Bedi On Friday, Salman Khan posted a shout-out to Sandokan star Kabir Bedi, referring to him as “the first Indian to do an international TV show.” Generous with his praise, Salman went on call Kabir “forever handsome, enigmatic, the original Tiger.” Both the sentiment and its timing were spot-on, with the iconic series celebrating 50 years at the Sanremo Music Festival in Italy on February 24. Of course, Kabir and his charming wife Parveen Dusanj attended the commemorative event, even interacting with the star of the new Sandokan series: Turkish actor Can Yaman. Salman Khan But back to our local ‘Tiger’ Salman and his tribute to Bedi. “My duaa that everyone looks as strong and conducts their emotional life as @kabirbedi. The new Sandokan @canyaman… you have big shoes to fill.” A roaring dose of rightful praise from one Tiger to another.
17 March,2026 09:03 AM IST | Mumbai | Sonali Velinker KamatADVERTISEMENT
