Dreams of peace When I was a collegian, we were into our 50th year of Independence, and so was Ireland. As a fan of the band U2, I responded a lot to the music and cinema from the culture; they have a similar approach to colonialism. For me, democracy and elections became about peace. My playlist: New Year’s Day or Sunday bloody Sunday by U2 are my picks. The other song is Civil war by Guns n Roses. It opens with a quote from former US president, Abraham Lincoln. My watchlist: Tamas by Govind Nihalani is a must-watch for its insight on divisiveness and distrust. If you are looking for a play, Final Solution explores the complexity of the self over the larger picture. Another stand-out is Udhwasta Dharamsala by GP Deshpande. It talks about taking a stance against authority. Quasar Thakore Padamsee, theatre maker An era of anti-establishment I grew up in a time when almost all musicians were anti-establishment. It has changed over the years to becoming patriotic or jingoistic. Political voices in music are much lesser today. One of my inspirations was Bob Dylan, who was the perfect example. While not a great singer, Dylan was an incredible writer. It was all about the words and the thought. That’s how we can bring about change. A scene from Jaane Bhi Do Yaaro. Pic Courtesy/youTube My playlist: You can list every song by Bob Dylan. One cannot go wrong with him. The other tracks that reflect social change for me are Imagine by John Lennon and The Times They Are A-Changin’ by Dylan. My watchlist: The film I love is Jaane Bhi Do Yaaro, a perfect political satire that has stood the test of time. It sheds light on how business interests and politics conspire. Another film is Wag The Dog featuring Robert De Niro; another satire on the American politics of perception. Dhruv Ghanekar, composer Children of Woodstock Back then, there were a lot of tunes and artistes back then whose music, art and works focused on social change. The Woodstock Movement triggered a lot of songs that inspired us. Their themes filtered into my thoughts. My playlist: I would put John Lennon’s Imagine at the top. It is a song that continues to inspire our idea of an ideal society of peace. For an option, I would recommend anything from Bob Dylan’s repertoire. Bob Dylan My watchlist: I actually find movies and shows today to be more politically aware. I recently watched a movie on Martin Luther King, MLK/FBI. That was a good one. Zubin Balaporia, musician Lack of political music I have to confess there is a lack of sharp political music in our country. We have not yet reached that level. I was myself quite apathetic towards politics. My own music feels a little distant. I am trying, and hoping to change that. My playlist: Eyes Wide Open by Gotye, which is a surprisingly sharp comment. The latest one is the Blackbiird cover by Beyoncé in her album, Cowboy Carter. The original song by The Beatles had deep ties to the Civil Rights Movement. My watchlist: I am currently on X-Men ’97 series. It might feel cartoon-ish, but it is a fantastic take on civil rights, freedom of speech and individuality. The other wonderful show I’d recommend is Shogun. It is set in the early 15th century Japan, but offers detailed insight into human rights in vicious political situations. Tejas Menon, vocalist Songs of change >> Bandeh by Indian Ocean>> Chitta by Prabh Deep>> The Warli Revolt by Swadesi>> Ikebana by Alif>> Get up, Stand up by Bob Marley and The Wailers>> Streets of Philadelphia by Bruce Springsteen Watch for social change Ghashiram Kotwal by Vijay TendulkarLog on to YouTube Andha Yug by Dharmvir BharatiLog on to Hindi Gharana on Spotify An Enemy Of The People (1980) by BBCLog on to YouTube Sinhasan by Jabbar PatelLog on to YouTube SwadesLog on to Netflix
20 May,2024 09:23 AM IST | Mumbai | Shriram IyengarTo this day, dating as a single mother isn’t easy — in addition to the practical considerations of eking out me-time after balancing childcare and professional obligations, most single mothers still grapple with the judgment and stigma that’s associated with them seeking love. So, when we came across a recent survey published by a dating and matchmaking app (QuackQuack) which claimed that 46 per cent of single mothers find dating apps the most non-judgmental platform for exploring genuine companionship, we were all ears. Can dating platforms offer single mothers the safety, legitimacy and discretion they seek when navigating the world of dating and relationships? Issues with full disclosure The survey, which was conducted on Mother’s Day, and covered 4,000 single moms between 28 to 45 years of age, from various walks of life, went on to list authenticity as the top reason why dating apps work better for them as compared to other alternatives. In that, participants claimed that the ability to disclose their status as single parents upfront was liberating, without having to wait for the ‘right time’ to make that all-important disclosure. However, the single mothers we approached to corroborate this view had a differing opinion of what the dating app experience for them is like. “Most men respond to this bit of information in one of two ways — some believe that it is their moral responsibility to take care of our needs from the get-go, which can be quite stifling. Others perceive us as being especially vulnerable, and hence try to play us or even con us. It’s extremely difficult to gauge how genuine they are, when you interact with them virtually,” says 40-year-old JB, an HR professional who requested to be identified by her initials only. She adds that having men reprimand her for seeking a committed relationship on a dating app (she claims that they directed her to a matrimonial platform instead) and the inability to trust her matches’ true intentions led her to declare dating apps a waste of time and swear off them completely. Have an open conversation with your children on their feelings about you dating. Representation Pics In the case of 46-year-old Sonal (name changed on request), her experience was also marred by the lack of authenticity. “Over time, I learned to weed out the married men who were lying for the sake of a casual fling and single men who were only interested in sex. I was always very cautious and picky, and I barely met anyone from the app in real life,” the entrepreneur says. She notes that while women tend to be much more accepting of single fathers, the same isn’t necessarily reciprocated by men: “I was dismayed to find that many men upped and vanished when I told them I was a single mother, while many others didn’t really care, and this was the case irrespective of whether I was talking to a single dad or a single man.” Some pros, many cons “The reason I decided to try a dating app was because I wanted to take my time. Matrimonial websites are too overwhelming, and families become involved very early in the process. After a failed relationship, I have become particularly cautious. I like to get to know my prospective partner first, but whether in the case of apps or in the real world, it’s slim pickings,” shares 40-year-old entrepreneur Ritu. She comments that while single mothers are typically upfront about their status, single fathers often withhold this information. Even when they do, they tend to prefer single women. Sonal notes that even for women like her, who approach apps in a moment of vulnerability and for some external validation, the largely negative experiences leave a bad taste. When dating, single mothers should set clear boundaries and take their time Taylor Elizabeth, an emotional intelligence coach, says that dating as a single mother can be both exhilarating and daunting. She, and counselling psychologist Namrata Jain, lay down certain guidelines to help single mothers navigate the online dating space. Take your time “Do not rush into dating if you are not ready — it may take days, months or even years, post heart break or divorce. Spend enough time with yourself until you are comfortable with being alone. Reconnecting with your inner self lets you understand yourself on a much deeper level,” says Jain. Similarly, be selective about who you choose to associate with. “Single mothers should have the mindset that dating you, and getting to know your children one day, is a privilege and not the other way around. Never be bogged down with the question of ‘Who would want to date a single mother?’” she emphasises. Taylor Elizabeth Be upfront “Use your profile to explicitly state who you are and what you want. This betters your chances of finding that special someone who embraces you for you. This simple step will save you time and heartbreak as it will help you avoid connecting with individuals who are not interested in dating single parents or having the type of relationship you are searching for,” says Elizabeth. Set clear boundaries Boundaries are an act of self-protection. Take time to think about what type of relationship you want; how much you want to share about your situation; the pace of the relationship, what types of conversations you want to have (or don’t want to have), and so forth. Make a vow to keep these boundaries, Elizabeth advises. She clarifies that although single mums can be flexible with their preferences, they must always be comfortable expressing what they want and are comfortable with in an online dating setting. Jain feels it’s best that single mothers don’t introduce dates to their children until the couple is seriously involved. “Your children may get attached and will get hurt if the relationship doesn’t work out. Also have an open conversation with your children about the possibility of falling in love with someone and encourage them to be open to you about their feelings,” she says. Trust your intuition “As women and mothers, intuition is a powerful tool. If something doesn’t feel right, trust your gut. It’s better to be cautious and take a step back than to rush into a situation that doesn’t feel right. Just as time heals all wounds and tempers disappointments, it can also allow for a clearer perspective,” Elizabeth advises. Always safeguard your self-esteem Dating can lead to emotional highs and lows, with rejection sometimes impacting your self-esteem. Elizabeth says, “Remember that rejection is not a reflection of your intrinsic value; it simply means the match wasn’t right. To embrace this mindset, treat each interaction as a learning experience about dating and what you are looking for. Reflect on each interaction by looking for clues on what went well and what didn’t, using this knowledge to grow in your understanding of yourself and what you want in a partner.” Jain adds, “Online dating sites can be ruthless to single mothers. The lack of responses, ghosting or even negative responses on these apps may start affecting your self confidence. To protect your emotional well-being, it’s important to seek support from friends and family who love and support you. These connections can serve as an important reminder of your own self-worth.” When you get on dating apps Green flags:>> They are flexible and adaptive to change: Being a single mother can lead to changes in your schedule with last minute projects, illnesses, and the need for attention from your children.>> They give you space to progress in your relationship and are empathetic.>> They are upfront about their intentions. >> Their actions and words match.>> They regard you as an entire person, beyond being a parent. Red flags:>> They refer to your children as ‘baggage from the past’.>> They refer to your family as broken and believe it can be completed with their presence. >> They withhold important information intentionally with the fear of being judged.>> They show a keenness to meet your kids too early while dating.>> They repeatedly offer parenting advice without understanding your family’s dynamics. As shared by Namrata Jain
20 May,2024 09:23 AM IST | Mumbai | Anindita PaulSummer vacations are in their second leg. If you are looking for a family activity that keeps both you and your children engaged and away from the city’s hubbub, we suggest you sign up for Nehru Science Library’s Summer Book Reading Club. Beginning from today, the gathering is spread over six days. It will invite authors to interact with Mumbai’s young readers. The public library aims to promote the habit of reading as a family “The book club will be hosted alongside our ongoing summer reading month, Let’s Read Together (LRT), where we encourage families to bring their children and pore over the vast collection of content in the public library. We have nearly 40,000 books, apart from reading material in the form of journals, research papers, documents, magazines and newspapers. The library caters to all age groups. It makes for the perfect place for a family to read together,” shares Arati N Desai, librarian and documentation officer. While LRT is a 45-day-long family book reading month, the book club will invite one author everyday over the next six days in the morning. Curated by Lubaina Bandukwala, all books chosen are newly published. “Right from a 10-year-old Shanaya Sethi’s The Butterfly With No Colour to septuagenarian Katie Bagli’s 17-volume-long books on Society and Environmental Governance, we are not only keeping this event open to people across age groups, but have also invited authors from a varying demographic!” an excited Desai shares. Shanaya Sethi Sethi, a fifth-grader, tells this writer over a call from Nagpur that her book centres on a butterfly, who unlike her vibrant friends, has no colour. “Through this story, I wanted to convey that it is okay to feel that you are different from the others around you; everybody has their own special quality,” the science enthusiast shares. Other authors who will read out from their latest books include Nandita Da Cunha, Bharti Singh, Pooja Gupta Mahurkar, and Kunjal Shah and Janhvi Langde. On: May 27 to June 1; 10.30 am to 12.30 pmAt: Nehru Centre Library, 1st floor, Discovery of India Building, Nehru Centre, Worli.Email: nehrucentrelibrary@gmail.com (for registrations) Also Read: Why Mulund residents are opposing the PAP and Dharavi rehabilitation
20 May,2024 09:21 AM IST | Mumbai | Devanshi DoshiIf you can’t remember the last time city-based indie-pop musician Raghav Meattle’s name popped up on your favourite music festival’s roster, you’re not alone. Speaking from his Bandra residence, Meattle, once a familiar face at live shows, pauses for a moment, then recalls, “It’s been a while, at least two years,” he laughs when we ask him about his hiatus. In a month’s time, Meattle will set out on an India tour with Intezaar Tera, his new collaborative studio album. The title of the 32-year-old’s new album seems apt for more reasons than one. Written as an ode to long-distance relationships, the album also comes after a six-year-long wait for his fans after Songs From A Matchbox, Meattle’s debut studio album released in 2018. “While the debut album was more cohesive and had a strong sonic identity, Intezaar Tera is much like a mixtape. Nine songs stringed together by the overarching theme of longing, yet musically diverse,” he reveals. The nine tracks, encompassing soul, folk, and electronica, feature collaborations with old friends and musicians from Meattle’s new venture, first.wav. Rohan Shetty AKA Shor, Ashish Zachariah AKA Maara, Jeremy Samson, Pradeep Mathews, Christy Joby, and Aditi Raj, all add their own spin to the artiste’s signature indie-folk style. Meattle admits he has taken a liking for the collaborative route of producing music over the years. “When I sat down to make music with these artistes, I realised how the process became more productive, objective, and quick, sans the usual artistes’ block and overthinking.” As for hitting the road, it’s a mixed bag of emotions for the artiste. “I’ve missed performing for large audiences. The set is a mix of songs from my debut album and the new one. Finding the right way to string them together, given that they’re sonically poles apart, will be a challenge. But I hope I can put together a good time for old and new listeners,” he concludes. LOG ON TO Spotify (for the album); @raghavmeattle (for tour details)
18 May,2024 09:35 AM IST | Mumbai | Devashish KambleThe Identity Installations at Phansi Museum, Durban Founded by architect and activist Paul Mikula, this museum houses a collection of traditional craftworks as well as artefacts like pots, spoons, platters, headrests, beaded clothes and accessories that mark important developments among indigenous communities of South Africa. The most fascinating of them are the skirts and aprons of Nguni women; each colour, pattern, and shape holds a meaning denoting a stage in the wearer’s life.Log on to Phansi Museum on YouTube Appearances Can Be Deceiving Exhibition at the Frida Kahlo Museum, Mexico Frida Kahlo’s wheelchair exhibited at the museum in Mexico The exhibition curated by Circe Henestrosa takes visitors across the wardrobe of the Mexican artist Frida Kahlo. It shows Kahlo’s hand-painted as well as plaster corsets, her jewellery, custom-made shoes, wooden crutches, jar of bandages, back support. It throws light on her personal choices and political beliefs, and opens dialogue on body, clothing, and disability. Couple this with a tour around her home, Casa Azul.Log on to museofridakahlo.org.mx/virtual Furusiyya Exhibition at the Louvre Abu Dhabi Inside Louvre Abu Dhabi Spanning between the fifth and 15th centuries, the Middle Ages come under spotlight here. The exhibition compares the culturally social elites of the East and the West. For instance, a seal shows the Persian and the Roman emperors in combat. We also get a detailed view of the armour of the knights. Books and art on display depict a transfer of knowledge and ideas between the Islamic East (the Levant, Central Asia, Near East and Middle East) and the cultures in the west (like those of the French, English, and Germanic kingdoms).Log on to louvreabudhabi.ae/en/Explore/exhibitions Future Memory Tour at Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum, Japan A broken watch marking the time of the 1945 bombings showcased at the museum This tour presents a walk through the corridors that hold memories of a broken Japan, in the form of testimonies of survivors and remains like clothes, shoes, etc., patches from the 1945 atomic bombing in Hiroshima. Each story is heartbreaking. One display, for instance, shows a caught shadow of a person, who had been sitting on the steps outside the Hiroshima Branch of Sumitomo Bank, possibly waiting for it to open when the bomb ended it all.Log on to 1future.jp/future_memory/#3d-portrait-of-a-museum Veiled Rebecca tour at the Salar Jung Museum, India Veiled Rebecca at the Salar Jung Museum It is best known for the marble statue Veiled Rebecca acquired by Salar Jung III. A tour takes us around neoclassical sculptor Giovanni Maria Benzoni’s Rebecca, standing in her skilfully sculpted translucent attire, which looks so delicate, as though it were made of a light cloth, not stone. Several other masterpieces from around the world preserved by the Salar Jung family can be found here. Log on to salarjungmuseum.in/Virtual-Tours.html Maple Viewers at the Tokyo National Museum, Japan Tokyo National Musem The museum consists of a number of national treasures and houses perhaps one of the largest collections of art objects from Japan. One such marvel is the Maple Viewing at Takao painting, a guided close-up of which points enthusiasts to its details: the arrival of winter, a cup of matcha tea for a penny, children relaxing by the Kiyotaki river, the flautists, the Buddhist monks, a sake party. It was painted by the artist Kanô Hideyori.Log on to artsandculture.google.com/story/ugVx66zJs5-sLQ The Listies’ Guide to the Melbourne Museum, Australia A Triceratops fossil at the Melbourne Museum This is a funny, quirky, and fantastic tour inside the museum. Beginning with a basic map, Matt and Rich, the listies, take us around the Blue Whale skeleton and the dinosaur skeletons, sharing information like when they lived, what they ate, etc. We then head to see other fascinating creatures like the bugs, the diprotodon displays, bowers and eels, along with the colourful sandstones.Log on to museumsvictoria.com.au/melbournemuseum/whats-on Stories in Light Exhibition at National Gallery, Singapore In the 1950s, photography was being recognised as an independent art form in Singapore, where photographers began using the camera to imagine a new landscape and identity for the country after the Second World War. The exhibition, Stories in Light, introduces us to four modern photographers who played an important role in this development, carrying an intent to show the urban changes but retaining the freedom to experiment artistically.Log on to storiesinlight. nationalgallery.sg The Frans Hals Tour at Rijksmuseum, Amsterdam This is the national museum of The Netherlands, which is dedicated to Dutch masters like Frans Hals. An audio tour of his work and life introduces the artist as the first in the country to use “free and loose brushwork”. His quick and deft strokes added fluidity and life to his paintings. It made them seem almost like photographs. Look out for the renaissance elbow poses and the Rommelpot player.Log on to rijksmuseum.nl/en/frans-hals American Fashions from 1740 to 1895, National Gallery of Art, Washington DC The Index of American Design collection here is worth checking out. It contains renderings of objects from the colonial period until 1900s. These include sketches of fine dresses with lace trims and ruffles, silk shoes with brocade work, silk waistcoat for men — each marking interesting developments in American society. Log on to artsandculture.google.com/story/mgVBDunxd5wXLw?hl=en Celebrate in the city . Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu SangrahalayaExplore the museum in a walkthrough of ongoing exhibitions including Ancient Sculptures: India Egypt Assyria Greece Rome, or take your pick from seven hands-on educational workshops.TIME 11 am onwards AT Kala Ghoda, Fort. Entry R35 (children); R150 (adults) (museum tickets apply) . Dr Bhau Daji Lad MuseumJoin a guided walkthrough of F Baltazard Solvyns’ People of Bengal: Coloured Etchings. In a separate workshop inspired by the same exhibition, learn about the science behind music and how waves travel from scientist Vinod Kumar Sonawane.TIME 11 am onwards AT Dr Babasaheb Ambedkar Road, Byculla East. LOG ON TO @bdlmuseum Also check out . Dali Theatre and MuseumLog on to salvador-dali.org/en/museums/dali-theatre-museum-in-figueres/visita-virtual/ . Sistine Chapel at VaticanLog on to museivaticani.va/content/museivaticani/en/collezioni/musei/tour-virtuali-elenco.html . Smithsonian National Museum of Natural HistoryLog on to naturalhistory.si.edu/visit/virtual-tour/narrated-virtual-tours
18 May,2024 09:33 AM IST | Mumbai | Nandini VarmaDon't adventures have an end? I suppose not. Someone else always has to carry on the story.” For many years, this quote by Bilbo Baggins to his nephew, Frodo, would echo through this writer’s head back from when he first read The Lord Of The Rings by JRR Tolkien. Since it was first published in 1949, the epic saga has captivated generations of readers. JRR Tolkien. Pic Courtesy/Wikimedia Commons The Amazon Prime series, The Lord Of The Rings: The Rings of Power, saw fans dive into the complex lore in the fantasy world. With the arrival of the trailer for the second season, the dark lord Sauron is on the rise. While fans are still split about the show, its makers have announced a release date on August 29. We reach out to fans in the city to know about their expectations from the latest iteration of Tolkien’s lore, and the characters they love. It lacks heart I got into the books because of the movies. I love the lore and fantasy that surrounds the world. I have seen the Rings of Power, and dislike it. The misrepresentation of Galadriel is something I hated. I would have loved to see them focus on the dwarves who reclaim Mount Erebor from Smaug. It would be better if they narrowed their focus on one race as a whole. The new trailer is okay-ish, but I wish they include more characters from the books. The one thing the series does not understand is the core message of Tolkien’s lore — a rejection of modernisation and a focus on simple living. Kevin Rodricks, 30, Bandra Will be fast-paced and action-packed I felt that they have taken quite a lot from the lore. I understand why a lot of people don’t like it, but it was okay. Tolkien’s literature is deep and detailed. You have to compromise when making an adaptation for the screen. The second season promises a lot of depth. It will be more entertaining, since the build-up is now done. The pace will be faster. The key to a good adaptation is to keep the spirit of the stories intact. I am looking forward to witnessing the rise of Sauron into this formless being. While Galadriel is an interesting character, to me, the story has always been about Sauron. Swapnil Raje, 48, Andheri Trying to be Game of Thrones Galadriel; (right) a moment from the trailer I remember renting out a CD when I moved to Delhi, and watching the movie. The same year, my sister brought me the book. I was obsessed with it. The first movies were a lot more loyal to the tone of the story. There were changes, but it is still not a bad adaptation. I put off watching The Rings of Power for the longest time, but caught up on it during a night-long binge last month. I never understood the series. It is trying to be Game of Thrones. I understand that from a production perspective, but not as a fan. While I have many complaints, I hope they do justice to Elrond in the second season. He is such a fascinating character and so important. Vivek Jha, 33, Powai Completely untrue to lore I started reading the book back in school just when the first movies came out. What caught my attention about the epic is the hope it offers. I love the movies, even though there were a few changes from Tolkien lore. I did watch the first season of The Rings of Power. I think they tried to take tidbits from the whole of The Second Age and tried to recapture the myth. Galadriel and Sauron’s tale is something that does not make sense. I will watch the second season, even though I dreaded the first; only to find out how far they stray. The only character whose story I look forward to is Gothmog, the orc with the disfigured face. Quinton Pereira, 36, Malad
18 May,2024 09:29 AM IST | Mumbai | Shriram IyengarA nine-year-old, intrigued by why there is a ‘bedsheet’ catching wind on a boat at sea, convinced her father to let her try her hands at sailing. “It was the perfect place to be with friends. In a concrete jungle like Mumbai, we were amused to find an open sea, with water splashing from all sides of the boat,” recalls Ayesha Lobo, who started coaching people when she turned 15. When she turned 23 in 2014, she founded a sailing school, Discover Sailing India, with the help of father Sunil and her sister Malvika. A moment from a previous session (right) The activity is pet-friendly With the monsoon expected to arrive next month, Lobo is busy wrapping up the last few sessions of sailing before they begin again in September. “To make these last sessions special, we have partnered with Mumbai Foodie [food community], for a sailing masterclass,” she shares. Apart from this, they will host private masterclasses for interested groups of friends or family. The masterclass, Lobo shares, is a way to give people a taste of what it is like being at sea. “People expect a tumultuous, rough sea. They ask me if it is going to be like Life of Pi or the Pirates of the Caribbean,” Lobo chuckles, “and while there will always be a risk when at sea, I tell them that this is not a movie, and the Mumbai bay is nothing like that.” School-going children learn to sail at sea She tries to touch upon all the aspects taught at length in the sailing courses, which she tells us begin with understanding the correlation between the sea, the wind and the sail. “Remember, the sail harnesses the wind, and that is how we get the momentum. Only after understanding this will you be able to know how to use the steering wheel to turn the boat,” she explains. After the group gathers at the meeting point, they take a transfer boat to the sailing boat. On the way, the trainers educate the participants about the concept of wind, currents and direction. Upon reaching, they learn how to set up a boat, pull and drop the anchor, and control steer and sail. Ayesha Lobo “The myth about sailing is that you have to be muscular to be able to do it. This sport is considered to be for strong men. Trust me, we have petite-framed trainees doing really well. In fact, nearly 80 per cent of my staff is female. The idea behind founding the school was to promote the sport among women. We wanted to create a path and fund the women at sail, because they don’t get nearly as much funding to pursue this as the men in the country,” Lobo shares. The school, apart from hosting experiences like yoga at sea and the two-hour-long masterclasses, also organises clean-up drives and participates in restoration projects. “We have courses for serious sailors, sessions for schools, for people looking for one-time-experiences, and of course, pet owners like us, who want their furry friends to be at sail,” she says. Sailing continues to be a passion and a getaway from the city for Lobo. “I urge people to try it because you will not only take back home new learnings but sailing also has the potential to relieve you from your stress. It allows you the time to breathe and think,” she signs off. Get ready to sail >> Take medication if you have motion sickness>> If you can’t swim or have anxiety, inform the instructors>> Carry drinking water to stay hydrated>> Sailing can be glamorous so dress to look cute in comfortable clothes >> Apply sunscreen and bring your biggest smile Till May 25; 7 am to 8 pmMeeting point Gateway of India. Log on to: discoversailing.in Call: 9920886114 (for slot availability and cost)
17 May,2024 12:36 PM IST | Mumbai | Devanshi DoshiUrban theatre audiences dipping their toes in regional waters usually draw their proverbial line at plays set in Hinglish. Marathi theatre, in the absence of such a hybrid tongue, has remained somewhat of a mystery to those unfamiliar with the language. A theatre festival titled Pratibimb will bring handpicked Marathi plays out of the ‘natyagruhas’ scattered in the city to the global stage at the National Centre For Performing Arts today. Rajeshri Shinde, festival director, believes the festival is a revival rather than a fresh introduction. “In the 1980s and ‘90s, NCPA would regularly host Marathi plays written by stalwarts such as PL Deshpande, who would frequent the stages here. Slowly, the shows moved out to close-knit hubs elsewhere,” she recalls. A moment from Sachin Shinde’s play Dagad Aani Maati The three-day festival will open with the first-ever presentation of Patra Patri, starring thespian Dilip Prabhavalkar in director and actor Vijay Kenkre’s adaptation of the former’s eponymous satirical book. Alongside other popular plays like Irawati Karnik’s romantic comedy Jar Tar Chi Goshta, the line-up features promising new talents like Swapnil Jadhav who will present his family drama Astitva, while the alumni of Ramnarain Ruia College’s theatre department, will present Golkonda Diamonds, an exploration of the sociocultural state of the world. We learn that seven of the eight performances at the festival will be accompanied by subtitles projected on black screens on either side of the stage. A moment from Golkonda Diamonds performed by alumni of the theatre department of Ramnarain Ruia College “We aim to present narratives not only from the usual Mumbai-Pune circles, but also from the hinterlands, where some supremely talented troupes have sprung up lately,” Shinde shares. To that end, the festival has invited Sachin Shinde’s directorial Dagad Aani Maati, which follows a young farmer’s quest to put his village on the map. “We want to show city audiences how the other side of the country lives, away from comforts and technological developments. Hopefully, it will strike a chord with Mumbai audiences,” Sachin revealed over a call from Nashik. Rajeshri Shinde For those interested in venturing beyond the stage, an acting and a set design workshop will transport participants to the backstage. The festival director elaborates, “Over the last 14 years, audiences have increasingly shown interest in the acoustics, stage set-up, and production of the plays we stage. We hope these workshops spark fresh interest for the performing arts in young minds.” ON May 17 to May 19AT NCPA, Nariman Point. LOG ON TO ncpamumbai.com ENTRY Rs 200 onwards (for individual shows)
17 May,2024 09:05 AM IST | Mumbai | Devashish KambleEarlier this month, a 24-year-old man lost his life and his friend was severely injured while jumping from a height of 120 ft into a plunge pool in Dabhosa in Palghar district. The inspector-in-charge at the nearby police station where the incident was reported, said that the water levels were low in the plunge pool and that this could have been a possible factor for the death. With the monsoon expected to arrive next month, and the trekking season in Maharashtra all set to pick up, it is important to adhere to basic safety guidelines and ask the right questions before you set out on your next adventure. Access management systems “India has no access management systems. No matter how long or short the duration of a trek is, operators must have the correct permits. This becomes a form of access management. While guidelines are in place, in certain places, there are still many gaps in the system. We must first acknowledge the gap and then work on it. If they don’t have registration, operators should not be allowed to conduct any commercial adventure travel activity,” says Vaibhav Kala, vice-president, Adventure Tour Operators Association of India (ATOAI). “If it’s an established picnic spot or a trail that the government knows is witnessing traffic, is there nobody to tell trekkers what the code of conduct needs to be? In the case of plunge pools, for example, a risk assessment has to be done to record what the water levels are and whether it is safe to dive or not. Every activity must have risk assessment and a system to authenticate, authorise, and audit access, which is largely missing,” Kala explains. Vaibhav Kala The ATOAI works closely with the industry and the governments at the central and state levels, to advocate policies, study trends and create a safe environment for participants in adventure activities across 31 verticals. They have worked with the Central Ministry of Tourism to help formulate a national strategy for adventure tourism, which will, hopefully, encompass access management for commercial operations and this will hopefully be implemented soon. Planning ahead Jaya Balakrishna, ex-Indiahikes trek leader and a passionate hiker, believes that risk management and preparing ahead is key to avoid unhappy accidents. “Assessing hazards and developing situational awareness is the first and foremost thing to do when outdoors. Most times, safety doesn’t surface in conversations regarding a trek. This doesn’t mean that safety isn’t important. But safety means “freedom from harm”— it implies a guarantee that no one can undertake, especially in the wilderness. Instead of focusing solely on safety, we should focus on the idea that, while we can’t guarantee safety in the wilderness, we can learn to manage risk and minimise the likelihood of a serious incident. You can prepare yourself to respond to these types of events by having a solid trip plan before you go,” Balakrishna points out. “Courses like Wilderness First Responder help bring awareness and the hands-on experience with mock accidents and the first aid training imparted help to those in the outdoors to survive the wilderness,” she adds. The social media trap According to Yogesh Umbre, a professional rock climber, mountaineer, and part of the rescue operation team at Shivdurga Mitra Lonavala since 2008, many accidents these days have been caused because trekkers are trying to impress their social media followers. “In the recent past, we have seen incidents where trekkers deliberately take more risks to get more viewership and likes on their social media content. They also seem to lose concentration and focus all their attention on getting the perfect selfies. If the same attention was paid to safety, many accidents could have been avoided. Some trekkers follow other ‘influencers’ and set off on a trek without much knowledge about the place. They head to a destination without preparation, because it looks good and pay no attention to details,” Umbre warns. Seasoned trekkers and expert guides share their safety checklists: You come first Know yourself. It’s always good to fairly assess your capabilities before signing up for an adventure. This includes checking with your doctor about medical conditions. Don’t push yourself to do something that you are not prepared for, physically or mentally. >> Answer some vital questions: does the trek require preparation beforehand? What’s the best packing list for that terrain/weather? Have you been in that environment before and if not, what is the best way to adapt? >> “There is no such thing as bad weather, only bad gear”, is a motto I swear by. It’s always good to have high-quality gear that will protect you in adverse weather and terrain. >> Learn basic outdoor skills — consuming enough energy by ensuring enough carbs and protein intake, going slow and steady, navigation skills, and setting up camp before sunset are some of the key skills. Shikha Tripathi, travel writer and founder, Snowfox Escapes Attention to detail >> Do thorough research about the place you are heading to. Secure details about water resources, camping spots and cliffs. Be aware of the entry and exit points. >> Avoid venturing alone; taking a local guide is helpful. >> Keep track of the time. Begin and end early. >> Download offline maps if available (Gaia, Wikiloc, Strava are some good apps to install) >> For forest and jungle trails, learn about its wildlife and their movement beforehand. Also, forest permissions/permits are a must. Meghna Kushalappa, founder, Treks n Tales Group decisions >> If you’re climbing high peaks, be aware of the timing of afternoon thunderstorms. If you’re heading for a hike, study trail conditions so you can plan ahead for a route that’s muddy or slippery. >> Discuss expectations as a team. It’s easy to assume that you and your friends have similar expectations and training, or that you think about risk in the same way. In reality, you are likely to find important differences that you may need to consider. >> In group treks, check if everyone understands the plan and can implement it. If only one person has first-aid training, and that person gets injured, what’s your back-up? It is also a great time to check your first-aid kit to make sure your supplies are well-stocked. Jaya Balakrishna, professional trekker and group leader When it rains >> It’s a common sight in the monsoon to see people wearing sandals and rubber chappals while trekking in the Sahyadris. This can be dangerous. Proper clothing and shoes play an important role in ensuring safety on treks. >> Avoid the selfie obsession while trekking. Take photos while resting or camping but keep both hands free while climbing. >> Carry a small laminated note with emergency contact details During day treks, share your live location with a friend or family member who isn’t on the trek with you. >> Almost all lakes, especially near Pune and Mumbai, are strictly no-swimming zones because most of them are backwaters of dams and hence, have undercurrents. Do not swim in any water body in the monsoon. >> Don’t disturb wildlife, especially snakes during forest trails. Most people aren’t aware of the difference between a non-venomous rat snake and a highly venomous Russell’s viper. >> Most forts have a main route with a staircase leading up; many don’t, and those are best avoided. >> Carry at least 4 litres of water in the summer Saptarishi Bhattacharya, seasoned trekking and wildlife enthusiast Local knowledge is key Members of the Shivdurga Mitra Lonavala participate in a rescue training session at Chhatrapati Sambhaji Nagar >> Study weather conditions/predictions before a trip. Trained climbers avoid summertime in Maharashtra due to severe heat. Honeybees are more active and aggressive in summer, especially during treks around forts. >> Carry a first-aid kit, but also have knowledge of how to use it. >> Seek help of local villagers as they are familiar with the terrain, can warn you of risks and help during rescues. Carry contact details of rescue teams. >> Always carry a working SIM card; be sure of which network works best in that region. >> For waterbodies, one must know basic swimming. Non-swimmers should strictly avoid diving and swimming. Collect data about water depth, currents and tides. Yogesh Umbre, professional climber and rescue expert Sign up for these treks >> Wander the night Take a trip through the magical fort of Harihar and its history on this night and day trek.ON May 18; 9.30 pm MEETING POINT CSMT Station. LOG ON TO bhatakna.comCOST Rs 499 onwards >> Delight in natureA nature lover’s favourite, the Bhimashankar sanctuary is filled with majestic hikes.ON June 15MEETING POINT Neral station. LOG ON TO hikerwolf.com COST Rs 1,999 onwards >> Walk in the clouds End the weekend amidst the clouds with a trek to Kalsubai, the highest point in the Sahyadris. ON May 18 and 25MEETING POINT Kasara Railway Station.CALL 8799856476 LOG ON TO maharashtragadkille.com COST Rs 1,299 (includes transport and accommodation) >> Dive in for funJoin experienced trekkers as they set off for an adventure to the Kal Mandavi water fall to bring the summer to a close. ON May 19 Meeting Point Pritam Dhaba, Dadar East. LOG ON TO adventuregeek.in CALL 9004675388COST Rs 1,199 onwards Compiled by Shriram Iyengar and Devashish Kamble
16 May,2024 02:09 PM IST | Mumbai | Suprita MitterThursdayFeel the colours Start your weekend with a dash of colour at this healing session where you will use your bare hands as tools to understand brain-hand coordination.Time 2.30 pmAT Khar West (location revealed on confirmation). Log on to insider.in Cost Rs 1,350 (including equipment) FridayJoin the revolution Pic courtesy/Youtube Join fellow eco-warriors to understand the dangers of the industrial seed corporations through cinema in The Seeds of Vandana Shiva. Time 7.30 amAT Harkat Studios, Versova, Andheri West. Log on to townscript.comCost Rs 250 onwards Craft your future Spend the weekend with friends, as you turn the clock back to design creative vision boards to set meaningful goals for your future.Time 6 pmAt Greenr Cafe, Bhulabhai Desai Marg, Cumballa Hill. Log on to insider.inCost Rs 1,099 onwards SaturdayLEGO of all worries Pics Courtesy/Instagram Give your child a chance to explore their imagination this weekend as Legoland arrives in the suburb of Thane. AGE GROUP Four and aboveTILL May 26; 11 am onwardsAt Viviana Mall, Eastern Express Highway, next to Jupiter hospital, Thane West.Log on to in.bookmyshow.comCOST Rs 299 onwards Laugh with satirists The complex structures of caste, oppression, poverty and absurdity emerge through the tale of a garlic seller. Time: 6 pm; 8.30 pmAt Veda Factory, Four Bungalows, Andheri West. Call 9958624306Log on to in.bookmyshow.comCost Rs 300 onwards SundayCelebrate a fiesta Kick-start your Sunday with a burst of energy with the flavours from Mexico. From epic recipes such as chipotle tiger prawns and lamb chili chilaquiles (below) paired with the magic of cocktails like the refresco de flor. Time 12 pm to 4 pm At Pompa, Linking Road, Bandra West. Call 9594131256 Read with the author Join Geetha K and Philip George (right) as they take readers on a trip through George’s autobiography, Racket Boy.Time 11.30 amAt Iteeha Coffee, behind Famous Studio, Mahalaxmi West. Log on to @paperbacktalksENTRY (registration mandatory)
16 May,2024 09:23 AM IST | Mumbai | Shriram IyengarIn the 1970s, Sandeep Manchekar was your typical schoolboy exploring suburban life in a quiet neighbourhood of Goregaon. If one thing set Manchekar apart; it was his unconventional passion for pottery, one that he kindled by moulding tiny pots at the age of 10. At Studio White & Gray in Byculla this weekend, you might catch glimpses of the young, enthusiastic boy in the now 56-year-old ceramic arts veteran, as he plays with fire to introduce the city to Raku, an ancient, complex, and high-stakes Japanese form of pottery. Manchekar recalls his first tryst with Raku in 1989, fresh out of Sir JJ School of Art where he pursued a diploma in arts and ceramics. Ullas Karde, a veteran ceramic artist from Bengaluru was visiting Kumbharwada, the potters’ cluster in Dharavi, to demonstrate Raku techniques. “I was drawn to the complexities and intricate designs that emerged from the process. I wanted to master it.” A traditional Japanese mask created using the Raku techniques Raku, however, is not a passion suited for the faint hearted. Manchekar spent the next two decades learning the art through extensive reading and practical sessions senior ceramic artists like Nirmala Patwardhan. “Raku kilns can reach temperatures of 1,000-degree Celsius within an hour during the firing process. Pulling them out to cool them, avoiding breakages, is the acid test of a ceramic artist. It is only by experience and practice that you ace the timing, and handling techniques,” he reveals. Through the workshops beginning this weekend, Manchekar will aim to share his learnings from the past 30 years with participants in the studio’s safe, controlled environment. “The spontaneity of the art form keeps me coming back, and makes Raku stand out from anything else I have ever practised,” remarks Manchekar over a phone call from his studio in Indapur in Pune district, where he currently resides along with his creations. This spontaneity, we learn, comes from a process called reduction that uses combustible materials like saw dust and newspapers to cool down the ceramics. “No matter how good you get at predicting these designs with time, the process will always surprise you with unique patterns,” he explains. Raku cups Leading up to the workshops where participants will be guided in bringing the art form to life from scratch, the artiste gives us a glimpse of what the rewards of this laborious task look like. “Tiny cracks often appear on the clay and the glaze as a result of the rapid heating and cooling effect. These cracks complement the unruly designs, and what you have is a Raku ware, only one of its kind,” Manchekar shares. For Gourmoni Das, multimedia artist and co-founder of the studio, the workshop marks another checkpoint on his way to introduce novel practices to the city’s small, but steadily growing community of enthusiasts. “Experienced veterans in the arts, like Manchekar, are ready to share their insights. We strive to provide them the right platform and bridge the gap between them and the learners,” he elaborates. ON May 18,19 and 25; 10 am and 2 pmAT Studio White & Gray, The Great Eastern Mill, Byculla East. LOG ON TO @studio_whiteandgray COST Revealed on request
16 May,2024 09:20 AM IST | Mumbai | Devashish KambleADVERTISEMENT
