There are few things that capture the feel of the Maximum City like its attitude. In a city constantly defined by its hustle, it can surprise you with sassy gems of wisdom wrapped in humour. We thought the collection of T-shirts from the aptly titled Tees of Bombay is a perfect example of this self-effacing humour. If you are looking for designs that are simple, subtle, but as crisp as the fried remnants of a vada pav, the Bombay Classics might be your pick. From their takes on the rail hooks to the tongue-in-cheek ‘Nahi Jayega’ anthem of our city rickshaw wallahs, the collection offers something for everyone. What’s more is that the T-shirts are categorised according to the city’s neighbourhoods — from IC Colony to Bandra, Dadar to Mira Road, and South Mumbai. LOG ON TO teesofbombay.inCOST Rs 699 onwards
18 December,2025 09:42 AM IST | Mumbai | Shriram IyengarHeights of thrill Spend the festive weekend nestled at Prabalmachi in the Sahyadris, if you prefer adventure over partying. Enjoy easy treks, winter sunsets, starlit bonfire evenings with music, and hearty traditional fare shared in good company.ON December 20, 2025 to June 13 2026; 5 pm onwardsMEETING POINT Panvel station (Call for platform details)LOG ON TO in.bookmyshow.comCALL 8850258278COST Rs 899 Recharge zone Pic courtesy/Off the grid glamps Step off the grid and settle into an escape surrounded by nature. Start your days with yoga or journalling and end your evenings with hot cocoa, music, and relaxed do-it-yourself barbecues and brownie making experiences along with open jamming sessions, karaoke nights, and special movie screenings as well. ON December 20 to 31; 2 pm onwardsAT Adoshi Dam, Mandad Atkargaon, Khopoli. LOG ON TO offthegridglamps.comEntry Rs 3200 By the woods Pics courtesy/@bhatakna Celebrate the Christmas holidays with a laid-back lakeside camping getaway in Igatpuri. This picturesque site is perfect for comforting evenings by the campfire with soft music; you can also enjoy swimming in the lake (with life jackets, of course) for those who prefer a dash of adrenaline.ON Every weekend; 12.33 pm Meeting point Kasara railway station. (details revealed on registration)LOG ON TO bhatakna.comEntry Rs 899 Tranquil getaway Pics courtesy/saffronstays.com Head to this peaceful destination with Saffron Stays and enjoy the picturesque Mulshi Dam and the Sahyadris. You’ll be welcomed by a fully decorated Christmas tree.TILL December 31, 10 am onwardsAT Satori Mulshi, Village Ahirwadi-Pimpri, Pune. LOG ON TO saffronstays.comEntry Rs 9000 Tents by the shores Pic courtesy/@tentbythebay Get into slow-motion mode at a beachside camping escape at Tent by the Bay, located on Revdanda Beach, Alibaug. Enjoy bonfire nights under coconut palms. Evenings come alive with music, barbecues, and movie screenings.ON December 20, 2025 till year end; 4 pm onwardsAT Vaidya Wadi, Revdanda Fort, Portuguese Church, Alibaug. LOG ON TO in.bookmyshow.comEntry Rs 600 onwards Lake-side chill Pic courtesy/ @thelakestory_uksan The Lake Story is a quiet lakeside escape where you can hope to unwind with family, friends, pets, or if you prefer a solo holiday. Spend relaxed days by the water, choose between private or shared camping spaces, and enjoy calm evenings away from the hustle-bustle of the city. ON Every weekend; 1 pm onwardsAT The Lake story, Uksan Road, Kamshet, Lonavala. LOG ON TO thelakestory.comEntry Rs 850 (children) and Rs 1499 (adults)
18 December,2025 09:34 AM IST | Mumbai | Rumani GabhareIf you live with a furry friend, read this aloud at your own risk: Your pets are in for some tasty t-r-e-a-t-s at the Christmas dinner table this year. From ‘pupcakes’ to pet-friendly gingerbread cookies and ice cream, the city has laid out an indulgent spread. REPRESENTATION PIC/ISTOCK Inspired by her seven-year-old beagle Pacho, who was severely allergic to store-bought treats, Gaargi Prehar has been whipping up pet-friendly treats since 2019 at her bakery, Puplords in Lokhandwala. Here are two simple no-sugar, gluten-free, and guilt-free recipes from her cookbook. Coconut banana snowballs INGREDIENTS>> 1 ripe banana>> 1/2 cup unsweetened desiccated coconut>> 2-3 tbsp plain, unsweetened dog-safe yogurt (for coating) METHODMash the banana until smooth. Mix in the desiccated coconut to form a soft dough. Roll into mini balls. Lightly roll each ball in yogurt to coat. Re-roll the yogurt-coated balls in desiccated coconut to recoat. Chill for one to two hours to set. Gingerbread cookie Pics Courtesy/GaarGi Prehar, PUPLORDS INGREDIENTS>> 1/2 cup oat flour>> 1/4 cup pumpkin puree or unsweetened apple sauce>> 1 tsp unsweetened peanut butter (xylitol-free)>> 1/4 tsp ginger powder>> 1/4 tsp cinnamon>> 1-2 tsp water (if needed) METHODPreheat the oven to 160°C. Mix pumpkin/apple sauce, peanut butter, ginger, and cinnamon. Add oat flour and mix into a soft dough. Add water only if the dough feels dry. Roll to 1/2-inch thickness. Cut into small shapes, or use a gingerbread man-shaped mould. Place on a lined tray. Bake for 15 to 18 minutes until firm. Cool completely before serving. Vet knows best Dr Akshay Shah City veterinarian Dr Akshay Shah warns pet parents to keep any treats with these ingredients out of reach:>> Chocolate: Contains theobromine and causes vomiting, tremors, seizures, cardiac issues>> Grapes and raisins: May cause acute kidney failure>> Onion and garlic: Can damage red blood cells leading to anaemia>> Xylitol: A sugar-free sweetener, can cause sudden drop in blood sugar and liver failure>> Alcohol: Consumption can be fatal Canine-happy treats PIC COURTESY/ Frostreats >> Cool treats Frostreats’ Mango, Blueberry, Cookie and Cream or Vanilla flavoured sugar-free lactose-free ice-cream options make it a safe and indulgent treat.LOG ON TO frostreats.comCOST Rs 140 (125 ml cup) >> Healthy bites PIC COURTESY/APETTERLIFE A Petter Life’s Christmas cupcakes might look indulgent, but they pack a punch of protein with paneer and chicken. This kitchen uses natural pigments made from beetroot, spirulina and turmeric.LOG ON TO apetterlife.inCOST Rs 325 onwards (2 pieces) >> Cake cravings Go all out, and get a customised Christmas cake for your four-legged companion. Bombay Barkers offers salt-free, sugar-free, and all-natural cakes.CALL 9920816671COST Revealed on request
18 December,2025 09:29 AM IST | Mumbai | Devashish KambleThursdayPlay that song, DJ Be a part of a hands-on workshop by Hardik Dave (below) and learn how to be a Disc Jockey on your laptop like a complete pro.TIME 8.30 pmAT The DJ HD Blues Global Music Lessons, Kasam Baug, Malad East. LOG ON TO in.bookmyshow.comENTRY Rs 2499 FridayFilm break Pic Courtesy/fillum.in Join the 15th Short Film Marathon and explore movies like The Journey by Hitesh Agarwal, Cheeni Kum Hai by Rajat Verma, Dhumil by Manoj Shinde, and Alisha by Sajal Kumar . TIME 6 pmAT Artisan Coterie, Chikuwadi, Malad West. LOG ON TO fillum.inENTRY Rs 200 SaturdayPink parade A flamingo sighted in Mulund last year. FILE PIC/SHADAB KHAN Take a step back and observe the early flamingos before the full migration at the Airoli Creek, which is their winter home.TIME 7 am onwardsAT Flamingo Safari meeting point, Mulund East. LOG ON TO in.bookmyshow.comEntry Rs 499 Discover the artist Pic Courtesy/sarmaya arts foundation Discover the technique of printmaking with this hands-on workshop introduction to relief printmaking using a linocut block.Time 11 am to 2 pmAT Sarmaya Arts Foundation, Kala Ghoda, Fort. LOG ON TO urbanaut.appENTRY Rs 2360 Coast along Pic Courtesy/@indokayakjuhu Experience the thrill of kayaking along Juhu’s scenic shoreline to enjoy the perfect sunset or sunrise.TIME 5.30 am to 11.30 am and 3 pm to 5.30 pm on weekdays, and 5.30 am to 5.30 pm on weekendsAT near YMCA, Juhu Beach, Santacruz West. LOG ON TO @indokayakjuhuENTRY Rs 1200 onwards SundayTiny hands create art Representation pic/istock Let little hands and big imaginations come together to create and colour Christmas frames and celebrate the magic of the season at Deck the Frames, an art workshop. TIME 11.30 am to 1 pm AT Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya Children’s Museum, Kala Ghoda, Fort. LOG ON TO @csmvsmumbaiENTRY MuseumEntry fees apply Warmth for brunch Pic courtesy/@folk.kalaghoda Enjoy home-style Christmas food from Goa and Kerala at a brunch hosted by SoBo haunt, Folk and regional fare favourite, Aiyo Patrao.TIME 11 am to 2 pmAT Folk, Maharashtra Chambers Lane, Kala Ghoda, Fort. LOG ON TO @folk.kalaghodaCOST Rs 3000 (exclusive of taxes)
18 December,2025 09:27 AM IST | Mumbai | Rumani GabhareMiniature sets Choose from two 12-piece crib sets of an adorably-depicted Nativity scene, available in brown and green shades, as well as pure white, effectively evoking the winter vibes.AT Twinkle-The Gifts Gallore, St Peter’s Road, Ranwar, Bandra West. Time 10 am to 10 pmCall 9892563163 Cost Rs 1200 Sizes for all Pic courtesy/raave’s evergreen Another must-visit store in Bandra, this haunt offers a range of cribs, with slight colour variations; some come in earthy tones, while ones with a white colour scheme are sure to brighten up your room.AT Raave’s Evergreen, Hill Road, Bandra West.Time 10 am to 10 pmCall 8015432248Cost Rs 8050 (Eight- inch crib) More the merrier Pic courtesy/mamtadecoration.in Stop by or order online from this outlet selling decorative items in the busy lanes of Zaveri Bazaar. You can pick their multi-coloured Christmas Nativity crib set of six inches. Also check out stalls inside Crawford Market, which stock ready-to-assemble cribs to suit every kind of home.AT Mamta Decoration, Zaveri Bazaar, Kalbadevi. Time 10 am to 9 pmLog on to mamtadecoration.inCall 8949325995 Cost Rs 450 Handmade gems Pic courtesy/jonasworks.in This artisanal studio crafts a variety of options. Don’t forget to check out their gorgeous, snow-white eight-inch crib set, depicting Mother Mary with baby Jesus.AT Jonas Works, Vasai West. Time 9 am to 8 pm Log on to jonasworks.inCost Rs 4999 (Eight-inch crib set) Select away Pic courtesy/@paulineborivali Bring home a special Nativity set from this Borivli outlet. It offers different shades, and intricate figurines. AT Pauline Books and Media Centre, Swami Vivekananda Road, Borivli West.Time 10 am to 7 pmLog on to @paulineborivali Christmas magic Pic courtesy/@divinecreation_india A perfect place to order your Nativity crib, this Andheri manufacturer sells five-inch and 15-piece sets.AT Divine Creation, Shram Safalya Society, Tilak Nagar, Andheri East.Time 9 am to 12 amCall 9820821985Cost Rs 3500 Old favourite Pic courtesy/something special This haunt has ready-to-assemble crib statues on sale, as well as charming crib sets with in-built light and musical systems, to set the festive mood in your home.AT Something Special, Hill Road, Bandra West. TIME 10 am to 8.30 pmCALL 9819430211COST Rs 6250 (crib set with light and sound) Santa’s army Check out this store that offers a range of festive decorations, and Nativity crib sets to choose from.AT Brotherzzz Store, Lopes Villa, Vasai West. Log on to @brotherzzz_stores Call 9969712725 Choices galore Pic courtesy/ @stpaulspublications You will be spoilt for choice at this one-stop shop. Apart from Christmas trees and wreaths, their crib sets come in varying sizes.AT St Paul Book and Art Centre, 24th Road, Bandra West. Time 9 am to 7 pm Call 9619463430 Cost Rs 1450 onwards E-Platforms Pic courtesy/livingfaith.in Recreate the auspicious vibe of Christmas in your home with this classic crib set.LOG ON TO livingfaith.inCOST Rs 5500 (eight-inch crib set) Pic courtesy/themomstore.in This eye-catching set depicting the beauty of the Nativity scene is a must-have this season, featuring figurines in a stable, with hand-painted detailing.LOG ON TO artycraftz.comCOST Rs 3135 This rustic, hand-painted set showcasing the Holy Family is sure to fill your home with warmth and joy. LOG ON TO themomstore.in COST Rs 2999
17 December,2025 09:25 AM IST | Mumbai | Trisha GhoshSouth Mumbai Dig in with gusto Prep for a large dinner from choice savouries ranging from a full-blown Christmas Turkey to Christmas Pudding (below), Honey Glazed Ham and Lobster Thermidor for your seasonal binge.TILL January 4; 12 pm to 11.45 pmAT Gallops Restaurant, Mahalaxmi Race Course, Mahalaxmi.CALL 8591093010 Brunch it up Pic Courtesy/Hotel Marine Plaza Indulgent, fun, and filling, this Christmas Eve brunch might entice you to break your festive season diet records. Forget calorie counting for once.ON December 24; 12.30 pm (brunch), 7.30 pm (dinner)AT Hotel Marine Plaza, Marine Drive, Marine Lines. CALL 9152076421 Swish it with style Pic Courtesy/8ish If you are looking to up your ante this season, try out the aptly titled, Hotter Than Your Xmas cognac (below), or the mischievous Mrs Claus’ Secret (above) from this new favourite haunt.TILL December 31; 5.30 pm to 1.30 am AT 8ish, Ground Floor, Express Towers, Ramnath Goenka Marg, Nariman Point.CALL 9457118888COST Rs 3500 (for two, with alcohol) Dessert hunt The season is incomplete without something sweet to savour. Head over to Colaba for a taste of Galette de Rois, and wash it down with some mulled wine simmered with cinnamon and star anise.TILL December 31AT The Table, Kalapesi Trust Building, Apollo Bunder, Colaba.CALL 7045111880 Eastern suburbs For a cosy bite You might get a little warm with nostalgia as this brunch comes with the delight of cosy, familiar flavours like the slow-braised Lamb Chilli (above) or Ratatouille Crepes to remind you of home.ON December 24 and 25AT Le Café, near Natraj Cinema, Chembur East. CALL 67099988 Carve it up Sharpen your knives as this brunch and dinner comes with a complete Carving Turkey and a Seabass Kabayaki Carving Station. Make sure your knife skills are top-notch enough for the task.ON December 25; 12.30 pm to 4 pmAT Lake View Café, The Westin, Powai. CALL 8657956990 COST Rs 4250 onwards (inclusive of buffet) Lift your spirits Say cheers with this seasonal round-up that comes with five specially curated seasonal drinks that end the year on a high.FROM December 17 to 31; 12 pm to 1.30 amAT Foo, Delphi Building, Hiranandani Gardens, Powai; also at BKC, Andheri.CALL 9323333315 Fusion festivities You cannot go wrong with this festive special menu, featuring Blue Pea Rice Cheese Balls, Barbecue Chicken Pops, Red Wine Grilled Chicken, and fusion desserts including Berry Muffins and a rich Gajar Halwa Cheesecake (below).TILL December 30AT 24K Kraft Brewzz, R City Mall, Amrut Nagar, Ghatkopar West (also at Seawoods Mall, Nerul).CALL 9152612424 Also check out Syrian Christian specials Pic Courtesy/Nair on Fire This is a rare chance to tuck into authentic Syrian Christian fare from Kerala including Varkala Squid Fry, Whole Stuffed Chicken Roast, as well as Angamaly Pork Fry.FROM December 20 to 28AT Nair On FireCALL 9324059522 Traditional tastes This old haunt has served up traditional Christmas fare for generations. Hurry up before they run out of their usual special roasts.TILL December 25AT Glamour Building, Colaba Causeway, Colaba.CALL 9224269773 (pre-orders only) Navi Mumbai and outskirts Sail into Christmas Pic courtesy/@sailorscafebelapur Soak in the Christmas spirit with the epic Roast Chicken (above) for a wholesome feast. Make sure you pre-order as this might sell quickly.FROM December 17 to 31; 11 am onwards AT Sailors’ Cafe, Sector 15, CBD Belapur. LOG ON TO @sailorscafebelapur CALL 9137686834 COST Rs 1499 Season to shop From Christmas Bazaars, to a children’s fair as well as dinner and brunch to keep you happy, this Karjat venue offers a range of celebrations.FROM December 25 to 28; 11 am to 8 pmAT Saltt Restaurant and Bar, Oleander Farms, Karjat.CALL 8591700195 Christmas pit-stop Make this Christmas unforgettable with this buffet spread at a quick Lonavala getaway. ON December 24 and 25; 11.30 am and 7 pm onwardsAT The Orchid, Old Mumbai-Pune Highway, Valvan, Lonavala. CALL 8766631291COST Rs 1499 (for adults); Rs 699 (for kids) Cocktails in the hills Pic courtesy/@angloindiancafe Sip on holiday cocktails and roasted delicacies at this scenic café whose menu offers some inspiration from the Anglo Indian community.TILL January 15; 10.30 am onwardsAT Anglo Indian Cafe, Della Enclave, Kune Village, Khandala, Lonavala. LOG ON TO @angloindiancafe CALL 9359820179 COST Rs 650 onwards Central Mumbai Delish feast Pic Courtesy/Milagro From artisanal bread and cheese, to a slow-braised lamb leg and lamb pie, this restaurant is upping its buffet game for the season.ON December 24, 25 and 31; 12.30 pm and 2.30 pm onwards AT Milagro, Swatantryaveer Savarkar Road, Prabhadevi.LOG ON TO @milagromumbaiCALL 9167779102COST Rs 1799 onwards Grannies’ special Pic Courtesy/Brunch and Cake If you tire of the grand celebrations, take the nostalgia route with this special menu that comes straight from grandma’s kitchen. Savour from hearty egg dishes to delicious blueberry cheese cake and strawberry tart (below); and take home an advent calendar.TILL December 31; 7.30 am to 11 pmAT Brunch and Cake, G4 Raheja Altimus, Lower Parel.CALL 8657500061COST Rs 1500 (for two) Western suburbs Slow-cooked fervour Pic Courtesy/Olive bar and Kitchen Nothing says Christmas like taking time to prepare dishes. This Bandra favourite offers a special seasonal Three-Day Lamb cooked slowly over three days, and served with a rich 48-hour lamb jus.TIll December 31; 12 pm to 1.30 amAT Olive Bar and Kitchen, Union Park, Bandra West.CALL 7208478228COST Rs 2500 onwards Sweet delights Pic courtesy/Veronica’s Step into a wonderland of sweet treats with this limited-edition menu, featuring Rudolph’s Chocolate Mousse Roll (right), a Matcha Cheesecake Cookie, and crunchy Salted Caramel Tim Tams. Drinks include options from Mulled Wine to a Gingerbread Cookie Latte.TILL December 25AT Veronica’s, Waroda Road, Ranwar, Bandra West.CALL 9372981697COST R250 onwards (Christmas bakes); Rs 320 onwards (beverages) European delights Pic Courtesy/Que Sera Sera Try a European brunch this festive season with an offering that includes the delicious Holly Jolly Pork Chops to a Snowfall Berry Pavlova Trifle or Mrs Santa’s Blushing Welcome (left) for your palate.ON December 24, 25 and December 31 (till January 10); 9 am to 1 amAT Que Sera Sera, Vastu Lane, Shastri Nagar, Andheri West.CALL 7700004322 Humble spread Pic courtesy/Aurea Cafe Don’t miss the simplicity of this café offering a special sandwich spread for Christmas, and beverages such as Pumpkin Spiced Latte and a Mixberry Smoothie.TILL January 10AT Aurea Cafe, Kalpataru Avenue, Akurli Industry Estate, Kandivli East.CALL 8655721926 Sober Christmas Enjoy the season’s best dishes and drinks but with a PG13 twist offering mocktails like Dark Santa Melt and mouth melting desserts including a Christmas-themed Strawberry Tiramisu. TILL December 31; 10.30 am to 11.45 pmAT Cafe Pibatie, Shop number 1, Shimpoli Road, Borivli West. LOG ON TO @cafepibatieCALL 7977181838COST Rs 310 onwards COST Rs 175 (sandwiches) Celebrations on a plate Pick from a decadent selection of menus from the crispy Butter Garlic Crab Croquettes, to the slow-cooked Confit Duck Leg Caramelle Pasta (left) to top your neighbour’s Christmas Eve lunch.ON December 24, 25, 31 and January 1AT La Panthera, Ground Floor, G Block, BKC.CALL 8000909056 Yuletide fun Sip on the Winter Warming Wine (below), or dig into the carefully crafted Chef’s Yule Log to make your seasonal brunch more entertaining.TILL December 31; 11 am to 1.30 am AT Tattva Bar and Cafe, Redpine, Peninsula Hotel, Marol, Andheri West. CALL 6359182279 COST Rs 2000 (for two) Pack of truffles Pic courtesy/La Loca Maria This Bandra favourite offers a winter menu that highlights the exotic La Trufa Negra or Black Winter Truffle with main courses, and desserts too.FROM December 16 onwards; 12 pm to 3.30 pm, 7 pm to 1 amAT La Loca Maria, Fatima Villa, Pali Hill, Bandra West.CALL 9324404335 Feast time Christmas specials at this outlet include the special Snow Man Mocktail, Roast Turkey, and vegetarian and non-vegetarian sizzlers, among other specials.TILL January 2; 12 pm to 12.30 am AT Jugheads: The Unrestaurant/Northern Tadka Next, 6th Floor, Thakur Cinema Mall, Thakur Village, Kandivli East. CALL 8356829522
16 December,2025 09:11 AM IST | Mumbai | Shriram Iyengar | Trisha GhoshIf you are a fan of Western Classical music, you might want to begin 2026 not with a bang, but with soulful harmonies. Iconic conductor Zubin Mehta turns 90 on April 29, 2026, and the Mehli Mehta Music Foundation (MMMF) will host two concerts in his honour for Mumbai’s Western Classical music aficionados, in honour of this milestone. Lang Lang. Pics courtesy/@langlangpiano, patric leo, @pinkyzukerman Israeli-American violinist and violist Pinchas Zukerman will take centre stage with his fiddle on the first evening. Renowned for his musical craftsmanship, Zukerman is a special guest, with years of collaborations with Mehta. Performing the night after Zukerman, is Chinese pianist Lang Lang, who was mentored by the expressive conductor. Both musicians will be joined by the Belgrade Philharmonic Orchestra, in their Mumbai debut. Considered a leading orchestra in Europe, the group is a crucial part of Mehta’s journey, having been part of one of Mehta’s first few professional performances in 1958. “We feel very privileged to celebrate [Zubin’s] 90th birthday with the orchestra and two extraordinary soloists — it can’t get better than this!” remarks Mehroo Jeejeebhoy, founder, MMMF. Pinchas Zukerman The programme on the first night comprises Romanian Folk Dances by Bela Bartok, performed by students of the foundation, Violin Concerto No. 5 by Mozart, and Symphony No. 3 “Eroica” by Beethoven. The second night features Lang Lang executing Mozart’s Overture to The Marriage of Figaro, along with Beethoven’s Piano Concerto No. 5 “Emperor” and Symphony No. 7. ON January 15 and 16; 6.30 pmAT NCPA, NCPA Marg, Nariman Point. LOG ON TO in.bookmyshow.com (Box Office opens today)ENTRY Rs 2000 onwards
15 December,2025 09:31 AM IST | Mumbai | Trisha GhoshThe Secret Dreamworld of a Shopaholic: SOPHIE Kinsella is best known for her first novel in the Shopaholic series, later adapted into a film, Confessions of a Shopaholic (2009), starring Isla Fisher and Hugh Darcy. The protagonist Rebecca (Becky) Bloomwood is a journalist and advises her readers on financial matters. Ironically, she has trouble managing her own shopping addiction. Her parents advise her to save money, or try to earn more, but she fails at both miserably. When her bank manager tries to get in touch with her, she ignores his calls. Can Becky learn her lesson and recover from her addiction? A scene from the film, Confessions of a Shopaholic The Burnout: Sasha Worth experiences burnout as the director of special promotions at a young company. She is ready to consider becoming a nun, if that’s what it takes to get away from answering emails with exclamations that mark urgency. To recuperate from stress, her mum suggests that she take a break and stay at a hotel along the Rilston Bay, a place she fondly remembers frequenting during her childhood. She packs her bags, desperate to feel the sea air. When she arrives at the beach, she finds out she’s not alone, but in the presence of a stranger, Finn. A series of mysterious messages brings them closer. Twenties Girl: The ghost of Lara Linton’s great aunt Sadie comes visiting, urging the 27-year-old to find her missing necklace for her. The great niece sets on an adventure to fulfil her late great aunt’s request. She unearths some family secrets, learns about a forgotten love story, and develops a close bond with Sadie, who grew up in the 1920s. Together, they hatch impish plans, like bugging Lara’s ex-boyfriend’s table and finding out what goes on in meeting rooms. Sophie Kinsella The Undomestic Goddess: Samantha Sweeting works as an attorney in London. She has made a huge mistake at work, and is suffering from a breakdown. Embarrassed, she walks out of her workplace to the Paddington station and boards a train to an unfamiliar destination. When she stops by a manor to ask for directions, she is mistaken for a housekeeper who was scheduled to interview for employment. Having no experience at the role, she tries to make the best of the situation, and begins learning the necessary housekeeping skills. In the process, she also finds love. Available All titles at leading bookstores and e-stores
15 December,2025 09:29 AM IST | Mumbai | Nandini VarmaThe day before a child’s chemotherapy is difficult for a parent. Your world shrinks, and you can only think about tomorrow,” says Shyama Kaviratane. In a city where every square foot comes with a premium, that waiting often plays out on the streets for parents of children with cancer. Co-founder of St Jude ChildCare Centres alongside Nihal Kaviratane, Shyama has seen it up close. Nearly two decades and 68 centres after the duo first saw families camping outside Tata Memorial Hospital in Parel, a new centre opened in Wadala late last month. Shyama Kaviratane (in pink) inaugurates the new Wadala centre According to the Tata Memorial Hospital’s 2024 report, there was a 12 per cent increase in diagnostic investigations, leading to a total of 26,000 admissions. “With no safe and clean place to call home, families sometimes abandon treatment prematurely,” reveals Kaviratane, who is now based in Singapore. Feels like home The centres host compact rooms or ‘units’ that are designed to replicate community living and foster a sense of equality among its temporary residents. “We have stuck by the original layout of the units ever since we opened our first centre in Parel in 2006. The rooms offer basic accommodation, sans fancy installations. The only change, if any, is that we now have charging points for mobile phones. Children seem to love their screens,” Kaviratane chuckles. The centres host identical compact units to promote a sense of equality With a common kitchen and an activity area in place, the families naturally bond over their shared emotions, we learn. “Our cooking hours are limited, lest mothers fall back into the habit of practically spending the day in the kitchen. We actively encourage the fathers to take up kitchen duties as well. Over time, we noticed families sharing meals with each other. Testing times can be a great reminder of human values,” Kaviratane adds. Season of giving A resident with his art canvas. PICS COURTESY/ST JUDE CHILDCARE CENTRE With centres across 13 cities now, there’s always room for kindness, the co-founder reminds us. This Christmas, the centres offer packages such as Snowflake Wishes, Support Stocking, Candy Cane Ride and Santa’s Pantry to lend a helping hand. Kaviratane points out that as a blanket policy, the centres do not accept donations in physical cash. Those keen, can choose from the packages that provide well balanced meals, transport to the hospital, and educational support. A family attends a counselling session at the centre Many, like ‘Judian’ Sanika Jadhav will be looking back at their journey this season of giving. A leukaemia patient who walked through the doors of the Parel centre in 2012, Jadhav is now pursuing a Masters in Analytical Chemistry and hopes to enrol into a PhD programme soon. Many Judians who have accomplished their dreams often return to take young residents under their wing, Kaviratane reveals. Outside the box Children pore over a storybook Each centre is home to families of children under the age of 15. Between trips to the hospital, the families spend at least an hour in counselling, or practising some form of art. “Art is an inseparable part of every child’s life. We cannot let a cancer diagnosis steal that joy from them. Our music, art and craft sessions keep children and their families engaged and distracted from the harsh realities of life,” the co-founder explains. The day before a child’s chemotherapy is tough. “The key is to keep them engaged today, and leave as little time as possible to worry about tomorrow,” Kaviratane signs off. AT St Jude ChildCare Centre, RJ Gaikwad Road, Wadala East.LOG ON TO stjudechild.org (to learn more or donate)
15 December,2025 09:24 AM IST | Mumbai | Devashish KambleAimed at young learners aged six to 14, the workshop encourages children to build functional electronic Christmas models while gaining a strong foundation in science and engineering concepts. Reetu Jain, managing director and founder, OMOTEC (On My Own Technology), reveals that the workshop has been carefully structured to ensure that children of all skill levels feel confident and included. “Our Christmas STEM workshop is designed to be beginner-friendly, and every activity follows an age-appropriate, make-and-take-home format, allowing children to build their projects entirely from scratch using safe, child-friendly components.” Children assemble a NeoPixel-based lantern at a previous workshop The workshop focuses on learning by doing. Mentors offer step-by-step guidance to children, breaking down complex ideas into simple, easy instructions. While younger participants focus on assembling and understanding basic elements, older or more experienced children are encouraged to explore deeper concepts such as circuit logic and light patterns, allowing the workshop to be equally enriching for all. Each two-hour session is balanced between conceptual understanding and creative expression. The workshop begins with an interactive introduction, where children learn how lights, circuits, switches, and batteries work together. This is followed by a hands-on making phase, during which participants assemble wooden components, connect LEDs or NeoPixels, and test their circuits under mentor supervision. The second half of the session is dedicated to personalisation, allowing children to decorate and experiment with colours and lighting, giving it a more personal touch. “The goal is not just to teach theory, but to help children understand how things work by actually building them, and by the end of the workshop, every child takes home a fully functioning Christmas creation they have built with their own hands,” emphasises Jain. Mentors assist participants in building the miniature tree. Pics courtesy/Reetu Jain Participants create three handcrafted working models — an LED Christmas tree, a lit-up Santa sledge, and a NeoPixel-based Christmas lantern. This is important as the attendees are introduced to the building blocks of robotics and electronics, such as circuits, sensors (optional, in advanced versions), batteries, current flow, light control, and creative engineering. “More importantly, children experience the complete process of testing, troubleshooting, and improving their work, which lies at the heart of STEM education,” explains Jain. Reetu Jain Safety and engagement remain central to the workshop’s design. Since the workshop focuses on children, all materials are non-toxic, smooth, and age-appropriate, and activities are supervised throughout. Beyond technical knowledge, children develop creativity, problem-solving abilities, fine motor skills, and, importantly, a sense of ownership. Jain sums it up, “As children move from imagination to execution, they realise they are capable of creating something meaningful, and this workshop helps children discover the joy of making with their own hands, which has a longer shelf life than receiving a store-bought item.” ON December 13 to 31; 2 pm onwardsAT OMOTEC, Shop 50 Shree Laxmi Plaza, New Link Road, Andheri West. LOG ON TO district.inCALL 9324593173ENTRY Rs 699
15 December,2025 09:16 AM IST | Mumbai | Rumani GabhareJust a short walk from the Gorai Creek jetty that transports Mumbaikars to Essel World every day, lies a world of unexplored flora and fauna. “Most people think of Navi Mumbai when they think of mangroves. The wetlands in Gorai are home to a wide range of unique plants and wildlife,” says naturalist Sachin Rane. While that will soon (hopefully) change with the upcoming Gorai Mangrove Park, Rane’s group Naturalist Explorers are playing early bird and setting out on a walk focusing on the history of mangroves in Mumbai, and its evergreen and seasonal inhabitants. ON December 20; 7.30 amMEETING POINT Revealed on registrationCALL 8976451433ENTRY Revealed on request Spot these at the walk Painted Stork Miswak and Desert Hyacinth When will the flamingos arrive? Don’t fall for viral posts depicting Mumbai’s wetlands turning pink just yet. Navi Mumbai resident and naturalist Sachin Rane says: “While stray sightings have been reported, the full migration of flamingos is delayed this year owing to extended monsoon in Kutch, where the birds camp before flying to Mumbai. Expect the winged visitors to arrive by December 25.”
13 December,2025 08:52 AM IST | Mumbai | Devashish KambleADVERTISEMENT
