Contradictions and convictions Not one of us lives without contradictions, but I have to confess having those contradictions forced into your brain through merciless text and indisputable logic is anything but comfortable. That is why I owe Manu Joseph a debt of gratitude for forcing me to re-examine the ease with which I adapt to inequity with his book, Why The Poor Don’t Kill Us: The Psychology of Indians. Read just this one line in an avalanche of words to know why this is ‘The Book of the Year’ for me: “The worst truth of this new order is that they, who received the finest education and other opportunities, and who consider themselves the most intelligent and informed among Indians, have been shown as inaccurate, unreliable, and incompetent political analysts of their own nation.” I am who Manu Joseph writes about. And I have tried, and failed, to fix myself.Bittu Sahgal, editor, Sanctuary Asia Hospitality matters For me, Unreasonable Hospitality by Will Guidara stands out as the book of the year because it captures a fundamental shift in how modern restaurants are thinking about service and experience. The author goes beyond food and technique to focus on something far more lasting, how guests feel when they walk through your doors and long after they leave. The book is a powerful reminder that hospitality isn’t about grand gestures alone, but about intention, empathy, and attention to detail. It reinforces the idea that creating memorable moments often comes from small, thoughtful actions done consistently.Hussain Shahzad, executive chef, Papa’s, The Bombay Canteen, O Pedro & Veronica’s Keeping it real Having read it many years ago, I decided to read Rohinton Mistry’s Such a Long Journey again in 2025. I thoroughly enjoyed it with its realistic setting of a typical Parsee colony (baug). Plus, it included a few historical events during Indira Gandhi’s Prime Ministerial regime.Vispi Balaporia, president, Asiatic Society of Mumbai Rostov and Roy The first book is A Gentleman in Moscow by Amor Towles. It’s a beautifully written poetic book about resilience and resistance in the face of extraordinary challenges. Count Alexander Rostov, a Russian aristocrat is caught in the throes of the Russian Revolution, and must give up everything that defines him. But his charm, grace and encyclopaedic knowledge prove the enduring strength of the human spirit in the face of appalling adversity. I must add another book by my friend Anindyo Roy — The Viceroy’s Artist. It captures Edward Lear’s time in India beautifully and in poignant detail.Tasneem Mehta, director, Dr Bhau Daji Lad Museum Gandhi, Tagore, and the rest With a thousand-plus collection, I didn’t really have ‘A Book of the Year.’ But yes, there are books for all times, each one carrying a quiet impact. Throughout 2025, I have mostly read Mahatma Gandhi, Rabindranath Tagore and Friedrich Nietzsche, as a way of returning to the influences that have shaped me. What was particularly interesting was how Tagore and Gandhi debated their differences through their writings and yet maintained such enormous respect for each other. No acrimony, no impunity — just a genuine exchange of ideas and intentions. In fiction, I returned to the works of Isaac Babel and Richard Yates, both writers with an amazing sense of nuance and observation and who did not receive their dues in their lifetime. Murzban Shroff, author For planet Earth One of the most vital and necessary books that I had the privilege of reading this year was Sunil Amrith’s The Burning Earth: An Environmental History of the Last 500 Years. I read it in March while preparing, with Ravi Agarwal and Amruta Nemivant, an international anthology of essays around the climate catastrophe, Practices of Hope. In October, The Burning Earth most deservedly won the prestigious British Academy Book Prize. Surveying and annotating humankind’s brutal exploitation of the planet across the oceans and the continents during the last half-millennium, Amrith weaves together the themes of empire, colonialism, war, genocide and environmental violence, to present the tragic portrait of a species — our own — whose greatest triumphs are its greatest disasters. He shows how our unchecked greed for resources has brought nature to the edge of collapse while trampling human dignity and freedom underfoot. Sustained by rigorous, extensive research and written with persuasive eloquence, the book is absolutely required reading.Ranjit Hoskote, poet, art critic and cultural theorist
26 December,2025 07:45 AM IST | Mumbai | Fiona FernandezHow does one create art? Usually, you build it from scratch, or paint it, or shape it. But in every method, you require restraint and control. Sgraffito teaches you this rare trait. The Italian art form traces its root to the Italian word sgraffiare that means ‘to scratch.’ When applied to ceramic art, it refers to decorating different surfaces of clay using techniques of scratching the clay, and exposing the contrast on the lower level. Aparnaa Garrodia, chief clay officer of Studio Hands Inclay in Ghatkopar, emphasises that this technique unfolds at a pace that feels almost defiant in a city accustomed to speed. Patience is key The finished product after the process of plating, painting, carving, and firing the clay Before a participant arrives, Garrodia shapes a simple plate and allows it to rest until it reaches the leather-hard stage — neither too wet nor dry. She notes, “This state is essential as the clay must be firm enough to withstand carving, yet supple enough to respond to pressure. After this, we guide them through placing a layer of underglaze on this surface. It gives the plate a solid and deep colour. And once your colour dries, it is time for design.” Attendees at a previous workshop. Pics courtesy/Aparnaa Garrodia She also explains how the first intervention is colour. Sgraffito truly begins when the layer of underglaze dries. Unlike painting, which builds imagery through addition, this technique relies on removal. Designs are scratched on the coloured surface to expose the clay beneath, creating a contrast through absence rather than excess. Make your own mark ”As far as the tools used are concerned, they are simple and beginner-friendly — wired tools, needle-like tips, and ball head tools — held much like a pencil. What distinguishes each piece is not the tool, but the hand that guides it. Pressure varies instinctively; lines deepen or soften according to the maker’s touch. There is no undoing a mark once it is made,” said Garrodia. The pottery wheel at the studio in Ghatkopar Once the carving is complete, the plate is set aside to dry gradually. Once bone-dry, it is put through the first firing, also known as bisque firing (the first firing of pottery that transforms the fragile, bone-dry clay into a hard, porous ceramic called ‘bisqueware’). This hardens the piece while leaving it porous. At this stage, the plate is durable enough to handle, but still absorbent — a crucial quality for what comes next. The different types of tools used for Sgraffito marking “A transparent glaze is then applied, soaking into the fired clay like liquid glass. This glaze melts and fuses with the surface, sealing the carved design beneath a glossy, protective layer. The colours sharpen, the clay vitrifies, and the plate is ready — functional, food-safe, and permanent,” explains Garrodia. Aparnaa Garrodia Garrodia urges attendees, “Sgraffito is not just about a finished object, but an encounter with slowness. Participants often arrive focused on the end result, yet leave absorbed by the process itself. It demands attention, patience, and trust in one’s hand. From raw earth to refined surface, the journey of the clay mirrors the quiet discipline of the maker — thoughtful, intentional, and unhurried.” TILL December 29; 4.30 pm onwards (multiple slots) AT 702, Vista 2, The Address, Lal Bahadur Shastri Marg, Ghatkopar West. LOG ON TO district.in CALL 9930243336ENTRY Rs 3000
26 December,2025 07:40 AM IST | Mumbai | Rumani GabhareTrekking to the top of a mountain to catch the morning sun is one way to end 2025. If you’re looking to skip the city traffic on the last weekend of the year, you might want to join a trek to Kalsubai, the highest mountain peak in Maharashtra at 5400 feet. “The Kalsubai trek is open to anyone, from beginners to parents with children. Participants get the chance to view the sunrise and cloud formation, which is especially prominent between November and January, from the peak,” trek leader Digvijay Rathore of organisers Mischief Treks reveals. Apart from the panoramic view of the Sahyadri range, you can glimpse the Harihar and Harishchandragad forts, amongst several other attractions in the vicinity. The sunrise from the peak, as captured on an earlier trek; (right) Kalsubai Temple Rathore outlines the trek, “Most of the trek takes place before sunrise. It begins at the base village, named Bari. Participants (limited to 25) will receive a short introduction, after which we begin the ascent. Notable features of the Kalsubai trail are its rocky patches and iron ladders. Meal breaks will be provided in between, for breakfast and tea.” An attraction is the Kalsubai Temple, which holds cultural significance; devotees pay visits year-round. He points out that the trek is completely open to children as well, provided they are accompanied by an adult. Post the descent, the group will be offered lunch at Bari Village at the foothills. “Ensure that you have shoes with a good grip, and carry an extra pair of floaters, along with an extra pair of clothes, a jacket to shield against cold winds, medications, ready-to-eat food, and a haversack for all your belongings, so that your hands stay free,” Rathore emphasises. He signs off, “Though a safety briefing will be given, I’d caution trekkers to keep themselves well-hydrated, instead of delaying their water breaks along the way until it’s too late; and also, to avoid playing loud music or creating a ruckus, given the area is of religious and historic importance as well.” On December 27; 9.30 pm to December 28; 5 pm Meeting point Bari Village, Ahilyanagar district.Log on to mischieftreks.com (for registration and travel details)Entry Rs 500 (per person, without transportation)
26 December,2025 07:32 AM IST | Mumbai | Trisha GhoshThursdayChristmas cheers Ring in the festivities in a familiar setting at this Stranger Things-inspired celebration that will turn a Belapur restaurant into the fictional world of Upside Down. TIME 6 pm AT Ayame, Sai Sagar Complex, CBD Belapur. LOG ON TO sortmyscene. com ENTRY Rs 760 onwards FridayMeet me in Matharpacady The Holy Cross Oratory. FILE PIC Celebrate Christmas in the close-knit gaothan of Matharpacady. Interact with the old-time residents, visit the iconic Holy Cross Oratory, that recently completed 150 years, and join an East Indian feast as you soak in the neighbourhood’s history and culture.TIME 6 pm to 8 pmAT Matharpacady Village, Mazgaon.LOG ON TO @photowalksmumbaiENTRY Rs 599 (includes food) SaturdayFun with furries Nino at a previous session. PIC COURTESY/GAYATRI AYYER Leave your children in the cosy company of trained therapy dogs Nino, Shiro, Myshka at a playdate organised by certified therapist collective Pawsitive Synergies. The day out aims to help children learn safe interaction measures.AGE GROUP 6 to 17 yearsTIME 11 amAT Your Neighbourhood Therapist, Shree Ram Tower, Mira Road East. LOG ON TO @yourneighbourhood.therapistENTRY Rs 800 A golden night Sona Mohapatra. PIC COURTESY/Wikimedia Commons Catch singer-composer Sona Mohapatra at her performance, The 24K Show, featuring Bollywood, fusion, and folk, among other genres. On the list are new-age Sufi Qawwalis, original compositions, and glimpses of Indian classical dance forms.TIME 7.30 pmAT Nita Mukesh Ambani Cultural Centre, Bandra Kurla Complex.LOG ON TO in.bookmyshow.com ENTRY Rs 1400 onwards SundayMischief in the making Arjun Singh performs a trick. PIC COURTESY/@themischiefway Peek into an illusionist’s tricks at magician Arjun Singh’s live show, Nothing Up My Sleeve. TIME 8 pmAT 3 Art House, Mohini Heights, Khar West. LOG ON TO 3arthouse.comENTRY Rs 483 Culture meets craft A Bandhej workshop. PIC COURTESY/Odd Merch Learn all about the hand-tied textile art of Bandhej, from Gujarat and Rajasthan. Create your own personal piece as a memento at this craft workshop.TIME 11 am to 1 pmAT Snickerdoodle Coffeeworks, Rambaug, Kalyan. LOG ON TO @snickerdoodlecoffeeworks (to register)ENTRY Rs 850 Climb your way up Sondai Fort. PIC COURTESY/Wikimedia Commons If you’re interested in some adventure and exploration, check out this trek to Sondai Fort, near Karjat. Expect breathtaking views and attractions on the way, including the Sondai Devi Temple.TIME 8.10 am (meeting)MEETING POINT Karjat Railway StationLOG ON TO treksandtrails.orgENTRY Rs 799 (without transportation)
25 December,2025 09:15 AM IST | Mumbai | Trisha Ghosh | Devashish KambleCompiled by Shriram Iyengar, Devashish Kamble, Trisha Ghosh and Rumani Gabhare You won’t live forever If I had to wish for anything, I would ask for people to be more empathetic. Can we have more compassion, and remind human beings around us that no one lives forever? Hence, stop your hatred right away.Makarand Deshpande, actor, theatremaker Peace and unity All I want for Christmas is clean air, clean food, and clean water as is the fundamental right of every citizen. Even more, I would want people to realise hatred does no good for us, or the people that we hate. I would want people to understand the power of peace, unity, and the good in coming together.Luke Coutinho, integrative lifestyle expert BEST wishes for the city If I could ask Santa for one gift it would be an impetus to the BEST buses across the city. Having worked closely on the ground with walkability, we know how the decline of these city icons has hindered the city. Any improvement to the system will be a relief to close to 1.5 crore people. The second one would be improved pedestrian access across the city. We desperately need it.Rishi Aggarwal, co-founder, The Walking Project Women, art, and the environment Pic/Satej Shinde I’d wish for the passing of laws that favour the reversal of patriarchy and control over women in the country. In particular, I’d like to see an all-woman judicial committee that comes up with recommendations. I would also like more central cultural funds to go towards artist sustainability across all art forms. When it comes to Mumbai, I want Santa to help ensure heritage laws are put in place to protect villages like Pali and Ranwar. Also, why not make the sea more accessible. How are the waters so polluted only within the limits of Mumbai city? I hope these wishes are not too much to ask.Ayesha Parikh, founder, Art & Charlie, Bandra Quick-fix roads Pic courtesy/@jeeyasethi The only wish I have is for clearer skies because coughing is harder than breathing, right? A faster turnaround time for road digging would be great too: Two days at best, I’d say. Or is that too much to ask for?Jeeya Sethi, stand-up comedian Renewal over redevelopment We can never stop at one wish for Christmas, but I would ask Santa for a clean environment, good roads and footpaths, improved public transport with good last-mile connectivity. Most of all, I would wish for respect and protection for heritage structures, and for the people to encourage and embrace urban renewal rather than redevelopment.Vikas Dilawari, conservation architect Filled stomachs, happy hearts I am a restaurateur and anything I wish for has to be about food. My heart’s true wish would be for a Michelin Star, but if that is not in Santa’s bag of goodies, I would settle for filled dining rooms across the world. The more people eat, the happier it makes me. There is also a touch of selfishness, as we are hoping to launch a new brand, and are exploring avenues in Dubai. So, it seems like an appropriate wish.Abhayraj Kohli, restaurateur, co-owner, Pritam da Dhaba
25 December,2025 09:01 AM IST | Mumbai | The Guide TeamSouth 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 a cocktail 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
24 December,2025 02:14 PM IST | Mumbai | Shriram Iyengar | Trisha GhoshCurrency is often treated as a functional object that is passed from hand to hand. Nature through Currency, a show and tell workshop by Sarmaya Arts Foundation demonstrates how money can also be read as a quiet archive of place, memory and imagination — one that reflects how societies understand identity, belief and power while reflecting on the basics of nature. Silver rupee or ‘Kyat’ of Burma, during the reign of Mindon Min, during Burmese Chula-Sakarat Era, 1853 The workshop, which runs alongside Sarmaya’s ongoing exhibition, Odyssey of the Rupee: From India to the World, invites participants to look closely at the natural motifs that appear on coins and banknotes across centuries. Founder of Sarmaya Arts Foundation, Paul Abraham explains how animals, plants and landscapes served multiple purposes, and that they could function as decorative flourishes, markers of geography, affirmations of faith or even assertions of authority. 1 dollar banknote of Bahamas, 1968. Pics courtesy/Sarmaya Arts Foundation Historical examples from the Indian Subcontinent reveal how closely nature, religion and rulership were intertwined. “In the Kingdoms of Deccan, Boar imagery often appeared on coins to signal Vaishnavite allegiance, referring to Varaha, an avatar of Vishnu,” emphasised Abraham. He also shared peculiar details about currency and motifs across the geography of India, for example in South India, Shaivite rulers chose Nandi, the bull as a symbol of devotion. Sikh royalty depicted the Ber leaf, the Nawabs of Awadh favoured fish, and Jaipur’s maharajas used branches or Jhar (a tree native to Rajasthan, vital for desert survival, providing fodder and wood, and holding deep cultural and religious significance) to express religious identity. One rufiyaa banknote, issued by the Republic of Maldives, 1948-1960 Even earlier, the punch-marked coins of the Janapadas featured animals such as snakes, turtles, elephants, horses and camels, defining the ecological and cultural aspects during those days. Tripura lion on the silver rupee issued by the Maharaj of Tripura, Vira Vikrama Kishore Manikya, 1926 “Through these examples, we encourage people to see currency as so much more than just a medium of exchange, revealing how ideas of ecology, identity and nationhood have long been embedded in everyday and regular objects,” explained Abraham, adding, “Context per say is extremely important in helping us understand symbols. If I ask a group to define ‘Indian-ness’ with just one image, one person may draw the flag, another the face of Mahatma Gandhi, yet another, the Ashok Sthamb and so on, and hence this proves that while they’re all conveying the same idea, each will associate a different kind of imagery with it.” During the course of this workshop, conversations naturally emerge about why certain symbols resonate with certain things and what they reveal about personal identity as well as collective identity. Paul Abraham Abraham signs off, summarising its relevance, “This show reframes numismatics for audiences as a cultural and artistic lens. Indian coins and banknotes chart over 2,500 years of political, economic and cultural change. By learning to read them closely, participants are invited not only to connect with the past, but also to consider what currency might reveal about the future”. ON December 27; 11 am to 12.30 pmAT Sarmaya Arts Foundation, Kala Ghoda, Fort. COST Rs 500
24 December,2025 10:46 AM IST | Mumbai | Rumani GabhareIf you had to bring AR Rahman, RD Burman and the Nightingale of Goa Lorna Cordeiro together on a hip-hop album, you’d need some kind of divine intervention. Vivian Fernandes aka Divine does it quite effortlessly on his fifth studio album Walking On Water. The rapper in Triple OG, a dance-y track from the new studio album On the back of music production by long-time collaborators Karan Kanchan and Phenom among others, the 16-track album plays out as an ode to the rapper’s Goan roots, Mumbaikar soul, and global reach. One for all Cloudious Fernandes, 38, avid fan One moment that stood out from the launch event on December 18 was Divine’s shoutout to his friends from the East Indian community. The rapper is a Goan at heart but grew up around the EI community in JB Nagar, Andheri. It’s great to see he still remembers his day-ones. As a longtime fan, it’s great to see an album with minimal featured artists; it shows you he’s still got it in him. Tracks like Drama got me emotional, while Homicide reminded me of the old Divine who had fire in his belly and aggression on the tip of his tongue. We want more Shafi Shaikh, 28, rapper I started my initiative Street Hip Hop, which hosts open-to-all cyphers across Mumbai after listening to Divine rap in the early 2010s. Divine is back in business, but you really expect something exceptional from a studio album. A few songs like Saucy and Tequila Dance featuring Hanumankind will definitely blow up soon, but younger rappers seem to agree that there could have been more experimentation beyond two or three genres. We wish he dabbled in genres like Drill and Old School Grime — he has the voice for it. Right now, we have our eyes on the upcoming music videos. Studio talk MC Altaf (below) from Divine’s rap crew Gully Gang, takes us behind the scenes of ABCD from the new album. We [the crew] often meet at Vivian bhai’s home studio in Bandra to catch up and share ideas. The atmosphere is such that artistes walk in and out of the studio where they feel completely at home. One of those days, he played me a new catchy verse he had written. As we sat and listened, I wrote a few lines on my phone’s notes app and he put me on the mic. Next, we got rapper Sammohit from the crew into the studio. We would take turns writing and recording on the go. That’s how ABCD naturally came into being. It is a special track because it marks a reunion of the Gully Gang boys after almost three years. We would often discuss how a collaborative, authentic track like this was long overdue. I’m glad it has struck a chord with listeners. My top picks from album: The album features nods to Lorna Cordeiro. PICS COURTESY/WIKIMEDIA COMMONS, INSTAGRAM 1) Homicide: Reminds me of the old Divine 2) Drama: It was the last in line to be produced, but it cuts deep with its emotional undertones3) Jungle Juice: A fresh relook at the rapper’s Goan roots packaged in a Detroit-inspired beat Did you hear that? Keep an ear out for these cool Easter Eggs in the new album AR Rahman >> Is that Lorna? The track Jungle Juice opens with Goa’s music icon, Lorna Cordeiro singing her Konkani hit Urak. At the launch event on December 18, the rapper admitted that getting Lorna on a track has been a longtime dream >> Aarey calling: Coinciding with the ongoing leopard menace in the city and its suburbs, Divine recalls his escapades in Aarey Colony in the same track. The rapper talks of tales of leopards while cruising with his gang >> Sounds like Sholay: RD Burman’s 1975 hit Mehbooba Mehbooba from Sholay lays the background to track 9, You & I >> Rahman tribute: AR Rahman’s popular tune Kehna Hi Kya from Bombay (1990) gets a nod from the rapper in Boom (Bonus)
24 December,2025 10:43 AM IST | Mumbai | Devashish KambleSOUTH MUMBAI Gatsby glam DJ AEM (left). PIC courtesy/@i.aem._ Rewind time to the Roaring Twenties at this Gatsby-themed dance party spread across two venues in Kala Ghoda. Catch upcoming acts like homegrown EDM talents AEM, Bhish and CHHABB, and needless to say, come dressed in your best suits. TIME 9 pm onwardsAT Hylo and The Dimsum Room, K Dubash Marg, Kala Ghoda, Fort.CALL 9004191901 ENTRY Revealed on request Spice it up SoBo Picante. Pic courtesy/Sobo20 End the year on a spicy high at this Franco-American bar that specialises in Creole-Cajun flavours. Our pick from the year ender-special menu is the SoBo Picante that comes with jalapeno, coriander, and agave spirits.TIME 7 pm onwards AT Sobo20, ground floor, Hotel InterContinental, Marine Drive.CALL 7506229762 (for reservations) Cheers to beer A fruit-based ale. PIC COURTESY/EFFINGUT Beers will be pouring at this popular Colaba brewery that’s hosting a big bash with an all-white dress code. We don’t mean to be a buzz-kill, but watch your drinks, please.TIME 7 pm onwards AT Effingut, Dhanraj Mahal, Colaba. LOG ON TO effingut.com ENTRY Rs 5000 per person CENTRAL MUMBAI Glow away REPRESENTATION PIC/ISTOCK Sneak in one last night of vibrant colours and neon extravaganza before the debated Cloud Dancer colour of the year takes over 2026. This glow-in-the-dark party will move to EDM tunes by DJ Akash.TIME 9 pmAT Not Just Tamasha, Victoria Mills, Pandurang Budhkar Marg, Lower Parel. LOG ON TO in.bookmyshow.comENTRY Rs 3000 per person onwards In high spirits El Frescura. Pic courtesy/ASILO If you’re looking to treat yourself to a premium experience, head to this five-star rooftop venue. Watch the city transition into 2026 from 40 floors above at an open-air affair set to the background score of violins.TIME 9 pmAT Asilo, St Regis, Lower Parel. LOG ON TO @asilomumbaiENTRY Rs 16,999 per person onwards Alps calling PIC courtesy/LUNA ET SOL Ditch the loud, deafening all-nighters and head to a slow New Year celebration at this restaurant inspired by the French Alps. The tall arched windows and ceiling double as screens depicting realistic views from the mountain ranges. End the night by an indoor fireplace with a European cocktail in hand.TIME 9 pm onwardsAT Luna Et Sol, Lodha World Crest, Senapati Bapat Marg, Lower Parel. LOG ON TO district.inENTRY Rs 6000 per person onwards Into the night Shannen SP. PIC COURTESY/@shannensp_ This Lower Parel haunt is warming up its speakers for a night of back to back DJ sets. We have our eyes on London-based DJ Shannen SP’s India debut.TIME 9 pm onwardsAT antiSocial, Mathuradas Mill Compound, Lower Parel. LOG ON TO skillboxes.comENTRY Rs 1000 WESTERN SUBURBS Calm after the storm Give yourself the much-needed push, especially after the year-end parties at Pondichéry Café with their curated brunch menu.ON January 1, 2026; 12.30 pm to 4 pmAT C-57, G block, Bandra Kurla Complex.CALL 61175000Entry Rs 5574 onwards Goa in Mumbai Pic COURTESY/Sorozai Celebrate the New Year’s like the Goans, as this restaurant will transform into a vibrant Goan haven for the day. TIME 8.30 pm onwardsAT Soro Zai, Aaram Nagar, Seven Bungalows, Versova, Andheri WestCALL 8779859450 (for reservation) Slow down Spicy Mushroom Sushi. Pic courtesy/@blahbombay New Year’s Eve doesn’t always have to be rushed. Indulge in a night out at this quiet dinner under glowing disco lights, with long conversations, and no loud countdown.TIME 8 pm to 10 pm, 10 pm to 1 amAT Blah! Brunch Cafe & Bar, The Capital, G Block, BKC (also in Santacruz). CALL 7710805999 (BKC); 8657548464 (Santacruz) ENTRY Rs 2000 (couples); Rs 1500 (Stag entry) Serene night Pic courtesy/the yoga house Try something new with this session, featuring sound healing, breathwork, music, and letting go of the old to usher in the new.TIME 7 pm to 9 pm, 10 pm to 1 amAT The Yoga House, Sherly Rajan Road, Bandra West. CALL 8655930022 (bookings) Electric energy Pic courtesy/@thestudsmumbai Begin your 2026 with a Glow Face Art party zone, a special menu, signature cocktails and tap beers, and a high-energy dance floor. TIME 7 pm onwardsAT The Studs Sports Bar & Grill, Sakinaka.CALL 8828582688ENTRY Rs 1500 onwards Gaming night Pic courtesy/Dave & Buster’s Interested in a bolder way to enter the New Year? Don’t miss the arcade games, bowling, and darts at this venue, accompanied by a DJ, cocktails, and bites in between to keep things going.TIME 8 pmAT Dave & Buster’s, 4th floor, Infiniti Mall, Shastri Nagar, Andheri West. LOG ON TO district.inENTRY Rs 999 Boozy New Year Pic courtesy/@monkeybarind Welcome 2026 with DJ Zohanne and DJ Dharam (above) as the bar will roll out the favourites, a celebratory cocktail menu with beers all night long.TIME 9 pm onwardsAT Monkey Bar, Linking Road, 14th and 33rd Cross Road, Bandra West. CALL 7710083222 LOG ON TO @monkeybarind ENTRY Rs 3000 onwards Veggie good times Pic courtesy/@avataramumbai Treat yourself to an 11-course experiential menu of Indian flavours, curated for New Year’s Eve, paired with wine cocktails. Also, enjoy live violin-playing, for an elegant experience.TIME 7 pmAT Avatara, Krishna Curve Building, Juhu Tara Road, Santacruz West. LOG ON TO district.inENTRY Rs 6179 EASTERN SUBURBS Please don’t stop the music PIC courtesy/@djmoskitto Ready for a New Year’s Eve night that is big, bold, and louf? Dance to the beats of DJ Moskitto (right), along with aerial performances and hula-hoop shows throughout the night. TIME 8 pm onwardsAT The Acres Club, Natvar Parikh Chowk, Sindhi Society, Chembur. LOG ON TO bookmyshow.comEntry Rs 1950 onwards Clink to the New Year PIC courtesy/@thebasileio Dress up and go all out for a new years party that includes a red-carpet welcome, and a classic champagne toast at midnight.TIME 9.30 pm onwardsAT The Basileio, 3rd Floor, R Mall, Lal Bahadur Shastri Marg, Mulund West.LOG ON TO district.in Entry Rs 999 onwards Adrenaline rush Pic COURTESY/MOJITO CAFE AND BAR Dance your way through the night at Mojito Café and Bar with an unlimited buffet and drinks, without burning a hole in your pocket.TIME 7 pm onwardsAT Mojito Cafe and Bar, Pankhanda Road, Owale, Thane. LOG ON TO @mojitocafe_and_bar CALL 8852007007 Entry Rs 2000 onwards Shake a leg Enjoy fireworks, champagne, and VDJ Ronk’s groovy music.TIME 8 pm onwardsAT Orangemint Lounge, Kailash Industrial Complex, Vikhroli West. CALL 9892919898 Season’s special Celebrate New Year’s Eve with a specially curated menu, with à la carte offerings, and an elegant ambience.TIME Multiple slotsAT Eve, Hiranandani Gardens, Powai. LOG ON TO district.in ENTRY Rs 2500 BEYOND MUMBAI Let’s hit the waves PIC courtesy/MUMBAI SURF CLUB Ring in the calm by a surfside getaway hosted by Mumbai surf club and organised by Surfing Federation of India, for New Year’s by paddle boating, kayaking and surfing.ON December 31 to January; 12 pm onwardsAT Mumbai Surf Club and School, Rajodi, Beach, Virar. LOG ON TO @mumbaisurfclub COST Rs 6000 onwards Escape to fun Pic courtesy/@imagicaaworld Bring in the New Year’s at this theme park with DJ Kratex and a never-ending celebration.ON December 31; 8 pm onwardsAT Imagica, 30/31 Sangdewadi, Khalapur, Lonavala. LOG ON TO imagicaaworld.com ENTRY Rs 943 onwards
23 December,2025 09:22 AM IST | Mumbai | Devashish Kamble | Trisha GhoshBack to stationery If you want to handcraft cards, revisit all the stationery materials you may have stowed away at home. “These mainly include brown cardstock for the base, and coloured paper: Red, green or beige,” Desai says. “Take white paper, silver glitter paper, and even stickers for snowflakes, polka dots, and a red ribbon. Don’t forget the scissors and glue.” Cut out the shapes For a card with layered paper trees, Desai instructs, “Cut the base first: Fold the brown card stock in half to form the card. Keep the front side flat for the design.” The next step is to make the trees. A shaded Santa Claus card with paper-cut frill beard “Craft several triangular shapes from red and green paper, with different sizes for depth. Also, make smaller beige or white triangles for the snow‑covered look,” she adds. Similarly, for the Santa Claus card, you can create a large circle for the face with beige paper, a white circular beard, a red hat with a white pom-pom, and smaller circles for details of the eyes, nose, and mouth. “Glue the facial features onto the beige face, and add a red mouth,” she says. “Finally, attach the beard below the face.” Add and assemble For the tree-themed card, she reveals, “Using white paint or stickers, place circular dots on each tree triangle to mimic ornaments. Priti Desai Follow this by assembling the forest —arrange the triangles on the front of the card in a staggered row; the larger trees at the back, smaller in front. Glue them down.” You can also make snowflake tops using silver glitter paper. Accessories galore Cut a strip of red ribbon and glue it horizontally across the bottom of the card, covering the tree bases. “Tie a small bow in the centre, and add some finishing touches by pressing it gently, to ensure it’s secure.” She reminds us to allow the glue to dry completely. As for the Santa card, what would Santa be without a hat? “Once the face is put together, attach the hat by sticking it on top of the face, with the white pom-pom at the tip,” Desai suggests. The final touch For the Santa card, Desai recommends, “Give Santa’s face some nice shading, or other elements with a black marker, for the beard lines and facial features.” For both cards, don’t forget the obvious: Writing your message. You can use sketch pens, crayons, or simple pencils to give life to the card. Add a dash of festive sparkle with cool illustrations, and experiment with quirky handwriting as well. LOG ON TO @pritisartandcraft_classes CALL 9821503324
22 December,2025 08:22 AM IST | Mumbai | Trisha GhoshAs we navigate the choc-a-bloc parking lot of the Kala Ghoda art district, dodging serious shoppers and their large, luxury cars, the humourist in us imagines the lording black horse chuckle at our predicament. In a little over a month, the scene will dramatically transform into a vibrant showcase of eclectic installations and indie retail stalls, for the 26th Kala Ghoda Arts Festival (KGAF) which begins on January 31. Pandit Hariprasad Chaurasia performs in 2002 Brinda Miller, its honorary chairperson and festival director, accompanies us as we retrace the trail of the early editions. Around us, heritage landmarks create an ominous boundary that lines the nucleus of this annual cultural spectacle. Some like the Elphinstone College are venue partners, while others like the restored Keneseth Eliyahoo Synagogue and David Sassoon Library and Reading Room relay the intent behind the Kala Ghoda Association’s core vision — to bring heritage, culture and the arts together under one umbrella. Later, over cheese toast and coffee at Knead Cafe, we dissect its massive imprint on Mumbai’s and India’s cultural calendar for over 25 years. Excerpts from the interview. Let’s rewind to the early days of the festival…It was 1999. I remember standing on the pavement witnessing the press conference — there were Mrs [Sangita] Jindal, the Tatas, and Kala Ghoda residents. I was excited that we finally had a lovely festival along Rampart Row. Adnan Sami at the 2002 edition of the festival My father [Nana Chudasama] was always part of public life and he loved doing such things. Maybe, I inherited it from him. In the early days, it was a charming, 14-day festival with no verticals like visual arts. The area was not shut to traffic. Art galleries in the vicinity wanted to list their special shows and events. For two weekends, concerts were held in the parking lot where the horse stands now. This was discontinued later when it became a silent zone due to its proximity to places of worship and educational institutions. Trilok Gurtu jams with Remo Fernandes (right) in 2003. File Pics Every year, we felt it wouldn’t survive because of lack of funds but somehow, we kept it alive. Few will remember that the late Pritish Nandy donated Rs 1 crore from his MLA fund in the early 2000s to build the amphitheatre in Kala Ghoda. We were lucky that well-wishers came forward in the early days. Today, the district has transformed into a buzzing destination where heritage and history blend with eating out and retail destinations. When did you and the core team realise that the festival had the potential to get bigger?Funds were a struggle for the first five-six years. Then, there was a sudden burst of sponsorship from the print media. HSBC and the Jindals supported us immensely. However, when people helming the festival would move after a few years, we would face a sense of abandonment. The challenge was to prove to ourselves that we could take it forward. I was on the committee, and was always around to help. The role came to me by default. When they said, ‘We don’t think you can do it as well; we hope you can,’ I took it as a challenge. Every year, we ensured that the bar was raised. There were highs and lows. Visitors walk past an installation at the 2023 edition How did you rise after the lows?One of the reasons the programming suffered was when we lost funding. The festival started looking tacky. We have a wonderful event management team that has helped us survive over the years, through the ups and downs. Just when we were not doing too great, COVID-19 hit; but we were determined to keep it going. So, we organised an online edition that year. People liked it though it wasn’t my cup of tea. Then, when the second wave struck I decided to give the festival a gap year despite suggestions to organise another online edition. There are certain costs involved, and we didn’t wish to waste people’s time and effort. The 2026 edition would have been the 27th year, but it is the 26th for this reason. A view of festivities in the parking lot. File Pic/Shadab Khan Our resilience brought us back after those two years. We had to find sponsors and literally beg for funding. We are artistic people, not business folk. Now, it’s better; people approach us, and it’s an organic process. The festival stalls were our saviours. They were lucky because we had secured permissions back then, which wouldn’t have been possible now. These stalls have funded the festival in a big way. Many performers come on board for much less because we are a free festival. The dynamic changes if we become a ticketed festival. The state government also backs us for this reason. I’m sure we are Asia’s largest street festival. Has the typical KGAF visitor changed over time?The crowd has distinctively changed over the years. Earlier, the festival used to be just for the elite in SoBo; the rest couldn’t figure what it was about. When big artistes including Ustad Zakir Hussain, Pandit Hariprasad Chaurasia and Trilok Gurtu began to perform at Rampart Row, the middle-class thronged the festival. Back then, we didn’t have security or DFMDs (Door Frame Metal Detectors). Visitors would even climb trees to watch concerts! A metallic horse installation on Rampart Row (right) A man poses with a dabbawala installation during the 2013 edition of the arts festival. File Pics People tend to forget the role of the Kala Ghoda Association…I was enthused to raise awareness about the heritage buildings in the area, which was appreciated. Many didn’t, and remain unaware that the Kala Ghoda Association raises funds to restore these sites. Right now, we are re-restoring the Bomanjee Hormarjee Wadia Clock Tower, thanks to generous sponsorship. We are happy that people are coming forward to conserve our heritage sites. JSW Foundation has always supported major restorations including the David Sassoon Library, and the Keneseth Eliyahoo Synagogue. Despite slow progress, it’s good that restoration of the Esplanade Mansion — the cast iron marvel — is underway. You are a seasoned celebrated artist too. How do you approach the two roles?I miss art at this time, because I am not able to do any work. Art is my therapy, and is a contrast to my role at KGAF. There, I am dealing with people all the time, but when I paint I am alone in my studio. KGAF 2026 >> Horniman Circle Garden is back as a venue. As a wider community outreach itinerary, there will be performances by Bengali congregations, Marathi and Sindhi groups>> Last year, the steps of the Asiatic Society was revived as a performance venue after four years, thanks to funding>> The second year of the Lifestyle vertical will have a robust programme. Under fashion, expect walks and possibly, a fashion show. Mental wellness will also be addressed in the form of art therapy workshops Quirky Memories from KGAF >> Occasionally, we’d rescue politicians and important guests from DFMDs and security. I had to call someone several times to help me get past security! >> Famous musicians have long lists to feed armies: Red Bull cartons, sandwiches and burgers, dry fruits and nuts>> A drunken showstopper musician could barely perform; he arrived late, and only spoke to the audience!>> A star musician insisted on arriving in a Mini Cooper, so we had to hire one>> As part of his play, a theatre director brought a real horse on stage! - Brinda Miller Milestones >>Two years ago, jazz legend Herbie Hancock performed for us at NCPA, thanks to the US Consulate. >>Ustad Zakir Hussain has performed in the outdoors on several occasions. >> The Bodhi Art Gallery had set up installations across the entire parking lot for an entire year >> Moving the Dance and Music programming to Cross Maidan and the steps of the Asiatic Society, was a blessing in disguise.>> Winning UNESCO Awards of Merit for the restored Mulji Jetha Fountain, Bomanjee Wadia Clock Tower, David Sassoon Library and CSMVS>> Installation of the Spirit of Kala Ghoda statue conceived by Altaf Miller, in 2017>> Better street décor for the 25th edition (2025) gave the festival a new look>> Ongoing pedestrianisation of the inner streets - Brinda Miller
22 December,2025 08:15 AM IST | Mumbai | Fiona FernandezADVERTISEMENT
