If You Plant a SeedKadir Nelson’s book is a warm lesson that begins with an exploration on what happens when one plants tomato and carrot seeds with love. If you plant a carrot seed in time with care, a carrot grows. This turns into a meditation on similar results that young ones can expect from planting emotions. “If you plant a seed of kindness…” Picture books with anthropomorphic characters like mice sharing tomatoes with other animals, or a rabbit and a mouse eating a meal together can also widen the world for babies from an early age. Pics courtesy/Little Bookworm FeelingsBefore we learn the correct words for our feelings, we see their manifestation in our actions. Louise Forshaw’s illustrations open a vast universe of emotions for babies. For instance, a story about little Nur, who is unable to play because she has a fever and must visit the doctor, ends with a question for the reader. Young listeners get to lift the flap and guess how Nur feels by choosing between a gloomy face and a cheerful one. Such books act as visual aids for toddlers to understand their own feelings as well as comprehend those expressed by others. Pic courtesy/Storyweaver The Birthday PartyIn Megha Vishwanath’s wordless picture book resides an endearing tale about a boy who picks up on his mother’s exhaustion after his birthday party. He decides to help her clean up. Introducing stories about offering support to friends and family instil values of generosity and empathy. They develop an ability in little ones to create beautiful and meaningful relationships with those around them. Pic courtesy/davidezrastein.com Please Don’t CryBawling little bears, monkeys, and children appear on the pages of Yusuke Yonezu’s board book. The end, however, is uplifting. Reassurance is a virtue that often feels needed more than its gifted. The writer recognises this and through his soft illustrations, toddlers learn both: to love and be loved. Most Yonezu titles teach compassion. Parents can check out We Love Each Other and Sharing. The Nice BookThe title says it all. The Nice Book by David Ezra Stein is an eloquent journey into finding ways to be good. Words are sparse; small acts evince affection: a cuddle, a nuzzle, a gentle squeeze, a giggle, a pat, an ear to listen, or a hello. Stein’s illustrations show that possibilities of expressing warmth wholeheartedly are endless. Colourful animals wade the pages of the book making it a funny, dynamic, bright, and delightful read. Available at LocalBookstores and e-bookstores Bonus reads>> The Wonderful Things You Will Be by Emily Winfield>> Damayanti the Detective by Niveditha Subramaniam>> The Hugasaurus by Rachel Bright>> Oliver’s Tree by Kit Chase>> Farida Plans a Feast by Maegan Dobson Sippy>> Haru by Manjari Chakravarti
31 May,2024 07:59 AM IST | Mumbai | Nandini VarmaThere are more things keeping this country together than breaking it apart,” shares photographer Karan Khosla, with a certain conviction in his tone over a phone call. Given the current state of affairs in the country, we wonder where Khosla might be drawing his inferences from. The answers to our questions are displayed in the form of 23 vibrant photographs at Khosla’s new exhibition — Where India Dries Its Clothes — an exploration of the shared practice, an equaliser in an unequal society. “There was no masterplan; or a plan at all,” admits 33-year-old Khosla. The photographs of humble clotheslines stretched between trees in backyards and weary pillars in balconies of houses are a culmination of Khosla’s decade-long travels across the country. “As a Mumbai-based freelance photographer, I would spend months travelling with my camera. It was only in 2019 that I realised my photographs had a recurring element, the clotheslines. It slowly evolved from there,” he recalls. Clothes left to dry in the balcony of a home in Bidar, Karnataka The cover photograph of the collection, for instance, reminds Khosla of his trip to Mayurbhanj, Odisha in 2021. “The world’s eyes were on Mayurbhanj. It was witnessing what was possibly its worst forest fire at the time. A little far away, I was able to capture a child playing around a clothesline, seemingly unbothered,” he shares. Another highlight from the collection, and one of the newer photographs, comes from the West Garo Hills in Meghalaya. “Rengrampara, a village nestled in the hills, was to get its first-ever solar electricity station. While I was there to cover it for a magazine, I took a moment from the usual coverage to capture a solitary clothesline with bright flowers in the backdrop. Visually, it’s one of my favourites,” he smiles. Spread across 23 photographs, the exhibition features many such stories encompassing everything from tiger territories in Madhya Pradesh’s Pench to the beach fronts of Goa and the slums of Mumbai. The clothesline that Khosla spotted at the West Garo Hills While throwing light on this shared practice, Khosla tells us that the project also aims to break one in the process. “I hate the Western practice of intruding into the personal lives of the poor and presenting a pitiful picture to grab a few eyeballs. It must be stopped,” he sighs, adding, “There is much more to the country outside the slums of Mumbai and Old Delhi. Not everything needs to be exoticised. There is beauty, in a much deeper sense, in the mundane.” A solitary hut and a clothesline in Pench’s tiger territory To that end, the photographer has laid down a few ground rules for his practice. “All my photographs are captured from the eye level of the subject. The moment you tilt the camera down at your subject, you risk presenting a detached outsider’s gaze. I also try my best to let the subjects know they are being clicked. Surprisingly, India is a camera-friendly country. You don’t have to try hard. A smile and a nod from both parties seals the deal,” he chuckles. A child plays near a clothesline amidst the forest fires in Mayurbhanj As for what the future holds for the project, Khosla hints at a possible photo book featuring the photographs. “The ongoing exhibition is limited by space, and so, many of my works still remain hidden from the public eye. I plan to turn them into a book, chronicling the story behind each photograph in detail. Until then, I will continue to travel with my camera, looking for the next clothesline,” he signs off. Karan Khosla Till June 30; 8 am to 10 pmAt Method Bandra, Pearl Haven Apartments, Chapel Road, Bandra West.
31 May,2024 07:54 AM IST | Mumbai | Devashish KambleOn top of the world Tree Tops is a wholesome, fun, and immersive adventure camp for kids with the idea to become independent and also learn life lessons while in the outdoors. Activities in the 2N/3D trip that will be held in Durshet, include treasure hunt, mini trek, nature trail, zipline, Burma bridge, and a campfire.FROM June 3 COST R8,000 LOG ON TO pugmarks123.com/local-camps/ (for all details) Starry nights Head to this campsite in Bhandardara, that is ideal to spot fireflies. You might also witness celestial spectacles like the Milky Way.ON June 1 onwardsCOST Child (4 to 9 years): Rs 699 (per person); adult (10 years and above): Rs 1,399 (per person) LOG ON TO treksandtrails.org (all details related to the trek) Chirp time in the wild Listen to bird calls in your backyard on a trail organised by Sanjay Gandhi National Park at Tungareshwar Wildlife Sanctuary that will introduce participants to rich avian diversity.ON June 2; 7 am onwardsMEETING POINT Tungareshwar Wildlife Sanctuary entry gate. COST Rs 300 (per head)REGISTER (Email) sgnp.nic.yeur@gmail.com or (WhatsApp/call) 8591382079
30 May,2024 09:20 AM IST | Mumbai | The Guide TeamThursdayWe the people Trace the evolution of India and its people from Independence to the present day at this exhibition of paintings and sculptures. TIME 11 am to 7 pmAT Stranger’s House Gallery, Clark House, Wodehouse Road, Colaba. FridayBehind the laughs Get a peek into the life of a comedian at Manik’s Day Out, a window into a day in the life of Delhi-based comedian Manik Mahna (below). Expect hilarious anecdotes and observations in Manha’s dry, and almost offensive style of comedy.TIME 8 pmAt Backspace, Lodha Boulevard Mall, Majiwada, Thane West. Log on to in.bookmyshow.comENTRY Rs 599 onwards SaturdayPlay for a cause A group of young backpackers lock horns with poachers, the teakwood mafia and villagers to save an endangered wolf in the Satpura region of Madhya Pradesh. Witness the showdown in Trishla Patel’s immersive play, Wolf.Time 11 amAt Prithvi Theatre, Janki Kutir, Juhu. LOG ON TO in.bookmyshow.com ENTRY Rs 350 Paint with the pups Kick-off your weekend in the company of adorable furry friends. This guided yoga and art session with shelter puppies rescued from the streets of Mumbai at Pawga might be the weekday antidote you need.TIME 10.30 am onwardsAt Ministry of New, Kitab Mahal, Azad Maidan, Fort. log on to pawpetsyoga.com COST Rs 850 SundayReady for take-off? Get a fresh perspective from 10,000ft above sea level. This VR-assisted helicopter flying experience will put young aviation enthusiasts in the pilot’s seat.Time 11 am to 7.30 pm At Playseum, Linking Road, Santacruz West. LOG ON TO playseum.inENTRY Rs 1,200 Feast like a Goan You’ll be spoilt for choice at this home-cooked Goan sea food feast featuring delicacies like bangdyache amotik, sungtache hooman, paired with piping-hot poee. Wash it all down with chilled kairi panha and kokum serbat.Time 12.30 pmAT Shivaji Park (details revealed on registration) Log on to @mallikakeerCost Rs 1,600 (per head) In the mood for metal It’ll be pouring metal riffs in the city this weekend. Catch Pune-based thrash metal band Kill The King and Hyderabad-based death metal band Septic Isle live on tour. Time 8 pm onwardsAt The Stables, Peninsula Redpine, Near Airport Road, Andheri East. Log on to in.bookmyshow.com ENTRY Rs 549
30 May,2024 09:18 AM IST | Mumbai | Devashish KambleAmidst the sea of influencers swarming the Cannes 2024 red carpets with their garden variety poofy ball gowns, actor Chhaya Kadam’s appearance stood out for all the right reasons. In her two outings, one in a saree and the other in a more structured jacket and trousers ensemble, Kadam proudly owned her Maharashtrian roots by wearing a traditional nath as a key accessory. The actress wears her mother’s sari and nath at her Cannes debut. Pic courtesy/Getty Images; Instagram “This trend points to the growing popularity of [and acceptance for] traditional jewellery worn in unlikely pairings,” says personal branding expert and image consultant Mihika Bhanot. She adds that while a large nath is best reserved for traditional events or (if you’re among the favoured few) red carpet struts, nose jewellery in its contemporary iterations has been gaining far more favour in recent times, whether for social dos or at the workplace. She shares her tips on acing the trend in style. Kadam (left) with the cast and director at the premiere The perfect shapeAlways remember that a nose pin draws a lot of attention to your face and becomes the focal point of your entire look. If you have a large nose, a smaller pin with a sparkling stone will be your best bet, while a broader nose looks most attractive with a septum piercing. Those with small and pointed noses can wear a simpler pearl or stone design, or even a small hoop. Similarly, if you have a very angular face with strong features, opt for designs that soften the sharpness, advises Bhanot. Sonam Kapoor sports a nath at Cannes 2013 Colour it rightSilver and gold are two popular choices when it comes to nose jewellery — the former is better suited to cooler skin tones while the latter works best if your skin has warm undertones. “Make sure to balance your nose pin or ring with another piece of jewellery. For instance, if you wear a diamond nose pin, wear a bracelet or watch that’s studded with crystals. If your nose jewellery is gold-toned, wear mixed metal bracelets or rings to add some symmetry to your look,” shares Bhanot. She advises steering clear of black nose jewellery which, she says, works on very few face types and skin tones. Mihika Bhanot Start smallIf you’ve never experimented with nose jewellery before, Bhanot suggests first wearing a bindi on your nose to determine the placement, the size and the shape of your piercing. “Gauge how it frames your face and other features, and take the plunge only after you’re completely confident. When picking out your first pieces, remember that rings are easier to clean and maintain, as compared to studs, although studs can be visually less overwhelming. Consider these factors before you take the plunge,” she adds. Florence Pugh wears a septum ring. PICS COURTESY/INSTAGRAM Strike a balanceRemember that your nath or nose ring will be the highlight of the outfit. Keep the rest of your look relatively subtle so that it doesn’t compete with your facial jewellery. Don’t stack on too much jewellery for an everyday look — for instance, large earrings or a chunky ring when paired with nose jewellery can easily overwhelm you. Minimal basic pieces of apparel work best for a fusion look that features a nose ring. Of course, you can go all out for festive or special occasions, Bhanot signs off. Pro tips>> If you are wearing a larger-sized nath, prep with a numbing cream>> Moisturise your nostril well to ease any discomfort while wearing the nath>> Use a piece of double-sided tape when wearing a larger piece. This keeps your nath secure and lends support>> Clear silicone or rubber backings can also help to secure your nath and keep it from slipping off your nose
30 May,2024 09:18 AM IST | Mumbai | Anindita PaulIf you ever grew up as a fan of pulp Hindi cinema, or RD Burman’s music, there is a chance that you would have heard the phrase ‘Jinga la la hoo’ being sung. The chorus of the song, Hum bewafa from the 1970s camp action film, Shalimar, might seem like an embarrassing but funny memory of childhood for many. For many, it is not. Filmmaker Niranjan Kumar Kujur recalls, “It made things difficult for about six or seven years in school.” This unconsciously patronising and occasionally disturbing portrayal of indigenous life on screen will be part of Kujur’s online talk, Adivasi Image in Indian Cinema, today. The talk is hosted by Jehangir Nicholson Arts Foundation (JNAF) with the Tribal Design Forum as part of the exhibition, A Forest In The City. Simi Garewal in Satyajit Ray’s Aranyer Din Ratri Growing up in the Oraon community in Lohardaga in Jharkhand, Kujur often wondered whether the world he grew up in would show up on the big screen. This found further expression at the Satyajit Ray Film and Television Institute (SRFTI) in Kolkata where he was encouraged to tell stories from home. One of the first films where this echo of home found its way on screen was in Ritwik Ghatak’s Ajantrik (1958). “I remember when the first echoes of the tribal songs come through, even before you see the visuals of the community. I felt that they were familiar,” he shares. Ghatak’s film featured songs and visuals inspired by the Oraon tribes. Members from the Oraon community at a gathering Kujur’s 2016 non-feature Edpa Kana (Going Home) won him the National Award for Best Audiography, while another of his works, Pahada, was selected as the official entry for the 49th International Film Festival of India (IFFI). Today, the filmmaker will use this personal lens to look back at portrayals in Indian cinema; few of which stand the test, he admits. “Even the most admired films made on tribals and tribal issues don’t feel satisfying when viewed from the Adivasi perspective,” he says. An example he points out is Satyajit Ray’s famed Aranyer Din Ratri (1970). “The film remains quite popular among Bengalis. But when I watch it, to see Simi Garewal in a black face as she plays a tribal woman; they do not feel right,” the 37-year-old remarks. A scene from Joram by Devashish Makhija They are not always purposely so. He notes Devashish Makhija’s Joram (2023) saying, “It is a good film, and one of the few that tells the story from the perspective of an Adivasi protagonist. But the ornamentation and costumes often feel like they come from a popular notion of the Adivasi.” Then, there is the infamous Shalimar with its portrayal of a dark-skinned, dancing and superstitious tribal community. Niranjan Kumar Kujur The talk will underline the communities viewed through the films. “We will discuss the films mentioned, and also what we are looking for in cinema, and the facets that are absent,” Kujur reveals. Ask him for a film that does a good job, he points to Ghatak’s Ajantrik. “The images you see in the film, with the Adivasis speaking in Oraon dialect, feel like a natural part of life. The framing and compositions also portray them in a very majestic way rather than as an oddity,” he notes. ON Today; 6.30 pmAT Online/ZoomREGISTER @jnafmumbai on Instagram
30 May,2024 09:15 AM IST | Mumbai | Shriram IyengarThe European Championships will head to England this June, and it makes for some celebration. It was while following the Euros in 1996 that I first discovered football. It came in the flashy white with black shoulder patterns of Oliver Bierhoff’s Germany kit. While stores often outfit fans with updated and official kits, it was a delight to discover a store that had something for the fan of vintage merchandise. Indianultras is an online destination for hardcore footie fans with its throwback jerseys from the Milan of Maldini to Ronaldo’s Brazil and, of course, Bierhoff’s Germany to choose from. Log on to: indianultras.com
30 May,2024 09:13 AM IST | Mumbai | Shriram Iyengar1 All of Us Strangers, 2023 In 2003, Wayne Lammers brought out an English translation of the Japanese novel Ijin-Tachi to no Natsu (Strangers). A lonely TV scriptwriter decides to visit his childhood home one day where he had lost his parents. When he returns, he develops an intimate relationship with his neighbour. In the book, the neighbour’s character is written as female, but director Andrew Haigh takes the liberty of casting a male actor to play the neighbour, opening conversations within the story about gender and sexuality.Read: Strangers by Taichi Yamada 2 Turtles All the Way Down, 2024 Pics courtesy/Youtube At the time of writing Turtles All the Way Down, John Green had spoken about dealing with OCD while growing up. He wrote his mental illness into this novel with a lot of difficulty, creating Aza Holmes, a character who suffered from it, too. Holmes and her best friend Daisy are on a quest for the hefty reward money for finding the billionaire Russell Pickett. However, Holmes ends up falling in love with his son. Her OCD becomes very central in the Hannah Marks-directed film as it had kept her from intimacy for a long time.Read: Turtles All the Way Down by John Green 3 Cobalt Blue, 2022 Tanay and Anuja, two siblings, fall in love with the same person, who comes to stay as their paying guest in Pune. Readers get to read both perspectives as Kundalkar lays them out through the two voices in his 2006 Marathi novel. The novelist adapted the story for the screen by Kundalkar more recently. It takes us into the heart of a queer relationship unfolding against the background of a traditionally heteronormative and conservative Indian family.Read: Cobalt Blue by Sachin Kundalkar (translated by Jerry Pinto) 4 The Taste of Things, 2023 Depicting love between couples in their 50s (and beyond) is a rarity on screen even today. Set in 1880s France, Tran Ang Hung’s film manages to shift the lens and show the tender relationship between Dodin, a gastronome, and Eugénie, his most glorious cook. The film’s opening is like a dance, a true feast to the eyes, as one witnesses the workings of a kitchen. What’s really special about the film though is that it is a photograph of love caught in the later stages of life, as it strengthens, withstanding many hardships over the years.Read: The Passionate Epicure by Marcel Rouff 5 Red, White & Royal Blue, 2023 With international relations at stake, the royalty in the US and Britain attempt to sell a narrative of friendship between the first son of the United States, Alex Clairemont-Diaz, and a British prince, Prince Henry, after pictures of their confrontation are published. However, this soon blossoms into a love story between the two men. The film (see left) by Matthew Lopez is a nuanced adaptation of the 2019 novel by the same name. Read: Red, White & Royal Blue by Casey McQuiston
29 May,2024 09:48 AM IST | Mumbai | Nandini VarmaSleight of hand. Distraction. Illusions. In the cynical world coloured by modern technology, the simple illusion of magic no longer holds the same sway. Yet, there is a new genre that has emerged and is slowly capturing the attention of the modern audience — mentalism. From names such as Lior Suchard to Suhani Shah, there is a list of personalities who can take an audience by the hand and cast a spell using simple games of prediction, premonition and precognition. On June 2, Sharman Joshi, actor, will join mentalist Bhupesh Dave in a show titled Braintertainers that seeks to enchant as much as arouse curiosity. In a moment from the rehearsal The curiosity, for this writer at least, was triggered by Joshi’s presence on the show. The 3 Idiots actor who played Raju Rastogi in the cult flick, is remembered for his versatile screen personas, and not as a performer of mental tricks. “It was an interest that began when I attended Dave’s show six years ago,” Joshi recalls. As a guest, he found it fascinating that an individual could read the audience so well, and in so short a time. “I wanted to learn more about how he read people and his performance methods,” he says. And so, over many meetings, and a long hiatus during the pandemic, the actor signed up for an internship to learn the craft behind the art. But how does one go from being in a Raju Hirani film to studying expressions? “Curiosity,” laughs Joshi. Dave recalls, “I showed him only a few techniques of gauging and identifying signals in the beginning, but he went on to do his own research and would come back with some very interesting approaches and questions. That got me thinking if he should pursue this more seriously.” After four months of intense training and workshopping, the duo is all set to bring their first show to the Mumbai stage this weekend. The two performers work the details with their team While the genre has been popular — finding its way to television through series such as Psych, Sherlock and even the eponymous, The Mentalist — Dave is keen to point out that there is a key difference between magicians and mentalists. “It is the highest form of magic. Mentalists work with mental illusions, i.e. studying behavioural patterns, body languages and facial expressions.” Before he turned to mentalism, Dave was a Civil Services aspirant, and even cleared the state exams in 1986. “I took mentalism up as a profession in late 1988-89,” he shares. Since then, he has been constantly learning, adapting and evolving new techniques. These understandings offer insight into the one common factor that has remained unchanged — human behaviour. For Joshi, this was the common plane between theatrical acting and stage illusion. “As an actor, we are as much readers of people’s behaviour as anyone else. The elements of the performance also overlap. Moreover, I was drawn to the immense amount of concentration and skill required,” Joshi reveals. Tricks is a rather simplistic term for something that happens so quickly; it feels instinctive. “I watch and read people from the minute they are in front of me. Whether they choose a black marble or a white one, are lying or not, it all comes across in facial features, ticks and behavioural patterns. It is not an exact science, and even I make mistakes. The trick is to tide over the mistakes with showmanship,” he laughs. The duo debuted the show for students at SKC College in Vasai earlier this year. “I was still unsure of myself in front of people, despite being an actor for so long. Dave suggested this was the best way to gain that confidence. Now, I have it,” Joshi remarks. The Mumbai show will mark the beginning of a tour that will see the duo take to stages across the country and perform. “The 21st century is a digital age, and how we do is just as important as what we do. In fact, in some cases, the trick is not so important as the presentation,” shares Dave. ON June 2; 4 pm and 7 pmAT Tata Theatre, NCPA, Nariman Point. LOG ON TO in.bookmyshow.com COST Rs 250 onwards
29 May,2024 09:32 AM IST | Mumbai | Shriram IyengarWhile the city was caught up in the IPL knockouts and finals last weekend, Borussia Dortmund (BVB) and Real Madrid fans had their own nail-biting showdown. A friendly encounter between Borussia Dortmund Supporters Club Mumbai and Pena Madridista De Bombay, the two official fan clubs, built the anticipation for their clubs’ upcoming clash in the finals on June 1. Even as Madrid fans emerged victorious at the local turf in Juhu, the question remains: which way will fortune sway at Wembley this weekend? The UCL trophy. PIC COURTESY/WIKEMIDA COMMONS Club comes first It will be interesting to see Toni Kroos’ last hurrah on the biggest stage. A key factor could also be whether Carlo Ancelotti plays Andriy Lunin or Thibaut Courtois in goal. Ancelotti has stated that he considers Courtois the best in the world, but he’s coming back from the injury. I’m hoping whoever plays has a good game, and doesn’t make a name for himself for the wrong reasons. My eyes are on Mats Hummels. He is no spring chicken; he’s been here before and knows the pressure of a big game. If he has a masterclass to display and is able to keep our forwards quiet, it will give BVB a chance. Matchday ritual: For years, I’ve considered myself the jinx. I leave for a movie, a stand-up comedy show, or someplace where I can’t see the match as soon as it begins. I watch the replay the next day. Prediction: Borussia Dortmund 1-3 Real Madrid Jitesh Shahani, 34, founder, Peña Madridista De Bombay Defence for the win The club has been criticised online before every game only for each win to be chalked off as a lucky win after the game. This UCL run is anything but lucky. The defence has been rock-solid, and we have wingers who close down the flanks with their respective full backs, and that’s one area I will be looking into the most. It has been said far too often: attack wins you games, defence wins you titles. I would love to see Marco Reus and Jadon Sancho rip open the Madrid defence in the second half but that will depend on manager Edin Terzić and his substitutions. I hope that the players soak up the atmosphere and play without pressure, it wasn’t easy getting to the finals. Matchday ritual: A Reus jersey, BVB scarf, with the lyrics to ‘Ole Jetz Kommt der BVB’ memorised. It’s going to be a glorious day. Prediction: Borussia Dortmund 2-1 Real Madrid Kaustubh Rane, 29, PhD student Rise in silence Every football enthusiast doubted the fate of the club this season. After a slow start, Dortmund emerged from the bottom of the group to eventually topping the group, surprising everyone in the process. More than individual brilliance, our boys fought as a team to secure an entry into the finals. The duel between Mats Hummels and Vinicius Jr will be very interesting. With the experience of Hummels keeping fast players like Kylian Mbappe at bay in the past and the dynamism of Vinicius, I am looking forward to the clash of the two powerhouses. Matchday ritual: I will wear my club jersey and watch the game in the comfort of my home with a few colleagues and pretend that the stakes are low to save myself from the disappointment in case things don’t go our way. Prediction: Borussia Dortmund 1–0 Real Madrid Mayank Pachauri, 30, consultant No weak links Toni Kroos in his 10th, and now what we’ve come to know as his final year not just at our club but also for the game has been in some of the best forms of his life, cutting through defence lines with just one single pass and orchestrating our entire game from the middle. Brazilian duo Vinicius Jr and Rodrygo has been sensational on the wings, while the defensive partnership of Dani Carvajal and Antonio Rudiger has been solid. Their coordination and experience will be essential in keeping Dortmund’s attackers at bay. Matchday ritual: Before every match, I call my father or any immediate family member and say “Real Madrid is going to win tonight” three times in a row. It seems to have worked well. Prediction: Borussia Dortmund 0–3 Real Madrid Nakshatra Jadhav, 27, technical director Crack this footie quiz Borussia Dortmund fans hold up the team flag at a meet-up 1 The UEFA Champions League (UCL) was formerly called X before its rebranding in the year Y. What are X and Y?2 The iconic UEFA Champions League Anthem is written in three languages. Can you name them?3 The list of most appearances in UCL matches is topped by Cristiano Ronaldo, while Lionel Messi takes the third spot. Which player holds the second spot?4 When was the last time a German side played a Spanish side in a UCL final?5 Which manager has won the highest number of UCL titles. (Bonus points if you can name the teams.) Zinedine Zidane at the 2002 finals; (right, in black) Carlo Ancelotti Archil Sahu, Pena Madridista De Bombay3.5/5European Cup. I’m not sure which yearEnglish, German and FrenchIker CasillasNot sureCarlo Ancelotti with AC Milan and Real Madrid Sanket S Gaonkar, BVB Mumbai2.5/5I don’t knowNo ideaIker CasillasReal Madrid in 2002, but I can’t recall the opponentsCarlo Ancelotti with AC Milan and Real Madrid Correct answers:1. European Cup and 1992, 2. English, German, and French, 3. Iker Casillas, 4. Real Madrid vs Bayer Leverkusen in 2002, 5. Carlo Ancelotti with AC Milan (2003, 2007) and Real Madrid (2014, 2022) Catch the match Real Madrid fans cheer for the team at a previous official screening of a football match >> TAP RestobarAt Juhu; Bandra and Andheri.Call 42631000 >> The Studs - Sports Bar and GrillAt Unit 2, Centrum IT Park, Wagle Industrial Estate, Thane West. 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28 May,2024 09:29 AM IST | Mumbai | Devashish KambleFor fashion-loving celebrity mums-to-be (Rihanna, we’re looking at you), maternity wear has been taking on a bold, sexy new avatar — tight, sleek and bump-highlighting fits. While they are awe-inspiring, they also can be quite impractical for Mumbai mums-to-be, especially in our hot and muggy summers. And so, actor Deepika Padukone’s decision to favour flowing, loose garments with forgiving waistlines and more relaxed cuts seems like a much-needed breath of fresh air. Although decidedly streamlined with a more feminine view of maternity clothing, her looks have been inspiring women across the city to choose chic comfort with confidence, all over again. Alia Bhatt in a wrap dress; (right) Richa Chadha wears a co-ord set “Comfort remains the top priority during pregnancy, which makes most women opt for clothing that marries form with function. The cut, waistline and choice of fabric should be important considerations when you pick out your maternity wardrobe,” explains Sonal Kharade, a costume designer. She, and stylist Amrita Saluja, offer a few tips to keep hot mamas feeling cool! >> Cuts to accentuateSoft breathable fabrics such as muslin, cotton and linen are no-brainers in this regard, says Saluja. “Opt for maxi dresses or jumpsuits with a low crotch in these fabrics, or pick out comfortable co-ord sets in a relaxed fit,” she advises. Kharade recommends fit-and-flare or A-line dresses that look sharp without compromising on comfort. She notes that petite women will look best in a wrap style or a dress with an empire waist that sits right below the bust. These, she says, lengthen your frame and accentuate the narrowest part of your torso, without engulfing you in swathes of fabric. Further, pleated, mid-length skirts are especially popular this year, and can be easily styled up or down, depending on the occasion. >> Make a statement“Don’t be afraid to experiment with prints and stripes, and add plenty of accessories to make your look truly your own. Pick either your wrist or neck to create a statement look. If you are wearing anything with long sleeves, pull them up so that your wrists are visible. Similarly, wear slightly cropped pants that expose your ankles — this adds definition,” Saluja explains. Amrita Saluja and Sonal Kharade >> Ace the athleisure lookMaternity activewear is a growing market segment, patronised by women who want to look chic, keep active and stay comfortable. When shopping, opt for styles that offer tummy support and look for softer, more breathable fabrics that offer just the right amounts of compression,” suggests Kharade. If you are a more adventurous dresser, opt for a unitard or a jumpsuit, layered with an oversized button-up shirt. >> Go big on accessoriesChunky sneakers, big bags, wrists layered with accessories, and cute hair bands and big scrunchies are all easy ways to dress up your pregnancy, says Saluja. As a pro tip, Kharade suggests wearing bump-supporting shorts underneath your dresses and skirts to help with back pain.
28 May,2024 09:27 AM IST | Mumbai | Anindita PaulADVERTISEMENT
