ThursdayFeel the colours Start your weekend with a dash of colour at this healing session where you will use your bare hands as tools to understand brain-hand coordination.Time 2.30 pmAT Khar West (location revealed on confirmation). Log on to insider.in Cost Rs 1,350 (including equipment) FridayJoin the revolution Pic courtesy/Youtube Join fellow eco-warriors to understand the dangers of the industrial seed corporations through cinema in The Seeds of Vandana Shiva. Time 7.30 amAT Harkat Studios, Versova, Andheri West. Log on to townscript.comCost Rs 250 onwards Craft your future Spend the weekend with friends, as you turn the clock back to design creative vision boards to set meaningful goals for your future.Time 6 pmAt Greenr Cafe, Bhulabhai Desai Marg, Cumballa Hill. Log on to insider.inCost Rs 1,099 onwards SaturdayLEGO of all worries Pics Courtesy/Instagram Give your child a chance to explore their imagination this weekend as Legoland arrives in the suburb of Thane. AGE GROUP Four and aboveTILL May 26; 11 am onwardsAt Viviana Mall, Eastern Express Highway, next to Jupiter hospital, Thane West.Log on to in.bookmyshow.comCOST Rs 299 onwards Laugh with satirists The complex structures of caste, oppression, poverty and absurdity emerge through the tale of a garlic seller. Time: 6 pm; 8.30 pmAt Veda Factory, Four Bungalows, Andheri West. Call 9958624306Log on to in.bookmyshow.comCost Rs 300 onwards SundayCelebrate a fiesta Kick-start your Sunday with a burst of energy with the flavours from Mexico. From epic recipes such as chipotle tiger prawns and lamb chili chilaquiles (below) paired with the magic of cocktails like the refresco de flor. Time 12 pm to 4 pm At Pompa, Linking Road, Bandra West. Call 9594131256 Read with the author Join Geetha K and Philip George (right) as they take readers on a trip through George’s autobiography, Racket Boy.Time 11.30 amAt Iteeha Coffee, behind Famous Studio, Mahalaxmi West. Log on to @paperbacktalksENTRY (registration mandatory)
16 May,2024 09:23 AM IST | Mumbai | Shriram IyengarEarlier this month, a 24-year-old man lost his life and his friend was severely injured while jumping from a height of 120 ft into a plunge pool in Dabhosa in Palghar district. The inspector-in-charge at the nearby police station where the incident was reported, said that the water levels were low in the plunge pool and that this could have been a possible factor for the death. With the monsoon expected to arrive next month, and the trekking season in Maharashtra all set to pick up, it is important to adhere to basic safety guidelines and ask the right questions before you set out on your next adventure. Access management systems “India has no access management systems. No matter how long or short the duration of a trek is, operators must have the correct permits. This becomes a form of access management. While guidelines are in place, in certain places, there are still many gaps in the system. We must first acknowledge the gap and then work on it. If they don’t have registration, operators should not be allowed to conduct any commercial adventure travel activity,” says Vaibhav Kala, vice-president, Adventure Tour Operators Association of India (ATOAI). “If it’s an established picnic spot or a trail that the government knows is witnessing traffic, is there nobody to tell trekkers what the code of conduct needs to be? In the case of plunge pools, for example, a risk assessment has to be done to record what the water levels are and whether it is safe to dive or not. Every activity must have risk assessment and a system to authenticate, authorise, and audit access, which is largely missing,” Kala explains. Vaibhav Kala The ATOAI works closely with the industry and the governments at the central and state levels, to advocate policies, study trends and create a safe environment for participants in adventure activities across 31 verticals. They have worked with the Central Ministry of Tourism to help formulate a national strategy for adventure tourism, which will, hopefully, encompass access management for commercial operations and this will hopefully be implemented soon. Planning ahead Jaya Balakrishna, ex-Indiahikes trek leader and a passionate hiker, believes that risk management and preparing ahead is key to avoid unhappy accidents. “Assessing hazards and developing situational awareness is the first and foremost thing to do when outdoors. Most times, safety doesn’t surface in conversations regarding a trek. This doesn’t mean that safety isn’t important. But safety means “freedom from harm”— it implies a guarantee that no one can undertake, especially in the wilderness. Instead of focusing solely on safety, we should focus on the idea that, while we can’t guarantee safety in the wilderness, we can learn to manage risk and minimise the likelihood of a serious incident. You can prepare yourself to respond to these types of events by having a solid trip plan before you go,” Balakrishna points out. “Courses like Wilderness First Responder help bring awareness and the hands-on experience with mock accidents and the first aid training imparted help to those in the outdoors to survive the wilderness,” she adds. The social media trap According to Yogesh Umbre, a professional rock climber, mountaineer, and part of the rescue operation team at Shivdurga Mitra Lonavala since 2008, many accidents these days have been caused because trekkers are trying to impress their social media followers. “In the recent past, we have seen incidents where trekkers deliberately take more risks to get more viewership and likes on their social media content. They also seem to lose concentration and focus all their attention on getting the perfect selfies. If the same attention was paid to safety, many accidents could have been avoided. Some trekkers follow other ‘influencers’ and set off on a trek without much knowledge about the place. They head to a destination without preparation, because it looks good and pay no attention to details,” Umbre warns. Seasoned trekkers and expert guides share their safety checklists: You come first Know yourself. It’s always good to fairly assess your capabilities before signing up for an adventure. This includes checking with your doctor about medical conditions. Don’t push yourself to do something that you are not prepared for, physically or mentally. >> Answer some vital questions: does the trek require preparation beforehand? What’s the best packing list for that terrain/weather? Have you been in that environment before and if not, what is the best way to adapt? >> “There is no such thing as bad weather, only bad gear”, is a motto I swear by. It’s always good to have high-quality gear that will protect you in adverse weather and terrain. >> Learn basic outdoor skills — consuming enough energy by ensuring enough carbs and protein intake, going slow and steady, navigation skills, and setting up camp before sunset are some of the key skills. Shikha Tripathi, travel writer and founder, Snowfox Escapes Attention to detail >> Do thorough research about the place you are heading to. Secure details about water resources, camping spots and cliffs. Be aware of the entry and exit points. >> Avoid venturing alone; taking a local guide is helpful. >> Keep track of the time. Begin and end early. >> Download offline maps if available (Gaia, Wikiloc, Strava are some good apps to install) >> For forest and jungle trails, learn about its wildlife and their movement beforehand. Also, forest permissions/permits are a must. Meghna Kushalappa, founder, Treks n Tales Group decisions >> If you’re climbing high peaks, be aware of the timing of afternoon thunderstorms. If you’re heading for a hike, study trail conditions so you can plan ahead for a route that’s muddy or slippery. >> Discuss expectations as a team. It’s easy to assume that you and your friends have similar expectations and training, or that you think about risk in the same way. In reality, you are likely to find important differences that you may need to consider. >> In group treks, check if everyone understands the plan and can implement it. If only one person has first-aid training, and that person gets injured, what’s your back-up? It is also a great time to check your first-aid kit to make sure your supplies are well-stocked. Jaya Balakrishna, professional trekker and group leader When it rains >> It’s a common sight in the monsoon to see people wearing sandals and rubber chappals while trekking in the Sahyadris. This can be dangerous. Proper clothing and shoes play an important role in ensuring safety on treks. >> Avoid the selfie obsession while trekking. Take photos while resting or camping but keep both hands free while climbing. >> Carry a small laminated note with emergency contact details During day treks, share your live location with a friend or family member who isn’t on the trek with you. >> Almost all lakes, especially near Pune and Mumbai, are strictly no-swimming zones because most of them are backwaters of dams and hence, have undercurrents. Do not swim in any water body in the monsoon. Members of the Shivdurga Mitra Lonavala participate in a rescue training session at Chhatrapati Sambhaji Nagar >> Don’t disturb wildlife, especially snakes during forest trails. Most people aren’t aware of the difference between a non-venomous rat snake and a highly venomous Russell’s viper. >> Most forts have a main route with a staircase leading up; many don’t, and those are best avoided. >> Carry at least 4 litres of water in the summer Saptarishi Bhattacharya, seasoned trekking and wildlife enthusiast Local knowledge is key >> Study weather conditions/predictions before a trip. Trained climbers avoid summertime in Maharashtra due to severe heat. Honeybees are more active and aggressive in summer, especially during treks around forts. >> Carry a first-aid kit, but also have knowledge of how to use it. >> Seek help of local villagers as they are familiar with the terrain, can warn you of risks and help during rescues. Carry contact details of rescue teams. >> Always carry a working SIM card; be sure of which network works best in that region. >> For waterbodies, one must know basic swimming. Non-swimmers should strictly avoid diving and swimming. Collect data about water depth, currents and tides. Yogesh Umbre, professional climber and rescue expert Sign up for these treks >> Wander the night Take a trip through the magical fort of Harihar and its history on this night and day trek.ON May 18; 9.30 pm MEETING POINT CSMT Station. LOG ON TO bhatakna.comCOST Rs 499 onwards >> Delight in natureA nature lover’s favourite, the Bhimashankar sanctuary is filled with majestic hikes.ON June 15MEETING POINT Neral station. LOG ON TO hikerwolf.com COST Rs 1,999 onwards >> Walk in the clouds End the weekend amidst the clouds with a trek to Kalsubai, the highest point in the Sahyadris. ON May 18 and 25MEETING POINT Kasara Railway Station.CALL 8799856476 LOG ON TO maharashtragadkille.com COST Rs 1,299 (includes transport and accommodation) >> Dive in for funJoin experienced trekkers as they set off for an adventure to the Kal Mandavi water fall to bring the summer to a close. ON May 19 Meeting Point Pritam Dhaba, Dadar East. LOG ON TO adventuregeek.in CALL 9004675388COST Rs 1,199 onwards Compiled by Shriram Iyengar and Devashish Kamble
16 May,2024 09:22 AM IST | Mumbai | Suprita MitterIn the 1970s, Sandeep Manchekar was your typical schoolboy exploring suburban life in a quiet neighbourhood of Goregaon. If one thing set Manchekar apart; it was his unconventional passion for pottery, one that he kindled by moulding tiny pots at the age of 10. At Studio White & Gray in Byculla this weekend, you might catch glimpses of the young, enthusiastic boy in the now 56-year-old ceramic arts veteran, as he plays with fire to introduce the city to Raku, an ancient, complex, and high-stakes Japanese form of pottery. Manchekar recalls his first tryst with Raku in 1989, fresh out of Sir JJ School of Art where he pursued a diploma in arts and ceramics. Ullas Karde, a veteran ceramic artist from Bengaluru was visiting Kumbharwada, the potters’ cluster in Dharavi, to demonstrate Raku techniques. “I was drawn to the complexities and intricate designs that emerged from the process. I wanted to master it.” A traditional Japanese mask created using the Raku techniques Raku, however, is not a passion suited for the faint hearted. Manchekar spent the next two decades learning the art through extensive reading and practical sessions senior ceramic artists like Nirmala Patwardhan. “Raku kilns can reach temperatures of 1,000-degree Celsius within an hour during the firing process. Pulling them out to cool them, avoiding breakages, is the acid test of a ceramic artist. It is only by experience and practice that you ace the timing, and handling techniques,” he reveals. Through the workshops beginning this weekend, Manchekar will aim to share his learnings from the past 30 years with participants in the studio’s safe, controlled environment. “The spontaneity of the art form keeps me coming back, and makes Raku stand out from anything else I have ever practised,” remarks Manchekar over a phone call from his studio in Indapur in Pune district, where he currently resides along with his creations. This spontaneity, we learn, comes from a process called reduction that uses combustible materials like saw dust and newspapers to cool down the ceramics. “No matter how good you get at predicting these designs with time, the process will always surprise you with unique patterns,” he explains. Raku cups Leading up to the workshops where participants will be guided in bringing the art form to life from scratch, the artiste gives us a glimpse of what the rewards of this laborious task look like. “Tiny cracks often appear on the clay and the glaze as a result of the rapid heating and cooling effect. These cracks complement the unruly designs, and what you have is a Raku ware, only one of its kind,” Manchekar shares. For Gourmoni Das, multimedia artist and co-founder of the studio, the workshop marks another checkpoint on his way to introduce novel practices to the city’s small, but steadily growing community of enthusiasts. “Experienced veterans in the arts, like Manchekar, are ready to share their insights. We strive to provide them the right platform and bridge the gap between them and the learners,” he elaborates. ON May 18,19 and 25; 10 am and 2 pmAT Studio White & Gray, The Great Eastern Mill, Byculla East. LOG ON TO @studio_whiteandgray COST Revealed on request
16 May,2024 09:20 AM IST | Mumbai | Devashish KambleStaying committed to your fitness goals can be especially difficult when the weather isn’t cooperating and the incessant heat has you feeling drained and exhausted even before you make your way to the gym. On days like these, say experts, home workouts can be a meaningful compromise. To really take your home routines to the next level, they suggest syncing your workouts to a fitness app that enables you to switch up your routine, track your progress and tailor your exercise plan, without having to expose yourself to the elements. Shivali Chatterjee “What makes fitness apps a viable alternative is the sheer variety of workouts they offer. Many apps also enable you to become a part of a fitness community, pair you up with a fitness partner and let you compare your progress with your peers, to make you more accountable and to gamify workouts. This can help to keep you motivated and be that dose of inspiration you need on days you’re feeling especially sluggish,” notes Jashan Vij, a health and fat loss coach. He, and other fitness professionals, share apps that you can use to keep yourself fit and active, regardless of where you are. Best from yogaFor yoga educator Shivali Chatterjee, this app stands out because of the range of instructors it allows access to. “Each instructor has a different teaching style, so you can easily find a practice that best suits you,” she explains. The app offers lessons for all levels of learners — from basic stretching to beginner sessions to routines for advanced learners looking for a bit of a challenge. Recco: Alo Yoga app It’s a HIITThis free app is hailed for its intuitive interface and lets users browse through various routines depending on the type of workout they’re after as well as what equipment they have at hand. For Avinash Mansukhani, a body re-composition and transformation specialist, this app is an ideal choice for those looking for HIIT (high intensity interval training) routines, in a quick, apartment-friendly format.Recco: Nike Training Club app Asanas for all“I’ve found Akshar Yoga’s channel to be exceptional due to its diverse range of yogic practices, including yoga asanas, meditation and pranayamas, along with insightful guidance on when to practice each. The depth of knowledge and presentation of information is truly remarkable,” says Chatterjee. The channel comprises podcasts, exercises and insightful Q&A sessions to make for an immersive and educative yoga platform.Recco: The Akshar Yoga channel Avinash M Adaptive and flexibleThis app offers personalised coaching by assigning you a (paid) fitness coach who will create your individualised diet and exercise regimen. The app, which evolved from a community-based platform, is flexible and adaptive — in that, you can continue to use it even after you rejoin the gym by modifying your workout routine, says Vij. The addition of a supportive community makes the endeavour a positive, uplifting one.Recco: Fittr app Jashan Vij Options galoreAn integrative health app that encompasses multiple types of workout classes, from dance and yoga to strength, this app stands out because of its proprietary energy meter, which allows users to track exactly how much energy they’ve expended during a workout, says Vij. What also sets this app apart is the option for members to join a live class and visit a fitness centre near them for a quick HRX, boxing or dance fitness session (time and weather permitting). Recco: Cult.fit app Log on to: App Store; Play Store
15 May,2024 09:31 AM IST | Mumbai | Anindita PaulA Multilingual poetry event will celebrate the 163rd birth anniversary of Nobel laureate late (below) Rabindranath Tagore. Divided into two sections — recorded and live performances, the highlight of this gathering is that it invites poets who have translated Tagore’s works in their mother tongue. For the recorded section, Luz Maria Lopez will recite a poem in Spanish, while Longbir Terang will read out a poem in his native language, Karbi. In another special recorded session, Dr Radha Kumar will merge spoken word with performing arts. Witness live performances in French, Marathi, Urdu, Sindhi, and Bengali. On: May 18, 4 pm onwards At: Who are we Hall, first floor, Discovery of India Building, Nehru Centre, Worli. Email: nehrucentrelibrary@gmail.com
15 May,2024 09:28 AM IST | Mumbai | The Guide TeamFamiliarity in the unlikeliest of places can be a delight. It evokes a sense of belonging; the memory of an invisible bond that connects individuals. The first sound of the nadaswaram in the single Yazhiha by Vidya Iyer AKA Vidya Vox hit this writer with such an evocation. The wind instrument pops up in the track that marks the finale of the singer’s latest EP Sundari; a product of ‘healing and self-discovery’ as she puts it. The six-track EP that was released on April 10 marks a return for the Los Angeles-based singer after her last major collection, Mad Dreams in 2019. She is quick to point out that she has been busy with releases in Thalaivi (2020) and more recently, Shubha mangalyam (2023) and Kakarattan (2023), albeit singles. While many of her songs in the past, starting from her debut EP Kuthu Fire (2016), did have elements of empowerment and independence, they felt “Thalaivi was the first instance that was directly inspired by my grandmother. I took the pandemic to delve deeper into my past. I wanted my next record to be inspired by my mother,” she says. The result is a compilation that is shaped by a deep emotional core. From the struggle of her mother’s domestic abuse, a divorce and successful rise as an independent parent and woman, the EP delves into some key moments. Iyer agrees, adding, “As an adult, I now understand how hard it must have been; the resilience she had to show for raising two girls in a country that was fairly new to her.” Then, came the matter of coming to terms with expressing it. “There was definitely a little bit of hesitation. But talking about that stuff was important. I had to remind people that I had grown up with it, and they have led to positive things. My melodies have been inspired by them. It [the EP] felt like peeling off a layer of the onion peel to get to the core,” she admits. The past also informs several elements of the music, such as the Tamil verses by lyricist Madhan Karky. “I wanted the lyrics to be mainly in my mother tongue, Tamil. We really pored over the words and went back and forth to find the right emotions,” Iyer recalls. This also carries into the music. Whether it is the mridangam in Ini ninte lokam/Go off, the thapattai in Sundari or the nadaswaram in Yazhiha, the music consciously sends out markers of the singer’s South Indian heritage. Of these, this writer is partial towards Yazhiha for its upbeat, vibrant blend of instrumentation and lyrics; a medley of Tamil rap with Carnatic classical elements. The other captivating track is the unapologetic, sassy Dangerous with Nikhita Gandhi adding to the attitude through elements of hip-hop. The tracks build up to a sense of rebellious independence and self-discovery. With Shankar Tucker bringing in his nous of production, the soundscape is vibrant and different to any of her past works. “It was an intentional ordering of the songs, lyrical themes and transitions,” she reveals. It seems like a long journey from creating covers and mash-ups to diving into production. “It has been fascinating. I have been learning through the process,” she reveals. The EP also feels like a release of pent-up emotions. “I need something lighter to work on for my next record,” she laughs. While she is already sampling disco bytes, Iyer shares that Sundari remains a core of herself as an artiste. “I think I have found my most authentic self as an artiste with this record. It contains elements of all the lessons I have learned through my journey, the musical ideas, stylistic elements, and emotions. I needed to experience all of it to arrive at this place,” she observes. But India is not far from her mind. “I hope to return to performing some of the songs live and connecting with people. Perhaps, later this year,” she concludes. That should be some homecoming. Log on to: Sundari on Spotify; iTunes
15 May,2024 09:25 AM IST | Mumbai | Shriram IyengarClassics on the keys Tune into an evening of Western classical music with Italian concert pianist (right) Sergio De Simone. The critically acclaimed maestro will breathe life into compositions including Chopin, Polish folk inspired melodies, Schumann’s romantic compositions on the keys and Beethoven’s smooth and sustained melodies.ON May 15; 7 pm AT Royal Opera House, Girgaon. LOG ON TO insider.in Memories of pop Dance like it’s the 2010s at British-Irish pop band The Wanted’s debut show in India. The quartet will revisit the boyband craze with radio anthems like Glad you came and Chasing the sun that took the Internet by storm in 2012.ON May 17; 6.30 pm onwardsAT Dublin Square, Phoenix MarketCity, Kurla West. LOG ON TO gighub.inENTRY Rs 999 onwards Feeling folksy Catch British singer, songwriter and musician Ben Howard in an intimate live-setup concert. The 2013 Brit Award winner in the British male solo artist, and British breakthrough act categories, will perform hits like Walking Backwards and Days of Lantana from his latest album, Is It? that marks his foray into textured, experimental pop songs.ON May 17; 8 pm onwards AT Famous Studios, Dr E Moses Road, Gandhi Nagar, Mahalakshmi. LOG ON TO skillboxes.com ENTRY Rs 1,999 onwards From Mumbai to Madagascar Madagascar - A Musical Adventure is an adaptation of the animated motion picture Madagascar. Meet Alex the Lion, Marty the Zebra, Melman the Giraffe, Gloria the hip-hip Hippo and, of course, the hilarious, plotting penguins as they take you for the musical adventure.ON May 18, 5.30 pm; May 19, 11.30 am and 4 pmAT Royal Opera House, Girgaon.LOG ON TO in.bookmyshow.comCost Rs 400 onwards A fantastical realm In this post-modern two-hourlong Marathi play, Golkonda Diamonds, two people find themselves in a mysterious realm with no apparent exit during a train journey. ON May 19, 3 pmAT NCPA, Nariman Point.LOG ON TO in.bookmyshow.comCost Rs 350 Steps to an apology In the play The Apology, a student crafts a self-apology from her Guru only to be set free through classical dance.ON May 18, 6 pmAT Veda Blackbox by Veda Factory, Andheri West. LOG ON TO insider.inCost Rs 300
14 May,2024 09:30 AM IST | Mumbai | The Guide TeamTweens (pre-teenage years) are known to be a transformative phase when adorable, innocent children turn into mini monsters. They run around the neighbourhood ringing doorbells for sheer fun, mimic angry adults until they give up, or even swear to hate a certain vegetable and every one of the opposite sex for life. Tweens, as experts suggest, are when children start shaping their opinions, dreams, likes and preferences. It is only natural then, filmmaker and photographer Aman Chotani says, for them to be wary of anyone who doesn’t fit into the box of their newly formed ideals and values. “No matter what you do, children will pull another child’s leg,” Chotani shares. But where does one draw the line? “When they start becoming mean,” he responds. The video podcast is a game show that aims to shed light on children’s mental health Chotani’s new venture into his passion for filmmaking is a video podcast, A Mean Show. Here, he invites children to have candid conversations with him and play games. The underlying aim, however, is to create a mental health show. “As a child, I would stammer. And even though it made me strong, I was subject to intense bullying from children my age. Now that we are in the podcast era, I want to use this power of storytelling to spread awareness, and subtly ask kids to be kind to each other,” the host, who also recently became a parent, reveals. The seven-episode series is directed by Chetan Kumar and produced by Pallavi Arora. Each episode features one child. They are introduced as awesome Ashvik, amazing Aarna, rocking Ranveer or magical Myra, among others. The children begin by talking about their dreams — Yajat Kumar, for instance, wants to become an astronaut. He loves the movie Interstellar, and firmly believes that Neil Armstrong’s first-ever spaceship to land on the moon was created because he stole a surefire idea from the Russians. The sixth grader wishes to visit Japan, a tech-advanced country which is also home to anime. Chotani expresses his will to do the same, and hopes the two meet again in the future in Japan. Shivanika Raghav explains concepts like anxiety, multiple intelligence and screen time; (right) Yajat Kumar After a round of rapid fire, where Kumar associates the word wars with guns and siblings with wars, Chotani asks if the science enthusiast has ever been bullied. “Yes, sometimes,” Kumar admits. It has to do with the kid’s changing physique; his friends call him fat, a dog who barks when he defends himself and how one day, his big brain will explode. Kumar’s response to these comments that wins over Chotani and this writer. “I feel that I should be quiet because if I do that, they will get bored, and eventually stop talking about me,” he says. The episodes also feature special educator and art therapist Shivanika Raghav, who explains in two minutes concepts like anxiety, multiple intelligence and screen time. With each episode nearly 10-minutes-long, the podcast is a fun mix of games, banter and heartfelt conversations. It sheds light on the various interests of Gen Alpha, and how they are coping with the harsh, digital world they were born into. An insightful watch for both parents and children, this podcast promises to drive the message home through visual storytelling and entertainment. Log on to: ameanshow.com In tune with mental health Also check out these podcasts: >> The right sourceThe channel provides mental health and social emotional learning resources for kids and teens. They explain through visual storytelling concepts like anger management for kids, grounding techniques, emotions and feelings vocabulary, relaxation skills, and more.Log on to: Mental Health Center Kids on YouTube >> The onus is on parentsThis podcast by author and parenting expert Mark Gregston shows how parents can start being more mindful about a teenager’s mental health. He explores themes like why teens lie, intimacy, effective communication, online safety and the art of letting go.Log on to: Parenting Today’s Teens on Spotify PICS COURTESY/YOUTUBE >> Mental power with yogaExplore relaxation and enter the world of cartoons through relaxing yoga poses for kids. The host will tell you about the Little Mermaid Yoga pose, or why Kevin the koala can’t sleep. You can jump into (above)Rapunzel’s adventurous world and even get flexible with the Little Red Riding Hood.Log on to: Cosmic Kids Yoga on YouTube >> Listen up, girlsThese episodes directly speak to girls (both teens and tweens). Host and girl power instructor Stephanie Valdez shares guidance on personal development, physical and mental health, media literacy, and how to better handle friendships, relationships and family. Log on to: 10 for Teens + Tweens on Spotify
14 May,2024 09:25 AM IST | Mumbai | Devanshi DoshiTake it easyThe undisputed winners for me are the Bhandardara and Igatpuri sites separated by an hour-long drive. They require no trekking and you can reach the campsite conveniently owing to good road connectivity. This makes them the ideal choice for kids, couples and families. Both sites have offered some of the best firefly sightings historically. Igatpuri stands out as the only firefly campsite that also offers water sports during the day like kayaking and rafting. Difficulty: BeginnerHow to reach: Board a local train from Mumbai to Kasara. Hail a local jeep or join the group transportation vehicle. Alternatively, make the 120 km drive to the base camp via Bhandardara Phata and Kalsubai. Kuldip Rathore, trek leader, Mischief Treks ON 17 May onwardsMEETING POINT Kasara Railway Station; Dogra Food Mall Kasara (for private vehicles)CALL 7719800777COST Rs 1,800 (includes food, transportation from Kasara and accommodation) Views from the valleyFor those who wish to take a detour from the hubbub of the city life to spot the fireflies with a short, yet enjoyable trek, Sandhan valley offers the right balance between adventure and leisure. This valley is also known as the Valley of Shadows because the sun’s rays don’t reach the ravines. The firefly trail at the base camp on the first day can be followed by a two-hour-long trek. For those looking for a memorable adventure, we also offer guided rappelling activities under our supervision down the valley. Difficulty: Intermediate How to reach: Board a local train from Mumbai to Kasara. Avail of jeep services run by locals, or your trek organiser to reach Samrad village, the base camp through a two-hour-long drive. Vinayak Mahadik, trek co-ordinator, Trek Panda ON 18 May onwardsMEETING POINT Kasara Railway Station.CALL 8888771773COST Rs 1,799 (includes food, transportation from Kasara and rappelling) On a high noteThe Harishchandragad Fort is known for its challenging trek that concludes with a panoramic view from 4,650 ft above sea level. However, not many realise that one of the base villages, Paachnai, offers some great views as well. Boasting dense foliage, the village becomes home to wildlife sightings, including fireflies from mid-May to June. During monsoons, the village is surrounded by scenic waterfalls. I recommend this trek to seasoned trekkers or those with adequate endurance training. Difficulty: Intermediate/expert How to reach: Board a local train from Mumbai to Kasara. Make the two-hour drive to Pachnai via Igatpuri and Bhandardara Phata in a private or group vehicle. Alternatively, board a State Transport bus from Kasara to Rajur followed by Rajur to Pachnai. Public transport can be erratic. Neel Sheth, trek organiser, Treks and Trails ON May 18 onwardsMEETING POINT Kasara Railway Station.CALL 8591064044COST R1,399 (includes food, transportation from Kasara, and accommodation) The Harishchandragad Fort trek features rocky terrain and scenic views Know before the glow >> Do not expect luxury; all firefly sighting camps are nestled in remote tribal settlements. >> Give the bonfire a break. Although a camping essential, continued exposure to smoke can harm, and potentially kill fireflies. >> Avoid playing loud music on your phones. It can disturb the fireflies. >> Carry a rainproof jacket, quick-drying clothing, an extra pair of socks and trekking shoes with good grip. >> While photography and videography is usually allowed, double-check if your flash is engaged. Flashes can instantly drive away fireflies. The Bhandardara firefly spotting camp >> Fireflies glow to attract mating partners. Do not attempt to touch or handle the fireflies during this vital phase of their life cycles. >> Research about the group you’re joining and enquire about the ethical measures in place. Responsible organisers must not overcrowd the sites and allow the fireflies their space. - Kuldip Rathore Also check out >> RajmachiThis site provides direct access to firefly sightings without a trek. However, situated only 84 km from the city, the site is prone to overcrowded camps.ON May 24 onwardsLOG ON TO treksandtrails.orgCOST Rs 1,199 (includes food, accommodation, and travel) >>Kothaligad Fort TrekThis trail in Ambivali is one of the closest spots to Mumbai for firefly spotting. A two-hour-long uphill trek featuring ancient stone steps ends with clear firefly sightings under the night sky.ON May 18 onwardsLOG ON TO mischieftreks.comCOST Rs 850 onwards (includes food and accommodation) A participant engages in kayaking in Igatpuri >>PurushwadiTucked away from the usual tourist spots, Purushwadi provides an unexplored, quaint and tranquil experience under clear skies during the firefly mating season.ON May 24 onwardsLOG ON TO mischieftreks.comCOST Rs 1,600 onwards (includes food and accommodation)
14 May,2024 09:23 AM IST | Mumbai | Devashish KambleJust a couple of years ago, if you had spotted a group huddled around a screen on your commute, you could safely assume they were engaged in the beloved board game, Ludo. Today, however, this popular game of chance is slowly starting to give way to a more cerebral, yet equally captivating pursuit — chess. This growing passion for the game in the city, perhaps, is why ChessBase India, an organisation that promotes the game across the country, is bringing The Big Chess Summer Camp back to the city today for its second season. Priyanka Ved, a lawyer and chess instructor, is one of the three head coaches who will oversee the gathering of novices and experts alike, assisted by an army of volunteers. Over a short call, Ved explains that the camp is far from the image of a strict, structured camp that its name might have evoked in our minds. “We do not ask the participants to come in every day and sit through long sessions led by a trainer. The camp is free for all, and participants from all walks of life can drop in, work on their game, play a good match with like-minded individuals, and leave as they want.” Participants gather at the venue during a previous edition To facilitate this unique structure, Ved, along with co-head coaches Nithin Chandan and Shashank Mokashi has developed a self-learning module. A set of 45 activity sheets, beginning from the basics of the game such as identifying pieces, to complex check tactics, will form the foundation of the camp. “You can walk in, pick up a sheet based on your skill level, and work your way up from there. Whether you’re a novice or a professional, you can call for a volunteer or a coach if you find yourself struggling with a sheet,” she notes, further revealing that each of the sheets feature 10 activities accompanied by diagrams, hints, and instructions. While the coach admits that younger participants might have an upper hand in picking up on nuances of the game, she insists that nothing is put down in black and white. “We have had participants come along with their mothers and grandparents. By the end of the camp, the grandparents are the ones glued to the sheets,” she laughs. On the other hand, we learn that children as young as two-years-old have something to look forward to at the camp. An illustrated book, titled ChessPa (Rs 499), features a friendly grandpa who breaks down the absolute basics of the game. Young readers can get their hands on the book at the venue and the organisation’s website. Priyanka Ved Amid discussions about the many ways the camp is trying to make the game fun and lucrative for city audiences, Ved reminds us that it’s not all fun and games. Completion of all the activity sheets that the camp has to offer opens the doors to a monthly pan-India chess tournament organised by ChessBase India for the participants. “The goal, ultimately, is to get talented minds who show commitment to the game under our wing, and provide them the right platform,” she concludes. ON May 13 to 19; 4 pm to 8 pm AT Atrium 5, Phoenix MarketCity, LBS Marg, Kurla West. LOG ON TO chessbase.inFREE
13 May,2024 09:28 AM IST | Mumbai | Devashish KambleTim Cook, who took over the reins of Apple from Steve Jobs in 2011, will turn 64 this year. And while the venerated CEO has indicated that he does not intend to retire in the near future, speculations are rife about who will take over his coveted mantle when the time comes. Business pundits across the world are taking a closer, harder look at Cook’s core team, considering that Cook himself was the COO under Jobs before he was moved up the leadership hierarchy. But what key considerations does an outgoing leader make when selecting a worthy successor? More significantly, why is this decision one of the most crucial ones that Cook can make in his already illustrious career? Although the idea of succession is not often discussed in leadership discourse, it is an important component of a successful leader’s legacy, experts say. “Succession planning is a key leadership requirement at all leadership levels. Dr Brajesh Bajpai, Rishi Piparaiya and Ojas Mehta Every senior leader should, if they haven’t already, plan their succession roadmap. The reasons for this are twofold; the first is an organisational requirement as the present leader will move up at some stage, and it is a part of their responsibility to ensure that someone capable steps into their shoes. The second reason is more strategic: what many leaders don’t recognise is that the fastest way to grow in an organisation is to make themselves redundant. While this might sound quite provocative, it simply means that if the leader has put together a team that is capable of doing everything that [s]he is responsible for, in the eyes of the organisation, that leader is ready to be moved up,” shares Dr Brajesh Bajpai, executive coach and mentor, and managing executive at Vodacom Group. Setting the stage Successful leaders breed more leaders, says Bajpai, noting that a reputation of building future leaders adds to the incumbent’s own leadership capital. A key step that a leader can take is to ensure that the process of grooming and nurturing leaders is embedded into the organisation’s DNA, suggests Ojas Mehta, a leadership development coach. “Regular training and development opportunities, as well as responsibilities that enable potential candidates to learn and develop their leadership skills must be built into their work. This is an investment that can yield rich dividends for the entire organisation in the long term,” he adds. Have a vision “Whether the successor is chosen from within the existing organisation or brought into the organisation has a lot to do with the objectives and vision of the firm,” explains Rishi Piparaiya, a leadership mentor. He clarifies that if the organisation is keen to maintain the status-quo and an even keel, an existing team member could be the best fit for the leadership role. On the other hand, if the organisation is aiming for disruption and wants to shake things up, bringing in a fresh face may be a much-required shot in the arm. Regardless of the decision made, it is important to involve all key stakeholders in the process. “With larger organisations especially, these decisions are not made in isolation, and the inputs of the board should be considered, and their concerns addressed. It’s also important to maintain clear and transparent communication with these stakeholders throughout the process,” says Bajpai. Let go of your biases It is human nature to want to seek out a successor that is similar to the outgoing leader. “We are genetically programmed to seek out people who behave and think like us. In the absence of checks and measures, these biases can get the better of us and set us up for failure. We could be inadvertently breeding a posse of ‘yes-men’ [or women], which creates several blind spots in the organisation’s long-term strategy and thinking,” cautions Bajpai. Proving that proximity by association doesn’t always ensure the best fit is Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) chief Mayawati’s decision to sack her nephew, Akash Anand, from his role as national coordinator and also her political successor. In her announcement, she shared that she was considering the larger interests of the party as well as Anand’s perceived ‘lack of maturity’. When selecting a future leader, he emphasises on not choosing people who can do the job at hand but rather those who can get the job done or inspire others to get it done. “Organisations have been waking up to the importance of people skills, over purely technical abilities. Instead of relying purely on performance reports and spreadsheets, look for potential candidates with strong ‘soft skills’ such as empathy, conflict resolution, ability to manage stress, and how they handle feedback and ambiguity. Importantly, ensure that they have the right attitude, work ethic, and willingness to grow and adapt to the requirements of their role,” says Mehta. Smooth handover The kind of guidance a new leader receives can largely influence his/her performance in the new role. “While it’s important to not be overbearing, to micromanage or to overstay your welcome, it’s also crucial to give your successor the tools and guidance [s]he needs to essay the role successfully. Plan for some overlap and have a sound plan, which is shared with all stakeholders, to ease the transition,” shares Piparaiya. At the same time, Mehta highlights the importance of a failsafe plan that comprises the necessary countermeasures to stabilise the shift, should the new leader not be a good fit for the role (s)he has been tasked with.
13 May,2024 09:22 AM IST | Mumbai | Anindita PaulADVERTISEMENT
