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This performance presents a unique blend of eurythmy and Indian classical music

This writer still remembers reading William Shakespeare’s Hamlet according to the beats of its iambic pentameter when memorising lines in college. Members of the production team from Eurythmy India would have approached it differently. The company will take to the stage today to present scenes from another of the bard’s famous works, King Lear, in a unique performance, ‘Love, And Be Silent’ that blends Indian musical forms with the European practice of eurythmy. “Eurythmy actually began as a pedagogical teaching tool invented by Rudolf Steiner,” shares Preeti Birla, vice president of the Eurythmy Society of Performing Arts. An eurythmist herself, Birla is taking on the role of King Lear’s Fool in the production. “The performance is different from Indian classical forms. Where mudra or abhinaya [expression] is key to Indian dance and theatrical arts, you embody and make visible speech and music in eurythmy,” she explains. A moment from the performance Developed by Steiner in the early 20th century, the art form uses gestures and movement to depict musical notes. “The performance art is a part of the Waldorf Steiner educational movement, but also a product of the study of anthroposophy. Every musical note and movement is associated with a physical gesture,” Birla elaborates. The production includes performers from not only India, but also Taiwan, Singapore, Malaysia and Nepal among other countries. “The team includes members who have recently graduated as eurythmists. We wanted to create a production that will inform audiences about the art form,” she points out. Preeti Birla To reach out to an Indian audience, the production has added the touch of the sitar and tabla as musical accompaniments to the story. Describing the performance in Indian attire, sitarist Adwait Gadgil explains, “The sitar elevates the moments of tragedy. The shruti, an overtone or microtone, is in conjunction with the eurythmic movements on stage. These delicate notes find a vibrant expression in this form.” Paired with elaborate pieces of Sergei Rachmaninoff, it offers a unique experience on stage, he adds. Having already travelled through Europe, including a performance at Steiner’s Goetheanum in Switzerland, the production will put up two performances in Mumbai. ON February 14 and 15; 6.45 to 8.30 pmAT Dr. Ashatai Primary School, Kalaghar, Goregaon East. CALL 9702656742LOG ON TO in.bookmyshow.comENTRY Rs 500

14 February,2025 09:25 AM IST | Mumbai | Shriram Iyengar
One of the highlights of the books is an account of a tiger’s encounter with a wild boar. Pics Courtesy/Wikimedia

This book describes a tiger's life and effects of human-wildlife confrontation

British forestry officer and conservationist Sir Sainthill Eardley-Wilmot was posted in India — and, briefly, in Myanmar — under various posts during the Colonial era. During this period, he closely observed the forest life, especially in the old North and North-West provinces of the country, writing about the need for regeneration of the sal trees and the treatment of the long-leafed deciduous trees like the shisham and khair. Eardley-Wilmot’s study was instrumental in the establishment of the Forest Research Institute in India. In 1911, he published a slim book called The Life of a Tiger. This has now been republished (Talking Cub) with a new cover, featuring Argentine painter Julia Wernicke’s painting of the big cats. Sir Sainthill Eardley-Wilmot The title returns not only as a reminder of his contributions at a time when such knowledge was scanty, but also as a story that shines an essential light on human interference with wildlife. Although the book is a work of fiction, one cannot tell it apart from a non-fictional account; so striking is Eardley-Wilmot’s writing. The treasure is in the details. From the early months when a cub learns to hunt until the later years of his combat with the powerful neighbours and others of his species, readers are glued to the tiger’s search for food, home, and safety. One of the most startling chapters in the book is the tiger’s encounter with a wild boar in the midst of a meadow surrounded by the Himalayan fir trees. Unlike the other pigs, the intrepid boar stands its ground; its spirit convinces us of how hard it makes the game for the king of the jungle. With such singularly detailed writing, an illustrated map tracing the tiger’s path — from the plains in northern India to the hills across the river, and further into the plains through a ravine — is a bit of a missed opportunity. It would have been an interesting addition to the narrative, especially since there is so much movement in it. For instance, its ascent up the Himalayas, when depicted through sketched pug marks, would add to the dynamism for young contemporary readers. Eardley-Wilmot’s work is captivating; he watches from close quarters, among other things, how a tiger’s life gets affected from human and wildlife confrontation should poaching and hunting rackets continue. His poignancy echoes the agonising journey such activities can take the displaced tigers through. AVAILABLE All leading bookstores and e-storesCOST Rs 250

14 February,2025 09:21 AM IST | Mumbai | Nandini Varma
Bodi styles a basic yet elegant look

Here's how you can develop and ace your personal fashion aesthetic

The third season of Netflix’s Dubai Bling served up oodles of sass and style. Topping the charts on both counts was Farhana Bodi, the only Indian-origin cast member who is also an established fashion content creator. Known for her glamorous sartorial choices, Bodi’s lifestyle embodies maximalism to its fullest. However, she also insists on the importance of developing your own fashion aesthetic, which can lend itself to specific events and occasions. Here are the three rules Bodi lays down to help you curate your style mantra. 1. Find your fashion voice   The first rule, Bodi says, is to understand the pieces that resonate with you. “Instead of being swayed by trends, focus only on those that align with your personality and enhance your brand. Not every trend will suit everyone; prioritise ones that reflect your style and values. I am partial to classic pieces with a contemporary twist,” she explains. Farhana Bodi When curating your wardrobe, look for timeless staples that you can dress up with bold statement pieces to suit a variety of occasions and moods. It helps, of course, to design a mood board that helps you to visualise your preferences. “I’m personally inspired by the fusion of traditional and modern elements. My influences come from global fashion icons, cultural aesthetics, and, of course, the glamorous vibe of Dubai. I try to include some aspects of these in all of my looks,” she elaborates. 2. Stay true to you While Bodi looks to the cool and relatable fashion picks of her icons, fashion model Elsa Hosk and actor Rosie Huntington-Whiteley, she also insists on venturing beyond your comfort zone, every now and then. Bodi suggests sticking to basics instead of hopping on trends “You can, of course, keep refining your style as you find pieces that make you feel confident. In the beginning, I would experiment a lot; but now I’ve found a balance between statement-making looks and everyday elegance. It’s about knowing what works best for me, and staying true to that,” she says. When you do want to experiment or change your look for a special occasion, she advises picking bold accessories that inject a touch of drama. 3. Don’t sacrifice wearability Despite featuring in a show that epitomises the ‘more is more’ style mantra, Bodi cautions against falling for fleeting trends or OTT pieces that come with a very limited expiry date. “Overly exaggerated pieces that compromise wearability are a strict no-no. Such outfits invariably find their way to the back of your wardrobe and only to be brought out for very rare occasions. Similarly, extremely oversized fits or impractical designs may seem enticing but will soon appear dated. Even if your personal style is bold, your pieces must always be functional and flattering,” she signs off. Farhana’s favoured five for fashion-lovers Bodi shares five wardrobe must-haves that every fashion-lover should possess:>> A tailored blazer for instant sophistication>> A pair of classic nude or black heels>> Statement jewellery to elevate any look>> An elegant handbag for timeless appeal>> A little black dress

14 February,2025 09:13 AM IST | Mumbai | Anindita Paul
Representation pic

No Valentine's Day plan? Explore these places in Mumbai to make your day special

Cafes A cosy cornerWhether you’re sharing a flaky pastry over deep conversations or sipping coffee in comfortable silence, this little nook is perfect — budget-friendly and charming. AT Café Olive Greens by Jimmy Boy, opposite Afghan Church, Navy Nagar, Colaba. TIME 8.30 am to 10 pm LOG ON TO @olivegreens.jimmyboyCALL 7900124218 The cosy interiors at the cafe Jour d’amourIt might be a tad late to plan a visit to the city of love, but this Parisian café with vintage charm and classics like freshly baked croissants and pour-over coffees will make up for it. We suggest an early evening visit to beat the Valentine’s Day rush.AT Café 702, Pearl Commercial, PAM High Street, Vasai West.TIME 8 am to 10 pmCALL 7028870002 Coffee and croissants Fairytale twistStep into a fairytale romance at this charming eatery known for its well-curated classics such as the chicken stroganoff.AT Once upon a Dine Café, Bajaj Niwas, Khar West. TIME 11.30 am to 12 amLOG ON TO @onceuponadinecafeCALL 8433906854 People partake in a conversation. Pics courtesy/Instagram Book a dateWith a wood-finish, cottage-core aesthetic, this café-cum-library in Kalyan is a perfect date spot to munch on snacks while you cosy up with a book.AT Bookmark Café, Patil Bungalow, Gandhari, Kalyan.TIME 11 am to 12 midnightLOG ON TO @thebookmarkcafe_CALL 9867892309 Patrons indulge in a card game at the café Game on, lovebirdsThis one’s for couples who love a little competition. With over 100 board games to choose from, you’ll never run out of ways to challenge each other.AT Pair a Dice Café (Godrej Hillside Colony, Vikhroli West; Link Plaza, Andheri West)TIME 12 pm to 11 pmLOG ON TO @pairadicecafemumbaiCALL 8451033921 (Vikhroli) Sweet meetsHead over to one of the oldest ice cream outlets in the city which is popular for its reasonable and wide variety of ice cream sandwiches (inset). Don’t miss taking a stroll along Marine Drive to end the date.AT K. Rustom and Company, Veer Nariman Road, Churchgate. TIME 9.30 am to 11 pmCALL 22821768 A day at the puppy café Puppy loveNothing wins a heart like a wagging tail. Head over to this heart-warming dog café, where every puppy hug will add to the magic of your date.AT Puppy Cuddles Dog Café, Barrister Hotchand Gopaldas Advani Marg, Khar West. TIME 12 pm to 8.30 pmLOG ON TO @puppycuddles_mumbaiCALL 9920442799 Experience A moment from a previous performance by Araj Sounds like loveLet Hindustani classical musicians Ishaan Ghosh, Mehtab Ali Niazi, Pratik Singh, and Vanraj Shastri of the neo-classical band Araj set the right tone for the special day at this open-air concert in Juhu.TIME 7 pmAT Kalangan (Amphitheatre) at Sangit Mahabharati, 10th Road, Juhu. LOG ON TO @sangitmahabharatiENTRY Rs 300 onwards  Love in lettersCelebrate the art of love letters at this mesmerizing evening which will bring to life some of the most heartfelt correspondences exchanged between some famous personalities. This year’s lineup includes letters between Guru Dutt and Geeta Dutt, and more. ON February 14; 7.30 pmAT NCPA Sunken Garden, Nariman Point. LOG ON TO in.bookmyshow.comCOST Rs 500 Participants at a workshop A brush with loveFor a creative twist on the day after Valentine’s Day, join this unique art session where two people paint together on a single sheet of paper.ON February 15; 10.30 am to 1 pmAT Art Therapy and Loft, Road Number 24, Khar West. CALL 9619108002COST Rs 3,000 (per couple)

14 February,2025 09:08 AM IST | Mumbai | The Guide Team
Khandeshi baigan bharta with puri

Taste the difference: This café-restaurant is back with new decor and menu

The beauty of five-star hotels, even if you don’t frequent them, lies in the memories of special occasions the venue etches on the mind. When we visit Hilton Mumbai International Airport Hotel, flashes from a notorious cocktail party make a picturesque visual. After 24 years, restaurant café The Brasserie has gone under the knife — for its menu and decor. The journey from the lobby to the restaurant is down a winding staircase amplified with a jhoomar. Below, a modern seating lightens in concept and colour palette, aping the green openness of the pool area outside. Banana-leaf-shaped lamp shades, soft green seating covers and an earthy vibe welcomes natural light during lunch time. Malvani fish curry At the new space with a friend, we ordered from the menu that newly-boarded Chef Altamsh Patel had created. “Until now, the hotel followed an old-school approach of offering 200 to 250 items on a menu. I have trimmed the menu, and ensured each dish has a story,” reveals Patel, who has 14 years of experience and has been awarded the Star Chef of India National Award in 2018 and Young Chef of the Year Western India Culinary Association in 2024. The dishes have certain tweaks, giving the example of Baigan ka bharta. “Typically, it is prepared with onions, tomato and lots of masala. In my Khandeshi community we do it differently. It is made of four simple ingredients: spring onions, peanuts, garlic and green chilli. All the ingredients are roasted to give a smoky flavour, Patel explains. Thalipeeth and Red quinoa avocado salad We eye the nalli nihari ramen (Rs 900), the stock-based breakfast item that originated in Old Delhi that has been paired with the broth dish of Japan. Our sure shot doubts of the dish coming together on the palate are laid to rest. The nihari is spicy and well simmered in saffron and spices. The lamb shank is succulent and the ramen noodles have soaked the chilli oil well. Complete with a creamy egg, seaweed, daikon, edamame and togarashi spice, we experience a good nihari in a ramen form. Red quinoa avocado adds freshness to the palate with kale, crunchy asparagus, olives and a feta crumble (Rs 1,200). We take a rustic highway with bhajani thalipeeth khamang kakdi (Rs 1,300). The thepla-consistency thalipeeth with dollops of white butter makes it a filling Maharashtrian treat. The cucumber salad has mayo instead of yogurt, which disrupts the traditional taste. A serving of orange kharvas and A bowl of nalli nihari ramen We continue the sojourn with Khandeshi baigan bharta (Rs 1,200). It’s everything that bharta is usually not. The peanut oil from the nuts smoothens the bharta texture and after the spicy ramen, the homestyle, non-spicy version soothes our palate. We scoop it with piping hot puri bites. A post-lunch siesta nap is definitely on the cards. A turn along the coast for Malvani fish curry (R1,800) is worth the stop. The pomfret is soaked in a rustic tomato and coconut curry. A winding staircase and chandelier paired with modern seating add to the decor For dessert, we try orange kharvas (R800). We tried our first kharvas made of steamed colostrum milk at Shree Dutta Snacks on the way to Lonavala. The touch of orange citrus flavoured with kesar, elaichi and almonds balances out the sweetness. While our dining companion hits the stop button, we go one more round with a hand-churned ukadiche modak ice cream (R800). The menu is compact and skillfully executed for the discerning traveller.  AT The Brasserie, Hilton Mumbai International Airport, Andheri East.TIME 6.30 am till 1 amCALL 61990000

13 February,2025 04:40 PM IST | Mumbai | Phorum Pandya
Doechii flaunts a pin-striped gown at the award ceremony; (right) Cardi B’s bedazzled tiger print look. Pics Courtesy/Instagram

Grammys 2025: Here are the top sartorial picks for your wardrobe

Yes, the Grammys are undeniably music’s biggest night but they’re also a treat for fashion lovers across the board. This time around, the 2025 Grammys ceremony served up an interesting and adventurous mix of sartorial picks which, diverse as they may seem, pointed to the year’s hottest style trends, especially in terms of occasion-wear. “As far as award ceremonies go, the Grammys red carpet is undoubtedly one of the edgiest. The couture is avant-garde and over-the-top, but pared down versions of these styles can work their way into non-celebrity closets with ease,” observes celebrity fashion stylist, Mitali Ambekar.  Beyoncé in over the elbow gloves; (right) Chrissy Teigen in a sheer gown Keep it sheer See-through fabrics were the night’s hottest picks, with celebrities interpreting the trend in risqué to more demure looks. While Chrissy Teigen’s sheer black gown featured a strategically-placed corset, Victoria Monet wore a mint green gown with a sheer, flowy cape. Gracie Abrams too wore a buttery chiffon gown with a delicate sheer veil. To make this trend more wearable, Ambekar recommends smart layering. “Wear a slip dress, bodysuit or bralette underneath your sheer top or dress for a more balanced look. You could also pair sheer fabrics with more structured pieces such as a leather jacket, or tailored trousers to make your look appear less bridal and more modern. Finally, keep your accessories to a bare minimum and let the fabric be the star of your look,” she suggests. Jaden Smith in a quirky headpiece; Shaboozey rocks a fringed scarf; Gracie Abrams  in a chiffon gown Make a statement Fashion in 2025 will be bold and unapologetically quirky, as the meteoric popularity of kitschy accessories, such as sculptural corsets and purses that look more like conceptual art, suggests. The Grammys red carpet was no exception, with Jaden Smith accessorising his sleek black suit with a castle-inspired headpiece and Doechii’s charcoal grey pin-striped gown featuring head-turning sculptural hips. “When opting for a more avant-garde look, choose unconventional silhouettes including designs that feature oversized, sculptural or asymmetrical elements. Don’t overcrowd your look by doing too much — pick one statement piece or element and design the rest of your look around it. Doechii presents an excellent example by choosing a muted colour to keep her sculptural dress from looking too theatrical. A good starting point is a bold headpiece, a structured coat or statement footwear, which can add an avant-garde element to your ensemble, without dramatically altering your signature style,” Ambekar advises. Mitali Ambekar Shimmer and shine are always fine Metallics have always been a red-carpet favourite, but this year, the sequins were brighter and more sparkly than ever before. Celebrities also personalised the trend as per their own personas, with Cardi B donning a bedazzled tiger print gown that also had a feathered train. Kacey Musgraves, on the other hand, pared down the drama of her gold sequinned skirt with a crisp white tank top. Men also took to the trend with equal flair — Babyface opted for rhinestone lapels to dress up his plain black suit, and Shaboozey flaunted a silver jacket and a fringed scarf. For a look that screams effortless glamour, Ambekar suggests balancing your metallic pieces with neutral counterparts. For instance, a sequined skirt with a plain white or black top is a timeless pick. She also recommends sticking to sleek silhouettes and structured pieces to prevent the look from wearing you. Similarly, skip accessories or keep them to a minimum. Opera glam, yes ma’am Old Hollywood-style glamour was on full display, with an operatic twist for an even more dramatic flair. Beyoncé was a stylish forerunner with her coordinated over-the-elbow gloves. Kelsea Ballerini added her own spin with a chic white opera coat over her sparkly black minidress. And then, of course, along came Chappell Roan with her sheer fingerless gloves only adding to the surrealness of her illustrated tulle gown. When recreating this style, Ambekar recommends dramatic outerwear, such as an opera coat or faux fur stole. For a more vintage take, incorporate opera gloves in satin or mesh. Finish your look with classic hair and makeup — red lips, soft curls and winged eyeliner are the perfect retro touches to bring your outfit together, she signs off.

13 February,2025 11:16 AM IST | Mumbai | Anindita Paul
Adventurers on the Dayara Bugyal trek in  Uttarakhand. Pic Courtesy/Mountme

Winter Hiking 101: Here's what every beginner needs to know

Layering is key Vinayak Mahadik, trek co-ordinator, Trek Panda  When it comes to high altitude treks, there is no one stop solution. Knowing how to properly layer your upper body clothing, for instance, can make or break the deal. Ensure your base layer is a thermal suit that is moisture wicking (moves sweat away from the skin by absorption). The mid layer is for insulation — a good fleece or down jacket will do the job. The final layer is for water and wind resistance from a solid, yet breathable jacket. Head-to-toe essentials: Neck gaiter or balaclava, shell jacket and pants, gaiters, -10°C or lower rating sleeping bag and a rain poncho. On my trek list: Sar Pass trek and Hampta Pass trek in Himachal Pradesh Get the tools right Chirag Dhabalia, trek organiser, MountMe It is important for beginners to prepare well in advance. Contrary to popular thinking, most beginners ignore the need for handy tools like a head torch, sunglasses or gloves. A life-saving hack would be to study and track the trail beforehand with the help of a navigation app to plan your route in case of unforeseen weather conditions. Head-to-toe essentials: Woollen beanies, sun protection glasses, head torch, down jacket, dry-fit hiking pants, water resistant socks. On my trek list: Trek to Brahmatal in Uttarakhand A pre-trek shopping list for beginners   Head and neck Neck gaiterThis multipurpose neck gaiter gets the experts’ vote for being insect repellent and coming with UPF 50 rated sun protection.LOG ON TO Buff on www.adventuras.in COST Rs 1,359 HeadlampButtons are passé. Use hand motions and gestures to control this rechargeable headlamp that offers 300 lumen output with an adjustable strap and an SOS feature.LOG ON TO gokyo.in COST Rs 1,499 Gadgets and apps SmartwatchDownload your trek map and save it on a smartwatch like the Amazfit T-Rex 2 which allows offline access in low network coverage areas. LOG ON TO in.amazfit.com  Apps Zello: Turns your phone into a walkie talkieLife360: Lets your family track your live location Maps.me: A solid offline map app, especially useful for remote areasAVAILABLE All app stores Upper body Insulating jacketExpert suggest investing in a high quality insulated down jacket that retains heat even in wet conditions. This jacket comes with breathable lining and a chin guard to prevent chafing.LOG ON TO columbiasportswear.co.in COST Rs 9,999  GlovesGet a grip of things with these professional approved synthetic windproof gloves.LOG ON TO wildcraft.comCOST R799 Thermal baseGet the basics right with a moisture wicking thermal that delivers warmth in temperatures as low as -20°C. The thermal can also double as innerwear for future trips.LOG ON TO Uniqlo.com COST Rs 2,490 Shell jacketSeal the deal with this lightweight water resistant and wind proof soft shell jacket. LOG ON TO decathlon.inCOST Rs 2,999 Lower body Hiking pantsThe specialised knee darts on these quick-dry pants allow for a greater range of motion for all your rough terrain adventures.LOG ON TO gokyo.inCOST Rs 2,499 Breathable socksKeep cold feet at bay with these lightweight and breathable calf length socks that provide increased coverage.LOG ON TO Quecha on myntra.com COST Rs 899 Durable shoesOpt for waterproof high ankle shoes if your trek entails mixed terrain including snow and muddy trails. The MH100 comes with a non-slip outsole to help you get a grip of things right from the get go.LOG ON TO decathlon.inCOST Rs 2,499 Vinayak Mahadik in the Western Ghats. Pic Courtesy/Trekpanda Trek this out Head over to these trekking destinations this seasonHimalayas: Har ki Doon, Uttarakhand; Pangarchulla Peak, Uttarakhand; Kuari Pass, Uttarakhand; Deo Tibba Base Camp, Himachal Pradesh.Western Ghats: Karnala Fort, Panvel; Kothaligad Fort, Karjat, Kudremukh Trek, Karnataka; Sondai Fort, Karjat. Hiking essentials Sun protection glasses Energy bars and ORS powder Small quick-dry towels Duct tape for quick repairs Ziploc bags for electronics and snacks

13 February,2025 11:15 AM IST | Mumbai | Devashish Kamble
Pics Courtesy/Instagram

From dining to bird-watching: Here are 6 unique activities to do this weekend

Thursday Find yourselfTalk: Kick off your weekend with an introspective talk by Dutch author Valentijn Hoogenkamp (below) as he discusses his book, Antiboy — a memoir on gender, desire and the intricacies of a transitioning identity.TIME 7 pm to 9 pm AT G5A Warehouse, Laxmi Mills Estate, Mahalaxmi West. LOG ON TO district.in ENTRY Rs 249 Friday Dine under the starsFood: Taste romance at this al fresco dinner by Santé Spa Cuisine featuring dishes like strawberries and avo chaat plat, Kashmiri jardaloo biryani to give your special day a touch of spice.TIME 11 am to 12 midnight AT Royal Opera House Gardens, Shrimad Rajchandraji Marg, Charni Road East, Girgaon. CALL 8767862222 COST Rs 1,600 (for two people) Saturday Laugh out loud Stand-up: Start the weekend with a heartly laugh at Gaurav Gupta’s (below) solo show where he enthralls audiences with observational humour, relatable jokes and personal anecdotes.TIME 7 pm onwards  AT Rooftop, Infiniti Mall, New Link Road, Malad West. LOG ON TO in.bookmyshow.com ENTRY Rs 1,499 onwards Stretch your body Health: Sign up for this pole movement session by aerial fitness teacher Ria Bajaj to keep your body fit and agile as you learn this art celebrated for its athleticism and grace.TIME 6 pm to 8 pm  AT Studio Airbound, Empressa Building, Ram Krishna Nagar, Khar West. LOG ON TO troveexperiences.com ENTRY Rs 2,200 Sunday A moment from Todi Mill Fantasy Live out a city storyTheatre: Head out to watch Todi Mill Fantasy, a long-running classic that explores Mumbai’s class conflict and cosmopolitanism through the amusing life of a bathroom caretaker.TIME 8.30 pm AT Yashwant Natya Mandir, JK Sawant Marg, Joshi Vadi, Matunga West. LOG ON TO in.bookmyshow.com ENTRY Rs 299 onwards Indian Grey Hornbill. Pic Courtesy/Sachin Dedhia Relax in the wildNature: Bring the kids along, and reconnect with the city’s avian friends at a bird-watching session. Learn to identify different species of birds with the help of experienced naturalists as you catch sight of some rare visitors to the city. TIME 6.45 am to 11.30 amMEETING POINT Cycle stand, near Main Entry Gate, Sanjay Gandhi National Park, Borivli East. CALL 7738778789ENTRY Rs 1,000

13 February,2025 09:02 AM IST | Mumbai | Divyasha Panda
The pink strawberry lemonade

Team Guide Recommends: Berry berry refreshing

A few months ago, I stumbled upon a simple yet ingenious way to elevate a classic summer drink. While running a lemonade stall with friends for a neighbourhood community event we discovered Mala’s strawberry crush which became the magic ingredient in our pink lemonade. By freezing the crush into ice cubes and adding them to a glass of lemonade, we chanced upon a refreshing and Instagram-worthy recipe. This clever trick has since become my go-to method to stir up sophisticated mocktail perfect for the city’s never-ending summer or to entertain guests at home. AVAILABLE malasfruit.com 

13 February,2025 08:16 AM IST | Mumbai | Evita Roche
Akhilesh Kamlesh shows the classics collection. Pics/Anurag Ahire

This bookstore in Santacruz houses an extensive collection of second-hand books

Nestled in a small corner of a lane in Santacruz East, Kamlesh Bookstore might seem like any other book shop in the city, that is until you walk up to the store’s dusty shelves and discover old, hard-bound editions of classic gems. This writer has long shared a deep fascination for second-hand books, and in a world of flashy, curated bookstores, this little space catches our eye. We walk in on a quiet weekday afternoon, when the street is still busy with traffic. The small store is squeezed between a popular snack joint and an electronics shop, pushed back from the vehicular rush of the lane. “We used to have a shop in the book street near Flora Fountain. But we had to relocate in 2003. The competition for a space to set up a book stall in that neighbourhood was tough in those days,” Akhilesh Kamlesh, the second-generation owner of the store explains. A collection of second hand books from the store Hailing from Seoni district in Madhya Pradesh, Kamlesh has witnessed quite a bit of relocation after the incident. Beginning from a small store in Kandivli to Santacruz, he strives to build the same readership that their little stall in Flora Fountain would draw. “We had originally set it up in the 1990s. People would often ask for authors like Ernest Hemingway, Charles Dickens, Thomas Hardy and my father would constantly refresh our stacks every month. There was also a high demand for plays among readers back then. Now, it is more about what everyone else is reading,” he remarks. The store is lined up with the usual classics from Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein to Wuthering Heights. But the regulars trust this neighbourhood seller for his sources. “Whenever our regulars ask for a rare edition, I try to look for them.” A quick perusal of the shelves reveals stamps of school libraries to books marked with heartfelt notes from an uncle to his niece. The collection houses memories alongside literature. He links these books to a feeling of community. “When people used to visit bookstores earlier, they would catch up with each other, discover new books and that is how the community would expand,” he explains. During the lockdown, he would personally deliver books to his trusted circle of customers. “I often get people in their late 50s come up to the store looking for second hand editions of books while students turn up to ask for old editions of educational books. At the end of the day, it is a matter of preference I think. Time has changed and so have people. But it feels good when someone shows up at your store, keeps me informed as a seller too,” he laughs. As we are browsing around, a group of teenage girls enquire about Colaba Conspiracy, a work in Hindi crime fiction by Surendra Mohan Pathak. The book, they say, has been a quest for them. Kamlesh soon disappears behind a row of stacks for a few minutes, before emerging with the title. We leave the store with a bulging bag hoping that the next time we visit, we find more young readers whose quests land them at such old quaint haunts. AT Kamlesh Book Store, Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru Road, near Banarasi Sweet Mart, Sen Nagar, Santacruz East. CALL 8169969127

12 February,2025 09:07 AM IST | Mumbai | Divyasha Panda
Representation pic

Celebrate your love with this ultimate gifting guide for Valentine's Day

For the foodies Bites of loveIF you are looking for something sweeter, these delectable treats will not only satisfy your partner’s sweet tooth but also add some sweetness to your relationship. Surprise them with a beautifully decorated cake or a box of assorted goodies and appeal to their taste.Log on to: @mariasconfectioneryCALL 9152076401Cost: Rs 480 onwards A set of four Valentine’s themed chocolate cake bars Sip, sip, hooray!Mix up a red martini, craft cocktails together, or enjoy a classic drink with some premium Polish vodka to round off the special day. Paired with an intimate dinner or a cosy movie night, it adds just the right amount of class adn sophistication to your celebration.Log on to: @zytoindiaCost:  Rs 2,500 (Zyto 3); Rs 3,500 (Zyto luxe) A vodka-based cocktail A sweet surpriseAdd a fun and interactive element to your Valentine’s celebration with a breakable chocolate heart. Filled with delicious candy, this gift is as exciting to open as it is to eat. The act of cracking it open together adds a playful touch to the occasion, making it a memorable way to share some sweetness.Log on to: @lepurechocolatierCost: Rs 1,200 For the romantics Say it with styleA pendant that says “I love you” in 100 languages makes for a bold but intimate keepsake. A delicate yet meaningful choice, it will ensure that love is always close to the heart.Log on to: @giva.coCALL 8310183585Cost: Rs 2,999 A set of square prints with choice memories Memories in printSurprise your partner with polaroid prints of your best memories, beautifully arranged with aesthetic clip lights, frames or mood boards. A perfect blend of nostalgia and romance, it’s the ideal way to relive your happiest times together.Log on to: @thesquareprintsCALL 7012316217 Cost: Rs 299 (set of 10 prints) Curated keepsakesWhether your partner loves books, succulents, stationery or heartfelt showpieces, these diverse curated hampers have something for everyone. Thoughtfully assembled, these gifts  reflect effort and attention to detail that show how much you care.AT Satyam Collection, JTS Malani Road, near Eros Cinemas, Churchgate. TIME 9.30 am to 8 pm Log on to: satyamcollection.comCALL 42138800/8419969611 For adventurous souls A seaside siestaSometimes, the perfect getaway is just a short trip away. Book a day on the Ro-Ro ferry and set sail towards Alibaug, where a breezy coastal retreat awaits. Take a romantic walk along the beach and round off the evening with a laid-back brunch with ocean views for a memorable Valentine’s Day celebration.Log on to: m2mferries.comCost: Rs 420 onwards One for the roadIf you and your partner love road trips, gifting high-quality riding gear is a thoughtful and practical choice. From durable riding jackets, gloves to protective gear, these essentials ensure safety and style on your adventures. AT Rynox exclusive store, Landmark Society, Mahim West. TIME 11 am to 8 pmLog on to: rynoxgear.comCost: Rs 2,150 onwards For the bookworms A personalised embosser Seal it with a stampA personalised book embosser is a perfect gift for an avid reader, adding a special touch. Featuring their name and a favourite quote, it’s an elegant and thoughtful way to celebrate their love for books.Log on to: lemonadeindia.comCost: Rs 1,599 From the classicsIf you are looking to find the right words to express your feelings, try these printed, framed posters with your favourite literary quotes. Whether they adore classic literature, poetry, or contemporary fiction, these posters add a personal and intellectual touch to your romance.Log on to: printposters.inCost: Rs 480 onwards A selection of crochet flowers and a plushie heart keychain Handcrafted with loveCrochet gifts are a cosy and heartfelt way to show you care. From intricate bookmarks and adorable keychains to Valentine’s Day throw pillows, they can add a personalised touch to any book lover’s collection.Log on to: @_theartstationCost: Rs 200 onwards A gift for the senses TASTE Caffeine shots A MOCHA shot is the perfect gift for when a coffee lover with refined taste cannot function enough to brew a coffee. It might just be a throwback to your first coffee date.Log on to: zenmacoffee.comCost: Rs 799 SEE Beating hearts Handmade with vibrant beads in red, gold, black, and blue, these earrings add a bold and playful vibe to any look. Log on to: @jenniandjankiCost: Rs 350 SMELL Scented candles Handcrafted and infused with enchanting aromas, these candles set the perfect mood for love, relaxation, or self-care.Log on to: @swevenbysachiCost: Rs 199 onwards HEAR Personalized tunes A personalised keychain with a link to “your song” could be just the right thing this Valentine’s Day.Log on to: incrediblegifts.inCost: Rs 399 TOUCH Love, paint, and good vibes Celebrate Valentine’s Day with a creative twist! A paint date is a fun way to spend quality time together.  ON February 14; 6 pm to 8 pmAT The Corner Room,  Khar. Log on to: @desiartstudio_india Cost: Rs 1,500 (single ticket); Rs 2,900 (Valentine couple)

12 February,2025 08:52 AM IST | Mumbai | Evita Roche
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