SPUNKY INDIAN April Issue

1. SPUNKY INDIAN Delivering a delectable slice of India to the world APRIL 2019 S w i m m e r N i r a n j a n M u k u n d a n s p e a k s a b o u t h i s t r y s t w i t h t h e w a t e r a n d h i s r i s e t o t h e t o p . Swimming to Success Pranitha’s Power Look Learn Cooking and Have Fun With Food Interview With DJ Paroma Who is Making People Groove to Her Beat Chandramana Ugadi: An Ode to New Beginnings

2. E D I T O R ’ S L E T T E R Spring is here! The bright clear blue sky overlooks us and we can feel the warmth. The air is not too dry; it soothes our body and soul. The brown twigs get covered with green leaves and laden with colorful flowers. The season of spring ushers hope and happiness. The country indulges in festivities; various states celebrate the festival marking the beginning of a new age in their own unique way. Even in Karnataka, the spirit of spring can be seen in the form of Ugadi. The smell of freshly prepared Ugadi Pachadi hit the nostrils. Spring won’t fail to inspire the designers, the spring/summer collections, floral jewellery designs tops the racks. This April issue also talks about inspiration, para swimmer Niranjan Mukundan proves the quote that faith can move mountains while he speaks about his tryst with the water and his rise to the top. Lastly, we will take you on an experiential journey in the hills of Himachal Pradesh this season. Let there be as much happiness in your life as there are cherry blossoms in the trees. Wishing you a brilliant Spring!

3. Content 01 03 06 10 13 16 20 24 29 33 35 Chandramana Ugadi: An Ode to New Beginnings Pranitha’s Power Look The Famous Female DJ in India Who is Making People Groove: DJ Paroma Swimming to Success Picture-perfect Cooking Ethnic Vibes in Home Décor Taiki -Influenced by Japanese and Korean Cuisine Not Your Regular Holiday: Naggar Bespoke Jewellery for Every Occasion Travel Trends for the Year 2019-20 Recipes ON THE COVER Para Swimmer Niranjan Mukundan speaks about his tryst with the water and his rise to the top. FESTIVITIES Usher in the spirit of spring with new commencements, renewed vigour, cheer and hope amidst Karnataka’s New Year TRAVEL Naggar is a complete blend of art, history, adventure, nature, architecture, serenity and religious belief leading it to be a perfect place for everyone to visit. INSPIRATION DJ Paroma is an exception who not only carved out a space for herself in the music industry but brings prestigious laurels by mixing music. She speaks about her achievements, upcoming projects and future plans.

4. Chandramana Ugadi: An Ode to New Beginnings The festival is celebrated each year on Shukla Paksha of the Chaitra month of the Hindu calendar.  The latter is the first month of the year and hence marks the beginning of the new calendar aka "Panchangam".  In fact, Ugadi along with Deepavali (Balipadyami) and Vijaya Dashami (Dussehra) is considered as the three most auspicious days in the entire year and perfect for any new ventures and initiatives. Celebrations galore BY RASHMI GOPAL RAO Usher in the spirit of spring with new commencements, renewed vigour, cheer and hope amidst Karnataka’s New Year. Considering it is one of the most important festivals down south, the day is celebrated with great fervour and vigour.  Houses are cleaned up before the festival, and on the day of the celebration, it is adorned with all things considered holy, pure and auspicious. These include decorating the entrance doors with mango and neem leaves, decorating the exteriors with Kolam aka Rangoli and the abundant use of fresh flowers in the puja. A mandatory oil bath, new clothes, gifts and meeting up with friends and relatives add charm to the celebrations. Travel diaries With three months into the New Year, it is time to welcome April and a brand-new year for most of us in the Deccan Plateau.  On the 6th of April and it is the festival of Ugadi, also known as Chandramana Ugadi.  A very prominent festival celebrated in South India, Ugadi or Yugadi marks the commencement of the new Hindu Lunar calendar and hence is celebrated as the new year in the states of Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, Telangana and Maharashtra. While the day not only marks the advent of spring, it has historically been a very significant day in Hindu mythology. According to legend, it was on this day that the universe was created by Lord Brahma and it was also on this day that Lord Krishna entered ‘Vaikunta’ after the war of Mahabharata.  It was on the day of Ugadi that the era of “Kalyuga” commenced and hence is considered to be one of the essential and auspicious days of the Hindu calendar. During the festival puja, a copy of the new calendar or ‘panchangam’ is placed and worshipped with the hope that all things fare well in the new year.  In ancient times, it was customary for the priest to read out the year’s forecast in the temple during evening time.  01 SPUNKY INDIAN

5. Bevu Bella and Ugadi Pachadi One of the traditions intrinsically associated with the festival of Ugadi is the preparation of “Bevu -Bella” in Karnataka which literally translates into Neem-Jaggery.  Neem flowers are mixed with jaggery and consumed raw which is symbolic of the flavours of life.  Just as how neem is bitter and jaggery is sweet, life is also a combination of the bitter and the sweet and one must learn to take all things in our stride. The Ugadi Pachadi, which is an ideal preparation in Telangana and Andhra Pradesh is also a reflection of life’s flavours.  It is a tangy- sweet-bitter-savoury sauce that is prepared using raw mango, neem, jaggery, salt, chilli powder and tamarind.  The different flavours and tastes represent different phases of life like challenges, difficulties, surprises and happiness.  It is a dish that is mandatorily prepared and having it on this day is a sign of being able to take in all the nuances of life with equal elan. Both dishes are reminders that life is not always about only happy or sad events.  It is a mixture and a roller coaster ride.  It is our attitude towards life’s situations that is important and the key is to enjoy the ride! Other delicacies 02 The other vital preparations during the festival include a host of goodies like payasam, lemon rice, tamarind rice (Puliyogare) and of course sweets.  Mysore Pak, besan laddu and holige (obbatu) is also prepared in Karnataka.  The festival that is celebrated with great pomp in Maharashtra too is characterised by the preparation of Shrikhand and Puran poli in this region. SPUNKY INDIAN

6. Pranitha’s Power Look BY BHUMIKA K. Summer’s here and so is glamorous actor Pranitha Subhash’s wardrobe of shorts, short dresses, florals and pastels. Popular actor in south India, Pranitha Subhash has made her mark in Telugu, Kannada and Tamil cinema, ever since she made her debut in 2010 with the superhit Kannada film Porki opposite Darshan. She then starred in the Telugu film Baava and Tamil film Udhayan. She later won critical acclaim for her performance in the Kannada film Bheema Theeradalli. The young actor who started off during her college days as a model, bagged her first role pretty casually. Still the face of many a jewellery brand, she also has her hands full as she co-owns the pub Bootlegger in Bangalore. CLASSY TRENDY In 2018 she did the Telugu film Hello Guru Premakosame and in 2019 she already had a major release as part of the ensemble cast of the Telugu biopic NTR: Kathanayakudu where she played the role of yesteryear actress Krishna Kumari. “I have a couple of other Kannada films lined up too,” says Pranitha. 03 SPUNKY INDIAN

7. Keeping it simple The lithe beauty definitely styles herself well and has a major following on Instagram. “Personally I like a simple and minimalist approach to fashion, whether it’s my clothes, make-up, or hairdo. I like to keep my off-screen persona light. If I’m going out shopping or hanging out with friends, I’ll probably be in a T-shirt and jeans,” she declares. “On screen, it really depends on the characters I play; bright colours always look good on screen. At public appearances too I go for bright colours.” While the costume department has been around in the film industry forever, she observes, now it’s the stylist who takes care of these things in every film. “A lot of personal stylists of film stars have now come into prominence. The number of designers too has shot up, and stylists work with them to source the right outfit for our red carpet events and public appearances,” explains Pranitha, giving a peek into the world of filmi clothes. While we can be very critical of what stars wear, a chat with Pranitha reveals how much care and thought goes into what stars wear. “Because of social media we have to be conscious of what we wear every day because people are constantly watching you,” she argues. “On screen, it really depends on the characters I play; bright colours always look good on screen. At public appearances too I go for bright colours.” 04 SPUNKY INDIAN

8. Light palette and florals for summer The past winter has been a cold one for Pranitha, travelling to Israel. “I was constantly wearing knits, full-arm jackets and boots.” So summer has never been more welcome. “I like to wear light shades and florals in summer. I like anything sleeveless and cotton in summer. Dresses go very well with my persona.” Linen is something she reaches out for again, depending on the occasion. Pranitha believes that a good pair of sneakers and a short dress define her “power look” for the season. She’s going through a phase now where she loves brands. “Two or even three years ago I wasn’t a brand person at all,” she declares. But now she has clear cut ideas of what she will pick – “Zara has the best winter wear and it’s perfect when you are travelling abroad." Certain brands like Diesel fit me well. But I still think simple things made a big difference. Having a Gucci belt has become the latest trend; it can be paired with anything.” When it comes to accessories like bags, Pranitha says she likes to keep her look classic. She also talks of the hazards of her profession and dressing in complete contrast to the weather depending on the location of the event. “If it’s winter, but the event is indoors I have to keep my look light. But I could also be wearing a blazer in summer! It all depends on the occasion and the location.” 05 SPUNKY INDIAN

9. The Famous Female DJ in India Who is Making People Groove: DJ Paroma “I WANT THEM TO REMEMBER THAT NIGHT WHEN DJ PAROMA WAS PLAYING.” With the growing pubs and nightlife, DJing as a profession has seen exponential growth over the years. Opportunities are plenty, and one can opt this as their career choice. However, DJing being the male-dominated profession finds a few female names.   DJ Paroma is an exception who not only carved out a space for herself in this industry but brings prestigious laurels by mixing music. She speaks about her achievements, upcoming projects and future plans. 06 SPUNKY INDIAN

10. EXCERPTS FROM THE INTERVIEW: You have entered the world of DJing at a very tender age. Were there any challenges which you faced initially? Paroma:I faced many challenges as this was a completely different field for me. But my confidence made me reach the heights I have achieved today. The very fact that I got into a profession which was not considered a stable and proper job was a huge concern initially for my family members. I began with small projects, but slowly my work started picking up, and today I am blessed to be performing both locally and internationally, painting the towns red with my gigs. How has DJing changed your life and what are your highest achievements by far? Paroma: DJing has totally changed my life in so many ways, and the best part is that I have turned my passion for music as my profession. When you love what you do, success is guaranteed. I have got to learn a lot, explore a lot, and overall, I have gained such a massive number of fans over the years, and the love and appreciation I receive are so overwhelming. My highest achievements so far, I have won the WOW Asia Award 2018 under the best female DJ category. I have played for IPL 2014 as their official DJ, and this was the game changer in my life as it led me to further opportunities. I was a jury member for Sa Re Ga Ma Pa Lil Champs in 2017. I have recently been on the cover page of the DLF Trend Magazine, and also on the cover page of Gizmobox, a digital technology magazine. Can you share some of your international experiences in performing gigs, as you have become really famous internationally as well? Paroma:I love performing internationally, as it mesmerises me how popular our Bollywood music in overseas as well. I think one of my best international gig experiences has to be in the USA. The crowd was geared up with some intoxicating energy, and it gave me an adrenaline rush as well. I enjoyed performing there as much as they enjoyed dancing on my tunes. I was really touched with the love and affection I received, and it makes me happy to know that they look forward to me to come back to the USA and perform once again. 07 SPUNKY INDIAN

11. If you were not a DJ, which is the other profession, you would be a part of? Paroma:I was an air-hostess before, and when I used to fly I was already aspiring to be a pilot, but life took a sudden turn, and I landed in this. I believe destiny always has a plan for you and that, you cannot change. What makes me happy, is I at least get to create something that I love …. MUSIC!!  I was doing well with a stable income, flying places, so I guess I would have continued my profession if I had not decided to follow my heart and take up something that is more fulfilling and satisfying to me. What are your upcoming projects/gigs in line? And where do you see yourself five years down the line? Paroma:The year has just begun, and I am still exploring the number of opportunities which are in the pipeline. I am definitely having some great stuff coming up this year as well, and I aim to release my single this year as well. Would you like to share some advice for aspiring DJs who want to make it big in the industry someday? Paroma:Just aim to be a good DJ, and not because you are fascinated and consider this a glamorous profession. Learn the art and technique well, and play and mix music using your heart and your music sense. Remember, you are responsible for making someone’s night or event memorable, so give it your best, and you will excel. Since DJing is a male-dominated profession, have you faced any #metoo moment during your career? What are your thoughts about the #metoo movement going across the country? Paroma:I am pleased that this whole #MeToo Movement has come to light, it is better late than never. I sincerely feel those who have wronged should be punished. However, I hope there are no false alarms raised for #MeToo, just to get into the limelight, as there are some people's names and years of reputation which goes on stake only by one allegation. Social media is a powerful tool. You’ve got the power, use it well, let’s not misuse it. Touchwood, with God’s grace, I have not experienced any #MeToo situation till now. 08 SPUNKY INDIAN

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13. Swimming to Success BY DEEPA NATARAJAN Para Swimmer Niranjan Mukundan speaks about his tryst with the water and his rise to the top. “I was almost paralyzed as a kid. But when doctors suggested swimming or horse riding to strengthen my legs, I chose to swim since I felt fresh in the water. In fact I learnt to swim in ten days,” recalls the 24-year-old champion swimmer from Bengaluru. Faith can move mountains and this para swimmer’s story surely proves that. Junior World Champion Niranjan Mukundan was born with a disease named spina bifida, a neural tube defect which affects the spine or bones of the spine. With clubbed feet, he has had 18 surgeries so far and uses Ankle- foot Orthoses (AFO) assistance to get by. Paralyzed till the age of five with no hopes of even walking let alone competitive swimming, it was as part of hydrotherapy that he took to the water. 10 SPUNKZY INDIAN

14. There were times when his instructor would put him in the shallow end of the pool but he would swim to the deep end on his own. “Such was my love for water.” In around three months, renowned swimming coach John Christopher spotted Niranjan’s talent. “He said I should consider competitive swimming since I had more potential in water than just use it for hydro or aqua therapy.” While they were filled with hope at the mere thought of it, Niranjan’s parents were still hesitant since he couldn’t even stand properly back then. “All they wanted was for me to have a normal life. So it was a huge decision for them to make. But once they decided to put me into competitive swimming, everything just clicked. I started loving the water and found it to be my home,” he says. Travel diaries It has been around 13 years since Niranjan started swimming competitively.  He won his first national medal in 2003 and international one in 2012. He was crowned as the Junior World Champion at the World Junior Games in the Netherlands in 2015. All in a day Ask him what’s a typical day like for a Junior World Champion and he says it’s all about an early start. “I recently completed my Masters in Sports Management so I am only concentrating on swimming at the moment. I have to be at the pool by 5.15 am so my day starts as early as 4.45 am. My sessions go on till 8.15 am.” He adds, “Once I return home, I take a nap till about 11 am and then hit the gym at 11.15-11.30 am. I rest again post lunch and head back to the pool by 4.30-4.45 pm and continue to train till about 7.45 pm.” While he normally takes Sundays off, he jokes that come what may, even tsunami, he has to follow this routine to stay on top of his game! “I have represented India in more than 16 countries so far, be it Europe, UK, US, Malaysia or Singapore,” he beams with pride. Ask him about his favourite place in the world and he says, “I have been to Germany around seven to eight times and it’s my favourite place to swim at. The weather over there is great and I won my first international medal over there in 2012 so that makes it doubly special.” A place that he would love to visit is Australia. “Despite being a small country, Australia has an amazing sporting culture with a lot of universities dedicated to sports,” he says. 11 SPUNKZY INDIAN

15. Eating right 18 Any athlete’s routine is incomplete without a strict diet and the same holds true for Niranjan. Being a big foodie, he enjoys his cheat meals once every 14 days and loves to head to the VV Puram Food Street in Bengaluru to dig into an array of street food. “I have also been training in Thailand since 2016 for the Tokyo Olympics under an Olympic specialist. Since I stay in a remote place, I head to a place 27 kms every few weeks to eat a few ‘gulab jamuns’! But as my coach says, ‘Athletes don’t have taste buds’. Representing India is not something that everyone can do. So these are just a few small sacrifices that I have to make being a sportsperson.” “Yes, nutrition and diet do play a very important role in my career. I am put under a strict diet thanks to which I have seen many positive changes in my life. Since I am a Brahmin, I am a vegetarian and don’t eat meat. Even in vegetarian foods, there are many items that I don’t like, for instance ‘paneer’,” he laughs. “So I consume a lot of eggs since I need to eat a lot of protein,” he adds. Why does India lag behind? “Since many talented people can’t afford the training sessions and don’t get support at the right time, they end up quitting,” he laments. While Niranjan feels that disable-friendly infrastructure is the need of the hour in the country, he also notes that the government should support sportspersons during the training period instead of showering them with rewards post victory. Inspiration, future plans and more With his parents being a pillar of support for him, Niranjan considers former cricketer Rahul Dravid as his inspiration. “I just love his composure and the way he handles pressure both on and off the field. I have interacted with him many times since he is on the advisory board of GoSports Foundation, the sports company whom I am under. But every time I talk to him, I am just awestruck at how amazing he is!” While currently he has qualified for the world championships and is training to qualify for the paralympics at the Tokyo Olympics the next year, his long term dream is to open his own academy after he retires. 12 SPUNKY INDIAN His advice for budding swimmers is to “do what you love and love what you do”.

16. 13 Picture-perfect Cooking SPUNKY INDIAN Each time we watch a new season in Master Chef or see a friend post a gorgeous Insta or FB picture of some exotic Moroccan dish she cooked, we all want to be that person who can whip up a perfect recipe, don’t we? Bangalore is brimming over with people wanting to get their hands into kneading the dough, julienning veggies, learning to bake, saute, fry, try their hand at gourmet, and bring the whole world on their table for their families and friends to enjoy. The fact that many of us are travelling and experiencing cuisines from the world over, or want to learn new dishes so we can make wholesome food ourselves at home, is driving this craze further. The city’s growing expat population that also wants to learn various local cuisines is another growing segment. Catering perfectly to these whims and fancies of such Bangaloreans are the numerous professional cooking studios and classes around the city. State-of-the-art kitchen equipment and gadgetry, world-travelled well-trained chefs to teach, customizable itineraries, menus and classes, Insta-ready setups…they boast them all. BAKING ACADEMIES, BESPOKE WORKSHOPS, COOKING STUDIOS – THE PLACES AND PEOPLE YOU CAN TURN TO IN BANGALORE TO LEARN COOKING AND HAVE FUN WITH FOOD ARE JUST TOO MANY! -BHUMIKA K.

17. At their beautifully done up Slurp Cooking Studio (www.slurpstudio.in) friends and chefs Sarabjeet Singh and Faseeulla Saifulla cater to all interest and intention levels  -- for those who just want to bond over cooking in a private class to a 4-week course for those maybe planning a  food start-up. With young working professionals, weekend course is the rage, and a way to let off steam and unwind after a hectic corporate week. Couples make a beeline for cooking classes that allow “we time” therapy and even a Valentine’s Day surprise for partners. Whether you are a family who believes that “a family that cooks together sticks together”, or a bunch of friends who just want to hang around together in the kitchen to experiment with a new cuisine and then eat what you have cooked over a glass of wine, or whether you are a corporate entity looking to get your employees into the team spirit with a cook-off or a team-building exercise…the reasons to be in the kitchen are apparently many. Manju’s Cooking & Baking Classes (www.manjuscookingclass.com), one of the oldest in the city, for example, entices people with the idea that you can make restaurant-like dishes at home, at a much lower cost. Kiddie birthday parties are a hot favourite too at these studios – kids get to bake and eat the cake too! 14 SPUNKY INDIAN

18. Natasha Celmi (www.cucinamiabynatasha.com) a food professional and passionate home cook conducts culinary workshops or “cookshops” for both adults and kids through her outfit Cucina Mia at the many popular cafes and restaurants around the city, featuring vegan Mediterranean specials, or helping you whip up a healthy party menu. Satish Venkatachaliah’s Something’s Cooking, the famous studio in Koramangala (www.somethingscooking.in) offers 8 cooking islands, each with their own cooktop, oven, chimney; they even have an open-flame traditional coal-grill BBQ setup. Basically, the works …all that you see on TV! Cooking class is no longer about making notes, but having a hands-on experience. If you are high on baking and want to bake your own bread at home, or learn to decorate cakes, Lavonne Academy of Baking Science and Pastry Arts (www.lavonne.in) takes you to another “pro” level altogether. 15 You could learn sugar art, or “be a baker in weeks” if you keep at it persistently over six weekends, or work harder for a diploma! SPUNKY INDIAN

19. Ethnic Vibes in Home Décor BY RASHMI GOPAL RAO Getting a traditional makeover is not always an expensive affair. If you are a fan of all things vibrant and eclectic and wish that your abode reflects the same vibes, integrating Indian elements into your home décor is a great idea.  Bright and cheerful, they are sure to add a warm and vibrant feeling to your space.  Additionally, a fabulous makeover to your home reflects a sense of cosiness apart from giving your home a festive ambience.  Here are some quick ideas to infuse ‘desi’ elements to add charm to your space. Bright colours While much has been said about Scandinavian decor with white, pastels and soft hues taking centre stage, the Indian look is all about bright colours.  Consider painting parts of your home in bold colours like yellow or maybe even burnt orange.  Highlighting only an accent wall in this shade while leaving the rest of the house light is a good idea.  This pop of colour instantly enlivens the space and lends it a unique character.  Decorate the wall with either Tanjore frames or Madhubani art, and you have your perfect “feature” wall ready! Consider painting parts of your home in bold colours like yellow or maybe even burnt orange.  Highlighting only an accent wall in this shade while leaving the rest of the house light is a good 16 SPUNKY INDIAN idea.

20. Wooden furniture There is nothing more classic than solid wood or teak furniture.  Replete with grace and majesty, this style of furniture adds to the regal, traditional look.  Accessorise it with silken cushions or cushions with block print or mirror work covers to complete the look.  If you have the luxury of space, there is nothing like having a traditional swing amidst your living room.  Remember those old four-poster beds, dressers, study tables and chest of drawers in your ancestral home? Well, never discard any of that for old is always gold! 17 SPUNKY INDIAN

21. Brass and antiques Another great idea would be to use brass accessories in abundance. Brass idols, lamps and ‘urlis’ add to the festive look.  Scour the attic for your grandmother’s brass vessels, throw in a potted plant and you have the perfect accessory for your corner.  A large mirror with a vintage frame can instantly transform any dull wall.  Antique brackets, door knobs and masks form great accents and lend the space a distinct look. Furnishings and upholstery If you are looking to add a touch of elegance and sophistication to your space, classic handlooms and organic cotton can never go wrong.   Ethnic prints and native weaves are always a class apart and can help accentuate any space.  Try the geometric accents of Ikkat or the bright hues of Kalamkari.  Creating drapes out of your mother’s cotton or silk saree or adding an embellished shawl or dupatta as a throw on the sofa is a sure way of adding a quirky yet vibrant vibe. A wealthy Indian rug in hues of red, purple or blue can complete the look. 18 SPUNKY INDIAN

22. Handicrafts Because India’s culture is a kaleidoscope of colours and includes a wide variety of native crafts, adding in Indian handicrafts as accessories is a great option.  Whether it is the colourful toys of Channapatna or the masks of Cheriyal or even Bastar artwork, all of them add a unique character to your home. So, next time you travel make sure you pick up regional handicrafts as souvenirs so that you can accessorise your home with happy memories! Wall art If you are a fan of indigenous art, consider painting a wall with tribal or folk art. The foyer area or balcony or even the wall outside your main door is ideal to get this ‘traditional’ makeover. While Warli art is a popular choice, Gond and Madhubani are equally exciting options. Allow the art to be the highlight of this wall and avoid over-accessorising it. Rangoli and accessories Getting a traditional makeover need not always be an expensive affair.  Simple things go a long way in adding a classic look.  Adorn your entrance with Rangoli or kolam, use bright colours or even fresh flower petals to enhance the pattern.  Use plenty of fresh flowers.  You can either float flowers in brass urlis or make simple arrangements in pots or vases. Hibiscus, roses and lilies not only add colour but oodles of warmth.  19 SPUNKY INDIAN Use terracotta lamps, traditional lanterns and diyas for a celebratory vibe.  Upcycle an old trunk by painting it in bright colours and use it as a statement piece in your living room. Old window frames and benches can be restored and upcycled to lend a rustic chic look.

23. Taiki - Influenced by Japanese and Korean Cuisine The word Taiki is derived from two words – ‘tai’ (great) and ‘Ki’ (brightness), which perfectly resonates with the setting. Influenced by Japanese and Korean cuisine, Taiki is a modern Asian restaurant located in the heart of the city. It was founded by Krish Nayak and Apeksha Kamath under Vara Food Works, and started operations in December 2018 in Indiranagar in Bangalore, on 100 ft Road. The Pan-Asian menu brings together dishes from Japanese noodle bars, street food from Korea and Thailand and some amazing flavours from other parts of Asia. Besides food, the focus is on creating a great dining experience with cosy ambience and efficient service. The restaurant features modernist Japanese architecture. Though it is housed in a narrow space of 10’x120’, the mirror walls and skylights give a sense of soothing space. The floor plan is minimalistic, warm and cozy. The interiors are a blend of modernism and contemporary features with neutral wall tones and art/light installations that convey class whilst staying current and vibrant. 20 SPUNKY INDIAN

24. The menu includes varied dishes from Asian countries with a special focus on Korean and Japanese cuisine. The signature dishes include the delicious Fiery Chicken Gimbap, Korean Fried Chicken, scrumptious Thai Curry & Jasmine Rice, Yaki Udon, Prawn Tempura, Jjigae - Korean Stew and many more. Apeksha Kamath is the Co-founder of Taiki Restaurant.  She finished her MBA, Marketing and HR from Alliance Business Academy and did a stint in Doray HR Solution as a Director-Recurrent & Business Development. She not only brings her passion for food but also almost a decade of her professional experience in the HR industry to the new venture. Travel and easy accessibility means that audience here is exposed to flavours beyond the usual comfort of Indian-Chinese dishes such as chopsuey, chowmein, chilli chicken and manchurian. Baos, Ramen, Japanese Curries, Krapao, Sushi, Khao Suey have become the new go-to foods in Bangalore. She had always wanted to start her own restaurant and with Taiki, is just about starting to realise her dream. Apeksha’s vision is to bring pan Asian cuisines to Namma Bengaluru across multiple locations. Pan-Asian has been the single most dominant food trend in Bangalore for the last few years. The flavours from Japan, Korea, Thailand, Cambodia etc. are bold, exotic and different, which appeal to the cosmopolitan Bangalore crowd. Indians are not totally oblivious to Pan Asian food. Unlike Western food, these are the flavours that we relate to better. A huge variety in Pan Asian cuisine means that it is possible to engineer the menu without having to drastically tweak the originals.   21 SPUNKY INDIAN

25. “Taiki brings together dishes from Japanese noodle bars, street food from Korea and Thailand and some amazing flavours from other parts of Asia. Our street-eats are bold and unique and can cater to a wide range of taste buds. We use the best quality ingredients and super fresh products to make sure that our customers are satisfied and happy”, Apeksha informed. Besides food, our patrons love the relaxed feel of the restaurant and friendly service. Our ambience has minimalistic overtones with natural light beaming through for most of the day, which makes the setting and dining experience very unique.    Having a restaurant of my own has been a long-standing dream. My years spent in USA and frequent travels around the world meant that I could try many wonderful cuisines of different styles and cultures.  Over the last few years, my personal favourite has been Pan-Asian food - Japanese & Korean food in particular. 22 SPUNKY INDIAN

26. “For some reason or the other, women restaurant owners have always been a rare breed. This holds true not just for India but the world over. More and more women are now using their entrepreneurial drive to enter the hospitality industry. Support from family has been a key deciding factor in me taking up this opportunity to start a restaurant. Woman entrepreneurs in India are now being recognized and appreciated. It's more of a responsibility than a privilege as there is relatively more of an onus to find the right balance between family and career”, Apeksha quoted.   Team building and tapping resources is the key to running a successful business, she signed off. 23 SPUNKY INDIAN

27. Not Your Regular Holiday: Naggar Aastha Maheshwari It was yet another awful tripping experience at Naggar in the state of hills, Himachal Pradesh. We stayed at a hotel in Kullu, which was barely 20 km away from Naggar. Nicholas Roerich Art Gallery Our first target on the point was Nicholas Roerich Art Gallery. I, being an art lover, was exhilarated to be there. It was smashing to witness the art and antiques, prestige and heritage of India in the form of paintings by the Roerich family. What I liked the most about it is that it keeps us away from the chaotic life of the city. The place is quite picturesque with the serene beauty of hills, lovely flowers in the surroundings and beside the river Beas, that make it a perfect place for those who are in search of peace. I must say, it was very well-maintained. This vast collection of art made us go back in history. 24 SPUNKY INDIAN

28. This was the house of Nicholas that has turned out into the gallery while a small outhouse is converted into a museum. There is a garden outside which leads to a cliff like a place where tourists can go and experience the beauty of the Himalayas. The museum still has Roerich’s car, that too well-maintained. We quickly managed to take out 1.5-2 hours to explore this place. It remains open throughout the week from 10am to 5pm, with a nominal fee of INR 50 pp, which is really worth for an art lover. This completed our first spot, leaving us quite satisfied and equally stirred for the rest of our journey. Naggar Castle After having lunch, we headed towards the prominent Naggar Castle that remains open for public all 7 days a week from 7 am to 10 pm with a highly nominal fee of INR 15pp. Just a few km away from the art gallery, this splendid Naggar Castle, situated on top of a small mountain, was built in the 15th century and currently it is a heritage hotel run by HP Tourism Dept. It is a must-visit place for art lovers, nature lovers and the ones with historical and religious beliefs. Some of Roerich’s paintings are kept for public display inside the castle. We literally enjoyed the bounty of nature, and the serenity and calmness of mountains and the view from the balcony are phenomenal. The interior of the castle is worth noticing. 25 A fantastic blend of European and Himalayan styles of architecture, the villa has a dignified front and well-thought interiors with fireplaces and fitting staircases, constructed with timber and stones which is very much in tune with its surroundings. SPUNKY INDIAN

29. Gauri Shankar Temple Below the castle, there is an ancient Gauri Shankar temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva. This temple is believed to be the last monument of the Gurjara-Pratihara traditions. It is famous for its Shikhara style structure, having a dome-shaped top with a square shaped base. We typically spent half an hour there. The stone carvings on this temple with the stunning medieval architecture amazed us. This unique mansion also houses a temple Jagti Patt in its courtyard. The unusual fact about this temple is that it has other slabs of deodar timber which makes it earthquake resistant. 26 SPUNKY INDIAN

30. “Go where you feel most alive.” Now, this was the time to trek, Naggar not only houses some trek trails but also is the base to a lot of other treks. Enthusiasts and adventure seekers have a lot to explore in this small village. Rumsu Trek to Rumsu We chose Rumsu as our trekking destination which is barely 5 km from Naggar, but we used a short cut for our trek, but this way contained rocky terrain. After this small trek, we had our way back to Naggar, had our dinner and night stay in our hotel. Learn something about Buddhism at the school in Dhapko Shedrupling Monastery. Dhapko Shedrupling Monastery Next morning we headed towards Dhapko Shedrupling Monastery, a very tranquil place that left us with some different kind of inner peace. This large, holy and peaceful Buddhist Monastery, dedicated to and inaugurated by Dalai Lama, is located high up in the hills of Kullu rendering this place a serene view to the viewers. If you are planning for Kullu, then this destination should get added in your checklist. It not only provides an astonishing view of hills and trees outside but is also quite near to the river rafting point (which was yet another breathtaking experience) and there is a school in its premises for children, so even you can learn something about Buddhism. 27 SPUNKY INDIAN

31. Tripura Sundari Temple On our way back to Naggar, we visited the Tripura Sundari temple, quite close to the Roerich Art Gallery. It’s a glorious old temple built of deodar wood with a triple-layered roof. The pillars and doors of this magnificent temple are made out of wood and have intricately carved designs. We were welcomed into the temple by a lovely wood-carved Ganesha, and then the carvings and structure of the temple blew our mind. If in Naggar, one must visit this tranquil place. Jana Waterfalls In no time, after lunch, we left for Jana waterfalls. It is indeed a beautiful natural waterfall surrounded by deodar trees, pine trees, apple orchards and snow-covered mountain peaks rendering it as a perfect picnic spot. We trekked up the hill and view from the top was astonishing. One can either leisurely swim in the small pool of this fall or have a refreshing bath or both. You can spend here as many hours as you want to. We returned by 5 pm. Naggar is a complete blend of art, history, adventure, nature, architecture, serenity and religious belief leading it to be a perfect place for everyone to visit. 28 SPUNKY INDIAN

32. Bespoke Jewellery for Every Occasion Bedazzle in jewellery, nobody will be able to resist looking at you on the special occasions As the spring comes in, how can we not talk about the brand Archana Parasrampuria? The floral designs and patterns of all things green have influenced some of the bestsellers. The movement of nature, Archana’s love for nature, flowers, travels and her family’s heirloom jewellery deeply influenced her designs. Archana started off with designing jewelry when she was a newly wedded woman with dreams in her eyes, have a passion to work, with minimal knowledge about the industry and without any prior industrial experience. Over a period of 25 years, she gained exposure to the market, the people and the trends. The experiences with different people from different parts of the world give her an opportunity to learn which can be seen in her designs strongly. Archana traveled extensively to almost different parts of the world to find the rarest and distinct jewels. “Just recently I had my two sons join me and have enhanced the brand's hold on marketing, business development and financial planning”, Archana informed. In an exclusive interview, she shares about her work as a designer and reveals her future plans. 29 SPUNKY INDIAN

33. What is the best part of your work that you love the most? Archana: Designing for me brings about clear expression, a feeling of empowerment and enables me to create something out of nothing. Penning down my ideas and bringing about fluidity, style and balance in my jewellery is extremely satisfying. I also take pride in the trust that the customers display in me and my work. What is the unique characteristic of your work? Archana: As a designer, I believe originality holds supreme importance, and for me it's the key aspect of my work. I will never stop innovating because if you aren't moving forward, you are only moving backward! Another important aspect is to understand the client and their requirements. Once we do that, we are able to marry our design sensibility along with their vision to create something spectacular. What are the challenges you have faced in your career? Archana: Juggling work, home and 2 young sons was challenging and demanded a lot of my time. I was unable to prioritize and focus on designing. That's when my mother-in-law stepped in and helped me take care of my children while I was at work. The second and more important problem was that I was a woman in a completely male-dominated industry and no one took me seriously. At first, it was disheartening, but I decided to take the challenge in my stride, and here I am 25 years later. 30 SPUNKY INDIAN

34. What pushes you forward to innovate? What kind of experiences influence your work? What is your creative mantra? Archana: Our clients have immense trust in our product and they keep coming back to us time and again. Over the years, they have referred our work to their friends and family, who have also turned out to be loyal customers for us. It is this very faith in the label, Archana Parasrampuria, that constantly pushes us to innovate and create unique statement pieces. Creative mantra - Creativity and style go hand in hand with comfort. Each piece that we design even though exquisite, must be comfortable to wear. We believe that this multi-functionality will enable brides to feel that the jewellery they buy for their big day is actually an investment that can be used afterward, and for us, we are happy that our customers adorn our creations time and again. Please describe a recent collection that you worked on from conception to final creation. Archana: Our latest bridal collection comprises some of the most exciting new  pieces that we have recently achieved. Our contemporary thought the process behind this collection has enabled us to create bridal jewellery pieces as multifunctional and wearable signs. We have created necklaces that are large and layered, and yet, they can be separated. Our bridal bracelets can easily be converted into a wearable choker style. Tell us something about your jewellery that no one else knows. Our design process is an extremely meticulous process. Each piece goes through a couple of processes, which span over a month or more. We present the client with at least 4 to 5 variations of the finalized design and then work towards the final product. A lot of time, effort and attention to detail go in achieving the final product, which our clients are aware of and that is exactly how we get our rewards. 31 SPUNKY INDIAN

35. JEWELLERY IS ABOUT MEMORIES, EMOTIONS, MESSAGES AND SO MUCH MORE 32 SPUNKY INDIAN Learn more by visiting our website: www.archanaparasrampuria.com

36. TRAVEL TRENDS FOR THE YEAR 2019-20 We at Traworld swear by the World Travel! Travel lets you experience life and the beautiful facets of living across the globe. Experiencing the magical beauty around the world through our own eyes is truly magical. With the growing consumer appetite for best travel experiences anywhere across the globe, we aim at taking travel to unexplored heights with a range of our uber luxurious, sturdy, stylish and super affordable product range. If you still haven’t jotted your annual travel itinerary for the year let us help you with that by putting forth the five top Travel trends for the year 2019-20 that will surely be on everyone’s mind. G L O B E T R O T T E R If you have been dreamy-eyed about traveling the globe, go ahead and plan your dream vacation with Traworld’s range of hard luggage trolley luggage bag- Globetrotter. With its sleek design in uber stylish color, it can be your perfect partner to travel the world with you. Safeguarded by a TSA lock system it has wet pockets inside which can help you organize your long travel plans. To begin with planning your luxury holiday with your special someone or family anywhere across the globe, your best travel companion can be Traworld’s Booster trolley luggage bag which has an elegant look and feel. From the hard luggage segment, the trolley luggage comes with TSA lock system and anti-theft zipper. B O O S T E R 33 The colors for the product range are also carefully chosen which will make one fall instantly in love with the product. An ideal companion for your family getaways. SPUNKY INDIAN

37. If you are adventurous at heart or are looking to explore an adventurous holiday destination that’s been on your mind for a while now, Costa Rica trolley luggage bag from Traworld is your best luggage buddy for the trip. C O S T A R I C A The hard luggage trolley bag with a built-in lock system and super stylish color range will lure the adventurous side of you which ensures to be a travel compact and rugged yet in style. So set yourself free and take the trekking trip you have long been wanting to undertake and explore the world around you- Traworld way. V I E N N A If you are traveling for work and seeking the best probable solution, Traworld has the perfect solution for you through its Vienna range of soft-luggage trolley bags that have multiple sectioned pockets to keep your office or work-related must have’s safe and in order for your immediate use. The range of luggage is designed in such a way that it can also fit in as your cabin luggage and you can also carry it with you wherever you are on the go. The bags are stylish and made in superior colors to suit your officetaste. Keeping it classy and minimalistic in design is our thought behind this range of luggage. M O S C O W If you are seeking a fun time holiday with your bunch of friends and looking to get away to a fun place, the Traworld luggage product Moscow is your ideal partner to carry while you have a fun-filled holiday time and look forward to that perfect get away with friends. It allows you to splurge on your holidays with its expandable capacity to carry that extra bit for your last minute travel needs and shop while you enjoying the vacation. Never miss a chance to travel and let nothing stop you from exploring the nature’s bounty, be a go-getter and jet-setter! With a whirl of choices your way that are easily available, affordable and match up to your style quotient, you could never miss a day of being in style and traveling smart. Promise yourself a year of enthralling travels ahead with Traworld’s range of exclusive trolley luggage bags available easily across retail stores and online. 34 SPUNKY INDIAN

38. RECIPE: MARGARITA VEGETABLES By Renu Dayal A different version of fajita vegetable, tasty and healthy. Ingredients Method for the vegetables 1 ½ cups par boiled broccoli florets 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 In a non-stick vessel heat the olive oil, add the jalapenos and sauté for ½ minute.  Add the parsley and sauté for ½ minute.  Add the broccoli, red capsicum, green capsicum, carrots, French beans, balsamic vinegar and salt to taste. Cook for 3 minutes.  Add 4 tbsp tomato salsa.  Mix thoroughly.  Serve hot. ½ red capsicum, sliced ½ green capsicum, sliced  1 cup carrots, peeled, boiled and cut into thin long strips  1 cup French beans, sliced and boiled  3 tbsp chopped parsley  3 tbsp olive oil  1 tbsp balsamic vinegar  1 tbsp chopped jalapenos  4 tbsp tomato salsa Salt to taste 35 SPUNKY INDIAN Preparation: 40 min Cooking: 5 min Serves: 6 to 8 You can serve this dish independently or you can use it as a Margarita Fajita and serve it with chapattis.

39. In a conflict between the heart and the brain, follow your heart. S W A M I V I V E K A N A N D A APRIL, 2019 EDITION Designed by www.lonelycanopy.com