The dust and inevitable concretisation around the city have become part of a Mumbaikar’s lives. In a report by this newspaper (April 22, 2025), a four-year study by Respirer Living Sciences revealed that Mumbaikars continue to breathe air with PM10 (particulate matter) levels in the city consistently above the national safety threshold of 60 micrograms per cubic metre all-year round. “Though asthma is influenced by many other conditions, presently, the poor air quality tops it all,” shares Dr Sundeep Mestri, pulmonologist, MGM New Bombay Hospital, Vashi. Describing recurrent cough, runny nose and breathlessness as common symptoms, Mestri points out that the symptoms are manageable, provided the right measures. Dusty city Tejasvi Momaya is among the many adapting to the situation. The 33-year-old Thane resident’s asthma flared up over the last few months. Like many asthmatics, she relies on her inhaler and medications. However, she recommends additions. Regular breathing exercises and yoga can help alleviate asthma symptoms “An air purifier at home helps. When it gets too stressful, I occasionally take a break from the city, preferably in the hills,” she shares. Radhika Bhatia does not always have that luxury, being an entrepreneur. A resident of Vikhroli, Bhatia has suffered from congenital asthma. “While my resistance has improved, I am still vulnerable to exposure to dust particles and pollution,” she admits. The solution lies in self-care and adapting. Knowing her condition, the 29-year-old chooses to limit where and when she commutes in the city. “I always protect myself by wearing a mask. My choice of commute will be through my car, or a cab,” she shares. Radhika Bhatia Hitarthi Pandya did not let her acute bronchitis stop her work, even in the dusty Mumbai summer. “I have come up with a travel kit of my own, that is a part of my outfit,” she reveals. Equipped with two double-masks, a nebulizer and medication, the kit helps her stay on point. Learning through illness For Pandya, the struggle with allergies and wheezing led to a personalised solution after several trial-and-error methods. She suggests speaking to an expert to adopt the use of supplements like liposomal vitamin C and a lung detox to boost the immune system. “I have developed a routine every night. I opt for a session of salt water gargling, and some somatic exercises before bed. The somatic exercises help open up my chest to enable better breathing,” she says. Bhatia opts for regular steam inhalation in addition to the breathing exercises. The rising dust particles from debris, construction and traffic has led to a rise in respiratory illnesses across the city. PIC/ASHISH RAJE Diet also plays an important role in reducing inflammation. Pandya observes, “I avoid any food that can cause bloating, or eating till my stomach is full. It causes the stomach to pressure the diaphragm. You cannot fix the external issues completely, but do not let it stop you from your goals.” Effective management Understanding your symptoms and managing them can help, shares Mestri. “Early medical treatment should be administered to avoid viral and bacterial infections. Adequate respiratory exercises, especially physical activity should be encouraged in both groups (young and old) to keep their cardio healthy.” Tejasvi Momaya and Hitarthi Pandya Breathe easy with these tips >> Double-mask when stepping out>> Steam, and somatic exercises on a regular basis>> Avoid smoking>> Avoid dusty places and commute only when needed>> Understand your body’s needs, and act accordingly Dr Sundeep Mestri Case study: Be alert, act soon A 45-year-old traffic constable had recurring bouts of sneezing, redness of eye and coughing over the last one and half year. In the recent past, he had developed breathlessness as well. The significant wheezing and breathlessness inhibited his walking. He was started on bronchodilators, anti-allergies, cough suppressant, and inhalers. Within 10 days, he showed improvement. The issues returned when he stopped medication. I had to explain that if he wishes to stay healthy, the inhalers had to continue. The moral of the story is early and continued medication, as long as your physician advises. Do not self-medicate. Courtesy Dr Sundeep Mestri
05 May,2025 10:23 AM IST | Mumbai | Shriram Iyengar | Minal SanchetiLast week, curator, archivist and writer Neville Tuli launched the Tuli Research Centre for India Studies (TRIS). TRIS is a digital platform that seeks to function as a search engine and a repository for researchers, scholars, creative professionals, and the general public interested in India Studies. It reflects over 30 years of Tuli’s efforts towards archiving India and providing an alternative educational framework, free from interfering ideology and its dependence on funding. He tells us over the call from Delhi, “Unless education is first fundamentally free of patronage, it becomes very hard to maintain a certain integrity.” Neville Tuli at an exhibition. Pics Courtesy/ Tuli Research Centre for India Studies, New Delhi (TRIS) Tuli is of the belief that even though education in India has held a high station within families, the joy and process of learning have been disrespected. Not only is there an emphasis on rote learning, but the focus of knowledge dissemination too remains limited to textual learning, despite so much packed within visual forms, he elaborates. “Knowledge is as inherent in the visual as it is in the textual,” he says. We’re not provided with enough tools to understand the language of the visual. For instance, he reveals, “Indian art was being taught in the 1990s, with black-and-white textbooks without an image because one didn’t want to pay the extra cost for coloured images. Human mind only went along with the logic of the written text, which had boredom inherent in it.” What’s in store? The idea for this archive germinated in 2020, and since then the team has been building the platform. There are 16 categories, which range from cinema, fine arts, and photography to architectural heritage, economics, and animal-human-nature continuum. One of the most fascinating archives on the website is of cinema. A search for Raj Kapoor, Gulzar, Amitabh Bachchan, or Jaya Bhaduri, will take you to posters of their films, song-synopsis booklets, out-of-print magazines, books spotlighting their work, old reviews, lobby cards, and photograph stills over the years. “I lived outside India for 30 years. For any Indian who’s lived outside, Hindi songs are the greatest glue to their family and their country. Given my mother was a die-hard fan of Hindi cinema, my love for its songs started as a young child,” Tuli reminisces. “Hindi film songs allow us to believe we belong here.” Elvis Presley themed playing cards The basic unit of the website is an object: an icon, a city, a director, an exhibition, a sanctuary, etc., not an idea. “I did not want to impose an ideology,” Tuli shares. Although a quick search on the Internet throws up texts, many old photographic and written ones have been lost. This is where such archives become instrumental to help understand the developing language of modern and contemporary India. Search engine Tuli recollects a childhood memory of visiting the collector Hussainibhai Bookletwala. The latter had invited Tuli home after finding him near the Novelty Cinema on Grant Road. “The family of four lived in a confined dark space, yet he had hundreds of little lockers with his 55-year-old collection of Hindi song-synopsis booklets.” That was a defining moment for the archivist, inspiring him to expand his own collection. Tuli subscribed to Marg magazines, and actively looked out for memorabilia everywhere, including auction houses, which sold posters of Hollywood cinema, and personal collections of scholars, collectors, distributors. For the team at TRIS, the biggest challenge was then in transferring this treasure to precisely categorised and updated excel sheets and maintaining them for the website. They tried numerous Excel sheet templates and formats for each particular document type. The end result is arguably, a win-win for India’s envious cultural ecosystem. Log on to: tuliresearchcentre.org Guide’s Top 5 cool finds 1 Photographer Felice Beato’s Lucknow series (Mutiny photographs)2 Gieve Patel’s 1966 solo exhibition invite3 Film advertisements and handbills of Charlie Chaplin’s work4 Sharmila Tagore’s photographic stills on Filmfare covers and lobby cards5 Elvis Presley themed playing cards, 1997
05 May,2025 09:58 AM IST | Mumbai | Nandini VarmaFor an entire generation, the first visual experience of the sport of drifting came courtesy of the film, Fast and Furious: Tokyo Drift (2006). Han, the suave street-racing professional, gives the young protagonist Sean a lesson in the wide winding roads and vast, empty parking lots of Japan. While Mumbai has neither — you’d be lucky if you find a road that has not been dug up — a brother-sister duo from Gurugram are playing Han in a hope to unearth new motorsport talent in the city. “I grew up in Gurugram learning how to drive surrounded by racing enthusiasts. I attempted time trials, circuits, and races, but felt out of place. Then I discovered drifting. Something instantly clicked,” shares Mugdha Grover, co-founder, Bad Boi Drifts. For the uninitiated, drifting refers to a technique where the driver oversteers, causing the car to slide along a turn sideways while maintaining control. This creates a visually striking, controlled skid. The drivers in action at a competition in Bangkok Mudit Grover, Mugdha’s brother and co-founder, has recently returned from the South East Asia Drift Series in Thailand with a podium finish in the amateur category. At the upcoming beginner-level course in Mumbai, the duo will be joined by their team of instructors in assisting absolute beginners behind the wheel. “The beginner sessions cover everything from fundamentals like steering, timing the drift and controlling the vehicle. As we progress, the course grows more challenging, threading together multiple drifts, putting on a show, and drifting with a partner car in tandem,” Mugdha reveals. Practising this sport comes with its own price tag, Mugdha agrees. From getting your cars tuned by experts to finding the right place to practice, networking is a skill that will take you places, she suggests. “Much like any other motorsport, drifting is best enjoyed in the company of other enthusiasts. The community is slowly gathering steam here in Gurugram, but Mumbai is not far behind,” she assures us. Mugdha performs a donut stunt in her drift car With their proximity to the renowned Buddh International Circuit in Greater Noida and a workshop where the duo spends days customising their rides to perfection, we cannot contest the fact that Mumbai has some catching up to do. “There are a handful of racing tracks in Mumbai that allow drifting from time to time. But that only means we have to make the most of our time in the city,” Grover remarks. Where does someone who grew up daydreaming of pulling off drifts like Han go after these day-long sessions, we ask the athlete. The natural progression, we learn, is to become a part of the community, learn how to tune your car, and finally find private open spaces to practise. If you have a thing for the podium, the duo is open to mentoring new talent. Mugdha Grover “It’s a long drive with all our vehicles and equipment from Gurugram to Mumbai. It’s almost like moving a whole garage between cities,” Grover points out. After their pitstop in Thane this weekend, the duo hopes to return to Mumbai once every month to keep tabs on the growing scene. Will they be drifting into the city in style? You wish. They’d be lucky if they find a road that has not been dug up. ON May 10 and 11; 9 am and 4 pmAT Raymond Ground, Pokhran Road, Thane West.LOG ON TO district.inENTRY Rs 1,50,000 (includes access to a drift car, instructor and refreshments)
05 May,2025 09:02 AM IST | Mumbai | Devashish KambleAuthors like Ruskin Bond, Agatha Christie and JK Rowling were part of our growing up days. But when it came to William Shakespeare’s works, be it gauging Hamlet’s grief-stricken soliloquies, or Romeo’s passionate declarations of love, it was important to get a grip on the language and grammar. Writer-director Amitosh Nagpal begs to differ. “When we were touring the world for shows of Piya Behrupiya, which is a Hindi-Bundeli adaptation of Shakeapeare’s Twelfth Night, we noticed how we had to include subtitles for the audience. This prompted me to think about the importance of language in striking a chord with viewers. In India, the English we speak is very different and layered with accents. The idea then was to adapt a Shakespeare play that a middle-class viewer would enjoy and relate to,” he shares with us over a call, a night before the tenth production of Mandli Talkies’ play, Middle Class Dream of a Summer’s Night, at a city venue. Having toured cities like Ahmedabad and Delhi, the two-hour long musical production will take the Bard’s 16th century comedy, A Midsummer’s Night Dream and put a colloquial twist to it. “If a middle-class person goes to watch a Shakespearean play, they might not be able to relate to it. There is great writing of course, but the language would be very alienating to them, which is why it was important to stage a production that is inspired from the speech of a common man, which often consists of phrases like “Come forward, beta,” or “Do this, na.” How a Maharashtrian speaks English is very different from how someone from Tamil Nadu or West Bengal would speak the language. This is what makes the whole thing interesting,” he explains. An alumnus of the National School of Drama, Nagpal’s humble beginnings in Karnal in Haryana often guides his urge to bring in a classic Indian sensibility to his work — a theme that shines through his cinematic and theatrical oeuvre. “Back then, we would often be asked to read and stage plays by Shakespeare. Amitosh Nagpal I would refer to these books that had heavy Hindi translations of the dramas and that would make no sense to me. Nobody really talks like that,” he recalls. This is where the director’s understanding of India’s diverse cultural nuances, especially in the context of a middle class setting finds a spot in the chaotic world of the Shakespearean play where humans collide with fairies, lovers are manipulated and multiple subplots converge for an iconic comedic climax. Nagpal’s adaptation, aided by an ensemble cast and peppered with subtle political commentary and regional humour, will attempt to capture all of this in this production. “I am extremely conscious when it comes to writing for theatre or even cinema. I want the story to reach the last common man in the room. The thing with Shakespeare is that the more you get into his dramas, the more accessible it becomes. I surely plan on exploring more of his work,” he reveals before signing off. ON May 4; 4 pm onwardsAT Experimental Theatre, NCPA, NCPA Marg, Nariman Point. LOG ON TO in.bookmyshow.comENTRY Rs 500
03 May,2025 08:51 AM IST | Mumbai | Divyasha PandaThe Special Hangout, a city-based NGO for children with special abilities, is setting up a unique flea market at the World Trade Centre. The market will have stalls that sell handicrafts, home-cooked food, and fun games for both adults and children. But what makes it different is that the stalls will be set up by children and young adults with special needs. Ritu Vig Ritu Vig, the NGO’s founder, reveals what visitors can expect from the stalls, “You’ll find a beautiful variety: handmade artifacts, expressive paintings, and personalised stationery. There are also stalls filled with delicious baked goods, wholesome food, and fun games.” Throughout the day, the space will host a vibrant line-up of engaging activities like a drum circle, music and movement sessions, art therapy, and hands-on DIY art stalls. A collection of paintings by artist Vanshika, who will present her works at the upcoming flea market The organisation aims to empower children with disabilities. Vig shares the idea behind the flea market, “The idea emerged from something we see all the time — so many people with disabilities have incredible talents, but society often can’t see past their limitations. Whether it’s baking, making beautiful handmade crafts, or cooking with love, their skills are real, and they deserve to be celebrated.” Vanshika Their goal is to create a fully inclusive space where everyone can come together, connect freely, and celebrate the unique talents within the community. She says, “Whether you’re a parent, a child, a student, a professional, or just someone looking for a meaningful day out — you’re invited to be a part of this special experience. ” ON May 3; 12 pm to 6 pm AT North and South Lounge, ground floor, World Trade Centre, Cuffe Parade.FREE
03 May,2025 08:42 AM IST | Mumbai | Minal SanchetiThe first of many sounds we hear on a scorching afternoon in Matharpacady is resident Roydon Gonsalves’s jazz ringtone. “Everybody seems to have the same ringer nowadays. When a phone rings, you must at least know it’s yours, no? This one stands out,” he smiles. It’s serendipitous that we’re in a nearly 400-year-old heritage village, dotted by homes dating back to the 1800s, splashed in bright blue, yellow and green hues. They stand apart, quite effortlessly to say the least, in the evolving Mazgaon neighbourhood. The Holy Cross Oratory is decked with celebratory flowers Earlier this week we had visited the village on the eve of the 150th year anniversary celebrations of the 1875-established Holy Cross Oratory, a cornerstone in many ways for the village’s predominantly Catholic community. During our walk, it’s not just Gonsalves whose phone can’t seem to catch a break. In Matharpacady, the residents are the planners, co-ordinators, the ushers — one for all, all for one. Listed as a heritage precinct by the Heritage Conservation Society, nearly 400 residents and visitors converged outside its oratory for the annual feast on May 1. The Baptista House was built in the 1880s. Pics/Sayyed Sameer Abedi “Do you know what Matharpacady means?” Gonsalves riddles us. Do we? Do you? “Many believe the portmanteau comes from Mahatara (elder) and Pakhadi (village). I don’t buy it,” he shrugs, as he walks us to a vantage point. The winding path takes us through an alley undergoing renovation in a bright purple hue. It’s refreshing to see colours in this city, we point out. “As long as we can keep the builders at bay. Fortunately, even the best of them have a weakness — keeping track of their promises,” the resident laughs. At the elevated viewpoint now, he reminds us that the Pakhadi sits atop the Maatha (head) of Mazgaon. Roydon Gonsalves and Stanislaus Baptista This explosion of colours and melting pot of artistic styles encompassing European sensibilities, Goan influences and Koli hints, is possibly what drew creative minds like Mario Miranda, Behram Contractor and the D’Cunha brothers to its lanes. Or perhaps there was more. “We had some excellent speakeasies around here. Pinto’s Bar and Auntie’s Bar were favourites. These became hubs for artists and journalists who would camp here for hours at end,” the resident recalls fondly. A view of Mi Casa with the Oratory in the background But notable figures weren’t just mere visitors to this heritage village. Joseph ‘Kaka’ Baptista, who quietly gave the Home Rule Movement direction with his more vocal counterpart; Bal Gangadhar Tilak, was born here in 1864. If you ask around, you can still find the erstwhile residence of Dr Ubaldo Mascarenhas, who served as the 19th Mayor of Bombay from 1948 to 1949; although it doesn’t stand in perfect shape. For now, Stanislaus Baptista, who writes the online Matharpacady Village blog with Gonsalves, is happy that the BMC has given the concrete path outside the house a good rinse before the feast. A stream of water now flows through the alleys, symbolically connecting D’Silva House, Baptista House, Fancy Manzil and Mi Casa. Among these peculiarly titled homes is a grey two-storeyed building that Baptista believes is a sign of the times. He pulls out his phone to show us a dated picture of a humble tiled-roof home that once stood in its place until three years ago. With the writings on the wall, the village turns to its young residents to hold the fort. The kicker — there aren’t many. Rochelle Baptista, now in her 30s, remembers the distinct echo of indistinct chatter that would fill the lanes come summer. “We would bring out our badminton racquets and play on for hours. You’d never see these alleys empty,” she remembers. Her toddler Asher, now has only six friends in the village to call out to play. But in a village that survived the 1896 Plague and the COVID-19 pandemic without major casualties, hope is never in deficit. At the feast, Rochelle harmonised with musicians from the village in a choir performance joined by musicians from across Mumbai. “We’re trying our best to keep the community together through cultural programming. The attendance is still only a fraction of what we were used to, but it’s a good start,” she assures us. There is some precedent to Rochelle’s chosen path. Gonsalves remembers how harmonies would once emanate from balconies of these homes every Sunday morning, thanks to ingenious musicians like Joseph Azavedo and the The Carvelles, the village’s own Beatles. Conductor of the Melita Plectrum Orchestra, Azavedo’s more intriguing musical experiments include transforming a carpenter’s saw into a musical instrument. Picked up by musicians Lt Cdr Eric Lopes and Ian Lopes alongside Dagmar Lopes, the collective went on to build a wide repertoire of Italian classical music. Anil Dias, a young sports journalist who sees us off on our way back, sums up why most stories we hear here begin with a ‘once upon a time’. “Most of the homeowners, well into their 70s, have no one after them here. Their children have migrated overseas or to gaothans in north Mumbai. Soon, they will have no option but to sell,” he says. As we brace ourselves to disappear into the shadows of tall grey buildings waiting outside, we spot Stanislaus, now in unassuming attire, quietly scrubbing away on a spot in his 1880s bungalow. He’s clearly not buying this selling idea any time soon. Log on to matharpacadyvillage.com 1875 year Holy Cross Oratory was established in Matharpacady Memories from Matharpacady The Lopes brothers in performance Dr Ubaldo Mascarenhas with Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru The Melita Plectrum Orchestra. Dagmar Lopes (second from left, top row) is seen holding the saw-derived musical instrument
03 May,2025 08:34 AM IST | Mumbai | Devashish KambleFor all the organic, free-range, straight-from-the-farm, and other buzzwords that sell like hot cakes in this city, we wonder how many of us even know what they mean. Not many, says child educator Dhwani Vora. “We’re all confined by four walls — offices, homes, schools. Let alone children, even parents have forgotten what touching soil or planting a seed feels like,” she says. At a private farm in Yeoor tomorrow, Mumbaikars will get a refresher with their children. “Children these days have smartphone games that allow them to run a farm, you know?” Vora shares. The camp’s first activity should be a 180-degree pivot, if that’s true. The farm is home to nearly 10 cows who prepare for milking as the clock strikes 3 pm. Sure enough, the children will get a front row seat at the cowshed. “Since the cows are used to a routine, it would be unfair to let the children get hands-on, but watching it up close is just as fun,” Vora explains. A child waters a plant during a previous summer camp Some previous visitors have had mixed initial reactions to such an exercise, Vora admits. “Most Gen Alpha kids have never touched an animal that is not a house pet before. They’re a tad hesitant at first, but it doesn’t take long before they develop a bond with them,” she reveals. Stepping out from the shed, children will plant saplings in the farming area. Tomatoes, coriander and other herbs are in season, we learn. From ploughing the soil, to sowing seeds and watering them, the farm’s helpers will give children the full experience. Things can get messy, the organiser warns. ‘Bring an apron or a change of clothes’ the invitation mentions at the outset. But there’s a certain fear, the kind you only see in young parents’ eyes when their child gets its hands dirty, we remind the organiser. She knows it too well. “Yesterday, I received a call from a parent who inquired in all sincerity if the farm was air-conditioned, given the soaring temperatures outside. Another asked if the farm would have any animals that could be ‘dangerous’ for their child,” she laughs. Dhwani Vora One of the reasons the farm isn’t air conditioned, we’d like to believe, is the traditional wood fired brick and mud stove that sits in the open kitchen. Participants will get hands-on once again, this time to roll perfect bhakris or rotis. They have some familiar diners to impress. “The rotis will be taken back to the shed, where participants will hand-feed the cattle. The goal is to inculcate the value of giving back to nature and living as one,” Vora reveals. For the organiser who grew up trekking with her parents in the Western Ghats, Mumbai’s children are only her second target group. “Parents hardly find time to talk to their children these days. When you lay down on wild grass with your child and smell the moist soil around you, it grounds you and makes it easier to open up,” she shares, adding that it’s the perfect time to have a meaningful conversation with your child. Organic, free-range, and straight from the farm. ON May 3; 3 pm to 5.30 pmAT Yeoor Hills, Thane. (full address revealed on registration)CALL 9867325660 (to register)ENTRY Rs 2,000 (for one child and one accompanying adult)
02 May,2025 09:18 AM IST | Mumbai | Devashish KambleToday marks the 104th birth anniversary of the auteur Satyajit Ray. While most remember his classics like Charulata and the Apu trilogy, not many might be aware of his work outside cinema. Ray revived Sandesh, a Bengali children’s periodical, which was started by his grandfather Upendrakishore Ray. To this, he contributed short stories, essays, and poems. Fourteen of his stories have been compiled in Ghosts, Supernatural and Tales of the Uncanny (Puffin Books), a new translation from the Bengali to English by Gopa Majumdar and Indrani Majumdar. Ray’s stories comprise strange happenings that take place in isolated old cottages and dak bungalows in small towns and cities, especially around Calcutta (today’s Kolkata). An illustration of a lifelike doll from the story Fritz Eerie events separate daytime from nighttime. The protagonist wakes up one morning; all else in the world is unchanged, except them. Many of Ray’s narratives in this collection are written as stories within stories. A character narrates a tale to another or reveals the contents of a lost diary to readers. Almost always protagonists leave the city, and in that sense, are plucked out of their ordinary routines. Some stories such as Anath Babu’s Terror and Fritz have spectral visits — a possibility of a ghost-like presence during the night. While the sceptical reader questions whether what the protagonists saw really happened, Ray’s characters are always certain of themselves. Other stories such as Ratan Babu and that Man and Indigo, though different in nature, have a similar effect of terror on the readers because of the ominous atmosphere Ray successfully creates with his writing. In one, a stranger’s alikeness leads him to a sinister end; in the other, a character’s decision to stay in an old British cottage leads him to undergo a temporary but bizarre transformation. Satyajit Ray during the recording of Pather Panchali. PIC COURTESY/WIKIMEDIA COMMONS Ray doesn’t miss a chance to point at small details of the traces left by the British. Since the stories take place in bungalows, readers are made aware of the Victorian influence on certain classes. Often the furniture and china in the cottages belong to the colonial era. Once we’re introduced to a British character from 1868, another time we read the diary of a British gentleman, Mr Brown. In another case, a character boasts getting published by magazines in Britain to sound like an expert in all matters supernatural. Meanwhile, Ranjan Babu’s friends mock his fascination for the British in First-Class Compartment and decide to play a prank on him. Indigo has sharp references to the ruins of indigo plantations in Bengal and Bihar from the colonial period and the exploitation of the peasants at the time. It’s well known that Ray used art while creating his films. He sketched sequential comic-style scrapbooks that mirrored his narratives. It’s a wise decision then that many of Ray’s illustrations feature in this book too, helping accentuate the mood of the characters. For instance, In I Am a Ghost, the postmaster Laxman Tripathy’s expression is telling of his panic-stricken state as a shadow-like figure of Bheem Naskar’s ghost slips from the tree and catches him by his throat. Readers get a true taste of the creative genius of a master storyteller from a haunting and excellent collection. A keepsake for fans of Ray’s literary and creative imagination. Cost: Rs 299Available: Leading stores and e-stores
02 May,2025 09:14 AM IST | Mumbai | Nandini VarmaQuidditch chic It doesn’t matter which Quidditch team you support, you deserve a Quidditch t-shirt. The Souled Store has an exclusive collection of Harry Potter-themed outfits.AT The Souled Store, Kamal Building, 248, Linking Road, Bandra West (available across locations in Mumbai) Log on to: thesouledstore.comCost: Rs 499 onwards A goblet of coffee Waking up to coffee in a Gryffindor cup can be a great start for a magical day. Epic Stuff has a large collection of Harry Potter mugs.Log on to: epicstuff.com Cost: Rs 249 onwards Hogwarts’ dreams You can dream of going to Hogwarts on these Harry Potter-themed bed sheets by Silver Linen. Log on to: silverlinen.in Cost: Rs 1,699 onwards Swish and flick “Now It’s time to get you a wand,” says Hagrid in part one of the Harry Potter series. Unlike the wizarding world, here you get to choose your wand. Find the best wand on the Harry Potter Shop.Log on to: harrypottershop.co.ukCost: Rs 4,600 onwards A wand collection from Hogwarts’ four houses. Pic courtesy/thepeppystore.in Stationery superpowers Harry Potter code book. Pic Courtesy/thepeppystore.in The Peppy Store has a collection of Harry Potter-themed code diaries that will leave you spellbound with its design and details.Log on to: thepeppystore.inCost: Rs 1,899 A stationery gift hamper. Pic Courtesy/scribblesinc.in A Harry Potter-themed gift hamper with all the stationery is a perfect gift for Harry Potter fans. Scribbles Inc’s Potter-themed gift hamper has all your stationery needs, and a Patronus charm sprinkled on it.Log on to: scribblesinc.in Cost: Rs 2,000
02 May,2025 09:10 AM IST | Mumbai | Minal SanchetiMom’s magicAkash Deshpande, chef, Luv Restaurant One of my favourite Maharashtrian meals is made from aloo (or Aroo) leaves, particularly the stems. Growing up, my mom had this genius way of turning humble ingredients into something memorable. She would boil the aloo stems, coat them in Malvani masala, and shallow-fry them till crisp just like bombil fry. A plate of crisp fry and varan bhaat with a light kokum saarwas pure nostalgia. It reminds me how Maharashtrian food can be incredibly smart and deeply comforting at once. In the city though, I like going to Konkan Swad for their bombil fry thaali and sol kadhi which are absolute favourites. Konkan SwadAt Mahatma Gandhi Road, Motilal Nagar III, Goregaon West. Call 9867890933 Joys of comfort foodDhruv Ghanekar, music composer and producer I have always loved a simple plate of varan bhaat. It is the quintessential Maharashtrian meal that I can never get tired of, despite having it every day. Fluffy rice paired with simple, no-masala preparation of dal topped with dollops of homemade toop or ghee, and a slice of lime takes me back to my childhood days where I would look forward to having a steaming plate of varan bhaat cooked by my mother. It might seem like the simplest thing to make but needs attention and care. Whenever I have to indulge in a bit of snacking, I head out to Kaka vada pav, which is a small stall in Shivaji Park for a good bite. Kaka vada pavAt Behind Ravi caterers, Swatantryaveer Savarkar Road, Shivaji Park, Dadar West. Quick, happy meals Hemant Divate, poet, editor and publisher Bombil stuffed with prawn. Pic courtesy/Jai Hind I still remember the hectic-ness that preceded the making of the earlier issues of Abhidha Nantar, a literary journal back in the 1980s where we would do the DTP, editing, proof-reading, and printing at the Lokvangmaya press in Dadar. Since this was before the advent of high technology, we couldn’t pick up the phone every two minutes to check the time. The only thing that reminded us about the approaching lunchtime was the clock in our stomachs. When our stomachs roared, we fled to Hotel Jaihind in Parel to devour food, especially my favourite — bharlele bombil. Bombil or Bombay duck stuffed with small prawns cooked in a delicious masala, fried crisp to perfection used to be the highlight of my lunch. Meals shared with dear friends and loved ones consistently elevated the whole experience to a higher level. Jai Hind Lunch Home At Multiple outlets (Bandra East, Lower Parel, Prabhadevi)Call 8097454913 The pav-er of misalMandar Bhide, stand-up comedian Misal pav. Pic courtesy/Aaswad on Instagram It is hard for me to choose between misal pav and vada pav. Having travelled all over Maharashtra, I can say that the misal is different in each city, and everyone claims to have the best version of it. When I started my sales job in 2011, I was posted in Kolhapur for four weeks for a training programme and ate misal pav every day for lunch without ever getting bored. In Mumbai, I like heading out to Aaswad and Prakash in Dadar for vegetarian food and Sadichha in Bandra for crab dishes and kombdi vade. Aaswad Upahar and Mithai GruhAt Sanskruti Building Gadkari Chauk, 4, Lady Jamshedji Road, opposite Shiv Sena Bhavan, Dadar West. Call 9867890933 SadichhaAt Opposite MIG Cricket Club Road, Gandhi Nagar, Bandra East. Call 8291612018 Prakash Shakahari Upahaar KendraAt Horizon Building, Gokhale Road, Dadar West. Call 9867890933 Also check out A classic fareLocated in Kala Ghoda, this restaurant has been popular among sea food fans from the city as well as tourists. AT Trishna, Sai Baba Mandir Marg, next to Commerce House, Kala Ghoda, Fort.CALL 9206260260 Prawn koliwada. Pic courtesy/Trishna on Instagram Seafood bonanzaThis city-favourite haunt is famous for its delish coastal fare. From crispy bombil fry and spicy crab dishes, to stuffed pomfret and flavourful prawn curries, one only needs to have the appetite and the heart to indulge in classic Maharashtrian flavours.AT Gajalee, Multiple locations (Vile Parle, Andheri East)CALL 2226166470 (Vile Parle outlet) A traditional thaali. Pic courtesy/Gajalee on Instagram Simple yet boldWhether you are craving bharleli vangi or a plate of fiery Nagpur saoji chicken or Malvani cocktails, this Mahim landmark is a must-halt.AT Diva Maharashtracha, Mili Building, Takandas Kataria Marg, next to Goa Portuguesa Restobar, Shivaji Park.CALL 0224440707 A classic Maharashtrian spread. Pic courtesy/Diva Maharashtracha on Instagram Maharashtrian favouritesTrue to its name, this eatery’s menu is a delight for those who love their puran poli, kothimbir vadi, batata usal and other snacks served deliciously hot. AT Mi Marathi, Alpha Society, Parle Road, Navpada, Vile Parle East. CALL 9619557173 All in oneThis eatery whips up diverse flavours from Kolhapur, Alibaug, Konkan as well as Vidarbha.AT The Maratha Kitchen, Sonawala Road, opposite Corporate Annex, near Udyog Bhavan, Sonawala Industrial Estate, Goregaon. CALL 8850965616 Old favouriteLoved by many for its simple and affordable menu, this old outlet has stood the test of time to deliver the best of Maharashtrian snacks and dishes to Mumbaikars.AT Panshikar, multiple outlets (Dadar, Vile Parle, Girgaon, Ghatkopar)CALL 9833209882 (Ghatkopar)
01 May,2025 08:42 PM IST | Mumbai | Divyasha PandaDecoding your match-day look can be a tall order if you’re a true-blue fan of the game — you want your outfit to reflect your unwavering support for your team of choice, while also being comfortable enough to jump, wave, dance and holler all through the match. For fashion designer Asang Kamble, the choice is a simple one: “I would not compromise on comfort. Instead, I’d focus on creative ways to weave my love for cricket into my attire. The soaring summer sun makes it especially important to focus on the right fabrics and shapes that are flattering and breathable at the same time,” he explains. A fine balance (From left) Pair your team’s jersey with a simple skirt. Pic Courtesy/ TANVISHAH91 on Instagram (middle) Ditch your heels for comfortable shoes. Pic Courtesy/lahari_shari on Instagram (right) Oversized sunglasses are match-day essentials. Pic Courtesy/Kat_diaries on Instagram Wearing the team colours from head-to-toe is an extreme option that some fans might embrace; but for the rest of us, a more wearable option is to layer smartly. Start with a light base of shorts, a coord set, a skater skirt and baby tee, flowing floor-length skirts, skorts or knee-length jean shorts (jorts). Natural fibres such as cotton and linen are your safest bet in the searing heat. Asang Kamble However, if you tend to get very sweaty, choose moisture-wicking activewear. Now, layer your team colours over your base in clever ways — an overshirt, baseball cap, accessories like your earrings, a headscarf or bandana, or even coloured sneakers. “With statement handbags trending, you could even channel your support for the game with a cricket bat or ball-shaped handbag, or one that features a pop or abstract design in your team’s colours,” Kamble suggests. Accessorise with panache Choose cotton and linen layers in your team’s colours. Pic Courtesy/iammaya1008 on Instagram Oversized sunglasses are an integral part of your game day fit. Additionally, you could wear oversized bows in your hair, dress up your look with a fanny pack and interestingly coloured beaded jewellery. Keep your make-up minimal to avoid sweating it off. Neck jewellery is best avoided, as are impractical shoes such as very high heels. Remember to carry an extra layer (such as a light cardigan or varsity jacket) for day-to-evening matches, and extra sunscreen for reapplication. If you want your exuberance to shine through with a face tattoo, skin-safe face paint is a much more practical alternative to glitter, Kamble signs off.
01 May,2025 03:54 PM IST | Mumbai | Anindita PaulADVERTISEMENT
