ThursdayCreative beans Magic Beans is conducting a special programme for children where they will get a unique sensory experience that will help them in areas like problem-solving and creativity.TIME 4.45 pmAt Magic Beans, Sonal building, ground floor, shop no 2, Kemps Corner.LOG ON TO in. book-myshow.comCOST Rs 850 (one to two and a half years) FridayStories of struggles Pic Courtesy/Youtube Head over to Andheri for a limited screening of Maagh-The Winter Within, a film that speaks of the struggles of Kashmiris. The film by Aamir Bashir won a National Film Award in 2012. TIME 7 pm At Harkat Studio, Aram Nagar Part 2, Versova, Andheri West. LOG ON TO altshows.com Poetry and more Pic Courtesy/Hooted1ce Sign up for an adventure with Beyond the Lines, an open mic for singers, poets, and storytellers. The show will be hosted by Juveria Lokhandwala (above).TIME 8 pmAt Funkaar Studio, Laxmi Industrial Estate, Andheri West. LOG ON TO bookmyshow.comCOST Rs 229 SaturdayPerform for a cause Usha Uthup in performance during a previous show. File Pic Experience a performance by Usha Uthup as she sizzles the stage with her voice. The joy of this jazzy performance is only improved by the fact that the concert is for a cause and supports the Parents Association Thalassemic Unit Trust to raise funds for children battling thalassemia.TIME 7 pmAT Dublin Square, Phoenix Market City, Lal Bahadur Shastri Marg, Kurla West.LOG ON TO in. bookmyshow.comCOST Rs 799 All is well Pic Courtesy/@Namaste Yoga CLasses on Instagram Saturday is a good time to relax and rejuvenate yourself before the next week rushes in. Namaste Yoga Class is holding a session of aerial yoga with pilates rings and balls to help stretch your muscles and relieve the stress. The session will be conducted under the guidance of an expert. TIME 10 am to 11 am (batch one); 11:30 am to 12:30 pm (batch two)AT Jeevan Bharat, 302 A, 17th Road, near Khar Gymkhana, Khar West.Call 9930399993LOG ON TO in.bookmyshow.comCOST Rs 799 SundayMazgaon musings Pic Courtesy/WikiPedia Discover the history and heritage structures in Mazgaon during a walk, Meander Through Mazgaon, conducted by Anita Yewale, co-convenor, INTACH Mumbai. Time 8 am till 10 amMEETING POINT Rosary Church Dockyard, Mazgaon.CALL 8087773299COST Rs 200 (members); Rs 400 (non-members) Music and theatre Pic Courtesy/@groomingbabies Experience a dastangoi, Eidgah, adapted from Munshi Premchand’s famous short story. The event is organised by NCPA and Grooming Babies.TIME 4 pmAT Godrej Dance Theatre, NCPA, 196, NCPA Marg, Nariman Point.LOG ON TO ncpamumbai.comCOST Rs 500 Mother’s delight This Mother’s Day gift your mom a surprise with a Mediterranean meal from a menu that includes smoked pepper cheese mushroom, harissa paneer kebabs and more.TILL May 11; 7 pm to 1.30 am AT ilili, Rooftop, Ramee Guestline Hotel, Dadar East. COST Rs 1,500 (for two)
08 May,2025 01:10 PM IST | Mumbai | Minal SanchetiWhile some might say that it is the build-up to a joke that sets the humour for the audience, one can very well argue that it is in the spontaneity of a punch line, that one moment of revelation which brings out the laugh. This skill of cracking a joke on spot or improv comedy, as it is called, will be the deciding criteria for city-based collective, Negative School’s Improv Cage Brawl scheduled at a city venue this Friday. Artistes act out a slide show during an improv performance “This is the fifth edition of our improv brawls and the first one where we are pitting girls and boys against each other. Given how male-dominated the improv world is, the idea was also to promote female participation in this art form. We need to see more women having silly fun on stage to change the narrative,” Neeltarni Pratap, one half of the collective and a former student of iO West Improv Theatre and Training Centre in Los Angeles, explains. Taking one-word prompts from the audience, the participants will try to riff on the suggestions to build a comedic sketch. “It is another one of the ways to explore the nuances of comedy through improv. Before the battle, the artistes create an atmosphere of revelry by asking the audience who they think is going to win and then we get into it. This time we have performers from the school as well as people from around the city,” Krishan Hooda, co-founder, shares. Neeltarni Pratap and Krishan Hooda Inspired from the American improv show, Whose Line Is It Anyway? the brawl intends to provide a platform to young artistes to test their skills with a live audience and bring the community together. “Our workshops and performances aren’t just about comedy — they’re about creating safe, vibrant spaces where spontaneity, storytelling, and human connections can thrive. We are also conducting a momprov — an improv where mothers will get to battle it out in a fun session this Sunday,” Hooda reveals before signing off. ON May 9; 10:15 pmAT Veda Black Box, Bada Maidan Road, Aram Nagar Part 2, Versova. LOG ON TO in.bookmyshow.comCost Rs 293
08 May,2025 09:09 AM IST | Mumbai | Divyasha PandaSeaside view Featuring neat illustrations of city-based symbols like fish and tetrapod, this tote bag is as aesthetically pleasing as it is functional. Made from cotton canvas, this bag can easily accommodate everyday essentials.Log on to: dailyobjects.comCost: Rs 999 Get arty From the city’s vibrant walls to its art galleries, this tote bag features a collage of all those artistic elements that define this city’s vivacious spirit. Fashioned out of canvas fabric, this patterned tote bag also comes with a zipper to protect your belongings.Log on to: franklywearing.comCost: Rs 799 On the bus If you swear by the city’s incredible public transport system, then this bag might be perfect choice for you. With a red and white colour palette, it instantly reminds one of the iconic BEST buses. Made from twill cotton, this tote bag comes with an inside pocket to support all your travel needs.Log on to: motherlandsuperstore.comCost: Rs 849
08 May,2025 09:05 AM IST | Mumbai | The Guide TeamYoung Rabi in Bombay Sabyasachi Mukherjee, director general of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya (CSMVS), shares that the poet’s elder brother, Satyendranath, coaxed young Rabindranath Tagore to come to Bombay in 1878. “The goal was to prepare him for a journey to England for higher education,” Mukherjee explains. Sabyasachi Mukherjee During this time, young Rabi stayed with Dr Atmaram Pandurang Turkhud at 65, Kandewadi in Girgaon. Quoting from Pratapaditya Pal’s commemorative work on the poet, Something Old, Something New, Mukherjee adds that Rabi developed a special bond with Dr Turkhud’s daughter, Annapurna, fondly known as Ana. This friendship and interlude in Bombay would lay the foundation to Tagore’s early romantic poetry and literary greatness. The connection does not end there. CSMVS also houses a rare Baluchar saree that belonged to Jnanadanandini Devi, the wife of Satyendranath Tagore. Though it is traditional in its weave, the design around the pallu features a contemporary scene of a steam engine train with European passengers wearing typical hats and costumes. Eclectic cuisine Madhumita Pyne Chef and culinary revivalist Madhumita Pyne has been serving Thakurbari cuisine across the city. As a family, the ‘Thakurs’ (anglicised to ‘Tagore by the British) were travellers and gastronomes who would source recipes from Europe, Asia and from across India. Tagore also began the monthly tradition of a Khamkheyali Sabha at Jorasanko Thakur Bari, the ancestral home of the Tagore family. “This was a whimsical gathering of writers, poets, and artistes over an evening of performances. The mandate for the food was that it has to be just as whimsical. One of the popular ones is a payesh prepared from onions,” she reveals. The artistic genius Anusree Bonnerjee in a performance of Chitrangada in 2009 The multi-faceted genius of Tagore is most evident in his literary and musical work. For Anusree Bonnerjee, city-based danseuse and honorary creative director of Shahana, Rabindra Sangeet was an introduction to the intricacies of Bengali culture and language. “In fact, the interpretation of these songs through movement in his dance dramas led to a new form, Rabindra Nritya,” the danseuse reveals. This evolution emphasised lyrical movement to underline self-expression. She explains, “Tagore brought in Manipuri as the base form. Each character uses a different classical dance form influence to overlay. As a process, it became an amalgamation of forms, while developing into a distinct style.” A friend to the Mahatma Sandhya Mehta and A handwritten letter by Mahatma Gandhi to Rabindranath Tagore on his return from England. Pics Courtesy/Mani Bhavan Sangrahalaya Though he was older than Mahatma Gandhi — who would address him as Gurudev or the poet — Tagore shared a close bond with him. “He travelled to Bombay in 1920 when he met with Gandhiji at Mani Bhavan,” shares Sandhya Mehta, researcher at the Mani Bhavan Sangrahalaya and co-author of Gandhi in Bombay. “Gandhiji even wrote in a letter to Devdas Gandhi quoting, ‘I saw a good deal of the poet in Bombay.’ Remember, this was also the time they were propagating the idea of Swadesi,” she adds. Those intrigued can always drop in for a peek at the letter that is displayed at the Sangrahalaya till date. Mangsher safed korma Ingredients >> 1 kg mutton>> 1 ltr milk>> 4 large onions>> 1 head garlic>> 2 tsp ginger paste>> 10-12 green chillies>> 500 gm curd>> 1 inch cinnamon>> 4 cloves>> 2 cardamom>> 3 tbsp ghee>> Salt to taste Method Marinate the meat with curd, ginger paste and salt overnight or at least for a couple of hours. Finely chop the onions. Make a paste with the garlic. Heat the ghee and add cinnamon, clove and cardamom. Once they start sputtering, add the garlic paste and cook for a minute. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent. Do not let the onions brown. Add the marinated mutton and cook till water separates. Add the slit green chillies. Cover and cook till the meat is fully cooked. In the meantime, boil and reduce the milk till it reduces to half. Once the mutton is cooked, take it off the heat, add the reduced milk and mix well. Serve with pulao or parathas. Recipe courtesy: Madhumita Pyne Events to catch Pic Courtesy/Wikimedia Commons Catch Rabindra Sangeet in its traditional formOn May 11; 6.30 pm onwardsAt Ground next to BG House, Hiranandani Gardens, Powai.Log on to @Powaibengaliwelfareassociation A performance of Dui Bigha JomiOn May 11, 7.30 pm onwardsAt NMBA premises, Plot 25, Sector A, Vashi.Log on to @nmba.vashi for details Essential Tagore >> Gitanjali>> Ghaire Baire /The Home and The World>> Kabuliwala>> The Postmaster>> Fireflies>> Gora>> Sonar Tari/ The Golden Boat>> Baaghbaan/The Gardener Available Leading bookstore and e-stores
08 May,2025 09:02 AM IST | Mumbai | Shriram IyengarReaders of a generation will recall the sound of the foot paddle in the Singer sewing machine. Once a mainstay of every home in India, it is now a piece of nostalgia. But the stitches they made could tell stories by themselves. Gurjeet Singh is more than familiar with these stories, and their deeper contexts. His latest exhibition, Dreamers, is a collaboration with artisans and weavers from Jaipur Rugs to create shapes, forms and textures that speak of such personal journeys. Growing up in the village of Algon Kothi, 50 kms from Amritsar, Singh would observe his mother and four elder sisters always taking up stitching and embroidering projects. As an artist, his search for new forms saw him turn back home. “I found this process enjoyable, creative and open to the possibilities of telling stories,” he reveals. I want to go home, 2025, Gurjeet Singh The journey to Dreamers though began in 2023 when Jaipur Rugs reached out to the artist for a residency programme. “I found the story of the foundation, and their work resonating with my own. I recognised the struggles of those artisans from an underprivileged background, and wanted to discuss it,” he shares. The artwork, The Portraits of Boogli and her Mother. Pics Courtesy/Chemould Prescott Road Gallery The 31-year-old spent over a month travelling across Jaipur, meeting the artisans and collecting stories. “The skills on the loom might be passed down through tradition, and perhaps even fading, but each one adds a certain individuality to the works they create,” Singh points out. The visits were not limited to villages like Aspura, Narhet, Kushal Singh Ki Dhani, Aager, Sadwa and Amer — built around these communities. “I was also allowed to visit the Jaipur Central Jail, where the inmates work on rugs and looms,” he adds. These shapes, stories and expressions found their way into the seven artworks that will be on display in the city. Bahu Mukhiya In the backdrop of these experiences, the title of Dreamers immediately finds context. It also opens up the artist’s approach to material. Singh shares, “I had to find a material that would define my language of expression. We opted for sari silk that was used again as weave in carpets. I also wanted to make the works more interactive in terms of texture. I wanted to play with that form, while giving the artisans their own freedom.” A view of the works, Black Sun, 2025 Freedom is a key part of these expressive works. Singh recalls the story of Boogli, a young weaver and collaborator, and says, “When I visited her house, I thought only she worked the loom. I soon realised that her mother also weaved, whilst remaining in the shadows. For instance, when I asked [the mother], if she travelled in a plane for an award, and she demurely looked around and answered ‘Who will let me go?’ That one sentence speaks of a lot many things. And her weave becomes a metaphor for her own unsaid dreams.” ON May 8, 6 pm onwards (preview); May 9 to June 7AT Chemould Prescott Road Gallery, Queens Mansion, Colaba.
07 May,2025 09:37 AM IST | Mumbai | Shriram IyengarPardon our French, but not speaking a second, third, or fourth language in 2025 is just so passé. Whether you want to indulge in your favourite foreign language shows, dive head first into a new culture, or simply show off among friends, now’s the perfect time to begin the journey of learning a new language. Here’s where you can get started in the city. Bonjour! Students at a French class. Pic courtesy/Afmumbai Alliance Française Bombay’s multi-level French courses categorised into weekend, regular and fastrack, means you can learn at your own pace. The centre conducts two-hour-long classes five days a week, online and offline.AT Ground floor, Churchgate Chambers, Churchgate; HiLife Mall third floor, Pherozeshah Mehta Road, Santacruz (West). Log on to: bombay.afindia.orgCall: 8928492437 (Churchgate) Guten tag! Learn German online through Zoom or opt for intensive, super-intensive or evening batches on-site at Goethe-Institut Mumbai’s upcoming summer classes. An online placement trial lets you gauge your proficiency and find the ideal level.AT Chhatrapati Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya, Fort; Bhagwati Vidyalaya, Naupada, Thane West.Log on to: goethe.de/ins/in/en/sta/mumCall: 9167403569 Hola! Get fluent in Spanish the fun way at Academia De Espanol’s classrooms across Mumbai. This academy hosts weekly screenings, cultural workshops and webinars with native speakers. Time-strapped or indecisive learners can opt for the virtual one-on-one lessons available all days of the week.AT Academies across Borivli, Kandivli, Andheri, Chembur, Thane and Navi Mumbai.Log on to: academiaespanol.comCall: 9372250533 Ni hao! India China Academy’s beginner course keeps things simple with an easy introduction to Mandarin through the Pinyin script and basic pronunciation. Sprinkled with cultural workshops like crafting Chinese lamps and Call: igraphy sessions, the beginners’ course promises to get you fluent in basic Mandarin.AT Lumos, Mogra Pada, Natwar Nagar, Jogeshwari East.Log on to: indiachinaacademy.comCall: 9819849485 Konnichiwa! Students at a Chinese calligraphy session. pic courtesy/INDIA CHINA ACADEMY ON INSTAGRAM The Fujiwara Language Institute offers six-month-long Japanese courses at each level beginning from absolute amateurs, available both online and offline. If you get the hang of the language, you might want to join an educational trip to Tokyo with the group this September.AT Bhavani Shankar Road, Dadar West; Shah Baug, Pedder Road Log on to: fujiwarajapaneseconsultants.com Call: 2223514728 Annyeonghaseyo! Brush up the basics of Korean with the Cambridge Institute’s two-month course. You’ll master greetings, self-introductions, and the Hangul script while learning from native speakers for a truly immersive experience. It’s perfect for anyone swept up in the K-wave.AT Andheri West, Kandivali West and Ghatkopar West. Log on to: cambridgeinstitute.co.in Call: 9322820652 Marhaban! Learners at an origami class. Pic courtesy/FUJIWARA LANGUAGE INSTITUTE ON INSTAGRAM Set aside one day every week to learn Arabic with Mumbai University’s part-time course starting next month. Conducted by the Arabic Language Department established in 1993, the three-hour online/offline classes offer a flexible way to get started.From June 14 onwardsAT Zoom; New Lecture Complex, Mumbai University, Kalina. Log on to: parttimecourses.mu.ac.in Go regional Tamil Sangam: Join The Navi Mumbai Tamil Sangam’s free afternoon classes to learn Tamil from senior members of the community. ON Sundays; 12 pm to 2 pmAT Sector 9, Vashi, Navi Mumbai. Kolis Study Point: Learn the intricacies of Bengali with linguistics instructor Kalyani Bhattacharya’s slow-paced tutorials in English and Hindi. AVAILABLE YouTube eLearn Punjabi: Learning Punjabi is easier when lessons are broken down into 10-minute snippets. From learning the Gurmukhi script to basic conversations, the online repository is free to access. Log on to: elearnpunjabi.com Bhasha Sangam: This child-friendly app opens the doors to learning regional languages like Tamil, Assamese, Kannada and Punjabi at home. AVAILABLE Play Store and App Store
07 May,2025 09:33 AM IST | Mumbai | Devashish KambleVaibhav Sooryavanshi isn’t just the youngest player to score a century in Indian Premier League history; he’s also scored the second-fastest century in this T20 league cricket tournament. And he’s all of 14 years of age. But the Rajasthan Royals (RR) opening batter, Sooryavanshi isn’t the first player that the game has lapped up and tossed into the spotlight of fame, fortune and adulation. To quote a recent example, Prithvi Shaw, touted by many to be cricket’s boy wonder, found no takers in the 2024 season; instead the only headlines he made were for his lack of focus and indiscipline. Is it any surprise then that RR coach Rahul Dravid’s immediate response to Sooryavanshi’s success was to create a safety net that can help steer the young player away from distractions and help him achieve his full potential? Parents must take care to praise the children’s efforts, curiosity and persistence, over their successes. Representation pics/istock “In a world that applauds early success, the spotlight often shines the brightest on children whose talents surpass their years. While the applause may be loud, it often drowns out the quiet emotional needs of these young achievers. As a coach, I see this not only in my clients, but also in the way I raise my own daughter. And I firmly believe that brilliance must be balanced with grounding. Otherwise, early achievement can quietly distort a child’s sense of identity, self-worth, and social belonging. The real work lies in helping them define who they are —not just what they can do,” explains emotional intelligence coach, Dr Taylor Elizabeth. She points out that many children struggle with challenges such as equating being loved or accepted with their achievements, isolation with regards to their peers, as well as an often-paralysing fear of failing, disappointing, or falling short. Creating the new normal Taylor Elizabeth Dr Nahid Dave, a psychiatrist at Thought Matters, says that most parents and caregivers of young achievers struggle with moderation: “The balance between appreciation and constructive criticism is important — you cannot be appreciative all the time, nor can you rationalise constant criticism and the mistaken belief that you are pushing your child to do better. The latter can be especially counterproductive as the child begins to strive constantly for validation and appreciation from his/her parents,” she explains. Additionally, she and Dr Elizabeth lay down the following guidelines for parents and caregivers: 1 Curtail social media: While a strong presence and following on social media can have monetary gains for such children, it is important for the account to be managed by the child’s parents or an external adult. “Children’s minds are very vulnerable to external influences, and they may not be able to understand the veneration and brutal brickbats that come with their public persona,” Dr Dave says. Children can be vulnerable, especially on social media, and need to be guided by parents 2 Effort over outcome: Praise your child’s persistence, curiosity, or emotional courage, not just the win, advises Elizabeth. At the same time, remind them regularly that their value does not lie in applause. Say things like, ‘I love who you are — not what you do.’ This separates the person from the performance. 3 Emotional role-modelling: “If you’re overwhelmed, name it. If you’re proud, express it without inflating it. Children absorb not just our advice, but also our tone, presence, and behaviour,” Dr Elizabeth explains. She also asks that parents allow children to feel their full range of emotions: “Don’t rush to fix their loneliness, jealousy or sadness. Allow them to name it. Understanding emotion is a lifelong advantage.” Dr Nahid Dave 4 A level playing field: If a child is excelling at a sport or another activity that used to be an interest and is now a career option, they must also be given the opportunity to break the monotony with another hobby that is just that — a hobby. “A non-gadget activity helps children to connect with their peers and find common ground. It also normalises the child to his/her peers to an extent and helps them to form meaningful friendships, without comparisons or competition,” Dr Dave adds. Shashank Goenka Shashank Goenka, founder and managing director of Finland International School, Mahalaxmi, observes that schools too have a part to play in creating a supportive ecosystem for early achievers. “Regular mentorship and a cohesive approach in tandem with parents can help children to feel understood and accepted. Student counsellors and coaches can ease the strain of ‘fitting in’ to quite an extent by helping children to better shoulder the burden of expectations without becoming overwhelmed,” he advises. Mind over matter David Reid In his new illustrated book The Seven Secrets (HarperCollins), mental performance coach David Reid describes the strategies that cricket maestro MS Dhoni uses to stay calm on and off the field. Reid, who is now associated with the Chennai Super Kings team, says that these tools can also help children to better manage the stresses that are thrown their way by both life and sports. Sharing the importance of being present in the moment, Reid emphasises meditation as a powerful tool to achieve mindfulness and calm. Another method outlined in the book is to use slow, intentional breathing to ease performance anxiety before undertaking a difficult task, such as playing an important match. The book is available as a free resource for children and their parents on the website sevensecrets.in
07 May,2025 09:28 AM IST | Mumbai | Anindita PaulBookshelves Mid-century tree-shaped bookshelf This book shelf is in a tree shape with branches. This quirky furniture is ideal for a children’s study room.Cost: Rs 64,649Log on to: etsy.com Ladwing natural bookcase Pic courtesy/thehomedekor.in Add a little jazz to the way you keep your books with this unique ladder-shaped bookshelf that is compact and with its out-of-the-box design, fits perfectly into a study room.Cost: Rs 14,000Log on to: thehomedekor.in Boat-shaped wooden bookshelf Pic courtesy/furnweave.com Sail through your reading experience with this boat-shaped bookshelf.Cost: Rs 17,231Log on to: furnweave.com Solis metal floating wall shelves Pic courtesy/modernquests. If you are looking for minimalist furniture yet something different for your books, this circular metal bookshelf is a must-consider. With its simple design and classic look, it stands out. Cost: Rs 17,999Log on to: modernquests.com Bookends Dachshund bookend Pic courtesy/morataara.com This bookend is made out of a wooden dachshund sculpture that gives an impression of hunger as the book space is kept at the tummy. It symbolises a hunger for knowledge.Cost: Rs 4,700Log on to: morataara.com Hard work matters bookend Pic courtesy/vaaree.com The theme of this golden colour bookend is hard work matters. The sculpture is perfect for a plain white wall. Cost: Rs 3,999Log on to: vaaree.com Shell-shaped marble bookend Pic courtesy/modernquests.com This bookend is a shell-shaped marble piece. The classic decor is a fit for any living room or study area.Cost: Rs 2,399Log on to: modernquests.com Bookshelf décor Indoor plants Pic courtesy/plantorbit.com Plants bring happiness in a dull life. English ivy is an apt indoor plant to decorate your bookshelf. It’s also evergreen in nature. Cost: Rs 109Log on to: plantorbit.com Cutesy props Pic courtesy/houseofekam.com Use paper mâché animals to add colour to your boring bookshelf. They are not just attractive but also sustainable. Cost: Rs 1,500 onwardsLog on to: houseofekam.com
06 May,2025 09:03 AM IST | Mumbai | Minal SanchetiSome names are just a natural fit in the context of literature. For years, this writer would find the name of Gieve Patel alongside his peers like Arun Kolatkar, Eunice De Souza, Dom Moraes or Nissim Ezekiel in the course literature of Indian English studies. It turns out, so did Avaan Patel. The daughter of Gieve Patel, and a theatre maker herself, recalls with humour, “I would often have students in school tell me about dad’s poems that were part of the ICSE syllabus. I would often think, ‘I hope I don’t have to study it.’ I love the poems, but at that age, one doesn’t always want to study your parents’ work.” Time changes everything, they say. Tomorrow, the director will join some members of the original cast of the plays, Princes and Savaksa, in a dramatic reading at the Jehangir Nicholson Art Foundation Gallery in Fort. (From left) Etchings of Nosherwan and Meher Jehangir by Gieve Patel The plays will be read in the same space that hosts Patel’s exhibition, A Show of Hands: In Memoriam: Gieve Patel. “I grew up with all of these worlds around me. I was 10 years old when we started rehearsal on Savaksa. I would help the cast learn the lines,” the actor-director tells us. The reading will include Princes and Savaksa. The first play earned him the Sultan Padamsee award. Gieve Patel (left) and Sabira Merchant in Mary Stuart, directed by Gieve’s wife, Toni Patel The choice of being a theatremaker was a natural progression, then. She admits, saying, “For me, the sound and rhythm of the language was very important. It was something I learnt being surrounded by poets, actors and directors, including my mother [Toni Patel].” The language is also what Meher and Nosherwan Jehangir found striking in the works by Gieve. “It was deliberately crafted to suit the purpose of the plays,” shares Nosherwan. He should know. Aside from being actors, Nosherwan and Meher taught language, speech and drama for over four decades at the Jehangir School of Speech and Drama at Nana Chowk. Meher adds, “Over the years, we often worked on excerpts of Savaksa and Mr Behram [directed by Toni] with our senior students for Trinity [Guildhall London]. The examiners from London were very intrigued.” Meher and Nosherwan Jehangir in the play, Mister Behram In 1982, the duo was still in their late 20s and starting out. “We first played it 43 years ago at Max Mueller Bhavan, under Pearl’s [Padamsee] direction,” Meher recalls. Prod them on the memories, and they share that Gieve was often balancing work as a practising doctor, artist and playwright simultaneously. Nosherwan Jehangir and Roger Pereira in a moment from Savaksa Daughter Avaan adds, “I was in my 10th standard when he was working on Mister Behram. He would write at 3 am in the morning. The rest of the day would be taken up by the clinic and his painting. He would do all of this within the course of the day with no sense of outward stress.” Nosherwan and Meher Jehangir Each of his facets informed the other art, they say. Nosherwan points to the motif of eczema present in Savaksa. A couple of etchings of Meher and Nosherwan by Gieve, during the rehearsals give further proof of this observant nature. “This happened all the time. Sometimes he would be gazing in the distance at someone. ‘I am studying a face. I might use it in a painting,’ he’d say,” she recalls. Avaan Patel This moment of pause and recollection might return as the cast comes together. They will be joined by names such as Persis Mistry, Conan Pereira among others. “I suppose us and Roger Pereira are among the few members from the original cast left. It was a wonderful time in the city,” Meher recalls with a nostalgia that visitors might have a chance to experience once again. ON May 7; 6 pmAT JNAF Gallery, Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya, Fort.
06 May,2025 09:01 AM IST | Mumbai | Shriram IyengarFrom ketogenic and low-carbohydrate diets to intermittent fasting and detox recipes, the variety of dietary routines and fads that have flooded our feeds and shelves in the past decade has been huge. While these regimes might work for a good chunk of people, the widespread popularity and misinformation surrounding these dietary plans can often push you to the wrong path. Moreover, the idea of a healthy lifestyle isn’t strictly related to diets either. It can be as simple as knowing what works best for your body. (From left) Nicole Linhares Kedia and Karishmma Chawla “When it comes to adopting a healthy lifestyle, there are different categories of people with different eating patterns. We call this the concept of bio-individuality, where one person’s food can be another person’s poison. This simply means that while nutritional requirements vary from person to person, you need to know what aligns with your body and gut and you can make magic out of what you eat,” Karishmma Chawla, functional medicine nutritionist and lifestyle educator explains. In a city as professionally-driven as Mumbai, we have identified four sets of people from its working population, the repercussions of the lifestyle they are bound to follow and what they can do to lead a healthy life without having to stick to diets. Different routines, correct eating 1. Corporate professionalsConcerns: Working in high stress, time-bound work environments Start your day with healthy alternatives like overnight oats Corporate professionals might have to deal with stress and tight deadlines all the time, but healthy, thoughtful choices can be beneficial both mentally and physically. Chawla suggests, “Start the day with a protein-rich smoothie or a quick meal like eggs on toast or overnight oats. Cooking in bulk over the weekend can help you avoid last-minute unhealthy choices.” Keep yourself hydrated Nicole Linhares Kedia, sports nutritionist and integrated health coach shares, “Corporate professionals tend to indulge in excessive caffeine intake throughout the day which can elevate cortisol levels. This can contribute to chronic inflammation over time. Staying hydrated and limiting sugar, alcohol and heavily processed foods can make a big difference. It is also important to be mindful of your meal time. Eating heavy meals close to bedtime can interfere with digestion, blood sugar levels and sleep. Finish your last meal three to four hours before going to bed to allow your body time to properly digest.” 2. Shift-bound professionsConcerns: Late night hours, irregular eating and sleep patterns For a city that never sleeps, it is necessary for lifestyle choices to also mould themselves to the late work hours. Kedia lays out the environmental triggers that can also affect your digestion. “Prolonged exposure to pollution or excessive Ultraviolet (UV) radiation can activate inflammatory pathways in the body. Minimising exposure and using protective measures when possible can help keep these in check.” Quinoa khichdi Chawla observes, “Late-night workers often face irregular meals and rely on sugary, processed snacks that can disrupt gut health. These foods feed on harmful gut bacteria, leading to poor digestion, and low immunity. Instead, choose slow-digesting foods like oats, millets, or quinoa with protein like eggs or paneer. Swap chips and biscuits for roasted nuts, seeds, or boiled eggs. Consume lemon water, buttermilk, or herbal teas. Eating small, balanced meals throughout the shift keeps your gut steady even during odd hours.” 3. College studentsConcerns: Juggling academic pressure, proximity to junk food Avoid processed, carb-high dishes Given the cheap and easy availability of fast food joints near educational institutions, students are prone to indulging in quickly made, high-processed food which can result in inflammation. A simple meal of dal rice is nutritious and easy to make “Fresh fruits, leafy greens, tomatoes, and whole grains are inflammation-fighting powerhouses. Rich in polyphenols and antioxidants like lycopene and beta-carotene, these foods help the body combat oxidative stress. For those evening cravings, you can pack nuts and seeds like flax seeds and walnuts for a nourishing and filling snack,” Kedia reveals while Chawla adds, “You don’t need fancy ingredients to eat well. A one-bowl meal of rice, dal, vegetables, and curd is balanced, affordable, and easy to make.” 4. Sedentary workforceConcerns: Zero-activity lifestyles, round-the-clock jobs Add sprouts in your meals A good portion of the city’s working population is stuck in front of desktops leaving very limited time for body movement, which also impacts your digestive system as the experts tell us. “Long hours of sitting and irregular eating patterns can disrupt gut function, slowing digestion and encouraging gas, bloating, and fatigue. Constant snacking on tea, sugary drinks, or processed foods feeds harmful gut bacteria and throws off your digestive rhythm. To support gut health, opt for simple high-protein meals like sprouts, boiled eggs, paneer, or vegetable sandwiches made with whole grains. These provide fibre and nutrients that promote good bacteria. Swapping white rice or bread for brown rice or multigrain options improves digestion. Even short walks between long sitting hours can stimulate gut motility, and cutting down sugar in your tea or switching to herbal options can reduce gut inflammation and acidity,” Chawla summarises. Smart way to eat Engage in physical activity Dos>> Opt for seasonal ingredients like carrots, tomatoes, lychees and iced apples>> Take the effort to do a brisk walk or some kind of bodily movement>> If you are someone who orders in, choose grilled or sautéed dishes over heavy, greasy ones Don’ts>> Don’t go to bed immediately after meals>> Limit heavily processed foods like sauces, MSG, or flavour enhancers>> Try not to eat too quickly or while you are stressed as that can disrupt gut function Information courtesy: Karishmma Chawla and Nicole Linhares Kedia
06 May,2025 08:57 AM IST | Mumbai | Divyasha PandaThe 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 SanchetiADVERTISEMENT
