It is a widely accepted fact that dance is the universal language of expression, one that builds itself on humanity’s shared vocabulary for movement to convey the deepest emotions. Drawing from a similar strain of thought is Sacred Rhythms, a performance hosting dancers from South Korea and Japan, as part of the first edition of the Asia Dance Festival (ADF) in the country, for a vibrant session showcasing traditional dance forms. Scheduled to take place in Mumbai and then Bengaluru, the session will also feature a Bharatanatyam performance by the disciples of Dr Sandhya Purecha and Bharata College of Fine Arts & Culture and an Odissi performance by the disciples of Dr Sarmishtha Chattopadhyay and Angika Dance Academy. Lee Jong Ho performs Salp’uri “This event is part of a cultural exchange programme between both countries. Indian audiences know a lot about K-pop, Korean food and even Korean skin care regimes, but there is very little knowledge about traditional Korean dance forms, which are a rich cultural entity in themselves. The idea behind this collaboration is to expose Indian audiences to traditional Korean culture,” Aditi Bhagwat, the co-ordinator and organiser of the event, tells us. While the Korean dance sets will take patrons on a ride through the folk culture of South Korea, the Japanese performances will bring a contemporary twist to the whole session with performances revolving around present-day issues with reflections on the COVID-19 pandemic and the impermanence of memory. A moment from the Japanese dance set 4999 by Yui Enomoto Exhibiting traditional Korean dance forms like Taepyeongmu, Salp’uri and Seungmu among others, the festival will also retrace the spiritual connection between the two nations. “India is the birthplace of The Buddha; it’s the land where Buddhism originated, so I feel we already share a deep relation with each other,” Yi Chul-jin, a fourth-generation practitioner of Seungmu, and the art director and manager of ADF shares with us. A performance of the traditional dance form Jinju Gyobang Gutgeori Chum Originating in the folk culture of South Korea, Seungmu or the Monk’s Dance requires delicate movements and rhythms which take account of the dancer’s flowy costume for the full effect while Salp’uri involves a fluid choreography rooted in the idea of spiritual mysticism, accompanied by a melancholic melody. What is it about India that brings them to the country for these performances, we ask? “India and South Korea have a great bonding, something which has only grown more in the past few years. As artistes, it is an honour for us to be able to showcase our traditional dance forms in India and facilitate a meaningful exchange,” Chul-jin tells us before signing off. The performance will be followed by a workshop the next day where dance enthusiasts can interact with artistes to know more about the dance forms. Aditi Bhagwat On January 5; 11 am onwardsAt NCPA, NCPA Marg, Nariman Point Log on to in.bookmyshow.comEntry Free (first come-first served basis)
04 January,2025 08:49 AM IST | Mumbai | Divyasha PandaIn 1979, Kalpavriksh was established as a result of a student-led campaign for the protection of Delhi’s Ridge Forest. Since then, the Pune-based non-profit organisation has worked consistently towards environmental research, advocacy, education, on-ground support to communities, and national and international environmental policy. More recently, the team began publishing books for kids between the ages of six and 14 years on nature, environment, and wildlife conservation. The early titles came out of locale-specific education programmes conducted by the organisation. “We interact with communities in remote regions like Ladakh and Kutch to bring out material that is relevant to their surroundings, their wildlife and ecosystems,” shares Tanya Majmudar, who oversees the publications. Since around 2015, their publishing efforts have been more focused. An illustration from Ila, My Wild Mongoose Friend. Illustration courtesy Ambika Karandikar “We have a large network of people we know who work on the ground, including environmental researchers and community members. We work with them to bring out stories of conservation efforts and real environmental issues for the larger audience. We also put out a call for manuscripts, so even established children’s authors send us manuscripts for books.” Here are three exciting new titles from the environment-conscious indie publisher to check out: My Nest is the BestNiyatee Sharma introduces children to the vast universe of birds by narrating how different birds build their nests. Readers will learn about tailorbirds, kites, kingfishers, lapwings, and the great hornbill, among others. Many of this birds in the book can be spotted in Mumbai, such as the Greater Flamingo and the Sarus Crane. Alongside the poems are pieces of further information about nest-building processes that parents can share with their children. It’s a good format for those indulging in assisted reading. The illustrations by Sushama Durve help the reader identify the birds through their features. A panel from What Am I Good At? illustration courtesy/Sunaina Coelho What Am I Good At?A baby eagle wonders what it will be good at once it grows up. It looks at the world around, watches its parents carry food to the nest, and encounters other animals like an elephant, a sloth bear, an otter, a barking deer, etc., who share what they do best. Rahul Pradhan’s words, accompanied by Sunaina Coelho’s delightful illustrations, meditate on the anxiety of the young animals in their early stages through rhymes. It is a joyful read for young readers. Tanya Majmudar Ila, My Wild Mongoose FriendWritten by Abhisheka Krishnagopal, with stunning illustrations by Ambika Karandikar, the book traces the journey of an Indian grey mongoose named Ila — from being rescued to being cared for and readied for life in her natural habitat. Through the narrator, a young college student, we sneak a peek into the working of a rehabilitation centre for small animals. Young readers who love animals, have rescued, or are caretakers, will find the book particularly heartwarming in its ability to explore the relationship between the volunteer-caregiver and the rescued mongoose. Available: kalpavriksh.org
04 January,2025 08:40 AM IST | Mumbai | Nandini VarmaMumbai is a city where music is often the background to your daily commute, but it is also a city where names like Ustad Zakir Hussain, Ustad Alla Rakha Khan, Pandit Shivkumar Sharma, and going back further to Pandit Deenanath Mangeshkar, Ustad Karim Khan and others revelled in. Down the road from the famed Bhendi Bazaar, whose current status belies its reputation of the Bhendi Bazaar gharana, stands the Haribhau Vishwanath Musical Industries. This weekend, they begin the celebrations for the centenary year with a music concert at a Matunga venue by Rahul Sharma, Ojas Adhiya, Ashok Patki and Kaushal Inamdar among others in performance. A collection of sitars, santoors and tanpuras at the store The beginnings of a legacy “The journey began with Vishwanath Diwane, who was a harmonium player with the legendary Bal Gandharva’s theatre troupe,” recalls 76-year-old Dilip Diwane, founder Haribhau’s nephew. Vishwanath’s young son, Haribhau, would often accompany his father along on the journeys. Having acquired an early ear for music, Haribhau would assist as well as play alongside his father. Musician Hariharan with Uday Diwane during a visit to the Dadar store “But often, he would spend time working on the instrument. In those days, the harmonium was a new instrument and imported from Germany or France,” shares Dilip, adding, “He learned to mould it to the requirements of Indian vocals and music. Sometime around 1925, he set up shop in Dadar’s Kumbharwada locality, and later, in Girgaon’s music market.” Dilip’s nephew, Ashish, says, “Right across our store was RS Mayekar’s who designed only string instruments. There was another tabla maker down the road. We used to specialise only in harmoniums, before we diversified.” A collection of violins at the Girgaon store Like all members of the family, Ashish assisted his grandfather in the workshop, and recalls him as an innovator. “Back then, these instruments were traditionally made by hand, and took weeks. He decided to use machines such as circular saws, drill machines that shortened time. He also came up with the idea of working in lots of eight or nine harmoniums at a time as a production line,” he shares. A family tradition When the manufacturing workshop moved for a short time to Ahilya Nagar, music became more than a profession. “Sulochana Chavan, Shahu Modak and every other musical theatre troupe would stop by. Every fortnight, Haribhau would host a mehfil and also join the musicians in performances,” recalls Dilip. A dated photograph of founder Haribhau Vishwanath (right) felicitating the theatre icon Bal Gandharva This passion was passed down to every member of the family. “I learned the harmonium, and played tabla for 20 years. My son also learned music,” shares Ashish. The 56-year-old is not alone. Dilip Diwane started with the harmonium, and later learned the Hawaiian and electric guitars. “It is very important for us to have an ear for music. You cannot craft an instrument without knowing the changes in its sound,” the septuagenarian points out. Mechanism of music This knowledge also contributes to the science of craftsmanship. Ashish expands, “Music might be an art, but needs material science. For instance, harmoniums used to be made of Burma teak in the Colonial era. When sourcing them became difficult, we repurposed old timber, especially teak from Colonial-era furniture. These are naturally seasoned, which prevents them from cracking when used as the inner soundboards of the harmonium.” When they started exporting overseas, the family realised that wood often reacts differently in colder climates. “We had to adapt and work using composites and materials that would offer the same sound quality. Today, we work with all forms of instruments and materials,” Ashish reveals. Constant evolution From electric mandolins and Hawaiian guitars, to banjos and rudra veenas, the family believes evolution is the key to survival. With a factory in Worli, stores in Prabhadevi and Dadar — helmed by the third-generation of the family, Dinesh Vishwanath and Uday Vishwanath — the connection continues. “I still remember Pandit Shivkumar Sharma calling us over to discuss some changes to his santoor. The thing about instruments of Indian music is that they are service- oriented — they cannot be kept as showpieces. You have to play them and maintain them,” Ashish remarks. This Sunday’s celebrations are part of this tradition and love for music. “It is not every day that you cross 100 years. In a city like Mumbai, where neighbourhoods change every decade, keeping the fire going through generations is an achievement,” sums up Dilip Diwane. On January 5; 5.30 pm onwardsAt Yashwant Natya Mandir, JK Sawant Marg, Joshi Wadi, Matunga West.Entry (passes available at their stores in Dadar, Prabhadevi and Girgaon) Call 223821425 (Girgaon)
04 January,2025 08:31 AM IST | Mumbai | Shriram IyengarFor many years, this writer was subject to being woken up in the wee morning hours of December and January to be part of temple visits to Chembur or Matunga. It was a fixed family ritual for generations of Tamilians in the city who miss the vibe of the season that is popularly known as Margazhi. “It is a whole other phenomenon in Chennai,” shares Mahesh Babu, founder, Banyan Tree Entertainment that is seeking to recreate the festival vibes in the city with their Margazhi Music Mahotsavam, which starts this weekend. Mahesh Babu “The idea is to make the season’s experience accessible to Mumbaikars. It is a beautiful season that combines faith, culture, food and community. We hope to recreate that in the city,” Babu shares. The two-day-long series of music concerts will bring together the talents of experienced performers like nadaswaram vidwan Yalppanam PS Balamurugan, Ganesh-Kumaresh, U Rajesh and lecture demonstration by Sriram Parasuram, among many others. Vocalist Sudha Raghunathan is more than familiar with the buzz and fervour that envelops Chennai during this month — including the performers. “Festivals happen all through the year. but somewhere it has become a familiar term that singing well in Margazhi is proving your mettle and standard. In one season, I remember singing at 25 concerts,” the Padma Bhushan-awardee shares. (From left) Sudha Raghunathan and Ganesh-Kumaresh will be among the notable performers at the upcoming showcase Raghunathan points out that Mumbai is diverse and different. “The listener in Mumbai is a lot more open and attuned to different things. The openness in the audience is vividly reflected in the artistes as well,” she notes. But there is more to the month than just music. “I spent over 15 years in Chennai and Hyderabad. I would often do ‘sabha-hopping’ as they call it, talking about music, performers and the food, always the food. At times, there would be arguments over the quality of filter kaapi,” shares Babu. This is one of the reasons the festival seeks to bring in the feel of delicacies from dosas to freshly brewed filter kaapi to the concerts. Raghunathan agrees. One of her fond memories is the dahi batata puri at Sadguru in Chembur. “Most concerts are in Dadar, Matunga or Chembur. So we would often hop down on the weekends if we were craving some delicious food. I still crave it sometimes,” she says, adding, “The month of Marghazi not only brings the music together, but also culture and food and practices. People dress as though they are attending a wedding, in their Sunday best as they say. Can we replicate it in Mumbai? Yes, it can be done. But the key is to first light a spark. The culture will evolve by itself.” ON January 4 and 5; 10 am to 1 pm and 3 pm to 8.30 pm AT St Andrews Auditorium, St Dominic Road, Bandra West.LOG ON TO in.bookmyshow.comCOST Rs 750 onwards The complete Mumbai Margazhi trail A view of the Matunga market. File Pic Bazaar buzzFrom the crisp new veshtis and pattu pavadais (frocks) to the fresh flowers and vegetables, Matunga’s South Indian markets will keep you updated on the trends down South.TIME 6 am onwards AT Laxmi Narayan Lane, Matunga (Central). Patrons at the café in King’s Circle Festive bitesNo celebration is complete without a proper dosa. Head over to Café Madras in King’s Circle for its fantastic podi idli and filter kaapi. It is a must for any concert goer.ON Circle House, near Maheshwari Udyan, King’s Circle, Matunga (Central). CALL 224014419 Facade of the Fanaswadi temple. Pic Courtesy/X Temple hoppingWith Margazhi, most South Indian temples acquire a festive air with recitations of verses from Tiruppavai. While Chembur and Matunga might be easy choices, our pick is the Fanaswadi temple in Kalbadevi. The 98-year -old temple will have special functions with month-long music and recitations.AT 80, Sitaram Podar Marg, Kalbadevi, Marine Lines East.
03 January,2025 08:56 AM IST | Mumbai | Shriram IyengarYes, mocha mousse may be Pantone’s Colour of the Year for 2025 but if you, like this writer, are eager to incorporate colours other than the questionable hue of lukewarm coffee into your wardrobe, we’ve got you covered. “Beyond our longing for comfort and indulgence [which is the rationale for mocha mousse being this year’s top pick], 2025 will also be a year for playful experimentation, which is evident in the colours that are dominating designers’ mood boards across the world,” explains fashion stylist Mitali Ambekar. Mitali Ambekar Image consultant Greeshma Thampi predicts that the fashion landscape will be painted in bold accents and unapologetically vibrant hues. “The mood this year is anything but basic. We’re seeing a lot of intense pops of colour, whether in pastel, borderline fluorescent or jewel tones, which are representative of confidence and exuberance,” she explains. With that, she and Ambekar share their top picks for 2025. Orangeade The colours of tangerines and clementines have infiltrated the world of fashion with their vibrant zest, says Ambekar. This colour works just as well for power dressing-inspired workwear looks, as it does in impactful casualwear. An orangeade blazer with neutral trousers and gold accents makes for a memorable work look, while a flowy orangeade midi dress with nude heels spells summer. If you dare, combine orangeade palazzo pants with a buttery yellow crop top for a cool colour-blocked style statement, she says. Tomato red Kareena Kapoor styles a tomato red saree A pendulum swing away from the ubiquitous mocha mousse is the next big colour for 2025 — a bold, unabashed red. “This colour commands attention. It oozes sophistication if used in the right amounts,” says Thampi. She notes that the easiest way to sport this hue is with neutrals such as black, white, beige, tan, terracotta and olive green. Greeshma Thampi Or you could use tomato red as an accent colour in your lipstick, footwear, handbag, or even ruby-inspired jewellery. “Red paired with denim is an all-time favourite for more casual occasions, while a monochromatic red outfit, such as a glamourous red gown in a trendy mermaid cut packs a punch for nighttime events,” she continues. Future dusk Raashi Khanna sports a future dusk outfit Named by World Global Style Network as their Colour of the Year for 2025, this colour is a dark, shifting and intriguing shade that oscillates between blue and purple, Thampi says. “The colour feels almost regal, which makes it a popular choice for special occasions, festivals and weddings. This colour works excellently in smaller accents as well — I predict that statement accessories and eye makeup in future dusk will be one of the hottest trends for 2025,” she says, noting that its versatility and gender-inclusiveness make the colour an excellent choice for classic styles and investment pieces. Barely butter Alia Bhatt rocks a buttery yellow suit This muted warm yellow is subtle and sophisticated, making it a perfect pick for the spring-summer season, says Ambekar. She suggests pairing the colour with grey for a chic but fresh look, or with powder pink to amplify the pastel cuteness. “Buttery yellow is representative of optimism and happiness. The colour is quite versatile and can lend dimension to a variety of looks, depending on how you pair it. For instance, olive, rust, brown and clay tones will tone it down, while pastels such as seafoam green or baby blue will make for an easy-going daytime look. If you aren’t afraid to make a statement, combine buttery yellow with vibrant coral, blue or lavender,” she suggests, adding that this colour is best reserved for day looks. Powder pink Aashim Gulati in a monochrome powder pink suit. Pics Courtesy/Instagram The colour embodies femininity and elegance, says Ambekar. She suggests pairing it with buttery yellow for a chic pastel combination, or black for contrast. A powder pink blouse worn with black trousers and nude pumps makes for an understated but elegant workwear look. Garments in this colour stand out when paired with rose gold and diamond accents, which enhance its softness. Thampi believes that a monochrome powder pink outfit makes an interesting fashion statement. “You could also incorporate this hue into your makeup, in the form of a lipstick or a soft blush,” she signs off. Other colours that compliment power pink are burgundy, lilac and jade.
03 January,2025 08:54 AM IST | Mumbai | Anindita PaulTwo finance graduates sit down in a café to brainstorm over a cup of coffee. In any other city, this would mean the birth of yet another start-up. In Navi Mumbai, however, Vihan Prabhu and Tegh Singh met to address a pressing question — just how does one get a Mumbaikar off their couch and running on a slow weekend? The Navi Mumbai Run Club, the duo’s new weekend running club seems to have found the answer; the duo has already helped nearly 40 Mumbaikars get on track with their goals. Members participate in warm-ups and cool-downs before and after the early morning runs “I started running in 2018 to shed a few extra kilos. While I was noticeably fitter in the world’s eyes within months, something else started changing inside me. I was mentally happier and more at peace with myself,” recalls 22-year-old Singh. Tegh would reach out to fellow Navi Mumbaikar Prabhu, who was pursuing a degree in finance in Bengaluru at the time, to encourage him to try this wonder drug. “I started running and was instantly hooked on it. After years of planning and co-ordination, we decided to introduce the city to the experience late last November,” Prabhu reveals. Tegh Singh and Vihan Prabhu While Singh is familiar with life in the fast lane, having studied equity markets in the buzzing halls of the Bombay Stock Exchange, the running sessions are anything but rushed. After a short warm-up and pep talk, participants are free to walk, jog, or run along the 5km running circuit on Palm Beach Road, with the option to take a roundabout at any point to return to the meeting point. In view of runners’ safety in the city, we learn that the group is joined by expert runners every weekend who guide runners in safety and discipline along the 45-minute run on the demarcated running track. Also Read: Run, Mumbai, run A participant warms up before a run “They come for the run, but stay for the fun that begins after it,” says Singh, referring to the post-run bonding sessions that include a nostalgic walk, or should we say run, down memory lane with games like Dog and the Bone and Simon Says. “With the run, we’re holding each other accountable for our fitness goals. The games cement this sense of community in the participants. A few young members even brought their parents along last weekend to help them socialise,” Singh reveals. Runners play a game as part of the post-run activity session For Prabhu, their hometown is an equal contributor to this experience. “Navi Mumbai has a certain charm to it. The wide roads with marked running tracks lined by trees, and a breathtaking view of the sunrise every morning might be the reason we have groups drive their way to our sessions from as far as Andheri,” he says. In the new year, the club is exploring newer avenues. A year-end activity last weekend saw the group head to the Newali trail in Panvel. “Monotony can push people to leave their goals mid-way. We asked the community how we can shake things up and a few participants who were itching for a more off-road cross-terrain challenge suggested a trail,” Prabhu reveals. Something tells us the runners from Andheri, for whom driving out of their neighbourhood is a cross-terrain challenge in itself, weren’t a part of it. On Every Sunday; 7 amMEETING POINT Third Wave Coffee, Sector 46/A, Nerul, Navi Mumbai. LOG ON TO @navimumbairunclub (to register) Beginner’s checklist >> Invest in running shoes and choose bright and breathable clothing to stay safe and comfortable.>> Start with small, achievable goals, like running for 5 minutes without stopping or completing a 2km run.>> Alternate running with walking to build stamina. Start by running for 30 seconds and walking for one minute.>> Keep your posture upright, land on the middle of your foot, and swing your arms naturally.>> Warm up and cool down with dynamic stretches or a brisk walk.>> Rest days are essential. Your body builds strength during recovery.Inputs by Tegh Singh
03 January,2025 08:42 AM IST | Mumbai | Devashish KambleThursday A centenary tributeExhibition: Attend this exhibition celebrating the birth centenary of artist Francis Newton Souza. time 11 am. AT DAG, The Taj Mahal Palace, Apollo Bunder, Colaba. LOG ON TO in.bookmyshow.comFREE Friday A moment from a previous performance of the play 1876 Stages of revolutionTheatre: Retrace the footsteps of Indian revolution against the British Raj with 1876, a play directed by Amatya Goradia about the trial faced by the National Theatre Company for inciting anti-government sentiments. TIME 1 pm onwards AT Rangshila Studios, Aram Nagar Part 1, Harminder Singh Road, Versova.LOG ON TO in.bookmyshow.com COST Rs 400 Saturday Pics courtesy/Instagram Chill outExperience: Rejuvenate with a therapeutic ice bath along with a pre-plunge warm up, breathwork exercises, and post-plunge relaxation.TIME 8 am to 10 am AT Sporting Lions Turf, Reclamation, Bandra East. LOG ON TO troveexperiences.comCOST Rs 1,800 City treasuresWalk: Sign up for a walk that takes you through stories about botanicals and the oral history of herbalism at the Maharashtra Nature Park with Mumbai Vann.TIME 8.30 am AT Maharashtra Nature Park, Sion Bandra Link Road, Dharavi. LOG ON TO @mumbai.vann on Instagram ENTRY Rs 820 New Year, new heightsTrek: Embark on a trek to the hilly Raigad fort to kick start the New Year on an active and healthy note. Discover the Maratha history behind the monument as you scale the rocky fortress for a breathtaking view in the end. LOG ON TO @trekkers.of.maharashtra on Instagram (for more details) CALL 8800144436 Sunday Poke and learnWorkshop: Switch on chill mode and discover the ancient tradition of hand poked tattoos in this workshop. Get hands-on experience in various design techniques and learn to create intricate tattoo patterns on synthetic skin. TIME 11 am AT Ink N’ Brew, Aram Nagar, J P Road, Versova.LOG ON TO insider.inCOST Rs 500 Marathi humour for allComedy Attend the last leg of Mandar Bhide’s (above) popular set, Shubha Mangal Saavdhaan, as he brings to audiences hilarious observations on the joys and challenges of married life and being a Maharashtrian. With his characteristic deadpan humour and witty punchlines, this show will be the perfect end to a weekend.TIME 6.30 pm AT Backspace, Lodha Boulevard Mall, Thane West.LOG ON TO in.bookmyshow.comCOST Rs 499 onwards Heal the Chinese wayWelliness: Attend this emotional healing session focusing on traditional Chinese medicine methods of acupuncture, moxibustion, and cupping by Michelle Pereira and Prateek Samwani. TIME 9 am to 11.30 amAT Tangerine Art Studio, Wilfred Apartments, Leo Road, Bandra West. CALL 9867369960COST Rs 2,100
02 January,2025 11:51 AM IST | Mumbai | Divyasha PandaCumulonimbus. We read this word after ages in a book. It means a dense vertical cloud that produces heavy rain and thunderstorms, and it is mentioned in one of the stories in a book we chose to cosy up during the last week of December. We had picked Letters from the Ginza Shihodo Stationery Shop (HarperCollins) for our love for stationery but fell in love with the lucid writing, leaving us longing for Japanese-inspired stationery and deep-set traditions. The book is divided into five stories about people who visit Shihodo, a stationary shop tucked in Ginza, a district in Tokyo known for its upscale shopping, dining, and entertainment. Its shop owner, Ken Takarada, has a unique gift for understanding what his customers need most — both from his store and in life. As the story unfolds, Takarada-san helps his patrons unlock repressed memories and secret longings by documenting them in the timeless art of the written word at a dedicated desk on the shop’s upper floor. Along the way, we also witness the unfolding of his own journey. Kenji Ueda Author Kenji Ueda is known for blending fantasy with everyday life’s charm, and that’s what he does in this story. In layers that slowly unfold, it explores the beauty of human connection and the quiet power of introspection—including familial, romantic, mentor/mentee — blended with emotions of love, loss, and rediscovery. We adored how delightful this book is — with its beautiful descriptions of stationery and the thought of Japanese tea and snacks that Takarada offers these customers, luring us to visit the quiet corners of Tokyo where tradition meets modernity. At Leading bookstores and e-stores Cost Rs399 Stationery buffs, look here! In Japan, stationery is a way of life. Drawing inspiration from the book’s chapters, we’ve curated a list of brands to help you level up and live your best life in 2025 . Fountain PensStarted by pen connoisseur Sripal Jain, Makoba has partnered with over 50 international brands, including Montblanc (mentioned in the book) and the famed Japanese brand, Namiki. From 14 and 18k gold nibs and different body and ink-filling systems — there’s a pen for all to write a new story. Log on to www.makoba.com . NotebooksYou’ll be spoilt for choice here. From cute Hello Kitty notebooks to minimalist designs that Muji has a serious collection of great minimalist designs in pocket and A6 sizes, notebook covers, leaflets, and loose paper in case you need a refill — we are fans.Log on to www.muji.in . OrganisersWhile we run to Satyam at Churchgate for our Filofax (mentioned in the book) for our planner needs, the Hobonichi Techo is a Japanese brand we love, too. Flexible enough to fit the lifestyle and tastes of its users, they have daily-page books, weekly books called the Weeks, undated notebooks with monthly calendars called Day Free, and 5-Year Techo, to name a few. Our current favourite is the Masamune Kusano x Junaida: Through the Purple Night. . PostcardsJapanese postcards were a popular form of visual expression and communication in the early 20th century, and are now considered a significant part of Japanese culture. Etsy has some cool picks, including vintage, travel, paintings, hand-drawn options, and artworks.Log on to www.etsy.com . MemopadsThese are delightful and functional, brightening up your workspace and allowing you to jot down notes, reminders, or creative ideas, making them versatile tools for personal and professional use. While Scooboo.com does have the French memo pads that the book mentions, we find the collection of Japanese ones on the Bungu store to be uber cute.Log on to www.bungu.store
02 January,2025 11:21 AM IST | Mumbai | Nasrin Modak SiddiqiWith a new year ahead of us, we inch closer to nearly two centuries since one of modern India’s first female teachers, Savitribai Phule, was met with a barrage of sticks, stones and mud for attempting to educate women,” social worker and artist Aishwarya Deep reminds us. At an all-women art showcase tomorrow in Dadar, Deep will relook at mud, but only as a medium to tell her story of using art and poetry to wade her way out of oppression in her hometown in Indapur, Pune. “When I first moved to Mumbai decades ago to leave my abusive household behind, I found my voice in Warli art,” shares the 34-year-old. The tribal art form appealed to her because in warli artworks, one cannot differentiate between a man and a woman, the rich and the poor, the backward castes and the privileged. “Isn’t that what Savitribai yearned for till her last breath?” says the first-generation graduate in her family. As an educational counsellor now, Deep has helped nearly 20 young women who share similar stories find educational opportunities in institutions like SNDT and Yashwantrao Chavan Maharashtra Open University. Traditional Warli artwork created by Aishwarya Deep Providing a platform to women like Deep who continue to live by Phule’s words is Deepali Vandana, co-founder of Urja Trust. Having grown up in the lanes of Kamathipura, Vandana recalls revisiting Phule’s literary works to chart a way out of what she calls a “bavandar” or ‘whirlpool’ of atrocities. “We may imagine today’s conditions to be much more progressive than when Phule began her journey, but we aren’t that far apart,” she remarks. But rest assured, the organisation is taking one step at a time every day to change that. “We might be separated by time, but with the anniversary showcase, we want to remind the world that Savitribai’s ideas are still as relevant,” she adds. Women gather at the Dadar venue for a previous celebration As Deep showcases her art, the words of the revolutionary will echo in the Trust’s compact venue, quite literally, through activist Sushma Tambe’s lokgeet or folk songs that shed light on Phule’s legacy. Tambe has a courageous teacher to thank, herself. “In the humble housing colony in Khar where I grew up, children would gather to learn Hindustani classical music under the tutelage of an experienced vocalist. I was fascinated, but I couldn’t afford the R100 monthly fee, of course,” she recalls. It might be courtesy of this guru who took her under his wing for a token fee of R15, that Tambe will be able to inspire a new batch of young women through her music tomorrow. Sushma Tambe in performance; Deepali Vandana and Aishwarya Deep Long, or rather soon, after the applause for Tambe’s songs or Deep’s artworks fades away and the curtains are drawn on the event, Vandana knows that the next group of young women who find themselves at her Dadar office, seeking refuge from their oppressive households, are not far behind. “The times are changing, but if it is for the good, I don’t know. With more enticing distractions all around us, the stories of these women are easy to overlook. But as long as the world remembers Savitribai, we believe there is a sliver of hope for them,” she signs off. ON January 3; 4 pm onwardsAT Urja Trust, near Ranjit Film Studio, Dada Saheb Phalke Marg, Dadar East. LOG ON TO @urjatrust (to register)ENTRY RSVP mandatory
02 January,2025 11:18 AM IST | Mumbai | Devashish KambleWild Fictions: EssaysAmitav GhoshComing in: January/HarperCollins This book of essays by the acclaimed author is the curation of his writing on subjects from over 25 years, ranging from literature and language, to travel and discoveries, and climate change. From the significance of the commodification of the clove, to the diversity of the mangrove forests in Bengal, it is a fascinating adventure that absorbs history, and acts as a reminder of the importance of sensitivity and empathy. With the combination of moral passion, intellectual curiosity and literary elegance that defines his writing, Ghosh makes us understand the world in new, and urgent ways. Together, the pieces within this book chart a course that allows us to heal our relationships and restore the delicate balance with the volatile landscapes to which we belong. A keepsake for fans of Ghosh’s writings. The Death of TV News in IndiaNidhi RazdanComing in: TBA/ Bloomsbury Nidhi Razdan’s book is the narrative of what really happened to the TV news model and why it broke, and lost all credibility. One of Indian television news’ most recognisable faces, Razdan, looks at the changes over the last 25 years through her life-work and provides an insider’s account. The WarriorChristopher Clarey Coming in: MAY/Hachette With the tagline, Rafael Nadal and his Kingdom of Clay, this long-awaited title will finally see the light of day after modern-day champ hung his tennis racquet in late 2024. Trace his remarkable story from a young clay court talent to becoming one of tennis’ greatest legends. The Loneliness of Sonia and SunnyKiran DesaiComing in: September/Penguin Random House The long-awaited new novel by the Booker Prize winner is a love story about two Indians in the USA, navigating the many forces that shape their lives: country, class, race, history and the complicated bonds that link one generation to the next. OceanDavid Attenborough . COLIN BUTFILEDComing in: May/ Hachette The world’s greatest natural history broadcaster of our times uncovers the mystery and the frailty of our ocean s with his long-term collaborator Colin Butfield, highlighting the need to protect the rich marine ecosystems that inhabits it. India through Iconic MapsDeepti Anand and Sanghamitra ChatTerjee Coming in: August/ Roli A collector’s edition, this exhaustively title is an unprecedented display of the scale, story and beauty of mapmaking in India. This book with more than 250 maps aims to highlight these hidden layers of a map and trace a unique cartographical history of the Indian Subcontinent. Tibetan GospelFarrukh DhondyComing in: TBA/Om Books The adventure-thriller follows the trail of an Indian Catholic priest, Father Darius ‘Francis’ Cama in a storyline that attempts to dissect the legend attached to a shrine in Kashmir, which is revered by some to be the tomb of Jesus Christ. Diary of a Cricketer’s WifePuja Pujara Coming in: TBA/ HarperCollins Rarely have wives of Indian cricketers expressed themselves about life on the road and their superstar statuses, let alone, write a book about it. Readers will get insight about the Pujaras on the road, their struggles, challenges and wins as Puja, Cheteshwar Pujara’s wife dons the author’s avatar. Bombay Duck Meher Mirza Coming in: TBA/HarperCollins From history to gender and nutrition, this chronicle deep-dives into diverse factors that have added to create the city’s layered culinary legacy. Stories by Manto: A Graphic Narrative Pinake De Coming in: TBA/ Simon & Schuster For the first time a collection of Saadat Hasan Manto’s works will be presented in graphic form. Here, some of his memorable stories revolving around the Partition of India will come to life, courtesy artworks by known and new artists. Pinaki De, graphic illustrator-designer and Debkumar Mitra, comics curator, editor and reviewer, are its editors. ElloraEdited by Deepanjana Klein and Arno KleinComing in: TBA/ Mapin The volume looks at the cross-fertilisation of styles in Buddhist, Hindu and Jain cave temple architecture with stunning photos by Arno Klein. It offers a systematic overview of the Ellora cave temples and looks at the stylistic development of the 34 main caves and lesser caves of the site. Lightning Kid Viswanathan Anand Coming in: TBA/ Hachette Against the backdrop of D Gukesh’s remarkable elevation to become India’s second GrandMaster in Singapore, India’s first chess GrandMaster, Viswanathan Anand shares 64 winning lessons for young readers and enthusiasts of the game. Drive to Victory Karun Chandhok Coming in: February/ Hachette In this cool take on Formula-1, Karun Chandhok takes young readers behind the scenes and under the bonnet to show what it really takes to drive to success in this competitive sporting discipline. The Man Who Fed IndiaPriyambada JK Chowdhry Coming in: April/HarperCollins This illustrated biography of MS Swaminathan by his great-granddaughter looks at how this visionary agricultural scientist ensured India’s food-scape remained abundant. Long before climate change and millets in our diet became cool buzzwords, he spoke about the importance of such key topics. Song of Asunam CG Salamander and Rajiv Eipe Coming in: February/ HarperCollins This modern fable follows the journey of Vetri, an adventurous boy and a magical, music-loving beast that descends on his sleepy village. Go Go Flamingo Devashish Makhija Coming in: First quarter/ Tullika With brilliant illustrations by Priya Kuriyan, this book written in verse and soaked in satire reveals the true story of our fragile ecosystem, and how senseless actions by humans impact the natural world with far-reaching implications. The Little Book of Indian DogsAnusha Ramanathan and Chandrima Chatterjee Coming in: July/HarperCollins Runi and her baba are looking to bring home the best Indian dog. But how will they be able to pick just one from multiple choices? Will they choose the Chippiparai, the Rampur Hound, the Jonangi or some other indie breed? This unique tale celebrates Indian dog and hound breeds and tells their story. Also Read 1. Life and Business Lessons from Indra Nooyi (Hachette)2. Brooke Shields is Not Allowed To Get Old by Brooke Shields (Hachette)3. PR Sreejesh bio by Uthra Ganesan (Simon & Schuster)4. The Golden Days: My Life and Times at Doordarshan by Sheila Chaman (Om Books)5. Aparna Sen bio by Suman Ghosh (Simon & Schuster)6. India in a Bowl by Meghna Kohli (Roli)7. Phantom Warriors: India’s Secret Tibetan Army by Tenzing G Tethong & Tendzin Choegyal (Roli) 8. Tested by Pat Cummins (HarperCollins)10. Kishori Amonkar: A biography by Shailaja Khanna (Westland)11. Do Sharks have Bellybuttons? by Jose Covaco (Harper Collins)
01 January,2025 09:58 AM IST | Mumbai | Fiona FernandezPink carpet welcomeComing in: April AT: TS Chanakya Wetlands, Navi Mumbai The Flamingo Festival is all set to take flight once again this year after a hiatus owing to the COVID-19 pandemic. “The festival had become a crowd-puller with naturalists, birders and families converging to celebrate the winged guests. We’re ready to put on an even better festival in April this year,” confirmed Shardul Bajikar, education officer, BNHS Conservation Education Centre. With the first batch (also known as a flamboyance) of the migratory birds landing in the city last month for their winter retreat, Bajikar revealed that the festival will be timed to coincide with the juvenile birds maturing into adults and their feathers turning the signature shade of pink. The edition of the two-day festival will include a sighting session at the TS Chanakya Wetlands followed by activities, talks, discussions and games centred on flamingos. “We’re introducing a series of talks by experts and a roundtable of NGOs and communities working towards the conservation and wellbeing of the flamingos,” Bajikar revealed. Japanese groove in the cityComing in: February AT: To be decided Pic courtesy/Instagram Can a solo guitarist keep Mumbaikars on the edge of their seats? We’ll find out when Japanese guitarist Ichika Nito (right) takes the stage in the city next month. Representing a genre that fits somewhere between math rock (don’t fret, it’s not as complex as it sounds) and jazz, Nito’s style might strike just the right chord with music geeks who are looking for out-of-the box sounds this year. On the back of support from icons like John Petrucci of Dream Theatre and Pete Townshend of The Who, the tour marks the neo-classical guitarist’s debut in the country. Dharavi to the worldComing in: January 23 AT: NCPA, Nariman Point The Dharavi Dream Project’s young artistes have stayed true to their 2024 New Year’s resolution. After months of working with director Neha Singh under the mentorship of Dolly Rateshwar, Dharavi Dreams, their debut musical production, will tour the city with its troupe of dancers, rappers and b-boys. The first show will take the stage at the NCPA. “The play is Dharavi’s success story of transforming from a hub of the vices to a melting pot of artistic talent. It’s their story, told through their experiences, in their style,” Singh informed us. Music to our earsComing in: First half of 2025 Pandit Hariprasad Chaurasia in performance at an IMG event To celebrate 50 years of nurturing Indian classical music alongside stalwarts like Ustad Amjad Ali Khan, Pandit Shivkumar Sharma and late Ustad Zakir Hussain, the Indian Music Group of St Xavier’s College, Dhobi Talao, will publish its first-ever book with inputs from young and veteran musicians. Newsy chucklesComing in: FebruaryAT: Sophia Bhabha Auditorium UK-based comedian Russel Howard, widely recognised for his TV shows Russel Howard’s Good News and The Russel Howard Hour, will test how well his signature British humour fares with Mumbai’s audience at his debut solo show in the city. Bringing the cavalryComing in: August At: to be decided Come August and Sunil Shanbag will be ready with the horses, quite literally. The theatremaker will premiere his adaptation of Hungarian playwright Julius Hays’ iconic production Horse at the Aadyam Theatre Festival this year. “It is set in the times of the Roman Empire ruled by Caligula. The play is a take on how authoritarian systems function and benefit by misleading the masses using entertainment. It is resonant to the environment of the day,” shared Shanbag. Lion’s roarComing in: First half of 2025AT: Mumbai Zoo, Byculla Visitors at Mumbai Zoo pose with a statue of an Asiatic lion. File pic After multiple attempts to find big cats for its vacant lion enclosure that is fit only for a king (and queen), the Mumbai Zoo is now hopeful of bringing in two Asiatic lions from Gujarat in the first half of 2025. Confirming that Mumbai will soon welcome a royal pair after more than a decade of efforts, Dr Sanjay Kumar Tripathi, director, Mumbai Zoo said, “We are pulling all strings to ensure the lions arrive as soon as possible. The immediate goal is to ensure it happens in the first half of the year. We are in talks with two possible organisations in Gujarat currently.” Tripathi further revealed that an ongoing plan to build an enclosure for exotic animals and birds at the zoo will gain speed this year. Zubin will be backComing in: January AT: Jamshed Bhabha Theatre, National Centre for the performing arts, Nariman Point Maestro Zubin Mehta (centre) conducts a concert with the Symphony Orchestra of India at the NCPA Begin the New Year on a magnificent note as the Symphony Orchestra of India returns to stage for its spring concert. With an opening act by maestro Zubin Mehta, who will join renowned Slovenian classical pianist Alexander Gadjiev to perform Chopin’s Piano Concerto no. 2, the line-up promises a number of classical and operatic masterpieces to the audience. Also Read: Zubin Mehta in Mumbai: My life conducting orchestra is like a molten lava, it never stops Sounds from ItalyComing in: MarchAT: to be decided Giorgia Anguili in performance. PICS COURTESY/INSTAGRAM Puglia-born musician Giorgia Anguili will bring her unique style of techno music powered by ethereal vocals and experimental digital instruments. Anguili will take the stage as part of the ZAMNA Music Festival in the city alongside South American artiste Shall Ocin. Hit the rewind button for MumbaiComing in: MarchAT: To be decided A new collective called Memory Keepers Collective led by author Shormistha Mukherjee is gearing to launch their new series of immersive audio-visual exhibitions centred on landmark events like The Bombay Plague of 1896 and its impact on the present-day suburbs of Mumbai. “If you look closely, there are visible signs of the impact the plague had on Bandra all around us. Through the collective, we aim to use oral history, lived memories, records, documents and photographs to mix art, performance and writing to create experiential glimpses about this forgotten history that shaped Bandra,” said Mukherjee (below). Mere gully meinComing in: January (test version)Available: Steam Store A still from the gameplay video While the wait for the much-awaited, speculated and anticipated GTA 6 title by Rockstar Games continues in 2025, things are moving much faster closer to home. Mumbai’s own version of the game titled Mumbai Gullies will be ready for a grand release this year. With developer Nikhil Malankar currently working on finalising the in-game voice-overs and sound library, expect the first test version to be out anytime this month. In addition to realistic maps and a fully desi open-world experience, we’ve learnt that a supernatural twist to the Maximum City is on the cards.
01 January,2025 09:13 AM IST | Mumbai | Devashish Kamble | Divyasha PandaADVERTISEMENT
