It is a busy afternoon when Zahan Kapoor answers this writer’s call. As trustee, he is busy with last-minute preparations for one of the biggest celebrations of the year — the Prithvi Theatre Festival. “This is a concentrated time when the fraternity comes together,” Kapoor shares. Extended by five days this year, the festival will witness over 26 premieres by production companies across the country. Kunal (left) and Zahan Kapoor “Extending it even by five days has a logistical load. It has its own unique challenges from setting rehearsal dates to managing the venue,” Kapoor notes. This can be a challenge, considering the curation spreads across art forms of theatre, music and dance performance. The infrastructure though, Kapoor assures, is ready. The newly upgraded light and sound mixers ensure that the venue is moving ahead with times, while retaining its familiar feel. The other addition is the Fringe venue that has grown popular for radical experiments. “It caters to a specific kind of performance. It also encourages newer groups and more experimental work,” he remarks, adding that there are plans to transform the space into a parallel venue for shows throughout the year. “Extending the festival is a challenge, and we might have to power through. But that is part of the fun,” the Kapoor scion laughs, as he signs off. From: November 3 to November 18At: Prithvi Theatre and Fringe, opposite Prithvi House, Juhu. Log on to: prithvitheatre.org; in.bookmyshow.com The guide’s top picks At Prithvi Theatre Naseeruddin Shah and Ratna Pathak Shah. File Pic >> Return of old maestrosRatna Pathak Shah and Naseeruddin Shah open with Ek Dastaan Ek Haqeeqat, writer Ashok Lal’s contemporary dastans replete with poetry, themes of religious harmony and justice. ON November 4, 9 pm; November 5, 6 pm and 9 pmEntry Rs 750 onwards >> Live laugh loveManav Kaul’s new musical Pyar Aadmi Ko Kabootar Banaa Deta Hai, based on his book Prem Kabootar tells the story of three boys who fall in love and out of the ‘bro-code.’ON November 6; 6 pm and 9 pmENTRY Rs 750 >> Snapshots of a romanceGhanshyam Lalsa’s group brings to the stage three decades of a tender romance, through snapshots of a complex relationship in Khichik (Snapshots).ON November 7; 6 pm and 9 pmENTRY Rs 750 >> Finding singularityUnlike the premieres on show, Adishakti will be presenting the final run of their famed production, Brhannala — that first premiered 20 years ago on the Prithvi stage — based on the mythical episode from the Mahabharata on Arjuna’s transformation.ON November 8; 6 pm and 9 pm ENTRY Rs 500 >> Book this dramaMahmood Farooqui (extreme right) and Poonam Girdhani’s Dastan-E-Ret Samadhi take Geetanjali Shree’s Booker Prize-winning novel, Tomb of Sand and transform it into a dastangoi performance.ON November 9, 9 pm; November 10, 5 pmENTRY Rs 750 At Fringe >> Russian talesRussian poet Alexander Pushkin’s poem will come to life in Purvabhyas Natya Sansthan’s stage adaptation, Gypsies, that deep dives into the concepts of morality, conformity to law and freedom.ON November 13; 5 pm and 7 pmENTRY Rs 250 >> Grandma’s loveA grandmother and granddaughter’s bond of sacrifice and unconditional love finds an emotional expression on stage with Tumhara Shammi.ON November 18; 5 pm and 7 pmENTRY Rs 250 >> Murakami speaksA Japanese adventure is set to unfold with Adammya Theatre Group’s premiere of this fantastical story on Mizuki Ozawa’s chance meeting with increasingly mysterious characters in Aham Murakami. ON November 16; 5 pm and 7 pmENTRY Rs 250 >> Drunken reveriesMakarand Deshpande will bring back his drunk avatar in this solo act, Piyakkad, that he calls “an insight into the true makings of a drunkard”. Deshpande gives us a sneak peek, saying, “It’s the story of three veteran drunkards that have changed my life.” ON November 14; 6 pm and 9 pmENTRY Rs 750 >> Heart of a familySachin Khedekar (seated) takes on the role of a disillusioned patriarch played by the late James Earl Jones and Denzel Washington in Feroz Abbas Khan’s Hind, the Hindustani adaptation of August Wilson’s Pulitzer Prize-winning play, Fences.ON November 16, 6 pm and 9 pm; November 17, 5 pm and 8 pmENTRY Rs 750 Music >> Quadrophonics II – 4 PianosVeteran keyboardist Louiz Banks will unlock a treasure trove of symphonies with instrumentalists Tubby, Rahul Wadhwani and Arka Chakraborty, Gino Banks on drums and Sheldon D’Silva on bass.ON November 18; 8 pm ENTRY Rs 750 >> Symphony Orchestra of India Young piano prodigy Ayaan Deshpande will perform Mozart’s Piano Concerto No.21 at this specially curated programme. ON November 11; 8 pm ENTRY Rs 500
30 October,2024 10:33 AM IST | Mumbai | Shriram Iyengar | Devashish KambleWe are all for looking at the bright side of things, but this festive week, you might just be blinded by it — the city’s about to light up with fireworks and dazzling displays around every corner. On the not-so-bright side, one half of all firecracker-related injuries every Diwali involve the eye, ophthalmologist Dr Niteen Dedhia says. Dr Niteen Dedhia Even if you’re not ringing the festivities in with a bang and sticking to the simpler sparklers for that Instagram-worthy carousel, Dedhia shares a word of caution. “While sparklers may seem harmless, they burn at extremely high temperatures and can cause serious eye injuries. If you do use them, keep them at arm’s length and away from the face,” he points out. For those who are planning a truly ‘lit’ Diwali this year, the doctor shares a handy guide. >> Maintain distance: Debris can fly off firecrackers and injure your eyes. Opt for protective eyewear to steer clear of mishaps and use incense sticks to light firecrackers from safe distances. >> Choose wisely: Light firecrackers only in open, ventilated areas. Keep a fire extinguisher or a bucket of sand handy. >> Wait and watch: Never attempt to relight a firecracker that didn’t go off. Wait for a few minutes before approaching it with caution. As convenient as treating an injury at home to avoid a trip to the hospital amid the festive mood might sound, Dedhia strongly advises against it. A three-step plan of action will help you stay on top of things should an unfortunate accident occur. >> Do not rub: Rubbing an injured eye can exacerbate the damage >> Rinse softly with water: If there is a foreign particle in the eye, rinse it gently with clean water only if there is no open cut. Avoid using any chemicals or eye drops without professional guidance from a doctor. >> Seek medical help: After providing initial first-aid, it is always wise to consult an ophthalmologist to understand the true extent of the injury.
30 October,2024 09:31 AM IST | Mumbai | The Guide TeamPerfect your Pookalam Learn the traditional art of Pookalam rangoli with this video series. It teaches outlining and filling the rangoli with flowers and focuses on layers with intricate floral patterns.Log on to: Ira & Mom on Youtube Eco-friendly matters Celebrate sustainably with an eco-friendly, reusable flower rangoli. Learn how to repurpose old cardboard boxes, old newspapers and filler flowers to create classic floral designs. Log on to: Handmade Craft Lovers on Youtube Floral tribute Master the art of crafting vibrant floral rangoli using classic flowers like marigold, roses, and jasmine with this Instagram reel series. These designs enhance mandir or entrance décor and can be elevated by adding diyas and samais.Log on to: @kumaoni_soul on Instagram Go traditional Explore the foundational concepts of Sanskar Bharti rangoli through this series where viewers are guided from basic designs like bindu and resha to intricate patterns like swastik and shank. Log on to: Geeta Raotole on Youtube The Marathi tutorial Learn to create beautiful rangoli patterns and borders using motifs like flowers, diyas, and kalash in this easy-to-follow tutorial in Marathi.Log on to: Urmila Nimbalkar on Youtube Also Read: Diwali 2024: Take your pick from diverse kandeels in Mahim's Citylight market THE STEP-BY-STEP RANGOLI GUIDE We spoke with rangoli designer Umesh Panchal to gather an insightful step-by-step guide for crafting a classic Sanskar Bharti rangoli design. Materials: Coloured powders (green, dark blue, orange, and white) A flat surface for the rangoli A pencil or chalk for outlining (optional) Instructions: Start by identifying the centre of your tile or surface. Mark a small dot at the centre using a pencil or chalk. Use a round object (like a plate) to trace a large circle around the centre point. Make sure this circle is large enough to fill the space around the centre. Draw two smaller circles closer to the centre point. These should be evenly spaced and concentric within the large circle. Fill the space within the large circle using green coloured powder. Use dark blue coloured powder to outline the innermost circle. Fill the space between the innermost circle and the second inner circle with orange coloured powder, ensuring it is neatly contained. Inside the innermost circle, make a swirl in the middle and outline eight more petals using white coloured powder. Fill each petal with a small dot of colour at its centre. Make eight additional dots outside each petal, connecting them to the blue part of the circle. With a loose hand, use white coloured powder to create eight petals around the middle circle. These petals should be evenly spaced. After creating the petals, fill the gap between each petal with alternating colours of green and blue. Across the outermost circle, create a running pattern by placing dots at finger-width intervals. Connect these dots with each other using small lines to form a continuous design. Create eight larger petals around the outermost circle, similar to the inner petals. Fill these petals with blue coloured powder. Inside each blue petal, make swirls using white powder, adding a dot at the tip of each swirl for decoration. In the space between each pair of larger petals, create smaller white petals. Fill these smaller petals with green coloured powder and add a dot at the top of each. Border the larger and the smaller white petals in the outermost circle with dark blue colour.
30 October,2024 07:09 AM IST | Mumbai | Kanisha SoftaCurated by Devanshi Doshi, Divyasha Panda, Devashish Kamble, Nandini Varma Party-Planning Bring on the spook to your house, in a cost-effective way >> Plan DIY activities for your guests, like making a mummy out of jugs. Use paper for wrapping; add googly eyes and lights to your creation >> If it’s an outdoor bash, use an inflatable tub, fill it with ice, and Halloween props like insects (not real!). Use this tub as an ice bucket for drinks. Use a fog machine to create drama. >> Fill the venue with as many Halloween elements as possible. Decorate windows, ceilings, and corners of the main party area. Use a spider web made of yarn for the ceiling. Place a skeleton by the pot in the washroom to add fun. >> Window decor is picking up for all sorts of themed parties. For Halloween, create a simple idea by leaving red or white palm prints across the window glass. Lighting is key in Simple Halloween party décor for children Halloween parties. Invest in lights that add to the eerie effect. This, along with simple props like skeletons, balloons, spiders, and pumpkins are enough to throw a successful party. If you’re unable to get the props, you can also play around with easily available stickers that read, caution or warning. >> For children, skip the simple witch or vampire look. They are heavily into popular culture, and want their costumes to reflect the same. Let them pick their favourite characters. One such famous and easy-to-pull-off character is Red from Descendants. Myrah Rohra and Reenaa Gupta, founders, @eventsbay Shopping Props, decor and costumes, these websites and brick-and-mortar stores cover it all A battery-operated ghost doll >> Ghostly glamourFrom bright royal robes to classic Disney villain costumes and anime characters, this one-stop-shop is your ultimate go-to for the costumes you need to be your spookiest best this Halloween.At Wanna Party, SV Patel Nagar, Andheri West.Call 9582541493 >> Let’s get witchyWith a variety of masquerade masks, classic witch cloaks, and wearable props, get the right amount of gore and fun to make your Halloween an absolute hit.At Madcaps the party shop, Lokhandwala Complex, Andheri West. Call 9920494956 A Maleficent headgear prop at the Kalbadevi store >> Dog or a Beetle?As Beetlejuice lips trend on social media, the gothic character is set to be recreated the most this season. For a playful twist on this trend, get your four-legged friend this Beetlejuice pet costume.Log on to Impoosy on AmazonCost R4,448 >> A hell of a timeThis party shop in Kalbadevi offers affordable, classic Halloween costumes, accessories like blood-stained nails and broken skulls, and props like Harry Potter’s flying broom, and devil horns.At The Hell Party Shop, Chandiwala Building, Zaveri Bazaar, Kalbadevi. Call 9819495798 A dog in Beetlejuice attire. PIC COURTESY/Impoosy Cries of fearWithout having much to do, this battery-operated vibrating ghost can be left in any corner of the house or at food tables to ambush your guests; it makes unnerving crying noises.Log on to themomstore.inCost Rs 2,499 (available in black and white) Add an eerie touch to your party with fun signs. PIC COURTESY/EVENTS BAY A wicked gourdFrom colour-changing jack-o-lanterns and LED festoons to funky bags for trick-or-treat and glasses for shots, this website is your go-to destination for all things pumpkins. Log on to partywholesale.inCost Rs 55 onwards Listen Don’t let a last-minute playlist scare the fun out of your Halloween party Alice Cooper’s spooky avatar. PIC COURTESY/WIKIMEDIA COMMONS >> Hallo, it’s me: Let the Halloween vibe creep in as your mysterious guests settle in. Tune into soundtracks like John Carpenter’s Halloween, Skeleton Rocks’ Into the night, or Fraankenstein’s Run for the perfect background score to your spooky ice-breakers. >> Rock it out: Wake the party up with Swedish rock band Ghost’s chilling discography or punk rockers Misfits’ classics like Dig up her bones and Horror hotel. The brave ones can tune into one of Alice Cooper’s live concert videos for a mind-blowing spectacle (spoiler alert: it includes a guillotine, broken necks and some bloody good action) >> Pop a trick: Pull out crowd favourites for a sing-along session. Tune into Billie Eilish’s album When We All Fall Asleep Where Do We Go, or Kim Petras’ 2018 EP Turn Off The Light. If you’re feeling retro, we suggest sneaking in a few Abel (formerly, The Weeknd) tunes or a full throwback to Michael Jackson’s Thriller or Donovan’s Season of the witch. >> Story time: No great Halloween party must end without a spooky story session. Pass the mic to the Desi Crime Podcast that dives head first into true crime stories of vanishing families, paranormal sightings and serial killers.AVAILABLE Spotify Read For those who like to ‘party’ with the scariest finds, from mystery to eerie, to horror >> A Murderous Plot by Sue Minix: THE townsfolk of Riddleton County are gearing up for Halloween in Sue Minix’s latest detective fiction, A Murderous Plot (HarperCollins). Carved-pumpkins and DIY ghosts sit at the store entrances. The protagonist, Jen, a murder mystery writer, co-runs the town bookshop with her friend Lacey. While the latter sketches artwork to decorate the bookshop, Jen gets busy writing her new novel. When a fresh case arrives at the police, where her partner Eric works, Jen gets involved. The neighbouring resort owner Simeon Kirby has been killed. Jen had resented him for bringing tourists and development projects into town that threatened to ruin the small-town spirit. How deep will she go to find the truth? Author Sue Minix Minix draws readers into a whodunit through her arresting characters. Their conversations at Angus’s restaurant, the Riddleton Park, and the bookstore, bring the town to life. In addition to the protagonist, we encounter Charlie, who assists at the bookstore, loves to dress up in costumes, and extracts crucial information about suspects from the Internet for Jen. There’s also detective Havermeyer, who works with the police force, detests Jen’s personality, and becomes a key player. In her attempt to build Jen’s world, Minix sometimes falters, sharing details that don’t contribute to the mystery to warrant their existence. This leads to a slow narrative at the start. However, it picks up pace as she gathers more information from various people in the town, and we move closer to the case. Jen is not a detective; she isn’t supposed to be at the crime scene. This choice by the author introduces a new perspective to a world of stories otherwise narrated by those who have the authority to investigate. Her position enables her access to conversations that one would conceal in the presence of a detective. Jen loves taking risks, which makes it a thrilling read. Also read >> Mouthful of Birds by Samantha Schweblin: The International Booker Prize nominee’s collection of short stories plays with ideas of strangeness within reality. Unsettling situations can lead to eerie conclusions. A father watches his daughter eat live birds every day, a newly-wed bride is abandoned in the middle of the road for taking a long bathroom break, a stranded passenger waits to board a train at a station where trains never stop. >> Japanese Ghost Stories by Lafcadio Hearn: Hearn’s horror stories will interest readers who’ve enjoyed plunging into Japanese contemporary literature. A chilling collection with blind monks, tree spirits, haunted concubines, lonely towns, disembodied heads, among other things. >> Bloodchild and Other Stories by Octavia Butler: These stories explore ideas of freedom and fear, and ask questions such as how much we are defined by our genetics and what genetic disorders can leave one feeling. AVAILABLE Leading bookstores and e-stores
29 October,2024 09:29 AM IST | Mumbai | The Guide TeamDiwali is here. Despite it being the festival of lights, we often turn a blind eye to our four-legged friends, who perhaps inadvertently, are always on the receiving end of our celebrations. “While spreading awareness about animal sensitivity to loud sound and hazardous firecrackers is important, the first step for humans and stray feeders would be to take precautions,” shares Akshay Ridlan, pet parent of three canines, and founder of NGO Pawfriend. Ridlan, who lost a rescue dog he put up for adoption due to the anxiety that loud noises from a festival had caused him, has drafted a fool-proof plan to ensure dogs remain safe. Stray feeders can attach QR codes to their community dogs’ collars to help locate them >> Small steps: Each dog in my home is different — one is old, so he can barely hear. Another is timid, while the third one is gentle. Those with more than one dog must note that you may not be able to take them out on walks together. Some dogs need special attention during this time, and may need to be taken out individually. Step out with your dogs early in the mornings (4 am to 6 am) or in the afternoons (12 pm to 2 pm) when those who usually burst crackers are either asleep or at school or college. >> Be a companion: Never leave your dog alone at home. Remember, loneliness kills. The sounds outside are bound to make your pets anxious. They are like four-year-olds and they need to be looked after just like babies. It is also a time when a lot of guests will come home. So, it is natural for the dogs to get excited. If you are leaving them in a room, make sure there is someone inside with them. Talk to them constantly, make them feel relaxed. Through an animal perspective, the firecrackers are like sounds of war. They need to be put at ease. I also give my dogs one tablet of Anxocare a day to help with anxiety with their meal. Akshay Ridlan with his pug, Hope >> For stray feeders: If you feed stray animals, there are 80 per cent chances that dogs that are from your vicinity will relocate during this time. They tend to run away from sounds they fear. Relocation for stray dogs is extremely stressful. The way to avoid it can be that you relocate some to a foster home for the time being. You don’t have to find a foster home for each dog. If a certain dog in your housing complex is known to run away, find a foster home for it. Discuss with your society committee if temporary fosters can be made available for them. Use collars with QR codes (see image alongside). Dogs usually have collars with contact numbers. But a relocated dog is alreay terrified and will not let you near its neck. It may even bite you out of fear. QR codes that dangle down from their necks can be scanned from far away, and the dog can be moved back to its vicinity accordingly. You can also do this for your own pets at home. Also Read: Hush a bye baby: Here's how you can help your pets stay relaxed
29 October,2024 09:21 AM IST | Mumbai | Devanshi DoshiIn 1973, when Peter Shaffer’s writing took to stage directed by John Dexter, it opened to chaotic reception. Many called it ‘disturbing’, while others found it ‘exhilarating’. This strong divide is what makes the Tony-award winning play an actor’s dream with names like Richard Burton, Anthony Hopkins, Leonard Nimoy and even Daniel Radcliffe attempting stage productions. For Sukrit Mahajan, the production today runs along similar lines. The cast in a moment from the stage rehearsal; (right) Arjun Kachroo portrays Paul Strang Over eight years, the theatre maker and actor has returned to Shaffer’s text to dig deeper into the complex themes. “It talks about the extremity of religion, mental health, internal struggles and also has a potential for visuals and theatricality,” the 26-year-old shares. The production at the Andheri venue today will mark his debut as a director, and also the first production of his company, Playhouse Productions. The team rehearses a scene from the play The play traces the curious case of a 17-year old boy, Alan Strang who blinds six horses, and becomes the source of his psychiatrist, Dr Drysart’s own internal explorations. Mahajan first performed it as a student in Netaji Subhash Institute of Technology in Delhi. Yet, with so many facets, Mahajan chose to go the Jungian way to add to the theatricality. Sukrit Mahajan “An unsaid and prevalent facet was the dark side of human beings — the side associated with shame. It is hidden from the world but only known to us. This is based on the term, Shadows of Self coined by Carl Jung,” the director explains. The shadows are not just metaphorical in Mahajan’s production. “We tried to incorporate shadow theatre as an integral element on stage using two long curtains. These are lit from behind. The scenes where the shadow self of the characters show themselves are placed behind the curtain,” he reveals. Dramatic as it sounds, it is an ambitious task for a first-time director. If the production is not complex enough, there are the psychological themes of Shaffer’s text. But Mahajan points out, “I wanted to avoid complicating it. For me, the play is the exploration of the human mind and the ways in which it works.” The evening will tell how simple that exploration can be. ON Today; 6 pm and 9 pm AT Rangshila Theatre, Aram Nagar Part 1, Versova, Andheri WestLOG ON TO @sukrit84; in.bookmyshow.comCOST Rs 399
28 October,2024 09:47 AM IST | Mumbai | Shriram IyengarAaddictively brutal’. That’s how most people who find themselves hooked to the hit HBO-television series Industry would describe the show, which has now returned for its third season. Seemingly centred around a group of relentlessly ambitious but entirely dysfunctional finance executives whose lives, careers and existence revolve around a prestigious London-based investment bank, the show touches on narratives that ring a little too uncomfortably close to home for many. Of these, the most prominent is workplace toxicity, a theme that has gained particular notoriety in recent times, especially after the tragic death of a Big Four employee who reportedly succumbed to relentless work pressure. But, dig a little deeper and you’ll find that the definition of what comprises workplace toxicity varies, depending on who you ask — while some may quote an overbearing boss or a crushing workload, others may describe it as a more deeply-seated dissatisfaction with how they’re treated or perceived at their workplace. Toxic or a new normal? For Dr Brajesh Bajpai, who holds a coaching and mentoring doctorate, a toxic workplace is one where the performance or wellbeing of employees is impacted because of harassment, bullying or discrimination. “Today, the term ‘toxic workplace’ is used quite broadly and casually. While there are clearly defined parameters such as abusive behaviour, bullying, and physical or sexual misconduct that most people recognise as unhealthy, there are also individual and specific parameters ascribed as contributing to workplace toxicity. Growing awareness about international work cultures [he notes that while European countries have been prioritising work-life balance for several decades now, Indian employers and employees have only recently been introduced to the concept] as well as increasing conversations about mental health, combined with rapidly evolving work cultures and communication styles, have all contributed to workplace toxicity becoming an increasingly popular topic for discussion,” he observes. The TV series explores topical and hard-hitting themes like workplace toxicity that employees face in a London-based investment bank “A toxic workplace is not just about occasional disagreements or work stress; it’s a space where negativity becomes a norm, and this toxicity often stems from dysfunctional leadership or unaddressed conflicts. When communication breaks down and fear, manipulation, or favouritism become common, it fosters an environment where employees feel constantly threatened or marginalised,” explains Dr Naazneen Ladak, a psychiatrist and mental health expert. She adds that factors such as unrealistic deadlines, micromanagement, or a lack of trust in employees’ abilities contribute to mental strain and can lead to them spiralling into anxiety or depression. Over time, this erodes creativity and productivity. Bajpai notes, however, that an occasional instance of being asked to work late, or on a weekend, or being tasked with an uncharacteristically heavy workload does not necessarily constitute toxicity. “It’s only when these behaviours become repetitive and form an observable pattern that they veer into the realm of workplace toxicity,” he clarifies. Dr Ladak adds that a clear indicator is when employees start to feel that their work or efforts never seem to be enough. “Constant feelings of inadequacy are a sign that the environment is psychologically damaging. If employees notice frequent passive-aggressive behaviour, cliques forming, or communication becoming a weapon rather than a tool, these are red flags. Toxicity often creeps in subtly, with signs such as emotional exhaustion, distrust among colleagues, or feeling isolated even when part of a team,” she shares. Hemalatha Raghuvanshi, co-founder and CHRO of Sekel Tech, says that a chronic inability by the organisation, whether in the form of HR or the upper management, to remedy toxic behaviours can foster a toxic work culture. “If manipulation is encouraged, there is no appreciation for good work, unprofessional behaviour is rewarded as is unhealthy competition, it can be indicative of an unhealthy organisational culture,” she explains. Brajesh Bajpai and Naazneen Ladak Mindset shift Dr Bajpai notes that, quite often, the factors that lead employees to succumb to unhealthy ways of coping with work pressures or feel overwhelmed by what is expected of them professionally stems from factors that lie within. Fostering relationships with colleagues can help in coping. Representation pic “Many of the characters’ dysfunctional behaviour is not driven by external challenges, but rather by their own internal challenges that propels them to overcompensate by seeking validation at their work, at all costs. There is a Buddhist saying that goes: ‘The first arrow hurts, but the second arrow hurts more’. Here, the first arrow describes what happens to you, while the second arrow is what you do with what happens to you. Without shifting blame, it can help to sometimes take a step back, and look inwards and critically analyse what is causing this sense of internal turmoil. That is a good starting point if you want to adopt a constructive mindset,” he says. Subsequently, these steps may help to cope: Lead character (left) Harper Stern in a moment from the trailer of the new season. Pics Courtesy/YouTube . Set healthy boundaries: “Set clear expectations and learn to say no. Understand that there’s more to life than work. Make time for yourself to relax and de-stress,” says Ojas Mehta, a life purpose coach and workplace wellbeing facilitator. Dr Ladak adds that it’s important to consciously create psychological distance between yourself and the toxicity. This way, you can focus on your tasks and not the environment. . Have a sounding board: Dr Bajpai warns against leaning solely on friends and family members for advice. “These individuals, although well-meaning, are only listening to your side of the story. Instead, seek mentors in the industry who have lived through these experiences and have a more objective, macro view. Often, this may give you the clarity you need,” he explains. Fostering relationships with peers who are similarly affected is an underrated method of coping. There’s strength in solidarity, adds Dr Ladak. Hemalatha Raghuvanshi and Ojas Mehta . Solutions not complaints: If you find yourself compelled to take action, Dr Ladak recommends documenting toxic incidents and engaging with HR or the management in a calm, solution-oriented way. “If you’re strategic, you can sometimes turn the situation into an opportunity to lead change,” she says. . Introspect and be pragmatic: “Be honest with yourself about your true motivations. What this work is actually giving you? Is it money, achievement, challenge, learning, growth, connection, time or something else? What is your motivation to go to work? What do you really want in life and from your career? These vital questions can give you a sense of your purpose, and thus passion and direction,” says Mehta. “While many industries have adopted a more progressive and empathetic work culture, certain sectors are still steeped in their unhealthy ways. A high-pressure, high-stakes environment will have its perks of material gains. However, there will be a trade-off in terms of your stress levels and mental health. Know what you are willing to compromise on and what your non-negotiables are. This will help you to determine whether you are a good fit with the job, the organisation or even the industry you are working in,” says Bajpai. Also Read: Toxic work culture: Insulted at the workplace? Experts dissect language, ways to deal with it and need for policy
28 October,2024 09:33 AM IST | Mumbai | Anindita PaulStart your Monday with a beautiful latte, fresh off the skills you’ll gain in this Sunday’s latte art workshop. Combining two therapeutic activities-creating art and drinking coffee, this workshop is designed to introduce attendees to the craft of latte art. Beginning with a brief history of coffee, the workshop emphasises the importance of a quality espresso shot and offers hands-on training to help participants brew the perfect espresso and create latte art.The idea for the workshop came from co-founder Tarun Sharma's vision of building a community centred on coffee, art, and music, where enthusiasts can learn, connect, and share their passion. It will begin with an icebreaker, “We ask attendees what they hope to gain from the workshop and engage them with a short quiz about coffee’s origins and types. This helps us understand them and adjust our teaching approach,” said Sharma. The session will kick off with baristas explaining the importance of a good espresso shot and giving a tutorial on achieving the same while focusing on critical elements and variables like the right grind size, water ratio, and temperature which prevent under or over-extraction of espresso. This will be followed by an espresso tasting ensuring that participants recognise the taste of a well-brewed shot. “Latte art is more than just aesthetics. It indicates perfectly frothed milk; if it isn’t done right, the art won’t appear as it should,” Sharma said. Participants will then dive into the hands-on process, from grinding beans and brewing espresso to frothing milk. The participants will be taught two pouring techniques; the top pour which adds texture and the down and closer pour which creates designs. The baristas will guide the participants on hand placement to create a heart design on the latte. Stencils will be provided for those who need extra support; in case a participant's designs do not come out right the baristas will teach them how to salvage them with coffee art pens. The workshop will wrap up with participants savouring their self-brewed coffee, along with cookies and conversations with fellow attendees. AGE GROUP: 16 years and aboveON: October 27; 12 pm to 2 pm AT: Ink N Brew, Shop no 3, Picnic Cottage, Dharti CHS, JP Road, Aram Nagar Part 1, Versova, Andheri West. LOG ON TO insider.inCOST: Rs 250
26 October,2024 01:36 PM IST | Mumbai | Kanisha SoftaWhat are the invaluable, time-tested lessons you imbibed from your collaborative research with the late Sharada Dwivedi?Sharada and I first met in late 1989, when she was installing an exhibition on the city’s history at the Asiatic Society of Bombay. As a 30-year-old architect and urban designer starting out to work in Bombay, I was stunned how the exhibition highlighted, for me, the vacuum that existed in the popular understanding of the city and its built history. Soon after our first meeting, Sharada and I embarked on a fortnightly column for mid-day, where we narrated the history of a particular area in Bombay, touching upon the contemporary challenges for that precinct. It was titled ‘Bombay – a look at historic precincts’. Bas-relief panels in Eros’ auditorium depict the story of making movies. Pic Courtesy/Noshir Gobhai The column ran from November 1992 to May 1993 and was translated in Gujarati and Hindi, and was published weekly in the Samakaleen publications. This experience gave us the idea and the confidence to do our first book on Bombay–The Cities Within. An ambitious project, it attempted to tell an accessible story on the city’s architectural and urban history, from its origins to the then present — the early 1990s. Typography used for the names of Art Deco buildings. PICS COURTESY/Hemant Chaturvedi, Noshir Gobhai, Aashim Tyagi The success of that title encouraged Sharada and me to go on to work on other publications on the city, which included the first edition of Bombay Deco. It was published in 2008, when very little information on Art Deco in Bombay had surfaced. What I personally learnt from all this is how these writings were really instruments for advocacy. More than just creating awareness about the city’s history, they became ways for other advocates to engage with issues of conservation. While working on this edition of Bombay Deco (Pictor Publishing), how did you ensure the content was relevant and yet could retain the soul of the first edition?When Sharada and I did the first edition we had a clear guiding principle, which was the linkage or relationship of the Art Deco style to the growth of Bombay between the 1930 and 1950s, which is to see how its expansion facilitated the style, and how the Art Deco approach to urbanism influenced the form of the city. So, it’s this central idea that I safeguarded as we worked on this updated edition. The essential content remains unchanged but has been updated and reordered to tell the story in the context of Mumbai in 2020 and beyond. The updated content also responds to the awareness and efforts that have occurred to safeguard these buildings as well as understand this aspect of our heritage better. Bold, geometric patterns were popularly used in buildings. Pic courtesy/Hemant Chaturvedi What worked in Bombay’s favour as compared to other major Indian cities of the time for it to emerge as the home for the world’s second largest ensemble of Art Deco architecture?The major factor was that an amazing amount of land was being opened up for development on account of the great reclamation projects and construction intensified to such a frenzied pace that investors quickly bought up every available piece of land in the established commercial and residential areas. This intensification was also evident in the form of higher buildings, facilitated using the newly introduced construction materials such as Reinforced Cement Concrete (RCC) and Ferro-concrete. The staircase in Breach Candy’s Kismet Apartments juxtaposes a bold spiral form with intricate metalwork. PICs COURTESY/Hemant Chaturvedi Besides this, a unique combination of factors led to the adaptation of the style in Bombay. Tourism and travel had made rapid strides between both World Wars, resulting in a continuing stream of visitors to Bombay. Many touring European ballet, opera, theatrical and musical troupes were presented at the new hotels and theatres and brought a touch of glamour and new forms of entertainment. Around the same time, rulers of Indian states began to visit Bombay at regular intervals for shopping, sports, en route to foreign lands, and most importantly, for informal meetings of the Chamber of Princes, the official body constituted for negotiations with the Government of India. Many maharajas and nawabs began building mansions and apartment blocks in this style, or buying flats in the city, in preference to renting villas or living in clubs or hotels. This created the appropriate patronage for the introduction of the new style. Details of Indo Deco bas-relief sculptures at New India Assurance building. The panels were sculpted by NG Pansare. PICS COURTESY/Shapoorji Pallonji, Amit Pasricha, Noshir Gobhai In addition, several Bombay architects, including those who had graduated from foreign schools of architecture, were returning to India and emulating contemporary European and American styles in their own designs. The presence of several European architects, decorators and designers in pre-war Bombay also gave tremendous thrust to the movement. In short, there was an amazing intersection of conditions that created — the perfect storm or conditions, for Art Deco to flourish — making Bombay the gateway for the style. Rahul Mehrotra with wife Nondita Correa and co-author Sharada Dwivedi at the after party for the launch of Bombay-The Cities Within, 1995. Pic courtesy/ Rahul Mehrotra Has the city changed from a conservation perspective since the book’s first edition? Is there increasing awareness or is the changing urban landscape too rapid and expansive in comparison to what its custodians are trying to achieve?A huge amount. The heritage regulations of 1995 have now provided both in terms of general awareness but also legislative protections. Awareness has grown among the residents of Art Deco apartments on Marine Drive or along the Oval Maidan and perhaps, a few pockets in the housing estates of the suburbs. So, while they exert clout and are safeguarding this heritage, the middle-class along Mohammad Ali Road or other parts of the inner city don’t exert the same sort of affinity for the deco style. I believe this has waned also on account of the great Art Deco movie theatres going out of fashion. Those public spaces were the real transmitter that popularised the style. So the next generation, unless they live in an Art Deco building, don’t get exposed to this style in the public realm. Rahul Mehrotra at the launch of Bombay Deco at NCPA on October 14 2024. PIC COURTESY/ PICTOR PUBLISHING As Abha Narain shared at the launch, the UNESCO World Heritage Site tag has ensured that SoBo’s Art Deco ensemble is safe. However, most suburbs are without heritage guidelines, and face threats, especially redevelopment. How can citizen groups and stakeholders preserve such sites?In the suburbs, the community-led approach is critical as a bulk if not all. The heritage building stock is residential and thus their conservation or not, affects the daily lives of its occupants. Finally, legislative protection in some measure is crucial — it at least is the framework of consensus at the level of both citizens as well as state. Images from handbooks produced by Associated Cement Companies that popularised the use of RCC. PICs COURTESY/ Rahul Mehrotra However, to create awareness and form a sense of the persisting value of these buildings for the residents is the only way a conservation movement works. This comes both from a sense of nostalgia and memory but also seeing the more tangible dimensions of these historic urban forms such as lower rise and higher density environments, and the sense of sociability they support. In contemporary Mumbai, which is now becoming a crazy accumulation of skyscrapers, the wonderful human scaled streets in Art Deco precincts will hopefully trigger a desire in the next generation to protect them.
26 October,2024 10:17 AM IST | Mumbai | Fiona FernandezThere is a perception of Classical musicians as serious men. Anil Srinivasan’s garrulous laugh washes away such apprehensions. A Sangeet Natak Akademi-awardee, the pianist is also the first Western Classical musician to be awarded the Kalaimamani by the Tamil Nadu State Government. “I brought the piano kicking and screaming to the sabhas,” he laughs. This weekend, he is in Mumbai and will perform with his friend, Carnatic vocalist, Sikkil Gurucharan, for Poets on the Piano. They have been regular visitors to the city, but separately. The pianist began his career in advertising with Ogilvy in Churchgate. “I remember getting on a Virar fast in my first week. I never got down at Borivali as planned,” the former Chembur-resident chuckles. The duo first performed together at an alumni meet for a children’s production at their school, Vidya Mandir in Chennai, in 2005. “By that time, I had worked with Mandolin Srinivas and Aruna Sairam among others,” says the pianist who decided to take the partnership further with the new idea. For Gurucharan, it was different. Grandson of Sikkil Kunjumani, of the acclaimed flautist duo Sikkil Sisters, he was establishing himself as a name in the Carnatic sabhas of Chennai. “I was the more anxious one. A Carnatic voice with the Western piano was a new concept. But as we went on, we were convinced,” he shares. Poets on the Piano was conceptualised around poetry from ancient, medieval and modern India crossing over languages, eras and even themes. The duo emphasise that Classical vocabulary is not a limitation. “The form is liberating and allows you to do so much without disturbing its sanctity,” Srinivasan notes. Gurucharan adds, “You have such varied poetry with ideas, metaphors, colours and the cultures coming together.” Another reason that keeps their friendship strong is education. In 2012, Srinivasan founded the Rhapsody Musical Foundation to tap into music as a means to transform learning in India. A PhD in neuroscience, he shares, “I wanted to put art at the service of education. The other point was to teach people that music can extend beyond the scope of performance. This country has enough performers; it needs holistic citizens.” Working with 477-plus schools across India, the foundation crafts courses for children from primary to high schools. Not an easy task, shares Gurucharan, a trustee. “The whys and why-nots have to be addressed for this generation. My role is to return to my own experiences and help them understand,” he laughs Apart from music, food is a common love for the duo. “That will be a whole other interview,” says Srinivasan as he reels off a list of his favourites from Crystal in Chowpatty, to Britannia & Co. in SoBo, and Tintos in Bandra. For Gurucharan too, every concert ends with a food hop. “I love Marathi thalis. My friends and I often set off looking for a new find every time,” the vocalist shares. With music on their mind, they are already working on two upcoming productions. “We are curating an album for children. We are working on stories told through Carnatic music,” he reveals. The other project is based on the compositions of the 18th century female Carnatic composer, Muddupalani. “She composed a series titled, Radhika Santvanam — songs depicting the entire spectrum of romance between Radha and Krishna. It should be ready in the first half of 2025,” Gurucharan shares. Log on to @anilsrinivasan; @sikkilgurucharan
26 October,2024 09:51 AM IST | Mumbai | Shriram IyengarHenry Ford once said “Anyone who stops learning is old, whether at twenty or eighty”. With focus on accessible learning, India Study Centre (INSTUCEN) will be launching its Spark of Knowledge Diwali initiative as a part of their ongoing promotions. They will be offering free online zoom lectures on various topics including archaeology, literature, rationalism and geology. The organisation will conduct one lecture on the first Sunday of each month, starting from November 3, continuing into the coming year. “We believe that knowledge should be accessible to everyone. Ruins of Pompeii Most people want to learn but can’t commit to long courses, so we devised single lectures on Sundays when they might be free,” explains Dr Kurush Dalal (right), director of Archaeology, INSTUCEN. The first lecture, titled Volcanoes and Volcanism, will examine the dual significance of volcanic activity in geology and archaeology, focusing on its environmental, climatic, and cultural effects. Registrations will be announced on INSTUCEN’s Instagram account, and will close 24 hours before each session. If the session reaches full capacity, those registered but unable to attend due to space will receive the link for the recorded lecture via email. Subsequent lectures will delve into the history of the Crusades through Medieval miniatures These sessions will be conducted by industry experts and academics like Dr Dalal, Professor Mayank Vahia and Raamesh Gowri Raghavan, among others. Lectures will introduce attendees to diverse subjects and new discoveries in fields such as geology, astronomy, archaeology, and more. Each session will conclude with a Q&A session for attendees to get their doubts solved. “We strive to have a rational approach towards teaching. The experts know what they are talking about and can simplify the vast knowledge available today in an accurate manner for the people,” Dr Dalal explains. The lectures aim to simplify complex information and jargon in an accessible way, using tools like imagery. “The only requirement is willingness to learn and gain knowledge. We believe that learning shouldn’t feel like a chore; it should be enjoyed. We aim to show that it’s never too late to learn and follow your passion,” he emphasises. Coins from Jerusalem The initiative aims to nurture a learner community with diverse scope of interests. In one of the interesting sessions to look forward to, INSTUCEN will celebrate the birth anniversary of Dr HD Sankalia on December 10, with a special series of free lectures, dedicated to the pioneers of Indian archaeology, notable women in the field, and great contributors to the discipline. From November 3; 7.30 pm to 9 pmTo Register @instucen on Instagram
25 October,2024 12:30 PM IST | Mumbai | Kanisha SoftaADVERTISEMENT
