Without sneaking a peek, would you be able to describe the trees outside your window right now? If you drew a blank, much like this writer did, you’ve confirmed artist duo Jiten Thukral and Sumir Tagra's fear of the world turning increasingly ‘plant blind’. “We build our homes and lives around trees, and yet never consider them to be vital parts of the cultural identity of our surroundings,” explains Thukral. Through their exhibition Arboretum - Ebb and Flow, the Delhi-based artists are putting the spotlight on the flora that have new stories and old memories to share. Arboretum 25 - Quercus Pyrenaica Willd - A, 2024. PICS COURTESY/THUKRAL & TAGRA; NATURE MORTE INDIA The duo has nurtured a longstanding love for trees. “The idea struck us during the COVID-19 lockdown when we moved out of Delhi and video-called each other. I would take screenshots of the vibrant trees in Pondicherry that Jiten would show me,” recalls Tagra. These screenshots, owing to the network interferences, carried with them artefacts such as glitches and blurs. The collection of art works features odes to the chinar tree in Kashmir University’s Naseem Bagh campus, memories of holidays in Japan, and the nostalgic yellow amaltas flowers from Punjab. “The chinar, for instance, has been a mainstay in Kashmiri music, literature and festivities. We see it as a sentient being who has witnessed the history of the region firsthand,” the duo shares. Arboretum 24 - Platanus Orientalis, 2024 Tagra points us to various researches and theories that corroborate their belief. Canadian Ecologist Suzanne Simard, for instance, reveals how trees communicate through a network of soil fungi to share nutrients, carbon, and water. When we observe the photorealistic artworks closely, the glitches and blurs, they all find a reflection in the overall aesthetic. “The glitches reminded me of how we view trees in the modern world. Some people capture it in their photographs, some film them in motion, some write poems. We decided to turn our photographs into canvas paintings and imagine each stroke as a pixel,” explains Thukral. The artists project the images on a canvas and then, intricately paint over the details. Sumir Tagra and Jiten Thukral For Tagra, the return to Mumbai to present the works is a reminder of their passion for exploring unfamiliar terrain. “When we visited Japan for the first time in 2002 to document the trees there, we headed out armed with a simple printed map and nothing else. In many ways, the audience for art in Mumbai is similar. The city has a culture of stepping out and exploring galleries and learning something new every day,” he signs off. TILL October 12; 11 am to 7 pm (Sundays closed)AT Nature Morte Mumbai Gallery, Dhanraj Mahal, Colaba.LOG ON TO @thukralandtagra
13 September,2024 09:15 AM IST | Mumbai | Devashish KambleThrough British writer Roald Dahl’s many worlds, we encounter peculiar characters and dreamt-up words. The Dahl vocabulary is so vast that today there is an Oxford Roald Dahl Dictionary brimming with the onomatopoeic sound of his unique language. And although the author has written several stories for adults, his most popular creations are the ones he wrote for children. He also co-wrote the screenplay for the film adaptation of Chitty Chitty Bang Bang, the children’s story by James Bond creator, Ian Fleming. Dahl believed, “A life is made up of a great number of small incidents and a small number of great ones”. On his birth anniversary today, celebrated as Roald Dahl Day, we curate four of our favourite film adaptations of his books that you can check out. Matilda (1996) Matilda is perhaps one of the most loved stories from Dahl’s oeuvre. It traces the journey of a six-year-old Matilda Wormwood, who is so neglected by her parents that they overlook her supernatural intelligence. Having spent moments alone, she develops a love of reading and learning. However, a nasty surprise awaits her when she is thrust into a school run by the evil Miss Trunchbull. Aided by Miss Honey, who recognises her sharp mind, Matilda sets out to avenge the bullying of her schoolmates by Miss Trunchbull. Danny DeVito’s 1996 film adaptation mixes moments of humour with those of tenderness, and captures the wonder of Dahl’s novel to perfection.Log on to Netflix The Wonderful Story of Henry Sugar (2023) A moment from the film, The Story of Henry Sugar Dahl’s little-known story is now an Oscar-winning live-action short by Wes Anderson. Enhanced with the auteur’s ability to create aesthetically rich scenes, coupled with Dahl’s mastery over bizarre narratives, the film depicts the story of a man who was in search of developing a special ability. Henry Sugar wanted to see the world without using his eyes, so he could cheat at gambling. This is when he learns about the story of Imdad Khan, played by Ben Kingsley, who has achieved this ability using the powers of meditation and yoga. Sugar sets off on a mission to attempt the seemingly impossible, leading to fantastic results and an unexpected revelation.Log on to Netflix Fantastic Mr. Fox (2009) A scene from Fantastic Mr Fox. Pics Courtesy/YouTube Before Henry Sugar, Anderson had borrowed Dahl’s 1970 classic, Fantastic Mr. Fox, to create his first stop-motion animated adaptation. This is a story about Mr. Fox who slips into his conniving old schemes of stealing food from the wealthy farmers, despite promising himself to quit and provide a safe home to his family. The Foxes move homes while Bean, Boggis, and Burns, the three farmers, who find out about the fox family’s mischief make life difficult for them. Anderson’s obsession with precision, texture, and colour palette is visible throughout. This is also what makes him stand out from the crowd. Log on to Amazon Prime The Witches (1990) Anjelica Huston in The Witches Luke’s grandmother Helga used to narrate stories about witches to him when he was younger. A few years later, while they are on a trip to England, Luke comes across a convention where witches have gathered, disguised as ordinary people. They have concocted a potion that can turn children into mice. As Bruce Jenkins, a boy Luke befriends at the hotel, falls prey to this, Luke hides and watches. Soon, however, he gets caught and becomes their next target. Luke and Bruce hatch a plan to take revenge on the witches and save all the children from their wickedness. Anjelica Huston, who plays the head of the witches, the Grand High Witch, was praised for her impeccable portrayal in the film. The 1990 classic also manages to maintain the right balance in the depiction of the absolute evil of the witches and the goodness of the people, without exaggeration or underperformance.Log on to Amazon Prime
13 September,2024 09:10 AM IST | Mumbai | Nandini VarmaThane’s streets are buzzing with excitement as the city prepares for one of its most cherished festivals — Ganesh Chaturthi. Long before the practice of bringing Ganesha idols into homes became popular, sarvajanik pandals were at the heart of community celebrations. Even today, this tradition thrives, with vibrant Ganesha idols and intricately decorated pandals taking over the city. Our visits to the pandals were a pleasant and well-organised experience. With less devotees to manage, the organisers were polite and helpful. They offered prasad to everyone and playfully called out to those leaving empty-handed. The atmosphere was calm and peaceful, despite the pandals being located in heavy-traffic areas. We pick our favourites from the city for this year. Thanyacha Raja Established in 1979 by the Narveer Tanaji Public Ganeshotsav Mandal, Thanyacha Raja is the one of the most popular Ganpati pandals in the city. As the number of devotees increased with time, the pandal was moved from a chawl to the main road for better accessibility. Known as Navasacha Ganpati, this murti is celebrated as the granter of devotees’ wishes. In addition to its ornate gold and silver jewellery contributed by grateful devotees, you can spot a silver mushak at the pandal.TILL September 17AT Narveer Tanaji Sarvajanik Ganeshotsav Mandal, Panch Pakhdi, Thane West. Charai cha Raja Located in the heart of Thane city, Charai cha Raja was first established on August 15, 1992 by Jidnayasa Mitra Mandal. The pandal’s central location in Charai, one of the oldest neighbourhoods in Thane, plays a key role in attracting devotees. TILL September 17AT Opposite Thane Municipal School (Dagdishala), Thane West. Naupadyacha Icchapurti Founded in 1986 by a group of young friends, the Matruchaya Krida and Sarvajanik Ganesh Utsav Mandal is among the city’s oldest government-registered mandals. Amidst the bustling station road, the six-foot tall idol holds a silver jaswand flower as a symbol of devotion. Given the high footfall in the neighbourhood, the mandal organises a free bhandara dinner on the ninth day of the festivities every year for hordes of working men and women stepping out of the crowded Thane station as they head home. Not a bad way to remember the Lord, we say.TILL September 17AT Dada Patil Wadi, Naupada, Near Thane Railway Station, Thane West. Kopri cha Maharaja Compared to other age-old pandals, this one is only in its 10th year. But it has earned a place as the largest in Kopri, standing at an impressive height of 22 feet. Earlier known as Siddharth Nagar cha Maharaja, the mandal has been officially recognised as the representative for Kopri this year. The pandal draws larger crowd of 1,000 to 1,500 devotees every day. With organised management, and free food offerings, the hospitality stands out.TILL September 17AT Siddharth Nagar, Kopri, Thane East. Shreenagar cha Maharaja Established in 1987, the Shreenagar Sarvajanik Ganesh Utsav Mandal has been going strong for 38 years. This year, the mandal’s theme emphasises cultural revival through the remembrance of puranik stories and divine miracles through a unique presentation. In addition to the traditional 15-ft-tall Ganesha idol, the scene features statues that narrate a seven-minute mythological play. The exquisite murti is crafted by the renowned Siddhesh Dighole, student of the late Vijay Khatu — known for designing few of the tallest idols in the city. With a footfall of close to 6,000 visitors daily, it ranks high on the popularity charts.TILL September 17AT Shreenagar Maidan, Wagle Estate, Thane West.
13 September,2024 09:05 AM IST | Mumbai | Kanisha SoftaIt's official — 2024 is the year of the bubble hem or more specifically the bubble skirt and dress, thanks to popstar Sabrina Carpenter’s fondness for this silhouette. But, if you turn the clock back far enough, you’ll recall that this trend is simply a rehash of your girlhood aesthetic, with a small glow-up that now makes it more appropriate for all ages. “Although it may seem a little hard to style, bubble hems are actually quite versatile and work well with a variety of body types and looks,” explains celebrity stylist Mitali Ambekar. The stylist shares a few guidelines for readers to nail this look. Colour and structure “By nature, the bubble silhouette is quite architectural. These pieces work best when paired with tailored separates such as boxy blazers. You could also layer a bubble skirt over sleek trousers or play up the silhouette with a puff sleeve top,” says Ambekar. At the same time, she advises that you stick to a monotone or monochromatic look (all-black, all-white or all neutrals). This keeps your outfit from seeming too costume-like. “When styling such a dramatic silhouette, pare down the colour palette. You can experiment with accessories to add a pop of colour to the outfit, or add textural contrasts by wearing the bubble hem over mesh pants. You can also add texture to the overall look with lace, ruffle or 3D accents in the same colour as your skirt. To keep the outfit from seeming too saccharine, pair your bubble dress or skirt with boots or even sneakers, as opposed to ballet flats or Mary Janes,” she adds. For more formal and sophisticated events, stick to calf or ankle-length dresses and skirts over minis, and wear high heels that elongate your frame. MItali Ambekar Dress for your body type Avoid hemlines that end at the widest part of your thighs if you are a heavy set, advises Ambekar. “Skip bulky or heavy fabrics. Lighter materials create a better puff effect. Minimal accessories allow the hemline to be the focal point of the look,” she notes. Additionally, she shares a few ground rules based on body type: . Triangle shape: If your body is heavy towards the lower half, add a bubble hem to the upper part of your body, with your tops. Choose styles that have embellishments around the neckline and pair them with tailored straight pants or A-line skirts. . Inverted triangle shape: For bodies that are heavier at the top, wear a subtly-flared bubble hem skirt to balance your broad shoulders. Finish your look with round toe pumps and minimal accessories. . Athletic or rectangle shape: Add curves to your body by adding a flare to the top and bottom, and cinch your waist. Ruched bubble hem tops paired with flared pants, or a one-shoulder bubble hem dress with a statement belt, are great ways to enhance your outfit. . Round or oval shape: Choose lengths that are longer than your problem area. You can opt for hemlines that end just above the knee or mid-calf and elongate your frame. V-shape necklines can also help balance the outfit. Complete your look with pointed pumps. . Hourglass shape: Simply cinch your waist with a belted bubble hem dress. Round it up with minimal accessories and pointed toe heels. Also Read: With cropped capri pants back in vogue, stylists tell you how to nail the trend
12 September,2024 02:44 PM IST | Mumbai | Anindita PaulThursday Break out the laughsComedy: Leave your week-long stress at home, and begin your weekend with laughter. Prashasti Singh is back on stage, and this time, the comedian is returning with a new set of jokes that promises to tickle your funnybone. Time 8 pm onwardsAt The J Spot, Swami Vivekanand Road, next to Bandra Talao, Bandra West. Log on to in.bookmyshow.comCost Rs 499 Friday Tales from RussiaPlay: Dive into renowned Russian playwright Anton Chekov’s complex story with this adaptation of the 1904 masterpiece, The Cherry Orchard. Time 8 pm At Rangshila Theatre, Aaram Nagar Part 1, Versova, Andheri West. Log on to in.bookmyshow.com Call 9958624306Cost Rs 350 Saturday Pics Courtesy/Instagram Playtime with BappaKids: Sign up your munchkins up for this two-hour-long playtime where children can learn to make modaks, craft Ganesh idols with clay and mandala art. Time Any slot between 11 am to 7.30 pm At Playseum, DLH Mangal Murthi Building, Linking Road, Santacruz. Call 9819037944 Cost Rs 1,100 (including an adult) Up the gearsWorkshop: This two-day-long workshop will teach women how to ride a motorcycle. The session cost will include a Royal Enfield bike with fuel, safety gear and certification. Till September 15At South Mumbai, Aarey Colony, Thane, Navi Mumbai. Time 8 am to 2 pm (on both days) Log on to enfieldriders.com Call 8822456789 Cost Revealed upon request Sunday A rare bloomAdventure: Discover the purple beauty of Maharashtra, Karvi flowers, which are in full bloom at the CEC forest in Goregaon for the first time in eight years.Time 8 am to 9.45 amAt Conservation Education Centre of BNHS, Film City, Goregoan. Log on to @mumbai_musafirCost Rs 1,150 Relish an Onam sadhyaFood: Indulge in a 17-dish festive spread that features kadala curry, olan, malabari porotta and other indulgences from the culinary traditions of Kerala. Time 12.30 pm to 3 pm (lunch); 7 pm to 11.30 pm (dinner)At JW Marriott, Juhu Tara Road, Juhu. Call 9004616506Cost Rs 3,500 onwards Table top meetTheatre: Meet fellow football fans at this screening of .Tottenham versus Arsenal. Note that the invite is open for all fans of the Arsenal football club Time 5 pm At One Aura Restaurant and Banquets, Andheri East. Log on to @arsenal.mumbai Cost Rs 600 onwards
12 September,2024 09:31 AM IST | Mumbai | Devanshi DoshiSocial media is abuzz with recipes for the viral kunafa chocolate. For people like me who neither have the will nor the time to make this decadent chocolate at home, Ahlan Luxury Gourmet, a confectionary at Kemps Corner, delivers it home within 24 hours. Named Dubai knafeh pistachio chocolate (R1,994 for three), this one is as tasty as it looks. If you like your chocolates extra sweet, they also have a hazelnut variation. Log on to ahlandates.com
12 September,2024 09:26 AM IST | Mumbai | Devanshi DoshiTo be locked inside school on a beautiful, sunny day is never easy. The buzzing creative minds of children will always find a way to escape. Naturally, the story of Rohit and his adventures in nature was something Vidhisha Pingulkar found fascinating. The 11-year old Prabhadevi resident spent hours poring over Yuvan Ave’s The Tortoiseshell Beetle, translated to Marathi as Kaasavpathi Kida by Mrinalinee Vanarase. Vidhisha Pingulkar reads the book at her Prabhadevi residence The story delves into a few moments from the life of Rohit, a young school-boy, whose wandering mind discovers a new world outside his classroom. Guided by his teacher, Sudha, Rohit ventures into the world of ants, frogs, birds and the titular tortoiseshell beetle. “I really liked how the story talks about Rohit and his curiosity towards nature,” Pingulkar tells us. While an avid reader, she was delighted to read the story in Marathi — her mother tongue. “I don’t always find such books in Marathi. I liked the simple art work, too. It showed Rohit’s journey and expressions so well,” she says. Rohit in an illustration from the book. Illustration Courtesy/Reshu Singh The illustrations by Reshu Singh were one of the main reasons for Pingulkar’s interest. She admits, “The artwork and illustrations drove me to read the book. I enjoyed learning about how Rohit’s wandering curiosity leads him to discover the tortoiseshell beetle. The story teaches us so much about the need to be aware and curious about nature. We must not be locked inside rooms. It is always good to admire the beauty of nature and the many creatures that live in it,” she points out. Kaasavpathi KidaAGE GROUP: Above 4 yearsTYPE: BooksPRICE: Rs 80RATING: 3/4LOG ON: prathambook.org
11 September,2024 09:15 AM IST | Mumbai | Shriram IyengarReally what keeps us apart at the end of years is unshared childhood,” wrote poet AK Ramanujan in Love Poem for a Wife, 1. His words would later be published and widely read in the 1970s, striking a chord with readers across the globe. Among them is city-based theatre maker Tanvi Shah. “The poem posed the question — how does one sympathise and relate with someone they never met, or shared a history with?” she recalls. This weekend, Shah’s social experiment, packaged in a candid, interactive performance titled Unshared Childhoods aims to find some answers. Tanvi Shah While Shah’s rehearsals for the weekend session are in full swing, the theatre maker is yet to meet the real protagonists of the show. “The audience is central to the performance. Over the course of the performance, they will participate by reading out eight unshared letters that never made their way to the recipients. We began crowdsourcing these letters in 2018 by putting out a call for submissions online. Unrequited love, broken families, and forgotten friendships are recurring themes in these letters,” reveals Shah, adding, “When these letters are read out, you realise that writer and the recipient could have been yourself, or anyone you know. That’s the beauty of the universality of human emotion.” An artiste performs at a previous session Shah’s troupe of musicians, movement artists and dancers will add another layer of sheen to the readings. “A majority of our participants will be reading to an audience for the first time. To make them more comfortable on stage, performing artistes like Anoushka Zaveri and Diya Naidu will perform alongside the readings. This transforms the performance from a stripped-down reading to a multi-sensory experience,” she informs us. Over this weekend and the next, the group will stage four such performances. Participants at an outdoor session of the readings To enable the readers to deep-dive into tricky subjects such as guilt, spite, and shame amidst strangers, Shah must make them feel at home. A quaint farmhouse nestled near a mango orchard in Titwala, on the outskirts of Mumbai helps in this endeavour. “We plan to kick things off with a community breakfast in the orchard and a clay carving session later to break the ice and help the audience bond together. The comfort and emotional wellbeing of the participants is our first priority,” she assures us. The letters are presented to the audience For the theatre maker, the series marks another experiment on the personal front. “As a director, you’re always taught to be in control; to watch over every single detail. I’ve always wondered how it would be to relinquish these rights. With this production, there’s not much that we can predict. People have shed tears, wept, and shared hearty laughter at our previous sessions. You never really know which way it will go,” she signs off. ON September 14,15, 21 and 22; 9.30 pm to 3 pmAT Winding Road Studios, Vasundri, Titwala.LOG ON TO insider.inENTRY Rs 2,799 onwards
11 September,2024 09:10 AM IST | Mumbai | Devashish KambleFollowing the success of their inaugural Taste of Slink menu, Slink & Bardot has launched a second edition, the Peaks to Palms menu on August 29. With this curation, chef AliAkbar Baldiwala and his team seek to explore India’s geographical and gastronomical diversity, taking diners on an immersive culinary journey through India. The journey traverses through the length of India, journeying from the snow-capped peaks of Kashmir down to the shady palms of Kerala. “The inspiration for this menu emerged when we hosted an event for Longitude 77, an Indian single malt whiskey. I was intrigued by the cuisines and flavours of the region along this specific longitude, and wanted to bring together their diverse flavours into a single, cohesive menu,” the Institute of Hotel Management, Mumbai alumnus explains. Idukki gold This six-course tasting menu celebrates the rich flavours and traditions of these diverse Indian regions. The culinary journey begins with the aromatic flavours of Kashmir, featuring a morel tart. It then descends into the bustling streets of Delhi with a unique twist on chaat, offering either cherry tamatar ki chaat or macchli ki chaat. The menu also explores the royal flavours of Rajasthan with a creative take on the traditional dal baati. Moving westward, it serves the rustic, earthy flavours of Maharashtra with braised cauliflower Kolhapuri or lamb chop Kolhapuri. It then indulges in the coastal flavours of Karnataka with eggplant or buff nasi goreng, culminating in the rich, aromatic spices of Kerala in the Idukki gold. (From left) Saaj, a cocktail inspired by Kolhapuri flavours; Dilli Slink “We focus on key ingredients, building each dish around them, with complementary ingredients added to enhance and support the main flavours,” he says. For instance, the tasting menu opens by pairing the bite-sized morels from Kashmir with buckwheat tart from the Himalayan region. The dish is elevated with Kashmiri almond cream and a hemp seed dukkah from Himachal, adding a subtle spice that lets the morel take centre stage. Baldiwala explains, “I have taken inspiration from my culinary journey of both cooking and tasting different foods over the years. The menu is an amalgamation of my learnings through my culinary experiences. I have worked with these flavours closely to gain a deep understanding of how and where they can shine.” The inspirations are also personal for the chef. The idea for the nasi goreng and Mangalorean buff roast, for instance, stems from the chef’s own experience of working in a coastal Indian café. AliAkbar Baldiwala The second course blends Peruvian ceviche with local flair, featuring barramundi in a machli ki chaat. Tamarind habanero and avocado chutneys add a tangy and creamy kick, while a khasta cracker — made from the traditional dough used in kachoris and chaat transforms the dish into a unique appetiser. While he can’t pick favourites, Baldiwala states, “It’s all about the experience. Each dish is distinct, but they all come together to create a cohesive journey.” Mayur Tanpure Each course is paired with a cocktail inspired by the dish and its region. “We’ve incorporated rhododendron in the pahadi firdaus to reflect the rich botanicals of the Himalayan region,” says Mayur Tanpure, the bar manager. The cocktails are crafted to ensure that the spirit enhances and does not overpower its flavours. “For the Dilli Slink, we use vodka instead of tequila because its neutral taste complements the vegetal notes without overshadowing them,” Tanpure elaborates. The cocktails also celebrate regional traditions like cooking with ghee in clay pots. The gilded desert cocktail is aged in a clay pot and garnished with ghee residue giving it an earthy and creamy flavour. The new menu emphasises sustainability by using common ingredients across food and drinks, minimising waste and ensuring that the flavours of the dishes and cocktails complement each other. Coastal crème cocktail Ingredients>> 30 ml Jameson black barrel whiskey >> 10 ml kahlua coffee liqueur >> 5 ml baked banana puree >> 30 ml fresh espresso >> 1 scoop coconut ice cream MethodShake all ingredients together with ice until well chilled. Serve in a chilled coupe glass. Top with a coconut cookie for the perfect finishing touch. AT Slink and Bardot, Thadani House 329/A Opposite Indian Coast Guard Worli Village. TIME Sunday to Thursday; 6.00 pm to 1.30 am. (Mondays closed)LOG ON TO @slinkandbardotCALL 7045904728COST Rs 5,800 (six-course menu and two beverages) Rs 8,000 (six-course menu and five cocktails)
11 September,2024 09:05 AM IST | Mumbai | Kanisha SoftaUtkala kamala bilisadirghika, marela malini nilambu Chilika,’ wrote late poet Radhanath Ray in the 19th century, about the blue, wildlife-abound waters of Chilika Lake in Odisha. It is in these words, artist Sitikanta Samantsinghar found the title of his ongoing exhibition, Nilambu: The Body of Blue Waters, at Nine Fish Art Gallery. Chilika lake, the largest brackish water lagoon in Asia and a crucial habitat for South Asian migratory birds, is a victim of the climate change. The evidence lies in the massive decline in species that once migrated to this waterbody. “Once, over 256 recorded species of birds that would migrate to Chilika. This number has reduced to 160 species today,” Samatsinghar, who lives near the lake and has witnessed the transformation closely, informs us. The End of Getting-4, 2024, acrylic on palm leaf plywood; The artworks feature migrating birds and buffaloes of Chilika; Untitled, watercolour on paper, 33 x 22 The artist’s early inspiration comes from the Bhaga ChashiAndolan in 1953. The peasant movement, birthed by the killing of a poor farmer in Odisha, was led by his grandfather and freedom fighter Dr Nrusingha Samantasinghar. “I was born in a rural farming community. My artworks, hence, have always been influenced by the social and ecological realities around me,” he says. Humans, nature, animals and birds are represented through metaphors and imageries in his artworks that shed light on the pressing migration issues on the lake, along with the plight of farmers in Odisha through folk art and mythological references. “Algae — both green and red — play an important role in helping the ecosystem thrive. Lately, algae have started disappearing from the lake. They were food source for not only the fish, but the famous Chilika prawns, and the Chilika buffaloes,” he explains. A legend suggests that the curd made by the milk of these buffaloes was served to Lord Jagannath by a milkmaid Manika. The milk continues to be used in Jagannath Temple. “Today, the fish are very small in size, leading to starvation for migrating birds. The population of the Chilika buffaloes and prawns are decreasing because they don’t have sufficient vegetation to feed on in the lake. Sitikanta Samantsinghar and Gourmoni Das Another challenge faced by this ecosystem is extreme weather conditions,” the artist lists. Many of his artworks build on these facts and feature impacted animals, like buffaloes and the migrating birds. Curated by Gourmoni Das, the exhibition is a part of Dot Line Space Foundation’s ecology and research project. “Shores of Serenity [SOS] is our five-year-long project where 15 catalysts [research-based visual artists] will present the works in the extensive community project. We wish to bring to the limelight local craftsmen whose works revolve around ecology. We have been granted an NOC to continue the project for another 18 months,” Das explained, adding that Samantsinghar’s works were an extension of the idea. The artworks are a melange of mythology, surrealism, imagery and folk art As humans, animals, birds, nature and mythological beliefs join hands in Samantsinghar’s artworks exchange roles, they highlight the need to reduce rampant consumption, and contemplate the economy of ecology and politics of resistance. Till September 30TIME 10 am to 6 pm AT Nine Fish Art Gallery, Dr Ambedkar Road, Byculla. FREE
10 September,2024 09:25 AM IST | Mumbai | Devanshi DoshiHistory podcasts often revolve around big events that have defined the world as it exists today — change of reign, revolutions and wars, for instance. Forever Ago is a podcast which brings our attention towards smaller moments in history that help us find joy in the world. The show is hosted by actor, performer, and writer Joy Dolo, who is accompanied by various child guests. Belonging to the Brains On! Universe — a collection of podcasts for curious kids — Forever Ago picks up questions that fascinate children: How did popcorn become such an essential snack at the movies? Who was the first woman to win an Olympic medal? When did electric guitars enter pop music? How did the world come together to save the Ozone layer? Where did electric cars come from? Joy Dolo In a recent episode titled ‘Don’t Steal My Thunder! The History of Idioms’, Dolo converses with a young learner Zyah, and her friend Teddy. For the first two minutes, they whisper mostly in idioms, while sitting inside a library. They’re excited about the mysterious sounding ones. This sets the premise for the rest of the episode. Dolo and Zyah take the listeners through what idioms are and where some of the strange, fascinating ones came from. For instance, they recreate a scene from when playwright and literary critic John Dennis would have come up with the phrase “don’t steal my thunder” at the staging of Shakespeare’s Macbeth. This technique of learning is more pleasurable for children than handing them a dreary list of idioms to learn. Context and play enable them to grasp such concepts more effectively.One of the best parts of the episode is a game where the hosts play a guessing game; a common feature in all these 30-minute episodes. In this one, they try to guess an idiom from another language. A lot of US-based podcasts can fall into the danger of becoming unrelatable because of their culturally-specific contexts. Dolo is conscious of this at all times and pauses, from time-to-time, to introduce concepts that many within and outside of the US may be unaware of. She does this through her quick-snacks-and-fun-facts, bite-sized ten-second facts, or a quick discussion with her co-host. This makes the episodes more inclusive for children and adults tuning in from all parts of the world. BONUS EPISODE RECOMMENDATION: Cameras From Pinholes to Perfect SelfiesLOG ON TO Spotify, Apple
10 September,2024 09:20 AM IST | Mumbai | Nandini VarmaADVERTISEMENT
