The Clan Issue ONE for the TEAM Surreal Family Destinations That Pack a Punch

A TATA SIA JV

THE INFLIGHT MAGAZINE AIRVISTARA.COM MARCH-APRIL 2021 VOLUME 7 ISSUE 2 The Clan Issue ONE FOR THE TEAM Surreal Family Destinations that Pack a Punch

ALONG THE SHORE Old Bonds & New Experiences in The Maldives

AUTHENTIC JUNGLE ENCOUNTERS IN KANHA | CULTURE TRAILS IN GUWAHATI

VIST-0321-COVER-Final.indd 1 04/03/21 7:17 PM

THE INFLIGHT MAGAZINE The Clan Issue

and your clan can travel safely, be it for business or leisure. We have also boosted our international connectivity through special flights to Frankfurt, Sharjah and the Maldives. As the world slowly opens up, we will offer more international options to 1

WITH THE YEAR THAT’S GONE BY the way it did, it’s time to reclaim travel with your ‘clan’ in 2021, to take the breaks and vacations that were shelved in 2020. Adventurous. Impromptu. Memorable—many new experiences await you, and there’s no better way to celebrate the bonds 2 you share than exploring a new place and trying novel things together with your tribe! Our specially curated ‘Clan Issue’ offers a deep dive into ideas and locations for your next big vacation with the clan—be it your family, your 1 friends, your colleagues, or your furry The Maldives is a destination for mates. From picturesque beaches in everyone—families, the Maldives to the serene villages friends, and your own on the outskirts of Guwahati; from 3 delightful company. the jungles of Kanha National Park Vistara flies direct from to the coral reefs of Zanzibar, we you and your loved ones to embark Mumbai to Malé have uncovered the entire gamut of on new journeys. 2 destinations that will help you make As India’s only five-star airline, Guwahati, and beyond, is lifelong memories... and inspire you enhancing every aspect of your a medley of superb to create your own unique itineraries. journey always takes centre-stage, riverside views, bustling At Vistara, we continuously and the newly launched, state-of- wildlife and a simpler life. Vistara flies direct from endeavour to give you an the-art, 3D inflight map app on Delhi to Guwahati unparalleled experience, and that our Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner is includes connecting you with your a testament to that. Vistara is the 3 loved ones in a seamless way. We world’s first airline to offer this Have fun with your clan have been running charter flights immersive experience. and create unforgettable memories at theme parks across the country and abroad to We hope you enjoy this issue, and like the Resorts World Singapore, Dubai, Hong Kong and we welcome you and your clan as you Sentosa, Singapore Moscow, among others, so that you #FlyTheNewFeeling.

/ 1

VIST-0321-FOB-EditNote.indd 1 04/03/21 5:06 PM NTENT MARCH APRIL 2021

20 Vogue Dress the part, or twin without missing a beat 26 Rise Vistara augments its cargo operations and does its bit to fi ght the pandemic 28 Strike A primer on IPL 2021 and the players to watch out for

40 Cover Story The Maldives is perfect for any form of vacation 14 46 Retail Therapy Expand Expert tips on how to travel Destinations to ensure your with pets, and items thatʼll next family (or friend) make it fun for them and you vacation is one to remember 16 64 The Celeb Diary Community family, fi lms Actress takes Artisan-led Sirohi is looking us through her top family, to change the face of work and travel memories luxe-sustainable lifestyle

ON THE COVER Soak in dreamy sunsets with your clan in the Maldives (pictured here: @vistara @airvistara @vistara Vistara - TATA SIA Airlines Ltd. Taj Exotica Resort & Spa, Emboodhu Finolhu)

2 / / MARCH-APRIL 2021

VIST-0321-FOB-Contents.indd 2 05/03/21 11:54 AM

NTENT

VISTA Picturesque destinations thatʼll enthral the clan

#TRENDING 12 The Round-Up Events and meets for just about everyone... solo or together 1 Social Feed What our patrons say about the Vistara experience 22 Smart Travel Here are some apps that will make travelling with your group easier and a lot more fun 23 Bookmark These books will give you sparks of inspiration and pure joy 2 Binge Watch Super picks from Vistara World, our infl ight entertainment service

SUITCASE 32 Conscious Coaching the next generation to become responsible travellers 3 Food Trail Savour the plates of Indore

ESCAPE Beat Kanha is an amazing place to rekindle the bonds of friendship Soul Experience the culturally-rich 36 66 villages around Guwahati Thrills The Last Word Canvas We list the worldʼs most diverse Singer-songwriter Coming face-to-face with animal theme parks and resorts for gives the lowdown on why travelling clans in their homes wholesome family fun with siblings is the best

4 / / MARCH-APRIL 2021

VIST-0321-FOB-Contents.indd 4 05/03/21 11:54 AM 4651_Maldives Inflight Advt_195w x 260h mm - Emirates Ad 01.indd 1 03/03/21 12:53 PM CONTRIBUTORS

ATA SIA AIRLINES LIMITED VP & Head of Corporate Communications RASHMI SONI Corporate Communications SUNAMI PAIGANKAR KAREN RAJA

EDITORIAL Editorial Director VIVEK PAREEK

Senior Editor PALLAVI SINGH Junior Copy Editors GAYATRI MOODLIAR, AMEESHA RAIZADA Senior Designer PRAKASH SINGH Editorial Coordinator KANCHAN RANA Manager, Production MANOJ CHAWLA Deputy Manager, Production SATISH KUMAR

SALES & MARKETING Advertising Sales Heads SONIA DESAI, SUSHMITA GUPTA Digital Advertising Heads (North & East) ARUN BASSI, (West & South) POOJA THAKUR ANAND KAPOOR MUNEESH TARSEM Director, Global Advertising Partnerships SANJIV BISARIA A true renaissance man, A famous photographer and Director, Special Projects RITESH ROY Anand is the co-founder of ﬁ lmmaker, Muneesh studied the award-winning Image at the New York Film Foundry Studios and Academy, and has shot many president of the Creative magazine covers and Plot No. 378-379, Second Floor, Udyog Vihar, Phase IV, Gurugram- 122015, Haryana Services Support Group. He’s campaigns. He is also a had stints in sports law, PR producer of digital content, Burda Media India Private Limited is a company of The Hubert Burda Media Group and design, and writes for the which he feels has changed world’s best magazines. the premise of storytelling. Hubert Burda Media India Chief Executive Offi cer BJÖRN RETTIG Chief Financial Offi cer PUNEET NANDA Director of Print & Strategy SIMON CLAYS

Hubert Burda Media Board Member International MARTIN WEISS

Burda International Holding GmbH LEGAL ADDRESS Hubert Burda Platz 1, 77652 Off enburg, Germany POSTAGE ADDRESS Arabellastrasse 23, D-81925 Munich, Germany

GEETIKA SASAN BHANDARI CHETAN NARULA Vistara is the registered trademark of TT S irlines imited (ʻTSALʼ). The magazine Vistara is published by Burda Media India A lifestyle writer and editor for A sports journalist and Private Limited having their corporate offi ce at Plot No. 378–379, Second Floor, Udyog Vihar, Phase IV, Gurugram 122015, Haryana, more than two decades, broadcaster, Chetan has India (ʻBurdaʼ) on behalf of TSAL. All rights reserved. The writing, artwork and/or photography contained herein may not be used Geetika spends most of her covered more than 240 or reproduced without the express written permission of Burda/ TSAL. Burda/TSAL does not assume any responsibility for loss time writing for publications international matches across or damage of unsolicited products, manuscripts, photographs, artwork, transparencies or other materials. The views expressed and digital media, and the globe, and has authored in the magazine are not necessarily those of the publisher or TSAL. All eff orts have been made while compiling the content working on her brand new two books on cricket and of this magazine, but TSAL/Burda assume no responsibility for the eff ects arising therefrom. Burda/TSAL does not assume parenting blog, ʻLet’s Raise Formula One. He enjoys any liability for services or products advertised herein. All advertorials have been marked in the magazine. Good Kids’—that’s when travelling and believes it is a she’s not travelling. medium to explore cultures. www.airvistara.com

6 / / MARCH-APRIL 2021

VIST-0321-FOB-Contributors.indd 6 04/03/21 5:05 PM

VISTAPICTURE PERFECT PERSPECTIVES ON AWE-INSPIRING LANDSCAPES

Oman Between mountains and gravelly desert, Oman off ers many breathtaking vistas that symbolise ʻoasisʼ. The wadis, in particular, off er excellent trekking opportunities, as well as a chance to take a dip in the rivers and pools. Jebel Shams and Jabal Akhdar, two prominent peaks, are great for family getaways, with a mix of adventure and relaxation.

“Oman is a gateway to some of the most exotic landscapes. The grand valleys, bustling souks and the lip-smacking seafood will definitely make it to my memoirs.”

VARUN BAHL Acclaimed Designer Edwin Remsberg/Getty Images; Hindustan Times/Getty Images Images Times/Getty Hindustan Images; Remsberg/Getty Edwin

8 / / MARCH-APRIL 2021 / 9

VIST-0321-FOB-Vista.indd 8-9 04/03/21 5:56 PM VISTAPICTURE PERFECT PERSPECTIVES ON AWE-INSPIRING LANDSCAPES

“Oman is a gateway to some of the most exotic landscapes. The grand valleys, bustling souks and the lip-smacking seafood will definitely make it to my memoirs.”

VARUN BAHL Acclaimed Designer Edwin Remsberg/Getty Images; Hindustan Times/Getty Images Images Times/Getty Hindustan Images; Remsberg/Getty Edwin

8 / / MARCH-APRIL 2021 / 9

VIST-0321-FOB-Vista.indd 8-9 04/03/21 5:56 PM VISTAPICTURE PERFECT

Gulmarg One of the most prominent hill-stations in the country and a principal draw of Jammu & Kashmir, Gulmarg isnʼt just a winter wonderland, it is the pride of the Pir Panjal Range. It off ers incredible skiing and sublime views among fi r and pine forests. A must-do is a ride in the Gulmarg Gondola, one of the highest ropeways in the world. The views, as youʼve guessed, will blow every member of your group away.

“Kashmir has always been on my mind, especially for a vacation with my mother. It is beautiful, the people are so warm and welcoming. Gulmarg, in particular, was a snowy paradise, and skiing there was a great experience. I’d say everyone should definitely visit Kashmir as it’s one of the most breathtaking places I have ever seen!”

HANSIKA MOTWANI

Actor & Entrepreneur Motwani Hansika of courtesy Sunami Paigankar;

10 / / MARCH-APRIL 2021 / 11

VIST-0321-FOB-Vista.indd 10-11 04/03/21 5:56 PM VISTAPICTURE PERFECT

HANSIKA MOTWANI

Actor & Entrepreneur Motwani Hansika of courtesy Sunami Paigankar;

10 / / MARCH-APRIL 2021 / 11

VIST-0321-FOB-Vista.indd 10-11 04/03/21 5:56 PM IT’S A PLAY 19-21 MULTI LOCATION APRIL The Chef 24x7 DATE #TRENDING ONGOING & The Dish With a range of cuisines from around the word, these online classes feature live video in a private or group setting. The chefs, from places as diverse as Peru and Turkey, patiently guide you to gastronomic wonder. You can even gift these classes. Get more information or sign up on thechefandthedish.com

GLOBAL World Summit AI Americas Is your child interested in the rich world of artificial intelligence? Well, this virtual summit includes some of the biggest names pioneering artificial intelligence and Big Tech, and is the perfect platform for them Add some fun to your day 26-27 to learn more. Sign-up to be a part of some path- with these fi ve retro board MARCH breaking discussions around data science and business games. Yes, families and communities. For more details, head over to friends are all welcome americas.worldsummit.ai ANAHEIM, UNITED STATES to play WonderCon Home CHUTES AND LADDERS The annual convention for all things comics and THE NETHERLANDS N If you have children and sci-fi is back, but it’s looking a little diff erent this National they are preschoolers, play year. Bringing the fun to you wherever you are, the Join in for some candid discussions 19-25 1-21 Museum Week APRIL MARCH this game to build their logic event will be virtual, and comic afi cionados from all with comic creators and fans, and improve counting skills. over the world can join in! The best part? You and science fi ction and fantasy authors, In one week, participating your children can dress up in your chosen avatar fi lm and television directors, museums across Holland host special sessions and BATTLESHIP CLASSIC and inspire creativity. To keep track of the event and producers, writers and creators at tours making it an enriching experience no matter Training kids to strategise sessions, visit comic-con.org/wca the WonderCon which part of the region you’re in. Some museums and be patient, Battleship even have special collections for children, engaging LONDON, ENGLAND is actually fun for the whole them and making learning enjoyable. To know more, WOW Women of the World family. Though you might head straight to holland.com/global/tourism/ dive headfi rst into nostalgia! activities/events/national-museum-week-1.htm International Women’s Day is on 8 March, but this virtual programme has slated invigorating talks and workshops through the month. Featuring speakers TSURO like Avni Doshi, Arundhati Roy, Kimberlé Crenshaw An ice-breaker for game TILL 4 and many more, a different sphere is explored every night, this is a tile-laying APRIL day from songwriting to artificial intelligence, and game. Players have to place these pioneering women offer a perspective that their tiles and build the path can help mould young minds for the better. Check to victory. out the full line-up at 8-10 thewowfoundation.com/festival/wow-uk-2021 JENGA CLASSIC SINGAPORE Build a tower brick by brick, APRIL taking turns to remove Otah & Friends blocks from the base until Ready for a game of hide-and-seek? INDIA the whole structure topples. This one in Singapore comes with LIVERPOOL, ENGLAND International Yoga 7-13 vibrant rooms and hidden clues, all MariaNikiforova/Shutterstock; Semen Kuzmin/Shutterstock; AI Ltd; Summit World of courtesy image Images; Knighton/Getty Daniel & Friends; Otah of courtesy : Image MARCH MONOPOLY ULTIMATE going with the mission of finding the Grand National Day Festival BANKING otter before the clock runs out! It’s A beloved tradition, The Grand National is a much-anticipated The festival usually draws thousands of And last, Monopoly—the perfect for both friends and families, horse racing event that boasts a global audience. Pause for attendees, but this year it’s taking a virtual shape. The essence, game of trade and scheming and you can book your tickets just over eight minutes to witness 40 riders compete to win however, remains the same: Unite people through the power of yoga. has been a family favourite beforehand on the grand prize. For details on tickets and the live telecast, visit Tune in for talks from experienced practitioners, and leave a little more for generations.

otahandfriends.com thejockeyclub.co.uk LEFT BOTTOM FROM CLOCKWISE Images Scala/Getty Pat S-F/Shutterstock; Haridas; Serhii Simonov/Shutterstock; Sharon by Doshi/Instagram/photo Avni of Courtesy centred. Register for the entire week on internationalyogafestival.org

12 / / MARCH-APRIL 2021 / 13

VIST-0321-TREN-Opener_Final.indd All Pages 05/03/21 12:02 PM IT’S A PLAY 19-21 MULTI LOCATION APRIL The Chef 24x7 DATE #TRENDING ONGOING & The Dish With a range of cuisines from around the word, these online classes feature live video in a private or group setting. The chefs, from places as diverse as Peru and Turkey, patiently guide you to gastronomic wonder. You can even gift these classes. Get more information or sign up on thechefandthedish.com

12 / / MARCH-APRIL 2021 / 13

VIST-0321-TREN-Opener_Final.indd All Pages 05/03/21 12:02 PM #TRENDING WHOʼS A GOOD BOY? If your furry friend is joining you on a trip, here are some great tips as well as the essentials you should carry. by GAYATRI MOODLIAR

TRAVELLING WITH A PET IS ONE OF lifeʼs greatest pleasures. They get to stretch their legs, discover new scents and, letʼs face it, have fun. With all the pros, however, there are a few things you 2 Confi rm if the place youʼre staying at them at ease, and helps avoid stomach need to be mindful of. is pet-friendly. Most hotels are issues. Carry their usual kibble as well. accommodating, but itʼs best to check. 1 You know your pet better than Keep your paperwork ready. Some anyone: How does she or he react to new 3 Schedule frequent stops when places need to see updated vaccination people and surroundings? If they tend to exploring a destination by car, so that reports or health certifi cates, so make shy away, respect their temperament your dog can stretch her or his legs. sure youʼve done your due diligence. and—as hard as it is—let them stay at home. Find someone you and your pet Try and keep their eating schedule All set? Now, here are some handy trust, and get them to pet-sit for you. the same as what it was at home. It puts goods to help ease the journey...

PET-FRIENDLY GEAR Tracker If your dog likes to good, and there are a variety and creates extra room. Also wander and if youʼre of great collapsible bowls consider a harness like this camping or exploring, this is that can help. Tartan number from essential. It can be clipped Tailsʼ Pop Up Bowl and the 3, which buckles onto the collar, and will AutoDogMug 2 into the carʼs seat belt slot. notify you if your pet strays bottle are great. too far. 1 and Backpack Going on a trek? are two good options. Extender The space Carry a bag that carries between the front and rear them, just in case. 3 Dinnerware Giving your seats of a car can be a ʼs Cat Bubble pet her meal on time is challenge, so a backseat Backpack , ʼs Legs 2 extender is a good idea. The Out Front Carrier, or ʼs foam backseat ʻextenderʼ by Dog Backpack are all good. keeps your dog safe Grooming Pet-friendly wipes are good, but ʼs Mud Dog Travel Shower converts a bottle into a mini

1 shower and is super cool. brands respective of courtesy All images

5 4

VIST-0321-TREN-Retail Therapy.indd 14 04/03/21 5:16 PM

#TRENDING

diff erent McDonaldʼs menu, too, so you IN HER SHOES Award-winning actor I think so! Earlier, I didnʼt experiment with talks about travelling with family, the food, and itʼs only in the last couple of years power of honest content and her Iʼve realised that travel is so much more dream of playing an assassin. enriching when you try new food. Itʼs a peek into so many traditions and cultures. And it by GAYATRI MOODLIAR just suddenly opened up so much more for me. That made me love travelling 100x more. Even within India, Iʼm always looking forward to going to other states, because backstage. A lot of my learning came from the food is so diff erent. 22 observing the way people work. Theatre teaches you life skills, and no matter how successful you are, I feel these roots keep Oh, Kerala! I think a general lesson was patience. None you grounded. It also taught me that of us knew when things would open up, but theatre is a raw medium of entertainment; Do you prefer solo travel, a family weʼre learning and trying to work through once youʼre on, it is what it is. Onstage, your it. For me, the most precious thing was that quieter moments are much louder; on I love travelling with my friends. We havenʼt I got to spend time with my grandparents. I camera, your quieter moments can be with taken a family vacation in a while, because know that I will never get so much time at a yourself and the camera will still catch you. my sister is in the US. Itʼs easier to plan it stretch to just stay at home and be with individually and set out. Iʼve been visiting them, to play cards and chat. Speaking of roots, whatʼs your earliest places where I have people. So even though I start solo, I always get people to join me. Tribhanga One of our fi rst trips was to London and, Iʼve not travelled solo since I love talking so yes, to all the touristy places. I barely much. But Iʼm happy to go with someone It was fantastic! I have known all of them; I remember this trip because I was probably and make new friends along the way. have known of all of them. Theyʼre four or fi ve. My dad made sure that every phenomenal. I went into this shoot feeling own decisions, however diff erent they may summer, we travelled to some interesting If you did have to plan a solo trip, whatʼs extremely intimidated because Iʼm a ʼ90s be. I say itʼs a privilege because not place. He loves to go to new places, and that kid, Iʼve grown up watching Kajol. But she everybody is able to make those choices. Youʼre being recognised for your OTT has trickled down to the next generation; The fi rst place, solo or not, is Europe. Iʼve doesnʼt make you feel like that at all. She Also, it helped me learn that kindness and both my sister and I love to travel. been to London, but Iʼve not experienced has the most infectious laugh, and sheʼs empathy are two of the most important Little Things the entirety of Europe for what it is. very welcoming. I think if I had to sum it up, virtues. You understand the phrase “walk a More than a personal win—even more than it was a riot. day in my shoes, and youʼll know what my as an actor—I feel like the real win was the I think that would still be it. Because itʼs the life really is”. As actors, we live that quote. fact that a platform like Filmfare fi rst vacation that I remember! The acknowledged our presence and validated funniest thing happened during the trip: Just being able to set out and spend time the work we do. I feel, above all, content My sister and I have a seven-year age gap, together, without other engagements. Itʼs characters once youʼre done shooting? won. Now, itʼs all about the stories we tell, it and she loves to read up and study the become so much harder now. When youʼre For me, when the cameraʼs on, I am on as a is not about the story of a specifi c hero or place. I was a toddler and I couldnʼt have in one place thatʼs not your workplace, you It was a challenging role, which is why I was character. Once itʼs off , Iʼm off . I canʼt heroine,but instead, about the people. cared less about history then. At lunchtime, get the right kind of quality time. very excited to play her. A lot of unlearning overanalyse and brood, unless thereʼs a my dad would ask us where we wanted to had to be done, but the one common special scene and that mindspace is Youʼve been dabbling in theatre since eat. To my sisterʼs disapproval, my answer We agree. Now, fi nally, whatʼs the one thread that bound us—Masha [Mithilaʼs required. But thatʼs not my method. I feel if would always be McDonaldʼs. She would character in Tribhanga] and me—was the Iʼm as spontaneous as I can be, I am more It helped me get the epiphany that stage is tell me, “Canʼt we explore food?” I would I want to play an assassin. Iʼve been

fact that we have the privilege to make our faithful to the character than if I overthink. Netflix of courtesy image poster Tribhanga Mithila Palkar; of courtesy Images where I get my happiness. I started say no because, McDonaldʼs Happy Meals! wanting to play one for a while.

16 / / MARCH-APRIL 2021 / 17

VIST-0321-TREN-CelebDiary.indd All Pages 04/03/21 5:15 PM #TRENDING

16 / / MARCH-APRIL 2021 / 17

VIST-0321-TREN-CelebDiary.indd All Pages 04/03/21 5:15 PM #TRENDING WHATʼS UP ON SOCIAL? Tune into all the Vistara chatter on social media.

@Aey_Sid @never.not.spotting @aero_horizon @sabbirkhan91

@Airport_FRA

@Lovely Asha @Ovilia Fernandes

TAG US IN Tag us on social media, add #vistara and you could stand a chance to be featured in the Vistara infl ight magazine @prathampy

18 / / MARCH-APRIL 2021

VIST-0321 TREN-Social Feed_NEw.indd 18 04/03/21 4:38 PM

#TRENDING

SRG STS Fashion is a way to experiment, and itʼs never too early to start. Bold colours, whimsical prints and a whole lot of joy—let the Encouraging your children to season come through in your wardrobe. choose their own clothes is a great way to boost their creativity. (Mini Boden)

This season, keep your jeans on the wider side and embrace the freedom it off ers. (L-R: Bershka; Zara Kids; Christopher Kane)

Sure, pink in the spring isnʼt anything new, but the faded hue Colour blocking is an easy way makes it stand out. to score points in the currently (L-R: Isabel Marant; HUEMN) trending department. (L-R: LOTA; Bottega Veneta)

Age no bar—a cool pair of sneakers are a must—especially if youʼre planning an outdoor family holiday this summer! (L-R: PUMA; Nike)

A beach vacation in the works? Weʼre Consider them earned already and opt for If you and your friends are planning a fans of swimsuits and trunks that off er stripes in any and every direction! Itʼs an girlsʼ trip after a while, make it a little both functionality and style. easy way to give the illusion of height or more fun with a matching wardrobe. (L-R: Marks & Spencer; Peony width, and it makes any look fun.

(L-R: Free People; Label Ritu Kumar) brands respective of courtesy All images Swimwear; Monday Swimwear) (From top: Missoni; LOTA; Paul Smith)

20 / / MARCH-APRIL 2021 / 21

VIST-0321-TREN-TREN-Fashion_Final.indd All Pages 04/03/21 5:16 PM #TRENDING

This season, keep your jeans on the wider side and embrace the freedom it off ers. (L-R: Bershka; Zara Kids; Christopher Kane)

Age no bar—a cool pair of sneakers are a must—especially if youʼre planning an outdoor family holiday this summer! (L-R: PUMA; Nike)

(L-R: Free People; Label Ritu Kumar) brands respective of courtesy All images Swimwear; Monday Swimwear) (From top: Missoni; LOTA; Paul Smith)

20 / / MARCH-APRIL 2021 / 21

VIST-0321-TREN-TREN-Fashion_Final.indd All Pages 04/03/21 5:16 PM STAGE I: PLAN IT OUT

Doodle Wanderlog #TRENDINGSMART TRAVEL When are you hitting When travelling in a group, the road? Your group you have to accommodate needs to sync calendars. a variety of sensibilities, Doodle allows you to see which means a lot of everyone’s availability, advance planning. This mark out your own free app lets the group suggest dates, and makes the places to add to your HUDDLE UP process collaborative via a itinerary, and offers expert handy voting system that guidance. It works with Organising a trip with your family or friends? Let can be used to confirm Google Maps too, laying these apps do the grunt work. tentative dates. out routes and stops. For iOS and Android For iOS and Android

STAGE II: HIT THE ROAD

TripIt Zenly Pinsteps Handling reservations, It’s vital to stay aware of In the spirit of group tickets, etc. by oneself where every member of travel, why not make your is hard, so it’s best to the group is, so you can trip a collaborative one? share the burden. With find each other should Pinsteps lets you explore this app, simply forward anyone stray too far. This the routes and places all confirmation emails app makes it possible to visited by other travellers from vendors to a TripIt share your location with at the destination you’re ID, and get your very own a private group, gamifies visiting, taking away the shareable master itinerary it with fun emoticons and hassle of research. Should soon after. It gets updated lets you know if someone’s you discover something as you firm up your plans. battery is running low. new, share your route, too. For iOS and Android For iOS and Android For iOS and Android

STAGE III: EASE POST-VACATION BLUES

Dropbox Tricount Ready to start reliving The last thing you want to the memories of that do at the end of a holiday trip? Steer clear of group is spend hours figuring chats and opt for a picture out who owes whom how sharing app with cloud much money. Instead, storage like Dropbox. Each check out this app that traveller can upload the lets anyone in the group photos they’ve taken to add expenses throughout a shared folder, allowing the holiday, and calculates everyone access in a the final tab for everyone clean, seamless manner. at the end of it. For iOS and Android For iOS and Android Dmitry Molchanov/Shutterstock Dmitry

22 / / MARCH-APRIL 2021

VIST-0321-TREN-Apps.indd 22 04/03/21 5:14 PM #TRENDINGMAR

THE HPPIESS PRD

Some of lifeʼs best-kept secrets can be explored in these books. by AMEESHA RAIZADA

AIZE LAM TE LITTLE by Sarah Harvey by Linnea Dunne E This book not only Thereʼs no doubt that by Meik Wiking captivates readers with Scandinavians are Thereʼs a reason why its wisdom, but also ahead of the world when Denmark is renowned with colourful it comes to employing across the world for illustrations adorning ancient life philosophies propagating and each chapter. Focussing in their day-to-day lives. cultivating happiness, on positive change and patience, this is The title of this book, Lagom, loosely and it has everything to do with Hygge. the perfect read for those looking to translates to ʻnot too little, not too much, Gradually inviting warmth and comfort improve their problem-solving abilities just rightʼ. It emphasises the diff erence into your life, Hygge is more of a feeling and, at the same time, get motivated. As between needs, wants and desires. than a philosophy. Reading this book will it helps map out phased goals and A liberating concept, Lagom is fi ll you with contentment and a sense of improve aspects of life, the Japanese concerned with minimal living, nurturing gratitude. It also features alluring philosophy of Kaizen is popular among a sense of common good and improving photographs, recipes and ideas for a new sportspersons and entrepreneurs. work-life balance. way of life.

EVERDA T TE PWER SIS by Nompumelelo I by Joanna Nylund Mungi Ngomane by Euny Hong Simply meaning ʻgoʼ, An ancient African Translating to eye Sisu is often related to philosophy, Ubuntu is measure, or the power stoic determination, all about living well, of the eye, Nunchi is all resilience and bravery together. Keeping about gauging other in dealing with human bonds above everything else, it peopleʼs thoughts and feelings to build adversity. Read this book if you want to reaffi rms the belief: I am only because stronger bonds. Born about 5,000 years fi nd your focus and enhance your you are. By overcoming societal ago, the Koreans have always used this confl ict-resolution ability. With lessons divisions, we can become stronger as a secret to steer clear of slings and arrows. for young parents, Sisu will help you raise community and pave the way for a better Learning to read a room will not only help children who are kind to others, resilient world. The 14 beautifully-illustrated us escape diffi cult situations, but also to failures and stronger in the face of lessons will stay with you well beyond the make us more understanding and challenges. The key to this Finnish

ll imaes courtesy o resective ulishers ulishers resective o courtesy ll imaes last page. sensitive towards other people. philosophy lies in integrity and humility.

/ 23

VIST-0121-TREN-Books.indd 23 04/03/21 5:15 PM #TRENDINGBINGE WATCH

WE ARE FAMILY! MUSIC FOR Some things are written in stone, like the way your family—chosen and otherwise—will always show up. THE CLAN A selection of acts that will make for an immersive family and/or friend vacation playlist. © 2021 20th Century Studios 20th Century © 2021 © 2021 WBEI © WBEI 2021 © 2021 20th Century Studios 20th Century © 2021 AN ENDURING ZINDAGI NA MILEGI DOBARA THREE BILLBOARDS OUTSIDE CHARLIE AND THE CHOCOLATE FACTORY Friends are your chosen family, and EBBING, MISSOURI While the movie taught us to stretch nothing exemplifies that like this movie. It Mildred Hayes goes to war against her our imagination—and that a love for B.B. KING LEGACY will take you on the road trip of a lifetime local police force, believing they’re too chocolate isn’t a bad thing—nurturing In His Best – The Electric B.B. King, and inspire you to live in the present. inept to solve her daughter’s murder. lifelong bonds remains its crux. you will be greeted with sway-worthy Families can come together in different ways—Mrs. Doubtfire is tunes and powerful vocals, fit for a a pioneering movie that showed how. late-night chat session. WHILE A SINGULAR COMEDIC prompting our lead to take on his performance by the late Robin character in order to remain close to HEAR THE PAGES RUSTLE Williams is what most people his children. Plug your earphones in and tune the world out with the help of gravitate to in Mrs. Doubtfire, the But, the movie does so in a way the immersive Pure Water: Poetry of Rumi. film actually goes far beyond that— that feels like a warm embrace for though his female housekeeper all age groups who watch it, and THERE’S A REASON YOU FIND RUMI’S and seek solace in the fact that we are persona will forever be etched in perhaps going through something words, penned in the 13th century, not alone in these fears and doubts. our minds. The film navigates the similar. It shows that families can percolating through the channels of This audiobook places his BEN HOWARD tricky but relatable terrain of a thrive in many different forms, but social media, appearing on accounts as guidance against a mellow orchestral Every Kingdom – Ben Howard is family tackling a divorce, and issues at the end of the day, they are all a pick-me-up. His strings of thoughts background, upping the ante of the like taking a walk through magical such as custody arrangements supported by bonds one must work teach us the power and beauty of ambience and allowing you to take a surroundings with your family. make more than one appearance, to strengthen. It’s a classic. poetry—how to visualise our feelings moment to dream.

KEDARNATH STEVEN WILSON GHAZAL QUEENS HAIM PANDIT HARIPRASAD CHAURASIA REX ORANGE COUNTY Composer Amit Trivedi produced a Do you need an album that you can’t Experts at crafting stories, tune into the This sister trio merges R&B, pop and rock Music has the power to calm, soothe and Pay attention to the lyrics in Pony, as record for Kedarnath that works to help but move to with your friends? likes of Shamshad Begum, Penaz Masani to create something you’ve never heard reduce feelings of anxiety—it’s backed by this young singer-songwriter captures tell the love story on its own, while Well, we’re sure To the Bone will have and Begum Akhtar for a soulful evening before, and something your cool, older research, and In A Mellow Mood proves it. moments, feelings and stories of offering a meditative quality. you rocking in your seat. with the grandparents. siblings can appreciate as well. Tune in at dusk for a relaxed holiday. growing up rather perfectly.

You can also stream these movies, series and songs onboard on Vistara World using your personal devices!

24 / / MARCH-APRIL 2021 / 25

VIST-0321-TREN-IFE_Final.indd All Pages 04/03/21 5:15 PM #TRENDINGBINGE WATCH

You can also stream these movies, series and songs onboard on Vistara World using your personal devices!

24 / / MARCH-APRIL 2021 / 25

VIST-0321-TREN-IFE_Final.indd All Pages 04/03/21 5:15 PM RIE FLYING HIGHER How Vistara has augmented its cargo operations over the last few months and played its part in fighting the pandemic.

Giving wings to our cargo operations Amid COVID-19 lockdowns and travel restrictions in 2020, there was a faint silver lining that Vistara was nimble to identify and act upon—our cargo operations. With a suspension 30,000 tonnes of cargo across India of air travel in India for two months, and beyond to London, Dhaka, etc. followed by muted demand for passenger travel, the Vistara team Transportation of was quick to pivot and focus on the COVID-19 vaccine demands of the new normal. As the country embarked on the crucial exercise of distributing Mission Lifeline Udan vaccines, Vistara was prepared to Back in April 2020, Vistara rapidly support the government in whatever stepped up its cargo operations in way it could. Mr. Vinod Kannan, Chief support of the Government of India’s Commercial O cer, Vistara, states, ‘Mission Lifeline Udan’ initiative. carry cargo. However, in July 2020, “The COVID-19 vaccine distribution Vistara deployed its newly inducted it managed to secure the necessary in India is going to be a one-of-its- Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner aircraft to permissions to carry cargo on seats kind exercise, and we’re committed carry relief material, medical supplies onboard its Airbus A320neo aircraft. to play our part in it. We have been and essential commercial goods to and Between July and August 2020, actively supporting the authorities from various parts of India. This was it carried approximately 73 tonnes to the best of our abilities in their not an easy task given that we were in of cargo, thereby utilising its spare e orts to curb the pandemic and will the middle of a nationwide lockdown. aircraft and bolstering revenue. continue to do so.” So far, Vistara has From seeking necessary permissions distributed approximately 4,25,000 from authorities to facilitating the From essentials to doses of COVID-19 vaccines. Given cargo consignments on time despite electronic goods the nature of the commodity, Vistara local travel restrictions and safety Over the last few months, the nature also ensures an expedited delivery after concerns, the team defi ed all odds to of cargo goods has diversifi ed to the arrival of the cargo. carry approximately 220 tonnes of include everything from dry fruits Cargo operations have helped in cargo, of which 25 tonnes was free of and spices to garments, and from bringing in revenue at a time when cost, comprising relief material and automobile parts to valuables. For passenger air travel was restricted. medical equipment. valuables, delivering the goods on time There were a lot of learnings with with minimal risk of loss and theft respect to scope and demand for cargo, Cargo on seats is of paramount importance. From which will hold Vistara in good stead Vistara conventionally uses the belly April 2020 till date, 64,000+ cargo for the months ahead, as it ramps up space in its passenger aircraft to fl ights have taken to air carrying about its cargo operations.

26 / / MARCH-APRIL 2021

VIST-0321-ESC-Flying higher_Final.indd 26 04/03/21 4:40 PM SUITCASE YOUR GO-TO GUIDE FOR OFFBEAT ITINERARIES

Lord’s Cricket Stadium, Galle International England Stadium, Sri Lanka Home to the game itself, Lord’s in WITNESS The ground was built in 1876 as a London has hosted historic cricket THE racecourse. Today, it is favoured by matches for two centuries. The pleasant GRANDEUR spin-bowlers and the pitch has St John’s Wood surroundings are an witnessed several iconic moments added plus, and on the morning of the over the years, such as Shane Watson’s summer’s first test match, you can feel 500th test wicket. The Indian Ocean the energy through the stadium. flanks this stadium on two sides.

Melbourne Cricket Newlands Cricket Ground, Australia Ground, South Africa Also known simply as ‘The G,’ this is This Cape Town stadium has gained a one of the largest cricket grounds in OF THE reputation for being one of the most the world. A cultural icon with 160 years beautiful places to watch cricket. The of cricket, the G has played host to GAME AT THESE action is accompanied by the distinctive countless high-profile events, including ICONIC sight of the Devil’s Peak and Table the 1956 Olympics and concerts by The PITCHES Mountains, meaning it’s a treat for the Rolling Stones and Madonna. eyes in all directions.

THE THEME PARK ROLLER-COASTER FACE-OFF Formula Rossa, Ferrari Battlestar Galactica, Resorts World, YAS Island, Abu Dhabi World Sentosa, Singapore

IS GETTING THERE EASY? *Vistara flies direct from Delhi to Dubai **Vistara flies direct from Delhi to Singapore WHY IS IT UNIQUE? This is the world’s fastest roller-coaster The world’s tallest duelling roller-coasters IS IT REALLY, REALLY SCARY? It gives you the rush of 4.8Gs, but it’s fun The dramatic drop and lift is very thrilling IF NOT THIS, THEN...? The Fiorano GT Challenge Race The Jurassic Park Rapids Adventure HOW OFTEN CAN I RIDE? Once, or more if you have the nerves Once each, on the Human and Cylon circuits

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP: Image courtesy of BRAKAK; danielcastromaia/Shutterstock; Dan Mullan/Getty Images; nattanan726/Shutterstock; Kritsana Laroque/Shutterstock; Scott Barbour/Getty Images Barbour/Getty Scott Laroque/Shutterstock; Kritsana nattanan726/Shutterstock; Images; Mullan/Getty Dan danielcastromaia/Shutterstock; BRAKAK; of courtesy Image TOP: FROM CLOCKWISE *Vistara is flying to Dubai as part of the travel bubble agreement between India and the UAE. Refer to www.airvistara.com to fully understand all guidelines before making your bookings. **Currently, Vistara does not fly to Singapore since scheduled international operations still stand suspended. / 27

VIST-0321-SUIT-OPENER.indd 27 04/03/21 5:10 PM ITE FEVER

PITCH 1 3 The ndian remier eague returns home for its th season, and hereʼs a primer of where and whom to watch out for. by CHETAN NARULA

F S S F Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Sharjah, with lands, the Indian Premier League the teams travelling via road, thus will be back home on Indian soil cutting down the need for air-travel in 2021. The BCCI has confi rmed and risk to the players and other their plans to go ahead with the personnel involved. tournament after successfully hosting For this purpose, four venues domestic and international cricket in Mumbai—the Wankhede, (against England), a test run for the the Brabourne Stadium, the DY marquee T20 event. Patil Stadium, and the Reliance The 2021 IPL auctions, held in Cricket Stadium—along with the February, have paved the way for the MCA Stadium in Pune, have been 2 league to begin in the second week earmarked. The newly-built world- THS SRD of April—a fortnight’s gap from team class stadium at Ahmedabad will . Close to Wankhede Stadium, India’s last international assignment. play host to the IPL Finals’ week. the Gateway of ndia stands tall The fi nals are expected to be played While hosting IPL in this part and proud against the iconic Ta Mahal hotel in late May or early June. With fans of India will certainly bring home WATCH . Marine Drive—lined with returning to stadiums for India advantage to fi ve-time champions, eateries—needs no introduction, versus England, there is a real Mumbai Indians, fans fl ocking back because the ʻQueenʼs Necklaceʼ OUT FOR possibility of the IPL being opened to the grounds is sure to boost the twinkles as brightly as ever; up for spectators as well. morale of all cricketers participating. . The Wankhede, home to some of THEM S R G M D P Indiaʼs most memorable triumphs, The BCCI’s plan to host the 60- From Virat Kohli to David Warner, is nestled between buildings With more than , runs The ig Show is a perennial One of last seasonʼs breakout game tournament is two-fold. If Jasprit Bumrah to Pat Cummins, . o visit to Mumbai is complete for hennai Super ings since T superstar. The year stars, and a key reason why COVID cases continue to dwindle, MS Dhoni to Ben Stokes, all of them without a stop at Horniman ircle, , he is arguably the most was a lowperforming season Royal hallengers angalore along with the frantic vaccination enjoy favour and fervour with Indian with its epansive garden and infl uential batsman in IPL for him, but his status remains progressed to the knockouts. historical buildings, including the drive, the IPL will return to its eight cricket fans. There won’t be any lphinstone uilding history. He missed the unmatched. ustralia, too, Through his freestyle hitting, host cities as usual. The other plan particular favourites, as has certainly season but will once again would want him to have a he has already gained fandom. is to create a bio-bubble comparable turned out to be the case time and feature for the yellow brigade good run in the , as he is obody wants him to be a to the one in UAE. In 2020, the again when it comes to the IPL. as CSK look to regain their crucial to their T World up one-hit wonder, and thereʼs

tournament was played across The season will lay down an /Shutterstock; Mahendra Parikh Smarta/Shutterstock; LEFT: TOP FROM CLOCKWISE Allison/Getty oe Bangalore; Challengers Royal of courtesy e/Shutterstock; Danny Kishore/Shutterstock Images; Stu Forster/Getty Images; winning ways. plans later this year. hope for an encore.

28 / / MARCH-APRIL 2021 / 29

VIST-0321-SUIT-IPL.indd 28-29 23/03/21 8:49 PM ITE FEVER

PITCH 1 3 The ndian remier eague returns home for its th season, and hereʼs a primer of where and whom to watch out for. by CHETAN NARULA

28 / / MARCH-APRIL 2021 / 29

VIST-0321-SUIT-IPL.indd 28-29 23/03/21 8:49 PM ITE THS G Ahmedabadʼs Motera Stadium is the largest cricket stadium in the world, and uite a sight with its livery

Among the venues selected, it is best placed for visiting fans in terms of connectivity and historical value. India won the 2011 ODI World Cup on this ground after a gap of 28 years. They also boast of one of the best fan groups in India, the North Stand Gang. You can ﬁ nd them hollering at—you guessed it—the important marker for a few stars. and break his duck with Royal North stand of the ground. Will Dhoni bounce back from the Challengers Bangalore? Or, will Of course, the Marine Drive is humbling last season and take Rohit Sharma make it six trophies just a stone’s throw away. If you Chennai Super Kings to the summit for the Mumbai Indians, who will be ever watch a game at this majestic once again? Is this likely to be his gunning for a hat-trick of triumphs? stadium, make it a point to take a swansong ambition? Will Kohli be A majority of the games will be stroll by the Arabian Sea and soak in able to ﬁ nally lift the IPL trophy played at the Wankhede Stadium. the warmth of the city.

I S G S H A T Mumbai Indians are the IPLʼs New kid on the block, but has The angladesh superstar That surname casts a long Galacticos. They have an array already attained star status is an allrounder and a shadow, but young run has of stars, but this keeper- through his performances in consistent performer for his forayed into this sport on batsman held his own. ut for ustralia, and been heralded country. Shakib was ranked merit. The bowling the pandemic, it would have as the future of Indian cricket. o. among the allrounders allrounder has already played been a breakthrough year for A breakout IPL season for by the ICC, thanks to his his fi rst senior matches for him in international cricket. Kolkata Knight Riders will see performance. A top pick, Mumbai, and his ourney will Si months later, he now gets Gill cement his spot across all his all-round skills are vital be keenly watched by Indian

a second chance. formats for the Men in lue. in the T arena. cricket afi cionados. Images Allen/Getty Ashley Images; Pierse/Getty Ryan Images; TrumICC/Getty arry Images; Phili Bron/Getty Phili Bron; Stadium; Motera of courtesy Image TOP: FROM CLOCKWISE

30 / / MARCH-APRIL 2021

VIST-0321-SUIT-IPL.indd 30 23/03/21 8:49 PM PROTECT THE WILD © Dr Saket Badola Saket © Dr

INDIAN STAR TORTOISE Slow-moving and benign, the Indian Star Tortoise STARS OF ILLEGAL WILDLIFE TRADE Geochelone elegans gets its name from its star- like patterns and high domed shell. It is found © TRAFFIC The Indian Star To rtoise i s reported in forests, shrublands and grasslands of India, to be the most trafficked tortoise Pakistan and Sri Lanka. The Indian Star Tortoise species in the world owing to its is a herbivore, and when found in abundance, attractive shell pattern and ease of they act as dispersal agents for various plants handling. Demand for these illegal via consumption of seeds and fruit, thus playing pets, both in India and across the a vital role in the ecosystem. borders, is one of the major drivers of poaching, smuggling and illegal trade #DYK like all tortoise species, the Indian Star of Indian Star Tortoises. Tortoise also has a long life span ranging from 35- 80 years in the wild. The female of the TRAFFIC’s study for the period 2009-2019 had found at least 1,11,310 species is larger in size than the males. tortoises and freshwater turtles in the illegal wildlife trade in India, of which Indian Star Tortoises accounted for 49% of the total animals The Indian Star Tortoise is protected under seized. Live tortoises are poached from the forest and smuggled to Schedule IV of India’s Wildlife (Protection) Act, illegal pet trade markets both in India as well as in Indonesia, Thailand, 1972 that prohibits its collection, trade and Malaysia, Singapore, Western Countries, North America and the other forms of exploitation. Any violation of the Far East. Act can lead to imprisonment, a fine or both. Its international trade is also restricted under The combined effect of habitat loss, consumption as food and CITES (Convention on International Trade in demand in exotic pet trade makes the future of Indian Star Tortoises Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora). unclear in the wild.

YOU CAN HELP! DO NOT BUY OR KEEP INDIAN STAR TORTOISES AS PETS; SUPPORT initiatives that help protect wildlife. CONTRIBUTE! Scan the QR code to know more.

TRAFFIC is a leading non-governmental organisation working globally on trade in wild animals and plants in the context of both biodiversity conservation and sustainable development.In India, it operates as a programme division of WWF-India. www.trafficindia.org ; www.wwfindia.org; www.traffic.org

WWF.indd 1 02/03/21 1:52 PM SUITCASECONSCIOUS In the Know Inspire your kids to nurture and appreciate the world around them. by GEETIKA SASAN BHANDARI

3. SUSTAINABILITY 3 At hotels, pay heed to the instructions about conserving water. Your kids should know that each time they mindlessly throw a towel for a wash, it consumes a highly precious resource. While researching properties, make kids part of the process and let them read what 1 the hotel is doing to protect the ecology around it. At restaurants, remember to WHETHER YOU LIKE IT OR NOT, 2020 Start by explaining how their day-to-day THIS SPREAD chat with your kids about how they must teach your children to take only as much has left us some invaluable lessons, choices affect the environment, the 1. An eco-conscious choice, respect these differences. Tell them a as they can eat, while explaining how cycling together is a great way to and one of them is this: The planet is in importance of the three Rs (Reduce, discover a new place; 2. As much little about the place you’re planning to wasting food impacts the community. peril and if we don’t alter our approach Reuse, Recycle), what causes air as possible, shop from local visit and give them visual references. to include awareness and compassion, pollution, and so on. You may choose retailers to help the community Explain what is acceptable and what 4. SUPPORT LOCAL thrive; 3. Teach your children that we won’t be able to enjoy it for much public transport over a private vehicle at while customs may differ, human isn’t. So no staring, no giggling if a name Be it shopping or food, try out longer. Not only do we need to change some destination or encourage walking. connections are priceless sounds funny, no pointing, and definitely restaurants run by locals. If kids protest, ourselves, we also need to inculcate this It’s a great way to discover a new place no negative references, especially in tell them they can get mass-produced consciousness in the next generation and takes care of the day’s exercise as public. However, this shouldn’t stop fast food anywhere but they won’t get of global travellers—our children. well! And most importantly, they must them from asking you something if they a chance to try this cuisine again. Shop Here’s how. respect the place by not littering. have doubts. Children are curious beings local brands so children understand and beg to be intellectually satiated. the dependency between tourism and 1. ENVIRONMENT 2. PEOPLE/CUSTOMS/CULTURES Also encourage them to wish people, the economy and why it’s important to Most children are well aware of climate All over the world, people look different, remember their manners, be kind, and support local enterprises. They can also change but may not know what role they dress different, and follow varied customs talk to people to understand what makes support causes: For example, if there’s a

can play in helping reverse the damage. and traditions. It’s imperative that you Elena Ermakova/Shutterstock; Images; Zia Soleil/Getty LEFT: FROM CLOCKWISE Images Chris Minihane/Getty us all unique. beach clean-up nearby, sign them up.

32 / / MARCH-APRIL 2021 / 33

VIST-0321-SUIT-Conscious.indd All Pages 04/03/21 5:10 PM SUITCASECONSCIOUS In the Know Inspire your kids to nurture and appreciate the world around them. by GEETIKA SASAN BHANDARI

32 / / MARCH-APRIL 2021 / 33

VIST-0321-SUIT-Conscious.indd All Pages 04/03/21 5:10 PM SUITCASEOO TRAIL

INDRE IN

EST PLACE TO TRY IT ARA C H 75/5, 56 Dukan Easy to make, this snack is made by Street, Bada Sarafa Bazaar, cutting garadu (yam) into bite-sized chunks and then deep-frying them. 8 AH AA The pieces are topped o with jiralu, These melt-in-the-mouth lentil which is a special masala mix, salt, fritters are dunked in creamy lemon and coriander. Dıshes yoghurt, and then topped with a EST PLACE TO TRY IT AT special spice mix. The best part is the Sarafa Chaupati, Bada way Joshiji prepares this dish—the Sarafa Bazaar dahi badas, quite literally, fl y. Indori fl avours. EST PLACE TO TRY IT AT AL AFLA by AAKRITI JASWANT H 24, Bada Madhya Pradesh serves its own Sarafa, Sarafa Bazar version of Rajasthan’s dal bati churma. The di erence is that the HTTE KA KEES bafl a, or the baked dough ball, is In this dish, corn is grated and then a deliciously soft and is served with the spicy mixture of ginger, green chillies hearty malwa or panchmel dal. Do A STREET FOOD LOVERʼS PARADISE, POHA-ALE and cumin seeds is added to it, along give this unique delicacy a try when Indore’s culinary scene is deeply You cannot imagine Indore without with some milk. The creamy, paste- you visit Madhya Pradesh; you won’t infl uenced by the Malwa culture. This this dish. This popular street food like consistency is the hallmark of this regret it. ancient town and now a bustling is the go-to breakfast for locals. The delicious snack. EST PLACE TO TRY IT AT large city in Madhya Pradesh never genius combination of sugar-coated EST PLACE TO TRY IT AT A S Wing 1A, Silicon City, fails to impress lovers of art, food and jalebis with savory poha is like a burst Sarafa Chaupati, Bada Tulsi Parisar Phase-1, Silver Shelter history. It o ers a unique blend of of fl avours in your mouth! Sarafa Bazaar preparations for snack-time dishes, EST PLACE TO TRY IT AT HAMA LASS and something is bound to delight P R 5/1 M.G. Road AO Ghamandi translates to egotistical your palate. Head to Sarafa Bazaar In reality, this is a clever idea to and, therefore, this curd-based to satisfy your late-night cravings, ALOO PATTES ‘Indianise’ the American hot dog. A drink’s name is amusing and curious. or organise a hangout at Chappan Many north Indian cities serve aloo banjo is basically a round sandwich Creamy and extremely refreshing, you Dukan, where you’ll be overwhelmed patties as a snack, but Indore’s khopra with distinctly Indian fl avours, a can chug down this lassi to beat the with choices. Read on to discover patties come with a dash of coconut spicy potato patty and green chutney. summer heat. some of the most famous dishes this and dry fruits added to the potato EST PLACE TO TRY IT AT EST PLACE TO TRY IT AT vibrant city has to o er, and where mixture, and served with tamarind H Shop 49-51, Arcade L 47,48,49 Sarwate

you can try them. and green chutney. Sweet and spicy! uneetnanan/Shutterstock StockImageFactorycom/Shutterstock; ug/Shutterstock; Image oacker/Shutterstock; rent vm/Shutterstock; Saiko/Shutterstock; LEFT: TO FROM CLOCKWISE Silver 56/1, New Palasia Bus Stand

34 / / MARCH-APRIL 2021 / 35

VIST-0321-SUIT-8 Dishes.indd All Pages 04/03/21 5:08 PM SUITCASEOO TRAIL

INDRE IN

34 / / MARCH-APRIL 2021 / 35

VIST-0321-SUIT-8 Dishes.indd All Pages 04/03/21 5:08 PM SUITCASETHRILLS DELLA ADVENTURE PARK Lonavala, Maharashtra, India One of the biggest extreme adventure parks in India, The Big Fat Family Holiday Della is the go-to spot for families looking for an Handpicked for your next family vacation, these resorts double the fun with amusement parks. exciting weekend getaway. by AMEESHA RAIZADA With over 50 sports and HOTEL XCARET MEXICO rides to choose from— Playa del Carmen, Mexico flying fox, all-terrain This impressive property will appeal vehicle (ATV) rides, rocket to families, couples and solo travellers ejectors, sky cycling, alike. You get free access to some great paintball, swoop swing, amusement and adventure parks, and many more—you including the Xcaret eco-park. Here, further by touring ancient Mayan have plenty of options to you can swim in underground rivers sites nearby, which are like a journey get that rush. Book one or venture into the jungle and observe into the past. In the evening, head to of the Presidential Suites local fauna up close. This could be a the Gran Tlachco to see the Xcaret for a luxe twist, but if your great learning experience for children México Espectacular—a musical group is large, choose the to understand the importance of tribute to Mexican culture. Enclave Villa. The five conservation. Take the teaching a step xcaret.com restaurants on site, in settings that range from casual to spectacular, offer good culinary experiences. dellaadventure.com RESORTS WORLD SENTOSA on a boat ride, snorkel or navigate an Sentosa Gateway, Singapore aquatic maze, all the while creating An expansive resort for the entire unforgettable memories. But you family, this has everything from an must mark a day on your itinerary COCONUT BAY BEACH aquatic wonderland to Universal for a silver-screen adventure, because RESORT & SPA Studios’ movie-themed zones. The you’ll be thrilled to meet beloved St. Lucia S.E.A. Aquarium is home to over comic characters like the Minions, Located on a brilliant beach—with DYREHAVSBAKKEN 1,00,000 marine animals, including Shrek and Elmo. Fancy a bit of crystal clear waters, pristine sand and Klampenborg, Denmark leopard sharks, manta rays and giant adrenaline pumping? Try the iconic palm trees swaying lazily—this resort Surrounded by lush woodlands on all sides, Pacific octopuses. At the Marine Life Battlestar Galactica roller-coaster. in the Caribbean Sea is perfect for a Bakken or ‘The Hill’, is the world’s oldest Park, you can spend the afternoon rwsentosa.com family getaway. The resort is divided amusement park. An ideal summertime escape, into two parts: ‘Splash’ for families and you’ll be overwhelmed by the sheer number ‘Harmony’ for adults. So, you can choose of rides here, which includes an 82-year-old a spa session, or hit the waterslides and wooden roller-coaster. The shooting stalls and splash around with your kids. A short gaming arcades add to the fun, making it apt distance away, the Gros Piton and Petit for all ages. Skipping happily through aisles Piton mountains offer some climbing and lined with colourful wooden structures, Danish rewarding views, or you can snorkel at kitchens, ice-cream stalls and much more, you : Image courtesy of Coconut Bay Beach Resort & Spa; Images courtesy of Dyrehavsbakken; Images courtesy of Hotel Xcaret Mexico; Image courtesy of Della Adventure Park; tristan tan/Shutterstock tristan Park; Adventure Della of courtesy Image Mexico; Xcaret Hotel of courtesy Images Dyrehavsbakken; of courtesy Images & Spa; Resort Beach Bay Coconut of courtesy : Image Pigeon Island. Don’t forget to visit the La and your loved ones can shop and eat to your Soufrière sulphur springs, which is also heart’s content. Don’t forget to meet Pjerrot— the world’s only drive-in volcano. Bakken’s white-faced clown mascot.

cbayresort.com bakken.dk LEFT FROM CLOCKWISE

36 / / MARCH-APRIL 2021 * Owing to COVID-19, there may be travel restrictions to certain countries. / 37 Refer to the latest guidelines before making your travel plans.

VIST-0321-SUIT-Radiate.indd 36-37 04/03/21 5:11 PM SUITCASETHRILLS DELLA ADVENTURE PARK Lonavala, Maharashtra, India One of the biggest extreme adventure parks in India, The Big Fat Family Holiday Della is the go-to spot for families looking for an Handpicked for your next family vacation, these resorts double the fun with amusement parks. exciting weekend getaway. by AMEESHA RAIZADA With over 50 sports and HOTEL XCARET MEXICO rides to choose from— Playa del Carmen, Mexico flying fox, all-terrain This impressive property will appeal vehicle (ATV) rides, rocket to families, couples and solo travellers ejectors, sky cycling, alike. You get free access to some great paintball, swoop swing, amusement and adventure parks, and many more—you including the Xcaret eco-park. Here, further by touring ancient Mayan have plenty of options to you can swim in underground rivers sites nearby, which are like a journey get that rush. Book one or venture into the jungle and observe into the past. In the evening, head to of the Presidential Suites local fauna up close. This could be a the Gran Tlachco to see the Xcaret for a luxe twist, but if your great learning experience for children México Espectacular—a musical group is large, choose the to understand the importance of tribute to Mexican culture. Enclave Villa. The five conservation. Take the teaching a step xcaret.com restaurants on site, in settings that range from casual to spectacular, offer good culinary experiences. dellaadventure.com RESORTS WORLD SENTOSA on a boat ride, snorkel or navigate an Sentosa Gateway, Singapore aquatic maze, all the while creating An expansive resort for the entire unforgettable memories. But you family, this has everything from an must mark a day on your itinerary COCONUT BAY BEACH aquatic wonderland to Universal for a silver-screen adventure, because RESORT & SPA Studios’ movie-themed zones. The you’ll be thrilled to meet beloved St. Lucia S.E.A. Aquarium is home to over comic characters like the Minions, Located on a brilliant beach—with DYREHAVSBAKKEN 1,00,000 marine animals, including Shrek and Elmo. Fancy a bit of crystal clear waters, pristine sand and Klampenborg, Denmark leopard sharks, manta rays and giant adrenaline pumping? Try the iconic palm trees swaying lazily—this resort Surrounded by lush woodlands on all sides, Pacific octopuses. At the Marine Life Battlestar Galactica roller-coaster. in the Caribbean Sea is perfect for a Bakken or ‘The Hill’, is the world’s oldest Park, you can spend the afternoon rwsentosa.com family getaway. The resort is divided amusement park. An ideal summertime escape, into two parts: ‘Splash’ for families and you’ll be overwhelmed by the sheer number ‘Harmony’ for adults. So, you can choose of rides here, which includes an 82-year-old a spa session, or hit the waterslides and wooden roller-coaster. The shooting stalls and splash around with your kids. A short gaming arcades add to the fun, making it apt distance away, the Gros Piton and Petit for all ages. Skipping happily through aisles Piton mountains offer some climbing and lined with colourful wooden structures, Danish rewarding views, or you can snorkel at kitchens, ice-cream stalls and much more, you : Image courtesy of Coconut Bay Beach Resort & Spa; Images courtesy of Dyrehavsbakken; Images courtesy of Hotel Xcaret Mexico; Image courtesy of Della Adventure Park; tristan tan/Shutterstock tristan Park; Adventure Della of courtesy Image Mexico; Xcaret Hotel of courtesy Images Dyrehavsbakken; of courtesy Images & Spa; Resort Beach Bay Coconut of courtesy : Image Pigeon Island. Don’t forget to visit the La and your loved ones can shop and eat to your Soufrière sulphur springs, which is also heart’s content. Don’t forget to meet Pjerrot— the world’s only drive-in volcano. Bakken’s white-faced clown mascot.

cbayresort.com bakken.dk LEFT FROM CLOCKWISE

36 / / MARCH-APRIL 2021 * Owing to COVID-19, there may be travel restrictions to certain countries. / 37 Refer to the latest guidelines before making your travel plans.

VIST-0321-SUIT-Radiate.indd 36-37 04/03/21 5:11 PM SUITCASETHRILLS

YAS ISLAND the Arabian Gulf. Care for some Abu Dhabi, UAE goosebumps? Take a seat on Formula When travelling with family, it’s Rossa, the fastest roller-coaster on the important to weigh in on everyone’s planet at Ferrari World. If that’s not preferences. You may be looking enough, head to CLYMB, which offers for a laidback vacation, while the indoor skydiving and climbing. The younger lot wants adventure. But, good thing about this complex is its worry not, YAS Island has it all. You combination of rides, performances can indulge in luxury at the W Abu and indulgent luxury—there’s always Dhabi, or book a suite at The Viceroy, something to do. a stunning property that overlooks yasisland.ae

DISNEY’S ART OF ANIMATION RESORT Orlando, Florida, USA Are your children Disney lovers? This resort will be their dream come true with its storybook landscapes, story- themed family suites and character experiences. The best part? Your pooch is also welcome at this resort! You can take the gondola and ascend to the Epcot and Hollywood Studios, while enjoying a bird’s-eye view of the city. During the day, spend a couple of hours wading through the massive resort pool, or head to the water park’s slides and rides. For dining, make your way to the Landscape of Flavors and try delectable American favourites. A must-try? Sign up for : SimonPRBenson/Shutterstock; Image courtesy of Yas island; Images courtesy of Disney’s Art of Animation Resort Art of Disney’s of courtesy island; Images Yas of courtesy Image : SimonPRBenson/Shutterstock; the Starlight Safari and witness the wilderness come to life, rumbling through an exotic landscape.

disneyworld.disney.go.com LEFT FROM CLOCKWISE

38 / / MARCH-APRIL 2021

VIST-0321-SUIT-Radiate.indd 38 04/03/21 5:11 PM ESCAPE CHRONICLES OF IMMERSIVE EXPERIENCES

THE UNDERWATER WONDERS These are the best snorkelling and diving sites in The Maldives.

Bathala Island, Ari Atoll With a stunning variety of marine life, the snorkelling experience here will leave you awestruck.

Baa Atoll An excellent location to spot manta rays and hawksbill sea turtles.

Addu Atoll With dolphins, calm waters and surreal reefs, this is a spot like no other.

Whale Shark Point, Ari Atoll Swim with the whale sharks that populate these waters. FROM TOP: btrenkelr/Getty Images; Oksana Stock/Shutterstock; Kristina Vackova/Shutterstock; haveseen/Shutterstock; Krzysztof Odziomek/Shutterstock Krzysztof haveseen/Shutterstock; Vackova/Shutterstock; Kristina Stock/Shutterstock; Oksana Images; btrenkelr/Getty TOP: FROM

/ 39

VIST-0321-ESC-OPENER.indd 39 04/03/21 4:46 PM ESCAPECOVER STORY

THE Island Life IS FOR Everyone Have you also tagged the Maldives as a honeymoon destination? Read on to discover the treasures it holds for families and friends looking to reconnect. by AAD AR mbbirdy/Getty Images mbbirdy/Getty

40 / / MARCH-APRIL 2021 / 41

VIST-0321-ESC-Maldives.indd 40-41 05/03/21 11:57 AM ESCAPECOVER STORY

40 / / MARCH-APRIL 2021 / 41

VIST-0321-ESC-Maldives.indd 40-41 05/03/21 11:57 AM ESCAPECOVER STORY

TRAVEL GUIDE The best of the Maldives for families and friends, alike

WHAT 2020 TAUGHT ME WAS HOW The key thing for any city-lover precious our memories are. Curfews visiting an island is to learn to let go. and quarantines meant that all And this becomes clear the moment Luxe Stay we had were memories of bygone you arrive at Kunfunadhoo—they Taj Exotica Resort & Spa experiences. Lockdowns meant you ask you to leave your shoes at the in Emboodhu Finolhu is either fell in love with your family jetty and continue barefoot. There stunning and tranquil. again, or were driven up a wall. is something truly liberating and Regardless, an escape was crucial— poignant about walking barefoot to create new memories and to on the sand. And leaving transient reinforce the newfound love, or to footprints behind that only remain in reignite it. your memory. Thus, our destination choices The resorts in the Maldives link 1 broadly fell into three categories: the closely to nature and are designed 3 city, the mountains or the beach. to holistically and sensitively pare Brilliant Sunset For me, unlike my family, the back any distractions, allowing you The southern Laamu Atoll value of sitting on a beach baking in to focus on your family. A simple offers a million colours as the sun to get a tan wasn’t all that bike ride becomes an adventure and the sun goes down. apparent. Why would anyone want reignites childhood wonder—it’s easy to do that? But, clearly out-voted, the to slip into Johann David Wyss’ Swiss beach we selected. Family Robinson mode—especially The Maldives was chosen—a with the ingenuity of the architecture. strange choice because, to me, it was Sitting as a family under the stars more of a honeymoon destination, and watching a film turns magical not a location for families. After and really brings home the saying, all, I thought, how would you “travelling in the company of those Big Adventure entertain teenage kids for days on a we love, is a home in motion.” Go diving in Banana Reef, deserted island. And, I have to say, There’s also a certain irony in 2 North Malé Atolls—it offers I suspect the Maldives was chosen sitting under the galaxies and having 1. With its diverse marine a bit of everything. so I wouldn’t be able to subject a full-blown observatory at your life, the Maldives offers a the family to endless rounds of art disposal. While the telescope brings truly unique snorkelling galleries and museums. you closer, there is something truly experience; 2. A cocktail on the The Maldives sits on the equator awe-inspiring about seeing the Milky beach is a great way and is made up of around 1,190 Way with your naked eye, scattered so to leave the city far, coral islands and, before I visited, I clearly above you. This image remains far behind; 3. Maldivian sunsets couldn’t think of anything worse than imprinted in my mind to this day. are picturesque being stranded on a spit of sand. But Arriving at the island of Randheli beyond belief... Culinary Experience I was given the luxury of choosing is slightly nerve-racking. On first Undersea dining at the 5.8 our resort, so I chose two contrasting sight, it seems too luxurious to be on restaurant, at the Hurawalhi properties. One, on the islands of a remote island, but it unfolds around Island Resort. Kunfunadhoo and Medhufaru, and you slowly. Almost like a perfume

the other, on the island of Randheli. enveloping your mind. of courtesy image Denis Moskvinov/Shutterstock; TOP: FROM CLOCKWISE & Spa; Resort Exotica Taj of courtesy image Island Resort; Hurawalhi Images/Getty Cavan S.Borisov/Shutterstock; Lotus_studio/Shutterstock; NadyaEugene/Shutterstock Images;

42 / / MARCH-APRIL 2021 / 43

VIST-0321-ESC-Maldives.indd 42-43 05/03/21 11:57 AM ESCAPECOVER STORY

TRAVEL GUIDE The best of the Maldives for families and friends, alike

42 / / MARCH-APRIL 2021 / 43

VIST-0321-ESC-Maldives.indd 42-43 05/03/21 11:57 AM ESCAPECOVER STORY

4 5 Every resort in the Maldives has because it was safe. Their time away its own character. The Cheval Blanc allowed them to bond in a way Randheli by French luxury giant other destinations didn’t. The fact LVMH, for instance, is like a living that it was only a two-hour flight art gallery. Since many of our fondest from Mumbai made it the perfect memories are traipsing around girls’ getaway. They excitedly museums in London, New York and exclaimed how they got spas Rome, we can’t forget the pop art together, went on fishing expeditions French Bulldog framed by antique and spent nights on the beach with a pottery in the middle of the Maldives. bonfire and wine. No matter which island you pick, With the onset of COVID-19, short- to medium-distance trips properties in the Maldives run a 4. With such beauty and by private boat will bring you to an strict entry policy and many insist so many things to do, the experience of a lifetime. Equipped that you are tested before, during Maldives is a great spot with a special blue LED-filtered light and on departing their properties. for a family vacation; 5. Dining on the water— and yellow-filtered mask, you can go These resorts actively encourage small or under the sea— snorkelling at night, avec la famille. groups and family units to create will leave you with Marine life magically illuminates, memories. This presence of small everlasting memories darting back and forth, merely units ensures that a bond built on fingertips away. Truly a memory even sun-kissed aquamarine memories blasé teens can’t forget. becomes a family story. Sure, the Maldives is often seen In fact, leaving the Maldives was as an intimate getaway, but it is an like leaving a dear friend—bittersweet. attractive destination for groups of It is an experience that changes you friends looking to reconnect. During forever and creates memories for a our stay and at one of the mixers lifetime... because sometimes you the resorts hold, we met a group of don’t know the value of a moment

ladies who had chosen the Maldives until it becomes a memory. Popova/Shutterstock Tatiana Cade/Shutterstock; Peter TOP: FROM

44 / / MARCH-APRIL 2021

VIST-0321-ESC-Maldives.indd 44 05/03/21 11:57 AM

ESCAPEE

Itʼs time to go off the beaten track for your next family (or friends like family) trip and truly enjoy that refreshing break youʼve been yearning for. by EEIA SASA HADARI One for the Memory Books OTHG AOUT THS EA O EE the experience was nevertheless photograph could do it justice! But wooden luxury cruise boat docked THIS SPREAD, CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT this time, is regular. So, why should etched in our memories forever. even more magical than the ocean in the middle of the bay, surrounded As tourists watch on, African your holiday be? Instead of done In our two days, we also spotted a was the experience of getting onto by unique, green limestone islands elephants make their way across and dusted suggestions, I hope my leopard who had dragged its kill up a speedboat early morning from whose dense forest cover made the the savannah; Halong Bay, where green islands travel guide will inspire you to plan a tree to evade other predators, a Nungwi beach to go to Mnemba water appear emerald. We went dot the sea; something truly di erent with your pride of 17 lions, and more gira es, Atoll to snorkel and discovering that canoeing—great fun even for kids— Dolphins for company in Zanzibar; loved ones. These trips will appeal elephants, zebras, ostriches, hyenas, we had a pod of bottlenose dolphins and during the nightly squid ﬁ shing, Baliʼs beaches, viewed from the air as you parasail; to people of all ages, and will create gazelles, impalas, and wildebeests for company! We watched the sun my elder daughter caught one and it For children, snorkelling is an memories for a lifetime. than we could count. Our days were setting while on a dhow, enjoyed a promptly released its famous black unforgettable experience devoted to safaris and the evenings luxurious meal at Z hotel’s al fresco ink. The chef taught us how to roll Bask in the wilderness of would end with Masai tribesmen restaurant Saruche and said hello to the perfect Vietnamese spring roll too. Masai Mara, Kenya enthralling us with stories about their an almost 200-year-old giant turtle in We visited Hang Sung Sot, one of the It was 9:30 am. We had just set o culture and rituals. The highlight— Prison Island. If you have time, take largest caves, with clever lighting to for our safari, and within minutes, our all-day safari to the Mara river, a walking trip around Stone Town for highlight the massive stalactites and spotted a cheetah, its gaze on a sole where two groups of hippos got into a some history. Also, Freddy Mercury stalagmites. Our nights were spent on antelope in the distance. Our guide ﬁ ght, baring their frighteningly huge was born here—his house is now a the deck mesmerised by the natural switched o the engine, and we teeth! Animals apart, just the stillness museum that you can visit. beauty surrounding us. sat quietly, with bated breath, as it and expanse of the golden savannahs crossed over right in front of us and made the trip unforgettable. Take an overnight cruise at Parasail in Bali, Indonesia then picked up pace to attack. But Halong Bay, Vietnam As we were lifted o the boat, soaring just before it could reach, the antelope Snorkel with dolphins in A UNESCO World Heritage site, like seagulls, taking in the tranquil sensed the imminent danger and Zanzibar, Tanzania Halong Bay (a three-hour drive from blue of the vast ocean beneath, bounded away. While witnessing a kill The Indian Ocean looked straight Hanoi), is an unreal experience. time went into slow-mo. The initial

would have given us bragging points, out of a Pantone colour card and no Tonkin/Shutterstock; uan oc uen ovikov/Shutterstock; Sere FT: TOP FROM COCS vetisan/Shutterstock rte Situ upta/Shutterstock; oerensen/Shutterstock; ersti We spent the night in an old-style thrill was replaced by a quietude—a

46 / / MARCH-APRIL 2021 / 47

VIST-0321-ESC-Cover Story.indd 46-47 05/03/21 11:53 AM ESCAPEE

46 / / MARCH-APRIL 2021 / 47

VIST-0321-ESC-Cover Story.indd 46-47 05/03/21 11:53 AM ESCAPEE

These trips will appeal to people of all ages, and will create memories for

a lifetime. relaxing silence powerful enough to next restaurant—also on stilts—and mighty Teesta river in its full glory. A with friends that doesn’t require too make even a fi ve-year-old speechless. had one of the most fl avourful meals, trip to Darjeeling was magical—the much planning and travel, Landour We took a glass-bottomed boat to with watercress and fresh seafood. mist literally kissed our car windows is perfect. Turtle Island, to see not just tiny We visited Inn Thein, home to 16th as we wound our way from Kurseong. baby turtles but larger, rather heavy century pagodas, some in ruin and We couldn’t hop on to the Toy Train Spot the white tiger in ones, a super scary and humongous others well preserved. The ride itself (a UNESCO World Heritage Site), Bannerghatta, Bengaluru python, and several exotic birds and was marvellous; the lake bifurcated but it’s an experience worth pencilling While the metro city has its woes— animals. A memorable dinner was into a stream taking us through into your itinerary. tra c sitting right on top of that list— had on Jimbaran beach, crowded muddy swamps, meandering through Bengaluru o ers a lot of fun-fi lled with tables stretching far and wide, the villages of the unsuspecting Intha Revel in nature at Landour, family activities that you’ve probably it was eerie to not be able to see the folk, and making us go over stones Uttarakhand never experienced. The Bannerghatta ocean but to just hear its mighty roar and trees while we screamed in glee! It’s hard to believe that the bustling Biological Park was one such every other minute. The kids enjoyed and often chaotic hill-station of attraction—we took the safari and saw picking their dinner from large tanks Soak in vintage luxury Mussoorie is just a stone’s throw lions, tigers, and even the white tiger fi lled with catfi sh, prawns, lobsters, on a tea garden in Dooars, away. Landour, a cantonment (now made famous thanks to the fi lm) kingfi sh, and the like. West Bengal town named after a Welsh village, in a large, controlled natural habitat. It was a treat to go to the roots of in comparison, was utterly serene, That done, we went on to have one Experience the simple life on the daily cuppa we take for granted untouched and beautiful. With a clear of our most memorable meals, at the Inle Lake, Myanmar and live in a tea garden resort with view of the Himalayas all around, three-decade-old Nagarjuna, where THIS SPREAD, CLOCKWISE It was an eye-opener to see that nothing but sprawling tea bushes for our only agenda was to take long we tried native Andhra cuisine on FROM ABOVE Entire villages thrive on Inle Lake, even today there are communities miles around. Living in a bungalow walks on pine-lined paths, making plantain leaves (the mutton roast channelling the knowledge of that live on a lake, boats being their with liveried sta was the stu dreams pit stops at famous nooks like Maggi and the prawn pepper fry still linger on-water living for generations; only mode of transportation and are made of, and we got a peek into Point. Dinner at Rokeby Manor in our tastebuds and our memories). The tea estates of Dooars are like a carpet of green; link to the world. All houses on Inle, what life was like for tea planters in a was a gorgeous experience; our al One day, we made for the closest The rare white tiger is a major Myanmar’s second largest natural lake bygone era. We went for long walks, fresco table gave us a clear view of MTR (Mavalli Ti n Room), eager attraction of Bannerghatta (22-km long) were on stilts, and all our lungs soaking in the oxygen, and the Doon valley, twinkling like a to try the mouth-watering local fare Biological Park; Landour is idyllic and serene, great the 17-odd villages were small-scale took a trip to the Gorumara National million stars below us. We spent the that runs out by 10:30 am. We also for a relaxed family holiday; industries—we saw a lady spin silk Park (less famous than Kaziranga but evening listening to stories about drove to Wonderla Amusement Park, A family of Intha fishermen end from lotus fl owers to later be crafted with its own population of the fast- haunted properties close by, the crisp outside the city, with some of the best their day on the water; Plucking tea leaves is a delicate art into scarves. When we felt hungry, we declining one-horned rhino), had a air lending just the adequate air of maintained land and water rides

and needs a deft hand directed our boatsman to stop at the picnic on the Diana river and saw the Sunai Paiankar; aneree/Shutterstock; Saande Senupta/Shutterstock; Titas avaran/Shutterstock; FT: TOP FROM COCS Sonath Mahata/Shutterstock Tipchai/Shutterstock; Sasin mystery. For a rejuvenating holiday we’ve seen.

48 / / MARCH-APRIL 2021 / 49

VIST-0321-ESC-Cover Story.indd 48-49 05/03/21 11:54 AM ESCAPEE

These trips will appeal to people of all ages, and will create memories for a lifetime. relaxing silence powerful enough to next restaurant—also on stilts—and mighty Teesta river in its full glory. A with friends that doesn’t require too make even a fi ve-year-old speechless. had one of the most fl avourful meals, trip to Darjeeling was magical—the much planning and travel, Landour We took a glass-bottomed boat to with watercress and fresh seafood. mist literally kissed our car windows is perfect. Turtle Island, to see not just tiny We visited Inn Thein, home to 16th as we wound our way from Kurseong. baby turtles but larger, rather heavy century pagodas, some in ruin and We couldn’t hop on to the Toy Train Spot the white tiger in ones, a super scary and humongous others well preserved. The ride itself (a UNESCO World Heritage Site), Bannerghatta, Bengaluru python, and several exotic birds and was marvellous; the lake bifurcated but it’s an experience worth pencilling While the metro city has its woes— animals. A memorable dinner was into a stream taking us through into your itinerary. tra c sitting right on top of that list— had on Jimbaran beach, crowded muddy swamps, meandering through Bengaluru o ers a lot of fun-fi lled with tables stretching far and wide, the villages of the unsuspecting Intha Revel in nature at Landour, family activities that you’ve probably it was eerie to not be able to see the folk, and making us go over stones Uttarakhand never experienced. The Bannerghatta ocean but to just hear its mighty roar and trees while we screamed in glee! It’s hard to believe that the bustling Biological Park was one such every other minute. The kids enjoyed and often chaotic hill-station of attraction—we took the safari and saw picking their dinner from large tanks Soak in vintage luxury Mussoorie is just a stone’s throw lions, tigers, and even the white tiger fi lled with catfi sh, prawns, lobsters, on a tea garden in Dooars, away. Landour, a cantonment (now made famous thanks to the fi lm) kingfi sh, and the like. West Bengal town named after a Welsh village, in a large, controlled natural habitat. It was a treat to go to the roots of in comparison, was utterly serene, That done, we went on to have one Experience the simple life on the daily cuppa we take for granted untouched and beautiful. With a clear of our most memorable meals, at the Inle Lake, Myanmar and live in a tea garden resort with view of the Himalayas all around, three-decade-old Nagarjuna, where THIS SPREAD, CLOCKWISE It was an eye-opener to see that nothing but sprawling tea bushes for our only agenda was to take long we tried native Andhra cuisine on FROM ABOVE Entire villages thrive on Inle Lake, even today there are communities miles around. Living in a bungalow walks on pine-lined paths, making plantain leaves (the mutton roast channelling the knowledge of that live on a lake, boats being their with liveried sta was the stu dreams pit stops at famous nooks like Maggi and the prawn pepper fry still linger on-water living for generations; only mode of transportation and are made of, and we got a peek into Point. Dinner at Rokeby Manor in our tastebuds and our memories). The tea estates of Dooars are like a carpet of green; link to the world. All houses on Inle, what life was like for tea planters in a was a gorgeous experience; our al One day, we made for the closest The rare white tiger is a major Myanmar’s second largest natural lake bygone era. We went for long walks, fresco table gave us a clear view of MTR (Mavalli Ti n Room), eager attraction of Bannerghatta (22-km long) were on stilts, and all our lungs soaking in the oxygen, and the Doon valley, twinkling like a to try the mouth-watering local fare Biological Park; Landour is idyllic and serene, great the 17-odd villages were small-scale took a trip to the Gorumara National million stars below us. We spent the that runs out by 10:30 am. We also for a relaxed family holiday; industries—we saw a lady spin silk Park (less famous than Kaziranga but evening listening to stories about drove to Wonderla Amusement Park, A family of Intha fishermen end from lotus fl owers to later be crafted with its own population of the fast- haunted properties close by, the crisp outside the city, with some of the best their day on the water; Plucking tea leaves is a delicate art into scarves. When we felt hungry, we declining one-horned rhino), had a air lending just the adequate air of maintained land and water rides and needs a deft hand directed our boatsman to stop at the picnic on the Diana river and saw the Sunai Paiankar; aneree/Shutterstock; Saande Senupta/Shutterstock; Titas avaran/Shutterstock; FT: TOP FROM COCS Sonath Mahata/Shutterstock Tipchai/Shutterstock; Sasin mystery. For a rejuvenating holiday we’ve seen.

48 / / MARCH-APRIL 2021 / 49

VIST-0321-ESC-Cover Story.indd 48-49 05/03/21 11:54 AM ESCAPEBEAT WITH FRIENDS, OLD & NEW

A trip into the jungle is one of the best ways to reinforce old bonds and make some new ones, while exploring the thrilling elements of the dense landscape. by JAPLEEN KAUR

A BEVY OF DEER RAN IN A SYNCHRONISED manner about 100 metres from our jeep. The five of us and our guide held our breath and sat up straight, waiting in anticipation. In a matter of seconds, they all disappeared, and a rather ferocious-looking animal entered the scene. Now, I know what image is brewing in your mind but hold that thought. The wild dog was on his daily hunt, and we caught him in action. Trust me, not all dogs are cute! Nestled in the heart of our country—a site that doesn’t take a lot for you to leave your heart here—Kanha National Park is the largest tiger reserve in Madhya Pradesh. The lush green landscape, the pleasant chill in the air, the occasional mating calls of the many birds and mammal sightings will ensure your jaw makes a home there, too. And what made this Herds of deer bring experience one to remember was the fact that I the grasslands of

was with four of my closest friends on this trip. EcoPrints/Shutterstock Kanha to life

50 / / MARCH-APRIL 2021 / 51

VIST-0321-ESC-Kanha.indd 50-51 04/03/21 4:46 PM ESCAPEBEAT WITH FRIENDS, OLD & NEW

A trip into the jungle is one of the best ways to reinforce old bonds and make some new ones, while exploring the thrilling elements of the dense landscape. by JAPLEEN KAUR

50 / / MARCH-APRIL 2021 / 51

VIST-0321-ESC-Kanha.indd 50-51 04/03/21 4:46 PM ESCAPEBEAT 4

This was the quintessential girl lucky enough to meet the tiger or gang that ditched the sun and sand the barasingha (swamp deer), the of Goa to venture into the jungles. famous duo of the jungle. While it’s A ﬂ ight to Jabalpur and a cab ride impossible not to spot them at least to Kanha later, we were at our once, we’d made it quite attainable. resort. The single-point agenda? A On our last evening safari rendezvous with nature. attempt though, we were determined Surprisingly, all of us would wake to kidnap Lady Luck if needed. up at the crack of dawn without any Santosh, our guide, took us to an external intervention! But the hot isolated area deep inside the zone, cups of coff ee amidst gigantic wild assuring us that there were calls THIS SPREAD trees defi nitely helped. Morning of the tiger echoing in the jungle. A gawk-worthy sighting of the safaris start at around 6:15 am, tiger is a moment you and your We sat there, hearing his stories of depending on the season. Defi nitely friends will cherish forever; tigers preying, drinking water from carry a jacket or a shawl as the The kingfigher darts in and out the Banjar River and protecting of sight like a bullet; temperature drops at this hour until their cubs. If I had to take back a At sunrise, Kanha presents a 5 the sun starts to shine brightly. fairytale-like setting; moment from this trip, this would Comfortable shoes, cargo pants, a The iconic barasingha; be it. Everyone engrossed in stories, hat, loads of sunscreen Wild dogs, often mistaken for listening to each word attentively, and some cool shades should be your jackals, are also serious hunters; phones kept aside and creating a go-to attire when on a safari. Even Langurs are prolific, curious memory to be narrated later. residents of Kanha though you never get down from the About an hour later, we saw jeep barring the time you stop Link 7, aka Chhota Munna, making to feast on some snacks, it’s advisable its way towards us. The beautiful to wear clothes that’ll help you run tiger made our hearts skip a beat. It for your life if and when a tiger walked past us after the longest fi ve attacks. Hmm, it doesn’t hurt to minutes of our lives, and we fi nally have an imagination! breathed a sigh of relief. We trailed Every safari trip starts with an behind Linku, as the forest offi cials orientation session that prepares you call him, before turning back. Once for the kind of visuals you’ll witness he was out of our sight, we squealed as you take on this wild journey. playing gleefully, woodpeckers hard and cried tears of joy. If satisfaction The 7:00 am breeze is something at work, and even a white-breasted had a face, we would have been its that I’d like to experience every kingfi sher that looked every bit royal. poster child right there and then! couple of weeks just to rejuvenate, While I describe this with utmost We decided to go back for the and escape the mind-numbing reality grace, here’s something you should barasingha but mostly to interact of urban living. As the camouﬂ age- know—I have a serious bird phobia STA HERE with Sal trees, converse with the coloured jeep entered the core zone and had my nails dug into my friend Sambar deer, watch the grasslands from the Mukki gate, the group Deepti’s arm for most of the safari. put up a show and to rekindle our automatically turned silent. The Jokes apart, fi nd a friend who sits friendship and the one we have with magnifi cence of the situation that through this torture willingly. the forest. If you haven’t already, we were in, required no words, but Over the next couple of days, we Along the river, the lodge Near Mukki, this has A rustic and beautiful go to Kanha to not only befriend instead demanded complete and saw a plethora of langurs, wild dogs has luxury tents and fantastic wildlife views space, Tuli off ers a great the elements of nature, but to also undivided attention. Soon, we made and pigs, a couple of jackals and excellent local cuisine. and comfy cottages. safari adventure. experience priceless moments

multiple tiny halts to spot parakeets even a sloth bear. But we weren’t PhotocechCZ/Shutterstock; Bogaard/Shutterstock; Henk LEFT: FROM CLOCKWISE of courtesy image Resort; Tiger Tuli of courtesy image Nina Sandstrom/Shutterstock; Hromada/Shutterstock; William Ian Safari; Taj of courtesy image Vilas; Camp Dev Pursche/Shutterstock Torsten Pilankar/Shutterstock; Yogesh together with your friends.

52 / / MARCH-APRIL 2021 / 53

VIST-0321-ESC-Kanha.indd 52-53 04/03/21 4:46 PM ESCAPEBEAT 4

52 / / MARCH-APRIL 2021 / 53

VIST-0321-ESC-Kanha.indd 52-53 04/03/21 4:46 PM ESCAPESOUL

The Enchanted Captivating landscapes, distinct wildlife, weaving traditions, exquisite silks, you name it... just outside Land Guwahati, unique offerings will immerse you in their charm. by SATARUPA PAUL

HE DAY BEGINS EARLY IN THESE We had sampled a slice of it in unique appeal that we find ourselves thanks to the Pobitora Wildlife THIS SPREAD parts. It’s barely 8:00 am, and the sun Guwahati—the unofficial state at that riverside pit stop one early Sanctuary on whose periphery it lies. The Brahmaputra, and the city have already been up and capital, the largest city in the region morning, polishing off the delicious The village itself is spotlessly clean whether viewed from about for several hours. We sit at a and the gateway to the northeast. At breakfast before hitting the road for and absolutely mesmerising—narrow Guwahati or Mayong (above) presents an riverside eatery, ravenously attacking its crux, it’s like any other burgeoning the village of Mayong. lanes wind through lush fields of incredible sight, and you piping hot plates of luchi (puri) and metropolis, but beyond the inevitable Just about an hour’s drive paddy and mustard, coconut and begin to understand how ghugni (chole), washing it all down development, the city is a total from Guwahati, Mayong was once areca palm trees sway hypnotically, rivers have the power to carve landscapes with steaming cups of Assam tea, and charmer—a lovely landscape of rolling infamous for being a centre for black fishermen cast their nets in twinkling pausing only to admire the mighty hills, dense forests and one of the magic. Its residents traditionally ponds, and smiling faces poke out Brahmaputra flowing by. The river world’s largest rivers flowing through. practised sorcery and magic, and tales to wave at you from cute Assam- is a sight to behold. Its expanse is It has beautiful riverside promenades about men disappearing into thin air style houses with sloping roofs and seemingly as vast as the sea with fast lined by quaint cafés, temples and or being turned into animals are quite timbered frames. One might be and furious water currents, even as its museums displaying age-old heritage prevalent in the area. The village was tempted to believe that it wasn’t opposite bank is discernible only by and culture. Plus, warm welcoming feared, and outsiders, including locals magic after all, but the captivating a faint outline of undulating low hills people, delicious local cuisine, and an from other parts of Assam and even beauty of the place that had along the far horizon. inherent laid-back way of life. Guwahati, kept their distance. enchanted those unsuspecting souls Much has been written about Beyond the bustle of the city, Lately though, Mayong has in the past. the intoxicating beauty of northeast Assam’s allure becomes even more reinvented itself as a friendly, eco- Once we can pry ourselves away

India, and Assam is no exception. pronounced. It’s to unearth this Walker/Shutterstock Dreame conscious wildlife hotspot—largely from Mayong, we drive the last few

54 / / MARCH-APRIL 2021 / 55

VIST-0321-ESC-Guwahati.indd 54-55 04/03/21 4:45 PM ESCAPESOUL

India, and Assam is no exception. pronounced. It’s to unearth this Walker/Shutterstock Dreame conscious wildlife hotspot—largely from Mayong, we drive the last few

54 / / MARCH-APRIL 2021 / 55

VIST-0321-ESC-Guwahati.indd 54-55 04/03/21 4:45 PM ESCAPESOUL

THIS SPREAD 1. Indian-cormorants flock in Pobitora, alert like arrows in a quiver; 2. Just outside Mayong, you’ll spot the rhino, often taxiing local birds around the grassy landscape; 3. The women celebrate in their typical indigenous mekhela chadors; 4. Sualkuchi, whether for 1 2 4 its looms or its stunning vistas (such as this) is definitely worth a visit; 5. A traditional silk- kilometres to Pobitora. It may be one smooth hour-long drive from the city sturdy and has a natural golden Beyond the bustle of Guwahati, Assam’s allure weaving machine is an of the smaller wildlife sanctuaries in brings us across the Brahmaputra sheen. Almost every household in interesting contraption, a state known for its world-famous to its northern banks. Here lies one Sualkuchi owns and works on a especially as reels of becomes even more pronounced with lush thread obediently flow National Parks such as Kaziranga and of the largest weaving villages in the traditional hand-operated throw- through it; Manas, but Pobitora holds one of the world—Sualkuchi—renowned for its shuttle loom, locally called taatxaal. fields, twinkling ponds and smiling faces. 6. Spools of thread set largest populations of one-horned centuries-old tradition of producing Watching the weavers spin their these Sualkuchi silk rhinos in Assam. Which explains why indigenous Assam silk on traditional magic as delicate silk threads are weaving machines apart. The process of creating you can practically spot one every handlooms. In 2018, the weavers woven into yards of luxurious fabric, the masterpieces is long few kilometres here, lazily grazing or secured a trademark that now clearly is a fascinating experience. and painstaking. The happily mud-bathing. distinguishes Sualkuchi silk. Apart Some of the fabric will eventually locals, however, have dedicated themselves to Alongside rhinos, wild water from the exquisite craftsmanship, be crafted into silk saris or the keeping this art alive buffaloes and wild boars are the what truly makes the silk produced indigenous mekhela chador. Most of most easily spotted. But it’s the birds here unique is that it is ahimsa them are easily identifiable because that make Pobitora a hot favourite or peace silk and uses a humane they are adorned with colourful amongst wildlife enthusiasts. Over technique. The silkworm pupa is motifs that take inspiration from 375 avian species call the wildlife allowed to mature, so this method life—geometric flowers, peacocks, sanctuary home, and come winter, also encourages sustainability. lions, household pots, jewellery, and an average of 20,000 migratory Sualkuchi is famous for producing even the famous one-horned rhino. birds across 50 or so species fly over three types of silks—the white pat, the You can buy fabric or readymade 22,000 km from Siberia and North warm eri, and the off-white/golden garments from the weavers or from America to their winter playground of muga that is the only item from the many shops and cooperatives in Pobitora. Understandably, we return the state to have the Geographical town. Needless to say, we return from to Guwahati, having exhausted our Indication (GI) registration, a status this trip with our wallets a lot lighter, cameras to full capacity. it has enjoyed since 2007. The fabric our shopping bags a lot heavier, and 5 6 On a different day, yet another adorned by erstwhile royals, muga is Kumar/Shutterstock; Jyoti Ash David/Shutterstock; Talukdar Shuvro172/Shutterstock; Kakati/Shutterstock; Vikramjit Dr LEFT: FROM CLOCKWISE SurabhiArtss/Shutterstock SurabhiArtss/Shutterstock; our hearts a whole lot happier.

56 / / MARCH-APRIL 2021 / 57

VIST-0321-ESC-Guwahati.indd 56-57 04/03/21 4:45 PM ESCAPESOUL

56 / / MARCH-APRIL 2021 / 57

VIST-0321-ESC-Guwahati.indd 56-57 04/03/21 4:45 PM ESCAPECANVAS 1 As the shining sun turns the grasslands golden, these lion cubs take a breather as they learn essential survival skills from their mother. Botswana’s Savuti region is one of the best places to view these magnificent animals. BETTER Best time to visit July–September 2 Red pandas are very elusive and prefer to spend their time in quiet, dense forests. The Pangolakha TOGETHER Wildlife Sanctuary in Sikkim is a great place to get a The clan concept resonates with all living glimpse of this tiny furball. things, and these congregations can be sights Best time to visit March–May or October–February to behold. Here are a few of nature’s iconic 3 Humpback whales have a strong sense of creatures... in the warmth of their tribe. community, and mothers and calves are inseparable. Curated by MUNEESH TARSEM Get a glimpse of these mighty beings as they soar past you in the waters near Reykjavík, Iceland. Best time to visit May–August 2

1 Johnsingh Mike Capt. LEAD PHOTO: Berken/Shutterstock Justin Canberk.csr/Shutterstock; : esdeem/Shutterstock; TOP CLOCKWISE FROM

58 / / MARCH-APRIL 2021 / 59

VIST-0321-ESC-Photoessay.indd 58-59 04/03/21 7:16 PM ESCAPECANVAS 1 As the shining sun turns the grasslands golden, these lion cubs take a breather as they learn essential survival skills from their mother. Botswana’s Savuti region is one of the best places to view these magnificent animals. BETTER Best time to visit July–September 2 Red pandas are very elusive and prefer to spend their time in quiet, dense forests. The Pangolakha TOGETHER Wildlife Sanctuary in Sikkim is a great place to get a The clan concept resonates with all living glimpse of this tiny furball. things, and these congregations can be sights Best time to visit March–May or October–February to behold. Here are a few of nature’s iconic 3 Humpback whales have a strong sense of creatures... in the warmth of their tribe. community, and mothers and calves are inseparable. Curated by MUNEESH TARSEM Get a glimpse of these mighty beings as they soar past you in the waters near Reykjavík, Iceland. Best time to visit May–August 2

1 Johnsingh Mike Capt. LEAD PHOTO: Berken/Shutterstock Justin Canberk.csr/Shutterstock; : esdeem/Shutterstock; TOP CLOCKWISE FROM

58 / / MARCH-APRIL 2021 / 59

VIST-0321-ESC-Photoessay.indd 58-59 04/03/21 7:16 PM ESCAPECANVAS

6 4 A herd of llamas is a social, active cacophonous group, and these resilient animals are known to be important to the Inca and other Altiplano cultures. For a closer look at the absolutely adorable llamas, Peru’s Sacred Valley in Cusco is the place. Another good option? Bolivia. Best time to visit April–October

5 Almost everyone loves dolphins, and for good reason! They are cute, they are fun and they are very intelligent. Dolphins are also loyal, and seeing a pod of dolphins frolic in the ocean is bound to cheer you up. If you’re ready to be surrounded by wild dolphins, a trip to The Azores in Portugal is exactly what you need. Best time to visit June–August

6 The Indian rhinoceros is famously solitary, so spotting mothers and calves is quite difficult. But, if you do manage to see them, you’re in for a treat—baby rhinos can be quite playful. To see this staple of mythology and folklore, Kaziranga and Manas national parks in Assam are great locations. Best time to visit November–April

60 / / MARCH-APRIL 2021 / 61

VIST-0321-ESC-Photoessay.indd 60-61 04/03/21 7:16 PM ESCAPECANVAS

60 / / MARCH-APRIL 2021 / 61

VIST-0321-ESC-Photoessay.indd 60-61 04/03/21 7:16 PM ESCAPECANVAS

8 7 Kangaroos are native to Australia, and generally very amiable to each other in their troops. And who hasn’t heard of joeys in their mother’s pouches? If you want to spot one while lounging on the beach (it’ll probably be doing the same!), you should bookmark Western Australia’s Lucky Bay in Cape Le Grand National Park. Best time to visit April–May or September–November

8 The gentle Indian elephant is found throughout the country and, while everyone has seen one, spotting a wild herd will blow you away. The Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary in Kerala is a quiet

alternative to the bigger national parks. GmbH/Shutterstock Zoonar Bildagentur Dekker/Shutterstoc; Chase Prudek/Shutterstock; Daniel : mcjeff/Shutterstock; Best time to visit October–February Gonzalez/Shutterstock Leonardo foryouinf/Shutterstock; Catherine Pownall/Shutterstock; Walker/Shutterstock; : Dreame

9 Loggerhead turtles live in the open sea, and normally come ashore only to lay eggs. While the coastline of Galle in Sri Lanka has many hatcheries, the Kosgoda Turtle Conservation and Research Centre is a wonderful place to see them.

Best time to visit November–May LEFT BOTTOM FROM THIS SPREAD CLOCKWISE LEFT BOTTOM FROM SPREAD CLOCKWISE PREVIOUS 9

62 / / MARCH-APRIL 2021 / 63

VIST-0321-ESC-Photoessay.indd 62-63 04/03/21 7:16 PM ESCAPECANVAS

8 The gentle Indian elephant is found throughout the country and, while everyone has seen one, spotting a wild herd will blow you away. The Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary in Kerala is a quiet alternative to the bigger national parks. GmbH/Shutterstock Zoonar Bildagentur Dekker/Shutterstoc; Chase Prudek/Shutterstock; Daniel : mcjeff/Shutterstock; Best time to visit October–February Gonzalez/Shutterstock Leonardo foryouinf/Shutterstock; Catherine Pownall/Shutterstock; Walker/Shutterstock; : Dreame

Best time to visit November–May LEFT BOTTOM FROM THIS SPREAD CLOCKWISE LEFT BOTTOM FROM SPREAD CLOCKWISE PREVIOUS 9

62 / / MARCH-APRIL 2021 / 63

VIST-0321-ESC-Photoessay.indd 62-63 04/03/21 7:16 PM COMMUNITY

has managed to keep up with the through a successful association with sustainable revolution. “Our vision is Lakmé Fashion Week and partnerships to help create a world in which women with well-known international brands from marginalised communities, like Uniqlo and Innisfree. In India, or those who do not have a formal Sirohi has expanded its presence to education, have increased access to retail and online stores, with listings tech-based design support and online/ in over 20 digital marketplaces such offline markets, and can then use their as Jaypore, LBB, Once Upon A Trunk craft to bring about a tangible change and so on. Internationally, the brand is CRAFT YOUR DESTINY in their lives. We aim to help women present in the US, London, Singapore Sirohi is an artisan-led brand that helps women create who never imagined a life beyond and Australia, among others. household chores to dream big and be As much as it has achieved, Gauri luxe-sustainable lifestyle products using their skill sets, while bold,” says Gauri. believes that Sirohi still has a long providing a forum for them to dream big. Today, Sirohi supports over way to go and there are a number of by PALLAVI SINGH 200 women who work with the initiatives on the horizon. non-profit organisation, to become financially independent and, in turn, TO DREAM AND TO DO. WHEN THESE Foundation (SSF), the story took help uplift their communities. With two actions combine, magic can shape in the year 2012 when the an all-women crew that includes VISTARA’S WOMEN happen. Mumtaz is a 17-year-old foundation, with its successful Neeti Gopal, Shagun Swarup and EMPOWERMENT INITIATIVE | woman and mother from Budhina solar-lighting project, put Sirohi—a artisan cluster heads Gauhar, Shahiba COVID-19 RELIEF Khurd, a village in Uttar Pradesh. She charming village nestled in the Aravalli and Zehra, the organisation makes can weave bags and stool-tops, and Range—in the spotlight. “This was optimal use of social media platforms her goal is to be famous for her work. where our inspiration was born and and digital technology to ensure the 20 She even dreams of being featured in this is where our journey began,” says maximum connect and reach for the WOMEN a magazine one day (well, she’s almost Gauri Gopal, Founder and Director, brand. In fact, Sirohi introduced live EMPOWERED there). Motivating her—and many SSF. Having worked in London, weaving sessions as a fun, interactive others like her—to be her own boss Tokyo, Lima and Geneva, Gauri came and insightful way of escaping the and enabling her to showcase her skill back to India to action her belief that boredom of the lockdown. “We did this 6,000+ is the lifework of Sirohi. Set up with India’s future lies in the hands of its through virtual sessions with ECO-FRIENDLY the objective of creating a brand that women. “Through Sirohi, we aim to our artisans where they spoke about MASKS PROCURED puts artisans first, Sirohi focusses on propagate sustainable living, as well their journey of #wastetowow, being design and craft to create an exclusive as prove that an artisan-empowered self-reliant, and learning weaving range of luxe-sustainable home décor brand can enter and flourish in the skills that had been passed down `1,30,000+ products that are functional and also luxury and premium space,” she says. through generations in their FINANCIAL SUPPORT serve a higher purpose. By upcycling plastic and textile communities,” says Gauri. PROVIDED

Launched by the Skilled Samaritan waste to create their products, Sirohi Sirohi of courtesy All images Sirohi added a feather to its cap

64 / / MARCH-APRIL 2021 / 65

VIST-0321-ESC-Community_Final NEw.indd All Pages 04/03/21 7:17 PM COMMUNITY

Launched by the Skilled Samaritan waste to create their products, Sirohi Sirohi of courtesy All images Sirohi added a feather to its cap

64 / / MARCH-APRIL 2021 / 65

VIST-0321-ESC-Community_Final NEw.indd All Pages 04/03/21 7:17 PM T T O

being one of my favourite trips. We saw the India-Australia Women’s Twenty20 International Cricket match at the Melbourne Cricket Ground, visited the Gold Coast, held a koala bear in our arms for the ﬁ rst time and even went for a hot air balloon ride. cclaimed singer and songwriter, N tells us Do you like collecting souvenirs? about her most memorable travel experiences and why Yes—mugs and fridge magnets. she loves travelling with her sisters. Your greatest source of inspiration? I think it’s life. Constantly inspiring, constantly What kind of traveller are you? challenging, and always giving you fresh roles. Like now, I I like exploring on foot, stopping wherever I feel like and am embarking on the journey to be a mother. speaking to locals. It doesn’t matter if the place is a tourist hotspot or not, I’m simply interested in sensing its vibe. Any advice for emerging independent artists? Train to be extremely passionate about your art. Know the Give us a peek into the travelling tales of the Mohan sisters. right skills, learn about the profession and follow some When you have a gang of sisters like mine, you know great work by both local and international artists. Observe you are also travel-mates. We plan trips keeping in how they perform, write their songs and, most importantly, mind everyone’s preferences. For example, I am not into always be hungry to learn. adventure sports, but I might be doing photography or simply lying down on the grass and listening to music Three things that you always carry with you on a trip? while Mukti goes bungee jumping. Music, my credit card and sunglasses.

Of the many trips you’ve taken, which one’s been No trip is fun without some good music. That said, what your favourite? does Neeti Mohan’s travel playlist look like? Just before the lockdown, I went on a family trip to I agree. Whenever I discover a nice song, I add it to my Australia with my sisters Shakti and Mukti, and my travel list, especially songs about nature, travel and ‘freeing’ husband, Nihar. We had to return early as air travel was yourself. My list includes Coldplay and Maroon 5 tracks

shutting down all over the world, but it still ended up and Rahman sir’s songs, such as Phir Se Ud Chala. oha eeti of courtesy All images

66 / / MARCH-APRIL 2021

VIST-0321-The Last Word.indd 66 04/03/21 5:14 PM