October-November 2017
New Zealand Special
INTERVIEW
DR. NARESH ADMIRAL AKHIL TREHAN ARUN PRAKASH BANSAL October-November 2017
It's not just about It's about making
Proud to render the name, identity & execution of Oorja.
W-19 Greater Kailash Part 2 New Delhi 110048 2 Ph. no. 011-29217575, www.eventzunlimited.com Business & Economic Diplomacy From the Editor’s Desk
“New Zealanders like nothing better than to get together to watch and discuss sports over good food and drink. And it turns out the same is true for Indians when the sport is cricket”, said New Zealand High Commissioner Joanna Kempkers after a scintillating ‘Black Caps’ reception at her residence where cricket diplomacy reigned supreme.
Consulting Editor Sporting ties are truly the most entertaining and effective tool for building diplomatic relations as well as overcoming cultural Meenakshi Sharma differences. The cover story on New Zealand has an exclusive Senior Correspondent interview with H.E Joanna Kempkers followed by a travel Anam Hamid feature to this exciting destination. Business Development Head If medicine is sacred, then Dr. Naresh Trehan is the Medanta Ruchi Kohli Medicity Messiah as he shares his vision in ‘Maxims of Medicine’. [email protected] In a somewhat similar vein, Akhil Bansal, Dy. CEO of KPMG Administration & Accounts in India explains the future of Knowledge Management while Kuldeep Mishra CEO of United Way Delhi helps us understand how to fulfil our [email protected] ‘Social Responsibility’! Design An officer and a gentleman describes former Chief of Navy Staff, Designbox Admiral Arun Prakash as we interview him at his idyllic Goa Printed and Published by home to get a peek into his military and strategic world view. Kanika Kumria Food and drink becomes a diplomatic coup as Korean chefs Alliance Media Group rustle a mean ‘bibimbap’ and ‘kimbap’ at Le Meridien Gurgaon W-19, Greater Kailash Part II recently. The Big F Awards continue to spread their magic at a New Delhi - 110048 star studded night that recognizes good food and felicitates top chefs. Alliance Media Group is not responsible for the loss or damage to unsolicited material. The writing, International relations get a topping of culture as Swan Lake artwork or photos may not be re published without mesmerizes, a Jazz Live Festival is all set for a musical start and specific written permission of the publisher. fashion gets a stylish heads up at the Lifestyle Week. Don’t miss all this and more in this issue of B&ED and do visit RNI No: DELENG / 2016 / 69193 www.businesseconomicdiplomacy.com to keep in touch online.
Meenakshi Sharma
3 October-November 2017 Content
1. Sporting Ties 5. The Admirable 10. Big F Food Awards An exclusive interview with Admiral Food Freaks honour their favourites at H.E Joanna Kempkers, the New Zealand the Big F Food Awards An interview with former CNS, High Commissioner Admiral Arun Prakash Page - 28 Page - 5 Page - 20 11. Russian Ballet Swan Lake enchants Delhi
Page - 30
6. A healthier and fitter 2. Kiwi Experience life An exhilarating vacation in New Zealand Nutrilite from Amway 8. Jazz travels to Goa Page - 12 Page - 22 Enjoy beautiful music that touches your soul
Page - 32 3. Maxims of Medicine 7. UNNINEST With Founder Chairman of Medanta, Student education and accommodation Dr. Naresh Trehan in Dubai Page - 14 Page - 26
4. Upholding the highest 9. Korean Connection standards of Knowledge Bibimbap and Kimbap floor foodies Management Page - 27 12. Lifestyle Week An interaction with Mr Akhil Bansal of Sets the ramp on fire with high fashion KPMG in India and style Page - 18 Page - 34
4 Business & Economic Diplomacy 100% Pure New Zealand
Indians bond with New Zealanders over sports, good food and drink, says Joanna Kempkers even as she highlights Indo- NZ partnerships in creating sustainable models from Agriculture to Education.
Ms Joanna Kempkers, New Zealand’s strengthened by Sports, Education, to-people connection that continues High Commissioner to India belongs to Tourism and Trade. to be strengthened by our extensive Christchurch and is a graduate of the B & ED: As members of the Asia- education and tourism links. Last year, University of Canterbury. Her 23 year Pacific region, New Zealand and more than 28,000 Indian students career has been notable for postings India have a close relationship. How came to study in New Zealand, making to Paris, Fiji and the Cook Islands with do you ensure that these ties are India the second largest source of her most recent assignment being Chief continuously strengthened? international students for us. In New of Protocol for the Ministry of Foreign Zealand, they are receiving a world- Affairs and Trade. She is currently High As you have pointed out, New Zealand class education and creating lasting Commissioner to India, with cross and India have a close relationship that personal and business ties between accreditations pending to Sri Lanka. In is built on our shared Commonwealth our countries. India is also among our an exclusive interview with Business & heritage, a common language in English, top 10 contributors for visitor arrivals Economic Diplomacy, she spoke about respect for democracy, human rights with nearly 55,000 visitors from India in the close bilateral relations between and the rule of law, and our passion for the year ending May 2017 and 66,000 the two countries which are further cricket. We also have a historic people- New Zealanders coming to India in
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comprehensive free trade agreement fresh and pure cows’ milk to over 1000 that provides them with secure market residential homes in greater Delhi. They access, greater certainty on costs and have partnered with a well-known New stability of regulation. Zealand dairy farmer, Sir Earl Rattray, B & ED: India is a key economic and who has been appointed as one of the political partner for New Zealand. Directors of Binsar Farms and together There has also been a recent they are sharing their knowledge with agreement (MOU) with the Haryana other farmers locally. Their nutritious Government to promote NZ’s best milk is sourced from a herd of about agricultural practices that include 300 cows that are fed grass and fodder horticulture and dairy practices. grown on the farm and sourced locally. Tell us more about such innovations They employ over 100 staff and supply that create a win-win for India-NZ free fresh milk to the local primary return. They too create lasting linkages relations? school every day. and contribute to building a closer Similarly, New Zealand experts, relationship. Do you know about India’s “Operation Flood” that led the country to self- scientists and industry are working with As responsible actors in the Asia- sufficiency in dairy? The man behind it, farmers to improve apple productivity Pacific region, India and New Zealand Dr Verghese Kurien, studied at Massey in Himachal Pradesh. Yields in this have a strong interest in keeping this University in New Zealand in 1953. region have been declining as its region stable and prosperous. This After learning about New Zealand’s ageing trees become vulnerable to ensures that we work together closely co-operative model, he returned to pests and diseases. Along with the to achieve our common goals. One of India and built the Amul brand of dairy Himachal Pradesh Government, we the ways through which we do this is products. Today, we see transfer of are collaborating with local farmers to regular leader-level visits that help us knowledge continuing at Binsar Farms, replant traditional and new varieties, reinforce our ties and set the stage for an Indo-Kiwi dairy start-up located improve pest and disease control, collaboration at an international level. in Sonepat and a prime example of increase research and development, and Former President Shri Pranab Mukherjee what Indo-New Zealand partnerships improve water storage and irrigation. visited New Zealand in 2016 and Sir can achieve together. Launched by B & ED: NZ is ranked high in gender John Key, who was our Prime Minister three Indian information technology equality and gender parity. What are until December last year, visited India in professionals driven by the desire to the lessons that India can gain from? October 2016. Besides this, the Indian improve sustainable development Are there any CSR practices that Minister of State for External Affairs Lt for local farmers, the start-up delivers encourage similar examples? Gen V K Singh also visited New Zealand earlier this year. We also want to develop our relationship with India further by successfully concluding a quality bilateral FTA and engaging multilaterally through a deal under the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP). A free trade relationship between both countries would certainly help in enhancing trade, which is currently worth $2.5 billion but has the potential to be a lot greater. New Zealand has world-leading expertise across many sectors of interest to India such as agriculture, education, tourism, innovation and technology to name a few. Our experience is that engagement and investment by New Zealand companies skyrockets following the conclusion of a high-quality,
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We were the first country to give women the right to vote B & ED: Since India is one of the largest source of skilled in 1853. Today, New Zealand is ranked as one of the top 10 migrants and international students, what measures keep countries in gender equality and our Governor-General, Deputy this ever increasing community of students and workers Prime Minister, Leader of the Opposition and Chief Justice educated and engaged about opportunities? are all women. We are proud of what we have achieved and India is indeed one of our top sources of skilled migrants and are happy to support initiatives that promote gender equality students. In 2015/16, India (at 16 per cent) was the second across the world. biggest contributor of permanent migrants to New Zealand. In India, over the last two years we have supported Katha, a Today 4% of NZ’s population, or around 185,000 people are New Delhi-based organisation, to produce five gender-sensitive people of Indian origin, and Hindi is the fourth most commonly storybooks for use in Delhi’s schools. The goal is to inspire spoken language in New Zealand. We are proud of the children to become agents of change and, thereby, reduce important contribution this community makes to our political, gender stereotypes in our society. We have also supported business, cultural and sporting life. From time to time, public the work of Asha Society in New Delhi to help women in agencies in New Zealand run special campaigns to draw top some of the city’s lesser privileged neighbourhoods empower talent from across the world, including India. For instance, this themselves to better advocate, lobby and lead on public health year in March, we received the largest number of applications issues affecting slum residents. from India (nearly a sixth of the total applications received) We are also happy to have played a role in the success story for Wellington Regional Economic Development Agency’s of India’s mountaineering twins, Tashi and Nungshi Malik, special campaign to attract the best global IT talent to the who are the world’s first siblings and twins to scale the “World’s Coolest Little Capital”. In keeping with this reputation, highest peaks on all the seven continents. The sisters studied the interview process even involves free return flights and at the Southern Institute of Technology in Invercargill on a accommodation for all shortlisted applicants! Around the same New Zealand Government scholarship. In New Zealand, they time last year, our Government also launched a visionary three- found an enabling and gender-neutral environment to develop year fellowship programme – through a new Hillary Global their capabilities as outdoor sport practitioners, specialising in Impact Visa – that seeks to bring together a community of mountaineering. They have since then returned to India and set visionary entrepreneurs, investors and startup teams to create up a foundation to try and empower girls and women in their positive global impact from New Zealand. state of Uttarakhand through outdoor sports. This month and in the next, Education New Zealand will
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support, New Zealand emerged as the most searched travel destination in India in December last year. (Based on the search activity of 50 million users per month, data released by travel search website Skyscanner showed a 52 per cent increase in the number of searches for New Zealand compared to the corresponding period the year before.) Coupled with natural beauty and innumerable outdoor activities on offer, New Zealand is considered the hub of adventure tourism. Exciting outdoor adventures can be enjoyed around the country – from bungy jump, sky-dive, jet-boat, or exploring White Island, New Zealand’s only active marine volcano. New Zealand also provides some of the most exhilarating caving, skiing, surfing and windsurfing in the world. For travellers who prefer a more relaxed holiday New Zealand also offers world class food and wine; authentic Maori select the finalists in the New Zealand Zealand economy and is the biggest cultural experiences; quality museums India Sustainability Challenge. This export earner generating $14.5 billion and art galleries and a plethora of programme brings together groups of in the current year. India is a priority sightseeing opportunities – so there smart students from India and New emerging market for Tourism New really is something for everyone. Zealand into teams to create innovative Zealand and is among the top 10 source B & ED: Do share your personal solutions to environmental challenges markets for international tourists. experiences of living and working in facing India today. The latest addition to the 100% Pure India and how it has enriched you? B & ED: NZ is a much loved travel New Zealand global campaign, ‘Where I have been here for more than six destination and a hub of adventure one journey leads to another’, is inspired months now but in this short period I sports. How do you promote this by exploring further afield and delves have already experienced more than my outdoor culture of NZ in India and deeper into New Zealand’s unique visitor fair share of the warmth and generosity ensure branding of NZ tourism? experience and explores the country India and its people are renowned for. Tourism New Zealand is the organisation through a more regional lens. Attending an Indian wedding, soon after responsible for marketing New Zealand The campaign was launched in India on my arrival, made me feel like I was living to the world as a tourist destination. 3 July through digital media including in a Bollywood movie. Getting plastered The major tool they use to do this is Facebook and Google. In addition to with colour on Holi and having a yummy the 100% Pure New Zealand marketing consumer advertising Tourism New shared lunch with staff at Eid were clear campaign, a campaign that has evolved Zealand focuses on public relations and highlights. I wasn’t so skilled at the over the years to make New Zealand trade marketing activity to promote New kite flying for Independence Day, but one of the world’s most well-respected Zealand to Indian travellers. my husband was pleased he managed to cut two kites! We are joined here by tourism brands. In 2015 Tourism New Zealand appointed our three children, and we are looking Through the 100% Pure New Zealand Bollywood actor Sidharth Malhotra as forward to getting out and about as campaign Tourism New Zealand takes its Indian Tourism Ambassador and this often as we can to enjoy the beauty and New Zealand’s story to consumers, partnership has delivered incredibly diversity of India. My parents have been the travel trade and the global media, strong results. His two visits to New here too and they thoroughly enjoyed while working with the industry in New Zealand have resulted in widespread our visits to the Wildlife SOS elephant Zealand to ensure we deliver on the media coverage with almost 3000 sanctuary near Agra and the Taj Mahal. promises made through the campaign. stories published across print, online, Now, if only I could stop finding gulab social and TV channels. Thanks to his Tourism is vitally important to the New jamun and jalebi quite so irresistible…
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Sporting Ties at the Black Caps Reception
New Zealand high Commission hosted the New Zealand cricket team for a reception at the High Commission. The event was themed to profile New Zealand’s progress in innovation, particular in the field of sports technology. While the cricket field saw a closely fought one-day international series, which the BlackCaps lost 2-1, New Zealand is now taking on India for a T20 series. The reception was an elegant and beautiful evening which was attended by over 200 distinguished guests from the field of politics, government, private sector, business and media. Speaking about the event, New Zealand High Commissioner Dignitaries like H.E Nadir Patel, Canadian High Commissioner Joanna Kempkers said, “New Zealanders like nothing better to India, renowned politician Sh. Shashi Tharoor, Counselor than to get together to watch and discuss sports over good and Charge D’Affaires at the US Embassy Ms. Marykay Loss food and drink. And it turns out the same is true for Indians Carlson among others were seen enjoying the event. when the sport is cricket! We’re really proud of the success that the Blackcaps and other New Zealand representative The highlight of the evening was an informal interaction with sports teams achieve on the world stage, but it is no accident. some of the cricketers led by former New Zealand cricketer and There is a whole industry of innovation in sports and sports commentator Simon Doull. The discussion centred not just on nutrition in New Zealand which sits behind their success. It was cricket and the ongoing tour but also included a surprise quiz great to be able to profile some of those companies working to test the cricketers’ knowledge of India. at the interface between science, technology and sports on The food and drink was as sublime as the evening itself and Monday night while we enjoyed the company of the Blackcaps guests relished premium New Zealand food and drinks like and some of the superb New Zealand food and wine which is lamb, kiwifruit, apples, avocados and wine! available on the market in India.”
9 October-November 2017 Glimpses at the Black Caps Reception
Mr. Kapil Kumria with Greg Barclay & Joanna Kempkers Mr. Kapil with politician Mr.Shashi Tharoor & Ish Sodhi of Black Caps
Ross Taylor, New Zealand Cricketer Ross Taylor, Captain Kane Williamson and commentator Simon Doull
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Mr. Kapil with Tim Southy of Black Caps Black Caps
Tom Latham, Trent Bouth, Ross Taylor, Kane Williamson and Simon Doull Mr. Kapil with MaryKay Loss Carlson
HC Nadir Patel with his wife Jennifer Joanna Kempkers
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The Kiwi Experience by Sarthak Sharma
“I’m 13000km away from home and this is the start of something incredible.”
Photo credits: Neelesh Rampal
After those numerous lectures on international travel, the If there was one thing I probably wasn’t prepared for, it was stress of having to worry about a passport and the anxiety of the really outdoor lifestyle of the kiwis. A rude awakening of travelling abroad alone for the first time were finally forgotten sorts welcomed me as I was forced to push my own boundaries as I awoke in a new environment, around a new atmosphere to keep up with my cousin in every single thing he suggested and an inherent chill in the air. Its then that I realized, I’m I do in order to fulfill the “kiwi experience”. What is this kiwi 13000km away from home and this is the start of something experience, I thought and why is it so important? Well I sure incredible. I knew this was a once in a lifetime chance for me to found out. experience something very few people my age actually get to The first weekend I was there, we headed to the geothermal witness. With this attitude and a sudden burst of confidence, heaven and rotten eggs smelling city of Rotorua. This is where I began my journey to explore the sights and sounds and the nature really plays a game with us. We were always told that natural beauty that is New Zealand.
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and I, five of his other friends decided to join us as we explored the less traversed south island of New Zealand, known exclusively for its natural beauty and breathtaking views. The same could be seen just as we approached landing near Queenstown as the landscape transitioned from white clouds to white mountains in an instant. As I braced myself for landing through mountains I could see similar excited faces in the flight that reassured me I wasn’t fan boying too much over what was taking place. The cold winds of winter greeted volcanoes erupt from a mountain that walking and trekking. A drive around the us and the thick jackets came out soon looks a certain way and volcanic activity massive and beautiful lakes of Taupo after as we met all our friends and found can be really dangerous. But in Rotorua, soon followed and I suddenly realized cars that we were to have for the rest this is just everyday stuff for the people. what I’d been missing all these years. of the week. Over the course of the said Tourism is the biggest contributor to Brilliant maintenance and smooth roads week I realized just what a first time the economy and its hard to argue even through utter wilderness proved tourist should do whilst in South Island. otherwise. With lots of adventure just how far behind we are when it tourism and one of the few places in comes to overall administration. That in the world you can witness geo thermal itself is worth mentioning. activity at its live best, Rotorua really is a Taupo provided its fair share of thrills Highlights city worth paying a visit. and spills and we capped off the trip Things aren’t cheap when you’re an with the luge. What’s a luge, you may Indian who goes abroad. I had to be ask. In basic terms, you get a gondola Keeping the said things in mind, really careful with my spending whilst in ride to the top of a mountain and pretty the following are the things one NZ and staying in a cheap backpackers much glide down the slope in a go- should certainly do while in hostel seemed like the perfect way to kart kind of vehicle meant to go only the South Island in and around go. It’s a system very common among downwards. It may sound scary but Queenstown European and American landscapes as brilliant management has ensured that it is all over Australia and New Zealand, the vehicle is safe for almost all ages • Skiing providing cheap overnight stays to weary and 100% safety measures are ensured • Fergburger travellers who follow their passion of on the track in case something does go • AJ Hackett Bungy exploring to the fullest. A great way to wrong. An adrenaline rush nonetheless • AJ Hackett Zipline save a few bucks and meet new people especially when you bet your fellow 20 • Mountain Biking and of course, cook your own food and year old cousin that you won’t brake • Luge clean when you are done. while going down! • Ice Bar What can be better than seeing hot After a hectic yet enthralling trip to geo • Drive to Milford Sound via Te water erupt from underneath the very thermal paradise, there was no rest Anau ground I stand on? Probably hot water I for the weary. A mere 24 hours after • Milford Sound Cruise can swim in! On a cold day in the middle arriving back in Auckland, we packed • Drive along the Lake wakatipu of winter nothing felt more welcoming our bags and prepared for a 5 AM flight • Glenorchy than a nice dip in the kerosene creek on from Auckland to Queenstown, the legit • Wanaka the way to Taupo, a city on the outskirts adventure capital of the world. Tired as I • Arrowtown of Rotorua. With a temperature of 30 was, I was excited for what awaited me. • Queenstown Cruise degrees inside the water, it was just what Mixing with the locals was something • Paragliding the aching bones needed to replenish I found most exciting. With my cousin • Sky dive and refresh after a couple of days of solid
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Maxims of MEDICINE by Meenakshi Sharma
WITH DR. NARESH TREHAN
From its impressive façade and specialized doctors to the state of the art facilities and efficient processes and protocols, there is much to admire at Medanta - the Medicity which is not just a well-known Gurgaon landmark and an iconic structure but a place of good health, hope and solace for those who are suffering. The entrance, the lobby, the spacious reception, even the numerous lifts are milling with people who have faith in the vision of Founder Chairman Dr. Naresh Trehan, a recipient of the Padma Bhushan and Padma Shri among other prominent awards.
India is my“ obsession A respected citizen with a deep sense of social responsibility, he believes “India is my obsession,” as he explains the vision of the Medanta Medicity project which has been fashioned on the lines of a Mayo, Cleveland, or John Hopkins in its basics but goes beyond the pattern of a conventional medical institute. “Genetically, economically, culturally, environmentally and knowledge wise Indians are very different so we need to develop our own medicine,” says Dr. Trehan who went to the United States in 1969, and by the mid-1980’s when he was earning over $1.5 million a year as a Manhattan heart surgeon, did what few Indian doctors would imagine doing - came back, prompted by ‘’a kind of national pride’’ and set up Medanta! He believes that progression is not only natural but the only way to face the challenges of the future.
We need more“ Enablers Trehan believes that while medicine in India has grown by leaps and bounds with many super specialty hospitals coming up, they are inadequate not because they are few and far between but because most are not affordable to all. Explaining Tree of Life this he says, “It is not about accessibility or affordability but
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more because it is out of reach due to the paucity of enablers. affordable and ensures the highest level of surveillance to While in the West Insurance or Medicare covers 80-90 percent ensure that the risk of infection is not there. “With 22 crore of the population, in India it is barely 20% making it too population, this was an obvious choice apart from the fact that expensive.” I studied here and have a bond with the city.” He is hopeful that in the next 5-7 years private insurance will cover more and more people and that government schemes will increase from 3% to 8-10% as he says, “The transition is needed from private pocket to a more insured set up while another methodology being explored for guaranteeing accessibility is through new models of subsidized Public Private Partnership”.
MULTIPLE MEDANTAS
And here in lies the seed for the multiple Medantas that have begun to spout over North and North East India. His dream of taking Medanta to the underserved areas has well and truly begun and now that Medanta has reached Indore and Patna, he is ready for Ranchi, Chhattisgarh and the North East. The biggest in the pipeline and all set to roll out is the one in Lucknow and Trehan explains why he chose Uttar Pradesh for his 1000 bed hospital with services like Liver transplant, Bone Marrow transplant and high end Cancer care which is
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MEDICAL TOURISM & EDUCATION RELEVANCE OF PROCESSES & PROTOCOLS On the growing trend of medical tourism, he says, “From time immemorial, people have always travelled to seek medical Dr. Trehan explains how Medanta believes in processes help. India has an intelligent and educated doctor base but and protocols and has inculcated a culture where there is a didn’t have the infrastructure. Now we have the ability and complete standardization of procedures to enhance the patient we can do it at 1/10th of the cost. A surgery that costs 20 lacs as well as caregiver’s experience. abroad could be brought down to just 2 lacs in India.”
He believes that medical education needs to grow more. “From paramedics to nurses to doctors and attendants, “I am on the DNB (Diplomate of National) Board and have everyone is given proper training. we have nurtured programmes at Medanta where we take 150 post grad students a caring ethos and that spreads everywhere. You will to ensure availability of doctors and yet we haven’t explored at the undergraduate level. We feel one way is to take the BMS notice that the waiting lounges give an experience of (Ayurveda) doctors and give them additional training to bridge comfort and are well coordinated while we maintain the gap and integrate them into modern medicine.” high surveillance to ensure prevention of infections.”
INTEGRATING ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE
Another proof of his faith in India is his pride in his wholehearted endorsement of alternative medicine like Ayurveda and incorporating the benefits of Yoga in modern medicine. He explains,
“The next 5-7 years will be a new era of medicine which will develop from Indian and this will change the way we cure. This will make medicine more effective, less invasive and more affordable.”
Being a strong votary of alternative medicine, Dr. Trehan believes it needs to be integrated in a synergistic manner Dr. Naresh Trehan because “there are strengths on both sides and a fusion works towards the betterment of patients. From pre preparation WORK LIFE BALANCE to rehabilitative phase, it is a sustained effort as it is less invasive and more comfortable”. He explains how there are A workaholic who is yet a strong believer in balance, he defies areas where modern medicine is not very effective like in his age and works nonstop. Ask him the secret and he says, “I Parkinson, Alzheimers, Back Pain, Cancer treatment. It is here manage to strike a balance because of my mental state and that he recommends a combination of surgery with alternative also because of yoga and exercise. But most important because medicine and yoga exercises which focus on breathing with I am enjoying work and I find it gratifying so I do it well. I never excellent results. feel it is tough to balance even though I am available 24/7.”
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17 October-November 2017 Upholding highest standards 0f Knowledge Management
In an interview with our Consulting Editor, Deputy CEO Akhil Bansal shares how “quality and integrity is at the heart of all we do” and reiterates that at KPMG,
Our best is“ yet to come!
Akhil Bansal
As Akhil Bansal shares the KPMG track record now oversee several businesses. I have always carried forward and applied my learnings from each role to the next one. of uncompromised ethic, coupled with the high As a professional, I have gained tremendously. Whether I talk standards of leading practices. “Our clients of client handling skills, crisis/conflict management, or getting figure in Fortune 500 and our services range the best out of your teams. The key learning I always like to across diverse and growing sectors. Our people share with people or groups I speak to, is always to take the have been instrumental in our success and have high road to success. Always compete on your strengths and your capabilities. Disparaging others, be it peers within your experienced professional and personal growth team, your organisation, or even competition, is not a good, or over the years. Going ahead, we want to be the sustainable way to win. best - in how we uphold our standards, serve Personally too, it has been a rewarding journey. Through all our clients and our communities, and take care my mentors, friends and colleagues who have influenced the of our people”. path I have taken, two qualities outshine. The first is ‘hunger’, a desire to achieve. The second is ‘humility’, keeping a modest B& ED: Please share the highlights of your career vis-vis view of oneself. An individual’s successes will cease if there the learnings you have gained in your professional and isn’t continued hunger, and there can be no real learning or personal capacity. openness to ideas without humility. This is my 21st year with KPMG in India. Being an integral part My family has stood by me like a rock. And over the years, I of the firm – I have seen it grow and transform with a life and have discovered newer ways of appreciating the sacrifices they soul. I was one of the early members of the firm, and am proud have made for me. to have been part of this legacy. This firm that I am part of, gives a lot more than it demands. One of the most memorable moments was definitely at the very I feel like I am a chip of the KPMG block. The association start (back in 1992) - as I cleared my Chartered Accountancy evokes a deep sense of pride within me because I feel I have with an all India rank. That was the real head start and the rest contributed to where we are today! as they say is history. B & ED: Since you are responsible for strategy During my tenure at KPMG in India, I have worn several hats - I implementation, what have been the positive features as have had the opportunity to run a practice, lead operations and well as the challenges faced by KPMG in India?
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There are some hard calls involved – models, or unforeseen competition. Evaluating technical skills such that which areas to play in, where to invest, To cope, both individuals and while they are fit for the position is a given. whether to build or buy. And all this, on we continue to build on the strong But now more than ever, hiring based the back of a market which continues foundation of our core offerings in the on core values has become imperative. to evolve at a daunting pace. This market – we must also bring new and These young people are going to be also makes decisions as well as their differentiated solutions to the market. future brand ambassadors of the firm, implementation time critical, in order to Advisory offerings with potential to and hence, represent the firm in the stay market relevant. Clarity about what create demand in the market (if not market. you want to do, who you need and how existing already), include the stressed Attracting purpose-driven talent who to get there, helps focus limited financial assets space, automation, large-scale can identify with KPMG’s strong values and people resources. transformation, cyber advisory and is important as it can go a long way Strategy implementation, as a journey, customer digital advisory. in inspiring confidence in clients and is one of intense learning, both for the Clients also demand deep sector adding to our continuously evolving organisation as well as the individual. insights, and in order to stay relevant on culture of high performance. Three aspects, I think which have stood this front, we are focusing on traditional This helps provide some reassurance out for me, during the time I have been as well as the sun rise sectors. These that people are joining KPMG for the involved. include telecom, financial services, right reasons, after understanding what One, it helps establish a direction consumer markets, technology, infra and the firm is about and giving a thought for the firm – sets realistic goals and energy. In addition, as a professional to whether it would be meaningful for objectives, consistent with the purpose services firm, we are extremely proud to them to be a part of this journey. Value of the organisation, which can be clearly be working with the government on key alignment also helps build a strong communicated to its people. national priorities such as ‘Make in India’, brand. ‘Digital India’, ‘Start-up India’, ‘Ease of In terms of preparation, I think the best Two, facilitates synergies within existing Doing Business’, ‘Smart Cities Mission’, advice I can share with our country’s services and relationships – especially etc. Given the government’s reform- young talent is to reflect back on life in a business like ours. A well-planned based agenda, we hope to continue to thus far, and use examples from it to implementation exercise can help create play our role in nation building. The provide insights about their experience, real value by helping discover newer rapidly changing markets intensify the education and personality. There is ways to collaborate and engage. need for us to be seen as a go-to firm no better tool today than story-telling Three, and equally critical as the two within these sectors. and given how digitally savvy today’s above, if not more, it helps evaluates All this will require the support of our generations are, such skills can always progress, while also providing a basis sharp talent, and a hawk’s eye on be learnt. for judging the quality of progress being internal efficiency and organizational made. building processes such as hiring and There are of course several ‘collateral’ training. advantages which can be felt, and some B &ED: There are many young of these may be intangible. Like it brings people who aspire to work for a more focus to meetings, helps deal with brand such as KPMG in India. In looking“ for people to conflict effectively, and most of all, a What are the qualities you look for hire, you look for three motivated workforce showing up at work in the youngsters and what is your every day. advice or suggestion to them for job qualities: integrity, preparedness? B &ED: Please share some of intelligence and energy. the growth initiatives planned for the I recently read a quote from Warren And if they don’t have coming year for KPMG in India? Buffet – “In looking for people to hire, you look for three qualities: integrity, the first, the other two In the market we are currently operating intelligence and energy. And if they don’t in, disruptions are coming from different will kill you. have the first, the other two will kill you.” directions – be it the technological change, transforming business Nothing sums it up better than this.
19 October-November 2017 The AdmirableAdmiral Admiral Arun Prakash (Retd.) shares deep insights about strategic partnerships and the changing role of the Indian Navy
Directorate of Strategy, Concepts and Transformation, in Delhi and a Flag Officer, Doctrines and Concepts in Mumbai; in order to encourage creative doctrinal thinking. To bring sharper focus on our Foreign Cooperation and Naval Diplomacy initiatives, these portfolios were consolidated under a newly created 2-star Admiral in NHQ. Given India’s huge potential and its positive growth trajectory, the country is on the threshold of major regional power status. The compulsions of globalization, economics and trade, as well as, energy supplies have made India Rafale Flight Istres 2005 totally dependent on the seas around “The woods are lovely, dark and deep, the Indian Navy (IN), I would say that it. ‘Maritime Security’ and ‘Maritime but I have promises to keep, and miles it was a most satisfying, and fulfilling Power’, have, thus, assumed primacy in to go before I sleep”. I was reminded of experience; full of challenges and our national security matrix. Our navy these lines by Robert Frost as I walked excitement. Being a naval aviator, I spent is poised to grow into a modern and out of the beautiful home of Admiral my early years in flying assignments; professional maritime force which will Arun Prakash (Retd). The home itself from the aircraft-carrier and ashore, have a significant impact on the regional is a tribute to his love for Aviation and and then went on to command several balance-of-power. the Indian Navy as it is recreates the warships (including an aircraft-carrier). What is the role of the military in feel of a ship and an aircraft all at once. In higher ranks, one was privileged to implementing the country’s foreign A cup of tea with an Admiral is indeed head different branches of the Navy and policies? a special privilege and in the true command fighting formations in the In India, the military plays no role in tradition of an Officer and a Gentleman, field. formulation of any policy, but if used he was gracious and hospitable The evolution of the IN has been a judiciously, it can be a very useful as B & ED discussed his illustrious continuous process, and the Service and potent instrument of state policy. career, the changing role of the Indian is fortunate that it had a visionary Unfortunately, there is inadequate Navy, Maritime Strategy and India’s leadership, post-independence, which comprehension of the utility of this tool relationships with China and the US in charted a path for its growth. During and it remains under-employed. an exclusive interview with Consulting my tenure at the helm, I attempted an For example, concerns are frequently Editor Meenakshi Sharma. intellectual renaissance of the IN, which voiced about China’s ‘string of pearls’ Having served as CNS in the Indian would streamline the strategic planning and, the more recent, ‘Belt & Road Navy, how do you look back on your process of the navy, and bring logic Initiative’ strategies. The challenge, journey and visualize the evolving role to hardware acquisition programmes. for India, lies in crafting long-term of the Navy today? Having generated a Maritime Doctrine alternatives based on economics, Looking back at the 40 years I spent in and Strategy, we constituted a
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bureaucracy. These issues are being in a number of industries that has ironed out. After the navy’s sterling contributed to a debt crisis in the performance during the 2004 tsunami, country, while also leading to frictions India’s neighbours expect prompt abroad as other countries accuse China assistance in times of natural calamity. of dumping products at below-market India has been trying to give substance rates in a scramble to recoup falling to its vision of the Indian Ocean as a profits. The overcapacity problem is unified geo-political space by creating a symptom of China’s earlier policies multi-lateral forums. An example is the where government investment in key Indian Ocean Rim Association (IORA) sectors built capacities far beyond formed in 1997, with trade and economic demand. cooperation as objectives; another is the Future investment and trading patterns Indian Ocean Naval Symposium (IONS), in the Indo-Pacific are going to be initiated by the Indian Navy in 2008 to shaped by China’s emerging ‘Belt & bring together the IOR navies. These Road Initiative’. However, there are Admiral Arun Prakash, PVSM, AVSM, bodies have great potential and will disagreements about the intentions VrC, VSM, ADC served as the Chief soon find great regional resonance. behind it and its possible consequences. of Naval Staff and is one of India’s While some countries welcome it most decorated naval officers. How will China be shaping the business as a source of investment in their He retired as India’s 20th Naval and economy of the Indo Pacific and the infrastructure, that they cannot afford Chief and Chairman Chiefs of Staff world? themselves, other see the initiative as Committee in 2006. An aviator by Since initiating market reforms in 1978, mercantilist and exploitative, in its fine specialisation, during his 40 year China has shifted from a centrally- print. India has rejected participation career, he also logged over 2500 planned to a market-based economy on the grounds that it does not respect hours in fighters, patrol aircraft and and has seen rapid economic and India’s sovereign territorial claims in the helicopters. A graduate of the IAF social development. Before it slipped context of the China-Pakistan Economic Test Pilots School, Defence Services to ordinary levels, China’s GDP growth Corridor. Staff College and the US Naval War had averaged over 10% a year for nearly College, . During he was awarded three decades; the fastest sustained China plans to spend roughly $150bn the Vir Chakra while flying with an expansion by a major economy in a year in the 68 countries that have IAF fighter squadron in the 1971 history. Having lifted more than 800 signed up to the scheme. By investing War. Post retirement, he served two million people out of poverty, China, in infrastructure, China hopes to find a terms as a member of the National however, remains a developing country profitable destination for China’s huge Security Advisory Board and was because its per capita income is still a foreign-exchange reserves. It also hopes Chairman of the National Maritime fraction of that in advanced countries. to create new markets for Chinese Foundation. He lives in Goa, and companies, and to export some of his China was formally admitted to the WTO writes and speaks on strategic and country’s vast excess capacity in cement, only in 2001 and had, then, undertaken security related topics. steel and other metals. By investing in to offer greater market access to its Indo-Pacific countries it hopes to create agriculture, manufacture and service geo-politics and hard as well as soft- a favourable sphere of influence and sectors by bringing its domestic laws power. The navy certainly has a role ensure the safety of its sea lanes while and trade-related measures into because smaller neighbours seek bolstering its outrageous territorial conformity with WTO rules. It was WTO maritime security; either through direct claims in the South China Sea. membership that enabled China to naval presence, or through requests for become fully integrated into the global You are a prolific writer and comment material aid, training assistance and on world affairs. What else keeps you market and unleashed its potential as advice. engaged post retirement in a place like a trading power. However, it has often Goa. In the past, our response to such failed to comply with WTO norms, to the requests has not always prompt; due to discomfort of its trading partners. When I am not swimming in the sea or difference of perceptions between the playing golf, I read and write; and speak China suffers from a capacity glut navy, the diplomats and the defence at various armed forces institutions.
21 October-November 2017 A Healthier & FITTER LIFE
CEO, Amway India, Mr.Anshu Budhraja stresses on the importance of dietary supplements to ensure a better quality of life.
Given the demands of modern-day life, how are dietary supplements enabling people to live fuller, better lives? The human body must get a certain amount of nutrients on a daily basis. Every vitamin, mineral and protein has a certain function in our body and all these are essential for a Anshu Budhraja healthy body. Above all, dietary needs should be achieved by consuming many different foods. However, since most people cuts both ways. From gym, club memberships, health apps, to do not get the recommended amount of vitamins, minerals, adoption of supplements, consumers are indulging themselves or proteins from their diet, dietary supplements help protect to keep themselves fitter. against nutritional deficiencies and provide sustained health benefits. Additionally, several studies conducted around the Nutrilite has had an amazing journey of growth world on the intake of dietary supplements point to the benefit of having direct monetary value as well. in Asia and across the world. Do tell us a bit For instance, in the 2013 to 2020 time frame, there is a potential more about this. of saving $4 billion in the United States, just by introducing A jewel in the Amway stable of brands is Nutrilite. Today an Omega 3 supplement in the diet. If we add Europe to this, globally, Nutrilite is a $4 billion brand and we take immense it will be another 13 billion euros in the four year timeframe pride in having perfected the plant based approach to from 2016 to 2020. Globally, governments also understand that dietary supplementation. It is this scientific approach that prevention of diseases brings about a hefty saving by avoiding has established Nutrilite as the world’s top selling, rather the expenses on secondary and tertiary care treatments. number one vitamins and dietary supplements brand. The The strength of the wisdom in age-old adages and proverbs is driving reason for Nutrilite to be a global leader is that it is the immense and we at Amway firmly believe that prevention is only global vitamin and mineral brand to grow, harvest and indeed better than cure. Prevention is better than cure is one process plants on its own certified organic farms. of the most famous proverb which is a big example to us in Nutrilite has a history that dates back to the early decades of our daily life. It teaches us to maintain a healthy, disciplined, the 20th century when a man by the name Carl Rehnborg, set and tension free lifestyle. This global push towards prevention out on a mission. He realized that plant based compounds
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played a crucial role in nutrition. His work led to the In keeping with Nutrilite’s strong belief in the goodness of development of a unique food supplement which could fill the phytonutrients and the use of only the best sources, many of nutritional gaps in a person’s diet. the plant concentrates that go into Nutrilite products come Over the years, Nutrilite has pioneered the plant-based from its own farms or Nutrilite certified farms. Nutrilite is the approach to dietary supplementation through phytonutrients, only global vitamin and dietary supplement brand to grow, as they provide key health benefits. Phytonutrients are the harvest and process plants on their own certified organic organic compounds found in plants that offer a range of health farms**. Nutrilite owns nearly 6,000 acres of organic farm land benefits and promote healthy aging. They play an important in Mexico, Washington and Brazil. Nutrilite conducts more role in supporting immune, brain, bone, joint and eye health — than 25,000 tests each month and more than 500,000 quality as well as supporting energy production. evaluations are performed each year for product purity and quality. While it is best to eat whole fresh fruits and vegetables whenever possible, Nutrilite products help fill the nutritional Today the Nutrilite brand offers a complete range of food/ gap which arises due to inadequate intake of fruits and health supplements and other products designed to address vegetables that one needs and what one actually is able to eat the nutritional needs of different age groups and has a in the form of natural plant ingredients. presence in more than 60 countries across the world.
**Source: Euromonitor International Limited. Based on a 2016 review of global Vitamin and Dietary supplement manufacturers, their ownership of the entire production process, from farm to manufacturing, in addition to organic certification of products. Euromonitor does not accept or assume responsibility to any third party in respect to this claim.
23 October-November 2017
In pursuit of the greater GOOD
United Way Delhi (UWD) is the local chapter of United Way Worldwide, one of the largest non-profit organisations of the world engaged with more than 1800 communities across more than 41 countries.
United Way Delhi (UWD), a non-profit organization working for the local community through innovative programs in education, healthcare, environment and livelihood is led by Sachin Golwalkar who is CEO, United Way of Delhi. Golwalkar tells B &ED about the vision of United Way Delhi, the highlights of the journey and the corporate connect which helps them fulfil their objectives.
Tell us about the UWD vision and journey. United Way Delhi’s journey started with small but unique interventions from the very first year of inception i.e.: 2008. Gradually the organisation matured and grew over time, so did the dynamics and demographics of project. Smaller piece meal initiatives metamorphose into larger community centric interventions that strengthened the very foundation of the organisation and gave a direction towards creating a larger common good. United Way Delhi handled a variety of diversified portfolio of projects, like projects soft skill session with Delhi Police, Mobile Science Lab, and community centric interventions like Evening Health Clinic and Livelihood projects understand the concerns of the communities we operate in, gave the much needed impetus towards overall growth of the identify critical issues and develop implementable strategies organisation and an identity to stand out tall among the many. and work towards eliminating the root cause of the problem and not just the symptoms, thus maximizing the return on investment and achieving specific and measurable results. To How did United Way deal with the challenges achieve such results, we actively mobilize resources (financial, in India due to the diversity and size of the human and in-kind support) through donors and keep their country? interests connected to the programs that are implemented. Our fundamental approach to fulfilment revolves around our belief that to truly bring about sustainable change in our A corporate connect is a very important part communities we must build synergies and work in partnership of the work you are doing. Please share some of with NGOs, Foundations, Corporate bodies, Government and these connections which have strengthened over Volunteers, thus collectively achieving more than any one organization could do by working alone. We endeavour to time?
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Corporate connect is an integral part of our approach. There are several example that can be cited here which started as a short term association but went on to become a long lasting mutual relationship. United Technologies Corporation is one such dynamic organisation with whom United Way of Delhi had a very long lasting partnership. UTC came on board for a small Health initiative to start with in Gurugram which later on became a full-fledged health and Project UMANG community development project and What are the future plans for eventually the project diversified into women from marginalised communities improvement of school infrastructure, in certain pockets in Delhi - NCR region. United Way Delhi Chapter and soft skills training, skill development The project is showing huge impact on how are you gearing up for the and vocational training taking clue with the lives of the target beneficiaries and same? the changing times, CSR scenario and Cargill being a responsible business UWD is in the process of complete national employment trends. organisation have officially appreciated overhauling of its own processes and With Deloitte, a major financial commendable efforts of UWD into human resources to meet up with the and compliance organisation, the making the initiative a success. upcoming challenges of venturing into partnership is largely based on two There are quite a few other corporate new and larger terrains with a much things, employee volunteering and who have shown faith in UWD’s bolder and robust approach towards improvement of child friendly school capacity to implement path breaking finding a holistic solution to the same infrastructure. development projects, like, GENPACT, social issues. UWD aims to double its Cargil, the international nutrition Carrier India, SBI Cards, Amway India, turnover in next five years and quadruple sector giant have been supporting Flour Daniel, Carlson Group to name a its area of operation with a new and UWD on livelihood, skill development few organisations. dynamic human resource to support and entrepreneurship development of with fulfilling its larger mission.
25 October-November 2017
Student Education and Accommodations in
DUBAI by Shivani Yadav
Dubai, a multi-cultural global city with tourism, real estate, spring and autumn semester for shared accommodation and financial services being the major sectors of the economy. provided in Jebel Ali Gardens. BITS Pilani, Dubai charges AED Education is the new emerging segment with many Indian 40,000 (₹ 7 lakh approx.) per year as hostel fees (which also and international institutions setting up their campuses. includes an internet facility fee). Hence Dubai is fast becoming one of the most sought after Other institutes in Dubai offering hostel facilities to students destinations among International students. Learning is are American University, Canadian University of Dubai, Dubai comparatively less expensive because of the education Medical College for Girls, Dubai Pharmacy College, Emirates policies of Dubai. Due to huge development in the area of Academy of Hospitality, Etisalat Academy, Heriot-Watt infrastructure, trade and commerce, the possibilities of finding University, Institute of Management Technology (IMT), Manipal an on-the- job training is easier. University, Middlesex University etc. Of course, in order to The qualification for admission to any university with a campus secure a place in an on-campus hostel, registration formalities in Dubai is the same as in their country. The documents should be completed as early as possible as rooms are limited required are original or certified copy of the degree or and issued on a first-come-first-served basis. There are certain certification and proof of English language proficiency (results Dubai universities that give preference to first year female from IELTS & TOEFL Tests). Similarly, Indian students of the students. CBSE or ISC board must fulfill the English language requirement Quite a few Dubai universities and institutes offer student by obtaining the cut off score specified in IELTS and TOEFL or accommodation. They also tie-up with local hotels or service securing 70% marks in their English examination. apartments to offer rooms at cheaper rates to their students. One very important aspect for students who take admission Unfortunately, if your university does not provide any of the here is suitable student accommodation, especially on- above, you are left to look for accommodation in Dubai on campus accommodation, which tend to be cheaper and safer. your own. The cost of private apartments on rent in Dubai (on Most academic institutes have the option of on-campus and monthly basis) is AED 5,000 - 7,000 for 1 bedroom. This amount off-campus accommodation. The problem with on-campus includes furnishings, utilities, internet, and satellite TV service. accommodation is that these generally are limited and It does not include transportation to/from the campus or any often students have to look for other options. On-campus other deposits. Utilities may not always be included in the rent accommodation fee for an undergraduate student on a sharing and will cost extra. Shared accommodation is a solution to basis can be anything from AED 27,560 to AED 33,075. If you the expensive cost of renting private accommodation. Rental opt for a single room, the charges go up. for shared accommodation may be somewhere between AED Another fact to be pointed out is that for on-campus 4,500-6,500 per month, based upon the location and number of accommodation the price range of all universities is quite people sharing the accommodation. similar, whereas in case of off-campus accommodation, the A more convenient and practical solution to this problem is prices fluctuate depending on the services and facilities you privately owned Student Accommodations. The DSOA student want. accommodation in the heart of Dubai Silicon Oasis is one such Some universities in Dubai have the option of off-campus place that provides students with a safe, secure and affordable residential and hostel facilities. The University of Wollongong place to live. Professionally managed, the accommodations charges AED 14,600 (₹ 2.6 lakh approx.) per semester for the have been designed to provide everything that students may need to make their life as easy as possible.
26 Business & Economic Diplomacy The Korean
Connection by Rikeesh Sharma Culinary delight descended from the Land of the Morning Calm at Gurgaon through the deft hands of Chef Park and Chef Andy from Korea as Le Meridien, Gurgaon hosted a Korean Food Festival for Indian. The idea turned out to be a resounding success as Indian gourmands lapped up the hot station menu. Jellyfish Salad
gari. They emphasized that while Korean cuisine was largely based on rice, vegetables and meats, there was equal emphasis on side dishes which complement the main course in a healthy manner. They also reiterated that the cuisine had descended from the Korean royal house and hence, was replete with taste, fresh ingredients and umami flavours. HEALTHY AND TASTY Elements of the traditional full Korean meal, the Hanjoungshik, were put up for tasting. The Chicken Soup had finely shredded chicken spread like gossamer silk on a clear broth with no lipoprotein froth, excellent in taste and health in every sip. The crackling pork belly was also worth a taste, a trifle bland if had by itself, but an absolute gem when coupled with the spicy plum sauce. The winner however, was the Bibimbap, a bowl of Korean Promotion Chefs warm white rice served with sautéed vegetables, seaweed and KOREAN CHEFS a distinct peanut sauce. The non vegetarian version had a fried egg topping, a la American Chopsuey, but way more healthy. The two chefs from Korea found it endearing that their India counterparts at the hotel wanted to be part of everything The Korean version of the sautéed prawns danced a tango with they cooked up and were eager to learn the Korean dishes the tangy dip and the braised marinated pork was succulent from the Korean masterchefs in spite of the obvious language and crisp to taste. They were ably supported by the delicate challenges. When asked about menu customization for the herb flavoured and soy sauce imbued lamb chops grilled Indian palate, the chefs candidly admitted that they had to to perfection. The chefs also knocked up an ensemble of tweak the Korean flavours a tad by adding a little more salt mushrooms wherein the taste of the mushroom stems and and spice and by substituting certain meats to defer to local mushroom buttons were enticingly different, but united in customs showcasing culinary diplomacy at its best. taste. The accompanying glass noodles and stir fried seaweed were a feast for the eyes and the tongue and served as an epic KOREAN SUSHI reminder of the richness of the Korean repast. Their desserts The chefs also showcased their sushi prowess by putting up too were health oriented and lacked over sweetness. The Gimbap which differs from Japanese sushi in using sesame oil stir fried crispy sweet potato tossed in honey and the walnut and salt in the rice instead of vinegar, sugar and salt. They used chocolate mousse were light in calories and heavy on taste the traditional short grain rice and seaweed to make succulent ensuring that they brought a whiff of Korean calmness into our and sweet rice vinegar rolls and maki served with wasabi and frenetic lives.
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Food Freaks honour their favourite Restaurants Gurgaon’s biggest and most popular food awards – “The Big The evening started off with a bang with live performance F Awards” concluded its fourth season with a flourish and of Bollywood’s famous playback singer Neha Bhasin (Jag much fanfare. The glittering evening witnessed many well Ghoomya Fame). There was also The Big F Awards special known names not just from the F&B industry, but from the which honoured the people who have put in hours of hard entertainment industry as well. The panel of judges, gracing work to make spaces succeed, from the best-in-house PR the occasion consisted of acclaimed chefs Manjit Gill, Kunal professionals, to the Talented Young Bartender, to the Debutant Kapoor, and Saby Gorai, while the critics included food of the Year, as well as the Restaurant of the Year 2017 and the historian, Osama Jalali, author and columnist - Anoothi Restaurateur of the Year 2017. The jury specially felicitated Vishal, well-known critic Rinku Madan and the food writer and Chef Sanjeev Kapoor for becoming a Padma Shri. founder of The Big F Awards, Indian Food Freak and Gurgaon The Big F Awards followed a stringent short listing process that Food Freak, Pawan Soni. went through various stages. Winners were declared across five The top chefs of India, Padma Shri awardee Sanjeev Kapoor contenders in each category. was the guest of honour and other special Chefs included • TJury’s Choice awards where the jury selected Amrita Raichand, Manish Mehrotra, Manisha Bhasin, Rakesh their own winners in each category with each jury Sethi, and Saransh Goila at the award function where over member having one vote. 95000 votes were casted by public through the web poll system. Other renowned people from the culinary industry who graced • TPopular Choice awards where the nominated the event were Zorawar Kalra, Rocky Singh, Ashish Singh, and contenders were awarded through a public voting Siddharth Talwar amongst others. system.
Pawan Soni, Anoothi Vishal, Osama Jalali, Rinku Madan, Manish Mehrotra, Amrita Raichand, Rocky Singh
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Amrita Raichand, Pawan Soni, Neha Bhasin, Aradhna Bhalla Soni
WINNERS Inderjeet Singh Banga, Saransh Goila, Anoothi Vishal, Osama Jalali, Jasmeet banga
CATEGORIES PEOPLE’S CHOICE JURY
INDIAN CUISINES
North Indian Dhaba, est 1986 Delhi Tappa by Punjab Grill Indian Regional Cuisine Soda Bottle Opener Wala Matamaal, and Coastal Reef
WORLD CUISINE
All Day Dining in a 5 Star Hotel Latitude (Vivanta by Taj) Spectra (The Leela Ambience) Café Café Delhi Heights Di Ghent Café Chinese Mamagoto The Kylin Experience European Chinese Prego – The Westin Zanotta (The Leela) Mediterranean Olive Bistro Zizo Other World Cuisine Hard Rock Café Yum Yum Cha
GURGAON SPECIAL
Biryani Biryani Blues Jolly Nizams Buffet Indian Grill Room Pirates of Grill Dessert Art (DeepaliModi), and Bake & Beyond Home Baker Sweet Nothings (Anu&Shruti) (Seema Jain Krishnan) Jayakrishna Foods (KavitaArvind) & Meat4U Home Chefs Shipra’s Kitchen (ShipraMathur) (Nalin Jha) Online & Offline Delivery Outlets with max World in a Box Sandwich & Sons seating of 10 guests Pizza Tossin Pizza NYC Pie QSR’s (Quick Service Restaurant) Chaayos Nukkadwala
NIGHTLIFE Rubicon Bar and Cigar Lounge (The Leela), and Best Stocked Wine & Whisky Bar The Wine Company Whisky Samba Micro Brewery Molecule Air Bar 7 Degrees Brauhaus Pub/Bar Prankster Manhattan Bar Exhange
29 October-November 2017 SWAN LAKE Russian Ballet Enchants India
by Anam Hamid
Pyotr Ilich Tchaikovsky’s Swan Lake is considered the lead role and Váňa Jan performed as Prince Siegfried. The quintessential, classic ballet of all time. It debuted in production saw over 40 people flying into India including the late 19th century at the Bolshoi Theatre in Russia, dancers and technical crew. While the ballet may be among but found its popularity some decades later through the the most performed in the world, this is the first time in reworked choreography of Marius Petipa and Lev Ivanov. decades that a classical ballet of such a scale has been performed in the capital. Swan Lake’s story originates from Russian and Germanic folk tales and tells the tale of princess Odette, who is Eager to glimpse this masterpiece so close to home, I turned into a swan by an evil sorcerer’s curse. The ballet is ventured out on a Saturday evening to see for myself if considered timeless for its showcasing of themes that have the legendary production lived up to its name. An eclectic resonated with and continue to speak to its audiences over crowd of all ages had come to attend and before entering the past two centuries: The eternal battle between good the hall, we were greeted by men and women in masks and evil, and love versus duty. and elaborate costumes walking arm in arm, setting the theatrical tone for the night. Production house Navrasa Duende collaborated with the Royal Russian Ballet to bring Swan Lake to India from This production of Swan Lake directed by Anatoliy 22-24 September 2017 at the Siri Fort Auditorium in New Kazatskiy was performed in four Acts, and through the two Delhi. Kozachenko Kateryna of Ukraine played the coveted hours of dance and drama, the audience was held riveted:
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this betrayal and flees, and the Prince finally realizes his folly and rushes after her. The ballet ends with the two reunited through the triumph of good over evil, and its immortal message of love indeed conquering all.
While the small size of the stage and use of recorded music instead of a live orchestra took away from a complete experience, yet Director Kazatskiy managed to maintain the classical nature of the performance, and the troupe brought alive the wide gamut of emotions that Tchaikovsky’s musical score is known for.
In a poignant story without words, it is the dancers’ vivid emotions and Tchaikovsky’s unforgettable and moving score that have such a profound effect on their audience time and again. The varied moods of the performance are as different as the title character’s white and black swan- there is light and darkness, there is the tenderness of newfound love and the pain of betrayal, there is sweetness and melody on one hand and cunning and deceit on the other.
The light steps of the ballerinas, their dainty movements and nimble footwork, the graceful turns, the majesty of each movement that conveyed so much emotion without a word spoken, set off by a grand music score and beautiful sets altogether made a grand spectacle indeed. To Kazatskiy, Swan Lake is a fantasy tale based on human emotions, which The ballet begins with a ballroom scene in which Prince Siegfried has to choose his bride. After much light-hearted would explain why audiences continue revelry he sets out with his companions to hunt and to relate to it to this day. That and chances upon Odette, the Swan Princess, who reveals her true form and explains the curse of the evil sorcerer. its message of ‘love conquers all’ will She can only be saved by the promise of true love and ensure that the ballet has universal eternal fidelity. The two fall in love and celebrate their union appeal for all time to come. joyously, and the prince invites her to a ball to marry her and reverse her spell. However, misfortune strikes as the sorcerer disguises his daughter as Odette at the ball, and the Prince confesses his love to the wrong woman. The audience holds their breath as the real Odette witnesses
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Jazz travels to GOA JIC’s Goa International Jazz Live Festival, arguably one of the most promising contemporary jazz festivals in the region, headlines Swiss jazz fusion pioneer Jojo Mayer along with his music collective NERVE. To be held at the Stone Water Eco Resort in Goa on the 9th and 10th of December, JIC’s Goa International Jazz Live Festival (GIJLF) is an experimental, up- tempo, funky celebration of jazz identified with diverse genres like punk, funk hip-hop, R&B and other forms of music. The 2017 edition of GIJLF bears witness to the fist-pumping, head- shaking music that has become synonymous with the Swiss- born genius Jojo Mayer along with fellow headliner and equally gifted trumpeter Eric Truffaz in collaboration with Mumbai- based ambient electronic musician Riatsu, and a stunning line-up of Indian and international acts that transcend diverse modern-day interpretations of jazz. Tickets and exclusive Festival Packages for GIJLF 2017 are available on the Jazz India Circuit website www.jazzindiacircuit.com. A Festival Package includes two Festival Passes, Airport Transfers, a double occupancy room with breakfast at the selected hotel, F&B coupons, a jam session with the in-house band, Acapella by the Bay and priority registration for activities like water sports and martial arts workshops. Listed by the Modern Drummer Magazine as one of the ‘50 Greatest Drummers of All Time’, Jojo Mayer has toured with Monty Alexander and backed up jazz legends such as Dizzy Urban Voyage Gillespie and Nina Simone. His signature style of blending simultaneously fresh and dance floor-ready. Match that with genres like drum ’n’ bass and jungle has made him a legend in Riatsu’s sea of ambient music that stretches from techno to his own right, having rocked most major jazz venues, including dark and that’s a heady concoction of jazz which is signature to the iconic Montreux Jazz Festival. Mayer headlines GIJLF JIC’s Goa International Jazz Live Festival. with his music collective NERVE, which evolved out of Jojo’s legendary party event ‘Prohibited Beatz’ in NYC during the Also performing are London-based ‘guerrilla jazz’ band Kefaya, late 90s. NERVE cross-pollinates premeditated formats with an eclectic group of immigrants, travellers and international real time-improvised music performances, bringing in jazz artistes seeking to find common ground between folk traditions traditions of innovation to the digital age. of the world and cutting-edge sound rooted firmly in the 21st century; The Latination, one of those rare, genuine Latin- Swiss-born trumpet player Erik Truffaz has gained prominence jazz acts in the country which blends salsa and rumba with in the international jazz community for fusing the post-beebop contemporary jazz, dance-compelling Afro rhythms with strong, and early fusion styles of trumpet legend Miles Davis with more sophisticated harmonic sounds and Caribbean melodies; Pol contemporary forms of music such as electronica, acid rock, Belardi’s Urban 5 which takes on a groove-driven, exciting and hip-hop. Truffaz’s musical synthesis is often nostalgic yet blend between jazz, soul, hip-hop and electronic music with
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Jojo Mayer
Erik Truffaz a colorful set of fresh, thriving original compositions; and yet another Swiss wonder, pianist Florian Favre in the Florian Favre Trio featuring compositions which are not only refined, intense, and imprinted with a mastered minimalism, but demonstrate a will to transverse stylistic barriers. The musical agility of his talented accomplices, Manu Hagmann (bass) and Arthur Alard (drums), allow the trio to exploit a rich palette which offers the opportunity for remarkable innovation. The GIJLF experience will be eclectic and special for attendees – the salty air and the gentle December sun, lush ocean-front vistas, picturesque festival hotels, jazz-lovers congregating at the sylvan Stonewater Eco Resort - the concert venue, a permeating sense of both languor and zest, the bustle of The Merry Melange: an artisanal food stall hub, the zing of sorpotel and xacuti washed down with chilled lager and bubbling golden wines, being spoilt for choice between jam and acapella sessions, water sports and martial arts, all finally building up to the delicious anticipation of the electrifying shows of some very heady contemporary jazz in the evenings. This will be a Pol Belardi weekend to savour and remember.
33 October-November 2017 Lifestyle WEEK
Bollywood diva mesmerized the audience as the showstopper for fashion designer duo, Falguni and Shane Peacock.
Pia Pauro
Celebrated models Laxmi Rana, Sonalika Sahay, Candice Pinto, Deepti Gujral, Donna Masih and others walked the ramp showcasing the work of the designers. While model Deepti Sati (Miss India 2014 finalist and actress) opened the show for Falguni and Shane Peacock, Anukriti Gusain (fbb Femina Miss Grand India 2017) closed the show for Designer Falguni & Shane Peacock with Diana Penty at Kohler designer Pia Pauro amidst a thunderous applause from the Delhi Times Lifestyle Week audience.
The 2-day premium lifestyle week was an extravagant affair The Kohler Delhi Times Lifestyle Week culminated on with labels, designers, models and celebrities like fashion a highly glamorous note with the gorgeous Diana Penty designer Jatin Kochhar, Charu Parashar, Rina Dhaka, TV walking the ramp as showstopper for the designer duos, actor Karan Vohra, stand-up comedian Amit Tandon, and Falguni and Shane Peacock. The splendid event held at actress Anshul Chauhan among others putting their best Andaz Delhi, a luxury lifestyle hotel by Hyatt, saw some of foot forward. the country’s biggest designers such as Rocky S, Mandira Wirk, Pia Pauro, Siddartha Tytler and Falguni and Shane Peacock, showcase their couture and prêt collections, which was greatly appreciated by the audiences.
Bollywood diva, Diana Penty mesmerized the audience as she walked the ramp as the showstopper dressed in a golden outfit for Falguni and Shane Peacock. The collection presented by the outstanding duo showcased their signature use of feathers, sequences and prints. While Pia Pauro’s collection, Wonderflip, presented by Sunar Jewels, plays with lots of colours, nomadic embroideries, layering and cool cotton fabrics to make those long hours of dancing comfortable; designer Siddartha Tytler’s collection crafted in black, earthy tones with highlights in gold was all about Siddartha Tytler Indian designs with a contemporary twist.
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