smart start MAY 2020

LIVE HEALTHY, STAY FIT

Quarantine fi tness

Sustainable menstruation Understanding sepsis One on one with Chef Chinu Vaze

Nidhhi Agerwal Ready for action LIVE HEALTHY, STAY FIT Letter from the Editor VOLUME NO.10 • ISSUE NO. 04 MAY 2020

EDITOR Philip Mathew CHIEF ASSOCIATE EDITOR & DIRECTOR Riyad Mathew SUBEDITOR Oshin Grace Daniell SENIOR CORRESPONDENTS Priyanka Bhadani, Pooja Biraia Jaiswal Confucius once said, “Our greatest glory is not in never falling, but in ART EDITOR M.T. Jayakrishnan rising every time we fall.” The lockdown may have fl attened our spirits but it gave us space to introspect, take a breather and, probably, come out stronger. DESIGN Sujesh K. With quarantine trending on social media, many are trying to stay peachy Ajeesh Kumar M., Sumesh C.N. amid the tension. From daily vlogs on skin care, cooking hacks and even long- EDITORIAL forgotten hobbies, celebrities have made use of the opportunity to pick up Karthik Ravindranath, new interests and, in the process, increase their fan following. Apart from the Reuben Joe Joseph, Nirmal Jovial glitterati, athletes are also into vlogging quarantine workout and diet regimes. PHOTO RESEARCH Head to Fit Bit to read about how some of the Red Bull athletes are spending Bimal Nath C., Jomy M. Joseph their time during the lockdown. From their diet to even their reading list, we BUSINESS OFFICES have got it covered. Apart from the panic associated with the virus and the frustration of being VARGHESE CHANDY, BANGALORE VICE PRESIDENT, MARKETING, RANJIT KURIAN, REGIONAL stuck at home, this period also brought about a lack of fresh food supplies. ADVERTISING SALES CHIEF GENERAL MANAGER, Although many have spoken about sustainable living in the past, it is only now OOMMEN P THARAKAN, MARKETING DEPUTY GENERAL MANAGER, PRAVEEN GOPINATHAN, that most people got the complete essence of the concept. Read about gourmet MARKETING REGIONAL DEPUTY GENERAL chefs who have made sustainable cooking their mantra and how they have MANAGER, MARKETING NEW DELHI reduced their carbon output by acquiring food locally. And it is not just cooking, ATUL ARORA, KOLKATA DEPUTY GENERAL MANAGER, MANORANJAN ANANDAN, we also have a story on sustainable menstruation—menstrual products which MARKETING DEPUTY GENERAL MANAGER, do not produce waste. MUMBAI MARKETING SHREE KUMAR MENON, HYDERABAD In this issue, we have our cover girl Nidhhi Agerwal talking about her RESIDENT CHIEF GENERAL ABRAHAM T GEORGE, journey into the fi lm industry. From her fi rst movie Munna Michael to her box MANAGER REGIONAL DEPUTY GENERAL PARNA CHATTERJEE, MANAGER, MARKETING offi ce hit iSmart Shankar, the 25-year-old actor has evolved both personally and HEAD SALES, LUXURY COIMBATORE professionally. “People’s opinions constantly change with time and it is mostly MAGAZINES, WEST RAJESH NAIR K, CHENNAI DEPUTY GENERAL MANAGER, based on one’s last performance. I think it is about time we rise above it. Every- SURESH K C, REGIONAL CHIEF MARKETING thing is a journey. It is never about the destination, so just enjoy your journey,” GENERAL MANAGER, MARKETING PUNE she says. Her Kollywood debut Bhoomi was supposed to be released on May 1, JOHN SUDHIR ABRAHAM, AMARNATH JOSHI, SENIOR MANAGER, MARKETING SENIOR MANAGER, MARKETING but the lockdown has delayed it. “I can confi dently say that I performed excel- lently well in Bhoomi; it is a kind of role that I have never done before. I can’t For Advertising inquiries: [email protected] or call: +919895395097 wait for people to watch it,” she says. In One Shot, chef Chinu Vaze talks about her favourite season and some CIRCULATION food memories associated with it. She has also shared some summertime M. RAJAGOPALAN NAIR, HARI M. VARRIER, recipes. VICE PRESIDENT, CIRCULATION GENERAL MANAGER, SALES So, get your chef cap on, make yourself some mango colada and enjoy this SUMIT DEVASSY, SENIOR MANAGER, CIRCULATION issue of Smart Life. Subscriptions: For all subscription-related inquiries Stay safe, stay healthy and, most of all, stay at home. please write, email or fax to Manager, Circulation, Malayala Manorama, PB No. 4278, Panampilly Nagar, Kochi-686 036 Kerala, India. Email: [email protected] or call: +919895395024 Printed at Malayala Manorama Press, Kodimatha, Kottayam-686039 and published from Manorama Buildings, Panampilly Nagar, Kochi-682036 by Jacob Mathew, on behalf of the Malayala Manorama Co.Ltd., Kottayam-686001. Editor: Philip Mathew. Reproduction in any form is prohibited. Feedback: [email protected]

MAY 2020 • SMART LIFE 3 MAY 2020

LIVE HEALTHY, STAY FIT

Quarantine fitness

Sustainable menstruation Understanding sepsis One on one with MAY Chef Chinu Vaze

Nidhhi Agerwal Ready for action CONTENTS PHOTOGRAPH BY FARROKH CHOTHIA 2020 42 30 PAUSE 30 Sustainability Ahoy: Top fi ve cooks in the country go gourmet with local produce

EXHALE 52 What I Ate Today: Actor Alina Rai talks about her diet and fi tness

SMILE 60 It’s A Wrap: Overcoming the fear of heights 54 ON THE COVER 14 Doc Talk: All about sepsis , the silent killer of pregnant 38 women 18 Fit Bit: Athletes on their quarantine fi tness and diet SMART START regime

6 Ink Away: Ways to get a tattoo removed 38 Green Way: Menstrual products which do not 8 Quick Bites: Lucid dreaming, super food produce waste mung beans and more 42 Cover Story: Actor Nid- 10 Why My Life Is Smart: Singer Rahul Jain on hhi Agerwal talks about her how things happen at the right time passion for acting and her desire to work in multilingual 12 Eat Right: Tips to boost immunity projects

54 One Shot: Chef Chinu Vaze INHALE shares her favourite summer- time recipes 24 Viral Load: All about life beyond the pandemic

FOCUS/IN FOCUS FEATURES ARE MARKETING/PR INITIATIVES

4 SMART LIFE • MAY 2020 MAY 2020 • SMART LIFE 5 smart start

removed as well as the technique and technology used.

How exactly tattoo removal works Unlike a laser pointer that produces a continuous beam of light, tattoo removal lasers produce pulses of light energy. Each pulse of energy goes to the skin, making contact with the tat- too ink. Th e ink is broken down to par- ticles small enough for the lymphatic system to dispose of it and the body then begins to absorb the broken ink and fl ush it out. It generally takes 10-20 sittings for the tattoo to be removed, but there is always a possibility that the results could be less than satisfactory. However, you should know that there are many factors that could aff ect how the tattoo will react to the treatment. Some of the reasons can include the age of the tattoo, its placement and the ink used .

Th e treatment might sting a little Tattoo removal is not completely pain-free. Mentally prepare yourself for sittings which are more than just Clean slate laser treatments. Tattoo removal is uncomfortable, but there are a lot of Do you have a tattoo that you are not proud of? methods to minimise this, like numb- There are ways to get rid of it ing creams and ice. Th e placement of the tattoo determines how much pain BY SUNNY BHANUSHALI and discomfort you may feel. In the past, tattoo ‘removal’ just meant leaving a weird outline where the he stigma of having and get- So, if you are a not-so-proud owner of tattoo used to be hoping for the best. ting tattoos seem to have some regrettable ink from your teens Th anks to new and growing laser tech- Tdisappeared in the last decade, or you just want to get rid of an old tat- nology, they can now be fully erased. bringing tattoos into the mainstream too to make room for a new one, there culture. But there are some who are is a way. What to expect once your tattoo still worried about getting a tattoo But before you book your appoint- is removed because it is permanent. However, ment, you should probably know what After the treatment, it is normal to with the advancement of technology, you are getting yourself into. expect the area to be red, swollen and tattoo removal is not only becoming bruised. Some people experience blis- more eff ective but also a lot more Tattoos are easier to remove than tering and crusting as well. People go accessible and aff ordable. you actually think through discomfort for about a week Although there is an initial adora- A tattoo is a form of body art where ink post the treatment. Th e area needs to tion of the tattoo, some regret getting is inserted into the layer of skin where be covered in a salve and bandaged for inked later in their life. Especially if the pigment is retained. Contrary to a few days and then they start to scab the person had the name of a partner popular belief, in most cases, tattoos and peel. inked and then they break up, the are not permanent. However, this does Bhanushali is founder and celebrity tattoo tattoo would seem like a big mistake. depend on the ink and colours being artist at Aliens Tattoo Studio, Mumbai.

6 SMART LIFE • MAY 2020 Quick bites Registry for emotions super FOODof the month A new study by the Molecular Mind Laboratory (MoMiLab) at the IMT School for Advanced Studies, Lucca, Italy, unveiled a 3cm-area of the brain where emotions are registered. The study examined the correlation between data from two experiments measuring participant responses to the same movie. The fi rst experiment gathered self-reported emotional responses to each scene in the movie. The second gathered data from a brain imaging study that measured activated regions within the cortices of participants while they watched the movie. The ultimate aim of their study was to map and locate cortical regions where emotions are encoded. A topo- graphical map was generated by plotting the emotions of the participants. The map plots the arrangement of neural recep- tors within the body—which sense physiological sensations of emotion—with the distribution of neurons that represent the same functions within the cortical sensory regions of the brain. Mung beans This provided a picture of where certain bodily sensations are ❂ Commonly eaten in China and India, these beans have a tender tex- encoded in the brain. ture and a sweet nutty fl avour. It is high in potassium, iron and fi bre; it is also 24 per cent protein. ❂ It is high in antioxidants, including phenolic acids, fl avonoids and cin- namic acid, that reduces the risk of chronic diseases. The antioxidants A new beat neutralises potentially harmful molecules known as free radicals. Most people tend to listen to music when they are stressed. It is even ❂ Some experts say that mung beans prevent heat stroke as it is played during surgeries and other painful medical procedures as it is said believed to have anti-infl ammatory properties that protect the body to reduce pain-related distress. Going a step further, a new sound wave against high body temperatures and thirst. therapy is in the market—binaural beat therapy. It makes use of the fact ❂ It lowers bad LDL cholesterol levels and reduces heart disease risk. It that the right and left ear each receive a slightly different frequency tone, is also rich in potassium, magnesium and fi bre which reduces blood yet the brain perceives it as a single tone. The therapy is recommended pressure. for the treatment of anxiety, stress and related disorders. The pattern of the beats is divided into fi ve categories—delta, theta, alpha, beta and gamma—based on the frequencies (0.5-50Hz). Each category has a spe- cifi c benefi t. For example, theta patterns (4-7Hz) contribute to improved meditation, creativity and sleep in the rapid eye movement phase while alpha pattern (7-13Hz) promotes relaxation. Beta frequency range (13- 30Hz) promotes concentration and alertness.

Lucid dream Half asleep, half awake. You know that you are dreaming and also managed to get control over the narrative of that dream. This is called lucid dreaming. Typically, when we dream, we are Cat’s playlist not conscious that the dream is not real. However, some of us A new research fi nds that ‘cat-specifi c’ music, which speaks to the feline’s are able to enter a dream and be fully aware of the fact that we preferred tempo and vocal range, is best at reducing the animal’s stress are actually dreaming. Experts defi ne a lucid dream as a dream levels. Researchers at the School of Veterinary Medicine at Louisiana State during which dreamers, while dreaming, are aware they are University, in Baton Rouge, found that cats are responsive to the sound of dreaming. Lucid dreaming is certainly an attractive and fasci- music even when they are under general anaesthesia. They also found that nating prospect—being able to explore our own inner worlds cats prefer music made with cat vocalisations such as purring; they also Th e best way to guarantee with full awareness that we are in a dream state is intriguing have their own tempos and they prefer a normal vocal frequency. As part and has an almost magical fl avour about it. It is also therapeu- of the study, the researchers enrolled 20 domestic cats and played them 20 a loss is to quit. tic as it has the potential to help people with phobias, such as minutes of cat-specifi c music, classical music and no music. They also kept fear of fl ying or animal phobias including arachnophobia (the a check of the level of stress. The results showed that those cats that heard —MORGAN FREEMAN fear of spiders). the cat-specifi c music had lower stress levels than the others.

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Current projects Lessons learnt I’m working on Salman Khan’s fi lm Kaagaz, The best lesson I have learnt and imple- Gaziabad Ki Saroj starring Sana Kapoor mented in my life is that determination (sister of Shahid Kapoor) and a few and hard work are pivotal when it comes other fi lms. I’m coming up with a lot of to success. One should just focus on independent music from my own YouTube their goals and not let any failures of the channel, the fi rst one being ‘Badnaam’ past slow them down. My advise is—keep Don’t resist starring famous tiktoker Adnaan Shaikh going and don’t look back. and me. Staying  t Memorable times It is very simple—I walk whenever I can change I think it is the time that I spend with my and I have also started working out in family. There have also been so many fan the gym. I am trying to spend more time Singer Rahul Jain says he moments which were totally unexpected. doing some strength conditioning. Once when I was travelling in a fl ight, one I have also changed my diet completely. keeps evolving, both musically of the members of the cabin crew gave Now I try to eat more healthy food. But and personally me a handmade card with some sweet once in a while I have my cheat days. messages and my pictures. Apart from I think the key is to eat good food and this, I consider every journey involved in sleep more. making new music, memorable. A typical day why The greatest challenge Every day is different for me. One day I my It is to compete with myself every day. might be just travelling; boarding a fl ight life I set my own standards and never try from one city to another, listening to is to compare myself with anybody else. some good music, making new music and smart Another challenge is to keep deliver- meeting music lovers. Otherwise I spend ing good quality and fresh music for a good portion of my time playing my the listeners. guitar at the studio, trying to fi gure out new things. Strengths My biggest strength is my family and Ways to unwind their unconditional support. My fans I try doing some mindful meditation and are also my strength; I am who I am listen to soothing music. Eating choco- because of them. I am also confi dent late also helps me unwind. and I think that is very important in the music industry. Dream for the future My dream is to create excellent Weaknesses original melodies and bring about a I can get a tad too emotional at times. breakthrough in the current recreation Another weakness is food; I cannot culture. There is so much to offer and I resist good food. Then there are clothes will do it. and gadgets. His journey pursue music more seriously. Within no 1921, Jhootha Kahin Ka starring Rishi Love, Ye Pyar Nahi To Kya Hai and Why do you think your life is smart? I grew up in a music-loving fam- time—almost fi ve days after I arrived Kapoor and Jimmy Shergil and then, Mariyam Khan Reporting Live. I got What do you binge-watch? My life is smart because I am smart. I try ily. When I turned fi ve, I had already in Mumbai—I signed my fi rst fi lm as a Satish Kaushik’s award-winning regional popular mainly with my recreation on I hardly get time to watch anything amid to keep up with the changing times both started performing on stage. Then, composer, singer and songwriter. It was fi lm Choriyan Choro Se Kam Nahi Hoti. I YouTube for songs like ‘Tere Jaisa Yaar all my travelling, shows and work. But musically and personally. I don’t resist I continued being active in cultural the Bollywood movie, Fever, starring also did music for web series like Maya Kaha’, ‘Ye Dosti’, ‘Jab Koi Baat Bigadh sometimes, when I get some time to take change, I keep adapting to new things, programmes during my school and Rajiv Khandelwal and Gauhar Khan. 2 and Spotlight 2. Even TV shows were Jaaye’, ‘Pardesi’ and ‘Do Dil Mil Rahe a breather, I enjoy watching some thrillers without losing my own essence and that college days. On my last day of col- Then opportunities kept fl owing in. on my list—Bepannah, Beyhadh, Tu Hai’. I also got the opportunity to tour on Netfl ix. I also love cricket, so I try to is what I guess makes my life smart. lege, I decided to move to Mumbai to There were fi lms like Vikram Bhatt’s Aashiqui, Gathbandhan, Internet Wala globally for my concerts. watch matches whenever I can. As told to Oshin Grace Daniell

10 SMART LIFE • MAY 2020 MAY 2020 • SMART LIFE 11 smart start Eat Right

The great Indian masala box Fret not, for all that you need can be found in your kitchen. No household in our country will be without a masala box—the treasure chest of good health. Don’t think of it only as a fl avour enhancer, these spices are also your immunity boosters. Be it cumin, turmeric, tiny coriander seeds or fenugreek seeds, all of it works; just toss these spices in your food. Cook them in a good quality fat such as cow’s ghee to increase their bioavailability. Cow’s ghee eases a sore throat as it is a natural balm. Just sip on warm water with a bit of ghee and turmeric powder before sleep- ing. It coats your throat, keeping infections at bay.

THE Turmeric infusion Ingredients: ❯ ae ❯ ue e ½ s BATTLE ❯ ne agge s Method: ❯ e ae ❯ ue e an ne Hydro power ❯ ee INSIDE Water is at the top of the list. Touted as the elixir of life, drinking water It is a natural remedy for a sore throat and throughout the day helps in fi ghting the virus. Time to make warm chest congestion. It also has anti-infl ammatory Here are some tips to water your best friend. Th e hydration will allow mucous to fl ow freely, and anti-microbial properties. boost your immunity moisten your throat and fl ush out all and any toxins from the body. My tip is to gargle through the day with hot water and natural salts to keep Ginger infusion the throat squeaky clean. BY NAINI SETALVAD Ingredients: ❯ ae ❯ es gnge gae ½ n ❯ en ue s

ovid-19 has got us all on our toes Method: ❯ ae es gnge s an ss n and a lot of things are out of control. bng ae With the lockdown and telecom- Enter the plant kingdom ❯ ee n a u gans a sueee muting, most people are heading Starting from the tiny leafy greens to a rainbow of en Ctowards an erratic lifestyle. Surely, everybody vegetables, whole grains, pulses, nuts and seeds, nature Drink this everyday is aware about social distancing and meas- The king of all fruits has graciously given human beings an army to fi ght any ures to be taken in order to prevent any form It is mango season. Raw mango or infection. It is very important to eat plenty of food from of infection but most people have overlooked ripe mango, melon, phalsas and many Salt water the vegetable kingdom. I strongly endorse the statement, an important factor—immunity. Now, the other summer fruits are all packed Ingredients: “Eat from the plant kingdom and not what is made in a question is how do we boost our immunity? with vitamin C; just munch on them ❯ a ae gass plant.” So, it is time to say goodbye to processed foods. Th e answer is quite simple—through our diet. throughout the day. Squeeze lemon ❯ aua sas s Organic is the way to go. A strong immune system will not only aid in juice over the food that you consume ❯ ue e a n We have always fed our families with love, but now withstanding the virus attack now but also in or in your water as it is your best natu- Method: focus on feeding them with immunity boosting food. the future. ral source of vitamin C and it aids in ❯ M e naua sa an ue e n Focus on local and seasonal Indian food as they can help Here are some ways to bring some order strengthening your white blood cells; it e a ae in strengthening your immune system by fi ghting any into what might be now a shambolic immune is truly one of the essential nutrients to Gargle with this 2-3 times a day. viruses. system. help in fi ghting this virus. Setalvad is a nutritionist based in Mumbai. Got a question for Naini? Write to us at [email protected]

12 SMART LIFE • MAY 2020 MAY 2020 • SMART LIFE 13 smart start Doc Talk Sepsis, the killer One of the main reasons of maternal death is sepsis which kills young women with no obvious symptoms. But early detection can result in full recovery

BY DR PRATHIMA REDDY

id you know that women is not well tolerated. Especially if she can die during one of the bleeds excessively, she is at grave risk Risk factors most joyous events of their of succumbing to the blood loss. lives? Losing a young, fit Preeclampsia and eclampsia: These Some of the factors that trigger Dand healthy woman during pregnancy are conditions which are associated sepsis are: and childbirth can be devastating for with high blood pressure, fits, damage  Wrong handling of miscarriages. her loved ones. Maternal death, as to the kidneys and the brain. Especially if it is performed in unsterile conditions outside a this is called, refers to the death of a Abortion: If it is performed by health care facility woman while she is pregnant or within untrained personnel, it can give rise to  Cervical cerclage or “stitch” 42 days of termination of pregnancy, infection, bleeding and death.  Prolonged rupture of membranes irrespective of the duration and site of  Prolonged or obstructed labour the pregnancy, from any cause related Sepsis and its dangers  Complications of to or aggravated by the pregnancy or Sepsis is a life-threatening condition caesarean section its management but not from acciden- that arises when the body’s response  Infection following vaginal tal or incidental causes. to infection causes injury to its own deliveries, especially if conducted The maternal mortality rate (MMR) tissues and organs. If sepsis develops in unhygienic conditions outside in India is 130 maternal deaths per during pregnancy, during or after a health care facility, possibly 1,00,000 live births. In the western giving birth, or after an abortion, it is due to repeated unhygienic world it varies between three to 18 called maternal sepsis. vaginal examinations deaths per 1,00,000 live births. If not recognised early and treated  Assisted vaginal deliveries The main killers of women in this aggressively, it can rapidly progress to (forceps, vacuum) country are: multiple organ failure and death. One  Manual removal of placenta/ Haemorrhage: Excessive bleeding third of the people who develop sepsis retained bits of placenta after delivery or abortion after the delivery of the baby (or in die. Amongst those who survive, many  Mastitis pregnancy) can be life threatening. are left with chronic pain and fatigue,  If this is not recognised and treated post-traumatic stress disorder and Poor standards of hand washing and general hygiene in the days promptly, it can lead to severe damage. organ dysfunction. following delivery Sepsis: It refers to infection which Despite being highly prevent-  Urinary tract infection enters the blood and can happen dur- able, maternal sepsis continues  Pneumonia ing pregnancy or post-delivery. Sepsis to be a major cause of death and  Viral or bacterial illnesses is very insidious and can kill very morbidity for pregnant or recently quickly unless it is recognised early pregnant women. and treated aggressively. Anaemia: It refers to the haemoglobin Indian scenario accounts for 15 per cent of maternal or blood count being low. After deliv- Maternal sepsis is common in the deaths. It is estimated that maternal ery, a woman loses a certain amount developing world but is also a sig- sepsis accounts for 11-16 per cent of blood naturally. If the woman is nificant cause of maternal death in of maternal deaths in India. A study anaemic even this normal blood loss the developed world. Worldwide, it in rural Maharashtra put it down as

14 SMART LIFE • SMART LIFE 15 smart start

Warning signs Some of the symptoms of sepsis are:  Chills and shivering ABREAST OF LATEST TRENDS, DEVELOPMENTS  High temperature (over 38.3°C)  Very low temperature (less than 36°C)  Fast breathing or breathlessness  Headache  Severe abdominal pain  Excessive bleeding or foul- smelling discharge  Productive cough  Urinary symptoms like frequent urination, pain while urinating, blood in the urine  Extreme fatigue  Dizziness

greatest tragedies of the thousands of deaths caused by sepsis is that many of them could have been prevented.” It is clear from several studies that in the majority of women that died from sepsis, there was delay in diagnosis, treatment and in the escalation of treatment. Most the second largest cause of maternal heart rate and a low blood pressure. She women did not have a fever, possibly Myrrh not only smells good, mortality after haemorrhage. Studies was also breathing faster than normal delaying the recognition of the presence but it is also used to treat conducted in referral hospitals in and her oxygen level was suboptimal. of sepsis. a whole range of medical Andhra Pradesh concluded that it was Her temperature, however, remained The WHO recommends the following issues. It is widely used as an the main cause of maternal deaths in normal and she did not complain of measures to prevent sepsis: antiseptic in mouthwashes their series. any alarming symptoms. A working  Access to clean water and sanitation and toothpastes, keeping the diagnosis of sepsis was made and  Access to quality care during preg- mouth clean and smelling Case study relevant investigations were performed. nancy and birth nice. Ancient Egyptians used Thirty-year-old Beena Mathew, The blood tests confirmed sepsis.  Responsible and timely access to the myrrh and other essential pregnant for the third time, was at our Appropriate medical treatment was right medicines oils to embalm mummies, outpatient clinic in her 10th week of started immediately and aggressively.  Proper infection prevention and con- as the oils not only provide pregnancy. The previous two preg- She later delivered by a caesarean sec- trol in hospitals and clinics a nice scent but also slow nancies had ended in a spontaneous tion. She was monitored in the ICU by  Adequately trained and skilled decay. In the Biblical times, miscarriage at 18 weeks of gestation. a multidisciplinary team and after four health workers who can recognise myrrh incense—often in A diagnosis of cervical incompetence days, she made a full recovery. The baby the signs of sepsis and treat the combination with frankin- (a condition in which the mouth of the stayed in the NICU for six weeks and condition effectively cense—was burned in places womb—cervix—shortens and opens was discharged in good health. In addition to the above, good of worship to help purify the early, leading to miscarriages) was The above case illustrates how personal hygiene, regular changing of air and prevent the spread made and she underwent a cervical insidious sepsis can be. Here the sanitary napkins, not using tampons of contagious diseases, stitch at 16 weeks. At about 26 weeks patient did not have any obvious until advised to do so and washing hands including those caused by of pregnancy, she complained of pain complaints but close monitoring and before and after going to the toilet will bacteria. Tests over the past in the abdomen and was hospitalised a low threshold for diagnosing sepsis help reduce the incidence of sepsis. decade or so have shown that as there was a risk of pre-term labour. helped make early detection and avert Reddy, MBBS, MRCOG (London), myrrh can, in fact, lower LDL She was monitored closely and the a poor outcome. The cause of sepsis FRCOG (London), FACOG (USA), is the cholesterol (bad cholesterol) pains settled. in this case was most probably the director, senior obstetrician and in humans, whilst increas- At 27 weeks, routine bedside exami- cervical stitch. gynaecologist at Fortis La Femme Hospital, ing HDL cholesterol (good nation revealed an abnormally fast As the WHO puts it: “One of the Richmond Road, Bengaluru. cholesterol).

16 SMART LIFE MAY 2020 • SMART LIFE 17 inhale Fit Bit

High on energy Stuck at home but still want to stay fi t and do something productive? Here’s what some of In- dia’s top athletes are do- ing during the lockdown

COMPILED BY OSHIN GRACE DANIELL

Ashwini Ponnappa Badminton player who represents India in international circuits Ankit Panth Counter-Strike gaming professional, also known as ‘V3nom’ “A good cook now” I think the lockdown has helped me improve “Good at household chores” my cooking skills. I do give in to junk food here For starters, the lockdown has taught me to and there, but in moderation. I keep a tab on take household chores very seriously. I have my diet as I don’t burn as much as I would if been washing the dishes and sweeping the I had access to the gym and court. I work out fl oor regularly. When it comes to fi tness, I once in a day and I have got a set of 11 exer- focus on my core strength and cardio now. cises that I have been regularly doing. I mix Unfortunately, I cannot work on my muscles that up with some badminton drills. as I don’t have heavy weights at home so Diet: I don’t really do prior preparations for I am trying to increase my stamina and a meal. I pick a vegetable or lentils at home core strength during the lockdown. I also and fi gure out a recipe that I can do. Since I’m do a lot of pushups, burpees and practise cooking at home, it is mostly healthy with a surya namaskara. bit of junk occasionally. Diet: I have stopped eating eggs at the Reading list: The Champion’s Mind by moment due to availability problems. I have James A. Afremow, Pride and Prejudice by increased consumption of paneer (cottage Jane Austen cheese), lentils, chick peas and leafy salads. What to watch: The Last Dance, Contagion, Reading list: I don’t read a lot of books Free Solo, The Dawn Wall, She Was Pretty What to watch: Money Heist, Bard of Blood, (Korean) Made in Heaven and Narcos. One recipe that you whipped up during the One recipe that you whipped up during lockdown: The one I was most thrilled about the lockdown: Aloo khichdi was a radish chutney I made recently.

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Mira Erda Formula 4 racer “Finding new things to do” The one thing that I have picked up during the lockdown is that it is really easy to feel lazy every day because you don’t have much to do at home and after a while you start getting bored. Now I feel I keep pushing myself to fi nd differ- ent things to make my time productive. So, this is something that has changed for me, how I look at things in this period of lockdown and this just made me want to try different things every day. I try to do all kinds of body-weight training and few days in a week, I use light weights to keep the strength up. In the last few days, I have also been trying to work on my fl exibility and sometimes I do yoga to relax the body. Diet:I have been recently trying to eat light and nutritious food. There is not much change in my diet but I am having a lot of fruit and juice to keep myself hydrated and mostly I am eating green and beans. Reading list: The Magic of Thinking Big by David J. Schwartz, My Olympic Journey by Amit Bose and Digvijay Singh Deo, The Power of Your C. S. Santosh Subconscious Mind by Joseph Murphy Indian off-road and enduro motorcycle racer What to watch: Formula 1: Drive to Survive, Blacklist, The Game Changers, Gokarts, The “Better on-screen presence” Good Doctor I’d say the one thing that I did pick up dur- One recipe that you whipped up during the ing the lockdown is to be better on camera lockdown: Caramel custard pudding with the various promotional videos that I had to work on. I’m used to being active all day and it was essential for me to train sometimes two times a day. I happen to live on 45 acres and this allows me the freedom to be out in the sun. Diet: The only difference to my meal plan has been that I have primarily been a veg- etarian during the course of the lockdown. Reading list: The Rise of Superman by Steven Kotler, Siddhartha by Hermann Hesse, A Brief History of Time by Stephen Hawking, A Shot at History by Abhinav Bindra, Jaya by Devdutt Pattanaik What to watch: Troy, Gladiator, Rush, Million Dollar Baby, The Wolf of Wall Street One recipe that you whipped up during the lockdown: Almond milkshakes with local fruits and nuts and berries.

20 SMART LIFE • MAY 2020 MAY 2020 • SMART LIFE 21 inhale

Manpreet Singh Captain of the national men’s fi eld hockey team “Fitness fi rst” I have been focusing on maintaining my strength and body weight. I enjoy working out at home but hate that I don’t have the required equipment. Nevertheless, I have been trying several body- weight exercises to keep my strength at peak levels.

Some exercises that I follow regularly: Push-ups: This is one of the simplest exercises that can be performed on an open fl oor. The starting position is to support your body on your palms and toes with arms at full extension. Slowly lower your body till your chest is a few inches off the ground with your elbows tucked comfortably into your body. Lift yourself back up to the starting position and repeat. This helps me build my biceps and strengthens my arms. Lunges: From a standing position, extend one foot behind you and drop your body till your front knee is at a 90-degree angle and back knee is a few inches above the ground but not touching. Lift yourself back up, return to the standing position and repeat with the other leg. I love this one because it helps me maintain strength in my lower body and builds up my quadriceps. Crunches: They tighten my abdominal muscles and help build core strength. I do a standard crunch by laying on the fl oor with my knees bent and feet planted. From here, I use my abs to lift my upper body and bring it close to my knees, dropping back slowly again. Squats: Start with a standing position and your feet hip-width apart. Keeping your upper body braced, slowly lower your hips till your knee is about 90 degrees (but not locked). Slowly lift yourself back up and repeat to complete the workout. This exer- cise has the ability to challenge most of the muscles in my body. Chin-ups: This exercise will require a pull-up bar. Chin-ups are performed with your palms towards you while pull-ups are performed with your palms outward. Allow your body to hang and then using your bicep, shoulder and upper-back muscles, pull yourself up until your chin is in line with the bar or over it. Slowly lower yourself down and repeat. This one improves my grip strength, posture and strengthens my muscles. The athletes are sponsored by Red Bull. by Red sponsored The athletes are

22 SMART LIFE • MAY 2020 inhale Viral Load

he Covid-19 virus is here to stay albeit in a subdued man- ner, says the World Health Organization. Pandemics of Tthe past left varying trails of destruc- tion depending on their virulence. Th e Covid-19 pandemic, too, shall pass, aided by the salvage eff orts worldwide. Th e collective human resolve to fi ght the virus is unprecedented and has helped us renew faith in our ability to restore the human race to its full potential. At the peak of any crisis, it is natural to focus on the present. Th e entire world is focused on contain- ing the progression of Covid-19. Th e worldwide restrictions and lockdowns intended to fl atten the curve will eventually weaken the leading edge of the viral wave. Vaccine development and various drug therapies are being fast-tracked as specifi c measures to conquer the virus. But whether or not life would return to the old normal is open to question. Th e biological battle with the virus may soon be over, but its protracted onslaught on our psyche may have just begun. Th is pandemic is distinctly diff erent in the overall impact on the lives of people. Its impact on our social, Beyond the professional, fi nancial and emotional lives will by no means be small. As the lockdown gets lifted, a whole new world awaits us in our workplaces and social spheres for which we are pandemic unprepared. Th e adaptive responses that will evolve will initiate a new order of life. From the highest levels of The biological battle with Covid-19 may soon end, but thought leadership to the lowest levels its onslaught on our psyche may have just begun of administrative action, a concurrent initiative to understand, address and manage the social challenges of the BY DR SUNIL CHANDY pandemic must start now.

24 SMART LIFE • MAY 2020 MAY 2020 • SMART LIFE 25 inhale AFP PHOTO PHOTO

Post-pandemic social ers and masks. For some time, these grossly neglected primary health care panic disorders will drive people either has taken its toll in the acute phase. dysfunction into social isolation or unnecessary Th e defi cit in the pool of secondary Th e psychosocial distress after the hospital visits. Both extremes will be care physicians, family physicians, pandemic dies down will mimic the diffi cult to cope with. Social media, it mental health care providers and post-traumatic stress disorder seen in is feared, will only worsen this panic counsellors will become evident other disaster situations. Public fear disorder through its misinformation in the post-Covid-19 phase. Rather psychosis has already manifested in diarrhoea. Even mainstream media is than accumulate ventilators, a rapid the gruesome event around the funeral unable to look beyond the numbers augmentation of this rehabilitative of a doctor in Chennai. Although and opinions to prepare the commu- layer is needed. For a specifi ed period, anecdotal, it exemplifi es an outburst nity for the social dysfunction ahead. a temporary realigning of our entire of contained panic and uncertainty in Already a large number of people are health care system, redeployment the community. Uncertainties about seeking counselling help to tide over of specialists to basic services and safety of travel, crowded public Covid-19-related somatic illnesses. reemployment of retired medical spaces, cohabitation and interaction Th us, a new social pandemic is germi- personnel should be considered. Th e are set to throw the social order into nating under the shoots of the exiting shutting down of major hospitals in disarray. Travel and tourism will have Covid-19 virus. Th e government must Mumbai and Delhi at the peak of the to be redefi ned. Th e altered seating think it prudent to channel the entire crisis must prompt the authorities arrangements in airplanes, buses and machinery into disseminating proper to set up standalone makeshift fi eld sports stadiums will negatively impact public awareness. Th is must start now, hospitals to manage the residual the revenue fl ow of these businesses. given the long learning curve needed caseload. Th e medical misinformation Religious places, too, will bear the to sensitise the public mind. campaign arising out of superstition, brunt of social distancing, which will cultural practices and quackery must have its own impact on spirituality. be curtailed with zero tolerance. In the People are going to be in fear of anyone Health care long term, this is also an opportunity who coughs, sneezes or yawns in resource crisis for the government to reorient the close proximity. Many are likely to be Th is pandemic has unmasked the entire health education and service obsessed with hand washing, sanitis- defi cits in our health care system. Th e towards a more need-based one. Th e

26 SMART LIFE • MAY 2020 inhale

HOLD THAT THOUGHT, INTROSPECT, QUESTION AFP

PHOTO PHOTO According to a new study by Anglia Ruskin University (ARU) in Cambridge, UK, infants from heightened sensitivities of the public changes? People now know how not What matters bilingual homes process new today will make them compliant to any to sneeze, cough, spit and interact. Th e lessons learnt from this pandemic information faster than other change management that is deemed Can this awareness help reorder our must transform us beyond it. We have children. The researchers say necessary. lifestyles for a better tomorrow? Th ere learnt how little we need, how much that these children develop is no better moment than now. we actually have and the value of greater fl exibility in acquir- Cleanliness drive human connection. In distancing ing new information, even Th e rapid recovery of the environment Leadership us socially, we have learnt that before they learn to speak. with the lockdown clearly points to relationships are far more valuable The hypothesis, which is under the human contributions towards and governance than religiosity. Th at our obsessions investigation, is that the highly unhealthy living. Th e air is cleaner, India has fared well in this crisis with caste and creed will not see us complex linguistic environ- the roads are less littered, there are because of good leadership. through an existential crisis. We have ment in a bilingual home lesser accidents and waste production Proactive and preemptive measures understood what it feels like being prompts an infant to develop has minimised. Th is period has been taken early have stemmed the tide. hungry and in detention. We may have the ability to switch their at- a ‘servicing’ time for urban India. Th e Recovery of the corporate and understood freedom anew. We have tention more rapidly between need for better hygiene and social business world will hinge on the realised how wasteful political debates different stimuli. Based on the etiquettes has been underlined. Th e principles of empathetic leadership are, when food and drinks do not reach results of a couple of image lockdown has added a new dimension rather than on outcome-oriented our doors. We have also learnt that it tests, researchers confi rmed to the vision of our prime minister. leadership. All leadership styles will is the street vendor who will suff er to that infants from bilingual Th e Swachh Bharat graph will see a be put to test in this post-Covid-19 provide us food and material at our homes switched focus more spontaneous upswing, suggesting horizon. Th e lockdown off ered a six- doorstop when the online services often that those in the control the measures to be adopted to take week holiday from the nerve-racking, say their services are suspended. So, group. The study also found Swachh Bharat to its logical conclu- high decibel debates on issues that when life returns to normal, we need to that these children were signif- sion. As the world returns to normal, seem so insignifi cant in relation to stand again on our balconies and clap icantly faster than their peers should we not use these embargos to this existential crisis. Th is pandemic for these unsung heroes who held our at letting go of one image and redefi ne a desirable lifestyle? Should off ers a new window to our political lives together. Beyond that, we need refocusing on a new one. we wait for nature to revolt again to leaders to commence on a new path- to redefi ne our social lives altogether. induce these transformational lifestyle way of good governance. Th is is our opportunity.

28 SMART LIFE • MAY 2020 MAY 2020 • SMART LIFE 29 pause Sustainability Ahoy Gourmet done right Food should never be a threat to sustainability but should rather promote sustainable development. Here are fi ve top chefs who have blended sustainable practices with a grand dining experience

BY RUPALI DEAN

30 SMART LIFE • MAY 2020 MAY 2020 • SMART LIFE 31 pause Sustainability Ahoy

Jayanandan Bhaskar Executive chef, Karma Lakelands Golf Resort, Gurugram

The realisation of going organic was inherently inculcated in Bhakar’s roots as he began his culinary journey. That being said, he always enjoyed solving the puzzle of completely replacing wholesale market products with organic goods especially ones that are Prateek Sadhu grown right in front of his eyes. Executive chef, co-owner, Masque restaurant, Mumbai Bhaskar’s dream turned to reality at Karma Lakelands, where he could include his passion of natu- Born in Jammu in 1986, Prateek grew up around they are doing,” says Sadhu. The initial legwork ral, organic ingredients in his daily processes in the family farms, leading him to the kitchen by for Masque involved a lot of travel around kitchen. This has actually fanned his inner fi re to take his 10th birthday. He learnt his basics from his India to meet farmers and suppliers. It began the word organic to the next level. “Making efforts to aunt and mother and spent weekends picking with online research, which actually really learn their way of farming fi rst, I discuss and observe veggies and then cooking them for lunch helped, and then developing relationships and how they do things their way along with the products before attending a hotel management college, networks. “Build a good relationship with one they grow in a particular season and conditions. After although his initial plan was to become a farmer and he will connect you to ten more – discussing the basics, I eventually move on to knowing commercial pilot. that’s where it all starts. It was obviously crucial how they innovate with it and how we can further Menus at Masque are entirely driven by to us that we visit the farms and see where work upon the products. While knowing about all the farmers, given the seasonal, tasting-menu they’re growing their crops, meet them person- these aspects, I also like to take note of the technical format of the restaurant, and this works well ally, and make an effort to understand and issues that one might face, to address them better”, for it! “One of our farmers is working on an respect the nuances of growing a vegetable,” he explains. Generally, he discusses all the do’s and indigenous pumpkin variety of which each says Sadhu. “After that, we have a logistics don’ts prior to starting his research. The research is one weighs about 2kg, and he can produce partner that enables us to cut out the middle- usually based on the information farmers get from only about 30kg of it at a time. This works men and pay the farmer fairer wages for his their counterparts and from other places. “All my asso- well because we can buy out his entire supply, produce. I think when working with these farms ciate farmers are competent and are clear about their serve it at the restaurant for a week and then it’s crucial to develop a relationship where basics and hence have a strong foundation. I simply change it around once supplies run out. It is you both understand what you want out of it. work on helping them churn out ideas that they can a system that is important to us because we We work with our farm just outside Pune as absorb completely. I do it by being consistent with get to both support these small-scale farmers well as a consortium of different farmers from appreciating them for their work and motivating them and create awareness around the kind of work Uttarakhand and in and around Maharashtra.” to give their best as they innovate,” says Bhaskar.

32 SMART LIFE • MAY 2020 MAY 2020 • SMART LIFE 33 pause Sustainability Ahoy

Abhishek Basu Executive chef, JW Marriot Juhu, Mumbai

Basu’s father has always been a faithful gar- dener and meals at home always had something or the other from his vegetable patch. Being an Army offi cer, they travelled quite a bit, which meant that Abhishek was exposed to seasonal vegetables and all the excitement of sowing and watching them grow. In 2013, Basu started working with Indian farmers who grew everything from rice to gherkins and vegetables. He has inspired many Harish Rao to follow the organic movement in Delhi in his Brand chef, Sea Salt, Chennai previous stint. Basu’s contribution to the com- munity and efforts to help the farmers are well Rao’s intervention in the seafood market began known. As an ambassador of JW Marriott and with in-season fi shing when his collaboration their organic movement as well as a fellow chef with Sea Salt took place. In-season fi shing is a from the fraternity, Basu has spoken at different conventional method that aims to promote seafood forums and panels to encourage others to join diversity, healthy oceans and sustainable fi shery. To and work with farmers for healthy living. “We ensure the restaurant received the freshest catch of must lead in our own spaces to generate the the day, as well as what the season has to offer, Rao momentum towards the global call for sustain- had to personally get involved with the fi shermen ability. The Tasting India Symposium brought community to learn more, and to communicate to many of us together to sign India’s Food them his needs. Manifesto to bring about a change in the food The in-season fi shing community works close- system. We have in our individual roles made ly with small trailer boat fi shermen by educating a difference and will continue to work towards them and learning from them about the available the larger goal of achieving food security, zero fi sh that season. Collaborating with the in-season waste, improving nutrition and supporting sus- fi shing community gave Rao the opportunity to tainable agriculture. We must make more and work directly with local fi shermen. “With great more people aware of the benefi ts of being part understanding and mutual respect, we are glad to of a healthy community. This is my personal say that some of these fi shermen have been hired movement to change the world around me to by us to work in-house with our kitchen to create enjoy a smart life with my people. You can start some authentic recipes as well,”, shares Rao. To his small at your end too. Teach your children not surprise, the fi shermen community was more wel- to waste food. Let them be part of your weekly coming than he expected. They were interested shopping. Weave stories around farmers, in the initiative and were extremely supportive of produce and more. They are our future and the cause. Moreover, they felt important as Rao we must instil in them a love for Mother Earth would listen to their stories, concerns and fi shing when they are young. We have to protect our practices. They also understood what is required people and our planet and it’s the next genera- for the consumer in small and large scale. “I tion that can do this and continue our work.” believe when you are interested in something, you says Basu. go all the way to make things happen. Of course, it was a completely new environment for me as I was completely unaware of fi shing practices, methods and available in season fi sh. Interacting closely with the fi shermen not only made me understand more about seafood and their community, but also the need of the hour in terms of sustainable food”, adds Rao.

34 SMART LIFE • MAY 2020 MAY 2020 • SMART LIFE 35 pause

Neeraj Tyagi Director of culinary, Pullman and Novotel, Delhi

Tyagi comes from an agricultural background. He belongs to the fertile belt of Muzzafarnagar, in the western part of Uttar Pradesh. Sustainability and localisation are in his DNA.Under Tyagi’s leader- ship the culinary team works with NGOs and third parties who supplies it with ingredients from local farms. With the increased usage of synthetic pesticides and chemical fertilisers in farming, the produce is no longer healthy for daily consumption. To tackle this growing concern, Tyagi emphasises the importance of organic farming. He sources fresh and safe produce. The Signature Buffet restaurant, Pluck, at Pullman is committed to offering fresh and safe ingredients that are locally sourced. The menu is decided by the seasonal availability of produce. “We have an in house farm of 5,000 sq. ft. The herb garden already grows vegetables such as lettuce, lemon, brinjal, tomatoes and herbs. We plan to build a facility that takes care of all our vegetable needs .We have recently introduced Rooted in Nature buffets that focus on microgreens, fresh seasonal produce, sustainable farming and endless varieties of greens. It is meant for weight watchers, vegan lovers and those who prefer sustain- able and guilt-free selections of regional dishes”, he shares.

36 SMART LIFE • MAY 2020 pause Green Way

studies have shown that it takes about In the initial days of her stay, she 500 to 800 years for a normal plastic lurked around like a fugitive in the sanitary pad to decompose. As per an bushes, looking for a place where she estimate by the Menstrual Hygiene could discreetly dig a hole to bury her Alliance of India (MHAI), there are 336 used pads and tampons. “Th rowing million menstruating women in India, them in a bin for others to handle of which 36 per cent (121 million) use or burning these wet products with disposable sanitary napkins. If we were their plastic liners was unimaginable,” to calculate the number of pads used she says. No more trash, by these women in a year—probably It was during a trip to New Zealand seven to eight pads per cycle—it is that she came across her fi rst wash- about 12.3 billion disposable sanitary able cloth pad in a small village shop. napkins that our country has to take “Th e pad was made of colourful soft period care of annually. A whopping number fl annel cotton, unbranded and obvi- indeed. At a time when the environ- ously homemade by a local woman. I Say goodbye to menstrual waste with ment is being brutally degraded due to instinctively knew this was what I had anthropogenic activities, the need of been looking for and for the fi rst time reusable cloth pads the hour is to do our bit to reduce our ever, felt excited about getting my next carbon footprint. period! From the day of fi rst use, I was Th ere are many sustainable converted! One by one all the benefi ts products in the market that one can became apparent,” Kathy says. BY OSHIN GRACE DANIELL use instead of a synthetic pad. Most notably, the menstrual cup. But, many women cannot use these cups due to Th e right blend disorders that cause pain in the open- Last year, two IIT Delhi boys Archit ing of the vagina such as vulvodynia Agarwal and Harry Sehrawat came and vaginismus. Th ese conditions can up with a better version of the cloth cause extreme discomfort and many pads. They used banana fi bre for avoid using the cup as it can result in making biodegradable pads that more pain. Th en there are many who can last for up to 120 washes or two are petrifi ed by the idea of inserting years. Banana fi bre is known to have something into the vagina. And the excellent absorption properties. remaining are simply disgusted about The pads made out of this fi bre are the whole thing. Th e switch to sustain- hygienic, easy to wash and quick dry. The extended life of these sanitary able menstruation is highly essential napkins can help in curbing the envi- considering the amount of waste we ronment hazard of disposed sanitary generate but it need not be painful pads to a great extent. or scary. A patent has also been fi led for For Kathy Walkling who moved these reusable pads. Cloth pads by Eco Femme to India 23 years ago, her biggest The sanitary napkins are made challenge at the time was not culture up of four layers of different fabrics: shock or language barrier, but disposal ♦ Polyester pilling fabric which s I refl ect on my menarche, pad from my mother’s cupboard and those plastic-backed, bleached out, remains in the body for years together of sanitary waste. She had moved to is highly wicking and gives a I distinctly remember how walked away, smirking at the folded white cotton disposables. leading to hormone disruption, allergic Auroville, Tamil Nadu, from her home dry experience throughout the my grandmother handed cloth. My grandmother did not say a According to tests conducted by reactions, reproductive and gyneco- country, Australia, to start a new life. day time me a folded cotton cloth word probably because back in her several consumer watchdogs, most logical disorders like endometriosis. “Where I had come from, there is at ♦ Terry and banana fi bres includ- Ainstead of a normal plastic pad. She did days, the topic of periods had been so of these synthetic pads are made Th e plastic layer on the pad blocks least the appearance that these prod- ing viscose and polyester fi bres not say anything and I was confused hush-hush. Twelve years ago, I felt so from plastics and synthetic fi bres like airfl ow to the vagina which can cause ucts go ‘away’ when tossed into that which make these napkins by her reaction to the news of my fi rst empowered by the thought that I knew super-absorbent acrylic polymers. painful rashes and cramps. conveniently placed ‘sanitary bin’ that highly absorbent period. Isn’t it unhygienic to use a better than my grandmother. But now Th ese disposable pads are also treated Another huge problem is sanitary was next to every toilet. Arriving in ♦ Cotton polyurethane laminate cloth? I thought. Th anks to the men- that I think of it, I feel I should have just with chemicals like chlorine dioxide, waste disposal. Did you know that a India, with its highly visible mountains which is a breathable layer in the strual hygiene sessions in my school, taken that folded cotton cloth. It would synthetic chemicals and artifi cial woman can generate up to 125kg of of garbage, I was forced to recognise pad with water-resistant proper- ties to offer leak-proof experience. I knew how to deal with the situation. have saved me from years of suff ering fragrances which lead to production non-biodegradable waste through that my sanitary waste was not going I grabbed a packet of the synthetic from rashes and chafi ng because of of harmful pollutants like dioxin. Th is her menstruating years alone? And ‘away’ after all!” she says.

38 SMART LIFE • MAY 2020 MAY 2020 • SMART LIFE 39 pause

CELEBRATE LIFE, CHOICES AND CHALLENGES

Take your pick Soch: The pads are made of soft fabric, combed cotton and microfi bre. They also sell inter-labia pads. Jaioni: Available in many colours and A study by researchers

pretty prints, these are 100 per cent GRASSI EDOARDO from Yale University in New vegan and handmade. Even the snap Haven, CT, shows that mixing

buttons are made from coconut shell PHOTO artifi cial sweeteners with car- and wood. bohydrates alters a person’s Peesafe: Made with breathable sensitivity to sweet tastes, Th e challenge was the washing rapidly due to increased adoption of fabric, the pads are soft enough to which may impact insulin part. Most women get disgusted by the disposable sanitary napkins and a lack prevent any kind of itching or rashes sensitivity. Our sensitivity to thought of washing a blood-soaked of proper solid waste management which usually happens in case of sweet taste allows our body cloth. “I would be lying if I said I was systems in India. With Eco Femme, synthetic pads. to release insulin into the perfectly at ease with the idea of wash- we dream of a cloth pad revolution,” UGER Pads: Hundred per cent cotton blood when we eat or drink ing. But the reality was better than I says Kathy. pads in bright hues. It also comes in a kit with multiple products called ‘potli’. something sweet. If we lose imagined. After dropping the pad in a Th e EcoFemme cloth pads are this sensitivity then we might bucket of cold water to soak, most of made of layers of organic, absorbent Unipads: Easy-to-wash, long lasting pads with powerful soaking layer. lose the ability to regulate the blood came out so, washing took cotton and function exactly like a metabolic responses that pre- almost no time at all,” says Kathy. synthetic pad. It has features like wings pare the body for metabolis- Th is changed Kathy’s life and made and leak-proofi ng; it comes in four ing glucose or carbohydrates her question the aversion she had to diff erent sizes to cover all kinds of fl ow. for washing but in case of blood, avoid in general. This is mainly her menstrual blood. After coming Th e pad has a polyurethane laminate a hot wash as it can set stains,” she because the gut, which is back to Auroville, she started making (PUL) which acts as a leak-guard. says. sensitive to sucralose and cloth pads for the community she lived Th e pads are certifi ed by the Global Washable sanitary napkins are maltodextrin, must have in. Surprisingly, many showed interest Organic Textile Standard. “We have breathable hence there will be no constantly signalled the brain and made the switch to cloth pads. ambassadors across the country who sweat and discomfort during its usage. that there are twice as many She also encouraged women to talk explain to buyers how the pads func- Even in case of white discharge, cloth is calories as are actually pre- openly about menstrual problems and tion. It is not a pickle that can be just much better than synthetic pads. sent. After some time, these hygiene aspects associated with it. put up for sale anywhere; it is essential Cloth pads have been instrumental wrong messages must have In 2010, she met Jessamijn that buyers are sensitised about the in not only reducing waste but also produced negative effects by Miedema who also loved cloth pads. impact of their switch and the benefi ts eliminating disgust associated with the altering the way the body And together they came up with a of it,” says Kathy. Cloth pads can cost menstruation. As for Kathy, the pads responds to sweet taste. So, social enterprise called Eco Femme. more up front than a pack of dispos- have really helped transform her rela- think twice before you gulp “We were both very concerned by ables, but they last longer. “Th e pad tionship with her body and establish a down that can of coke. the growing mountain of sanitary can be used for up to 75 washes. Most restorative relationship with the earth. waste which we knew was increasing people think that hot water is better Ladies, it is time to make the switch.

40 SMART LIFE • MAY 2020 MAY 2020 • SMART LIFE 41 exhale Cover Story

Actor and dancer Nidhhi Agerwal is a complete package BoldBY OSHIN GRACE DANIELL & Beautiful FARROKH CHOTHIA FARROKH PHOTO

42 SMART LIFE • MAY 2020 MAY 2020 • SMART LIFE 43 exhale Cover Story

idhhi Agerwal and it also gave her clarity on the profes- was 11 when sion she aspired for. she came up According to Nidhhi, there have been with her fi rst busi- many incidents and signs that made her ness model—a DVD feel like acting is her calling. “Once, when rental enterprise. “I I went to Mumbai with my family to visit got a person who worked at my father’s the famous Ganapati temple there, I company to get a billing book printed was surrounded by a group of girls who with my photo, name and address; I wanted to click a picture with me like I labelled all the DVDs I had at home and was some celebrity. Th e interesting bit is went to every fl at in my building to mar- that this happened even before I started ket my new venture,” she recalls. It could modelling. I was so confused at that point. have been a profi table model, but it was But I took it as a sign that I should prob- short-lived. Th e moment she got back ably get into acting. Since this happened home after her door-to-door marketing on temple grounds, I felt it was God point- run, Nidhhi’s mother gave her an earful. ing me to that direction,” she recalls. Th e movie rental business died an instant While most people around her death, but not the passion for moving thought the desire to be an actor was images. Many years later, she became part just a phase in her life, Nidhhi could feel of the showbiz that she once tried to milk. the calling get louder and louder. And As a child, Nidhhi adored the ‘Khans’ it reached a point where she decided to of the Bollywood. And those DVDs with pack her bags and head to ‘the city of all the hits of the 90s and the fi rst decade dreams’—Mumbai. “My parents were of the new millennium stoked a passion sceptical about my decision but they for acting inside her. “I have always want- gave me a year to fi gure out things and Ned to become an actor. Always. I used to then return home if it didn’t work out,” play dress up and try to imitate the actors she says. and practise dialogues in front of my mir- Th ere were a lot of uncertainties and ror,” says the 25-year-old Bengaluru girl. setbacks initially but she kept swimming Th ough Nidhhi had the will, she did not against the current and made her acting know which way to go at that time. “I did debut in the 2017 fi lm Munna Michael not know how to get into the industry; I alongside Tiger Shroff . Th ough the dance- did not have any contacts either. People action movie did not do well at the box who knew me suggested that I take up offi ce, Nidhhi defi nitely got noticed in modelling. And that is exactly what I the glitterati circle for her drop-dead did. And before long, I won the Yamaha gorgeous looks and dancing skills. She Fascino Miss Diva contest in 2014. It was a also bagged the Zee Cine Award for Best fl uke and I did not have an idea as to what Female Debut in 2017. “I absolutely love

I was doing,” she says. Call it luck or fl uke, dancing. I think it is my forte. Growing up, RAHUL JHANGIANI the title defi nitely got her some attention I trained for ballet, kathak and hip-hop. PHOTO

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At a glance A hobby that you once had but not anymore. farm and build a lovely bungalow there. I Playing the piano. I took classes for about would also set up an NGO to rescue street fi ve years. I have a grand piano at my home dogs and help people get their medical in Mumbai. treatments done. I would also probably take Your favourite sportsperson. a shopping trip and save whatever is left. Virat Kohli. Suppose your house is on fi re, what are the A show you binge-watched. three things that you’d take with you? I recently watched this series called You on My phone, my dog and my shoes. I have the Netfl ix. It is super creepy. most amazing collection of shoes. I would probably take them fi rst and run away. Midnight indulgence. Belgian chocolate ice cream One memorable fan moment. A fan got my name tattooed. I had just Your biggest strength. become an actor and I was super shocked to My positivity. I am a very optimistic person see it; I was very moved. and I think it is mainly because of my immense faith in God. A celebrity crush. There are many but if I had to tell one name, Your nightmare. it would be Ryan Gosling. I have scary dreams every now and then. I recently had one where a pigeon If someone dead were to reincarnate, attacked me. who would you want it to be? Michael Jackson. I think he is a true legend. I Genie’s granted you three wishes. Your pick love people who can sing and dance. I want to wish for uncountable wishes. My An interesting troll that you thought second wish would be to keep me and my What’s on family safe. And third one will be to grant me was creative. super stardom. There are many but right now I can’t remem- My diet keeps changing. I am a vegetarian ber any. Sometimes the trolls seem like a by choice andNidhhi’s healthy eating is somethingplate Your most prized possession. compliment; it is confusing. that I am very strict about. Even on shoot A watch my mother gifted me. days, I make sure that I consume nutri- Horror movies or romcoms? Why? tious food. When I am at home, I eat a A lie you told your parents that you Defi nitely not horror movies; I am super very fi lling breakfast; it is my favourite distinctly remember. scared of the dark. I love romcoms. meal of the day. My father keeps saying, I have told a couple of lies to my parents Everything about comedy fascinates me. I “Breakfast like a king and supper like a in my teenage years. Just small things like love thrillers. where I am going or whom I am meeting. I pauper.” My family has followed this for don’t lie anymore because it gives me a lot Your take on nepotism. many years now. I have a very light dinner of anxiety. Nepotism is a reality. But there is no point and I make sure that I sleep seven to eight complaining about it. My father has a hours when I am not shooting. Suppose you have only a day to live. tyre business and if I was part of the tyre What would you do? Where would you go? industry, I would have been the ‘tyre queen’. Shoot day diet I would stay at home, spend time with my If your parents are in a fi eld, they would Early morning: A lot of water (about family and donate all my wealth. do everything to help you. I would do it for half a litre). I also drink green juice made my kids. If you were given a billion dollars what of spinach, bitter gourd, gooseberries would you do? If not an actor, then? and kale. I love the thought of it. I would buy a big Nothing. I only wanted to be an actor. Breakfast: An omelette made of two eggs. Lunch: One jowar roti, a little rice, some dal and boiled vegetables. Evening snack: Tea and a mix of nuts. Dinner: One Spanish omelette.

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I have always wanted to become an It is amazing how Munna Michael is a blend of two of my favourite things— actor. Always. I did not know how to get acting and dancing,” she says. And it is not just dancing that our girl is good into the industry; I did not have any at, she is also into gymnastics. She has contacts either. People who knew me been working with Shroff ’s team of trainers to improve her fl exibility and suggested that I take up modelling. strength. “I feel stronger now. I hope someone casts me in a super intense And that is exactly what I did. action role soon,” she says. After her debut in Bollywood, she made an entry into the Telugu fi lm industry with Savyasachi, in which she shared screen space with Akkineni based on one’s last performance. I Naga Chaitanya. “My mother is from think it is about time we rise above Hyderabad and I have about 500 rela- it. Everything is a journey. It is never tives there. So, doing a movie in Telugu about the destination, so just enjoy meant a lot to me,” she says. Probably your journey,” she says. one of the reasons why she took up Nidhhi believes that with time AsMy a child,  I wastness chubby. regime But, I more projects in Tollywood. Her role one learns to adapt to putdowns and grew up to be a skinny teenager. in the 2019 release iSmart Shankar, setbacks. Something that tags along Just like how people make fun of which was helmed by Puri Jagannadh, with fame is criticism. “I have had a lot fat children, they make fun of the garnered a lot of praise; the fi lm was of people troll me. I don’t react to it a skinny ones, too. I was a victim of a super-hit at the box offi ce as well. lot. At the end of the day I know that that. That is when I decided to hit “Puri sir was so patient with me. I used there are many idiots in the world who the gym and work on my weight to keep asking a lot of doubts and he have fi ngers to type nonsensical stuff ,” and also my muscles. Now I am happy with my body and how much kept telling me to be calm and not she says. muscle I have gained as a result of overthink. My father always wanted Recently, the actor has been busy working out. me to be a scientist or a doctor. So, he clearing the air on rumours about was quite happy to see me play the role dating cricketer K.L. Rahul. “He is a I mostly do weight training, of a neuroscientist in iSmart Shankar,” really good friend of mine. We both which includes heavy weights and high-intensity functional exer- she says. are from Bengaluru and our friend- cises, for fi ve days a week. I also do But everything was not always ship started much before he became cardio-dancing three days a week. peachy for Nidhhi. She says that there a cricketer and I became an actor. We On the sets of Munna Michael, I were days when she questioned her just happened to meet up in Mumbai got in touch with Tiger Shroff’s dreams and aspirations. She used to for some coff ee and the media linked fi tness training team. I also picked keep fretting about one thing or the us,” she says. up some gymnastics. I am fi t now other. “One of my fi lms had not done Having said all that, the fashionista to do some action roles now; I hope well and it felt worse than a heart- loves social media. Her Instagram someone casts me for an intense break. People’s opinions constantly page recently hit fi ve million followers. action movie. change with time and it is mostly Besides giving her fans a glimpse into

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One of my fi lms had not done well and it felt worse than a heartbreak. People’s opinions constantly change with time and it is mostly based on one’s last performance. I think it is about time we rise above it. Nothing down One hobby you picked up during Everything is a journey. the lockdown. Mopping. I mopabout my house lockdown every day now; it is a great exercise and it keeps my house clean. her workout routine and personal life, and a script writing course from an Nidhhi is a regular when it comes to American online education platform. Once everything is back to normal, what posting pictures from her photoshoots. “I don’t want to be just content; is the fi rst thing in your list of things to do? I want to go for a shoot; I miss the sets. Last “When I go through the comments I want super stardom. And I want to year, I took 163 fl ights as part of my work. on my Instagram posts, I fi nd a lot of work for multilingual projects,” she This year, I don’t think I will take even half pick-up lines—both good and bad. One says. It may seem a tad too ambitious of that. of the really weird statements that I but the actor is defi nitely working distinctly remember is ‘so hot, sis’; he towards it. Besides Hindi, Kannada and One dish that you whipped up during this period. was calling me his sister and also call- Telugu, Nidhhi picked up some Tamil I baked a chocolate cake under the supervi- ing me hot,” she laughs. for her recent project Bhoomi, which sion of my younger sister. Since we both are Th ese comments might seem marks her debut in Kollywood. Th e into healthy eating, we used maple syrup funny to her now, but as a child, she action-drama starring Jayam Ravi was instead of sugar. It was absolutely tasty. I used to get angry quite fast. She calls supposed to be released on May 1, but am not someone who craves for sweet stuff her younger self a rowdy. “I have has now been postponed due to the but lately, I have developed a sweet tooth. slapped so many boys and girls during lockdown. According to her, Bhoomi is I am very careful when it comes to my skin. You’re given a minute to pick out groceries. my school days. I remember the fi rst one of the best projects she has worked MyIt is a very skincaresensitive part of thehacks human body What are the fi ve items that you would pick up? time a boy told me that he likes me. on. “I play a fun role in the movie. I and you need to be patient when it comes Organic eggs, yoghurt, gluten-free bread, We were in the school bus on our way have always played sober characters to taking care of it. I don’t use face wash in avocado and lemon. It would make a great back home. I was eating an apple and but Bhoomi is the closest to who I the morning. breakfast. Did I mention that I love drinking he was sitting in the seat behind mine. really am as a person. I am a very crazy lemon water? Before makeup: I apply Dior moisturiser and He said something like, ‘hey, you are person and this movie lets me bring La Shield sun block. Lockdown reading list. very beautiful! I like you a lot’. I threw out the best in me. I can confi dently At night: Dermatologist-recommended face Autobiography Of A Yogi by Paramahansa the half-bitten apple at his face,” she say that this has been my best perfor- wash and an under eye cream from Clarins. Yogananda, The Secret by Rhonda Byrne, says. Roses, chocolate boxes and other mance so far and I can’t wait for people Ikigai by Albert Liebermann and Hector cheesy gifts that screamed ‘I love you to watch it,” she says. DIY face packs: Garcia. I read a lot of self-help books and I Nidhhi’ also found its way into the She also dreams of entering the Mix some curd, turmeric powder, honey and also listen to a lot of motivational speakers. lemon and apply it on your face. Leave it for trash. “I was one hyper child. But I Malayalam fi lm industry. “I think about 10-15 minutes before washing it off Movies that you watch over and over again. have evolved a lot in the recent past,” they have some amazing stories and with water. Yeh Jawaani Hai Deewani, The Wolf of Wall she says. excellent cinematographers. Picking Street, Lion King. Combine some fresh aloe vera gel, turmeric Currently, Nidhhi is in Bengaluru up Tamil was a little diffi cult, which powder and coffee powder. Apply it on your Series that keep you awake. with her family and is making the most means Malayalam will be even more face and let it rest for some time. Scrub gen- F.R.I.E.N.D.S, The Big Bang Theory, Gossip of the lockdown. She is busy learning challenging, but I am ready. I will never SASHA JAIRAM SASHA tly while washing it off with cold water. Girl. online—an acting course from the let language limit my potential,” she prestigious New York Film Academy says. Well, as they say, sky is the limit. PHOTO

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Healthy eating is a lifestyle and not INDULGE YOUR SENSES, HAVE FUN a diet. Including real whole food aids optimal functioning of the body and helps you live a, nutritionistfuller life. and

Karishmalifestyle Chawla educator.

Alina Rai’s diet Early morning: I drink a lot of water in the morning. Breakfast: I start my day with cornfl akes and some fruits. Mid-day snack: I usually have a fruit, crackers or a protein bar to keep me going. Lunch: A sandwich or a vegetable roll. what Dinner: It pretty much depends on my Forget energy bars and shots, mood. Sometimes I have vegetables just pop a tablespoon of hon- ate and roti, or I go overboard and have an ey before your next workout. I Italian pizza or Thai food. It has been proven to boost today athletic performance. We know that a drop of honey in tea is good for a sore throat, Nutrition advice: but you can add it to most ✲ Start the day with some vegetable drinks for an extra energy I am a simple eater juice which helps to kickstart your boost. Also, it is a whole lot daily routine with better energy levels better than tossing in a few ✲ British-Indian actor Alina Rai talks about her diet and fi tness Drop the cornzfl akes. It is high on Sweet ‘n’ Lows. Honey is also sugar and is also a gut infl ammatory. Try homemade breakfasts like buck- loaded with fructose which started my journey in 2017 as a model and regularly post images of the latest trendy wheat upma or red rice poha. Also aids the metabolism of alco- a fashion blogger. I came from England outfi ts on Instagram; I got spotted there consume plain muesli without any hol—perfect hangover cure. with an agency to work in Mumbai. After as well. For me, exercising is important to sugar or dried fruits twice a week to Apart from the benefi ts it I minimise fat storage. coming to this city, I fell in love with the keep myself active and fresh. I believe it offers through consumption, ✲ people, culture, food and just everything re-programmes your whole body. I love food Switch to a fruit like apple, pear or it does wonders when used about it. I instantly felt at home here and but I am also a simple eater. I sometimes papaya along with protein powder like whey or pea and brown rice mix. The topically. Add a few table- accepted. I made my debut with Badshah sneak into my kitchen at night to have some quantity of carbohydrates in protein spoons of honey to your bath in his music video ‘Kamaal Hai’. I got an chocolate, biscuits or anything sweet for bars may not meet the body’s protein for sweeter smelling, softer amazing response for my performance. I am that matter. I do miss home and the food needs. water. In the shower, after currently shooting for the Bollywood movie, that my mother cooks. She used to feed me ✲ For lunch, avoid bread as it contains you wash your hair, coat the Lucknow Junction that will mark my debut a lot of Indian food despite the fact that we sugar and trans fat even it is whole- ends with a bit of honey. Let on the silver screen. I also have a couple of lived in England. Its taste is beyond words, wheat. Indian rotis like jowar or it sit for a bit and rinse it off. fi lm projects in the pipeline and I am super probably because she put her secret ingredi- amaranth with a bowl of vegetables You’ll fi nd that your hair is excited about them. ent in it—love. Family is everything for me and dal is an ideal lunch. Raw salads are also great. Most people call me the doppelganger and I constantly stay in touch with them less frizzy and extra condi- ✲ For dinner, try having roti, brown of Katrina Kaif; some even go to the extent throughout the day; it almost feels like I’m tioned. Time to get that jar rice or quinoa with two servings of of honey! of calling me her long-lost twin. Apart from not so far away from them. fi brous food. acting, I also do a lot of fashion blogging and As told to Oshin Grace Daniell

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culinary couple decided to move to Mumbai to expand their busi- ness. Th ey started Gaia Gourmet, a gourmet, eclectic catering company. It is now one of the most popular Miss sunshine catering services in Mumbai for peo- Celebrity chef Chinu Vaze shares her journey ple who are looking for something unique, authentic and international. into the culinary world and also some of her And their clientele consists of mostly favourite summertime recipes the glitterati crowd, starting from Bollywood biggies like Alia Bhatt, BY OSHIN GRACE DANIELL Sonam Kapoor and Karan Johar to international brands like Gucci, Christian Louboutin and Hermes. y fi rst memory of sum- ing for kid’s television channel Pogo. Chinu believes that chefs learn mer is the smell of man- “In Goa I worked for highly-creative only by taking risks and working goes,” says chef Shilarna stand-alone restaurants and learnt a inside busy kitchens. Th ey must Vaze aka chef Chinu who lot by assisting chefs. I also learnt the experiment with diff erent ingredi- Mruns the Gaia Gourmet in Mumbai. intricacies of running a restaurant ents and bold fl avours. But she also “Although I eat mangoes whenever I by working in these places. And the adds that it is not all that serious get them, my mother wouldn’t touch best part is that this is where I met all the time. “We also have a lot of them until April 14, which is her birth- my husband chef Christophe Perrin. funny incidents inside and outside day. My grandfather used to bring her It was quite serendipitous,” she says. the kitchen. I can’t tell you every- a crate of mangoes on that day. Even Aside from being a chef, Christophe is thing but one of the incidents that I though he is no more, we still continue also a trained horticulturist and word distinctly remember was a brownie the tradition,” she says. According to has it that he knew how to whip up a situation. It was during Holi and we Chinu, mangoes taste the best when pasta when he was eight. “Christophe were catering for a client. We served they are plucked and eaten in the right and I met at a rave party in Goa. He them brownies and after some time season. “As a caterer, I wait for the thought I was 12 years old and asked the guests started feeling strange; mango season to incorporate it in all for my ID card. I was 25 at the time for they started feeling very hungry. One my dishes; everything from coolers the record!” Chinu says. of the guests got so hungry that he and pickles to salads and desserts,” In 2009, the duo opened their fi rst started having dal makhani in the she says. restaurant in Goa called Gaia, named shot glasses that were placed on the Th e Bombay girl who is obsessed after the earth and all the bounty she banquet table. It was only later that with food says her childhood has off ers. From Christophe’s father’s sig- we realised that they had the bhang- played a big role in her culinary nature morel sauce to Chinu’s prawn coated brownies. It was hilarious,” journey. “I come from a family of khichdi, their restaurant became a she recalls. fabulous cooks. I was exposed to big hit in the sunshine state. Th is was Last year, she launched her brilliant seafood as well as the best probably because they brought an fi rst cookbook for Penguin Random of international cuisine by them. Indian-Swiss twist to everything they House on “How to throw a party like Although I took up political science prepared. Th ey served everything a star” which is a collection of reci- in my undergraduate programme, from Mexican, Maharashtrian and pes as well as some kitchen hacks. I decided to pursue my dream of Japanese to Burmese and authentic “I take inspiration from the trips becoming a chef after my graduation. French cuisine. While setting up the I take with my family to the wild And what better place to learn the restaurant, Chinu hosted her fi rst and beautiful places of earth where basics of gastronomy than the food show ‘Firangi Tadka’ for Food Food people cook with their hearts and capital of the world—Paris!” she says. channel featuring food from all over hands using traditional wisdom and Chinu got her diploma de cuisine from the globe; this was the fi rst of many knowledge. I love cooking authentic the prestigious Le Cordon Bleu, Paris, shows she hosted for the channel. and luxurious food but lately I have alma mater of the world-renowned Chinu attained the ‘celebrity chef ’ been into a lot of healthy organic cook Julia Child. With her diploma in tag with shows such as ‘Style Chef ’, dishes as both Christophe and I are hand, she got back to India and moved ‘Sunny Side Up’ and ‘Tiffi n Box’. big on holistic lifestyle,” Chinu says. to her soul-town Goa while also work- Brushing aside all the accolades, the No wonder she is fi t as a fi ddle!

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Ragi lavash Ingredients ● Ragi fl our- 1 cup ● Whole wheat fl our- ½ cup ● Salt- 1 tsp ● Butter- ¼ cup ● Water- ½ cup ● White sesame- 1tsp ● Black sesame seeds- 1tsp ● Poppy seeds- 1 tsp

Method ● Weigh all the ingredients in a mixing bowl except the black sesame and poppy seeds. Using the dough kneading attachment, Pickled jalapeno hummus make a soft dough. Rest the dough for 20 Ingredients minutes under a damp cloth. For pickled jalapenos ● Divide the dough into six equal portions ● Vinegar- 1 ½ cups and roll each portion into very thin circles. Cut each circle into six triangles and place ● Olive oil- 1 cup on a baking tray. ● Sugar- 1tbsp ● Spray each triangle with water and sprinkle ● Salt- ½ tbsp some sesame seeds and poppy seeds ● Jalapeno- ½ kg on top. Method ● Bake in a pre-heated oven at 200°C for 10-12 ● minutes until golden brown. Mix vinegar, olive oil, sugar and salt and keep it aside. ● Slice the jalapenos into rounds and add these to the mixture(the liquid should cover the jalapenos completely). Transfer all of it to a bottle or covered bowl and keep it outside in room temperature for two days. After that refrigerate it. For hummus ● Kabuli channa- 200g ● Tahini sauce- 1tbsp ● Garlic clove, roasted- 2 whole heads ● Salt- 1tsp ● Olive oil- 1 cup ● Lemon juice- 1tbsp

Method ● Soak the channa overnight and remember this dou- bles in size once cooked. Rinse the channa the next day and add three cups of water. Cook it in a pres- sure cooker at medium fl ame until the whistle goes off thrice. Strain the channa and keep the channa water aside. ● In a mixer, add the channa, the strained water, roasted garlic, salt, lemon juice and olive oil. ● Once mixed well by hand, add 20 slices of the pickled jalapenos and mix it again. Blend it until it becomes a paste. Drizzle some olive oil on top of it and if needed, also sprinkle some chilli powder. ● Garnish it with moringa powder, few slices of pickled jalapenos, a few slices of plums and some cherry tomatoes.

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Spanish paprika prawns Ingredients For aglio olio sauce ● Olive oil- ½ l ● Garlic, fi nely chopped-2 heads ● Chilli fl akes-¼ cup ● Oregano- 2tbsp ● Sea salt- 1tsp ● Crushed black pepper-1tsp

For paprika prawns ● Aglio olio sauce- 5tbsp ● Big prawns- 8 pieces ● Lemon juice- ½ tsp ● Fresh cream- 1tbsp ● Parsley- for garnish ● Add on- Goan sausages

Method ● To make the aglio olio sauce, add olive oil and garlic in a pan at very low heat and keep mixing for about 15 minutes. Add in chilli fl akes, oregano, salt and pepper. Cook it for fi ve minutes and take it off the heat. ● Defrost prawns and marinate in salt, pepper, oregano, chilli fl akes and lemon juice Orange almond cake ● Toss prawns and the Goan sausages Ingredients in aglio oil, lemon juice and fresh ● Malta orange- 1 (after paste- ¾ cup) cream mix. Garnish with chopped ● All-purpose fl our- 1/8cup Mango colada parsley and lemon wedges. ● Almond powder- 1 ¼ cup Ingredients ● Castor sugar- 1 cup ● Hapus mango- 1, peeled and cubed ● Baking powder- ½ tsp ● Sabja or basil seeds (soaked in 3tbsp of warm water)- 1tsp ● Eggs- 4 ● Goji berries (soaked in 3tbsp of warm water)- 1tsp (optional) Method ● Ginger, grated- 1/2tsp ● Pre-heat the oven at 180°C. ● Shatavari- 1tsp (optional) ● Pressure cook the whole orange with peel for three ● Tender coconut (1/4 cup coconut fl esh + 1/2 cup coconut water)- 1 to four whistles till it is cooked and soft. Let is cool ● Pineapple (cored, sliced and tough bits removed)- 1 and remove the seeds. Blend it into a paste and ● Moringa powder- ½ tsp (optional) measure ¾ cup and keep it aside. Method ● Sieve and weigh the dry ingredients in a mixing bowl. ● Soak sabja seeds in a bowl and goji berries in a separate bowl. ● Start whipping whole eggs and add sugar gradually ● Combine pineapples slices, ginger and coconut water in a juicer (if you are using a regular blender, you might need to strain). till soft peaks are formed. Add mango, strained goji berries, shatavari and coconut fl esh to ● Slowly add the dry ingredients to the orange paste. pineapple-ginger juice and blend it again. Also add the egg mix and mix it all together with a spatula using the cut and fold method until it is a ● Strain sabja and mix into smoothie or add on top with moringa powder. Serve chilled. homogenous mixture. ● Line the baking tray with butter paper and pour ● Chef’s tip- Investing in a good smoothie blender can make your breakfast life much easier. Depending on your budget, you could the batter into it. Bake for 20 to 30 minutes. Insert either go for top of the line (Vitamix) or more affordable ones a toothpick at the centre of the cake and see if it (Hamilton Beach). It saves you from having to strain and waste time comes out clean. If it does, the cake is ready. with juices and can get a nutritious brekkie ready in minutes. ● Glaze the cake with orange marmalade.

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It’sa wrap Height of freedom Oshin Grace Daniell talks about overcoming her fear of heights

was nine when I fi rst realised up on the wall but I started trembling idea initially, they gave in after a lot of that I had a fear of heights. It and breathing so heavily that I almost whining and wallowing. was shortly after my cousin passed out. Th e day I turned 11, I made “Run as fast as you can”—these pushed me down a fl ight of stairs. a decision to fi nd a way to overcome words of my paragliding instructor IAlthough there weren’t any injuries, this fear. “How about a fl ight journey?” still echo in my head. I was the last the incident aff ected me adversely. my mother said. I got excited about person in line for the fl ying session. I From that day, I refused to do anything the plan instantly as I had never expe- had seen many who went before me that involved climbing or being on rienced it before. Th at night I dreamt stop running midway because they higher ground. When it came to of fl ying and how I would fi nally get were scared; I expected my case to friends, none of the girls included me to break the leash of fear that had me be the same. As I gathered up all my in their ground games like playing with bound for years.. energy and started running, the chute their kitchen sets or dressing up their Th e next day, I told my best friend infl ated. Before I knew it, I was up in dolls since I had a boy-cut and pretty about it and instead of being happy the air. Th ere was panic initially but much looked like a boy in my round- about my plan, he smirked. “I don’t that turned into exhilaration within neck tees and boyish shorts. A bunch think it will help. Th e glass window minutes. I saw the beautiful Western of meanies, I say. shields you from feeling the wind on Ghats, the valleys and my tiny friends But to my surprise, the boys your face; it does nothing,” he said. who watched me scream and laugh received me into their gang with open I got really upset at what he said, hysterically. Th ere was no heavy arms. Little did I know that most of however, I knew that he was right. Th at breathing or trembling; I felt free. their games involved climbing. From afternoon he brought a pamphlet for About fi ve minutes into fl ying and I trees to walls to tall gates, they just a 15-day paragliding camp by the NCC was completely calm. As a matter of wanted to climb everything. While (National Cadet Corp); he also got two fact, I absolutely loved it. Th ose 15 they did all the climbing, I stayed registration forms. Before we knew it, minutes up in the air changed my down and simply watched them we were in line for the fi tness check life completely. On the last day of our enjoy the heights. Deep down, I really and then on the train to Tamil Nadu training, we lined up for our fi nal fl y- wanted to be up there and just enjoy where we had the training. Although ing session. And guess who was fi rst in the view. Once, two of them got me my parents were doubtful about the line? Me!

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