Volume 2 | Issue 2

A MaXposure Media Group Publication CONTENTS Volume 2 | Issue 2

24

20

22 04 Journey 20 Art Lost land of the Lepchas Madhubani painting

07 Cuisine 22 Interview : Of , bread Usha Harish: A wildlife and spices photographer

10 Industry 24 Wellness Home click home For a calmer you

13 Skill 26 Culture Management lessons that Sword dance of Kumaon photography teaches us 28 Lifestyle 16 Special Car, book and restaurant World Students’ Day reviews and DIY tips

18 Initiative 30 Know How Bombay Natural History Society: New and interesting products in 16 Conserving nature the market

Tridhaatu Realty & Infra Pvt Ltd Rights: Contacts: Tathaastu is printed and published quarterly by Vikas Johari on behalf of Head Office: Plot No 246, 3rd Floor, 5th Floor, B Wing, Shrikant Chambers, MaXposure Media Group Pvt Ltd (MMGIPL) for Tridhaatu Realty & Infra Structure Okhla Phase-3, New Delhi-110020 Next to RK Studios, Pvt Ltd and published at MMGIPL, Plot No 246, 3rd Floor, Okhla Phase-3, CIN No: U22229DL2006PTC152087 Sion-Trombay Road, New Delhi-110020, India. Chembur (E), Mumbai – 400 071 Tel: +91.11.43011111, Tel: +91 22 67083000 All rights reserved. All writings, artwork and/or photography contained herein may Fax: +91.11.43011199 www.tridhaatu.com not be used or reproduced without the written permission of MMGIPL and Tridhaatu. No responsibility can be taken for the loss of unsolicited manuscripts, photographs www.maxposure.in or artwork. The views and opinions expressed or implied in the magazine are those Published by: of the authors and do not necessarily reflect those of MMGIPL or Tridhaatu. All efforts MaXposure Media Group India Pvt Ltd have been made while compiling the content of this magazine, but we assume no Publisher & COO: Vikas Johari responsibility for the effects arising there from. MMGIPL does not assume any liability CEO & Managing Director: Prakash Johari for services or products advertised herein.

2 rthaasrq LETTER FROM THE MD’s DESK

Dear Readers,

Thank you for your continued patronage and support as we welcome you to the sixth issue of Tathaastu. The magazine brings to you an interesting amalgamation of stories and we hope you will enjoy browsing through them.

We know buying a house is definitely one of the most complex and involved purchases in one’s life and real estate market in India has grown by leaps and bounds. In order to make life little easier, we tell you how the internet is now offering people the ability to compare house prices hundreds of kilometres away and get benefits with ample choices along with lucrative offers. TRIDHAATU CORE TEAM This season take a dream trip to Dzongu, a town in north Sikkim that (From left) Yashodhan Sandu, Krishnan Muthukumar, Dhananjay Sandu and Pritam Chivukula is inhabited by the Lepcha community. The sparsely populated place is a heaven for nature lovers with its beautiful mountains, dense forests, and pristine waterfalls. For food enthusiasts, we explore the Iranian cuisine that is vibrant, fragrant and rich in history. In our Skill section, we reveal how you can acquire management skills while learning the In our Special section, art of capturing life through the lens. For this issue’s Special section, we celebrate former we celebrate former president A P J Abdul Kalam whose birthday was president Abdul Kalam declared by the UN as the World Students’ Day. whose birthday was While the Art section in this edition showcases folk Madhubani painting, declared by the UN as the one of the oldest art forms from Mithila region of Bihar, in the Culture World Students’ Day section we discover Chholiya, a dance form from Kumaon region, known as sword dance.

We have always been committed to support the efforts undertaken by various organisations to make this country a better place. Keeping that tradition alive, we bring to you Bombay Natural History Society - one of the leading organisations for nature conservation - that is serving as an inspiration to young nature lovers. In our Wellness section, we tell you how yoga combined with meditation can make you healthy and happy.

Lastly, get to know about the latest product launches, and DIY tips to make use of your vintage sarees by converting them into cushion covers for interesting home decor.

We look forward to your feedback and suggestions.

www.tridhaatu.com 3 4 Embark onabeautifuljourney toDzongu where you willbelured by thelores ofthe JOURNEY LEPCHAS LOST LAND OF THE Lepchas, theoriginalinhabitants ofSikkim WORDS RHUCHA KULKARNI

Photo courtesy: Travel Gangtok Caption should come here***** Photo courtesy: Travel Gangtok Travel courtesy: Photo

(Left) A view of Dzongu; (right) a bamboo bridge in Dzongu

land of paradoxes welcomes agriculture being their major means you with warmth as you enter INTERESTING FACTS of subsistence. Social structure A this humble hamlet, nestled • The Lepcha customs and rituals is such that everyone, including without a care in a nook of north exalt its local witch-doctors or children, is involved in household Sikkim, around 70 km from Gangtok. ‘boongthings’, who are still seen and on-field chores. Peculiar On one hand the richness of Mother practicing ancient animistic rituals housing, made of stones piled upon Nature is on ample display – roaring • A special permit is required to one another and constructed without rivers, snow-clad mountains and visit Dzongu as it is a reserved the use of metal dot the countryside. virgin air penetrates your conscience abode for the Lepcha community. Truly, the Lepchas have mastered leaving you pining for more. On the the art of living in harmony other hand, the stark simplicity of with nature. the Lepcha tribes lures you into relishing the small joys of life, be it in local language, is revered as a Dzongu is a nature lover’s paradise; a warm sip of their customary millet holy deity by the Lepchas. This third the pristine climes, panoramic views drink called Chee, or an endearing largest peak in the world intimidates, and luscious greens tug at the chords song-and-dance celebration. yet calms you as its towering of your heart and soul with aplomb. frame overlooks the surrounding Let your voices drown in roars of Dzongu is among the last preserved mounts and plunging valleys. These falling waters at the Seven Sisters refuges of the indigenous folk of dramatic landscapes are home to waterfalls, an half an hour drive Sikkim, the Lepchas. Demarcated and the Khangchendzonga National Park from Dzongu. Or be carried away designated for the community in the and Biosphere Reserve, a flourishing by the majestic plunges of froth at 1960s, this remote region is blessed biodiversity hotspot. the Lingzya waterfall. Closer home with a burst of natural beauty unlike is the Tingvong waterfall where any other. The Mount Kanchenjunga The people of Lepcha community are a dip can refresh your mind and or Khangchendzonga as it’s called a simple and hardworking folk with body. As the Lepchas are adept at

www.tridhaatu.com 5 JOURNEY

HOW TO REACH By Air Fly to Bagdogra and hire a taxi to Dzongu via Singthem and Mangan (approx 5 hours) By Train Board a train to New Jalpaiguri railway station and then take a cab to Dzongu (approx 5.5 hours)

BEST TIME TO VISIT March to June Photo courtesy: Travel Gangtok Travel courtesy: Photo

(Top) A view of Kanchenjunga range; (above) A traditional Lepcha house; (right) A portrait of Lepchas

re-engineering nature’s bounty, cane around 1760 AD, it was the 5th bamboo bridges of split bamboo Lhatsun named Pema Dechhen Soak in the strong welcome you at Passingdong, above Gyatso who built it in 1789 A.D. The the Tholung monastery. holy scriptures and ancient artifacts spiritual essence provide deep insights into the life of with a visit to the For those awed by the varied way of the age-old Lamas. Tholung monastery, living, a tour of the traditional Lepcha House Museum in Namprikdang is a Have an insatiable craving for one of the most must. This replicates the traditional adventure? Head for a three-hour sacred monasteries housing architecture and customs of trek ahead of Passingdong through the Lepcha community through the lush green meadows bounded with of Sikkim artifacts on display. snow-capped mountains to arrive at the idyllic Lingthem village. Other Soak in the strong spiritual blissful villages to roam around portal to Khangchendzonga. Indeed, essence with a visit to the Tholung while soaking in the bucolic sights as you gaze up at its golden slopes monastery, one of the oldest and and sounds are Tingvong village dazzling in the morning sun, the most sacred monasteries of Sikkim. and the twin villages of Sakyong mountain seems to mock man’s tiny, Identified as a holy site by the 4th and Pentong. Beliefs go that these inconspicuous place in the larger Lhatsun, Kunzang Jigme Gyatso twin hamlets hold the fabled sacred scheme of things. 

6 CUISINE

OF RICE, BREADS AND SPICES Complex yet captivating, Iranian cuisine, even in its modern avatar, is a goldmine for a curious palate

WORDS MADHULIKA DASH

hile travelling the world Such was the fame of Persian food It was during this time that Persia, to find an alternate (and cooks) that when Abbasid which included modern day , Wroute to Asia for silk and Caliphate came to power and ruled became a significant trade station on peacock, the famous Herodotus much of Middle East and parts of the Silk (Spice) Route for merchants went missing. Discovered years Spain, Portugal and North Africa, and travellers, and developed a later by some travellers, the Greek he only employed Persian chefs to cuisine more evolved than rest of historian confessed he was seduced cook for dignitaries and state guests. the world, albeit with one difference. by the lure of good Persian food. If historians are to be believed, Known for its unique culinary An investigation into the claim the “good food” remained one of styles – even back then the Persian landed more Greeks to Persia, who the secrets behind the dynasty’s food market had dishes that were eventually decided to settle there. long rule. a mélange of sweet, spicy and the

www.tridhaatu.com 7 CUISINE

(From left) Kabab Koobideh and Persian stew with beef

fragrant – it was a port that exported served with kabab koobideh, minced the inside. This rice is then cooked food inspiration to the rest of the lamb mixed with herbs as part of a over a layer of or potato slices world. For instance, the and communal meal. Another example of placed in the bottom of the pan to reached India with the Arab Iranian culinary ingenuity is the pilaf. form a crust. travellers, and the art of using milk in Unlike the pilaf (polov or palow) that desserts led to the birth of Mexican originates from India and rest of the Another Iranian delicacy is the Cajeta Flan and Tres Leche. Such world, the Iranian version is cooked khoresht. The word encompasses has been their contribution to the and served differently. Like the Shirin Iranian’s love for stews. Often served world cuisine that today if you pick alongside rice, kebab and breads, any dish from the world, the chances khoresht is a fine example of Iranian are the history will take you to Iran. style of packing a range of flavours The Iranian cuisine is a combination Fesenjan is a sweet- in one dish: from sweet to salty to of several food cultures with vibrant savoury stew made aromatic. Some of the finer examples flavour profiles and taste notes. of , and of khoresht are Khoresht-e- Ghormeh- sabzi, a stew of meat, vegetables What you eat as part of the Iranian juice and ; Khoresht-e-, a cuisine today has a distinctive stamp mixed with meat stew of meat, potato, and split than others – and this isn’t just in the peas; , a rich casserole flavours but also the way it is cooked, of lamb with herbs, dried limes and which is fascinatingly indigenous, polow, a festive dish studded with kidney beans; and the iconic fesenjan with a history added to it. chicken, orange rind and . (Khoresht-e-Fesenjan). A specialty of It is served with succulent ground northern Iran, fesenjan is a sweet- Take the case of nan-e . A beef seasoned with turmeric, savory stew made of walnut, and traditional bread that’s baked over , and . The softness pomegranate juice mixed with the hot pebbles lining the bottom of a of the rice is between the kateh polo meat of your choice. A vegetarian wood-fired oven, leaving charred and everyday favourite Abkesh, which alternative to this is the Mirza indentations on the loaf; it is a has rice cooked similar to Italian Ghasemi. A Caspian region special, traditional accompaniment with pasta. In fact, Tah Deeg, a common it is based on roasted skewered stews and kebabs. While modern Iran rice preparation across Iran, uses a eggplant seasoned with , has an affinity towards lavash, the year-old parboiled rice cooked to tomato, turmeric, oil or butter, and salt bread made first by the Armenians, the right degree of al dente texture – much like our baigan bharta, but this coat-style oblong bread is often so that it retains a hint of bite on includes eggs as a finishing garnish.

8 IRANI CHAI: THE RISE OF A NATIONAL DRINK

Coffee may have reached Iran first, but when it comes to the favourite all-day hot beverage today, it is tea that rules. The dark-than-merlot hue drink is a common sight through the streets of Iran, which is strewn with numerous chaikhanehs. A national drink today, tea during its first outing in Iran (then part of the Ottoman Empire) was seen A cuisine built for every palate and lavashak, Persian-style fruit leather, more as a medicine. It became culinary temperament, Iranian cuisine is a farther cousin of aam papad in a people’s drink in 1556 when is high on dairy-free dishes as well. India, while the Koloocheh, soft bread intrigued by its balmy quality and Two excellent example of this are the stuffed with a filling of cinnamon, ability to digest a good meal, the , which is a bit like frittata, or a walnut and sugar, may have single- then mayor of Tehran in Qajar quiche, using chickpea flour in place handedly laid the founding stone for rule, Kashef Al Saltaneh travelled of wheat; and the ãsh, a rich, beany, puffs and kulchas across the globe. to India and worked there as a vegan herb soup. French labour to know the secrets Though a largely dry nation, Iran has of tea growing, and as a parting Known for its oldest street food over the time developed beverages gift stole 3,000 samplings of culture, Iranian cuisine is packed that have more than made up for the Assam finest tea. Considered the with sweets and savoury dishes that lack of a good tippler; for instance, father of Iranian chai, Kashef not give Iranian food the world connect Iranian beer. This non-alcoholic malt only started the tea culture in and history too. Take the , beverage is a close cousin of the root Iran but also the ritual of enjoying the traditional candy floss made with beer – with the same fizz and punch an Irani chai. Tea in Iran is a dark, wheat flour and the sholeh zard, a of a real one. The other example is bitter liquor that is had with a saffron rice pudding made with water Doogh, a mint and herb garnished sugar cube in the mouth. Brewed instead of milk. In fact, the Iranian ice drink. And of course, there is slowly in a , the tea in cream – made of pistachios, fruit pulp the famous Irani chai – the black brew fact is considered the real wine of and garnished with cream and nuts, is that led to the creation of tea houses Iran – that can be had anytime, said to be the oldest in the world. The and hookah bars in the Silk Route.  even for a game of chess.

(Top) Vegetable pilaf; (below) grilled koobideh with vegetables and flat bread and fesenjan

www.tridhaatu.com 9 INDUSTRY

HOME CLICK HOME How has the digital era affected the home-buying process? We find out

WORDS KUNAL DOLEY

10 one are the days when Companies such as Housing.com, consumers would feel CommonFloor.com and PropTiger.com Guncomfortable taking the A practical site visit have been investing in technology online route to buy their dream and recce of the and manpower to make house homes. Traditionally used to working hunting easier. From virtual with local brokers, the internet is neighbourhood is a walkthroughs to 3D rendering of now offering people the ability to must while zeroing in properties to facilitating site visits compare house prices hundreds of on a home because and handling documentation, these kilometres away, most of the times portals are making it easier for without even leaving home. This seeing is believing customers to choose property. holds true for a vast country like India where the property market However, all said and done, a is estimated to be worth over $121 practical site visit and recce of the billion, as per reports. savvy and are seeking information neighbourhood is a must while and transparency when dealing zeroing in on a home. This is because The logic for this change in with developers. seeing is believing. Buying a home perception seems to be simple. A is probably one of the biggest single broker would have his own If we look at some data from Google, financial commitments the buyer limited contacts, and he could more than eight million people would ever make. Hence, nothing have personal reasons for pushing search for real estate information will beat a practical site visit and a property. Online, you can get a online in the country. Before zeroing personal inspection. holistic view. in on a property, the internet-savvy consumer’s in-depth research While it may not be possible for a Indian consumers are now not only includes details of the developer, common man to comment on the researching properties online before location, cost, and a lot more. The quality of construction or materials buying, they are even making a volume of real estate-related queries used, deviations from the master further commitment by paying is growing at the rate of 35 per cent plan can be spotted quite easily. the booking amount. This seems year-on-year, out of which about half The buyer should check that the to be the natural progression for the queries are made with the intent brochure, blue print and the actual buyers who are now younger, tech- of a purchase. project are all in line.

www.tridhaatu.com 11 INDUSTRY

Also, when a buyer regularly visits true sense of the term. When you the site, it makes the builder feel visit the place often, you may also responsible. Looking at the extra Timely possession discover new ways to design and effort that the buyer is putting into customise the space for yourself. You the site, the builder will ensure is often on the can also speak to the builder about that work is happening well and home buyer’s any additional amenities that you make an initiative to build effective priority list; regular might need like fixing an extra grill conversations with you about gate at the entrance for more safety the project. visits to the site or getting a wardrobe fitted on to the can help a buyer wall or changing the location of the Timely possession is often on the bathroom wash basin. home buyer’s priority list; regular check the pace visits to the site can help a buyer and progression of The virtual space is making the check the pace and progression of dream of buying a home a reality for the construction. Along with the the construction millions of urban Indians.  progress of construction, home buyers can look at a few other things such as the brands of materials used in the project.

The buyer can also inspect the amenities available at the project site. For instance, one can find out if there is a swimming pool or club house as mentioned in the layout plan.

Last but not the least, you should pay a visit to the project site for your own personal satisfaction, if not for anything else. After all, it is going to be a place you will call home, in the

12 FOCUS ON THE RIGHT GOALS Acquire key management skills as you learn to master the art of capturing imagination SKILL

think a photography class should DISCIPLINE technologies in cameras, you need be a requirement in all educational The most important skill photography to constantly upgrade yourself. As a Iprograms because it makes you teaches is discipline – to click at leader, you need to be in touch with see the world rather than just look at the right time. You may be able to the latest to be able to guide your it.” This anonymous quote says a lot capture one great picture after a subordinates well and work on fresh about this creative pursuit, one which thousand random clicks, but to make and effective strategies. Discipline can teach you some valuable lessons every click a great one requires also teaches us that there are no in management. The foremost being effort. And with the advent of new shortcuts in life and success can only to observe situations in depth so that you get the grasp on the situation and take smart, informed decisions.

Besides, you also learn discipline, patience, resilience and creativity which will stand you in good stead in the professional sphere as well. Even if it’s not your “talent”, with hard work and a good guide, photography can be learned and mastered. It’s not only about capturing images. Photography is about understanding the processes of light, aperture, shutter, focus, angle, subject, object, motion, direction and frame. This might sound easy, but it is only when these elements come together perfectly that you get a good photograph.

14 Creativity comes gradually – once you get the hang of the camera and learn what kind of frame you need

be achieved by learning the skill the right way. Remember, there are no free lunches in life.

CREATIVITY Just like in any profession, creativity comes gradually – once you get the hang of the camera and learn what kind of frame you need. The frame depends upon the subject of photography and you learn it as you keep experimenting. As you understand how your subject interacts with the surroundings, you start gauging the light required. The minute details that you wish to capture require practice, and clicking a lot of photographs helps you realise (Top) A young photographer taking photos at the sunset what all needs improvement.

‌PATIENCE This is one skill that actually helps it. Sometimes intuition can trump FOCUS you become a better photographer, reasoning and you might end up Focusing on the subject for hours and manager. You need to learn clicking a masterpiece. and patiently waiting to bring his to frame your subjects, their ‌ concept on the paper is essential for backgrounds, the light, the angle, or RESILIENCE a photographer. Managing a project the story you want to tell. Since all Photography helps you learn requires similar commitment and a these things don’t come automatically resilience. Be it getting that perfect targeted, clear approach. Only then or at the same time, you need shot or achieving the business target, are the goals achieved – be it a to imbibe the essential virtue it takes a lot of effort and repeated photograph or the accomplishment of patience. While at it, trust your labour, and that may leave one of an important business target. instinct even though you might not dejected on several occasions. But And then, every endeavour fully understand the reason behind one has to keep trying. seems worthwhile. 

www.tridhaatu.com 15 SPECIAL

IN MEMORY OF THE NATION’S INSPIRATION As a mark of honour to our 11th President Dr APJ Abdul Kalam, the UN declared his birthday on October 15 as “World Students’ Day” in 2010. And recently, the ICSE board made his biography a part of their syllabus. Here’s our tribute to the Missile Man of India who always wanted to be remembered as a teacher

orn on October 15, 1931, Avul Pakir Jainulabdeen BAbdul Kalam was raised in the small town of Rameswaram in Tamil Nadu. His father was a boat owner and imam at a local mosque; his mother a homemaker. Despite his humble origins, Dr Kalam went on to attend St. Joseph’s College in Tiruchirappalli, affiliated to University of Madras, where he graduated in physics in 1954. After graduation from Madras Institute of Technology in 1960 in aerospace engineering, he joined the Aeronautical Development Establishment of the Defence Research & Development Organisation (DRDO) as a scientist.

He earned many honours during his tenure here. Vikram Sarabhai, a renowned space scientist, headed a committee here called INCOSPAR (The Indian National Committee for Space Research) of which Dr Kalam was a part. He also visited NASA’s Langley Research Center in Hampton, Virginia and Goddard Space Flight Center in

16 Green Belt, Maryland in 1963-64. In 1969, Dr Kalam was designated as project director of India’s first Satellite Launch Vehicle (SLV-III) at Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO). This project helped in successfully deploying the Rohini satellite in near earth orbit in July 1980. He also worked on the Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV). He was intimately (Clockwise from top) Dr Kalam with students, a sand involved in India’s civilian space art in honour of the late president, Dr Kalam with former South African president programme and military missile Nelson Mandela development efforts. 25, 2002, and due to his hard work He was the Scientific Adviser to and efforts, he came to be known Defence Minister and Secretary, as the “People’s President”. He was Department of Defence Research Dr Kalam won many also the recipient of many prestigious & Development from July 1992 to awards including Bharat Ratna, the December 1999. During this tenure, prestigious awards highest civilian honour in India. Dr Kalam spearheaded India’s including Bharat Ratna, Pokhran-II nuclear test, in 1998. On July 27, 2015, Dr Kalam died This was the first nuclear test since the highest civilian of a cardiac arrest while doing the original nuclear test India did in honour in India what he loved most – interacting 1974. His role in developing missiles with students and imparting his under the mission including Agni knowledge and experience to – an intermediate range of ballistic In November 2001, Dr Kalam them. He was delivering a lecture missiles, and Prithvi – the tactical took up his passion and became in Shillong’s Indian Institute of surface-to-surface missile, and professor, Technology & Societal Management. His sudden demise left the development of Launch Vehicle Transformation, at Anna University, the nation in tears. But his teachings Technology earned him the title of Chennai. He went on to being elected continue to live in the heart and mind “Missile Man of India”. as the 11th President of India on July of every Indian. 

www.tridhaatu.com 17 INITIATIVE

CONSERVING NATURE One of India’s leading non-government organisations, Bombay Natural History Society, has been promoting the cause of conservation for more than 130 years

WORDS BILWADA KALE

t was 1883 when eight men BNHS one of the leading conservation maharajas to conduct surveys and gathered to discuss a topic that organisations in the sub-continent. scientific studies. People like Dr Salim Ibound them all – wildlife. Little Ali began conducting bird surveys – did they know that their interest As scientific study gained pace, funded by maharajas – to document and meeting would give India one BNHS became a hub for wildlife birds found in that particular region, of its best and oldest organisations conservation activities with an thus beginning the process of engaged in nature conservation increasing number of people joining bio-diversity documentation. Since activities, the Bombay Natural History the group. The members of the then the Society has worked on the Society (BNHS), which was established Society undertook field surveys, conservation of birds, mammals, on September 15 the same year. This contributed to the collection and amphibians, reptiles and marine life group met regularly to discuss and curating process, and analysed results too. BNHS expanded to establish field exchange ideas as being hunters to write scientific notes and papers. stations at Point Calimere in Tamil they took note of the diminishing Nadu, Nagpur in central Maharashtra, wildlife. Their journey from hunters BNHS collaborated with stakeholders and Ratnagiri, with its head office, to conservationists is what made like local government bodies and Hornbill House, in Mumbai.

18 BNHS also conducted studies at 22 Sri Lanka. Education through nature aerodromes to come up with solutions BNHS conducted started with the establishment of to reduce bird strikes as they can be a studies at 22 Conservation Education Centres in significant threat to the aircraft safety. Mumbai, Delhi and Nagpur. The Society also conducted a study aerodromes to come on bird migration as it is instrumental up with solutions to The Hornbill House in Mumbai is in understanding the route birds take reduce bird strikes a hub of activities with members, while taking off from one place to researchers and students across arrive at another destination. This age groups reaching out to BNHS information is useful during health of extinction due to excessive use of for referencing in the library and scares like bird flu. Recently, after the a painkiller drug called diclofenac for collections department for their death of migratory birds at Delhi zoo cattle. Working closely with locals, research. The priceless collection of due to bird flu, experts from BNHS the government and policy makers, old books, lithographs, photographs along with the authorities sanitised BNHS succeeded in convincing the and specimens collected over the the Sultanpur National Park near Delhi government to ban veterinary use years make the library at BNHS one as a precautionary measure. of diclofenac, thus giving vultures a of the best resources available. The new lease of life. The trend to work souvenirs and environment-friendly Nature conservation initiatives are with policy makers was set early in products designed by BNHS are also incomplete without involving local time with the declaration of Keoladeo popular among nature lovers, the communities who are the most National Park on the recommendation proceeds from which are used for affected. BNHS works closely with of BNHS. Additionally, BNHS played a nature conservation activities. communities in diverse areas on major role in the drafting of Wildlife different conservation arenas, like Protection Act and the Project Tiger. BNHS’ 133 years of nature in Pench National Park and Tadoba conservation and wildlife protection Andhari Tiger Project for conserving BNHS has always engaged common serve as an inspiration to young tigers and generating alternate people in various ways for the nature naturalists and nature lovers. The livelihood options for locals. Amur conservation activities. The Society organisation still works on the falcon, a migratory bird which halts reaches out to people through support and motivation provided by in the northeast region during its nature trails and camps, nature members young and old. The road to long flight from Mongolia to Africa, education, magazines and books, conservation is a long one and we can was being killed in large numbers and conservation through community never traverse it alone!  for its meat. BNHS joined hands with participation. The concept of nature local communities and other non- trail – started in 1924 – aims to governmental organisations to stop provide field experience to people the mass killing of these birds in while helping them understand Nagaland and protect the specie. nature. Such trails are now conducted at places around Mumbai while nature Nature’s best clean-up masters, the camps are organised across India vultures, have also faced the threat and in countries like Thailand and Picture courtesy: Bilwada Kale Bilwada courtesy: Picture

www.tridhaatu.com 19 ART

MADHUBANI: THE ART OF PAINTING TREASURES This folk art form showcases Mithila’s rich visual culture and the talent of the artists

WORDS AKANKSHA JAIN

ndia is dotted with rich heritage One such tradition that has been houses, lobbies of some famous hotels and each region depicts a different passed on from women to their and even draped around women Iculture and a tradition. Since time daughters is folk painting, especially on sarees. immemorial, traditions in India have Madhubani painting, considered the been passed on from one generation language of womenfolk. Madhubani painting comes from the to another, which carries the legacy cow belt region of India, Bihar, where forward with improvisation and Madhubani paintings can be seen women and men are seen immersed great respect. adorning the living rooms of several in creating beautiful intricate patterns

20 on various surfaces with nibs, brushes, fingers and even match sticks.

As per the legend, Madhubani paintings, also known as Mithila art that has its origins in Nepal too, were used by King Janak to decorate his kingdom on the occasion of his daughter Sita’s wedding. Madhubani, an important part of the Mithila culture and community, is also known as likhiya (writing).

In the earlier days, Madhubani, which Bharti Dayal courtesy: Photo derives its name from ‘honey’ and ‘wood’, was used to draw different forms of gods, goddesses, flowers like lotus, fish, bamboo groves, birds, and paintings, because of the efforts of snakes as well. Madhubani became Tokio Hasegawa, who established the Mithila Museum in Tokamachi. Here, Once only painted on paper, mud world famous when nearly 900 Madhubani paintings are houses or on bark of trees and wood, artefacts of these exhibited on a regular basis. today Madhubani paintings can be painting emerged seen on canvas, cushion covers, Today, Madhubani painting is not utensils and even bangles too. during an earthquake only about depicting icons of Hindu in Bihar in 1934 mythology and nature, it has taken a One of the distinctive features in the contemporary twist with innovative Madhubani paintings is the use of icons and figures being painted on sun and moon as it is believed they vases, scarves, dresses, bags and a bring joy and prosperity to the lives then in-charge William Archer was so lot more.  of people. Hence, Madhubani art was impressed with the art form that he carried out inside the houses as well. took the paintings to London. Today, you can spot the paintings at London’s Madhubani art can be divided into five Victoria and Albert Museum. styles – Bharni, Katchni, Tantrik, Godna and Gobar. In the 1960s, women from Apart from Archer, a French novelist upper castes indulged only in the first Yves Vequad also did extensive three forms of the painting style. The research and made a documentary colours that dominate the paintings on ‘The Women Painters of Mithila’. are red, green, blue and black as Many other foreign-based artists they create beautiful patterns on light have been involved in making these brownish surface. paintings famous and providing global recognition. Today, Madhubani art is The paintings became world famous known as the ‘ratna of Bihar’. when artefacts of these painting emerged during a massive earthquake Madhubani style of painting has in Bihar in 1934. Before that it was just received international acclaim as a domestic activity, done by people well. The Ford Foundation has been for personal use. As the walls tumbled associated with Madhubani painting during the earthquake, the paintings for a long time. Japan has also were seen by the British and the shown a keen interest in Madhubani A Madhubani painting of an Indian woman

www.tridhaatu.com 21 22 by theEastAfricanWildLifeSociety. African WildlifePhotographerof2016 2014, andwasawardedtheEast Commission inUgandasinceAugust photographer fortheIndianHigh Usha Harishhasbeenanofficial preserved wildlifeandbirdlife. bringing outthebestfromAfrica’s based inKenya,sheisworkingon behaviour intriguehermost.Currently colours, animalpatternsand T wildlife andnature.Beautiful is anavidtraveller,andloves his self-taughtphotographer the emotions ofanimalsintheirnaturalhabitat.Shetalksaboutherlove for wildlife Usha Harish, anIndianbasedinEastAfrica for thepast8years, loves tocapture INTERVIEW THE WILD photography andtranslatingthoseimagesinto astory CLICKING IN CLICKING IN Kenya withmyhusbandin2008. But thischangedwhenImovedto be dabbledwithduringholidays. parked inthenameofa‘hobby’to great interestinphotography,itwas I choseaccounting.Despitehaving career insomegooddisciplineand thenthefocuswastomakea back nature andwilderness.However, India, surroundedbygreenery, I wasbornandraisedinsouthern to takeupphotography? photographer. Whatinspiredyou You areanaccountant-turned- AS TOLD TO DISHA GANJOO

My experienceofbeinginthewild in differentmoods? How difficultisittoclickanimals photography safaris. and Indiaforseveralwildlife to Tanzania,Botswana,SouthAfrica, photography grewasIventuredafield My relentlessloveforwildlifeand explore, firstKenya,andthenUganda. nature andwildlife.Ibeganto realised mypassionforphotography, during myfirsttriptoMasaiMara.I Something withinmechangedforever

Photos courtesy: Usha Harish and various encounters with the animals have helped me understand their behaviour. I like to tell a story in every photograph, whether it’s a grumpy elephant, an angry lion, a vulnerable impala, or a mischievous monkey. Capturing emotions in humans and animals are similar in some sense, except that in the wild, it is unpredictable. An understanding of the animal’s behaviour and patience helps me get the right photograph. Any photography preferences? and patience as it’s all about “lighting Do you fear the unpredictability I have a special liking towards black and sighting”. of animals? and white images; I prefer clicking The wild will always remain wild. animals in their habitat. Every wild What are your future plans? However, with time you begin to animal is beautiful, be it a warthog, I live for the moment. I am happy to understand the behavioural cues a hyena or a hippo. What classifies have gained different experiences in of the birds and animals. There them is their size, structure and life. From a Chartered Accountant I are instances when I begin the features. An image devoid of colours became a photographer, and now I photoshoot with butterflies in my brings out that characteristic in an am trying to be a successful mom to stomach. But I enjoy the thrill and animal. But for my bird photography, I a 7-year-old. I am trying to increase adventure the experience brings and love to add colours to the pictures. awareness of wildlife conservation relish it when I am able to capture through social media, conservation the moment the way I want. Once I How is photographing for project photoshoots, exhibitions and encountered a full grown silverback official events different from photo tours. I am happy that my work gorilla at an arm’s distance. It was wildlife photography? has been noticed and inspired others intimidating but somehow I kept my As a wildlife photographer I enjoy to be aware of different animals. calm and slowly clicked pictures. the unpredictability. I have learnt to Another time a cheetah jumped right be quick with my reflexes to capture Apart from photography what onto the top of my vehicle. I was the moment and to play around with makes you instant happy? only a couple of metres away. I was the natural light. In an official event, I enjoy being with children, and their shaking initially but in a few seconds, the approach is different as a plan is innocent pranks make me instant I calmed down and started clicking chalked out. In wildlife photography happy. I also feel happy when I listen the big cat. one has to have an open mind, luck to Carnatic music on the violin. 

www.tridhaatu.com 23 WELLNESS

FOR A CALMER YOU Practicing meditation as a part of your yoga session helps you get a peaceful mind, improve overall fitness, relieve stress and make the journey called life happier and more fulfilling

24 oga, the ancient physical experience joy and prosperity. and spiritual discipline, is Meditation must become a way Ybeing practiced from the of life where your mind is free of time immemorial. Today, it’s not scattered thoughts and patterns, and just confined to Indian homes, but other distractions. It helps us achieve has also become one of the most mind and body connection. practiced forms of exercise and therapy abroad as well because yoga Initially, you might find it difficult shows us the way to live a healthy to meditate as you sit in one pose A statue of meditating Buddha and happy life. and a barrage of thoughts cross your mind. But practicing it often can help Yoga, though already popular among Yoga has also been declared as a you get desired results. Honing the foreigners for a long time, became useful way to cure diseases and art of meditation requires patience an international event after Indian ailments like headache, fever, flu, and skill. Trying to be mindful of Prime Minister Narendra Modi in asthma, back pain, controlling blood the present moment and not letting 2014 suggested that June 21 be sugar, hypertension, indigestion, thoughts about your past and future declared as ‘International Day of depression, and liver problems. If distract you, help you streamline Yoga’, with the aim of “freeing the practiced regularly, yoga helps keep your attention. universe from stress and spread many health problems at bay. the message of love, peace, unity Yoga and meditation practiced and goodwill”. However, when one combines yoga together work as a healing therapy with meditation, the results are more to provide you a sense of intense Yoga, now considered an important beneficial as then it controls your relaxation as meditation being one of holistic regime for the mind and the mind and soul along with the body. the five principles of yoga enhances body, does not limit itself to asanas It promotes better habits in one’s life. the other four – exercise, diet, or the physical practice. It must not breathing, and relaxation. be practiced for obtaining flexibility. In fact, meditation, which means Apart from the physical activity, ‘the act of focusing your mind’ is During yoga one is preoccupied yoga is about gaining energy, to regarded as one of the main aspects with their bodies, but meditating wake up and be aware of your mind of yoga and it must be considered for a while after physical activity and body, improve posture, alleviate necessary to meditate after helps you open your heart, have anxiety and depression, increase practising asanas as it helps delve a balanced and calmer mind, and blood flow, boost metabolism, deep into our own self. Meditation know and control on how your mind improve balance, and help calm the guides us to subtler aspects of works. It also helps you untie the mind to handle emotions well. life, our own being, and help us knots in your heart and mind. 

www.tridhaatu.com 25 CULTURE

SWORD DANCE OF KUMAON Dating back to over a thousand years, Chholiya has its roots in old-day marriage rituals. This dance form is said to protect the newlyweds from evil spirits and demons

WORDS DISHA GANJOO Picture courtesy: Lokesh Bisht Lokesh courtesy: Picture

26 wing its origin to the dancers while the other 14 are martial arts of Kumaon, musicians. This royal dance of OChholiya – a sword dance – swords and shields is beautifully is mainly performed by the paired with different kinds of bass community of Kumaon region in instruments like turi, nagphani . Dating back to the and ransing, as well as percussion The dancers try to 10th century, Chholiya has its origin instruments including dhol and convey fear, joy, in the warring Khasiya kingdom of damau. Earlier used to boost awe and wonder Khandesh where weddings were the morale of the troops, these performed at the point of swords. instruments now complement through their use of the grace of Chholiya. Perfectly eyes, eyebrows and In earlier days, Kshatriyas would synchronised with the music, the accompany the king to protect him dance is characterised by jumps and shoulders from enemies. Due to the power and turns of the body as the dancers authority wielded by the king, the showcase their sword-fighting feats. Kshatriyas could scare the girls from and around the villages and marry Chholiya is performed in traditional them forcefully. All this authority Kumaoni attire. The costumes There are various forms of Chholiya, and fear came from the sword. So, resemble the ones worn by ancient differing from each other in terms of in contemporary performances of martial warriors who inhabited the the movements. Bisu , Saraanv, Chholiya, this weapon symbolises Kumaon region – a white churidar Rann Nritya, Veerangana, Chholiya fear. Over time, the concept of pyjama, a taanka (turban) on the Baja, Sarankar, Shauka Shaili and forceful marriages diminished, but head and a long chol. The faces Paitan Baja are the different kinds of the tradition of dance continued. of the dancers are covered with Chholiya popular across the Kumaon People now believe it to be an sandalwood paste and decorated region – in Pithoragarh, Champawat, auspicious dance form which with vermillion. Armed with the , Almora and Garhwal. protects newlywed couples from evil swords and brass shields, it seems spirits and demons. Perhaps this is as if the artists are getting ready for Tradition is kept alive in the one reason why Chholiya has more a battle. Accompanied by war-like sword feats, music and symbols of grandeur to it than other folk dances music and a huge red flag with Chholiya. And most importantly, of the region. animal symbols on it, the dancers through the specially trained try to convey fear, joy, awe and Rajput dancers whose profession The Chholiya dance is performed wonder through their bold use of is not dancing, it is the rarity of by 22 men – 8 of them are sword eyes, eyebrows and shoulders. fine swordsmanship. 

www.tridhaatu.com 27 LIFESTYLE

FIRST DRIVE TOYOTA FORTUNER Toyota brought in the new Fortuner, with a sleek and edgy design. Engine options include a 2.8-litre turbo diesel making 177 PS and 420 Nm (450 Nm for the AT version) and, for the first time in the Fortuner, a 2.7-litre naturally- aspirated petrol making 166 PS and 245 Nm. Diesel-powered variants are equipped with either a six-speed manual transmission (MT) or a six-speed automatic transmission (AT), while the petrol variants use a five-speed MT or a six-speed AT. Four-wheel-drive is available only in the diesel variants. Safety kit includes ABS, EBD, seven SRS airbags, vehicle stability control, and seat belts with pretensioners in the front row. Prices begin at INR 25.92 lakh for the petrol variants and INR 27.52 lakh for the diesel variants (all prices ex- showroom Delhi). 

BOOKWORM WHITE MOUNTAIN BY ROBERT TWIGGER

The Himalayas are home to near Imphal during the 2nd Buddhists, Jains, Muslims, Hindus, World War. Twigger leaves no shamans and Bonposa. People mountain path untouched in his travel to the Himalayas for a book as he writes a fascinating dream journey, a pilgrimage, wars and surprising journey of the and expeditions, hunting and a Himalayas - part of a vast spiritual experience. British author mountain belt that stretches Robert Twigger, in his new book halfway around the world from “White Mountain” unravels some North Africa to the Pacific Ocean real and imaginary journeys as he coast of Southeast Asia. explores the seismic history of the Himalayas. He is fascinated by the Each chapter opens with a mountains as his father was born proverb and mentions stories in a Himalayan hill resort. As he from mountaineers, mystics, follows a meandering path across pundits and prophets. Brief the Himalayas, he seeks out the and unexpected excursions of Nagas who helped his grandfather Twigger’s own past make the read build a camp for Allied soldiers interesting and entertaining. 

28 RESTAURANT REVIEW THALASSA

This season welcome the Greek taverna with a big heart as Goa’s iconic restaurant Thalassa brings the smell of the sea and the Goa vibe to Mumbai.

Located at 21st street, Khar, this restaurant is Thalassa’s owner and head chef Mariketty Grana’s foray into the maximum city. The Mumbai restaurant will give you same signature warmth and happiness-on- a-plate so that you do not miss Goa. nestled away from Mumbai’s delicious desserts. The menu is Thalassa has been built in a chaotic pace, is a courtyard where divided into themes like dips sprawling yet intimate space, time slows down over food and and appetisers, salads, grill and its design and ambience with wine. There is a cellar named after rotisserie, souvlaki and gyros its classic white and blue Dionysus – the god of wine. and desserts. You can club your decor, vintage terrazzo flooring food with heady range of wines and traditional music will make A well priced menu encompasses and signature cocktails like the you feel like you are in Greece. traditional Greek comfort food, Mykonos Blue, Tropical Storm and Canopied with bougainvillea, healthy vegetarian selection and Poseidon’s Elixir. 

DIY REUSING YOUR OLD SAREES FOR HOME DECOR A lot of our outfits get packed for 1.5cm seam allowances. and never get to see the daylight 2. Pin the cushion front and back again. Silk sarees are one of those together; tack 1.5cm in from the items that occupy closet space and sides, round 3 sides and 4 corners, are difficult to part with. We tell leaving a gap on one side. Sew the you how you can transform old panels, secure thread ends, and sarees and display your creativity remove tacking. by converting them into cushion 3. You can add motifs or borders covers. of sarees to cushion covers for a designer look. All you need is some patience, and 4. Turn the cushion cover right side these steps: out, press and insert cushion pad. 1. Shortlist your favourite saree, Using a needle and matching thread, measure your cushion pad and add stitch the fourth opening to close. 3cm to each measurement to allow Your cushion covers are ready!

www.tridhaatu.com 29 KNOW HOW

now in fitness WORKOUT AT HOME

LifeSpan E2i Elliptical Cross Trainer

For those whose office hours do not leave them with the luxury of visiting a gym regularly, we bring to them an option to workout at home. Try LifeSpan E2i Elliptical Cross Trainer which helps you do cardios and focus on toning the body.

A solid metallic construction, this cross trainer can be used for popular fitness exercises while it gives you the feeling of working in a gym. The best part is that this cross trainer helps you get full- body workout without troubling your knees or putting stress on your joints. Its integrated core balance technology helps in injury prevention and the advanced technology also provides you with the right calculations on the amount of pressure exerted by your now in accessories body. Correcting your imbalances thoroughly, LifeSpan E2i Elliptical Cross trainer gives you the overall CELEBRATING WITH SILVER GIFTS toning and emphasis that you have been missing out on not having a Frazer and Haws has been on the back of a reindeer brings us the very feeling of Christmas. personal trainer.  designing the most exquisite silver collectibles and precious Well-crafted reindeers carry the jewelry for over 250 years. Their burden of light on their horns, silver items are most sought only to make sure that we after for their craftsmanship, don’t forget the very essence design and finish. The silver of Christmas. products from the brand are always sterling silver (92.5%) Another item you can go for and hallmarked. is Ice Bucket that is not basic, boring and cliched. This stylish Their Indian collection is created product has royal looks with around traditions and is homage golden coloured detailing on to a melange of religions, culture the front. and beliefs. Lastly, we bring to you Cake This festive season do not miss Platter as no festive season is out on the special range of complete without cakes. This products brought out by the timeless piece will sprinkle the brand to add glamour to your touch of class and lavishness at celebrations and give a chic look your dining table during get- to your home. togethers and parties. The spark of silver at your abode will Check out their Safari Butler. The redefine the aura of celebration beautifully crafted candlesticks and merry-making. 

30

Tridhaatu Protsaahan has been launched with the thought of supporting young Indian sportspersons and sports in general. Tridhaatu endorses sportspersons from various disciplines such as Basketball, Badminton, Cycling and Running. Tridhaatu also supports the cause of special children with the help of this initiative.

Tridhaatu Sanskruti aims to promote Indian Culture, Arts and Music by supporting various music and cultural events. Music and arts are important aspects of Indian culture and Tridhaatu aims to keep this tradition alive for future generations. Tridhaatu Sanskruti also supports the cause of Fine Arts, Indian Classical Music & Dance on a regular basis.

With the idea of conserving our environment and supporting green initiatives, we have launched the Tridhaatu Sanrakshan program. The aim is to take efforts to not only sensitize the public but also be actively involved in creating a positive change. We are actively associated with Bombay Natural History Society (BNHS) and conduct educational walks, workshop and meets.

If you would like us to feature your article/story, please write in with your contribution and share your feedback. Also, if you wish to refer our magazine and recommend it to more readers please write to us and we shall send a copy to them. You can reach us at [email protected]

Follow us on facebook.com/Tridhaatu, twitter.com/Tridhaatu

Tridhaatu Realty & Infra Pvt Ltd 5th Floor, B Wing, Shrikant Chambers, Next to RK Studios, Sion-Trombay Road, Chembur (E), Mumbai – 400 071 Tel: +91 22 67083000 www.tridhaatu.com

BC.indd 32 12/30/16 1:29 PM