For Private Circulation Only Presented by the students of PG Diploma in Journalism October 2016

Journalists, take care

How safe are jour- nalists today? As budding journalists and against the back- ground of current hostility to the me- dia, this question has been surfacing on our minds. What triggered us to have a two page spread this issue is the ‘International Day to end Impunity PC : Google for Crimes against Nisha Shah has everything for everyone, be it the Bandraites want to enjoy with aside to improve the life of people in Journalists’ observed Avani Gangurde theatre, literature, music, art, gastron- their friends and family. Bandra. Since the festival has such a omy, dance and much more. “Bandra When asked about what new events strong community connect, it does not on November 2. We very year in November, Bandra is a melting pot of culture but unfortu- people can expect at the festival this come as a surprise when Nath tells us have received some Ecomes to life with people gath- nately there is no stage for showcas- year, Nath tells us that they are planning that Bandraites who have settled abroad surprising insights ering together to celebrate the culture to change the food festival by bringing plan their vacation around this time of from journalists who and the community of the suburb. The during the festival.” in chefs to interact with the public. the year just so they can be a part of the are currently working Enquirer talks to Patricia Nath, conve- The preparations begin as early as Celebrate Bandra is a community festival. Thus they are actually showing nor and Trustee of Celebrate Bandra, January. Backed by Fountainhead En- festival. The true essence lies in the their Affection towards Bandra and its with different news- to discover what we can expect at the tertainment Pvt Ltd and The Times Of hearts of all the volunteers who, out melting pot of communities. papers, magazines, festival this year that is scheduled to India as its sponsor, the excitement of their busy professional lives make For an event to be conducted on television channels be held from November 12 to 20. amongst the Bandraites is growing time to organize the festival. Accord- such a massive scale, a helping hand and online portals. For the past several years, the fes- larger by the day. Right from Carter ing to Nath, “Bandraites spearhead for even a short time is extremely To know more, take tival has always had a theme, but not Road promenade, to the Bandra Fort, the festival. The festival is for, of and this year. “We are trying to make the the streets of Bandra come alive in by the people of Bandra. It’s kind of deployed at various locations, the se- a glance at pages 4 festival as varied as possible, so we November. The slight chill in the air our way of paying back to the com- curity has to be on point. Their very and 5. have decided not to have a theme this packed with musical performances by munity”. It doesn’t matter if year,” says Patricia Nath. The event local artists is just the kind of a night A percentage of the revenue is put is controlled and well managed. you are a Bong or a Gujarati as long as bunch of mint leaves for Rs.10 from you are in Mumbai. Economics at Ground Zero one stall but another stall gave me two The students of SPICE Devika Soni PC: The Hindu big bunches of fresh mint leaves for have captured the the same price,” a buyer said. essence of Kolkata’s couple was seen carrying bags IndraniKrishiSeva Kendra is a ‘Durga Pujo’ and Guja- A full of vegetables bigger than farmers’ organisation that connects them, when they were asked what the farmers from Pune to Mumbai. “Our rat’s ‘Dandiya Raas’ in occasion was, they said, “Nothing! goods are 10-20% cheaper than retail our very own city! It’s all just so cheap! We got three rates,” said Jaisingh, a farmer. Check out page 8 for drumsticks for Rs.10 when my retail Ketan Mehta is a third generation our take on the cur- vendor sells one for the same price!” owner of Priti International, a compa- It has been almost two months ny that supplies hotel and restaurant rently trending Hijab - kitchen equipment. “These farmers fad; the changing role er market was opened at the Vidhan need cold storage services and better from oppression to Bhavan at Nariman Point. Every Sun- logistical facilities. My company will women empower- day morning from 8am to noon, about be offering them space and equipment ment. In our second 30 farmers from villages around Pune that will help them clean and store and Nasik come to sell fresh farm etables that are not demanded are sold their produce.” When asked why he issue we bring to you produce. The cabinet passed a law in What started off as an initiative by us at cheaper rates. It’s the basic is interested in helping the farmers he a glimpse of Mumbai’s August allowing farmers to sell their taken by the government to bridge the demand-supply principle,” said Madhu- said, “It is good business.” street fashion, exotic produce without going through the gap between farmers and consumers kar, an organiser of the market. He went Amidst the swirl of general popu- international cuisines Agricultural Produce Market Com- has now become a place where you on to say that a committee comprising lace crowding the stalls to buy vege- and more. mittee (APMC). can see market forces at work. of various farmers is being appointed tables so fresh they still have mud on This market was started in response The farmer-producer market works to set prices for all their commodities. them, you can see pure economics in And before we forget, to the increasing number of farmer on all the basic textbooks principles “We are only charging for transport - let us wish you a Hap- suicides in Maharashtra. Farmers took of economics that eventually vanish cost, manpower, storage and minimal mation and the farmers vouch for their py Diwali and a great loans at the beginning of the agricul- when a lot of parties get involved. good quality produce. The market has New Year. tural season hoping to pay it off when By eliminating all the middle parties, tempos which can carry about 2000 ki- healthy competition and a lot of vari- their goods were sold. After their prices in this market are decided on los of produce but they only bring 800 ety for the consumers to choose from. fruits and vegetables were harvested simple demand-supply basis. kilos since the market is small. While perfect markets are a myth - Ruella Fernandes the middlemen collected the produce “If there are some vegetables which All the 30 stalls set up in the for economists, this farmer-producer Avani Ghangurde at a minimal price and sold them to are more in demand we try to charge Vidhan Sabha parking lot maintain market that will soon be set up across buyers in big cities at exorbitant rates, a little higher to cover our costs. Veg- very healthy competition which ben- the city, comes very close to it. FESTIVITIES October 2016 2

Ruby Dutta Debjani Ghosh Sanchari Banerjee A Mumbai-vs-Kolkata he hearts of the Bengalis are Twhen they talk about Dur- story at Durga Puja ga Puja, the biggest festival of the Bengalis. It is considered the largest socio-religious cultural event in the eastern part of India. The festival is largely celebrated in Kolkata and in parts of Mumbai, Ahmedabad and New Delhi. The spirit with which Kolkata cele- brates the festival is unrivalled by any other state in this country. If you visit Kolkata during Durga Puja, you can feel the truest essence of the City of means of entertainment. Presently, Joy. On the other hand, Durga Puja in we have Dhunuchi Naach as the only Mumbai, organized by Bengalis who means of entertainment.” He also have either been staying here for a mentioned that both the Bengalis and long time, or have been born here, is the non-Bengalis gather together to a rather localized affair in which the organise Durga Puja, and that adds to city does not seem to take part.. the celebration. Every year Kolkata comes up with “I came to Mumbai in July to pur- its innovative themes of idol making sue my Diploma in Public Relations. All photos: Ruby Datta and pandals. Mumbai also goes hand in hand when it comes to Durga Puja Kolkata and I do not like it here. Peo- celebration. However, the style and ple here are more interested to have a theme of the celebration in Mumbai glance of celebrities rather than pan- greatly differs from that of Kolkata. dal hopping. If you want to celebrate Subhankar Chakrabort (28) has been Durga Puja, Kolkata is the best place staying in Mumbai for the past 2 years much bigger than that of the Ashtami ately want to celebrate Durga Puja which celebrated its 81stt year this to be,” said Priyadarshini Mazumdar and he says he has realized that the es- celebration. The Pandal is overcrowd- in Kolkata. The celebration here is time at Shivaji Park, there is, howev- (21), a student at St. Pauls Institute of sence of Durga Puja in Mumbai is not ed with over 1 lakh visitors per day. We very different from that of Kolkata. er, both fervor and a sense of enjoy- Communication Education in Bandra. as same as Kolkata. It is more com- have various means of entertainment Durga Puja in my hometown is based ment. The treasurer of the organizing The celebration in Mumbai is not mercialised here and the focus is on the for the visitors and this is the major on themes, which is missing in Mum- committee, Abhijit Chatterjee, said, as fulsome and fascinating as Kolk- promotion rather than decoration. attraction of the Lokhandwala Durgot- bai. Here, Navratri is celebrated on a “Since Shivaji Park has been declared ata. It soothes the Bongs in Mumbai One of the popular Durga Pandals sav,” said Abhijeet Bhattacharyya. large-scale that attracts more visitors a silent zone, we have faced quite a and gives them the feeling of being at in Mumbai is Lokhandwala Durgotsav, Dwaipayan Ganguly, an employee than Durga Puja,” he said. lot of problems to organise this Puja. home. However, you get the feeling which is headed by the famous Bolly- of Kotak Mahindra Bank, is rather At the Bengal Club Sarvajanik The scenario was very different 20 that if they get a chance to visit Kolk- wood singer, Abhijeet Bhattacharyya. wistful. “I have been staying here Durgotsav, the second old- years ago when we had dance dra- ata next year during Durga Puja, they “The Dashami Celebration here is since the last two years but, I desper- est Durga Puja in Mumbai mas and musical performances as are never going to miss it.

Nisha Shah wait for her arrival. It starts raining her. Close to 50% of the favourite spot Ghatkopar to per- often perform in Gujarat, she says, Devika Soni and coincidentally, that is when she audience comes just to hear form in Borivali, which is also “It’s nothing like that. I’d love to per- arrives on the stage. People erupt in her sing. You can see this known as mini-Gujarat for its form if I get the opportunity.” t’s almost time. The crowd is cheer- a roar as the Dandiya Queen steps on crowd standing right near the large Gujarati population. People often wonder what Falguni Iing, restless. The compere has been the stage, singing ‘Pari hoon main.’ stage, recording videos and But this is not the only Pathak does all year except during entertaining them but they are intently Falguni Pathak has been perform- just reveling in her music. time. Back in 2010, Fal- Navratri, because she barely makes any ing during Navratri for more than two Perhaps her craziest fan this guni headed to her home public appearances. When we mention decades now and yet her popularity year was a Londoner, who turf, Gujarat. That was that it is often jokingly said that she refuses to die. Take for instance came all the way just to watch rakes in the moolah during these nine the fact that this year despite the her perform. Jabra fan, eh? celebrated Navratri days and sits at home all year round, rain, around nearly 15,000 without Pathak. When Falguni is quick to reply, “People people had come only for Falguni has ditched her asked why she doesn’t think I work only during Navratri and If it’s Falguni, it must be Navratri

do nothing the whole year, but I do shows in India as well as abroad. Even this year, I’m performing in Australia in November.” She sure rakes in the moolah alright, but she isn’t the one to sit idle. When the festival begins, she starts practicing 4 hours before the event starts every day. “People think I If one looks closely at Pathak, one is bound to notice that all through these work only during years, she has not changed a bit. Slight- Navratri and do ly stout, short, in a jacket, smart trou- sers, and a pendant around her neck, nothing the whole she has looked the same for so long that year, but I do it’s really hard to tell how old she could

shows in India as icon, with short hair. She is what she well as abroad.” is and has never changed herself; that’s one reason why everyone loves her. All Photos: PR Akhund FESTIVITIES October 2016 3 A pop-up lunch hosted by All Photos: Sr Dorothy Kayina tribals Next Tribal Lunch will be: Chetna Asai Anmol Alphonso On: 28th October from 11.30am to ast Saturday, and the one be- 5pm. Lfore that, saw us venturing out to Aarey colony in Goregaon East, etarian and non-vegetarian meal feast Alongside the lunch site, there was Cost: Rs 325 for for a unique experience. At the cost were cooked in smokeless chulas - adults, Rs 275 for of an inexpensive meal in Mumbai, provided by WWH. ing organic fresh vegetables grown people can spend a whole day learn- The dishes included Rice and Dal, in the farm, bags made out of sarees, kids below 12 years ing about and enjoying the cuisine of Ragi bhakris, mixed vegetable bhaji, green chilli thetcha, the spicy chutney Venue: Khambacha a small tribe that have been living in chicken curry, fresh Bombil fry, Javla without which most Maharashtrian Pada: Mumbai, this protected forest for as far back as (dried shrimp), salad cooked in a meals are incomplete, and to top it 300 years. semi dry gravy and bhareli vaangi off, Bombil chutney. Aarey Unit 25, ‘Tribal Sit Down Lunch Experi- (stuffed brinjal fry) and the desert We spoke to several visitors about Behind Picnic Spot, ence’ is an event which is organised served was delicious handmade their experience and why they go to Aarey Colony, once in every 15 days for as long as modaks. this event, what we realised was that 24 months by We Will Help Chari- Mumbai. table Foundation. WWH organises Book your tickets on this under ‘Project Swabhiman’which bookmyshow.com enables tribal ladies by giving them the lunch was not by any means the livelihood. only reason they were present there, or call 9820224450 While taking a ‘village walk’ but was also in a sense that they are through Kambhacha pada, one of the contributing to improve lives of the oldest villages in Aarey colony and tribals. the spot where the Tribal lunch was We got to see a live case of that, start ‘Tribal Tadka’, a cooking class being held, we went through paddy as Ruchira one of the visitors had program which would start under the donated the smokeless chulas that guidance of culinary expert and food realized that the ingredients and were used for cooking. stylist Varun Inamdar. vegetables used for cooking were In the coming days there will be a So next time on a weekend when plucked from there. ton of new exciting initiatives follow- you’re hungry and want to taste On arriving to the picnic spot, the ing Tribal Lunch. Casandra Nazareth, some distinct Tribal cuisine, look no aroma of cooked food was noticeable project manager of WWH had said more as good food is just around the all around. Scrumptiously spicy veg- that by November they are going to corner.

TAKING A STROLL AROUND KAMBHACHA PADA

Chetna Asai arrived at Kambhacha Pada village the place with a group of other travel- Anmol Alphonso with a strong pillar), one of the ing enthusiast by Yogendra, the tour oldest Adivasi pada in Aarey Colony, guide who himself resides in Aarey. walk can change your perception Goregaon. The place had a particular quiet feel Aabout a place, this is what we We had gone for the ‘Tribal Lunch’ have been hearing all the while, but organised by We Will Help (WWH), bushes and a delicate steady breeze eventually experienced this when we but before that we were taken around blowing around. Its hard to imagine that such a place exists in Mumbai. All Photos: Sr Dorothy Kayina As we strolled around, our guide told us that the natives have inhabited the place for close to three centuries. We noticed that the tribal houses had Warli paintings inscribed on their walls and were built of mud, cow part wearing short pants and t shirts. these handmade houses were about As we went in the interiors of the Karvi and blossoms once in 8 years!” 15 years old! village, we saw a number of temples. he said. That was indeed a splendid The attire of the tribal villager was The one that stood out was a temple moment as we felt that we had just not that stereotypical as would be by named Gaondeva. This temple is witnessed a rare event. and large imagined. The people had about 60 to 70 years old and the god As the walk came to a close and we that’s worshiped is a tribal god. reached KambhachaPada our mind a blend of modern apparel. Ladies On our way back to the picnic spot, was alluring us to backtrack for were dressed up in Tribal handmade one of the visitor saw a number of vi- another walk, however the miserable saries and children were for the most part is our legs had surrendered. FESTIVITIES October 2016 5

“I work on assignments related to crime in the ore than 1,400 journalists have been killed in the line of “I have had differences of opinions with politicians “Yes, I have been threatened and attacked in “I have not been attacked but, I duty over the past ten years all over the world, according “I was never attacked during my course of work. Once, Anurag and Labour leaders. However, never felt the threat 2009. I had written an article in which expos- have been threatened mainly by different parts of the country and cover events. M Kashyap warned me when I had questioned him about the words of physical harm. Journalists losing their lives are ing the builder, ventilation of the bills, the people who have said if you write Safety is a concern in reporting because you to the UK-based International News Safety Institute. The worst ‘Over Sex and under fuck’ used in one of his books that was a matter of concern. I hope that the new laws to builder after giving the probation of the rede- this we will this to you and don’t - part is only one in ten cases committed against the media launched. It had offended Mr. Kashyap which made him warned be introduced (as promised by the government) velopment building to the tender. He suddenly write this but, long ago when I ample, when I was in Jalgaon covering me ‘I will ban you from attending any further Press Conferenc- will address the issue.The public may lose faith was a reporter. Now after being a resignation of Ex-Minister Eknath Khadse, professionals has made its way to a conviction. November 2 es.’ He slammed the book and walked away and the vid- in an individual journalist or publication, but lakh. This was distributed among the tenants. commentator in have not.” his supporters had come on the road. We has been chosen as the ‘International Day to End Impunity for eo went viral on Youtube. According to me, jour- as a whole, the profession continues to enjoy Later, as I started investigating on the issue, I “I get a lot of abuse on twitter were pushed and told to leave because peo- Crimes against Journalists’ as this day marks the assassination nalists are not easily attacked as many people high respect at the public level. The faith factor received threatening calls from Chhota Rajan’s and I have a lot of people saying ple blamed Khadse’s resignation on media know how powerful media has become of late. remains.” gang. They kept a chopper on my stomach and that if you say this we are going trial. Risks are less in city reporting it is of two French journalists in Mali in 2013. This day condemns Anyone would think twice before attacking a asked me to ‘stop writing such articles’.Jour- to attack you. There have been di- only when you go out of your residence and allv violence and brutal attacks against journalists and media journalist as the entire media agency stands – Deepak Sahijwala, nalists are people who travel alone without rect threats but if you block them professionals all over the world. The SPICE Enquirer team by our sides to support us.” Editor, India Pages any security. He is a common person but an then the threats disappear. I see threats we should also remember that our job important weapon in the society, thus he be- them as empty threats.” is to report and not be activist. While covering has interviewed a few journalists working in Mumbai and – Sonup Sahadevan, comes an easy target. They are the centre and “What journalist write has an crimes and accidents you should be objective. elsewhere to get an idea of what they think. Senior Editor at The Indian Express. impact that is the one thing, the People will threaten you if they feel threatened second thing is journalist have from you. I support UN’s resolution condemns “Talking about feeling unsafe, I have never felt so at work- journalists are a weapon and if we give them all attacks and violence against journalists and place but for sure when I am out doing stories. I used to tell stronger side, they can attack them. We have who write and appear on TV are media workers. Committee for the Protection of my seniors before leaving so that I have a back up because the power to create opinion and make peo- seen as people whose views don’t Journalists (CPJ) should be created for a safer whenever you go out; you meet unknown people and come ple think. To protect ourselves we have to be match the prevailing views and environment for across people who you should not have come across. It is smart, alert and keep strong presence of mind. this has happened only in the last journalists.” WHEN THE always good to have people with you, a photographer or a Always keep a single person you trust by your two years. I appear on Television camera person. There is always this one set of people who a lot and if i say something then –Mustafa Shaikh, will like you and will like you to do a story because it will single person for your safety.” they say why is he saying this?” Correspondent, India Today and AajTak. “Journalists are easily bring out the truth. There is another set of people who will “Journalist are attacked be- attacked because peo- WATCHDOG IS threaten us if we plan to do a story. When – Neel Shah, ple are not good with you are out doing a story and you get Crime Reporter, Mumbai Mirror. writing has an impact on society. us in the current scenario. into trouble all you can do is call your If your neighbour says something Journalists are not totally senior, who is like 10 stations away.” it is only going to remain between “Well to start, I have not been threatened as of protected because it is not possi- THREATENED you and your neighbour but, if a yet. All journalists are likely to be threatened, ble for any organisation to send a bouncer with us. We – Diksha Punjabi, journalist says something then a but the ones who are more prone to threats are have to protect ourselves. I was doing a story on dan- PR Executive, Former Journalist lot of people read it.” the journalists who cover crime beat, due to their gerous buildings in Mumbai. We were shooting about (Intern) with Mid Day. “There is no way journalist can stream. There is seldom any security provided to 472 buildings that were in dangerous condition. The be provided security as there are journalists when they are covering a news story. thousands of journalist and the Crime is a serious and an important issue, the protesting against it surrounded me. My cameraperson police cannot go with each one journalists uncovering these aspects are not pro- and crewmembers were taken to a place. I immediate- of them but, if a journalist are at- vided protection hence we see the consequences. ly called Dhananjay Kulkarni, the then spokesperson tacked in the course of their work The fear of the truth being revealed or a revenge of Mumbai Police. The police tracked her phone and factor is what actually leads to journalists being reached the spot within few minutes and they were “As a journalist, I had been be some special attention given to attacked. According to me, the most ideal thing rescued. Journalists are easily attacked these days warned and threatened on few it, because journalist are a very would be if there are laws made to protect jour- because it is agenda driven. To protect ourselves, we important function of our demo- nalists and also providing security to them.” have to keep good contacts so that they know us by when I reported in the Times of cratic society.” our name or by the name of our organisation.” India about the usage of drugs –Ranjana by the students in Kalina Uni- - Siddharth Bhatia, Konatt, –Santia Gora, versity ground in 1987-88. If jour- Founding editor of The Wire, DNA. Journalist at NDTV, New Delhi. nalists are careless, they become easy former editor of DNA targets. They must be careful enough to avoid potentially dangerous situations. Journalists are attacked more easily because Media has grown manifold in the last two dec- ades. In order to protect ourselves, it is important to meet our sources in safe places and not in lonely spots. Inform Every journalist’s worst nightmare: James Foley was an American journalist and video the police if you can sense danger.” reporter. On November 22, 2012, he was abducted by the ISIS and beheaded in August “I have never been 2014. – Ashley D’Mello, attacked in the course of Former Crime Reporter, TOI. work. However, I know that journalists in the hin- “I have been threatened once when our team was doing an ex- “Yes, actress Kareena Kapoor did once tell a colleague, ‘I will break your Editor’s legs,’ because she did terland of India are more not approve of a photo of hers we used on the cover of Filmfare, but it was clearly no more than a colourful vulnerable to attacks and an undercover operation to expose the easy availability of drugs phrase. In fact, she looked rather sheepish when I reminded her of it some months later. threats as law and order is back then in the city. Journalists are bumped off all over the world. It was for pretty much the same reason that actor Salman Khan once called me late at night. ‘I’m Salman, “During my time as a journalist, I never felt threatened. In fact, in those not as robust here as it is in “In the life of They are not safe and it is not possible to provide safety to them. We have to deal in he announced.’ Not quite expecting a call from him, I replied, ‘Salman who?’ Once we had established who days, being a journalist was something that shielded you from such threats. the urban sectors. Journal- every journal- our own way.” he was, he threatened me with legal consequences because we had published a photograph of him and Katri- I have written on all issues- crime, politics, civic issues, tribal issues, hu- ists are attacked because ist, there have na Kaif, then rumoured (but not acknowledged) to be his girlfriend. He alleged we had obtained the picture man rights, environment, defence and even business. I have covered riots, real journalism challenges been numer- – Vikram Sawant, through illegal means (we certainly had not) and threatened to sue us. I told him I would speak to powerful establishments ous instances Former Reporter, Mid Day. the Times of India’s legal team and that was the end of that. journalists visited some of the Indian army posts in Kashmir. But I never and power is hostile to when the jour- - felt threatened. challenges. Media is a nalist has been little to protect you except powerful establishment threatened for the your own survival instinct. Crime reporter J Dey, for instance, was shot down on the of a larger problem in the society. Our polity is more criminalised, our police in itself and yet it fails to coverage of a particu- streets of Mumbai. I knew him, knew how exceedingly careful he was. However, none and executive more corrupt and even the media has become corrupt, either at the protect its kin.” lar story. The best thing to do at that “I was attacked once in 2007 when I was working with the Times of India in Hyder- of it helped.” level of an individual journalist or at an institutional level with advent of paid news.” moment is to never deal with those abad. The TOI team was doing a series of interviews with the Tollywood actresses of – Allan D’Souza, confronting on one’s own because – Shashi Baliga, – Raju Kane, Correspondent at Impact that would be unwise. Instead, let the of its history. Osmania happened to be a hotbed for the local Naxal movement, and, as Independent Journalist. Former Journalist, TOI, Business India and Business Standard. Magazine. we would see later during the Telangana agitations, a lot of violence and riots would police complaints etc. The law does protect journalist but with physical assault, for apparently degrading the values of the University by when someone is hell bent on caus- shooting with an actress in Western clothes. ing injury then vigilance helps better “Journalists are easily attacked because they are regular citizens; not pol- “It happens a lot of time that journalists are than waiting for the law to take its iticians or businesspersons with security cover. In other words, journalists attacked but then we have to properly course. Intolerance to criticism is the “I did not face a direct threat as of now. Even during 26/11 we were hardly any distance from the Taj Mahal Palace, and we wer- check the situation and then decide primary reason why journalist are be- safety. It is not that the attacks on journalists have been recent, but has en’t given any bullet proof vests. We were not provided with any. Journalist at any point of time in the history of journalism has whose fault is it exactly.Journalists ing attacked today. The slow run to been going on since ages. The reason for it being in the limelight now faced certain threats especially depending on the beat that you are working in. Earlier, if a journalist faced threats, the conversation should have the knowledge of the justice gives hooligans the courage to is that there have always been elements in society who want crimes/ was mostly restricted to the journalist, editor and the person who was making the threat or maybe the police was involved. Howev- situation and understand how to play do so. Journalists can only make sure wrong-doings hidden. Therefore, globally there are committees to pro- er, today I would take to social media if I would face a threat because I would want a larger number of people to know about it.It is with the questions or how to handle a that their writing is supported with tect journalists and they must be approached.” very important to protect our sources and we should maintain a complete bond of trust with our editor.” particular story in what angle.” the required evidences.” – Sarit Ray, –Mahrukh Inayet, – Laaaghavi Sawant, – Haima Deshpande, Associate Editor, HT 48 hrs. Former Editor-at-large, TV Today Network Ltd. Anchor/Producer, TV9 Marathi. Senior Editor of Open Magazine. ISSUES October 2016 6

Devika Soni years and I think it is more harmful Alaine Rebello than smoking.” Kriselle Fonseca Hookah is indeed more and despite its acknowledged ill-ef-

might have petered out in com- harmful than cigarettes! hookah, especially blueberry mint Tparison with its popularity ten PC: EmpowHER.com and watermelon mint.” Sonawala years ago, but the habit still enthuses ical hookah session is about 90,000 says, “Hookah is a social addiction.” large numbers of young people who millilitres, compared with 500 to 600 Most people start smoking hook- millilitres inhaled when smoking a ah under peer pressure and prefer of warnings that hookah is addictive, cigarette. it in a social setting over something according to research conducted by However, try convincing the hordes they would indulge in by themselves. the Pune-based Chest Research Foun- Lionel Andrade, 32, says, “I smoke dation recently. these places, that this is bad. At the height of the craze and just Aayushi Mehta, 21, who frequently makes me light headed.” before the Brihanmumbai Municipal goes out with her friends to pull hook- The hookah damages the lungs Corporation (BMC) issued a ban ah, says, “I have been doing it for 7 more than a cigarette because it in- on hookah parlours citing harmful years and I don’t think it is an addic- volves ingesting large amounts of effects, there were around 400 tion, nor is it harmful.” Her opinion smoke in a shorter span of time. It such establishments in the is echoed by Kanchi Shah, 28, who can cause wheezing, meningitis and city, most of them doing has been doing hookah for 8 years. bronchitis. However, in spite of the roaring business. The partially correct, the American Journal of Respiratory “I don’t smoke cigarettes but warnings of medical science and ban effectively shut all for today, there and Critical Care Medicine in Sep- in my opinion they are more attempts to ban the practice, of them down, due to are perhaps just 50 tember 2016, reveals that inhaled tar harmful than the hookah,” hookah still holds an attraction anomalies in the rules to 60 such places and carbon monoxide (CO) contents she declares. for thousands of youths who and regulations applied to in Mumbai. In late are higher in water-pipe smoking than Not that all youngsters can afford the prices. the issue. 2015, the subject was in cigarettes. The blood carboxy hae- believe this. Preeti Mehra, Perhaps that is a plus point. In December 2014, acting once again being debated moglobin levels increase by around 4 21, thinks that the hookah For the truth is that only 0.4% - when Mayor Snehal Ambed- times after a mere 5-minute session of is more harmful than cig- of the youth of urban India teur Suneet Chadha against the ban, kar actually inaugurated a lounge in hookah smoking. arettes. Harsh Sonawala, smoke hookah. In the rural are- the Supreme Court set it aside and Dockyard that houses a hookah par- In a 60-minute hookah session, 33, co-founder @indias- - hookah parlours opened again. But lour. smokers are exposed to over 200 omeday.com, shares a er, with 2.6% of the youth the damage was done, and Chadha Research conducted by Dr. Sun- times the volume of smoke inhaled similar view. He says, in the rural area smoking prophesied that perhaps only 25 to deep Salvi, Director of the Chest Re- - “I have been pulling hookah directly. No shee- 30 parlours would reopen. He was search Foundation, and published by ume of smoke inhaled during a typ- hookah for about 15 sha for them!

Preksha Bothra Ruella Fernandes PC: The city Flix Hon Sunday, 09 November 2014, Equal Streets an initiative by EM- BARQ India (the sustainable urban mobility initiative of WRI India) with the help of MCGM and Mumbai

Times of India Group has garnered a positive response from the masses with an average of 15000 participants. In a chat with Mr. Binoy Mascar- enhas, Manager – Urban Trans- port and Road Safety at WRI India Sustain- A November comeback able Cities, he talks about the inception of this for Equal Streets initiative, the problems faced and the principles of treat people equally, if there are more come from distant places to attend the Yes, there were several complaints On the whole, Equal Streets as an Equal Streets. pedestrians on the road then assign campaign. So for now, it is decided - initiative has garnered a positive re- more space for them. that it will be hosted in different loca- ly, but then eventually the public got sponse from the public. It has also How did you come up with the idea tions. Last time it was Powai and this used to the concept and we had al- addressed issues like road safe- of ‘Equal Streets’? Equal streets has been a big hit time maybe Juhu initially and then ty, healthy lifestyle, urban green While we have innovated the concept drawing an average of around shifting to Bandra or some other area. cover, walking and cycling. This in Mumbai and given it its own name, 15,000 citizens from different parts - time around will Equal Streets be we cannot take credit for the idea. of Mumbai to Bandra each Sunday, What about residents of Linking sessment which is appreciated but the talking about “Death by Pothole? The idea of having an open streets to participate in its various activi- Road who claim that Equal Streets is Mumbai police as it has minimal im- hDeath by pothole is an alarming is- program originated in Columbia, it ties, and people are eagerly looking nothing but an imposition and a nui- pact on them because of Equal Streets. sue but if you see the statistics 600- was called Seclovia and the objec- forward to the next edition. Have sance? Plus there were reports that 650 people die every year in Mumbai. tive was similar to our objective i.e. done and a detail study is conduct- 60% of them are pedestrian and the to get people out on the streets, to We are intending to start very soon. other 25% of them are motor cyclists. mobilise a platform of committed We have been talking to police com- about having to turn up in large These groups are not so affected by people who can then tart campaign- missioner regarding the same issue. numbers to police the area because pothole issue. The main problem ing for better and safe roads and It will probably start in November each department grants permission, faced today is road safety and lack of better infrastructure for pedestrians. with perhaps new model, where it issues regarding parking, since the inputs are taken and the last decision any basic infrastructure such as cross- The underlying message of Equal will be conducted on rotating basis, 6 km long stretch of space on Link- remains with the police. Once the Streets is equal allocation of road maybe Sundays in one particular area ing Road, S.V. road and a section of police approves things fall in place. space. So right now if we see how the of Mumbai and then it will move to We are trying to make plans which issue is making basic footpaths and road space is allocated, around 90% another area and so on. As per the re-routed. We want to know whether has less reliance on police because safe junctions for pedestrians. Pothole of the roads are allocated to motorists - these have been addressed and what it takes a lot of effort and time on is a secondary and tertiary issue when and a little bit of space is reserved for ple wanted it to be conducted in their measures have been undertaken this their part as well. So this something dealing with other things of much footpaths. So what we are saying is neighbourhood places as they have to time to avoid these complaints? that we are working on this time. more importance. FOOD & FASHION October 2016 7 All Pictures: Alisha P atkar

JUNK one. Riya Seth, a 20 something fash- The word junk is more than just ion enthusiast says, “I have tremen- junk. When it comes to jewellery it dous love for fashion. Colours attract has become more consumer-friend- OVER me, and everything I have should be ly. The sellers on the streets say that trendy. When it comes to accesso- they buy it from wholesalers in bulk ries, I prefer Causeway, Hill so it’s reasonable for them Road, Lokhandwala any to sell it at cheaper pric- BRANDS... day for junk jewellery. es. At times, they sell They have lots of op- these jewellery for tions available. I can Rs.1000 to Rs.1500 WHY NOT ? buy all of them at which sounds too very affordable pric- much when it comes es.” Now, no more to street. “It is still Rinku Jain Now for a moment let’s take our eyes does one buy jewel- cheap. They would be Alisha Patkar off the roads and onto the footpaths. lery for its aesthetic much more expensive This is where shopping comes into appeal. It has to enhance in stores and people pre- n Mumbai, these days, all of us like the picture, beyond malls and branded their ‘cool look’. Some col- fer buying it from us instead,” Ito explore new places, new restau- stores. Shopping is fun, but its all the lege girls say that they don’t know says Ravindra Dhule, a seller on Hill rants, upcoming brands and new more fun when it doesn’t burn a hole where to go exactly in malls and it be- Road. hotspots to hang out. Life in Mumbai in your pocket! comes much easier to shop for silver Walking on the streets, we came is always changing. You feel the need You name it; you get it. Cool, huge junk jewellery on the streets. across a girl. She looked fascinat- to be constantly on your toes to ac- metallic pendants, funky silver neck- However, everything isn’t hunky ed with junk jewellery. When asked quaint yourself with the latest trends, pieces, colourful earrings, chunky about it, she showed us her phone so that you don’t feel left out. The cool bracelets, rings, chokers, anklets. times, it just rusts and one can’t use wallpaper which read “life is too short streets are so full of life that you can’t You get everything. Roadside jewel- it for a longer time. However, the 44 to wear boring jewellery”. She further just take your eyes off them. lery showcases all the seasonal and year old woman, Rena says, so what if added, “Affordable, cool, and trendy - fashion trends. it doesn’t last longer? They are cheap is all that I need.” Junk jewellery on Recently, junk has grabbed a lot of and I can always keep these aside or the streets has become like vitamins to - love. From college students to middle dump them and buy whatever is trend- fashion. Street shopping is like gam- ical metropolitan city like Mumbai. aged women, it’s preferred by every- ing next.” bling. You either win it or lose it.

Kriselle Fonseca Ruella Fernandes MUMBAI’S SWEETEST AND BEST All Photos: Zomato one are the days when dessert The dish is topped with chocolate Gmeant the basic caramel custard or a chocolate pastry. Today, we center. The intensity of the chocolate have a variety of options to choose is completely divine is a must try for from. What’s more you say? is the all the hardcore chocoholics out there evolution that we are no longer and can leave one craving for more. happy with mere satisfaction of the palette. We now look for visual CHURRO SUNDAE AT appeals to lure us to our desserts. CHOCOLATERIA SAN CHURRO Some of them are more like pieces of The Churro Sundae at Chocolateria art rather than something palatable! San Churro is a must try. A desert Here’s a look at some of the best comprising of custard, ice-cream, desserts in the city to look out for: topped with layers of melted choco- late goodness and a generous dollop LUCIE AT LE 15 of whipped cream and churro sticks, The signature dish served at this San Churros pride themselves on CHOCOLATE MOUSSE BAR AT this heavenly dish. The delightfully THE ROLLING PIN tasty Churro Sundae is a hot favorite This isn’t any ordinary chocolate and chocolate. It is served warm 100% CHOCOLAT AT LA FOLIE among their customers. mousse! The Cadbury moulded Absolutely true to its name, the chocolate mousse bar, sprinkled with in your mouth! The perfect blend 100% Chocolat is indeed a layer of cocoa powder is a sight to of two bold and strong ingredients, decked up head-to-toe behold and a treat to the taste buds. chocolate and salted caramel which in chocolate and surely More than being a signature dish, the when considered, you ponder they does not disappoint. It chocolate mousse bar is a standout are probably not going to blend. But looks petite and humble, amongst the most it it is this uniqueness that makes the and is the tiniest ever looked for dishes at dish stand out. chocolate mousse on a The Rolling Pin chocolate praline base. and sells like hot cakes. CULTURE October 2016 8 From the Playground to the Clinic Michele Gomes ics that disturbs the mental health of projected by the society and broken Evelyn Bombley. the child. Therapy is a solution but it families are responsible for wrecking doesn’t always work. the mental health of the present ith an increase in inhi- “The cases are increasing day by generation. bition and impulsivity day. We have children as young as 3-4 Though now people are more Wamong children, cases years old coming in for help. There aware about the learning disabilities, of childhood psychiatric disorder are times where it’s not the just child there are still many cases where par- have been on the rise. It haws been who needs help but the parents too. ents are in denial and consider going said that the problem of psychiatric The parents are under stress and don’t to a therapist/ psychiatrist or disorders in children is maximum know what’s going on.” she said. a mental health profes- in developing countries like India. Junk food, exam pres- sional a taboo. Research from the Indian Council sure, peer pressure, easy of Medical Research reported that availability of drugs 12% children between 4 to 16 years and alcohol, body suffered from psychiatric disorders image issues in India. As per WHO, an estimated of 2.6 million people, aged 10 to 24 years one’s everyday functioning. Reasons Very often children supress their die each year and much greater may be parental pressure, academics feelings and are not able to commu- number suffer from illness behaviour or lack of attention. nicate with their parents and teachers which hinder their ability to grow “There have been several cases or any adult. However, parents do and achieve their optimum potential. of degradation of mental health in not realise how they contribute to WHO (2000) also stated that 20% of children. In most of the cases the this problem. At times they are going children and adolescents suffer from children are not able to communicate through a lot of stress and that pass- a disabling mental illness worldwide what they are feeling, what they are es on to the child. Since children and suicide is the third leading cause going through, so they supress their are very sensitive, there are of death among adolescents. A study feelings and become very defensive. many aspects and dynam- showed that suicide rates quadrupled When they reach a point where they from 1950-2005 for children below are not able to contain it anymore, 15 years and for teens and youngsters it can either convert into some between the age group of 15 and 25 psychosomatic problems because years, they doubled. they are not able to handle it mental- With an increase in nutritional ly or physical problems like disorders, consumption of alcohol, migraines and ulcers.” says a tobacco and other substances, high therapist from Psychoan- risk sexual behaviour, the children alytical Therapy and and adolescent are victims of de- Research Centre, generating mental health. It includes Mumbai. anxiety issues, suicidal tendencies, withdrawal symptoms, depression etc. Mental health basically involves anything that comes in the way of

Rhea Varghese of empowerment. The piece of cloth, wear the hijab are seen as weak and created a huge mark in the world of which was earlier seen as a mode for voiceless, Raina follows her passion fashion, when Indonesian Muslim de- hen I think of the hijab, a sacred suppressing a woman’s voice, now and joins the FBI, just like her sister. signer Anniesa Hasibuan, showcased Wcloth worn by the women of Is- displays the power of women. These two characters, especially her collection at the recent New York lam, what strikes me is a scene from Wondering how? Check out the Raina, motivate and empower the Fashion Week. The event featured the movie ‘Sex and The City’, where - thousands of women who wear the four women from the west are blown imated superhero series produced by hijab, and also educate the viewers on matched with colorful silk and velvet away by the sight that unfolds in front Unicorn Black in Pakistan. The series how women who wear the hijab are tunics, gowns and kimonos. of them. That being, women of Abu is about a school teacher namely Jiya, normal, just like the others and are not Fashion designers today, are striv- Dhabi having French fries while their ing to cater to the ever increasing face is covered with a burka. “A lift demands of the fashion market. How- for every fry,” is how Carrie Brad- ever, what is unusual is the fact that, shaw, one of the four women, coins it. The Hijab as Female Empowerer this demand is not only from Muslim It is something that they would never community, but also from non-Mus- All Photos : Google have imagined themselves getting ac- lim across the globe. customed to, however for the women of Islam, it is a tradition. seen by many as a guerilla raid; but In the religion of Islam, the hijab with time and further increase in de- represents decency and modesty of mand, it has been proved otherwise. women. Traditionally, this piece of While many see the hijab as beautiful, cloth is symbolic, as one who wears elegant and exuding class, some wear it is recognized as a woman of Islam it in support of Muslim women and and hence not harassed. Since ages, the others wear it simply to be modest. practice of wearing a hijab, is seen by While empowerment through the hi- the outside world as a symbol of op- jab is on the rise, there are still situations pression. For a very long time, in the where women are criticized, tormented Western world, the hijab represent- ed forced silence. Going back to the most, it boils down to one aspect, ‘it is French fries scene in the ‘Sex and The whose alter-ego is the super-heroine It doesn’t end there. Another tele- weak or oppressed. my choice.’ A choice to not be objecti- City’, Carrie says, “The veil across the named ‘Burka Avenger.’ She covers vision series that so far has broken Hijab gained popularity not only - mouth freaks me out. It’s like, they her identity using a burka, while she stereotypes associated with women ical beauty, but to let the world know don’t want to have a voice.” wearing hijabs, is ‘Quantico.’ In the the world of fashion. The cloth which that what matters most, is the person However today, the scenario is a for all. This show sends a clear mes- show, Nimah and Raina are twin sis- created a lot of controversies for inside the hijab, not her external beauty, different. The hijab, which started out sage, of how massive is the potential ters. Raina is conservative in nature hiding the identity of a woman, has but the beauty within her. Hijab to them as a sign of oppression and then as ex- of female empowerment and how and wears the hijab. However, unlike now emerged as a fashion statement is not oppression, it is liberation from otic, has now emerged as a strong sign greatly can it affect today’s generation. the set stereotype, where women who across various platforms. The hijab societal expectations. ENVIRONMENT October 2016 9

Anurag Gawde PC: Anurag Gawde in India. Azeemuddin Sayyed Many NGO’s have been work- ing towards eradicating Child labor. umbai, the city of lights, More child One such NGO is Child in Domestic is considered to be one of Care. It is an organization that works Mthe safest cities of India. for children who are involved in do- It’s true what they say, this city never ‘wrongs’ than mestic work. They focus on 17 states sleeps. It’s perfectly safe for people across India. On being asked about to carry on with their lives even after how the NGO helps these children, Sr. the rest of the world dozes off. But Jeanne Devos, National coordinator not everything in this city is perfect. Child Rights for the National Domestic Workers Mumbai has been experiencing the Movement said, “We have a separate problem of child labour for a long movement called Child Rights Move- time. ment. It brings together children to get In India, the ratio of people liv- coaching classes and directs them to ing below poverty line exceeds the mainstream education.” population of the lower middle class The organization also has transit shelter homes in Patna, Ranchi, and the family, most of the children leave Shillong for children who have been school at a very young age and start working to support their families. There are many other NGOs like, The most common example of Pratham, Children’s India Foundation child labour in Mumbai are the kids and World Vision India that work to- who are forced to beg on the streets. Dharavi, the largest slum in Mumbai, metros, sold and then forced to work decreased by 2.2% every year since wards eradicating this problem. De- The authorities say that they are help- is one such place where this issue can in return for low wages and under lots 2001-2011 as per the census conduct- spite these NGOs working really hard less because if they stop them today be seen vividly. of work pressure. Moreover, under ed by Child Rights and You (CRY). towards, the progress is not up to the the children will come back again af- The saddest part is that most of aged children can also be found work- Most of the children perform haz- mark. Rather than laws and initiatives, ter a couple of days. Apart from beg- these children working in Mumbai are ing as domestic help. ardous tasks and this activity has the each and every responsible citizen ging, a lot of children are employed in - The statistics of child labor in India highest count should look into this matter personally small scale industries on daily wages. dia. These children are brought to the is improving at a static rate. It and put an end to it.

Chetna Asai en which is going to be operational Anmol Alphonso - es about 40-60 kg of wet waste on /west ward (Ban- a daily basis out of which 20 - 40 Hdra) is commonly kg of waste would be converted into referred to as the “queen of suburbs”. Being one of designed and developed by Engineer the suburbs whose resi- Kabir Udeshi. Mr. Anil Dutta, manager at - tial personalities, it has the project was for a good cause always lead the way in and it was a ‘one time investment’ introducing a number of which would help the hotel to cut its initiatives. Recently the BMC expenditure on fuel consumption. had proposed a project to restaurants A special area has been designated to voluntarily set up an organic waste Restaurants in the premises, where the wet waste Is this a day just processing system. would be dumped and the motor would start the chemical process of for show? “rhino digester” for processing wet zero in would be operational for 24 hours and Anmol Alphonso being allotted Rs 1,000 crore. Despite on Waste is said to not be noisy which is ideal Chetna Asai this, several public toilets in Mumbai as the guests would not get disturbed. Imran Ismail are facing water shortage. Pratiksha Karkera Mrs. Bendale, a daily commuter at set up in May this year in the H/ Dombivili said “Forget about proper ovember 19, 2016 will be ob- or clean, there is no water in the toi-

N . Dorothy day has been celebrated since 2001 doesn’t pay attention to our concerns and introduced by World Toilet Or- raised about the cleanliness of the- ganisation to raise awareness about place.” All Photos: S r sanitation. A resolution was passed When asked about the toilets at in July 2013 by the UN General As- Bandra Reclamation near her place, sembly designating November 19 as ‘World Toilet Day’. Two years have Mr. Anil Dutta, passed since Swachh Bharat Mission pay the contract toilet cleaners Rs.20 had been initiated. For World Toilet to clean them. When we have to use manager at Out Day, we decided to inspect various the toilets, we take our own buckets of of The Blue, has water as there is no water in the taps. Mumbai. Because of this, the residents have said that the - built toilets outside their houses.” project was for a culties they face while using public Dr Bindeshwar Pathak, founder of toilets. Swati Kavdam, a slum dwell- ‘Sulabh International’ said that World good cause and Toilet Day was introduced in the re- waste into biogas that can be used for west ward BMC canteen. Assistant “I live in the slums behind and the membrance of former PM Indira it was a ‘one time cooking food. Some restaurants like Municipal Commissioner of H/West toilets here lack proper sanitation Gandhi. He further mentioned that, investment’ which & ward, Mr. A S Khoje said that he had Mumbai has the potential of being in Kitchen and Taj Lands’ End appealed to various restaurants and toilets are not regularly maintained.” par with other cities in terms of san- would help the Hotel have been roped into the plan clubs to join the “Zero Waste Agenda” itation. He said that “Sanitation is a hotel to cut its ex- and are either in the process or have of the BMC. He further added that drinking water and sanitation for religion for us”. So far Sulabh has con- set-up, the Digester in their kitchens. with just an appeal people have come 2015-16 was Rs.6,243.87 crore, with structed and is maintaining over 8000 penditure on fuel forward and taken the initiative to the Swachh Bharat Abhiyaan (Urban) public toilets in India. consumption. set up a rhino digester in their kitch- make H/West ward a zero waste zone. TRENDS October 2016 10 The World on your Plate In Mumbai ith an increasing number All Pics: Zomato customers and consists of two pattice of people being exposed of chicken and lamb topped with fried Wto exotic cuisines by egg and bacon, served with potato wedges and a sauce. hand experiences, the demand for restaurants in the city serving world cuisine has gone up. To cater to these needs, there are quite a few restau- rateurs who are willing to take the risk. Here are few of the restaurants that should be on your list if you feel like ditching your usual Chinese and a very Japanese feel. Kofuku avails Punjabi food and are in the mood for many delicious tastes from The Land trying something new. of the Rising Sun. Perfectly furnished with Japanese décor, there is a sym- Location: Palladium Mall, Lower Chili’s phony of Japanese dishes to please Parel With its origin in the USA, Chili’s your taste buds. Price: Rs. 1600 for two has made its way to India with Signature dish: Sushi platter - Kriselle Fonseca multiple outlets across the city. They Specializing in various sushi like The Fusion Kitchen serve lip-smacking hot and spicy au- salmon, tuna, yellowtail, and prawns Owned by a group of young guys, thentic Mexican delicacies. Though served with soya sauce, wasabi and this hole-in-the-wall restaurant dishes slightly on the higher end, this chain ginger pickle, Kofuku is one of the Signature dish: Tartines out fairly amazing South American of restaurants is famous as a hangout Jamie’s Pizzeria many places in Mumbai offering au- Tartine is an open faced Belgian food in the suburb of Borivali, which place to chill over a pint of beer. So One of TLC’s favourite chef, Jamie Sandwich on organic sourdough is a bit unheard of. The theme of the Oliver has opened a restaurant chain whole wheat bread. They have a wide restaurant is fusion food, which is in India. Jamie’s Pizzeria serves variety of tartines to choose from. a variety of pizzas created One can add different toppings of the globe on one of the walls. by him. With a brightly lit their choice in both vegetarian and Signature dish: Overladen Nachos atmosphere and an open non vegetarian. A twist on the usual nachos, these kitchen, this place looks Location: Bandra Kurla Complex every bit like a traditional Price: Rs. 2000 for two pizzeria. - Alisha Patkar Signature dish: Jamie’s Super Greens thentic Japanese cuisine in Mumbai. British Brewing Company One of their best pizzas, it is gener- Location: Linking Road, Bandra British Brewing Company is an old ously layered with spinach, broccoli, (West) English-style Pub with dark-wood the next time you are in the mood for garlic and mozzarella and is worth Cost: Rs. 2000 for two interiors, specialising in European uniqueMexican and South Ameri- every penny in your pocket. - Sr Dorothy Adaha food. The ambience is cosy with old can cuisine, you know where to go! Location: High Street Phoenix, school music. They have an e-menu Lower Parel Le Pain Quotiden that does not require waiters to come have spinach tortillas instead of corn and chips and Texas cheese poppers Price: Rs. 800 for two LPQ, situated in the posh locality to your table to take your order as tortillas and are loaded with Pico de which are to die for. - Devika Soni of BKC, is known for its authentic you select your dish and it is automat- Gallo, bell peppers, olives, beans, sal- Signature dish: Quesadillas Kofuku European food. Part classy and part ically fed into the system. sa, cheese sauce and cheddar cheese. Location: Hiranandani, Powai industrial, the ambience is that of a Signature dish: The Nasty BBC Location: IC Colony, Borivali (West) Price: Rs. 1800 for two Shoppers Stop in Bandra, you will casual café with a very European feel Burger Price: Rs.950 for two. _ Avani Ghangurde be greeted with Irasshamase, giving to it. This dish is favoured among their - Kriselle Fonseca

Rinku Jain frequent advertising and articles. All Alisha Patkar YOGA BY THE BAY EACH the founders like me love Mumbai and Mickey Mehta is also attracting peo- oga by the Bay is an event con- ple through BTL mediums like social Yducted by the renowned holistic SUNDAY WITH SHAINA NC health guru Mickey Mehta. This par- ticular event witnesses thousands of In winter, have you considered the people gathering to do yoga between inversion factor when setting the 6 to 9am. It starts from Chowpatty and timing? stretches all the way to Nariman Point. Yes, the timings get pushed by an hour This initiative has found more and during winters. more acceptance among the people in Mumbai because it suggests people on What is the time interval between how to lead a healthy life. sessions of yoga by the bay? The SPICE Enquirer team was on There are no intervals. All sessions - happen parallel for 2 hours non-stop. nowned event. An interview with Shaina NC gives more insight onto Have you conducted any kind of the matter and the event in particular. survey of the participants in terms of demographics, especially with re- 16 months since this initiative was gard to youth? started, has yoga by the bay become - a part of the character of Mumbai? ducted but response on social media Yes, with more than 5,000 citizens has been overwhelming.

Mumbai as a health conscious city What is the future of this program? with all age groups embracing better ing ambience and tranquillity. Marine What are the biggest challenges you be really challenging. Will you try to take it to other areas and healthier lifestyles. face when it comes to preparations? in Mumbai? On an average, we get 5000 read- Open and public places have their How did you manage your yoga ses- I believe this should evolve as a way Why only Marine Drive? ers every last Sunday of the month. share of disadvantages. Getting per- sion during the monsoon? of life rather than just stay as another Yoga is an art, which involves physi- The number reached 12,000 on the missions and keeping up with the We maintain a high tempo with ag- program. We will continue doing this cal relaxation and meditation. For it to weather variations, ranging from gressive promotion strategies by TOI until and unless Yoga becomes an in- have an impact, one requires a sooth- 21st 2016. heavy monsoons to searing heat can that helps lure more readers through tegral part of one’s daily routine.