The last of the supermodels. The notorious hard-partying rockstar-dating muse. The size-zero waif who epitomised the often-criticised heroin-chic aesthetic. Kate Moss is all these as well as one of fashion’s most enduring icons. From working with top designers, to dominating major runways across the world to gracing magazine covers, to acing several best-dressed lists — it seems that the fashion world simply can’t get enough of Moss. And if you were a ’90s kid, you would understand just how far-reaching Moss’s impact on popular culture was. That said, it’s understandable now that much of the conversation surrounding the recently released stills from Moss and Freud, Moss’s upcoming biopic, which features Ellie Bamber as Moss against the dizzying backdrop of the noughties fashion scene, has revolved around her memorable fashion moments. It also explores the unlikely relationship between the supermodel and famous British painter, Lucian Freud. “From fashion’s favourite muse in the ’90s to an enduring fashion force, Kate Moss’s bold, boundary-pushing style choices and her effortlessly chic vibe have always set her apart,” says fashion designer Sanjana Bubber. She shares a few simple tips to emulate Moss’s aesthetic. Kate Moss sports skinny jeans; A boho-chic dress in lace; Moss in a streamlined silhouette paired with minimal make-up; Moss’s cropped, fitted leather jacket became a style statement Mix it up “Kate had an incredible way of mixing high-end couture with everyday basics to create looks that were completely her own. Whether wearing a tuxedo-style designer jacket with jeans or a luxe gown with Converse sneakers, she always found a way to balance her look to make it seem effortlessly put-together. At the same time, she experimented with contrasting textures and layered her pieces in interesting ways,” Bubber observes. To build a wardrobe as eclectic as hers, Bubber suggests investing in high-quality basics such as a pair of well-cut jeans, neutral-coloured blouses and a grungy leather jacket. Choose pieces that can be styled in multiple ways. For one-of-a-kind accent pieces, shop vintage or visit your local thrift. Don’t shy away from quirky, kitschy or eccentric pieces, which can add a touch of your own personality to a quintessentially chic ensemble — Moss too was partial to a bold animal print, Union Jack-inspired pieces and oversized statement jewellery. Accentuate your outfit with a maximum of one or two such pieces, to prevent the look from wearing you. Moss’s monochromatic suits channelled ’90s minimalism Less is more Moss was one of the early pioneers of the ’90s minimalistic aesthetic. Monochromatic outfits, simple and streamlined silhouettes, neutral tones and subtle accents including lace trim, dainty embroidery and minimalist heels were hallmarks of her less-is-more mantra. “It’s important to understand the styles that work best for your body and garments you feel comfortable in. Focus on fit and fabric, and don’t shy away from adding an element of sexiness and femininity,” says Bubber. Moss kept her suits casually sexy She points out that even when styling risqué looks such as the controversial ‘naked’ dress, Moss’s barely-there makeup and messy bedhead added a touch of casualness that made it seem as though she wasn’t trying too hard. At the same time, Moss is no stranger to smart accessorising — a grungy pair of boots, a ripped leather jacket, oversized sunglasses or a feathery boa were some ways in which she infused her own rockstar personality into everyday looks. Sanjana Bubber Kate’s lookbook Borrow from the supermodel’s wardrobe with these style essentials: 1. A fitted, cropped leather jacket2. A calf or floor-length satin slip dress3. Grunge-y band tees4. Ballet flats and ankle-high boots5. High-waist skinny jeans
28 January,2025 09:48 AM IST | Mumbai | Anindita PaulThe secret is to not chase the butterflies, but to take care of your garden so that the butterflies come,” wrote Brazilian poet Mário de Miranda Quintana in 1946. Quintana’s widely quoted poem Borboletas (Butterflies) might not have been about the winged insects in the literal sense, but 10 police stations across Navi Mumbai have put his philosophy into practice. The Butterfly Patrol Project undertaken by iNatureWatch Foundation in partnership with the Navi Mumbai Police Department inaugurated butterfly gardens in Kharghar, Nerul, Panvel and Belapur among other spots yesterday. The winged guests are not far behind. (From left) Sanjay Patil, Deputy Commissioner of Police Navi Mumbai; Milind Bharambe, Commissioner of Police, Navi Mumbai; Dr V Shubhalaxmi; Sanjay Yenpure, Joint Commissioner of Police, Navi Mumbai at the inauguration of the butterfly garden in Belapur “When I visited my neighbourhood police station for passport related formalities nearly five years ago, I realised how daunting and intimidating the experience can be, even when you’re there for the right reasons,” chuckles Dr V Shubhalaxmi, founder, iNatureWatch. That’s set to change with the new 500-sq ft gardens, each hosting 300 plants of nectar species like pentas, marigold, zinnia, periwinkle, and host plants like lemon, curry leaves, and bryophyllum sourced from nurseries in Karjat and Kalyan. “We studied the existing flora in the areas to determine which species would fit the soil conditions. Planning was the bigger challenge, execution came naturally,” Shubhalaxmi admits. The butterfly garden at Commissioner of Police, Navi Mumbai Headquarters in Belapur The magic seems to have worked both ways near the Non-Resident Indians (NRI) Complex in Nerul. Vikas Ghodke, Senior Police Inspector, NRI Police Station was witness to one of the last butterfly gardens that reached completion last week in the premises. “When my team walks into the police station now, we have a bright green sight to look forward to. It might not seem like much, but a good start to the day translates to better mood throughout the day,” admits Ghodke, who also rolled his sleeves up to help the team plant the saplings last Friday. “I hail from Solapur in south Maharashtra, where farming and gardening have been a part of the daily routine. It was almost nostalgic when I picked up the shovel to help the team here in the city,” he reveals. The team readies the site for plantation Sanjay Patil, Deputy Commissioner of Police, Navi Mumbai, agrees that the gardens are a win-win in more ways than one. “In addition to boosting our morale, the gardens will also help address the lack of green cover in our city,” he suggests. Shubhalaxmi explains the far-reaching benefits, “Butterflies often migrate in large flutters. Gardens such as these become their pitstops where they stop, take a breather, feed on nectar and mate. With most police stations being located along busy roads for convenience, it will also help curb the air pollution in these areas.” The butterfly garden at NRI Police Station’s Evidence Management Centre reaches completion after a four-day effort by the team As is the case with any ambitious project in the city, maintenance remains the decider for this project’s longevity. As a head start, the Foundation has deployed one caretaker each for the gardens who are trained in basic upkeep. “For a period of one year, we will conduct monthly visits to the sites to determine the condition and butterfly activity. Following that, the gardens will be handed over to the police stations to maintain,” Shubhalaxmi shares, adding that plans to bring the project to police stations in Mumbai are in the works. For now, things are looking up. “When I stepped into work this morning, I made a detour to the garden and I was surprised to see that a butterfly had already laid eggs on one of the host plants,” reveals Patil. Perhaps amidst all the deafening whirs and thuds of the city’s infrastructural evolution, the Brazilian poet’s words still ring true. Log on to @inaturewatch on Instagram Do It Yourself Open areas in your apartment complex, office compound or school premises can make for ideal butterfly garden sites. Dr Shuhalaxmi gives us a handy guide. . Ensure you have at least 500 sq ft of usable area. Smaller areas might fail to create impact. Choose a mix of host and nectar plants. Easy picks include curry leaf, lemon, guava, hibiscus, marigold, and portulaca plants that are easy to maintain. Plant the saplings in closely packed patterns. Butterflies prefer dense foliage. Wait for the butterflies to arrive
28 January,2025 09:44 AM IST | Mumbai | Devashish KambleIt is a sweltering afternoon on the beach in Kozhikode. Amidst the buzz and humdrum of the media-room, Sophie Mackintosh is still in a tizzy when this writer catches up with her. The 37-year-old British novelist is in town as part of the just-concluded 8th Kerala Literature Festival (KLF), on the back of her latest title, Cursed Bread (Penguin RandomHouse). A work of atmospheric fiction that blends feminism, mass hysteria and historical fiction together, it was long-listed for the Women’s Prize in 2023. “I do love good stories about mass hysteria,” Mackintosh, a University of Warwick Writing Programme graduate, admits, when we catch up with her on the sidelines of KLF at the Thoolika venue on Kozhikode Beach. Having worked her way through the publicity industry, the Warwick graduate shares that Cursed Bread actually preceded her first works. “I had read about the tragedy of the events at Saint-Esprit in 1951, and thought someone should write about it. Then, I went off and wrote some stuff. But this kernel remained with me,” she recalls. The kernel revolves around the story of a baker’s wife, Elodie, whose slow obsession with a new couple in the sleepy village turns to chaos. The story was inspired by the 1951 incident in a small town of Saint-Esprit, near Paris that left 250 people of a village violently ill. Incidentally, Mackintosh spoke at the festival over multiple sessions about the genre, social constructs and the price of freedom — themes that recur in her work. Referring to her latest heroine, she says, “Elodie is a difficult character to love. She wants to break free from her life, but her drive for freedom pushes her so far out. I like such characters. They are flawed and difficult to explain, but you have to live with them.” Quite the line to take when people already speak of your works as part of Margaret Atwood and David Lynch’s literary family. “Now, that is a great comparison,” she laughs. As for the warmth of Kerala’s beaches, it might surprise some visitors but the London resident seems to be enjoying it. She reveals, “This is my first trip to South Asia. I flew in last week from Colombo. In Kerala, I just took off to visit the Beypore and Kappad beaches. As someone living in cold London, I just loved the sun,” she admits. Is a visit to Mumbai somewhere in the future, we ask? “Not yet. But I would love to drop by the city. There are so many stories,” she says. The Kerala trip is a short vacation from her ongoing work on the next title. “It is a romance, actually,” she chuckles. Set in contemporary times, the story will revolve around two women from different eras who find each other across time, Mackintosh says. “You can never have enough romance,” she chuckles, before rushing off to get a cold coffee before her next session.
28 January,2025 09:34 AM IST | Kozhikode | Shriram IyengarFor those of us staying away from our homes, festivals are the times where homesickness hits the most. With the cool winds of January bringing the harvest season to its fruition, the month saw people celebrating the arrival of fresh stock from farms with much cheer and joy. While Mumbai indulged in jaggery-laden sweets and crunchy snacks to celebrate Makar Sankranti, members of the Assamese community in Thane soaked in the spirit of Bihu on January 18 with a celebration full of revelry, food and obviously, nostalgia. Most of them live in Thane, and have been coming here for nearly 13 years. Since then, these celebrations include Bihu potluck parties at home with food cooked by the women of the community, before groups were formed on social media in 2014. “When we started gathering at each other’s houses for Bihu, there were very few Assamese families. The community expanded over the years and there came a point where people couldn’t be accommodated in the homes; it’s when we decided to host the festival on a bigger scale and I formed a Facebook group along with a few other people to keep everyone connected,” Gautaam Borah, the organiser of the festival tells us. A girl performs Bihu dance on the stage during the event This year saw a gathering of 90 to 100 people from in and around Mumbai and Thane to celebrate the 12th year of the community’s annual Bihu celebration. “We celebrate the festival on a Saturday closest to the date of Bihu, and since we don’t have an association or organisation, all the work for the festival is divided and voluntarily taken by people. This is the perfect time for us to catch up with each other and enjoy the festival like we used to back home,” Borah shares. In all the banter, a particular game catches our eye. “The Bihu lottery is a funny traditional game,” Manisha Mohan, a member of the community tells us. “We have food coupons with a number mentioned in it and a lottery is drawn. The lucky winner gets a bag of rice or a dozen eggs as the prize. It is quite a popular ritual back home,” she says. Since the gathering has new people joining the community every year, the other games carry fun twists to break the ice between members. While Jaapi, a brightly coloured traditional hat made from bamboo leaves is circulated in a game of passing the parcel, we also catch an amusing sight of couples struggling to balance on newspapers for a heady dance challenge at the event. A traditional Bihu platter It is not long before the delicious aroma wafting from the kitchen calls for feasting time. With the festive spread consisting of rice, dal, fish kalia and chicken kosha, the conversation inevitably turns to memories of traditional Assamese food. “There are practically no shops or stores where you can get authentic ingredients here. While some members source ingredients from Assam, we mostly manage with what is available in the city,” Aditi Kataki, another member explains. While the spread includes certain traditional dishes like narikol laru, nimki, til laru and kumol saul (semi-sticky rice soaked in water and eaten with jaggery and cream) prepared in small batches by the women of the community, the absence of a traditional food fair soon translates into a nostalgic yearning for home. Kumol saul with cream and jaggery “Bihu is when the granaries are full with fresh produce from farms, so in villages you’ll see people spiritedly celebrating Mukoli Bihu in fields. Women are clad in Mekhela Sador with Kapou flowers in their hair and everyone feasts together. Haahor mangxo (a spicy duck curry made with ash gourd) is a popular delicacy. I remember this one time, Manisha flew in duck meat from Assam for the festival, and cooked it for all of us. While we relished the curry, this cannot be arranged every year,” Kataki shares amidst laughs. Women gather for a group dance at the celebration As the evening draws to a close, we see the ladies admiring each other’s radiant sarees, children doing their own little dances and the food polished off. With the festive fervour slowly snuffing out, Borah drops in a tidbit. “We also celebrate Bohag Bihu in April, which is observed to welcome spring. It is one of the most pleasant season back home. This Bihu will be in an indoor venue because of the scorching heat here. Hopefully, with all these festive celebrations we’ll be able to instill our traditions in the younger generation and carry forward our culture,” he concludes. E-mail [email protected] (for details)
25 January,2025 10:03 AM IST | Mumbai | Divyasha PandaTemples are an extension of people’s homes, beliefs and practices,” says Vinit Mirkar, principal of IES College of Architecture in Bandra. This observation laid the foundation to the Deulkathan project that will take stage at the Kala Ghoda Art Festival that begins today. “The project was an effort to encourage first-year architecture students to understand what lies beyond the form of the temples, to push them to go beyond the textbook understanding of architecture,” shares Mirkar. In some ways, it has been a personal crusade. He adds, “I know of my gramdeivat (village deity) temple in Konkan that underwent a renovation, and transformed into a concrete uniform structure. It has lost a bit of its charm.” An on-site research session at the temple in Awarsa To bridge this gap between cultural practices and architectural improvisations the first-year students were sent on regular field trips. “This project revolves around five temples in Konkan, each built around a story. The students discovered these narratives during their research,” shares professor Shilpa Chandawarkar. These include Dhamapur Bhagawati temple in Kudal, Vijaydurga temple in Goa and Deulwada temple in Malvan. The only exception is the Katyayani Baneshwar temple in Awarsa, Karnataka. “All of these temples are on the coast, and associated with stories of the sea,” the professor adds. The Katyayani Baneshwar temple is known for its inverted boat-shaped roof — a marker of the legend claiming that the idol of the goddess was protected from invaders by keeping it hidden within an inverted boat. Vinit Mirkar The stories find their way into the exhibition in the form of photographs, drawings, 3D models as well as recordings and voiceovers. The project is an evolving one, Chandawarkar informs, adding that a new batch of students has returned with another survey. Mirkar adds, “We are now also including photography, videography and interacting with the community to help explain the nature of the project. Protecting these structures and retaining their stories is difficult, unless we are able to explain to them the need to renovate said structures with traditional material. It is the key to retaining their architectural essence.” This is where the role of INTACH (Indian National Trust for Art and Cultural Heritage) emerges. Co-convenor Katyayani Agarwal explains, “Architectural heritage is a key focus area. We wanted to engage with the next generation. Such projects can be a good opportunity to support and nurture a new generation.” The Kala Ghoda Arts Festival (KGAF) enables this project to find a larger audience. “These drawings and models are easily readable by the layman. It enables them to understand the ideas behind these structures,” Agarwal signs off. ON January 25 to February 2; 11 am to 7 pm AT Khadi Gram Udyog Bhandar, DN Road, Fort. FREE TODAY’S PICKS AT KGAF . OPENING CEREMONY: 6 pm onwards; Cross MaidanThe show includes Ganesh Stuti, Gondhal, a portrayal of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, a tribute to Lord Vitthal which will encapsulate Maharashtra’s traditions; a Sattriya performance by Krishkankshi Kashyap and Dhruba Talukdar; poetry and rhythm by Prachee Shah Pandya and Prithvi Gandharv and a kathak performance by Prachee Shah Paandya, with ghazals by Prithvi Gandharv. . LITERATURE: 7.30 pm to 8.30 pm; David Sassoon LibraryThe Spirit of Kala Ghoda: In KGAF’s silver jubilee edition, Sabyasachi Mukherjee, Saryu Doshi, Abha Narain, Vikas Dilawari, Rajan Jayakar and Brinda Miller will launch a book highlighting this journey. . MUSIC: 6 pm onwards; Cooperage BandstandNCPA in the Park: Enjoy a variety of performances. Register at www.ncpamumbai.com . THEATRE: 6 pm to 7.30 pm; Rangswar Auditorium, Yashwantrao Chavan CentrePatratoon Kaafka (Marathi): Watch this Marathi tribute to Franz Kafka, on his 100th death anniversary that explores the intimate aspects of his writing. LOG ON TO kalaghodaassociation.com (for entire schedule)
25 January,2025 09:58 AM IST | Mumbai | Shriram IyengarThe story of Christ Church School (CCS), in Byculla dates back to 1815, when Archdeacon George Barnes of the East India Company established the Bombay Education Society (BES) with just 10 students. The aim was to provide education to European children in Mumbai. By 1925, the school had grown sufficiently to warrant the creation of Christ Church School for day scholars in Byculla, and Barnes School in Deolali, Nashik for boarders. Over the years, CCS became a symbol of high-quality education, thanks to its founders. The impact of the four visionaries — Archdeacon George Barnes, Bishop Reginald Herber, Sir John Malcolm, and Major Edward Willoughby — endures even today, reflected in the names of the school’s four houses, as we found out when we stopped by for a walk back in time. Principal Graham Heiden Legacy of success As we interact with the school’s alumni who had dropped by on that day, it’s clear that they cherish their alma mater for its lasting memories and lifelong friendships. Many have gone on to achieve success in diverse fields, including medicine, law, architecture, fashion, film, sports, and business. Notable alumni include late actor Jalal Agha, Marathi film actor Mahesh Kothare, fashion designer Shane Peacock, and rugby captain Nasser Hussein. The student choir rehearses for the thanksgiving service Take Graham Heiden, the current principal, as an example. Heiden is the first ex-student to lead the school, but his relationship with the school goes beyond just being a student; it’s a family affair. His mother was also an alumna, and now, Graham is at the helm, with over 28 years of teaching under his belt. “I think it was just destiny that when we reached the centenary year, out of the twelve principals on the list, I am the only one that’s an ex-student,” shares Heiden. Parita Parmar and Amreen Khan Alumni Amreen Khan, whose father has been the boxing coach at CCS for nearly 40 years, now teaches the primary section. “This feels like a second home,” she says, noting that it was her father’s dream for her to return and teach. Similarly, Parita Parmar, a pre-primary teacher, shares, “How I speak, behave and respect those around me, is all because of my school. My batchmates share similar values.” Students rehearse for the upcoming centenary celebrations The bond among CCS students is often likened to that of a family. Former students Alfan Lakdawalaa and Vivek Metkari recall how principal Heiden remembers alumni by name, even years after their graduation. The school’s emphasis on physical education and teamwork was another highlight for the duo, who noted that while many of their peers at other schools had to travel for coaching, CCS provided excellent facilities on campus. A view of the main school building from the front gate The cornerstone The CCS campus, set on a sprawling seven-acre plot owned by Christ Church, exudes a sense of history. The school maintains a strong connection to the church, with important events such as the investiture ceremony for the prefect body held there as part of a solemn service. From its humble beginnings as a one-storey building, it has expanded into a multi-storey complex, now housing six divisions (A to G) to cater to its growing student body. Recent additions include a 12-storey staff quarters tower, which also accommodates the pre-primary section, and a new wing with state-of-the-art facilities. Giving back A core tenet here is humility, even among students from affluent backgrounds. Principal Heiden points out that the school has always been about more than just academics — its focus on humility sets CCS apart. The school fosters a strong sense of social responsibility through units like the Junior Red Cross, Guides, Scouts, and the Interact Club. “These units organise visits to orphanages, old age homes, and hospitals, encouraging students to engage with the wider community,” shares Heiden. Reflect and celebrate As the school marks its 100th anniversary, there is a palpable sense of pride. The celebrations will kick off with a thanksgiving service at Christ Church on January 29, followed by a dinner dance on the school grounds. The celebrations will culminate in a grand alumni night on February 1, where alumni from all over the world will gather to reminisce and honour the school’s remarkable journey through the last 100 years. For those who have walked the halls of CCS, these events offer a chance to reconnect with old friends, share memories, and honour the values and traditions that have stood the test of time. Make school fun On the opening day of the Paris Olympics, students were encouraged to ditch the uniform and come to school in the sportswear of their choice. The school was decorated with flags of different countries participating in the Olympics Games and over the next few days students were asked to regularly update each other on the games during classes.
25 January,2025 09:55 AM IST | Mumbai | Evita RocheThreading dreams Have a keen eye for stitching? Check out this sewing workshop to create your own personalised pillow, eye mask, and scrunchie.On January 25; 4.30 pm to 6.30 pmAt The Hab by Usha, 7th Road, Linking Road, Khar West. LOG ON TO @Thehab_Usha on InstagramFEE Rs 1499 Scare tactics Join an immersive workshop conducted by Puja Sarup (inset), where improvisation, and silliness come together to help you create your clown character.On January 26; 3.30 pm onwardsAt Little Theatre Foyer, NCPA, Nariman Point. LOG ON TO in.bookmyshow.comENTRY Rs 885
24 January,2025 09:39 AM IST | Mumbai | The Guide TeamThe past few years have seen a great number of recreational activities popping up to take people away from the concrete construct of cities and into the lap of nature. But somewhere in this rapidly proliferating culture of adventure activities, the essence of an outdoor trip is lost. In an attempt to flip this narrative, Tourbugs, a Pune-based venture is hosting a camping festival this weekend that promises to provide a raw camping experience to people in the serene environs of the Western Ghats. Arti Navindgikar, one half of Tourbugs tells us, “It has been more than 10 years of us hosting camps. My husband, Arvind and I are avid motorcyclists, and we love going on adventurous trips. This passion for the outdoors translated into us leaving our corporate jobs to build this idea.” Arti Navindgikar and Arvind Singh With a little home near Mulshi Dam in Tamhini Ghat, the couple host camping groups and solo travellers for an authentic out-in-the-wild experience. The camping festival is also conceptualised on a similar line of thought. “In the West, people usually engage in camping activities on their own — they pitch their own tents, light their own bonfire and prepare barbecue. That is exactly what we are aiming to do with the festival,” Navindgikar explains. A view of the campsite in Mulshi That being said, the couple tells us that they have planned a few activities for the festival, which includes the National Flag-hoisting on Republic Day, followed by a mini track race for motorcycle enthusiasts and an acoustic performance by Pune-based band Fiddlecraft. “Lately, there has been a rise of camping culture in India, but they are all very noisy and DJ-based experiences. If people have moved out of their clustered city homes for a getaway, the trip should be rejuvenating,” she says, adding that the peaceful atmosphere of their campsite has attracted families with children and pets. “There is no mobile network in the area where we camp, which is what pushes people to connect with other campers and engage in conversations. At the end of the day, it is all about creating an inclusive experience for everyone,” she says before signing off. On January 25 and 26; 2.30 pmAt Tourbugs Nest, Nive village, Mulshi, Pune. Log on to @tourbugs on InstagramCost Rs ,1750 (per person) Also Check out >> Sky full of starsSign-up for this campsite beside Bhandardara Lake that also promises the clearest sky for celestial spottings.On January 25; 2 pmMeeting point Kasara Railway Station. LOG ON TO treksandtrails.org Cost Rs 1,299 >> Beach vibesIf scrumptious barbecues, bonfire night, water-based sports and a dance party is your jam, this campsite in Alibaug is the spot to head over to.on January 26; 1.45 pmMeeting point Gateway of India. LOG ON TO adventuregeek.in Cost Rs 1,199 >> Wild adventuresFrom camps and luxury tents, to cottages and open-air movies, this campsite in Panshet is a perfect spot for fun in nature.On February 1; 3.30 pmcampsite Gypsy Soul, Panshet, Pune.LOG ON TO insider.inCost Rs 1,500 onwards
24 January,2025 09:34 AM IST | Mumbai | Divyasha PandaWith its catchy tagline, “Swipe books, not looks”, Bookmark — a new dating app — is connecting readers across the world with each other. The profiles in the app are structured like books. Readers can fill in their information, like their bios and personal beliefs, under the sections titled blurb, preface, story, epilogue, and bibliography. Additionally, they can add their favourite books to the bookshelves on their profiles. This allows readers who get matched to browse through each other’s collections and leave a message, if they enjoyed reading a specific book too. Co-founded by Bengaluru-based readers Shruti Sah and Harsh Snehanshu (founders of Cubbon Reads), along with Sid Zidaun and Avrojyoti Das, the app offers a wholesome way of finding partners — not necessarily for a romantic relationship, but also as book buddies. Harsh Snehanshu and Shruti Sah Books were a significant part of what connected Sah and Snehanshu. When they began Cubbon Reads, Sah tells us, “We saw that there were friendships forming very organically.” People would reach out to one another if they caught sight of a new or an intriguing title. “Over time we realised that people had, in this way, started to become friends with each other. Some had even started dating. That gave us an idea to create an app where people can actually get to know each other,” she adds. The app that was launched last year has onboarded over 50,000 users. A user shares a picture of the book they are reading on the app A highlight of the app is the hidden display picture, which gets revealed only after 10 messages have been exchanged with the matched profile. “The intent to talk to each other is focused around their personalities and interests, rather than something shallow as a face, which is a problem most people face on other apps,” observes Sah. Snehanshu agrees, “It was a daring move on our end, but we were confident that if you really are readers of similar kinds of books, 10 messages would be a no-brainer.” It can easily get the conversation started. They also provide prompts, a quirky one being “an author I’d love to hate with you”. The biography column is divided into sections similar to a book One of the initial snags faced by the team was dealing with fake profiles. Snehanshu reveals that about two per cent of the users were using celebrities’ pictures, instead of their own. The team has managed to block those. He adds, “We’re working on a selfie-verification, where your selfie will be matched with the picture you’ve put up to solve the problem more efficiently.” The team was also happy to report a higher ratio of women to men using the app, as compared to all other dating apps. Log on to bookmarkapp.co Founders’ reccos: Four books to carry on your first date >> An underrated book by a famous author>> A book that recommended you more good books>> A book that landed in your life almost magically>> A book that has a fantasy you’d like to play out someday
24 January,2025 09:29 AM IST | Mumbai | Nandini VarmaThursdayRise to the funk Pic Courtesy: Abhishek Gupta Kick-start the weekend with Funk Town, a live performance by the Adil Manuel Collective before you let loose to the groovy beats of DJ Ruskin.TIME 8 pm onwards At Hylo, K Dubash Marg, Kala Ghoda, Fort. FridayComedy unleashed Enjoy a night of nonstop laughter with stand-up comedian Inder Sahani (below) at his latest family-friendly solo show titled Papa.TIME 10.40 pm onwardsAT Live It Up Consultancy, Kamat Industrial Estate, Prabhadevi.LOG ON TO in.bookmyshow.com ENTRY Rs 444 SaturdayNaseer nostalgia Naseeruddin Shah Catch Waiting for Naseer, a philosophical comedy wherein two actors wait at the Prithvi Theatre café to catch a performance of their favourite actor’s new play.Time 8 pm onwardsAT Harkat Studios, Versova, Andheri West LOG ON TO insider.in ENTRY Rs 350 East Indian feast Join the mother-daughter duo of Veera and Natasha Almeida for an East Indian cooking and dining experience themed around a traditional East Indian wedding.TIME 11 am onwardsAT Jao Shiker, Giriz, Vasai.LOG ON TO @igoreyaa on Instagram COST Rs 1,600 SundayImprovised cheers Unleash your creativity at the Wham Bam Improv Jam, a platform for novice improvisers.TIME 3 pm onwardsAT Dorangos, Pali Hill, Bandra West. LOG ON TO in.bookmyshow.comENTRY Rs 499 Step into history Explore Mumbai’s rich history with Falak Chowdhury on a heritage walk around (above) August Kranti Maidan.Time 9 amMEETING POINT August Kranti Maidan, Tardeo. CALL 8291055774COST Rs 599
23 January,2025 03:06 PM IST | Mumbai | Evita RocheTravelling along the Western Railway has become a part of my daily routine for years now. On several occasions, when I’m dreading the start of a long day or feeling low at the end of it, and the city-heat has me feeling rather cranky, I stop at a small stall at Churchgate terminus with large dispensers filled with freshly-made apple juice. While I’m not overly fond of the fruit, this cold juice version is welcome respite on warm, humid days. At only Rs 10 a cup, this has been a saving grace for me as well as my mother, during our local train commute. Over time, it has become synonymous with a refreshing break. The store is dedicated to the fruit, and sells other apple products including apple cider vinegar and concentrates. At Near platform No. 4, Churchgate railway terminus
23 January,2025 08:59 AM IST | Mumbai | Evita RocheADVERTISEMENT
