History as we all know, is an ever-evolving and dynamic entity. Nothing is ever in the past as long as a connection can be traced and monuments often serve as the gateway for such reflections. Embarking on a similar voyage to the era of ancient Indian history through models and exhibits are the young scholars of Ramnarain Ruia College (Autonomous) in Matunga. An exhibition by the second-year History students of the college will explore the ancient Indian knowledge system and the art and architecture of temples from 300 BCE to 1000 CE. An exhibit on the shipbuilding techniques of the Mauryan Period “This is the third edition of the annual exhibition conducted by the students of the History department. It is one of the ways through which we want to ensure experiential learning for the students so that they understand the heritage aspects of Indian history in a nuanced manner,” Pradeep Waghmare, head of the History department of the college, tells us. A 3D map highlights the maritime route of the Mauryan empire With models inspired from the culture and architecture of ancient history — starting from the maritime routes of the Mauryan empire to the Dravidian construct of Chola and Pallava temples, and the post-classical artefacts of the early medieval period — the exhibition is a deeply researched study of the intellectual and cultural temper that laid the foundation of some of the earliest dynasties in India. “We have been working on the project for over a month now and consulted various academic resources including UNESCO archives for the research. The process was arduous but also extremely enriching,” Jiya Dagliya, a History student shares, adding that the exhibits are made from eco-friendly materials as a way to uphold sustainable practices in academic projects. “We are excited to showcase our models to visitors. All of us have worked hard on our topic, and although the models are a part of the curriculum, it was an extremely fun experience for the batch as well,” Dagliya tells us before signing off. ON February 2; 10 am to 12 pm AT Senior College Reading Hall, Ramnarain Ruia (Autonomous) College, 3rd Floor, Lakhamsi Napoo Road, Matunga (Central Railway).FREE
29 January,2025 02:16 PM IST | Mumbai | Divyasha PandaNupur Yi Shetty has prepared only 1.5 kilograms of funchowza, a traditional Chinese sweet made for Chinese New Year for this year’s celebrations — a stark contrast from two decades ago, when her family would prepare nearly eight kilograms of this sweet item. The Mumbaikar, who is of Chinese-Maharashtrian descent, is one of the last few in the city to continue the annual tradition. Even though her husband hails from the Shetty community, she takes great pride in continuing such traditions, “Earlier, everybody including my aunt, cousins, nieces and nephews, nearly eight to twelve of us, would come together. A lot of hands are needed because it is a delicate sweet and took six to seven hours to make; we would prepare five to eight kilograms. Now, there are only four of us because almost 50 per cent of the family has moved overseas; so I make it only in my house.” (From left to right) Batches of funchowza laid out on plates for Chinese New Year celebrations; a portion of the traditional Chinese sweet after it is fried. pics courtesy/Nupur Yi Shetty The Lunar New Year or Chinese New Year, as it is more popularly known, is one of the only festivals that Mumbai’s Chinese community celebrates. While last year was the Year of the Dragon, this year is the Year of the Wood Snake, and will be celebrated from today till February 12. The community here is dwindling in numbers, with only 4,000 people reportedly being of Chinese-origin. However, every year the close-knit community comes to usher in the new year at the only known Chinese temple, Kwan Tai Kung in Mazgaon’s Dockyard Road. Nupur and her extended family of more than 38 people come together to celebrate it with a large feast that is usually a potluck at a cousin’s place. The 100-year old noodle-making machine is a family heirloom Finding funchowza Of the many dishes, the funchowza is always present, and has been a dish that she has been enjoying on the menu for over 40 years ever since she was a child. Nupur likes to call it the “Chinese version of an Indian shankarpali,” to help Indians get the connection. Funchowza is a sweet made from flour, sugar and sesame seeds, and traditionally given as an offering to the ancestors, Nupur says, as the community doesn’t believe in idol worship. After it is prepared, they relish it and distribute it among their family. Preparing it isn’t simple, as it requires technique, one that the Mumbaikar, who grew up in Kalyan, has nurtured for 20 years now. She reminisces, “My mother did not know how to make it. So, my dad’s sister would come home to make it, and that’s how we learned the process.” Nupur has now made it a family affair where her close family and friends get together to make it. “We use a 100-year-old noodle making machine to make the funchowza. It was handed by my eldest uncle to my mother who passed it down to me,” she reveals. A moment from last year’s Chinese New Year celebrations Traditional talk The Thane-based doctor has passed on the technique and recipe to her daughter and hopes she continues it in the future. “She is keen on making it but not in large quantities.” She also distributes the sweet to neighbours and friends around her. It may have to do with the Indian factor, she says, as people like this tradition. Nupur says while restaurants serve a version of it called honey noodles, it isn’t authentic because honey is used instead of sugar. Nupur Yi Shetty Nupur remains the flag bearer of funchowza in Mumbai as she tries to convince more people to make it. Unfortunately, she says juggling people’s timings doesn’t make it easy to spread the tradition. Besides funchowza, Nupur says moon cakes are among the handful of other sweet treats, particularly in Mumbai, as compared to China. She explains, “There are a few desserts in Chinese cuisine because we don’t eat many sweets, and dairy doesn’t exist in our cuisine.” It is in stark contrast compared to the Indian sweets but that doesn’t stop her from continuing this tradition not without the family celebration, which will be in Karjat this year.
29 January,2025 01:18 PM IST | Mumbai | Nascimento PintoIn honour of Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi on his death anniversary, the students of St Xavier’s Empowered Autonomous College, Dhobi Talao, will be hosting an exhibition on January 30 and 31. This immersive event, organised in collaboration with the Museum Society of Mumbai, promises to offer visitors an in-depth understanding of the Father of the Nation’s life and his contributions to India’s freedom struggle. The exhibition will showcase rare relics, and artefacts that provide insight into Gandhi’s journey from the Dandi March, to his tragic assassination. Among the highlights is Mahatma Gandhi’s personal relic, his ashes which will be displayed alongside coins, locks, original paper cuttings and printed posters, including some lesser-known prints from Rajasthan. These rare items have been sourced directly from archives and personal collections, ensuring a unique experience for all attendees. Notably, Gandhi’s handwritten letters, displayed in both open and cased formats, will offer a personal glimpse into the leader’s thoughts and beliefs. A copy of the Illustrated London Weekly dated March 14, 1931 Dr Anita Rane Kothare, head of the department of Ancient Indian History, Culture and Archeology, shared her vision for the exhibition, stating, “This exhibition goes beyond the textbook — it’s about experiencing the journey of Mahatma Gandhi through original documents and artefacts that are seldom displayed.” Additionally, there will be a live band performance and a gramophone playing original records of Gandhi’s speeches. A commemorative bookmark of Mahatma Gandhi’s spectacles will also be available at R30 each. ON January 30 to 31; 10 am onwardsAT XIMR Hall, St Xavier’s Empowered Autonomous College, Dhobi Talao.FREE Rethinking museums Dr Aaron Bryant, US-based distinguished museum curator and expert in museum studies, will present a public lecture on museumology. He will explore the concepts of museumisation and de-museumisation, offering insights into the evolving role of museums in the 21st century. This lecture promises to be a thought-provoking examination of how museums collect, preserve, and present cultural and historical artefacts in a rapidly changing world. Dr Bryant’s expertise will provide a unique perspective on the future of museums and their impact on society.ON January 29; 4 pm onwardsAT XIMR Hall, St Xavier’s Empowered Autonomous College, Dhobi Talao.FREE
29 January,2025 09:56 AM IST | Mumbai | Evita RocheBoulder Unmana, writer, AndheriI was prompted towards Eva Baltasar’s book (translated by Julia Sanches) by online recommendations, my husband, who bought it some months ago, and a book club. When a friend recommended it as a queer book, I finally devoured it. It’s a beautiful novella narrated by the queer woman protagonist who craves love but abhors commitment. Asamanya Rupali Jambhekar, bank cashier, AndheriThe name of Meena Karnik’s book and the gist at the back drew me towards it. I have read Karnik’s Marathi translation of Bitter Chocolate, a book by Pinky Virani on child abuse, as well. This one impressed me with its powerful narrative of the grit displayed by ordinary men and women, in the face of crushing adversity, and their indomitable spirit. A Love Song for Ricki Wilde Saanika Kodial, psychology student, Grant RoadWhen I picked up this book by Tia Williams, I thought it would be just another cute romance novel with the protagonist writing a song for their love interest, but I was wrong. The book far surpassed that, infusing a simple trope with enthralling, poetic storytelling of the Harlem Renaissance and a swoony fantasy. It also included some sombre notes of mental health struggles and racism, following the protagonist’s journey towards the ‘American Dream’. Bombay Balchao Siddhant Dalvi, technology professional, ParelLately, I’ve been fascinated by Mumbai’s history and how the city evolved into the metropolis it is today. I stumbled upon Jane Borges’ book while browsing for Mumbai-centric books. It beautifully captures the Catholic community’s life in Cavel, but it feels like any vibrant Mumbai neighbourhood. Borges’ storytelling is nostalgic, and a tribute to the city’s diverse, multicultural communities. The Little Snake Yashasvi Vachhani, educator and writer, KharI chanced upon this book by AL Kennedy in the library section at Trilogy Bookshop in Bandra. Written like a fable, the story charts the friendship between a little girl and a snake. It is a fantasy, full of allegories. It made me stop and think about life and the world we live in. Readers have compared it to The Little Prince. I would totally recommend this powerful nugget of a book. I Feel Bad About My Neck, And Other Thoughts on Being a Woman Rohan Banerjee, lawyer, BandraThis is a collection of some of Nora Ephron’s brilliant essays on life, New York, and womanhood in general. They are funny, insightful, and so well written. I received it as a gift in a Secret Santa book exchange, so the surprise worked well.
29 January,2025 09:53 AM IST | Mumbai | Nandini VarmaThe 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 TeamADVERTISEMENT
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