Thursday Mindful movementsHealth: Re-energise with a traditional Hatha yoga class by yoga trainer Tanvi Mehra that uses a combination of meditation, asanas and mudras to relax your body and mind.TIME 8.30 am to 10 amAT Tangerine Arts Studio, Wilfred Apartments, St Leo Road, Bandra West. LOG ON TO www.tangerineartsstudio.com COST Rs 1,200 FRIDAY An evening of Marathi gloryTheatre: Attend Marathi Bana, a theatrical performance by a troupe of 125 artistes celebrating Marathi culture and tradition through music, dance and drama.TIME 8.30 pm onwards AT Prabodhankar Thackeray Auditorium, Chamunda Circle, Sodawala Lane, Borivli West.LOG ON TO in.bookmyshow.com COST RS 200 onwards Saturday Late Ustad Zakir Hussain in performance in 2015. File pic Ustadji, foreverEvent: Attend one of the concluding events of the Kala Ghoda Arts Festival (KGAF) with a tribute performance to late Ustad Zakir Hussain followed by the launch KGAF anthem by Shantanu Moitra and a concert by Sachin Sanghvi and Jigar Saraiya.TIME 6 pm onwardsAT The Asiatic Society, Shahid Bhagat Singh Road, Fort.FREE Sunday Dharavi’s Tamil heritageWalk: Discover the culture and tradition of the Tamil community in Dharavi on this guided walk by researcher Pooja Ashokkumar (in pic).TIME 4 pm to 6 pm MEETING POINT Kamraj High School, 90 feet road, Dharavi.LOG ON TO @gohalluhallu on Instagram COST Rs 1,250 (per person) Pic Courtesy/Treks and Trails Trip to the topTrek: Embark on an exhilarating trek of the Sondai Fort and also visit the beautiful Morbe dam along with a view of the ranges near Matheran from atop the fort. TIME 8 am MEETING POINT Karjat Railway Station. LOG ON TO in.bookmyshow.com COST Rs 599 onwards
30 January,2025 09:00 AM IST | Mumbai | Divyasha PandaIt's the late 1990s in Oman. At the Times of Oman Quiz Contest, quizmaster Derek O’Brien flashes an image on the screen, challenging his young contestants to identify the figure. There’s chatter among the participants — it’s a tough one. To be fair, the image on the screen is merely a shadow outline, and behind it is Kolkata-based hand shadow artiste Amar Sen painstakingly forming the silhouette. “My hands were trembling, and no one seemed to have an answer,” he recalls. A contestant hesitantly cuts through the chatter: “Is it... Sourav Ganguly?” The accurate guess is enough to make O’Brien, Sen and the audience burst into cheer. Nearly three decades and countless shows across India, Europe and North America later, Sen makes his way to Mumbai this Saturday. At 75 years old, his hands don’t tremble now, and he has many more stories to tell. From animals like dogs, tigers and deer, to human figures donning hats, smoking pipes and sporting funky hairdos, Sen has it all in the palm of his hands. These characters will come alive in a 30-minute show organised by city-based Gems Kids Club to spread awareness about ecological conservation, road safety, and animal welfare at a SoBo venue. Hand shadows depicting (from left) a man smoking; a man riding a horse; a bird drinking from a pot Sen’s career in shadowgraphy, interestingly, didn’t have a bright start. “At my Kolkata residence in 1972, I found myself in a room lit by a single candle — it was one of those untimely power cuts. I formed a simple duck-shaped shadow using my hands, and my old friend late Sabyasachi Sen instinctively mimicked the quack of a duck, and there we had our first show,” he reveals. The duo would go on to spend the next 16 years visiting museums and Kolkata’s Alipore Zoo to study the skeletons and movements of tigers, swans and deer. “I remember we once left the Zoo authorities baffled by observing a swan for two hours at a stretch,” he laughs. All those hours studying animal anatomy and mastering dexterity served the duo well. If you remember the catchy ‘MP Ajab Hai’ TV commercial featuring shadow art depictions of Madhya Pradesh’s wildlife, monuments and culture from 2010, the duo had a hand — two pairs to be precise — in popularising the tune. “By 2010, technological advancements had grown by leaps and bounds. What looks like multiple hands in the TVC, is in fact just layers of shadows superimposed using digital tools,” he reveals. But Sen swears by the novelty of live shows. “It’s when I perform with a single 55-watt light, a screen and my own hands, that the audience seems to cheer the loudest,” he shares. Amar Sen practises the art form in 1989 in Kolkata When the curtain falls on Sen’s show this weekend, amidst all the applause, a concern will remain at the back of his mind. He explains, “The art form is not dying, but it is not exactly thriving either. We’re at a crossroads from where the future of shadowgraphy will be decided. I can attest that the charm of watching shadows talk in front of you will never die. When I peek out to catch a glimpse of the audience, they’re always in awe. Almost as if they’re saying to themselves ‘This can be done with just hands?’” ON February 1; 4 pm and 7 pmAT Sophia Bhabha Auditorium, Bhulabhai Desai Road, Breach Candy. LOG ON TO in.bookmyshow.com ENTRY Rs 499
30 January,2025 08:50 AM IST | Mumbai | Devashish KambleMy phone case has become an unlikely conversation starter. It’s a faux sticker case featuring symbols from iconic TV shows like Friends, Money Heist, and Game of Thrones that I happened upon while scrolling through a site that a friend had mentioned. I’ve had people refer to me as, “the girl with the TV show phone case,” when they spoke about me because of this acquisition. It’s amazing how a small element can spark connections and conversations over shared fandoms. The case is now part of my identity, and is a fun way to showcase my personality and interests. LOG ON TO dailyobjects.com
30 January,2025 08:41 AM IST | Mumbai | Evita RocheFOOD Puri vasool: For over a century, this eatery in the bylanes near Mumbai GPO, has been serving delicious Indian snacks and thaalis, keeping things simple but ever-satisfying. Whether it’s the puris or dahi puri, the flavours here hit the right notes, making it an easy stop for a tasty and affordable meal.AT Pancham Puriwala, Perin Nariman Street, Fort. TIME 9 am to 11 pm COST R60 onwards South Indian sojourn: A Fort favourite continues to uphold its reputation for serving excellent South Indian vegetarian fare. From dosas to vadas and idlis, each dish is prepared with care and consistency. The variety of snacks makes it an ideal spot for any time of day, be it for breakfast, lunch, or a quick evening snack. Some bestsellers include the masala dosa, and medu vada served with sambar and chutney.AT Poornima Restaurant, Muddanna Shetty Marg, Fort.TIME Monday to Saturday, 7.30 am to 8 pm; Sundays, 7.30 am to 5 pm COST R100 onwards Thaalis at the popular puri haunt in Fort. Pics courtesy/Instagram Late-night snack haven: In a back alley near the bustle of the festival, this gem offers a no-frills experience with a focus on late-night comfort food. The mutton baida roti and the chicken tikka roll are crowd-pleasers, giving you the energy needed to dive back into the festivities. AT Ayub’s restaurant, Sassoon Building 43, Forbes Street, Kala Ghoda. TIME 4.30 pm to 1.30 am COST R200 onwards EXPERIENCE Walk in the Estate: Stroll through quaint and well-planned, tree-lined streets that offer an oasis of calm away from the bustle of the Fort. A perfect spot for photography and an Irani meal at Britannia and Company. AT Ballard Estate. A couple enjoys an E-Victoria ride at Nariman Point. File pic Green getaway: Unwind while enjoying a stunning view of the Rajabai Clock Tower, Bombay High Court and adjacent buildings, as well as the grand Art Deco apartments that line the opposite edge.AT Oval Maidan, Churchgate. Ride into nostalgia: Hop on an eco-friendly E-Victoria for a breezy ride along the sea-facing promenades for a scenic and nostalgic way to see South Mumbai. AT Near Gateway of India and Marine Drive. LOG ON TO @uboridez_india COST R500 (for short trips) DRINK Sugarcane juice in paper cups Sweet simplicity: After you move away from the main hub of the festival, stop by a refreshing sugarcane juice stall. You can enjoy a freshly pressed cup of sugarcane juice — a sweet and energising way to beat the Mumbai heat while soaking in the art and culture.AT Outside the National Gallery of Modern Art, opposite the main gate of CSMVS Museum. COST R25 The fresh fruit juice kiosk A fresh burst: Located just opposite the Colaba Causeway, this tiny juice kiosk serves up a variety of refreshing juices and milkshakes. After a busy day of festival fun, treat yourself to tangy fruit blends and creamy shakes.AT New Poornima Juice Centre, Apollo Bunder, Colaba. TIME 9 am to 11.30 pm COST R50 onwards Colaba staple: For most Mumbaikars, a visit to this bar is almost a rite of passage. Located behind the iconic Taj Mahal Palace, this casual spot offers an extensive selection of beers starting at an affordable price. It’s perfect for a chilled drink with friends after a day of festival fun.AT Gokul Bar and Restaurant, Apollo Bunder, Colaba.TIME 11 am to 1.30 am COST R110 onwards SHOP A wide range of jewellery on display at Colaba Causeway SoBo’s horizontal mall: This is a shopper’s paradise, blending high-end brands with affordable alternatives. For a mix of both, explore a variety of jewellery, quirky phone covers and all things denim at stalls behind Cafe Mondegar, which is a five-minute walk from the main venue of the festival. If you’re in the mood for a thrift store find, Cotton Colour, near BEST Electric House, offers a variety of pre-loved items. Whether you’re window-shopping or on a budget, you’ll find treasures at every turn. AT Colaba Causeway. TIME 10.30 am to 9 pm (all days) Paper sanctuary: Fort has a hidden haven for paper lovers. Choose from eco-friendly greeting cards made with dried leaves, to intricate gift tags and DIY boxes. AT Chimanlals, Wallace Street, off DN Road, Fort. TIME 9.30 am to 5.30 pm COST R36 per sheet (handmade paper) Readers’ paradise: For book enthusiasts, the second-hand booksellers near Flora Fountain are a must-visit. The rare finds and classic novels at these stalls offer a delightful treasure hunt for readers. If you’re willing to haggle, you might just walk away with a bulk of literary treasures for a steal. AT Flora Fountain, opposite HSBC Bank, Fort. TIME 10 am to 8.30 pm (all days) WATCH Old-world cine charm: In a city where single-screen theatres are becoming increasingly rare, Regal Cinema stands as a 92-year-old gem. Offering affordable tickets and movie time snacks, it’s the perfect spot to catch the latest releases.AT Regal Cinema, Colaba. LOG ON TO in.bookmyshow.com COST R100 onwards
30 January,2025 08:38 AM IST | Mumbai | Evita RocheHistory 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 IyengarADVERTISEMENT
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