Escolar Documentos
Profissional Documentos
Cultura Documentos
80
18 28
STAY FIT BEAUTIFUL
LITTLE KNOWN
LYTTELTON
Kavita Sivaramakrishnan
ARTICLES
CAIRO DIARY
D. B. N. Murthy
7
ENJOY STAYCATIONS
Sudha Chandrasekaran
90 AN ARTIST FORESEEING
COOKERY
THE 22ND CENTURY 48 BAISAKHI FESTIVITY Chicken
in peas
40
Our Correspondent ● Pineapple Fish METHO
and
e the filling:
To prepar fry the rice adding
Heat
heat for
Fry on low
● Indian Bread
all the spices. aside. The
s. Keep
2-3 minute be spicy and tasty.
ghee and
OF ARTIST
at a time Cook on
prepared
guests who We of the
it
and close out this ingredients. time till most
chappati ball. Roll fry INGREDIENT
S: the in a pre
g. stirring all
Healthy Snack
a round ated. Bake C for
come alon to obtain thick chappati and on
●
sooji is evapor
a or ghee 1 cup rice water at 160 degree of the
ball into . 1 cup rava – broken
three a with oil heated oven
bring you this paranth crispy and brownin
2 cups of
grated lauki
atleast an
hour till
the top
Remov e
different low fire
till
parant has
dahi r golden
brown. s
meals with savour the other 2 cups of cake is into square
powde
Prepar e 3/ spoon of
red chillies r oven, cut
le fish way. r powde from the
flavours to
Pineapp the same stuffed with rice 4
1/ tsp of amchu as a snack.
Chicken in Peas
Indian bread 4 of oil
festivity.
●
3-4 tbsp
during the salt to taste
N IN
BAISfeAstKivHitI y
D
CHICKE
Ghosh METHO the
By Roma Dry roast rava
PEAS
the
sooji and golden
till a light S:
the same
INGREDIENT
Steamed Dumplings
brown. In ly grated
●
once the of coarse
kadha i, a 11/ 2 cups
rava are
sooji and peas
brown, add 3 tbsp of oil
light golden masala
1/ tsp of garam r
2 chillies powde
snack 1/ tsp of red
BREAD
Healthy
lemon juice chicken
4
in Milk
2 tsp of
INDIAN WITH
ss
of bonele
a time. Turn 400 gm
STUFFED
a few at so
fish pieces or twice pieces
pieces once are golden salt to taste
PLE FISH
the fish
PINEAP
the sides
RICE
aside. marinade: paste
FICTION
that both e and keep onion For the
ntha)
DIENTS: brown. Removpan, fry the wal para 2 tsp of
ginger garlic
INGRE of rahu fish In the same Lower the (Cha
Chocolicious
dahi
golden brown. S: 3 tbsp of paste
●
6-8 pieces the
ple
of pineap – sliced slices till leaf and INGREDIENT 1 tsp of
green chillies
4 slices mix in bay fine aroma tha:
onion into heat and fry till a take 2-3 For the paranflour salt to taste
1 large sized papad – cut spices and
of aam this should cup of wheat D for the
100 gm rises – tomato puree 1 ghee
METHO ingredients te the
d oil Mix in the slices which 1 tbsp of Mix all the
cubes
of mustar minutes. for frying and marina 1 hour.
4-5 tbsp pineap ple or ghee marina de this for
and the small pieces. oil to taste pieces in
●
1 bay cut and salt chicken
have been of water oil in a kadhai
half cup in the filling: Heat the
2 chillies powder Also add to boil. Mix pieces For the 49
1/ tsp of haldi rice
2 chilli powder bring the gravy
aam papad 1 cup of cooked
red
1 tsp of and
fish pieces e to cook for
a few of oil r or
tomato puree to 2 tsp chillies powde April (First)
2009
3 tbsp of and continuthe gravy beginsthe 1/ 2 tsp of red Era ●
Woman’s
salt to taste minute s
till adjust ur powde
r
more
half the thicke n. You couldgravy to your
with Couscous
D of aamch
METHO salt and pinches powder
Sprink le powder
over of the l ka 3-4 of roasted jeera
of the haldi consistency with chawa 1 tsp
quantity aside for . Serve
and leave d oil choice
the fish piecesHeat the mustar the parantha.
s. fry
10 minute and pan (First) 2009
non stick pan s Era ● April
in a Woman’
38 THE INCIDENT
I CANNOT FORGET
42 GRATEFULLY YOURS
131 BABY CLUB
96
132 CROSSWORD 60 ON THE TRAIL
SETTING NEW MILESTONES OF GREAT
146 AS YOU SAY MEET PREETI DESAI MASTERS
Ameeta Sharma Puja Sharma
83 TEENACHE
84 COSY NEST (Interiors)
89 YOUR BODY
136 CHILD CHALLENGES
68 44
140 CLASSIFIEDS
GRACEFUL TRENDY &
STYLISH LONGER & SEXIER READERS’
CONTESTS
FEATURES 78
PERFECT PICTURE
FILL UP THE
CROSSWORD
Page
132
O B
ver the years, business of surrogacy has ritish Prime Minister Gordon Brown had declared
mushroomed throughout India. Just take a look to take full responsibility for his role in the
at the statistics. At present there are about banking failure that led to global recession. He
17000 fertility clinics all over India. Mostly serving to the claims that the downturn marks the end of the era of
foreign clients, these clinics churn out an annual laissez-faire government.
business of about Rs 2000 crore in surrogacy. In an interview, he concedes that in retrospection
Certainly, quite impressive figures. But strangely he wishes he had mounted a popular campaign 10
enough, at present there are no rules and regulations years ago to demand more responsible regulation of
or laws to govern this vast business, which is sure to the world’s financial markets. Then, Asian countries
grow further in the years to come. were facing similar problems and Western nations
Nowadays, newspapers and magazines openly thought they would go away on their own. Brown claims
carry advertisements for the services of the surrogate that the 40-year-old prevalent orthodoxy known as the
mothers. Huge sum of money is involved in the entire Washington Consensus in favour of free markets has
business with, of course, assured secrecy for the come to an end. Laissez-faire has had its day. People
women desiring to rent out their wombs. But lack of a on the centre-left and the progressive agenda should be
proper governing law means, that there confident enough to say that the old idea
is every possibility of cheating or being that the markets were efficient and could
cheated. work things out by themselves are gone, he
Taking note of the vastness of the says.
business and associated complications, Reasons are simple. Most people want
the outgoing Central Government had the business to adhere to the same values
proposed a law and drafted legislation as they practise in their daily life. People
for the same. But it could not frame it, will rather reward hard work rather than risk-
as by then general elections had been taking and rash driving, they want to support
declared. enterprise and not excess. They want to
So the country will have to wait till the support people that take responsibility and
formation of next Lok Sabha. Experts in not run away from it. This eye-opener has
fertility business are hopeful, that the come in wake of the revelation that
new government will frame the laws as soon as unemployment in Britain passed the two million mark in
possible after assuming power. Then, they maintain, the three months by the end of January, 2009 reaching
there will be no room for the legal complexity in the its highest level since 1997, according to the official
business. figures. The jobless total reached 2.03 million, pushing
Whether the government keeps their expectations or the unemployment rate further to 6.5 per cent.
not, only the time will tell. But one thing that highlights This rapidly rising number of unemployed youths is
in the whole scenario is an unpardonable negligence definitely going to put enormous pressure on the
on the part of the government. country’s government. Already demands have begun
It allows certain activities to grow unchecked and to be raised there to deport the foreign nationals
comes round only when some ambiguity surfaces. working in Britain and deny visa to freshers. What is
General understanding among the public is that you more, the British Chambers of Commerce (BCC)
cannot start your business legally, for at every step predicted earlier this month that unemployment would
the government machinery will interfere with your climb to 3.2 million by the end of 2010. These
working. revelations are coming amidst the International
Yes, if you have the guts, you can start anything by Monetary Fund (IMF) prediction that Britain’s recession
greasing the palms of local authorities. When you begin would last longer than that of anywhere in the world’s
to flourish, government will come itself to grant your other major economies. All these developments point
work a legal recognition. Sadly, this is how business to the fact that in near future, governments in western
grows in India. countries will meddle more with day-to-day business
And sadly this is how the whole picture has become activities. There will be more regulations making it hard
so haphazard, where an honest and hard-working for the youth from Third World countries to settle there.
person hardly gets an opportunity to grow. Hopefully India and other developing nations will have to put their
with new Parliament in place, a new system will stakes in correct perspective in G20 meeting that is
emerge where business regularisation will not mean going to start in London from 2nd April, 2009.
under-cloth dealing. write to: letters@womansera.com We
A
vacation envy as you see relaxed, refreshed and
your plans vanishing due to positive outlook. With soaring
the skyrocketing prices of petrol prices and financial
petrol and airline tickets? meltdown, staycations are a
Vacations carry important new reality in the West. In our
benefits for stress country, too the staycation is
management, productivity attracting workaholics and very
and health. Unfortunately, frequent travellers who travel too
many people do not avail munch on work.
of vacations because of time or I do enjoy travelling a lot but of
money constraints. Luckily, there are late this idea of holidaying at home
ways you can enjoy many of the seems to appeal to me. People may that combines “stay” and “vacation”
benefits that a vacation would bring think it is a good idea to save on and refers to a holiday that takes
without spending as much time or costs during these hard times. But place either at or near home.
money as you would on a “formal whether recession or otherwise, a According to The New York Times, it
vacation”. vacation at home is indeed most is “a neologism used by those who
Recently, we have been hearing welcome. prefer to unravel the mysteries of the
a lot about ‘staycations’. It is the new world from the comfort of their living
buzz word which encourages people room couches”. The recent emerging
to take a vacation at home and be a STAY AND VACATION vacation trend, staycation is a holiday
tourist in their own city. Go on a “Staycation” was coined by minus the stress associated with
frugal staycation filled with old Canadian comedian Brent Butt in his travel and it is a period of time
favourites and new adventures! famous television series Corner Gas. wherein an individual or family stays
Chances are that you have not It became popular with the soaring at home and relaxes or takes day
experienced everything in your local gas prices and economic slowdown. trips from their home to area
region. Save money, avoid crowds, The staycation is a portmanteau word attractions.
S
the heat and humidity
keeping us hot and troubled.
No matter, how much effort
we make to avoid the sun’s
rays and scorching high
temperature, the energy
crunch will affect us all
through the summer.
According to the eminent
observers the “summer heralds the
arrival of sweat, drainage of energy,
dehydration, characteristic diseases,
harsh sunburns, deep tanning and
myriads of skin and hair problems.
One must have the required
knowledge and skill to combat this
problem at its earliest stage before it
becomes aggravated. However,
survival can be ensured by following
the saying, ‘better late than never.’
Extra time and attention is demanded
for giving everyone a glowing fresh
look, confidently bearing the
scorching heat and the merciless
impacts of heat waves on the skin,
hair and health. Food intake needs
to be taken care of for sustaining the
glow and as for maintaining good
health.”
Basically we tend to expose more
of our body to the sun especially
BEAT THE
HEAT WITH
COOL TOUCH
By following the
advisory mentioned
there in depth, you can
surely beat the
scorching summer.
By Suman Vats
during summer which results in the breathable fabric like cotton should
loss of water from our body by the be used.
DO NOT GO OUT
process of draining (sweat) and so Besides this, make a habit of INTO THE SUN
there is a lack of resistance and
energy. So maintaining the body
splashing your face gently with water
for instant freshness (try and use
SUDDENLY FROM A
water level is very important. mineral water). It is important to COOL OR AIR-
Increase the intake of liquid foods like
juices, sodas, shakes, nibu paani
cleanse your skin properly in the
summer to cool yourself. Wash your
CONDITIONED ROOM,
(lemonade) and water. Drink at least face four-five times a day with cold OR DO THE OPPOSITE.
eight glasses of water and
intersperse these with fruit juices,
water and a soap-free cleanser. This
removes the build-up of sweat, dust
LEARN TO BECOME
including citrus, apple, apricot and and make-up from your skin and ACCUSTOMED
pineapple – also vegetable juices, keeps the pores clean. Since facing SLOWLY. WHEN OUT
especially carrot, tomato and celery the sun cannot be avoided, exfoliate
It is better to avoid heavy and fatty twice a week and get a facial every IN THE SUN, MAKE
foods especially those which are oily. fortnight to maintain a healthy and SURE YOU USE AN
Fruits are the best active energy balanced skin. Exfoliation removes
agents that keep you ever active. Eat dead skin cells, tones and adds a UMBRELLA OR A HAT.
fruits like grapes and watermelons glow to your face. Your skin loses its
that keep the body cool and help in natural moisture in summer. Hence,
regulating the heat. Try to eat fresh you must use a moisturiser daily
and green vegetables as much as irrespective of your skin type. Apply it
possible during the day. on duly cleansed skin before going
With a little care and precautions, to bed at night, so that your skin
you can beat the heat. As you step regains the moisture it has lost during
out of the house, make sure to apply the day.
a sun screen lotion on your face,
neck, hands and other exposed parts
of the body. Use a sunscreen of SPF ROSE WATER
15 or higher. In this way, you can Rose water is one of the natural
protect your skin from getting burnt. If skin-care products immensely useful
you do burn, apply aloe vera or during this hot-wet season. Equal
lotions containing it. This will cool and quantities of rose water and
soothe your skin and help you heal cucumber juice have to be bottled
faster. For the lips, the best and refrigerated. This soothing lotion
protection against sun damage is a can be refrigerated for seven days.
water-resistant lip balm that keeps To treat heat rash apply home-
the lips moist and has an SPF of 15 made yogurt all over your body
per cent or higher. If your skin tans before bath or add turmeric to the tomato are very effective in removing
easily, then wear clothes that cover yogurt and apply it. If you have any suntan. These natural products
your arms and protect your skin from skin-related problems you can add should not be used directly on your
harmful rays of the sun. neem juice to the pack and apply it. skin but should be applied with a
Do not go out into the sun Natural bleaches like lemon and base. If your skin is sensitive to
suddenly from a cool or air- lemon and tomato juice, apply a
conditioned room, or do the opposite. mixture of cucumber and
Learn to become accustomed slowly. turmeric juice three-four
When out in the sun, make sure you times a day.
use an umbrella or a hat. A hat gives Do not go out during the
ideal protection from the burning hottest part of the day,
effects of the sun. It is effective in between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.
cutting out the sun’s rays from A thin mixture of red
reaching the scalp and reduces the sandalwood powder and
damage to a large extent. Mesh rosewater applied to
hats are translucent and allow your skin two-three
the sun’s rays to penetrate times a week can
through it thereby rendering help it become more
it useless in its supple. Take an
duties. Hence, hats of aromatherapy
floral water or hydrosol along for the hair. The hair wash after swimming
day to stay refreshed. Each evening, rinses away the chemicals that might
splash lots of cool water on your linger in the hair.
eyes. You can soak some cotton During this season your make-up
pads in cool water or rose water and should be reduced to the minimum
place them over closed eyes for 10 and the emphasis should be on
minutes. Keep your feet clean and naturalness. Avoid using foundation
cool. Wear sandals when you can to creams and lotions of any sort
let your feet breathe and stay odour- because heat may cause them to run
free. down your face. Use a lipstick of a
The hot sun’s rays not only harm pastel shade and use rouge
the skin but also affect the hair. Thus, sparingly. Finish your make-up with a
hair too requires special care and light puff of powder. Switch to
attention during the summer. The products that can handle the heat
most important point in summer hair- and sweat.
care is to adopt a manageable Look for a long-wearing eyeliner
hairstyle for the seasons. It is most which is also water-resistant. If it’s
really hot and you don’t want to go
to the trouble of applying full make-
up, a touch of waterproof mascara
and a little eyeliner will open up the
convenient to sport short hair during eyes and bring your face to life. Use a
the hot days, as it is hassle free and cooling pack comprising cooling
does not frizzle. Summer heat makes agents such as cucumber, rosewater,
our hair brittle leading to hair sandalwood, Fuller’s earth, camphor
damage. Try to use hair moisturisers powder, neem leaves etc.
if you don’t use alternative hair
polishers like coconut oil, cream, gel
etc. COOL PACKS
“It is imperative to use a mild ● Apply one spoon each of honey
shampoo specific to various hair and lemon juice to your face every
types to cleanse and preserve its day. It will noticeably lessen the
lustre. A clarifier should also be used darkening of skin due to sun exposure.
to wash away dirt and other ● Prepare a green tea brew.
chemicals from the scalp and the Freeze the brew to form ice cubes.
hair. A conditioner enriched with Rub the cubes gently all over your
sunscreen should be used that will skin for a cooling effect.
form a protective layer ensuring a ● Application of mashed unripe
longer living shine. A pinch of papayas as a face mask is an
sunscreen may also be applied on excellent way to prevent premature
the hair and scalp to be washed ageing that comes with constant
away later, for that extra protection. exposure to the sun.
Hair colouring and highlighting ● Aloe vera is the perfect cooling
causes dryness that makes the hair remedy for a sun-burnt skin. Pluck a
appear dull and coarse to touch. fresh aloe vera leaf and extract its
Hence, control experimenting with gel. Apply it to the face and rinse it off
your hair in summer months.” after it dries for a cooling effect.
Even though summer calls for ● Apply a paste of freshly ground
swimming and playful splashing in green mint all over the face. Leave it
water, one must not overlook the on for 15 minutes and then wash it
harmful effects of chlorinated water off. This pack will absorb the internal
on the hair. The best action would be heat of the skin.
to rinse the hair before and after ● Take one tablespoon or some
swimming. The hair wash preceding quantity of besan as required by you.
swimming enables the hair follicle to Mix double the quantity of curd and
soak up fresh water that minimises apply the mixture on your face for 20
the intake of chlorine or salt water minutes. It has a cooling and relaxing
that causes intense damage to the effect on the skin. We
A promoter introduces
Samsung’s new
Tristar 7.9 millimetre
thick liquid crystal
display (LCD)
television which the
company plans to
produce in China.
Meanwhile, a Chinese
court recently ordered
South Korean
electronics giant
Samsung to pay
compensation to a
local cellphone
manufacturer Holley
Communications $
7.3 million for alleged
patent infringement. New-age marvel
A swan-shaped
boat is moored at
a pier on Lake
Inawashiro in
Inawashiro. The Here is Denmark’s national symbol the statue of
boat started Little Mermaid which sits on a rock in the
operating from this Copenhagen harbour in Churchill Park with one
spring as arm missing. The sculpture is likely to head for
sightseers have China next year in nearly a century to be exhibited
started visiting in 2010 Shanghai World Expo, while most Danes
the lake. are opposed to its going out of Denmark.
Swan-shaped boat
DUBAI EPISODE -1
T
(and people belonging to individual working in Dubai can use
several other countries) to to sponsor his family. A married man
people want to get a visa to visit Dubai is a can sponsor his wife, his unmarried
little strange. One cannot just daughters and sons who are either
reach Dubai for all apply for a visa as one can under 18 or still studying. An
when one wants to visit most unmarried man can sponsor his
sorts of reasons. other places. Instead one parents. A man can sponsor his
has to be sponsored by a family only if he is earning more than
Here’s what person or organisation in Dh3000 and gets accommodation
Dubai. That person or organisation from his employer/company or if he
happens to those will then be issued the visa. People earns more than Dh4000. A woman
working there can sponsor visas for can sponsor her family only if she is a
travelling relatives and friends. If one gets a professional – a doctor, engineer,
job there, one’s employer will nurse, teacher, etc – but women who
as tourists. sponsor one’s visa and if one is a earn enough are often allowed to
tourist, the hotel one is booked at bring their families in on humanitarian
By Kasturi Rangachari does the needful. grounds.
However, people from America, The government announced some
Europe, etc. can get a visa by just time ago that they were going to raise
asking for it on arrival at Dubai the amount that a person had to earn
airport! to bring his or her family to live with
This is to visit the emirate, but him or her to Dh10,000 because they
felt that the city was getting too printouts and waited with our hearts take-whatever-you-can-get-free style
crowded, putting an enormous in our mouths. We had provided two (this middle-class attitude of mine
pressure on the infrastructure. But copies of each visa printout. In greatly embarrasses my whole
the current financial crisis has put all hubby’s case, both printouts were family!) I said I did – to the great
those plans on hold. faint but legible to a person with surprise of my husband who looked
We were being sponsored (for sharp eyesight. But in mine, my at me as if I had gone crazy. OK,
visitor visas) by our elder son who name was clear in one copy and the breakfast at 5am is crazy, especially
works in Dubai and he had applied visa number in another! I prepared to if one has hogged in the lounge just a
for visas for us. Once he had got point this out to the immigration while earlier, but I was not going to
them, he had scanned them and sent official but it wasn’t necessary. The pass up on any freebies I was
them to us by both e-mail and fax. man just checked our faces against entitled to!
This is what he had done on earlier our passport pictures and stamped
visits too. But for some reason, this our papers and handed them back to
time, the printouts of both the e-mail us. We were through! AIRPORT WELCOME
attachment and the fax just weren’t We still had an hour or so before Once the plane rolled to a stop on
clear enough. So we were rather take-off time and just had the security terra firma, we exited with our hand
nervous. The original would be check to go through. But, because luggage and there, as we came out
waiting for us in Dubai but Indian we were travelling business class, we of the aerobridge, stood a smart,
immigration authorities would have to could use the business class lounge neatly-dressed young lady holding up
accept our visas and let us leave! to wait in comfort. a placard with our names on it. This
When our turn came, we went We went on board and were was the Marhaba service welcoming
together to an immigration counter, served a welcome drink and asked if us to Dubai!
handed over our passports and visa we wanted breakfast. In true Indian The Marhaba (the word means
W
hen Sameera returned from her school that an angel would come to her one day, sit with her,
day, she could hear her mother again find out her grief and with some magic make her
shouting and pleading for mercy, right happy.
from the entrance. She knew her father Sameera entered her home to find one of the
must again be hitting her mother. In fact, violent scenes. Her father was pulling her mother’s
this had become a regular activity in their hair and sometimes hitting her and at other times
house. She was only eight years old, but touching her body with a hot cigarette butt. Her
the circumstances in her house had made her more heart bled. She shouted and started hitting her father
mature than her age. At times, her father would be with her small, timid hands. At this juncture, she was
very loveable, caring and cuddling and speaking not even afraid of what her father would do to her.
softly to them all. At other times, he would suddenly Her father suddenly stopped hitting her mother
get violent. Of course, he rarely troubled her and started laughing. He took her in his lap and
directly, but during such times, her mother would be said sweetly, “Sameera, you are a darling daughter.
his object of hatred and violence. And this was a Do you know, darling, that I am Lord Ram and your
scene she dreaded the most. mother Sita who had run away with Ravana? That is
While she was smaller, she would hope that why I was hitting her. Since you are stopping me, I
either her nana or mama or chacha would come will not do it.”
and save her and her mother. But with experience She literally jumped down from his lap and
and time, she learnt that relatives come and go and reached out to her mother who was lying on the
nobody had a solution to her father’s violence. floor with dishevelled hair. Sameera straightened
While she would go and sit on her mother’s lap later her mother’s sari and took her to the bedroom of
to show her love, her mother’s tears seemed to tell their two-room flat. She got Burnol and applied it on
her that this was their fate and they had to endure her mother’s burns. Later, both of them cuddled and
this all their lives. But her infant mind would always cried for hours.
feel that there was some solution to these problems, If Sameera could hear the cries and wails of her
although she did not know what it was. She hoped mother from so far, she was sure that her neighbours
She defends herself from the onslaught of her husband, must also be hearing them. She wondered why her
suffering from schizophrenia. neighbours never came to help her mother, although
normally they would talk to her so nicely as if they
were her best friends. She felt that the rasogullahs
shared by Mrs Ghosh, their next door neighbour, or
the puran-poli shared by Mrs Kulkarni below, had
no meaning if they could not share her grief. At this
instant she hated them all and was angry at her
mother for even speaking to them.
Although she knew it was of no avail, she was
again asking her mother why they don’t leave the
house and run away somewhere. Amidst tears, her
mother asked her where they could go. One by
one, Sameera started suggesting all the relatives’
names. Her mother kept giving her some reason
or the other why they couldn’t go to those
people’s houses. This questioning had become a
routine and so had the answers. But today Sameera
made one more suggestion.
She told her mother, “Mummy, we will run away
interest to you, so I have
just kept it.” Now that
Mala was a pragmatic
SHORT
STORY
and you can work as an ayah in my school. My lady Piyush always valued her judgement.
teacher is very angry with the present one. We can He read this letter from a girl, Sameera, and
then stay in the school. Since I always get the instantly liked the girl. Although it was not
highest marks, my principal loves me a lot. She will strictly a part of his duty, such cases always
give you the job.” What her mother could not tell her aroused his interest, for he was also a
was that she was qualified enough to be a teacher writer. Moreover, as DCP he could help
herself. But she was not allowed to work and that such cases. Mala must have sensed his
she didn’t have the courage to stay alone in this interest in them.
society which was full of wolves.
O
Sameera remained dissatisfied. Although her n first thoughts, he thought of sending
mother had accepted all the domestic violence, she the girl and the lady to an NGO
could not. She wanted to do something for her home, but then, on second thoughts,
mother, to save her from all these problems. She was decided to meet Sameera himself.
not able to digest why her mother wanted to After the VIP visit, he decided to see her on a
continue staying with such a devil. Sunday evening. He decided to dress up simply and
not as a police officer. He also preferred the Maruti
S
he switched on the TV. There was some news car to the police Jeep and reaching there all alone.
regarding a boy who had bravely run away When Piyush knocked at the door, a little girl
from the clutches of a gang of kidnappers. The opened it and asked, “Whom do you want to meet?
kidnappers had locked him up in a bathroom of one My father is not at
of the general class coaches from Kolkata and were home and we do not
taking him to Mumbai. The boy had started shouting entertain visitors.” He
seeing some policemen at a big station despite did not feel like
knowing the fact that the gang was sitting near the revealing his true
door of the toilet. The policemen were alert and identity, since he
sensitive to his call and had caught three members would not get to the
of the gang and also rescued him. Sameera root of the problem if
suddenly got an idea. She decided to write a letter he did so. He instantly
to the head of the police, DCP Ashthana, whose decided to pose as an
interview was being shown on television. She old friend of
scribbled: Sameera’s father,
Respected Ashthana Uncle, whose name Yash
Uncle, I am Sameera and stay in your city. I am Mishra was written on
studying in St Michael High School in Std: 3. I see the name plate at the Cleanse your face twice daily with a
you catching so many thieves and goondas every entrance of the flat. good cleanser. Give your body skin a
day. Uncle, can you please save me and my The curly hair and full moisture treatment.
Nutrition plays a big part in improving
mummy. Uncle, my papa is a devil. He hits my fair round face of the the condition of your skin. Spring
mother all the time. Today he has burnt her with little girl had an time is time when fresh, green
cigarette butt at many places. Uncle, I have tried innocent beauty in vegetables and fruits come in handy
for maintaining a glowing skin.
telling all my relatives and all my neighbours also them and the In case you are habitually using a
know the problem. But nobody helps us. expressive almond- foundation, then choose the light-
If you help us Uncle, I will give you my doll, like eyes seemed to weight one with SPF protection of
minimum 15.
Pinky. I normally do not let even Tanisha and Anita tell a hundred stories. Spring season triggers many
touch her, although they are my best friends. Hearing the noise, her allergies. A cool compress before
mother also came applying cosmetics can help prevent
Waiting for you, minor allergies.
Your small friend, near the door and, Use Vitamin E oil before you sleep.
Sameera. fearing that her This will freshen the skin which has
grown dull after winter.
Piyush Asthana was in a great rush in the office daughter must have
that day. There was a VIP in the town and he had to said something
take care of the entire bandobast. His steno, Mala, awkward,
brought the dakpad with the important letters. She immediately
also handed him one letter saying, “Although this apologised and
letter is not exactly important, I thought it may be of asked Piyush who he
W
hile her mother went inside to get a cup of with the proposal from Yash’s family for Yash. He
tea, Sameera sat on her cycle looking had told me that I will not be allowed to work and I
apprehensively at Piyush. She was biting her had agreed. It was all right in the beginning but then
lower lips. It was evident she was not used to having these dark shades of his personality started
guests. He wanted to be friends with her and started appearing. At times he is so soft, so loving that I feel
asking her questions to which she was replying in as if I am in a heavenly bliss, but then at other times,
monosyllables. Since Sameera was holding a doll he is a real devil — hitting me, cursing me,
tightly, he understood that this must be the doll threatening me. Sometimes, he gets illusions that he
Pinky, about whom she had mentioned in is some famous personality. Actually, I am
her letter. He asked her if she would give yet to understand his behaviour. I just don’t
him the doll, to which her reaction was
Uncle, can know where I have gone wrong. I cannot
sudden. She shouted, “I will not even allow you please go anywhere because my parents are
you to touch it.” He looked at the doll. The save me and dead and my brother is in Dubai.”
doll had blue eyes, one of which was my mummy. Piyush decided to dig further, but there
broken. However, the hair was neatly Uncle, my was no reason for Yash’s unhappiness. No
done in a ponytail. Her pink dress was papa is a devil. affair, no other vices. He decided to talk to
also very beautiful and neat. Piyush asked Jharna, his doctor wife, regarding the
her why she wouldn’t part with it to which
He hits my problem and requested Mrs Mishra and
she shouted again, “Because you will hit it mother all the Sameera to keep his visit a secret at
and pull her hair.” He asked her if anyone time. Today he present, since he did not want them to
hits her too to which she replied, “No, but has burnt her know that there was no Piyush Tripathi, a
my papa hits my mummy.” with a classmate of Yash. He also decided that it
Mrs Mishra entered the room with some cigarette butt. would not be correct to reveal his true
snacks and tea and must have overheard identity now.
their conversation, for she said, “Bhaiya, When he gave the details of the case to
please do not pay attention to this girl.” But, being a Jharna, who was a psychiatrist, she immediately told
writer, he was quite observant and immediately saw him that it appeared to be a case of schizophrenia.
the cut on her left hand and swollen right hand. He Since Jharna saw Piyush’s interest in the case, she
decided to take it up herself. She asked Mrs Mishra
about the details telephonically and these
discussions further confirmed her doubts. Her
husband’s case was a paranoid schizophrenia,
always suspicious of others, and had grand schemes
of persecution at the root of his behaviour. He would
have hallucinations quite often. Since he had had
this problem for long which had remained
undiagnosed, the treatment would be difficult but not
impossible. Before starting the treatment it was
The violent necessary for Jharna to meet Mr Yash Mishra at
behaviour of her least once.
father is wrecking
the innocent life of
When Piyush and Jharna reached Sameera’s
Sameera. house, they introduced themselves correctly this time.
Mrs Mishra and Sameera were surprised, but Yash Theirs seemed to be a completely different home this
got extremely angry with Mrs Mishra for revealing time from Piyush’s visit about 10 months ago. The
so much to strangers. He got violent suddenly and doors were open when they reached. Yash was on
was about to hit Mrs Mishra right in front of them — all fours as a horse on the floor and Sameera was
but they intervened and Piyush told him sternly that sitting on his back riding the “horse.” Mrs Mishra
he was the chief of police and in case he was laughing sitting on a sofa watching the father
misbehaved, he would put him behind bars. It was and daughter play. She was wearing a nice salwar
one of the rare times when he enjoyed using his suit and her head was not covered this time.
powers. Convinced of the family’s happiness, Piyush and
Jharna were about to leave, when Sameera saw
M
eekly, Yash agreed to start taking medicines them and ran to Piyush shouting, “Police uncle,
as suggested by Jharna. She also put him police uncle.” She was no longer an apprehensive
under regular counselling sessions. The and silent person, but a bubbly and naughty girl.
initial response of Yash was of reluctance, but then, She told him a hundred and one stories in the next
seeing the benefits, he started cooperating. During 10 minutes. They learnt that her mother had taken
the counselling sessions, Jharna had noted that Yash up teaching again. Mr and Mrs Mishra thanked
also loved his wife and daughter a lot. It was his them profusely. They made them stay back for
problem which had made him what he was. He dinner and Piyush and Jharna thoroughly enjoyed
understood how difficult it must be for his family to the family atmosphere in their house. When they
bear him. With strong will-power, regular were about to leave, Sameera quietly came and
medicines, counselling sessions and an gave a gift to Piyush and asked him to promise that
understanding family, Yash started showing an he would always keep it with him wherever he went.
improvement very soon. When Jharna informed When Piyush reached home, he opened the box.
Piyush about his progress, he decided to visit the It contained Sameera’s favourite doll, Pinky. He knew
family once again. that this doll would always occupy a special place,
They reached their home suddenly one day. not only in his showcase, but also in his heart. We
STAY FIT &
BEAUTIFUL WHILE
TRAVELLING
Healthy practices on the go.
By Suman Bajpai
I
shape’ while away from home.
Each kind of travel – business,
vacation, or personal – has its
own stresses and temptations.
Plan ahead and make sensible
choices while on the road. Be
realistic. Don’t try to lose weight.
Instead, try not to gain any. Don’t
aspire to a greater level of
fitness. Instead, try not to lose what
you have already achieved.
Travelling takes its toll on the
body, especially if you are travelling
abroad. Jet lag has adverse effects
on the body. Try and eat as much
fresh food as possible on your trip.
Eat fresh fruits and vegetables
throughout the journey. Apples,
bananas, unsalted peanuts, dried
apricots, etc. have the nutrients that
are necessary for your body and
helps in keeping you alert and active.
Pack nutritious food for the road
which includes water, green tea,
almonds, apples, bananas, and
juices. Avoid unhealthy high-fat foods
on airplanes and at business
meetings by carrying a couple of your
favourite types of simple healthy it. Spend waiting time walking. Take
snacks like one or two handfuls of the stairs instead of the lift.
mixed nuts and/or dried fruit. Travel with a ‘maintenance
Don’t get tempted by the mindset’. Stick to your plan, and
sumptuous food of the hotel, look for you’ll return home without gaining
things like oatmeal, wholewheat any fat or losing any fitness.
toast, fresh fruit and low-fat yogurt.
If there is a grill, you might be able to
get an egg white-based omelette SKIN CARE
stuffed with veggies.If you know you It is important to maintain your
won’t be able to avoid the sweets, beauty and look great while you
pack a bowl and some wholegrain are travelling. For that, pack
cereal. cleansing products which you
Don’t wait too long between can use regularly to clean
meals or you may find that you are off the dust and dirt.
too hungry to make sensible choices. You can also
You might find yourself eating take with you some
handfuls of chips or several pieces refreshing wipes to remove the dirt
of bread before your meal even just by a wipe at any time. Carry with PACK NUTRITIOUS
arrives. Drink a glass of water. Order you moisturising cream and apply it
a soup or salad to begin your meal. before you leave your boarding
FOOD FOR THE ROAD
Eat slowly. Let water be your main place. You can skip the foundations WHICH INCLUDES
beverage. Carry a bottle of water
around with you during the day. It will
for the make-up and just use
moisturisers to get your skin wet.
WATER, GREEN TEA,
help you stay hydrated; you will feel Avoid heavy make-up while ALMONDS, APPLES,
less empty and less tempted by
unhealthy snacks.
travelling as stuffy air may make you
get tired soon if you have on heavy
BANANAS, AND JUICES.
make-up. So you can do minimal your hair wet and avoid the dry hair in
make-up, so your skin does not get the bright sun.
THE HURDLES affected too much. Try not to apply Your eyes may be strained due to
After nutrition, simple laziness is bright-coloured nail polish which may bright lights or pollution in the air. So
the next hurdle you have to chip off soon and give an unfinished keep eyedrops with you to clean your
overcome while travelling. It’s easy look very quickly. Skip long-lasting eyes whenever required. Whether it’s
to talk yourself into skipping a lipsticks. Rather, you can apply light sub-zero temperature or tropical
workout if the hotel gym shades of lip stain. weather, it always makes sense to
doesn’t have the Apply good condi- pack your sun block. Wiping your
equipment you’re used tioners to your hair face and neck with a bit of cotton
to. Schedule exercise before you start wool soaked in a gentle cleanser will
into your day just as you the journey. The leave you feeling refreshed and
would at home. If you conditioners can squeaky clean.
exercise early in the day, help in maintaining If you can sleep during your
you won’t have to worry journey, use a little eye cream under
about fitting it in later your eyes and a small amount of light
when you really would night cream. This will ensure that
rather take a nap. your skin is refreshed and relaxed
Schedule your workouts when you wake up.
with as much dedication To avoid looking like you just
as you schedule your woke up, wear fabrics that don’t
business meetings. wrinkle easily. This will allow you to
When you book your emerge from any airport looking fresh
hotel, make sure you and rested, not frustrated and
have access to an frumpy. Because you’ll be on your
adequate hotel gym or nearby fitness feet before, during and after your
establishment. In that way, you can business matters, you’ll want a pair of
continue with your regular exercise shoes that scream comfort for your
routine. Take advantage of whatever tootsies. Avoid wearing your social
time slot is available for exercise business heels and fancy boots
during your travels. And don’t miss when you’re not on the job. We
TRAVEL THROUGH
REIMS
rance has a beautiful mix of
F
natural beauty through the
countryside and a cache of
man-made artistic paintings,
sculptures, buildings and
other artifacts right in the
If Paris is capital – Paris. But the beauty
of France is not limited to just
charming, there’s Paris or even Cannes – these
might be more written about
much more and visited by more tourists but it is
worth any traveller’s while to think of
enchantment destinations beyond these while in
that part of the world.
beyond its bounds. Reims (pronounced as if in rhyme
with chance, if you get the ‘n’ as a
By Ameeta Sharma soft sound or think of the Hindi tele-
serial Saans and then say “Raans”) is
less than 90 miles east-north-east of
Paris and was originally founded
during the Roman Empire. It is
approachable by road or by rail.
Q&
a loofah to get the blood circulation a facial or make my at home facial kit?
going well – and enjoy your pam - Well, it is always possible to select
pering throughout. a readymade product that is almost
My dandruff is really bothering me. as good as a tailor made one just for
After using home products it reduces you! If you are dusky complexioned,
and then again comes back, especi- Do anti-wrinkle creams really work? pick up something that is a purifying
ally in winter. What do I do? My mother is 46 and recently became mask with if you are over the age of
Using some products – home- aware of fine lines. She wants to be 32 select a product that promises
made or cosmetic company-products assured before buying all the skin tightening. Selecting a product
– reduces the dandruff and then it expensive creams and lotions. should be on your age and skin
comes back, probably because you Yes, they do work, but on the requirements. Consult the therapist
stop using the right products and go other hand they might not be totally to ask what are the benefits of the
back to a wrong choice. Certain effective on your mother’s skin as it product and you can select more
A
products like curds is difficult to use depends on the condition of the than one to use it alternatively to give
in winter because it is cold and you individual. She must try the product best results.
do not wash your hair that often in for a minimum number of weeks
winter and build up on scalp prescribed before deciding whether it
happens. Do consult a dermatologist suits her or not. These are not magic I am a total hair colour junkie at age
to confirm you do not have a fungal potions but do fill out the fine wrinkles 26. I spend a lot of money on my hair
infection or some other problem. But a little for a smoother appearance. colour and care. What is the latest
be consistent in using the right international trend about hair colour?
product to keep it under control not Many international colour crazes
just to treat symptoms and going I like to experiment with my make-up do not work with our skin tone, so
back to improper product use. and hairstyles. Sometimes what is in whatever you select should be
fashion does not suit me, but I have suitable to your skin colour and your
already invested in it so I continue to hairstyle as well as your lifestyle.
I want a spa-like pampering weekend use it and hate it. What is wrong with Shades of chocolate and wine are
at home. How do I plan the whole two me? said to be big this year and even
– to three-hours event for myself and Actually nothing is wrong with you. classic black (though that looks too
my sister as we are low on money You like to experiment which is good stark). The heavy streaks seem to be
but high on love? but you do not have to follow every phasing out though it will always
When two girls are doing a beauty trend to be fashionable. You need to have its own followers.
S
hilpa drummed her fingers on the table. The time to cook or look after a house. You know my
diamonds on her fingers shone as her hands hectic schedule.
moved. She was frowning. ‘Why am I feeling “Besides, ma, I cannot spare a couple of years of
so depressed?’ she asked herself. She had my life at this stage creating a family and looking
everything that money could buy – a lovely after them.”
house, two chauffeur-driven cars, name and “The boy should match our Shilpa in education,
position. Yet there was something lacking. looks and salary,” her parents had insisted. They
‘A personal life,’ she muttered to herself, had started looking for a match when she was 25
‘Someone to give me a big hug when I come home.’ and now, a decade later, they had still not found a
She was in office from early mornings till late suitable boy.
evenings, working and earning more money. She Shilpa had climbed the ladder of success and
was always on the move, always having her bags reached the top.
packed to fly off at a moment’s notice, whenever ‘Oh, but it is so lonely at the top,’ she said to
duty called. herself now. ‘Have I missed the bus?’
Her ambition, her career, always won over her Then she called out to her secretary ”Cancel all
parents’ insistence on marriage and family. my appointments for a week and book me a nice
“Ma, papa, where do I have time for all that?” beach house in Goa,” she ordered.
she had said to her parents umpteen times ever since Early the next morning, even before the golden
she had completed her MBA and landed an sun made its appearance, Shilpa was out on the
excellent job. “I hardly have time to eat, leave alone beach, the cool breeze playing with her hair and the
soft sand trickling between her toes.
So engrossed was she in her thoughts that she did
not see the pony cart speedily coming her way.
“Hey,” shouted the cart driver just as a pair of
male arms snatched her to safety.
L
ooking into the warmest brown eyes she had
ever seen, Shilpa just muttered a “thanks” and
pushed away.
That evening she met the man again and
exchanged smiles. In the days that followed they met
several times as he too was in a similar position as
she. Pramod too was a top executive in his firm, one
foot in India and the other anywhere in
the world that his business took him.
He, too, was dissatisfied despite all the
worldly goods, and had come to Goa
for a short break.
“Sailing in the same boat,” they said
together and smiled. They had a lot in
common and they spoke endlessly over
business matters, political topics and other
topics of common interest.
But on the personal front they retained
their mysteries.
Shilpa returned home to Mumbai and
picked up the strands of her life again.
She had a whirlwind of meetings, of tours and
conferences. But somewhere at the back of her mind
was Pramod and his warm brown eyes, his attractive
SHORT
STORY
looks.
A routine medical check-up told her that stress
and a hectic schedule, together with an unbalanced
diet, had taken its toll leading to complications. The
ubiquitous high BP was making an appearance in
her life. Slight sugar problems, and more worrying
was the lethargy of her ovaries.
“Shilpa,” said her doctor, “if you want to marry
and start a family, I suggest you do it right away. I
am not saying that it is not possible but at your age
it is difficult and there are risks involved.”
Her mother too voiced her worries.
“Shilpa, there is an eligible man who is quite your father and came to pay my
ready to marry you,” she said, “but his position and condolences. I was in the USA, otherwise I would
income are not on a par with yours. Is it okay?” have come earlier,” he said . As Shilpa introduced
him to her mother, she could feel the vibrations. Her
S
hilpa shook her head, knowing that she could mother was matchmaking in her mind.
not compromise. She needed to respect the man “No, ma,” said Shilpa. “I know nothing about
she married. And respect came from position, him. He may be married and, anyway, he may not
from income and qualifications, she thought. ‘What be interested in me that way. Besides, I cannot offer
about love?’ whispered her heart. She had no time him a child because of my condition and no man
to socialise or meet someone she could fall in love will like that.”
with. There was just no time. It was office, Yet, when Pramod invited her, she went
office, work and more work. That’s why “Shilpa,” said to a film, to a club, anywhere and
she was where she was. Career-wise on her doctor, “if everywhere.
top of the ladder but personally at the you want to One fine evening, over a cup of coffee,
bottom. marry and start Pramod went down on his knees and
A couple of months later, Shilpa’s world a family, romantically popped the question.
came crashing down. Her beloved father, I suggest you “Shilpa, I love you, will you marry me?”
her support and guide, met with an do it right he burst.
accident which had been fatal. away. I am not As she hesitated, he misunderstood and
Her mother was inconsolable. They had saying that it is continued, “Think about it. Consult your
always been together, done everything not possible but mother. I will call you tomorrow.”
together, going on picnics, and to films, at your age it is Shilpa spent a sleepless night. What
dramas and parties. They had led an active difficult and was she to do? She definitely wanted to
social life, especially after his retirement. there are risks say yes, but she had to be fair and tell him
Shilpa’s mother sold off the beautiful involved.” about her age and her medical condition.
apartment, the cars and all the luxuries and “The doctor has not said that you can’t
prepared herself to migrate to their village have a baby,” scolded her mother. “Why
home where family servants and warm neighbours are you imagining things? She has only said that
would keep her company and look after her in the there are risks. And you re not an old woman.”
evening of her life. “Ma, I am 35,” Shilpa replied. “If I had met
Shilpa insisted that her mother stay with her. Pramod five years ago, I would have had no
“But, Shilpa dear, what will I do the whole day? hesitation in saying yes.”
Your bungalow is too big and there are no
T
neighbours with whom I can socialise. No, I would he next day, Pramod rang her up and invited
rather go to my village.” her to his house. “I have something to confess,”
On Shilpa’s insistence and a bout of tears, she he said ominously creating panic waves in
decided to stay a month at her house. Shilpa. Now, what did that mean?
“Then I will go to the village,” she declared firmly. As she entered the grand house, she felt that it
A few days later Shilpa was pleasantly surprised was cold and not very friendly.
when Pramod landed up on her doorstep. Pramod came, a bit hesitantly and sat near her.
“Hello,” he greeted her anxiously, “I read about “Shilpa, I have kept my personal life a secret from
becoming their Bali ka bakra. for him. I think of him on every 1st
My telephone bell rang. My friend April (Fool’s Day). He has played a
Preeti was on the line. After the usual big prank on all his family members
greeting, she said; “Praful is no more.” and friends. He has set out on an
My immediate reaction was “Preeti, do eternal journey... never to return.
not play such a serious joke. At least — Ulrica Pinto, Mumbai.
definitely not with Praful’s life.” I
could not believe it. She confirmed the
A miserable joke on 1st April news by giving further details about
Praful, Preeti and I along with what happened. I had to believe Preeti.
Has something
some more friends, used to attend the She spoke to me convincingly: “Why happened in your life
same tuition classes. We were don’t you believe me? I am not joking. that has left an indelible
studying in an exclusively girls Forget the fact that today is Ist April impression on your mind? Some
school and therefore mingling with (i.e. fool’s day).” experience that gladdens your heart
boys was a ‘no’ ‘no’ us. But Praful’s I could understand that her news or which makes you shudder with
nature was different. He was a nice was correct, but Praful had expired. I pain or embarrassment even after
easy-going guy. I never felt odd in wondered how could a young 16-year- years! Why not share it with the
his company. Ours was a healthy and old boy, who had just finished SSC readers of Woman’s Era? All
normal friendship. Our birthdays fell board exams and was free of all published incidents will be paid
in the same month. So, we have been worries, and who had no sickness, could Rs 200. Send your entries to:
wishing each other for five years. suddenly die of cardiac arrest. I could THE INCIDENT I CANNOT FORGET
On the 1st of April, I was well not get the answer to my questions.
E-3 Jhandewala Estate, New Delhi-110055.
prepared to counter-attack all those Every year, when I think of that 1st Womansera.com
who thought they could play a silly April, I remember Praful. His thoughts
prank on me. I carefully analysed always leave me very sad. Death came Name:
every word uttered about me whether to him unexpectedly. I remembered Mobile:
it was a pun or a taunt to avoid him on my birthday and I shed a tear E-mail:
A
are venturing out and
holding responsible
positions in the work area,
the need for travelling
alone for office work or for
leisure has increased.
They want to break the
monotony of the daily
routine and get out of the
stress and work pressure for some
days. They want to be on their own,
enjoying every bit of the moment and
pleasure of being alone. For these
women, travelling alone is also a
thrill, a rush of excitement and
empowerment of being completely
independent and in control of their
own situations.
If a woman travels with her family,
she is generally managing the family
THE LONE
TRAVELLER
New highs come for solo
women on the go.
By Suman Bajpai
and does not get time to enjoy
herself. In such scenarios, women
are more concerned about whether
the kids have eaten properly or are
seated comfortably. So special
packages for women relieve them of
such family tensions and they can
enjoy themselves.
Women are looking forward to a
trip where their phone won’t ring and
there’s no e-mails to check at all. No
deadlines, no rush. A complete
vacation for the body, mind and soul.
More and more women are
discovering the adventure and
excitement of travelling solo. “I didn’t
know solo travelling could be so
much fun until I started going on
business trips. I started to enjoy them
and today I actually look forward to
them,” said an executive Pallavi provides a videophone in each room
Mehta. to check from inside who's at the THE MENU
The temptation of travelling alone door. All calls are screened.
offers countless possibilities and The Inter continental in South OFFERS SPECIAL
opportunities for adventure and is Delhi offers specific rooms with HEALTH-
becoming more popular than ever special touches like personal kits and
before – and the number of women magazines. Their CCTV cameras are ORIENTED
opting for solo trips in recent years placed in strategic locations in the DELICACIES AND
has increased even more sharply public areas of the hotel and calls are
than the number of men. Around 45 monitored by their operators. The LOW CALORIE
per cent of solo travellers are now Park, New Delhi, ensures that calls OPTIONS
women, a sign of the times are screened, VIP treatment is
undoubtedly, and an encouraging meted, rooms are near elevators and, KEEPING
one for those with a thirst for perhaps in the near future, a floor WOMEN IN
adventure but a fear of the big might be dedicated to women
unknown insecurity With the number travellers. MIND.
of women business travellers Many hotel rooms have been
shooting up in recent years, the sensitised to women’s needs – with
hospitality industry in India has begun provisions for sunscreen lotions,
to catch up with international trends – moisturisers, deep cleansing milk,
sensitising their services to meet the scrubs, soft textured towels, satin
women travellers' specific needs. bathrobes and silk slippers. There
Leading Indian hotels are offering are skirt hangers in the cupboards,
exclusive wings, separate floors and
specialised services to protect and
pamper them – a new concept in the
country.
ONLY WOMEN-FLOORS
Keeping these and other concerns
in mind, hotel chains like the Marriot,
Hilton and ITC Welcome group have
introduced women-only floors. “Some
of the properties have special floors
only for women where even the
housekeeping and room service staff
are women. Sometimes, the hotel
leaves behind little gifts in the room
to make women feel special; the soft
touches do a great deal in making
you feel safe,” says a spokesperson vanity mirrors for make-up, flowers,
of the Marriott Group of Hotels. international women's magazines
The ITC hotel chain, for instance, and a well-designed cosmetics boxes
has Eve Floors – floors dedicated to in some of the hotel rooms.
women where men are simply not Women travelling alone are often
allowed. The lifts don't stop at the given rooms close to the elevator so
floor unless you swipe the lift board that they don’t have to walk down a
with your room key card. Even hotel dark corridor in case of a momentary
staff such as butlers and power shut-down. If this isn’t your
housekeepers are women on these preference, advise the hotel in
floors. The Taj Mahal Hotel in New advance. Some chains also have a
Delhi has a separate ladies' wing. It person from the guest relations office
also employs women butlers or check with each female guest on her
chauffeurs who assist guests while own to be certain that she feels
shopping or travelling in the city. The comfortable and to let her know that
ITC Maratha, Mumbai, which has 18 the hotel is aware that she is by
rooms exclusively for women, also herself in a room.
Travel tips for women travellers
Don’t wear clothes that are not to take part. You can watch
revealing or very body-hugging. It from a distance and move on when
is best to cover yourself up to avoid it has passed you.
unwanted attention. Do not panic. Try and gain
Don’t try to be friendly with control of an unpleasant situation in
people unnecessarily. Keep a a calm and decisive manner.
The menu offers special health- distance from men. Some people However, if you feel in extreme
oriented delicacies and low calorie might just take it in the wrong sense danger, do not hesitate to draw
options keeping women in mind. and not like it. attention to yourself.
There is a ladies-only lounge. And for While roaming on beaches, it is Always carry a personal safety
that there is no need to step off the best to be clothed. Indian society device with you. A whistle or an
exclusive floor. Ladies can also does not allow people to be in their alarm may provide the extra time
indulge in beauty treatments and spa swimwear even in beaches. Wear needed to escape to safety. Carry
facilities which are available at a a cotton pant and a tee shirt. all your necessities with you.
discount. To ensure optimum While in a pub, Feminine hygiene products are
security, most hotels these days at discotheque or sometimes difficult or expensive to
least offer free pick-up and drop-off bar, it is acquire. Carry supplies to last the
services from the airport and rooms advisable to entire trip.
are offered near well-lit elevators take a friend Don’t carry too much of luggage.
where guards are present. along. Do not Flight delays and late-night
Realising this standard shift, travel venture there alone arrivals need planning. Keeping
agencies and even other countries’ as it may not be very emergency numbers handy, asking
tourism boards are doling out special safe. If you happen to the hotel for an airport pick-up, and
packages just to cater to these come across a street messaging the cab number to a
womenfolk. Now women are more party or a festive contact in the city, are good rules
confident to venture out on their own. procession, it is best to keep you safe.
the shores of my native place, my joy handed over the bundles safely. I felt
knew no bounds. I picked up my travel very grateful to him. I will never
bag and got down hurriedly without forget his act of kindness!
realising that I had left behind the — Nirmala V. Rao, Mumbai.
bundles of answer sheets in the boat.
That evening I met an old friend of
mine, who was also a teacher. Casually
she asked me, “What is the quota of
Every one of us has,
answer papers for assessment?” A bolt sometime or other in
Selfless Service from the blue! Then I remembered that one’s life, received help,
In the nascent stage of my I had forgotten the bundles in that boat. guidance, sympathy, understanding
teaching career of 38 years, I was I just gave her one word answer, and love from some fellow human
staying alone in a rented room. Every “seven”. So many thoughts engulfed being. Can you recall any such event
or occasion in your life, when you
Saturday I used to visit my parents my mind. If I would not get the received such consideration and for
at a distance of nearly 36 kilometres bundles, I would not only lose my job which you are grateful? Each
by crossing the river Sharavati, as but also the headmaster would give a published anecdote will be awarded a
there was no bridge over it in those bad remark on my discharge certificate. prize of Rs 200. Send your
days. It was 11 p.m. and I could not get contribution to:
Navaratri holidays had begun in sleep. I heard a knock on the door. GRATEFULLY YOURS
the month of October. I was going to There stood the contractor of the boat
E-3 Jhandewala Estate, New Delhi-110055.
my native place with a travel bag full service with a bag full of my seven Womansera.com
of clothes. I had kept seven bundles bundles of answer sheets. Tears of joy
Name:
of answer papers of my students in a rolled down from my eyes. Though the
Mobile:
separate bag which I had kept near contractor was tired he took all the
E-mail:
my travel bag. As the boat touched trouble to come to my house and
Longer
allurement, and
adding to the
facial beauty.
& Sexier
Capping the long,
beauteous hair
INGREDIENTS:
1 Pack of Knorr Chinese Hakka
Baisakhi is a time
for celebration, time
to entertain
guests who may
come along. We
bring you three
meals with different
flavours to savour
during the festivity.
By Roma Ghosh Pineapple fish
BAISAKHI
festivity
PINEAPPLE FISH fish pieces a few at a time. Turn
the fish pieces once or twice so INDIAN BREAD
INGREDIENTS:
6-8 pieces of rahu fish
that both the sides are golden
brown. Remove and keep aside.
STUFFED WITH
4 slices of pineapple
1 large sized onion – sliced
In the same pan, fry the onion RICE
slices till golden brown. Lower the (Chawal parantha)
100 gm of aam papad – cut into heat and mix in bay leaf and the
cubes spices and fry till a fine aroma INGREDIENTS:
4-5 tbsp of mustard oil rises – this should take 2-3
1 bay leaf For the parantha:
minutes. Mix in the tomato puree
2 chillies 1 cup of wheat flour
and the pineapple slices which
1/ tsp of haldi powder 1 tbsp of ghee
2 have been cut into small pieces.
1 tsp of red chilli powder oil or ghee for frying
Also add half cup of water and
3 tbsp of tomato puree salt to taste
bring the gravy to boil. Mix in the
salt to taste fish pieces and aam papad pieces For the filling:
METHOD and continue to cook for a few 1 cup of cooked rice
Sprinkle salt and half the minutes till the gravy begins to 2 tsp of oil
quantity of the haldi powder over thicken. You could adjust the 1/ tsp of red chillies powder or
2
the fish pieces and leave aside for consistency of the gravy to your more
10 minutes. Heat the mustard oil choice. Serve with chawal ka 3-4 pinches of aamchur powder
in a non stick pan and pan fry the parantha. 1 tsp of roasted jeera powder
METHOD
To prepare the filling: Heat
the oil and and fry the rice adding
all the spices. Fry on low heat for
2-3 minutes. Keep aside. The
filling should be spicy and tasty.
Sift the flour, salt and ghee and
add just enough water to knead
into a dough. Divide the dough
into 3-4 portions. Roll out each
portion into a small sized chappati
. Hold this chappati in your palm
and keep a portion of the HEALTHY the grated lauki and stir gently so
that the lauki begins to mix into
prepared filling in the centre of the
chappati and close it from all ends SNACK the rava/sooji. Beat the curd and
also mix into the rava mixture.
to obtain a round ball. Roll out this (lauki and rava snack) Add the spices and add oil a little
ball into a thick chappati and fry at a time while adding each of the
INGREDIENTS:
this parantha with oil or ghee on ingredients. Cook on low flame,
1 cup sooji
low fire till crispy and brown. stirring all the time till most of the
1 cup rava – broken rice
Prepare the other paranthas in water is evaporated. Bake in a pre
2 cups of grated lauki
the same way. heated oven at 160 degree C for
2 cups of dahi
Indian bread stuffed with rice 3/ spoon of red chillies powder
4 atleast an hour till the top of the
1/ tsp of amchur powder cake is golden brown. Remove
4
3-4 tbsp of oil from the oven, cut into squares
salt to taste and serve as a snack.
METHOD
Dry roast the
sooji and the rava CHICKEN IN
till a light golden
brown. In the same PEAS
kadhai, once the INGREDIENTS:
sooji and rava are a 11/2 cups of coarsely grated
light golden brown, add peas
3 tbsp of oil
1/ tsp of garam masala
Healthy snack 2
1/ tsp of red chillies powder
4
2 tsp of lemon juice
400 gm of boneless chicken
pieces
salt to taste
For the marinade:
2 tsp of ginger garlic paste
3 tbsp of dahi
1 tsp of green chillies paste
salt to taste
METHOD
Mix all the ingredients for the
marinade and marinate the
chicken pieces in this for 1 hour.
Heat the oil in a kadhai and cook
PINEAPPLE
DELIGHT
INGREDIENTS:
For one serving:
1 slice of pineapple
3-4 tbsp of kiwi preserve – you
can use any other fruits sauce
or preserve
red grapes
3-4 tbsp of oil for frying the bhindi METHOD For the filling:
1 tsp of garam masala powder Place the pineapple slice on a 1 cup of desiccated coconut
1/ tsp of jeera powder 50 gm of date palm jaggery
2 serving plate. Spread the kiwi
1/ tsp of red chillies powder 3 tbsp of condensed milk
2 preserve over and garnish with
salt to taste the red grapes and serve it at METHOD
For the filling: once. This is a refreshing desert To prepare the filling: Heat a
150 gm of grated cheese and can be prepared with little kadhai and melt the jaggery over
2 tsp of oil time. low fire. Mix in the desiccated
1/ tsp of jeera powder coconut and keep stirring on low
2
1/ tsp of amchur powder fire. Mix in the condensed milk
4
1/ tsp of red chillies powder
4 BENGALI and continue to stir and cook and
allow the mixture to dry up. Put
salt to taste
METHOD
SWEET off the heat and keep aside.
To make the dough: Mix
Wash the bhindis, dry with a (Puli petha) together the rice flour, sugar and
napkin and cut the top edges. INGREDIENTS: ghee. Mix with your fingers to
Keep the bhindis whole, making 200 gm of rice flour resemble bread crumbs. Add just
a slit in the centre and removing 1 tsp of powdered sugar enough water to knead into a
as many seeds as you can. 3 tbsp of ghee dough.
To prepare the filling: heat the oil or ghee for frying Keep beating the dough with
oil, and fry the paneer adding all 300 ml of sugar syrup your fingers so that it is pliable.
the spices. Fry on low fire for 2-3 Tri-layered pineapple delight
With your palms roll out the entire
minutes. Remove and keep dough into a long roll. Place this
aside to cool. roll on a rolling board and cut half
Fill each of the bhindis with the inch sized pieces. Roll each of
paneer filling. Heat oil in a non these pieces into a circular round
stick pan and fry the bhindis ball.
over low fire. Cover with a Roll out each of these balls
lid and stir gently from into a two inch circular
time to to. Mix in all chappati. Hold the small
the spices and chappati in the left palm
sprinkle over the and place a portion of
bhindis and cover the filling in the centre.
with a lid and cook Fold up the sides and
so that the masala make a small round
is mixed into the cake. Prepare all the cakes
bhindis. Cook till the in this way. Heat ghee or oil
bhindis are tender. and fry over medium heat for 3-4
Remove and serve hot. minutes and then reduce the heat
SALT PEPPER
TOFU AND
VEGETABLES
INGREDIENTS:
200 gm of tofu
200 florets of broccoli
50 gm of cherry tomatoes
3 tsp of olive oil
BREAD BIRYANI and the ginger garlic paste. .
Cook on low fire for 3-4 minutes
INGREDIENTS: add 2-3 tsp of water if required.
1 tsp of pepper powder
6-8 slices of bread cut into Cook till a fine aroma rises from
salt to taste
quarters the cooked spices.
METHOD ghee or oil for deep frying the Now mix in the biryani masala
Cut the broccoli in florets, the bread pieces and the lemon juice cook for 1
tofu in cubes and keep aside. 1 medium sized chopped onions minute more. Add the fried bread
Heat the oil. Fry the tofu for 2 2 chopped tomatoes pieces. Toss gently and serve at
minutes in oil and remove and 1 cup of green peas once before the bread pieces get
keep aside. In the same pan add 1 cup of corn niblets soggy.
the broccoli and fry till a light 3 tbsp butter
golden brown in colour adding salt 1 tsp of cumin seeds
to taste. Mix in the fried tofu and
the cherry tomatoes. Check for
1 tbsp of garlic and ginger paste
1 tsp of chilli powder GOOSEBERRY
the salt. Add the pepper powder
and toss gently. And serve at
2 tsp of lemon juice
2 tsp of biryani masala powder
CURRY
once. salt to taste INGREDIENTS:
250 gm of gooseberry
METHOD
Salt pepper tofu and vegetables For the gravy:
Fry the bread pieces in oil till
golden and crispy. Alternately, 3 tsp of oil
you could oil roast the bread 3-4 tbsp of tomato puree
pieces or you could even 2 tsp of ginger garlic paste
toast the bread slices in 1 tsp of red chilli paste
1/ tsp of haldi powder
case you want to avoid 2
the oil. 1/ tsp of jeera powder
4
Heat oil in the kadai 1/ tsp of garam masala powder
2
and add cumin seeds salt to taste
and allow the seeds to
crackle. for garnishing:
Add the onions and fry coriander chopped
till translucent. Now mix in METHOD
the tomato pieces and fry for Wash the gooseberry after
a further 2 minutes. Mix in the removing and discarding the
peas, corn and the haldi powder leaves. Cut a few into halves and
RABRIE WITH
FRUITS
INGREDIENTS:
1litre of milk
sugar to taste
1/ tsp of cardamom powder
2
for garnishing:
fresh fruits
METHOD
Bring the milk to boil in a heavy
bottomed pan and reduce the milk
to half its original quantity. Add
leave the others whole. Keep METHOD
aside. the sugar and stir till the sugar
Par cook the vegetables in
Heat the oil in a kadhai and fry melts. Once the milk is thickened,
salted water till just tender but not
the ginger garlic paste for 2 cool the sweetened milk. Place in
over cooked. You could boil the
minutes. Lower the heat and add a fridge to cool. Serve with fresh
lotus stem separately so that all
the tomato puree and the spices fruits and serve.
the dirt can be removed. Place all
and stir fry for 2-3 minutes. Add the par boiled vegetables in a large
one cup of water and salt to taste.
Bring the gravy to boil and add
sized pan. Add the vegetable stock
and one cup of water and bring the CARROT
the gooseberries. Allow the
berries to simmer in the gravy for
soup to boil. Mix in the chillies
sauce and the agino mato and
STUFFED
2 minutes. Add the garam masala allow the soup to simmer with the INDIAN BREAD
and boil for another 1 minute. vegetables for 2 minutes. Remove INGREDIENTS:
Serve garnished with coriander and place in a deep serving dish. For the parantha:
leaves. Top with the fried noodles and 1 cup of wheat flour
serve at once. You could place the 1 tbsp of ghee
Chinese chopsuey
CHINESE
CHOPSUEY
INGREDIENTS:
1 cup of French beans cut
into long pieces
1 cup of carrots cut into long
pieces
1/ cup of lotus stems cut
2
into diagonal pieces
1 zucchini cut into thin circles
300 ml of vegetable stock
1 tsp of chilli sauce
1/ tsp of agino mato – optional
2
2 cups of crispy deep fried noodles
salt to taste
gra ce
Oomphish charm: This ultra-seductive
appearance in sleeveless kurti-salwar goes
well in the fashion – conscious world.
Romance of the A dreamy dress:
pink: Pink is the There are certain
colour of subtle dresses which
love, and this give dream – like
ensemble will reality. Yet, you
only draw your make a style
beloved to you. statement with it.
Symbol of class:
Classic is one
Exuding who chooses
elegance: White classy dresses.
is the colour of Attired so, you
purity. You will deserve to be in
look nobler clad in the circle of
this kurti-churidar. the class.
Scintillating
A winning adornment: What
combination: This a proper attire
dress just combines can do to a
beauty with beautiful woman?
elegance and leaves Just make her
nothing more to more beautiful
desire. and sexciting.
NEW MILESTONES
MEET
PREETI DESAI
ou can take an Indian out of in her parents’ company G2
Y
India but you can rarely Fireworks. However, her heart was
take the India out of an always set on something else. She
Indian. Many young British has become the first Indian-origin girl
passport holders who are to be crowned as Miss Great Britain.
first-generation British but She recently walked the Lakme
whose parents were Indians Fashion Week in Mumbai.
have this long-distance love Apart from all these catwalks,
with their country. The modelling and advertising, she is the
annual holidays instill a adventurous kind of young girl who
sense of belonging and their roots loves swimming and dancing and is a
are watered by the parents who keen practitioner of the martial arts
might live elsewhere but their hearts and yoga. In this encounter, she
are still as Indian from the day they shares her memories, her ideas and
left their country. plans with the readers.
Preeti Desai too was born in UK to
parents who left India a long time Tell us about your journey of
ago. She has worked as a beauty being crowned Miss Great Britain?
therapist after a rigorous three-year I was crowned in November 2006
training, and went on to be a partner after a public vote. Actually, the
Dab Shimmers
(SS-2 gold) from
Coloressence for
shimmering
effect.
For the
lips, apply
rust-brown
colour from
Coloressence
lip pallete.
To highlight
cheekbones,
use two
blushers –
gold and
peach from
mineral
blusher.
Make-up: Nature’s Essence, Suneeti Soni,
H-15/3, Malviya Nagar, New Delhi.
Ph: 011-26673045/65, Mob: 9899801623
WHY MASS COMM
EDUCATION?
When the members career in the media photography, graphics, animation,
A
industry is the latest trend media management, advertising, PR,
of the faculty are in among many youngsters in
India. Today the strong
corporate communications, event
management and related areas. It is
touch with the influence that the media
holds over people’s lives
one of the best-equipped media
schools in the country in the private
changes taking has also attracted many to sector.
start a career in Media. Situated in Noida, in the NCR
place in the media The business opportunities region, it has a capacity to
in Indian media and accommodate 750 students with two
world, and inculcate entertainment industry are enormous. complete industry-standard TV
There is untapped potential along studios, non-linear editing suites,
in students media with the good creativity talent. The radio studio, photography studio, e-
study that is media industry is very vivid and one
of the most versatile industries and
classrooms and commercial content
development.
modern and hence finding the right kind of
institute is no easy task. But in this
The institute has started a fresh
intake for one-year master and
relevant, there respect and for a proper guidance in
journalism, you can trust upon the
diploma programmes, after graduation
and 12th class respectively in the
is no doubt about MassCo Media. above-mentioned streams and six-
MassCo Media is an established month certificate programmes in TV
achieving newage communication institute for production and anchoring, radio
the study of print and broadcast jockeying, programming and
one’s goal. journalism, TV production, production. Also being launched is a
By Suman Bajpai
special master programme in media and mass communications. kind of course as we get a chance to
electronic media and advertising. For Ravikant who has come from explore in terms of field work and
The Institute has a well-qualified Gorakhpur, a student of media and placements.”
faculty of academics and industry communication, it is a platform to For Sri Raj Ray who has come
experience. Besides, many augment his public-speaking skills. “I from Kolkata, it is like dream come
professionals from all over the was looking for an animation course true. He is doing the photo journalism
country and outside keep coming to but seeing this course, I thought I will course. He has a great regard for his
deliver lectures on emerging areas in get the better chances to learn many professor. “My professor is
media and communications. This related things in one course itself. competent techniquely, but his life
institution also provides solutions in Apart from the incredible learning experiences are so extensive which
broadcasting and TV software today I can say that I feel more help us enormously. Even the
production, graphics and animation. confident than before.” environment is very good and
Second year students of the three- friendly. We have the latest
year degree program of arts in media equipments and technology.”
and communication think that here CAREER PANORAMA The best part of this institute is
they can get much more A student of MassCo Media not that it provides a career panorama
opportunities in comparison to other only gets the opportunity to absorb a for each student who is talented and
institutes. “Here the focus is on the true media experience, but can creative. For Payal Singh who is now
practical-based work and the most explore his or her talents in many working as an account manager with
encouraging part is that the faculty is ways. Rather than just textbook iAvatarZ Digital, an Australia-based
very competent and efficient. This education, here students learn ad network, primarily into online
place is a good platform for working through their practical experiences marketing and advertising, MassCo
in the media industry,” note the which enhance their growth so that Media has been a great learning
students. when they reach industry experience for her as a student. “I am
MassCo Media has a tie-up with placements, they are ready with the glad that I took the step of joining
universities in Australia and the US enriched thoughts and experience in MassCo Media and could enrich
for imparting undergraduate versatile media projects under their myself and today have a job with an
programs. The foreign university belt. ad network. MassCo Media is just not
affiliates allow students to study in Richa Sharma who is pursuing her about theory and classrooms it's
India and get a credit for the years first year PG diploma in event more about infield knowledge.
of study to finish the degree. Each management and PR from this On the job training they provide
student is empowered to finish his or institute has come all the way from makes you professional in your
her degree in Australia or the US. Rourkela, Orissa. She came to know chosen field. I think the best part is
There is also a tie-up with an Indian through the net about this institute. the facility, which this institute
university for a graduate degree in She feels, “This place is ideal for my provides to its students not only in
include a stunning and industry-
standard facility.
When the students like me
graduate from the institute, they do
not get awe struck to see the media
environs. Studying in MassCo Media
is not like studying, it’s actually
working, working towards your goal.”
When the members of the faculty
are in touch with the changes taking
place in the media world, and
inculcate in students media study that
is modern and relevant, there is no
doubt about achieving one’s goal and
develop creative passion. When the
faculty challenges the students to
consider the media world from new
MASSCO MEDIA HAS When Sarika Tirkey came to know perspectives and the students benefit
about this institute through a career from the faculty's vast experience,
TWO COMPLETE fair organised in Ranchi, Jharkhand, then the possibility of success
INDUSTRY-STANDARD TV she knew this was the place for her. increases.
She is pursuing her master program Md. Shujauddin Khan has written
STUDIOS, NON-LINEAR in TV production. “When I came here one such success story. He did his
EDITING SUITES, RADIO the star attractions were equipment diploma in television production and
and studios. broadcast journalism from MassCo
STUDIO, PHOTOGRAPHY I am lucky to have a supportive Media and is presently working with
STUDIO, E-CLASSROOMS faculty and any student who wants to Jan Sandesh Hindi news channel as
prosper he or she can fulfill their a production executive. He considers
AND COMMERCIAL dream here,” declares Sarika with his days at MassCo Media the
CONTENT DEVELOPMENT. confidence. precious moments of his life.
Each student who is studying here “The days at MassCo Media were
terms of the latest industry or was a student of this esteemed the best days of my life as I identified
equipments and infrastructure but institute has something positive to my passion for mass media and
also the personal attention that each share in terms of experiences, in groomed to become a professional.
student avails from the faculty. Apart terms of guidance and in terms of Mr Mani Kandan is a teacher that I
from excellent in-house faculties, placements. Suposh Sharma, an ex- would remember my whole life who
they provide us with visiting faculty student of this institute is now introduced us to the world of
from the respective industry. working with the Jan Sandesh Hindi Cameras and other TV production
This was a great help as we used news channel as a production techniques. I had great time
to get trained according to the executive. He shared his experiences reading news through the tele
requirements of the industry. I had all with us. “There is a saying which prompter and anchoring for in-house
the freedom and access to use the goes like, ‘Better late than never’. programmes.
library, computers and studio any This is how my tryst with the media Documentary making was another
time of the day as per my industry has begun and thanks to great experience as we explored the
convenience. The training module, MassCo Media and Prof Avinash art of story telling through the lenses.
which requires every student to give Singh in particular. It was with the help of my professors
a presentation with a proper set-up that my documentary titled Jeena Isi
and live audience, has sure boosted
my confidence, which today I
FREEDOM TO Ka Naam Hai won the First Frame
2008 award for the best director
consider is the most important asset STUDENTS category. I feel it is among the best
for any beginner. Appearing for the MassCo Media has given the kick- institutes in India that provides us
campus interviews held almost every start to my long impending craving to with the latest equipment that are of
week helped me to sharpen my get into media. This began when I industry standards,” enthuses
communication skills and knowledge stepped into MassCo Media. The Shujauddin.
as per industry requirements. All I best thing about the institute was the This is one institute which
can say that it helped me shape my freedom to students in terms of changes the perception and provides
career and personality,” beams creativity, implementation of their direction and opportunities to grow in
Payal. concepts among others, which the respective media fields. We
OVERCOMING
200 nominations received for the
award, seven will finally receive
various awards. The names of the
DISABILITY
the Ability Foundation.
The other prominent jury members
also shared their thoughts on the
nominees. Director Radha Mohan,
whose film Mozhi–ITAL portrayed the
emotional journey of a deaf and
Efforts and achievements of dumb girl Archana, said he was
inspired by the work done by Ability
people afflicted with disability will not go Foundation and that he had learnt
sign language for making the movie
unnoticed, thanks to the pioneering work of at the foundation.
Actress Revathy, also a trustee of
Ability Foundation and support the Ability Foundation, said these
by CavinKare. awards played an important role in
removing the stigma attached to
disability. “The words ‘I cannot do’
should not be uttered by a person
with disability. That is our aim,” she
said.
A HUMBLING
EXPERIENCE
N. Murali, managing director, The
Hindu–ITAL, said it was a humbling
experience for him to meet the
nominees shortlisted for the award.
He said the nominees had
demonstrated that they could not only
overcome their disability, but also
achieve much more than what the
persons without disability could. He
said the selection process was tough
A. R. Rahman receiving a memento from C. K. Rangnathan.
and it was not easy to arrive at a
enerally, society looks CavinKare Ability Award by a jury decision as to who was eligible for
G
upon disability as a stigma. that comprised eminent personalities the award.
Persons afflicted with like Oscar winner music director A.R. Former chairperson, National
physical and mental Rahman. Commission for Women, V. Mohini
disability are taken as Later, speaking to the Giri said ability and disability were
curse on the family. But mediapersons, Rahman said he was synonymous and attitudes towards
now, you don’t need to see deeply touched by their efforts to persons with disability were changing
everything in shades of overcome challenges posed by in society. “It is not a stigma any
black and grey. Disabled disability. “All of us think we have a more,” she stressed.
people are scaling new problem. We complain how we are Director of Ability Foundation
heights everyday and creating new fat or thin, fair or dark. But there is a Jayshree Ravindran said the awards
records. lesson for us all to learn from persons were aimed at breaking the
This was evident at a function held with disabilities,” he said. He also stereotypes surrounding the abilities
recently in Chennai by the Ability said that their stories show how of persons with disability. C. K.
Foundation, an organisation working persons with congenital disabilities Rangnathan, CMD of CavinKare,
for the uplift of disabled people. At could become achievers with which sponsors the awards,
the function, 12 disabled people were consistent efforts. presented mementos to all the jury
shortlisted for the prestigious Of the 12 shortlisted people from members. We
67
These apparels
present a fusion of
oriental and
occidental fashion.
Keeping in touch
with the taste of
urbane woman,
these fashionable
ensembles adorn
the lady on the go,
accentuating her
charm. However,
the obvious drive is
towards a perfect
and presentable
you to your friends
and admirers.
Graceful
Trendy & Stylish
The allure of black
& white: This
attractive skirt with
all-white top is
bound to shake up
even the ascetic.
What a befitting
ensemble?: The
shimmering churidar
has a fit combination in
the top worn with a wide
ornamental belt. The
modernistic hairdo is an
added attraction to
present a winning
personality.
A reflective pose:
This modern
dress blends well
with the garland
of round glass
beads.
Delightful look:
The short pants with
the trendy top with
an engaging hairdo
is sure to set the
house on fire.
Adding to a
glamorous look: The
floral skirt with
equally matching
top is sure to make
the intended
conquest.
Accentuating the
assets: Dressed in
stylish trousers with
a contrasting top,
the target seems to
be someone very
close to her.
Eyes on style:
This floral pants
synchronises
temptingly with a
top and garland
of beads.
Dressing to kill:
This tapering churidar
with stylish kurti makes
the lady all the more
charming with a
outshining necklace.
N
NING: READING THIS profession. apes, having a gorilla monkeying
MAY BE INJURIOUS TO After all, it’s always been just a about at such delicate moments. And
DOCTORS’ HEALTH. Born matter of the doctor bringing home can you imagine the whale of an
in the USA, Bruce Spring- the bacon by bringing home the underwater income that an
steen’s huge 1984 chart - babies although, lately, it’s been in a obstetrician of that breed is missing
buster became an anthem maternity ward. But, in the past, there out on after graduating from the
for American anti-Vietnam was no fuss with no one getting school of fish?
war protesters. But India’s hyper, building tension about the So when and how did this human
new-age newlyweds sing small matter that was about to make mania for hospital delivery by an
another tune – without any idea of an appearance. Come to think of it, obstetrical stork rear its mystifying
the original’s lyrics. Their big dreams no one ever did make a fuss about head? And what makes it so much
for families they are yet to start? The something like that for something like superior in the US of A? Are babies
prized US passport – as their kids’ the previous 40,000 years of human born there s-o-o much more better
ticket to travel to worlds the would- evolution. That is, till some time in off than those born even in our
be parents can’t without visa hassles. the mid-twentieth century. After that, shanty towns and remote villages?
But there’s another big factor: their hype overtook common sense. Let’s face it. From the evolution of
perception that there’s a big differ - In fact, among the billions of humankind, those embryonic speci-
ence in American hospital facilities at species of life on Earth, has anyone mens of humanity have literally been
the time of delivery. Big deal! Are wondered why it’s only been people born fighters. They have been born
Indian hospitals less well equipped? who have paid to be pampered by while being borne sky-high in
Not so long ago, in fact, people would obstetrical attention? Plants have transcontinental jetliners as success-
wonder what one needed a hospital their own mysterious ways of going fully as in down-to-earth jhuggis and
for only to have a baby. Those were about reproduction. The birds and the jhompris. They have all been born to
the days when childbirth was consi- bees have long been proverbially live.
dered nothing more than a home- reputed to be self-reliant in such And they have lived, survived and
A naughty look:
Wearing a laced
capri, an
The stylish attractive attire,
look: The girl with written
looks no less message and
impressive in golden belt, the
this suitably girl draws
designed attention.
outfit.
A
never complete without a every side.
trip to Lyttelton, port of The harbour is an inlet on the
Christchurch, which offers north-western side of Banks
us one of the most Peninsula, extending 18 km inland
fascinating views of the from the southern end of Pegasus
extinct volcanoes in the Bay. It is surrounded by steep hills
world. Lyttelton is located formed from the sides of an extinct
on the north shore of volcanic crater which rises to a height
Lyttelton Harbour on Banks of 500 m. Several smaller settlements
Peninsula, 12 km by road from are dotted along the shore of the
Christchurch on the eastern coast of harbour, notably Governor's Bay and
the South Island of New Zealand. Diamond Harbour. A small island,
The quaint town consists of small Quail Island, sits in the upper harbour
cottages and is very picturesque and south-west of Lyttelton.
WORLD'S OUTSTANDING
GEOGRAPHY
Lyttelton looks calm and serene 15,000 years ago. They now form the Lyttelton and Akaroa, the principal
and is famous for its Banks Peninsula harbours of Lyttelton and Akaroa. settlements on the peninsula, lie
which consists of eroded remnants Originally, Banks Peninsula was inside the eroded craters of the old
of 2 ancient volcanoes. Banks an island, but it became tied to the volcanoes, now flooded by the Pacific
Peninsula is situated in about the Canterbury Plains at some late stage Ocean. These sea-invaded craters,
middle of the east coast of the South in geological history when the the twin harbours of Lyttelton and
Island on the margin of the growing alluvial plain reached its Akaroa, are among the world's
Canterbury Plains. It is approximately base. The Lyttelton volcano began outstanding examples of eroded and
450 sq miles in area and its highest erupting perhaps 15 million years flooded craters. Colourful cliffs of
point is Herbert Peak, 3,014 ft. A trip ago. The last eruptions on the flanks layered lava and ash deposits can be
on the gondola which takes one to of the younger Akaroa volcano seen around the outer coast. The
the top of the sightseeing spot from occurred less than 6 million years cliffs provide havens for wildlife and
where we can view those famous ago. “Banks Island” was eventually form stunning coastal scenery.
volcanoes was really very joined to the mainland by sand and In the course of his
fascinating. The volcanoes were gravels eroded from the Southern circumnavigation of the South Island,
breathtaking and are really a sight to Alps by the enormous glaciers of Captain Cook sighted the peninsula
behold. Their craters have several ice ages. The sand and on 16 February 1770. On the
subsequently been enlarged to many gravels were washed seawards to following day he concluded it was an
times their original size by stream form the Canterbury Plains. The two island and named it in honour of
erosion; they were then invaded by extinct volcanoes were active less Joseph Banks. On that day he also
the sea during the post-glacial world- than half a million years ago. saw the entrance to Akaroa Harbour.
wide rise in sea level beginning about Akaroa is the larger volcano and In the early years of the 19th century
Tell me,
TELL ME... Find life so wonderful,
Why, when you are with me, Cannot just stop smiling?
The skies seem bluer, What secret do you hold,
The breeze more cool, What magic do you weave,
The flowers smell sweeter, To drive the bogeys away,
Birdsong’s full of cheer? When you are with me?
Tell me, Just promise me one thing
Why, when I am with you, Come what may...
My heart sings with joy, That you will never leave my side
I am loving and gentle, Or let me leave yours...
Compassionate and giving, Ever.
So at peace with myself? – Romola Shanbhag
Tell me,
Why, when we are together,
I like myself better,
Feel so blessed, so hopeful,
TEEN ACHE
TEEN CHE
My boyfriend and I are both 19 years
old and plan to get married in five
years when we are settled in our
A
careers. The problem is that although
will not matter. If you do not see eye
to eye on major issues like money,
children, future goals etc., it is a good
thing to sort these out before
we love each other, we are deciding to marry.
Q&
constantly arguing with each other. Perhaps you are both short
Sometimes, we don’t speak to each tempered and egoistic. In this case, if
other for days on end. you love each other, it does not really
My friends tell me that marrying matter if either of you gives in to the
him is a bad idea as we will surely other’s wishes to avoid a
I am an 18-year-old girl belonging to divorce each other soon. I, however, confrontation to avoid bitterness in
an orthodox family. I have always feel that we will stick together even if the relationship. If neither of you is
wanted to become a doctor and my we constantly fight. What do you willing to compromise, constant
father has been quite supportive – till advise? bickering can take a toll. So, think
last week, when he visited an What are the issues you quarrel carefully before taking the plunge.
astrologer to show him my about? If these are trivial, your fights
horoscope. This man told my father
firmly that I should not study further – I feel completely devastated and
or I will jeopardise all my chances of I am a 15-year-old shocked. I have always had the
having a good marriage. According girl. My hands and greatest respect for my father
to him, if I study further, I will remain feet are always because of the good values he
unmarried. This has scared my father sweating, even in upheld but when I saw him browsing
who is, naturally, keen to see me cold weather. This is through some porn sites on the net, I
married and happy. So, now, he is very embarrassing was horrified. How can he do this?
refusing to let me go to medical when I shake hands He does not know that I found out but
college. I am so desperately with anyone, for my clasp is I have lost all affection for him.
unhappy. Is there any way out? clammy and sticky. Even my exam Should I tell my mother, who is a
A
It is a very difficult situation for answer sheets get smudged and gentle loving soul? Please help me
you, but you should know that grubby with my sweat. Please gain my peace of mind.
astrologers and their predictions are advise. My parents are of no help, Although it is understandable that
all bunkum. How many of their and my friends only make fun of you are shocked, perhaps you should
forecasts have proved true? Haven’t me. face reality and accept that your
several astrologers given conflicting Are you of a nervous father is a normal human being and
predictions? All the same, you will not disposition? High strung persons not a saint. Looking at porn sites is
find it easy to convince your father often perspire a lot, and in fact, not a wicked thing but a harmless
who is, anyway, doing what he thinks their sweat exudes a peculiar activity for many men, who are good,
is best for you. You can ask some unpleasant odour. But then, their loyal husbands and fathers. Children
close relatives or friends he trusts to sweating is not confined only to hate to know that their parents have
speak to him. Even your teachers their hands and feet. If this sexual feelings! Many are even
could try to make him change his problem bothers you, consult your extremely uncomfortable and
mind. family doctor. He can suggest unhappy to think that their parents
As a last resort, you can simply remedies and medication if have sex with each other. You should
put your foot down and state that you needed. In the meanwhile, wipe definitely continue to respect your
are determined to follow your dream your hands frequently with father for he seems to have earned it.
– even if it means that you will remain perfumed tissues, and powder Even if you confide in your mother,
single as your father believes. This your feet before wearing your chances are that she will not be
might bring him to his senses. You footwear. This can help. Also try shocked but amused by your
cannot let any astrologer jeopardise some relaxation exercises. revelation. In fact, she may know this
your future with such impunity. already!
Cosy Nest
case leads to the bedroom. Other furnishings
in the room add elegance.
Study time:
Study unit with
wooden
cabinetry and
book case.
Orange rug on
the floor livens
up the mood!
W
care. Jakarta is always is home to over 10 million people.
in the news for all wrong Forest fires and land clearance
reasons", my friend produce thick haze over Jakarta. It
remarked when I told of seems there is no easy solution for
my impending trip to the Indonesian haze that has blighted
Jakarta. So it was with Southeast Asia every year for the
a certain amount of past decade. Children under five
apprehension that I years and people who work outdoors
started my journey. suffer from haze-related ailments.
Wasn't I in for a surprise? The majority of Indonesians are
Everyone who met us in Jakarta Muslims, but Indonesia is not an
had a warm smile and talked niceties Islamic state. It is a Pancasila state,
to us. Later I came to know that the ideology of which is "belief in the
Indonesians are known as the one Supreme God". This means that
friendliest people in the world the different religious systems must
towards foreigners and they are very be respected. You can see many
tolerant of their behaviour. But there Moslem prayer houses in the city
are some things that one has to take beside many churches and a few
care while interacting with temples.
Indonesians. Patting on the head is Jakarta, one of Indonesia's
not done among adults since they designated tourist areas, is a
consider the head as sacred and gateway to other destinations in the
must be respected. It is considered country. It has the largest and
impolite to call someone by crooking modern airport in Indonesia, as well
the index finger. as the most important harbour in
JAKARTA AND
PARATHAS
Though the majority of Indonesians
are Muslims, Indonesia is not an
Islamic state. Moreover, the people
are most friendly to the foreigners.
By Dr Beena Rani Goel
Q
hormonal imbalance. Very often a
growth in the adrenal glands is
responsible for this condition called I am 32 years old and married for the
hirsutism. You should see your last seven years but I have not
doctor who after examining you will conceived so far. I have normal
investigate and treat you accordingly. periods at regular intervals with normal
In the meantime, you can either blood flow. Then what is the reason
bleach, shave or pluck those hairs. that I am infertile? Please advise.
But please remember that these are Having normal periods in any
Q&
only temporary measures. woman of child-bearing age does not
Q
confer on her automatic fertility. It only
means that your body is adhering to
I am 35 years old. My husband is 40 the normal hormonal pattern which
year. Recently his father aged 60 governs the release of ovum. But
died of a heart attack. It has left us there can be other causes like
shaken. I am worried about my blockage or impaired movements of
husband since heart attacks run in your fallopian tubes. In addition, some
families. Please advise. women have endometrioses which
Your fears are well founded. Heart might be the cause of infertility. But
disease does run in families. It would help in your case can come only from
I am 30 years old and my husband is be better if you get your husband your doctor who has to investigate
35. Both of us are overweight. Will checked medically. In the meantime, you thoroughly for your problem.
Q
our children also be overweight? We take care of his weight, diet, blood
are both worried. Please help. pressure and cholesterol levels. But
Obesity/fatness has been linked do not get panicky. Adopt a positive I am 20 years old. It is quite a fashion
to a number of factors which range attitude with a healthy lifestyle. to get a tattoo. I am thinking of
Q
from heredity, the environment, diet getting one. Is there any risk
and lack of physical activity to involved? Please advise.
hormonal influences. Whether your I am 30 years old and married. I get Getting a tattoo depends more on
offspring will be obese will be guided quite a pain when having sex. This the whims of the person. Medically
by a number of factors as already problem has arisen only for the last the only problem is introduction of
A
elucidated. Heredity is only one of the few months. Please advise. infection (if the instruments are not
factors. What you suffer from is called properly sterilised). The main risk is
vaginismus where the sex act catching hepatitis, AIDS and tetanus
becomes painful. It is due to chronic from contaminated needles. So be
I am 25 years old and I have recently pelvic inflammation, lack of lubrication cautious and take proper precautions
noticed small vesicles on my private in the vagina and the use of certain before you go for tattooing.
Q
parts. These vesicles have turned drugs. Your doctor can check for any
into blisters and there is oozing from such problem like chronic infection
them. Please help. which might be lingering there and I am 30 years old and slightly on the
What you have got is genital treat you accordingly. obese side. I recently read that coffee
Q
herpes which is usually transmitted can help reduce weight. Please
by sexual contact. No doubt, these advise.
lesions are painful and are likely to I am 30 years old and recently Coffee drinking has its own
heal within a week. But the problem noticed a small swelling on my benefits, provided it is taken in
will be that the whole area will private parts. My doctor says they are moderation. It is a mild stimulant and
become painful and may leave genital warts. What are they? Please may suppress your appetite but this
behind a burning sensation. You advise. is only temporary. If your are really
should consult your doctor who can Genital warts are sexually interested in reducing your weight,
advise you accordingly. In the transmitted and are caused by the you have to follow the routine of diet
meantime, keep the part clean with human papilloma virus. These may control and an exercise programme.
frequent washing. Also no sex till you appear alone and/or in clusters. There is no short cut to it.
are cured of the disease. These are caused by viruses and are — Dr S. N. Khosla, MD.
An artist who
progresses with
the process of
introspection.
By Our Correspondent
AN ARTIST FORESEEING
THE 22ND CENTURY
assing era is witnessing is just a creation of nature like all
P
great changes as time has other creatures.
been seeing it since nobody How are humans becoming
in existence. By the machines – more or less – it is well
development or (advancement shown by Pratibha Singh with her
of complexities) in living and brush. And her art works are not only
nonliving, humans appeared of juxtapositions of man and material
and so their witty or confused but this also reflexes the power of the
mind generated nonliving combination and loneliness of man-
men representing machines. machine entities. The paintings
Thereafter mankind’s closeness with showing greenery depicting nature is
nature (sincere and genuine) had around us like a mother’s lap for a
begun to far to farther. Though man baby.
Pratibha’s recent series, Shape of
things to come rightly spreads
imagery amalgamation of man and
machine in realistic form. Under this
theme she evolved some future shots
that might be far from us but not from
our coming generations.
Pratibha’s work is neither futuristic
nor science fiction but she has used
a vision to compound contrary
elements. In her hands the organic
and the inorganic are brought into
bedlock apart from human-cum-
animal forms. After all, art is for our
introspection, retrospection, so that
we float with our emotions of fear and
wonder, and what not in order that
our awareness expands in freedom.
We humans are speculative
creatures, and especially so our
HELL IN PARADISE
Asif Iqbal Khan
Ph: 9419547993, 0194-2428151
E-mail:asifoart@yahoo.mail.com
B.F.A. from Kashmir University
PAIN OF ARTIST
B.Sc.-I from Kashmir University
6-month course in documentary films
from Wide Angle Films
Production House.
Participation:
Annual State Art Exhibition, Jammu ...Yet the artist sees a silver lining
and Kashmir Academy of Art, Culture
and Languages from in every cloud. By Puja Sharma
Art competition organised by NZCC
(North Zone Cultural Centre),
Srinagar.
AIFACS, New Delhi.
Art Teachers’ Corner, Delhi Public
School, Ranipur and Hardwar
Awards:
First Award by North Zone Cultural
Centre, Srinagar 1987.
J and K Academy of Art, Culture and
Languages 1998; calligraphy 1997
Funkar Cultural Organisation 1998
Appreciation Award for poster on AIDS
Academy of Art, Culture and
Language 2000
Best Exhibit in Art Teachers’ Corner
2005, 06, 07
Contribution to art by Education
Minister (J&K), Best poster by Chief eautiful is the city when one to nurish the soul of some and at the
B
Minister (J&K), Medal for best painting talks of colours. A vast same time kills the desire to live, of
by Vice-Chancellor (UK) variety of flowers, chinar other heartless people, who want to
Solo shows: leaves, range of hills and destroy nature and its creation, Asif
Government Boys Higher Secondary mountains and multi - very successfully portrays both the
School, Srinagar coloured gardens of never- angles of the events taking place in
Paintings, drawings and still-lifes, ending spring. Orange, his surroundings in the vale of
Delhi Public School, Srinagar ochre, red, yellow, crimson, beauty.
Group shows: scarlet, and numerous Nature is the best source of
Contemporary Art Foundation, shades of grass and leaves inspiration for an artist to express his
Srinagar, Kashmir. of autumn. White, grey, feelings and emotions.
Collections: hazy and transparent – We can not create or
India, England, Denmark, Croatia. so many shades of snow draw natural objects or
Scholarships: on mountains. things as perfectly as
Merit scholarships from Fine Arts So vast a variety of they had been already
College, Srinagar unseen hues, comprising created. However, we
Presently working at DPS, Athwajan, an enchanting place can appreciate nature
Bypass-Chowk, Srinagar (J&K) India. none other than Kashmir or beauty on the basis
– a paradise on earth is of our own interpre -
proved by the paintings tations and percep -
of Asif Iqbal Khan a very tions.
young and sensitive But for every type of
artist from Srinagar in work or meditation, we
Kashmir. Born and definitely need to have
brought up in such a peace of mind which is
lovely place, where very important. When
beauty is the good food this peace of mind gets
Disturbance – painting by Asif Iqbal Khan.
disturbed by any means it of time...” comments Arshia
disturbs an artist’s mind. When Malik.
the mind gets disturbed, the Excerpts from an interview:
situation becomes unbalanced.
So it becomes a big issue for an What is your philosophy of
artist to revolt against these art?
disturbing and unbalancing Art for me is the source to
circumstances. control and balance the internal
A very young artist Asif Iqbal energies with the help of
Khan paints whatever he speaking lines and colours. Art
observes spite of the fact that an acts as a second arm of a
artist, who is the real lover of balance or a scale to equalise the
nature, always tries to create a cultural feelings and emotions...
piece of art which gives pleasure
rather than pain and agony. Which are your favourite
The artist says, “I’m feeling colours and mediums of paint?
very sorry for the prevailing Blue and white and I paint in
conditions of my valley. My valley, prevailing conditions of our valley.” oil and acrylic.
once upon a time, was known as the “One can see and observe clearly
paradise on earth, the symbol of love, the impressions of disturbance, How do you react to criticism?
peace, brotherhood, and what not! disorder of colours, lines and forms. I For me criticism acts as a strong
Everyone is sad, worried, tense and am feeling that the original, real and energy source. It makes a person
trapped in anxiety. beautiful shape of our valley is lost more confident and presentable
It is said that an artist is more and de-shaped. Let’s hope and pray provided you are constructive and
sensitive than a normal person, he for the best and peaceful future of positive.
quickly gets the impressions of any our valley.”
incident. “My works are actually the Asif is deeply pained and brings How do you develop an idea for
expressions and reflections of the that out in his paintings yet feels a composition for your painting?
happiest when he Deep study and observation click
makes his paintings my mind to develop an idea for my
speak for him. He loves composition on the basis of my
to see the figurative perception and interpretation. But I
paintings of Raphael still remember it was a long way back
and Dutch artist Vermeer in my childhood, when I often used
and the sculpture of to scribble with my charcoal pieces
Michelangelo the taken from the kandi (fire-pot) on the
legendary old master of walls of my classroom. I was often
art a good ideal. punished for this as they thought I
“Asif’s drawings, was making the walls dirty. That
especially the hand and piece of desire developed in me
the feet imprints, bring earnestly and till today it has made
up the minds and the me a developed artist – an artist with
desperation that each of creation. I think a painting without
us feels in the valley emotion is a body without soul.
today, but at the same
time it gave hope that Is art for art’s sake?
they were not missing at If your really paint with dedication
all from his works or and a strong feeling, people will
their size had not automatically appreciate you and
decreased as had the purchase your painting. Art should be
figures in his paintings for art’s sake if you are a real painter.
like tiny beings My dream is to make my own identity
powerless before the as a painter at international level.
tides of time. For this in
itself is evident that Anything for the new artists?
despite all the turmoil The only secret is to spend more
he still wants to leave time in nature, love your colours and
his mark on the sands play with them. We
I
Hirji Jehangir Art Gallery, boundaries – paintings in which; choosing the right profession. And
Mumbai, 2009. you travel to a place one can only my mother, who is a housewife,
Two-person shows: dream of. An artist none other always supported my father and me.
Sukriti Art Gallery, Jawahar Kala than Bhumika Takshak, a very She would not let me do my
Kendra, Jaipur 2006. young and egoistic, person, living household chores if my show is very
Welcom Art Gallery, Rajputana in the world of dreams, close! And my parents’ and sisters’
Palace Shereton, Jaipur 2007. accompanying the most famous love and support enabled me to
Group shows: art world of the masters of the become a good artist.
‘Aabha’, Ankan Art Foundation past. An artist whose dream is to I have four older sisters and all are
(Mumbai), AIFACS, New Delhi 2008. be in the Arts News of the London married. I did my MFA from
Samanavi Art Gallery, Jaipur 2005- Times . May her dreams come true Rajasthan School of Arts, Jaipur in
06-07. one day. Excerpt from an interview: 2007 under our head of the
Gallery One, Gurgaon 2007. Say something about department and well-
Camps: your life. known artist Vidhyasagar
Organised by Shangrila Art Gallery I belong to an artistic Upadhyay, who has
(Trivendrum) at Samrat Hotel, family. My father, really helped me in
New Delhi. Rameshwar Singh, is a developing new ideas.
Email:bhumi_takshak@rediffmail.com renowned artist from
Website:www.studiorameshwaram.com Rajasthan. Since child - What is your
hood, I had a keen philosophy of art?
interest in painting Art is the expression
because my father always of ‘self’. My works
used to give me small consist of experiments
canvases, paper, paints on the works of famous
and brushes. I am very western artists like
Woman’s Era
●
April (First) 2009
97
Bhumika with Monalisa and her sister.
Pablo Picasso, vanGogh, Leonardo which is very different or something
Da Vinci and others accompanied by that is not real or you have never
my self-portraits. Since the seen before!
beginning, I have been attracted to Why should I paint something
the works of these artists. And to be common like what is around us. I
with the greatest artists of the world don’t like to paint poor and hungry
and affection for them really gives me people or terror because these things
pleasure and my dream of their always scare us. Then why should
company takes me to those centuries we paint it? Paintings should give
or brings them to this century. It’s a peace or make us smile!
unique and eternal experience My father always encourages me
indeed! whenever I paint. I always have
We have so many great Indian interactions with my father on art.
artists. But since the very beginning I
am attracted to western masters who What is your source of
created history in the world of art. inspiration?
And their tragic lives inspired me to My first inspiration is, of course,
study more about them, and to begin my father. As in every painting of
my paintings with the elements of mine you will see a ‘newspaper’ kind
world popular paintings. of script, an important element of my
paintings. This gives textural effect
Which are your favourite as well as my interest in writing
colours and mediums? something about the western artist
I like bright colours in my paintings and me. And sometimes, I make their
which are, of course, derived from famous paintings’ drawings in it.
our Indian culture! I like all the
colours especially red, green, black How do you gather ideas to
and white and I paint in acrylic. compose a painting?
I love making self-portraits! As I
What is your style of painting? love fashion, I try to make it very
My work takes forth from the ‘pop creative with flowery hair-styles,
art’ technique, which attempts to tattoos and fashionable dress or
reinterpret and reproduce works done something!
by other artists. The Introduction of Some faces are even mask-like or
old masters in my works is linking me funny to give a smile onto the face of
with the glory of the past and with the viewer and myself! I give coats
today’s touch of modernism. I wish and coats of paint on the canvas till it
to create highly imaginative and gives textural effect and depth. I paint
dramatic space both for my whatever strikes me. I love flowers.
satisfaction as well as for the And they are always part of my
spectators. Flowers, scripts, drawings compositions.
and self-portraits form valuable I just want to become a good artist
elements in my paintings which knowing I’ll have to work harder and
intend to blend the past and the harder. And I’ll do it. When I was
present, the east and the west... I three or four years old, my father
wish to stay forever with my art stuffs gave me paper and a pencil. And I
like colours, palettes and brushes used to make forms with scratches!
and the love for the masters! He used to get very happy. And as I
grew younger I developed an interest
How do you react to criticism? in painting.
When people criticise my works
as very similar to my dad’s, I just When and where are your
smile and say ‘when you work with coming shows?
another artist in his studio for long, I have two solo shows this year.
his impression would definitely be One is from 25 March – 4 April 2009
seen in your works!’ And I don’t feel at Triveni Gallery, Delhi. And the
bad about it. second is from 20 to 26 April at Hirji
I always wish to create something Jehangir Art Gallery, Mumbai. We
M
nightmare for travellers Some groups seem particularly
because of motion who are susceptible to it. It
can occur when the
susceptible to motion sickness
including children aged three-12
sickness? Follow sensory inputs about body
position contradict what is
years, people who experience
migraine, and women particularly
these tips. expected. Motion sickness
can be provoked by abrupt
during menstruation and pregnancy.
A large study (535 subjects) done in
By Dr Kiran Bala changes in movement India, found the prevalence of motion
such as occur during sickness was about 27 per cent.
bumpy rides, turbulent flights and The first documented evidence of
rough seas. It can also occur when motion sickness is in ancient Greek
one is exposed to moving visual literature from the early days of
scenes while the body is in a seafaring history. And it is interesting
relatively fixed state. to note that the English word nausea
According to experts, almost comes from the Greek word for ship
everyone will get motion sickness if (naus), which is also the origin of the
the conditions are extreme enough. word “nautical”.
But generally about one-third of the Features: All of us have probably
population is highly susceptible to had some form of motion sickness at
motion sickness, a third experiences one time or the other. It is an acute
it in fairly rough conditions and the condition of medical distress that
other third becomes sick only in results in skin pallor, restlessness
W
history of the American cool in the evening.
Indians, I came across
the ancient the word ansazi and
saw some spectacular CLIFF DWELLINGS
dwellings of pictures of a Stone Age We drove from Colorado to the
civilisation that existed Mesa Verde National Park. The
American between 650 AD and entrance to the park is nine miles
1300 AD. My knowledge east of Cortez on the US Highway
Indians give one of Spanish was enough 160. On day one, we decided to visit
to tell me that Mesa Verde meant the two most important ruins, Balcony
a fascinating “green table.” House and Cliff Palace. After
The Mesa Verde National Park is breakfast, we started to climb the
glimpse of a one of the oldest national parks in the mountains after first going to the
world and celebrated 100 years as a visitors’ centre where we bought
unique culture. National Park in June 2006. tickets costing $3 per person. The
It is the first site to be included as tour started at 11 am and our guide
By Partha De Sarkar a Cultural Heritage Site National Park was ranger Pete Morrison.
in the UNESCO list of 1976. The The culture represented at Mesa
Mesa Verde National Park consists Verde reflects more than 700 years
of mountain valleys and at times of history. From approximately 600
viewpoints reach the height of 8,500 AD through 1300 AD people lived
ft. We were in Mesa Verde in May and flourished in communities
Q1 I am very needy.
a. Most of the time.
b. Hardly ever.
c. Some of the time.
Q
2
I fall in love almost overnight.
a. Most of the time.
b. Some of the time.
c. Hardly ever.
Q
3
When I fall in love, I obsess. I can’t
help myself.
a. Some of the time.
b. Most of the time.
c. Hardly ever.
?
Answer
&
the questions win a
grand prize...
ARE YOU A
LOVE ADDICT
This interesting quiz may
help you in self-analysis and
3
lucky
winners will S
self-understanding.
elected entries will be published in the
forthcoming issue of Woman’s era. Look out
get the for the 15 May 2009 issue
book
L ast date for sending entries: 30 April 2009
Attach a photograph of your friend for a better
chance of featuring in Woman’s era
S
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Q
4
When I am looking for a relationship,
I will get involved with almost anyone
who shows interest in me.
Q
8
I either trust the wrong person,
or I can’t trust at all.
a. Hardly ever
a. Hardly ever b. Most of the time.
b. Most of the time. c. Some of the time.
c. Some of the time.
The befitting
accessories
No one can be at ease and
assured to step out confidently
without these dress add-ons.
Are’nt these
belts presenting
a picture of class
and variety?
K
uttan’s world lay shattered. In his 10 years Kuttan saw with a feeling of familiarity, the face
on this earth, his life had been normal in of the stranger. It suddenly struck him that the man
every way, or so he thought. There were the looked familiar because he resembled Kuttan
usual tiffs with friends, trouble with his himself. So it was true, what he had overheard!
parents over small misdemeanours and very, Without a coherent thought, Kuttan ran out of his
very rarely an upset with his little sister room, out of the house and followed the man. He
Ammini. thought he heard his mother’s voice calling out to
Now that was all over. By overhearing a him but he paid no heed.
conversation, his secure world had tumbled. He had When he caught up with the stranger, he
returned home early from school with a slight fever. slackened his pace. So they proceeded for some
He heard voices in his father’s office and nearly time, the stranger in front and Kuttan following him,
entered, when he heard a strange voice say, “Well, until they reached a poor locality.
after all, Kuttan is my son.” He stopped short and The stranger suddenly whirled around and
instinctively hid behind the door. grabbed Kuttan by the arm. “Did they send you to
He listened with bated breath, praying that his spy on me?” he demanded roughly. Kuttan tried to
daddy would deny the statement. With a sick pull away but the vice-like grip was too strong.
feeling, he heard his father say, “Yes, but...” Not “No, I did on my own,” he replied.
able to bear any more he slipped away to his room. Seeing Kuttan’s expression of candour, the
There, he sat unhappily on the stranger decided to change his tactics. In a soft
window sill and looked out onto voice be asked, “Do you know who I am? Why did
the road, his mind in a whirl. He you follow me?”
did not know what to think. As Kuttan was taken aback by the change of tone, “I
he sat looking out, he saw the overheard you say that you are my father and
stranger open the gate and daddy agreed with you. So I just came.”
walk out of the The stranger patted Kuttan on the head, “Yes,
compound. Kuttan, I am your father. I am a poor man, your
daddy’s cousin. I had borrowed money from him
and could not return it. He threatened me and
demanded that I give you up or return his money.
You were only a month old when I gave you up.
Your mother and I long to see you, but they don’t let
us. If you come with me, you can see your amma”.
The stranger continued in a serious tone, “I have
nothing against your daddy and mummy. However,
call us appen and amma, for we are your real
parents and we prefer the native ways of speech. Let
us leave westernisation to the rich.”
Changing the topic, the stranger said that his
name was Verghese and described his job and
spoke charmingly and humorously of the rigours of
The revelation to Kuttan that he was the adopted
son, magnified the conviction of his ill-treatment by his foster parents.
poverty. Kuttan was completely mesmerised. He
thought Verghese to be the most marvellous person
he had ever known.
hastily took Kuttan
around the house, all
along keeping up a
SHORT
STORY
Verghese then brought the topic around to string of cheerful talk.
Kuttan’s life with his daddy and mummy. He hinted When dinner was ready the woman
that they must be more loving to Ammini, since called Verghese and Kuttan. She served them
Kuttan was only an adopted son. and did not have much to say to Kuttan.
Verghese also hinted that Kuttan’s foster parents After dinner, Verghese told Kuttan that he
had not told him that he was an adopted child for must be tired and should rest. “We can
some dark and evil reason. Subtly, he poisoned the discuss serious matters in the morning. Go to
child’s mind against his foster parents, painting sleep now. You are safe with us. Are we not
himself at the same time in heroic hues. your real parents?” So saying, he showed
Kuttan the room he was to sleep in.
I
nfluenced by this talk, Kuttan now viewed his
K
foster father’s sterness and strict demands to uttan’s foster parents were in misery in
discipline in a new light. Yes, it was due to lack the meanwhile. His stern but loving
of love, he decided. daddy was pacing the floor. His mummy was
To Kuttan’s mind, all the little incidents that occur weeping and had Ammini in her lap. The little girl
in every family, where one child feels another is had cried herself to sleep. None of them were in a
more loved, became magnified. He was convinced mood to eat and the dinner was hardly touched. The
that he had been treated badly. police was informed and they were hopefully
Kuttan felt he would be happy to follow Verghese waiting for the phone to ring.
to the end of the world. Impulsively, he put out his Kuttan for his part lay on the mattress laid out for
hand, with a smile. Verghese held on to Kuttan’s him on the floor. Though exhausted by the events of
hand. So, hand in hand, they walked till they came the day, he was too excited to relax and fall asleep.
to a little house. He found he was desperately homesick and missed
Though small, the house was clean and neat. his daddy, mummy and Ammini.
Verghese knocked on the door. A thin, short woman His wounded heart kept crying silently, “Why
with a harassed expression on her face, opened the didn’t you tell me I was adopted? How can I ever
door. Without noticing Kuttan she started a tirade, trust you again? Mummy, daddy, why did you do
“Why are you so late? Did that good-for-nothing this to me?”
cousin of yours give you any money?” He heard the door to his room creak, someone
Kuttan was shaken by the woman’s tone and was coming in. He lay quietly and appeared to be
expression on her face. Could this be his own fast asleep. “Kuttan,” Verghese called in a soft
mother? He thought of his mummy, her sweet face voice. Getting no reply, he whispered, “He is
and charming voice. She too can get terribly angry asleep.” His wife then said in an angry voice, “All
– but what a difference between the two!. right, I have been patient long enough. Now tell me
Verghese made a warning sign to his wife and why you have brought this brat here – don’t we have
then said in a joyful tone, “See, I have brought you enough troubles without an extra mouth to feed?
something more precious than money! This is Kuttan, What is all this talk of ‘our own dear son’? Since
our own dear son. Kuttan, this is your amma.” when were your paternal instincts roused? After all,
The woman struggled to put up a pleasant front we had him for the sole purpose of selling him to
and pretended to be happy to see Kuttan. Her your rich cousin who is incapable of producing a
performance was not very convincing, so Verghese child.”
K
uttan’s very soul revolted. He felt head.
He felt ashamed
ashamed of his foolish behaviour. “You may go,” said the policeman to
He did not want to be a pawn in this of his foolish Verghese. Turning to Kuttan, he said,
dirty game. He decided to run away and behaviour. He “Come with me. At the station, we can talk
somehow earn a living and stay alone, for did not want to and I will take you home once you tell me
how could he go back to his daddy, be a pawn in your address.”
mummy and Ammini? They too would this dirty game. When they reached the police station,
judge him as bad and ungrateful. He decided to the inspector in charge was happy to see
Kuttan got up and silently walked to the run away and the policeman with Kuttan, “Ah! you have
door, he opened it a little and peeped out. somehow earn a found him very quickly I must say.”
No one was around, he took to his heels living. Seeing the policeman’s puzzled look,
and was out of the house in a second. the inspector continued, “Don’t you know
On hearing the sound of that there is an all-out alert for this boy?
the front door open, The complaint that he is missing and a full
Verghese and his wife rushed out. description came in four hours ago. The parents
“Stop, Kuttan,” they shouted. He have also made radio announcements offering
paid no heed and ran with all his rewards for news of his whereabouts. I will phone
might. up your parents now. Don’t worry, boy, they will be
Verghese was furious. “Get here in 10 minutes.” With that, the inspector rang
me my shirt,” he told his wife. up and, within 10 minutes, Kuttan’s daddy and
“That brat will help me in my mummy arrived.
plan whether he likes it or
T
not. I will bring him back here was a tearful reunion. Kuttan tried to
and lock him up in the explain matters and asked forgiveness but his
room for tonight.” fosterparents were too relieved and happy to
Struggling quickly into listen. “We will talk things over at home,” they said.
his shirt, Verghese gave After thanking the policeman and the inspector
chase. Kuttan seemed to and duly rewarding them, they left with Kuttan.
have wings on his feet as On reaching home, they asked Kuttan what had
he ran. His heart was happened. He explained and ended, “If you had
pounding. Verghese told me I was an adopted child it would have been
was catching up with
him. Sobbing he The realisation to Kuttan that he was merely a
pawn in the hands of his greedy real parents,
made him ashamed of his foolish behaviour by
leaving the sweet home in a huff.
so much better than knowing it this way. I wife were the natural parents.
have behaved badly, I know, but I was There was a “Daddy, mummy, what can I say? How
shocked at the revelation.” tearful reunion. can I ever be worthy of your love?”
“Kuttan,” his daddy said, “We are also Kuttan tried to “Son, we want you to do one thing for
to blame. We wanted to tell you but explain matters us,” said his daddy.
decided to do so when you are 10 years and asked “Whatever you ask, I will do willingly.”
old. A month before your birthday, you forgiveness but “Tell Ammini the whole truth. Coming
came from school and told us about a his fosterparents from you, it will be easier for her. Let her
friend of yours whose aunty and uncle had were too relieved not run the risk of ever coming to know the
adopted him. You said, ‘Poor chap, how and happy to truth as you did. Will you do this for us?”
sad to be an adopted child. I am so glad listen. “We will “Yes.”
you both are my real parents.’ After talk things over “Well, son, now you better go to bed.
hearing that, we decided not to tell you You must be very tired. You sleep in
at home,”
anything till you are an adult. Now, I feel Ammini’s room tonight. She has cried
they said.
that we should have told you. Then the hurt herself to sleep and may wake up in the
would have been much less to what you middle of the night. If she sees you next to
have undergone. Now, coming to the part of loving her, she will be happy.”
Ammini more, I want you to read your adoption “Good night, daddy, good night, mummy.”
papers and see for yourself what trouble we went “Good night, son.”
through to get you.” Kuttan went to sleep next to Ammini. She woke up
Kuttan found that his daddy had paid and, on seeing Kuttan, exclaimed, “You are back!”
Rs 20,000 as compensation for taking Kuttan from “Yes, now sleep, Ammini.”
his father. Kuttan was then shown another paper and As he fell asleep, Kuttan decided that he must tell
was stunned to read that Ammini too was Ammini how lucky they are to be adopted by their
adopted on the same terms and Verghese and his mummy and daddy. We
CRUISING
IN
he stark beauty of this icy
The largest and coldest state in the
T
wilderness as viewed from
the deck of the Golden
US offers breathtaking vistas of beauty. Princess was a gift I would
treasure for the rest of my
And a cruise can be unforgettable. life. Alaska, the name
conjured up freezing cold, a
By Amrinder Bajaj
snow-submerged landscape
and little else. The weather
was surprisingly mild, for it
was summer and the peak tourist
season; the ice had melted in most
parts and covered distant mountains
in a most enchanting manner. Our
ship, the Golden Princess, was a
floating palace that glided smoothly
over blue waters, leaving a frothy trail
behind. I had never been on a cruise
before and such opulence took my
breath away. Maybe, this was the
best but I had no precedent to
compare it with. It had 17 floors. Up
to deck 4 was reserved for a staff of
1200 people while the 2,800 high end
tourists, chiefly Americans, occupied
the state-rooms with private
balconies from decks 5 to 12. Our
rooms were comfortable though the
TREATMENTS
that gave birth to the legend
of the mermaid. BALDNESS
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SRI LANKA:
Two of the DALADA AND
SRI MAHABODHI
most sacred
places for
Buddhists raise
some interesting TEMPLES
the 6 pm ritual service and got room with walls lined with glass
questions. special permission required to cases where gold ornaments and
participate to enter the sanctum other offerings of the devotees are
By Zareen Myles sanctorum for a darshan of the on display. We then climb a narrow
sacred casket holding the relic. staircase to the second floor another
o the Sri Lankan Buddhists At the time of the evening service tiny room.
T
nothing is more sacred than ritual, 3 drummers and one pipe Leading from this is another,
the Tooth Relic in Kandy, or player take their place in front of the smaller room, the threshold of which
the Bodhi Tree in Anuradha- door leading to the sanctum is made of pure silver. One must not
pura. The Tooth Relic is the sanctorum, and start playing on their step on it, but go over it so our feet
left canine tooth of the instruments. This signifies that the do not touch it. Inside the sanctum
Buddha, and had been sent door, hidden by a huge cloth with a sanctorum is the glittering dome
to Sri Lanka by King batik painting of the Buddha, is about shaped casket made of pure gold.
Guhasiva of Kalinga, India, to be opened and the rituals ready to Inside this casket are six more
in the 4th century AD for begin. caskets of gold and the tooth relic is
safekeeping. Since then Sri Lankan inside the seventh, innermost casket.
kings have safeguarded and revered
the Tooth Relic. It had first been sent
GATHERING This innermost casket is never taken
out.
to Anuradhapura, the flourishing REVERENTIALLY Two priests stand on both sides
capital at that time. Only after the fall People start gathering around, of the casket, in front of which is a
of Anuradhapura did it come to waiting reverentially, while those who large silver tray filled with fresh
Kandy, about 500 years ago. have taken permission to go inside, sweet-smelling jasmine flowers,
It is said that about 300 years ago, stand in a line at one side. After which are given to the devotees to
there was a period of continuous some time priests come, remove the offer. There is also another tray in
drought for three years. The relic was cloth painting and the door made of which devotees put their offerings.
then taken out in a procession, and it pure solid silver is opened. There is no way that anyone can
not only rained, but also flooded. A little later when signalled, the even touch the casket. The room is
Since that time it has never been devotees who have prior permission, very tiny and the long line of
taken out. go in one by one. As we enter the devotees waiting to come in, makes it
We visited the Dalada Temple for little door we find ourselves in a tiny impossible to really look around at
exercise
Some
myths
● Exercise automatically
about fat, weight, diet and food.
A common- The irony is that a weight-loss
prevents heart disease.
● Exercise cancels fat.
sense diet damages your body’s largest
contributor to fat-burning. That fact
● Weight gain is inevitable as
you age.
approach triggers a vicious circle. After your
weight-loss diet has caused a
● Exercise is a fabulous way to
lose weight.
to keeping deterioration of fuel-burning muscle,
you find yourself gaining fat more
William Evans of the University
of Arkansas says, “Exercising does
fit. easily. not burn a lot of calories. Walking a
Fuelling means learning to work mile burns 100 calories. But sitting
By K. with the way the body works and not still burns 50 calories! The reality
Janakiraman the way you think it works. The is, the more you exercise, the more
backlash against dieting is a leap fit you get. The better conditioned
out of the frying pan into the fire – you are the more fat you burn
ost of us do not know from one unhealthy extreme,
M
because your muscles adapt to
how to eat, to fuel our ‘dieting’, to another, ‘fatness’. What using an enzyme that oxidises fat.”
bodies for high works is neither of these. If you can “You cannot be fit and fat,” “no
performance – or even predict accurately how your body pain, no gain,” etc. are oft-repeated
to meet our basic needs. acts and reacts, you can fuel myths. The less said about them
As a result of our yourself accordingly and that the better.
reading inappropriate understanding is crucial to the sense
literature on fitness and of ownership that makes fuelling the activity and keeps it somewhat
health, we diet, restrict, something you want to and not have elevated afterward.
control and regiment ourselves. to do. Basic science shows what While exercise is not a panacea,
Body fuelling will change all that works, what does not and what is it has consistently been shown to
and provide a user-friendly optimal. relieve both depression and anxiety.
education about eating and fitness The muscle is responsible for It is only a matter of reduced
that deprogrammes diet-thinking. burning the food that you eat. As the physical activity levels and lower
One has to see what will really only significant metabolically active metabolic rate that cause
work and move from having to tissue in the body, it is the largest overweight. With the loss of lean
change ‘one’s eating’ to ‘wanting to determinant of your metabolism. body mass, the basal metabolic rate
fuel one’s body’ and, most More muscle means more fuel is goes down.
important, freedom from concern needed. Less muscle means less The percentage of body fat
www. KadyanOverseas.Com
The baksheesh
culture in Egypt
can be enormously
irritating but the
sights of Cairo are
absolutely
breathtaking.
By D. B. N. Murthy
CAIRO DIARY
on’t be surprised when any for it. “Be an Egyptian in Egypt,” is a paintings we wanted. He assured us
D
service provider requests, or good piece of advice. in his impeccable English, “Don’t you
rather demands, baksheesh worry, sir! I shall give you a good
in Egypt! That became clear price.” He then drew our attention to
when my wife and I landed CONDUCTED TOUR a striking painting of the Last
at the Cairo International Without losing much time, the next Judgement where a person’s heart,
Airport recently. I had to buy morning we were off on a whirlwind after his/her death, would be weighed
a phone card, costing 17 tour of the Giza Pyramids, Sphinx, against a feather in the presence of
Egyptian pounds (about 6 Saqqara and Memphis. Our cab God Anubis and God Thuth who
Egyptian pounds = 1 US driver, Ahmed, a part-time employee writes down the result. God Horus
dollar) just to make a phone call, but of the hotel, acted as our guide. He would lead those who had passed
there was no other way. I recalled had a smattering of English, which the test into paradise.
how easy it was to use a coin- helped us to communicate. The first Time and again he asked us to
operated phone or a manned stop was not ours but Ahmed’s. He buy it because “it gives you an idea
STD/Local call booth back home. ushered us into a posh shop selling of ancient Egypt.” Seeing our
The hotel I had booked in papyrus. It was called the Egypt hesitation on looking at the price tag,
downtown Cairo had not sent a Papyrus Museum. he gave us a deal. He’d give us two
vehicle, though I had requested for The smartly dressed manager for the price of one, if we bought the
it. The person at the car park had a greeted us with a smile. “First of all, Last Judgment.” I looked at my wife
smattering of English. let me extend our Egyptian hospitality who looked confused too. “Sir, this is
“I shall give you the receipt,” he to you. What would you like to drink?” genuine stuff. I shall give you our
said seeing my hesitation when he We settled for a soft drink which was certificate of guarantee. You will not
demanded E£55 (prepaid) for a taxi refreshing in the sweltering heat. We get such a wonderful painting
trip to hotel. I paid him the money but were invited to watch the process of anywhere else. The long and the short
he asked, “What about my tip, sir?” preparing papyrus — from the raw of it was that I fell for the deal and had
The silent cab driver drove us plant to the final sheet on which to part with E£ 500. The touts offering
safely and to the correct address. painting is done. My wife wanted a camels and horse-drawn vehicles
When I tipped him E£2, he said, “Sir, picture to be taken of her holding a pestered visitors right in front of the
that’s too small.” So I had to shell out papyrus plant “grown on our own policemen who were supposed to
E£3 more to satisfy him. That farm,” as that gentleman put it. prevent such harassment. In fact,
became the “normal” practice and Then it was time for a tour of the some of the law-enforcers would pose
soon I was tipping left, right and museum with a card in hand to make for photographs with the visitor and
centre without anyone even asking a note of the numbers of the ask for baksheesh later on! We
5 6 7 8
9 10 11 12
✂
CONTEST
1 2 3 4 5 6 7
L I
Tear along the dotted line and mail to Crossword No. 151 Woman’s Era, Delhi Press, New Delhi-110 055.
O
8 9
A
10
A I
11 12
B
13 14
R
15
N
16 17
T D
18 19 20
Y
21
N H U
22 23
E
24
T
Across
1. To throw something somewhere in a
careless way (5)
1. To grow, spread or move in an
untidy way in different directions (8)
4. A structure that is built over a road, 2. Noun form for taking food, drugs,
railway / railroad, river, etc. so that etc. into your body, usually by
people or vehicles can across from swallowing (9)
one side to the other (6) 3. Something that you hope to
8. (of a group of people or an achieve (4)
organisation) not well organised; 5. A disease of dogs and other
giving a bad impression (6) animals that causes madness and
10. A relationship between two death. Infected animals can pass the
organisations or different disease to humans by biting them (6) Please accept my entry for the
departments in an organisation, 6. A system of government in which all
involving the exchange of the people of a country can vote to crossword competition. I
information or ideas (7) elect their representatives (9)
11. The main or general meaning of a 7. A period of time, usually in history, subscribe to all the rules and
piece of writing, a speech or a that is different from other periods
conversation (4) because of particular characteristics regulations of the competition.
13. Gigabyte (2) or events (3)
14. A type of strong cloth made of wool, 9. To speak quickly in a way that is Name
used for making clothes (5) difficult to understand, often
15. The part of the body around the hips because of fear (6)
between the waist and the tops of 12. To go with or in front of a person or
Down
Vestaltina Dias,
Kaushlender, Faridabad. Anita Dunn, Mumbai.
Chickmagalor.
- 148
T
Y P H O T O
Gaziabad. ew Delhi.
Munish Jain,
Jaideep Dhadda, Jaipur. J. C. Jindal, N
a.
Begam, Kolkat Binita Kakati, Guwahati. man, Tanjore.
Nurum Nesa Deepthy Jess
athura. Chandigarh.
Lalit Kumar, M Anita Gupta, Gurgaon. Vijay Kumar,
Answers to Crossword-148
n w in
Across: 1. Monger, 6. Import,
8. Long, 9. IIT, 10. Leave,
w i o rd
11. Terror, 14. All, 16. Nought,
17. Boa, 18. Erase, 20. Chat, n
i ur w
22. Genome, 23. Stand, 24. Erode
W yo wer
Down: 1. Milit
ant, 2. Nun, 3.
4. Appeal, 5.
, 13.
Drive, 7. Ti
Rate, 15. Tand
e,
Rid,
em,
o n p o
12. R ough . Clot,
19. Rog ue, 20
17. Beyond,
21. Toad
Q&
you can help so that I can return
doctor will prescribe. Once the to India permanently?
vicious cycle of infection-medication Some people are hypersensitive
My son is 16 months old and quite is broken you can concentrate on to mosquito bites, especially when
an active child. He was a chubby improving his appetite and health. there is a change of region as in the
child in the first year of life and used Once his health is regained, his case of your son. Others develop
to eat properly. Of late, he has resistance will improve and he will be hypersensitivity when there is a
repeated bouts of some ailment or able to combat diseases better. Do change of season for the species of
the other which makes him feel not force-feed him. mosquito changes with the season.
nauseous and he loses his appetite. Meticulously prevent mosquito bites
Sometimes, he gets gastrointestinal by liberally smearing the exposed
symptoms and at others high fever I am an NRI working in Saudi Arabia. parts with mosquito repellents. Anti-
with malarial symptoms. Then there I would like to come back and settle allergens and most other drugs are
is the usual cough and cold no matter in my own country with my wife and of no use. Some children do
how much care I take of him at home two children - a son aged six and a overcome this hypersensitivity by and
and while going out. All this has three-year-old daughter. A serious by. If not, as your doctor says, stay
resulted in loss of weight. By the time problem arises when we come to away from places that cause such a
he feels all right and regains his India even for a visit. Whenever my severe reaction.
appetite he falls sick again. I have
begun to force-feed him since I am I have a son who
worried about his health. I am worried is three years and My six-year-old daughter has
that repeated medication along with three months old. developed caries in a couple of teeth.
A
lack of proper nourishment will further He drinks milk Could you tell me why this has
lower his resistance. Please tell me only with the occurred and what should be done to
what to do. addition of cus - prevent further destruction of teeth.
First and foremost you have to tard. In this way Please tell me what I should do to
improve his health and resistance. he takes custard improve her dental hygiene.
Keep him away from areas where he thrice a day. I Caries occurs due to poor dental
is likely to catch infection – for want to know if this practice is safe hygiene. If the teeth are not properly
example crowded areas like market- for the child. He also eats roti , brushed after meals, food particles
places, cinema halls, etc. Also, do subzi, fruits, etc. remain in the gaps between teeth,
not take him in the vicinity of a child As your son is eating a resulting in the growth of bacteria.
with fever or any other infection. balanced diet besides the custard, These bacteria produce acid, which
Feed him freshly-prepared hygienic it is fine if he takes it with milk thrice in turn damages the enamel, the
food. If you are bottle-feeding him a day. If he was only on custard uppermost covering of the teeth,
even once a day stop it at once. Feed and milk then perhaps it would not which is supposed to be stronger
him with a small cup or with a spoon. have been such a good idea. You than bone.
Juices, if at all, are to be prepared at must watch his weight carefully. If Once the enamel is destroyed, the
home and consumed immediately there is a tendency to obesity you process spreads deeper down
preferably without ice. You have also could decrease the amount of affecting the dentin just below and
rightly pointed out that antibiotics also custard and sugar in his milk, finally the pulp. This causes pain as
lead to diarrhoea since they kill the otherwise go ahead with the routine the nerve roots are exposed. So
good protective bacteria too. These you are following. consult a dentist at the earliest and
can be replaced by probiotics that his do as he advises.
I way to spring,
midnight
for class
oil with the
X and XII,
which begin
this, exam-rela
in the
ted stress
among the
examinatio
ensuing board first week of
and anxiety
students,
are The
but also
trounced place
incident took , where around fortyand bashed up
city in Karnataka barged into
right-wing
group
women just
a pub
two days
members
before the
Republic
THE POWER OF
Day.
OF STUDENTS
among their on the students is percentag e marks. The attackers wine there brought Sri
Pressure high parents and in drinking The attack also n’s chief,
to secure indulged
like targetingpressure from the
peers, It culture forbids. Arrest of
organisatio Bharat
to the students. great Hindu
Sometime
s,
dose of stressbecause of such into limelight. its links with Abhinavgaining
give an extra Ram Sena revealed on
that step of
POSITIVE THINKING
n-related
examinatio g began new
counsellin till 2nd April, Rashtra within indication that
of CBSE continue e year It is a clear Taliban mindset
are
It would
February. is the 12th consecutiv g
perpetrato
rs of
in the country
counsellin
2009. This providing heads
has been during raising their
The editorial in WE
that CBSE students and parents
through positiv
g, CBSE of moral
counsellin as a
rs, Interactive counselling through more the namefirst time that women’s this incident
newspape and online out to more and
thinking.
not the also terming
NEGATIVE
of are not
counsellor psycholog and abroad. some comments n for Women wounds.
y in India
private schools; help line
individuall the cities of Delhi, Commissio salt on the e
GET
in National a progressiv
operate this centres in India Gurgaon, also rubbing the fact that in
39 Jaipur, taste, but far greater
There are h, Meerut, Jamnagar, There is no denying women are playing and must
Chandigar ar, Vishakhapatnam, from six that of India, tion. They should be male
RID OF
Noida,
Bhubanesw the first time society like used to
THOUGHTS
transforma
Faridabad, e and for Guwahati, in social that once
Bangalore There are roles
Negative Thoughts is
Coimbator those rights
Tackling
,
A
who
through If our and was happy students exams positively of young
mental attitudes. that pleased in the team facing the All the best
to millions
to magnify mind and boldly.
are positive, are everyone
thoughts He began The face the exams
but if they and except himself. unnecessarily. (Second) 2009
provoking. It reminded
Small mistakes to
me the words of anxiety faced by the students and one can add one more ritual which is
After three
Norman Vincent Peale who parents is on the rise. Millions of ‘Reading’. Reading habit is a good
advocated positive thinking. He said, students will be burning the midnight habit which the younger generation
“Change your thoughts and you oil with the ensuring board examin- has failed to develop. In my opinion
change your world.” No one can ations for class X and XII. the story ‘Homecoming’ was simply a
expect to achieve perfection or to Pressure on the students is due to disaster. I continued reading it in
solve satisfactorily every difficult many reasons-reasons like targeting search of some actual story or some
problem that arises throughout life. to secure high percentage marks. thing at least at the end. When I
But a positive attitude and Sometimes pressure from the peers, finished, I was puzzled and uttered
constructive approach help us to parents and teachers give an extra “Hmm...was it a fiction?” We all are
tackle troubles optimistically, by using dose of stress to the students. familiar with the traditional weddings.
our talents and skills in ways directed Because of these pressures, many Also, young people who work/study
towards success rather than failure students take the extreme step of abroad don’t prefer to come back and
To acquire the positive outlook we committing suicide, when they feel settle down in India is a century-old
have first to eliminate from our that they could not keep up the fact. There is no story in it to tell!
personality the negative thoughts that expectations of others and secure Only thing I can say good about this
hold us back, make it harder to high marks. To overcome their is that the author is ingenious
secure good relationship with others. anxiety and examination related regarding the language he has used.
The positive and constructive stress, the first phase of CBSE – Beena Ramesh Hegde,
approach to life demands energy, counselling began from Ist February, Ahmedabad.
action and enthusiasm to accomplish and it will continue till 2nd April 2009. The prize is awarded to:
worthwhile things in life. This is the 12th consecutive year that Beena Ramesh Hegde, Ahmedabad.
– Beena Mathur, Pune. CBSE has been providing
counselling services to students and WOMAN'S ERA
invites readers’
parents during examinations.
FILM STARS opinions and
– Anthony Sanders, Mumbai. reactions on
AY F I L
M D O M SELF-CENTRED?
B O M B
articles, short stories
This refers to
Slumdog
R
ahul Bose
feels that
was the
best comm
-
Rahul's adopted
the Mumbai Andaman and Nicobar Foundatio n,
trust, The
after charitable d in the Mumbai
children from his
Islands for
the
Marathon.
any sort of and features published
GOOD WAYS
es tale Marathon especially participate
ags-to-rich at the to happen He feels runs to eradicate He feels
hit the jackpotwinning unity event terror attacks.
R Millionaire
66th Golden
Globe Awards,including the
recent
even after
the recent and in
The trust
attacks the discrimination from
society.
the Andaman
children from don't feel
coveted awards up in that spirit die ly that these
not let its
Bombay Filmdom
Islands
TO ENERGISE
show, .
screenwrit atmosphe think in terms in a city are currently in Bangalore
Danny Boyle,composer A.R. Rahman We needed to niece Aalia minds Valley School
Beaufoy and thanked leave my is the
score. Boyle Asso- want to of million on the block With
YOURSELF
Shah's LondonDevgan starrer.
Ajay often been
Khan and beauty has
to-adopt
28
Bipasha
is extremely her as
consider
looking. I long
very good me a very to
It will take
my mentor. where she is."
time to get
to difference
Soha Al your life.
TO FEEL
ENERGISED
or by post to:
Bachchan does not like that film article Simple ways to EVERY DAY
producer earning millions at the cost feel energised every AS YOU SAY
of our poverty. Rajya Sabha member day (February I) for its
Nargis had also raised the same E-3 Jhandewala Estate, New Delhi-110055.
brevity and cajoling presentation. Womansera.com
question when Pather Panchali got This reminded me of the novel ‘The
several prizes in the West. monk who sold his Ferrari’ written by Name:
Film stars are playing in crores. Robin Sharma. Julian, one of the Mobile:
But they do not try to help poor characters relinquishes all his wealth E-mail: