On either side of the road, the mountains rise up in vertical faces of rock, creating a violent, totally inhospitable, landscape. Like the ruins of an ancient civilisation. As far as the eye can see, is a sepia-toned world – all rock and sand. Even the river rushing far below with amazing power is murky, carrying tons of eroded soil with it. It seems like nothing could survive here, or would want to, and then suddenly, impossibly, you see clusters of purple and yellow wild flowers, or a village perched high on a ledge in the rock face, cultivating apples.

The road rises climbs steadily up all the way to the village of Nako, where suddenly the steep rock faces give way to more gentle slopes of sand and rock. And what a display of rocks it is! White, pale yellow, beige, chocolate brown, deep red, purple, and the darkest black – it’s a geology lesson in motion.

The bus ride to the Spiti Valley was one of the most humbling experiences of my life. The immensity of the Himalayas is awe-inspiring, and the landscape so alien in this high altitude desert, that you can only marvel at the tenacity of the people who live and work in such harsh conditions.

The journey itself is quite an adventure, and certainly not one for queasy-stomachs. The Hindustan Tibet Highway, which we took, runs from Shimla through the Kinnaur region of Himachal, right up to Spiti Valley, and being a border road, it is kept open year-round, but only just barely. There are constant landslides and during the winter, this region is often under several feet of snow. As a result the road, despite being a national highway, is little more than a dirt track in some parts, and the going is slow and bumpy.

Spiti is an area soaked in Buddhist tradition, so the main thing to see here apart from the stunning landscapes, are the five ancient monasteries – at Tabo, Pin Valley, Dhangkar, Ki and Komic.

The most accessible of these is the Tabo monastery, founded in 996, and one of the most beautiful monuments I have ever seen. The word ‘monument’ actually doesn’t describe it very well. From outside, the monastery is a collection of unassuming, short, mud and stone structures with no colour whatsoever. There are nine temples in the monastery compound, all of which stay locked except for in the morning when the lamps are lit, and on special occasions. But there are plenty of people who are involved in the upkeep of the monastery and anyone of them is more than happy to open up the temple and let you have a look.

Entering the main temple, (the ‘Temple of the Enlightened Gods’!) was really like going back a thousand years. At the further end of the small room is a large four sided statue of Buddha, and on the walls surrounding it are paintings of 1,000 Buddhas, each one distinct in its appearance. Suspended on the walls of the temple are life-sized and statues of the Boddhisattvas. On every wall and all over the ceilings are delicate murals, apparently created by Buddhist painters who were brought from Kashmir. 

The experience at the temple is enhanced by the fact there are no artificial lights inside the monastery. So the paintings are lit by streaks of sunlight that come from openings in the roof and the very faint light from the lamps. We were allowed to shine torches on whatever we wanted to see, but no photography is allowed even without flash, without special permission from the Archaeological Survey of India’s offices in Shimla.

Across the main road from Tabo are some steep sandy slopes and a ten minute walk uphill brings you to an old cave settlement. There is also another small monastery near the caves with paintings in similar style to the monastery below. This was apparently where the monks used to live and pray before the Tabo monastery was built. Some of the caves even have a door or a window built in, and some are still used for meditation.

About an hour and a half by road from Tabo, is Dhangkar. This old capital of the Spiti Valley is like a fortress city, a collection of whitewashed mud houses protected by forbidding spiky cliffs from above and a steep climb below. It was around six thirty in the evening as we drove in, and cows, yak, donkeys, sheep and goats suddenly erupted from every direction and came racing down the cliffs towards the village. All the hundreds of cattle of the entire village were all being herded home together. It’s a beautiful sight, and with a good vantage point you can see all the cattle criss-cross their way down the hill sides and find their way home.
The Dhangkar monastery itself is a very simple affair after the Tabo experience, but what makes it special is the way it is perched on top of a cliff at an impossible angle, threatening to fall off. This monastery is actually in danger of falling apart, and efforts are on to preserve its heritage.

The Spiti Valley is fast becoming a stop for people, especially backpackers, on the route to Leh-Ladakh, so trekking is a pretty well organised activity here, and there are several local companies who also provide organised tours of the region, but if you have time, this is also a region that you can easily explore on your own. The people are wonderfully warm and hospitable, and it is one of the safest places I have come across, especially for women.

In most parts of the Spiti Valley you can get accommodation at homestays, and it is in fact wise to stay at one of the traditional mud houses, which are much better equipped to deal with cold than newer concrete constructions. These mud houses stay warm in the winter and remain cool in the summer. In winter, even though its freezing outside, with temperatures dropping to twenty or thirty below zero, once the fire is lit in the tandoor-like room heater, it is often a comfortable twenty or twenty five degrees indoors.

As a result, winter tourism is something that is also getting started here. In the months of summer, the locals are all busy on their fields from dusk to dawn, making use of the short period of warmth to grow what they can and earn their living. But the long months of the winter are reserved for celebrations – birthdays, weddings and religious festivities because conditions are too harsh for any kind of outdoor work. So to really see the living culture of Spiti, winter is the time to go. 

Getting there: The Kunzum Pass, which is the easier and shorter route to take into Spiti (10 hours to Kaza from Manali), usually opens sometime in June and stays open till September, so this is when most tourists make their way to the Valley. It is also when the routes within the valley are also mostly open. Daily buses run from Manali in the season, and there are also taxis available for hire, either on an individual or share basis.

In the off-season, the route we took (the Hindustan-Tibet highway) usually stays open from Shimla, with buses from there stopping overnight at Rekong Peo before heading on to Kaza, the administrative capital of the Spiti Valley.

Getting around in Spiti: Two daily buses run on the main highway through the valley in the summer from Kaza in the north to Changpo in the South. But not all the destinations lie on this route and to get off the route, you have to hire a taxi or enquire locally about the timings and regularity of share taxis. The other option, if you’re fit and have time on your hands, is to walk and hitch-hike, both perfectly safe options during the day.

Health advice: Spiti is a high-altitude desert, which means that the oxygen levels in the air are pretty low. It is very advisable to do the travel to the valley in stages and rest for a day or two to acclimatise before starting any trekking or other strenuous activities.

The baby of the family, actress Sameera Reddy is the youngest of three glamorous sisters. And, that probably is the best thing that happened to this actor. Having been introduced to the ways of the glam world quite early in her life, Sameera has straddled the worlds of Bollywood and cinema in the South with ease and élan. She has also held her own, despite not being recognised as one of the top sirens on B-town. With absolutely no film background, Sameera has slowly, but surely carved a niche for herself, working with some of the leading names in the Indian film industry. 

In this monologue, Sameera talks about her upbringing, her foray into films, and what’s in store for the future. Rhea Makhija listens intently…

‘Growing up, I was pampered’

“I live with my parents and sister in Bandra, Mumbai. For me, being the youngest child has been the best thing a girl could ask for. My childhood was a happy one –reading a lot, getting pampered and having every demand fulfilled (giggles)! My mom has been very inspiring and has brought us up to be sincere at our work, to do our best. She has always given us the support we needed. When Meghana wanted to start modelling, dad refused but mom gradually got him to agree. She has been my pillar of support too though she doesn’t interfere with my work. But I am closest to her. My family has always had lots of expectations from me, but they have made sure never to burden me with them. 

One of the best things mom has taught us is to donate some amount of our income to charity. I have set up an orphanage in a suburb in Mumbai, and I go there whenever I can. I have someone managing the place for me and my mom also helps out.” 

‘We are very close as sisters’

“Sushama is the eldest followed by Meghana and then me. We are very different, yet we are very close. We do everything together! Now that Meghana is overseas, I make it a point to meet her whenever I travel. Sushama is helping me decorate the new apartment that I have bought (smiles). She is completely responsible for my house, though when I travel and something does interest me, I pick it up. The three of us are really strong and it will always be like that.”

 ‘My career has not been predictable’

“I have enjoyed working in Hindi, Tamil, Telugu and Malayalam cinema. Each place has a different approach to filmmaking and it has been a great learning curve. I do share a great rapport with my co-stars, some are friends and with some, my relationship is cordial and professional.

‘Working with Suriya and Gautam Menon was a brilliant experience’

“I was lucky to get a chance to work with Suriya in Vaaranam Aayiram. Working with Gautam was a brilliant experience. What I like the most about him is that he simply takes the actor out of you and makes the character shine. He has this uncanny knack for eliciting a performance from you that surprises everyone including yourself! As far as Suriya is concerned, he not only is a great co-star but a good person too; it’s always fun shooting with him. I thoroughly enjoyed working with both these talented people.” 

‘Mohanlal is an institute of acting’

“I have worked in Ooru Naal Varum, a Malayalam film where I played Mohanlal’s wife. The character I portrayed was simple, believable and real. Mohanlal himself is an institute of acting and he makes things simpler by putting you in a comfort zone when you are working with him. I have learnt a lot from just observing him.” 

‘I enjoy working in Hindi as well as South films’

“I don’t think one can compare or draw differences between Hindi cinema and cinema of the south. No matter what kind of cinema, as an actor, your job is to perform and do full justice to the role that has been given to you. I enjoy all the four regions of cinema that I have worked in and each one of it teaches you something or the other in its own way.”

‘I play a Dalit woman in my next film’

For the moment, I am looking forward to my next film. It is called Yeh Hausla and I am playing a dalit woman, It is a Nagesh Kukoonoor film. The film was shot in the outskirts of Jodhpur in Rajasthan and shooting with Nagesh means just disconnecting yourself from urban life. 

There are a couple of other projects that I am looking forward to as well. There is Prabhu Deva’s next film with Vishal, Lingusamy’s Vettai and Priyadarshan’s Tezz and I am currently shooting for them.

As an actor, I have played various roles, but I personally think comedy is the most challenging. It is not easy to have a sense of comic timing that can make people laugh. A good sense of comic timing is what is important to appear funny on screen. I would love a role where I have comic scenes to enact. 

‘I am in a happy place right now’

I am happy balancing time between work and family. I am not looking for a man per se, but the kind of person I would be attracted to is someone with a sense of humour and someone I can get along very well with. Personality matters most to me. But a relationship is not priority right now, I am in a happy place…

‘I have a separate wardrobe for my denims’

Fashion for me is all about comfort. That is all I look into when I plan to get my hands on something to wear. Style according to me is a personal and distinctive aspect of a person and has nothing to do with regions. Louis Vuitton tops the list for me in terms of the brand I like the most. My favourite attire though is jeans and a tee – I actually have a separate wardrobe for my denims.

When I joined the industry, I never thought of myself as a fashion icon. I love dressing up and luckily, I have not had any fashion disasters or wardrobe malfunctions so far. Currently, I am in love with a red Chanel dress my sister Sushama has. I keep borrowing it, much to her dislike (grins). My biggest shopping indulgence though has not been clothes. It would have to be my BMW 7 series!

Actor Gibran has his hands full – playing the roles of actor and entrepreneur. In this conversation with Karuna Amarnath, he talks about how much he loves doing both and is raring to go!

Lounging around in his workout gear, actor Gibran Osman has a new-found spring in his step. Looking absolutely focused and determined, the brawny VJ-turned-actor now dons the entrepreneur’s hat as well, thanks to the launch of Splendid Health Mix. “Entrepreneurship has always been a part of who I am. I have been groomed into our family business from the time I was 15. It’s just that the product is different, but the foundation is strong,” he smiles as we sit down to chat over a piping hot cup of coffee. And, having been in the food business for the past 15 years, it was only time before they ventured into it professionally, “My mother has single-handedly managed it so far, and now I would like to take it to the next level.” 

A tried-and-tested formula 

Gibran has been eating Splendid Health Mix since he was a child – as a quick meal, for breakfast and mainly for instant energy before a workout. So, when the thought of launching something ‘healthy’ came up, this concoction was the best option. “I have grown up on this recipe and know the benefits of it. Unfortunately, people these days don’t have time to make these things at home because they are always on the move. So we decided to contemporise this age-old recipe and repackage it so that it can reach out to more people!” he tells us. More than the research that went into making this product, replacing the so-called ‘fatty’ ingredients with other options was their biggest challenge. “We had to go back to the basics and experiment with various ingredients so that the end-product is as good as the original. For instance, the original recipe has ghee, which would not go down to well with customers; we replaced sugar with palm candy… basically, conjuring up something that is healthy yet tasty is a big challenge,” he shares.  

‘Weight’ and watch

For Gibran, promoting a health mix means a lot more than just brand gimmicks. Family and well-wishers will remember an enthusiastic, chubby young man who played the role of a flasher (!) in his college play. “I think a lot of people lost their appetite after watching that play!” he guffaws. Jokes apart, that’s when realisation sunk in, and thanks to theatre, he became more aware. “I loved being on stage, but I knew that if I wanted to continue to do this, I couldn’t be ball,” he grins, “The process of losing weight was tough; if you ask me to do it again, I don’t think I will be able to do it. It is one long, tiring process and there are no two ways about it!” 

Hard work, as they say, pays. In Gibran’s case, he became one of the leading VJs on television, a compere par excellence and in quick succession, a film actor. 

VJ to actor

“I enjoyed being myself on television. It was the best job I could have asked for; everything about it was superb,” he smiles. While VJing was taking up most of his time, Gibran also got on stage whenever he had some time. “Theatre is an actor’s medium, so I was getting a bit of both and was enjoying it thoroughly,” he tells us.

Then, cinema happened by chance. “Cinema is a larger medium and that’s what makes people tick. The kind of people I have met and the experiences in cinema have brought about a huge change in me. In television, I didn’t have to change – I was chosen for who I am. So, I am still taking it all in. Since I have no connections in the film world or a ‘filmi background’ so to speak, the transition has been challenging. But, I am not in a hurry… taking things as they come,” he elaborates. 

 Staying focused 

For the moment, Gibran is reeling in the success of his performance in Notes of Silence that was showcased at the New York Indian Film Festival. He’s also working on a soon-to-be-released suspense thriller. In the meanwhile, growing Splendid Health Mix to reach a larger market is taking up a lot of his mind space. “There’s a lot to learn in terms of pricing, ingredients, shelf-life, promotion, different kinds of packaging, etc. The product is already in sixteen supermarkets, thanks to the amazing support we’ve got from all the retailers. But, we’ve not even tapped into 5 percent of the health food segment. With the constant promotion of Splendid Health Mix, we hope that we’ll be able to launch a new health product soon!” 

Tavishi Sahu walks into Orange Bicycle and Yellow Button – two unique stores in Indiranagar in Bengaluru – and finds the shopoholic in her on overdrive! 

Walking into the Orange Bicycle transports you into a different reality altogether. As I walked from one room to the other, I felt like all the things that I desired as a child were actually in front of me! And being an extremely picky shopper, I surprised myself because I can’t think of a single thing that I disliked! And as Gunjan Khaitan, one of the owners explains, the store does tell everybody’s story! 

The Orange Bicycle store is the brainchild of four women – with an experience in advertising, media, fashion design and banking. Although from diverse backgrounds, each of them has their own story to share – one built on ideas, creativity, talent and oodles of quirkiness! But, why the name? “When you look at the logo, you know it’s a store for the free-spirited woman, who wants to have the ‘shopping ride of her life’. And, orange because it’s a colour that represents creativity!” smiles Gunjan.   

The store stocks about 80 (!) independent brands from all over the country at present, and their selection is based on how unique the concept of the product is. They sell almost everything a girl needs; dresses from funk-for-hire, t-shirts from Rungarunga, chappals from Kilis, shoes from Diana Linda, pen drives from Kya Cheez Hai, diaries from Chumbak, fancy clocks, flower pots, suitcases… As you can imagine, the list is exhaustive. Every product is completely out-of-the-box – quirky, kitsch, boho and colourful. 

“Considering the wide range of products that we offer, the price begins from Rs 15 to Rs 12,000,” explains Gunjan, adding that there’s something for every budget. It is difficult to choose one stand-out product because such a store is a first in Bengaluru. “We thought Bengaluru needed a store like this; kitsch is currently popular and hasn’t developed in a big way here,” she elaborates. Their USP: the overall theme and sheer range!  

It did take me some effort to peel myself away from the store and head to Yellow Button. After the addictive energies in Orange Bicycle, I prepped myself for the worst! Yellow Button is a sufficient remedy to beat the heat. If you are looking for breezy summer dresses, bright cotton tops and lots of junk jewellery, this is your den. “The store is like a splash of sunshine in your wardrobe. “They say good things come in small packages, just like the Yellow Button!” grins the owner, Madhavi Rongala. 

Having worked as an investment banker in the States, Madhavi got tired of the dull routine and decided to follow her passion – clothes, shoes, bags! “I’ve always wanted to start a small store for clothes and accessories. It is one of the things that I’ve always loved,” she elaborates. For a tiny ‘hole in the wall’ located off Indiranagar, 100 Feet Road, the store houses some of the best cotton and silk dresses, tops, summery flip flops, earrings, pillow covers, cane and plastic baskets etc.

The USP of the store would be the bright floral print summer dresses, perfect for the weather. The highlight of this store is the plastic baskets from the MRM foundation, Chennai in various colours and designs! All priced between Rs 200 to Rs 8,000. Besides the summer fun, they also have silk bags from Chattisgarh priced at Rs 400, herbal soaps, and anarkali salwar-kameez sets from various designer labels ranging from Rs 7,000.One thing that makes this store unique is that it promotes several NGO’s efforts to provide employment to artisans who create handmade clothes.

The other brands showcased include Kya Cheez Hai, Chumbak, United Designers and Black Sheep. While most of the products stick to the ‘girly’ theme, the store lacks a good range. But, there’s more to look forward to, “I’ve always wanted to have my own designer line and I’m planning on expanding the store soon,” she signs off. 

Verdict: If you are looking for something boho, unique, kitsch or simply something out of the box, Orange Bicycle is your answer. But if you are looking for some summery clothes and interesting bags, try Yellow Button.

Rating: Orange Bicycle: 4/ 5; Yellow Button: 3/5

HOT: The colourful and quirky range at Orange Bicycle; summer dresses and baskets at Yellow Button. What works for Orange Bicyle is the kitsch theme that runs through all its products.

NOT: Yellow button could expand its range while Orange Bicycle should categorise its store for easier access of products. Yellow Button loses out due to its location and the fact that products that are sold here can be found elsewhere. Also the theme is outdated. 

Orange Bicycle is at House No 3353, 5th Cross, 12th "A" Main, HAL 2nd Stage, 

Yellow Button is at House 787, 12th Main, 1st Cross, Off 100 Feet Raod, HAL 2nd Stage, Indiranagar, Bengaluru 560038. Contact: 080-25262108, 09741511733 Indiranagar, Bengaluru 560038. Contact: 080-41255242, riders@theorangebicycle.in 

Accessory designer Aishwarya Srikkanth gives us the low-down on her fashion fundas and must-haves in this zippy Q&A with Karuna Amarnath

Tell us about how you get your daily dose of fashion…

I love to read; I buy almost every fashion magazine there could possibly be! I swear by Vogue UK and Harpers Bazar. I also follow the top fashion houses and designers like Halston, Karl Lagerfeld and Marc Jacobs on Twitter.

What are your fashion obsessions?

Shoes and bags … a girl can never have too many!

Three fashion accessories you cannot live without…

I absolutely love my Chanel rose earrings, my Bottega Veneta champagne knot clutch and my Steve Madden Black pumps. They have been great investments and I have used them more than anything else I own.

What do you feel is 'the look' of this season?

This season, the runway saw bright, bold colours and crazy prints. The 'below the knee' look is what’s in – no more mini skirts and tiny dresses – its all about jumpsuits and maxi dresses in quirky patterns. Oversized clutches, platform wedges and statement accessories complete the look.

Five wardrobe must-haves for every girl…

1. A great pair of well-fitted jeans – dark wash is more versatile.

2. A white shirt – dressed up or down, it will always be chic.

3. A Little Black Dress – it will never let you down.

4. Black pumps – that extra half an inch, makes all the difference! And, it will complement almost all outfits.

5. Pearls – a good investment and will be eternal.

Handbags or belts? Which one would you rate over the other and why?

I am totally a handbags person! The most simple of outfits can be upgraded with a fab metallic hobo, a white patent clutch, or any other bag that makes a bold statement. Belts are also a big part of my wardrobe. It's amazing how a simple belt can totally modify an outfit!

When in doubt, wear…

The LBD, also known as the 'little black dress'. It is simple and classic, and can be styled in multiple ways with statement accessories for different occasions.

Do you endorse eco-friendly fashion? How? 

Being a major animal enthusiast, I prefer to use leatherette or faux leather. I also believe in making use of all the left over pieces of fabrics to avoid wastage.

If you could change the fashion capital of the world to Chennai for one day, what would you do and how?

For Chennai to develop into the fashion capital, it would need to expand in various areas, from haute couture to haute cuisine! It would require a broad mix of boutiques, and independent and concept stores, alongside more recognisable mid-to-high-end brands. It will need a range of inspiring stores to suit every fashion taste. The city would need to be particularly strong for chic women’s wear, high-end vintage, kids’ wear, footwear and lingerie.

Diamonds are a girl's best friend – your take.

Diamonds when worn give a sense of confidence and style. I believe diamonds definitely are a girl's best friend and that every girl should invest in diamonds; they bring to life any outfit and are absolutely beautiful too.

Name five most fashionable men and women. Why do you think their fashion quotient rocks?

1. Bianca Jagger – a true fashionista, socialite and style icon. Her style is brilliantly wearable and never seems dated.

2. Princess Rania of Jordan – beautiful and incredibly elegant, her style is sexy while maintaining sophistication.

3. Marc Jacobs – Creative Head of Louis Vuitton. His designs are classic yet eye-catching, his style is avant-grande-meets-chic conservative.

4. Diane Von Furstenberg – famous for the iconic wrap dress, her style represents modernity, grace and glamour. Her signature styles are iconic and make her a relevant force today.

5. YSL (Yves Saint Laurent) – most famous for creating the classic tuxedo suit for women. He created a platform for the designers of today. His style was bold and flamboyant, yet flattering and comfortable.

Tell us about the trends in handbags for the upcoming season. One word of advice to the readers…

Trends to look out for this season would be patchwork effect, which is a mix and match of colours. The Portfolio bag or oversized clutches aren't just for 'after dark' anymore. Also, faux fur is totally in! All I say is, be bold this season – bucket bags, portfolio clutches and evening minaudieres in hyper colours and crazy prints are what’s hot.

Three people you'd like to give a wardrobe makeover to. What would you do?

Amisha Patel: She’s pretty and petite but needs help when it comes to fashion! She should stick to simple styles that flatter her body instead of wearing something that might be in fashion but doesn't suit her.

Amrita Rao: Sonam Kapoor was right when she said that Amrita Rao needs a stylist on Koffee with Karan. She should wear clothes that are simple yet sexy.

Rani Mukerjee: She needs to wear the right western clothes or step out of her house wearing only sarees!

Fashion to you means…

…pure lifestyle. It can come in the form of a suggestion, a hint – like a pair of oversized sunglasses. It's about creating your own style, the way you look at life.

List your favourite places to shop around the world and why?

The high-street fashion as well discount stores housing major designer labels in New York are a must-visit. Apart from big brands, the vintage shops and markets in Milan are amazing; you can find the best deals on European fashion houses. And of course, Bangkok – shop till you drop and then some more! It is the best place to load up on clothes and accessories.

 Sujaya Rao, Chennai’s cupcake specialist, talks to Samyutha Balsubramaniam about cupcakes, London, crazy clients and her love for all things baked

The first thing that assaults you when you enter Sujaya Rao’s house is an adorable black spaniel, wagging its little stumpy tail at supersonic speeds. The next is an irresistible smell of baking, wafting from her kitchen, very effectively distracting you and making conversation or coherent thought difficult.

Sujaya and I settle into her comfortable black couches and it doesn’t take much to get her started about her life. Born and raised a Londoner, she moved to Chennai four years ago, after her wedding. What followed was a period of ‘not doing much’, as the corporate world didn’t appeal to her. It was while she was on the lookout for something to do that she hit upon the idea of making cupcakes. 

She didn’t just want to bake cakes, as there is a bakery on every street corner, “Cupcakes are special and their potential for personalisation is immense,” she tells us, adding that they are perfect party accompaniments, “I remember going to parties where the cake would be the choice of the birthday girl or boy and we all had to eat it, regardless of whether we liked it or not. Now cupcakes can be used to ensure a variety of flavours, colours and even shapes.”

Thus Snowflake Cupcake was born, with the catchy tagline ‘No two cupcakes are the same’. Sujaya credits her love for baking to shows on television and cookery books for the inspiration to start on her own. When she looked around, all she found were basic cakes in the shape of cupcakes, with very limited flavours and colours. So she decided to try her hand at it and what started as a period of trial-and-error, culminated in her taking a bunch of her cupcakes to an F4 (FYI: F4 is Face-to-Face Facebook Friends, who meet once a week on Wednesdays) meeting. “Within minutes, it was sold out and people were clamouring for more!” she smiles.

Her first order was for a friend’s fifteen-year-old daughter’s birthday party, where she made a hundred cupcakes, all different flavours and colours, personalised to every small detail. They were an instant hit and led to a Facebook page with 150 fans within the first week! There was no looking back from there. 

These days, Sujaya holds down a 9-to-6 job and rushes back home to start baking. In fact, she gets so engrossed that sometimes she is up till 5 am, ‘getting the icing just right’! Her clientele has grown purely through word-of-mouth and satisfied customers who keep coming back for more. So much so that she now makes between 150 and 200 cupcakes a week. She sources her ingredients from London, including her cupcake papers and sprinkles to ensure that only the best quality cakes are produced in her kitchen.

Talking about discovering her artistic side, Sujaya says, “I also make handmade sugar flowers and icing decorations, ranging from Mickey Mouse cupcakes to a transport themed birthday party order, with cars, buses, trams and bicycles. With 18 flavours, ranging from chocolate to key lime and amaretto, the colour of your choice and sprinkles to match, you can design your own cupcakes.” And if you can come up with two flavours and two colours, she might even name it after you, like the Sonia, named after actor Sonia Agarwal.

When we asked this graduate of Genetics and Microbiology (!) for the wackiest cupcake request to date, she shares, “A client wanted a meatloaf-flavoured cupcake for their dog!” She adds, “Savoury cupcakes are a new trend, with flavours such as cream cheese and bacon becoming popular.” 

Ask her about her future plans and when we’ll get to buy her cupcakes from a shop, she says, “I would love to open a place dedicated to cupcakes but I am not sure when or where it is going to happen. Until then, I am taking orders on my website and over the phone.” 

The smell of the cupcakes in her kitchen had me hypnotised, but unfortunately, I had to leave without tasting one because I had run out of questions for Sujaya… Hopefully, you’ll be able to have the (cup)cake, and eat it as well!

GET IT RIGHT

Sujaya has four different prices for her cupcakes

1. SNOWFLAKE: Cupcake with simple/no frosting – choice of cupcake flavour and Icing flavor; Rs 45 per piece

 2. SNOWSTORM: Cupcake with frosting and coordinating sprinkles; Rs 50 per piece

 3. BLIZZARD: Cupcake with handmade flowers and decorations; Rs 60 per piece

 4. NOVELTY: Made to order

Sujaya Rao can be contacted at www.snowflakecupcake.com or 9840562310

 

You could be seriously enraged with life or disinterested in the world around you, but you simply cannot turn a blind eye to the mystical beauty that practically leaps out of this land called Bali, says Madhavi Sahu 

It isn’t often that a single woman of marriageable age survives a family holiday without being completely exasperated and drained out with obvious mentions of a ‘suitable’ boy or talk about ‘body clock ticking’ through the entire journey! But I did, and without the expected annoyance.

I would say we are a rather conventional Indian family that may never involve a father-daughter duo sitting together and sipping beer discussing say George Clooney, Siddhartha Mallya or even cricket. So in short, family holidays for most of us, are like extended picnics when one is not sure what to do after the snacks and the ball games are over. 

Nevertheless, Indonesia was one such journey my family and I undertook together after a really long time. Bali, to be precise. That would be BALI! – With a deep sigh and a sheepish smile! We were welcomed by a quaint little airport – maybe smaller than the one in Jaipur – and English-speaking natives obviously accustomed to a large inflow of tourists. I say this because as we passed several statues and murals on our way to our hotel, the cab driver poured out a continuous string of stories of how similar Balinese and Indian cultures are. That they believe in the myths of Ramayana and Mahabharata with equal passion. And they worship them, very sincerely. We didn’t find that hard to believe as several king-size sculptures of Arjuna on the chariot or the asuras during war towered all around us, lined on both sides of the roads… photographers’ delight, indeed! 

This small yet magical island goes by several names: ‘the island of Gods’, ‘the last paradise’ and the ‘centre of the universe’. Bali is a land that probably has a magnet at its very heart. It is a feeling that is difficult to express unless experienced first-hand. You can almost feel the spirits under your skin, the ones that are rumoured to abide the place at every step. There are temples in Bali at gaps of a hundred metres, and no, that isn’t exaggeration at all. In fact all the streets (note: ALL!) are lined with intricate sculptures of the Buddha and artifacts of wood whether inside the stores or outside lying on bare ground as if they are only ‘art’ that constitutes their soil. 

Did I mention I had just finished reading the book Eat Pray Love, when I was in Bali? Those of you who have read it and liked it even marginally, would know exactly how enchanted I felt by just being there standing in the middle of this mysterious tropical island. And love, it was. What followed was a short yet beautiful journey of exploring Balinese culture and people…

Crafts Village 

Bali has an extensive variety of crafts to be explored. It’s a known fact that almost every family originating here is a family of artisans. The skill of each craft is passed dutifully onto the sons and grandsons over centuries. As part of a pre-planned tour, one can visit the homes of these craftsmen. Some of the famous ones are wood and stone carvings and Batik work on textiles. Extremely intricate, time-consuming and captivating in their aesthetics, wood carvings have led to a unique style of masks that Bali is famous for. Extremely colourful and ferocious in nature, Balinese masks are often inspired from asuras and dragons and are not for the weak-hearted! However, the lesser-known batik patterned masks are more feminine and subtle in nature. They can be bought directly from these artisans or at the flea market at huge bargains. But, a must buy!

Uluwatu Temple and Kecak Dance 

Uluwatu literally means the ‘rock at land’s end’. And that’s exactly what it was – a high cliff at the northern tip of Bali beyond which lies only the wild sea! A temple at the tip of the hill with an open space in the centre for worshippers and dancers likewise. For me however, it was the most spectacular place to be visited in Bali. And it goes without saying that viewing the sunset from this point is by far the most amazing experience I’ve had in recent times. But what makes it all the more enchanting is the Kecak Dance which is performed everyday during sunset. Also known as the monkey chant from the Ramayana, this dance depicts the Vanara Sena helping king Rama in fighting the evil Ravana. It is performed by a group of 150 dancers wearing merely a waist cloth and holding goblets of fire in their hand. With the misty rain-ridden air as backdrop, and dancers swaying atop a steep cliff, this is one the most dramatic visuals that will stay with you for long!

Balinese Massage 

Need I say more? If on a vacation, by the sea, amidst a lovely tropical island and a rich culture as this, what could be the last word for relaxation, if not for a long stretched out Balinese massage! These massages are usually a full-bodied treatment using reflexology and acupressure points to the person’s benefit. They use aromatic essential oils that are therapeutic, and oh yes, luxurious! A must must do…

Water Sports

Water sports in Bali are the latest, most-exciting attraction for a lot of tourists. For, not everyone can sit through an overdose of history and culture of Bali, you see. The place to go is Nusa Dua, which is on the east coast of Bali. The water sports start at US $20 and range from banana boat ride, para sailing, jet skiing, snorkelling and many others. 

Getting there: Regular flights from Chennai and Bengaluru via Kuala Lumpur connect Bali with Air Asia being the most convenient and cheaper option, if you can ignore the slightly crappy food on board.

Best time to travel: Most of the year is okay. 

Must Do: Gobble up the amazing array of seafood – don’t-come-back-without-trying-atleast-five-varieties! Vegetarians, err, carry handy packs of Cup-O-Noodles… Sorry! Buy lots of crafts at the Kuta flea market. You will fall in love with the creativity and the extent of bargaining! Make sure you visit the gorgeous beach at Jimbaran.

Must haves: An umbrella – it rains anytime, every time – and flip-flops. 

Note: Do not exchange money at the airport because they give terrible rates. 

 The first Middle Eastern street food restaurant, Yalla Yalla at the Radisson Hotel was launched in our city fairly recently. Minnie Menon shares her gastronomic experience…

Great ancient civilisations like India and the Middle East (which is a melting pot of countries) have a lot in common. We both experienced foreign invasions, bloodshed and the influx of different cultures. But the flipside is that we have a lasting legacy of exotic cuisines, which are incomparable in their flavour and uniqueness.

Yalla in Arabic means ‘let’s go’.  And what an outing it was! My perception of Radisson has been that it is a convenient transit hotel and boasts of one of the finest Indian restaurants – The Great Kabab Factory – which produces Indian delicacies with shop floor efficiency and quality. How perceptions change when you experience reality… mine certainly did.

This was my first visit to this six-month old restaurant.  A long rectangular 2,000 sq ft area which used to be the hotel’s nursery has been transformed to give diners their favourite street fare from the Middle East. The ambience is authentic. A high, white wooden trellis with tall palms nestling alongside runs the length of the restaurant. There is a row of tables with an open grill in-between. Sofas with sheeshas strategically placed along with beanbags for one’s lounging comfort complete the picture. 

Yalla Yalla exudes a welcoming enclosed verandah-like feel. In Mumbai, street food is becoming increasingly popular with the swish set. Yalla Yalla is a high-end informal eatery, which is far more reassuring. As soon as I entered, I headed straight to a bean bag and sank into it. I was engulfed with a feeling of gay abandon which one seldom experiences in a star restaurant. A street feel with star trappings is a combination which works well with business travellers, expats and global locals who want to unwind.

Starters are a must in Middle Eastern fare; I opted for the delicious Kibbeh Shamiya – a crispy oval shell of cracked wheat stuffed with finely ground lamb seasoned with onions and nuts, and piping hot Falafel (ground chickpeas in perfectly round shapes). There were some appetising dips as accompaniments. I was partial to the Muhammara, a spicy red pepper dip and the perennial favourite Hummus. I flirted with the traditionally-popular salads that are must haves in this fare: Fatoush, the leaf salad tossed with pita bread, and Tabouleh (cracked wheat and parsley salad) seasoned with lemon juice and mint. The service team forewarned me of the courses that were to follow. This was a tempering influence – and thank goodness for that! 

What arrived was Shish Tawook, generous cubes of chicken on skewers subtly marinated. My herbivorous friend had a skewer of Halloumi Cheese and Char-grilled Vegetables – a great veg option.

I hummed the tune of the old popular number ‘You take my self control…’ by Laura Branigan, and passed the acid test. I took a sneak peek at the menu, which was designed in a vibrant tabloid format. It was a great visual hook. Yalla Yalla offers an extensive range of snacks like Marinated Chicken Wings, Samboussek Lahme (a very popular dish on the page three cocktail party circuit!) and more.

 I noticed a group of Japanese guests at the adjoining table enjoying a T Bone Steak. Yes, it was imported of course, like the Norwegian salmon and Australian beef. Radisson caters to global travellers who know their food.

A couple of guests conversed and chilled out with the sheesha. We could have been anywhere in the world, I thought. It certainly transported me to the Middle Eastern restaurants in St John’s Wood in London. 

The dessert was Baklava, of course, and an irresistible Chocolate Cold Stone ice cream, which was so right for this season. The service was prompt, international and most-importantly knowledgeable. Considering the profile of guests that this hotel caters to, these skills are pre –requisites.

It certainly was a very relaxed evening.  I feel the urge to return and indulge in the host of other dishes on the menu. With no guilt attached. After all, I re-assure myself, Middle Eastern fare is considered one of the healthiest diets in the world… And as the saying goes, health is wealth, right? 

I was scheduled to try out The Spa’s summer special sandalwood therapy – something everyone must experience this summer, with its wonderful cooling nature, relaxing routine and the gentle fragrance, a truly Indian fragrance. The sandalwood therapy involves all aspects of wellness and relaxation, by opening your body up to the completely natural goodness of the ingredients that come together harmoniously for this massage. 

Getting ready for the therapy, a hot shower and a fresh towel escorted me into the sauna. After letting my pores relax and open up, I felt a healthy sweat starting to run down my face and back. Moving to the adjacent room that had been prepared with rose petals and incense, I lay down on the massage table. The soft, able hands of the masseuse patted some thin sandalwood oil onto me, so light on the skin that her hands slipped and slid as she started kneading my soles, feet and legs. With pressure that was not too light to be dismissed, or too hard to hurt, the therapist used her fingers, knuckles and palms to rub the oil into my skin. After the legs, she worked on my hands and torso, making sure the warmth of her fingers complemented the cool oil. Turning over, she worked into the more intense part of the therapy and the most important, the back. Once she worked her magic on my back, she used a sea salt scrub to exfoliate it. Leaving not one inch ‘untouched’, she revisited my legs and ended with a few satisfying presses on my feet again. Sneaking a look into the side mirror, I could see the ochre of sandalwood framing my back, and couldn’t help but notice how beautifully the interiors, the lighting and the colours went with the sandalwood hue on my back! Reverting to the face-down position, I enjoyed the lilting strains of soft music with little birds chirping, as an unexpected warmth enveloped my back, courtesy soaked banana leaves that formed a leafy body wrap! The play between warm and cool went on, as the warmth radiated inwards, melting over my legs, leaving a pleasant tingling sensation on my skin and giving a ‘burning’ cool zing to the whole body. 

Once the banana leaves were removed, a cool towel was used to wipe the paste off the back, in preparation for a lovely mixture of milk and sandalwood as a finishing touch. Rubbing this cold concoction into my back somehow erased the earlier confusion my pores may have been facing, sealing the newly-induced sandalwood fragrance under my skin. 

As elaborate as this ritual sounds, the simplicity lies in the sandalwood, a fragrance so earthy and natural that it felt like home coming. Sitting up to wrap the towel, I have a choice between a shower and a Jacuzzi to wash off the remaining oil. The fresh water only reminds you how far this effect is going to go to protect you from the humidity and heat out on the road, as a cup of mixed fruit punch cools your lips and refreshes the so far, silent throat.

Rating: 4/5

Price: at Rs 2,500

HOT: A great therapy to indulge in this summer. Indulge in the life of the early Indian royalty, with natural salts, sandalwood and milk replacing talcum powders and chemical ridden bath products. 

NOT: Though the facility is a little confusing, with the bath, washroom and massage rooms all facing each other and the Jacuzzi in the common area, it forms a curiously open bath that I think moves the society to a more confident, uplifting space. 

       

 

Tell us about your fashion obsessions…

Shades, stilettos, handbags and MAC!

What is the one wardrobe must-have for every girl?

That would be a LBD – Little Black Dress.

Five things in your wardrobe that you can't live without.

Hmmm, tough to choose… a good pair of jeans, great lingerie, a LBD, a jacket and smart trousers, I guess.

The hippest trend of SS 2011 that you'd like to see in action. 

Shoulder-padded jumpsuits are my favourite this Spring/Summer.

What is your colour for the season?

Aquamarine and nude. 

Give us one of your favourite evening looks in five easy steps. 

Smouldering eyes, pale lips, laser cheekbones, great hair and a warm smile would be the best evening look. 

What accessories are you most obsessive about and why?

I love my hoops because a pair of gold or silver hoops can glam-up any outfit…

If you were the fashion God for one day, what would you do?

I love this question! I would grant that great couture is also comfortable and worn with confidence (smiles).

Five things we'll definitely find in your handbag. 

Let me look… Russian Red (MAC), Versus (Versace), my wallet, keys and shades.

If you could dress up one celeb, who would it be and what would you make them wear?

I would like to dress (Angelina) Jolie in a nude chiffon dress, soft folds from waist to ankle with an inevitable slit (she has great legs!).

Tell us about your favourite designers. 

I pick Rehane because of the creativity her designs portray, her fearless use of colour and the vivacious appeal of her Spring Summer 2011 collection. I am also a fan of Wendell Rodricks’ uber-feminine creations, Dolce and Gabbana’s sensuality, Valentino’s unbeatable cuts; and last but by no means the least, Elie Saab’s stunning and glamorous evening wear.

I love fashion because… 

…it is an expression of life, colour and beauty, being encompassed in one creation/garment.

 Your experiences working with Rehane…

Rehane has introduced me to the world of high fashion and apart from being one of the best designers in the country; she is a mentor and brilliant stylist. Having showcased her work, I have understood so much about what fashion truly is. 

About your experience of being part of the Femina pageant…

It was an unbelievable experience working with Marc Robinson and being trained by the Femina team. Spending two weeks with the most beautiful girls in the country and learning to be the best I can, was an amazing platform that opened doors to the very best of opportunities. It was the experience of a lifetime!

Fashion to me means…

Creativity, glamour, expression and beauty.

You are at an audition for one of the top international brands and your footwear gives way. What would you do?

I will maintain my strut to pull it off as best I can. It could be worse – so I'd be grateful it was just the shoes and not the dress!

What fashion accessory / clothing do you shop for most when you travel?

High-waist jeans in all colours.

Beauty is in the eyes of the beholder – your take.

…it is also something to be found in the person being beheld.

Tell us about your beauty ritual – morning and before bedtime.

I have none. I thank God for being kind to me and I am grateful for being blessed.

One natural therapy to stay beautiful…

Water; it is the best and most-natural way to maintain your skin, health and youth. Drink gallons of it!

Five fashionable people you look up to for inspiration.  

My inspiration to dress fashionably and my taste in it, was nurtured at home thanks to my mother and sister. These days I follow Donatella Versace, Naomi Campbell (she’s timeless!) and Rihanna (for her fearless dress-sense).

Are you a hoarder? What is the one thing (fashion-related) you can't have enough of?

Yes, like anyone else who is addicted to fashion! I can’t have enough of waist belts and killer heels.

Your future plans…

My priority is to complete my education and then carve a niche for myself in the world of beauty and fashion. Among other passions, I will continue to pursue my love for art and affinity for dance. I also want to travel!

Of all the features on the face, what do you think should be highlighted the most? How?

Eyes! Define the lids by brushing over with a stunning shadow, lashes swept with long-lasting mascara, and the waterline of course filled in with Kohl.

Well-dressed vs well-turned-out. What is your pick and why?

I would prefer to be well-turned-out because the ultimate turn-out takes a lot more than just the dress. Well-turned-out is what intrigues me most.

One fashion faux pas you've made recently.

Mercifully, none that I can recollect! My mother is my best critic, so it maybe wise to ask her (smiles).

If not a model, you would have been a…?

…an artist of course: I will continue to paint through my modelling career.