Delivering a delectable slice of India to the world

BANANI VISTA
JUNE 2019

Travel
Guide to Enjoying
a Long Weekend
in Jim Corbett
Recipe
Shahi
Gulkand
Gulab
Jamun
Knowing the
Indian Chef:
Sabyasachi Gorai
Chef Saby
talks about his
restaurants
and restaurant
business in
India
E d i t o r ' s L e t t e r

This June we bring to you some amazing

culinary experiences and pioneers from the
industry. Chef Sabyasachi, the award winning
Indian chef graces our cover. He shares his
learning and passion about his unique
restaurants and cuisines all over the world.
Also, Chef Reetu shares the secret of making
delicious Gulab Jamun.

The June edition also speaks about creativity

and fashion. Don't miss to read our fashion
stories this month. We have covered some of
the coolest things from the town.

I'm sure you will get some of the nicest stories

to read this month!
 Content
ON THE COVER
Sabyasachi Gorai,
popularly known as Chef
Saby is an institution in
01 Creativity Unlimited
himself. He talks about his
restaurants and restaurant
08 Knowing the Indian business in India.
Chef: Sabyasachi Gorai

13 The Dynamic TRAVEL

Enterpriser and Fashion For nature lovers, the
Designer valleys in Himachal Pradesh
are a great option. Tips to

17 Frozen Food help you plan an itinerary

Market 2019 Trends for a long weekend

getaway to Jim Corbett
National Park.
23 Fashion Forward

28 Here’s Your Guide to NAMMA BENGALURU

Enjoying a Long Welcome to The Courtyard
Weekend in Jim Corbett an urban oasis of culture,
community and creativity
32 Recipe: Shahi Gulkand located in Double Road in
Gulab Jamun Shantinagar. It is the space
where culture and creative

37 How Is WWI Coping Up expression are given wings.

With The Constant

Change In Terms Of
Technological FASHION
An innovative and creative
Advancement In The
fashion designer who
Industry?
started his career in the
90’s, Harsh Bhotika is an
expert in bridal trousseau
designs.
Creativity

Unlimited
THE COURTYARD IS THE
SPACE WHERE CULTURE
AND CREATIVE EXPRESSION
ARE GIVEN WINGS.
BINDU GOPAL RAO

01 | SPUNKY INDIAN
As a city that merges the contemporary with the traditional, Bengaluru is
a hands down winner. And making this possible in its own way is an
interactive space located in the midst of the city that is slowly but surely
becoming a hub of crafts, arts, culture, food and more. Welcome to The
Courtyard an urban oasis of culture, community and creativity located in
Double Road in Shantinagar. 

Conceptualised and designed by Akhila Srinivas, a trained architect and

urban designer along with the team from M9 design studio this is a
contemporary urban space to nurture and influence the creative mind of
artists, chefs, musicians, students and fitness enthusiasts.

02 | SPUNKY INDIAN
Culture Calling
An old Bangalore home that evokes
not just a sense of rest and relaxation,
but of history and learning, The
Courtyard is designed in a way to
work as a public space where one has
the utmost freedom to creatively
express rather than a closed private
space. “The courtyard is a culture
project in the heart of Bangalore city
with an emphasis on rooting creative
communities to the space. It is at the
heart of which is a courtyard flanked
by an old Bangalore bungalow
overlooking a new insertion,” says
Akhila.  The convenient location
makes it a perfect place for a working
lunch, casual but elegant dinner or
lazy weekend all day dining. The
essence of Bangalore with the touch
of contemporary makes
The Courtyard a catalyst to root
culture and community. The old
bungalow has been restored to an
office, two exhibition spaces and
the first floor houses two living
units that one can rent and stay in
for both short and long stays. The
rooftop of the new building has a
100 year old Gulmohar tree canopy
sweeping in and makes for an ideal
space for private events and parties.
Architectural Vibes
The classic south-Indian
architecture and vernacular styles
create an old-world charm. The
green courtyard in the very center
of the space embodies the openness
and a breathing space in the middle
of one of the city's main arterial
roads.
03 | SPUNKY INDIAN
The rooftop with its incredibly evocative
green canopy, tucked away as it is, the rooftop
is perfect for deeply involved conversation
and a shaded outdoor space. The Studio on
the first floor is the newest part of The
Courtyard. With an open, flexible plan,
movable stage area and seating, laminated
wood flooring and provides a blackout space
for activities that bring communities together.

The Courtyard is designed in

a way to work as a public
space where one has the
utmost freedom to
creatively express rather
than a closed private space.

The Courtyard also houses a conveniently

located bistro and wine bar that offers
excellent food with a comfortable yet
elegant atmosphere where one could dine,
meet friends or have a drink after work.
“The new structure is basically a MS
building with corrugated metal sheet for
walls. The studio space also has a large
curtain element. It works as a light and
sound filter for our formal studio area,” says
Akhila. The flooring is IPS flooring and the
formal studio space has wooden flooring
for performances, workshops, talks,
screenings etc. All lighting is exposed LED
bulbs and some bamboo lamp shades which
have been re-used from the previous space.

04 | SPUNKY INDIAN
Décor Mantra
Being an old building that was being
refurbished, structural integrity was of
paramount importance when it was
being renovated. “It is almost an 80
year old bubble with 18” walls with
lime plaster. Though strong in its
construction, fragility does creep in.
We also made a conscious effort to
not really re-do much but just restore
to its original condition. The approach
was to keep it true to its anatomy of
simplicity and not dramatise just to
achieve a certain look or feel,” says
Akhila.
The bistro space is furnished with
restored old furniture and lamp shades.
The finish is of black metal against teal
wood furniture and lots of green. The
studio space is again a combination of
black painted MS structure and a skin  05 | SPUNKY INDIAN
of polycarbonate sheet with black
Aluminium frames and a large
expansive black curtain to control
sound and light. The flooring in the
studio is that of light wood. The
courtyard space is an open area with
lots of green and some very old trees.
“We have used repurposed turf for
this area to make it child friendly and
generally comfortable to just sit on it
or just roll about if you chose to.
The approach was to
keep it true to its
anatomy of
simplicity and not
dramatise just to
achieve a certain
look or feel, says
Akhila.
It is also far easier to maintain and ecologically
a better option than having a heavy
Address: The Courtyard,
maintenance and water guzzler lawn, especially
105, KH Road (Lalbagh
since the turf is a refurbished piece,” says
Double Rd) Opp.
Akhila. The colour scheme is stark and neutral
Corporation Bank,
at the same time. For the space to become a
Shanti Nagar, Bengaluru,
backdrop for all the happenings and change its
Karnataka 560027.
vibe according to the art being displayed or
Phone: 7338677996
performed there is a black scheme with good
doses of teak wood, translucent polycarbonate
sheets and lots of sunlight and greenery.

06 | SPUNKY INDIAN
07 | SPUNKY INDIAN
 Knowing the Indian Chef:

Sabyasachi Gorai
CHEF SABY TALKS ABOUT HIS RESTAURANTS AND
RESTAURANT BUSINESS IN INDIA

Sabyasachi Gorai, popularly known as

Chef Saby is an institution in himself.
He needs no introduction. The whole
culinary world knows him for his
brilliant master creations. He has
bagged many Chef of the Year awards
and is the first chef to receive the “Best
Chef Award”  from the president of
India. He has cooked for some of the
famous dignitaries- Bachchans,
Ambanis, F1 teams and is at the helm of
affairs at Fabrica by Saby, a boutique
restaurant consultancy venture.

The Choices Made:

Chef Saby didn’t aim to be a chef. He

was a good athlete, good in sports. What
he always wanted to do was to serve the
nation through defense services. The
second pre-university grades were not

He has bagged many Chef of

great for him and he couldn’t clear the

the Year awards and is the

entrance exams for either naval or

first chef to receive the “Best

army.

Saby was fascinated by his cousin Chef Award” from the

sister’s profile who was working in Taj. president of India.
He wrote the exams for hotel
management and fortunately got Food is an expression:
through IHM, Calcutta. “My dad was Saby always had an interest in design, always
not keen at all either for naval nor drawn and paint as a kid. He did his schooling
army. However, he was a bit okay for from Pondicherry Art School. He also learned
hotel management as my cousin sister music from BHU.
was already into it”. 08 | SPUNKY INDIAN
 "Expression of art is always a part of
me either through music or through
paint.  So when I got into food or the
hotel industry I realized that food is an
expression and secondly, I got a
chance to enter into the kitchen. I felt
good as I get to eat a lot (as a teen), and
also I could do a lot of creativity with
food. That’s when my mind changed
that I wanted to be in the kitchen”, he
informed.

The food reflects his memoir:

Many chefs make lives in the

restaurants, for him, he has restaurants
which depict his life. “SodaBottle is the
first restaurant that I consulted. The
food depicts my life story in Bombay
where I grew up.  The first few years I
was living in a coal mining area in
Asansol and one can get to know the
place through my restaurant,
Mineority, Pune. This restaurant is
also inspired by my dad’s second book
that talks about the mining history of
India. In mineority, we serve food
from minor parts of India- Northeast,
Bihar and West Bengal.

Another restaurant, Lavaash by Saby is

based out of my school friends who
were Anglo Indians from the
“Expression of art is Armenian community. This restaurant
always a part of me too has its inspiration from my dad’s
either through music book that educates about Armenian
or through paint. So settlement in India.  Every time he
when I got into food or writes a book, I open a restaurant”, he
the hotel industry I smiled.
realized that food is
an expression." 09 | SPUNKY INDIAN
A glimpse into Armenian Cuisine:

Chef Saby educates me about

Armenian cuisine-the ingredients,
process, cooking methods. He
explained that Armenians traveled to
India how the Parsis did. The
 Armenian cuisine served in Lavaash
has its influences from West Bengal as
he showcases the Armenians who
settled in that part of the country. His
dishes are 50% Armenian and 50%
Armenian inspired Bengali food.

‘Lavash’, a fire-baked
flatbread from
Armenia, is considered
one of the oldest forms
of bread.

“We serve layered cakes, hummus

made of white beans rather
chickpeas and we use Bengali sticky
rice, black rice from Northeast, the
gondhoraj lime, the mustard used is
A new-born is wrapped with the bread, even the
the “kashundi” instead of the regular
married women use it as a veil and once a
mustard. In Armenian cuisine, a lot
person is dead he is wrapped with that bread
of food cooked in Terracotta and is
too. It’s an Egyptian tradition".
known as “Dum”. So we use lots of
Terracotta pots to cook.  Armenians Food Philosophy:
use t’onir which is inside the ground
and ‘Lavash’, a fire-baked flatbread Chef Saby prefers to cook in a clean, fair and

from Armenia, is considered one of honest way. He cooks in a similar manner as for

the oldest forms of bread. The bread a VIP or for a regular customer. “I don’t like to

and the way it’s made featured on cook fancy food, though I cook a lot of it

UNESCO’s Representative List of the because there is a requirement or a demand for

Intangible Cultural Heritage of it. But I personally like to cook food that is

Humanity”. Chef informed that the nourishing, that is wholesome, food that gives

bread has a lot of significance in an you fulfillment”.

Armenian's life.  10 | SPUNKY INDIAN

Stepping into entrepreneurship:
At the age of 40, Sabyasachi left his high
paying luxurious job as the culinary
director of Olive group. He had in his
mind to do something of his own. That
was when he received the President’s
award for the best chef. He is the only
restaurant industry chef, highest paid
job in the country. This is followed by
consulting many restaurants, Soda Bottle
being the first one and Beer Café,
Antares, to name a few.
Challenges for running a
restaurant in India:
Being the first chef owning restaurants
in India, Saby was vocal about the
challenges in running a restaurant in
India.
“To run a restaurant in India is difficult
as compared to other countries. One
needs to go to 28 different places for a
license which takes almost 6 months,
fighting cops, GST, policies are other
shortcomings.
Restaurant entrepreneurship in India is tough.
People’s mindset has to change, the economy
has to get better.
At the age of 40,
Sabyasachi left his high
paying luxurious job as
the culinary director of
Olive group. He had in his
mind to do something of
his own. That was when he
received the President’s
award for the best chef.
At the age of 40, Sabyasachi left his high
paying luxurious job as the culinary director
of Olive group. He had in his mind to do
something of his own. That was when he
received the President’s award for the best
chef. The government should build colleges
and institutes as there are no restaurant
colleges. Even culinary schools are not
sufficient. India has got only 4-5 best culinary
schools. There is a problem of literacy,
problem of hygiene and education” chef
Sabyasachi expressed.
11 | SPUNKY INDIAN
Give back to the society:
Chef Saby works towards various
causes. He runs a Delhi- NCR food
bank and helps support the cause. He
is also the president of the young
chef’s forum of IFCA. He grooms and
inspires 40,000-50,000 young chefs
passing out every year. He does guest
lectures, workshops, motivational
speeches, training classes, and
mentoring.

Chef Sabyasachi is
helping the Muslim
girls residing in the
slums of Nizamuddin.
He works in
collaboration with
NGO, trains them and
helps the girls to get
proper employment.

Chef Sabyasachi runs various social

projects and works towards the
betterment of society. One of them is
helping the Muslim girls residing in the
slums of Nizamuddin. The girls have
little or no education as their families
don’t send them to colleges. He works
in collaboration with NGO, trains them
and helps the girls to get proper
employment.

Chef Saby expressed that he has to

prove every time through his creations.
“Right attitude, fire in the belly,
conviction and positive energy is all
that you need to achieve what one
desires”, he signed off.
12 | SPUNKY INDIAN
 The Dynamic

Enterpriser and

Fashion Designer
HARSH BHOTIKA, DIRECTOR, WARP N WEFT (WNW)

13 | SPUNKY INDIAN
An innovative and creative fashion
designer who started his career in the
90’s, Harsh Bhotika is an expert in bridal
trousseau designs. Initiating with a small
shop and converting it into a sprawling
manufacturing unit of 27,000 sq ft, is a
result of 10 years of tough grind and
dedication. The versatile entrepreneur
stepped into the fashion world by adding
core values and passion to his repertoire
of work. His innovative and creative
instincts has led him carve a niche in the
world of fashion.
WNW is redefining designer ethnic wear
in India, making it available to patrons
who are connoisseurs of fine designs, but
shy away due to the pricey designer tags,
hence the label aims to be affordable too.
A perfectionist by nature, Harsh has
grounded Warp N Weft (WNW) on the
twin pillars of excellence and innovation.
Through his vast experience in the fashion
world, the entrepreneur aims at
revolutionising the ethnic wear women’s
wear in India with a firm focus on
craftsmanship, quality and customer
experience. With an aim to elevate the
brand, Harsh aims WNW to be the most
preferred Indian Ethnic Bridal Trousseau
destination for the elite and affluent Indian
brides in time to come. Guided by a
sophisticated yet dramatic sensibility, the
dynamic enterpriser combines unique
elements with inventive design to create his
collections. His ensembles are for the women
who meander between the contemporary
and the traditional; she who respects the
values of the land, the craftsmanship of the
weave and yet has a global outlook. The label
currently has its own flagships stores in
Kolkata, Delhi and Chennai. In conversation
with Harsh Bhotika to understand more
about the brand.
14 | SPUNKY INDIAN
What inspired you to start WNW?
Harsh Bhotika: During my childhood
days I had once had the opportunity
of dying fabrics. That experience
helped me realise where lays my true
happiness and things started to fall
into place one after the other. It did
not take me long to discover the
artistic side of me and in no time I
decided to turn my passion into my
profession. WNW is my way of
communicating with the world
through my art that I have learned
and mastered over the last 19 years.
How WNW is different than any other
brands in the market?
Harsh Bhotika: WNW believes in
excellence in craftsmanship- exquisite
embroidery and stitching techniques.
Backed by years of collective
experience, values and passion, each
garment is handpicked for its
unmatched signature.  The curated
designs are tasteful, yet, affordable.
WNW as a brand is deeply rooted in
Indian aesthetics, yet western and
contemporary in construct. The vision
is that of a global fashion house that
fills the vacuum in the category of
customized clothing, refined in
contemporary expression suited to
today's lifestyle.
What are the challenges you faced while vocabulary for the modern woman. From
setting up your brand and how did you stunning lehengas to sarees, the classic collection
overcome them?
Harsh Bhotika: You cannot be
successful without crossing a few
hurdles.
 We often came across days when     we had no
work and it was becoming difficult to pay the
team. At times, we also faced a few patrons who
were not pleased with our collection. After
crossing all the difficulties together here we are
today. I still remember when we started with just
Rs. 300 in the year 1999. It has been a challenging
yet a rewarding journey ever since. Our hard
work has not been compromised with and the
team is working on every bit to keep the name of
the brand as it is known to the world today. We
have been truthful with all our collaborators
throughout and the support followed. We
introduced our collection on Benarasi handlooms
in the year 2011 which turned out to be the game
changer.
WNW as a brand is deeply
rooted in Indian aesthetics,
yet western and
contemporary in construct.
The vision is that of a global
fashion house that fills the
vacuum in the category of
customized clothing, refined
in contemporary
expression suited to today's
lifestyle.
Tell us about your summer bridal collection.
What fabric and colours have you used in this
collection?
Harsh Bhotika: WNW has developed a unique
style of its own, reflecting the ancient traditions of
Indian craftsmanship in a contemporary
of its timeless and creative ensembles for the
bride and her family are versatile and
aesthetically appealing.
15 | SPUNKY INDIAN
 Believe in your dreams and
work hard for it.
From stunning lehengas to sarees, the classic collection A message for the young
of its timeless and creative ensembles for the bride and designers.
her family are versatile and aesthetically appealing.
Harsh Bhotika: As they say,
The ensembles have a touch of fabrics like rich silk,
patience is a virtue. Believe
georgette, satin embellished with intricate embroideries
in your dreams and work
and gloriously rich Indian aesthetics and rich brocades
hard for it. Don’t keep any
enamoured with everlasting grace & elegance. The
stone unturned. Also, one
premium fabrics are personally procured from various
must not compromise with
places around the globe.
their ethics and values in
Any recognitions or awards you would like to order to fulfill their dreams.
share with us? We live in a country with
more than 1.36 billion
Harsh Bhotika: It feels really good when your hard work
people residing here, there
gets recognized, so I would proudly like to share the list
will be a day when you come
of awards as well as recognitions that we have received:
across people who will like
Best Participant Award, KFE 2016
and appreciate your designs.
Times Retail Icon Award , 2017
So, don’t let small failures
Dr Ujjwal Patni Best Business Process Implementor
pull down your confidence
Award, 2017
today instead turn them as
Best Participant Award, KFE 2017
your stepping stones in your
Times Power Women Award, 2018 to Mrs Rita Bhotika
journey to success.
Best Participant Award, KFE 2018

16 | SPUNKY INDIAN
 Frozen Food

Market 2019 Trends

MR.MITHUN APPAIAH, CEO- INNOVATIVE FOODS LIMITED,
BRAND SUMERU

There are many that have been
credited with developing innovative
food-freezing techniques. However,
it is Clarence Birdseye whose quick
freezing method in 1924, which
produced the type of frozen foods
that we know today and
revolutionized the food processing
industry globally. Its’ easy and quick
preparation backed by continuing
technological up-gradations and
with   by 2023.
increasing women joining the
workforce, has changed consumer
perceptions to make it a favourite in
kitchens across the world.
Globally the Frozen food market is
projected to reach USD 293.7 billion
by the end of 2019 and in India where
it was valued at USD 310 million in
2017 it is projected to grow at a CAGR
of over 16% to reach USD 754 million

17 | SPUNKY INDIAN
 The demand for frozen food
products has gone up in the recent
years particularly in a growing
economy like India which has
seen a rapid increase in number of
consumers with higher disposable
incomes, more women entering
the work forces, growing number
of two income nuclear families
which has resulted in paucity of
time and hence the need for
convenience driven foods. Further
augmented by rising urbanization,
increasing number of
refrigeration facilities in small
retail shops and rural households
and growing cold chain industry.

However, these consumers aren’t merely looking for convenience they are also looking for
alternatives that are healthy, organic and preservative free along with taste, variety and
value for money – they want it all. Which presents both a unique challenge as well as an
opportunity to the frozen food manufacturers.

While frozen food is generally considered as

convenient it is often perceived to be unhealthy, a
consumer misconception the sector has grappled
with for a while now.

While frozen food is generally considered as convenient it is often perceived to be unhealthy,

a consumer misconception the sector has grappled with for a while now. Often consumers
assume what is available as fresh is better, but in reality this is quite contrary. While there is
no denying that fresh is good – but what is perceived to be fresh produce in the market often
has reached the consumer a good 15 to 20 days after it was harvested.

The days spent in transit, pollution, improper storage conditions in fact destroy most of the
nutrition.

18 | SPUNKY INDIAN
 Whereas most freezing units
across the country are
located with 100 kilometres
of where the produce is
sourced meaning the your
fresh peas in the Uttaranchal
belt reaches the
manufacturing unit within
hours where it is cleaned
and flash frozen at its peak
nutritional state and then
stored and transported in a
controlled environment
where the temperature is
consistently maintained
under -18 degree Celsius to
prevent enzyme activity that
might further cause
nutritional loss. 
Freezing as a process in fact involves
minimal processing, has high retention of
nutrients, taste, texture and freshness
Fresh peas in the making it one of the best and safest
Uttaranchal belt methods of food preservation without the
reaches the addition of any preservatives.
manufacturing unit
within hours where it The Frozen food industry is also
is cleaned and flash witnessing an increase in demand for
frozen at its peak more premium, sustainable and healthier
nutritional state and products. The today high expectation in
then stored and terms of quality, taste, origin of produce
transported in a and ethic brand practices is high as well. A
controlled recent Nielsen study found that 81% of
environment to Millennials and 78% Generation Z are
prevent enzyme willing to pay more for foods with
activity that might benefits. Millennials are more likely to
further cause spend on sustainable brands that offers
nutritional loss. products that are organic, high protein
and follow fair trade / souring practices.
To meet these needs frozen

19 | SPUNKY INDIAN
Another major challenge that Frozen food manufacturers need to address is the
growing consumer demand for variety and novelty in this segment. The consumers
today are seeking more innovative products, Sumeru’s primary research data shows
a marked rise in demand for mainline products like Pizza, Biriyani in the Indian
frozen segment and not just snacks. Frozen desserts (non ice-cream segment) is
gaining traction and consumers have started accepting those products.

The frozen food sector overall is witnessing lot more disruption than ever before.
To address this disruption frozen food manufacturers need to significantly invest on
R&D and innovation, and develop products that address the consumer concerns
around health, nutrition and origin.

At Sumeru we uniquely combine innovation with the use of healthy ingredients like
Turmeric, Millets, Methi (Fenugreek), lean meats - like Chicken and Seafood,
healthier cooking methods for e.g. roasting vs deep frying to create our products.

20 | SPUNKY INDIAN
This is reflected in our newly launched
range of Gourmet Premium Products
created in collaboration with 13 time
Michelin starred Chef, Chef Alfred
Prasad (this is a first of its collaboration
in the Indian Food Industry), Kebab and
Paratha range - curated by Master Chef
India Judge Chef Ajay Chopra.

At Sumeru we uniquely
combine innovation with
the use of healthy
ingredients like Turmeric,
Millets, Methi
(Fenugreek), lean meats -
like Chicken and
Seafood, healthier
cooking methods for e.g.
roasting vs deep frying
to create our products.

Sumeru’s products are made from

healthy premium ingredients and is
largely free from any preservatives and
stabilizers. Also in last one year we have
built a robust system to manage our
internal R&D. We have created an
internal Chef’s Panel of well-known
chefs who come together twice a month
and go through our innovation funnel
and test the products using our unique
ranking system and recommend any
modification. Only when our product
passes this ranking system do we
introduce it our next set of panel – our
consumer panel. We follow similar
rigorous tasting and testing process. 
Once the products that pass these two
panels we then launch them in the
market. 21 | SPUNKY INDIAN
Other trends that we see emerging in the
industry apart from premiumization of frozen
food is that of private label brands is another
factor that is boosting the growth of the
market. Private-label products are relatively
low-priced as compared to mainstream
brands, which makes them a popular option
among consumers who are budget conscious.
The market share of private-label players is
increasing in all the segments of the global
frozen food market.

In order to succeed in the current market

scenario we believe, the players in the market
need to introduce new products that can tap
into the potential offered by the growing
demand for premium, healthy and novel
frozen food products in the country.

22 | SPUNKY INDIAN
 Fashion Forward
BINDU GOPAL RAO

Tvishi is an exclusive, handpicked, curated and created designer wear store that is the
brain child of two enterprising city women.
23 | SPUNKY INDIAN
Tvishi is an unusual name. But has a
lovely meaning. It means ray of light,
energy and brilliance. Meet Shaleen
Subbaiah and Varsha Venkatesh Co-
founders and Partners of ‘tvishi’ a new
designer store in Bengaluru. Varsha
was born and raised in Bangalore and
was always inspired by her father who
is into Government Service. Shaleen
was born and raised in Coorg by her
maternal grandparents and she moved
to Bangalore for her high school and
resided with her aunt and completed
her law from Bangalore University.
The common connection with them
was fashion.
Fashion Matters
Shaleen admits that fashion is in her genes.
“During my early childhood I always
admired my aunt who was a beautiful
woman. She was an author and a film
artist. I always admired her sense of style.
She designed her clothes and as a child I
always accompanied her to the tailors.
Perhaps I was unaware that fashion struck
me in those days itself. I was so passionate
about my start up Panache The boutique. I
put in my heart and soul into it and today
it is an established and well known
boutique in Bangalore.”

My was an author and a

film artist. She designed
her clothes and as a child
I always accompanied
her to the tailors. Perhaps
I was unaware that
fashion struck me in
those days itself.

24 | SPUNKY INDIAN
Varsha has been a model and designer so this The colours, the fabrics, every other app
naturally drew her to fashion. Varsha was which helps you make your life easy
Shaleen’s client since 2010 at Panache and these days.  Rather than inspiration I
even worked as an intern with her for a few would say dreaming, visualising and
months. Her regular visits to the store got executing things at the right time in the
them talking leading to setting up the right positive way makes things work,”
designer store tvishi. The store has exclusive admits Shaleen. Being young women
handpicked curated and created designer entrepreneurs they admit that there is
wear by tvishi and has been positioned as the always stiff competition.
coolest one-stop destination for mid-priced
to premium designer wear.
The approach was to
keep it true to its
The tvishi brand blends the essence of India
anatomy of simplicity
with a touch of the West and tvishi’s designs
and not dramatise just
radiate elegance and class and appeal to
to achieve a certain look
everyone whether it is teens who are
or feel, says Akhila.
discovering fashion to independent women
who know what they want. Sarees, Ethnic,
Indo western and accessories for formal,
casual, party, festive and bridal wear
occasions are displayed at the store.

Women on Top

While Varsha is always

inspired by her father she
always had a passion for
books on Indian History. For
Shaleen her aunt (who is no
more now) was her biggest
inspiration when she was a
child. “I feel every day is an
inspiration. I get inspired by
so many things every day.

25 | SPUNKY INDIAN
“There are defying social expectations, Contemporary Cues
women are not taken seriously, balancing
Quiz them on what are some have haves in a
business and family life  is also a challenge
women’s wardrobe they are clear that each
and the thought of coping fear of failure
woman is different and one woman's ‘must
always arises.  But we don’t want to let all
have’ might not be another’s. Rather this
this get to our head. We want to strive hard
depends on different age groups, the kind of
to overcome all these hurdles and prove to
work and many more aspects.
the society that women are here to stay,”
says Varsha.  “A must for all below forties according to us
include denims with a decent semi casual
top and a black dress. For Indian women
above 40 we believe that a saree is a must
have as is a comfortable kurta,” say the duo.
And as far as apparel trends for 2019 are
concerned they see comfortable long and
short dresses becoming very common these
days. “Skirts and Palazzos, Linen and
handloom sarees highly trend. Floral and
geometric patterns are trending,” say the
duo. And as far as apparel trends for 2019
are concerned they see comfortable long
and short dresses becoming very common
these days.
26 | SPUNKY INDIAN
“Skirts and Palazzos, Linen and
handloom sarees highly trend. Floral
and geometric patterns are trending,”
say the duo. Their advice to women
who want to be entrepreneurs is
simple. “Stay focused and never be
deterred by anyone or anything. Trust
yourself and never try to rationalise
your decision. Always think it is your
idea of this business and you are solely
responsible for the results.

As far as apparel trends

for 2019 are concerned
they see comfortable
long and short dresses
becoming very common
these days. “Skirts and
Palazzos, Linen and
handloom sarees highly
trend. Floral and
geometric patterns are
trending,” say the duo.

It is good to take advice but let not

advice ruin your business. At the end
you are responsible for your decisions.
Be humble and empathetic,” aver the
duo. Looking ahead the duo has big
plans to take their brand forward. “Our
future plans are to expand our foot
print in the major towns in Karnataka in
the next two years and in major cities in
India in the next 4 years. But as of now
we look to strengthen our position in
Bangalore and make tvishi the much
talked about brand. We want to brand
every customer who enters our tvishi
store a tvishi woman.”
27 | SPUNKY INDIAN
 Here’s Your Guide to
Enjoying a Long Weekend in
Jim Corbett
PROTIMA TIWARY
If you’re a travelholic, living in Delhi
will leave you spoilt for choice. With
over 50 weekend getaway options
around the capital, the sense of
wanderlust can be easily satisfied, no
matter what your mood. For those
who love the cold winters, one can
head to the snow-capped Himalayas
in Himachal Pradesh. For nature
lovers, the valleys in Himachal
Pradesh are a great option.
For those who wish to enjoy time away from the
hustle bustle of city life, quaint towns in the
Himalayas are perfect to enjoy that evening stroll
(with piping hot jalebis to keep you company!)
Similarly, for adventure lovers there are various
options for treks and safaris. If you’re in the mood
for an adventure in the wild, a wildlife safari in
India’s oldest national park and tiger reserve, Jim
Corbett, is a wonderful idea. In this post we will
help you plan an itinerary for a long weekend
getaway to Jim Corbett National Park.
28 | SPUNKY INDIAN
 How to get there
Driving down is the best option for those in Delhi.
If you live in another city, flying down to Delhi
THE NEWEST TECH & GEAR OF 2019
and continuing by road is the best way to
FOR YOUR NEXT OUTDOOR ADVENTURE
approach Jim Corbett National Park.
A direct train to Ramnagar is also another way to
get here. Taxis are available from Ramnagar to
accommodation inside the national park.

Where to stay
Jim Corbett National Park has some beautiful resorts that offer great views and hospitality
and a  comfortable stay. You can choose from a plethora of resorts depending upon your
budget.
Taj Corbett Resort & Spa, Corbett Tusker Trail, The Solluna Resort, Sterling Corbett are
some of the names that come highly recommended.

What to do there
An open jeep safari
1. Kickstart your day with an
will take you through
adventurous jeep safari the dense forest
When in Jim Corbett, an open jeep safari is a
cover in Jim Corbett
must! Safaris start as early as 5:00am and have
National Park.
to be booked a day or two in advance (if not
earlier) An open jeep safari will take you Don’t forget to take your binoculars and
through the dense forest cover in Jim Corbett camera, spotting the tiger there is a once in
National Park. The hopes of spotting the Royal a lifetime opportunity! Other than that,
Bengal Tiger will keep you excited, and that deer, elephant, bear, otters and other
adrenaline rush will ensure an energetic start mammal species are also spotted around the
to the day. expansive forest grounds.
29 | SPUNKY INDIAN
Only tourism zones allow safaris and residential properties. The tourism zones are as follows:

Dhikala Zone Canter Safari Jhirna Zone Sitabani forest Zone 

(no jeep safari)
32km from Ramnagar station
Entry Gate- Dhangadi Gate
Bijrani Zone
Day Jeep Safari
2km from Ramnagar
Entry Gate- Amdanda Gate
Day Jeep Safari, Day Jeep Safari, Elephant
Elephant Safari Safari
15 km from Ramnagar  4km from Ramnagar 
Entry Gate: Dhela Gate Entry Gate: :Near Teda Village
(Private Vehicle Allowed)
Durga Devi Zone
This also consists of the Forest
Day Jeep Safari
Rest House which has to be
28km from Ramnagar
booked months in advance.
Entry Gate: Durga Devi
Gate

2. Enjoy a walk by the river

The Kosi river flows through the national park, and a walk by the
rocky banks can be best enjoyed in the afternoon or early evening.
Make sure you come back to your resort before sunset since this is the
time the wild animals start making their way down to the river and the
darkness is all-consuming once the sun sets.
Carry a pair of closed shoes/sports shoes to enjoy a walk along the
river. Sit back, watch the river flow down calmly, read a book or even
take a swim if the weather permits.  You can also go fishing in the
river!
3. End the day with a bon-fire
A bon-fire in this forest landscape is a perfect
way to end the day. If possible, even get your
own grills and enjoy a barbecue in the chilly
night air! Don’t forget to ask your resort for
permissions and safety precautions before
heading out to light the bon-fire.

Days Required: 2 Nights 3 Days

Time for travel: 6 hours from Delhi
Best time to visit: March to June

30 | SPUNKY INDIAN
31 | SPUNKY INDIAN
Shahi Gulkand Gulab

Jamun A STEP-BY-STEP RECIPE BY

CHEF REETU UDAY KUGAJI

Chef Reetu Uday Kugaji

Chef, Culinary Expert, Mentor, Food

Blogger & Author, Hospitality and
Food Consultant.

Recipe is the traditional gulab jamun

recipe with the twist of gulkand,
saffron and sugar candy.

Deep fried sweet dumplings filled

with gulkand, pistachio nuts , broiled
saffron and sugar candy, stewed in
flavoured sugar syrup.
32 | SPUNKY INDIAN
Preparation Time:
05 minutes
Dough Resting
Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 30
minutes.
Servings- 25 nos.
/pieces

33 | SPUNKY INDIAN
 For the Sugar Syrup:
Ingredients and Quantity:
Sugar: 3 ½ cups
Haryali Mawa- 250 gm.
Water: 1 ¾ th cups
Refined flour- 50 gm.
Rose water- 10 ml
Soda Bicarb- a pinch
Green Cardamom powder very fine-
Salt – a pinch
05 gm
Green Cardamom
Muslin cloth for straining sugar syrup-
Powder- 04 gm
½ metre
Water, Chillied- As
Saffron strands – 01 gm.
required to mix
For clarifying the sugar syrup:
For covering the dough:
Milk OR Lemon juice- 05 ml.
Muslin cloth- ½ metre
For deep frying:
For the filling / stuffing:
Oil / Pure ghee- as required
Gulkand- 50 gm.
Pistachio nuts, blanched ,
For the Garnishing:
peeled and cut into
Silver leaf- 02 sheets
halves- 25 nos.
Pistachio nuts, blanched, peeled and
Saffron strands, broiled /
slivered- 15 gm
lightly dry roasted – 01
Almond blanched, peeled and
gm.
slivered- 10 gm
Sugar candy (Mishri)- 25
Saffron strands, broiled / lightly dry
nos.
roasted – 01 gm.
34 | SPUNKY INDIAN
Method:
Grate the mawa, add sieved refined flour, cardamom powder and a pinch
of salt.
Mix soda bicarb with chilled water.
Mix into the mawa mixture.
With the help of your fingertips, prepare a dough. DO NOT KNEAD, as
the friction will cause the mawa to become warm and loose its actual
texture.
Keep the dough covered with a moist muslin cloth for 20 minutes.
Divide into equal portions.
Shape into round balls, press them , place a pinch of gulkand, the
pistachio nut halves, broiled saffron and sugar candy in the centre and
carefully reshape to ensure that there are no cracks in the balls.

35 | SPUNKY INDIAN
 Deep fry on a slow flame in hot oil / ghee till golden brown.
While frying the gulab jamuns, keep stirring the oil / ghee not the gulab
jamuns.
Separately make sugar syrup of one string consistency by taking water,
adding the sugar continuously stirring to make sure that the sugar is
dissolved.
Now switch on the flame, let it boil and reach to one string consistency.
Add milk OR lemon juice to clarify the sugar syrup, remove the scum
from the top and discard the scum.
Add finely powdered cardamom powder and rose water.
Strain through a muslin cloth. Add 01 gm saffron stands to the sugar
syrup.
Add warm gulab jamun to warm sugar syrup.
Soak gulab jamun at least 10 minutes before serving so that it can absorb
the sugar syrup.
Just before service apply silver sheet, garnish with slivered pistachio nuts,
slivered almonds and broiled / lightly dry roasted saffron strands.
Chef Tips:

1.    The reason for putting salt in the mawa mixture is, that salt has the
tendency to enhance and bring out the sweetness in the gulab jamuns /
sweets prepared.
2.    Haryali mawa is a special kind of mawa used especially for making
gulab jamuns.
3.    Make sure the oil / ghee is not too hot while you deep fry them, as they
will only obtain the colour and remain uncooked from inside.
4.    Do not soak gulab jamun more than 10 minutes before serving, as they
tend to become soggy and loses its original texture and shape.
5.    Ratio of sugar to water may be varied from 2:1 i.e. two parts of sugar to
one part of water to 1:1 One part of sugar to one part of water. 3 ½ cups of
sugar to 3 ½ cups of water.
6.    You may add Kewra water to the sugar syrup to enhance the aroma and
flavor.
36 | SPUNKY INDIAN
How Is WWI Coping Up With

The Constant Change In

Terms Of Technological

Advancement In The

Industry?

MEGHNA GHAI PURI, PRESIDENT, WHISTLING WOODS

INTERNATIONAL

37 | SPUNKY INDIAN
Change is the only constant in life. This saying holds true and more so in today's fast-paced,
rapidly evolving world. Over the past several decades, the world has witnessed enormous
changes in every sphere of life, from the social to the cultural and political. But, ultimately it
is the field of technology that has seen the greatest upheaval and advancement, ultimately
serving to reshape the world, in unimaginable ways.

It was with this knowledge in mind that my father and filmmaker, Subhash Ghai, founded
Whistling Woods International (WWI) in 2006. From the beginning, my father was
determined that WWI be a state-of-the-art academic institution, capable of setting new
standards for a global education in film, communication, and creative arts. Naturally, this
didn’t happen overnight. 

Ultimately it is the field of technology that has seen

the greatest upheaval and advancement, ultimately
serving to reshape the world, in unimaginable ways.

38 | SPUNKY INDIAN
Technological progress is constantly pushing the boundaries of what is possible, and tools
are constantly evolving to offer even more innovative features. Since its inception, WWI’s
goal has been to be ahead of the industry when it comes to technology. We have also kept a
close eye on upcoming tech innovations and have taken the extra step to become both early
adopters and in most cases, contributors to the development of such technological
innovation in India. Today we stand as Asia’s premier Film, Communication, and Creative
Arts Institute. The pillars of our success rest on the following factors:

A never-ending quest for innovation

From our very first year, WWI has

committed itself to providing its students
with a holistic teaching and learning
environment, prioritising on hands-on
education with the latest tools and
technologies available. WWI always strives
to give our students the latest and best
when it comes to technology, often times Since its inception,
before the industry has it. To that end, we WWI’s goal has been to
have constantly sought to acquire and be ahead of the
incorporate the latest developments in any industry when it comes
field, and thereby stay abreast of the rapid to technology. We have
changes sweeping through the media and also kept a close eye on
entertainment industry. upcoming tech
The best minds in the field innovations and have
taken the extra step to
WWI has always prided itself on providing become both early
its students with the opportunity to learn adopters and in most
from and work alongside the finest minds cases, contributors to
in every creative field. Our faculty is the development of
comprised of veterans of their respective such technological
areas of expertise, whether they are innovation in India.
directors, editors, or cinematographers. Today we stand as
Many of them are still working Asia’s premier Film,
professionals, which ensure that our Communication, and
curriculums are constantly updated to Creative Arts Institute.
reflect the latest industry trends and
methodologies. Student learning is further
reinforced by a plethora of events held over
the course of the year, catering to our
various schools and departments. 39 | SPUNKY INDIAN
Wisdom of the experts
In addition to our veteran teaching staff,
our students’ learning is further
reinforced by a series of ‘masterclasses’
and ‘workshops’. Conducted on a weekly
basis, these widely-anticipated sessions see
experts across the varied domains of
entertainment, technology,
communications, and creative arts closely
interact with our students and share
valuable insights on their respective
industries. This serves to provide a
window into the latest technological
developments in any given industry.
Alumni contributing to the
education system
The final link in our educational network
comes through our alumni, who
frequently revisit their alma mater in
order to pass on their learnings to the
next generation of media aspirants. From
our very first batch, the students of WWI
have been highly recruited and always
made a mark in the industry owing to
their advanced technical knowledge.
Today there are more than 1900 highly
successful alumni playing key roles in
India’s burgeoning media,
entertainment and creative industries.
Globe-spanning partnerships
In order to capitalise on our students’
learning opportunities and produce
industry-ready graduates for India’s
growing media and entertainment
industry, WWI has constantly sought
collaborative associations with a vast
array of institutions and businesses.
education
This has seen WWI partner with a number of
global partners: Google, to establish the
YouTube Space and the YouTube Educator
Lab in Mumbai; Reliance Jio for the launch of
WWI JIO VR Lab, a development lab
dedicated to researching Virtual Reality and
Augmented Reality; and Sony for the relaunch
of the Sony Media Technology Centre
(SMTC), which equips our campus with 4K
and HDR production equipment. In 2015, Red
Digital Cinema partnered with Whistling
Woods International to set up Asia’s first
RedEducation platform. Over the years, we
have also associated with various technology
partners, including Adobe, Foxconn, Apple,
and Canon, to name a few, with whom we
have carried out various workshops and
projects.
In order to succeed in today’s highly
competitive, cut-throat environment, it is
imperative that businesses keep abreast of the
latest technological developments in their
chosen field. To that end, Whistling Woods
International has been tireless in its efforts to
incorporate the world’s most advanced
technology in its curriculum, ultimately
ensuring that its students stand as a beacon of
India’s capabilities to the world.
40 | SPUNKY INDIAN
 LIVE

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MAY, 2019 EDITION

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