YOUR CITY YOUR DAY

YOUR CITY YOUR DAY

l NATURE Have you always been interested in trekking but didn’t know where to begin? Attend a one-day trek to Gorakhgad, near Kalyan. The trek route, perfect for beginners, passes through forests and is an upward climb with a huge cave at the top which will be your final destination When: Sunday, February 5 Contact: For more details or to register, call 6609 6693 Renok Adventures is organising a thrilling four-day Desert Safari Expedition in Jaisalmer at a price of Rs5900 per person. The trip will include a stay in a heritage hotel, a trek, a photography workshop, camel rides etc. The package includes 2 breakfasts, 2 lunches and 2 dinners When: February 17 to February 20 Contact: 75979 21601, 94606 34400 Drop in for ‘Lions of Timbavati’, a free talk by Mr Chris McBride, along with a film screening of Lions of South Africa and Zambia. McBride will speak on his field research on the lions of Timbavati and Savuti in South Africa and Botswana. His research gives deep insights into the behaviour of lions under the cover of darkness. Mcbridge has authored two books — The White Lions of Timbavati and Liontide When: Wednesday, Feb 1 Where: BNHS Hornbill House Timing: 6pm l WORKSHOPS Academy of Air Rifle Shooting is organising a one-day crash course on air rifle shooting for people of all ages. This activity increases concentration, improves steadiness, develops sharp reflexes, develops proper co-ordination of the mind and body, helps in decision-making, enhances grasping power, builds self-confidence and gives relief from tension. When: Sunday, February 12 Where: Raja Shivaji Vidyalaya, Hindu Colony, Dadar (East) Timing: 12 noon to 7pm Contact: For further details, call 98921 95787, 98203 68651 Institute of Floral Design (IFD)’s professional floral design diploma course seeks to produce trained personnel to manage and maintain floral designing businesses at par with international standards. Course fees are Rs18,000 Where: LJ Education & Training Centre, next to Lazaree Showroom, opp Tilak Bridge, Dadar (West) Contact: Call 97697 68838/61121 or visit www.ifdindia.com

YOUR Mumbai CITY YOUR DAY

YOUR CITY YOUR DAY

l adopt This is Mojo, a one-month-old male pup available for adoption. He is bubbly and happy Indian breed. He is low maintenance and sturdy, and free of ailments. Indian breeds look beautiful under constant care Contact: To adopt Mojo and other pups like him, call 98201 91321 or 98197 94717 Lion is about two-months-old and Tiger is a four-month-old male kitten. Both are kitty-litter-toilet-trained, healthy, playful and are best friends. Kittens are best adopted in pairs and provide love, entertainment and happiness Contact: 99870 85350 l EVENTS BBC Radio 4 in association with the British Council presents Just a Minute, popular comedy panel game with the following participants - Nicholas Parsons, comedian and presenter Marcus Brigstocke and Just a Minute stalwart Paul Merton with Cyrus Broacha and Anuvab Pal. Each panelist is given a subject on which they must speak for one minute. They must not hesitate, repeat a word or deviate from the topic When: Wednesday, February 1 Where: The Comedy Store, 3rd floor, Palladium, High Street Phoenix, Lower Parel Timing: 7.45pm onwards Contact: To book tickets, visit www.bookmyshow.com l LECTURES Dr. Howard Gardner of Harvard University and the father of the theory of ‘Multiple Intelligences’ is coming to India for the first time. A professor of cognitive psychology at the Harvard Graduate School of Education, and considered to be one of the greatest education intellectuals alive, will deliver a public lecture on ‘5 Minds for the future’ When: Today, January 31 Where: American School of Bombay, Bandra (East) Timing: 3.30pm to 7pm Attend the 31st Mahamahopadhyaya Dr PV Kane Memorial Lecture by Dr Vasundhara Filliozat, historian of art and epigraphist, on ‘Kalamukha and Pashupata Shaivism’ (with special reference to temples in Karnataka) When: Monday, February 6 Where: Homi JH Taleyarkhan Memorial Hall, Red Cross Building, Town Hall premises l SELF-DEFENSE Attend a free self-defense workshop by the Indian Kickboxing Association. Each technique is explained in detail via principles, theory and strategy. The workshop of open for men and women of all ages When: Wednesday, February 1 Contact: For more information or to register, call 91670 08018, 2639 8337

Food in Mumbai

shopping deals foodie joints WHAT: End-of-season sale WHERE: Gas outlets DEAL: Get up to 50 per cent off on the autumnwinter collection, which includes denims, jeggings, tees, skirts, shoes, and bags.
CALL: 6671 7513 WHAT: Sale on home décor accessories WHERE: @Home stores DEAL: Avail 50 per cent off on cushions, curtains, carpets, rugs, bed and bath collection, candles, potpourri, vases, clocks, paintings, wall shelves, nest tables, ottomans, magazine racks and more.
CALL: 2216 1063 WHAT: Blowout sale WHERE: www.pret-amoda.com DEAL: Get up to 70 per cent off on clothing, footwear, accessories and home décor at the online fashion portal. The sale is on till midnight today.
CALL: 85277 00880 WHAT: End-of-season sale WHERE: Tommy Hilfiger Travel Gear outlets DEAL: Enjoy up to 50 per cent off on various series of travel gear.
CALL: 2651 6040 WHAT: New collection WHERE: Inc5 and Rocia stores DEAL: Estd 1977 launches a new collection of huaraches and open footwear for men in colours like black, brown and beige. Price range: R1,680 to R2,480.
CALL: 6710 0305 WHAT: Home accessories WHERE: www.heavenandhome.com DEAL: Check out the funky and colourful selection of home accessories by Chai Why.
Choose from tablemats with Madhubala motifs or cushion covers featuring The Taj Mahal, worth R699 and R499 respectively.
WHAT: End-of-season sale WHERE: Growel's 101 Mall, Kandivli DEAL: Get up to 70 per cent off at Globus, Pantaloons, Esbeda, Global Desi, United Colors of Benetton and others.
CALL: 6699 3000 WHAT: Sale WHERE: www.omvedstore.in DEAL: Get a flat 26 per cent off on body products, organic teas, scented candles, wooden massagers, yoga wear and more.
CALL: 2820 3154 WHAT: End-of-season sale WHERE: Kitsch, Kalaghoda DEAL: Look your chic best at a discounted price as Kitsch offers up to 40 per cent off on the Fall Winter 2011 collection on all brands including Alexander McQueen, Alice+Olivia, Celine, Diane Von Furstenberg, Halston Heritage, Herve Leger, Lanvin, MCQ, Stella McCartney and YSL.
CALL: 2268 7777 WHAT: Sale WHERE: Mineral -by Priyadarshini Rao DEAL: Avail a discount of up to 50 per cent on selected items.
CALL: 6743 1410 WHAT: Weekend bubbly brunch WHERE: Miro, Svenska Design Hotel, Andheri (W) DEAL: Have unlimited champagne and champagne cocktails with gourmet Mediterranean food including hand-tossed pizzas, pastas, tapas and tagines. Every Saturday and Sunday, noon to 4 pm. Price: R799 CALL: 4431 0000 WHAT: All new dosa menu WHERE: Café Bean Garu, Haiko Mall, Powai DEAL: Indulge in dosas like Spicy Cottage Cheese Dosa, Upma Dosa, Herbed Mushroom Dosa and more.
CALL: 4015 3258 WHAT: Martini fiesta WHERE: Aqua Spirit, Sun-n-Sand Hotel, Juhu DEAL: Enjoy a complementary martini with every two martinis. Choose from Cosmopolitan Martini, Dirty Martini, Flirtini, Mojito Mint Martini. Also, indulge in some fruit-based martinis like Gooseberry, Watermelon, Strawberry, Kiwi and more. Price: R400 plus taxes.
CALL: 6693 8888 WHAT: Rajasthan food festival WHERE: Grand Sarovar Premiere, Goregoan (W) DEAL: Gorge on Dal, Bati and Churma, along with Laal Maas, Murg Ke Suley, Gatte Ki Kadhi and Ker Sangri. Indulge your sweet tooth with desserts like, Alwar Ka Mawa, Malpua from Pushkar and Ghevar. From February 3 to 12.
Price: R795 CALL: 2871 8000 WHAT: Sunday brunch WHERE: Jewel of India, Worli DEAL: Enjoy 30 per cent off on beer and wine.
Also, choose from a wide selection of juices and cocktails, vegetarian and non-vegetarian kebabs, live chaat and dosa corner, salads and more. Price: R650 plus taxes.
CALL: 2494 9217 WHAT: Chinese New Year celebrations WHERE: Pan Asian, ITC Maratha DEAL: Treat yourself to Sizzling Rice with Mixed Seafood, Egg Fried Rice with Oyster Sauce, Pan Fried French Bean with Chilly Hoisin Sauce, and more.
CALL: 2830 3030 WHAT: New menu WHERE: Café By The Beach, Girgaum Chowpatty DEAL: Enjoy wholesome, scrumptious entrees like Ravioli, Whole Wheat Fettuccine, Broccoli and Cheddar Crepes, Stuffed Chicken with Asparagus and Leeks, Chicken and Oyster Mushroom Lasagne and Arabian Sea Prawns and more.
CALL: 6565 0040 WHAT: Spanish carnival WHERE: Frangipani, Trident, Nariman Point DEAL: Indulge in indigenous Spanish classics, along with a selection of assorted Tapas and Pinchos, Fideuà, and varied Mar I Muntanyas.Also, savour dessert favourites such as Catalan Crème Brulee, Spanish Tartin, Santiago Tart and more.
CALL: 6632 6310 WHAT: Thai rice and curry special WHERE: Lotus Blossom, Worli DEAL: Indulge in delicious Thai curries like Kaeng Massaman, Kaeng Phet, Kaeng Kaeng Massaman, Kaeng Phet, Kaeng Khieo Wan, Panaeng and Thai Rice like Khao Plao, Khao Phat Sapparot, Khao Phat and Phat Khee Mao.
CALL: 99676 24034

YOUR Mumbai CITY YOUR DAY

YOUR CITY YOUR DAY

l adopt Adopt a pair of two-month-old female kittens. They have been deflead and dewormed. Both are a mixture of black and white. The caretaker is urgently looking for a loving, responsible home for these kittens Contact: To adopt, call 9821036495 Salty is a little 7-8 week-old kitten waiting to be adopted. She is shy, healthy, sweet and absolutely adorable. She is also kitty-litter-toilet-trained. Kittens are best adopted in pairs and provide love, entertainment and happiness Contact: To adopt, call 99870 85350 Whitey is a five-month-old full-white female kitten and Mr Grey is a four-month-old grey-white kitten looking for loving homes. They are kitty-litter-toilet-trained, calm, loving and very sweet Contact: To adopt, call 98213 27618 l PHOTOGRAPHY Kenya — A Journey into the Wilderness is a photography exhibition by amateur photographers Rekha Bhiwandikar, Nirbhay Patil, Pramod Patil, Sudheer Dharmadhikari, Tushar Nidambur and Atmaram Parab during their trips to Kenya. The endeavour is to present a slice of the varied visuals they encountered during their safari When: Jan 28 to Feb 5 Where: PLDeshpande Art Gallery, Ravindra Natya Mandir, Prabhadevi Timing: 12am to 8pm Contact: 98921 82655, 93200 31910 Attend a creative photography course of eight sessions that offers a unique, on-location photography learning experience that expands and provokes photographic skills in an open environment. Identify genres like people portraits, nature, fine art, street, old architectures and interiors, and create your own cohesive, heterogeneous body of work. Also explore the world of ‘fusion art’ that amalgamates images captured in diverse genres during the course of photography into digital art When: January 30 onwards Contact: Call Jatan Atara at 98339 04465 l EDUCATION Prominent institutions from UK, USA, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Singapore and Switzerland will be present under one roof at the World Education Fair, organised by Edwise, India’s leading overseas education consultants. Aspiring candidates can bring academic originals with 5 sets of photocopies for May/Sep 2012 intake before February 4 to the Edwise office When: February 7 Where: JW Marriot, Juhu Timing: 10.30am to 5.30pm On eve of the Republic Day, Thane Study Circle announces a free interactive guidance seminar for youth aged 10 to 25 years. The aim is to inform, fuide, motivate and train youngsters about the opportunities in defence forces — Army, Navy, Air Force, NCC, BSF, CISF, CBI,UPSC, MPSC etc. The youth of our city and their parents can attend the seminar to get complete details about career chances, planning, personality traits analysis, procedure for entrance exams etc When: Thursday, January 26 Where: Thane Study Circle, 3, Parampara,Govind Bacchaji Road, Charai, near Almeida junction, Thane (West) Timing: 9am to 2pm Contact: To register, call 90046 74254 l WORKSHOP Institute of Floral Design (IFD) is an initiative of Smithers Oasis, the most trusted name in the floral industry. IFD’s professional floral design diploma course consists of three-hour classes conducted once a week over a period of nine months, where a team of selected and qualified instructors will teach the program. Each class is limited to fifteen students only. The course seeks to produce trained personnel to manage and maintain floral designing businesses at par with international standards. One-time registration fee is Rs5,000 and course fees is Rs18,000 Where: LJ Education & Training Centre, next to Lazaree Showroom, opp Tilak Bridge, Dadar (West) Contact: For more information, call 97697 68838/61121 or visit www.ifdindia.com

YOUR CITY YOUR DAY

YOUR CITY YOUR DAY

l spirituality Holistic Yoga Centre ‘Aim Yoga’ has arranged a yoga camp in the midst of scenic and peaceful surroundings of the Sahayadri ranges. Enroll and enjoy a luxurious camping experience, accompanied with the opportunity to learn yoga professionally from qualified instructors. The training program includes techniques and practice, teaching methodology, anatomy and physiology, yoga philosophies and lifestyle, ethics for yoga teachers, Ayurvedic satvik cooking etc When: January 27 onwards Where: Aim Yoga, Kasara Contact: For more information, call 98673 79694 For their platinum jubilee celebrations, the Brahma Kumaris are organising a Shanti Anubhuti Adyatmik Mela, a fair that will include pictorial exhibits, tableaus and Shanti Kutir — a room for experiencing pleace and donating peaceful thoughts to the world. The fair goes in line with the organisation’s aim to address the human need to restore balance, find inner peace and replenish spiritual power When: Feb 2 to Feb 7 Where: Ramleela Maidan, near Borivli Court, Borivli (W) Timing: 5pm to 10pm Contact: 28916442 or email bkborivali@gmail.com Attend a beginner’s session on Three-Step Rhythmic Breathing (3SRB), an ancient technique of breathing which calms the mind and brings total physical, emotional and mental health to our body-brain system. This technique has come from the Yogasutra of Sage Patanjali and has been revealed by SN Tavaria, a Rishi of our present age. All 3SRB sessions are completely free and require no prior registration. The session will be an introduction to the system and include the six refining exercises When: Thursday, January 26 Where: 2nd Floor, Gamdevi Mandir, MTNL Telephone Exchange Lane, Nana Chowk, Grant Road (West) Timing: 5.30pm to 7.30pm Contact: 93233 63632 or visit www.3srb.org l education Prominent institutions from UK, USA, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Singapore and Switzerland will be present under one roof at the World Education Fair, organised by Edwise, India’s leading overseas education consultants. The delegates will give information about universities, courses, job permits, education loans and scholarships, visa procedures and insurance. Scholarship and Spot Admissions are given to meritorious students with complete application by some institutions. Pre-registration with Edwise is mandatory for personal interviews with university delegates. Aspiring candidates can bring academic originals with 5 sets of photocopies for May/Sep 2012 intake before February 4 to the Edwise office When: February 7 Where: JW Marriot, Juhu Timing: 10.30am to 5.30pm On the eve of the Republic Day, Thane Study Circle announces a free interactive guidance seminar for youth aged 10 to 25 years. The aim is to inform, fuide, motivate and train youngsters about the opportunities in defence forces - Army, Navy, Air Force, NCC, BSF, CISF, CBI,UPSC, MPSC etc. The youth of our city and their parents can attend the seminar to get complete details about career chances, planning, personality traits analysis, procedure for entrance exams, personality tests, SSB interviews etc When: Thursday, January 26 Where: Thane Study Circle, 3, Parampara,Govind Bacchaji Road, Charai, near Almeida junction, Thane (West) Timing: 9am to 2pm Contact: To register, call 90046 74254 l active For the first time, BNHS CEC has planned a unique bird camp for families. The charges are Rs3,500 per adult and Rs3,200 per child When: January 26 to 28 Where: BNHS CEC, Near Film City, Goregaon Timing: 10am (first day) to 5pm (last day) Contact: Call Kaustubh Bhagat, education officer, for details on 95949 53425/29107 or email cecbnhs@gmail.com

YOUR CITY YOUR DAY

YOUR CITY YOUR DAY

l activities Renok Adventures is organising a thrilling four-day Desert Safari Expedition in Jaisalmer at a price of Rs5900 per person. The trip will include a stay in a heritage hotel, a trek, a photography workshop, camel rides etc. The package includes 2 breakfasts, 2 lunches and 2 dinners. Book in a group of four or more before January 27 for Rs5,500 and get a free pickup from Jodhpur to Jaisalmer When: February 17 to February 20 Contact: 75979 21601, 94606 34400 For first time, BNHS CEC has planned a unique bird camp for families. Start your day with bird calls, sip your coffee on CEC terrace and do bird watching. Join the bird survey on Salim Ali trail, record bird calls and learn about bird pollinating trees. Laze during the afternoons to identify birds based on their calls and get quizzed on bird names. Have a dusk walk on the Karvi trail and study roosting behaviour in birds. The charges are Rs3,500 per adult and Rs3,200 per child (5-12 years) When: January 26 to 28 Where: BNHS CEC, Near Film City Timing: 10am (first day) to 5pm (last day) Contact: Call Kaustubh Bhagat, education officer, for details on 95949 53425/29107 or email cecbnhs@gmail.com l spirituality Attend a beginner’s session on Three-Step Rhythmic Breathing (3SRB), an ancient technique of breathing which calms the mind and brings total physical, emotional and mental health to our body-brain system. This technique has come from the Yogasutra of Sage Patanjali. All 3SRB sessions are completely free and require no prior registration. The session will be an introduction to the system and include the six refining exercises When: Thursday, January 26 Where: 2nd Floor, Gamdevi Mandir, MTNL Telephone Exchange Lane, Nana Chowk, Grant Road (West) Timing: 5.30pm to 7.30pm Contact: 93233 63632 or visit www.3srb.org l workshops Attend a workshop on The Science of Art to learn the scientific approach to drawing, cartoons and caricatures. Classes begin on February 3 for participants of ages ranging from 7 to 70. When: February 3 onwards Where: Juhu Scheme, Vile Parle (W) Contact: Call Vivek Thakkar on 98209 86202, 2628 0694 for further details or visit vivekthakkarart.blogspot.com Attend a workshop in Modern Journalism: Tips, Tricks and Trends, offered by Gujarat Research Society’s Pushpa Navnit Shah Centre for Lifelong Learning. This workshop is for those who would like to understand journalistic writing and presentation, pick up the skills necessary for print, television and new media reporting, and develop a perspective on modern-day journalism When: Mondays and Wednesdays, starting January 30 Where: Gujarat Research Society, Dr Madhuri Shah Campus, Khar (West) Timing: 3pm to 5pm Contact: 6513 0637, 2646 2691 l Competitions Mumbai Kannada Sangha has organised a music competition on the occasion of Sri Puranderdasa Aradhana. Candidates are required to sing a Purandaradasa song in three minutes. The competition is open to all above the age of eight. When: February 12 Where: Mysore Association, ground floor auditorium, Bhaudaji Road, Matunga (East) Timing: 6pm to 8pm Contact: 93239 86708 or 98198 16380 l adopt Dobby is a one-month-old male kitten currently at a foster home in Andheri. He was trying to cross a busy street in Bandra when he was rescued. Dobby loves to sleep on laps, hates sleeping alone and can’t wait to go out for a walk. He also lives to be cuddled and hugged. He deserves nothing less than the best so the present foster family is looking for a loving family to adopt him Contact: Call Anu Lillaney on 98197 94717 Honey is a one-month-old female pup. She is healthy and dewormed. She has an extremely gorgeous grey coat and is of Indian breed. Many Indian pups, males and females, are available for free adoption Contact: Call 98200 01506

YOUR CITY YOUR DAY

YOUR CITY YOUR DAY

l adopt Honey is a one-month-old female pup. She is healthy and dewormed. She has an extremely gorgeous grey coat and is of Indian breed. Many Indian pups, males and females, are available for free adoption into loving homes Contact: Call 98200 01506 An SPCA volunteer recently rescued a five-month-old cat in a road accident. The doctors had to amputate her left law. She was recently released from the SPCA hospital in Parel and is now in Mahim. Owing to her special condition, it might be difficult to find her a loving home that will accept and love her Contact: Call Jessica at 98692 80901 or Deven at 90047 10400 Candy is 5-months-old, kitty-litter-trained and absolutely adorable. She is extremely loving and playful Contact: To adopt, call 98200 89351 or 98211 89351 Dobby is a one-month-old male kitten currently at a foster home in Andheri. He was trying to cross a busy street in Bandra when he was rescued. Dobby loves to sleep on laps, hates sleeping alone and can’t wait to go out for a walk. He also lives to be cuddled and hugged. He deserves nothing less than the best so the present foster family is looking for a loving family to adopt him Contact: Call Anu Lillaney on 98197 94717 l workshops Attend a Workshop in Modern Journalism: Tips, Tricks and Trends, offered by Gujarat Research Society’s Pushpa Navnit Shah Centre for Lifelong Learning. This tailormade workshop is for those who would like to understand journalistic writing and presentation, pick up the skills necessary for print, television and new media reporting, and develop a perspective on modern-day journalism When: Mondays and Wednesdays, starting January 30 Where: Gujarat Research Society, Dr Madhuri Shah Campus, Khar (West) Timing: 3pm to 5pm Contact: 6513 0637, 2646 2691 Attend a workshop on The Science of Art to learn the scientific approach to drawing, cartoons and caricatures. Classes begin on February 3 and are geared towards participants of ages ranging from 7 to 70. When: February 3 onwards Where: Juhu Scheme, Vile Parle (W) Contact: Call Vivek Thakkar on 98209 86202, 2628 0694 for further details or visit vivekthakkarart.blogspot.com l LEARN Manav Abhyas Sangha is organising two workshops for children. At 10am, attend 'Padhe Shika Jhatpat, Padhe Yaeel Patpat', workshop for students, teachers and parents to learn math tables in a quick and easy way. At 2pm, attend 'Pariksha Aata Bindhast' so that your children can pick up tips on passing exams without stress When: Sunday, January 22 Where: Avehi, Sardar Nagar No. 4, Sion-Koliwada Contact: For more information, call 93227 19306, 98202 29976 l lecture Nehru Centre cordially invites you to the fifth lecture of the Prof Subrahmanyan Chandrasekhar Lecture Series by Professor G Srinivasan, former Jawaharlal Nehru Fellow, Raman research Institute (Retired), Bangalore. He will be speaking on the topic, From White Dwarfs to Black Holes: The Legacy of Subrahmanyan Chandrasekhar When: Today, January 21 Where: Nehru Centre’s Hall of Culture, ground floor, Discovery of India Building, Dr Annie Besant Road, Worli Timing: 5pm onwards

Letters

The General Vs government
General VK Singh’s age row, as expected, has reached the Supreme Court for the final bout. The General is upset with the manner the defence ministry has handled the issue. Given that his high school certificate and other documents explicitly mention his date of birth to be May 10, 1951, as claimed by him, he seems to be on a strong wicket. If the SC rules in his favour, it will embarrass the government that has been involved in a series of gaffes recently, like Anna Hazare’s arrest and the midnight raid on Baba Ramdev. Given that Singh is the leader of the million-plus Indian Army, the government should have been proactive in resolving this highly-sensitive matter. The matter should not have reached this far. The fact that it has reflects a general mistrust, indecision and lack of coordination at the highest level and also dents the country’s image globally.
—Gauri Aayeer

Hard-hitting
This refers to the article by Kanchan Gupta — ‘Cong’s no-limit, interest-free minority card’ (January 20). I had never read a more hard-hitting indictment of Congress party’s Muslim appeasement policy for narrow electoral gains. The author deserves praise for his forthright attitude as it is not considered politically ‘correct’ to condemn communal politics, except if it is BJP’s Hindutwa, if you want to be acclaimed a secular intellectual in this country. Successive Congress governments have developed the Muslim appeasement policy into a fine art. As a result, the two major communities, Hindus and Muslims, remain completely polarized till date. The fact that this pandering to the Muslim fundamentalists has not helped the Muslim community at large is borne out by the fact that the Muslims are backward even 65 years after Independence. That is precisely why the Muslims do not want any dole out from the government and want to be left alone to take care of themselves without the political parties using them as pawns in their electoral game.
—Subramanian Venkataraman

Literary blunder
The article on artist Milon Mukhopadhyay by Francis H D’sa was a super description of his life and work but the concluding paragraph gave the impression that the artist is no more. The description alongside his photograph also mentioned that “the painter … will be sorely missed by the world of art” appears to be a literary blunder. The article left readers like me speechless, having met the artist just a few hours ago at an exhibition. With the high literary standards set by a newspaper like yours, such poor editorial copy disappoints readers. One hopes that the editorial team is more alert towards contributions by its writers.
—Dr Rajan TD
Pak court and Gilani
This refers to the report ‘Gilani courts justice to fight another day’ (January 20). The Pakistan Supreme Court has shown its arrogance in slapping contempt of court notice against the country’s prime minister Yousuf Raza Gilani. The judges are massaging their ego by abusing the contempt law. Gilani is right in saying that if the court proceeds against an elected president (two-third majority), it will not give a good message to the people of Pakistan. Lawyers shouted against the government outside the Supreme Court, when the hearing was in progress — was that not contempt of court? Are the lawyers above the contempt law? Is a litigant bound to obey an illegal order of the court? Don’t the litigants need to be protected from the abuse of the contempt law? What about contempt of litigants? Think of a situation: Gilani is forced to resign by the Supreme Court and the new government sends a request letter to Swiss authorities to provide details on the alleged money laundering by Zardari. If the Swiss authorities do not act, will the court then not become a laughing stock? The judiciary in Pakistan seems to be acting at the behest of the military. President Zardari enjoys immunity both under the Constitution and the Vienna Convention. Can the court interfere in an international convention and does the Pakistan Supreme Court have the jurisdiction?
—Deendayal M Lulla

Delay in road work
Apropos of ‘Dug-up road irks 1L motorists a day’ (January 20), it is indeed because of sheer callousness of the BMC that the citizens have to suffer. The lack of co-ordination between two wings in the civic body — the F-North ward and the central agency — is causing this unpardonable inconvenience. This 100-metre portion of the Dr BA Road at Dadar is a vital link connecting the suburban traffic to the city. It has been a month now this portion is lying as it is and this has been causing massive traffic snarls at King’s Circle at Wadala and Matunga. The minister concerned should take it
up and order immediate action to restore this stretch of road to ease the lives of motorists.
—Bikram Banerjea

Mumbai City

YOUR CITY YOUR DAY

l adopt Honey is a one-month-old female pup. She is healthy and dewormed. She has an extremely gorgeous grey coat and is of Indian breed. Many Indian pups, males and females, are available for free adoption into loving homes Contact: To bring home an Indian pup, call 98200 01506, 98213 27618 Baby is a little 5-6 week old kitten looking for a loving home to adopt her. She is playful, healthy, sweet, bubbly and adorable. She is also kitty-litter-toilet-trained. Many more kittens are up for adoption. Kittens are best adopted in pairs and provide love, entertainment and happiness, and will always be part of your home Contact: To adopt, call 99870 85350 An SPCA volunteer recently rescued a five-month-old cat in a road accident. The doctors had to amputate her left law. She is currently admitted at the SPCA hospital in Parel and is doing fine. She will be discharged shortly. Owing to her special condition, it might be difficult to find her a loving home that will accept and love her Contact: If you want to adopt or visit her, please call Jessica at 98692 80901 or Deven at 90047 10400 or email dobicat@gmail.com Candy is 5-months-old, kitty-litter-trained and absolutely adorable. She is extremely loving and playful. Contact: To adopt, call 98200 89351 or 98211 89351 Urban Dogs is a one-day fun fest presented by www.urbanbrat.com and World For All Animal Care and Adoptions in association with Mark — the pet shop and Eureka Forbes. Take advantage of discounts, offers and sales, and participate in games, fun music and on-the-spot contests. Little puppies and kittens will also be up for adoption at the event. Pet parents and dog lovers can indulge in various activities throughout the day and have a great time. When: Today, January 15 Where: Bandra Hindu Association Hall, Linking Road, Bandra (West) l spirituality New Life Foundation presents a two-day intensive workshop on Cosmic Journey through Chakra Healing by Santosh Joshi. Chakras are main energy centers in our body connected to major glands. They are also centers for our emotions, intellect, power, communication, higher knowledge and the Self. This workshop will help you heal each of the seven major chakras from all the stagnant energy blocks, thereby energising each one. This will also help bring and heal any past life memories attached to any of the chakras, which is having an effect on present life and situations When: Jan 21 to Jan 22 Where: Lecture Hall, 4th Floor, Ravindra Natya Mandir, Prabhadevi Timing: 9am to 5pm Contact: To register, call Aruna on 98205 00427, 98204 01670 or visit www.anewlifefoundation.com Attend a beginner’s session on Three-Step Rhythmic Breathing (3SRB), an ancient technique of breathing which calms the mind and brings total physical, emotional and mental health to our body-brain system. This technique has come from the Yogasutra of Sage Patanjali. All 3SRB sessions are completely free and require no prior registration. The session will be an introduction to the system and include the teaching of the six refining exercises When: Sunday, January 15 Where: Haveli Temple, 10th Road, next to Prateeksha (Amitabh Bachchan’s old bungalow), JVPD Scheme, Juhu Timing: 9.30am to 11.30am Contact: 93233 63632 or visit www.3srb.org l active After two successful nature camps in Andaman, BNHS once again is arranging a camp to these enchanting Islands. These islands have good numbers of endemic flora and fauna. They also have a very high forest cover of over 85%. Andaman Island is a treat for nature lovers and enthusiasts. The charges are Rs26,500 for members and 27,100 for others (including travel, food and permits) Contact: To register, call Hornbill House at 2287 1202, 2282 1811 or e-mail bnhs.programmes@gmail.com Learn Tribal Belly Dance with Reetu Jain who has trained and performed nationally and internationally for over 25 years. This 6-hour intensive workshop will review some of the basic techniques in belly dance such as isolations, hip rotations, undulations, shimmies, etc. and build on those techniques to introduce the tribal style of belly dance. Besides improving mind/body awareness, body conditioning and motor skills, one will also get the chance to audition for India's first tribal style belly dance troupe upon successful completion of the course. The cost is Rs2,500 per person for four sessions When: January 18 onwards, every Wednesday Where: The Art Loft, Valentino first floor, above Patel Store, Mehboob Studio, Bandra Timing: 7.30pm to 9pm Contact: To regiser, call 99304 83966 or email contact@theartloft.co.in l KIDS Want your kids to be excited about helping a good cause and participating in a fun physical activity? Attend the unique charity fundraising event Eoto Fete. There will be a bouquet of activities like science workshops by Indigo Kidz for all the smart young ones out there; Kidz Arts with Hobby Ideas corner to explore their inner imagination; Make and Break pottery studio and also Xocolat to help tiny chefs to make their own delicious cookies and cupcakes. Entry fee is Rs100 When: January 22 Where: Joss Banquets, Rampart Row, Fountain Timing: 11am to 8pm   l campus Attend Water — We Deserve it, Let's Conserve It, a series of intercollegiate competitions to create awareness about water conservation in top colleges in the city organized by IDFC Ltd. The competitions will emphasise the importance of water and how to save, recycle and conserve water. Activities include debates, essay writing and photo exhibitions When: Jan 16 (St Xavier's), Jan 17 (St Andrew's), Jan 19 (Raheja College) and Jan 23 (St Xavier's) l Health Rotary Club of Mumbai is organising a Mega Medical Checkup & Awareness camp in association with KG Somaiya Trust until January 25. No prior registration is required and all programmes are free Timing: Each programme will be conducted from 8.15am to 10.30am What & When: Sunday – A counselling Q&A session on Nutrition Awareness by Dr Subhadra Mandalika and Mrs Anuradha Mitra Monday — Session on Homeopathy Awarenss by Dr Krishna Kumar, Dr Lata Kumar and Dr Meera Javeri. Free sample medicines, CDs and books will be distributed. There will also be a free checkup of atendees Tuesday — Consultancy on Astro Vaastu for Health by Ashok Sharma

Kites dot city skyline on Sankranti Mumbaikars celebrate festival with much fanfare & fervour

Kites dot city skyline on Sankranti

Mumbaikars celebrate festival with much fanfare & fervour


Makar Sankranti was celebrated with fervour across the city with colourful kites dotting the skyline. Wearing trendy attires, children, alongwith their families, enjoyed kite-flying on Saturday.
The festival is celebrated mainly to mark the transition of Sun into Makara rashi (Capricorn). People traditionally observe it as a thanks giving day to the God and creatures for a wonderful harvest.
“The day starts early. We make til-gud and meet people. Til-gud ghya god god bola is the general line we have, when we offer this to people. It is basically to tell them that they be sweet to all,” said MC Bhide, a consultant whose family religiously prepares that for Makar Sankranti. Kichdi is other item.
“Earlier, we used to have a holiday on Makar Sankranti, so we would go and meet people after doing pooja and having khichdi. But that is not the case now,” he said. Another preparation that is made is “gudachi podi” (pooris made of jaggery and coconut).


While the Bhides are high on sweet preparations, the Kapadias prefer to be high on kite. In Deepak Kapadia’s family of 22 members, all were seen flying kites. When it comes to food, the Kapadias settle for idli, sambar and chutney and flying kites all day. “It is something I have been noticing for the past 40 years in my home. We do not prepare sweets,” said Deepak, an automobile consultant.


Sweet dishes, otherwise, is a character inherent to the festival. Across regions, sweet preparations are made all through the day. Lohri, celebrated by Punjabis on Firday (by some) saw people preparing similar jaggery-based ladoos. For Tamilians, who call the festival as Pongal, milk is prepared with jaggery and for Keralites, nai payasum is the dish to be relished on the day. “Milk is boiled to the brim and when it reaches there, we shout Pongalo Pongal. The family is around to see the milk spill. It is basically symbolic to the good harvest and that the crop was been more than sufficient,” said Meenakshi Jayaram, a lecturer.

Offering prayers during the festival is a must for Keralites. “It also happens to be the last day of fast for devotees of Ayappa. We offer prayers to him and prepare sweet dishes,” said Premrajan Nambiar, joint secretary of the the Mumbai Keraleeya Samaj. In his house, nei payasum (ghee payasum), which is made of ghee, jaggery and rice is prepared and distributed among people.

 

Letters to the editor

Letters to the editor

Change the cricket selection process
This is with reference to the columns (January 13, 14) in DNA on Indian cricket. I fully agree with you that our selectors should take some bold decisions while selecting team for test cricket. With due apologies to our big three they should have said good bye gracefully. In fact the coach and selectors should have sorted it out with the senior players and eased them out. I feel sorry for Sachin that he has become a big joke on Facebook and Twitter among Non- Indians. Crass commercialisation of the game especially during the Dalmiya era has led to greed among players and the BCCI. Regionalism in the selection policy has been a bane in Indian Cricket (for that matter in other Indian Sport also). Some very drastic steps are required now. BCCI should emulate Australian Board in selection policy. Only three Selectors should be nominated irrespective of the region. They should have played minimum of 40 tests. Selectors should go for young and fit players, some of our pitches should be made fast, bouncy only then we can expect some sort of consistency in our game.


Cart this Indian team back home
I don’t know why everyone is criticising the Indian cricket team and ridiculing their performance, especially that of the `famed batting line-up`. They are the world’s No. 1 team, in go-karting. All we need to do now is to go cart them home because the cash-rich IPL 5 Tournament is about to start and only foolish players would harm their prospects by stretching themselves in the poorly paid five-day game. That’s the positive behind their performance which translates into mega bucks pragmatism.


Set up labs to check adulterated milk
As per a report, more than 65 per cent people in Maharashtra and all over the country drink adulterated milk mixed with water, detergent, fat, skimmed milk powder, urea and glucose. The sample of milk tested by the officials and the authorities found that the milk is not pure boiled, distilled water and not even tap water, but water from dirty, contaminated sources which has been proved as injurious to the health. In the city of Mumbai, the milk adulteration takes place on a larger scale and there is no effective strategy to tackle the problem, except in few cases where raids takes place and very few culprit are arrested and produced before the court. One thing is clear that no effective action is taken to end milk adulteration and the helpless consumers who do not have any alternative to drink adulterated milk risking their lives. I strongly feel that there should be one laboratory in each ward so that the consumers can test sample of milk and if this done there is better chance of identifying the sources of adulteration, but with the increased in the price of milk the anti-social elements and the criminals will be very busy in making money and adulteration can take place at the larger scale.


Improved immunity can counter TB threat
The discovery of 12 cases of Totally Drug Resistant tuberculosis should not lead to panic reactions, especially from doctors (“Fears of a TDR-TB epidemic rise”, DNA, January 12). While the news is alarming from the point of view of current unavailability of treatment regimens for this new strain, the potential threat of an epidemic is much less than predicted. Mycobacteria are opportunistic bacteria (both M tuberculosis and M leprae) and do not easily infect humans with good immune systems, generally attacking those who for any reason are immunologically compromised. Epidemics are caused by bacterial or viral agents that are highly infectious and capable of causing disease across the immunological spectrum. What is more urgent at this stage is to avoid scare-mongering and research both the failings in current strategies that allowed the emergence of a TDR strain as well as newer medications to counter it. The rampant and non-monitored use of antibiotics used in many developing countries along with the tendency to stop medication once the patient feels better are two major factors that need to be checked. Improving the immune state of high risk target groups through better nutrition and primary health care can play a significant role in countering this threat.

your city your day

your city your day

l PET carnival A two-day carnival for doting pet parents and their little ones, Dog A’Fair will showcase products to enhance the lives of their doggie babies and also include events for pets to learn, interact, indulge in and simply enjoy the day out. Celebrity dog lovers too are planning to come along with their designer pets. Attractions will include a dog photo studio and an artist corner, a dog tarot reader and a one-of-a-kind dog adoption pound where NGOs offer their dogs for adoption Where: Radio Club, Colaba When: Sunday, January 8 Highlights: The much-awaited Dog Awards will be held yet again, commending individuals associated with the world of animals, especially dogs When: 5pm on Sunday A super-duper doggy personality pageant When: 5.30pm on Sunday l adopt Seven pups, about two-months-old each, are looking for homes. They are gentle, playful and adorable. Indian breeds are the best breed and are sturdier than other foreign breeds. They easily adjust to our weather, are less susceptible to diseases and ailments, and age does not show on them easily. You also save a life when you adopt an Indian rescued pup Contact: To adopt, call 98205 28869 Tiny is a two-and-a-half-month-old puppy. She is white in colour, very naughty, playful and very affectionate. She is very friendly and gets along well with other dogs and cats. She walks on a leash and is not fussy about food, eating whatever is offered to her Contact: To adopt, call 98200 16845 Baby is a 5-6-week-old kitten waiting to be adopted by a loving family. She is playful, healthy, sweet, bubbly and absolutely adorable. She is also kitty-litter-toilet-trained. Many more kittens are up for adoption. We are looking for loving homes for them and people who will care for them throughout their lives. Kittens are best adopted in pairs and provide love, entertainment and happiness to every home Contact: 99870 85350 Two one-and-a-half-month-old male kittens are up for adoption. They have been deflead, dewormed and are absolutely healthy. They are looking for a loving home. Kittens are best adopted in pairs Contact: Call 98210 36495 to adopt l book launches Attend the launch and book signing of Confessions of a serial dieter by Kalli Purie. The diets featured in the book are structured rather like episodes in Purie’s life, full of characters, anecdotes and juicy nuggets of weight wisdom from surya namaskars set to Bollywood beats to drastic coconut water diets, from a dark experiment with bulimia to a love affair with a self-concocted champagne diet. In this candid tell-all, Kalli looks at weight-related complexes, myths and dilemmas straight in the eye and tells us not just what to do but how to do it When: Sunday, January 8 Where: Crossword, Kemps Corner Timing: 11.30am onwards Attend the launch of Consumer Rights and You by Rajyalakshmi Rao, former member and judge, National Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission, and Nabankur Gupta, founder CEO, Nobby Brand Architects and Strategic Marketing Consultants. This first-of-its-kind book provides solutions to consumer woes by explaining the Consumer Protection Act through cases actually decided by the Consumer Fora. It deals with complaints in sectors such as insurance, medical, housing, banking, education, public utilities and provides consumers with the know-how to effectively respond to defective goods, deficient services and unfair trade practices. When: Monday, January 9 Where: Gateway Room, Taj Mahal Hotel, Colaba Timing: 12 noon onwards l seminar The Ideas Exchange announces the third edition of the Legal Counsel Congress, India’s premiere peer-to-peer knowledge and networking exchange for the in-house community and for the first time ever in India — The Legal Counsel Awards. Stalwarts in the fraternity like Stuthi Shetty, Head of Legal, ING Vysya, Jigar Shah, Director — Head Of Global Markets Legal, India, Deutshe Bank AG, and Vijaya Sampath, among others, will address several legal issues such as in-house legal expertise, legal risk assessments, along with relevant case studies. When: January 18 and January 19 Where: Taj Lands End, Bandra Contact: To register, call 6171 3207/3205 l KIDS On the occasion of Makar Sankranti, Oxford Bookstore and Moksha Publishers invite you to a Kite Making workshop for little ones between the ages of 6 and 14. Materials will be provided, except for rulers and scissors, to children who will be allowed to run their imagination run wild and design wacky kites. Participate certificates will be provided to all children When: Sunday, January 8 Where: Oxford Bookstore, Apeejay House, 3 Dinshaw Vachha Road, Near KC College, Churchgate Timing: 3pm onwards Contact: 6634 5242, 97735 49548 Jumping Genius Day Care and Activity Centre is conducting special workshops for children on reading, writing, yoga, gym, and boot camps which include physical, creative and mind stimulation. The workshops are suitable for kids aged between 1.5 and 6 years. Jumping Genius is located at Tardeo, Prabhadevi, Bandra and Sion Contact: Call 98207 51811 for further details Epson’s Creative Imaging Contest is open for children aged between 8 and 16 years. Participants can explore art through photography, painting, sketching, digital graphics, paper craft, collages etc. All art works must be made using Inkjet or Laser prints. The First Prize winner of the contest will be awarded an Epson wi-fi all-in-one printer plus an all-expenses paid trip to Taipei. The last date to receive entries is January 15 Contact: Call 080 30105000 Send your event details to dnalistings@gmail.com. Please include description of event, venue, timing and cost of attendance, along with photos.

Letters to the editor

Letters to the editor

The need for Virar Panvel local This is in response to your article ‘Virar-Panvel Local plans on fast track’ (DNA, Jan 6). I would like to bring to your attention the plight of the Kurla-Mahul Local line in this regard. The proposal to run locals on the Kurla-Mahul line has been totally ignored all these years despite having a nod from the Central Government and the Railway ministry (In response to the proposal submitted by then MP Kirit Somaiya in parliament in 2004). This old electrified line is currently used only a few times a day to serve the refineries and the RCF plant in Mahul. Starting locals on this stretch would help locals in areas such as Suman Nagar, Chembur Camp, Vashi Naka and Mahul tremendously as they currently have to rely on inadequate BEST services and auto rickshaws to travel to/from Kurla. —Aditya G, via email Century mania This is with reference to the article on the drama surrounding Sachin’s hundredth 100 (January 7, DNA). How do you explain incoherent anchors on various television channels getting super excited when Sachin comes to bat? Enough sycophants will ensure that Sachin continue playing till he is 58 -the official Indian retirement age - before he hangs his boots waiting for that elusive 100. Can we expect our cricketers to finally imbibe some level of team-spirit and gamesmanship by watching their Australian counterparts conduct themselves with such supreme sportsmanship that they do not aim for records but think about what really matters - winning a test. We are only good at cricket and nowadays watching these two pathetic tests, I guess we are aiming for mediocrity there too. Our sportsmen I guess have this insane desire to be made to feel unwanted before they finally hang their boots. —Snehha, by email The best team in the world? This is in reference to the recent 0-2 loss to Australia by the Indian team. One fails to understand why the team goes down under in foreign soils-even with the best players who have been part of the team continuously from past 3-4 tours? It should be noted that the mere term ‘World Champions’ isn’t restricted to wins in India but also across the world’s best cricket playing nations. No wonder the team has been banking upon one person’s jinxed miracle to score 100 centuries which of late is turning out to be a mirage. Why pressure the person who has already accomplished many feats? Why not focus on nurturing the young blood who need the right kind of break-to begin with the Australian tour? If the team doesn’t fit in well it is high time to start replacements immediately to infuse young blood into the team. The team needs to win the remaining matches as well hence this is the right to stay focused on victory itself, and not any individual’s record. —Varun Dambal, Bangalore II Cricket lovers are unable to digest Team India’s ignominious capitulation before the host team’s three fast-bowlers to end up scoring a total of 591 runs in two outings which was still 22 runs less than the 613 runs which the three middle-order Australian batsmen had scored between them in their only innings! The reasons: after Zaheer Khan gave us some hope by reducing them to 37 for 3 wickets, our bowling just melted before the marauding Aussies allowing them to post 659 runs. Our batsmen seem to be suffering from foreign-phobia on overseas pitches and regrettably no one could score a single century. If Ashwin could score 62 runs, it is intriguing why Sehwag, Dravid, Kohli and Dhoni could not do so. The immediate remedy is to sack Duncan Fletcher and send Kapil Dev to guide the team in the remaining two tests. —Dr RV Subramanyan, Mumbai Helmets are compulsory for police, too Apropos to your above report (DNA, January 6) on statistics on motorists booked for not wearing helmet - 3,26,740 in 2007, 5,73,377 in 2008, 2,71,602 in 2009, 2,28,662 in 2010 and 1,90,190 in 2011 till November. I’m sure none of the statistics quoted would have any policemen riding a two wheeler without a helmet. It is a very common site to see most of the policemen including the police patrol riding two wheelers without a helmet. I have halted many of them and drawn their attention and they give a lame excuse that they cannot hear the phone if they put on the helmet. But that is no excuse to violate the law particularly by those who are supposed to maintain it. The Motor Vehicles Act and Rules do not have any such exceptions. I have also drawn the attention of the Police Commissioner as well as Joint Commissioner of Police [Traffic] in writing with photographs, but there has been no action. Can someone take up this matter strongly? —Sharad Kumar, via email Keep the elephants uncovered The EC has issued orders for covering statues of elephants put up in UP, as this is the election symbol of the BSP. This is stretching the sense of a bureaucratic fair play too far. By covering these, even a nondescript symbol will attract curiosity and defeat the very intention of the exercise. Will Congressmen be now asked to offer only ‘ gloved ‘ hands when meeting the electorate or the ‘cycle’ is barred from venues of rallies by the SP? Try covering Lalu’s ‘lanterns’ in Bihar or ordering a solar eclipse in Tamil Nadu ! The EC must now take great care in awarding election symbols that are cost effective in matters of providing them with covers in election time. —R.Narayanan, Ghaziabad