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Inspire Yourself to Give a Gift With These Fun Ideas

Posted on by Aditi Malhotra

For those of us that have a special occasion coming up, have you thought about what you’re getting as a gift yet? Be it a birthday, an anniversary, a seasonal holiday or something more light-hearted such as a friendly reunion, there are plenty of situations in life where we might think about buying a gift. Sadly, it usually turns into a few days of frustration and a lack of ideas, then we’ll cave in and get something generic like flowers, chocolates, a gift card or, even worse, nothing at all!

 

So to give you some excellent sources of inspiration, here are a couple of ways to prepare yourself for the next big event you have. Keep in mind that these are just ideas and you don’t have to resort to them every time, but they’re fantastic ways to gather inspiration so that you have an idea of what to buy in the future whenever you’re stumped for ideas.

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Browse online stores

It doesn’t matter what store you look at. If you browse any online store and look at the most popular items that are being sold, you’ll be able to gather a lot of inspiration and get a lot of ideas for gifts. If you look up cool stuff to buy on Amazon, you’ll come across hundreds of different items that are suitable as gifts. Even if you search something like “gift ideas”, you’ll still find plenty of ideas and before you know it, you’ll have more choice than you imagined.

Look at personalised gifts

 Something personal is always good as a gift. Be it a mug that has a special message on it or a customised greeting card to go with something you’ve already bought, customising a gift adds a wonderful touch to any ordinary gift. It can turn something dull and boring like a sweater into a memorable and cherished gift. That’s one of the most important things about gifting; if your recipient remembers a gift and associates it with a positive memory, then it’ll give them a nice boost of happiness that motivates them to work hard and stay positive throughout the day. A personalised gift can be something you make yourself, or it could be something made to order.

Speak to the recipient

If you want some ideas on what to buy your recipient, then look no further than the recipient themselves! Speak to them, ask them about their favourite musical artists, ask which films they like, or even ask what the latest book they read was. As long as you gather up information about your target, you’ll find it gets easier and easier to prepare a fantastic memorable gift for them. Just try not to give it away and let them know you’re planning to buy a gift for them. Speaking to your gift recipient is also a great way to ensure you don’t buy the same gift as someone else. It’s always worth having a chat before you spend money on something your recipient already has!

Drive to Safety, a CSR initiative by ICICI Lombard

Posted on by Aditi Malhotra

The total number of road accidents in 2015 was 5,01,423 as against 4,89,400 in 2014, representing an increase of 2.5%. The resulting number of deaths in 2015 was 1,46,133, as against 1,39,671, marking an increase of 4.6%. The number of people injured from these accidents was 5,00,279 in 2015, as against 4,93,474 in 2014, an increase of 1.4%.

Two-wheelers were involved in about 31.5% of the total road accidents in the country in FY2015, highest among all vehicle categories. Lack of professional driver’s training, non-use of safety gear (especially helmet by the rider and the pillion rider) and appropriate road safety behavior are among the major causes of road accidents. Age-specific data also shows that children are susceptible to road accident victims being below 14 years. In 2015, 54.1% of those killed belonged to the 15-30 year age group.

In 2016, ICICI Lombard introduced a unique CSR program named ‘Ride to Safety’. This initiative aimed at improving road safety scenario for children who ride two-wheelers as pillion riders. Workshops were conducted across cities to create awareness for road safety and more importantly, influence the driving behavior of two-wheeler riders. Apart from imparting necessary education to children and their parents on road safety habits, ICICI Lombard distributed ISI-marked helmets that children can wear when they ride two-wheelers as pillion riders. The Company conducted more than 150 workshops in Mumbai, Pune and Delhi till March 2017. Apart from spreading the road safety message, it distributed specially designed ISI marked helmets to 24000 children who attended these workshops.

Just yesterday an awareness program cum rally was organised at the Talkatora Stadium, Delhi. The occasion was graced by many eminent personalities like RSS leader Shri Indresh Kumar, Special Commissioner of Police, Shri Ajay Kashyap and also Shri Nitin Gadkari, the honourable Union Minister for Road Transport, Highways & Shipping.

The event saw many top schools of Delhi in presence and it was an eventful day for children as many special activities like Magic Show, Nukkad Natak and Mimicry Artists were lined up for kids. The children also walked up the stage and sang songs showcasing their hidden talents.

See here a ventriloquist engaging and entertaining the children

The session by Indresh Kumar was especially lot of fun for children and he passed on the message of road safety and need for helmets in an engaging manner. In fact all the activities weaved in the message in an interactive yet effective way.

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Nitin Gadkari, himself gave helmets to a few children and then flagged off the rally. The emphasis of the rally was on use of helmets especially by kids who generally pillion at the back seat with adult drivers. The rally had experts riding bikes whereas kids from schools wearing these helmets pillioned.

I must say that it truly was a great event and also overall a great initiative by ICICI Lombard.

Speaking on the occasion, ICICI Lombard MD & CEO, Bhargav Dasgupta said, ” Ride to Safety campaign is a part of our vision to contribute to the community at large. This unique CSR program emphasises that children as pillion riders incorporate the road safety habit of wearing a helmet from young age. Our aim is to see each and every two-wheeler riding child with a helmet. We have already distributed 24,000 child specific ISI marked helmets to children. We are committed to this initiative and will be distributing 1,00,000 helmets in the next 5 years to children riding two wheelers as pillion riders.”

Look Good Everyday with ShopClues as it reveals its new Fashion Avatar!

Posted on by Aditi Malhotra

ShopClues is India’s first and largest online marketplace and recently at an event they announced the launch of their new avatar focused on the fashion category. The underlines theme for this new campaign is #LookGoodEveryday, with focus on trendy clothes, matching jewellery and accessories and completing your look for everyday. The clothes, jewellery, accessories are all very very trendy and appealing and yet very affordable.

The launch event was organised at Nehle Pe Dehla by Niche, in CP and saw some of the leading fashion bloggers and media attend the event. The event had a very casual and party like approach with many exciting games and activities for the audience like Hoop the Trend, Tol Mol ke Bol and Dressing the Mannequin. Shopclues also showcased some of their best collections and also introduced their latest trends through a Fashion Show. I must confess that I fared very badly at the Tol Mol Ke Bol game, as every time I guessed the price for a product, it was much cheaper than my guess. The quality of the products didn’t let me guess it for less, but they truly were very affordable and surprised me every time when the price was revealed. After a few failures, I did manage to guess it right

Radhika Aggarwal, Co-Founder and CBO, Shopclues interacted with the audience and highlighted the idea behind the campaign. She said the focus was on giving a smart dressing wardrobe for which one doesn’t need to spend huge bucks and also there is something for every kind of shopper. Be it men or women, some one who wants simplicity yet look presentable or someone who wants to dress outstandingly, there is truly something for everyone.

Modern Roots is a latest collection for women that represents various handicrafts of India such as pure indigo to mirror work, the range is priced from 499 t0 1599.

Pinks, Yellows and Metallic is a Bollywood inspired collection starting from as low as 149. 9 to 5 Dressing, Flash Dance Shoulders, Summer Florals were some other collections for women. While for men, there was Layered Look, Smart Casuals and Mood Dressing.

Keeping this latest collection in mind, ShopClues has also launched a new TVC, take a look here

To check out the collection visit ShopClues

All I can say is that I had a lot of fun at this event and I now plan to do some shopping for myself from ShopClues.com, what are you waiting for..?

India Runway Week Season 8- Season of Gold, Shimmer and Cuts

Posted on by Aditi Malhotra

Following India Runway Week and being a part of since almost 2-3 years, I can easily say that each year, it takes you to another level. Its definitely a growth story worth mentioning and Kiran Kheva has surely put in a lot of efforts to take it where it today is.

A mix of ace designers and some upcoming wonders, it was a perfect mix of fashion showcasing and also there were a lot of engaging activities for the audience to indulge in. Fashion shuttle was one such interesting activity, a person could go to the fashion shuttle, get dressed in designer wear, get a makeover done and then also get a photo shoot done, I mean it was a great idea. Then also there was a small exhibition area where in all the participating designers exhibited their collection and got the women drooling.

Also season 8 was really high in the shimmer and cuts when it comes to the designer wear showcased by designers. Gold as a colour flew all over and yet this all shimmer had a sense of class and elegance. It was gold and glitter but without being jazzy.

This season at Inda Runway Week redefined metallic, glitters. With color and shimmer being in focus for this season we need to watch out must haves for your wardrobe straight from the India Runway Week season 8 held recently.

Tisharth by Shivani– Tisharth by Shivani Jain brings GOLDEN SUMMER DREAM which is the colour of the sun and Golden are the dreams we weave, golden is the color of goddess and is considered as pious and sacred. Big Boss contestant Nitibha Kaul walked the ramp for the Delhi based designer.

Crmson by Nancy Sood– CRMSON by Nancy Sood collection emphasis on the women who glows in every shade ,diligent and conscientious towards a minutest responsibility,dedicated and devoted in all spheres, navigating her way through time for her to believe that she deserves to maintain her peace without any slightest hesitation.

Priyamvada Dalmia– Priyamvada Couture,’ was born from the deep desire to cater to young, confident women, who define fashion on their own terms. Bollywood Actress Mugdha Godse walked the ramp for Priyamvada. Focusing on Indian Ethnic Wear, this label curate pieces inspired from her own fashion sense and her role models from among the beaming fashion industry.

Clotho INDIA– Clotho showcased unputdownable collection with a pastel palette, nature inspired handwork and embellishments, recoloring nature in different hues and shades. They kept an involvement of translucent textiles with structural as well as falling silhouettes. Their Clothing line is the extension of one personality, not making it a trend but a part of a woman wearing it.

Ritambhara Paliya– Known for Luxury contemporary Indian wear, Ritambhara Paliya is a noted name in Indian Fashion Fraternity, whose hands are well skilled in designing outfits for women of all ages. Ritambhara Paliya specializes in Evening gowns, lehengas, Anarkali’s and maxi dresses and also into fairytale and destination weddings attires that are rooted in quintessentially Indian sensibilities but with the modern twist.

Pooja Peshoria– Pooja Peshoria showcased her fresh and glamorous summer collection ‘The Beauty of Reflection’ at the India Runway Week 2017. Inspired by the natural reflections which illuminate the ocean’s surface, the collection was strong and opulent yet fluid and feminine. Designed for the determined woman of today there was a blend of forward modernity yet rooted with traditional elegance and detailing.

Harkiran Basra– His prime focus was on bridal couture with off-shoulder blouses. Her collection had brocades and sequined dupattas. Her collection surely is a must have especially the dupattas, they were gorgeous.

Designer Mithi Kalra Launches her all new ‘Moonlight Collection’. Her collection is a spectacular sight to behold with her playing with the captivating designs in all white ethereal look. Moonlight basically transpires from the cosmos, which is a like a distant, beautiful space for her as the charm of moon stands almost unparalleled from ages. Through this collection, Kalra has made an effort to not only bring about the wondrous peaceful serenity and tranquillity of the universe but has also consciously tried her best to revive the monochrome trend in a novel avatar, like never before as she clearly believes in giving the style its due.

This year Ikreate had a chance to be the blogging partner for the day 3 of the event and it truly was an opportunity worth all the effort. My special thanks for Kiran and Surabhi, from Media Maniacs for bestowing me with this chance and I really look forward to the next season and more healthy associations.

 

Every Gift Matters- Book Review

Posted on by Aditi Malhotra

A few words about Carrie Morgridge, the author of this really magnificent book, Every Gift Matters.

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She is the Vice President of the Morgridge Family Foundation and diligently alongside her husband working for the past fifteen years to put the foundation’s funds to their ultimate use, spark innovation and generate transformation. She graduated summa cum laude from International Academy of Design and Technology, thus giving her a cutting edge on design innovation. She is an aggressive athlete having finished nine ironman competitions. She and her husband split their time between Colorado and Florida.

The Foundation has taken up leadership funding in various projects with Non profits at the Denver Museum of Nature and Science, National Jewish Health, Mile High United Way to name a few.
She conceptualised and founded the Student Support Foundation creating philanthropy clubs to teach students how best to deal with financial gifts and put them to optimum use.
She also founded the Share Fair Nation, a notional event designed to train thousands of teachers in integrating technology to teach.
Recipient of the distinguished Frances Wisebart Jacobs Woman of the Year in 2010 from Mile High United Way.

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Now about the book,to be honest I thought it would be a drag continuing about philanthropy vis a vis donations, donations and more donation stories. But what a pleasant surprise the book is really engaging and truly captures the spirit and character of its author. Gives us great insight into her humble stumbling beginning into philanthropy to her real capturing of the essence of philanthropy, as she says no gift is too small and if you work at it you can really make your $1 gift the power of $3.

Absolutely superb acumen ably assisted by her various acquaintances turned friends and the ever present support of her husband John.
An enchanting read which really gives you an indepth knowledge of how to go about putting your donation to good use.
Philanthropy is not just about writing a cheque and feel that you have done your bit.
No it is much much more than that as Carrie so beautifully illustrates with numerous big and small anecdotes.
Philanthropy is a responsibility where by giving you make sure your money is put to its right use and brings about a change in the lives of many.
An absolute must read book for everyone.
Kudos to Carrie for sharing her experiences and showing how to keep learning from your mistakes and keep going.

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You can log on to http://morgridgefamilyfoundation.org to know more about the foundation and Carrie.

The book is available on Amazon for Rs 1325/- for hardcover and Kindle version is available for Rs 66/-

Artisera ; an online marketplace that is redefining boundaries..!!

Posted on by Aditi Malhotra

Artisera is an online destination for ‘artistic luxury’ where one can discover and buy unique pieces of fine art, collectibles, home décor, and furniture from India and around the world
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“People often associate the word ‘art’ with paintings, but we’re redefining those boundaries. To us, art means to fill up a space in a beautiful way. Our emphasis is to promote ‘fine art’ as a whole, including contemporary and modern art as well as traditional art forms, sculpture, and photography. And we believe art should extend to other elements of our home and personal spaces as well, such as furniture, tableware, rugs, décor and more” Says the co-founder of Artisera, Lisa Jain. She and her husband Varun Bakliwal launched www.artisera.com in October 2015. Since then, through their ‘invite-only’ market place model, they have managed to partner with over thirty of the most trusted and reputed stores, galleries, designers and artists across the country to house a mix of contemporary and traditional pieces for the discerning client.

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Every piece on the website is either one of a kind or limited edition. The fine art ranges from traditional tanjores to photography and sculptures. There are rare vintage collatables and curios along with porcelean pieces, tableware and lighting. Accent chairs and tables, consoles and cabinets with their unique flair are also part of the collcection.

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Artisera works closely with its partners to curate the pieces you see on the website. If a client likes something listed on the platform, they can buy from it directly, and the order then gets fulfilled by the partners. They also cater to custom inquiries by clients; for e.g. if you’re looking for a specific style or piece, they will work with their partner network to try and source it. The partners include The Great Eastern Home, Balaji Antiques, Cocoon Fine Rugs, Jaipur Rugs, Sarita Handa, Essajees, PortsideCafé Furniture Studio, Vadehra Art Gallery, Kynkyny Art Gallery, Tasveer, Anemos and Navrathan Antique Arts to name a few.

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Although there are many interesting online ventures in the aspirational or luxury fashion space, there isn’t any single platform that helps individuals discover exquisite, non-mass manufactured, unique art pieces in all its different forms, from the best brands in the business. And that’s what Artisera is doing. They are very clear in their focus, and are catering to a niche, defined audience. Their clients could be young or old, experienced or novice, living in a big city or a smaller town, but they are all looking for high quality pieces, with a story and a history.

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The curation is what really sets them apart. They want the experience on the website to be similar to when you walk into a store or gallery filled with beautiful pieces, admiring every creation, enjoying the sheer process of discovery. At Artesera they understand that the buying experience is critical in the luxury space. And that’s why, even though they are an online store, there is a significant offline element to the Artisera experience. They speak to each client personally, offer advisory services, host gatherings and events to offer a ‘touch and feel’ experience, and help clients with art appreciation. The range of Collectibles is unique and hard to find. Working with some of the most well-respected dealers/stores in this space, they’ve managed to curated some exceptional curios, rare porcelain pieces, and vintage collectibles, which appeal to seasoned collectors as well as those who are just starting out.

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Knowledge and information about different art forms is still limited. And it’s very important for someone to feel comfortable and informed before making a high value purchase. And this is why at Artisera they look beyond selling. Through relevant, high quality, interesting content, they help people develop an appreciation for artistic luxury.

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“We also believe, that a luxury art and lifestyle business cannot be completely online. While many people will discover new ideas and sellers, buy products, and gain access to what is outside their city digitally, the touch and feel aspect will continue to be critical to some. And that’s why, we want to help our Partners not just with sales on Artisera, but also by driving more people to their physical stores, after being discovered online” Says Varun.

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About the founders and their journey

Artisera has been founded by the husband-wife duo Varun Backliwal and Lisa Jain with a vision to create an international art-focused luxury brand.

Varun is the fourth generation of a family that is associated with the fine arts and handicrafts trade since 70+ years. After spending close to a decade in the family business, he completed his MBA from IESE Business School in Barcelona. He then began working in the startup investment ecosystem and mentored retail-focused tech startups. That’s when the idea to marry his two areas of expertise struck him.

Lisa comes with extensive experience across investment banking in London and marketing and strategy in the education sector in India. Alongside Artisera, she also owns a successful education venture. She completed her undergrad at University of Warwick, UK and MBA at the Indian School of Business, Hyderabad. As an outsider to the art trade, Lisa brings a unique and fresh perspective to the business.

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They had understood that the digital landscape is evolving rapidly and the need to have meaningful online visibility cannot be ignored by traditional brick-and-mortar businesses. Although there were many interesting online ventures in the fashion space, there wasn’t any single platform that helped individuals discover exquisite, handcrafted, non-mass manufactured art pieces in all its different forms, such as furniture, fine art, collectibles etc. Here is where the opportunity was percieved.

“We have different personalities, backgrounds, and skillsets, but there is one common factor – both of us come from families with a strong entrepreneurial bent of mind. In fact, we were the first in our respective families to get a job. So after having spent some time successfully in the corporate world, we decided to come together, launch a business, and create jobs instead”

They are passionate about not just helping individuals buy (especially those new to this world), but also help them learn about, and develop an appreciation for different art forms. And that’s why they have a strong emphasis on educating and knowledge sharing at Artisera.

Lastly, having a deep understanding of this trade gives Varun and Lisa an advantage. The art and collectibles trade still operates in a very traditional way. Because of Varun’s background in his family business, they are able to solve very real problems for their partner brands, without asking them to shift their focus from what they know and do best.

So if you are planning to buy exclusive, unique and luxury gifts this festive season, think no more, just log on to  www.artisera.com and see your wish come true.. happy shopping..!!

Prashant Rawalia announced as winner of the Monin Cup 2016!

Posted on by Aditi Malhotra

MONIN – the world leader in gourmet syrups headquartered  in France, announced the champion of the MONIN CUP 2016.

In its 4th edition, this biannual  contest continued to celebrate the young talent in the field of bartending.  After a nationwide search to find top bartenders across India Prashant Rawalia won the MONIN CUP 2016.

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Prashant Rawalia gets a chance to showcase his talent & represent India in International bartending challenge scheduled on the 5th of  December in Paris, France. He will compete with 80 other national champions , drawn after a thorough search for young talent in each of these countries .

In a nail-biting finale, 12 finalists from 4 cities (3 from Delhi-NCR, Bangalore, Mumbai & Pune each) competed neck to neck at Hard Rock Cafe in Gurgaon on 7th Oct to confer the winner title.  All the cocktails prepared by finalist bartenders were put through both technical and sensory evaluations .The event was judged by a panel of the industry’s elite experts including Master Mixologist, Andrea Fidora, Yandup Lama, Food Critic, Sourish Bhattacharya,Shalini Kumar and Pawan Soni.

The finalists were challenged on their full range of skills as hospitality professionals. Prashant Rawalia prevailed throughout the competition with his outstanding showmanship and innovative cocktail creation, technique and performance under pressure.

Additionally, to this, the event also showcased a master class on professional and home  bartending from the master of cocktails, Andrea Fidora. He enlightened guests with some quick tips on how to prepare awesome drinks at home using MONIN products. World-class, flare champions Pankaj  and Sachin rocked the highly charged crowd with their wizardry and supreme flair to bring the house down!

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Mr. Ravi Kathuria – Director Business development SAARC countries said, “MONIN CUP 2016 is one of the top international competitions in India and provides a prestigious platform  to the young upcoming bartending talent in our country to showcase their prowess at the global scale. The MONIN cup is part of the strategy to train , encourage and groom young talent which MONIN as a leader in beverage innovation is adopting in India and the 144 countries we operate in.”

Commenting on the occasion Mr. Ashish Dubey – Managing Director, Saksham Impex said, “We are happy and proud be associated with MONIN, and organizing this cup . In past few weeks, we have witnessed the most exquisite display of first class mixology. We believe it’s a huge opportunity for the next generation who are the future of bartending. The final 12 were exceptional and judges had a tough time to select the winner, however Prashant Rawaliacut the chase with his/her bartending skills. We also want to thank all our judges,especially Andrea who gave our guests some useful tips on creating fine drinks at home.”

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About MONIN

With 100 years of experience MONIN has become a brand of choice of the gourmet flavour business with over 140 flavours in more than 145 countries. MONIN is the brand of choice of the creative beverage makers, from barista in coffee shops, to mixologists creating high-end cocktails, to operators offering simple cocktail solutions. 7 million drinks are made every day using MONIN products. MONIN is currently present in more than 145 countries. For more info, https://www.monin.com/

The brand is currently distributed in India through Saksham Group, http://www.sakshamimpex.com/

Book Review: When Arya Fell Through The Fault

Posted on by Sunil Malhotra

This is a book by Reenita Malhotra Hora who is an award winning broadcast journalist,Ayurveda clinician and author of books on Ayurveda and Finance.
Operation Mom:How I Got my Mother a Life and Man her debut fiction novel has been widely acclaimed and recognized as a must-read young adult book written by an Indian author.

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When Arya Fell Through The Fault is her second release in this genre.Reenita anchors a popular morning programme on Hongkong’s RTHK Radio 3.Her weekend storytelling show,Asian Threads won her a Gold Trophy at the New York festivals International Radio Programmes Awards.

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A native of Mumbai,she currently lives in Hongkong with her family.
The book essentially is the growing up tale of a twelve year old Arya a “Brownie” from San Francisco who is continuously ridiculed by his schoolmates be it for his color to his ethnic traditional food.
The boy has been brought up at home on traditional,fascinating and magical mythological stories by his ever cheerful Mom more precisely the Ramayan.
It is a tale of a typical child who is ridiculed by one and all and his endeavor by any means to get rid of the Brownie image by any means
His frustrations and trials and turbulations are aptly described.
In the eagerness to be accepted by others he takes to the path of evil despite his mothers stern warnings.
It so happens that he becomes the cause of a severe accident which leaves his mother in a state of coma.
The one thing Arya holds on to dearly is his mothers copy of the Ramayana.
From hereon the author very cleverly juxtaposes the young Aryas fight against evil through the characters of the Ramayana.
Does good prevail over evil,Is Arya able to save her Mom while fighting his own demons makes for a very interesting read.
Grab a copy and get ready to be transported to the glorious era of Ramayana.
Fascinating Read.
Highly recommended.

Available on Amazon

Price: Rs 125/-

Rating: 4/5 stars

Hugo Barra, Vice President, Xiaomi Launches MI Air Purifier 2 – A smart way to clean air !

Posted on by Sunil Malhotra

Well well Xiaomi one of the leading technology giants who entered India in 2014 with their wide range of smartphones have now launched their first Smart Home Product the MI Air Purifier 2 in India and that too at a very very affordable price of INR 9,999 only.

It is a very intelligent product with really smart features that help you make the air you breathe cleaner and healthier without any fuss.

Bring home a Xiaomi Air Purifier 2, download the MI Home App and turn your smartphone into a remote to control for your MI Air Purifier. Put the Air Purifier on Auto Mode and it will automatically adjust itself to the air around using the inbuilt sensors so don’t have to keep checking time n again. It will also give you a reminder when the filter needs a change. The filter when need to be changed is easily available online.

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With the launch of Mi Air Purifier 2 in India, Xiaomi is poised to play a part in increasing awareness about air pollution in India and how technology can be applied to better people’s lives.

Hugo Barra, Vice President, Xiaomi, who was present for the launch, said: “Air pollution is becoming an alarming public health concern in India. It is heartening to see more conversation around the situation, but there is still a big gap when it comes to consumer awareness. We believe that we are able to play a role in increasing awareness about air pollution by including AQI data into our MIUI Weather app, and by introducing Mi Air Purifier 2 to India. At this game-changing price, Mi Air Purifier 2 is set to disrupt the air purifier category in India, enabling us to bring these technological innovations to everyone.”

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According to the World Health Organization, 22 of the world’s 50 most polluted cities are in India, contributed significantly by industrial and vehicular exhaust. Particulate matter 2.5 (PM2.5) — air pollutants with a diameter of 2.5 microns or less — are small enough to enter even the smallest airways and could result in respiratory and cardiovascular illness.

To increase awareness about air pollution, Xiaomi has now become the first smartphone brand in India to integrate Air Quality Index (AQI) data — which also reflects the measurement of PM2.5 particles in the air — into its MIUI 8 Weather app.

We all present at the launch were absorbing this useful information with great interest, as Mr Hugo Barra, went on to share these details with us.

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Mi Air Purifier 2 quickly removes PM2.5 particles, dust, indoor plant pollen, pet fur and more. With its high 310m3/h CADR (Clean Air Delivery Rate), Mi Air Purifier 2 takes just 10 minutes to circulate purified air in a 21m2 room. Even so, the motor is extremely energy efficient with a low power consumption of 4.8W, while advanced aerodynamics reduce noise and wind resistance, resulting in a noise level as low as 30dB in Night mode.

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The 360° cylindrical filter on Mi Air Purifier 2 takes in air more efficiently from every direction compared to conventional air purifiers. Its triple-layer design removes particles larger than 0.3 microns with a high-density EPA filter, while an activated carbon filter removes formaldehyde, bad odour and other harmful substances.

Mi Air Purifier 2 will be available on Mi.com starting 26th September at 12 PM. It will also be available on Flipkart (exclusive partner) from 2nd October.

Here are some key features of Mi Air Purifier 2:

  • Real-time AQI monitoring, Wi-Fi connectivity
  • Mi Home app smart controls (Android and iOS)
  • Aerodynamic air vortex, up to 37m2 (400 sq. ft.) coverage
  • 310m3/h Clean Air Delivery Rate (CADR)
  • 360° triple-layer filter, removes harmful PM2.5 articles
  • 4.8W energy saving, ultra-quiet 30dB noise level
  • Compact form factor: 520mm tall and base area smaller than an A4 sheet of paper
  • Replacement filter available online at INR 2,499

I had a terrific time understanding this information first hand from Mr. Hugo Barra at a recently held media event.

I am definitely gonna try this product and I am sure all of you will also do so, as cleaner air is not luxury but a necessity!

India Runway Week Season 7: High on Creativity by New Gen designers..!!

Posted on by Aditi Malhotra

The much awaited fashion extravaganza India Runway Week in association with Big Boy Toyz, Season 7 Winter/Festive Edition commenced at Thyagraj Stadium. The show opened with the designs of International Designer Bibi Russell  under the name of “Rajasthali”. The day one of the India Runway Week was high on creativity, where experienced designers ruled the ramp, the newbies were also not far behind. The names of the 1st day designers are Daniel Sayiem, Miku Kumar, Shreeya Somaiya, Shweta Sarda, Ishithaa Design House, Preet Jhaver, IGT By Isha Gupta Tayal, Varija Bajaj & Satomi, Aditya Khandelwl & Studio AV by Gaurav and Nitesh.

Designer  Bibi Rusell from Bangladesh after giving a makeover to Rajasthan government textile division under the name of Rajasthali by Bibi Rusell showcased its first collection under this label on the first day of  India Runway Week winter festive 2016. The entire collection was made from this handspun and hand-woven fabric diversified by art and design intervention to be made more suitable for the modern context.

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Daniel Syiem from North East also shared the ramp with Bibi Russell in the opening show. His label Breathe Easy is an attempt to make clothes feel like second skin to your body. Blending pure cotton and raw silk with tribal weaves from North East India, the collection comprised of looks that cater to men and women who just want to break free….and breathe easy.

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Shreeya Somaiya, introduced her debut collection inspired by the classic Shakespearean ballet “A Midsummer Night& 39’s Dream.”  Her designs translated the enchanting world of magic and love charms that the play represents. The collection focused on encapsulating the spirit of feminine power with a touch of elegance that the female characters of the play demonstrate. The outfits were beautifully embellished with antique gold sequence with intricate flower details. This made the designs distinctly modern and supremely feminine. Her collection was both glamorous yet timelessly classic which took you back to the world of fantasy.

On the other hand beautiful actress Soha Ali Khan walked the ramp for designer from Hyderabad Shweta Sharda, who presented the glory of womanhood through her designs on the ramp. Shweta wanted to depict the brave step taken by women in redesigning their own map to explore the World.  “Her Collection is about women like me who love to travel around the world” said Soha Ali Khan.

Deepika Reddy from Ishithaa Design House launched her debut Winter / Festive collection ‘Vadhuvu’ at India Runway Week. The collection ‘Vadhuvu’ meaning bride in Telugu; echoed what every South Indian Bride desires to be on her big day. The Hues and textures of the lehengas, gowns and the Kanchipuram silk sarees are what every girl would lust after. The collection also exhibited the fine craftsmanship behind the Indian Bridal wear. Reframing The Regal by Designer by Isha Gupta Tayal was an amalgamation of British Empire and royal India. It came up with a desire to see Indian women breaking out of their pearl cages and enter into royal steampunk adventures.  The collection was all about “Imaginative  Dressing” , invention, adventure and worldliness. Portraying the modest and focused fashion. Steampunk couture mixing with victorian cuts and regal intricate Indian embroideries, cutwork & brass accessories were all juxtaposed to create the exotic and ethnic ensembles. While speaking about her collection Varija said, “We see virtual heroes on the silver screen who are good, fight all evils and are perfect in every possible way. We aspire to be like them in our real lives. Then we see Super Heroes, who fight battles in real lives to protect others. The Army, Navy, Airforce and the Police are constantly battling for our peace and happiness. But even above them are ‘persons with disabilities’ who are the Real Heroes that fight daily battles with taboos, society, their own health, insecurities and a constant fight to prove their abilities over disabilities. “

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Actor Mugdha Godse walked the ramp for Satomi By Rakam. They showcased the collection under the name ‘Myrah’ which goes back to the ancient times of 17 th century. It elucidated an aristocratic lady who is extraordinary and admirable. It symbolized women of exquisite charm, with motifs inspired by age old art with a modern twist to create history. ‘Myrah’ emboldened and revealed the essence of a captivating and splendidly statuesque woman with a strong sense of self. Aditya Khandelwal showcased some of the most intricate and extravagant pieces in a fusion style statement marrying the silhouettes from the British Raj to India’s own traditional Mughal embroidery and richness.  Khandelwal told us that with the keen attention to detail and craftsmanship, made his pieces stand apart for the discerning eye, ‘Each attire is designed with precision, and says something about the personality and taste of the wearer’.

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Day 1 came to an end with the show of Studio AV by Gaurav and Nitesh, actor Mandana Karimi sizzled the ramp as a showstopper for them . Studio AV by Gaurav and Nitesh presented their beautiful collection ‘Dhaage’ at the India Runaway Week. The mesmerizing collection, aptly named ‘Dhaage’, was the beautiful journey of threads into a Masterpiece. The entire collection was handmade in threads with a little bit of zardosi and dapka work to add some glitter.

ABOUT: India Runway Week

India Runway Week is Asia’s youngest fashion trade event. Each season of the much-awaited IRW introduce new talent and places young Indian designers firmly on the global fashion stage. IRW provides a platform for both established and upcoming talented designers but also introduce fresh designers to showcase their collections. This gives them excellent business opportunities from both bulk and retail buyers. In addition to facilitating the exchange of ideas and networking interactions between designers, buyers and affiliates, the event provides an enriching experience for everyone.

About Indian Federation for Fashion Development: IFFD provides the opportunity for fashion industry members, both new and old, to create networks that will facilitate action and inspire industry growth. IFFD provide useful & up-to-date information to keep the industry on top of what is happening locally and abroad, to make it more competitive and to encourage a thirst for quality education.

IFFD provides a marketing platform for all within the industry; from the student who want to share her talent to the household names we have come to know and love. By increasing local and international awareness of Indian brands and talent, IFFD hope to inspire increased demand and brand loyalty. With these primary directives IFFD hope to assist in creating a positive knock on effort that will facilitate job creation and growth for the industry.

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