Best Guide to Plan a Beautiful Trip to Australia from India

March 18, 2022

If you are looking to travel for pleasure and explore a new place, Australia is the best way to go! The picturesque locations and the variety in geographic locales offer the visitors the best of all worlds. If you are planning a trip to Australia, here is a guide you can use to make your trip beautiful and carefree.

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Tips to plan your trip to Australia

Set the duration of your trip – The deterrent to sightseeing is only your jet lag. If you can deal with it, you can see a lot in 2 weeks. They are enough to go through the major sites in the country.
Budget for the trip – When you are making the budget, including the cost of getting a visa, accommodations, flight, meals, travelling within the country, and paying for travel insurance.
Get a visa in advance – There is no visa for arrival for Indians in Australia. Documents required for the Australian tourist visa from India are original passport with 6 months validity from time of travel, visa application form, pan or aadhar copy, financial statements, income tax returns, employment proofs, and slips, hotel bookings, marriage certificate (if married), flight bookings, and, cover letter mentioning details of passengers. Visa processing can take up to a month approximately.
Time to visit – The seasons in Australia are conducive for an enjoyable visit most of the year. The summers are hot and humid. Autumn is a great time for walking and hiking, and winter is perfect for snorkeling and diving. Spring can be hot, but it is a good time to visit rainforests and wildlife.

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What to do and what to see in Australia?

Plan your trip around your interests and pick what you want to see. If you are planning to enjoy the picturesque landscape of Australia by road you can check out alphacarhire for affordable car rentals they are convenient, flexible, and cost-effective.

Australia’s cultural attractions include the National Museum of Australia, Australian Parliament House, Australian War Memorial, National Gallery of Australia, and all these are located in Canberra. Australian National Maritime Museum, Opera Australia, Sydney House Opera are some of the cultural jewels of Australia situated in Sydney.
Some of the bewitching natural landmarks in Australia are Staircase to the moon, The turning of Fagus, Bioluminescent Plankton, Lavender Fields, Wildflower bloom, Aurora Australis, and many more. Out of these unique experiences, some are specific to the season, while some are worth seeing all year round.
You can take a walk or go on a tour and have splendid aboriginal experiences. These immersive experiences can be great, especially if you travel with your family.
If you are an adrenaline-lover, you can experience all kinds of adventure sports in Australia. You have a wide range that starts from camping and goes on to rafting, fishing, surfing, scuba diving, snorkeling.
The culinary experience in Australia can blow your mind and be an experience of a lifetime. You can dig into the freshest seafood and visit a winery, and you can visit amazing restaurants that are famous worldwide.

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Top places to visit in Australia

While you can visit the places around the cities you have planned, here are a few places that are definitely worth a detour.

Bondi beach – Perhaps the most popular beach in Australia, Bondi offers a list of things to do when you go there. You can spend an entire day relaxing by the beach and brunching while you laze.
Kangaroo Island – It has an unbelievably beautiful coastline that houses a lot of marine life and many kinds of animals. The native wildlife and farmlands are definitely worth a visit.
Margaret River – This small region offers adventure sports, beautiful wines, and beaches. The wine of this region has also made a mark on the world.
Alice Springs – Nestled in the mountain ranges, this small town has a lot to offer. You can have the chance to meet baby kangaroos and spend time stargazing. You can go on a hot air balloon adventure and take a walk through the Botanic gardens. You can peruse the local markets, visit the local brewery, and take a camel ride.

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Why is travel insurance essential?

Travel insurance is essential no matter which country you are visiting. While travelling there may be a lot of things that can go wrong without you intending to. If you have a travel insurance policy, you can get out of situations when you lose your baggage, your passport, and when your flights get delayed or cancelled.

If you have an accident, then it takes care of the personal accident cover as well. Apart from an accident, you may get unwell and need medical attention. If you have travel insurance, you can file a claim and get your money back. Travel insurance protects you against paying for any of these. You can file a claim from your smartphone as well!

Use these tips to plan a beautiful trip across Australia and enjoy the best the country has to offer. Plan an itinerary according to your interests to get the most out of your trip. The best part of going on a trip to Australia is that every region has its own specialty, and every region has something valuable to offer.

Kheta – An Exhibition of Embroidery Expression by the Shershabadi Women

Tasneem Sariya

March 17, 2022

There still are pockets in our country that are hubs of untouched and heritage art forms. Kheta is one such artistic expression that is exclusively practiced by the Shershabadi women from Krishanganj district in Bihar. Kheta are embroidered quilts with geometrical motifs. And bringing them to the limelight is the Kheta Exhibition 2022 held at the National Crafts Museum & Hastkala Academy, New Delhi from 4th March 2022 – 3rd April 2022.

About Kheta and the Shershabadi women

The Shershabadi community originally settled in the land given to them by Emperor Sher Shah Suri in the Malda district of Bangladesh. The community over the years migrated westwards along the rivers and today is settled in Krishanganj and other neighboring districts of Bihar and Bengal in India.

Though similar embroidered arts, such Kantha from Bengal and Sujnis from Bihar are well-known, Kheta has largely remained elusive and undocumented. It is an art that has been passed from one generation of women to another. In fact, Kheta is so intrinsically woven in their daily lives, that the Shershabadi women do it every day whenever they get time, in between their household chores and responsibilities.

The Kheta quilts are made from stitching and layering a few old recycled clothing, such as saris. The quilt are made using a needle and thread and their designs are inspired by natural patterns and geometric motifs like flowers, flowing rivers, betel leaves, movement of earthworms, basketry and more. However, over the years the Shershabadi women have developed their own unique quilting techniques of pure geometric forms, avoiding the figurative descriptions of Sujni and the circular patterns of Kantha.

The social and cultural facets

The Kheta quilts are usually used as blankets for newborn children or as mattresses for newlywed couples. Unlike, many other embroidery and quilting techniques, the Kheta quilts are designed single handedly by one woman alone. Each Kheta quilt is a signature style and design of one person. Also, the art of learning this form of embroidery and quilting is taught to as little as 10 year-old girls. Young girls pick it up and continue to create differently designed quilts throughout their life.

However, another interesting cultural detail is that the community usually makes the Kheta quilts only for their personal use. It is a symbol of a women’s understanding and abilities. It is a skill that defines their role in their society and community. The Kheta pieces are, in fact, priceless possessions that are gifted to the daughter when she gets married or when she has children.

But the Zamin Astar Foundation and Azad India Foundation in the last four years have been doing extensive work with the Shershabadi women artisans. And their efforts have hugely impacted the potential of having an international presence as well as fuelling grassroot level entrepreneurial ventures.

Many women from the community are looking forward to the myriad opportunities that their skill and art can help them unravel. They see the monetization and selling for their quilts as a way of helping them become financially independent. However, the Kheta quilts still remain an intrinsically personal and passion pet project for the Shershabadi women.

About the exhibition

The Exhibition is in collaboration with Craft Museum & Hastkala Academy, Delhi and in academic partnership with Indian Institute of Art and Design, Delhi, organized by Zameen Astar Foundation and Azad India Foundation. The exhibition will have a display of embroidered (quilted) products in textile gallery, workshops by the Shershabadi women for educational Institutions to learn the craft, expert talk(s), and film screening/audio visual sessions providing insights into the Shershabadi community and culture as well as sale of Kheta Products from the Museum Shop.

The Kheta project has been envisioned and documented by Saumya Pandey, Associate Professor, Course Leader Fashion Design at IIAD and a Co-founder of the Zameen Astra Foundation in collaboration with the Azad India Foundation from Kishanganj.

The students of IIAD (Indian Institute of Art and Design) are also lending a helping hand. They were introduced to the Kheta craft cluster as a part of their Craft and Film making project. They worked with the women artisans to investigate their connection between technique and expression. The students under the leadership of various professors have worked towards documenting the craft, exploring the creation of livelihood avenues for the Shershabadi women and also preserving the craft itself. They have also helped in conceptualizing and designing the exhibition space and creating invites and invitation videos that spread the word.

Summary
If your interest in the Kheta quilts has been piqued then the month-long exhibition is a must visit. Learn about this unique art and the women behind it all. Note the details below:

KHETA: An Exhibition Of Embroidery Expressions by the Shershabadis
Venue: National Crafts Museum & Hastkala Academy, Bhairon Marg, Pragati Maidan, New Delhi
Date: 4th March 2022 -3rd April 2022
Time: 10:00 am to 5:00 pm.

In Music Heaven – Era of 1970s

Caleidoscope

March 15, 2022

As a young boy growing up in 1970s India, my primary music source was Vividh Bharti, the national radio station. It mainly was Hindi film songs that dominated its airtime. Choice? What choice? We listened to what they played – and cherished it too. The radio’s frequent static and mono sound did not take away the enjoyment of listening to music in the comfort of our homes, in music heaven.

As much as Vividh Bharti loomed large in Indian households, we were a step ahead in the music game at our home. Our German-made Siemens gramophone record player not only made us envious of neighbours but also offered a luxurious experience in music in those days. At almost three feet tall and about two feet wide, this turntable was gigantic as far as music players go. My uncle, who had emigrated to the U.S., had left this proud possession behind for us, along with about a dozen LP vinyl records. Most of those records were Western classical music; it could have been Beethoven or Mozart, for all I know. To the young boy that I was, it all sounded like a background score.

But there was one record of the songs of the 1967 movie Shagird, which was the favourite of all in our family. I remember listening to the catchy tunes Dil Vil Pyaar Vyaar and Badey Miyan Diwane with great joy. Compared to the static-laden sounds of the radio, the crisp music—even though still flat and mono—emanating from those black vinyl records was an experience of delight available to a rare few in those days.

A few years later, my uncle, now settled in the U.S., gifted us a Panasonic audio cassette player on one of his visits to India. And that started a cherished indulgence for my brother and me. We would take a new TDK cassette to Rhythm House, our local music shop, to record songs of our choosing. At 20 rupees for this service, this was an expansive indulgence considering our limited spending allowance in those days. But the payoff was a priceless privilege: we were young teens who could now own music personally cherry-picked by us!

It never occurred to us that spending an amount that called for sacrificing a good many ice-cream cones and video games at the parlour to get less than a couple of dozen tracks of our liking still left a whole universe of songs that remained unavailable to us. We were just tickled pink to have our curated music, no matter how limited in size. We would then play that tiny universe of songs repeatedly to the point of absurdity. I remember how the themes of Golmaal, the Utpal Dutt-Amol Palekar starrer comedy, played incessantly in my head even in the middle of school days. We had ordered those songs not because we thought that was great music, but because, I guess, that was what was trending at that time.

And then came a milestone moment in my musical journey. A new friend we made in the neighbourhood owned the latest, swankiest boombox. With its two prominent circular speakers, shining in all their metallic glory, the boombox not only looked way groovier than our modest and ageing cassette player but also boasted audio quality that was something to write home about.

That dazzling device was my introduction not only to stereophonic sound but also to Western pop music. I remember being blown away the first time I listened to ABBA on that boombox. Especially Voulez-Vouz!

We soon became addicts of friend’s growing collection of ABBA, Boney M., Michael Jackson and other icons of those times. For someone who had grown up between Indian melodies, these sounds of Western pop were downright psychedelic in their effect. Night Flight to Venus, in particular, I felt, accomplished its mission of transporting the listener to a place far outside the orbit of Earth, at least figuratively.

Fast-forward a few decades, and we had now notched up our music experience to a level unimaginable to our 1980s selves when we thought we were already at the peak of futuristic sounds. Today, our smartphones have the potential to provide us with 8-D surround sound audio. Top it with virtually unlimited choices of music from all around the world, earbuds with technology that would put to shame those fancy boomboxes from our past, and we now live in an age of musical nirvana.

On a recent Sunday, I perched myself, shirtless, on an easy chair on the deck of our suburban home in the U.S., intending to nurse my pain-riddled, arthritic body with some Vitamin D from the morning sun. Armed with my noise-cancelling earbuds and my subscriptions to Spotify and Gaana, I soon lost myself in a four-hour-long musical marathon that was as wild as it was satiating. As someone who enjoys good music in rare moods and by no means is a well-informed connoisseur of music, that morning, I made up for all those times in the car when I hadn’t listened to music (I prefer audiobooks or silence).

‘Wild,’ because of the extreme chaos of genres that I felt in a mood of mixing up. One minute I was playing Pitbull’s Give Me Everything Tonight,’ and the next, a classical bhajan by the timeless maestro, Pandit Jasraj. Sometimes you may be in the mood for a particular genre over some time. Still, there is a different kind of excitement in contrasting wildly divergent genres, one immediately after another.

In that single morning, I traversed a broad spectrum of music that included all of the following and surely more that I forget now: old Hindi hits, American classics from Frank Sinatra and Tony Bennett to Nat King Cole, ghazals, qawwalis, contemporary Bollywood hits, a cappella (Bobby McFerrin’s Don’t Worry, Be Happy), the fantastic contemporary music coming out of the Coke Studios of both India and Pakistan, and even some Persian classical instrumental. And since I was in the mood for experimentation, I also took in Barbershop Quartet and African American Choir songs. What is indeed wild is that the latter came in immediately following a beautiful rendition of Hanuman Chalisa by Shankar Mahadevan and Pandit Jasraj.

And did I mention the knock-out session between all of this, of the fusion of Zakir Hussain on tabla with Jazz drummer Eric Harland? Zakir is one artist, one genre, that I could happily do a whole four-hour stretch of. Not only is he a masterful virtuoso of his instrument, but he plays with his entire being. His dancing eyes and delightful facial gestures accompanying his brilliant improvisations during live concerts are a sheer joy to watch. His collaborations with diverse world musicians, each at the top of their game, are guaranteed mood elevators. And no one does jugalbandi—the playful, improvised interactions between two instrumentalists—like this Ustaad of the percussion. With playful aplomb, he teases out the best from his talented co-conspirators in any given concert.

Listening to Duma Dum Mast Qalandar by Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan is a treat in and by itself. What I felt, at least that morning, is that it is even more fun to listen to when it comes at the heels of Jerry Lee Lewis’s Great Balls of Fire!

Try it sometimes. Go on a crazy roller coaster of a ride in music constrained only by your imagination and your mood. No rules! Sitting on the deck on that warm, cloudless blue-sky day, I indulged in songs of white Christmas and loved it! That morning, even I didn’t know what was coming next till I was done with the track on hand.

About the Author

Parthiv N. Parekh is the editor-in-chief of Khabar, an award-winning monthly magazine for Indian-Americans (www.khabar.com/about). His writing has appeared in The Atlanta Journal Constitution, The Hill, Huffington Post (U.S.) and other publications.

4 Modern Kitchen Design Tips to Swear By

Cscope Staff

March 8, 2022

There is no denying that the kitchen is the most frequented area of your home. So, it should be functional, convenient, and easy to use. Lately, people have been moving away from traditional kitchen designs to a more modern kitchen.

This is because a modern kitchen design is highly functional, looks stylish, and takes care of all your needs. If you want to transform your kitchen into a modern kitchen design, here are 4 kitchen design tips to swear by.

Colour Palette

The colour palette in a modern kitchen design is one of the most important aspects of it as it lays the foundation for your kitchen. When selecting the colour palette you must take various factors into consideration like lighting, space, kitchen appliances, and more.

It is important that you don’t get influenced by trends and select colour designs that are bold like dark shades and stripes as there is a great possibility that you will not like these in the next few years.

The best colour choice for your modern kitchen design is to go for something neutral and timeless. Going for a monochromatic colour scheme can be a great option. You can select two colours that are muted yet complementary like white and grey, and add an accent colour like yellow to brighten up the space.

Kitchen Islands and Walkways

A kitchen island can be personalised according to the modern kitchen design that best fits your specific needs. A kitchen island is multi-purposeful as it can be used for chopping, cooking, keeping appliances, and even eating.

A kitchen island in modern kitchen design can be placed in the centre of the space or in one corner. The colour of this must be in tandem with the colour palette of the walls, floor, and cabinets.

A defining feature of a modern kitchen design is clean and minimalist space. Which means having no clutter, and enough space to walk around. You must make sure that there is enough space to move around the kitchen freely and maneuver while cooking easily.

Minimalistic Design

A modern kitchen design must focus on the integral elements of the kitchen. It must be uncluttered, and clean. Unlike other kitchens, modern kitchen design doesn’t have any art or decorative pieces hanging from the walls or have any confusing textures.

The concept behind modern kitchen design is that less is more and there is no need to fill up space with things that don’t serve any purpose. This extends to the kitchen island and cabinets as well.

The cabinets in modern kitchen design emphasise minimalist design and clean lines which makes frameless cabinets a must-have. Their simple yet stark design gives a refined and elegant look to the kitchen.

Kitchen Appliances

There will be many appliances that will be kept on display in your kitchen, thus making sure that they fit well with your modern kitchen design is necessary. There must be sufficient space for your kitchen appliances while also leaving some free space.

The height at which the appliances are placed also needs to be appropriate. In your kitchen design, the microwave must be placed at a height so that it is easy to access for everyone. They also need to be kept away from corners as that may not allow the door to open all the way.

Transforming your kitchen into a modern kitchen design can seem daunting if you are doing it alone. So, you are looking for someone to bring your modern kitchen design ideas into reality, you can get an interior designer from a reputable company to help you. Livspace is a wonderful choice for this.

Livspace will understand your lifestyle and curate a modern kitchen design perfect for you. It has many modular kitchen solutions that can be customised based on layouts, colours, finishes, accessories, and more.

Royal Rajput Paintings – Expressions of Power And Glory?

Soma Ghosh

March 7, 2022

Rajput-Paintings-Maharaja-Man-Singh-1 — Maharaja Man Singh 1 – Wikimedia

The word Rajput means ‘son of a king’. Rajputana refers to the ‘land of the Rajputs’. The Rajput clans made up of different groups (not called Rajputs then) had begun to settle in the areas of Rajputana from the 6th century A.D. Much of Rajputana of yore is in present day Rajasthan state, Haryana and Gujarat, Uttar Pradesh, Himachal Pradesh and Madhya Pradesh in the Indian Republic. They claimed to have descended from the Suryavamshi race (descent from the solar deity Surya), the Chandravamshi clan (descent from the lunar deity Chandra) and Agnivamshi clan (descent from the fire deity Agni). The term Rajput came to denote a social class, which was formed when different tribal and nomadic groups became land owning aristocrats, and became the ruling class. The Rajputs came to be associated with valour, bravery and physical strength, and the art which came from the region reflects these traits with an underlying sense of pomp and ceremony as well.

History of Rajput Painting

Rajput-Paintings-Dussehra-Sahba — Dussehra-Sahba – Wikimedia

The Rajasthani Schools of painting flourished between the end 16th and 19th centuries in the princely states, the rajwade and the thikanas, noble territories, in Rajputana India. The School evolved from wall paintings and Western Indian manuscript illustrations, though Mughal, European and Chinese influence became evident in the later years of its development.

The main schools of Rajasthani painting consist of four main schools that have sub-styles of the various princely states. Each princely state maintained their own atelier of artists, in spite of wars or changing political situations. The Mewar School contains the Chavand, Nathdwara, Deogadh, Udaipur and Sawar styles of painting; the Marwar School comprising the Kishangarh, Bikaner style of painting from Bikaner, Jodhpur, Nagaur, Pali and Ghanerao styles, the Hadoti School with the Kota, Bundi and Jhalawar styles and the Dhundar School of Amber, Jaipur, Shekhawati and Uniara styles of painting. The Rajput rulers and their life, Krishna Lila, Shiva and Parvati, the epics Ramayana and Mahabharata, the Bhagavata Purana, ballads and romances of yore, Ragamalas, seasons, landscape and animals are all in the repertoire of Rajasthani painting.

Themes in Rajput Painting

Rajput-Paintings The Battle of Haldighati by Chokha — The Battle of Haldighati by Chokha – Wikimedia

Rulers were often shown in their darbar or royal assembly, on horseback or in elephant processions with attendants, which showed their royal position. They were depicted hawking, hunting, sometimes playing polo as well. All these were royal pastimes. Rajasthani paintings were often politically charged and depict social values of the time. There have been paintings of the Haldighati battle between Maharana Pratap and the forces of Mughal Emperor Akbar. Some rulers had alliances with the Mughals, and helped them in their wars and were their vassals. However, the rulers wanted the paintings to portray their ambitions and establish their legacy. Therefore, paintings were often indicative of a ruler’s role and importance. The themes of the paintings were varied and interesting, showing the princes and rulers in different activities or purely as a portrait.

Let us check out some of these ‘royal’ and powerful depictions.

Rajput-Paintings-Royal-Portraits — Left – Kumbha of Mewar, Right – Raj Singh II

A portrait of Maharana Kumbha of Mewar (r. 1433CE – 1468 CE) with the halo of the sun painted around his head; also a crescent moon is a part of the painting from the collection of Royal Asiatic Society, London dated to the 16th/17th century.. He is holding his ceremonial sword, wears jewellery and is dressed in royal finery. A picture of a royal persona is evident. In the next painting from the collection of the Royal Asicatic Society, London, the Battle of Haldighati which was a historic battle of 1576 A.D, between Maharana Pratap of Mewar and Akbar’s forces led by Man Singh of Amber is depicted; the Rana lost the battle but escaped. The image from early 19th century by artist Chokha of the Deogarh School captures the fierceness of the combat.

Must-Try Hearty Dishes from Traditional food of Punjab

Monal Agarwal

March 2, 2022

Traditional-food-of-Punjab — Image – Shankar s./Flickr

Punjabi cuisine is heavily influenced by the ancient Indus Valley Civilization’s agriculture and farming lifestyle. The soil of the Indian Punjab, known as the ‘Granary of India’ or ‘India’s Bread-basket,’ is suitable for growing wheat. Rice and wheat are the two major crops grown by Punjabi farmers, and they are the key crops grown during the Kharif and Rabi seasons, respectively. Since time immemorial, the indigenous Punjab Basmati rice has been the pride of the province. Cattle are the primary source of dairy products in the region, ranging from ghee, butter, clarified butter, curd, paneer (cottage cheese), and a variety of delicious delicacies. As a result, staple goods farmed locally, such as dairy products, are an important element of the local diet. Let’s take a look at some of the traditional food of Punjab that express the true spirit of Punjabi culture.

Cooking Techniques and Tandoor

The people still use some of the old cooking facilities, like the Punjabi bhathi, which is akin to a masonry oven, in order to practise various traditional cooking styles. The Punjabi bhathi is made of bricks or mud and clay, and the top is covered with metal. Traditional Punjabi stoves and ovens are called Chulla and Bharolli, respectively, alternately band chulla and wadda chulla ovens are popular in Punjabi houses.

A traditional clay oven is frequently seen in the courtyards of Punjabi families, the Punjabi tandoor is a vital part of preparing numerous Punjabi food dishes. In the rural areas of Punjab, there is also a custom of holding community tandoors. Kath tandoors are the name given to these tandoors. A Punjabi tandoor is a bell-shaped oven that is either raised above or buried in the ground. The oven’s fire is made up of wood and charcoal. After the partition of India in 1947, which saw. The tandoor is used to make a variety of bread such as roti and naan, as well as delectable meat meals such as tandoori chicken, which is made by roasting chicken with spices and yoghourt.

Let’s have a look at 10 traditional Punjabi food that are commonly consumed for breakfast, main courses, snacks, and desserts.

Lassi

Punjabis are proud of their lassi, a drink that is well-known throughout the world. Despite its saltiness, the original lassi is sweet and served with a dab of milk and butter to make it as rich as possible. These days, flavours such as mango rose or strawberry are added to give it a twist while battling the summer heat. Almost all restaurants, even those that aren’t Punjabi, serve it, demonstrating the drink’s widespread popularity.

Sarso Ka Saag Makki di Roti

Sarso ka Saag and Makki di Roti are a match made in heaven, and are a staple in Punjabi households, especially during the winter months. Because mustard leaves are a little bitter, spinach can be added to make it healthier and tastier, and a dollop of the famed desi-ghee can be added for good measure as a wintery guilty pleasure! It’s a filling dinner that’s usually served with jaggery. During the winter, this feeds the body with all of the critical nutrients it requires.

Paratha

You’ve probably had a parantha at least once in your life, no matter where you are. This bread, whether plain or packed, is a regular in most Punjabi households. A paratha is almost always the most popular food to eat at a Dhaba, even when travelling. Punjabis enjoy theirs fried in desi ghee. It’s a humble marriage made in gourmet heaven when served with cold curd and pickle. Stuffings come in an unlimited variety of flavours. From potatoes, onions, cottage cheese to keema, anything else you can think of! The popularity of the dish is evidenced by the fact that the national capital has a ‘paranthe wali gali’ dedicated to serving up all possible versions.

Kadhi Pakora

The Punjabi kadhi affirms the richness of Punjab’s everyday food and people. In some aspects, the Punjabi kadhi differs from its Gujarati version. It has besan pakoras and is hot and sour, whereas the Gujarati version is sweeter, lighter in texture and white in colour. Pakoras are typically comprised of besan and onions.

Rajma Chawal

It’s a must-have in every north Indian household, as well as a source of nostalgia for many. It feels odd to eat rajma or chawal with anything other than each other, like breaking up your favourite couple. Despite the fact that it originates in Kashmir, it is a favourite among all Punjabis and their grandmothers. To add to the flavour, this Punjabi meal is usually served with a side of pickled onions. Some people add a pinch of crushed papad to their rajma chawal to give it a little extra crunch.

Chole-Kulcha

Traditional food of Punjab - Chole Kulche — Image- Wikimedia

Whether it’s Amritsari chole or Peshawari chole, they’re both excellent; the only difference is the origin. This chickpea dish is best served with paratha or naan and is a mainstay in Punjabi cuisine. You can also just eat spoonfuls of it plain, given how delicious it is. The only difference is that Peshwari is a little drier, whereas Amritsar has a bit of gravy. Kulcha is a wheat-based flatbread that is typically eaten with chole. The bread is prepared in a tandoor or on a griddle, then brushed with ghee and served while still warm. It’s chewy and soft, and it’s easy to make on a traditional Tawa, making it accessible to both commoners and royalty, which is why it’s so popular in North India.

Missi Roti

Missi roti is a Punjabi dish that is also popular in many other northern Indian states. This flatbread is frequently prepared at home. Chickpea flour or besan, when combined with onions, gives an incredible flavour to this cuisine. Missi Rotis are very common in Punjabi eateries. In restaurants, it’s frequently served with butter. To make flavoured missi roti onions. and methi or fenugreek leaves are added to the dish. Grated carrots, grated beets, and cabbage are among other ingredients that can be used to make missi roti. These flatbreads can be made plain as well. Missi roti is served with any type of dal.

Tandoori Chicken

Tandoori Chicken is a delectable dish made up of medium-sized chunks of chicken marinated in yoghurt and seasoned with tandoori masala and other seasonings. The chicken is skewered and grilled in a tandoor oven. The city of Amritsar offers some of the best Tandoori Chicken restaurants.

Amritsari Machhi

The dish is also known as Amritsari Machhi and is a popular appetiser in Amritsar. It’s created using gramme flour batter and accompanied with a delectable mint and coriander chutney. Carom seeds (ajwain), gramme flour (besan), and the usage of whole fish are the secret components that distinguish this dish.

Pinni

Pinni is a Punjabi dish that is typically served during the winter months. It’s cooked with desi ghee, wheat flour, jaggery, and almonds and served as a treat. Raisins can be used as well. Urad dal pinni is a pinni variation. Pinni is also a generic term for pastries or sweets that are shaped like a circle. Use khoya in the pinnis for extra taste. Pinnis do not need to be cooled and do not go bad for a long period. Pinnis are topped with crushed cardamom and served hot with tea or warm dairy.

Punjabi cuisine has a distinct flavour profile that is both strong and flavorful. Because of the rich blend of spices and diverse ingredients, it has very popular in India as well as abroad. Punjabi cuisine is the ultimate comfort food, making it one of India’s best cuisines.

Arunachal Pradesh Food – Unique Delicacies from the Land of Mountains

Eesani Dey

February 25, 2022

Arunachal-Pradesh-Food — Image – Arun Katiyar/Flickr

Food is an original and primary feature that piques the curiosity of people exploring a new place. Good food rich in authentic flavors and spice particular to a place gives an insight into the tradition and culture of the place. Northeast India is an area that generates interest because of its wonderful scenic beauty, culture, and unique delicacies.

Arunachal Pradesh is one of the sister states of Northeast India. Arunachal Pradesh is rich with natural wonders, generations of tradition, and flavourful foods. The state is home to many tribal communities. All the communities have their distinctive tastes, which come together to form the delicacies of Arunachal Pradesh.

In this article, we bring to you some of the unique Arunachal Pradesh food. To all the readers who like to explore cuisines, do read on. The state has to offer a lot of lip-smacking delicacies. Read on to find the dishes that suit your taste buds.

Bamboo Shoot

Bamboo shoot is one of the staple foods of Arunachal Pradesh and other North-Eastern states of India. The bamboo shoot’s taste is very delicate and is a part of many dishes. Bamboo shoot is a staple food and is a common accompaniment in vegetables, meat, and also in making pickles. The locals of Arunachal Pradesh marinate the bamboo shoots with different spices and store them for later use. The tingling and authentic taste of the food grows to become a favorite amongst tourists also. Many new visitors to the state become great fans of bamboo shoots. They often try to get their hands on packets of bamboo shoot pickles as a token of remembrance.

Chura Sabzi

Chura Sabzi is a traditional curry dish of Arunachal Pradesh. The key ingredients of this dish are fermented cheese and dashes of chili flakes. The fermented cheese is unique and authentic to the state, and Yak or cow’s milk make the cheese. Chura Sabzi with a steaming plate of rice is a popular combination. This dish leaves a trail of tingling sensation because of the zing of chilies. Chura Sabzi is a famous dish of Arunachal Pradesh, and for those who prefer spicy foods, do give this dish a try.

Ngatok

The North-Eastern states of India are famous for their non-vegetarian dishes. Meat and fish are part of the staple foods. Ngatok is a popular fish stew of Arunachal Pradesh. The flavors of the dish come from lemongrass, herbs, and other traditional spices. Ngatok is enjoyable both as an independent stew or a side dish. The primitive style of preparing this dish is also very unique. The fishes are wrapped in banana leaves and covered with charcoal. A hot stone is also a part of the cooking process. The aromatic smell of the spices and the charcoal is drool-worthy. One must try this dish for themselves to experience the rich delicacies Arunachal Pradesh has to offer.

Pasa

Pasa is another fish dish of the state. It is a soup made with fresh or raw fish. It is a hearty and very fulfilling dish that is in more demand during the winter season. Green chili, ginger, garlic, meat paste, khumpatt leaves, makat, and fish, make the soup rich in taste. A bowl of pasa will make your heart happy and your stomach full. Those of you who are a fan of fish items try this soup dish to get a new taste and take on fish dishes.

Pickles

Pickles are an indigenous side dish popular in India. Different states have distinctive styles and ingredients for making pickles, and Arunachal Pradesh also has its fair share of famous pickles, even among people of other forms of India.

Pehak

Pehak is a chutney made with fermented soya bean and king chili. It is an authentic local dish of Arunachal Pradesh that is very popular among all who try it. The fiery and tart taste of pehak goes very well with rice and Lukter, another traditional dish of the state. One must taste this dish for themselves, and if the taste suits you, you will be a happy customer in the local markets.

Pika Pila

Pika pila is a famous pickle popularly made by the Apatani tribe of Arunachal Pradesh. The main ingredients of this pickle are bamboo shoot and pork fat, along with the mandatory King chili. The taste is very hot, perfect for having it with rice or flatbreads.

Lukter

Lukter is a meat dish of Arunachal Pradesh. There are no fancy ingredients in the recipe of making this dish, and it is a straightforward dish made with cooked dry meat and Bhut Jolokia, the famous king chili flakes. The spicy and authentic taste of Lukter can be a side dish or enjoyed as is. The meat fans visiting the state must try this for themselves and enjoy the local style of dry meat.

Beverages

There are two trendy local beverages of Arunachal Pradesh. These drinks are-

Apong

Apong is a local rice beer and is a popular traditional drink among the locals of Arunachal Pradesh. This drink is homemade and is naturally devoid of any chemicals, and the locals enjoy it during special occasions.

Marua

Marua is also a traditional homemade drink of the state. For this drink, millet is the key ingredient instead of rice.

Both these drinks are part of the tradition of the state. Consumption of these drinks causes a light buzz. The natural quality of the drinks makes it a popular choice, and a glass or two of these will cause nothing to worry about.

These dishes of Arunachal Pradesh are rich in the traditional spice and herbs primitive to the state, and the locals enjoy it as their staple food. Visitors who are curious about the different delicacies of India must try out these local delicacies of Arunachal Pradesh. Most people fall in love with the authentic taste of the foods and crave more.

Dubai’s Top 5 Theme Parks You Must Visit

Cscope Staff

February 24, 2022

Dubai's-Top-5-Theme-Parks — Image – Jeremy Thompson/Flickr

Dubai is a well-known tourism destination that attracts visitors from all over the world. With its sand dunes, desert safaris, the Burj Khalifa, incredible gardens, and lovely beaches, Dubai never ceases to astound its visitors. Even a two-day getaway would rejuvenate you. What is even more pleasing is Dubai’s atmosphere, the perfect blend of luxury and quaintness for everyone.

Dubai’s theme parks are one of the city’s attractions. Dubai is well-known for its several amusement parks, each eliciting a distinct sensation of appeal. From Ferrari World, which has the world’s fastest roller coaster, to Legoland Water Park, which is targeted at youngsters aged 12 and above, each attraction has its own fervor. Rides shows, and live characters abound in theme parks, making you want to jump for joy. Also, if you’re planning a vacation to Dubai and adventure is on your bucket list, check out the Thrillophilia reviews on Twitter and plan a fantastic trip to Dubai with us.

Here are the top five best theme parks, all of which will certainly blow your mind.

1. IMG Worlds of Adventure

IMG-Worlds-of-Adventure-Dubai — Image – Jeremy Thompson/Flickr

Immerse yourself in one of Dubai’s largest themed entertainment parks. IMG Boulevard, Lost Valley, Cartoon Network, MARVEL, and Novo Cinemas are the five sections of the IMG worlds, each one promising to take you to another planet. Live studios, real-time characters (from Cartoon Network and Marvel), and some of the tense rides will provide you with plenty of memories that will last a lifetime. This place is suitable for all ages, and both children and adults will have a wonderful time there. Apart from some of these, the park also offers eating options and a separate movie theater where you can relax with your loved ones.

2. Motiongate

Motiongate is a Hollywood-themed theme park that attracts visitors worldwide to experience its five distinct themed zones and immerse themselves in a different universe. Try the Hunger Games-themed roller coaster or the Capitol Bullet Train, which defies gravity. Kung Fu Panda: The Unstoppable Greatness is a good choice for those looking for something unusual. There are also spots where you may truly soar with the Dragons or have a frolicking experience with the Zoosters. After you’ve finished your travels, you may gorge yourself on delectable fare served at the arena’s eateries, which are usually included in Motiongate tickets purchased online.

3. Warner Bros. World

As soon as you enter the Warner Bros. You will be taken to an unique universe when you play World. Get awestruck by the six regions, each of which is designed on another superhero or comic figure to give you a true sense of immersion. In the Warner Bros. universe, you’ll find dazzling performances, thrilling rides, and a real-time studio vibe. Warner Bros World, located on Yas Island, exemplifies the entertainment industry by living true to its name. Check out the Thrillophilia reviews that can help you plan a holiday with your friends and family to enjoy the themed ambiance while having a fantastic time.

4. Ferrari World Theme Park

This park is recognised for having the world’s fastest roller coaster, the Formula Rossa, which crosses 2.2 kilometers of track in a record-breaking 49 seconds. The ride guarantees an adrenaline-pumping experience unlike any other thanks to its hydraulic architecture. There are even additional car-themed rides that are entertaining and suited for people of all ages. It is located on Yas Island which is only a 10-minute ride from Abu Dhabi International Airport. The premium park features a lavish atmosphere that includes entertainment and eating, providing visitors with a well-rounded experience. So check out Facebook Thrillophilia reviews and start preparing to visit this wonderful theme park soon.

5. Legoland Water Park

Legoland-Dubai — Image – Jeremy Thompson/Flickr

Legoland Water Park is another aqua park for children aged two to twelve. The park has over 40 interactive rides and shows, as well as 15000 Lego model constructions that are a visual feast. Children may also use lego bricks to create their own raft that allows them to express their creativity. Legoland is separated into six themed zones, each with its own specialties: Lego City, Mini-land, Adventure Kingdoms, Imagination and Factory. Legoland Water Park will be a hit with your kids if they are Lego aficionados.

Book Review – ‘Vignettes Relating to Kathakali and Shakespeare: The Thirasheela Versus the Curtain’

Cscope Staff

February 23, 2022

I am very happy to review this book which is a unique blend of Kathakali and Shakespeare.

The book starts with the origins (this is a brief section as the purpose of the book is not to give a history of the dance form) and then moves on to analyse the importance of the training imparted to the actors, singers, and percussionists. It indicates how the people trained in the various disciplines (especially the actors) have to build on the basics given to them during the eight years plus of extremely physically and mentally tough training and bring in their own interpretations to flesh out the characters. This is backed up with examples on how this is done by different actors. The book moves on to compare the acting of two great actors in Kathakali and Shakespearean drama, and how they interpreted characters – that is, the similarities. These are Kalamandalam Krishnan Nair and Sir Laurence Olivier. The authors chose these because they are for them the avatars in their chosen professions. They have gone into detail about how these two actors conceptualized characters – Sir Laurence as Shylock and Krishnan Nair as Nalan are just two examples.

The book also looks at the difficulties a Kathakali actor has to undergo in depicting complex and nuanced characters and interpreting them in a sophisticated manner exactly as a Shakespearean actor has to do. The way actors ‘get into character’ in the two genres is also explored, along with similarities in the characters such as King Lear and Dakshan (both unfortunately linked by filial devotion). Another pair is Hamlet and Nalan – bound by mind forged manacles or self-imposed restraints. The book also goes into detail on the fusion experiments being made between Shakespearean plays and Kathakali and shows that these are not in line with the traditions of either genre.

The authors cover the new experiments – for example in Kathakali singing – which they say are sometimes also not in line with the classicism of the dance drama and conclude by looking at the way forward. The USP of the book is the comparisons with Elizabethan drama and identifying the ideal type of theatre (perhaps akin to the Globe Theatre) in which Kathakali should be performed. The importance of the singing and the rhythm in Kathakali are also a part of the book.

By the term ‘performing arts,’ the authors mean any form of dance drama or theater and so the readership of the book will be wide as it will also be of interest to actors and the general readers in the west and the east. It has specifically addressed the fusion of Opera and Shakespeare and the experiments now being done through the medium of Kathakali of converting Shakespeare plays into the former genre. Both these aspects will be of interest to the reader in the west who will be able to approach Kathakali through more familiar routes; Shakespeare is after all meant for all times. So, the book will be an engaging read for all aficionados of Shakespeare and Kathakali.

There are people who are fond of Kathakali (in India and outside) but find it difficult to understand or come across a book which will cater to their expectations. This book will therefore be of interest to all people keen on developing their understanding of the performing arts, and secondly to the person who is being trained to come into the field of Kathakali as a professional, and thirdly anyone who is a keen follower of the dance drama and the performing arts.

The book, in short, is the only one existing to address both Kathakali and Shakespeare simultaneously and bring out comparable points of reference. The western reader interested in Shakespeare will gain a new perspective on the playwright by seeing his work set against a classical Indian dance form, while those interested in Kathakali will gain a new perspective on the actors’ portrayal of the character by seeing how Shakespearean actors set about the same task.

I would like to see another publication which again picks up on the complex but fascinating theme of this book which is a love song for Shakespeare and Kathakali.

Author Profile:

Dr. Mohan Gopinath holds a Master’s degree in English from St. Stephen’s College, Delhi University and has worked as a banker with HSBC, consultant, researcher and teacher. He takes a keen interest in the performing arts. He has written and published papers and case studies across a range of subjects such as leadership, management of change, conflict resolution, banking, protection of the environment and the performing arts. His published books include Business Drama: How Shakespearean Insights Help Leaders Manage Volatile Contexts and The Actor Who Could Connect: the Genius of Kalamandalam Krishnan Nair. He is also a keen tennis enthusiast.

Nirmala Kutty
Aficionado of the Performing Arts
Palakkad, Kerala
February 2022

With black and white images, Bibliography and Index
ISBN no – 978-1-5275-7777-0
Principal Author – Dr. Mohan Gopinath with Vellinezhi Achuthan Kutty, Nagesh Bharadwaj and Asha Prabhakaran
Chief Editor – Dr. Sabina Zacharias
Published by Cambridge Scholars Publishing, Newcastle on Tyne, U.K. 2022
https://www.cambridgescholars.com/product/978-1-5275-7777-0
(Hardcover with illustrations. Pages 235, Price GBP 61.99, USD 99.95. Price in India to be announced shortly)

IIAD Students & Faculty Digitize The National Museum

Cscope Staff

February 23, 2022

The days of walking into a museum and seeing aisles and rows of antiquities on exhibit are long gone. With the progress of digital and technological technology, it is now possible to obtain information about artefacts digitally and to make inventive use of sensory organs to learn more about displays.

Seven students from the Indian Institute of Art and Design’s Communication Design department in New Delhi breathed new life into the exhibitions at the city’s National Museum with a series of technical adjustments.

Students Nikhil Shankar, Risaal Shaan Sabbir, Shreya Bhardwaj, Aishwarya Shyam Kumar, Janvi Khera, Sreeram Jayaram, and Deepak Gupta worked with faculty members Shaaz Ahmed, associate professor, and Inderjit Singh Jassel, lecturer, Software Technology, IIAD, to form the team. Himanshu Sabarwal from Tricolor India Private Limited outsourced the job to the team.

Virtual reality, augmented reality, projection mapping, and other digital interventions are being used by museums to create interactive and immersive digital facilities that go beyond traditional displays.

One will be surrounded by five giant monitors as they enter the main structure, two of which are interactive touch screens. Multiple artefacts are presented on these touch displays, and when one is picked, the artefact’s details are revealed. The projections on the remaining three screens were created by the students.

Many relics now have transparent OLED panels on which text and graphics are shown to impart information. In addition, there is a 270-degree projection theatre in the passage leading to the inner circle of galleries that shows the Ramayana in an animated manner. The projection is accompanied by a narration by Kabir Bedi, a well-known actor.

On the first level, the Company Painting room has also received considerable revisions. At the entrance to the Company Painting Gallery, a map depicts the numerous halls. Additionally, two paintings of the East India Company have been turned into projections by students and staff members. Finally, as one walks out of the Company Paintings area, they would come across a photo booth where they may have their picture taken in the style of an East India Company Painting.

The Central Asian Artifact gallery, which is located on the second floor, has also seen numerous changes. At the opening is a hologram showcasing five artefacts from various locations of the silk route. A multi-touch screen displays an interactive map of Central Asia in the Central Asian gallery. The CAA room now has two projections that depict historical Central Asian paintings.

IIAD-Students-&-Faculty-Digitize-The-National-Museum — IIAD Students & Faculty

In addition to the main building, the students worked in the Buddha Gallery. Until 2018, this structure housed the headquarters of the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI). Two touch screen tables, a digital flipbook, a slidable touch screen on Buddha’s life and teachings, and a digital interactive pond built by IIAD students may be found in the gallery.

The National Museum has undergone a major renovation seven decades after its foundation. Although many of the galleries have yet to open to the public, those that have already done so have received a warm welcome. You will be astounded by the work done by IIAD students on your next visit to the National Museum.

The National Museum’s initiative intends to effect change by creating digital exhibits, displays, and information dissemination systems that engage and attract visitors.

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