Simple ways to save paper

Simple ways to save paper

Saving the environment doesn't have to be a herculean task that is left to big organizations. We can all do our bit to help out. Here's how...
1. Most of us use debit/credit cards while shopping, but how many of us actually need the printed receipt, given that banks instantly send a SMS after each transaction? The next time you swipe your card, ask the vendor to print only one (merchant) copy of the receipt.
2. The same rule applies when drawing money from an ATM. All ATM machines ask users if they want a print of the transaction. Opt to go paperless and just check your phone the next time you want to know how much balance you have left.
3. Print something only if you really need to. These days, you can flash your e-ticket on your mobile phone at the airport and railway station. Also, use the blank side of a printed paper to jot down any notes that you might have.
4. When you do need to print, you can save a lot of paper by simply changing the margin settings. Change the margin from the standard 1.25 setting to .75 on every document you print.
5. Don't throw away the envelope the next time you get a letter or bill. Pile them up next to your landline or computer to jot down phone numbers or notes.
6. Feed your grocery or to-do list on your mobile phone instead of scribbling it on a piece of paper. Since your phone is with you at all times, you will have your list handy whenever you need it.
7. Instead of going out and buying a book, gather used paper (paper that has been printed/written on one side) or pamphlets to make a booklet. You could make it look funky by choosing a colourful cover.
8. Get creative and cut pages of magazines into different shapes to make a unique piece of art. You could cut them up like leaves and paste them on a used sheet of paper or chartpaper to make it look like a tree.
9. Use old newspaper as gift wrapping paper. This gives your gift a funky look and makes it stand out.
10. Use cloth napkins instead of tissue paper at home. Cloth absorbs liquid better and does a neater job of cleaning up the mess. Moreover, it can always be washed and reused.

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Author hosts contest on premarital sex online

One of the most debated topics in the country is premarital sex. Is it okay to indulge in sex before marriage? Is it against a person's moral values and culture? Or is just a form of expressing your love? Author Poonaam Uppal's romance novel, A Passionaate Gospel of True Love, decodes the occult love secrets for modern India and also deals with the related controversies. In fact, her book had created a buzz online and the blogging community was debating the ethos of premarital sex.

Interestingly, a contest was organised on Poonaam's social networking page to find out what people had to say on the topic of premarital sex. And it was found that the winner of the contest had a clear 'no' for an answer.

Ankita Bandooni, who won the contest, says, "God designed sex to be something beautiful that consummates a marriage. Sex unites a man and a woman and creates a 'soul tie' of sorts. It enhances the emotion of oneness and makes you feel truly connected with your better half."
It's time we had an open debate on the tabboo associated with premarital sex. What's your take on it? Log on to Poonaam's Facebook page and win your chance to voice your opinion.

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Here's how to serve wine to your guests

The trend of gifting wine bottles or serving wine at dos and get-togethers seems to be finally catching up. But how do you know which wine to serve? And how to serve it? Shamita Singha, a sommelier, shares some tips.

Shamita had her first sip of French red wine when she was 18, and she fell in love with it. "I have a past life connection with wine," she confesses. Ever since, she has been researching on wine, while modeling along side. She even did a course in wine tasting in London.
n Drink it at the right temperature: For champagne or sparkling wine, the right temperature is 6o. Serve white wine at 10-12o so that it doesn't taste flabby. In India, red wine should be cooled down 10-14o.

Drink it in the right glass: A sparkling wine has to be drunk in a flute glass, so it preserves the bubbles. White wine, on the other hand, can be enjoyed in a smaller bowled glass. However, red wine must be had in a bigger bowled glass so it has more surface area to breathe when you pour it in.

Wine can be had on its own or with food: While there are lots of combinations that can complement wine, you have to let your palette be the guide. If you enjoy your glass with a certain starter, that's your pairing. But the thumb rule is that the flavours of the food not overshadow that of the wine.

Once open, finish it: That's very important, because if you keep it overnight, it loses its freshness and flavour, much like a packet of chips.

Store your bottles right: If the bottle is sealed with a cork, store it horizontally, because the wine needs to touch it for the bottle cork to stay moist. If the cork turns dry, it will start crumbling and spoil your wine. Wine bottles with screw caps can be stored vertically.
The bottles also need to be stored in controlled temperatures, in special wine fridges. The regular refrigerators are much too cold for the bottle. Wine keeps maturing, so if it is exposed to extreme temperatures, it dies.

Hold your glass right: The glass should always be held by the stem or the base. If you hold it from the body, you are passing the heat to the wine.

Sniff to see if it's fresh: When at a restaurant, after they pour you a little taste, hold the glass by the stem, swirl it a bit and smell it. Then take a small sip. If it smells fresh and tastes fine, give it thumbs up. But if it smells bad, and tastes sour, like vinegar, reject the bottle.

When having wine at a party: As a host, you should always taste the wine first to make sure it is fresh. For responsible drinking, don't have more than two or three glasses. If you eating, you can go up to four glasses.

Gifting wine depends on budget: If you have good budget, go in for an imported wine bottle, but buy it from a store that has stored right. If you have a smaller budget, invest in a good Indian wine. Find which wine the person likes.

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Heard of the eyebrow mascara?

Why is it used?
If you've been in love with supermodel Delevingne's thick eyebrows, the eyebrow mascara is your best bet. They not only control unruly eyebrows but also make them look attractive.

Clear or tinted?
Eyebrow mascaras are two types - clear and tinted. Clear ones are good for those who have naturally lush eyebrows while tinted ones work better for women who want to enhance their light brows.

How to use it?
First cleanse and tone your face and go onto applying your regular makeup like a foundation or a BB cream. Then use the wand to apply the mascara directly on to the brows combing in an upward motion. Fill the empty spaces but don't overdo as you don't want to make it look unnatural.

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What's your all-time favourite British Classic?

The Milan Mela ground is bedecked with hundreds of book stalls offering everything from educational to fiction titles, signalling the beginning of the 39th International Kolkata Bo ok Fair. And Great Britain is the focal theme this year. In keeping with this theme, TOI spoke to a few city students about their favourite British classics of all time. Here are the top picks.

THREE MEN IN A BOAT
The book that's etched in my memory is Three Men in a Boat by Jerome K Jerome. It is a refreshingly hilarious account of three friends who embark on a river trip in an open boat.The stupidity or carelessness of the friends that constantly lands them in awkward situations makes for a very enjoyable read. The book provides a humorous insight into human nature, which is delightful for all ages. It teaches us that, at the end of the day, we can always take a break from the drudgery of everyday life in the lap of nature. - SANA AHMED, Department of physics Rajabazar Science College, CU

PRIDE AND PREJUDICE
Vanity and pride are different things, though the words are often used synonymously. A person may be proud without being vain. Pride relates more to our opinion of ourselves and vanity, to what we would have others think of us.I remember quoting these words quite a lot of time while growing up. I think my childhood would remain pretty incomplete without mentioning her. I loved how she created such strong, unusual female protagonists and played with satire in her texts. Pride and Prejudice, Emma, Sense and Sensibility are a few books that I have read over and over again. I loved how she gave significant importance to reason in a period that saw economic revolt, political unrest and change. She highlighted social differences, which was very much present at that time in a realistic fashion. I get a whole new perspective every time I read her novels. - RITWIKA CHOWDHURY, Third year, sociology Presidency University

WUTHERING HEIGHTS
I was bred on books and a wide range of classics, from Austen to Flaubert and Dostoevsky to Douglas Adams, were staples in my literary diet.

Yet, there is always that one book you never grow out of -the one that, in your mind, is beyond criticism or comparison. For me that book is Emily Bronte's Wuthering Heights. It was a gift from my mother on my 13th birthday and I can honestly say that among all books I have read before and since, it remains unmatched in its passionate abandon and raw portrayal of love. At 25, my romance with this heart-wrenching classic continues! I still go back to it after a tough day. I still root for Heathcliff. And I still end up in tears every time. But isn't that exactly what a classic is? Beyond the limits of age, time and space? - ADHARSHILA CHATTERJEE MPhil scholar, English University of Calcutta

SHERLOCK HOLMES
When it comes to British classics, I cannot look any farther than Sherlock Holmes by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle. There has never been and never will be a thriller bigger than this.The grit, the detailing, the skilful writing and the carefully carved out characters -what's not to love about Sherlock Holmes?
It's an unputdownable series and I've lived each and every case of Holmes through Doyle's masterly depiction. I also owe a lot of my observation powers to Doyle! So many years later, it's still my go-to book on any given day. Sherlock Holmes is a masterpiece and among many in the series, A Scandal in Bohemia remains my favourite. - UPAHAR BISWAS Department of multimedia, St Xavier's College

MACBETH
The war between the angelic and beastly qualities within a person is the first thing that comes to mind whenever I read Macbeth by William Shakespeare. It has taught me how much a person's choice of his inner qualities can bring out a whole new perspective of his life. Filled with such strong thematic elements such as murder, mystery, politics, bloodshed and the supernatural, it definitely gives us a wide and clear picture of the Elizabethan era. Such epic characters and intense drama make it a truly wonderful read. - CHANDRIKA BANERJEE English honours, Syamaprasad College

CHARLIE AND THE CHOCOLATE FACTORY
Charlie and the Chocolate Factory has been my favourite since childhood. As a kid and even now, being a chocolate lover, that was the sole reason that I had picked up the book. But the reason I love the book is Willy Wonka. I love how brilliantly Roald Dahl depicted Wonka's character, making us realize through him, how we all should have a bit of Charlie in ourselves. - LAHARI GOSWAMI Computer science and engineering, BP Poddar Institute of Management and Technology

HARRY POTTER
JK Rowling's Harry Potter means childhood to me. I didn't grow up in a English speaking household nor did I go to an English medium school. My father read and translated the first five books to me, page by page. The books captured the British lifestyle so beautifully, while creating a world that means home to ders. A place to get lost in when the world millions of readers. A place to get lost in when the world seems too much. It gave messages of fearless acceptance of the self, equality, and what it meant to be a true friend. The plot flows seamlessly, as every single little thing is explained in the course of the seven books. It's a classic not only because the impact it has had on the millions of readers but also because it remains a good read whether you are 10 or 70. My grandmother read the entire series in her 80s and she's an avid fan. Harry Potter is a phenomenon that goes beyond paper, but it is on paper where it started and it's the books that remain at the heart of the magical world. - UNMESH UTTARAA DUBLAY Film studies, Jadavpur University

THE HITCHHIKER'S GUIDE TO THE GALAXY
My favourite is The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy by Douglas Adams.

It was the first thing I read after a reading drought of about a half a year, and it charmed me to no end. I love Adams' humour -especially how parts of the book are simultaneously hilarious and profound despite the nonsensical world it is set in.The series is nothing short of brilliant, and I often go back to it despite having piles of books I have yet to read. - GODHULY BOSE Department of English Jadavpur University

DEATH ON THE NILE
Agatha Christie would have to be my favourite British author. Of all the characters she has created, my fondest memories are reserved for Mr Hercule Poirot. His ingenious methods of solving complicated crimes were so inspiring that I secretly wished I could be like him when I grew up! My favourite Christie book is Death on the Nile, which is an excellent example of how Poirot brilliantly uses his "little grey cells" to expose the conspirers behind Linnet Ridgeway's death. The characters are well nuanced and each come with their respective secrets from the past. The plot, which might seem a bit too complex at times is resolved exquisitely by Poirot and wraps up the narrative, which has quite a few distractions and had kept me guessing till the very end. Apart from Death on the Nile, my other favourite Poirot books are Murder on the Orient Express and The Murder of Roger Ackroyd. Agatha Christie shaped my sentiments for thrillers and mystery novels and I don't hesitate to go back to them every once in a while. - DEBROOP BASU Department of English, St Xavier's College

ANIMAL FARM
My grandfather introduced me to George Orwell at a very young age and I re-read Orwell's Animal Farm after I became a student of social sciences. It is unbelievable how he described the socio-political situation of the post-war world, which still remains a literary masterpiece as a socio-political satire. This book, published in 1945-46, remains a rare specimen of the contemporary political situation as well, presented in a very lucid language. Orwell is undoubtedly my favourite British author, Animal Farm being the book in which I keep my favourite bookmark. - ANIRUDDHA GHOSE Film Studies, Jadavpur University

COMPILED BY SHREYANKA MAZUMDAR

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How to maintain a perfect beard

Follow this grooming guide to help you get a great beard.

Things you'll need: an electric trimmer, a fine-toothed comb, a shaving oil, and a pair of scissors.

Type of beard
First, you need to choose a bead that will suit your face and personality. For example, if you have a square face, you should go for a style that makes your face appear slimmer and less square. Opt for a light beard. If your face is round, the length of the hair on your chin should be longer than the sides and the sides should be short. If you have a pointed chin, a bigger, fuller beard will look great.

How to style it
To keep your beard clean and free of knots, use a fine-toothed comb. Just like you shampoo and conditioner on your hair, use these on your bear too, to keep it soft. You can also use a shaving oil; this will allow you to see what you are shaving and also prevent itchiness. Don't forget to trim your beard.

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Restaurant Review: 24/7 Coffee Shop at Metropole Hotel

24/7, the all-day dining restaurant and coffee shop of Metropole Hotel is chic and cool at the same time.
DECOR

Located off the lobby of the Metropole, 24 X 7 has a casual coffee shop decor and atmosphere. The restaurant is brightened up by posters and wall paper. Though not very large, this coffee shop that seats 56 has made judicious use of space so it does not feel cramped. There is a buffet area along one of the walls and one corner holds the pastry counter.

FOOD

This restaurant has a good range of North Indian dishes, though it also has a selection of western, Chinese, Thai and South Indian. The house special starter is Chicken Lime Garlic, which is a blend of flavours, and from time to time they also offer the chef's specials like the Rava Fried Basa Fish which has successfully made the soft and mild tasting basa fish into a crispy and flavourful snack or the Mysore Cabbage Tikki which is also quite nice. The Murg Kasturi Kabab, Murg Seek Gilafi, Hariyali Paneer Tikka, Hariyali Seek Kebab and Aloo ki Nazakat (stuffed aloo) are also pretty good here. Those who like okra, may enjoy the Bhindi Karari. The Chinesestyle soups are also quite good. Being largely a coffee shop, their Chicken or Paneer Kathi Roll is one of their popular orders.

For the mains, their specials are the Crispy Plum Glazed Chicken, Murg Kalamari, Fish in Green Masala and Bhuna Mushroom Paneer Babycorn.You can also ask for fusion specials of the chef - the Chicken Curriana which can be ordered off the menu comprises of chicken in a mild curry sauce with herbs and seasoning neatly plated with crunchy and well-presented sauteed vegetables, buttered rice, garlic bread and mashed potatoes on the side, a good one dish meal.

They also have combo meals which are quite a filling solution if you have missed lunch or dinner, mainly popular dishes like Butter Chicken or Paneer Peshwari with Indian breads. If you are looking for comfort foods they also offer dishes like Dal Khichdi.

Among desserts, they offer Indian sweets like seasonal halwas and Gulab Jamun.

PLUS AND MINUS

247 is a good place to drop in for a quick and casual combo meal, a one dish meal or just starters, with teas or coffees.

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Acne : ask the expert

Pooja Makhija Consulting nutritionist and Clinical dietitian
Dear Pooja, I am in school and have developed a lot of acne -pimples of all sizes. They are in my face and forehead and nose. Of late, I noticed very visible blackheads too... I am too young for facials etc says my mother. What should I do? It is tough to stay away from fried foods. And I love sweets and burgers etc. Will stopping to eat these foods make a difference to my skin? Are there any food items that can help acne prone skin? Please help. -Amolika Aggarwala

As I always say `You are what you eat' thus if you want radiant skin you have to change what and how much you put into your tummy. Face creams, soaps, treatments works only on the superficial skin -which is constantly replaced with by fresh younger skin and this skin is a product of a steady supply of micronutrients that is essential to support this rapid growth.

You get pimples when the pores in your skin get blocked. Your pores get blocked when the sebaceous or oil glands get inflamed. Foods with high sugar content or fried foods have been clearly shown by several studies that they increase this inflammation thus causing blocked pores, pimples, blackheads and pig mentation. Learn to eat fresher, home cooked meals on a daily basis. You must include at least two to three servings of fruit daily, three-four servings of vegetables that you can include as salads, soups, veggie juice or stuffed in roti or mixed up in your rice as pulao. Water intake is another important ingredi ent for good skin. Drink at least 8-10 glasses daily so that your kidney washes out all the tox ins and skin doesn't have to bear any burnt for the same.

Adequate sleep is also anoth er essential for skin that glows and shines. And I repeat every 35 days your skin replaces itself and your body makes these new cells from the food you eat. What you eat literally becomes you. You have a choice in what you're made of. Eat wisely.

Please email your queries to bombaytimes3@gmail.com

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What's your all-time favourite British Classic?

The Milan Mela ground is bedecked with hundreds of book stalls offering everything from educational to fiction titles, signalling the beginning of the 39th International Kolkata Bo ok Fair. And Great Britain is the focal theme this year. In keeping with this theme, TOI spoke to a few city students about their favourite British classics of all time. Here are the top picks.

THREE MEN IN A BOAT
The book that's etched in my memory is Three Men in a Boat by Jerome K Jerome. It is a refreshingly hilarious account of three friends who embark on a river trip in an open boat.The stupidity or carelessness of the friends that constantly lands them in awkward situations makes for a very enjoyable read. The book provides a humorous insight into human nature, which is delightful for all ages. It teaches us that, at the end of the day, we can always take a break from the drudgery of everyday life in the lap of nature. - SANA AHMED, Department of physics Rajabazar Science College, CU

PRIDE AND PREJUDICE
Vanity and pride are different things, though the words are often used synonymously. A person may be proud without being vain. Pride relates more to our opinion of ourselves and vanity, to what we would have others think of us.I remember quoting these words quite a lot of time while growing up. I think my childhood would remain pretty incomplete without mentioning her. I loved how she created such strong, unusual female protagonists and played with satire in her texts. Pride and Prejudice, Emma, Sense and Sensibility are a few books that I have read over and over again. I loved how she gave significant importance to reason in a period that saw economic revolt, political unrest and change. She highlighted social differences, which was very much present at that time in a realistic fashion. I get a whole new perspective every time I read her novels. - RITWIKA CHOWDHURY, Third year, sociology Presidency University

WUTHERING HEIGHTS
I was bred on books and a wide range of classics, from Austen to Flaubert and Dostoevsky to Douglas Adams, were staples in my literary diet.

Yet, there is always that one book you never grow out of -the one that, in your mind, is beyond criticism or comparison. For me that book is Emily Bronte's Wuthering Heights. It was a gift from my mother on my 13th birthday and I can honestly say that among all books I have read before and since, it remains unmatched in its passionate abandon and raw portrayal of love. At 25, my romance with this heart-wrenching classic continues! I still go back to it after a tough day. I still root for Heathcliff. And I still end up in tears every time. But isn't that exactly what a classic is? Beyond the limits of age, time and space? - ADHARSHILA CHATTERJEE MPhil scholar, English University of Calcutta

SHERLOCK HOLMES
When it comes to British classics, I cannot look any farther than Sherlock Holmes by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle. There has never been and never will be a thriller bigger than this.The grit, the detailing, the skilful writing and the carefully carved out characters -what's not to love about Sherlock Holmes?
It's an unputdownable series and I've lived each and every case of Holmes through Doyle's masterly depiction. I also owe a lot of my observation powers to Doyle! So many years later, it's still my go-to book on any given day. Sherlock Holmes is a masterpiece and among many in the series, A Scandal in Bohemia remains my favourite. - UPAHAR BISWAS Department of multimedia, St Xavier's College

MACBETH
The war between the angelic and beastly qualities within a person is the first thing that comes to mind whenever I read Macbeth by William Shakespeare. It has taught me how much a person's choice of his inner qualities can bring out a whole new perspective of his life. Filled with such strong thematic elements such as murder, mystery, politics, bloodshed and the supernatural, it definitely gives us a wide and clear picture of the Elizabethan era. Such epic characters and intense drama make it a truly wonderful read. - CHANDRIKA BANERJEE English honours, Syamaprasad College

CHARLIE AND THE CHOCOLATE FACTORY
Charlie and the Chocolate Factory has been my favourite since childhood. As a kid and even now, being a chocolate lover, that was the sole reason that I had picked up the book. But the reason I love the book is Willy Wonka. I love how brilliantly Roald Dahl depicted Wonka's character, making us realize through him, how we all should have a bit of Charlie in ourselves. - LAHARI GOSWAMI Computer science and engineering, BP Poddar Institute of Management and Technology

HARRY POTTER
JK Rowling's Harry Potter means childhood to me. I didn't grow up in a English speaking household nor did I go to an English medium school. My father read and translated the first five books to me, page by page. The books captured the British lifestyle so beautifully, while creating a world that means home to ders. A place to get lost in when the world millions of readers. A place to get lost in when the world seems too much. It gave messages of fearless acceptance of the self, equality, and what it meant to be a true friend. The plot flows seamlessly, as every single little thing is explained in the course of the seven books. It's a classic not only because the impact it has had on the millions of readers but also because it remains a good read whether you are 10 or 70. My grandmother read the entire series in her 80s and she's an avid fan. Harry Potter is a phenomenon that goes beyond paper, but it is on paper where it started and it's the books that remain at the heart of the magical world. - UNMESH UTTARAA DUBLAY Film studies, Jadavpur University

THE HITCHHIKER'S GUIDE TO THE GALAXY
My favourite is The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy by Douglas Adams.

It was the first thing I read after a reading drought of about a half a year, and it charmed me to no end. I love Adams' humour -especially how parts of the book are simultaneously hilarious and profound despite the nonsensical world it is set in.The series is nothing short of brilliant, and I often go back to it despite having piles of books I have yet to read. - GODHULY BOSE Department of English Jadavpur University

DEATH ON THE NILE
Agatha Christie would have to be my favourite British author. Of all the characters she has created, my fondest memories are reserved for Mr Hercule Poirot. His ingenious methods of solving complicated crimes were so inspiring that I secretly wished I could be like him when I grew up! My favourite Christie book is Death on the Nile, which is an excellent example of how Poirot brilliantly uses his "little grey cells" to expose the conspirers behind Linnet Ridgeway's death. The characters are well nuanced and each come with their respective secrets from the past. The plot, which might seem a bit too complex at times is resolved exquisitely by Poirot and wraps up the narrative, which has quite a few distractions and had kept me guessing till the very end. Apart from Death on the Nile, my other favourite Poirot books are Murder on the Orient Express and The Murder of Roger Ackroyd. Agatha Christie shaped my sentiments for thrillers and mystery novels and I don't hesitate to go back to them every once in a while. - DEBROOP BASU Department of English, St Xavier's College

ANIMAL FARM
My grandfather introduced me to George Orwell at a very young age and I re-read Orwell's Animal Farm after I became a student of social sciences. It is unbelievable how he described the socio-political situation of the post-war world, which still remains a literary masterpiece as a socio-political satire. This book, published in 1945-46, remains a rare specimen of the contemporary political situation as well, presented in a very lucid language. Orwell is undoubtedly my favourite British author, Animal Farm being the book in which I keep my favourite bookmark. - ANIRUDDHA GHOSE Film Studies, Jadavpur University

COMPILED BY SHREYANKA MAZUMDAR

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Keep your old woollens new with ease

If not cared for well, woollen clothes can shrink, fade and look old in no time. But if they get proper attention, they can look as new as ever for the duration of their life.

The Woolmark Company has offered some tips that can be used to maintain the fluffiness, colour and shape of your favourite woollen garments, said a statement.

Read care labels: Firstly always read the care claim label which is usually sewn into the side seam, inside the garment. This will help you understand your wool care, such as whether your wool item is safe for machine wash or hand wash only.

Washing Methods: Sweaters carrying the Woolmark Machine Washable label can be safely machine washed. When choosing an appliance, look for the Woolmark Blue or Woolmark Green certification. If using the hand wash technique ensure that the woollen garments are washed in clean, lukewarm water, approximately 30°C, using a mild and gentle detergent. Allow to soak for a period of 10 minutes before rinsing thoroughly firstly in lukewarm water, then finally in cold water.

Care Tips: Irrespective of the laundering method, it is recommended that wool garments are turned inside out prior to laundering; this will prolong the 'as new' surface appearance of the garment.

Ironing: For ironing, use a low heat and ensure your woollens are still slightly damp.

Resume the shape: After wearing wool, it's best to leave it to rest for 24 hours before hanging it or folding it away so it can recover and resume its proper shape. Woven clothes, like coats, should be hung up on padded hangers. Knitted wool jumpers and cardigans should be folded away. For a quick refresh, hang your wool in the bathroom while you shower, the humidity will de-wrinkle your fabric. Or you could just use the steam programme to revitalise and de-wrinkle your wool.

Wool storage: Always clean garments before storing and protect your woollens from moths with lavender bags or cedar balls.

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Jaipur Litfest: Going from strength to strength

Why does society have a biased view about writers dealing with sex or about sexual dualities, what would end if we stop believing in our past and why freedom of expression comes at a cost were among the questions that were thrown open for debate and introspection at the Jaipur Literature Festival 2015.

The annual literary fest, which has attained the stature of a "literary pilgrimage" for the bibliophile, was held as usual at the 17th century Diggi Palace. It hosted 234 speakers from all around the globe who initiated stimulating discussions on varied themes ranging from history, politics, cinema, art, travel and poetry across 170 sessions on its five days ending Sunday.

As the festival, now in its eighth edition, has grown from strength to strength since its inception 2006, when it began on a small scale as part of the Jaipur Heritage International Festival, the organisers tried to include dynamic topics in several sessions that could lead to engaging and illuminating conversations.

This year was no different with Pulitzer Prize-winning poet Vijay Seshadri at the very onset raising strong concerns about the freedom of literary imagination. "The issue of the poetic imagination, of its scope and freedom, has become doubly fearsome, and has become problematic because of the way Indian society is developing," he said in his keynote address on the opening day.

Similarly lyricist Prasoon Joshi chose to initiate debate on the Tamil writer Perumal Murugan's decision to renounce writing following protests from various organizations in the session that was to discuss ""Is the Commerce of Literature Today Killing Good Writing?".

And all the panelists were unamimous that the "burning of the book is act of violence".

Nobel Prize-winning author V.S.Naipul was also present to mark 50 years of the publication of his "A House for Mr. Biswas" that has now acquired the status of a classic. The 82-year-old, now on a wheel-chair, was moved to tears after he received overwhelming response from people as he was brought onto the stage.

Other interesting sessions that touched upon the subject of "writing on sex and refiguring masculinity" saw the panelists asking pertinent questions to the audience for "building stereotypes about these topics" and viewing them with a myopic outlook.

Adding to the event's appeal was discussions on contemporary issues like the situation of Pakistan, of the Middle East, the prospects of Israeli-Palstinian peace process, and India's watershed 2014 elections.

For history buffs, there were intriguing facets and episodes like the 19th century Chinese empress who really modernised her country, a diamond necklace scandal that doomed the French monarchy, the legend of Lawrence of Arabia and the audacious kidnapping of a German general from a Greek island in the penultimate year of World War II.

Unlike some previous years, the festival managed to stay away from any controversy and distinguished participants like Congress MP Shashi Tharoor, who attended several sessions, faced questions only on books politics, not the investigation into the murder of his wife Sunanda Pushkar .

As usual, Bollywood made its presence felt at the festival as prominent personalities Naseeruddin Shah, Waheeda Rahman, Javed Akhtar and Shabana Azmi participated in several sessions. In one memorable session, Shabana, daughter of iconic poet Kaifi Azmi, teamed with Salima Hashmi, daughter of equally iconic Faiz Ahmed Faiz, to discussed their illustrious fathers.

Literary luminaries like father of modern travel writing Paul Theroux, 2013 Man Booker Prize winner Eleanor Catton, Samuel Johnson Prize winner and author of "The Suspicions of Mr. Whicher" Kate Summerscale, Pakistani painter, writer and academic Hashmi, Pulitzer Prize-winning historian and journalist Kai Bird and the author of "Family Life" Akhil Sharma also attended the festival.

The festival as usual drew huge crowds, especially in its last two days, but sometimes this led to swamping of available space - especially where the venue was smaller - and created near chaos. It was a moot point how much some of people thronging the venue attended even one session or were interested in one, given that many walked out midway and the organisers must give this aspect some thought.

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Kolkata Book Fair 2015 gets high on tech

The 574 stalls and the food apart, the 39th edition boasts of better internet presence and even an app to help you find your way around!

A good book has often been called a man's best friend, or as Groucho Marx puts it, "Outside of a dog, a book is man's best friend. Inside of a dog it's too dark to read."

But the truth is undeniable -nothing can educate, make time fly or provide non-stop entertainment like a book. So, as we get closer to the 39th edition of the International Kolkata Book Fair, most of us have started getting sweaty palms, itching to grab our next cartload of entertainment. The organizers, too, have made big plans for all visitors. Not only are they offering more discounts, but have also made special transportation arrangements.

Moreover, the second edition of the three day Kolkata Literature Festival, which begins on February 6, promises enriching discussions and, of course, evenings of great music and dance.

TOI highlights some of the latest additions that promise to make this 12-day (January 28-February 8) event even more interesting.

BOOK FAIR APP FOR SMART PHONES
This latest offering from the organizers promises to make your book fair experience a lot smoother. Not only does the app provide information regarding the fair and daily events, but also helps locate individual stalls and utilities using maps and GPS. It makes stall-hopping easier by showing the shortest route to the stall you seek. Another advantage: it even works without an internet connection. The official website has a pop-out download link.

STRONGER WEB PRESENCE
The official website, kolkatabookfair.net, has been revamped and now flaunts a new look. Along with other features, the site also has links to Facebook, Twitter and YouTube pages of the event. These social media plat forms provide day to-day updates about the event and can easily help one keep abreast of events. These also make the feed back possible and make things more interactive. These features coupled with the app take the event up a notch on the technological scale.

OTHER HIGHLIGHTS THIS YEAR
The theme of the fair this year is Great Britain and Rob Lynes, Director, British Council India, will be present dur ing the January 27 inauguration. The organizers have also focused on making access to the fair easier by creating more amenities. "There will be three additional bus terminuses around the fair venue along with cabs and allied services. The idea is to make the fair more accessible to book lovers," said Tridib Kumar Chatterjee, the honorary general secretary of the executive committee. Moreover, the three-day Kolkata Literature Festival, which will start on February 6, will see a plethora of events that will fea ture Soumitra Chatterjee, Shobha De, Ramesh Sippy, Zeenat Aman, Ashok Banker, Amartya Sen, Adam Foulds and Rajdeep Sardesai, among others. Usha Uthup, Fossils, Alokananda Roy and group will also perform during the three days.

DISCOUNTS GALORE!
The privilege card that was introduced last year still stands, but this year, the organizers have joined hands with CESC to hand out coupons guaranteeing 15% discount on every purchase at the fair. The coupons will be distributed to all CESC consumers along with this month's electricity bills.

TRIVIA
The Kolkata Publishers' and Booksellers' Guild organized the first instalment of the book fair in 1976 with just 56 stalls. The entry fee was 50 paise! The fair traditionally starts on the last Wednesday of January, and ends on the first or second Sunday of February. Though it was a week-long event to start with, popular demand forced authorities to extend the duration to 12 days in 2005. It has been that way since It is the largest non-trade and the most-attended book fair in the world. It's also the world's largest annual conglomeration of books after the Frankfurt and London book fairs The fair, which is now held at the Milan Mela ground, had its share of accidents. In 1997, a massive fire destroyed over 10,000 books. In 1998, an untimely downpour wreaked havoc From the 1990s, the fair has always had a theme, typically focussing on a country. The theme country embassy is given a stall at the fairground centre and the gate is designed to match the theme.

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Four ways to tame frizzy hair

Do you find yourself reaching for the blow dryer or a straightener in order to tame your frizzy hair, more often than you'd actually like?

The easiest way of course is to just bundle up your hair into a messy bun or a top knot. However, here are a few ways in which you can get rid of the frizz in your hair, without using too many products:

An olive oil mask would work wonders for frizzy hair. Oil your hair and scalp with warm olive oil and wrap it in plastic cling for about an hour and then rinse off.

Avoid using hot water to rinse your hair. Cold water closes the cuticles which makes it less susceptible to frizz and moreover, it adds shine too!

Raw eggs too, help hydrate your hair. Mix the whites of the egg with olive oil and lemon and leave the mask to settle for about 30 minutes. Then apply it to the hair, and keep it on for 20 minutes before washing off.

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Title of Amish's upcoming book revealed

"Hold your head high; you are in Ram's kingdom,
Fight for justice; treat all as equal,
Protect the weak,
Know that Dharma is above all.
Hold your head high; you are in Ram's kingdom."

This was the Sanskrit hymn that featured in the launching video announcing the subject of bestselling author Amish Tripathi's new book at the Jaipur Literature Festival. After months of waiting and speculation, the title of the first book of the Ram Chandra series slated for release later this year has been revealed as the Scion of Ikshvaku. The core philosophy is the story of how Ram strived to establish Ram Rajya in a corrupt and lawless society, rendered in a fast-paced adventure and tempered by Amish's cutting-edge historical theories.

The series will be published by Westland Publishing Ltd, which ran a promotional "#WhatNextAmish" contest on social media and sent 250 fans '#MysteryBoxes' containing clues about the possible subject of the new book.

The author speaks to reporter Natasha Jha from The Times Of India on creating new history, innovative marketing, and his first series being adapted into a film.

In the Shiva Trilogy, you have tweaked 'facts' from traditional mythology; altering concepts that people have known for a long time. Is there any point where you draw the line?
My books are the blessing of Lord Shiva. I believe that I am just the channel, and follow the story as it comes to me. I had never worked on anything creative before The Immortals of Meluha, so all the control really is in His hands.

Will we see similar novel interpretations in the story of Lord Ram, considering that he has an incorruptible persona in mythology?
The book speaks of the struggles that Lord Ram went through as he fought to establish the perfect empire. There is only so much I can reveal now. You will have to wait for the rest. But the Ram Chandra series will be a respectful interpretation of the story of Lord Ram, just like the Shiva Trilogy was a respectful interpretation of the story of Lord Shiva.

In the past, you have used new media as promotional marketing tools. Can we expect the same broad, creative usage of different media with your upcoming series?
Yes. Even for The Oath of The Vayuputras, we had an altogether separate cover launch. The way that we announced the subject of the Scion of Ikshvaku through a video, you will see more interesting snippets roll out in the coming time. I have a wonderful PR and advertising team, as well as my family that is involved in the whole process.

Could you explain the title of the book?
Ikshvaku was the founder of the Suryavanshi dynasty, and Ram was one of the kings under that dynasty. In other words, he was an heir or a scion. Hence, the name Scion of Ikshvaku.

Karan Johar has acquired the rights to adapt the Shiva Trilogy into a film. How much are you involved with the scripting and filmmaking process?
I met various producers in the process of choosing the best person to carry out the task, but I was sold when Karan Johar said to me, "We will make a movie worthy of Lord Shiva." It is probably going to be one of the biggest budget movie series in India. As far as the planning is concerned, I am the creative consultant, and the script is run through me.

Will the new series feature any amount of interaction between characters from the Shiva trilogy and this one?
That is something I can't disclose yet, but once I've written all my books, you will see a pattern. All my stories are based on a great race that emerged 12,000 years ago and died 3,500 years ago. The Shiva Trilogy as well as the new series is along this Vedic age continuum.

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Decoding Hyderabad Literary Festival 2015

While Delhi was gearing up to receive US President Barack Obama, who was the chief guest this year for the Republic Day parade, the literature lovers in the city of Hyderabad were getting ready to spend their long weekend surrounding themselves with books, art and new ideas.

The fifth edition of the Hyderabad Literary Festival 2015, organised by the Hyderabad Literary Trust, was held from 23-26 January 2015. As expected, the festival opened to a full house. The chief guest at the inaugural function, which was organised at one of the city's upscale hotels, was renowned poet and literary figure, Javed Akhtar.

Akhtar was repeatedly being addressed as the Damaad of the city by the Festival Director, Ms. Amita Desai. In his inimitable style he stole the heart of the eclectic gathering with his simple yet witty speech given in a mixed language. "Language cannot be divided," he said before he shared his thoughts on literature and the importance of language in bringing people together. K.T Rama Rao, Hounourable Minister of Panchayat Raj & IT, Govt. of Telangana, who was the esteemed guest of the evening also engaged the audience with his take on books and how they impacted his growing-up years. The other highlight of the evening was the 80-minute performance by Dastangoi - an old art form of storytelling in Urdu - the language which was the prime focus this year in the Festival.

The guest nation was Poland and over hundred writers, authors, poets, thinkers and artists from India and overseas participated in the event. The festival directors (including Dr. T Vijay Kumar) and their team had carefully selected the inclusive list of speakers which boasted of some famous names like Javed Akhtar, Arun Shourie, Rashmi Bansal, Ashok Banker, Amrinder Singh, Leela Samson, Tom Alter, Wendell Rodricks, Paranjoy Guha Thakurta, Meena Kandasamy, Kalpana Kannabiran, Mahesh Bhatt, Miguel Manso, Mark Gwynne Jones, Neal Hall, Heike Fiedler, Mamta Sagar, Ira Trivedi, Vinita Nangia and many more.

The backdrop of the event was the majestic Hyderabad Public School, Begumpet. Multiple sessions were held in different areas inside the well spread-out campus, yet the sessions started and ended as per schedule. Almost all the sessions saw a good turnout and were very well received. All the sessions saw a long and lively discussion between panellists and audience.

The sessions on -- 'Art of Self-Publishing' by Rasana Atreya; Caste and Gender with Meena Kandasamy and Nadi Palshikar; The fiction of History with speakers Christopher Doyle, Sumedha Verma Ojha and Susy Mathews; Poetry connections - Performances by various cross cultural poets; Wendell Rodricks in conversation with Vinita Nangia -- are just to name a few.

My own session on 'Reflections on relationships,' with Vinita Nangia was received well. The moderator Uma Sridhar raised some pertinent questions around our works, which was followed by a session of Q&A with the audience. Workshops for children, book launches and exhibitions were the other draws to the festival and were equally full. Since it was a school campus, many of the students participated in relevant workshops and sessions.

Historical fiction writer, Medha Bhaskaran, observed that the moderators had done their homework well and it reflected in the manner they conducted the sessions. The event was supported by well-known publishers like Harper Collins, Pan Macmillan, Rupa & Co., Westland, Alchemy, Tulika and others. Some of them were also invited as speakers.

A few glaring drawbacks (other than the well- meaning but ill- informed support staff), were that the ladies toilet was located too far and often had no running water in the sink. Also, drinking water and refreshments for the delegates seemed to be in short supply. But as someone has said - there is no substitute in life for experience.

(Sujata Parashar was one of the participating authors at the Hyderabad Literary Festival 2015)

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Young women are colouring their hair grey!

The author has posted comments on this articlePurvaja Sawant, TNN | Jan 24, 2015, 12.00AM IST

Young women are colouring their hair grey!

Page 1 of 4

Vintage style granny chic fashion like thick-rimmed glasses, floral tea dresses, frumpy cardigans and kitten heels have featured heavily on the catwalks for many seasons. Taking a cue from this popular sartorial style, we now have celebrities who have extended this trend to beauty as well.

Popstars Rihanna and Lady Gaga, singer Kelly Osbourne, reality TV star Kylie Jenner are among the many young women, who have been spotted with grey hair. And we're not talking about a few odd pesky strands; they're going the whole hog and dyeing their hair in this stale shade of silver! Closer home, designer Nandita Mahtani has been known to proudly sport grey streaks. Why is this dull hue becoming such a rage amongst young women?

Grey is the new black
Stylist Uday Shirali believes granny chic beauty is a reflection of the carefree attitude that young women have today. "The confidence of sporting grey hair makes one look sexy. Feminine dye colours like pink, purple, blonde, magenta, cherry are done to death; grey is a welcome change. Also, there is the constant pressure to look different. So women who like experimenting and have access to high-end beauty products and salon services are not afraid to move away from conventional trends and try something path-breaking." why it will suit Indian women

"The silver streaks would look more enhanced and beautiful on black hair that most Indian girls have. This is a great look to pull off, if you are in your twenties and thirties," says Shraddha Naik, hairstylist.

The key to sporting the trend right

-If you're going grey on your hair, you have to complement it with the right make-up. Wear your lips in bright shades of hot pink and fiery red. Match the grey tones in your hair by going for smokey eyes.

-To lend a whimsical touch to your grey locks, add a purple or red tinge to the tips of your hair.

-Flowing waves or a bob work best for grey hair.

-Says Dr Amrapali Patil, "Since dyeing is a chemical process, your hair will require regular maintenance, like conditioning treatments and frequent touch-ups. Also, hair colour fades over time and looks dull, so avoid washing your hair frequently. Be careful in chlorine-treated swimming pools, as chlorine can cause the hair colour to change."

Article continues

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My book is the beauty Bible: Jamuna Pai

In a quick chat, celebrity cosmetologist Dr Jamuna Pai tells us about her book 'No One Has To Know' that will be released next week.

One of the senior celebrity cosmetologists in the country, Dr Jamuna Pai, marks her debut as an author with the upcoming launch of 'No One Has To Know'. The book has testimonials from some of her clients including Arjun Kapoor, Juhi Chawla, Malaika Arora Khan, Gauri Khan, Poonam Mahajan, Rocky S, Vikram Phadnis, Mandira Bedi, Sonu Nigam, Sonia Razdan Bhatt, Rita Dhody, Vikram Phadnis and Terence Lewis.

The proceeds from the sale of books will be utilised in aid of the acid attack victims, where in a team of leading surgeons will work on restoring the scarred facial skin and Dr. Pai will train the victims for a career in beauty if they are willing to pursue the same. The expenses will be borne by her.

Excerpts from the interview:

More than two decades in the business of beauty - what was the journey like?
It was a beautiful, though not easy. The journey of treading on an un-trodden path of aesthetics, by a doctor, was hard. There was no one before me in this field, in India. I had learned abroad and had to make protocols to suit Indian skin when India was not even open to basic beauty.

Why the title - 'no one has to know'? What inspired this title?
I believe in implementing small changes in life on a regular basis to bring about a long term changes in your life. Nothing has to be too drastic or overnight. Same is with my treatments and procedures. One can look a better version of oneself, fresher and rested after our treatments as I believe in the 'less is more' mantra. Hence the title No One Has To Know'.

This is your first book - what inspired you to write? And also, what took you so long to do a book - there are many dermatologists with far less experience, who have come up with books.
Though the book was being put together in my mind, I waited long enough to gather experience to enable me to feel like an expert who can advice others on Indian skincare regime.

Tell us about your experience in writing this book...
Between attending clients, to my international conferences, to the TV shows, to grooming the contestants of Miss India pageant, as well as other international pageants, it was sheer time management to devote time to write this book. I would talk into the dictaphone, write notes in between travels, to keep up to the deadlines. I had to write everything that I have learned over the years from life and from my clients. Looking back at it, it has been a wonderful experience, which again taught me many more things. And the book has turned out to be a 'beauty bible', I kept it very simple so that everyone can refer to it as a handbook for beauty.

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Tips for moving homes

Buying a new house is one of the most fulfilling experiences in life. Your home is your personal space and you would always want to make it special. Although, it is extremely exciting to move into your home, make sure you keep these tips handy so that the transition is smooth.

Hire movers and packers Shifting is very tiring, do not attempt to do everything youself. Hire experts and simply show them what needs to go where, and you are sorted. They are extremely professional and this will simplify the whole process of packing in stuff and shifting them to the new address.
Pack the stuff in slots, name them into categories Show them what needs to be packed together, slot them out into living room, bedroom, kids's room, kitchen and bathroom accessories. Mark every box with specific details so that you understand what's there in each box. Pack delicate stuff like handicraft, artefacts, crockery etc in cushioned boxes and mark them as 'fragile'.
Supervise the process Don't try to manage everything by yourself, take help from parents and friends to supervise the process of moving in. Allot one member at every point of change in hand. This will ensure that everything reaches your new home in one piece. Ask them not to rub heavy furniture against each other, not the bang boxes marked as 'fragile' and handle them carefully, etc.
Make sure all the work is complete before you move in Do not plan to move in even if a tad bit of the work is incomplete. Since, it is extremely difficult to make any chages once you move in. Even if small things like one of your designer walls is yet to be done or a cabinet in your kitchen is yet to be fixed, wait till they are all set. Do not hurry up.
Get the house blessed Make sure you get your house blessed before you move in, irrespective of any faith. It could be done in a simple and short way or by inviting and friends, but lrt this be an integral part of movong in. This helps bring in positive energies in your house ensuring good health and prosperity.
Start with one section at a time Do not open all the boxes at a time, start with one section at a time. This will ensure accuracy and finesse. Its best to begin with the living room as it is the first room that opens the door to your home. Then gradually set the other rooms. Although, you ca seek help from friends to set up all sections of your house, make sire the bedroom is done only by you and your spouse, since its your personal space and needs to be done up with love and care.

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The half bun is the lazy girl’s updo

The author has posted comments on this articleKasmin Fernandes, TNN | Jan 25, 2015, 12.00AM IST

The half bun is the lazy girl's updo 

Page 1 of 4

Pinning a loose bun on the crown of your head is the new timesaver

It's the kind of hairstyle that could save you on messy hair days. The half bun is part Oriental, part topknot, part ballerina bun and completely chic.

Spotted on: International celebrities who are usually ahead of the curve, like Ariana Grande, Vanessa Hudgens, Julianne Hough and Heidi Klum.

How to get it: To achieve the half bun, start by sectioning shampooed hair into two parts, halfway down the back of the skull. This hairstyle needs lots of volume to stay in place, so add a volumising hairspray. Sweep the top section into a loose loop. Fix it in place with bobby pins and a transparent elastic band. Leave the bottom section to dry. Add coconut or argan oil. Carry a hair spritzer with you to avoid flyaway strands.

Article continues

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How I start my day: Arvind Devalia

Embrace each day with renewed optimism. The first thing that I do upon waking up is to feel my legs and arms - and once I can feel them, I smile as I know I am still alive!

I immediately say a simple prayer of gratitude to our creator for giving me another day and for the amazing gift of this life and this world.
I begin each new day with the awareness and thrill that no matter what challenges I may be facing, this day is an exciting new beginning for me, another day full of miracles and opportunities. I usually wake up early, so as to experience and tap into nature's divine quietness before the hustle and bustle of the world takes over - and I begin my body's cleansing process by sipping a glass of hot water with the juice of a whole lemon.

After showering, I mindfully perform a few cycles of sun salutations, followed by a pow erful yogic kriya, which tunes my body's energy systems.

Next, I sit in quiet meditation for 20 minutes or more. This reflective time sets the tone of my day and it's a chance for me to imbibe love, peace and joy into my being and in my heart. During this meditation, I thank our creator and ask him how I can bring more of myself into the world today. What difference can I make? Who can I serve today? How will the world be a better place be cause I've lived another day?
What will I create today? Doing things for others and thinking about our ultimate legacy is what will give us a life of fulfilment and bring more love, peace and joy into our lives. After gently coming out of this meditation, I begin my day. I am ready to serve the world and another beautiful day beckons.

Arvind Devalia, Success coach and motivational speaker

As told to Nona Walia

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Tips for moving homes

Buying a new house is one of the most fulfilling experiences in life. Your home is your personal space and you would always want to make it special. Although, it is extremely exciting to move into your home, make sure you keep these tips handy so that the transition is smooth.

Hire movers and packers Shifting is very tiring, do not attempt to do everything youself. Hire experts and simply show them what needs to go where, and you are sorted. They are extremely professional and this will simplify the whole process of packing in stuff and shifting them to the new address.
Pack the stuff in slots, name them into categories Show them what needs to be packed together, slot them out into living room, bedroom, kids's room, kitchen and bathroom accessories. Mark every box with specific details so that you understand what's there in each box. Pack delicate stuff like handicraft, artefacts, crockery etc in cushioned boxes and mark them as 'fragile'.
Supervise the process Don't try to manage everything by yourself, take help from parents and friends to supervise the process of moving in. Allot one member at every point of change in hand. This will ensure that everything reaches your new home in one piece. Ask them not to rub heavy furniture against each other, not the bang boxes marked as 'fragile' and handle them carefully, etc.
Make sure all the work is complete before you move in Do not plan to move in even if a tad bit of the work is incomplete. Since, it is extremely difficult to make any chages once you move in. Even if small things like one of your designer walls is yet to be done or a cabinet in your kitchen is yet to be fixed, wait till they are all set. Do not hurry up.
Get the house blessed Make sure you get your house blessed before you move in, irrespective of any faith. It could be done in a simple and short way or by inviting and friends, but lrt this be an integral part of movong in. This helps bring in positive energies in your house ensuring good health and prosperity.
Start with one section at a time Do not open all the boxes at a time, start with one section at a time. This will ensure accuracy and finesse. Its best to begin with the living room as it is the first room that opens the door to your home. Then gradually set the other rooms. Although, you ca seek help from friends to set up all sections of your house, make sire the bedroom is done only by you and your spouse, since its your personal space and needs to be done up with love and care.

Stay updated on the go with Times of India News App. Click here to download it for your device.

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Young women are colouring their hair grey!

The author has posted comments on this articlePurvaja Sawant, TNN | Jan 24, 2015, 12.00AM IST

Young women are colouring their hair grey!

Page 1 of 4

Vintage style granny chic fashion like thick-rimmed glasses, floral tea dresses, frumpy cardigans and kitten heels have featured heavily on the catwalks for many seasons. Taking a cue from this popular sartorial style, we now have celebrities who have extended this trend to beauty as well.

Popstars Rihanna and Lady Gaga, singer Kelly Osbourne, reality TV star Kylie Jenner are among the many young women, who have been spotted with grey hair. And we're not talking about a few odd pesky strands; they're going the whole hog and dyeing their hair in this stale shade of silver! Closer home, designer Nandita Mahtani has been known to proudly sport grey streaks. Why is this dull hue becoming such a rage amongst young women?

Grey is the new black
Stylist Uday Shirali believes granny chic beauty is a reflection of the carefree attitude that young women have today. "The confidence of sporting grey hair makes one look sexy. Feminine dye colours like pink, purple, blonde, magenta, cherry are done to death; grey is a welcome change. Also, there is the constant pressure to look different. So women who like experimenting and have access to high-end beauty products and salon services are not afraid to move away from conventional trends and try something path-breaking." why it will suit Indian women

"The silver streaks would look more enhanced and beautiful on black hair that most Indian girls have. This is a great look to pull off, if you are in your twenties and thirties," says Shraddha Naik, hairstylist.

The key to sporting the trend right

-If you're going grey on your hair, you have to complement it with the right make-up. Wear your lips in bright shades of hot pink and fiery red. Match the grey tones in your hair by going for smokey eyes.

-To lend a whimsical touch to your grey locks, add a purple or red tinge to the tips of your hair.

-Flowing waves or a bob work best for grey hair.

-Says Dr Amrapali Patil, "Since dyeing is a chemical process, your hair will require regular maintenance, like conditioning treatments and frequent touch-ups. Also, hair colour fades over time and looks dull, so avoid washing your hair frequently. Be careful in chlorine-treated swimming pools, as chlorine can cause the hair colour to change."

Article continues

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My book is the beauty Bible: Jamuna Pai

In a quick chat, celebrity cosmetologist Dr Jamuna Pai tells us about her book 'No One Has To Know' that will be released next week.

One of the senior celebrity cosmetologists in the country, Dr Jamuna Pai, marks her debut as an author with the upcoming launch of 'No One Has To Know'. The book has testimonials from some of her clients including Arjun Kapoor, Juhi Chawla, Malaika Arora Khan, Gauri Khan, Poonam Mahajan, Rocky S, Vikram Phadnis, Mandira Bedi, Sonu Nigam, Sonia Razdan Bhatt, Rita Dhody, Vikram Phadnis and Terence Lewis.

The proceeds from the sale of books will be utilised in aid of the acid attack victims, where in a team of leading surgeons will work on restoring the scarred facial skin and Dr. Pai will train the victims for a career in beauty if they are willing to pursue the same. The expenses will be borne by her.

Excerpts from the interview:

More than two decades in the business of beauty - what was the journey like?
It was a beautiful, though not easy. The journey of treading on an un-trodden path of aesthetics, by a doctor, was hard. There was no one before me in this field, in India. I had learned abroad and had to make protocols to suit Indian skin when India was not even open to basic beauty.

Why the title - 'no one has to know'? What inspired this title?
I believe in implementing small changes in life on a regular basis to bring about a long term changes in your life. Nothing has to be too drastic or overnight. Same is with my treatments and procedures. One can look a better version of oneself, fresher and rested after our treatments as I believe in the 'less is more' mantra. Hence the title No One Has To Know'.

This is your first book - what inspired you to write? And also, what took you so long to do a book - there are many dermatologists with far less experience, who have come up with books.
Though the book was being put together in my mind, I waited long enough to gather experience to enable me to feel like an expert who can advice others on Indian skincare regime.

Tell us about your experience in writing this book...
Between attending clients, to my international conferences, to the TV shows, to grooming the contestants of Miss India pageant, as well as other international pageants, it was sheer time management to devote time to write this book. I would talk into the dictaphone, write notes in between travels, to keep up to the deadlines. I had to write everything that I have learned over the years from life and from my clients. Looking back at it, it has been a wonderful experience, which again taught me many more things. And the book has turned out to be a 'beauty bible', I kept it very simple so that everyone can refer to it as a handbook for beauty.

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The half bun is the lazy girl’s updo

Pinning a loose bun on the crown of your head is the new timesaver

It's the kind of hairstyle that could save you on messy hair days. The half bun is part Oriental, part topknot, part ballerina bun and completely chic.

Spotted on: International celebrities who are usually ahead of the curve, like Ariana Grande, Vanessa Hudgens, Julianne Hough and Heidi Klum.

How to get it: To achieve the half bun, start by sectioning shampooed hair into two parts, halfway down the back of the skull. This hairstyle needs lots of volume to stay in place, so add a volumising hairspray. Sweep the top section into a loose loop. Fix it in place with bobby pins and a transparent elastic band. Leave the bottom section to dry. Add coconut or argan oil. Carry a hair spritzer with you to avoid flyaway strands.

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How I start my day: Arvind Devalia

Embrace each day with renewed optimism. The first thing that I do upon waking up is to feel my legs and arms - and once I can feel them, I smile as I know I am still alive!

I immediately say a simple prayer of gratitude to our creator for giving me another day and for the amazing gift of this life and this world.
I begin each new day with the awareness and thrill that no matter what challenges I may be facing, this day is an exciting new beginning for me, another day full of miracles and opportunities. I usually wake up early, so as to experience and tap into nature's divine quietness before the hustle and bustle of the world takes over - and I begin my body's cleansing process by sipping a glass of hot water with the juice of a whole lemon.

After showering, I mindfully perform a few cycles of sun salutations, followed by a pow erful yogic kriya, which tunes my body's energy systems.

Next, I sit in quiet meditation for 20 minutes or more. This reflective time sets the tone of my day and it's a chance for me to imbibe love, peace and joy into my being and in my heart. During this meditation, I thank our creator and ask him how I can bring more of myself into the world today. What difference can I make? Who can I serve today? How will the world be a better place be cause I've lived another day?
What will I create today? Doing things for others and thinking about our ultimate legacy is what will give us a life of fulfilment and bring more love, peace and joy into our lives. After gently coming out of this meditation, I begin my day. I am ready to serve the world and another beautiful day beckons.

Arvind Devalia, Success coach and motivational speaker

As told to Nona Walia

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Young women are colouring their hair grey!

Vintage style granny chic fashion like thick-rimmed glasses, floral tea dresses, frumpy cardigans and kitten heels have featured heavily on the catwalks for many seasons. Taking a cue from this popular sartorial style, we now have celebrities who have extended this trend to beauty as well.

Popstars Rihanna and Lady Gaga, singer Kelly Osbourne, reality TV star Kylie Jenner are among the many young women, who have been spotted with grey hair. And we're not talking about a few odd pesky strands; they're going the whole hog and dyeing their hair in this stale shade of silver! Closer home, designer Nandita Mahtani has been known to proudly sport grey streaks. Why is this dull hue becoming such a rage amongst young women?

Grey is the new black
Stylist Uday Shirali believes granny chic beauty is a reflection of the carefree attitude that young women have today. "The confidence of sporting grey hair makes one look sexy. Feminine dye colours like pink, purple, blonde, magenta, cherry are done to death; grey is a welcome change. Also, there is the constant pressure to look different. So women who like experimenting and have access to high-end beauty products and salon services are not afraid to move away from conventional trends and try something path-breaking." why it will suit Indian women

"The silver streaks would look more enhanced and beautiful on black hair that most Indian girls have. This is a great look to pull off, if you are in your twenties and thirties," says Shraddha Naik, hairstylist.

The key to sporting the trend right

-If you're going grey on your hair, you have to complement it with the right make-up. Wear your lips in bright shades of hot pink and fiery red. Match the grey tones in your hair by going for smokey eyes.

-To lend a whimsical touch to your grey locks, add a purple or red tinge to the tips of your hair.

-Flowing waves or a bob work best for grey hair.

-Says Dr Amrapali Patil, "Since dyeing is a chemical process, your hair will require regular maintenance, like conditioning treatments and frequent touch-ups. Also, hair colour fades over time and looks dull, so avoid washing your hair frequently. Be careful in chlorine-treated swimming pools, as chlorine can cause the hair colour to change."

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‘Reading an e-book is like having virtual sex’

Electronic books versus paperbacks have always been a point of debate amongst the authors as well as the readers. But novelist Alberto Manguel gave the subject an interesting angle when he said that reading an ebook is like having virtual sex! The session of the renowned author at the Jaipur Literature festival was based on his famous novel - The Library Night.

"Writers write because they are compulsive readers and they do so in book-lined rooms. Forget about art imitating life: literature is a self-generating, self-referring activity." The Argentinian bibliophile Alberto Manguel, whose books include A History of Reading, is an expert on snugly closed circle, symbolised by the private library he installed in a 15th-century barn in the Loire.

As Manguel regretfully observes that the 'multimedia library' is potentially erasing the universal library of which Renaissance humanists dreamed, he feels that the traditional library is like a sacred place - one can own it, love it and live with it. It also reflects the kind of books one likes to read. Manguel added that though we always think that literature is about what writers write, it is vice versa. "Literature is always about what readers chose to read. Because a writer can write everything but readers only chooses to read what he wants," said Manguel.

Manguel is sad enough to know that the future belongs to the users of the Kindle reading device and to rough librarians who discard books as after transferring their contents to disks or CD-Roms that may be illegible in a decade.

http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/followceleb.cms?alias=Kindle,Jaipur Literature Festival,ebooks,Diggi Palace,Alberto Manguel

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Embrace marsala colour for home decor

From sprucing up the furniture with cushions and pillows to painting an entire wall of a room in this colour, there are plenty of ways to incorporate marsala, the hottest shade of the season, in your home space.

It will lend an elegant yet natural earthiness to your abode.

The vintage wine red colour was announced as 'The Colour of the Year' by Pantone Color Institute last month.

FabFurnish.com, an online Indian furniture and interior decoration retailer, has given tips on ways to use the hue in the colour palette of your homes. Here's how:

- Go for decoratives such as vases, candle holders and photo frames in marsala. This way, you'll be able to use this colour to give the perfect definition to your interiors. A lamp shade or even a clock in this colour will add the right amount of warmth and charm to any space.

- Marsala makes for an excellent choice for an accent wall, especially in the dining room. It has an organic air and is known to be a stimulant for the appetite. Alternatively, a dining table cover in marsala can also do the trick. The colour also exudes sophistication enough to be the ideal backdrop for a night of entertaining friends.

- A bright marsala-kissed rug or curtains can heighten the visual appeal of an otherwise simple room. Marsala goes very well with bronze or walnut-coloured bedposts and night tables. Curtains or rugs in marsala with subtle gold embroidery will drape your room in elegance and style.

- The kitchen is another great place to play around with marsala because of its nurturing and fulfilling appeal. Appliances, kitchen slabs or cupboards in this wine-kissed colour can completely transform the look of the happiest room of the home. If you want only a minimal touch of the trendy shade, go in for a marsala kitchen splashback.

- When it comes to home decor, colours such as grey, golden yellow, cobalt, turquoise and lighter hues of green can be paired creatively with marsala. To add opulence and fashion in one solid statement, create a beige or dull-gold theme with marsala across the interiors of your home.

http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/followceleb.cms?alias=Touch,Subtle,Pantone Color Institute,Gold,embrace

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My book is the beauty Bible: Jamuna Pai

In a quick chat, celebrity cosmetologist Dr Jamuna Pai tells us about her book 'No One Has To Know' that will be released next week.

One of the senior celebrity cosmetologists in the country, Dr Jamuna Pai, marks her debut as an author with the upcoming launch of 'No One Has To Know'. The book has testimonials from some of her clients including Arjun Kapoor, Juhi Chawla, Malaika Arora Khan, Gauri Khan, Poonam Mahajan, Rocky S, Vikram Phadnis, Mandira Bedi, Sonu Nigam, Sonia Razdan Bhatt, Rita Dhody, Vikram Phadnis and Terence Lewis.

The proceeds from the sale of books will be utilised in aid of the acid attack victims, where in a team of leading surgeons will work on restoring the scarred facial skin and Dr. Pai will train the victims for a career in beauty if they are willing to pursue the same. The expenses will be borne by her.

Excerpts from the interview:

More than two decades in the business of beauty - what was the journey like?
It was a beautiful, though not easy. The journey of treading on an un-trodden path of aesthetics, by a doctor, was hard. There was no one before me in this field, in India. I had learned abroad and had to make protocols to suit Indian skin when India was not even open to basic beauty.

Why the title - 'no one has to know'? What inspired this title?
I believe in implementing small changes in life on a regular basis to bring about a long term changes in your life. Nothing has to be too drastic or overnight. Same is with my treatments and procedures. One can look a better version of oneself, fresher and rested after our treatments as I believe in the 'less is more' mantra. Hence the title No One Has To Know'.

This is your first book - what inspired you to write? And also, what took you so long to do a book - there are many dermatologists with far less experience, who have come up with books.
Though the book was being put together in my mind, I waited long enough to gather experience to enable me to feel like an expert who can advice others on Indian skincare regime.

Tell us about your experience in writing this book...
Between attending clients, to my international conferences, to the TV shows, to grooming the contestants of Miss India pageant, as well as other international pageants, it was sheer time management to devote time to write this book. I would talk into the dictaphone, write notes in between travels, to keep up to the deadlines. I had to write everything that I have learned over the years from life and from my clients. Looking back at it, it has been a wonderful experience, which again taught me many more things. And the book has turned out to be a 'beauty bible', I kept it very simple so that everyone can refer to it as a handbook for beauty.

http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/followceleb.cms?alias=Dr Jamuna Pai,debut,books,author

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Tips for moving homes

Buying a new house is one of the most fulfilling experiences in life. Your home is your personal space and you would always want to make it special. Although, it is extremely exciting to move into your home, make sure you keep these tips handy so that the transition is smooth.

Hire movers and packers Shifting is very tiring, do not attempt to do everything youself. Hire experts and simply show them what needs to go where, and you are sorted. They are extremely professional and this will simplify the whole process of packing in stuff and shifting them to the new address.
Pack the stuff in slots, name them into categories Show them what needs to be packed together, slot them out into living room, bedroom, kids's room, kitchen and bathroom accessories. Mark every box with specific details so that you understand what's there in each box. Pack delicate stuff like handicraft, artefacts, crockery etc in cushioned boxes and mark them as 'fragile'.
Supervise the process Don't try to manage everything by yourself, take help from parents and friends to supervise the process of moving in. Allot one member at every point of change in hand. This will ensure that everything reaches your new home in one piece. Ask them not to rub heavy furniture against each other, not the bang boxes marked as 'fragile' and handle them carefully, etc.
Make sure all the work is complete before you move in Do not plan to move in even if a tad bit of the work is incomplete. Since, it is extremely difficult to make any chages once you move in. Even if small things like one of your designer walls is yet to be done or a cabinet in your kitchen is yet to be fixed, wait till they are all set. Do not hurry up.
Get the house blessed Make sure you get your house blessed before you move in, irrespective of any faith. It could be done in a simple and short way or by inviting and friends, but lrt this be an integral part of movong in. This helps bring in positive energies in your house ensuring good health and prosperity.
Start with one section at a time Do not open all the boxes at a time, start with one section at a time. This will ensure accuracy and finesse. Its best to begin with the living room as it is the first room that opens the door to your home. Then gradually set the other rooms. Although, you ca seek help from friends to set up all sections of your house, make sire the bedroom is done only by you and your spouse, since its your personal space and needs to be done up with love and care.

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Jaipur opens its arms to JLF 2015!

The author has posted comments on this articleGunjan Verma, TNN | Jan 21, 2015, 05.40PM IST

Jaipur opens its arms to JLF  2015!

Page 1 of 4

An eclectic blend of the colorful heritage of the city of Jaipur, books, authors and discussions - the 8th edition of the Jaipur Literature Fest kicked off today.

Thousands gathered to listen to an array of renowned authors as well as some popular names from showbiz like Javed Akhtar, Shabana Azmi, Prasoon Joshi, Naseeruddin Shah and Girish Karnad.

The festival will witness an array of celebrated authors, historians, film-makers, explorers, playwrights and musicians.

To mark the start of the five days of festivities at the beautiful Diggi palace, the guests were welcomed with a performance by famous Rajasthani musicians Nathoo Solanki, Chugge, Khan and the Jaisalmer Boys. They were accompanied by local dance performers and singer-songwriter Sonam Kalra.

The theme this year running across the festival include a focus on 'The Poetic Imagination', 'Mythology', 'Literature in Cinema', 'The Seven Deadly Sins', 'Women Uninterrupted' and 'Aesthetics and Art'. To start the festival, the Keynote address on 'The Poetic Imagination' was delivered by Vijay Sheshadari, Kedarnath Singh and Arvind Krishna Mehrotra.

The first half of the day witnessed great excitement at the different venues within the palace with speakers Prasoon Joshi, Javed Akhtar, Mark Tully and Devdutt Patnaik engaging audience in some highly interesting sessions. Popular chef Vikas Khanna launched his book 'Masterchef India Cookbook'.

The day will close with a musical performance by The Unorthodox, Unprecedented and Preacher along with sitar virtuoso, Sheema Mukherjee for an evening of fun.

Article continues

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How to lighten the skin naturally

The author has posted comments on this articleTNN | Jan 22, 2015, 12.00AM IST

How to lighten the skin naturally

Page 1 of 4

For a number of women, the area around the mouth or eyes suffers from hyperpigmentation, making it darker than the rest of the face.

While resorting to bleaching products is one option, there are numerous homemade recipes that can lighten the skin and have the added bonus of being chemical free. Try some of these methods for a more even skin.
Yogurt: Yogurt contains lactic acid, which is great for bleaching the skin. Leave it on your face for a few minutes and then wash off with lukewarm water. This also helps get rid of freckles.
Oranges: Take two spoons of orange pulp and combine it with a pinch of turmeric. Apply the mixture on your face before you go to sleep and wash it off the next morning.
Honey: Darkness is often caused by dry skin and honey helps lighten as well as moisturise the skin. Apply it on the face for ten minutes, then wash off with warm water. This also helps remove the dead skin cells and makes your face look brighter in general.

Article continues

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‘Reading an e-book is like having virtual sex’

The author has posted comments on this articleGunjan Verma, TNN | Jan 22, 2015, 02.35PM IST

'Reading an e-book is like having virtual sex' (Image courtesy: Getty Images)

Page 1 of 4

Electronic books versus paperbacks have always been a point of debate amongst the authors as well as the readers. But novelist Alberto Manguel gave the subject an interesting angle when he said that reading an ebook is like having virtual sex! The session of the renowned author at the Jaipur Literature festival was based on his famous novel - The Library Night.

"Writers write because they are compulsive readers and they do so in book-lined rooms. Forget about art imitating life: literature is a self-generating, self-referring activity." The Argentinian bibliophile Alberto Manguel, whose books include A History of Reading, is an expert on snugly closed circle, symbolised by the private library he installed in a 15th-century barn in the Loire.

As Manguel regretfully observes that the 'multimedia library' is potentially erasing the universal library of which Renaissance humanists dreamed, he feels that the traditional library is like a sacred place - one can own it, love it and live with it. It also reflects the kind of books one likes to read. Manguel added that though we always think that literature is about what writers write, it is vice versa. "Literature is always about what readers chose to read. Because a writer can write everything but readers only chooses to read what he wants," said Manguel.

Manguel is sad enough to know that the future belongs to the users of the Kindle reading device and to rough librarians who discard books as after transferring their contents to disks or CD-Roms that may be illegible in a decade.

Article continues

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My book is the beauty Bible: Jamuna Pai

In a quick chat, celebrity cosmetologist Dr Jamuna Pai tells us about her book 'No One Has To Know' that will be released next week.

One of the senior celebrity cosmetologists in the country, Dr Jamuna Pai, marks her debut as an author with the upcoming launch of 'No One Has To Know'. The book has testimonials from some of her clients including Arjun Kapoor, Juhi Chawla, Malaika Arora Khan, Gauri Khan, Poonam Mahajan, Rocky S, Vikram Phadnis, Mandira Bedi, Sonu Nigam, Sonia Razdan Bhatt, Rita Dhody, Vikram Phadnis and Terence Lewis.

The proceeds from the sale of books will be utilised in aid of the acid attack victims, where in a team of leading surgeons will work on restoring the scarred facial skin and Dr. Pai will train the victims for a career in beauty if they are willing to pursue the same. The expenses will be borne by her.

Excerpts from the interview:

More than two decades in the business of beauty - what was the journey like?
It was a beautiful, though not easy. The journey of treading on an un-trodden path of aesthetics, by a doctor, was hard. There was no one before me in this field, in India. I had learned abroad and had to make protocols to suit Indian skin when India was not even open to basic beauty.

Why the title - 'no one has to know'? What inspired this title?
I believe in implementing small changes in life on a regular basis to bring about a long term changes in your life. Nothing has to be too drastic or overnight. Same is with my treatments and procedures. One can look a better version of oneself, fresher and rested after our treatments as I believe in the 'less is more' mantra. Hence the title No One Has To Know'.

This is your first book - what inspired you to write? And also, what took you so long to do a book - there are many dermatologists with far less experience, who have come up with books.
Though the book was being put together in my mind, I waited long enough to gather experience to enable me to feel like an expert who can advice others on Indian skincare regime.

Tell us about your experience in writing this book...
Between attending clients, to my international conferences, to the TV shows, to grooming the contestants of Miss India pageant, as well as other international pageants, it was sheer time management to devote time to write this book. I would talk into the dictaphone, write notes in between travels, to keep up to the deadlines. I had to write everything that I have learned over the years from life and from my clients. Looking back at it, it has been a wonderful experience, which again taught me many more things. And the book has turned out to be a 'beauty bible', I kept it very simple so that everyone can refer to it as a handbook for beauty.

http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/followceleb.cms?alias=Dr Jamuna Pai,debut,books,author

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So what’s your skin type?

Here are a few quick questions that can help you understand your skin better.

If you can figure out your skin type correctly, most of your skin-related problems will become easier to handle. Here are a few quick questions that can help you understand your skin better...

Q1) Does your skin feel dry and parched after a wash?
A. Yes all the time.
B. Sometimes. Whenever I use a harsh facewash.
C. No, not really.

Q2) Do you feel it is compulsory to use a body lotion after a bath?
A. Of course. I can't miss that because my skin feels flaky
B. Usually. Especially if I am wearing short dresses or sleeve less
C. No, I don't need it.

Q3) What kind of moisturiser do you use?
A. Whatever I get.
B. Something with a sunscreen
C. My moisturiser always has sunscreen and a lot of extra nourishment.

Q4) Do you think your lips feel very dry during winter?
A. All the time.
B. Sometimes.
C. No, never.

Q5) In the evening, when you are back home, this is how your skin feels.......
A. Very dry. And my face feels stretchy and arms, legs and elbows feel flaky.
B. Skin feels okay. But after washing, looks fresh and rejuvenated.
C. My skin feels oily and sticky.

Q6) Do you suffer from cracked heels during the cold months?
A. Yes, always. My clothes get stuck in the cracks and skin feels parched.
B. Sometimes it does dry up, but I never really have visible cracks there.
C. No, very rarely.

Answers
Mostly As
You suffer from terribly dry skin and you need intense moisture treatments if you want to retain youthful softness and glow on your skin. You seem to be careless. The 'I use whatever I get' can be harmful for your skin. Use a hydrating and nourishing moisturiser, not just on your face but all over your body at least thrice daily.

Mostly Bs
You seem to have combination skin. It is partly dry and partly oily. This type of skin needs care because you don't want to overdo neither oily or dry skin products. Take care to keep your T-zone cleansed properly.

Mostly Cs
You are lucky to have partly oily to normal skin, because this skin type remains youthful and wrinkle-free for longer. However, you might be acne-prone so you need to keep your face clean and pores minimised.

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