SIDELIGHTS OF HIGH COURT

Enter the High Court and the premises will treat you with sumptuous aroma of mithai, pakoras and tea. Even inside when you will ask anyone for a teastall, everyone is sure to guide you to Bindu chaiwala, saying: “This is not an ordinary stall. There’s an interesting history to it.” and that’s true. The shop, serving delectable Lahore special ‘barfi’ and ‘malai mar ke chai,’ belongs to third generation stall runners, the trio of Sharma brothers: Pitambar, Arvind and Bhupinder. They got it as inheritance from father Pandit Prem Nath, who also was earlier at Lahore and Simla High court serving chai-nashta to judges and advocates like his father Pandit Parsuram. So as the Punjab and Haryana High court moved from Lahore, Simla, Amritsar (for a short span) to Chandigarh the family moved along.
“Our shop is as old as the high court,” says Pitambar, a graduate who is happily following footsteps of his father.
Talking about the tea-culture in India, that has become staple now. He says, “My dad used to say that decades ago none would have tea but milk. The British made it popular in India. We still serve tea with malai that’s a bit more nourishing than ordinary tea.”
As Pitambar is busy preparing tea, a tall man adorning that black robe enters the shop, with happiness written clearly on his face, and says, “Chal sab da muh mitha kara.” Be it celebrating a win, an occasion like Diwali or somebody getting promoted from peon to judge this sumptuous barfi is an essential part of all merriment in the high court.
Relishing a cuppa of tea, the advocate adds, “Bindu’s preparation is out of the world. Our off-shore relatives who visit us in winter holidays demand nothing else but the khalas mithai.” The recipe for much-talked about barfi is pure milk and sugar that’s made in a large karavi in the small shop. Arvind says, “Time has changed but not our grandpas’ recipe.”

DUBAI

The Middle East has two faces. One holds on to old ‘Olive tree’ values and the other, promoting duty-free mall and family tourism. Dubai falls into the latter. The place is a heady concoction of past and the future: an upbeat city and timeless desert.
Landing at the Dubai airport, Alampreet Singh was taken back by the distinctive blend of east and west -The old world charm and hospitality clubbed with the new world comfort and convenience. He was zapped to find lush green lawns in the desert. That’s how Dubai offers the visitor a fascinating kaleidoscope of contrasts.
Alam supports the view that it’s emerging as the future business destination. In a short span the way Dubai has come to that international platform is unbelievable. “Six-lane roads, dotted with state-of-art shopping arcades, beach Museums and other high rise buildings, and aromatic food courts remind visitors of the famous Oxford Street or Madison Avenue, reviving the European experience,” says this globetrotter.
Nothing can be as bizzare as a Dubai national asking this Punjabi ‘Hore bhaji ki hal hai,’
Alam says, “At first, I was stunned to hear a person in that country talking in my mother tongue. It’s a mullti-national world.”
You are sure to bang into number of Pakis and Indians there, especially at Meena Bazzar. To get update on what’s new and hep in the Asian fashion, they all hang around at this Indian market. “You can pick up all Indian stuff there – gold, jewellery and dresses but what pulls the maximum crowd is ‘golgapa’ stall,” titters Alam.
Shopping is in itself an experience in Dubai, with large supermarkets called Souk, selling the best of a product range. “If you wanna pick gold, visit the Gold Souk that offers a whole range of designs and caratage.”
When it comes to entertainment, you cannot call Dubai unadventurous with so many carnivals simultaneously happening. Alam says, “It’s a happening place. Carnivals are organized to keep the tourists amused. People love to be a part of festivity. There’s a lot of activity but not very stark and open.”
Purpose of Alam’s trip, besides leisure, was to have a closer look at the Knowledge Village of Bits Pilani University. In the country that fast adapting to the globalisation, the education system is also at par with the world.
“Law and order is strict,” says Alam. This keen observer was surprised to see women decked with gold moving around freely. “At any given time dames are darning kilos of gold absolutely safe and sound!”

DANISH MISS UNIVERSE

This proud Danish, who contested for Miss Universe 2005 for Denmark was in city beautiful on Saturday. Miss Scandinavia: Ramneek Gitte Hanspal peaches complexion, high cheekbones and sparkling eyes are not as winsome as her charming smile, standing true to the middle name Gitte, that means goddess.
But all gabru’s who are bowled over by the gorgeous dame, mind you that she not only comprehends Punjabi, rather is fluent enough in our boli. And, she’s engaged to her love interest Navkiran Singh whom she calls: “Apna Punjabi Munda from Bhalth in Jalandhar and settled in Denmark.”
This light-eyed beauty pageant has no tantrums. She rather spreads her charms with polite, yet in her face attitude. Her success mantra is - ‘Never say no,’ who knows where an opportunity awaits you.
Born to Punjabi father Rajinder Singh and Danish mother Ulla, Ramneek seems to be more attached to Indian roots. Interestingly, her mother made her familiar with Punjabi language and culture. “Mom learnt Punjabi and taught us too. She even recites Shabad Gurbani.”
Hanspal came to Chandigarh for her Kangan ceremony. “I wanted to have the ceremony here amidst my paternal family. I do stay way from them, yet I’m closer to them than my maternal-Dan kin.” Because of her gastronomic interests in sarsong ka saag, tandoori chicken and butter chicken, this dame learnt cooking Indian delicacies too. “I savour Punjabi food. It’s only gymning that keeps me in shape.”
Ramneek says, “In Denmark winning a beauty pageant is not as grand an achievement as in India.” She repents, “Had I contested for India, I would have enjoyed strong backing.” Being movie buff and die-hard fan of Amitabh Bachchan, Ramneek always wanted to climb to the glitzy glamour world. “I love Bollywood flicks and it had a strong impact on me. Since childhood, I dreamt of being a part of tinsel town.” After winning Miss Denmark title, she now wants to first get through master degree in Management in Innovation and Business Development. “After completing my PG, I would like to walk on Indian ramp or shake a leg in music videos.”

BELL THE CAT

Taming the CAT! Pressure is mounting on management aspirants as the date for major MBA entrance, CAT, is drawing nearer. It’s just a day away! No matter how tough it maybe, the mantra of management gurus’ is - ‘Chilax and keep your cool.’ Go for a shopping spree, chill out with friends or go for a movie.
Stop cramming up formulae at the last moment. CAT is all about testing your managerial skills. It’s aptitude that’s important, so bookworm attitude doesn’t assure a good score. City-based Amitesh Rattan, who is presently pursuing MBA at IIM (Lucknow) says over phone, “No practice test now. At the last minute, relax and store your energies for the D-day. That’s what I exactly did.”
Be confident and give your best shot to CAT. Remember, tension will only make you loose half the battle, so relax. Psychologist of GMCH, BS Chavan believes that pressure is obivious but mind it. It should not interfere with your performance. He advices, “Take atleast seven-hour nap is important for good concentration. Go for a walk, pursue some hobby, meditate and exercise to maintain your calm. Take a balanced diet including veggies, milk and fruits.”
In the examination hall, don’t bother about pattern or format of questions. And, because of negative marking, it’s a strict no-no to hit and trial method of blindly ticking the answer-sheet.
The man who has authored a book on solved CAT papers and taught several MBA students over a span of 10 years, Dinesh Kumar, says, “When you have worked hard for months together, why to worry. The idea of CAT is to test your management skills under stress as later you have to be upfront with customer problems.”
At the end of the day, state of mind matters the most. Suvidh Arora who is of mentoring MBA aspirants at a city-based institute says, “Positive approach is required. We organized a yoga camp at Sukhna lake to help students coping the pressure and taught them asanas to help them fighting stress.”

CAROLS

‘Jingle Bells’ are tinkling across the city as Christmas is round the corner. while people have started marinating the Christmas cakes, carol singers are gearing up to greet near and dear ones in the most melodious way. All will gather round a bonfire on terrace to shake a leg on tuneful carols and relishing delicious cakes and dry fruits.
Charles Samuel, principal of Mount Carmel, who enjoys devotional singing quips, “Chalking out a list of friends that carol-group will visit does not work. Once you start singing at porch of one house, the whole locality would join in. Neighbours would then invite you to their houses.” Wife Annie Samuel titters, “The group ends up singing for days together. And finally, on Christmas everyone will complain of bad throat.”
The Samuels have carol and other devotional albums - “Lets Praise the Lord” and “Yishu Ke Pass”- to their credit. Even junior Samuels – Jefferson and Jonnathan are part of it. None learnt singing professionally but as they say – ‘Practice makes a man perfect.’
Charles says, “Since childhood I have been into carol singing. I composed few devotional numbers that the family insisted to treasure.” That’s how they planned to come out with soulful albums. The Samuels are a part of choir at Church in Sector 41 too.
‘Silent Night’ and ‘Oh! Holy Night’ are couple’s all time favourite. But junior Samuels love fast tracks. Elvis Presley’s “Snow is falling” is 15-year-old Jonnathan’s favourite, besides ‘Jingle bell.’ Talking about carol singing, Jonnathan titters, “At night you go around houses, sing songs and party hard – that’s the ultimate fun!”
Annie recalls one interesting incident. She says, “Once Charles and I were singing at Ladies Park in Simla. Famous music directors’ Laxmi Kant-Parey Lal heard us. They approached Charles for some Bollywood number and assured good fat amount.” But this devote singer refused. Charles says, “My voice is dedicated to God.”

CAROLS

‘Jingle Bells’ are tinkling across the city as Christmas is round the corner. while people have started marinating the Christmas cakes, carol singers are gearing up to greet near and dear ones in the most melodious way. All will gather round a bonfire on terrace to shake a leg on tuneful carols and relishing delicious cakes and dry fruits.
Charles Samuel, principal of Mount Carmel, who enjoys devotional singing quips, “Chalking out a list of friends that carol-group will visit does not work. Once you start singing at porch of one house, the whole locality would join in. Neighbours would then invite you to their houses.” Wife Annie Samuel titters, “The group ends up singing for days together. And finally, on Christmas everyone will complain of bad throat.”
The Samuels have carol and other devotional albums - “Lets Praise the Lord” and “Yishu Ke Pass”- to their credit. Even junior Samuels – Jefferson and Jonnathan are part of it. None learnt singing professionally but as they say – ‘Practice makes a man perfect.’
Charles says, “Since childhood I have been into carol singing. I composed few devotional numbers that the family insisted to treasure.” That’s how they planned to come out with soulful albums. The Samuels are a part of choir at Church in Sector 41 too.
‘Silent Night’ and ‘Oh! Holy Night’ are couple’s all time favourite. But junior Samuels love fast tracks. Elvis Presley’s “Snow is falling” is 15-year-old Jonnathan’s favourite, besides ‘Jingle bell.’ Talking about carol singing, Jonnathan titters, “At night you go around houses, sing songs and party hard – that’s the ultimate fun!”
Annie recalls one interesting incident. She says, “Once Charles and I were singing at Ladies Park in Simla. Famous music directors’ Laxmi Kant-Parey Lal heard us. They approached Charles for some Bollywood number and assured good fat amount.” But this devote singer refused. Charles says, “My voice is dedicated to God.”

TRAVELOGUES

How about studying in the lap of lush green mountains overlooking the sea in Australia?
Gradually, the southern hemisphere’s tourist hub has turned into a global educational centre. Every year many Indians fly down to Australian Universities quite unaware of what’s the place has to offer. First few months are spent more in adjusting to the Aussie lifestyle.
But before sending child to a foreign land for studies, a paranoid mom RH Singh, founder director of Smart Kids Kindergarten took the pain of visiting Australia. She checked campus life, staying arrangements, standard of living and other necessary things to her satisfaction. Aussie faculty was quite taken back at an Indian mother coming all the way just to get the feel of the place.
“After my trip to Australia I am ready to send my son, Alammohan Singh to join RMIT University, Melbourne,” says Singh. Being an Indian, she was happy to see not much of western influence striking Australia. Aussies are family oriented people. Kids continue living with parent till they are settled.
Combining leisure with work, after Melbourne Singh headed towards Sydney and later moved to Auckland, New Zealand.
“The Australian capital is like any other metropolitan city in the world fast and busy. Life runs at a much faster pace than time.” During two days of stay in Sydney, Singh spent most of her time at Habour Bridge or Opera House. “When young, I would dream about standing at Harbour Bridge quietly. I finally came true. There was lot of movement around, lot of sound of cluttering, music of operas and people busy enjoying themselves.”
Surfing and yoking at the exotic beaches is a delight. For party animals there are numerous nightclubs and casinos to enjoy the evening.
“I met one of students there, who advised me to visit Crown Casino. Waiters, ushers ands barmen all were decent in mannerism. Exclusive juxtapositioning of flowers and light created a scintillating live show amidst all casino activity.”
Then Singh moved on to another Southern retreat – Auckland. It was Diwali time. For first time after marriage this dedicated mother was away from husband Harmohan on both Diwali and her birthday. She also missed her mom, Amrita Kohli. But friends with whom she stayed over: Sonia and Ripu in Melbourne, Manjeet and Veenu in Sydney and Premjit and Opinder in Auckland made her feel at home.
Singh could never imagine that Diwali is that popular even in the other part of the globe. She recollects, “Just like India, on Diwali there was merriment all around with drink, dinner and dance, plus the dazzling fireworks.”
One Tree Hill, the second highest volcanic peak in Auckland, next to Mount Eden, offers views of the city and has a huge obelisk at the top.
This avid traveler prefers not to have Indian food in a foreign land, rather relish the local flavour. Recalling what’s available on platter in Melbourne, Singh says, “Food was not a problem.” Like Mumbai, every second place in Melbourne is an eating joint. All cuisine: Italian, Lebanese, Chinese, Italian, Paki and even Sri Lankan are available there.”Talking about two most countries famous for dairy products, how can one forget about chocolates. “In markets and shopping areas have lot of pastry-shops. Delicious chocolates diary products, meat, cheese and oversized hybrid vegetable are what all cater to the local taste buds.”

VANCOUVER
Gear up for an adventure of lifetime... as Manjeet Singh is going to take us on a ride to Vancouver, famous for its big-city lifestyle and outdoor fun in such cheek-by-jowl proximity. Ski in the morning, sail in the afternoon and still make it back to town in time for a cocktail or three.
Beach is what North Indians go nutty about. Manjeet says, “Beaches were cool. People enjoyed playing football, volleyball and sunbathing.” Beyond rocky-sandy beaches, clean and green gardens, the systematic way of functioning, spick-n-span environment and discipline impressed Singh.
During his Canadian trip, he went with his friend Vijay Mahajan to Victoria City for a week. He says “Victoria City is very small and thinly populated city in Vancouver Island, still the system it’s very organized.”
Five-days sloughing, then two days to party fascinated him the most. Natives there are always willing to doff the bike shorts, throw on their best t-shirt, and go out on the town. It's a city that loves to entertain. Sports and live music take precedence, with theatre very close behind and a healthy comedy scene to boot.
The two friends had a blast exploring the best of Victoria, Vancouver Island, the Gulf Islands and the Sunshine Coast! Famous for green spaces, countercultural and cosmopolitan neighbourhoods, Vancouver is a tourist delight. Gastown, the city's original settlement, now transformed into a gussied-up historical quarter is another hotspot, he adds.
He calls Vancouver a small India with two cities - Sari and Delta – carrying the Punjabi tone with road signs in both English and Punjabi. There are temples and gurdwaras all over Canada.
When Punjabi language has reached Vancouver, how can Punjabi food be left behind. “Continental and Chinese food stuff available there are lip-smacking. Punjabi specialities can also be easily tried. Not only Indian abroad but Phirangs are crazy for Punjabi cuisine.”
Out of astonishment Manjeet says that the place is actually dirt free. You can wear a shirt for two consecutive days and the collars will still be neat.

LEH
‘In the land of Lamas, don’t behave like a Gama,’ this interesting caution is a common site in Leh. And city-based industrialist Arvinder Singh who frequently zooms through the cold desert explains us the why of it.
“Route to Leh is a scenic delight! It has skin piercing bitter breeze, deadly calmness and lofty mountains to offer,” he titters. In the adverse weather to rescue masons from much botheration of construction Arvinder supplies cemented sheets that makes construct a house possible in few hours.
Well! Unlike many travellers who prefer taking a road this roady loves to flip on his sedan to Leh. “Travelling by road helps you to get climatised to the rising altitude,” he suggests.
Crossing five passes, enjoying the panoramic views at lakes and origin of Chenab and Satluj, Spiti makes this journey out of the world experience. “After Rohtang there is no vegetation for miles together. You need to carry lot of grub, juices and foremost a hot water-bottle to sustain the cold,” advises Arvinder.
After Bara Lacha and Lachungla passes, the next destination would be the world’s highest pass – Tang Langa. He quips, “There is no second chance there. One rain and landslides come blocking the roads. There are enough petrol-pumps but tyres can go flat anytime, so you ought to be ready with puncture tape.” Or it’s better to get on tubeless ones.”
Throughout the path you will be accompanied by rivulet and cascading waterfalls. Near Chander taal you are sure to bang into many Europeans near who come all the way to enjoy cycling. “These hard souls are used to such weather for them is pleasant,” chortle Arvinder. They love riding to Leh where they spend months together. “Cheap accommodation, amicable habitats and hospitable guest house at the amazingly beautiful spot- what else do they need?” questions Arvinder. But on hitting leh you need a minimum three days of rest to adapt to the dipping mercury that goes as far as –20 degree Celisus.
Thereafter its time to head towards Pangong Tso, the hollow lake. Only it’s one-third-part falls in India and the rest in China. This calm, clear and unending expanse is one of biggest lake in Asia at an altitude of 14,200 feet.
“Mapping Pangong gives a sense of achievement. Even armymen look at you respectfully, when you mention Pangong,” Arvinder says. Its crystal clear water plays with sunlight to display the bands of rainbow hues.

GARDENING

Step into Bewli’s villa in Sector 36 and calm and serene ambience extends a warm welcome. It’s mundane exteriors and unadorned doorway won’t hint you about artistic treasure trapped in it. It’s owner Brig Bewli, the director, Survey of India, who is also the president of National Cactus and Succulent Society of India has a passion for traveling and picking up the most exotic flora round the globe.
As you walk down the cobbled pathway, you can see a well-maintained backyard teaming with plant life. From Japanese maple, Chinese elm, South African euphrasia and Howarthia to Indonesian carmona macrophylla, he has over 500 plant species. Amidst well-pruned bonsais and succulents, miniature earthen horses and bells look explicitly beautiful.
BrigBewli says, “One needs knowledge of horticulture techniques and creativity to pursue such obsession.” He has eight to 12 years old plants. He has named a few bonsai arrangements like forest, Antarctic. Brig Bewli’s favourite one is the arrangement is Antarctica that has black rocks from Antarctica that he has personally. While wife Amarjeet Kaur relishes fruits of miniature kachnar – Paracantha.
“I have brought up all these plants in my own hands.” Amarjeet adds, “The way he is engrossed with greenery I prefer not to interfere.” That’s her perfect way of supporting him.
But she can’t help complaining about Brig Bewli’s green rage. Whenever they escape for a holiday retreat, she wants to shop around the malls. Somehow, even in an alien city hubby manages to find people mad about gardening. On top of it, whether his new friends like it or not, Brig Bewli will scissor their plants and guide them on plant up keeping. On this, Brig Bewli says, “Unheathy plants upset me.” Be it Bangalore’s Lal Bag or Calcutta Botanical garden, he has tipped gardeners all over. After a small walk across the beautiful green patch at Bewli villa we headed towards his drawing room.
The moment you step in, a life size carved starfish, hung on white plastered wall, will steal your attention. Look down and Greb, an aquatic bird with prominent beak, resting along with camel and six-feet dinosaur are staring at you. Now turn around and you will find snakes climbing the wall.
Amarjeet Kaur told ToC that artifacts have also been carved by Brig Bewli. This master of varied traits is inspired by nature. At 54, CS Bewli says, “Passion knows no age.” Be it gardening or carving, he wants to know A to Z about it. He had been scarping the masterpieces with sharp glass himself.
After screening through the wooden marvels, we move to his terrace where succulents are safely housed on wrought iron stand. Some plants are waiting in shade to grow. Then, they will be exposed to direct sunlight.
Passionate CS Bewli feels that there is not sufficient space in one kanal house. While Amarjeet thanks God that after staying on second floor of a flat they have been blessed with own house.


BONSAI

Pursuing a hobby is considered to be the best way to beat hectic urbane lifestyle. And it’s all the more great if you are indulging in the living art form, Bonsai. Countering the space limitations, it offers a respite to man’s desire to stay close to nature by replicating the beauty of mature trees and landscape to narrow confines.
With the spurt in flat-accommodation in green and clean Chandigarh, the bonsai culture is gaining popular. Among a total of 200 members of Bonsai Club (India) 100 are from the tricity itself.
Using twisted wires and pruning skills on roots, trunk and branches, the practitioners of Bonsai art create visual delights like cascading Bougainvilleas, shaping it near to it’s natural mold. Lot of hard work and patience goes into it. Over a span of two-three years, as the plant matures into a full bonsai, bearing flowers. “The creator experiences immense joy similar to that of a parent feels when his baby starts walking,” says horticulture expert and landscape artiste Anil Kaushik. He is the one to initiate the Bonsai Club six years back. He calls Bonsai the art of re-creating nature as miniature.
Kaushik says, “Man’s innate creativity has evolved and honed various forms of art which include landscaping and making of Bonsai.”
Starting with the abc of growing bonsai making, the club imparts training to amateurs. Weekly meeting are held where the members bring their bonsais to practically discuss the problems. Kaushik says, “Any person with some basic knowledge of plants and aesthetic sense can make the beautiful living art form. But it requires lot of patience.”
Tips on bonsai:
Plants with small leaves and woody trunk, makes good bonsai.
Use a proper shallow container. Its depth should be as much as the thickness of the trunk.
Trunk should flare at the base and taper gradually from base to apex, giving the aged looks.
There should be more foliage behind the trunk than in front to give it greater depth.
Tree should never lean back, and should bow forward.

WINTER GARDENING
Anything to feast eyes on greenery! To see fresh green leaves or tiny leaves coming out of stalks in fog Chandigarhians love to dare gardening in this piercing winter. With lush green garden and vibrant flowers decking the lawns, gardening makes as a popular hobby.
As in winter you risk frost, it's time to bring in some of the non-hardy plants so that they can over winter indoors. But before you start digging up your plants and plunking them in pots in front of your window first get geared up with the best winter garden fertilizer, compost. An avid gardener who has been taking care of green patches round the city for more than a decade, Ramesh Chauhan says, “Compost provides minerals to the plant. Avoid putting too much artificial nitrogen fertilizer, as it will increase the plant growth. This new growth is very much affected when the temperature goes down.”
Chauhan quips, “Choose vigorously growing, healthy plants to bring inside. Dig them up carefully, get as much of the root mass as possible. Place the plant in a good size pot with ample of soil.” Older leaves of most garden plants turn yellow as they're moved inside. “Prune them,” gardener Ramesh suggests, “it will encourage fresh leaves to shoot out.” Moderate watering is required, but not more than once a week in this chill. “Over watering can act as the harsh killer of houseplants so test the soil before you water,” he adds.
And, beware of bugs! Indoor plants are more prone to bugs, as plants hide unwanted stowaways when brought in. “While plants are outside, pests are controlled by natural biological controls but as soon as you bring them indoors. Check all leaves. If it looks like you have some insect activity, spray pesticides, especially underside.”
Know, for potted plants, make sure to lift them out of the pot and check for slugs. Flick them out before you place your plant back.

CACTUS SHOW
Spikiness and structural marvel beauty of cactus carved in perfect symmetry aesthetically inspires a connoisseur. None other plant, besides cactus, has the distinction to thrive in faulty ecosystem, be it barren lands, uneven hillocks, snow clad mountain, arid deserted valleys and gorges, hyper saline lagoons or stinking marshy lands.
To celebrate the variety of over 65 genus of cacti, the National Cactus and Succulent Society of India and HUDA organised 28th Annual Show of Cactus and Other Succulent Plants.
Out of around 1600 magnificent entries competing for prickly contest, judges, a majority of who were industrialists, decided to award chairperson Ravi Lal’s plants as both the ‘Queen of the show and Best flowering succulent’ and president Brig CS Bewli’s green-baby as ‘King of the show.’ Each sub-categories like mammillaria, rebutia, ariocarpus, parodia and notocactus announced its own separate winners.
Nurseries across India: Nanital, Kalingpong and Patiala, displayed exotic colourful cacti assortment, nominally priced at Rs 25 onwards, at the spiny show in Lajpat Rai Bhawan. One of the members, Mrs Popli said that years back when I first visited the succulent exhibition, I had fallen for the thorny marvel. So, she decided to become member of the society.

Delay of four days in holding the Annual Chrysanthemum Show has come as a blow to the participants as it has lowered their chances of winning in various categories. Most of the participants are blaming the Municipal Corporation for sacrificing the interests of the growers `to accommodate chief guests.’’
OP Sood, an authority on the subject, a seasoned judge at various flower shows and first in the city to organise Chrysanthemum show in 1964 says,`` The Chrysanthemum show should be on first Sunday of December because that is the time when these flowers peak. Considering the fact that if centre of the flower blooms, it gets disqualified from the show, lot of participants are going to get disappointed with changed schedule of the show.’’
The delay by a few days has dampened the spirit of some avid participants since after toiling hard and sweating over nurturing the beautiful chrysanthemums for months, they believe a week’s delay can affect their chances of winning in the show. The delay comes in wake of President’s visit to the city on December 9 for High Court’s Golden Jubilee Celeberations.
Horticulture inspector, Manu Singh of Chandigarh Housing Board that has grown over 900 flowering grafts, is bothered about the results, due to the postponement of the show. “Through horticulture we can adjust the flowering period by a week or fortnight. As the date of competition was announced much in advance, a fortnight ago we kicked off all preparations. But with the delay, 50 per cent plantations will be in no state to compete, especially, double-ball and spider chrysanthemums,” he says.
To make every plant blossom at its best on D-day, the gardener takes extra care and moves in a phased manner. He increases watering frequency, keep plants in direct sunlight and adds fertilizers.
Industrialist Varinder Sharma who loves nurturing flower-beds, agrees that the delay is bad for the participant but not for public. After winning the king of the show in 1999 at the national level, he has been included in the panel of judges at the national platter, but he continues to compete at his home ground every year. “A lot goes into cultivating the flower king – chrysanthemum. We were all set to move forward. The unexpected delay could have adverse effects. Few plants may start withering by December 12, the judgement day of the show.”
However, some are more optimistic like Neeraj Pasricha from the Regional Institute of Cooperative Management. “Preparations are on in full swing. With experience and wisdom, we have mastered the art of gardening. Some beautiful flowers will be tainted but a few days change in schedule will not have much of an effect.”

BEST BUYS IN EUROPE ON CHRISTMAS

In December, Christmas markets across Europe emerge in a colourful array of booths offering ornaments, unique gifts, sweets, sausages, and hot-spiced wine. Often carolers and musicians can be found milling among the crowds and adding to the holiday atmosphere. The countries of Eastern Europe join in this festive tradition, providing their own regional flavor to outdoor Christmas shopping.
Some of the most famous markets have been running since the Middle Ages, and today they can draw upwards of two million visitors during December. Their appeal is simple: stress-free shopping in a traditional, festive environment, with a few mugs of mulled wine to help you along your way.
Town Hall, Vienna The ‘Christkindlmarkt’ on the square in front of the magnificent Town Hall is Vienna's classic Christmas market. It is one of the best-known and most visited in Europe, attracting millions of visitors to its rows of wooden huts leading up to the Hall. The park surrounding the market is one of the highlights, its trees decorated with themed lights, shaped like hearts or gingerbread men.
The market itself has a central row of stalls selling handcrafted decorations and arty bits and pieces, as well as deliciously scented natural beeswax candles. The Vokshalle, within the Town Hall, is home to a daily workshop for kids, where parents can drop them off to make presents and bake Christmas cookies. Wooden figurines in NurembergNuremberg market is lavish with almost two hundred stalls crammed into the cobbled square on the slope beneath the Frauenkirche. It’s popularly called the regional centre for trading handmade wood figurines. It has a rather odd tradition: every two years a new ‘Christ child’ is appointed, a young man or woman who opens the market and rushes around town spreading Christmas cheer, dressed in elaborate gold and white and sporting a large golden crown.
Eccentric traditions aside, the market is best known for its food, which includes several stalls selling steaming Glühwein and grilled Nürnberger Bratwurst, delicious thin and spicy sausages. In the evening, the place is softly lit with hundreds of tiny lights, and bands arrive to entertain the punters – you’ll hear anything from brass bands to live jazz. Glass baubles Dresden
Dresden’s Christmas market is the oldest in Germany. One giant 3,000 kg Stollen cake is paraded around Dresden as part of the festival, presided over by a glamorous ‘Stollenmädchen’ – a ‘Miss Cake’.
The market is pretty and old fashioned, with around 250 stalls selling strictly traditional wares. It has better shopping than elsewhere though, with regional craftsmen flocking to the area to peddle their wares. Some good buys include delicate, hand-blown glass trinkets from the town of Lauscha; hand-thrown and -fired ceramics from Saxony painted in bright blue and white; and local ‘Blaudruck’ – white-and-blue printed cloth. chocolates and wine BrusselsThe Grand-Place, Brussels’ commercial hub, famous for the lavishly carved facades of its guild-houses. Strings of lights cascade down from the centre, over the little chalet-style wooden huts that cluster around the square, each representing a different European country. There are some good food stalls, though – alongside mulled wine are stands dishing out plump French olives, mountains of Belgian chocolates, steaming plates of moules or steamed snails, jars of preserved fruits and ‘speculoos’, hard gingerbread shaped like Father Christmas.
The Fish Market is transformed into a temporary ice rink in December, making it a big attraction for locals. From December 23, many of the stalls switch hands, and the market becomes more of a gastronomic affair. At Marienplatz in Munich
Focal point of Munich is Marienplatz, the heart of the old-centre, flanked by the grand neo-gothic Town Hall that’s filled with hundreds of stalls in the run-up to Christmas. Over thousands gather in the square to watch 30-metre-high Christmas tree light up. Over 140 stalls are set up in the square, selling hand-carved wooden Christmas decorations, glass baubles, jewellery, arts and crafts.
Behind the main market is the Crib Market, where traditional nativity figures from Bavaria and Austria are for sale. Every evening, Alpine choirs and brass bands perform from the Town Hall balcony, while locals stream to the food stalls for an after-work plate of hot potato cakes and a mug of Glühwein. There is a child crèche in the town hall, and the ‘Heavenly Workshop’ is a free area for children to paint, make Christmas cookies and dress up as angels.

BEST BUYS IN EUROPE ON CHRISTMAS

In December, Christmas markets across Europe emerge in a colourful array of booths offering ornaments, unique gifts, sweets, sausages, and hot-spiced wine. Often carolers and musicians can be found milling among the crowds and adding to the holiday atmosphere. The countries of Eastern Europe join in this festive tradition, providing their own regional flavor to outdoor Christmas shopping.
Some of the most famous markets have been running since the Middle Ages, and today they can draw upwards of two million visitors during December. Their appeal is simple: stress-free shopping in a traditional, festive environment, with a few mugs of mulled wine to help you along your way.
Town Hall, Vienna The ‘Christkindlmarkt’ on the square in front of the magnificent Town Hall is Vienna's classic Christmas market. It is one of the best-known and most visited in Europe, attracting millions of visitors to its rows of wooden huts leading up to the Hall. The park surrounding the market is one of the highlights, its trees decorated with themed lights, shaped like hearts or gingerbread men.
The market itself has a central row of stalls selling handcrafted decorations and arty bits and pieces, as well as deliciously scented natural beeswax candles. The Vokshalle, within the Town Hall, is home to a daily workshop for kids, where parents can drop them off to make presents and bake Christmas cookies. Wooden figurines in NurembergNuremberg market is lavish with almost two hundred stalls crammed into the cobbled square on the slope beneath the Frauenkirche. It’s popularly called the regional centre for trading handmade wood figurines. It has a rather odd tradition: every two years a new ‘Christ child’ is appointed, a young man or woman who opens the market and rushes around town spreading Christmas cheer, dressed in elaborate gold and white and sporting a large golden crown.
Eccentric traditions aside, the market is best known for its food, which includes several stalls selling steaming Glühwein and grilled Nürnberger Bratwurst, delicious thin and spicy sausages. In the evening, the place is softly lit with hundreds of tiny lights, and bands arrive to entertain the punters – you’ll hear anything from brass bands to live jazz. Glass baubles Dresden
Dresden’s Christmas market is the oldest in Germany. One giant 3,000 kg Stollen cake is paraded around Dresden as part of the festival, presided over by a glamorous ‘Stollenmädchen’ – a ‘Miss Cake’.
The market is pretty and old fashioned, with around 250 stalls selling strictly traditional wares. It has better shopping than elsewhere though, with regional craftsmen flocking to the area to peddle their wares. Some good buys include delicate, hand-blown glass trinkets from the town of Lauscha; hand-thrown and -fired ceramics from Saxony painted in bright blue and white; and local ‘Blaudruck’ – white-and-blue printed cloth. chocolates and wine BrusselsThe Grand-Place, Brussels’ commercial hub, famous for the lavishly carved facades of its guild-houses. Strings of lights cascade down from the centre, over the little chalet-style wooden huts that cluster around the square, each representing a different European country. There are some good food stalls, though – alongside mulled wine are stands dishing out plump French olives, mountains of Belgian chocolates, steaming plates of moules or steamed snails, jars of preserved fruits and ‘speculoos’, hard gingerbread shaped like Father Christmas.
The Fish Market is transformed into a temporary ice rink in December, making it a big attraction for locals. From December 23, many of the stalls switch hands, and the market becomes more of a gastronomic affair. At Marienplatz in Munich
Focal point of Munich is Marienplatz, the heart of the old-centre, flanked by the grand neo-gothic Town Hall that’s filled with hundreds of stalls in the run-up to Christmas. Over thousands gather in the square to watch 30-metre-high Christmas tree light up. Over 140 stalls are set up in the square, selling hand-carved wooden Christmas decorations, glass baubles, jewellery, arts and crafts.
Behind the main market is the Crib Market, where traditional nativity figures from Bavaria and Austria are for sale. Every evening, Alpine choirs and brass bands perform from the Town Hall balcony, while locals stream to the food stalls for an after-work plate of hot potato cakes and a mug of Glühwein. There is a child crèche in the town hall, and the ‘Heavenly Workshop’ is a free area for children to paint, make Christmas cookies and dress up as angels.

BEST BUYS IN EUROPE ON CHRISTMAS

In December, Christmas markets across Europe emerge in a colourful array of booths offering ornaments, unique gifts, sweets, sausages, and hot-spiced wine. Often carolers and musicians can be found milling among the crowds and adding to the holiday atmosphere. The countries of Eastern Europe join in this festive tradition, providing their own regional flavor to outdoor Christmas shopping.
Some of the most famous markets have been running since the Middle Ages, and today they can draw upwards of two million visitors during December. Their appeal is simple: stress-free shopping in a traditional, festive environment, with a few mugs of mulled wine to help you along your way.
Town Hall, Vienna The ‘Christkindlmarkt’ on the square in front of the magnificent Town Hall is Vienna's classic Christmas market. It is one of the best-known and most visited in Europe, attracting millions of visitors to its rows of wooden huts leading up to the Hall. The park surrounding the market is one of the highlights, its trees decorated with themed lights, shaped like hearts or gingerbread men.
The market itself has a central row of stalls selling handcrafted decorations and arty bits and pieces, as well as deliciously scented natural beeswax candles. The Vokshalle, within the Town Hall, is home to a daily workshop for kids, where parents can drop them off to make presents and bake Christmas cookies. Wooden figurines in NurembergNuremberg market is lavish with almost two hundred stalls crammed into the cobbled square on the slope beneath the Frauenkirche. It’s popularly called the regional centre for trading handmade wood figurines. It has a rather odd tradition: every two years a new ‘Christ child’ is appointed, a young man or woman who opens the market and rushes around town spreading Christmas cheer, dressed in elaborate gold and white and sporting a large golden crown.
Eccentric traditions aside, the market is best known for its food, which includes several stalls selling steaming Glühwein and grilled Nürnberger Bratwurst, delicious thin and spicy sausages. In the evening, the place is softly lit with hundreds of tiny lights, and bands arrive to entertain the punters – you’ll hear anything from brass bands to live jazz. Glass baubles Dresden
Dresden’s Christmas market is the oldest in Germany. One giant 3,000 kg Stollen cake is paraded around Dresden as part of the festival, presided over by a glamorous ‘Stollenmädchen’ – a ‘Miss Cake’.
The market is pretty and old fashioned, with around 250 stalls selling strictly traditional wares. It has better shopping than elsewhere though, with regional craftsmen flocking to the area to peddle their wares. Some good buys include delicate, hand-blown glass trinkets from the town of Lauscha; hand-thrown and -fired ceramics from Saxony painted in bright blue and white; and local ‘Blaudruck’ – white-and-blue printed cloth. chocolates and wine BrusselsThe Grand-Place, Brussels’ commercial hub, famous for the lavishly carved facades of its guild-houses. Strings of lights cascade down from the centre, over the little chalet-style wooden huts that cluster around the square, each representing a different European country. There are some good food stalls, though – alongside mulled wine are stands dishing out plump French olives, mountains of Belgian chocolates, steaming plates of moules or steamed snails, jars of preserved fruits and ‘speculoos’, hard gingerbread shaped like Father Christmas.
The Fish Market is transformed into a temporary ice rink in December, making it a big attraction for locals. From December 23, many of the stalls switch hands, and the market becomes more of a gastronomic affair. At Marienplatz in Munich
Focal point of Munich is Marienplatz, the heart of the old-centre, flanked by the grand neo-gothic Town Hall that’s filled with hundreds of stalls in the run-up to Christmas. Over thousands gather in the square to watch 30-metre-high Christmas tree light up. Over 140 stalls are set up in the square, selling hand-carved wooden Christmas decorations, glass baubles, jewellery, arts and crafts.
Behind the main market is the Crib Market, where traditional nativity figures from Bavaria and Austria are for sale. Every evening, Alpine choirs and brass bands perform from the Town Hall balcony, while locals stream to the food stalls for an after-work plate of hot potato cakes and a mug of Glühwein. There is a child crèche in the town hall, and the ‘Heavenly Workshop’ is a free area for children to paint, make Christmas cookies and dress up as angels.

ARUN GANDHI

This dusky criss-crossed face bearing oval spectacles atop gray beard subtly radiates serenity and calmness. This septuagenarian is sure to appear familiar to every Indian. After a closer look at him, one cannot help uttering, “He reminds Bapu.” Well! No marks for that as this suited-booted gentleman, named Arun, is grandson of the father of our nation, Mahatma Gandhi.
Spending most of his childhood at Gandhi Ashram in South africa, Arun only had privilege of spending two years (1946-47) with Gandhiji, when his parents Manilal and Sushila brought him to homeland at the age of 12. Arun loves to share his fond memories of grandpa. “I lived in awe of him. People would wait for hours by roadsides for a glimpse of him, recalls Arun who loves to share my treasure of thoughts with youngsters, spreading Gandhiji’s vibrant philosophy. But he is not convinced about accepting it as a dogma. “Charkha brought a movement before independence because it supported hand-to-mouth rural India under Britishers. Now in independent India it’s obsolete,” says Arun.
The most cherished memory that he recalls is assisting Bapu in raising funds for women, childern and harijan upliftment projects by selling Mahatma Gandhi’s autograph for Rs 5 during morning assembly.
Today walking on the footsteps of Bapu by continuing with the non-violent movement wife Sunanda Gandhi and Arun travel all-round the world talking non-violence.
Presently, Arun is living in USA and is director of MK Gandhi Institute for Non-violence there. Ask him why he chose to open the institute on foreign land, and he rejoins, “As Bapu was sure India would not believe in non-violence after independence unless it comes in western packaging.”
Arun went to Mississippi University on fellowship to study racial discrimination as he himself suffered at its hand in South Africa. Discovering who he is….there people invited him for lecturing on non-violence. This ingnited the urge in this ex-journalist to set-up an institute teaching non-violence. “I had no money for the institute. To raise funds I parted with Bapus letters written to my parents. I asked the then Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi to buy it but he replied: Not interested in your project,” regrets says Arun who sold the treasure offshore.
Arun who feels India has emerged as economic power but lacks when it comes to economic and political equality, many-a-times wanted to come in forefront in politics but Mahatma Ganmdhi’s request to abstain from politically exploiting his name, held him back.
Though Arun feels a great responsibility as a Gandhi descendent, yet is no longer at comfort mother tongue while delivering a speech. This proud and humble Gandhi, as he liberally addresses himself says he has got these traits as legacy from Bapu. Arun believes passive violence is more dangerous than active physical violence.


BOX
On Thursday, he was in Chandigarh to participate in the ongoing ‘Peace-City Chandigarh’ campaign at Dev Samaj College of Education, Sector 36. He awarded Dr KBS Dhillon Memorial Shantidoot Puraskar to principal Karan Singh Jaglan of GMSSS Sector-33 here, for spreading Gandhian values along with five other educationist practicing virtues of peace and non-violence. They were: Dr ML Gupta of Punjab engineering College, prof Ashok Kumar of DAV College, Dr Jyoti Khanna of ev Samaj College of Education, Amarjit Singh of GMSSS, Sector 19 and Arvinder kaur of St. Soldiers International School.

ARTIST SECTION

His greatest fantasy is to sculpt a mountain rock in Himalayas as Stone Age inspires him. Don’t be astonished, he is not a tribal or caveman. Living in sci-fi era, artist Narinder Thakur says that Gen Y hanging round in rugged jeans, guys decked up with jazzy ornaments and gals getting body pierced all over, it’s revival of the long gone cultural era. “Isn’t it more of Harppan tribal trend that we are following?” inquires the artist. And, that’s what he tries to depict clannish ethnicity in his masterpieces. “Nature attracts us to come back to it.”
This artist has made massive contribution in giving a facelift to city beautiful. To remind you about his ingenious masterpieces, lets start from murals on display around the city: Baithak in Kalgram, Chef 43 and Lakeview.
What starts as clean steady line emerges as magnum opus with a dash of colours added to it. After sketching on paper, Narinder freezes his ideas into life size sculptors, either in moulds of clay or wrought iron. He has even painted walls and larger than life murals.
Narinder has been broadly inspired by Picaso. Most of his sculptors depicts subtle beauty concealed in human anatomy. Talking about naked characters created by Narinder, he says, “My characters enjoy freedom. They are always in open.”

II.
Devender Singh, popularly known as ‘the man with golden brush’, defines painting as the poetry of colours. This versatile artist carried affluent Punjabi cultural beyond the realms of Punjab and has won applauds of the international patrons of art.
A sparkling replica of Harmandar Sahib in gold and silver, his marvellous creation, has been put on display at the renowned Smithsonian Museum in Washington, and now he is about to accomplish crafting the second model.
Besides, his numerous well-crafted paintings depicting mundane jobs of rural Punjab, mythology, modern and abstract art and episodes from Sikh history have found place in museums of Singapore, UK and US. “I have painted 20 ft x 40 ft life size paintings for Singapore museum,” Devender says.
Natural lexis can be seen all over his picturesque pastel collection. “I love to brush a blend of abstract and realistic impression. Nature inspires me to trace the genuine splendour. I explored the interiors of Punjab to convey the factual expression in oil. Punjabi mutiras (young women) spinning charkha, roaming and winnowing the fields motivated me to map out the unique beauty,” says Devender.
With the elements in sober pastels his golden brush has also silhouetted women. He adds, “I was always determined to survive on my hobby-turned profession. It’s strange that during my days of struggle I had to slough to fetch work. Now when I am satisfied with the little I do, people chase me to take on assignments.” Work never eluded Devender ever since his first collection of paintings on Sikh women was bought by a nationalized bank for their calendar in 1972. He received his formal education at Bombay, Amritsar, Ludhiana & Chandigarh but was initiated into the world of art by his accomplished father. “I inherited the aesthetic artistic ability from my father, Sewak Singh, who was a commercial painter at Bombay,” says Devender Singh
Presently, he is working on two contrasting series: ‘ancient era’ and ‘mankind 20 years hence.’ The crux of his research is: “With increasing fondness for murals and splash of greenery at every nook and corner of sky-high buildings, the cemented world is turning back to stoned era.”
This man boasts of free flowing lines that liberally meet to emerge as faces. What’s peculiar about them is that each face wears a plastic smile, hiding grim emotions expressed in eyes.
Thakur titters, “I use natural flavour in my artwork.” This artist with electrifying imaginative thoughts, is born and brought up in Chandigarh. Though he inherited inventive mindset from his father Laxman Das, he believes it’s all in air. He says, “Le Corbusier has gifted the city with perfect surroundings to dwell an arty mindset.”
His greatest fantasy is to sculpt a mountain rock in Himalayas as Stone Age inspires him. Don’t be astonished, he is not a tribal or caveman. Living in sci-fi era, artist Narinder Thakur says that Gen Y hanging round in rugged jeans, guys decked up with jazzy ornaments and gals getting body pierced all over, it’s revival of the long gone cultural era. “Isn’t it more of Harppan tribal trend that we are following?” inquires the artist. And, that’s what he tries to depict clannish ethnicity in his masterpieces. “Nature attracts us to come back to it.”
This artist has made massive contribution in giving a facelift to city beautiful. To remind you about his ingenious masterpieces, lets start from murals on display around the city: Baithak in Kalgram, Chef 43 and Lakeview.
What starts as clean steady line emerges as magnum opus with a dash of colours added to it. After sketching on paper, Narinder freezes his ideas into life size sculptors, either in moulds of clay or wrought iron. He has even painted walls and larger than life murals.
Narinder has been broadly inspired by Picaso. Most of his sculptors depicts subtle beauty concealed in human anatomy. Talking about naked characters created by Narinder, he says, “My characters enjoy freedom. They are always in open.”
Presently, he is working on two contrasting series: ‘ancient era’ and ‘mankind 20 years hence.’ The crux of his research is: “With increasing fondness for murals and splash of greenery at every nook and corner of sky-high buildings, the cemented world is turning back to stoned era.”
This man boasts of free flowing lines that liberally meet to emerge as faces. What’s peculiar about them is that each face wears a plastic smile, hiding grim emotions expressed in eyes.
Thakur titters, “I use natural flavour in my artwork.” This artist with electrifying imaginative thoughts, is born and brought up in Chandigarh. Though he inherited inventive mindset from his father Laxman Das, he believes it’s all in air. He says, “Le Corbusier has gifted the city with perfect surroundings to dwell an arty mindset.”

ARTIST SECTION

His greatest fantasy is to sculpt a mountain rock in Himalayas as Stone Age inspires him. Don’t be astonished, he is not a tribal or caveman. Living in sci-fi era, artist Narinder Thakur says that Gen Y hanging round in rugged jeans, guys decked up with jazzy ornaments and gals getting body pierced all over, it’s revival of the long gone cultural era. “Isn’t it more of Harppan tribal trend that we are following?” inquires the artist. And, that’s what he tries to depict clannish ethnicity in his masterpieces. “Nature attracts us to come back to it.”
This artist has made massive contribution in giving a facelift to city beautiful. To remind you about his ingenious masterpieces, lets start from murals on display around the city: Baithak in Kalgram, Chef 43 and Lakeview.
What starts as clean steady line emerges as magnum opus with a dash of colours added to it. After sketching on paper, Narinder freezes his ideas into life size sculptors, either in moulds of clay or wrought iron. He has even painted walls and larger than life murals.
Narinder has been broadly inspired by Picaso. Most of his sculptors depicts subtle beauty concealed in human anatomy. Talking about naked characters created by Narinder, he says, “My characters enjoy freedom. They are always in open.”
Presently, he is working on two contrasting series: ‘ancient era’ and ‘mankind 20 years hence.’ The crux of his research is: “With increasing fondness for murals and splash of greenery at every nook and corner of sky-high buildings, the cemented world is turning back to stoned era.”
This man boasts of free flowing lines that liberally meet to emerge as faces. What’s peculiar about them is that each face wears a plastic smile, hiding grim emotions expressed in eyes.
Thakur titters, “I use natural flavour in my artwork.” This artist with electrifying imaginative thoughts, is born and brought up in Chandigarh. Though he inherited inventive mindset from his father Laxman Das, he believes it’s all in air. He says, “Le Corbusier has gifted the city with perfect surroundings to dwell an arty mindset.”
His greatest fantasy is to sculpt a mountain rock in Himalayas as Stone Age inspires him. Don’t be astonished, he is not a tribal or caveman. Living in sci-fi era, artist Narinder Thakur says that Gen Y hanging round in rugged jeans, guys decked up with jazzy ornaments and gals getting body pierced all over, it’s revival of the long gone cultural era. “Isn’t it more of Harppan tribal trend that we are following?” inquires the artist. And, that’s what he tries to depict clannish ethnicity in his masterpieces. “Nature attracts us to come back to it.”
This artist has made massive contribution in giving a facelift to city beautiful. To remind you about his ingenious masterpieces, lets start from murals on display around the city: Baithak in Kalgram, Chef 43 and Lakeview.
What starts as clean steady line emerges as magnum opus with a dash of colours added to it. After sketching on paper, Narinder freezes his ideas into life size sculptors, either in moulds of clay or wrought iron. He has even painted walls and larger than life murals.
Narinder has been broadly inspired by Picaso. Most of his sculptors depicts subtle beauty concealed in human anatomy. Talking about naked characters created by Narinder, he says, “My characters enjoy freedom. They are always in open.”
Presently, he is working on two contrasting series: ‘ancient era’ and ‘mankind 20 years hence.’ The crux of his research is: “With increasing fondness for murals and splash of greenery at every nook and corner of sky-high buildings, the cemented world is turning back to stoned era.”
This man boasts of free flowing lines that liberally meet to emerge as faces. What’s peculiar about them is that each face wears a plastic smile, hiding grim emotions expressed in eyes.
Thakur titters, “I use natural flavour in my artwork.” This artist with electrifying imaginative thoughts, is born and brought up in Chandigarh. Though he inherited inventive mindset from his father Laxman Das, he believes it’s all in air. He says, “Le Corbusier has gifted the city with perfect surroundings to dwell an arty mindset.”

AIR HOSTESS

Young city denizens seem to be penchant about the aviation industry. Nattily draped in western formals – tidy shirts with skirts/formal trousers and a scarf around collar - gals and gals are eagerly attending training session on personality development, grooming, English speaking, swimming, aviation and foreign language at the airhostess / steward training academies.
One of the aviation academy students, Neha Juneja, 17, said, “I am keen on being placed with an international airlines. I didn’t want to waste six-seven years on formal education. So, after higher secondary, I decided to join the training academy.”
Kamal Saini, the centre head of an airhostess training institute, said, “Good salary and glamour is what everyone longs and both these are attached to the aviation industry. We coach them in grooming sense and professional language to beat high-competitive rounds of interviews. Expertise counselling is a regular feature.” These academies also provide on-flight training to all aspiring students.
Manbir KaurVirk, a student preparing to join the industry, said, “I have gained tremendous confidence after jining the training academy. Public speaking is no more a challenge now.”
After the privatisation of lucrative aviation industry and relaxation in the retirement age have added to the craze. Branch Manager of another city-based airhostess training academy Mithlesh Singh said, “Surprisingly, the response from Chandigarh that’s famous for its psuedo-liberal mindset is not as great as Punjab and Himachal. From remote areas as Sirhind people are sending their daughters for training after higher secondary. Chandigarhians believe graduation is a must.” He adds, “It’s a remarkable change. We all read about a divorce case everyday. Probably, now people want daughters to make a career and be prepared to boldly face life through thick and thin.”
Somehow, aviation service industry is still considered to be a career for girl. The ratio of girls to boys joining the institute shows a major difference. Even these academies prefer calling them as the airhostess academies, though almost every commercial flight has stewards to attend to passengers. V

SPEED DATING

Fast track hip-hop generation loves to live in virtual reality. Shopping online, e-bookings and now even cupid online… Yupp! Speed dating has taken bachelors and spinsters ablaze.
Today’s young techies stuck with paucity of time prefer meeting eligible singles online. So, even if they appear to be too busy for bird watching, don’t think they are missing on romance. Who knows, while surfing they might be fixing a date online without wasting any time to confess the heart felt feelings.
It’s the latest fad to catch on offering an exciting and quick opportunity to meet singles in a non-pressured way. All it needs is sign in your details at one of the online speed dating sites. And, they will fix it all for you. Three minutes is all that it takes to discover someone not your type or a sweet heart.”The whole concept of going for pre-dates in a cool ambience seems exciting. Who knows you may land meeting your Miss Right,” chortles Rahul Arora, a city-based college student, who met his love interest Ria via speed dating.
He adds, “Three minutes to meet one person, ten people in 30 minutes, twenty if you do it twice a week and forty in a month. That is a lot of ‘new’ people to meet for any single person! Especially if you are checking out each of these 40 people you meet as the prospective love of your life, or for ‘friendship,” this statistics student adds. For every romantic meet, participants are asked to pen each experience. Within 48 hours the organizers let participants know which matches have been made, and give exchange contacts. Incase you don't meet someone special in the first time around, don’t be disheartened. the organiser has number of events lined up. Better luck next time!
Just substantiate your intuitive hunch. Sneha Sharma, a call centre employee quips, “Even in day-to-day life crushes we go by instinct. The same can be applied here.
On the D-day, after a few minutes interaction, if you hear lub-dud sound, stay on… Or else to move on to the next date.”

ADULT EDUCATION

What if instead of carrying heavy snap-knacks to school if students have to carry playing cards? I am not kidding. Play-way methods work better than mundane educational tools. They seem to be more welcoming even at the age of 30. Such educational tools not only work for kids but for adults too, proved two Germans Kim and Marga.
To fight the grave problem of illiteracy in India our these two friends have come up with an innovative idea of using a specially designed deck of playing cards with objectives of making illiterate slum women literate and self-reliant. This exciting method emerged as a primary tool to teach illiterate women under an adult literacy project at Colony no. 5 at a mutually agreed and fixed time convenient for learner.
Joginder Kaur, Supervisor of the ‘PLAY-LEARN & EDUCATE Adult literacy PROJECT’ says, “This programme is supported from Germany by Kim (Kumad) Jit Singh and Marga Buhrmann Singh both co-founders of Buhrmann Singh Creative Learning, Germany, and volunteers of a Chandigarh based non-government organisation.”
Interestingly, teachers addressed as coaches are themselves school going girl students. They are generally drop-outs of class VIIIth and Xth living in the neighbourhood. So, the students don’t have any jilts of going to school or getting caught by teacher as they rather relate to learners with a greater ease.
Keeping in mind the availability and convenience of the learner, each pays visit thrice a week in order to make them read Hindi language through the play-way method designed by Kim & Marga. Joginder says, “Every coach teaches 5 adults. Pesently 11 such girl coaches are working for the programme. Instead of the learners having to come to a classroom, their trained “teachers” go to them, to “teach” 121 (one to one).” Elaborating on the initiative co-ordinator Pramod Sharma says: “Old methods of promoting adult education have not shown as great results as this. It entices illiterate females and males to attend a school..” Sharing concern over illiteracy in rural, suburban and urban slums are not able to read and write in their own mother tongue Dr. Satinder Dhillon, principal Dev Samaj College, Sector 36 says, “The traditional educationists should ask themselves what might have gone wrong that despite numerous efforts put into eradication of illiteracy, almost a third of the population remains at the level of having to render “thumb signatures.”

PRIVATE DETECTIVES

Bond, just keep an eye…
Here is a 007 proposition to keep marital Bonds alive and firing. A city-based private eye agency is peddling the promise of vetting prospective bahus and damads before the knots are tied. The question is: will the saas buy the promise?
Major AS Lally, detective-in-chief of a detective agency, advises, “Apprehensive parents of eligible bachelors must get the anticipatory investigations done to be on the safer side. Most of the weddings performed after seeking pre-matrimonial investigations proved blissful.”
Paramjit Kaur (name changed), a mother seeking pre-matrimonial investigations for her daughter says, “Small post-marital tiffs can often lead to divorce. If pre-marital investigations help in averting them, I feel it’s a cheap bargain.”
IS Jangwal, a private detective, says, “We contact our probable clientele via SMS, e–mails or phone. We have our sound database that is being regularly updated.” However, he refused to disclose the source of the database.
But Pardeep Sharma, a private detective advises, “Don’t just rely on the agents who send SMS or e-mails. Before handing over a case, check the integrity of the agency. (You can probably hire another agent for this!) Many a times, the agents may demand money under the table as a cost of faithfulness.”
Even insecure and suspicious housewives hire private eye for spying. He narrates, “Recently we have solved a case where a housewife was suspicious of her husband, an insurance manager. After spying for a week, we found that her husband used to seek undue financial and physical pleasures through the company surveyors. We got everything recorded on camera and caught him red-handed. The insurance company suspended him and his wife divorced him.”
Pardeep says, “In a month we handle around 20 cases and majority of it involve couple in the age bracket of 30 to 40 years, seeking divorce.”
These local Sherlock Holmes charge according to facts and figures desired by a client and the time involved in a case. If a case involves local investigations, the fee comes to around Rs 10,000.