Delicious festive treats to check out in Kolkata this Sharodotsav.

From fine dining to quaint cafes, here are five restaurants in Kolkata that are running a Durga Puja special menu in Kolkata that you must try.

Durga Puja 2021 | Special Menus To Try in Kolkata

5 Kolkata Restaurants Treating You To A Durga Puja Feast

With beginnings rooted deep within Kolkata’s colonial history, Kumortuli transforms from a quaint colony to an artist’s paradise come Durga Puja. 

Kumartuli, a hub of sculptors and idol makers, transforms from a quaint colony to an artist’s paradise come Durga Puja. 

An Insider's Guide To Kumartuli: Kolkata's Historic Art Enclave

Durga Pujo 2021: An Insider’s Guide To Kolkata’s Historic Art Enclave, Kumortuli 

<p>Jisshu Sengupta is a household favourite amongst Bengalis. Warm, jovial, and funny, the host and anchor of Bengal’s most popular and super hit shows like <i>S</i>a Re Ga Ma Pa (Bangla), Super Singer, Dance Bangla Dance, Filmfare Awards (East), and more, the charming actor has wowed audiences with his talents that range from being an upbeat host, a passionate drummer and music lover, and a sensitive actor who has brought several roles to life. </p><p>As an actor, Sengupta has proved his credential not just in the Bengali film industry, but also in the Hindi and Telugu industries. The versatile actor, who completes 22 years in showbiz this year, will be seen next with superstar Salman Khan in Mahesh Manjrekar’s <i>Antim: The Final Truth</i>. <br>He’s also sharing the screen with South superstar Chiranjeevi in the upcoming action-drama <i>Acharya</i>. Sengupta has an enviable list of work with leading ladies such as Kangana Ranaut (<i>Manikarnika: The Queen of Jhansi</i>), Rani Mukherji (<i>Mardaani</i>), Vidya Balan (<i>Shakuntala Devi</i>) and Bhumi Pednekar (<i>Durgamati</i>). He made his Bollywood debut with Shyam Benegal’s award-winning film <i>Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose: The Forgotten Hero </i>in 2004. Having made his television debut in the late 90s, Sengupta's career in the Bengali industry had a serious step up when he collaborated with acclaimed filmmaker Rituparno Ghosh in movies like <i>Abohomaan</i>, <i>Noukadubi</i>, and <i>Shob Charitro Kalponik</i>. Commercial and critical success followed with <i>Jaatishwar </i>(2014), <i>Rajkahini </i>(2015), <i>Byomkesh O Chiriyakhana </i>(2016), <i>Zulfiqar </i>(2016), <i>Posto </i>(2017) and Aparna Sen’s neo-classic <i>Ghawre Bairey Aaj </i>(2019). </p><figure class="image"><img src="https://assets.zeezest.com/images/PROD_Jisshu-Sengupta-inside_1633772274341.jpg"><figcaption>Photographer: Tathagata Ghosh</figcaption></figure><p><br>We caught up with the quintessential Bengali heartthrob and asked him about his plans for the upcoming Durga Puja, a festival that is close to his heart, and one that he always celebrates in his hometown Kolkata. <i><strong>Edited excerpts.</strong></i></p><h2>1. What are your plans for Durga Puja this year?</h2><p>Like all other years, I will spend all the five days and evenings of Durga Puja at the <i>parar puja</i> (local neighbourhood). Even before I was born, my mother used to be an integral part of the puja in our neighbourhood at Lake Terrace in South Kolkata. I grew up to take over my mother’s legacy and that has become an integral part of my puja celebrations. But unlike other years, this year I hope to have a small yet great puja, and pray for the world to heal from this pandemic.</p><figure class="media"><oembed url="https://www.instagram.com/p/CINyW_IA9_6/"></oembed></figure><h2>2. How was Durga Puja celebration like in your growing up days in Kolkata?</h2><p>My most enduring memory of my growing up days during the Durga Puja was first going from house to house to collect <i>chanda </i>(donation). Then it would be the day of bringing the Goddess Maa Durga idol home. I remember finishing dinner at home really quick in this excitement. Also, I would take part in the <i>dhunuchi naach </i>competitions and win them on most occasions. The fun had during my childhood puja days is something that cannot be replaced. I still have vivid memories of my growing up years in the <i>para puja </i>and they come rushing back every year during the festival.</p><h2>3. If you have to take someone from out of Kolkata on a food trail in the city during the Pujas, what would that include?</h2><p>Honestly, I would take them just to the <i>para puja</i> and feed them at the pandal. I don't think anything else would do justice to the delicious food that is cooked there; the bhog is cooked every day by the ladies of our neighbourhood and it’s the tastiest meal you can have.</p><p>AlsoRead0</p><h2>4. Name your favourite puja pandals in Kolkata and Mumbai (now that you spend time here).</h2><p>I don’t leave my pandal if I am in Kolkata during the Pujas. Our Puja is known as Lake Sarbojonin Durgotsav in Lake Terrace. Although I try my best not to shoot around those days, since I work simultaneously in three different industries, it’s getting hard to be able to do so. I haven’t spent time in Mumbai during Durga Puja yet. But the festivities are the same everywhere. The emotion that we carry from our childhood goes with us wherever we go during the pujas.</p><figure class="media"><oembed url="https://www.instagram.com/p/CLBziyQgQEA/"></oembed></figure><h2>5. What are some of the must-do activities and must-haves for Jisshu during the pujas?</h2><p><strong>New clothes:</strong> Not at all.</p><p><strong>Eating out:</strong> Always at the neighbourhood pandal.</p><p><strong>Adda with friends:</strong> Of course, all my childhood friends in and out of Kolkata and across the country come over, and we hang out together 24/7 during these five days</p><p><strong>Listening to Puja albums:</strong> Yes, it’s a childhood memory. Unfortunately, we don’t find any puja albums now.</p><h2>6. Name one dish you can cook to save a life.</h2><p>It has to be the quintessential bong comfort food—<i>Aloo sheddo </i>(boiled potato), <i>dim sheddo </i>(boiled egg), <i>bhaat </i>(steamed rice).</p><p>AlsoRead1</p><h2>7. One dish you can cook to impress someone.</h2><p>I haven’t really tried to impress anyone with my cooking yet (laughs)!</p><figure class="media"><oembed url="https://www.instagram.com/p/CIVjv4TAX5_/"></oembed></figure><h2>8. You have had a good run as a leading actor in Bengali movies and a television host. You have also acted in big-budget Hindi and Telugu movies. How do you juggle your time between the three industries?</h2><p>My manager takes care of that. I wake up, pack my bags, reach the airport, land at the destination and shoot. That's how I crawl through the most hectic schedules and days.</p><figure class="image"><img src="https://assets.zeezest.com/images/PROD_Jisshu-Vidya_1633772295055.jpg"></figure><h2>10. Your top favourites:</h2><p><strong>Favourite actor:</strong> Morgan Freeman and Robert De Niro</p><p><strong>Favourite director:</strong> Oh! it’s a long list…</p><p><strong>Favourite genre of movies:</strong> Action and thriller</p><p><strong>Favourite role essayed by you so far:</strong> It’s yet to come!</p><p><strong>Favourite co-actor:</strong> Vidya Balan, hands down!</p><p><strong>Favourite cuisine:</strong> Chinese and biryani</p><p><strong>Favourite restaurant:</strong> Swiggy (laughs)</p><p><strong>Favourite holiday destination:</strong> Switzerland</p><p><strong>Favourite places on your bucket list:</strong> Vatican City, Istanbul, Las Vegas</p><figure class="table"><table><tbody><tr><td><h2>Jisshu Sengupta's upcoming films</h2><h3>HINDI</h3><p>Antim: The Final Truth</p><h3>TELUGU</h3><p>Acharya</p><h3>BENGALI</h3><p>Baba Baby O</p></td></tr></tbody></table></figure>

In a chat, the busy star reminisces about his childhood memories and the tradition of celebrating the festival in Kolkata despite work schedules across three movie industries.

The host of superhit shows like Sa Re Ga Ma Pa (Bangla), Super Singer, Dance Bangla Dance, and the quintessential Bengali-at-heart Jisshu Sengupta shares his plans for the upcoming Durga Puja 2021, a festival he tries never to miss in his hometown Kolkata.

Celebrating Durga Puja with Jisshu Sengupta

Celebrating Durga Puja With Jisshu Sengupta

Celebrity Interview

Indian Festivals

Durga Puja

Kolkata

Interview

The final countdown to the beginning of Durga Puja, Mahalaya turning Bongs into true-blue Bangalis—no matter their age and location. 

Ever wondered what is the meaning of Mahalaya and why it is celebrated before Durga Puja? Read on zeezest.com.

What is Mahalaya and its relevance today | Durga Puja 2021 | Zee Zest

Mahalaya: The Coming Home Of Goddess Durga

How many of you have tried the Ashtami-special Kanjak ki Thali on the eighth day of Navratri?

Ashtami is celebrated on the eighth day of Navratri be preparing a feast for young girls who are believed to be a form of the goddess. Read Zeezest.com  

Navratri Ashtami traditions and celebrations explained | Zee Zest

The Tradition Of Preparing A Feast For Goddesses During Navratri

The North Bombay Sarbojanin Durga Puja Samiti is popularly known as the Mukherjee Badi Pujo.

From making the bhog to planning the theme, the Mukherjee clan comes together for the oldest and biggest Durga puja celebration in Mumbai. Read Zeezest.com

Bollywood’s Famous Mukherjee Family Celebrates Pujo | Zee Zest

How Mumbai’s Star-Studded Pujo Welcomes Ma Durga Into Our Hearts Every Year

<p>It is the time of the year when the Goddess of Shakti arrives once again. A time to pay obeisance and homage to the ultimate embodiment of strength and power—Goddess Durga.  Well, it is the time for Navratri, arguably one of the biggest and most popular Hindu festivals. </p><p>Celebrated across India, Navratri is commemorated over a period of nine days, starting the day after Mahalaya Amavasya, and is an ode to the all-pervading feminine power.  The festival culminates with grand celebrations on the tenth day which is also called Vijayadashami or Dussehra/Dasara and is marked by rituals galore.</p><h2>Navratri Golu </h2><figure class="image"><img src="https://assets.zeezest.com/images/PROD_Golu-display4_1633500679962.jpg"></figure><p>While the worship of the Divine Mother is done in different ways in different regions, the festival in the southern states celebrates the victory of Goddess Durga over the demon Mahishasura. In Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, and Andhra Pradesh, the tradition of setting up an artistic arrangement of dolls called <i>Bommai Golu</i> (sometimes also spelt as Gollu) or <i>Navratri Golu</i> take precedence. A colourful and interesting custom, <i>Bommai Golu</i> or <i>Kolu</i>, as it is called in Tamil, means Divine Presence. In Kannada, it is called <i>Bombe</i> or <i>Gombe Habba</i> which means festival of dolls, and in Telugu it is known as <i>Bommala Koluvu</i>, translating to ‘court of toys’.  </p><p>The toys or dolls symbolically represent divinity and are believed to be the assembly of the Goddess who is out on a mission to defeat the demon, which happens on the tenth day.  The dolls are placed in a step-like arrangement and the number of steps is usually nine, even though it could be slightly less or more. But the number of steps is always an odd number with idols of Gods and Goddesses placed on the upper steps. Depicted below are mythological scenes from the Ramayana and Mahabharata, as well as scenes showcasing rituals such as weddings, celebrations and even farming, shopping and life in the rural regions. A pair of wooden dolls representing a newlywed couple called <i>Pattada Gombe</i> or <i>Marapachi Bommai</i> is a mandatory feature in the entire arrangement.  </p><figure class="image"><img src="https://assets.zeezest.com/images/PROD_Dasara-Dolls4_1633500658668.jpg"></figure><p>According to tradition, a new doll is added every year to the arrangement, but today the entire exercise of setting up the Golu is not just about customs.  It is a chance for most households to unleash their creativity with innovative themes dominating the display year on year. Toy shopping before the festival is common with people scouting for new dolls each year. </p><p>Ramsons Kala Pratishtana (RKP), a Mysuru-based art foundation organises an exhibition of Dasara dolls annually with innovations and additions each year. Dolls of Lord Manjunatha of Dharmastala and Goddesses Chamundeshwari, Horanadu Annapoorneshwari, Kolluru Mookambika, and Tulaja Bhavani are just a few additions this year apart from peg dolls and figurines depicting the <i>Navarasa</i> and Suryanamaskar.  </p><p>AlsoRead0</p><p>And if you are looking for hubs from where you can pick up toys for the festival, below is a quick low-down on the places where you can shop to make your Golu more exciting.</p><h2>1. Shopping at Channapatna for Golu</h2><figure class="image"><img src="https://assets.zeezest.com/images/PROD_Channapatna-Dolls_1633500578498.jpg"></figure><p>Known as <i>Gombegla ooru</i>, which translates to toy town, Channapatna is located about 60 km from Bengaluru. It is famous for its toys made from the wood of a locally-grown tree called Wrightia tinctoria tree, which is also colloquially known as <i>aale marra</i> or ivory wood. The toys are made using a special technique of lacquering the wood using a lathe machine. The craft, which has been accorded with a Geographical Indication (GI) tag, has been patronised from the days of the region’s famous ruler Tipu Sultan who is said to have invited artisans from Persia to train the locals in this art. Known for their impeccable finish and fine colours, these toys are famous not only in Karnataka but the world over and were once famously gifted to President Barack Obama during his visit to India.  </p><figure class="image"><img src="https://assets.zeezest.com/images/PROD_Dasara-Dolls_1633500779294.jpg"></figure><p>With several toy emporiums and factories in Channapatna, it is a great idea to shop here for your Dasara Golu. Right from idols of Gods like Ganesha and Hanuman to Dasha Avatara sets and displays of  Lord Rama and Goddess Sita aboard a boat or King Vasudeva carrying Lord Krishna—one is truly spoilt for choice. “We have some new additions like the Mysore Palace, Vidhan Soudha, and several traditional toys like family sets and royal elephant processions that are apt for Dasara,” says K. Abdul Kareemson, a toy merchant from the town whose store dates back to 1909.  </p><h2>2. Shopping at Kondapalli, Andhra Pradesh </h2><figure class="image"><img src="https://assets.zeezest.com/images/PROD_Kondapalli-Toys-being-crafted-by-womenfolk_1633500589179.jpg"></figure><p>A quaint village just about 25 km from Vijayawada in Andhra Pradesh, Kondapalli is known for its rustic, wooden toys made from the white sander wood that grows locally in the region.  This softwood is botanically known as <i>Jiuotia Rotteri From </i>is and as “<i>Tella Poniki</i>” locally. It is creamish-white in colour, soft in texture, and light in weight.  It is important to note that the wood becomes lighter with time, making it amenable for cutting, shaping, and chiselling.  </p><p>Blocks of wood, cut and left in the open to dry are a common sight on Kondapalli streets. A vibrant cottage industry, Kondapalli toys are known for their bright colours, lightweight, and endearing designs. Common themes of this GI-accorded craft include their signature couple dolls, village markets, bullock cart ploughs, harvesting scenes, rural life, and the likes. Birds and animals, including decorated elephants, are famous and are a perfect addition to your Golu.</p><p>AlsoRead1</p><h2>3. Shopping at Kinnal, Karnataka </h2><figure class="image"><img src="https://assets.zeezest.com/images/PROD_Kinnal-toy_1633500601968.jpg"></figure><p>Located in Karnataka’s Koppal district, Kinnal (also spelt Kinhal) is home to an artistic tradition whose heritage dates back to the 15th or 16th century. The craft, which was accorded a GI in 2012, was patronised by the rulers of the Vijayanagar empire including Krishnadeva Raya, and also by the nawab of Koppal.  </p><p>The craft is practised by traditional artists called Chitragars, who handcraft religious idols from a locally available wood called <i>Polki Marra</i>.  The village is home to about 25 families who are engaged in the craft and originally made large idols for temple and village festivals. Currently, the artisans are involved in making a wide variety of dolls including trademark creations like Gowri heads, Garuda, and Hanuman. The entire process is indigenous and involves the use of materials like jute, tamarind paste, and pebble powder. Some idols have a stunning gold finish, which again is a characteristic feature of Kinnal toys. “We have a range of smaller toys for Navratri including village folk, fruit and vegetable sets, idols of Goddess Durga and Kamadhenu,” says Santosh Kumar Chitragar, an artist from Kinnal.</p><p>AlsoRead2</p><h2>4. Shopping at Varanasi</h2><figure class="image"><img src="https://assets.zeezest.com/images/PROD_Dasara-Dolls3_1633500621748.jpg"></figure><p>Varanasi and Mirzapur in the northern state of Uttar Pradesh are famous for wooden toys too. Handmade and crafted without joints, this GI accorded craft is said to be practised by the craftsmen belonging to Kunder Kharadi Samaj.  </p><p>The toys are brightly coloured and are made from wood available locally which is processed by heating before being cut and crafted.  The dolls are handmade or shaped using a lathe machine.  They are then painted in vibrant hues for a beautiful glazed finish.  Fine lines are painted using a brush made from the hair of a squirrel’s tail.  Common toys include intricately painted elephants, horses, chariots, and carts as well as masks that are used by the artists during Ramlila, which again is an unmissable tradition in the north, celebrated during Dussehra.</p>

While Navratri is celebrated in a multitude of ways across India, some southern states dive into festivities with an eclectic display of dolls.  

While Navratri and Dussehra is celebrated in a multitude of ways across India, South India dives into festivities with an eclectic display of Golu dolls. Read zeezest.com

Celebrating Navratri With Golu Dolls in South India | Zee Zest 

Golu: How South India Celebrates Navratri

Festive Season

South India

Dusshera

Culture

Navratri

Does the idea of buying art intimidate you? If you're an art novice, this is what you need to know. 


Vaishnavi Murali of Eikowa Art shares tips and tricks of things to keep in mind while buying artwork, sculptures and more for your home. For more, read ZeeZest.com 

How To Buy Art for Your Home | Investing in art

8 Things To Keep In Mind Before Buying Art For Your Home 

From grandma’s utilitarian hobby to revolutionary art form, what does the future hold for embroidery. 

From SUPW activity in schools to an art form, hand embroidery has never received the credit it deserves. Here is how you can get started on hand embroidery. Read ZeeZest.com

The future of hand embroidery as an art form | Zee Zest

Revival or Denial – The Embroidery Art 

The 34-year-old actor shares her love for art and culture, whether it is as an actor or purveyor of handcrafted jewellery.

Actor Aditi Rao Hydari loves vintage jewellery and has treasured heirloom pieces. In an interview with Zee Zest, she talks about her favourite pieces of jewellery and we she considers it an art form. Read ZeeZest.com

Interview with Aditi Rao Hydari | Zee Zest

Any Art Form Is About Love, Passion, And Honest Intentions: Aditi Rao Hydari

<p>It’s no secret that Kutch, India’s wild west, is a paradise for art and craft lovers. Home to tribal groups, its little hamlets produce some of India’s finest handicrafts and more than 40 different styles of exquisite embroidery, each unique in pattern, colour combination, history and significance. Karigars from various ethnic communities maintain traditional dressing style and practice crafts like weaving, dyeing, printing, bandhani (tie-dye), leatherwork, pottery, woodwork, metalwork among others. </p><p>The kind of diversity in local craft concentrated in this arid region is what sums up India’s art and craft heritage. In fact, one can say that handicrafts are deeply integrated into the heritage and social fabric of Kutch. More importantly, they have been the mode of expression as well as means for survival and sustenance since generations. </p><p>Wish to weave some art, craft and culture in your Kutch itinerary? Here’s what you shouldn’t miss </p><h2>1. Pottery painting in Khavda Village, Bhuj</h2><figure class="image"><img src="https://assets.zeezest.com/images/PROD_POTTERY3_1635266853829.jpg"><figcaption>One of the oldest existing art forms, painted pottery dates back 5,000 years</figcaption></figure><p>In the small village of Khavda, Bhuj, Kumbhar Abdul Ibrahim and his family members have been making earthen pots with the same process and designs as those found in the Indus Valley excavations. These pots are made from soft clay, often referred to as <i>“rann ki mitti”.</i> While men shape clay into pots on a potter’s wheel, kumbhar women use red, black, and white clay-based paints to decorate each piece of pottery with distinct, nature-inspired designs. All earthenware is coated with a thin wash of geru (red colour). “We craft a wide variety of vessels, such as <i>matka</i> for water storage, plates, bowls, <i>kulhads</i>, lamps etc. This art is god-gifted and we take a lot of pride in it,” says Ibrahim whose forefathers migrated to Kutch from Sindh a few hundred years ago. </p><h2>2. Bandhani in Kamdar Colony, Bhuj City</h2><figure class="image"><img src="https://assets.zeezest.com/images/PROD_bandhani_art_1635411803393.jpg"><figcaption>Traditional Bandhani, depending on the intricacy of a design, can take months to complete. | Pic: Shutterstock</figcaption></figure><p>Over 200 independent women artisans from different villages of Kutch are at the heart of Bandhani production by SIDRcraft. They help in tying thousands of tiny knots on the stencilled fabric (pure silk, cotton and cotton-silk blends) to create a single scarf or shawl. Post this, the process of dyeing, often in successive stages for a single piece, takes place at the Bhuj-based SIDRcraft studio founded by Abduljabbar Khatri over 20 years ago in Kutch. “Our aim is to continue the family tradition of bandhani, a centuries-old technique of micro tie-dye that produces an exquisite pattern, design and texture on fabric. Today, our high-quality bandhani is sourced by several ace designers in India and abroad,” says Khatri, who also encourages economic independence for village artisans through his enterprise. </p><p>AlsoRead0</p><h2>3. Block printing in Ajrakhpur </h2><figure class="image"><img src="https://assets.zeezest.com/images/PROD_BLOCK%20PRINTING_1635411943284.jpg"><figcaption>Ajrakh was the traditional attire for the Maldhari (cattle herders) community of Kutch. Block printed fabric was earlier worn by men as a turban or a piece of cloth placed on the shoulder.</figcaption></figure><p>Named after block print or Ajrakh, Ajrakhpur came into existence after the massive destruction caused by the earthquake of 2001. In case you're wondering what's Ajrakhpur all about, it’s a town full of block printers, all excelling in the art passed on to them by their forefathers. Block printing dates back to 4,500 years and originated in the region of Sindh. Ajrakh artisans in India came from Sindh and migrated to Kutch. When in Ajrakhpur, visit block printer Dr Ismail Khatri's workshop to understand the history and nuances of Ajrakh. “Blocks carved in traditional designs are coated in dye and pressed onto fabrics such as cotton, linen, wool and different types of silk, like tussar, crepe, georgette and chiffon. Layers of colours and prints are added between stages of rinsing, dyeing and sun drying,” explains Khatri who has wooden blocks over 200 years old. The use of natural resources to dye and paint makes it all the more interesting. While blue comes from indigo plants, red is obtained from madder root, alizarin, sappan wood and lac. Yellow is from pomegranate rinds and turmeric, and green is achieved by over-dyeing indigo with turmeric and pomegranate. Apart from its trademark colours, black outlines and white accents, the Kutchi Ajrakh is characterised by symmetric geometrical patterns. </p><p>Celebrity Indian designers like Anita Dongre, well-known for House of Anita Dongre that shelters brands like AND and Global Desi, and Anavila Misra, founder of the brand Anavila, have been working closely with block printers of Ajrakhpur as well as embroidery artists from little hamlets in Kutch. What takes them back to Kutch is the quality, intricacy, and gorgeous karigari offered by artisans here.</p><h2>4. Applique art in Sumrasar Sheikh </h2><figure class="image"><img src="https://assets.zeezest.com/images/PROD_APPLIQUE-WORK_1635266661164.jpg"><figcaption>You will be surprised to know that Meghiben has conducted applique art demonstrations in various parts of the world. In 2007, Meghiben’s work won the UNESCO Seal of Excellence Award. In 2010, she showcased her work in the USA.</figcaption></figure><p>A master at applique art, Meghiben Meriya of Sumrasar Sheikh village narrates beautiful stories through patchwork and embroidery. Applique art is ornamental needlework in which pieces of fabric in different shapes and patterns are sewn together to make a larger piece of art. Have a conversation with Meghiben over a cup of tea and she will tell you all about her journey as an artist and her struggles in life. “I learnt embroidery the traditional way—from my mother,” says Meghiben, who quickly became known as an expert artisan, and worked as an embroiderer and patchwork artist for a decade. Whether it’s her applique work cushion covers and placemats or snakes and ladders game set with patchwork board, her work is proof of the fact that her hands, though feeble and wrinkles, can craft magic even today. </p><p>AlsoRead1</p><h2>5. Rogan art, bell making and lacquer art in Nirona</h2><p>Located 40 km northwest of Bhuj, Nirona, is a village home to artisan families that practice some of the most extraordinary art forms of Gujarat. Spending a day here can give you some time to interact with the warm and welcoming artisans and learn all about the intricacies of their craft. </p><h3>Rogan Art</h3><figure class="image"><img src="https://assets.zeezest.com/images/PROD_rogan_art_shutterstock_1635493655942.jpg"><figcaption>Prime Minister Narendra Modi famously presented a fine piece of Rogan art to Barack Obama during the erstwhile American president's visit. The piece was created right here in the village of Nirona. | Pic: Shutterstock</figcaption></figure><p>An ancient textile art with its origins in Persia, Rogan came to Nirona village of Kutch around 400 years ago. While it was on the brink of extinction, it was revived by the efforts of Abdul Gafur Khatri and his younger brother Sumar. “In Rogan art, a wooden tool that resembles an earbud, is used to form a strand of colour in the air that helps create intended motifs before the tool hits the fabric. All the colours we use are natural dyes mixed with castor oil and a secret ingredient; the resulting paint is thick and shiny,” says Sumar Khatri. In Rogan painting, floral and geometrical designs are produced freehand, with utmost control, and great attention to detail. Majority of the time, half of a design is painted, then the cloth is folded in half, transferring a mirror image to the other half of the fabric. Yellow, white, red, blue and green are widely used colours.<i><strong> </strong></i></p><h3>Bell Making</h3><figure class="image"><img src="https://assets.zeezest.com/images/PROD_BELL%20MAKING2_1635425036562.jpg"></figure><p>A section of the Lohar community from Nirona and Zura villages are skilled in bell making. In one of the many quiet alleyways ofNirona village, you are likely to find passionate bell-maker Ali Lohar’s studio. He is often seen hammering the metal plates to craft dainty bells that create some of the most soothing sounds. These bells are then coated in brass and baked in a coal fire before polishing them to achieve the finished product that is tied to strings, wires or embroidered leather strips to create hangings and other home decor items. “Bells were earlier used by <i>Maldhari bharwads</i> and <i>Rabaris</i> (local cattle-breeding communities) to identify their cattle. In fact, maldharis would sit with us to describe the sound that their cattle recognise, and we would beat the bell till we achieve the desired sound,” explains Lohar.  </p><h3>Lacquer Art</h3><figure class="image"><img src="https://assets.zeezest.com/images/PROD_LACQUER-WORK_1635266874994.jpg"><figcaption>Kutchi lacquer art is usually practiced by the whole family. While men cut and shape wooden articles, women apply finishing touches to them.</figcaption></figure><p>Lacquer work is an uncommon art practiced by the Vadha community in Nirona and Bhirandiayara. A burst of vivid colours and kaleidoscopic designs, lacquer art involves creating zigzag patterns or waves of colours on simple day-to-day products like wooden spoons, rolling pins, containers, toys, and utensils. Traditionally, the Vadhas obtained lac from insect resin, created colourful lacquer art on locally-sourced babool or mango wood and bartered them with the Maldhari community. Today, lac is easily available in the market. “Even today, most of the lacquer process is done on a manual lathe. Once the wood is shaped into desired forms, each piece is individually put on the lathe and smoothened using wooden tools. Simultaneously, coloured lacquer is applied to wood to create psychedelic designs by hand,” says Bhachaya Bhai Vadha who uses ancient techniques and tools to create beautiful kitchenware. </p><h2>6. Leather art and Kutchi embroidery in Hodka </h2><figure class="image"><img src="https://assets.zeezest.com/images/PROD_LEATHER%20CRAFT_1635425251622.jpg"></figure><p>Hodka village on the far Western edge of Gujarat, near the border with Pakistan, is home to many leather artisans as well as women who are masters in Kutchi embroidery. When here, make sure to interact with Umrabhai Kana and his wife Bayabai. While Umbrabhai's family hails from Pakistan, they moved to Marwad, Rajasthan long ago and later moved to Kutch. A leather artisan par excellence, Umrabhai makes beautiful mugs, jackets, hats, footwear etc from naturally-dyed leather. His wife Bayabai Umra is an expert in Kutchi embroidery. Dressed in traditional garb, she has roamed around the shopping malls and exhibits of France, showcasing her work and explaining the intricacies of embroidery. </p><h2>7. Mutva art in Sinyaro</h2><figure class="image"><img src="https://assets.zeezest.com/images/PROD_MUTVA%20ART2_1635425367164.jpg"><figcaption>The rustic demeanour of Khan may conceal the fact that he is extremely tech savvy and knows how to reap the benefits of living in a digital world. </figcaption></figure><p>A mud work artist from Sinyaro village, Majikhan Mutva aces the 300-year-old craft which is often known as ‘lippan’ artwork. It was earlier done directly on the walls. Today, it’s done on small mud bases and wooden canvas. The art involves rolling mud (mixed with horse dung) into thin strips that are later moulded into fine designs. These formed designs are then decorated using mirrors of different sizes and shapes. “I have learnt the craft from my ancestors, and I dream of taking it to the world. Hence, I approached a leading shopping portal as a seller a few years ago. However, all my appeals were rejected before I finally managed to build their confidence in me, and have a registered seller account. Today, I am proud to say that my art pieces are dispatched across the world,” says Khan, who is also an avid reader and believes in keeping up with technology. Coming from a little village that's hidden in a corner of Kutch, Khan has managed to achieve a big feat. </p><h2>8. Hari zari in Bhadroi  </h2><figure class="image"><img src="https://assets.zeezest.com/images/PROD_HARI-ZARI2_1635266735003.jpg"><figcaption>Pabiben is among the 15 uniquely-skilled artisans who helped in the designing of Sui Dhaga (Bollywood film starring Anushka Sharma and Varun Dhawan) logo that incorporated 15 different Indian art forms. </figcaption></figure><p>Pabiben Rabari from Bhadroi Village in Kutch went on from being a daily wager to an entrepreneur who invented Hari Jari, an embroidery technique that requires sewing of ready-made designs, ribbons and patterns on cloth, using a tailoring machine. If you find her face familiar, it is likely you have seen her sitting on the hot seat of Amitabh Bachchan’s <i>Kaun Banega Crorepati</i>. While she is a popular face in Kutch today, her journey is truly an inspiring one. There was a time when she was paid only a rupee to do odd jobs like fetching water from a well. Today, she has more than 160 women and several men working in her enterprise. With the aim to preserve and promote age-old crafts, she has been bringing together different artists from various corners of Kutch. </p><p>For pabiben.com’s products, the Maldhari community (herders) provides the wool that is used for making shawls, while weaving is done by the Vankars, dyeing by the Muslim Khatri community and embroidery by the Rabari women. </p><p>AlsoRead2</p><hr><figure class="table"><table><tbody><tr><td><h3>Gandhi Nu Gaam - a sustainable village</h3><p>Post the 2001 Gujarat earthquake, Gandhi nu Gam at Ludiya was one of the 16 villages that were rebuilt from scratch, using locally-sourced materials. The project included the construction of 455 traditional bhungas (a circular mud home with a conical thatched roof) together with three schools, a grass bank, community buildings, production centres, religious shrines, the electricity network and a water harvesting system. Art, culture and architecture are symbiotically interwoven in this village that is home to several craftsmen, each specialising in a unique form of art. A visit here can not only give you a lesson in sustainable living but also showcase the local community's determination to preserve the past as well as shape the future. With each and every home richly embellished with clay and mirror relief work, the village is absolutely Insta worthy!</p></td></tr></tbody></table></figure><hr><p><i>Rann Utsav, a winter festival that celebrates the marvels of nature at the White Desert and the rich cultural and artistic heritage of Kutch, will be taking place from Nov 1, 2021 to Feb 20, 2022. However, make sure you go beyond the festival and visit the craft villages that are off the tourist trail.</i></p>

A mecca of colour, craft, creativity, and imagination that brings alive beautiful bandhani, block-printing, Kutchi embroidery, and other local crafts. 

Explore the diversity of local handicraft and textile arts such as bandhani, block printing, lacquer and applique art brought alive by the karigars and artisans. 

A tour of the eight art and craft villages in Kutch | Travel and culture

8 Art And Craft Villages In Kutch Every Handicraft Lover Must Visit

Gujarat

Travel

Indian Art

Art 

Handicraft

Craft

Kutch

Head to The Origin—a delicatessen, gift store, and a vegan café disguised as an artisanal grocery store in Khar, Mumbai. 

Khar is now home to The Origin, which is a delicatessen, gift store, and a vegan café disguised as an artisanal grocery store. 

Review: The Origin Khar | Artisanal Food Products And Vegan Cafe

New Launch: Shop Artisanal, Eat Vegan, And Repeat At The Origin, Mumbai 

Baker and photographer, Parth Bajaj, who flew all the way from Nagpur to shop at the market has some shopping insights for you.

Price, quality, variety, here's what you get when you shop at Gurugram's Banjara Market, read zeezest.com    

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These health experts say these food items are a big no no.

Check out the list of foods nutritionists avoid and why. From packaged foods that claim to be healthy to margarine and MSG. Read Zeezest.com

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<p>Bandra Kurla Complex is no longer just the hub for gourmet brunches and fine-dine dinners. If you are looking for indulgent retail therapy and world-class experiences, head to the recently-opened Jio World Drive (JWD). The premium retail destination at Maker Maxity promises to give you an experience like no other. Designed by renowned architects Ross Bonthorne and Andy Lampard—the elegantly designed mall works on the concept of merging the outdoors with the indoors. </p><p>We decided to take a break from work on a Tuesday evening and headed to JWD for some retail therapy. </p><h2>Shop, eat, relax</h2><figure class="image"><img src="https://assets.zeezest.com/images/PROD_Reliance-world-drive-inside-image-2_1634795582962.jpg"></figure><p>With 72 premium Indian and international brands vying for our attention, we were spoilt for choice. We made our way past apparel and accessory brands such as Satya Paul, Tommy Hilfiger, Steve Madden, Asics, Armani Exchange, Muji, Onitsuka Tiger and Ritu Kumar, beauty labels including Forest Essentials, Dior, Kiehl’s and Jean-Claude Biguine among others—curbing our natural disposition to shop. </p><p>Instead, we focussed on the spacious outdoor spaces that offered enough space for food and beverage—outlets like Entisi, Hurrem’s, Bombay Island, Twisting Scoops and Cococart among others. The indoors spilled over to the outdoors with chairs and tables strategically placed for customers to dine. </p><p>AlsoRead0</p><p>We finally gave in to temptation and that’s because we have never been able to say no to books! Also, because there was a delicious aroma of coffee wafting out of the bright and colourful White Crow Books and Coffee store. Leaving behind the hustle and bustle outside, we ducked inside the store for a cappuccino from Nandan Coffee and browsed through an extensive collection of books.    </p><h2>Spaces and experiences</h2><p>Ever been to Dilli Haat in New Delhi or shopped your heart out at one of many flea markets that keep popping up in Mumbai? Well, think of that but with premium brands and in a mall. You have Pop Up @ The White Crow—a pop-up space that gives fashion-forward brands the chance to showcase their wares for a duration of three months. It’s a great place to discover new brands too. On our visit, we came across Italian clothing brand DSquared2, Malaysian fashion label Self-Portrait, and Indian brand Filter which retails quirky artwork, stationery and clothes, among others. With new brands popping up every three months, there is bound to be something new for shoppers each time they visit the mall.   </p><h2>Taking art to the people</h2><figure class="image"><img src="https://assets.zeezest.com/images/PROD_Reliance-world-drive-inside-image-1_1634795627985.jpg"></figure><p>At the entrance to the mall, our eyes instantly gravitated towards a large colourful installation by Arne Quinz. Titled Natural Chaos, the steel and aluminium structure towered over our heads, reminding us of the stilt houses seen in Assam. The structure stands as a tribute to the colourful diversity of the different communities living in Mumbai. </p><p>However, that’s not the only artwork that made us look up in awe. Inside the mall, we took in the golden electrical tube wires hanging high up from the ceiling in a beautiful loop pattern. The installation by Peruvian-American artist Grimanesa Amoros is a conversation starter for sure, and we saw shoppers flicking out their camera phones to capture the beauty. Another interesting artwork is the Dreambox Project by Sudarshan Shetty. The artist has replicated original projectors which belonged to the erstwhile drive-in theatre that existed here in the past, in the form of wooden ones which stand next to the originals.   </p><p>AlsoRead1</p><h2>Of many firsts </h2><p>As we strolled around the spacious walkways of the mall, noticing the standard favourites apparel and beauty brands such as M.A.C, Adidas Originals, Forever New, Superdry, Clinique and Kama Ayurveda, we also spotted a few that we haven’t seen anywhere earlier. American home décor brand West Elm comes to India with their flagship store at the mall and so does the global-first concept store of Hamleys called Hamleys Play. The excited happy shrieks emerging from the latter were indicative of just how much fun the tiny tots were having inside. Another first is the Maison PVR, their flagship cinema concept with six state-of-the-art multiplex theatres and a separate entrance for VIP guests. </p><p>Apart from these, there were some other noteworthy changes as well. On the ground floor of the mall, we spotted the beautiful gourmet café Cou Cou run by The Oberoi. Tempted as we were by the croissants and desserts, we took an elevator ride to the first level to discover that they have an all-women staff at the Starbucks outlet.    </p><h2>Groceries and more </h2><figure class="image"><img src="https://assets.zeezest.com/images/PROD_Freshpik%283%29_1634826045670.jpeg"></figure><p>Reliance’s new food and grocery concept store, Freshpik, looked like Willy Wonka’s chocolate factory as we made our way through several aisles. Divided into sections, you can pick up your household essentials and bakery goods from here. Also, depending on your preference, you can head to the Yogurt Bar for some flavoured yoghurts, Tea Garden for different types of teas, Good for You space which has a variety of millets, mueslis and soy milk. There is also a Wine Library and if you are unsure of which wine to buy, you can always make your selection at the Tasting Room conveniently stationed next to it. </p><p>If you are a chocolate lover, The Candy Paradise within Freshpik is the place to be! From a dedicated section for M&M's, there is also a Purple Room by Cadbury where you can purchase 3D printed Cadbury chocolates. Thirsty after all the shopping? How about a thick, creamy milkshake from the Cadbury kiosk?</p><p>The shopping experience is enhanced with the concept of a personal shopper, where you can scan and pay for your products at the exit without having to stand in queues to pay the bill.   </p><p>AlsoRead2</p><h2>Looking forward</h2><p>Once it opens—hopefully by the end of the year—the Jio Drive-in Theatre will be Mumbai’s first rooftop theatre. With a capacity for 290 cars, the theatre will be sort of a homage to Mumbai’s first drive-in cinema which existed in this precise location. The other exciting space we have to wait for is the concept of Nine Dine, a multi-cuisine café court where, unlike other food courts, you will be served food on your table from your choice of restaurant. Arbab, Kofuku, Neel, Legit, and Tacos and Buns by Tori are some of the dining experiences that you can choose from.   </p>

The newest, urban hangout in the heart of Bandra Kurla Complex is designed for bespoke experiences.

Jio World Drive is the newest, urban hangout in the heart of Bandra Kurla Complex. And it is designed for bespoke experiences.Read on zeezest.com

Jio World Drive: A New Luxury Mall Opens In Mumbai's BKC

Drive-In Theatre, Retail Indulgence And More Awaits You At Mumbai's Jio World Drive

The Oberoi Group has introduced a stand-along French-style patisserie brand in Mumbai and we’re excited!

Chefs Pierre Storti and Pratik Deshmukh are acing baking in Cou Cou Mumbai with their breads, pies, macarons and more.

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Cou Cou Offers A Warm Hug With Its French Patisserie Extravaganza

Mumbai

Shopping

New Launch

<p>Whether you need a smartphone cam that can keep up with your travel adventures or a device that captures dramatic pictures from your culinary trails, we have you covered. From zoom photography to cinematic style video to mobile shooters that are not afraid of the dark, we round up some of the best devices out there:</p><h2><a href="https://zeezest.com/culture/i-phone-13-i-phone-13-pro-max-review-zee-zest-936">1. iPhone 13 Pro and Pro Max</a></h2><figure class="image"><img src="https://assets.zeezest.com/images/PROD_Apple_iPhone-13-Pro_iPhone-13-Pro-Max_GEO_09142021_1634126999994.jpg"></figure><p>Apple’s new flagship device is powered by the new A15 Bionic processor, one of the fastest processors under the smartphone covers. All three rear lenses get night mode that enhances images and videos across different scenarios. Apple has kitted the new wide-angle camera with the largest sensor ever on an iPhone (1.9 µm pixels). When combined with the new processor, the result is sharper and detailed images with lesser noise captured at faster shutter speeds. </p><p><strong>Killer features:</strong> iPhone 13Pro Max is probably the mobile shooter to beat for videos and lowlight photography. The other new trick is macro photography (when you’re shooting with a minimum focus distance of 2 centimetres) that also extends to slow-mo and time-lapse videos.</p><p><strong>Price:</strong> Rs 1,19,900 onwards</p><h2>2. Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra</h2><figure class="image"><img src="https://assets.zeezest.com/images/PROD_S21-ultra-samsung_1634127032874.jpg"></figure><p>The 108MP primary lens might be one of the headline features in Samsung’s flagship smartphone camera but it’s the dual telephoto lenses that seals the deal. A 3X and 10X optical zoom lens combine to create a whole new set of possibilities. A Zoom lock feature ensures you don’t have a shaky image even as you keep zooming in. </p><p><strong>Killer features:</strong> Zoom photography; great results while you’re shooting wildlife from a distance. Lowlight images are sharp and the portrait mode on the 40MP selfie cam is a key win too. You might also dig the Director’s View mode that allows you to shoot videos with both front and rear cams simultaneously, allowing you to capture the moment and be in it. </p><p><strong>Price:</strong> Rs 1,05,999</p><h2>3. OnePlus 9 Pro</h2><figure class="image"><img src="https://assets.zeezest.com/images/PROD_OnePlus-9-pro_1634127040894.jpg"></figure><p>The first images of the moon landing as part of the Apollo 11 mission were captured on a Hasselblad camera. OnePlus joined forces with this iconic 180-year-old Swedish company to develop the rear cameras and improve the colour science for the OnePlus 9 Pro and the OnePlus 9 smartphones. The rear camera integrates a 48MP Sony IMX789 primary sensor (with OIS and EIS support) that features an f/1.8 lens, a 50MP Sony IMX766 lens with an ultra-wide-angle lens, a 2MP monochrome sensor and an 8MP telephoto lens. </p><p><strong>Killer features:</strong> Videos are very sharp; you have the option of shooting in 8K. Lowlight and zoom images are up there with the best too. </p><p><strong>Price:</strong> Rs 60,999 onwards</p><p>AlsoRead0</p><h2>4. Vivo X70 Pro+</h2><figure class="image"><img src="https://assets.zeezest.com/images/PROD_Vivo-Xpro-70_1634127047964.jpg"></figure><p>Vivo’s new flagship smartphone rides on a partnership with Zeiss, the German optical systems and optoelectronics company—a co-engineered imaging system that gives a major boost to the device’s four rear cameras. All four cameras – a 50-megapixel wide-angle camera, a 48-megapixel ultra-wide-angle camera, a 12-megapixel telephoto camera with 2X optical zoom and another 8-megapixel telephoto camera with 5X optical zoom – come with aut;o focus and OIS (Optical image stabilisation).</p><p><strong>Killer features</strong> Greater video stabilisation thanks to a gimbal on the 48MP ultra-wide-angle camera; perfect for those action shots. Sharp zoom images (even at 5X) even in low light. All rear lenses have certified compliance to Zeiss’ T* coating that reduces stray lights and ghosting effects when you’re shooting in the night. </p><p><strong>Price:</strong> Rs 69,990</p><h2>5. OPPO Reno Pro 6 5G Diwali edition</h2><figure class="image"><img src="https://assets.zeezest.com/images/PROD_Reno6-Diwali1_1634127056864.jpg"></figure><p>Add some extra bling with this special edition version of the Reno 6 Pro that features the same versatile camera. It’s driven by a 64MP primary lens and also features an 8MP ultra-wide lens, a 2MP Macro cam and a 2MP mono lens.</p><p><strong>Killer features:</strong> Bokeh Flare Portrait video delivers real-time video processing while capturing portrait videos. Subjects appeared bright even in a dimly lit pub. Other cool tricks include AI Color Portrait videos and a 32MP selfie lens that can work wonders for your skin in your holiday pictures if you don’t mind the aggressive beautification.</p><p><strong>Price:</strong> Rs 41,990</p><h2>6. iPhone 13</h2><figure class="image"><img src="https://assets.zeezest.com/images/PROD_Apple_iphone13_colors_geo_09142021_1634127067489.jpg"></figure><p>The iPhone 13 and 13 Mini get a boost with Sensor-shift that was an iPhone 12 Pro Max exclusive last year. It stabilises the sensor instead of the lens; shots are steadier and lowlight photography is sharper. The dual rear camera also gets a leg up with the new wide camera (1.7 µm pixels). It gathers 47% more light than its predecessor delivering better lowlight images.</p><p><strong>Killer features:</strong> Cinematic mode automatically transitions focus while filming in real-time and thereby shifts focus when subjects enter or leave the frame. You have the option to edit the depth-of-field effect in the video even after recording. There are also in-built Photographic Styles that offer a choice of five styles (like ‘vibrant’ or ‘rich contrast’); you can set the tone even before you snap the image (unlike a post-shot filter). </p><p><strong>Price:</strong> Rs 79,900 onwards</p><h2>7. Google Pixel 4a</h2><figure class="image"><img src="https://assets.zeezest.com/images/PROD_Pixel-4a_1634127090991.jpg"></figure><p>We’re still waiting for Google’s top-of-the-line smartphones in India but the Pixel 4a is a great option for a stellar Google camera experience. This is not a camera that combines multiple lenses but a smart shooter that leverages solid hardware and AI. HDR+ enhances images by adjusting colour and lighting. </p><p><strong>Killer features:</strong> Google’s NightSight is one of our favourite lowlight camera solutions on any smartphone. The Pixel 4a is also a great camera for astrophotography when you’re out on those treks under a starry, unpolluted sky. You can shoot sharp portrait images with this camera too. </p><p><strong>Price:</strong> Rs 30,990</p>

A quality camera is a must-have in any modern smartphone and these smartphone devices are killing it!

From zoom photography and cinematic style video to night modes and macro, here are the best smartphone cameras in the Indian market.

Top 7 Smartphone Cameras in 2021 | Zee Zest

7 Best Smartphone Cameras To Up Your Insta Game 

Gadget

Technology

Smartphone

<p>Indian history continues to be the playground for both petty politics and divisiveness, and yet it reminds us of how far we’ve come as a nation-state. In such a scenario, popular misconceptions and stereotypes abound. The most prominent one that has continued to the present is the state of Indian royalty. When Indira Gandhi abolished the privy purse in 1971, thus ceasing all governmental grants to former royals, it heralded a permanent and even irreversible shift in the way a newly-democratic nation saw its former kings and queens. </p><p>Were the Indian maharajahs nothing more than the product of their baser instincts, submitting before the British, given to alcohol and drugs, weak in their defences and spirit?</p><p>Author-historian Manu Pillai quotes Indira Gandhi’s famous 1967 indictment of the royals in the epilogue: “Go ask the Maharajas how many wells they dug for the people in their States when they ruled them, how many roads they constructed, what they did to fight the slavery of the British. If you look at the account of their achievements before Independence, it is a big zero (sic).”</p><figure class="image"><img src="https://assets.zeezest.com/images/PROD_Author%20pic_1633337589359.jpg"><figcaption>Manu S. Pillai</figcaption></figure><p>In the 400 pages of his new book <i>False Allies: India’s Maharajahs in the age of Ravi Varma </i>published by Juggernaut, every line referenced and backed up with copious research, the  2017 Sahitya Akademi Yuva Puraskar awardee sets out to answer precisely this question that Gandhi rhetorically posed five years before abolishing the privy purse. </p><p>Here are the edited excerpts from an interview with Zee Zest where the author shares some insights about the book and more. </p><h2>1. Were you always planning to write a book debunking the Maharajas? Was it perhaps a long time in the coming?</h2><p>Manu S Pillai: I did plan to write a book on the princely states, because my very first, The Ivory Throne, was set in one. Work on that project taught me that there was a great deal more to the maharajahs than their palaces and elephants and that the stereotype masked a whole chapter of Indian history. The clichés we associate with the princely states were either of an imperialist design—meant to make the ‘natives’ feel as if they had no worthy rulers and would need colonial guidance to govern. While the book does not glorify royalty, it does urge that we investigate the princely states more seriously, as important political spaces that are relevant to understanding modern Indian history.</p><figure class="image"><img src="https://assets.zeezest.com/images/PROD_False-Allies-cover_1633337627669.jpg"></figure><h2>2. At what point in your research did you realise this could be a larger project covering a range of maharajas across the country?</h2><p>Manu S Pillai: I did want to cover different types of states in different areas. No one state was like the other: problems faced by the Maratha rulers of Gujarati subjects in Baroda were very different from issues that the ‘robber caste’ kings of Pudukkottai dealt with; and Travancore, with an efficient bureaucracy, was different from the more fragmented structures of power in Rajputana. I couldn’t pick too large a sample—the book covers five states, of which three are in the south, one in the west, and one in North India—but wanted just about enough to demonstrate the sheer diversity among the maharajahs. They were not a standard class that behaved in any standard way. Gladly Ravi Varma came in handy: not only was he related to royalty, his portrait enterprise in the princely states meant that by tracking his career, I could tell multiple stories, while also keeping a common thread throughout the book.</p><figure class="image"><img src="https://assets.zeezest.com/images/PROD_The-Ravi-Varma-portrait-by-his-son%2C-Rama-Varma_1633337642415.jpg"><figcaption>The Ravi Varma portrait by his son, Rama Varma. Courtesy of the Madhavan Nayar Foundation, Kochi.</figcaption></figure><h2>3. Who were the other maharajas whose stories, equally fascinating, don’t find a place in the book? </h2><p>Manu S Pillai: Oh, there were quite a few. Shahu of Kolhapur was a remarkable man, but his career also demonstrates the interesting dynamics of the princely relationship with the nascent Congress party. He was a great reformer, built an educational infrastructure, and is well known for implementing reservations in his bureaucracy. For the most part, in the late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries, the Congress was on friendly terms with major maharajahs, whose administrative successes generate pride for many Indians across the board. By that yardstick, Shahu ought to have been a hero. But he was against the domination of Brahmins in public life—they had a monopoly on English education in India, and thus on jobs and much else—and took a staunch anti-Brahmin stance. The Congress in Maharashtra, in turn, had a large number of Brahmins associated with it, which led to a massive segment—to which Shahu also belonged—feeling they did not represent their interests. It is fascinating to me that what we would frame as ‘progressive’ Congress versus ‘feudal’ maharajah, in this case, has an undertone where the maharajah is progressive, and his somewhat less than warm feelings for the Congress drew from local caste politics! </p><figure class="image"><img src="https://assets.zeezest.com/images/PROD_Chhatrapati-Shahu-Maharaj-of-Kolhapur_1633337684300.jpg"><figcaption>Chhatrapati Shahu Maharaj of Kolhapur</figcaption></figure><h2>4. As we see with the case of Malhar Rao’s trial, would the Maharajas deftly link the violation of their dignity with that of their subjects? Were they always successful?</h2><p>Manu S Pillai: The people had an emotional connection with their ‘native’ rulers, and by parading those rulers and demonstrating their fealty to the Raj, the British hoped to construct a kind of refracted eminence for themselves among Indians. Indian respect for traditional rulers was also why during the 1857 rebellion, the troops did not elect a leader or vest one of their own with authority: they needed the Mughal emperor because he was the one figure around whom most stakeholders could unite. He had no power, but he had legitimacy. The maharajahs knew this and could even use it in their strategies to resist the Raj. Ultimately, they were brown men ruling over brown people, not aliens in a foreign country—this gave them an edge.</p><figure class="image"><img src="https://assets.zeezest.com/images/PROD_The-teen-Maharani-Jamnabai-of-Baroda-who-pulled-off-an-iconic-coup_1633337696874.jpg"><figcaption>The teen Maharani Jamnabai of Baroda who pulled off an iconic coup</figcaption></figure><h2>5. How would the lavishness of the Maharajahs contrast with the gradual poverty of ordinary Indians during the British period? </h2><p>Manu S Pillai: Princely pomp was a continuation of political traditions. Just as royal weddings in the UK to this day—or even presidential inaugurations in the US—cost a great deal, these were not demonstrations of excess for their own sake but had political meanings. And for every ruler who gambled and spent lavishly, you could find others who lived simply. Mysore’s prince was a simple man with moderate habits; his palace was a visual marker of princely power, not evidence of expensive tastes. In Travancore, there was a maharajah who had I think some six lakhs a year as his palace budget; but most of this was for pensions, staff, religious charities, etc. His allowance, if my memory serves me well, was Rs 5000 a month, which was Rs 3000 more than his chief minister.</p>

The author takes us into the heart of how the Indian Maharajahs were actually critical political players and not simply philanderers and drunkards.

Manu S Pillai, bestselling author-historian of The Ivory Throne, talks about his new book, False Allies. Read zeezest.com

In conversation with Manu S Pillai about his new book False Allies | Zee Zest 

Manu S. Pillai’s New Book Argues That Indian Maharajas Were Actually False Allies of the British 

Books

Review

If flying to the Greek isles isn’t quite on the cards, a meal at Opa Kipos is the next best thing. 

This new restaurant in Mumbai brings amazing Greek food with a lush Santorini vibe and fun tradition of breaking plates. For the full review, check ZeeZest.com 

Restaurant Review | Opa Kipos Mumbai

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<p>Looking to burn those wicked calories? Balls. Take to a spot of fun by hurling hefty balls along sleek bowling lanes. It is a class act at SW Entertainment's latest baby, Game Palacio—India’s first nightclub with swanky boutique bowling and entertainment lounge—that recently kicked off in Mumbai. Humming in Bandra, this brand new offering yawns breezily across premium realty, with cleverly sectioned chapters to woo all age groups. Strobe lights, gourmet gospels, couture walls, gleaming light fixtures, and a darling DJ console suspended above the bowling lanes, belting out the zippy tracks—what more could your little heart desire to bounce back to pre-pandemic fun!</p><figure class="image"><img src="https://assets.zeezest.com/images/PROD_Interiors-1_1634125203191.jpg"></figure><p>Shaped with pinewood, the four transparent bowling lanes are the first of a kind in the country. Matted gold with raven-black skims, the alleys, the gigantic artworks on the black walls their graphite tones and streaks of goldwork like sheer jewellery. The entire space is a rather classic, elegant run of black dotted with amber pools, showstopper chandeliers, and chic modernist Hungarian design that breathes sheer splendour. Of course, in keeping with the plush rush, I had a personal bowling butler to sanitise and hand me the balls while I forked in the natty nibbles, served right to the alley. That’s before I got a strike (call it beginner’s luck!), and moved up to the member lounge tucked away on the first level, and lined with spiffy seaters for greater intimacy. </p><p>AlsoRead0</p><h2>Arcade fun, drinks, and more </h2><figure class="image"><img src="https://assets.zeezest.com/images/PROD_Interiors-2_1634125214219.jpg"></figure><p>A drop below stands the arcade, kitted out with video games (complete with Pac Man, Color Wheel, Tomb Raider, Super Swirl, and more) in a rush of kicky colours and bubblegum shades. If you have kids, you can holler here with them for fam-friendly fun, race Ferraris or morph into a wild petrol head (like me) on those Hayabusas. Game Palacio knows how to keep juniors—and by extension, their parents—happy. On weekends, this area is snuffed out to transform into an extension of the tony nightclub. I found that to be a cool multitasking spin to the entire space as chic convertibles work well in manic Mumbai</p><figure class="image"><img src="https://assets.zeezest.com/images/PROD_Interiors-3_1634125223027.jpg"></figure><p>Coursing back to the club canter, the toss-up at the bar is a mix of classics and cool sips. My rum-laced Brazilian samba kicked in together with the gourmet whammy with rascal ease. The hand-tossed seafood pizza—packed with toasted garlicky chunks of John Dory, plump prawns and juicy squids— easily ranks as an absolute winner on my list. The sushi sashayed in with finesse—full marks to the nigiri—and all versions are absolutely lip-smacking, including roasted salmon and spicy tuna. Brie with avocado merits a special mention. The textures of the kale and quinoa salad work beautifully. The softshell crab tempura with goat cheese mousse simply melts in the mouth with amazing ease, the truffle burger slathered with Swiss cheese is a yummy mouthful too. </p><figure class="image"><img src="https://assets.zeezest.com/images/PROD_Interiors-4_1634125229640.jpg"></figure><p>Palacio easily serves up the best pork dumplings in mid-town. Even the mocktails are reliable and refreshing. Summer Quench pouts in a sassy basil-watermelon pour, the fruit punch ranks perfectly skimming on the sweet quotient, just the way I like it. Though the dessert menu could do with a more luscious lick, with only Belgian tiramisu and eight layers of chocolate brooding on the plate. Overall, here you can find designer portions that pack in the pizzazz.</p><p>AlsoRead1</p><figure class="image"><img src="https://assets.zeezest.com/images/PROD_Truffle-%26-Mushroom-Burger_1634125291002.jpg"></figure><p>Call it refined recreation, indoor adventure, hybrid nightclub—the lanes have already become such a smash that you need to book a few days in advance. The good news is, more outposts are soon opening up in Chandigarh, Delhi, and pan India. Can’t wait! </p><figure class="image"><img src="https://assets.zeezest.com/images/PROD_Smoked-Charcoal-Flan-%28Crisp-Base-with-Charcoal-infused-Cheese-Cake-%26-Dark-Sauce%29_1634125249145.jpg"></figure><p><span style="background-color:#FAFAFA;"><i><strong>Address:</strong> G0001/B, Krystal Building 206, Below Hakkasan, Waterfield Road, Bandra West, Mumbai, Maharashtra 400050</i></span><br> </p>

Game Palacio, Mumbai’s brand new edgy bowling spot and discotheque offers dishy serve-ups, cool music, bowling butlers, and ritzy cocktails. 

Game Palacio, Mumbai’s brand new edgy bowling spot and discotheque offers dishy serve-ups, cool music, bowling butlers, and ritzy cocktails. Read zeezest.com

Luxurious Bowling Alley Experience At Game Palacio Mumbai

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Durga Puja 2021: An Insider’s Guide To Kolkata’s Historic Art Enclave, Kumortuli 

<p>Durga Puja might have taken on a modern veneer and built a reputation as one of the greatest street carnivals in the world, but its soul is ancient, steeped in legends and lore, and in time-honoured rituals and traditions of spiritual significance, as well as cultural and sentimental value. Before Barowari, or community Puja became popular and later got their glamorous update, Durga Puja was a more intimate affair, mostly confined to the inner quarters of aristocratic homes where the dedicated Thakur Dalan (God’s courtyard), the nucleus of the house, is often referred to as Durga Dalan.</p><p>From Bodhon or the ritual unveiling of the Goddess’s face on Shashti (sixth day of Devi Paksh) to Boron, the farewell rituals on Vijayadashami, numerous rites and ceremonies, sanctioned by the shastras, are performed during Durga Puja. Besides, every household has its own rituals and traditions that often reflect caste, class, and regional culture. </p><p>The overriding sentiment around Durga Puja, and by far its most endearing aspect, is one of filial affection. In the Bengali imagination, Durga is the daughter of the land who visits her parental home, once every year, along with her children Lakshmi, Ganesh, Kartik and Saraswati. These autumnal festivities are laced with the poignant joy of a daughter’s homecoming. This sentiment finds the best expression at household pujas sometimes in the form of peculiar traditions rooted in emotion, rather than liturgy.</p><h2>Balyabhog: Treats for the young'uns</h2><figure class="image"><img src="https://assets.zeezest.com/images/PROD_Durga-puja-rituals-inside-image-1_1633953060559.jpg"></figure><p>At the Moulik residence in North Kolkata’s Bangur area, every morning of the five-day Durga Puja festivities, a special meal comprising fragrant Gobindobhog rice, Teetar Daal (bitter-sweet lentils), and fried brinjal is prepared for Goddess Durga’s children. The offering is called Balyabhog (children’s meal). “It’s common practice in Bengali homes to feed the children first and often special food, cooked with minimal spices, suitable for a child’s palate. Hence, the concept of Balyabhog (child’s meal),” says Showli Chakraborty, a daughter-in-law of the house.</p><p>AlsoRead0</p><h2>Bori and other goodies for the Goddess</h2><p>In another part of North Kolkata, at the illustrious Mitra household on Nilmoni Street, Goddess Durga is treated to an assortment of Bori (sun-dried lentil dumplings) made with ingredients like poppy seeds, spinach, peanuts, yellow split peas, black lentils, etc, and pickles made with plum, tamarind, mango and <i>aamshi </i>(dried mango). “Every year we reserve the first batch of <i>bori </i>and pickles made for the household to offer to Durga, just like we would for the daughters of the house,” Anasua Biswas, a member of the Mitra family, told me a couple of years ago. Another unique tradition at the Mitra residence requires married women of the household to eat a meal of <i>shukto</i> (bitter stew made with a medley of vegetables) <i>shaak</i> (leafy greens), <i>prashadi </i>achaar (pickles offered to the goddess) and fish, before they perform the Baran rituals on Dashami, the final day of the pujas.</p><figure class="image"><img src="https://assets.zeezest.com/images/PROD_Durga-puja-rituals-inside-image-2_1633953083855.jpg"></figure><h2>Dhuno Porano </h2><p>At Beadon Street’s Bholanath Dham, the residence of the Dutts, Durga is worshipped in the form of seven-year-old Uma, who sits on the lap of Shiva, her husband. “She is Rajnandini, the daughter of a king, and she must be treated like a princess,” said Ajay Dutt. Uma is pampered with an exquisite bath in water collected from 41 different sources. This list is long and staggering. “Water from the seven seas and seven rivers, the first drop of rain, first dewdrop, water with lotus pollen, water from Gomukh, water in which <i>ashtadhatu</i> (octo alloy) has been washed and so on and so forth,” Dutts tell us. Another interesting ritual here is <i>Dhuno Porano</i>.  The women of the family sit with clay <i>malsha</i> (bowls) filled with burning frankincense in their hands, and on their heads, as a votive offering.</p><p>AlsoRead1</p><h2>Ritual sacrifice</h2><p>Again, Bali or Boli, a ritual sacrifice, is an integral part of the goddess-centric Shakta tradition. In the past, goat or even buffalo sacrifices were often made during Durga Puja, usually during Sandhi Puja that signifies the Mahashandhikkhan or the sacred juncture between Ashtami and Navami, when Goddess Durga is worshipped as the fierce Chamunda, the slayer of demons Chanda and Munda. Nowadays, animal sacrifice is rare, but not inexistent. However, in many homes, particularly in Vaishnav families, vegetables such as gourd or cucumber, fish, etc, are ritually sacrificed to avoid bloodshed. Interestingly, at the illustrious Pathuriaghata Ghosh Bari in North Kolkata, curious sugar structures called Mata Chini are sacrificed.</p><h2>Kumari Puja</h2><figure class="image"><img src="https://assets.zeezest.com/images/PROD_Durga-puja-rituals-inside-image-5_1633953269881.jpg"></figure><p>Another important part of Durga Puja is Kumari Puja or the symbolic worship of prepubescent girls as an embodiment of the Goddess’s Kumari form. At the Mallick Bhawan in Posta, in North Kolkata’s Burrabazar, where Durga Puja was started 168 years ago by Bihari Lal Mallick, Kumari Puja is accompanied by Shadhaba Puja, where a <i>shadhaba</i> or a married Brahmin woman is worshipped as the <i>shadhaba</i> form of Durga. Also, here Goddess Durga is brought home and later carried out for immersion on the shoulders of family members. “In the past, the idol would be propped on two boats and carried to the middle of the river, where the boats parted slowly and the idol descended into the waters,” says Ayandrali Dutta, a member of the household.</p><h2>Avian messengers</h2><p>While most of these traditions are centuries old, some old traditions have been adapted to the times and age. At Shovabazar Ranir Bari, a branch of the Sovabazar Rajbari, known for its Durga Puja started by Raja Naba Krishna Deb in honour of the British victory at the Battle of Plassey, the old tradition of flying Neelkantha birds (Indian Roller) before immersion ceremony (the birds, it was believed, carried the news of Durga’s journey to Kailash to her husband Shiva) has been replaced with a new one of immersing clay models of the bird in the Ganges.</p><h2>Good luck charms</h2><p>Besides, different regions of Bengal have their own unique <i>lokachar</i> (popular customs). For example, as Chitra Deb writes in her Bengali essay, <i>Mahilader Chokhe Durga Puja</i> (Durga Puja As Viewed By Women), refers to how in some parts of erstwhile East Bengal, on Dashami (in some places, the day after Dashami) it was considered auspicious to see a fresh pot of yoghurt and a whole fish first thing in the morning. It was a guarantee for good luck on journeys round the year. </p><p>Kalyani Dutta in her book, <i>Thod Bori Khada</i>, which offers comforting glimpses into the life and times of early 20th century Kolkata, recalls the simpler Durga Pujas of yore. Dutta writes about the tradition of drinking <i>shiddhir sharbat</i> (cannabis infused sharbat) made with a mix of thick, palm candy syrup and nuts after partaking in <i>prasad</i> on the last day of Durga Puja. <i>Shiddhi </i>is still a part of Bijoya celebrations, albeit in hushed notes. </p><p>AlsoRead2</p><h2>Common Durga Puja rituals</h2><p>Here are few common Durga Puja rituals one could partake in. However, this year some of these rituals might be impossible to conduct or participate in due to COVID-19 protocols. </p><p>1. At the crack of dawn on Maha Saptami witness the unique ritual of Kola Bou Snan or Nabapatrika Snan at one of the Ghats along the Ganges. Nine plants, each representing a form of Durga, are ritually tied together and bathed in the Ganges before being draped in a saree, anointed with vermillion and carried to the site of puja accompanied by the sound of a conch shell and <i>dhaak</i>.</p><p>2. On Maha Ashtami, offer <i>pushpanjali</i>, an offering of flowers to the Goddess, at one of the pandals. This year, in view of the pandemic, most puja committees have strict restrictions and a code of conduct in place for those keen on offering <i>pushpanjali</i>.</p><figure class="image"><img src="https://assets.zeezest.com/images/PROD_Durga-puja-rituals-inside-image-3_1633953254747.jpg"></figure><p>3. Help light the 108 lamps during the Shandhi Puja.</p><p>4. An exciting Durga Puja tradition is the <i>dhunuchi naach</i>, where devotees dance in front of the goddess with clay pots full of burning frankincense. Thrill-induced gasps guaranteed.</p><figure class="image"><img src="https://assets.zeezest.com/images/PROD_Durga-puja-rituals-inside-image-4_1633953224123.jpg"></figure><p>5. On Mahadashami, participate in and witness the Baran or the farewell rituals typically performed by married women. It’s a poignant ritual, the sadness in the air is palpable. The fun part however is the <i>sindoor khela</i>, that follows. Typically, married women clad in red-and-white, smear Sindoor or vermillion powder on each other’s foreheads and cheeks. </p>

Some of these customs and traditions transcend religion and are a glimpse into social and cultural constructs. 

From offering Goddess Durga Pickles and Bori or lentil dumplings to Sandhi puja and Sindoor Khela, find out more about the rituals of Durga Puja

What are the Customs, Traditions and Rituals of Durga Puja

Curious Case Of Durga Puja Rituals That Make This Festival Special

Festivals

The very best of Kolkata’s brekkie offerings – from rich Mughlai staples to sandwiches!

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<p>On a Sunday afternoon in early September, Sudipto Ghosh, a sculpting artist, and painter, joined a busy community of proficient idol makers in Kumortuli—a shadowed potters' quarter nestled along an elevated freeway near northern Kolkata. The seven-kilometre alley (where <i>kumor </i>translates to potter and <i>tuli</i> translates to the colony) was closed for sale due to the rain that day. The only people that came through were artists and visitors, like me, who would only stop by to awe over these marvellous pieces of creation. Hindu priests lounged on the steps of temples dotting the neighbourhood. Children jumped into splashes of water to play before the rain would send them back home again. A photographer chased the daylight to capture an unfinished Durga idol; a painter shooed some dogs away from an imposing effigy that was yet to be taken in for the night.</p><figure class="image"><img src="https://assets.zeezest.com/images/PROD_Kumortuli-inside-image-1_1633673153529.jpg"></figure><p>“The best time to observe the chaos is right before sundown,” said Sudipto as he ushered me inside his workshop and helped me to the roof for a view of the place.</p><p>“Kumortuli is not just a neighbourhood or community, it is where a century-old tradition brought people together who couldn’t express their devotion and thoughts through words,” he added.  </p><p>AlsoRead0</p><h2>Kumortuli’s colonial beginnings</h2><figure class="image"><img src="https://assets.zeezest.com/images/PROD_Kumortuli-inside-image-2_1633673161631.jpg"></figure><p>Kumortuli—home of the god makers—is a 300-year-old community of monumental sculpture and effigy makers who craft elaborate depictions of several Hindu gods and goddesses building up to the annual four-day religious festival of Durga Puja—or natively pronounced, Durga Pujo. Head up the main street, named after the colony, and you will find a couple of hundred artists jostling for space in windowless rooms, with a faint fragrance of paint and petrichor wafting around.</p><p>The history of this place can be traced back to the British regime when different regions or districts would be allocated for particular crafts and their people. Kumortuli found itself as Coomartolly, an arid neighbourhood near the ghats of the Hooghly, and evolved into a vibrant art enclave isolated from the bustle of Kolkata—a city being rapidly gentrified into modernization.</p><figure class="image"><img src="https://assets.zeezest.com/images/PROD_Kumortuli-inside-image-4_1633673187143.jpg"></figure><p>But the becoming of Kumortuli is a tale embedded in history—one of coincidence and British ruling—that plagued the state in the early 17th century. It is believed that when Robert Clive, a military commander, who exercised major political influence in the East was invited by Rajbari's founder, Nabakrishna Deb, to celebrate the win in the battle of Plassey, the first grand celebration of Durga Puja was observed. The news of a grand celebration that saw participation from a general and many other high-ranking officials spread like wildfire—and since then, every year a competition sprouted up in the middle class to put up the grandest display. This was when the potters in the area would receive countless commissions to create life-sized idols that would be decorated gloriously to reflect the enthusiasm.</p><p>AlsoRead1</p><h2>The season of Durga Pujo</h2><figure class="image"><img src="https://assets.zeezest.com/images/PROD_Kumortuli-inside-image-5_1633673198738.jpg"></figure><p>When the summer slows down to make way for the autumn winds, flurry white shrubs of <i>kashphul</i> dance about to mark the beginning of Ashvina (September–October). “This is when Kumortuli changes from a quaint colony to a museum of diverse art forms,” says Aarti Bayoni, a native, who grew up among families who devoted their lives to this community. “I always recommend visiting Kumortuli when the Kash arrives, and leave when the idols do. It is the best time of the year to immerse yourself in its true culture, witness the magical skills that these artisans showcase, and most importantly, revel in the raw festive spirit before making your way to the customary celebrations.”</p><p>I found myself accompanying a group of sculptors as they began the step of sculpting—procuring <i>‘punya mati’</i> or blessed soil from the banks of the river Ganga. This time of the year a small delta near the Hooghly is more populated than the adjacent cityscape, with hundreds of Hindu priests gathering to embark on the forthcoming journey.</p><figure class="image"><img src="https://assets.zeezest.com/images/PROD_Kumortuli-Banner-A_1633761523488.jpg"></figure><p>But surprisingly, the mud isn’t the foundation of these relics. Instead, the exoskeleton is often cast in iron frames, supported by straws, bamboo husk, and more to bring about the structure. I would stay up late to observe meticulous drawings that would turn into a creative rendition of Goddess Durga as depicted in the mythological script of Veda. Moreover, the posture, expression and facial features are kept aligned with those in the popular media. But the entire festivity also pays an ode to several other deities that together make a <i>chala</i> or idol unit. The central figure is of Durga, accompanied by a lion or tiger; Ganesha with his mouse compatriot; Kartika followed by a peacock; Lakshmi and Saraswati seated on their swan and owl respectively.</p><p>AlsoRead2</p><p>I would come by through the window so that I don’t accidentally snap a fragment of the still fragile models, and look at them from afar until they would be painted and shipped away. “It is the hardest part of the job. We work on these portraits for months, and they often become a part of our family,” says Roshan Chakraborty, a third-generation artist in Kumortuli, who started this work alongside his grandfather and hopes to continue the legacy, passing it down to his family as an heirloom.</p><figure class="image"><img src="https://assets.zeezest.com/images/PROD_Kumortuli-inside-image-7_1633673215700.jpg"></figure><p>“Kumortuli is art and it is legacy. It is history, and it is family. Most people who travel to this corner do so for vibrantly painted effigies and cultural quirks; but if you want to experience the true essence of this colony, come and stay—for the process, for the season, to see clay transform into art,” adds Chakraborty.</p>

West Bengal

From simple to statement-making looks, navigate the festive season like a star wearing a salwar kameez.   

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<p><i>Aswiner sarada prate beje utheche alokomonjir,</i><br><i>Dharanir bohirakashi ontorhito meghomala;</i><br><i>Prakritir anatarakashe jagorito jyotirmoyi jaganmatar aagomono-barta,</i><br><i>Anandamoyi moha mayar padodhyani;</i><br><i>Ashima chande beje uthe roop-lok o raso-lok e aane naba bhabomadhurir sanjeeban,</i><br><i>Tai anandita shyamoli matrikar chinmoyi ke mrinmoyi te aabahon…</i><br><i>Aaj chitchaktiroopini bishwajanonir sharodo-sribimondita protima;</i><br><i>Mondire mondire dhyan bodhita…</i></p><p>If you read these lines and didn’t understand a word, don’t worry—I’ve got context for you ahead.</p><p>If you read these lines and were filled with nostalgia, then you know what I am talking about.</p><p>For 35 years, I have woken up to these lines blaring on the radio at 4 a.m. every year on Mahalaya. For a lot of Bengalis, like me, whether in West Bengal or outside, these lines are synonymous with Mahalaya. They mark the beginning of the countdown to Durga Puja. But what is Mahalaya?</p><h2>The history of Mahalaya</h2><p>In the Hindu calendar, Mahalaya marks the end of <i>Pitru-Paksha,</i> and the beginning of Devi-Paksha. It falls five to seven days (depending on the <i>panchang</i>) before Durga Puja. On the last day of <i>Pitru-Paksha</i>, on Mahalaya, temples and the ghats of the Ganges are filled with people offering prayers to their ancestors (<i>tarpan</i>). As the beginning of Devi-Paksha, it marks the beginning of the holiday and get-together plans for the much-anticipated Durga Puja.</p><p>AlsoRead0</p><p>As per the scripture of <i>Chandi Path</i>, Mahalaya is the day when Goddess Durga defeated the demon king, Mahishasura—giving her the epithet Mahishasurmardini. As per popular belief, this also marks the day when she begins her journey to her maternal home with her four children from her husband’s home in Mount Kailash. The day she reaches her maternal home marks the beginning of Durga Puja.</p><figure class="image"><img src="https://assets.zeezest.com/images/PROD_Mahalaya-inside-image-1_1633449585113.jpg"></figure><h2>The legacy of Mahalaya</h2><p>In most households, the story and the celebration of Mahalaya are passed on from one generation to another with the recitation of <i>Mahalaya Mahishasur Mardini</i>—the opening <i>shlokla </i>you read at the beginning. This early morning radio programme—4 a.m. to be precise—has become synonymous with the day.</p><p>But the original broadcast plan was never for Mahalaya. The programme first aired in 1931 on Akashvani (All India Radio) in West Bengal on the day of Durga Shashti at 6 a.m. It was only in 1937 that the broadcast was shifted to Mahalaya at 4 a.m. to mark the beginning of <i>Devi-Paksha</i>. </p><p>Scripted by Bani Kumar and composed by Pankaj Kumar Mullick, it was voiced by Birendra Krishna Bhadra. Stories tell us that every year the entire team underwent a rigorous, three-month rehearsal before the actual performance. The day of the performance was no less than an offering to the Goddess when everyone turned up in their best clothes and participated in a small puja in the studio before beginning. The programme continued as a live performance till 1966 when it was first broadcasted in its pre-recorded format. Even after it shifted to the recorded format, rehearsals continued, and no artist—senior or junior—could take a day off.</p><p>AlsoRead1</p><p>The impact has been such that even an attempt to replace Bhadra with the Bengali superstar Uttam Kumar in 1976 fell flat. In an attempt to revamp All India Radio programmes, <i>Mahalaya Mahishasur Mardini </i>was re-composed, and re-recorded with Kumar replacing the voice of Bhadra. It was also renamed <i>Durga Durgatiharini</i>. But Kumar’s immense fan following and popularity could not save the programme. Bhadra’s rendition was immediately brought back. Ever since then, the man’s voice has tied families and generations together. For the curious souls, you will find Kumar’s rendition on YouTube.</p><p>The programme has also been translated into Hindi with a similar orchestration and is broadcast pan-India at the same time. And for those outside the country, a simple YouTube search gives you access to the entire original recording.</p><h2>The day of Mahalaya</h2><figure class="image"><img src="https://assets.zeezest.com/images/PROD_Mahalaya-inside-image-2_1633449607648.jpg"><figcaption>© Pixabay</figcaption></figure><p>If the ritual on the ghats of the Ganges is not up your alley, there is another ritual that takes place at the same time. The potters of Kumortuli in Kolkata choose the first hour of dawn for the auspicious <i>ChokkhuDaan </i>or offering eyes to the idol of Goddess Durga. The ritual is carried out by the senior-most members of the artisan community. This is the final touch to the idol before she is sent to her maternal home. If you can make it to Kumortuli at that hour and are lucky to witness the performance, you will agree that the feeling cannot be described in words.</p><p>You can also choose to spend the day shopping and enjoying Pujo special foods around the city. From your local restaurant to popular food joints and sweet shops, everyone will have something to offer. As it marks the beginning of the countdown to Durga Pujo, you will also find attractive offers on retail purchases all around the city.</p><p>Be sure to plan well because the streets will be full. Finding a cab can be a task—take the tram. Yes, they are slow but they are the best way to see this old matriarch of a city prepare to welcome her daughter home.</p><p>AlsoRead2</p><h2>What does Mahalaya mean for Gen Z?</h2><p>The 4 a.m. ritual is fading away fast. A friend once said that it is an ‘ungodly’ hour to wake up. Irony much! But Gen Z cannot be discounted in its enthusiasm. You may not hear every neighbour listening to the radio programme nowadays, but Gen Z knows their Mahalaya.</p><p>“I don’t wake up for the radio programme but I listen to the recording on YouTube every year. It is like a habit,” says Ishan Goswami, a first-year student at Jadavpur University. Echoing the sentiment, Anushka Biswas, a final year student at Ashutosh College says, “Since my grandmother listens to the programme every year, I don’t have much choice. For me, it is less about the programme and more about spending those few hours with my family.”</p><p>Mahalaya is also proving to be a good excuse for the youngsters to plan a trip around the city. “Usually, it is difficult for me and my friends to catch up because of class timings. Last year, we could hardly meet during the Pujo days because of the pandemic. But this year we have planned to meet up early in the morning (not before 10 a.m.) and eat our way around all our favourite food spots in the city,” says Shubhashish Dutta, a class 12 student.</p><p>Whatever may be the reason, Mahalaya continues to be the day that turns anglicized Bengalis and new generation Bongs all across the globe into true-blue Bangali. If you want to see us in our full spirit, mark your calendar for October 6, 2021.</p><p>See you then!</p>

The multi-faceted actor gives a peek into the immersive world of preparing for the character of Aziz Ali in his film, 'Toofaan'.

Actor Farhan Akhtar shares how he prepared for the role of a boxer for his film Toofaan. For more, read ZeeZest.com

Interview with Farhan Akhtar on playing Aziz Ali in Toofaan

It Is Imperative For An Artiste To Keep Pushing The Envelope: Farhan Akhtar

For the role of Shaybani Khan in 'The Empire', the actor reveals how he prepped with playlists, panthers, and more.  

In an interview with Zee Zest, actor Dino Morea talks about preparing for his role in The Empire based on Mughal era in India and his hiatus from films.

Interview With Actor Dino Morea from The Empire show | Zee Zest

Dino Morea: My Love For Acting Never Went Away 

<p>Some actors burst onto the scene with one superhit and attain overnight stardom. Others build a following and credibility slowly and steadily through careful choice of meaningful cinema and interesting roles. Vicky Kaushal, the current national heartthrob, has the rare quality of being both an actor and a star. And he wears both hats effortlessly. One look at his career, and you know he is here for the long haul. </p><p>Breaking into the lead with Neeraj Ghaywan’s award-winning film <i>Masaan</i> in 2015 was a risk, but one that paid off handsomely. Kaushal bagged the best debut award at International Indian Film Academy (IIFA) Awards and Screen Awards for his role. Not falling for the commercial race to the top, Kaushal kept choosing meaningful roles. </p><figure class="media"><oembed url="https://www.instagram.com/p/CU4cLpaoM-N/?utm_medium=share_sheet"></oembed></figure><p>In 2018, he delivered the two biggest hits of the year, <i>Sanju</i> and <i>Raazi</i>, but was willing to let co-stars Ranbir Kapoor and Alia Bhatt, respectively, walk away with the lead roles. The very same year, he experimented with smaller productions for OTT platforms—<i>Love Per Square Foot</i> and <i>Lust Stories</i>. He was still waiting to make that decisive move towards superstardom.</p><p>In 2019, the pecking order of leading men in Bollywood changed with Vicky Kaushal announcing his entry to the very top with his National Award-winning performance in <i>URI: The Surgical Strike</i>. Rest, as they say, is history. Balancing his roles with commercial acumen and critical sensibilities, Kaushal is now ready with the release of Shoojit Sircar’s magnum opus, <i>Sardar Udham</i>, on Amazon Prime Video.</p><p>In an interview with Zee Zest, ahead of the launch of the film, Vicky Kaushal shares how the role of Udham Singh has changed him as a person. <i>Edited excerpts.</i></p><h2>1. Why do you think it was important to tell the story of Sardar Udham Singh?</h2><figure class="image"><img src="https://assets.zeezest.com/images/PROD_Vicky-Kaushal-inside-image-2_1634127763168.jpg"></figure><p>Many of India’s freedom fighters get lost in our history books with just a mention in a single line or a paragraph or, at the maximum, a page. Sardar Udham Singh was one of them. His is not a story that is widely documented in our books. Hence, it is extremely important to tell his story, be it through films, poetry, novels, scriptures, or any other way. I have been fortunate enough to be part of a film that will showcase his life, which needed to be shared far and wide, particularly for our future generations. Sacrifices and beliefs of freedom fighters such as Sardar Udham Singh are something that must not be forgotten, because the freedom that we, as a young nation, savour today, we owe all to them.</p><p>AlsoRead0</p><h2>2. Your family hails from Hoshiarpur, not so far from Jallianwala Bagh, what did you know about Udham Singh before being a part of the film?</h2><p>As I was growing up, I have always heard about Udham Singh’s life and his heroic adventures from my grandparents. He has always come across as an intriguing individual who was an important part of our history. There are many different stories and legends about him, most of them are not widely documented. Udham Singh’s character has always been a mysterious one for me, so I immersed myself completely with the hope of being guided by Shoojitda (Sircar).</p><h2>3. How was your experience of shooting with Shoojit Sircar? </h2><figure class="media"><oembed url="https://www.instagram.com/p/CUdAk8kIjsa/"></oembed></figure><p>Shoojitda<i> </i>has been living with this story for over two decades now, backed with an extraordinary amount of research. So, I knew the story was in good hands. Very early on when I started discussing the film with him, I understood that there was only one way to do this; I had to entirely surrender to his vision. After working together on this film, we have truly connected in more ways than one and it has been an incredible learning experience for me, personally.</p><h2>4. Irrfan Khan was to play Udham Singh as per the original plan. How does it feel to step into his shoes?</h2><p>Irrfan <i>saab </i>is one of the finest actors that the world has witnessed to date. Nobody can fill his shoes; it is a big responsibility and to have been selected to play the same part as he would have is an absolute honour.   </p><p>AlsoRead1</p><h2>5. <a href="https://zeezest.com/culture/interview-with-actor-amol-parashar-on-feels-like-ishq-zee-zest-825">Amol Parashar</a> is playing the role of Shaheed Bhagat Singh, can you share how have you both portrayed the relationship between Udham Singh and Bhagat Singh?</h2><figure class="media"><oembed url="https://www.instagram.com/p/CUoxXY3IL_e/"></oembed></figure><p>Amol is a brilliant actor who has effortlessly taken on the mantle of Shaheed Bhagat Singh. One can only imagine the pressure to do justice to such a historical icon. I am very excited to show the camaraderie between the two on-screen, which is seldom seen on such a scale. For Sardar Udham Singh, Shaheed Bhagat Singh was not just an inspiration and a friend, but a brother and guru, who truly inspired him in his quest to achieve India’s freedom. This strong bond they shared will be seen through the film.</p><h2>6. How difficult was it to portray the different phases of Udham Singh's life?</h2><figure class="image"><img src="https://assets.zeezest.com/images/PROD_Vicky-Kaushal-inside-image-3_1634127825773.jpg"></figure><p>How does one play the part of a legendary figure whose name and sacrifice are forever etched in our history? It is a responsibility beyond my wildest dreams. It was indeed a very demanding role, both physically and emotionally, but his life and journey are such an important piece in history, that we must not forget them. If I have succeeded to bring forth a little bit of Udham Singh’s dedication, his sacrifices across different phases of his life, it will be worth it. I am definitely no longer the same person as before after playing this role.</p><h2>7. You have played very different roles in <i>Masaan</i>, <i>Raazi</i>, <i>URI: The Surgical Strike</i> and <i>Sardar Udham, </i>how do you choose a film? </h2><p>I am always hungry for roles that move me. I have never planned my career trajectory in terms of the films I take up. My mantra has always been to feel excited and passionate about the story or the character that I would enjoy as an audience. While I definitely try to do different things through my various roles, I primarily select my films based on my instincts.</p><figure class="image"><img src="https://assets.zeezest.com/images/PROD_Vicky-Kaushal-inside-image-4_1634127866127.jpg"></figure><h2>8.  Tell us about your future slate of movies. And which ones are you super excited about?</h2><p>I am very excited to be back on screen; playing the amazing roles that I have been waiting to show the world. But for now, I am thrilled to be able to present <i>Sardar Udham</i>, and can’t wait to see the audience’s reactions when it releases on October 16, 2021on Amazon Prime Video.</p><p>AlsoRead2</p><h2>9.  From assisting Anurag Kashyap in <i>Gangs of Wasseypur </i>to being the lead in <i>Manmarziyaan,</i> how has been your journey with him?</h2><p>I think Anurag sir and Shoojit sir are similar in many ways. They don’t have a textbook way of shooting a film. They both are absolutely fantastic editors and they have their edits running in their minds while they are shooting for the films. They both have a very fluid way of executing the film. As an actor, I feel like you are thrown into an extremely real world and you start reacting to that world. With Anurag sir, my journey started in 2010 by assisting him on <i>Gangs of Wasseypur</i> and that I think became my film school as it taught me a lot. It taught me the basics of how a film is made, how people come together and work towards making a film, and that I will always be grateful for.</p><figure class="media"><oembed url="https://www.instagram.com/p/CUzMV8OPqAv/?utm_medium=share_sheet"></oembed></figure><h2>10. You come from a Bollywood family. Your father is a legendary action director; two brothers are actors, do you discuss work at home? </h2><p>If you happen to visit my home, it's a very non-filmy home. You will feel as if you’ve come to a mini-Punjab. It’s my dad, my mom, my younger brother, Sunny and I: we all live together. My father is also from the industry and I have learned a lot of things from him. We do discuss work; I do bounce off my scripts with him and I do share regular updates like how my day went and what shoot I did on that day and such stuff but apart from we are not a filmy family at all.</p><figure class="table"><table><tbody><tr><td><h2>Quick Bites with Vicky Kaushal</h2><figure class="image"><img src="https://assets.zeezest.com/images/PROD_Vicky-Kaushal-inside-image-1_1634127810253.jpg"></figure><ul><li><span style="color:hsl(0,0%,0%);">Favourite city in the world - Mumbai</span></li><li><span style="color:hsl(0,0%,0%);">Three places on your bucket list - I would say Bhutan, Leh-Ladakh and the countryside of Japan</span></li><li><span style="color:hsl(0,0%,0%);">Favourite cuisine - Mexican and Indian</span></li><li><span style="color:hsl(0,0%,0%);">Vicky can cook: (To save life) Maggi, (to impress someone) Egg Bhurji</span></li></ul></td></tr></tbody></table></figure>

The actor, seen in and as Sardar Udham Singh, shares more about how this role has changed him as a person. 

Actor Vicky Kaushal speaks to  Zee Zest about his titular role in Sardar Udham, how it has changed him and working with directors Shoojit Sircar and Anurag Kashyap.

Interview with actor Vicky Kaushal on Sardar Udham

Vicky Kaushal Opens A Glorious Chapter From Our History Books

Bollywood 

Movies

The beloved author shares nuggets of knowledge on being a writer in the 21st century.

In a conversation with Zee Zest, author Ruskin Bond shares tips on being a writer and his digital avatar. Full interview on ZeeZest.com

Interview with Author Ruskin Bond on Online Classes | Zee Zest

Ruskin Bond On Dealing With A Writer's Block And Writing In The Digital Age 

The 'Bareilly ki Barfi' director talks about her love for nature, why death plays an important role in love stories, and her upcoming biopic ‘Murthy’.

The 'Bareilly ki Barfi' director talks about her love for nature as a force of rootedness, why death plays an important role in love stories, and her upcoming biopic ‘Murthy’. Read full story on ZeeZest.com.

Interview: Ashwiny Iyer Tiwari Talks About Her Debut Novel Mapping Love

Ashwiny Iyer Tiwari On Her Debut Novel Mapping Love

<p>Vadehra Art Gallery, Delhi, presents historian and author William Dalrymple’s solo exhibition titled ‘In Search of Ancient India’. The show will be on view till November 3, 2021. The photographs exhibited in this show record the first stage of the travels and research for Dalrymple’s next book, <i>The Golden Road</i>. Born in Scotland in 1965, Dalrymple is known for his travel writings and historical writings on India. He is also the founder and co-director of the Jaipur Literature Festival. The author, photographer, and curator lives and works between India and Scotland. </p><p><i><strong>Edited Excerpts.</strong></i></p><h2>1. How did the idea for this exhibition germinate? </h2><figure class="image"><img src="https://assets.zeezest.com/images/PROD_Ratnagiri-doorway_1634879476539.jpg"></figure><p>It is actually a byproduct of a new book project, <i>The Golden Road</i>. After completing <i>The Company Quartet</i>, I’m now back to my old love—archaeology. I started out as an archaeologist, before turning into an author. This project allowed me to go back to my first love, which is early Buddhist art. This is something I have been meaning to work on for decades and these photographs are part of that research. I started posting these pictures on Instagram and soon enough the idea of the exhibition developed. You could say, this exhibition is the best of Insta!</p><h2>2. You were always interested in photography. So did a photographer metamorphose into a writer or vice versa?</h2><p>My love for photography started as a childhood hobby when my father gifted me a camera at the age of seven. Also, photography goes very well with my work and allows me to see the history that I read about and write about. It’s a very satisfying thing to have a record of your travels. The first thing I do when I arrive at an amazing temple or archaeological site is to photograph it. In a sense, it helps me focus. </p><h2>3. Tell us more about William Dalrymple, the photographer?</h2><p>Well, unlike most photographers, I use a smartphone camera. The other trait my photographs have is that they are always black and white. I believe it is a stronger medium than colour. It makes for more powerful and moody images and emphasises signal, patterns, and form. </p><p>AlsoRead0</p><h2>4. Take us through the work at the exhibition?</h2><figure class="image"><img src="https://assets.zeezest.com/images/PROD_Belur_1634879443337.jpg"></figure><p>The images encompass the beautiful ancient sites in India—Guptas and Pallavas. There are even images from Gandharva sites in Pakistan as well as Sri Lanka. This exhibition also covers fairly recent travels to Madhya Pradesh, Karnataka, Pallava monuments around Mahabalipuram, Kanchivapuram, Ellora Ajanta, and the Chalukya sites. The photographs exhibited in this show record the first stage of the travels and research for my new project, <i>The Golden Road</i>—which aims to record the artistic and cultural achievements of ancient India and show how their influence diffused in Asia first and then the rest of the world. </p><h2>5. You say that Western China to the Hindu Kush was largely dominated by Indic ideas, art, science, languages, and religions. Can you elaborate on this?</h2><figure class="image"><img src="https://assets.zeezest.com/images/PROD_Met-Celestial-Dancer-2_1634879464362.jpg"></figure><p>For most of its later medieval and modern history, it was India’s fate to be on the receiving end of cultural influence—and cultural dictation—from other civilisations. But for a full millennium before then, from about 200 BC to 1200 AD, India was a massive and confident exporter of its own civilisation in all its forms. The rest of Asia was the willing and eager recipient of a startlingly comprehensive mass transfer of Indian soft power, in culture, religion, art, music, dance, technology, astronomy, mathematics, medicine, mythology, language, and literature. The influence is still clear from place dotting the map all the way from Kandahar (Gandhara) to Singapore (Singhapura).</p><h2>6. India was a confident exporter of its own civilisation. How did it become a country on the receiving end of cultural influence from other civilisations?</h2><p>It is quite simple—there was nothing more to export. It happens with all civilisations, all the time. After you are done influencing other cultures, there comes a time when you take a step back.</p><p>AlsoRead1</p><h2>7. Of all your travels, which site left a lasting impression?</h2><p>I was awestruck by Mahabalipuram and the various sites in Madhya Pradesh; also, Ajanta-Ellora. There are two caves in Ajanta that date back almost 800 years. It was fascinating to be allowed to give them a closer look. Now with the renovation work done there, the site has become even more appealing.</p><figure class="media"><oembed url="https://www.instagram.com/p/CU6-2HhIPds/"></oembed></figure><h2>8. Will there be more shows?</h2><p>This exhibition offers the first glimpse into my book. It shows my travels around India, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka. Naturally, there will be future shows which will extend the project around the rest of South-East Asia, covering Indonesia and Cambodia. This exhibition covers the gorgeous Bodhisattvas of Gandhara through the Kushan and Gupta masterpieces of Northern India to the great Chalukya temples of Karnatka, the Pallava sculptures of Tamil Nadu, and the stupas of Sri Lanka. This exhibition, “In Search of Ancient India”, gives a glimpse of one of the world’s greatest civilisations at its most creative and self-confident.</p><h2>9. What next?</h2><p>Right now I’m exploring the Musee Guimet in Paris. There are so many works there that correspond to the Sanchi-era Buddhist structures. The Musee Guimet has one of the world’s greatest collections of Buddhist and Hindu art from Cambodia and Vietnam. They also have collections from Central Asia and Afghanistan.</p><p><i>The show can be viewed virtually on vadehraart.com.</i></p>

The Scottish historian and writer explores the era of the Guptas, Gandharas and the Pallavas through his camera for his new book, The Golden Road. 

Author William Dalrymple talks about his ongoing exhibition at Vadehra Art Gallery in Delhi. The photo exhibition is on till November 3. Read on zeezest.com. 

Interview with Author William Dalrymple on photography exhibition

William Dalrymple Turns Photographer In Search Of Ancient India

William Dalrymple

Author

Photographer

Photograph Exhibition

Vadehra Art Gallery

An actor on the verge of giving up his dream, returns in The Family Man Season 2. Find out what changed his life.

In a tell-all interview, actor Sharib Hashmi recounts his Bollywood journey, his experience working on The Family Man and learning from Manoj Bajpayee. Read Zeezest.com

Interview With Actor Sharib Hashmi of The Family Man I Zee Zest

Sharib Hashmi: Our Bond Is A Lot Like Srikant And JK’s

Mrunal Thakur gets candid about her role in 'Toofaan' and working with Farhan Akhtar in the boxing drama. 


Mrunal Thakur on her learnings from Toofaan co-actors Farhan Akhtar and Paresh Rawal, and director Rakeysh Om Prakash. read zeezest.com  

Interview with Mrunal Thakur on her role in Toofaan | Zee Zest    

'I Want The Audience To Remember Me As Ananya From Toofaan, Not Mrunal' 

interview with mrunal thakur toofan

<p>He didn’t have an easy journey to the top. Every time he thought he had delivered the best performance of his life, he was rejected by his industry. He remained focused on his acting and turned every rejection into a springboard for his next big performance. </p><p>He first burst into the scene with Shekhar Kapur’s <i>Bandit Queen</i> only to be lost and then found by Ram Gopal Varma in <i>Satya</i> (1998). Bhiku Mhatre’s characterisation won Manoj Bajpayee his first National Award. He followed that stellar feat immediately with a powerful performance in <i>Shool</i> in 1999. <i>Pinjar </i>got him his second National Award in 2003, followed by a lull till he roared the words “<i>karara jawab milega</i>" in Prakash Jha’s <i>Rajneeti</i> (2010). Anurag Kashyap’s two-part magnum opus <i>Gangs of Wasseypur</i> came next in 2012. He then collaborated with Neeraj Pandey for <i>Special 26</i>, <i>Naam Shabana</i>,<i> Aiyaary</i>,<i> </i>and the short film<i> Ouch. </i></p><p>In spite of award-winning performances for his gritty realistic portrayals in movies like <i>Aligarh</i> and <i>Bhonsle</i> (for which he won his third National Award), Bajpayee’s rare commercial success during this phase came with <i>Satyameva Jayate</i>. But superstardom was still eluding him till the streaming platforms started muscling their way into Indian homes. People were fed up with watching unrealistic song-and-dance Hindi masala potboilers and wanted more realistic and meaningful content. Amazon Prime dropped a Hindi spy thriller drama <i>The Family Man</i>, that featured Bajpayee as Srikant Tiwari—a middle-class man secretly working as an intelligence officer. The rest, as they say, is history. The streaming superstar is now enjoying a cult status, has no available dates in the next two years, and has even stopped reading new scripts. We caught up with Manoj Bajpayee who was busy shooting in Kerala for director Abhishek Choubey’s next. </p><p><strong>Edited Excerpts.</strong></p><h2>1. How does it feel to be the streaming superstar of India?</h2><p>I have personally never been after these tags like ‘superstar’ and ‘king’—I never actually believed in them. The belief was purely in working on the craft and looking for roles I wanted to play. I would always say: please give the superstar tag to somebody else and you give me interesting work, I will be much more grateful.</p><figure class="image"><img src="https://assets.zeezest.com/images/PROD_Manoj-inside-images-1_1633423133278.jpg"></figure><h2>2. Do you think the renewed focus on content and the craft of acting due to the rise of OTT platforms is an irreversible change?</h2><p>I hope that it’s an irreversible change because when the audience has a plethora of content to choose from, it will surely have an impact on their choices in the future. How things will pan out after everything becomes normal is something we are yet to experience. As far as the demand for quality content goes, it is here to stay and that will provide a positive impetus to filmmakers to tell interesting stories the way they want; and that’s a very healthy sign.</p><p>AlsoRead0</p><h2>3. You don't have dates for the next two years. How are you handling the situation?</h2><p>I don’t have dates purely because for many months we couldn’t shoot, and all the films that were supposed to have been shot during those days and released by now are still waiting for Manoj Bajpayee to go back to them and start shooting. Yes, I have an overcommitted slate and my focus at this point is to do justice to all of them. The backlog is my priority right now, I want to convey the same to all the makers who have been patiently waiting for me. And all the new work will be shot after I have delivered on my past commitments. It will take quite a long time. For that reason, I am not reading anything new—because even if I find something interesting, I will be unable to attach myself to those projects.</p><h2>4. Has <i>The Family Man Season 2 </i>been a career-changing project for you or was it just a part of the journey? </h2><p>By God’s grace, I have been getting work, respect, and honour in this industry. If you recall <i>The Family Man Season 1</i> was dropped on Prime Videos before the lockdown and was declared a runaway success. But the lockdown has definitely helped the audiences to see work they wouldn’t see in the theatres. A film like <i>Bhonsle</i>, which gave me my third national award, is very close to me. It took four years in the making and it took a lot out of us to organise the funds to make the film. Life was good anyway, OTT has added a new generation of the fanbase—which I would say is a gift to me.</p><figure class="image"><img src="https://assets.zeezest.com/images/PROD_Manoj-inside-images-2_1633423197560.jpg"></figure><h2>5. How is your family coping with your busy schedule?</h2><p>They are coping well. They have their own busy schedules. And if they have any gaps, they immediately join me wherever I am shooting. We, as parents insist that more than just attending classes online, our daughter should be exposed to different people, regions, and cultures. I am happy that in these one-and-half years, she has gone to every nook and corner of this country and really involved herself in mingling with people. I am happy that she is getting an education that otherwise wouldn’t be possible. When you are stuck in a small village due to the lockdown, you make the most of it. Never stay away from getting involved with the local culture—in fact, gain from it.</p><p>AlsoRead1</p><h2>6. Are you finally in a zen state or do you feel the pain of having to make the long journey from <i>Bandit Queen</i> to <i>The Family Man</i>?</h2><p>I was always in a zen state. There was a part of me that was angry, was fighting very hard to make a place of his own. But I never gave it up when it comes to fighting for my own space and my conviction, and that fight will always be on. If I feel I deserve something and people are not giving it to me, I will fight for my honour and that can’t be compromised.</p><h2>7. What would be your advice to the next struggling actor coming to Mumbai from Bihar via Delhi with Bollywood dreams?</h2><p>I am shy to advise anyone as everyone’s journey is very different. But if I have to, my advice would be to be sure of one’s skill; if you don’t know anyone in the industry, your skill becomes your master, mentor, and guide. Everything else stems from your skill. And skill gives you confidence. So, please give time to learning the skill and when you come here, give it your all…don’t think of going back as that’s not even an option. Fight till you fall, as there is no other way. At the same time with all your anger, you have to be humble and grateful for all that you get.</p><figure class="image"><img src="https://assets.zeezest.com/images/PROD_Manoj-inside-images-4_1633423257256.jpg"></figure><h2>8. Your thoughts on fellow actors: Nawazuddin Siddiqui, Kay Kay  Menon and Pankaj Tripathi. </h2><p>I always maintain that Nawaz is one of a kind—his journey has been inspirational. Where he has reached today is purely because of his talent. He has shown the world that if you are talented and not ready to break, you will achieve success. If not in five years, in 15 for sure. Nawaz has a lot left in him and I am confident that he will go further and further from here. I have learned how to play a certain character or a situation from his performances. I keep observing his hard work, his choice of films, and his journey. I simply love him for what he has achieved.</p><p>Kay Kay’s craft is enviable. His discipline, his conduct as a husband and as a friend—who wouldn’t want to be like him! With everything that he does, he teaches you; he unknowingly keeps giving tips about how to be a good actor or a good person. He is such a graceful, skillful and knowledgeable actor.</p><p>Pankaj is an actor with loads of humility. He doesn’t forget his roots. He believes his performances are not different from the experiences he has had from his childhood. His root is his identity and he makes his roots his strength. That’s how he performs so beautifully. There is a lot to learn from him—on how he gives interviews, how he talks to people. These three gentlemen are not only supremely talented but they also have so much to teach anyone willing to learn.</p><p>I am in touch with all of them and what’s great about them is that no one wants to be better than anyone. We just want to do good films and keep working on the craft. And that’s the common reason why we all are very good friends.</p><p>AlsoRead2</p><h2>9. Name the next list of super actors.</h2><p>Pratik Gandhi is showing a lot of intent, he is conducting himself beautifully. Vijay Verma is choosing well, he is talented. So is Jaideep Ahlawat. In <i>Paatal Lok</i> he showed the depth with which he can carry a character. He can go on exploring any shot and that’s his strength. Rajkummar Rao is one person I admire so much for his conviction in his ability and his choices. There are far too many good actors who are showing loads of promise.</p><h2>10. How does Manoj Bajpayee relax?</h2><p>By being left alone. (Laughs). Reading, watching shows, and learning from others’ performances, sitting with my peers and learning from their criticisms, travelling to my village, to the mountains, to Delhi or to Goa. We, as a family, always travel light. We travel without any staff and try to explore different areas on our own. That’s our idea of relaxing. We are a team and we three musketeers enjoy each other’s company.</p><figure class="image"><img src="https://assets.zeezest.com/images/PROD_Manoj-inside-images-3_1633423244907.jpg"></figure><h2>11. Favourite food?</h2><p>Litti chokha from Bihar, butter chicken, and chole kulche from Delhi, Mutton and chawal from my village.</p><h2>12. Any dish that you like to cook?</h2><p>My father’s Bihari Mutton Curry. I am slowly learning to cook Indian dishes and I have started enjoying cooking with Indian masalas.</p>

The Family Man has catapulted actor Manoj Bajpayee into a new realm of fame. In an interview, he opens up about his journey to success in Bollywood.  

The Family Man actor Manoj Bajpayee opens up about his journey in Bollywood, life, and friends in the industry. Read zeezest.com