BENGALURU, FRIDAY, OCTOBER 1, 2021 | VOL: 11 � NO: 47

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 BENGALURU, FRIDAY, OCTOBER 1, 2021 | VOL: 11 � NO: 47

Genelia D’Souza
and Riteish
Deshmukh on
making reels,
their pandemic
project and
what the future
holds | P8
 pick of the week THE NEW INDIAN EXPRESS

things
FRIDAY, OCTOBER 1, 2021 | BENGALURU

to do Catch us online @
indulgexpress.com
Garden party
Amlaan Baag hosts a digital gardening workshop that’s perfect for those
who are new to gardening. The expert, who has a popular YouTube channel, will
teach you about the different varieties of soil, watering techniques and how to pick
the right pot for your plant. `450. October 2, 4 pm. Details: On Zoom

True colours
CRY (Child Rights and You) in
partnership with online platform
thecurators.art hosts a charity art
exhibition and sale titled Happy Childhoods
on the theme of childhood. Over 40 artists,
including names such as Gunjan
Shrivastava, Akshita Gandhi, Nishant
Dange and Afza Tamkant, have
displayed their works on the website.
Until October 7. Details: thecurators.art

Fear factor
Vocalist and composer Shilpa Ananth’s
music is described as avant-pop — a vibrant mix
of Indian melodies, jazz, R&B and funk. Her latest Talking shop
single, Fear, is an inspiring story of a woman as
Crafts Council of Karnataka is back with the
she overcomes her anxiety and regrets. The
popular artisans’ exhibition, Vastrabharana.
song has been released by the platform Maajja.
Expect over 50 stalls, including ajrakh-printed
Available on online streaming platforms
saris, jamdani weaves, indigo-dyed fabrics,
and textiles from award-winning weavers,
apart from jewellery, footwear and home
decor. Entry free. Until October 4.
At Karnataka Chitrakala Parishath,
Kumarakrupa Road.
Details: 22261816

Spiral
out
The Circle Community’s workshop
will teach participants how to make
floral mandalas. Titled Folk Mandala,
the digital event will guide you on
how to make the colourful, detailed
geometric patterns. The art form
also helps in mindfulness. Entry
free. October 1, 5 pm.
Details: On Zoom

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dub, minimal and classical musical influences. HOSH will also be Ambattur Industrial Estate,
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joined by Indian electronic act Ankytrixx. `999 upwards. October 1, Chennai-600058 or e-mail:
the products and services, in respect Indian delicacies such as biryani, pakodas, and appams and stew.
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 designer/showcase THE NEW INDIAN EXPRESS
FRIDAY, OCTOBER 1, 2021 | BENGALURU

fashion in conversation

FDCI X LFW’s GenNext winners, Twinkle Hanspal and

Deepit Chugh, talk about their journey and what to expect

MAKING THE CUT

TWINKLE
HANSPAL
T
ell us a little bit about
your background.
I have always had a
keen visual eye and
curiosity for design. I grad- THE FASHION DESIGN Council of India and Lakme Fashion Week coming together to host a joint fashion week earlier
uated from NIFT, New Delhi this year was an important moment in India’s fashion history. Now, they are set to stage the Winter/Festive
in 2015 and then worked showcase and as per usual, announced the winners of ‘GenNext’ — their talent discovery program. The 32nd batch,
with veteran designers
comprising just two designers — Twinkle Hanspal and Deepit Chugh — was shortlisted by a panel including names
like Ritu Kumar and
Anamika Khanna. like Tarun Tahiliani, former fashion editor, Priya Tanna, and Head of RISE Fashion and Lifestyle, Jaspreet Chandok.
Transforming my talent We caught up with the two designers to find out more about their labels, design philosophy and aesthetic.
into craft, I embarked on — Rashmi Rajagopal [email protected] @rushmeee
a career in design with
my range of ‘elevated
essentials.’ The gar-
ments are an extension
of my own wardrobe
DEEPIT CHUGH
T
which was built on my ell us a little bit about yourself.
thirst for finding wear- I am a bit of drifter – born in Ahmedabad, did my
able statement pieces. schooling from Mumbai, Bengaluru and Kolkata
and finally graduated in 2011 from NIFT, New Delhi.
What is the design philoso- Following my graduation, I had the opportunity to work
phy of your brand? with the likes of Triburg (a buying agency), Raymonds and
It boasts a minimal- Aditya Birla group. My first memory of designer clothing
yet-statement aes- was when I was 10 years old and my cousin (Yukta
thetic tied together Mookhey) was crowned Miss World 1999. I guess seeing
with elevated essen- the beautiful blue gown designed by Hemant Trivedi was
tials derived from something that stayed with me.
Indian classics.
Wearability and ver- Tell us about the aesthetic of your brand.
satility are at the core Line Outline, my label, is a range of ready-to-wear
of the brand. They clothing with a fluid narrative that blends clean tailored
are redefined to fit looks with sporty minimalism. The brand works closely
the sartorial needs of with local craftsmen and tailors, and explores the lines
a modern, indepen- between form and function driven by an experimental
dent woman. yet wearable approach. The aesthetic is carefully
created using a range of interesting fabrics and construc-
In an industry that is tion techniques.
extremely
competitive, how will What is your approach to sustainable fashion?
your label stand out? Sustainable fashion as the world sees it is mostly to do
Inclusivity is a fair- with fabrics and materials. I, on the other hand, feel that
ly new concept in its sustainability should also include business practices.
entirety in fashion but During the first lockdown, we realised a large number of
our approach towards it local tailors and craftsmen were completely out of work
has always been impartial. and had to shut down their businesses. This gave me the
Our clothing is made for idea to work with these tailors in order to maintain a
one and all without compro- healthy number of orders and I also trained them to
mising on our design lan- improve the quality of their finishing. This was helpful as
guage. This is what sets us they did not have to shut shop completely. This to me is one
apart. way of being sustainable. In addition, we have also intro-
duced recycled cotton hang tags, and labels made from
What is your take on recycled plastic bottles.
sustainable fashion?
The brand is not trend- What can one expect from your latest collection?
driven, hence we’ re The collection is called Chapter 2 - Idyll.
promoting sustainability The brand takes its visual inspiration
by creating timeless pieces from coloured brutalist architec-
that will last you a lifetime. ture for this collection which uses
soft cottons, cotton blends,
Tell us a little bit about your Bemberg silks and twill fabrics.
latest collection. It has minimalistic hand embroi-
The roots of the collection I dery like cording, pitta work and
am presenting at the joint zardosi which help elevate the
FDCI X Lakmé Fashion products. There is also a focus on
Week lie in celebrating clas- colour blocking and patter n
sic Indian silhouettes with play.
a contemporary twist.
Luxurious silks and breath- What are the most unique pieces from
able cottons together weave the collection ?
a timeless story. Statement I think the printed black Bemberg
inserts with dabka, fabric- silk shirt set is one of my most favourite
cording and linestitch form looks of the season. The fabric is very
a beautiful amalgamation fluid and feels really nice to touch. The
of precision and craftsman- abstract print also adds a fun street vibe to it. The
s h i p. T h e i d e a w a s t o minimalistic panelled bandhgalas are aninterestingupdate
showcase a very accessible to modern Indian attire. The cuts are classic, with cut and sew
approach to fashion detailing. The embroidered blazer in navy is also a must have.
through wearable state- It is a double-breasted style without lapels and features a
mentessentials. modern take on zardosi embroidery and cording.

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 cover
celeb/interview
story

PARTNERS IN L
Genelia D’Souza and Riteish D
their vega

B
OLLYWOOD’S MOST ADORED
couple, Genelia D’Souza and
Riteish Deshmukh, first met on
the sets of their debut movie
Tujhe Meri Kasam in 2003. After
the success of their first film,
both stars worked in many other
popular movies. Genelia went
onto become one of the top
actresses in the South Indian film indus-
tries with her hit movies like Boys, Satyam,
Happy and Bommarillu. She got back to
Bollywood with the the popular rom-com
Jaane Tu Ya Jaane Na. Meanwhile, Riteish
in conversation consolidated his position in the Hindi film
industry with movies such as Dhamaal,
Apna Sapna Money Money, the Housefull
franchise and Ek Villain.
In 2012, the duo surprised their fans when
they made their relationship official and
got married. Since then Genelia and Riteish
Deshmukh have been among the most popu-
lar couples of Bollywood. From being active
on social media, making entertaining reels
to even being paparazzi favourites along
with their children, the duo is giving major
c o u p l e g o a l s. T h e y a re re a l ly b i g o n
Instagram and post some quirky and fun
reels that have a huge following. We get can-
did with the star couple as we speak to them
about reels, real life and what the future
holds for them. Excerpts:

We love your reels. Which one of you is hooked to the

format?
RD: I think that would be me. I really enjoy
the format. It started with Tik Tok and then
we moved on to the reels. I have realised that
this is the kind of communication that I
enjoy with my fans. I would prefer posting a
reel over a picture, they are fun. I forced
Genelia to do a few with me and now she
makes her own reels and I participate in
them sometimes.

You both began your career about two decades ago

with Tujhe Meri Kasam and have been together since
then. What according to you is the key to a successful
relationship?
RD: When we were friends or dating for 10
years, it felt like marriage and now that we
are married for 10 years, the freshness of
dating still exists in our relationship, and
that is something that we truly enjoy. It is
always an ever-evolving process of trying to
find new things. It is like a house. You have
to clean it regularly for it to look spick and
span. If you don’t clean, the dust will settle
and it will look dirty. So, in relationships
that span decades, you have to keep evolving
and finding new things that excite you.

What have you learnt from each other over the years?
GD: I wasn’t really into art but Riteish
loves art. And, over the years, our holidays
have become about visiting museums and
spending time there, looking at art. It
wasn’t something on my to-do list ever but
I think with him, I have started enjoying a
lot of art. I also see my kids very involved
in art. At times, they express their emo-
tions through art, which I think is a beauti-
Genelia and Riteish ful medium. Besides art, he also made me
start working out. I was blessed all along

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 THE NEW INDIAN EXPRESS
FRIDAY, OCTOBER 1, 2021 | BENGALURU

Pandemic projects
Here are some of the other celebs

IFE, WORK & VEGGING OUT

from tinseltown who founded their
own start-ups during the pandemic

shmukh walk us through how they keep their romance fresh, parenthood,
journey and their shared love for Instagram reels. By Heena Khandelwal
Alia Bhatt
Alia Bhatt has now become an entrepreneur
and never felt the need to work out but once then a happier vegan. In fact, a large part of Genelia, you took a break of sorts after marriage and
as she launched a startup called Ed-a-
pregnancy sets in, you start getting com- our new venture came from our kids because came back under the spotlight just two years ago at
mamma. It provides sustainable clothes at a
fortable and become negligent towards after we retur ned from America, Ryaan Lakme Fashion Week Autumn-Winter 2019 when you
price ranging from `350 for children in the
your body, because kids and house matter came to me and said, “We have a dog, how walked the ramp for Saroj Jalan. Was taking a break a
age group of two to 14 years. Ed-a-mamma
more… But Riteish insisted that I go out can we eat meat?” He said it so innocently, conscious decision?
claims to have naturally sourced and sus-
there and work out to feel better and I think but it got us really thinking. GD: I look at my life in phases. Before mar-
tainable apparel for children. Alia launched
that really helped me, because that one riage, I was working for about 360 days a
the ecommerce website in April 2021.
hour is my hour and I think that’s a healthy year, we were literally in a long-distance
lifestyle. relationship and it worked. But, when we
got married, I wanted to have that kind of
How has having kids shaped your relationship? time with Riteish. And, when we had kids, I
GD: Our children’s childhood is very differ- wanted to give that part of me to the kids as
ent from ours, we didn’t have i-Pads or well. And I am glad that I took that call
phones, it was all about going out and play. because I saw so many little things, which
Unfortunately, our kids don’t have the same aren’t a part of any pregnancy book, which
and therefore we go out on a lot for treks are just your observations and they are
because we want to show them how amaz- miraculous. But once they were able to com-
ing nature is, that it is an important part of municate, I decided to do some work here
our being, and it also made us change our and there because I love my work and this Priyanka Chopra Jonas
lifestyle. industry. I have done good work and I want From opening New York restaurant Sona to
RD: One thing that I have learnt from my to do some more. launching haircare brand Anomaly, PeeCee
boys is to live in the moment. We are so busy has proven her entrepreneurial skills. Sona
planning for the future that we forget today Does it mean we are likely to see you soon on the big became fully operational in June this year in
but they are only interested in the present Chicken nuggets from Imagine Meats screen? What is it that would interest you? New York. On January 31, PeeCee also
moment. They are like ‘Baba, what are we GD: It doesn’t matter if I do something this introduced her sustainable haircare brand,
doing now?’ They make us live for now. year or next or the year after, but I am ready. Anomaly. From liquid and dry shampoo to
During the lockdown, whenever we had two I have been a part of so many industries but deep-conditioning masks and conditioners,
to three days to ourselves, we would pack So tell us about this pandemic project? Who came up not Marathi. I would love to do a Marathi the haircare brand offers vegan and
our bags and go somewhere nearby, spend with the name Imagine Meats? film, hopefully sometime soon. cruelty-free products.
that time in nature and come back. RD: After a year or so, I had started missing
meat. We were in America for a while in Riteish, you have been working on the Chhatrapati
Riteish, take us through your daddy duties and how between and there we happened to discover Shivaji Maharaj trilogy. Take us through that and your
good are you at them? good plant-based meat options but they other projects.
RD: We are talking on a day where I have were limited to burger patties and for some- RD: Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj is a very
already goofed up all my daddy duties so… one like me who has an Indian palate, it important film for us, which got a bit pushed
(laughs). But yes, I am attempting to fulfill couldn’t satiate my cravings. But, we got because of Covid-19 but we are happy that
my daddy duties but these online schools some of those patties home and Genelia we could spend that time developing it.
are very tough, especially for the age group decided to mince them and make kheema Nagraj Manjule (director of Sairat) and his
that my kids belong to — Ryaan is six and a out of it and when I had it, I was like ‘wow, I team are working really hard to get it right.
half and Rahyl is five. But, Genelia has am having mutton kheema’. I could sense a Since it is a trilogy, we have to write the
really aced it. However, when it comes to art happy feeling, which I had really missed. story arc for three parts and start develop-
and crafts, I shift in because it is something And, it was then that we thought why can’t ing the first. We are hoping to make some Malaika Arora
that I contribute to, otherwise, it is mostly we do it back in India and replace our announcements early next year. Reality show host and actress Malaika Arora
her... kebabs, tikkas and kheemas with plant- We are developing some exciting stuff in recently launched her own delivery-only
GD: Actually Riteish is mostly never around based options. And while we were working Marathi. If everything materialises then restaurant N.U.D.E (Nutritious. Undisguised.
to do these things but he never says no, on it, we were thinking on the lines of ‘imag- we will see Genelia doing a Marathi film Delicious. Eats ) Bowls that serves delicious
which is a good thing. Thankfully, he and I ine that it is a chicken’, ‘imagine that it is very soon. Currently, I have Netflix’s Plan A healthy food with the goodness of flavours.
have been partners in parenting, and I can’t mutton’, so I thought why not call it Imagine Plan B with Tamannaah Bhatia, I have fin- The actress conceptualised the venture to
imagine it otherwise because the person Meats. ished Kakuda for RSVP, which stars provide customers with nutritious, healthy
you trust the most with your kids after your- Sonakshi Sinha and there are a few projects meals in bowls without compromising on
self is your partner and if that person says How long did it take to get the texture and taste right? that I have ag reed to do, they will be taste and indulgence.
I can’t do it then your whole world crashes. What was your biggest revelation during this announced closer to filming.
He has done everything, from changing journey?
diapers to cleaning them up, and as much as GD: There are a lot of combinations and it
I do the majority of it, he never backs wasn’t as easy as taking a pea protein and
down. soy and mixing it together. One of the reve-
lations was that there are so many products
What made you guys turn vegetarian and how has the in this space and every day we learnt and we
journey been? are still learning how different products Rapid fire: Who among you?
RD: It was a mannat of sorts to give up on feel and taste closer to meat. And, the big- ■ Is the first to end a fight? Riteish
something that we really cherish. Besides, gest was understanding of how our meat is ■ Cracks better jokes? Riteish
there was this perpetual guilt for what we grown and not born. ■ Plans better vacations? Genelia
were doing to our environment and ani- RD: It took us two years to get where we are ■ Takes longer to dress? Riteish because he
mals. today. But, let me admit that there have been has no other work but to dress Sunny Leone
GD: My reasons were the same as Riteish. I many times that we have gone wrong with it. ■ Is more romantic? Genelia Actress Sunny Leone launched her own fash-
have always had a dog, and all my life, I felt At times, we would send the stuff back to ■ Is more patient? Riteish ion brand ‚ ‘Infamous by StarStruck, Lingerie
a sense of guilt because, on one hand, I love Berlin, saying this is not how we want it to be ■ Is more thoughtful? Genelia by Sunny Leone’ in Mumbai last year during
one animal and on another hand, I am eat- and send them kebabs from here (to help ■ Is more organised? Of course, Genelia the pandemic. Sunny’s fashion brand fea-
ing another animal. So, I was a guilty non- them understand better). Kudos to Genelia ■ Remembers important dates? Genelia. She tures mainly innerwear, loungewear and
vegetarian but it was very tough then to because she is the one who decided to pursue specifically remembers all those dates that accessories for its initial launch. The One
give up on the food as back then I used to a course in nutrition when we started this I want to forget. Night Stand actor is also a proud owner of a
consider vegetarian food to be just about company to understand plant-based nutri- ■ Makes better reels? Both of us beauty brand Star-Struck that features
potatoes and paneer. But, in the process, I tion better and then she started working make-up and beauty products.
ended up becoming a happy vegetarian and with chefs to get the recipes that we have.

11
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 music/dance/drama THE NEW INDIAN EXPRESS
FRIDAY, OCTOBER 1, 2021 | BENGALURU

culture

in conversation

LET THE
BEAT DROP
Goa-based Nathan Mendes joins
the Gully Gang Entertainment label
with his new EP, Way Too Messy

D
IVINE, THE POSTER tells us. He names musicians The album art
boy of Indian rap, started such as Juice WRLD, Eminem,
the music label Gully Post Malone, Ski Mask The Slump
Gang Entertainment to God and Michael Jackson as Too Messy, a beat-heavy song that
support and nurture local talent. his inspirations. is tailor-made for the dance floor
The latest name to join their roster or ‘mosh pit.’ All Black Trap Trap
i s G o a - b a s e d r ap p e r N at h a n On the right track 2 veers more towards trap, and
Mendes, better known by his stage His five track EP is in collaboration both the rappers showcase their
name, Tsumyoki. With his latest with fellow rapper Kidd Mange. It lyrical skills in this number. The
EP, Way Too Messy, the young kicks off with the title track Way third is a fun track titled Pao Wala.
musician is aiming high and The song has a regional twist as it
wants to make a mark on the inter- is peppered with local slang and
national scene. Hindi verses. With the fourth and
penultimate No Games, the rap-
Breaking stereotypes per presents his take on the sub-
“There is a stereotype that all ject of street smartness. And the
Goans do is drink and par ty. EP closes with Commentz, a hard-
Nathan Mendes aka Tsumyoki
People assume that we aren’t hard hitting number about ‘cancel cul-
working and I don’t like that,” the ture.’ Nathan adds, “Me describ-
artiste tells us, adding, “Once, ing the EP doesn’t do the project
when I told someone I was Goan, justice. When you play it, you’ll
they said, ‘Your life must be a vaca- find that each of the five tracks
tion.’ I aim to break this stereo- have their own unique flavours
type.” Nathan wants to represent and as an EP, it’s a whole meal.”
the coastal state everywhere he Up next, Nathan is looking for-
goes and wants to do so by working ward to performing live again. “I
hard and letting his music do absolutely can’t wait to get on
the talking. stage and start performing for my
“I come from a broken family fans. I have a lot of music that I
and my mother has been a huge would love to play for them,” he
source of inspiration in my profes- concludes.
sional journey because of how she Available on
overcame so many hurdles that life online streaming platforms
threw at her. My music is a form of — Anagha M
therapy where I channel all my anagha@newindianexpress.
emotions,” the 20-year-old artiste com @anaghzzz

showcase

PEEPING
NO TOUCHING, HUGGING or sit- many of us were far away from our covering self-pleasure. She was sions as well. Anuja concludes
ting close to each other — these were lovers. It (the audio narrations) ran newly-married and was separated saying, “We are not offending any-

TOM
among the first rules that were spelt for 40 nights and received a lot of love. from her husband who was in anoth- one. It’s just a playful show and we
out when the pandemic struck. Then Then, when the lockdown ended, I er ward. Another performer talks want the audience to acknowledge
the first lockdown was announced in continued running it once a month. about what kind of food turns her the bravery and vulnerability of
India on the evening of March 24, Now we are presenting it as a virtual and her partner on and her language the performers.”
2020. All these covid protocols and play,” explains Anuja. of love through food. It’s stories such Entry free. October 1, 8 pm
the abrupt announcement of the While lots of people contributed to as these that will be explored during — Ayesha Tabassum
lockdown triggered an idea in Anuja the club, eventually, nine of them this interactive show that allows the ayeshatabassum@newindianex-
Ghosalkar’s mind. participated in a writing workshop audience to participate in discus- press.com @aishatax
This virtual play The documentary theatre practi- facilitated by Anuja and Zui Kumar
explores topics tioner and artiste was thinking about
all those people who were isolated
Reddy. These participants then
wrote the play, and will also be per-
of voyeurism, and staying away from their loved forming it. Bala Raghavan, Bhavana
erotica and self-love ones. With this thought, Anuja start-
ed The Lonely Hearts Club, a series of
Rajendran, Manjima Bhattacharjya,
Moakshaa, Nidhi Mariam Jacob,
during the pandemic crowd-sourced audio narrations on Oishorjyo, Rency Philip, Sophie R,
Instagram on the theme of erotica. Savu Yalgaar and Tushar Madhav
Nearly a year and a half later, the are the nine performers. “We explore
artiste presents a play titled The the idea of Zoom and voyeurism, and
Lonely Hearts Club Show. This vir- perform the written works. But the
tual play that will be staged on Zoom, onus is also on the audience to pon-
is a compilation of nine personal der their roles as people who
stories from the series. “I started the are watching. Voyeurism is a larger
Instagram handle where I invited framework — we are questioning the
people to send erotic poetry, diary medium of looking through the cam-
entries, published work, or anything era the entire day,” says Anuja.
that they had written, in order to One of the performers talks about
Anuja Ghosalkar counter our loneliness because so being stuck in a Covid ward and dis- A scene from the rehearsal

10
 food
wine/restaurant THE NEW INDIAN EXPRESS
FRIDAY, OCTOBER 1, 2021 | BENGALURU

& first look

drink

FINDING
FLAVOUR Dark and Stormy Mango Blue Pea Tea Sandwich from the menu

F
Soros OR THOSE WHO frequent
Cunningham Road and
flavours such as Super Almond,
Tennessee Whiskey, Five Candies
reimagines the area around it, the hunt
for a decent coffee shop
and Plum Cake with cappuccino or
latte as the base. We were informed
cappuccinos could prove to be challeng-
ing. There are a handful of options
that all the flavoured syrups are
made specifically for Soros and
and lattes with and some good ones have shut down flown in from Switzerland. While
owing to the lockdowns and we skipped Plum Cake, we sampled
infusions such as curfews. However, coffee lovers in the other three. Our favourite was

Plum Cake and the neighbourhood will be happy to

note that there’s a new cafe in town.
the Tennessee Whiskey, which
paired seamlessly with the coffee
The cafe
Tennessee Called Soros Flavor Coffee, this cafe
focuses on unique flavours and sin-
notes. The almond flavour was a bit
pronounced in the Super Almond
Whiskey gle origin blends made from custom-
roasted beans. An interesting
coffee, so it’s strictly only for those
who can handle the distinct aroma
Their food menu comprises sand-
wiches, flapjacks, open-faced toasts
(smoky chicken, two-egg omelette
and cheddar cheese).
approach when the rest of the city is and taste of the nut. Five Candies and tortilla wraps. Our recommen- The unique and off-beat flavour
moving towards the fourth wave was also a miss for us, as the fruity dations include the Blueberry infusions are surely a must-try, but
of coffee. and sugary flavour of the candy Pancakes, which were light and even if the novelty wears off, their
We headed there on a busy week- didn’t seem to work with the latte. fluffy, Cream Cheese and Blueberry fuss-free cappuccinos and lattes
day evening, even as heavy rain Some of the other drinks we tried Toast (tart blueberry compote are impressive and just what you
ccino

lashed this part of the city. While we were the Mango Blue Pea Tea — a offset with the creamy richness of would expect from a friendly neigh-
complained about the weather, we blend of mango, blue pea tea and milk cheese on thin slices of bread), bourhood cafe.
u

realised that a hot cup of coffee was and Dark & Stormy — cold brew with Croque Monsieur (French classic `600++ for two.
pp

just what we needed, and there was condensed milk. We enjoyed the sub- with chicken ham, cheese, becha- At Cunningham Road
Ca

plenty of that on the cards. So we tle mango flavour in the former and mel sauce, cheddar cheese and — Rashmi Rajagopal
held our tongue and decided to the balance of coffee and sweetened Dijon mustard) and Smoked rashmirajagopal@newindianex-
enjoy the tasting. The menu offers condensed milk in the latter. Chicken Egg & Cheese Sandwich press.com @rushmeee

11
 on-screen/showtime THE NEW INDIAN EXPRESS
FRIDAY, OCTOBER 1, 2021 | BENGALURU

telewatch
New season:
Young Sheldon
This spin-off of The Big Bang Theory
follows the early days of the sitcom’s lead
character, Sheldon Cooper. The fourth
season begins as the boy genius has
graduated from school and is ready to start
college life. The season delves a little
deeper into the character’s family and their
relationships with each other. From October
4. Weeknights, 9 pm. On Comedy Central

New season: Younger

New series: Break Point The creator of shows such as Sex and the City and 90210, Darren Star, is the man behind this
Leander Paes and Mahesh Bhupathi were two names comedy-drama. Liza Miller is a 40-year old divorcee who fakes her age to get a job in the
that were synonymous with Indian tennis. As men’s publishing industry. The seventh and final season kicks off as Liza’s lover Charles proposes to her.
doubles partners, the duo has won multiple Grand But it’s going to be a rocky road of heartbreak for Liza, even as she tries to navigate her career.
Slams and Davis Cup ties. The two clearly made a great From October 4. Weeknights, 10 pm. On Comedy Central
team, but their constant difference saw them splitting
up, reuniting and splitting up again. In this docuseries,
filmmakers Ashwiny Iyer Tiwari and Nitesh Tiwari trace
Premiere: Shiddat
their career and eventual fall out through interviews This romantic drama features Sunny
with the players themselves, their contemporaries, Kaushal and Radhika Madan in lead roles.
sports writers and friends. October 1. On Zee5 The narrative follows Kartika and Jaggi
who meet in Paris. Though Kartika is
engaged to someone else, Jaggi
pursues her and suggests they
have a fling before they
get married to different
people. However, things
don’t go as planned.
October 1. On Disney+
Hotstar

Premiere:
Diana: The
Musical
Diana: The Musical, which was performed
only a few times on Broadway before the pan-
demic forced theatres to shut down, will be
available on Netflix. The live recording tells the
story of Lady Diana Spencer, right from her
engagement to Prince Charles, to her life
under the strict rules by the royal family
and how she deals with her unsuccess-
ful marriage. October 1. On Premiere:
Netflix Black Christmas
This is filmmaker Sophia Takal’s take on
the 1974 classic of the same name. The
narrative follows a group of girls at
Hawthorne College. As Christmas is just
around the corner, Riley and her sorority
sisters are decorating the halls for a party
before students leave for the festive break
when a mysterious stalker attacks them.
Instead of becoming hapless victims,
the girls decide to fight the murderer
Premiere: and solve the mystery. October 3,
9 pm. On Sony PIX
The Guilty
Crime-thriller, The Guilty, starring
Jake Gyllenhaal, is based on a 2018
: M a id
miere e Land’s
Danish film of the same name. A 911

Pre d on Stephanri Maid: Hard ill

operator gets a call from a woman who has
apparently been kidnapped. Following her
cues, it’s now up to him to trace the call Base ng memoi other’s W
elli aM ves
and rescue her. The movie also stars best-s w Pay and eries revol o
Lo i-s wh
Riley Keough, Paul Dano, and Work, ve, this min le mother, y
vi g b
Ethan Hawke. October 1. to Sur d Alex, a sin ends meet ams
On Netflix aroun ing to make She daydre d
is try s a maid. f luxury an g
ng a eo nin
worki t living a lif g hard clea
abou ile workin ending on .
e wh dep .A.P
leisur nsions and ms like S.N ley
ma
c e p r ogra aret Qual
an rg
assist w stars Ma . On Netflix
o 1
The sh ex. October
as Al
12
 out celeb/interview THE NEW INDIAN EXPRESS
FRIDAY, OCTOBER 1, 2021 | BENGALURU

of the in conversation
box

NXT Triple Crown Champion Johnny Gargano talks

about his journey with WWE, his relationship with
Candice LeRae and why he is here to stay

N
XT TRIPLE CROWN
C h a m p i o n Jo h n ny
Gargano and his wife
Candice LeRae, former
N X T Wo m e n’s Ta g
champion, are counted as one of
the most popular couples in WWE.
The duo also formed the group, The
Way, in 2020, and Johnny led them
to quite a few victories. The most
recent news of Candice’s preg-
nancy has once again put the
couple in the spotlight, and the duo
has been sharing regular updates
with fans. Though they are touted as
a power couple, and despite them Johnny and Candice
being regulars on the NXT roster,
there’s still a lot to achieve for both the same company, there’s always against Tommaso (in New Orleans)
champs. Johnny has had a chall- this question about whether we will and Adam Cole (in New York), and
enging run, and with his future in get back together or will fight one the NXT Championships — these
WWE still uncertain (his contract another. I believe we will always be have been my proudest moments.
ends in December), it may get tied together. I think you have cer- Also to sit back and watch Candice
tougher, but he isn’t giving up. In tain people like Triple H and and Indi win the NXT Tag Team
this exclusive interview, he talks Shawn Michaels who are destined Titles was a favourite moment.
about his journey so far, his rela- to feud or be together forever.
tionship with Candice and what’s Tommaso and I are in a similar You and your wife Candice LeRae lead the
next for both of them. Excerpts: league. I appreciate the fact that The Way group. You are the power couple.
people care so much about DIY. How are you both off camera, in your
When were you introduced to WWE? They want to see us do something personal life?
The first time I started watching together. Right now he is doing his We do everything together. We are
wrestling was at a time when I own thing with Timothy Tatcher. I never off, we keep thinking about
was also majorly into superhe- am doing my own thing with wrestling 24X7. We both have simi-
roes like the Power Rangers Austin, Candice (LeRae) and Indi lar backgrounds and had the same
and Ninja Turtles. My next (Hartwell). Whenever we cross dream while growing up. Now we
door neighbour Eddie, who paths again, there’s probably a good are finally living our dream togeth-
was also my best friend, was chance it may happen because of er. Sometimes we try to turn our
an avid wrestling fan. I did our history. minds off from wrestling, and watch
not watch wrestling at all. He TV, or go for a walk in the park, and
introduced me to it. When What goes on in your mind before you do what normal couples do.
he first put on the television enter the ring? There’s so much riding on
to show me, I was like I’d you, and fans are expecting something What goes into your training? Is there a
ratherwatchPowerRangers. spectacular every time. diet and workout regimen you stick to?
But the moment I saw Shawn I try to stay even. I have a lot of big My nutritionist is Austin Current, I
Michaels on screen, I was like, match experiences like the TakeOver have worked with him ever since
‘man, this is amazing,’ he had men matches. Every match is a step to get TakeOver: Brooklyn 4, which was
flying all over the ring, and it felt like me to where I want to be. Everything I more than three years ago. We have
I was watching superheroes who do, I do it for a reason. So, I know what a home gym. Candice and I workout
were brought to life. It was every- I am capable of and I am confident of there, and Austin plans my work-
thing I ever wanted, it had all the it. I try not to get too hyped up. I need to outs. I follow the ‘If It Fits Your
characters and it had all the athleti- control my breathing, I need to con- Macros (IIFYM)’ diet plan — this
cism. It was basically all that I want- trol my heart rate because if I don’t, includes carbs, fats and proteins,
ed to do. That’s when I felt I needed to that’s when things go really bad. If and I eat all of these depending
be a part of this. you see me just before I go through the on how active I am on a particular
curtain, and when I return through day. This plan has worked really well
Tell us about working with your hero, the curtain, I am pretty much the for me.
Shawn Michaels. same. This is what I take pride in.
I have known Shawn for about four We read that you are a Marvel fan. Who are
years, working with him in NXT. I What have you learnt from your your favourite heroes?
always try to remind myself that I journey so far? There are so many amazing heroes,
was that chubby little kid who Don’t take no for an answer. I but my favourite is Spider-Man.
Johnny Gargano

dressed like Shawn Michaels, and believe I am living proof that if you
now as a 33-year-old grown man, have a dream, you can make it hap- Tell us about your Star Wars obsessions.
who is moderately in shape, I dress pen. If you want to do something, I love Mandalorians. Boba Fett is
like Shawn. It is a dream come true you can manifest it. The story has one of my favourites. But I also love
for me to work with him, and I sent been told to death — the fact that I Anakin Skywalker’s descent into
my pictures with him to my mom. was told that I would never be in Darth Vader. I like this story arc as
She had actually made the ‘Shawn’ NXT — and the career I have had so well. Candice and I even named our
dress for me when I was eight years far shows that one ‘no’ is not the dog Pawdme, it’s a Star Wars pun on
old and I wanted her to see the pic- end of the story. You can write your Padme. I also love The Clone Wars.
tures where I am dressed like my story and make it happen. But yes, Boba Fett is my most favou-
hero and posing with him. rite! We are all just big nerds!
Which have been your most memorable WWE NXT, Wednesdays, 5.30 am.
People keep bringing up your long drawn moments so far? On Sony Ten channels
out feud with Tommaso Ciampa. So will My TakeOver match with Andrade — Ayesha Tabassum
there be a revival of DIY (tag team com- (Almas) was my first TakeOver ayeshatabassum@
prising Johnny and Tommaso)? match. I showed people that I newindianexpress.com
Whenever Tommaso and I are in could do it. My TakeOver matches @aishatax

13
 mind
health/wellness THE NEW INDIAN EXPRESS
FRIDAY, OCTOBER 1, 2021 | BENGALURU

&

PRO-PROTE IN LIFE
body

A vegetarian diet can easily meet lysine). So, when we combine cere-
als and pulses (dal-roti, dal-rice,
your daily protein requirements as khichdi-lentil with millets etc) we
get a complete amino acid profile
long as energy needs are met and a that enhances the protein absorp-
tion in the body. Incomplete pro-
variety of foods are consumed teins will neither support growth
nor provide normal maintenance of

E
body tissues. However, combining
VERY YEAR OCTOBER feel that we just want to follow the your pulses and grains will give you
1st is celebrated as World fads blindly and drink more whey complete protein to build muscle
Vegetarian Day, and I found protein shakes to get the perfectly mass and enhance growth.
this as an opportunity to toned body. However, I wish to men- For vegetarians who want to build
break the myth about ‘you tion that it doesn’t work that way. a healthy body, we can look up at veg
can’t have enough protein in veg- Too much of anything will have a options without loading on excess
etarian food’. We all know that pro- bad impact on your health as well as protein shakes. Mix sattu (roasted
tein is required for our body to repair your body and people who think that chana or gram dal in powdered form)
cells and DNA, for our growth, heal- a vegetarian diet will not provide with organic A2 buttermilk and get
ing, muscle building, tissue repair you enough protein, are all wrong. a complete protein drink to fuel your
etc. And for ages, we have followed a A vegetarian meal can be balanced body and build muscle. It contains
common misconception that a vege- with the proper amino acid profile calcium, iron, manganese, potas-
tarian diet lacks protein. I have seen that has complete protein and its sium and magnesium — all essen-
many vegetarian clients asking me adsorption is perfect as well. If you tial in tissue repair after a workout
questions like — ‘I have to build my see a traditional veg thali across session. People who can’t take but-
muscles but how will I get protein as India, it will always have lentils or termilk can mix sattu with almond
I don’t eat non-veg at all’. At times I dal preparation along with cereals milk to reap the same benefits.
like roti or rice in it. Now the science We Indians are blessed with a
that many of us might not know but variety of lentils and legumes to add
our elders in the family still follow different nutrients to our meals. We
— is balancing the meals properly. surely need to go back to our roots
One has to note that cereals lack one and understand how our ancestors
amino acid called — lysine (and con- had complete protein by mixing and
tain methionine) whereas pulses matching the many vegetarian food
lack — methionine (and contain options.

Chief Nutrition Officer,

Luke Coutinho Holistic
Healing Systems. The writer
is a clinical nutritionist
with a focus on healthy
lifestyle choices.

spotlight

‘Pushing my boundaries for fitness’

Actor Harman Singha ing on Sony Liv. Harman started his career
as an assistant director and wrote a few
I got very creative. I used stairs and a terrace
for exercise. I have a yoga mat and a skipping
talks about how scripts as well. But what hasn’t changed in
all these years is his love for fitness. We speak
rope. I was skipping which gave me a sense of
rhythm. It’s the best way of cardio. During the
appearances are to the actor more about his fitness, diet, men-
tal health and more. Excerpts:
lockdown, I was working out twice a day and
I still try to maintain that. Sometimes I would
important in the do a heavy workout (weight training) in the
How do you start your day? Any specific diet you morning. And in the evening I prefer cardio,
entertainment industry follow when you are at work? abs, treadmill, stretching or yoga. I like to
Essentially, I start my day with a black coffee. maintain an aesthetically fit body which is
ACTOR HARMAN SINGHA is the only civil- I am doing intermittent fasting and it helps required in the industry. Now it has become
ian to have entered an Indian Navy subma- me a lot. I do morning work- a way of keeping my physical and mental
rine to show the life of submariners in a outs and stretching without health in check.
four-episode web series Breaking Point: The eating. I have enough con-
Indian Submariners on Discovery. Harman trol over my food. I carry What is more important to you? The way you look,
is an Army brat, however, he chose to work in my food on shoots which the way you feel or how healthy you are?
the entertainment industry following have proper portions of egg, The way you look has become more impor-
the footste ps of his brother salad, protein and quinoa. tant now because I am on camera. Earlier it
Rannvijay (of MTV Roadies I always have diet snacks was about the way I felt. Now it’s a combina-
fame). Hailing from and protein bars with tion of both. There is a saying that I follow ‘If
Chandigarh, this Mumbai- me and take two protein you do something physically tough it gives
based actor has worked in shakes in the morning you the mental ability to handle all the obsta-
shows like A.I.SHA – My and evening. cles’. I am always pushing my boundaries as
Virtual Girlfriend and is far as fitness is concerned.
now seen playing Dhruv, a What is your fitness
young responsible boy regimen and how did you Harman Singha — Priyanka Chandani
of a family, in Potluck, balance it during the [email protected]
a web series stream- lockdown? @MinksChandani

14
 auto/innovation
car THE NEW INDIAN EXPRESS
FRIDAY, OCTOBER 1, 2021 | BENGALURU
&
bike race ahead

Built to order
The Apache RR 310 can now be
kitted to reflect your personality!

launchpad

SUPER dash and a large touchscreen interface tak-

ing centrestage.

CHARGED
Performance
Both versions get an 84kWh battery pack and
dual electric motors, however in the e-tron
GT the power output is set at 470 bhp and 630
Nm of torque. This version can travel 500 km
on a single charge and can do the 0-100km/h TVS MOTOR COMPANY is taking their
dash in just 4.1 seconds. motorsport DNA to new heights with their
Having said that, the RS e-tron GT takes latest bespoke programme that allows customers
the performance game up by a couple of to personalise their RR 310 motorcycle. First time
Audi India has launched the e-tron GT and RS notches, as this version delivers close to 600
bh and a solid 830 Nm of torque. It can do the
customers can get a factory built bike according
to their personal preference, as per their Built To
e-tron GT in India, making these the first 0-100 km/h dash in just 3.3 seconds and has a
range of 481 km on a single charge.
Order (BTO) initiative.
You can select from pre-set kits, numerous
all-electric sportscars to come to our shores Plugged in
graphic options, rim colour options, personalised
racing numbers and a lot more to make your bike

A
To make it easy to charge, Audi is offering truly a one-of-a-kind offering. As far as the kits go,
UDI INDIA IS extremely commit- Interior charging ports on both sides of the car. The TVS is offering them in two trims, namely
ted to going electric and are look- The cabin on the Audi e-tron GT and RS cars come with an 11kW home charging kit, Dynamic and Race. Both offer an array of features
ing at having 15% of their portfolio e-tron GT carries a rather progressive look however at an extra charge customers can that further accentuate performance and the
as all-electric offerings in the next and is finished in the finest of materials opt for the 22kW charging unit. Incidentally, style of the bike as per the customer’s needs.
few years. The company already including a lot of sustainable materials the e-tron range can also be charged via a Currently TVS is offering this level of personali-
offers the e-tron SUV and e-tron Sportsback made from recycled plastics. The jet-black 270kW superfast charger system. sation on the Apache RR 310, however looking at
in India, and now they have added two new cabin along with artificial leather uphol- the fact that the company has attained 100%
models to their list, namely the e-tron GT stery looks absolutely stunning and the Premium pedigree bookings for the RR 310 BTO, we do expect the
and RS e-tron GT. space on board is what you would expect While the world is going electric, to get the company to extend this programme to other bikes
from a vehicle of this calibre. The tech on best that is there to offer does mean that the in the range shortly.
Design board is also top notch with an all digital industry is taking a top-down approach. The Ordering a BTO bike is rather easy as well, as
Both the e-tron GT and RS e-tron GT boast of Audi e-tron GT and RS version are premium the entire configurator is available through the
an extremely emotive design. Sharp lines, a products that are fully loaded and have been TVS ARIVE app or you can visit their website to go
sleek stretched body and all the design cues priced accordingly. Having said that, the through the steps and build your bike. To top it
that you find on sports coupe are present. price tag is on par with what you would pay off, TVS is also offering a unique Race Replica
Both versions are four-door models that are (A pitstop for modern-day car and bike enthusiasts, for a performance machine that offers what graphic that is inspired by their TVS Racing OMC
just plain stunning to stare at! The Audi grill this column features the latest machines, reviews, these cars do! race machines!
gets a new interpretation as do the lights. roadtrips and more. By a team of automotive The e-tron GT is priced at `1,79,90,000 and — VG
The rear has a nice wide look that highlights insiders who call themselves MotorScribes) the RS e-tron GT retails for `2,04,99,000
the car’s sporty lowslung stance. — Vikram Gour

ride on
Monster mayhem on the highway on a nice long
Ducati is out with an all-new ride. The Monster range also
range in India and the bikes benefits from Ducati’s new
gearbox that comes with the
deliver on that quintessential quick up and down shift as
standard.
fun-to-ride promise Built on an aluminium
front frame that replicates
THE ALL-NEW Ducati rating ride experience. the same concept found on
Monster range is out in India Powering the new Monster the Panigale V4, the entire
and customers can choose is a Testastretta 937 cc L-twin chassis has been built light to
between the Monster and the petrol engine with reduce the overall weight of
Monster Plus variants. The Desmodromic distribution the bike and achieve a dry
bikes are all-new from the and it meets BS6 emission weight of just 166 kg. The
ground up and come in a norms. The engine churns new bikes also come with
light, compact for m out a solid 111 hp of power and ABS Cor nering, Traction
with that quintessen- 93 Nm of torque. Compared to Control and Wheelie Control.
tial naked bike styl- the older version, the new Other cool tech on board
ing. It goes without bike boasts of a higher power include Launch Control as
s ay i n g t h a t t h e output and this has resulted well as three distinct riding
bikes are built on a in an improvement in the ride modes that let you get the
superbike derived dynamics department. An most out of the bikes.
frame that ensures agile bike that has an efficient The all new Monster and
that they remain andreactivethrottleresponse, Monster Plus launched at
capable riding the low end torque also `10.99 lakh and `11.24 lakh
machines that ensures that it is extremely respectively.
deliver an exhila- easy to ride in the city or out — VG

15
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