Miscellaneous · Travel

Curtain raiser: Uttar Pradesh Bird Festival – 2018 Edition

One of the largest and most populous states of India, Uttar Pradesh is a state of many facets.  Situated on the border of India and Nepal, it is home to cities like Agra, Varanasi and Mathura that have immense cultural and religious significance.  The capital city of Lucknow is  known for its medieval Indian culture… Continue reading Curtain raiser: Uttar Pradesh Bird Festival – 2018 Edition

Food

Recipe: Tender Coconut payasam using Sprig Salted Caramel

There is nothing more refreshing than a bowl of payasam to finish any meal. Symbolic of all things happy, festive and celebratory, payasam is one of the most common desserts in South India. With a few simple tweaks like the addition of fresh fruits or jaggery instead of sugar, payasam can be made both nutritious… Continue reading Recipe: Tender Coconut payasam using Sprig Salted Caramel

Making a Difference

Asha Niketan: A celebration of life and a home of hope

“We change the world when we simply meet the needs of another” – Kristen Welch One of the most important challenges in the rehabilitation of people with mental disabilities is caring, for it is the caregivers who do the toughest job.  The act of care giving is critical and it could range from physical, medical,… Continue reading Asha Niketan: A celebration of life and a home of hope

Reviews

Review: Himalaya Anti Hair Fall range – #4FabulousHair

One of the most common hair problems we face today, irrespective of age, gender or season is that of hair loss.  Arguably one of the most agonizing problems, this is something so stressful that it could give me nightmares.   The use of natual remedies like coconut oil, ayurvedic herbs, essential oils etc go a long… Continue reading Review: Himalaya Anti Hair Fall range – #4FabulousHair

Food

Recipe: Sweet pumpkin raitha (curd based sauce) using Sprig 6 Pepper medley

Come January and it is the season of sweet pumpkin.   In fact, it is customary to eat sweet pumpkins during this season with the winter slowly coming to an end and the weather gradually becoming warmer. Loaded with antioxidants and vitamins, these brightly colored goodies truly pack a punch in terms of their numerous health… Continue reading Recipe: Sweet pumpkin raitha (curd based sauce) using Sprig 6 Pepper medley

Travel · United States

Pier 39, San Francisco: a plethora of fun, frolic and entertainment

It is often said your visit to the fog city aka San Francisco starts at The Pier.  A vivacious city that is often touted as the cultural and commercial capital of California, San Francisco has a unique character and vibe that is hard to miss.  With several iconic attractions including the Golden Gate bridge, Twin… Continue reading Pier 39, San Francisco: a plethora of fun, frolic and entertainment

Travel · United States

Naples, Florida: sunshine, sand and sea

Perfectly manicured lawns, sprawling golf courses, a vibrant downtown, quirky stores, plenty of sun, sand and sea are some of the first things you notice when you visit the eclectic city of Naples in Southwest Florida. Voted as the healthiest and happiest city in the US twice in a row according to the Gallup-Healthways State… Continue reading Naples, Florida: sunshine, sand and sea

Andhra Pradesh & Telengana · Travel

Magical weaves: the elegance of Mangalagiri textiles

Given my love for indigenous textiles, I never miss an opportunity to visit handloom weaving centres during my travels.  In line with the country’s rich footprint of textiles, the southern states of Andhra Pradesh and Telegana are prominent torch bearers too.  Apart from the Ikkat, Kalamkari, Gadwal and Narayanpet, the elegant sarees of Mangalagiri have… Continue reading Magical weaves: the elegance of Mangalagiri textiles

Food

Fresh beginnings and new resolutions this Sankranti

Sankranti Come new year and it is time for new beginnings, fresh resolutions and start of all things auspicious.  In sync with this spirit of celebration comes the first festival of the year, Sankranti.  This is a highly significant harvest festival and is celebrated with pomp and gaiety in major parts of India.  It is… Continue reading Fresh beginnings and new resolutions this Sankranti

Karnataka · Travel

Kallu Ganapati temple: Padumundu, Shiriyara: A photoessay

First off, here’s wishing all my readers a wonderful 2018! Hope your year is filled with joy, fun and of course many happy travels! Here is a quick post on the Kallu Ganapati temple which is a hidden gem near the town of Barkur in Udupi district.  Dedicated to the Lord of Beginnings or Lord… Continue reading Kallu Ganapati temple: Padumundu, Shiriyara: A photoessay