Miscellaneous · Travel

Of bobbins and beautiful patterns: Fashion and Lace museum, Brussels

Dating back all the way to the 15th and 16th century, lace making in Belgium is intrinsic and integral to the cultural heritage of the country.  Intricate, graceful and sophisticated, the unique feature of authentic Belgium lace is that it is totally handmade and made largely with bobbins, needle pins and other techniques.    Known earlier… Continue reading Of bobbins and beautiful patterns: Fashion and Lace museum, Brussels

Arunachal Pradesh · Travel

Arunachal Pradesh: on a tribal trail

Landing in Guwahati and hitting the road for Itanagar was a perfect prelude to the land of surreal natural beauty and diverse landscapes, Arunachal Pradesh.  It is a state of unparalleled biodiversity as well as ethnic and cultural multiplicity with 26 major tribes and a mind boggling 100 subtribes, each of whom have their own… Continue reading Arunachal Pradesh: on a tribal trail

Food

Recipe: Gongura aka sorrel leaves pachadi and gongura-brinjal chutney

One of the most popular ingredients used in the cuisine of Telangana and Andhra Pradesh is Gongura or sorrel leaves.  Also called Amabada, it is a  rich source of vitamin C, iron, folic acid and calcium.  Known for its anti-inflammatory and other medicinal properties, Gongura is available in two varieties, the red stemmed one and… Continue reading Recipe: Gongura aka sorrel leaves pachadi and gongura-brinjal chutney

Switzerland · Travel

Photo essay: Gruyères – of medieval vibes, fairy tale landscapes and gastronomic culture

Located in the Fribourg canton of Switzerland, the idyllic town of Gruyères is home to several interesting sites.  With unique experiences spanning art, culture and cuisine, a visit to this pedestrian town was one of my favourites trips of my Switzerland sojourn.  The journey started on a day that was unusually foggy but the train ride… Continue reading Photo essay: Gruyères – of medieval vibes, fairy tale landscapes and gastronomic culture