36th Annual Dastkari Haat Annual Craft Bazaar by Dastkari Haat Samiti prsented by Jaya Jaitly

As Dastkari Haat Samiti enters its 36th year of dedicated work towards the preservation of India’s crafts heritage and sustaining the livelihoods of craftspeople it offers a new theme to the public at its annual crafts bazaar at Dilli Haat from 1-15January.
“Krishi aur Kala”The Farmer and the ArtisanAn Integral Relationship

It has conducted over 150 bazaars over the years, created major interventions like conceptualising Dilli Haat and working for its continued service as a market for craftspeople. It has reintroduced calligraphy into crafts and created major online documentation of 52 crafts all over India for the Google Arts & Culture platform. Its artistic crafts maps of all the states of India are iconic as are its many publications on crafts practices and projects. It’s a special feature at its Dilli Haat annual bazaar has been craft exchange workshops with Craftspeople from abroad. This has not been possible due to Covid uncertainties and travel restrictions. In 2022 it highlights a theme central to the importance of sustaining craft and farmer livelihoods as major partners in the fight for preserving the planet from the ravages of climate change.

Partners collaborating in this important theme are Dastkari Haat Samiti at Navdanya, known universally for its promotion and protection of biodiversity, led by Jaya Jaitly and Vandana Shiva, both recognised experts in their field.

Navdanya brings you a rich diversity of India’s indigenous rice varieties. We have conserved drought-tolerant, flood-tolerant and salt-tolerant varieties. Navdanya’s organic communities from Himalaya to the coastal regions of Odisha and the hill tracts of the northeast have grown aromatic rice, red rice, brown rice. Celebrate this gift of diverse nutritions, health, organic food while contributing to the livelihood and ecological practices of the small marginal farmers.

Kisan and Craftspeople

Agriculture means the culture of care for the Land. Crafts transform what farmers produce into beauty and utility with their hands. The unity of Kisan and Craftspeople is based on the integration of Head, Heart and Hand among both farmers and craftspeople. Farmers and craftspeople are co-creators of the Earth. Local Circular Living economies which connect farmers to craftspeople and both to consumers directly are central to creating a fossil-fuel-free world and stopping greenhouse emissions and Climate Change.
When the farmer produces a good harvest, all of society celebrates. Since the farmer and the artisan were inextricably linked, celebrating harvests and festivals together is an invariable outcome in which not only did each depend on the other but communities came together for cultural and social activities. In Odisha, when a particular type of grass grows along the roads in October, silversmiths start preparing thrones for the image of the deity to celebrate the puja festival. After the rains, wild grass grows around water bodies in northern India. Women gather this grass to weave baskets for their own needs.

Village markets developed and even today, in most parts of the world, where agrarian economies dominate over industrial ones, the rural market is the hub of trading activity. It has a vast variety of both food-stuffs, fresh and dried, as well as rope, containers, baskets, floor mats, tools and earthen vessels which are made by rural artisans. Many of these objects are made from the residues of agricultural crops. Mutually sustaining and interdependent, crafts and agriculture
have a natural link.

Navdanya will bring an exhibition of the vast varieties of organic cultivation of grain, cereals and health-giving food produce. These will be available for order online and not at Dilli Haat. Dastkari Haat Samiti will highlight the vast range of craftspeople who make items involved in the process of cultivation, preparation and serving of food through utility objects for the kitchen and dining table that involve food. These craftspeople will sell their items at the stalls at Dilli Haat.

A Multicultural Event With Varied Range of Crafts

Visitors will see a ring of tableware, cooking vessels, table linen, baskets and trays. You would never imagine so many crafts are dedicated to the preparation and serving of food.
Talks, demonstrations and workshops in the non-commercial tented section at Dilli Haat will be held periodically.

Some of the craftspeople involved in the theme are:

Brass from Orissa, West Bengal, Terracotta from Rajasthan, Ceramic from UP, Maharashtra and Delhi, Wood from West Bangal, Baskets from West Bengal, UP, Jharkhand, Table Mats from West Bengal, Rajasthan and Gujarat.
Block Prints from AP and Rajasthan, Ikkat from AP, Ajrak Printing from Gujarat, Weaving from UP and Gujarat, Folk performances from Rajasthan, West Bengal and Gujarat.

Special appeal from Dastkari Haat Samiti

While the arts and crafts connoisseurs of Delhi can access Dilli Haat to appreciate the craft of the regular traders at the permanent stalls all year round, Dastkari Haat Samiti appeals to them to wholly support this event by buying local hand-made crafts, textiles, and arts from the new exhibiting stalls. Dastkari Haat Samiti brings forth craftsmen with lesser means but no lesser skills. These craftsmen have entirely self-funded the bazaar. The décor, cultural performances, and publicity are paid for, by sharing equally among them. Let them make profits by buying generously from them.

Jaya Jaitly – President, Dasktari Haat Samiti

Four and Twenty Blackbirds: The Insane Life of an English Smuggler in Bombay

Speaking Tiger Books announced the publication of Four and Twenty Blackbirds: The Insane Life of an English Smuggler in Bombay by Godfrey Joseph Pereira, author of the critically acclaimed debut, Bloodline Bandra.

Set in the Partition era, this brilliant novel is based on the life of Charlie Strongbow, a schizophrenic Englishman who set up a smuggling den on Cross Island, off the Bombay coast. It includes fascinating anecdotes about the difficulties a newly formed government of India faced as well as the history of corruption in India.

Author Godfrey Joseph Pereira says, “This novel cuts into the medulla of brown-washed Indian history, refuting the glib historical lines that the British Empire was singularly accountable for corruption in India. The British opportunistically built on the corrupt foundations set up by the Rajas and the Maha Rajas. This began right from the start when Mughal Emperor Nuruddin Salim Jahangir, an alcoholic, opium addict and a corrupt leader was bribed by Sir Thomas Roe and sold India to the British. What Charlie Strongbow did in India will astonish and shock. “

ABOUT THE BOOK

Midnight, 15 August 1947. As India’s tryst with destiny reverberated across the world, Charlie Strongbow, born in Bombay, a renegade Englishman, mercenary, philosopher and schizophrenic, began his own bizarre journey. While nascent India floundered and struggled, Charlie, along with an English goon called Thommo, a devious accountant named Willie, a vicious Portuguese temptress, Dona Maria, and twenty British desperadoes, took possession of Cross Island near the Bombay Docks. Here they functioned in illegal harmony, bound by no rules and no principles, and set about building a black-market trade between Southampton and Bombay.

There was no stopping Charlie—but for memories of his own past filled with the misery of childhood abuse and guilt at having abandoned his daughters. As he drank himself to senselessness and let his inner demons take over, Detective Desai, a man Charlie had destroyed, raised an unrelenting war against Cross Island. But the severest blow of all would be struck by Dona Maria…

Based on true events, Four and Twenty Blackbirdsis an utterly gripping novel— the disturbing, astonishing story of an Englishman who won everything but lost his soul on a no man’s land in the Arabian Sea.

Price: INR 499 / Format: Paperback / Pages: 296

The book is now available on Speaking Tiger’s website.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Born in Pali Village, Bombay, Godfrey Joseph Pereira finished high school at Saint Andrew’s School. He graduated from college with a degree in English Literature and Philosophy. What followed was a career in journalism. He was Assistant Editor at Society Magazine, Principal Correspondent at Sunday Magazine and India Today, and worked as a war correspondent covering the First Gulf War from Israel. His first novel Bloodline Bandra was published by HarperCollins in 2014. The novel made the ‘Top Ten’ List at Oxford Bookstore. He has lived and worked as a journalist in New York City and New Jersey and now works and resides in West Palm Beach, Florida.

ABOUT THE PUBLISHER

Speaking Tiger Books is an independent publishing company based in New Delhi. Founded in September 2014, the company publishes a diverse list comprising quality fiction and non-fiction from South Asia and the rest of the world. The list includes veterans and exciting new voices—among them, Nayantara Sahgal, Shanta Gokhale, Jerry Pinto, Wendy Doniger, Upamanyu Chatterjee, Mark Tully, Nandita Haksar, Harsh Mander, Ravish Kumar, Hansda Sowvendra Shekhar, Salma, Easterine Kire, Ruskin Bond, Gulzar, Sujit Saraf, Madhavi Menon, Devaki Jain and Omair Ahmad. Its authors have won or been on the shortlists of almost all major literary prizes, including the Sahitya Akademi Award, the Crossword Book Award, the Hindu Literature Prize, the DSC Prize, the JCB Prize and the Tata Literature Live Awards.

Speaking Tiger also publishes books for children and young adults under its Talking Cub imprint, with authors like Paro Anand, Andaleeb Wajid, Bulbul Sharma, Ranjit Lal, Subhadra Sengupta, Bijal Vachharajani, Ashok Rajagopalan and Shabnam Minwalla.

India Designer Show

The second edition of the India Designer Show wrapped up on a scintillating note with some spectacular and fashion-forward lines by Indian designers. The one-day fashion cum exhibition has been organized by Modern Stage Events By Ronit Aggarwal showcasing some elegant collections by some renowned and some upcoming Indian designers in the fashion block.
The grand extravaganza of fashion showcasing started with an eccentric collection by Ms Rosy Ahluwalia for whom the very gorgeous Munmun Dhamecha walked the runway in an appealing outfit. Next in line was a beautiful offering by Kailash Chand Warq Wala, a concept designer who has highlighted the gold and silver Warq as Body Wraps by renowned Mr Sanjay Mittal Show Stopper Priyanka Munjal

Elakshi Gupta with Designer Rosy Ahluwalia and Munmun Dhamecha

The high-spirited show was a spectacle to behold with some awe-inspiring Indo-Ethnic collections by various designers. The label Coco by Bawa by Surjeet Bawa from Australia was one such collection showcasing some trendy and eye-catching Indo-Western and traditional outfits.

Later, Shalini Poddar showcased her 2022 spring collection revoking the importance of expressions through her aesthetic colours and silhouettes concepts under the label Aashvik Opulence. Her collection reflects the young, confident, yet culturally rooted aspects of India and hence resonated well with the youth of the country. Besides, this was Shalini’s first-ever collection which is all about celebrating freedom and openness of thoughts. Her show was followed by a ramp walk showcasing contemporary fusion collections under the label AS Couture by Yashika Nijhawan. The collection was all about bliss with all the fabric and design with a contemporary touch to the comeback fashion trends, making it pocket friendly for the fashion-inspired men and women.

The second show featured some elegant fashion statements in wedding and party wear by the finest designers like Amit Talwarr whose cosmopolitan couture brand presented Mehrunissa. The collection showcased an assortment of handcrafted silhouettes which are intricately designed and accentuated with sequence embroidery that exhibits panache and elegance. Later, models walked the ramp wearing collections from Poshak Bridal Emporio by Monika Bhatia with Show Stopper Bollywood Celebrity Stefy Patel. Brand Bare and Blur Couture by designer Arshi Singhal presented an exquisite designer line of party wear collection flaunting sorbet shades adorned with beautiful embroidery and intricate work all over. These shades are not only pleasing to the eye but an ideal go-to hue to get dressed up for the upcoming outings in the sun. Designer Arshi Singhal with her Bare and Blur label promises to deliver the modern trends in the true traditional sense.

Elakshi Gupta Walking for Karigiri by Sulakshana & Arpita

The third show of the evening added an impeccable element to the glamour by featuring some classical Indian collections like saris, suits, and men’s kurta Pyjama by Angad Creation from Jammu Show Stopper Bollywood Celebrity Dr Elakshi Gupta and unique Indo-Western gowns under the luxury couture brand KARIGIRI by sister duo Sulakshana & Arpita. KARIGIRI is ethnic wear for women with a touch of contemporary style for modern-day fashion-savvy women. The sister duo presented the spring-summer 2022 collection ‘KASTOORI’ which is inspired by the regal beauty of Taj Lake Palace, Udaipur. The collection of gowns, lehangas, and drapes took the audience to the picturesque location and the astonishing artwork in the design with the essence of Taj Lake Palace added drama to the entire setting. Sulakshana and Arpita with their brands have been featured in Wedmegood and Shaadiwish and are also worn by many celebrities.

The show also witnessed beautiful diamond jewelry collections from Vaasu Jewels by Renu Jalan. The jewelry pieces were inspired by Lord Krishna. Some of the jewelry pieces masterfully articulate the impression and as well as expression of the Lord.

Intending to bring the elements of luxury, sophistication, and opulence of today’s global fashion life on one platform, the second edition of this designer show cum exhibition was a grand success with some exciting line-up designers. Sharing the excitement of the completion of the second edition, Ronit Aggarwal Founder & Organizer of IDS said, “We ideated this platform to create a common global stage where our extremely talented Indian designers showcase their gorgeous collections highlighting the Indian culture and sophisticated glamour. Happy and honoured with another successful edition, we aim to take this platform to global recognition with a strong Indian root showcasing the intricate handwork and craftsmanship.”

The event was sponsored by AB Motoss, supported by E Smart Consulting Group, Interior and IDS Set designer by TiJiL Interior by Nipa Jain, S K Events and Productions by Simran Kaushik. Roseate House was the venue partner. Angooor Kitchen Lounge and Bar by Gupta brothers – Sumit Gupta and Yash Gupta lend their support throughout the event. Trendz Salon Shalimar Bagh & Scudo Bags was the Associate Gifting Partner.

Weaverstory Introduces Ethnic Collection of Dupattas

With the chic style statements in ethnic wear such as suits and stunning sarees, you can do up your desi looks. Statement pieces such as the exquisite dupattas are more than enough to help you steal all the attention. You can get that stunning red ethnic suit that you have been eyeing, gorgeous designer-inspired gotta Patti dupatta that never fails to make an impression in various fabrics. Weaverstory focuses on reviving the designs from museums and traditional forms feature a collection of timeless dupattas available in countless designs and hues. You can provide a stylish spin to your old salwar suits and lehengas by getting hold of a stunning range of dupattas.

Handwoven Chandheri Dupatta:

Weaverstory houses a collection of Handwoven chandheri silk dupattas which not only seem to be colourful but also include intricate detailing that makes them a class apart. They have a variety of works that adorn these dupattas like Rich Silver and Gold Zari, Meena, Booti, Zangla, Floral Motif and more. I can pick up pick one with the handwoven embroidery, printed patterns, zari borders or other styles.

Silk Dupatta:

Silk dupattas are an absolute choice of every girl because the rich silk fabric can provide a chic lift to any salwar suit. A Katan silk jangla dupatta with the work on meenakari zaal, cutwork Booti, Jamdani weave, Kadhwa weave, and more from the list of traditional weaves and works.

Patola and Ikat:

Patola although referred to as the Queen of sarees for its lush and illustrious silk and complicated geometrical patterns with the utilization of rich flora and fauna make an equally impressive mark in Dupattas too. The Banarasi Patola use the intricate meenakari cutwork technique to weave the sarees and dupattas whereas in the Patolas from Gujarat the technique used is completely different. The Warp and Weft are dyed within the pattern of the saree then woven with great mathematical precision. the end product though with similar motifs incorporates a completely different look.

Banarasi Bandhej:

This is an absolute must in every girl’s wardrobe because the rich silk fabric can give an elegant lift to any salwar suit. The Dupatta is handwoven in Banaras then the Bandhej is completed in Jam Nagar. this can be also referred to as shikarpuri bandhej.

If you’re someone who is curious about owning some beautiful silks, ikats, patolas and Banarasi dupattas with antique borders and weaves, it’s time you propose a visit to weaver story, 253, Westend Marg, near Garden of 5 Senses, New Delhi or visit online at weaverstory.com, Price on request.

Legendary Indian Cricketer’s Warrior NFT witnesses huge demand, the Bat auctioned sees bid worth $51k and above

Launched on 25th December 2021, Yuvraj Singh’s exclusive (NFT) drop is witnessing huge demand among people bidding for the collection. Launched with the leading marketplace Colexion on Polygon, the exclusive collection is the most in-demand NFT to foray into the world of digital collectibles. The collectibles include a maiden century bat of the cricketer. Since its launch, the auction has witnessed bids worth $51k that is increasing with each passing hour. The latter also launched his warrior NFT that is almost sold out. While the digital artwork is accessible to all, only the buyer will get digital ownership of the collection.

With sales of NFTs soaring to record highs, this launch is yet another sign of just how frenzied the market has become. Asia’s largest marketplace is said to cater to these rising demands through their exclusive collaborations. After Yuvi’s fans made a decentralised authorised organisation (also known as Yuvi DAO) to show their immense love for the cricketer, it is highly likely that the Yuvi DAO could be bidding on and acquiring the rare collection. DAOs can be thought of as friends on the internet with a shared checking account (denominated in crypto, of course).

There are many NFT DAOs already on the scene, having made flashy purchases in January in the run-up to NFT mania. So far, thousands have already signed up on the Colexion site to take part in the upcoming NFT auction.

Yuvraj Singh is also the first-ever cricketer to send his 1st-century bat to space. The hot-air balloon launched from earth to orbit carried Yuvraj Singh’s 1st-century bat, including a never-before-released personalized video dedicated to all his fans, becoming the first minted NFT ever to be sent in orbit.

Through purchasing the NFTs, the buyers will enjoy a number of perks, including a chance to play an over with Yuvraj and win exclusive merchandise of the cricketer. Fans will get a chance to interact and earn precious rewards in the form of signed memorabilia.

Colexion is a platform that allows fans to buy, trade, and sell unique digital collectibles in the form of non-fungible tokens (NFTs). Colexion is typically known for creating exclusive NFTs of well-established celebrities. Plus the fact that the artwork is selling at such a reasonable price also shows that such art is about to gain more mainstream acceptance.

The Colexion’s affordable yet premium trump cards have been introduced when digital art and NFTs have witnessed a massive rise in value. NFTs have emerged as an opportunity for users to own a unique asset that’s one of its kind in the world. Moreover, the bandwagon of celebrities, athletes, gamers and artists who have jumped into the NFT space to experiment their fate on the blockchain is something worth promising. In short, what the world is currently witnessing is just the tip of the iceberg. There’s a revolution brimming.

While the NFT collection is already gaining traction among investors, the deadline to bid for the Bat is Midnight (EST) of 30th December (https://bit.ly/YurajBatBid).

Celebrate New Year at Philadelphia’s Annual Mummers Parade

USA Today’s 10 Best Readers’ Choice for 2021 named Philadelphia’s most unique annual traditions, the Mummers Parade the Best Holiday Parade in the nation. This must-see holiday event is held each year on New Year’s Day in downtown Philadelphia. The event features thousands of costumed Philadelphia residents representing more than 40 clubs within five different divisions marching from City Hall to South Philadelphia along Broad Street. Each club puts up a performance such as song and dance routines and is judged on costumes, musicianship, presentation, and more. The day is capped by show-stopping performances by the Fancy Brigades at the Pennsylvania Convention Center. This colorful and fun-filled event marks the day with its vibrancy and charm making it the perfect way to ring in the New Year with new hopes.

History of Mummer

The term ‘mummer’ goes back to medieval times and refers to wearing costumes accompanied by pulling pranks. The concept of dressing up and performing pantomimes during Christmas time was brought in by European settlers to Philadelphia in the 1600s. The first organized group of Mummers was New Year’s Shooters and Mummers Association who would sing carols door-to-door, seeking food and drink, while also firing into the air to “shoot in” the New Year. The first formal, city-sponsored Mummers Parade took place in 1901 which has evolved over time and has welcomed under-represented communities of the city.

The Parade Route

The parade starts at 9 a.m. at the Philadelphia City Hall and makes its way south on Broad Street to Washington Avenue, stopping to perform along the way. Performance areas are set up along South Broad Street, also known as the Avenue of the Arts. Once the Fancy Brigades finish the route, they head into the Pennsylvania Convention Center to perform twice for ticket holders. Their first show, the Fancy Brigade Family Show, begins at 11:30 a.m. The groups perform again at 5:00 p.m. for the Mummers Fancy Brigade Finale. Attending the Philadelphia Mummers Parade is free for all. Families and fans of all ages line the streets along the parade route to marvel at the colorful costumes as the Mummers march by.

Parade Divisions

The Mummers comprise different divisions based on their ideas, inspiration, and styles of dressing and performances. The various divisions or representations are namely The Comic Division, The Fancy Brigades, The Fancy Division, The String Band Division, and the Wrench Brigade Division. The Comics are the heart and soul of the Philadelphia Mummers Parade and trace their roots back to the ancient world, the Middle Ages, and early America. The Comics compete in a variety of categories and are judged for their costuming and presentations. It’s all about satire, mockery and light-hearted fun for this group. The Fancy Brigades perform four-and-a-half-minute mini-Broadway-style productions with massive props, scenery, and choreography inside of the Pennsylvania Convention Center at two different showtimes. As soon as the Fancy Brigades finish their first performance, they join their fellow Mummers on Broad Street before going back to perform a second time for the judges. The Fancy Division brings dazzling displays of color, form, and texture to life through

costumes and floats. The String Band division plays their own music and incorporates Broadway-style choreography along with props to perform a four-and-a-half-minute production in front of the crowd and judges at City Hall. The Wrench Brigade is the latest addition to the Mummers Parade, the Wench Brigade Division is noted for exhibiting dress-and-bloomers suits, painted faces, decorated umbrellas, and live brass bands.

Show-Stopping Performances at the Pennsylvania Convention Center

If you are one for art and culture, you must purchase tickets to watch the Mummers work their magic indoors. The Fancy Brigades hold two ticketed competitions inside of the Pennsylvania Convention Center.

Afterparty

Festivities continue for many Mummers who return to a stretch of 2nd Street in South Philadelphia, from Washington Avenue and Snyder Avenue, referred to locally as “Two Street.” Here, the revelry continues into the evening as Mummers perform and celebrate with family, friends, and local residents, a true testament to welcoming the New Year with new hopes.

The Mummers Fun Continues

The New Year’s Shooters and Mummers Museum is another cultural attraction for visitors. One can learn about the Mummers’ unique customs, including the right way to walk or “strut,” the importance of “dem golden slippers” and the colorful costumes worn by different marching clubs and bask in Philadelphia tradition in all its glory.

Green Spaces in San Francisco

San Francisco is full of green spaces —from the huge Golden Gate Park to the Presidio to small neighborhood parks and playing grounds. You can explore the “greener” side of San Francisco which gets “greener” day by day. And to be truly green, be sure to carry a reusable water bottle, a reusable shopping tote to carry all your shopping along the way.

EXPLORE GOLDEN GATE PARK

Experience miles of green lawns, bridle paths, lakes, flowers amid countless trees and 7,000 kinds of plants right in the heart of San Francisco at the Golden Gate Park. Here you’ll enjoy a treasure of varied attractions from top museums to exquisite gardens to extraordinary events like Outside Lands— you can even see Buffalo roam.

DOLORES PARK

Visit the “The Gay Beach,” one of the most popular parks in San Francisco, located at the intersection of three distinct neighborhoods, the Castro, Mission District and Noe Valley. Known for its congregation of young people and spectacular views of the City, it’s a great place to see and be seen.

THE PRESIDIO

The Presidio is a great escape – once a premier Army post, the Presidio is now a unique national park next to the Golden Gate Bridge. It offers spectacular vistas, nature, dining, a museum, picnic areas, and 24 miles of hiking trails to experience it all.

THE WIGGLE TO GOLDEN GATE PARK

In a city known for steep hills near impossible on bike or foot, take the Wiggle. Leave no carbon footprint by using your own power on this one-mile, zig-zagging bicycle route from Market Street to Golden Gate Park that minimizes hilly inclines for bicycle riders. Rising 120 feet (37 m), The Wiggle inclines average 3% and never exceed 6%. You can rent a bike from any one of several resources throughout the city.

CONSERVATORY OF FLOWERS

Waltz with the flowers at this living museum in Golden Gate Park housing rare and tropical plants. This historic San Francisco landmark bloomed in Golden Gate Park in 1879 is and one of the city’s great architectural gems. From Borneo to Bolivia, the 1,750 species of plants at the Conservatory represent tropical flora from more than 50 countries.

CABLE CARS

Hop onto a bit of San Francisco history, it also happens to be a great way to get around the City. Pick up at Hyde and Chestnut streets and enjoy views of Alcatraz and the Exhibition Ships at Hyde Street Pier. From Victorian Park at Hyde and Beach streets the cable car turntable offers stunning views of the Bay and Golden Gate. Jump on at the Nob Hill cable car intersection for amazing cityscapes down California and Powell Streets.

CALIFORNIA ACADEMY OF SCIENCES

The new California Academy of Sciences combines inventive architecture and eye-opening exhibits to inspire visitors to explore and protect the natural world. A museum for the 21st century, the Academy includes an aquarium, planetarium, natural history museum and scientific research facilities under one roof — a living one at that. Explore a different kind of Enchanted Forest by visiting a living, breathing indoor rainforest. From chirping birds to colorful chameleons, this is an experience filled with fascinating discoveries.

SAN FRANCISCO BOTANICAL GARDENS

One of the most beautiful public gardens in the U.S., San Francisco Botanical Gardens covers 55 acres and features more than 7,000 kinds of plants including outstanding geographical collections and unique specialty gardens as well as the most extensive botanical reference library in the U.S. Docent-led walks of the 17 extraordinary gardens are offered daily.

Tips to sustain your fitness resolution for 2022

By Dr Sandeep Gore, Director-Emergency Medicine, Fortis Hospital, Mulund

Every new year we typically make new resolutions. While making these resolutions is easy, sticking with them is difficult. Fitness-related resolutions make the top 10 list, but up to 80% of resolutions to be healthier, including promises to stay fit, are tossed aside by the end of the first quarter. Here are a few things you can do to sustain your fitness goals all through 2022.

CHOOSE A WORKOUT YOU ENJOY: Rather than opting for something that promises fast results but freaks you out more often, choose something more doable. If you love to run, then make a schedule for running every day for about 45 minutes to an hour. One can also indulge in running, swimming, jogging, brisk walking, cycling. But if you don’t like it, don’t do it. Forcing yourself to do a workout/program that you aren’t into will ascertain you breaking that promise.

TRY NEW WORKOUTS: If you get bored—or even if you love what you’re currently doing but are still down to try something new, consider trying something new. Whether it’s virtual or in-person, try a new type of workout that you haven’t done before. Not only might this make your routine a little more interesting, but it’ll challenge your body and muscle memory as well.

DOWNLOAD A FITNESS APP: From yoga to interval training to running, countless digital coaches are merely a swipe or two away for the cost of nothing at all. Plus, more and more boutique gyms are offering online streaming sessions so you can take your workout anywhere, even if it’s just the comfort of your living room. Before starting any vigorous training after 40 years, consult their physician first.

DON’T DEPEND ON THE WEIGHING SCALE TOO MUCH: Weight loss and weight gain should make you feel active and healthy, and if it doesn’t, then there is a problem. Factors like water retention and your menstrual cycle can make your weight fluctuate up to 10 pounds in a single day. There’s also the fact that muscle weighs more than fat, meaning you could be whittling your waist without seeing the needle on the scale move at all. But you’re not necessarily thinking that when you’re standing there looking at that unforgiving number. Instead, you might be blaming the nibble of chocolate you had the night before or vowing to double down on punishing workouts.

EAT HEALTHY AND DON’T INDULGE IN CRASH DIETS: Instead of depriving yourself of something you enjoy, be more mindful. Cut back, don’t cut out. Maybe for you, it’s sweets and chocolate, chaat items, or your nightly glass of wine. You need to allow those things in moderation. The idea is to have a reasonable sense of control without feeling deprived.

MAKING SMALL CHANGES: For instance, instead of taking an auto-rickshaw or a car to nearby places, take a walk. Use the stairs instead of the elevator at least for a few floors. Or even get into the practice of sweeping and mopping the floor.

TAKE TIME TO REST: Giving yourself a break is just as important to avoid burnout or injury. You might be tempted to throw yourself into a daily workout routine but easing your way into it will be more sustainable.

HAVE A POSITIVE ATTITUDE: Having a positive helps gratitude is one of the quickest and most effective ways to increase happiness, manage depression, and cultivate resilience.

Remember, focusing on setting up smaller but attainable weekly goals will help you to achieve overall main health & stability.

5 Influencer Marketing Agencies to Look out for 2022

Influencer marketing is an integral part of digital marketing that has been gaining popularity as the most effective tool for measuring the success of business-led initiatives. The process of identifying influencers, contacting, and selecting the most suitable ones, and then running campaigns with them followed by measuring and analysing the data can get too time-consuming. The hunt for businesses to have a distinct presence among the masses has made influencer engagement an essential part of any brand campaigns. With specialization spanning across the domain, the influencer marketing agencies are able to consult and provide the right mix of these integrated social media tools. They know the business and are equipped with the mechanisms and expertise required for leading controlled conversations.

Here are 5 Influencer marketing agencies that can help achieve your business goals with everlasting impact:

1. Viral Pitch

Viral Pitch, launched in 2020, is an influencer marketing, research, and analysis platform that represents all the influencer related information for brand’s references. It connects influencers with brands by helping businesses reach out to the best-suited influencers in order to create maximum impact and reach. The platform is on a mission to be synonymous and works on a holistic approach which quantifies all variables in the Influencer Marketing Space. Viral Pitch has 25+ brands on board and has collaborations with over 20k+ influencers. It also provides various services under one roof ranging from concept ideation, content production, pre/post-campaign analysis, to influencer metrics, brand campaign dashboard, etc. Viral Pitch connects influencers with the latest campaigns in the industry, where one can check, assess and pitch their offers to the brands directly.

2. Cofluencer

Launched in 2019, this influencer marketing agency claims to have worked with over 200 brands across the country. The most prominent names that have worked with include Ola Foods, Yahoo Cricket and Vedantu, among others. The company that recently bagged the Best Large Influencer Marketing Company award and caters to companies across industries such as banking & finance, education, food & beverage, healthcare and ecommerce. This is the world’s most recognized video making platform that helps in influencing through the content in the video. This platform appreciates your talent and brings you brands that help you upsell your talent and growth in the industry.

3.Winkl

Winkl helps you collaborate with thousands of influencers and manage your influencer marketing campaigns. The Winkl search engine is the largest platform that helps in discovering thousands of influencers across niche categories. The platform also gives you insights on any influencer profile within seconds. Its automated end-to-end campaign execution helps you to run, create and launch campaigns without any hassle, making your campaigns even more impactful.

4. WhizCo

WhizCo is a fast growing creator and influencer management agency. It is currently managing at least 10,000 content creators spread across different categories, geographical locations and languages. Though the platform has an impressive presence across different social media platforms like Facebook and Instagram,the company has also collaborated with some of the top home grown short video apps such as Josh for influencer engagement. WhizCo organizes workshops with different short video platforms to train the creators and create earning opportunities for them. Its creator pool has created more than 1 million pieces of content, garnering engagement of over 10 million.

5. Qoruz

Qoruz is an influencer marketing and intelligence platform that enables superior influencer discovery, quick and easy influencer outreach, and data-rich influencer marketing campaign analytics. Qoruz helps you find influencers from the largest database. You can access over 2,74,711 influencers from 100 categories and a zillion topics. All you need to do is search for categories, topics, hashtags, bio mentions, interests, professions, etc. across 5 major platforms: Instagram, Twitter, YouTube, Facebook, and Blog. After finding influencers, you can filter those influencers that are best suited for your business campaign.

Influencer marketing with its extensive outreach is an effective strategy that helps your brand develop credibility and simultaneously creates brand awareness amongst your target audiences through various social media campaigns. Adopting this new-age strategy helps brands create a significant impact on the huge number of people who already know, trust and follow these influencers.

Top 10 things to keep in mind when tackling winter-triggered sedentary diseases

By Dr Sandeep Patil, Chief Intensivist, Fortis Hospital, Kalyan

Did you know that the winters can give rise to sedentary lifestyle diseases? Everybody knows that winter is also the Flu season, but Influenza isn’t the only thing that you have to worry about. In fact, winter weather has more of an impact on your health than you might realize. Cold temperatures that keep people indoors can lead to a lack of exercise and can make people more susceptible to illness. Being indoors more leads to sedentary habits and this may lead to fluctuation in cholesterol levels causing ailments like Diabetes, Heart Disease and more. Moreover, winter can also lead to overeating. The richness and abundance of food around the holidays combined with this natural tendency to eat just a ‘little more’ cause many people to gain weight. Now, you might wonder if a slight weight gain is fine but if this weight gain is not controlled, it may lead to chronic ailments.

Here are a few things you can do to stay fit despite the cold climate.

EXERCISE REGULARLY:

Physical activity is an important aspect to keep one fit throughout the winter. Daily routine of Yoga or any form of physical activity will help keep you warm and boost the immune system, improving defense against seasonal ailments like Flu and Cold. But if you have certain conditions, such as Asthma, heart problems or Raynaud’s Disease, check with your doctor first to review any special precautions you need based on your condition or your medications.

HEALTHY DIET:

Eating a well-balanced diet including whole grains, lean meats, fish, poultry, legumes, nuts & seeds, herbs & spices as well as plenty of fresh fruits & vegetables are essential to boost the immune system. We can also have an optimum intake of foods rich in Vitamin C, as it helps to strengthen our immune system and to keep your body fit. Moreover, abstain from consuming high-calorie winter delights.

MANAGE STRESS:

When you feel stressed out, take a break and do something that gets your mind off stress. This gives your stress response system a chance to rest.

REGULAR HEALTH CHECKS:

During winters, people prefer to stay cozy and indoors where they are in contact with several other people; thus, facilitating the speedy and easy transmission of diseases. Moreover, the foggy climate and less sunlight help in bacterial growth. Thus, health checkups in winter are very important as a preventive step.

MONITOR YOUR VITALS:

It is essential to keep a note of one’s blood pressure, heart rate and blood sugar level as well as consult a doctor in case major fluctuations are recorded.

ABSTAIN FROM SMOKING AND ALCOHOL:

Smoking and alcohol consumption in excess should be avoided. Alcohol has a toxic effect on the heart muscles. It can lead to Atrial Fibrillation — an abnormal heart rhythm. Smoking can aggravate heart problems, respiratory ailments and cause high blood pressure.

GETTING ENOUGH SLEEP:

Getting sleep is crucial because it helps regenerate the body while stabilizing energy and appetite levels the next day. As per data released by the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute, (NHLBI), it’s recommended that an individual should get at least 7 – 8 hours of sleep daily as it can optimize both mental & physical energy levels. Another point that should be mentioned is that if an individual suffers from Sleep Apnea, a serious sleep disorder, he/she should make it a point to get it checked immediately as it is linked to heart disease and arrhythmias.

DRESS FOR THE WEATHER:

People should avoid heading out the door half-dressed at all costs. It’s vital that people cover up themselves by wearing layers of clothing, especially a coat, hats, gloves and heavy socks to avoid Hypothermia (low body temperature). Since a lot of heat gets lost from the head, it’s also recommended to wear a scarf and/or a hat before stepping outside.

AVOID THE OUTDOORS:

One should try and avoid staying outside for prolonged periods as much as possible. Staying indoors will help in regulating body temperatures and in keeping warm.

WASH HANDS FREQUENTLY:

It has been long known that respiratory infections can increase the chances of getting a Heart Attack. One should avoid such scenarios by washing hands regularly with soap and water. Additionally, if any flu symptoms are noticeable such as a fever, a viral cough, or body aches, immediate steps should be taken to consult a doctor for a flu shot or antiviral medication