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Hearing about rising black & white fungal infections amid COVID19?Do not panic. Instead get

By Dr Anita Mathew

Alongside COVID19, India now battles two types of fungal infections – Mucormycosis or ‘black fungus’ – a rare, yet lethal infection and Candidiasis also called the ‘white fungus’. Fungi is ubiquitous in the environment; also they are commensals in our mouth. Hence fungal infections are known to occur whenever there is reduced immunity like HIV, Cancer, and those on immunosuppressive drugs. Mucormycosis is a debilitating disease which even in pre-COVID times have been seen in poorly controlled diabetic patients. It’s treatment needs multidisciplinary approach of surgery to clear the disease and medicines to curb the spread. The important thing is to control sugars and keep it in check.

GOVERNMENT IS ALREADY PREPING UP: 

In view of the rising numbers of the black fungus, the government has already begun to revamp up procurement and availability of Intravenous (IV) Liposomal Amphotericin B which is an anti-fungal medication. The supply position is expected to improve with extra imports of this drug and increase in its production domestically. Moreover, states have been requested to put in place a mechanism for equitable distribution of supplies amongst Government, Private hospitals and health care agencies. Given thus, the Maharashtra government set up a taskforce as the state is witnessing a three to four times surge in Mucormycosis.

WHY IS THE BLACK FUNGUS? 

Mucormycosis is a serious but rare fungal infection caused by a group of mold called Mucormycetes. It causes blindness, organ dysfunction, loss of body tissue, and even death if not treated on time. It can affect areas from where it can be inhaled through the nose/ sinus/ lung. If it enters from a wound or skin, it can cause a local infection. But if it enters from the sinus, it can involve the eyes and brain.

According to the taskforce advisory, infection with Mucormycosis should be suspected when there is:

  • Sinusitis – nasal blockage or congestion, nasal discharge (blackish/ bloody)
  • Local pain on the cheekbone, one-sided facial pain, numbness or swelling
  • Blackish discoloration over the bridge of nose/palate
  • Loosening of teeth, jaw involvement
  • Blurred or double vision with pain
  • Thrombosis, necrosis, skin lesion
  • Chest pain, pleural effusion, worsening of respiratory symptoms

WHY AMPHOTERICIN B IS EFFECTIVE FOR THE BLACK FUNGUS?

Treatment of Mucormycosis involves a combination of surgical debridement of involved tissues and antifungal therapy. Intravenous (IV) Amphotericin-B, Posoconazole and Isavuconazole is part of antifungal therapy. The duration the treatment is of around 3wks, followed by oral medicines for another 3 to 6wks.

WHAT IS WHITE FUNGUS? 

Candidiasis is an infection caused by a type of fungus called Candida. This too impacts people with immune-compromised state and lowered immunity such as people with HIV, Cancer, transplant surgery, Diabetes and so on. The symptoms of this fungal disease are similar to Coronavirus infection if it impact the Lungs. The disease can be detected by performing HRCT test on an infected patient.

CAUSE OF RISE IN FUNGAL INFECTIONS AMID COVID: 

Poor control in Diabetes is the biggest cause for the rising number, especially post-COVID. Also, patients with immune-compromised systems or those who have undergone transplants or people who are on immunosuppressants or on a ventilator for a long period of time are at higher risk. 

SCREENING SHOULD BE RAMPED UP TO IMPROVE EARLY INTERVENTION AND AVIOD PANIC: 

Screening for the black Fungus is a crucial step for early intervention. Also, elimination of predisposing factors for infection, such as Hyperglycemia, Metabolic Acidosis,  immunosuppressive drugs, and Neutropenia, is also critical. Due to the difficulties in establishing a definitive diagnosis, many patients will be empirically treated till the establishment of tissue diagnosis in high risk cases, which are clinically diagnosed, and started on treatment.

Right now, the nation is battling the pandemic on several fronts. The only way to tackle a crisis it through wise and informed approach. However, there is no need for panic. Judicious use of steroids, keeping strict diabetic control, maintaining oral and nasal hygiene will be helpful to reduce the risk of infection. To follow up with physician post covid will be important to diagnose case early. Both the government and the healthcare set-ups are geared up for the situation and is tackling it head on.

CITIZENS SHOULD PROTECT THEMSELVES: 

The most effective way to prevent fungus infections is to wear a mask while venturing out, especially to gardens, dusty areas, where there is garbage bumping or food rotting. Secondly, wear long clothes and have less exposure to skin. Most importantly for diabetic and other immune-compromised people, controlling sugar levels and blood glucose is a must. People who are prescribed steroids should be constantly monitored and the dosage should be reduced in consultation with your doctor. Importantly, steroids must only be taken after consulting with your doctor – do not self medicate.

About the Author

 Dr Anita Mathew, is the  Infectious Disease Specialist, at Fortis Hospital, Mulund

Exploring the ancient, lesser-known Buddhist caves in Maharashtra

To be observed on 26th May, 2021, Buddha Purnima commemorates Lord Buddha’s enlightenment and birth. Buddhist community celebrates this day with great fervor and zeal across the world. Incidentally, Maharashtra has the India’s largest Buddhist population, about 5.81% of the State’s total population. The State not only has rich Buddhist heritage and culture, it is also dotted withlarge and small Buddhist caves.

On this auspicious day of Buddha Purnima, Maharashtra Tourism showcases a few of the ancient yet lesser-known caves of the State. Which are the finest examples of some of the earliest Buddhist architecture, cave paintings and sculptures.

Kondivite/ Mahakali Caves- Mumbai

Exploring the ancient, lesser-known Buddhist caves in Maharashtra

Situated on Mahakali hills in Andheri East of Mumbai, The Mahakali Caves, also known as Kondivite Caves. Are a group of 19 caves built between 1st century BCE and 6th century CE. It consists of two groups of rock-cut caves – 4 caves to the north-west and 15 caves to the south-east. Most caves are viharas((rooms for monks) and cells for monks, but Cave 9 of south-eastern group is chaitya((prayer hall). These caves have statues of the Buddha and several carvings depicting tales from Buddhist religion.The inscriptions and scriptures on the walls are written in Pali language.This cave group can remind you about the Mauryan period cave site at Barabar Hill caves near Patana in Bihar. The polished stone exterior of the stupa can remind you of the typical Mauryan period polish. Stylistically, this cave group is dated from c. 1st c. C.E. to c. 12th c. C.E.

Thanale Buddhist Caves, Raigad

Exploring the ancient, lesser-known Buddhist caves in Maharashtra

Located at the foot of a cliff in Raigad, these are a bunch of 23 Buddhist caves, considered to be one of the oldest rock-cut temples of India. Built in the 1st century BC, the Thanale Caves is considered as the first caves to be excavated not only in Maharashtra but also in India. It has two Chaityas, two Stupas and the rest are Viharas. All caves are cut in a row and each cave is unique. Cave 3 has a dozen Buddhist stupas, and other caves have stone carvings, including remnants of paintings, discovered by archaeologist MN Deshpande. Cave No. 7 is the largest cave amongst all the others as it has been decorated with Buddhist scriptures and relics.

Bedse Caves, Pune

Exploring the ancient, lesser-known Buddhist caves in Maharashtra

Located in MavalTaluka of the Pune district, the Bedsa caves are a collection of Buddhist rock-cut monuments dating way back to the 1st century B.C. It comprises two main caves: Chaitya or a prayer hall housing a large stupa and a Vihara or the monastery.Both caves have rich architectural significance with stone carvings and artwork. The ‘Chaitya’ is carved with a stone screen and the verandah has tall pillars with beautifully carved images of animals and riders. The ‘Vihara’ is unique for its apsidal vault roof.

Bedse caves offer a lot of insight into evolution of Buddhism in India. The main Chaitya in the group in the cave no. 7 is a noteworthy specimen of the Buddhist Rock-cut architecture. It has a massive stupa with an ancient wooden umbrella (Yashti and Chhatra). The pillars in the Chaitya have ornately carved riders and animals on the capitals and at the entrance has the large and intricately carved Chaitya arch. The Vihara in cave no. 11 shows the transition phase between the Hinayana and Mahayana phases of Buddhism with its apsidal plan and vaulted roof. The antiquity of this cave group can be traced back to c. 1st c. B.C.E.

Gomashi Caves, Raigad

Exploring the ancient, lesser-known Buddhist caves in Maharashtra

Located in the Konkan region, this isolated cave was first noticed by Rev. J.E. Abbott in 1889. It is said to be excavated in first or second century CE in the Hinayana tradition but was later occupied by followers of the Mahayana tradition, at which time an image was installed in the cave of the Buddha under the Bodhi tree, finely carved from black basalt. The cave has only one cell.

Pitalkhora Caves Aurangabad

Considered as one of the earliest centers of rock-cut architecture in India, it dates back to the 2nd century BC. While four of the caves are chaityas or prayer halls, the rest are ‘viharas’ or residential cells. The main entrance to the caves has a wide balcony with statues of a ‘naga’ (snake), guards and a row of elephants. There are a total of fourteen . The first cave was used as a monastery or ‘vihara’.. The third cave has beautiful paintings and there are 37 pillars that separate the aisle from the hall. There are many stunning images of Lord Buddha in various poses. There are animal designs, elephants, guards and Yaksha statues in the caves.

Talking about the importance of Buddha Purnima for Maharashtra, Dr. Mayur Thackeray, Assistant archeologist, Directorate of Archeology and Museums, Maharashtra said that, “One of the delineating features of Buddhism’s presence in Maharashtra is the Rock-cut Architecture of which sites can be found in plenty in the state. According to an estimate, out of 1200 Rock-cut Architectural sites in India, Maharashtra has a majority share of these Rock-cut architectural sites which were simply an imitation of the wooden structural architecture into stone. The purpose was straight, to perpetuate the message of Dhamma for centuries to come in this land. These Rock-cut architectural sites are majorly found near the important ancient settlements and trade routes.

Further

They primarily functioned as the spiritual and monastic establishments supported equally by the royals, nobles and commoners in reverence for Buddhism.  
The Buddhist Rock-cut architectural sites in Maharashtra indicate the presence of all major sub-schools of Buddhism. Such as the Theravada (Hinayana), Mahayana and Vajrayana and can be roughly dated from c. 3 c. B.C.E. to c. 14 c. C.E. The earliest of the Buddhist Rock-cut cave sites are very simple, plain in architecture. And ornamentation with no representation of Tathaghata Buddha who is shown symbolically while the later period Buddhist Rock-cut cave sites are profusely ornate and elaborate in plans with depiction of Buddha in various forms and postures.”

The Buddhist caves are a symbol of the religious splendor of Maharashtra. They resemble the artistic existence of Buddhism that stands for peace, non-violence and harmony.

Must have Sports Equipment for Home Gym

By- VaibhavSomani, Director, Gravolite

Everyday is another chance to get stronger, to eat better, to live healthier and to be the best version of you. With Covid issue uprising in the country once again, the government has taken certain measures to curb its further spread. Some places are seeing complete lockdown and some places have weekend and night curfews. However, all public places like gyms, spas, auditoriums, sports complexes have been shut.

In such a scenerio home work outs have become a must to stay healthy. For many people, execrcise is a way of life, it’s a habit that they have formed over a period of time and they do not wish to give it up just because of external limitations. With the ongoing pandemic situation, no one knows how things going are to turn out in the future. So, people are getting inclined towards setting gyms, doing the physical workout at home. Here are the few sports equipments we have listed for you which you must have while working out at home.   

Yoga mat

Must have Sports Equipment for Home Gym

With yoga one can work towards a healthy physical and mental self. However, doing yoga on a hard floor can hurt and damage your back. Or using a towel or a carpet may slide while doing any complex poses, so it is required to have a yoga mat.

A yoga mat guarantees good grip and prevents you from serious injuries. It keeps your body warm and provides energy flow throughout your body while doing yoga poses. Yoga mats help in improving balance, stability, provide comfort, and also protects you from injury. 

Do yur study on what kind of yoga mat best suits you before making your purchase.

Dumbbell set

Must have Sports Equipment for Home Gym

Dumbbells target different muscle group and this is an important gym equipment purchase. Dumbbells come in different sizes, shapes and materials, ranging from very light to very heavy, depending on who will be using them. From toning your muslces, to burning calories, to strengthening bones dumbbells help in activating different muscles and stimulate muscle growth.

Jump rope 

Must have Sports Equipment for Home Gym

As children I am sure most of us must have used a skipping rope during our playtime. Well, skipping rope is one of the super-convenient, easy, and effective home exercises and is a must-have equipment for home exercise. It has an ample number of health benefits, as skipping combines cardio and aerobic exercise which helps to tone the calves, tighten your core, build stamina, and improve your lung capacity. 

Resistance Band 

Must have Sports Equipment for Home Gym

Resistance bands are an inexpensive addition to your home gym equipment and can be the best alternative to machines. A resistance band can be used for both the upper and lower part of the body, also it exerts a particular amount of force on your muscle when stretched and adapts easily for multiple fitness levels. These bands are best for mproving flexibility and helping in muscle stimulation. 

Indoor Cycle

For those stubborm tummy fats,indoor cycling is the best way to burn your calories and abdominal fat stored in your body. It helps you shed fat, improves your heart health, and boosts your muscle endurance. Although it may occupy some space within your premises, as stationary ride helping in cardio exercises, indoor cycles build your cardiovascular endurance.

Pull up bar

Not for the fainted hearted though, pull-up bars equipment would need some through practice.Pullups help in building functional strength, as it uses the whole body and they are easy on the joints. When you are lifting your body mass with the movement it will improve your body strength, stamina and endurance level.

Irrespective of whether you are a beginner or a trained fitness enthusiast, physical execrise is a must specially in today’s times. Coupled with a healthy diet, enough sleep and practicng mental awareness, during these anxious times will be important. You can awlays start small and include some form of exercise in you daily life. Afterall, its wisely said, “the journey of a thousand miles, begins with one step.”

Here’s why vaccinating your child against Flu could be effective in the 3rd wave of COVID19

By Dr. Jesal Sheth

COVID19 in children has remained a matter of great concern amongst parents, Epidemiologists, and medical professionals ever since the pandemic hit us. While studies have shown that children are less susceptible to developing a severe infection from the virus. In the past few months we have seen a steady rise in COVID cases among kids. Moreover, there is still no guarantee whether children are entirely protected from the virus. Also, epidemiological studies show that the first wave severely impacted people above 60yrs. The second wave affected the younger generation and now that most adults are either infected or vaccinated. It is expected that children may be at a higher risk in the third wave. Hence, there is an urgent need to look at ways by which we can protect the child or at least reduce the severity of illness.

FLU VACCINATION FOR KIDS TO PREPARE FOR THE THIRD WAVE OF THE PANDEMIC:

Indian Academy of Pediatrics (IAP) recommends giving annual Flu shots to all children below 5yrs. Recent studies conducted during the pandemic,in US’ Michigan and Missouri, among children infected with COVID19. Showed that those children who had been vaccinated with inactivated Influenza vaccine during the Flu season in 2019-20 in the US, had slightly reduced risk of catching COVID19 infection. As well as reduced risk suffering severe disease. 

HOW DOES THE FLU SHOT PROTECT YOUR CHILD FROM COVID SEVERITY?

SARS-CoV-2 and Influenza have similar epidemiologic and clinical features. With the ongoing COVID19 crisis, additional Influenza infection may convert the pandemic into a ‘twindemic’ situation; vaccinating a child with Flu shots will offer possible benefit of viral interference, preventing infection risk and bringing down infection severity among children in the possible 3rd wave. 

Also, prevention of Influenza infection in children by vaccination will lead to decreased need for COVID19 infection testing, decrease healthcare burden, and will not overburden healthcare resources.Maharashtra’sPediatric Taskforce therefore recommended, that immunization of all children against Influenza will play a pivotal role in the fight against COVID19 in the possible 3rd wave.

CAN KIDS TAKE BOTH AND FLU AND COVID VACCINE?

It is important to note that the Flu vaccine and COVID vaccine are different. A gap of 4 weeks needs to be maintained between the 2 vaccines so that the child gets ample time for the antibodies to develop, and to build immunity against all kinds of viral interferences.

 About the Author

Dr. Jesal Sheth,is the Senior Consultant-Pediatrician at Fortis Hospital, Mulund

Dr. Jesal Sheth on children vaccine for covid 19

EMPORIO ARMANI EYEWEAR COLLECTION

SPRING/SUMMER 2021

STYLE AND SUSTAINABLE FREEDOM

Giorgio Armani, ever attentive to the issue of environmental responsibility, continues to pursue the brand’s responsible approach with Emporio Armani Eyewear, presenting in 2021 a selection of eyewear made in eco-friendly materials.

EMPORIO ARMANI EYEWEAR COLLECTION

The focus on sustainability takes shape through a series of coordinated responsible actions: from product design and construction, to the use of recycled materials, and continued communications aligned to initiatives planned throughout the upcoming year.

The ADV campaign, shot in Milan, attained EMA Gold Seal Green certification from the Environment Media Association. A sustainable agenda set early in the shoot phase ensured considerable savings were made in resources and a consequent reduction in greenhouse gas emissions. Those remaining were then offset by supporting Agrocortex, a REDD+ off-setting project aimed at preserving biodiversity and combating climate change. The collection’s display materials and connected packaging are equally designed with minimal impact in mind. In fact, they are produced with 100% recyclable FSC paper and

cardboard. The product packaging has also been addressed and is made from materials such as recycled polyester. No part of the process has been left untouched.

EA 4162

EMPORIO ARMANI EYEWEAR COLLECTION

– Large, feminine cat-eye sunglasses. They are made from bio-acetate, a material mainly deriving from natural elements, and form part of the collection’s sustainable selection. The model is available in glossy black and in a new green version with streaks. The tone-on-tone gradient lenses are also made from a material partially deriving from renewable sources. The temples bear the Emporio Armani logo.

EA 4163

EMPORIO ARMANI EYEWEAR COLLECTION

– Square sunglasses. The frames of this model are made from transparent bioacetate, a material that partially derives from natural and sustainable sources, with partially bio-based lenses. Available in transparent green with brown lenses or in glossy black with crystal temples and smoke grey gradient lenses. Emporio Armani logo on the temples.

EA 3179

EMPORIO ARMANI EYEWEAR COLLECTION

– Optical glasses with rectangular lenses and minimalist frames, made from bio-acetate deriving mainly from renewable sources. Available in transparent green or in glossy black with transparent grey temples, they sport a white Emporio Armani logo on the temples.

EA 3180

– Panto optical glasses with soft profiles. This model is part of the Emporio Armani sustainable design project. Elegant and feminine, they are made from bioacetate, a material that partially derives from renewable, biodegradable and recyclable sources. Available in glossy black or with a refined green streak design, with Emporio Armani logo on the sinuous temples.

House of Badnore

Father’s Day Luxe

House-of-Badnore

House-of-Badnore presents Designed to suit ones with a regal and exclusive taste, the range consists of statement pieces of Cufflinks. Pocket squares, Bandhgala buttons along with pocket square & cufflink sets. From intricately enamelled motif on cufflinks in silverplate. To subtle yet striking and regal Bandhgala buttons have an exotic appeal in delicate enamel work & stones. Pocket squares ranging from vibrant hues to neutral washed-out textures & abstract prints to minimal pattern. Make an outstanding individualistic style statement and the Matching pocket square and cufflink sets accentuate the debonair touch. 

  • House-of-Badnore
  • House-of-Badnore
  • House-of-Badnore
  • House-of-Badnore

Price range – Starting INR 1300

Availability: http://www.houseofbadnore.com

  • House-of-Badnore
  • House-of-Badnore
  • House-of-Badnore
  • House-of-Badnore

Mystic Valley -Summer Skincare

Refreshing Summer skincare Essentials 

Cucumber Clouds & Green Tea Drizzle Face Pack Rs. 675/-

 For sensitive and dry skin. Cucumber extract helps in soothing and relaxing, while green tea keeps your skin youthful and healthy.

  • Mystic Valley -Summer Skincare
  • Mystic Valley -Summer Skincare
  • Cucumber Clouds & Green Tea Drizzle Face Pack

Rippling Vitamin C Waves Serum Rs. 2,815/-

  • Mystic Valley -Summer Skincare
  • Mystic Valley -Summer Skincare

 A harmonious blend of antioxidants that brightens, tightens & smooths the skin. Vitamin C is renowned for protecting skin from UVA and UVB damage and for improving the appearance of sun-damaged skin.

Midnight Mint & Chocolate Crescent, Cooling Shower Gel Rs. 1,125/-

  • Mystic Valley -Summer Skincare

A gentle and clear body wash, made with luxurious cocoa butter that softens and cleanses the skin, while increasing its elasticity and suppleness. Fragrance – Cool and minty.

Charcoal Cliffs & Volcanic Sands, Exfoliating Scrub
Rs. 615/-

  • Mystic Valley -Summer Skincare

 Exfoliates and detoxifies the skin improving skincare. This raw, natural scrub, smoothens dry & rough skin. Refreshing menthol crystals create a cool and tingling affect.

Website: www.mysticvalley.in

Summer Make-up……make it last!

By Shahnaz Husain

The golden rule for summer make-up is “soft, delicate and very sparing.” Water-based and powder make-up items are better during summer. Waterproof make-up cosmetics are also available. For example, waterproof mascaras and eye liners will prevent eye make-up from running during the hot and humid season. Go for matte (non-shiny) lipstick and add just a dab of gloss in the centre for a delicious pout.

 Cleansing the skin before make-up is most important. Wash off with plenty of cool water. After cleansing, use chilled rose water to wipe the skin. This is not only refreshing, but also closes the pores. Dip cotton wool pads in it and wipe the skin.

 Water based foundation should be used in summer. Dot foundation on the face and blend with a damp sponge or with finger tips. Use foundation with beige tones, rather than pink. I feel beige suits Indian skin colour better.

 When you apply make-up, remember not to smear too much or rub it. Whether it is foundation or blusher, it is best to dot it with a light touch, using a finger tip, or an applicator. It can also be applied lightly and evenly with a damp sponge. Apply powder to set the foundation, but avoid applying too much. Or, avoid foundation and use only compact powder, which lasts longer than loose powder and provides a smoother finish. 

 A hint of blusher should be used on the cheeks. A powder blusher is easier to apply. Use it after you have applied powder and at the end of your make-up. Apply on the cheekbones and blend it outwards and slightly upwards.

Tips to make your make-up last longer in summer:

Wrap an ice cube in a clean cloth and wipe the face with it, just for a few seconds. This helps to close the pores.

For oily skin, apply astringent lotion with cotton wool, to close pores and reduce oiliness.

When you apply powder, press the powder all over the face and neck, with a slightly damp sponge. This helps it to set and last longer.

Use powder eye shadows and powder blush-on.

If you use kajal, after applying on the lower lid, just below eyelashes, apply a line of grey or brown eye shadow over it. This prevents smudging and helps make-up last longer.

Blot the make-up with tissue.

Applying foundation on the lips before helps lipstick last longer.

About Shahnaz Husain

Shahnaz Husain, pioneer of the Ayurvedic beauty movement, heads the Shahnaz Husain Group, with a global network of franchise ventures and 375 Ayurvedic formulations. A Case Study at Harvard for Brand Creation, she is now a Harvard Subject for “Emerging Markets” She was honoured with the Padma Shri Award and is the first woman in 105 years to receive the World’s Greatest Woman Entrepreneur Award from Success, the U.S. business magazine. Indeed, Shahnaz Husain is a leading international beauty icon.

Ace Badminton Player Jwala Gutta & actor Vishnu wore outfits by Rimple and Harpreet Narula for their North Indian wedding ceremony!

“Jwala Gutta chose a lilac tulle & silk lehenga paired with sheer dupatta and Vishnu wore a pale grey silk sherwani along with a silk churidar from designer Rimple and Harpreet Narula for their North-Indian wedding ceremony”

Jwala Gutta: @jwalagutta1

Vishnu Vishal: @thevishnuvishal

Both outfit by: @rimpleandharpreet

Styled by: @jukalker

Captured by: @eshaangirri

Jwala Gutta’s outfit detail description:

Ace Badminton Player Jwala Gutta actor Vishnu wore outfits by Rimple and Harpreet Narula

Jwala Gutta in a lilac tulle and silk lehenga for her wedding. The layered tulle skirt features resham and kasab rendered chrysanthemums, roses and cherry blossoms interspersed with birds of paradise, derived from an archival “chinoiserie” textile, layered over a sequin and crystal encrusted ground. It was paired with an illusion panel tulle blouse and a sheer dupatta

Vishnu’s outfit detail description:

Ace Badminton Player Jwala Gutta actor Vishnu wore outfits by Rimple and Harpreet Narula

Vishnu chose a pale grey silk sherwani for his wedding. The jacket features tonal embroidery motifs derived from a vintage textile, rendered on the silk base with kasab-dori marodi ka kaam, resham aari ka kaam, dabka, sequins and pearls. It was layered over a khadi kurta that features resham zardozi and gota textures. The look is completed with a silk churidar

Unique Experiences for Your Travel Bucket List

 Surf an eternal wave at Cheval Blanc Randheli:

You can now experience the thrill of surfing the waves, regardless of the sea condition in Maldives! Cheval Blanc Randheli launched the first ever Surf Simulator in Maldives late last year. All guests, from beginners to the most experienced surfers of all ages, are invited to ride a wave.

Situated in the pristine Noonu Atoll, Cheval Blanc Randheli is an intimate and contemporary haven, a 40-minute journey north of Malé. The resort offers unforgettable experiences like private snorkeling and diving, moon-lit yoga, family desert island adventures, in-villa spa treatments and sunset cruises, and more.

WEBSITE : https://www.chevalblanc.com/en/maison/randheli/news/news-surf-an-eternal-wave-randheli/

Luxury Camping in Antarctica with White Desert:

Experience the magnificence of Antarctica with a stay at the ice continent’s first and only luxury camp, now easier than ever with the arrival of a private jet service. White Desert is the only company globally to have two luxury camps in Antarctica, with profoundly life-changing stays. Guests can either stay at their flagship luxury Whichaway Camp or at their new Wolf’s Fang camp.

Whichaway Camp is the first and only luxury accommodation in Antarctica, with high-tech and eco-friendly pods that accommodate up to 12 people. Offering warm hospitality, top-notch cuisine, and once-in-a-lifetime experiences, this eco-friendly camp will appeal to adventurous travellers seeking an exclusive escape in one of the last great wildernesses on earth. This super-stylish camp will undoubtedly add to your memories. In addition, one of the highlights of your stay here will be a close encounter with a colony of Emperor penguins.

WEBSITE: https://white-desert.com/

Ski Holiday at Cheval Blanc Courchevel

Plan the ultimate ski holiday at Cheval Blanc Courchevel, a contemporary ski-in ski-out Maison set in the prestigious Jardin Alpin of Courchevel 1850, France, with direct access to the world’s largest ski domain, les Trois Vallées. With just 36 elegant rooms and suites, Cheval Blanc Courchevel is an intimate and inviting haven where impeccable, personalised service creates an easy going and friendly atmosphere. Take delight in unique features like floating baths to simulate weightlessness, saunas, and private dining rooms. Skiers and non-skiers alike can experience the beautiful outdoors through memorable activities such as family ski trips or an ultra-chic ski touring trek – a different way of connecting and re-discovering the mountains.

Cheval Blanc Courchevel also offers exciting family activities such as dog sledding or snowman building with the accessories provided in the Maison’s own Snowman kit.

Each season, Cheval Blanc Courchevel collaborates with world class designers to create bespoke amenities and products that will enhance guest experience, anything from Loro Piana cashmere scarves with the Cheval Blanc emblem, to a custom-made children’s cows’ skin high chair.

WEBSITE: https://www.chevalblanc.com/en/maison/courchevel/

Live like a Bridgerton at The Lanesborough, London:

Act like nobility for a night with a package designed to bring the Bridgerton fantasy to life. Guests will spend the night ‘Living like a Bridgerton’ in one of The Lanesborough’s exquisite Regency-style rooms or suites, and will enjoy an indulgent breakfast served in bed. Dedicated butler service means not having to lift a finger, beyond promenading around London at leisure and savouring a delicious afternoon tea served in Hyde Park or back in one of the hotel’s gorgeous event spaces. A chauffeur will whisk guests off to make their fantasy a reality, by visiting Bridgerton’s real life filming locations around the city. ‘You are a Bridgerton, there is nothing you cannot do’

On the doorstep of Hyde Park, just a short walk from Harrods, Harvey Nichols and London’s most exclusive shopping district; Sloane Street and Knightsbridge, this grand luxury mansion has undergone an inspired renovation by the famed interior designer Alberto Pinto. The hotel is home to 93 luxurious suites and bedrooms, Michelin-starred Céleste restaurant, the vibrant Library Bar and Garden Room and the magnificent Lanesborough Club & Spa.

WEBSITE: https://www.oetkercollection.com/hotels/the-lanesborough/offers/live-like-a-bridgerton/

Natural Renewal at Chiva-Som:

Famed as one of the earliest pioneers of the wellness industry, guests choose Chiva-Som for its world-class facilities as well as the wellness team’s unparalleled skill and depth of knowledge. Chiva-Som has been attracting well-heeled visitors from far and wide with its selection of holistic treatments and immersive programmes geared towards helping form healthy habits and lifestyle transformations. Guests include celebrities such as David Beckham, Kate Moss, Serena Williams and royalty from around the world.Asia’s first comprehensive wellness resort, Chiva-Som is a beach front property spanning across seven acres of paradise. The resort has six modalities, offering guests the opportunity to focus on fitness, spa, nutrition, physio, ascetic beauty or holistic elements.

 Chiva-Som means ‘Haven of Life’ and this truly embodies the goals and philosophies of the resort. Chiva-Som believes that the Mind, Body and Spirit must be given equal care and attention in order for a person to transform their health; a retreat at Chiva-Som signals the start of this wellness journey. The beachfront resort is located in the town of Hua Hin, which lies 185 km south of the capital of Bangkok. It can be reached by car in under three hours, private plane in 25 minutes from Bangkok and chartered helicopter in 40 minutes from Bangkok.

WEBSITE: www.chivasom.com

Uber luxury stay at the Armani Hotel Dubai:

The location of the hotel makes its unique and must experience once in a lifetime property. Nestled within Burj Khalifa, world’s tallest tower occupying concourse level through to level 8 and levels 38 and 39, Armani Hotel Dubai offers sweeping views across the city and Arabian Gulf. With its own dedicated entrance, it is situated within walking distance of The Dubai Mall, the world’s largest retail destination, set within the vibrant Downtown Dubai business and leisure district.

An oasis of peace and tranquility in the heart of a bustling city, the 12,000 ft2 Armani/SPA reflects the Armani lifestyle and design philosophy, offering unique spaces and outstanding service for individually personalised treatments, personal fitness, sequential thermal bathing, creative SPA cuisine or simply, private and social relaxation areas. 

WEBSITE: https://www.armanihoteldubai.com/