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Tweeting
for a better world Gold
that doesn’t glitter
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Tweeting for a better world
That
social networking has taken the whole world by storm is no exaggeration. Relationships, socialising, sharing, etc. have been completely redefined in the light of social networking. While a lot has been discussed and written about the ills of social media and how physical socialising is being compromised at the altar of being virtually social, one cannot turn a blind eye to the innumerable blessings that it has bestowed upon many. Networking is slowly coming of age. The initial frenzy of being virtually connected, the euphoria of finding long lost friends, the jubilation of seeing ever-increasing friend list — are gradually settling down as a routine. Social media is being used by many to give quick impetus to their fledgling businesses, new initiatives and even new ideas and thoughts. So one can call this phase of networking as that of substantial consolidation. Young India is rising. Educated, tech-savy, gadget wielding, tweeting, Facebook regulars, Instagram users, Flickr members and bloggers are instrumental in building a community of aware citizens. This is nothing less than a revolution. Its pace may be too slow for the world to register but annals of history would surely recognise this phase as trend setting. How else would one explain the spread of ALS (Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis) ice bucket challenge like wild fire? More and more people dumped bucket full of ice water on themselves and posted the videos on social networking sites while challenging others to follow or donate money for the ALS cause. The challenge started in Massachusetts with former Boston College baseball player Pete Frates, who was diagnosed with ALS in 2012. It soon became viral all over the world through Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. An Indian philanthropist, Manju Latha Kalanidhi, a Hyderabad-based journalist, who aims to save water and feed the hungry, gave the ice bucket challenge a new twist — the rice bucket challenge. It involves donating rice to a needy person. "Cook or buy one bucket of rice or biryani and feed the poor in your locality. If you cannot do this , donate medicines worth Rs 100 to the nearest government hospital," Kalanidhi wrote on her Facebook page. Since then the campaign has gained popularity among Indian netizens and the social media is flooded with the pictures and videos of people donating rice to needy and challenging their friends to follow suit. Another campaign which gained momentum and support on the social networking sites is that of The Ugly Indians. The campaign is working on the philosophy — 'Kaam Chalu Mooh Bandh’ (Stop Talking, Start Doing). Interestingly, they have chosen to remain anonymous but are executing their belief that there is no magic wand to solve the problem of growing filth in the cities. Their drive gained strength when they flashed pictures of the transformation of filthy places into shiny clean and tastefully decorated public spaces on sites like Facebook. While our cities are struggling to manage the burden of garbage that is getting generated by huge amounts every single day, people need to be just aware of solutions like Daily Dump. It is a simple technique of managing the waste by segregating it and treating it and converting it to compost — the natural fertiliser. The social media plays a big role in spreading the awareness about it. When one user uploads a video of sifting the home-made compost on any of the social sites, it invariably inspires many others to adopt this better way of living too. RJ Meenakshi of 94.3 FM began a campaign 'Women Without Fear after a being harassed right in the heart of Chandigarh last year. She says, 'Without social networking sites the campaign could not have gained the kind of recognition that it did'. Many NGOs, educational institutions and organisations lauded her effort and pledged their support to this drive. An initiative which needs special accolades is that of Child Sexual Abuse Awareness (CSA). A casual discussion among parents became a serious mission of spreading awareness against child sexual abuse which is plaguing our society at its most vulnerable spot. It did not take long to use the blogosphere as a medium to spread the message of Child Sexual Abuse Awareness and Prevention. Now five core people work on blogs, Twitter, Facebook and handle CSA mail account, interact with NGOs and take the initiative offline. April has been designated as Child Sexual Abuse Awareness Month (CSAM) and during that month survivors send in their stories and experts in the field post on issues related to this
peril. Many more support groups on the social networking sites are providing uninterrupted help and support for others in similar situations — whether these are cancer support groups for survivors or research groups or support groups for parents of ADHD kids. The members of these groups become part of an extended family and though virtually, one tends to get a feeling that one is not struggling alone. Social networking is here to stay and is being instrumental in much more than fun and entertainment. It is contributing to the society in a big way by being a platform for making people aware of their social responsibilities. A small initiative goes a long way whether it is sharing calls or tweeting for blood groups, lost and found, finding support or joining hands against social ills. Survey data consolidated by Georgetown's University shows that social media does motivate people to contribute to a cause beyond just likes and clicks. It is studied that more than half of the survey respondents (55 per cent) who engaged with causes via social media have been inspired to take further action. The most common actions taken include donating money (60 per cent), volunteering (53 per cent), donating personal items or food (52 per cent), or attending or participating in events. The main motivators are the authenticity of the causes and people get inspired by photos, videos, along with seeing family and friends taking further action. Main akela hi chala tha janib manzil magar, Log saath aate gaye aur kaarwaan banta gaya — Majrooj Sultanpuri (I had started off alone towards the goal, people began joining and formed a caravan). In today's world when we are co-existing with social media, one does not remain alone for long and need not wait much for the caravan to get formed. Inspiring thing is that young generation is rising up to take the social responsibility in its own unique way and technology is coming across as a great facilitator in this endeavour as well.
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Gold that doesn’t glitter Besides
wine, there are a few other things that get better with age. One of these is jewellery. There is a huge market for genuine antique jewellery and its demand has been continuously spiralling. Most of these vintage pieces cost far more than the inherent value of gemstones or precious metal they are made from as these mirror the trends and craftsmanship of bygone eras. Antique jewellery is usually passed on as an heirloom piece from one generation to another. For the same reason, what you find in jewellery stores might be just antique in design and not in make. Also referred to as estate jewellery, even if it is available in the market and is guaranteed to be genuine, it is so exorbitantly priced that it is beyond the reach of a common man. It is also one of the reasons why jewellers are reviving old designs and making jewellery, inspired from antique designs. Such jewellery goes through a process of oxidising and is sometimes buried in mud to give it that antique, regal look. The demand for it increases manifold during the wedding and festival season. Divine inspiration One of the primary reasons behind the popularity of Indian ethnic jewellery is the variety it comes in and diversity of designs. For example, the designs of jewellery pieces created in Rajasthan greatly vary from those popular in Kashmir or Punjab. Every region developed its own styles and motifs that were different enough to render jewellery a unique appeal. Take temple jewellery of South India for that matter. It is believed to be invented in the ninth century. It got its name when devotees began adorning deities with beautifully designed ornaments made of gold, silver and precious stones like diamonds, rubies, pearls, sapphires and emeralds. These timeless designs have never gone out of fashion. Even after centuries today, antique jewellery is still considered the finest handiwork of skilled craftsmen of southern states. Ranging from rings and necklaces to earrings and accessories for hair, feet and even plait, temple jewellery still makes for an elegant style statement as it did in ancient times. The evergreen designs Another fashion that has stood the test of time is ancient jewellery designed in the desert state of Rajasthan. Starkly different from temple jewellery, it reflects diverse culture of the state. There are stamps of different dynasties and epic battles that the state witnessed and the influence of the Mughals. A hallmark of antique Rajasthani jewellery was the fine polki and kundan work, which is as much in demand today, as it was centuries ago. Stamp of the regions Similarly, all other regions of the country have cast their influence on jewellery. In older times, Kashmiri jewellers got their inspiration of design from their beautiful surroundings and were mostly nature-inspired. Many had motifs of mynas, sparrows and bulbuls. Some were even designed in the shape of almonds, grapes and cherries, the fruits the beautiful state of Indian is known for.
Tips to buy
Buying genuine antique jewellery can be a tricky affair and if you are not taking the help of a professional, then it's important to keep in mind the following points:
Antique jewellery pieces from other states too bear the local signature. Gujarat has been known for its intricate meenakari work, Hyderabad for its pearl-encrusted jewellery and Punjab for its jadau sets. Despite the diversity, ancient Indian jewellery has evolved as an art form and has a great historical appeal and significance. It has stood the test of time and the brilliant artistry and creations of yore are reflected in contemporary designs. Leading jewellery brand, Tanishq recently created a special wedding collection with designs inspired from different regions of India including Bihar, Bengal, Rajasthan, Punjab and Gujarat to the coast of Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, Kannada, Andhra and Kerala. It was all about the ancient jewellery designs, which are still preferred by brides-to-be because of their intricate patterns. Check the price tag Usually, antique designs brought out by leading jewellery brands and designers are slightly more expensive than their contemporary counterparts. The price variance could be ranging from a few hundred rupees to a few thousand per gram. However, genuine vintage jewellery is an altogether different proposition. Though there is no rule book for selling or buying vintage pieces, it can be an expensive affair and sometimes even priceless depending upon its origin. Antique jewellery can fetch a fortune at international auctions. Leading auction houses like Christie's, Sotheby's and Bonham's regularly put vintage jewels under the hammer. At a recent Christie's auction, a 1910 circular-shaped ruby and diamond ring weighing 9.20 carats was sold for a mind-boggling Rs 21.70 crore. In the same auction, an antique diamond necklace made in 1870 by Garrad & Co. of London fetched Rs 18.35 crore. That explains why antique jewellery attracts some of the renowned collectors of the world who throng auction events. Antique jewellery prices can go up substantially
Secret wishlist
A gift forever
Vintage appeal
All that sparkles
Right for the bride
Colour coordinated
Rise & shine
On the popularity charts
Dual purpose
Style weds grace
Bling and beautiful
Crafted by finesse
Modern in design
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Bling it on
ALL-TERRAIN FLIER
Credit cardworthiness
BAG OF FORTUNE
CINDERELLA SANDALS
FINGER DAZZLER
Raise a toast
No popping this bubbly
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Vibha
Sharma
over a period of time and prove to be a sparkling investment for these collectors.
This classic, antique bangle is studded with kundan and polki stones to make it weigh 60 grams. Its vintage design takes you back in time when such designs were popular. The 22 carat bangle is studded with bright-coloured stones that add a different dimension to it. It also makes for a great statment jewellery, especially when you team it up with ethnic wear.
Dash of neon
This 22 carat bridal, gold waist belt by GRT jewellers is embossed with the image of Goddess Lakshmi and peacocks motifs. It is studded with rubies, pearls, emerald stones and diamonds. The spectacularly designed waist belt weighs around 315 grams. It is worn as a traditional piece of jewellery in some regions and has of late inspired many fashion designers to come up with their versions of it.
price:
www.nathella.net. Though primarily a pendant, it can also be used as a hair accessory.
Old world charm
This vintage, bow-shaped necklace is an epitome of rich craftsmanship. Twenty two carat gold and precious gems have been used together to make this beautiful piece of jewellery. Along with matching earrings that weight 170 grams in gold, it is guaranteed to make the wearer win compliments with its stunning design.
Beautifully handcrafted, this intricate antique-haram necklace has its design inspired from peacock motifs. Swirls of gold beads add elegance to this vintage necklace, which is studded with innumerable uncut rubies, uncut diamonds and emeralds. It was a staple bridal jewellery a few decades back.
It's a bird…It's a plane…No its Lisa Akoya, a French single one-engined ski-plane that can take off and land as easily on water or snow or on the ground or on any other surface. The two-seat amphibious ski-plane with a wealth of features is a dream-cum-true for people with adventure on their mind. It can travel up to 2,000 kilometres on a single trip at speeds of up to 250 kmph. The Akoya lands on a less than 650-foot field and folds its wings to be parked in a garage much like a car. And the best part, it costs a little more than a top-end car!
Over the years, Louis Vuitton has shown that the demand for its products keeps travelling northwards despite its somewhat stupendous price tags. The French luxury brand’s latest crocodile lady bag is an example. A party of its Fall 2014 collection, is made entirely out of made entirely out of crocodile skin and features two finishes-croc black and a rich cognac brown. Interestingly, unlike most of the brand’s products, this exotic high-end beauty doesn’t feature its signature LV monogram splashed all over. But then, when you have a LV dangling from your arm people know instantly, monogram or no monogram!
SUPERMAN'S VINTAGE APPEAL
BEAR WITH THIS
In her latest movie Maleficient, she may have played a vengeful fairy but in real life Angelina Jolie looks like a stunning princess in her high heels made so famous by the film. Created by Christian Louboutin, the sandals may have added value to her role of the Mistress of All Evil but now these are making fashion waves around the world. The French shoemaker has released a limited edition of the sandals. He has retained his signature red sole and the heel is sculpted to resemble the tendrils of smoke. Each pair is hand-made and being sold only on a made-to-order basis. If you, too, want to experience the Cinderella syndrome, go ahead and make an advance booking for these magical sandals.
ROAD SCORCHER