|
|
|
|
|
Divine decor
It's festive season and apart from shopping for the traditional garments and items for home décor, the lady of the house has also to shop for puja thalis, rangoli colours, diyas and idols of gods to bedeck her home. Though the variety is diverse and the market brimming with varied stuff, this season, it's silver to steel to metal and clay that has ruling the festive decor. For those who are looking for small temples for their homes, at Gujari-20 you can pick life-size temples in wood carving with varied hues or a metal carved temple in silver or copper colour. With 20 per cent discount on all items, this wooden temple would cost Rs 16,000 and for the metal temple it would cost you some Rs 1,000 and above. Says Ashish Satija from Gujari, "Festive season always sees the demand of spiritual things like puja thalis, agarbatti stands, idols and temples. And, from marble meenakari thalis and idols to agarbatti stands available with us are metal puja thalis and wooden Ganesha idols." Better known for their variety of cards and stuff toys, Archies too has lined metal idols, fancy candles and diyas for the occasion. Tiny metal idols that can be gifted or placed in cars are priced at Rs 50 and above and for the candles and diyas you have to make your choice, as options are galore. And, if you are specifically looking for puja thalis then you must visit Bittu Fashioners in Sector 27. Says Bittu, "This season definitely sees a rise in sale of puja thalis, but people usually buy thalis around Diwali. Though there are number of designs and patterns available but it's the metal, gold and silver plated puja thalis that sell the most." For the latest, he says, "This year we have metal thalis that have two katoris and a kalsh fixed." Crockery shops in Sector 19 and 35 too can be checked for more. Since gold prices are sky rocketing, silver idols and puja thalis are also a hit during this season. And if you are the one who wants a long lasting puja thali then you can check out various jewellery shops in the city for various designs and patterns. Says Dheeraj Bhola from Silver Mart-19, "These are traditional things and they do not lose sheen with time. Though styles don't change much, it's just the patterns that are altered now and then." That's for the market, but one can make a lot of things at home too. Says Prabhjot Dang, a homemaker from Mohali, "I make puja thalis and mitti ka diyas at home only." Elaborating it, she says, "To make a puja thali, all one needs is a steel plate, velvet cloth, stone sequins, golden or silver lace and feviquick to paste all these things. For mitti ka diya, I make use of air-drying clay, vegetable oil, a small wool or cloth piece, paint and glue." On how to make these things, she says, "For a diya, mould a small piece of clay into a small oval bowl. Form a lip on one end of the bowl. Allow the clay to dry. When the clay dries, colour the bowl and later when the paint dries, rub glue over the whole diya for a glossy finish. For the thali, fix the velvet cloth on the steel plate, paste lace around the rim and add stones and sequins according to your design pattern." That reads easy, so why not try? jigyasachimra@tribunemail.com
|
|
Art of chilling
C'mon everybody, pay attention. The invite was promising, so was the guest list and as were the description of the 'do'. What was supposed to be the Foster's Art of Chilling Party, turned out to be a bit too chilled on its part. Then what went wrong, where, how?
The thin crowd in the beginning picked up momentum later. Says Himanshu Purandare, head of brands, SABMiller India puts it, "Basically we are trying to promote and connect the idea of chilling out with the drink. Have a good time, relax, sit back and enjoy your drink, that sort of a thing." He adds, "Since, unlike Goa, there are no beaches here, we choose poolside for the ambience." There might be no beaches, but there were certainly rains, that made everyone pick their chairs, look for a roof and the ones in pool came out like a splash. Dj in the House
When we entered, there was Jay Sean track on, followed by Twist and umpteen Punjabi rap tracks, it's 18-year-old DJ Nakul Shourie, on the console. He says, "I started playing at the age of fourteen, my elder brother is also into the profession and so far I have done around thousand private shows." The guy learnt it on his own, picked the ropes the practical way but warns, "You have to be guided by the right kind of people." So, what's his kind of music? "Well, personally I like House, but honestly you can't survive playing just that in this country. You have to play commercial." He adds, "But I feel another five to six years and people will have developed tastes in music, for example electronica is really picking up." Punjabi punch
It's Punjabi singer Dilbag Singh there to give a lift to the party quotient, we catch up. After his album Oh Tina, post Channa, now what? He says, "Well, I have been extremely busy these past two months and very soon there'll be an album." He adds, "It has eight songs and three Hindi tacks. They'll be very romantic, very urban numbers." He adds, "The lyrics of the songs have been kept such that even a person who doesn't understand Punjabi will be able to make them out." Wait till December 1st week and anything else? "I have recorded a Parsi song, for my friend from Iran. I did not know the language, took tuitions for it and very soon you'll hear the song." So, what's he will be playing at the party? "They'll be my own tracks, I just played a song from my album OhTina." manpriya@tribunemail.com |
|
Mama don’t smoke
Pregnant women who smoke put their children at increased risk of developing psychotic symptoms in their teenage years, says a new study. The research published in the October issue of the British Journal of Psychiatry has shown a link between maternal tobacco use and psychotic symptoms.
Researchers from Cardiff, Bristol, Nottingham and Warwick Universities studied 6,356 12-year-olds from the Avon Longitudinal Study of Parents and Children. All the children completed an interview for psychotic-like symptoms, such as hallucinations or delusions. Just over 11 per cent of the children (734) had suspected or definite symptoms of psychosis. Smoking during pregnancy was found to be associated with an increased risk of psychotic symptoms in the children. The researchers observed a 'dose-response effect', meaning that the risk of psychotic symptoms was highest in the children whose mothers smoked the most heavily during pregnancy. The study also examined whether alcohol use and cannabis use during pregnancy was associated with a higher risk of psychotic symptoms. Drinking during pregnancy was associated with increased psychotic symptoms, but only in the children of mothers who had drunk more than 21 units of alcohol a week in early pregnancy. Only a few mothers in the study said they had smoked cannabis during pregnancy, and this was not found to have any significant association with psychotic symptoms. The reasons for the link between maternal tobacco use and psychotic symptoms are uncertain. But the researchers suggest that exposure to tobacco in the womb may have an indirect impact by affecting children's impulsivity, attention or cognition. Dr Stanley Zammit, a psychiatrist at Cardiff University's School of Medicine and lead author of the study, said "In our cohort, approximately 19 per cent of adolescents who were interviewed had mothers who smoked during pregnancy. "If our results are non-biased and reflect a causal relationship, we can estimate that about 20 per cent of adolescents in this cohort would not have developed psychotic symptoms if their mothers had not smoked. Therefore, maternal smoking may be an important risk factor in the development of psychotic experiences in the population."—ANI |
|
The dark secret Chemicals used for bringing out the darker shade in henna may result in blisters or even leukoderma Just for the sake of knowing, we look for the truth behind the saying, “If henna leaves a dark shade on the hands, the husband would be loving and caring.” It is ‘the’ reason why women on Karva Chauth readily take up any risk and why artists don’t give it a second thought before adding chemicals to henna. Anything for the perfect colour and the perfect husband! Anyways, we would find the source of this knowledge after we are done with discussing what all chemicals are mixed in henna to assure the desired colour and what are the harmful effects. Dr Ashima Goel, city-based dermatologist, talks of some serious repercussions of using unsafe henna. “Fetish for the dark shade is so much that women don’t even bother to know what all are mixed in it. The henna vendors who apply mehendi generally add a heavy quantity of hair dyes or other colourful chemicals to it,” informs Ashima. Besides the quite anticipated usual allergies, the dyes can cause some serious skin problems. “One can suffer from contact dermatitis, an allergic reaction on hands and wrists that cause oozing vesicles and blisters.” The effect can be worse in the form of permanent tattooing. “If chemicals react on the skin, it can leave behind permanent dark patches,” adds Ashima. These skin problems though can be easily treated, the severe itching they cause can be very painful. Dr Daljit Kaur, consultant dermatologist and cosmotologist, Fortis, says, “People with sensitive skin can also develop leukoderma, a condition of the skin, when it becomes discoloured.” The chemical-induced leukoderma needs to be treated with various re-pigmenting sittings, which is quite time consuming. A patch test is the most convenient prevention one can go for. Salochana Ahuja of Salochana’s suggests, “Prepare your own henna cone and add the required elements to it instead of using cones prepared in the market. Also, go in for a patch test 12 hours before applying henna to know if it is suiting your skin type.” Do not generalise the patch test. Dr Ashima says, “If the prepared henna suits an individual, it doesn’t guarantee it would suit others too as the skin tone might be different.” “For those who would settle for nothing less than a dark shade, the easier way out is to use a dark brown pencil to outline the design, which is safe and renders the exact effect you require,” says Salochana. But in case you still are vying for the dark shade, trust us, your darling husband would certainly not love your swollen blistered hands.
|
|
Body wise
But if you are on a weight-loss programme then eating out presents many challenges. What was once a bliss-filled, pleasurable lip- smacking treat becomes an exercise in culinary terror. However, it doesn't mean you have to forego eating in restaurants completely. Only you have to be more aware of what you are ordering and how much is on your plate. Be smart and learn to make the right choices and with a little planning and preparation and you can successfully eat out without blowing your diet.
|
|
A pinch of salt Our affinity for salt is a major trigger for hypertension A silent killer stalks every sixth person. Known as hypertension, the almost-no-symptom-disease is, in fact, among the most common conditions that most 40-year-olds visit their doctor for. If left unchecked, it can cause permanent damage, resulting in kidney failure, heart attack or stroke. “Indian people’s affinity for salt is a major trigger for the disease,” says Dr Sanjay Rajgopalan, professor of Medicine, Ohio University, Columbus, who was in the city for a conference. Hypertension, basically a racing blood pressure condition, has the potential to affect heart, the nervous system, kidneys and retina. “What is worse is that people are not likely to realise that they have hypertension for at least a decade until it manifests itself as a reason for an organ failure,’’ says Dr Sanjay. He adds, “Indians suffer from salt-sensitive blood pressure. In fact, the Western India Diabetes Survey has found that 66 per cent of the diabetes patients who responded to survey also had hypertension. “When diabetes and hypertension occur together, we call it the deadly duo,’’ says Dr Sanjay. Is stress a reason for the galloping rise in hypertension cases? Stress apparently is only a trigger as only people with a genetic predisposition can develop the condition. He says that as cardiovascular problems are more in men who are over 50 years and in post-menopausal women, urban metros with their inadequate resources for food, training and exercise incidence at earlier ages and progression to severe stage come more early than anticipated. So, while the American guidelines suggest that 90 per cent of the people over 55 years of age are likely to suffer from high blood pressure at some stage of their life, the age could be lower in India. However, what doctor highlights is that hypertension is easily preventable. “There is a lack of consciousness of what are good health practices,’’ says Dr Sanjay. “People don’t give priority to their cardio-vascular health, they lead sedentary lives with no concept of proper nutrition or fitness regimen.’’ Symptoms Although majority of the people, who suffer from it, do not have any symptoms, there are a few signs that need to be watched out for: • Palpitations • Breathlessness • Giddiness • Headaches • Neck pain • Blackout • Visual disturbances. Causes & risks Almost 90 to 95 per cent of hypertensive patients have no cause. This can be termed as essential hypertension. Some of the causes that are termed as secondary hypertension may be: • Kidney ailments (renal) • Endocrinal ailments or hormonal problems, for example thyroid function / adrenal function. • Gender — Men are more prone to hypertension compared to women • Genetic — Heredity plays an important role. • Obesity — Obesity is defined as having a body mass index greater than 30 kg/m2. It is very closely related to high blood pressure and hypertension. • Smoking — The intake of nicotine is said to have increased the chances of hypertension. • Excess alcohol — Consuming more than one to two drinks of alcohol per day tends to raise blood pressure in those who are sensitive to alcohol. • Diabetes — Diabetes and hypertension are largely correlated • Sedentary lifestyle — It contributes to development of obesity and BP Diagnosis • If you have a family history of hypertension, go for regular BP check ups after the age of 35. • If you notice any of the above mentioned symptoms, get your BP checked by a doctor. Three readings must be taken • If your B.P. fluctuates then go for ambulatory monitoring (where a device is attached to your body and the pressure recorded for 24 hours). Treatment Once you have been determined with hypertension, it can be treated thus: Self restriction • Keep LDL-cholesterol in check, under 120 mg • Keep blood sugar under control. Weight reduction • Eat plenty of fresh fruits/vegetables • Canned food should be avoided. • Avoid egg yolk/cheese/butter/red meat/potato chips/salted snacks and peanuts. Regular exercise • Exercise for 30 minutes five days a week • Aerobic exercises are recommended • Yoga/meditation/outdoor trips are very good • Weights should be avoided. anujaj@tribnunemail.com
|
|
Awards and admiration
The First Friday Forum since its inception in 1999 had made significant contribution in the propagation of literary, visual and musical arts emerging as a vibrating forum of multidimensional excellence. And recently, it conferred awards of excellence to professionals for their contribution in respective realms at a function held at the Government Museum –10. “Our aim is to identify and acknowledge the work of professionals who have sensitised and contributed significantly towards nature and environment,” says Dr S.S. Bhatti, its founder president. The winners circle included R.R. Handa, the senior-most architect in tricity, was honoured in recognition of his services to the cause of architecture. Shobha Koser, kathak guru, was awarded for being India’s most successful art and cultural ambassadors .Pandit Yashpaul won the award for his life-long dedication towards Hindustani classical vocal music heritage. N.S. Rattan was recognised for his contribution to modern Punjabi poetry and short story writing. S.D. Sharma was conferred the award in recognition of his writings for creating awareness on the literary, visual and performing arts in the city. Balvinder Saini was awarded for her conceptualisation of The New Architectur.Surinder Bahga, an architect, author, researcher, journalist and editor, was awarded for a global import of the science of architecture. Certificate of Commendation was awarded to Angadbir Singh and Oshin Kataria for their essay on Architecture and Music. Pankaj Mala Sharma, chairperson, PU music department, delivered a lecture on Music Performance Platform in Ancient India: An Architectural Insight.
|
|
Spice up
Jewellery is one of the most important accessories and goes a long way in enhancing beauty and also sets off our outfits. Where grooming is concerned, it is the final presentation that matters. Jewellery actually puts the finishing touches to our attire and the look that we wish to present. It also helps to add style to the clothes we wear. Jewellery can make even a plain outfit look dramatic. You can use them to harmonise with your features, your clothes and even your mood. For jewelry, dull oxidised gold may be better than bright yellow gold. Western designs, like geometric ones, or small pendants and delicate necklaces, can be worn, rather than the traditional designs or heavy jewelry. New materials are being used nowadays – like brass, bronze, copper, mother-of-pearl, crystal and so on, apart from precious and semi-precious stones. White jewellery is the present fashion trend, whether it is white gold, platinum or dull silver. Stones, in almost every colour, can be worn, co-ordinating them with your clothes. Pendants and earnings, studded with white and coloured stones are popular these days. All colours are being used. Light necklaces too are following this trend. Among stones, the Rajasthani kundan style can be used, or delicate minakari in the traditional colours. Traditional Rajasthani jewellery has a vibrant look and are also apt for festive occasions and specially with traditional attire. I feel traditional jewellery, especially in India, will never die out. Festivals are a good time to wear our traditional jewellery, like jhumkas. When you go shopping, keep a look out for unusual pieces of jewellery and relate them to the outfits you possess. Good accessorising does not always need a big bank balance. Costume jewellery can be safely worn, without detracting from style, provided you can select good pieces. You can choose jewellery made from metals like copper or bronze. You can get traditional or antique looking pieces. An old earring for instance, can be made into a brooch, pendant, or attached to a hair clip. It can even be pinned on to an evening purse. There are no limits when you use your imagination and creative ideas. For formal night wear, set off your outfit with one piece of heavy jewellery, like long earrings or an exotic choker. In fact, it is the accessories, which add more meaning and style to your entire look. A single, dramatic piece of jewellery should be worn by itself. Heavy long earrings may just need a bracelet or bangles. If you wear a heavy necklace with it, too much attention will be drawn to the jewellery and your clothes will be overshadowed. Instead, it should be a total impact. It is you who should be noticed and admired and not your jewellery. The occasion and time of day are very important. Long, dangling gold earrings can be totally out of place with morning wear, but may be glamorous at night, worn with a vibrant sari or salwar kurta. |
|
|
| HOME PAGE | |
Punjab | Haryana | Jammu & Kashmir |
Himachal Pradesh | Regional Briefs |
Nation | Opinions | | Business | Sports | World | Letters | Chandigarh | Ludhiana | Delhi | | Calendar | Weather | Archive | Subscribe | Suggestion | E-mail | |
Let festivity spill over to your home décor too in form of meenakari puja thalis, corner temple or wooden Ganesha idols
Never
mind, take an easy way out, blame it on the rain and move on! So, the crowd at
the Chandigarh Club didn't have to bump into each other, no claustrophobia to
deal with, a poolside for the ambience, Sunday for the day, youngest DJ of the
country, emcee to pep things up and Punjabi singer Dilbagh Singh to top it all. 
Whether it's a business meeting over lunch, dinner from a neighbourhood take away joint, a romantic dinner for two, a fun meal among friends or a fast-food meal with the kids, eating out is an intrinsic part of our lives. We eat out because it's easy, quick, and fun. And according to various surveys we are eating in restaurants more often than ever before.
During festivals like Diwali, traditional Indian attire seems just right. You can wear saris with rich borders. Or, why not try a plain crepe or chiffon sari with a brocade blouse. Or, wear blouses adorned with mirror work, sequins or crystal. Heavy gold work is not in vogue. If you want to wear gold trimming, try dull gold. You can go for beads, stones and crystal trimmings on clothes. Or perhaps, a churidar-kurta ensemble with a heavy sequinned dupatta. One-colour outfits allow you to experiment with accessories. The same outfit looks different with different accessories. For the night, wear warm and richer colours, like shades of red, magenta, orange, maroon, or dark pink. Purple can look really rich. During the day, you can go for lighter colours like yellow, light pink, lime green, pista green, mauve, light blue and so on. Needless to say, stay away from synthetic materials during Diwali.