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The Suhring brothers talk about their modern German pop-up in Mumbai

Twins Thomas and Mathias Sühring grew up in Berlin, which was then part of East Germany. Summer holidays were spent at their grandparents' farm, near the Polish border, harvesting vegetables and fruits, and feeding ducks, chicken, and pigs.

"We derived immense joy from going to the forests to pick berries and mushrooms, and fishing in the lakes nearby. As kids, it was nothing short of an adventure. We feasted on our grandmother's cooking. It was special to see how she got the family together at the table," says 40-year-old Mathias in an email interview from Bangkok, where the duo runs Sühring, which has placed 13th on the Asia's 50 Best Restaurants list this year.

They first arrived in Bangkok in January 2008 to helm the kitchen at Mezzaluna -- the city's highest restaurant, located on the 65th floor of Tower Club in Lebua. Next week, they will be at The Taj Mahal Mumbai for a pop-up that runs from September 13 to 17. But, before that, they share the story of what brought them to Mezzaluna and how it led them to launch their own brand.

Excerpts from the interview:

Did both of you want to become chefs?
Thomas: Our parents made us realise how much we loved the time we spent on the farm, harvesting and preparing food
with our grandparents. They suggested we explore the idea of becoming chefs since Germany was finally united by the time we turned 19, and we had the freedom to travel to wherever we wanted. We trained in different hotels in Berlin and earned a diploma after three years. We took a trip across the country in our car and visited all the three-Michelin-starred restaurants to apply for a position.

But no one was interested in hiring us.

Our journey towards becoming professional chefs began when a chef named Sven Elverfeld, from Aqua at The Ritz Carlton in Wolfsburg [Germany], called us.

What led you to launch Sühring?
Thomas: Five years ago, we realised that starting our own restaurant would allow us to fully express ourselves. We knew
Gaggan [Anand, celebrated Bangkok-based Indian chef] since 2008, when we were working at the same hotel in different capacities. He had always been encouraging us to open our own place.

We launched Sühring on February 22, 2016, which also marks the birthday of Gaggan, our partner and friend.

Sühring is 13th on the Asia's 50 Best list. What is the secret behind its success?
Mathias: We never expected Sühring to rank so high on the list within a year of its launch! The atmosphere of a restaurant
goes a long way in establishing a bond with the guests. We ensure that our guests feel comfortable, as if they are visiting an old friend. Hence, we live at the restaurant, to create a warm and relaxed atmosphere. What's better than great food in a homely set-up?

What, according to you, constitutes modern German food?
Thomas: For a long time, Germany wasn't considered to be a country of culinary excellence. The cuisine is often labelled as boring, heavy, fatty, and fixated on meat. But there is so much more to it than just salted pork legs, sausages, potatoes or sauerkraut. We incorporate modern cooking techniques into traditional methods to transport diners to another culinary generation. The result is perfect -- simple execution with robust flavours.

There is a notion that twins think along similar lines. Does this happen with the two of you in the kitchen?
Mathias: There have been instances when both of us have thought on a similar line without having talked about it. We ensure that we openly share ideas and thoughts that work in our favour.

What's your brotherly bond like?
Mathias: We have a respectful and professional equation at work. We discuss all new dishes together. Often, we have a similar view and when we don't, we let the dish take shape, and give it a fair chance. What's important is that we learn every day. Currently, Thomas takes care of cooking hot food items and I focus on preparing cold
ones, including pasties.

What's in store for Mumbai?
Thomas: We are presenting our signature dishes, like Frankfurter Grüne Soße, a sauce that originated in Frankfurt and is made with seven different herbs. We will also bring our two-and-a-half-year-old sourdough to Mumbai to bake authentic German breads, which will be part of the menu. Another dish, called Brotzeit, will have butter churned from lacto-fermented cream and flavoured with wild garlic leaves. Also on the menu is a traditional noodle dish, called Spätzle, from the Black Forest
region of Germany. This one will be served with mushrooms and fresh truffles.

Has Gaggan given you advice for this trip?
Mathias: He told us to enjoy his country and its incredible people.





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Twinkle Khanna, Saif Ali Khan, Bhumi Pednekar, Madhuri Dixit-Nene take up gardening; grow their own food!

Twinkle Khanna, Hema Malini, Bhumi Pednekar, Kim Sharma, Surbhi Jyoti and many other Bollywood celebrities took it upon themselves to grow their own vegetables. Many have taken to home gardening and decided to grow some veggies and other plants during the lockdown.

The coronavirus outbreak has put many lives and businesses on halt, but people have decided not to give up and find a different way to help each other. Twinkle Khanna grew green veggies in her garden, and sharing the picture, she wrote, "What you sow, you shall reap and I planted a love for gardening in the hearts of my children. This is my harvest-their help in digging, watering and this large bowl of Ceylon Palak. It grows like a weed and is easily propagated by planting the stem back after taking out the leaves. Thank you @merliynjoseph for helping me with this a few years ago. It is a gift that keeps giving in so many ways. #greenthumb [sic]"

 
 
 
View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Twinkle Khanna (@twinklerkhanna) onMar 26, 2020 at 12:13am PDT

Kareena Kapoor Khan, Saif Ali Khan and their tiny tot Taimur Ali Khan have been waiting for the tomatoes they planted to sprout. Kareena, who made her Instagram debut on March 1, 2020, shared, "My boys doing their bit! Together, let's make the world a better place for us all.
Play your part... #StayHome #StaySafe #JantaCurfew [sic]"

 
 
 
View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Kareena Kapoor Khan (@kareenakapoorkhan) onMar 22, 2020 at 12:34am PDT

Bhumi Pednekar too shared the new members of her family, "After months of tender love & care, we present to you #PednekarKePed #homegrown #GharKiKheti #sustainableliving [sic]"

 
 
 
View this post on Instagram

A post shared by BhumiâÂœ¨ (@bhumipednekar) onApr 25, 2020 at 2:56am PDT

Kim Sharma, who also enjoys gardening, wrote on Instagram, "Weekend chores #day4 [sic]"

 
 
 
View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Kim Sharma (@kimsharmaofficial) onMar 28, 2020 at 3:38am PDT

Madhuri Dixit-Nene also posted an Instagram story, which showed figs and pomegranates from her home garden. Isn't this truly inspiring? Take a look!

"Ye dekho... Mera naya kaam... preparing beds for methi, kothmir and planted tomatoes! abhi dekhte hain kya hota hai [sic]" wrote Juhi Chawla on her Instagram.

 
 
 
View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Juhi Chawla (@iamjuhichawla) onApr 11, 2020 at 10:56pm PDT

It's good to see public figures taking up the initiative to grow their own food and showing people how it's done! Home gardening can never get better, or more fun, than this!

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Irrfan Khan passes away; Amitabh Bachchan, Shoojit Sircar, Raveena Tandon express their sorrow

Irrfan Khan, who was undergoing treatment for Neuroendocrine tumour for the last two months, passed away at the age of 53 on April 29, 2020. The talented actor was admitted to Kokilaben Hospital for a colon infection, and on Wednesday he breathed his last. Bollywood celebrities shared condolences on social media, mourning the untimely death of the actor.

Producer Dinesh Vijan also wrote, "We are thankful for experiencing Irrfan’s resilience and spirit. We're thankful for being allowed to witness his love and passion for everything around him. So yes, all I can say is thank you to him for letting us be a part of his journey. There is no one like Irrfan and I’m going to miss him very much. Rest in peace my friend. I know that he could spread his wings and soar only because he had his wife Sutupa as his rock. My heartfelt condolences to her and his sons. We are always there for them and I know that they know this."

Here's a series of tweets by the celebrities.

Deepshikha Deshmukh who produced Irrfan Khan's Madaari shared," The industry has lost not just one of its finest actors but an incredible human being. Irrfan Sir was truly an intellectual and his love for cinema and storytelling was infectious. His sense of humour was unique and it was magical to watch him in front of the cameras. Rest in peace Irrfan Sir. We will miss you terribly."

Soha Ali Khan also shared an emotional post. Take a look.

It's not just Bollywood, but Irrfan Khan also took over the West with his talent and impeccable acting. In his almost three-decade career, the actor established himself as one of the most dependable performers in the Indian film industry as well as in Hollywood.

He made his big-screen debut with the Academy Award-nominated 1988 film Salaam Bombay and went on to give stellar performances in films such as Haasil, Maqbool, Paan Singh Tomar, The Lunchbox, Piku and Hindi Medium. His international projects include Slumdog Millionaire, The Namesake, The Amazing Spider-Man, Jurassic World and Life of Pi.

You'll be truly missed, Irrfan!

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Irrfan Khan laid to rest in Versova kabristan, family and friends pay their final respects

Versatile Bollywood actor Irrfan Khan passed away at the age of 53 on Wednesday, April 29, 2020 at 11:11 am due to colon infection. The actor was undergoing treatment for Neuroendocrine cancer and was admitted at Mumbai's Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital on Tuesday due to a colon infection. The actor was buried at the Versova kabristan in Mumbai at 3 pm on Wednesday in the presence of his family, close relatives and friends.


Irrfan Khan's mortal remains being taken to Versova Kabristan. Image credit: Yogen Shah

Irrfan's family including wife Sutapa Sikdar, son Babil Khan and relatives and his industry friends had rushed to the hospital to pay their final respects to the actor. 


Irrfan Khan's son Babil Khan and relatives. Pictures courtesy: Shadab Khan

On Tuesday, the Piku actor had been admitted to Mumbai's Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani hospital with a colon infection and was in the Intensive Care Unit. In 2018, Irrfan was diagnosed with neuroendocrine tumour and was undergoing treatment for the same.

Saheb Biwi Aur Gangster Returns director Tigmanshu Dhulia was spotted at the hospital as well.


Tigmanshu Dhulia at the hospital

Shoojit Sircar, with whom Irrfan had worked in the blockbuster hit Piku, also visited the hospital. Mourning his loss, the director had earlier tweeted, "My dear friend Irfaan. You fought and fought and fought. I will always be proud of you.. we shall meet again.. condolences to Sutapa and Babil.. you too fought, Sutapa you gave everything possible in this fight. Peace and Om shanti. Irfaan Khan salute (sic).


Shoojit Sircar at the hospital

An official statement regarding Irrfan's demise read, "'I trust, I have surrendered', these were the words that Irrfan expressed in a heartfelt note he wrote in 2018 opening up about his fight with cancer. And a man of few words and an actor of silent expressions with his deep eyes and his memorable actions on screen. It's saddening that this day, we have to bring forward the news of him passing away..."

The statement further read, "Irrfan was a strong soul, someone who fought till the very end and always inspired everyone who came close to him. After having been struck by lightning in 2018 with the news of a rare cancer, he took life soon after as it came and he fought the many battles that came with it. Surrounded by his love, his family for whom he most cared about, he left for heavenly abode, leaving behind truly a legacy of his own. We all pray and hope that he is at peace. And to resonate and part with his words he had said, 'As if I was tasting life for the first time, the magical side of it (sic).'"

Irrfan Khan, who made his debut with a small role in Mira Nair's Salaam Bombay in 1988 was known for his performances in Maqbool, The Namesake, A Mighty Heart, Paan Singh Tomar, Life of Pi, The Lunchbox, Haider, Gunday, Piku, Talvar, and Hindi Medium, amongst others. His last film Angrezi Medium released in March this year. 

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Riteish Deshmukh and Karan Johar flaunt their grey hair on social media

Riteish Deshmukh and Karan Johar have no inhibitions showing off their grey hair. KJo is unable to get his tresses coloured at a salon due to the lockdown. His kids, Roohi and Yash, call him 'buddha'. Deshmukh, too, sported his salt and pepper look on Insta and quipped, "Main celebrity hoon (sic)." Will the B-Town female brigade flaunt their grey locks?

 
 
 
View this post on Instagram

Ek Joke Saanga Na

A post shared by Riteish Deshmukh (@riteishd) onApr 27, 2020 at 5:36am PDT

On the professional front, Karan Johar will be next seen as a producer in Sooryavanshi and Brahmastra. Speaking of Riteish Deshmukh, the actor was last seen in Baaghi 3, along starring Tiger Shroff, Shraddha Kapoor and Ankita Lokhande.

Amidst the global outbreak of the Coronavirus, the entertainment industry has taken a hit. Several movies including the upcoming James Bond movie are being pushed back from their intended release dates and movies like Baaghi 3 saw a huge impact on their box office collections.

All the projects are currently on halt after the outbreak. People are waiting with bated breath for this lockdown to end and get back to business.

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See Photo: KGF star Yash, wife Radhika Pandit introduce their son with this adorable picture

K.G.F star Yash and wife Radhika Pandit welcomed their second child, a baby boy on October 30, 2019. However, the parents took a decision not to reveal the baby’s photo and the name. Now, after six months, the couple have finally introduced their son to the world by sharing an adorable photo of the munchkin.

Yash took to his Instagram account to share the picture of the toddler giving us much-needed smile in this gloomy days. Sharing the picture of his son, Yash wrote, "Say hello to my little buddy for life. Do give him all your love and blessings (sic)."

Take a look at the picture here:

Few days ago, Radhika Pandit had taken to his Instagram and shared a glimpse of her baby boy, in which their first child Arya was also seen. Sharing the picture, she wrote, "The moment all of u were waiting for. Yes tomorrow, Junior turns 6 months!! He will be ready to greet u all.. are u guys ready for him!! #nimmaRP #radhikapandit P.S : Thanks Amrita for this memorable shoot! @mommyshotsbyamrita (sic)."

On the work front, we will be seeing the actor in the second installment of K.G.F. which is all set to release on 23rd October 2020.

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Bipasha Basu and Karan Singh Grover celebrate their wedding anniversary virtually

Bipasha Basu and Karan Singh Grover celebrated their fourth wedding anniversary on Thursday with friends and family — virtually. Bips took to Instagram stories, where she shared a string of photographs and videos, talking to family and friends over video call.

She wrote, "Virtual celebration. First of its kind. Sometimes it's important to lift your spirits (sic)."

Bipasha Basu's Insta stories showed her and husband Karan Singh Grover chatting with close friend actor Ayaz Khan, and virtually feeding him what looks like cake! 

Looks like Ayaz Khan, too, played along!

Bips also shared a lovely video on her wedding anniversary and wrote, "Today is our 4th Wedding Anniversary. Time really flies... so make the best of each and every second... make beautiful memories and only hold onto the good things and feelings and let the rest go."

 
 
 
View this post on Instagram

There is no emotion that is bigger than love . No other emotion has the tremendous power of Love ❤️ I am blessed to be with someone everyday of my life ,who I love so deeply... each day together we look for small joys which fills us with so much gratitude for our life 🙏 Focussing on love , positivity, faith, belief ,magic and gratitude - that’s our motto❤️ Celebrate love each day ... count your blessings each day... thank life and live it fully each day❤️ Today is our 4th Wedding Anniversary🙏 Time really flies... so make the best of each and every second... make beautiful memories and only hold onto the good things and feelings and let the rest go. Thank you all ,for your wishes and love. Sending virtual hugs and big love to all❤️ Spread love 🙏 #Monkeyversary #monkeylove #stayhome

A post shared by bipashabasusinghgrover (@bipashabasu) onApr 29, 2020 at 6:20pm PDT

Karan Singh Grover and Bipasha Basu met on the sets of the erotic-thriller Alone in 2015 where they played the lead roles. The couple tied the knot on April 30, 2016, in Mumbai. 

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Couple Yoga! Kavita Kaushik, Sushmita Sen, Ashka Goradia, Pooja Batra work out with their partners

Yoga is considered as a good way not only to stay fit, but also become strong mentally. It has the power to provide mental peace, and can work wonders for the mind, body and soul. Considered as one of the best ways to unwind and achieve calmness, many have aced yogasanas with the utmost ease.

Speaking about the same, Kavita Kaushik, Sushmita Sen, Ashka Goradia, Pooja Batra and many celebs have been working out with their partners. Let's take a look at their version of how they unwind and relax.

Kavita Kaushik was seen performing some yoga poses with husband Ronit Biswas at their home during the lockdown. These stretches really look cool! What do you think?

 
 
 
View this post on Instagram

Strrrrrrrretch 🥰

A post shared by Kavita (@ikavitakaushik) onApr 12, 2020 at 2:45am PDT

Sushmita Sen and Rohman Shawl have also been sharing some couple yoga poses on social media, and leaving fans in awe of their chemistry. This also brings flexibility and balance, apart from giving extreme strength to the body and soul.

 
 
 
View this post on Instagram

All grown up & yet nothing beats the comfort of the fetus pose!! Nothing calms the mind faster than going back to the source!!👍😇❤ï¸ÂðŸÂÂÂ’ƒðŸ» besides, @rohmanshawl attempting this with me is #adorable ðŸÂÂÂ’‹ðŸ˜„😍we wish you calm & all the love in the world!! #yourturn 😉👊❤ï¸Â I love you guys!!! #duggadugga ðŸÂÂÂ’‹

A post shared by Sushmita Sen (@sushmitasen47) onApr 22, 2020 at 9:44am PDT

Ashka Goradia, on the other hand, has been surprising fans with her yoga poses. Be it alone or with husband Brent Goble, Ashka has left no stone unturned to keep it calm during this difficult period of lockdown. 

Pooja Batra loves sharing her workout videos and posts. Pooja, too, is homebound like everyone else during the lockdown, but the actress has her hubby Nawab Shah for company. During her quarantine time, Pooja Batra has been practising a wide range of yogasanas along with Nawwab. Let's take a look.

So, how many did you get right?

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Rishi Kapoor's Prayer Meet: Ranbir and Neetu Kapoor pay their respects

A prayer meeting was held on Sunday for actor Rishi Kapoor, who passed away earlier this week after battling leukemia. The prayer session was held at the late veteran actor's residence in Mumbai.

A picture is also doing the rounds on the internet in which Rishi Kapoor's wife Neetu Kapoor and son Ranbir Kapoor are seen sitting next to the former's photograph.

Have a look right here:

Ranbir is seen wearing a red tilak and saffron-coloured turban. Rishi Kapoor's daughter Riddhima, who could not be in Mumbai on time to attend her father's last rites, reached the city on Saturday night. She traveled all the way from Delhi to Mumbai via road with daughter Samara. Here are some pictures:


Riddhima Kapoor Spotted In Mumbai For Father Rishi Kapoor's Prayer Meet: Picture Courtesy: Yogen Shah


Samara Sahni Arriving In Mumbai: Picture Courtesy: Yogen Shah

Rishi Kapoor breathed his last on April 30 at the HN Reliance Foundation Hospital in Mumbai.

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Raveena Tandon: Our duty to give doctors, nurses their due respect

Even as they bravely fight the Coronavirus, Indian healthcare workers, over the past few weeks, have had to endure it all — from neighbours forcing them out of their buildings to being attacked by mobs. Appalled at the way a section of society is treating the Corona warriors, actor Raveena Tandon has kicked off a social media campaign, #JeetegaIndiaJeetengeHum, urging people to take a stand for them.

"In the current difficult situation, the medical forces have turned into real-life heroes. While all of us are safe at home under lockdown, it's so disheartening to see people attacking our doctors and nurses. At a time like this, it's our duty to give them their due respect. We ought to value them," states Tandon.

Several celebrities — including Shilpa Shetty Kundra, fashion designers Manish Malhotra and Masaba Gupta, music composer Shekhar Ravjiani, former cricketer Yuvraj Singh, and journalist Vir Sanghvi — have supported the campaign by sharing videos applauding the frontline workers. Through these daily videos, they try to debunk fake news, thereby combating the rise of violence against medical professionals.

Tandon hopes an increasing number of social media influencers will join the campaign and spread the good word. "Rumours about healthcare workers need to stop. They are sacrificing everything to ensure our present and future is safe. So, it's our responsibility to reach out to the masses and put an end to the cases of violence being reported across the country.

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Remember the Viva girls? They are back with their most popular song, Jaago Zara!

Nostalgia is the greatest gift that the lockdown has given us that happened due to the outbreak of the Coronavirus pandemic. After seeing countless photos of Bollywood and television celebrities from the bygone days, it's time for what is perhaps the greatest reunion in years. We are talking about the Viva band that got unfortunately disbanded a few years after its formation and success.

Anushka Manchanda, Neha Bhasin, Mahua Kamat, and Pratichee Mohapatra have sung one of their most popular songs called Jaago Zara at home during the lockdown. It's also appropriate that Anushka shared a long and emotional post on Instagram to mark their return. She wrote - "Its been so many years and so much has happened, and still today, people come up to me, to us all, to tell us what Viva meant to them." (sic)

Read it right here and don't miss it if you were and are a true fan:

 
 
 
View this post on Instagram

Jago Zara..my most favourite song of VIVA, an all girl band I was part of, my first step into the music industry. Coming from rock n roll, the two years I spent with this indipop band were sometimes confusing, sometimes exhilirating, and most times just downright crazy! I was a baby when I went to the auditions as a joke, a way to get out of staying home studying. I had absolutely no idea that this would be the start of an absolutely new life direction. Today I can't imagine a life without my work and passion for music, and for this I am ever grateful. The universe guides, and you flow âÂÂÂÂœ¨ Its been so many years and so much has happened, and still today, people come up to me, to us all, to tell us what Viva meant to them. This video is for you, for every time you have thought of us, sent us messages, sung our songs and reached out to us to tell us how you feel ♥ï¸Â Thank you for this everlasting love, this crazy bond you have built with us that has lasted so many years. We feel you, we give you love right back ♥ï¸Â . . For the people who have never heard this song before, Jago Zara is the sign of the times, and yet, it is timeless. For the downtrodden, the broken, the supressed, the marginalised, sidelined, the outnumbered For the ones that are asleep, unconscious, blinded, confused, hypnotised For the ones that need strength, love, power, support..... Jago Zara! Savera Ho Gaya! With the OG popstars @praticheemohapatra @mahuakc @nehabhasin4u .. nobody did it like you girls ♥ï¸Â Original song masterfully written by @jaduakhtar , composed and produced by @salimsulaimanmusic ..thank you for this gift..I will hold it close forever ♥ï¸Â Song rights : Star India New vocals recorded on multiple devices during lockdown in April 2020, mixed and mastered by @manchandashikhar at @thebeastindiacompany . Thanks @lydiabuthello for all your love and your support ♥ï¸Â . #jagozara #viva #popstars #starindia #thebeastindiacompany #anushkamanchanda #praticheemohapatra #mahuakamat #nehabhasin

A post shared by Anushka Manchanda / NUKA (@anushkadisco) onMay 2, 2020 at 2:45am PDT

Given the crisis that we all are going through, their song might be a ray of hope and sunshine. Bring it on, and we also hope they share more of their songs during the lockdown!

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Tahira Kashyap shares a throwback picture with Ayushmann Khurrana from their first year of dating

Ayushmann Khurrana and Tahira Kashyap's love story isn't less than a dream or a Bollywood film. And since the lockdown has completely stopped us from going out, Bollywood celebrities are ensuring they keep their fans entertained by sharing their unseen and throwback pictures.

Taking to her Instagram Account, Tahira Kashyap shared a rather romantic and rare picture with Khurrana when they were in their first year of dating and already strong believers of social distancing.

Have a look right here:

The post attracted a lot of comments and attention from the industry people. Dia Mirza commented with a heart and a laughing emoji. Aparshakti Khurana had six hearts in the form of his comment. Yami Gautam wrote- "Hahaha...this is so sweet." (sic) Ekta Kapoor wrote- "Wowwwwwwwwwwww" (sic), followed by a bunch of hearts. And Bhumi Pednekar also had her heart for the couple.

And of course, Tahira has been keeping all her fans and followers entertained and enlightened by sharing what she calls as The Lockdown Tales, something unique and refreshing to see amid this crisis. Coming to Khurrana, the actor has become a bonafide movie star and has eight consecutive hits in a row, and will be now seen in three films very soon, which include Gulabo Sitabo with Amitabh Bachchan, an untitled crime thriller directed by Anubhav Sinha, and a comedy with Alaya F directed by Anurag Kashyap's sister Anubhuti Kashyap.

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Big B, Abhishek Bachchan are super proud of their newly-graduated Navya Naveli!

Amitabh and Jaya Bachchan's daughter, Shweta Bachchan Nanda, must be extremely proud and happy today. Her daughter, Navya Naveli Nanda, recently graduated from Fordham University in New York, but owing to the coronavirus outbreak, the ceremony couldn't be held this year. 

But university ceremony or no, Navya Naveli didn't let it get her down! She enjoyed a graduation party right at home in Mumbai, surrounded by her family. Both Amitabh and Abhishek Bachchan, who are super proud of their little Navya, shared photos from the party.

Abhishek Bachchan shared a lovely snap of Navya's and wrote, "Congratulations my Navya on your graduation! Although due to the lockdown you were not able to celebrate it at your university with your classmates and the home garden had to suffice..."

Grandpa Amitabh Bachchan shared a few posts on Instagram congratulating his pretty granddaughter on her graduation day. Sharing a slo-mo video of Navya, he wrote, "Granddaughter Navya... the most important day in the life of a young student - Graduation Day..."

Big B also shared a sweet post where both his lovely ladies, Shweta and Navya, are featured. 

 
 
 
View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Amitabh Bachchan (@amitabhbachchan) onMay 6, 2020 at 8:10am PDT

And what graduation party would be complete without wishes from mum? Shweta, too, shared a pic of her baby girl and wrote, "I threw on a Fordham (her college) sweatshirt over my PJ's!! Congratulations baby I love you and am proud of you! Go forth and conquer x ( I'm not crying you're crying)."

Well, aren't these the cutest congratulatory messages? Big congratulations to Navya Naveli Nanda on her graduation!

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COVID-19: Devoleena Bhattacharjee adopts two families, will take care of their basic needs

A lot of Bollywood and Television celebrities came forward to contribute to the PM-CARES Fund and did their best to help people financially. Bigg Boss fame Devoleena Bhattacharjee has done something beyond. She not only contributed to the fund but has now adopted two families and will be looking after their needs and necessities amid the Coronavirus outbreak.

Taking to Twitter, one of the fan-clubs of the actor even thanked her for this wonderful gesture and move that should inspire everyone. And in case you also happen to be a fan of the actress, this tweet is for you:

Have a look right here:

To shed some more light, these two families are the families of the wage workers since these are the people that are affected the most during this lockdown. Their earnings have gone for a toss and so has their livelihood. And in case you forgot, she and her fans also helped a pregnant lady reach the hospital on time during this lockdown period. Way to go!

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Smriti Khanna, Gautam Gupta name their newborn Anayka

TV stars Smriti Khanna and Gautam Gupta have named their newborn daughter Anayka. On Tuesday, Smriti took to Instagram and shared the "first family picture", also revealing her baby's name. "Anayka...#family#FirstFamilyPic#DaddysGirl," she wrote on Instagram. Smriti and her husband Gautam welcomed their first child on April 15. The couple met on the sets of the TV show "Meri Aashiqui Tum Se Hi".

 
 
 
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Anayka ❤ï¸ÂðŸ§¿ #family #FirstFamilyPic #DaddysGirl

A post shared by Smriti Khanna (@smriti_khanna) onMay 5, 2020 at 5:26am PDT

A few days ago, Smriti posted her before and after childbirth pictures on social media, leaving everyone stunned with the loss of her pregnancy weight so quickly. "Amazed at what the human body can do!! 1st pic was taken one week before I gave birth. Second pic, a week after I gave birth. My inbox is flooded with questions from new moms and moms-to-be. I'll try and make a video soon answering all of them. Thank you for so much love and blessings for our little one #postpartum#postpartumtransformation#newmom #mombod," she had shared.

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Relationships: 5 ways women can boost their sex drive


Sleep in the buff: Sex experts say the sleeping nude can be tremendously beneficial for the female libido. So ladies, strip-off before you sleep next time.

Use sex toys: The key to healthy sexual appetite is foreplay. So, women can prolong sexual pleasure by using sex toys such as dildos or vibrators or furry handcuffs. The kinkiness factor is a must.

Sexting: Sending your partner sexually-explicit and outrageously dirty texts can steam-up things in the bedroom. So girls take note! Sext your guy to rock his world.

Watch erotic films: Movie night at home with your hubby or boyfriend? Then watch erotic-themed or sexually suggestive films like The Last Seduction, Betty Blue, Secretary, Sex and Lucia and others. Guaranteed to get things cracking under the sheets.

Tuck in early; no gadgets in bed: Turning off your laptops, television or simply avoiding smartphone-use in bed is a great way to boost intimacy between the sheets.





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How to navigate the world of dating profiles? Experts share their wisdom


Illustration/Uday Mohite

I am looking for a sapiosexual guy." That's the line, which ran below the photograph of a gorgeous woman, on writer Jaidev Hemmady's Tinder page. Chancing upon it a few months ago, Hemmady had two options - either swipe left or right. He chose the latter. Why? "I had never heard the word before. It immediately aroused my curiosity," the 35-year-old recalls. Thinking of it now, Hemmady tells us it was probably his most foolish decision ever. "When we did begin to converse, I asked her what she meant by sapiosexual," he says. She said it was "fascination for intellectual men". "So, would she choose an average-looking man with the IQ of a rocket scientist?" To his surprise, the girl typed in a 'NO'. "He has to be both, handsome and smart," she insisted.

One possible reason for this artifice in vocabulary could be the nature of online dating. Here, as everywhere else, first impressions matter. Only last week, IllicitEncounters.com, UK's leading dating website for married people, released a survey after analysing four lakh profiles, where it threw a few words of caution when describing oneself on dating apps. While words like 'confident' and 'honest' earned a good score, 'shy' and 'happy' were major put-offs. With technical details playing a key role, relationship coaches are now being roped in to add finesse to people's dating profiles. When we enquired, most coaches claimed that 50 per cent of their clients were currently investing in online image building. The rules may differ for each, but if you want to be a smooth player in the swipe game, here's what you could do.


Ritesh Uttamchandani

Treat profile pic with kindness
Some time ago, freelance photographer Ritesh Uttamchandani was asked if he was interested in clicking profile shots for dating apps. "Some of the photos you see on these apps are horrendous, boring and repetitive," he rues. Uttamchandani, who joined a few dating apps out of sheer curiosity, says that because of the nature of his job, it wasn't hard for him to see through the sham behind the lens. According to him, there are four kinds of set images common to most profiles - the side profile, the exotic destination shot, the selfie and one that flashes a facial asset. Of the four, he advises avoiding the selfies. "Pout selfies are the worst."

If Uttamchandani is thinking aesthetics, London-based Dr Siva, who is a physician and relationship expert and runs drsivacoaching.com, says that the profile picture also reflects how serious you are about the dating game. "Larger women should not be ashamed of their body type. Men like women who are comfortable in their own skin," claims Dr Siva.

Mumbai-based Shiva, the head coach of Real Man Academy, which runs dating and seduction workshops, advises following the ABS rule. A implies having pictures that show you lead an 'active' lifestyle. B means portraying a 'bold' body language. (Example: no crossed legs). S is showing off your 'social' circle. "If there are women in your photograph, it's good, because it shows they are comfortable with you."


Nidhi Sharma

Be quirky with your bio
"Be original when describing oneself," says Nidhi Sharma (47), personal branding coach at Bon Impressions in Mumbai. "Never put up an inspirational quote in your bio. It would be stupid to believe that someone is going to date the person who scripted that quote," she says. Instead, she suggests writing something that reflects your attitude towards life. Elizabeth Sullivan, a dating coach, who runs Lovementor.com in London, advises using positive language to describe oneself. "Add some humour.

But, don't force it because people can see through it." Hemmady says, "I prefer women who don't shy away from talking about their food adventures."


Dr Siva

After you've been swiped right
According to Nidhi, a lot of men come across as being very forceful and persistent, once they've got a right-swipe from someone they have taken a liking to. "Begin with a 'hello, how are you?' even if that means sounding a tad bit formal. Let the rapport develop before getting personal," she suggests.

Also, when your 'prospective date' messages, do not respond immediately, says Shiva. "It shows you have lots of free time. At a subtle level it communicates that she/he is the only person who is texting you."

Being online all the time can also be a turn-off. "That shows you don't have much going on in your life. Especially on weekends, be completely offline. As the saying goes, fake it till you make it," Shiva says. Online dating is just a tiny window to your world. "It's a practising tool, until that door really opens," Sullivan says.





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BTS to release their Japanese album 'Map Of The Soul: 7 - The Journey' on July 15 with four new tracks

More BTS music is coming our way! The South Korean septet released the highly awaited 'Map Of The Soul: 7' album back on February 21, 2020. They are releasing their fourth Japanese album 'Map Of The Soul: 7 - The Journey' on July 15, 2020.

As per new details released on Thursday, May 7, the Japanese album will have Japanese versions of some of their previous album songs including four new tracks - 'Intro: Calling', 'Stay Gold', 'Your Eyes Tell', and 'Outro: Journey'.

Tracklist:

1. INTRO: Calling
2. Stay Gold
3. Boy With Luv -Japanese ver.-
4. Make It Right -Japanese ver.-
5. Dionysus -Japanese ver.-
6. IDOL -Japanese ver.-
7. Airplane pt.2 -Japanese ver.-
8. FAKE LOVE -Japanese ver.-
9. Black Swan -Japanese ver.-
10. ON -Japanese ver.-
11. Lights
12. Your eyes tell
13. OUTRO: The Journey

This will include the 'Stay Gold' music video. The track will also serve as Original Sound Track for Japanese drama, Spiral Labyrinth – DNA Forensic Investigation (literal translation). Tanaka Kei will headline the drama which is based on a manga of the same name. Jungkook has participated in the composition of 'Your Eyes Tell'.

'Stay Gold' will be the first Japanese release since last year's 'Lights/Boy With Luv'.

ALSO READ: Troye Sivan reveals interesting details about co-writing 'Louder Than Bombs' for BTS' 'Map Of The Soul: 7




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Coronavirus outbreak: Migrant couple stranded in Tripura names their newborn 'Lockdown'

A migrant couple from Rajasthan's Alwar, who got stranded in Tripura, have named their newborn boy 'Lockdown'. The couple Sanjay Bauri and his wife Manju Bauri sell plastic wares and keep travelling to various states to earn money. They visit Tripura for six months every year to sell cheap plastic wares. The government officials suggested to name him 'lockdown' as he was born on April 13 during the lockdown.

"The baby is fine. We are getting food from the administration. He is fine. As he was born during the lockdown, we have decided to name him lockdown," the father of the newborn told ANI. "The government is helping us a lot and taking care of our child. They also ensured the safe delivery of my son. But we would be happier if we return to back to Rajasthan as soon as possible," Manju said.

Besides them, 13 other migrant families are living there in Badharghat.

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Coronavirus outbreak: 100 people on way to their native places detained in Nashik

Police on Thursday took in custody around 100 people who entered the city while travelling from Mumbai on way to their native places, including in North India, during the coronavirus-enforced lockdown, said officials. These people, numbering around 100 and including women and children, were coming from Mumbai, around 200km from here, on foot during the lockdown and entered Nashik city in the evening, they said.

Police swung into action when they were spotted on a flyover on the Mumbai-Agra Highway, which passes through the city, the officials said. When questioned, some of them told the police they were going to their hometowns in North India, they said. Some of them were natives of other districts of Maharashtra, the officials said. They were travelling in violation of government orders related to implementation of the coronavirus-enforced lockdown and hence were taken into custody, they said.

The police later sent them to a Nashik Municipal Corporation (NMC)-run shelter home in Anandvalli. Till now, more than 800 people, who were passing through Nashik during the lockdown, have been taken into custody and kept in various shelter homes in the city, they said. One of them was later found to be coronavirus positive and is receiving treatment in hospital, they added.

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Global gaming brand Fnatic signs Luv Sharma aka GodNixon as their content creator

YouTubers in the PUBG Mobile scene in India. Godnixon mostaly famous for his tips & tricks videos where he shows various unique ways in which you can make the best possible use of the area/buildings be it bridges, squad houses, triple storey builds, warehouses and so on. With over 845K subscribers on YouTube and around 60+ million views on his YouTube channel, he is one of the mainstream content creators out there for PUBG Mobile.

Amazed by the quality of content available on his channel, Fnatic India has decided to take GodNixon overboard as their content creator. Is this a move to help the Fnatic PUBG squad perform better than their performance right now with some help from one of the best content creators out there? Or is it just that they want to take a step forward in a positive direction so as to create more opportunities for budding content creators out there?

GodNixon is one of the figureheads of the Indian PUBG Mobile community and was chosen as the country representative for India during PMCO in 2019. In the announcement video, he revealed that at the moment he is stuck in a hotel in Bangalore as the entire country is under lock down and he can’t get back home. As a result, he hasn’t been able to release content as regularly as he would like to. However, he did mention that we can expect a variety of content from both him and Fnatic in the near future.

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Otters put up a brave fight to protect their baby from feral dogs in viral video

In an extra-ordinary sight from Madhya Pradesh, an otter was seen putting up a brave front and protecting her baby from a pack of feral dogs. The sight was captured at the Gandhi Sagar Sanctuary that has been making rounds in the social media for quite some time now.

The viral video was shared by forest officer Ravindra Mani Tripathi on Twitter called the scene a ‘great fight’ and ‘rare viewing for humans and explained that it shows a ‘great interaction’ between dogs and otters.

The four dogs in the video are seen standing in the bank of the river and trying to attack a small otter in the water. Soon, two other otters came to the baby’s rescue and put up a fight with the canines.

In another video, that appears to be of the same incident sharing by forest officer Susanta Nanda on Twitter, the elder otter is seen taking the baby to a safe point and joining another otter into running out of the water and scare the dogs. The caption of the video reads, “Otters defending fiercely their baby from feral dogs.”

The two videos have collectively garnered more than 11,000 views on Twitter with over 300 likes and was retweeted by more than a hundred of users. The users commented on the video saying that they have never seen a sight such as this one.

What do you think about the video?

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Lockdown 3.0: Twitterati express their emotions as government extended lockdown till May 17

Amid the rising number of coronavirus cases in India, the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) on May 1, issued an order under the Disaster Management Act, 2005 thereby further extending the nationwide lockdown for two weeks. The two week extension will come to an end on May 17.

With the lockdown extended for two more weeks, several people took to social networking sites to share their emotions as India reels under lockdown till May 17. While some took resort to memes others tried their best to tickle the funny bone using the #Lockdown3 amid the COVID-19 crisis across the country.

Here's how netizens reacted to Lockdown 3.0:

Twitter user Supriya Bhardwaj said that this is how she would enter Lockdown 3.0 phase.

When Twitter user The Silly Panda asked god to not extend the lockdown anymore.

When it turns out that Lockdown 3.0 scheme with relaxations is not for people living in containment zones.

When Twitter user Gumrah expressed that he used to living like this in lockdown.

Twitter user Sneha shared this funny pictures saying that she is thinking how to spend the next 14 days.

Here's how extroverts reacted when they learnt about lockdown being extended for two weeks.

Parents seem to be the most happy about the lockdown being extended.

When lockdown extension news gives newly married couple something to cheer about.

Did any of these memes describe your Lockdown 3.0 feeling?

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Maharashtra govt appeals to Central govt depts to make available their hospitals for COVID-19 patients

The Maharashtra government has appealed to all central government departments to make available their hospitals for the treatment of COVID-19 patients in the state. "Anticipating higher numbers of patients in the coming days, Maharashtra govt has appealed to all Central govt departments like Railways, Port Trust, Army, Navy etc to make available their hospitals for treatment of COVID patients in Maharashtra," said a statement from Maharashtra Chief Minister's Office (CMO).

According to the Maharashtra CMO, "Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray is himself in talks at the highest level in central govt." A CMO press note confirmed that the Maharashtra government has set up several quarantine and isolation centers at Mahalaxmi Racecourse, Nehru Planetarium, Bombay Exhibition center, Richardson and Cruddas company and at various other places in the state.

But as the Center has warmed about a spike in cases during May, Maharashtra wants additional ICU beds and other medical facilities. So it has requested the central government departments which have hospitals in Maharashtra to make them available for the treatment of COVID-19 patients.

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Chris Pratt and Katherine Schwarzenegger expecting their first child soon

Actor Chris Pratt and his wife Katherine Schwarzenegger Pratt are expecting their first baby together. The two had exchanged vows on June 8 last year and now they are gearing up for the next chapter in their lives, sources told people.com.

The baby on the way will be Katherine's first child while Pratt already has a son Jack, whom the actor shares with ex-wife Anna Faris.

This comes after Katherine, who is currently on a virtual book tour for her bestseller, The Gift Of Forgiveness, was spotted out walking her dog with her mother, Maria Shriver on Friday, sporting what looked to be a baby bump, reports dailymail.co.uk.

For the day outing, she chose a baggy, beige striped low-cut jumper, which looked to be a piece of maternity clothing.

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Gigi Hadid, Zayn Malik are expecting their first child

Fashion model Gigi Hadid and her boyfriend Zayn Malik are expecting their first child together. The news of the 'Victoria's Secret' model's pregnancy was reported by TMZ.

"Gigi is 20 weeks along, and both their families are happy" the publication quoted the family sources for the couple as saying. The model who rang in her 25th birthday on April 23, took to social media to share multiple pictures from the celebration.

As reported by E! News, the couple who started dating in 2015, officially called it quits in 2018.

However, Gigi and former 'One Direction' member came back together just before the December break and the singer reached out to Gigi last month and she seemed to be giving him another chance.

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Govind Pansare killers now have Rs 50 lakh bounty on their heads

The monetary reward for the person providing solid leads about the two wanted suspects in Comrade Govind Pansare's murder case has been increased by a whopping Rs 40 lakh by the state home department.

The Communist Party of India (CPI) leader was killed in February 2015, with one team each in every district of Maharashtra probing the case. Police teams on Saturday began pasting posters declaring the hike in reward money at all major public places.

Also Read: Govind Pansare case: Main accused Virendra Tawde gets bail

The initial prize amount declared by the Special Investigation Team (SIT) for the informant was R5 lakh which was increased to R10 lakh in February 2016 and has now been revised to Rs 50 lakh, according to the SIT's orders dated Saturday.

Comrade Pansare and his wife Uma were returning from their morning walk in Sagar Mahal, Kolhapur, when two bike-borne persons fired five rounds at Pansare on February 16, 2015.

Also Read: Activist Govind Pansare killing: Bombay HC continues stay on trial against 2 accused


Police teams have begun pasting the announcement posters at public places across the state

The communist was airlifted and rushed to Mumbai for treatment where he died four days later, on February 20. While suspects Sameer Gaikwad, Amol Kale and Mumbai-based ENT specialist Dr Virendrasinh Tawade have been arrested by the police, Vinay Baburao Pawar and Sarang Deelip Akolkar alias Kulkarni are absconding.

After the SIT, investigating the Pansare murder case, issued the orders for increasing the informant's prize amount last month, the Maharashtra police prepared posters declaring this in English, Hindi and Marathi. The whereabouts of the informant will be kept secret, the SIT has assured.

A senior officer who is part of the investigating team said, “The reward is Rs 25 lakh each for information about Pawar and Akolkar. We had received some clues in the past too but those did not lead to anything while probe on those lines is still on too.”

Pansare's daughter-in-law Megha, however, wasn't too impressed with the hike in prize money. “It is too late now but there is some hope. The Bombay High Court too was amused and sceptical of a cash prize leading to clues,” she said. “Do you think people will take you to the accused. For all you know, they might be getting paid more to keep quiet,” the court had remarked at the last case hearing.

Wanted in Dabholkar case too

Pawar and Akolkar, who are associated with the Sanatan Sanstha, are also wanted in connection with the murder of rationalist Dr Dabholkar. Akolkar, who hails from Pune, is an electronic engineer and has been on the run since his name cropped up during the Goa blast case being probed by the National Investigation Agency.

The NIA had even secured an Interpol Red Corner Notice against him in 2012. Pawar, a resident of Miraj in Sangli district of western Maharashtra, was last located in Umbaraj in Karad taluka of Satara district. He has been untraceable ever since.

Also Read: HC: Narendra Dabholkar, Govind Pansare killings are linked

February 16, 2015

Day Pansare was shot dead in Kolhapur

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Bepannaah’s Harshad Chopda and Shehzad Shaikh are in awe of their reel life father Rajesh Khattar’s son Vanraj

Bepannaah is one of the few Indian television serials that have left a mark on its audience. It has been a year and a half since the show went off-air and it still seems to be making rounds in the news. Starring Harshad Chopda, Jennifer Winget, Sehban Azim, Namita Dubey, Rajesh Khattar, Shehzad Shaikh, Anchal Goswami, Parineeta Borthakur and more, this show will always have a special place in its audience’s hearts. The star cast still shares a special bond with each other and make sure to get together whenever possible.

Rajesh Khattar, who played Harshwardhan Hooda on the show, has recently had a baby boy named Vanraj. Taking to his Instagram, Rajesh has revealed the first picture of baby Vanraj Khattar and the internet couldn’t stop gushing over the little cutie! He also shared pictures of Harshad Chopda and Shehzad Shaikh meeting Vanraj for the first time. The caption reads, “#throwback Reel one’s awed by Real One ♥️♥️ @harshad_chopda @shehzadss #vanrajkhattar”

Take a look at the pictures and they are going to leave you in awe of this trio, too!

 

View this post on Instagram

 

#throwback Reel one’s awed by Real One ♥️♥️ @harshad_chopda @shehzadss #vanrajkhattar

A post shared by Rajesh Khattar (@rajesh_khattar) on

Also Read: HOT ALERT! Harshad Chopda’s SHIRTLESS picture will drive your midweek blues away!




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Justin Bieber and Ariana Grande release their first collaboration 'Stuck With U' for Covid-19 relief

A huge collaboration has dropped. Singers Justin Bieber and Ariana Grande have teamed up for their first-ever collaboration 'Stuck With U' which is for Covid-19 relief. After years of wait, the two singers have come together for a very special cause.

The lyrics goes, "So, lock the door and throw out the key / Can't fight this no more, It's just you and me / And there's nothin' I, nothin' I, I can do / I'm stuck with you, stuck with you, stuck with you."

“Grateful to announce that my friend and i have partnered with @1strcf and @sb_projects on this release. proceeds from the streams and sales of #stuckwithu will be donated to first responders children’s foundation to fund grants and scholarships for children of healthcare workers, emergency medical technicians (EMTs), paramedics, police officers and firefighters serving at the front lines during the global pandemic,” Ariana said on her Instagram.

Justin Bieber said in a statement to Just Jared, “More than ever we are seeing the selfless, tireless and amazing work that doctors, nurses, and healthcare providers give to the world every day. It is our hope we can lend our voices to raise awareness and give much-needed support for them and their families. It’s my honor to come together with my friend Ariana and our SB Projects family to try and do some good.”

 

View this post on Instagram

 

2 babies all grown up finally collaborate! Excited for tonight @arianagrande

A post shared by Justin Bieber (@justinbieber) on

Check it out:

ALSO READ: When BTS member Jungkook attended Ariana Grande’s concert during Sweetener tour, watch videos




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Two Mumbai musicians talk about their craft while enjoying Asian feast

Arijit Datta hobbles into The Fatty Bao with a twisted ankle. Sidd Coutto bustles in 10 minutes later. The former's a music composer who's moved away from bands like Agni and Airport towards film and advertising, while the latter is probably the busiest musician in the city's indie circles. They first dive into starters — Crystal Dumpling, Spicy Mushroom Sushi Roll, Dancing Prawns and California Rolls — and then into conversation about their craft.

Sen: How do you switch seamlessly from making indie music to more commercial projects?
Datta: It's not a switch really. I think that for me and for Sidd also, wherever there is a mode of expression, we just go there and do our thing.
Coutto: Yeah, true. For commercial concerts, you just go up there and rock 'n' roll, dude. It's just a two-hour gig, where you're hanging with your buddies on stage and partying away.
Datta: It would be different when it comes to writing songs, which we both do, because if you have to mould yourself according to the audience, that's what you might call a switch.


Sidd Coutto (left) and Arijit Datta share a laugh at The Fatty Bao in Bandra. Pics/Pradeep Dhivar

Sen (to Datta): So when you were composing for the movie Filmistaan, did you have to keep the audience in mind?
Coutto (answering for both): See, performing is one thing and composing is another. When you're writing for films, you have to be clear that it's the director's baby. You are facilitating his vision. Yes, it's your baby at one level, but you're not both the mummy and the daddy.
Datta: The good part about Filmistaan was that the director let me interpret the film my own way. So I never had to break away from my own self, because the music came naturally to me. Plus, the movie had no market pressure as such, so I didn't really have a brief.
Coutto: ...Which by the way isn't the norm, so [singing to the tune of a Daft Punk Song] you got lucky.
Datta: Yeah, and for me, I think very cinematically. Even with my band's songs, if I just change the arrangements a bit, they can be in a film.
Coutto: Also, when most people come to you for work now, they come for what you make. It's not like the old days when it was like, 'Aisa banaa aur waisa banaa.' So you don't have to switch so much, since they want you for you.
Datta: I think there are newer minds. There are newer storytellers with a different language altogether, who go in search of newer sounds, voices and composers.

Sen: So it's not the era of Jatin-Lalit and Anand-Milind anymore?
Datta: No. But they also had their own sound. At that time, Jatin-Lalit were the kings, ya. Of course, they didn't move with the times.
Coutto: Or, the times moved away from them. But they did try. Infact, [Anand-Milind's] Qayamat Se Qayamat Tak is my favourite Hindi film album of all time.

Datta: Yeah, it's my favourite too. It was a complete album. Even the least-remembered song [sings a bar from Kaahe Sataye], even that I remember! So yeah, they did their time; they brought in their sound and gave us memorable tunes. But then our tastes started changing. MTV, Channel V and VH1 came in, and the world suddenly became bigger.

The mains, Asparagus Bacon Fried Rice and Exotic Mushroom Ramen, arrive. This is followed by moments of silence interspersed with appreciative sounds such as 'mmmm'.
Sen: What are some of your favourite places to eat at in Mumbai?
Coutto: Over the past couple of years, I've discovered that Social actually has awesome food. They have a vast variety of things, with small dishes included. Did you know that they have something on the menu called Staff Khaana? It's exactly what their staff eats and it's great, dude. But I don't end up ordering it as much because there are so many more things I like. But they have removed bheja from the menu, and I love bheja.
Datta: I can never have bheja, man.
Sen: So if you go to Bangkok you're never going to try cockroaches and locusts?
Datta: Never. I can't go in that direction. I know that people are adventurous with their food and everything. But I can't do that.
Coutto: For me, when it comes to food, I let my nose guide the way. Otherwise, I have no restrictions.
Datta: I love going to this place called National. It's a dhaba that a Sardar owns and it's been running since 1952, near Bandra Talao. It serves pure food, you know, the sort with less oil — makki roti with butter on top, rajma, bhindi — and you can even have their water and nothing will happen to you.
Coutto [Putting his fork down and rubbing his tummy]: Yeah, I'll go there with you sometime. But right now, I think I'll go home and play some slow blues songs.


Quick takes




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Mumbai chefs on why it's perfect time to pick their own spices and condiments

Timut
At: The Clearing House, Ballard Estate


Pastry chef Husna Jumani sources timut from the Northeast. Pic/Bipin Kokate

It's not often that you come across a dessert with pepper. It's for this reason that Husna Jumani, head pastry chef at The Clearing House, decided to experiment with the timut, the popular Nepalese pepper, in their Greek yoghurt pannacota. "I had already tried using other varieties of pepper, so I thought timut would be a great addition because the flavour is pronounced. It is spicy, with hints of grapefruit," says Jumani, who sources it from the Northeast.

However, it's an ingredient that can work either way, she warns. "If used with the right combinations, it can elevate the dish like no other. Else, it will overpower the other ingredients." Apart from being a tricky ingredient, it's also an acquired flavour. "When people eat it, they might not recognise it or might not realise it's a spice. It has a spicy yet fruity undertone."

Green peppercorn and krachai
At: Izaya, Nariman Point

When restaurateur Farrokh Khambata launched Izaya last November, it wasn't just a new fine-dining address he was looking to introduce. What he also wanted to do was offer the diner an innovative range of spices. "It gets boring to cook with basil and bird eye chilies, when you are talking Thai food. I wanted to give things an overhaul," he says. He sought recourse in the aromatic, fresh green peppercorn, plucked from the Piper Nigrum vine, and the krachai or Chinese ginger, both found in Southeast Asia.


The green peppercorn is added at the end

At the restaurant, krachai finds its way into a sauce that accompanies the Australian barramundi or sea bass fillet, and the green peppercorn makes an appearance in the yakitori style-grilled chicken. Both are crushed on stone and added to the dish at the end.


Thai ginger. Pic/Bipin Kokate

"Certain spices like kadi patta require oil to bring out their essence, but not these," Khambatta adds. What gives these flavouring agents an edge is their freshness. "When it's in season, we use it fresh, which means that they have a short shelf life. But our dishes won't be the same without them."

Ajamoda
At: Olive Bar and Kitchen, Bandra


The lifecycle of the ajmoda plantsown at the restaurant. Pics/Ashish Raje

A couple of months ago, one of the chefs at Olive Bar and Kitchen, stumbled upon ajamoda or wild celery seeds on a trip to Kolkata. Curious, he decided to plant it and see what comes of it.

"It's only been four weeks since we decided to use it as a brine for the tuna jerky, because of its intense flavour," says head chef Rishim Sachdeva. A well-known Ayurvedic medicinal herb, the ajamoda belongs to the ajwain family and is native to West Bengal. The restaurant sources it from Vrindavan Farms in Palghar.

"We braise it and add it when the brine goes from warm to cold," he says. Interestingly, the guests have taken note. "Those who have tasted the dish have made it a point to tell us that there's something unique about the taste."

Pasilla Oaxaca
At: Xico, Kamala Mills


Chef Jason Hudanish with a range of spices at Xico. Pic/Bipin Kokate

Chef Jason Hudanish wanted to introduce the pasilla Oaxaca at Lower Parel's Xico for more reasons than one. "It's a dark red chill — smokey and fruity with a heat level that is sharp but not overwhelming. Also, it can be used in just about anything — soup, stew, rice or salad," he says. What works against it though, is that it's fairly expensive and not readily available unlike the more common pasilla pepper, a dried chili used in traditional Mexican mole sauces.

The pasilla Oaxaca is produced only in the hilly Oaxaca region of southern Mexico. Here, it is used to make the hearty tortilla soup and borracho salsa, their table side sauce. Apart from pasilla Oaxaca, you'll also find that the achiote, a red paste made from grinding Annatto seeds with oregano, cumin, cloves, allspice berries, black pepper and salt. "It's powerful and pungent. We use it in the slow roasted pork, but warn people before serving it," he says.

Peela Masala
At: All Elements, Khar


The peela masala has been concocted using 12 different spices. Pic/Bipin Kokate

All Elements might be a young, two-month old café, but the cooking techniques it employs are age old. In fact, the peela masala used to spice up the seafood and vegetarian appetisers, is a legacy dating back three generations.

"My grandmother, Harbans Bedi, created this spice mix using 12 ingredients that she would source from local shops in Mazgaon. For me, she's the real mistress of spices," laughs proprietor Gudiya Chadha. The ingredients include star anise, coriander seeds and clove, among others. Understandably, the flavour is strong and hits you the moment you open the lid of the container. "A pinch is all you need. Else, it will overpower the dish."


Gudiya Chadha

Sassafras powder
At: Toast and Tonic, BKC


Pic/Ashish Raje

At Toast and Tonic, most marinades and mixes are prepared in house, using indigenous ingredients. The sassafras powder, therefore, is an exception. Also called a Gumbo filé powder, it comes from a sturdy tree in Louisiana.

At the restaurant, you'll find the powder stored in glass jars. "It is popular for creole and cajun cooking. We use it for both, flavour and texture in traditional gumbo, because it not only thickens the broth, but also lends it an earthy flavour," says sous chef Chirag Makwana. Filé powder is generally added at the end of cooking, or stirred into hot gumbo right before serving. They also sprinkle a pinch on their prawn flatbread for flavour.

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T20 World Series | COVID-19: 18-player team have not received their share of Rs 3 lakh each

When Vikrant Keni, who led the Indian team to its maiden Physical Disability T20 World Series in England last year, and teammate Gurudas Raut were invited by BCCI president Sourav Ganguly & Co to the Cricket Centre on March 4 to receive the token cheque of R65 lakh as prize money for their flawless performance, their achhe din may have begun to look like coming true.

A few weeks later, India went into lockdown to fight against the dreadful Coronavirus and the 18-player team have not received their share of R3 lakh each. The Indian cricket board has yet to release the payment but say the players will receive their dues soon.

The Supreme Court-appointed Committee of Administrators (CoA) had approved the prize money for the Indian physically challenged team before their term ended last October. With most of the players from the T20 World Series-winning squad living a hand-to-mouth existence, they feel the BCCI prize money would make a huge difference to them especially in these COVID-19 pandemic-caused testing times.

All-rounder Ramesh Naidu, 24, whose father M Ramu earns R15,000 from driving cars at Vijaya Medical Centre in Visakhapatnam, is finding it difficult to cope with the lockdown. "My family is completely dependent on my father's income. It's difficult to manage during this period," said Naidu, who is in his last year of M Tech (Master of Technology) in Electrical Engineering at IIT Chennai. Naidu had taken an education loan of Rs 4.5 lakh.

Wasim Khan, who hails from the turbulent Kashmir region, was banking on the prize money to cope with the lockdown.

"With no job, it's quite tough to exist. My elder brother is a lawyer but he is without any work at the moment. We have some groceries at home but I don't know how long they will last. We have got no help from anyone. It will be a big relief if BCCI releases our prize money soon," said Wasim, who had scored a match-winning 40-ball 79 in the semi-final against Pakistan.

Hard-hitting batsman Sudanese Mahendaran, 29, who changed the complexion of the game in the final against England with his 11-ball 33, said the lockdown has rendered his family income-less. "There has been no income for the last month as my father has not been able to ride his auto rickshaw due to the lockdown. My close friends are helping us out," said the Tamil Nadu lad.

Bengal-based wicketkeeper batsman Debabrata Roy, 31, is confident BCCI president Ganguly will rescue the players. "I was earning R8,000 till last month as a salesman at a cloth store. I am sure Dada [Ganguly] will look into our problems," said Roy.

Left-arm spinner Anish Rajan, who was India's highest wicket-taker (11) in the tournament, has had his share of suffering in the lockdown.


Skipper Vikrant Keni (right) and teammate Gurudas Raut with the R65 lakh cheque they received from the BCCI in March. Pic/ Suresh Karkera

A mechanical engineer by profession, Rajan quit his job in 2015 to pursue a career in cricket.

"My dream was to play for India. I play as a professional for Tripunithura Cricket Club in Kochi and I also officiate in matches as umpire or scorer. However, due to the lockdown, there has been no source of income," he said.

Skipper Keni, who is lucky to have a steady source of income, sympathised with the financial condition of some of his teammates. "Most of the players from my team are struggling as they have no jobs. I think the BCCI prize money is taking time due to the lockdown," said Palghar-based Keni.

BCCI's General Manager Cricket Operations, Syed Saba Karim told mid-day on Friday that the prize money will be remitted in a couple of days. "It has been approved and in a day or two, it will be processed. The amount will be deposited in their [players'] bank account. It has been cleared from our side," Karim said.

I will talk to BCCI: AICAPC prez Ghavri


AICAPC prez Karsan Ghavri

The president of the All India Cricket Association for Physically Challenged (AICAPC), Karsan Ghavri said he would talk to the BCCI officials to release the prize money of the Physical Disability T20 World Series-winning team once the lockdown ends. "It [the prize money] was supposed to go into the players' account, but it has not happened. This is not the right time to talk. Let everything settle down. We will definitely speak to the authorities," the former India all-rounder told mid-day.
Ghavri is also hopeful of sorting out the employment problems of the physically challenged cricketers. "We are definitely trying to help them out. In fact, Nitin Gadkari, a senior minister in the central government, is helping us a lot in this regard," he added.

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Twitterati share their cooking fails to cheer nine-year-old girl up after she messed up her dish

If you love to cook or bake, you put your heart and soul into the dish, with a hope that it will turn out to be delicious. But if it does not turn out as expected you would feel disheartened. The young girl went through the same, who tried a hand at baking and messed up the dish. Her mother turned to Twitter and asked users to share their cooking fails that helped her to cheer up.

When author and mother of four Shannon Hale tweeted, “My 9yo is in tears because she tried to bake something new and messed up. She thinks this means she can’t be a baker now”, and asked people to share their cooking experiences that flopped, the twitterati was quick to respond and make the girl feel better.

Hale’s tweet has garnered more than 11,000 likes and was retweeted 667 times. Many users commenting on the posts shared their epic cooking fails alongwith the pictures of their messed-up dishes to cheer the girl up.

What do you think about the post?

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