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ORIGINS Jan 2021 A cultural magazine of India Colours of The Mithai Punjab Makeover A lense into the rich This season, give cultural heritage of your traditional Punjab Indian Mithai a modern twist Say Neem The advantages of applying neem oil on your hair and skin TREASURED ROOTS



Editor’s Notehere is no place like home. For most of us, this ten-month period has been a time to rethink, reevauate and revitalize are familiar surroundings. And with this focus, we dedicate this beginning of the year 2021 to our home, truly the centre of our lives this year. In this issue we focus and try to draw our reader’s attention towards home- Tgrown brands. Part of the process of making conscious choices in our daily con- sumption pattern is also supporting small businesses, especially those that are home grown , and that need are unstinting support during a particularly difficult economic phase. Since, Baisakhi is right around the corner, we’re shining the spotlight on Punjab and the famous embroidery technique.of phulkari in our feature article. Our culture is very important to us. And therefore in this issue we’ve covered all topics ranging from Ayurveda, to Indian desserts, the big fat Indian wedding and more. We’ve also spoken to Ms Thejomaye Menon, a very famous artist and talked to her about how her art is the reflection of the culture she grew up in. I can only hope that this issue will help you create a surrounding that is warm, cosy and custom- ised to you. Wishing you all a very happy new year! Stay safe! Vatsalika Aggarwal





AND IT WAS ALL YELLOW!! LET THE SUNNY SHADE BANISH THE CORONA BLUES If there's one commonality among the cultures and regions of the world it is a laugh for colours, be it our clothes and food, or the design and architecture of our homes. Colour symbolism plays a major role in every aspect of our daily life, especially in celebrations and festivals. The colour yellow is back in fashion as people have started shifting to brighter colours lke shades of yellow to uplift their mood in the present situation. Ritu Kumar MUSTARD PRINTED CHANDERI KURTA RS  Kshiti alori BENTOTA AAL PALM YELLO W RS  Torani SUNEHRA The colour yellow symbolises sanctity. In India, SAANVI KURTA during auspicious ceremonies turmeric paste is RS   an important part of the pre wedding festivities and rituals. It symbolises prosperity and opu- lence. With the scare and uncertainty surrounded around us due to the pandemic, celebrations be it a wedding or any festival have been scaled down. People prefer going to small gatherings in comfortable clothing. They have started shifting to leisure clothing and open and lose silhouettes. While the celebrations are pared down and comfortable clothing is back in fashion, people have also started shifting to brighter colours in leisure wear to uplift their mood and add some joy to their celebrations. The color yellow which is associated with positive energy works the best here. It is a warm, energetic and bright color and quickly grabs attention. As the most luminous colour on the spectrum, yellow offers us a feelings of happiness and hope, which all of us need right now to deal with the current situation.

TRENDS Kshiti alori BENTOTA AAL PALM YELLO W RS  Kshiti alori COVELONG MUSTAR D RS  Anita Dongre Right LEONA DRES S RS   Let ALORA DRES S RS   Anita Dongre LANA KURTA RS   Anita DongreDHRITI SARE E RS   Anita Dongre MURINA SE T RS  

LESS IS Torani SWETAH SLOKA KURT A MORE RS   We live in a country of ‘maximalism’ ; from our Ritu Kumar idols, mythology, attire and rituals. Indian YELLOW PRINTED ANARKALI KURTA fashion has always been dominated heavily by DRES S bright colors, crafted textiles and embellish- RS  ments. There is a need for some freshness, of simplified design, not just in clothing but also across all different aspects of our lives. But how has this pandemic shifted our love for extravagant and bright clothing to leisure? Torani GULBAAG SLOKA KURT A RS   Ritu Kumar RED PRINTED ANARKALI KURT A RS  Anita Dongre TEERA TUNIC BLUE Rs   8

Ritu Kumar SKY TRENDS BLUE PRINTED CHANDERI KURTA Kshiti alori RS   COVELONG MUSTAR D Anita Dongre RS  AKRITI DRESS GREY RS   Ritu Kumar RED PRINTED GATHERED KURTI RS  Ritu Kumar INDIGO AND BROWN KURTA PRINTED DRES S RS   With the rise of a pandemic, work from home and quarantine, there has been a progressive shift towards leisurely in all materialistic aspect, using and buying only what is absolutely necessary. The wave of laid back, easy going, comfortable as a fashion and lifestyle choice is sweeping the world. Splurging on extravagant has become a distant reality now. People have started switching to comfortable and breathable clothing, clean silhouettes and muted tones that can be worn in day or night. Wearing loose fitted, breathable kurtas, dresses and skirts paired with comfortable mojaris is the latest look in India wear. From dressing in a comfortable kurti to slay- ing it in a co-ord set, you can still be at your fashionable best even when you aren’t stepping out of the house. 9

Whether you are a novice or season ethical shop per, here’s how you can reduce your fashion footprint in this decade. Be it food or fashion, an increasing number of people are choosing to adopt and choose brands and practices that are ethical in their relationships with the resources they use and the people they employ. 5 Tips To With the start if a new era, we might notice a shift from the Get an Earth consumerism we all partake in, to Conscious more environmentally conscious Wardrobe choices. Now more than ever, it is imperative that we give back and preserve the earth that has provided for us for so long. Pandemic or not, a change has been long coming and do the process might be slow it is a step in the right direction. While it is great to use fashion to express yourself, but doing so at the cost of the well-being of our environ- ment is not a sensible choice. Ethical fashion pays attention to and manages the human impact on the environment for fashion, allowing for indefinite pro- duction, in harmony with nature. Sustainable fashion is a philosophy and is a growing movement moving towards environmentally friendly fashion. Here are some tips on how to build a more earth- conscious wardrobe.

DOODLAGE DOODLAGE 1A closet cleanout Go through each and every item you own and decide whether you want to keep it, repurpose it, or donate it. You can repurpose your old t-shirt 2 FASHION FASTING into Tote bags for dish racks are you can even donate them ethically. Keep in mind that the clothes you donate should be in a clean and in good condition. Having a more Earth conscious closet doesn’t mean that you need to go out and buy new clothes which are sustainable and ethical. Going on a fashion fast means that you to pause all spending on clothes for a period of time. This fasting period gives you time to understand and think about the things you truly need in your closet. 3 Buy from ethical brandsEthical brands are doing great things from keeping traditional artist skills alive to designing new and improved eco fabrics and solutions. Now is the time to give such homegrown and ethical brands a boost they deserve. Buy showing our support for ethical brands, we can help create the type of society we want to buying from companies that take their commitments to our communities seriously. 11

Goodearth BODICE Grassroots by ANITA DONGRE 4 RENT, BORROW, SWAP BODICE Going somewhere fancy and have nothing to wear? Well, instead of spending so much money and buying something new why not rent it from somewhere? rental websites and shops, thrift stores are popping up everywhere. this means that you can wear something beautiful and pass it on to the next person to use. If not that, don’t forget your friends wardrobes too. You borrow from them and mix and match your clothes and have something new to wear each time. You’ll have a whole new wardrobe without shopping for new. 5 Use what you already own!Can you remember everything that’s in your wardrobe? How often do you wear each and every clothing item you own? Here comes the concept of having a capsule wardrobe. Keep trying out yoir old clothes, alter them a little, pair them up with different things, and you’ll get so many new outfit combos using just the clothes you previously owned. 12



BBREIADUETAIFNUDL While the pandemic restrictions are still there, many have worked within the rules to get married. But this year has brought in many changes to the traditional Big fat Indian wedding. Fanfare has taken a backseat and functionality is in. Brides today prefer comfortable, recyclable, and timeless pieces. The splendor of Indian weddings highlights a rich culture and the treasured traditions. Every Indian wedding reflects the culture of our country. Attend- ing a wedding in India is like exploring a part of it. From traditional food to attires to rituals, Indian weddings have it all. But unfortunately, we all know that because of this pandemic, these grand affairs have come to a standstill. Brides and grooms are planning last minute, intimate ceremonies. With the big fat wedding transforming into intimate celebra- tions, even the bridal trousseau has undergone a transformation. With the guest lists being cut down from 500 to just 50, investing in a grand but temporary wardrobe seems unnecessary. Brides prefer practical, timeless pieces that have our rich culture and heritage woven into them. Indian brides are beginning to realise that their big day is all about them and them alone! What they were should be only for their own joy. Naturally, dressing up for wedding in 2019 is completely different from dressing up for a wedding now. With the guest list being limited just 50-60 people, people want to focus on what’s important, they want to treasure those memories with their loved ones. People are starting to pare down, because it just feels right. Bridal wear choices have become little subtle, muted, and they are leaning more towards a classic look with minimal jewellery and light but fresh make up. This is one of the good things about mellow weddings, you don’t have the burden to impress others. now is the time to support local craftsmen and homegrown brands to pick up the best outfit for your special day. Pick an outfit which represents you and in which you feel free.

Chamee and Palak’s Bridal Collection 15

For a low key wedding, one can opt for a toned-down silk or Banarasi sari. Kanjeevaram, chikankari and chiffon are other fabrics that you can opt for. Wearing Orlando can also be a good choice but do not go for heavy ones. For the daytime ceremony, an embroidered skirt and a blouse can also work like a charm. For a night wedding, you can also opt for a traditional Resham and Chikankari outfit with intricate embroidery. Brides are shifting to the mantra of Less is More. Dressing up in ornate and extravagant Indian clothes is the farthest thing from people’s minds. They want to enjoy this day, be comfortable and happy. People want to spend these precious moments with their close family and friends and have a good time while making lots of memories. In coming times, there is a possibility that we might see brides who will find ways to repurpose their wedding outfits rather than just locking them into a trunk because they’re too heavy or too ornate for them to wear again. But no matter what you wear, we are sure you’re going to look like the most beautiful bride in the world no matter what attire you opt for!! 16



PIECES OF YOU By Tarun Tahiliani Despite of the current scenario and the uncertainty caused by a pandemic, Tarun Tahiliani sure knows how to keep the show going. Embracing the new normal, he unveils his latest Winter 2020 collection, ‘Pieces of you’, in India’s first ever digital fashion show This bridal and festive wear collection is the perfect blend of Indian aesthetics and modern style. With over 80 pieces, a myriad of Chikankari designs along with mukaish embroi- dery, Swarovski crystals and statement brocades can be seen throughout the collection. Tarun Tahiliani offered a wide range of options to the modern bride. The collection features a diverse range of gowns, evening dresses, anarkalis, sarees, and lehengas. The menswear collection mostly features Chikankari kurtas and jackets. Moving his focus from the traditional bride’s red and golden colour palette, Tarun Tahiliani experiments with pastels and whites this time. Black, orange, shades of green, pink and yellow were seen in the collection. The show opened with the drapes collection consisting of evening dresses, tunics and pre-draped ensembles. These were made with a very artistic blend of traditional Indian draping technique and Greek and Mesopotamian dressing styles. From shades of yellow and pink, to metallic colours, this drapes collection had it all.If you love trying out new things and experimenting with your looks, these evening dresses will surely work their way in your festive wardrobe! I loved how the designer has made festive and wedding wear look so easy and light. Keeping in mind the current situa- tion, the collection features a variety of lightweight embroi- dered anarkali A straight kurta paired with a embroidered sharara and a dupatta is the perfect choice for intimate cel- ebrations. The classic Chikankari ensembles are the perfect minimalistic and elegant outfits. A piece which definitely stood out for me was a green coloured long Jaamevar print jacket. Experimenting with black in the festive collection is a risky choice but Tahiliani managed to do it gracefully. Adding embellishments in the menswear coat and layering it with a shawl worked like a charm! Pairing up a simple black saree along with a heavily embellished blouse and a red rose to complete the look was definitely a hit for me.

The menswear collection was dominated by whites and off whites. Like all classic Indian menswear, layering was the prime focus here. The designer has beautifully created menswear wedding ensembles consisting of Chikankari coats and bundis, to long kurtas and churidars paired with shawls and pagdis. The bridal collection was my favourite of all. The soul soothing music and the dreamy en- sembles paired with such opulent and intricate jewellery sure gave me a wedding fever! These pieces had a mix of zardozi techniques, Swarovski crystals, pearls and dori work amongst many other things. This portion showcased the designer’s signature embellish- ments with Mukaish embroidery techniques. personally loved the level of intricacy in the lehengas and the jewellery in this collection. Apart from the traditional wedding colours, the designer introduced ensembles in white and gold as well. The 25 minute show was shot at Tarun Tahil- iani’s studio in Gurugram and more than 8000 viewers watched this show live on Instagram. The overall show had just 6-7 models with proper social distancing norms being fol- lowed. In his first digital show, Tarun Tahiliani has successfully accomplished of getting his en- sembles to life and giving his audience a lovely front row experience.

Confluence Of Cultures An interview with Thejomaye Menon Thejomaye Menon is an artist from Chennai who uses her art to explore the sense of being between cultures, from a uniquely female point of view. She did her masters and M Phil in fine arts from Stella Maris College, Chennai. Her works are figurative and reflect the interrela- tion between humans in simple and strong lines. Through most of her paintings, she tries and depicts equality between men and women. Her textured backgrounds of floating foliage lift the works from there rootedness and arrest the attention on the cen- tral figures. She has exhibited in numerous shows in India and abroad and is the winner of international award from Societe Lyonnaise des Beaux Arts in Lyon, France. Thejo was born and brought up in Chennai but her works have a very strong influence of her roots which are back in Kerala. As a child, she grew up in an environment influenced by spiritualism on one hand and cinema on the other. “My father was a film producer. I used to travel a lot with him to visit film sets and locations. The extravagant set design, the concept and the colours used, made me very curious, “she says. The awe inspiring verdant nature of Kerala in all its manifestations has impacted her sensibilities from a young age. Her paintings are an ode to her child- hood spent travelling in these vivid landscapes. Thejomaye Menon is an artist from Chennai who uses her art to explore the sense of being between cultures, from a uniquely female point of view. She did her masters and M Phil in fine arts from Stella Maris College, Chennai. Her works are figurative and reflect the interrela- tion between humans in simple and strong lines. Through most of her paintings, she tries and depicts equality between men and women. Her textured backgrounds of floating foliage lift the works from there rootedness and arrest the attention on the cen- tral figures. She has exhibited in numerous shows in India and abroad and is the winner of international award from Societe Lyonnaise des Beaux Arts in 20 Lyon, France.

Thejo was born and brought up in Chennai but her works She melds nature and human forms both male and female to vis- have a very strong influence of her roots which are back in ualize her concept of ‘energy’ as manifest in every creature of the Kerala. As a child, she grew up in an environment influenced universe image as well as inanimate. Certain motifs are a ubiq- by spiritualism on one hand and cinema on the other. “My fa- uity like the lotus and have become a leitmotif in all her compo- ther was a film producer. I used to travel a lot with him to visit sitions. Her engagement with the floral motive of lotus, holds a film sets and locations. The extravagant set design, the concept special appeal and attraction of its form, color and shape. Nearly and the colours used, made me very curious, “she says. The all her compositions have the element of water in it. “I don’t have awe inspiring verdant nature of Kerala in all its manifestations any dark or deep meaning in my work. Its all open and refresh- has impacted her sensibilities from a young age. Her paintings ing. People can have different interpretations of my paintings.” are an ode to her childhood spent travelling in these vivid Her first solo exhibition in Kuala Lumpur Transitional identity’ landscapes. Her style has evolved a lot from the time when she was held in 2018. This exhibition is a reflection of Thejo’s identity started her career as a visual art teacher at JBS college, Tamil and the influence both places, Chennai and Kerala have on her Nadu, to a professional artist. life. Living in Chennai, her paintings are deep rooted reflections “It’s a natural flow of ideas. I accept all the opportunities of her values and the culture of Kerala. It is something which one which come my way. I don’t plan anything. I just kept ex- can described as a state of social inbetween ness’. perimenting and trying out new things and eventually I find “Being a Malyali settled in Tamil Nadu, I have absorbed a lot something to hold on to,” she says. Her compositional aesthet- of what Tamil Nadu had to offer. But at the same time, I can- ics are complemented by her bold use of colour. Pure colour not break away from the Malayali that I am. I am bound by rendering is her trademark. Her colour palettes consist of a the language, the culture, the food, and the folk traditions of range of hues and their tonalities. From sky to Ocean blues, Kerala.””Transitional identity is that phase in my life where my the fresh verdant greens, Sandy and earthy browns, burnt paintings started depicting the progressive expression of her oranges to fluorescent pinks and infinite whites, her paintings thought process delving into abstract figurative.” Thejo was a have a very dominant visual aesthetic appeal. Bharatnatyam dancer as well. She loves the energy of the per- She loves Van Gogh’s artworks and the simplicity of the forms and colours used in his paintings. The purity of form is some- forming arts of Kerala. She enjoyed taking inspirations thing which has inspired her to use pure colours in her works. from Kathakali dance motifs and incorporating them “My strength are my colours. I take pure color and I don’t ever in her artworks. “I started painting with Kathakali try to mix anything. I just apply it directly onto the canvas, dance motifs, then from abstraction it became faces which is why my paintings look so vibrant.” She works with and from faces to partly body and full forms. Finally, acrylic paints, watercolors and oils. Of these three, painting I took away the Kathakali motifs and just simplified it with acrylic is her favourite. with just paintings of man and a woman. This process itself was a transition for me.” 21

Thejo’s family and the environment which she grew up in also had a strong influence on her paintings. “The women in my family are very independent and strong headed. This sense of independence has influenced me a lot and it is something which is crucial to my existence itself. This sense of independence is what I transfer onto my canvas.” One of her personal favourite paintings is “Women with wings.” She calls it the “freedom series.” Its a series which depicts how at one point of time in life every woman feels the urge to break away from all her responsibilities and family ties and do some- thing she really desires. There’s a time in every woman’s life when she has to break all ties and find yourself and truly discover her identity. Some of the other famous exhibitions and group shows by her are “Dynamic energies of existence”, “Yugma”, “Art for concern” and Women of substance.” The inherent duality that manifests life, finds resonance in her works. At first glance a sense of static feeling is conveyed, but as one progresses through her suite of paintings there emerges a sense of movement in her paintings. “Confluence of cultures” is how one could de, sribe her paintings and other artworks. It truly reflects her life, living in two separate cultures, and her life influences which she paints on the canvas. Her art is influenced from her childhood experiences, her family influences, her dance background and much more. “I am my work! My canvas is me!” she says.



Colours Of Punjab With Baisakhi is just around the corner, let’s have a look at the rich cultural heritage of Punjab, the festival of Lohri and the very colorful embroidery technique of Phulkari!

The Lohri Festival Punjab has one of the oldest and richest cul- tures of the world. Its diversity and unique- ness is evident in the Punjabi poetry, spirit- uality, education, artistry, music, cuisine, architecture, traditions, values and history. The compassion and high spiritedness exhibited in the lifestyle of people of Punjab (Punjabis) is hard to miss. While the Punjabis are known for their strong deter- mination, their culture presents a multi-hued heritage of ancient civilizations. Lohri marks the end of the winter. Crowds gather around large, teaming bonfires to celebrate the passing of the winter solstice. Lohri re-popularised the tradition of dancing and sing- ing as everyone circles the bonfire. Not just in Punjab, but other parts of North India, people celebrate by charring wood and playing songs on the radio. Lohri, the bonfire harvest festival of Punjab celebrated in the month of Magh, is symbolic of new beginnings. The first time Lohris are especially celebrated with pomp and grandeur. Friends and relatives gather around the fire and perform Gidda and Bhangra to the beat of Dhol, the drums of Punjab. Lohri signals the beginning of the happy sunny days. Folklore of Punjab believes that the flames of the bonfire lit on the day of Lohri carry the messages and prayers of the people to the sun god to bring warmth to the planet to help crops grow. The celebrations mark the beginning of the harvest season. Lohri night traditionally falls on the longest night of the year known as the winter solstice. The next day is celebrated as Makar Sankranti. For some, the bonfire symbolically indicates that the bright days are ahead of the people’s lives and acts as the carrier of people’s prayers to the sun god — it’s just a really good excuse to party.

PHULKARI With Baisakhi around the corner, it’s the season to celebrate phulkari. Phulkari, which means ‘flower work’, has a history etched in the culture of Punjab. This embroidery technique is from the Punjab Region (divided between India and Pakistan). Spun from the charkha this spectacular style of embroidery is patterned on odinis, shawls, kurtis and chunris. Phulkari is a face of fashion that finds its first mentions in Punjabi folklore of the romantic protag- onists Heer and Ranjha, Phulkari is a dream weaver for every Punjabi girl. It is something that is deeply entrenched in the cultural fabric of Punjab. In its present form, phulkari embroidery has been popular since the 15th century. It encompassed life in the villages and the creative ability of Punjabi women has produced innumerable and intricate geometri- cal patterns. However, most motifs were taken from everyday life. The main characteristics of this embroidery are the use of darn stitch on the wrong side of cloth with color- ed silken thread. From flowy dupattas to saris and modern silhouettes, phulkari can be translated and transposed into the modern wardrobe with great ease. The time-consuming embroidery has been a staple on odhnis (traditional heavy dupattas) but is now becom- ing popular as a décor accent – via cushion covers, table cloths and even wall hangings. Known for its use of colours — the vibrant, the better — the traditional threadwork with gota highlights is anything but subtle. With the fashion landscape peppered with phrases like ‘slow fashion’ and ‘haath ka kaam’, phulkari is finding favour with the stylish set. 26



A lens into the culture of Punjab Phulkari’s history dates back to the time when shared cultural practices were common and women from all religions crafted and wore these embroidered textiles. Just as gold is handed down generations, phulkaris in the early 19th century signified a woman’s material wealth and were deemed an important part of her wardrobe. They were typically worn as shawls draped over the head on special occasions such as marriages, births, and other rituals In addition to being wom on the body as an odhini (head cloth), phulkaris were also placed on (charpoy) woven cots as seat covers for special guests, draped on dowry chests or hung in the home as decoration during religious festivals, and presented to temples or gurudwaras (a Sikh house of worship) to present to a deity or to cover the Guru Granth Sahib (the Sikh holy book). 28

The Art of Phulkari Motifs were crafted either from imagination or more often, borrowed from the immediate environment. Therefore, names such as belan (rolling pin), kakri (cucumber) or even chandrama (moon), and sa- tranga (7 colours) are common motifs recognized in the phulkari parlance even today. Animals, flowers, trees, and folklore depicted in the embroideries are all resonant of a shared culture. Phulkari motifs and designs passed from generation to generation by word of mouth and example. Thus each family had its own characteristic style and, with practice and experience, each woman was able to develop her own repertoire. And so, phulkari became an expression of the embroiderer’s feelings, hopes and dreams.Using simple tweaks on motifs, women could express their emotions. For instance, through a pair of peacocks, the women of the Punjab de- scribed their personal life and relationship with their spouses. A drooping plumage signified a sad relationship or distance; a blooming one revealed the bliss of married life. Phulkari motifs often made it to poetry and conveyed bits of wisdom

Punjab is the land of rivers, vast agricultural lands, The larger than life people, and most interestingly— scrumptious food. Dishes like Sarson Da Saag, Punjabi Tandoori Chicken, Shami Kebab, Makki di Roti, Cuisine etc. are some Punjabi dishes that rule over the hearts of all food lovers. The culinary practices of the state are simple, rustic, yet exotic in their own way. Punjabi cuisine is known for its rich, buttery flavours along with the extensive vegetarian and meat dishes. One of its main features is its diverse range of dishes. Restaurant-style dishes use large amounts of ghee and butter. Some food items are eaten daily while some delicacies are cooked only on special occa- sions. If your mouth has started to water, here are a few dishes you can’t miss in Punjab. Easily the most common drink all over Punjab and many parts of North India, Lassi can win over the taste buds of anyone. Though a salty version of it is also available, it can’t take the place of the sweet one. It is generally served in huge glasses and topped with cream or white butter to make it rich. A proud member of Punjabi cuisine, Amritsari Kulcha could be described as a local variation of the famous naan. Known for its spicy taste and crispy texture, the dish is available in numerous variants like Aloo Kulcha, Masala Kulcha, Paneer Kulcha etc. It is generally eaten with chhole/chana and a glass of lassi. A match made in heaven, Sarso ka Saag and Makki di Roti is just the perfect example of a dish eaten daily in Punjabi households, particularly during winters. It a wholesome meal and generally consumed along with white butter or ghee, and jaggery.

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The SOLE of Punjab There is simply no need to give introduction to the Punjabi jutti. Why? Because they are one of the most extensively one footwear in India. The trend of wearing sky high heels with sarees and lehengas is slowly phasing out and is being replaced by comfy flats like kolhapuri’s, juttis, mules and more. Punjabi jutti’s are slowly but surely becoming the next big thing to wear. despite tough competition from lots of footwear brands, there has been no downturn in the attractiveness of Punjabi juttis, mainly because of the comforted offers. Beaded and threaded, embroided and embellished, in reds and greens and pinks and peaches, there is a beautifully crafted jutti out there for everyone. they were initially made out of pure leather with exquisite embroidery and embellishments. It’s the most versatile piece of footwear and can be worn throughout the day. keeping an outlook the expanding demand of Pun- jabi juttis by youngsters, hundreds of craftsmen are engaged in the art of making them in many states of India, primarily Punjab and Rajasthan. Jutti is usually drop in the slip-on style, carefully embroidered with colorful gists and beads. When in agreement with the dress, they provide an ethnic look and certainly enhance your personality. We can find college girls and many teenagers wearing Punjabi jutti’s with different dresses - ranging from suits to jeans and even skirts to get a chic look. Today, the jutti has evolved a multitude of styles, yet the fundamentals of its form and technique remain the same. Not only for women, when it comes to choos- ing footwear with kurta - pajamas or sher- wanis, Punjabi jutti’s are preferred by men as well.

Read on to find our pics for Punjabi jutti’s- 1. If you are looking for lighter shades in juties, this beige one would be a won- derful option. This juti is crafted in leather and is embroidered with sequins and metallic thread. 2. If you are looking for a simple style that can be worn everyday, go for this black jutti with hints of embellishment. 3. if embellishments are not your cup of tea, you can always opt for printed styles of juties. These floral printed ones are stylish and wood pair with most things in your wardrobe. 4. If you want something fancy, go for these richly embellished golden juties. Flaunting and intricate dabka work, the pair of juties flaunts a gold tint. the soul of the jutti is designed from 100% vegetable tanned leather and it also features a cushioned soul for maximum comfort.

But First, Self Care! During this time of home quarantines and social distancing in the COVID-19 pandemic, it's more important than ever to make self-care a priority. Self-care means putting yourself first. It is not a selfish concept, but a necessary one. Even when you feel stressed and overwhelmed, remember that oodles of self-compassion and self-care is the way to get through this difficult time. Here are 7 tips to take care of your- self when you feel mentally and emotionally exhausted. Ayurvedic drinks help you in boosting your immunity and staying fit which is important right now. Drinking ayurvedic drinks is a way to increase your water intake, which is beneficial in maintaining overall physical and mental health. Try ayurvedic drinks like Fenugreek water, Tulsi water, and Cinnamon water. 3 An Indian head massage with ayurvedic hair oils is a holistic treatment that helps you in relaxing by releasing stress that is accumulated in the tissues, joints and muscles of the head, face, neck and shoulders. It helps in rebal- ancing your body's energies which is a must right now. Kama Ayurved's Brigandi Intensive Hair Treatment Oil gives you the relax- ation you want by soothing frayed nerves. It uplifts your mode and treats hair problems like dandruff and hair fall. In times like these keeping yourself calm and composed is important. Aroma therapy at home is a great way to keep your mind calm and poised. Take help of suitable essential oils to create a soothing environment at home, regulate your nervous system and improve focus and concentration. Kama Ayurveda has a wide range of organic essential oils which are made by distilling hydrophobic liquid and are sourced from different parts of the plants like flowers, roots, barks, fruits, and leaves. They contain volatile aroma compounds that emit a mesmerizing fragrance and are ideal for massages, aromatherapy and wax candals. Use Ylang Ylang essential oil for calming, Tea tree essential oil for energizing, Orange essential oil to fight depression and anxiety and Peppermint essential oil for relief from congestion.

PROMOTION Since you are at home, it's a great time to practice being regular with your skin care routine. If you don't have any skincare routine yet, then we have Kama Ayurved's Skin Care Regine Knits to 5help you get started. It's always important to stay informed about what's going on around you. 6But at the same time, getting lost in this can lead to many psychological problems like anger, depression and confusion. Consider taking breaks from news and social media and distancing yourself from what's going on in the world. Even though it seems hard at first, it is the best way to prevent you from getting overwhelmed. 7Washing your hands is the first and foremost thing you have to do to protect yourself and your family from corona virus. You can use Kama Ayurved's Rose Jasmine Hand cleanser to cleanse your hands and soften them with the luxurious blend of floral and plant ingredients. List down all the things which make you happy and start doing them each day. Use bath oil to give yourself a full body oil massage after a long relaxing bath, apply a face back, read a book, listen to music, dance or learn new skills. Take some time off for yourself, give your body and mind the tender loving care they deserve with Kama's range of beauty and wellness products.

SAY NEEE...EM! The neem tree is a legendary tree which is considered sa- cred by the people of India and symbolises good health and protection. Each part of the name tree is used to improve well-being and treat ailments, which gives this tree the name “village pharmacy.” HIMALAYA Purigying Neem Face Wash KAMA AAYURVEDA Throughout Indian history and culture, the neem Organic Neem Oil Cold Pressed tree has been imbued with spiritual significance and presented as a symbol of health. Indian Ayurvedic texts have described the neem tree as ‘Sarva roga nivarini’ which means the universal healer of curer of all ailments. The twigs of neem are used as toothbrushes, the leaves are boiled in water to treat skin problems coma the flowers are used for aromatherapy and the seed, as well as the fruit, is used to extract the very powerful and potent Neem oil. All of Neem’s antiseptic, antiviral coma antibacterial and antifungal properties are found in this Neem oil. Neem oil is a popular choice for those people who are turning to natural remedies and adopting a organic life- style. Using Neem oil directly to skin and hair is considered most beneficial , but it is also used as an ingredient in oils, gels, creams, lotions, creams, soaps, and shampoos. Have a dandriff prone scalp? Suffering from acne? Having hyper- pigmentation skin issues? Want to prevent mosquito bites? Well, the answer to all of these problems is NEEM! A must have oil in the house, Neem oil purifies, repairs and heals your skin from head to toe. Here are some of the most popular neem oil uses- 1. Treating acne and hyper pigmentation 2. Moisturizing the skin 3. Relieving dandruff 4. Stimulating hair growth 5. Repairing the skin and hair from environmental damage 6. Treating head lice 7. Treating fungal infections

KAMA AAYURVEDA BENEFITS OF NEEM OIL FOR HAIR- Organic Neem Oil Neem oil is the nature’s cure to all hair and scalp problems. Dilute equal parts of neem FOREST ESSENTIALS oil with almond / sesame oil and gently massage it directly into the roots of the hair and Aloe Vera and Neem Hair scalp. After allowing it to work for 30 minutes cleanse your hair with a natural cleanser. Conditioner 1. Prevents Baldness and promotes hair growth- Neem oil helps in countering hair thinning which is caused by pollution, stress or medi- cation. it also has regenerative properties which support healthy cell division. Neem oil’s anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties prevent baldness. 2. Conditions dry hair- Regular application of Neem oil will result in lustrous and healthy hair as it contains several fatty acids which nourish your scalp completely. These fatty acids restore dry, undernourished or rough hair. 3. Helps with dandruff and itching- Neem has antifungal properties which provide relief from inflammation, itchiness coma and irritation caused by dandruff. For those who are prone to dandruff, Neem oil should be used regularly. It maintains the pH balance of the scalp and prevents dandruff forma- tion. 4. Treats head lice- To get rid of lice, apply neem oil on your scalp and leave it overnight. The next day, comb your hair with a thin comb to remove dead lice from your hair. The pungent smell of Neem oil repels lice. Azadirachtin, an insecticidal ingredient, which is present in neem, prevents the growth and reproduction of lice. BENEFITS OF NEEM OIL FOR SKIN- FAB INDIA Neem Tulsi Skin Toner Did you know that adding even a few drops a Neem oil to your massage oil can do wonders for your skin? Not only does it provide extra Naresh mint, it also boosts collagen production, hence 37 delaying formation of wrinkles. 1. Moisturises the skin- Vitamin E and essential fatty acids are present in neem oil which help in curing cracks caused by dryness. it also restores the protective layer of skin which further helps in reducing moisture loss. 2. Soothes inflamed and itchy skin- Neem Carrier Oil is known to soothe red, itchy, inflamed skin which is associated with elements like acne, burns, eczema and rashes. It’s strong antiseptic and antibacterial properties help in fight- ing skin infections. 3. Repels insects- Neem oil is an effective mosquito repellent. It can be applied to the skin after diluting or burnt in diffuser / kerosene lamps. Neem oil can be diluted with other oils and applied on the face. It helps treat acne and pimples, prevents aging, tones the skin, treats hyper pigmentation, and treat scars and blackheads. Neem oil has a special place in beauty legends because of its numerous benefits for face, body, and hair. So, what are you waiting for? In these times of uncertainty, make Neem oil a part of your beauty regime and make your body and mind feel positive, healthy, nourished and beautiful.

Celebrating MINIMALISM With the cause of handmade in Indian and #vocalforlocal gaining momentum, coolest homegrown Indian furniture labels. here are few of the best minimalistic Indian decor brands according to us which show us the beauty of this style. 1. JOSMO STUDIO A Mumbai+Goa based collective, they believe in transforming radical ideas into beautiful and purposeful products. They blend traditional artisanal techniques with contemporary designs. The furniture has a minimal design aesthetic and a visual and textural appeal. 2. MIANZI The aim to revolutionalize the way bamboo is seen and used around us. It shows us how this material can add beauty and warmth to any room. Their designs are contemporary in design yet timeless in appeal, long-last- ing, and sturdy. Moreover their creations are sustainable and eco-friendly.

3. SPIN Their design philosophy heavily focuses on products that are minimal, highly functional, adaptive and different. That designs and creations are simple and stunning. 4. OBJECTRY Objectry was founded by design duo Aanchal and Saugandh. They take basic and everyday pieces such as tableware, mugs, desk accesso- ries, or lamps and transform them into some- thing interesting. We will describe their designs as clean lines with crisp curves and edges. 5. SAR This is a pune-based design studio which designs pieces scoring high on form, function, and flexibility. Their products represent contemporary, contextual and functional design.

THE MITHAI MAKEOVER As this country has moved to rediscover its local ARQ traditions, it’s no surprise that after regional Indian food, it’s mithai that has been given a makeover by This brand believes in ethically sourced produce, uses no arti- these luxury mithai makers of India. ficial additives and has entirely recyclable boxes. Some of the There is a cultural tradition in India where we always famous sweets are besan truffle, caramel pedha, and malterine celebrate the beginning of something new by pre- marmalade. paring something sweet, like a dessert and offer it to god. Religion and faith are two very strong pillars of the Indian society. It is quite common for people to live offering of sweets and fruits in the temples on the street for anyone to have. many believe that is sweet dish made with pure ingredients like sugar, milk and ghee is the highest form of being ‘saatvic’ (pure) and is thus presented to God. since all the things that go into making sweets are pure thus they are consid- ered safe for offering to god’s in temples. Offering sweets to God is a ritual which has come down the ages. From the ancient times of considering mithai to be pure and offering it to others before self-con- sumption, Indian sweets find a place in everything auspicious. On number of luxury methane makers in India are starting to change what the tradi- tional metai looks like. Taking basics such as besan laddu, khoya burfi, Kaju Katli and giving them a modern twist by introducing variance like 24 carat gold varq pistachio Laddoo, Caramel Pedha and Besan Truffle and much more. We rounded up the 8 must 40 try brands for your dose of luxury mithai.

SAUGAAT Bikanervala has joined the articunal mithai mak- ers with its new line- Saugaat. It was launched in early 2020 and has been created with chef consultant, Sahil Mehta. That mean focus is gifting and they have come up with mithai that has traces of not just India, but the world. If you appreciate an amalgamation of interesting and new flavor combination, give Saugaat a try. KESAR NIHIRI Based in Jaipur, Kesar call them- Motichoor laddoos in flavor such selves the mithai boutique. They as wine, champagne, and lavender; have matai collections featuring blueberry, elderflower, and cheesecake black current barfi, blueberry lad- barfi; jalapeno and cheese namak pare- doo, Ferrero rocher laddoo, and Nihari has it all. Looking for organic much more. You can also have millennial luxury methai in India? them create boxes just for you. Well, you have your answer! Well, what are you waiting for? Order these sweet delights now!! BERFILA Berfila follows the belief of ‘quality, care, and creating unique products’. With a focus on gifting, the focus on a design with muted finesse. They have regular mithai as well as sweets with a modern twist. They offer sweets like, white chocolate and raspberry motichoor laddoo, ghiya barfi and a lot more exciting mithai twists. BOMBAY SWEET SHOP Situated in Byculla, Bombay sweet shop rein- vents traditional Indian sweets and methais with 100% vegetarian spin. Walking up to a peel it’s younger generation, the Bombay sweet Shop comes with creative gifting and delivery options as well. They have aam papa lollipops, ghewar tarts, drunken motichoor laddoo, Indian gummies and even a live DIY chikki counter.