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Bank holidays in October

The festive season is finally here! And with it come a host of holidays that are perfect for a quick trip away.

Durga Puja – Maha Saptami (October 8, Saturday), Assam, Sikkim, West Bengal

Photograph: Indraneel Biswas/Flickr (Under Creative Commons License)

This is the biggest, most elaborate festival in West Bengal and for Bengalis nationwide and around the world. Elaborate pandals are erected to house the Goddess Durga during her stay on earth. Durga Puja celebrates the goddess’ victory over the demon Mahishasura, and honours Shakti, the female force in the universe. There are 10 days of rituals, but the last five days (Shasthi, Saptami, Ashtami, Navami, and Dashami) are the most celebrated. On Shasthi the goddess is invited down to earth with her four children. The next day, Saptami, the goddess’ energy is guided into her statues through various prayers and rituals. Durga Puja celebrations involve much pandal hopping to see the elaborate decorations and indulge in lip-smacking Bengali cuisine.

Durga Puja – Maha Asthami (October 9, Sunday), Andhra Pradesh, Assam, Manipur, Orissa, Sikkim, Telangana, West Bengal

On this day the goddess is worshipped in her unmarried virgin girl form, and as part of the ritual, some young girls are treated as the goddess. According to Hindu mythology, this is also the day the Goddess Kali emerged from Durga’s head to kill Chanda and Munda, the henchmen of the demon Mahishasura. So there are evening puja’s to celebrate this victory.

Durga Puja – Maha Navami (October 10, Monday), Assam, Bihar, Karnataka, Kerala, Meghalaya, Sikkim, Tripura, Uttar Pradesh, West Bengal

Photograph: Kaustav Bhattacharya/Flickr (Under Creative Commons License)

This is the last day of worship and the day ends with a maha aarti. It is believed the Goddess Durga killed Mahishasura on this day and her demon-slayer form is especially venerated. Devotees dress up in their finest and the goddess’ favourite food is prepared for the celebrations.

Durga Puja – Vijaya Dashami  & Dussehra (October 11, Tuesday), nationwide, except Assam, Bihar, Manipur, Pondicherry

Photograph: Public.Resource.Org/Flickr (Under Creative Commons License)

On this day, Durga returns to her husband’s home. Married women offer red vermillion powder to the goddess and smear it on each other during the goddess’ send off. Durga’s statues are taken out in a grand procession and ceremonially immersed in the nearest water body. People then visit relatives and friends to exchange blessings and sweets, and partake in lavish meals.

This day also features another big festival—Dussehra, which marks the defeat of the demon king Ravana. The festival celebrates the triumph of good over evil, and huge effigies of Ravana are burnt amidst much celebration and lighting of firecrackers. Plays known as Ram Leela are performed across India, featuring key scenes from the ancient epic the Ramayana.

Muharram (October 12, Wednesday), nationwide, except Arunachal Pradesh, Goa, Lakshadweep, Meghalaya, Manipur, Mizoram, Nagaland, Punjab, Pondicherry, Sikkim, Uttarakhand

Photograph: Rauf Shaikh/Flickr (Under Creative Commons License)

Muharram is the first month of the Islamic calendar and is marked as a sacred month. Shia Muslims see Muharram as a month of mourning to commemorate the martyrdom of Imam Husain, Prophet Mohammad's grandson, in Karbala. Many Muslims fast during this period and observe it as a period of self-reflection. On the tenth day of Muharram, Ashura, the massacre at Karbala is remembered and Muslims congregate together for public expression of their grief through self-flagellation, chest beating, etc.

Lakshmi Puja (October 15, Saturday), Assam, Tripura, West Bengal

Photograph: Caitlin Regan/Flickr (Under Creative Commons License)

The third day of Diwali, this is considered an auspicious day by many Hindus. The day is devoted to worshipping the Goddess Laxmi, the goddess of wealth, prosperity and happiness. Devotes clean and decorate their houses to welcome the goddess; lamps are lit and sweet treats made. Through the puja, devotes welcome her to their home and ask her to partake in the offerings laid out for her. The belief is that happier the goddess is the more blessings she will bestow on the family.

Kali Puja (October 29, Saturday), Meghalaya, Orissa, West Bengal

Photograph: Kaushik/Flickr (Under Creative Commons License)

This festival is dedicated to the Hindu Goddess Kali, an embodiment of Shakti and the ferocious form of the Goddess Durga. The puja is an invocation to the goddess, and is done so as to diminish all negative energies that stand in the way of spiritual and material prosperity. Devotees offer prayers and enact scenes from her mythological stories.

Diwali October 29, Saturday: Assam Goa, Kerala, Pondicherry, Tamil Nadu, Tripura  October 30, Sunday: Nationwide, except Assam, Goa, Karnataka, Kerala, Pondicherry, Tamil Nadu, Tripura, West Bengal

Photograph: Khokarahman/Wikimedia Commons (Under Creative Commons License) 

Also known as the festival of lights, Diwali is a very colourful, happy festival that celebrates the triumph of light over darkness, of good over evil across five festive days. The festival marks King Rama’s triumphant return to Ayodhya after defeating the demon King Ravana. Families adorn their homes with colourful flowers, garlands, oil lamps, and strings of colourful lights, and exchange gifts with loved ones. Evenings are spent celebrating with firecrackers.

Balipadyami Diwali (October 31, Monday), Kashmir, Maharashtra, Sikkim, Uttarakhand, Uttar Pradesh

This day of the Diwali festival celebrates the return of King Bali to earth. According to Hindu mythology Lord Vishnu in his incarnation as the dwarf Vamana, defeated Bali and pushed him into the netherworld. Through a boon, Bali, who was known for his bravery and dedication to Vishnu, is able to return on this day every year to visit his kingdom. This is considered an auspicious day for those looking to buy appliances and other goods.

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Bank holidays in September

With so many holidays falling nearing a weekend, it’s the perfect time for a quick getaway!

Ganesh Chaturthi (September 5, Monday), Andhra Pradesh, Daman and Diu, Gujarat, Goa, Maharashtra, Orissa, Puducherry, Tamil Nadu, and Telangana

Photograph: Sandeepachetan.com Travel Photography/Flickr (Under Creative Commons License)

This festival is celebrated in honour of the elephant-headed Lord Ganesha, the Hindu god of wisdom, prosperity, and good fortune. One of the best-known and well-loved Hindu deities, on this day devotes install clay idols of Ganesha in their homes and in public pandals for worship. The festival usually lasts for 10 days and is a grand celebration with much fanfare, processions and music. At the end of the festival the idols are immersed in a large body of water.

Birthday of Baba Sri Chand (September 10, Saturday), Punjab

Birthday of Baba Sri Chand is the elder son of Guru Nanak, the founder of Sikhism. He chose not to marry and preferred the life of austere mediation. He travelled the length and breath of the country and founded the ascetic sect of Udasis, who believed in renunciation. His birthday is celebrated with great enthusiasm, with his devotes participating in prayers and devotional songs at gurudwaras.

Bakri Eid / Idu'l Zuha (September 12, Monday), Nationwide except for Andhra Pradesh, Manipur, Lakshadweep, Orissa, Sikkim, and Telangana

Photograph: Shaeekh Shuvro/ Wikimedia Commons

An important festival for Muslims in India, it honours Prophet Ibrahim’s willingness to sacrifice his son Ismail to show his faith in God. It is later revealed that this was a test and the sacrifice was not necessary. On this day, Muslims visit the mosque, listen to sermons and sacrifice a domestic animal in a symbolic gesture. It’s also an occasion for family members and friends to come together and bond.

First Onam (September 13, Tuesday), Kerala

Photograph: Syam Subramanian/Flickr (Under Creative Commons License)

This is the first day of one of the largest Hindu harvest festivals down South. It is believed that the mythical King Mahabali arrived in Kerala on this day. This day kicks off a 10-day long jubilant celebration of Kerala tradition and culture. Houses are decorated with floral carpets, people indulge in elaborate banquet lunches, and there are snake boat dances and retelling of myths and legends through various traditional art forms. September 14, Thiruvonam, September 15, Third Onam, and September 16, Fourth Onam, are also holidays.

Pang Lhabsol (September 16, Friday), Sikkim

A popular festival in Sikkim, it’s a day for honouring and revering Mt Kanchenjunga. The local Lepcha’s believe that Mt Kanchenjunga is their place of origin and hence their guardian deity. They accord the mountain the status of a god and worship it for safety and prosperity. The festival is famous for its colourful masked warrior dance performed in Chuklakhang Gumpa in Gangtok, along with other traditional dances and songs.

Sree Narayana Guru Samadhi Day (September 21, Wednesday), Kerala

It is on this day that that the 19th century saint and a prophet is said to have had his Samadhi ceremony. Sree Narayana Guru was also a religious reformer who promoted social equality and denounced casteism. His tomb in Sivagiri in Kerala attracts thousands of devotees every year, and there are celebrations including colourful processions, community feasts and cultural shows.

Birthday of Shaheed Bhagat Singh (September 28, Wednesday), Punjab

Photograph: Amanjeev/ Flickr (Under Creative Commons License)

Bhagat Singh is an India revolutionary who was one of the prominent faces of the Indian independence movement. He spread the revolutionary message in Punjab and was instrumental in assassinating a British Police Officer John Saunders to avenge the death of Lala Lajpat Rai at the hands of the police. He also bombed the Central Legislative Assembly as part of his anti-Raj activities, and was executed for his deeds. His birth anniversary is celebrated with much fervour with processions and cultural programs.

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6 photos that perfectly capture the Parsi way of life

Explore the unique culture of this small but vibrant community.

The story of the arrival of Parsis in India is a fascinating one. Fleeing Muslim persecution, the Parsis landed on the shores of Sanjan in Gujarat. The local king, Jadav Rana was suspicious of these new people who landed on his borders. To fend them off, he sent a bowl full of milk signifying that his land, like the bowl, was full and had no more place for refugees. The clever Parsi priest, in what may be the most genius symbolic gesture, stirred in a spoonful of sugar in the milk and sent it back. We will blend in with your people, he suggested, and sweeten your land like the sugar sweetened the milk. And it was thus that the fleeing Parsis finally found a home, one that welcomed them and permitted them to follow their religion.

Centuries have passed and the Parsis haven’t forgotten their word. They have not only prospered but also helped the society that aided them. As with all communities that struck roots in this multicultural nation of ours, Parsis too have assimilated into the socio-cultural milieu. While several of their customs and traditions are similar to that of the Hindus, there are some things that make them stand out from the crowd.

The gara is a type of embroidery that is unique to Parsi saris. Traditional hand-embroidered garas are considered heirlooms and Parsi women typically wear them on festive occasions. The saris feature exquisite embroidery, with fine, delicate needlework that showcase elaborate scenes. Birds of paradise, roosters, Chinese scenes, peacocks, roses and paisleys are the popular motifs. Very few stores retail hand embroidered Garas and a simple design might set you back by a lakh.

A Parsi gentleman sports a traditional ensemble with dagli and feto. Worn mostly during weddings and navjotes (initiation ceremony), a dagli is a white jacket held together with bows, worn over a white shirt and white trousers. It’s usually accompanied by a feto, which is a type of hard-hat.

The Ses is a ceremonial tray that is brought out on any auspicious occasion. Made of silver or German silver, the Ses holds items and utensils that are either used during a Zoroastrian ceremony or hold symbolic value. It typically contains a Soparo (conical metal container symbolic of something sweet, which is usually placed inside it), Pigani (a container that holds vermillion powder), Gulabdani or Gulabjal (that has rose water in it), Diivo (oil lamp), a garland, a coconut, raw rice, and dried dates. Other items placed in the Ses depend on the occasion. During Navroz, the Ses occupies pride of place on the table.

Irani Cafes are unique to Mumbai, which houses a majority of the Parsi population. These cafes that started out as stores-cum-eateries are now dwindling. Several of them go back to the 19th century. Some are on the verge of shutting down. Merwans (pictured above) in fact did shut down briefly. Ironically it is not the lack of customers that causes Irani cafes to shut but rather the disinterest of the younger generation to man the till.

The one-horse town of Udvada is home to the Atash Behram, the oldest and the holiest of the Parsi fire temples. In recent years, the small town has emerged as an unlikely tourist destination among the young and hip who are on an eternal search for new getaways from Mumbai. Its narrow lanes and large homes can keep the photographer in you occupied for hours. Udvada is a great place to experience first-hand what life for Parsis must have been like in the last century.

Navsari may be a small town but it is this very town that was the birthplace of two of India’s best-known industrialists—Sir Jamsetjee Jeejeebhoy and Sir Jamshedjee Tata. This is a photo of the fire temple at Navsari. Parsis are fire worshippers and the fire inside each temple is installed after an elaborate ritual and with different fires—one from a shepherd’s hearth to a potter's kiln—coming together to form one holy fire that burns eternally. But please do note that entry into fire temples is restricted to members of the Parsi community.

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5 lip-smacking Parsi dishes you must try this Navroz

Parsi New Year is the perfect time to sample some of the delectable food this community is famous for.

If there are two things Parsis the world over are known for, it’s for their sense of humour and love of good food. So it’s no surprise then that food forms an important part of any auspicious occasion. Many Parsis will happily acknowledge that the excuse to gorge on some delicious food is the best part of Navroz. So what exactly do Parsis salivate over on this day? Take a look.

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A photo posted by Perzen (@bawibride) on Jul 1, 2014 at 5:25pm PDT

1. Sagan ni Sev

For a Parsi, any auspicious day, birthday, anniversary, navjote, Navroz, starts off with a bowl full of either Sev or Ravo. Made from ghee-roasted vermicelli, Sev is a sweet treat that is flavoured with nutmeg, cardamom, and vanilla essence. It’s topped with fried raisins, almonds and cashews for a sweet and crunchy finish, and is traditionally served with sweet yoghurt. It’s the perfect beginning to a special day.

A photo posted by Perzen (@bawibride) on Sep 9, 2015 at 5:46am PDT

2. Dhandar Patio

This is a seemingly simple but lip-smacking dish that is a staple on all auspicious days. It’s usually had at lunch and consists of a simple mori (plain) dal, rice and a sweet, sour and spicy tomato-based prawn gravy. Dhandar is the Parsi equivalent of chicken soup for the soul and most households have their own versions of the patio (the prawn gravy). The best part about this dish? It can be cooked in a jiffy.

A photo posted by Rhea (@euphorhea) on Aug 15, 2016 at 10:08pm PDT

3. Saas ni Machchi

This is one dish you’re not likely to see in restaurants, though it’s often served at Parsi weddings and navjotes. Saas ni Machchi is a beautiful blend of flavours that’s served with either plain rice or simple Parsi khichdi. It’s unique for it’s egg-sugar-mixture that’s combined with green chillies, cumin, onions and flour to create a fish dish that you won’t forget anytime soon.

A photo posted by Raghu Deora (@wildpepper) on Jun 23, 2015 at 10:00am PDT

4. Chicken Farcha 

Many consider this the Parsi version of KFC. Crispy on the outside and succulent on the inside Chicken Farcha makes for a great starter. Big chicken pieces are marinated in a mix of spices and lemon juice for a few hours before being judged ready to cook. This dish isn’t as oily as other deep-friend dishes as the chicken is first steam cooked, coated with egg and breadcrumbs and then fried.

A photo posted by Jo (@soul_wayfarer) on Jul 28, 2016 at 10:53am PDT

5. Lagan nu Custard

A rich dessert, this is the perfect end to a lip-smacking meal. A variation on the English custard, this dessert is made of egg and condensed milk flavoured with nutmeg, cardamom and vanilla essence. These square chunks of heaven will have you asking for seconds in no time.  

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Breathtaking photos of Rajasthan's Shekhawati havelis

Stunning havelis, beautiful frescos... there is a reason why the Shekhawati region is called India's open art gallery.

Rajasthan's Shekhawati region is often overlooked for the more popular destinations in India's desert state. Indeed, while Rajasthan is a favorite among foreign tourists, this region is usually passed up for the traditional favourites such as Jaipur, Jodhpur, Udaipur and Bikaner. The Shekhawati region is located in the Delhi-Jaipur-Bikaner triangle and is truly a hidden gem in a state that has been the face of Indian tourism for the longest time ever.

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Unlike the other major tourist hubs, Shekhawati is not a city or a town but rather a region. It includes several small towns such as Nawalgargh, Mandawa and Jhunjhunu. The region itself is spread across some 100 km but Nawalgargh and Mandawa are its two most important centers, though it would be a bright idea to camp out at Mandawa, which is more centrally located.

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What makes the Shekhawati region so unique are its havelis or mansions. These havelis, some of which date back to the 18th century, have intricately painted frescoes all over them -- from inside as well as outside! As a result the entire region has several brightly painted havelis that are literally works of art.

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In the pages to follow, we take you through some of the most exquisite havelis we visited during our recent visit to Shekhawati.

The Shekhawati region falls along an ancient trade route. Ruled by the Shekhawat Rajputs, this was once a prosperous region with some 50 forts and palaces across 100 villages.

As time passed, several Marwari traders also migrated to the region and struck roots. Almost all these migrants were rich businessmen.

These men of money began commissioning havelis and employed artists to paint intricate frescos on them.

The frescos were a sign of opulence and it was only a matter of time before frescoed havelis mushroomed all over the region.

These frescos reflect the sensibility of the age and several of them have gods and goddesses painted all over.

But art always imitates life and thus modern motifs began making their way into these intricate works of art. This is an artist's impression of the railway train.

The art of haveli painting thrived for good three hundred years before families began moving out of the region to newer trade hubs such as Calcutta (present-day Kolkata) and Bombay (present-day Mumbai)

The havelis were thus abandoned.

This -- one of the twin havelis in Nawalgarh, commissioned by a trader for his two sons -- is one of the many havelis that lie locked up for most part except when the caretaker opens them for curious visitors for a small baksheesh.

Today, most of these havelis are in various stage of disrepair with the hand of time slowly but surely wiping away the precious frescos. In most major havelis, the only resident is the caretaker.

Haveli Nadine le Prince is a happy exception. Purchased by Nadine le Prince, a French artist, this haveli is in being restored one fresco at a time. Unlike most other 'restoration' jobs that usually involve painting over the centuries old frescos, Nadine le Prince and her team of artists goes about restoring these priceless works of art in a systematic and scientific manner. The haveli also doubles up as a hotel.

The havelis attract a steady trickle of travellers but the tourism avalanche is yet to hit this region. For most part, Shekhawati remains a hidden gem of a superstar tourism state.

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Bank holidays in August

The festive season in India has just begun and here is the list of holidays in August.

Teej (August 5, Friday), Haryana

Photograph: University of the Fraser Valley/Wikimedia Commons (Under Creative Commons License)

A popular festival in northern and western India, Teej celebrates Goddess Parvati’s marriage to Lord Shiva. Women pray and sing devotional songs to the goddess to seek her blessings for a strong marriage.

Drukpa Tsheshi (August 6, Saturday), Sikkim

Celebrated by Buddhists, this festival commemorates the day Buddha turned the Wheel of Dharma for the first time. It also celebrates Buddha’s preaching of the first of the four truths. On this day, Buddhists pay homage to Buddha and light butter lamps in their homes and in gumpas, and offer prayers for peace and happiness.

Tendong Lho Rum Faat (August 8, Monday), Sikkim

This is an ancient nature festival celebrated by the Lepcha tribe in Sikkim. On the first day of this three-day festival, prayers are offered to Mount Tendong as legend has it that the mountain saved the Lepcha from a terrible deluge. As part of the festival, the tribe worships the mountains, lakes, rivers and caves that are sacred to it through prayers, songs and dances.

Patriot’s Day (August 13, Saturday), Manipur

This day is observed in memory of those who sacrificed their lives during the 1891 Anglo-Manipuri war. It was on this day that the British hanged Manipuri prince Bir Tikendrajit Singh and Thangal General for waging a war against them.

Independence Day (August 15, Monday), National

Photograph: Sowmya's Photography/Flickr (Under Creative Commons License)

This is the day when India won its hard-fought for freedom from British rule. On this day in 1947, the first prime minister of India, Jawaharlal Nehru, declared India an independent nation and read out his famous ‘Tryst with destiny’ speech. The day is celebrated with flag-hoisting ceremonies throughout the country, and many states celebrate with parades and cultural events, the biggest of course being in Delhi at the Red Fort.

De jure Transfer Day (August 16, Tuesday), Puducherry

An almost forgotten occasion, this day marks the accession of French colonial establishments, like Puducherry, to the Indian Union in 1961. Through the transfer or merger, Puducherry became a Union Territory of India. The people of Puducherry could now avail of the rights and laws enshrined in the Indian Constitution.

Parsi New Year (August 17, Wednesday), Gujarat and Maharashtra

Celebrated with much bonhomie this day marks the first day of Zoroastrian calendar, the beginning of something new. Parsis visit fire temples to give thanks for the year that was and to seek blessings for the year to come. Families gather together to savour special Parsi delicacies and many step out for fun plays.

Raksha Bandhan (August 18, Thursday), Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, Uttarakhand and Uttar Pradesh

Photograph: Vishal Dutta photo's/Flickr (Under Creative Commons License)

An ancient Hindu festival, Raksha Bandhan celebrates the bond between brother and sister. As part of this festival, sisters tie a thread around their brothers’ wrist as a symbol of their love and prayers for well-being, while the brothers in turn promise to protect them. It is also an occasion to celebrate ties that transcend beyond the biological family and as such has been taken up by people from other faiths as well. 

Janmashtami (August 25, Thursday), Assam, Bihar, Chattisgarh, Chandigarh, Delhi, Gujarat, Himachal Pradesh, Haryana, Jharkhand, Jammu & Kashmir, Madhya Pradhesh, Manipur, Nagaland, Orissa, Punjab, Rajasthan, Sikkim, Telangana, Tripura, Tamil Nadu, Uttarakhand and Uttar Pradesh

Photograph: AroundTheGlobe (Swaminarayan Sampraday)/Wikimedia Commons (Under Creative Commons License)

A fun festival that involves much singing and dancing, Janmashtami celebrates the birth of one of Hinduism’s most loved deities, Lord Krishna. Some devotes observe a fast all day and night, while others recite hymns and sing devotional songs through the night. In Maharashtra, the festival is celebrated with an event in which groups form a human pyramid to break an earthen pot filled with buttermilk suspended high above. This is inspired by legendary tales of Krishna childhood endeavours to steal curd and butter from pots out of his reach.

Ayyankali Jayanthi (August 28, Sunday), Kerala

This is a celebration of the birth anniversary of Ayyankali, a social reformer for worked for the upliftment of the Dalits in the Travancore area. He strived to remove caste and class barriers and is therefore seen as a hero by many Dalits. On his birthday, Dalits from all over gather together to remember and celebrate the life of their leader.  

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7 blunders to avoid at job interviews

Here's what NOT to do while appearing for your next job interview

Photograph: World Relief Spokane/Flickr (Under Creative Commons license)

A job interview can be as frightening as it can be exciting. And in several ways a job interview isn't unlike a first date: what you say and how you say it makes all the difference. So what are the blunders you must avoid at job interviews? Let's take a look.

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1. Accepting their offer of tea/coffee

It is customary in India to offer beverages to a guest. This courtesy is often extended to interviewees. It is an offer that should always be politely turned down. If you are absolutely parched, request for a glass of water. The big reason to avoid the chai-coffee offer is simply because unconsciously or consciously you are nervous while facing an interview, and your teacup/coffee mug almost always reveals your nervousness. The other good reason to turn down the offer is because you wouldn't want your tea to last longer than your interview, which can be quite uncomfortable.

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2. Dress inappropriately

However casual the organisation may be, that cannot be an excuse for showing up in a pair of jeans and sneakers. A job interview is a professional commitment and you need to understand the importance of grooming. So, opt for a pair of formal shoes and while you needn't be in a tie and a jacket, do pay attention to your clothes. You can follow the casual dress code after you join the organisation...not when you're interviewing to be part of it.

3. Not researching about the company.

You will be surprised to know just how many people walk into interview rooms without having any idea about their prospective employers. It leaves a terrible impression on your interviewer because it shows that you haven't made the effort to learn about the company you want to work for. And today, especially, there is no excuse to not have this kind of information. All you need to do is visit the company's website! So, ensure you have enough information about the company you want to work for. It's only fair you do that, right?

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4. Not reading the job description carefully.

Yet again, this reveals a lack of seriousness on the part of the candidate. Not reading the JD also puts you at a disadvantage because you may not be able to project yourself in a manner that is best suited to the job.

5. Revealing personal details

Most interviews begin with the standard question asking you to speak something about yourself. Several people take this as a cue to tell the interviewer about their families. This is one of the most commonly committed blunders in interviews. When someone asks you to speak about yourself, focus only on your professional achievements and learning. At the same time, remember to keep it concise so the interviewer can move on to the next question.

6. Not picking up on non-verbal cues

Your interview is like a first date and that involves paying attention to your interviewer's non-verbal cues. So, make eye contact with your interviewer instead of looking at your shoes. The idea is to engage the interviewer and pick up on her/his body language and respond to it. If you see that your interviewer is getting bored, stop. If you see her/him being interested, tell them something more interesting about it. Don't treat a job interview like a battle in which you empty your ammunition and go away. Treat it, instead, like a conversation in which you need to get the other person's interest.

7. Not brushing up on your basics.

You never know what kind of question will be thrown at you.  For all you know, you may be asked about something you've studied in your first year of college. Saying you learnt it a long time ago won’t help your cause. So brush up on your basics before you go for the interview.

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5 of the most expensive food items in the world

Man’s search for rare exotic food continues, and if he can’t find it, he makes it! Here are some culinary treats that are best enjoyed with a bulging wallet and unlimited credit.

ALSO READ 5 best luxury spas in the world

1. Almas Caviar

Almas is the Persian word for diamond, so you know where we’re going with this. This is the most expensive caviar is the world. The caviar is taken from an incredible rare 60 to 100-year-old Beluga sturgeon found in the Caspian sea, which accounts for it’s high price tag. A kilo of Almas Caviar retails for a whopping $25,000!  Since it’s so rare, the caviar isn’t easily available and comes packed in a 24K gold tin. Talk about sparing no expense!

2. Frrrozen Haute Chocolate

This sinful dessert is available at Serendipity 3 in New York City, and at a cool $25,000 it is sure to be a mouthful! The concoction is made with a mix of rare and expensive cocoas from around the world, milk, whipped cream and shavings of the expensive La Madeline au Truffle chocolate. All of this is topped off with 5 grams of edible 23K gold. The opulent dessert is served in a baccarat Harcourt crystal goblet that has an 18K gold and diamond bracelet draped around the neck. It also comes with a gold spoon, that’s yours to take away, along with the bracelet, when you’re done.

Photograph: Getty Images

3. European White Truffles

It’s a well-known fact that truffles are a delicious delicacy and an expensive indulgence. While black truffles are the ones we hear about the most, the truly expensive ones are the white truffles. Truffles in general are rare, white truffles more so. White truffles are only available a few months of the year and are found almost exclusively in one part of Italy. How expensive are white truffles? A 4.16 pound white truffle was sold at Sotheby’s for a jaw-dropping $61,250!

Photograph: Mortazavifar/Wikimedia (Under Creative Commons License)

4. Berco’s Billion Dollar Popcorn

Popcorn is a hugely popular snack around the world. And the folks at Berco’s decided to take things up a notch. The popcorn is made with the finest ingredients from around the world. The ingredients include butter from Vermont Creamery, Laeso, the most expensive salt in the world, organic sugar for the caramel and Nelson Massey Bourbon Vanilla. The popcorn is then garnish with 23K edible gold flakes. At $500 for a two-gallon tin, this is a snack fit for kings!

5. Fortress Stilt Fisherman Indulgence

This is a mouth-watering champagne and chocolate treat that costs a cool $14,500. Served at The Fortress Resort and Spa in Sri Lanka, the dessert is a gold leaf Italian cassata that has a Dom Pérignon champagne sabayon as it’s based and is flavoured with Irish cream. But the highlight of the dish a massive 80-carat Aquamarine stone, whose diameter is that of the head of a soup spoon! The stone rests near a hand-made chocolate carving that depicts a local scene—that of a Sri Lankan fisherman clinging onto his stilt.

Photograph: Rohan Kar/Flickr (Under Creative Commons License)

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5 ways to deal with a layoff

Layoffs needn't be the end of the world. Here are five ways to deal with being laid off.

Photograph: Sander van der Wel/Flickr (Under Creative Commons license)

Gone are the days when you'd end your career at the same company where you started. You move on from job to job, taking up offers that offer you better opportunities and better salaries. The reverse of this is also true. With organisations running tight ships, it is as normal for employees to be laid off as it is for employees to quit the company. Layoffs have, unfortunately, become a reality of our professional lives. And while it is always difficult when it happens, here are five simple ways to deal with being laid off.

1. Move on from self pity

Feeling sorry for oneself is often ones first reaction to being laid off. ‘Why me?' is a question you find asking yourself one too many times. You look back at all the opportunities you'd turned down and wonder why you never took them off. All of this is bound to happen. And you should let yourself go through the motions for some time. But also be aware that the sooner you snap out of it, the better it will be for you. It is best if you move on from ‘Why me?' to ‘Now what?' as soon as you can. It will not only help you put your layoff experience behind you but also help you look forward to something more exciting and more positive.

ALSO READ 9 quick stretches to do at your workstation

2. Do not blame your boss. Ever!

It is easy to blame one's boss for one's layoff. But what most of us forget is that our bosses are also just part of a system… and s/he may well be at the receiving end of a layoff herself/himself. It helps if you don't perceive your boss to be your enemy. It is important to be close to your boss and be her/his confidant so you will know of any difficulties that will most likely come down your way. Your boss is also the person your prospective employer will reach out to for a reference check. It doesn't help, then, to blame your boss for being laid off.

ALSO READ 10 things you should never do on your first job

3. Take solace in the fact that people far better than you have been laid off too.

Everyone suffers setbacks. People far better than you have lost their jobs. Even Steve Jobs was sacked from the company he founded! When you're appearing for your next interview, don't try to explain it away. Instead of being negative or defensive about it, prepare yourself on how you'll answer that question when it comes up.

4. Do not speak ill of your company

While it is perfectly normal to feel hatred towards the company that has laid you off, it is crucial not to let your negativity show to people around you, especially when you're appearing for the next job interview. It's the same rule that applies to talking about ex girlfriends/boyfriends: you speak about what you learnt from the experience and move on. Never speak anything negative about it because nothing good comes out of it. How you speak of your lay off will reveal your ability to deal with the blows that life deals you.

ALSO READ 5 things you should not do when you’re serving your notice

5. Remember, when one door closes...

Sure, it's a cliché but nothing good will come out of staring at a closed door. Don't get so involved with the layoff that you are unable to see the other opportunities around you. Look at the hiatus as an interval rather than an end. More often than not a layoff gives you an opportunity to rethink your career and for all you know this could well be that much-needed break you'd been hoping to take all along anyway.

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5 best luxury spas in the world

From resorts nestled in the Alps to clinics overlooking the turquoise blue waters of the Mediterranean, these are the spas the rich and famous jet off to for some R&R.

ALSO READ Got Rs 50.6 lakh to spend? Photos of what the most expensive air ticket in the world will get you

1. Villa Stéphanie, Baden-Baden, Germany Since Roman times, people have flocked to the healing waters at Baden-Baden, and this spa aims to take things a notch higher. The 15-bedroom Villa Stéphanie is the former residence of a German duchess and is designed to ease frazzled souls. There are a host of beauty, detox, wellbeing, medical and nutritional offerings, along with therapists, nutritionists and personal trainers ready to get you into shape. Plus the special ‘diet’ food here is as delicious as a fine dining meal. Oh, and if you really want to cut yourself off from the world, there’s an option to block all Wi-Fi signals entering your room. Now that’s guaranteed to give you some peace.

2. Lefay Resort & Spa, Gagnano, Italy Between savouring a low-calorie Mediterranean fare and getting anti-cellulite massages, you can easily spend your days practising tai chi or just cycling around. What makes Lefay Resort and Spa unique, though, is the fact that it combines the knowledge of Chinese medicine and Western therapies. The good folks at Lefay discourage crash diets and instead enable you to make changes to your eating habits in a way that is nutritionally sustainable to your body. So if you’re suffering from insomnia or back-related issues or are just keen on losing weight (and wouldn’t mind getting pampered crazy along the way) this is the place to go.

3. SHA Wellness Clinic, Alicante, Spain Famously known for having hosted Russian President Vladimir Putin, Kylie Minogue and Naomi Campbell, this clinic is a regular haunt for celebrities. The wellness resort is popular for its health and beauty specialists that tailor-make everything, including bespoke health treatment plans to cure whatever ails you. Treatment plans include a blend of Eastern and Western therapies, including hydrotherapy, acupuncture, and macrobiotic and organic diets. The rooms here are as luxurious as any resort and the 320 square feet Royal Suite comes with its own swimming pool and heliport service. Along with its views of the Mediterranean sea, the wellness clinic also has outdoor and indoor pools, waterfalls, and tropical and Zen gardens.

4. The Chedi Andermatt, Andermatt, Switzerland This is a luxury hotel and ski resort nestled in the Swiss Alps, surrounded by the breath-taking mountains in the Urseren Valley. The resort has 105 rooms, one of which is the luxurious Furka, a two-storey suite spread over 3552 square feet. The suite has it’s own personal spa with Jacuzzi and sauna. Heating, lighting, blinds, and music in all the rooms are controlled by an iPad, and there are fireplaces in all rooms. The resort has a mountain-facing 35-metre indoor pool, a 12 metre outdoor one, a walk-in cheese room and a wine and cigar library. The spa itself is massive, with multiple treatment rooms, a Finnish sauna, hydrotherapy pools, a plunge pool and a Turkish hammam. Popular treatments here include the extravagant The Chedi Oriental Ritual. The spa uses products from organic brands like Alpienne, Ila, and Ren and there are wonderful Acqua di Parma toiletries in all the rooms.

5. Evason Ma'In Hot Springs, Jordan Situated 866 feet below sea level, the spa is located on the eastern shore of the Dead Sea, nestled in a rocky canyon. The spa utilises the area’s geothermal activity to great effect. There’s a natural hot spring waterfall that gushes from the cliff top above the main spa building and the spa offers many signature therapies that take advantage of the therapeutic properties of the mineral-rich waters. A true Middle Eastern oasis to rejuvenate your weary self.

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Got Rs 50.6 lakh to spend? Photos of what the most expensive air ticket in the world will get you

The Residence on Etihad Airways will take you from Mumbai to New York and back in style

Etihad has always been known for its lavish first class seats. In fact when Skytrax announced their annual awards, the flag carrier of the United Aram Emirates swept the awards for the Best First Class Seat, Best First Class Onboard Catering and Best First Class. Etihad was named the sixth best airline of the year at the awards. But what set Etihad apart was the one thing that no other airline has so far: The Residence. The three-room suite that is available for anyone with really, really deep pockets is now available for the rich and famous of Mumbai too. Earlier this year, Etihad threw open The Residence for Mumbaikars flying to and from New York. The round ticket, costing a little over Rs 50.6 lakh,  is the most expensive in the world but it sure does come with a lot of perks. Read on to find out more!

ALSO SEE 5 things we wouldn't have without JRD Tata

The Residence is being marketed as a ‘penthouse in the sky'. It has a 32-inch flat-screen TV, two dining tables and a leather sofa in the living room. If you're flying The Residence, no packaged meal for you! Instead the onboard chef will prepare your lunch or dinner on board! And for the duration of the flight, you will be served by a Savoy-trained butler.

The Residence has three rooms. Its bedroom comes with a double bed. This is a first for any commercial jet. The linen is Italian and the bedroom has a 27-inch flat screen television.

If you fancy a shower just before you disembark, Etihad's Residence has a bathroom too! This is only available on the fleet of A380-800 aircraft.

Etihad will also arrange a pick-up for you in a chauffeur-driven luxury car and will arrange a drop at the place of your choice. The Residence will also grant you access to a private lounge and a travel concierge who will be thrilled to reserve a table at a restaurant or book a ticket for a cricket match at Wankhede or a baseball game at the Yankee Stadium.

Currently, Etihad Airways flies daily from New York to Mumbai, London, Sydney, New York and Melbourne.

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5 little-known places in India that should be on your bucket list

From Dawki to Dhanushkodi and beyond: we bet you haven't heard of these hidden gems

If you, like us, simply prefer to stray away from the madding crowds, you've landed on the right page. Because of several reasons Indians are travelling more than ever (not to mention the fact that more foreigners are visiting India with each passing year). Unsurprisingly, almost all our major hill stations and beaches are now overcrowded with travellers looking out for virgin territories to get away from. Today, we bring you five little-known places in India that you absolutely must visit. Ready?

ALSO SEE 10 breathtaking photos of Kargil that remind us just what Indian Army fought for

1. Dawki, Meghalaya

Imagine a place where the waters are so clean you can see the riverbed! Welcome to Dawki, the real gem of Meghalaya known for its emerald green River Umngot. Located some 96 km from Shillong, the state capital, Dawki's waters are so clean that you'd be forgiven for thinking that your boat is suspended mid-air. Dawki offers almost no places to stay but Mawlynnong (reputed to be Asia's cleanest village) is just about 35 km away and has several homestays.

Photograph: Wikimedia Commons

2. Dhanushkodi, Tamil Nadu

You could argue that Dhanushkodi isn't exactly a hidden gem since it is very much on the map of pilgrims visiting the Kothandaramar Temple. These pilgrims travel 25 km to bathe in the ocean as part of a temple ritual. But barring these women and men, Dhanushkodi sees little activity. It has been a ghost town since the cyclone of December 1964 that not only killed the townsfolk but also the 150 passengers on board the Pamban-Dhanushkodi passenger train. Dhanushkodi was declared unfit for habitation and abandoned. But, quite like several abandoned towns across the world, Dhanushkodi is strangely beautiful. Its dilapidated houses and churches can be hauntingly attractive. It will only be a matter of time before Dhanushkodi becomes a centre of activity again since it is here that the proposed 23-km bridge connecting India to Sri Lanka will end. (ALSO SEE 5 best getaways from Chennai)

Photograph: Wikimedia Commons

3. Mararikulam, Kerala

This hamlet by the sea is perhaps Kerala's finest beach getaway that has somehow stayed hidden from the prying eyes of tourists. While CGH and Abad, Kerala's two major resort chains, have been running resorts here, the best places to check into are the many homestays lining the beach. Indeed there isn't anything to do in Mararikulam but if you'd rather spend your weekends taking walks in the village and kayaks into the sea or just lazing around in your hotel or homestay, Mararikulam is a pretty darned good option. (ALSO SEE 5 great eco-friendly resorts in India)

Photograph: N Borun/Flickr (Under Creative Commons license)

4. Udvada, Gujarat

Home to the Aatash Behram (entrance pictured above), the holiest and the oldest fire temple of the Parsi community, Udvada is just about 200 km from Mumbai but hasn't ever been marketed as a tourist destination. However if your idea of fun involves taking a walk back in time, there cannot be a better getaway from Mumbai than Udvada. With its turn-of-the-century houses with trademark double poaches and narrow roads with just a handful of hotels serving delectable Parsi cuisine Udvada is not a place you'd easily forget.

5. Orchha, Madhya Pradesh

No list of hidden gems in India can ever be truly complete without Orchha. For starters, its name can be literally translated as ‘hidden place'. Typically, a lot of people would just visit Orchha alongside Jhansi, which is about 16 km away or en route to MP's superstar destination, Khajuraho, which is some 170 km away. But Orchha with is beautiful monuments, several of which continue to retain their grandeur, deserves a weekend of its own.

Photograph: Wikimedia Commons

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9 quick stretches to do at your workstation

Relieve the pain and stiffness caused by slouching at your desk all day with these simple exercises that don’t need any props.

Graphic: Designed by Freepik

We all know it. Sitting in one position for a prolonged period of time is not good for our health. Add to that the way we sit, type, rest our wrists and hold the phone. This puts us at an increased risk of back pain, shoulder pain, tense muscles, poor posture, and obesity. A lot of this can be relieved if you just take out 5 minutes every day to do these really simple stretches at your desk. They’re a great way to improve flexibility and strength, and give your mind a break.

Neck stretches 1. Start by loosening the muscles in you neck. Sit up straight with your feet planted firmly on the ground. Lean your head to the left, pause for a few seconds, come back to the centre and then lean to the left. Pause for a few seconds and come back to the centre. Do this five times per side. Then, tilt your head to the left, and use your left hand to apply some pressure on the right side of your head. Repeat on the other side.

2. Next, sit up straight and grab hold of the seat of your chair with your left hand. Breathe in and exhale as you tilt your head sideways towards the right. Remember to keep your shoulders straight. You will feel a stretch on the left side of your neck. Hold this position as you count to 10. Come back to the centre. Repeat this for the right side as well.  

Shoulder and arm stretches 3. Raise your arms over your head with the fingers interlaced. Stretch your arms up, with palms facing the ceiling and stretch. Hold as you count to 10. Bring your hands down and do the same stretch one more time.

4. Next, do the handcuff stretch. Sit on the edge of your chair, put your hands behind your back and grasp your hands together. Sit straight and pull your shoulders back while pushing your chest forward. Hold this position as you count to 10. Bring your hands down and repeat.

5. Now it’s time for the side deltoid stretch. Straighten your left arm and position it across your chest. Place your right hand on the left elbow. Push the elbow towards the chest. Hold for 10 and repeat with the other side.

Wrist stretches 6. Stretch out both your arms in front of you. Your left palm should be facing outward. With the fingers of right hand gently press the fingers on your left back. Hold for a few seconds and repeat with the other hand.

7. Bring your hands near your chest and touch the fingertips together. Do not press the palms together. Then, squeeze the fingertips together and rotate first downward and then outward.

Leg stretches 8. Stand behind your chair and hold the backrest with your right hand. Bend your left leg and hold is back with your left hand. Pull your foot towards your buttock so that you feel a stretch in the front of your left thigh. Hold while counting to 10. Then repeat with the other leg.

9. Stay behind your chair and hold it for support. Place your left foot a step behind your right. Keep your left leg straight and bend your right knee. Both heels should be on the ground. Lean against the chair so that the calf muscles in your left leg are stretched. Hold while counting to 10. Then switch legs.

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10 best airlines in the world

Skytrax World Airline Awards have announced the best airlines in the world.

The annual Skytrax World Airline Awards are considered to be the global benchmark of airline excellence. Each year, the aviation industry looks forward to these awards that recognize the work done in the aviation sector. The results for this year’s awards are out and here is the list of the top ten airlines in the world.

ALSO READ 5 things we wouldn’t have without JRD Tata

10. Lufthansa

At number ten is Europe’s largest airlines that continues to deliver great service despite the budget cuts and labour issues. Lufthansa also won the prize for Best Transatlantic Airline and Best Airline in Western Europe.

Photograph: Jun Seita/Flickr

9. Qantas

Just like Lufthansa, Qantas has also had to face several financial setbacks in the recent years. But that hasn’t come in the way of delivering great service. The airline also has a squeaky clean fatality-free safety record, which in an era of airline crashes is something to be truly proud of.

Photograph: Craighton Miller/Flickr (Under Creative Commons)

8. EVA Air

What was founded as an offshoot of Evergreen Group, a container ship giant is 1989 is today one of the best airlines in the world. The Taiwanese airline is also credited with pioneering the concept of ‘premium economy’

Photograph: Wikimedia Commons

7. Turkish Airlines

Turkey’s flag carrier flies to over 100 countries and over 200 cities across the world. Besides winning awards for Best Business Class Airline Catering and Best Business Class Lounge Dining Turkish Airlines has the distinction of winning the Skytrax awards for Best Airline in Europe for six consecutive years!

Photograph: Wikimedia Commons

6. Etihad Airways

The flag carrier of the UAE, is perhaps best known for its trademark Residence, an apartment in the sky, and its spectacular first class and business class suites. Unsurprisingly, Etihad also won the prize for Best First Class Seat, Best First Class Onboard Catering and Best First Class.

Photograph: Wikimedia Commons

5. All Nippon Airways

Japan’s largest international career and flying one of the world’s largest fleets of Boeing 787 Dreamliners. ANA scored high on cleanliness as well as safety and service. ANA also received the awards for the Best Airline Staff Service in Asia and World’s Best Airport Services.

Photograph: Pixabay

4. Cathay Pacific

It may have slipped a spot from last year but Cathay Pacific, with its fleet of Boeing 777-300ER jets and a very high flight frequency also won awards for Best First Class Airline Lounge and World's Best Airline Cabin Cleanliness.

Photograph: Pixabay

3. Singapore Airlines

Singapore Airlines is known for its trademark pleasant service that includes polite flight attendants, personal TVs and hot towels even in the economy class. It isn’t a surprise that besides rounding off the top three, Sing Air also took home the awards for Best Airline in Asia.

Photograph: Pixabay

2. Qatar Airways

Connective more than 125 destinations around the world, Qatar Airways is also in the process to expand its services to 50 new destinations. These include direct flights to several destinations in the USA. Qatar finished number two in Skytrax World Airline Awards for the best airlines.

Photograph: Wikimedia Commons

1. Emirates

Dubai’s Emirates has the world’s largest fleet of Airbus A380 super jumbos and Boeing 777 wide-body jets, boasts of a state-of-the-art in-flight entertainment system and even allows live television so you don’t miss out on your that game you’ve been looking forward to watching. There’s a reason why Emirates has won Skytrax’s award for best in-flight entertainment for the last 12 years and just one of the many reasons why it has been named the best airline in the world this year.

Photograph: BriYYZ/Flickr (Under Creative Commons license)

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5 best places in India to spot tigers

July 29 is International Tiger Day; here are five places in India where you can spot the big cat.

India's national animal is also an endangered one. The good news, of course, is that the number of tigers is on the increase. India is home to most of the tiger population and with concerted efforts by the government as well as some great work by the NGOs, the numbers have gone up considerably. Just ten years ago, in 2006, the tiger population in India was just 1,411. Cut to 2014 when the numbers were up to 2,226. By some estimates India is now home to 2500 tigers. By all means, these are encouraging numbers given that the tiger population of the world is about 3,890. So where can you spot the tiger in India. Keep clicking and find out!

1. Ranthambore National Park

Spread over some 1334 sq km, Rajasthan's Ranthambore National Park is also one of the best tiger reserves in the country. Popular among amateur and wildlife photographers, Ranthambore (according to the 2014 census) is home to at least 62 big cats. The park authorities organize safaris twice every day -- at 06:30 and 14:30 -- each of them lasting at least three hours.

Photograph: Karthik Dwarakanath/Flickr (Under Creative Commons license)

2. Jim Corbett National Park

The first national park in India, Jim Corbett is the reserve that inspired the famous Project Tiger programme of 1973 aimed to conserve wild tigers. Besides tigers, Jim Corbett National Park is also home to sloth bears, peacocks, langurs and at least 200-odd wild elephants.

Photograph: Wikimedia Commoms

3. Bandhavgarh National Park

Often considered to be the original home of white tigers, Bandhavgarh National Park in Madhya Pradesh is also home to the Indian bisons, sambars and cheetahs. While its tiger population is indeed the major draw of Bandhavgarh, it also has several other attractions… including shrines dating back to the 10th century!

Photograph: Julie's Hounds/Flickr (Under Creative Commons license)

4. Kanha Tiger Reserve

Kanha Tiger Reserve in Madhya Pradesh is yet another place to spot tigers in the wild. But besides tigers, Kanha is also home to at least 43 species of mammals as well as a wide variety of flora and fauna.

Photograph: Smithsonian's National Zoo/Flickr (Under Creative Commons license)

5. Bandipur National Park

Nestled in the Western Ghats, Bandipur National Park in Karnataka is also a great place to spot tigers. Not only does the park organise morning and evening safaris, it also offers accommodation in the form of lodges and eco-friendly hotels on its fringes.

Photograph: Srikanth Vk/Flickr (Under Creative Commons license)

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10 breathtaking photos of Kargil that remind us just what Indian Army fought for

July 26 is Kargil Vijay Diwas. The sleepy town has come a long way from being the site of the bloody battle to a popular tourist spot.

17 years ago, this beautiful landscape was the site of a bloody war that claimed the lives of hundreds of soldiers from India as well as Pakistan. Located near India's Line of Control or LoC, Kargil was a sleepy nondescript town that few had heard of until 1999. It was in the summer of that year that the Kargil War was fought between Indian and Pakistan. The war came to an end on July 26, 1999 after India took over command of the outposts from the Pakistani intruders and wrested Kargil back from their hands. Since then July 26 is celebrated as Kargil Vijay Diwas. Close to two decades since that day, Kargil has now become something of a tourist spot attracting lone bikers and families alike. It is impossible not to feel a shiver go down one's spine when one stands before the iconic Kargil War Memorial. In the pages to follow, we present select photographs of the landscape that our brave heroes died protecting.

We begin with this bright and colourful picture of the Kargil landscape

Next up is yet another panoramic shot of Kargil town

This photograph of River Suru (Indus) weaving through Kargil is up next

And this is the image of the iconic Kargil War Memorial

If this photo of Kargil doesn't inspire you to travel there

We're pretty sure, this one will :-)

This view of snow-clad mountains is enough to inspire wanderlust, isn't it?

Winding roads like these welcome you to this tiny town…

… that looks even more beautiful in the night!

We finally leave you with this photograph of the Indian tricolor flying high, reminding us of the sacrifices that were made to preserve this landscape.

Photographs: Wikimedia Creative Commons

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5 things we wouldn’t have without JRD Tata

From India’s first commercial airline to the world’s thinnest watch, here are five things we have JRD Tata to thank for.

July 29 in the birth anniversary of JRD Tata. JRD wore a lot of hats. He wasn’t just an industrialist he was also a keen aviator and a philanthropist. But what made JRD really stand out was his foresight. Several things that we enjoy today are all thanks to JRD’s beliefs. So what would we not have had it not been for JRD Tata?

1. Air India, India’s first commercial airline

In what is a well-documented story, JRD Tata founded the airlines that went on to be known as Air India. Founded in 1932, Tata flew its first aircraft that carried airmail from Karachi to Bombay and later continuing to Madras (present-day Chennai). Today, Air India has a fleet size of 109 aircraft, flies to 84 destinations and is India’s flag carrier airline. He is rightly called the father of Indian aviation

2. Tata Memorial, Asia’s first cancer hospital

The Tata Memorial Centre of Cancer, Research and Treatment is one of the best hospitals for cancer in the country. It is, in several ways, the final hope for several cancer patients who travel here from all corners of the country and indeed the continent. One of Tata Memoria’s specialities is acute lymphoblastic leukemia and it has a record of curing 99 per cent of the patients suffering from this particular form of cancer.

3. Titan Edge, world’s thinnest watch

Unlike Air India, Titan wasn’t the first Indian watch manufacturer. It is, however, the only one of the first three -- Allwyn and HMT being the other two -- that is still in business. Today Titan is the fifth largest watch manufacturer in the world and has the distinction of manufacturing the thinnest water-resistant watch in the world -- Titan Edge that is just 1.15 mm thick with a case thickness of 3.5 mm. As with everything else in the list, Titan too was founded by JRD Tata… albeit at the suggestion of Xerxes Desai, who headed it till his retirement.

4. Tata Nano, the cheapest car in the world

Sure, the credit for launching the much-publicised Nano goes to Ratan Tata, JRD’s successor. But none of the Tata cars we see today would have ever existed if it hadn’t been for JRD’s foresight of establishing TELCO, the company that we now know as Tata Motors, under whose roof Nano was rolled out.

5. Lakme, India’s first cosmetics brand

We bet you hadn’t known this one. The number one cosmetics brand in India may be owned by Hindustan Uniliver today but when it started out, Lakme was a 100 per cent subsidiary of Tata Oil Mills. The story of Lakme’s founding is just as fascinating. It was started in 1952 at the behest of the then prime minister, Jawaharlal Nehru who seemed concerned that Indian women were spending foreign exchange on beauty products. And so it was at his personal request that JRD started out Lakme, named after the eponymous French opera. Interestingly, opera itself has an Indian connection; it is set in India and is named after its female protagonist, Lakme, a derivation of the Sanskrit, Laxmi.