Life & Style

Indicating demand for branded private residences in the country, Four Seasons Private Residences Mumbai, perhaps the latest to have entered the ultra luxury serviced private residences market, has reported considerable success. Developers of this Worli project say over 80% of its 41 residences across 64 floors have already been sold. A spokesperson adds, “This strong demand highlights Mumbai’s enthusiasm for unparalleled living experiences.” According to real estate brokers, the price of homes in this project is about ₹1 lakh per sq ft.

As wealth accumulates at the top end of the pyramid, more private residences are entering the market in key cities.

These homes, priced between ₹5 crore and ₹99 crore for a large sea-facing house, offer ultra-luxury facilities and services at par with five-star deluxe hotels. “The growth of branded private residences in India is being fuelled by rising disposable incomes, increasing demand for differentiated luxury lifestyles, and the appeal of globally recognised names that combine exclusivity with world-class service,” says Vivek Rathi, national director-research, Knight Frank India. “High-net-worth individuals [HNIs] and non-resident Indians [NRIs] see these projects not only as status symbols but also as long-term value assets, given their higher price premiums, superior resale potential, and enduring demand in prime locations,” he adds.

Key stakeholders driving this segment include luxury developers, international hospitality groups, and lifestyle brands. For developers, the partnership brings instant credibility and premium positioning, while brands benefit from expanding their footprint into a fast-growing market.

These collaborations provide Indian buyers access to hotel-style living with curated services — spa, concierge, and housekeeping — while ensuring developers achieve premium pricing, often 25%–30% higher than comparable non-branded luxury properties.

Globally, branded residences have matured into a mainstream luxury housing category, led by cities such as Miami, Dubai, London, and Bangkok. In these markets, buyers pay an average of30%–40% price premium over comparable non-branded luxury projects, thanks to the prestige, security, and hotel-style lifestyle these properties offer. The model is particularly successful in destinations with a strong influx of international investors and lifestyle-driven buyers, according to Rathi.

Early growth phase

India, while still in its early growth phase, is rapidly emerging as one of the fastest-expanding branded residence markets. “The country’s rising base of high-net-worth individuals, aspirational demand among upwardly mobile professionals, and consistent NRI interest are driving adoption,” Rathi says. “Unlike global peers that focus heavily on leisure destinations, India’s early branded residences are concentrated in metro cities such as Mumbai, Bengaluru, Gurugram, and Pune, with secondary growth expected in leisure hubs like Goa and Udaipur. This positions India as a high-potential market, catching up with global benchmarks while offering unique cultural and locational flavours.”

Cost-wise, branded residences in the country command a 25%–30% premium over traditional luxury housing. Maintenance charges are also significantly higher than those for conventional luxury housing, reflecting the hospitality-driven operating model.

“While global leaders have set the bar for branded residences, India is now carving its niche, offering a blend of international brand prestige and local cultural resonance. As global hospitality chains expand partnerships with Indian developers, the country is steadily positioning itself on the international branded residence map,” Rathi explains.

Sudeep Bhatt, director strategy at Whiteland Corporation, which is constructing the Westin Private Residences in Gurugram, adds, “Branded residences represent the pinnacle of premium living, where a home transcends into a complete lifestyle experience. Our collaboration with Marriott International to introduce one of India’s first and largest Westin-branded Residences in Gurugram is a testament to this vision. We believe branded residences will continue to shape the future of urban living in India.”

New project

The latest to join the supply of private residences is Four Seasons Private Residences Mumbai, which will open soon. It has come up in a tie-up with Provenance Land, a real estate developer.

From expansive three-bedroom residences spanning entire floors to five- and six-bedroom duplexes, “these palatial residences will offer spacious seclusion from the vibrant energy of the city below”. Bart Carnahan, president of Global Business Development, Portfolio Management and Residential, Four Seasons, in a statement, said, “We will deliver a lifestyle that is thoughtfully curated and operated end-to-end by Four Seasons, ensuring our residents experience the exceptional experiences, world-class amenities, and personalised service that they have come to know and enjoy.”

At Four Seasons Private Residences Mumbai, homeowners will have access to their own Residents’ Club featuring a lounge and media room, a private dining room, and a fully equipped gym. For outdoor activities, residents will enjoy over an acre of green space, a meditation garden, a pickleball court, and an elevated pool with a cascading water feature, according to the hospitality company. The residences are designed by architectural firm Gensler and interior design studio Yabu Pushelberg.

In Chennai, city-based Ampa Group, a real estate player, in a tie-up with Indian Hotels Company Ltd (IHCL), is setting up Taj Sky View Hotels and Residences, an integrated development comprising 253 keys and 123 Taj-branded residences. To be operational in 2027, this will be the first Taj-branded private residence.

The residents will enjoy the signature Taj life from home, including home dining, butler service, laundry services, business centre, and on-demand housekeeping. IHCL is planning to do more such projects in various cities in India.

Advantages

Premium amenities: Branded residences offer hotel-grade services such as concierge, valet parking, housekeeping, in-residence dining, and 24/7 security. Residents also enjoy exclusive access to spas, gyms, pools, lounges, private dining, and even cinemas, either integrated with hotels or as standalone facilities. Bespoke offerings like grocery delivery, personal trainers, and pet care ensure a seamless luxury living experience aligned with global hospitality standards.

High ROI and resale value: Positioned in prime urban or resort locations, these residences benefit from brand prestige, superior maintenance, and consistent demand, leading to higher capital appreciation and rental yields. Their brand affiliation makes them easier to lease or sell at a premium.

Global brand recognition and trust: Ownership brings the assurance of quality, exclusivity, and prestige associated with world-renowned brands. This trust factor significantly enhances marketability and long-term asset value.

Foreign investor and NRI appeal: International branding appeals strongly to NRIs and global investors seeking world-class design, secure ownership, and investment-grade assets. Many projects cater specifically to UHNWIs and NRIs with globally benchmarked features, prime locations, and transparent governance.

Design excellence and brand prestige: Developed in collaboration with global ‘starchitects’ and elite design houses, these properties boast distinctive architecture, premium finishes, and attention to every detail, setting new standards for modern, upscale living.

Disadvantages

Higher cost and niche demand: Branded residences command a significant premium in both purchase price and ongoing maintenance due to luxury services and brand licensing fees. This limits the target audience to a niche ultra-luxury segment.

Brand reputation risks: The property’s value is closely tied to the brand’s public image. Any damage to the brand’s reputation, globally or locally, can directly affect resale potential and investor confidence.

Operational complexity: Developers must conform to rigorous brand standards, from design and service to upkeep. This can increase project complexity, timelines, and costs.

Limited flexibility for owners: To preserve uniformity and brand identity, owners often face restrictions on renovations, interiors, or short-term rentals, reducing personalisation and control.

High development costs: The use of premium materials, international design teams, and adherence to global luxury norms make the development process more expensive and risk-intensive.

Brands that offer private residences

Hospitality brands

Four Seasons Private Residences

in Bengaluru (status: almost complete) and Mumbai (status: complete)

Ritz-Carlton Residences in Pune (status: NA)

JW Marriott Residences in Bengaluru (status: NA)

Westin Residences in Gurugram (status: to be completed in 2031)

Taj-branded residences in Chennai (status: to be completed 2027) and Mumbai (status: operational)

Leela Residences in Bengaluru (status: complete) and Delhi (status: likely completed)

Conrad Hotels in Pune (status: complete)

St. Regis Residences in Delhi (status: likely completed) and Mumbai (status: complete)

Waldorf Astoria Residences in Jaipur (status: to be completed in 2027-28)

Luxury lifestyle brands

Armani Casa in Mumbai (status: complete)

Versace Home in Mumbai (status: complete)

Trump Towers in Mumbai (status: complete) Pune (status: complete), and Delhi NCR (status: scheduled in 2025).

YOO Residences in Gurgaon (status: operational) and Odisha (status: NA)

Luxury Lifestyle Brands

Armani Casa in Mumbai (status: complete)

Versace Home in Mumbai (status: complete)

Trump Towers in Mumbai (status: complete), Pune (status: complete) , and Delhi NCR (status: scheduled in 2025).

YOO Residences in Gurgaon (status: operational) and Odisha (status: NA)

Sijya
| Photo Credit: Special arrangement

World on wheels @ Embarq

Sujal Patwardhan and Medha Joseph went on a self-drive expedition from India to Morocco a decade ago. The duo covered 23,000 kilometres across 15 countries in 57 days. They returned and started Embarq to organise similar road trips.

Travellers on a trip by Embarq in Peru
| Photo Credit:
Special Arrangement

“We were smitten by self-drive travel… the sheer pleasure of experiencing a place while driving through a country, the local culture that one encounters, the various things one experiences and how you discover yourself during this journey,” says Sujal, a former finance expert.

Medha, a former investment banking professional, says their trips are designed for a wide range of people including families, solo travellers, young adventurers, and women. The latter, she says, comes under The Bold Route series, a recent initiative of Embarq, kickstarted to cater to the rising tribe of women travellers. Upcoming trips in the series include Hornbill Festival in Nagaland in December, and a drive from Kutch to Kibithoo in Arunachal Pradesh in early 2026.

The Maori experience in New Zealand
| Photo Credit:
Special Arrangement

Taking us through the process of curating a trip, Sujal says research involves curating offbeat experiences, road conditions and connectivity, logistics of arranging self-drive cars, among other factors. “Once the destination is finalised we thoroughly recce the route which includes evaluating stays, pit stops, experiences and other requirements before we announce the trip,” she says, adding that they have done approximately 20 trips in India so far, and over 75 internationally.

At the moment, Zanskar, Northeast India, Mongolia, Scotland and Peru are high on the popularity charts, says Medha. “We recently completed our first edition of the All Women K2K 2025 expedition, where a convoy of 25 Skoda cars and 50 women across India drove from Kashmir to Kanyakumari in 10 days,” she says. Upcoming trips at Embarq include Kyrgyzstan, Peru, Patagonia, New Zealand, and Russia.

Luxury self-drive expeditions in India begin at 1.5 lakh per person, and international expeditions begin at 2.5 lakh. Details on embarq.in

A visually impaired traveller on a holiday by Planet Abled
| Photo Credit:
Special Arrangement

Travel for all @ Planet Abled 

“I never went for a holiday as a child,” says Neha Arora, “Both my  parents, now in their 70s and 80s, are persons with disabilities, and even they had not gone on a holiday until a few years ago.” 

Neha shares that when she started working at an IT company in 2007, she saved money, and went for her first family holiday to Tamil Nadu and Kerala. “Only to realise that there was poor physical infrastructure, inaccessible communication channels, zero digital accessibility, and societal stigma. No one expects disabled people to travel assuming they don’t work or they don’t have money. After a series of such unpleasant experiences, my parents refused to travel again but I started looking for solutions.” Prompted by her personal journey, Neha started Planet Abled in 2016 to ensure people with disabilities can travel sans restrictions with non-disabled individuals. 

Neha started Planet Abled in 2016 to ensure people with disabilities can travel sans restrictions with non-disabled individuals
| Photo Credit:
Special Arrangement

For research, Neha found herself spending nights at multiple airports to count the number of travellers with disabilities. While she found travel companies that were single disability-focussed, Neha wanted to create an inclusive platform. “If your disability decides who you travel with, when you travel and where, it is discrimination. Why shouldn’t a person with one or more disabilities have the freedom of choice when it comes to travelling?” asks Neha, who has catered to travellers with mobility impairments; visual impairments; cognitive, psychosocial, intellectual and hidden disabilities; people who are neurodivergent or people with dementia, among others.

Top destinations in India include Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Rajasthan, Srinagar, Punjab, among others, and international favourites include Nepal, Sri Lanka, Thailand, Vietnam, Singapore, Malaysia, Europe, and China. 

Planet Abled has catered to travellers with mobility impairments; visual impairments; cognitive, psychosocial, intellectual and hidden disabilities, among others
| Photo Credit:
Special Arrangement

Neha explains how, as a society, we are either too sympathetic towards disabled people or apathetic. “Non-disabled have their internalised biases and prejudices and of course there is little awareness in our society about the appropriate body language and verbal language. Being in an inclusive group makes them realise that communicating with them in a dignified and empathetic manner is what matters to make everyone feel included,” she says, adding how a few non-disabled travellers have come back to Planet Abled to make their offices accessible and hire people with disabilities.

A signboard in braille
| Photo Credit:
Special Arrangement

Today, Neha operates the company from offices in India and Austria, and offers travel-related services including designing trips, hotel bookings, storytellers and guides, transport services, and trained service buddies “to assist travellers with their routine activities”. “We take into account accessibility needs of each individual and design the trip accordingly. Destination development includes auditing the destination for accessibility status of diverse accessibility needs, training the staff, guides, drivers and stakeholders at all touch points of a traveller’s journey,” says Neha, who has also catered to organisations such as Cricket Australia, Human Rights Watch, and Indian Paralympic Association.

A traveller on holiday with Planet Abled
| Photo Credit:
Special Arrangement

Travelling in India with a disability is very much possible, but is definitely very expensive, she shares. “You need to stay at four or five star hotels because only they have wheelchair accessible rooms, and you can book a private disabled-friendly vehicle, and also have trained staff available.” The Colosseum in Rome, and The Acropolis in Greece are wheelchair accessible, but “our Taj Mahal is still not. The tourism industry does not need separate travel companies for disabled people. We will have to mainstream accessibility so that people with disabilities have the freedom of choice,” concludes Neha, who has upcoming trips planned to Ranthambhore, Kerala, Bali, and South Africa.

planetabled.com

A senior citizen on holiday with WalkAbout
| Photo Credit:
Special Arrangement

Senior spree @ WalkAbout

If you are a senior citizen, or know someone who is, this virtual social learning platform organises much more than holidays. Launched in 2019, WalkAbout, previously known as GetSetUp, was launched in 2019. “We help older adults use technology in ways that enhance daily life and open new possibilities,” says co-founder Deval Delivala, who started curating holidays in 2023.

A group of tourists with WalkAbout
| Photo Credit:
Special Arrangement

In India, Deval says, they focus on destinations that offer a mix of heritage, Nature, and wellness. “Internationally, we prioritise locations welcoming to older travellers, factoring in direct flights, senior-friendly accommodations, and well-paced itineraries,” she adds. “Dubai stood out for our community; sightseeing spots across the city had wheelchair access, well-maintained restrooms, and smooth transportation options, making it easy for older adult travellers to move around comfortably. Our upcoming trip to Japan in 2026 has been curated to prioritise a similar experience.”

A group of tourists with WalkAbout
| Photo Credit:
Special Arrangement

Given the lack of adequate infrastructure in India for such groups, how does the team navigate these challenges? “Our trip curation process begins with comprehensive research into each destination, identifying potential accessibility barriers in accommodations, sightseeing spots, and local transportation. Hotels with senior-friendly amenities are chosen, and the itineraries are well-paced with ample rest periods.” For example, their holiday to Bhandardara, Maharashtra, to see the fireflies was tweaked for seniors. “Typically, this experience is designed for younger travellers who stay overnight in tents. We ensured our travellers had accommodation off-site with proper restrooms.”

An elderly client participates in a fashion show on a trip to Goa
| Photo Credit:
Special Arrangement

The travel industry has slowly begun recognising that today’s 60-plus travellers are fundamentally different from previous generations, she says. “Many destinations and service providers now offer age-friendly amenities such as wheelchair-accessible facilities and specialised medical support. However, to truly serve this demographic, tour operators and hospitality businesses must move beyond generic offerings and create curated travel experiences that are aligned with the evolving expectations of this generation,” says Deval, who is now planning trips to the Andamans (October 10-15) and Tadoba (November 15-17).

Unlike other groups, such trips are more than just holidays for seniors. “At a stage in life when many feel increasingly isolated, our trips offer a chance to belong, explore, find new connections, and embrace new possibilities,” adds Deval, recalling their all-women’s trip to Sikkim in 2023. “A guest joined us after losing her husband in 2019, having spent months in isolation. On this journey, she connected with several women who had experienced similar losses. What began as a trip transformed into a healing experience of rediscovering joy, companionship, and shared strength,” she says.

India trips start at ₹25,000 for three-day experiences, while international journeys are priced upwards of ₹1,00,000-plus for week-long adventures. Details on mywalkabout.in

A guest on holiday with The Soluna Experience
| Photo Credit:
Special Arrangement

Women first @ The Soluna Experience 

It was during the lockdown years that Mathai George Tharakan — who had recently moved to Goa — started hosting workout sessions for friends and family. A former marketing professional, Mathai and his wife Ruth D’Roza found these sessions as “a way for us to connect with others and beat the cabin fever we all experienced during the lockdown.” Through word of mouth this movement quickly grew into Mathai professionally coaching people. “Talks about future travel plans were a frequent subject of discussion with clients, especially women who wanted to travel solo,” says Mathai, adding that busy schedules, safety concerns posed challenges for them. 

The Soluna Experience currently offers trips in Goa and Kenya
| Photo Credit:
Special Arrangement

“For us, travel has been our biggest teacher. It broadened our minds and gave us perspective on how to be global citizens,” says Ruth, a former HR professional, who kickstarted The Soluna Experience (Sol meaning sun, Luna is moon in Latin) in 2023 to fill in the gap for women travellers. “For years, most group travel organisations catered predominantly to the 50-plus age group. Meanwhile, younger travellers today have embraced the backpacking culture, redefining exploration as an immersive, independent experience,” she says. 

A cycling expedition in the Western Ghats
| Photo Credit:
Special Arrangement

The duo currently offers trips in Goa and Kenya, and during a recent trip to the latter, Mathai recalls one of the highlights was “a plane that we chartered to fly out of Maasai Mara directly to the coastline of Kenya. It was truly a one-of-a-kind experience.” Over the past three months, the duo have been curating private journeys for solo travellers, couples, and families across Kenya and Tanzania. “Thus, giving our guests access to one of Nature’s most spectacular phenomena, The Great Migration, from wildebeest river crossings in Maasai Mara to witnessing lion prides on the hunt,” he adds.

Guests on holiday with The Soluna Experience 
| Photo Credit:
Special Arrangement

Mathai says they are seeing a growing demand for bespoke holidays. “In July, we hosted a monsoon getaway in Goa, and in October, we return to Kenya with a group of 10 solo women travellers.” With plans to include more destinations over the next few months, Mathai explains how every aspect of their curation is personally tested and experienced by the duo. “We spend time staying in the properties we choose, research and vet the restaurants we include, experience the adventure activities, transport partners and fitness or wellness providers we choose to work with,” he says.

While Southeast Asia and Sri Lanka “continue to have a big moment”, Ruth says their focus is to unlock destinations such as Brazil, Japan, and Morocco “that are generally hard to access for solo women travellers”. 

A trek curated by The Soluna Experience
| Photo Credit:
Special Arrangement

Having said that, has India’s poor reputation in terms of women’s safety made it harder for them to convince travellers? “As women we’re used to looking over our shoulders, double checking the locks on our doors, and reading every review before we make a travel decision irrespective of where we are in the world. At Soluna, we’ve created numerous touchpoints throughout our process — such as personalised group calls prior to the trip — so that travellers know we’re real people.”

The duo has two more trips to Kenya (₹3.75 lakh per person) lined up this year, and about six trips to Goa (₹70,000 per person) during the monsoon. thesolunaexperience.com/

A family on holiday with Heart and Soil
| Photo Credit:
Special Arrangement

Kid central @ Heart and Soil 

When Mumbai-based Nehal Shah’s son was two-years-old, she realised how “disconnected urban childhood had become from Nature”. “I wanted him to have the childhood I had; sans gadgets,” says the former media professional who put out a post on Facebook in 2016 seeking like-minded parents to organise an outdoor trip with their children. “Soon, the community grew and I began organising trips in the State, Goa, Gujarat, and neighbouring areas. Our experiences are built around four key pillars: Nature, culture and life-skills, adventure, and wildlife,” says Nehal, whose popular trips include astronomy and star gazing, hikes, treks, campouts, flamingo safaris, farm tours among others. 

Popular trips at Heart and Soil include astronomy and star gazing, hikes, treks, campouts, flamingo safaris, farm tours
| Photo Credit:
Special Arrangement

Detailing their quest to curate offbeat trips, Nehal says their Goa holiday is popular even in peak summer. “The itinerary has no beaches. We get travellers to stay close to a wildlife reserve and all the activities such as hikes, trails, etc. are organised there,” she says. While group tours at Heart and Soil have had up to 40 members, hikes are capped at 20 as they need personalised attention, says Nehal.

A snapshot of Heart and Soil’s recently curated Bhutan trip
| Photo Credit:
Special Arrangement

This May marked their first international trip to Bhutan. “This wasn’t the usual itinerary where you check off sights from your to-do-list. We included forest hikes, monastery visits, traditional music and dance performances, hands-on cultural activities, and farm stays,” says Nehal, who quit her full-time job last year to dedicate her time to Heart and Soil.

A child on a trip curated by Heart and Soil
| Photo Credit:
Special Arrangement

When it comes to age, Nehal believes the earlier, the better. “We’ve had toddlers as young as 1.5 years join our hikes and even a six-month-old camper. This has reinforced our belief that children are highly adaptable, and the real apprehensions often lie with the parents. While some of our experiences have age criteria based on safety and feasibility, the most important factor is the parents’ willingness to embrace the outdoors with their children,” says Nehal, who has upcoming trips planned to Pench (October 2-4), Meghalaya and Kaziranga (October 18-24), and Little Rann of Kutch (November 1-2).

Day trips start at ₹2,000; and multi-day immersive journeys are priced upwards of ₹20,000 for a parent and child. @heartandsoil.in on Instagram 

The last time the mountain ranges encircling Kashmir were meticulously mapped on foot was between 1822-23 by William Moorcroft, a British veterinarian working for the East India Company. Cut to 2025, Mahmood A Shah, a passionate trekker in his early fifties, has become the first local to measure the Great Himalayas and Lesser Himalayas by circumambulating the ranges on foot. His coffee table book, Valleys of Jammu & Kashmir, released in July this year is a peak-by-peak, pass-by-pass, meadow-by-meadow and lake-by-lake account of what is hidden up in the mysterious and imposing mountain ranges of Kashmir.

“When I was a school-going kid. I would always stare out from the school bus window at the peaks and ranges following us in a distance. I was always curious to know what was hidden up in these mighty peaks and the layers of mountain ranges. I wondered how the world looked from these towering peaks. It took me 25 years of trekking to realise the dream,” says Shah, a bureaucrat currently working as Managing Director, Kashmir Power Distribution Corporation Limited (KPDCL). He travelled anti-clockwise from the Pir Panchal range of lower Himalayas to the higher Himalayas. 

The author, Mahmood Ahmad Shah at different high attitude points in Kashmir during his treks.
| Photo Credit:
SPECIAL ARRANGEMENT

The book has 114 pictures of high-altitude and untouched passes, serene and bewitching meadows and jewel-like lakes perched above 3,000 meters above the sea level. “I have featured 54 high altitude lakes, many rarely-travelled and unknown to even locals. I have been to 112 alpine lakes. There is mystery attached with the higher glaciated reaches, as new lakes emerge and many vanish,” says Shah, who did his schooling from missionary Tyndale Biscoe School in Srinagar.

He had to trek the Tulian Lake, an alpine lake above 3,684 meters the Anantnag-Pahalgam axis, thrice to take pictures. “Overcast skies and foggy weather did not allow me to capture the grandeur of the lake,” says Shah. The little-known lakes covered in the book include Bodh Sar, Tri Sar, Laksukh Sar, Bhag Sar, and Katori Sar.

With the dream to demystify the mountains, Shah’s book provides the longitude and latitude of destinations recorded on Global Positioning System (GPS) and the hours required to scale a peak or high-altitude lake. “This information will make it easier for prospective trekkers to reach these destinations now,” says Shah. The book is interspersed with anecdotes and musings about the destination to bring the district flavour to readers.

Mahmood Ahmad Shah’s Valleys of Jammu & Kashmir
| Photo Credit:
SPECIAL ARRANGEMENT

One of his memorable and picturesque treks is from Kishtwar in J&K into Kargil in Ladakh. This trans-Himalayan trek route covers more than 85 kilometres and is home to tough passes and peaks full of rugged and slipping stones. Zorawar Singh, a Dogra general, chose the same route to conquer Ladakh in 1834. “This trek has rare passes like Batkul Pass. It requires crossing glaciers, which is relatively easy, and rubble walking, very difficult. It is dotted with lakes, a blue colour spectacle when the skies are clear,” says Shah. 

An avid trekker, Shah first tried his hands at scaling mountains in 1988 during his college days. “I went up to the Amarnath shrine for the first time. It gave me life lessons. Never go ill-prepared into the mountains, as they throw risks. One bumps into the unknown. Weather is mercurial in the mountains. It gets hostile when you expect it least. A sunny day can end up in a snow blizzard. There is something unique about people living in the upper reaches. They live in narrow gorges with big hearts. They readily offer you tea as you knock on their door for shelter during inclement weather,” says Shah.

What makes the book remarkable is also for the fact that Shah trekked into mountains at the peak of militancy, when gunmen would equally find it safe to stay in the upper reaches of mountains. This precisely was the reason that trekking came to a grinding halt in Kashmir, especially after militants kidnapped six foreign tourists and their two guides in the Lidderwat area of Pahalgam, Anantnag, on July 4, 1995. “I have been lucky to survive all kinds of threats during my mountain escapades,” he says. 

The author, Mahmood Ahmad Shah at different high attitude points in Kashmir during his treks.
| Photo Credit:
SPECIAL ARRANGEMENT

The author is sad for also being witness to changing flora and fauna of meadows, depleting sights of hangul and markhor in upper reaches. “Overgrazing and human interference has started disturbing the landscape and animal sights too. Forest cover has disappeared, deforestation has increased, excessive grazing and regeneration is not happening. It’s sad to witness the decline,” says Shah. “Footfall needs to be controlled if these meadows, passes and lakes have to survive in the long run,” he adds.  

Animal presence and flower spread have always been parameters of the health of mountains in Kashmir. The 360-degree panoramic view provided by the author in the book is fast becoming a bible for trekkers in Kashmir. Garry Weare, an Australian trekker and author of books like A Long Walk in the Himalaya: A Trek from the Ganges to Kashmir, says the images captured by Shah were only possible “when the Gods were in complete alignment with of vantage points”. He said the images reflect the raw, untamed beauty of these ancient peaks, passes, and lakes, steeped in legends almost as ancient as the mountains themselves, says Weare.

He says Shah’s photography constantly reminds us that Kashmir is not a wilderness area. “Pilgrims, armies, and traders have crossed the high passes Kashmir for centuries,” Weare adds.

As the book takes us away from the traditional flower beds and snow-laden slopes of Pahalgam, Gulmarg and Sonamarg, Shah says there is reason to be on top of mountains: to get high. “I don’t drink or smoke. I only high I get is from the mountains. The more I go into the mountains the more happy I feel,” he adds.

Valleys of Jammu & Kashmir is available on Amazon and prominent book stores, like Gulshan Book Store, in Srinagar. It is priced at ₹3,500.

Published – September 05, 2025 02:33 pm IST

Heading out of Chennai for an exclusive event

 On September 7, a klatch of stargazers from the Chennai Astronomy Club (CAC) who are on first-name terms with each other, would decamp, telescopes in tow, to a farm in Maduranthakam, a two-hour’s drive from Chennai, for a Blood Moon watch. No portal of entry offered to outsiders; it is going to be an in-group gathering. “This time, we had to keep it small and exclusive to our members,” says Siva, one of the founders of CAC, citing police permission issues. In characteristic CAC style, the Blood Moon watch would be preceded by a talk, tomes of theory packed into it. Following the watch, members would rest at the farm and turn back towards Chennai late Monday morning.

To still hope one could horn in on this group’s Blood Moon watch party would be to cry for the moon. This door is firmly shut on outsiders for now, but not always. One can catch up with CAC on its regular monthly star parties. 

Founded in 2013 by two friends, Siva and Ram Priyadarshini, Chennai Astronomy Club (CAC) was initially a Facebook group. “Astronomy is not something to do alone,” says Siva, a software engineer now and a star gazer since age four. “The real fun comes from sharing it with other people”. Over the years, engagement levels have gone through the skies. There is not a quiet moment under the starry skies for CAC members, the chatter in its 375-member WhatsApp group being incessant even when it is “total cloudout”, a term denoting a situation where the sky that has nothing to offer a pair of stargazing eyes. Around 50 of these members choose to be more than backyard stargazers: they step out for star parties, night camps and meetups. There is no membership fee. Visual astronomers, astrophotographers and DIY telescope tinkerers rub shoulders with curious first-timers. The club does not gatekeep — if one is eager, they are in. However, the size of a gathering is predicated upon the availability of experienced observers. “If we have five experienced observers, we can handle around 30 participants” Siva explains.

The group heads to Javadhi Hills, Tada, and places on the outer rim of South Chennai, where the night sky is darker. The Chennai’s sky with its Bortle Scale rating of 8 or 9 is hardly stargazer-friendly due to greater light pollution. The lower the number is on the Bortle Scale, the darker and more stargazer-friendly the night sky is. 

Costs are modest but necessary — a typical overnight camp, including stay and food, might set the participant back by ₹1000, with an extra Rs.200 for outreach activities. “We run at cost, sometimes even dipping into personal funds to cover last-minute changes,” Siva admits.

Workshops for beginners roll out every April and May, followed by astrophotography sessions six months later. Monthly star parties keep the conversation going. There are also plans for sidewalk astronomy on Chennai’s beaches — the plans are subject to fording bureaucratic hurdles. Their tools range from sophisticated automated telescopes to simpler manual ones, and newcomers are always urged to try the club’s equipment first before investing. “Telescopes are not cheap, so we suggest that they explore our telescopes,” says Siva. 

As part of an outreach initiative, CAC has set up telescopes at government schools in Karaikudi and Tiruvarur.

To join CAC as well as be a part of its WhatsApp group, head to  https://forum.chennaiastronomyclub.org

A watch in Choolaimedu that is open to outsiders

Sky Secrets is hosting a Blood Moon Night at Choolaimedu from 10:30 pm (September 7) to 2:30 am (September 8). Six telescopes have already been assigned Blood Moon watch duties. The cupboard would be disturbed and more telescopes pulled out if registrations shoot up.

“We want to ensure that everyone who signs up for the watch party gets to see the Blood Moon clearly,” says Sendhil Madhavan, founder of Sky Secrets.

For those who prefer not to jostle for telescopes, Sky Secrets has a backup — its digital telescope will live-stream the eclipse onto a projector.

The evening begins with a short briefing on the science of the Blood Moon before eyes turn skyward. Registration is ₹499 per head. The registration form will be open till 10 p.m. on September 7. Walk-ins are welcome, but prior registration is recommended. “It helps us plan better, especially in terms of equipment and safety,” explains Sendhil.

Sendhil Madhavan holds a day job as engineer, and his spare time is focussed skyward. It was only a matter of time before he founded a entity such as Sky Secrets. The idea of Sky Secrets began to glow bright following a stargazing trip Sendhil went on, along with his friend Subhash, a photography enthusiast. “We started with just one telescope,” Sendhil recalls.

Sky Secrets runs weekend workshops from Choolaimedu, priced at ₹300 per head, offering guided explorations of the moon, planets and nebulas. Lunar gazing during the first quarter or full moon each month; solar gazing sessions are held every weekend, focusing on sunspots. Sky Secrets organises sessions offering a primer on astrophotography. Events are announced a few days in advance, depending on weather, with registrations being carried out through Google Forms. The Planetary Parade of December 2024 became a defining moment, when nearly 500 visitors, frustrated by endless queues at Chennai’s planetarium, chose a rooftop session in Kolathur instead.

Since then, Sky Secrets has expanded its focus, collaborating with colleges such as Women’s Christian College and DG Vaishnav College and schools such as Vidya Mandir in Mylapore for solar gazing sessions.

Their outreach, under the banner Aagasam, in collaboration with NGO Integrity People, brought telescopes to Pulicat villages, Chengalpattu, and rural rooftops, introducing astronomy to communities with little access to such experiences. Since December, Sky Secrets has completed outreach sessions in six locations and they are covering more surface area.

Their workshops aim at teaching enthusiasts how to assemble a telescope from scratch, clean lenses using collimators, understand different mounts, and calibrate instruments for sharper viewing. It offers students a structured three-month internship, complete with certification. The team is also fuelling a volunteer-led project to build a radio telescope prototype aimed at mapping the Milky Way, with pilot tests planned in the Javadhi Hills. To join Sky Secrets’ WhatsApp group, call 79045 35808 or send a message on Instagram at @skysecrets.sendil

Published – September 05, 2025 02:21 pm IST

The government’s decision to overhaul the Goods and Services Tax (GST) regime from 22 September 2025 is more than a technical exercise in taxation. For India’s auto industry, it is a reset button that will change showroom conversations, influence purchase decisions, and redefine festive season sales. As with any shake-up in policy, there are clear winners, some losers, and a few surprises along the way.

EVs continue to benefit from the 5% GST rate, reinforcing the push for cleaner mobility in India’s fast-growing electric vehicle market.
| Photo Credit:
Special Arrangement

At the heart of the change lies a bold rebalancing. Small cars and motorcycles up to 350cc will now attract 18% GST, a cut from the earlier 28%. This is a significant ten-point drop in a country where affordability defines demand, and where a marginal difference in on-road prices can make or break a buying decision.

A bold rebalancing

Larger vehicles, including big SUVs and premium sedans, have been pulled into a flat 40% slab, replacing the earlier 28% GST plus compensation cess that often pushed the overall tax incidence close to 50%. Motorcycles above 350cc, however, take a hit, moving from roughly 31% tax to a hefty 40%. Meanwhile, electric vehicles continue to enjoy their privileged 5% rate, a clear reminder that the government still views them as the future.

Compact SUVs get cheaper

Take the Renault Kiger, one of the most accessible compact SUVs on the market. Under the old structure, a model with a base price of about ₹7 lakh carried ₹1.96 lakh in GST at the 28% rate. Under the revised 18%, that tax drops to ₹1.26 lakh, saving the buyer around ₹70,000. For a young family making the leap from a hatchback, or a first-time SUV buyer weighing their options, that’s a saving with real psychological heft.

The compact SUV becomes nearly ₹70,000 cheaper under the revised 18% GST slab, boosting its appeal for first-time SUV buyers.
| Photo Credit:
Special Arrangement

The story is similar but amplified with the new Mahindra Thar Roxx, the latest addition to the brand’s lifestyle SUV portfolio. Priced at around ₹13 lakh before taxes, the Thar previously bore an effective tax load of nearly 48%. With the new flat 40% slab, the ex-showroom price comes down by roughly a lakh. For an SUV that already sells as much on its image as on its ability, the lower price tag strengthens its aspirational pull just as festive demand builds.

Two-wheelers: winners and losers

On the two-wheeler side, the policy makes a clear distinction between commuter-friendly models and aspirational machines. The Royal Enfield Bullet 350, a bike that has symbolised motorcycling for generations, falls in the sub-350cc bracket and thus directly benefits from the GST cut. A Bullet costing around ₹2 lakh now becomes about ₹20,000 cheaper, a saving that will resonate strongly in semi-urban and rural markets where the bike’s cult status is already entrenched.

The iconic motorcycle gets ₹20,000 cheaper, a move expected to resonate strongly in semi-urban and rural markets.
| Photo Credit:
Special Arrangement

But the Bullet’s bigger siblings don’t share its good fortune. The Royal Enfield Interceptor 650 and other motorcycles above 350cc shift into the 40% slab, raising their effective prices by close to ₹30,000. This might not dissuade seasoned enthusiasts, but for younger buyers eyeing a first big bike, the increase could be the difference between upgrading now or holding off. Manufacturers and dealers will need to counter this with finance schemes, bundled accessories, or clever marketing to keep momentum alive.

Mass market momentum

The GST reset also has carries wider implications. Small cars and commuter bikes, the backbone of Indian mobility, are now significantly more affordable. Maruti Suzuki, Hyundai, Tata, Hero, Honda, and Bajaj are expected to seize this opportunity with aggressive campaigns, positioning themselves as brands that not only offer value but also pass on tax benefits to the customer. The luxury segment, while also benefitting from lower taxation, will see a different effect. Buyers at this level are less price-sensitive, but a few lakhs shaved off a premium SUV or sedan makes for an easier conversation at the dealership. Expect the likes of Mercedes-Benz, BMW, and Audi to reposition their entry-level models with sharper pricing.

For the auto industry as a whole, this policy arrives at the right time. The festive season has always been the heartbeat of annual sales, and the prospect of lower sticker prices across high-volume segments will inject much-needed energy into a market still balancing rising input costs and global uncertainties. Electric vehicles, meanwhile, continue to enjoy the lowest tax rate at 5%, reinforcing the long-term strategic push towards cleaner mobility, even if infrastructure and range limitations still act as handbrakes on widespread adoption.

Ultimately, this GST reset feels less like bureaucratic tinkering and more like a deliberate gearshift. By easing the tax burden where India buys the most, and maintaining a progressive structure on aspirational purchases, the government has delivered a policy that should spur demand without looking regressive. If manufacturers move swiftly to reflect the savings in their price lists, dealerships across the country could see a surge in bookings as Navratri and Diwali approach.

GST cuts make India’s most popular cars and bikes more affordable, driving momentum where it matters most.
| Photo Credit:
Special Arrangement

For once, tax policy aligns neatly with market sentiment. It’s as if the government has dropped the clutch at just the right moment, giving India’s auto sector the torque it needs to surge ahead into the festive quarter. On that note, hold off your car or motorcycle purchase till September 22 and wait for the revised rates to come into play along with festive season discounts and deals to get the maximum bang for your buck!

with inputs from Siddhartha Sharma

Motorscribes, in association with The Hindu, brings you the latest in cars and bikes. Follow them on Instagram on @motorscribes

Published – September 05, 2025 11:58 am IST

Dogs being fed at Kengeri in Bengaluru
| Photo Credit:
SUDHAKARA JAIN

Dr Nishant Kumar, co-founder and chief scientist of the Thinkpaws Sustainability Research Foundation
| Photo Credit:
Special Arrangement

Animal rights activists protesting against the apex court order on stray dogs at Jantar Mantar
| Photo Credit:
SHASHI SHEKHAR KASHYAP

What do you think about the recent Supreme Court directive on stray dogs?

As a citizen, I would not expect the Supreme Court to intervene in such situations;principally, it needs robust scientific management that informs and facilitates better coexistence.

Historically, animals have been viewed from utilitarian benchmarks and/or as passive, something to be handled or managed – perspectives that could give way to new ethical and jurisprudential benchmarks.

I believe this swift action from the Supreme Court is based on valid sets of public or individual concerns/litigations. But coexistence conundrums are not new. The Delhi High Court has issued multiple legislative directions since 2008 regarding the creation of feeding platforms, mostly ineffective, because of their basis on human emotions. Animals don’t follow the idea of feeding platforms or langar.

As human beings, we have historically had a complex relationship with various animals; many are now considered “pests”, including the rock pigeon and macaques. They have coexisted with us and there is a strong cultural connection associated with feeding. How do we address India’s stray dogs, considering this aspect?

There is a famous line in jurisprudence saying that you have the right to (freely) swing your fist, but that right stops where my nose starts. Perhaps this may address the debate on how we should treat animals, considering the implications it might have on human/nonhuman well-being. In this case, the idea of “a nose” or discomfort with respect to what/where you are feeding, which creates issues, requires predictive scientific and technological interference.

Furthermore, human and nonhuman populations, as well as waste piles, have skyrocketed. Rich habitat/food resource pool of this kind in a limited space affects and regulates interfaces and mutual behaviour, shaping dog populations, as driven by local environments.

Scientists know animals better than we did 100 years ago, which informs how our health requirements are invariably tied with nonhumans and the environment (remember COVID-19). Modern perspectives need to evaluate/guide the concept of whether, where, and whom to feed, collectively shaped by the government, civil society researchers, and administrators. We surely have the means to channel the concerns and emotions people have for animals differently. This, for example, is visible in zoos that encourage people to adopt animals via donations. In the same way, if we have a better way of extending a similar kind of relationship to dogs, with evidence-based use of donation for well-being and interactions, shaping actual benefit for urban animals is not far off.

Could you talk about some of the key findings in your research?

Our research has allowed us to understand that each set of these breeding social units (dogs are social animals) is tuned to its local environment. Like people in X part of Delhi or Y part of Mumbai, dogs are also tuned to their local environment and make localised adjustments. When you have animals that are localised within their social and breeding units, (futile) attempts to manage by random relocations and cross-pairings have implications on conflicts within or across species, causing injuries/diseases.

Clearly, until we develop and achieve sanitary waste disposal practices that justify the absence of animals from the streets, their long-standing scavenging services are helpful. Meanwhile, we could use science to “engineer” where we want these services and avoid situations where it begets conflicts/diseases. And that can only happen through long-term research, which triangulates behaviour, demography and cognition — in other words, how animals respond by processing site-specific information.

Do we have a workable solution that considers both animal rights and human safety?

We are incorrectly conceptualising solutioning as a monolith, while dealing with animals that are conscious living beings, maintaining social systems tied to humans. The best way forward will require collaboration among stakeholders representing diverse ethical and scientific perspectives; this will shape a conversational language that fosters mutual tolerance for disagreements, while devising effective management interventions. 

Dialogues shall enable understanding of complex human-animal interfaces, complemented by multiple human/nonhuman stakeholders. Unless such practices regularly guide day-to-day discourse, we will continue to argue and enact reactive measures from individuals/organisations. These dogged situations represent the diversity of emotions people exhibit towards animals, which can’t be fathomed under right vs. wrong or other dichotomies (absolute removal vs. coexistence in streets).

Transdisciplinary science can effectively help us develop a common language, with its ability to incorporate constant course correction, informed by objective assessments of dynamic challenges like coexistence in a changing world. 

Indians possibly have the best bandwagon of cultural emotions and tolerance towards animals, but we need to board the bandwagon of science soon. This will guide better solutions, supported by inclusive discussions.

On the ‘Credit Cards India’ subreddit, a user writes, “Lost my job, ₹80k in credit card debt, no income. What are my options?” Another says, “Drowning in credit card debt (ICICI, Axis, HDFC, Federal) — no income, no support. Please help.” A third asks, “Struggling with EMIs. Is foreclosure a good idea?” These are just a few of the hundreds of desperate posts that expose the harsh reality behind India’s growing financial aspirations.

Living on credit

Credit card debt is no longer a silent crisis. Last year alone, defaults in India surged 28%, touching ₹6,742 crore. This sharp rise reflects not just poor budgeting or overspending, but a deeper shift: more Indians are relying on credit not for convenience, but simply to keep up. It’s a mirror to our insecurities and aspirations.

Whether it’s a lavish wedding, the latest iPhone on EMI, or an international holiday “because all our friends are doing it”, our appetite for consumption is increasingly driven by borrowed money. With ₹2.9 lakh crore in dues and ₹10.5 crore credit cards in use as per RBI, India’s credit-driven spending is at its highest. Even UPI-linked credit card payments crossed ₹63,825 crore by late 2024. The numbers show a disturbing shift — debt is now a normal way to spend.

What’s fuelling the crisis?

Young India’s debt spiral stems from a lack of awareness about how credit cards actually work. They’re being marketed to 20-somethings as a ticket to the life they think they deserve — no caveats, no warnings. Unsurprisingly, Gen Z now makes up 41% of all first-time borrowers, according to CIBIL. As a country, we’ve gone from being debt-averse to debt-optimistic, from avoiding impulse buys to swiping without a second thought, and there’s no middle ground in sight.

Young India’s debt spiral stems from a lack of awareness
| Photo Credit:
Getty Images/iStockPhoto

It’s important to understand that cheap credit isn’t just filling income gaps or helping in emergencies — it’s now shaping entire identities. An iPhone becomes a symbol of success. A vacation on EMI is seen as proof of “work-life balance”. Weddings, home upgrades, and even education choices are often driven more by perception than prudence.

The true cost of credit

For many, the wake-up call isn’t dramatic — it’s a text from the bank. Minimum due: ₹12,000. Interest charged: ₹3,500. Before long, the interest is more than the amount spent, since credit card rates can be 42% to 56% a year.

As someone who often talks about personal finance with people, I see that credit card debt, though common, isn’t taken seriously enough because shame and guilt keep people silent. If you’re in the red, know this, guilt won’t help, but a plan will. The system may be built to keep you swiping, but there are ways to take back control.

Debt detox

Here are four strategies to help you break up with debt and get your money, and peace of mind, back on track.

1. Focus on getting debt-free

Credit card debt grows fast because high interest is charged not just on missed payments, but also on new spends. So, make clearing this debt your top priority, even if it means pausing your SIPs or pulling out from existing investments. Your savings, and sanity, will thank you later.

2. Avalanche or snowball?

If you have debt across multiple cards or EMIs, start by clearing the highest-interest ones first — this “avalanche” method makes your debt cheaper overall. The “snowball” method, where you pay off the smallest debts first to build momentum, can feel rewarding but may cost more in the long run.

3. Find additional income

Additional income can often be a saviour at times of financial distress. Taking on a freelance or gig role, even something as simple as teaching your neighbour’s kids algebra, can help you pay off your debts faster.

Additional income can often be a saviour
| Photo Credit:
Getty Images/iStockPhoto

4. Talk to your bank

It might surprise you, but your bank may help if you reach out before things get complicated. Most banks in India have hardship or collections teams that can restructure your dues, especially if you act early. You can ask for:

– Lower interest rates or a temporary freeze

– EMI conversion of your outstanding balance at a lower rate

– Waiver of late fees or penalties

– In extreme cases, a one-time “settlement” (note: this affects your credit score, so use it only as a last resort)

It’s important to contact your bank as soon as possible. If your account defaults multiple times or is marked as a Non-Performing Asset (NPA), negotiating becomes much harder, and your credit score tanks.

List what you won’t spend on
| Photo Credit:
Getty Images/iStockPhoto

Financial freedom isn’t about how much we borrow. It’s about how resilient we are when income slows, interest rates rise, or emergencies happen. As a country, we must go beyond access and talk about agency. That means clear disclosures, financial education in schools, and a culture where talking about money isn’t taboo and living within your means is seen as wisdom, not a lack of ambition.

The writer is a chartered accountant and author of personal finance book Money Doesn’t Grow On Trees.

Published – September 05, 2025 07:07 am IST

Even for those who are not prone to nostalgia, Onam opens a floodgate of memories. Of a time when flowers for the pookkalam did not come out of plastic bags, sadya was a community affair that families and neighbours got together to make, festivities brought entire cities and villages alive and how people came together in a shared sense of co-existence.

Celebrated personalities from various fields share their special Onam memories with MetroPlus.

Vinayak Sasikumar

Lyricist

Vinayak Sasikumar
| Photo Credit:
Special Arrangement

In childhood, Onam meant sadya and I relish the sadya from my hometown, Thiruvananthapuram. Parippu, sambar, vada curry, which is exclusive to the city, two payasams – the pradhaman and paal payasam-boli combo, then another course of rice with pulissery, rasam, buttermilk etc… That is pure nostalgia for me.

Onam was also the time when I looked forward to watching movies on various channels, especially those which I missed out in theatres. Another standout memory is of my college days in Chennai, when [composer] Ouseppachan came as the chief guest for an Onam celebration. A song, which I wrote and my friend composed, was presented. His appreciation was a huge confidence booster for me who had not yet started working in movies. It was during another Onam programme that I staged mimicry with [actor] Kalidas Jayaram, who was my classmate then. It was a musical mimicry where we imitated the voices of various actors through songs. That was perhaps my one and only proper mimicry performance till date!

Arjun Radhakrishnan

Actor

Arjun Radhakrishnan
| Photo Credit:
Special Arrangement

I have never celebrated Onam in Kerala. Say, after the age of four. By then we had moved to Pune. So every Onam has been about sadya at home with parents. The Poona Keraleeya Samaj organises an Onasadya on the closest Sunday post Onam. That is where you interact with friends and acquaintances who you otherwise would not meet during the course of the year. That makes the memories I have of Onam. And now that it is only my mother and I for the past four years, she makes a sadya for my close friends. My favourites in the spread have been pachadi, inji (ginger) pickle, and palada pradhaman. Since I have moved to Kochi, I hope to start celebrating Onam in Kerala.

Dr Divya S Iyer

Bureaucrat

Dr Divya S Iyer
| Photo Credit:
SPECIAL ARRANGEMENT

I grew up Thiruvananthapuram and my first understanding of Onam is that it is the time when the city opens up for everybody. Since I stayed behind the Government Secretariat, it was sort of a vantage point to witness how the places around it became incredibly busy with people turning up from across the district. An area which otherwise stood for officialdom becomes another world. And there was the most incredible part of the festivities — witnessing the Onam pageantry featuring a plethora of floats. I felt extremely privileged and it was perhaps the first large crowd I saw in my life. I remember my father lifting me on his shoulders for me to watch the floats and we stood for hours by the roadside. Now, life has come a full circle in that this year I am associated with three departments that will line up their floats — Vizhinjam International Seaport Limited [she is the managing director], Kerala Solid Waste Management Project [as director] and Department of Culture [as director].

Another special Onam was when I was invited to be part of Onam festivities at the Rashtrapathi Bhavan during the tenure of Pranab Mukherji. When the new batch of us civil servants called upon him, I was the one assigned to speak on behalf of the group. I had goosebumps speaking at the Durbar Hall, which has witnessed many historic moments. It felt surreal. I might have spoken well because after that event, I was invited to be part of Onam celebrations that was a wholesome occasion with cultural programmes and a floral arrangement.

Aathira Manali

Designer and founder of designer label Inkpikle

Aathira Manali
| Photo Credit:
Special Arrangement

Onam, for me, has always been about coming together. My favourite childhood memories are of how the festival brought people closer like family, neighbours, and communities, all celebrating in unity. Growing up in Fort Kochi, I was always inspired by the way different cultures and religions lived together in harmony. That diversity and unity is something I deeply cherish.

Today, I carry that same essence into my work. My Coexist collection at Inkpikle is inspired by this very idea, ie the harmony of contrasts. Just like Onam, where different traditions blend seamlessly, my designs bring together organic shapes from nature with architectural geometry, the abstract shrines and dutch gables that stand by side to create a beautiful mosaic. For me, Onam is not just a festival in Kerala; it’s a reminder of coexistence, of unity in diversity, and that continues to stay relevant both in life and in design.

Sabareesh Narayanan

Stand-up comedian

Sabareesh Narayanan
| Photo Credit:
Special Arrangement

Since I hail from Tripunithura, Onam memories will always be about Athachamayam (a grand procession to commemorate the return of Mahabali held in the temple town). The Tripunithura Boys’ School, where we played cricket as children, becomes Atham Nagar, the centre of the city’s celebrations.

Athachamayam marks the beginning of the Onam festivities, and I attend this procession without fail every year. Instead of staying at home, I go there to witness the dog show, the Wall of Death stunts, small plays, and mega shows. On the morning of the parade day, I enjoy watching the preparations before it leaves the school grounds. Then I go back home to eat breakfast before walking to NSS Higher Secondary School in Tripunithura, where the procession ends. During Onam, the whole area comes alive, with flower vendors occupying the streets. This vibrant atmosphere excites me more than other traditional Onam experiences like sadya.

Jalaja PS

Artist

Jalaja PS
| Photo Credit:
Special Arrangement

My standout Onam memory is of thumba poo ada, a sweet snack made of tender thumba (Common Leucas) flowers. At my childhood home in Keezhillam, in Perumbavoor, my mother ensured that Onam was celebrated properly. She would prepare this ada with rice (soaked, dried and powdered with much care) and a delicious filling of coconut, thumba flowers and sugar, unlike the usual ada with the jaggery and coconut filling. Thumba poo ada is made specially for Mahabali, therefore it was also referred to as ‘Maveliyada’. While the jaggery adas were made in plenty, the thumba ones were limited.

Our Onam was as earthy and as close to Nature as it could get. Two days ahead of Thiruvonam, we children would make the Onathappan (symbolising Mahabali) and Onamuthi (an old woman’s form) with soil. These would be arranged in the courtyard, adorned with festive designs and the ada and payasam are offered to them. Unlike the ada that is steamed, these are roasted and therefore coarser in texture. These last for a few days and are served with tea even days after Onam. The cattle in the shed were also fed Onasadya; of course, they preferred to polish off the banana leaves first!

Published – September 04, 2025 08:14 pm IST