Life & Style

‘Gossip’, a theatre production by Kochi group delves into the nuances of female friendships

Feb 26, 2026

Ponnu Sajeev, Greeshma Narendran and Anjali Krishnadas in the Gossip
| Photo Credit: SPECIAL ARRANGEMENT

Gossip, a movement theatre production, is a celebration of female friendships, says Anjali Krishnadas who conceptualised it with Ponnu Sajeev, “we are putting forward the importance of female friendships which make us resilient and are a support system helping us deal with the patriarchy that we face in our daily lives.” Gossip, conceptualised and directed by Anjali and Ponnu and choreographed by Greeshma Narendran, will be perfromed by these three dancers. She elaborates how they reached the theme. Gossip will be staged on February 13, at Blue Collar Collective, Kakkanad.

“Gossip derives from the Old/Middle English ‘Godsibb’. One of the meanings attributed to it are trusted friend, especially a female companion during childbirth. And we wanted to give it that spin to the word than what is commonly attributed to it. Gossip has a negative connotation, which women are accused of. This is our way of reclaiming the term!” Anjali adds.

We see the action unfold via three female characters, as they go through life as they deal with love, societal and familial pressures. With this production, the attempt is to sh All incidents depicted in the show are inspired by real life, she adds. Anjali and Ponnu run Thuddippu Dance Foundation, an arts school and event space, while Greeshma Narendran is an actor/dancer.

The production was premiered at the Kochi Muziris Biennale on January 26, where it met with much enthusiasm and a standing applause. The choreography does not adhere to one form of dance but rather a blend of forms — contemporary, Bharatanatyam besides elements of theatre and other forms. “There are elements of fun, a mix of things. For instance we even have gym sequences.” The entire production has been done by women.

Published – February 26, 2026 10:59 am IST

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Quiz Foundation of India hosts a women-exclusive quiz on March 8

Feb 25, 2026

Quiz hosts Jayashree Mohanka, Saranya Jayakumar and Nirupama V from the quiz, last year
| Photo Credit: ilango

Why don’t more women participate in quizzes? This is a question that quizzers still struggle to crack.

On March 8 however, things promise to be different. The Quiz Foundation of India (QFI) will be back with the second edition of the Purple Riband Quiz: a quiz by women, for women, and about women.

Published – February 25, 2026 02:43 pm IST

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MG Majestor : A serious contender in the SUV segment

Feb 25, 2026

MG’s Indian portfolio has steadily evolved from feature-led urban crossovers to more credible premium offerings, and the Majestor represents the brand’s clearest statement yet in the full-size SUV space. Positioned as its flagship internal-combustion model and effectively a spiritual successor to the MG Gloster, the Majestor aims to blend rugged hardware, modern design and technology-driven comfort into a single, imposing package.

Muscular side profile highlighting its upright stance and large alloy wheels
| Photo Credit:
Special Arrangement

Visually, the Majestor makes a commanding first impression. Its design language is more upright and traditional than MG’s recent SUVs, with a tall bonnet, squared-off surfaces and pronounced wheel arches giving it a distinctly muscular stance. The large grille and split headlamp layout, complemented by distinctive LED DRLs, add to its visual drama, while the connected LED tail lamps and large wheels reinforce its premium positioning. Although it shares a similar footprint and wheelbase with the Gloster, the Majestor looks visibly larger and more imposing, thanks to its chunkier proportions and more upright silhouette.

Powering the Majestor is a 2.0-litre twin-turbo diesel engine, producing around 215 PS and 478 Nm of torque. The engine is paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission, with both 2WD and advanced 4WD configurations available. While the output figures are familiar on paper, they remain competitive for a vehicle of this size and intent, and the focus here is clearly on torque delivery and drivability rather than outright performance figures.

Tech-forward cabin featuring dual 12.3-inch displays and premium finishes
| Photo Credit:
Special Arrangement

Where the Majestor truly distinguishes itself is in its off-road hardware. It offers a rare triple differential lock setup—front, rear and centre—giving it the ability to maintain traction even when one or more wheels lose contact with the surface. This is complemented by multiple terrain modes, crawl control for low-speed technical terrain, generous ground clearance and a high water-wading capability. Collectively, these elements lend the Majestor genuine all-terrain credibility, moving it beyond the realm of lifestyle SUVs and into more serious off-road territory.

Inside, the Majestor adopts a clean, tech-forward cabin layout. Dual 12.3-inch displays handle infotainment and instrumentation, while a panoramic sunroof, ambient lighting and a large centre console contribute to a premium ambience. Convenience features are extensive: ventilated and massaging front seats with memory functions, three-zone climate control, dual wireless chargers, a 220V power outlet and a premium multi-speaker audio system are all part of the package. Connectivity is managed through MG’s connected-car suite, offering remote functions, vehicle tracking, diagnostics and app-based controls, along with wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay.

However, while the cabin is feature-rich, the material quality is not uniformly class-leading. The overall interior theme is quite monotone, and some of the plastics, particularly in lower sections and touchpoints, feel less premium than expected in this segment. The design is modern and functional, but it doesn’t quite deliver the tactile richness that rivals are beginning to offer.

Triple differential lock system underscores the Majestor’s serious off-road credentials
| Photo Credit:
Special Arrangement

In terms of space and seating, the Majestor is broadly impressive but not without compromise. The second row offers ample legroom and headroom, but the high floor results in a slightly knees-up seating posture, which affects underthigh support. This could be noticeable on longer journeys, especially for rear passengers. The third row is best suited to children, although adults under around 5 ft 10 in can fit for shorter trips without significant discomfort. Overall usability is strong, but rear-row comfort is not class-leading.

Safety is another area where MG has equipped the Majestor with technology. Level 2 ADAS is available, featuring adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assistance, automatic emergency braking, and other driver assistance features. A 360-degree camera, electronic stability control, traction control, ABS with EBD and additional passive and active safety systems round out the package. MG’s warranty and aftersales offerings further add to the ownership proposition, with long-term coverage and roadside assistance designed to reduce ownership concerns.

In many ways, the Majestor represents a more mature, hardware-led evolution of MG’s large SUV strategy. It retains the brand’s trademark emphasis on features and technology, but backs it up with serious off-road engineering and a bold, traditional SUV design language. While the interior materials and second-row ergonomics could have been better executed, the overall package feels cohesive and purpose-built.

Connected LED tail-lamps enhance the SUV’s modern, premium road presence
| Photo Credit:
Special Arrangement

Ultimately, the Majestor enters a fiercely competitive full-size SUV segment populated by well-established players, and its success will hinge on pricing and perceived value. If MG positions it aggressively, the combination of genuine off-road capability, strong diesel powertrain, extensive tech and bold design could make it one of the most compelling new entrants in the category.

Expected price: ₹40 lakh to ₹45 lakh (ex-showroom)

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

Published – February 25, 2026 12:33 pm IST

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Nissan Gravite: A value-driven seven-seater

Feb 25, 2026

Roof rails and pronounced wheel arches help the Gravite blend into India’s SUV-dominated landscape while retaining its MPV practicality
| Photo Credit: Special Arrangement

At first glance, the Gravite presents a more upright and confident stance than what its footprint might suggest. The design incorporates familiar Nissan cues, including C-shaped lighting elements and a relatively bold front fascia, giving it a bit more presence than a traditional entry-level MPV. It is still unmistakably a compact family vehicle, but the raised stance, pronounced wheel arches and roof rails help it blend into the SUV-dominated Indian market without losing its MPV roots.

The Nissan Gravite’s upright stance and bold front fascia give it stronger road presence than its compact footprint suggests
| Photo Credit:
Special Arrangement

Step inside and the Gravite’s priorities immediately become clear. The cabin is designed around flexibility, with seating that can be configured for two to seven occupants and a removable third row to free up luggage space when needed. In five-seat mode, the boot expands significantly, making it viable for longer trips with luggage. Storage options are generous, with multiple compartments and a cooled centre console, which is the kind of detail that matters in everyday use rather than on a spec sheet. Overall fit and finish are better than expected for the segment, while quilted upholstery and respectable material quality lend the interior a more upmarket feel and should stand up well to the demands of family life.

The feature list is contemporary enough for its intended audience. A floating touchscreen with wireless smartphone connectivity, a digital instrument cluster, wireless charging and proximity-based locking functions bring it in line with current expectations. Front and rear parking sensors add convenience in urban environments, where compact dimensions and ease of manoeuvrability are key selling points. None of this is particularly groundbreaking, but it covers the essentials without inflating costs unnecessarily.

In five-seat configuration, the Gravite offers generous boot space for longer trips
| Photo Credit:
Special Arrangement

Safety is taken seriously for a budget-focussed vehicle. Six airbags, electronic stability control, traction control, hill-start assist and brake assist are standard, which is significant in a segment where safety equipment can often be pared back. While real-world crash-test data will ultimately shape perceptions, the baseline specification suggests Nissan is aiming to meet rising buyer expectations in this area.

Under the bonnet is a familiar 1.0-litre three-cylinder naturally aspirated petrol engine paired with either a five-speed manual or an automated manual transmission. With 72 PS and 96 Nm of torque, it is tuned for efficiency and ease of use rather than outright performance. In practice, this power train is well suited to city driving and moderate highway cruising, prioritising smoothness and fuel economy over aggressive acceleration. Claimed efficiency figures around the 19 km/l mark reinforce its frugal positioning, which is likely to be a strong draw for budget-conscious buyers.

Nissan Motor Co. is also offering a limited launch edition featuring accessories such as upgraded audio, a dash cam, ambient lighting and cosmetic enhancements. These additions remain optional and aimed at buyers who want a slightly more personalised feel, but the core appeal of the Gravite remains its practicality and affordability rather than add-on features.

A contemporary cabin with floating touchscreen and digital instrument cluster keeps the interior feeling modern.
| Photo Credit:
Special Arrangement

The Gravite is essentially the twin to the Renault Triber, sharing the same core platform and mechanical underpinnings. That connection is unlikely to bother its target audience, which is more concerned with space, running costs and affordability than brand lineage. What Nissan brings to the table is a distinct design identity and its own feature mix, giving buyers another credible option in the budget seven-seater space without fundamentally changing the value equation.

Roof rails and pronounced wheel arches help the Gravite blend into India’s SUV-dominated landscape while retaining its MPV practicality.
| Photo Credit:
Special Arrangement

In a market dominated by compact SUVs and increasingly expensive MPVs, the Gravite’s value proposition is straightforward. It is designed for families who need three rows of seating on a tight budget, for first-time buyers stepping up from a hatchback or compact sedan, and for those who prioritise practicality over badge prestige. It does not pretend to be anything more than a sensible, mass-market people mover, and that honesty could be its biggest strength.

The Nissan Gravite is priced at ₹5.65 lakh for the Visia, ₹6.59 lakh for the Acenta, ₹7.20 lakh for the N-Connecta, ₹7.91 lakh for the Tekna, ₹7.80 lakh for the N-Connecta AMT and ₹8.49 lakh for the Tekna AMT (all ex-showroom).

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

Published – February 26, 2026 11:02 am IST

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Kerala-based horror 3D game, Thekku Island, to launch on February 27

Feb 25, 2026

Set on a mysterious island in Kerala in the 1980s, a journalist investigating it goes missing. More details about her absence are revealed as her husband, the protagonist, goes looking for her on this isle, with challenges emerging one after another. This is the premise of Thekku Island, touted as Kerala’s first horror 3D game, created by Ales Devs Games and RedWills Interactive, set to launch on Steam (a digital distribution platform for PC gaming) on February 27.

The game, of the horror-thriller genre, is the brainchild of Athul George, game director of Thekku Island, and has been in development for nearly a year now. “Athul and I met through online game development communities. We got closer over the games we designed, giving each other feedback. That’s when he mentioned Thekku Island, which was then in its alpha stage. And one day, Athul asked me to get on board for this game, to produce it on a larger canvas,” says Aswin Sunilkumar, creative director of Thekku Island. After finishing 12th class, Athul was engaged in game design, teaching himself the craft through YouTube.

The five-member team also includes Aswin PV (marketing head) and Adithyan P S (Game Operations), both Integrated MCA students at Saintgits College of Engineering (Autonomous), Kottayam and classmates of the creative director Aswin. Adhi Gopakumar, as music director, completes the ensemble. Everyone on the team is currently 21 or 22 years old.

(From left) Athul George (Game Director) Aswin Sunilkumar (Creative Director ), Adhi Gopakumar (Music Director), Adithyan P S(Game Operations ) and (behind) Aswin PV (Marketing Head)
| Photo Credit:
SPECIAL ARRANGEMENT

“All of us, born after 2000, have been observing different trends in the gaming industry. We transitioned from Road Rash (a motorcycle racing video game) to Grand Theft Auto: Vice City (an action-adventure game) and so on. Even when we played these games back then, we contemplated why we had not released such a game from Kerala. That thought brought us together,” says Aswin.

Thekku Island is a first-person PC game with a playtime of three hours, straying away from the recent mobile phone-oriented games. “We decided amongst ourselves to develop the game for PC. Both types have their own difficulties. For PCs, especially the individual gaming experience depends on their customised specifications,” says Aswin.

A still from Thekku Island
| Photo Credit:
SPECIAL ARRANGEMENT

Challenges

One of the biggest challenges in producing this game was the limited budget, says the makers. However, the team’s individual strengths, such as Athul’s ability to work with 3D models or Aswin’s experience with video editing, helped.

“We didn’t have to bring in someone from outside. Since most of us are MCA students, our coding skills were also put to work,” Aswin says.

Another challenge the team faced was finding the proper references for the game design, a tedious task considering the dearth of games in Malayalam. Aswin comments, “It was a challenge to depict Kerala’s topography in the ‘80s through our visuals. Our references were our surroundings and movies from that era. We were creating the setting from scratch.”

Malayalam filmmaker Rahul Sadasivan’s hit horror movie Bramayugam inspired the makers. “We were in awe of how Rahul shot the movie in such a space. The elements of horror in the movie also moved us,” says Aswin, who worked as a promo editor for Tharun Moorthy’s Saudi Vellakkaand edited the behind-the-scenes videos for Mammootty-starrer Turbo and Thudarum headlined by Mohanlal.

Is a sequel on the cards for Thekku Island? “We are waiting for people’s responses. We are confident about our work, but we don’t know how it will be accepted and what our market is,” says Aswin.

As for the future, Aswin says, “Placement season is going on in our college. But we want to follow our passion, which is why we are not searching for a job or internship. We are excited to release the game and see how it pans out. Currently, we are an indie game studio; we want to develop into an AAA game studio, producing high-budget, major-publisher titles.”

Published – February 25, 2026 12:07 pm IST

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A bold new production of Antony and Cleopatra at Madurai’s Mannar Thirumalai Naicker College

Feb 25, 2026

From previous performances
| Photo Credit: Special Arrangement

After last year’s spirited rendition of The Merchant of Venice, King’s Theatre, the drama team at Mannar Thirumalai Naicker College was back with a bold new production of Antony and Cleopatra, that ran from January 5 to 9, at their college premises.

The play marked a dramatic shift from romantic comedy to historical tragedy, as the college embraces one of Shakespeare’s most intricate and emotionally charged works. “The decision to stage Antony and Cleopatra was not made lightly. Known for its layered characters and political depth, the play is often avoided by amateur troupes. But for this year’s ensemble, the challenge was part of the appeal,” said L.M. Joseph Paul Bezaleel, assistant professor of English (SF). “While many production teams gravitate toward Shakespeare’s more accessible works, Antony and Cleopatra remains a rare choice and often sidestepped due to its demanding emotional terrain and the logistical weight of staging its grandeur,” he added.

The team
| Photo Credit:
Special Arrangement

Why Antony and Cleopatra? The answer lies in the magnetic force of Cleopatra herself. “She is the definitive character dictum for queenship,” said the production team. “Her complexity is not a flaw, but a mirror for modern women navigating a world that demands they be everything at once.” This portrayal seeks to reclaim Cleopatra’s narrative from centuries of objectification.

This year’s production brought together students from ten departments, creating a vibrant mix of talent and perspective. The team introduced a strikingly different stage design by opting for a block set, performing a bold architectural design. Even the wings for entry and exit were reimagined. In a daring departure from traditional theatre practice, the crew minimised curtain draws during set changes, and instead let the audience witness the transformation unfold in real time.

The play was open to schools and colleges from January 5 to 9 at 9.30am and 12.30pm, and for the public on January 10 at 5.30pm, at Mannar Thirumalai Naicker College. For details, call 9789789224 or 9566497051.

Published – February 24, 2026 04:18 pm IST

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A bold new production of Antony and Cleopatra at Madurai’s Mannar Thirumalai Naicker College

Feb 24, 2026

From previous performances
| Photo Credit: Special Arrangement

After last year’s spirited rendition of The Merchant of Venice, King’s Theatre, the drama team at Mannar Thirumalai Naicker College is back with a bold new production of Antony and Cleopatra, running from January 5 to 9, at their college premises.

The play will mark a dramatic shift from romantic comedy to historical tragedy, as the college embraces one of Shakespeare’s most intricate and emotionally charged works. “The decision to stage Antony and Cleopatra was not made lightly. Known for its layered characters and political depth, the play is often avoided by amateur troupes. But for this year’s ensemble, the challenge was part of the appeal,” says L M Joseph Paul Bezaleel, assistant professor of English (SF). “While many production teams gravitate toward Shakespeare’s more accessible works, Antony and Cleopatra remains a rare choice and often sidestepped due to its demanding emotional terrain and the logistical weight of staging its grandeur,” he adds

The team
| Photo Credit:
Special Arrangement

Why Antony and Cleopatra? The answer lies in the magnetic force of Cleopatra herself. “She is the definitive character dictum for queenship,” says the production team. “Her complexity is not a flaw, but a mirror for modern women navigating a world that demands they be everything at once.” This portrayal seeks to reclaim Cleopatra’s narrative from centuries of objectification.

This year’s production brings together students from ten departments, creating a vibrant mix of talent and perspective. The team has introduced a strikingly different stage design by opting for a block set, performing a bold architectural design. Even the wings for entry and exit have been reimagined. In a daring departure from traditional theatre practice, the crew plans to minimise curtain draws during set changes, instead letting the audience witness the transformation unfold in real time.

The play is open to schools and colleges from January 5 to 9 at 9.30am and 12.30pm, and for the public on January 10 at 5.30pm, at Mannar Thirumalai Naicker College. For details, call 9789789224 or 9566497051.

Published – February 24, 2026 04:18 pm IST

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Shalini Passi’s ‘The Art of Being Fabulous’ explores the work behind living beautifully

Feb 24, 2026

Ever since socialite, philanthropist and art patron Shalini Passi appeared on Fabulous Lives vs Bollywood Wives on Netflix in 2024, she has become something of a social media sensation — celebrated for her nonchalant attitude and maximal sartorial choices. Her sharp one-liners such as “I like things more than people” and “I don’t hold grudges, it affects my skin” quickly went viral, with many applauding her candour.

But what looks effortless on screen has taken time. Shalini admits she didn’t simply wake up one day feeling immune to outside noise. Over the years, she realised that the opinions that unsettled her the most were often about things she could not control anyway. “That’s when I kept returning to integrity, the consistency between my values and my actions,” she says. “If I am intentional about my work, my collaborations, the causes I support — that becomes my anchor. When the external narrative shifts, as it always does, I’m less affected by it.”

This kind of internal work, she notes, is rarely visible behind the glamour. Her move into writing came when younger women began reaching out to her, wanting to talk about confidence, pressure and expectations. “I realised that the experiences I’d lived through — the fragile ones as much as the empowering ones —might actually be worth sharing. That’s how The Art of Being Fabulous came to life,” she says of her debut book, published by Penguin Random House India, which focusses on mindful living and personal growth.

Shalini Passi and Shashi Tharoor
| Photo Credit:
Special Arrangement

At the unveiling of her memoir at The Leela Palace, New Delhi, Shalini — dressed in a custom saree from designer Ashdeen Lilaowala’s print series — was both nervous and excited. Joining her was politician and author Shashi Tharoor, who spoke about the sensibility she brings to her work. “She reminds us that art can exist in the way we arrange a room, the way we carry a conversation, or even in how we choose colour and silence,” he noted. “All of that is art.”

For someone deeply involved in the art world, Shalini says art changed how she thinks about beauty. She once saw it as something meant to comfort — but over time, she has come to see how it can also challenge and unsettle. “Spending time with artists, understanding how they think and what they’re willing to risk, changed how I approach my own life,” she says. “There’s an emotional courage in the creative process that I really admire. It’s made me value long-term vision, experimentation and emotional honesty.”

Readers, she believes, may be surprised by how little the book is actually about glamour, and how much it is about discipline, honesty and conscious choices. “Living beautifully rarely happens in the spotlight,” she points out. “It shows up in our daily habits, our relationships, and in the way we choose to treat ourselves.”

Shalini Passi
| Photo Credit:
Special Arrangement

Among the ideas she explores, the hardest for her has been learning to slow down. What sounds simple often feels anything but. “I kept asking myself what I was really achieving by staying busy,” she admits. “Some of my clearest decisions and most honest creative insights came only when I allowed myself to pause. I don’t think I’ll ever fully master it, and I am okay with that.”

At the same time, she is careful that vulnerability does not become self-indulgent. She shares personal moments only when they might offer strength or perspective. “True empowerment lies in recognising that uncertainty, self-doubt and reinvention aren’t weaknesses; they’re part of growth,” she reflects.

The Art of Being Fabulous
| Photo Credit:
Special Arrangement

Ultimately, she hopes readers close the book feeling more comfortable with who they are becoming, rather than who they think they are supposed to be. If there is one idea she hopes to dismantle, it is the belief that there is a formula for beauty, success or a life well-lived. “There isn’t one. And the sooner you make peace with that, the sooner you can begin building something that is genuinely, wholly yours,” she advises.

Beyond the book, Shalini is exploring curatorial and collaborative projects that bring contemporary Indian artists into conversation with international platforms. She is also developing visual and editorial initiatives that aim to foster richer storytelling around culture, identity and creative practice. “For me, the next phase is about creating spaces for meaningful exchange, across art, design and lived experience,” she says. “It’s an exciting and evolving chapter.”

Published – February 23, 2026 06:52 pm IST

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Inside Little Palm Grove, an eco-conscious boutique stay in Ashvem

Feb 24, 2026

More often than not, one is exhausted by just planning a holiday: where to stay, things to do and checking off many other things on the itinerary. If you are looking for the next escape as summer approaches, here is a destination where planning requires just one thing: your arrival.

Goa is not a new destination for holiday-goers, with each part of the State offering something different. For those looking for an easy-going, secluded getaway, Little Palm Grove offers you just that. Nestled 250 metres north of Ashvem Beach, the eco-conscious resort is an extension of the Palm Grove Beach Resort that Eva Agardsdotter and Viraj Harmalkar co-founded in 2009.

“Little Palm Grove is for those who want to explore Goa with solitude and privacy on priority,” says Eva of the property that opened its doors in December 2025. The property comprises five mud bungalows: four sea-facing and one garden-view. Each bungalow opens to a verandah with a private plunge pool that overlooks the Arabian Sea.

The walls are finished with a lime coat, making them breathable, and the flooring uses yellow shabad stone from Hyderabad.
| Photo Credit:
Special Arrangement

The idea took root in 2011 when the team constructed a simple bamboo bungalow resort next to the existing Palm Grove Beach Resort. “That was the beginning of Little Palm Grove. We were looking at renovating it when the pandemic hit and the project went on a pause until 2024,” says Eva, adding that they then refreshed the project and envisioned it as an oasis for guests. “We wanted to create something that was open through the year, blended with Nature, and gave guests a deeper insight into Goan culture. Hotels here more or less look the same, and we wanted to stand out.”

Each bungalow opens to a verandah with a private plunge pool that overlooks the Arabian Sea
| Photo Credit:
Special Arrangement

The result is a thoughtfully designed, intimate property, enveloped in shades of earthy brown and green. Inspired by traditional Goan mud architecture, the bungalows “remain naturally cool, creating a comfortable indoor environment, perfectly suited to Goa’s tropical landscape,” says architect Pradeep Naik. The walls are finished with a lime coat, making them breathable, and the flooring uses yellow shabad stone from Hyderabad. Each bungalow comes with a comfortable king-size bed, a sofa that converts into an additional bed, and a writing desk. The verandah has a large day bed, perfect to lounge on after a dip in the private pool; and a dining table where breakfast promptly arrives every morning.

Breakfast at Little Palm Grove
| Photo Credit:
Special Arrangement

Breakfast comprises a range of offerings: parathas and idlis; several egg preparations, granola bowls, freshly made smoothies, avocado toast and more. For lunch and dinner, guests head to the restaurant at Palm Grove that has sea food offerings, and traditional Goan fare. Highlights include grilled prawns and calamari, avocado pizza, edamame rigatoni, and grandma’s prawn curry.

Grandma’s prawn curry
| Photo Credit:
Special Arrangement

So, what does a slow holiday here look like? Kickstart your morning with a yoga session organised by the property or practice on your own using the yoga mats provided in every room. Next, we suggest heading to the beach for a swim before going back to the bungalow where breakfast (that you order the previous evening) awaits you in the private verandah. Take a stroll, lounge about before heading to the spa where you wish time stands still. I was quite close to booking a ticket for the masseuse and bringing her home. Don’t worry, I did not so you can get a brilliant massage when you visit.

Each bungalow comes with a comfortable king-size bed, a sofa that converts into an additional bed, and a writing desk.
| Photo Credit:
Special Arrangement

Post lunch, head to the local market, cafe hop, or take up a pottery session that the team organises in collaboration with local studio, Mati Earth Studio. Nature enthusiasts, can take an evening boat ride into the Chapora river with Beatroute Explorers, to spot mangroves, birds, and mugger crocodiles (if you are lucky).

If you are surprised that there is so much to do in Goa than just pub hop or get a tan, the next time you plan that Goa getaway, you now know where to head.

Little Palm Grove is at Ashvem Beach, Mandrem, Goa. ₹35,000 a night from March to April.

Published – February 24, 2026 11:41 am IST

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20 years of Tamannaah: The actress speaks about her roles and new jewellery line

Feb 23, 2026

Tamannaah Bhatia turns entrepreneur with Tamannaah Fine Jewellery
| Photo Credit: Special Arrangement

This is a landmark year for Tamannaah Bhatia — she completes 20 years in Kollywood. She made her Tamil debut with the film Kedi in 2006. Two decades down the line, the actor is a pan-India star having worked in Hindi, Tamil, and Telugu films and big blockbusters like Baahubali. We catch up between shoots.

“I just shot for Rohit Shetty’s Rakesh Maria with John Abraham. Then there is Rangers, an action adventure film — a Luv Ranjan production; and Vvan with Sidharth Malhotra. It’s rooted in some amount of folklore, depicting culture in an interesting way,” she lists out, adding, “This is a fresh outing for me. People have seen me a lot in the southern film industry. This entire phase and all these films will be an interesting outing for me for the Hindi side of the audience.”

Post this she will start her schedule for Purushan with Vishal, Ragini 3, and Shantaram.

With the camera still rolling, and despite back to back shoots, Tamannaah has found time to embrace one of her passions and become an entrepreneur. The actress recently launched Tamannaah Fine Jewellery in Mumbai (available at the retail store and online). This is jewellery — rings, necklaces, pendants, earrings, bracelets — in 14kt and 18kt gold with diamonds and gemstones like emerald, ruby, and tourmaline.

Pieces from her first drop
| Photo Credit:
Special Arrangement

“It took two years to come up with the first drop, which has five collections,” says Tamannaah. And keeping the month of love in mind, the brand just dropped Heart Knot, pieces that prominently feature diamond hearts. “The first most impactful piece I came up with and felt like we were onto something was the half and half torque necklace, inspired by the Indian hasli. The torque is like a metallic pipe and we attached it with links. We created our own links, called flick and that plays out a lot in our collections,” she explains.

As a child, when Tamannaah had a bad day her father would take her to a jewellery store. She would buy trinkets. That perhaps is one of her earliest memories of jewellery. “I started working very young (she was 15 when she acted in her first film Chand Sa Roshan Chehra), so I was exposed to fashion early. I was getting ready everyday wearing jewellery. But I never imagined that I would take a liking to it so strong that I would create within that space,” she says. A collection for men is on the cards next.

While styling herself for events and just “having glam on all the time”, she realised that there was too much emphasis on clothes and accessories that were not comfortable and there was a certain notion of what glamour should be. But when she tried on certain kinds of jewellery it took her away from that notion that others had. She wanted to create jewellery that could be worn everyday and not just be locked away for weddings and other such occasions.

“My father has been in the jewellery business for the last 15 years. The moment I felt I had something to say in this space, I hopped in,” says Tamannaah. The designs, she says, are all hers. And she is on the floor talking to people to understand what they really want in the pieces they wear, what works and what doesn’t.

Tamannaah has taken lessons she has learnt in the film industry and applied them to her jewellery business as well. “I’ve been in a commercial space and understand that in the end your art is supposed to be consumed by people. If you have to survive as an artiste, you have to reinvent.” What’s been interesting for her is that every year she discovered a new version of herself. Baahubali helped her realise the range and variety she could bring as an actor. She enjoys the ability to make her audience feel something. The whole purpose of entertainment, she believes, is to influence people by invoking something within them.

But acting is also a physically rigorous job, she admits. “It is gruelling. You have to keep your body and emotions intact. There is very little time for family and self. In the end, would I do it all again?,” she asks and after a pause smiles, “Yes, I would.”

Published – February 21, 2026 03:44 pm IST

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