Protect your nails and lips by applying clear nail polish and a generous layer of lip balm. This shields them from colour pigments and prevents staining. After the celebrations, gently cleanse and moisturise for healthy, nails and lips, ensuring a fun, and colourful yet stain-free Holi…reports Asian Lite News
Holi, the festival of colours, is a time of cheer and laughter. It’s essential to address the risks of the festival to our hair and skin. As we jump into colourful celebrations, let’s prioritize skin and hair care rituals to safeguard and minimise damage.
These six tips from Dr. Charu Sharma, Co-founder and Director of Dermatology at Cureskin promise a worry-free and radiantly festive Holi experience, ensuring our skin and hair stay in top-notch condition amidst the festive season.
Oil Up for Easy Removal: Oil acts as a natural resistance to colour on skin and hair. Apply a generous amount of natural oil like coconut or almond oil to your body at least an hour before playing Holi. The oil creates a protective barrier, making it easier to remove colours later and preventing them from staining your skin. Additionally, before shampooing apply a generous amount of hair oil for about half an hour. This helps loosen any remaining colour particles and nourishes your scalp.
Moisturisation and Sunscreen for the win: Holi colours can be drying, so prepping your skin with a good moisturiser is key. Whether it is a thick moisturiser or sunscreen, ensure to apply a generous layer, paying special attention to exposed areas like your face, arms, and neck. Ensure you stay well moisturised before and after playing Holi to maintain your skin. Don’t forget about sun protection! Holi celebrations generally take place outdoors, so apply a good quality sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher to shield your skin from harmful UV rays.
Extra care for your nails and lips: Protect your nails and lips by applying clear nail polish and a generous layer of lip balm. This shields them from colour pigments and prevents staining. After the celebrations, gently cleanse and moisturise for healthy, nails and lips, ensuring a fun, and colourful yet stain-free Holi.
TLC for Tresses: Use a gentle, colour-safe shampoo to remove the colour without stripping your hair’s natural oils. Follow up with a deep conditioning mask to restore moisture and manageability, especially after exposure to harsh Holi colours. This routine helps protect and nourish your hair effectively.
Stay sipping: Keeping hydrated throughout the day is crucial. Drink plenty of water before, during, and after Holi to keep your skin plump and healthy. This will also help flush out any toxins from the colours, and keep you going through the hot weather of the day.
Play a safe Holi with organic colours: Opt for organic colours to ensure a safe and eco-friendly celebration. Made from natural ingredients, these colours are gentle on the skin and environment, minimising the risk of allergies and pollution. Embrace the vibrant hues of nature for a joyful and sustainable festival experience.
Holi, often dubbed the festival of colours, holds a special place in the hearts of Indians worldwide. It signifies the triumph of good over evil, the arrival of spring, and the rejuvenation of life. This year, let’s raise the bar high for Holi celebrations by adding more colours to the itinerary. With delectable Holi brunches from well-known chefs, a staycation and extravagant non-stop fun and music at your favourite addresses. Here’s a curated list of stops to make your Holi experience unique.
5 days of non-stop fun and music at Imagicaa: Get ready to dive into the most extravagant 5-day-long Holi celebration of the year at India’s favourite holiday destination, Imagicaa! The Imagicaa Holi Bash 2024 is to be held from 23 – 27 March 2024. The upcoming wave pool party is ready to set the tone by bringing a new dimension of musical euphoria, featuring talented and renowned DJ Julia Bliss, DJ Aryan Gala, DJ Himani Singh, DJ Prajakta and DJ Joel.
Experience the thrill of Imagicaa’s wave pool party, where you can splash and dance to the rhythm of the music amidst the cool waters. Ride the waves and soak up the sun in a vibrant and energetic atmosphere; the perfect way to cool off and make a splash during the festivities of this one-of-a-kind Holi celebration. Whether you’re a thrill-seeker or just looking to have some fun in the sun, Imagicaa’s slides are guaranteed to delight and entertain. Unleash your inner thrill-seeker with unlimited access to Imagicaa’s exciting fun slides, offering an adrenaline-pumping experience like no other.
Where: Imagicaa Theme and Water Park, Khopoli
When: 23 – 27 March 2024
Time: 11 AM onwards
Entry Price: Starting Rs. 799/- onwards
For more information visit imagicaaworld.com
Let every colour tell a story at Suryagarh Jaisalmer: Nestled in the heart of Jaisalmer, Suryagarh beckons you to immerse yourself in a magical celebration of Holi, where every colour spins a tale of tradition and joy. Year after year, the hotel welcomes guests to partake in this joyous festival of Holi, celebrated with organic colours, delicate flower petals and amidst the melodies of the Thar.
As colours and laughter fill the air, experience the essence of Holi come alive at Suryagarh. From the soulful melodies of the Manganiyars to the graceful twirl of the dancers and a diverse array of Mithais prepared by the hotel’s in-house Halwai, every moment of your Holi celebration is nothing short of enchanting.
When: 24 – 26 March 2024
Price: Rs. 68,000++ (Valid for 2 nights, 2 people). The package includes a buffet Breakfast on both days; Holi Brunch with cocktails and entertainment on March 25th
The Leela Ambience Gurugram Hotel & Residences: Revel in luxury with a Holi escape unlike any other at The Leela Ambience Gurugram Hotel & Residences. The ideally located hotel invites guests to experience the perfect Holi long weekend featuring its welcoming hospitality. The hotel presents The Leela Getaway, available from 23 – 25 March. Alongside, indulge in an exceptional ‘Holi Brunch’ with a specially curated menu on 24 March.
The stay package features an exciting lineup of offerings, including deluxe rooms, traditional Indian sweets upon welcome, a hearty breakfast buffet, a souvenir from your stay, and a hotel credit of Rs. 2000 and ‘Phoolon wali Holi’ celebrations. This exclusive opportunity offers a luxurious The Leela Getaway to celebrate the festival with joy and festivity.
Embrace the colours of spring with a Bikaneri Holi at Narendra Bhawan: Embark on a journey of vibrant festivities this spring at Narendra Bhawan, a boutique design hotel that presents the life of the last reigning Maharaja of Bikaner. The Bikaneri Holi celebrations at the hotel reflect the rich cultural tapestry of this enchanting city as you indulge in the hotel’s warm hospitality and intuitively curated experiences.
A mystical Sundowner at Darbari – a lakeside venue adorned with white canopies and lanterns, marks the beginning of an unforgettable two-day celebration filled with the colours of spring, music and scrumptious Bikaneri delicacies. On the day of Holi, revel in a bottomless brunch by the poolside, as the colours of Holi unfold and Narendra Bhawan becomes the canvas for your joyous celebrations.
When: 24 – 26 March 2024
Priced at: Rs. 11,250 ++ (per person, per night). The package includes sundowner at Darbari by the lake with cocktails & canapés on 24 March; breakfast and bottomless brunch with Holi celebrations on 25 March
Brunch at The Leela Ambience Gurugram Hotels & Residences: The elaborate spread planned at Spectra, an award-winning restaurant, is bound to bring out the best of the day. A specially designed menu will be ready to entice and delight you; the offerings feature everything from a Indian traditional mithai to flavoured Kulhad milk and lassi.
Time: 12:30 PM – 3:30 PM
For reservations: +91 9717596088 |+91 9650496906
Delectable brunch at The Hebbal Cafe: Celebrate the vibrant spirit of Holi at Courtyard by Marriott Bengaluru Hebbal this festive season! Immerse yourself in a timeless Holi Brunch on the 24th Of March at The Hebbal Café, the hotel’s all-day-dining restaurant. Indulge in a culinary journey curated by the talented team of chefs, led by Executive Chef Rajeev Kumar. Delight in classic festive dishes like Kesar Thandai, Sweet Gujiya, Puran Poli, Besan Papdi, Dahi Vada, and more to tantalize your taste buds and elevate your Holi experience. Sip on some of the finest mocktails as you soak in the joyous celebrations. Enhance your dining pleasure with the lively tunes performed by the live band, creating a festive atmosphere for all to enjoy.
Where: The Hebbal Cafe, Courtyard by Marriott Bengaluru Hebbal
When: 24 March
Time: 12:30 pm – 3:30 pm
Price: Adults: Rs. 1999++ per person | Kids: Rs. 999++ (Above 5 to below 12 years)
For further details and reservations, contact: +919606482968
Celebrate Holi with a lavish brunch at Seasonal Tastes, The Westin Mumbai Garden City: In the vibrant tapestry of Indian culture, Holi stands out as a celebration of colours, joy, and togetherness. Embracing this spirit of festivity, Seasonal Tastes at The Westin Mumbai Garden City proudly announces its Holi Brunch, promising an extravagant spread that encapsulates the essence of this beloved festival.
Where: Seasonal Tastes, The Westin Mumbai Garden City
When: 24 March,12:30 pm to 4 pm | 25 March, 12:30 pm to 3:30 pm
Price: Holi brunch on Sunday at Rs. 3399++ without alcohol; Rs. 4899++ with alcohol. Holi Lunch on Monday Rs. 2299++
Rango Ki Ghoomar I Colour Me Happy I Ft. Nora Fatehi at JW Marriott Kolkata HOLI 2024: Get ready to immerse yourself in the vibrant colours and festive spirit of Holi at the most premium event of the season – Rango Ki Ghoomar I Colour Me Happy I Ft. Nora Fatehi | HOLI 2024, hosted by JW Marriott Hotel, Kolkata. Experience the ultimate Holi celebration like never before with an exclusive event featuring Bollywood sensation Nora Fatehi! Join for a day filled with music, dance, and endless joy as the hotel ring in the festival of colours in grand style.
What to expect: Organic colours for a safe and eco-friendly celebration. Unlimited buffet featuring a delectable array of Holi delicacies. Free-flowing beverages to keep the festive spirits high. Groove to the beats of the DJ and feel the rhythm with live dhol performance
When: 25 March 2024
Time: 11:00 AM onwards
Where: JW Marriott Hotel, Kolkata
Ticket prices: Rs. 3999/- onwards
Vibrant shades of Holi Sunday brunch at Miri, The St. Regis Goa Resort: Indulge in a decadent Sunday brunch spread at Miri, with a riot of colours and flavours. Enjoy a specially curated Holi-themed menu, starting with a refreshing Thandai or cocktails with Goa’s homegrown rum, Maka Zai.
When: 22 March
Time: 1 pm to 4 pm
Price: Rs. 2999+taxes for brunch without alcohol, and Rs. 3999+ taxes for brunch with alcohol
Holi colours tend to stick to hair and, when washed off, make hair drier and rougher. To avoid poky hair after Holi celebrations, you can go for a hair trim a few days before Holi and get rid of the split ends to ensure the Holi saga does not pave the way for further damage…reports Asian Lite News
It’s finally the month of Holi when we splash vibrant colours on each other and fill the air with excitement and anticipation. But, not to forget, the chemical dyes and UV exposure are also part of the Holi celebration. However, fret not! Before diving headfirst into the festivities, we must arm ourselves with knowledge and a robust pre-Holi hair care routine. From helping minimize the damage from artificial dyes to ensuring a swift colour wash from hair post celebrations, a pre-holi hair care regimen will protect hair health while allowing you to immerse in the joy of festivities without concerns.
Let’s explore essential tips and tricks with the help of Matthew Hiscox, Managing Director Inspired Beauty Brands (HASK) Asia-Pacific Brand -HASK, to ensure your mane remains luscious, vibrant, and resilient throughout the revelries.
Deep Condition Your Hair Before Holi
Holi colours can lead to dry and brittle hair. Hence, a deep nourishing hair mask always helps combat the roughness and dryness Holi celebrations can cause. Just a day before Holi, use a rich hair mask through your roots and hair length to ensure your hair is nourished enough to resist the damage.
Tie Your Hair For Minimum Exposure To Damage
Before walking out for Holi celebrations, consider tying your hair in loose braids or a bun to ensure the least hair damage. There are humungous hairstyles that tie hair in one place while giving a stylish look. Customize your Holi look in a way that promotes tied hair and not open tresses. When you do this, washing the hair, post celebrations, and restoring shine will be easier.
Apply Hair Oil & Massage Your Scalp
You are going to be so grateful for this tip because it will save your hair from Holi damage. All you have to do is indulge in a hair oiling and massage routine a day before Holi. Oil creates a shield on your hair that does not allow colour or smoke to penetrate and hence, protects your mane. Try this, and you will not regret it later.
Go For Split-Ends Trimming Before Holi
Holi colours tend to stick to hair and, when washed off, make hair more dry and rough. To avoid poky hair after Holi celebrations, you can go for a hair trim a few days before Holi and get rid of the split ends to ensure the Holi saga does not pave the way for further damage.
Be Gentle & Mild With Your Hair Care
You already know that Holi colours would not do anything good for hair, but make it dry, brittle, and frizzy. Hence, you must ensure that your hair care products balance the damage. Go with milder formulas that do not dry hair, use a conditioner after every wash, apply hair serum regularly, and massage your scalp so that your hair is strong enough to survive the colours and sun!
The evening unfolded with immersive experiences that connected the art of colour with the brilliance of precious stones. Jasleen Royal’s mesmerising live performance has set a vibrant mood for the evening…reports Asian Lite News
The private residence of the Ambani family – Antilia saw a vibrant gala of Holi in Mumbai. The Magnificent Roman High Jeweler, Bulgari also known as the master of coloured gemstones, celebrated the festive spirit of Holi, the Indian festival of Colours, with A Roman Holi co-hosted with Isha M. Ambani, Director, Reliance Industries Limited.
The evening was an ode to Bulgari’s love for India and its deep connection to its rich cultural heritage.
Priyanka Chopra Jonas, Bulgari’s global ambassador, embraced the spirit of the Maison at the gathering. She asserts, “Holi is one of my favourite festivals, and I’m thrilled to be celebrating it with Bulgari as ‘A Roman Holi,’ a concept that beautifully blends innovation with the rich traditions of both India and Italy. This event holds a special place in my heart as Bulgari’s Heritage Collection draws inspiration from the Navratna, uniting the celebrated cultures and traditions of India and Italy on a global stage. Bulgari’s dedication to diversity and its practice of imbibing cultural heritage to craft its legacy has always resonated with me. I am looking forward to witnessing how we can serve as inspirations to build a heritage that elevates the grandeur of both countries.”
For this special occasion, Bulgari selected nine necklaces from its Heritage Collection, featuring nine different gems inspired by the Navratna, a talisman connected to Indian astrology, expressing Maison’s love for coloured gemstones. Highlighting rubies, sapphires, emeralds, amethysts, pearls, diamonds, citrines and peridots. Exceptional creations from the 1980s embody Italian craftsmanship and a daring tribute to colours.
The evening unfolded with immersive experiences that connected the art of colour with the brilliance of precious stones. Jasleen Royal’s mesmerising live performance has set a vibrant mood for the evening.
Amongst the other attendees who graced the event were Jean Christophe Babin, Bulgari CEO, and Lucia Silvestri, Bulgari Creative Director Jewelry, ‘Andhadhun’ star, and a friend of the Maison, Ayushmann Khurrana, fashion icon Athiya Shetty, the ‘Dhak Dhak Girl’ Madhuri Dixit, actress and fitness enthusiast Shilpa Shetty.
Thrilled with the success of the evening, Jean Christophe Babin, CEO of Bulgari shared, “The relationship India has with jewelry goes beyond aesthetic appeal. It is a form of expression, of connecting the past with the present. The concept of A Roman Holi ties in all these nuances through colours and celebration. Highlighting our heritage collection of coloured gemstones in the aura of Holi paying tribute to Indian Navratna was an exhilarating moment for us.”
A Roman Holi aims to forge an enduring tie between India and the Maison that will lend endless creative expressions.
As we draw closer to another year of Holi festivities, let’s scramble our dishes and show off our culinary skills once again. To make this festival of love, colour, and spring even more memorable, Here are some delectable treats from experts to help you celebrate.
Thandai Custard | By Kush Koli, Head Chef, SAGA, Gurugram
Ingredients for the base:
2 cups Parle G
5 tbsp melted butter
For the custard mix:
4tbsp custard powder
3 cup milk
4 tbsp sugar
3 tbsp Thandai powder
1 tbsp Gulkand
3 tbsp Chopped dates
Method:
Crush down the cookies add melted butter to the crushed biscuits and make sure all the crumbs are well coated with butter.
In a mason jar, layer the cookie mix at the bottom, pat the mixture with a spoon, and refrigerate the jars for 10-15 minutes.
In a small bowl combine custard powder and ¾ cup milk. In a saucepan over medium heat add 1 and ¼ cup milk, Thandai powder, Gulkand, and sugar. Bring this to a slight boil and then pour in the custard mixture into the saucepan. Keep whisking till the mixture comes to a boil and becomes thick. Let the custard cool down at room temperature & cover it with a lid.
Once cooled, pour it into the prepared jars and layered with chopped dates.
In a large bowl, whisk condensed milk and castor sugar. Add melted butter to the mixture and whisk well for a minute.
In a small bowl, mix milk with Thandai powder until there are no lumps. Add milk to the condensed milk mixture.
Sieve all the dry ingredients, all-purpose flour, baking powder, and baking soda. Whisk the dry ingredients with the wet ingredients.
Pipe the batter into a cupcake mold and bake at 170°C for 15 to 18 minutes.
Meanwhile, whisk cold heavy whipping cream with Thandai powder until soft peaks refrigerate it.
After the cupcakes have been cooled take the whipping cream in a piping bag and pipe it on top of the cupcakes. Finish it with sliced pistachios and enjoy!
The celebration in Borehamwood began with a prayer service, followed by wonderful performances by young children and inspiring speeches by the Chief Guests…reports Asian Lite News
Hindi Shiksha Parishad UK celebrated Holi & Mother’s Day at Allum Hall, Borehamwood, London with songs/dance and Holi colours. This was the first time ever in Borehamwood that such an event was celebrated in Borehamwood.
The mission of the organisation, started by Smt.Parveen Rani, is to promote Hindi language and Indian culture across the United Kingdom. It firmly believe that everyone should be familiar with their mother tongue and should stay connected to their cultural roots.
The festival Holi marks the arrival of spring and the triumph of good over evil. Children from HSPUK performed well on stage and were praised by the Chief Guests- Dr. Nandita Sahu from High Commission of India, London, Councillor Jeremy Newmark, Councillor Prabhakar Kaza, Councillor Alpha Bird Collins, Professor Jagbir Singh and Mr Kuldeep Ahlawat also graced the occasion .
The celebration in Borehamwood began with a prayer service, followed by wonderful performances by young children and inspiring speeches by the Chief Guests.
“We are thrilled to have brought the festival of Holi to Borehamwood for the first time,” said Parveen Rani, the event’s organiser. “We wanted to share our culture and traditions with the local community and promote understanding and unity.”
The event was a great success, with people from all backgrounds coming together to celebrate the festival. Many attendees said they were impressed by the vibrant colours and the joyous atmosphere.
“I have never experienced anything like this before,” said, a local resident. “It was amazing to see so many people come together and celebrate something so beautiful and joyful.”
The organisers hope that the celebration of Holi will become an annual event in Borehamwood and that it will continue to bring people together and promote cultural exchange and understanding.
Overall, the celebration of Holi in Borehamwood was a colourful and joyous occasion that brought the community together and showcased the richness and diversity of Indian culture.
The event was hosted by Parveen Rani, Tushar Kumar and their team, who worked tirelessly to bring the festival to the community.
Holi’s vibrant colours-pink hands, green cheeks, scarlet on the forehead, and yellow on the nose-would be meaningless without food. To offer you a taste of Holi and a burst of flavours even after the vibrant celebration we’ve included some recipes for delectable foods here…writes Olivia Sarkar
GUJIYA
Ingredients
For Dough:
125 gms Maida (All Purpose Flour)
1/4 cup Water
4 tbsp (20 ml)Oil
For Filling:
1/2 tin milkmaid
1/2 cup Semolina (Suji)
1/4 tsp Elaichi (Cardamom) Powder
2 tbsp Kishmish (Raisins)
2 tbsp Kaju (Cashewnuts)
2 tbsp Chopped Badam (Almonds)
150 gms Fresh Grated Coconut
Method
To make the filling, roast semolina (suji) on low flame till it changes colour. Mix in milkmaid, elaichi powder, raisins, cashewnuts, almonds and grated coconut.
Cook on medium/low flame, stirring occasionally, till the mixture is dry. Divide into 16 portions.
To prepare the dough, pour oil into the maida. Add water and make it into a stiff dough. Knead the dough till pliable. Keep aside covered for 10-15 minutes. Knead dough once again. Divide into 16 balls.
Roll each ball into a flat round. Place one portion of the filling, fold it over and shape it into gujiya sealing the edges with little water. Deep fry in hot oil till golden brown.
To seal use gujiya moulds or press with the ends of a fork or simply twist with your hand.
BHAANG KI PAKORI
Ingredients:
For the batter:
1 cup Chickpea flour
2 tsp Salt
1/2 tsp Turmeric
1/2 tsp Chilli powder
1 tsp Mango powder water
1 tsp Cannabis leaves-ground to a paste
For the pakoras:
Various pieces of vegetables for the batter, optional
125 gram Onions-sliced into thin rounds
125 gram Potatoes into thin rounds
deep-frying Oil
Method:
With the ingredients for the batter, make a batter of dropping consistency.
Adjust the water as required.
Mix the onions and potatoes into the batter and sneak in the ground cannabis leaves paste.
Heat the oil in a kadahi till some batter dropped into the oil comes up at once.
Now scoop the pieces of the vegetable out of the batter and drop them into the hot oil.
Fry over medium heat, to very light brown.
Remove from oil with slotted spoon and set aside.
Continue till all the onions and potatoes are used up.
When ready to serve, heat oil again and fry the pakoras over high heat till golden brown.
Remove from oil, drain on absorbent paper and serve with a green chutney.
APPLE KHEER
Ingredients:
2 Apples
1/2 cup basmati rice, boiled
50 gms nuscovado sugar (you can also use normal sugar)
60 gms cashew nuts and almonds
1 Cassia bark or cinnamon stick
to taste red grapes
Method:
Chop 2 apples in cubes and put them in saffron infused milk.
Cook to slightly soften the apples.
Add 4 tsp brown sugar, 1 cassia bark /cinnamon stick and some cashew nuts and almonds.
Bring it to a slow boil.
After some time add half cup of boiled rice, 2 green cardamoms.
Turn down the heat and let the kheer simmer.
Garnish it with slices of red grapes and serve.
ALMOND MALAI KULFI
Ingredients:
1 Cup almonds (blanched and ground)
1 1/2 cup condensed milk
6 tbsp Cream
15-20 Toasted pistachio, chopped coarsely
1/4 cup Milk
A pinch of Saffron
Method:
In a bowl, blend ground blanched almonds, condensed milk and cream together.
Infuse milk with saffron and add the mix into it.
Toast some pistachio and chop them coarsely. Add pistachio into it and blend them well together.
Set them in a matki and cover it with butter paper.
Refrigerate and serve cold.
Holi specialities.(photo:IANSLIFE)Holi specialities.(photo:IANSLIFE)Holi specialities.(photo:IANSLIFE)
PANEER MALPUA
Ingredients:
100 Gram Paneer, grated
100 Gram Khoya (solidified milk, crumbled)
50 Gram Arrowroot
120 Ml Milk
1/4 tsp Elaichi, powdered
For pan frying Ghee
1 Cup Sugar
120 Ml Water
1/8 tsp Kesar (saffron)
For garnishing Almonds (shredded), blanched
Method:
Place the paneer, khoya, arrowroot and elaichi in a bowl, and beat till smooth.
Mix in enough milk to form a thick smooth batter of dropping consistency.
In a broad pan, dissolve the sugar over low heat in the water, stirring all the time and not letting it come to a boil.
Once it is dissolved increase the heat, add the kesar and let the syrup cook till– a drop on the thumb, pressed with a finger and pulled apart forms a ‘thread’.
Heat the ghee, drop equivalent to a tablespoon of the batter into it, lower the heat to medium and cook till light brown on both sides. Lift out of the fat and drop into the syrup.
Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese on Wednesday visited the Sabarmati Ashram in Ahmedabad and paid tributes to Mahatma Gandhi…reports Asian Lite News
Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese on Wednesday participated in Holi celebrations along with Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel and the Governor of Gujarat Acharya Devvrat at Raj Bhawan in state capital Gandhinagar.
“Honoured to celebrate Holi in Ahmedabad, India. Holi’s message of renewal through the triumph of good over evil is an enduring reminder for all of us”, tweeted Australian PM Anthony Albanese with colourful pictures of Holi celebrations with flowers and colours.
Australian PM Albanese on Wednesday arrived in Ahmedabad, as part of a state visit to India.
The Australian Prime Minister, who will be in India till March 11, was welcomed by the Gujarat chief minister Patel.
Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese on Wednesday visited the Sabarmati Ashram in Ahmedabad and paid tributes to Mahatma Gandhi.
Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel accompanied the Australian PM on his visit to the Ashram. During the visit, Albanese took a complete tour of the Ashram.
The Australian PM, upon his arrival in India, tweeted: “An incredible welcome to Ahmedabad, India. The beginning of an important trip for Australia-India relations.”
#WATCH | Ahmedabad, Gujarat: Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese celebrates Holi with flowers at Raj Bhavan pic.twitter.com/7tRho0A0Uk
Prior to Albanese’s arrival in India, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday said India eagerly awaits the arrival of the Australian Prime Minister. PM Modi said he looks forward to productive deliberations to further India-Australia bilateral relations.”India eagerly awaits your arrival! Looking forward to productive deliberations to further the India-Australia friendship. @AlboMP,” PM Modi tweeted on Wednesday.
Taking to Twitter, Albanese said his trip demonstrates the commitment to deepen the links between the two countries, and to being a force for stability and growth in our region.
Albanese on Wednesday tweeted, “Today I’m bringing a delegation of ministers and business leaders to India. Australia and India have a rich friendship, underpinned by our common interests, our shared democratic values, the bonds between our people, and an affectionate but fierce sporting rivalry.” (ANI)
The traditional Holi spread has long been ruled by thick, creamy, and absolutely delightful Thandai…writes Olivia Sarkar
ROSE NARIYAL THANDAI
Ingredients:
3/4 oz coconut liqueur
2 cups coconut milk
shredded coconut, rose petals, rose water
2 tablespoons of sugar
skinned almonds and cashews
green cardamom, fennel seeds, black peppercorns, coriander seeds
Method:
Soak dry fruits and seeds in rose water for two days prior to preparing this drink
Grind into a fine paste and add in rose petals, desiccated coconut, saffron, and cardamom
Muddle the paste with coconut milk, or use a blender
Shake the syrup with coconut liqueur and ice
Serve it cool with rose petals and coconut flakes
ICE TEA THANDAI
Ingredients:
7 Ground white pepper (Kali mirch)
1 Assam Tea Bags
1/4 cup Almonds (badam) – coarsley crushed
2 tsp Poppy seeds (khus-khus)
1 tsp Fennel seeds (saunf) (crushed coarsely)
1/2 tsp Cardamom (elaichi) powder
Ground sugar
A few Saffron (kesar) strands
Method:
Heat water in a flask and add some Assam tea bags to infuse its flavour in water.
Add 1/4 cup almonds, Khus-Khus, fennel seeds and cardamom in the mixture.
Top it up with kali mirch and ground sugar to taste.
Cool it in the refrigerator, add lot of ice and serve strained.
Place few saffron strands over the drink for flavour and colour. Serve
ALMOND MILK THANDAI
Ingredients:
For the powder mix:
1/2 tsp of cardamom powder or 2-3 green cardamom (elaichi)
2 tsp of poppy seeds (khus khus)
1 tsp of fennel seeds (saunf)
5-6 black peppercorns (kali mirch)
3/4 tsp saffron (kesar) – optional
1 tsp roasted watermelon seeds or sunflower seeds
A pinch of nutmeg – optional
For the drink:
4 cups of almond milk
Seedless Dates/Raw Sugar/Palm Sugar to taste
For garnishing:
Chopped Pistachios
Silver Leaves
Pinch of Saffron
Method:
Take all the ingredients in a grinder and grind really fine.
For a larger batch of the spice mix, dry grind and keep in an airtight container, refrigerated for a few days. You can also alter the quantities to suit your personal taste and preference.
Boil the milk with whichever sugar you are using and few strands of saffron (if using).
Add the ground powder and mix it well. Add more water if needed to get the desired consistency.
Strain the mixture to remove any particles to make a smooth Milk.
Cool and let it refrigerate for a minimum of one hour or even overnight to let the spices infuse in the drink.
Give it a mix before serving. Garnish and serve. If you have rose water or dried crushed rose petals, add some to taste.
Holi special Thandai recipes.(photo:IANSLIFE)Holi special Thandai recipes.(photo:IANSLIFE)Holi special Thandai recipes.(photo:IANSLIFE)Holi special Thandai recipes.(photo:IANSLIFE)
Holi outfits inspired by iconic Bollywood songs.(photo:IANSLIFE)
Wear a pale pink outfit, just like Priyanka, whether you’re celebrating with family, friends, or going to one of the big Holi events in your city. When the DJ says, “Do me a favor, let’s play Holi,” you’ll be wearing the perfect Holi costume…writes Olivia Sarkar
Holi is celebrated with great zeal and excitement by people from all communities and faiths, its a celebration of diversity and unity, celebrating life, love, and joy. The festival has made a special place for itself on celluloid and some of the most iconic Bollywood tracks are on the theme of Holi. Here’s some fashion inspiration drawn from well-known Holi Bollywood numbers for this year’s celebrations.
Ranveer Singh in ‘Ram-Leela’
A dhoti and a blue Badhani shirt spell traditional Rajasthani style. Ranveer elevated his look by adding an open Kedia Kurta and Chelsea boots with a monk strap.
Deepika Padukone in ‘Yeh Jawani Hai Deewani’
Ditch the white and take a lesson from Deepika who chooses to pair her denim shorts with a red shirt, especially if Indian clothing isn’t your thing, and you just want to feel comfortable while wearing bright colours.
Varun Dhawan in ‘Badrinath ki Dulhaniya’
Varun is first seen wearing a short, half-sleeved kurta with a cool bandi, followed by a vest with two layers.
Priyanka Chopra in ‘Waqt’
Wear a pale pink outfit, just like Priyanka, whether you’re celebrating with family, friends, or going to one of the big Holi events in your city. When the DJ says, “Do me a favor, let’s play Holi,” you’ll be wearing the perfect Holi costume.
Dhanush in ‘Raanjhana’
Who says men can’t drape scarves and dupattas. Dhanush’s red chunni with a plain shirt and pants, makes an impacrt. Alia Bhatt in ‘Badrinath Ki Dulhaniya’
The film’s title track, Badrinath Ki Dulhaniya, which is not a Holi tune, features a scene in which Varun Dhawan and Alia Bhatt are having fun with colour. Alia can be seen sporting a vibrant yellow costume that perfectly compliments Holi hues. For a Holi celebration, think about wearing a vivid yellow lehenga and, if you’re feeling up to it, a mangtika.
Holi outfits inspired by iconic Bollywood songs.(photo:IANSLIFE)Holi outfits inspired by iconic Bollywood songs.(photo:IANSLIFE)Holi outfits inspired by iconic Bollywood songs.(photo:IANSLIFE)Holi outfits inspired by iconic Bollywood songs.(photo:IANSLIFE)Holi outfits inspired by iconic Bollywood songs.(photo:IANSLIFE)Holi outfits inspired by iconic Bollywood songs.(photo:IANSLIFE)
Ranbir Kapoor in ‘Yeh Jawaani Hai Deewani’
Ranbir kept it very straightforward and simple — a checked shirt, denims and a bandana.
Akshay Kumar in ‘Jolly LLB2’
A button-down white shirt, a pair of jeans, and some killer-looking sneakers, throws in a punch.
